Winter 2022/23

Guide to the Holidays

Balancing family holiday expectations 10 Beautiful family-friendly snowshoe trails near Calgary 11 Christmas cookie exchanges 12 Calgary’s best winter walks 13

CALGARY’S CHILD CALENDAR - What’s Happening? 14 15 ideas for indoor fun on cold winter days 18 Rethinking the gingerbread house 19 Try camping this winter (no tent required) 20

Top 5 unusual things to see in Alberta with kids 21 VOTE NOW 2023 Parents' Choice Awards 22

Class & Program

Extracurricular activities: Communicating expectations 24 Class & Program Directory ............................... 26

Big questions to ask before choosing a class or program 31 Be the sports parent your kid can be proud of. ............ 32 Concussion guide for parents and caregivers 34 Activities – How do you choose? 36

Family Wellness

What does your teen want? 37 5 New Year’s resolutions you might keep 39

Fight the winter blues with movement 40 Keeping your new baby warm this winter 41 Creating connections 43

Education

Tips to help your child gain confidence in the classroom 45 Not making the grade? 46 2023 Education Guide 48

Exploring science and nature with children 54 Preparing for a parent-teacher conference 55 It’s winter time and the reading is good 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

2023 YYC Families

Ad Booking Deadline: December 7, 2022

Release Date: January 23, 2023

YYCFamilies is our annual edition, specially designed to focus on everything you want to know about raising a family right here in the Calgary area. It's a season-by-season reference guide to everything that makes Calgary a great place to raise kids - playgrounds, hidden gems, local landmarks and much more. It's a resource that is useful for every family at every age and stage, whether you've lived in Calgary for 24 years or 24 hours!

2023 CHINOOK ISSUE

Ad Booking Deadline: FEBRUARY 8, 2023

Release Date: MARCH 1, 2023

With the festive season behind us, the days are starting to get a little longer - but the snow is still flying! What is there to do around the city before it starts to warm up again? We've got tons of fun activities to try! Don't miss our Bump, Baby & Toddler Directory full of resources for your new arrival, Early-Bird Camp & Program ideas, and much more!

Contact Us

Phone Number: 403-241-6066 Email:  calgaryschild@shawca

About Us

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: prostooleh © Adobe Stock

Contributors

Trista Arney

Lori Beattie

Ashley Frampton

Julie Freedman Smith

Stacie Gaetz

Tanya Koob Sharon Loose

Sarah Lyons Dr. Brent Macdonald

Debbie Olsen

Jan Pierce

Cara Poppitt

Gwen Randall-Young Alvin Silbert & Linda Silbert

Jan Udlock Karen Ung Dana Wheatley

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)

Our Commitment

Calgary’s Child Magazine is funded and published solely through the support of our advertisers and sponsors. They support us; please support them. With the support of our advertisers, Calgary’s Child Magazine is committed to sponsoring and supporting a variety of organizations that help families in Calgary.

Subscriptions are available at $30 (plus GST) a year.

If you would like information on advertising rates, or if you have some feedback, story ideas or information for our calendar of events, we would like to hear from you.

Calgary’s Child Magazine is published eight times per year. You can find us at hundreds of locations throughout Calgary and area.

The opinions expressed in this publication may not necessarily be those of the publishers. No part of this publication may be reprinted without the expressed written permission of the publishers. Calgary’s Child Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited materials.

Calgary's Child Magazine assumes no liability for the use or misuse of any statement, trademark and/or copyright contained in advertisements and/or advertorial printed in this publication.

ISSN 1198-6069

Calgary’s Child Magazine © 2022 Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement 40015699 Registration Number: 2724960

Stock Images

Certain images in this publication are by stock.adobe.com. This publication also includes images from istockphoto.com.

RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESS TO: CALGARY’S CHILD MAGAZINE #375, 305 - 4625 Varsity Dr. NW, Calgary, AB T3A 0Z9

Our database is confidential. We do not sell, lend or share our information to third parties. For internal use only.

Reach us at Phone: 403-241-6066 Email: calgaryschild@shaw.ca Website: calgaryschild.com

Distribution

Calgary’s Child Magazine is available at hundred of locations around Calgary including elementary schools through the Calgary Catholic District, Calgary Board of Education, Rockyview District, Foothills School Division and Calgary Public Libraries. You can also find Calgary’s Child Magazine in stands at all City of Calgary Recreation facilities, Safeway, Co-op and Sobeys... just to name a few locations.

micromanaging parent…are

By Dr. Brent Macdonald, R. Psych.

Kids need to explore in order to learn. In fact, most child psychologists and educators would agree that exploration is perhaps the primary means of learning in which kids can become more confident, capable, and engaged learners. And it would seem obvious that confidence, capabilities, and engagement in learning are all favorable characteristics parents want to see in their kids.

But sometimes, parents worry. They worry a lot. And when people worry, they try to gain control over the things they worry about. So if we worry about our children’s health, for instance, we ensure that they eat well, sleep well, and have good opportunities for exercise.

These are all positive actions and enhance our children’s health. Exploration, on the other hand, can lead to worry because exploration implies risk. In fact, the core of exploration is risk. And risk makes many parents feel uncomfortable.

An uncomfortable parent may try to manage the risk, but in doing so, you may inadvertently be working against your child’s healthy development. This fear can lead to micromanagement.

Micromanaging takes on many forms, but can often include things like:

• An immediate impulse to say “no” when your child asks to try something risky.

• Obsessing over minutiae – little things like making sure that your child finishes the food on their plate or brushes their teeth for no less than three minutes.

• Having conflictual conversations with teachers/ coaches about what they are doing/not doing to keep your child safe (especially when there is really no significant danger at play).

• Texting your child during school hours.

• Snooping on your child’s social media.

All of these may be 100 percent reasonable actions to be taking under certain circumstances, but if they are happening more often than not, you may just be micromanaging a bit more than necessary. Being aware of your child’s social media habits, for instance, can be done in a way that respects their privacy while also ensuring that they are engaged in safe online behavior.

Overall, it’s okay to be worried – but it’s also okay to let kids get hurt a bit too. Children are tougher than we give them credit for!

Lev Vygotsky, a well know developmental psychologist, spoke of the Zone of Proximal Development. This basically refers to what a child can do independently, what they can do with some adult support, and what they are not yet capable of doing. To avoid micromanaging, try to ensure that you stay out of the zone of things they can do and provide support for things they really need support with.

As adults, we don’t like it when someone offers unsolicited help when we are doing something we are totally capable of doing – think about someone coming to your house and telling you how to vacuum the floor. You’ve vacuumed the floor hundreds of times and you

know what you are doing, so your reaction may be one of frustration or even anger. The same applies to kids.

Your concern for your child is intrinsic to being a good parent, so don’t feel bad if you find yourself micromanaging – but, if you do, try to change your behavior accordingly. Kids need to take risks, and your role as supportive adults is to support them in healthy risk-taking.

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.

you’re not a

you?

How to balance concern for your child with their freedom to take a risk

“Fear can lead to micromanagement which can actually work against your child’s healthy development.”

Love We LOCAL

Hot Homey – @hot_homey

Kitchen and cleaning products are part of our daily lives, so the mission of Hot Homey is to lessen the impact of plastic waste and focus on sustainable living. They make a difference by using all-natural materials and plant-based products. Whether it be single-use plastic bags or non-disposable sponges, it makes a huge difference to the planet. Hot Homey creates practical and eco-friendly products for everyday use to make the world a better place. Learn more at hothomey.ca.

The Sugar Cube –@SugarCubeYYC

The Sugar Cube is Calgary’s mobile candy store! Founded in 2013, serving up sweet, retro candy to the streets in YYC and across the nation. Specializing in Gourmet Cotton Candy (even liquor infused), elevated custom corporate gifting of their signature CandyGrams, and home of their famous holiday Advent Calendars, now you can get your favorite candies delivered directly to your door or office. Learn more at sugarcubeyyc.com.

GroundUp eco-ventures – @groundup_ecoventures

Based in Okotoks, GroundUp eco-ventures upcycles cafe and brewery ingredients to make super flours, baking mixes and sustainable oils that are great for both you and the planet. Upcycling is taking something that is considered waste and repurposing it. As opposed to recycling, in upcycling, those materials are used to create a product of higher quality or value. Learn more at groundupev.com.

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

Lowen’s Natural Skincare –

@lowensskincare

Lowen’s was inspired by and named after the owners’ daughter in 2010. After many unsuccessful trials of conventional diaper balms, they applied their pharmaceutical and clinical knowledge to develop a novel, all-natural remedy – Lowen’s Bum Balm Blues – using unconventional, unrefined, locally sourced ingredients. Lowen’s formulates and retails a variety of balms, lip balms, lotions, cleansers, scrubs, and creams in Calgary. Learn more at lowens.ca.

Kidwich Co. – @kidwichco Kidwich Co. is a locally-owned business that makes delicious, nutritious and crustless sandwiches. Store them in your freezer and pack them in lunchboxes for the ultimate convenience. With spread options including natural peanut butter, twice-the-fruit half-thesugar jam and Canadian-creamed honey, you can create your little ones' favorite Kidwich combo. Substitute Wowbutter or Sunbutter for a school-safe "nut butter." Learn more by following @kidwichco on Instagram or email kidwichco@gmail.com.

Glass House Xperience –@glasshousexperience

Mandy Patchin, award-winning glass artist, created a mobile glass studio located on a 40-foot truck. The side wall of the truck lowers to a 16-foot stage, where magic, molten glass and fire come together as a choreographed dance, an innovation that has allowed Mandy to teach thousands of aspiring enthusiasts. Mandy offers countless handcrafted pieces from functional glass art, drinkware, jewelry, vases, bowls, and other home decor. She also has a line of memorial glass keepsakes that incorporate loved ones’ ashes into a varied selection of unique items. Glass House Xperience is so excited to offer Calgary Child Magazine readers 10 percent off any product or service. Use the code CALGARY10 at checkout online to receive the discount. Learn more at ghxperience.com.

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.

or apply for available volunteer opportunities. For more information on the Project Warmth Society of Alberta, visit projectwarmth.ca.

Further Education Society of Alberta

Since 1996, the Further Education Society of Alberta (FESA) has been strengthening communities, families, and individuals through literacy and learning by advocating, collaborating, and removing barriers. FESA partners with community agencies across Calgary to offer free programs for adult learners. FESA is offering Parent-Child Mother Goose (PCMG) and Reading and Writing Circles (RWC). In PCMG, parents learn rhymes, songs, and stories to teach their children about language. In RWC, participants can write freely and receive nonjudgmental, personalized help with reading, writing, and conversational English.

If you would like to support their work, consider donating to the Christmas campaign to raise money for the Cooks with Stones Program. Cooks with Stones supports Indigenous youth to build traditional skills and knowledge, literacy and essential skills, culinary skills, confidence, and meaningful work experience in tourism and hospitality. For more information on FESA programs and ways to donate, visit furthered.ca.

Take Me Outside

Take Me Outside is a non-profit organization committed to raising awareness and facilitating action on nature connection and outdoor learning in schools across Canada. They believe in a future where spending time outside learning, playing and exploring is a regular and significant part of every student’s day. Take Me Outside works collaboratively with other organizations, school boards and individuals to encourage children and youth to spend more time outside through various projects and initiatives. Their annual initiative – Take Me Outside Day – is a national annual project that sees hundreds of thousands of students and teachers committing to head outside and advocate for outdoor learning. They have turned this initiative into a week-long event, and have Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, storytellers, Olympic athletes, environmental activists and world-renowned authors who give virtual presentations to schools across North America to encourage outdoor fun and exercise. For more information on Take Me Outside, visit takemeoutside.ca.

Project Warmth Society of Alberta

The Project Warmth Society of Alberta is a registered charitable organization that provides warm clothing, blankets, sleeping bags, outerwear, and related items to the underprivileged and homeless. Project Warmth was founded in 1996 and since, has provided more than one million items of warm clothing, outerwear, blankets and sleeping bags to the underprivileged and homeless, either directly to individuals or to schools, social service agencies, drop-in centres and shelters throughout the city. Gently used and new warm clothing is collected year-round at all Calgary fire stations and at drop-off bins throughout the city and is then redistributed among those in need. There are a number of ways to get involved with Project Warmth Society for Alberta. In addition to donating new or gently used winter clothing, you can make a monetary donation to Project Warmth,

Kids Up Front

Kids Up Front (KUF) is an organization that emphasizes a child’s right to be a child. They believe that no matter what hardships a family is facing, they should have access to family-fun activities, and experience joy, inclusion, and community. The organization has distributed more than two million tickets to a variety of events (such as sports games, concerts, The Calgary Stampede, festivals and local attractions) over the last 22 years. They help enrich the lives of children and their families by giving them experiences to create memories together. The best ways to get involved and help out the initiatives are to donate tickets to your favorite experiences around the city or become a KUF Krew volunteer. For more information on donations or volunteering, email calgary@kidsupfront.com.

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

NEST DESIGNS HOLIDAY CAPSULE COLLECTION

Embark on a whimsical journey with us this holiday season and get swept away by its magic. These adorable two-piece sleepwear sets for all ages come in exclusive Eric Carle Holiday Capsule prints (Candy Cane Lane and Twinkle Trees) perfect for all of your special holiday moments and cozy all winter long.

Nest Designs creates premium, eco-friendly products with a clean simple style. Their creations are meant to make memories - from playtime to bedtime and all the feedings in between.

To view the whole collection or order a matching twopiece set of your own, visit nestdesigns.com.

For your chance to win a $125 gift card to purchase your own special holiday sleep set, find our contests on our homepage at calgaryschild.com (contest code: Nest Holiday) Contest closes December 7, 2022

PLAYMOBIL 1.2.3 AQUA BATHTIME FUN ADVENT CALENDAR

The PLAYMOBIL 1.2.3 Aqua Bathtime Fun Advent Calendar offers the best Christmas preparation and great splashing fun for the very youngest!

Colorful PLAYMOBIL 1.2.3 figures and animals are hidden behind 24 little doors for an exciting pre-Christmas season. The specially designed PLAYMOBIL 1.2.3 AQUA products provide maximum fun in the bathtub. With the help of the suction cup, the collection tray is simply attached to the edge of the bathtub or to the tile.

The colorful PLAYMOBIL 1.2.3 AQUA play world promotes fine motor skills, creativity and cognitive understanding of relationships. The Advent calendar contains four PLAYMOBIL 1.2.3 figures, a landing net, a shark, an octopus, a turtle, four fish, two penguins and many other loving extras.

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

For your chance to win this advent calendar, enter at calgaryschild.com (contest code: AQUA) Contest closes November 28, 2022

PLAYMOBIL WILTOPIA DIY ADVENT CALENDAR

Join the researcher in the PLAYMOBIL Wiltopia DIY Advent Calendar on an exciting animal trip around the globe. Each day, one of 23 animals from different parts of the world and their fascinating habitat can be discovered and explored.

Each box in the DIY Advent Calendar is filled with a toy. If the box is turned over after opening, an amazing animal panorama with the habitats of the included animals is created over the Advent period! For even more creative design ideas, a sticker sheet with letters and

animal images is included, which can be used to decorate the individual boxes as desired.

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

For your chance to win this advent calendar, enter at calgaryschild.com (contest code: WILTOPIA) Contest closes November 28, 2022

PLAYMOBIL NHL® ARENA

Playmobil's NHL® playsets and figures allow young hockey fans to transform their playrooms into the ultimate hockey arena, remaining true to PLAYMOBIL’s mission to inspire children everywhere to tap into their creativity and explore the depths of their imaginations. As kids morph into hockey stars, the NHL® figures enable them to bring the game to life with interactive functions including skater shooting and puck-stopping goalie action.

The NHL® Arena includes 2 ice hockey players, 2 ice hockey goalkeepers, 1 ice hockey arena, 2 goals, 4 pucks, 2 launchers, 4 ice hockey sticks, 1 sticker sheet with numbers, and 3 sticker sheets with NHL™ team logos.

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

For your chance to win this awesome NHL® play set, enter at calgaryschild.com (contest code: NHL®) Contest closes December 7, 2022

RIDICULOUSLY DELICIOUS COOKIES FROM CHUNK’D

Chunk’d has the best gourmet cookies in Calgary – period. Fully loaded with flavor and creativity, they deliver anywhere in Calgary or visit their flagship store in Kensington (#101 - 330 10 Street NW) and enjoy a sweet treat on the go. Enjoy one of their super decadent rotating weekly flavors or take home a Pienormous cookie to share with family and friends!

Check out their full roster of delicious cookies at chunkd.ca or follow them on Instagram @chunkd!

For your chance to win six ultra-delicious Chunk’d cookies for your family to enjoy, enter at calgaryschild. com (contest code: Chunk’d) Contest closes December 14, 2022

30 MINUTE PHOTO SESSION FROM PROJECT PHOTO SESSIONS

PROJECT Photo Sessions is a children’s portrait studio offering modern black and white photos – one child per session. Children are perpetually themselves. They live from the inside out, as self-assured, loving, sweet, hilarious little humans. At PROJECT, we

don’t just capture the child in front of us, we stop to discover who they really are.

Within two weeks of your 30 minute photo session you'll receive an online gallery to select your top two photos of each child. Within two weeks of selecting your photos, you'll receive a link to download two retouched, high resolution, black and white digital files of each child with full printing permissions. Visit projectphotosessions. com to book your session today!

For your chance to win a 30-minute photo session for your child, enter at calgaryschild.com (contest code: PROJECT) Contest closes December 14, 2022

TOP 150 UNUSUAL THINGS TO SEE IN ALBERTA BY DEBBIE OLSEN

Have you ever wanted to dine in a water tower, explore the site of a former beaver ranch or take a scenic potty break in a mountain-top outhouse? Top 150 Unusual Things to See in Alberta is the ultimate guide for travelers looking for the quirky, unique and inspiring side of Alberta. Travel writer and author Debbie Olsen, a proud Albertan who's visited nearly every corner of the province, has assembled a list of over 150 unusual places, things to see and events that make Alberta one-of-a-kind – from its dozens of roadside attractions and surprising landforms to its fascinating historical sites and off-beat museums.

Organized into four regions – South of Calgary, Edmonton to Calgary, the Alberta Rockies and North of Edmonton – this guidebook takes you on a journey across the province, with lively text that sheds light on each location's interesting history, as well as maps, contact information, fact boxes and color photographs that bring the spots to life.

For your chance to win a copy of Top 150 Unusual Things to See in Alberta, enter at calgaryschild.com (contest code: UNUSUAL) Contest closes December 14, 2022

YOU ARE HUMAN AND YOU NEED CAKE

BY JULIE VAN ROSENDAAL

A series of hateful social media messages transformed into uplifting blackout poetry inspired this collection of comforting cakes – the third in a series of small format, single subject cookbooks by bestselling cookbook author, food journalist and CBC Radio personality Julie Van Rosendaal.

This cozy cakebook is available exclusively to independent booksellers across Canada and on Julie’s website, dinnerwithjulie.com.

For your chance to win a copy of You Are Human and You Need Cake, enter at calgaryschild.com (contest code: JULIE) Contest closes December 14, 2022

Guide to the Holidays

balancing family holiday expectations

By Gwen Randall-Young

One of the greatest sources of stress over holidays, according to my clients, is trying to keep extended family members happy. No matter the holiday, it falls on one specific day. Now that your children have their own children and two (or, more and more commonly, three or four) sets of in-laws, planning visits can be a real frustration.

If everyone wanted you to be with them on Christmas Day, that would often be impossible. Many parents want Christmas morning at home with their children. If grandparents become hurt or impose guilt trips if things don’t go their way, that adds a whole other level of distress.

It’s common for grandparents to want to recreate the same kind of Christmas they had when their adult children lived at home. Sometimes they forget what it is like for their children, who have additional obligations now.

I have always believed that getting family together is more important than the day on which it happens. Christmas get-togethers can happen on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or Boxing Day.

Christmas is often a time when grown children get a little time off work and so choose to travel. Sometimes, they have family obligations in another province or country. My grandchildren live away from us. Sometimes we have Christmas with one family early in December; one year, another one of my children came with their family well into January. Another daughter lives here. Some years I have three Christmases!

If we release our attachment to (and expectation that) our children should be obliged to do what we want them to, the season will be much happier. They do not need the stress of feeling that someone will be hurt or mad if they cannot meet the wishes of their parents.

The wisest approach, in my opinion, is to let our adult children let us know when they want to celebrate with us and to accept that without question. Yes, it can hurt if they always seem to put their in-laws first. They have their reasons for planning the way they do, and we need to accept that. To get upset or pout about this is hard on you and hard on them. Making them feel guilty is a good way to ruin Christmas.

Christmas can be, for some, a terrible time. Old family issues arise and there can be conflict. If one of the parents is an alcoholic, for example, adult children may not want to

be around that. They may not want their children exposed to it. If we do not have a good relationship with a child, they may not be eager to get together. The idea that we should just drop everything and have a happy celebration is not always easy to do. Someone can say or do something – or many things – that are triggers for another.

If you’re worried about hurting someone’s feelings due to your choices, you must learn to manage that too. We are not responsible for everyone’s feelings. Explain that you must consider the needs of many other people in dividing your time, so everyone is not going to get their first choice.

The biggest expectation we need to manage is the idea that Christmas must be perfect. All of the advertising and Christmas specials show happy families having a wonderful time. These create unrealistic ideas, setting standards that are impossibly high.

When reality falls short, we can end up feeling sad and disappointed. The same is true when we have expectations about Christmas gifts – if we measure a person’s level of caring with the value of the gift, we set

ourselves up for pain. If you know your partner or children are not into gift giving with the same level of care that you show, then put some gifts under the tree for yourself! I once had a partner like that. Once I realized I would likely get another kitchen gadget for Christmas, I began selecting gifts for myself as I did Christmas shopping. Perhaps it was a good book, an item of clothing, and/or a wonderful hand cream. I always felt happy with my gifts! (And, of course, they all came from Santa).

If you know you will be alone on a day you hoped to be with family, you have a choice. You can dread that day and then feel sad and disappointed or lonely all day, or you can plan a special day for yourself. You might dig into a good book, go for a walk in the sunshine, make arrangements with friends or plan your favorite meal.

Remember, it’s just one day. If you don’t build it up with expectations, you won’t be let down.

of

Gwen is an author and award-winning psychologist. To obtain books, CDs or MP3s, visit gwen.ca. Follow GwenRandallYoung on Facebook for inspiration.

Grandparents, is it time to let things change?

beautiful family-friendly snowshoe

trails near Calgary

Are you ready to take up the fastest growing winter sport?

By Karen Ung; Photo courtsey of Karen Ung

Snowshoeing is an awesome winter activity for families, especially when you live in a place where it snows for half the year. Imagine floating on snow past marshmallow trees, to an alpine lake surrounded by snow capped peaks. Squirrels chitter in the trees and the kids laugh as snow drops from low branches (perhaps aided by a well-aimed snowball).

With snowshoes attached to your boots, it doesn’t matter how deep the snow is, and in fact, it’s much more fun on a powder day! Expect gorgeous scenery, snowy fun, and a good workout. Snowshoeing on flat terrain burns about 400 calories per hour.

If you plan on taking up the fastest-growing winter sport, rest assured that it’s easy to learn. If you can walk, you can snowshoe! It’s also relatively affordable. Once you have the gear, you just need to find a suitable trail without avalanche danger (no lift tickets required)!

Here are a few family-friendly snowshoe trails near Calgary:

Hogarth Lakes Loop offers beautiful mountain views from Mud Lakes and Hogarth Lakes. Stay on the trail to stay out of avalanche terrain; and if doing the loop clockwise, enjoy a picnic at the third lake (the larger of the Hogarth Lakes). 3.9km loop, 30m elevation gain.

Elkwood Loop takes you through Elkwood Campground to Marl Lake. Learn about the landscape on the interpretive trail, then bask in the sunshine at the lake and watch out for cheeky gray jays looking for food (people have been feeding them, but you shouldn’t!). 3.4km loop, 30m elevation gain.

Fairview Lookout Trail takes you through the forest to a scenic viewpoint overlooking Lake Louise. While you’re in the area, ice skate on the lake (usually ready by Christmas, but check first!), hike the Lakeshore Trail to the ice falls at the back of the lake (keep your distancelarge chunks of ice can fall off without warning), or get a pastry and coffee at Laggan’s Mountain Bakery and Delicatessen. 2km round trip, 100m elevation gain.

Ribbon Creek is a fun snowshoe trail with lots of footbridges and peekaboo views of the mountains. Yield to cross country skiers and stay off the cross country ski tracks on the shared use section of the trail at the junction about 1.6km in, and turn back at the avalanche danger sign at 3.7km. Nearby Kananaskis Village has several delicious dining options. 3.7km one way, 60m elevation gain.

Troll Falls, Marmot Falls, and Upper Falls are gorgeous year-round, but they’re especially magical when frozen

– and you can even go behind Marmot Falls! While the popular trail is usually packed down enough to hike in boots, snowshoes will provide traction if it’s icy. 1.7km to Troll Falls 1km to Upper Falls, 150m elevation gain.

Johnson Lake is a pretty mountain lake near Banff that boasts beautiful views of Cascade Mountain and Mount Rundle. Starting from the picnic area, make your way around the lake. After crossing the dam, take the inner trail for the quickest way back (option: visit the hermit cabin! Google “Hermit of Inglismaldie” for directions), or take the outer trail to see some hoodoos. 2.8km loop/3.5km outer loop, minimal elevation change.

More snowshoe trails: After a big dump of snow, try Snowy Owl Trail at West Bragg Creek (2.7km loop with several options to go further), or Widow Maker Trail (2.4km to 5km round trip, 120m elevation gain) near Barrier Lake. If you’re lucky, there will be river surfers or kayakers to watch at the end of Widow Maker Trail. Some hardy souls brave the chilly waters year round!

Hiking with bigger kids? Try Rawson Lake (7.8km round trip, 320m elevation gain) or Chester Lake (9.2km round trip, 275m elevation gain). Both are classic Kananaskis snowshoe trails with stunning scenery at the lakes.

WHAT TO BRING & WEAR

For a successful snowshoe outing with kids, you should bring the following:

• Lots of snacks

Hot cocoa

• Extra mitts and socks

• Hand and foot warmers

• Neck gaiter

• Midlayer (hoody or long-sleeved thermal top)

• Foam seat/foam sleeping mat (the latter makes a warm and dry seat for two to three people)

• Headlamp and emergency gear

• Snowshoes and poles

Wear technical base layers made of synthetic material or merino wool, snow pants, an insulated jacket, toque, and mittens.

Have fun and stay safe!

Karen is a mother and a lover of maps, mountains, and mochas. With her geography degree and experience leading hikes and backpacking trips in the Rockies, she is full of ideas on where to go and what to do. The mission of her blog, playoutsideguide.com, is to provide everything families need to know to get outside and have fun. Follow on Instagram @playoutsidegal.

christmas cookie exchanges

Share some sweet treats this holiday season

Getting friends together over the holidays can be a struggle! Hosting a party that’s good for adults and kids, figuring out if you’re doing presents or not, even scheduling something that everyone can attend can be a real challenge as the years go by.

Why not bring back the cookie exchange? It’s lowstress, a great opportunity to teach your kids how to bake, and can be organized either as a quick drop-off event or a fun gathering opportunity – either way, it’s a simple way to share the love with friends and family in a low-stress, low-commitment (but highly delicious) way.

Instead of sweating through baking five or six separate cookie recipes to have available for Christmas gatherings, you only have to pick your favorite. Everybody else makes their favorite recipe, too, and then you trade cookies. You’ll end up with a variety of treats to enjoy or share without nearly as much stress, and everybody participating gets the gift of cookies from one another this year.

Planning and coordinating a good cookie exchange can be a stumbling point! Before you begin, make sure you do the math, pick your participants and recipes wisely, and account for allergies and food preferences.

THE MATH

A good rule of thumb for cookie or baking exchanges is that every participant should provide six cookies per participant (including themselves). If you have ten participants, for example, every guest should bring five dozen cookies – everyone goes home with ten different types of cookies and five dozen in total. That’s plenty to enjoy and share!

You’ll need to pick a recipe that scales well. Most Christmas cookie recipes yield two to three dozen cookies, so depending on how many participants you have, you’ll probably need to double or even triple your recipe. This is a great opportunity to teach your kids some kitchen math and include them in the preparation! Work together to multiply each ingredient and practice important math skills like adding fractions. (Not sure you’ve got the math right? Before you break out the cooking tools, you can always double check by using a website or app to help).

THE PLAN

If you’d like to make your cookie exchange into a holiday party, ask each participant to bake a few extra so there’s cookies for everyone to enjoy and taste together. Don’t forget to provide a copy of your recipe (or the ingredient list at least if the recipe is a family secret!)

Depending on how many friends and family members you have locally and the time and space you have available for your exchange, you’ll want to recruit between five and 15 participants. Too few participants means you won’t have many cookies to enjoy, but too many can lead to an overwhelming number of cookies to bake (and eat)! I feel the ideal exchange party has around eight to ten participants (that’s four to five dozen cookies), but everyone is different.

By Trista Arney

“This is a great opportunity to teach your kids some kitchen math and include them in the preparation!”

Christmas

Calgary’s best winter walks

By Lori Beattie

Want to see waterfalls, wetlands, wildlife, and wild Christmas trees; musical gardens, garage art, murals, Christmas lights, chickadees that land on your hand, and cafes where hot chocolate and tasty treats await? Let’s walk!

n Colorful murals & Christmas lights – Sunnyside, McHugh Bluffs in Crescent Heights, and Prince’s Island Park

Named after Felix McHugh, who homesteaded this property and was a prominent early entrepreneur, the bluff hosts views extending downtown west to the mountains. On a winter evening, the sights are dramatic and impressive and in December the Christmas Lights displays are spectacular. With every step up the hillside, the downtown skyscrapers rise into view, bright, compact, and towering. Walk the length of Crescent Road for the light shows and loop north into the neighborhood to enjoy a festive feel or drop down into Sunnyside where daytime walking becomes a treasure hunt for murals and folk art. Watch for gargoyles, a bike on a roof, little libraries and more than 20 colorful garage door murals. This outdoor art gallery is the perfect treasure hunt walk before you pick a Kensington Road or 10 Street cafe for a hot chocolate pit stop or cross into Prince’s Island Park for a playground picnic spot.

Starting point: Crescent Road, NW. Park anywhere in Crescent Heights or the Sunnyside LRT.

Cool spots: Christmas Lights displays along Crescent Road and the garage art and murals in Sunnyside back alleys.

Tasty Pit Stop: Kensington Road has many cafes where a hot drink and treat awaits.

n Cheery chickadees, wild Christmas trees and musical gardens – Jackrabbit Trail and the Glenmore Reservoir

This single-track wilderness gem is hidden below the very popular paved Glenmore pathway. From South Glenmore Park playground, walk east along the paved Glenmore pathway. The kids will want to make some music at the Quinterra Legacy Garden, an interactive musical park, before dropping down to the treed single track Jackrabbit Trail. Chickadees are your constant companions on this wilderness trail that dips and climbs through the forest just below the popular paved Glenmore Pathway. All along the pathway, you’ll enjoy intermittent views of the Glenmore Reservoir. Bring a decoration for the wild Christmas tree that takes center stage in December. If you brought birdseed, then the fun begins if you stand still and wait for the chickadees to land on your hands. Continue all the way to the paved pathway at the end of the trail for a 7km round trip walk, or backtrack along the single-track trails and then drop down to the trail that skirts the reservoir to get the big water views.

Starting point: South Glenmore Park, 24 Street and 90 Avenue, SW

Cool spots: The Quinterra Musical Garden, chickadees along the Jackrabbit trail, decorating the wild Christmas tree.

Tasty Pit Stop: Stop at Good Earth Cafe at Glenmore Landing for snacks and drinks! Grab a dozen of the best

bagels in Calgary at Montreal Bagels (cash only) on Heritage Drive and Elbow Drive.

n Glacial erratics, Siksikaitsitapi Medicine Wheel, coulees & wildlife – Nose Hill Park

Pack a picnic and head to Nose Hill Park for a big nature outing that is all running and climbing and exploring. Soak up the views of downtown and Calgary’s northeast as you climb to the top of the plateau. Once on top, take a look around and you will see that Broadcast Hill (the hill where Canada Olympic Park is built) is also flat and at the same elevation as Nose Hill. Hills south of the city near Priddis are the same. These plateaus are the remnants of a 60-millionyear-old, swampy, forested landscape into which the Bow and Elbow rivers, and the glaciers that followed their valleys, have incised by 175m. That is something to think about while you catch your breath!

Make your way to the Siksikaitsitapi Medicine Wheel in the southeast end of the park. Centuries ago, First Nations people used Nose Hill as a lookout spot to keep watch over the rolling land below. The wheel was built as part of a conference of the Blackfoot Confederacy and recognizes the area as traditional Blackfoot territory. In 2022, a new interpretive sign was placed near the Medicine Wheel so park users can learn more about the history of the site and the significance of the wheel. Walk further north and you’ll find a massive boulder that makes for great climbing near the 64 Avenue parking lot. When the glaciers carved their way across Nose Hill, they left behind many large boulders known as glacial erratics, which bear no compositional resemblance to local rocks.

One hundred years ago, buffalo roamed Nose Hill. In the spring, the buffalo would rub against these stones as they began to molt, trying to remove irritating hairs. You can see the evidence in the form of deep, smooth depressions and shiny spots that remain on the stones today.

Continue along single-track trails that dip into coulees and watch for the resident deer that call the park home. Pull up a bench or settle into an earthy spot and enjoy some snacks on Calgary’s highest point.

Navigating Nose Hill is challenging. If you are new to the hill, pay attention to the landmarks and do not attempt to walk the hill in poor visibility (snowstorms, fog, or darkness). The power lines at the far north end of the hill extend from the Berkley Gate parking lot to the Edgemont parking lot. If you can see the airport, you are on the 14 Street side of the hill. There is an antenna visible on the hill, which is close to the Calgary Winter Club parking lot, off 14 Street.

Starting points: Nose Hill parking lots: 14 Street and John Laurie Boulevard, behind the Winter Club or any of the southern parking lots along 14 Street up to 64 Avenue.

Cool spots: Siksikaitsitapi Medicine Wheel and a glacial erratic.

Lori is the author of the best-selling guidebooks Calgary’s Best Walks and Calgary’s Best Bike Rides. She is the owner of Fit Frog and the CTV Morning Live segment host. She leads walks, hikes, and snowshoe days with her company Fit Frog and presents to groups on the pleasures of exploring Calgary on foot and by bike. 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.

Our Guide to the Holidays

FAMILY FUN

November 26, 9am to 3:30pm; Little Modern Market Find a modern and local pop-up market this holiday season, with free face paint and glitter tattoos for the kids. There is free entry with a donation to the Calgary Food Bank (or $5 entry without donation), a free Market Tote for the first 100 shoppers, and ticketed workshops. Find everything from home decor to clothing to treats. Learn more at littlemodernmarket.com.

November 26, 9:30am to 3:30pm. Marlborough Christmas Market The Marlborough Community Association invites you to the annual Christmas Market which features 65 tables of handcrafted items showcased by local artists and crafters. Learn more at calgarymarlborough.com.

November 26, 10am to 2pm; Rocky Ridge Ranch HOA Holiday Market If you are looking for unique gifts to give away during the holiday season, be sure to check out the Rocky Ridge Ranch Homeowner’s Association’s Holiday Market. They will have a variety of local vendors selling a wide array of handmade treasures like crafts, baked goods, greeting cards, stained glass sun catchers, knit and crochet items, jewelry, and more. Learn more at rrrha.ca.

November 26 to 27, 10am to 3pm; Lake Bonavista Christmas Craft Fair The Christmas Craft Fair at the community association is the perfect opportunity to discover wonderful gift-giving ideas. You’ll find unique handcrafted items and home-based businesses. Learn more at lakebonavistacommunity.com.

November 26 to December 18; Granary Road’s Christmas Market Granary Road’s Christmas Market is an enchanting celebration of the holidays that starts with the stunning Market with 40-foot vaulted ceilings, exposed trusses and lighting reminiscent of days gone by. Learn more at granaryroad.com.

December 3, 10am to 4pm; Haysboro Winter Market Shop the Haysboro Winter Market for home businesses and artisan vendors. With free entry and parking, you can make your Christmas shopping a little easier at Haysboro Community Hall. Learn more at haysboro.org.

December 3, 10am to 3pm; Hidden Valley Community Association Craft Fair Bake Sale Check out this Craft Fair and Volunteer Bake Sale Fundraiser in Hidden Valley at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church. Learn more at hiddenhut.org.

December 3, 10am to 4pm; Merry and Bright Christmas Market Christian Life Assembly Church is hosting its Christmas market for the community. This market has 50 local vendors and free family activities to enjoy, like face painting, Santa photos with a printable photo booth, and s’mores.

December 3, 10am to 3pm; North Glenmore Park Community Association Holiday Craft Market Check

out this holiday craft market featuring 50 local vendors selling handmade items. There is free parking and complimentary coffee. Learn more at ngpca.ca.

December 3, 10am to 3pm; Ranchlands Community Association Christmas Market The RCA is presenting the Christmas Market, so make sure to shop local this holiday season. This event is limited to vendors selling handmade items only so there will be tons of unique and one-of-akind items, perfect for that “hard to shop for” person on your gift list. Learn more at ranchlandscommunity.com.

December 3, 10am to 4pm; SCA Community Association Christmas Craft Fair There will be 50 vendors offering unique, handmade gifts and much more. Learn more at scacalgary.ca.

December 3, 10am to 2pm; Tuscany Resident’s Association Holiday Extravaganza Over 40 craft and baker vendors under one roof with free admission to the public. Come and find some unique holiday gifts and yummy baking at Tuscany Club. Learn more at tuscanyconnect.com.

December 3, 11am to 4pm; New Horizon Christmas Craft Market New Horizon Mall in partnership with Kay’s Hairstyling & Consulting are excited to be hosting the Annual Christmas Craft Fair. With over 50 vendors on site, entertainment, door prizes and more you will want to save the date to get a head start on your holiday shopping. Learn more at newhorizonmall.com.

December 3 to 4, 10am to 4pm; AZURIDGE Magic + Merry Christmas Market AZURIDGE is excited to announce its annual Christmas Market. With a theme of Magic and Merry, this event will bring the joy of Christmas back to our city. There will be something for everyone at this festive market, including Santa and his reindeer, sleigh rides, Kristen Scott and the Harmonic Gems, and plenty of shopping opportunities. Learn more at azuridgehotel.com.

December 4, 11am to 4pm; Whole Earth Market The Whole Earth Market is a monthly market that operates within the historic Shawnessy Barn in the community of Shawnessy in southwest Calgary. The December Market features two floors of vendors selling unique, hand-crafted items. They support local artisans, crafters, makers, and creators. Learn more at wholeearthmarket.ca.

December 4, 10am to 4pm; Wildflower Art Salon & Sale At the Wildflower Art Salon & Sale you will be immersed with art in every direction. Experience a oneof-a-kind shopping experience. At the Salon you will find paintings, fibre art, hand pulled prints, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, drawing, glass work and more. Learn more at wildflowersalon.ca.

Sunday, Friday, Saturday, Until December 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.

December 9 to 11, 16 to 18; Market Collective’s Holiday Series Enjoy live music, interactive workshops, galleries, more than 150 local vendors and special surprises. Learn more at marketcollective.ca.

December 10, 10am to 4pm; North Haven Christmas Makers Market Shop until you drop for handcrafted items at this holiday market. Learn more at northhavenyyc.ca.

December 10 to 11, 10am to 5pm; Authentically Indigenous Holiday Craft Market Come to visit this annual holiday craft show with a unique twist at the Kerby Centre. The Authentically Indigenous Craft Show ‘Holiday Edition’ features unique Indigenous artist vendors from the Calgary and Treaty 7 area of Southern Alberta. Here you’ll find handmade crafts, art, jewelry, food, and more. Tickets are $5 for one day and kids 12 and under are free. Learn more at authenticallyindig.com.

December 10 to 11, 10am to 4pm; Cochrane Made Christmas Farmers’ Market Two days on two floors makes for a great shopping experience at Spray Lakes Saw Mills Family Sports Centre. You will find many of your favorite vendors from the summer market plus many more seasonal artisans selected to make this a “must attend” event. Learn more at cochranefarmersmarket.ca.

December 11, 9:30am to 4pm; Peak to Prairie Holiday Market The Peak to Prairie Holiday Market is back at Winsport, with free parking, large aisles for strollers, and a variety of vendors. Get unique gifts for the special people on your list from the Calgary small business community. Tickets are usually $8 and kids 12 and under are free. Learn more at peaktoprairiemarket.com.

December 16 to 17; The Pop-Up Holiday Market in Cochrane Support local this holiday season by buying unique handmade gifts at Frank Wills Memorial Hall.

Until December 21, 10am to 4pm; Christmas in the Country The Leighton Art Centre is featuring fine crafts and artwork by local artists in the galleries of the historic Leighton home. This annual community-favorite sale comes at the perfect time for getting a head start on purchasing seasonal gifts and getting into the Christmas spirit with beautiful decorations, gorgeous art, and the home’s historic ambiance. Learn more at leightoncentre.org.

HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES

November 26 to December 24; Stage West for Kids Presents The Elves and the Shoemaker Twinkle and Cookie the elves want desperately to earn their top elf shoes. A family friendly musical adventure with a modern twist, this festival tale reminds us all that the true magic of Christmas is found through acts of kindness and the spirit of giving. Learn more at stagewestcalgary.com.

December 2 to 3; Calgary Philharmonic Presents Rune’s Christmas Join Music Director Rune Bergmann,

the Calgary Philharmonic Chorus, and Cantaré Children’s Choir for a joyous concert of curated holiday music. From beloved classic carols to contemporary festive hits, there’s something for everyone in this heartwarming Christmas musical buffet. Learn more at calgaryphil.com.

December 5 to 16, 10am; Storybook Theatre’s Candy Cane Kids The Musical  Cookie, Stripe and Pep are the Quality Control Inspectors for McJingles Incorporated. Their job? To monitor, measure and analyze Christmas spirit worldwide. This year, however, the cheery trio discover Canadian spirit is dangerously low, and pull out all the stops to raise it. Using their social media platform Jinglegram, they decide to broadcast live. They sing, dance, bake and cheer-on Canada in this 75-minute-long extravaganza. Learn more at storybooktheatre.org.

December 11, 6pm; ATCO Presents ‘Twas the Night Before Curtain ‘Twas the night before curtain and here at the hall, the Stage Manager is stressing, eight hours ‘til call. The Lead and Director just can’t get along, the show is unfinished, still missing a song! The crew and ensemble are ready to quit; the Host is dramatic and pitching a fit. But there’s love in the air and it’s sometimes the case, we might find romance in an unlikely place. Learn more at youthsingers.org.

December 16 to 24; Alberta Ballet Presents The Nutcracker It’s Christmas Eve and Klara has received a magical gift from her eccentric Uncle Drosselmeyer: a handsome nutcracker doll. Little does she know as she falls asleep that her new toy is about to spark her imagination and take her on a dreamy adventure to the Land of Sweets. Learn more at albertaballet.com.

Until December 31; Storybook Theatre's Elf The Musical A title known the world over, Elf The Musical is a must-produce holiday musical that can easily become an annual tradition for any theatre. 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.

Until January 15; 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.

NEW YEAR’S EVE FAMILY FUN

December 31; Zoo Year’s Eve You'll be able to enjoy all the fun of ZOOLIGHTS with extra special entertainment. It's a festive way to help you and your loved one’s ring in the new year in a safe (and zoonique way!) while supporting the zoo’s wildlife conservation initiatives. There is a family friendly version that ends at 9pm and a late-night adults only event. Learn more at calgaryzoo.com.

December 31; Livestream Fireworks Show Ring in the New Year with a livestream fireworks show atop the Calgary Tower set to a musical soundtrack of Canadian artists curated by CJSW 90.0 FM. Be sure to tune in live from calgary.ca/NYE at 11:55pm or listen to the broadcast on CJSW 90.9 FM.

NEW YEAR FAMILY FUN

Until January 14; Jubilations Theatre Presents The Office: A Pop Rock Parody Who would have ever guessed that the TV world would be so enthralled and entertained with the goings on at small paper company office. A simple ordinary office with average people like Jim and Pam with their little flirtations… and Michael with his terrible staff meetings… and Dwight with his, ah… crossbow? Okay so maybe not ordinary! Learn more at jubilations.ca.

January 15, 3pm to 4:30pm; The Calgary Philharmonic Presents Charlotte and the Music Maker Charlotte plays the trumpet on a cardboard tube, the xylophone with two knitting needles, and the drums on anything that bangs. Families will enjoy this magical journey with Platypus Theatre exploring the sounds and colors of the instruments and the exciting possibilities that music has to offer. Come early for the Instrument Discovery Zoo at 2pm. Learn more at calgaryphil.com.

Until February 5; Stage West Presents One Hit Wonders It is said that everyone has a chance for 15 minutes of fame, and so it is with One Hit Wonders. For every great band or artist, there are about 20 more groups or artists who have had one big break – one great song to their credit. Learn more at stagewestcalgary.com.

PARTY VENUES & ENTERTAINMENT

CALGARY REPTILE PARTIES

Phone: 403-457-2202

Email: reptile.party@hotmail.com

Website: calgaryreptileparties.com

Add fun and education to your birthday party event! Kids meet and interact with iguanas, monitor lizards,

dragons, boa constrictors, pythons, skinks, salamanders, and much more!

RICHARD RONDEAU MAGICIAN

Phone: 403-254-8718 Website: rrmagician.com

Make your child’s birthday party extra special. Richard can present a 30- to 45-minute show with comedy, audience participation, and jaw-dropping magic.

MAD SCIENCE OF SOUTHERN ALBERTA

Phone: 403-263-4140 Email: madscsab@telusplanet.net Website: calgary.madscience.org

Our parties entertain children aged four to 12 with high energy, interactive shows full of “edu-tainment” which come to you and have everything you need to make your child's party a total success.

REAL CANADIAN SUPERSTORE

Various Locations

Website: realcanadiansuperstore.ca

At the Real Canadian Superstore, you can pick up the cake, the cake platter, the party platter, the party decorations, the party favors and more!

SPRAY LAKE SAWMILLS FAMILY SPORTS

CENTRE (SLSFSC)

800 Griffin Road E, Cochrane, AB

Phone: 403-932-1635 Website: slsfamilysportscentre.com

Fabulous birthday party packages and fitness and recreation programs are offered daily. All ages welcome!

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.

GIFT IDEAS & SERVICES

ARTS COMMONS PERFORMANCE TICKETS

205 8 Avenue SE

Phone: Call Centre/Box Office 403-294-9494

Email: boxoffice@artscommons.ca

Give the gift of a live experience! As the largest performing arts centre in Western Canada, we offer endless ways to experience the transformative power of the arts.

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.

THE ART OF PORTRAITURE BY SVP PHOTOGRAPHY

Phone: 403-281-8429 Email: shelley@svpphotography.com Website: theartofachild.com

Your children grow up so fast. Don’t say, “I wish I would have!” We create Wall Art and Storybooks that allow you to savor this moment in time for generations. We offer different themes throughout the year. Perfect gifts for Christmas, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and birthdays. Gift certificates available.

BEANERS FUN CUTS FOR KIDS

Website: beanersfuncuts.com

At Beaners Fun Cuts For Kids, our experienced stylists give the whole family great hair in a fun-filled atmosphere. Maybe it’s the themed chairs, movie screens, or the video games, but we love kids, and they love us. We also offer clipper art, ear piercing, up-dos, braiding, baby’s first haircut, and professional hair care products. Book online. Experience our haircuts!

CALAWAY PARK

Phone: 403-240-3822

Email: info@calawaypark.com Website: calawaypark.com

Give the gift of family fun this holiday season! Calaway Park invites your family to enjoy endless fun at Western Canada’s Largest Outdoor Family Amusement Park!

CALGARY PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Phone: 403-571-0849

Email: info@calgaryphil.com Website: calgaryphil.com

We have something for the whole family – from blockbuster movies to favorite classics and concerts just for kids.

CHUNK'D BAKERY

#101 - 330 10 ST NW

Phone: 403-764-7558 Website: chunkd.ca

The best gourmet cookies in Calgary, fully loaded with flavor and creativity! We deliver everywhere in Calgary. Enjoy one of our super decadent rotating weekly flavors or take home a Pienormous cookie to share with family and friends!

CITY OF CALGARY REC PASS

Website: calgary.ca/dropin Don’t let the family get bored this winter. Drop in to one of our recreation facilities and enjoy affordable family fun!

HERITAGE PARK HISTORICAL VILLAGE

Phone: 403-268-8500

Email: info@heritagepark.ca Website: heritagepark.ca

Create lasting memories with a Heritage Park Annual Pass! Valid all year long, a Family Annual Pass provides endless entertainment for your family of up to six at one low price.

JUBILATIONS JUNIOR

Phone: 587-603-5635

Email: infocalgary@jubilations.ca Website: jubilations.ca/calgary-junior

An amazing interactive live theatre experience with a two-act musical comedy, and a family-friendly threecourse meal.

MNP COMMUNITY & SPORT CENTRE (FORMERLY REPSOL SPORTS CENTRE)

Phone: 403-233-8393 Email: info@mnpcentre.com Website: mnpcentre.com

Make this an active and unforgettable year at MNP Community & Sport Centre. There is no shortage of fun and sport discovery on land and in the water for the whole family.

PAISLEY & PAIGE

Phone: 1-800-858-9837 Email: info@paisleyandpaige.ca Website: paisleyandpaige.ca

What’s the secret to a healthy complexion and extending the life of your beauty products? It’s our washable beauty bag! Organizing and keeping your lashes, palettes, makeup, and skincare free of residue and beauty bag grime has never been so easy or so beautiful! Holding up to 26 beauty products, it’s easily packable in a diaper bag, carry on, gym tote or backpack. Earth friendly and reusable; no more throwaway plastic makeup cases.

SPRAY LAKE SAWMILLS FAMILY SPORTS CENTRE

800 Griffin Road E, Cochrane

Phone: 403-932-1635 Website: slsfamilysportscentre.com

With 350,000 square feet of space and over 15,000 weekly users, the Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre (SLSFSC) is a tremendous facility for all members of the community and surrounding area.

TRICO CENTRE FOR FAMILY WELLNESS

11150 Bonaventure Drive SE

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. Huge, clean fitness centre, bright pool, hockey arenas. We offer activities for all ages!

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!

YMCA CALGARY

Locations throughout Calgary and two locations west of Calgary Website: ymcacalgary.org

From swim lessons, day or overnight camps to triathlon swim and boot camps, we have the programs and facilities to keep your whole family active. Join us and our active community at one of our health and wellness locations or outdoor camp locations.

WINTER FUN

BANFF NORQUAY

Website: banffnorquay.com

School’s in for winter! Bunny slopes to the big mountain! Ski and snowboard lessons, and programs for three to 16-year-olds including early season and holiday camps. Programs fill up fast, so book now!

CITY OF CALGARY RECREATION

Website: calgary.ca/dropin

Don’t let the family get bored this winter. Drop in to one of our recreation facilities and enjoy affordable family fun! Splash in a wave pool, take turns on a waterslide, swim some laps, or work out in a weight room. With many locations to choose from, there’s always something fun to do!

WINSPORT

Phone: 403-247-5452 Email: info@winsport.ca Website: winsport.ca

WinSport’s purpose is to inspire human potential through the spirit of sport and it’s something that is woven into all of our year-round, award-winning programming. Our passionate, expert instructors will help your child learn a sport, get better at it, and develop a lifelong love for being active. We have summer camps and programs in mountain biking, hockey, ringette, figure skating, and in specialized sport training. Come out and play with us!

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

all is merry and bright

Enjoy the holiday season with light displays in and around Calgary

TIS THE SEASON TO SPARKLE AND SHINE!

Many families find great joy in hopping in the car and checking out the twinkling Christmas lights in their neighborhoods. In Calgary, there are many other places you can go to see the magical splendor of holiday lights as well.

There are the classic choices like ZOOLIGHTS and Airdrie Festival of Lights, but there are also a few glowing hidden gems out there. Check out our list of some of the city’s most popular light displays this Christmas season.

Ongoing; Lighten UP Calgary The best residential Christmas light displays in and around Calgary. Take your kids out to see bright, sparkling lights, listen to holiday music, and donate to worthy causes while enjoying family time. Share your holiday cheer and show Lighten UP Calgary your lit-up home or check out the best places to go near you at lightenupcalgary.ca.

November 23 to December 31; In Search of Christmas Spirit in Banff Discover the wonder of Christmas in Banff National Park this holiday season. Bundle up for a walk through the Cascade of Time Garden, where you’ll witness a live Christmas story told by the animals of Banff National Park. Learn more at banfflakelouise.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! Learn more at glowyyc.ca.

December 1 to 31; 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.

December 1 to January 25, Christmas Lights in Legacy 2022 What was once a one-off way to dazzle local residents has now turned into an annual familyfriendly event that brings everyone from Calgary and area together. Drive through the Legacy community in southeast Calgary to enjoy a wondrous Christmas light display of more than one million lights.

December 2 to 31; The Rotary Festival of Trees A magical event happening throughout the month of December in Canmore for the whole family. Imagine an indoor forest of Christmas trees decorated and twinkling all in one place, all created and donated by local businesses. Learn more at rotaryfestivaloftrees.ca.

Fridays to Sundays December 10 to January 2, 5pm 10pm; Christmas Lights at Spruce Meadows Enjoy a huge display of giant lit Christmas trees from the comfort of your car. The grounds are beautifully decked out with over a quarter of a million sparkling holiday lights. It’s truly magical and completely free. Learn more at sprucemeadows.com.

Until January 8; ZOOLIGHTS The 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.

Until January 8; 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. CCM

ski & SNOWBOARD Lessons

Book now. Space is limited!

winsport.ca

15 ideas for indoor fun on cold winter days

Cheap and easy activities to get you through the frostiest weather

By Sarah Lyons

The cold winter days have settled in and some days, it’s just too cold to play outside. If your house is like mine, it doesn’t take long before the kids start climbing the walls. Here are some fun ways to use up that pent up energy while you are cooped up inside.

1 Movie marathon Let the kids enjoy a movie marathon in the comfort of the house. Make popcorn and enjoy relaxing and watching movies while snuggling up in the house. Or take the kids to the movie theater for an indoor treat.

2 Get crafty Paint, play with play dough, or make bead bracelets. Allow the kids to get creative by making their own scrapbook or finding items in your recycle bin they can make into sculptures.

3 Library trip Take the kids to the library to find some great books and movies to check out. When you get home, spend some time relaxing and reading in the comfort of your home.

4 Indoor play Check local listings for open gym, indoor playgrounds, or other fun indoor activities where the kids can run and play without being exposed to the cold temperatures.

5 Warm treats Who doesn’t love a warm treat when it’s freezing outside? Enjoy some hot cocoa or warm apple cider with the kids. If you have a fireplace, roast marshmallows indoors and tell campfire stories.

6 Put on a show Have the kids work together to put on a play, puppet show, or make up a dance routine and perform for you.

7 Play an outdoor game inside Try playing hide and seek, flashlight tag, or keep away inside.

8 Picnic Have an indoor picnic in the living room since it’s too cold to eat outside

9 Home science Try a science experiment at home. Make your own volcano, mix food coloring, or make a balloon rocket to teach the kids about science and stay cool indoors.

10 Bake Bake cookies, cakes, banana bread, or homemade bread. Having the oven on will warm up the house.

11 Build a fort Have the kids make a fort with pillows and blankets for some indoor fun.

12 Racetrack Use masking tape to make a racetrack on the floor and let the kids see who drives the fastest.

13 Take a bath If you have a big soaking tub, consider letting the kids put on swimsuits and enjoy the “indoor pool” for a while.

14 Have a dance party Turn the music up and have a dance party in the living room.

Sarah is a wife and mother of six who is always thinking up new and creative ways to keep her kids busy and having fun.

Your first step should be confirming your participant list and what type of cookie everybody will make this year. The whole point of a cookie exchange is to get a variety – you don’t want to end up with five dozen chocolate chip cookies. Most of the time everyone will bring their favorite recipe (with a little compromise to avoid duplication), but an alternate method to help those who don’t bake regularly is for the host to find enough tried-and-true cookie recipes for all participants and have everyone select one at random. Organizing who is baking what is made easier by having a spreadsheet, group chat or shared document that everyone can contribute to.

Make sure to have all participants share any special needs their household may have such as allergies, dietary preferences, religious restrictions or gluten sensitivities. You want to make sure that everyone ends up with cookies their family can enjoy.

THE EXCHANGE

Once the planning is out of the way, the rest of the cookie exchange is easy. The host should make sure to check in with participants as the exchange approaches to make sure everyone is still able to bring their cookies and attend.

The exchange itself can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. One option is to make your exchange part of a larger holiday party, enjoying each other’s company (maybe with some festive beverages) while you taste test one another’s cookies. Everyone gets to take home their new batch of cookies at the end of the event.

If schedules don’t allow for a party that everyone can attend, each participant can drop off their cookies ahead of time for the host to package up and distribute later.

BEYOND THE COOKIE

This format works great for lots of different types of exchange. Swap frozen meals, soup, holiday beverages, even charcuterie board components – the concept is the same. Everybody brings enough servings for each participant and then you mix and match to end up with a variety that can be enjoyed throughout the holiday season.

No matter what you choose to swap, exchanges are a great way to share with the people you care about this holiday season. Enjoy!

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.

Hair for the holidays

Christmas

By Trista Arney

Winter is here, and with it, the holiday season! That means it’s time to think about the annual holiday traditions you share with the family. One of the traditions my family has always enjoyed is creating a gingerbread house.

It’s messy, fun and creative… but we often don’t actually consume our confection after we’ve made it. It sits out as the gingerbread gets stale and the icing gets rock hard. We pick at some of the candies, but usually almost the entire creation ends up in the garbage.

I hate the waste, so we’ve tried several alternative ideas to make this tradition work better for our family. The fun in any gingerbread creation is the artistic creativity combined with STEM skills to create a sturdy structure.

something that your family enjoys eating and that meets your needs. If you have family members who are glutenfree, you can find recipes for gluten-free gingerbread or choose to go with pre-purchased gluten-free cookies that you enjoy. We like to use chocolate melts (available in a variety of colors) to draw out walls on parchment paper using piping bags. Let them harden and create whatever structure you can imagine!

Thinking beyond the house

Make one out of non-edible materials

If your family doesn’t like gingerbread and doesn’t want all the sugary decorations, why not try out a nonfood gingerbread creation? Challenge your family to create a gingerbread house out of building blocks, modeling dough or melty beads. These creations can be temporary displays or you can create something more permanent that can be stored away with other decorations and revisited or added to every year. You can also combine making a gingerbread house with creating a cardboard fort to change a food-based craft into an active and imaginative one!

Make one out of other treats

Maybe you’d like to keep this annual craft food-based, but want to switch up the materials. There are so many options out there, from do-it-yourself to pre-packaged kits – and not just for traditional gingerbread. Create your own structure out of chocolate bars, crackers, marshmallow treats, pop tarts, or graham crackers. Pick

Maybe a traditional gingerbread house isn’t for you. You can create trees, gingerbread trains, castles, forts, log cabins, sleds, villages, etc. The beauty of the craft is that you can make almost anything using gingerbread or by branching out to alternate materials. One of my favorite alternative shapes (and it’s so easy!) is to create an evergreen tree out of stacked cookies. The beauty of this idea is that you can use whatever cookie recipe your family enjoys, or even combine different types. It always turns out looking great! For the best effect, use starshaped cookies in varying sizes and stack from largest to smallest. Decorate your tree with piped icing and candies, if you want.

Gingerbread houses don’t have to remain a ‘stale’ tradition. There are lots of ways to enjoy family time together building and being creative.

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.

try camping this winter (no tent required)

From hostels to glamping, get out and enjoy the snow!

By Tanya Koob; photo courtesy of Tanya Koob

My family loves camping year-round, but I draw a line at pitching a tent in a snow drift. Fortunately, there are several ways to enjoy winter camping in total comfort and warmth, and you might not even need a sleeping bag!

ENJOY RUSTIC HOSTEL CAMPING IN KANANASKIS OR BANFF

HI Kananaskis – The Ribbon Creek wilderness hostel is located a short drive from the Nakiska Ski Area and my family likes to spend the weekend here for easy access to both Nakiska and Kananaskis Village. Enjoy resort skiing, skating on the village pond, and snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on the trail network right outside the hostel door.

The hostel has several small private family rooms as well as two shared dorm rooms (separated by gender). Kitchen facilities are shared along with a common room where you can play games or read by a cozy wood burning fire. You’ll experience indoor plumbing, lights, electricity, and every comfort of home. For a true camping experience bring some marshmallows for the outdoor firepit.

Note: the private rooms only sleep three people, so you may have to book two rooms for your family. Also, guests must be at least 13 years old to stay in shared dorm rooms.

HI Mosquito Creek – The Mosquito Creek Wilderness Hostel is located on the scenic Icefields Parkway, 20 minutes away from Lake Louise. There is a private cabin on site divided into two private rooms with a sitting area and kitchen in the middle. Each bedroom sleeps five and has two bunk beds, one of them a double on bottom. While it’s more rustic than staying at a mountain resort, your children will have plenty of great stories to tell when they return to school on Monday!

While staying at Mosquito Creek, you will be a short drive away from the many adventures that await you at Lake Louise from downhill skiing to cross country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, skating, or sleigh rides. The possibilities are endless!

Note: if you want to have the cabin to yourself, you will have to find another family to join you on your trip and book both private rooms. Otherwise, you will be sharing the common area of the cabin.

OTHER FAMILY FAVORITE WILDERNESS HOSTELS

HI Athabasca Falls, Jasper National Park features a cabin with two private sleeping rooms. Six beds per room. Shared main cabin with kitchen, fireplace, and living room. Outside bathrooms. Convenient location near the Marmot Basin Ski Hill and the Town of Jasper.

HI Hilda Creek, Banff National Park is the best hostel for families that want to reserve a whole hostel, since it only sleeps six. Winter survival skills necessary for this rugged hostel that resembles a backcountry hut. The property houses two cabins – one for sleeping, and one with the kitchen and common area. Be prepared to snowshoe or ski 500m to the hostel off the highway if there’s been fresh snow overnight.

For more information on Wilderness Hostels in the Canadian Rockies, please visit the Hostelling International website at hihostels.ca.

Ski or Snowshoe into a Backcountry Hut with your Family

The Alpine Club of Canada operates and maintains over 25 backcountry huts across the Canadian Rockies. Most are too challenging for a family to access in winter,

but a few are very accessible for families who enjoy winter hiking or cross-country skiing.

We have snowshoed or skied into the A.O. Wheeler Hut in Canada's Glacier National Park three times now, and it always amazes me how easy it is to get kids into the backcountry for a winter trip when you stay here. With a short approach and a very large cabin, you can invite your whole gang of friends to join you for a fun group winter getaway.

The Wheeler Hut can be reached by vehicle in summer, and by a very short 1.2km ski or hike in winter. Most children I know can hike or ski that far. And if not, it's easy to tow them in a sled.

You’ll need wilderness skills for this adventure; water is boiled from snow you’ll collect, and bathrooms are outside. You need to bring sleeping bags, but mattresses are provided in the common room upstairs where everybody bunks together. There is no minimum age to stay here, and you’ll share all amenities with other hut users including the kitchen and common rooms. The hut is kept warm by wood burning fireplaces and all dishes and cooking supplies are provided along with propane stoves and lanterns.

For more information on backcountry huts, visit alpineclubofcanada.ca.

Hike into a Backcountry Yurt near Radium Hot Springs, BC

Radius Retreat is a year-round mountain side retreat offering ten hike-in yurt rentals near the Village of Radium Hot Springs. The nearest yurt is a short 200m walk from the parking lot and very accessible with a sled or backpack for your overnight gear. Most yurts sleep three people, but a few of the bigger yurts will accommodate a family of four. There are also two yurts located side by side if you want to camp with a small group.

Each yurt has its own bathroom located just outside the door, and amenities include an indoor wood burning stove with firewood, a propane stove (bring your own propane), a bear-proof food locker, and a covered

outdoor cooking area. All cooking must be done outside where there is also an outdoor firepit. Bring your own bedding or sleeping bags. Dogs are also allowed in all yurts at Radius.

Enjoy the retreat’s hiking paths, visit the hot springs, or explore the Columbia Valley from your private yurt. You could even drive to Panorama to go skiing for the day.

For more information, visit radiusretreat.com.

Enjoy Glamping and Total Decadence at Mount Engadine Lodge, Kananaskis

Stay in a canvas glamping tent at Mount Engadine Lodge and you’ll be toasty warm. Each tent comes equipped with indoor plumbing, a shower, and a gas fireplace. All bedding is provided, and you’ll be sleeping in a cozy king-sized bed with a pull-out sofa for the children.

All meals are included with your stay including afternoon tea and a charcuterie board, a three-course dinner, breakfast the next day, and a packed lunch to go. This is five-star glamping, and every decadence is yours while staying at this backcountry lodge in Kananaskis with convenient drive-up access off the Spray Lakes Road from Canmore.

From the lodge, drive to nearby Mount Shark to try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, hike to Rummel Lake, or enjoy an afternoon lounging by the fireplace in the gorgeous lodge with a book. Dogs are allowed in several rooms at Mount Engadine and the lodge also has cabins, suites, or lodge rooms to accommodate families or groups.

For more information, visit the mountengadine.com.

See you in the wilderness this winter!

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.

top 5 unusual things to see in Alberta with kids

Check out these amazing sites just a short drive away

By Debbie Olsen

A road trip is one of the simplest and most economical family vacations. Whether your children are teenagers or infants, there are many amazing sites to see and explore in Alberta. The province is filled with natural and human made attractions that are unique in the world. Unusual sites can be a stop on the way to visit extended family and friends or they might be a destination in themselves. As a parent of four children, I’ve spent years exploring the unusual side of Alberta with my family – making unforgettable memories. Here are a few recommendations of unusual things to see with your children. (You’ll find many more in my new book, Top 150 Unusual Things to See in Alberta!)

Take a Selfie with a Big Roadside Attraction

It’s hard not to pull over and take a selfie with the world’s largest beaver, the world’s largest perogy, the world’s largest pysanka (Easter egg) or the world’s largest sausage. There are giant roadside attractions right across the province. An entire book could be dedicated to Alberta’s roadside attractions. If you’re hitting the road with your kids, it’s a good idea to see if there’s a roadside attraction along the way. When you find one, hop out of the car and take a picture. If

Learn About the Fur Trade at Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site

Operated by Parks Canada, Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site has fascinating displays and programs that tell the story of the fur trade. There’s a play fort for kids to explore, a bison herd, a puppet show, great walking trails and a campground with comfort camping in trapper’s tents, tipis and wooden cottages.

Alberta’s Only Playhouse Resort

What child, or adult for that matter, doesn’t dream about staying in an elf’s cottage in the woods?

you’re at the world’s largest sausage, consider stopping in town to buy some sausage. It’s really good sausage and it would be even better heated over a campfire.

Take a Free Tour of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta Touring the Alberta Legislature is free and it’s fun. There’s a fascinating free 3D film about the history of Alberta and guided tours of the interior of the building

Charmed Resorts in the Crowsnest Pass is owned by Tyson Leavitt who has been building luxury playhouses since 2015. He and his wife Audrey had a reality TV show called Playhouse Masters that ran on TLC for a season. Some of the playhouses they built for rich and famous clients cost up to half a million dollars! In 2020, they have used their skills to build a unique resort of luxury-style playhouses in the Crowsnest Pass.

See a Rare White Bison

Alberta’s first Métis cultural destination sits on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River near Smoky Lake about 90 minutes northeast of Edmonton. Métis Crossing is a year-round destination with a campground, a day lodge, a new guest lodge, a restaurant and many different onsite activities that can help you understand Métis culture. There’s also a wildlife park that contains small herds of plains bison, woods bison, white bison, elk, white elk, and Percheron horses. White bison are extremely rare and are considered very sacred creatures by many Indigenous peoples. Métis Crossing is one of the few places in the world where you can see them.

Debbie is an award-winning Métis writer and a national bestselling author. Follow her at wanderwoman.ca. Exploring the unusual side of Alberta is a fun family adventure and Debbie’s new book Top 150 Unusual Things to See in Alberta can help!

allow visitors to learn about art and architecture as well as the political history of the province. In winter, families can skate on outdoor rinks and in summer, kids can wade in the fountains.

“The province is filled with natural and human made attractions that are unique in the world.”

Elvyn's Cottage; photo courtesy of Kyla Hornberg

White bison; photo courtesy of Debbie Olsen

Deadline to enter is December 31, 2022. Please only vote once.

Please take a moment to vote so together we can recognize those businesses that truly make Calgary a wonderful place to live. Awards results will be published in our Chinook Edition, on stands in early February.

Class & Program

extracurricular activities: communicating expectations

What to do when they don’t want to go to the lessons they begged you for

By Julie Freedman Smith

Soccer, swimming, karate, violin lessons – no matter the activity, you are not alone if you find yourself trapped in a battle about going to the activity, which, one month ago, they begged you to do. I’ve been coaching families for 20 years, and this has always been a challenge. Now, after COVID, it feels even bigger. The kids aren’t alone! I know so many adults that are just not that interested in heading out to an activity anymore.

Yet, there are amazing programs being run for kids everywhere! Sometimes they’re optional. Sometimes, we need our kids to attend for childcare purposes or because we feel it’s important that they are learning a specific skill or to be part of a team.

Once you are clear about what activities fit your family, it’s time to figure out your family’s rules about attending activities.

My child chose the activity

Sometimes your child may come running into the house, saying “can I play soccer? My friend is playing on Tuesdays and I want to play too, I love soccer!”

In these scenarios, it can feel doubly maddening when, after they begged you to start, you find yourself on the end of complaints and pleading. “Please don’t make me go to soccer!”

1. Be clear about the rules before you register for any activity and communicate them clearly to your child.

Have them say the rules back to you. These rules could be (but do not have to be):

• We expect you to go to the activity and participate unless you are very sick.

We expect you to pack your bag for the activity the night before (if applicable)

• We expect you to do what’s required (practicing the music piece, for example) so that you are prepared for the activity.

• If you have a conflict, we will need to discuss it ahead of time and decide whether or not it is reasonable. (You may want to put older children in charge of informing their coach or instructor about their absence.)

2. Be clear about how often they need to go before they change their mind

• You are registered for three months of this activity. If you don’t love it, we don’t have to register again, but the plan is for you to go and participate during those three months.

“Ultimately, it’s about creating a pattern of small successes, and courage rather than arguments.”

You chose the activity

Many of my clients sign their kids up for swimming lessons every year for safety reasons. The children might not love getting their ears wet, but it’s important for them to learn how to survive in and around the water. Be clear about the expectations for these lessons and explain why you signed them up.

• If kids are frightened, work with them to find courage and make baby steps forward.

• Acknowledge feelings and support them in finding a way to move forward.

• If they ask you to be with them, communicate that you will be on the pool deck for the first lesson (if allowed) then you will wean yourself away (five minutes the second lesson, two minutes the next lesson, etc.).

Packing their own bag

Young kids love to be helpful, and children of all ages can learn to be responsible for their own things. Make a list, with your child, of the things they’ll need for the activity: indoor shoes, uniform, etc.

If your child cannot yet read, ask them to draw pictures of the items, and you put the word beside the picture. Then, schedule a time the night before the event to have them use the list to help you pack the bag.

You may have to do it with them at first (or always, if your child is very young), but let them help you at the beginning, and then show you their packed bag as they gain confidence. Depending on their age, help them get the bag to the car or have them do that on their own. Older children will quickly learn that if they forget something, they will not be able to participate fully.

Don’t rescue them by bringing it to them! They can survive a day of learning.

Getting your child to practice

Arguing over practice (piano, learning a script, dribbling skills) can become a habit, and all habits can be changed. They won’t be changed in the heat of the moment, though! It will require some planning by parents and some work as a family.

• Get an understanding of the requirements between formal practices from the coach or instructor.

• Look at the schedule – when is a good time to practice?

• Plan a meeting with your child to develop a schedule for practice. How long each day? What skills need to be practiced?

• Create a clear list of what is to be done. Some kids love checklists. This is not a reward chart (the reward is improving)! They could certainly use stickers on the chart, though, to keep track of the fact that they are getting the job done.

• Ask the child to choose the order of practice to be done (if applicable).

• Often, a child’s wish for perfection will get in the way of practicing. Encourage them to find the courage to make mistakes each day.

• It’s not the parent’s job to practice. That said, your child may be fighting about practicing to get your attention. If your child seems to enjoy your company while practicing, plan to sit in the room and read, draw or work on your own projects while your child

practices. Talk about facts rather than feelings: “I noticed you did that scale three times and you were a little faster than yesterday. Good job!”

• Ultimately, it’s about creating a pattern of small successes, and courage rather than arguments.

Fighting about activities isn’t worth it. When misbehaviors happen, it is kids showing us that they need to learn a new way to do things. Arguments about activities are an indicator that we need to come together as a family and figure out a way to teach a new way of being for all members of the family. Need help? Give me a call!

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.

Class & Program Directory

ANIMALS & NATURE

CALGARY HUMANE SOCIETY

Phone: 403-205-4455 Website: calgaryhumane.ca

CALGARY REPTILE PARTIES

Phone: 403-457-2202 Email: reptile.party@hotmail.com Website: calgaryreptileparties.com

Since 2008, Calgary Reptile Parties has provided quality educational reptile programming for birthday parties, events, schools, summer camps, and more. Celebrating 14 years of quality nature education. Thousands of people of all ages have met our amazing animals, such as leaping geckos, colorful pythons, friendly dragons, furry tarantulas, huge boa constrictors, and more while learning about the lives and care of these amazing animals! A multiple-time Calgary’s Child Parents’ Choice Award Winner, we bring the animal fun to you! Join the adventure with Calgary Reptile Parties!

CITY OF CALGARY PARKS NATURE PROGRAMS

Phone: 311 Website: calgary.ca/csps/parks/programs/program-guide. html

YYC NATURE & EDUCATION CENTRE

Phone: 403-457-2202 Email: yycnaturecentre@gmail.com Website: yycnaturecentre.com

From the team that brings you Calgary Reptile Parties comes YYC’s newest nature experience. Offering public events, classes, PD day camps, Teen After School Clubs, and much more. Private bookings for birthdays, family get togethers, scouts/guides, and small classroom sizes. Meet exotic reptiles, birds, mammals, and more!

ART, DANCE & THEATRE

ALBERTA BALLET SCHOOL

Phone: 403-245-2274

Email: calgarystudios@albertaballet.com Website: albertaballetschool.com

Whether trying dance for the first time or seeking toplevel training for your aspiring dancer, Alberta Ballet School, the official training school of Alberta Ballet, has programs for all ages and levels of experience. All classes are delivered in a fun and engaging studio environment with qualified instructors and live accompaniment.

Alberta Ballet School is the top choice for ballet instruction in Calgary.

CALGARY YOUNG PEOPLE’S THEATRE

Phone: 403-242-7118, Ext. 1 Email: cypt@cypt.ca Website: cypt.ca

Calgary Young People’s Theatre is proud to present our exciting lineup of Fall and Winter Drama Classes for youth ages four to 17! Join us as we explore exciting theatrical techniques and skills through various dramatic exercises and games. Our classes provide a unique opportunity for kids to build confidence and teamwork skills, all while having fun!

FREE HOUSE DANCE PLUS LTD

Phone: 403-282-0555

Email: fhdp@telusplanet.net Website: freehousedance.com

Dance is Serious Fun at Free House Dance Plus where we welcome, engage, and inspire all ages - kids, teens, and adults. With a credible reputation in the dance community spanning 35 years, our professional

MUSIC LESSONS

ALL INSTRUMENTS

instructors provide everyone with a fun, educational, high-caliber, and safe dance experience. Jazz, tap, ballet, modern, hip hop, musical theatre, lyrical, acrodance, flamenco, Bollywood, Latin styles, dance beats, aerial fusion, Zumba, Yamuna body rolling, west African frumming, and more!

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 for creating and connecting. We offer birthday parties for all ages, date night, girls night out, fundraisers, team building, and more. We offer painting parties for all of life’s celebrations. Book your event at our studio, or have us come to you. We lead you through step by step. This is fun art for all ages and stages. You keep the art, we clean up the mess!

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

BETHEL 23 JOB’S DAUGHTERS

Phone: 403-807-3831 Website: bethel23yyc.com

Creating confident young women in your community. Bethel 23 Job’s Daughters is a youth leadership group for girls ages ten to 20 years. We help girls grow and learn life skills, such as leadership, teamwork, community service, public speaking, and self-confidence in a supportive environment and become leaders of tomorrow. We encourage fun, friendship, leadership, love of family and country, community service, scholarship opportunities, and self-confidence.

GROUP PROGRAMS

FOR ALL AGES!

MUSIC KIDS

AGES 6 MONTHS TO 5 YEARS

SPECIAL OLYMPICS CALGARY

Phone: 403-735-1022

Email: info@specialolympicscalgary.ca Website: specialolympicscalgary.ca

Special Olympics Calgary is committed to enriching the lives of Calgarians with an intellectual disability through sport. We provide summer and winter sports programs to individuals ages two and up. We give athletes the opportunity to realize their full athletic potential and enjoy social opportunities that develop skills they can use in their everyday life.

MUSIC

CALGARY CHILDREN’S CHOIR

1212 1 Street NW

Phone: 403-210-3499

Email: info@calgarychildrenschoir.com

Website: calgarychildrenschoir.com

Calgary Children’s Choir has been Singing for the Joy of It! for 35 years. This unique choral experience offers children and youth ages three to 21 the opportunity to sing, perform, and appreciate a wide variety of musical styles. Location is central northwest, opportunities for choir camp and touring are available, and fundraising by parents is completely optional! If you are looking for a musical home where talents are nurtured and friendships are born, then you have come to the right place.

CALGARY GIRLS CHOIR (CGC)

Phone: 403-686-7444

Email: office@calgarygirlschoir.com Website: calgarygirlschoir.com Discover a place where singing and friendship go hand-in-hand and every voice matters! Giving ‘Young Women a Voice’ since 1995, the Calgary Girls Choir is an award-winning choral program dedicated to inspiring and empowering young women through music. By focusing on musical excellence and personal growth, the Calgary Girls Choir develops vocal skills, musical literacy, confidence, and enduring friendships. CGC offers exciting performance/touring opportunities for ages five to adult and exceptional training from founder and master teacher, Elaine Quilichini.

CANTARÉ CHILDREN’S CHOIR

Phone: 403-685-1132

Email: office@cantarechildrenschoir.org Website: cantarechildrenschoir.org Come sing with us… More than music… a place to be you! Come sing with the Cantaré Children’s Choir! Boys and girls aged six to 18 are invited to join one of our four award-winning ensembles, led by Catherine GlaserClimie. Concerts, tours, retreats, and much more. We offer a combination of online and in-person instruction to provide an exceptional music experience. Includes ensemble work, small groups, and one-on-one coaching.

CHINOOK SCHOOL OF MUSIC (CSM)

Phone: 403-246-8446

Email: info@chinookschoolofmusic.com Website: chinookschoolofmusic.com

Private Lessons: At CSM, students of all ages enjoy lessons in piano, guitar, voice, violin, cello, flute, ukulele, drums, saxophone, and theory in studio, online, and in home settings. Music Kids is Chinook School of Music’s early childhood music program for ages six months to five years. Our modern approach to music education integrates scientific research supporting the positive role that music plays on brain development. Classes incorporate singing, movement, and instrument play. Children experience a joyful and nurturing learning environment while developing fundamental music skills.

CHRYSANTHEMA’S SCHOOL OF VIOLIN

Phone: 403-836-6403

Email: violino@shaw.ca Website: chrysanthemaviolin.com

World class violin instruction based on the best traditions of top violin schools enriched by more than 40 years of performance and teaching. The school offers music lessons in Classical & Baroque violin, viola, and piano. New fall programs for children four and up. Masterclasses, workshops, chamber music, string orchestra, and more. Private and group classes in person and online.

KODALY MUSIC EXPLORERS - CANTARÉ CHILDREN’S CHOIR

Phone: 403-685-1132

Email: office@cantarechildrenschoir.org Website: cantarechildrenschoir.org Kodály Music Explorers program for children ages three to seven offers a fun-filled approach to your child’s music development. Using the child’s own instrument, the voice, children learn songs, rhymes, and musical games to acquire knowledge, skills, and a love of music. You will be thrilled at how quickly your child can progress and parents have tons of fun, too!

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.

MOUNT ROYAL UNIVERSITY CONSERVATORY

4825 Mount Royal Gate SW

Phone: 403-440-6821

Email: conservatory@mtroyal.ca Website: mru.ca/conservatory

Find your tune with the Mount Royal University Conservatory! World-class music, speech arts and drama education for every age and every stage, right here in Calgary. Programs include private lessons, group classes, orchestras, ensembles, choirs and advanced performance-based programs. Lessons and programs are taking place in-person at our incredible facilities on the MRU campus but online options may be available upon request. Explore winter programs starting in early 2023 on the website!

SCHOOL OF ROCK

Calgary South (Douglasdale SE)

Phone: 403-460-7625

Email: calgarysouth@schoolofrock.com Calgary (17th Avenue SW) Phone: 587-535-7625 (SW)

Email: calgary@schoolofrock.com Website: schoolofrock.com

School of Rock is the music school for all skill levels, ages,

and musical aspirations. With students ranging from five years old to adults, School of Rock is where music students grow into real musicians. The performance program is School of Rock's hallmark music program! Utilizing the patented School of Rock Method, the performance program consists of a weekly group rehearsal where kids and teens learn by playing rock music's most iconic songs with a band composed of their peers. Get back to school at the best music school in the world.

YOUTH SINGERS OF CALGARY (YSC)

Phone: 403-234-9549

Email: yscadmin@youthsingers.org Website: youthsingers.org

Sing! Dance! Act! Youth Singers of Calgary (YSC) is a vibrant performing arts company and an exceptional education program that encompasses singing, dancing, and theatre arts for ages three and a half to adult. We also offer performing arts-based PD-day, spring, and summer camps for Grades 1 to 6, as well as programming for those with cognitive delays. No matter your age or musical experience, YSC has a program for you.

SPORTS & RECREATION

BREATHE PARKOUR

Phone: 403-273-2245

Email: info@breathepk.com Website: breathepk.com

Breathe Parkour offers non-competitive classes in an easy to access location with a schedule that is flexible

for even the busiest parents! Get your kids off the couch and moving with our progressive programming and unique facility to keep your kids engaged and healthy. Discover movement and stay active with classes, camps, and parties!

CALGARY AQUABELLES

Phone: 403-209-2941

Email: info@aquabelles.com Website: aquabelles.com

We provide superior programs and expertise in the sport of Artistic (Synchronized) Swimming; developing well-rounded, confident individuals to achieve their full potential.

CITY OF CALGARY WINTER RECREATION PROGRAMS

Various locations

Phone: 403-268-3800

Website: calgary.ca/register

What does your family live to do? Our winter programs offer an affordable, creative, and active way to explore new activities and make new friends. We offer a safe, non-competitive environment where children and adults can develop new skills and interests in a safe environment. Choose from swimming, fitness and wellness, visual arts, skating and hockey, sports, day camps and more! Proud to be the recipient of “Best programs for School-Aged Children” 2022 Parents’ Choice award.

GLENMORE GYMNASTICS CLUB

6404 6A Street SE

Phone: 403-251-3469

Email: info@glenmoregymnastics.ca Website: glenmoregymnastics.ca

Join us for some gymnastics fun at our new facility! Registration is ongoing with new monthly intakes. Our programs begin with Active Start for the little ones aged two to five, Cangym age six and up, and Acro aged four and up. We also offer Kids Night Out, day camps, and drop-ins. Conveniently located by Hotel Blackfoot. Learn more at glenmoregymnastics.ca.

MASTER RIM’S TAEKWONDO

1102 288 St. Moritz Drive SW

Phone: 1-844-342-1998

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

Master Rim’s Taekwondo is the leading provider of Martial Arts in Alberta with world-renowned instructors and programs. Our programs teach discipline, focus,

commitment, and the values of hard work and selfcontrol. Led by Canadian National Team Head Coach, Master Seoungmin Rim. We’re dedicated to helping students become the best they can be! We guarantee, learning Taekwondo at Master Rim’s is truly rewarding with benefits that last a lifetime.

PAPERNY FAMILY JCC

Phone: 403-253-8600 Website: calgaryjcc.com

Everyone is welcome to attend our licensed early childhood programs! Our full-time daycare offers an emergent, Reggio Emilia inspired curriculum. Our parttime preschool programs aim to get children two to four years old ahead of the academic curve before they move into grade school.

MNP

COMMUNITY & SPORT CENTRE (FORMERLY REPSOL SPORTS CENTRE)

Phone: 403-233-8393

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

Keep the kids active in the pool with group swim lessons starting at four months old, or check out private lessons offering a more customized approach. For more advanced swimmers, check out our Sea Dragons Swim and Lifesaving Clubs or older kids may be ready to train to become a lifeguard. In our Active Living program, preschoolers ages two to five will learn through hands-on activities in all areas of our spacious facility - gym, pool, park, and classroom. PD Camps keeps kids ages five to 12 busy exploring different sports and games, plus some time in the pool during those days off from school. New this winter, Active Energizers, a six-week program designed with inclusivity in mind for children ages five to 12 and of all abilities.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN DIVING CLUB

Phone: 587-997-5756

Email: rockymountaindiving.info@gmail.com Website: rockymountaindiving.ca

Rocky Mountain Diving Club (RMDC) offers recreational Learn-to-Dive and pre-competitive programs for all ages. Our goal is to provide quality technical springboard and platform diving instruction at the introductory level in a safe, controlled, and fun environment. We incorporate trampoline and dry board training, as well as dry land strength and flexibility conditioning into all lessons.

SPRAY LAKE SAWMILLS FAMILY SPORTS CENTRE

800 Griffin Road E, Cochrane

Phone: 403-932-1635 Website: slsfamilysportscentre.com

With 350,000 square feet of space and over 15,000 weekly users, the Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre (SLSFSC) is a tremendous facility for all members of the community and surrounding area. SLSFSC includes three NHL Size Ice Surfaces, Jayman BUILT Aquatic Centre, and many spray features that will give your children hours of entertainment!

TRICO CENTRE FOR FAMILY WELLNESS

11150 Bonaventure Drive SE

Phone: 403-278-7542

Email: guestservices@tricocentre.ca Website: tricocentre.ca

We offer day camps and swim lessons over the holidays, child and youth art, sports, and activity programs, and flexible Mommy & Me classes all year long for you and your little one.

VIVO FOR HEALTHIER GENERATIONS

1950 Country Village Link NE

Phone: 403-532-1013

Email: guestservices@vivo.ca Website: vivo.ca

As a charity on an audacious mission to create healthier generations, we empower Canadians to connect, care

for and advocate more for their health, community and the planet. Whether you want to skate, swim, climb or just connect with your community, we’re here to help you start where you’re at and pursue whatever ‘healthy’ means to you!

WINSPORT

Phone: 403-247-5452

Email: info@winsport.ca Website: winsport.ca

WinSport’s purpose is to inspire human potential through the spirit of sport and it’s something that is woven into all of our year-round, award-winning programming. Our passionate, expert instructors will help your child learn a sport, get better at it, and develop a lifelong love for being active. We have summer camps and programs in mountain biking, hockey, ringette, figure skating, and in specialized sport training. Come out and play with us!

YMCA CALGARY Website: ymcacalgary.org

Join us and experience all the benefits that YMCA Calgary has to offer! We have six health and wellness facilities, six child development centers with licensed child care, two outdoor camp sites and dozens of community program sites across the city. These spaces and programs allow YMCA Calgary to deliver programs, services and opportunities to help Calgarians connect, build life-long skills and live active and healthy lives.

big questions to ask before choosing a class or program

Here

Time and energy commitment:

• How much time do we have per week to commit to this class?

• Does this class require rehearsal and practice during the week? How much?

• How far away is this class, and how will my child get there?

• Does my child have enough energy after school for another class, or is a weekend day better?

• How many weeks does this class run for?

• How ‘serious’ is this program? What level of commitment is expected?

Interest and importance:

• Is this a class I want my child to take, or that my child wants to take?

• Does this class teach an important life skill, or is it just for fun?

• If this is a class my child chose, do I feel they will have sustained interest in it for the duration of the program?

• If I chose it, why do I feel like my child should take this class?

• What will we do as a family if there’s a major disconnect between what I think is important and what my child enjoys?

Quality and cost questions:

• Who is organizing and running the class and how are they certified?

• Does this program have good reviews?

• How will progress and learning be measured and reported?

What is the parent culture like? (Do the parents get along with the coaches/organizers/each other? Is there a lot of interpersonal drama?)

• What are the equipment and supply costs? Are rentals available?

• Does this program seem to have appropriate safety protocols?

• Are parents allowed to watch practices? Why or why not? CCM

Learn to skate!

be the sports parent your kid can be proud of

Kids take cues from their parents on what’s appropriate behavior

By Jan Udlock

Playing team sports is an important milestone in many children’s lives. Team sports teach discipline, appropriate behavior in winning and losing, the importance of physical exercise, self-confidence and more. Additionally, parents play an important role in the learning curve because kids take cues from their parents on what’s appropriate behavior and what’s not.

Every parent wants their child to do well and even shine on the court. In the process of support and excitement, are you encouraging your child or are you being a pain on the field? Here are some guidelines to help you be the best sports parent you can be.

Write the cheque

Talk with your kid about different team sports. What are they interested in? Discuss with your child about playing sports and about the major benefit of team sports; that is, making friends. Talk with your spouse and make sure it is not your agenda for your child to play the sport you once played. Then sign them up and write the cheque!

“One of the primary reasons youngsters participate in sports is to have a sense of accomplishment and self-esteem. This is difficult to do when a parent is trying to vicariously live through his child’s performance,” says Joe Cummings, CEO and Executive Director of a National Soccer Coaches Association.

Be helpful

Involvement with your child’s team speaks volumes about your of support for your child. Whether you bring snacks, take team pictures, coordinate parties afterward or your business sponsors the team, get involved. If the coach wants parent participation in the team’s practice, get on the field and help out.

Families’ calendars get crazy full when there is more than one child in the family playing on a sports team. However, make arrangements to attend as many games as possible. If only one parent at a time can attend

the game, switch up parents so both parents attend everyone’s game. If you have nearby family members, invite them to a few games. If you do not have any immediate family members living close by, invite a neighbor or a family friend to watch your child’s game. Coaches and other team players count on each other to be on time for practices and games. “Ensuring the players are properly equipped, and are punctual for practices and for games are great ways parents can support their kids,” suggests Joe.

At the game

There are different roles and responsibilities at a game. The parent’s job is to provide emotional support for their child and leave the coaching to the coach. “Respect the coach’s expertise and if they are volunteer coaches with little coaching experience, respect the time and effort they are devoting,” says Dr. Jim Taylor, sport psychologist and author of Positive Pushing: How to Raise a Successful and Happy Child

Cheer for all the kids on the team, regardless of how they do. Before the game, ask your child if they would prefer you to cheer for them loudly or softly. Some kids would prefer their parents not cheer for them because it causes undue pressure on them. On the other hand, if you have a child that wants the loud banter, have a nickname for your kid. Your child will hear the pet name among other screaming fans.

Let your kids fail

Watching your child strike out or repeatedly miss a basket is painful for a parent, yet allowing kids to fail is a part of the maturing process. Children are learning skills as well as character when they achieve and when they are disappointed.

A poor call

After a game, if your child brings up the topic of a bad call from the referee, discuss it with them. However, do not let them have a ‘victim’ mentality that says their team lost because of the ref’s poor call.

“Referees are human and are bound to make a legitimate mistake or two during any game. However,

there also is the matter of a ‘perceived mistake,’ where the difference in viewing the angle can make all the difference,” says Joe.

Criticizing the ref’s inconsistent calls does not help anyone in the long run.

Inappropriate behavior

Most sports organizations have parent-conduct rules. Coaches normally review them with the parents before formal games begin. Referees are entitled to throw a parent out of the game for inappropriate behavior or ban a parent from the sports park for the rest of the game. If a parent does not stop the behavior, their child’s team will automatically forfeit the game. Dr. Taylor recommends that the coach or another parent not talk down to the offending parent, but focus on the offending behavior and explain how it hurts the child.

If you are getting a little too involved in your child’s sport, slow down a bit by sitting farther down the field away from the action.

“Winning is not the point because few children will rise very far up the competitive ladder,” says Dr. Taylor.

Team sports can be fun for the entire family and can give your child a rewarding experience.

“The goal of sports is to instill a love of sport, exercise, physical activity, have fun, develop good motor skills and essential life skills,” says Dr. Taylor.

Jan is a mom of five, and a freelance writer. She had to sit farther down the third baseline so as not to get too involved in her sons’ sports games.

• Licensed Full-time Childcare

• Licensed Part-time Preschool

• Fitness and Sports Programs

• Seasonal and Summer Camps

CALGARYJCC.COM • 403-253-8600

Registration

concussion guide for parents and caregivers

By Parachute Canada

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury that cannot be seen on routine X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. It affects the way a child may think and remember things, and can cause a variety of symptoms.

What are the signs and symptoms of a concussion?

Your child does not need to be knocked out (lose consciousness) to have had a concussion. Your child might experience one or more of the following:

n Thinking problems:

• Does not know time, date, place, details about a recent activity

• General confusion

• Cannot remember things that happened before and after the injury

• Knocked out n Child’s complaints:

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Feels dazed Feels “dinged” or stunned; “having my bell rung”

• Sees stars, flashing lights

• Ringing in the ears

SPLASH LIFT PLAY CREATE

• Sleepiness

• Loss of vision

• Sees double or blurry

• Stomachache, stomach pain, nausea

n Other problems:

• Poor coordination or balance

• Blank stare/glassy-eyed

• Vomiting Slurred speech

• Slow to answer questions or follow directions

• Easily distracted

• Poor concentration

• Strange or inappropriate emotions (i.e., laughing, crying, getting mad easily)

• Not participating well

It is harder for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers to communicate how they are feeling. If you have a young child, you might notice any of the following: crying more than usual; unsteady walking; lack of interest in favorite toys; changes in nursing, eating or sleeping patterns; or loss of new skills, such as toilet training.

Get medical help immediately if your child has any “red flag” symptoms such as neck pain, repeated

vomiting, growing confusion, seizures, and weakness or tingling in their arms or legs. These may be signs of a more serious injury.

What causes a concussion?

Any blow to the head, face or neck, or a blow to the body which causes a sudden jarring of the head may cause a concussion (e.g., a ball to the head, colliding with another person).

What should I do if I suspect my child has a concussion?

In all suspected cases of concussion, your child should stop the activity right away. Continuing increases their risk of more severe, longer-lasting concussion symptoms, as well as increases their risk of other injury.

The Concussion Recognition Tool 5 (CRT5) available widely online can be used by anyone to help recognize the signs and symptoms of a possible concussion.

Your child should not be left alone and should be seen by a doctor as soon as possible that day.

If your child loses consciousness, call an ambulance to take them to the hospital right away. Do not move your child or remove any equipment such as a helmet.

Your child should not return to play the same day.

How long before my child gets better?

The signs and symptoms of a concussion often last for one to four weeks but may last longer. In some cases, children may take many weeks or months to heal. If your child has had a concussion before, they may take longer to heal.

If your child’s symptoms are persistent (i.e., last longer than four weeks in youth under 18 years old), they should be referred to a healthcare professional who is an expert in the management of concussion.

How is concussion treated?

After an initial short period of rest (24 to 48 hours), light cognitive and physical activity can begin, as long as these don’t worsen symptoms. A medical doctor, preferably one with experience managing concussions, should be consulted before beginning step-wise Returnto-School and Return-to-Sport Strategies.

As your child is recovering from concussion, they should not do any activities that may make their symptoms worse. This might mean limiting activities such as riding their bike, play wrestling, reading, working on the computer or playing video games.

Recovering from concussion is a process that takes patience. If your child goes back to activities before they are ready, it is likely to make their symptoms worse, and their recovery might take longer.

When should my child go to the doctor?

Anyone with a possible head injury should be seen by a doctor as soon as possible. If your child is diagnosed with a concussion, the doctor should schedule a follow-up visit within the next one to two weeks.

Take your child back to the doctor immediately if, after being told they have a concussion, they have worsening symptoms, such as:

• Being more confused

• Headache that is getting worse

• Vomiting more than twice Not waking up

• Having any trouble walking

• Having a seizure

• Strange behavior

When can my child return to school, sport and physical activity?

Visit parachute.ca/en/injury-topic/concussion for Return-to-School and Return-to-Sport Strategies to help guide your child’s re-entry to learning and physical activity. It is essential that this is approached step-by-step for their safety and proper healing.

Parachute is Canada’s national charity dedicated to injury prevention. We envision a Canada free of serious injuries, with Canadians living long lives to the fullest. Visit us at parachute.ca for guidelines and resources about injury prevention and treatment.

TRICO KIDS KLUB

This action packed program transitions children through circle time, play-based learning activities, snack, crafts, and active games! A wonderful opportunity to explore, be curious, and develop age-appropriate skills.

PRO TIP with 2 hours child-free, you can explore the facilitypool, fitness centre, gymnasium, or group exercise classes!

“In all suspected cases of concussion, your child should stop the activity right away.”

activities – how do you choose?

Questions to ask yourself before signing up

By Julie Freedman Smith

Every family is different and so are the kids within a family. Fear of a child missing out on key experiences and important learnings can lead parents to want to overschedule. COVID also introduced a comfort in not running around (or driving) to too many activities.

Here are some questions to ask yourself: How much downtime do you want for your child each week?

• How much time will be taken up with reading and homework?

• Does your child already have any religious, cultural or language classes that will be filling downtime?

rest, homework and any mandatory classes, it can quite clearly outline the amount of time that actually remains for activities.

that the child will attend willingly. I help many parents who are embarrassed by children who won’t participate and throw tantrums to get out of activities. Clarity ahead of time can be very helpful in knowing how you will respond to your child’s behavior.

• Is it a parent supervised or child-only activity?

• Can a sibling or friend participate in the same activity?

• What behavior do you expect of your child?

• Who can that child rely on for help if you are not involved?

Getting everyone clear on the schedule and expectations along with consequences is a great start to making extra-curricular activities worthwhile.

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.

“Just because a child has time for a certain number of activities doesn’t mean that the child will attend willingly.“

what does your teen want?

Nurture them while giving them space to grow and learn

By Jan Pierce, M.Ed.

As a parent of a teen, you’re navigating uncharted territory and are likely open to advice from those who’ve gone before you. Your teen is going through tremendous emotional, physical, and social changes, while you may also be facing a series of your own ‘firsts’: the physical and emotional changes of aging, mid-life crisis issues, etc. The transitions faced by both you and your teen can make for some challenging times at home.

Your teen needs room to grow and change. While they’ll resist ‘micro-managing,’ they may be prone to taking risks that require intervention for their own safety. They want to stand on their own two feet and push you farther away as they turn to their peers for advice instead. They may become resistant to your family rules that used to be accepted, and they can seem sullen and uncooperative. In short, you look at your beloved child and barely recognize the sweet little person they were a short while ago.

On the other hand, your teen is vibrant and has energy to burn. They may be idealistic and full of plans to make the world a better place. They may become passionate about causes. They are loyal to their friends. They are in the process of developing the person they’ll become as an adult and may explore many creative outlets in that effort.

The teenage years are dynamic times filled with joys and struggles, and it is your responsibility to nurture them through these times. So… what does your teen really want?

TO BELONG

Although friends, teachers, and mentors will play a large role in your teen’s life, your family will always be their primary place of belonging. Home is where they’re nurtured, loved, and where they return after venturing out in the world. Home should always be a welcoming place for your teen.

Building and maintaining a positive bond with your teen is the goal. Although discipline will need to be part of family life, as much as possible make encouragement, positive words, and camaraderie be the norm. Spend time together. Family meals, game nights, and weekend outings may not come as often as they did before the teen years, but they should still happen. Including your teen’s friends in family events makes it more fun for all. Your teen needs to know they always have a place of belonging in the family.

TO BE HEARD

Typically, your teen is either holed up in their bedroom or out with their friends. So, when are you supposed to listen to them? It’s a challenge, for sure. But your teen has strong feelings about the issues of the day, and they have a need to share their thoughts. Plan times when the family focuses on a topic of the day to process together. Such events give room for all family members to voice their thoughts.

Your teen is trying out new ideas as they encounter them. They may take a stance in opposition to the ways you’ve taught them at home as an exercise in exploration. Listening to your teen, rather than correcting or becoming angry with them, models a healthy way to encounter opposing views.

Your teen also needs a safe place to ask questions that are troubling them or talk about behaviors amongst their friends that concern them. Today’s world requires teens to make important decisions about alcohol, drugs, and

sexual behaviors at an early age. These topics may be hard to discuss openly, but your teen needs support as they face them.

Your teen needs to know their family will listen to them.

TO BE SAFE

You need to be aware of the world your teen is living in - daily. Where do they go and what are they doing? Who do they spend their time with and are they in safe spaces? You need to be willing to step in and ‘rescue’ your kid if they find themselves in an unsafe situation. A code word decided upon by the family is one way to stay safe. A text of that one word means ‘come get me.’

The teen years require clear boundaries set by you. Reasonable expectations mean your teen can comply and there may be room for flexibility when they behave responsibly. Consequences should be both fair and immediate. Rules are meant to keep your child safe, and discipline is about teaching appropriate ways of living.

Keeping lines of communication open is a challenge during the teen years, but open lines of communication can go a long way in keeping your teen safe. Engaging in casual talks about how life is going, in general, can open deeper levels of communication when important topics need to be addressed.

Your teens want to feel safe.

TO BE LOVED UNCONDITIONALLY

While your teen needs privacy and wants to spend more time with their friends, they still need to feel loved by their family members. Anything you can do to demonstrate unconditional love is a plus. Some teens welcome hugs, while others prefer a less ‘fluffy’ pat on the back or high five.

Although much of parenting is reminding your kids to do their chores and complete their homework, strive to make your interactions positive every time you can. Adults like to hear positive words and affirmations; so do teens.

It’s important to show appreciation for your teen’s efforts, not only for their accomplishments. Trying a new sport or joining the drama club may not produce stellar performances but will be character-building. Look for ways to praise genuine effort.

When your teen makes a mistake or breaks rules, there is an opportunity to show them love. Consequences meted out fairly coupled with assurances of love and support can turn a bad situation into a learning opportunity for your teen.

Say the words. Tell your teen you love them, often. Teens need to know they’re loved.

Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and author. Find her at janpierce.net.

“Your teen needs to know they always have a place of belonging in the family.”

Teaching children the true meaning of giving

What’s the gift for someone who has everything? For Lana Cissell, the answer is simple.

“Our family gives the Gift of Sight because generosity is something we have to teach our kids,” she explains.

It’s a lesson Lana learned from her mom and dad, who began donating to Operation Eyesight on behalf of their children each year. Operation Eyesight provides life-changing eye care, such as cataract surgery and prescription eyeglasses, to those in need.

“It impacted me a lot and was a tradition we kept up with our two sons, who are now aged 22 and 25,” Lana says. “The impact is generational. It became something my kids looked forward to. Growing up, they appreciated seeing the impact on another kid their own age.”

The Gift of Sight is a way to celebrate the holidays by making a donation in the name of a friend or loved one and have a transformational impact in the life of someone who needs eye health care. When you give the Gift of Sight, you can select from a variety of greeting cards or eCards to announce your gift. Each physical greeting card comes with a gift tag and you can add a personal note.

“If you can’t see, then you can’t work and you can’t provide for your family, especially in many parts of the world where Operation Eyesight works,” reflects Lana. “Everyone who receives a Gift of Sight card or gift tag always appreciates such a unique present.”

THE WORLD’S MOST UNADDRESSED DISABILITY

Almost everyone on the planet will experience an eye health issue in their lifetime. Although 90 percent of vision loss is preventable or treatable, more than a billion people still don’t have access to eye care services to correct, treat or prevent vision loss.

“In communities where we work across sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, untreated vision loss often closes the door to getting an education – particularly for girls, who are disproportionately impacted by eye health problems,” explains Kashinath Bhoosnurmath, President & CEO of Operation Eyesight.

“In my years with Operation Eyesight, I’ve seen that the generosity of Canadians is much larger than the magnitude of avoidable vision loss. We are truly grateful to donors and

For a child like Mohammed, access to eye health care provides the gift of a brighter future. Visit operationeyesight.com/ GiftOfSight or call 1-800-585-8265.

supporters and the impact they have over the holidays and every day.”

Together, we are creating a world where quality, affordable and inclusive eye health care is available for everyone, everywhere. We are also improving people’s overall health and well-being, bringing local access to clean water and sanitation, and improving equality for women and girls.

THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

By giving the Gift of Sight, you can give a parent the ability to provide for their family and care for their children. You can give a child the opportunity to attend school, learn and thrive. You can give a senior the gift of independence.

Lana says she’s inspired by how the simple Gift of Sight has moved others in her community to get involved with Operation Eyesight, including her own kids.

“Both of my sons and niece were eventually inspired to volunteer with Operation Eyesight during high school,” she says. “It taught them to give of themselves and do something bigger than themselves.”

This holiday season, Lana says she will again be calling in another order of Gift of Sight cards.

Visit operationeyesight.com/GiftOfSight to donate today. Order your greeting cards before Dec. 15 to ensure they get delivered before Christmas.

New Year’s resolutions you might keep

By Jan Pierce M. Ed.

When January 1 rolls around, most of us look for fresh starts. This year we’ll lose weight, quit smoking or drinking too much, get along with family members and… the list goes on. Check in with folks on January 20 and most have either given up on their resolutions already, or have forgotten what they were.

Change doesn’t come easily. But what if we made some resolutions for 2023 that were things we really want to do, not just things we think we should do? What if we made a list of resolutions that we could actually look forward to trying? It might still take a bit of discipline, but it could be fun.

Here are four categories most of us can identify with. Let’s make it simple – something we can accomplish without gritting our teeth. Before we know it, we’ll have incorporated good habits into our daily schedules and stand proud as we say, “I kept my New Year’s resolution.”

Choose one or two items from each checklist or write your own. Give yourself permission to change your goal as the year progresses. Keep the goals simple and measurable. Celebrate at the end of each month if you’ve accomplished them.

N EXERCISE

• Spend 15 minutes outside each day

• Take the stairs and not the elevator

Monitor your daily step count. Set a goal and track your progress

• Ride your bike x times per week

• Take the dog for a walk x times per week

• Make a home exercise workout and do it while watching a TV show

N GIVING

• Volunteer once a week in your community

• Donate money regularly to a legitimate cause Send cards, letters or emails to loved ones

• Spend time with friends

• Pay it forward anonymously to those in need

• Visit a lonely person

• Clear out clutter and little-used items to local clearing houses

N RELATIONSHIPS

• Take time for coffee or lunch dates

Listen to a friend’s problems

• Do a kind deed for an acquaintance

• Give a compliment to someone at least once a day

• Overlook annoying habits

• Refrain from gossip or criticism

• Phone or visit an elderly friend or relative

N REDUCE STRESS

• Give yourself the gift of quiet each day

• Listen to music

• Make time to watch a favorite TV show or movie

• Plan a vacation to a place you’ve always wanted to go

• Declutter your living space

• Take a class – music, dance, art, cooking

• List the things you love and include them in your daily life

If you’re a paper and pencil person, you might enjoy tracking the progress for the items you select. When you are ready for a new challenge, feel free to move on to new goals. Setting simple, doable goals and achieving them is a satisfying experience. You’ll find the resolutions aren’t so hard to keep when you enjoy doing them.

Jan is an author and retired teacher. She is the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun: Unplugged Find Jan at janpierce.net.

What if we made some resolutions that we could actually look forward to keeping?

“Give yourself permission to change your goal as the year progresses.”

fight the winter blues with movement

Quick tips to help you stay active

By Cara Poppitt

Winter is here! It’s cold and snowy, the roads are icy, and maybe the last thing you want to do is go to the gym to workout on those freezing, cold days.

The truth is, the cold months can put us in a funk if we are not intentional about managing our schedules. When we fail to move our bodies and opt to stay inside, our mindset is negatively impacted. If you are unable to get into your car and drive to a studio for a workout, don’t let that stop you this winter. Keep moving to fight the winter blues. It’s cold outside, but you can stay positive by embracing activity into your everyday schedule!

Try to start small this winter by staying active inside and scheduling short blocks of movement within your

Celebrate your wins When you take time to congratulate yourself for what you accomplished instead of what you did not complete, your brain starts to focus on the positives and not the negatives. If you only have five minutes, give it your all and do a mini workout at

Get active with your kids Taking your kids tobogganing down the hill and then walking or jogging up the hill is a great workout. Skiing outside is amazing and skating on the ice is a physical and a mental release. You can also be active indoors with your kids – engage in a dance party to burn off energy, get moving and increase the positive vibes! Take note of where you can incorporate a bit of activity with your kids each day as it will all add up.

Try something new When we become bored, we are less likely to be motivated to try something new, so it’s important to keep your life interesting. Plan to try something new each month – whether it is a class, activity,

“When we fail to move our bodies and opt to stay inside, our mindset is negatively impacted.”

By Sharon Loose

Congratulations on your new baby! As a new parent, we always want to make sure our baby is the safest. We want to ensure we are doing everything right. It is often overwhelming to know how to keep our baby warm, but not too warm – and how to know what’s the safest way to do this, especially when we hear about all the rules and recommendations around sleep, swaddles, blankets, car seats, snowsuits, temperatures, and safety!

If we aren’t supposed to use loose blankets at night and we aren’t supposed to put our baby in a car seat with a snowsuit, then how do we keep them warm?

This is a question I get asked a lot in my newborn care classes. So, here are a few tips to keep your baby warm this winter season:

Keeping your baby warm at night without loose blankets

The recommendation is that babies should not have loose blankets in bed with them to reduce the risk of airflow and suffocation concerns. So as parents, we need to think of other ways to ensure our baby is warm enough at night.

Remember the “one layer more than you” rule. It’s recommended that your baby is in one additional layer than an average adult. However, keep in mind that you are using a comforter to sleep under when you are considering the number of layers for your baby. Since we are encouraged not to use a loose blanket in bed with our little ones, we need to consider utilizing a safe swaddle blanket or sleep sack to help you add a layer to your baby for warmth. You can also consider using a flannel sheet for additional warmth.

When we are considering what to dress our baby in for the night, we can include a onesie undershirt if the room is cooler and a footed sleeper to help them stay warm as well. If you notice that your baby has cold feet when you change their diaper at night, despite the footed sleeper, you can add socks – this will also help them stay warmer. You might also want to consider using a little hat for your newborn in the first few weeks after birth. Babies lose their heat from their head, so keeping their head covered can help them stay warm as well.

The recommendation for room temperature is between 20 to 21 degrees Celcius to keep your baby as comfortable as possible. So, consider your space – do you have an older house that keeps cooler, especially in

the winter months? If so, then you want to keep this in mind when planning for accommodations to ensure your baby’s warmth. Keeping them away from any draft or cooler air flow and utilizing the above tips will help you keep your baby warm.

An important note: If your baby has flushed cheeks, red ears or appears sweaty (especially on the nape of their neck) then you know that you have over dressed them. Although babies do not like to be cold, they also do not like to be too hot. So be sure to try and find just the right balance with all these options to get your baby to the perfect temperature at night.

Keeping your baby warm outside

When heading outside, first you (of course) want to consider the temperature outside. If it’s below freezing, consider the necessity of the activity, the length of your activity, and if your baby will be dressed warmly enough.

You will then want to consider the layers you need for your baby. Depending on the temperature outside, you’ll have to plan for the layers that will keep them warm. Adding a snowsuit, bunting bag or additional blankets can help them stay warm. Also, you will want to make sure that they have a warm hat and mitts.

Consider that your baby will become cold before you do. If you’re walking, you are moving and sweating. Meanwhile, they’re sitting in their stroller or car seat. They will become cold much sooner than you. Be sure to check their face, hands, and feet to make sure they are continuing to be warm enough for your adventure. A great way to help them stay warm is to wear them if possible. Utilizing a baby carrier and having them next to you can ensure that they’re able to use your body heat to help them stay warm, too.

When planning for how to keep your baby warm outside, be sure to also consider air flow quality. You do not want to cover their face with any heavy blankets. You should also not cover their stroller with any plastic cover that will restrict their air flow. Always use breathable materials to ensure their safety.

Using blankets made specifically for your car seat or stroller that attach away from the baby is also a great addition to help keep wind off the baby and allow them to stay warmer.

Important note: When placing your baby in a car seat, for safety reasons, it is essential that you do not layer them up in bulky clothing (coats, etc.) when securely fastened in the car seat. Doing so is unsafe because you must loosen the straps to accommodate these bulky layers, which will then make a space between your baby and the harness of the car seat. This increases the chance of injury in the case of an accident. Dress your baby warmly in safe, thin layers of clothing and then use specially designed, car seat-safe blankets on top of them once they are securely fastened into their car seat.

Rest assured, parents, that there are effective ways to keep your baby warm and safe both in your home and when you venture outside! Keep these tips in mind, and you can feel good about putting your baby to bed, traveling in the winter months, or even getting out in the fresh air for a good adventure.

Happy wintering, everyone!

Sharon is a certified doula and childbirth educator with 23 years of experience and has supported over 1,500 Calgary and area families on their parenthood journey. She is also the owner of Calgary Birth Essentials, which offers private and small group prenatal classes, birth and postpartum doula support, and breastfeeding and early parenting education. For more information, email sharon@ calgarybirthesssentials.com or visit calgarybirthessentials.com.

Heirloom storybook portraits

By Shelley Vandervelde

Shelley Vandervelde’s magical storybook portraits are truly unique, artistic, and have a timeless look and feel. The wall portraits and storybooks will be passed down to future generations with your children reading their books to their children – and one day, their grandchildren. Imagine them saying “that was me when I was about your age!”

The most often-asked questions people have when they see the fine art storybook portraits by Shelley Vandervelde are:

Are these paintings?

No, they aren’t paintings. Shelley uses the lighting style of the Old Master painters in her photography, giving her portraits a threedimensional look and feel. When printed on canvas, they feel even more like paintings.

Are these real children?

Yes, these are real children. The Art of Portraiture provides the wardrobe, or you can bring special outfits that may have been passed down in the family. Christening gowns, for instance, are perfect for photographing babies in The Night Before Christmas set with Santa.

Are the children photoshopped into the background?

No, these children enter a three-dimensional set. The back wall is typically a painted backdrop to provide depth. In front of the backdrop are silk plants, walls, animals, birds, butterflies, and a variety of toys

appropriate to the set with the sounds of the forest, farm, or Christmas music playing softly in the background.

Can we have our children photographed in this way?

Yes, you can book your very own session in your choice of sets. Your child(ren) will be guided through the session in a playful manner while Shelley, an internationally-acclaimed Master Photographer, captures the perfect moments for your wall portrait or storybook. These portraits are truly special – pre-book your session, as each set is available only once per year to a maximum of 10 families!

Infant Eye Care

Doctor’s Note:

An infant eye exam is an important step towards ensuring your child is seeing correctly and there are

eye health issues. Book baby’s eye exam with

optometrist now.

Visit infanteyecare.ca to learn more.

Dr. Jean Shen, Optometrist

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

no

your

creating connections

How to build your village

By Stacie

Feeling like you are the only person in the world who is awake as you pace the floor all night with a sick baby in your arms?

Hiding in the dark pantry to cry alone after yelling at your kids because they’ve been bickering at each other for hours on end?

Wondering if you are the only one who has to repeat themselves 3,457 times to get your teenager to complete one simple task?

In all of this uncertainty, one thing is for sure –parenting can be isolating.

This is even more true after the social isolation that came with the COVID-19 pandemic. It is more important than ever to connect with other parents and share your experiences and knowledge.

Dr. Soraya Lakhani, registered psychologist and director of Yellow Kite Child Psychology, says as parents raise their children, they have to redistribute time and energy from other parts of their lives.

“This redistribution can result in parents having to suspend some of their own needs, including spending time with existing friends, making new friends, and engaging in activities that might bring them a sense of happiness, relaxation and connectedness,” she says.

“When people are overwhelmed and need support but feel a sense of shame in asking for help, that can lead to a sense of isolation. All parents struggle, yet many parents go through that experience feeling utterly alone, which is really quite heartbreaking.”

It takes a village

As cliché as it sounds, there is a reason the term ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ is so common – it’s true.

Chelsea Flemons found this out the hard way when she moved from Calgary to Fort McMurray for her husband’s job.

The mother of two girls, ages eight and four, says she didn’t know anyone in her new city, and she felt terrified, lonely and sad at the prospect of moving somewhere with no support system.

“But I had my girls and we were able to get out there and meet people together,” she adds.

“It’s really amazing how quickly it happens if you just put yourself out there a bit. I am the type of person that needs to get out and do things, so I knew if I didn’t make the effort, those negative feelings wouldn’t change.”

It's healthy for parents to be reminded that nobody has all the answers and it is okay to feel lost and need support.

“Having connections with other people in similar contexts can provide a sense of community,” says Dr. Lakhani.

“At the very least, it helps parents recognize that they aren't alone. And, of course, it can be a valuable forum for parents to exchange ideas, obtain resources, and discuss avenues they can pursue if they need support.”

Finding your parenting ‘tribe’ can be difficult and even awkward. It’s often compared to dating in that when you meet a new parent, you need to get to know them to learn if they are ‘your people’ – if you share the same interests, values, parenting styles etc.

“As with all relationships, when breaking the ice, be open to making the first move when initiating conversation with another parent,” advises Dr. Lakhani.

“Compliments are great, as are questions. For example: ‘I love your kid's XYZ’ and ‘Where did you get your child's XYZ?’ The parenting experience can be hugely varied, but

there are a lot of universals as well, and talking to another person who understands the joys and challenges of parenting already offers tremendous common ground.”

Togetherness through technology

Chelsea chose to make connections through social media.

“My very first step to making these connections was joining 'The Mommy Network' on Facebook in Fort McMurray,” she says.

“I simply posted that I am new here. I have two girls and would love to meet some new friends. The response was overwhelming. With some of the women I met up with, we connected instantly and have become very close since. I would consider them some of my best friends.”

Technology has kept up with this trend of moms turning to their phones and computers to connect. Social. mom and Peanut are two apps that are designed to be like dating apps for moms to help lonely parents connect with matches who live nearby.

Peanut is advertised as “the social network for women to connect across fertility and motherhood. Build friendships, find support and learn from one another,” while Social.mom “allows you to make friends with moms that live near you.”

Dr. Lakhani says the advances in technology meant to bring people together are great. “Parents should set themselves up for success and make formulating connections as easy as possible, in whatever way feels most natural and rewarding for them,” she says.

In-person parenting

If creating connections through social media and apps isn’t your thing, there is no shortage of organized faceto-face options. These activities include programs offered at local libraries, yoga, swimming lessons, music classes, gymnastics, dance classes and more.

While more organic connections can be made at the playground, while picking your child up from school, at local indoor play places and other outings where you might run into another parent with similar interests who lives near you.

No matter how you find them, building parenting connections couldn’t be more important for you, your spouse and your children.

“Feeling alone, overwhelmed, and isolated can take a significant toll on a parent's physical, emotional, and mental health,” says Dr. Lakhani.

“It can result in parents feeling burnt out and like they don't have the bandwidth to live life the way they want to. When parents are burnt out, it can impact their capacity to connect with their children and spouses. A lack of social connectedness can really reinforce the sense of being completely and utterly alone in navigating the parenting journey, and that can leave parents feeling taxed and exhausted, and with nowhere to go to unload or recharge.” CCM

Gaetz

“All parents struggle, yet many parents go through that experience feeling utterly alone, which is really quite heartbreaking.”

Education

Due to the pandemic, many kids have had a rough several years of learning and now it’s time to refocus on classroom interactions. Some younger children haven’t had time to experience the way a classroom normally works. How do they behave in a large group? What if they need help? What if they make a mistake? How responsive will the teacher be to individual needs? You can help your child take optimal advantage of their learning environment by teaching them some basic learning skills. Your child doesn’t have to be top of their class to enjoy learning and be a thriving, healthy part of their classroom.

Here are some tips to help your child be a proactive, happy learner:

Being prepared to learn Teachers notice when children come to school prepared to learn. They have the right school supplies. They have eaten breakfast. They have had enough sleep. They have brought back the permission slip for the class field trip. They have lunch money.

Yes, it’s a lot of work to keep up with your child’s activities at school. At some point, your child will need to take personal responsibility for these things, but not yet. Not when they’re young and are just learning how to manage responsibility. Be the parent who takes care of business and put your child in the best position to receive approval from the folks at their school.

By Jan Pierce, M.Ed.

the words get jumbled up and they fail to do the first direction correctly.

At home, your child can practice following directions and if they forget, teach them coping skills to try and remember. Listening and following directions are key skills in learning and the earlier your child can perform well in these areas, the better they’ll do on classroom assignments. Play a game in which you give your child two directions: “Go to the door and tap on it three times, then stand by the coffee table.” When your child can do two directions correctly, try for three. Keep adding until a mistake is made. Children can become quite adept at following directions using this method.

Knowing how to ask questions Here is a typical conversation in a first-grade classroom: Teacher: “Does anyone have any questions before we start our work?”

Student: “My hamster had babies last night.”

This interchange may bring a smile to your face, but it highlights the fact that many children don’t know the difference between statements and questions. They don’t understand the difference between appropriate

questions and those that are off task. Asking questions at the appropriate time and about the topic at hand is one of the most important skills a learner can master. It’s good to ask questions when you need information or clarification. It’s smart to ask good questions, but a child who hasn’t mastered the art of asking questions will be lost and without the information they need to do a good job.

At home, practice asking your child clear, concise questions. Ask your child, “What, exactly, do you need? And then prompt them until the question is clear to them. Vague questions from your child like, “How do I do this?” or statements like, “I don’t get it” leave the teacher wondering where to begin. When your child is asked a clear, concise question, you may receive a response like, “I understand how to write complete sentences using these words, but I don’t understand how you want me to change the action words.”

Knowing when to listen carefully Even the best student in the world can’t be on high listening alert all day. But successful students know when to listen carefully and this is one of the most important skills your child can learn. You can explain to your child that it’s vital for them to listen carefully when their teacher is giving exit directions before independent work times. These times usually come when the class is gathered, and a new subject is introduced. Before the children move to work independently in class, explicit directions are given. Good teachers usually leave written directions where their students can refer to them as they work.

Practice listening skills with your child When are the times you need your child to listen and remember? Help them see the difference between casual listening and focused listening when they need to act on the directions given.

Knowing how to follow directions It may seem easy to adults, but children often don’t know how to follow directions. Most directions given are sequential: “Get your paper, write your name at the top of the paper, then solve problems one through ten.” For some children, all

not making the grade?

How to help make tests a breeze

By Linda Silbert, Ph.D., and Alvin Silbert, Ed.D.

This is a common problem – we hear it often from parents. Here is a typical case, including our advice for this parent. We have made the advice general, so it can be useful to you if your child is a ‘poor test taker’ too.

“My daughter does well on her homework, studies for hours, and then does poorly on tests. She’s not a good test taker. Is there anything I can do to help her?”

There are many strategies children can learn to help them do well on tests. You can assist your child by finding which strategies are most likely to help them. A good place to start is to go over the tests with your child so you can find out together what is causing them to do poorly on them. If necessary, you may find it helpful to include your child’s teacher or another educational professional in this process.

Here are the ten most common causes of what may be called ‘poor test taker syndrome’:

1 Vocabulary You may find that your child didn’t understand the questions on the test because they didn’t know the meaning of some of the key words. It is surprising how often kids get confused because they do not know commonly-used words. For example, a ninth grader brought one of their failed tests to us. One question was about a hermit who lived on a secluded island. Because they didn’t know the meaning of two key words, hermit and secluded, they answered the question as if it was about a hermit crab.

This may sound preposterous to you. Why? Because adults have amassed a huge vocabulary. Many of the words adults take for granted are missing from that of children at this stage of their development, like ‘hermit’ and ‘secluded.’ In the future, while your child is learning a subject, it is a good idea to check in with them to make sure they are familiar with the key vocabulary words. If your child gets into the habit of looking up words they don’t know and understand, they may be more successful on future exams. If they ask you about a word they don’t know, tell them the meaning or the spelling of the word; let them know that you’re a great resource.

2 Concepts If your child memorizes a list of facts while studying for a test, they may not understand the concepts behind the facts. One way to reinforce the concepts children learn in school is to discuss them as a family during casual conversation, like during dinner, while driving to school, etc.

3 Language processing When your child hears or reads something, they may be perceiving the words but not the intended meaning. This is a little like not knowing vocabulary words, like ‘hermit.’ Language processing issues involve missing the meaning of phrases made up of simple words, each of which is well-known to the child. If this happens occasionally, your child should ask their teacher for help. If this happens often, your child may have a language processing problem and may need assistance from school personnel or a private learning specialist.

4 Learning style Your child may be studying in ways that are not compatible with their learning style. For example, your child’s most efficient learning style may require visual images, but their studying may consist of only reading their notes. Although they are putting in ample time studying by reading and rereading words, they may be learning little. They might do better making simple drawings, sketches, or scribbles, or your child can try using graphic organizers and strategies, so they can convert the text into images, which are easier for them to process. You need to identify your child’s learning style and help them learn how to study accordingly. To identify your child’s learning style, you may need to seek the advice of school personnel or a private learning specialist.

5 Memory Your child may go to sleep fully understanding the material they studied that evening, only to find out it is no longer there the next morning when they need to retrieve it during a test. The problem may be that they stop studying prematurely, before the material makes it from their short-term memory into their long-term memory. Getting information from short-term memory into long-term memory usually takes more time, practice, and repetition. The solution? Your child needs to study beyond the point they think they know the material. Also, they may benefit from learning additional memoryenhancing strategies.

6 Slow worker Your child may work or process information slowly, doesn’t complete an exam, rushes through an exam without reading or processing the questions, or panics and shuts down when taking an exam. They may need more time to complete an exam. Talk to your child’s teacher. Being permitted to continue for a few minutes after the bell rings or being allowed to come back for a few minutes during lunch, for example, may solve the problem.

7 Study skills Your child may have poor study skills and work habits. There are many ways to learn effective study skills, from reading study skills books to taking a study skills course to seeing a learning specialist for a few sessions on study skills. However, once your child learns how to study, it’s imperative that they use the study skills strategies in order to perfect them and make them a comfortable part of their study routine.

8 Writing Your child may have trouble with essay test questions because they have difficulty writing clearly. Does this describe your child? If given the opportunity, they would be able to choose correct answers from a multiple choice list or accurately answer the test questions verbally, but they cannot clearly articulate their thoughts in writing. If this is the case for your child, the problem is not that your child is a ‘bad test taker.’ Your child needs to work on their writing skills and/or be given the opportunity to take the test orally or using another assessment technique. As with other areas, there are many ways to learn effective writing skills, from books to taking a writing skills course to seeing a learning specialist for a few sessions on writing skills.

9 Mild learning disability If your child is failing tests, they may have a mild learning disability. If you suspect a mild disability, seek the advice of school personnel or a private learning specialist. If accommodations are needed that involve the school, they can be based on a casual agreement with the teacher or principal, or they can be more formal.

10 Anxiety Your child may be overly anxious. This may result from one or more causes, as described in this article. They might be putting too much pressure on themselves, you might unintentionally be putting undue academic pressure on your child, or your child might be afraid of the consequences of failing - like being grounded, for example, or their parents ‘going ballistic.’ Reducing anxiety is easier said than done. If this seems to be the issue, try to work it out as a family or consider taking your child to a counselor so you can all work together to unravel the cause of your child’s anxiety.

If your child is doing poorly on tests, don’t shrug your shoulders and say, “I guess they’re not a good test taker.” Instead, try to identify the reasons behind their poor test scores. Once you identify the cause(s), your child will be able to learn effective strategies to overcome or to compensate for them, and their test grades will improve, often dramatically.

Dr. Linda and Dr. Al have helped thousands of kids achieve school success by helping them learn how they learn, including overcoming anxiety, attention deficits, learning disabilities, and other obstacles that can prevent learning on their way to academic success. For more information, visit stronglearning.com.

Helping your child get school-ready. We help your child enjoy the fun of learning in our well-rounded preschool program!

SOCIAL SKILLS

Being kind and being aware of others’ needs Not every child will earn straight ’A’s in school. Yes, there are average students in every classroom, and that’s okay if a child is working to their potential. But some children seem more adept at building relationships and maintaining friendships than others. This is the child who notices when a friend is sad or needs to borrow a pencil. This is the child who shares with others and takes turns.

This child plays fair. They notice when a friend needs encouragement.

Don’t underestimate the value of social skills when it comes to success in the classroom. Your child may not solve every math problem correctly, but if they are a good friend and a kind, caring person, you’ve got a lot to be proud of and the classroom is enriched. Help your child notice when others seem sad. Guide them with ways to help, share, or show others that they care.

Practice: “Did you notice that Katie seemed sad today? I wonder if we could do something to cheer her up.” Or, “I like the way you share your LEGO® with your friends. Being a good friend is important in our family.”

Success in the classroom is more than achieving high marks on assignments. Just as in all of life, being a responsible, kind, and caring person is just as important as being the best at what you do. Give your child a boost by teaching them to master good classroom skills and watch them soar.

Jan is a retired teacher and the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun. Find her at janpierce.net.

2023 Education Guide

From Preschool to Post-Secondary Education Options

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

SCHOOL BOARDS

ALBERTA UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS Website: auarts.ca

AMBROSE UNIVERSITY Website: ambrose.edu

ATHABASCA UNIVERSITY Website: athabascau.ca

BOW VALLEY COLLEGE Website: bowvalleycollege.ca

CALGARY CATHOLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT 1000 5 Avenue SW Phone: 403-500-2000 Website: cssd.ab.ca

The Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD) is the largest Catholic school district in Alberta,

serving over 56,000 students in 117 schools located in Calgary, Airdrie, Cochrane, Chestermere, and Rocky View County. CCSD educates and empowers students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 through its mission of Living and Learning in our Catholic Faith, so that students centered in Christ, realize their full potential. Contact your nearest CCSD school to register. All families are encouraged to inquire.

CALGARY BOARD OF EDUCATION (CBE) Website: cbe.ab.ca

CONSEIL SCOLAIRE FRANCOSUD #295 - 6715 8 Street NE Phone: 403-686-6998 Email: infoconseil@francosud.ca Website: francosud.ca

FOOTHILLS SCHOOL DIVISION Website: foothillsschooldivision.ca

MOUNT ROYAL UNIVERSITY Website: mtroyal.ca

OLDS COLLEGE - CALGARY CAMPUS Website: oldscollege.ca

PALLISER SCHOOL DIVISION Website: pallisersd.ab.ca

ROCKY VIEW SCHOOLS Website: rockyview.ab.ca

SAIT Website: sait.ca

ST MARY’S UNIVERSITY Website: stmu.ca

UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY Website: ucalgary.ca

Calgary Classical ACADEMY

New

About us

The Calgary Classical Academy is a new tuition-free, public charter school opening September 2022 in the Bridgeland neighbourhood near downtown Calgary.

We offer an academically rigorous, traditional liberal arts education focused on nurturing a love of truth and beauty. Ours is a community of learning and friendship, in which we preserve the wisdom of the past, cultivate it today, and build upon it for future generations.

In our initial year, we will serve students in grades K-6, and will later expand to include all grade levels. The school welcomes all learners in the Calgary area who wish to seek moral, intellectual, and physical excellence.

Program Features

Academically rigorous education in the seven traditional liberal arts

Great books program centred on enduring works of art, literature, history, and philosophy from around the world

Character education and high expectations

Structured literacy and Singapore math

Smartphone-free environment

School uniforms

Committed to truth-seeking and free inquiry

Language programs including French, Mandarin, and Latin

Outdoor education program Classical fine and performing arts

ALTERNATIVE, CHARTER & PRIVATE SCHOOLS

BANBURY CROSSROADS SCHOOL

#201 - 2451 Dieppe Avenue SW

Phone: 403-270-7787

Email: general@banburycrossroads.com Website: banburycrossroads.com

Commemorating 40 years, Banbury Crossroads School is a Self-Directed Learning School from early childhood to Grade 12. It’s been founded on mutual respect and communication. What makes us unique is we teach and mentor each child individually. Gifted and self-motivated students thrive with us! Students plan their day and design their assignments depending on their interests and pace. Our atmosphere is relaxed, safe, and stress-free. In small multi-aged groups, we meet individual needs and help students to become self-sufficient while having the freedom to be themselves!

CALGARY ACADEMY

Phone: 403-686-6444

Email: info@calgaryacademy.com Website: calgaryacademy.com

At Calgary Academy, we design student-centered experiences that nurture a love of learning from Kindergarten to Grade 12. For over 40 years, we’ve refined our innovative Academy and Collegiate programs, woven together by our four pillars and guiding REACH principles, to empower unique learners to pursue a life of passion and purpose. With recent program additions, including Early Years for Kindergarten to Grade 3 and Blended+ for Grades 9 to 12, Calgary Academy helps students develop the independence, skills, and confidence to thrive through extraordinarily small class sizes led by expert teachers.

CALGARY CLASSICAL ACADEMY

231 6 Avenue NE

Phone: 587-943-6505

Email: info@calgaryclassicalacademy.ca Website: calgaryclassicalacademy.ca

The Calgary Classical Academy is a tuition-free, classical

charter school. We are serving Grades K to 6 in the 2022/2023 academic year, and plan to expand to offer Grades K to 8 in 2023/24. We offer an academically rigorous and traditional liberal arts education, equipping students with the virtues, knowledge, and habits befitting free citizens.

CALGARY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 2839 49 Street SW (Elementary campus)

Phone: 403-242-2896, Ext. 312

Email: admissions@calgarychristianschool.com Website: calgarychristianschool.com

A Christian, loving, and nurturing environment where your child’s imagination is stimulated through exploration and discovery. Calgary’s first independent faith-based school, integrating faith and learning since 1963. At Calgary Christian School, we believe in developing the whole child and providing the tools for each to be successful as they discover their place in God’s world. Intellectually - Emotionally - Socially - PhysicallyArtistically: These five pillars of excellence embrace the cornerstone of our spiritual foundation.

CALGARY JEWISH ACADEMY (THE)

Phone: 403-253-3992 Email: info@cja.ab.ca Website: cja.ab.ca

The Calgary Jewish Academy is an independent private Jewish day school, catering to students from nursery school to Grade 9. Our approach to education is based upon the morals and values set forth by Jewish heritage and tradition: teaching, learning, respect, leadership, and community. We deliver an innovative program and have a long-standing history of academic excellence. The Calgary Jewish Academy’s mission is to build community, character, and confidence within our students.

CALGARY WALDORF SCHOOL 515 Cougar Ridge Drive SW

Phone: 403-287-1868 Email: info@calgarywaldorf.org Website: calgarywaldorf.org

Offering preschool, kindergarten, and Grades 1 through 9. Central to Waldorf education is a deep respect for childhood. Our enriched curriculum is designed to meet children’s specific developmental needs. Movement and time in nature is built into every student’s daily rhythm. The Waldorf learning experience is hands-on, with low-tech classrooms. The arts – music, story, drawing, painting, and drama – are interwoven through all subjects. Students learn two world languages: French and German.

DALHOUSIE COMMUNITY KINDERGARTEN

Phone: 403-288-1050 Email: info@dcakids.com Website: dcakids.com

Kindergarten is our specialty! We are an independent Kindergarten program that has been in existence for over 40 years. Funded by Alberta Education, we offer small class sizes, an exceptional teacher, and unique learning experiences to support your child’s social, academic, and emotional development. We recognize each child’s individual learning style, and foster a love of learning. Parental input adds distinctive program enhancement. Half-day, M-F program. Limited Junior K spots. All inquiries are warmly welcomed.

GOLDEN HILLS LEARNING ACADEMY

Strathmore, AB

Phone: 403-934-5179

Email: learning.academy@ghsd75.ca Website: goldenhillslearningacademy.com

Grades 1 to 12, offering traditional home education, blended, and teacher-directed learning. Full-time, part-

time, or upgrading – with over 180 courses to choose from, we can find the right fit for you! Visit our website for more information on our programs. The freedom to learn, anytime, anywhere.

HERITAGE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (HCA)

Phone: 403-219-3201

Email: enrolment@hcacalgary.com Website: hcacalgary.com

At Heritage Christian Academy (HCA), students from our Early Learning Program (three or more years old) through to Grade 12 are encouraged to discover what they believe through academics, extracurricular, and everyday interaction with a biblical worldview. Opportunities in missions, music, athletics, leadership, retreats, and field trips provide shared experiences that build a strong community. Each student is encouraged to understand their identity in Christ and to become all that God created them to be, using their gifts and talents to serve others.

PHOENIX FOUNDATION (THE)

Phone: 403-265-7701

Email: info@phoenixfoundation.ca Website: phoenixfoundation.ca

Phoenix Education Foundation is an Alberta-accredited private, non-profit, independent school. Phoenix engages Kindergarten to Grade 9 students in parentdirected or school-directed programming to fulfill the Alberta Education curriculum. Phoenix offers Alberta’s only Kindergarten program for homeschooling families, BlendEd, and home education options for Grades 1 to 9, and ‘in-the-scene’ classes in the Creation Studio, giving students immersive instruction in Science, Math, Language Arts, Social Studies, and Fine Arts.

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 years old. To attend, a child must qualify for special education funding (Program Unit Funding (PUF)).

RIVER VALLEY SCHOOL

Phone: 403-246-2275

Email: info@rivervalleyschool.ca Website: rivervalleyschool.ca River Valley School is an inclusive independent school providing exceptional education and character development to children in preschool (age three) to Grade 6. Students are immersed in play, inquiry, and project-based learning that challenges them to question, explore, and create! Our adaptive model of educational delivery supports different learning styles to ensure that each individual student flourishes.

RUNDLE: ACADEMY, COLLEGE AND STUDIO

Phone: 403-291-3866

Email: contactus@rundle.ab.ca Website: rundle.ab.ca

Rundle is a private, post-secondary preparatory, co-ed, day school. Small class sizes, an enriched curriculum, a personalized learning environment, and diverse cocurricular opportunities are pillars of our three distinct academic programs: the College (K to 12), Academy (4 to 12), and virtual Studio (7 to 10). Our Academy and Studio programs specialize in teaching students with diagnosed learning disabilities with or without ADHD.

CAPTAIN JOHN PALLISER SCHOOL

1484 Northmount Drive NW

Kindergarten Enhancement & Out of School Care Gr. K-6

PRE-KINDERGARTEN AT HOPE LUTHERAN 3527 Boulton Road NW

Pre-Kindergarten for ages 3 – 5 years

MARION CARSON SCHOOL 5225 Varsity Drive NW Kindergarten Enhancement Out of School Care Grades K/1

SUNNYSIDE SCHOOL 211 – 7 Street NW

Pre-Kindergarten for ages 3 – 5 years Kindergarten Enhancement Out of School Care Gr. K- 6

PRE-KINDERGARTEN ACADEMY AT GENESIS CENTRE 7555 Falconridge Blvd. NE Pre-Kindergarten for ages 3 – 5

BRAESIDE SCHOOL 1747 – 107 Ave. SW Pre-Kindergarten for ages 3 – 5 years

STRATHCONA-TWEEDSMUIR SCHOOL (STS)

Phone: 403-938-8326

Email: admissions@sts.ab.ca Website: strathconatweedsmuir.com

Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School (STS) is a diverse community where students pursue lives of purpose, flourishing emotionally, physically, and intellectually. Situated on a 220-acre campus near Calgary, STS offers academic excellence and a strong sense of community from Kindergarten to Grade 12 as Alberta’s only independent International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum school. STS offers a rich learning environment where students can expect more, including small class sizes, integrated learning, over 90 co-curricular activities, a focus on health and wellness, city-wide bussing, and scholarships, all in unique, natural surroundings.

CHILD CARE

KIDS@ CHURCHILL PARK

Phone: 403-266-4656

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

Kids@ Churchill Park continues to be a leader in providing accountable, trust-based early learning and child care to Calgary families. With over 50 years experience and eight different programs in the city, we have options for everyone including part-time care, out of school care, and 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

Register your child today

MAPLE ROOTS OUT OF SCHOOL CARE

Phone: 403-200-1378

Email: info@maplerootsinc.com Website: maplerootsinc.com

We believe that children are inspired & engaged through child care professionals that support their development at an individual level. Maple Roots can provide the opportunities and emotional support to achieve these inspirations in a collaborative approach.

YW CALGARY

Phone: 403-232-1594

Email: childcare@ywcalgary.ca Website: ywcalgary.ca/childcare

YW Childcare is a safe and flexible daycare located in a new state-of-the-art center in Inglewood. Our licensed and accredited facility offers full-time, part-time, and drop-in spaces for children up to five years old. We believe in quality child care that encourages your child’s individual development, emphasizing creative play and child-centered activities. Register today online.

LANGUAGES: BILINGUAL & IMMERSION

ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE DE CALGARY

Phone: 403-245-5662

Email: info@afcalgary.ca Website: afcalgary.ca

Learning French is fun with Alliance Francaise! Whether your kids are complete beginners or can already converse in French, they will enjoy the friendly atmosphere and the diverse activities. Small group sizes allow for more interaction and the communicative approach will immerse

are available for children from three to 16 years and they are designed to develop fluency and confidence in French!

CALGARY FRENCH & INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Phone: 403-240-1500

Email: admissions@cfis.com Website: cfis.com

At CFIS, we start small – literally – with a play-based, licensed early childhood program for students as young as three. We are an independent, community-focused school for children from preschool to Grade 12. Our immersive French language learning environment inspires children’s unique curiosity and exploration of the world around them through International Baccalaureate, UNESCO and travel studies programming. By the time they graduate high school, our students are bilingual in French and English and speak fluent Spanish.

CONSEIL SCOLAIRE FRANCOSUD

#295 - 6715 8 Street NE Phone: 403-686-6998

Email: infoconseil@francosud.ca Website: francosud.ca

FrancoSud provides a Francophone education to more than 3,600 students across 15 schools in Southern Alberta, 11 of which are public and four are Catholic. We believe it is essential that our schools not only focus on academic success but also on the personal and social development of each student. Through cultural pedagogy, we allow students to build their identity, to define and recognize themselves as Francophones. All our schools offer full-day kindergarten and free bus transportation.

The Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD) is proud to provide a diverse range of programs, services and exciting learning opportunities, both in-person and online, to meet your child’s unique needs.

We strive to create a culture of faith, hope and love. Our talented and dedicated staff provide quality Catholic education, from kindergarten to Grade 12, in safe, nurturing and inclusive communities.

To register, contact your local Calgary Catholic school. All families are encouraged to inquire.

Students born outside of Canada will need to first schedule an appointment at the St. John Reception Centre by calling 403-500-2007.

Visit www.cssd.ab.ca for more information about our schools and our programs.

the wonders of winter –exploring science and nature with children

The snowy season offers tons of learning opportunities

By Ashley Frampton; photos courtesy of Ashley Frampton

Educators, families and caregivers… bundle up! Whether you enjoy winter or not, it’s time to embrace the snow and cold because this season comes with a ton of learning opportunities for children. From wildlife, to adaptations, to temperature changes and more – with curious children by my side, I have learned to love this season for what it has to offer. Here are some of our favorite scientific activities to explore in nature during the months of December to March!

A nature scavenger hunt is an active way to encourage children to look closely at how the world changes during the winter. There are lots of these readily available online and a quick Google search will find one that’s age appropriate for your littles. I especially love the visual version from @angelateachingmama on Instagram because it encourages kids to use their five senses when they are exploring their natural world. From years of teaching, I have noticed that when children are asked to slow down and look, listen, touch and feel, it develops their ability to ask good scientific questions, expands their vocabulary and even impacts their creative writing. While your kids are engaging in the hunt, prompt them with questions like ”have you ever noticed the way that icicles form?”, “I wonder why pinecones are closed up so tight in the winter?”, or “hey! Look how long your shadow is today!”

Now that you’ve gathered some nature items (pinecones, rocks, twigs, berries or leaves for example), this one will be easy. We love creating frozen nature sculptures using muffin tins or cake pans and filling them with water and our newfound treasures. Set the pans outside overnight and wake up the next morning to a beautiful child-made ice sculpture. You can also make these sculptures by filling balloons, and we’ve even used two cups of different sizes stacked inside of each other to create ice lanterns (see picture). My kids love trying to free the nature objects or observing how their creations change overtime as the ice melts.

Backyard bird feeders are one of the easiest ways to integrate observation skills and care for animals into your winter activities. And the best part? Since new birds come and go all season, birdwatching doesn’t really get boring like some other winter activities. Whether it’s chickadees or magpies, blue jays or woodpeckers, watching these beautiful winged creatures visit, and maybe even live in your backyard, is so exciting for kids. You can purchase feeders at your local department store or on Amazon, but we love creating our own using nature or recycled materials. Our favorite is a simple peanut butter and seed feeder using cardboard shapes or a pinecone. To extend this activity, have blank paper, a pencil and binoculars readily available and encourage children to record their observations over the season. They can even enter a citizen science program in your area where they can help with local bird monitoring and become little nature activists! Want to explore art outside this winter? Snowspray is super easy to make and encourages kids to get creative while they are outside playing in the snow. We buy spray bottles from the dollar store for under $3 each and fill them with water and a few drops of food coloring. Take them outside and experiment with abstract art, color mixing and more!

Finally, who doesn’t like when scientific explorations lead to a sweet treat? Making maple taffy is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Pack a layer of snow tight into a rimmed baking tray and place it outside (assuming it’s below zero, use your freezer if not). Meanwhile, take 1½ cups of pure maple syrup and bring to a boil in a small pot, until a candy thermometer reads 240o Fahrenheit. Cool for about five minutes, and then drizzle in six lines on the snow filled baking tray. Let sit for 30 seconds, then place a popsicle stick at one end, and roll up the taffy around the stick. Enjoy immediately. Making this taffy is so fun, with delicious results for your children, but remember they will need lots of adult support for this one, as it does involve the stove top.

The possibilities for scientific exploration during this frosty time of the year are endless, and the more exposure children have to the great outdoors in the cooler months, the more they will learn to love and appreciate it too. Not to mention, exploring nature in general allows children to develop skills like empathy, environmental stewardship,

problem solving skills and curiosity. For more of our favorite winter activities, be sure to follow me @teachthemlittle on Instagram and Facebook!

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 at school. For more ideas, follow her on Facebook and Instagram @teachthemlittle.

preparing for a parent-teacher conference

By Calgary’s Child Magazine

Long before you meet, you and your child’s teacher have a mutual goal: the success of your child. Parent/ teacher conferences are an integral part of your communication with your child’s school. Conferencing not only provides the opportunity to share a wealth of information about your child, it also helps to create a partnership with the teacher that will assist your child through their most formative years.

A parent-teacher conference can be intimidating and you may feel a great deal of apprehension, especially if this is your first time or you are meeting a new teacher. Calgary teacher, Jim Baxter, explains, “As adults, we may not be aware of the fact that we bring our past experiences with us to the parent-teacher interview process, but we do.”

One would hazard a guess that some of the parents who do not show up for these school-scheduled events are harboring negative feelings based on their own schooling memories. This is unfortunate, because this is a wonderful opportunity to make that all-important personal connection.

“Perhaps parent-teacher conferences should be called ‘team meetings’ to reflect the feeling that we are all on the same side with the focus on student learning,” says Jim.

The most important step before your conference is to talk to your child. Do they have any concerns or questions? Is there anything bothering them at school that they don’t feel comfortable asking for help with? What is their favorite class, least favorite, etc.? The more information you can share with your child’s teacher (i.e. social, medical or family concerns), the better. Make sure you are prepared to make the most of your time with the teacher.

Joan Craven, educator and author of Help! School Starts in September, offers these question suggestions for a successful parent-teacher conference: Is my child meeting your expectations?

• How does my child get along with the other children?

• What is my child’s self-esteem like?

• Is my child continually having difficulties? If so, what specialists have been consulted?

• Who are my child’s friends?

• Does my child complete all of their assignments?

• Are the assignments completed to the best of my child’s ability?

• Is my child cooperative in class?

• Does my child volunteer answers?

• Does my child work well in a group setting? Do they contribute in a positive way?

• Does my child come to class prepared to work?

Does my child come for extra help? Is extra help available?

• What can I do to help?

At the end of your parent-teacher conference, review with the teacher what has been said. Include any plans that require a follow-up either by note, phone, or another appointment. Remember that any concerns that arise need to be kept in perspective. Let your child know they have their teacher’s support. But most of all, let your child know you believe in them. CCM

Take care of your child’s vision and eye health with a visit to the optometrist—a trained professional with specialized equipment. Book your family’s eye exams now.

Visit ChildrensEyeHealth.ca to learn more.

Dr. Tamara Maillot Delong, Optometrist

“Some vision issues need correcting by age 8, or vision loss can result.”

“The most important step before your conference is to talk to your child.”

Childhood is an adventure, welcome to Calgary Waldorf School.

LYCÉE INTERNATIONAL DE CALGARY

Lycée international de Calgary is the city’s premier private French school (preschool to Grade 12). We are the only school in Calgary to teach the French Ministry of Education and Alberta Education curricula, offering students a unique bilingual education. No prior French experience needed to enroll in our preschool, kindergarten, and French Language Intensive Program

ÉCOLE DE LA MOSAÏQUE

199 Martindale Boulevard NE

Phone: 403-277-2344

Email: lamosaique@francosud.ca Website: lamosaique.francosud.ca

KING’S KIDS PRESCHOOL

Phone: 403-285-4855

Email: preschool@kingskidsfoundation.com Website: kingskidsfoundation.ca

We are a non-profit, community-based preschool with Christian values offering an affordable and well-rounded program for children from 33 months to five years old. We believe that a balance of child-directed and purposeful play helps children grow and develop.

PRESCHOOLS - NORTHWEST

ÉCOLE DE LA ROSE SAUVAGE

2512 4 Street NW

Phone: 403-230-3112

Email: rosesauvage@francosud.ca Website: larosesauvage.francosud.ca

ÉCOLE DU NOUVEAU-MONDE

220 Scenic Acres Drive NW

Phone: 403-910-3851 Email: nouveaumonde@francosud.ca Website: nouveaumonde.francosud.ca

ÉCOLE TERRE DES JEUNES 3720 42 Street NW

Phone: 403-247-2458

Email: terredesjeunes@francosud.ca Website: terredesjeunes.francosud.ca

EDELWEISS PREPARATORY SCHOOL

600 Northmount Drive NW

Phone: 403-282-4220

Email: info@edelweissprepschool.ca Website: edelweissprepschool.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.

FUN 2 LEARN PRESCHOOL

5511 Baroc Road NW (in Dalhousie Community Church)

Phone: 403-239-2033

Website: fun2learnpreschool.com Phone: 403-880-6711

Our preschool has been established for more than 30

years. We offer a learning through play program for three- to five-year-olds, offering two, three, and five halfday programs. Caring, qualified teachers (two teachers per class) provide a happy, stimulating environment for children to learn and play. We offer a non-volunteer program, but parents are always welcome in our bright and cheerful classroom. We supply a healthy snack and water. The facility is equipped with a large gym, where we play games and use a variety of gym equipment for the last 15 minutes of every class. A subsidy program is available.

RIVER VALLEY SCHOOL

Phone: 403-246-2275

Email: info@rivervalleyschool.ca Website: rivervalleyschool.ca

River Valley School is an inclusive independent school providing exceptional education and character development to children in preschool (age three) to Grade 6. Students are immersed in play, inquiry, and project-based learning that challenges them to question, explore, and create! Our adaptive model of educational delivery supports different learning styles to ensure that each individual student flourishes.

PRESCHOOLS - SOUTHEAST

ÉCOLE DE LA SOURCE

360 94 Avenue SE

Phone: 403-255-6724

Email: lasource@francosud.ca Website: lasource.francosud.ca

ÉCOLE NOTRE-DAME-DE-LA-PAIX

809 Willingdon Boulevard SE

Phone: 403-271-5544

Email: ecolendp@francosud.ca Website: ndp.francosud.ca

TOT SPOT PRESCHOOL

1507 Acadia Drive SE

Phone: 403-271-8894

Email: info@totspotpreschool.ca Website: totspotpreschool.ca

Located in Lake Bonavista, our bright and spacious preschool offers play-based programs that enrich your child’s learning process through thematic, fun activities. Your child will benefit from targeted learning spaces and participate in a wide variety of activities daily: sand play, building materials, water play, books, listening center, puzzles, crafts, play dough, stories, songs, gym, and imaginative play. Our teachers have Alberta certification and 70 collective years of teaching experience. Come check us out!

SUMMIT START

Phone: 403-477-5437

Email: hello@summitstart.ca Website: summitstart.ca

PRESCHOOLS - SOUTHWEST

ÉCOLE

SAINTE-MARGUERITE-BOURGEOYS

4700 Richard Road SW

Phone: 403-240-2007

Email: ecolesmb@francosud.ca Website: smb.francosud.ca

LEARNING ADVENTURES PRESCHOOL (AT CALGARY

exploration and discovery. Calgary’s first independent faith-based school, integrating faith and learning since 1963. At Calgary Christian School, we believe in developing the whole child and providing the tools for each to be successful as they discover their place in God’s world. Intellectually - Emotionally - Socially - PhysicallyArtistically: These five pillars of excellence embrace the cornerstone of our spiritual foundation.

THINK SUN PRESCHOOL ACADEMY (THE)

10 5555 Strathcona Hill SW

Phone: 403-240-4466 Website: thethinksunpreschool.com Educating preschoolers for 32 years, The Think Sun Preschool offers an enriched learning program including art, music, play, and intro-French. The playroom is a vital part of the program and is where your child will develop social, decision-making, and independent judgment skills and have fun while learning. Your child will graduate as a confident learner prepared to read and write, ready for Kindergarten. Registration is ongoing. In person tours available.

PRESCHOOLS - MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

CITY OF CALGARY PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS

Village Square Leisure Centre, Southland Leisure Centre, Inglewood Bird Sanctuary

Phone: 403-366-3900 (Village Square)

Phone: 403-648-6555 (Southland) Website: calgary.ca/preschool

Register in person at Village Square or Southland Leisure Centres. Preschoolers love to be active - they run, jump, sing, leap, 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 to four years old, promote learning through play, crafts, stories, and educational themes using a variety of resources and amenities under the guidance of our experienced instructors.

FUELING BRAINS ACADEMY (FORMERLY KIDS U)

Seven locations in Calgary, one in Strathmore

Phone: 403-258-0498

Email: info@kidsu.ca Website: fuelingbrains.ca

Fueling Brains Academy is an award-winning daycare and preschool that accepts infants and children up to kindergarten-age. We offer parents a safe, clean, caring environment with a strong educational program, based on the latest in brain development research. Our learning environments encourage the wonderment of play, physical movement, and social interaction. Our educational approach integrates right brain, left brain, and movement learning into a program designed to build strong, healthy, whole-brain children. There are seven locations in Calgary and one in Strathmore.

KALEIDOSCOPE KIDS PRESCHOOL

Three locations

Phone: 403-547-1020

Email: office@kalkids.com Website: kaleidoscopekidspreschool.com

We offer Preschool and Jr. Kindergarten programs for children ages three and four. Since children explore, discover, and learn through play, we offer an enriched environment for this exploration. Our programs include music and movement, gym time, crafts, sand/water tables, numerous play-based centers, and much more! For more information, visit our website. Voted Best Preschool by parents in the 2018, 2019, and 2020 Parents’ Choice Awards.

MY KINDERHOUSE PRESCHOOL

Four locations

Phone: 403-975-0103

Email: icontact@mykinderhouse.org Website: mykinderhouse.org

A unique, innovative, and integrative approach to early childhood education for children ages two to five featuring literacy, math, STEM, arts education, nature play, and outdoor stewardship. Our program combines the best of the early childhood methods of Montessori, Reggio, and Gardner Multiple Intelligences Theory. Small class sizes, qualified and experienced staff, beautifully appointed classroom environment, and a comprehensive and enriched curriculum are hallmarks of our approach. Our integrative education program prepares children for life! Visit us today.

PRE-KINDERGARTEN

EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

Sunnyside School: 211 7 Street NW

Captain John Palliser School: 1484 Northmount Drive NW

Marion Carson School: 5225 Varsity Drive NW

Hope Lutheran Church: 3527 Boulton Road NW

Genesis Centre: 7555 Falconridge Boulevard NE

Braeside School: 1747 107 Avenue SW

Phone: 403-605-2988

Email: Register@PreKindergartenEd.com Website: Pre-KindergartenEd.com

Programming includes pre-Kindergarten, half-day Kindergarten Enhancement, and out of school care. Please check the website and choose the school location for specific programs available. Pre-Kindergarten is a threeto five-year-old program combining play with learning. We nurture emergent literacy and each class includes music, large motor movement opportunity, circle time, and center time in our well-equipped and child-centered

active at the Y. Our play-based curriculum introduces children to physical activity, literacy, mathematics, and science. A fun way to build physical literacy, friendships, and get school-ready! Register for a full or half-year!

PRESCHOOLS - OUTSIDE OF CALGARY

ÉCOLE BEAUSOLEIL

70 Ranchers Meadows, Okotoks

Phone: 403-995-1160

Email: beausoleil@francosud.ca Website: beausoleil.francosud.ca

ÉCOLE FRANCOPHONE D'AIRDRIE

1165 Ravenswood Drive, Airdrie

Phone: 403-948-6995

Email: efairdrie@francosud.ca Website: efairdrie.francosud.ca

ÉCOLE NOTRE-DAME DES VALLÉES

132 Quigley Drive, Cochrane

Phone: 403-851-0244

Email: ecolendv@francosud.ca Website: ndv.francosud.ca

FUELING BRAINS ACADEMY (FORMERLY KIDS U)

Seven locations in Calgary, one in Strathmore

Phone: 403-258-0498

Email: info@kidsu.ca Website: fuelingbrains.ca

Fueling Brains Academy is an award-winning daycare and preschool that accepts infants and children up to kindergarten-age. We offer parents a safe, clean, caring environment with a strong educational program, based on the latest in brain development research. Our learning environments encourage the wonderment of play, physical movement, and social interaction. Our

educational approach integrates right brain, left brain, and movement learning into a program designed to build strong, healthy, whole-brain children. There are seven locations in Calgary and one in Strathmore.

MY KINDERHOUSE PRESCHOOL

Four locations

Phone: 403-975-0103

Email: contact@mykinderhouse.org Website: mykinderhouse.org

A unique, innovative, and integrative approach to early childhood education for children ages two to five featuring literacy, math, STEM, arts education, nature play, and outdoor stewardship. Our program combines the best of the early childhood methods of Montessori, Reggio, and Gardner Multiple Intelligences Theory. Small class sizes, qualified and experienced staff, beautifully appointed classroom environment, and a comprehensive and enriched curriculum are hallmarks of our approach. Our integrative education program prepares children for life! Visit us today.

SUMMIT STEPS

Phone: 403-477-5437

Email: chestermere@summitsteps.ca Website: summitsteps.ca

ASSOCIATIONS, INCLUSIVE PROGRAMMING & SUPPORT

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 only a problem in one eye. Because 80 percent of learning is visual, annual comprehensive eye exams with your doctor of optometry are recommended and children’s eye exams

are covered by Alberta Health. Use ‘Find an Optometrist’ on our website to find a doctor close to you.

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

CALGARY PUBLIC LIBRARY

Phone: 403-260-2600 Website: calgarylibrary.ca

DISCOVERY PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

2224 20 Avenue NW Phone: 403-818-0371 Email: discoverypsych@shaw.ca Website: discoverypsych.ca

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. We provide targeted support in literacy, numeracy, and executive functioning for each student while also covering the full Alberta Education curriculum in small classes and a supportive environment. A wide range of year-round programs and services are open to the broader community, including assessments, individual instruction, social skills programs, recreation, and more.

GRIT CALGARY SOCIETY

Phone: 403-215-2444 Website: gritcalgarysociety.com The G.R.I.T. program is a non-profit home and

community-based early childhood program for young children with disabilities.

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), as well as for those who live, play, and work with them. The Network is a collaborative group which fosters action towards meeting the needs of people with LD/ADHD. This non-profit operates through Foothills Academy and is supported by the Calgary Foundation. We're here to help!

NEW HEIGHTS SCHOOL & LEARNING SERVICES

2521 Dieppe Avenue SW

Phone: 403-240-1312

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

Our K to 12 school was created for students who have autism spectrum disorder or similar learning differences such as sensory integration difficulties, impairments in social interaction, and difficulties with emotional control and interpersonal skills as set out in each student's IPP.

SHELDON PSYCHOLOGY GROUP

1909 17 Avenue SW

Phone: 403-618-8288

Email: info@sheldonpsychology.com Website: sheldonpsychology.com

THE WELLNESS STUDIO FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS CARE Website: thewellnessstudio.ca

WOODS HOMES

Phone: 403-299-9699 Email: askus@woodshomes.ca Website: woodshomes.ca

Wood’s Homes is a children’s mental health center that provides treatment and support for children, youth and families with mental health needs. We are a non-profit organization and have been working with families since 1914. If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to us.

reading is good

Cozy up on the couch and read a chapter book aloud

By Little Red Reading House

Outside, it’s snowing and gray and so very cold. It’s also a Sunday morning, and it would be too wonderful to stay in your socks and pajamas and quilts, and cuddle up together on the couch. Think of that scene in Cat in the Hat when the children stare out the window longingly –except in your case, the adults are home and you do have something to do. You can have a winter chapter book readaloud!

So many of us think about bringing books to the beach over summer, but the living room sofa in winter is an equally perfect place to lose yourselves in a book and build a reading routine. In fact, more and more families are discovering how great it is, especially in the colder months, to read chapter books aloud together – just like some teachers do with the class.

Chapter book ‘readalouds’ are done best in any way that suits your family: a few minutes here and there during the busy week or on cold weather afternoons –or longer stretches at the same time every week, like those snowy Sunday mornings. Take your time. Enjoy the story and these moments together.

Remember that reading a chapter book as a family is great for children of all ages – even those who can and love to read on their own as well. Depending on your child’s reading level and interest, you may want to take turns reading aloud or mix reading together and reading separately.

Tips for reading chapter books as a family

• Practice ‘OWL’ when reading with your kids: Observe, Wait and Listen.

Instead of ‘testing’ your child’s knowledge, make it fun and ask open-ended questions that relate to your child’s experiences.

• When your child is telling you something about the book, even if you already know what they’re talking about, let them finish what they’d like to say and share in their enthusiasm. Making connections in chapter books can be pretty exciting for young readers.

• The ‘language of books’ is far more complex than our everyday conversations. Check in and see if you can help explain a word that might be new to your child.

GREAT CHAPTER BOOKS TO READ TOGETHER

Pax

and Pax Journey Home by

With beautiful illustrations, two moving voices and a heartwarming, contemporary tale of what it means to be a friend, this is a terrific book for children of all ages. Pax was nominated for the National Book Award.

The Princess Bride by William Goldman

A favorite film for many of us adults, it’s an equally touching novel that can take your children on a fairytale adventure like no other. With so many funny, loveable and courageous characters, The Princess Bride is even better read aloud.

Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo

Your family can spend the winter in Florida with Opal, a girl who leaves the supermarket with a dog, and so begins a summer vacation making friends and collecting stories. A funny and heartwarming story about forgiveness and finding a way through loss, this is a New York Times bestseller sure to be a keeper. Look for DiCamillo’s other books!

My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett

If you loved the story of Elmer Elevator’s journey to Wild Island to rescue a baby dragon – and the delightful retro illustrations – your children are sure to love My Father’s Dragon too. A cherished story that keeps even the youngest listeners engaged, this is a Newberry Prize winner sure to become a childhood favorite. Gannett has a whole series!

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

Sarah Pennypacker

“Enjoy the story and these moments together.”

it’s winter time, and the

TRAIL Kids is a not for profit organization accredited by the Alberta Government and mandated to support children with exceptional and diverse learning needs.

Children are screened and assessed to determine whether they are eligible to receive free Government support for developmental areas deemed important to success in early learning and beyond.

Children and their families work with a specialized learning team to develop knowledge, skills and attitudes that foster success.

take a holistic view and highlight the importance of children’s physical, social, cognitive, creative and emotional skills and how these qualities complement and interact with one another.

LOVE LIVE TO

New post-natal workouts

Moms, bring your little cuties for a fun workout and playtime at a Recreation centre near you.

calgary.ca/register