Summer Camps Museum Discovery
Register now for an exciting summer camp adventure at the Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate!
Explore, discover, and learn at your community museum by the lake.
Enjoy hands-on discovery camps with themes inspired by art, nature, science, architecture, design, and more.
Get ready for a summer filled with imagination, creativity, and endless fun!
Learn more at camps.oakville.ca.
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TERMS AND INDEMNIFICATION
COOL
Stuff
GARNIER: Launches new products for skin and hair this year
FEATURE
Will planning:
The Godparent Fallacy: Why informal plans may not protect your children in Ontario
PARENT Stuff
Mompreneur: Judy Hughes: Founder of The Peace Labs
STORY Spotlight
Canadian author of the month: Following her own path in Sarabeth’s Garage by Canadian author Melanie Florence
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up front
THE POWER OF “WHAT IF?
”
After a long, frigid winter spent navigating snowbanks, heavy coats, and short days, March feels like a collective awakening. We emerge slowly from hibernation, drawn by longer light and the promise of spring. This year, that sense of renewal feels especially meaningful as I watch my grandson – just past one and eagerly heading toward two – discover the world with an enthusiasm that is both joyful and humbling.
In just over a year, he has learned so much. From tentative first steps to confident movement, from babbled sounds to intentional words, from quietly observing the world to actively testing it. Every day brings a new experiment, and each moment seems guided by the same silent question: what if?
What if I chuck my food from the highchair just to watch the dog instantly hoover it up?
What if I act silly at the table and make everyone laugh?
What if I point to everything in the room – lamp, chair, window – just to hear my mom say the word again and again?
There is delight in cause and effect, comfort in repetition, and pride in realizing that actions have meaning. These moments may look small, even
mischievous, but they are powerful. They are the building blocks of learning.
As grandparents, we’re given a special gift: perspective. We get to slow down and truly notice how learning unfolds – not through instruction alone, but through curiosity, connection, and play. Children don’t learn because they’re told to; they learn because they’re interested. Because they’re engaged. Because someone is there to respond when they point, ask, or try again.
Winter routines can narrow our focus, pushing us toward efficiency and outcomes. Spring invites us to widen it once more. It reminds us that learning doesn’t need to be rushed or perfected. It can be playful. It can be silly. It can begin with a beloved book read for the hundredth time, a tower built and knocked down, or a simple question asked out loud.
This month, we celebrate the power of “what if” at every age. From toddlers discovering language and laughter, to older children exploring ideas through books, handson play, and thoughtful experimentation. Curiosity is the common thread – and the foundation of lifelong learning. Sometimes, the smallest learners – with a spoon in hand and wonder in their eyes – remind us of the most important lessons of all.
Mary Racioppo Editor-In-Chief, City Parent
will planning THE GODPARENT FALLACY: WHY INFORMAL PLANS MAY NOT PROTECT YOUR CHILDREN IN ONTARIO
WORDS BY TIM HEWSON, CO-FOUNDER AND CEO, LEGALWILLS
Many parents remember the moment they chose their child’s godparents. It may have involved a heartfelt conversation, or a shared understanding that “if anything ever happens to us, you’ll take care of our child.”
But there’s an important reality every parent should understand: the title “Godparent” has no automatic legal status under Ontario legislation. A godparent does not automatically gain custody, guardianship, or decision-making authority.
This misunderstanding is sometimes called the “Godparent Fallacy”: the belief that naming godparents or making informal agreements is enough to legally protect your children. While the intention is loving and sincere, these arrangements do not carry legal authority in an Ontario court.
Informal agreements aren’t enough
Designation of godparents and verbal promises, whether religious or informal, does not give anyone the legal right to make decisions for a child or assume care after a parent’s death. If a child’s parents pass away, a court ultimately has authority over who will have decision-making responsibility, based on the child’s best interests under the Ontario’s Children’s Law Reform Act. Without written guidance from the parents, the court must rely on evidence, applications from family members, and existing caregiving arrangements to determine the outcome, which can lead to delays, uncertainty and
conflict among well-meaning relatives who each believe they know what the parents would have wanted.
What happens if no guardian is named
If there is no surviving parent (or guardian), children are usually cared for immediately by a relative or trusted adult. However, if there is no clear or appropriate caregiver available, or if there are child-protection concerns, the Children’s Aid Society (CAS) may become involved on a temporary basis. While Ontario courts strongly prefer placement with family or familiar adults whenever possible, the lack of a clear plan can create unnecessary stress and legal complexity at an already difficult time.
Financial matters can also be delayed. When a parent dies, assets are generally frozen until an estate trustee is appointed, and minor children cannot receive an inheritance directly.
Naming a guardian in a Will allows that person to immediately act as a guardian for up to 90 days until longterm arrangements are finalized by the court. It allows parents to express direct wishes to the court.
How to strengthen your plan
Creating a plan doesn’t have to be complicated. You can significantly reduce uncertainty by taking a few key steps:
• Choose a guardian and an alternate. Select someone you trust
to care for your children and name a backup option. Always have open conversations to confirm willingness and readiness.
• Document wishes in a valid will. A properly drafted Will identifies a temporary guardian and clearly communicates your intentions to the court.
• Proper execution. The Will must be signed in accordance with Ontario law, including proper witnessing, to be legally valid.
Getting your affairs in order is one of the most meaningful acts of care you can take as a parent, and tools like LegalWills make it simple to create a legally valid Ontario Will that communicates those wishes clearly. Peace of mind isn’t automatic, it’s planned.
LEGO®
This Easter, think beyond chocolate. LEGO® isn’t just for kids – it’s for anyone who loves to build, create, and unwind. From colourful spring sets for little hands to intricate builds for teens and adults, LEGO® makes a fun, lasting addition to any Easter basket, offering joy long after the treats are gone.
Available at LEGO®.com and where LEGO® toys are sold.
LEGO® Botanicals Bouquet of Pink Roses Ages 18+ | 789 pieces | $79.99
LEGO® Icons Star Trek: U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-D™ Ages 18+ | 3,600 pieces | $489.99
LEGO® Super Mario™: Mario Kart™Interactive LEGO® Mario™ & Standard Kart Ages 7+ | 278 pieces | $54.99
LEGO® Wednesday Morticia’s Cottage Ages
LEGO® Ideas The Goonies Ages 18+ | 2,912 pieces | $379.99
LEGO® Bluey: Bluey’s Family House Ages 4+ | 382 pieces | $89.99
LEGO® Wicked Glinda & Elphaba Visit Munchkinland Ages 9+ | 744 pieces | $89.99
Canadian author of the month
FOLLOWING HER OWN PATH IN SARABETH’S GARAGE BY CANADIAN AUTHOR MELANIE FLORENCE
Sarabeth’s Garage by Canadian author Melanie Florence is a thoughtful and affirming picture book that celebrates independence, curiosity, and the courage to follow one’s own interests – even when they challenge long-held expectations.
Sarabeth loves cars. She delights in their sounds and personalities: engines that roar like lions or purr like kittens, sports cars that race like cheetahs, and sturdy SUVs that lumber along like elephants. Florence’s playful language captures the sensory joy of machines through a child’s eyes, transforming grease and engines into sources of wonder rather than mess.
Much of Sarabeth’s happiness comes from helping her father in his garage, a space that represents encouragement, learning, and belonging. Here, Sarabeth is free to explore what excites her, gaining
Other books by Melanie Florence
confidence and skill alongside her dad. The garage stands in contrast to the expectations held
The One About the Blackbird • Missing Nimâmâ • Stolen Words
by Sarabeth’s grandmother, who believes little girls should play with dolls, wear dresses, and keep
JUST THE FACTS
Sarabeth’s Garage
By Melanie Florence and Illustrated by Nadia Alam
Published by Tundra Books
Suitable for ages 3-7 | 40 pages | $24.99 Hardcover
Available on amazon.ca and Indigo/Chapters
Released on February 10, 2026
their hands clean. Her disapproval reflects familiar generational ideas about gender and propriety – ideas Florence addresses with empathy rather than judgment.
When the grandmother’s car begins to fail, it is Sarabeth’s knowledge and passion that save the day. This pivotal moment gently challenges assumptions and opens the door to understanding, allowing her grandmother to reconsider what it means to support a child’s interests.
Melanie Florence, a member of the Pasqua First Nation, is a celebrated voice in Canadian children’s literature. With Sarabeth’s Garage, she once again delivers a story that encourages young readers to embrace who they are, while inviting adults to reflect on the expectations they pass down – and the possibilities that emerge when those expectations change.
march
COOL THINGS
Boys Lemon Knit Set
FELTMAN BROTHERS –NEW SPRING FASHION
Girls Lemon Knit Romper
Bring a splash of sunshine to her wardrobe with this ivory knit romper, blending vintage charm with playful sweetness. Delicate pointelle detailing, scattered lemon embroidery, and soft flutter sleeves make it perfect for spring celebrations and warmweather adventures.
$64.95 available at feltmanbrothers.com
Add a splash of sunshine to his wardrobe with this charming ivory two-piece knit set, designed to balance polished “big kid” style with soft, all-day comfort. The polo-inspired top features a classic knit collar and pearlized buttons, while delicate pointelle stripes and tiny embroidered lemons add a cheerful, heirloom touch. Finished with coordinating knit shorts and a comfy ribbed waistband –perfect for brunch dates, celebrations, and special milestones.
$62.95 available at feltmanbrothers.com
Girls Embroidered Garden Knit Dress
This darling white knit dress is a timeless addition to any little girl’s wardrobe, blending classic heritage styling with all-day comfort. Delicate scattered floral embroidery, short puff sleeves, and a woven Peter Pan collar create a sweet, polished look – perfect for family portraits, Sunday outings, and special celebrations.
A matching Embroidered Garden Knit Romper is also available for little ones.
$69.95 available at feltmanbrothers.com
New Manta Sleep Earplugs
Most earplugs make you choose between silence and comfort – but Manta Sleep Earplugs deliver both. Launched last November, they’re already rated #1 for side-sleep comfort, with an adaptive, barely-there fit that stays put all night without pressure or pain. Featuring a soft memory foam core, easy-clean silicone shell, and five sizes per kit, they’re engineered for deep, uninterrupted sleep from a brand trusted by over one million customers.
$29.00 USD available at mantasleep.com
oral health WHEN CAN CHILDREN BRUSH THEIR OWN TEETH?
Parents quickly learn that their children go through a transition marked by a desire to be more independent. They’re picking out their own mismatched clothes and no longer want any help when solving puzzles or complex toys. That newfound independence signals getting older and can be a healthy thing to nourish. But what happens when a youngster suddenly believes they can brush their teeth without assistance?
Parents wrestling with their kids’ can-do attitude and if it’s wise to allow them to brush their teeth unassisted can familiarize themselves with certain guidelines to determine their youngsters’ readiness. According to Scripps Pediatric Dentistry &
Orthodontics, most kids are at least six years old before they have developed the finesse and dexterity to handle a toothbrush in a manner that will effectively remove plaque. Dentists also may ask if the child can tie his or her own shoes, which can serve as a barometer of readiness to wield a toothbrush without assistance.
Pediatricians and pediatric dentists recommend that children visit a dentist as soon as a child’s first tooth starts to appear. This also is when parents should begin to clean their children’s teeth. As a child ages, the natural proclivity to want to take charge of brushing teeth takes hold. The child may not yet have the manual dexterity
to brush alone, but parents can encourage the child to brush and then go over the teeth as a “double check”. This helps foster independence while also ensuring teeth are fully cleaned.
Flossing may require even more dexterity than brushing, but it is essential for sloughing off plaque that accumulates between teeth and below the gum line, according to Parents magazine. Moms and dads can introduce their children to pre-threaded Y-shaped flossing tools, which are easier to handle than loose floss.
Parents will have to check on children even as they age to be sure they are practicing good oral hygiene. Parents who are in doubt about their
MOST KIDS ARE AT LEAST SIX YEARS OLD BEFORE THEY HAVE DEVELOPED THE FINESSE AND DEXTERITY TO HANDLE A TOOTHBRUSH
children’s readiness can work with dentists or dental hygienists to assess skills and get other pointers. – Metro Creative
mompreneur JUDY HUGHES: FOUNDER OF THE PEACE LABS THE
One woman’s journey through motherhood sparked a movement to help families slow down, breathe deeper, and reconnect.
A mom, a maker, a mission
CANADIAN MOMPRENEUR BRINGING PEACE HOME
In the heart of Canada, one mother is redefining what it means to find balance in a busy world. Judy Hughes, founder of The Peace Lab, is on a mission to help families slow down, reconnect, and embrace calm – one small, intentional moment at a time.
Judy created The Peace Lab to offer simple, practical tools for building peace from the inside out.”
What tells the story
What started as a passion project has grown into a trusted wellness brand for parents seeking grounded support. The Peace Lab provides a range of services – from workshops
and coaching to mindfulness resources – all designed to help families navigate stress, foster emotional resilience, and connect more deeply with each other.
One of Hughes’s most beloved creations is the Peace Balm Roll-On, a soothing essential oil blend crafted to calm the nervous system and invite moments of mindful presence. “It’s a little bottle of ‘exhale,’” she says. Made with lavender,
chamomile, and frankincense, the Peace Balm is safe for kids and adults alike, and is perfect for bedtime routines, anxious moments, or simply as a ritual of self-care during a hectic day.
“The balm came from my own need,” Hughes shares. “I wanted something tactile – something I could reach for in those moments when I felt overwhelmed, and that my children could use too. It’s become a tool of connection in our home.”
Peace Balm Roll-On
A pocket-sized blend of calm for kids and adults, made with pure essential oils: lavender, chamomile and frankincense. Available at thepeacelabs.com
The motivation
Hughes’s deeper purpose is helping
families thrive – not by doing more, but by doing things differently. “The Peace Lab isn’t about perfection,” she says. “It’s about presence. It’s about slowing down and tuning in.” Through her signature balm, heartfelt content, and hands-on guidance, Hughes is gently leading a movement: peace is possible – even in the mess.
With an authentic voice and a heart-led approach, Hughes is resonating with parents across Canada. Her work isn’t about striving for perfection; it’s about cultivating peace in the small, everyday choices we make.
In a time when families are seeking more meaning, more calm, and more connection, The Peace Lab is lighting the way forward. Judy Hughes is not just creating a business – she’s creating a movement.
thepeacelabs.com
GARNIER
LAUNCHES NEW PRODUCTS FOR SKIN AND HAIR THIS YEAR
Salicylic Acid Purifying Cleanser
Purify, protect, perfect your skin. A gentle yet powerful gel-to-foam cleanser for acne-prone and sensitive skin. It purifies, removes excess sebum, minimizes pores, and supports the moisture barrier with a dermatology-inspired blend of salicylic acid, niacinamide, clay, and ceramides.
Sulfate-free, fragrance-free, vegan, and dermatologically tested. | $15.99
Diamond Sleek Shine Coat
Smoothing Spray
Mirror-like shine, frizz-free confidence. Achieve sleek, frizz-free hair with 100 hours of polished shine. Scientifically tested and powered by a keratin smoothing complex with argan oil, this blow-dry–activated formula boosts smoothness, light reflection, and waterproof performance – cruelty-free. | $12.99
Imperfection Patch Invisible
Redness down, confidence up. This blemish patch works for up to 8 hours to absorb fluid, reduce redness, and visibly flatten imperfections. Discreet under makeup, vegan, cruelty-free, and gentle on skin, it comes in two sizes (10 mm & 12 mm) and is made in Korea. | $13.99
Brightening Daily UV Fluid Glow & Invisible
Two brightening formulations designed to suit every preference: Glow for gradual, radiant-looking skin with a lightweight finish, and Invisible for instant radiance with zero white cast. Both are nongreasy, hydrating, dermatologist-tested, fragrancefree, and suitable for sensitive skin. | $20.99
Colour Sensation
Quick roots, bold results. A quick, affordable root touch-up that delivers 100% grey coverage in 5 universal shades. Ammoniafree and enriched with rose oil, it restores hair while providing intense, long-lasting colour for up to 4 weeks – tested on men and women. | $5.99
WHAT’S UNDER THE COVERS THIS MONTH
By Marlies Larch
This book invites kids on a fun-filled search to spot the hidden bunny on every page. With colourful images, playful riddles, and bonus colouring pages, this Easter-themed I Spy book is perfect for ages 2–5 and makes a delightful, memory-making Easter basket surprise.
Age: 2-6 Published By TG Edition Pages: 37 Price: $19.99
We
By X. Fang
When three odd visitors from “Europe” crash in Mr. Li’s field, he kindly welcomes them – despite their strange ways of speaking, dressing, and playing “sportsball.” As the town joins in to help, an unexpected celebration unfolds in this charming, quirky tale about kindness, community, and the joy of embracing differences.
Age: 4-8 Published By Tundra Books Pages: 48 Price: $24.99
By Jamie Thorne
101 Things Every Kid Needs to Know is a fun, easyto-read guide packed with essential life lessons for growing up. From making friends and doing chores to managing time and handling failure, this illustrated book helps kids build confidence, independence, and real-world skills they’ll use for a lifetime.
Age: 6-12 Published By Elk Point Press Pages: 136 Price: $16.89
By Suzanne Lang & Illustrated by Max Lang
Jim Panzee wants to play all day and skip every responsibility. From swinging with monkeys to rolling with zebras, fun comes first – until he ends up dirty, itchy, and hungry. With a gentle nudge from his friend, Jim learns that even play needs a little balance.
Age: 4-8 Published By Random House Studio Pages: 32 Price: $24.56
By Craig Smith & Illustrated
by
Katz Cowley
Kids will be in stitches with this laugh-out-loud, cumulative read-aloud! Meet the Wonky Donkey – a lovable, three-legged donkey with a growing list of silly traits. With each page, the fun builds until readers are giggling over a spunky, cranky, stinky, winky, wonky donkey they’ll never forget!
Age: 1-5 Published By Scholastic Pages: 24 Price: $9.99
By Nadia Ross & Special Art Stories
An inspiring collection of 10 uplifting stories that help girls build confidence, face challenges, and believe in themselves. With relatable characters, beautiful illustrations, and powerful life lessons, this book encourages young readers to embrace their uniqueness, shine their inner light, and never give up on their dreams.
Age: 5-10 Published By Special Art Pages: 111 Price: $14.50
Are Definitely Human
I Spy Easter Bunny
Grumpy Monkey Play All Day
101 Things Every Kid Needs to Know
You’re an Amazing Girl
The Wonky Donkey
MILES THE LABEL
PANTHERA SPRING COLLECTION
Get a head start this spring with a first look at the season’s freshest kids’ fashion. Miles The Label’s new Panthera Collection blends soft pastel hues, breathable layers, and thoughtfully chosen sustainable fabrics, all brought to life with a playful panther print designed for children aged 2–10.
Created with real life in mind, the collection is made to mix, match, and layer effortlessly. Each piece moves easily from cool mornings to sun-filled afternoons, offering comfort without sacrificing style. The result is a versatile spring wardrobe that feels as good as it looks – perfect for kids who are always on the go.
For more styles and colours, visit milesthelabel.com
8
7 6 5 4 3 2 1
|
1. Leopard Print on Light Pink Dress – $40 and up | 2. Leopards on Birch Ruffled Sweatshirt – $42 | 3. Leopards on Birch Sweatshirt – $40 Taupe Joggers – $34 | 4. Powdered Blue Polo Top – $40 Powdered Blue Shorts – $32 | 5. Hibiscus on Magenta Ruffled T-Shirt – $40 Hibiscus on Magenta Ruffled Shorts – $34 | 6. Leopards on Birch Sweatshirt – $42 | 7. Leopard on Taupe T-Shirt – $34
8. Miles Pink Wide Leg Girl’s Joggers – $36 & Miles Pink TwoToned Hooded Sweatshirt – $44
family fun ONTARIO RESORTS MARCH TO A BEAUTIFUL TUNE
WORDS BY ANDREW HIND
March Break is fast approaching, and you may be looking to book an unforgettable family vacation at one of Ontario’s many resorts. There are so many choices. Which is the best resort for you? Every family is unique and there is no one-sized fits all vacation destination.
However, with that in mind, we aim to make the decision a bit easier by narrowing down the options.
The Adventure One: Deerhurst Resort (Deerhurstresort.com)
At Deerhurst Resort, it’s literally all fun and games.
Outdoor-loving families will have a ball at this Huntsville resort which sits amidst a vast wintry playground. Follow trails through snow-hushed woods by snowshoe or ski (both available at no extra fee), try your hand at winter disc golf, skate on the outdoor skating rink, downhill ski or tube at neighboring Hidden Valley Highland Ski Area, and warm yourself by a campfire. Parents will love the serenity and beauty of the property, nestled among snow-shrouded hills. Head inside to use the pool and enjoy the indoor Fun Zone. Deerhurst rolls out special March Break
programming that includes family trivia and bingo, nature arts and crafts, teddy bear building workshops, and more.
The Water Park One: Great Wolf Lodge (greatwolf.com)
Great Wolf Lodge bills itself as ‘the ultimate hotel-meets-waterpark’. As advertised, Great Wolf Lodge is the benchmark by which any resort in Ontario measures itself when it comes to waterplay. It boasts a 100,000-sq. ft. indoor waterpark with zero depth
entry areas, spray features in the toddler areas, and, for older kids, white-knuckle rides.
But Great Wolf Lodge is more than just a waterpark. Other amenities include a bowling alley, arcade, kids’ spa, and Cub Club Family Activity Centre where children enjoy educational crafting.
Great Wolf Lodge recently took home the hardware for Top Family Entertainment Centre Award at the
Attractions Ontario’s Eighth Annual Ontario’s Choice Awards. You’ll agree that the award was well deserved.
The Luxury One: JW Marriott
The Rosseau Muskoka Resort (marriott.com)
JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort is one of Ontario’s most elevated resorts. But while the nextlevel services at the spa, the novelty of Canada’s only all-season ice bar, weekend live music, and diverse dining venues grab the headlines, children find no shortage of fun here.
Strap on snowshoes for a stroll through snow-hushed woods, rent a fat bike to ride country roads free of summer traffic, or splash in the indoor-outdoor pool. Sign up for child-friendly programming that includes building a stuffed moose, painting a mini wooden paddle or pet rock, or enjoying ooey-gooey s’mores by an outdoor fire.
Swifties of all ages will want to return on March 28 for The Music of Taylor Swift: A Candlite tribute concert. Tickets available at Eventbrite.ca
NATPAT
No sprays or creams, NATPAT products use infused patches or stickers with natural ingredients (often essential oils) that gently deliver their benefits over time when placed on clothes, accessories, or near the body – a simple, chemical-free approach that’s safe for most ages.
NATPAT is all about making wellness accessible, familyfriendly, and fun, whether it’s repelling bugs on a camping trip, encouraging hydration, or helping with everyday seasonal needs – with an emphasis on
CravePatch
Supports mindful eating by helping reduce between-meal and sugar cravings, making it easier for kids (and parents) to make healthier snack choices.
SleepyPatch
Encourages healthy bedtime routines by using a gentle, calming scent as a sleep cue, helping children and adults relax, unwind, and ease into bed.
Provides a natural calming cue that supports emotional balance and relaxation, ideal for families building stressreducing and mindful daily habits.
FocusPatch
Helps promote focus and sustained attention during homework, reading, or creative time, supporting learning goals and screenfree concentration.
ZenPatch
GET THE POPCORN OUT! FROM OLD CLASSICS TO MODERN DAY HITS
Babe – 1995 – Universal Studios Home Entertainment
A timeless family classic, Babe tells the story of a kind-hearted pig who defies expectations after being adopted by a sheep farmer. Rather than accepting the fate set before him, Babe discovers a surprising talent for herding sheep – using empathy, patience, and good manners instead of force. Warm, witty, and quietly profound, Babe is a gentle reminder that kindness is a strength and that curiosity can lead us to unexpected places. With memorable characters and a heartfelt message about belonging and believing in yourself, it’s a perfect choice for family movie night – one that resonates just as deeply with adults as it does with children.
Wonder – 2017 – Lionsgate Home Entertainment Wonder is a moving and uplifting film about Auggie Pullman, a young boy born with facial differences who enters a mainstream school for the first time. As Auggie navigates friendships, bullying, and everyday moments of bravery, the story unfolds through multiple perspectives – reminding viewers that everyone is carrying their own challenges. Heartfelt and hopeful, Wonder explores empathy, kindness, and the power of choosing compassion. It’s a meaningful recommendation for families and classrooms alike, sparking important conversations about inclusion, resilience, and seeing the extraordinary in others.
Encanto – 2021 – Walt Disney Animation Studios
Encanto is a vibrant animated film set in the mountains of Colombia. The story follows the Madrigal family, each blessed with a magical gift – except for Mirabel, who must find her own place within an extraordinary family when their magic begins to fade. Rich in colour, music, and heart, Encanto explores themes of belonging, identity, and family expectations, celebrating the idea that everyone’s worth goes beyond their talents. It’s a joyful, meaningful watch that resonates with all ages.
The Incredibles is an action-packed animated film. The story follows the Parr family, superheroes forced to live ordinary lives after heroes are outlawed – until they’re called back into action to save the world. Smart, fast-paced, and surprisingly heartfelt, The Incredibles explores family dynamics, identity, and embracing what makes each person unique. With its sharp humor and memorable characters, it’s a standout family film that balances thrilling adventure with an empowering message about teamwork and being true to yourself.
The Incredibles – 2004 – Pixar Animation Studios for Walt Disney
connection
GREAT WAYS TO BOND WITH YOUR NEW INFANT
A parent’s job begins the moment a woman learns she is pregnant. Upon receiving such news, women typically make important changes to ensure the well-being of the fetuses growing inside them.
Once a child is born, the first few weeks with baby certainly can be a whirlwind. During this period, pediatricians note how important bonding with parents is for a baby’s development. Parents may be unaware that the touches, cuddles and feelings of safety and security provided by them help set a foundation for emotional well-being, which can last throughout their child’s life.
According to Jeff Simpson, Ph.D., adjunct professor of psychology at the University of Minnesota and an author of a study about childhood attachment, babies who were
securely attached to their mothers by 12 months old (turning to her for comfort when exploring an unfamiliar place) were more likely to come out of an argument in their early 20s still feeling connected to their partners. Simpson surmises that the ability to trust, love and resolve conflict develops in part from how people are treated as infants.
The Australian parenting website Raising Children Network says repeated human contact like singing, cuddling, talking, touching, and gazing into each other’s eyes enables a newborn’s brain to release hormones that help his or her brain to grow. This, in turn, helps to develop memory, thought and language.
New parents may wonder what they can do to foster strong bonds with their babies. The following are some strategies to build those bonds.
Breastfeed baby
Breastfeeding provides more than nutrition. The close contact during nursing helps the child to hear Mom’s heartbeat and gets skin-to-skin contact.
Make eye contact
Parents should keep eye contact with baby when engaging in feedings and other care. This helps the baby remember who their parents are and
reassures them that their parents can be trusted.
Read baby’s messages
A child who wants to engage will make little noises, such as cooing or laughing sounds. He or she also may look relaxed and interested, while some may seek out their parents. React to these messages promptly.
Respond to cries
Parents can do their best to always respond to cries for attention as it helps the baby to feel safe. This is key during the first three months of the baby’s life. As the baby ages and has already developed a bond, parents can encourage more self-soothing. Bonding is important for babies and parents. Developing a connection early on can provide a safe and nurturing environment that can set the course for the child to feel loved and supported throughout his or her lifetime.
COLOUR ME
Get out your pencils or crayons and make this St. Patrick’s Day canvas come to life!
AGA KHAN MUSEUM Make the most of March break as you explore inspiring exhibitions, enjoy hands-on activities and take part in engaging programs designed to spark curiosity in visitors of all ages. From art making and storytelling to moments of mindful looking, every day offers something new to experience together. While you’re planning your visit, be sure to mark your calendars: Summer camp is just around the corner, and you won’t want to miss it. Registration details coming soon. learn@agakhanmuseum.org | agakhanmuseum.org/learn
416.646.4677
77 Wynford Drive Toronto, ON agakhanmuseum.org
CAMP WANAPITEI is more than a summer camp – it’s a wilderness experience that helps young people grow into confident, capable leaders. Located on Lake Temagami in Northern Ontario, Wanapitei blends adventure, community, and personal development through guided canoe trips, outdoor skills, and meaningful connection. Campers learn resilience as they paddle new waters, responsibility as they care for their team, and independence as they navigate real challenges – all supported by experienced, caring staff. Unplugged from screens and immersed in nature, children build lifelong friendships and a strong sense of self. For generations of families, Wanapitei has been a place where confidence is earned, character is shaped, and summer becomes transformational. Contact Jacob Fischer for more information campinfo@wanapite.net | wanapitei.net
MAPLE SEASON It’s the sweetest time of year at Conservation Halton Parks! Celebrate local traditions with family-friendly events at Mountsberg and Crawford Lake. Offered weekends and holidays from February 28 to April 5, and daily during March Break (March 16 to 20). Come out to Mountsberg’s Maple Town and Sweet Water at Crawford Lake and learn about maple syrup and sugar, plus enjoy sweet tastings, gentle hikes, kids’ activities, and more. New this year: Syrup & Starlight at Mountsberg on March 7 and 28, featuring a moonlit wagon ride and tour of the sugar bush, a maple syrup tasting flight, an Indigenous food tasting and live music. Get details on all events and book your tickets today!
conservationhalton.ca/mapleseason
J. ADDISON SCHOOL Fusion Day Camp offers an exciting experience for children ages 5 to 13 in a safe, supportive and engaging environment. Mornings are filled with energy and teamwork through sports such as basketball, volleyball, badminton and more, helping campers build confidence, cooperation and discipline. After enjoying a fresh, nutritious lunch prepared daily by Café J., afternoons shift to creativity and discovery with STEM experiments, arts and crafts, dance, hands-on activities or inspiring guest workshops. Each week wraps up with a special off-campus experience or themed activity, such as rock climbing, water games or a trip to Cineplex. Early-bird registration ends March 31. info@jaddisonschool.com | jaddisonschool.com
705.745.8314 wanapitei.net
905.477.4999 jaddisonschool.com
THE OAKVILLE SOCCER CLUB has been providing a positive soccer experience to the community of Oakville since 1972. The Club delivers year-round soccer programming for all ages and skill levels, starting with our youngest soccer stars (2 years-old), and progressing all the way to Adult League (ages 18+). Along their soccer journey, players can enjoy recreational or competitive levels of the game following OSC’s Player Pathway! Currently, registration is open for Youth Summer Soccer (Ages 2 – 18) and Summer Camp! Spaces are filling quickly! Sign up today to lock in your spot for soccer fun!
oakvillesoccer.ca | info@oakvillesoccer.ca
POWER SOCCER offers dynamic and enjoyable soccer camps and programs that since 1996 are completely focused on player development. Soccer programs are available for players of all skill levels from beginner to advanced/ competitive players. We offer year-round co-ed programs, as well as girls only classes for children ages 4 to 15 years old. Register for our weekly soccer schools, Winter Break, March Break, summer, and PA day camps. In our programs, players will work on shooting, passing, receiving, dribbling, movement with and without the ball, positioning and more! Plus at our Summer Camps, we have a Power Soccer “Olympics” and “World Cup” each week! Participants at our camps will also receive a “Power Pack” (jersey and hat), plus a Player Report detailing their progress, strengths, and areas to improve on. Camp registration is available for full days, half day mornings or afternoons. We also offer extended care with early drop-off and late pickup.
info@powersoccer.ca | powersoccer.ca
TOWN OF OAKVILLE Families know how important an active and rewarding camp experience is for their kids. That’s why the Town of Oakville is a great choice for fun, safe, and affordable summer camps for children ages four to 12, including those who may require additional support. Our camps are led by HIGH FIVE® trained staff and built on strong safety practices and positive values. With a wide range of activities close to home, children can stay active, make friends, and build confidence in a welcoming environment. We believe every child has the ability to learn, grow and thrive. While learning new physical skills is part of the experience, helping kids feel good about themselves is just as important. Oakville camps offer a supportive space where children can explore, discover and enjoy a memorable summer. Learn more. camps.oakville.ca
416.425.6062
powersoccer.ca
905.815.2000 camps.oakville.ca
TRUE NORTH SPORTS CAMPS: 20 Years of Play. Celebrating our 20th anniversary this summer, True North Sports Camps remains the premier destination for young athletes ages 4–14. We provide top-tier instruction in a fun, pressure-free environment where skill development and sportsmanship go hand-in-hand. From baseball, basketball, and soccer to flag football, hockey, and multi-sport, our expert coaches empower campers to build confidence on and off the field. With a legacy of excellence and a commitment to safe, active play, we invite your family to join our milestone season. Locations: Etobicoke, Forest Hill, Lawrence Park, Leaside, North York and Oshawa info@truenorthcamps.com | truenorthcamps.com
416.619.1224
So much to
Escape the winter chill at your Toronto Zoo and soak up tropical vibes year-round. Wander through 5 indoor tropical pavilions filled with lush landscapes and wildlife from around the world, connect with over 3,000 animals, and explore 10 km of scenic trails. Enjoy special activities with the Ontario Science Centre, meet your favourite PAW Patrol™ characters, and more. Plan your visit and discover upcoming events at torontozoo.com.
