A Big Splash Safety Bash!
Free swims and water safety demos at Lions Pool on Thursday, July 23, from 4 to 8:30 p.m.
Kick off the night with a free Swim to Survive family session, then enjoy public swims with quick water-safety demos.
Explore interactive booths and build your water-smart skills, all in one cool poolside celebration.
Lions Pool is located at 159 Felan Avenue
Learn swim safeTY
National Drowning Prevention Week is July 19 to 25
Drowning is the second-leading cause of preventable death for children in Ontario. Water safety saves lives:
• Register in swimming lessons
• Take part in drop-in swims to build confidence and skills
• Borrow life jackets from Oakville Public Library branches Visit programs.oakville.ca for more information. I alwaysSafely!swim I always swim safely!
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TERMS AND INDEMNIFICATION
PARENT
Stuff
FEATURE
Olive Green: Books and recipes
FEATURE Health:
Mompreneur: Graydon Moffat – founder, Graydon Skincare STORY Spotlight
Why World Cup fever is the perfect time to talk about kids’ soccer safety
Canadian author of the month: Canada: we are the story
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up front MY HAPPY PLACE
There’s something magical about summer in Canada, and for me, that magic comes alive at Friday Harbour Resort in Innisfil, Ontario.
As soon as the warmer weather arrives, life seems to shift into a different gear. The days become longer, the sunsets linger a little later, and every weekend feels like an opportunity to create memories with family and friends. While much of my year is spent meeting deadlines and planning future issues, summer reminds me to step away from the schedule and simply enjoy the moment.
One of my favourite ways to spend a summer day is out on the water. Whether we’re cruising across Lake Simcoe, or hopping on a Sea-Doo, there’s something about being on the water that instantly makes every day feel like a vacation. Of course, my idea of a relaxing Sea-Doo ride and my husbands are two very different things.
Every summer, I set out for a calm cruise around the lake, only to find myself clinging to my daredevil husband, who seems convinced he’s the Evel Knievel of Lake Simcoe. As he launches over every wake, I’m wondering if this is the day I’ll meet the fish I’m terrified of. Yet despite the screams, white knuckles, and promises of “just one more jump,” I always end up wanting another ride.
Back on shore, Friday Harbour offers everything I love about the season. Strolling along the boardwalk, enjoying
dinner overlooking the marina, and gathering with family and friends at some of our favourite restaurants has become part of our summer routine.
As the sun begins to set, the resort takes on a whole new energy. Live bands at the Pier provide the soundtrack to many of our summer evenings, drawing families, neighbours, and visitors together to enjoy great music by the water. There is something undeniably special about listening to live music under an open sky, watching the boats return to the harbour, and feeling the warm evening breeze off the lake.
We’re also fortunate to have what I truly believe is the best block at Friday Harbour. Our lively, friendly neighbours have become like family, turning ordinary evenings into unforgettable memories. After a day on the water, nothing beats gathering on our decks for Barry’s happy hour at 5, enjoying a cold beverage while the barbecue sizzles nearby. As the evening settles in, we light a fire, pull up our chairs, and spend hours laughing, sharing stories, and enjoying each other’s company.
Summer isn’t just a season – it’s a feeling. It’s the sound of music drifting across the marina, the sparkle of sunlight on the water, the warmth of a fire on a cool evening, and the people who make every moment more meaningful.
Mary Racioppo Editor-In-Chief, City Parent
OLIVE GREEN BOOKS AND RECIPES
Veggie Smoothie
Children rarely ask for vegetables. Olive Green changes that with a clever rhyme. She usually writes adorable picture books about friendship and offering a helping hand. Now, she brings that same observant fun to summer nutrition. This colourful veggie smoothie turns beets and pumpkin into a playful kitchen game. Parents and kids can blend a healthy, refreshing treat without relying on artificial syrups. It makes physical health just as important and fun as emotional health.
Fruit Smoothie
Supermarket shelves are crowded with artificial sugar. Olive Green prefers real ingredients for young readers. Known for her thoughtful stories about kindness, she brings that same spirit to the kitchen. This rhyming fruit smoothie recipe turns healthy eating into a fun afternoon activity. Children get to count blueberries and mix a bright rainbow. It provides a perfect excuse for parents and kids to share a quiet, refreshing moment together. Real fruit beats processed sugar.
health
WHY WORLD CUP FEVER IS THE PERFECT TIME TO TALK ABOUT KIDS’ SOCCER SAFETY
With the FIFA World Cup fever in the air, kids across Canada are glued to the action, studying the footwork, the speed, the celebrations, and maybe even imagining themselves on that field of play. It’s a perfect moment for parents to point out what young players don’t see: the preparation, discipline, and injury prevention habits that keep professional athletes healthy.
One of the biggest factors in youth soccer injuries is growth spurts. Girls tend to hit them earlier than boys, which means they also reach their peak injury ages sooner. And those rapid changes in height matter. A 2020 review in the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine found that the highest rates of lower extremity soccer injuries occur immediately after major growth spurts. “When bones lengthen faster than muscles and tendons can adapt, kids become more vulnerable to sprains, strains, and knee injuries.”
Sports medicine data shows clear patterns. Peak ankle injuries tend to occur around ages 13-15 in girls and 15-17 in boys, while peak knee injuries cluster around 14 in girls and 16 in boys. Girls also experience higher rates of ACL injuries, often associated with differences in hip strength, landing mechanics, and neuromuscular control. Boys, on the other hand, are more prone to muscle tendon overuse injuries, especially when training loads climb too quickly.
Dr. Alessandro Francella, a sport and exercise medicine physician at Toronto’s Cleveland Clinic Canada and part of the medical teams for Toronto FC and the Canadian Men’s National Soccer Team, says this is
WORDS BY MARYLENE VESTERGOM
exactly why preparation matters. “Watching professional soccer is really watching the results of the hard work put in behind the scenes,” he explains. “The ease with which they run, pass, and shoot is due to the hours and years of preparation, practice, and daily habits, diet, exercise, and sleep. The discipline required to reach the professional ranks is a lesson all kids can learn and apply not only to sport but to all aspects of their lives.”
When asked what kids can do to avoid injuries, Dr. Francella points to the routines he sees every day at the national level: long warm ups, dynamic movement prep, and careful progression into high intensity work. These aren’t optional, they’re essential. “Many injuries are a result of overuse,” he says. “If pain starts to persist during or the day after activity, it’s your body’s way of signalling that it may be time for rest.”
He emphasizes that overuse injuries drop dramatically when kids play multiple sports, not just soccer year round. Current recommendations from pediatric and sports medicine organizations include 1-2 rest days per week, playing on only one team per season, 2-4 months off per year from any single sport, and keeping weekly training hours no higher than a child’s age.
• Check the field. Pros play on a perfect field, but your field might have bumps or holes. Take a quick look before you start running at full speed.
Tips from the pros
And for everyone, the message is the same: the pros stay safe because of what they do before the whistle blows.
• Warm up like a pro. A few minutes of moving, stretching, and balancing helps you play better and stay safe. Move smoothly. Watch how the players land softly and change direction without wobbling. Helps to protect your knees and ankles.
FIFA has invested heavily in injury prevention research, and one of the most effective tools to come out of that work is the FIFA 11+ program. There’s a kids’ version for ages 13 and under and a youth/adult version for players 14 and up. Studies show it can cut injuries by almost 50 per cent. It’s simple, quick, and easy for parents or coaches to run before practices and games. Parents can find the full warm up program through FIFA’s official injury prevention resources.
• Drink and rest. Even the best players take breaks and drink water.
• Wear the right gear. Shin guards that fit and cleats that grip the ground help you stay steady and avoid injuries.
• Play fair. No heading for U11 and younger. Parachute Canada notes that most head injuries in kids come from accidental player to player contact, not the ball. Play safe.
Canadian author of the month
A poem by the renowned Ojibway author Richard Wagamese is beautifully transformed into a picture book by the talented Anishinaabe artist Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley. Thoughtful, healing, and filled with hope, Canada: We Are the Story showcases the incredible power of lasting identity and a sense of belonging.
“Listen. Can you hear the voices of the Old Ones speaking to you in a language you’ve forgotten?”
An Indigenous child faces a school assignment that prompts, “What makes you proud to be Canadian?” In search of the answer, they draw upon the strength of their ancestors. The comforting presence of their ancestors serves as a reminder that we are all in this together, just as we have always been – “every soul that has fallen head over heels in love with the spell of this country.”
This impactful and timeless poem by Richard Wagamese is illustrated through the perspective of an Indigenous child, brought to life by the enchanting artwork of Anishinaabe artist Mangeshig Pawis-
CANADA: WE ARE THE STORY
Steckley. As the poem resonates with a new generation of Indigenous children, it invites everyone to honour the past, discover belonging in the present, and envision a future in this land now known as Canada.
About the Author
Richard Wagamese was a celebrated Ojibway author hailing from Wabaseemoong First Nation
in northwestern Ontario, Canada. His popular novels include Indian Horse, which was a finalist for Canada Reads, won the first-ever Burt Award for First Nations, Métis and Inuit Literature, and was adapted into a feature film; as well as Medicine Walk. He also penned several highly regarded memoirs, such as For Joshua; One Native Life and One Story, One Song,
JUST THE FACTS
By
Richard Wagamese
& Illustrated by Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley
Published by Tundra Books
For ages 5-9
40 pages $24.99 Hardcover
Available on amazon.ca and Indigo/Chapters
Released on March 17, 2026
which earned the George Ryga Award for Social Awareness in Literature; along with a collection of personal essays, Embers, which was honoured with the Bill Duthie Booksellers’ Choice Award. Richard received numerous accolades, including the National Aboriginal Achievement Award for Media and Communications, the Canada Council for the Arts Molson Prize, the Canada Reads People’s Choice Award, and the Writers’ Trust of Canada’s Matt Cohen Award. Sadly, Richard passed away on March 10, 2017, in Kamloops, BC.
OTHER BOOKS BY RICHARD
WAGAMESE
One Drum Keeper’n Me
Starlight: A Novel
Embers
O Canada
5 UNIQUE FACTS ABOUT CANADA
Canada Day is a federal holiday celebrated annually on July 1. Canadians have much to celebrate come the first of July, and these are five things that make the Great White North unique.
1
. Canada is the second largest country in the world, with a total area of more than 9.9 million square kilometres. In fact, according to Worldometer, Canada takes up 6.1 per cent of the world’s land mass, making it just one of six countries across the globe to count more than 5 per cent of the global land mass as its own.
2
. Canadians love their maple syrup, and perhaps some love it a tad too much. The first season of the Netflix documentary series “Dirty Money” included an episode about the Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist. That theft, during which 3,300 short tons of maple syrup valued at nearly $18 million CAD were stolen from a storage facility over 2011 and 2012, is the most significant heist in Canadian history. The heist was discovered during an inventory of the Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers’ strategic reserve. During the inspection, an investigator realized several barrels at the facility were empty, prompting a wider investigation and realization of the scope of the crime. Various individuals were ultimately found responsible for the theft and sentenced to prison.
3
. Canada is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the east, the Arctic Ocean to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the west. That undoubt-
CANADIANS HAVE MUCH TO CELEBRATE COME THE FIRST OF JULY.
edly contributes to Canada having the longest coastline in the world. According to the World Population Review, Canadian coastline stretches more than 202,000 kilometres, which easily bests Indonesia, which has the second longest coastline at roughly 99,000 kilometres.
4
. Though it’s the second largest country in the world, Canada is the twelfth least densely populated nation across the globe. Estimates indicate that Canada’s population stood at around 41 million people in 2024. By comparison, the Japanese city of Tokyo is estimated to have more than 37 million people living in its metro area in 2024.
5
. Roughly two-thirds of the world’s polar bears call Canada home. According to Polar Bears in Canada, the global population of polar bears is divided into 19 subpopulations, and 13 of those are managed or co-managed by Canada. All told, roughly 16,000 polar bears reside in Canada, with just 10,000 residing beyond Canadian borders.
Canada Day is an annual celebration of the Great White North and a great time to consider the many things that make this beautiful nation so unique.
julyCOOL THINGS
Huggies Happy Hugs Infant Girl Romper 2-pack
Stay cosy and cute with these charming Huggies rompers! Made from breathable organic cotton and featuring delightful patterns, frilly sleeves, crew neckline, back button closure and elastic frilly cuffs.
$14.00 available at walmart.ca
Time and Tru Circular Handle Straw Basket Tote
The Time and Tru straw basket tote features a natural woven water hyacinth design, perfect for everyday use. With two comfortable circular handles and a spacious main compartment, it complements sundresses, denim, and casual outfits alike.
$29.00 available at walmart.ca
Rakuten
Kobo
Summer reading with Rakuten Kobo is a great way to explore new books and genres. With a vast selection of eBooks, you can easily find something that interests you, whether it’s a thrilling mystery, a heartwarming romance, or enlightening non-fiction. Enjoy the convenience of reading on your device, allowing you to take your library anywhere perfect for beach days or cosy evenings at home.
$179.99 - $499.99 available at kobo.com
Draw: Free the Creative Spirit
Draw: The Creative Prompt Card Deck features 90 beautifully designed cards, offering over 27,000 combinations to inspire creativity in both children and adults. It promotes divergent thinking and builds creative confidence, making it ideal for gifts, classrooms, and family gatherings. Aligned with Montessori principles, it supports open-ended, child-led learning, perfect for homeschooling and offline engagement.
$39.00 available on amazon.ca
Time and Tru Women’s Woven Mules
Time and Tru women’s woven mules add a touch of texture and a relaxed vibe to your daily wardrobe. Features a faux leather upper, a breezy woven pattern with a rubber outsole. These mules come with a closed, round toe and a convenient slip-on design for easy wear.
$29.00 available at walmart.ca
The Dyson Pencilwash®
The Dyson Pencilwash Ultra-slim features a 38mm handle for comfort and easy storage, weighing just 2.2kg for enhanced maneuverability under low furniture. It uses hydration, agitation, and extraction technologies with fresh water for cleaning, and includes hydration control for different floor types and stains. Its design allows for cleaning along walls and skirting boards. $449.99 available at dysoncanada.ca
George Baby Girls’ Ruffle One Piece Swimsuit
Made from soft tricot knit with a pique jersey lining for comfort, it features a crew neck, long raglan sleeves, and a half-zip for easy dressing.
$15.00 available at walmart.ca
George Toddler Boys’ Sport Sandals
Made from faux leather and polyester, with a durable rubber outsole, and three hook and loop straps for a secure fit. $16.00 available at walmart.ca
SHOW School
SEPTEMBER 19, 2026 • 11AM-3PM Sheridan College Conference Centre
SEPTEMBER 26, 2026 • 11AM-3PM Sheraton Parkway Hotel
mompreneur GRAYDON MOFFAT
– FOUNDER GRAYDON SKINCARE
REDEFINING BEAUTY THROUGH WELLNESS, TRANSPARENCY, AND SELF-CARE
In a world often captivated by the idea of perfect skin and the never-ending pursuit of youth, Graydon Moffat has carved out a unique niche with her skincare line, rooted in a philosophy that celebrates nourishment, selfacceptance, and holistic wellness. As the founder of Graydon Skincare, Moffat has emerged as a prominent figure in the clean beauty movement, crafting products that seamlessly blend nature and science while inspiring women to love their skin at every stage of life.
Moffat’s path to skincare is anything but ordinary. With a background as a yoga instructor and a holistic wellness advocate, she’s dedicated years to helping women foster healthier relationships with their
bodies. Throughout her journey, she observed the struggles many faced with body image and the changes that come with age. Having navigated
those challenges herself, she saw a significant gap between what women truly needed and what the beauty industry was providing.
“I’ve always been passionate about how people feel in their skin,” Moffat shares. “It became evident that while we all wanted to take care of our skin, the mainstream narrative around ‘antiaging’ often made us feel like our skin was something to fix.”
Determined to rewrite that narrative, Moffat set out to create skincare that honours the skin rather than shaming it. This vision led to the birth of Graydon Skincare – a Canadian brand founded on the principle that effective skincare should boost confidence, promote health, and encourage selfcare, rather than impose unrealistic beauty ideals.
Leveraging her experience as a vegan chef, Moffat approached skincare with the same care she applied to nutrition: prioritizing highquality, nutrient-dense ingredients that offer real benefits. By merging botanical actives with scientifically validated formulations, she crafted products aimed at nourishing, protecting, and enhancing the skin’s natural functions. Her philosophy revolves around creating multitasking formulas that are not only effective but also user-friendly, helping consumers streamline their routines.
March 2026 marked a significant milestone – the 10-year anniversary of the brand, and transparency
remains at its heart. Every ingredient is carefully selected with both effectiveness and sustainability in mind, showcasing Moffat’s dedication to ethical sourcing and eco-friendly practices. Graydon Skincare products are free from unnecessary fillers and harsh toxins, designed to be gentle and inclusive, catering to a diverse range of skin types and concerns. However Moffat’s influence goes beyond just product development; she’s become a passionate educator and advocate for clean beauty. Through workshops, speaking engagements, social media, and community outreach, she inspires consumers to look past marketing hype and make informed choices about their daily skincare. Her genuine approach and authenticity have fostered a loyal community of customers who appreciate both transparency and effectiveness.
Today, Graydon Skincare is thriving as a leader in Canada’s clean beauty scene. Yet, the brand stays true to the mission that sparked its inception: to help people feel comfortable, confident, and empowered in their own skin. By blending wellness, sustainability, and science-driven innovation, Graydon Moffat is demonstrating that beauty isn’t about reversing time – it’s about nurturing yourself in a way that feels healthy, meaningful, and sustainable for years to come.
graydonskincare.ca
Sainte Marie among the Huron, in Midland, is full of surprises. There’s no denying that the palisaded 17th century French mission (sometimes mistakenly referred to as a fort) is of immense historical significance, but it’s also a place where children – even young ones – can thoroughly enjoy themselves.
In 1639, Jesuit missionaries established a mission called Sainte Marie at the heart of the Wendat (Huron) domain, separated from the settlements of New France by 1000kms of wilderness. Sainte Marie served as headquarters for several missions established nearby, and was home to more than 60 priests, soldiers and craftsmen, representing one-fifth of the European population of New France.
Unfortunately, the French brought with them disease that decimated the native population and made the Wendat vulnerable to attacks by the Iroquois, their ancestral enemies. In 1648, the mission of St. Joseph was destroyed. A year later, fathers Jean de Brebeuf and Gabriel Lalemant, along with dozens of Huron, were killed at the mission of St. Ignace. Rather than await the assault they knew was sure to follow, the inhabitants of SainteMarie burned the mission and fled.
After extensive 20th century archaeological and historical research, the mission was recreated and opened to the public.
Within the palisades, you travel back in time to the 17th century as
family fun RISEN FROM THE ASHES: SAINTE MARIE AMONG THE HURON
WORDS BY ANDREW HIND
you venture through more than a dozen buildings, including living quarters, a cookhouse, carpentry shop, a hospital, smithy, and others.
My daughter, who attends a Catholic school, felt a sense of reverence within the Church of Saint-Joseph while looking upon the graves of the martyred Brebeuf and Lalemant. The weight of history of a different kind can be felt when viewing original excavated foundations which represent some of the oldest stonework in Ontario.
Views of the Wye River from atop the bastion are picture-perfect. Your kids will likely want to race you to the top.
The First Nations perspective isn’t forgotten. Visit the longhouses,
wigwam, and Indigenous gardens to gain an understanding of their unique culture, way of life, and experience.
Throughout, costumed historical interpreters share fascinating – often poignant – stories about the Jesuit and their Wendat neighbours. A free audio tour also enhances the experience.
Parents with small children may wish to schedule their visit for a Friday when the park hosts Handson Heritage: Farm Fridays. For an additional cost of $5 per person, families can enjoy a brief tour of the historic farm, participate in handson activities designed for little ones, and meet heritage breeds of cows, chickens, and pigs.
The site also includes an awardwinning museum where many unearthed artifacts are displayed, a gift shop, and a restaurant. In a new development, guests can choose to stay overnight in a cabin outside the palisade along the picturesque Wye River.
At Sainte Marie, history and recreation intertwine. Yes, stepping back in time can be an educational, even moving experience, but it also be plain-and-simple fun.
FUN IN THE SUN WITH WALMART
Walmart provides a wide range of summer products perfect for outdoor water fun, catering to all ages and ensuring families can enjoy delightful moments in the sun. Their collection includes everything from inflatable pools to various water toys; all aimed at enhancing the outdoor experience during the hot months. Shoppers will find all they need to stay cool and entertained while creating lasting memories together.
Plum® Bluey Playhouse
The Bluey™ Wooden Playhouse promotes imaginative play, allowing kids to roleplay as Bluey and Bingo. Made from durable, eco-friendly FSC®-certified wood. $399.97
Little Kids Inc. Bluey 4-ft.
Inflatable Sprinkler
The Little Kids Inc Bluey 4-ft.
Inflatable Sprinkler is a fun backyard addition for kids aged 3 and up.
$39.98
Step 2 Rain Showers Splash
Pond Water Table with Umbrella
Transform your backyard into a mini water park with a two-tier toddler water table that promotes fun and learning. $129.97
Gazillion Bubble Rush Machine
The Gazillion Bubble Rush Machine features a no-spill modular design for easy cleaning and maintenance. $24.98
Dino Playcenter
The Dino Play Center is an inflatable, dinosaur-themed pool and play area designed for children aged 2 and up. It features a built-in water sprayer to keep kids cool. $49.98
Step2 Whisper Ride Cruiser Red
The Step2 toy push car for kids offers a fun and realistic driving experience with its sporty design, movable steering wheel, and working horn.
$119.97
Little Kids Inc. Stitch Lights & Sounds Bubble Want
The Little Kids Disney Stitch Bubble Blower is a fun, handheld bubble toy for children aged 3 and up.
$14.98
Family Pool
The Rectangular Bluescape Family Pool is a UV-resistant inflatable pool measuring 10-ft. long. $29.98
Bunch O Ballons
Reusable Shark Water Balloons
These biodegradable water balloons offer fun and sustainability, providing up to 10,000 splashes each. $13.97
WHAT’S UNDER THE COVERS THIS MONTH
Lemonade for Sale
By Stuart J. Murphy & Illustrated by Tricia Tusa
Teaches children about bar graphs through the story of the Elm Street Kids selling lemonade and analyzing their sales data. With engaging illustrations by Tricia Tusa, the book makes math concepts accessible and includes activities for extended learning. Part of the MathStart series, which features 63 books across three levels.
Age: 6-10 Published by: Harper Collins Pages: 40 Price: $10.99
Emotional Intelligence for Kids
By MindJoy
A comprehensive guide that helps children understand and manage their emotions through six chapters. It covers recognizing emotions, managing feelings, developing empathy, enhancing social skills, and fostering positivity. The book features 14 engaging stories with illustrations and interactive challenges, providing tools for emotional regulation and resilience. It’s a valuable resource for parents and educators focused on nurturing emotionally intelligent children.
Age: 4-8 Published by: Independently Published Pages: 76 Price: $19.99
I Can, Too
By Karen Autio
& Illustrated by Laura Watson
The story “I Can, Too!” highlights the friendship between two children, Piper and Kayla, who embrace their diverse abilities while engaging in various activities. Inspired by the author’s daughter with spina bifida, the narrative promotes inclusion and understanding of adaptive devices. It encourages readers to appreciate differences and fosters curiosity about special gear.
Age: 3-7 Published by: Scholastic Canada Pages: 24 Price: $8.99
Carson Crosses Canada
By Linda Bailey
& Illustrated by Kass
Reich
Annie Magruder and her dog, Carson, are setting off from British Columbia to visit her sister, Elsie, in Newfoundland. In their rattlebang car, packed with Carson’s favourite toy, Squeaky Chicken, and plenty of baloney sandwiches, they journey through Canada. They marvel at the vast landscapes, from the expansive skies and grasshoppers in Saskatchewan to the red earth and delicious lobster rolls in PEI, before arriving at Elsie’s home, where a surprise awaits Carson!
Age: 3-7 Published by: Tundra Books Pages: 36 Price: $23.99
On the Plane Activity Book
By Heather Alexander & Illustrated by Putri Febriana
The perfect travel companion for your flying adventure. Kids can enjoy ‘I Spy While I Fly’, a quiz, and matching pilots while navigating the airport. With colouring pages, matching games, drawing challenges, and fun facts about flying, this book keeps kids entertained in the air or at the airport. All they need are some pens and pencils to unleash their creativity!
Age: 3-6 Published by: Ivy Kids Pages: 64 Price: $16.99
How to Babysit a Grandma
By Jean Reagan & Illustrated by Lee Wildish
This New York Times bestseller highlights the special bond between grandmothers and grandchildren, encouraging kids to be babysitters for a day. Featuring practical babysitting tips, fun activities, and cosy sleepover ideas. The humorous narrative by a skilled author-illustrator team makes it a delightful read and is part of a series that includes “How to Babysit a Grandpa” and “How to Catch a Santa”.
Age: 1-5 Published by: Knopf Books for Young Readers Pages: 26 Price: $11.99
essential life skills
THE SECRET TO RAISING CONFIDENT COMMUNICATORS: WHY WE MUST START EARLY
In today’s world, strong communication skills are no longer just a “nice to have.” They are essential for success in almost every aspect of life. As technology and artificial intelligence advance at record speed, the skills that stand out most are distinctly human ones: the ability to think critically, connect with others, and communicate clearly. Whether children are navigating friendships, presenting a school project, applying to university, or interviewing for their first job, their ability to express themselves confidently will shape their opportunities.
Over my 20-year career with the Law Society of Ontario’s Investigations Unit, I witnessed a persistent and troubling pattern. My work involved interviewing, writing detailed reports, and testifying. We hired many bright, capable university graduates, yet time and again, we had to send new staff for remedial training in basic writing and interview skills. They had the intelligence, but not the communication tools to match it.
Reflecting on the past, university admissions primarily relied on
WORDS BY HAFSA ESMAIL
academic averages. That landscape has shifted significantly. Today, many institutions, including prestigious programs like the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management, place substantial emphasis on interviews. Rotman, for example, allocates 50 per cent of its selection criteria to interview performance. Applicants must articulate their experiences and aspirations clearly, often on camera and within tight time limits. This trend is not unique to Canada. Universities across the United States, such as Harvard and Stanford, also consider interviews a crucial component. Young people are expected to present themselves with confidence and clarity long before they step into the workplace.
At the same time, international comparisons show that some education systems place a stronger, earlier emphasis on literacy and communication than we often see in North America. Countries such as Singapore, Japan, Australia, and several in Europe consistently perform well on reading and writing
assessments, and many of these countries introduce structured speaking and writing tasks throughout the primary years. In contrast, data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development suggests that Canada and the United States face ongoing literacy challenges. This highlights the need for a renewed focus on reading, writing, and speaking from an early age.
One practical way to respond is to intentionally build four interconnected pillars: reading comprehension, enrichment writing, debate, and public speaking.
Strong reading comprehension helps children move beyond simply understanding the plot. They learn to recognize tone, bias, and perspective, and to ask, “What is the author really saying?” Enrichment writing gives them a structure for organizing those thoughts, choosing precise language, and expressing ideas logically and creatively.
Debate and public speaking build complementary skills: debate trains children to think critically and respond in the moment, while public speaking helps them deliver their ideas clearly to an audience. Debating also teaches them to listen actively and consider multiple viewpoints, which encourages respectful disagreement and deeper thinking.
Parents and educators can start small: asking children to explain their reasoning, encouraging them to read widely, giving them chances to present to family, or having informal debates at the dinner table. Over time, these everyday habits build lasting confidence.
By prioritizing communication skills early, we are giving children more than academic advantages. We are giving them a voice, and the confidence to use it to shape their own futures in an everevolving, technology-driven world. powerofwordsacademy.ca
Hafsa Esmail, is the Founder and Executive Director of Power of Words Academy
LEGO®
In wake of the Canadian Grand Prix, LEGO® has introduced a range of Formula 1 sets suitable for all ages, allowing families to engage in the thrill of racing from home. These sets cater to various interests, from novice builders to adult collectors, enabling fans to create their own racing events at home. Additionally, the LEGO® Group has partnered with F1 ACADEMY™, offering an exclusive set aimed at inspiring young girls to consider careers in professional racing. This year’s lineup includes new sets reflecting the latest teams in F1.
Available at LEGO®.com and where LEGO® toys are sold.
FOR KIDS, FAMILIES AND MOVIE FANS
stay alert SUMMER POOL PARTY SAFETY
A backyard pool opens the door to an endless source of summertime memories. There may be no better place to gather when the sun is shining, and the heat is blazing than the cooling waters of a backyard pool. Although a pool can be an enjoyable and relaxing home feature, it also carries significant responsibilities.
Recent findings from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission show that drowning and submersions among children remain high. In 2020, 339 children younger than age 15 fatally drowned, and in 2021, that figure rose by 12 per cent. Young children (age 5 and under) represent 75 per cent of child drowning deaths and 77 per cent of nonfatal injuries.
Pool safety concerns and drowning incidents are largely preventable. By staying up to date on safety standards and being vigilant when hosting
others, people can ensure that the pool remains a place to relax and have fun.
Create physical barriers
Modern safety standards require separating the pool from the neighbours and the rest of the home and yard. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say a fence that is at least four feet tall that completely surrounds the water can reduce a child’s drowning risk by up to 83 per cent, compared to three-sided property-line fencing. Gates should be self-closing and selflatching, and entryways to the pool should swing outward away from the water. New smart lock technology can alert homeowners if a gate is left open.
Visual supervision
No technology can replace a human. Someone should be enlisted to
watch the water anytime someone is swimming, and especially when larger crowds during a party will be using the pool. The person should have no phone, book or other distractions, and should remain sober. The CPSC suggests this “water watcher” handle the task for a set period of time and then can be rotated out. Those hosting a party may want to hire a lifeguard, even if they have an above-ground pool, to ensure the safety of all swimmers.
Establish firm rules
While pools can be fun, it’s essential that everyone behave safely when in and around the water. Party hosts can set rules, such as no running or diving. People may consider removing large floats or extra toys from the pool water, which can hinder sight lines and mask someone floundering or drowning. Additional
rules may prohibit drinking alcoholic beverages and swimming, or having separate swim times for children and adults, as larger adults might overwhelm the pool and make swimming more challenging for younger swimmers.
Keep safety gear nearby
Rescue equipment, such as a shepherd’s hook and an approved life ring, should be poolside at all times. At least one person in the household should be trained in CPR. Survival rates and neurological outcomes for drowning victims improve considerably when CPR can be administered immediately. Planning a pool party requires more than making sure water chemicals are balanced and there are refreshments available. Ensuring that swimmers remain safe should be the utmost priority.
JULY 2026 MOVIE PICKS FROM OLD TO MODERN DAY CLASSICS
Race to Witch Mountain – 2009 – Walt Disney Pictures, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Jack Bruno (Dwayne Johnson), a taxi driver in Las Vegas, finds himself caught in the adventure of a lifetime when he encounters Sara (AnnaSophia Robb) and Seth (Alexander Ludwig), two young extraterrestrials with extraordinary abilities. To stop an invasion of Earth, Jack must assist the youths in getting to their spaceship, hidden deep within Witch Mountain. However, this mission won’t be simple, as government agents and an alien bounty hunter are hot on their heels.
The Land Before Time – 1988 –Universal Pictures
In a prehistoric world, a young dinosaur named Littlefoot embarks on a courageous journey to find the legendary Great Valley, a safe haven for his kind. After losing his mother to a fierce predator, he sets out alone but soon encounters a diverse group of friends. Together, they face various challenges and learn the importance of friendship, teamwork, and perseverance as they navigate the dangers of their environment. (Editor’s note: The film touches on grief with emotional scenes – recommended age 6+)
Peter Rabbit – 2018 – Sony Pictures
The 2018 film Peter Rabbit brings a modern twist to the classic tale of the mischievous rabbit and his adventures in Mr. McGregor’s garden. This animated live–action blend follows Peter as he navigates his rivalry with the grumpy gardener. However, when one of McGregor’s relatives unexpectedly moves in, he is not pleased to find a family of rabbits residing in his new abode. A clash of determination quickly ensues as the new resident devises plan after plan to eliminate Peter, a clever rabbit who demonstrates himself to be a challenging and cunning opponent.
The Muppets Most Wanted – 2014 –Jim Henson Video – Disney Kermit, Miss Piggy, Animal, and the Muppets head out on a wild global adventure that spirals into chaos when they get caught in an international crime scheme. Kermit is locked up by warden Nadya (Tina Fey), while his doppelgänger Constantine, the World’s Number One Criminal, takes his place. As Constantine and his accomplice Dominic (Ricky Gervais) plan a heist, they are chased by Sam Eagle and Interpol agent Jean Pierre Napoleon (Ty Burrell).
George of the Jungle – 1997 – Disney George (Brendan Fraser) has been on his own since he was a baby after a plane crash left him stranded in an African jungle. Now grown up, George experiences his first human interaction in years when he saves explorer Ursula Stanhope (Leslie Mann) from a lion. George and Ursula form a bond, leading her to break off her engagement with Lyle (Thomas Haden Church) and bring George back to San Francisco. However, when George discovers that his gorilla friend has been taken, he and Ursula embark on a mission to rescue him.
COLOUR ME
Get out your pencils or crayons and make this summer canvas come to life!
camp summerfun adventure
CANADIAN DANCE ACADEMY At Canadian Dance Academy, we inspire dancers of all ages and levels to discover their confidence, creativity, and passion through movement. Located in the heart of Etobicoke, our awardwinning faculty provides exceptional dance education in a supportive, encouraging environment. From recreational programs to competitive training, our diverse classes – including ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary, and acro – help dancers develop strong technique and self-expression. Whether your child is taking their first class or refining their skills, CDA is a place to grow, connect, and shine. Visit us to learn more or register for classes today. office@canadiandance.academy | canadiandance.academy
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1.800.236.8399 suitedreams.com
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