January 2014 by Toronto Kids & Families

NTIM Offers Music Instruction for All Ages and Levels!

TORONTO

KIDS &

Private lessons in Piano, Guitar, Violin, Viola, Cello, Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute, Accordion, Percussion & more!

The NTIM Advantage • Highly qualified teaching faculty • Easy access by TTC • Well established in Toronto since 1995

North Toronto Institute of Music

550 Eglinton Ave, East (at Bayview) Toronto Tel: 416-488-2588 | www.ntimusic.com

Jan 2014

Choosing summer camps

January Events p6

Top T.O. Tobogganing p8

Get outside! Planning a perfect family winter getaway

Time for Preschool?

Northwood Montessori Plus!

• Parent & Tot • Nursery • Kindergarten Ages 1-5 Years Flexible Scheduling The Academic Advantages of Montessori plus the Fun of Bilingual E.C.E. Enrichment plus the Helpful Conveniences of Day Care. Extended Hours HOUSES OPEN E SDAY WEDN5 PM 9-

Finch Campus 1080 Finch Avenue East, 416-492-9495

Join us for Summer Camp too!

Madawaska Campus 53 Madawaska Avenue, 416-250-8302

www.northwoodmontessori.ca

2 | TORONTO KIDS - January 2014

TORONTO KIDS - January 2014 | 3

planningahead

Happy Campers What to look for in a summer camp Though January does not often elicit images of youngsters building campfires or playing games in the pool, the month more synonymous with windchill is actually a great time for parents to start thinking about summer camps for their kids. For many kids, summer camp provides a first taste of independence, as youngsters spend significant time away from home without their parents for the first time in their lives. But as great an experience as summer camp can be for youngsters, it can be just as difficult an experience if parents don't find the right fit for their children. That's why it it’s a good idea for parents to start thinking about summer camps for their kids in winter, before camps start filling out their rosters, which tends to happen in early spring. The following are a few things parents should take into consideration when seeking a summer camp for their kids. STAFF: The right summer camp staff can make all the difference. Many children are understandably shy when arriving at a summer camp, as their friends from back home might not be joining them. That can make kids hesitant to participate in activities or less enthusiastic about those activities. But a good staff will know how to make kids feel welcome, which should help them come out of their shells and make the most of their summer camp experiences. The quality of staffs can vary significantly depending on the camp, so it's important that parents ask camp representatives about their staffs before making any commitments. Ask how long the staff has been together and the types of

training new and even veteran staff members undergo before the start of camp season? Does the training include first aid and emergency medical training and certification? It's also good to ask about the vetting process the camp employs before hiring new staff, including the extent of its background checks. A good camp will be forthcoming with answers to all of your questions, so eliminate those that appear hesitant to share information about their staffs. A DAY IN THE LIFE: When vetting camps for kids, parents should ask what a typical day is like once the season hits full swing. Many parents want their youngsters to have a well-rounded experience, while others might want their kids to attend a more specialized camp, whether it's a sports camp focusing on a particular sport or a music camp devoted to helping kids become better musicians. Regardless of the type of camp parents are considering for their kids, they should ask about what daily life at the camp is like. Ask to see schedules and how strictly camps adhere to those schedules. When considering specialized camps, ask the staff representative if kids will have the chance to simply have a little fun and which types of recreational activities are planned to give kids a break from what are often rigorous schedules. CAMP GOALS: Another thing parents must consider before choosing a summer camp for their kids is the goals of each individual camp. A camp should be dedicated to ensuring kids have fun, even when kids are attending more specialized camps that

tend to be more strict. In addition, parents should look for a camp that wants its attendees to foster relationships with their fellow campers. Camp can be lonely for some youngsters, especially those attending summer camp for the first time, but a summer camp that strives to promote friendship among its campers can reduce, if not eliminate, any

TORONTO

KIDS &

feelings of homesickness. Late winter is when parents should start looking at summer camps for their kids, and there are a host of factors moms and dads should take into consideration during the vetting process to ensure their youngsters have as much fun as possible. – MS

publisher IAN PROUDFOOT

general manager 175 GORDON BAKER ROAD, TORONTO, ONTARIO M2H 0A2 TELEPHONE & ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 416.493.4400 METROLAND MEDIA TORONTO Toronto Kids & Families is published monthly. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may by reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. Toronto Kids is in full compliance with the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act. Call 416-493-4400 for more information.

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4 | TORONTO KIDS - January 2014

outdooradventure

Hit the slopes!

Traveling tips for a stress free winter vacation Winter has much to offer the outdoor adventerous family including snow topped ski hills, cozy lodges and entirely new scenery to admire. Although the summer season is popular for travel, the winter months are also a busy time to get away, and being prepared can make travel that much smoother. If you’re ready to pack up the kids for a trip to the slopes, follow these tips for a stress free winter vacation. • Avoid nonrefundable tickets. If weather causes a cancellation, nonrefundable or nonexchangeable tickets can cost you money. Try to get the best price possible on tickets while still affording yourself the opportunity to amend travel plans if need be. • Book early. Ski resorts are quite popular in the winter, and reservations tend to fill up fast. If you hope to ski or snowboard, make a reservation as early as possible and then shop around for flights or aternative travel methods.

• Get a physical. Visit the doctor and be sure you are up-to-date with all immunizations. Now might be the time to get a flu shot, as traveling in close proximity to others during the wintertime increases your risk of contracting an airborne virus. • Pack accordingly. With fickle weather you may have to pack a number of different wardrobe options to remain comfortable. Check the weather and the extended forecast for your destination. Include a number of clothing pieces that can be layered so you will remain cozy outdoors. • Purchase travel insurance. Many people prefer to safeguard their travel investments with the purchase of travel insurance. While there are a number of companies to contact, insurance also may be offered through your credit card company provided you use that card to finance the trip. Should you need to cancel a trip for weather or illness, travel

insurance can protect your financial outlay and you may get a refund for the full price of the trip. Vacation insurance plans also may include enhanced emergency medical coverage, trip interruption coverage or 24-hour travel assistance services. • Pack something to protect your skin. Cold weather doesn’t mean you don’t need to protect your skin from the elements. The cold wind and winter sun

are still powerful enough to cause damage. Wear ample sunscreen when traveling outdoors, and use a moisturizer to combat cold, dry air. Although many people flock to warmer climates in the winter, embracing the snow and chilly air and visiting a cool-weather destination can make for an ideal trip.

-Newscanada.com

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Discover what you

reading sports science music

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MONTCREST SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE – Jan. 17 www.montcrest.on.ca

TORONTO KIDS - January 2014 | 5 CONSUMER FEATURE

Plan a winter play date with the family Don’t hibernate this winter! Bundle up the family and head north to snow country for a visit to Scenic Caves Nordic Centre. High atop the Niagara Escarpment, set in a 200 year old forest of 100 foot tall trees rich with wildlife, this unique winter wonderland playground offers sensational cross-country skiing and snowshoeing activities. Cross country skiing is a low-impact, total body cardio workout providing a natural endorphin high. Slip-slide and glide along the 27 kilometers of cross-country ski trails groomed professionally each day for both skate and classic styles. The wellmarked picturesque nature trails range from gentle rolling slopes to steep climbs. Or, go dashing through the fluffy white stuff! Snowshoeing is one of the fastest growing recreational activities because it is so easy to do. If you can walk, you can snowshoe - no experience is required. All you need is warm, supportive hiking boots or sturdy winter boots.There are eight kilometers of trails to explore, one of which crosses a 420 foot Suspen-

sion Bridge with its breathtaking 10,000 sq. km. views of Georgian Bay and countryside. Reserve a‘guided night snowshoe hike’ and experience the magic of a winter night by moonlight. The two hour hike is led by professional staff members who share personal stories about the area and habitat. The headlamps provided for you, illuminate your path of glistening powder snow creating an enchanting world of continually changing shapes against a silhouetted backdrop. While on the trails, watch for wildlife or identify tracks in the snow. There are a variety of animals to keep an eye out for - porcupines, deer, racoons, rabbits, as well as friendly winter birds. Pack some gorp and refreshing drinks to enjoy during rest breaks. Bathe in the beauty of nature and listen to the sweet sounds of solitude. After an exhilarating day in the great outdoors, warm up by a roaring fire in the rustic chalet. There’s nothing like a cup of hot chocolate or bowl of soup after a rejuvenating day on the trails. No equipment, no problem!

Rentals of the newest equipment are available for all sizes and ages. An ideal daytrip destination, Scenic Caves is about a two hour drive from anywhere in south central Ontario. It’s open seven days a week between December and March, including holidays. If you’re looking for some cool family fun, blaze a trail to Scenic Caves for a Nordic Adventure this winter. Call 705-446-0256 or visit www.sceniccaves.com for more information.

SCENIC CAVES

NORDIC CENTRE sceniccaves.com

February 8, 2014

THE NORDIC CENTRE AT SCENIC CAVES SITS AMID A 200 YEAR OLD FOREST ON BLUE MOUNTAIN NEAR COLLINGWOOD

Nordic Centre Features • Fully- groomed Cross-country Classic and Skate Ski Trails • Snowshoe Trails and Guided Night Snowshoe Hikes • Warming Hut / Hot Beverages • Rentals and Lessons • Season Passes / Gift Certificates • 420 ft. Suspension Bridge • Fabulous Panoramic Views • High Altitude Snow Conditions

Just 1-1/2 hours North of Toronto • Scenic Caves Road, near Collingwood • 705 446-0256, ext 223

6 | TORONTO KIDS - January 2014

januaryevents 2014 Toronto International Boat Show

Jan 11 - 19 Bring the entire family for a fun-filled day of onwater boating activities, boat rides, and wakeboarding on the world’s largest indoor lake; visit the Kids’ Fishing and Boating Zones; meet Deadliest Catch star Russell Newberry; discover more than 140 seminars; and shop over 1 million sq ft of retail space showcasing the latest yachts, boats, kayaks, canoes, watersports and marine accessories at great bargains. All activities are FREE with admission! Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place www.torontoboatshow.com

Young Rembrandts Drawing Classes

Saturdays, Jan 11 to Mar 1 - 10:00 am until 12:15 pm

Young Rembrandts is based on an acclaimed, stepby-step drawing method that works hand-in-hand with our original, innovative art curriculum developed by a team of educators & artists. Our tiered lesson plans & multisensory approach to learning meet every child at their unique ability level. All materials for class provided. Mitchell Field Community Centre 416-907-0750 www.youngrembrandts.com/toronto

Maple Leaf Monster Jam Tour

Jan 18 - 19 The 2014 touring season brings more Monster Jam excitement to Rogers Centre. Maple Leaf Monster Jam stars the biggest performers on four wheels: Monster Jam trucks! The twelve-feet-tall, tenthousand-pound machines will bring you to your feet, racing and ripping up a custom-designed track full of obstacles to soar over - OR smash through. The colourful, larger than life beasts are sure to capture the hearts of both young and old. Rogers Centre 855-985-5000 www.monsterjamcanada.ca

Jack & the Bean Stalk at Solar Stage

Jan 18 - Feb 2 A funny and colourful, music-filled interactive production with a cow that makes beautiful ‘moosic’, a beanstalk, a transforming giant and, of course, magic beans that change Jack’s life. (Musical Comedy Play) Ages 3 – 10. Solar Stage 416-368-8031 www.solarstage.on.ca

Cineplex Family Favourites

Saturdays until Jan 25 - 11:00 am Watch a family favourite film each week for only $2.50. It’s a fun and affordable way to enjoy the weekend with your family! The Golden Compass, January 18 The Smurfs, January 25 Various Cineplex Locations www.cineplex.com.

Winter Fun Day

Jan 19 - 11:00 am until 3:00 pm Fun wintery activities including taffy pulling for kids take place inside Colborne Lodge and roasting marshmallows, eating roasted potatoes and sipping warm cider in the great outdoors. Dress warmly as most of the activities are outside. Small fees apply for taffy-pulling, potatoes and cider. Free. Colborne Lodge 416-392-6916 www.toronto.ca/museum-events

Super Fun P.A. Day Camp at Scarborough Museum

Jan 24 - 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. Lunch is included $32.30 per child. Pre-register online at toronto.ca/torontofun or call 416-3384FUN. Extended care is available for an additional fee. Course code: 2083159. Scarborough Museum 416-338-8807 www.toronto.ca/torontofun

P.A. Day Kamp

Jan 24, 8:00 am until 6:00 pm Looking for something fun for your child to do on a P.A. day? Our “Kamps” offer the ultimate Kidz360 experience. Combining all the best parts of our various Kidz Programming including Kidz in Motion and Teambuilding 4 Kidz, “Kidz360 Kamp” is the ultimate experience in fun and learning. Kidz360 Active Learning Centre 647-351-9360 www.kidz360.ca

Children’s PA Play Day

Jan 24, 10:00 am until 2:00 pm Dress for the weather and join us in the valley this PA day for outdoor fun and activities including eco-

crafts, guided Nature and Heritage Hikes, shelter building and storytelling! Eco-crafts and guided Nature and Heritage Hikes will take place at 11am and 1pm. Evergreen Brick Works 416-596-1495 ebw.evergreen.ca

Science Explorers P.A. Day Jan 24,

Bring your 5 to 12 year olds to discover and explore at through hands-on science activities and exclusive access to the exhibit halls. Your kids will have a thrilling, unforgettable and educational experience with our knowledgeable and energetic Camp Counsellors. Science Explorers: Visit multiple exhibits, see an IMAX Film and participate in special activities and a unique educational science show. Ontario Science Center 416-696-3256 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Camp/Day-Camps

Robbie Burns’ Day Celebration

Jan 25, 2014 - 12:00 pm until 4:00 pm Celebrate the birthday of the infamous Scottish Poet with toe-tapping live music, shortbread and a taste of haggis! Hear some comical stories about that oft’ misunderstood concoction! Mackenzie House 416-392-6915 www.toronto.ca/museum-events Jan 25 - 3:00 pm until 5:30 pm Come out to watch the Toronto Marlies battle the Chicago Wolves. Be sure to buy your Family 4 Pack to secure free parking, meal vouchers, and a souvenir! Ricoh Coliseum www.marlies.ca

Jan 25 - 26, 2014 As our famous winter weather arrives, what better way to escape the winter blues than exploring warm and exotic vacation opportunities, or homegrown escapes. Discover cultures from around the world through our exciting exhibitors, seminars and entertainment from around the world. Toronto’s Ultimate Travel Show has everything you need to inspire you to plan your best vacation ever! Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place 905-842-3596 www.totravelshow.com

Acton Winter Carnival

CIBC LunarFest at Harbourfront

Toronto Marlies vs Chicago Wolves

Jan 25, - 26 Horse & carriage rides, ice skating, outdoor curling, ice sculpting, bingo & lots more... Free admission. Downtown Acton www.downtownacton.ca

Westminster Classical Christian Academy

January 18th & 23 Open house events. January 18th at 10:30am, January 23rd at 7:30pm. 9 Hewitt Ave. westminsterclassical.ca

INTERPLAY

PSB Dance Academy

Intensive, Enhanced pre-professional ballet program, RAD ballet program and recreational from 3 & up.

Join Now for Winter Programs

Toronto’s Ultimate Travel Show

www.interplay-dance.ca www.psbdanceacademy.ca

Jan 25, 2014 to Jan 26, 2014 Canada’s premier presenter of contemporary expression in Asian arts and culture. Created as a festival that celebrates one of the oldest traditions for many Asian cultures – the Lunar New Year – LunarFest is the perfect way to ring in 2014. Free admission. Harbourfront Centre 416-973-4000 www.lunarfest.org

250 Davisville Ave (at Mt. Pleasant) 416.972.1316

Mooredale house 146 Crescent Rd 416.922.3714 ext 105

91 Rylander Blvd (Port Union & Kingston) 416.284.6784

2351 Kingston Rd (Kingston Rd & Midland) 416.261.9312

Winter in the Valley An Outdoor Guided Walk

Jan 26 - 1:30 pm until 2:30 pm Tour the Wildflower Preserve to learn how birds, animals and plants adapt to and survive harsh winter conditions. Enjoy mulled cider after the walk. Cost: Adults: $6; Children: $2; Youth/Seniors: $3 Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum and Arts Centre 416-396-2819 www.toronto.ca/museum-events

Toronto Marlies vs. Lake Erie Monster

Jan 26 - 5:00 pm until 7:30 pm Join us at Ricoh Coliseum for some pro hockey action when the Toronto Marlies take on the Lake Erie Monsters, affiliate of the Colorado Avalanche. Be sure to get your Family 4 Pack tickets to get free parking, food vouchers, and souvenirs. Ricoh Coliseum 100 Princes’ Boulevard, Toronto , ON www.marlies.ca FOR AN UPDATED LIST OF JANUARY EVENTS, VISIT WWW.TORONTO4KIDS.COM/CALENDAR

Bishop Strachan School 298 Lonsdale Rd 416.483.4325

Karen Davies Thomas, Director F.I.S.T.D. (Cecchetti), A.I.S.T.D. (National), A.I.S.T.D. (Modern), Royal Academy of Dance Teacher’s Certiﬁcate; BFA Honours Degree, York University; Graduate of the National Ballet School Teacher’s Training Program

TORONTO KIDS - January 2014 | 7

ongoingevents The AstraZeneca Human Edge Until Dec 31, 2014 Imagine yourself a diver far below the surface of the ocean, only the blue light of the deep and the beating of your own heart to guide you. A Single Breath is just one of 55 remarkable exhibit experiences in The AstraZeneca Human Edge, the new exhibition at the Ontario Science Centre that explores the wonders and possibilities of the human body. Ontario Science Center 416-696-3256 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca Born to be Wild Ongoing 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. Ontario Science Center

416-696-3127 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca Evergreen Brick Works Public Skating Until Mar 15, 2014 - 11:00 am until 4:00 pm Lace up this winter and take a skate on familyfriendly outdoor Ice Rink! It’s the perfect place for winter fun, as you wind through the gardens and enjoy nature in the city! Free. Evergreen Brick Works 416-596-1495 ebw.evergreen.ca Family Sundays at McMichael Sundays in January Join us on select Sundays each month for our popular Family Sundays. Enjoy hands-on art activities and live entertainment, along with seasonal nature walks, tours, and our family favourite Discovery Space. Fun for the whole family! McMichael Canadian Art Collection 905-893-1121 www.mcmichael.com

Flight of the Butterflies Ongoing It was a Canadian who engaged the world’s first team of citizen scientists, found the secret hideaway of the monarch butterflies and discovered the most incredible migration on Earth – a scientific adventure at its best. Follow the story and year-long, multi-generational migration cycle of hundreds of millions of monarchs from their remote overwintering sanctuaries in Mexico, across the U.S. to Canada. New IMAX film. Ontario Science Centre 416-696-3127 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca Great White Shark Ongoing New IMAX film! Misrepresented, maligned and on the verge of extinction, the great white shark is an iconic predator: the creature we love to fear. Great White Shark explores the great white’s place in our imaginations, in our fears and in the reality of its role at the top of the oceanic food chain. Ontario Science Centre 416-696-3127 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca Eyes on the Skies Ongoing 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. Ontario Science Center 416-696-3127 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca Hands in the Bowl Saturdays in January Caregivers and children aged 4 to 7 are invited to come roll up their sleeves and learn how to mix, grate, mash, and eat their delicious

creations! This fun family program engages all the senses while sparking a life-long love of food in the youngest among us. No registration required. Space is limited to a maximum of 12 children. $5 suggested donation. Evergreen Brick Works 416-596-1495 http://ebw.evergreen.ca/whats-on/kids-families/hands-in-the-bowl Stanley’s Game Seven (3D) Until Dec 31 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. Hockey Hall of Fame 416-933-8215 www.hhof.com Les Misérables Until Feb 2 Cameron Mackintosh presents his acclaimed new production of Boublil & Schönberg’s legendary musical, LES MISÉRABLES, with glorious new staging and dazzlingly reimagined scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo. Princess of Wales Theatre 416-872-1212 www.mirvish.com The Natrel Rink at Harbourfront Until Mar 9 Harbourfront Centre’s Natrel® Rink is a popular skating destination in the heart of the city. Visitors can enjoy our artificially-cooled outdoor rink while skating to music and taking in the beautiful surroundings of Lake Ontario and the Toronto Islands. On-site skate rentals, helmet rentals, change rooms, rental lockers and skate sharpening are available. Free admission. Harbourfront Centre 416-973-4000 www.harbourfrontcentre.com/thenatrelrink Pinkalicious The Musical Until Jan 26 (Sundays) Pinkalicious can’t stop eating pink cupcakes despite warnings from her parents. Her pink indulgence lands her at the doctor’s office with Pinkititis. But when her hue goes too far, only Pinkalicious can figure out a way to get out of this predicament.

Lower Ossington Theatre 416-915-6747 www.lowerossingtontheatre.com Under the Sea Ongoing 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. Ontario Science Center 416-696-3127 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca Weekend Family Fun at the Bata Shoe Museum Weekends in January 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! Bata Shoe Museum 416-979-7799 x242 www.batashoemuseum.ca The Kids’ Gallery Just Like Me: Explore, Imagine, Create Until Aug 31 Visit the AGO’s new The Kids’ Gallery, a space created especially for children and you. Together you can experience art first-hand, learn and have fun. In this first exhibition of paintings and sculptures, you’ll encounter children from faraway times and places. Exhibition-inspired costumes and props are available for visitors to design, dress up and pose for their own portraits. Families are encouraged to post their photographs on Instagram with the #AGOkidsgallery hashtag to see their portrait appear on a screen in the space. The Kids’ Gallery activity centre also includes art books and a drawing station for budding artists inspired by the exhibited works. Art Gallery of Ontario 416-979-6648 www.ago.net

FOR MORE ONGOING EVENTS, VISIT: WWW.TORONTO4KIDS.COM/CALENDAR

Yamaha Music School FREE PREVIEW CLASSES FOR BEGINNERS

5075 Yonge St. 10th Floor Toronto M2N 6C6

www.yamahamusicschool.ca

416-224-5590

8 | TORONTO KIDS - January 2014 CONSUMER FEATURE

MamaDances brings one-of-a-kind family dance to Toronto studios MamaDances is spreading its wings and soaring tonewheights.Thecompany plans to expand in February 2014 and start offering parent-child dance classes to Toronto residents. MamaDances’ new partners include numerous studios in neighbourhood across the city. The classes will include pre-natal dance, mom and baby dance as well as parent and toddler dance. Fathers and guardians are welcome. MamaDances has been extremely well received in Montreal. Not only do courses help relieve stress and isolation, but they also promote joy and inner connection through physical activity and play. As much as they help strengthen bonds between families, they also help build a sense of community among participants. Programsandcourses

were created by dance artist, choreographer and Juilliard graduate Eryn Dace Trudell. A mother of two herself, Trudell understands the importance and social relevance of her work. She states,“I continue my quest for honest, generosity, spirituality, sensuality, equality, compassion, and mindfulness in myself and in others through dance as my medium and language.“ MamaDances blends varied approaches to movement, dance, and wellness. For more information, please visit mamadances.com.

T.O.’s best tobogganing Check out these top 10 hills in the Toronto Area, recommended by our readers: • Riverdale Park: 550 Broadview Ave. This 18-hectare park is popular for Winter toboganning and views of the downtown skyline. • Trinity Bellwoods Park: 790 Queen St West This 14.6 hectare park on Queen St. West at Strachan Ave. was once the home of Trinty College. Most of the park’s area lies in the original Garrison Creek ravine. • Centennial Park: 256 Centennial Park Rd.

A large regional park with many sports facilities which includes a designated toboggan hill. • Sir Winston Churchill Park: 301 St. Clair Ave W. One of the steepest hills in Toronto. The park is located just north of Casa Loma. • Earl Bales Park: 4169 Bathurst St. W. The park also features the Earl Bales Ski & Snowboard Centre with long and well maintained luge/toboggan facilities suitable for all ages. • Linus Park: 125 Seneca Hill Dr. Linus Park is also known as Crestview. The hill

• • • •

is wide and sandwiched between two schools, making it very safe. Adams Park: 2 Rozell Rd This is your Winter tobogganing hill! Complete with lights at night. High Park: 1873 Bloor Street W. Offers a variety of hills, but the most popular is just south of the Grenadier Restaurant. Christie Pits: 779 Crawford Ave W. The sides of the pits are highly sloped, and are used in Winter for tobogganing and activities. Lithuania Park: 155 Oakmount Rd. This 2.2 hectare park is easily one of the best hills in Toronto. – toronto4kids.com

Bonding through Connect, to be a Movement BetterP arent! Dance Classes: Mom and Baby ( 2-12 mos.) • Parent and Child (1 to 4yrs.) Guardians also welcome

www.mamadances.com • info@mamadances.com

888-687-9796

“Taking time to connect to your partner on a regular basis, without distractions, can lead to a stronger partnership and family.” John Sorensen Family Owner: Couples (Only) Resort, Muskoka-Algonquin Park. www.CouplesResort.ca

Native Child and Family Services of Toronto

Keep the Connections… Consider being a Foster, Adopt or Customary Care Parent Foster Care Hotline

416-969-8510 ext. 7788

TORONTO KIDS - January 2014 | 9

AUTHENTIC THAI CUISINE Our concept is inspired by the needs of customers who want to dine amidst a relaxed yet contemporary ambience with no strict rules on decorum, still enjoy fantastically authentic Thai cuisine and at very reasonable prices. Best of all, they can enjoy whether in a group or alone, kudos to our unique serving style of individual portions.

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Orders over $20 free delivery with regular menu. Catering Orders Call 416-388-2222

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1911 Ellesmere Road • 416.438.8222 MARKHAM

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STOUFFVILLE

18 Ringwood Drive • 905.642.8500

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Order online and receive 20% off. Enter voucher code HAPPYNEWYEAR 20 expires April 30 2014

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Are you unhappy with your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance this year? Give Metropolitan Preparatory Academy a call.

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Currently interviewing

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.

416-285-0870 | www.MetroPrep.com | 49 Mobile Drive, Toronto

12 | TORONTO KIDS - January 2014

ARE YOUR CHILDREN REACHING THEIR FULL ACADEMIC POTENTIAL? Westminster Classical Christian Academy (JKâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Grade 8) is bringing the rigorous academic Classical Education approach back to Toronto in a nurturing Christian environment. Great minds trained using the Classical Education model include Aristotle, Leonardo da Vinci, Shakespeare, Isaac Newton, C.S. Lewis and many more. www.westminsterclassical.ca

Westminster Classical Christian Academy JOIN US FOR AN UPCOMING INFORMATION SESSION DATES:

Saturday January 18th at 10:30AM ; Thursday January 23rd at 7:30PM

LOCATION:

Westminster Chapel at High Park, 9 Hewitt Ave (South of Bloor on Roncesvalles)

TO LEARN MORE OR TO REGISTER FOR AN INFORMATION SESSION, PLEASE CONTACT Meredith Cutrer, Director of Educational Development | 416-466-8819 ext. 310 | meredith.cutrer@westminsterclassical.ca