Kamloops momma issue 20 online by Kamloops Momma Magazine

August/September

You Are How You

Choosing Daycare with Care

E AT !

The Effects of Diet on Your Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Behaviour

Back-to-School

Survival Guide

The Short Days of Summer

hen the school year ended, I was a nervous about the long summer days ahead. We’d settled into a good routine: my oldest at full-day kindergarten and my youngest at day care 2 days a week, which meant I had 12 whole hours a week all to myself...and my girls had time away from each other too! The thought of having both daughters with me 100% of the time caused no small amount of anxiety, especially with my husband working out of town. My girls had gotten used to their evening/weekend relationship and it showed anytime they spent more time together. Even long weekends had become exhausting with the girls at each other’s throats by the end and Letter from a me wanting to take refuge in the bathroom (the only room with Kamloops a lock!). So if 3 days was bad, what could I expect from 70? Momma I knew I needed a plan to get through the holidays with my sanity somewhat intact. Summer camps were a no-go this year: my little one is just a few months too young to participate but old enough to understand what she is missing out on if her sister does! So we devoted the first two weeks of summer to swimming. One class in the morning, one in the evening (tip: register early if you don’t want a 6 hour gap between your kids’ lessons – clearly, I didn’t!). Though totally worth it, the lessons did seem to take up all of our time. At least one of my kiddos fell asleep on the way to or from swimming, resulting in late nights and very cranky days. But then they were over and, just like that, a quarter of the summer was gone. Instead of dreading the long summer, I felt the opposite: it was going by too quickly. How would we ever do everything that we wanted? How many camping trips could we fit in? Friends could we see? When would we go back-to-school shopping?! This panic revealed my ultimate concern: why are my kids growing up so fast!!! So I broke out my calendar and began thoughtfully planning the rest of our summer. At the same time, I told my girls it was time to get ready for bed. My oldest broke down into sobbing hysterics: “But, mommy, we didn’t do anything exciting today!” Hmm, maybe it will be a long summer after all! -- Courtney Charlton, editor To share your ideas and comments, contact us at info@kamloopsmomma.com or find us on Facebook!

On the Cover: Brooke Blair is the winner of our Ultimate Back-2-School Cover Contest. She’s 4.5 years old going into kindergarten. Brooke’s favourite thing about school is playing with all her new friends! Heather Sayers and Bernie Hudyma of Captured Memories photographed this adorable little girl. They are lifestyle photographers who mostly shoot on-location and love to incorporate props into their photography. www.captured-memories.ca

A Look Inside Kamloops Momma...

Paisley, 3

September

Life Unfolding Photography

9 Back-to-School Survival Guide 10 It’s Okay to “Double Dip” Help secure your family’s future

Calista, 6

Rowan, 3

How Do I Love Thee

Choosing Daycare with Care

Wet Bags

Marvellous Multiples

Old Softie

UV Groovy Days

You Are How You Eat

Let me count 5 ways

Tips to help you choose the best daycare for your child The possibilities are endless Memoirs of a multiples momma A humour column Raising awareness about UV Exposure and Eyes How diet affects your child’s behaviour

Bravery, 5 and Dahlia, 2

Resources: 12 22 28

Things We Love Dear Aunty Community Resource Directory

27 Notes from a Boho Momma 30 Community Events Calendar

Jenna, 3.5

Kamloops Momma is the fun, reliable publication connecting local families to each other and to our community. We provide information about regional events, resources and businesses, as well as articles intended to inspire, enlighten and empower parents and caregivers. As a local resource, we want our community to get involved. We encourage and accept submissions from any person, business, or organization sharing our goal to strengthen our parenting community. Kamloops Momma is published every 2 months and available for free at businesses and resource centres throughout our region. Readers can also download the magazine online and subscribe to have it delivered right to their door. 6

Kamloops Momma Magazine

Published by Courtney Charlton, editor Contact: info@kamloopsmomma.com 778.257.1510 Sales Contact: Yvonne Dmyterko 250.320.9709 ads.kamloopsmomma@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The publisher will not be responsible for errors or omissions. The opinions and views expressed herein are those of the contributors/writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of the publisher. All rights reserved. No written or illustrated part of this magazine may be reproduced, except brief quotations in articles or reviews, without permission from the editor and individual authors.

www.kamloopsmomma.com

Life Unfolding: September By Sara Schreiner, Life Unfolding Photography

love the smell of school supplies. The day after Labour Day always represents a new beginning for me. More than any other day of the year, it makes me the most nostalgic and the precious summer months will seem to have flown by. My kids are growing fast. Moving through lost teeth and gappy smiles into teeth that seem far too big for their little selves. My oldest daughter is suddenly looking less and less like a little girl. While Tlell, just fifteen months behind her, is still little enough not to be bothered by a weeks worth of camping dirt smeared across her face while playing a game of make believe, Mikayla would rather lay on a hammock for hours with a box of old Archie comics and one suddenly very long leg dangling languidly over the side. Jack will lay on the top bunk of the trailer waiting for only me to lift him down because the first morning snuggle can only belong to his Mom. I know his legs are long enough to reach the lower bunk

but he will still wait for me even while the other kids have skipped any sort of good morning to rush down to the beach. Before Mikayla was school age I dreaded the idea of my kids leaving their babyhood behind. I hated the thought that they would stop mispronouncing words and their guts would recede and turn flat and no longer be so chewable. I didn’t know they would grow into such interesting people completely different in personality and preferences. The mispronounced words have been replaced with comments that are sometimes profound and the long legs that suddenly go on forever are just as endearing to me in their coltish way as the round baby belly. Watching them achieve success in school and sport is as exciting as their first steps. An amazing goal in soccer has me standing on my feet at the sidelines realizing that they are achieving great things all on their own. I am as overwhelmed by a great goal as I am by my sweet six year old son who doesn’t

Advertising Feature

score but would rather hold hands with the player beside him because making friends is what matters to him most. My kids are as unique from each other as they are from the other kids around them and that tells me that we have done something very right. This year my kids move on a grade and I will no longer have the world’s cutest kindergartner who loves nothing more than a great bow tie. I will have a fourth grader working on her first science fair project and a fifth grader finding her way through the social drama of kids that age. The smell of school supplies will bring a new year full of tears, successes and hard work as my kids grow and find their way. It’s exciting to watch and support and, though I know next summer Jack will jump down from the bunk and race off to the beach with his sisters, leaving me a little bit heartsick, it will be made up for by witnessing the changes he makes as he becomes more and more his own self.

Back to School Survival Guide Prepare for School

As the long lazy days of summer near their end, it’s time to start getting ready for the busy school days ahead. Whether your child is entering preschool, elementary or even high school, taking some time in the weeks before school starts to prepare will help set your child up for a successful year.

Re-establish Sleep Routines

For most families, the well-established sleep routines of the school year are forgotten during the summer holidays. The 2 weeks before school begins is a great time to try to get your kids back on schedule. Start adjusting bedtimes by as little as 15 minutes a night until your child is back to the schedule they need for school. A good night’s sleep is invaluable to your child’s success at school...and don’t forget to get a good night’s sleep for you as well! For many kids, the new school year means a later bedtime. Talking about a later bedtime with your child is a great segue to a discussion on the new responsibilities and expectations that come with getting older.

Reconnect with Classmates

Two months apart can seem like a lifetime for kids and their classmates. To reduce the common back-to-school nerves

about friendships, plan a play date with some of your child’s school friends...and even parents too! Have a backyard BBQ or simply organize a picnic at the park. It’s a great way to quell any nerves your child has about their friends and the impending school year. If your child is going to kindergarten for the first time or changing schools, check their class list for any familiar names that you could contact. As well, your school secretary might know some clubs and activities or just post on a local Facebook page that you’re new to town/starting a new school, and your child is looking to meet some kids before the year begins. You’re almost guaranteed to get a few responses!

Shop for Supplies

Back-to-school shopping can be the best part of going back to school for kids and parents too - really! It can be about much more than clothes and school supplies; it’s a great opportunity to connect with your child before they head back to school. Let your child choose. Sure, save them the embarrassment of a bright yellow jumpsuit, but do let them express their individuality. Soon enough they’ll want the same branded t-shirt as every other child their age. By allowing your child to make their own decisions, you’re giving them the confidence that hopefully they will carry with them for the years to come. In addition to building their own confidence, back-to-school

Back-to-School Survival Guide shopping can strengthen your connection. You could make a day trip to a nearby city or even an overnight adventure. Make it all about them. Go for dinner, laugh, do each other’s hair, play tag in the mall! The school year ahead will undoubtedly bring changes; use this time to show that your relationship won’t change. Before going shopping, find out what supplies your child will need. You don’t want to end up with 4 pairs of adorable shoes only to find out that they wear the same pair of indoor shoes everyday! COST SAVING TIP: You don’t have to buy everything before school starts. September is usually filled with warm days, so you can wait to buy those fall clothes when they’re on sale, not before school when prices can be at their highest.

Get Organized

You’ve probably heard (a lot) that being organized is the key to success. Well, the reason we hear this so often is because it’s true! And it’s easier to get organized before school starts than to try to play catch up when everything gets busy. Clean bedrooms, clear out clothes your child no longer fits, and make sure there is a place for everything: school supplies like scissors, paper, pencils, back packs, shoes, and outerwear. And make sure your child knows where everything goes too! With school comes a lot of stuff: notices, homework, artwork. Have a box or basket for each child to place all of their school work. Make it in a high-visibility area like an entrance way or a corner in the kitchen so it is more likely to be used. If they want to, have your child decorate the box.

Plan Your Monthly Calendar

Before each month, update your family calendar to include after school activities, inservice days, holidays, school activities (especially ones you are expected to attend), and any major projects that your child has due. Knowing what is coming can save a lot of stress. Once school starts, it’s also helpful to familiarize yourself with the weekly school routine. Gym days. Art days. Spelling tests. If you know, you can plan the week accordingly, as well as help your child know what to expect - especially if they are having trouble adjusting.

Set School Year Ground Rules

Now is the time to re-establish or set new rules. Negotiate screen time, phone time, and friend time. Let your child know if nightly dinners are mandatory, what household chores they are expected to do, when they should be doing homework. If you don’t clarify your expectations, your child can’t know if they are meeting them.

Combat Morning Mayhem Get Ready the Night Before

Do everything you can the night before to make the mornings more manageable. Make lunches. Go through your child’s back pack so there are no surprises in the morning. Have your child pick out their clothes the night before and have them laid out and easily accessible. If they are picky dressers, give them a choice of ‘A’ or ‘B’ to wear, not their entire closet!

Wake up Early

Have you calculated all of the time you need to get yourself and your children ready down to the minute? Well, forsake an extra 20 minutes in bed - it will be worth it! Wake up before

Back-to-School Survival Guide your kids, get dressed, have some coffee, put on some relaxing music. You can set the tone for a calm morning by modelling the behaviour you want to see in your children. The more frantic you are, the slower your children are going to go!

Establish a Morning Routine

Is your child easily distracted? Do you often find them dancing instead of getting dressed? Sneaking to get some screen time in before school? Create a poster of the tasks your child needs to complete each morning and in the order they should be done: get dressed, eat breakfast, brush teeth, brush hair, pack backpack, shoes and jacket on etc. Use pictures or words, depending on age. Try playing music that is timed for activities. When the music stops, for example, your child knows they should be finished eating breakfast. Some parents use an alarm or even a dinner bell to signal when tasks should be finished. And never underestimate the power of rewards to get kids moving: when you finish getting ready, you can (watch tv, draw, go to school early and play at the park...).

Breakfast

Perhaps you’re the parent who gets up early and prepares a gourmet feast each morning. Or maybe you’re more likely to be handing your kids a PB&J sandwich on the way out the door! If you’re the latter, here’s some simple ideas to make breakfast better. • Have easy breakfast food accessible so kids can make their own. Cereal, toast, yogurt, cut up fruit. Chances are they’ll like the responsibilty and you’ll like the time it saves you each day! • Make a huge batch of pancakes and freeze them so they can be popped in the toaster. • Smoothies! The possibilities (and nutritional value) are truly endless. Veggies, almond milk, Greek yogurt are all great additions. And you can even put some in a thermos for school lunch! • Say goodbye to microwaveable oatmeal packages and try healthful and delicious alternatives such as steel cut oats (put in slow cooker overnight), cream of spelt, quinoa porridge. And instead of topping with sugar, try fresh fruit, honey, or maple syrup. These toppings are also great on plain yogurt!.

Saying Goodbye

Some kids will skip merrily to their classroom without any concern, but other kids (and parents) can have a more difficult time. It’s important to be calm and up beat. Tell them that you’ll see them soon (“I can’t wait to hear about your day when I pick you up later”), remind them of any special activities planned for the day at school, or even plan a special after school activity for them to look forward to. Don’t sneak away or ask if it’s okay for you to leave: if they’re already apprehensive, they’ll definitely say ‘no!’ A quick goodbye ritual can help - a memorable hug, kiss, wave or verbal exchange that makes them feel special. The ritual will become part of their daily routine and will make good-byes easier, especially for younger children. Lastly, if you’re upset, try not to let them see it. Keep those tears inside until you’re in the car! * Check out our next issue for Lunch Issues and Homework Woes. And see P.23 for Dear Aunty’s take on school anxiety.

Things We Love... Penny’s Pooch ‘n’ Ride by WOW Toys

Why do we love it?

This motorized car (with engine sounds!) is friction powered, not battery operated, and it’s strong enough to work well on carpet! It’s designed for ages 1.5 to 5 years, so it’s not fiddly and durable enough for wee ones, but also entertaining enough for young girls. The set also includes a driver, dog, and puppies, which all fit together perfectly inside the car. Tumbleweed Toys, www.TumbleweedToys.com

Barn Box Gift Set by Piggy Paint

Why do we love them?

“Natural as Mud.” Yes, this is Piggy Paint’s slogan! It’s non-toxic, odorless, eco-friendly nail polish that we absolutely adore. Lots of little girls love to paint their nails, but most parents don’t like the harsh chemicals and smells of regular polishes for their little ladies. Piggy Paint is a fabulous alternative: it’s good for your girls and for the environment. In addition to individual polishes, sets such as this one, including the polish, toe separator, nail file, and 3D nail art, are available. Tumbleweed Toys, www.TumbleweedToys.com

Lunch Bag Set by Friday’s Child Boutique

Why do we love them? Plastic bags have

definitely fallen out of fashion for school lunches. They’ve long been replaced by plastic and stainless steel containers and, more recently, reusable fabric bags. Friday’s Child, owned and operated by a local momma, makes custom lunch bag sets in an awesome selection of fabrics - from cute monkey’s to hockey players! The snack bags come in 2 different sizes, can be insulated or not, and can be made to match a drawstring-style lunch bag to carry everything!

Friday’s Child Boutique, www.facebook.com/fridayschildboutique

{ } Do you make or sell something we’ll love? Contact us at info@kamloopsmomma.com to find out how your product could be featured here!

It’s Okay to “Double-Dip”

Provided by Rick Jackson

Help Secure Your Family’s Future

As a parent, you have to be a terrific juggler. You juggle time to complete all the tasks and chores that fill your day. You juggle responsibilities to ensure your children have the best possible childhood and prospects for their future. Yet the toughest juggling act of all is managing your finances while raising a family. It can be even more difficult to find the extra dollars needed to invest towards a comfortable financial future, including your retirement and the educational plans of your children. If you’re a parent of young children, you are probably struggling with a tough decision: Is it better to first save for your retirement through Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs), or to save for your children’s education through Registered Education Savings Plans (RESPs)? Fret no more because there is a way to do both: Make your RRSP contribution before the deadline each year and use the resulting tax refund to make an RESP contribution. That’s the ultimate “double-dip” because your child’s RESP can also take advantage of “free” cash from the federal government in the form of a Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG).

Here's Why the Ultimate "Double-Dip" Works So Well

u When you make your maximum allowable RRSP contribution you may enjoy tax savings that can be applied towards establishing or adding to your children’s RESPs. u The federal government’s CESG program provides a matching grant for each RESP contribution made for an eligible child. The Basic CESG is worth 20% on the first $2,500 of an annual RESP contribution or $500 per year. This eligibility accumulates and carries forward, so even if you were unable to make enough of an RESP contribution to access the full Basic CESG money in previous years, you can start to make up for it now and in future years and get the Basic CESG money your child would have received in those earlier years. u Families with children born after December 31st, 2003 who also receive the National Child Benefit Supplement may also qualify for additional funds through the Canada Learning Bond.

Start Now

Finding the funds to make an annual RRSP contribution may seem difficult – especially, with all the daily juggling going on in your life. So why not start now? Talk to your Investors Group Consultant about setting up a Pre-Authorized Contribution (PAC) to make monthly RRSP contributions. Your RRSP will begin to compound on a tax-deferred basis for a potentially fast and stronger growth over the long term. You can even arrange for your employer to reduce withholding taxes at source based on your RRSP contribution schedule, so that you can fund monthly RESP contributions instead of waiting for your tax refund in the spring to make an annual RESP contribution. It’s a win-win situation that will allow you to also capitalize on the ultimate “double-dip”. An investment consultant can help you feel more confident about your future – plus make sure you take full advantage of all the tax-saving and income-building opportunities that are available to you.

How Do I Love Thee: Let Me Count 5 Ways

By Janet Whitehead

ate in May, I went camping. It was mid-week, the weather wasn’t ideal and the only other campers were a dad and his two children. Naturally, we chatted a bit whenever we happened by

with school holidays. Now this might seem a kind of typical… we’ve all heard children need quality time more than gifts, but maybe this is far too general a statement to be entirely

expressed and received love. As children, they couldn’t have recognized or understood that they were very different, but if I’d had the book in my arsenal of “how do I help these two get along!!!!” perhaps I could have helped them recognize when the other was actually being loving. Instead, I tried, “Did you know they say that children argue because they are vying for their mom’s attention?” They were at the perfect age to resist this notion and they stopped arguing for almost a day. I think a basic understanding of the languages of love could have lasted longer. And, in retrospect, I may have been less concerned that one was ‘less huggy’ or maybe I would have shown more appreciation when one was cleaning and helping around the house. (No, wait, never mind… each other. I laughed when he noted that true. that wasn’t either of my kids!) he’d spent more time packing for the trip The Five Languages of Love for Children, As the author says, “To be their best, than he could have imagined… and it was by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell, children need to feel loved. But if you and delightful to see that their campsite was builds on the premise that there are five your child speak different love languages, ready for anything; rain or shine, water or ways we give and receive love. Although your affection might get lost in translation, biking or hiking, games or creating. all five may play a role, individuals will affecting the child’s attitude, behavior, and I was struck by something he shared. have dominance in one or two of these: development.” (To that add, “Ditto for sibHe asked me if I’d heard of the The Five lings.”) • Words of appreciation Languages of Love for Children. I enthusiHow do I show love? How do I know I • Acts of service astically answered, “Yes!” He explained am loved? Big questions. The books and • Receiving gifts that, through this book, he’d learned that website by Gary Chapman and Ross • Quality time his daughter’s language of love was ‘qualCampbell (www.5lovelanguages.com) • Physical touch ity time.’ present a simple way to explore those I read the Five Languages of Love when answers that simmer away wanting to “Gifts just aren’t that important to her, but time with me is,” he shared. And so, as my daughters were adults. I purchased direct our lives while, instead, we try to a single parent, he plans as best he can to a copy for each of them and said, “Here. live by some elusive ‘normal’ set of rules. spend quality time with his children, and Read this.” I hoped they’d see that some They provide a venue for discussion and sometimes that means taking them out of of the conflicts they had as children were creating actions with loved ones, whether school when his time off doesn’t coincide about misinterpreting how each other a partner, a family member, or a dear

The 5 Languages of Love: • • • • •

Words of appreciation Acts of service Receiving gifts Quality time Physical touch

PHOTO: Marvin Koop and his children, Gracelyn and Spencer,spending quality time outdoors. friend. And they can be a great resource for parents. As an adult, you can do a quiz online (who doesn’t love a 5 minute quiz?) and your ‘love languages’ are prioritized. There’s no quiz for kids, but there is an excellent guideline on how you can learn what your child’s languages of love are. Think of the impact just knowing can have; It’s nothing new to hear of, or be living in, a relationship where one is constantly ‘of service’ and not feeling appreciated for the effort. The partner, on the other hand, wants nothing more than to be told how much they are appreciated. Seeing the differences as a result of a quiz could be the trigger that changes things from “they don’t understand me” to “hang on a sec, we are different. They have been trying to show their love…” Consider gift giving and receiving – now there’s is a tricky one nowadays. Some people think it’s all pure materialism - yet, when gift giving is the most natural way a person expresses love (as opposed to feeling obligated by our ‘material world,’ for example. Do remember gift-giving has been around since the beginning of time.) it is about the thought

and effort they put into joyfully choosing or creating the gift. What happens when the gift isn’t received in the spirit of love that it is given? What happens when the person you love doesn’t believe in giftgiving? It all gets so complicated, doesn’t it? And what about that child who innately feels they are loved when they receive gifts, but learns to feel guilty or ashamed for wanting gifts? (Again, as opposed to the media driven ‘must have or I don’t fit in’ desire for gifts.) Instead of redirecting their way of feeling loved, it can be honoured. This doesn’t mean bigger and better gifts prove your love, it can mean small thoughtful gifts are more than enough. I have always been fascinated by how our minds work and how both our past experiences and our innate way of being influence how we make choices in the present. As a life coach, I am intrigued by the uniqueness of each person I have the opportunity to coach, and I’m equally intrigued by the fact that we, as human beings, can get along at all, given our unique experiences, perspective and ways of processing life! The more op-

portunity we have to understand ourselves, the more opportunity we get to be ourselves, and the more we allow others to be themselves; rather than trying to fit into some sort of ‘normal’ where our uniqueness just brews away inside never getting to leap out and say “Hey wait, but I’m not like that!” I’m also fascinated by how easily we can shift to a better way, if a better way is needed, when we have the tools. The Five Languages of Love for Children is just that - a tool, not perfect, not even exceptionally well written, but a good small step that could change the way a person is living their life. And it has proven itself by a dad who is confidently putting a priority on quality time with his children. Janet L. Whitehead is a Professional Life Coach, helping others to live inspired lives with less guilt and more happy. www.musingsandmud.com

Choosing Daycare with Care By Janis Arner

he care and early learning opportunities that children receive in quality childcare settings helps them develop physically, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. A quality childcare environment helps prepare children for school and allows parents to work or study knowing that their child is being well cared for. Research around the world suggests that brain growth and development of infants and young children is deeply affected by their early experiences. Positive experiences early in a child’s life have been shown to have an important impact on their development, and help them succeed later in life. Finding the right child care arrangement for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent. A quality childcare setting will have care providers that will work with you as a partner in your child’s development. The care provider will respect, nurture and support all aspects of your child’s development. The care provider will provide an environment that: • Has a happy, relaxed environment • Ensures children are well supervised, safe and secure • Demonstrated positive behaviour guidance • Is well planned and inviting • Promotes children’s self-esteem and independence • Offers age appropriate stimulating activities that help children learn and grow • Is clean, healthy and comfortable • Has quiet space for rest or sleep • Offers a range of books, creative materials, toys and both indoor and outdoor play areas • Encourages parents to become involved in their children’s care It can be an overwhelming and daunting task finding the right fit for child care. A good start is for parents to list the things that they feel are important to them in the care of their child. Think about the hours, location, settings, and ideal qualifications. What is their ideal or preferred philosophy or approach to raising children and behaviour guidance? When parents are ready to make that first call to a potential care provider some questions may include: • Are you licensed with Community Care Facilities Licensing (CCFL)? • Do you have a copy of your most recent report? (Inspections are done annually) • Are you a Registered License Not Required (RLNR) with the Child Care Resource & Referral? • How many children do you care for? • What are your fees? • What is your refund policy? • What child care experience or training do you have? • Does your childcare program have any special features? • What do you do with the children over a typical week? These are just a few sample questions. If you find a childcare setting that sounded good over the phone arrange for a visit so that you can observe. There is much to look at and talk about so going with a checklist would be a good idea.

When you are observing does the care provider(s): • Listen to the children and respond with interest and respect? • Accept and value the children’s ideas and suggestions? • Set reasonable limits for behaviour and respond to inappropriate behaviour in a positive, fair and consistent manner? • Respond to upset children with care and understanding? • Encourage children to cooperate? • Have a sense of humour? • Make the children feel good about themselves and other people? • Take time to talk or play with children individually? • Initiate conversations other than giving instructions, commands and announcements? • Promote problem solving skills and foster independence? • Allow children to make choices? • Speak to each other, children and you calmly and respectfully? • Supervise the space at all times?

Other things to ask about are the child care provider’s daily routines and program. Are there opportunities for children to play and interact in a group and individual play? Is there a balance of quiet and active play, indoor and outdoor play, free play and structured play? Does the care provider follow consistent routines for rest, toileting and mealtimes? Model and support healthy practices such as hand washing, healthy food and drink choices and respect cultural diversity? Agreements are important as they help both the care provider and parent know from day 1 all the expectations around fees, sick days, vacation, trial periods, refunds etc. It is always easier referring back to the agreement when either the parent or care provider need clarification, guidance or a reminder on how to proceed with the variety of scenarios that can occur. After a parent has made their choice they will want to make sure that it continues to be a good fit. Monitoring the child care setting is important. Leave some time at the beginning and end of the day

to talk with the care provider or set up a time to “check in” on how things are going. Talk to your child about the how their day went, listen to their feelings. The Kamloops Child Care Resource & Referral Program/YM-YWCA can provide advice on choosing quality childcare, familiarize parents with the different child care options and provide a list of potential daycares. Choosing childcare for your child is an important decision; it takes time, planning and patience to find the right care provider for your child. But it is worth every effort. Janis Arner is the Co-Director Family Services at the Kamloops YMCA-YWCA/ Child Care Resource & Referral Program. www.childcarechoices.ca

Wet Bags:

The Possibilities Are Endless By Rebecca Spooner

t seems that when you become a parent, a whole new vocabulary opens up to you. There are always new words, new devices, new techniques you can learn and a never-ending world to explore. One of these things that only recently came to my attention was a wet bag. The wet bag is famous amongst the cloth diapering community for its many practical uses. Having tried my hand at cloth diapering when I had 3 little ones in diapers at the same time, I had still somehow managed to miss out on this seemingly “best kept secret.” It was only in my sewing adventures that I heard of this nifty little bag and the world of the wet bag was revealed.

What is a Wet Bag?

A wet bag is essentially a cloth or canvas bag that is lined with a waterproof material. There are seemingly endless variations in how these are made, so before you decide what you are looking for in a wet bag, it is helpful to understand the general makeup of them. Most wet bags use PUL as a waterproof barrier. PUL stands for polyurethane laminate. It is a polyester fabric that has a waterproof barrier on the other side. It is somewhat stretchy, waterproof and safe to use with your little one. It can be thrown in the wash and dryer (although many people suggest hanging your products to dry for longevity) for easy care and is a very durable and long-lasting material. This means that while plastic bags and cheap alternatives might be a quick fix, your wet bag will often last through all of your children. Things that are helpful to look for in a wet bag are one that has been heat sealed (this helps to close the puncture holes from the sewing needle and makes it more waterproof along the stitches), one that is the appropriate size for what you need it for, and one that can go over your stroller handle so you don’t have to lug it around everywhere you go.

What Can a Wet Bag be Used For?

A wet bag can have many uses. And once you start having one or two kicking about your house, you’ll probably find they are always full of one thing or another.

1. Cloth Diapering

Where with disposables you get to simply toss the culprit into some unsuspecting trash bin, cloth diapers when travelling can pose some difficulty. They can leak in your diaper bag, they smell, and a days worth of them can compound these problems. Mothers everywhere have tried plastic grocery bags, Ziploc bags, and more; but nothing meets the functionality of the wet bag. Cute prints on the outside, a zipper to hold in moisture and aroma; these bags are perfect for the cloth-diapering mama.

2. Swim Bag

Wet bags work fantastic as swim bags! They keep your car seat from getting soaked with wet towels and help prevent smelly, musty swimsuits in the process. If you are looking for a wet bag that can be used for this purpose, keep your eye open for a larger size, at least 13x15” or larger. Depending on the size of the wet bag, you can often fit a towel, swimsuit, and a few toiletries.

3. Change Bag

Throw it in your stroller basket or around your handle and put wet/messy clothes in it, a change pad, your diaper wipes, and whatever else you may need to carry around. It is such a versatile bag that it can be used for items soiled or not and is a smaller alternative to a diaper bag.

4. A Food Bag

You can put anything in this bag from bottles to food and snacks. Most PUL is BPA, PVC and phthalate free. It is marked as safe to use with food in the US and Canada and if anything spills, it saves your car, stroller, or diaper bag from getting soaked in the process. These are just a few of the many uses for a wet bag. Some people use them on the back of their high chairs and fill them with damp cloths/bibs/etc. for feeding time. Others use it for a travel bag; keeping their toiletries inside to avoid spilling in their suitcase. It can also be used in the bathroom to hold cloth wipes for toilet training, or hung on your towel rack for

“The wet bag is famous amongst the cloth diapering community for its many practical uses. Having tried my hand at cloth diapering when I had 3 little ones in diapers at the same time, I had still somehow managed to miss out on this seemingly ‘best kept secret.’” your creams and even makeup. Some people use wet bags for reusable feminine products. The possibilities are pretty much endless.

How to Care for a Wet Bag

It is so easy to care for, simply turn the PUL out, rinse or wipe it down and put it back in for a quick clean or throw the whole bag in the wash to get it looking new again. They are the most low-maintenance, reusable, convenient and versatile bag you will ever own. If you are contemplating a wet bag, make sure that they are heat sealed, look for the size that will accommodate your personal usage of the bag, and ideally one with a handle that can open and close to go around a handle or towel rack. Rebecca Spooner is a homeschooling stay-at-home mother of 4 young children. Rebecca and her sister-in-law, Sonia, are co-owners of Spooner Sisters Designs. spoonersistersdesigns@gmail.com

Marvellous Multiples... Memoirs of a Multiples Momma By Ann Weninger

he “secret” news spread quickly to our friends and family. We were pregnant and elated! The weeks flew by and we were on top of the world. But then at 14 weeks the unthinkable happened. I had a miscarriage. We were devastated, our hopes and dreams were gone. I have never felt such grief in all my life. Some very dark days followed and I began a downward spiral of tears and the “why me’s?” I would panic whenever my husband left for work, thinking that he would not return home safe and sound. I did not like to be alone but in the same breathe, did not want to leave my house. But through our pain and sorrow, we learned that our story did not end there. It turned out to be just the beginning of an incredible journey. Just over a year later, I was laying on the ultrasound table while my husband paced nervously outside the room. I will never forget the first words spoken to me by the ultrasound technician that day as she rattled off specifics about “Baby A.” I looked at her in confusion, “Baby A?” What do you mean “Baby A?” She stared back at me and said, “You are having twins. You did not know?” I burst into tears and started sobbing uncontrollably which sent the technician flying out into the hall to bring my husband to my rescue. As he walked

through the door, his wide eyes could not hide his concern. He was terrified to see his sobbing wife on the ultrasound table. The exact scene of just over a year ago when we received the devastating news of the miscarriage. But this time the news was happy. “We are having twins!” I could barely get the words out. My husband’s worried facial expression immediately softened and a wide grin now appeared. He wrapped his arms around me and I knew in my heart that we would be alright. As my pregnancy progressed and the fourteen week mark was fast approaching we held our breath, still feeling the sting of my miscarriage and worrying “What if it happens again?” I could not bear the thought of losing another pregnancy. I was terrified to do anything that might harm my pregnancy. I became the professional gate keeper and overly cautious. I was afraid to sneeze, laugh or walk. Yes, I know how ridiculous that sounds now, but to me it was my way of feeling as though I had some control. I was determined that I would carry those babies to term. Right on cue, at the fourteen week mark, I noticed some spotting. I was fit to be tied. This cannot be happening again. I immediately called my Dr. and he rushed us in. Ultrasound in hand, the Dr. found one, then two heart beats. Two perfect tiny

people. I breathed a huge sigh of relief but was monitored closely during the following week as the spotting continued, then gradually stopped. I was promptly put on bed rest from that day forward with the words “high risk pregnancy” running through my head. And that began my journey as a mother of multiples. The following weeks were truly uneventful and I became more and more comfortable with my growing belly and became less, let’s just call a spade a spade, neurotic. From Dr.’s visits at which I flat out refused to be weighed to the stretch, stretch, stretch of my belly, I soon realized that instead of complaining about being on bed rest, I should be enjoying every moment. Our lives were about to change in every way possible and we would need all the energy that we could harness. Ann Weninger is a wife, business owner of Kamloops’ Ann Weninger Photography, and a mother of beautiful, three-year-old twin girls. “No one can prepare you for parenthood...and no one can certainly prepare you for parenthood with multiples!” says Ann. “I am in no way claiming to be an expert in raising multiples, but just a mom who is learning by experience.” Stay tuned next issue when Ann will continue sharing her experiences as a multiple momma.

Old Softie “This couch is big and old and pretends to be comfortable long enough to lull you to sleep, then it warps your bones and twists your cartilage.” By Lou Maze

was contemplating getting out of my couch the other day. You may have a couch you get up from, mine is one you get out of. My couch swallows people and the process of removing yourself is more like being regurgitated than rising. There are always flailing arms, grunts and colorful expletives. Sometimes, there are plaintive cries for help. Friends know my couch and prefer the loveseat. If you visit my house and we sit together in the living room don’t be offended if I don’t see you to the door. I know the way. I’m just not prepared to make a spectacle of myself. If I invite you to sit on my couch, it means I really like you and want to keep you or I really don’t like you and can’t wait to see you make a spectacle of yourself. The couch came with the place, as did a Llama, a rooster, an assortment of hens and two ducks. The livestock have their own peculiarities. The rooster is a craven coward. Boris, the duck, has a broken wing and a mate who flies away when he gets amorous. And Dahli, well, he’s a male Llama, that everyone calls she because not everyone gets the joke. I had low expectations of the couch and I have not been disappointed. It came christened with its own collection of stains and scents, so the addition of apple juice, spaghetti sauce and pet hair is nothing to fuss over. It drinks it all up, burps and begs for more.

It is not one of those big old comfortable couches. This couch is big and old and pretends to be comfortable long enough to lull you to sleep, then it warps your bones and twists your cartilage. It’s more like spinal macramé than a nap. The last time I saw my husband bent one direction while struggling to move the other; his only explanation was to grip one kidney and gasp “couch.” I get even in my own way. The kids jump on the couch, flip the cushions around and generally abuse it. I encourage this behavior until Ol’ Yeller comes up from the basement and tells them to knock it off. It is handy having a husband in the basement. Just when the kids think he’s gone, he rises up like some sinister specter to make ominous threats. Of course, the kids are less afraid of him, now that he walks funny. www.loumaze.com

Dear Aunty...

Answering questions about you and your child’s health

what is even ‘out there’ when I go visit my doctor. Help.” – Em. Oh Em, I hear your pain. I too have menorrhagia, which is heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding that lasts for more than 7 days. As a matter of fact, I went to my doctor to see about an endometrial ablation, (surgery to remove the lining of my uterus) but was not a candidate because of my two C-sections. You and I are not alone. According to the Centre for Disease Control, menorrhagia is one of the most common problems women report to their doctors--about one out of every five women has it. You might have menorrhagia if you: • Have a menstrual flow that soaks through one or more pads or tampons every hour for several hours in a row. • Need to double up on pads to control your menstrual flow. • Need to change pads or tampons during the night. • Have menstrual periods lasting more than 7 days. • Have a menstrual flow with blood clots the size of a quarter or larger. • Have a heavy menstrual flow that keeps you from doing the things you would do normally. • Have constant pain in the lower part of the stomach during your periods. “Dear Aunty: I’m 35. I’m done my family. I have no need • Are tired, lack energy, or are short of breath. for birth control as I have a tubal ligation and have been with You’re right to have made an appointment with your GP: the same man for what seems like 8,000 years. Yet here I am, The bottom line is that if you have bleeding that lasts longer looking for advice about the pill just to deal with my ridicuthan 7 days per period, or is so heavy that you have to change lously heavy, painful periods. I’d like to have some idea of your pad or tampon nearly every hour, you need to talk with your doctor. He or she will need to rule out things like uterusrelated problems, hormone-related problems, and bleeding/ non-bleeding disorders (like clotting problems or pelvic inflammatory disease). I took your question to the absolute *experts* on all things Sexual Health, Options for Sexual Health www.optionsforsexualhealth.org to see what the current treatments are for menorrhagia. BTW, the folks at “Opt” are phenomenal. If you haven’t checked out their website, you must! They’re not just for teens—they have TONS of information, links and statistics. I absolutely adore them. Special thanks to Dr. Marisa Collins, Medical Director, for her terrific advice! Identified issue: Very heavy periods with severe cramping. Birth control pills have been shown to help make periods more regular and reduce the amount of bleeding. You may also wish to consider an intrauterine device. In January, the New England Journal of Medicine published an article about the Mirena IUD showing that it provided better outcomes than other medical therapies, reducing the impact of the disorder on daily activities and improving quality of life. As with any hormonal therapy, there are side effects and contraindications. It’s important to tell your doctor if you are a smoker, as smoking increases your risk of serious complications with many of the hormonal birth control agents. However, hormonal options are just one among several medical therapies that you may wish to discuss with your MD. If it turns out your heavy bleeding is due to a bleeding disorder, your doctor may prescribe a special nasal spray to help your blood clot. Your doctor may also prescribe something called an “antifibrinolytic” medicine to help reduce bleeding by stopping clots from breaking down. Your doctor will likely also do a blood test to see if you are anemic, appy New Year, Kamloops Mommas! Sure it’s September and not January, but there’s always something about the crisp new Back-to-School clothes, backpacks and lunch kits that makes me feel all fresh and New Year-y again. There are a few big transitions at Aunty’s House this year: I’ll be (tearfully, I admit it) waving goodbye to my baby at Mme. Ruston’s Kindergarten doorstep while simultaneously switching our playroom’s shape-sorters with “not for children under the age of 3” K’nex sets as I move from Daycare to before/after-school care for my four daycare graduates (where did the time go?!). Aunty’s also changing University goals and will be moving more towards geriatric home care rather than adolescent developmental psychology (something about my own mum retiring and officially entering the “Senior” domain and my babies all going to school full-time helped swing my trajectory). I hope you will continue to send me advice requests as I stretch my mommytentacles out in these new directions! Now, on with your questions....

and talk to you about iron supplements to help get more iron into your blood to carry oxygen, which may help with symptoms of fatigue and low-energy. You may also be asked to start taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (like Advil) to reduce pain, cramping and bleeding. And surgical options? Medical therapies need be tried first, and younger women (<40) have considerably higher failure rates with endometrial ablation. Talk to your doctor about your particular situation and ask questions about side effects and long term effects before deciding on a treatment.

Children need active parenting until they are at least 18 years old, not just until they are in school! Parents play an important role in preparing their child for this transition. Readying the kindergarten child is a gradual process; it does not occur overnight. The following are ways to raise the child’s comfort level: The first week of school is usually gradual entry. You will be encouraged to take the child to visit the school and possibly the classroom for short periods of time, gradually increasing over the week. Play on the playground with your children. Dear Aunty: “We’re gearing up for kindergarten. I’m anx- Check out the Primary entrances to the building and the specific Primary play ground areas. Familiarity with the school ious. My child’s anxious. Last minute tips for our gradual building lowers fear. Help the child feel “connected to his/ entry week?” P. her” school. No. I haven’t a single tip. I’ll be quietly sobbing in the car If your child will be walking, model safe walking to the (“My baaaaaaaaaby!”) the whole way home from drop-offs on school. If they will be taking the bus, show them where they the first day (and not just for my son, I’ll be doing it with every will meet their bus both before and after school. Develop a single daycare-graduate drop-off). That’s why I sought the healthy sense of safeguard that you want your children to have. help of Brenda Simpson, a Therapist at the Kamloops Centre Too many “Be carefuls” may arouse an unhealthy fear instead of for Therapy, and retired District School and Family Consultant, the healthy sense of precaution you want them to have. Educational Consultant, High School Counsellor and teacher. Purchase the lunch kit, some special school supplies and Read on, Kamloops Mommas, for Brenda’s sage, grounded, and school clothes. These shopping trips help encourage excitebased-in-experience advice. ment and a positive anticipation. Kindergarten Anxiety and Raising Self-Esteem Arrange play dates with children you know will be in your Anxiety is a normal and common part of childhood. In most child’s classroom. Having friends at school secures reassurcases it is temporary, triggered by a specific stressor. Separaance. tion Anxiety often occurs in kindergarten. Everything is new Introduce your child to neighborhood children who attend and exciting and unknown. At this age (ages 3 – 6) children the same school. The more people your child is familiar with struggle to understand themselves; reality, fantasy, emotions, the less nervous the child will be. Children “make meaning” life and death. Imaginative play is a focus.

of their experiences through interactions with parents, with teachers and other children. Familiarity lowers anxiety.

Self –esteem

Children need positive realistic self-esteem in order to develop their individual potential. The way they feel about themselves is related to their ability to learn. A child with high self-esteem feels good about themselves. Parents are instrumental in building self-esteem A parent builds self-esteem by: Being consistent; the child knows what to expect and what is predictable. Bed times are consistent and sleep patterns established. A child needs a minimum of 10 hours of sleep during the week. Provide a “safe home.” A stable home gives children a sense of security. Children need their basic needs met. Then they feel safe. A feeling of safety let them try new things and learn about themselves. Parental acknowledgement of the child’s existence. When children know they are important, their self-worth is validated. If they feel respected and loved inside a family, they find it easier to make friends outside the family. They have a sense of belonging; so necessary for social development. Words of encouragement and positive comments such as; “I like what you did.” “I like what you said;” “I have confidence in you;” “Let me know what you decide.” These examples express your unconditional regard for you child and also your confidence in them. These words build a sense of individuality and encourages your child to validate their sense of worth. Use “feeling” words. By accepting your child’s feelings, you help them learn to respect the feelings of others. If your child is acutely anxious, do not scold or ridicule his/her distress and do not try to bribe him/her into behaving. Just remain cheerful and reiterate that you will be back to pick him up at the end of the school day. Remind him that he will be learning exciting new things and take some time to have him talk to the teacher. Stay Calm! A nervous parent or a parent who feels fear projects this on the child. If you are confident in your child and you recognize that the transition to kindergarten will be an easy one, your child will “feel” your confidence and admiration. Be sure that your verbal and non-verbal messages agree. Is what you are saying what you really believe? When it comes to the “good byes” at the classroom door, wish your child “a good day,” cheerfully and briefly. Exchange affection and then leave. Remind your child when you will return and make sure you are not late in collecting your child. Hovering at the classroom door encourages dependence and discounts your child’s ability to make the transition from parent to teacher. ** Please note in some cases, however, anxiety in children can be persistent and intense, and can interfere with a child’s daily routines and activities such as going to school, making friends, or sleeping. When anxiety in children is constant and serious and does not go away with reassurance and comfort, it is classified as an anxiety disorder and medical and/or psychological support may be necessary. “Aunty” Erin Mitchell is a proud nurse, momma, and owner of Aunty’s House Registered Family Daycare. She is currently working on a degree in child and adolescent psychology through TRU.

Do you have a question for ‘Aunty’ Erin? Contact her at cdnnurse1995@yahoo.ca. 24

UV Groovy Days: Raising Awareness About the Risks of UV Exposure and Eyes. By Dr. Lindsay Williston

id you know that you get more ultraviolet (UV) exposure by the time you’re 16 than during the rest of your life? Studies show that children’s retinas absorb more harmful UV rays than those of adults. While people are concerned about their own eye protection, they often forget about their kids’ eyes. UV damage can leave their eyes itching, watering, red or swollen, and even sensitive to light. Short exposures can have the same effect as a single long exposure, causing growths on the front of their eyes. No one likes to think about future risks, but exposure to UV increases a child’s chances of developing cataracts and macular degeneration later in life. Parents who understand the need for sunscreen on skin are often unaware of the importance of sun protection for their children’s eyes. Early detection is key. The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends that all children have a complete eye exam by age three. No time is too soon. Until the age of eight,

the connections from the eyes to the brain are still being formed, so it’s important that vision concerns be detected and treated early. In an effort to increase awareness about the damaging effects of UV and to encourage all children to wear sunglasses, Kamloops Family Vision Clinic is offering FREE sunglasses to all children under age 5 for their annual UV Groovy Day on August 14. Everyone is welcome and no purchase is necessary. There will be free snacks as well as activities and crafts for the children. Dr. Lindsay Williston is an optometrist at Kamloops Family Vision Clinic.

You Are How You Eat: How Diet Affects Your Child’s Behaviour

Provided by Nature’s Fare Markets

ttention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a behavioural disorder that presents itself in approximately 8%-10% of school aged children. While most children will experience incidences of high level excitement and anxiety, children with ADHD will experience these symptoms over a longer period of time and in situations that do not necessarily warrant such feelings. ADHD causes children to have difficulty focusing, trouble with completing tasks, and to act without thinking. It can be hard for a parent of a child with ADHD to understand why their child is having problems academically and socially, however the symptoms of ADHD make it very difficult for affected children to exhibit the skills necessary to complete schoolwork or to make friends. ADHD can cause a child to become forgetful, make careless errors in schoolwork, and have difficulty staying organised or following instructions. Other symptoms include trouble staying still, blurting out answers before hearing the full question, lack of patience, and difficulty playing quietly. Some scientists have suggested that there may be a link between ADHD and certain types of dietary inclusions. Some hypothesize that something as simple as a deficiency in certain nutrients could be the cause of ADHD symptoms. Protein, for example, is used in the body to make neurotransmitters – chemicals that are released by brain cells for communication – and for preventing surges in blood sugar levels. A simple explanation for some unexplainable behaviour may be that a lack of protein is causing ADHD symptoms. Other studies have suggested deeper connections between diet and the occurrence of ADHD. There is research that suggests that there is a link between ADHD and children who eat a Western style diet high in saturated fats, sodium, and refined sugars and lacking omega 3 fatty acids, fiber and folate. This is linked to the idea that ADHD is a relatively new condition that has arisen primarily in Western countries that have adopted such a style of eating. Additionally, studies have shown that certain types of food colourings and preservatives actually increase hyperactive behaviour in children. Specifically, sodium benzoate, FD&C yellow #6, D&C yellow #10, FD&C yellow #5 and FD&C red # 40 have all been shown to cause ADHD type symptoms in children. The trouble is that many of these additives are not required to be listed on the manufacturer’s label and as such could be hiding in any number of foods that children are consuming on a regular basis.

“Often omega 3 essential fatty acids, magnesium, b-complex vitamins and probiotics, in conjunction with a highly nutritious, low sugar diet free from chemical preservatives, artificial colouring and flavour, can help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD.” German researcher Hertha Hafer proposed the idea that phosphates may be the crucial tie between diet and the occurrence of ADHD. Phosphate is a nutrient essential to good health; however it is also an additive that is used abundantly in the food industry. It can be found in preservatives, emulsifiers, thickeners, stabilizers, and phosphoric acid. Hafer has suggested that although phosphate is an essential nutrient, its overuse is causing occurrences of ADHD in children. This is because excess phosphate can cause a mineral deficiency in the body, which in turn can lead to nervous system troubles and ADHD symptoms. Sensitivity to phosphates appears to be a hereditary condition, which would explain why only certain children are affected by ADHD. The most widely used treatment for ADHD is prescription drugs. The two most commonly prescribed drugs are methylphenidate and d-amphetamine, otherwise known as Ritalin and Dexedrine. Dr. Leo Galland, an internationally recognized leader in integrated medicine, advocates for the use of diet to control ADHD symptoms rather than the aforementioned drugs. Dr. Galland recommends eliminating as many sugary foods as possible, as sugar not only causes hyperactive behaviour but also degrades the quality of other foods consumed and can be a cause of aggravation for other potential food intolerances. Another prominent name in the study of ADHD is Dr. Benjamin Feingold, a pediatrician from California who determined that salicylates, which are the basis of most chemical preservatives and artificial colours and flavours, caused children to exhibit hyperactive behavior. Shortly after this information was published, The Hospital for Sick Children in London corroborated Dr. Feingold’s findings by reporting research that found that most children with ADHD were salicylate sensitive and that of those children, 90% also had other food intolerances, the most common being dairy, wheat, soy, corn, and eggs. Dr. Galland asks his patients a series of questions to determine if a particular child is dealing with food intolerances and allergies that may be causing ADHD. First, he determines how nutritious the child’s diet is, and what needs to be added or removed to provide more nutrients. Second, he determines whether the child has any other food allergies. Finally, he determines what supplements the child may need to support the nutrition gained from food. Often omega 3 essential fatty acids, magnesium, b-complex vitamins and probiotics, in conjunction with a highly nutritious, low sugar diet free from chemical preservatives, artificial colouring and flavour, can help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD.

Notes from a

Boho Momma By Amanda Barker

ello Mommas! I hope you are all enjoying summer as much as I am! With the warm sun and sticky heat, our family is always in the backyard, swimming pool or walking barefoot ; threatening stings, burns, scrapes and stepping on wasps! So last week during our herb workshop we rediscovered an old friend that is usually known as a weed (‘a wild plant growing where it is not wanted..’) that has traditionally been used as a healer with super power potential. Plantain salve can heal bee stings, bug bites, eczema, sunburns and a poultice made from plantain can even draw out splinters, dirt, infection and even venom from fresh bites. If you are in a hurry and just got stung by stinging nettles, just look for plantain (it can usually be found close by), chew the leaves and place it on the irritation. Here is a recipe for a Plantain infusion and salve that we made in our workshop, and since Plantain is an astringent herb, it is also used to treat diaper rash, blisters and those dreaded postnatal hemorrhoids.

Infusion:

Place 2 cups of fresh, clean and DRY Plantain leaves into a Mason jar, making sure leaves and jar are as dry as possible since water will cause mold to grow. You can even place the leaves on a cookie sheet and put in the oven on very low heat so the leaves will wilt a little and lose some of their moisture. Fill the jar with olive oil to the top and make sure all of the leaves are covered. Place in a cool and dark place for up to 6 weeks, give the jar a shake once a day if you remember and then strain and pour the oil into a new glass jar for future use.

Salve

Take 1 part beeswax, 2 parts Plantain infused Olive oil, and 1 part Shea butter (or cocoa butter, coconut oil, etc..) and melt together over medium heat with a double boiler. Heat until the wax, oil and butter until they are completely melted and stir thoroughly. Pour the hot liquid into glass jars (I like the 50-100ml size) and let sit until the salve solidifies. Amanda Barker is a herbalist, doula, CBE, and owner of Ovio Organico skin care and Boho Birth. abarker54@gmail.com.

Community Resource Directory Activities & Events

Children’s Retail

4Cats Arts Studio

Lizzie Bits Baby Co.

River City Gymnastics

Mulberry Bush Kids Stuff

The Best, Most Fun Art Studio Ever! Register now for summer camps 778.471.6335 kamloops@4cats.com 4cats.com/kamloops

Cloth diapers, unique children’s items, high quality children’s consignment 205-450 Lansdowne 250.374.8706 www.lizziebaby.ca

After School Academy featuring sports Gently Loved Consignment & New Items and fine arts activities. NEW Location: 538 Tranquille Rd 778.471.5767 www.rivercitygymnastics.ca 250.376.2423 www3.telus.net/mulberrybush Davison Orchards Country Village September Harvest Festival U-pick apples, free apple tasting, orchard tours, canning demos and more! Vernon, BC davisonorchards.ca 250.549.3266

Enchanted Teacup

Princess Parties, Theme Parties, Tea Parties & more! 250.376.8327 420 Tranquille Rd www.EnchantedTeacup.com

Lil Monkey’s Treehouse

Play and Discovery Centre 701-1801 Princeton HWY 250.377.PLAY www.lilmonkeystreehouse.com

Pegames.org

Your #1 online source for fun Physical Education Games. www.pegames.org

Sun Peaks Resort

Family festivals all summer long! 1 800 807 3257 www.SunPeaksResort.com

U.V. Groovy Days

Tumbleweed Toys

Safe, Sustainable & Inspired toys, games, puzzles and more. Sahali Mall 250.372.3500 www.TumbleweedToys.ca

Construction Oswell Construction Ltd.

Call for all your home renovation needs! 250.819.1979 oswellconstruction@gmail.com

Dance Academy of Dance

Dance for ages 2 and over. Register now for fall classes! 250.314.9974 www.theacademyofdance.ca

Akimbo Dance Studios

Classes for ages 2 and up. Boys Only Breakdance and Hip Hop. 765 Lansdowne St. 250.374.5404 www.akimbodancestudios.com

Bishop Dance Productions Dance classes for all ages. 1417B Lorne St. 250.828.7137 info@bishopdance.com www.bishopdance.com

Free sunglasses for kids 5 and under www.eyerecommend.ca/sunglass-cove August 14, Kamloops Family Vision Clinic Family Resources 613 Lansdowne St 250.374.8755

Valleyview Skating Club

New National CanSkate Program 250.314.0802 www.vvsc.ca vvsc.registrar@gmail.com

Childcare and Preschool

Big Brothers Big Sisters

821 Seymour St 250.374.6134

Child Care Subsidy Program Assistance with day care costs 1.888.338.6622

Interior Community Services Kamloops Child Development 250.554.3134 Society Safe and inclusive child care and Ministry of Children & Family Serearly learning programs vices 250.371.3600 www.cdckamloops.com 250.376.2233 River City Gymnastics

Parent Helpline

SunShine Early Learning Center

Blackwell Dairy Farm Inc.

1.888.603.9100 Gymnastics and mutli-sport facility 778.471.5767 www.rivercitygymnastics.ca Food and Beverage Where every child shines their brightest 2639 Rosewood Ave, Brock Ieashia@telus.net

Your local dairy for 100 years! www.blackwelldairy.com 250.573.4747

Nature’s Fare Markets

Organic and Natural Foods Grocer 5-1350 Summit Drive 250.314.9560 www.naturesfare.com

Specifically Tea

Loose leaf tea and tea accessories. 925-C Laval Crescent (Corner of The Wine Shoppe) www.specificallytea.ca 250.851.0604

Health & Wellness Kamloops Medical Aesthetics and Day Spa - Rejuvenate & Restore Your Youthful Potential. 754 Seymour St kma.karen@gmail.com 250.377.3077

Kix for Chix

Ladies non-competitive kickboxing for EVERY woman! 3 - 953 Laval Crescent 250.819.4121 www.kix4chixkamloops.ca

Laser Quit Cold Laser Clinic

Stop smoking therapy, Appetite suppression therapy, Stress relief therapy 250.571.9879 www.laserquittherapy.ca

Lighthouse Child & Family Therapy Specialising in play and expressive therapy for children Rachel Pasemko 250.318.0652

rachel@lighthousechildandfamilytherapy.com

Musings and Mud Coaching Studio

Workshops, workbooks, personal coaching with a creative twist. Janet L. Whitehead, certified professional coach janet@musingsandmud.com 250.376.8402 www.musingsandmud.com

The Pilates Tree

Now offering one week of unlimited pilates classes for $50! 101-409 Seymour St. 250.320.BODY (2639) info@thepilatestree.com

Yoga Loft

Yoga for You.Yoga for Your Family.Your Yoga Community. 201- 409 Seymour Street 250.828.6206 250.319.8583 info@youryogaloft.com www.youryogaloft.com

Home-based Sales and Services Princess House Canada

Rox-ann Haines, Consultant 250.574.4233 inkedroxstarr@shaw.ca www.myphproducts.com/inkedroxstarr fb/princesshousewithinkedroxstarr

Spooner Sisters Designs

Fashionable, custom products lovingly made for mom and baby www.spoonersisters.com www.facebook.com/spoonersistersdesigns

Music Kamloops Symphony Music School

Group classes and private instruction for all ages and levels. 250.372.5000 Station Plaza #3-510 Lorne St.

Community Resource Directory Long & McQuade Music Education Music lessons for all ages, stages, and styles. Register for music lessons today! 250.828.2315 www.long-mcquade.com

Music for Young Children

The High Note in Music Learning MYC is the ideal way for kids to learn to play piano in an effective, supportive and fun way. Now offered at Kamloops Symphony Music School 250.372.5000

Medical Services Healthlink BC 811 Royal Inland Hospital 250.374.5111 Walk-in Clinics: Northshore Treatment Centre

700 Tranquille Rd 250.554.4265

Summit Medical Clinic

5 - 1380 Summit Drive 250.374.9800

Kamloops Urgent Care Clinic

#4 - 910 Columbia Street 250-371-4905

Online Resources Access Kamloops

StrongStart Programs (during school year)

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, 8:30-11:30 Wed, 12-2:30 Arthur Hatton Elem. 315 Chestnut Ave., 250.376.7217

Your resource for child passenger safety and cloth diaper education. Jennifer Harbaruk 250.572.1717 www.welcometothebabyhood.com

Dragon Flies

Photography

Mon-Fri, 8:30-11:30 Marion Schilling Elem., 2200 Park Dr. 250.376.2027

Eagles’ Nest

Mon-Fri, 8:45-11:15 South Sahali Elem., 1585 Summit Dr. 250.374.2451

YMCA Child Interactive Centre Mon-Fri 9-12 Southwest Y/CCRR Unit E, 1420 Hugh Allan Dr 250-372-7791

Prenatal and Postpartum Care Birth Matters - Jodi Anderson

Doula and Childbirth Educator birthmatters.doula.prenatal@gmail.com 250.372.3733 250.819.2099

The online resource to all things familyfriendly in Kamloops. www.kamloopsparents.com elizabeth@kamloopsparents.com

Breastfeeding Centre

MakeChildrenFirst.ca

CBWellness.Com Pregnacy Programs

Parent-Child Groups Attachment Parenting

2/month - days and locations vary 250-376-4723

Family Tree Drop-in

Mon and Wed 9-4 283 West Victoria St. 250.377.6890

Healthy Beginnings

Tues 9:45-11:45 / Thurs 10:30-12:30 Interior Indian Friendship Society 2355 Parkcrest Ave. 250.554.3134

Kamloops Connexions

Fri 9:30-11:30, 700 Hugh Allen Drive S.W. Community Church 250.828.1114 coffee-connexions@hotmail.com

Kamloops Wiggles and Giggles Adoption Playgroup

Monthly, Deanna, jones_A@telus.net

Next Steps

Fri, 1-2:20, Kamloops Public Health Unit 519 Columbia St. 250.851.7300

Welcome to the Babyhood

Bumblebees

Boho Birth A regularly updated directory connecting people with a variety of not-for-profit Doula services & prenatal education Amanda Barker 250.376.8331 resources. www.accesskamloops.org bohobirth@gmail.com KamloopsParents.com

Map of Family & Breastfeeding-friendly businesses in Kamloops 250.554.3134 www.makechildrenfirst.ca

www.tinyblessingsprenatal.com

Drop in breastfeeding info and help Kamloops Health Unit 519 Columbia St 250.851.7300 Mon 1- 4, Thurs 9 - 12

Ann Weninger Photography

Modern-vintage photography for the whole family www.annwphotography.ifp3.com

Aria Arts & Photography

Fresh. Fun. Connected. www.ariaartsandphotography.ca info@ariaartsandphotography.ca 250.579.9604

Captured Memories Photography www.captured-memories.ca hrsayers@gmail.com 250.320.6558

Life Unfolding Photography

Photography for all your little wild things Moms with Camera’s facilitator www.lifeunfolding.ca

Milk & Honey Photography

Lisa DiGeso milkandhoney@mail.com www.milkandhoneyphotography.ca

Real Estate and Investments Karen Lanoue

Canadian Scholarship Trust Boost your post-secondary education savings by $7200 karen.lanoue@cstresp.com 250.573.2299

*Aqua Prenatal * Watsu * Prenatal Journey Ken Featherstone, Realtor * Pregnant Pauses Royal LePage Westwin Realty Free Consultation ph: 250 374 7383 Personal Real Estate Corp. 250.374.1461 Mighty Oak Midwifery kenfeathetone@royallepage.ca Personal, professional, woman-centered 250.828.7829 maternity care. 250.377.8611 Rick Jackson www.mightyoakmidwifery.ca Invest in your child’s future!

Pregnancy Care Centre

A faith based charity that offers support and education for all people impacted by a crisis pregnancy. 200535 Tranquille Rd. www.mypregnancychoices.ca info@mypregnancychoices.ca

Investor’s Group 250.372.2955 Rick.Jackson@investorsgroup.com

Tiny Blessings Prenatal

Prenatal education focusing on late pregnancy, labor & delivery, breastfeeding, & newborn care. 250-819-0510

Community Events Calendar

presented by:

Visit www.KamloopsParents.com for a complete, up-to-date calendar of family-friendly events! August 1(Cont): Shambhala Buddhist Meditation Sat 9:30am, Mon + Thurs 7:00pm, 433b Lansdowne St. kamloopsshambhala.org August 1(Cont): Free Admission to the Kamloops Art Gallery Thurs, 10am-9pm August 1(Cont): Free Children’s Summer Theatre Riverside Park. Tue-Sat at 1 & 3pm (until Aug 24th) August 1(Cont): Parks and Play Program McLean Tot Lot. Thurs 1-3pm (until Aug 29th) August 1(Cont): Weekly DropIn Summer Reading Club Kamloops Library. Thurs 2-4pm (until Aug 22nd) August 1(Cont): Project X-Fest 2013 Prince Charles Park. Daily performances (except Sunday) until Aug 10th August 1(Cont): Music in the Park Rotary Bandshell at Riverside Park. Daily at 7pm until Aug 31st August 2-5th: Canada’s Alpine Blossom Festival Sun Peaks Resort. August 2(Cont): Family Storytime Kamloops Library. Fridays 10:15-10:45am August 2(Cont): Family Storytime North Kamloops Library. Fridays 10:15-10:45am

August 2: Mighty Oak Mom’s Morning Out Heritage House at Riverside Park. 11-1pm August 2-4: Kamloopa Pow Wow Tk’emlups Secwepemc Pow Wow Arbour Grounds August 3(Cont): Saturday Kamloops Farmers Market 200 Block St Paul Street. 8-12pm August 3(Cont): Artisan’s Square St Andrews on the Square. Sat 8:30am-12:30pm August 3: “Reach the Peak” Tod Mountain Summit Hike Sun Peaks Resort August 3: Beat the Heat Free Skate Brock Arena.11-1pm (free) August 3: Outdoor Movie: Despicable Me Sun Peaks Resort. 8:30pm August 4: Logan Lake Day Celebration 31 Chartrand Ave., Logan Lake August 4(Cont): Flea Market Tk’emlups Secwepemc Pow Wow Arbour Grounds. Sundays 8-2pm August 4(Cont): Sun Peaks Farmers’ Market Sun Peaks Resort. Sundays 9:30-1:30pm August 4(Cont): Farmers Market BC Wildlife Park Parking Lot. Sundays 10-2pm August 5: Open House at

Highland Valley Copper Logan Lake. 8:30-3:30pm. 250.523.3802 August 5: BC Bears Birthday BC Wildlife Park. 9:30-5:00pm August 6(Cont): BIG Little Science Centre 655 Holt Street. Tuesday-Saturday 10-4pm. August 6(Cont): Parks and Play Program Moose Tot Lot. Tues 1-3pm. (until Aug 27th) August 7(Cont): Parks and Play Program Sherbrook Tot Lot. Wednesdays 10-12pm. (until Aug 28th) August 7(Cont): Wednesday Kamloops Farmers Market 400 Block Victoria Street. 8-2pm August 7(Cont): LEGO Night Kamloops Library. Wednesdays 6:00-7:30pm August 9-11: 2013 Rotary Ribfest Riverside Park 11-9pm August 10: Hot Night in the City – Show-n-Shine Downtown Kamloops.10-5pm August 10: Chase CornStock Music Festival Chase Memorial Beach Park. 12:0010:00pm August 10 &11: The Three Musketeers Tranquille Farm Stage, for the whole family. 1pm (Sat & Sun) and 7pm (Sat only) August 12: Outdoor Movie: Rise of the Guardians Riverside Park. 7pm August 16-18: 4th Annual Retro Concert Weekend Sun Peaks Resort August 17(Cont): Tranquille Farm Fresh Corn Maze Sat 9-4pm & Sun 10-4pm August 17: Jo’s Road Race Sun Peaks Resort. 9am August 17: Overlander Days McDonald Park. 10am-5pm August 18: I’m basically “climbing” Mt Robson for

Have an e vent? Tell us abo ut it and w e’ll put it in our Co mmunity E vents Calendar for FREE! info@kamlo opsmomm a.com Find us on Facebook ! charity Kenna Cartwright Park. 250.372.9933 August 20-24: BC Seniors Games www.bcseniorsgames.org August 25: BC Kidney Walk Riverside Park.11:00am August 25: Kamloops Symphony’s Endless Summer Thistle Farm, 5pm. 250.372.5000 August 31: Colin James Concert Sun Peaks Resort September 1: Walk in the Park Ultramarathon Kenna Cartwright, 7am. September 3 (Cont): BIG Little Science Centre 655 Holt Street. Tuesday-Saturday 10-4pm. September 7: The North Face Dirty Feet Mountain Ultra and Relay Sun Peaks Resort. September 8: Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope McArthur Island Park, 10am. 250.314.5980 September 8: Kamloops Off Road Racing Whispering Pines Raceway, 12-5pm. September 8: The North Face Dirty Feet Mountain Run Sun Peaks Resort. 250.578.5542 September 13-15: Women Only Weekend Sun Peaks Resort. 250.578.0207 September 22: The North Face Dirty Trail Run Kenna Cartwright Park. info@dirtyfeet.ca September 27-30: Provincial Winter Fair North Thompson Fall Fairgrounds. 250.578.8327 September 27-30: Interior Wellness Festival Thompson Rivers University. 250.371.1938 September 28 & 29: Reebok Spartan Race Sun Peaks Resort. October 5: Breastfeeding Celebration St. Paul’s Church, Registration 10:30, latch on 11, door prizes and snacks (free)