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Family Resource Guide 2022
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YOUR FAMILY RESOURCE GUIDE
2022
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BOOKS TO TACKLE RACISM Jim Schneider Publisher publisher@westcoastfamilies.com Sue Fast Editor editor@westcoastfamilies.com
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EDUCATION
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Jodi Iverson Account Manager jodi@westcoastfamilies.com
FAMILY FUN & ENTERTAINMENT
Kristine Wickheim Account Manager kristine@islandparent.ca
For distribution inquiries, please email publisher@westcoastfamilies.com
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SUMMER CAMP PREP
SHUTTING OFF SCREENS
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FAMILY BUSINESS
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CLASSES & PROGRAMS
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WestCoast Families, published by Island Parent Group Enterprises Ltd., is a bimonthly publication that honours and supports parents by providing information on resources and businesses for west coast families. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. No material herein may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher.
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FAMILY SUPPORT WestCoastFamilies.com twitter.com/wcfmag facebook.com/westcoastfamilies
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ANNUAL FAMILY EVENTS
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WestCoastFamilies.com
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pinterest.com/wcfmag @westcoastfamilies
5 NATURE CONNECTION ACTIVITIES
Cover Photo: Katrina Massey instagram.com/katrinajmassey
Canadian Books to Tackle Racism
H
ow do you talk to young readers about the racism in the world and their own country? The Canadian Children’s Book Centre has compiled a reading list of books that are a good start to conversations about racism, discrimination and #BlackLivesMatter. Here’s a few from the list. For more, visit bookcentre.ca.
PICTURE BOOKS
Boonoonoonous Hair! by Olive Senior, illustrated by Laura James (Tradewind Books, 2019) Ages 4–7 It’s time to plait Jamilla’s hair but she’s hidden the comb. Jamilla doesn’t like her hair, she wants hair like other girls…long, easy to manage without plaits or pins. But Jamilla’s moms shows her how beautiful her hair is—electric, kinetic, bombastic and fantastic! Jamilla can have different styles every day of the week, from puffs and plaits to cornrows and braids! Lila and the Crow by Gabrielle Grimard (Annick Press, 2016) Ages 5–8 Lila is new to town and can’t wait to make friends. But at school, a boy mocks her dark hair, skin and eyes. He calls her Crow. Lila is ashamed of being different and every day she tries to disguise herself, until a magical encounter with a crow shows her that her beauty lies in the differences she tries to hide. The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad and S.K. Ali, illustrated by Hatam Aly (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2019) Ages 4–8 Faizah has a new backpack and light-up shoes, ready for the first day of school! It’s the start of a brand-new year and, best of all, it’s her older sister Asiya’s first day of hijab. But not everyone sees hijab as beautiful, and in the face of hurtful, confusing words, Faizah will find new ways to be strong. Viola Desmond Won’t Be Budged by Jody Nyasha Warner, illustrated by Richard Rudnicki (Groundwood Books, 2010) Ages 5–9
In Nova Scotia, in 1946, an usher in a movie theatre told Viola Desmond to move from her main floor seat up to the balcony. She refused to budge. Viola knew she was being asked to move because she was black. After all, she was the only black person downstairs. All the other black people were up in the balcony. In no time at all, the police arrived and took Viola to jail. The next day she was charged and fined, but she vowed to continue her struggle against such unfair rules. She refused to accept that being black meant she couldn’t sit where she wanted. When I Was Eight by Christy Jordan-Fenton and Margaret Pokiak-Fenton, illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard (Annick Press, 2013) Ages 6–9 Olemaun is eight and knows a lot of things. But she does not know how to read. Ignoring her father’s warnings, she travels far from her Arctic home to the outsiders’ school to learn. The nuns at the school call her Margaret. They cut off her long hair and force her to do menial chores, but she remains undaunted. Her tenacity draws the attention of a blackcloaked nun who tries to break her spirit at every turn. But the young girl is more determined than ever to learn how to read.
young Margaret. Intending to humiliate her, the heartless Raven gives gray stockings to all the girls—all except Margaret, who gets red ones. In an instant Margaret is the laughingstock of the entire school. In the face of such cruelty, Margaret refuses to be intimidated and bravely gets rid of the stockings. Although a sympathetic nun stands up for Margaret, in the end it is this brave young girl who gives the Raven a lesson in the power of human dignity.
JUNIOR FICTION
The Journey of Little Charlie by Christopher Paul Curtis (Scholastic Canada, 2018) Ages 1–14 After his father dies, 12-year-old Charlie finds himself owing money to the most fearsome man in Possum Moan, South Carolina. He agrees to clear the debt by helping track down some stolen property. When he comes face-to-face with the “property” and discovers their true identities, he is torn between his conscience and his survival instinct.
Can I Touch Your Hair? Poems of Race, Mistakes and Friendship by Irene Latham and Charles Waters, illustrated by Sean Squalls and Selina Alko (Carolrhoda Books, 2018) Ages 8–12 How can Irene and Charles work together on their fifth-grade poetry project when they don’t know each other? Irene Latham, who is white, and Charles Waters, who is black, use this fictional set-up to delve into different experiences of race in a relatable way. This remarkable collaboration invites readers to join the dialogue by putting their own words to their experiences. Fatty Legs by Christy Jordan-Fenton and Margaret Pokiak-Fenton, illustrated by Liz Amini-Holmes (Annick Press, 2013) Ages 6–9 Eight-year-old Margaret Pokiak has set her sights on learning to read, even though it means leaving her village in the high Arctic. Faced with unceasing pressure, her father finally agrees to let her make the five-day journey to attend school, but he warns Margaret of the terrors of residential schools. At school Margaret soon encounters the Raven, a black-cloaked nun with a hooked nose and bony fingers that resemble claws. She immediately dislikes the strong-willed
YOUNG ADULT
Speaking Our Truth: A Journey of Reconciliation by Monique Gray Smith (Orca Book Publishers, 2017) Ages 10+ Canada’s relationship with its Indigenous people has suffered as a result of both the residential school system and the lack of understanding of the historical and current impact of those schools. Guided by acclaimed Indigenous author Monique Gray Smith, readers will learn about the lives of survivors and learn from the allies who are putting the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission into action. See more at: bookcentre.ca/news/ canadian-books-tackle-racism Family Resource Guide 2022
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Education CHILD CARE 123 ABC Montessori 123abcmontessori.com
3 Corners Child Care Centre
FV
mountpleasantcc.ca/3-corners-child-carecentre
A Place to Grow aplacetogrow.ca
A to Z Childcare Centres a2zchildcare.ca
ABC University Daycare abcdaycarevancouver.com
Acorn Early Education Centre acornearlyed.com
V
Apple Tree Family Daycare
BN Bonny Castle Daycare
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Astro Childcare
BN Bright Eyes Academy
M
Aubrey Daycare Centres
BN Burnaby Association for Community Inclusion
apple-tree-family-daycare.business.site astrochildcare.ca
aubreydaycare.com
DS Aves Early Education Centre aveseducation.com
M Baby Panda Childcare Centre
brighteyesacademy.ca
R R
gobaci.com
Burnaby Family Life burnabyfamilylife.org
Betty’s Daycare
Child Care Resource BN & Referral Programs
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Conscious Kids Care
FV
V bears-house-childcare.business.site NS robynnest.weebly.com
Bluebird Group Daycare Centre
FV
LICENSED PRESCHOOL childcareresource.ca Play based learning in a warm and nurturing environment. BN City of Surrey DS surrey.ca/preschool | 604-501-5100 surrey.ca The City of Surrey delivNS ers affordable excellence in licensed preschools for children ages 3–5 years. The City of Surrey’s high quality, play-based preschool program runs from September to June and is designed to promote healthy growth and development throughout a child’s early years. consciouskidscare.com
Creative Montessori Daycare creativedaycare.ca
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Curious Minds Learning Centre
FV
Dinosaur Daycare
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Discovery Childcare Centre
BN
Dreamkids Childcare Centre
TC
Early Learning Childcare Centre
TC
Evergreen Early Childhood Daycare
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curiousmindslearningcentre.com dinosaurdaycare.com burnabychildcare.ca dream-kids.ca
earlylearningpoco.ca
evergreenchildcarecentre.ca
WestCoastFamilies.com
BN
Caterpillar Family Daycare BN facebook.com/thelittlecaterpillars
bluebirddaycare.ca
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BN
Bear’s House Childcare
Birchwood Daycare Alexandrea Neighbourhood House DS birchwooddaycare.com alexhouse.net
Bonnycastledaycare.com
Fantastic Child Care Services Limited
BN Happy May Childcare Centre
facebook.com/Neville-Childcare0-3-yrs-586610828174475
Friendship Corner Daycare friendshipdaycare.com
Fun Farm Child Care funfarmchildcare.ca
Gatehouse Montessori gatehousemontessori.com
Gentle Steps Childcare Centre gentlestepscc.com
M Learn ‘n Play Childcare Centre
happymay.ca
Harbourside Children’s Centre TC FV
harboursidechildren.ca
Head Start Pre-Kinder headstartpre-k.com
Honey Tree The Children’s Learning Centre
NS Les Moussaillons
Green Apple Daycare greenappledaycare.ca
Growing Minds Childcare Centre
NW Little Rascals Daycare
growingmindschildcarecenter.ca
DS Little Wings Daycare Society
Hand in Hand Childcare Society robynnest.weebly.com
R imaginationstationchildcarecentre.com
Lonsdale Creek Daycare M Centre Society
NS
D Meadow Ridge Centre for Childcare
FV
lonsdalecreekdaycare.ca
Kidzone Learning Centre
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M kidzonelearningcentre.com
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M facebook.com/Ladybird-Group-ChildcareCentre-Delta-168101456553522
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littlewingsdaycare.ca
Imagination Station
Ladybird Daycare
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littlerascals.ca
NS honeytree.ca
Kidzville Learning Centres BN kidzvillelearningcenters.com
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moussaillons.ca
Kids Only Daycare Goodwin Academy Daycare Centre DS kidsonlydaykidsdaycare.weebly.com goodwinacademy.ca
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learnplaychildcare.com
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mrccdaycare.com
My First Step Child Centre myfirststep.ca
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Vancouver
BN Burnaby/New West
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Richmond
NS North Shore
DS Delta/Surrey
SW Squamish/Whistler
TC Tri-Cities
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FV Fraser Valley
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Online
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Accepting Applications for 2022/23 School Year
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Neverland Children’s Centre neverlandchildrenscentre.com
D PJ Kids Club
pjkidsclub.com
NS Sophia’s Family Child Care
BN
TC Starlight Child Care Centre
BN
facebook.com/sophiachildcare
Olio Childcare
DS Port Coquitlam Daycare Society
Olive Grove Childcare ltd.
NS Rainbow’s Nest Child Care
V Start Smart Childcare Centre
FV
One Two Buckle My Shoe
DS Rise N Shine Childcare Centres
R Stay N Play Daycare
TC
oliochildcare.ca
olivegrovechildcare.ca
facebook.com/bucklemyshoe.ca
OneSpace Childcare
pocodaycare.com
facebook.com/rainbowsnestchildcare rnschildcare.vpweb.ca
V Robyn’s Nest Daycare
onespaceforall.ca/childcare Our childcare service allows you the freedom and flexibility to drop off your child at our Children’s Atelier in our second floor play space while you make use of all the services OneSpace has to offer. By providing flexible workspace, child care, wellness services and affordable business consulting, we aim to remove many of the traditional barriers that exist for parents, entrepreneurs and small businesses.
robynnest.weebly.com
Rothewood Academy rothewood.com
SFU Childcare Society sfu.ca/childcare.html
FV
Parkland Players
TC Society of Richmond Childrens Centres
pear-tree.ca 8
WestCoastFamilies.com
BN
Small Steps Childcare smallstepschildcare.com smilingstarsdaycare.com
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TC
shiningstardaycare.ca
NS Smiling Stars Daycare Centre
Pear Tree
DS Step by Step Child Development Society
Shining Star Daycare
Park Place Daycare & Montessori
parklandplayers.com
staynplaydaycare.com
sandcastlepark.ca
DS
parkplacedaycareltd.com
start-smart.ca
Sandcastles Park Children’s Centre R
Pacific Heights Montessori Children’s Centre phmccentre.com
starlightchildcarecentre.com
richmondchildcare.org
TC
step-by-step.ca
Sunshine Children’s Centre ridgemeadowschildcare.com
Sweet Peas Cottage sweetpeascottage.ca
UBC Childcare Services childcare.ubc.ca
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West Point Grey Community Centre V westpointgrey.org
West Vancouver Child Development Centre
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Wise Owl Montessori Childcare R wiseowlchildcare.com
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NS westvandaycare.org
Wonder of Learning
V Brockton School North Vancouver NS Vancouver Waldorf School
wonderoflearning.ca Childcare Learning Centre for ages 2–12. Our learning centre is Reggio-Emilia inspired and incorporates best practices in education while highly valuing the arts. Our School of Arts includes educational development in the areas of music, art, character and psychological development. We specialize in providing fun, engaging and educational piano lessons for all ages.
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS Brentwood College School
brocktonschool.com
Collingwood School collingwood.org
Fraser Academy fraseracademy.ca
Fraser Valley Elementary fves.bc.ca
Island Pacific School islandpacific.org
M James Cameron School
brentwood.ca Brentwood College School is a co-educational, university preparatory boarding school for Grades 8 through 12 located in Mill Bay, Vancouver Island, BC. Our spectacular oceanfront campus sets the backdrop for a modern and progressive boarding school where our unique Tripartite Program provides students from 55 countries unrivalled opportunities that challenge them to become the leaders of tomorrow.
jcs.bc.ca
Kenneth Gordon Maplewood kgms.ca
Madrona School
madronaschool.com
Southpointe Academy southpointe.ca
Urban Academy urbanacademy.ca
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vws.ca Lynn Valley, 2725 St Christophers Rd NS info@vws.ca | 604-985-7435 Edgemont Village, 307–3255 Edgemont Blvd highschool@vws.ca | 604-986-2922 V The Vancouver Waldorf School provides an experiential, age-appropriate approach to education. Our rich FV curriculum integrates hands-on creativity, language arts, music, SW physical education, nature studies, fine arts and crafts, math and sciences to support the development of the whole child.
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West Vancouver School District westvancouverschools.ca
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Westside Montessori School
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York House School
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westsidemontessori.ca yorkhouse.ca
LEARNING CENTRES & TUTORS
NW Abby Tutors
abbytutors.com
Family Resource Guide 2022
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Active Learning
M Reading and Learning Pathways
Amazing Tutors Inc.
M Spirit of Math
Brain Boost Education
V Sylvan
M Council of Parent Participation Preschools
Edify Learning Spaces
O Tutor Doctor
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beyondlearning.com amazingtutors.ca
brainboosteducation.com
rlpathways.com
spiritofmath.com sylvanlearning.com
edifylearningspaces.com | 604-368-3554 Edify Learning Spaces is a 1-on1 online tutoring agency. Quality tutors work with your child’s unique strengths to increase academic scores but also provide social emotional learning support to help increase focus and confidence! BC based, neurodivergent affirming agency. Book a free consultation.
tutordoctor.com
Tutors in Vancouver tutorsinvancouver.ca
Vancouver Learning Centre vancouverlearningcentre.com
PRESCHOOL Aboriginal Head Start Association
Higher Grade Learning Centre
M ahsabc.com
HomeLearners Network
Association of Neighbourhood O Houses
highergrade.ca
homelearnersnetwork.com HomeLearners Network offers At Home Activities (AHAs) for kids and teens to help them pursue their passions, learn new things, build relationships and have FUN. The more the merrier—all of our activities, designed by worldclass educators, can be done solo, together with your family or with a group of friends.
NS dramatic play and story telling. The preschool
programs are staffed by qualified Early Childhood Educators who provide support for each M child’s unique development, self-awareness, ability and pride in accomplishments.
V V
cpppreschools.bc.ca
Creative Kids Learning Centres creativekidslearningcenters.ca
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Developmental Disabilities Assoc.
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creativekidsmontessori.com
Elite Montessori Academy M elitemontessori.ca
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Fraser Montessori Daycare M edithsmontessori.com
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Garderie et Prematernelle les Moussaillons
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BC Aboriginal Child Care Society
NS moussaillons.ca
Bee Haven Kids
Global West Montessori NS Preschool and Daycare
beehavenkids.com
Brightstart Childrens Academy brightstart.ca
M Granville House Montessori granvillehousemontessori.com
BN Highlands Preschool
JEI Learning Centre
M
Jellybean Park BN jellybeanpark.com
Kumon Math & Reading
M
Little House Tutoring and Learning Centre
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Little Mountain Learning Academy
V City Hall Child Care Society
Mathnasium
M Collingwood Neighbourhood House V Kinderheart Montessori
jeilearning.com kumon.com
littlehousetutoring.com lmacademics.com mathnasium.ca
Millennium Learning
millenniumlearningadvantage.com
Oxford Learning
oxfordlearning.com 10
WestCoastFamilies.com
Burnaby Neighbourhood House burnabynh.ca
FV
globalwestmontessori.ca
Ho Math and Chess Learning Centre V Burnaby French Language vancouvermath.com Preschool bflp.org
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Creative Kids Montessori
develop.bc.ca
anhbc.org
acc-society.bc.ca
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highlandspreschool.ca
V NS M
CEFA Core Education & Fine Arts
Jewish Community Centre V of Greater Vancouver
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Child Care Options
M Kerrisdale Little Owls Preschool
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V Kids and Company
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cefa.ca
childcareoptions.ca
cityhallchildcare.org
jccgv.com
kerrisdalelittleowls.com
cnh.bc.ca Reggio Emilia inspired, TC high quality licensed child care and preschool programs that support your M child’s early learning through arts and crafts, music, indoor and outdoor activities, science,
kidsandcompany.com kinderheart.ca
TC
Kiwassa Neighbourhood House
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Little Koala Montessori
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kiwassa.ca
littlekoalamontessori.com
Little Rainbow House Preschool & Daycare littlerainbowhouse.com
Montessori Daycare Society mdcsvancouver.com
Montessori Mes Petits mespetits.ca
TC Vancouver Society of Childrens Centres vsocc.org
V Westcoast Child Care Resource Centre NS
Mount Pleasant Community Centre
V
My Whole Earth Academy
V
wstcoast.org
Westside Montessori westsidemontessori.ca
V Write Choice Early Learning Centre
TC
M YMCA of Greater Vancouver
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YWCA V gv.ymca.ca
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writechoicelearning.com gv.ymca.ca
mountpleasantcc.ca mywholeearth.ca
North Shore Child Care Resource and Referral
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North Star Montessori
NS
nscr.bc.ca
northstarmontessori.ca Providing an education as unique as your child. North Star Montessori offers a nurturing, engaging and challenging environment in which each child develops at their pace academically, physically, socially and emotionally.
Pomme d’Api
pommedapi.org
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Purpose Society
NW
Reach for the Stars Montessori
BN
Roots & Wings Montessori
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Saplings Outdoor Programs
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Smilestones
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SOAR Inclusive Preschool
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Spare Time Child Care Society
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UBC Childcare Services
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Vancouver Montessori
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purposesociety.org
reachforthestarsmontessori.com rootsandwingsbc.com
saplingsoutdoorprogram.ca smilestones.ca soarpreschool.ca
sparetimesociety.org childcare.ubc.ca
vancouvermontessorischool.com
Family Resource Guide 2022
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Family Fun & Entertainment 6pack Indoor Beach
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Adventure Zone + Toddler Zone
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6packbeach.com
theadventurezone.ca
Britannia Mine Museum
SW
Burnaby Village Museum
BN
Captain Kid’s Fun Centre
FV
Castle Royale
NS
britanniaminemuseum.ca
burnabyvillagemuseum.ca sportsplexbc.com castleroyale.ca
Circuit Circus Arcade
granvilleisland.com/directory/circuit-circus
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Crash Crawly’s
TC Go Bananas
M Historic Stewart Farm
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Destination Cultus Water and Theme Parks
FV Granville Island
V Hive Climbing
NS
crash-crawlys.com
cultus.com
EcoDairy
ecodairy.ca
gobananaslangley.com granvilleisland.com
Greater Vancouver Zoo FV gvzoo.com
Extreme Air Park
Grouse Mountain M grousemountain.com/camps
FlyOver Canada
Gulf of Georgia Cannery V National Historic Site
richmond.extremeairpark.com flyovercanada.com
gulfofgeorgiacannery.org
Fort Langley National Historic Site FV Hazelmere Pumpkin Patch pc.gc.ca/fortlangley
hazelmerepumpkinpatch.ca
discoversurreybc.com hiveclimbing.com
FV Honeybee Centre
DS
NS Jungle Jacs Play Centre
TC
honeybeecentre.com junglejacs.com
R Kids Market kidsmarket.ca
Kidsworld DS kidsworldprogram.com Kidtropolis
kidtropolis.ca
R NS
Maplewood Farm
NS
maplewoodfarm.bc.ca
Metro Vancouver Regional Parks
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Pacific Museum of Earth
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Playland at the PNE
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metrovancouver.org/events/calendar pme.ubc.ca pne.ca WestCoastFamilies.com
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Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre ecologycentre.ca
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Railway Museum of BC
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wcra.org
Royal BC Museum
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Science World
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royalbcmuseum.bc.ca scienceworld.ca/summercamp
SkyZone Trampoline Park
GIVE THEM A SUMMER THAT LASTS FOREVER!
DS
skyzone.com
Stanley Park Miniature Railway
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vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture
Taves Family Farm
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tavesfamilyfarms.com
UBC Botanical Gardens
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Vancouver Maritime Museum
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Vancouver Symphony Orchestra
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botanicalgarden.ubc.ca vanmaritime.com
vancouversymphony.ca
• • • • •
Summer Camps Seaquest Kayak Camps Leadership Programs Open House Retreats
WWW.QWANOES.CA
1-888-997-9266
VanDusen Botanical Gardens
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Victoria Bug Zoo
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vandusengarden.org
LIFE LIKE NO OTHER
631 Courtney St, Victoria 250-384-2847 | victoriabugzoo.ca The Victoria Bug Zoo is an incredible mini-zoo dedicated to educating people about the wonders of some of this world’s most misunderstood inhabitants. Come see giant Come on in and see our incredible live animals in this unique walking sticks, fuzzy tarantulas, glowing scormini-zoo. Tour guides are always available to answer questions pions, enormous beetles and so much andmore! show off our adorable critters! Virtual tours and outreach
programs are available for larger groups and birthday parties. Masks and vaccines required. Thank you!
VR Funtastic World
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vrfuntasticworld.com
victoriabugzoo.ca
Watermania
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Wesbrook Welcome Centre
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richmond.ca/parksrec/pools/watermania discoverwesbrook.com
WildPlay Elements Park wildplay.com/maple-ridge
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Vancouver
BN Burnaby/New West
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Richmond
NS North Shore
DS Delta/Surrey
SW Squamish/Whistler
TC Tri-Cities
M Multiple
FV Fraser Valley
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Online
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Shutting Off Screens Tear-free tips for making the transition away from devices BE PREPARED
We’ve all seen it—the tears, scrunched up faces, and tantrums that result from those dreaded words “time to put the tablet away.” One of the biggest frustrations in parenting a young child is that moment when it’s time to turn off the screens and transition to doing something else. We have good news: it doesn’t have to be so hard! Read on for a few tips and tricks to help you successfully transition your little one when screen time is over.
WARNING, TRANSITION AHEAD
Transitions are always easier when we know they are coming and what to expect on the other side. This is true no matter how old you are but is especially important for young children. Give kids incremental warnings in advance of the transition, and make sure they know what they’re transitioning to, not just that they have to turn off the screen. For example, you might say “You have 10 minutes left with your tablet, then it’s time to get ready for the park.” Gabrielle McHarg and Katelyn Blocker are writers at Children and Screens, Institute of Digital Media and Child Development. For more information, visit childrenandscreens.com. 14
WestCoastFamilies.com
SPEAK THEIR LANGUAGE
Young children may not yet understand units of time in any meaningful way. Therefore, it can be really helpful to use units of time that make sense to kids as you help them prepare for the transition. Say things like “Once Elmo says goodbye, we are going to turn the TV off” or “one more song and then the tablet goes night-night.” Visual indicators of time such as digital timers and hourglasses are great tools for transitions, too!
ENTERTAIN AS YOU GO
Doing something fun as you transition from screen time to another activity can make all the difference! Whether it’s a game of “I Spy” or “Follow the Leader,” or even just singing a favorite song or reading a preferred book, transition moments can be some of the most fun on any day!
FROM FUN TO FUNNER
Screen time is highly stimulating and is often something kids look forward to. If you ask children to turn off their screens and then immediately do something they don’t love doing, like cleaning up or taking a bath, you’re making the transition harder on yourself. Instead, choose a preferred activity as a buffer!
STICK TO IT
Whether their protests indicate it or not, kids need you to be consistent and stick to your word. If you say you’re going to turn the TV off after two episodes of Bluey, actually turning it off after two episodes makes for a much smoother transition—if not this time, then definitely next time! When you waver, kids learn that they can sway you with words or tantrums, which, ultimately, makes your job more difficult the next time you need to transition. Hang in there and stick with it—you and your kids will thank you later!
STAY ON TRACK
Young kids’ sense of time and future aren’t yet fully developed, and so it may feel like this is their only opportunity for screen time, especially if screen time isn’t part of a regular routine. It may be helpful to remind kids of the next time they will have the chance to play their game or watch their show.
OUT OF SIGHT, OUT OF MIND
If possible, it can be helpful to transition to a screen-free location after screen time, and to keep some areas permanently screen-free, such as outdoor play areas and bedrooms. This is especially true if someone else is using screens in the room (like an older sibling), which might make it more frustrating and difficult for your little one to understand why they can’t.
I WANNA BE LIKE YOU
If kids’ tablet time ends, put yours away, too. Show your child when you set a time limit on your device use, and roleplay strategies you want them to use during their transitions, such as putting a device away in a drawer or turning it off. Young children want to be just like you, so if you’re on your phone all day long and protest when it’s time to put it away, kids will have trouble, too.
LEAVE THE SCREENS BEHIND
Teach kids to transition from one activity to another, regardless of what those activities are, in the same way—without screens! Instead of transitioning from living room tablet time to the dinner table while walking with the tablet, make a clean cut from tablet time to a fun transition to family screen-free dinner!
REINFORCE, REINFORCE, REINFORCE
Offer praise and other forms of positive reinforcement when a transition goes smoothly to encourage the same behavior in the future! This might be an immediate reward (as simple as a high-five or a “Good job!”) or a star chart (ex: with a special treat or reward after five stars). You know your child best, so you can structure these rewards based on what motivates them the most and what you can maintain. Keep it interesting! At first, reinforcing your child each and every time will help get good habits started, but in order to develop stronger internal motivation, over time you might try offering intermittent rewards of varying degrees.
fun, food and
great shopping open daily 10 am to 6 pm
kidsmarket.ca
Family Resource Guide 2022
15
Classes & Programs Rusart Fine Arts Co
ART PROGRAMS 4Cats Arts Studio 4cats.com
M
Artmania
NS
Camp MAC, Spring Break Art Lessons
FV
artmaniabc.ca
missionartscouncil.ca
Color Connection colorconnection.ca
rusart.biz
streamofdreams.org
The Centre for Digital Media thecdm.ca
ACT Arts Centre
theactmapleridge.org
M Green Apple Art Centre greenappleartcenter.com
creativeedgebc.com
FV Leigh Square Community Arts Village
Danzmode Productions
BN
North Van Arts northvanarts.ca
Port Moody Arts Centre pomoarts.ca
portcoquitlam.ca/leighsquare
North Vancouver Community Arts Council
V nvartscouncil.ca
Place des Arts TC placedesarts.ca The Arts Centre pomoarts.ca
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COMMUNITY CENTRES
Burnaby/New West Stream of Dreams Murals Society BN burnaby.ca
Creative Edge
danzmodeproductions.com
O
Delta/Surrey V delta.ca | surrey.ca Evergreen Cultural Centre FV evergreenculturalcentre.ca Fraser Valley V fvrd.ca Richmond TC richmond.ca
BN DS TC FV R
Squamish/Whistler
SW
Tri-Cities
TC
squamish.ca NS whistler.ca
coquitlam.ca | portcoquitlam.ca TC portmoody.ca
Vancouver Community Centres TC vancouver.ca
V
DANCE
family events - Performing Arts Classes - arts camps - free art gallery
Ache Brasil
V
Arts Umbrella
V
Circus West
V
achebrasil.ca
artsumbrella.com circuswest.com
Driftwood Dance
NS
driftwooddance.com
Gabriela’s Movement Studio
R
Pacific Dance Arts
V
movementstudio.ca pacificdancearts.ca
Royal City Youth Ballet royalcityyouthballet.org
Eagles in the Sky
V
eaglesinthesky.ca
saplingsoutdoorprogram.ca
NS
Summer at Southridge Day Camps DS southridgesummer.ca
MUSIC Ava Music and Arts Centre
NS
H.O.W. Music and Arts Academy
FV
Langley Community Music School
FV
avamusic.ca
howmusic.ca
langleymusic.com
Life Musique Academy
R
Long & McQuade
M
Modern Music School
V
lifemusique.com
long-mcquade.com
modernmusicschool.com/en/vancouver V
Vancouver
BN Burnaby/New West
R
Richmond
NS North Shore
DS Delta/Surrey
SW Squamish/Whistler
TC Tri-Cities
M Multiple
FV Fraser Valley
O
Online
@evergreenarts www.evergreenculturalcentre.ca
NW
DAY PROGRAMS
Saplings Outdoor Program
Join us for all kinds of family fun at evergreen!
Explore the arts! REGISTER FOR CLASSES AND LESSONS IN
music • dance • theatre visual arts • creative writing placedesarts.ca 1120 Brunette Ave., Coquitlam 604.664.1636
Come on in and see our incredible live animals in this unique mini-zoo. Tour guides are always available to answer questions and show off our adorable critters! Virtual tours and outreach programs are available for larger groups and birthday parties. Masks and vaccines required. Thank you!
victoriabugzoo.ca Family Resource Guide 2022
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Music for Young Children
M VanDusen Botanical Garden
School of Groove
V
myc.com
schoolofgroovevancouver.com
vandusengarden.org
V
SCIENCE
Daedalos Enrichment BN daedalosacademy.com
M
Tom Lee Music
GEERing Up! V geeringup.apsc.ubc.ca
V
Tom Lee Music
M Genome Geneskool Camp
V
Staccato
staccatostudios.com tomleemusic.ca
ENJOY YOUR FAMILY TIME IN VANCOUVER
tomleemusic.ca/learningcentre
Stay at an affordable, family-friendly hotel that helps local communities.
YWCAHOTEL.COM
Tri-City School of Music tricityschoolofmusic.com
genomebc.ca
TC High Touch Science Made Fun sciencemadefunbc.net
Vancouver Bach Choir
V Vancouver Aquarium Kids Camps
Vancouver Youth Choir
V
VSO School of Music
Abbotsford Minor Hockey V Association
vancouverbachchoir.com
vancouveryouthchoir.com vsoschoolofmusic.ca
vanaqua.org/learn/camps
burnsbog.org/summer-day-camps
Soaring Eagle Nature School soaringeaglenatureschool.org
Stanley Park Ecology Society stanleyparkecology.ca
Surrey Nature Centre surrey.ca 18
WestCoastFamilies.com
V
SPORTS FV
abbotsfordminorhockey.ca
Abbotsford Soccer Association
FV
Aldergrove Minor Hockey Association
FV
Aldergrove Youth Soccer Club V aldergrovesoccer.com
FV
NATURE Burns Bog Conservation Society
V
D
abbotsfordsoccer.com
BN aldergroveminorhockey.com
Burnaby Girls Soccer DS burnabygirlssoccer.com
BN
Burnaby Minor Hockey Association BN Delta Youth Soccer Association
D Langley Minor Hockey Association FV
Canlan Ice Sports
V Langley United Youth Soccer
FV
V My Gym Children Centre
FV
burnabyminor.com icesports.com
deltayouthsoccer.com
M Dojang Martial Arts Centre dojang.ca
Cliff Avenue United FC
BN Dragon Zone Paddling Club
Cloverdale Minor Hockey Association
DS Endless Biking
cliffavenuesoccer.com
dragonzone.ca
endlessbiking.com
cloverdaleminorhockey.com
Evolve Skateboard Camp
Cloverdale Youth Soccer
DS evolvecamps.com/skateboarding
Coastal Football Club
First Steps Archery DS boormanarchery.com
cloverdaleyouthsoccer.com coastalfc.ca
NS New Westminster Minor Hockey Association M
NW
nwmha.ca
North Delta Minor Hockey Association
D
NW ndhockey.com
NS
Guildford Athletic Club
North Vancouver DS Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
NS
Coquitlam Minor Hockey Association
TC
Deep Cove Canoe & Kayak
NS Jump Gymnastics
deepcovekayak.com
mygym.com/langley/camp
North Shore Equestrian Centre NS wecreateriders.com
TC flickagymclub.com
coquitlamminorhockey.org
luysa.com
Flicka Gymnastics
Coquitlam Metro-Ford Soccer Club cmfsc.ca
langleyminorhockey.ca
guildfordac.com
Jericho Sailing Centre macsailing.com
jumpgymnastics.ca
northvanbjj.com
V North Vancouver FC nvfc.ca
SW Origami Rhythmics origamirhythmics.ca
Family Resource Guide 2022
NS TC
19
Pedalheads
pedalheads.com
M Tumbletown Movement Education Centre
Phoenix Gymnastics
V
Pony Pals Riding Stables
D ubccamps.ca
phoenixgymnastics.com ponypals.ca
UBC Phenomenal Physics Summer Camps
UBC Sports Camps TC camps.ubc.ca
Port Coquitlam Minor Hockey
Ultimate Soccer School TC ultimatesoccerschool.com
pocominorhockey.com
windsure.com
tumbletown.ca
Port Coquitlam Euro-Rite FC pocosoccer.com
M Windsure Adventure Watersports
V
V
TECHNOLOGY Digital Media Academy digitalmediaacademy.org
M
V UME Academy
M
BN Under the GUI
V
ume.academy
underthegui.com
Propel Swimming Lessons
Vancouver All Star Cheer M vancouverallstarcheer.com
Richmond Aquatics
Vancouver All Stars R Summer Baseball Camp
Royal Soccer
M Vancouver Hockey School
Gateway Theatre Academy V for the Performing Arts
R
Sportball
V Vancouver Phoenix Gymnastics
V The Drama Class
M
propelhq.com richmond.ca
royalsoccer.com sportball.ca/vancouver
vancouverallstars.ca
vancouverhockeyschool.com phoenixgymnastics.com
West Van Soccer westvansoccer.com
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V
THEATRE
Bard on the Beach V V bardonthebeach.org/young-shakespeareanworkshops
gatewaytheatre.com thedramaclass.com
NS Vancouver Film School vfs.edu
V
OTHER Aspire Learning Academy Educational Camps
NS
aspiremathacademy.com
Fraser Academy
V Sasamat Outdoor Centre
JCC Camps
V Seabreeze Community Centre
fraseracademy.ca jccgv.com
BC SPCA Kids Camp
FV SFU Camps
kidszonecamp.ca
Bricks 4 Kidz
bricks4kidz.com/canada-britishcolumbiasurrey
BN
sfu.ca/camps
DS La Movida Fashion Design Academy
V The Cut Fashion Academy
V V
thecutfashionacademy.com
lamovida.ca
Build a Biz Kids
M Langara College Camp
UBC FarmWonders V farmwonders.ca
Chess2Inspire Association
M Metro Vancouver
Urban Safari V urbansafari.ca
Cousteau French International School
M Mulgrave Camp
buildabizkids.com
langara.ca
chess2inspire.org
metrovancouver.org mulgrave.com
cousteauschool.org
Resort Municipality M of Whistler
Europa Language School europals.ca
V
coalharbourcc.ca
M Kids Zone Camp
spca.bc.ca/kids
FV
loftcountry.ca
DS
Vancouver Chess School NS vanchess.ca
V/O
YMCA Youth Leadership SW vanymca.org
V
Young Entrepreneur Learning Labs
whistler.ca
Robotics Building Camp
M
M yelearninglabs.com
bricks4kidz.com
Aarm Dental Group
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www.aarm-dental.com Family Resource Guide 2022
21
At Home Activities ctivities that Transform the Way Kids & Teens Learn We are thrilled to introduce you and your family to HomeLearners Network, a program by SelfDesign Learning Foundation! HomeLearners Network combines our 25 years of experience in providing home learning and resources to tens of thousands of kids with fun, innovative and creative activities. HomeLearners Network offers unique At Home Activities (AHAs) that help your kids and teens in K-12 have fun while discovering all sorts of great things like critical thinking, physics and social justice while developing meaningful qualities like empathy, self-expression and collaboration. All of our activities are designed and guided by passionate BC certified educators, and based on best educational practices. HomeLearners Network is a place where kids and teens can explore and discover new passions and ideas in collaboration with family and friends. From activities your kids can do anytime to multi-day live, educator-led activities, we have a lot to offer your family Here at HomeLearners Network, our world-class certified instructors and educators offer a ton of hands-on creativity both on and off the screen. With many At Home Activities (AHAs) including Realtimes (live, educator-led) and Anytimes (downloadable), and new ones being added weekly…there’s something perfectly-suited for every kid and teen! These activities can be done solo, together with your family, as a PAC or your kids can do them with a group of their friends. From building a board game and making claymation art to constructing a robotic hand or learning watercolour basics, we have you covered. Relationships and connections are at the heart of our program We use technology as a tool to build real connections between fingers and brains, and most importantly between people. Technology is also used as a tool for communicating and guiding ideas in a safe and inclusive environment. Our certified educators believe ‘the more the merrier’, and are all about helping kids and teens build relationships with each other, grownups, as well as their families, friends and educators. HomeLearners Network really is transforming screen time into quality time. Try it out for yourself! Learn more and sign up your PAC, kid or teen for a fun and inspiring activity today at www.homelearnersnetwork.com!
22
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2022-03-24 2:31 PM
At Home Activity Gift for Your Family! HomeLearners Network offers At Home Activities (AHAs) for kids & teens to help them pursue their passions, learn new things, build relationships and have FUN. Designed by world-class educators, valued by grownups. With numerous Realtime (live educator-led), Anytime (downloadable) and Camp (multi-day) At Home Activities to choose from (and new ones being added weekly!), there’s something perfectly-suited for every kid and teen.
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Family Resource Guide 2022
23
The Dos & Don’ts of Preparing for Summer Camp Quick tips on getting ready for the big send-off
W
hether it’s your child’s first time away at overnight camp or the fifteenth, here—courtesy of OurKids. net—are some quick tips on getting ready for the big send-off.
DOS
Communicate: Let the camp director know if your child is reluctant, apprehensive or worried about heading off to camp. Counselors can help ease the camper into the first few days. Paperwork: Ensure all registration and information forms are fully completed. This provides valuable and critical information on all campers. The counselors study this information prior to camp and are ready when the campers arrive. Orientation: Attend a camp orientation or open house; this is a chance for you and your child to meet the staff and learn about their programs. Ask questions and make notes on important issues for you. (I.e. Is the camp
24
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equipped to deal with campers who have allergies?) Connect: Check the camp’s website, social media links, DVD and information packages. Connect with the camp you’ve chosen through their social media profiles and keep important email addresses with you. Get Involved: Talk to other parents and involve your child in the process from the start. The more they learn about camp, the less anxious they will be. Update Information: Let the camp know if a regular medication has been discontinued recently. And if your child is getting over any sort of communicable illness, the camp needs to know. Label Items: Iron-on labels are great for fabrics while permanent markers or even colourful nail polish works for everything else. Send along extra labels, just in case. Training Camp: Sleepovers can be great practice for avoiding separation anxiety, es-
pecially for first-timers. Additionally, some camps now offer family camp, where parents can accompany their young campers for trial periods. Choose Wisely: It’s camp and kids will get dirty. Pack older clothes or items your child has almost outgrown. Pack Medication: Send along prescription medicines, in their original containers, making sure instructions are on the label. If your child needs an EpiPen, asthma puffer or other special medications close at hand, they can be kept in a fanny pack for easy access. Remember to discuss these issues with the camp director and counselors. Get Your Child Involved: Independence is a great by-product of going to camp, so have your child pack her own bag. Help her plan what she will need: use a detailed checklist and oversee the operation but let her pack. With youngsters, pack the bag together. Keep in Touch: Mail a letter to your camper
Overnight Camps a week before camp starts, so it arrives before they get there. Pack self-addressed, stamped envelopes so that they can write you back.
Camp Ecolart
DON’TS
eurekacamp.ca
Force It: Don’t force your youngster to attend camp. Be sure they are ready, willing and able. Make Promises: If your camper is reluctant, suggest that they “give it their best,” and tell them that you will re-evaluate for next year. Never suggest that you will come pick them up if they don’t like it. Instill the expectation that they will stay for the entire session. Even the most apprehensive camper will often surprise Mom and Dad with: “I want to go for a whole month next year!” Pressure: Don’t set your child up for disappointment by overselling how wonderful the camp experience was for you. Stay positive but let them enjoy camp in their own way. Worry: Stay positive about your child’s camp time. Don’t dwell on telling them how much you will miss them (though you will), and don’t overplay all the “fun” things you have planned while they are away. Encourage them to enjoy camp their way. Send Valuables: Money, cell phones and jewelry are not needed at camp. Crafty campers will create their own new bracelets and other adornments. Criticize: Don’t criticize or belittle your child if their camp experience isn’t totally positive. Be encouraging. Overpack: Never overpack. Follow the camp’s guidelines. Each camp offers suggestions on what to pack and how to pack. They’ve done this before—heed their suggestions. Burn: Don’t forget the sunscreen. Be a Heli-Parent: Camp directors and counselors are focused on the campers. Don’t send them daily emails, letters or phone calls to check up. If there are issues, they will contact you. If you need to touch base, once a session is sufficient. Procrastinate: Don’t leave things until the last minute. Pack ahead of time. Push: You’re a keen kayaker who also loves long hikes and wilderness excursions. Your son prefers the arts and drama programs. Don’t push your kids to follow your trail. Let them blaze their own.
campecolart.com
SW ing International-Canada. Founded in 1966,
Qwanoes is an ideal place for high adventure, fun-filled, life-changing experiences.
Camp Eureka Camp Fircom fircom.ca
Camp Luther campluther.ca
Camp Pringle
camppringle.com
Camp Qwanoes
NS FV M M
qwanoes.ca Situated on 55 acres of magnificent scenic waterfront property on Vancouver Island between Victoria and Nanaimo, Qwanoes is a fully accredited member of the BC Camping Association and Christian Camp-
Camp Squeah
FV
Camp Summit
SW
squeah.com
campsummit.ca
FDT Academy Inc
V
Fireside Adventures
M
fdtacademy.com
firesideadventures.ca
Stillwood Camps stillwood.ca
YMCA Camps of Greater Vancouver
FV V
vanymca.org/camps
Family Resource Guide 2022
25
Family Business BABY FURNITURE
Montessori on the move in 2022-2023
Grades K-7 5550 Fraser Street Vancouver
inBed Organics Baby Furniture Collection
V inBed Organics Custom Mattress & Frame Gallery
TJ’s The Kiddies Store
V
Kids Market, Granville Island 1496 Cartwright Street 778-892-4044 Sleep little Sheep Baby furniture and bedding collection by inBed Organics are made in Canada. Through its Greenguard GOLD Certification, combining it with our certified organic crib mattresses, you can have peace of mind that your baby will get the healthy sleep it need to grow and develop. tjskids.com
www.WestsideMontessoriAcademy.ca
LOVE OF LEARNING starts here For information call:
604-434-9611 info@westsidemontessoriacademy.ca
Our Casa dei Bambini program (ages 3-5) continues at our current home at Vancouver’s Italian Cultural Centre
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zappedoutfitters.com
1683 Chestnut Street 604-630-BEDS (2337) inBed Organics provides 100% Natural and certified Organic, handcrafted latex mattresses and a variety of organic GOTS and cotton sleeping products, promoting a healthy sleep environment for children and their sleep deprived parents, resisting dust-mites, mold, mildew and bacteria, also naturally hypoallergenic.
PHOTOGRAPHY M
hudsonwren.com
M
TRAVEL Manning Park
O
V Tourism Harrison
FV
FOOD Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co
V
Hudson Wren Portraits
CLOTHING Zapped Outfitters
Sign up to get the latest updates from Westside Montessori Academy
KIDS FURNITURE
manningpark.com
rockymountainflatbread.ca Family owned and operated we always put family first. Our farm to pizza food philosophy is to use local and organic produce, Ocean Wise seafood as well as free-range organic meats. We support over 50 farmers and suppliers since 2004! We are also proud to be a 100% nut-free restaurant that offers gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options.
tourismharrison.com
Travel Best Bets
M
travelbestbets.com V
Vancouver
BN Burnaby/New West
R
Richmond
NS North Shore
DS Delta/Surrey
SW Squamish/Whistler
TC Tri-Cities
M Multiple
FV Fraser Valley
O
Online
Family Support FAMILY SUPPORT Family Services of Greater Vancouver
HEALTH & WELLNESS M AARM Dental Group
fsgv.ca Family Services of Greater Vancouver is a non-profit that offers more than 50 free programs, services and workshops across the Lower Mainland—from parenting support groups to cooking classes to 1:1 financial coaching.
aarm-dental.com
MENTAL HEALTH V Children’s Foundation of BC childrens-foundation.org
EZbrace Dental
V Infant Mental Health Promotion
PDG Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
M Kelty Mental Health
SPACE Treatment for Parenting Anxious Children
V
ezbrace.ca
ruralmentalhealth.ca
keltymentalhealth.ca
pdgdental.com
recrespite.com
bcacc.ca/counsellors/paula-foran M SPACE stands for Supportive Parenting for O Anxious Childhood Emotions and is a parent-based treatment program for children and adolescents M with anxiety, OCD and related problems. Parents (and other caregivers) participate in SPACE treatment sessions. In most cases the M child or adolescent does not need to attend the treatment sessions.
Vancouver & Lower Mainland Multicultural Family Support
M Vancouver’s Pediatric & Family Wellness Chiropractor
Foundry
foundrybc.ca
Kids Help Phone
Text 686868 | kidshelpphone.ca
Learning Disabilities Society ldsociety.ca
Recreational Respite
vlmfss.ca/community-resources
V
familywellnesschiro.ca
WeeSleep Certified Sleep Consultant wee-sleep.com
M
MENTORING Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver
M
bigbrothersvancouver.com Our vision is that all children and youth are empowered to reach their full potential through mentorship. We proudly serve the Lower Mainland from West Vancouver to White Rock, BC. Visit our website to learn more about enrolling a child or becoming a volunteer.
SPECIAL NEEDS Developmental Disabilities Association Inclusive Childcare develop.bc.ca
PossAbilities posabilities.ca
Family Resource Guide 2022
M BN
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Annual Family Events JANUARY 1: Polar Bear Swim
Celebrate at home with a “digital dip.” Share your video/photo online at #VanPolarSwim
FEBRUARY 14: Valentine’s Day 21: Family Day
Free events include Surrey’s Historic Stewart Farm, Burnaby Village Museum’s 110-year-old carousel, a screening of Disney’s Encanto at Richmond’s City Centre Community Centre, skating at Burnaby rinks and a nature walk at Riverview forest in Coquitlam.
MARCH 14–25: Spring Break 16–20: Celtic Festival
Various locations, downtown Vancouver Celebrate with a comedy night, a familyfriendly scavenger hunt and a free outdoor festival. celticfestvancouver.com
18–20: Monster Jam
Pacific Coliseum, PNE Monster trucks in races and stunt competitions. pne.ca/event/monster-jam/2022-03-18
APRIL 1–3: Festival Du Bois
Mackin Park, Coquitlam BC’s largest annual francophone festival, featuring family-friendly music and entertainment. festivaldubois.ca
9–10: Sakura Days Japan Fair
Van Dusen Gardens, Vancouver Celebrate all things Japan with food, performances, art and culture. fPart of the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival. vandusengarden. org/events/sakura-days-japan-fair-2
15: Good Friday 15–17: Easter at Maan Farms
Abbotsford Take part in two egg-citing events during the family-friendly Easter activities over the weekend. maanfarms.com/pages/easter
31–June 5: Vancouver Children’s Festival A fun festival for kids at Granville Island. childrensfestival.ca
JUNE 10–12: West Coast Women’s Show
Tradex, Abbotsford BC 200+ venders, a food truck festival, music, family fun activities and a Kids Zone. westcoastwomen.net
12: Fraser Valley Children’s Festival
18: Easter Monday
Fraser River Heritage Park, Mission Performances, music, bhangra dancers and art. missionartscouncil.ca
22: Earth Day
19: Father’s Day
An annual event to demonstrate support for environment protection. earthday.ca
24: Vancouver Sun Run
In-person, virtual and hybrid options available. vancouversunrun.com
MAY 7: CityFest
Shipyards, North Vancouver A youth-focused event and the Lower Mainland’s largest skate competition in North Vancouver. cnv.org
8: Mother’s Day 23: Victoria Day 23: Fort Langley May Day Fair & Parade A community festival and parade in its 100th year. maydayfortlangley.com
23–July 3: Royal Canadian International Circus
Prepare to be mesmerized, astounded, thrilled and captivated by a showcase of elite circus artists from around the world. royalcanadiancircus.ca
30–July 1: Steveston Salmon Festival
Parade, salmon barbecue, horticultural show and family activities. stevestonsalmonfest.ca
JULY 1: Canada Day 8–10: Carnaval del Sol
A large Latin American festival in Vancouver. carnavaldelsol.ca
9: Khatsahlano Street Party
A free street festival that takes over 10 blocks along West 4th Avenue. kitsilano.ca
29–31: Abbotsford Agrifair
Exhibition Park in Abbotsford An agricultural fair where the community can celebrate its agricultural roots through programs, entertainment, food and education. agrifair.ca
TBA: Whistler’s Children’s Festival
Online entertainment and in-person activities for kids and families. Arts and crafts, storytellers, dance parties and a kids’ art exhibition. whistler.com/events/whistler-childrensfestival
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AUGUST 1: BC Day July 30–Aug 1: Brigade Days at Fort Langley
Historical re-enactments and other familyfriendly activities over the BC Day long weekend. pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/bc/langley
July 30–Aug 1: Squamish Days Loggers Sports Festival
A parade, bed races, ax-throwing contest and other logger competitions. squamishdays.ca
5–7: Abbotsford Airshow
Western Canada’s largest airshow. abbotsfordairshow.com
5–7: Chilliwack Fair
Celebrating all things agricultural. chilliwackfair.com
28: Pet-a-Palooza
A free “Day of the Dog” street party in Yaletown. petapaloozawest.com/vancouver
PNE
Take a ride or see a show at the annual Pacific National Exhibition. pne.ca
SEPTEMBER 5: Labour Day 30: National Day for Truth & Reconciliation
10: Thanksgiving TBA: Celebrate the Night
A family-friendly Halloween event with fireworks in Maple Ridge the weekend before Halloween. mapleridge.ca/1758/Celebratethe-Night
TBA: Parade of Lost Souls
Commercial Drive, Vancouver A parade and Halloween-ish celebrations around Commercial Drive.
24: Diwali Festival
The biggest, brightest and most popular event in the Indian calendar. diwalifest.ca
NOVEMBER
A time to reflect on Canada’s residential school system. orangeshirtday.org
11: Remembrance Day
Vancouver Dragon Boat Festival
World-class racing, music, culture and art on False Creek. concorddragonboatfestival.ca/ championshipweekend
Stanley Park Christmas lights and miniature train rides. vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/ bright-nights-train.aspx
TBA: Riverfest in New Westminster
19–Jan 22: Canyon Lights
Celebrate World Rivers Day with art, historical and environmental exhibits along New Westminster Quay. fraserriverdiscovery.org/ riverfest
OCTOBER 8: Fort Langley Cranberry Festival
A family-oriented event celebrating the cranberry harvest. fortlangleyproject.org/ community/cranberryfestival
TBA: Bright Lights
Capilano Park, North Vancouver Christmas lights with heights at Capilano Suspension Bridge. capbridge.com/explore/ canyon-lights
TBA: Festival of Lights at Van Dusen Gardens
See the gardens transformed into a fairy-tale land with one million twinkling lights and themed displays. vandusengarden.org/ explore/events
Vancouver Christmas Market
An outdoor German-themed market at Jack Poole Plaza. vancouverchristmasmarket.com
DECEMBER PNE WinterLights
A magical holiday journey at the PNE. pne.ca/winterlights
TBA: Carol Ships Shoreline Celebration A Christmas even with a bonfire, live music, and an parade of boats l it up with holiday lights. dnv.org
TBA: Maple Ridge Christmas Festival
A community event at Memorial Peace Park that’s followed by a parade. mapleridge.ca
TBA: New Westminster Santa Claus Parade
A Christmas-themed parade along Columbia Street. newwestcity.ca/calendar-of-events
TBA: Surrey Santa Claus Parade & Big Rigs for Kids
A family-friendly event with decorated big-rig trucks, carols and other activities. surreysantaparade.com/big-rig-for-kids
4th Vancouver Santa Claus Parade Family-friendly activities and a parade in downtown Vancouver.
19–26: Hanukkah 21: Winter Solstice Lantern Festival An annual community event with lanternmaking workshops, fire performances and outdoor processions at various locations.
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5 Nature Connection Activities
“M
om, what story do you think this rock has to tell?” asks my then six-year-old son. I was proud and relieved. He tapped into mystery and wonder when we connect with Mother Nature—often easier for kids than adults!
Photo: Brendon Purdy
If you asked me, a root cause of our current climate chaos and ecological collapse is our profound disconnection with the living world. It’s also leading to climate anxiety and eco-grief. Ponder this: “You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.” –Rumi We can take steps to reconcile our relationship to our non-human kin. Then we’ll do less harm to ourselves, others and the planet. Each day find mystery, magic, seek beauty and awe. Being in nature takes you out of yourself and it’s in nature you realize, there’s more in the world than me. As a family, try a playful game to sense perception exercises to help experience Mother Nature as kin, a teacher and even a healer: Sleeping Fawn. In this game children are sleeping fawns. Fawns must stay still but keep their faces shown while they pretend their deer mom is away. An adult plays the coyote, who sniffs around the field or forest looking for its prey. Remember fawns don’t have a scent! Stillness is the secret and allows kids to sink into nature—a nice change from popular pursuit games. The coyote tries to get the fawns to move without touching them or speaking words. Coyote behaviour like yelping, jumping and playing or being foolish is okay. When the fawn moves, it’s “caught” and out of the game. Forest schoolers know this game from Coyote’s Guide to Connecting with Nature by Jon Young, Ellen Haas and Evan McGown. 30
WestCoastFamilies.com
Talk to plants and animals. Did you plant a pandemic garden or start a butterfly garden with native plants? Chat with carrots, tomatoes, huckleberries, or house plants as if they are a conscious being. Speak out loud because your words show respect and connection. It may seem silly at first (for adults),
Birthday gratitude. Practice an annual gratitude ritual on your birthday! Gratitude is a social emotion; it points to what’s already there. It also solidifies our relationship with living mystery, enhances our resilience and will help us face hard information. What do you notice happening in nature on our birth-
Photo: Krystle Schofield
but this practice develops relationships with the more-than-human world. It helps widen our boundaries for compassion. Nature reciprocity. Act as if everything you meet is alive, that it matters and has its own story—the rock, the moss, a tree. Joanna Macy’s Work That Reconnects shares this exercise and more to encourage us to be open to communication. Whisper and touch the trees. Practice witnessing and being seen. Show reciprocity. Ask your child: Is the water or tree looking back at you? Is it sensing or watching you as you are sensing and watching it? Do you think rocks speak to water? Let your senses be awake and speak aloud a gratitude. Send that tree love and thanks, wish it well with how the world is. Forest floor cuddle. Lay on your belly on the forest floor. Tune into the sounds, smells and sights. Notice the tiny fungi, mosses and look up to the canopy. It’s grounding to sense your smallness, feel humble and notice the power of your insignificance at this scale. Comfortable here? Try cupping your face with your hands, resting on your elbows. Close your eyes for a few minutes and imagine a landscape, a cherished pet or person as you cup your face. This practice can wake up the vagus nerve, aka the physical manifestation of the soul. Tune into your mind-body connection, calm the nervous system and chill out. Soak it all up! You can also try this at the beach, on a mountain top, or in the backyard.
day? What’s in bloom or what is going to rest? What are the smells and sounds in nature? What textures do you notice in the sky, on a leaf or in the snow? It can be grounding to reflect on what was happing on Earth when you took your first breath of air. Powerful acts to reconnect also include walking barefoot, skipping rocks, stargazing, making a mud pie, or smelling the rain! Kids and adults alike need to access their feelings about our living world, it’s wonder, loss and mystery. Nurture wonder and nourish that relationship with the living world through storybooks, too. Some good ones: 1. You Are Stardust by Elin Kelsey 2. A Stone Sat Still by Brendan Wenzel 3. Frog Girl by Paul Owen Lewis 4. Up the Mountain Path by Marianne Dubuc We’re all a participant in this wondrous universe. Lindsay Coulter is a writer, educator, facilitator, naturalist, community catalyst, soul activist, mentor and dedicated mother of two. She’s the Director of Communications, Culture and Community at EPIC Learning Centre, a forest and nature school in Victoria. Find her @ SaneAction on Instagram and Facebook.
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