Autumn 2022

Experience the magic of Christmas past this holiday season. Once Upon A Christmas returns to Heritage Park for eight days of holiday magic. Enjoy the Historical Village warmed by the twinkling glow of Christmas lights, roving performers, a visit with Santa, children’s only Christmas gift shop and Christmas crafts. Once Upon A Christmas is the perfect way to get into the true spirit of the holidays.

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calgary’s child

2022 AUTUMN EDITION

Front & Centre

Sibling rivalry – Guiding kids through conflict 5

We Love Local

Small local businesses for gifts, gear and more. 6

Calgary Cares Calgary Cares highlights local charities, fundraising events and not-for-profits in our community.

Help is just a phone call away 7

Rocky Mountain Adaptive

7

NSTEP 7

Variety Alberta

7

Made by Momma Fall FUNdraiser 7

CONTESTS

Family Fun

From Halloween to ski season 10

Top 10 autumn bike rides 12

Cozy cafes to enjoy with the kids this fall 14

Maker-minded: Raising DIY kids 15

CALGARY'S CHILD CALENDAR What’s happening? 16

LET'S PARTY! Our favorite venues, entertainers and more 18

Planning a party without losing your mind 20 10 ways to make your child’s birthday special 21 DIY your party decor without losing sleep 22

Guide to the Holidays

Activity Advent calendar 23

How to get organized for the holiday season 25 It’s almost time for the season of giving 26 Partners for Safety will help keep your kids safe this Halloween 27

Sensory sensitive Halloween 28

Perfect pumpkin recipes 29

Ages & Stages

The birds and the bees – How to talk to your child about sex 30

Teaching your kids about money 31 Improving communication with your teen 32

Education

Five common homework problems (and how to solve them) 34

4 reasons your child may be a reluctant reader –and what to do 35

Creating a positive relationship with your child’s teacher 36

Family Wellness & Inclusivity

How to co-regulate big feelings .......................... 38

First aid tips to teach kids 40

Teaching kids about 9-1-1 41 10 books to help your child with anxiety 42

FAMILY WELLNESS DIRECTORY 43

Exercise tips for busy parents on the move 46

Top 5 things you can do for your child’s eye health (Advertising Feature) 47

Discussing disabilities 51

5 expert tips to help teens with ADHD 54

Inclusion Alberta’s Supportive Communities: Strengthening Families initiative 55

Accessible athletics 57

10 City of Calgary inclusive playgrounds 58

Parent Connection

Avoiding “elephant fights” 59 6 time-saving tips for hectic mornings 60

Learning about shopping local 61 Back to work battles: When “back to normal” isn’t working 62

Every issue of Calgary’s Child Magazine includes our family-focused features and departments; plus, each issue also includes comprehensive themed directories – designed to provide busy parents with all the information on local products, support & services – all in one place.

Next Issue

2022/23 WINTER EDITION

Ad Booking Deadline: November 2, 2022

Release Date: November 23, 2022

The city is aglow with twinkling lights, the weather outside is frightful, but there's so much to do in Calgary this winter! Don't miss our Guide to the Holidays, Class & Program Directory, 2023 Education Directory, tons of family winter fun, plus events, news, contests and much more!

calgaryschild@shawca

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: M. L. Ellen Percival

Co-Creator: Sherry Kerr – ABC

Assistant Publisher/Managing Editor: Allison Percival

Art Director: Amanda Sharp

Associate Editor: Stacie Gaetz

Distribution Manager: Cathy Bontje

Sales Director: Eilidh Tait 587-888-9556 eilidh.calgaryschild@gmail.com

Cover

Photographer: Aliaksei Lasevich © Adobe Stock

Contributors

Trista Arney

ATCO Blue Flame Kitchen

Lori Beattie

Stuart Brideaux, ACP Katie Edwards

Ashlee Ellerbruch, M.C. Janica Fisher

Ashley Frampton

Julie Freedman Smith Stacie Gaetz

Lisa Kaldenbach, M.A., R. Psych

Tanya Kaynes

Tanya Koob

Janeen Lewis

Sarah Lyons

Dr. Brent MacDonald, R. Psych, PhD

Cheryl Maguire, M.C. Marija Nash Cara Poppitt

Dana Wheatley

Karen Young, R. Psych

CBE, CSSD, Rocky View Schools & Foothills School Division Parents!

Look for our link on your School’s Website and/or Monthly Newsletters: Connect digitally with Calgary’s Child Magazine for parenting and education support, local resources, programs and activities for kids and families. calgaryschild.com (click on current cover)

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sibling rivalry –how do I stop my kids from fighting?

Guiding kids through conflict

By Julie Freedman Smith

“If I was a better parent, my kids wouldn’t argue so much!”

Wrong.

Siblings live in close quarters, and have different temperaments, needs, and emotions. It makes sense that there is conflict between our children. Conflict is natural and normal. This conflict gives our kids opportunities to learn and practice getting along even when we don’t agree. It gives us the chance to teach these skills.

Before we go any further, it’s important to recognize that there is a difference between sibling rivalry and sibling violence and abuse. Violence is not normal. Sibling abuse is not something that kids “just figure out” or “grow out of.” It is critical that anytime there is violence between our kids, we step in and separate the children, keeping everyone safe. It is a parent’s job to teach ways to solve the problem and safely release emotions.

“But doesn’t roughhousing just happen between siblings?”

It may happen between siblings or friends. Our job as parents is to identify it as such and put boundaries around it. When the ‘wrestling’ or ‘play fighting’ is mutual, it’s just roughhousing. When it is not mutual, it is abuse or violence. Establishing boundaries is key. Teaching kids how to communicate that they no longer want to play and making sure everyone knows to stop the play when someone is ready to stop is an important way to teach kids how to play-fight fairly.

When rivalry occurs

Young children (or those who have not yet been taught how to work things out independently) will definitely need our help. When we speak to both children using the same words, we treat them equally and are not labeling anyone as the aggressor or the victim. Moreover, we are teaching them that we believe in their abilities as problem-solvers.

Let’s imagine they are arguing over a toy truck.

What to say:

“I see/hear two kids arguing. Let’s take a few moments to calm our bodies and then we’ll work together to solve this problem. I’d like to hear what each of you feel and need. Both of you will get a turn to talk, one at a time.”

“I can see/hear that you both want to play with this truck. I’m going to put it aside for a moment while the three of us figure out how this can happen in a way that works for all of us. I believe our family can make this work, we do well as a team.”

They may have a suggestion, they may not. If not, you can suggest:

“You can take turns, you can play together, you can alternate days when you play with the truck.”

What not to say:

It’s important that we realize the power our words and actions have over our children. They think we are all-knowing. When we tell them they are something, they believe it. When we tell them they can’t do something, they believe it.

Language to avoid when speaking to the one who is often the aggressor:

“Why are you always picking on your sibling? What’s wrong with you? Why are you so mean?”

Language to avoid when speaking to the child who is often the victim:

“Oh, you poor thing! Your sibling is always treating you badly. You are always picked on. You can’t stand up for yourself, you need me to do that for you.”

Avoid saying this when speaking to both kids:

“That’s it! No one gets to play with the truck. You two will never learn how to behave!”

provide time for a cooling down period (minutes or hours) for everyone before the problem-solving begins.

Recurring battles

Clients can usually tell me exactly what situations cause rivalry between siblings. It is often a certain time of day or playing with certain toys or technology. Perhaps it is when they’ve been playing for 15 minutes and get bored. When we can spot those situations in advance, we can help our kids to plan a way to play that won’t end in an argument.

Talking about it upfront can make a difference.

“I’m going to be making dinner. Often when you play together at this time of day, something happens, and you get on each others’ nerves. What will you say to each other to stop that? Could it be ‘I need my space please,’ or ‘I’m feeling frustrated, please give me my turn.’”

Moving forward

It may take time for your kids to learn how to work together to solve problems. Teach them some strategies and then, as you feel they are getting the hang of it, you can step back and guide them through it.

“Sounds like you need a moment to breathe and then you can start problem-solving together. Who is ready to say I feel…I need…?” Then, when they’ve shared, you can ask, “how will you work together to fix this?”

Eventually (and this may take years, based on ages and stages of development,) “do you two need my help, or can you work it out together?”

There will be times when the kids are very angry or highly emotional. Create space between them and

Kids need our help to learn new ways of being

This is a process and takes time. If you’re not sure how to make it better, you are not alone. It’s way easier to learn new strategies together. I’m here to help you teach new ways of working together as a family. Your kids will thank you for it.

Author, blogger, podcast host and parenting expert, Julie Freedman Smith has been supporting parents across North America for 20 years. Through her company JFS Parent Education, she helps parents find relief from their everyday parenting challenges. Want to know how she can help you? Email her today: julie@juliefreedmansmith.com.

“Establishing boundaries is key.”

Love

We LOCAL

Sensory Smiles –@sensorysmiles21

Blackfalds-based mama of two, Lindsey, shares her love of sensory play through her company, Sensory Smiles. Encouraging parents to engage in play and coloring together, she makes personalized, handpoured crayon name sets, playdough kits, sensory bottles and sensory bins. She also offers custom playdough or crayon party favors for birthdays or classrooms. A unique gift for the little ones in your life.

Flower Culture – @flowercultureyyc

Flower Culture is locally owned by a mother of five, who prides herself on designing seasonal blooms that are primarily Canadian sourced. Located on Northmount Drive, the shop offers a variety of products including handmade soaps, plants, gifts, and fresh/dry flower arrangements along with natural soap, candle, flower and wreath-making classes. The flower arrangements are made with care so you can find that special bouquet or floral inspired gift for any occasion. Learn more at flowerculture.ca.

Great Heights, Calm Minds –@greatheightscalmminds

Great Heights, Calm Minds specializes in counseling and assessments for children, teenagers and young adults. They have created a coloring book that teaches kids about how to calm their body and minds available for free on their website for all to access. Learn more at GreatHeightsCalmMinds.com.

For even more local picks check out our blog at calgaryschild.com

Gilded Spoon – @gilded_spoon

It’s 5pm and the kids are hungry. What’s for dinner? Just ask Gilded Spoon. Founded by Calgary-based, NYC-trained chef Melissa LaMothe (and a mother of two), this company makes nutritious, delicious and kid-friendly frozen meal kits that are ready to cook in minutes with minimal effort required. All products are made with locally sourced ingredients, use zero-waste packaging and are delivered to your door, no subscription required. Available at gildedspoon.com.

Noshi & Nest – @noshiandnest

Brought to YYC in 2021, Noshi & Nest is a small online shop. It's chalk full of beautifully hand-picked, curated items. Shop modern, bohoinspired, ladies and children’s clothing, and accessories. An ever-changing collection of greatquality pieces makes it easy to find something for you and your babes. Learn more at noshinest.ca.

Help is Just a Phone Call Away!

211 Community Connection (24 hours)

Dial 211 to get connected to the community services you need 211

AADAC Help Line (24 hours)

Phone 1-866-33AADAC (2-2322)

Adult Counselling and Prevention Services 403-297-3071 Youth Services 403-297-4664

Alberta Children’s Hospital Child Abuse and Mental Health Program

Phone 403-955-5959

Alberta Health Services – HEALTHLink Alberta 24-hour line providing health information 811

Calgary Communities Against Sexual Abuse

24-Hour Crisis Line and support for people who have been sexually abused/assaulted and their families 403-237-5888

CCIS Parent Link Family Resource Centre 403-266-6686

Children’s Cottage Crisis Nursery 24-hour child care for parents in crisis 403-233-2273

Child Abuse Hotline

Report child abuse-24 hours 1-800-387-KIDS

Community Resource Team 24-hour mobile crisis team 403-299-9699

Developmental Disabilities Resource Centre of Calgary Offers a number of respite options for families with a child with a disability 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, voice message after hours 403-240-3111

Distress Centre Calgary 24-hour crisis line 403-266-HELP (4357)

ConnecTeen – 24-hour youth support line 403-264-TEEN (8336)

Early Start Support for Families with New Babies Seven days a week, 24-hours a day support 403-244-8351

Families Matter Society 403-205-5178

Hospice Calgary Grief Counselling 403-263-4525

Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868

La Leche League

Breastfeeding Support 403-242-0277

Mental Health Help Line

24 Hour Help Line 1-877-303-2642

Mental Health Crisis Line (Mobile Response Team) 403-266-1605

Canadian Mental Health Association 403-297-1700

Suicide Services 403-297-1744

Missing Children Society of Canada Organization dedicated to the search for abducted and runaway children 1-800-661-6160

Parent Support Association

24-hour self help for parents of children nine and up 403-270-1819

Poison Centre Alberta 1-800-332-1414

Ronald McDonald House® Southern Alberta

A home away from home for out of town families with seriously ill children in the Calgary Hospitals – 9 am to 9 pm 403-240-3000

Shelters (all 24 hour access)

Calgary Drop-In Centre 403-266-3600

Children’s Cottage Crisis Nursery 403-233-2273

Women’s Emergency Shelter 403-234-SAFE (7233)

Sheriff King Family Support Centre Crisis Line 403-266-0707

Awo-taan Native Women’s Shelter Society 403-531-1972

Wheatland Communities Crisis Society Shelter 403-934-6634

SIDS Calgary Offers support to families who have lost a child to crib death403-265-7437

West Central Communities Resource Centre

One-stop approach for family services in the SW communities in regards to early intervention 403-543-0555

Women’s Health Resources

Women’s Health Centre 403-944-2270

YWCA Sheriff King Family Support Centre

Non-crisis information - 8 am to 4 pm 403-266-4111

Hospitals

Alberta Children’s Hospital 2888 Shaganappi Trail NW 403-955-7211

Foothills Medical Centre 1403, 29 Street NW 403-944-1110

Peter Lougheed Centre 3500, 26 Avenue NE 403-943-4555

Rockyview General Hospital 7007, 14 Street SW 403-943-3000

Sheldon M Chumir Health Centre - Urgent Care 1213, 4 Street SW 403-955-6200

South Calgary Health Centre - Urgent Care 31 Sunpark Plaza SE. 403-943-9300

South Health Campus - Emergency Department 4448 Front Street SE 403-956-1111

calgary cares

Can you help? Do you need help? Calgary Cares highlights local charities, fundraising events and not-for-profits operating in our community.

Rocky Mountain Adaptive

Rocky Mountain Adaptive is a registered charity in Canmore that provides multiple activity programs at minimal cost to enable children and youth to overcome physical, neurodivergent, and sensory impairments and participate, learn, and excel in mountain sport and recreation activities. The programs enable participants to increase independence, self-esteem, strength, coordination, mobility, motor planning, movement execution, and overall physical and mental wellbeing. The sports participants take part in include biking, hiking, skiing, snowboarding, snow shoeing, skating and more. If you would like more information about programs and bookings, visit rockymountainadaptive.com. Many of these programs require the support of volunteers. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact volunteer@rockymountainadaptive.com.

Variety Alberta

This children’s charity supports children with disabilities and specialized needs. For the past 40 years, Variety Alberta has provided support to families throughout Alberta and has enabled children with specialized needs to be an active part of their community. The initiatives they engage in support the growth and development of children with specialized needs to gain greater independence and positive life experiences. They run six core programs including a Universal Access Program to build Inclusive playgrounds, the Just Like You disability awareness program, and Go Baby Go that supports young children with mobility limitations through modified battery operated adapted ride-on cars. They also run the Volt Hockey adapted accessible hockey program as well as a Sensory Backpack Program and a Health and Wellness program. To learn more about these programs, visit varietyalberta.ca.

NSTEP

NSTEP is on a mission to educate children, youth, and families to learn, practice and apply healthy habits for life. Why is this important? It is estimated that by 2040, 70 percent of Canadian adults over the age of 40 will be overweight and suffering from chronic diseases that are largely preventable. How do they do this? From 2010 to 2018, NSTEP programs/services have impacted more than 55,000 children and youth in 13 school districts in three provinces. NSTEP works collaboratively with meaningful multi-sector engagements, school districts, community organizations, professionals, and others. Healthy habits learned, practiced, applied, and supported will start an intergenerational change to better health decreasing chronic disease. To learn more about and connect with NSTEP, visit nstep.ca.

Made by Momma Fall FUNdraiser

Get your song requests ready for the 11th Annual Made by Momma Fall FUNdraiser to help local families impacted by situations of adversity and crisis. November 4 will be a fun and fabulous evening at Aussie Rules Foodhouse & Bar in support of Calgary’s most vulnerable. All funds raised at this event will directly help families in need in the community. For tickets, visit bit.ly/ duelingpianos2022.

If you work for, volunteer for, or know of a charity that needs some support, please let us know at calgaryschild@shaw.ca so we can share it with our readers

contests

WIN $125 FOR PETITE REVERY!

From the creators of popular sleepwear brand Nest Designs, Petite Revery (Little Daydream) is a new, thoughtful line of playful children’s wear that celebrates all the little dreamers out there.

Founder Tammy Lo was inspired by innocent curiosity and playful exploration when creating this eco-conscious, comfortable and timeless line of playwear for littles ones. Tammy and her team pictured their own kids, their playful personalities and what they envision them wearing in their activities when designing this line.

The new collection, “Into the Woods”, introduces soft layering pieces, plushy eco-fleeces, corduroys, sporty playwear and accessories that are perfect for many funfilled fall adventures. Neutral earth tones in Oat, Radish, Cocoa and Turmeric are comforting, timeless and genderinclusive, and pieces are constructed with fabrics that evoke warmth and comfort to allow little ones to move freely so they can play and explore – all without compromising style!

Petite Revery remains committed to sustainability and continues to innovate to find new eco-friendly materials. The new collection uses eco-fleeces made

with recycled polyester from plastic bottles as well as the world’s first biodegradable polyester fiber, Celys, to make its puffer jackets.

For your chance to win a $125 USD gift card for petiterevery.com, enter at calgaryschild.com (contest code: Petite) Contest closes November 20th, 2022

WIN A PLAYMOBIL® SCHOOL BUS PLAYSET!

With the school bus from PLAYMOBIL®, the daily trip to school becomes an experience!

The realistically designed bus has room for six figures and has a fold-out stop sign on the side. A flashing module is integrated into the removable roof element and can be switched on and off using a pushbutton. A label sheet includes lettering in two languages for sticking on the bus.

The set includes four PLAYMOBIL® figures, a school bus, school satchel, book, pen and other extras. With loving figures and realistic details, the toy set invites imaginative role play.

For more information about this and other wonderful PLAYMOBIL® toys, visit playmobil.ca!

For your chance to win this fun school bus playset, enter at calgaryschild.com (contest code: PLAYMOBIL) Contest closes November 20th, 2022

WIN A HAMILTON BEACH® STAND MIXER!

Ready for baking season? Hamilton Beach® products are thoughtfully designed to make your life easier! Effortlessly mix thick batters and doughs for bread, cookies and more.

With a 300-watt motor, this stand mixer will easily handle the ingredients for all your homemade baked goods from cupcakes and cookies to hearty bread. Includes durable stainless-steel bowl and holds 3.5 quarts to handle large quantities. The slow fold setting is great for kneading bread and reducing splatter when adding dry ingredients to wet ingredients!

For more information about this and other great Hamilton Beach® products, visit hamiltonbeach.ca.

For your chance to win this amazing six-speed stand mixer, enter at calgaryschild.com (contest code: MIXER) Contest closes November 20th, 2022

fun

By Tanya Koob; Photos: Courtesy of Tanya Koob

It’s hard not to feel a bit nostalgic for summer when the leaves have all fallen from the trees and the darkness of late fall starts to set in. Fortunately, there is no shortage of fun out there to pursue through the months of October and November while we wait for ski season to begin.

Add some of these fun activities and events to your calendar this fall to spice up your weekends and spend some quality time together as a family.

Celebrate the fall harvest with a day on a farm Harvest Pumpkin Fest is back on weekends at Butterfield Acres in northwest Calgary through the month of October. Tickets can be purchased online and are valid for a two-hour segment on the farm. Families can visit

the farm animals, enjoy a wagon ride through Scarecrow Alley, and choose a pumpkin to bring home. Costumes are encouraged.

In northeast Calgary, Cobbs Adventure Park is open through the end of October and their popular Field of Screams event runs Friday and Saturday nights. Daytime admission includes a kangaroo petting zoo (with up to 60 wallabies and kangaroos along with other small animals and reptiles) tractor rides, and family-fun games.

South of Calgary, Granary Road is a fun family destination with their Active Learning Park, a giant outdoor playground with farm animals, themed play areas with climbers and slides, as well as several ziplines. Visit weekends in October during their Harvest Days

farmer's market funfarmer's market fun

What's nextWhat's next at Granary Roadat Granary Road

Pumpkin

The best family entertainment in the calgary area!

“Add some of these fun activities and events to your calendar this fall to spice up your weekends and spend some quality time together as a family.”

from Halloween to ski season: family fun to spice up your autumn weekends

Your guide to fall adventures in Calgary

Festival or attend Pumpkin Fest, which runs October 22 and 23. Adults will also enjoy the farmers market on site with many unique vendors.

And finally, if the family wants to get lost in a giant corn maze, The Calgary Farmyard, southeast of the city, is the place to go with more than 35 attractions, animals to visit, and wagon rides. Families can visit during the daytime or come at night during their Harvest Lights event where the farm is lit up with thousands of lights through the month of October.

Play tourist for a day in Banff

Plan a day trip to Banff with a ride on the gondola, a walk along the river, or a short hike up Tunnel Mountain. The town is much quieter in October and November, making it an excellent place to take the family! We often plan half-day autumn trips to Banff with a relaxed start, lunch in town, and then a short hike. It’s a great way to plan a stress-free day in the mountains.

Families can also plan an entire Christmas-themed day in Banff by visiting the Christmas Market or the Banff

Cruise the paved bike trails around Banff and Canmore

If you haven’t biked the Legacy Trail yet between Banff and Canmore, seize the opportunity now before the snow comes. The trail is 20km one way and is easiest if ridden towards Canmore. An adult can always ride back for the car if you don’t want to ride both directions. For a shorter ride, consider the Sundance Trail from the Cave and Basin National Historic Site in Banff. This one is less than 10km round trip and if you bring a bike lock, you can hike further up Sundance Canyon in a 1.6km walking loop.

Go waterfall chasing in Kananaskis

Waterfalls are spectacular in any season, and two of our favorites are very easy to reach.

TROLL FALLS – Start at the Stoney Parking Lot below Kananaskis Village where it’s a short 3km round trip walk to reach the beautiful Troll Falls on a wide easy trail. You can also continue to the Upper Falls for another kilometer return. The trail to the Upper Falls is steeper, but there are handrails and you’ll get the opportunity to walk underneath a beautiful waterfall.

CAT CREEK FALLS – This is a short 2km return hike to a very scenic waterfall. Plan a picnic or bring some hot dogs and marshmallows for a wiener roast at any of the nearby day use areas. Sites that have had firepits include the Cat Creek Day Use Area, Fitzsimmons Creek Day Use, and Lantern Creek Day Use Area.

Visit the Alberta Parks website or the All Trails website for directions for both hikes.

Visit an eerie cave for a Halloween-themed hike

From the Heart Creek Parking lot, it is a short 2km walk (one way) to the Heart Creek Bunker, a small cave that was originally dug out of the mountain during the Cold War era to house important documents. The cave is colorfully decorated with mysterious graffiti, befitting a Halloween themed hike (with costumes if you’re so inclined). Visit the All Trails website for directions at alltrails.com/trail/canada/alberta/heartcreek-bunker.

Gondola for their Spirit of Christmas event, always an annual highlight for my family with visits from Santa on top of the mountain.

Experience wild skating on a mountain pond or lake November is a magical month that locals in Canmore and Banff refer to as “skating season.” Many of the lakes freeze over but are still snow-free and clear for perfect gliding across the teal green ice. Johnston Lake on the Lake Minnewanka Loop Road outside the town of Banff is the local favorite and if you time your visit right (mid to late November,) you’ll find hundreds of families out for a day of skating from one end of the lake clear across to the other end.

Parks Canada has a great page on their website that goes into more detail about skating on the local lakes. It also features specific instructions on how to measure for ice thickness. I highly recommend reading the information before heading out so that you are aware of any and all hazards associated with outdoor ice skating.

The information can be found at pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ ab/banff/activ/patinage-skating

Plan your first downhill ski trip of the season

Nakiska Ski Area is open weekends by Halloween some years, and by mid-November most years. The beginner terrain isn’t usually ready until December, but there’s excellent intermediate skiing off the Gold and Olympic chairs early season for some warm-up laps to stoke excitement for the upcoming season.

Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, and Mount Norquay also open by early December each season with more beginner terrain available.

Happy exploring! There’s fun to be had in every season.

Tanya is a freelance writer and mom to an energetic boy. She loves hiking, camping, skiing, and all things mountain related. She is the author of the blog, Family Adventures in the Canadian Rockies, rockiesfamilyadventures.com.

book by THOMAS MEEHAN & BOB MARTIN music by MATTHEW SKLAR lyrics by CHAD BEGUELIN based upon the NEW LINE CINEMA FILM written by DAVID BERENBAUM

Butterfield Acres

top 10 autumn bike rides

Explore Calgary by bike

By Lori Beattie; Photos: Courtesy of Lori Beattie & Cody Stuart

October is such a gorgeous time of year to explore Calgary by bike. Crisp blue-sky days, 1000km of bike paths and more than 300km of cycle tracks to explore. Choose from afternoon ice cream pedals to full-day urban wild rides. Jump on the LRT with your bike and ride a long and linear route to connect the city in a new way. Here’s some wonderful rides to connect, explore, and discover Calgary by bike!

Elbow River Pathway: Sandy Beach – River Walk –Scotsman’s Hill – Elbow Park

The entire length of the Elbow River Pathway is a wonderful mix of nature and neighborhoods as you cycle from Sandy Beach Park, through Riverdale, past Stanley

Park and through Rideau. Scotsman’s Hill is the perfect photo stop before descending to the River Walk and the Bow River Pathway.

Distance: 7 to 20km

Glenmore Reservoir Circumnavigation

Paved pathway riding, stunning reservoir and Rockies views, and a wilderness immersion make this one of Calgary’s most popular leisure rides. Views are immediate and constant as you follow the paved pathway at the top of the bluffs in North Glenmore Park, into the Weaselhead wilderness and back up to South Glenmore Park.

Distance: 16km

Fish Creek: Shannon Terrace – Mallard Point

Vast and peaceful, a bike ride through the wilds of Fish Creek Provincial Park recharges and refreshes. Follow the paved pathways the length of the park, from the forested west end to the wide-open east end with an option to climb to the Douglasdale escarpment before looping back along the Bow River. Stop for a coffee or ice cream at Annie’s cafe.

Distance: 14 to 33km

Barley Belt Ride

Inglewood is the perfect start for the craft brewery tour that has you pedalling along the 12 Street cycle track, through Ramsay and along the 42 Avenue pathway.

Choose to taste test at more than 15 breweries and cideries before looping back past Stanley Park and the Elbow River Pathway.

Distance: 18km

Confederation Park – Tuxedo Park – Crescent Heights –Sunnyside – Hounsfield Heights

Paved pathways that wind beneath the poplars and alongside the creek in Confederation Park before you connect to the bike lane in Mount Pleasant continuing to the photo-worthy views from the Crescent Heights escarpment. Descend into Sunnyside and detour to see gargoyles and garage art or to take a pit stop at a tasty eatery.

Distance: 6 to 15km

Bridgeland – East Village – Beltline – Mount Royal –Bankview – Bow River Pathway

Connecting the Northeast to the Southwest, these inner-city rides are a wonderful mix of cycle tracks, pathways, and on-road bike lanes. This is a colorful murals, homes and gardens ride as you cycle through the Beltline and into Mount Royal. The views from hilly Bankview are a highlight before connecting to the Bow River Pathway.

Distance: 18km

Nose Hill Park Loop

Views begin immediately as you follow the paved pathway onto the Nose Hill plateau, the highest point in Calgary. Choose to stay high on the plateau or drop down

and climb back up. Highlights include the Siksikaitsitapi Medicine Wheel, the golden aspen groves, and the stunning grasslands.

Distance: 9 to 15km

Bowmont Park – Baker Park – Bowness Park – Calgary Farmers’ Market West – Greenwood – Bowness

Travelling from wetlands to grasslands this hilly ride climbs to spectacular Bow River views. Choose to continue along the Bow River or to navigate Bowness side streets to fill your panniers with local produce from the market.

Distance: 15km, or 22km with Calgary Farmers’ Market West add-on

Arbour Lake to Sunnyside LRT Linear Ride

Soak up big mountain views as you coast downhill along paved pathways past the Royal Oak wetlands, the wilds of Twelve Mile Coulee and into Bowness Park.

Continue along the Bow River Pathway to the Peace Bridge and into Sunnyside where a cafe stop could be the big finish.

Distance: 26km one way. Return on the LRT.

West Nose Creek – Edgemont Ravines – Nose Hill Park Bike past willows along the riverbanks and shrubs through West Nose Creek before winding through tunnels and into the wilds of Edgemont Ravines. Cycle past wetlands and into the manicured ravine park before climbing to Nose Hill Park where a paved pathway descent awaits.

Distance: 20km

Lori is the author of Calgary’s Best Bike Rides, 50 urban cycle tours and pathway pedals and the best-selling Calgary’s Best Walks, the owner of Fit Frog and the CTV Walks segment host. She leads walks, hikes, and snowshoe days with her company Fit Frog. Join her on free library walks following routes from her book this fall. Connect with her and get a signed copy of her books on Instagram & Facebook @lorifitfrog and at fitfrog.ca. Find her books at bookstores and cool shops throughout Calgary.

Sandy Beach

Bowmont Park

cozy cafes to enjoy with the kids this fall

Catch up over a warm drink

By Calgary's Child

As the weather gets chilly in October and November, it’s the perfect time of year to enjoy a hot drink together and catch up with friends (or just have a special outing with the kids). Calgary is home to dozens of amazing independent cafes and coffee shops, and they all offer something a little different – it can be a bit intimidating to take your little ones into a slick modern coffee shop that caters to professionals and students, so here are just a few of our favorite options for kid-friendly cafes to try this autumn!

REGAL CAT CAFE - 303 10 Street NW

Regal Cat Cafe is owned by the MEOW Foundation and is based on the cat cafe concept which has become so iconically popular in Japan and South Korea. For $10 a person, you can spend half an hour playing, cuddling and visiting with the cafe’s current adoptable residents (they rotate every three weeks) and enjoy their delicious coffee, macarons and cupcakes.

If you’re a little too nervous to play with the cats, you can enjoy watching them through the glass from the cafe side for as long as you like. All proceeds from the cafe go to the MEOW Foundation’s mission to care for and rehome abandoned and homeless cats.

HEXAGON BOARD GAME CAFE - 200 - 1140 Kensington Road NW

Enjoy a handcrafted hot beverage (their seasonal drinks are always especially good!) and spend an hour or two playing a new board game with the kids! For $4 per person, per hour, Hexagon has an extensive selection of board games to play (including a great selection of kidfriendly games!) and their knowledgeable staff can teach you how to play each and every one.

LUKES CAFE CENTRAL LIBRARY - 802 3 Street SE

We love all the Lukes locations, but the one in the Central Library is our favorite. Have an excellent coffee, delicious pastry or even a cup of their seasonal soft serve and then explore the super fun Children’s Library and Early Learning Centre for some new books (don’t miss the play area)! You’re free to sit and chat in the cafe and there’s plenty of seating, so don’t worry about needing to keep your voice down – it’s the perfect place for an extended catch-up.

JOYFUL JAVA CAFE - 4039 Brentwood Road NW

Joyful Java Cafe is tucked away in The Village building in Brentwood, but it’s well worth the trip. There’s plenty

of comfortable seating and it is explicitly family-focused, with games and toys for kids to enjoy and lots of space for meetings and get-togethers.

AND SOME FLOWER CAFE - 540 7 Avenue NW

And Some is both an adorable Korean-style cafe and a beautiful little flower shop, with plenty of seating and some truly delicious snack and beverage options. We love their unique latte flavors (try the black sesame!) and their substantial non-coffee beverage menu which makes this a great option for kids. Enjoy a warm drink together surrounded by flowers!

FRINGE COFFEE 4628 Bowness Road NW

This new coffee shop in the heart of Montgomery is a great spot to gather, with an open, stroller-friendly floorplan and adorable swing seats with plenty of table room. Their pastries rotate regularly, but we especially love the cardamom orange cinnamon bun. If you have a little time to sit and enjoy, Fringe Coffee offers an excellent Turkish coffee (perfect for sharing!) brewed with a hint of cardamom that’s hard to resist. CCM

maker-minded: raising DIY kids

Inspire creativity in your kids through creation

By Janeen Lewis

When your electronic gadgets break, does your tween fix them? Do you have a child that builds elaborate housing for pets and dolls out of scraps of craft materials and cardboard boxes? Maybe you’re raising entrepreneurial teens with ideas that could make them the next Facebook or Snapchat inventor, app creator, or Shark Tank winner.

If any of this sounds familiar, you may have a ‘Maker’ on your hands. But what exactly does that mean?

What is the Maker movement?

The Maker movement is a quickly-growing culture that embraces the idea that learning is done best through doing. “It includes do-it-yourself individuals and groups that create things, and its members are producers more than consumers,” says Irm Diorio, executive director of a maker space. While some Makers work in Maker spaces, others tinker in their homes and garages. Some maker interests include robotics, electronics, metalworking, woodworking and traditional arts and crafts.

With increasingly affordable access to 3D printers and computers, technology is often a part of the Maker movement, but it doesn’t have to be, says Irm.

“Everyone is a Maker,” Irm says, and she encourages others to discover the Maker in them. “It’s about finding what really inspires you – gardening, baking, sewing, anything that you would build with your hands. It’s fun and can be functional, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s all about letting your creativity take you for a ride.”

Why do Makers use Maker spaces?

Some Makers discover their community at Maker spaces, where adults and children find the community and supplies they need, including equipment and tools that are hard to store at home. Maker spaces often house equipment like 3D printers, laser cutters, wood lathes, saws, welding equipment and sewing machines. Maker spaces offer community, encouragement and expertise for those working on projects. Maker spaces are also becoming popular in schools because parents, teachers and administrators want to include this creative outlet in the learning process.

How can parents support a Maker-minded life?

How you help your child flourish at being a DIY kid depends on their age. Here are some suggestions that will help guide kids as they grow.

PRESCHOOL:

• Encourage natural curiosities, inclinations or interests.

• Start coding with and without technology (there are lots of ideas at code.org).

• Give them the tools of their trade even if they're in junior size – think miniature tool box with tools, junior sewing machine or real gardening tools small enough to fit their hands.

• Don't be afraid to introduce sophisticated vocabulary – don't dumb it down.

ELEMENTARY:

Create a Maker space at home and fill it with a variety of tools.

• Volunteer to start a Maker space at your child’s school.

• Create an invention station where your kids can do STEAM challenges. Check out a cool design spinner at PBS Kids Design Squad Global Build.

• Participate in a Science Fair.

• Encourage participation in a Maker Faire.

• Have a STEAM closet or basket at home that allows kids to pull out supplies and invent, build, or create.

• Provide a coding robot they can program with a tablet.

JR HIGH AND HIGH SCHOOL:

• Encourage an apprenticeship in a trade or with a family member or friend who is an expert (such as a computer science expert, car or airplane mechanic, fashion designer, seamstress).

• Join a robotics club.

Give them low-cost technology like Raspberry Pi or Arduino to experiment and create new devices.

• Introduce them to conductive thread so they can make clothes that light up, or Makey Makey, an invention kit that can turn items as simple as bananas or staircases into computer touchpads.

Janeen is a nationally published writer, teacher and mom to Andrew and Gracie.

ONLINE RESOURCES FOR THE MAKER-MINDED FAMILY

Makezine com A site for the print magazine, Make, it offers ideas for projects, Maker news, links to Maker Faires and support for all things Maker.

Makerfairecom Shares information about Maker Faires all over the world.

Makered org Provides support for those interested in integrating maker education into learning environments.

KiwiCocom Purchase a monthly service that delivers art and science projects for kids of all ages to your door.

CardboardChallenge com Learn about how to host or find a Cardboard Challenge in your area. A Cardboard Challenge allows kids to make creations using cardboard, recycled materials and their imaginations.

Thingiversecom This website shares usercreated design project files to make using technology such as 3D printers and laser cutters.

Symphony Sundays for Kids Firebird for

The Firebird comes to life with music and dance in this family-friendly concert featuring the Orchestra and members of the Alberta Ballet School to tell the tale of a prince who encounters a mysterious firebird and receives a magic feather that helps him defeat an evil wizard.

Arrive early for the Instrument Discovery Zoo. Hosted by Calgary Phil musicians, each station features an instrument or musical activity for children to try!

calgaryphil.com

calgary’s child calendar

For the most up-to-date calendar of events check out our website at calgaryschild.com

FAMILY FUN

October 14 to November 5; Storybook Theatre's The Lightning Thief - The Percy Jackson Musical When teenager Percy Jackson discovers he's a demigod, he and his friends embark on an epic journey to find Zeus' missing lightning bolt and prevent a war among the gods. Learn more at storybooktheatre.org.

October 18 to 30; Alberta Theatre Projects Presents, Cowgirl Up. Joyce, Effie and BB are cowgirl goddesses on Mount Olympus who lament that the heroines of rodeos past are all but forgotten. It’s a cowboy’s world. Cocky steer-ropers have stolen the spotlight down on Earth for long enough. The goddesses decide to use their considerable supernatural powers to give rise to a cowgirl revolution. Learn more at albertatheatreprojects.com.

October 23, 2pm to 5pm; LD? ADHD? Find Your Path Event The LD & ADHD Network is hosting a special free event at Telus Spark for parents and adults in the LD & ADHD community. Free tickets, entertainment, an expert panel for Q & A on LD and ADHD and information booths. Learn more at ldadhdnetwork.ca.

Until October 26; Dinosaurs Awakened at Wilder Institute/The Calgary Zoo Get ready to marvel at the sights and sounds of these magnificent life-like creatures and see for yourself what Alberta might have looked like when dinosaurs reigned supreme. Entry included in admission to the Zoo. Learn more at calgaryzoo.com.

Until October 27; National Music Centre's Jam Club Join the National Music Centre's free after-school Jam Club program. Youth ages 13 to 19 are invited to jam, practice their skills, and explore their creative potential, all while making new friends, every Thursday at Studio Bell for free. Students can drop in at any time between 3pm and 6pm and there is no obligation to attend week to week. Snacks, drinks, and pizza are provided. Learn more at studiobell.ca/after-school-jam-club.

October 29 and 30; Calgary Baby & Tot Show The Calgary Baby & Tot Show is a premier parenting event designed to bring everything you need under one roof. Featuring local and national exhibitors showcasing the latest in services, products, apparel, and toys. Learn more at calgarybabyshow.com.

November 12 and 13; Chocolate Fest at Granary Road A weekend of sweet surprises, like brownies, cupcakes, hot chocolate, ice cream and more. Take part in the musical-chairs-style cake walk for a chance to bring home some chocolaty goodness or enter the SMARTIES-Pants Choco-Trivia event. Learn more at granaryroad.com.

November 19 and 20; Tracy Drain: Giants of Our Solar System Discover the marvels of our cosmic backyard through the eyes of the robotic spacecraft sent out to explore it at Jack Singer Concert Hall. Aerospace engineer Tracy Drain works at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory to develop, test, and operate the complex machines that uncover some of the countless mysteries within and beyond our solar system. Learn more at artscommon.ca.

November 29 to December 31; Alberta Theatre Projects Presents: The Jungle Book This holiday season, escape into the jungles of India with this vibrant reimagining of the legend of the boy raised by wild animals. Exploring themes of courage, identity, and seeking to understand our place in the world – The Jungle Book’s coming-of-age story is as relevant today as it was when the stories were originally written. Learn more at albertatheatreprojects.com

HARVEST & HALLOWEEN FUN

October 7 and 8, 11am to 5pm; Halloweekends at Calaway Park Join the Boo Crew at Calaway Park this fall. Stroll through Hallotown… if you dare! Dress up as your favorite family friendly character and enjoy a day of fall fun. Learn more at calawaypark.com.

October 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29, 6pm to 11pm; Field of Screams This eerie event is turning Cobb’s Adventure Park into a terrifying, thrilling and spinetingling terror show. Brought to you by Screamworks Inc., this Halloween inspired outdoor event is sure to bring horrifying fear into the hearts of haunted house attendees. Learn more at fieldofscreams.ca.

October 17 to 30; WestCreek Howlloween Contest Visit West Creek Developments showhomes in CornerBrook, Wolf Willow or Legacy to pick up your free pumpkin and carving kit. Carve your pumpkin, then post and tag your photo for your chance to win one of three $50 gift cards. Follow @westcreekdevelopments Instagram for more details.

October 21 to 23; Bearspaw Fall Harvest Market Enjoy everything autumn has to offer with dozens of vendors at Bearspaw Lifestyle Centre. Learn more at bearspawlc.org.

October 22 and 23, 1pm to 4pm; Granary Road Pumpkin Fest This event has loads of pumpkins to choose from as well as homemade pies, perogies, mini donuts, soaps and cheesecake. Decorated pumpkins, caramel apples, pumpkin milkshakes and much more from the Granary Road Market Vendors. Learn more at granaryroad.com.

October 28 to 30; Ghoul’s Night Out at Heritage Park Pick out your costumes, gather the family and get ready to experience this wildly popular, safe and fun-filled Halloween event for all ages. Learn more at heritagepark.ca.

October 29, 10am to 12pm; Halloween Toddle Down to the Art Gallery It’s hard to make time for art and culture when you’re chasing after a toddler, but Okotoks Art Gallery has an opportunity that doesn’t require you to choose. Enjoy exhibitions, activities and crafting stations. Halloween costumes are welcome. Recommended ages one to five. Learn more at activeokotoks.ca.

October 29 to 31; ZooBOO! Included with your admission – join us for our annual Halloween event for all ages. There will be treats for children 12 and younger and for our animal residents. The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo’s Animal Care, Health and Welfare team go all out to share the harvest with your favorite animals. Learn more at calgaryzoo.com.

Thursday, Friday Saturday until October 30; Pumpkins After Dark Pumpkins After Dark is Canada’s awardwinning outdoor Halloween event at Winsport, Canada Olympic Park. Featuring over 6,000 hand-carved pumpkins, this one-of-a-kind walk-through experience is the must-see event of the fall season. Explore the magical pathway of lit pumpkin sculptures and displays, with music, sounds and special effects. With classic Halloween characters, dinosaurs and dragons, movie, and pop culture icons – this family-friendly event has something for everyone. Learn more at pumpkinsafterdark.com/calgary.

Until October 30; Fall Days at Calgary Farmyard A fall trip to the Farmyard is an annual tradition for many families and friends. In addition to enjoying hours of fun on the farm, pumpkins are on display for photos and for purchase. Learn more at calgaryfarmyard.com.

Until October 31, 5pm to 9:30pm; Harvest Lights at Calgary Farmyard All farm activities are open, and the farm is lit up in fantastic display (except the corn maze of course, which remains dark as an added challenge for visitors to find their way through with their flashlights.) Pumpkins are available for photos and purchase in the evening too. Learn more at calgaryfarmyard.com.

Saturday and Sundays in October; Harvest Pumpkin Fest at Butterfield Acres Stroll through the farmyard and find your perfect pumpkins at Butterfield Acres this year. Add in some great animal visits, fabulous fall photo-ops, pony rides, a ride through Scarecrow Alley in the back woodlands (spectacular at this time of year). Learn more at butterfieldacres.com.

GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAYS

November 3 to 6; Signatures Festival of Crafts A uniquely Canadian handmade marketplace at BMO Centre that features the works of artists, artisans, makers, and designers from coast-to-coast. Learn more at signatures.ca/festival-of-crafts.

November 3 to 6 and 10 to 13, 9am to 4pm; Millarville Christmas Market This market was established in 1988 as one of the premier craft and artisan shows in Alberta. You’ll enjoy eight fabulous days of food trucks, music, reindeer viewing, photos with Santa and so many of your favorite seasonal vendors as well as many new vendors at Millarville Racetrack. Learn more at millarvilleracetrack.com.

November 4 and 5 and 18 and 19; Chestermere Christmas Market Two separate weekends to get every item checked off of your list. Learn more at allevents. in.chestermere.

November 5 to 27; Loose Moose Theatre Presents Treasure Island, the Loose Moose Theatre For Kids is a truly magical experience for children ages four to 10, as well as fun and entertaining for parents. Learn more at loosemoose.com.

November 5 to January 14; A Mighty Shrek Christmas. Jubilations Junior presents A Mighty Shrek Christmas –

a production written for kids, and a meal designed with kids in mind. Learn more at jubilations.ca.

November 12 and 13, 10am to 3pm; Bowness Holiday Craft Fair Stop by the Bowness Holiday Craft Fair at the Bowness Community Association to get a head start on your holiday shopping. Local vendors have a wide selection of unique and hand-crafted items. Support a local business and the BCA by stopping by. Learn more at allevents.in/calgary/bowness.

November 12 to December 11 (select dates); Kirks Alpaca Farm Christmas Photos Looking for unique Santa photos this year? Why not include an alpaca? Cost is $30 per child/ adult and includes access to the farm, the opportunity to feed the animals, hot chocolate and one digital high resolution Santa photo. Learn more at kirksalpacafarm.ca.

November 17 to 20, 10am to 12pm; Disney on Ice Enjoy exciting performances by your favorite Disney characters on skates at Scotiabank Saddledome. Learn more and buy tickets at disneyonice.com.

November 17 to 20; Calgary’s Premiere Art and Craft Sale Four days of amazing shopping with some of the best art and craft that Canada has to offer at Telus Convention Centre. Take your time, connect with the artists, and find something for everyone on your list. Enjoy a glass of wine or beer as well as live music on Thursday and Friday night. Learn more at artmarketcraftsale.com.

November 18 to January 8 (excluding Christmas Day); ZOOLIGHTS The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is full of twinkling lights and the classic holiday activities you’ve come to love! This year’s ZOOLIGHTS will feature activities such as ice skating, fire pits, and much more! Learn more at calgaryzoo.com.

November 18 to 20, 25 to 27 and December 2 to 4; Banff Christmas Market With more than 80 artisanal vendors, live music, an outdoor fire lounge, Santa’s House and Reindeer Stables, Christmas treats and warm drinks,

there is something for the whole family at Warner Stables. Learn more at banffchristmasmarket.com.

November 18 to 20; Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market The market boasts an enviable line-up of exquisite gifts and treats for the whole family. With more than 200 independent local businesses, the market prides itself on a unique shopping experience. Begin the festive season by enjoying a day out with family and friends, shop exquisite gift ideas, purchase artisan food, and strol through the winter wonderland of Spruce Meadows. Learn more at sprucemeadows.com.

November 19; 10am to 3pm; Auburn House Christmas Craft Marketplace A great opportunity to purchase amazing gifts just in time for the holidays all while supporting local artisans, crafters, and home-based business owners. With a variety of exhibitors selling everything from unique and custom-crafted handmade products, to all those products and services you love from popular multi-level marketing home-based businesses. Learn more at auburnbayra.ca.

November 19, 10am to 4pm; Shawnessy Christmas Craft Fair Two floors of hand-crafted items and a limited number of direct sellers at the Shawnessy Barn. Learn more by following @shawnessycraftfair on Facebook.

November 19, 10am to 5pm; Waldorf Faire & Artisan Market The annual Waldorf Faire is a warm, festive, and family oriented occasion. Adults will find a fabulous selection of unique artisans in the Artisan Market and for the children, they have heartwarming crafts and activities. Wholesome foods and baked goods are available to purchase in the café at Calgary Waldorf School. Learn more at calgarywaldorf.org.

November 19 and 20; Granary Road Grinchmas A celebration of the magic and mischief. Visit Granary Road for some pre-Christmas fun like Goat Yoga with the Grinch, ride the Max Wagon and watch the Grinch read his very own story until you are green in the face. Learn more at granaryroad.com.

November 19 to 22; Bragg Creek Artisans Christmas Sale Bragg Creek Artisans Christmas Sale provides the attendees with an opportunity to discover unique crafts, decorations, gifts and original artwork by local artisans as they exhibit their handcrafted work at Bragg Creek Community Centre. Learn more at braggcreekca.com.

November 25 to December 31; Glow Calgary YYC presents: Christmas Around The World Santa crosses the globe to bring gifts to the children of the world. Can you help him? Celebrate Christmas magic in China, India, The Netherlands, Mexico, France, and England, all in one night, and all under the glow of a million twinkle lights at Nutrien Western Events Centre in Stampede Park. The breathtaking space is over 70,000 square feet, and brings a majestic winter wonderland completely indoors. Complete your travels with a visit to the North Pole and meet the man himself – Saint Nick! Learn more at glowyyc.ca.

November 25 to December 31; Elf The Musical Beddington Theatre Arts Centre presents this title known the world over. This modern-day holiday classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner elf. After all, the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear. Learn more at storybooktheatre.org.

Weekends, November 26 to December 18, 10am to 4pm; Once Upon a Christmas at Heritage Park Escape to the magic of Christmas past! Learn more at heritagepark.ca

November 26 to January 8, 6pm to Midnight (December 24 & 25, 5pm to 1am); 34th Annual Lions Festival of Lights This year’s display will feature Merry Christmas greetings in 15 languages together with the Candy Canes and Shooting Stars along 14 Street! Learn more at lionsfestivaloflights.ca.

November 27, 2pm; Firebird for the Family, The Firebird comes to life with music and dance in this familyfriendly concert featuring the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) at Jack Singer Concert Hall. The CPO partners with members of the Alberta Ballet School to tell the tale of a prince who encounters a mysterious firebird and receives a magic feather that helps him defeat an evil wizard. Learn more at calgaryphil.com.

December 1 to January 15; Christmas Lights in Legacy 2022 What was once a one-off way to dazzle local residents, has now turned into an annual family-friendly event that brings everyone from Calgary and area. Join us for a drive through the Legacy Community in the southeast of Calgary, to enjoy a wondrous Christmas lights display of more than one million lights.

December 1 to 31, 6pm to 9pm; Airdrie Festival of Lights Located in Airdrie’s Nose Creek Park, the Airdrie Festival of Lights is a beautiful, outdoor walk-through lights experience, with about a million dollars’ worth of displays and other special features. Learn more at airdrielights.com.

For the most up-to-date calendar of events, check out our website, calgaryschild.com. Times and dates are accurate at time of printing; however, changes can occur. CCM

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let's party!

Put the 'happy' in your child's birthday with our favorite birthday party venues, entertainers, and more!

BUTTERFIELD ACRES CHILDREN’S FARM

Phone: 403-239-0638

Email: farmfun@butterfieldacres.com

Website: butterfieldacres.com

Do you have an animal lover at your house? Want some darling birthday photos? Invite some very special guests to your party! Our Mini Farm comes to visit for up to 60 minutes with two young goats, two young lambs, and four bunnies! With the footprint of a small car, it sets up anywhere comfortable for your little party guests… outside on your grass, on a sunny deck, or in your garage. Convenient bookings online at our website.

CALGARY REPTILE PARTIES

Phone: 403-457-2202

Email: reptile.party@hotmail.com

Website: calgaryreptileparties.com

Dinosaur walks, virtual reptile shows, reptile showand-tell birthday parties, and more! Reptile Parties are structured to appeal to different age groups and sizes. Kids meet up close with cold-blooded animals, such as friendly bearded dragons, amazing frilled dragons, colorful geckos, incredible snakes, and even tarantulas and scorpions! They may even come faceto-face with Faith, the eight-foot plus suriname red tailed boa constrictor!

CITY OF CALGARY

Website: calgary.ca/birthdays

We offer a wide variety of action-packed birthday parties for all ages.

FLYING SQUIRREL SPORTS

North location: 105, 572 Aero Drive NE Phone: 403-879-2148

Email: calgary@flyingsquirrelsports.ca

South location: 5342, 72 Avenue SE

Phone: 587-387-5867

Email: southcalgary@flyingsquirrelsports.ca

Website: flyingsquirrelsports.ca

Flying Squirrel North Calgary is true fun for the whole family where the rules of gravity no longer apply!

Form your own extreme dodgeball team, slam dunk like a pro, practice your best aerial acrobatics, and so much more! We are Canada’s premier destination for Birthday Parties! Our parties include setup, cleanup, and everything in between, now with two locations in Calgary!

GRANARY ROAD

Website: granaryroad.com

Your guests can spend the entire day roaming, climbing, sliding, jumping, zip-lining, and much more in 11 overthe-top fun exhibits!

HERITAGE PARK

Website: heritagepark.ca

Host a party that will go down in history at Heritage Park!

KIRK ALPACA FARM

Website: kirksalpacafarm.ca

We offer school field trips, staff parties and birthday parties. Contact us at kirksalpacafarm@gmail.com for more information.

MASTER RIM’S TAEKWONDO

Phone: 587-410-2330

Email: masterrimtkd@gmail.com Website: masterrim.com

At Master Rim’s Taekwondo in Calgary and Airdrie, each birthday party is designed not only to be fun, but also to be educational. You’ll never see kids running around wild or standing around bored. Trained instructors will supervise and coordinate everything from beginning to end.

MENAGERIE PARTIES & CAKES

Website: menagerieyyc.ca

Menagerie Parties & Cakes can create event themes, customized, handmade décor, interactive games, playlists, photo booths, goodie bags, meals, and more!

MNP COMMUNITY & SPORT CENTRE (FORMERLY REPSOL SPORTS CENTRE)

Website: mnpcentre.com

Test your limits and discover your inner ninja with our signature obstacle elements!

REAL CANADIAN SUPERSTORE

Address: Various Locations

Website: realcanadiansuperstore.ca

Planning a birthday party could mean a lot of running around – especially if it means a lot of kids running around. That’s one of the reasons why we offer everything you need under one roof. At the Real Canadian Superstore, you can pick up the cake, the cake platter, the party platter, the party decorations, the party favors, and maybe even a party outfit for yourself because at these prices, it doesn’t need to be your birthday to treat yourself! Not just a store. Superstore.

RICHARD RONDEAU MAGICIAN

Phone: 403-254-8718

Email: magic@rrmagician.com Website: rrmagician.com

Specializing in children’s performances for over 30 years. Richard’s shows are specifically tailored to the age of your group. A large portion of his act allows the children to participate in the show. Age-appropriate comedy throughout and magic that will astound the spectators! Suitable for ages three and up.

SPARKLES SPA

Phone: 403-771-0873

Email: skinsationcalgary@gmail.com

Website: sparklesspa.ca

Get pampered on your birthday! I offer SPA Birthday Parties for kids (four to six children), at my esthetics studio, Skinsation Ltd, in Springbank. A scented bubbly foot spa, a 'yummy' face mask, painted nails, crafts and mini dance-party games are only some highlights to ensure the birthday child and their friends will have a FUN-TASTIC and memorable party!

SPRAY LAKE SAWMILLS FAMILY SPORTS CENTRE (SLSFSC)

800 Griffin Road E, Cochrane

Phone: 403-932-1635

Email: info@slsfsc.com

Website: slsfamilysportscentre.com

Parties at SLS Family Sports Centre are so much fun

- pool, climbing centre, gymnasium, turf or ice arena packages available.

TRICO CENTRE FOR FAMILY WELLNESS Website: tricocentre.ca

Catch the waves, slide down our 316-foot indoor water slide and celebrate!

VECOVA RECREATION CENTRE - BIRTHDAY PARTIES Website: vecova.ca/recreation

We have many different party options for your celebration that will inspire playful imaginations and active bodies.

VIN GOGH PAINT SIP STUDIO

7160 Fisher Street SE

Phone: 403-475-4644

Email: info@vingogh.ca Website: vingogh.ca

Vin Gogh Paint Sip Studio is the place for painting parties! We host parties for both kids and adults. You will get a step-by-step painting session with an experienced artist. You can choose your favorite painting from our painting gallery. Our painting sessions are generally two hours long. We offer a variety of beverages, and snacks that you can eat with one hand. Families are welcome to bring in cake and or pizza. Participants get to take home their original artwork! Let us put the art in your next pARTy!

WILDER INSTITUTE / CALGARY ZOO 210 St. George’s Drive NE Phone: 403-232-9300

Email: salesinfo@calgaryzoo.com Website: events.calgaryzoo.com/birthday-parties-calgary

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is the perfect venue for your child’s next birthday bash! What better way to celebrate their big day than with their closest friends and favorite animals too? Best of all, you just need to book and show up! All of our birthday packages have been created to save you both time and money.

YMCA OF CALGARY

Website: ymcacalgary.org

Boost the fun factor… and the activity level at your child’s next birthday party! Birthday party packages include supervised or instructed activities and use of a party room.

YYC NATURE & EDUCATION CENTRE

Phone: 403-457-2202

Email: yycnaturecentre@gmail.com

Website: yycnaturecentre.com

Connect with animals for the ultimate nature party!

Limited birthday party spots available. Visit our party room at the YYC Nature Centre and meet reptiles, birds, mammals and more. Includes animal experience and room use for presents and cake. Experience nature at the YYC Nature & Education Centre!

Please research carefully and choose the company that meets your family’s needs best. CCM

planning a party without losing your mind

By Marija Nash, Sprog & Sprocket

Parties are meant to be happy – so why stress yourself out when planning your child’s next birthday bash? These few tips will have you planning your kid’s party like a pro!

Staying stress-free during the party planning process starts with a long hard look in the mirror:

• Are you a craft queen or a DIY-did-I-bother?

• More botch than boss when it comes to cake making?

• What’s your budget (don’t just think about money here – how much time do you have available?).

Playing to your strengths and budget is half the battle. Stick to what you’re good at and get some help with the rest!

1 Create guest lists for your kid’s party How many kids?

For a kid’s party aged four and under, anything from five to nine guests is enough to make it feel like a party – but not a circus. For a kid’s party aged five and older, seven to 14 kids is ideal for keeping the atmosphere (and yourself!) alive.

If a smaller party seems like a better time for you and your child, that’s perfectly okay, too.

Make sure to send invitations early (give people at least a month’s notice) and follow-up with the people you’ve invited to get final numbers as soon as possible.

2 Activities If you’d like to have some birthday party activities, start the planning at least four weeks in advance; this gives you plenty of time to plan and source any materials.

When it comes to entertaining kids at a birthday party, there’s no shortage of choice. A quick Pinterest search and you’ll find a ton of ideas – crafts, cooking, cupcake decorating, and, of course, games!

For kids aged four and under especially, if you’re doing a craft, remember at this age it’s about the process more than the product. Don’t be crushed if the littles aren’t producing the works of art you’d dreamt up in your

birthday party plan. Also, be ready for a few non-crafty types and have a plan to keep them out of trouble.

For party games, generally the less explanation you need to give the better, so think musical chairs, red light green light, etc. Twister, scavenger hunts, Marco Polo, and egg-on-spoon obstacle courses are some other great activities for the five and overs.

Don’t forget the music! Keep everyone bopping along by including a mix of kids songs and some upbeat kidfriendly stuff that the adults can enjoy.

3 Decor Try to think about this three weeks ahead. There are so many options and choices when it comes to birthday party decorations these days. Take inspiration from your child’s favorite toy/character/show (they’ll probably give some input here when you decide on your theme) then pull it together with stylish decor from the same color palette.

Don’t feel too much pressure! There isn’t a right or wrong with this. A birthday party that you’ve poured love into is a birthday party that your child will love and remember.

If you’re going to pull out some DIY Pinterest mastery, decide on those projects as early as you can and get started! Or call on your favorite crafty person and delegate a few projects their way.

4Treats and other yummy eats Give yourself at least three weeks before the birthday party to plan or order the cake – whether you’re ordering it or baking it yourself, you will want time to shop around.

Here’s a great cake trick. For my son’s very first birthday party I got so excited planning this two-tiered alien cake that I didn’t have time to bake the cake and still have enough time to decorate it! My inner problem solver hightailed it off to the grocery store and bought a couple pre-made cakes. I came home, scraped all the icing off, and went on to decorate as planned!

The cake tasted delicious, I got loads of compliments, and I managed to just about look like I knew what I was doing (until now).

Whether you do the food yourself or get outside help, think easy. Birthday party food should include stuff that can be picked up with fingers and eaten in a bite or two. It’s the perfect way to keep tummies from growling as the kids play and adults mingle.

I usually keep it simple and make sandwiches cut out into shapes with cookie cutters, a veggie platter with a couple of different dips and a few different bowls of chips. A few other ideas from things I’ve done in the past include apple slices with single serve caramel cups for dipping, mini pizzas, nuts and bolts, samosas, meat and cheese platters and little quiches.

Ask your guests to inform you of allergies and dietary restrictions when they RSVP!

5 Favors I’ve seen a few questions about whether favor or party bags are still a ‘thing.’ Maybe it’s nostalgia, but I can’t help thinking a kid’s birthday party isn’t complete without a little goodie bag!

Give yourself time to think about what you’d like to put in your goodie bags, if you’d like them to match your party theme, how you’ll package them and (of course) time to shop around for any supplies and all the goodies! I’d recommend not going too sugar-heavy –parents won’t thank you if they have to police candy consumption for the next several days. There are lots of little toys and games available at your local dollar store!

If your guests are very young, consider a party favor that is nice for the little one and that the parents might find useful – a novelty silicone teether, some skin-friendly baby bath or a mini soother/security blanket to name a few.

Marija is the co-founder of Sprog & Sprocket. They make celebrations easy with their unique and immersive kids play space rentals. sprogandsprocket.ca.

Birthdays on the Farm

PARTY ANIMALS!

BIRTHDAYS AT THE FARM!

Watch magical memories unfold! Connect with the most wonderful farm animals on the planet. Action-packed, hands-on!

BIRTHDAYS AT HOME!

We come to your home with a Mini Farm or a Birthday Pony! “Best and most memorable Birthday EVER”

Information & Registration at ButterfieldAcres.com or call office 403-239-0638

Goat Milking • Tractor Rides • Pony Rides • Farmyard Fun • Picnic Areas

ButterfieldAcres.com

10 ways to make your child’s birthday special

Thinking beyond the party

By Tanya Kaynes

There aren’t many kids on planet Earth that don’t get excited about their birthday. Friends, decorations, yummy food, cake and presents! But here are some ideas that you can try this year that will really connect with your child to let them know how special they are:

Birthday parade Ask neighbors, family or your child’s friends to decorate their vehicles or bikes and have a specific time to drive by your house with noise makers, singing or honking, shaking homemade signs and holding balloons. Ideally this would be set up as a surprise for your child. A parade in your honor – what could be better?

Road trip Take your child out for the day to their favorite place or a new spot to make memories. (An awesome memory - making trip could be Vulcan. Only an hour and 20 minutes from Calgary and they can have a close encounter with a “real” spaceship!)

Birthday throne Get out the craft supplies and decorate one of the dining room chairs for the birthday child. Imagine their face as they come down for breakfast and see this special chair made just for them. Every meal that day will make them feel like royalty!

Day off It’s still important to make sure your child goes to school, but maybe let them have a break from daily chores, practicing music, math or spelling. Whatever it is, they get a pass for the day!

Little surprises by age Whatever age your child is turning, create that number of surprises throughout the day! You might want to do one surprise per hour, if possible for your schedule. These can be simple things like a special birthday hug, a homemade birthday muffin, a birthday card, etc. Stretching out the celebration through the day will make their special day last longer and it won’t be over in one quick whirlwind of gifts and cake.

Favorite dinner Every kid has their favorite food! Try making their favorite meal together from scratch. A fun

challenge that you can work through together. Here’s hoping it’s delicious, but keep your delivery app close by just in case!

Surprise delivery If their special day falls on a school day, you can make their day by dropping off surprise homemade cookies. Make sure to ask their teacher first and check school policies about treats!

Birthday time capsule Turn an empty jar, canister or shoebox into a birthday “time capsule.” Fill the capsule with photos, toys, momentos and a letter from your child to their future self. Your child will love opening it next year to reminisce about how they have changed. You can continue adding to it each year, marking the years on each of the items you add to the capsule.

Love what they love No matter what it is – video games, collecting bugs, ballet, hockey, chess or painting rocks – do your child’s most favorite activity with them. They’ll never forget it!

Dress up day The birthday child can decide how everyone is going to dress for their special day. It may be a color theme (everyone has to wear their favorite color) or maybe it’s pajamas all day, or maybe superheroes. If you have work and school that day, you can always start this after everyone gets home.

Cake and presents are great, but I know your child will feel extra special with any of the above ideas incorporated into their birthday! Experiences and memories last longer than cake, especially in my house.

Tanya is the Head Curator at Menagerie Parties & Cakes, handcrafting boutique party experiences through custom décor, engaging activities, and show-stopping sweets for people living full, productive lives wanting to celebrate life to its fullest. It’s a Party in a Box! For more information, call 403-890-4803, email tanya@menagerieyyc.ca, or visit menagerieyyc.ca. Follow on Facebook and Instagram @menageriepartiesandcakes.

Kids Art

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DIY your party decor without losing sleep

By Katie Edwards

Pinterest parties are super cute, but who really has the energy to create them? I know you want your kid’s party to be special, but let’s keep it simple. Here are some party projects that achieve the DIY trifecta: they are quick, easy, and inexpensive!

CANDY TOPIARIES

1. Buy a styrofoam ball at Michaels. Put it on a stick.

2. Buy some lollipops and shove those suckers into the styrofoam until it’s covered. Done.

This project serves double-duty because it’s a decoration, and the kids can eat it. Bonus – you get to take out some frustration with styrofoam stabbing.

Try other styrofoam shapes, too. You could make a row of lollipops in a styrofoam brick. Add some paper leaves and you have a lollipop garden!

Also think about other things you can buy in bulk. Tape any candy or small toy to a toothpick, and you can jab those into styrofoam too. Just make sure the kids are careful not to poke themselves.

POSTER BOARD

1. Buy some poster board (it’s cheapest at a dollar store).

2. Cut it up into cool shapes.

Think big for maximum wall coverage – maybe a giant number for your child’s age. Cut out some giant spirals and hang them from the ceiling, or cut circles and fold them into fans. Put your kid to work and get them to paint or color the things, too.

BALLOONS

Balloons are fairly cheap, and can have a big impact if you use them the right way. Instead of hanging one at a time, tie lots of them together and stick the resulting bunch to the wall. If you want something more structured, think about shapes that fit your party theme. You can make flowers, caterpillars, snowmen... anything with round parts. Clear tape is your friend.

TAPE

Colorful tape is also your friend! Both duct tape and washi tape are available in all kinds of colors and patterns. Wrap some juice boxes in neon duct tape – suddenly, they match your color scheme! Take a plain paper bag and get your kids to help you make it stripey with washi tape – voila, a handmade loot bag. Give cheap cups and plastic dishes a makeover by wrapping pretty washi tape

around them. Depending on your venue, you could even stripe your walls or create shapes with bright washi tape.

CARDBOARD BOXES

As we all know, a cardboard box is the best toy ever. But if you can get some big ones, you can turn them into party decorations too! Depending on your theme and the size of your boxes, you can turn them into castles, superhero caves, cars, playhouses or spaceships. Bonus: your guests can decorate them as a party activity!

GARLANDS

Listen, garlands are basically just strings of anything. Look around at the store. What’s super cheap? Can you tie or glue that to a string? Does it fit your theme? Buy it! Garlands can be felt or paper cut into pennants or bunting, but you could also use beach balls, plastic dinosaurs or other lightweight toys. Like the topiaries, these can be disassembled and used for loot bags at the end of the party.

You may want to look around and see what’s available before you decide on your theme. To generate ideas, visit your local dollar store, craft store, or party store. Think about things that will have a big impact with very little time invested. Then spend that extra time having fun with the birthday kid!

Katie is a mom who is tired all the time and encourages minimal effort in all things.

Frights and Delights for your little Ghouls and Goblins

Don’t miss out! Buy your tickets and enjoy a jam-packed, fun-filled, and family-friendly Halloween event for all ages.

Get Tickets at

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activity Advent calendar

Finding the holiday spirit in an old tradition

By Trista Arney

Christmas is coming! While it can be hard to think that far ahead in the family calendar when we still have Thanksgiving and Halloween to look forward to, it’s time to start planning.

Many families start off the month of December counting down to the big holiday in various ways, including the old standard chocolate Advent calendar, or the visitation of a certain spying elf. Companies have started offering themed Advent calendars featuring everything from beer and wine for the grownups to art supplies, bath products, and toys. This year, why not try an activity-based calendar that will delight the entire family?

Before my child was born, I had grown to absolutely hate Christmas. I had worked retail for most of my university career, and I found the slog of Christmas music, commercialism and rude customers (combined with the stress of family obligations) made me dread the holiday. By the time Christmas Eve rolled around, I was completely done!

One year, I tried something new, and the Activity Advent was born. Back before kids, the Advent calendar was just a jar filled with slips of paper that had fun holiday items written on them. Every day, my husband and I would pull one out. These included easy tasks like wearing Christmas socks, getting a fancy holiday-themed beverage, watching a holiday movie, or baking cookies.

Once our child was born, the Advent calendar changed to a fixed schedule. Each slip was marked for the correct day and included holiday events in our community. Eventually, the jar was replaced by a traditional paper ring chain, and then upgraded to our current version –a fabric ring chain with built-in pockets for each slip of paper.

My favorite thing about the Activity Advent is that it’s completely customizable! We pick events and activities that we enjoy as a family and have some back-up ideas on hand just in case. Pinterest is full of great activity ideas from other parents, and Calgary has tons of family events throughout December. For families who prefer to celebrate the more religious aspects of Christmas, feel free to add Bible readings to your calendar alongside the activities. Families can choose to fill their Advent with reading a different holiday book every day, outings,

activities around the house, or mix up different ideas! If your family doesn’t celebrate Christmas, you can repurpose this idea to make a different countdown! Just select the number of days to the event you’re counting down to and that’s the number of activities you need.

season again. This is a tradition our family enjoys every year, and it reminds us to take some time together, even in the busiest season.

HERE ARE SOME IDEAS FROM MY COLLECTION:

• Wear Christmas socks

• Donate a book

• Mail/write Christmas cards

• Decorate the tree

• Visit with Santa

• Watch a holiday movie or TV special (The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, The Muppet Christmas Carol, Muppet Family Christmas, ELF, Frozen, Miracle on 34th Street, Jack Frost, and Frosty the Snowman are all favorites in our house)

• Make/decorate a gingerbread house

CREATING YOUR ACTIVITY ADVENT CALENDAR

1 Build your calendar Slips of paper in a jar, paper rings, fabric rings, small boxes, a purchased (or made) garland of mittens or stockings, a refillable Advent calendar, a custom website… there’s no wrong way to put your calendar together! You just need somewhere you can have your items written down for the family to see.

2 Pick your activities You’ll need 24 or 25 items, depending on if you’d like to have an activity for Christmas morning or not. I suggest having a couple simple activities in case you need to change something last minute due to weather, event closures, illness or just not feeling up to an activity. It’s a great idea to talk with your family as well and find out what holiday/winter activities everyone likes the best. You might be surprised! While watching Muppets Christmas Carol is definitely a favorite in our house, other items like donating to the food bank or writing Christmas cards have been surprise hits.

3 Just open an activity a day and count down to Christmas!

When I began my Activity Advent I was disenchanted with Christmas as a whole, but by choosing to get excited about one small thing a day, I found some joy in the

• Wear Christmas sweaters

• Paint the windows

• Decorate the house

• Fancy Christmas drinks

• Bake cookies

• Wrap gifts

• Make a holiday craft (fusible bead ornaments, photo ornaments, salt-painted snowflakes, paper snowflakes, bird seed ornaments, etc.)

• Go Christmas caroling (or sing carols inside)

• Go to Zoolights at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo

• Christmas light drive

• Try to freeze bubbles

• Leave out a snack for Santa

• Play in the snow (make a snowman, make a snow Mr. Potato Head, make snow angels, paint the snow, have a snowball fight)

• Donate a toy or food

• Read Christmas books

• Go snowshoeing Go ice skating

• Go to a craft fair

• Watch The Nutcracker Ballet

“By choosing to get excited about one small thing a day, I found some joy in the season again.”

Go to Lions Festival of Lights

• Visit Santa’s reindeer

• Go to the Airdrie Santa Claus Parade

• Go to the Festival of Trees

• Visit the Spruce Meadows Christmas Light Drive-Through

• Make gifts for friends

• Deliver gifts to the Seniors Secret Service Christmas Cheer program

• Christmas Mad Libs

• Collect pinecones

• Write a letter to Santa

• Make gingerbread men

• Drink apple cider

• Go sledding

Have a pajama day

• Wear something sparkly

• Look at old Christmas photos

• Go on a sleigh ride

• Visit Once Upon a Christmas at Heritage Park

• Visit the penguins at the Wilder Institute/ Calgary Zoo

• Wear red and green Volunteer

• Take pictures outside

• Build a cardboard fireplace

• Give out candy canes

• Random act of kindness for a neighbor

• Bring treats to the fire station

• Donate blankets to a shelter

• Bring treats to a nursing home

• Donate an outgrown coat

• Dress up for dinner

• Paint the snow

• Play hockey

• Build a candy nativity

• Have a snowball fight

Have a dance party

• Christmas coloring pages

• Have a family board game night

• Look for animal tracks in the snow

• Have a red and green themed dinner

• Make snowman pancakes

• Have a sleepover under the tree

Make a meal for someone

• Have a snowman building competition

• Make Christmas crackers

• Make a popcorn garland

• Wear Christmas pajamas

• Visit the CP Holiday Train

• Go to a Christmas concert

See a Christmas play

• Host a fancy dinner party

• Read some Christmas verses from the Bible

• Visit the Airdrie Festival of Lights

Trista is a stay-at-home mom and loves to share her discoveries about how to make life in Calgary work for families of all kinds.

how to get organized for the holiday season

Get ready ahead of time this year

By Professional Organizers in Canada

As the holiday season approaches, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the whirlwind of shopping and entertaining that comes with this time of year. With a little help from Professional Organizers in Canada, Canadians can focus more time on enjoying the festivities of this holiday season by organizing a few key spaces in their homes and by planning their shopping in advance.

Preparing your home for holiday entertaining:

1. Concentrate your efforts on the areas that will have the biggest impact. For instance, don't worry about the storage and pantry areas or the 'private' rooms, such as your family's bedrooms that will not be used by guests. Concentrate instead on the 'public' rooms such as the dining room, the living room, the family room, and the bedrooms and the bathrooms that will be used by guests.

2. Clear away as much of the non-essential day-today clutter and year-round decorative items as you can, replacing it with seasonal decorations and special touches.

3. Tuck away projects and hobbies that will not be used over the holidays and replace them with games, books and seasonal music that you and your guests will enjoy.

4. Clear some space on the vanity and in the closets where you will be accommodating your guests, so that they can make themselves at home and be as relaxed as possible - it will only add to the festive mood in your home.

5. Ideally, you will have cleared away clutter and non-essential items well in advance of the holidays, but in the worst case scenario, if you need to stash the clutter in boxes at the last minute and relegate it to the basement that is fine, too. That will give you a good place to start in the New Year when you embark on your New Year's resolution to 'get organized!'

Organizing your holiday shopping with some time management and planning:

1. Make a budget and make a list of people you want to buy presents for - don't wait until your credit card is maxed out in December! Determine what your household can reasonably afford

to spend on holiday shopping, then prepare a list of whom you will be buying for and decide an approximate dollar amount to be spent on each person.

2. Spend some time online or going through catalogs in order to come up with several possible gift suggestions. If you are doing this well in advance, online shopping is your best bet as it will save you a great amount of time and you will not be tempted by something above your budget as you stroll through the malls.

3. For gifts that you wish to buy in person, divide that list into two or more excursions so that you don't have to wear yourself to a frazzle on one shopping trip.

4. Ideally, shop at off-times such as weekday mornings or Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings when the stores will be less busy.

5. Alternatively, set yourself a goal of buying one gift each day on your noon hour or perhaps stopping at one store each night on your way home so that the shopping is done before you know it.

Decoration teardown - how to make sure everything is organized for next year:

1. To avoid being the house on the block that still has decorations up well into February, it is helpful to actually schedule a day when you will take care

of this last holiday chore. Schedule the time on the last day before you return to work so that you are not faced with coming home at the end of a long day or week and still having the decorations staring you in the face. You may not have the energy on that last day of the holiday break, but you will have a lot less energy when you are back at work or school!

2. Review your decorations. Are there any decorations still in the boxes that you didn't bother putting up this year? If so, these are the first you should consider ditching or donating as clearly they did not make the cut. If the item is sentimental but you still wouldn't be caught dead displaying it, take a picture of it before you toss it so that you can keep the memory, not the item.

3. Decide how you best like to store your holiday decorations. Do you like to keep all the similar items together (such as wreaths, candles or decorations by color) so that you can mix and match what you use and where you put it? If so, think of broad categories including linens, serving ware, freestanding ornaments, etc., and group them together that way. As you open each box next year, you will have fresh inspiration for how you can arrange your various decorations. Another approach is to pack away all the decorations by room, e.g. living room, kitchen, foyer, etc. This works best if you tend to use the same decorations in the same room year after year, and gives you the option of decorating or un-decorating one room at a time. For this type of approach, it can be helpful to take some photos of your decorations on display so that you can recreate that particular vignette year after year and keep the tradition going.

Established in 2000, Professional Organizers in Canada (POC) is a national registered non-profit association that provides education, business development tools and a code of ethics for all types of organizers across Canada. Individuals or businesses looking to hire a Professional Organizer can turn to POC's website, organizersincanada.com, for the Find an Organizer Directory. This easy-to-use tool allows members of the public to search for a POC organizer by location and expertise.

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By Janica Fisher, H!P

The holidays are a time we love to give. It is also a time where affordability and the expectations of the season, for many people, do not align. This creates the opportunity for families planning their holiday giving to get creative with the many ways we can help each other.

Start planning your holiday giving with a family conversation of who and how you might want to help. Animals, children, seniors, youth… Do you want to give a needed item, or spend time with others, or make and mail a greeting card? The possibilities are many – it depends on your time and interest.

Consider if you wish to volunteer in a formal role (where you commit to a specific time and place) or an informal role (where you volunteer when it suits you best). Talk with your family about the social issues they might want to support like literacy, food poverty, or inclusion. Would your family rather volunteer inside or outside? This type of conversation ensures that your holiday giving includes your family’s preferences.

Many agencies offer ‘adopt a family’ programs, asking for specific items of need. This is a great way to give, but has the challenge of coordinating the items, storing, and delivering the items to the families. Therefore, the

popularity of gift cards is increasing with local agencies. Gift cards have many positive benefits, bringing hope and empowerment to those we serve.

Gift cards allow families to buy groceries that align with their dietary needs and cultural preferences.

Improvements in diet quality occur when families can purchase more fresh fruit and vegetables compared to the less expensive canned or frozen options. Gift cards also enable a parent to buy their child a gift that comes from them, whether this might be clothing, games, or a

book or toy. The joy of buying, wrapping, and watching your child open a gift you chose is one of the powers that a gift card brings.

Most importantly, gift cards provide the ability for families to reallocate funds to other household expenses like rent and utilities.

Gift cards give a homeless person a hot drink or a bowl of soup. $5 gift cards to a fast-food restaurant are popular with agencies. Gift cards are used to welcome new clients, support clients in crisis and as small tokens of kindness. They are also welcomed by pet shelters who can buy specific needs their animals require.

When purchasing a gift card, we recommend taping the receipt to the card. The proof of purchase eliminates any possible issue of the card not registering. Tucking the gift card into a card, a pair of socks or a mitten is a kind way of giving even more.

Other supportive ways during the holidays are giving tickets to holiday events you cannot attend, sharing your musical talents with a senior retirement center, or assembling holiday care kits for those living in shelters. Planning how you wish to share your time, donations and gifts over the holidays ensures that the joy you receive from giving becomes a favorite tradition for you and yours.

If you want to know more about these ideas or other ways that your family can help this holiday season, visit behip.ca or email us at hello@behip.ca.

H!P’s mission is to connect people to causes by creating fun and simple ways to practice humanity.

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Partners for Safety will help keep Calgary’s little ghouls and goblins safe this Halloween

Halloween should be spooky - not scary! The Calgary Partners for Safety have been patrolling the streets on Halloween night for almost 30 years to keep young Calgarians safe while they trick-or-treat, and this year is no exception. From 6pm to 8pm on Monday, October 31, hundreds of vehicles will be on Calgary’s streets providing high-visibility assistance to families who decide to trick-or-treat this year.

The Partners for Safety program’s goals are to provide Halloween safety information to parents and children; and to patrol communities and provide a visible presence on Halloween night.

Coordinated by Calgary’s Child Magazine, the Partners for Safety include the Calgary Police Service, Emergency Medical Services, Calgary Fire Department, Calgary Transit and Calgary Community Standards (Bylaw and 9-1-1). Any child experiencing a problem on Halloween can go to any one of these partners for help.

During regular operations, the Calgary Police Service and Emergency Medical Services will have units patrolling residential neighborhoods. The Calgary Fire Department will also have vehicles on patrol, and community fire stations will be open in between emergency responses as a safe place for trick-or-treaters to ask for help if they need it.

Calgary Transit buses and CTrains are in the community day and night providing essential transit services. On Halloween, if trick-or-treaters need help, they can approach any transit vehicle they spot. Bus and CTrain operators have radios and can contact the appropriate emergency personnel if needed.

Important health & safety tips:

• Keep pets contained and away from the front entrance, or consider handing out treats outside;

• Instead of real candles, opt for LED candles or LED lighting to create that spooky ambiance; Ensure sidewalks, front porches and steps are well-lit and free from obstacles.

Halloween tips for kids:

• Tell your parent(s) or guardian(s) where you’re going, who you’re going with, and when you’ll be home;

• Bring a cell phone in case something changes;

• All pedestrian rules still apply! Look both ways and walk, don’t run, across the street at intersections;

• Trick-or-treat all the way down one side of the street before crossing to the other, avoid zigzagging across the road;

• Wear bright, reflective clothing so you are visible to drivers on the road;

• Avoid shortcuts through alleyways, lanes, or through private property;

• Stay in busy, well-lit areas if possible and bring a flashlight;

• Never enter a house or a car while you’re trickor- treating;

• If a situation or person makes you feel uncomfortable, trust your gut and walk away.

• Call a parent or trusted adult if you’re not sure what to do, or approach one of our Partners for Safety vehicles.

Before you wear your costume out:

• Have kids wear the full costume around the house for an hour or two a couple of weeks before Halloween to make sure the shoes, clothing, and accessories are comfortable (make changes if needed);

Avoid costumes which are extremely dark or all black! Choose one with bright colors and consider adding reflective tape to make sure drivers can see you;

• Pick materials, garments, and accessories labeled ‘flame-resistant’;

• All costume accessories, such as sticks, rods, or wands should be soft and flexible with no sharp edges;

It is frequently cold! Costumes should be loose enough that it can be worn over warm clothing or a heavy jacket;

• Make sure Halloween costumes aren’t too big or long to avoid tripping hazards; the costume should not cover ankles and hands;

• Make sure any costume masks are comfortable

- bulky masks can make it hard to see cars and other hazards or can pinch or hurt; consider switching to make-up instead of a mask where possible.

For more tips on having a fun and safe Halloween, visit calgaryschild.com or Calgary.ca/halloweensafety. CCM

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sensory sensitive Halloween

How to help when spooky celebrations become overwhelming

By Sarah Lyons

Costumes, Halloween parties with sugary treats, trickor-treating, and spooky decorations are fun and exciting for most kids, but for a child with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), Halloween celebrations can be very overwhelming. A child with SPD has trouble processing input from any of the five senses in a normal way –what is background music to others may be loud and distracting to a kid with SPD, costumes may feel too itchy, make-up may feel sticky, and masks may have a strong scent or may be too restricting for kids with SPD.

As a mom of a child with SPD, I have learned firsthand how challenging Halloween can be. My daughter struggles daily to find clothes that are comfortable and are not too distracting. Typically, if we find a pair of pants she likes, I buy as many pairs as we can find. Loud noises or new situations can also be very stressful for her. She has the desire to be part of the fun on Halloween, but as the day approaches the pressure is too much, the costume is uncomfortable, and walking around in the dark knocking on strangers’ doors is scary. I end up frustrated and she ends up disappointed. This year we are taking a different approach to the holiday and I hope these tips help other families dealing with SPD enjoy Halloween too.

Prepare your child Prior to Halloween, talk about how you will celebrate the day. Discuss what situations may be challenging and talk about what will help them feel more comfortable. If going door to door trick-or-treating is scary, do a practice run. Ask neighbors, friends, or family if your child can practice knocking on their door before the day of Halloween so they know what to expect. Try on the costume and make any adjustments needed so that they can feel as comfortable as possible.

Costumes Costumes are usually a huge challenge for the child with SPD but luckily there are a lot of options. My daughter prefers to wear her favorite clothes and paint her face. This is what makes her feel comfortable. Other kids may like wearing their favorite pajamas or other soft clothing under a costume so they cannot feel the itchy fabric on their skin. If your child does not want to dress up at all, try letting them ride in a wagon and decorating the wagon like a car so that they can be part of the fun without having to actually dress up. Other simple ideas may be – using a prop, wearing a silly T-shirt, or incorporating tools, such as noise-canceling headphones, into your child’s costume. Never make your child feel that they are odd because they don’t like to dress up or go trick-or-treating.

Plan ahead Try to be flexible and prepare a backup plan, just in case things do not go as planned. My daughter was very excited about Halloween and even wore her costume to school, but when the time came to go trick-or-treating with her siblings, she was overwhelmed. It is okay if your child decides to stay home and hand out candy, needs to take a break during trick-or-treating, or wants to head home early. Parents may also look for alternative activities that are just as fun. Many malls, community associations or churches offer fall parties that are not scary, are offered during the day, and where costumes are optional.

Halloween can be fun for everyone if families work together to find a way to celebrate that works for all of them. It is understandable that these traditions do not always sound appealing or make sense to kids that have SPD. Consider coming up with your own Halloween traditions such as painting pumpkins, baking treats, or going to dinner or a movie. With a little extra effort, planning, practice and flexibility, Halloween can be something your whole family enjoys.

Sarah is a mom of six kids including seven-year-old triplets. She enjoys reading, writing, and spending time outdoors with her family.

the

perfect pumpkin recipes

By ATCO Blue Flame Kitchen

BAKED CINNAMON PUMPKIN DOUGHNUT HOLES

We added pumpkin and spices to this baked treat. Enjoy warm out of the oven as a mid-morning snack with coffee or make ahead and serve at your next fall gathering. Makes about four dozen.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp cinnamon

1�2 tsp ground allspice

1�2 tsp ground cloves

1�4 tsp nutmeg

1�4 tsp salt

3�4 cup canned pure pumpkin

3�4 cup granulated sugar

1�4 cup canola oil

1�4 cup milk (2%)

1�4 cup packed dark brown sugar

2 Tbsp fancy molasses

2 tsp vanilla

1�3 cup granulated sugar

1 Tbsp cinnamon

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 400°F. Combine flour, baking powder, 1 tsp cinnamon, allspice, cloves, nutmeg and salt in a large bowl. Set aside. Whisk together pumpkin, 3�4 cup sugar, oil, milk, brown sugar, molasses and vanilla in a separate large bowl. Add pumpkin mixture to flour mixture and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.

Spoon batter into greased mini-muffin cups, filling cups

three-quarters full. Bake until a cake tester inserted in centres comes out clean, about 10 to12 minutes. Cool doughnut holes in pans on racks for five minutes. Combine 1�3 cup sugar and 1 tbsp cinnamon in a medium bowl. Remove doughnut holes from pans while warm and roll in sugar mixture.

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 275°F. To prepare filling, place icing sugar, pumpkin, ricotta cheese, flour, vanilla, cinnamon and ginger in a food processor; process until smooth. Spoon filling into each of 10 paper-lined muffin cups, dividing equally. Top filling in each muffin cup with one gingersnap. Bake until filling is set, about 30 to 35 minutes. Cool cheesecakes completely in pan on a rack. Remove from pan. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours or up to 24 hours. To serve, remove cheesecakes from paper liners and place, gingersnap side down, on individual serving plates. Top with maple whipped cream.

MINI PUMPKIN CHEESECAKES

These single-serve pumpkin and gingersnap ricotta cheesecakes are baked in muffin tins. Serve them as a fun Thanksgiving alternative to traditional pumpkin pie.

Makes ten.

Cheesecakes

1 1�2 cups icing sugar

1 cup canned pure pumpkin

1 cup ricotta cheese

1�3 cup all-purpose flour

1 1�2 tsp vanilla

1 1�2 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp ground ginger

10 gingersnaps or spice cookies (about 2 1�2 inches each)

Maple whipped cream

1 cup whipping cream

2 Tbsp maple syrup

1�2 tsp vanilla

1�4 tsp ground ginger

Using medium speed of an electric mixer, beat cream until stiff. Beat in maple syrup, vanilla and ginger just until blended.

Pumpkins aren’t just for jack-o-lanterns. This creamy fall soup is made with fresh pumpkin and flavored with nutmeg and thyme. Serves six.

INGREDIENTS

1 large onion, chopped

1�4 cup salted butter

1 large potato, peeled and diced

3 carrots, diced

4 cups cubed peeled pumpkin

3 cups chicken stock

1 tsp thyme, crumbled

1�2 tsp nutmeg

Dash cayenne pepper

1 1�2 cups milk or light cream

Salt and pepper

DIRECTIONS

In a Dutch oven, sauté onion in butter until softened. Stir in potato, carrots and pumpkin; cook, stirring for two to three minutes. Add chicken stock, thyme, nutmeg and cayenne pepper. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Puree in a food processor or blender until smooth. Return to Dutch oven. Stir in milk and cook until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Soup may be frozen for up to two months.

For more delicous recipes visit atcoblueflamekitchen.com.

The cost is $30 per person. It includes:

• Admission to our farm

• Feed for the Alpacas & Chickens

• Visit the Alpacas in the pasture

• Access to the playground (weather permitting)

• 1 Digital High Resolution with SANTA

• Hot chocolate

Each child that comes will go home with a treat bag and 2 crafts to make at home.

OUR 2nd ANNUAL CHRISTMAS EVENT with Santa & Alpacas is NOW OPEN for Bookings!

LAST YEAR WAS A BLAST! We are so excited about this year’s event!

us at calgaryschild.com

HARVEST PUMPKIN SOUP

Talking to your kids about ‘the birds and the bees’ is more than just teaching them about sex and reproduction. It encompasses learning about their bodies, healthy relationships, boundaries, diversity, and keeping oneself safe. We know that discussing relationships, body parts, and sex with your child can be uncomfortable and overwhelming for many parents. What age do I start? What if they ask me a question I don’t know how to answer? How much detail should I provide? Will they understand what I’m saying? Many parents today did not have conversations about their body, sex, or sexuality with their parents, so it can be challenging to know where to start, and that’s okay.

Not all conversations or topics will be suitable depending on your child’s age. Therefore, no matter what age your child is, it is important to discuss ageappropriate topics and use age-appropriate terms. Let’s break this down a little bit by looking at different age groups, and what we could be discussing with them.

n 0 to 3 years old

Toddlers will begin to explore their own bodies and become aware of gender. During this stage, we encourage parents to label the anatomical names of their body parts rather than using cute nicknames or slang. Remember, young children do not have any of the same associations with those body parts that adults do, so avoid showing fear, shame, or giggling. Having a child accurately label and speak about their body parts can

By Ashlee Ellerbruch, M.C. Lisa Kaldenbach, M.A., R. Psych.

empower them and is the foundation for introducing your child to consent. We love lift-the-flap books about bodies for this age group, because you can talk about and label all different parts of the body which helps to normalize being comfortable talking about bodies.

n 4 to 5 years old

As children get older, you may notice they are beginning to ask more questions about how babies are made, or the differences between boys and girls. We can discuss these topics by using simple terms and ageappropriate words, for example, “mommy and daddy made you and you grew in my stomach.” Using story books can be easier and helpful to explain some of these topics, but this is a perfectly normal stage of curiosity that every child will go through, so use those teachable moments as they arise!

n 6 to 7 years old

This is an age where you can take their curiosity from a couple years ago and get into more detail about the how and why of things. We can also start discussing our values and how it fits into loving relationships and sex. There are some helpful books that can explain some of these topics, for example, It’s So Amazing, by Robbie H. Harris, which uses engaging comics and accurate language to teach kids more about these topics. This is also a great age to continue talking about consent, boundaries and saying “no” when it comes to other people and their body.

n 8 to 12 years old

By this age, your child should have a good basic understanding of the body and the mechanics of sex. This is a time to start focusing more on the changes that come with puberty. Make sure that during this time period you are keeping conversations open and honest, so that your child feels comfortable continuing to come to you as they get older, as their relationships get more complicated, and as questions may come up that they need answers to. Another great book recommendation for this age group is It’s Perfectly Normal by Robbie Harris, as it focuses more on puberty, safe sex, and respectful relationships in tweens and teens.

Discussing sex education to your child isn't a one-off talk; it's really a journey that will need to be revisited throughout the continuum of life. You are creating an atmosphere of open and honest communication, which is important at any age. The long-term goal is to support our children with understanding their bodies and sexuality, and to make healthy choices and keep themselves safe.

Ashlee and Lisa are child psychologists who created KidsConnect Psychology as a place for children and families to access tools, supports and therapy. Check out our website for digital downloads, parenting tool kits, information about our parent counselling, school consultations, daycare consultations and more! kidsconnectpsychology.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at KidsConnect Psychology.

the birds and the bees –how to talk to your child about sex

Helping your child understand their bodies and sexuality

teaching your kids about money

Help your children learn healthy spending and saving habits

By Stacie Gaetz

Over the summer, my daughter and her friends came up with an idea for a bracelet stand where they sold the elastic and bead jewelry they made to people in a local park.

I was feeling pretty proud of my little entrepreneur as she counted her earnings on the walk home, that is, until we heard the ice cream truck.

Less than five minutes after she and her friends divvied up their hard-earned cash, my daughter was eating her share of the profit in the form of a rocket pop.

Of course, spending money before it even makes it into the piggy bank is a fun experience that every child should have, but it got me thinking that perhaps we should chat with our seven-year-old about the value of saving.

Although money can be a touchy subject for some, teaching your children about it doesn’t have to be complicated and it can be one of the most beneficial pieces of wisdom you pass on.

Here are eight tips to help teach your kids the value of a dollar:

Allow your child to earn

Not every family agrees with the concept of an allowance or what chores/tasks children should do to earn one but giving your child an opportunity to work for their money may be the most important thing you can do to help them learn. As soon as they are old enough to understand that people use money to buy things they want, encourage them to keep their money in a safe place until they have enough to buy what they want.

Provide opportunities for extra income

Going hand-in-hand with a regular allowance is the opportunity to occasionally allow your child to earn more money for extra chores. This is a win-win because it allows you to get out of some of your least favorite tasks and your child may even start coming to you with ideas of how they can earn more.

Lead by example

As with everything in life, children will do what you do, not what you say so make sure you are using your money wisely. You can let your child in on your household budgeting process to help them see how paying for expenses works. Let your child see you planning your budget, paying bills, shopping carefully, and planning major expenditures. You can even set a family goal, such as saving for a vacation.

Help them be a smart shopper

Help your children make the most of their money by teaching them how to comparison shop. Assist them in making sure that the toy they want is the best decision and then how to check the price, quality and reviews of the item in different stores or websites. Once again, it is crucial that you lead by example and think twice before running out to get the gadget on your wish list if it is not in the budget.

Emphasize the importance of giving

Now that they have some money of their own, it may be time to introduce your child to the fact that not all people are as fortunate. Talk about those who are less fortunate than yourselves and brainstorm how you can help. Maybe they can give money directly to a charity of their choice or set aside some funds to buy food for the local food bank. Make sure you allow them to choose who they give to.

Take a hands-on approach

Let your children see and count their money as often as they want to. This may mean dumping out their piggy bank and stacking teetering piles of coins for younger children, or helping older kids navigate online banking. It can help to see their hard work pay off and know they are getting closer to their goal. It may also be beneficial for some kids to split the money up into spending, saving and giving portions so they know exactly what the funds are earmarked for.

“Although money can be a touchy subject for some, teaching your children about it doesn’t have to be complicated.”

Teaching your kids about money – Continued on page 33

improving communication with your teen

Mistakes we make and how to fix them

By Cheryl Maguire

“Mom please stop interrogating me.”

My daughter says this to me more often than I care to admit. I ask a lot of questions because she does not give me much information. So I’m left wondering, how could I change?

As a mother of twin 15-year-olds, I often struggle to find ways to effectively communicate with them.

A recent research study done at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia explored ways for parents to improve communication with their teens. Dr. Victoria Miller, psychologist, and author of the study explained some of the prompts used in the study that helped parents and their teens promote reciprocal communication instead of one way. She also discussed common mistakes parents of teens make when trying to talk to them.

Common parenting communication mistakes

Focusing only on problems “One of the biggest mistakes parents make is that they tend to focus only on problems like when our teens make a mistake or don’t live up to our expectations rather than also communicating with them about their teens' strengths and what is going well. We can sometimes forget to do that in the busyness of daily life,” says Dr. Miller.

Asking too many questions or offering unsolicited advice Dr. Miller explains that another mistake parents make is giving advice and lecturing which can backfire and cause teens to shut down especially when they didn’t ask for advice. It can teach them that they can’t handle problems on their own which can get in the way of their confidence. It is better to wait until they ask for advice.

Teens can feel that parents are too controlling when they ask too many questions. They can also feel as if they are being interrogated instead of having a conversation, causing them to shut down.

Letting emotions get out of control Dr. Miller says that when your teen comes to talk to you about a problem, it can be difficult to hide your emotions. She suggests trying not to get angry or upset but instead focus on the fact that they were willing to talk with you. This will help to keep those lines of communication open by listening and offering guidance when asked.

Turn off “the parent alarm” Parents may react emotionally when their teen tells them something upsetting. “When your teen comes to you saying something like, ‘Tom asked me out,’ a parent’s first reaction might be, ‘my child’s too young to date,’ but instead, try to use this opportunity to navigate conversations about how to have a healthy relationship,” says Dr. Miller.

Don’t over-empathize Dr. Miller says it may seem counterintuitive to not over-empathize with your teen. But it can backfire. She offers the example that if your child comes to you and says they got in a fight with their best friend, you might want to jump to the rescue and say “Good riddance! I didn’t like them anyway, you’re better off without them.” But if they make up the next day, your child may be too embarrassed to come to you and say they resolved their differences.

Ways to improve communication

According to Dr. Miller, one reason parents make these mistakes is because there are a lot of negative portrayals of teens in the media and in our culture.

“You get the eye roll ‘oh well she’s a teenager.’ Which can cause parents to really worry about the teenage years and focus on the problems because they worry about their teens and they want them to do well and succeed,” says Dr. Miller.

It is important to remember that it is normal for parents to have some challenges communicating with their teen.

Focus on how the teen years are an exciting time Most teens are well-adjusted, and they have

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good relationships with their families, peers, and they contribute to their communities.

“I think shifting the focus on how well adjusted most teens are and remembering that adolescence is a positive time in development and very exciting is a good thing that will help to improve communication with your teen,” says Dr. Miller.

Focus on strengths “It is important to notice and talk with your teen about their strengths” says Dr. Miller.

She explains that strengths don’t mean what they are good at or what they have achieved but rather the qualities about your teen that will contribute to becoming a healthy productive adult. For example, if your daughter is a star soccer player, think about what it is that makes her good at it, like her work ethic or being a good team player.

“It feels good to notice what is going well for our kids instead of worrying about that test that didn’t go well or that she is upset with something with a friend,” says Dr. Miller.

Allow for independence Dr. Miller explains that during adolescence, teens are trying to separate themselves from their parents – they might do things like walk away when you are trying to have a conversation, or keep ten feet behind you at the mall or focus on their phone when you are trying to have a conversation.

“This is really because teens need to see themselves as different and separate from their parents in order to figure out who they are and to become more independent. This can make parents feel like they don’t matter but that couldn’t be further from the truth,” she says.

Use conversation prompts Dr. Miller’s research study used conversation prompts to help the parent and teen facilitate conversations that focused on strengths. The parent/teen pair were instructed to take ten minutes together and look at examples of strengths and then come back together and talk about it.

Dr. Miller explains that prompts included things like:

• Why did you choose these strengths for you and the other person?

• Give examples of ways the other person demonstrates these strengths you choose.

• Did the other person choose strengths that you didn’t expect?

“They both gave strengths for each other which was the reciprocal aspect of the intervention that was really interesting and unique” says Dr. Miller.

She explains that by shifting to the positive it can help parents and kids feel better. It doesn’t mean your teen doesn’t have weaknesses, but the key is to support your teen and use their strengths to address those limitations.

She also stresses that it is important to shift your thinking of ‘strength’ from achievements and what you are good at to who you are as a person.

Cheryl holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, National Geographic, Washington Post, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05.

Let them plan

A great way to help your children learn about budgeting is for them to completely financially plan a family activity on their own. A trip to the movies is a perfect opportunity for them to budget for. Ask them to:

• determine the price for tickets for each member, add in extra costs such as parking, drinks, treats or food.

• discuss ways to save money such as eating before you go or finding an online discount.

• add everything together to determine the total cost.

Make it fun

Money can be a very serious thing, but it can also be fun. There are plenty of exciting and interesting ways that you can demonstrate the value of money through play. Set up a shop and take turns being the customer and the shop owner. Play board games that involve the exchange of money like Monopoly, LIFE and Pay Day. There are even kid-friendly apps that teach about money, banking, investing and budgeting.

We all want our children to grow up to be financially responsible adults. Leading by example is always one of the most important aspects of teaching our children anything and with a few additional tips, rules and practice, they can learn healthy spending and saving habits that will allow them to thrive in the years to come.

Stacie is the editorial assistant of Calgary's Child Magazine and mother to a delightful daughter and silly son.

Teaching your kids about money – Continued

5 common homework problems (and how to solve them)

Finding solutions to homework havoc

By Calgary's Child

Summer seems like a distant memory and the carefree days of ice cream and pools have been replaced with school lunches and homework.

Homework is a common reason for arguments between parents and children but before you throw in the towel (after explaining the concept of an acute angle for the thousandth time), consider determining the main problem your child is having and trying some of these tips to help them:

1 Motivation/Procrastination We all do it. “I’ll get to that later.” “I can do it tomorrow.” “That can wait.” But when it comes to kids putting off doing their homework, you may need to put your foot down.

One reason children may put off homework is because they don’t know where to start. Spending the first five minutes of their homework time to help them get started can be a huge benefit in getting the ball rolling.

If this doesn’t work, it may be tempting to go immediately to a threat and tell your child, “You won’t get any screen time if you don’t finish your homework.” However, research shows you are more likely to see better results with rewards.

Offering them the opportunity to see friends when they are done, play a game or read a book, or even taking them for ice cream for a very big project can be surprisingly effective. You can also bargain with a bedtime that is a few minutes later than usual or the chance to do their favorite activity one-on-one with you after they have completed their task.

2 Disorganization This can be a tough one. Your child can’t do their work because they are too disorganized, so, rather than admitting it, they will come up with every excuse under the sun why they can’t get it done.

It might take a bit of simple detective work on your part to realize that the reason they don’t want to work is because their binder is a disaster and they can’t even find their assignment, let alone complete it.

It is usually best not to scold them for the pile of smashed papers they call a notebook and teach them how to fix the problem. This might take a quick trip to the store to get some supplies like an accordion folder

or individual duotangs for specific subjects, but getting things where they need to be before they begin can be the difference between homework happiness and a homework headache.

3 Distraction There is a lot going on in your house in the evenings. Making dinner, eating, cleaning up the kitchen, preparing for the next day, laundry, siblings coming and going from activities – it can be a distracting environment for a child to get work done in.

Add technology and screens into the mix and there are countless things that take your child’s attention off of their assignment.

Try to create an environment where your child can be free of the hustle and bustle of what is going on in the rest of the house. This is most effective if the area is on a different floor than the kitchen with a door that closes.

Make sure all of the supplies the child will need to get the job done are in that space as well.

4 Rushing Kids are smart. They soon figure out that the faster they get their homework done, the faster they can do something they want to do.

However, rushing can greatly decrease the quality of the work they’re doing and increase the chance that they will not learn or retain the lessons the work was intended to teach.

A good way to avoid this is to set a certain amount of time dedicated to homework. No matter how quickly they finish what they are working on, they will be required to stay in their homework area and do something educational for that amount of time.

It can help to have some books lined up or print off some math cards in case they finish up early.

5 Frustration We all remember how it felt when you were working on homework and you just couldn’t understand a concept. No matter how the teacher, your textbook, or your parents explained it to you, the concept just wouldn’t stick. That was incredibly frustrating!

Frustration is to be expected from time to time with homework assignments. The key when irritation is at its peak is to disengage. Trying to reason with the child or explain the technique again will only lead to more yelling and possibly tears (yours and theirs). Tell your child that you understand that they are feeling frustrated and they can come and get you in the other room when they are ready to try again.

When they do come and get you, it can help to get the ball rolling again by showing them some sympathy such as “I completely understand that that problem was really hard to figure out.”

Move forward by asking your child to find similar problems in their book or looking up a different way to complete the assignment together.

These homework troubles all have one thing in common. The solution starts with taking the time to listen to your child and help them come up with a way to fix the problem. Sometimes just offering your assistance is all your kid needs to get over their homework hump. CCM

“Sometimes just offering your assistance is all your kiddo needs to get over their homework hump.”

How to inspire joyful reading

By Little Red Reading House

It’s a rainy, late fall afternoon – the perfect time to cuddle up on the couch with a book. But when you say, “Why don’t we read together?” your six-year-old scrunches her nose and skips off to pet the cat. What makes some children reluctant readers, and what can you do to help them get excited about books and reading? There are a handful of reasons why some children just don’t seem to want to spend time with books and some easy ways to help.

First, it’s important to distinguish between a ‘struggling reader’ and a ‘reluctant reader.’ A struggling reader may not want to read because they don’t yet have the skills and one-on-one help for reading to be as fun as it can be. A reluctant reader may have the reading skills – they just want to do anything else with their free time. Why?

1 It’s too ‘sitty’ They would swim in the lake until dark or do cartwheels around the block, but ask them to sit still and r-e-a-d? No thank you! For many children, sitting just lacks some appeal compared to moving their bodies. If that might be the case for your child, be creative: read a page and then do a lap around the sofa or read outside so they can bop away as you turn the pages or take body breaks between pages. Make reading a moving game! We also know families who’ve had success getting their reluctant readers on board by having them first design and build a special reading place of their very own, under the table or in a makeshift tent with stuffies and a few of their other favorite things.

2 It’s too boring We like to say that if a child can read but they don’t like to read, they just haven’t found the books they love yet. Whether they’re into dirt bikes and dinosaurs or ponies and princesses, let them choose books (or even magazines) they get excited about. No, it may not be your first choice and maybe someday they’ll appreciate the classics you’ve been dreaming of reading together, but for now, we just want to focus on getting them ‘hooked’ on reading.

3 It’s too tricky Sometimes we forget that the brain needs to learn how to read – we can’t do it naturally like breathing and that it’s one of the hardest things our children learn to do. Read along with them, create a routine, discover what parts of reading are challenging for them and help them choose ‘just right’ books at their level (they know almost all of the words, understand what’s happening, and can read the book smoothly). You can also ask their teacher for recommendations for your child’s level or explore simple assessments.

4 It’s too blurry Has your child had an eye exam recently? They may have vision challenges or even attention challenges that can affect learning. Consult an optometrist and consider glasses and other tools and resources that could help.

Not all children fall in love with reading at the same time or in the same way – but with books about their favorite subjects and some creativity with the venue, your little reader is sure to emerge! Remember to be seen as a reader yourself – don’t just save it until after bedtime. When children see that you value and make time for reading, they’ll be inspired to do the same.

Little Red Reading House is a magical storybook home in Inglewood that helps families discover the joy of reading together. Visit our website to learn more about family reading visits, free resources, events and more. littleredreading.house.

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“Not all children fall in love with reading at the same time or in the same way.”

4 reasons your child may be a reluctant reader – and what to do

creating a positive relationship with your child’s teacher

Opening the lines of communication is easier than you think

By Ashley Frampton

Every September, families enter the school year with the mystery of not knowing who their child’s teacher will be. As both a parent and an elementary educator, I understand this can be unnerving and (sometimes) a difficult transition. There are a variety of ways administrators and teachers work to facilitate the connection between home and school, but you as a parent can also play a big role in building this new relationship, and in turn, set your child up for success throughout the school year.

Early, in-person connections are so important to relationship development. This is an opportunity for everyone to put a face to a name, and that direct connection is so much more valuable than written or verbal. It’s human nature (and a lesson we’ve all learned over these last few years) that we understand each other better when we see each other.

Meeting in person is also an excellent opportunity to share your preferred method of communication. Do you like email contact? Phone calls? Zoom? When is the best time of day to contact you? Teachers understand that work schedules, transportation and language barriers can impact the way you interact with the school. Setting up a system that works for both you and the teacher is essential to maintaining effective, ongoing communication. If your school offers a meet-the-teacher night or open house, go! This is such a good opportunity to connect and see the environment where your child will

Another way to foster effective relationships between home and school is to take advantage of formal conferences. With an average of only two or three formal meetings each year, it’s important to make the most out of this conversation and keep it student-centered. Instead of trying to talk about everything in just 15 minutes, highlight a few questions, concerns or ideas that you feel important to share. You might consider discussing some of your child’s strengths, interests and challenges, ask questions about how you can support your child, or inquire into your child’s social-emotional wellbeing at school. This is also a good chance to get information about what support services are available to you if your

Regular, ongoing communication with your child’s teacher helps maintain that connection between home and school. We often ask our kids “what did you do in school today?” and expect a lengthy reply. Instead, we usually get an effortless “nothing” or “we played in the gym.” These common, detail-lacking responses are totally fair and developmentally appropriate. At this point in the day, your child’s mental capacity around learning is totally capped and they may be too tired to express their thoughts. Many teachers provide families with weekly or even daily access to their child’s learning. This communication might be through a social media account, weekly newsletters, or a website. Taking the time to view these with your child is an effective way to facilitate the conversation about learning.

Families can also take time to connect through volunteer opportunities, when possible (some of the best parent connections I've made have been while riding on a bus or walking around the Zoo!), joining the school council or helping with fundraisers. And teachers love

when families share their areas of expertise, especially if it’s connected to the curriculum. Is there anything you feel you could bring to your child’s classroom? Perhaps you have a background in science, history, engineering, crafting or technology? Opportunities for family members to come talk to the class and discuss their areas of expertise are more than welcome!

An obvious, but sometimes challenging, final note. Try to keep the relationship between home and school positive and mutually respectful. You and your child’s teacher may have different perspectives on certain topics, like homework or friendships, and that’s okay. Like any relationship, you can’t expect to have your values and expectations align perfectly all of the time. But maintaining open, positive communication that feels safe and secure for all stakeholders can help you to understand each other a little better. Personally, I love engaging in “small talk” with families! With regular communication, we get to know you and your child better.

I truly believe that the foundation for a successful school year is strong relationships, and there’s a lot of research that shows that family involvement in their child’s learning can lead to things like increased engagement, attendance and even better grades. So this year, connect, make it work for you and your teacher, be as involved as you can be and try to maintain a mutual, respectful relationship in your short year together.

Ashley is a mom of three, Early Childhood Educator, and Elementary Teacher. She has a Master’s Degree (Instructional Leadership) from the University of Calgary and loves inspiring families, educators, and caregivers to help their children learn at home and school. For more ideas, follow her on Facebook and Instagram @teachthemlittle.

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“...teachers love when families share their areas of expertise, especially if it’s connected to the curriculum.”

how to co-regulate big feelings

Effectively share your child’s emotional load

By Karen Young, Psychologist

All children can behave in ways that are… not adorable. Big behavior can be exhausting and maddening for even the calmest of parents. But there’s a good reason for this. Children create distress in their important adults as a way to share the emotional load when that load gets too heavy. This is how it’s meant to be. In the same way that children weren’t meant to carry big physical loads on their own, they also weren’t meant to carry big emotional loads. Big feelings and big behavior are a call to you for support to help them with that emotional load. When you are in front of your child with big feelings, whatever you are feeling is likely to be a reflection of what your child is feeling. If you are frustrated, angry, helpless, scared, it’s likely that they are feeling that way, too.

Children communicate through behavior. Behind all big behavior there will always be a valid need. The need might be for safety, connection, sleep, food, power and influence, space to do their own thing. We all have these needs, but children are still developing the capacity to meet them in ways that aren’t as disruptive for them or the people around them. This will take a while. The part of the brain that can calm big feelings, the prefrontal cortex, isn’t fully developed until mid to late 20s. Of course, as they grow and develop, they will expand their capacity to calm their big feelings but in the meantime, they will need lots of co-regulation experiences with you to help them develop strong neural foundations for this.

How do I help my child?

The most powerful language for any nervous system is another nervous system. Your child will catch your distress (as you will catch theirs) but they will also catch your calm. It can be tempting to move them to independence on this too quickly and insist they selfregulate, but it doesn’t work this way. Children can only learn to self-regulate with lots (and lots and lots) of experience co-regulating.

Regulation isn’t something that can be taught. It’s something that has to be experienced through coregulation over and over. It’s like many things in life – driving a car, playing the piano – you can talk all you want about ‘how’ but it’s not until you ‘do’ – over and over – that you get better at it. Emotional regulation

works the same way. It’s not until children have repeated experiences with an adult bringing them back to calm that they develop the vital neural pathways to come back to calm on their own.

How exactly do you co-regulate?

The first thing to remember is, as much as you might want to fix your young one’s feelings, you don’t need to. They’re safe. They might be struggling, but they’re safe. As maddening as those big feelings might be, they’re doing an important job – recruiting support (you) to help that young, still-in-development nervous system find its way home.

‘flight’). Sometimes you’ll be able to give them what they need, and sometimes you won’t. Both are responses of a loving, beautiful parent but sometimes as a parent, you get stretched too far, too.

Whenever you can, validate what your child is feeling, but let your intentions be clear. This means steering away from neutral voices or neutral faces. It’s hard to read the intentions behind a low-monotone, neutral voice or neutral face. If your intention isn’t clear, it can trigger a bigger sense of ‘threat’ in an already unhappy nervous system. Sometimes you might think you’re speaking calmly when you’re speaking ‘neutrally,’ or low, slow, and monotone. The point is, your calm voice might not always be calming. Whenever you can, try to match the intensity of your child’s feelings (through your voice tone, facial expressions, presence) while staying open, warm, and regulated. ‘I can see how upset you are, my darling. You really wanted […] and you’re so annoyed that it can’t happen.’

What if my child wants space, or less words?

When their feelings are big, it’s more about who you are or how you are than what you do. Your child doesn’t want to be fixed; they want to be seen and heard. They’re no different than you. Meet them where they are, without needing them to be different for a while. Feel what they feel with a strong, steady heart. They will feel you there with them. They will see it in you and feel it in you that you get them, that you can handle whatever they are feeling, and that you are there for them. This will help calm them more than anything. Everyone feels safest when they are ‘with.’ Feel the feeling, breathe, and be with – and you don’t need to do more than that.

You might not be able to do this every time, and that’s okay. Here’s how that works: Catch your child’s distress, as you are meant to. This gives you the opportunity to hold that distress with them, until those feelings start to soften. This can be a great thing when you have the emotional resources to do this, but we are all human, and sometimes your child’s fight or flight will raise fight or flight in you. You might get angry or frustrated (sharing their ‘fight’) or turn away and distract (sharing their

If they get annoyed with too many words, just breathe and be with, ‘I’m going to stay with you until you feel better.’ You don’t have to say anything if talking doesn’t feel right. Stay regulated and feel what they feel. They’ll feel it in you that you get them. Similarly, if they want space, it’s important to respect that, but stay in emotional proximity. ‘Okay, I’m going to stay over here until you feel better. I’ll be right here for you.’

What if my child’s big feelings are driving big behavior?

Big feelings and the big behavior that comes from big feelings are a sign of a distressed nervous system. They are not a reflection of your child or your parenting.

Think of it like a burning building. The behavior is the smoke. The fire is a distressed nervous system. It’s tempting to respond directly to the behavior (the smoke), but ignore the fire by doing this. As long as you do this, the fire will keep getting bigger and the smoke will keep getting thicker. Even if you manage to blow the smoke out of the way for a while, it’s not going to be long before that burning building turns the sky a heavy grey again.

Sometimes by dealing with the smoke, you might get a compliant child, but this doesn’t mean a child who is

“Behind all big behavior there will always be a valid need.”

open to learning. This is because the worst thing for any young person is to be separated from their important adults. In the wild, separation would mean certain death. Any discipline that emotionally separates (shame) or physically separates (time-out, thinking chair, thinking square) will drive a young brain to register an even bigger threat. The felt sense of emotional or physical separation will drive children to comply in order to restore proximity back to their important adult, but a quiet child doesn’t always mean a calm child. As long as their brain is in ‘threat’ mode, stress neurochemicals will be surging through your child’s body and keeping the ‘thinking brain’ (the prefrontal cortex) offline. This is the part of the brain that can hear rational information, learn, plan a better way next time, think through consequences, make deliberate decisions, and calm big feelings. As long as your child doesn’t have access to the thinking brain, you won’t have the influence you need to guide them toward stronger, healthier ways of being.

There will be a time for teaching and redirection, but in the middle of a burning building is not that time. When your young one comes back to calm – and it doesn’t matter how long that takes – then have those transformational chats: ‘What happened?’ ‘What can make it easier next time?’ ‘Things are a bit of a mess right now. How can you put things right? You’re such a great kid. I know you’ll have some good ideas about how to do that. Do you need my help?’ Remember, just because you talk about what they can do differently next time doesn’t mean that those ‘next time’ things will start happening. It takes time and lots of practice to learn hard things.

Maybe they’ll need consequences after big behavior, but probably not. The whole point of consequences is to build healthier behavior, so any consequences have to make sense. Often, though, the type of consequences do nothing to teach better ways of being. Rather than, ‘What consequences do they need to do better?’ try, ‘What support do they need to do better?’ They’ll learn a lot more by talking with you when they feel safe, connected, and open than they will by, say, missing out on dessert because they dropped some hefty words while their thinking brain was benched.

An important part of co-regulation is making sure you are guiding that nervous system with tender, gentle hands and a steady heart. This is where self-regulation becomes important. Our nervous systems speak to each other every moment of every day. When your child is distressed, you will start to feel that distress. It becomes a loop. You feel what they feel, they feel what you feel. The capacity to self-regulate is the circuit breaker.

This can be tough, but it can happen in microbreaks. A few strong steady breaths can calm your nervous system, which you can then use to calm your child’s. Breathe and be with. It’s that simple, but tough to do some days.

But you have to be radically kind with yourself, too. It takes a steady heart to soothe the heart of another, and being that steady heart can be tough some days. Parenting is hard, and days will be hard, and on many of those days you’ll feel the rawness and realness of it all. You’ll say things you shouldn’t say and do things you shouldn’t do. But it’s okay, we’re all human. Don’t put pressure on your child to be perfect by pretending that you are. Instead, repair the ruptures as soon as you can, and bathe them abundantly in the love and the warmth of you. It’s not about perfection. It’s about consistency, honesty, and the way you respond to your child.

Karen began her career as a psychologist in private practice. She has worked extensively with kids, teens, and families, and in educational and organization settings. Experience has taught her that people can do amazing things with the right information, psychology has something for everyone, jargon doesn’t, everyone has a story to tell, short bios are the longest to write, nobody has it all figured out, and the best people to be around are the ones who already know this. Check out her blog, heysigmund.com.

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mental, overall physical,

first aid tips to teach kids

youth.

Helping your child know what to do when they are hurt

By Sarah Lyons

Parents can take every precaution possible to keep their kids safe but accidents happen. It is never too early to start teaching your kids basic first aid skills and what to do in an emergency. If your child gets injured, remain calm and talk them through the steps you are taking while applying ice, bandages, or treating a bug bite. The skills you teach them now will be used for a lifetime.

Here are some basic first aid tips you can start teaching kids now:

For bumps and bruises

For a typical bruise, explain that when you bump into something it causes bleeding under the skin. Apply an ice pack to the bruise to prevent swelling and reduce pain. Show your child where you keep the ice pack and how to wrap it in a towel so the ice isn’t directly on the skin.

Call for help if your child has a head injury and is acting strangely or if they are experiencing nausea, vomiting, confusion, or vision changes.

Call for help if the bone is bent, sticking out, or if you cannot move or put weight on the injured area.

For burns

If your child has a mild burn, run it under cool tap water for 15 minutes and repeat as needed. Do not apply ice directly to the wound. If the burn blisters, ask your child to leave it alone as much as possible as this will help with the healing process.

Call for help if the injury is making it difficult to move. If the injury is waxy-looking or bigger than the palm of your hand, it would be best to seek medical attention.

For bug bites and stings

If your child has a bug bite, wash the area and apply ice for swelling and pain. You can also apply calamine lotion to help with itching.

Call for help if your child has an allergic reaction to a sting or bite.

For choking

If someone is choking, remain calm and ask the person questions. If they can answer, they are still able to breathe. If they are coughing, wait and see if they are able to clear the airway on their own. Older children can be taught how to do the stomach thrusts (formerly known as Heimlich maneuver) to help dislodge the item that is choking them. Older children can also be taught how to perform stomach thrust on others.

Call for help if someone is struggling to breathe for a significant amount of time or is not able to cough or speak.

The Calgary Flames Grade 6 YMCA Program provides free membership and active programming throughout the year to all Calgary Grade 6 students.

Students entering Grade 6 can register now!

For cuts

If your child has a cut, teach them to use a clean cloth to put pressure on it to slow bleeding. When the bleeding has stopped, clean the wound and apply antibiotic ointment and a bandage.

Call for help if the cut is deep, will not stop bleeding, has something stuck in it, or if you can see ligaments or bone.

For sprains and broken bones

Any time there is a suspected broken bone, your kids should ask for help from an adult. Teach them not to touch the injured area and apply ice while waiting for help.

First aid skill is an important life skill for anyone to have and it is never too early to begin teaching basic skills. You can model what to do in an emergency situation by remaining calm and talking your child through minor injuries. For other emergencies like fire safety and broken bones, you can use role playing to help kids understand what to do. Set a date on your calendar at least once a year to go over first aid, fire safety, and what to do in an emergency. This will help your child remember what they learned and remain calm if they are faced with one of these situations.

Sarah is a mom of six kids, including seven-year-old triplets. She enjoys reading, writing, and spending time outdoors with her family.

Editor’s Note: Consider registering your older child or teenager in a licensed first aid program to make sure they have the most accurate and up-to-date knowledge, especially if they are in a position where they may be unsupervised

Making Calgary feel like one big neighbourhood.

“You can model what to do in an emergency situation by remaining calm and talking your child through minor injuries.”

teaching kids about 9 -1-1

By Stuart Brideaux, Public Education Officer, AHS EMS, Calgary Zone

It’s important to teach your child age-appropriate information about how and when to call 9-1-1. You can teach younger children to call 9-1-1 if they’re with someone who is really hurt or really sick. Someone who is really hurt or sick might include a person who cannot breathe, a person you cannot wake up, or a person who has an injury that is bleeding really badly.

Younger children may struggle to decide if they should call 9-1-1 if they are by themselves. One method is to teach them, “If you’re not sure if you should call 9-1-1, find an older or bigger person who is close by and ask them.”

If they are truly alone, however, and they believe it’s a real emergency, they can call 9-1-1 and help will arrive.

The 9-1-1 staff (Emergency Communications Officers) will help them over the phone to find out what type of help is needed and how quickly. Although 9-1-1 is only for real emergencies, first responders would rather attend a call where there is less of a concern and clear the scene quickly, than not be called at all to what turned out to be a life-threatening emergency.

The most important information to share when you call 9-1-1 is the address of the emergency and the telephone number you are calling from. You can help

younger children who can read by keeping your home address and phone number written beside the home phone or in a place they know to look if they need to.

Once 9-1-1 has the address, they can at least begin sending help even if the exact type of emergency is not yet known. They can also call back right away if a caller hangs up too early or by mistake, or if the call is accidentally dropped while using a cell phone. When calling from a cell phone, be ready to give the closest address or cross street.

It’s very important to teach children 9-1-1 is for real emergencies only. If they manage to call 9-1-1 accidently, teach them to stay on the line and tell the Emergency Communications Officer what happened. Never hang up! If they do, 9-1-1 will need to call back until they can determine there is no emergency.

Stuart has been a paramedic since 1999, initially with The City of Calgary, EMS. He became a Public Education Officer (PEO) in 2007. He continued his career as a PEO with Alberta Health Services, EMS, where he enjoys providing public outreach, school presentations, and media relations for EMS. In his spare time, Stuart enjoys performing with the Calgary Civic Symphony and spending time with his family.

towards

child is seeing correctly and there are no eye health issues.

Help your child know what to do in an emergency

“First responders would rather attend a call where there is less of a concern…than not be called at all to what turned out to be a lifethreatening emergency.”

Dr. Jean Shen, Optometrist

of baby care is eye care. Have your infant’s vision and eye health checked.”

to

Anxiety can be crippling. It can stop you in your tracks and paralyze you, send you into a fit of anger, or even make you physically sick. Imagine going through that as a child who has no idea what is happening or why.

Children experience anxiety and nervousness more often than parents might think. Understanding that sweaty hands and an upset stomach may be related to their upcoming test or that the angst they are feeling about making a new friend could be causing their headaches does not come naturally.

Children need a trusted adult to teach them how emotions manifest into physical sensations so they can understand when they are feeling anxious and what they can do to help decrease that anxiety. There are many different kinds and causes of anxiety and nervousness.

Below are a few of the books that have helped me explain different forms of anxiety to my five-year-old son, who struggles with it.

Although these are all written so a young child can comprehend them, they can also be used to help older kids understand what they’re feeling:

n Anxiety around making mistakes

Beautiful Oops! by Barney Saltzberg

It’s Okay to Make Mistakes by Todd Parker

child with anxiety

By Stacie Gaetz

n Anxiety around their ability

I Can Handle It! by Laurie Wright

I Knew You Could! A Book for all the Stops in your Life by Craig Dorfman

n Anxiety around emotions

The Boy with Big, Big Feelings by Britney Winn Lee

Listening to My Body by Gabi Garcia

n Anxiety around separation

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn

The Invisible String by Patrice Karst

Each of these books is a great tool to get the conversation started, but the most important thing each story teaches children is that other people feel anxious and nervous too. This lets them know that it is natural and they are not alone, which is crucial to helping them comprehend and conquer their fears.

n Anxiety around fears

It Will Be OK by Lisa Katzenberger

The Scaredy Squirrel Series by Melanie Watt

Stacie is the editorial assistant of Calgary’s Child Magazine and mother of a delightful daughter and silly son. Her days are filled with playing in parks, creating crafts and keeping up with the chaos. She thoroughly enjoys supporting, connecting and informing parents through interesting stories like this one.

Family Wellness Directory

Sometimes families need a little extra support. Whether it’s access to information, professional assistance, or resources for your busy family, we’re here to help you find it.

Inclusivity and accessibility icons are based on each business’s self-reported availability of services for disabled, special needs & mobility-impaired children. Please check with each business to make sure they can meet your child’s specific needs.

ASSOCIATIONS, RESOURCES, SUPPORT & SOCIAL SERVICES

AUTISM SOCIETY ALBERTA (ASA)

Website: autismalberta.ca

Autism Society Alberta (ASA) is a grassroots organization within the autism community connecting to its provincial members through regional partners and networking with agencies and associations throughout the province and nationwide.

CALGARY ADAPTED HUB

Phone: 403-510-7307

Email: info@calgaryadaptedhub.com

Website: calgaryadaptedhub.com

Instagram: @yycadaptedhub

Calgary Adapted Hub is a collective of organizations powered by Jumpstart, committed to providing quality sport and recreation opportunities for children, youth, and families living with disabilities in Calgary. Jumpstart was founded in 2020 to make programs more inclusive for children, youth, and families living with disabilities that are physical, intellectual, sensory, developmental, or otherwise. Partners include University of Calgary, Mount Royal University, City of Calgary, Sport Calgary,

Vivo for Healthier Generations, MNP Community & Sport Centre, and WinSport. Together with our partners, we are pathfinders, travel companions, and motivators on your journey to participation.

CHILDREN’S COTTAGE SOCIETY

Phone: 403-233-2273

Website: childrenscottage.ab.ca

Since 1986, The Children’s Cottage Society has been dedicated to preventing harm and neglect to children and building strong families through support services, respite programs, and crisis nurseries.

CHILDREN’S LINK SOCIETY (THE)

Phone: 403-230-9158

Email: info@childrenslink.ca

Website: childrenslink.ca

Staffed by parents that have been there, The Children’s Link Society is Calgary’s first and only special needs connection.

CONNECT SOCIETY D E A F SERVICES

Phone: 403-828-1937

Website: connectsociety.org

COMMUNITY LINKS

Airdrie

Phone: 403-945-3900

Email: info@nrvcl.ab.ca Website: nrvcl.ab.ca Phone: 1-866-945-3905

Community Links strengthens individuals, families, and communities of North Rocky View by providing them with and connecting them to services, supports, and resources.

GRIT CALGARY SOCIETY

Phone: 403-215-2444

Website: gritcalgarysociety.com

GRIT Calgary Society is a longstanding program of excellence meeting the diverse needs of preschool children with developmental disabilities in and around the Calgary area. This Alberta Education funded program provides specialized and individualized home, community and school-based education. A team of experienced professionals work in collaboration with parents to provide an effective and dynamic educational experience. With the core belief that communication is the foundation for lifelong

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Learn more: active-living.ucalgary.ca

We offer a variety of programs to enhance and support the healthy development of families.

learning, the multidisciplinary team supports all developmental areas of need and endeavors to ensure that children become full participants at home, school and in their community.

INCLUSION ALBERTA

Website: inclusionalberta.org

Inclusion Alberta (formerly Alberta Association for Community Living) is a family-based, non-profit federation that advocates on behalf of children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families.

LA LECHE LEAGUE CANADA - CALGARY

Phone: 403-242-0277

Website: lllc.ca

Many families want to breastfeed their babies, but some stop sooner than planned. Connecting with La Leche League (LLL) can make the difference to reaching your breastfeeding goals. LLLC Calgary offers parent-toparent breastfeeding support and provides information by email, over the phone/text, or at virtual and inperson monthly meetings led by trained, experienced volunteers. Check out lllc.ca/find-group-alberta or phone 403-242-0277 for more information or assistance; Facebook, facebook.com/lalecheleaguecanada; and Twitter, twitter.com/LLLCanada.

LEARNING DISABILITIES & ADHD NETWORK

Phone: 403-630-1616

Website: ldadhdnetwork.ca

The Learning Disabilities & ADHD Network provides free resources and helpful, reliable information for individuals with a Learning Disability and/or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and those who live, play,

and work with them. The Network itself is a collaborative initiative of a broad group of organizations which foster action toward more effective and coordinated responses in meeting the needs of people with LD and/or ADHD. It is operated through Foothills Academy and supported by a grant from the Calgary Foundation.

OPERATION EYESIGHT

Website: operationeyesight.com

Phone: 403-283-6323

Calgary-based Operation Eyesight has been partnering with communities to deliver quality eye care to people who need it most for nearly six decades. Together, we screened 1.68 million people across Africa and South Asia for eye conditions in 2021, delivering care to almost 169,000 people and distributing 186,000+ pairs of prescription eyeglasses to children, women and men who could not otherwise access eye health services.

POST NATAL HELPERS LTD

Phone: 403-640-0844

Email: info@postnatalhelpers.ca

Website: postnatalhelpers.ca

Post Natal Helpers provides part-time child care services for families with newborns, toddlers, preschoolers, and/or special needs children. We have been providing services in Calgary for over 30 years. While we are in the home, the parent has the option to stay, to rest, or to leave.

Post Natal Helpers are available in the daytime as well as evenings, weekends, and overnights.

PREP PROGRAM (THE) 2004 12 Avenue NW Phone: 403-282-5011

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Inspiring families on the journey of inclusion for their child with Down syndrome.

ROWAN HOUSE EMERGENCY SHELTER

Phone: 403-652-3311

Website: rowanhouse.ca

Rowan House’s mission is to provide crisis intervention, long-term support, and education for those affected by family violence in rural communities.

YW CALGARY

Website: ywcalgary.ca

YW Calgary supports more than 3,500 Calgary women and their families each year. YW focuses on enhancing women’s safety and well-being while advocating for equity.

INCLUSIVE AND ACCESSIBLE PROGRAMMING

AMICUS RECREATION

745 37 Street NW (in Foothills Academy)

Phone: 403-270-9400, Ext. 252

Email: intake@foothillsacademy.org Website: foothillsacademy.org

Amicus Recreation programs are designed specifically for youth (ages eight to 16) with Learning Disabilities and/ or ADHD to provide opportunities to learn new skills, socialize, and gain self-confidence. A wide variety of activities (technology, sports, arts – just to name a few) are offered. There’s something for everyone! Programs are led by mature, trained staff who provide a welcoming, supportive environment. Financial assistance is available for qualified families.

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BEHAVIOUR THERAPY AND LEARNING CENTRE (BTLC)

100 2107 Sirocco Drive SW

Phone: 403-205-2749

Email: admin@btlc.ca

Website: btlc.ca

BTLC is the only school in Calgary using the established and well-researched principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) to teach preschool and kindergarten students with the unique learning needs and challenges associated with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. BTLC’s success is based on small class size, intensive and individualized programming using effective, research-based teaching strategies, a high ratio of adult support, and opportunities for integration in community schools.

BETWEEN FRIENDS

Phone: 403-269-9133

Email: info@betweenfriends.ab.ca

Website: betweenfriends.ab.ca

Between Friends provides quality social, recreation, and development opportunities for people with disabilities to connect, grow, and belong.

CAUSE AND EFFECT FOUNDATION

Phone: 403-523-0150

Email: contact@causeandeffectfoundation.com

Website: causeandeffectfoundation.com

Cause and Effect is a community-based early intervention service for children with developmental delays or exceptional needs within Calgary and surrounding areas.

CITY OF CALGARY PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS

SOUTHLAND LEISURE CENTRE

2000 Southland Drive SW

Phone: 403-648-6555

VILLAGE SQUARE LEISURE CENTRE 2623 56 Street NW Phone: 403-366-3900

INGLEWOOD BIRD SANCTUARY 425 9 Avenue SE Phone: 311 Website: calgary.ca/preschool

Preschoolers love to be active – they run, jump, sing and climb at every opportunity. Active learning develops active children who learn to make physical activity part of their lives. Our programs, designed for children two and half to five years old, help prepare them for school through play using a variety of resources under the guidance of our experienced instructors. Registration for our school-year programs 2022/2023 has begun.

EDELWEISS PREPARATORY SCHOOL

600 Northmount Drive NW

Phone: 403-282-4220

Email: epschool@telus.net Website: epschool.ca

A Calgary’s Child Parents’ Choice Award winner for “Best Preschool” and “Honourable Mention” for 14 years!

We offer STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math), Jolly Phonics, Learning Without Tears curriculum, weekly music classes, science experiments with Captain science, Spanish classes, daily gym equipment and games, creative movement, and yoga. Our literacy-rich program includes an Author of the Month study, author readings, journaling, and a Home Reading program. We have a monthly Virtues Program, Environmental Awareness program, outdoor education, cultural, and art presentations, and class field trips.

Register for two-day preschool (for three year olds); two-, three-, or five-day Jr. Kindergarten (for four year olds); or kindergarten.

FOOTHILLS ACADEMY

745 37 Street NW

Phone: 403-270-9400

Email: info@foothillsacademy.org

Website: foothillsacademy.org

Foothills Academy offers a full-time school program for students with Learning Disabilities from Grades 3 to 12 following the Alberta Education Curriculum. Class sizes are small with a teacher and assistant. A variety of strategies is used to help students find success ensuring they reach their full potential. A wide range of yearround programs and services are open to the broader community including psycho-educational assessments, literacy instruction, social skills programs, recreation, parent education and more.

KIDS@CHURCHILL PARK

Phone: 403-266-4656

Email: admin@churchillpark.ca Website: churchillpark.ca

Kids@Churchill Park proudly offers accountable, trustbased early learning and child care to Calgary families. With eight different programs in the city, we have options for everyone including full-time, part-time and drop-in care, out of school care, and over 45 Family Day Home options. Kids@Churchill Park has been Calgary’s best-kept secret for over 50 years! Join our family and experience the difference that loving and compassionate care makes.

LONG & MCQUADE

MUSIC LESSON CENTRES

Calgary Chinook: 225 58 Avenue SE Phone: 403-252-8506

Email: calgarychinooklessons@long-mcquade.com

Website: long-mcquade.com/lessons/Alberta/Calgary Calgary East: 3404 5 Avenue NE Phone: 587-296-6648

Email: calgaryeastlessons@long-mcquade.com Website: long-mcquade.com/lessons/Alberta/Calgary_East Calgary Royal Vista: 10 Royal Vista Drive NW Phone: 587-794-3196

Email: calgaryroyalvistalessons@long-mcquade.com Website: long-mcquade.com/lessons/Alberta/Calgary_North Music lessons for every age, level, and style. At Long & McQuade, we believe every person is capable of acquiring the skills and knowledge required to make playing a musical instrument a rewarding activity. We have a wide variety of carefully-chosen professional instructors offering year-round music lessons and a variety of summer programs. In-studio and online video lessons available.

NEW HEIGHTS SCHOOL & LEARNING SERVICES

2521 Dieppe Avenue SW

Phone: 403-240-1312

Email: info@newheightscalgary.com Website: newheightscalgary.com

New Heights School & Learning Services is a registered charitable organization and a Designated Special Education Private School. We opened our doors in 1999 to 12 students in our preschool and early intervention programs, with the simple goal of giving families a safe and friendly community to support their needs and build their capacity. Our goal is to equip each student with the skills they need to engage in and contribute to the community around them.

exercise tips for busy parents on the move

By Cara Poppitt

Life is full of long ‘to do’ lists and when you’re a parent, the list is never-ending. We have all heard it said that we need to fill our own cup before we can fill others, but sometimes that cup stays empty far too long.

As a working mother of three, I know the importance of structured routine and staying organized. If you are a parent on the move and want to stay active but are pressed for time, I encourage you to think about the possibility of five minutes. Yes, just five minutes.

When it comes to time for working out, it is common for us to have an ‘all or nothing’ mentality and if we are unable to do a full work-out, we tend to forego taking any time for a work-out. Maybe you can relate to waking up, getting your children in the car and simply being happy you made it to school on time. The moment your alarm clock sounds, you are on the go and the busyness and intensity of the day keeps going until your head hits the pillow at night. You crave time for yourself, and you desire to be more active, but it just doesn’t seem possible. If this is you, read on for some quick tips that can make incredible changes

I invite you to set your alarm clock five minutes earlier and carve out five minutes for yourself to do a full body work-out so that your mind and body feel ready for the day. I promise you that taking these moments for yourself will allow your day to unfold in a completely different way. Your day needs to begin with you taking care of yourself before you tackle your job as a parent.

Pull out a mat from under your bed or use a towel and do ten push-ups, ten sit-ups, ten bum lifts, ten triceps

dips, ten squats, ten calf raises, ten jumping jacks and maybe finish off strong and do your ten best dance moves to wrap up your session. Do this cycle as many times as possible in the five minutes. If you maintain consistency and keep your commitment to yourself, you will start to feel a bit calmer and more capable of facing the day’s demands.

When you leave your room to start the day, you will have had five minutes to ground yourself and begin to feel positive energy. Take the time to set an intention for the day – consider how you want to feel, how you want to show up for your family or work, and how you can be present in your life. Setting an intention focuses your mind in the right direction. You will manage stress better throughout the day and will feel a sense of inner peace. This all starts with saying ‘yes’ to yourself and carving out five minutes to be active.

Once you have a routine of five minutes each morning, you may also try to find five minutes in the afternoon to reset once again. Your body and your mind will start to crave the activity and the mental benefits that physical exercise provides. Finally, when you have these ten minutes to yourself, you may be able to find five more minutes in the evening, giving you 15 minutes of movement, activity and energy.

APAK program o ers children 6-16 years old with special needs the opportunity to gain independence and health benefits in an encouraging and understanding environment.

All abilities are welcome, and all skills will be adapted and modified as needed.

When you program your brain for what is possible and stick to a commitment for yourself, your selfesteem increases, and you feel better about yourself. Additionally, after taking time for a simple work-out, you will often naturally make better eating decisions throughout the day. You will begin to crave more water, which will flush out your toxins and allow your organs to function optimally and increase your energy levels. Moving your body will strengthen your emotional, mental, and physical health.

If you make these small but significant shifts, they will add up over time and even though you are one busy parent on the move, you will have moved your body, reset your mind, and found some ‘you’ time. When this happens, it is your invitation to bust out a happy dance and feel proud that you made a commitment to yourself and made it happen.

Cara is the owner and operator of Soul Connexion. If you are looking for a little time for yourself, check out Soul Connexion - a dance, yoga, fitness and fine arts studio offering classes for the whole family. soulconnexion.ca. Just mention Calgary Child Magazine and enjoy a free class pass on them!

active-living.ucalgary.ca/

How five minutes can make all the difference

“Your day needs to begin with you taking care of yourself before you tackle your job as a parent.”

top 5 things you can do for your child’s eye health

Parents everywhere want their kids to thrive. With the school year now underway, it’s a great time to book an eye exam.

From learning in the classroom to playing in the schoolyard, vision is vital to how kids grow and develop – so vital in fact, up to 80 percent of early learning is visual.

Calgary-based Operation Eyesight has been partnering with communities to deliver quality eye care to people who need it most for nearly six decades. Together, we screened 1.68 million people across Africa and South Asia for eye conditions in 2021, delivering care to almost 169,000 people and distributing 186,000+ pairs of prescription eyeglasses to children, women and men who could not otherwise access eye health services.

Dr. Boateng Wiafe, our technical advisor and author of The Healthy Eyes Activity Book: A Health Teaching Book for Primary Schools, says there are five things all parents can do to take care of their family’s eye health this year:

1 Book that annual eye exam Kids18 years and under and adults 65 and older are entitled to a free eye exam each year. Like regular visits to the dentist, annual eye exams should be part of your family’s routine.

2 Know the signs Identifying a vision problem early is critical. If your child squints, tilts their head, closes or covers one eye, has difficulty concentrating or needs to sit close to the TV, these are all signs that a vision problem could be at play.

3 Limit screen time A 2021 study found that extended screen time is associated with a 30 percent higher risk of myopia (nearsightedness). When combined with excessive computer use, the risk more than doubles, reaching approximately 80 percent. Remember the 20-20-20 rule – every 20 minutes, look at an object approximately 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

4 Get outside Getting outside to walk, play or move is a great way to take a break from screens – not to mention get some fresh air and vitamin D. According to the Canadian Association of Optometrists, increased time playing outdoors protects people from the onset of myopia.

FOR PARENTS

VisionDidyouknowthat80percentoflearningisvisual?

EncouragePromotehealthyeating.outdoorplay(playingatleast1-2hours outdoorseverydayinnaturalsunlighthasprovento Reducereducetheriskofchildrenbecomingnearsighted). frequenttheirscreentimeandencouragethemtotake 20-20-20breaksfromscreens.

Rule:Every20minutes,encourageyour (sixchildtolookatanobjectapproximately20feet metres)away. (Whynotpracticecountingto Teach20orplayaroundof‘ISpy’whileyou’reatit?) themtheimportanceofwashingtheirhands towithsoapandwarmwaterandusingcleanwashcloths

mentalyearscansignificantlyimpact

Providethemwithquality sunglassesandspecificsports-

Teachthemtonotplay carelesslywithstones,sticks, pencils,

eyes.objectsthatcanhurttheir fromNevertrytoremovesomething theireyes(orfrom yourowneyes).Alwaysseek medical help.

MakeAperiodiceyetestisasimportantasanyotherroutinehealthcheck-up. sureyourchildgetsaneyeexaminationbeforetheystartschool,toenable earlydetectionandtreatmentofeyeproblemsthatcanimpactreadingand learning.

Ifyourchildneedseyeglasses,encouragethemtowearthemeveryday.

Visit operationeyesight.com/childeyehealth for a FREE eye health tip sheet and activity sheet for kids

5 Protect your eyes The right pair of sunglasses protects eyes from ultraviolet rays from the sun. Remember to stay safe and avoid eye injuries by using protective eye gear when you’re doing household chores and ensuring your kids have the right eye protection for sports.

IN FOCUS: GLOBAL EYE CARE

Here in Alberta, it’s easy to book an eye exam. However, in many parts of South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, lack of access to eye care isolates children from their peers and prevents them from attending school.

FOR

Did you know that 80 per

Through our school and community eye health programs, we are giving children (and their family and their teacher) access to prescription glasses, treatment and surgery, with the help of our partner hospitals and through the generosity of our donors.

Visit operationeyesight.com to learn more about Operation Eyesight’s programs and what you can do to help.

Vision and eye-related problems a child’s well-being. Here ENCOURAGE THEM HEALTHY HABITS

In 2021 Operation Eyesight distributed 186,400 pairs of prescription eyeglasses to people who need it across Africa and South Asia, including children like six-year-old Misba from the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal, India.

Promote healthy eating.

Encourage outdoor play outdoors every day in natural reduce the risk of children

Reduce their screen time frequent breaks from screens.

20-20-20 Rule: Every child to look at an object (six metres) away. 4 (Why 20 or play a round of

Teach them the importance with soap and warm water to wash their face.

BOOK THEIR ANNUAL RECOMMENDATIONS

A periodic eye test

Make sure your child early detection and learning.

PACEKIDS PROGRAMS

#808 - 55 Avenue NE and #130 - 23 Sunpark Drive SE

Phone: 403-234-7876

Email: info@pacekids.ca Website: pacekids.ca

Pacekids Programs is a charitable organization that strives to empower children with diverse needs and their families through excellence in therapy and education. Pacekids provides preschool and kindergarten programs for children aged two years and eight months to six years that can be accessed through Program Unit Funding (PUF) with Alberta Education. Pacekids also offers six programs for children aged six months to 17 years funded through Family Services for Children with Disabilities (FSCD). Pacekids provides access to immediate private assessment and direct therapy options for children with special needs.

PHOENIX EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Phone: 403-265-7701

Email: info@phoenixfoundation.ca

Website: phoenixfoundation.ca

Phoenix Education Foundation is an Alberta-accredited private, non-profit, independent school. Phoenix is a Kindergarten to Grade 9 school and offers Home Education, Online and BlendEd options. Base programs are FREE and covered by Alberta Education funding. Our unique ‘In-the-Scene’ thematic classes offer hands-on immersive instruction. This year's themes are Dinosaurs, Ancient Egypt, Stinky Stuff and Great Migrations. Check out our website for more info.

PROVIDENCE

Phone: 403-255-5577

Email: info@providencechildren.com

Website: providencechildren.com

Providence offers two unique Alberta Education-funded program streams: those based in our own six schools across Calgary and those based in approved community preschools or child care programs (our LEARN Program). Both programs are designed to support children identified with a delay or disability from ages two years and eight months to six. To attend, a child must qualify for special education funding (Program Unit Funding (PUF)). Five of our locations are currently mobility accessible.

RUNDLE: ACADEMY & STUDIO

Phone: 403-291-3866

Email: contactus@rundle.ab.ca

Website: rundle.ab.ca

Rundle Academy is a private, co-educational day school for students in Grades 4 to 12 with a diagnosed learning disability with or without ADHD. Rundle Studio follows the same exceptional model as the Academy program providing a virtual program

for students in Grades 7 to 9 with a diagnosed learning disability with or without ADHD. Our schools provide a premier educational experience focusing on character, academics, and cocurricular pursuits.

UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY ACTIVE LIVING

Phone: 403-220-7749

Email: active@ucalgary.ca

Website: active-living.ucalgary.ca

The Adapted Physical Activity for Kids (APAK) program offers children six to 16 years-old with special needs the opportunity to gain independence and develop fundamental movement skills in an encouraging and understanding environment. Each child works one-onone with a volunteer and can choose a variety of sport specific activities to take part in. All abilities are welcome, and all skills will be adapted and modified as needed.

VECOVA RECREATION CENTRE

Phone: 403-284-2231

Email: recinfo@vecova.ca Website: vecova.ca

We have something For everybody at Vecova’s Aquatics, Health and Fitness – inclusive programs for you, your family and friends. Check out our programming for youth and children – including swim lessons, drop-in swim and play times, Adapted Recreation and more! Our programs are made for people of every age, ability and skill level to help met their wellness goals. Discover the right program for you today!

WERKLUND SCHOOL OF EDUCATION Education Tower #408, 2500 University Drive NW

Phone: 403-220-2851

Email: wise@ucalgary.ca

Website: werklund.ucalgary.ca/centre-for-wellbeing-ineducation

The Centre for Wellbeing’s Integrated Services in Education Clinic offers high-quality psychoeducational assessments and interventions for children and youth. Is your child losing interest in school, excessively sad or worried, not readily grasping new skills? Are you concerned that they may have a learning disability? We can help. Services are facilitated by Werklund School of Education graduate student-clinicians under the direction of registered Supervising Psychologists. Assessments provided at reduced rates. Certain interventions free of charge.

YOUTH SINGERS OF CALGARY

Phone: 403-234-9549

Email: yscadmin@youthsingers.org

Website: youthsingers.org

Youth Singers of Calgary offers programming for youth (ages nine and up) and young adults with cognitive delays to participate in the performing arts. STAR (Special Talents in Arts and Recreation) provide an interactive

experience using voice, movement, and instruments to foster a love of music and dance in a safe, stimulating, and fun environment.

INCLUSIVE & ACCESSIBLE FUN

CALAWAY PARK Website: calawaypark.com

At Calaway Park, it’s all about family fun! For more information, visit the website for Calaway Park’s Special Needs and Special Needs Aide admission rates.

CANADIAN POWER HOCKEY LEAGUE

Phone:403-452-5781

Email: info@powerhockey.ca

Website: powerhockey.ca

The Calgary PowerHockey League (CPHL) is dedicated to providing a quality adaptive hockey program for all persons 12 or older who require the use of an electric wheelchair for daily mobility.

CITY OF CALGARY RECREATION

Various Locations

Phone: 403-268-3800

Website: calgary.ca/dropin

What does your family live to do? We offer hundreds of affordable and dynamic activities and classes for everyone in your family. We encourage children and adults to explore new leisure interests, make friends and develop new skills in a fun, safe, non-competitive environment. Drop-in to public or lane swimming, fitness in the pool or in a studio or weight room, skating & hockey, sports and more! Visit calgary.ca/dropin.

GRANARY ROAD

226066 112 Street W, Foothills County

Phone: 403-453-7623

Email: info@granaryroad.com Website: granaryroad.com

MNP COMMUNITY & SPORT CENTRE (FORMERLY REPSOL SPORTS CENTRE)

2225 Macleod Trail South

Phone: 403-233-8393

Email: info@mnpcentre.com Website: mnpcentre.com

Register For Music Lessons Today

Piano, Guitar, Drums, Strings & more!

Why Choose Long & McQuade?

Music lessons for all ages, stages, and styles. Professional instructors make learning fun. Convenient lesson times for busy families. No registration fees. Affordable instrument rentals.

AND IN-STUDIO LESSONS AVAILABLE.

family wellness & inclusivity 48 • Find us on 225 58 Ave. SE • (403) 252-8506 • calgarychinooklessons@long-mcquade.com 3404 5 Ave. NE • (587) 296-6648 • calgaryeastlessons@long-mcquade.com 10 Royal Vista Dr. NW • (587) 794-3196 • calgaryroyalvistalessons@long-mcquade.com We offer a variety of Registered Programs for all ages and skill levels. Learn to swim programs from ages four months to adult. More advanced swimmers can join one of our Swim Clubs or take their interest in lifesaving to the next level with organized Lifesaving Leadership courses. Get them active early in the Active Living Program for preschool-aged children. Keep active during PD Camps, including Winter Break. A Membership at MNP

Community & Sport Centre gives you unlimited access to all group fitness classes, fitness centre, five gyms, two pools, hot tub, cold tub, steam room, two tracks, and so much more - all under one roof at a great rate!

STORYBOOK THEATRE

Phone: 403-216-0808, Ext. 2

Email: theatreschool@storybooktheatre.org Website: storybooktheatre.org

For over 42 years, StoryBook Theatre has been entertaining families from all over Calgary with our award-winning professional, quality shows. We also provide a year-round Theatre School for children ages six to 18, which is designed to develop acting skills, selfconfidence, teamwork, and stagecraft abilities.

TRICO CENTRE FOR FAMILY WELLNESS

Phone: 403-278-7542

Email: guestservices@tricocentre.ca

Website: tricocentre.ca

Trico Centre for Family Wellness wants your family to be #tricotough and active! Come swim with us in our wave pool with waterslide, water features, hot tub, and steam rooms. We offer many children’s programs: skating, swimming, dance, gymnastics, and martial arts to teach children the fundamental movement skills, confidence, and how fun it is to be active. Huge, clean fitness center, bright pool, hockey arenas. We offer activities for all ages!

UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY ACTIVE LIVING

Phone: 403-220-7749

Email: active@ucalgary.ca

Website: active-living.ucalgary.ca

The Adapted Physical Activity for Kids (APAK) program offers children six to 16 years-old with special needs

the opportunity to gain independence and develop fundamental movement skills in an encouraging and understanding environment. Each child works one-onone with a volunteer and can choose a variety of sport specific activities to take part in. All abilities are welcome, and all skills will be adapted and modified as needed.

UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY KINESIOLOGY

Phone: 403-220-7749

Email: active@ucalgary.ca

Website: active-living.ucalgary.ca

Active Living, part of the Faculty of Kinesiology at the University of Calgary, provides health and wellness programs, facilities, and educational opportunities that encourage lifelong active Living for all. Our programs are open to the public and include health and fitness programs like group fitness classes and personal training, aquatic and First Aid certifications, sports programs, kids' programs, and University of Calgary Summer Camps.

VIN GOGH PAINT SIP STUDIO

Phone: 403-475-4644

Email: info@vingogh.ca

Website: vingogh.ca

Vin Gogh Paint Sip Studio is the place for painting parties! We host parties for both kids and adults.

VIVO FOR HEALTHIER GENERATIONS

1950 Country Village Link NE

Phone: 403-532-1013

Email: guestservices@vivo.ca

Website: vivo.ca

Skate, swim, dance, climb, create, connect, and explore. Come in from the cold for family fun at Vivo with a wide

variety of unique and innovative programs and activities for parents and children alike. Get active, get healthy, and do it together! Visit vivo.ca and discover your passion today!

WILDER INSTITUTE/ CALGARY ZOO

210 St. George’s Drive NE

Phone: 403-232-9300

Email: guestrelations@calgaryzoo.com Website: calgaryzoo.com

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is proud to offer a safe, inclusive space for visitors of all abilities from across the world to learn about wildlife conservation. In addition to the nearly 1,000 creatures you’ll find at the zoo, visitors can explore a nature-inspired interactive play space, with accessible and inclusive play features, located in the Canadian Wilds. The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo also offers a wide range of accessibility services, including wheelchair and power chair rentals, complimentary access for qualified attendants (with ID), and certified service dog entry. To learn more, visit the website.

YMCA CALGARY

Six Locations in Calgary Website: ymcacalgary.org

YMCA Calgary has six health and wellness facilities, six child development centres with licensed child care, two outdoor camp sites, and over 60 community program sites serving all quadrants of the city. These spaces and programs allow YMCA Calgary to deliver programs, services, and opportunities to help the Calgary community connect with others, build lifelong skills, and keep active and healthy.

Family wellness directory – Continued on next page

&

YYC NATURE & EDUCATION CENTRE

#2 - 1381 Hastings Crescent SE

Phone: 403-457-2202

Email: yycnaturecentre@gmail.com

Website: yycnaturecentre.com

Connect with animals! The YYC Nature & Education Centre is an accessible facility. Book a private experience to facilitate your sensory needs. Our staff has experience to provide an inclusive encounter with small groups and can customize your experience. We offer birthday parties and other programs as well! Limited birthday party spots available. Meet reptiles, birds, mammals and more. Experience Nature at the YYC Nature & Education Centre!

MEDICAL & MENTAL HEALTH CARE

ABS PSYCHOLOGY

Phone: 587-894-PSYC (7792)

Email: abs.psychology@gmail.com

ABS Psychological Services was founded by Alexandra Suvanto, Registered Provisional Psychologist. She provides therapy to children, adolescents, and their families. Support for school staff is also offered, along with private assessments. Alexandra’s passion is helping young minds explore their world a little more clearly, allowing the chance for growth and change when ready. Our goal is to work together to open a door to conversation, provide a safe space to express different emotions and problem-solve together.

ALBERTA ASSOCIATION OF OPTOMETRISTS

Phone: 1-800-272-8843

Website: optometrists.ab.ca

It’s not uncommon for parents to believe they would know if their child has a vision problem, as these issues can be hard to spot, particularly if there is a problem in

one eye only. Because 80 percent of learning is visual, annual comprehensive eye exams with your doctor of optometry are recommended and are covered by Alberta Health. Use ‘Find an Optometrist’ on our website to find an optometrist close to you.

ALBERTA HEALTH SERVICES (HEALTHLINK) Phone: 811

ALBERTA HEALTH SERVICES PERINATAL EDUCATION Website: birthandbabies.com

Join our classes! Alberta Health Services Professional Parenting Educators provide reliable, current parenting and early childhood education.

DISCOVERY PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

2224 20 Avenue NW

Website: discoverypsych.ca

Through Discovery Psychological Services, your child or youth can receive a psychoeducational assessment to identify their learning strengths and challenges.

SAGE CENTRE

Website: sagecentre.ca

Sage Centre, through its Child and Family Grief Services, supports families with children and teens (ages five to 18) who are grieving the death of a loved one or who have a family member facing life-threatening illness.

ROKBAND PEDIATRIC HEADSHAPE CLINIC #414 - 4935 40 Avenue NW

Phone: 1-844-944-3237

Email: hello@rokbandclinics.ca

Website: rokbandclinics.ca

ROKband Pediatric HeadShape Clinics specialize in the education and prevention of baby head shape asymmetry. Our clinics have a specialized staff that is trained to deal with

cranial issues only which means that each family that comes through our doors is on the same journey. We offer two free visits - one initial assessment and then a rescan to track, if required. We are Canada's largest HeadShape clinic boasting the world leading technology, products and training. We've recently had an independent study (published) showing ROKband has (by far) the least side effects associated with treatment. Come for your free assessment today!

FOOD & NUTRITION

AMARANTH STORES

Four Locations in Calgary Website: amaranthfoods.ca

Since 1994, Amaranth has provided the best in healthy groceries and supplements. We have everything you need from allergen-friendly choices to hard-to-find bulk herbs and spices. As always, if you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our friendly staff. Thanks for supporting us, Calgary!

NORTHERNSTAR MOTHERS MILK BANK

Phone: 403-475-6455

Email: contact@northernstarmilkbank.ca Website: northernstarmilkbank.ca

REAL CANADIAN SUPERSTORE

Various Locations in Calgary Website: realcanadiansuperstore.ca

We bring you great prices on your favorite products and services all together under one roof. Discover our great quality and variety of foods, stylish products for your home, and a complete pharmacy to serve all of your family’s needs.

This listing is provided for your reference only. Please research carefully and choose the company that meets your family’s needs best. CCM

IMAGINE YOUR CHILD FEELING LIKE THEY BELONG AT SCHOOL

A school for students with learning disabilities with or without ADHD.

discussing disabilities

Opening a dialogue about your child’s challenges

By Stacie Gaetz

TALKING TO YOUR CHILD ABOUT THEIR DISABILITY

“How come I’m not like other kids?” This can be an absolutely heart-wrenching question for any parent of a child with special needs to answer.

Difficult as it may be, it's important to be willing to talk to your child about their disability. It is part of their identity. Talking about their special needs will reduce the chances that your child will feel ashamed, embarrassed, or confused about who they are. They will also be better able to explain themselves to others, with confidence.

“Talking to your child about disability is not a ‘one and done’ conversation,” says Sandra Cicman, resource links director of Children’s Link Society.

“You’ll likely need to revisit it many times as your child’s developmental level changes, or new questions/ issues arise. These discussions are so important, as they shape the way your child will feel about themselves, their capabilities, and their future potential.”

n Open the discussion

As a first step, it may be helpful to read a book about disabilities and special needs with your child.

“Reading books that have themes about inclusivity and diversity, as well as books that feature children with specific differences or disabilities, can open the door to learning and expressing thoughts and emotions,” Sandra says.

She recommends It’s OK To Be Different by Todd Parr as a great book to start with.

When reading together, or whenever a question comes up, it is best to answer as directly, clearly, and honestly as possible.

When speaking about differences and disability, model the language you would like your child to use when explaining to others. Ask your child what they want other people to know.

Help them make a ‘script’ of things they can say to others, if questions are asked, or if strangers give them looks.

For children who are non-verbal, consider using a visual – such as a card that can be attached to a backpack or carried in a pocket to explain the disability.

n Discuss everyone’s uniqueness

Prior to a discussion about specifics, it is important

that our children first appreciate that every person is unique and has different strengths, challenges, and things to contribute.

“Any time you may be talking to your child about challenges, be sure to balance this out by mentioning strengths as well,” says Sandra.

“It is useful to normalize the fact that we all have things we struggle with, and we also all have gifts and strengths.”

It is helpful to seek advice from professionals. You can consult with psychologists, pediatricians, special educators, and/or therapists, who may have valuable insights to offer on how to discuss your child’s disability with them.

Another thing that parents can do is help their children meet other children, youth, adults and mentors with disabilities and differences at places like camps or community groups.

One of the most important things to remember is to emphasize to your child that being different doesn't mean being “less than.” Let them know and constantly reinforce that it is possible to live a flourishing and fulfilling life with a disability.

TALKING TO OTHERS ABOUT YOUR CHILD’S DISABILITY

Parents of a child with special needs have all seen the looks strangers give them at the playground, or heard the unwanted advice on how they should handle a situation from a stranger.

n Things to avoid

Just as it is important to know what to say, it is also essential to know when to stop talking and listen. They may need some space to process and ask questions. If you notice your child starting to shut down, lose interest or get restless, end the discussion and be open to talking about it again another time.

Avoid long, convoluted explanations about complex subjects. Although their condition may be very involved, it is best to keep things simple and age appropriate. Talk about their challenges as they relate to their daily lives.

Try to avoid language that could lead your child to use their disability as an excuse not to do things. You can do this by consistently building on their strengths and focus on finding solutions to the problems that their disability presents rather than describing it as a weakness.

n Remember, you aren’t alone

Talking with other parents who understand your situation, or are further ahead on the journey, can help you feel more comfortable.

Although it’s sometimes hard to face this judgment from someone you don’t know, it doesn’t compare to the pain of your neurotypical child saying you don’t love them as much because you give more attention to their neurodiverse sibling or your mother telling you that you “just need to be more strict” with your child with special needs.

Whether their disability is physical, developmental or cognitive, those who live with, care for, or spend any time at all with your child may have questions they are uncomfortable asking.

Here are some tips for opening up the disability discussion with the people in your lives:

n Discussions with sibling(s)

Create a safe place where siblings can share their thoughts and feelings, without a sense of judgment. Be curious – ask the sibling questions about their feelings and honor their responses.

Check in often and take time to explore why siblings feel the way they do about some of the issues that may arise.

Talk with the sibling about why the child with a disability may need more attention.

Between Friends provides quality social, recreation, and development opportunities so that people with disabilities can connect, grow, and belong.

“Talking about their special needs will reduce the chances that your child will feel ashamed, embarrassed, or confused about who they are.”

“Tell your ‘typical’ child(ren) that they are equally as important to you and that their needs matter just as much as their sibling’s needs do,” says Sandra.

“Be intentional about your desire to plan some special time, focussed solely on the sibling(s) without the disability.”

Here are four practical ways to talk to your typical child about their sibling with special needs:

• Ask them what they think about their sibling’s needs. Fill in any gaps or correct misunderstandings with simple, age-appropriate statements.

• Use simple language and ideas that they can understand. “Your brother has a hard time regulating his emotions and his body and he needs mom or dad’s help to calm down.”

• Include your child in decision-making. For example, if it is their birthday, let them help decide how they might like their sibling with a disability to be involved or if they need some one-on-one time.

• Normalize needs and emotions. Tell your child that we all have needs, they just have to be met in different ways. Emphasize that we all feel things like jealousy at different times and for different reasons.

Affirm that it is okay to express their needs, talk about their needs, and work together to find ways for everyone in the family to have their needs met.

n Discussions with grandparents

Different generations sometimes have conflicting views on a variety of parenting matters, approaches to discipline, and the concept of disability.

The parent/grandparent relationship is an important one to nurture and support. It is worth putting effort into maintaining positive communication and healthy relationships.

“When informing grandparents about the disability, the process would be much the same as talking with a sibling or your child themselves,” says Sandra.

“Be honest, direct, provide facts, answer questions as they arise, and be as open as possible. Provide grandparents with handouts/articles to read, video clips to watch, or information you feel would be useful to help increase their understanding.”

It may be helpful to speak with grandparents about what your current goals are for your child. “Lately we have been working on…” Once they understand what you are working on, let them know how they can best participate. “You could really help us out by…”

STEPS TO EXPLAIN A CHILD’S DIAGNOSIS TO THEM:

• Come to terms with the disability yourself.

• Start with a general discussion about differences, including strengths and challenges.

Discuss their changing needs on a regular basis.

• Know when to stop talking and listen.

• Help your child become their own advocate.

Keep in mind that not every question needs an explanation or answer, you don’t need to defend every parenting decision you make, and it is okay to set boundaries with grandparents and adjust them as needed.

n Discussions with strangers

It is difficult for parents to be in a public place and to have people react in a judgemental manner about their child with a disability or their parenting of their child.

“As a parent of a child with a disability, you are well within your rights to just ignore anyone who is giving you questionable looks or comments in a public venue,” says Sandra.

However, there are a few phrases you can use that can be helpful:

• “Thanks for understanding – my child finds public places difficult to manage.”

• “Not our best day, but we’ll make it through!”

• “Thanks for your opinion, but it’s not helpful right now.”

• “You seem very curious. Do you have a specific question?”

Opening the dialogue about your child’s disability is an important step. These discussions shape the way your child will feel about themselves and how they present themselves to others as they grow.

Stacie is the editorial assistant of Calgary’s Child Magazine and mother of a delightful daughter and silly son. Her days are filled with playing in parks, creating crafts and keeping up with the chaos. She thoroughly enjoys supporting, connecting and informing parents through interesting stories like this one.

New Heights School & Learning Services is a registered charitable organization and a Designated Special Education Private School. We opened our doors in 1999 to 12 students in our preschool and early intervention programs, with the simple goal of giving families a safe and friendly community to support their needs and build their capacity. Our goal is to equip each student with the skills they need to engage in and contribute to the community around them.

Newheightscalgary.com (403) 240-1312

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igniting

in Calgary!

5 expert tips to help teens with ADHD

By Cheryl Maguire

“I got detention for forgetting my book three times in a row,” read Michael’s text. His mother wasn’t surprised. Michael was diagnosed with ADHD when he was eight years old, and she’s received other messages saying he misplaced or even forgot to do his homework. His mother hoped that he’d be more organized by 13, and she wonders if this is typical teenage behavior or if it’s due to his ADHD.

“Everyone has ADHD behavior at times,” says Dr. Sarah Cheyette, a pediatric neurologist and author of the book, ADHD & The Focused Mind. Cheyette says the difference between a person with ADHD and other people is that the person with ADHD is unfocused too much of the time.

“There are differences between a child and a teen with ADHD,” Dr. Cheyette says.

When a younger child has ADHD, parents tend to be more forgiving and helpful with their unfocused behaviors. A teen with ADHD may want their independence but lack the skills to focus and control their impulses. This can lead to more severe consequences than when they were younger. But parents can help their teens with ADHD improve their focus.

5 Ways to Improve Focus for Kids with ADHD:

1. POSITIVE THINKING

When a teen is interested in doing a particular task, it will be easier to accomplish.

“Most people become more focused when they decide they want to do something,” says Dr. Cheyette. “If you say to yourself, ‘I don’t feel like doing this,’ then you probably won’t.”

For example, if your teen doesn’t like doing homework, encouraging them to change their mindset can help improve their focus. Reframing the negative thought (“I don’t want to do my homework”) in a more positive light (“Finishing my homework will make me feel good about this class”) can help a teen become more focused and complete the task.

2. THE RIGHT SURROUNDINGS

Emily, a parent of a 14-year-old son diagnosed with ADHD, has found that choosing the right environment helps her son’s mindset.

“I encourage him to stay after school to do his homework,” she says. “This way he doesn’t become distracted by things at home, like his phone, and he can receive help from his teachers.”

3. HEALTHY LIFESTYLE CHOICES

Dr. Cheyette also stresses the importance of a healthy lifestyle for improving and maintaining focus. Eating healthy, getting enough sleep and making time to exercise can all contribute to improved focus for teens with ADHD. Sleep problems can lead to issues with memory and impulse control for any child, but especially kids with ADHD.

Jen, a parent to a 12-year-old daughter diagnosed with ADHD, agrees with Cheyette about the importance of eating healthy and getting enough sleep. Her daughter experiences intense mood swings and an inability to deal with stress when she doesn’t eat or sleep well.

4. SETTING GOALS

Dr. Cheyette says that setting goals can help teens with ADHD improve their focus and achieving their goals will help them feel successful. As a parent, you may be tempted to provide directions or nag your child to make sure they are working towards their goals, but it’s important for teens to actively set and own their goals.

But you can still help them. “Make observations and ask questions,” Dr. Cheyette recommends. “If you notice your son’s backpack is a mess, instead of saying, ‘You need to organize your backpack,’ try saying, ‘It must be difficult to find your homework when your backpack looks like this’ or ‘How are you able to find your homework?’”

Once you’ve framed the problem, she says, “Ask questions such as, ‘How can you help yourself?’ or ‘How can you act differently next time?’ to allow your child to think about and own their behaviors.”

5. MEDICATION

Like younger kids, teens can benefit from medication. Amy, a parent of a 15-year-old son diagnosed with ADHD, bought her son a trampoline to use after school to help him release his energy. And the exercise was helpful. But she saw the most improvement when her son began taking medication.

“Once he was medicated he could use self-regulating strategies,” she says. “Before that, he wasn’t able to learn these strategies since he couldn’t pay attention.”

Dr. Cheyette reminds parents that you are your child’s best advocate, and the parents interviewed here agree.

“The best advice I can give other parents is to tell them that there may be really bad times, but your child needs to know that you are in their court,” Jen says. “When your child feels like a failure or has no friends or school is horrible, they need to be able to come home to you and release their frustrations and emotions.”

Cheryl holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Grown and Flown, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05.

“The best advice I can give other parents is to tell them that there may be really bad times, but your child needs to know that you are in their court.”

Inclusion Alberta’s Supportive Communities: Strengthening Families initiative

Increasing community inclusion for kids with disabilities

By Calgary's Child

Supportive Communities: Strengthening Families (SCSF) is assisting families to develop a vision for an inclusive life in the community and exploring innovative ways to increase community inclusion for children and youth (0-17) with developmental disabilities.

All parents need support from family or community – from grandparents to babysitters to community organizations and recreational activities. For parents who have children with developmental disabilities this is referred to as “respite”. We do not normally refer to these experiences as “respite“, however, because this need for support is viewed as a natural part of raising children.

Parents get a break and children get to grow and learn through new experiences. Extended family members and the community-at-large share in the responsibility to provide this support, as it is to the advantage of all families and the development of children. However, many families who have children with disabilities do not have ready access to these ordinary and natural supports.

The initiative is designed to assist families to develop a vision for an inclusive life in the community, including the transition to adulthood, and to create an action plan towards achieving this vision. We believe that the plan for a healthy transition to adulthood involves being immersed in the natural opportunities and pathways to adulthood experienced by youth without disabilities. The SCSF Facilitator will practically support families

in taking the necessary steps to facilitate their son or daughter’s inclusion in a variety of activities such as participation in community recreation and leisure, part-time employment, membership in clubs, groups,

Long-Term Benefits

The benefits of respite care, planning and community inclusion are substantial and well documented. These include sustaining the integrity of the family; strengthening the family; preventing family breakdown; reducing the risk of abuse and neglect in the home; and creating natural sustainable networks of support that extend beyond the child’s youth and into adulthood.

On an economic level, the cost associated with the provision of respite is trivial relative to the cost of services that must be provided to care for children outside their home as well as the economic loss incurred by families when parents are unable to work as a consequence of insufficient respite.

If you have any questions about our Supportive Communities: Strengthening Families initiative or if you would like more information on how to get involved, please contact one of our facilitators. CCM

faith communities, etc. When necessary, the facilitator will assist the family to recruit support staff to facilitate their son or daughter’s meaningful engagement in community. The initiative will also work with community organizations and businesses to enhance their capacity to enable and facilitate the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities.

CALGARY AND AREA: supportivecommunities-calgary@inclusionalberta.org 587-393-7065 or toll free at 1-800-252-7556 ext. 200

“A healthy transition to adulthood involves being immersed in the natural opportunities and pathways to adulthood experienced by youth without disabilities.“

There’s

Calgary’s best kept

accessible athletics

Making sports available to all

By Rocky Mountain Adaptive

The benefits of taking part in sports are abundant. They include physical fitness, increased self-esteem, improved social skills and enhanced academic performance among many, many others. These advantages should extend to all regardless of their abilities – that’s where adaptive sports come in.

What are adaptive sports?

Adaptive sports are activities that take into consideration the abilities of each individual or group. Modifications are made to equipment and support is offered to remove barriers to activity. Adaptive sports are abilities based.

“Adaptive sports can range from never-ever beginner to elite competition in international competitions. Most people, however, participate in adaptive sports to get into nature, do activities with their friends and family, and to connect with new friends and peer groups,” adds Janine.

There are dozens of adaptive sports offerings in the Calgary area, including winter sports (skiing, tobogganing, snowshoeing, skating, etc.) and summer sports (hiking, swimming, fishing, golfing, sailing, fencing, etc.)

Adaptive sports are a good fit for individuals who are neurodivergent (autism, ADHD, dyslexia etc.), or have sensory or physical challenges which can limit access to regular sports and programs.

Why take part?

For those with challenges, taking part in adaptive sports gives them a sense of belonging and feeling of inclusion.

“For many families, adaptive sports and recreational activities have become part of their traditions and are an important way to experience time together,” says Janine.

“As guests returned to outdoor activities (after the COVID-19 restrictions were lifted), we witnessed major social recovery as individuals reconnected with familiar instructors, volunteers, and friends in the programs. They also reconnected with their favorite outdoor places such as lakes, biking trails, and ski areas. Guests quickly made gains in their physical and mental well-being with a return to adaptive sports and recreation.”

“By working with each person’s unique abilities and strengths, by providing specialized adaptive equipment, professional instructors, and experienced support, we can remove the barriers to participation,” says Janine Giles, outreach coordinator with Rocky Mountain Adaptive.

Rocky Mountain Adaptive is a Canmore-based registered charity, which provides multiple activity programs at minimal cost to enable children and youth with physical, developmental or cognitive impairments to participate, learn and excel in mountain sport and recreation activities.

Additional benefits of taking part in adaptive sports include increased independence, self-esteem, strength, coordination, mobility, motor planning, movement execution, and overall health and well-being.

For more information about adaptive sport and programming opportunities near you, visit Rocky Mountain Adaptive (rockymountainadaptive.com), Sport Calgary (sportcalgary.ca) and Calgary Adapted Hub (calgaryadaptedhub.com).

“For many families, adaptive sports and recreational activities have become part of their traditions and are an important way to experience time together.”

10 City of Calgary inclusive playgrounds

By Dana Wheatley; Photos courtesy of Dana Wheatley

The City of Calgary has a number of inclusive playgrounds. Dana Wheatley, founder of Calgary Playground Review has visited ten of them to bring you all you need to know about these amazing new playgrounds.

1 Somerset Park Inclusive Playground

Somerset- 999 Somerset Drive SW

The new inclusive playground and spray park has turned Somerset Park from a good play area to a great park. The playground has so much to offer and is a great place for a wide age range. It is one of the best all-around family fun parks in the city.

The playground has some really great features such as the cool rope climber, which will be a hit with bigger kids and the ground-level merry-go-round, which all kids will love.

2 Edworthy Park Inclusive Playground

South Access – 5050 Spruce Drive SW (Bow Trail and Spruce Drive SW)

North Access – Shaganappi Trail and 16 Avenue.

Edworthy Park has long been one of Calgarian’s favorite parks. The park is located along the river and has lots of trees and picnic spaces. It is now even better with this new inclusive playground that fits right into the scenic backdrop.

3 South Glenmore Park Inclusive Playground 90 Avenue and 24 Street SW

South Glenmore Park just keeps getting better.

This Variety Children’s Park was one of the first accessible playgrounds in the city. In recent years, the park has gained a bike park, as well as a music garden, a short distance away from the main playground.

Last year, the main play area next to the spray park was replaced with a new inclusive playground. The only downside to this park is its popularity which can make it crowded and hard to park, particularly on hot days.

4 Hidden Hut Inclusive Playground

10504 Hidden Valley Drive NW

This playground is excellent and really well thought out. It provides exciting and inclusive play opportunities for kids of all ages and abilities. They have managed to include so many different elements in the space and the flow is great. A destination playground for sure.

5 North Glenmore Park Inclusive Playground

7305 24 Street SW

This playground is located in a popular picnic park along the North side of the Glenmore reservoir. There is a large variety of equipment that will appeal to both little kids and bigger kids, including a double zipline and musical features.

6 Vivo Inclusive Playground

Country Village Road NE and Country Village Way NE

Located near Vivo recreation centre, this new playground is a great new place to play. It boasts some cool climbing features, a ground-level merry-go-round and a covered picnic area nearby.

7 Elliston Park Inclusive Playground

1827 68 Street SE (south of 17th Avenue between 60th and 68th)

Elliston Park is the home of Globalfest and is now also the home of a fun new inclusive playground. The park is a great place for a family picnic and the playground has a lot of popular features, like interesting climbing equipment, musical instruments and a giant web climber.

8 Ramsay Inclusive Playground

Ramsay – MacDonald Avenue SE and Bellevue Avenue SE

One of the coolest new playgrounds in Calgary, Ramsay Inclusive Playground is spread across two different tiers connected by an accessible pathway. The playground has really great views of downtown.

9 Ted Harrison School Inclusive Playground

Taradale – 215 Taravista Way NE

The setting of this playground isn’t amazing but the playground itself is pretty great. The playground is fully fenced, has a huge ramp system and an interesting web climber in the centre of the play area.

10 Sandy Beach Inclusive Playground

Altadore – 4500 14A Street SW

The setting of this playground is lovely, and the park also has great access to the Elbow River. The playground has fun musical features, a fun four-person seated spinner and a variety of swings. Note: the parking lot here is fairly small for the popularity of the park.

Dana searches out the best places to play, eat, and learn with her kids in Calgary, across Alberta, and beyond. Her three kids also contribute their unfiltered opinions to her reviews. To explore more, visit calgaryplaygroundreview.com and follow her on Instagram @yycdana.

Somerset

Edworthy

avoiding “elephant fights”

Modeling healthy conflict strategies

By Dr. Brent MacDonald

“When elephants fight, it’s the grass that gets trampled” – Kenyan Proverb

Conflict is not always a bad thing. Many positives come from conflict, not the least of which is learning how to resolve conflict itself in a peaceful and productive manner. Destructive conflict, on the other hand, serves little good. In my practice, I have found that some of the most significant change in clients – kids and adults alike – comes from conflict. Conflict suggests a state of discomfort and if we are uncomfortable, we wish to change whatever it is that is causing our discomfort, from a pair of socks that are on wrong (you know what I mean, that little seam by the toes that, if it is not sitting nicely atop your foot, can drive you to a state approaching rage) to having learning problems in a classroom. Some things we can change easily, some take more effort and support, but we can change. To quote Rocky after his improbable win over Ivan Drago in Rocky IV, “If I can change, and

well-intended and “for the good of the child,” but unfortunately, such best intentions are often simply a cover for the protection of the adult ego. I have had countless conversations with parents going through struggles with custody following separation and/or divorce in which all parents have said, independent of one another “I only want what is best for my child.”

They then go on to explain why they are the best – and occasionally, only – choice that can be made in terms of custody. They say that they never speak negatively about the other parent – and then go on to say some of the most insidious things about that very person (or their new partners). This is all ego, acting in the disguise of “the best interests of the child.” And please be aware, nothing in these situations is as simple as what I am presenting here. I am simply emphasizing certain familiar patterns of behavior that are more common than one would expect.

We need to remember that the way we deal with conflict as adults is how our children learn about dealing with conflict. Very much a monkey-see, monkey-do situation. We can provide all sorts of lessons and demonstrations and curriculum on healthy conflict management, but what kids really look to is how we actually, in real life, approach (or avoid) conflict. That is what they will learn and repeat in their own lives.

“We need to remember that the way we deal with conflict as adults is how our children learn about

Avoiding "elephant fights" – Continued on next page

6 time-saving tips for hectic mornings

Lighten your load with these (simple) ideas

By Stacie Gatz

Back-to-school is an exciting time of year. You come up with new lunch ideas, are eager to help the kids with homework, and vow that this year will be more organized than the last!

By October, the back-to-school excitement has worn off and the number of things on your to-do list continue to add up. Here are some tips to save you time and make the balance of school/work/household less overwhelming:

1 Outsourcing Whenever possible, it can be a huge help to outsource must-do tasks like grocery shopping and cleaning. From grocery store delivery, produce boxes and meal kits waiting for you at your door, there are a number of ways you can get help on those busy weeks when you just can’t spend an hour at the store. Not everyone can afford a regular cleaning person, but if there are any specific tasks that you really dislike or never seem to get around to, it can be worth it to look into the cost to get those taken care of by professional cleaners. You would be surprised how much a deep clean every four or six months can help you keep up with the mess on an ongoing basis.

2 Pre-organizing This is the No. 1 way I save time during the school year. Simple tasks like making lunches and putting out the kids clothes the night before can go a long way in helping things run smoothly in the morning. It can be difficult to get the motivation to do these tasks after the kids have gone to bed (likely the only “me time” you get in a day) but it will save you stress and headaches later. Another way to increase efficiency is to make sure everything is removed from the kids’ backpacks as soon as they step into the house after school. This way lunch kit containers can be washed, and cold packs can be refrozen in time for the next day. This isn’t hard once it is worked into the routine and kids know that they walk in the door, unpack their bags and grab a snack before anything else.

foods they are allowed to have for an after-school-snack. Let them choose from a small selection of foods (I allow one thing from the pantry and one from the fridge each day). If they want more, they get a choice of raw veggies. These bins can include anything your children like that require little to no prep, such as crackers, granola bars, fruit snacks, fruit, cheese strings, yogurt and more.

4 Use technology I would be absolutely lost without the reminder app on my phone. I use it multiple times a day to remember tasks that would otherwise completely slip my mind.

Another great tech tool is a digital family calendar to keep events and extracurriculars organized. If your children are younger, you and your partner can share a calendar so you know whose turn it is to pick up the kids and either of you can easily make changes at a moment’s notice. If your children are older and have their own tech, add them into the digital loop and sync up your calendars every Saturday or Sunday to ensure you are all on the same page for the week to come.

5 Central station Create a spot in your home where everyone in the family can put important documents and necessary items (such as car and house keys and phone and tablet chargers) every day after school. Your children can put papers that need to be read or signed, agendas, completed homework assignments, library books, and other important documents in this area to avoid an extra half an hour looking for these items in the morning.

No matter what tips you use to help lighten the load during the school season, remember that it is important to take time for yourself. The downtime you get after the kids go to bed is time just as well spent as all of the running around you do the rest of the day.

Stacie is the editorial assistant of Calgary’s Child Magazine and mother of a delightful daughter and silly son. Her days are filled with playing in parks, creating crafts and keeping up with the chaos. She thoroughly enjoys supporting, connecting and informing parents through interesting stories like this one.

child – most of these conflicts are truly rooted in what the adults believe to be in the best interests of the child. But how often do we trample the children in what we believe to be their own best interests? Children can learn from observing how adults resolve conflict and if they see mom and dad disparaging the school or teachers, or if they hear parents saying negative things about other parents, particularly when that other parent is not there to engage in healthy conflict management and resolution, what does the child learn?

And then – we see students having conflict at school, with their peers or with teachers. They struggle with resolving conflict independently or even with support. We blame pop media, video games, and so on. To mix my metaphors for a moment, we ignore the elephant fight in the room – the grass is getting trampled by our conflict. Children, being the vulnerable and impressionable people they are, are not great at understanding the “do as I say, not as I do” approach to parenting and teaching, so they do what they observe. And somehow, we get upset with them for doing exactly what our modeling is showing them to do.

We are weird that way.

So, some things to consider:

• Encourage kids to think of conflict as normal, healthy, and a source of learning.

• Role model positive conflict management.

• Fight fair.

• Keep adult things adult – ask this question “Whose needs are being served by my comments? Mine, or my child’s/student’s?” (*And be honest – this is only a question you need to answer and only in your head – feel free to be self-critical!)

3 Snack center The most time-consuming task immediately after school in our house is coming up with an idea for and making a snack. Immediately after school, my kids are famished but after the mental load of the day, they often have a hard time coming up with ideas for what they want to eat when they are presented with too many options. Create a bin in your pantry and another in your fridge (don't forget to put them on the bottom shelves if you have younger kids) that contain all of the

6 Share the load Depending on your household makeup, possibly the most important way to save time and ensure you don’t get overwhelmed is to take turns completing these tasks with your partner. Pre-packing lunches the night before, setting out the kids’ clothes, ensuring their homework is completed, making and cleaning up after dinner, walking the dog, helping kids get ready for bed – these are all tasks that can be switched up, depending either on your work schedules or what works best for your family. Another way to get some things done is by setting standing play dates on certain days of the week with a friend. You have your kids’ friends over to your house one day a week after school and they go over to the friend’s house another day to give you time to run errands, clean or check other tasks off of your to-do list.

• Identify negative approaches to conflict –especially in the media.

• Fill in the blank: “If you can’t say something nice about someone, ____” (hint, the correct response is not “say a bunch of nasty stuff”!)

• Support kids in conflict that is beyond their means of control; adult conflict is beyond their control, some peer conflict is beyond their control, an argument with a sibling over who gets the bigger piece of cake is within their control.

Dr. Brent Macdonald is a frequent guest on CBC, Global Television, Breakfast Television, and CTV. He is currently the lead psychologist with his own practice, Macdonald Psychology Group (complexlearners.com), which in addition to providing counseling and assessment services, also provides consultation services to educators and parents.

“It can be difficult to get the motivation to do these tasks after the kids have gone to bed… but it will save you stress and headaches later.”

Avoiding "elephant fights" – Continued from previous page

learning about shopping local

By Calgary's Child

If you ask most kids where the things in your house came from, they may name their favorite big box store or major online retailer, but it’s important that they know there are local stores that offer a hand-picked selection of high-quality toys, games and books carefully curated with love and care.

Exposure to massive chain stores with dozens of aisles of plastic playthings or books and games ‘magically’ appearing on their doorsteps from online retailers can unintentionally communicate the idea that buying more things faster is best, and divide them from the small businesses in their community.

Teaching your children the importance of supporting local will instill in them community-focused habits that they will carry into their lives as adults, creating a more sustainable outlook and localized economy for us all.

What is local?

The first step is to talk to your kids about what a local business is. Explain that small businesses have few employees and provide products and services to consumers in one neighborhood, community or city. Talk about the fact that the money they spend at these stores support the owners’ family, and small businesses tend to give back to the community they are located in.

Discuss your values

Start a conversation with your kids around what you value as a family when it comes to buying things.

Talk about why it can be important to shop for quality over quantity, and why a small shop with a modest, hand-chosen collection of products can be better for the environment and your community than a huge chain warehouse store which is owned far away. Discuss how small business owners often choose products based on their sustainability or because they were made by someone nearby, or because they’re the very best quality

Let them know that although they may cost a bit more (and that sometimes that extra expense isn’t an option for some families, including your own), the fact the store owner chose the products themselves means that they can be confident that what they bought was selected with care.

Search them out

Get your kids involved in finding local businesses that they are interested in. Look up small businesses in your area online and plan a visit. Let your little ones have a say in which ones you check out!

Don’t forget to set a budget for the whole trip or for each store so no one gets too carried away.

Meet the owner

When you are in a small business, ask to talk to the owner. Let your children ask any questions they may have and hear what the shop owner has to say about their space and products. Allow your kids to ask why they chose the items they did and what is great about them –guaranteed, the proprietor’s passion will be contagious!

It’s not just toys

Let your kids know that small businesses come in all shapes and sizes and provide all kinds of products and services. From local grocery markets to mom and pop restaurants, coffee shops, and gift and flower shops, they can support local in lots of ways now, and as they get older.

For some great local options, check out our We Love Local feature in every issue! CCM

Getting to know the shops in your neighborhood

“Small businesses come in all shapes and sizes and provide all kinds of products and services.”

back to work battles: when “back to normal” isn’t working

Talking about roles and responsibilities

By Calgary's Child

Now that COVID-19 restrictions have been removed by the government, many businesses are slowly making the transition back to employees working in the office. If you’re not back to work outside the home at least a few days a week yet, chances are good that you may be soon.

If you’ve been working from home for over two years, this transition can be a difficult one for everyone in the family.

Although the requirement to work from home was initially a jarring one (and seemed impossible at the time!) people have rearranged their lives to make it work. Changes may have been as small as cleaning out a spare room to create an office, or as big as remodeling or even moving to accommodate the need for work space.

The shift from office to at-home work didn’t happen quickly, and the transition back will take some time to adjust to as well.

In order to make the change as smooth as possible for everyone in the family, there are a number of things you should take into consideration when going back to the office:

Roles may need to change

The roles each family member plays day-to-day may have to change as you go back to work. If you were able to make your kids’ lunches every morning because of the time you saved on your commute, that responsibility may need to be given to your partner, done as a family the night before, or be given to your children if they are old enough.

Other everyday tasks that may need to be adjusted include school and extracurricular drop-offs and pick-ups, daycare arrangements, meal planning, grocery shopping, homework responsibilities and appointment planning.

Mental labor (keeping track of birthday parties, field trips, science projects, meetings and grocery lists) is a lot of work. If you feel that you are becoming overwhelmed by the amount you are expected to remember, this

Set realistic expectations

It may be difficult to know what to expect when you go back. After all, none of us have re-entered the working world after a global pandemic before!

Know that it is normal to be apprehensive and uncomfortable, and for things to feel a bit strange. Your children will mirror these feelings and that may come with more tantrums, separation anxiety, possible regression in some areas and more challenging behaviors. You may have more arguments with your partner as you adjust to new expectations and some balls are dropped.

The best thing to do is make sure you keep the lines of communication open. Talk about upcoming changes and how you are planning to deal with them. Let them know your reasoning behind decisions, and encourage them to ask questions. Allow your children the opportunity to have input on how to make the transitions easier on them and talk about potential problems. (“We’ll have to get up earlier to go to school from now on because I have to be at the office. How can we make sure we’re not rushing in the morning?”)

Stay connected

The increase in time away from your family may be the

Choose a time in the day to check in with your family members one-on-one and see what is planned for the day or how things went.

Be sure to ask open-ended questions and try to stay away from the traditional “how was your day?” questions that are often answered with “I don’t know.”

Asking things like “What was the best part of your day?” or “what are you most concerned about?” can help open the conversation up

Don’t forget to incorporate touch with a gentle hug, hand on the shoulder or allowing your little ones to sit on your lap, even if just for a few minutes.

It may not come as naturally now, but scheduling oneon-one family time can show your kids and partner that they are still a priority to you.

Go easy on yourself

Parenting in a world where COVID-19 exists is hard, no matter where you work.

Parents today have more balls to juggle than ever before, and there is no way to keep them all in the air. It is important to know which need to stay up and which you can put down for a while.

During the transition, work may need to be a priority for a while – but, if you consciously make an effort to communicate and connect with your family, it can help take some pressure off of all of you.

Don’t forget to reach out to friends and family who have made the transition before you. They may have tips and tricks that worked for them. It can be comforting to know that although you are feeling anxious or stressed about all of this, you are not alone.

No matter how your transition goes, the most important thing to remember is that although it will take some time to adapt, eventually your new schedule will seem routine and everything will be back to “normal.” CCM

“Going back to work (after COVID-19 restrictions) does not mean life will be like it was pre-pandemic.”

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