CityParent – Greater Toronto Edition – January 2026 by Media Classified

GTA Edition: Includes Halton, Peel, York, and Durham Regions | FREE

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January 2026

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PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER Leo Racioppo leo@mediaclassified.ca CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER John Racioppo john@mediaclassified.ca EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mary Racioppo

y r a u jan

contents

EDITOR Amanda Pereira

FEATURE

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Curious kids:

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How parents can raise healthy eaters

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Tips when traveling with pets

Smilezone Foundation – Bringing joy to kids across Canada

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FEATURE

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR Hannah Yarkony GRAPHIC DESIGNER Yvonne Poon

2026

Columns Editor’s Note ...............................4 Creative Things........................8 Cool Stuff ..................................14 Story Spotlight ......................16 Book Shelf ...............................20 Travel .............................................22 Featured Stuff ........................23 Movie PIcks ............................27 Mind Games ..........................28 GTA Edition: Includes Halton, Peel, York, and Durham Regions | FREE

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January 2026

PARENT Stuff

Mompreneur:

Melodie Reynolds, founder of Elate Beauty – Where conscious choices meet clean, radiant confidence

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EDITOR’S NOTE

up front

A FRESH START FOR FAMILIES January carries a quiet kind of energy. The holidays wind down, the house settles, and for a moment, everything feels slightly out of rhythm. This year, that shift hit me harder than usual. Our family spent the fall moving two homes into one. Boxes everywhere, labels that made sense one day but not the next, and moments where it felt like we owned more tape than actual belongings. We finally got the keys, blended our spaces, and barely caught our breath before the holiday season arrived. Trying to prepare for celebrations while learning which drawer now holds the forks felt like a comedy of errors. And yet, in all that chaos, I remembered why January matters so much. The leftovers disappear, the schedules return, and we wobble between excitement and exhaustion as we step into a new year. In that in-between space sits something powerful. A reset. A breath. A chance to shift gears without the noise of December. Parents often jump straight to resolutions, but most of us know how that story ends. Big promises burn out fast. Real change grows through tiny habits that fit into a family’s real life. Five extra minutes of listening before rushing to the next task. A slower response when tempers rise. A willingness to let the morning run a little off beat rather than fight every small battle. These choices seem simple,

but they carry more weight than any sweeping plan to transform everything at once. January reminds us that perfection is not the goal. Our kids do not need flawless parents. They need parents who show up with genuineness, who admit when they are tired, who pause before reacting, and who model what it looks like to try again after a rough moment. Presence beats perfection every time. If last year felt heavy, you are not alone. Many families ended December stretched thin and craving a reset. The beauty of January is that we do not need to rewrite our lives to feel steadier. We can set softer, more realistic intentions. More shared meals, even if they are quick. More books, more hugs, more small rituals that help everyone feel grounded in this blended, ever-evolving home. Find ideas to lighten your mental load, routines that work in real households, and reminders that parenting is not a performance. It is built in the simple moments we often overlook. As we step into a new year, may you give yourself room to grow without pressure and space to rest without guilt. Here is to a January filled with intention, connection, and easy wins that make family life feel a little lighter.

Mary Racioppo Editor-In-Chief, City Parent

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CITY PARENT | January 2026

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L O C AT I O N • H O S P I TA L I T Y • VA L U E

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FEATURE

curious kids

HOW PARENTS CAN RAISE HEALTHY EATERS Parents face no shortage of challenges when raising their children. Some challenges are overcome easier than others, but one that tends to have more staying power than most is the difficulty some parents experience as they try to get their children to eat healthy diets. A 2024 poll from C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital found that 27 per cent of parents of children between the ages of three and 10 indicate their youngsters don’t like healthy food and more than half indicate their kids are picky eaters. Such responses underscore the challenges parents face as they attempt to raise healthy eaters. Despite those challenges, many parents have met with considerable success in their efforts to raise healthy eaters, and various strategies can facilitate those efforts.

them to pitch in during meal prep can make them more excited about mealtime regardless of what’s on their plate. UCLA Health notes there are a range of kid-friendly meal preparation tasks. Kids can wash fruits and vegetables in the sink, tear leafy greens and even measure ingredients as they get older.

Recognize that being picky at the dinner table is normal It’s undeniably frustrating for parents when kids are picky about their food, but childcare experts note such behaviour is normal. The Children’s

Hospital of Philadelphia note that children across the globe go through a phase marked by picky eating between the ages of two and four. So, parents can make a concerted effort to remain patient if kids suddenly become picky about what they eat. Most grow out of the phase soon enough. Remain patient when presenting healthy foods Just as patience is paramount when navigating the picky eating phase, it’s important to remain so when introducing new foods like vegetables and other healthy fare. The CHOP notes that studies have found kids may not accept new foods until it’s been offered as much as 15 times, so parents must remain patient if the nutritious foods they’re offering are new to kids’ diets. Invite kids to choose and prepare meals Giving kids some agency over what they eat and asking

Visit a local farm Some kids may be more excited to eat healthier foods like fruits and vegetables after visiting a local farm and seeing where the foods are grown. Parents can start by visiting farms that grow healthy foods that kids are more likely to eat, such as strawberries and blueberries. A day spent picking apples in the fall also might encourage youngsters to eat more fruit. Limit dinner table distractions Distractions at the dinner table, like smartphones, tablets and toys that were not cleared away before sitting down to eat, can prolong mealtime, which can make kids less enthusiastic about eating. In a report from the CHOP, Dr. Katherine Dahlsgaard of the hospital’s Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences noted that kids get the majority of their calories in the first 20 minutes of a meal. Setting a happy, distraction-free tone at the start of a meal can get kids eating and reduce the chances they lose interest in what’s on their plate. A nutritious diet benefits kids in the short- and long-term. Though it’s not always easy to get kids to eat healthy, parents can employ various strategies to accomplish that goal. – Metro Creative

CITY PARENT | January 2026

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CREATIVE | THINGS

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FOR THE MOVIE BUFF LEGO® sets let fans recreate iconic scenes from the silver screen and relive unforgettable adventures.

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LEGO® Wicked Emerald City & Kiamo Ko Castle $79.99 (860 pieces)

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FOR THE TV SHOW FANS From streaming obsessions to cult classics, these TV-themed builds celebrate stories that bring people together from preschool play to primetime nostalgia.

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FEATURE

charity

SMILEZONE FOUNDATION – BRINGING JOY TO KIDS ACROSS CANADA WORDS BY MARYLENE VESTERGOM For parents, few places feel more daunting than a hospital waiting room. But thanks to one Oakvillebased charity, those spaces are being transformed into havens of colour, comfort, and joy – one Smilezone at a time. Founded in 2012 by former NHL player Adam Graves and local business owner Scott Bachly, the Smilezone Foundation has a simple but powerful mission: to make medical environments more welcoming for children. What began as a local initiative has now blossomed into a national movement, with 500 Smilezones completed across Canada. Each Smilezone is a thoughtfully designed space within a hospital, treatment centre, or mental health facility. These zones feature colourful murals, sensory play elements, interactive technology, and cosy seating areas – all designed to help children feel safe, supported, and free to be kids. 10 CITY PARENT | January 2026

“Our 500th Smilezone shows just how far we’ve come, and the real impact these spaces have on children’s health, happiness, and ability to heal,” says Bachly. “From colourful murals to sensory play areas, Smilezones are designed to ease stress and create moments of joy.” Sierra, 11, attends a Sons & Daughters group at Seasons Medical Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where she receives support following the death of her mother. “Sometimes I feel frightened to come to Seasons,” she shares, “but the bright colours and art make me feel better.” Sierra’s experience is just one of thousands. With the unveiling of its 500th Smilezone this time at Janeway Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre in St. John’s, Newfoundland, the Foundation celebrates a coast-tocoast presence in all ten provinces. “This milestone is a true reflection of what can happen when communities, donors, and partners unite around a vision of making

healthcare better for kids,” says Adam Graves. “Reaching 500 Smilezones is a proud moment, but it’s also just the beginning.” Smilezone’s impact reaches more than 400,000 children and families across Canada. Whether it’s a child undergoing treatment or a sibling waiting nearby, these zones offer a moment of relief, play, and connection. And while nothing can replace the comfort of home, Smilezones help make hospitals feel less intimidating and more like places of hope. Parents will be glad to know that Smilezones aren’t just about aesthetics – they’re designed with therapeutic intent. Sensory tools like bubble tubes and tactile panels support children with diverse needs, while interactive elements like iPads and gaming systems offer distraction and delight during long waits or procedures. The Foundation continues to thrive thanks to an incredible wave

of community support. From the sweet success of the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie campaign to generous backing from BMO Financial Group, and meaningful partnerships with the NHLPA’s Goals & Dreams fund, Toronto Rock, and Hamilton Sports & Entertainment Group, every effort adds up. Events like the 11th Annual Celebrity Golf Tournament have also played a big role, bringing people together for a great cause and making a real difference. For Oakville families, Smilezone’s story is one of local heart with national reach. It’s a reminder that small teams with big dreams can make a lasting difference – especially when that dream is to help kids smile through life’s most challenging moments. To learn more about Smilezone Foundation or to support their work, visit smilezone.com. cityparent.com

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FEATURED | STUFF

FRESH STARTS BEGIN IN THE KITCHEN WITH

HAMILTON BEACH

After the festive whirlwind fades, there’s nothing like a clean slate – and it all starts in the kitchen. From vibrant smoothies and energizing morning juices to crisp salads and quick, wholesome meals, Hamilton Beach Canada helps make those healthy intentions easy (and delicious) to keep. With a focus on smart design, trusted performance, and everyday simplicity, meet the Hamilton Beach essentials that make hitting “reset” in 2026 a breeze.

The Hamilton Beach® Personal Creations™ Blender with Travel Lid Blend, go, and enjoy! This compact personal blender lets you create smoothies, protein shakes, and blended drinks right in the jar you take on the go. Featuring a travel lid for easy portability and simple controls, it’s perfect for busy mornings, postworkout refreshments, or a quick healthy boost anytime. $39.98 available at walmart.ca | For recipes like Acai Power Smoothie Bowl visit hamiltonbeach.ca

The Hamilton Beach® Smoothie Blender Whip up delicious smoothies, frozen drinks, and more with ease! This versatile blender features powerful blending, simple controls, and a durable design, making it ideal for everyday use. Perfect for creating refreshing fruit and veggie blends, protein shakes, or creamy frozen treats for the whole family. $22.99 available at canadiantire.ca | For recipes like Green Apple Smoothie visit hamiltonbeach.ca

The Hamilton Beach® Stack & Snap™ Prep made simple. The Hamilton Beach® Stack & Snap™ 10-Cup Food Processor takes the hassle out of food prep with its easy, no-twist assembly and intuitive design. Perfect for slicing, shredding, chopping, or pureeing, it features a spacious 10-cup bowl, powerful motor, and stainless-steel blades that handle everything from crisp veggies to hearty dough. With dishwasher-safe parts and stack-and-snap convenience, it’s the ultimate time-saver for effortless, everyday cooking. $84.98 available at walmart.ca | For recipes like Cranberry No-Bake Energy Bites to Mediterranean Cauliflower Rice, visit hamiltonbeach.ca

The Hamilton Beach® Easy Clean Juice Extractor Start your day with fresh, vibrant juices effortlessly. The Hamilton Beach® Easy Clean Juice Extractor features a wide chute for whole fruits and vegetables, a powerful motor for smooth extraction, and an innovative easy-clean design that reduces prep and cleanup time. Ideal for nutrientpacked smoothies, morning juices, and refreshing drinks, it brings convenience and healthy inspiration to your kitchen routine. $119.99 available at bestbuy.ca | For recipes like Vitamin-Rich Apple Beet Lemon Juice visit hamiltonbeach.ca

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January 2026 | CITY PARENT 13

COOL | STUFF

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COOL THINGS Compression Packing Cubes by Lumesner Lightweight, multi-size packing cubes simplify packing and unpacking and fit any suitcase. Compression design saves up to 60% space, letting you pack more without added bulk. Durable polyester, tear-resistant mesh, and smooth two-way metal zippers ensure longlasting use, easy access, and organized travel essentials every trip. $28.99 available at amazon.ca

Momcozy KleanPal Pro Baby Bottle Washer – Sterilizer & Dryer This all-in-one baby bottle washer delivers hands-free cleaning with automatic washing, steam sterilizing, and drying. Its 26 powerful spray jets ensure every corner is thoroughly cleaned, while the dual-layer rack fits baby bottles and wearable pump parts. Choose from nine cleaning combinations, including a 19-minute Quick Wash. Keep items sterile for up to 72 hours with purified airflow and an H13 HEPA filter. Includes a 1-year warranty and 60 Momcozy washing tablets. $319.99 available at amazon.ca and bestbuy.ca

LA ROSÉE Paris La Rosée reminds us that skincare shouldn’t stop at the face – our whole body deserves mindful care. The French B-Corp brand creates clean, effective, and sensory-rich products made without endocrine disruptors, respecting both skin and planet. Their formulas, made with up to 100% natural ingredients, replace ineffective moisturising washes and creams with genuinely nourishing care that keeps skin soft and healthy all year long. Perfect Shower Ritual Cleansing Shower Oil – $31 Ultra-Mild Extra Rich Soap – $11 Refillable Nourishing Body Scrub – $40 (refill – $34) Nourished, Hydrated, and Radiant Skin Moisturizing Body Cream – $43 Nourishing Care Oil – $46 Available exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart 14 CITY PARENT | January 2026

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disability

Through individualized special education instruction, we enable each student with a learning disability to succeed.

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January 2026 | CITY PARENT 15

STORY SPOTLIGHT

nurturing curiosity

DON’T TRUST FISH IS THE PICTURE BOOK YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOU NEEDED In a market overflowing with nature books for children – many earnest, many educational, and many interchangeable – Don’t Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson makes a sharp, hilarious left turn. What begins like a traditional field-guide introduction to the animal kingdom quickly unravels into one of the most delightfully absurd picture-book experiences of the year. With deadpan wit from Sharpson and brilliantly mischievous illustrations from Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat, this book earns its place not just on recommended reading lists but in the pantheon of picture books that both children and adults will want to reread again and again. The premise is simple, yet genius: our narrator calmly explains mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians using the standard rules we all know from school. But when the book reaches fish, those rules suddenly stop working – because fish, according to the narrator, “don’t follow any rules at all.” From here,

JUST THE FACTS Don’t Trust Fish Written by Neil Sharpson and Illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat Penguin Random House Canada Ages 3-7

16 CITY PARENT | January 2026

readers are pulled into a playful, escalating conspiracy in which fish are presented not as graceful, gliding creatures but as cunning, suspicious, slippery beings who may very well be plotting something beneath the surface. Sharpson’s writing shines in its pitch-perfect delivery. The humor is dry, straight-faced, and wonderfully exaggerated, pairing kernels of real fish biology with wildly creative leaps of imagination. Children will giggle at the idea of fish holding secret underwater meetings or disguising themselves to avoid detection. Adults will appreciate the parody threaded through the narrative, poking fun at paranoia, fear of the unknown, and the human tendency to project wild theories onto the natural world. Santat’s illustrations are the ideal partner to Sharpson’s text. At first, Santat offers scientifically styled, almost textbook-realistic diagrams. But as the narrator grows increasingly distrustful, the visual narrative shifts: shadows deepen, fish develop shifty eyes, and scenes become dynamic, cinematic, and deliciously over-thetop. Santat’s ability to move between stylistic modes – straightforward, humorous, and atmospheric – adds layers of sophistication to the reading experience. What elevates Don’t Trust Fish beyond a simple comedic romp is its underlying message. Beneath the silliness is a subtle reminder to

question assumptions, to separate fact from imagination, and to recognize when fear has overtaken reason. There is even an unexpected twist near the end that reframes the entire narrative through a new, tender perspective – one that children will find surprising, and adults will find quietly profound.

Ultimately, Don’t Trust Fish is not truly about distrusting fish at all. It’s about curiosity, perspective, and the wonderfully strange way children make sense of the world. Clever, fresh, and beautifully illustrated, it’s a standout picture book that invites laughter, conversation, and a second look at the creatures swimming just out of sight.

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mompreneur

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BOOK | SHELF

WHAT’S UNDER THE COVERS THIS MONTH

The Snow Thief Written by: Alice Hemming Illustrated by: Nicola Slater In The Snow Thief, Squirrel experiences snow for the first time – and loves it! But when the snow mysteriously vanishes, Squirrel suspects a thief. With help from Bird, he learns about seasons and change. Ages: 4-8 Published by: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky. Pages: 32 Price $28.99

Friendship is my Superpower Written by: Alicia Ortego Young Lucas learns that true friendship goes beyond fun – it’s about kindness, support, and standing by each other. As he navigates challenges, Lucas discovers how to set boundaries, resolve conflicts, and build strong, healthy relationships. Ages: 4-8 Published by: Slickcolors Inc. Pages: 34 Price: $15.99

The Three Canadian Pigs: A Hockey Story Written by: Jocelyn Watkinson Illustrated by: Marcus Cutler The pigs are finishing hockey practice when the Big Bad Wolf shows up, calling them Canadian bacon – and lunch! Joined by Bear and Moose, tensions rise until the pigs propose settling things the Canadian way: a hockey game! Who wins? Bring on the poutine! Ages: 3-6 Published by: Sleeping Bear Press Pages: 32 Price: $23.99

Life Skills for Amazing Kids Written by: Hayden Fox This fun, practical guide for kids teaches essential life skills – from managing emotions and making smart choices to cooking, handling emergencies, and saving money. Packed with engaging lessons, kid-friendly tips, and playful illustrations, it empowers young readers to be confident, capable, and ready for anything life throws their way! Ages: 6-12 Published by: Independently Published Pages: 133 Price: $14.95

Interesting Stories for Curious Kids Written by: Bill O’Neill Interesting Stories for Curious Kids is a fun-packed collection of wild facts, cool history, bizarre science, and strange-but-true tales that will wow your friends and keep you hooked! From talking parrots to TV-star pets, this book makes learning fun and exciting for curious tweens who love the weird and wonderful. Ages: 9-12 Published by: LAK Publishing Pages: 141 Price: $16.99

Raising Smart Inspired and Engaged Kids – Preschool Clues Written by: Angela C. Santomero Angela C. Santomero – creator of Blue’s Clues and Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood – reveals 11 researchbased strategies to help preschoolers thrive. Drawing from decades of experience, she shows parents and educators how to build confidence, empathy, and critical thinking through play, connection, and media – transforming everyday moments into powerful learning opportunities. Ages: Adult Published by: Touchstone Publishing Pages: 320 Price: $22.99

20 CITY PARENT | January 2026

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TRAVEL

family fun

FIRE AND ICE FESTIVAL DON’T JUST ENDURE WINTER, EMBRACE IT. FIND JOY IN IT. WORDS BY ANDREW HIND

Don’t just endure winter, embrace it. Find joy in it. Point your car toward Bracebridge, two hours north of Toronto for the annual Fire and Ice Festival. Now nine years in the running, Fire and Ice has become one of the most distinctive winter events in cottage country. Fire and Ice 2026 takes place on Jan. 31. As the name implies, the event includes elements of both ‘fire’ and ‘ice’. The ‘fire’ aspects include stunning performances by talented fire artists, firepits where you can warm yourself and roast marshmallows, and a spectacular fireworks display at 6 p.m. But its winter, so the ‘ice’ elements take centre stage. There are interactive ice displays perfect for taking selfies alongside ice skating at Memorial Park, and ice sculpture carvings. The centrepiece of the event, the attraction around which everything orbits, is the massive snow tubing hill. It’s like nothing you’ll have seen before.

22 CITY PARENT | January 2026

Bracebridge’s Manitoba Street slopes steeply down to Taylor Street, a hill that has pedestrians huffing as they browse the many stores in the downtown core. A decade ago, someone in town had the idea that this sloping street would make an ideal tubing hill if not for the cars. This idea inspired the first Fire and Ice event. Manitoba Street is shutdown for the day and covered with seventy-five truckloads of snow to create an artificial, 200-ft.-long tubing run, one of the longest in Ontario. Here, tubers scream in delight as they race down

Bracebridge’s main street with storefronts whizzing past on either side. Zipping down it is sheer exhilaration. While Fire and Ice festivities continue after dark, the tubing run closes at 5 p.m., so be sure to line up early (and often!). Attendees can look forward to a lineup of performances and live shows throughout the day, including buskers, singers, and The Great Canadian Lumberjack Show with demonstrations of mastery with the chainsaw and axe. It’s a long day of fun. Thankfully, there are plenty of food and beverage options to sustain you, including a

pancake breakfast and food trucks offering a range of flavours. Warm yourself with hot chocolate or satiate a sweet tooth with maple taffy. Adults can head over to the Bracebridge Hall for the all-day Biergarten. Of course, restaurants and cafes along Manitoba Street remain open as well for a sitdown meal. Tickets cost $8 per person when purchased in advance via the Fire and Ice App, or $10 at the event. Kids 5 and under are free. Visit fireandicebracebridge.com for additional information, including the location of parking lots in town and details on shuttle bus services.

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FEATURED | STUFF

PETIT LEM’S

VALENTINES COLLECTION GIVE THE GIFT OF LOVE Celebrating the sweetest kind of love just got even cuter with Petit Lem’s newest collection of matching PJ sets for moms and their minis. From bedtime stories to slow Sunday mornings, these pieces are made to elevate every cosy moment. Crafted from ultra-soft, 100 per cent organically grown cotton and available for babies, toddlers, big kids, and moms, they’re comfort everyone can feel good about. With two charming PJ styles and a cosy script “love” sweater in the mix, Petit Lem invites families to embrace togetherness – one heart at a time. All Over Heart Print – Sleeper - $32 | Toddler set from $34 | Kids’ set from $40 | Women’s - $78 Hearts and Stripes on Poplin: 1 pc - $50 | Toddler set from $55 | Kids’ set from $55 | Women’s - $88

Sweater Collection: Sleeper - $30 | Kids’ - $48 | Women’s - $70

petitlem.com cityparent.com

January 2026 | CITY PARENT 23

FEATURE

plan ahead

TIPS WHEN TRAVELLING WITH PETS Travelling with pets can be a rewarding experience that enables individuals to share new adventures with their companion animals. Bringing pets along on vacation has become quite popular. According to Top Dog Pet Travel, a central Florida agency specializing in pet-friendly bookings, there has been an uptick in people travelling with their pets since 2024. A report from the American Pet Products Association indicates 22 per cent of both cat and dog owners reported taking their animals on at least three flights in 2024. Although travelling with pets can be fun and cuts down on costs for pet

boarding or alternative care, it also requires careful planning to keep pets safe, comfortable and free from stress throughout the trip. These practical tips can make travelling with pets a smooth experience, whether one is travelling by car, plane or just off on a weekend getaway. Plan ahead Research any pet regulations and restrictions prior to traveling. Some hotels, airlines and rental properties have specific rules or fees for pets. Always confirm if companion animals are allowed, and determine if there are restrictions on size, breed or the number of pets. Every airline has different rules for in-cabin versus cargo travel for pets. International travel may require certain vaccinations or quarantine periods, so it pays to start planning well in advance. Visit the vet A checkup with the pet’s vet is a good step prior to any trip. The vet will make sure the animal is current on vaccinations and well enough to travel. Getting a copy of the pet’s medical records and vaccination schedule is helpful, as some airlines or destinations may require it. Also inquire about medication for motion sickness or anxiety, if necessary. Bring familiar items Animals like consistency and routine. Keeping familiar items nearby can help reduce anxiety in unfamiliar environments. Bring along food, bowls, leashes, and preferred toys or bedding.

Stick to routine Give the pet time to adjust to the new surroundings and adhere to the same meal, walk and play schedules the animal is accustomed to at home. Regular feeding helps avoid stomach upset, as does bringing bottled water or water from home. Pack some patience Even the most well-behaved pet may act out a little when in unfamiliar territory. Also, it’s possible to encounter individuals who may not be as amenable to sharing surroundings with pets. Pets will take emotional cues from their owners, so projecting calm can be beneficial. Travelling with pets is becoming increasingly popular. Planning ahead and working with pet-friendly venues can ensure that everyone in the family enjoys some time away. – Metro Creative

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Enter Online cityparent.com January 2026 | CITY PARENT 25

FEATURE

start planning

SUMMER CAMP TIMELINE FOR FAMILIES TO FOLLOW Midwinter may seem like an odd time for families to begin thinking about summer camp, but parents with a history of arranging summer camp experiences for their children know spots typically fill up long before the first day of spring. Many summer camps limit the number of campers they accept, so it pays for families to familiarize themselves with a typical camp timeline so children’s summers can be as memorable as possible. January and February Families can begin researching summer camps once the holiday season has ended. If that seems early, this timeline reflects the growing demand for summer camps and the competition to secure a spot in a desired camp before it fills up. The American Camp Association estimates that more than 26 million children enroll in summer camp each year. That statistic underscores the demand for summer camp and suggests the competition for spots could be significant. By researching potential options in January, families can identify their camp preferences and then go from there. Research conducted in January and February can be used to determine budget. The cost of summer camp varies widely, and parents who know how much they can afford to spend on camp can use that budget to whittle down their options. February also is a good time to consider summer travel plans. Some camps charge by the week, which means parents might not have to pay camp fees during those weeks when they will be on vacation with 26 CITY PARENT | January 2026

password prior to registration, which is especially important if spots in the camp are limited and fill up quickly.

their children. If camps won’t charge camper fees during weeks when families are on vacation, parents may be able to afford more expensive camps. Parents can use this period to identify fee structures at their preferred camps.

beforehand if that’s a prerequisite for registration. If registration is completed online, confirm the URL in advance of registration day. Visit the website in advance as well. Doing so can allow you to create a user ID and

May and June Camp officials will likely reach out sometime during this period to welcome campers and let parents know about any supplies their children will need once camp opens. Some may offer orientation sessions during this period, and families can attend such meetings together so children can get acclimated to the campgrounds prior to the first day of camp. Visiting the site prior to camp opening can be especially helpful for first time campers who may have some anxiety about going to a new place. Tens of millions of children make lasting memories at camp every summer. Parents who know the typical summer camp timeline have a better chance of securing a spot at a camp their children will enjoy. – Metro Creative

March Some camps begin registration in March, while others may make paperwork necessary for registration available at this time. If registration begins in March, parents are urged to identify precisely when that process begins and exactly what needs to be done to ensure they can register their child. Secure all necessary paperwork prior to registration and ensure it’s completed and submitted cityparent.com

MOVIE | PICKS

JANUARY 2026 MOVIE PICKS FROM OLD CLASSICS TO MODERN DAY HITS The Shaggy Dog (1959 original & 2006 remake) Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, RKO Pictures A young boy named Wilby Daniels accidentally becomes involved in a magical spell that turns him into a sheepdog. The film follows his adventures as he navigates life as a dog while trying to keep his secret from his family and friends. Along the way, Wilby learns valuable lessons about responsibility, friendship, and the importance of being himself.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules – (2022) 20th Century Fox The second installment in the popular children’s series by Jeff Kinney. It follows Greg Heffley as he navigates the challenges of middle school, particularly his complicated relationship with his older brother, Rodrick.

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The Big Green – (1995) Walt Disney Pictures, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures An inexperienced soccer team of misfit kids is coached by a new teacher from the United States who is trying to make a difference in their lives. As the team learns about teamwork, perseverance, and friendship while navigating challenges on and off the field, the film captures the humorous and heartwarming moments of childhood sports and the growth of its characters.

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (2014) – Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures Alexander is a young boy who wakes up to a series of unfortunate events that leave him feeling frustrated and upset. From losing his favourite toy to facing mishaps at school and with friends, Alexander’s day goes from bad to worse. January 2026 | CITY PARENT 27

MIND GAMES

COLOUR ME Get out your pencils or crayons and make this winter canvas come to life!

28 CITY PARENT | January 2026

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Visit our website

WINTER | FUN PROUDLY CANADIAN! The Cartier Place Suite Hotel has been honoured with hospitality awards throughout the years and has a three Green Key ecorating. This family-owned and -operated hotel is a favourite among families, located in downtown Ottawa and is within walking distance of Parliament Hill, Byward Market, and major sites. Our pet-friendly hotel is situated between the Rideau Canal and trendy Elgin Street. The hotel has 250 one- and twobedroom family suites, each suite features a kitchen, separate bedrooms, combined living/dining area with private balcony. Guests may also enjoy the private outdoor garden patio, shuffleboard court, indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, exercise room, playroom and playground. Once you stay with us, you’ll know why guests return time and time again. suitedreams.com

1.800.236.8399

suitedreams.com

CONSERVATION HALTON Explore a magical winter wonderland at Winterlit! Offered at Mountsberg Conservation Area on select evenings from December 31, 2025 to February 16, 2026. Wander two illuminated trails featuring sustainable art installations, relaxing at cozy fireside lounges, learning all about Mountsberg’s resident animals at ‘The Den’, taking home your very own wood-branded souvenir, and more. Add-on activities available like Art in the Park, to help support our Animal Care Fund; Discover Owls, a meet-and-greet with an owl at the Raptor Centre; Stargazer Hikes, guided astronomy sessions with binoculars provided; and fun Nature Nerd trivia games! For an extra-special New Year’s Eve or Valentine’s Day, come out to Enchanted Evenings, featuring live music and entertainment, a licensed bar, and an add-on beeswax candle-making activity. Get your tickets today. conservationhalton.ca/winterlit

CITY OF RICHMOND HILL Make a splash this holiday season at the Richmond Hill Wave Pool! Perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking for fun and relaxation, the Wave Pool offers warm water, gentle swells, and exciting waves for all ages. Kids can play, teens can ride the waves, and adults can unwind in a safe, supervised environment. With accessible facilities, plenty of seating, and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s the ultimate indoor water escape. Whether you’re looking to burn energy, enjoy some family time, or just relax, the Wave Pool is your go-to destination for fun, laughter, and memorable moments. RichmondHill.ca/WavePool

SAFARI NIAGARA Looking for a wild adventure close to home? Safari Niagara invites families and animal lovers to experience an unforgettable day of discovery, excitement and fun. Located in the heart of Stevensville, Ontario, Safari Niagara is home to more than 1,000 animals from around the world – including majestic lions, towering giraffes, playful gibbons and fascinating reptiles. Visitors can connect with wildlife like never before through interactive animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours and daily keeper talks that inspire curiosity and conservation. Safari Niagara is more than a zoo – it’s a full-day adventure park! Kids can splash in the Safari splash pad, climb and play in the Kids’ Adventure Zone, or soar above the park on the SkyQuest ropes course. With paddle boats, picnic areas and on-site dining, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. As a proud, family-owned park, Safari Niagara is dedicated to education, animal care and environmental stewardship. Only 10 minutes from Niagara Falls. info@safariniagara.com | safariniagara.com 30 CITY PARENT | January 2026

905.382.9669

safariniagara.com

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Snow many reasons to build immunity! Kids Elderberry + Vitamin C helps soothe cough, cold and flu symptoms so kids can feel their best all season. Available in a delicious natural blueberry flavour.

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Open year-round, your Toronto Zoo is always a great place to visit, with something for everyone to explore, learn and enjoy! Fall in love with some of your favourite animals surrounded by picturesque scenery, situated in the heart of the beautiful Rouge National Urban Park. All winter long you can explore the Zoo with 10km of walking trails and nearly 3,000 animals. Grab a hot chocolate or visit one of our five indoor tropical pavilions to warm up! Visit torontozoo.com for upcoming events and to plan your visit today!