Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide (2013) by Susan Bojahra

LET’S TALK ABOUT PUBERTY: HOW TO TALK TO YOUR KIDS ABOUT GROWING UP

PAGE 23

Backto

School Guide 2013 Affordable Fashion for Boys PAGE

Educational Apps for Kids PAGE

Back to School Lunches PAGE

A Message from Sue & Jen...

FEATURE

We are excited to present our second Back to School E-Guide to parents living in the Okanagan Valley.

having contest giveaways, great fall event listings and more Back to School tips! Happy back to school everyone! n

Whether you are looking forward to the start of the school year and getting back into a routine again or still out at the beach squeezing out the last bit of summer, we are sure this edition will have you in Back to School mode in no time! Our Back to School Guide features some important topics such as bullying and puberty along with a great piece on DIY fashion ideas for boys. If you have a girl going back to school, not to worry we will be featuring some cool fashion ideas for her on our blog. Be sure to visit Okanagan4Kids.com regularly as we will be

In this issue:

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

www.okanagan4kids.com

Back to school de-stress

Is Homeschooling Right for your Child?

Build a Strong Relationship with your Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Teacher

Back to School Lunches

Fight Bullying by Celebrating Friendship

Affordable Fashion for Boys

Educational Apps for Kids

Fabulous Finds

Puberty. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Talk About It.

www.okanagan4kids.com

YOUR BACK TO SCHOOL STATION

Okanagan4Kids.com Summer Activity Guide | 2013

Want to find events and activities for the kids but don’t know where to look? Find everything in one place!

B A C K T O S C H O O LF ED AE T- U S TR RE E S S

Back to School De-Stress

www.Okanagan4Kids.com

with Coach Beth

Find local activities, events, programs, camps and more.

Back to School time comes with many expectations, obligations, adjustments and concessions. Help your family de-stress during the crazy wonderful back to school time of year with these distressing tips: Create a consistent routine.

Discover local family-focused businesses and services. Check out our blogs for parenting tips, local activities and product reviews. Enter to win great prizes in our monthly contests. Okanagan4Kids.com is a proud supporter of local community events and charities!

Have a family meeting about the morning routine. Do you have an established way of getting your family out the door in the morning? Avoid morning melt downs by creating a family plan about what happens in the mornings at your house. This is your chance to think about what is best for your kids. Some people have the rule that there is absolutely no TV on in the morning, but maybe your child needs that 30 minutes of zone out time to get into the day. The key to good morning routines is consistency. Consistency requires some hard work at first, but it will pay off. Set a good example by creating a routine that works for your lives and then sticking to it. Choose to take it easy. The first two weeks of school are big adjustments for everyone in the family. Where ever possible avoid the trap of over scheduling your September. We tend to treat September like a new year and throw ourselves into it with great intentions to do all the things we didn’t do all summer. Help your family de-stress by taking on one new thing at a time. Be mindful www.okanagan4kids.com

of what you are putting on your schedule. Get clear about what is a priority, and what can wait a couple of weeks to begin. Schedule in time for rest. Going back to school takes an incredible amount of energy out of kids and parents. Make sure to actually schedule in some down time so that you are sure to take it. It is easy to get swept up into the wave of September busyness. Take care of you and your kids by making sure you get the breaks and rest you need. Set benchmarks. The real stress of back to school doesn’t show up sometimes until 2 or three weeks into it. When the novelty of the new backpack, and seeing friends again wears off, the overwhelm of the months left to go sinks in and the pace can get exhausting. Work on creating mini-milestones throughout the year to give your family something to shoot for and look forward to. Use these benchmarks as a way to rejuvenate rather than burn out your brood by creating doable, stress free highlights for the school year. Things like a tractor ride at the

end of September through an apple orchard, or a bike ride a new location can be good mini milestones to help the weeks turn into weekends. We all will say, “where did the year go!” when we get to the month of June, so fill up the year with things to look forward to and make it a memorable one. Be realistic schedules.

about

afterschool

If your afterschool routine has you shaking your head wondering how you are ever going to pull it off, give your head a good shake. Don’t set yourself up for burn out by trying to be a super hero to super hero kids. Are you setting yourself up for terrible Tuesday nights by committing to drive from one end of town to another with only 10 minutes to prepare, cook and eat dinner? Good parents have good boundaries. Sometimes guitar lessons will have to wait. Decide what will work well and avoid getting sucked into doing more. n Beth Veenkamp is a Certified Life Coach who has spent her career focusing on people. For more life tips from Coach Beth check out her Coach’s Corner at www.constructinglifecoaching.com

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

F EO AMTEUSRCEH O O L I N G H

FEATURE

Is homeschooling right for your child? The province of British Columbia has fairly relaxed education laws. The only stipulation that our government has regarding education is that all children ages 6 – 16 be registered with an educational institution, private or public, by September 30th of the coming school year.

ithin the school act, all that is required of parents that choose to homeschool is to provide their child with an ‘educational program’. There are no guidelines as to what constitutes an ‘educational program’. As the parent, you are able to design whatever program you feel is appropriate, provided it gives your child a well-rounded education that is designed to enable learners to become literate, to develop their individual potential and to acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to contribute to a healthy, democratic and pluralistic society and a prosperous and sustainable economy; BC School Act, Part 1, Section 1, “Educational Program” part (c). There are many reasons why a parent may

decide to homeschool their child. Some families wish to instill religious values through education and will design their educational program accordingly. Others are bothered by the idea of large class sizes that their child would likely be a part of within the public education system. Still others have a child with exceptional needs and feel strongly that educating them at home is the best environment to support their growth and development. If you are considering homeschooling as an educational option, be sure to do some research. Your local library has a number of resources available to help guide you in the decision making process. Visiting a local homeschoolers group is another excellent resource.

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

Hearing firsthand the challenges and successes homeschooling families have will give you a sense of what your days would be like as a homeschooler. Also, try and speak with people who were homeschooled as children, to get a sense of their experience, particularly socially and emotionally. Whatever educational program your family chooses, ensure it is best for your child. Ultimately, your choices as a parent, in regards to your child, have significant impacts on their future as adults. This responsibility is one of the many wonderful aspects of becoming a parent! n

personal BRIGHT best! from the start!

Forget those new jeans and superhero lunchbox. Confidence is the best school supply you can give your kids to set them up for school success.

Start this year strong with Sylvan. Our proven approach blends amazing teachers with SylvanSync™ technology on the iPad® for a truly engaging learning experience.

Jodi Quibell - Parent, Early Childhood Educator, Writer, Editor and Business Owner www.wordtothewiseservices.com

www.okanagan4kids.com

READING • WRITING

GET THIS YEAR’S BACK-TO-SCHOOL SUPPLY

www.okanagan4kids.com

•

MATH

50 OFF

Sylvan Skills Assessment® Offer expires September 30, 2013. Not valid with any other offer. Valid at participating locations only. Limit one per customer. Must present ad at time of assessment. Discount applies to $145 Comprehensive Assessment only.

DON’T WAIT UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE. START NOW!

KELOWNA 250.861.1255

Learning Should Be Personal ™

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

SYLVANLEARNING.CA

FOR S U M MAGES! ER READING BOWLING IS FUN ALL FALL LEAGUES FORMING NOW! ENROL YOUR CHILD IN A BOWLING TEAM TODAY!

FPEAARTEUNRTE/ T E A C H E R R E L A T I O N S H I P S

Build a strong relationship with your child’s teacher

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Great for BIRTHDAY PARTIES FUNdraisers and more! Licensed concourse service

Capri Centre Mall - Lower Level Phone: 250.979.2777 www.valleylanes.net

Especially in the primary grades, a child is influenced by their teacher. They spend a large portion of the day together, after all!

uilding a strong relationship and partnership with your child’s teacher is beneficial for your child, yourself and the teacher. The following are three ways to make that relationship happen:

Open and honest communication

Approach the school year in a positive way. Your child’s teacher is there to guide your child through their educational adventure. They are there to support your child’s development and play a large role in your child’s life. Asking questions and voicing concerns about your child’s education, without being accusatory or defensive, is the best way to resolve conflicts, should they arise.

Participate in field trips & classroom activities

There is nothing quite like spending an hour or two in a class filled with 22 active and vocal five-year-olds. If the teacher puts a call out for parent volunteers - answer that call, at least once during the school year. It will go a long way in helping you understand and empathize with the teacher. It will also give you incredible insight into your child’s daily school routine.

Have a sense of humour!

This is particularly helpful, in almost any situation you find yourself. Not taking

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

everything or everyone (including yourself) too seriously reduces your stress level. Beginning their school career is stressful enough – your child needs a relaxed and positive parent! It will give them the confidence to handle whatever situations they may encounter.

Remember... Kindergarten is only the first step. There are 12 more years of formal education to support your child through, not including College or University. By that time, the support they will be looking for will be in the form of laundry, food and money! n

Develop the Mind. Nourish the Body. Inspire the Soul. We guide, lead, coach, encourage and nurture. Our reward, and yours, is a child who’s engaged – a child who’s ready to face the future with pride and confidence. Take the first step with Brightpath. It’s the beginning of a great journey. Find out more at www.BrightPathKids.com

Jodi Quibell - Parent, Early Childhood Educator, Writer, Editor and Business Owner www.wordtothewiseservices.com

www.okanagan4kids.com

www.BrightPathKids.com www.okanagan4kids.com

3660 Brown Road

1370 Lawrence Avenue

250-452-6866

250-860-9788

9 Okanagan4Kids.com Summer Activity Guide | 2013 Kelowna West Kelowna

BACK TO SCHOOL LUNCHES

Back to school lunches It’s back to school! There is just something about September – it’s like New Year’s all over again. Fresh new year at school, new friends, new things to learn and of course, the changing of the seasons from our amazing summer to our beautiful fall.

peaking of fresh, when you were a kid, what did your school lunch look like? I remember sandwiches, sandwiches, sandwiches. Cheese, PB&J, ham, ham and cheese. Add in a side of fruit and a few cookies, and that was lunch. At least that’s how I remember it. I also remember becoming a picky lunch eater. I am pretty sure that I drove my parents crazy with the grief I caused them when it came to lunch. Now that I have kids of my own, I am always on the lookout ideas to make lunch a little more exciting. I am big on variety in my kids’ lunches, and I am pretty sure that there are some days that I over pack their lunches, but that’s just me and that’s just what I do. And yes, the oldest does still get sandwiches sometimes, but he also gets wraps and other fun. Here are a few samples of what lunch & snacks would look like for my kids in a typical day: FOR THE TODDLER:

Leftover homemade Hamburger patty, Strawberries, Toast, Cantaloupe, Cucumber and Greek Yogurt.

Toast, Cantaloupe, Strawberries, Cottage Cheese, Greek Yogurt, Savoury Fish and butternut squash.

See website for Savoury Fish recipe:

www.iamaddictedtorecipes.blogspot. ca/2012/03/savoury-fish.html FOR OUR OLDEST:

Yogurt, homemade Banana Bread, Carrots, Sandwich, Blueberries, Grapes.

See website for Banana Bread recipe:

www.iamaddictedtorecipes.blogspot. ca/2013/05/banana-coconut-bread.html

Ham, Cheese and Spinach wrap, Greek Yogurt, Cherries, Blueberries and Carrots.

themed lunches: You could also create a theme in your lunch. For instance, if your kids love finger foods, a great lunch might include pita chips with homemade guacamole and salsa, or meat, cheese, crackers and grapes.

dinner (and we’re happy making them, such an easy summer meal!). For a few of his lunches over the summer, I’ve had fun sending him with “Pizza on a Stick” or “Sandwich on a Stick”. Assuming your child won’t use the stick as a sword, it’s a fun way to shake up lunch:

Pizza on a Stick: Whole grain bread, cheese, pepperoni, peppers.

Sandwich on a Stick: Bread, cheese, ham, cucumber, peppers.

I hope that a few of these will inspire you to shake up the everyday lunch for your children (and maybe for you as well!). Be sure to come and check out all the great recipes that I share over at Addicted to Recipes (http://iamaddictedtorecipes. blogspot.com) and monthly at Okanagan4Kids! n Dawn is the mother of two boys and married to a kind, wonderful man. After all the cooking and playing is done for the day, she can be found reading (novels or cookbooks), scrapbooking, or working on her blog, Addicted to Recipes. Follow her blog at http://www.iamaddictedtorecipes. blogspot.com

Lately I have been on a “Lunch on a Stick” kick – our oldest loves BBQ kebabs at

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

www.okanagan4kids.com

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

s ’ y e v r a H n Ja Music & Movement for Children

FIGHT BULLYING

Fight bullying by celebrating friendship and entering innovative contest!

Music & Movement for Children offers programs for children between the ages of 6 months and 8 years. The classes are divided by age, but we also offer a family class for those who are looking for an activity for two or three children. Classes are designed and constructed by teachers to allow flexibility and a great balance between structured and non-structured activities. With a maximum of 10 children per class, the group dynamic also allows room for personalized attention for each student.

Teach children to be assertive, not aggressive

Rehearse phrases and words such as, “Stop!” until they sound confident. Reassure them walking away and reporting an incident is the best response.

Change the dynamics

Parents should provide an environment that promotes positive friendships; Ensure all kids are included and unhealthy behaviours don’t flourish.

Build on strengths

Children who deal with negative social behaviours often have low self-esteem. Find activities they enjoy so they can feel good about themselves. For children who act

out, find positive ways to apply their natural leadership skills (i.e. teaching younger kids a sport or skill).

Praise (and practice!) inclusive, respectful behaviour

Practice tolerance and model use of positive power by respecting and supporting others. Encourage positive relationships among children by praising respectful, inclusive behavior.

Use consequences that teach and encourage empathy

Parents must set guidelines, limits, and consequences for unacceptable aggressive behavior.

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

www.janharveymusic.com @musicandmovement4children

NTACT O C O S Y L K IC U PQ CL ASSES FILL U THE FALL! R O F R E T IS G E US SOON TO R

While parents rejoice at sending the kids back to school this fall, some of their children are dreading returning to the classroom – and not for the reasons you might think. For too many kids – one in four according to research - back to school means back to bullying. PREVNet (http://www.prevent.ca), a national network of leading researchers and organizations working to stop bullying, offers these tips for parents:

FOR A SCHEDULE OF CLASSES, LOCATION AND COSTS PLEASE VISIT:

A Kelowna company called Just Be FriendsTM (jbfkids.com) is doing its part to reduce negative social behaviors by sponsoring an innovative contest. The A Million Acts of Friendship video contest challenges families across the country to create and submit a short video that captures what friendship means to them for the chance to win up to $2,500 worth of prizes.

Arc-en-ciel/Rainbow Child Enrichment Centre Licensed facility for toddlers to after school program offering French. Lots of outdoor time and field trips. Now accepting September registration for 3 to 5 year old full day and half day programs. Call Sylvie - Certified Early Childhood Educator with over 20 years experience.

The top prize includes $1,000 for the winner, a $1,000 for their school, an Apple iPad Mini, and more. The contest closes October 14, 2013. To view, or submit, videos, visit http://www. youtube.com/jbfkids. n

To book a visit at our centre:

Phone: 250.549.4265 Cell: 250.938.4145 Email: slick11@shaw.ca

Karen Mason is the head of PR and communications for Just Be Friends (jbfkids.com), a Kelowna-based, social education platform that connects families and builds communities.

www.okanagan4kids.com

Great c entr 2903 - al location! 24th S Vernon treet , BC

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

BOYS FASHION

Affordable Back-to-School Style for Boys With summer coming to an end, most families are preparing to send their kids back to school. As a momma with twin boys headed to Kindergarten this September I don’t know whether I should be jumping for joy or bawling my eyes out. More than likely I will be doing both as I prepare to send my guys to school for the first time. One of the most challenging back to school tasks that we face may be purchasing a back to school wardrobe for boys. They might have grown out of their old clothes, developed a new sense of style or simply have worn out a beloved pair of jeans {or two}. Often affordability is the number one priority for parents while style may be at the top of the list for kids. So how do we combine the two? Affordability for parents and style for kids, into looks that our boys will love?

Modeled by Cameron. Photographed by: Heather Painchaud

Modeled by Isaiah. Photographed by: Heather Painchaud

Stretch their wardrobe from summer to fall.

• • • •

Create layers for fall with a new hoodie, while utilizing current wardrobe staples. Upcycle a long sleeve t-shirt by cutting off sleeves that have become too short. Add fun accessories to current looks. Hats, scarves, vests, bracelets or necklaces. Upcycle a pair of too short jeans into shorts by cutting the legs off.

Create a budget. Spend money on the essentials. Purchase high use items that give you the most bang for your buck. Shoes, jackets and hoodies for example.

Rock Hero

Add personal do-it-yourself touches.

• • •

Make a superhero necklace together. Pick up some fabric markers to embellish a plain t-shirt or a pair of shoes Create a unique, one of a kind look with fabric paint and a freezer paper stencil.

Tank Top: Upcycled TCP [$4.99] Superhero Necklace: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$1.50] Superhero Belt: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$1.99] Cool Cuff: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$0.25] Jeans: TCP the childrens place [$9.99] Cordouroy Shoes: TCP the childrens place [$5.99]

Be thrifty. Buy second hand. Try to buy items that will compliment other articles of clothing currently in your child’s wardrobe. Pair thrifted items with new and DIY styles for a unique look. Shop sales in advance.

• • •

Always plan to shop a few seasons ahead of time. Sign up for retailer emails and utilize company coupons. Frequently check stores for sales.

Host a clothing swap party. Invite fellow parents with kids of all ages. The larger the gathering the more selection each family will have. Encourage kids to pick out and bring gently used clothing that they no longer wear. Lay out items like you would see them in a store and have kids “shop” for a few “new” pieces of clothing. n

Total: $24.71

Superman Bow Tie: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$2] Superman T-shirt: Thrifted [$3.99] Long Sleeve Dress Shirt: Thrifted [$2.99] Leather Wrap Bracelet: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$1.50] Jeans: GAP [$11.99] Shoes: TCP the childrens place [$5.99]

DIY Star Wars T-shirt Bobo Fett T-shirt: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$0.25] Upcycled Belt Cuff: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$.50] Jeans: Joe [$8.99] Flip Flops: TCP the childrens place [$3.99]

Total: $28.46

Total: $13.73

Modeled by Isaiah. Photographed by: J Birchwater Photography

Visit Twin Dragonfly Designs for do-it-yourself tutorials and weekly “What We Wore Wednesday” little boy style posts.

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

www.okanagan4kids.com

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

BOYS FASHION

Reversible Superhero Vest

Star Wars Infinity

Hat: TCP the childrens place [$3.99] Reversible Superhero Vest: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$5] White Polo: Thrifted [$2.99] Cool Cuff: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$0.25] Jeans: TCP the childrens place [$9.99] Shoes: Thrifted [$3.99]

Sun Glasses: TCP the childrens place [$1.99] Velcro Infinity Scarf: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$2.99] Robot T-shirt: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$0.25] Leather Cuff: Local artist at the Vernon Farmers Market [trade $0] Skull Shorts: TCP the childrens place [$5.99] DC Shoes: Premium Label Outlet [$25]

Total: $26.21

Total: $36.22

Modeled by Cameron. Photographed by: Heather Painchaud

Camo Capri Pants

Upcycled Tank Top

Hat: TCP the childrens place [$5.99] Knit Hoodie: GAP [$12.99] White Polo: Thrifted [$2.99] Bike Bracelet: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$1.50] Camo Pants: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$5] Leather Boots: TCP the childrens place [$5.99]

Tank Top: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$0.25] Skull Belt: Dragonfly Designs DIY [$1.99] Jeans: TCP the childrens place [$9.99] Leather Cuff: Local artist at the Vernon Farmers Market [trade $0] DC Shoes: Premium Label Outlet [$25]

Total: $37.23

Total: $34.46

Modeled by Cameron. Photographed by: J Birchwater Photography

Modeled by Cameron. Photographed by: Heather Painchaud

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

www.okanagan4kids.com

Modeled by Isaiah. Photographed by: Heather Painchaud

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

APPS FOR KIDS

Fun & Educational Apps for Kids We all know its important to balance screen time with other activities like unstructured play, sports and arts. Let’s face it, a lot of us allow our kids to play games from time to time on our phones, tablets or the computer so why not make their time online fun and educational? I’ve researched (and tested with my son) some of the popular ‘educational apps for kids’ and listed my favorites for you here.

FEATURE now available in Canada!

! L O O H C S r e c Xara Soc Four educational soccer programs Story based learning that excites players Ball and Uniform included Age and Skill appropriate

ENDLESS ALPHABET

SUPER WHY

FARM 123

We featured this app in our Okanagan4Kids. com Baby & Toddler Guide and it has continued to be a family favourite! It features a collection of words in a fun and interactive story experience told by cute monsters. Kids learn letter sounds, spelling and word definitions.

This is an extension of the popular Super Why tv show for kids which encourages letter recognition, reading, writing, rhyming and more. Hayden loves the show so it was no surprise that he loves this one as well. Designed for kids ages 3-6 years.

This app was awarded Kids App of the Year in 2012. It’s an interactive pop-up book that helps teach preschoolers to count.

n Free and IAP (in-app purchase) for the iPhone/iPad

$3.99 for iPhone/iPad and $3.10 for Android

Safe Soccer program Player certificates

Free for iPhone/iPad

250-470-7496 BUGS AND NUMBERS Learning numbers has never been more fun! This game features creepy crawly bugs that help your child learn everything from basic counting to early fractions. My son loves the disco ball feature which makes the bugs start dancing and spinning around the screen! n $2.99 for the iPhone/iPad

ULTIMATE DINOPEDIA: COMPLETE DINOSAUR REFERENCE We just love National Geographic publications and this app is just as great as their print material. It documents more than 700 dinosaurs and provides fun facts, videos and more. n

$4.99 for iPad

BAD PIGGIES We really like this app because not only is it a fun game but you gain basic engineering skills by building the ultimate vehicle to get your piggy to the finish line.

www.weteachswimming.ca

Free for iPhone/iPad and Android

Sue is a mother to two amazing kids under the age of 5. She is also Okanagan4Kids’ Founder and Director of Operations. When she’s not spending time with her family or finding fun things for Okanagan families to do she enjoys reading and building websites for small businesses. Check her out at www.websavvydesign.ca!

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

www.okanagan4kids.com

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

LETS TALK ABOUT PUBERTY

FABULOUS FINDS

Fabulous Finds... We love to shop local and support small business! Here are a few of the best-selling back to school products this year. Personalized Storybooks

GoGreen Lunchbox

Kick-Start the School Year with an educational Personalized Storybook your kids will read over and over again. Children are excited as they read their name, friends’ names and hometown in their very own story! Over 40 book titles available, including My First Day of School which helps prepare them for this special milestone!

The Go Green Lunchbox set comes with an insulated fabric carrier, a five-compartment food container, and a stainless steel bottle that will hold eight ounces of fluid – all leach and lead-free. Turn ‘n lock technology ensures lunch stays fresh. Many colors and patterns available.

Website: www.storyisyours.com

Cost: $44 Contact: Scallwags Kelowna, 101-2903 Pandosy St., Kelowna. www.scallywagskelowna.com

Puberty... Lets talk about it! It’s back to school time and parents are busy helping kids prepare, ensuring that school supplies, new clothes, and extra-curricular activities are all ready to go! This is often an exciting time for kids and sometimes a bit nerve-wracking, especially if they’ll be entering a new school. However, one thing that may be imminent, but not necessarily something anyone is thinking or talking about, is puberty. Even though it happens to all of us, puberty is something many parents are uncomfortable discussing in detail with their children, but it’s so important that they do! As a parent you may think you have plenty of time to gear up for this talk, but keep in mind that although the onset of puberty usually begins between the ages of 9-14, it can sometimes begin earlier.

Food Wrap by Keep Leaf The Reusable Food & Sandwich Wrap is great to wrap your sandwich, bagel and other food items and also doubles as a mat. A great solution for litter-less lunches. 100% cotton exterior with waterproof liner to help keep food fresher for longer. Easy and secure Velcro closure. Lead, Phthalate and BPA free. Cost: $6 Contact: Mint Maternity & Baby, 1829 Harvey Avenue, Kelowna. www.mintkelowna.com

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

Here are some ways you can help prepare and support your child during this potentially confusing, exciting and awkward phase in their life:

BNTO by Cuppow BNTO (ben-toh) is the newest canning jar adapter for bringing great food with you on the go! Cuppow took inspiration from Japanese bento boxes and created a conveniently shaped insert that separates a canning jar into two compartments so you can mix or dip like a champ. Cost: $10 Contact: Mint Maternity & Baby, 1829 Harvey Avenue, Kelowna. www.mintkelowna.com

www.okanagan4kids.com

Talk to them BEFORE the onset of puberty! This should involve a “heads up” of things to expect, such as the physical and emotional changes that will happen. You can also provide reading material that can further explain and aid the discussion. Reassure them of the NORMALCY of all the changes that might occur! Remember that this can be a time of mixed emotions for children and most will experience www.okanagan4kids.com

some combination of fear, excitement and confusion. You can temper some of this by talking to them and reminding them that EVERYONE goes through puberty, each at their own pace and in their own way. Get them involved in SPORTS & PHYSICAL ACTIVITY! There are few times in a child’s life when they will feel more insecure about their appearance, facing rapid changes and an onslaught of unrealistic standards from the media. Research indicates that sports can temper this and help increase self-esteem! Tell them you will ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS they may have along the way! This will not only help during this transitional phase, but will also set the stage for open communication down the road which you will VERY much appreciate in their teen years! If there is a question that you don’t know the answer to, tell them you’ll find it! You can also provide information on managing some of the more ‘challenging’ aspects of puberty (i.e.

mood swings, spontaneous erections, acne, etc.) Be a good ROLE MODEL!!! Research repeatedly shows that the same-sex parent is the primary role model for a child. This plays a major role in weight and body issues (NOT just for girls!) Among other things, this means don’t discuss dieting or weight, not just your child’s, but also your own! Don’t talk about others’ weight or appearance either! Help them shift the focus of importance and remember that even if you tell your child that they are attractive, but that you aren’t, that can be harmful to them! Have FUN with your kids during this transitional time! This stage signifies the transformation from a child into a teenager so treasure the time and the person they are becoming before it passes you by. n Katie Domries is a mother and the owner of Birds, Bees & Beyond Education and Consulting. Find her on Facebook @birdsbeesandbeyond

Okanagan4Kids.com Back to School Guide | 2013

ADVERTISE WITH US

Kelowna’s Unique Children’s Boutique

Scallywags cares for growing feet.

wls nre riva a

Want to be seen by thousands of parents? Okanagan4Kids.com is the Okanagan Valley’s #1 Resource for Families!

E-GUIDE ADVERTISING We publish six digital e-guides per year which contain helpful and entertaining information for Okanagan parents. If you are a business and want to be seen by thousands of families contact us today for more information and pricing.

Back to school shoes by Geox, Stride Rite and TOMS! Check out our fabulous selection of fun clothing for boys and girls. Follow us on facebook @scallywagskelowna

www.ScallywagsKelowna.com

#101-2903 Pandosy Street, Kelowna

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ISSUE Spring Break Summer Camp Summer Activity Back to School Birthday Party

BOOKING/DEPOSIT DUE February 11 May 20 June 17 August 10 September 16

AD MATERIAL DUE February 18 May 27 June 24 August 15 September 23

Winter Activity

October 28

November 4

CONTENT SUBMISSIONS We encourage everyone to submit articles, stories and resources on a wide variety of family related topics. This content should not contain any advertising, rather interesting family-friendly content for our readers to enjoy! You will receive credit for the article, including your URL and business name.

OKANAGAN4KIDS.COM BABY & TODDLER GUIDE The Okanagan4Kids.com Baby & Toddler Guide is the premiere baby & toddler magazine in the Okanagan. The only one of its kind providing a valuable and comprehensive resource for Okanagnan parents. Now booking ad space for the 2014 Edition which will be released February 2014.

COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR Have an upcoming event? Tell us about it and we will include it in our event calendar online - free of charge!

For more information visit us online or contact us at advertise@okanagan4kids.com

FAMILY DIRECTORY LISTING Get noticed 24/7 with a dedicated business listing page on Okanagan4Kids.com! Your business page is fully customizeable and SEO optimized for better online exposure and can be updated as needed. An annual listing is only $115 plus GST!

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Summer 2013

2! Win an iPad

2013 Edition

| FREE