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WestCoast Families June 2011
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1June 2011
THE Local Guide for Active Urban Families June 2011 FREE
Happy Father’s Day!
Summer LearningSummer Party Guide
June is Bike Month!
James Coleridge of Bella Galateria
2 WestCoastFamilies.com
the smart choice in education
enriched curriculumindividualized reading, writing, math, science, computers, music, arts, French, sports, drama, yoga, dance
specialized programstraditional 3 year cefa™ Junior Kindergarten program for 2-3, 3-4 and 4-5 year olds; cefa baby™ for 1-2 year olds
excellent facultycefa™ certified teachers also licensed in ece and trained in montessori and reggio. Loving and nurturing teachers inspire children to learn using exclusive cefa™ educational methods and games
full day or part-time schoolon-site chef, classrooms of 12-16 children, cinema, circus, art room and art gallery
West Vancouver 2008 Park Royal South 604.913.7713
Canada Way 4970 Canada Way 604.299.2373
Langley 100-19950 88th Avenue East 604.881.2332
North Vancouver 402-935 Marine Drive 604.929.2332
New Westminster 725 Carnarvon Street 604.777.0053
Established in 1998
VISIT WWW.CEFA.CA TO SEE OUR CURRENT AVAILABILITY AND
604 708-CEFA (2332) www.cefa.ca
[email protected] Rock 15300 Croydon Drive [email protected]
Kingsway 4021 Kingsway [email protected]
APPLY NOW!
Vancouver 2946 Commercial Drive [email protected]
Richmond 10811 No. 4 Road [email protected]
4 WestCoastFamilies.com
6 WestCoastFamilies.com
25
Our 3rd Annual Readers’ Choice Awards are
Launched!
Summer Fun Resource Guide
WestCoast Mom: Dating as a Mom
July/August
26 WCD Profile James Coleridge of Bella Gelateria27 WCD Feature Cool Dads28 WCD Events29 June is Bike Month!
In Our Next Issue
From the Editor8 Editor’s Note8 Your Thoughts10 Contests13 WCF News13 WCF Presents30 Where to Find Us30 Community Calendar
June 2011
It’s all about Dads!Cool Dads, Dads & Daughters, and more!
Father Kali with daughters Tuuli & Xyla celebrate Father’s Day with a romp in the park!
Photographed by Dylan Doubt
On Our Cover
Sign Up for Our Email BlastAnd get Exclusive Access to
Online ContestsLatest Finds & Deals
Special OffersEvent Listings
…and much more!
1June 2011
THE Local Guide for Active Urban Families June 2011 FREE
Happy Father’s Day!
Summer LearningSummer Party Guide
June is Bike Month!
James Coleridge of Bella Galateria
Top Story
20
Follow us on Twitter!twitter.com/wcfmag
Features14 Summer Party Guide!17 Summer Learning: Avoid Summer Brain Drain18 Summer Learning: Resource Listings
Columns12 WestCoast Finds: Finds for Dad, Kids and More!20 Help Me, Sara: On Dads and Daughters21 Health: Two Top Chefs on Cooking for Kids22 Travel: Utah’s Red Canyon24 Reading Corner: Great reads for dads, bikers and kids!
8 WestCoastFamilies.com
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y father was, in many ways, a revolutionary specimen for his time. When I was a child, he was the one who did the laundry and household
chores, drove me to most of my activities, and helped me with my homework. These days, he relishes his new role as Grandpa, and is the go-to for roughhousing, piggyback rides and the fixing of toys (and the occasional bandage). When friends ask how my daughter deals with not having a father-figure, I point to him and say, “She does.”
It is a common (and unfortunate) misperception that a dad must be a biological parent. Dads come in all shapes and sizes. Whether it’s as a step-dad, uncle, grandpa, friend, teacher or mentor, the fathering that’s offered is equally valid and precious. And despite the tendency to give motherhood the limelight in recent years, a growing body of research insists that dads will never be out of date. A father’s unique influence on both male and female children is irreplaceable and essential. And with more dads taking longer parental leaves and then staying home to raise their kids, that influence is happily becoming more prevalent.
We take a look this month at the special relationship that dads have with their daughters, for instance, as well as what actually makes a “cool” dad (and no, it’s not
that pea coat from Haven). We also talk to two top chefs (who are also dads, of course) about feeding kids right.
June also means the return of our party guide, and we hope that you’ll find our resource listings handy for all your upcoming celebrations. It’s also Bike Month, so our travel article focuses on a two-wheeled adventure in the Utah desert, and we have some useful info for those planning to make a purchase or simply maintain what they already own. I have been on the hunt for a good city cruiser myself. The munchkin is insisting on family bike rides in the near future, and I’m ashamed to admit, the last time I was on a bike, I was not yet old enough to vote. Wish me luck.
There’s a lot to celebrate this month (including what looks like the start of summer—finally) and I hope you are able to get out there and enjoy it, whether on foot or wheel.
See you next month!
editor’s note
M
My father didn’t tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it.~Clarence Budington Kelland, American writer (1881-1964)
your thoughts
I just wanted to mention how much I enjoyed reading your profile on Diane Srivastava and Tania Zulkoskey [WestCoast Mom, May]. I loved their honesty and candour on raising twins and I, too, hope that the government recognizes the need for dual parental leave in the case of multiples. As a mother of twins myself, I can relate to the challenges of two babies and it is a true necessity to have both parents at home in that first year, sharing in the care. I personally would have truly appreciated my husband being home with me, and I also would have loved if he had been able to help with the breastfeeding, too, as Diane was! Anyway, I am impressed that these two moms were willing to sacrifice some income by both choosing to stay home with their babies. Their children are fortunate indeed and these moms are setting such a great standard. Thanks for this story!Linda Scotch
Thank you for the great article on helping children have a positive self-image [Kids and Body Image, March]. The media bombards our children with overly sexual and highly unrealistic images on a non-stop basis, and, as a parent, I often find it a little overwhelming trying to counteract what my son and daughter exposed to both on screen and at school. I hope that our schools will take a stronger role in future in helping parents in this fight to save our kids’ self-image. Tracy Kellinger
Got anything to say, rant about or praise? We want to hear it all! Email [email protected] with your comments, questions and suggestions, and be entered to win monthly prizes!
13988 Maycrest Way, Suite 140,2nd FloorRichmond, BC V6V 3C3Tel: 604.249.2866 Fax: [email protected]
Publisher Andrea [email protected]
Managing Editor Anya [email protected]
Art Director & Layout Krysta [email protected]
Accounts Receivable & Bookkeeping Jennifer Brulé[email protected]
Administration / Editorial Assistant Jennifer [email protected]
Advertising [email protected]
For distribution inquiries, please contact: Jennifer Bruyns
Contributors:Teresa de La Boursodiere, Debbie Bowman,Jennifer Bruyns, Sara Dimerman,Dylan Doubt Photography, Michele Kambolis,Kavita Khajuria, Gina Spanos Photography, Jared Walker.
WestCoast Families (WCF) is an independent, regional parenting publication. As the Lower Mainland’s prime resource for happy, healthy & active families, WCF provides informative and relevant content.
All contents copyrighted ©. Written permission from the publisher is required to reproduce, quote, reprint or copy any material from WestCoast Families.
PUBLICATIONS MAIL 40027247
Published nine times per year in British Columbia, Canada. Total circulation: 50,000
For queries about editorial submissions, please view the contributor guidelines on our website.
To submit a community calendar event or share your feedback, please email [email protected].
WestCoast Families is proud to have been selected as a mom-friendly
employer for the 2010 Progressive Employers of Canada List. And congratulations to our
fellow inductees!
9June 2011
10 WestCoastFamilies.com
contests
WIN this Party Package from The Party Monkey and Party Arts (Value $250)The Party Monkey is your one-stop shop for supplies, decorations, piñatas and more! Party Arts is a mobile service that provides crafts, balloons, face-painting and more! Prize includes a $100 Party Package from The Party Monkey that you can customize with your child’s favourite theme, plus a two-hour face painting and balloon art package worth $150 from Party Arts! www.thepartymonkey.ca | www.partyarts.ca
Deadline to Enter: June 30, 2011
WIN the Kodak Playsport Zx5 (Value $180)Specifically designed for adrenaline junkies, active dads will love the next generation of the Kodak Playsport Video Camera. The new waterproof, shockproof and dustproof Playsport Zx5 can help Dad capture his adventures in full 1080p HD video—even ten feet underwater—with the touch of a button and can keep up with all of dad’s wild adventures—whether he is skiing the slopes or surfing the waves. Equipped with the Kodak Share Button, the new Playsport makes it easy to share adventures with friends and family, allowing users to upload photos and videos straight to e-mail, the Kodak PULSE Digital frame, or social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Available at Best Buy, Future Shop, London Drugs and other major retailers. www.kodak.ca
Deadline to Enter: June 30, 2011
WIN a Family Prize Pack to experience Birds Up Close at the Vancouver Aquarium (Value $150)From June 4 until September 5, see falcons, hawks, eagles and more dynamic feathered acrobats in an unparalleled aerial show. Explore the unique relationships between seas and sky through up-close bird experiences and special educational programming throughout the galleries. Prize includes four admission passes and a special gift package. For more info, visit online. www.visitvanaqua.org
Deadline to Enter: June 30, 2011
Enter to win any of these great prizes online at www.westcoastfamilies.com!
WIN this Starter Gardening Package from President’s Choice (Value $167)Beautiful gardens start from the ground up, with healthy and vibrant soil and optimal growing conditions. Use this prize to get your garden in prime summer shape. Includes PC® Solar Illuminated Planter, PC® Soil Scoop, two bags of PC® Moisture Lock™ Premium Potting Soil, PC® Magic Grow® Blooms Single Dose Fertilizer 15-30-15, and a $50 President’s Choice® Gift Card—to buy flowers for your planter! www.presidentschoice.ca
Deadline to Enter: June 30, 2011
The Children’s Party SpecialistsFace painting, balloon animals,
arts and crafts, and more.
604-318-1261 • www.partyarts.ca
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11June 2011
12 WestCoastFamilies.com
Did you know we’re online? Read our current issue from your laptop, iPad or even iPhone! Just visit us at www.westcoastfamilies.com and click on the cover image! You can click through on any highlighted link, including ads, to read more!
westcoast finds
Make Parties Pop with Traceycakes’ Cake PopsThese colourful little treats are part cake, part popsicle and are made from hand rolled cake covered in icing and dipped in premium chocolate and then put on a lollipop stick. Available with a variety of toppings, as well as custom flavours and designs. $2 each. www.traceycakesonline.com
North America’s first biodegradable dental products!Did you know Canadians throw away up to 134 million toothbrushes annually? Vancouver company Clean Idea’s new EcoBrushes and EcoFlossers are the first biodegradable toothbrushes and flosses made from corn, wheat, tapioca and potatoes and designed to decompose into organic material. $3.99 each. Available at Shoppers Drug Mart and London Drugs, and online at Lavish and Lime. www.cleanideadental.com
Vibram Five-Finger Treksport from MECFor active dads! Keep that delightful barefoot feel and freedom of movement,
and add a bit more protection and cushioning for sustained happiness on longer, land-based hauls. Outsoles are lightly lugged 4mm Vibram performance rubber, for traction on trails and over more rugged terrain. $99. www.mec.ca
Le Creuset Ultimate Barbecue SetCelebrate this Father’s Day with this cool barbecue set from the brand behind the world’s finest enamelled cookware and accessories. Featuring a large serving platter with matching
barbecue jar and brush, available in cherry red. $99.99. Available at fine cook shops and online. www.lecreuset.com
Safe Summers with Safety TatsOne of the most frightening experiences for a child is getting lost. It happens all the time and many of us have vivid memories of going through the same thing ourselves. SafetyTat temporary tattoos give the child the peace of mind that help is just a phone call away. And now with high-tech QR codes that can be programmed with additional info like allergies, alternative emergency numbers and more. Starting at $9.99 for six. Available at Pinky Blue and online. www.safetytat.com
Orcas by Ayala MorielJust in time for Father’s
Day, this masculine scent from local bespoke perfumer Ayala Moriel has notes of ginger, lime and cedar wood, with hints of Egyptian geranium and boronia. $120 for 15 mL. Available at House of Jewels, Dream, Gentille Alouette, and online. www.ayalamoriel.com
Just forDAD
Just forDAD
Just forDAD
13June 2011
wcf news
wcf presents
Now Open! CLIFFWALK at Capilano Suspension Bridge300 feet (91m) above Capilano River, CLIFFWALK is an adrenaline-pumping series of narrow suspended stairs, bridges and walkways. A signature u-shaped bridge cantilevered over the river canyon and glass bottomed decks highlight the 700 foot (213m) journey offering spectacular river, canyon and rainforest views. Partnering with the David Suzuki Foundation, ecological information is creatively presented to enhance this one-of-a-kind experience. www.capbridge.com
Lovestruck Baby Fair Sunday, June 19, 10am-5pm Creekside Community Centre (Right next to Science World)Come out for a fabulous day of entertainment, shopping, fun, food and prizes! Harry and His Bucket Full of Dinosaurs will be there, as well as the Ta Daa Lady, face painting and much more! Tickets: Adults $5; Children over five $2; Children under five FREE.www.lovestruckbabies.com
Help with Date NightGotsitter.com is a new, free online service that offers families the chance to easily schedule babysitting with people they already know and trust. When a parent needs a sitter, he or she makes a request on the website and if the schedule matches your list of babysitter’s availability, then a text message or email is sent to all available sitters at once. This eliminates the frustration of calling multiple babysitters to find out which one is available. The service also allows babysitters to find jobs quickly and safely online with families they are already connected to by posting their availability on the easy-to-use website calendar. www.gotsitter.com
Are You Boat Safe?Six to eight million Canadians are boaters, but most aren’t aware about Transport Canada’s Competency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulations. If you’re planning to go boating this summer, here are some things to be aware of. All operators must carry proof of competency on board at all times. Proof of competency can be shown by obtaining a Please Craft Operator Card (PCOC) through passing an accredited boat safety test; proof of a boat safety test prior to April 1, 1999; an accepted marine certificate (see government website for full list); or a completed rental-boat safety checklist (although these are only good for the rental period). Remember, a PCOC is good for life! For full details and a list of accredited course providers, visit www.tc.gc.ca.
14 WestCoastFamilies.com
party guide
See ad in this issue
PARTY VENUESAcademy of Music and DanceSurrey | 604.951.3725White Rock | 604.531.3993Walnut Grove | 604.882.0422www.musicanddance.org
Bella Ceramica StudioWest Vancouver604.925.3115 | www.bellaceramicastudio.com
Burnaby Village Museum & Carousel 604.293.6501 | www.burnabyvillagemuseum.ca
Canlan SportsMultiple locations604.291.0626 | www.icesports.com
Castle Fun ParkAbbotsford604.850.0411 | www.castlefunpark.com
Chuck E. Cheese’sLangley604.534.9966 | www.chuckecheese.com
Circus WestVancouver604.252.3679 | www.circuswest.org
CliffhangerCoquitlam | 604.526.2402Vancouver | 604.874.2400Richmond | 604.276.0012www.cliffhangerclimbing.com
Collage CollageVancouver604.569.1929 | collagecollage.ca
Crash Crawly’sCoquitlam604.526.1551 | www.crash-crawlys.com
Creativ Music CentreNorth Vancouver604.929.4040 | www.creativ.ca
Delta Gymnastics604.943.0460 | www.deltagymnastics.com
Flip CityWalnut Grove604.888.3366 | www.flipcitygym.com
Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada604.513.4777
Fun4kidzRichmond | 604.279.5439West Vancouver | 604.925.0707www.fun4kidz.ca
Go Bananas!Langley | 604.514.7529North Vancouver | 604.982.0576Richmond | 604.204.0576www.gobananasplaycenter.com
Greater Vancouver ZooAldergrove604.856.6825 | www.gvzoo.com
Gymboree Play and MusicMultiple locationsgymboreeclasses.com Honeyland Canada—Dr. Bee BirthdaysPitt Meadows604.460.8889 | www.honeylandcanada.com
HR MacMillan Space CentreVancouver604.738.7827 | www.hrmacmillanspacecentre.com
Imagine Children’s MuseumEverett, Washington425.258.1006 | www.imaginecm.org
Jump! GymnasticsVancouver604.568.9690 | www.jumpgymnastics.ca
Jump Start Music & MovementCoquitlam604.777.7179 | www.jumpstartmusicandmovement.com
Koko’s Activity CentrePort Moody604.469.3357 | www.kokos.ca
e-mail: [email protected] • www.madscience.org/vancouver
Ask About our Exciting:• Birthday Parties • Events• School Programs • Pre-School Programs• Camps • In-Class field trips and more…Looking to spark your Children’s Imagination? Give Mad Science a Call! 604-591-9115
We bring FUN science to you!We bring FUN science to you!Hands On and Minds On, Mad Science is the Leading Fun Science Provider for Kids.
/vancouverver/vanc
more…m reion?ion?
91151591
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Laser DomeNorth Vancouver604.985.6033 | www.laserdome.net
Laughing Stock RanchLangley604.720.6484 | www.laughingstockranch.ca
Making Memories with ScrapbookingBurnaby604.299.3601www.makingmemorieswithscrapbooking.com
Maplewood FarmNorth Vancouver604.929.5610 | www.maplewoodfarm.bc.ca
Marpole-Oakridge Community Centre604.257.8180 | www.marpoleoakridge.org
McDonald’s RestaurantsMultiple locations www.mcdonalds.ca
Minoru Aquatic Centre 604.718.8020 | www.richmond.ca
My Gym Children’s Fitness CentreMaple Ridge604.465.1329 | www.my-gym.com
Omega Gymnastics AcademyCoquitlam604.464.1555 | www.omegagymnastics.com
Phoenix Gymnastics ClubVancouver604.737.7693 | www.phoenixgymnastics.com
Planet LazerLangley | 604.514.2282New Westminster | 604.515.4244Richmond | 604.448.9999www.planetlazer.net
Playland604.252.3663 | www.pne.ca
Quantum Gymnastics Centre604.465.9293 | www.quantumgym.com
Richmond Family Place604.833.0271 | www.richmondfamilyplace.ca
15June 2011
party guide
Richmond Olympic Oval778.296.1480 | www.richmondoval.ca
Richmond Go-Kart Track604.278.6184 | www.richmondgokarts.com
Safari Kids ZoneAbbotsford604.850.5536 | www.safarikidszone.ca
Safeguard Martial ArtsLangley604.532.0090 | www.langleykarate.com
Schokolade CaféVancouver604.253.9411 | www.schokoladecafe.com
Science World604.443.7443 | www.scienceworld.ca
Splashdown ParkTsawwassen604.943.2251 | www.splashdownpark.ca
SPCAMultiple locationswww.spca.bc.ca
Sugar ‘N SpiceCoquitlam604.469.6018 | www.sugarnspicecreations.ca
Surrey Nature Centre604.502.6065 | www.surrey.ca
The Adventure ZoneGranville Island604.608.6699 | www.theadventurezone.ca
The Arts ConnectionRichmond604.241.0141 | www.theartsconnection.ca
The Dizzy WhiskMobile778.998.3530 | www.dizzywhisk.com
The EdgeNorth Vancouver604.984.9080 | www.edgeclimbing.com
The Great EscapeLangley604.533.1432 | www.thege.ca
The Little GymLangley604.539.2543 | www.tlglangleybc.com
The Rock WallMaple Ridge604.460.0808 | www.therockwall.com
The Zone Bowling CentreCoquitlam & Richmond604.525.2695 | www.zbowl.com
Urban ChefMobile604.603.0334 | www.theurbanchef.ca
Urban Dance CoRichmond & Mobile604.277.4494 | www.urbandanceco.com
Vancouver Aquarium604.659.3552 | www.visitvanaqua.org
Vancouver Maritime Museum604.257.8310 | www.vancouvermaritimemuseum.com
Vancouver Police Museum604.665.3346 | www.vancouverpolicemuseum.ca
Vertical RealitySurrey604.594.0664 | www.verticalreality.ca
WatermaniaRichmond604.448.5353 | www.richmond.ca
WildPlay Element ParkMaple Ridge604.477.1197 | www.wildplay.com
Xcalibur BowlingSurrey604.580.2600 | www.xcaliburbowling.com
YMCAMultiple locationswww.vanymca.ca
DECORATIONS & SUPPLIESAll Wrapped Up Party Supplies 604.574.6127
Balloonery604.986.8787
Balloons-R-Fun604.534.8844
BC Children’s Hospital (Tribute cards) www.bcchf.ca
BC Playthings 604.986.4111 | www.bcplaythings.com
Bopomo604.678.1411 | www.bopomo.ca
Cards by Kids604.987.4187 | www.cardsbykids.ca
Carmela’s Cakes604.295.3933 | www.carmelascakes.com
Fratelli Bakery604.255.8926 | www.fratellibakery.com
Fun-in-a-Box Canada604.782.4345 | www.funinaboxcanada.com
It’s My Party Shop604.931.6040 | www.itsmypartyshop.ca
Joyful Celebrations604.756.1199 | www.joyfulcelebrations.ca
Just Imagine604.222.3523 | www.dressups.com
Kaboodles Toy StoreGranville Island | 604.684.0066West Point Grey | 604.224.5311www.kaboodlestoystore.ca
Kids MarketGranville Island604.689.8447 | www.kidsmarket.ca
Love Those Loot Bags604.888.6772 | www.lovethoselootbags.com
Par-T-Perfectwww.par-t-ware.ca
Party Arts and Crafts604.318.1261 | www.partyarts.ca
Party Tailors604.461.1711 | www.partytailors.com
Perfect Party by Cody877.662.5533 | www.perfectpartybycody.com
Pettiskirt Photo Parties by Gina Spanos604.298.3611 | www.ginaspanos.com
Portraits by Anita604.376.6447 | www.portraitsbyanita.com
Sweets and Treatswww.sweetsandtreats.ca
Tartlets Pastry & Cake Design604.724.7625 | www.tartlets.ca
16 WestCoastFamilies.com
party guide
The Balloon Shop604.684.0959 | www.theballoonshop.com
The Party Bazaar—Bazaar and Novelty604.873.5241 | www.thepartybazaar.com The Party is Ready 604.945.5321 | www.thepartyisready.com
The Party Monkey778.298.1777 | thepartymonkey.ca
Tracycakes Bakery Cafe Abbotsford | 604.852.1904Fort Langley | 604.888.1984White Rock | 604.541.4668www.tracycakesonline.com
Turkey’s Party Makers 604.576.1467 | www.turkeyspartymakers.com
The Village Toy Shop 604.949.0444 | www.villagetoyshop.ca
ENTERTAINERS & PACKAGESAbracadabra Magic Productions 604.788.9046 | www.magicshow2go.com
Absolutely Magical604.803.0887 | www.forevermagic.com
Anderson Chow Entertainment 604.526.9643 | www.andersonchow.com
Bell E Buttons The Clown 604.984.4329 | www.bellebuttons.com Bobs & Lolo778.329.8644 | www.bobsandlolo.com
Bonkers the Clown 604.576.1842 | www.gobonkers.ca
Castletop Characters 604.736.0876 | www.castletopcharacters.com
Corycatures 604.813.3729 | www.corycatures.com
High Touch-Science Made Fun Parties 778.737.5277 | www.sciencemadefunbc.net
Jamie Wilson 888.661.8969 | www.vancouverjuggler.com
John Kaplan’s Makin’ Magic 604.521.8804 | www.welikemagic.com
Jr Rockstars Birthdays 604.924.4499
Kellie Haines604.681.2329 | www.kelliehaines.com
Kidz Craftz 604.317.9816 | www.kidzcraftz.ca
Krafty Kidz 604.476.6676 | www.krafty-kidz.ca
Lime Girl Home Spa Parties 604.460.1289 | www.limegirl.ca
Lindsey Long Legs 604.727.7802 | www.stiltwalking.net
Mad Science 604.591.9115 | www.madscience.org/vancouver
Marla Rosen Custom Parties 778.322.7442 | www.emotionsbook.com
Mike’s Critters 604.598.3649 | www.mikescritters.com
Mehndi & More Body & Face Painting 604.812.2048 | www.mehndiandmore.com
Neale Bacon Ventriloquist 604.525.5089 | www.members.shaw.ca/baconandfriends
Norden the Magician 604.916.9879 | www.magicshows.ca
Pamper Your Soul Mobile Spa 604.836.6497| www.pamperyoursoul.com
Par-T-Perfect Burnaby | 604.987.3365Vancouver/North Vancouver | 604.987.3365Coquitlam/Surrey | 604.931.1913Fraser Valley | 604.931.1913www.par-t-perfect.com
Party Arts and Crafts604.318.1261 | www.partyarts.ca
Party Works Interactive 604.599.5541 | www.partyworks.bc.ca
Peter Rooke’s Fun Magic Shows 604.984.6822
Ray Wong Magic Entertainment604.439.8809 | www.raywongmagic.com
Ready Teddy Go 604.460.7217 | www.readyteddygo.ca
Starchild Entertainers604.541.0908 | www.starchild.bc.ca
Shé www.munchkinmusic.net
Suds N’ Scents604.859.7837 | www.sudsandscents.com
Take the Stress off Party Planning 778.227.5597
The Blues Berries 604.816.2684 | www.thebluesberries.com
The Great Marrdini604-803-4813 | www.marrdini.com
The Magic Of Yeeri604.306.6229 | www.yeeri.com
The Purple Pirate604.805.4395 | www.purplepirate.com
The Ta Daa Lady604.649.1979 | www.angelabrown.ca
Vancouver Magic Productions604.937.7258 | www.vancouvermagic.com
Will Stroet604.727.4413 | www.willmusic.ca
Zox of the Forest604.710.4234 | www.zoxoftheforest.com
17June 2011
summer learning
WBy Kavita Kajuria and Teresa de La Boursodiere
Reduce Summer Brain Drain and Increase Your Child’s Learning
hen planning this summer’s fun-filled activities, there are many things that you can do to ensure your family’s maximum development, learning, and neuroplasticity while reducing stress.
Optimizing brain and other daily functions such as cognitive activity, memory, executive functions, motor control, and perception can be achieved through engaging in specific activities. Active physical and mental participation improves brain development and can be used to enhance a person’s capacity to self-regulate and prevent both “brain drain” and pruning back of the brain’s neuronal networks.
Neuroplasticity occurs when our brain uses new neuronal circuits or loops. These circuits are formed by performing activities such as aerobic exercises and games, as well as everyday activities such as reading, art, and leisure activities. Activities that induce neuroplasticity also help improve awareness, judgment, processing new information and learning. Self-regulation capitalizes on the brain and body’s plasticity and ability to learn how to control and modify physiological activity to improve health, wellness, learning and performance.
This usually involves the use of some type of feedback loop so that the person is made aware of when they are achieving the desired goal. This can be achieved by monitoring physiological activities such as brain waves, heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, muscle activity, skin conductance, blood flow, and temperature. These are measured and fed back to the person in real time while they are carrying out daily activities or prescribed tasks so they can learn to moderate each activity when under stress, needing to focus, or trying to relax. Once these changes are brought to the person’s awareness, the person then experiences how to more effectively regulate their symptoms and achieve their goals.
Activities that improve self-regulation can be effective for improving behaviour, and reducing health symptoms. It can also be effective for addressing concerns for incontinence, pain, learning difficulties, and behavioural concerns. Normal stressors that children experience activate their “fight or flight” response. This causes their heart to beat faster, an increase in respiration, tensing of muscles, cold and sweaty hands, as well as a change in the stress chemicals being released in the brain and body.
Individuals with a heightened physiological reactivity are more vulnerable to stress and anxiety, as well as prolonged and excessive cardiovascular, electrocortical and hormonal activation. This suppresses immune function, and leads to health and behavioural problems, which can lead to chronic conditions. Aprroximately 20% of children have been shown to experience these psychophysiologic symptoms in their development.
Provide activities to help develop coping skills and enable them to change the way they perceive and react to stress. This could include diaphragmatic breathing, which has been shown to have a positive effect on every system in the body. It slows the heart rate and restores respiratory sinus arrhythmia, stimulates the immune system, and increases peripheral warming This will
create the sense of mastery and control. Another activity that teaches self-regulation is progressive muscle relaxation to bring to the person’s awareness the regions of the body that are tense. It reduces blood pressure, respiration, anxiety, and teaches people to relax all muscles in an organized fashion. Meditation can also bring deep states of relaxation while decreasing anxiety and improves physical symptoms. Another effective tool is exercise, which has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression, improve self-image and buffer against stress. Yoga, for example, has been shown to improve flexibility, mood, and enhance fitness though meditative awareness, breathing, and physical postures.
In addition, by participating in activities involving sensory and motor integration, the individual can improve those reflexes that develop both prior to birth and throughout life development. This optimizes growth and learning. These activities include balancing, rolling and walking on all four limbs (bear walk). Higher functional development occurs by specializing in a particular area of interest and enhancing one’s skills further. By focusing on activities that stimulate new aspects of learning, the brain develops in new areas while those that are not used frequently will be pruned off and perhaps forgotten by the brain.
Some activities that would increase your child’s learning are: swimming, cycling, playing ball games such as baseball, football, basketball or beach ball, as well as word games such as Scrabble, or computer word games. Even relaxing in a hammock will improve balance and vestibular functions. Activities should be age appropriate with clear learning objectives that offer simple encouraging cues to motivate the child and enhance participation. This will optimise their full development and prevent brain drain during the summer months.
Kavita Kajuria is an Occupational Therapist and Theresa de La Boursodiere (BSc, Thesis Neurosciences, MBA HCM) is Clinical Director at ADNC Neurofeedback Centre of B.C. (www.neurofeedbackclinic.ca), which specializes in using multisensory approaches to optimise learning, prevent atrophy of functions, and improve IQ.
18 WestCoastFamilies.com
summer learning
See ad in this issue
LEARNING CENTRESAvenir SchoolGifted school for grade five to nine students, enriched and accelerated curriculum.604.339.3478 | www.avenirschool.ca
BC Kids Education Centre Specializing in math and English programs.Vancouver | 604.321.0202 Richmond | 604.278.7705www.brainchild.org
Boundary Bay Montessori Offering quality education programs to help equip children with proper tools necessary to be independent adults while allowing their unique personalities to unfold.604.946.9814 | www.bbmh.com
Burnaby MontessoriOffering a quality Montessori summer school program during the month of July for children three to six years.604.298.1661 | www.burnabymontessori.com
Brainbridge Bilingual Education & Fine Arts Centre Offering preschool programs including language arts, math, science, social studies, music, arts and crafts, physical education and cultural immersion, as well as after-school programs for students in kindergarten to grade seven (including English, math and Mandarin). 604.322.6830 | www.brainbridge.ca
Capilano Learning Centre Providing learning sessions for both elementary and high school students in a variety of subjects with the main focus on ensuring students are improving and gaining confidence in school.604.983.3050 | www.captutors.com
Fraser Academy Association A fully accredited day school for students in grades one to 12 with dyslexia and language-based learning disabilities604.736.5575 | www.fraseracademy.ca
REACH Orton-Gillingham Learning Centre An academic remediation centre formed to assist individuals who are struggling to learn to read or spell.North Vancouver | 604.987.6760Langley | 604.888.8831www.reachlearningcenter.com
Reading Foundation Providing one-on-one attention to students struggling with reading and spelling or math and comprehension difficulties.604.222.2254 | www.readingfoundation.com
SelfDesign Learning Foundation SelfDesign (formerly Wondertree Learning Centres) is a learner-directed, enthusiasm-based educational methodology.877.353.3374 | www.selfdesign.org
Sylvan Learning Centre A wide variety of tutoring services available to kids of all ages, in-centre and/or online. Multiple locations.888.338.2283 | www.educate.com
Vancouver Learning Centre Offering unique and dynamic services (assessments, programs and teaching) for children and youth.604.738.2277 | www.vancouverlearningcentre.com
The Variety Learning CentrePrograms for children who are struggling academically, using the mediated learning approach.604.937.3641 | www.varietylearningcentre.org
TUTORING SERVICESAcademic Advantage Tutoring Servicing the entire Lower Mainland, offering in-home tutoring. 604.439.1790 | www.schooliseasy.com
Academy for Mathematics & English No matter what age or skill level, find the widest variety of workshops in every field from language arts to advanced functions, vectors and calculus.Richmond | 604.278.5109North Vancouver | 604.980.3633www.acadfor.com
Ho Math & Chess Learning Centre Whether you want to reinforce what you have learned or get ahead to enrich yourself, from math contest preparation to fun with math and chess camp, we offer an array of summer programs for children.604.263.4321 | www.mathandchess.com
Jacquelyn Rud’s Reading Center A multi-sensory, custom-tailored method designed to teach students to reach their full reading potential.www.readingcenters.com
Kumon Reading and math enrichment programs available that allow students to develop the skills necessary to have a richer, more successful educational experience.800.222.6284 | www.kumon.com
Learning Disabilities Association of B.C. Programs for students with reading deficits and learning disabilities, such as dyslexia.604.873.8139 | www.ldav.ca
Millennium Kids Learning Centre Specializing in programs for kids with learning challenges. Offering math, writing, comprehension and “brain builder” programs.604.461.3330www.millenniumlearningadvantage.com
Opus Academy Serving the growing need of enrichment and gifted education to high ability students of all ages and skill levels.Vancouver | 604.267.3749Richmond | 604.233.0577www.opusacademy.com
Oxford Learning CentresStudents will spend time exploring, discovering, creating and learning. Who knew kids could have so much fun improving their math, reading, writing, study, homework and learning skills? Multiple locations.www.oxfordlearning.com
Reach for the Stars MontessoriThrough the carefully planned classroom, learning materials and quality teachers, your preschool child will benefit from the quality education program. Multiple locations.604.688.7827 | montessoristar.com
19June 2011
summer learning
Aspire Integrative Remedial Educational Society Education for students with learning difficulties.604.534.7972
Canada Home Tutoring School Providing quality tutoring and coaching services in as convenient a way as possible.www.canadahometutoring.com
Club Z! In Home Tutoring Services One-on-one in-home tutoring to help improve grades, raise test scores, learn study skills and build academic confidence.866.448.8867 | www.clubztutoring.com
Ecole Francaise Internationale de Vancouver Offering education in French and English. North Vancouver.604.924.2457
Kumon Reading and math enrichment programs available that allow students to develop the skills necessary to have a richer, more successful educational experience.800.222.6284 | www.kumon.com
PD Plus Tutoring Services Provides in-home tutoring. 604.421.6101 | www.pdplustutors.com
Oxford Learning CentresStudents will spend time exploring, discovering, creating and learning. Who knew kids could have so much fun improving their math, reading, writing, study, homework and learning skills? Multiple locations.www.oxfordlearning.com
Progressive Learning Centre One-on-one tutoring services for kids and adults.604.733.4400
Sylvan Learning Centre A wide variety of tutoring services available to kids of all ages, in-centre and/or online. Multiple locations.888.338.2283 | www.educate.com
Teachers’ Tutoring Service Find a tutor for kids in all grades. 604.730.3410 | www.tutor.bc.ca
Tutor DoctorProviding affordable one-on-one supplementary education to students and adults through in-home tutoring.604.943.0555 | www.inhometutors.ca
HOME LEARNINGBC Home Learners’ Association Supports families who choose to educate their kids at home. 866.444.2299 | www.bchla.bc.ca
Burnaby Online Allows students to work online with the Burnaby School District to meet their educational needs.604.664.2526 | www.online.sd41.bc.ca
Lochiel U-Connect Education Centre Innovative programming for home learners. 604.534.4020 | www2.sd35.bc.ca/uconnect
New Westminster Home Learners Program Program focuses on a three-way partnership between parents, teachers and children. Kindergarten to grade eight. 604.517.5917
Open School B.C. Resources for kindergarten to grade 12; online and in print.888.883.4766 | openschool.bc.ca
SelfDesign Learning Foundation Offering services and support to the home learning community.604.224.3640 | www.selfdesign.org
Traditional Learning Academy: School at Home Christian education offering online and paper-based options for kindergarten to grade 12 students.604.572.7875 | www.schoolathome.ca
20 WestCoastFamilies.com
ad. Vader. Baba. Tatay. Papa. Apu. Babbo. Tata. Abba. Babbas. Pai. Pop.However you spell it and no matter how you say it, the words all mean the same: Father.
Now that it’s June and Mother’s Day has come and gone, fathers can look forward to their special day.
The relationship between fathers and their daughters is both special and complicated.
Although mothers feel softer and are often seen as the nurturers, there’s something special about snuggling with dad. Something about the strength in his arms, the broadness of his shoulders and the sound of his voice make a girl feel safe.
However, by the time she’s ten or eleven, a young girl is likely to create physical distance between her father and herself as she embarks on her journey towards becoming a young woman and feels less comfortable with sitting on his lap, having him stroke her hair and kiss her soft cheek. The pang of rejection is often difficult for a father as he struggles to maintain the same closeness that a young girl will often reserve for her mother. This is the complicated side of being father to a daughter.
However, don’t be fooled into straying too far. Try not to take this personally by realizing that this has nothing to do with you. This is your little girl’s first step towards defining personal boundaries—with men especially. You are the very first man in your daughter’s life and how you respond to her creating this space will send a strong message about having her needs heard and respected. Try to find other ways to remain close. Settle for being able to hold her hand briefly as you cross the street. Relish the moments when she’s tired and rests her head on your shoulders.
If you show her unconditional love and acceptance, if you listen to and respect her needs, she will expect that other men in her life will too. If you show her unconditional love, she will not allow herself to become engaged in relationships with men who love her only if she looks or acts a certain way. If you
help me sara!
DBy Sara Dimerman
On Fathers and Daughters
show her respect, she will expect other boys—and eventually men—to treat her as their equals. She will choose partners who listen to what is important to her, validate her and encourage her to assert herself.
When a young girl takes time for herself, maintains hygiene and cares about her grooming, and is acknowledged for doing so—by her father, in particular—this will be very meaningful. So, when you say something like “Wow, you’ve cut your hair. I love the way it frames your beautiful face.” she will glow. When you say “You handled yourself so well in that situation. You asserted yourself without being bossy. You expressed your thoughts so clearly.” she will be thrilled that you have noticed. The way in which a young girl sees herself reflected in her father’s feedback can encourage or discourage her towards becoming a self-confident woman.
As well, the way in which a girl’s father treats her mother—whether they are living together or apart—also creates a template for the way in which she will expect to be treated. If she sees her father care for, respect and speak highly of her mother, this will not only foster even greater love towards her father, but will also provide a model for her future relationships.
Biology can help a man become a father, but it takes time, effort and careful intention to be a dad. A dad may have given you life or may have come into your life later on. The person who plays the role of dad may also be dad to your mom. He may even be mom’s brother. Being a dad is a huge responsibility, but also an awesome privilege. This Father’s Day, take a few minutes to reflect on the role you want to play in your daughter’s life and the amazing opportunity you have to shape her future. And if your daughter’s grown into a woman, spend some extra time with her on this day, too, to celebrate the many years that you’ve shared together.
Sara Dimerman, C.Psych.Assoc., provides in-office and over the phone counselling to individuals, couples and families. A parent herself, she is the author of two parenting books, Am I A Normal Parent? and Character Is the Key. Listen to advice by Sara and other experts by searching for “helpmesara” on iTunes. Find out more at www.helpmesara.com.
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21June 2011
By Michele Kambolis
avid Hawksworth is poised to unveil his much-awaited eponymous restaurant in the beautifully transformed Rosewood Georgia Hotel. Instead of his familiar chef’s jacket, Hawksworth dons dust-covered
denim, steel-toed boots and a construction hat. His keen eye manages the construction team as stealthily as his culinary teams, a level of perfectionism that transfers easily. As we talk about kids, nutrition and a passion for food, a lesser known side to this celebrated chef shines through.
I’m always curious to know who dominates the kitchen in a chef’s home. Who does the cooking in your household?
Me
You have a three-and-a-half-year-old son, Heston. How has your cooking changed since he came along and rocked your culinary world?
We’re eating much earlier. There’s less steak, more pasta and, at times, I’m making three different meals.
What is your biggest food challenge with Heston?
It has to be cooked in a way that tastes good for someone of any age to enjoy it. If you overcook food or it isn’t fresh, people won’t want it—and that includes children.
Any other challenges?
Yes, getting him off the sweets when he’s been corrupted by Grandma. We don’t have apple juice or sugar in our house, so it really affects him. Food companies have marketed really well to kids and parents. I’ll give him yogurt, which seems healthy and yet he’ll be bouncing off the walls. Then I’ll take a closer look and realize there’s a ton of sugar in it.
So many parents struggle with getting their children to eat a variety of foods. Do you have the same problem with Heston?
If your child’s hungry enough he’ll eat. We do very little snacking and are active, so Heston is hungry and more willing to try new foods. Heston eats everything, even dim sum. When he tries something new, like broccoli, we tell him it’s “Superman Broccoli” like Willie Mitchell eats. Heston loves Willie, so he’s more than happy to eat it.
Where is your favorite place to eat out with Heston in tow?
Kirin for dim sum—the Richmond location is the best.
I once read that your Mom makes Christmas cake better than anyone. What would Heston say you make better than anyone?
Macaroni and cheese with a side of Superman broccoli.
Chef Pino Posteraro, of Cioppino’s Restaurant, took a moment to weigh in on the cooking with kids question as he was about to have a culinary adventure of his own—a trip to Paris with his youngest daughter. At the age of eight, she’s already proven a worthy companion for his ambitious itinerary of bistros and three-Michelin-star restaurants. “She fell in love with Ratatouille,” Posteraro explains. “She then discovered a book that teaches children how to make everything in the movie and now she’ll eat anything—except snails.”
Two Top Chefs Weigh In on Cooking for Kids
I understand that your mother was a skilled chef. What was your favourite meal of hers?
The best meal of my life was served by my mother during a power outage. I was 14 years old and she had to cook with the preserves and salt-cured foods we had stocked in the pantry. We’d made up to 700 jars of tomatoes to make it last through the winter. The flavour was unforgettable.
You’re passionate about health and, for a time, went to medical school. How does this translate in your family’s kitchen?
I’m very against pre-packaged foods and check the ingredients very carefully. It’s not like Europe, where fast food is a panini and fresh coffee. I must admit to giving in once in awhile, but overall we cook very fresh food—from garden to table.
Having four children, you must have at least one or two finicky eaters?
My children eat everything and have a sense of adventure about food—Greek, sushi, Chinese, everything.
Your children range in age from five to 17 years. Does that pose a dinnertime challenge?
It’s hard when we’re not on the same pace. I want to compensate for the time I’m away from the restaurant, so the kids are always there for the main event. For me, cooking is a legacy to be passed to my children, so they can, in turn, cook for their own children.
I understand that your daughter is now working at the restaurant. You have a reputation for running a tight ship, so what has this been like for you both?
The staff is like family to me, so it’s natural for her to be here. We sit together with the staff and have a meal before every shift, eating collectively as a family is one of the most important things to me.
We all have trouble feeding our kids, even superstar chefs. Here, two top
Vancouver chefs share their own experiences with cooking for kids.
Chef David Hawksworth with his son Heston in the family kitchen.
health
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22 WestCoastFamilies.com
Red Canyon was living up to its name. In fact, it was the reddest rock I’d ever seen. The fiery formations that towered above us—many over twenty stories high—were otherworldly. Some of the hoodoos looked
like they were ready to topple any minute (though they’d probably keep standing for hundreds of years), and others resembled familiar characters, like Snoopy. And who can resist taking a picture of a huge, red Snoopy? It’s not exactly something you see everyday.
Such were the sights as we rode our bikes up one canyon, over a spine, and down a parallel canyon back to our car. We were doing a 20 kilometre loop trail through two canyons in the Dixie National Forest’s Red Canyon—and we were in heaven.
The specific canyons we were exploring on our bikes were the Casto and Losee. Butch Cassidy was raised not far from these canyons and many of his hideouts were located in amongst the crimson walls. With the area’s countless nooks and crannies, it’s easy to imagine Butch riding through, hiding his loot behind a hoodoo.
But Red Canyon isn’t only about red soil and rock. Though it’s hard to imagine ever tiring of the crimson architecture, this particular trail is a circle of ever-changing scenery.
The loop starts at the Casto Canyon trailhead/parking lot. Riders begin their adventure by travelling east into the mouth of the canyon. Immediately, riders are presented with unbelievable formations that take the breath away. In fact, the scenery is so interesting it’s hard to concentrate on the trail. But concentration is needed as the trail rolls up and down through numerous wet and dry river beds. Eventually the trail curves to the right and begins to climb. The soil lightens and the trail takes riders through a forest of ancient bristlecone pines. Knowing that these trees can be as much as 5,000 years old makes it an interesting place to stop for a rest.
The trail continues to climb as it prepares to crest the spine. Some areas require riders to get off and push, but most of the hill is ridable. We didn’t mind excuses to walk a bit, though—it made it easier to appreciate the stunning scenery. Just after the top, tired riders are rewarded with a view of the signposted “Little Desert”—a beautiful scene of hard white sand and twisted old trees. From there it’s just pure fun as the trail winds down through switchbacks—and then down some more—into the cool shadows of the next canyon. Losee is narrower, and slightly greener than Casto, and it contains numerous side canyons which jut off the main canyon—all beckoning to be explored. Eventually, the fun is over, though, as riders emerge from the canyon’s mouth and head back to the car.
This is a trail that will please most mountain bikers, though the difficulty rating is easy to moderate. The trail is mainly gentle, but the wash crossings demand a bit of oomph to successfully navigate. As well, the trail that descends from the spine down to Losee Canyon requires moderate proficiency to safely ride. If riders in your group are younger, and you’re unsure of how far they can go, it’s always an option just to go into the canyon a ways and return back via the same trial. This option still gives you a good taste of this fantastic bike ride.
Red Canyon is located in south central Utah, an area chock-a-block full of amazing topography. World-famous Bryce Canyon National Park is quite close to Red Canyon, as is Zion National Park, only 135 kilometres away. The Moab—perhaps the most famous mountain bike destination in Utah—is just a day’s drive away.
travel
Utah’s Red Canyon: Butch Cassidy’s Lair and a Mountain Biker’s Paradise
• This is a 20.8 kilometre trail.
• This route is ridable from April through October. Average daytime temperatures are 21˚C to 26˚C, with night temperatures around 5˚C.
• Bring lots of water—there is no drinking water along the trail.
• There is an outhouse at the trailhead/parking lot.
• Red Canyon Visitor Centre has a water tap, a restroom, and vending machines.
• The town of Panguitch, approximately 11 kilometres from the trail head, has a hospital, all visitor services, and a full-service bike shop.
• Bikes can be rented at Ruby’s Inn near the entrance to Bryce Canyon National Park. www.rubysinn.com
• An informative guide book is Mountain Biking Utah by Gregg Bromka.
• Visit the Dixie National Forest for more info. at www.forestcamping.com/dow/intermtn/dixinfo.htm
• Access: From the junction of U.S. Hwy 89 and UT 12 (seven miles south of Panguitch), travel east on UT 12 toward Bryce Canyon National Park. Turn left at Milepost 2 for Casto and Losee canyons and take the gravel road 3 miles to Casto, passing Losee after 2 miles.
Photos and text by Debbie Bowman
The close proximity of other attractions also means lots of places to stay and camp. Red Canyon has its own campground for accommodation convenient to the trailhead. And Bryce Canyon National Park, about 10 kilometres away, has a huge campground with facilities for both motor homes and tents. If camping isn’t your thing, there are several hotels at the entrance to Bryce Canyon.
Upon finishing our ride, I asked my husband how it compared to other rides he’s done throughout his life. Taking into consideration the amazing places he’s explored on his bike, I was impressed to hear him say that this was the best ride he had ever done. The fact that he was able to experience it with his whole family only made it better.
24 WestCoastFamilies.com
Great Reads for Dads, Moms and Kids!
The Art of Roughhousing: Good Old-Fashioned Horseplay and Why Every Kid Needs It by Anthony T. DeBenedet, MD & Lawrence J. Cohen, PhD These two dads explain through scientific studies and firsthand observations why creative, physical activity—what some might call roughhousing—nurtures close connections, solves behaviour problems, boosts confidence and more. $16.95
George’s Cosmic Treasure Hunt by Lucy and Stephen HawkingStephen Hawking may be the world’s preeminent physicist, but he’s also a dad. In this follow-up to George’s Secret Key to the Universe, Hawking once again collaborates with his daughter, Lucy, on this fun-filled novel that also explains scientific theories and facts about the universe in a way that middle-school children will love. $22.99
Terry Fox: A Story of Hope by Maxine TrottierCreated in cooperation with the Terry Fox Foundation and the Fox family, this is the first authorized biography of Terry Fox written specifically for young readers. First published in conjunction with the 25th anniversary of the Marathon of Hope, this edition includes eight additional pages on Terry’s legacy. Ages 7 to 11. $9.99
Canada Grills! by Barry MartinWith over 222 delicious recipes for the barbecue king in your family, this could be the perfect gift for Dad this Father’s Day! $26.95
If You’re Happy and You Know It! by Jane CabreraUse this colourful board book to sing, clap, stomp, kiss and swish your way through the popular children’s song with Monkey and all his friends. $9.95
Vancouver Kids by Lesley McKnightThis new anthology from Brindle and Glass’ Couragous K ids ser ies was released in celebration of Vancouver’s 125th anniversary this year. Vancouver Kids features true tales about remarkable kids as they experience the earliest potlatch ceremonies, arrive on the HMCS Discovery, escape the Great Vancouver Fire, ride in the first cars, explore the hidden corners of Stanley Park, and learn the secrets—and dangers—of living in a big city. With twenty-two stories told by real-life kids, Vancouver Kids is a one-of-a-kind tour of this famous city that you won’t soon forget. $12.95
Cyclist BikeList: The Book for Every Rider by Laura Robinson, illustrated by Ramon K. PerezRobinson, a former member of Canada’s national cycling team and freelance journalist, has combined fascinating bike history with useful and fun information for new and advanced riders of all ages, including tips of how to dress, what to eat and how to buy and maintain a bike. $19.99
E is for Environment by Ian James Corlett, illustrated by R.A. HoltCorlett, a Vancouver dad and author of E is for Ethics, has put together another small gem with this collection of stories that help children care for their world at home, at school and at play. $21.99
reading corner
25June 2011Photographed by Gina Spanos | AG Photography | www.ginaspanos.com
WCD Profile:
Are You a Cool Dad?
James Coleridge of Bella Gelateria
June is Bike Month!
26 WestCoastFamilies.com
What’s the lowdown on you?My wife Anna and I were engaged climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa. On our way home from our trip we stopped in New York on New Year’s Eve. We had been talking about where to get married and different places. We went into a shop which took a photo of your face and placed it on a billboard in Times Square in various global settings. When my photo came up, I was in a gondola in Venice and we decided that would be the place.
We were married September 2003. It was so romantic, so perfect, so amazing. Tradition called for the groom (me) to wait at the church for his bride and the bride would walk through the streets in her wedding gown, through the shops, through the narrow streets. It was here the start of Bella Gelateria was born. We walked through the streets, enjoying gelato and the shop keepers were constantly coming out and people walking by would yell “Bella” at my beautiful wife.
Anna and I have two children, our son Jett (two years old) and our daughter Eden (nine months old).
How did your business come about?I had been working with the climbing education program I created, Summits of Canada. I and a team of climbers would climb mountains and share the journey with school children around the world. We would use the climbing and preparation and talk about geography, science, nutrition and Canada. Just after Jett was born in 2009 I was scheduled to climb Fairweather Mountain, the highest point of British Columbia. On the climb, knowing Anna and our son were at home, I start thinking about creating a less dangerous business. Anna and I discussed our passions and we constantly reflected back to our time in Italy. During the days before the Olympics, I was in Italy going to school, doing an internship at Carpigiani’s Gelato University. Then our realtor sent me an email saying, “Our ship has come in.” There was an empty space on the corner of Burrard and Cordova, in the Fairmont Pacific Rim, which was available. After I got back, our little family signed the lease. We put our home, savings, everything on the line for what we believed in. Two months afterward we opened Bella Gelateria (www.bellagelateria.com) and the rest is history.
What are some of your biggest challenges in work? In life?The biggest challenge with our business is finding balance between business and family. As a small business built on my education and skills in making gelato, I spend between 70 and 90 hours a week, mostly standing. When Jett was born I was able to share in his upbringing, do the family cooking (yes, I am the cook in the family). It was a wonderful part of my life watching him grow, learn and shape as a little person. Now with the business in full operation, I have not been able to been there as much for Eden, Jett or Anna. I struggle with not being there to help, to share, to be a part of their lives. I know I am building a family business, but it is very hard not seeing them and helping. My challenge is always to fine more time with them. It’s not perfect, but I find at least one day a week to come home to help and be a part of their days. What I do is very physical, standing upwards of 12 hours a day. I am lucky my physical stamina and strength gives me the ability to survive and thrive in the tough environment and business we built.
What would you describe as some of the biggest rewards of your work/family?The biggest reward is knowing that I am building a family business for our children. Knowing that our success gives our family a chance to have experiences. We chose that Anna, who had a very successful corporate career, would spend the next few years raising our children, so with a single income, the reward is that our business gives Anna the opportunity to raise our children.
The other reward of my work is the passion I feel for what I do. I absolutely love watching the reaction of our customers as they taste our gelato and revisit their trips or time in Italy. They marvel at the quality, the flavour and our little family gelateria. It is truly an honour to make gelato in an old-world handcrafted style. Why would people make gelato with artificial flavours or chemicals when you can make it from scratch using fresh ingredients? The fast food industry makes it easier, cheaper and quicker, but we are about quality not quantity. As I tell people “I am a custodian of an old-world process, quickly being lost in an industrial world.” I’m proud when people who have been to Italy, as well as Italians living here, come in and tell me that our gelato is just like the best back in Italy.
Do you manage to take time-out for yourself? If so, what does that entail?Any time I get away from our gelateria, my first priority is to spend time with the family. I do not get enough, so good or bad, I do not take any personal time. Occasionally I will take a stroll while the gelato is mixing, walk down to the convention centre, look at the water, stare at the mountains and reflect on the wonderful times I have had in the mountains around the world.
Tell us one or two of the most important life lessons you have learned through being a dad/business owner.That my family depends on me to build our business and that regardless of how I feel, it’s like climbing in that I am leading a team on a journey.
As a dad, I am much more relaxed and not so stressed about being punctual. Being married and having children teaches you a whole new level of patience. I really think that being a dad, just after being married to the most marvellous person in the world, is an amazing part of my life. I am so lucky to have a wonderful wife who is a great mom to our children.
Anything else you’d like us to know about you?I was appointed as a Fellow to the Royal Canadian Geographical Society in 2009 for my work on geographic education across Canada with my Summits of Canada (www.summitsofcanada.com) program. This was a real honour.
My mom and dad have had a big influence on me as a person. My dad taught me the importance of friendship and trusting yourself in your work, and believed in me in everything I did. I can only hope to be as good of a father as my dad was with me. My mom taught me a love of art, cooking and passion. She is an incredibly beautiful person with a great personality, who is always helping people and this passion was something I learned early and often. My mom is still here with us, but my dad has passed away and I still miss him every day.
Oh, and I have three brothers, Peter, John and Robert. I am the third in the bunch.
James Coleridge of Bella Gelateria Slow Food Gelato? You bet! Bella Gelateria owner James Coleridge gives us the “scoop” on fatherhood, mountain climbing and running a sustainable business.
wcd profile
Photographed by Gina Spanos | AG Photography | www.ginaspanos.com
27June 2011
wcd feature
By Michele Kambolis
1. Jump in the pool of paternity leave. Long gone is the patronizing idea that “dads play and moms nurture.” Dads are taking their role more seriously than ever, struggling with the same work-family balance that once afflicted only women. The biggest win for dads is the jump in the number taking paternity leave—a whopping increase of three to 20 percent in the last six years. These dads aren’t taking a mere one to two weeks; they’re sharing in a full 35 weeks of changing, feeding and sleepless nights.
2. Who says Mom’s the expert? While dads are more involved at home, women are still doing the majority of scheduling and planning when it comes to kids. The latest studies show dads have taken the step towards participating and interacting more, yet still tend take a back seat when it comes to the day-to-day operational aspects of raising kids. While this may be a practical decision for some, for others it remains a stereotypical and cultural trend. Work-life initiatives have seen some gains, with men working about a half-hour less than a decade ago, while the same amount has increased for women. So, Dad, go ahead and sport that new Rag and Bone military jacket, but your drive to participate in the day-to-day parenting realities makes you the coolest yet.
3. Consistency is King. There’s a long list of reasons to be a consistent force in your child’s life. To start, it buffers your child from relationship woes with involved dads rearing children who tend to be better able to create a healthy degree of closeness and commitment in adulthood. Even better, dads who demonstrate affection and respect for Mom raise kids whose future relationships go the distance. If that’s not proof enough to convince you of dads’ influence on development, the impact on a child’s mental health just might. Dad’s presence—or rather, the lack of it—is shown to increase the likelihood of major mental health problems, while his love and attention provides a buffer.
4. Keep it cool. Dads who keep it positive and deal with difficult situations calmly raise kids who are less aggressive and have a rock solid self-esteem. What could be cooler than that? We all know that role modeling, practicing what you preach, speaks louder than words. We’re also learning that kids are watching both parents for cues in mood regulation skills, problem solving and ways to treat others. Dads figure in strongly, so remember to bite that tongue next time another driver cuts you off or young Timmy decides to draw on your latest house blueprints.
5. School rocks. Researchers in learning and development tell us children of more actively involved fathers score higher on verbal and mathematical ability, and display more sophisticated problem-solving skills. For sons, the relationship with Dad plays an even stronger role, earning them higher rates of access to post-secondary education. The school is cool message seems most compelling when it comes from Dad, so all those extra hours of kid-focused time has powerful weight when it comes to your child’s success.
6. Listen up. When dads listen and support, they raise kids who are able to cope better, take more risks and trust their own capabilities. The simple fact is, a solid attachment to Dad gives kids the security to venture out—knowing their mistakes will be met with a reassuring and caring reaction. Cool dads know that being a sounding board goes further than extending an ear. Asking questions, keeping the conversation flowing and remaining non-judgmental will keep your child coming back for more. After all, being your child’s go-to adult is the biggest achievement a parent can earn.
7. Those eyes are made for watching. You wouldn’t be the first to flush after hearing of your child’s use of a four-letter word in the school playground. Even worse is the proud explanation that “Daddy says that word all the time.” While the odd slip isn’t the end of the world, keep in mind that your habits aren’t going unnoticed. A cool dad knows that smoking, having a regular diet of junk food, yelling at other drivers, and other bad habits, just don’t cut it in front of kids.
8. No means no. Most agree that teenage entitlement is a growing concern and the failure to say “no” and stick to it is a contributing factor. Being “cool” in the eyes of our kids doesn’t mean giving them everything they want—the respect and values that come with firm boundaries create the resounding awareness that you have their best interests at the forefront.
If you’ve ever had the chance to listen in on the chatter between grade school kids,
you’d eventually hear a well-argued debate about who has the “coolest” dad. Truth
be told, most of us never really abandon the drive to be “cool”—especially in the
eyes of our kids. But, Dads are claiming their title in the coolest way of all—they’re
asserting their position as an irreplaceable and consistent force in their child’s lives.
So go ahead and bypass that new pair of Tom Ford sunglasses. With these tips, you’ll
be the coolest dad on the block.
8 Secrets of a Cool Dad
Michele Kambolis is the Clinical Director of Harbourside Counseling Centre, Vice Chair of BC Mental Health Foundation and founder of CHIKids. She can be contacted at 604.689.9116 or www.childinfo.ca for any questions about your child’s mental health and development.
28 WestCoastFamilies.com
Adult Events for the Hip Dad Around Town!
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Bike Month 2011June 1-30June is Bike Month and has grown to icon status in the years it has been operating. Every year, thousands of cyclists participate in events all through Metro Vancouver, celebrating cycling as fun, healthy, inspiring, and just a great way to get around. Experience the pleasure of cycling in the month of June, and every day of the year!www.bikemonth.best.bc.ca
Bard on the BeachVanier Park, VancouverJune 3 through September The 21st season of Bard on the Beach, one of Canada’s largest not-for-profit, professional Shakespeare festivals, features Shakespeare plays, related dramas, operas and arias, lectures, and several special events. Tickets $18.75-$35.50, or all plays for $139.www.bardonthebeach.org
Parents’ Survival Night The Little Gym, LangleyJune 10 & 24, 6pmRelax and enjoy some adult time while your children (ages three to 12) get some quality “kid time” in a safe, fun, familiar place. A team of instructors guides them through an evening of physical activities, music and fun with their gym friends or invited pals. $30 for non-members.604.539.2543 | www.thelittlegym.com
VelopaloozaVarious locationsJune 2-19Velopalooza is 18 days of bike fun. With 48 events, most organized by individuals, bikers of all persuasions are likely to find many events of interest. Nearly all events are free. Check the website for details and events!www.velopalooza.ca
Night at the AquariumVancouver Aquarium June 10, 7pm-midnightStart the event with a spot prawn extravaganza with three chefs and exclusive wines before joining the main gala. $250 per person, $2,500 per table of eight. Buy tickets online. All proceeds go to the Aquarium’s education and conservation activities.www.visitvanaqua.org
2011 Rio Tinto Alcan Dragon Boat FestivalOlympic Village June 11-12Paddlers, festival visitors, musicians, sponsors and food vendors will all be there for this free event, kicking off with the traditional blessing and eye-dotting ceremony at the dock south of Science World. Please check website for all details.www.dragonboatbc.ca
EAT! Vancouver Food & Cooking FestivalVancouver Convention Centre June 10-12Visitors will once again explore, taste, sample and shop from over 250 exhibiting companies showcasing a huge variety of food, beverage and cooking related products. www.eat-vancouver.com
Cammidge House Committee Summer Boot SaleCentennial Beach parking lot, Boundary BayJune 11 & 25, 8:30am-12:30pmThe boot sale is back again, so come find some treasures. Buyers and sellers welcome at this popular multi-car boot sale. $10 per seller site. No reservations required.604.943.0828 | 604.943.1303
Car-Free Vancouver FestivalMultiple locationsJune 19Come out and celebrate sustainable communities in Kitsilano and the West End, and on Main Street, Commercial Drive. The original festival site on Commercial Drive has live music, street hockey, revolutionary knitting circles, roller disco, a Healing Garden, and more.www.carfreevancouver.org
Enbridge Ride to Conquer CancerJune 18-19Benefitting B.C. Cancer Foundation. Support and/or join thousands of dedicated men and women who will ride over 200km to Seattle to raise funds for and awareness of the fight against cancer.www.conquercancer.ca
13th Annual Fathers Day Walk/Run for Prostate CancerJune 19, 10amBurnaby Lake Park at the Rowing Pavilion. This is a fun family event and race starts at 10am with a fun toddler race. There will be free food, entertainment and prizes. Come help raise funds towards Research, Awareness and Support for B.C. men. Registration is $35 and all proceeds go directly to help B.C. men. Register online or call.604.574.4012 | www.walktolive.ca
Bloom MarketFort Langley Community HallJune 19, 11am-5pmBloom will bring together an eclectic mix of artists, craftspeople and designers to showcase their one-of-a-kind art, fashion, accessories, jewellery, home decor, vintage, and more. Adults $2, children 12 and under are free.www.bloommarket.ca
RUSH: Race and Urban Scavenger HuntAll over Metro VancouverJune 25, 9am-4pmBenefitting the B.C. Lung Association. Think of it like an intense, one day version of TV’s Amazing Race; teams of 2 sign up to scour Metro Vancouver on foot and by public transit to complete 10 Checkpoint Challenges within a 6 hour time limit. Checkpoint Challenges will test teams’ limits both mentally and physically – while promising unforgettable moments – and loads of laughs! The team who finishes first wins an amazing trip for two around the world! For registration details, visit website.604.731.5864 | www.rushvancouver.com
Ivory Vintage Market Elgin Hall, 14250 Crescent Road, SurreyJune 25, 9am-4pmThis is a handmade, vintage and eco-friendly market run by three creative women committed and passionate about sustainable living, ethically sourced products and supporting local businesses. This market is a mix of old and new and is always aiming to be green! www.ivoryvintage.com
East Side PrideGrandview Park, VancouverJune 26, 11amOne of Vancouver Pride Society’s summer events, this neighbourhood event will have live entertainment, food vendors, and lots of community fun. This is a free event.www.vancouverpride.ca
29June 2011
Marketplace
A magical comedic fun-filled show, with one of 30 costumed characters.Performing: Singing, Dancing, Magic, Animaloons, Joking Puppets & Face
Painting. For: Parties, Holiday Celebrations & Promotional Events.
736★0876 / 729★4987www.castletopcharacters.com
Castletop Characters:Layout 1 9/5/07 7:24 PM Page 1
Children’s Kingdom Montessori Centre
Preschool & Kindergarten
Register Now! September and January Enrollment
Mandarin, Art & Music classes are included
4720 Elgin St. Vancouver (near Knight & 31st Ave.) Tel : (604) 872-8898
The Children’s Party SpecialistsFace painting, balloon animals,
arts and crafts, and more.
604-318-1261 • www.partyarts.ca
By Jared Walker
With summer vacation right around the corner, it ’s likely that we’ll start to see Vancouver’s youngsters making good use of our bike lanes and neighbourhood streets in the coming weeks. Whether buying a bike for the first time, or pulling their favourite two-wheeled toy out of the garage, it’s always important to consider safety first to avoid accidents and maximize the fun factor during the spring and summer biking season.
Below are five safety tips for preparing children for safe bike rides this summer.
Pick a Bike That Fits. Making sure the bike is properly fitted to the child is incredibly important. Have them stand over the bicycle and check to see where the crossbar of the bike reaches on the legs. There should be one to two inches of space between the child and a road bike and three to four inches of space for a mountain bike. The seat should be adjusted to a height that allows the knees to be slightly bent when at the lowest point of the pedal rotation.
Stay on Top of Bike Maintenance. Make sure the nuts and bolts on the handlebars and wheels are tight and secure. Also, inspect the chain and oil it throughout the season. Check the tires to make sure they are properly inflated. They should never be flat or low in air, or inflated to a point where they have no give at all. Brakes should also be inspected throughout the season to make sure they are working properly.
Wear a Helmet. Thousands of children are seriously injured every year in biking accidents and statistics show that a majority of these injuries would have been minimized if the child had been wearing a helmet. When you head to the store, involve the child in choosing a colourful, well-ventilated helmet. If children pick out their helmet, they may be more cooperative in wearing it. Have them fitted properly at the store before you make the purchase. Make sure the helmet straps stay adjusted properly and that the child buckles the straps every time they set out on a ride.
Be Visible. Encourage children to wear bright colours when biking. Whether riding during the day or at night, bright neon colours are the most visible. You can easily add strips of reflective tape to backpacks or jackets. In general, it is not a good idea to encourage bike riding at night. If it can’t be avoided, ensure there are ample reflectors on both the front and back of the bike and consider adding a flashing light or headlight.
Learn the Rules of the Road. Teach children the rules of the road. A bike rider is required to follow all of the same road rules that cars follow, such as stopping at all stop signs and stop lights. Cyclists should ride on the right side of the road and travel with traffic. Children should also be taught the proper hand signals so that they can signal their turning intentions to other vehicles around them.
Jared Walker is a B.C. biking expert with Opus Bikes (www.opusbike.com).
June is Bike Month!
Visit us online!
www.westcoastfamilies.com
30 WestCoastFamilies.com
Aboriginal DayFort Langley National Historic SiteJune 19 Taste salmon baked over the fire, enjoy Aboriginal dancing and music, and discover the traditions of our land. Visit the new gift shop, Šxwimelə Gifts, now managed by the Kwantlen First Nation.604.513.4777
Sunday in the ParkBoundary Bay Regional ParkJune 19, 9am-noonCome eat at the 11th annual Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast at Centennial Beach near the playground site. Enjoy live entertainment and fun with your family. Breakfast $5/adult, $2/child.www.parkpartners.ca
Old Car Sunday in the ParkJune 19, 9am-3pmFraser River Heritage Park, MissionFood, entertainment, kids’ activities and a display of over 1,000 collector and vintage cars. Entry by donation with partial proceeds going to Variety Children’s Charity. www.oldcarsunday.ca
Lovestruck Baby & Family FairCreekside Community Centre, VancouverJune 19, 11am-4pmCome to this family and baby fair right next to Science World! Balloon animals, face painting, live entertainment and more! The first 200 families receive the Lovestruck reusable tote, stuffed with goodies for the whole family! 604.551.9680 | www.lovestruckbabies.com
Delta Community Animal ExpoLadner Memorial ParkJune 26, 10am-4pmThis fun-filled family event is a great opportunity to enjoy a day in the sunshine with your family (furred and feathered included!). Support DCAS, your community animal shelter, by coming out for this free event!604.940.71www.deltacommunityanimalshelter.ca
North Delta Family DaysNorth Delta Community ParkJune 26, 11am-3pmEnjoy live performances, parade, picnic, children’s activities, displays, games and BBQ. The parade starts at Burnsview Secondary School.www.delta.bc.ca
Dog Days of SummerDerby Reach Regional ParkJune 11, 11am-3pmCelebrate barking, sniffing and wagging at this dog-focused event. Try a free mini obedience class, meet dog ambassadors, and win a prize for best-dressed hound. Allow an hour to complete all activities. Rain or shine. Meet at the main picnic shelter in Derby Reach at 21801 Allard Crescent.604.530.4983
Scales and TailsGreen Timbers Urban Fort Park Lake,SurreyJune 11, 10am-2pm (drop in) Hang out with Dad on a family fishing trip to Green Timbers Lake! Learn how to use a rod and reel, find out fun, “fishy” info, play games and make a craft. Bring your own equipment or borrow. Rain or shine. Free.604.502.6065 | www.surrey.ca
22nd Annual Teddy Bear Picnic Coquitlam Town Centre ParkJune 12, 11am-4:30pm (parade starts at10am at Coquitlam Centre Mall)Enjoy many exciting and fun-filled activities such as teddy bear playground, gymnastics, kids’ zone, bicycle safety course, fire safety house and face painting. Even young musicians can learn to make their own music. Admission is $3. Kids under three are free.www.festivalcoquitlam.citysoup.ca
Vancouver Francophone Summer FestivalVarious locationsJune 17-24Soak up the multicultural flavour of international francophones through outdoor performances in the heart of the city. Organized by the city’s Francophone Cultural Centre, there is storytelling, live music and other fun events.604.736.9806 | www.lecentreculturel.com
25th Annual Point Grey Fiesta!June 18, starts at 8amCarnival rides operate all weekend. Friday wristbands and Dads ride free on Sunday! Purchase discounted ride tickets at West 10th stores. Start the day with a pancake breakfast.604.617.0732 | www.pointgreyfiesta.org
Family Play Area Grand Opening for Father’s Day Britannia Mine MuseumJune 19, 9am-4:30pm (activities from11am-4pm)Come celebrate Father’s Day with dad and bring a picnic lunch for International Picnic Day. Play all day in the new Children’s Play Area where there will be tons of fun and safe gadgets and toys. Lots of fun games are planned for the day, plus local food!800.896.4044 | www.bcmm.ca
Fathers Day Open House 2011Historic Stewart Farm13723 Crescent Rd, SurreyJune 19, noon-4pmSee live steam-powered and large-scale trains from the Greater Vancouver Garden Railway Club on the grounds of the farm. Make a train theme craft and meet model railroad enthusiasts. Drop in, entrance by donation.604.592.6956
community calendar
Klahowya Village & Spirit Catcher TrainStanley Park, VancouverOngoing to September 11, 10am-6pm dailyStanley Park’s miniature railway plaza has been reborn as Klahowya Village and the Spirit Catcher Train. All summer long enjoy authentic Aboriginal cultural performers, carvers, artisans, storytelling, traditional cuisine and a themed miniature railroad that celebrates Aboriginal cultures from across British Columbia. See website for admission rates and train schedule.www.aboriginalbc.com
Cirque Du Soleil: DralionAbbotsford Entertainment and Sports CentreJune 2-5, various timesThe show’s name is derived from its two emblematic creatures: the dragon, symbolizing the East, and the lion, symbolizing the West. In the world of Dralion, cultures blend, man and nature are one, and balance is achieved. 604.743.5000 | www.cirquedusoleil.com
Birds Up Close Vancouver AquariumJune 4-September 5Don’t miss this unparalleled live aerial show featuring falcons, hawks, eagles and more dynamic feathered acrobats. Watch these powerful creatures as they dive and swoop above you in an incredible display of skill and agility. Explore the unique relationships between seas and sky through up close bird experiences and special educational programming throughout the galleries.604.659.3474 | www.visitvanaqua.org
Day Out with ThomasRailway Heritage Park, SquamishJune 4-5 & 11-12, eight train rides a day staring at 9:30 each day. 25 Minute Train ride with a full size Thomas the Tank Engine. Meet Sir Topham Hat, live music, write a letter to Thomas and many other Thomas activities on site. Info and ticket link on Heritage Park website.604.898.9336 | www.wcra.org
Goin’ Green Kids SwapAbbotsford Seniors Association2631 Cyril Street, AbbotsfordJune 11, 9am-1pmClothes, toys and much more! Admission $3. Kids are free! Interested in selling? Tables are $25.604.626.3588
50th Birthday CelebrationGrand Boulevard PreschoolJune 11, 10am-1pm Celebrate the preschool’s 50th birthday with a concert by Notable Kids Kindermusik and Will Stroet. Participate in free activities including face painting, cake and games. Concert tickets are $5/person; kids under two are free. Purchase tickets online or pay by cash at the door.www.gbppp.com
Vancouver EastBrainbridge Bilingual Education
Champlain Heights Community CentreEast Side Family Place
Family Passages Fertility YogaFrog Hollow Neighbourhood House
Vancouver Public Library—Britannia Branch
Vancouver WestArbutus Mall
Arts Club TheatreArts Umbrella
Dunbar Community CentreGranville Island Public Market
Kerrisdale Arena
Vancouver DowntownDenman Community Centre
Vancouver Public Library—Joe Fortes BranchLondon Drugs
RayCam Community CentreRoundhouse Community Centre
Sinclair Shopping CentreStrathcona Community Centre
North ShoreKaren Magnussen Ice Rink
Gleneagles Community CentreLonsdale Quay
North Shore Neighbourhood HouseWest Vancouver Family Place
West Vancouver Memorial Public Library
RichmondBlundell Elementary School
McDonald’sMinoru Aquatic Centre
Pinky Blue Children’s StoreRichmond Family Place
Shopper’s Drug Mart
Coquitlam/ Poco/ Port MoodyBig Foot 8 Kids
Chimo Pool & Social Recreation CentreKoko’s Activity Centre
Port Moody Public LibraryTri-City Family Place
Burnaby/New WestminsterBonsor Community Centre
Burnaby Family PlaceEdmond Elementary School
Hilton HotelNew Westminster Public Library
New Westminster QuayRoyal Columbian Hospital
Surrey/ Delta/LangleyAldergrove MallBuckets of Fun
Fleetwood Community CentreLadner Community Centre
Love Those Loot BagsNewton Wave Pool
Pinewood Elementary SchoolWalnut Grove Community Centre
Winskill Aquatic Centre
Abbotsford/Maple Ridge/Pitt MeadowsFitness Unlimited
Fraser Valley Regional Public LibraryMaple Ridge Childcare ResourceVancouver International School
Zellers
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