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KIDSCLUB DAYCARE & LEARNING CENTRE 104 Advance Rd.
416-236-2863 February 2013
2 | TORONTO KIDS - February 2013
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TORONTO KIDS - February 2013 | 3
specialevents
Celebrate Black History Month Every February, Canadians are invited to participate in Black History Month festivities and events that honour the legacy of black Canadians, past and present. It’s a time to celebrate the many achievements and contributions of black Canadians who, throughout history, have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate and prosperous nation that it is today. During Black History Month Canadians can
gain insight into the experiences of black Canadians and the vital role this community has played throughout our history. There are a few family-friendly events taking place in Toronto to mark Black History Month, inviting kids and their parents to explore and celebrate the heritage, traditions and culture of African-Canadians. – Toronto4kids.com
Kuumba at Harbourfront
Mackenzie House celebrates Black History Month on Family Day
February 1 - 3 Toronto’s longest-running and largest celebration of Black History Month has become synonymous with showcasing the best local and international artists of African heritage. Join us for three days of music, theatre, food, dance, visual arts, family activities, and more. Kuumba is part of the TD Then & Now Black History Month Series. Harbourfront Centre 416-973-4000,www.harbourfrontcentre.com
February 18 - 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM Visit Mackenzie House on Family Day and learn more about the early Black community in Toronto, including those who published newspapers. Print a souvenir copy of Mary Ann Shadd Cary’s newspaper, The Provincial Freeman, in our re-created 1850s printshop! Children can try illumination colouring previously drawn and printed pictures - which was a popular practice in the 19th century. 416-392-6915, www.toronto.ca/museums-events
Black History Month in Canada
Despite a presence in Canada that dates back farther than Samuel de Champlain’s first voyag e down the St. Lawrence River, people of African desce nt are often absent from Canadian history books . There is little mention of the fact that slavery once existed in the territory that is now Canada, or that many of the Loyalists who came here after the American Revolution and settled in the Maritimes were Blacks. Few Canadians are aware of the many sacrifices made in wartime by black Canadian soldiers, as far back as the War of 1812. In an attempt to heighten awareness of black histor y in the United States, historian Carter G. Wood son proposed an observance to honour the accom plishments of black Americans. This led to the establishment of Negro History Week in 1926. Woodson is believed to have chosen February for this observance because the birthdays of the renow ned abolitionist Frederick Douglass (February 14) and former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln (February 12) fall in this month. During the early 1970s, the week became know n as Black History Week. It was expanded into Black History Month in 1976. In December 1995, the House of Commons offi cially recognized February as Black History Month , following a motion introduced by the first black Canadian woman elected to Parliament, the Honourable Jean Augustine. The motion was carrie d unanimously by the House of Commons. In February 2008, Senator Donald Oliver, the first black man appointed to the Senate, introd uced a motion to have the Senate officially recognize Febru ary as Black History Month. It received unanimous approval and was adopted on March 4, 2008. The adoption of this motion completed Canad a’s parliamentary position on Black History Month . Senator Anne Cools was the first black woma n to be appointed to the Senate.
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4 | TORONTO KIDS - February 2013
Kung Hei Fat Choy! Chinese New Year is a very old celebration. It’s a time for repaying debts, enjoying feasts, giving "red envelopes" of lucky money to friends and relatives, and remembering ancestors. According to the Chinese calendar, the year you were born may determine your personality. Every year is represented by an animal, and legend has it that people born under that animal have certain personality traits.
IT’S THE YEAR OF THE SNAKE! About snakes: They have great instincts. Some "play dead" to fool predators, and most sense prey by detecting ground vibrations. They can take more than an hour to swallow a meal,
and they become inactive for up to two weeks before they shed their skin. Are you born in the year of the Snake? You rely on your instincts before asking others their opinions. At times you want to take a break from the action. It's not that you're lazy—sometimes you just like to think. Other Snake Years: 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013 The Snake is been a symbol of determination and persistence. The Snake is blessed with extraordinary inner strength and is considered one of the most perceptive and intense animals in the Chinese Zodiac. – Toronto4kids.com
Chinese New Year Celebrations in Toronto: The Year of the Snake at Scarborough Town Centre Welcome the Year of the Snake with an exciting lineup of events and cultural activities including: traditional Chinese folk dancing, thunder drums, the God of Fortune, eye dotting ceremony, waking up the lion’s ceremony and a tai chi demonstration. Visitors can also enjoy the free Year of the Snake photo booth. February 9, 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM www.scarboroughtowncentre.com Toronto Zoo Celebrates The Year Of The Snake Join us as we celebrate the 2013 Chinese New Year – Year of the Snake! Visit some of our fascinating snakes in indoor tropical pavilions
C.J. Skateboard Park & School
and learn more about these amazing creatures! Snakes need love too! Bring a valentine for your favourite snake and kids (aged 4-12) receive half price admission! www.TorontoZoo.com Chinese New Year Carnival China 2013 Legend of China Production brings you directly from China a magnificent troupe - Chinese New Tear Carnival China. The show features amazing Chinese acrobats and dancers performing in-front of a live 42-member Chinese orchestra, accompanying spectacular performances of balancing acts, beautiful dancing, magic shows and breath-taking dare devil feats… great entertainment for the entire family. Hosted by Canada
China Cultural Development Association. Toronto Centre for the Arts February 16, 2:30 PM & 8:00 PM www.legendofchina.net Chinese New Year at Lillian Smith Library Come and celebrate the Year of the Snake at Lillian Smith Library! Chinese Zodiac Signs Face Painting for Children at 1 pm; - Toronto Lion Dance & Martial Arts; Wu Shu Kung Fu Demonstration; 2013 Feng Shui Forecast Talk by Paul Mak; Classical Chinese Musical performances; Toronto Yoga Center presents Chinese Music & Dance; and Free Chinese New Year Scrolls February 16, 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM www.torontopubliclibrary.ca, 416-393-7746
Never been on a skateboard? Not sure if your son/daughter will like it? Inquire about our 6 lessons for $6 program.
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Age/skill level instruction with skilled instructors • Morning group stretching and structured lessons • Healthy snacks (morning/afternoon), balanced lunch, and all are served with Gatorade or water • Fun extras! Special guests, instructor demos, contests, organized games and/or activities, arts & crafts, weekly swimming day, theme day, magic show and more! (We bring in activity instructors so campers are not just skateboarding all day.) • Evaluation report and personalized Certificate of Completion
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TORONTO KIDS - February 2013 | 5
Meet Our Hero:
Lilah Petersiel Tami and Eric were shocked to learn that their first child, Lilah, was born with neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer. During Tami’s pregnancy, a routine ultrasound revealed that Lilah had only one kidney. Upon her birth, Lilah was transferred to The Hospital for Sick Children, and was quickly diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a rare and deadly cancer that develops in the adrenal glands, above the kidneys, and can spread to other organs. Lilah’s tumour and affected adrenal gland were surgically removed when she was only two weeks. But when Lilah was about three months old, a CT scan found the cancer spread to her liver. This time, the treatment was more severe for the infant. Lilah had two rounds of chemotherapy, a surgical resection of approximately one third of her liver, followed by two more rounds of chemotherapy. Lilah finished her treatment in
Dec. 2004 and since then has had a clean bill of health. She returns to SickKids annually for checkups and follow-up to study the long term impact of chemotherapy. In order to develop better cures for neuroblastoma, Lilah’s parents established an event to raise money for neuroblastoma research. To date, ‘Lilah’s Fund’ has raised more than $680,000 to support neuroblastoma research at SickKids. Lilah’s Fund has hosted many events over the past several years, most notably, “Sunday in the Park with Lilah” (a family fun day) and “Lil’ Monkey Jam” (a concert for the entire family). Lilah has also hosted several ECHOage parties already. Guests areinvitedtoanECHOagebirthday party online. Instead of bringing a wrapped and packaged present to the party, they RSVP and give a secure online contribution. Contributions are pooled together, half is sent to the parent hosting the
party and the birthday boy or girl chooses any gift or gifts they want. The other half is sent by ECHOage to the charity the birthday boy or girl has chosen to support. Lilah’s mom,Tami, thinks ECHOage parties are a great way to raise funds for SickKids and to teach Lilah about the importance of charity. Lilah is planning another ECHOage party this spring and, in addition to the iPod she hopes to receive, is planning to help cure childhood cancer through donations to Lilah’s Fund at SickKids. For more information, visit www.sickkidsfoundation.com or www. www.echoage.com/charities/sickkids.
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6 | TORONTO KIDS - February 2013
valentinesday HOST A
Valentines’ Party! Valentine’s Day is often a time for adult couples to show their affection. But Valentine’s Day is a fun time for kids, too. Kids often enjoy handing out and receiving Valentine’s Day cards, and the annual Valentine’s Day party. Parents hosting the party this year can make the most of their holiday party with the following tips. ♥ Let kids make the invitations: Kids will get a kick out of making Valentine’s Day invitations for all their friends. Tools of the trade include construction paper, glitter, stickers, and any other accessories kids might feel are necessary. Parents who want to go the extra mile can take their kids around the neighborhood to hand deliver the invitations to their friends. ♥ Go big with balloons: No kids party is complete without balloons, and a Valentine’s Day party should include pink, red and white balloons.
If time permits, create an archway of balloons at the front door or tie balloons to the mailbox so other parents know where to drop the kids off. ♥ Don’t forget the candy and cupcakes: Kids might have ulterior motives for enjoying Valentine’s Day that go beyond giving and receiving valentines. Candy and cupcakes are as much a part of Valentine’s Day for kids as they are for adults. Chocolate and cupcakes are favorites for kids and adults alike on Valentine’s Day, so be sure to have some on hand for the party. ♥ Host a few Valentine’s themed games: Instead of standard fare like “Pin the Tail On the Donkey,” spice things up for Valentine’s Day with a few games with a Valentine’s Day theme. If the weather permits, host a Valentine’s scavenger hunt in the backyard. Include prizes like Val-
entine’s stickers and, of course, chocolate. If the weather is too cold for a scavenger hunt, plan other activities that can be done indoors. This can include some dancing to kids’ favorite music or even letting kids decorate the house themselves with Valentine’s themed decora-
tions they made at the party. ♥ Accessorize: For the party, purchase heartshaped plates and red, pink or white utensils for the kids to eat with. For dessert, serve up a heart-shaped chocolate cake. – Metro Services
Shall We Dance?!
KIDS DANCE PROGRAMS FOR 2013/2014
MOMS&TOTS ~ BALLET ~ HIP-HOP ~ KINDERDANCE ~ LATIN BALLROOM ~ BIRTHDAY PARTIES AGES: 2.5 – 8 years old
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Tel: 416-502-2333 Shall We Dance Studio
www.shallwedance.ca info@shallwedance.ca 511 McNicoll Ave., Unit 205, Toronto, ON, M2H 2C9
TORONTO KIDS - February 2013 | 7
valentinesday
Valentine’s Day in T.O. Looking for some Valentine’s Family Fun? Check out what’s happening in the city on February 14:
BCS Summer Language Camp A residential summer camp for boys and girls ages 11–16
Valentine Card Making Family Workshop
Valentine Candy Making Family Workshop
Feb 3, 2013 - 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm Create personalized Valentine Cards to share with loved ones while you learn about the history of Valentine’s Day. Refreshments provided. Cost: Adult $15; Children $8 (plus tax). Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum and Arts Centre 416-396-2819 www.toronto.ca/museums-events
Feb 10, 2013 - 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm Discover the joy of making old-fashioned candy and chocolates in the historic kitchen. These treats are perfect for sharing as Valentine delights or to savour on your own! Cost: Adults $20; Children $15 (plus tax). Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum and Arts Centre 416-396-2819 www.toronto.ca/museums-events
Valentines Day at Toronto Zoo
Sweet Valentine Family Sunday at The McMichael Canadian Art Collection
Bilingual sports and recreational programmes
Feb 10, 2013 Join famous chef Joseph Montinaro at 1:30 p.m. for a special chocolatemaking demonstration, explore the story of this popular treat through a storytelling session, and engage in special Valentine art workshops. Part of Family Sundays series. McMichael Canadian Art Collection 905-893-1121 or 1-888-213-1121 www.mcmichael.com
Small classes with students from around the world
Feb 9, 2013 to Feb 10, 2013 - 9:30 am until 4:30 pm Snakes need love too! Bring a valentine for your favourite snake and kids (aged 4-12) receive half price admission! Toronto Zoo 416-392-5929 www.torontozoo.com
Valentine’s Cupcakes and Teddy Bears at Casa Loma Feb 9, 2013 - 10:00 am Bring your Teddy to Casa Loma to Celebrate Valentine’s Day. Following a reading of Little Red Riding Hood, all children will get to enjoy juice and cookies while they decorate a dozen freshly bakes mini- cupcakes. Price: Children: $17.50 + HST Adults: $21.00+ HST. General admission to Casa Loma is included. Pre-registration required. 647-725-1826 www.casaloma.org
Classroom instruction in English or French
June 30 – July 27, 2013
FOR UPDATED VALENTINE’S DAY LISTINGS, VISIT WWW.TORONTO4KIDS.COM.
NORDIC ADVENTURES A T
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Season Passes / Gift Certificates High–altitude Snow Conditions
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of summer fun! www.BishopsCollegeSchool.com
Just 1-1/2 hours North of Toronto 705 446-0256 ext 223 sceniccaves.com
Summer@BishopsCollegeSchool.com • (819) 566-0227 ext. 319 • Sherbrooke, QC
8 | TORONTO KIDS & FAMILIES - February 2013
februaryevents February Weekends at Scarborough Museum
Feb 2 - Feb 24 - 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Celebrate the month of love!! Warm up with some cider, sample chocolaty treats and share what you love about Scarborough! Family activities include baking, crafts and more! Admission is Pay What You Can. Scarborough Museum 416-338-8807 www.toronto.ca/museums
Romance of the Rails - LAST RUNS in Liberty Village
Feb 2 - 18 - 11:00 am until 5:00 pm The Romance of the Rails – FAMILY DAY very LAST RUN in Liberty Village show event as presented by the Model Railroad Club of Toronto. Come and see the O scale Central Ontario Railway, the largest model railroad in Canada. Painstakingly created with over 67 years of effort. Watch as dozens of trains traverse through the Ontario landscape, passing cities, towns, lakes, rivers. Great family fun for a wintery afternoon. Fun for kids of all ages 3 to 93. Cost: Adults $10, Seniors $8, Children $6 - Cash Only. Model Railroad Club of Toronto 416-536-8927 www.modelrailroadclub.com
Stinky Kids: The Musical
Feb 2 to Apr 27 StinkyKid Britt loves making everyone happy. But this girl who never gets in trouble is in a sticky situation – literally: She has an impossibly epic wad of gum stuck in her hair. All of Britt’s friends are depending on her parents to take them to the new MegaJumper 3000 at Captain Happy’s Jumpy-Fun-Super-Bouncy Indoor Place, so she definitely doesn’t want to disappoint anyone. Tickets $29.50. Lower Ossington Theatre 416-915-6747 www.lowerossingtontheatre.com
Music & Truffles - Classical Music for Family Enjoyment
Feb 3 - 1:15 pm until 2:15 pm Designed for young people ages 5 to 15, Music & Truffles is also a great series for adults just starting to explore the mysteries and ecstasies of great music - you are not required to bring a child, and you will get a truffle at the end anyway! $13 per ticket. Walter Hall (UofT) 416-922-3714x103 www.mooredaleconcerts.com
Aboriginal Winter Activities at Kortright
Feb 3 - 17 - 1:00 pm & 2:30 pm For aboriginal children, winter was a time for games to develop hunting skills, storytelling, and helping around the home.Join us for a fun filled hike as we try out a few winter aboriginal activities. Kortright Centre for Conservation 9550 Pine Valley Drive, Woodbridge 905-832-2289 www.kortright.org
The Power of Harriet T!
Feb 4 - 22 The Power of Harriet T! is the powerful, true story of Harriet Tubman, who led hundreds of enslaved people to freedom and inspired hope for thousands more. Young People’s Theatre 416-862-2222 www.youngpeoplestheatre.ca
Here To Hear at Young People’s Theatre
Feb 4 - 21 Here to Hear is a joyful, interactive play about hearing the world of music through different ears. Young People’s Theatre 416-862-2222 www.youngpeoplestheatre.ca
CIBC LunarFest at Harbourfront
Feb 8 - 10 You are about to enter the jungle where lots of surprises are welcoming your arrival. Harbourfront Centre 416-973-4000 www.harbourfrontcentre.com
Canadian Motorsports Expo
Feb 8 -10 Gear up for the official start of the Canadian racing season at Canada’s ultimate racing show. The 7th Annual Canadian Motorsports Expo takes place February 8 -10 Toronto International Centre www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com
SLEEPOVER at the Science Centre!
Feb 9 and Feb 23 - 5:00 pm until 9:00 am Grab your sleeping bag and join us for an extraordinary night of science! FUN for the whole family! A great group event! A unique indoor camping experience! Ontario Science Centre 416-696-3256 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Sleepovers
Harlem Globetrotters 2013 World Tour
Feb 9 - 10 The legendary Harlem Globetrotters are bringing their 2013 World Tour back to Rogers Centre. On Saturday, February 9 and Sunday, February 10, fans will be entertained by the hilarious and charming team. Rogers Centre 855-985-5000 www.rogerscentre.com
High Park History - Family Nature Walk
Feb 9, 2013 - 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm High Park has a fascinating history - both human and natural. Staff from Colborne Lodge join the High Park Nature Centre staff to bring you entertaining stories of the people and happenings of the park from long ago. Colborne Lodge - High Park 416-392-6916 www.toronto.ca/museums
Downsview Park - Nature Connection
Feb 10 - 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm A FREE nature program for families. Connect with your natural world and come out to Downsview Park! All ages are welcome.
Downsview Park - Discovery Centre www.downsviewpark.ca
Super Fun P.A. Day Camp
Feb 15, 2013 - 9:00 am until 4:00 pm Scarborough Museum is the boredom buster for P.A. days! Bake over the open hearth, make crafts, play games, and explore Thomson Memorial Park. Campers bring a lunch and snacks. Pre-register online at toronto.ca/torontofun or call 416-338-4FUN. Scarborough Museum 416-338-8807 www.toronto.ca/torontofun
2013 Canadian International AutoShow
Feb 15, 2013 to Feb 24, 2013 AutoShow will dazzle you with over 600,000 square feet of incredible displays, great prize giveaways and features that you love plus some new ones too! From the ever-popular Auto Exotica, featuring the world’s finest automobiles to the Eco-Drive Showcase, where you will see the latest in fuel efficient technologies! Metro Toronto Convention Centre www.autoshow.ca
Canada's largest summer Camp expo! February 24, 2013 · 12-4 PM roy thoMson hall · toronto to get free admi ssio n
campexpo.ca
supporting
TORONTO KIDS & FAMILIES - February 2013 | 9
ongoingevents Punch and Judy - Puppet Allsorts
Feb 17 - 3:00 pm until 4:00 pm Come celebrate the 350th anniversary of the oldest puppet tradition on Earth, with Mike Petersen‘s good old fashioned Punch & Judy Show! It’s better than you remember it: the comedy, the violence, the whole darn thing. All ages. Zuke Studio 416-531-1290 http://puppetallsorts.com
Strawberry Shortcake with special guest The Doodlebops
Feb 17 - 1:00 pm Introducing an all-new musical production by Koba Entertainment starring the most spirited red-haired girl, Strawberry Shortcake, with special guest The Doodlebops! Sony Centre for the Performing Arts 855-872-7669 www.sonycentre.ca
Play “Friends In Need, Friends Indeed”
Feb 24 - 2:00 pm until 2:45 pm Suitcase Theatre is brought to you by the creator of Mr. Dressup! We are a not-for-profit organization dedicated to bringing quality theatre experiences to families. 4 Ticket Family Pack $25. All Saints Anglican Church 647-654-PLAY www.suitcasetheatreplays.eventbrite.ca
The Cat Came Back at YPT
Feb 28 - Mar 16 The remarkable trio of Fred Penner, Jay Brazeau and Kim Selody have joined together to create a brand new play. Based on the song Fred made universally famous, this fanciful tale explores conflicting wishes – wanting a mischievous cat to go away versus wishing the affectionate feline would come back. Young People’s Theatre 416-862-2222 www.youngpeoplestheatre.ca
½ Price Friday’s at Gardiner Museum
DJ Skate Saturday Nights
40th Anniversary Summit Series Tribute
Eyes on the Skies at the Science Centre
Admission is ½ price every Friday from 4–9pm and all day on the first Friday of every month. Visit our website for a complete listing of Friday night events. Weekends in January Gardiner Museum 416-586-8080 www.gardinermuseum.com For a limited time only at the Hockey Hall of Fame, guests can relive the most famous series in all of hockey. This special 40th anniversary display pays tribute to the 1972 Summit Series between Team Canada and the Soviet Union. Until March 31 Hockey Hall of Fame 416-360-7765 www.hhof.com
Born to be Wild
Born to be Wild is an inspiring story of love, dedication and the remarkable bond between humans and animals. This film documents orphaned orangutans and elephants and the extraordinary people who rescue and raise them – saving endangered species one life at a time. Ongoing Ontario Science Center 416-696-3127 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca
Collected in the Field: “Shoemaking Traditions from Around the World” at Bata Shoe Museum
Until Dec 31 Join us for our newest exhibition highlighting the history of shoemaking traditions, many of which are slowly disappearing. Bata Shoe Museum www.batashoemuseum.ca
It’s time, once again, to put some beat back into those blades! DJ Skate Saturday Nights returns to Harbourfront Centre this winter to showcase some of the country’s hottest DJs. Saturday nights in January Harbourfront Centre - The Natrel Rink 416-973-4866 www.harbourfrontcentre.com This one-of-a-kind, lively program introduces pre-school children to the night-time sky through singing, connect-the-stars constellations and a journey to the moon. The program was designed especially for our youngest visitors and lasts no longer than 20 minutes to accommodate wandering minds and little feet. All participants receive a certificate of landing on the moon and a follow-up activity guide. Ongoing Ontario Science Center 416-696-3127 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca
Family Days at Gardiner Museum
Bring the whole family to the Gardiner for funfilled days with programming geared towards the kids. Free with admission, and kids under 12 get in for free if accompanied by an adult. Includes films, tours for kids, craft tables & more. Every Sunday, 9 - 1 to 4 pm Gardiner Museum 416-586-8080 www.gardinermuseum.com
Hockey Hall of Fame - Stanley’s Game Seven (3D)
Hockey’s first 3D film is a stunning mix of 3D originally filmed hockey action teamed with computer-generated photo-realistic 3D animation and classic archival footage from some of the most renowned moments in Stanley Cup history – the film literally jumps off the screen. Until Dec 31 Hockey Hall of Fame 416-933-8215 www.hhof.com
Mirvish presents The Wizard of Oz
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s new production of The Wizard of Oz is an enchanting adaptation of the all-time classic, totally reconceived. Until Mar 31 Ed Mirvish Theatre 416-872-1212 www.mirvish.com/shows/thewizardofoz
The Natrel Rink
A popular skating destination in the heart of the city! Visitors can enjoy our artificiallycooled outdoor rink while skating to music and taking in the beautiful surroundings. Until Mar 10 416-973-4866 www.harbourfrontcentre.com
Public Skating at Evergreen Brick Works
Lace up this winter and take a skate on familyfriendly outdoor Ice Trail! It’s the perfect place for winter fun, as you wind through the gardens and enjoy nature in the city! Free. Until Feb 24 - 11:00 am until 4:00 pm 416-596-1495 ebw.evergreen.ca/whats-on/recreation/skating
To The Arctic
An extraordinary journey to the top of the world, To The Arctic is the ultimate tale of survival. Narrated by Meryl Streep. Ongoing Ontario Science Center 416-696-3127 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca
Ultimate Dinosaurs Take Over the ROM See some of the largest and most unusual dinosaurs to have ever roamed the planet at this new exhibition. Cutting Edge Technology and Hands-On Activities bring these Big, Bizarre, and Brand-New Dinos to Life. Until March 17 416-586-5797 www.rom.on.ca
Under the Sea
This film takes you into fascinating underwater locales such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Triangle for face-to-face encounters with some of the most mysterious and stunning creatures of the sea. Ongoing Ontario Science Center 416-696-3127 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca
Weekend Family Fun at the Bata Shoe Museum
Parents, the next time you hear “There’s nothing to do!” bring your children aged 3 to 9 over to the Museum to paint a mini-clog, try on shoes, and go on a treasure hunt in the galleries! Weekends in February Bata Shoe Museum 416-979-7799 x242 www.batashoemuseum.ca FOR MORE EVENTS, VISIT WWW.TORONTO4KIDS.COM
10 | TORONTO KIDS - February 2013
familyday
Celebrate Family! Looking to do something amazing on the Family Day long weekend as a family? It’s the first break since the holidays and there are lots of events to bring you cheer! Family Day is celebrated on the third Monday of February. It is a day for connecting with family, spending the day together and reiterating the importance of family time. Here’s what’s going on in the city…
“Do you have a fun, nurturing place where I can grow?” To become a Provider call today! Safe
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*Receive one child admission at $9.95 with each full priced adult admission. Please visit medievaltimes.com for details. May not be combined with any other offer or group rate. Tax, gratuity and applicable fees are additional. Upgrades are additional. Not valid on prior purchases. Valid only at the Toronto Castle. Offer expires 3/3/2013.
Call today: Toronto West
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It’ll fit your lifestyle 647-436-4572 weewatch.com/youtube
TORONTO KIDS - February 2013 | 11
familyday Family Days at Scarborough Museum
Feb 15 - 18 - 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Join the museum for lots of fun activities for the whole family. Pioneer crafts, scavenger hunts, wood stove baking, and hot chocolate for all! Admission is Pay What You Can. Scarborough Museum 416-338-8807, www.toronto.ca/museums
Family Fun Fest
Feb 16 - 18 The Best Indoor Family Fun Event in Ontario! Superior Events Group transforms over 30,000 square feet at Downsview Park into a large INDOOR FUN Zone just for Family Day weekend! Downsview Park 416-249-4000, www.familydayfest.com
Family Day Weekend at Toronto Zoo
Feb 16 -18 - 9:30 am until 4:30 pm Celebrate Family Day Weekend by visiting with some of the Zoo’s featured families such as the Western lowland gorillas, orangutans, Komodo dragons and hairy-nosed wombats, to name a few. 416-392-5929, www.torontozoo.com
Family Day Weekend: Carnival at the ROM
Feb 16 - 18 - 11:00 am until 4:00 pm Dazzling colour and vibrant displays of Carnival welcome you and the kids this Family Day Weekend! Make your own Carnival mask and visit the special exhibition Carnival: From Emancipation to Celebration. Plus, touch tables, stories and scavenger hunts help tell the stories and history of Carnival traditions from around the world. 416-586-5797, www.rom.on.ca
HarbourKIDS Skating Festival
Feb 17 - 18 Paint the town white this Family Day weekend! There’s something for the whole family to enjoy from skating and snow castles outside to dance competitions and Rap Battlez inside. Get involved in some interactive theatre, create a self portrait using various media, make a stuffed polar bear or create something original in LEGO®! Free. Harbourfront Centre 416-973-4000, www.harbourfrontcentre.com
Kids-Fest Toronto
Feb 17 - Feb 18 Kids-Fest is Canada’s Largest Indoor Inflatable Show, Bounce, laugh, play, run and scream in 60,000+ sq. ft. of some of North America’s largest indoor inflatables. Enjoy one of our stage shows, have your face painted or for a little extra you can enjoy a pony ride! Shop in our vendor’s market place! International Centre - Entrance 2 905-779-0422 , www.kids-fest.ca
Family Day at Mackenzie House
Feb 18 - 12:00 pm until 5:00 pm Visit Mackenzie House on Family Day and learn more about the early Black community in Toronto, including those who published newspapers. Print a souvenir copy of Mary Ann Shadd Cary’s newspaper, The Provincial Freeman, in our re-created 1850s printshop! Children can try illumination - colouring previously drawn and printed pictures - which was a popular practice in the 19th century. Included with regular admission. Mackenzie House 416-392-6915, www.toronto.ca/museums
Family Day at Spadina Museum
Feb 18 - 12:00 am until 5:00 pm It’s a Kid’s Life tours at 12:15, 1, 1:45, 2:30, 3:15 and 4 pm. Bring the whole family for fun and games in this fascinating, hands-on tour. Experience the luxurious world of the Austin children, and all the rules that went with it and the working class lives of the chauffeur’s son and daughter. Live the life of a 1920s and 30s child through toys, games, school lessons and more. Spadina Museum: Historic House & Gardens 285 Spadina Road, Toronto 416-392-6910, www.toronto.ca/museums
Family Day Tea Time for Teddy Bears
Feb 18 - 11:00 am This Family Day what will you take to Grandmother’s House? Can you imagine anything more enchanting than bringing your Teddy Bear to Casa Loma for tea time and story telling? Following a reading of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, everyone will enjoy a freshly baked scone, jam and tea or hot chocolate while the children decorate their own bearshapped cookies. All children will be able to take home their decorated cookies in a basket. 647-725-1826, www.casaloma.org
Family Day at Todmorden Mills
Feb 18 - 12:00 pm until 4:00 pm Family Day - Drop in and learn about Owls in the Valley! Learn all about owls and what they eat by dissecting a real owl pellet. Make your own take-home owl themed craft. Explore our 19th-century historic homes and sample tasty treats prepared on the open hearth. Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum and Arts Centre 416-396-2819, www.toronto.ca/museums
Native Child and Family Services of Toronto
FOSTER CARE PROGRAM We are seeking loving homes In the Toronto and Greater Toronto Area who want to make a difference in a child’s life. We need foster families that are interested in caring for Aboriginal children, have a willingness to work within our diverse community, and have a fundamental respect for Aboriginal children and their culture. We provide training, support, relief and compensation to our homes.
Please contact our Foster Care Hotline at
(416)969-8510 ext. 7788
Celebrate Family Day on Toronto’s Waterfront
Feb 18 FREE Family Day fun for kids of all ages is only footsteps away at Family Day on Toronto’s Waterfront presented by The Waterfront BIA on Monday, February 18 along the Waterfront, ALL day long. Enjoy dog sport demos and arts and crafts! Toronto Waterfront - Various locations 416-596-9821, www.waterfrontbia.com
FREE Family Day Fun at Fantasy Fair!
Feb 18 - 10:00 am until 6:00 pm Ontario’s largest indoor amusement park delights children ages 3 to 11 with 9 full size rides and a giant 3-level Play Village, family arcade, midway and more! Fantasy Fair is open on Family Day, Monday February 18, from 10 AM to 6 PM. Free shows include Th Balloonatic’s amazing balloon giveaways, The Trevor Show- interactive dance show and WHIMZ, a live animal show! 416-674-5437, www.fantasyfair.ca
Kids FREE at the Hockey Hall of Fame on Family Day
Feb 18, 2013 - 10:00 am until 5:00 pm KIDS are FREE at the Hockey Hall of Fame on Family Day! PLUS, each youth will recieve a FREE muffin compliments of Marché Restaurant. Head down to the Hockey Hall of Fame this Family Day where a thrilling experience awaits the entire family – games to play, a replica NHL dressing room, larger-than-life statues, a new 3D film, and an awesome collection of hockey sticks, pucks and sweaters from around the world including hands-on access to hockey’s Holy Grail, the Stanley Cup! *Max. 4 youth (13yrs & under) admitted
FREE with purchase of adult admission. Hockey Hall of Fame 416-360-7765, www.hhof.com
Family Day at Montgomery’s Inn
Feb 18, 2013 - 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm Bring the family to Montgomery’s Inn for an Irish Ceilidh! Maureen O’Leary of Maureen’s Reel Irish Dancing will teach a dance workshop at 2 p.m. and then host a ceilidh at 4 p.m. Resident storyteller, Nan Brien, will share delightful tales that feature puppetry at 1:30 and 3 p.m. Join the cooks in the historic kitchen while they prepare tasty treats over the fire. No pre-registration required. Cost: Adults $5.71, Seniors & Youth $2.86, Children $1.90 (plus tax). Montgomery’s Inn www.toronto.ca/museums
Family Day at Fort York
Feb 18, 2013 - 11:00 am until 4:00 pm Explore Toronto’s diverse and exciting history at Fort York. Visit the Fort’s historic kitchen and sample some traditional (and delicious!) baking from the hearth. Hot chocolate and a roaring fire will make this a heartwarming and memorable visit. Adults $7.96, Seniors $3.81, Youth $4.87, Children $3.76 Fort York National Historic Site 416-392-6907, www.toronto.ca/museums
FOR AN UP-TO-DATE LIST OF FAMILY DAY EVENTS, VISIT: WWW.TORONTO4KIDS.COM/CALENDAR.
12 | TORONTO KIDS - February 2013
Does your child’s school get a passing grade?
A healthy favourite Prep time: 8 minutes Bake time: 15 minutes Serves: 2 Serving Size: ½ pita Calories per serving: 202 Making your own version of your favourite take-out meals at home means you can control the amount of sodium and fat your family is consuming without compromising on flavour. If you stock your freezer with whole-wheat pita and your pantry with healthy pasta
Currently interviewing For September 2013 and January 2014 We give Academic Scholarships for Grades 7, 8 & 9
We know educators with the right attitude can profoundly impact a student’s entire life. If your child isn’t being encouraged and challenged at his or her current school, make an appointment to speak with us.
49 Mobile Drive, Toronto 416-285-0870 www.MetroPrep.com
sauce, you will always have the base for a perfect Pitazza at a moment’s notice. Healthy cooking tip: To add protein to your Pitazza without the extra sodium, roast a whole chicken. Remove the meat and store in your fridge. Freeze the bones for when you have spare time to make your own, low-sodium chicken broth. Ingredients: • 125 mL garlic and herb
pasta sauce • 1 90g whole wheat pita, split in half to make 2 circles • 125 mL) finely sliced peppers (red, orange and/ or yellow) • 125 mL sliced mushrooms • 50 mL minced red onion • 2 tbsp. low-fat feta cheese crumbled or your favourite low-fat cheese Directions: • Preheat oven to 400F/205C. • On large baking sheet arrange pita bread
TORONTO KIDS - February 2013 | 13
• Spread 75mL garlic and herb tomato sauce evenly on each pita half • Top with 50 mL each: pep-
pers, mushroom and 25mL red onion, and any other toppings your kids prefer. • Evenly sprinkle crumbled
feta cheese; bake for 12 minutes or until the pita crust is golden. – newscanada.com
RobbinsHebrew
14 | TORONTO KIDS - February 2013 TORONTO
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TORONTO KIDS - February 2013 | 15
16 | TORONTO KIDS - February 2013
Downsview Park
March Break Camp
—a new adventure every day!
Unforgettable week of fun with Downsview Park’s natural and recreational attractions. March 11 to 15 A week of wildlife, science, sports, art, nature and more! Campers will explore local forest habitats; play sports at the Downsview Park Sports Centre; enjoy arts, crafts and hands-on activities in the Discovery Centre, and interact with special guests.
For boys and girls 6 to 12 years old
Space is limited— register online today!
downsviewpark.ca • 416-952-2222 @DPDiscovery
/DownsviewParkOfficialPage