Family Summer Guide 2013

Family Summer Guide 2 013

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

children’s boutique

Mattick’s Farm’s ne

west arrival is

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ANNUAL SUMMER SALE! Save up to 50% Storewide July 1–15

Beautiful clothes, great shoes and really cool toys!

DOWNTOWN

624 Fort St 250 360 2570

Newborn to 12 Years.

BROADMEAD VILLAGE

777 Royal Oak Dr 250 360 2520

www.scallywags-island.ca

Momease Baby Boutique is a unique retailer specializing in modern, innovative and functional baby gear and parenting accessories. We offer superior customer service, and high-quality products that are sure to help you parent from baby to beyond with style and ease!

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Parksville’s Premiere Event on the Beach!

SCULPTING: July 13 & 14 GATES OPEN: July 13 at 2pm EXHIBITION: July 15 to August 18 Open 9am until 9pm

Quality Foods FOR MORE INFORMATION:

parksvillebeachfest.ca us on Facebook!

FIREWORKS DISPLAY

Saturday August 17, 2013

July 13 August 18, 2013

Contents Welcome............................................................................................3 A Tale of Two Beaches........................................................................4 Hit the Trails......................................................................................6 Natural Wonders of Vancouver Island..............................................10 Photographing Kids.........................................................................12 Duncan Attractions..........................................................................14

CRAFTS, GAMES & FUN IN THE SUN! June 28 to Sept. 2, 2013

Listening Highway...........................................................................16 Gardening with Kids........................................................................18 Must-See Attractions........................................................................20 Seize the Summer Salad Days...........................................................24 Explore & Learn...............................................................................26 Base Camp: Royal BC Museum........................................................27 Summer Calendar of Events.............................................................28 Nanaimo Attractions........................................................................44 Party Directory.................................................................................46 Captivating Critters..........................................................................48 Summer Safety Tips..........................................................................52 As Day Turns to Night.....................................................................53 Family Getaways..............................................................................54 Details, Details.................................................................................56

Family Summer Guide 2013 A special annual edition of Island Parent Magazine. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. No material herein may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher.

Published by Island Parent Group, Suite A-10, 830 Pembroke St, Victoria, BC V8T 1H9; Tel 250-388-6905; Fax 250-388-6920; www.islandparent.ca, www.kidsinvictoria.com

For kids 5 -12 years of age two time slots daily, morning and afternoon

Call 1.888.760.2008 or visit BeachClubBC.com

2  Family Summer Guide

President/Publisher...........................................................Paul Abra Vice-President...................................................................Anna Abra Editor....................................................................................Sue Fast Director, Production Manager.................................... Mada Moilliet

Sales & Marketing.............................................RaeLeigh Buchanan Publisher’s Assistant....................................................... Linda Frear Distribution................................Anna Abra, Ted Dawe (Mid-Island) Production................................................Eacrett Graphic Design

Canada Post: Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement 40051398.

ISSN 0838-5505. Printed in Canada.

Cover photos for this issue were provided by the winners of our annual summer photo contest: Amanda Campbell (grand prize winner), Danielle Harasymow, Leslie Lloyd, Elizabeth Poppe, Temple Purinton, Gord Rufh, Heidi Saufferer and Tannis Shaw. Thank you all for your submissions!

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Welcome to the

Family Summer Guide 2013 T

his summer, make time for fun. Banish “must,” “ought” and “should” from your vocabulary. Stress less and savour more. Rip up your never-ending To-Do list—unless it looks something like this…

Play outside.

Hike a shady trail.

Ride your (decorated) bike.

Splash at the beach.

Pick berries.

Have a car wash.

Toss water balloons.

Run through the sprinkler.

Make lemonade—from scratch.

Read good books. Aloud. And together.

Laugh. Lots.

Work less. Play more.

Unplug.

Lie in the grass and watch the clouds.

Sleep outside—in a tent, under a tarp, on the porch.

Toss a Frisbee.

Bathe the dog.

Float on an airmattress.

No matter what you have planned this summer—or what just happens—we hope this year’s Family Summer Guide will help you have the best summer ever. Within these pages you’ll find information on numerous Vancouver Island attractions, places to stay and explore, tips on how to take great summer photos, walking trails suited to families, places to see animals, good summer audio books for Island road trips, kid-friendly gardening ideas, and much more.

There are details on Duncan, and notes on Nanaimo. You’ll learn about the Island’s

natural wonders and the differences between marine life at rocky shores vs. sandy beaches.

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.

There’s a more detailed version on our website, and we’ll update our online calendar as new listings come in (visit www.islandparent.ca or www.kidsinvictoria.com).

With so many great options just outside our doorsteps, having nothing to do this summer will be a luxury—one worth making time for.

Have fun exploring the Island. And last on the To-Do list but not least…

Have a happy, relaxing summer.

Summer learning camps… find the clues...learn where those words and numbers hide.... create your own kit-bag of games and strategies!

Math and language arts options available the weeks of August 12–16 and August 19–23 Sidney, Victoria and the Westshore Call 250-388-7225 for information about camp schedules and our remedial services

www.readsociety.bc.ca

www.IslandParent.ca

Summer 2013 3

Tina Kelly

A Tale of Two Beaches Nursery to High School in a

vibrant island community, abundant with the arts, surrounded by organic farms and endless outdoor adventures.

Discover the Cowichan Warmland

T

he beach, the quintessential summer destination for lounging, reading, picnicking, swimming, castle building and for some, even swimming, but for those of us with inquisitive minds and a love of nature, the beach is also for learning and exploring.

If you’ve visited the same beach multiple times, you may have noticed that the amount of exposed shoreline varies. The area between the highest high-tide and the lowest low-tide is referred to as the intertidal zone. Animals found in this zone face the challenges of wave action, heat from the sun and exposure to land predators, but special adaptations enable them to survive here. Great news for us—we get a chance to observe a variety of marine life without donning scuba gear!

They may live permanently buried or burrow in response to a receding tide. By carefully digging in the sand, you may find worms, sand dollars, moon snails, ghost shrimp and a multitude of bivalve species— clams, cockles and geoducks.

In areas where depressions hold water, look for fish. Sand soles and staghorn sculpins are coloured to camouflage with the sand. Hiding in the sand doesn’t guarantee survival, though—many bird species are particularly proficient at hunting during low-tide. Observe shore birds probing the sand with their beaks.

Sandy Beach Safety If you don’t want your flip-flops swallowed by the imaginary mud monster, leave them at home or at high-tide. Bare feet are risky with the

Established in 1980, Sunrise Waldorf School is located in the Cowichan Valley, 45 min North of Victoria on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.

Elementary School |Preschool| Parent Child at the Main Campus 4344 Peters Rd Duncan BC sunrisewaldorfschool.org Tel. 250-743-7253 High School at the Island Oak Campus 5814 Banks Rd Duncan BC islandoak.org Tel. 250-701-0400 4 Family Summer Guide

Each beach, however, is not created equal.

Geologically speaking, we can divide beaches into two broad categories—sandy and rocky— and the flora and fauna assemblages in these two habitats are as varied as the substrate themselves.

presence of broken shells, so the best footwear is good old-fashioned gumboots, water socks (formerly known as reef shoes) or waterproof secure-fitting sandals. Pay attention to the incoming tide or risk swimming back to shore from a stranded sand bar.

Sandy Beaches

Suggested Sandy Bays

When the tide is out, sandy beaches may better be described as muddy, mucky or even flip-flop eaters. Sandy beaches may also appear devoid of life. But take a closer look—the animals here are simply adept at burrowing.

Patricia Bay, North Saanich Sidney Spit, Sidney Island Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park, Metchosin Bamberton Provincial Park, Mill Bay Miracle Beach Provincial Park, Comox Valley www.kidsinvictoria.com

Rocky Shorelines On the rugged west coast, rocky shorelines are common and offer a very different collection of species than sandy beaches. With no place to burrow, the animals here are adapted to “stay put” should a wave or a predator attempt to dislodge them. Animals such as barnacles and mussels have permanent homes, while others— snails, limpets, chitons and seastars—have a foot, or feet, to grip temporarily. Intertidal inhabitants also need to avoid dessication, so these animals often have a hard shell, hide under moist seaweed, or situate themselves in cracks, crevices or pools where water remains when the tide goes out. Under rocks or seaweed, or in tidepools, you’ll find sea anemones, seastars, tidepool sculpins, pricklebacks, shore crabs, sea urchins, sea cucumbers and sea slugs.

Rocky Shoreline Safety Along a rocky shore, you don’t risk losing a shoe so much as losing your footing. To avoid slipping and sliding your way to an injury, choose proper fitting footwear with a good tread. Closed toe and heal shoes are recommended; when exposed toes face off against barnacles, the resulting score is always barnacles, 1, toes, 0. Due to slippery slopes and slimy seaweed, plan to be hands-free.

Carry guidebooks, camera, journal, snacks and other belongings in a back pack, leaving your arms available for stabilizing in the event of a tumble. Consider a walking stick to help with your balance.

If exploring rocky beaches along the outer coast of Vancouver Island, keep your eye on the ocean—waves can be unpredictable.

Suggested Rocky Shorelines Harling Point, Oak Bay Macaulay Point, Esquimalt Arbutus Point, Portland Island East Point, Saturna Island Botanical Beach Provincial Park, Port Renfrew Our own safety isn’t the only concern. To minimize any negative impact we may have on the animals and their habitat, follow these do’s: • DO watch where you step. Shells and exoskeletons may protect beach dwellers from their usual threats, but they can’t hold up to the weight of our human body.

• DO touch gently. Seastars are often damaged by explorers eager to hold them; unfortunately, a seastar’s incredible strength may result in the seastar in your hand and their feet still left behind on the rock.

Early education meets the great outdoors.

• DO place animals back where and as you found them. An animal adapted to living at low-tide cannot survive the exposure if left at high-tide.

• DO leave only footprints and take only pictures. Empty shells provide habitat for many other species and the broken down shells return nutrients to the ecosystem.

• DO gently place rocks back as you found them. The same holds true for seaweed and sand; if you dig a hole, fill it back in. All of these act as shelter, so leaving animals exposed risks their survival.

• DO pick up any man-made materials or garbage you find and dispose of it responsibly.

For tidal heights, visit tides.gc.ca. CRD Parks (www.crd.bc.ca/parks), Provincial Parks (www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks) and Federal Parks (www.pc.gc.ca) are ours to discover.

Challenge yourself to explore three new beaches this summer.

Happy low-tide exploring!

Tina Kelly is the Visitor Experience Director at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre. As a child she spent hour after hour exploring Cordova Bay.

INNOVATIVE LEARNING AT SMS: PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN

Your daughter’s curiosity will be piqued by our natural campus.

Our innovative Outdoor While Learning program takes full advantage of our incomparable west coast setting. Girls are immersed in play-based learning complimented by specialist instruction to build confidence & discover new skills. Register now.

ST. M ARGARET’S SCHOOL Confident girls. Inspiring women.

SMS_July-Aug_b&w.indd 1

www.IslandParent.ca

250-479-7171 | www.stmarg.ca

6/7/2013 5:24:55 PM

Summer 2013 5

Hit the Trails

Hiking and cycling trails, paths, walkways: a few of Vancouver Island’s many offerings

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 www.crd.bc.ca/parks or www.vancouverisland.com/trails.

Greater Victoria

Sidney

Beacon Hill Park. This 74-hectare park near downtown Victoria offers trails that meander through meadows, gardens and trees, along with a petting zoo, an 18-hole putting green (bring your own clubs and balls), wading pool 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 the bridge, through beautiful gardens, and see one of the world’s tallest free-standing totem poles (38.9 metres). The Cameron Bandshell features a variety of free concerts during the summer (www.victoria.ca/ cityvibe). www.beaconhillpark.ca.

Galloping Goose Regional Trail. This 55-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.

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: www.crd.bc.ca/ parks, then select “Find a Park.”

Sidney Spit Marine Park is a great destination for a day trip. Take the foot-passenger 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. Walkin camping is also available for those who want to stay longer. The ferry leaves from Beacon Pier at the bottom of Beacon Avenue. For a day trip, head over on the 10am or 11:30am run, and return at 3pm or 4:30pm (or at 6pm on Fridays and Saturdays) from June 27-Sept 5. For the full schedule and rates, visit www. alpinegroup.ca (and look under “Our Companies”) 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. To download a trail map or to check out the various programs for kids and families, call 250-479-0211 or visit swanlake.bc.ca for info.

6 Family Summer Guide

Metchosin/Sooke Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park in Metchosin. More than 5 kms of beautiful trails run through woodland, past lagoon and marsh.

Keep your eyes open 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 skim boarders, beachcombers and swimmers alike. The Nature House at the trailhead has some great hands-on displays. Approximately 40 minutes from downtown Victoria, on Metchosin Road. www.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. www.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 1 hour driving time from Victoria. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Along Highway 1 Francis King Regional Park is 107 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 on Saturdays, Sundays and holiday Mondays noon-4pm for some interesting displays. Located on Munn Road, off Prospect Lake Road, 13 kms out of downtown Victoria. www.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 quite crowded in the summer. If you have a canoe, try an early morning or evening paddle. From the Old Island Highway, turn right on Six Mile Road which leads to the park entrance. Pay parking: $2.25 for the day or $20 for the season. www. 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 www.naturehouse.ca.

Cowichan Valley High above the Koksilah River, the historic Kinsol Trestle offers a spectacular recreational route to hikers, runners, cyclists and horseback riders. Its 44-metre-high, 187-metre-long walkway connects the village of Shawnigan Lake and the District of North Cowichan. www.kidsinvictoria.com

The original structure was completed in 1920, and after being abandoned for years, the trestle was rehabilitated in 2010/2011. It is one of the largest timber bridges in the world and is an official segment of the Trans Canada Trail. Enjoy the fabulous views and this part of Canadian history. From Renfrew Road at Shawnigan Lake, turn onto Glen Eagles Road, then right onto Shelby Road. There’s a small parking area on the left. For more information, visit tctrail.ca and click on the Featured button on Vancouver Island to find out about the Cowichan Valley Trail and Kinsol Trestle.

Cedar Hemer Provincial Park is located on Holden Lake southeast of Nanaimo. There is a network of shady forested trails, including a main trail running alongside the lake and a bird viewing platform overlooking a marsh, approximately 1 km from the parking lot. You may see various types of ducks, Trumpeter swans, Bald eagles, turkey vultures, frogs hiding among the lilypads, and heron. From Cedar Road follow the signs to the park entrance.

Cable Bay Trail leads down through the cool forest to the ocean. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the mossy rocks and watch for sea lions. The beach is sandstone and is under water when the tide is in. Two kms of well-maintained trail is fairly steep on the way back up, so make sure young hikers don’t use up all their energy at the shore. Off Holden Corso Road (which becomes Barnes Road); watch for the sign.

This is a popular trail for dog walkers, but it doesn’t tend to be crowded.

Nanaimo Buttertubs Marsh Bird Sanctuary encompasses 49 acres of natural wetlands and grasslands. The 2.4-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 or bicycles allowed. 1780 Jingle Pot Road.

Pipers Lagoon Park past Departure Bay off Hammond Bay Road is a great place to walk, beachcomb, fly a kite or have a picnic.

An isthmus extends out to a rocky headland, and twisting trails lead to seaside lookouts.

Spread your picnic blanket on the sandy beach or play Frisbee or Bocce on the field.

The lagoon is home to a variety of seabirds, including sandpipers, loons, kingfishers, oyster catchers, horned grebes and great blue herons.

Neck Point Park is a short distance past Pipers Lagoon. This oceanside park includes www.IslandParent.ca

Summer 2013 7

&

forest, beaches, rocky cliffs and lookouts. Explore the various trails criss-crossing the park, watch the boats at sea, do some beachcombing, and just enjoy the sea breezes and sparkling water. To access the park, go along Hammond Bay Road, past the turn-off to Pipers Lagoon, then turn onto Morningside Drive.

Oceanside The Top Bridge Trail in Parksville links Rathtrevor Beach with Top Bridge Mountain Bike Park on the scenic Englishman River.

The trail winds through public and private property, with a number of access points (a local favourite is at Industrial Way and Tuan Road). Enter from the Chattell Road trailhead and you’ll be at the suspension bridge over the river. The Information Centre at the south end of town will provide directions.

Craig’s Crossing (south of Parksville) to Long Beach

The place online where parents and grandparents get information about their community for their family: Read current and past issues of Island Parent Magazine.

Visit our Marketplace to find businesses, programs and services that cater to the little person in your life.

Looking for that special something you had when you were a kid? Check out our classified ads.

Want to see what’s up today or this weekend?

View our calendar of events.

Whether it’s dance lessons, parenting workshops, fun days and festivals, what’s happening at your local rec centre or community events—Kids In Victoria has it all!

Maybe you are looking for something to engage your mind or perhaps need a little bit of advice. Well we have that too on our community forum.

Receive Island Parent & Kids In Victoria e-newsletter for updates and exclusive contests.

You can also enter our monthly and photo contests.

Come be part of our community at

www.kidsinvictoria.com

8 Family Summer Guide

Cathedral Grove - MacMillan Park is a dayuse 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 Falls 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, millions of 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 3 kms northwest of the Ucluelet-Tofino-Port Alberni Junction to find out about trails, beaches, eateries and activities.

The Wild Pacific Trail in Pacific Rim Park. Follow the cliff edges along the extreme outer coast, including the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse site. You’ll be able to view the ocean’s fury from the protection of the trail and from viewing platforms situated at the best headlands along the route. You’ll also be awed by the gigantic nurse-logs, raised root systems, mosses, fungi, lichens and ferns. The trail is presently divided into three sections: Lighthouse Loop, Big Beach and Brown’s Beach.

Lighthouse Loop, Phase I of the Wild Pacific Trail is 2.5 kms long and can be walked in a 30-45 minute loop using the adjoining www.kidsinvictoria.com

He-Tin-Kis Park boardwalk. The trail is wide enough for 2-3 people to walk side by side.

Includes frequent viewpoints and benches for watching whales, birds or catching the sunset.

For maps and descriptions of the various sections, visit www.wildpacifictrail.com.

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 4.2km Loop Trail has been upgraded to allow for wheelchairs. It meanders through sub-alpine meadows, and is suitable for all ages. The walk takes about 1.5 hours to complete. You might see 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 and mini golf.

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. Make sure to protect your lunch from the Gray Jay birds.

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 Heritage Lodge and 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.

No one is too cool for Summer Hockey School • Our hockey camps run on passion for the game combined with professional coaching for kids of all ages and abilities.

• We offer the smallest group size and most hours of ice time than any other school!

• We have partnered with Sportball for hockey specific cross training to provide a FUN and varied experience for our little players.

• Bantam/Midget Players: Are you prepared for next season? Our training camps with Trent Brandvold will get you fired up and ready for tryouts in September.

• Happy. Hungry. Tired. Stronger. Our promise to you.

Call or see website:

250-590-7811

icevictoria.ca

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 well-signed). The trail is 4 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.• www.IslandParent.ca

Summer 2013 9

Island Rhythmic Gymnastics Club

Rachel Dunstan Muller

Natural Wonders of Vancouver Island

O

Do you have a little girl who likes to dance, jump and juggle?

Register her for a class at Island Rhythmics!

ne of my goals as a parent is to give my children an appreciation of the natural world. It’s not hard to do on Vancouver Island—we’re surrounded by wonders at every turn. In fact we’re so spoiled that it’s easy to take our bounty for granted.

Before we had children, my husband and I often picked up backpacking hitchhikers.

Many of these backpackers were from other parts of the world. Though we’d lived on the West Coast for most of our lives, our passengers

tions for abundant intertidal life. Sidney Spit (a tiny island off of Sidney) has great snorkeling.

And for intrepid explorers willing to brave the elements, the rugged beaches of Cape Scott Provincial Park on the northern tip of the Island are said to be unforgettable.

Did you know that Vancouver Island is home to one of the finest hot springs in Canada? Hot Springs Cove in Maquinna Provincial Park is accessible from Tofino by boat (you can book a one-hour water taxi ride), or by air. Imagine

had often explored more of the Island than we had. It was always fascinating to hear about the places they’d been, and we vowed that we would follow their example and visit as many of the Island’s special sites as we could.

More than two decades have passed since we made that pledge, and we’ve barely scratched the surface. There’s just so much to see and do! This summer I’ve decided to get more systematic in my approach. To that end I’ve compiled a bucket list of local wonders.

With over 3,400 kilometres of coastline, Vancouver Island has a lot of spectacular beaches. The warm, shallow waters of Rathtrevor Beach are perfect for budding sandcastle architects. Long Beach (just south of Tofino) is a great place for beachcombing, wave watching and surfing, as are many of the less frequented beaches of Pacific Rim National Park. For breathtaking sunsets, I’m told that you can’t beat Pachena Bay near Bamfield. East Sooke Park and Botanical Beach both have reputa-

the luxury of soaking in a natural mineral steam bath, with a mountain looming above and old growth forest all around. There are a few camping options, and the Hesquiat First Nations offer accommodation at a nearby lodge. The cove is an extremely popular destination; for a quieter experience, postpone your visit until the fall or winter.

The big trees of our Island are legendary—people come from all over the world to see them. Some of the most accessible giant Douglas firs are in Cathedral Grove, on the Alberni Highway. The most ancient are over 800 years old, and the largest is more than nine meters in circumference. Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park offers a more remote old growth experience. The interconnected valleys offer sanctuary to some of the largest spruce trees in the world (up to 95-plus metres high), as well as some hill-hugging ancient cedars estimated to be more than 1,000 years old. But come prepared—we had two flat tires on the rough

Classes for girls 3 and up Contact us to register for our fall session

www.islandrhythmics.com 250-514-6761

Performing Arts School since 1980

ch o o l S e r P r e S umm C l a s spe s & s p m a C u Da n c e nths and for ages

15 mo

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 10 Family Summer Guide

www.kidsinvictoria.com

logging road as we travelled back from the Carmanah last summer. For more information on the big trees of Vancouver Island (and where to find them), visit vancouverislandbigtrees. blogspot.ca.

Trees aren’t the only things towering over us—we also have our own mountain range.

How high do you want to climb? I have my eye on Mt. Arrowsmith, near Port Alberni. At over 1,800 metres it’s the highest mountain on the south Island, and is accessible by several technical (ropes-required) and at least one nontechnical route. But the Island offers countless other slopes for all endurance and skill levels.

The Vancouver Island Trails Information Society has published three invaluable books with comprehensive mountain (and lowland) trail info. Hiking Trails I, II, and III are available through the library.

For a completely different nature experience, why not go underground? Vancouver Island is a caving mecca—we have the highest concentration of caves in North America.

More than a thousand have been recorded to date, and many more still await discovery.

The Horne Lake Caves Outdoor Centre is the perfect place to go for a safe, family-friendly introduction to the hidden wonders of the underground world.

The Island provides a habitat for some remarkable wildlife. My children will never forget the first time they activated bioluminescent phytoplankton by trailing their fingers in the ocean on a moonless summer night. It was a magical experience. They have more frequent access to tidal pools, but a good one can still captivate them for hours. We look for otters, seals, and other marine mammals whenever we’re on the water. We’re much less eager to see the Island’s cougars, bears and wolves in their natural habitat! The North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre in Parksville is a great place for safe and ethical wildlife viewing. The population fluctuates as orphaned or injured animals are brought in, and rehabilitated animals are released. You can expect to see an assortment of creatures including eagles, owls, ravens, ferrets and at least one resident bear.

Visit www.niwra.org for current information.

This list is just the beginning, of course.

It’s a big Island, and there are endless things for families to see and do. The library has a great collection of local guide books with lots of ideas for summer travels. Happy exploring!

Rachel Dunstan Muller is the mother of five, and the author of Squeeze, (Orca Book Publishers, 2010), a caving adventure set on Vancouver Island.

www.IslandParent.ca

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Photographing Kids

Best of y a w d a o BrJunior Camp 4 to 6 years July 8 – 12 & Aug 19 – 23

y a w d a o r B d n o y e B and

As parents, we all want “perfect” photos of our kids. But rather than posing kids

and telling them to say “cheese” for the camera, try to capture genuine moments as they are happening. It’s so much more fun and fulfilling looking back at “real” photos that capture your kids as they are, rather than a posed shot that says nothing about the personality of your child.

Konul Rosario • The Light Within Photography • www.thelightwithinphoto.com (Victoria)

Michelle Loewen • Michelle Loewen Photography • www.figandclover.ca

Mainstage Camp 7 to 14 years July 8 – 12 & Aug 19 – 23

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

There is something truly magical

Email: langford@stagecoachschools.ca

about being able to capture children in play that freezes the moment and allows the viewer of the photo to be present in the story. Just as the gift of storytelling or writing must be cultivated and practiced, the gift of photographic storytelling can also be practiced. Here are a few simple tips.

• Capture authentic emotions; these are the key to storytelling.

• Be candid, so you allow for spontaneity and the emotions to be real.

• Take pictures often; the more you do the more creative you will become and the more natural it will feel to be taking photos.

• Use natural light; soft indirect or at dusk. It will make your photos more interesting, I promise.

Michelle Loewen • Michelle Loewen Photography • www.figandclover.ca (Victoria)

12

Family Summer Guide

Konul Rosario • The Light Within Photography • www.thelightwithinphoto.com

Getting kids to sit still for a photograph is about as easy as putting boots on a snake. So don’t even bother trying. Instead, take the advice of five talented Vancouver Island photographers— Sheri Jackson, Michelle Loewen, Ute Muller, Konul Rosario and Erin Wallis—and you’ll be taking top-notch shots in no time.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

How many times have you said to yourself, “I

Sheri Jackson Photography • www.sherijackson.ca

wish I had half their energy?”

Kids are movers and shakers! It’s no wonder they can be a challenge to photograph. If you can’t beat them, join them. Let them be silly! The image of the children jumping is a perfect fun-in-the-sun summer photograph.

Simply have your children stand still, focus on their faces and count to three! When they jump on three, you take the shot. Remember to have lots of light or flash for this image so as to avoid low shutter speeds which would cause the children to look blurred. Have fun with it!

Sheri Jackson • Sheri Jackson Photography • www.sherijackson. ca (Nanaimo)

Everyone should have great photos of their kids. Here are 5

Erin Wallis Photography • www.erinwallis.com

tips to hopefully help get better photos of your own small treasures.

1. Connect with them first. Let them forget that you have a camera in your hand—however, have it ON and in your hand.

Don’t make a big deal out of “taking photos.” Make it fun. Sing songs, play games and connect first. Shoot next.

2. Keep your camera somewhere that is easily accessible, with charged batteries and a memory card in it. You are far more likely to take photos if your camera is ready and accessible.

3. Get down on their level. Lie on the floor, crouch, squat.

4. Put a cute outfit on your kids and go for an outdoor photo adventure (even in your backyard). Explore the beach or pick flowers.

5. Delete the bad shots and back everything up on either DVDs or an external hard drive.

Erin Wallis • Erin Wallis Photography • www.erinwallis.com (Campbell River)

Ute Muller • Fotoart Photography • www.fotoartphotography.net

Let details tell the story. I love photographing

www.IslandParent.ca

details. Details can tell a story or complement a story.

When you are taking your family pictures this year, don’t forget to include all the little things that catch your children’s eyes. The little rock or shell they find on the beach. Let them hold up the shell and just zoom into the shell and make it a macro shot. Take a picture of the sandcastle they built all afternoon. Take a quick shot of the toys spread all over the beach, but don’t make it look cluttered. Have them running away from you, and just capture their legs or have them out of focus. The little details are everywhere, just keep looking for them.

Ute Muller • Fotoart Photography • www.fotoartphotography. net (Victoria)

Summer 2013

13

Downtown Duncan this Summer Walk-able, warm sunny days and mild evenings in Downtown Duncan. The perfect place to enjoy your summer with so many things to see, hear and do downtown this season: Experience a free Totem Tour with Ron, our expert guide, who involves his love of arts and culture in recounting the First Nations family’s stories, preserved within the carvings of the totem poles.

When Ron is otherwise engaged in a tour, there are new interpretative signs for the City of Totems’ outdoor art gallery. They not only document the stories of the carvers, but prevent the loss of cultural knowledge and add to the community archives.

Further history can also easily be found in The Cowichan Valley Museum, and in our additional outdoor alley exhibits of Duncan’s China Town and Duncan’s V.I. Enjoy lunch, dinner, ‘bevvies’ or treats from one of 25 unique eateries, including cafés, outdoor patios, a Brew Pub, cozy or upscale restaurants and a Wine Bar. There really is something for everyone, and each of their pocketbooks. *Look for our upcoming passports to Dine in Downtown Duncan, with incredible prize packages for eager foodie participants.

14

Family Summer Guide

www.kidsinvictoria.com

+ 6 > 5 ; 6 > 5

/,(9; 6- *6>0*/(5 And of course, if shopping is what drives you into our beautiful downtown, visit our independently owned businesses offering a wide variety of galleries, boutiques, specialty or contemporary shops, consignment stores, and thrift shops.

How about finding those new furnishings, flooring, appliances, artwork and household items for that house redesign you’ve been thinking about, or just curling up with a new book you’ve been dying to read…we really do have it all in the heart of Cowichan.

If all this walking has your toes screaming for a pedicure, try one of downtown Duncan’s many salons and spas, to show off those new sandals you’ve just picked up from Cardino’s Shoes. If the kids are needing some playtime, pop into The Red Balloon for a toy and spend the afternoon splashing around in the water park and the playground at Centennial Park!

Come Eat! Shop! Play! Experience all that Downtown Duncan has to offer!

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Summer 2013

15

Uminari Taiko Children Summer Taiko Camp

Paisley Aiken

Listening Highway A

Sundays July 7 to Aug 11 2:15 – 3:15pm (5 sessions) Gordon Head Recreation Centre Boys & Girls ages 7 to 12 Cost: $54 (Early Bird rate of $49 if registered before June 23)

Have your child experience first hand the power and fun of Japanese Taiko drumming.

They will be taught proper drumming technique, rhythms and simple drumming pieces.

The kids will gain eye-hand coordination, concentration skills and teamwork ads they learn to perform in a group ensemble.

For more information or to register go to

www.uminaritaiko.com

s the long, hot days of summer stumble upon us, many families hit the highway en route to lakes, campsites, cabins, mountains and friends. Here in British Columbia we are blessed with endless options for outdoor summer fun. But the hours getting there and back can be challenging with vans full of hot squirmy kids and the threat of traffic delays.

Although there are now hand-held entertainment systems and built-in automobile video systems to while away the hours, many kids get sick using them on the windy roads, and those that don’t miss the opportunity to peer out the window at the awe-inspiring scenery. As an alternative, we introduced books on audio to our boys at a very young age. This way we can dream out the window and share in a story together. (For families with kids under six, I recommend going to the library and getting a stack of shorter stories that will get them used to listening on the road). Most of these books can be found on iTunes or amazon, and a couple are available in audio from the library.

The following are some of our family favourites and are all focused on protagonists (usually children) who find themselves on great adventures in forests, mountains and other mystical places.

These stories are perfect for inspiring your “listeners” to explore their own backyards and dream up their own magical experiences as they peer out at the majestic mountains rolling by.

The BoxCar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner, read

by Phyllis Newman. This is a gentle, timeless story about four siblings who run away after the death of their parents, trying to escape the custody of their grandfather. The kids look after each other, find food, do odd jobs and learn how to be resourceful and independent. Originally written in 1942, it is an old-fashioned read that is sweet and tender and will easily engage kids ready to listen to chapter books. They will be dreaming up their own little boxcar homes in the woods as you go.

1

The Adventures of Sir Lancelot the Great, by Gerald Morris, read by Steve West. This is a fun read that will have kids and adults chuckling their way along the windy roads.

Gerald Morris introduces the leg- ends of Camelot and the Round Table with a swift pace and just the right dose of silly to keep all ages engaged. Sir Lancelot loves adventure and finds himself in the most precarious of situations, such as being shot in the butt by an arrow and participating in a tournament on a pillow to

2

16

Family Summer Guide

ease his wound, or being held hostage by four queens. He scours the countryside seeking new thrills and challenges, using his skill, wit and strong character to navigate his way through it all. Appropriate for ages 4-13.

The Hatchet by Gary Paulsen, read by Peter Coyote. This may just be our family’s all-time favourite. There wasn’t a single word spoken in our five-hour car ride as we listened to this well-read version of the story of a young boy who, en route to visiting his father in Northern Canada in a small two-seater plane, crashes after the pilot has a heart seizure. Exciting, intense and full of suspense, this is the perfect story for any kid who dreams of wilderness survival or considers themselves a naturalist.

Using just a hatchet, the boy finds inventive ways to survive and overcome the isolation and wildness of the remote Canadian North.

Although it isn’t frightening, there is a small sub-plot about the boy’s mother who has had an affair that may make it a mature listen for some kids. For this reason I would recommend it for kids over 8 (but you use your discretion) right up to adults.

3

www.kidsinvictoria.com

King of the Cloud Forest, written and read by Michael Morpurgo. For those of you who haven’t yet discovered Michael Morpurgo, you are in for a treat! I could focus an entire article on the best of his work, but for now I’ll draw your attention to King of the Cloud Forest, which is less intense than some of his other historical fiction and appropriate for the entire family. Read by the author, who is also a very talented orator, the tale begins in a mission tucked away in the Chinese mountains just as pressure from Japanese attacks mounts.

But the story very quickly becomes immersed in myth and legend as the hero, a young boy, finds himself alone and on the brink of despair in the snowy mountains when a community of yetis rescues him. These creatures soon become his friends, but the boy struggles with his role in his adopted community and must decide whether to stay in their comfort or try to find his way home. Suspenseful with incredible description and well developed characters, I can’t imagine anyone not enjoying this! Ages 6-15.

4

Zorgamazu, by Paul Weston, read by Alan Cumming. My eldest son was adamant that he would not listen to a book in rhyme. This, he believed, would be babyish and far beneath his reading level. Yet within minutes he was hooked. The entire novel is in rhyme and absolutely begs to be listened to, not read silently. The story is wonderful, with quirky playful characters starting with Katrina Kartell, the heroine, who in an attempt to escape her evil guardian meets Morty, a “zorgle” who is trying to find the missing zorgles of Zorgamazu. The two of them set off together into the realms of unchartered lands. There are a few gruesome parts and characters (such as the evil guardian who is trying to have a lobotomy performed on Katrina) that are reminiscent of certain Roald Dahl characters, but the story is absolutely delightful and absorbing and is a pleasure to listen to. Recommended for ages 6-13.

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Paisley Aiken reads extensively to her three energetic young boys. She is founder of The Story Studio Writing Society, a charity that grows kids’ relationship with literacy.

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Summer 2013

17

Sarah Platenius

It’s In Our Nature.

Gardening With Kids 15 fun things to do in your backyard

E

Stay on the trails to keep our regional parks lush and thriving with life. Find more ways to nurture nature by visiting www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY:

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Pick up YOUR copy of ATTRACTIONS, ACTIVITIES & FAMIL

Y FUN!

nter a garden with kids: little fingers dig and pick. Potatoes have eyes. Worms are pets.

Snacks are self-serve. Plants are pulled, moved, swapped. Soil is heaved and hoed. Seeds are tucked in. Big questions are asked and simple answers are grasped like: What happens when we die? How are seeds made? Where does rain come from?

A garden is an intriguing place where a child can mingle and connect firsthand with the ways in which the natural world unfolds. Children learn about soil nutrients, plant identification, life cycles, and healthy food. Perhaps less obvious but just as important, is a garden’s sense of beauty, relaxation and play, which allows a child to soften and connect mind with body with nature.

Enter a garden with kids and it becomes an enchanting playground. Kids are naturally at home in the backyard; take their lead. Squeals of delight accompany the smallest things—a pumpkin seedling poking its head through the soil, a butterfly flying into a child’s net, a bucket filling up with rain.

The backyard offers parents a chance to be attentive and available for their child—sharing in the joys of mucky feet and a whistle made from a blade of grass. At the same time we can learn to be respectful of a child’s sense of independence, particularly when a youngster has her own plot in the garden. If you’re a parent, this is code language that translates to this joyous fact: a garden is a place where kids can play on their own while you get some of your own tasks accomplished.

Here are some activities that my kids and their friends have enjoyed in our backyard garden. If you don’t have a garden, a park will do. Or an overgrown alley, or a deck with some flower pots, or a neighbour’s yard. Just remember, kids usually come up with the best ideas on their own.

1. Order a batch of live ladybugs for kids to release. Visit www.thebuglady.ca.

2. Collect and paint special stones and pieces of wood to identify a patch of garden that belongs to a kid. Use an acrylic water-based paint. Optional: an adult can spray them with a sealant afterwards to make them waterproof.

3. Lie in a patch of grass and look for a four-leaf clover.

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18

Family Summer Guide

4. Make a teepee out of alder or willow poles and plant beans around it for kids to hide in.

5. Provide a plot of soil and a cup of seeds for kids to plant and look after themselves. As Ron Finley, a guerilla gardener in South Central L.A. says, “If kids grow kale, kids eat kale.”

6. Turn a tree stump into a fairy home by painting shells or rocks to decorate its entrance.

Collect flower petals in a basket to lay out into a spiral or to make the fairy’s path. www.kidsinvictoria.com

13. Encourage a child to “feed” the compost by adding shredded paper, cardboard, eggshells, kitchen food scraps, kelp, and leaves.

14. Set up a weather station (a thermometer, bucket and wind sock will do). Conduct some weather experiments.

15. Make cards. Use a basket to collect leaves.

Place the leaves on a piece of paper and use crayons to color over the tops of the leaves.

Remove the leaves and admire the designs!

7. Designate a “pottery garden” where kids can place pieces of colourful household dishes that have broken.

8. Send a kid off with a salad bowl to pick greens, herbs and flowers—point out edibles in the garden as soon as your child seems interested. (Be sure to mention that some plants are not to be eaten and that they must check with an adult first.)

9. Make flower or herb essences using a potato masher, sieve and mixing bowl—save old cosmetic or spice jars for the essence water. Or make fresh tea with herbs and throw a tea party.

10. Make a magic flower wand with a stick

Sarah Platenius is a backyard gardener, artisan and a mother of two. Visit her website at www. tofinocottagegarden.com. from the forest. Use ribbon to tie flowers onto the end of it.

11. On a rainy day, fill buckets with rainwater and play with old PVC pipes, funnels and straws.

12. Let a child make a temporary home for “pets” they find in the garden (salamanders, slugs, cabbage worms, butterflies, earthworms). Be sure to let the child know that they will have to release the pet within a specific amount of time back to its real home. If you collect cabbage worms, keep them in a container with a piece of kale and wait to release them when they turn into white butterflies.

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Summer 2013 19

Must-See Attractions Maybe you want to play tourist in your own town or show your visiting relatives the sights. Maybe you want to learn something new or keep the kids occupied on a rainy day. There are lots of reasons to check out the following attractions on the Island.

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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 26th annual TD Art Gallery Paint-In (Saturday, July 20) for Victoria’s favourite outdoor studio along Moss Street from the gallery to the ocean. Over 100 invited painters, printmakers, sculptors, potters and other artists from the region will demonstrate their artistic process. 11am-5pm. Gallery open 10am-6pm. Food & Beverage Garden 11am9pm. Dancing to Kumbia 5-9pm. www.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 June 15-Sept 6, 9am-7pm. www.craigdarrochcastle. com or 250-592-5323.

The Gorge Waterway Nature House in Esquimalt-Gorge (Kinsmen) Park is newly renovated! Come visit our interactive touchtank and get up close and personal with local marine life. There are lots of other activities including a watershed model, crafts, games, and locally relevant displays. From birdwatching to trying your hand at water sampling, there is something for everyone. We are open every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 10am-4pm, June 15-August 31. Admission by donation. Specialized education programs available. 250-380-7585.

IMAX Theatre in the Royal BC Museum offers an awe-inspiring 2-D experience with a projected area of more than six stories high and 70' wide. For more details, see the Adventurous Family Attractions insert in this issue.

Maritime Museum in Bastion Square. The colourful story of B.C.’s marine history is told through exhibits that highlight Victoria’s harbour, early exploration, shipwrecks, piracy and more. Programs for kids include Salty Sundays on the second Sunday of each month, Pirate School, Build a Boat, and birthday parties.

Open 10am-5pm daily. www.mmbc.bc.ca or 250-385-4222.

Miniature World, located within the Empress Hotel, has been called The Greatest Little Show On Earth, with over 80 miniature scenes. For more details, see the Adventurous Family Attractions insert in this issue.

The Royal BC Museum in downtown Victoria. Visit the museum’s three permanent galleries that showcase the human and natural history of B.C. You can sign up for a backstage pass and take a tour of the museum’s entomology or invertebrate labs, or the history, botany or vertebrate collections. Tours take place at 1pm, 2pm and 3pm every Wednesday and Saturday during the summer. Open 10am5pm daily. www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca or 250-356-7226.

Saanich Peninsula/Sidney The Centre of the Universe is the public interpretative centre at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory at 5071 West Saanich Road. Treat yourself to spectacular views of Victoria and the cosmos. Interactive exhibits and talented staff will introduce you to the amazing world of astronomy. Tour the awesome 1.8-metre Plaskett Telescope. Travel the constellations in the Starlab Planetarium.

Open July 30-Aug 31, Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-6pm (summer astronomy camps are offered on-site July 1-29). 250-363-8262.

Saanich Historical Artifacts Society at 7321 Lochside Drive. Kids (and parents) can climb all over the farming equipment, see the mini railroad, a sawmill, planer mill and other artifacts at this 12-hectare site with a small lake, forest trails and pond. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on-site. Open daily 9:30am-4pm.

Trains run on various days from 12-3:30pm.

Book a train ride by visiting www.vime.ca.

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

Butchart Gardens. 55 acres of wonderful floral display, offering spectacular views as you stroll along meandering paths and expansive lawns. Explore the gardens while taking part in the Family Discovery Walk. 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 on June 29 to 8:45pm on August 31). There is musical www.kidsinvictoria.com

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. www.butchartgardens.com or 250-652-5256.

Mineral World in Sidney. A family geological experience, Mineral World’s Scratch Patch sees thousands of visitors annually who come to hunt for gemstones, pan for gold and dig for fossils. Visit the free interpretive centre with its range of hands-on displays which encourage you to look, interact and learn.

It’s all about the Earth Sciences—geology, archaeology, paleontology—and much more.

Open daily during the summer 9am-9pm.

9891 Seaport Place. www.scratchpatch.com or 250-655-4367.

Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre 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. The centre, located on the waterfront off Beacon Avenue, is open daily from 10am-4pm. www.oceandiscovery.ca or 250-665-7511.

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. www.fortroddhill.com or 250-478-5849.

Wildplay West Shore Victoria. This aerial obstacle course suspended in the trees is located behind the Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre.

For more details, see the Adventurous Family Attractions insert in this issue.

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 mining-themed 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. www. eagleridgecentre.com or 250-391-1738.

Adrena LINE Zipline Adventure Tours in Sooke offers a multistage zipline course, consisting of eight distinct but linked rides and two suspension bridges. Trained guides emphasize safety and comfort, ensuring a www.IslandParent.ca

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Events at markets: www.oaklandscommunitycentre.com/markets

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Summer 2013

21

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. www. adrenalinezip.com or 250-642-1933.

Cowichan Valley

Le français au CSF,

The Quw’utsun’ Cultural Centre in Duncan is a great place to learn about Cowichan First Nations cultural traditions and legends.

Enjoy interpretive tours in which you’ll learn about the legends, teachings and stories of the Cowichan Tribes, traditional artwork, carving and knitting. There are also opportunities to see Native dancing and sample Native cuisine. www.quwutsun.ca or 1-877-746-8119.

The BC Forest Discovery Centre just north of Duncan. Visit this tribute to the forest that includes 100 acres of indoor and outdoor exhibits and a bird sanctuary. 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 July 1, B.C. Day Aug 4, Trains, Labour Day celerations Sept 2). www. bcforestmuseum.com or 250-715-1113.

c’est bien plus qu’une langue !

Nanaimo

Nos écoles publiques daNs l’île de VaNcouVer

WildPlay Element Park, south of Nanaimo, offers four outdoor adventures for the whole family. For more details, see the Adventurous Family Attractions insert in this issue.

Nanaimo District 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. Open 10am-5pm daily. www.nanaimomuseum.ca or 250-753-1821.

Campbell River École Mer-et-montagne

Oceanside

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

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

Inscrivez votre enfant dans une école du CSF !

École secondaire Phoenix École secondaire Carihi

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

M-6 7-9 10 - 12

Comox Valley

École au Cœur-de-l'île

250-339-1848 566 Linshart Rd.

M - 12

Nanaimo

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

Port Alberni

École des Grands-cèdres

250-723-5614 4645 Helen St.

M-6

Victoria

École Victor-Brodeur

250-220-6010 637 Head St.

M - 12

csf.bc.ca

22

Family Summer Guide

Paradise Adventure Mini-Golf in Parksville offers two 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, www.paradisefunpark.net, 250-248-6612.

Riptide Adventure Mini-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 Pump & Bump bumper cars and the arcade. 1000 Resort Drive, adjacent to Rathtrevor Park. Open daily. www. riptidelagoon.com, 250-248-8290.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

The Coombs Country Market is on Highway 4, on the way to Port Alberni from Parksville or Nanaimo, less than 5 minutes away from Butterfly World. Enjoy a huge selection of home-cooked treats and meals, as well as international foods. Wander the market, unique shops, galleries and studios for produce, snacks and trinkets. 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. www.oldcountrymarket.com.

Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park offers a variety of caving tours, from gentle to adrenalin-pumping adventures. For more details, see the Adventurous Family Attractions insert in this issue.

Under an hour from Swartz Bay with direct daily ferries to Mayne Island

Open Year-Round 9 housekeeping cottages perfect for family getaways

250-539-2463 • 1-877-535-2424 bluevista@bluevistaresort.com • www.bluevistaresort.com

Create Adventure  IMagine  Play  Splash

Port Alberni The McLean Mill National Historic Site operates the only remaining commercial steamoperated 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 Thursday-Sunday, 10:30am5:15pm. Also check out the Maritime Discovery Centre and the Alberni Valley Museum while in the area. www.alberniheritage.com.

Weeks: July 2-5 July 8-12 July 15-19 July 22-26 July 29-Aug 2 August 6-9 August 12-16 August 19-23 August 26-28 Registration

Seahawks (age 5-7) Firebirds (age 8-12) Cost: Under the Sea Beach Daze $136 Farm Stars Culinary Crusaders $170 Animal Planet It’s a Jungle out there $170 Pay it Forward Going Green! $170 A Bug’s Life In our Big Backyard $170 Oh the Places You’ll Go Amazing Race $136 Art-a-palooza Movie Making Madness $170 Let’s get wet!

Waterworld $170 Music Makers Rockin’ Around the World $102 www.oaklandscommunitycentre.com 250.370.9101

Comox Valley Courtenay Museum. Hands-on discovery as you search for prehistoric fossils on the Puntledge River with experienced guides.

Fossil tours by appointment, 2 tours daily in July and August, 9am-noon or 1-4pm. Stop by and check out the Courtenay and District Museum and Paleontology Centre with its massive Elasmosaur exhibit. www.courtenaymuseum.ca or 250-334-0686.

Campbell River Campbell River Museum. 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. Lego Days on the second Saturday of each month. Open daily during the summer, 10am-5pm. www. crmuseum.ca or 250-287-3103.

Pacific Rim The Kwisitis Visitor Center near Tofino acts as a museum, exhibition and information center for Pacific Rim National Park. 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. www.pc.gc.ca/pacificrim.• www.IslandParent.ca

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

Summer 2013

23

Up-Island Directory Nanaimo’s Biggest Indoor Playground & Cafe Safe Toddlers Play Area Giant Play Structure with slides Cafe for Parents Snacks for Kids

Call today to book your party! #400-2980 Island Highway North Nanaimo, BC V9T 5V4

play@jumpingjiminys.com www.jumpingjiminys.com

250-729-0999

Kathy Humphrey

Seize the Summer Salad Days S

ummers—the way they used to be, that is—are increasingly rare. Those long, hot days, with sidewalks barely visible through the wavering heat lines, with dogs panting in the shade, and with intrepid kids running through every sprinkler they can find.

We have to seize the summer days while we can and make the most of them. Big batch salads can help. A scoop or two of one or more of these, with a burger, a grilled cheese sandwich, or anything at all, can let you feed everyone and still see some summer. Enjoy!

Three-Bean Salad (and maybe more)

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

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

www.facebook.com/PlanetKidsToys

1 x 398 ml can wax (yellow) beans, drained 1 x 398 ml can red kidney, or black beans, drained and rinsed 1⁄2 each chopped green pepper and red pepper 1⁄2 small onion, finely chopped 1⁄2 cup vinegar 1⁄2 cup vegetable oil 1⁄4 cup sugar salt and pepper, to taste splash or two of hot pepper sauce, if desired consider adding canned chickpeas, drained, a can of baby corn, artichoke hearts finely chopped, 1⁄2 cup chopped parsley, a grated carrot, a teaspoon of curry powder Combine beans and vegetables in bowl with lid. Whisk together vinegar, oil, sugar, and seasonings. Pour over bean mixture, stir well, and let sit for several hours before serving.

Keeps well in fridge.

Quinoa & Edamame Salad 1 cup quinoa 2 cups water, or vegetable stock 1 cup frozen edamame (shelled) 1⁄2 red pepper, finely chopped 1 carrot, grated salt and pepper, to taste 3 Tbsp vegetable oil 2 Tbsp lime juice 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar splash hot pepper sauce, to taste 24 Family Summer Guide

Bring water to a boil. Stir in quinoa, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook until tender (about 20 minutes). Meanwhile, cook edamame in boiling water until tender-crisp. Drain, and sprinkle lightly with salt if desired. Fluff quinoa with a fork and set aside to cool along with edamame. Whisk vegetable oil, lime juice, vinegar, salt, pepper and hot sauce together. When quinoa is cool, stir it together with edamame, red pepper, and carrot. Pour dressing over, and fork through, to combine.

Salad Lyonnaise 2 Tbsp olive oil 200 grams smoked bacon, cut into chunks (not sliced) 1 garlic clove, smashed to remove skin and release oil 1⁄2 slightly stale baguette (or equivalent amount of good quality bread), cubed 2 green onions, chopped 1 package of mixed greens (frisee is preferable, as it’s more robust than other types) 1 shallot, minced 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard 3 Tbsp olive oil 2 eggs 1 Tbsp white vinegar Heat large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add oil, and then bacon and garlic. Cook until bacon is crisp. Remove bacon, placing on paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving garlic in pan.

Add bread to the pan and fry until golden and crisp (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat.

Meanwhile, whisk shallot, vinegar, mustard and 1 Tbsp water in small bowl, gradually adding oil, until dressing has thickened. Taste; season as necessary. Prepare lettuce, and place in large bowl. Bring a pan of water to a gentle boil, then add the vinegar. Crack the eggs first into small bowls, then lower gently into the water.

Poach for 3 minutes exactly, remove from water with slotted spoon to drain. Add green onions, most of the croutons and bacon and two-thirds of the dressing to the lettuce. Mix well. Divide

www.kidsinvictoria.com

among two plates. Scatter remaining croutons and bacon over, and sprinkle with dressing.

Place egg on top of each and serve.

2 carrots 1 bulb fennel 2 large radishes 1⁄2 small head red cabbage 3 green onions 1⁄2 cup plain yogurt 1⁄2 cup mayonnaise 1⁄2 cup fresh parsley 1⁄4 cup fresh mint, if available 2 Tbsp lemon juice 1 Tbsp olive oil 2 tsp Dijon mustard salt and pepper, to taste Peel carrots. Pare fennel, removing outer leaves. Trim radishes and cabbage. Coarsely grate or julienne carrots, fennel and radishes.

Finely chop cabbage and green onions. Place vegetables together in large bowl. In small bowl, whisk together yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, olive oil, mustard, herbs, and salt and pepper. Taste dressing; adjust seasoning if necessary. Pour dressing over vegetables. Toss well to combine and serve.

Tabbouleh 3⁄ 4

cup bulgur (can substitute quinoa, if desired), prepared according to package directions 1 cup chopped long English cucumber 1 tomato, diced 1 cup chopped parsley 3 green onions, chopped 1⁄4 cup chopped fresh mint 3 Tbsp lemon juice 2 Tbsp olive oil 1⁄4 tsp each salt and pepper

The P

Veggie Slaw

ower of

Play

2013 Summer Camps Register online at

VikesCamps.com or call 250.472.4000 for more information

Basketball Cross Country Dance Field Hockey Girl Power Hockey Mini Vikes (full and half day)

Multi Sport Racquet Sports Rugby (Girls) Run Jump Throw Soccer Speed & Agility Swimming Tennis

Track & Field Vikes Adventurers Vikes Summer Fun Volleyball Water Polo Youth Leadership Development Before and after care is available.

Place cooked bulgur in large bowl. Allow to cool. Add cucumber, tomato, parsley, onions and mint. Whisk dressing ingredients together and pour over bulgur mixture, then serve.

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

www.IslandParent.ca

Summer 2013

25

Explore & Learn W

hether you’re a beginner or a seasoned naturalist, a visitor or a local, Nature Guide to the Victoria Region, edited by Ann Nightingale and Claudia Copley, will give you the knowledge you need to get the most out of your explorations of southeastern Vancouver Island.

LUXURY OCEANFRONT CONDOS Rathtrevor Beach, Parksville, Vancouver Island

SUMMER SPECIAL

$199/Night Quad Occupancy ★ Two Bedroom Poolside Condo ★ Available Jun 28 – Jul 11, 2013

SUMMER SPECIAL

$219/Night Quad Occupancy ★ Two Bedroom Oceanfront Condo ★ Available Jun 28 – Jul 11, 2013

FALL WEEKDAY PACKAGES From $50/Night Double Occupancy ★ Packages based on 5 night stay (Sun–Fri) ★ Available Sep 15 – Oct 11, 2013

FALL WEEKEND PACKAGES From $69/Night Double Occupancy ★ Based on any 2 nights of the week ★ Available Sep 15 – Oct 11, 2013

*THESE SPECIALS CANNOT BE COMBINED OR USED WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS AND/OR DISCOUNTS

www.oceansandsresort.ca 26

Family Summer Guide

1-877-733-5969 reservations@oceansandsresort.ca

Drawing from the work of 10 local experts, writing about all things natural in this region, the guide covers topics that range from mushrooms, sea anemones, and dragonflies to owls, wolves and whales. In 10 chapters, you’ll learn the species most likely to be seen here, and be directed to the best places to see them. There’s information about “Birding From the Ferries,” how to read a tide table, beachcombing ethics, and about species at risk, among other topics.

Nature Guide to the Victoria Region explains the variety of habitats and natural wonders awaiting your discovery, all in a portable, easy-to-read format, with beautiful full-colour photographs, checklists and a map of all the great places to visit. A perfect travel companion.

Nature Guide to the Victoria Region is edited

by Ann Nightingale and Claudia Copley, and is co-published by Royal BC Museum and the Victoria Natural History Society.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Base Camp: Royal BC Museum

B

udding adventurers, ages eight to 10, will discover their inner explorer in week-long summer day camps at the Royal BC Museum.

In addition to learning about Englishman Robert Scott and Norwegian Roald Amundsen’s famous expeditions in Race to the End of the Earth, kids will also learn about modern science taking place at the pole. Campers will spend lots of time in the feature exhibition as well as getting outdoors.

For families with older children, the Quest: Antarctic Adventures lecture series offers more summer learning from British Columbian adventurers who dared to explore the Antarctic. Whether stretching the limits of their endurance, gaining a new appreciation for their environment or following a family connection—they have each come away with unique experiences and a lifetime of memories.

Individual presentations are on Thursday evenings, July 4 and 18, August 1, September 5 and October 3. The Quest adventurers include: Pat Morrow, climber of Antarctica’s highest peak; Hayley Shephard, first person to attempt a solo sea kayak around South Georgia Island; Gareth Wood, first to walk to the South Pole without support of dogs; Adrian Raeside, retracing the footsteps of his grandfather’s 1910 expedition; and the museum’s own Jana Stefan, who has lived and worked in Antarctica for two seasons, preserving the world’s most remote historic site and the contents of R.F. Scott’s expedition hut.

Wonder Sunday: Polar Adventure is perfect for family time. In the heat of summer, take a cool, imaginary Antarctic journey on August 25 from 1 to 3 p.m. The penguins are expecting you! This fun-filled interactive afternoon is included with museum admission or membership. For registered Kids Club members there’s an extra themed activity from noon to 1 p.m.

The three learning programs are all built around the feature exhibition Race to the End of the Earth, on until October 14. It shares one of the most stirring tales of exploration—the dramatic contest to reach the South Pole in 1911-12. Two Antarctic-bound explorers, the Robert Falcon Scott and the Roald Amundsen, each led teams through harrowing conditions against a ticking clock. Who would reach the pole first? And when they got there, could either make it back home?

Organized by the American Museum of Natural History, New York, this exhibition brings history to life with photographs, artifacts

www.IslandParent.ca

and replicas, including life-sized recreations of Scott’s hut at Cape Evans and Amundsen’s underground workrooms. The exhibition offers plenty of opportunities for family discussion, such as examples of how each man’s decisions affected outcomes, and which leader learned all he could from the people of the Arctic before heading to the opposite pole.

German Classes FOR AGES 3 AND UP

www.victoriagermanschool.org 250-886-1420 info@victoriagermanschool.org

Photo: American Museum of Natural History library.

These journeys paved the way for modern day polar research, ranging from geology to oceanography to astrophysics. The exhibition includes opportunities to discover what scientists are learning today about Antarctica’s surprising sub-ice landscape, ocean currents and weather.

The Royal BC Museum helped develop this exhibition and items from its own collections are included, both in the displays—Cecil Meares’ sledge pennant—and on the animation carts found in the galleries through the busiest midday period. Photos, correspondence, medals and other personal items were donated to the Royal BC Museum, as both Scott and Meares had a local connection!

Not to be missed is the small theatre, near the end and behind “the apple” igloo, with its show-and-tell candid video clips from Antarctica showing conservation work underway on Scott’s hut and its 10,000 artifacts, all left behind 100 years ago. Jana Stefan’s first-hand knowledge of the real hut was instrumental when working with the AMNH as they created a replica for the exhibition.

For more information on Royal BC Museum’s programs and calendar, visitwww.royalbcmuseum. bc.ca. Race to the End of the Earth exhibition and programs at www.explore.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.

       

   

     

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   

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   Summer 2013 27

Generously Sponsored by

and

Summer Calendar of Events JUNE 30 – JULY 1 Victoria Celebrates Canada Day in the Inner Harbour. Kid’s Zone with interactive activities for the whole family on the Legislature Lawns.

The Kerplunks take centre stage Monday afternoon. Multi-cultural programing and spectacular fireworks. www.VictoriaCanadaDay.ca.

JULY MON 1 CANADA DAY CELEBRATIONS Gorge Canada Day Picnic at Gorge Waterway Park and Kosapsom Park. Pancake breakfast, family parade, musical entertainment, classic cars, kids’ activities, canoe rides, buskers’ corner, street hockey, Strawberry Tea, market and more. 8:30am-4pm. Free. www.gorgetillicum. ca/picnic.php.

Canada Day at BC Forest Discovery Museum.

Live music, flag ceremony, concession and more. 10am-4:30pm. $3/person; children under 4 free. No pets allowed for this event. 2892 Drinkwater Rd, Duncan. 250-715-1113. www. bcforestmuseum.ca.

Celebrate Canada Day at Transfer Beach, Lady-

28

Family Summer Guide

smith. Art show, live music in the amphitheater, fun and games for the kids, and more.

Saturna Lamb BBQ at Winter Cove, Saturna Island. Celebrate Canada Day with islanders at a country fair picnic. Play games and win prizes at the Parks Canada Booth. 10am-4:30pm. www. parkscanada.gc.ca.

Canada Day in Maffeo Sutton Park, Nanaimo.

Food fair, live music, entertainment, family events, and more. 9am-9pm.

Canada Day Celebrations in Parksville. Pancake breakfast, parade, a day of family activities including live entertainment. Day ends with a spectacular fireworks display.

WED 3 Flying Birds at Francis/King Regional Park. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will guide your young ones through the tall trees. Fly like birds through the forest and play a game under the trees, then head back into the nature centre to make a bird craft. Meet at Francis/King Nature Centre off Munn Rd at 10am. 7 years and under.

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

Glow in the Dark Skate at Cliff McNabb Arena, Nanaimo. Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed

lighting and special effects. Glow necklaces $2.

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

THUR 4 Marvelous Mount Wells at Mount Wells Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for a hike to the summit of Mount Wells. The view is worth the effort. Plenty of rest breaks. Bring water and snacks. Meet at info kiosk in parking lot off Humpback Rd at 11am. 9+ years. BC Transit #58.

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

Reptile Day at Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary.

Games, crafts, songs and hands-on activities.

Fun for the whole family. Noon-3pm, drop-in.

3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. www. swanlake.bc.ca.

Poetry Workshop for Teens with Aysia Law at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Join Aysia Law, Victoria’s first Youth Poet Laureate, for a two-part workshop with writing games and exercises to get you started, followed up with peer critiques, finishing touches and a class show. For ages 1318. 1:30-3pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104 for information.

Sunfest on Ice at Pearkes Recreation Centre. Enjoy a cool skate and an ice cream. Skate rentals are free.

Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Saanich Neighbourhood Place food cupboard.

3:15-4:35pm. $3. 250-475-5400.

FRI 5 – SUN 7 Visions Art Studio Tour in Cowichan Valley. Meet artists and see their work. 10am-5pm daily. Pick up a brochure guide and map at www.visionsarttour.ca. For more information, call Terry at 250-743-3862.

Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival at Maffeo Sutton Park. Main Stage entertainment, fabulous food, and shopping. Hub City Lion’s Pancake Breakfast Sunday. Free. www.nanaimodragonboat.com

SAT 6 Learn to Fish at Diver Lake Park, Nanaimo.

Catch the fun and learn about fish identification,

www.kidsinvictoria.com

conservation, handling, tackle and rod rigging.

All equipment provided. Rain or shine. Parent participation required. 11am-1pm. Free. 2430 Black Frank Dr. 250-756-5200.

SUN 7 Saanich Strawberry Festival at Beaver Lake Park.

Face painting, pirate school, interactive games, pony rides, relay races, arts & crafts stations, bouncy castle, food and more. 11am-3pm. Free.

250-475-5558.

Westwood Lake Water Safety Day at Westwood Lake, Nanaimo. How prepared are you for summer fun, especially in, on and around the water?

Join in on fun activities while you learn how to stay safe around the water this summer. 1-3pm.

250-756-5200.

mon 8 Seals! Seals! at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park.

Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists between 10am and 1pm to see Tower Point’s most avid sun worshippers and swimming enthusiasts—the harbour seals. Binoculars and spotting scopes provided. Meet at parking lot off Olympic View Dr. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-4783344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Exploring Your Ecology at Diver Lake Park, Nanaimo. Discover the diversity of life in our local parks. Explore and learn about vegetation and the critters, both big and small, that live in the park. Learn about food webs and make a bird feeder to take home. 10-11am. $8/person. 2430 Black Frank Dr.

TUES 9 Art with Eliska Liska: Postcards from the Edge (of Imagination) at Esquimalt Branch Library. What do postcards from fantastical worlds look like?

You decide! Create postcards with Eliska Liska, the artist behind this year’s Summer Reading Club Art, using stencils, stamps and a lot of imagination. For ages 6-9. 10:30-11:30am.

Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information.

Flip, Flap, Fly at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Fly off with the birds, bugs, dragons and super heros. Enjoy stories, songs and games about things with wings, and make a creative craft. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

Blastoff! at Nellie McClung Branch Library. The sky’s the limit as we take off for outer space and explore the sun, the moon and the stars. Hear stories, play games, sing songs and make a cosmic craft. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111.

Summer Shorts: Postcard Story Writing Workshop with Jody Carrow at Oak Bay Branch Library. Join Jody Carrow, Story Studio Writing Coach and Editor of the Claremont Review, the international magazine for youth and young adult creative writers, for a two-part workshop. Experience mad writing and benefit from her ninja-style editing process. For ages 13-18. 11am-12:30pm.

Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489.

Teen Book Club at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Discuss and share with other teens whatever you are reading this summer. We’ll meet every other week; come to one, some or all. For ages 13-18. 3:30-4:30pm. Register at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

Music in the Park in Majestic Park. Live music.

Face painting and crafts for the kids. Bring a picnic dinner. Everyone welcome. 6-8pm. Free.

4380 Majestic Dr. 250-475-5408.

WED 10 Marine Day at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists for this celebration of our precious marine environment. Scuba divers will bring up creatures from the deep. See live displays, view resident harbour seals, make sand creature creations and more. Drop by any time from 10am-2pm. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Park in main lot off Metchosin Rd and follow the 20-minute forest trail to the beach. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Backyard BBQ-inspired Ribs Our original Thrifty Kitchens spice blends are hand-rubbed onto each rack and then glazed with our authentic sauces. These ribs are as saucy as they are delicious!

Pre-marinated, prep-free and grill-ready.

Memphis Dry Rub with Phillips Ale Glaze Featuring Phillips Brewing Company Ale

Louisiana Chili Rub with Buffalo Sweet & Spicy Glaze

TM

Impossible Flights at Oak Bay Branch Library.

Did you know it should be impossible for bumblebees to fly? Come hear stories of flights that seem impossible and then create your own flying devices. For ages 5-12. 10:30-11:30am.

Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more information.

No Passport Required at Central Branch Library.

Travel the world far and wide without ever leaving the library. Enjoy stories and create a fabulous folk craft. For ages 5-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information.

Art with Eliska Liska: Postcards from the Edge (of Imagination) at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See TUES 9 for details. For ages 6-9.

10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information.

Out of this World at Central Saanich Branch Library. Up, up and away. Zoom through space with out-of-this-world stories and activities. For ages 5-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-652-2013 for more information.

Super Heroes of Nature at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Batman had bat powers and Spiderman had spider powers for a reason. Why? Because animals are amazing! Join the staff from Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary as they share their knowledge about some incredible animals. For ages 5-8.

2:30-3:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information.

Slowly cooked for a fall-off-the-bone eating experience.

Chinese 5 Spice Espresso Rub with Asian Sesame Glaze Featuring Level Ground Trading Espresso

1.800.667.8280 · www.thriftyfoods.com 8933 C01 Island Parent June.indd 1

www.IslandParent.ca

2013-05-17 9:41 AM

Summer 2013 29

Wacky Wednesdays at Ravensong, Parksville. They are back! Join the lifeguards for a splashin’ fun time. Everyone welcome. 6:30-8pm. 250-7525014. www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

THUR 11 Storyteller Dan Bar-el: Fun and Silly Storytelling at Emily Carr and Oak Bay Branch Libraries.

What?! Dragons breathe fire, not whipped cream. Join storyteller Dan Bar-el for a line-up of silly stories that will provide both laughs and (dragon) food for thought. For ages 5-8. Emily Carr 10:30-11:30am, 250-475-6100; Oak Bay 2:30-3:30pm, 250-592-2489. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call the hosting branch for more information.

Flip, Flap, Fly at Esquimalt Branch Library. See TUES 9 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am.

Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-4147198 for more information.

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 by the picnic shelter off Island View Rd at 12:30pm. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Poetry Workshop for Teens with Aysia Law at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See THURS 4 for details. For ages 13-18. 1:30-3pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information.

Flip-O-Rama Book of Fun, and Captain Underpants tattoo. Don’t forget: reading gives you superpowers! 11am-3pm, drop-in. Supplies limited on some giveaways. 2436 Beacon Ave, Sidney. 250-656-2345. www.tannersbooks.com.

No Passport Required at Emily Carr Branch Library. See WED 10 for details. For ages 5-12.

2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-475-6100 for more information.

Makerspaces for Teens at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Join members of Victoria Makerspace to design an object to be cut on a laser cutter, a high-precision cutting and engraving machine.

Learn how to use Inkscape, an open source vector graphics program, to create your design. Then, watch the laser do the cutting and take your object home. For ages 13-18. 2-4pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information.

FRI 12 Out of this World at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See WED 10 for details. For ages 5-12.

10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information.

Life on the Rocks at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park.

When the tide goes out, an exciting world comes into view. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will help you discover the creatures that make Island View Beach their special home. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes).

Meet at the parking lot off Olympic View Dr at 10:30am. 5+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55.

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

SAT 13 Captain Underpants Day at Tanner’s Books.

Explore the crazy world of Captain Underpants.

Take home your very own Zombie Nerd Glasses,

Magic Workshop with Andrew: Magic with Everyday Objects at Esquimalt Branch Library. Join Andy for a two-part program to learn fascinating magic tricks using household items, and discover the thrill of creating your own balloon animals.

For ages 10-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information.

SAT 13 & SUN 14 Festival Mexicano in Centennial Square. Professional Latin music and dance performances, traditional Mexican food, craft vendors, dance lessons, games and piñatas. Noon-5pm. Free.

Celebrating the growing family premier photography

30 Family Summer Guide

september 28 & 29, 2013 pearkes rec centre - 3100 Tillicum rd victoria

www.kidsinvictoria.com

250-213-9366. www.victoriamexicancandian. org.

PRODUCED BY KOBA ENTERTAINMENT

SUN 14 Something Fishy at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Cast your line and try your luck. The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC has teamed up with CRD Regional Parks to bring you a fun and educational program all about freshwater fish, plus you can spend time rigging and fishing. All equipment provided. There is no fee, but you must pre-register before July 12 as space is limited. 5-16 years. 10am-noon. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Silly Boat Regatta at Maffeo Sutton Park. Boat building throughout the park starting at 8am.

Boat building, music, performers, free family activities. 8am-4pm. Races begin at 1pm. www. sillyboat.com.

MON 15 – SUN AUG 18 Quality Foods Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition & Exhibition at Parksville Community Park. Master Sand Sculptors from around the world participate in our remarkable competition. Exhibit open to the public 9am-9pm until August 18. Fireworks Display August 17. www. parksvillebeachfest.ca.

Based the H on IT SHOW o Nick eloden on

TUES 16 Impossible Flights at Juan de Fuca Branch Library.

See TUES 16 for details. For ages 5-12. 10:3011:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information.

Summer Shorts: Postcard Story Writing Workshop with Jody Carrow at Oak Bay Branch Library.

See TUES 9 for details. For ages 13-18. 11am12:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more information.

Science Venture: Reach for the Stars at Emily Carr Branch Library. Blast off, eh. Experience out-ofthis-world space exploration with UVic’s Science Venture crew. You’ll even construct your own working version of the Canadarm. For ages 7-12.

Tuesday, October 15

Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre, Victoria *VIP PACKAGES AVAILABLE!

Wednesday, October 16 Cowichan Theatre, Duncan

Thursday, October 17 The Port Theatre, Nanaimo

ON SALE NOW! For tickets visit DoraLiveCanada.com

© 2013 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon, Dora the Explorer and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt! – Margaret Atwood Allow your child to Grow and Learn in our exclusive “NATURE DAYCARE” programs!

We support a Nature based philosophy following the practises of Reggio Emilia, and spending most of our day OUTDOORS! Boasting a 10 acre park in our own backyard! F/T and P/T spots.

250-590-3603 www.IslandParent.ca

Summer and September registration is on now!

Visit our classroom on Facebook!

Please call Lexie: 250-658-6573 Summer 2013 31

2-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-475-6100 for more information.

Superhero Showdown at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Anyone can be a superhero. Let us help you figure out your superhero superpower and then create a costume accessory to take home.

For ages 5-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information.

No Passport Required at Oak Bay Branch Library.

See WED 10 for details. For ages 5-12. 2:303:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more information.

WED 17 Over the Mountains and Far Away at Central Branch Library. Experience a magical travel adventure through stories, songs and games. Make a travel-friendly craft to take on your journey.

For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information.

Out of this World at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See WED 10 for details. For ages 5-12.

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

Flip, Flap, Fly at Central Branch Library. See TUES 9 for details. For ages 3-5. 1:30-2:30pm.

Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-6522013 for more information.

Super Heroes of Nature at Oak Bay Branch Library.

See WED 10 for details. For ages 5-8. 2:303:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more information.

Glow in the Dark Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre. See WED 3 for details. Glow necklaces $2. Regular admission. 6:30-8pm. 250-756-5200.

WWW.bcforestdiscoverycenter.com

WED 17 & THURS 18

INFORMATION – (250) 715-1113 636504_BCForest.indd 1

Movie Making for Teens at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Make your own movie using industry methods during this two-day workshop.

Learn how to write a script, create a storyboard, shoot scenes and digitally edit and upload your short film. For ages 13-18. 10am-5pm. Register 02/06/13 6:21 online PM at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

THUR 18

2306 Beacon Ave, Sidney BC V8L 1X2 250-656-2423 32 Family Summer Guide

The Great Smartini’s Reading Magic Show at Juan de Fuca, Central, and Nellie McClung Branch Libraries. The stupendous Great Smartini returns for some of the zaniest magical oddities in the whole universe. Find out how an animatronic toucan, Captain Underpants, and magic beans come together in the music- and magic-filled extravaganza. For ages 5-12. Juan de Fuca 10:3011:30am, 250-391-0653; Central 2:30-3:30pm, www.kidsinvictoria.com

250-382-7241, ext. 601; Nellie McClung 6:307:30pm, 250-477-7111. Register online or call the hosting branch for more information.

Flip, Flap, Fly at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library.

See TUES 9 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:3011:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information.

Over the Mountains and Far Away at Emily Carr Branch Library. See WED 17 for details.

For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-475-6100 for more information.

Going Buggy at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park.

We love ’em, we hate ’em. They’re fascinating, finicky and fabulous. Drop by any time between 11am and 2pm at the Beaver Lake Nature Centre area for a close-up look at some of our buggy friends and foe. Meet at the Beaver Lake Nature Centre off the main parking lot at 11am. All ages.

BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. www. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Having a Backbone is Overrated at Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary. Games, crafts, songs and hands-on activities. Fun for the whole family.

Noon-3pm, drop in. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250479-0211. www.swanlake.bc.ca.

Out of this World at Esquimalt Branch Library.

See WED 10 for details. For ages 5-12. 2:303:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information.

FRI 19 & SUN 20 Movie Making for Teens at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See July 17 & 18 for more information. For ages 13-18. 10am-5pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

FRI 19 Nature Babies in Backpacks at Francis/King Regional Park. Here’s an opportunity to explore a stroller-friendly park trail, learn about other accessible regional park trails, and meet other parents with babies. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for this informative and fun nature program. Meet at the Francis/King Nature Centre off Munn Rd at 10:30am. For parents and babies.

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

The Great Smartini’s Reading Magic Show at Bruce Hutchison & Saanich Centennial Branch Libraries. See THURS 18 for details. For ages 5-12. Bruce Hutchison 10:30-11:30am, 250727-0104; Saanich Centennial 2:30-3:30pm, 250-477-9030. Register online or call the hosting branch for more information.

Evening Campfire at the Beach at Island View Beach Regional Park. Meet a CRD Regional Parks

www.IslandParent.ca

naturalist for an evening beach walk followed by campfire stories at the campground. Learn more about the animals that call Island View Beach their home. Bring a beach chair. Meet at the campfire ring at the Island View Beach campground, off Island View Rd. 6-8pm. All ages. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

FRI 19 – SUN 21 Islands Folk Festival at Providence Farm, Duncan.

Six stages with dancing, workshops, and on-site camping. Family oriented. www.islandsfolkfestival.com.

FRI 19 – SUN 28 Victoria International Busker’s Festival in Victoria.

Professional street performers from around the world present more than 600 shows along the waterfront and downtown. Magicians, acrobats, fire throwers, comedians, jugglers, clowns and more. July 27, 1pm, come to the Fairmont Empress lawn for a special show highlighting local Francophone history. Noon-10pm daily. www. victoriabuskers.com.

SAT 20 43rd Annual Market Day in Downtown Courtenay. Musicians, artisans, performers, face-painting, balloons and more. All-day street market. 9am-7pm. 5th Street. www.downtowncourtenay.com.

Bucket of Blood Walking Tour in Cumberland.

Walk around the historic town of Cumberland, admire the buildings, and share gritty stories of opium running, mine explosions, disastrous fires and much more. Registration required via the Cumberland Museum. 10am. 250-336-2445. www.cumberlandmuseum.ca.

Moon Walk at Coles Bay Regional Park. When the moon is full 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 water, so be prepared to get your feet and clothes wet (wear shorts and sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the kiosk off Inverness Rd, off Ardmore Dr at 10am. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Astronomy Day in the Nanaimo Harbourfront.

A solar telescope will be set up in Diana Krall Square to safely show visitors sunspots and solar prominences. There will be a variety of different telescopes for you to check out, and volunteers from the Nanaimo Astronomy Society will answer questions about telescopes, astro photography and the night sky. 10am-4pm. 250-753-1154.

Learn to Fish at Diver Lake Park, Nanaimo. See SAT 6 for details. Parent participation required.

11am-1pm. Free. 2430 Black Frank Dr. 250756-5200.

Fancy Nancy Day at Tanner’s Books. You are invited to a soirée (the fancy French word for party) to celebrate everyone’s favourite fancy girl. Come join us for fabulous fancy fun! Feel free to dress fancy. Tiaras welcome. 11am-3pm. Supplies are limited on some giveaways. 2436 Beacon Ave. 250-656-2345. www.tannersbooks.com.

TD Art Gallery Paint-In on Moss Street. Over 175 invited professional and emerging artists.

Meet with the artists and learn about their work and techniques. Moss St between Fort St and Dallas Rd. Free. 11am-4:30pm. 1040 Moss St. 250-384-4171. www.aggv.bc.ca.

Parks Day Old-fashioned Picnic at East Point, Saturna Island. Bring a blanket and a picnic and ease into an afternoon of old-fashioned pleasures. Enjoy free ice cream from Saturna Parks and Recreation. Tour the Fog Alarm Building.

Make a kite. Join the interpreter for Orca News 2013. 1-3pm.

Magic Workshop with Andrew: Magic with Everyday Objects at Esquimalt Branch Library. See SAT 13 for details. For ages 10-12. 2:30-3:30pm.

Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-4147198 for more information.

SAT 20 & SUN 21 Lions International Kite Festival at Parksville Community Park. Kite building tent for beginners, kite demonstrations, and the popular Teddy Bear Drop. Free. 9am-5pm.

SUN 21 What Have You Seine Today? at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Our marine environment is full of surprises. Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists to use a seine net and see what creatures live in the deeper reaches of the ocean. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes).

Meet at the bottom of the stairs at the end of Witty Beach Rd at 10am. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Playfair Fun in the Park at Playfair Park. Entertainment and activities for kids of all ages including face painting, sack races and a variety of educational displays. Noon-3pm. Free.

mon 22 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 by the picnic shelter off Island View Rd at 10:30am. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Summer 2013 33

TUES 23 Art with Andrea: Wish You Were Here Postcard Art at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Create a mixed-media postcard with Andrea Soos from the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. Hardest decision all summer: should you send it to someone special or keep it for your very own? For ages 10-12.

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

Art with Sandi: The Sky Above at Central Branch Library. Artists throughout time have drawn inspiration from the night sky’s vast beauties, and so will you in this multi-media workshop with Art Gallery of Greater Victoria artist Sandi Henrich. For ages 6-9. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext.

601 for more information.

Flip, Flap, Fly at Oak Bay Branch Library. See TUES 9 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am.

Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-5922489 for more information.

No Passport Required at Central Branch Library.

See WED 10 for details. For ages 5-12. 10:3011:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information.

Feeling Crabby at Island View Beach Regional Park. Red crabs, green crabs, smooth crabs, hairy crabs. This beach has them all. Drop in any time between 11am and 2pm and meet the crabs of Island View Beach, as well as some of their crusty cousins. Explore under rocks, have a crab race, make a craft and more. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Look for the blue tents on the beach, off Island View Rd. All ages. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Parksville BC

An independent, non-denominational camp

Where adventure and imagination thrive!

• Forest Adventure • Outdoor Cooking • Narnian Dramas • Mask Making

• Archery • Swimming • Unique Programming • And so much more…

Summer registration on now!

Girls & Boys, Ages 6–15 • August 4–10, 11–17

www.campnarnia.com Join us this summer for an amazing experience!

34 Family Summer Guide

Puppets with Tim: The Ship That Sailed to Mars at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Reach for the stars (skip Jupiter) and travel to Mars. Puppeteer Tim Gosley takes you on a trip through time and space, then helps you to craft a spaceship and crew of your very own. For ages 9-12. 2-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information.

Science Venture: Reach for the Stars at Esquimalt Branch Library. See TUES 16 for details. For ages 7-12. 2-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information.

Teen Book Club at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Discuss and share with other teens whatever you are reading this summer. We’ll meet every other week; come to one, some or all. For ages 13-18. 3:30-4:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

Music in the Park in Beckwith Park. See TUES 9 for details. Everyone welcome. 6-8pm. Free.

250-475-5408. www.kidsinvictoria.com

WED 24 Whelks to Whales at East Sooke Regional Park.

Pristine ocean wilderness offers much to be explored. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to discover more about ocean dwellers near and deep. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at Aylard Farm kiosk off Becher Bay Rd at 10:30am. All ages.

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

Art with Andrea: Go Fly a Kite at Oak Bay Branch Library. Let your imagination fly wherever the wind will carry it. Andrea Soos from the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria will lead you through this mixed-media kite-making workshop inspired by the art of Newfoundland artist David Blackwood.

For ages 6-9. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more information.

the stairs off Witty Beach Rd at 10am. 5+ years.

BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Over the Mountains and Far Away at Esquimalt Branch Library. See WED 17 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information.

Sensational Seaweeds at Island View 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 by the picnic shelter off Island View Rd at 1pm. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. www. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Blastoff! at Nellie McClung Branch Library.

See TUES 9 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:3011:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111.

Songwriting Workshop for Teens with Kaya Fraser at Central Branch Library. Learn how to write a great song with local singer-songwriter Kaya Fraser.

Emphasis will be on lyric writing, instruments are optional. Discover how to find ideas and develop them into well-structured, powerful tunes. For ages 13-18. 2-3:30pm. Register online or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information.

Science Venture: Reach for the Stars at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See TUES 16 for details. For ages 7-12. 2-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

Puppets with Tim: The Ship That Sailed to Mars at Oak Bay Branch Library. See TUES 23 for details. For ages 9-12. 2-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more information.

Puppets with Tim: I Wish I Could Fly at Central Saanich Branch Library. Soar into the wonderful world of stories and puppets with legendary puppeteer, Tim Gosley, then loop-de-loop home with a puppet of your own, decorated for you. For ages 5-8. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-652-2013 for more information.

Impossible Flights at Emily Carr Branch Library.

See TUES 16 for details. For ages 5-12. 2:303:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-475-6100 for more information.

Moon Walk at Coles Bay Regional Park. See SAT 20 for details. 5+ years. 10:30-11:30am. 250478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Impossible Flights at Central Branch Library. See TUES 16 for details. For ages 5-12. 2:30-3:30pm.

Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-3827241, ext. 601 for more information.

Super Heroes of Nature at Emily Carr Branch Library. See WED 10 for details. For ages 5-8.

2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-475-6100 for more information.

Superhero Showdown at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See TUES 16 for details. For ages 5-12.

2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information.

THUR 25 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 bottom of www.IslandParent.ca

Knit Wits for Teens at Juan de Fuca Branch Library.

Learn how to knit a simple neckwarmer, and help others by donating your finished project to a local shelter. Join local knitter extraordinaire Nicole Bottles for coaching and inspiration. We will supply the instructions, yarn and knitting needles. A great project for beginner knitters. For ages 13-18. 3-4:30pm. Register online or call 250-391-0653 for more information.

fri 26 Illustrator Jonathon Dalton: Drawing Superhero Comics at Nellie McClung and Emily Carr Branch Libraries. Love superhero comics? Create one of your own with Jonathon Dalton, an awardwinning British Columbia comics creator. You’ll start on the who, where and how of your own unique superhero and ink the first page of your comic. Kapows optional. For ages 7-12. Nellie McClung 10-11:30am, 250-477-7111; Emily Carr 2-3:30pm, 250-475-6100. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call the hosting branch for more information.

Blastoff! at Nellie McClung Branch Library.

See TUES 9 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:3011:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111.

Over the Mountains and Far Away at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See WED 17 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

FRI 26 – SUN 28 Nanaimo Marine Festival in Nanaimo Harbour.

SAT: Bathtub Parade on Wheels, 10:30am; Fireworks with music, 10pm. SUN: World Championship Bathtub Race, 11am. 250-7537223. www.bathtubbing.com.

Ukee Days in Ucluelet. Festivities for the whole family including logger sports, live music and entertainment, KidZone, contests and more. $20/family; $5/person. 250-726-7772 ext. 225.

SAT 27 Lavenderfest at Damali Lavender Farm, Cowichan. Lavendar harvesting and essential oil distillation demonstrations, farm tours, wand making, children’s crafts and scavenger hunt, guided labyrinth walks with children’s activities.

Baked goods, ice cream, coffee and lavender lemonade. 10am-4pm. $5/adults; $3/seniors; $2/children 12 and under. 3500 Telegraph Rd. www.damali.ca.

Fun Day in the Park for the CCFC at Gyro Park, Cadboro Bay. Enjoy live entertainment, inflatables, silent auction, bake sale, face-painting, dunk tank, Noodle Box tent game and more.

Bring your family and friends. 11am-4:30pm.

Free. www.fundayinthepark.ca.

Spiderwick Chronicles Day at Tanner’s Books.

Enter the fascinating world of Spiderwick. Learn how to spot goblins, pixies, trolls and fairies before they spot you. Trivia, tricks and treats for all. 11am-3pm, drop-in. 2436 Beacon Ave. 250-656-2345. www.tannersbooks.com.

TUES 30 Out of this World at Oak Bay Branch Library.

See WED 10 for details. For ages 5-12. 10:3011:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more information.

Science Venture: Reach for the Stars at Central Branch Library. See TUES 16 for details. For ages 7-12. 2-3:30pm. Register online at www. gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information.

WED 31 Superhero Showdown at Central Branch Library.

See TUES 16 for details. For ages 5-12. 10:30-

Summer 2013 35

11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information.

Over the Mountains and Far Away at Central Saanich Branch Library. See WED 17 for details.

For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-652-2013 for more information.

Furry Forest Friends at Devonian Regional Park.

Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for a funfilled forest walk with your young ones. Explore mammal adaptations, play the “camouflage” game, and learn all about our furry forest friends. Meet at the kiosk in the parking lot off William Head Rd at 1pm. 7 years and under.

BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Science Venture: Reach for the Stars at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See TUES 16 for details. For ages 7-12. 2-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information.

Impossible Flights at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See TUES 16 for details. For ages 5-12.

2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

Super Heroes of Nature at Central Saanich Branch Library. See WED 10 for details. For ages 5-8.

2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-652-2013 for more information.

AUGUST THUR 1 Flip, Flap, Fly at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See TUES JULY 9 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:3011:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information.

Impossible Flights at Esquimalt Branch Library.

See TUES JULY 16 for details. For ages 5-12.

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

Superhero Showdown at Emily Carr Branch Library. See TUES JULY 16 for details. For ages 5-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-475-6100 for more information.

Amazing Race at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park.

CRD Regional Parks naturalists will start you off along this nature-based race through the forest.

Register at the meeting place, grab a race sheet and test your wits and powers of observation as you tackle skill-testing questions throughout the park. Win prizes, too. Drop in any time between 11am and 2pm at the Nature Centre next to the main Beaver Lake parking lot. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. www.crd. bc.ca/parks.

Mammals Madness at Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary. Games, crafts, songs and hands-on activities.

Fun for the whole family. Noon-3pm, drop-in.

3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. www. swanlake.bc.ca.

Art with Sandi: Printmaking on the West Coast at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Be inspired

by Newfoundland artist David Blackwood and create an art project with a West Coast flavour.

Sandi Henrich, from the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, will guide you through printmaking and drawing techniques. For ages 10-12. 1:302:30pm. Register online or call 250-727-0104 for more information.

Songwriting Workshop for Teens with Kaya Fraser at Central Branch Library. See THURS July 25 for details. For ages 13-18. 2-3:30pm. Register online or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information.

FRI 2 Over the Mountains and Far Away at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See WED JULY 17 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information.

BC DAY Long weekend FRI 2 – MON 5 31st Annual Filberg Festival at Filberg Heritage Lodge and Gardens, Comox. Wander through the grounds surrounded by beautiful gardens to view the juried artisans’ work. $15/adults; children under 12 free. Fri-Sun: 10am-6pm; Mon: 10am-5pm. www.filbergfestival.com.

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Learn to Fish at Diver Lake Park, Nanaimo. See SAT JULY 6 for details. Parent participation required. 11am-1pm. Free. 2430 Black Frank Dr. 250-756-5200.

Bejewelled Dragons of the Pond at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Did you know dragonflies live a dual life? Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an up-close and personal look at the amazing world of dragonflies as they zig and zag in search of their prey across the wetlands. Nets and field guides will be available. Meet at the Retriever Area off Beaver Lake Rd at 10am. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. www.crd. bc.ca/parks.

SAT 3 & SUN 4 Ladysmith Days at Transfer Beach, Ladysmith.

Musicians, singers and dancers. www.ladysmithdays.com.

SAT 3 – MON 5 Comox Nautical Days at Comox Marina Park. www.kidsinvictoria.com

Pancake breakfast, bullhead derby, kids’ activities and entertainment, pet parade, dragon boat races, family dance, fireworks and more. www. comoxnauticaldays.ca.

SUN 4 Kids’ Day at the BC Forest Discovery Museum.

Lively musical entertainment, unlimited train rides, games and concession. Museum opens at 10am. Train runs every half-hour from 10:30am4pm. Regular admission rates. 2892 Drinkwater Rd. 250-715-1113. www.bcforestmuseum.ca.

Critter Capers at Winter Cove, Saturna Island and McDonald Campground, Sidney. Can you solve the mystery? Find the clues along the trail and examine the evidence. Drop in any time, but allow 1 hour to solve the mystery. 1-4pm.

Sidney: Park at Blue Heron Park and follow the signs to the campground.

Victoria Symphony Splash in the Inner Harbour.

Kids’ activities start at 1pm. Music on the main stage begins at 4pm, and the Victoria Symphony takes the stage at 7:30pm. Concert concludes with the grand finale performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture complete with cannons and fireworks. www.victoriasymphony.ca/splash.

MON 5 – SUN 11 Victoria Indian Mela in Centennial Square. Main Stage with classical and modern/fusion music, fashion shows, Gidds/Bhangra dances, Bollywood presentations, Garba/Dhandia dances and entertainment from many other multicultural communities. Crafts, henna, face painting and more. Mon-Fri: 5:30-7:30pm; Sat: 11am-8pm; Sun: 11am-6pm. www.iccavictoria.com.

TUES 6 Superhero Showdown at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See TUES JULY 16 for details.

For ages 5-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

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miles of safe sandy beaches warm and safe swimming may–oct. explore the reef and tidepools comfy seaside cottages

For an experience you’ll never forget!

KYE BAY GUEST LODGE & COTTAGES Comox, BC, Vancouver Island www.kyebay.com 1-866-658-6131

Emmanuel Preschool 2121 Cedar Hill Cross Road (by entrance to UVic)

Openings for 2013–2014 Classes!

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 assistant teachers to help with special needs children.

A competent and caring teaching team!

Opportunities:

Mon / Wed / Fri morning class Tues / Thurs morning class 5 mornings a week

Phone 250-598-0573 preschool@emmanuelvictoria.ca www.emmanuelpreschool.ca

Teen Book Club at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Discuss and share with other teens whatever you are reading this summer. We’ll meet every other week; come to one, some or all. For ages 13-18. 3:30-4:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

Music in the Park at Rutledge Park. Arts & crafts, face painting and children’s activities. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket. 6-8pm. Admission by donation. Corner of Inverness and Cloverdale Ave. 250-477-3673.

WED 7 Flip, Flap, Fly at Central Branch Library. See TUES JULY 9 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30www.IslandParent.ca

Summer 2013 37

11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information.

Impossible Flights at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See TUES 16 for details. For ages 5-12.

10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information.

No Passport Required at Central Saanich Branch Library. See WED JULY 10 for details. For ages 5-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-652-2013 for more information.

Superhero Showdown at Oak Bay Branch Library.

See TUES JULY 16 for details. For ages 5-12.

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

Super Villains… Or Not? at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Think all snakes are dangerous? Think again. Staff from Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary will dispel some of your notions about our slithery friends. Live s-s-s-snakes will be in attendance. For ages 9-12. 1:30-2:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information.

Acting Out, Superhero Style at Esquimalt Branch Library. Calling all superheroes. Join Jennifer Callioux of Acting Out! for a workshop filled with puppets, costumes, music and drama… superhero style. For ages 6-12. 2:30-3:30pm.

Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-4147198 for more information.

Glow in the Dark Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre.

Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Glow necklaces $2. Regular admission. 6:30-8pm. 250-756-5200.

THUR 8 Flip, Flap, Fly at Emily Carr Branch Library. See TUES JULY 9 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:3011:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-475-6100 for more information.

No Passport Required at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See WED JULY 10 for details. For ages 5-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information.

Out of this World at Juan de Fuca Branch Library.

See WED JULY 10 for details. For ages 5-12.

10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information.

Superhero Showdown at Esquimalt Branch Library.

See TUES JULY 16 for details. For ages 5-12.

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

Snake Day at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park.

CRD Regional Parks has teamed up with Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary and UVic 38 Family Summer Guide

for this slithery event. Watch snake shows, hold a snake, play a snake game and more. Drop by any time between 11am and 3pm. Meet at the main Beaver Beach next to the Beaver Lake parking lot.

All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Acting Out, Superhero Style at Esquimalt Branch Library. See WED 7 for details. For ages 6-12.

2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information.

Knit Wits for Parents and Kids at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Learn how to knit a simple neckwarmer and help others by donating your finished project to a local shelter. Join local knitter extraordinaire Nicole Bottles for coaching and inspiration. We will supply the instructions, yarn and knitting needles. A great project for beginner knitters. For ages 10-12. 6:30-8pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information.

FRI 9 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 by the picnic shelter off Island View Rd at 10:30am. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

SAT 10 Bucket of Blood Walking Tour in Cumberland.

Walk around the historic town of Cumberland, admire the buildings, and share gritty stories of opium running, mine explosions, disastrous fires and much more. Registration required via the Cumberland Museum. 10am. 250-336-2445. www.cumberlandmuseum.ca.

Geronimo Stilton Day at Tanner’s Books. Come on in and go Klutz Krazy. Galactic Sticker Art. Dot jewelry. Friendship bracelets. Velvet art. And other kool Klutz krafts for you to try. 11am-3pm, drop-in. 2436 Beacon Ave, Sidney. 250-6562345. www.tannersbooks.com.

SAT 10 & SUN 11 Arts & Music in the Gardens at The Gardens at HCP. Stroll through the gardens looking at the work of painters, printmakers, photographers, potters, sculptors and more, while accompanied by beautiful music. 11am-5pm. 505 Quayle Rd. 250-479-6162. www.hcp.ca.

SUN 11 Cadboro Bay Festival at Gyro Park. Enjoy an afternoon with hands-on activities, bouncy castles, pirate school, information displays, arts & crafts stations, and food and fun for the entire family.

Watch professional sand sculptors create a giant sand sculpture next to the Cadborosaurus. Free.

11am-3pm. 250-475-5558.

MON 12 – FRI 16 Summer Day Camp at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Nanaimo. Games, crafts, Bible stories, singing and snacks. Free. For ages 5-12.

9am-noon. Registration forms at www.sapcnanaimobc.ca or call 250-758-2676.

MON 12 – SUN 18 Flamenco Festival in Centennial Square. Local and regional dancers, singers and guitarists. Mon-Fri noon-1pm; Sat & Sun noon-6pm.

TUES 13 Worlds Above and Beyond: Creative Story Writing for Kids at Oak Bay Branch Library. An unknown planet? Another dimension? An island in the sky?

This story writing program, led by writer Korina Miller from Story Studio, will have you exploring writing, collage, drawing and sculpting as you create adventures in a fantasy world. For ages 7-10. 10am-noon. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-592-2489 for more information.

Music in the Park at Rutledge Park. See TUES 6 for details. 6-8pm. Admission by donation.

250-477-3673.

WED 14 Worlds Above and Beyond: Creative Story Writing for Kids at Oak Bay Branch Library. See TUES 13 for details. For ages 7-10. 10am-noon. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more information.

“Bear” Necessities at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park.

We can co-exist with these magnificent forest dwellers. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to learn about the natural history of the black bear. Meet at the Witty’s Lagoon nature Centre off Metchosin Rd at 1pm. 5+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

THUR 15 Island View Edibles at Island View Beach Regional Park. Enjoy the bounty of the sea and land with CRD Regional Parks guest naturalist and First Nations guides. Sample herbal teas and local seaweeds. Guided walks at 10:15am, 11:15am and 12:15pm. Look for the tents near the Island View Beach campground. 10am-1pm, drop-in.

5+ years. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Birds of a Feather at Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary. Games, crafts, songs and hands-on activities.

Fun for the whole family. Noon-3pm, drop-in.

3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. www. swanlake.bc.ca.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Knit Wits for Parents and Kids at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See THURS 15 for details.

For ages 10-12. 6:30-8pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information.

PARTY RENTALS.ca

FRI 16 Evening Campfire at the Beach at Island View Regional Park. Meet a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an evening beach walk followed by campfire stories at the Island View Beach campground. Learn more about the animals that call Island View Beach their home. Bring a beach chair. Meet at the campfire ring at the Island View Beach campground, off Island View Rd. 6-8pm.

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

FRI 16 – SUN 18 Vancouver Island Exhibition at the Beban Park Fairgrounds, Nanaimo. An event to advance the education of agriculture and showcase local farmers and 4-H clubs. www.viex.ca.

Canada Dry Victoria Dragon Boat Festival in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Festival kicks off Friday at 1pm with Taoist priests who will “awaken the dragon” in the elaborate Eye Dotting Ceremony.

Dragon boat races begin early Saturday morning.

Live entertainment, fun crafts in the children’s tent, Forbidden City food court, and more. Free. www.victoriadragonboat.com.

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SAT 17 Something Fishy at Mount Work Regional Park.

Check out the new fishing pier at Durrance Lake. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist and the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC for a fun and educational program all about freshwater fish. You can try your luck at fishing and learn about the watery world where fish thrive. All equipment is provided. There is no fee, but you must pre-register by August 16 as space is limited.

10am-noon. 8+ years. 250-478-3344. www.crd. bc.ca/parks.

Hi Neighbour Day in Errington. Pancake breakfast, 8am. Farmers market, live music, arts & crafts and more. www.erringtonfarmersmarket.ca.

Learn to Fish at Diver Lake Park, Nanaimo. See SAT JULY 6 for details. Parent participation required. 11am-1pm. Free. 2430 Black Frank Dr. 250-756-5200.

Fables, Fools and Fantasy at Uptown Plaza. Enjoy a street theatre-style performance by the Story Theatre Co. Performances begin at 11am and 1pm with roaming entertainment in between.

250-383-4866.

SUN 18 Birds of Witty’s at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park.

For the novice and intermediate birder, join guest www.IslandParent.ca

Summer 2013 39

naturalist Geoffrey Newell for a glimpse of some of the over 100+ birds at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Bird watching is one of the fastest growing hobbies in North America. Binoculars and scopes are available for the program. Meet at the Witty’s Lagoon Nature Centre off Metchosin Rd at 9am.

9+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

KidFest at Parksville Community Park. Face painting, games and crafts, main stage entertainers.

Free. 10am-3pm. www.kidfest.ca.

Wacky Wednesdays at Ravensong, Parksville. They are back! Join the lifeguards for a splashin’ fun time. Everyone welcome. 6:30-8pm. 250-7525014. www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

Tofino Lantern Festival at the Tofino Botanical Gardens. Create a lantern and parade around the garden trails. 7-10:30pm. raincoasteducation.org.

mon 19 Sense-Sational Snoop at Mill Hill Regional Park.

Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for a funfilled “scent-sational” time in the forest at Mill Hill—open your senses to nature’s wonders with your little ones. Meet at the kiosk in the parking lot off Atkins Ave at 10am. 7 years and under.

BC Transit #50 or #53. 250-478-3344. www. crd.bc.ca/parks.

TUES 20 Feeling Crabby at Island View Beach Regional Park. Red crabs, green crabs, smooth crabs, hairy crabs. This beach has them all. Drop in between 10am and 1pm and meet the crabs of Island View Beach, as well as some of their crusty cousins.

Explore under rocks, have a crab race, make a craft and more. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Look for the blue tents on the beach, off Island View Rd. All ages.

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

Teen Book Club at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Discuss and share with other teens whatever you are reading this summer. We’ll meet every other week; come to one, some or all. For ages 13-18. 3:30-4:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

40 Family Summer Guide

sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the bottom of the stairs at the end of Witty Beach Rd at 10am.

5+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Glow in the Dark Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre. See WED 7 for details. Glow necklaces $2. Regular admission. 6:30-8pm. 250-756-5200.

THUR 22 Blood and Guts at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park.

They’ve got pointy teeth and sharp claws, and they don’t eat tofu! Learn more about animals that make their living by eating meat. Cougars and owls and bears—oh my. See live raptor demonstrations. Drop in at the tents at the main Beaver Beach any time between 11am and 2pm.

All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

SAT 24 Bucket of Blood Walking Tour in Cumberland. See SAT 10 for details. Registration required via the Cumberland Museum. 10am. 250-336-2445. www.cumberlandmuseum.ca.

Pete the Cat Day at Tanner’s Books. Join us for a delightful day in celebration of one cool cat.

Come in and sing Pete’s song, play Pete’s games and make a Pete puppet because it’s all good.

11am-3pm, drop-in. 2436 Beacon Ave, Sidney.

250-656-2345. www.tannersbooks.com.

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 them home. Meet at the kiosk in the Aylard Farm parking lot off Becher Bay Rd at 1pm. 5+ years.

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

SUN 25 Arts on The Avenue in Ladysmith. Artists from the local area with everything from carvings to photography. 10am-4pm. 250-245-0700.

WED 28

Music in the Park at Rutledge Park. See TUES 6 for details. 6-8pm. Admission by donation.

250-477-3673.

Bountiful Berries at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. See SAT 24 for details. Meet at the Beaver Lake Nature Centre off the main parking lot at 10:30am. 5+ years. BC Transit #70 or #72.

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

WED 21

THURS 29

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

Going Squirrelly at Francis/King Regional Park.

What does it take to survive as a squirrel? With a CRD Regional Parks naturalist, discover what keeps these furry creatures busy at this time of year. Meet at the Francis/King Nature Centre

www.kidsinvictoria.com

off Munn Rd at 1pm. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Children love the outdoors! Children love to play!

FRI 30 Cougar Capers at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park.

Investigate the life of a cougar on this informative walk and talk with a CRD Regional Parks naturalist. Meet at the Witty’s Lagoon Nature Centre off Metchosin Rd at 10:30am. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Why not let them blow off some steam at one of our camps?

Our highly trained and experienced camp leaders want to make your child’s camp experience a memorable one.

ONGOING

All of our camps are eligible for a bursary and are priced with families in mind.

BABIES, TODDLERS & PRESCHOOL Drop-in Family Storytimes at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Caregivers are welcome and encouraged to participate. Storytimes are free and drop-in. Please come early to find a space. For a complete list of drop-in programs, call your local library, or visit www.gvpl.ca.

We have several camps located in various places throughout Victoria and on Vancouver Island.

We have camps for every age group from elementary, middle school and even high-school aged camps.

We have day camps that last all week long and overnight camps in the great outdoors. Camp is for a week but the impact lasts a lifetime.

KIDS Up, Up and Away: Summer Reading Club at Greater Victoria Public Library. Soar through the summer with GVPL’s free Summer Reading Club. Whether you’re reading at home or on holidays, you can keep track of your reading and enjoy some incentives along the way. Staying in town? You’re invited to join us for a selection of amazing library programs at branches throughout Greater Victoria. Online registration for special programs begins June 15. Beginning June 27, you are invited to drop by your local library to pick up a self-paced reading record. For more information about the club, or to register for programs, check www.gvpl.ca.

Summer Reading Buddies at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Reading Buddies pairs children who need extra practice with reading with teen volunteers for fun literacy-based activities. Little Buddies and Big Buddies meet for an hour daily for one week. The program runs weekly at different branch libraries throughout the summer.

Weekly sessions are available between July 8 and August 16. For children in Grades 2-4. Space is limited. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call your local branch for more information. Registration begins June 15.

Choose Your Own Adventure: Antarctic Expedition Game at the Greater Victoria Public Library.

Inspired by the “Race to the End of the Earth” exhibit at the Royal BC Museum. Clues will be posted on books around the library from July 11-August 31. Find the clues to complete the story. No registration required.

Summer Swims at Bowen Park Kin Outdoor Pool, Nanaimo. Come swim in the heated pool. 1-3pm every day July 1 to August 31. $3. 250-753-8176. www.IslandParent.ca

Find out more specifically about our camps online at

antikipper.com

What does YOUR adventure look like?

Car Seats & Strollers Carriers & Slings Nursing Products Diapers & Diaper Bags Swaddles & Sleep Sacks Toys & Crafts Shoes & Boots Now in

2945 Jacklin Road 250-478-1737 www.jamtots.com Summer 2013 41

Waterparks in Nanaimo. Open to the public 9am8pm June to Sept. Three locations—Departure Bay Kiwanis Water Park, Bay St; Deverill Water Park, Haliburton St; Harewood Mining Community Water Park, Howard Ave. All children should use parks under adult supervision. Hours subject to change. Free.

Playground Program in Nanaimo. Drop in to one of the neighbourhood playgrounds for free family fun. Games, arts & crafts, and sports.

Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm, July 2-August 23.

Parents must be on premises. 250-756-5200.

Children’s Concerts in the Park at Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. Bring a picnic and

a blanket and make a day of it with the kids.

Wednesday July 10, 24, 31, August 14 and 28.

11am-noon. www.victoria.ca/cityvibe.

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

Please bring your own gloves, stick, and helmet with face cage. Pre-registration required.

Sundays 2:15-3pm (July 14, 3:15-4pm). $5.

250-756-5200.

YOUTH Teen Volunteers Needed at the Greater Victoria Public Library. If you like working with children,

enjoy reading and want to help struggling readers, we need you. Volunteer for one or two hours per afternoon for one or more weeks this summer.

The program runs weekly at different branch libraries between July 8 and August 16. For ages 13-18. For more information, email teens@gvpl. ca. Registration begins June 15 online at www. gvpl.ca or in person at all branches.

Tech Buddies: Teen Volunteers at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Volunteer using your skills with computers and other new technologies, and connect with someone in your community.

Teens earn volunteer hours and help adults with their questions about computers and gadgets.

For ages 13-18. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or email teens@gvpl.ca for more information.

Registration for August Tech Buddies programs begins June 15.

Teen Summer Writing Contest: If Only They Had Known at Greater Victoria Public Library. Enter your original short story, poem or song based on this year’s theme: If Only They Had Known. If your entry is selected by the judging panel, you will win a gift certificate for the store of your choice, up to $100 for first prize! For details, contest rules and online entry form, visit www. gvpl.ca/audiences/teens/teen-writing-contes.

Begins June 15. For more information, email teens@gvpl.ca. Contest runs June 15-August 17.

FAMILIES Summer in the Square Lunchtime Concerts in Centennial Square. Enjoy your lunch breaks listening to live music. Noon-1pm. www.victoria.ca.

Special Swim Rate Tuesdays at Ravensong Aquatic Centre, Parksville. Tuesdays July 2-August 13.

1:30-5pm. 250-752-5014. www.rdn.bc.ca/ recreation.

Stay in Richmond

Play for FREE* in Metro Vancouver!

Get a FREE Vancouver Attraction Access Pass* and see the best of Vancouver by staying 25-minutes away in Richmond. Visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Science World at Telus World of Science, the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Vancouver Lookout and much more. With a value of over $800 for a family of four, it might just be the best summer getaway yet!

Visit richmondplayforfree.com/Island or call 1-877-247-0777 for details. *Valid on new bookings for stays between June 15 and September 15, 2013 of three consecutive nights or more. No cash value. One Attraction Access Pass per person.

42 Family Summer Guide

Beat the Heat Skate at Oceanside Arena, Parksville. Beat the heat this summer and go for a refreshing skate. Each time you come to skate, enter the draw to win a Pond Rascals Learn to Skate registration. Wednesdays, July 10-August 21 (No session August 14). Everyone welcome.

6:45-8:15pm. www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

Campfire Circle at McDonald Campground, Sidney. Share the magic of a traditional Canadian campfire with your family. Join an interpreter for songs, stories, s’mores and more. Park at the Blue Heron Park and follow the signs to the campground. Bring a flashlight and a mug for hot chocolate. Fridays 7-8pm in July.

Concerts in the Park at Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. Dance, theatre and musical performances as well as community events. Bring a blanket or your personal lawn chair and enjoy an afternoon or evening of free entertainment.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

1:30-3:30pm, Friday, Saturday and Sundays until September 13.

walk). Fridays in August (no program August 9), 8-9pm.

Salmon Walk at Lyall Harbour, Saturna Island.

Slip away from the afternoon sun to a cool, fern-lined trail beside the stream that once again glints with salmon. Meet at the junction of East Point Rd and Valley Rd. Saturday 11am-noon in July & August.

Oaklands Sunset Market at Oaklands Community Centre Basketball Court. Farmers, artisans, bakers, crafters, and local organizations all from your community. 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 4:30-8:30pm in July and August.

Orca News 2013 at East Point, Saturna Island.

A short, engaging update on the endangered southern resident killer whales. East Point is a prime spot for land-based whale watching. Bring a blanket or a chair. Meet out at the point (5 minute walk). Saturdays 2-2:30pm in July & August.

Tropical Vacation at Sidney Island. Don’t have time to take a long holiday? Escape for a day to a deserted island—complete with white sandy beaches and sparkling blue water. From 11amnoon, join an interpreter for “The Big Catch.”

In your free time from noon-1pm, picnic, swim or build sandcastles. From 1-2pm, drop by and do a nature craft or a geocache activity. Check the Alpine ferry website (www.alpinegroup.ca) for schedule information. Meet at the park kiosk by the main dock. Saturdays in July and August (no program August 10).

Animal Safari on Saturna Island. Only one day to get away? Create lasting memories with a day-trip to beautiful Saturna Island. Explore a salmon creek with an interpreter from 11amnoon. In your free time from noon-2pm, picnic at Winter Cove or drop by the weekly market at the General Store. At 2pm, meet at East Point for a fun half-hour program about whales. Meet at the intersection of East Point Rd and Valley Rd for the Salmon walk at Eastpoint for Orca News. Saturdays in July and August.

Moss St. Market at Sir James Douglas School. Local organic produce, delicious food, hand-crafted products and live music. Children’s activity tent.

Saturdays 10am-2pm until Oct. Ferry Ballet in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. A 20-minute ballet performance with complex

“dance steps” based on combinations of military marching manoeuvres with a few RCMP Musical Ride manoeuvres. Family-friendly and free. Every Sunday at 10:45am until September 8th. www. victoriaharbourferry.com.

Concerts in the Park in the Ladysmith Amphitheatre. Open air concerts Sundays 6-8pm.

Gorge Waterway Nature House in Esquimalt.

Aquarium touch-tank, microscopes, interactive displays and friendly staff. Sundays 11am-4pm until the end of August. All ages welcome. Admission by donation. 250-380-7585 or education@ worldfish.org.•

A Guide to User-Friendly Trails Go beyond the parking lot and pick up your copy of “A Guide to User-Friendly Trails” featuring easy-to-use walking, hiking and wheeling trails in Greater Victoria, BC. Features: • Trails suitable to individuals of diverse ages, levels of mobility and endurance.

• Trail profiles and maps to enable users to determine which parks and amenities to visit.

Pick up your copy at Capital Regional District Offices, West Shore Parks & Recreation and municipal halls in the Westshore area.

Download it at www.westshorerecreation.ca/userfriendlytrails

The Big Catch at Sidney Island. You’ll be amazed at what you will find in your net: fish with horns, eel-like creatures and maybe even the elusive Pacific spiny lumpsucker. Be prepared to get your feet wet. Meet at the park kiosk by the main dock. Saturdays 11am-noon in August (no program August 10).

Wildlife Detectives at Winter Cove, Saturna Island.

Set out on this family activity equipped with a GPS, magnifying glass, and a detective book.

Search for clues near animal trails and burrows.

All detective tools provided. Drop in anytime, but allow 1 hour to complete the challenge. Sundays 10am-noon in July & August.

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. Meet out at the point (5 minute

www.IslandParent.ca

Supported by:

Developed in partnership with:

Summer 2013 43

Kathy Eccles

Harbourside Hotel • Nanaimo • Free WiFi, Free Parking • 100% non-smoking facility • Heated Seasonal outdoor pool • Gym/Fitness Centre, Pet Friendly • All guest rooms are equipped with hair dryer, in-room coffee/tea • Restaurant on site • Located along harbourfront walkway • Excellent central location

Knee-High Fun in Nanaimo

C

rouch down to child height on a visit to downtown Nanaimo’s Maffeo-Sutton Park and the ocean and green space unfold in front of you like one giant playground. Start out on a child’s discovery tour following the park’s waterfront paths, pointing out pictures of old boats posted on the railings along the way.

Head into central Spirit Square where signs weave fascinating stories about the ancient First Nations people who once lived here in longhouses and raised white curly-tailed dogs for their wool.

of child-friendly waterfront events such as the annual Silly Boat Regatta, and the World Championship Bathtub Race with its Sailpast on Wheels Fun Parade.

Stop to take a family picture standing inside The Frame, a 14-foot-high gold-painted picture frame, one of Nanaimo’s popular public art installations. Peer through the open-air Frame to the harbour where the bronze statue of a former mayor stands waving a pirate’s sword.

Next to it, children can marvel at the supersized Dungeness Crab, sculpted with power

Once the playground is in view, though, get ready for the tug of tiny hands. Wooden climbing structures, rope ladders, slides, and swings in the huge playground are separated into sections named after local Gulf Islands, including Galiano, Gabriola, and Newcastle.

Children can burn energy while parents set up snacks on the surrounding picnic tables.

In the summer, this is a prime viewing area for free concerts in the bandshell and a host

tools and a chainsaw. Just past the Crab, they can glimpse the real thing on the crabbing pier while peaking into the traps and buckets of locals to compare who caught the biggest crustacean of the day.

The hunt for sea life continues along the arched foot bridge over Swy-A-Lana Lagoon where the ebb of low tide reveals shiny rocks, shells and more marine creatures. An oceanfront stairway leads to cascading tidal pools

#1 Terminal Ave, Nanaimo BC V9R 5R4 TF: 1-800-663-7322 T: 250-753-2241 hojonanaimo@shaw.ca

hojonanaimo.com IGOHOJO.ca

Summer Programs • Quill Pens & Ink Wells Tuesdays from 10am - 12pm • Cottage Tours Wednesdays from 1pm - 3pm • Junior Archaeologist Thursdays from 1pm - 3pm • Only In Nanaimo Gallery Tours Fridays from 1pm - 1:45pm

Make a Discovery! nanaimomuseum.ca • 250.753.1821 program@nanaimomuseum.ca

44 Family Summer Guide

Prepare to be amazed!

Visit Vancouver Island’s largest specialty toy store

#102 - 2517 Bowen Road 250-585-1778 www.koolandchild.com www.kidsinvictoria.com

where children can wade and spot the spiny backs of sea stars. Gently flipping over these purple invertebrates, kids can examine the tiny suction cups on the underside of their tube feet before returning their finds safely to the tide.

Across from the bridge, Swy-A-Lana Lagoon’s white sand beach curves into a crescent moon, luring children over to dig sandcastles before the ocean flows back in.

From looking down into tidal pools to looking up and out, children can watch float planes taking off and landing right in front of them, while sailboats, kayaks, and ferries scurry around Nanaimo’s harbour. Maffeo-Sutton Park is the launch point for the walk-on ferry to Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park with its grassy playing fields, biking trails, white sandstone swimming beaches, and big barn-style camp and concession store. A narrow strip of water, the Pirate’s Causeway, separates Newcastle Island from Protection Island, home to the Dinghy Dock, a family-friendly floating restaurant and pub. At the Dinghy Dock, children can dangle a hook and bait into the fishing holes specially created for them outside on the deck.

There are three ways to access the Dinghy Dock. At low tide, with proper swimming shoes, you can walk from Newcastle Island across the Pirate’s Causeway and later take the Protection Island ferry back to Nanaimo.

If asked in advance, the Newcastle Island ferry captain will drop you off at the Dinghy Dock, or you can catch the “Protection Connection” ferry that docks in the Nanaimo Boat Basin, a five-minute walk from Maffeo-Sutton Park.

Take that route and children will have a chance to stop for an ice cream before climbing the winding stairwell to the top of the steel replica of a ship’s towering mast, the perfect place to play at being the kings and queens of Nanaimo’s waterfront.

Kathy Eccles is a writer at On Cue Communications.

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

Prizes include:

• Family Getaways • Gift Certificates • IMAX Passes • Books, CDs and More

One entry per family per week. Check out the prizes and enter the contests by visiting

www.IslandParent.ca or www.kidsinvictoria.com www.IslandParent.ca

Summer 2013 45

Party Directory Funtime Inflatables #1 choice for party inflatables

250-474-0597

www.funtimeinflatables.ca

Hassle Free Parties for kids & families

You’ll Flip Over Our Birthday Parties

You provide the space and food…

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

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

Serving Vancouver Island since 1990.

New items arriving soon!!!

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

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

250-383-FLIP

250 472 3546

www.lionspridegymnastics.com Located in Langford

www.puppetbooth.homestead.com G Y M

We Speak Parties!

108, 1841 Oak Bay Ave (near Richmond)

250.590.4254 avenuefabricstudio.com

FALCON

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

A

th

40 sary r Annive 2013 1973–

T I

Danielle's

250-590-7949

info@daniellestudios.ca

www.daniellestudios.ca

C S

musical

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

Book Early: 250-479-6424

#208 – 721 Vanalman Ave

(Broadmead & Royal Oak Area)

www.falcongymnastics.com

S T I C S

TM

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

M N

S

Paint-your-own Pottery and Glass Fusing Studio

Y

N Celebrate your birthday with us!

A

• $10–$25/child • Sew a 14-inch pillow • Two-hour parties • Room for 10 • Booked after school or Sundays

G

Faoriry

pirate

KNIGHT or

Monetty Georgia par

party

Party

party

adult corporate party

4Cats Duncan 4cats.com/duncan•250-709-2286 4Cats Langford 4cats.com/langford•778-430-5422 4Cats Oak Bay 4cats.com/oakbay•250-598-0300 4Cats Royal Oak 4cats.com/royaloak •250-590-7233

46 Family Summer Guide

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Party Directory Birthday Parties!

ctoria

:: Gym & Bouncy Castle, themed parties: creative kids, girl power and preschool parties from Princesses to Pirates!

Gymnastics

Birthday Parties

at Henderson Recreation Centre!

Call 250-370-7200

Come Fly With Us!

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

Parties sizes up to 18 kids

Call 250-595-SWIM (7946)

www.recreation.oakbay.ca

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

Two Certified Instructors and a Host Optional character

Gymnastics Games and Music

Par-T-Perfect

Free t-shirt

Optional character

(250) 386-JUMP (5867) www.par-t-perfect.com • Indoor facility options for all your bouncy castle and inflatable requirements • School fairs/festivals and picnics • At home/indoor theme parties, i.e. Teddy Bear stuffing, craft parties • Free gift for birthday child when you mention this ad • Costumed facepainters and balloon twisters, i.e. princesses, pirates, ragdoll style clowns ur • Follow us on Facebook and Twitter Join O lub!

-C Par-T

Foam Landing Pit and 40’ Long Trampoline

Optional character Optional character

Optional character

Party Participants can win a FREE month

Available Sat & Sun Afternoons Corner of Store & Pembroke

Action-Packed Birthday Parties

Optional character

Supervised • 2–8 Yrs

www.victoriagymnastics.com

It’s about skills, not scores.

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

250-380-2442

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

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

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

Westshore Motocross Park No experience necessary 2207 Millstream Rd, Langford

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

Summer 2013 47

E RR

INGTON

Cooperative Preschool serving district 69 for over 30 years

Sharing in the joy and wonders with our children • A high quality preschool program for three and four year olds with options of extended days • Parent contribution valued and supported • Rich learning experiences in a safe, caring and stimulating environment • Building strong connections to each other and our world • Fostering creativity with a wide variety of materials and mediums • Highly skilled educator, recipient of the prime minister’s award of achievement • A place to be…

We welcome you to learn more about our school by calling 1-250-951-3945 or 1-250-248-4242

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

48

Family Summer Guide

N

Critters

ever mind the scientific studies that show how interacting with animals can elevate a person’s levels of serotonin and dopamine which, in turn, 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. www.kidsinvictoria.com

S T A G E S Su m mer Pro g ra ms 2013

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, pot-bellied pigs, miniature horse, donkey 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). 250-381-2532.

Pacific Undersea Gardens, in Victoria’s Inner Harbour, across from the Parliament Buildings. Have you ever looked a Pacific octopus in the eye? Descend five metres and you will. You’ll also see marine plants and animals in their natural habitat through viewing windows and be able to gently handle sea creatures in the specially designed tidal pond.

Watch a diver swim with rockfish, salmon, wolf eels and Armstrong the Giant Pacific Octopus. Dive shows run throughout the day, with special effects, action and surprises. Open daily 9am-7pm. www.pacificunderseagardens. com or 250-382-5717.

Victoria Bug Zoo lets you see multi-legged creatures from around the world in a safe, fun and friendly atmosphere. For more details, see the Adventurous Family Attractions insert in this issue.

33rd A n nual

Da nce I ntensive Aug ust 19 th - 30 th

Part-day program for dancers 10 years old & up in Jazz, Ballet, Hip Hop & Lyrical

Plus Week-long, part day

Youth Da nce Ca mps Throughout July & August for dancers 6-12 years old in Jazz, Hip Hop & Musical Theatre

A nd Week-long, morning

Preschool Dance Camps Throughout July & August for 3-5 years olds in Ballet, Jazz, Musical Theatre & Tap plus

Saanich/Sidney

www.IslandParent.ca

Little Dancers Classes are running through the summer for those 15 months to 3 years old

photos by D Haggart

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

Galey Farms Corn Maze, Market and Railway in the Blenkinsop Valley offers a petting farm filled with fuzzy friends, a maze, train rides, a playground and market. For more details, see the Adventurous Family Attractions insert in this issue.

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 all kinds of 4H displays and demos, and animals to ponder and pet such as horses, donkeys, 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.

August 31-September 2 at the fairgrounds at

Come Da nce With Us

For more information call (250) 384-3267 email us at stagesdance@shaw.ca or visit us at www.stagesdance.com

Come See Why Learning in Nature Rocks!

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

mosnjk@hotmail.com www.naturejuniorkindergarten.com Summer 2013 49

Duncan

1528 Stellys Cross Road. Gates open 8am9pm Sat and Sun, 8am-6pm Mon. www. saanichfair.ca.

The Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre in Sidney is a state-of-the-art aquarium and marine education centre focused on the amazing 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 an underwater view that most people never see. At the touch tanks, use the one finger rule to shake hands with an urchin and be tickled by a sea star.

Take a personalized tour with a knowledgeable Oceaneer as they introduce you to hands on/ hands wet learning (no extra charge on Mon, Wed, Fri at 2:30pm). Open daily 10am-4pm. www.oceandiscovery.ca or 250-665-7511.

Victoria Butterfly Gardens. Enjoy the beauty of hundreds of exotic butterflies flying free in their own tropical rainforest environment. Wander through the orchid exhibit or carnivorous plant section. You’ll also see brightly coloured fish and tropical birds. The on-site naturalists are full of fascinating facts and will answer your questions. To enhance your visit, take a guided tour, available daily at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. 1461 Benvenuto Avenue in Brentwood Bay. Open daily 10am-5pm. www.butterflygardens.com or 250-652-3822.

The Raptors, just north of Duncan, invites you to meet some of the coolest birds in the world during one of the daily flying demonstrations. For more details, see the Adventurous Family Attractions insert in this issue.

Parksville Little Qualicum Cheeseworks is just north of Parksville. Wander the farm, meet the small herd of dairy cows and see how yummy, artisanal local cheeses are made. Visit the calf pens, the pigsty, see the chickens, lambs, goats, the store, milking parlour, 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 68 acres of beautiful working farm. Open daily 9am-5pm. 403 Lowry’s Road. www.cheeseworks.ca or 250-954-3931.

Errington Tiger Lily Farm is located in Errington between Parksville and Coombs. At the Barnyard 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.

Admission prices include a pony ride for the kids. Open daily 10am-4pm. If you’re heading north from Nanaimo, turn left onto Errington

Road and follow the signs. www.tigerlilyfarm. ca or 250-248-2408.

Coombs The World Parrot Refuge is the largest free-flight parrot refuge in the world and is home to over 800 parrots. The refuge is an educational facility that provides a “home for life” to previously owned parrots. Bring your camera and video camera as these are extremely colourful and talkative creatures. Located 2 minutes from the Coombs Country Market.

Open daily 10am-4pm. www.worldparrotrefuge.org or 250-248-5194.

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. Magnificent eagles can be viewed through one way glass in the largest flight cage of its kind in Canada. You can also view bears, owls, falcons, hawks, swans and ravens. NIWRA offers lots of great activities and educational programs for the whole family to enjoy. Open daily 9am-5pm. www. niwra.org or 250-248-8534.

Butterfly World & Gardens, just past Coombs on Highway 4A. Stroll among hundreds of free-flying exotic butterflies, tropical

Looking to Buy or Sell a Home?

Visit my Parent to Parent webpage at www.BriarHillGroup.com Let me find you the home that best suits your family!

As a mother with two small children, I understand your family housing needs

Give me a call at 250-744-0775

Jane Johnston,* M.Ed. *Personal Real Estate Corporation

Let your kids ACT OUT this Summer!

Aug 5–9 (Ages 9–12) Aug 12–16 (Ages 13–15) Aug 19–23 (Ages 6–8) Join VADARTS for an exciting five-day acting camp. Students will learn the process of developing a character for performance with scripts from established playwrights—all within a fun and supportive environment.

The final class will include a presentation.

www.vadarts.com

info@vadarts.com 250.580.2588

We offer Classes, Audition Workshops,

50 Family Summer Guide

www.kidsinvictoria.com

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 daily 10am-5pm. www.butterflyworld.info or 250-248-7026.

1040 MOSS ST

Comox/Courtenay 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, from June 17 to August 16. Come talk, walk and squawk with the animals, including Tennessee fainting goats, chickens, ducks, sheep, rabbits

Picasso was a kid once.

Sign up now for our Summer Classes and spark the creative genius in your child.

Limited spaces still available.

Register today in person or call 250.384.4171 ext. 0.

Bioregional Themes Wilderness Skills

Oak and Orca Summer Program

Multi-age Experiential Learning Twice-weekly Cycling Field Trips

www.IslandParent.ca

(250) 383-6609 oakandorca.ca

A bioregional program encouraging children to connect with the natural spaces and cultural heritage of our home place.

July 2nd to Aug. 30th Located in Victoria at 2738 Higgins St. Oak and Orca School offers three certified options for children: Kindergarten to Grade 10 School Hands-On Home-Learning (K-9) Pre-primary School (ages 3-5)

oakandorca.ca (250) 383-6609 1-888-383-6619

and more. Admission of $2/person ($1 for kids 6 and under) helps to offset the cost of housing the animals. www.filberg.com, 250-339-2715.

Seaview Game Farm in Black Creek (north of Courtenay) runs hour-long tours daily June 22-September 2, at 10:30am, 12pm, 1:30pm and 3pm. You will be taken by 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. Visit the onsite market and coffee shop. A picnic and play area provide even more fun. www.seaviewgamefarm.com or 250-337-5182.•

| aggv.ca

Summer 2013 51

Rhoda Taylor

Summer Safety Tips

T

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

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

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

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

www.viha.ca/prevention_services/

52 Family Summer Guide

he first official day of summer is just around the corner—and not a minute too soon.

Vancouver Islanders are ready to head outdoors.

As we move into the great Canadian wilds of our backyards and campgrounds, there are a few simple steps which help keep summer fun.

We all love the sun and need to enjoy it while limiting full sun exposure for our youngest children. They are at greatest risk of painful sunburns.

The majority of our lifetime’s damage from ultraviolet (UV) exposure takes place before the age of 18. A sunburn before the age of two increases the lifetime risk of skin cancer. While fair and freckled skin is at highest risk, everyone needs sun protection. Keep your children out of the sun from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest. Use an umbrella, a covered stroller, or find shade to keep infants under the age of one out of direct sun. For children over six months old, apply sunscreen with a sun-protection factor (SPF) over 30 on all exposed skin. If your child develops a burn with an SPF of 30, try a higher SPF. There is a growing selection of child and adult clothing available with a high SPF rating.

Read the labels to determine the SPF rating, find designs your child will wear and ones that cover their arms and legs. When choosing a hat look for one that will protect the back of the child’s neck as well as their face. A soft hat with a wide brim is more likely to stay on. Wearing comfortable hats and active wear will ensure your child stays protected without needing repeated applications of sunscreen.

This works especially well for active toddlers and preschoolers.

It is still possible to burn on those wonderful warm but overcast days. Up to 80 per cent of the sun’s rays can penetrate light clouds, mist and fog. Watch for reflected light—severe burns can occur from light reflected off the water when boating, or off the concrete when in the city.

Sunglasses come in fun colours and styles and when going into the sun everyone, including small children, should be wearing them.

Exposure to the sun, even in short bursts, adds up over the years. Children spend more time outside than most adults so they get about three times the average annual exposure. Their eyes are not as developed so they are at higher risk of internal eye damage which can result in cataracts or macular degeneration later in life.

It’s important that children become comfortable wearing sunglasses outside although it may take a determined effort by their parent

before they leave them in place. Read the label to make sure the sunglasses have a high SPF rating—they don’t have to be costly as price is not an indicator of quality.

While enjoying the seashore, lakes and rivers this summer, keep children under the watchful eye of an adult to ensure both fun and safety. The amount of water it takes to drown is minimal—a puddle can be as dangerous as a pool. Children ages one to four years, and men between the ages of 15 to 44 years are at the greatest risk of drowning. If you have a backyard pool or visit a place with one, check to make sure it’s appropriately fenced and monitored. Even water features in gardens or fish ponds can attract young children.

Having a parent along on water-related outings can be fun for everyone while making the excursions safer. If you can’t swim, enrol in a reputable learn-to-swim program such as those offered by the Canadian Red Cross.

You can’t save your children if you can’t save yourself! Regardless of your swimming ability or the swimming confidence of your children, if you’re boating or playing around water buy good quality, Canadian-approved lifejackets and make sure all children and adults wear them. Swim training flotation devices and inflatable toys are not life preserving so won’t keep you or your child safe.

If you’re going to be around water this summer, think ahead, watch out for risks when your family is visiting new places, be prepared, and enrol your children (and yourself if needed) in a water safety training program.

Moms and dads need the same protection, so teach by example. Everyone should wear a hat, sun protective clothing, sunscreen, lip balm with sun block, and even young infants can be comfortable wearing sunglasses. If you’re going to be on the water, wear a lifejacket.

Have a safe and happy summer!

Resources: Health Canada, Sun Safety, www.hc-sc.gc.ca Canadian Dermatology Association, Sun Safety, www.dermatology.ca/skinhair-nails/skin/sun-safety Canada Safety Council, Child Safety, canadasafetycouncil.org/child-safety/ Canadian Red Cross, www.redcross.ca Canadian Association of Optometrists, doc torsofoptometry.ca/children-sun-damage Rhoda Taylor is coordinator of Healthy Beginnings, Cowichan. www.kidsinvictoria.com

Reed Osler

As Day Turns to Night Advertisers Adventures in insect eating

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insects in mid-flight and occasionally skimmed the lake’s surface to get a sip or to freshen up.

Though their aerial habits are similar, the Violet Greens prefer to curl up in cozy nest holes found in trees or along cliff banks.

When swallows are ready to call it a day, the night shift swoops in, well rested and ready to work. The uniform changes as well, as these new arrivals have no feathers but don a fur coat instead. Like their day time counterparts, bats delight in eating flying insects on the wing, including mosquitoes. In fact, they can eat their body weight in insects in a single evening. Imagine a 150-pound person eating 600 quarter-pound burgers in one day

The insect-eating day shift is first to arrive, showing off their perkiness with their darting flight. I was treated to such a display recently as I was canoeing on Beaver Lake. Suddenly I was surrounded by a flurry of swooping, diving and dipping above my head and inches from the water. Who were these aerial acrobats?

Swallows!

The image that has likely come to mind is that of the Barn Swallow with its tawny breast and long, forked tail. These swallows are quite common around Victoria and, as the name suggests, their cup-shaped mud nests are found exclusively in and around existing structures.

Barns, houses, sheds, bridges, you name it, if we built it these opportunists will gladly take advantage of the ready-made shelter.

Barn Swallows were definitely part of the flock bursting forward and tightly turning around my canoe. I looked up and saw that some of these feisty fliers were white below and missing a forked tail. Apparently, Violet Green Swallows were also enjoying this flying-insect feast. Both of these swallows feed, drink and bathe on the wing. I watched as they grabbed

and you’ll have a picture of a bat’s nightly feast!

As these flying creatures switch shifts you may see them mingling in the dusky light over the lake. Though they dip and dive, swallows have fluid wing beats and dart gracefully to and fro. Their nocturnal counterparts tend to flutter and fly more erratically like butterflies.

This difference in flight pattern will help you to distinguish the day hunters from the night.

So, tonight why not head to the lake for a picnic, catch the sunset and stay into the dusk for the changing of the guard? Both kids and parents will love watching groups of swallows cruising low above the water as day fades to night. Then you can scan the sky for the first few irregular wing beats that are sure to announce the arrival of the night time hunters.

To enjoy this spectacle from the water, bring your family to one of CRD Regional Parks’ guided canoe programs and enjoy the lake and its inhabitants from exclusive front row seats.

Photo: Alejandro Erickson

ummer is here! If you haven’t taken full advantage of our local lakes yet, it is time.

Many delights await you beyond the lure of ice cream, picnics and floating mattresses. In fact, there is a crew of behind-the-scenes workers that, upon closer inspection, just may become the main event of your lake visit.

Water-winged tots and parents laden with beach toys are not the only ones to flock to our lakeshores in summer. Feathered and furred creatures alike are drawn there by the promise of an insect buffet that rivals any lakeside hotdog roast. As a substitute for insect repellent, these flying friends are top of the line and, bonus, they are non-toxic and fragrance-free.

www.IslandParent.ca

Reed Osler is a CRD Regional Parks interpreter.

You can find a calendar of nature outings and events at wwwcrd.bc.ca/parks.

Directory Art Gallery of Greater Victoria.............................. 51 BC Forest Discovery Centre.. 32 The Beach Club....................... 2 Blue Vista............................... 23 Butchart Gardens.................. 11 Camp in the Community...... 41 Camp Narnia......................... 34 Camp Pringle......................... 54 Chemainus Theatre................ 34 Christmas Village.................... 11 City Centre Park................... 39 Conseil Scolaire...................... 22 Cowichan Therapeutic Riding................................ 27 CRD Parks........................18, 43 Dora the Explorer................. 31 Duncan Business Association..................14, 15 Emmanuel Preschool............. 37 Errington Co-op Preschool... 48 Galey Farms...................... Insert Glengarry Dance..................... 7 Great Pacific Adventure... Insert Hip Baby............................... IBC Howard Johnson.................... 44 ICE Victoria.............................. 9 IMAX Theatre.................... Insert Intrepid Theatre............... Insert Island Farms.......................... 28 Island Rhythmic Gymnastics........................ 10 James Bay Community Market............................... 34 JamTots.................................. 41 Juming Jiminy’s...........Insert, 24 Kate Rubin Theatre & Drama........................... 20 KIV............................................ 8 Kool & Child.......................... 44 Kye Bay Resort...................... 37 Larsen Music............................ 7 Lifestyle Markets.................... 19 Mad Science........................... 20 Miles of Smiles...................... 49 Miniature World................ Insert Momease................................IFC Mothering Touch...................... 9 Nanaimo Museum.................. 44 Oak & Orca School.........19, 51 Oakland Community Centre................................ 23

Oaklands Community Market............................... 21 The OCEAN 98.5..................... 1 Ocean Sands.......................... 26 Park Sands........................... IBC Parks Canada........................ 56 Parksville Beach Festival.......IFC Pemberton Holmes................ 50 Pizzeria Prima Strada........... 55 Planet Kids............................ 24 Puddles & Paints................... 31 Pumpkin Pie.......................... 24 Qoola..................................... 16 The Raptors...................... Insert READ Society........................... 3 Restart Computers................. 25 Richmond Tourism................. 42 Royal BC Museum............ Insert Royal Victoria Yacht Club...... 26 Saanich Dental...................... 21 Saanich Recreation................ BC Scallywags..............................IFC Seascape Resort..................... 54 Serious Coffee........................ 23 Smitty’s Restaurant................ 32 Spartans................................. 21 St. Margaret’s School............... 5 Stage Coach........................... 12 Stages...............................10, 49 Sunrise Waldorf........................ 4 Thrifty Foods......................... 29 Tigh Na Mara........................ 55 TJs The Kiddies Store............ 36 Tom Lee Music...................... 26 Tourism Nanaimo.................. 45 The Tube Shack................ Insert Tutti Frutti............................. 40 Uminari Taiko........................ 16 UVic Vikes............................... 25 Vancouver Island Baby Fair.......................... 30 Victoria Academy of Dramatic Arts................... 50 Victoria Bug Zoo.............. Insert Victoria Children’s Choir....... 37 Victoria German School........ 27 Victoria Kids Consignment.... 39 Victoria Recreation............... IBC VIHA....................................... 52 Vitamin Shop........................... 3 Welcome Wagon.................... 48 Western Promotions.............. 17 Wild Play.......................... Insert

Summer 2013 53

Family Getaways Feel like packing up and getting away from it all? Here are some ideas to help you with your family holiday. Enjoy seeing new sites or visiting old favourites as you leave the household chores behind.

The Beach Club Resort is excited to offer the Kid’z Kamp from June 28 to September 2. Kid’z Kamp is available Monday-Friday where we’ve planned some amazing indoor and outdoor activities such as a tidal pool walk where kids experience hands-on learning about the sea creatures and habitats on Parksville Beach. The recreation program is available for kids from 5 to 12 years. Call 1-888-760-2008 for more details.

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Bring your family to Blue Vista Resort and start a new tradition. Located steps from Bennett Bay and the Gulf Island National Reserve with

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its beaches and shoreline walks on Mayne Island, this Tourism BC Approved Accommodation has been catering to families for over three decades. With nine individualized housekeeping cottages to choose from, and a quiet lawn with barbecues, picnic tables and a children’s play area, this small family-run resort invites you to join a tradition many families have been enjoying for years. Cabins start at under $100/night. Visit www.bluevistaresort. com for rates and details.

Howard Johnson Harbourside Hotel Nanaimo.

Free Wifi and parking.

100 per cent non-smoking facility. Heated seasonal outdoor pool, gym/fitness

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Swimming • Canoeing • Sailing • Ropes Course • Windsurfing • Hiking • Faith Exploration • Archery • Crafts • Out-trips • Games & Skits • Campfire • Nature Study • Cycling • Swimming • Canoeing • Sailing • Ropes Course • Windsurfing • Hiking • Faith Exploration • Archery • Crafts • Out-trips • Games & Skits • Campfire • Nature Study • Cycling • Swimming • Canoeing • Sailing • Ropes Course • Windsurfing • Hiking • Faith Exploration • Archery • Crafts • Out-trips • Games & Skits • Campfire • Nature Study • Cycling • Swimming • Canoeing • Sailing • Ropes Course • Windsurfing • Hiking • Faith Exploration • Archery • Crafts • Out-trips • Games & Skits • Campfire • Nature Study • Cycling • Swimming • Canoeing • Summer Sailing • Ropes Course • Windsurfing • Hiking • Faith Camps For: Exploration • Archery • Crafts • Out-trips • Games & Skits••Leadership Campfire • Nature Children • Youth • Families Study • Cycling • George Pringle Memorial Camp Shawnigan Lake, BC United Church of Canada BCCA & UCC Accredited

• 20 Camps to Choose From • For Kids 6 to 15 • 10 New Camps • New Certification Programs www.camppringle.com 250-472-6877 • registrar@camppringle.com

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centre and pet friendly. All guest rooms are equipped with a hair dryer, in-room coffee/ tea. Restaurant on site. Directly across the inner harbour walkway. Excellent location, service and value. #1 Terminal Ave., Nanaimo.

1-800-663-7322. hojonanaimo@shaw.ca. www.hojonanaimo.com Kye Bay Guest Lodge & Cottages in Comox. A popular family-oriented beach vacation spot since 1932. This location offers miles of sandy beaches with warm safe swimming.

The tidal pools are filled with small fish and fascinating sea life. The lawn offers places to curl up to read, sunbathe or play lawn games.

The accommodations provide a comfy “home base.” Join us on the seaside terrace for Sunday pancake breakfast and Fridays High Tea. For a week you’ll never forget… toll free 1-866658-6131. www.kyebay.com.

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Ocean Sands Resort is situated on four acres of beautiful oceanfront property overlooking Rathtrevor Beach in Parksville. The resort

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SeaScape Resort

Q ua d ra Isl a n d

Beautiful oceanfront chalets and cabins overlooking ‘Gowland Harbour’ on Quadra Island.

• Amazing ocean views and sunsets • Kitchenette and BBQ facilities • Pet friendly • Fishing and adventure tours available FREE KAYAKING INCLUDED WITH STAY

1-888-893-1626 www.seascapewaterfrontresort.com www.kidsinvictoria.com

consists of one- and two-bedroom oceanfront or poolside condominium units. Each unit has a fully equipped kitchen, gas fireplace and large balcony either overlooking the ocean or pool. The amenities include a heated outdoor pool, playground, indoor hot tub, sauna and laundry facilities. Come enjoy the miles of sandy beach right at your doorstep. For more info, visit www.oceansandsresort.ca or call 1-877-733-5969.

Park Sands Beach Resort is a family-oriented RV park and campground located downtown on the sandy shores of Parksville Bay beside the Community Park with its fabulous playground, water-spray park and BMX/ skateboard park. Families have been coming here for generations to enjoy the wide expanse of sandy beach, the surrounding natural beauty, numerous recreation opportunities like hiking, biking and golf, and our central location, which makes for easy day trips to other Island destinations. www.parksands.com.

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Whether it’s adventure or serenity you seek, Seascape Resort offers a fun experience for the whole family in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Our oceanfront cabins are nestled amongst majestic Douglas fir trees and overlook the peace and tranquility of Gowland Harbour on beautiful Quadra Island. Seascape Resort offers a full marina, adventure tours, private functions and weddings, and free kayaking included with your stay. Come escape to Seascape this summer.

1-888-893-1626. www.seascapewaterfrontresort.com.

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Rediscover The Natural Choice…

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Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Resort sits above three kilometers of sandy beach and the warmest ocean swimming in Canada. Visitors to our beach can enjoy wildlife viewing, beachcombing or just sitting back and taking in the beautiful view of the Strait of Georgia and Coastal Mountains.

With the most extensive children’s recreation program on Vancouver Island, Tigh-Na-Mara offers something for the entire family. 1-800663-7373.•

Ask About Our Summer Recreation Program

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www.IslandParent.ca

Your Package Includes: • One or more night's stay in a Family Friendly accommodation • $5 Breakfast credit per Adult in the Cedar Room • FREE Laser Bumper Tag at Riptide Lagoon • FREE Kids Welcome Amenity • FREE Kids Club Recreation Program Drop In (ages 5 & up) • Plus more... * Maximum of 4 children per room, with 2 paying adults.

Other restrictions apply. All prices per room, per night.

Applicable taxes and gratuities are additional

Available July 2 through September 1, 2013 Starting from

Upgrade to a Two Bedroom Cottage for $40

Summer 2013 55

Capital Regional District Parks

Details, Details T

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

Tourist Information Tourism Vancouver Island www.vancouverisland.travel View the Outdoor Guide 2013 online, or sign up for the email newsletter. You’ll also find maps and a distance chart, information about accommodations, camping, tours, attractions, festivals, events, family activities, entertainment, parks and outdoor activities in various communities. Tourism Vancouver Island is on Facebook. Log in to stay updated.

Tourism Victoria Visitor Info Centre 812 Wharf Street, Victoria 250-953-2033 toll free: 1-800-663-3883 www.tourismvictoria.com.

Find a Calendar of Events, a Vacation Guide and Map, Things To Do and See, accommodation info and more.

parkscanada.gc.ca parcscanada.gc.ca

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

Visitor Info Centres You’ll find visitor info centres in most communities. They are usually 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. Or just wait to pick up brochures and ideas when you’re on the road.

BC Parks Discover Camping Reservation Service www.discovercamping.ca toll free: 1-800-689-9025; 7am-7pm weekdays, 9am-5pm weekends and holidays You can use the Discover Camping website to view campsite availability, reserve a site and manage your bookings. Most campsite reservations can be made up to 3 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.

Island Weather The Weather Network www.weather.ca For weather forecasts, select “British Columbia” and click on a specific town or city.

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

Road Conditions Drive BC www.drivebc.ca for highway cams, incidents and conditions. toll free: 1-800-550-4997

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

GO GEOCACHING

and take our treasure hunt challenge!

Gulf Islands National Park Reserve

GÉOCACHETTE

relevez le défi de notre course au trésor!

Réserve de parc national des Îles-Gulf

1-866-944-1744

56 Family Summer Guide

www.kidsinvictoria.com

If you have kids… and you like camping… try Park Sands Beach Resort this summer!

RV Park & Campground

A quiet, family place – on the beach – in Parksville.

www.parksands.com 1.877.873.1600

Summer Camps at Crystal Pool & Fitness Centre

Choose from a wide selection of camps for all ages: Preschool Beacon Hill Explorers Sail-Opti Wet Feet SportBall Multi Sport

Youth Jet’in (9–12 yrs) Summerscope (6–9 yrs) Girls Only (9–12 yrs)

Outdoor Horseback Riding (7–13 yrs) French Immersion Ecology (9–13 yrs) Junior/Youth Kayak (11–15 yrs) Camouflage (10–14 yrs) Jet-in Camping (11–14 yrs)

Hang out with us this summer For information or to register, call 250.361.0732 www.victoria.ca

Saanich Summer Fun!

Join us for a FUNtastic time:

Playgrounds | Arts | Sports Dance | Swim | Ride ...camps starting at $17 a day!

Kids just want to have fun, and they should! They learn and grow through play. Creative arts, the challenge of games, sports and outdoor activities, opportunities for self-expression and exploration are vital to their development the foundation of all our camp services.

Register for a summer camp today!

Child Summer Swim Pass

Swim All Summer Long Only $35 Join us during Everyone Welcome and Family Swim times for one great price! Enjoy unlimited drop-in use of Saanich Commonwealth and Gordon Head pools.

Valid June 29 - September 2, 2013 for ages 5-12 years.

www.saanichrec.ca

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