Edmonton`s Child Magazine

Transcription

WWW.EDMONTONSCHILD.COM
JULY / AUGUST 2010
The
SUMMER
FUN
Issue
Party Time!
• Simple Tips
for Healthier Food
Family Matters
• How to Support Your Kids
During Separation or Divorce
Summertime Boredom
Busters
The
Airb Last
end
er:
M.
K
nig
S
hya
ht
m
Inte alan
rvie
w
summer & fall birthday parties
EC
CHANGINGTHEWORLD:
ONE PARTY AT A TIME!
By: Isaac Wurmann
C
hange can happen in many different ways. Change
can come in the form of one person, in the form of a
few people, in the form of a group or an organization.
The only thing that you need to create change is to have
someone (or in many cases more than one) who is willing to
participate and advocate for this change. So of course change
can also come in the form of a birthday party. I turned
thirteen last September, and I wanted to celebrate my
becoming a teenager by creating change.
I have been involved in creating change for quite some
time now. When I was younger, I remember participating in
protests with my mother. Even as a five or six year old I liked
the idea that I was creating change just by responding with
the word “peace!” whenever the guy with the bullhorn would
ask what we wanted. I think that the first time that I tried
creating change by myself was when I was in grade 5. For
Earth Day, I organized a group of people to raise money to
plant trees in our schoolyard. The following year, my friend
and I organized what we called the “World Vision
Committee.” Together we set a goal of raising $4000 by the
end of the year. We organized events like a bookmark and
card sale, a huge garage sale, and we did a presentation about
malnutrition in Africa. By the end of grade six, our
committee had raised $6000, exceeding our goal. With this
money, we were able to buy things like: a portion of a well, a
stable full of animals and a dairy cow, all for families and
communities in need.
Edmonton’s Child Magazine would like to thank Heather
Wagner Photography for providing the delightful cover shot
for our July/August issue. Her ongoing support, expertise and
amazing talent brings freshness to our magazine!
Heather Wagner Photography offers a fresh, simple and
modern approach to newborn photography.
To learn more, please visit:
www.heatherwagnerphotography.com
The next year, while I still participated in community
activities to raise awareness of things like climate change and
world poverty, it was nothing like the fundraising that I had
done the year before. That is, until my thirteenth birthday. I
had heard of Free the Children many times, and was hoping
to go on some of the trips that they coordinate to help out in
countries like Ecuador, China, and Kenya. But I had never
actually been involved in an event with the organization.
While planning my thirteenth birthday, I decided that I did
not need any more presents, that I did not need anymore
“things.” I wanted to give a present to someone else who
really needed it, and that’s where Free the Children’s
Celebrate for Change campaign comes in. This campaign
encourages you to ask for money instead of presents that you
can donate to Free the Children. The money then goes to
children around the world who are “invisible”, and who
don’t have a birthday. There are 50 million children born
every year whose births aren’t recorded, and because of this
lack of record, many times these children end up in
dangerous situations such as child labour.
“I think incorporating a fundraising event makes your
birthday all the more meaningful, especially at the age that
you become a teenager, an age group that people seem to
categorize as wild and apathetic.”
Isaac is still active in his community, volunteering at places
like Boyle Street and participating in smaller fundraising events.
To learn more about him and what he’s up to, visit his blog at
www.istw.blogspot.com.
EC
es,
Wyland Guppy Goggl
Mask and Snorkels
For my Celebrate for Change party, I invited about
twenty people. I invited a wide range of people that I knew.
Some people were from my swim club, some were from my
school, and some were from my old school. We first went to
a nearby pool for an hour, and then came back to my house
to have food and hang out. To decorate for the party, I hung
maps of south-east Asia, Africa, and South America, pinpointing all the places where Free the Children works. On
the side of my garage I also put up some pieces of poster board
and I encouraged my friends to write birthday messages to
the “invisible” children. On one poster board someone had
written: “Happy birthday ‘invisible’ children, you are not
forgotten!” with handprints decorating the message. On
another one everyone had written their names with messages
of support. Before my party I had decided that my goal was to
raise $500. I was pleasantly surprised at how generous people
were, some people even gave as much as fifty dollars! By the
end of the night, after the last money had come in, we had
raised $550, exceeding my goal! It was so great to see a group
of teenagers come together to create change, in the form of a
birthday party, and have a lot of fun while doing it! My friend
Lily had this to say about the party:
r the sea and explore
Your child can go unde
ed Guppy Goggles and
with these ocean inspir
and Snorkel sets. These
Explorer and Elite Mask
kel sets boast superiorgoggles, masks and snor
gonomic design and
quality materials, an er
youth and adults. The
comes in sizes for both
www.FINISINC.com.
goggles are available at
Est. 1987
A music program for the whole family!
Come and join us for a music-filled morning
with your child! (Ages 6 m - 5 yrs)
•
•
•
•
Instrumental exploration
Songs & Finger plays
Craft, Play & Story Time
Rhythm & Movement
For registration and more information
please visit our website at
www.edmontonpreschoolmusic.com
contact Joy at 780-467-0395.
2 • Join us on Facebook and Twitter!
Montessori Preschool Programs For Ages 2-5
University Educated Montessori Teachers
We are one of the few well-rounded programs that provide
children with academic, emotional and social benefit!
All inquiries are welcome via email to:
[email protected] or [email protected]
Please call (780) 487-6419
www.westendmontessori.org
EC
with an Under-the-Sea Party
By: Penny Warner
E
ven if you can’t travel to a tropical locale, a little
creativity can make your party unforgettable. Try these
tips for creating an Under-the-Sea adventure complete
with bubbles, sea shells and lots of colorful fish.
Use sea shells from a past vacation (or pick up some
plastic shells at a craft store) to anchor each balloon to
the ground. Try to place them at varying heights to
achieve the feel of real bubbles.
To create the atmosphere of bubbles and water, pick up
latex balloons in varying shades of blue – think
everything from aqua to royal blue, like a real ocean – and
find some curling ribbon to match.
To add some fish to the party, select latex balloons in
bright colors that contrast the blue bubbles and water.
Yellow, orange and pink will really stand out. Use stickers
to create eyes, a mouth and a dorsal fin for each fish.
Inflate the balloons with helium so they float around the
room to create your underwater setting.
Finish out each fish’s fins by using crepe paper for the tail
and pectoral fins. Check out some pictures of fish on the
Internet or in your favorite movie to get an idea of the
shape of the fins. Be sure to use elements that are as
lightweight as possible so the accessories don’t weigh
down the fish and prevent them from floating.
shell so it floats horizontally instead of vertically. Scatter
the fish balloons throughout the room and enjoy!
Once you’ve created the underwater atmosphere, get your
child and the party guests in some swim gear complete with
snorkel, mask and flippers and start the adventure.
Penny Warner has more than 25 years of experience as an
author and party planner. She has published more than 50 books,
including 16 specific to parties, and works with Balloon Time –
the leading brand of consumer helium balloon kits in North
America.Check out her latest book, How to Host a Killer Party
from NAL/Penguin. Balloon Time kits feature a helium-filled
tank, latex or foil balloons and ribbon, and are available at
national retail chains, party goods and grocery stores nationwide.
For more information, visit www.balloontime.com
Finally, tie curling ribbon to the tail of the fish (where the
knot is) and pull the ribbon to the underside of the fish.
Tape the ribbon to the fish belly and anchor it with a sea
EC
For some delightful dress-up party ideas, visit
www.edmontonschild.com
musical games * glockenspiels * drums * bonding * scarves * hoola hoops
Within every child is the language
of music. And for your child, there
is no greater pleasure than when
you join in their play. Musikgarten
is the key that opens the door to
your child's unique world.
tiful
You Are Sooooo Beau
a precious and timeless
by Leanne Power holds
ages.Share it with your
message for readers of all
e foundation for their
children to help set th
beauty. And let it help
understanding of true
autiful adults in your
you—and the other be
ur inner child and set
life—reconnect with yo
more information, visit
your beauty free. For
iful.com.
www.youaresooooobeaut
Image School of Music & Dance
#101,4807-44 ave Stony Plain
www.StonyPlainMusicandDance.com
780-963-0030
Great Beginning School of Music
#2, 205 Chatelain Drive, St. Albert
www.gbmusikgarten.com
780-458-9059
Heathers Musical Garden
South & Central Edmonton
www.heathersmusicalgarden.com
780-439-7475
jingles * bean bags * finger cymbals * singing * dancing * bouncing songs
www.EdmontonsChild.com • 3
COOL OFF
contents
EC
Cover Stories
Cover
Stories
Features
Features
• Party Time! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
8
Getting Down to Business
15
la section francophone
23
creaturesall
SUMMER FUN ISSUE
• How to Support Your Kids During
Separation and Divorce. . . . . . . 13
Sections
Sections
18
Letter from the Editor
• Summertime Boredom Busters. . 28
• The Last Airbender Interview
with M. Knight Shyamalan . . . . 29
EDUCATION
Summer & Fall Birthday Parties:
FAMILY MATTERS
16
An Afternoon with the ESO
2
Changing the World
9
Chronicles of a New Dad
22
Busting Myths
3
Under the Sea Party
12
Enjoy a Relaxing Summer
25
Greenwoods’Bookshoppe Picks
7
AD-vantageous
14
Brotherly Love
COMMUNITY
Summer Fun:
11
Calendar of Events
30
Tips for Travel with Kids
20
Classes & Support
32
Simple Decisions
26
Family Resources
33
Vacation without ADHD Meds?
35
Help is Just a Phone Call Away
34
Be Water Smart
Our Supporters
Edmonton’s Child is proud to have strategic
alliances with the following organizations:
About Us
Our Contributors
PUBLISHER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wendy Hamelin
Isaac Wurmann
Tres Bore
EDITOR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kerri Leland
Michelle Latinksy
Elizabeth Dowson
LOCAL ADVERTISING SALES
Terry Scherf
Beth Engleman
Christy Cooke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780.756.8106
Gil Jouan
Melanie Risdon-Betcher
Monita Chapman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780.478.1855
Natalie Boutin
Caroline Barlott
Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780.484.3360
Dr.Tamara Hanoski
Kristina Rikunova
Volunteer Edmonton
Erin McCarty
DESIGN/LAYOUT/ADVERTISING DESIGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ardis Baldwin/Allykat Graphics
Karen Probert
PRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gryphon Publishing Inc.
PRINTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Transcontinental Printing
OUR COMMITMENT
Edmonton’s Child is funded and published solely through the support of our advertisers
and sponsors.They support us;please support them.With the support of our advertisers,
Edmonton’s Child is committed to sponsoring and supporting a variety of organizations
that help families in Edmonton.
If you would like information on advertising rates,or if you have some feedback,story ideas or
information for our calendar of events,we would like to hear from you.
Edmonton’s Child is published six times per year.You can find us at 200 locations throughout Edmonton and surrounding areas.Subscriptions are available at $15 per year.
The opinions expressed in this publication may not necessarily be those of the
publisher.No part of this publication may be reprinted without the express written
permission of the publisher.Edmonton’s Child is not responsible for unsolicited materials.
REACH US AT
Edmonton’s Child
Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780.484.3360
Email. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.EdmontonsChild.com
Mailing Address:
Suite 369, 9768 - 170 St. , Edmonton, AB.,T5T 5L4
RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESS TO EDMONTON’S CHILD
Suite 369, 9768 - 170 St. , Edmonton, AB.,T5T 5L4
EMAIL: [email protected]
OUR DATABASE IS CONFIDENTIAL. WE DO NOT SELL, LEND OR SHARE OUR
INFORMATION TO THIRD PARTIES. INTERNAL USE ONLY.
Distribution
Edmonton’s Child Publication is
available at a variety of
locations in Edmonton and
surrounding areas including
many elementary schools in the
public and Catholic school
systems, public libraries, Capital
Health centres, Family and
Community Service centres,
local businesses and in a variety
of stands including Safeway,
Sobey’s and IGA. Please go to
EdmontonsChild.com for more
detailed information.
COVER IMAGE
Chloe
Photo by Heather Wagner
Photography
NEXT ISSUE: September/October 2010:
Back to School; Fall Classes and Programs.
Deadline for ad space is August 2, 2010.
Distribution is schedule to being on
August 18, 2010.
EC
EDMONTON
Luke Lavorato
780-850-2511
•
[email protected]
Sportball is a non-competitive
sports program for children
16 mos - 8 years old. Children are
introduced to 7 popular sports: soccer,
hockey, basketball, baseball, volleyball, tennis and golf. Sportball classes
are high-energy, fun and creative.
EC
Party Time!
Simple tips for serving healthier food at children’s birthday parties
By: Michelle Latinsky, RD
A
s a parent, you probably understand the importance
of teaching your children about the difference
between healthy snacks and those which are
occasional treats only. Yet foods traditionally served at kids’
birthday parties such as cake, ice cream, chips and pizza tend
to be high in fat and sugar. If you are planning a birthday
party for your child, read on for five kid-friendly ways to
make the celebration healthy and fun.
Fun with fruit
Many fruits are now in season, making summer the perfect
time to serve these fresh, juicy treats to kids in place of potato
chips and candies. Even picky eaters can be enticed into
trying some fruits, especially when they are cut into different
shapes or served in a creative, visually-appealing way.
Kids will love making and eating their own fruit kabobs.
Slide slices of melon, grapes, strawberries and blueberries
onto wooden skewers and dip in vanilla yogurt.
Alternatively, immerse the tip of whole strawberries into
melted chocolate and refrigerate before serving to allow the
chocolate to harden. You can also drizzle stripes of melted
milk and white chocolate over a plate of freshly cut fruit.
Serve it from an empty watermelon “bowl” for a greater wow
factor with the kids.
Subs for a summer day
Burgers, hot dogs and pizza have become a staple at
children’s birthday parties, but these foods tend to be high in
saturated fat and sodium. As a healthier alternative, try
make-your-own submarine sandwiches. Children can build
their own sandwiches on whole grain bread or sandwich buns
with toppings that include lean meats such as roast turkey or
roast beef, low fat cheese, lots of vegetables and mustard
instead of mayonnaise. Serve with kid-friendly vegetables
such as baby carrots, cucumber slices, halved cherry tomatoes
and low fat ranch dressing. Then set up blankets outside so
the kids can enjoy having a “picnic” while eating their subs
together.
Hot days, cool drinks
Lots of summer birthday parties means your kids are
probably drinking too much pop. As a healthier alternative,
serve them frozen slushies, made by blending ice with peeled,
chopped fruit such as strawberries or mangoes. For a creamier
treat, fruit smoothies can be made using a blend of low fat
milk, ice and frozen fruit – little girls will love pink
strawberry smoothies, while boys may prefer chocolatebanana ones. Homemade iced tea and lemonade are also
refreshing options, especially for adults at the party who are
looking to beat the summer heat.
A New Spin on Birthday Cake
It wouldn’t be a proper party without a birthday cake, but
there are plenty of healthier ways to serve one. Mini
cupcakes are a modern twist on a celebratory cake, and the
smaller portion size will help cut back on the calories and
sugar kids are consuming. You can also bake a zucchini or
carrot cake rather than the traditional white or chocolate
cake. Use half the amount of oil called for in a recipe and
substitute the other half with applesauce, and replace half of
the amount of white flour with whole wheat flour.
For a cool treat on warm summer days, make or buy a low
fat frozen yogurt cake topped with fresh berries. Kids may
also enjoy making their own sundaes, using frozen yogurt or
sorbet in place of ice cream. Serve a variety of healthy
toppings such as berries, sliced bananas and raisins, and
drizzle with a small amount of honey.
Captain Jack would love to come to any party.
Just call my agent, Michele at 780-235-1189
and she will book me for your party. I talk and
you can get your picture taken with me.
Come see why we’re the global leader in classes for kids.
FREE Class on us!*
Simply bring in this offer. For ages 0 to 5 years.
Art
(Ages 18 mos.– 5 yrs.)
Inspire creativity
in visual and
interactive arts.
You can
sses
start cla
e
im
anyt
Music
(Ages 6 mos.– 5
yrs.) Explore music
through play,
activity and song.
Gymboree Play & Music
of Edmonton South
3663-99 St
780.47.gymbo (474.9626)
Gymboree Play & Music
of Edmonton North
13533 St. Albert Trail
780.474.9620
Play & Learn
gymboreeclasses.com
(Ages 0– 5 yrs.)
Nurture confidence,
curiosity and
physical skills.
www.gymboreeclasses.com
*Offer valid for
new families
only at
participating
Play & Music
locations.
Existing Play &
Music customers
are not eligible.
Offer is not
redeemable for
cash or credit.
Gymboree Play
& Music may
change or
cancel this
promotion at
any time in
Gymboree Play
& Music’s sole
discretion.
Void where
prohibited
by law.
Get moving
Aside from making healthier foods available at a birthday
party, it’s also a good idea to keep kids active. In addition to
burning some calories, this is great way to get children to
interact with each other in a safe environment. There are
endless options available, and you could even make a
birthday “theme” out of the activity. Try a Hawaiian luau
dance party or an Olympic party featuring games such as a
bean bag toss, obstacle course or hula hoop contest. Old
favourites like bowling, mini-golf or a game of T-ball will also
keep kids moving while ensuring they have fun.
Michelle Latinsky is a Registered Dietitian and a member of
the Dietitians of Canada. She is currently the Manager of
Nutrition Education for Jamieson Laboratories, where she helps
to educate the public about natural supplements and their
therapeutic use. Michelle holds a Bachelor of Applied Science
degree in Food and Nutrition from Ryerson University.
EC
Want some tips for encouraging your kids to make
healthy food choices more often? Don’t miss “Please
Pass the Veggies” at www.edmontonschild.com.
EC
E
dmonton’s Child Magazine had a chance to
chat with Luke Lavarato, director and head
coach of Sportball Edmonton. Keep
reading to find out more about this unique
program, and get the low down on their great
birthday parties!
EC: Luke, can you tell us a bit about Sportball ~ where
the idea came from, why it’s such a unique and valuable
program?
LL: Great question. Sportball originated in Toronto with
a married couple named Carmella and Mark Gelgor. The two
started the company 15 years ago and have grown it into one
of the largest sports programs across Canada. Mark and
Carmella developed the program because the realized there
was a huge need in society for high quality children’s
programming. Their ultimate goal was to get kids active and
excited about physical activity by any means necessary. They
realized that some of the major things that held kids back
from participating in sports at an early age were: fear of
competition, finding it difficult to pick the sport they liked,
lack of a structured atmosphere , and of course lackluster and
unenthused coaching. Hence Sportball was created! A high
energy, structured, multi sport program that introduces kids
to 8 different sports in a non competitive stress free
environment, the program’s uniqueness roots from our
coaches. We hire the best of the best and we push them very
hard to be as good as they are. Another couple of aspects that
sets us apart are the non competitive atmosphere and the
the birthday activities such as opening presents (my coaches
will usually be tempted to steel some of the presents since
they are big kids themselves but don’t worry they have
resisted temptation so far), serving cake and ice cream,
singing Happy Birthday and of course clean up.
EC: Give us a glimpse of what the Sportball kids learn
and the kind of activities they do.
EC: What kind of feedback do you get from the kids who
have been at one of these parties?
LL: Every week we introduce the kids to a different sport.
We play soccer, hockey, golf, basketball, baseball, volleyball,
football and tennis within one semester. Now each age group
is different, but for the most part we take the kids through a
warm up that is designed to teach them how to warm up their
muscles properly and to help them get over any anxiety they
may have. After that we dive into our sport of the week
where we teach them a basic skill in a unique and crazy way
(Marty the Moose is always quite a hit with the kids) and
then progress them through that skill so that they learn how
to do it properly. After doing two or three skills with the
class, we play a fun Sportball game (Shrek and Star Wars are
my two favorites) and then finish off with a review of class
and a rousing Sportball cheer.
LL: Kids feel like superstars after one of our parties and
that’s the most important part. They are excited about life
and at the same time ready for a nap. We probably get two to
three emails a week from parents letting us know that our
coaches did a great job and that their kid had a blast! My
administrative assistant Nicole Bondy handles all my
Birthday bookings and her phone rings 24/7 with birthday
requests.
EC: How do you transform a Sportball class into a
Sportball birthday party?
EC: What was the best birthday party you had when
growing up?
Wow, I would have to say that my favorite party was
when my parents took me to see Lord of the Dance for my
birthday….I know it’s weird but for some reason I loved that
production. That Michael Flatly has got some pretty fast feet.
To learn more about Sportball, visit www.sportball.ca.
LL: Our birthday parties are an absolute blast! They last
for two hours and are non-stop. For the first hour we take the
kids through some Sportball fun and mayhem with the
birthday kid as the centre of attention. The birthday girl of
boy lets us know that two sports they want to play ahead of
time and a theme (Star Wars, Ben Ten, Tinkerbell….
whatever they want) and we create a lesson plan from that
information. The coaches start off the party by introducing
themselves, telling some jokes, making the birthday child
their special helper and of course getting the kids excited to
play some games. After the hour is up and the kids are both
excited and starving for some food we help with the rest of
EC
* Airbrush Face Painting *
* Balloon Artist *
* Comedy, Magic Shows *
Tel 866-454-0998 • Email [email protected]
Website www.infavour.ca
Grammas’
Toy Shop
Reconditioned Childrens Toys
4451 - 99 st., Edmonton
Call: 780.435.7495
or Email: [email protected]
Cleaned, sanitized... ready for play!
Cell: 780-975-8232
Email: [email protected]
Website: gigiandfriends.ca
ECM-1/09
Specializing
in premium
quality
candy-free
loot bags
and party
supplies to
make planning
your next
event a piece
of cake!
multi sport aspect. These two features really allow kids to just
have fun and get a great first experience in physical activity.
And of course, we are always extremely positive with kids.
We always want to build them up and give them the
confidence they need to succeed in sports and life.
Celebrate your Birthday party with Clay for Kids
• We come to you!
fun projects
own creation
• Choose from lots of
• Make your very
Lots of fun
clay projects
Finished projects
returned in 21 days
We supply
clay, paint
& brushes
No mess
no fuss
You only bring
the cake
Fantastic
instructors
Ph: 780.487.2874
Web: www.clayforkidsedmonton.com
AD-vantageous...
Featuring Sportball!
EC
family matters
GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS
With Carol McBee
E
dmonton’s Child had the exciting opportunity to chat
with Carol McBee, Founder and President of Mommy
Connections and Bossy Mama. Read on to learn more
about becoming a successful momprenuer, from someone
who really knows what she’s talking about!
EC: Take us back to the time when you realized that
being an entrepreneur was something you wanted do be.
CM: I think it started way back when I was little….
Whether it was braiding hair or delivering firewood while
camping during summer holidays or running around in the
rain returning shopping carts for $0.25 with my Dad while
my Mom got groceries. I have always loved creating an idea,
marketing it and then making some money for my efforts.
EC: Do you feel there certain characteristics that people
are born with, or that are developed within a person, that
makes them a good fit for entrepreneurship?
CM: Well, I am very frugal, so I think being business
minded often goes hand in hand with that. I am proud to tell
my husband how much each serving of our supper costs as we
are sitting down to eat, and I am equally proud when I have
successfully written an article, done my own taxes & book
keeping, created a web site from scratch or designed an
advertisement. These are all things that I always knew I
could do, but when you are working for someone else, your
creativity and talent is sometimes lost. Having an
entrepreneurial spirit requires the ability to learn and adapt,
take chances and be courageous as well as have an
unwaivering work ethic. If you don’t like hard-work, you
would be hard pressed to enjoy being your own boss!
EC: Tell us about some of your struggles on the road to
becoming a successful entrepreneur.
CM: Where do I begin? There is never enough time or
money in the beginning. You have so much to do when you
are a one woman business. There are also a lot of expenses
and very little money coming in when you are just starting
out, so that can be frustrating. Like the old adage goes, you
often have to spend money to make money; which I have
found to often be true when it comes to portraying your
business in a professional manner.
I am still struggling with the fact that I cannot do it all
and am having to get other people involved to help me.
There comes a point when many entrepreneurs start to miss
out on opportunities because they simply cannot be
everywhere or all things to all people at once! I am just
starting to hire out certain tasks, and I find it very
challenging. I like to have total control about every aspect
of the business and need to realize that often by bringing in
someone you not only have time to dedicate to other
important matters, but you also get a fresh set of eyes on
every project and they can often do things different (and
maybe better!) than I can. Hard to admit, but so true. It is
an amazing feeling to finally reach a point where you can add
new talent and inspiration to your team!
EC: When you became Mom to your beautiful daughter,
how did your vision and role as an entrepreneur switch to
that of a mompreneur? Aside from the obvious, what are the
differences between the two?
CM: Well, I have been an entrepreneur from a very
young age and even as an adult. Pre-marriage and pre-baby,
I started a business that assists realtors in marketing their
homes through virtual tours and photographs. I enjoyed
running the business, and having that additional stream of
income even after returning to a full time position for
another company. But, it wasn’t until after having my
daughter and being on maternity leave that I came up with
my two companies.
I hear it all the time from entrepreneurial women that
belong to my business network. They are on maternity
leave, cannot imagine leaving their baby and then BANG!
They come up with an innovation, product or service.
People often ask me how come so many of my members in
Bossy Mama have baby/child/maternity related businesses.
Well, when you have a baby on the brain, you often have
baby “aha” moments! I can definitely say for myself that I
have passion now that I am a mompreneur, whereas, I was
just a business owner with an idea before. You start to get
really creative when you are desperate not to return to your
regular 9-5 job and I think that is when passion flows that
great ideas are created. I LOVE what I do. It’s not just a job
– it’s something amazing that I created after having my
daughter, for my daughter.
EC: What are some of the challenges of being a
mompreneur? What are some of the lessons that you’ve
learned along the way?
CM: I would say my biggest challenge is child care. The
whole reason I decided to create these two businesses was
because I wanted to stay at home with my daughter. So, the
decision to bring someone in two mornings a week from now
until the end of the summer was a really tough one for me. I
knew I didn’t want to try and work during the hours that my
daughter wasn’t napping and make her have to play around
me. Hiring someone was a good decision for me. It has
alleviated my stress levels of not getting enough done during
the week and now the other three days a week we can plan
play dates and outings, and I don’t feel as though I am
missing my precious work time.
EC: Can you please share with us one piece of advice for
the mom reading this who would love to become a
mompreneur?
CM: Everything takes times – slow down and do it right.
I am constantly thinking 5 years down the road and then
quickly following that up with my incredibly long to do list,
to call list, to figure out list…. Rome wasn’t built in one day,
and neither is a mompreneurs business. We are usually the
only staff member, so just juggling all the day to day work
tasks of a start up can quickly become overwhelming. Not to
mention, the fact that you a mompreneur, and not just an
entrepreneur is a whole other situation. You also have to
wipe faces, do laundry, chauffeur children, cook dinner AND
run a successful business! Everything takes time, and with
time you can grow a successful business.
If you are planning on becoming a mompreneur, I would
HIGHLY recommend joining a network, logging onto
mompreneur websites, subscribing to newsletters and
magazines (MOMpreneur is an awesome Canadian magazine
resource!) or checking out Alberta Women Entrepreneurs.
All of them can connect you with amazing support networks
to help you grow your business.
To learn more about what Carol does, or to become involved,
visit www.bossymama.ca or www.mommyconnections.ca.
EC
At your next birthday party, picnic, carnival or charitable event
plan a never-to-be-forgotten adventure for the young and young at heart!
Disney Princess, Tinkerbell, Finding
ndi
din
ing Nemo,
o Giraffe,
iiraffe, Sp
Spidey,
idey
ey,
y, Obstacle Co
Courses,
ourrses, JJoust,
oust, Sumo SSuits, Slides and So Much More!
Call (780) 485-87344
of Edmonton Ltd.
w
www.astrojump.org
w
By: Terry Scherf
NEW {
Dad
W
hen our first child was born, it was a quick process
from start to finish - beginning with the trip to
the hospital to the baby being born. It wasn’t one
of those stories you hear about involving more than 20 hours
of labour or walking the halls for days trying to get things
moving. Within 45 minutes it was: “Welcome to the
hospital…hey this baby is coming…to here’s your child.” So
I really didn’t have any time before hand to get nervous or
anxious.
For me, the nerves and anxiety took over when I saw that
we were blessed with a little girl. Instantly I remember
thinking “I am a father to a little girl…I am a father…to a
LITTLE GIRL…!” I have always loved kids but when it
came time to play ‘pass the baby’ at social gatherings I usually
put my hands in my pockets or disappeared like I was never
there. When I was younger, me holding a baby was cause for
celebration and for cameras to come out of every purse and
pocket. There aren’t a lot of pictures with me and a baby.
Dealing with someone else’s baby was stressful enough. I
had no clue how to deal with a baby girl… my baby girl.
You see, before I was a dad, I was an uncle, and while I did
have both nieces and nephews, I was certainly more of an
active participant in raising the little boys in my life.
family matters
Chronicles of a
EC
Pink Cowboy Hats,
Tasteless Tea and
Shots to the Groin
Little boys are tough and when they’re three months old
you can wrestle with them and take them sky-diving and
hunting and teach them how to burp the alphabet.
Little boys I understood. We’re the same, we like cars,
mud and shiny things.
Little girls, not so much. They’re soft, wear pink frills and
need their hair brushed every night 1000 strokes with a brush
made from the exotic hair of a Burmese Mountain Sheep.
Little boys understood ‘No’ and the louder you said it the
more serious you were.
You can’t raise your voice to a little girl, they’ll cry and
then you’ll feel horrible for making a little girl cry…your
little girl. How can I play catch with a little girl? All she’ll
want to do is play with Barbie and have tea parties and make
me wear silly hats while I brush her hair with this goat brush
thingy.
Well, it’s been just over two and a half years since our first
daughter was born and I’ve certainly learned a few things in
that time. One is that when baby is sick and mom thinks she
needs to sleep in our bed, one of us usually ends up on the
couch…and it isn’t mom.
You can definitely play catch with your little girl but you
better be paying attention or someone is getting a bloody
nose…and it isn’t the little girl. When they run down the
hall to give you a hug, brace yourself and protect yourself
because after they drill you in the groin and you need to ‘take
a knee’, they don’t get it and they think it’s time to jump on
Daddy’s back.
We’re not at the Barbie stage yet but I’ve lost count of
how many times I’ve looked like a dork wearing my
daughters pink cowboy hat as I sit on a little chair at a little
table and drink imaginary tea from a pink frilly cup. The tea
is a little bland but the company definitely makes up for it.
I better stay sharp and remember my little table manners
because our 2nd daughter is just about eight months old and
I’m going to be doing this for a while.
I’m going to need another little chair…
Terry Scherf is an almost 40 year old family man who could
have been a 40 year old bachelor had he not met a wonderful
woman. They have two little girls: one who is two and a half and
one who is 10 months; together they live in Edmonton. He has
been satirically writing for the entertainment of his friends and
family for years about sports, politics and relatives. We at ECM
are delighted to share his stories of his new passion...his daughters,
and look forward to your feedback.
EC
Calendar of Events
Ongoing
July Ongoing
family matters
EC
Mommy Connections. Operating in 4 communities in
Edmonton, plus Sherwood Park & Leduc, Mommy Connections is
a 6 week post-natal program and new moms social network.
The program is designed to educate, inform and connect new
moms in their communities on the topics of post-natal fitness &
nutrition, baby dental concerns, literacy, City programs, infant
safety, baby wearing, diapering, hip clubs and classes for mom &
baby, returning to work and more! For more information, visit
www.mommyconnections.ca.
Movies for Mommies, the original parent & baby film event.
Enjoy movies in a baby-friendly cinema, as we welcome moms,
dads, grandparents and caregivers. Movies are shown every
Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. at the Magic Lantern Parkland 7 theatre.
For more information, visit www.moviesformommies.com.
July
Sundays at the John Walter Museum. Join them on Sunday
afternoons for a special activity. This is free, however donations
are gratefully accepted. For more information on the activity, call
780-486-8787.
June 29 – July 25: Come celebrate the Free Will Players’ 22nd
season of Freewill Shakespeare in the Heritage
Amphitheatre at Hawrelak Park! This year we’re presenting
two old favourites: the tragic turn of Macbeth and his ambitions,
and the silly yet sordid antics of lovers and haters in Much Ado
About Nothing. Mother Nature has already reserved her seat for
our spectacular outdoor performances. For more information,
visit www.freewillshakespeare.com.
June 30 - July 1: Spruce Grove’s Canada Day and Street
Performers Festival! The Festival spans two days, starting June
30 with The Servus Credit Union Community BBQ, the Street
Performers Vaudeville Variety Show and roving performers. On
Canada Day, July 1, lots of hungry people enjoy a $3 pancake
breakfast, while numerous children “strut their stuff” in our
Canada Day People Parade. Visit www.sprucegrove.org/celebrate
for more information about the festival.
July 1: Edmonton’s Canada Day Celebrations! Celebrate
Canada, mammoth celebration of Canada’s birthday includes
everything from a pancake breakfast, road race and whimsical
parade to a stunning artificial waterfall on the High Level Bridge
and thunderous fireworks display. For more information, visit
www.edmontoncelebratecanada.ca.
July 1: Fort Saskatchewan’s Canada Day Celebrations! Gather
your family and friends and dress in your snazziest red and
white clothes. Get set to celebrate the city’s main summer event,
Canada Day, Fort Saskatchewan style – in an all-encompassing,
old fashioned community celebration. For the day’s events, visit
www.fortsask.ca or call 780-992-6261.
July 1: St. Albert’s Canada Day Celebrations! Lions Park
remains the primary location, with an estimated 5000-6000 in
attendance throughout the event. From 11:00 am – 2:00 pm,
participants enjoy a variety of fun hands-on activities, horse &
wagon rides, and entertainment in St. Albert’s busiest park. For
more information, visit www.visitstalbert.com.
July 1: Sherwood Park’s Canada Day Celebrations! Come out
from 9 am - 11 pm at Broadmoor Lake Park, Rain or shine, bring
your family and proudly celebrate with an awesome day of FREE
family fun! Includes: activities, entertainment, fireworks, night
time fun, pancake breakfast, a parade, swimming, and lots of
other fun things! For more information, visit
www.strathcona.ab.ca.
July 1: Leduc’s Canada Day Celebrations! Start your day off
with a pancake breakfast at the Leduc Legion, enjoy the parade
on 50th Avenue at noon, take part in wagon rides and children’s
activities (including free popcorn!) from 12:30 to 3:30 pm, and a
ton of other fun activities! For more information, visit
www.leduc.ca.
July 2 – July 11: Dramaworks provides opportunities for actors,
playwrights, designers, directors, teachers, novices, professionals,
and everyone in between to explore and enhance their
curiosity. Highly specialized instructors, an abundance of diverse
workshops, and networking with professional practitioners and
enthusiasts are just some of the benefits Dramaworks
participants have come to expect. For more information, visit
www.theatrealberta.com.
The Edmonton Public Library hosts numerous programs for
families at the various branches. Enjoy daytime or evening
groups such as: Family Storytime, Storytime for Visiting Day Care
Groups, Baby Lap Time, Rhymes that Bind, Time for Twos,
Preschool Storytime, Teen Book Club, Fun for Ones, and many,
many more. For more information, visit your local library or go
to www.epl.ca.
For information on indoor/outdoor swimming pools, call
780-496-SWIM or visit www.edmonton.ca. Also, call your local
YMCA for information.
Cineplex Entertainment Theatre presents Stars and Strollers.
Just because you’ve become a parent doesn’t mean you have to
miss out on the latest movies released. Stars & Strollers makes
going to the movies easy and convenient for parents and
babies. Our baby friendly environment includes: screenings of
the latest releases every two weeks, lowered volume levels,
dimmed lighting, and free stroller parking.
For more information, visit
www.famouplyers.com/theatres/famousbabies.
The City of Edmonton offers free public skating at arenas
year-round. Great exercise and lots of fun! Schedules are
available at City of Edmonton arenas, call 780-496-4999,
or visit www.edmonton.ca/arenas.
The Den (formerly the Teen Centre) in the Town of Morinville
offers various activities and a place to hang out for ages 13-17.
For more information and hours, call 780-939-6044.
St. Albert Grain Elevator Park. Our interpreters will take you
on a guided tour of the train station and historic grain elevators.
Open from Victoria week-end to Labour Day. Admission is free.
For more information, call 780-419-7354.
July 9 – July 11: Celebrate Edmonton’s built heritage by
taking a free tour of a variety of architecturally significant
buildings in Edmonton at Doors Open Edmonton. For more
information, visit www.historicedmonton.ca.
July 11: Plan to attend the 2010 Friends Water Garden Tour,
organized by the Friends of Strathcona County Library, from 10
am to 4 pm. This self-guided tour features ten gardens from the
past nine years. Tickets ($12) are available at Strathcona County
Library, Aqualine Waterfeatures, ABC Tree Farms, Country Roads
Greenhouses and Salisbury Greenhouse.
July 17: A fundraising event for ASSIST Community Services
Centre, the ASSIST Walk & Run 2010 raises funds that will go
towards subsidizing operations and programming of the Centre.
Each participant will get a free T-shirt and a walker/runner
number when you turn in the pledge forms and donations.
Water and light snacks will be provided on site at the Walk &
Run. For more information, visit www.assistcsc.org.
July 17 – 19: Showcasing the best of Aboriginal singing and
dancing, the Poundmaker’s Lodge/Nechi Institute Powwow
2010 is an event you don’t want to miss! Happening at #1
Poundmaker Road in St. Albert, come on out and watch
aboriginal dancing at it’s best. We look forward to seeing you
there! For more information, email [email protected]
or call Alvina Lake at 780-458-1884.
July 19 - 23: Come join us at Bethlehem Lutheran Church’s
“Planet Zoom!” Vacation Bible School. For children ages three
years through Grade Six at 4638-117 Avenue in Edmonton. For
more info, or to register, go to www.bethlehemchurch.ca or call
477-2894.
July 23: Bring your lawn chairs, grab a blanket and head out for
an unforgettable evening of cinema under the stars at Sobeys
Movie Under the Stars at Legacy Park in Fort Saskatchewan.
Bring the whole family down to the Legacy Park Band Shell for a
great night out! Enjoy FREE admission! The movie starts at
10:00 pm (weather permitting). For more information,
call 780-992-6261.
July 23 – 25: Gear up for three days of wild at the Honda Indy
Edmonton, produced by Northlands. The dynamic 3.154 km
racetrack at the City Centre airport in Edmonton, Alberta,
Canada makes this one of the most thrilling stops on the
IndyCar Series calendar. Come see these awesome aerodynamic
machines reach up to 320 km/h. For more information, visit
www.edmontonindy.com.
July 23 – August 1: Summer thrills, action and fun are all on tap
at this year’s Capital EX. Edmonton’s must-see event on the
summer calendar, Capital EX delivers big value for all ages with
live entertainment, familiar favorites and plenty of exciting new
attractions. A carnival atmosphere electrifies the city’s longest
running summertime exhibition with its parade, casino, free
entertainment, thrilling midway and nightly fireworks. Every
July, the biggest live community experience in Edmonton takes
place at Northlands! For more information, visit
www.capitalex.ca.
July 23 – August 1: Dozen’s of Edmonton’s finest restaurants
create menus that allow all to sample their culinary delights
over 10 days downtown, with lots of live entertainment at A
Taste of Edmonton. For more information, visit
www.eventsedmonton.ca.
July 24: Mommy Connections at the Zoo Join us from 11 am
to 2 pm for a special Mommy Connections event. Bring the
whole family out to explore the zoo, play some games, win some
prizes, and get connect with some other families! Please pack a
picnic for your family. We have reserved the Tent Picnic Space for
the event.Bring your Mommy Connections 2 for 1 admissions
passes. Adults are $8.00 and children under two are free.
Children 2 - 12 are $4.00.We have partnered with Basically
Babies for this event. Bring new or gently used clothing for less
fortunate families. Let’s make a difference! RSVP to
[email protected].
July 30 – August 2: A celebration of roots music with legendary
acts, a main stage show, jam sessions, lessons and
demonstrations, the Blueberry Bluegrass & Country Music
Festival is something you don’t want to miss! Happening at
Homecoming Park (formerly Stony Plain Exhibition Park) in
Stony Plain; visit www.blueberrybluegrass.com for more
information.
July 31 – August 2: Come and celebrate the cultural diversity
that makes up Canada at the Servus Heritage Festival. Sixty
cultures at fifty-plus outdoor pavilions feature non-stop
international music, dancing, food, arts crafts, costumes and
more. Enjoy everything that Canadians have to offer by seeing
where they came from. *Admission is free, but please bring
along a non-perishable food item to donate to the Edmonton
Food Bank. Food tickets, which will be sold in advance or at
booths on-site during the Festival, will be required for all food
and beverage purchases on the Festival grounds. For more
information, visit www.heritage-festival.com.
EC
August
August
August 1 – 4: Architecture and Power Exhibit This exhibit
showcases the legislative buildings of Canada’s capital cites
through interesting content, contemporary paintings, and
historical and modern photographs. Citizens and visitors to
Canada can learn about the nation’s capitals as well as the
characteristics and architecture of these marvelous buildings.
The exhibit is on loan from the Commission de la capitale
nationale du Québec. For more information, visit
www.assembly.ab.ca.
August 5 – 8: Canada’s longest running computer gaming
event, Fragapalooza is an annual video game festival/LAN
party that takes place in Leduc. It is primarily a BYOC event
where attendees bring their own computer and play PC or
console games on our high speed Local Area Network.
Fragapalooza also includes official staff run tournaments, and
un-official participant run tournaments. For more information,
visit www.fragapalooza.com.
August 5 – 8: The global stars of blues, Celtic, bluegrass, gospel
and world music come together for four blissful days at the
Edmonton Folk Music Festival. This open-air festival takes
place at Gallagher Park, where a hillside serves as a natural
amphitheatre. For more information, visit
www.edmontonfolkfest.org.
August 6 – 9: Cariwest Caribbean Arts Festival This 3 day
event kicks off with an impressive costume extravaganza,
followed by the most colourful fun filled parade Edmonton has
to offer, complete with Mas bands, dancers, musicians, all
jumpin’ up to the beat of the Calypso rhythm. Visit our
Caribbean Village located in Sir Winston Churchill Square and
sample the flavors of West Indian Cuisine, enjoy a drink or two in
our Beer Gardens (Rum Shop) while being entertained by
talented musicians and dancers. We invite you to join in the fun,
celebrating the spirit of the Caribbean! For more information,
visit www.cariwestfestival.com.
August 12 – 22: Take a historic neighborhood, add dozens of
different venues, stir in performers from around the world, throw
in a few hundred thousand audience members and let it grow
over 11 days. The result: one Fringe Festival. The Edmonton
Fringe Theatre Festival hits the streets of Old Strathcona for 11
days of theatrical merriment. From noon to midnight daily,
performers from around the globe and around the corner will
entertain audiences with song, dance, drama, comedy, and
everything in between. Thousands of people pack the various
Fringe venues daily, making Old Strathcona a see and be seen
neighborhood. For more information, visit www.fringetheatre.ca.
August 20 – 22: Join Team Diabetes at the Edmonton
Marathon! Run or walk to help raise money for the Canadian
Diabetes Association’s National Fundraising program. For more
information on the Team Diabetes Edmonton Marathon, and
how to register, visit www.teamdiabetes.ca, or contact your local
Team Diabetes Coordinator.
August 20 – 22: A family-friendly event, the Edmonton Dragon
Boat Festival will showcase over 50 teams of 20 screaming
dragon boat paddlers racing against each other on the mighty
North Saskatchewan River. Chinese cultural entertainment,
merchandise sales and a beer garden are all part of the event.
For more information, visit
www.edmontondragonboatfestival.com.
August 20: From 7:30 to 11:30 pm, bring your friends and
family out to Churchill Square for Movies on the Square.
Come early to grab a seat and some snacks, and enjoy premovie entertainment including a fabulous balloon artist,
dancing, prizes and much more! Then stick around for the block
buster hit that will be playing on a 3-storey high inflatable
screen. Admission is free!
August 20: 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Ronald McDonald House®
Northern Alberta's 25th Anniversary Presents: Hoedown for the
House. At Blatchford Field Air Hangar at Fort Edmonton Park.
Celebrating 25 years dedicated to caring for families of children
with serious illnesses. Festivities include face painting, petting
zoo, pony rides, outdoor games, a dinner and dance.
For more information please go to www.rmnorthernalberta.org.
August 21: Games for the kids, pony rides, petting zoo, Grain
Elevator tours, Farmer’s Market, contests for the whole family, a
fabulous supper and so much more are what’s in store at the
Spruce Grove Corn Roast! For more information, visit
www.sprucegroveagsociety.com.
August 21: From 7:30 to 11:30 pm, bring your friends and
family out to Churchill Square for Movies on the Square.
Come early to grab a seat and some snacks, and enjoy premovie entertainment including a fabulous balloon artist,
dancing, prizes and much more! Then stick around for the block
buster hit that will be playing on a 3-storey high inflatable
screen. Admission is free!
August 21 – 22: Annual Library Used Book Sale in Sherwood
Park. The Library’s Multipurpose Room will be crammed with
great literary bargains for your summer reading. Open both days
from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Donated books in good condition are
most welcome. For more information, please call.
August 29: Edmonton Horticultural Society (EHS) Bench
Show at Harvest Fair, Fort Edmonton Park The show provides
an opportunity for gardeners and photographers of all ages to
showcase their skills. In addition to the adult categories, there
are categories for children, 10 years and under, and youth, 11 to
15 years. They can demonstrate their gardening prowess by
entering scarlet runner beans, carrots or sunflowers, or practice
their creative talents by building a hortisculpture of flowers,
fruits and/or vegetables. Budding photographers are
encouraged to submit their images of flowers or pets in the
garden, or produce a photo story. Visit www.edmontonhort.com
for complete details on both the adult’s and children’s sections
of the show. For more information, call 780-456-3324 or email
[email protected].
Editors’ Notes: Times and dates are accurate at time of
printing; however, changes can occur. Always call ahead to
confirm. To list your event in Edmonton’s Child, e-mail us at
[email protected].
EC
Campfire
Magic
median Mac King
Renowned magician/co
amazing tricks and
presents more than 50
n hilarious) feats of
astounding (and ofte
to 12 perfect for the
illusion for kids ages 9
oors! Features dozens
campsite or the great ind
cks and stunts, with a
of easy-to-learn magic tri
performed with rope,
focus on feats that can be
s, coins, twigs, and
hats, bandannas, knive
nd the campfire (or in
anything else found arou
).
the kitchen junk drawer
family matters
Calendar of Events Continued
family matters
EC
Enjoy a Relaxing Summer!
DON’T WORRY ABOUT RISING MORTGAGE RATES
By: Gil Jouan
H
ave peace of mind knowing you made the best
decision for you, based on your available options.
Historically, interest rates have been much higher then
the record lows we have experienced over the last several
years. Eight per cent used to be a great rate back in the 80’s
and 90’s. If you had a locked in rate for less then six per cent
you were excited – today we fight for three and four per cent.
The nuts and bolts of the interest rate negotiation really only
determines the minimal monthly payment over a certain
amortization period. That payment needs to easily meet your
budget. If you are only making the minimal monthly
payment and you have an open variable rate, your monthly
payment will go up. With mortgages around $250,000, a one
and a half per cent increase to your variable rate can add an
extra $200 to your monthly payment. If your household
budget is already maxed out, where do you find the money?
What if that $200 was your monthly retirement plan? Do
you stop saving for your future, to pay off your mortgage?
Perhaps understanding the conventional mortgage and the
interest/principle ratio of your payments can shed some light
to options potentially available; however always remember
what may work for one family, may not work for you.
Reviewing Mortgage Alternatives
To Get Started:
• You need to have a great relationship with your
financial planner/advisor along with your mortgage
specialist. He or she has to be someone you trust, respect
and willing to listen to your concerns.
• You have to be able to divulge the issues you may be
having and what you want to accomplish (end results). The
reality is most of us want to borrow some money to buy a great
home and pay it off as soon as possible with a monthly
payment we can afford, while saving for our future, but still
living comfortably in the present. Unfortunately, after making
payments for 25 years, we seldom have anything left over.
the present historic lows. If you feel more comfortable
knowing your minimum payment is fixed for a period of time,
then lock in. Some institutions are presently offering special
promotions for five and 10 years at 4.55 and 4.99 per cent.
❷ You can choose various payment options such as
weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, rapid weekly and bi-weekly
and/or accelerated monthly. The key factor is that you have
no choice about your principle and interest payments. They
are tied together and both must be paid to the lending
institution. Choosing the conventional route, my advice
would be to look at the bi-weekly – rapid payment structure.
This is a great option as you should be able to pay off your
mortgage in 17 years rather than 25 years.
❸ If you like making lump-some payments or expect a
large bonus or inheritance, this is a great way to shorter your
amortization period.
Remember the longer your
amortization period, the more interest you will pay over the
time of your mortgage. With a conventional mortgage the
maximum you can put towards your mortgage without a
penalty charge is 15 per cent of your original mortgage
balance. i.e., $37,500 annually on a $250,000 mortgage.
No Selling, Stocking or Parties
100% Risk Free!
Come Be Successful with Us
Candice Gamez and Team – 403-246-2933 or
helpingothersfromhome.com
e) Perhaps you can purchase an alternative
investment where the interest you pay is tax
deductible and then again use the potential tax
refund to pay down your mortgage debt.
f) Perhaps you want to contribute to your child’s
RESP to help them with their future.
g) Or perhaps you want to go back to school and need
that money for your own tuition? The key is you
have options. Check out www.manulifeone.ca and
please speak with your personal financial advisor so
together as a team you can put a plan in place that
you can follow.
❺ The other thing we do not appreciate is that after all
those years of making payments towards our mortgages, we
have no extra dollars to show for it, even though we basically
have paid for the house twice over. Hopefully our home has
appreciated over time, so at least we’ve seen some equity
growth on our investment. Why not make the same
payments as you are today, but have some flexibility to save
for your future at the same time.
❹ Based on your home equity and saving habits, there
are ways to configure this debt that could allow you actually
write off that interest that you are paying today. There are a
lot of great resources that outline this as well as other
strategies. Check them out! “Is your Mortgage Tax Deducible,
by Fraser Smith; 10 Secrets Revenue Canada Doesn’t want You
to Know!, by David M. Voth; Ordinary People, Extraordinary
Wealth, by Ric Edelman”
As we discussed briefly, there are some options to manage
your debt in an efficient way over time while putting money
aside for your future. Why not pay off your mortgage and
have a nest-egg at the end of that time period. The
alternative is a Home Equity Line of Credit or a H.E.L.O.C.
❶ The principle and interest payments are no longer
tied together. You still have to pay the interest for the debt
you owe. Typically this interest is an open, variable rate and
is at prime. You have options of locking portions of your debt
in and leaving portions open. It is a simple interest
calculation based on your balance owing.
A Dynamic Work from Home Team
Incredible Support To Reach Your Goals
d) Perhaps you can add monthly to your RSP and
then use the refund cheque to put a lump-sum
towards your mortgage debt.
❸ You have no limit for making lump sum payments. If
you were to get a large bonus or inherit a larger sum of money
or perhaps win the lottery; you could instantly put that
amount to your mortgage debt and have no penalty for
paying your mortgage debt back early.
A Flexible Alternative Mortgage – HELOC
Work at Home
United
c) Perhaps you can repay your RSP, 1st Time Home
Owner’s loan.
❹ Reviewing your annual mortgage statements can often
be depressing during the first five to eight years. The ratio of
interest to principle is often 80 per cent interest and 20 per
cent principle. Wouldn’t it be nice to work on getting a
better ratio for yourself or at least figure out a way to try and
make that interest tax deducible?
Understanding Options: Conventional Mortgage
❶ If you choose to follow conventional conservative
methods and want no surprises, perhaps you may want to
lock in your remaining balance of your mortgage for a fixed
term of three, five or 10 years. Interest rates will rise from
towards your mortgage debt and then lend yourself
back the money so it can continue to grow tax free.
❷ The principle portion now is open to you. If you had
no problem making the full payment before, why not make
the most use of this money? Flexibility for your personal life’s
choices.
a) Continue putting a portion to your mortgage debt,
it will lower your interest payment next month.
b) Perhaps put a portion into your TFSA and let that
money grow tax free. Once you have a large
portion, you may choose to put that money
Interest rates will not remain low for ever; however we
should not panic that they will jump by five per cent over
night. The key is to understand how a rate increase will
affect you and then plan to make any required adjustments
that work best for your personal situation. In order for you
to enjoy your summer, you want some peace of mind
knowing your future debt payments as well as your future
investments will be secure.
Deciding to make changes can be easy for some and
harder for others; however there is one constant in life,
nothing ever stays the same. The world around us continues
to evolve and change. It’s what makes life so exciting; you
never know what is coming around the corner. Go out, live
life and have a great summer!
Gilbert Jouan is licensed Independent Financial Planner who
helps educate families on the principles of planning their life’s
financial journey whether it be full retirement or just living
comfortably through their golden years. If you want to discuss
how your money can work smarter for you, call Gil at 780-9452876. His common sense approaches will help give you peace of
mind for a more secure future. He can provide you with a
personalized, no obligation evaluation to help get you started on
your journey today!
EC
EC
During a Separation or a Divorce
By: Natalie Boutin
S
eparation and divorce are periods of transition for a
family and the children involved will feel the impact of
these changes. There are some children who can pass
through these events with minimal disruption to their
emotional well-being while other children have a more
difficult time adapting to the changes that a separation or
divorce will bring. Though children are highly resilient, it is
important to ensure that we give them every opportunity to
adapt with minimal difficulty.
Important decisions must be made during a separation or
a divorce and invariably, arguments will ensue. These
discussions will vary in frequency and intensity depending on
the family but common topics include finances, custody of
the children, schedules and discipline. All of these topics
place the children’s daily lives at the centre of the
conversation, which often results in a feeling of guilt for the
children. They will often blame themselves for the fights or
even for the breakup of their parents’ marriage; therefore, it
is vital to talk to them about their feelings.
There are several things that a parent can do to minimize
the feelings of powerlessness and guilt that their children
may feel during this time of transition:
❶ Remember that though your relationship with your
spouse may no longer be positive, your children love both
parents. A child who hears the venting about one of his
parents can feel torn and obligated to take one side. Find
positive supports for yourself other than your children.
❷ Place your children first. Encourage them to express
themselves and listen to their thoughts and feelings. Allow
them to choose how they would like to express their feelings.
Dance, art, journaling, friends, sports and counsellors are
examples of positive options.
❸ Take parenting courses to develop strategies to
manage schedule conflicts between two homes, discipline
differences and many other regularly occurring challenges.
Collaboration is an important part of all healthy
relationships.
how others might perceive their changing marital status, it is
important that the children do not feel they are keeping a
secret or that this is something to be ashamed of. Having one
person (a teacher, the principal…) at the school with which
the children can talk when necessary can be very reassuring
for all involved.
Because of the changing dynamics at home, the more
stability the school can offer the better. This stability can be
offered through extra-curricular activities, friends and
classroom routines. Informing the school of changes in
custody and decision-making rights is an important part of
ensuring your children receive appropriate support and care
at school. One of your children’s concerns will also likely be
that they will be required to change schools after the living
arrangements are finalized. Going to a new school is another
change that is very difficult for children; therefore it is
helpful to avoid a school transfer while they are adjusting to
the changes at home.
There are several resources available for families who are
seeking to learn more about how to help their children
through a family separation and divorce:
http://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/pi/fcy-fea/
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/publicat/mh-sm/divorce/toc-eng.php
http://www.kidshelpphone.ca
Important things to remember are:
• Talk to your children
• Your kids love both parents, don’t make them choose a
side
• Take care of yourself
• Find a support system
Michelle M. Garneau, B.Sc.
Registered Family Mediator
Natalie Boutin is a Franco-Albertan and she has lived in
Edmonton all of her life. She has been working with at-risk youth
for 10 years and is currently employed with the Greater North
Central Francophone School Board as a Behavioral Consultant.
EC
At Nobrega Financial we pride ourselves in
building a relationship with our clients that
will last a lifetime.
We want to help you, plan that trip…
“The vacation to last the rest of Your Life”
You provide the destination...
We’ll map out the path to help get you there!
You’ll be pleasantly surprised how much fun you
can have planning your Financial Journey!
Call Gil Jouan today
Direct: 780-293-2986
www.nobregafinancial.com
®
A Proud Member of Advocis
Specializing in
Separation & Divorce
❹ Take care of yourself by making time to nurture your
friendships and your interests to better manage your stress.
As with all changes, school-age children often manifest
evidence of this transition at school. Their mood may
change and they could become tearful, quiet, anxious,
aggressive or oppositional. Other children will reveal
evidence of a change in routine and schedule by being tired,
distracted or disorganized. For these reasons, it is important
to inform the school so they can support your children if
needed. Though many parents worry about their privacy and
The changes caused by a separation or divorce can be
managed gracefully by offering an open and healthy
environment for your children.
Garneau Mediation Services
Telephone 780 499 9815
[email protected]
www.garneaumediation.ca
Call for your no charge
20 minute phone consultation
The Financial Advisors Association of Canada
Common sense approaches…
Practical solutions…
PEACE of MIND !
Financial Planning and Insurance Consultants
Suite 1401, 1010 - 103 Ave., Edmonton, AB. T5J 0H8
Office: 780-945-2895 Fax: 780-420-6655
Store Hours: M, T, W, F, 10 am - 5:30 pm • Th 10 am - 7 pm • Sat 9:30 am - 6 pm
Phone: (780) 758-2525 • 7109 101 Avenue, Edmonton • Shop online! www.birthsource.ca
family matters
How to Support Your Children
family matters
EC
Brotherly Love:
How to keep the peace amongst siblings By: Dr. Tamara Honoski
O
ne of the things that surprised me most about being
the parent of two young children was how early and
how intense the conflicts could be between them,
even at the age of two and four.
Having researched this area throughout my graduate
studies, I knew that sibling conflict would be inevitable, but
I was not prepared for how innate this type of antagonism
seemed to be. The extreme emotional responses they each
had made it evident that parents have to monitor their
children carefully, and intervene on their disputes so that
they do not cause any physical or emotional damage to one
other. This is especially important during times when
children are spending more time together, such as when they
are home for spring or summer break, or when the family is
away on holidays, leaving the children to be confined
together for longer periods of time.
Although research findings indicate that sibling
maltreatment is one of the most prevalent forms of family
violence, it is also the least studied and understood, as many
people tend to overlook and minimize negative interactions
when they occur between siblings. It seems that the most
common view is that “kids will be kids” and that hurtful
behaviour is an inevitable aspect of a sibling relationship.
While it may be that conflict or rivalry between brothers and
sisters is unavoidable, negative behaviors that escalate into
damaging forms of abuse or maltreatment are unacceptable,
and can cause a great deal of damage and developmental
difficulties for the children involved.
Watch Your Child’s Grades &
Confidence Soar with our Proven
Summer Camps & Programs
Lil Learners - Ages 4 to 6
This program offers younger students an
introduction to Reading and Math. A typical day
will include circle time, individual writing, activities
and crafts, and story time & book talk.
Fun to Learn - Grades 1 to 6
Students have fun strengthening their Math and
Language Arts skills.
Junior High Building Blocks
Students entering Grades 7, 8 and 9 can improve
Math, Language Arts and Science skills with an
introduction to concepts for the upcoming year.
Pure Math Boot Camp - Grade 10
Lower levels of conflict can be helpful in teaching
children many skills such as problem solving and negotiation
strategies, but these often need to be directly taught, as
healthy conflict resolution does not come naturally. Much of
this learning occurs before the conflict begins, and can be
accomplished during more calm times, such as by parents
modeling appropriate conflict resolution themselves, setting
ground rules for the way family members need to interact
with one another (such as having “zero tolerance” for name
calling, insults, or violence), letting the children know in
advance what the consequences will be for breaking the
ground rules, and creating a family climate that is respectful,
avoids comparison or competition, and celebrates the
differences and unique qualities of each child.
Children also need to be taught alternatives to yelling
and fighting, such as focusing on feelings, being assertive and
speaking up for themselves, taking breaks when getting
upset, and seeking help from an adult when needed. “Istatements” can be especially helpful for children to learn, as
they can start to express themselves in a way that focuses on
their own feelings, rather than casting blame and creating
defensiveness in their brother or sister. In addition, parents
need to watch for appropriate conflict resolution and
positive sibling interactions and praise these behaviours so
that they are reinforced and repeated in the future.
Even after learning some of these strategies, children can
become embroiled in a conflict that they do not seem able to
resolve in an appropriate manner. At that point, it is
imperative that parents step in so that the altercation does
not escalate. At that point, it may be helpful for the children
to take a break in order to calm down. Once they are brought
back together, parents will need to make sure they take the
time to hear each side of the story, without focusing on who
“started it”, as both children have a role to play in the
conflict. Parents can also help children to stay focused on the
issue at hand, label feelings, see how their actions impacted
the other, and brainstorm solutions. In addition, parents may
need to walk children through various resolution strategies,
such as compromise, sharing, taking turns, and dividing
fairly. It is also important that the parent help the children
to restore their relationship, by giving apologies, hugging,
and redirecting them to another activity. The amount that
the parents intervene will depend on the age of the children,
as well as the intensity of the conflict. Preschool children
will likely need to be walked through each step, as they are
just starting to learn how to resolve conflict and share their
feelings in an appropriate manner. For older children, having
a “family meeting” on a regular basis can give children a
chance to air their differences, express their feelings, and
Students will review key concepts to bridge into
the Pure Math 10 material with a solid overview
of the course.
figure out solutions, as well as work with the parents to
negotiate rules, make family decisions, and arrange fun time
with one another.
When parents do not intervene appropriately, sibling
conflict can escalate into more serious forms of maltreatment
or abuse. Abuse would be characterized by hurtful physical
behaviours that cause damage or pain to the victim. Abuse
can also be verbal or emotional in nature, consisting of such
behaviours as teasing, ridiculing, or humiliating the victim,
as well as causing damage to one’s treasured belongings or
mistreating a pet. Sibling abuse is normally characterized by
a recognized power differential, with a clearly identifiable
instigator and victim. However, there are cases where two
siblings may each be engaged in the abuse of one another.
There are several negative effects that can arise from
sibling abuse or maltreatment, many of which are longlasting and can extend into adulthood. For victims of sibling
maltreatment, some of the ramifications include physical
injury, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, disrupted
interpersonal relationships, an inability to trust, and playing
the victim role in adult relationships. Instigators may also be
negatively impacted by a dysfunctional sibling relationship,
and may experience peer rejection, delinquency, anger
management problems, and the maintenance of aggression
into adulthood. Many siblings who have a dysfunctional
relationship continue to experience difficulties with one
another as adults, which can lead to feelings of grief,
depression, anger, and resentment over not being able to
maintain a close, healthy sibling relationship.
One of the most important contributing factors to a
dysfunctional sibling relationship is the role of the parents.
Many siblings who engage in maltreatment are either left
unsupervised or have parents who accept or normalize
abusive interactions. Siblings are also negatively impacted by
parents who model violent behavior in the home, engage in
corporal punishment, or experience emotional difficulties of
their own. In addition, rivalry can escalate into
maltreatment when parents show differential treatment to
their children or compare their children in a manner that
increases feelings of competitiveness and jealousy.
Many of these more harmful forms of sibling conflict can
be avoided through attention and intervention on the part of
the parents. However, there are cases where parents may feel
the need to seek outside assistance. Counselling can be very
effective in helping children to work through their
difficulties and find healthier ways to express their feelings,
resolve conflict, and interact with one another. Counselling
for the parents can also be helpful, as well as for adults who
are coping with the negative effects of a dysfunctional sibling
relationship.
Science Skills & Math Prep - Grade 11 & 12
Build a strong foundation and sharpen skills in
Math, Chemistry and Physics.
NORTH
SOUTH
Londonderry Mall Aspen Corner
780-456-3632
780-414-0360
ST. ALBERT
WEST
Tudor Glen Place LaPerle Centre
780-459-8886
780-486-9003
www.acadfor.com
MATH
n
ENGLISH
n
CHEMISTRY
n
PHYSICS
Discover
how you can
give meaning
to your photos and
stories today!
Once parents have taught their children healthy conflict
resolution strategies, these same ideas can be used
throughout their lifetime, in a variety of relationships. Kids
may be kids, but we can help them to have a more loving,
empathic, and understanding relationship with their siblings,
as well as with the other important people in their lives.
Dr. Tamara Hanoski is a registered psychologist who has been
in the counselling field for over 13 years. She provides counselling
to individuals, couples, and families, as well as play therapy for
children. She can be reached at (780) 604-8704, or visit her
website at www.drthanoski.com for more information.
EC
EC
la section francophone
Comment appuyer votre enfant
Par: Natalie Boutin
L
a séparation et le divorce représentent un temps de
transition pour une famille et les enfants impliqués
ressentent souvent les effets des changements qui en
découlent. Certains enfants vivent assez bien ces
changements et nécessitent peu d’appui pour assurer leur
bien-être émotionnel tandis que d’autres enfants ont plus de
difficultés à s’ajuster aux changements entrainés par une
séparation ou un divorce. Malgré que les enfants sont des
êtres résilients, il est important de s’assurer qu’on leur donne
l’appui nécessaire afin qu’il y ait un minimum d’impact sur
leur vie quotidienne.
Plusieurs décisions difficiles et complexes doivent être
prises lors d’une séparation ou d’un divorce et souvent, des
désaccords entre les parents peuvent survenir. En fonction de
chaque famille, ces désaccords vont souvent varier en
fréquence et intensité, mais les sujets les plus communs lors
des débats incluent : les finances, la garde des enfants, les
horaires et la discipline. Tous ces sujets placent la vie
quotidienne des enfants au centre de la discussion, ce qui
peut créer un sentiment de culpabilité chez l’enfant. L’enfant
va possiblement se blâmer pour les chicanes ou même pour
les changements dans la relation de ses parents. Il est donc
important de créer des occasions d’en parler avec eux.
Afin de minimiser les sentiments de culpabilité et
d’impuissance de l’enfant, voici certaines choses que les
parents peuvent faire :
❶ Souvenez-vous que même si votre relation avec votre
conjoint(e) n’est plus nécessairement positive, votre
enfant aime ses deux parents. Un enfant qui entend
des commentaires négatifs au sujet d’un de ses parents
se sent obligé de partager cette opinion ou de défendre
l’autre parent. Trouvez des adultes à qui vous pouvez
vous confier plutôt que de faire ce type de
commentaire devant vos enfants.
lors d’une séparation ou d’un divorce
❷ Mettez le bien-être des enfants avant tout.
Encouragez-les à exprimer leurs pensées et leurs
émotions de quelque façon que ce soit. L’expression
individuelle peut se faire par la danse, l’art, les sports,
les amis ou avec un professionnel en santé mentale.
❸ Prenez des cours offerts aux parents qui visent à
développer des stratégies pour gérer les conflits
d’horaire entre deux foyers, à comprendre les
différences dans les styles de discipline ainsi que
plusieurs autres sujets épineux. La collaboration est
une pierre angulaire de toute relation saine.
❹ Prenez soin de vous-même en vous entourant d’amis
et en vous investissant dans vos intérêts afin de mieux
gérer votre stress.
Comme avec tout changement, il est possible que les
enfants d’âge scolaire manifestent qu’ils vivent un temps
difficile lorsqu’ils sont à l’école. Ils pourraient devenir
hypersensibles, renfermés, anxieux, agressifs ou
oppositionnels. Pour d’autres enfants, on remarquera qu’ils
démontrent de la fatigue, de la désorganisation ou ils sont
facilement distraits. Voilà pourquoi il est important d’aviser
l’école; étant au courant des difficultés vécues par l’enfant
le personnel enseignant sera plus en mesure d’offrir l’appui
nécessaire. Plusieurs parents s’inquiètent que les autres vont
porter un jugement sur leur situation mais si on cache la
réalité, l’enfant peut croire que sa situation est un secret ou
un embarras pour la famille et ses comportements peuvent
devenir encore plus difficiles à gérer. Il peut être rassurant
pour votre enfant d’avoir une personne (une enseignante, la
direction) à l’école avec qui il peut parler. N’ayez pas peur
d’être jugé, l’école a pour rôle de travailler avec vous.
Puisqu’il y a plusieurs changements à la maison, il est
idéal d’avoir autant de stabilité que possible à l’école. Cette
stabilité peut se retrouver dans des activités parascolaires, des
amis, des routines de classe, etc. Dans la mesure du possible,
il faut éviter un changement d’école pendant que l’enfant
s’ajuste à sa nouvelle réalité à la maison. Il est important
d’aviser l’école des changements portant à la garde des
enfants afin d’assurer que votre enfant reçoive l’appui
nécessaire à l’école.
Il existe plusieurs ressources pour les familles qui
cherchent à mieux appuyer leurs enfants pendant une
séparation ou un divorce :
www.justice.gc.ca/fra/pi/fea-fcy/
www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/publicat/mh-sm/divorce/toc-fra.php
org.jeunessejecoute.ca/fr/
Les choses importantes à retenir :
• Parlez à vos enfants
• Vos enfants aiment les deux parents, ne les obligez pas
à choisir entre les deux
• Prenez soin de vous
• Confiez-vous à des adultes
Ces transitions peuvent se faire en douceur si vous offrez
un milieu ouvert et sain à vos enfants.
Natalie Boutin est une franco-albertaine et elle a toujours
vécu à Edmonton. Elle travaille avec les jeunes à risque depuis 10
ans et elle travaille présentement avec le Conseil scolaire CentreNord comme conseillère en comportement.
EC
education
EC
An Afternoon with the ESO:
The Students’ Perspective
I
n our last issue, we put the call out to local music teachers
to nominate a student whom they feel shows an
extraordinary love of music and passion for playing. Well,
they answered our call and we were honoured to read the
stories of these amazing young musicians!
The selected students enjoyed lunch with members of the
Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, and the opportunity to ask
questions of the musicians. They were also treated to an
afternoon performance of the ESO’s Parisian Charm. Here is
what a couple of our winning students had to say:
of people to stay focused. You always need to be prepared and
you need to concentrate.
To help improve my skills, Bill said that if you practice
improvising it helps a lot and is very important. Also, he said
it’s not just about reading the notes and playing the music –
it’s about hearing the music in your head and feeling it. I
really enjoyed listening to the ESO play that afternoon; it
was an outstanding performance. It makes me want to stick
to my music until I get as talented as those musicians!
~ Emily B
On Sunday May 30, I was fortunate enough to attend a
special concert event with members of the Edmonton
Symphony Orchestra. I learned a lot of interesting facts
about the ESO and I learned that it takes a lot of
commitment and time to be as skillful as them. I got to talk
to one of the musicians in particular. His name was Bill
[Dimmer] and he has been playing with the ESO since
1971!! He gave me a lot of good advice if I wanted to
continue my career in music. He said that the people who go
the farthest and work the hardest are the ones who do the
best. You also have to be a fast learner!
Moms looking for extra cash?
Join today... Starter kits... $165... valued over $1200!
Book a show or start your dream job!
Tiny Tots Expo - Sept. 11/12
Visit my booth - special 1/2 sale
Independent Advisor:
Roberta Fisher
(780) 995 1933
www.liasophia.ca/canada
MUSIC LESSONS
GUITAR, VOICE, UKELELE BANJO, MUSIC APPRECIATION
The ESO Student Shadow was an experience of a lifetime
and one that I shall always remember. I especially liked
talking with Bonnie Yeager, a violist with the ESO. She
supplied answers to all my questions about the ESO and
herself. I’m grateful too for the quick and special tour of the
Winspear. The concert was fabulous! This experience has
sparked my imagination to see other possibilities for a career
and to take my own music study to a whole new level. Thank
you so much!
~ Carolyn B
Another problem that musicians have to fight is
nervousness. Bill told me that he still gets nervous all the
time, but that there are different routines for different kinds
Lia Sophia
Canada’s Hottest New Fashion
Jewellery Company!
EC
“Without Missing a Beat” is a great article about kids and
music. Find it at www.edmontonschild.com.
All basics in each area to turn your child into a capable player,
singer, listener, and participant!
(Scientists say music instruction improves IQ)
GUITAR/UKELELE/BANJO - chords, notation, tab, modern music using music your child loves! Sheets, visual aids.
Simple, proven method.
VOICE - how to project voice, proper breathing, expression,
actions, fun and effective!
MUSIC APPRECIATION - how to listen to various styles, many fun
exercises, colorful sheetwork, movement. AGES 4-14.
Adult Lessons also, Camps/Workshops can be arranged.
Instructor has B.Ed., RCM, 15+ yrs. Experience
Call today (780)722-0986
EC
education
Six Week
k Post-Natal Progr
rog
g am
& New Moms
M
Social Network
Now offe
ffered in 5 Edmon
m nton Re
R gion Locati
c tions!
N
New
Moms Ge
et connected toda
da
day!
Baby Wearing & Diapering ~ Fitness & Nutrition ~ Infan
nt Massage ~ Infant Firsts Aid ~ Bab
B by Dental Concerns ~ Clubs &
Classes ~ Returning to Work ~ City Programs ~ Literacy and more! Swag bag full of discounts & samples for every mom!
S me off ou
So
ur amazing
i g expert
p
pertt pr
p esenters
t
& spo
p nsors are:
www.cosybabyhappymommy.c
y om
www.naturalurbanmamas.com
www.mtnorthernli
l ghts.com
www.magdakirkwood.com
www.thetrravelingteacher.ca
www.keylimecanada.com
www.mommyc
ommyconnections.ca
ctions.ca
i .ca
education
EC
Letter from the editor:
S
Letter from the editor:
weet summer. Had I the choice, I would have opted to
hibernate until this very moment. The blazing
sunshine, the relaxed morning routine void of school
lunch making, the addition of ice to my tea – it’s what carries
me through the abundance of blustery cold winter months
that threaten to drag on for the entirety of the year.
Of course, these months also bring with them a lot of free
time for the kids; a lot of free time for the kids that can result
in challenges for the parents and caregivers. In our Summer
Fun section, be sure to check out the great ideas for busting
summertime boredom. As well, find some great tips for
traveling with children, helping everyone in the family to be
water smart, and learning how to decide if an ADHD
medication “holiday” is the right choice for your child during
the summer.
Children’s birthdays in the summer can go a couple of
ways: disappointingly, because they miss out on celebrating
with their friends who are away on vacation, or fabulously
because, well, it’s summer! And what’s more fun than having
the freedom to enjoy a warm-weather party? Don’t miss out
on our fun Under the Sea-themed birthday party – it’s sure to
be a splashing good time! As well, read about how local
birthday-boy, Isaac Wurmann, is changing the world, one
party at a time.
In this issue, we are very excited to introduce our new
Family Matters section. We’re starting things off with a
hilarious look at fatherhood – an honest and real look at how
one local dad deals with having two little girls in his life. As
well, we’ll take a look at how to tackle sibling rivalry, and we
have some tips for supporting your children during
separation and divorce.
We buy and sell gently used kids items.
A huge thank-you to Heather Wagner Photography for
the beautiful cover photo of 5 year old Chloe. To learn more
about Heather’s amazing work, see page 2.
Everyone here at Edmonton’s Child Magazine wishes you
an amazing summer, full of fun, family and relaxation. Meet
us again back here for our September/October issue, where
we’ll be chatting about Back to School, and Fall Classes and
Programs! But for now, settle into your lounge chairs, and
enjoy our latest issue!
Kerri Leland • Editor
[email protected]
EC
education
JULY 9
© 2009
UNIVERSAL
STUDIOS
education
EC
Classes & Support
Adoption Options
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-433-5656
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.adoptionoptions.com
A private, not for profit, adoption agency committed to providing
counseling and services to expectant parents and adoptive parents since
1984. We are the leaders in open adoption, bringing birth and adoptive
families together. All services to expectant parents are free, regardless of
the final decision of placing or not placing a child for adoption. We want
“birthparents” to make the right decision for them and their child.
Alberta Justice – Focus on Communication in Separation (FOCIS)
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-644-5092
FOCIS is a free 6-hour, skill based communication class for separated or
divorced parents of young children. The workshop teaches parents how
to communicate effectively while parenting apart. Parents learn how to
help their children by showing them that people do not have to argue to
get their ideas across.
Alberta Parenting for the Future Association
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-963-0549
E-mail: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.apfa.ca
Operating in the communities of Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, and Parkland
County, our focus is on building parental skills, communication, and
strengthening the relationships between parents and children. We are
now the contact for the Parkland Parent Link Centre.
ASSIST Community Services Centre
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-429-3111
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.assistcsc.org
Provides programs and services to persons new to Canada, including
Nobody’s Perfect parenting education, family services information and
referrals, and more.
Association for Safe Alternatives in Childbirth (ASAC)
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-425-7993
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7219 - 106 Street (side door)
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.asac.ab.ca
We offer: Library 10 to Noon Wednesdays; and Playgroup 10 to noon on
Wednesdays and Fridays.
Ben Calf Robe Society - Kihci Awasisak Program
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-477-6648
Offers Traditional Parenting, Health For Two, Auntie’s Storytelling, Crafts,
Healthy Families and Scrapbooking. Call for more information.
Ben Calf Robe Society - Mother Earth & Me Headstart Program
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-477-6648
Early Intervention pre-school program for 3-4 year olds Aboriginal
children. September to June half day programming, transportation is
available.
Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-481-3451
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11515 113 Avenue
Coyote kids is a free weekly Aboriginal culture program for Aboriginal
children from the ages of 6 - 12 years. Meetings are every Monday
evening from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Prince Rupert/Rites of Passage
School.
Boys’ & Girls’ Clubs of Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-422-6038
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.boysandgirls.ab.ca
Boys’& Girls’ Club has nine community-based centre’s located
throughout Edmonton that provide a safe and supportive environment,
with positive activities for children, youth and families.
Capital Health
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-408-LINK (5465)
(24 hours a day) A range of services are available for families planning or
expecting an infant, or who have a new baby. We also help families
develop the understanding, skills and resources they need to: maintain
or improve their health; prevent injuries and disease; identify health
problems early; receive treatment for health problems; manage common
illnesses and chronic illnesses; and find the right health services when
needed.
Catholic Social Services
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-432-1137
Offers a variety of programs and services for children and families
including adoption information, anger management, family counseling,
programs for children and youth, parent/teen mediation and more.
People of all faiths are welcome.
Changing Together – A Centre for Immigrant Women
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-421-0175
Offers information, referrals, family violence prevention workshops and
numerous other programs to assist women who are new to Canada.
Circle of Friends Bullying Support Group
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Circle of Friends is a support group aimed at kids, parents, educators,
bullies, victims and bystanders. We aim to promote respectful,
constructive, forthright communication between all parties involved in
school aged bullying.
Community Options - A Society for Children and Families
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-455-1818
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.communityoptions.ab.ca
Offers a wide variety of programs and services for families including
information on childcare, services for children with disabilities, and the
Inglewood Community and Family Resource Centre.
Dickinsfield Amity House
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-478-5022
Provide educational and social programs to assist underprivileged
families; these include parenting and preschool programs. We also offer
classes in Active Parenting.
Edmonton Down Syndrome Society
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-944-4224
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edss.ca
EDSS provides information and support for persons with Down
syndrome and their families. Check our website for information on
monthly general meetings and our casual evening Parent Groups.
Trained volunteer parents will visit new parents to provide peer support
and information. Support can be given in person, over the phone,
or via email.
Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers (EMCN)
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-424-7709
E-mail: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.emcn.ab.ca
The Centre for Newcomers provides support to immigrant and refugee
parents and families, regardless of their cultural background, religious
beliefs or country of origin. Programs include: Community-based family
literacy and parenting groups, and youth/family counseling; Educational
brokers to assist families in communicating with schools; English as a
second language classes with accompanying childcare.
Edmonton Twin and Triplet Club
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-455-5520
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.ettc.ca
We provide moral support and guidance for parents to promote an
interest in, and supply information about multiple births. For further
information on our meeting dates and programs, please visit our
website.
Edmonton VBAC Support Association/ICAN of Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-444-9527
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonVBAC.com
We host free information and support meetings on the 4th Thursday of
the month at 7:30 pm regarding cesarean recovery and Vaginal Birth
After Cesarean (VBAC). In addition we offer a specialty prenatal class
called “ICAN Birth: Cesarean Prevention” at 6:00 pm for $25. Please RSVP
by calling or sending an email.
(The) Family Centre
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-917-8205
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.the-family-centre.com
The Family Centre offers several different parenting courses. We will be
running Parenting Toddlers & Preschoolers; Parenting School Age
Children; Parenting Teens; Parenting Challenging Children (for parents of
elementary school children diagnosed with ADD/ADHD or similar
behavior); Positive Single Parenting; and Succeeding as a Step Family.
FASD Support and Resources in Alberta
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.fasd.typepad.com
This website lists services, supports and resources specifically for families
and other caregivers of children, youth and adults affected by Fetal
Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in Edmonton, Calgary and other
regions of Alberta.
Gateway Association for Community Living
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-454 -0701
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201, 11803 - 125 Street
E-mail: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.gatewayacl.org
Gateway Association for Community Living is a non-profit organization
that provides support and advocacy for individuals with developmental
disabilities and their families.
Grieving Parents
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-451-5381
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.grievingparents.ca
This organization offers support to parents who are coping with the
death of a child at any age. The Edmonton Chapter meets every 3rd
Thursday of the month; St. Albert Chapter meets every 1st Thursday of
the month, and Strathcona Chapter meets every 3rd Wednesday of the
month. Please call more information.
HEARTS (Helping Empty Arms Recover Through Sharing)
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-464-3217 (Cheryl)
A program offered by Parents Place Association of Sherwood Park,
HEARTS offers support for pregnancy loss. This unique program offers
individual support, a 6 week registered group, a monthly newsletter, a
library of books and email or phone support. We serve all of central and
northern Alberta.
ISTAR
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-492-2619
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.istar.ualberta.ca
The Institute for Stuttering Treatment and Research is a self-supporting,
non-profit organization that offers specialized treatment to children,
teens and adults who stutter. In addition, we conduct research into
stuttering, and promote public awareness of stuttering and its
treatment. ISTAR is an institute of the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine
at the University of Alberta.
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Canada
Edmonton Chapter
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-428-0343
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17321 108 Avenue NW, Centre 107
Fax: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-428-0348
E-mail: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
If you or someone you love has recently been diagnosed with type 1
diabetes, we at JDRF are here to help. Visit www.jdrf.ca for helpful
information.
KARA Family Resource Centre
North East Edmonton Parent Link Centre
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-478-5396 (Bev)
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6717-132 Ave. (Main Site)
E-Mail: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.kara-frc.ca
Connect with other parents and families in your community. We run
groups and programs where parents can share parenting skills and
knowledge. We also offer early childhood programs and Collective
Kitchens, Health for Two, and a home visitation programs.
Kids Kottage Foundation
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-448-1752
Crisis line: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-944-2888
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.kidskottage.org
Children can become vulnerable to abuse and neglect when their
parents are consumed by crisis and distress in their lives. Kids Kottage
provides care for the children in a safe, warm, loving environment.
Trained staff and volunteers tend to the physical and emotional needs of
the children during their stay of up to 72 hours.
La Leche League
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-478-0507
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.lllc.ca
La Leche League offers breastfeeding information and support, through
our helpline and monthly meetings. By calling the helpline number or
checking lllc.ca you can get information about local groups as well as
assistance with breastfeeding questions.
The Learning Disabilities Association of Alberta
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-466-1011
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected].
The LDAA Edmonton Chapter supports children and adults who
have learning disabilities and/or ADHD and their families. We offer
support group meetings, parent information sessions, a resource library,
and much more!
Little Warriors
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-888-440-1343
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.littlewarriors.ca
Little Warriors is a charitable organization with a national focus to help
prevent child sexual abuse. Take action and register today in the
Stewards of Children program. It is a revolutionary child sexual abuse
prevention training program that educates adults to help prevent,
recognize and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. The program runs
three hours in length and costs $40.00 per participant. Visit our website
to register.
Mill Woods Family Resource Centre Society
Main Office: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5704 – 19A Avenue
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Knottwood Site: 1733 Millwoods Road
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Millbourne Community Site: 3756–78 Street
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-413-4521
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.mwfrc.org
Mill Woods Family Resource Centre responds to the many challenges
and stressors families face by offering free programs and services in a
comfortable environment. Programs and services include: early
childhood development, children & youth, parent education, family
support, information and referrals to community services, and
developmental screening for children birth to age five.
Misericordia Children’s Health Centre
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-735-2613
Misericordia Children’s Health Centre offers classes for parents of
preschool and elementary school aged children with challenging
behaviors. Subsidies are available. Please call for more information or to
register.
Missing Children Society of Canada
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-661-6160 (toll free)
E-mail: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.mcsc.ca
The Missing Children Society of Canada (MCSC) is a registered non-profit
organization dedicated to the search for abducted and runaway
children.
Multicultural Health Brokers Co-op
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-423-1973
The Multicultural Health Brokers Co-op provides health education and
family support to immigrant and refugee families, including prenatal
education, post-natal outreach and parenting support in 15 different
languages.
Newcomers’ of Edmonton
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonnewcomersclub.com
The Newcomers’ Club of Edmonton is designed for women of all
ages who are new to the area within the last two years. This is a great
way to meet people who share the common experience of being the
new kid in town! We have many different sub-groups such as our
weekly Moms & Tots club, monthly Ladies Night Out, Friday Coffees
and Scrapbooking just to name a few... There is something for everyone.
Please check out our website for more information and Welcome to
Edmonton!
Norwood Child & Family Resource Centre
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-471-3737
Since 1963, the Norwood Child & Family Resource Centre has been
supporting children and families in the Norwood and surrounding
communities. The programs and services offered from the Centre have
always had a strong focus on supporting children and families in an effort
to lessen the negative impacts of poverty: isolation, child abuse,
substance abuse, low academic success, and criminal activity. We offer a
Healthy Families Program for first time parents, Early Start Program for
children birth to 6 years old, Head Start Program for children 31/2 years
old by September 1, Child and Youth Program for children 5-13 years old,
as well as a variety of literacy and parent/personal development
groups/workshops.
☞
EC
Terra Association
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-428-3772
E-mail: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.terraassociation.com
Terra has been serving pregnant and parenting teens in Edmonton since
1971.We offer a variety of programs and services including individual and
group support, life skills, advocacy, child development information and
parenting support. We also regularly offer parenting classes for teen moms
and dads.
PLAN Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-488-2422
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.planedmonton.ca
PLAN Edmonton facilitates networks of support, for families who have a
relative with a disability and who may be isolated and vulnerable.
The Foundation for Families in Transformation
(FFIT) - RAINBOWS™
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-448-1180
Toll Free: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-416-4673
E-mail: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
FFIT provides free, confidential RAINBOWS™ peer support programs
through its partnered sites to Alberta families. Our mission is to help
children, adolescents and adults in accepting, healing and moving forward
after a death, divorce, separation or abandonment. Through fun activities,
games and discussions, RAINBOWS™ helps children understand and
accept the changes in their lives.
St. Albert Parents’ Place Association
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-459-7377
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Suite 10A, 215 Carnegie Drive, St.Albert
E-mail: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.stalbertparentsplace.com
We are a non-profit family resource center serving St. Albert and the
surrounding communities. Early Childhood Programs, parented and unparented, child & youth programs, adult programs and support groups
make up over 100 courses and workshops offered annually. We have Home
Visitation and Head Start Programs. We also host special events
throughout the year; Teddy Bears’ Picnic, Halloween party and the Roy
Financial Mayor’s Walk for Charity.
St. Albert Newcomers’ Club
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-419-2595 (Shelley)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-459-6441 (Judy)
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cornerstone Hall, 6 Tache Street, St. Albert
The St. Albert Newcomers’ Club is designed to give ladies that are new to
an area the opportunity to meet and develop friendships with others who
live in the community. We have many “sub clubs” and encourage our
members to develop new relationships by sharing interests and hobbies
with each other. We meet the second Tuesday of the month.
Stepping Stones
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-437-3000 (ext 4)
E-mail: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.stepping-stones.ca
Stepping Stones is a program designed to support, encourage and assist
pregnant and parenting teens in Edmonton. Our programs offer a powerful
sense of belonging and opportunities to develop essential parenting and
life skills including support for breastfeeding, discipline, budgeting,
nutrition, cooking/baking and goal setting. We offer one-on-one
mentoring, discussion groups, special events, and a care closet stocked with
maternity clothes, baby clothes and supplies, as well as post-maternity
clothing. Group events are held weekly: Scrapbooking 3- 6pm every
Tuesday; Discussion Groups every Thursday at 10am; childcare and
meal/snack are provided.
Strathcona County Twins and More Club
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-953-5228 (leave a message)
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.strathconacountytwinsandmore.com
Strathcona County Twins & More Club is a social support group for parents
or guardians of twins, triplets, quads or more living in Strathcona County
and surrounding areas. We connect with local support agencies, speakers
and organizations that can help us better cope with parenting 2, 3 or more
children at the same time! We act as a social support for one another and
help each other through all stages of parenting from multiple pregnancy,
premature births, nursing, toddlerhood, the school ages, discipline and
everything else!
Treasure Chest Pets
item that combines
Truly a one of a kind
animal in one, giving
organizer and stuffed
way to keep all their
kids a cute and cuddly
different stuffed anispecial things secure. Six
m in 3 three different
mal designs to choose fro
t Dog and Accessory
styles - Accessory Ches
drawer and two secret
Chest Pig have a hidden
, along with secret
pockets on the outside
asure Chest Monkey
pockets in both ears. Tre
w have one gigantic
and Treasure Chest Co
s like a treasure chest.
pocket inside that open
edia Chest Horse have
Media Chest Bear and M
e head and 3 comparta secret pocket inside th
re CDs, DVDs, speakments in the body to sto
and more. For more
ers/cables, MP3 player
mytcpets.com.
information, visit www.
Touched by Adoption in Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-459-2767
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.adoption.meetup.com/112/
We are a group of people whose lives have been touched by adoption in a
variety of ways. We are a combination of waiting to be matched adoptive
parents, adoptive parents and adoptees of all ages. We are interested in
meeting people with similar experiences. We are excited about the
wonderful things that we can learn from one another, from those of us at
all different places in the adoption journey.
Tourette Syndrome Support
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-866-824-9764 (toll
free)
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8525 101 Street
E-mail: . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] OR [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.tourette.ca
Tourette Syndrome support meetings, for parents of TS kids, and TS adults,
1st Wed. every month, 7pm, Academy of King Edward.
Edmonton’s Child ‘Family Classes and Support’ is a free listing provided
as a service to our readers - always phone ahead to confirm availability
and times of sessions. To list your free family class, please send a short
summary including days and times to [email protected].
Deadline for the next issue is August 2nd, 2010.
EC
Dr. Shawn Russett
12913 140 avenue NW, Edmonton, AB T6V 0A3
(780) 456-1511
REAL ART FOR KIDS
• Improves school marks, develops right brain...
other subjects are mostly left brain.
• Improves drawing skills by 85%+
in the first session of ten lessons.
• Learn about: Masters, how to paint, use of brushes
Caminitos
& the right approaches to become a real artist
who can make art autonomously... art improves
observation skills, encourages thinking “outside the box”.
Know what underlies art of good taste! All the basics
through many colorful & generous projects!
Located in northwest Edm. near Leon's.
GREAT FUN, COOL PROJECTS, SUPERB ART EDUCATION
•
S PA N I S H P L AY S C H O O L
•
AT E S C U E L A M I L L C R E E K S C HO O L
9735 – 80 Avenue Edmonton, AB
Contact Clara at: 780.240.5332 or
[email protected]
www.caminitosplayschool.com
Lessons available for every age group.
Taught by Instructor B.Ed., Art Major, 15+ yrs. experience.
BURSTING RAINBOW CREATIONS
Give Your Child the Advantage of a Second Language
Quality
selection,
knowledgeable
staff,
30 years
experience!
7925 - 104 Street, Edmonton • Phone: 780-439-5600
Email: [email protected] • www.greenwoods.com
Dr. Ian McKee
Classical, authentic training – not quick throw-away crafts!
ECM-July/10
Salvation Army Family Service Centre
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-424-9222
Offer a variety of support services to families including counseling, an
emergency food depot, and crisis support (suicide prevention).
education
Parents’ Place Association of Sherwood Park
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-465-3217
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
We offer birthing classes, breastfeeding support, postpartum depression
support, baby loss support, child loss support, a toy and resource lending
library, early literacy programs, including baby sign language, parent
education workshops, a grandparents program, and a family volunteering
program. We have two locations in Sherwood Park. Please call our office or
email us.
Call Now! (780)722-0986
Sandra Gray
School Of Dancing
4638 – 99 St.
(Letourneau Centre)
www.sandragrayschoolofdancing.com
email: [email protected]
*Tap *Jazz *Ballet *Pointe *Musical Theatre*
*Lyrical *Hip Hop *Modern *Preschool
Registration begins August 16th, 2010 • PHONE 437 – 5312
(great location - 2 blocks north of Whitemud Freeway on 99th street)
EC
education
BUSTING MYTHS:
THE TRUTH BEHIND VOLUNTEERING
By: Volunteer Edmonton
A
sk a few people what they think about volunteering
and you might be surprised by the variety of answers.
Everyone seems to have a different opinion about
volunteering—what it is, the kind of work that’s involved
and who is a volunteer.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of the common
myths and misconceptions about volunteering that
sometimes prevent individuals from getting involved.
Volunteer work requires skills, training or experience
Some specialized volunteer opportunities do exist, but
most organizations are simply looking for people who are
enthusiastic and willing to learn. Volunteers often receive
support, training and orientation for the job, which means
it’s a chance to try your hand at something new or different
that you wouldn’t get to do in your job or at home.
Volunteer work is boring
Volunteering means doing work for free
It’s true that volunteer work is unpaid, but the benefits
and rewards volunteers often receive in return can’t be
measured in dollars. Aside from gaining a sense of
accomplishment and satisfaction and even new friends,
you’ll also pick up a huge range of skills, knowledge and
experiences that will help you in other areas of your life.
Volunteering is time consuming
Between work, family, school and extracurricular
activities, there isn’t much spare time left during the day.
Organizations recognize this and that’s why many are now
offering flexible or short-term volunteer opportunities where
you could volunteer for a couple weeks or a handful of days.
Think special events, festivals, fundraisers, marathons,
summer camps, retreats and much more.
The days where volunteers only stuffed envelopes or filed
papers are long gone. Today’s diverse and unique volunteer
opportunities range from working as a translator for an
immigrant settlement agency or sitting on the committee of
a fundraising event, to answering the phones at a crisis line
or organizing a music therapy program at a seniors home.
The opportunities are endless and can offer individuals the
opportunity to share their talents, gain career-building
experience and champion a cause they believe in.
Volunteer work is only done with a charity or organization
Volunteering is about helping others without the
expectation of pay. That means mowing your elderly
neighbor’s lawn or driving a friend to their doctor’s
appointment every week is also considered volunteering—
informal volunteering, that is.
elves
Special Needs Society
Unlike formal volunteers, who work within a structured
group or organization, informal volunteers are often unseen
and their work goes unrecognized. These “hidden”
volunteers are simply lending a helping hand to their fellow
community members, friends and family members whenever
needed. In the end, volunteering, whether it’s formal or
informal, makes a positive difference in our communities.
To start your search for a volunteer opportunity, visit
www.volunteeredmonton.com or call 211. For more
information, please contact Evelyn Pham at (780) 7326655.Volunteer Edmonton is a program of The Support
Network.
EC
An enhanced
preschool program
for your child.
Accepting
registration for
Fall 2010.
P: 780.297.0519 • www.littlecaterpillar.ca
Office Address: 10825 - 142 Street, Edmonton,AB T5N 3Y7
Phone: 780-454-5310 Fax: 780-454-5889
Email: [email protected] Web: www.elves-society.com
Charitable No. 118898360RR0C01
Elves Special Needs Society is now accepting
Pre-school, Kindergarten & Respite registrations
for the 2010/2011 school year.
An accredited, non-profit private special education school for children
with special needs offers:
Pre-school programs for children with Autism, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), multiple
disabilities or speech, gross/fine motor, cognitive or behavioural delays and complex needs.
School Program for children who have Autism, Down Syndrome, Developmental delays,
are medically-fragile or have complex needs.
On-site Teachers, Teacher Assistants, Nurses, Behavioural Consultant, Occupational
and Physical Therapists, Speech Language Pathologists and Social Workers.
Please contact Social Workers at 780-454-5310.
Visit our website at www.elves-society.com for further information.
FASD Family Respite Care After-School Program
For children 3 to 8 years old.
Tuesday and Thursday evenings and all day Saturday.
For more information, please contact Elves at 780-454-5310.
EC
www.creaturesall.com
LATE
WINTER
by
Karen Probert
by:
Tres Bore
I’ve an all consuming problem.
I’ve a wrong that needs made right.
It leaves me comatose by day
and keeps me awake at night.
The first thing I’ll look for in my search
is a pet which doesn’t need food,
except for maybe an occasional drink
of water, when I’m in the mood.
You see I have this odd sort of pet,
both fat and offensively smelly.
He’s a goat of well rounded tummy.
A goat less ‘Billy’ than ‘Belly’.
It shouldn’t have horns and shouldn’t bleat.
It won’t need to be taken for walks.
It won’t put on weight, nor make demands,
nor require heart to heart talks.
He eats things most others would duck
or dodge and beat a retreat.
Last week he had a duck for lunch,
& a Dodge left parked on the street.
It shouldn’t shed hair nor smell like a goat.
It should thrive on being ignored.
It won’t pout nor whine when left alone,
nor grouse and gripe when bored.
irty snow rings the field where the dogs are yapping happily as
they run. Stretching my legs out from the park bench I shelter
from the world. I watch the dogs. Beaver, with his stout, stocky
So there you have the criteria.
Most goats are happy to eat tin cans
My wish won’t be
legs and lustrous brown and white fur has to work twice as hard as
and consider themselves well fed.
hard to grant.
But my grumpy goat wants more than cans.
Speedo, whose grey-blue hair swirls and sways around him as he leaps
My next
He
wants
the
contents
—
every
last
shred.
into the clear air. They feel Spring coming.
pet choice
The breeze that ruffles my hair is cool enough to chill the unwary but
is obvious.
And the cartons too, and the grocery cart,
it smells of the death of Winter – old road salt, wet wool clothing, rotting
the shelves and the shoppers too.
wood, thawing dog poop, exhaust fumes. On our walk over we had seen
He’s prepared to eat the store manager,
I think
not even slowing to chew.
signs of Spring – wet sheets strung on a line to dry, fuzzy sprouts of croI’ll go buy
cuses poking up through damp earth, dandelion stalks pushing through
So, sadly for him, this goat’s got to go.
a plant.
sidewalk cracks, water running down driveways from melting snow piles.
I need to get a new pet.
In this park there are few sounds except the dogs and dry tree branches
But it’s no small challenge figuring what
cracking together. If I listen carefully I can hear a few small birds chatting
kinda pet I oughta get.
about the coming of Spring. I imagine them deciding who will live with
The dogs’ feet will later bring mud and gravel into the back entrance where the
who this year and in which nest site, about whose offspring will be coming home
to roost close by and whose are straying further away to test their presence in a old, yellow towel hanging there will get stained and dirty again. Beaver will hold still,
patiently suffering the indignity of having the cracks between his toes cleared of mud
foreign area. Their chirps contain an eagerness for a bright, warm day.
The dogs come at my whistle to lap water from a yellow, portable bowl and to and debris. He will watch my face until after I wipe the mucous from the inside
snuffle delicately at my pockets until I hand them each two treats. Old Beaver gets corners of his old eyes. A boost from my hand will start him on his way up into the
his lying on his side at my feet, his grey-curtained eyes boring love into my heart. kitchen. Speedo has to be first or he’ll dismiss the experience as beneath him,
Speedo strains to sit still, without twitching or scooching closer. This lesson has running into the kitchen spraying mud on the baseboards in his hurry. He will twitch
been a hard one but his demeanor improves with daily practice. The second one is and grimace as I lift each back leg to dry off the pads and fluffy fur, then rub down
a freebie accompanied by a gentle pat to his soft head and a rub down from his chin his chest and belly where the muddy water has sloshed. Finally free from my
to his chest. His eyes reflect the first rays of sunlight that are reaching the ground. ministrations he’ll give himself a shake and race for his food bowl. Once satisfied he’ll
The golden highlights in them dance and glint with joy. After Beaver enjoys find that special spot of sunshine beaming through the front window onto the dining
another drink a wave of my hand sends them racing back to their game on the field. room floor, stretch himself out as long and flat as possible to snore and dream of
Today’s sun promises real warmth and the ability to melt some of the raggedy his morning’s adventures.
Beaver will plod into the kitchen to sit by my feet while I make a cup of tea.
snow along the edges of the grass in the field. Roofs will drip. Small rivers on the
gutters of streets will carry sand and salt, wrappers and bottles, a sodden mitten While the kettle heats I’ll scratch between his ears, talking softly to him of things
and other debris to the edges of manhole covers. Water will run from eaves we’d seen on the way home. Once he knows that our world is secure again he’ll head
troughs and drip from downspouts out onto lawns where robins will gather to to his wicker, pad-lined bed to turn around and around before digging it into a nest
shape where he’ll curl up to dream of the Springs when he was young. ca
splash and drink, chirping their thanks for the arrival of Spring.
D
For parents
and children,
birth to 4 years old.
Sept. - June
Contact: [email protected]
Located in Brookside Hall
(next to Brookside Elementary School).
5320 - 143 Street, Edmonton, Alberta.
www.peanutbutterandjam.ca
creaturesall
My all consuming problem©
sharing the planet with our fellow creatures
creaturesall
EC
sharing the planet with our fellow creatures
www.creaturesall.com
A N G E L I N A
he was one of fifty pullets purchased from a
poultry farm to become free-range layers, but
when I lifted her out of the crate she
propelled herself backwards in a flurry of wings
and shavings until she came to rest, panting,
against the wall of the barn. Her left leg appeared
to be broken.
Thinking she had been injured during
transport, I rushed her to our avian vet. She
confirmed the leg was broken at the hock and had
rotated, but it had fully healed; the shank now
flexed to the side with the foot upside-down. She
hinted at amputation, but the foot was warm and
functional. Something told me to leave it intact.
The saving grace of the injured hen’s caged
existence had been her easy access to food and
water, but in a free-run setting there would be no
mercy for a lame bird. After all she’d been through,
we felt she deserved a little compassion so we
brought her into our home. We named her
Angelina, “Little Angel,” because to us she was a
perfect little angel just as she was.
We lined a plastic grocery box with a towel for
her but she launched herself right over the side
with her good leg. As she struggled to stand, she
flapped backwards against a chair and came to rest, balanced on her right leg.
My husband and I shook our heads in amazement.
We cut down a large cardboard box, leaving the sides high enough to keep
her safe. She was thus empowered to be as active as she wished. Through trial
and error, we found that the best bedding was a large folded towel covered by
a thin layer of pine shavings. We could easily pick out her droppings, and the
non-slip surface maximized her mobility. The twisted limb that would have been
removed in the quest for visual perfection became a key element in Angelina’s
quality of life.
Two months after she arrived, Angelina presented us with her first small
brown egg. Others followed at thirty-six-hour intervals. She proclaimed these
events by loud cackling followed by quiet focus.
In mild weather, our back yard offered excellent footing, forage and
motivation for Angelina to reach her full potential. She was soon hopping after
any insect that crawled, jumped or flew. Her upside down foot, calloused from
use, provided a pivot point when changing direction. She also used it to grasp
low branches for balance when browsing beneath a shrub. To move quickly,
she hopped on her good leg, used the other for mid-stride stability, and flapped
her wings.
As cold weather approached, we noticed that Angelina frequently lost her
balance and did the “splits,” even when in her box. Our vet x-rayed her and we
were shocked to discover she had no left hip socket. Inspired by falconers’
jesses, I fashioned a one-piece suede hobble that slipped over each foot, and then
adjusted it to stabilize her left leg within a comfortable radius so it would not
overextend. She once again embraced her life with confidence.
That winter, her captivating personality emerged. A diminutive hen named
Penny was the only creature to receive “in-box” visiting privileges. In an effort to
S
control as much of her life as she could, Angelina
always set the rules: sometimes she shared treats
from her dish, and sometimes she insisted they
hunt for seeds among the shavings.
While we were watching television one night,
Angelina repeatedly tapped her beak on the edge
of her box so urgently that I picked her up to
check her. She seemed fine and settled on a towel
in my lap with her left wing over my arm. Feeling
completely secure for the first time in her life, she
preened all her hard-to-reach feathers and then
slipped into a blissful sleep with her head
tucked beneath her right wing. An evening ritual
had begun.
When a neighbour’s dog killed another
beloved hen, we found Angelina safe but cowering
under our deck. As I cuddled her and buried my
face gratefully in her feathers, I felt her cool beak
gently tracing my cheek. Angelina had seen tears
trickling down and was trying to catch them. Most
hens peck at shiny objects, but she examined
every tear, freckle and crease on my face with
cautious fascination. What a precious little soul
you
are, I thought. She soon gave these “kisses”
by Elisabeth Dowson
whenever I asked. The image of her crossed eyes
as she looked at me down the length of her beak always made me laugh.
Whenever I left the house, Angelina fretted and squawked. One day, having
no real schedule, I tucked her into a towel-lined grocery box and took her with
me. She nestled down and enjoyed the scenery so much that I planned outings
with her whenever I shopped for renovation, farm or gardening supplies.
Angelina inspected each new item placed in the cart and pecked at those of
interest, chattering constantly. Once people realized they weren’t imagining a
hen in a box being chauffeured in a shopping cart, they always smiled and
initiated heart-warming conversations. Several seniors shared memories of their
own chickens on a long-ago farm, and many children were fascinated to see and
pet a real live chicken for the first time. Angelina’s effervescent personality
quickly dismissed any doubt about her quality of life or her resolve to live it well.
When early spring weather allowed her to be outside again, Angelina loved
to explore our new sun-bathed greenhouse because it had a grass floor and all
the delights of digging in the earth. I thought she was safe in her sanctuary, but
how wrong I was. A tunneling weasel proved to be the one challenge Angelina
could not overcome.
For days I was inconsolable. Her loss in this way was incomprehensible.
Eventually I realized that in Nature there is no right or wrong, no just or unjust;
there is simply experience. We borrowed Angelina for a time, but the Universe
retained ultimate control over her destiny.
Each time I pass the flourishing little spruce tree we planted over her, I
remember with great love the diminutive hen who tasted the sorrow of my tears
and prepared my heart to hold greater joy. The solutions we devised for her
facilitated the lives of other creatures yet to find their way into our lives.
Angelina proved that when we champion courage and facilitate potential,
almost anything is possible — even for a common but perfectly special hen. ca
Safe & nurturing “learn through play”
)XOO GD\ FRRS FKLOGFDUH
GD\V SHU ZHHN
DP SP
$JHV PRQWKV WR \HDUV

2OG 6WUDWKFRQD ORFDWLRQ
5HDVRQDEOH UDWHV
([SHULHQFHG FDULQJ VWDII
6XSHUYLVHG VOHHS URRP
<HDUURXQG HQUROPHQW
6HSW-XQH
Fur and Feathers Animal Care
Are you going on holidays?
I will look after your animals at your home or mine. I will walk your
dog, clean your cat’s toilet, feed your fish, hug your bunny, pet your
parrot, give lots of TLC and do any other animal related chores.
Group off leash walks offered. Doggy Daycare also available.
Security clearance and references are provided.
Call Michele at 780-235-1189
Rebecca Summach
B.A. B.Sc. OT (c)
Occupational Therapy Service
for Children
780-414-6899 [email protected] ZZZVRXWKVLGHPRWKHUVFRP
p. 780 965 4310
[email protected]
www.growingchanges.ca
EC
education
There’s nothing more relaxing than sitting out in the sun and enjoying a good book.
Greenwoods’ Bookshoppe has some great suggestions for some fabulous summer reading. Take a look!
PICTURE BOOKS
Happy Birthday, Little Pookie
By Sandra Boynton
Little Pookie is up before dawn because
. . . it’s her birthday, and she just can’t
wait to celebrate! Pookie’s Mom gently
coaxes her little one back to bed—but
not for long! The celebration begins as
Daddy makes Pancakes Supreme, and
an energetic and excited Pookie parties
on all day.
Board Book $6.99 Ages 0 to 3
Zen Ghosts
By Jon J. Muth
It’s Halloween. There’s mystery and fun
around every corner! When Addy,
Michael, and Karl finish trick-ortreating, their bags are brimming with
treats. But the fun isn’t over yet. Their
good friend Stillwater the panda has one
more special surprise in store for them.
A mysterious visitor is about to tell them
a spine-tingling story — one that will fill
each and every reader with wonder.
Hardcover $22.99 Ages 5 to 9
Fancy Nancy: Ooh La La!
It’s Beauty Day
By Jane O’Connor;
illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser
What better way to fancy Mom up for
her birthday than to treat her to a
super-deluxe beauty day? With relaxing
music, fragrant lotions, colorful nail
polish, fancy makeup, and foamy
mousse, Nancy gives her mom a total
makeover. But when the pampering
suddenly goes too far, has Nancy ruined
her mom’s big day?
JUVENILE FICTION
Fablehaven 5: Keys to the
Demon Prison
By Brandon Mull
After many centuries of plotting, the
Sphinx is after the final artifacts
needed to open the great demon
prison, Zzyxx. If the legendary prison is
opened, a tide of evil will usurp control
of the world. In this explosive series
finale, allegiances will be confirmed
and secrets revealed as the forces of
light and darkness collide in a
desperate battle to control the keys to
the demon prison.
Hardcover $24.95 Ages 10 & up
Fever Crumb
By Philip Reeve
Fever Crumb has been adopted and
raised by Dr. Crumb, a member of the
Order of Engineers, where she serves as
an apprentice. At a time when women
are not seen as reasonable creatures,
Fever is an anomaly, the only girl to
serve in the Order. All Fever knows is
what she’s been told: She is an orphan.
But where did she come from, and is
she truly human?
Hardcover $21.99 Ages 12 & up
Blimpo: the 3rd Circle of Heck
By Dale E. Basye; illustrated by Bob Dob
With more clever, dark humor and
zany silliness, Dale E. Basye sends
Milton and Marlo Fauster back for
thirds in another laugh-out-loud
installment of the popular series Heck.
Welcome to Blimpo, where the, um,
plump kids go.
®
ASAC presents: Prenatal & Baby Care Lectures Spring 2010
Please pre-register
Nutrition for Fertility and Pregnancy
Prenatal Class Options
at 780-425-7993 or
Birth and Postpartum Doulas
[email protected]
Making the Most of Your Hospital Birth
7219 - 106 Street
Cesarean Prevention
(side door) ASAC
Art of Breastfeeding
Baby Wearing, Cloth Diapering & Diaper Free
Alternative Health care during pregnancy:
Chiropractor, Chinese Medicine, Reflexology
June 2 Becoming a Midwife
April 7
April 14
April 21
April 28
May 5
May 12
May 19
May 26
You too can own a home
with little or no money down.
Call today & lets get
you moving!
Katie O’Brien
780 700 5342
[email protected]
www.katiethemortgagelady.com
Mortgage Associate
Be sure to check out
“Encouraging Your Child to Love Books”
at www.edmontonschild.com.
Music for Young Children®
is the only child-centered
music learning system that
integrates keyboard,
creative movement,
rhythm, ear training,
sight reading, music theory
and composition.
Discover the JOY of MYC!
Contact the MYC Edmonton
Teacher Hotline
780.437.4347
education
EC
Family Resources
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
CLASSES & PROGRAMS
Adventure Bus
Academy for Mathematics & Science
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-700-8287
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.adventurebus.ca
A mobile gym filled with fun equipment, operating year-round. 18 months – 8 years.
Quality, professional instruction, specialty programs, daycare, pre-school & school classes,
birthday parties & special events. We bring the fun to you!
4 Edmonton & Area Locations
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-456-3632
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.tutoringacademy.ca
We are the Math Tutoring Specialists! The Academy offers tutoring in Math from Grade 1
to 12, Language Arts for Grade 1 to 9 and Chemistry and Physics for high school students.
L’ll Learners program for 4 to 6 year olds available at most locations. Exam preparation
and summer programs also offered.
Alberta Legislature
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-427-7362
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.assembly.ab.ca
Free guided tours of the Alberta Legislature Building offer something for the whole family.
See magnificent architecture, hear the stories of our past, and discover the fun secrets and
mysteries of the building. Don’t forget to stop off at our Interpretive Centre and to check
out our special events held throughout the year!
Birthday Birdie
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780- 235-1189
We will come to birthday parties- adult or child- We will also appear at any other type of
function-corporate or weddings for entertainment. For younger child’s parties, I will bring
a bag of feathers to do some sort of craft.
Edmonton Symphony Orchestra (The)
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-428-1414 (Box Office)
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonsymphony.com
The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra is dedicated to enhancing the cultural life of our
community through entertaining and educational concerts and events. Every year we
perform education concerts for 30,000 students from central and northern Alberta. In
addition to our concerts geared towards kids and families, we also offer special discounts
for students and youth.
GiGi & Friends Inc.
Edmonton
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-975-8232
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.gigiandfriends.ca
GiGi & Friends offers Airbrush face painting, using a liquid makeup that washes off with
soap & water. A hit with children & adults. Or, choose balloon animals or comedy, magic
shows.Your choice of characters range from: storytime to carnival, magician to train
conductor or an elf to Mrs. Claus.
Inflatable Fun Inc.
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-709-7193
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.inflatablefun.ca
Get your party jumping with Inflatable Fun. We rent inflatable jumping tents and
combination slide units! Book us for your next birthday party or event and jump up the
fun. Check out our website or contact us for tent selection and specials.
Kidz Quarterz
Sherwood Park
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-467-0172
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .#172, 2693 Broadmoor Blvd.
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.kidzquarterz.ca
We are an indoor recreational facility for children under 13 and their families with an
indoor play structure, secured toddler area, gaming area and restaurant. We have four
party rooms which include a sports, castle (medieval), Canadian wildlife and a very large
karaoke room.
Cecchetti Dance Theatre
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-233-2232
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10330 – 84 Avenue, TransAlta Arts Barns
E-mail: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.cecchettidance.com
Offering ballet, pointe, jazz and hip hop to all ages and levels starting at age 3 years old
and up. Classes for All programs are within a state of the art facility in the heart of Old
Strathcona with ample parking available.
Clay for Kids
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-487-2874
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.clayforkidsedmonton.com
We come to you to help celebrate your birthday! Lots of fun clay projects and WE supply
clay, paint & brushes. No Mess, No Fuss! Call to book your party now!
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-436-1590
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .McKernan Community Hall (University Area)
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
DANCE! Revel in the joy of aesthetic movement!! Dance for fun, exercise, healthy vigorous
activity… for personal confidence, self-realization. ALL CHILDREN experience a broad
variety of dance forms integrated with other Arts activities.
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-474-9626 (South) and 780-474-9620 (North)
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3663-99 Street (South) and 13533 St. Albert Trail (North)
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.gymboreeclasses.com
All seven of our new age-appropriate levels from birth to five years are designed to, not
only encourage your child’s development, but to help you better understand it. Play, music
and art classes for 0-5. As well, we have wonderful birthday parties.
Itsy Bitsy Yoga
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-405-7497
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.pureyogastudio.ca
Help your baby or tot sleep better, digest easier, be happier and stay healthier. We will
introduce your baby or tot and you to the many benefits of yoga. It is a compassionate,
fun-loving and interactive program that focuses on the child’s exploration of yoga and
your bond with each other.
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-980-9643 (Charlene)
Are you looking for a practical way to supplement your household income? Try Watkins
Products! We offer quality cooking and baking needs, a medicinal line, botanical body care,
and biodegradable home care products with a money back guarantee. For just $39.95 and
no sales quotas, what do you have to lose?
Work at Home United
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .403-246-2933
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.helpingothersfromhome.com
Financial freedom? Quality time with the family? Balance in your personal, family and
business life? Work at Home United is an award winning team with unparalleled
success. We will supply you with the FREE training, FREE tools, and the mentoring you need
to work from home and be successful.
Avonmore Community Playschool
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-465-1941 (leave message)
address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7902 - 73 Ave (above rink building)
website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.avonmore.org/playschool
Registrations are accepted year round. Monday, Wednesday and Friday classes 9:00am 11:30am. Reasonable fees and one duty day required. We have a fantastic Teacher and an
amazing full time Aide. We have Developed a strong learning through play program
including music, science and crafts. We also have a guest or field trip every month. Come
and learn with us and don't forget to have fun!!!!
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-240-5332
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.caminitos.com
Caminitos Spanish Playschool is a non-profit Spanish-English bilingual playschool for
children who are 3 to 4 years of age and potty trained. Classes offered
Monday/Wednesday in the morning and afternoon.
In 1888, three nuns from the order of the Faithful Companions of Jesus began teaching 23
Catholic students in the very first Catholic school in Edmonton. We have grown as a school
district from one school with 23 students in Edmonton to 84 schools with 33,441 students.
We are blessed to offer publicly funded Catholic education! Please visit us at www.ecsd.net
for more information.
Edmonton Public Schools is the second largest school district in Alberta, with
approximately 80,000 students in over 200 schools and education sites. Our District
believes that every student is capable of succeeding in school and in life, regardless of
their personal circumstances. Our staff works in co-operation with parents, community
members and other partners to help every student build a bright future. Download our
Quick Guide at www.epsb.ca for more information.
Elk Island Public School
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.eips.ca
Elk Island Public Schools is one of Alberta’s largest school systems, serving over 16,300
students in 44 schools. Our students, staff, parents, and community work together like the
pieces of a puzzle to create a picture of quality education and endless opportunities for all
students. Visit www.eips.ca for more information.
Elves Special Needs Society
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10825 - 142 Street
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780.454.5310
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
A special education program for disabled children offers pre-school and school programs.
Funded by Alberta Education. Transportation provided. On-site therapist team includes
special education Teachers, Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapists, Speech Language
Therapists, Nurses and Social Workers. Program offers a loving, caring environment.
Registrations currently being accepted for the 2010/2011 school year.
Music for Young Children
Watkins – Charlene Garner, Independent Associate #366055
EDUCATION & PRESCHOOLS
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-701-4942
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.jadoredance.com
They offer recreation focused dance classes for adults, children, and parents with babies.
CAMPS
CAREER
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-452-1070
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.weehands.com/weehands_nicole.htm
Why wait to communicate? Did you know that sign language helps to reduce frustration
for caregivers and babies? WeeHands with Nicole currently offering baby sign language
classes in Edmonton and area. Call Nicole to register for a class today!
J’Adore Dance
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-633-5916
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.mommyconnections.ca
Operating in 4 communities in Edmonton, plus Sherwood Park & Leduc. Connecting moms,
dads & families through post-natal programs, this six-week program is available in South and
West Edmonton, Leduc, Red Deer; coming soon to North Edmonton/St. Albert and Sherwood
Park.The program is designed to educate, inform and connect new moms in their
communities on topics including post-natal fitness & nutrition, baby dental concerns, literacy
& communication, returning to work and more!
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-722-0986
Art exercises the right brain. Other subjects exercise the left brain. Art turns one into a
keen observer and a tasteful designer! We offer colorful, fun, quality art classes and
workshops for children of all ages with many surprises! Multiple materials such as paint,
pastels, fabric, recyclables, etc. are used to make gigantic mon- sters, yard assemblages,
drawings, paintings of cartoon characters and scenes. All materials supplied, tons of
project choices, dynamic results.
WeeHands
Edmonton Catholic School District
Gymboree
Edmonton
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.zoo2u.ca
What about a Zoo 2 U birthday? Zoo 2 U is a traveling zoo that brings a fun and
educational show to you. Has your child always wanted to hold a live snake or reptile?
How about having a parrot on their shoulder? We provide an exciting and interactive
show for birthday parties, daycares, schools and even senior’s lodges. We bring a variety of
animals that are enjoyed by all ages! Check us out at www.zoo2u.ca!
Bursting Rainbows Creations
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-850-2511
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.sportball.ca
Sportball is a non-competitive sports program for children 16 months – 8 years old.
Children are introduced to 7 popular sports: soccer, hockey, basketball, baseball, volleyball,
tennis and golf. Sportball classes are high-energy, fun and creative.
Caminitos Spanish Preschool
Dance ‘n More! For Kids (Ages 3-9)
Mommy Connections
Zoo 2 U
Sportball
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-989-2532 (Tena Trefz, BMus, R.M.T)
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5825 – 93A Avenue (St. Brendan School)
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.myc.com
Interested in finding some FUN music classes for your child? Try Music for Young Children!
There are classes for every age from movement classes for babies and toddlers to
keyboard classes for children, adults and teens.
New Horizons School
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-922-8087
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53145 Range Road 222, Ardrossan
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.newhorizons.ab.ca
New Horizons School is a K-9 public charter school that enables academically gifted
students to achieve excellence in an environment that supports the students’ unique
intellectual, social and emotional needs.
LaPerle Community Playschool
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-866-927-6020
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18715 – 97A Avenue
The LaPerle Community Playschool is a non-profit parent co-operative that offers the
children an opportunity to have fun, learn and grow in a “learn through play” environment.
We offer monthly field trips, visitors, gym time and a kindergarten readiness program.
Come experience the fun.
Musik Garten
Little Caterpillar Academy
Three locations to inquiry about.
Great Beginning School of Music
Classes located in St. Albert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-458-9059
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.gbmusikgarten.com
Image School of Music & Dance
Classes located in Stony Plain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-963-0030
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.heathersmusicalgarden.com
Heather’s Musical Garden
Classes located south and central areas of Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-439-7475
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.stonyplainmusicanddance.com
Please visit each website to see what each amazing, unique program has to offer. Teaching
music, understanding children.
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-297-0519
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.littlecaterpillar.ca
Little Caterpillar Academy is an enriched preschool program that encompasses best
practices from contemporary childhood development research. Our program is unique. We
have a specialized curriculum that benefits all children. Our classes are taught by a speech
language pathologist, a provisional psychologist and a child development expert.
Peanut Butter and Jam Playgroup
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .peanutbutterandjam.ca
We are a parent led playgroup for children birth to 4 yrs old. Weekly playgroups are held
at a community hall in Riverbend. Make great friends ,enjoy play time, crafts and circle
time. For more information or to download a registration form, visit our website today!
Rhythm, Rhyme and Story Time
Edmonton, Sherwood Park and Ardrossan
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-467-0395
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.edmontonpreschoolmusic.com
You and your child (aged 6m-5yrs) are sure to enjoy this music-filled program together as
you sing, dance, and explore a wide variety of musical instruments. Watch as your child
develops vocabulary, language skills, fine motor skills, counting, rhythm and social skills.
PlayDay Program
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-485-0181
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .playdayprogram.com
Playday is a FULL DAY “Learn though Play” parent cooperative playschool for children ages
2-5. Children attend once a week from 9:15 to 3:15. Caring, professionally trained and
educated teachers! Maximum 15 students per day. Huge classroom/play area.
Children in diapers or potty training are welcome. No bingos.
☞
EC
UC Baby
Heritage Makers
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-414-6899
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.southsidemothers.com
Accepting new registrations! Southside Mothers’ Day Out is a parents’ cooperative with
professional staff who provide a safe, nurturing “learn through play” program for children
one or two days per week with ages ranging from 19 months to 5 years.
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-444-1006
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #202, 11523 – 100 Ave
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ucbaby.ca
At UC Baby, 3 dimensional ultrasound is the most advanced ultrasound technology, which
provides life-like baby pictures. Compared to traditional ultrasound pictures, these are
spectacular baby pictures – see smiles, yawning and sucking motions. Leader of 3D
ultrasound.
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-416-1961
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.creatingtreasuredkeepsakes.com
Do you want your photos to tell the stories of important events and people in your life,
instead of remaining trapped in your computer or in unseen albums/shoeboxes? Your
creation is just a click and drag away from becoming a treasured keepsake.
St. Martin Ukrainian Bilingual Playschool
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-919-8244
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.stmartin.ecsd.net
Discover the exciting world of Playschool! Come in and learn how a second language will
enrich your child for the rest of their life.
West End Montessori
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-487-6419
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] or [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.westendmontessori.org
We are one of the few well-rounded programs that provide children with academic,
emotional and social benefit!
HEALTH & SUPPORT
SHOPPING & SERVICES
Allykat Graphics
Devon
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-987-4603
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.allykatgraphics.ca
Designer of this publication. Specializing in multi-page publications, logo design/branding,
brochures and websites. If you are in business, you could use our services. Let us design your
printed material in our unique style and see superior results.
AMA Travel
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-866-667-4777
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.AMATravel.ca
AMA Travel offers a wide range of specialized travel and related services with the
convenience of one-stop shopping. Members enjoy free publications, exclusive savings and
discounts on attractions and hotels. Visit one of our 17 centres today!
Association for Safe Alternatives in Childbirth (ASAC)
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-425-7993
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7219-106 Street (side door)
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.asac.ab.ca
ASAC (The Association for Safe Alternatives in Childbrith) has operated for over 30 years;
and strives to educate families regarding choices in childbirth. ASAC has acted as
Edmonton’s midwifery consumer group, promoting natural childbirth with minimal
intervention. Midwifery in Alberta became funded on April 1st, 2009. ASAC Playgroups and
public lectures run year round. Everyone is welcome.
Axiom Mortgage
Katie O’Brien, Mortgage Associate
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-700-5342
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.katiethemortgagelady.com
We have access to a wide variety of lenders to find the right mortgage solution for you.We are
experts at helping you achieve your homeownership dreams. Access your best options!
Remember, my advice is free on most residential mortgage transactions. REFERRALS WELCOME!
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-471-1122
Foster Care Services are available to people of all faiths and cultures in Edmonton. The
program offers strong support and guidance to foster families, which includes support
available 24 hours, seven days per week. CSS believes a strong connection and relationship
with families is the key to success.
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-758-2525
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7109-101 Avenue
A unique retail store and learning space for mother’s, mother’s-to-be, babies and the people
that care about them. We provide products, supplies, gifts, workshops, prenatal education,
and other resources to enhance the lives of the customers we serve.
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-966-7849
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Unique, quality, sophisticated toys for kids of all ages. How about a red BMW, a horse you can
ride, a train table set, a beautiful kitchen, a firehouse bookcase, Magneatos and even dress-up
attire? Visit www.cooltoysfortots.com to rediscover the child in you. It’s fun to be a kid!
Dimples Baby
Dr. Tamara D. Hanoski
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-604-8704
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.drthanoski.com
Dr. Hanoski is a registered psychologist who is offering counseling to individuals, couples,
and families, as well as play therapy for children. Particular areas of interest include postpartum adjustment and sibling relationships, as well as grief, relationship issues, depression,
anxiety, abuse, parenting, stress, self-esteem, and assertiveness.
Garneau Mediation
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-499-9815
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.garneaumediation.ca
Going through a separation or divorce? Do you need to resolve issues regarding Parenting,
Child support, Communication or division of property? Mediation can provide you with a
private, time efficient, flexible, informal and affordable dispute resolution alternative.
Growing Changes
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-965-4310
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .441, 11215 Jasper Avenue
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.growingchanges.ca
Growing Changes is Rebecca Summach’s occupational therapy service for children.
Rebecca is an experienced pediatric occupational therapist and specializes in assessment
and intervention of children with developmental challenges. Areas of focus include: fine and
gross motor function, sensory processing and self-help skills such as dressing/feeding.
Inquiries for workshops welcomed.
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.dimplesbaby.ca
An Alberta based business offering upscale baby accessories made in Canada, USA &
Europe. FREE Gift-wrapping with every order, gift registry service available and host an Eparty and earn FREE products from our store.
Signature Orthodontics
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-456-1511
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.signatureorthodontics.com
At Signature Orthodontics Dr. McKee and Dr. Russett provide children...and their parents a
great smile in a "state of the art" warm and relaxing environment, performed with
excellence in orthodontic products and techniques, all in an atmosphere of individualized
care focusing on each and every patients unique needs!
Sleep Matters
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-231-2222
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.yoursleepmatters.com
Sleep is an essential building block for a healthy and happy child. Sleep Matters will help
you develop the skills and routines your child needs to sleep soundly and independently, at
night and during the day. Led by two physiotherapists who combine professional work in
pediatric development with their own experiences as mothers, Sleep Matters offers
education, discussion and support through group classes for parents who are expecting or
with children up to age five.
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-435-5472
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3903 - 99 Street
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .kidsfurnituregallery.com
A family owned and operated business that provides quality furniture and accessories from
crib to college. The store has earned a great reputation in Edmonton as a first-choice
destination for all furnishings that meet the changing needs of children as they grow.
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-920–4613
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.kidsmartshop.com
Let me show you what great things we have to offer: feeding & nursing; clothing; toys;
books; arts & crafts and so much more! Safe; non-toxic and award-winning! We have it all!
Contact me for more information: Melanie Bradley, Independent Representative.
Independent Advisor: Roberta
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-995 1933
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.liasophia.ca/canada
Calling all Moms! Lia Sophia, Canada's Hottest New home jewellery company is hiring!
Pick your own hours! Write your own pay cheque! Incredible starter kit valued at over $1200
for only $165. This jewellery is in huge demand and has a lifetime guarantee! Amazing
earning potential with this ground floor company. All training provided. Stop by my booth
at the Tiny Tots Expo in Sherwood Park Sept 11/12 for a special 1/2 price sale!. Call today to
book a show or start the job of your dreams!
Little Monster’s Swap Meet
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-960-0878
E-mail: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Facebook: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Little Monster’s Swap Meet!!!
We are Alberta’s Largest Baby Sale! An entire indoor soccer field full of brand new and
gently used children’s items! Bikes, costumes, clothes, toys, furniture, as well as many
different companies are there each sale to showcase to you the unique products! We are
located at the Trans Alta Tri Leisure Center in Spruce Grove. There are only five sales per year
so don’t miss out! Check out our Facebook group for more info.
Nobrega Financial
E-Children
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-489-0707 or 1-800-377-8278
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10424 - 169 Street (facing 170th Street)
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.e-childrenonline.com
Visit Edmonton’s largest specialty children’s store. We carry a large selection of children’s
furniture, bedding, strollers, clothing and innovative, unique children’s products from around
the world. Our staff works hard to ensure you will receive personalized, informative service
and competitive prices.
Fur and Feathers Animal Care
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-417-4132
I will look after your dog in my home. I have no kennels. The dog(s) are part of the family. I
have a big, fenced back yard and I walk the dogs at the off leash are every day while they
are in my care. I do visits to other people’s homes as well to look after animals and I will do
as many visits as required. I do charge by the visit. I have been doing this for 7 years and
have regular clients and can provide references and a security clearance.
Glitter Body Art Tattoos
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-481-6976
Sparkle Up! Add fun to your event with Glitter Body Art Tattoos. We have over a 100 designs
to choose from. It is waterproof, skin safe - latex free and stays on for up to 7 days. It’s
a proven party hit & a great souvenir for your guests. Book now!
Health Check Restaurants
Edmonton
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.healthcheck.org.
Health Check is now in restaurants! Choosing healthy meals in restaurants just got easier
with Health Check. Each Health Check menu item must meet nutrient criteria developed by
the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s registered dietitians, based on recommendations in
Canada’s Food Guide.
Kids’ Furniture Gallery
Lia Sophia Jewellery
Birth Source Inc.
Cooltoysfortots.com
Catholic Social Services
Toll Free Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-866-454-0998
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.infavour.ca
Beautifully designed, candy-free loot bags filled with premium quality toys at unbelievable
prices! Visit our website to choose from many popular themes including Madagascar, High
School Musical, Hannah Montana, Hot Wheels, Littlest Pet Shop, Pirates of the Caribbean and
hundreds more! Or contact us to personally design your custom loot bags. Check out our
fully themed party packages, or mix & match the loot bags, party supplies and decorations
you need. Sign up for our newsletter to receive valuable coupons and party planning tips.
Worldwide Online Duty-Free Shopping; contact Kym Harris or Lesley Cushing.
KidSmart
Alberta Blue Cross
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-498-8008
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ab.bluecross.ca
Every Albertan can get Alberta Blue Cross coverage. Even if you don’t belong to an
employer plan, you can still enjoy the affordable benefits of an Alberta Blue Cross individual
health plan. Alberta Blue Cross has an individual health and dental plan to suit your family’s
needs—and your budget.
In Favour Loot Bags And Party Supplies
Grammas’ Toy Shop
Edmonton
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4451 – 99 Street
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-435-7495
Grammas’ specializes in reconditioned children’s toys Grammas’ specializes in reconditioned
children’s toys. At Grammas’, we believe that most toys can be recycled and that our children
and our environment can benefit from keeping toys out of our landfill. All toys are cleaned,
sanitized and put back into the original sets. We offer a great selection in new condition
and lower prices.
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-945-2876 (Gil Jouan)
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
We are committed to helping you, our client, better understand how to invest your hardearned dollars wisely today. You’ll be pleasantly surprised how much fun you can have
planning your life’s journey!
Once Upon a Child
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-428-3366 (South) and 780-488-3348 (North)
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3833 - 99 Street (South) and 13531 St. Albert Trail (North)
E-mail: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
When you sell to us, we pay immediately. When you buy from us you get outstanding
values. Once Upon a Child takes the growing market of children’s items, focuses on budgetconscious families and implements a recycling element. We buy/sell gently used and new
equipment, clothing, furniture, toys, etc.
Pixel Pie Photos
Spruce Grove
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-938-9095
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.pixelpiephotos.com
With a joyful attitude & relaxed feel, you’ll receive exceptional photos that you will cherish.
I would love nothing more than to give you my dedicated time and capture the charm and
charisma that children & babies breathe. I love kids and I love photos. Don’t forget to reserve
your spot!
Play and Learn Toys
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.playandlearntoys.ca
Offers high quality toys that promote learning and development and are safe to use by
those we care about. We have a wide selection of wooden toys, and German-made brands.
Our store offers FREE gift-wrapping on all orders, gift registry service and you can host an
online party to earn FREE toys from our store.
Wee Love Baby Boutique
Greenwoods’ Bookshoppe and Greenwoods’ Small World
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-439-5600
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.greenwoods.com
For 30 years - your full-line independent bookstore for the whole family. Baby books, board
books, interactive books, picture books, chapter books, novels, quality toys and puzzles and
much more. Knowledgeable staff, rewards program. Always something new in store!
Edmonton
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1052 – 91 Street SW
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.weelove.ca
We are open now in South Edmonton! We are excited to bring to Edmonton the latest and
greatest in baby and small-child essential and gift items including clothes, shoes,
accessories, toys, nursery décor, and so much more from your favorite brands and up-andcoming designers.You will find unique, organic, eco-friendly, Canadian-made and oh-so
fashionable items at this new store. Join our Facebook group for store updates and specials!
Heather Wagner Photography
Edmonton
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-906-9288
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected]
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.heatherwagnerphotography.com
Heather Wagner Photography offers a fresh, simple and modern approach to newborn
photography. Her style captures the beauty and uniqueness in every newborn, focusing on
the features that make little ones so special and give them their own personality. Newborn
sessions are done in studio using only natural light.
Welcome Wagon
Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-449-3040
Website: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.welcomewagon.ca
We are proud to be a partner in your commitment to the Edmonton Community. With civic
and business information, gifts and invitations the Welcome Wagon reaches new residents,
expectant mothers, new executives and more!
Editors’ Notes: This guide is provided as a reference only. Please
research your choices carefully and choose the companies that work best
for you and your family.
EC
education
Southside Mothers’ Day Out
summer fun
EC
Summertime Boredom Busters
By: Beth Engelman
S
chool’s out, the sun is shining and your kids are
feeling…bored? Bust boredom before it even begins
with these engaging activities the whole family can
enjoy. Best of all, these activities help promote math,
reading and science so your kids can keep these skills sharp
throughout the summer.
Letterboxing
The closest thing to a real treasure hunt, Letterboxing is
a worldwide scavenger hunt where participants use clues to
search for hidden boxes. Inside each box is a personalized
stamp that seekers can mark in their letterboxing notebook.
Fans of Letterboxing collect stamps from all over their region
while ultimately pursuing more obscure and harder to find
stamps. Sound like a fun? Check out www.letterboxing.org
to learn more about this fascinating and fun activity.
Geocaching
Often referred to as a high-tech game of hide and seek,
Geocaching involves finding “caches” with a series of clues
and a GPS system. The caches usually include a logbook
where you can write about your adventure as well as a trinket
that you can take (as long as you leave a trinket in its place).
An exciting game for families, Geocaching uses math,
reading, and mapping skills and is a wonderful way to work
together as a family. For more information visit:
www.geocaching.com.
Open a Lemonade Stand and Help Find a Cure for
Cancer
Help your kids get into the entrepreneurial spirit while
strengthening their math skills with a timed honored
lemonade stand. Not only will your kids reinforce their
measuring, counting, adding and subtracting skills, but they
will also learn the value of making money, which is always a
valuable lesson. For an added benefit, register your stand
with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, which is a nonprofit organization that donates money to charities dedicated
to finding a cure for cancer. By partnering with this
organization, your young entrepreneurs will learn tips and
tricks for making the stand a success, while having the
satisfaction knowing their hard work will go towards taking
a “stand” against cancer. For more information visit:
http://www.alexslemonade.org.
Make your own Summertime Toys: Sidewalk Chalk and Jumbo Bubbles
Foster reading comprehension skills by encouraging your kids to follow these “recipes” that yield fun in the sun.
Sidewalk Chalk
Jumbo Bubble Wand & Sweet Bubble Solution
You need:
Small paper cups
2 tbsp. powdered tempura paint ~
any color (available at most craft stores)
3 tbsp. Plaster of Paris
(available at most craft stores)
½ cup water
You need: (for wand)
1
wire hanger
You need (for bubbles):
1/2 cup dishwashing liquid
2 cups water
1-2 tsp. sugar
A few drops of food coloring (optional)
Directions
In a paper cup, mix powdered paint and water.
Stir in Plaster of Paris until the mixture is as thick as cream.
Allow the mixture to harden – approx 2 hours.
Peel off the paper cup and take out the chalk.
Repeat for additional chalk pieces.
Directions
To make the wand, stretch the opening of the hanger
into your favorite shape such as a square, circle or my
personal favorite, a “squircle” (half-square, half-circle).
To make the bubble solution, mix ingredients and place
in a shallow pan that is large enough to accommodate the
jumbo bubble wand.
Sun Bread
This recipe is from Elisa Kleven’s wonderful picture book,
Sun Bread (Dutton Children’s Publishing 2001). The story is
about a baker who lifts the spirits of her neighbors and lures
the sun out of hiding with her warm, golden and delicious
bread. The joyful story is filled with lovely rhymes and
beautiful pictures. Ms Kleven has graciously agreed to share
her recipe with us, so be sure to bake a loaf of Sun Bread and
enjoy while reading Ms Kleven’s wonderful book.
You need:
3
eggs
2 tbsp. sugar
2 cups
flour (sifted)
1
stick of butter (softened)
2
packages active dry yeast
3 tbsp. lukewarm milk
Directions
Mix eggs and sugar.
Combine butter and flour.
Add egg mixture to flour mixture and beat well.
In a small bowl, combine yeast and milk and let stand at
least 5 minutes until the mixture is foamy.
Add yeast mixture to the batter and stir. Knead dough on
greased, floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes.
Place dough in greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let
rise in a warm place for about an hour.
Punch down dough, knead for a few minutes, and then
separate into two portions.
To form the sun’s face, shape one portion of dough into a
round, somewhat flattened ball, then place on a large greased
baking sheet. With the greased end of a wooden spoon, or
with your finger, punch two “eyes” in the sun; draw a mouth
for your sun in the same way. (Make sure you make deep lines
and holes in the dough so they won’t close up while the bread
bakes.) Make a nose for your sun by securely attaching a small
ball of dough to its face.
To make a corona for your sun, roll one half of the
remainder of the dough into four or five long “snakes.” Then
curl the snakes into puffy “snail” shapes. Shape the rest of the
dough into puffy triangles. Firmly attach the snails and
triangles to your sun‘s face. (Use a little water if the dough is
too dry.)
Cover the sun and let it rise again in a warm place for
about an hour.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. To make your sun shiny,
brush it with an egg wash (a beaten egg with a few drops of
water added), right before baking. Bake the sun bread for
about twenty minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a
toothpick into center of bread. (It should come out clean.)
Enjoy! Your sun bread is delicious plain or with butter,
honey, or jam.
To find out more about Sun Bread and Elisa Kleven’s other
books visit www.elisakleven.com.
Create a Photo-Gallery in your Home
Expose your children to storytelling through pictures by
creating a photo exhibit in your home. The first step is to get
a disposable camera and then take your children out for a
walk. I recommend a disposable camera because they are
inexpensive and more importantly, they are fairly
indestructible (which is always a plus when dealing with
children). Take a walk around your neighborhood with your
budding photographers and watch their imaginations soar as
they snap away at all the “cool” things they see. You might
even consider taking your children into the city and letting
them photograph the busy streetscapes and skyscrapers.
Once the roll is finished, get the pictures developed and sort
through them with your children, picking out the photos
they like best. Together you and your children can create an
art gallery by mounting their favorite pictures on colored
paper and hanging them on an empty wall. Encourage your
children to name each image just like a professional
photographer. To make the gallery theme even more special
have a “gallery opening” where you invite family and friends
over for a viewing. Be sure to serve refreshments such as
cheese, crackers and faux wine (grape juice).
When Beth Engelman is not trying to bust boredom she is
blogging, taking care of her 4-year-old son or writing her column
for www.pioneerlocal.com called “Mommy on a Shoestring”.
She also hosts the “Mommy on a Shoestring” radio show on the
HerInsight network on www.toginet.com. To find out more
about Beth Engelman visit www.mommyonashoestring.com.
EC
Looking for some more fun activities? Visit
www.edmontonschild.com, where you’ll find “Glue
Sticks and Glitter and Googly Eyes, Oh My!”
WANTED
Stay at home moms who would like to join the
adult world for 3-4 hours per week.
Charlene Garner • Ph. (780) 980-9643
Independent Watkins Associate ID#366055
Offering baby sign language classes for
families, caregivers, and child care providers!
Nicole Sobus
Licensed Instructor,
WeeHands
[email protected]
(780) 452-1070
www.weehands.com/weehands_with_nicole.htm
Occupational Therapy Summer Groups:
a) Speech Pathology & Occupational
Therapy Preschool Group in the Park (SPOT)
b) Printing in the Park
c) Cursive Writing in the Park
d) Engine's Ready? A Self-Regulation Group
All groups are one week in length
(5 consecutive days) for either 1 or 1.5hrs.
For more details contact 780-916-5459
or visit us on the web at
www.mindfulmovementinc.com
EC
summer fun
:
FYI
Arrives in theatres on
July 1, 2010
Air, Water, Earth, Fire. Four nations tied Waterbender, and her brother, Sokka
by destiny when the Fire Nation launches a
( Jackson Rathbone), to restore balance to
brutal war against the others. A century has their war-torn world.
passed with no hope in sight to change the
path of this destruction. Caught between
combat and courage, Aang (Noah Ringer)
Based
on
the
hugely
successful
Nickelodeon animated TV series, the live-
discovers he is the lone Avatar with the action feature film “The Last Airbender” is
power to manipulate all four elements.
the opening chapter in Aang’s struggle to
Aang teams with Katara (Nicola Peltz), a
survive.
E
dmonton’s Child Magazine was very excited to hear
from M. Knight Shyamalan, the critically acclaimed
director of The Last Airbender. Here’s a little bit of
what he had to say…
“What’s easier for you, directing a film where you’ve
already come up with the original concept or directing a
film like “Last Airbender” where someone else has come
up with the concept?”
M.K.S: I think that’s always been the big question for
me…one that has been at the core of decision making. I
think the fear of working on something that’s not mine, like
one day I’m going to wake up and not know how to direct it
or how to tell the story because it wasn’t something that
came out of my own head, has lingered for a while.
And there are so many things inherently in “Airbender”
that are me, the martial arts which are studied for forever and
the kind of Asian influences – the Hinduism, the Buddhism,
all that stuff is, you know, close to me in terms of my
interests. And the empowerment of children, all of that
comes very naturally as a sweet spot, so all of these things
gave me comfort.
That being said, it’s still terrifying to take someone else’s
story and bring it to life because a little bit of it is can you
love it the same way?
“Children always seem to figure predominantly in your
films; why would that be?”
M.K.S: I grew up with Spielberg telling me all his stories,
and I think he kind of came from the pivot point of a 12year-old boy and how that boy saw the world and saw “E.T.”
and “Poltergeist” and I mean, you name it.
It’s always kind of from that narrative point of view and
so it spoke to me because I happen to be 12 when he was
making these movies – 10, 11, 12 - I was his target audience
as he was making films. He hit me right between the eyes
with his story telling.
I think that there is some natural moment of changing as
a human being from kind of a kid whose world can be
anything and anything is possible. The unknown magic – all
of that stuff and becoming a grown-up and letting go of all
those beliefs.
And there’s something really sad about that moment, and
I guess I keep telling stories about the people that don’t let
go of that moment.
“You play, a lot of times, a part in your own films, are
we going to see you on big screen this time?”
M.K.S: I look at this story as a three-part story because
it kind of is. It kind of has a very clear arc over those three
stories and there are thousands of characters.
I kind of have my eye on a tiny little part coming up but
it’s – you won’t see me in the first one.
EC
summer fun
EC
Tips For Travel
WITH KIDS
By: Melanie Risdon-Betcher
W
hen it comes to family travel, if you’re anything
like me, you romanticize what that upcoming
vacation is going to look like.
Here is a list of the most common mistakes parents can
make when installing their child’s seat. (Refer to your
owner’s manual for references to each of these issues)
The truth of the matter, however, is that those vacations
can often be full of stress, grumpy kids and sheer
disappointment.
• A child is in a seat that is inappropriate for his/her
height or weight.
• The seat-belt or Universal Anchorage System is not
properly used or is too loose
• The harness is not snug enough on the child and chest
clip is not up at armpit level.
• The tether strap is loose or not used at all
• The car seat is too old and has past the expiry date that
is stamped on the back side of the seat. (This is illegal
and can lead to a fine).
But don’t unpack those suitcases and cancel the
camping spot just yet! We’ve got some great travel tips for
you to not only make that trip just a little bit more
enjoyable but safer as well.
BEFORE THE TRIP
1
Travel SAFE!!
The most important thing you can do for your pre-trip
preparations is to make sure you have taken all the steps
necessary to ensure your child is safely secured in the right
seat for their height and weight and that their seat is properly
installed.
Every year in Alberta, many children are injured or
killed in motor vehicle collisions. According to Transport
Canada, a correctly used car seat will reduce the likelihood
of your child being injured by 75%. In 2007, 11 737 children
under 15 years of age were injured and 99 of those were
killed.
LaVonne Ries of Keepin’ Baby Safe is a certified
Children’s Restraint Safety Technician (CRST) and has
inspected over 6000 children’s restraint systems.
“Installing a car seat can be a challenging task,” says
Ries, “and not all car seats fit all vehicles.”
“When in doubt,” she suggests, “consult with a (CRST).”
Some of Ries’ safety tips when traveling with children:
• Always refer to the vehicle owner’s manual and car
seat instruction booklet before any installation.
• The safest place for a child’s car seat is in the back seat.
• Never place a car seat in front of an active air bag.
• Refrain from using any after market products that affix
to or interfere with the restraints of the car seat, or go
between the child and their restraints or the child and
their car seat as Transport Canada warns agains. These
can affect the safety of the seat and can cause injury in
the event of a collision.
• In the winter place blankets on top of child opposed to
using bulky clothing that compresses and can lead to
slackness in the restraints.
• Fill out the registration card that comes with your
child’s car seat. The information for registering a car
seat is on a date of manufacturing sticker affixed on
your child’s car seat. This way, the manufacture can
contact you if there is a recall of your specific seat.
FINIS: Wyland Dolphin
The Welcome Wagon Reaches:
• New Residents • Expectant Mothers
• New Mothers • Brides-to-be • New Executives
• Inter-city Relocation • New Businesses
• Job Opportunities Available
With Civic & Business
Information, Gifts & Invitations
1-866-824-7545
To have your business represented or to receive a
Welcome Wagon visit, go to: www.welcomewagon.ca
Tail
a mermaid with this
Your child can become
Dophin Tail is a unique
monofin for swimming.
both feet and secures
monofin that slips onto
strap. Allows child to
with adjustable Velcro
the water. Resembles
swim and play easily in
technique. Available
actual dolphin swimming
rtion of sales goes to
in aqua blue or pink. Po
tion efforts. Available
Wyland’s ocean preserva
nc.com.
for $29.99 at www.finisi
• Check with Transport Canada www.tc.gc.ca or
1800.333.0371 to check up on any recalls.
• Vehicles manufactured before 2001 need a tether
anchor point installed.
2 Plan the trip.
Map your trip so you time out strategic stops for
bathroom and sanity breaks. Kids have short attention spans
and according to Kimberly Eckert, M.Sc., the length of their
attention span depends on their age - anywhere from three to
eight minutes for toddlers and up to 30 to 40 minutes for a
seven year old.
“Toddlers often struggle the most with traveling,”
Eckert warns, adding that they are less distractible yet only
have the capacity of three to eight minutes of focused
attention. She suggests having plenty of age appropriate
activities on hand for your children and to plan for frequent
out of car breaks.
“Parents can expect to need to stop every hour to hour
and a half,” that being for toddlers. She suggests you may be
able to make the stops less frequent (every two to three
hours) for school aged children. GPS systems are great for
checking out upcoming stops. Or map it out before hand
marking off stops on the map that are about 200 to 250
kilometers apart.
If you plan to make most of your trek at night, be sure
your kids will be comfortable and have all their favourite
night time comforts like blankies, pillows, stuffies, etc. While
resting, a proper head support is also important for your
children to not only prevent neck strain but to prevent air
way restriction which leads to oxygen deprivation.
☞
CECCHETTI DANCE THEATRE
Artistic Director: Margaret Dalwood
Dedicated to Excellence
Summer Dance Intensive 2010
ages 3 to Cecchetti Grade 3 • July 12th - 16th
Ballet • Pointe • Jazz
Hip Hop • Ukrainian
Stagecraft 2010
Artist in Residence
Cecchetti Grade 4 to Advanced
July 19th - 30th
Ballet • Pointe • Repertoire
Character • Jazz • Pilates
10330 - 84 Avenue
Edmonton, AB T6E 2G9
(780) 233-2232
www.cecchettidance.com
[email protected]
EC
One option to try is a Head Snuggler. It’s a new take on
a head support, this one providing the support from above,
rather than trying to address if from below.
“When I started using the Head Snuggler,” says Dr. Kyla
Brulotte, a chiropractor and mother of 3, “I was very excited
to see my children sleeping comfortably with properly
aligned spines.”
The Head Snuggler is not only used by chiropractors
but is also backed by a pediatrician and CRST. It’s designed
to hold a child’s head in a neutral position while they rest so
there is no uncomfortable neck strain and no airway
restriction.
“Properly supporting a child’s head in a car seat has
been an issue for parents for many years.” says pediatrician
Dr. Nieman FRCP (C), “I believe [the Head Snuggler]
effectively addresses parent’s concerns and provides children
with a more comfortable experience while resting in their car
seats.”
It’s also important to have healthy snacks on hand, so
kids don’t end up jumping on the “blood sugar” rollercoaster
ride. Nutrition Educator and author Karla Heintz, BSc
Nutrition, has some great fresh ideas for what to stock the
cooler with:
• grape tomatoes
• edamame (green soybeans)
• grapes
• baby carrots
• snap peas
• celery sticks
• red pepper slices
• air popped popcorn (pop in advance)
These next ideas are still healthy but can weigh in a bit
more heavily on the calorie side, so don’t overdo it:
• trail mix
• dried fruit (unsulfered of course)
• nuts/seeds (almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin
seeds, pistachios,etc.)
DURING THE DRIVE
1 Arrange the car so that the things your children will
want and need are easy to access.
2 Be sure to pack the car so your children have room to
move and be comfortable with any cargo safely secured in
case of an accident.
3 Parents, be sure you are taking adequate breaks as well. If
you are feeling tired or irritable, take a break, pull over, have a
rest if it’s possible or just take a breather and get some fresh air.
4 Family travel isn’t going to be that lovely picture you
see in a magazine or commercial, but it doesn’t have to be
awful either. With some good planning it can be a wonderful
adventure for all.
Contributors:
• Karla Heintz, BSc Nutrition – www.nutritionwithk.com
• Kimberly Eckert, M.Sc. - www.eckertcentre.com
And for those who like to convenience of a bar, some of
Karla’s healthy picks include Kashi, the Cliff Bar and Lara Bar.
• Dr. Kyla Brulotte –
• Dr. Peter Nieman FRCP (C), Pediatrician - www.healthykids.ca
• LaVonne Ries – Children’s restraint safety technician (CRST) –
Things to avoid include anything high in sugar, salt or
caffeine.
www.keepinbabysafe.com
Melanie Risdon-Betcher is a full time mom, business owner
and radio personality. She lives in Calgary with her husband and
two children. Founder of Melrose Kids Inc. in 2007, Melanie’s
goal is to design products to make life just a little easier for kids and
parents alike. For more information on the Head Snuggler or how
Melrose Kids Inc. is giving back visit melrosekids.com.
The best part is that it allows your child to go into a
deeper, longer sleep while you enjoy the peace.
EC
3 Stock up for the trip.
Because of children can get restless cooped up in a car
seat, load up on games, books and activities so the kids have
ample to do and don’t end up distracting you with the
nagging question, “are we there yet?” If you have a DVD
player in the car, bring some of your kid’s favorites, but don’t
make the entire trip about staring at a screen for your
children. They need breaks from it as well. Point out the
scenery, play “I Spy” with them, have them change their
focus from time to time to experience their surroundings.
One of those organizers that affixes to the back of the
driver and passenger seats is a great way to organize all of
your kids travel stuff in a handy, easy to reach place.
LAUNCHING SOON...
SPONSORED BY:
The
REWARD
THE
READER Program
The Reward the Reader program will provide teachers
with exciting new materials to make literacy more fun
and engaging for their students. Geared for preschool
to grade 3, this new program will provide online
resources for teachers to get their students reading,
with exciting rewards provided by Kidz Quarterz.
Making reading fun and easy for students... and teachers too!
Watch our websites Fall 2010 for updates:
www.edmontonschild.com
www.kidzquarterz.ca
© 2010 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends and Thomas & Friends are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited. © 2010 HIT Entertainment Limited. HIT and the HIT logo are trademarks of HIT Entertainment Limited.
summer fun
When our bodies go without enough oxygen for too
long our oxygen saturation levels drop in our blood;
thankfully, though, our bodies are programmed to prompt us
to consciousness so we don’t actually suffocate. This is a
great self defense mechanism, however, it’s not the best
situation when you are wanting your child to get a good
sleep. If they are slumped in their seat, their airway will be
restricted, thus they will not be able to get the full rest they
need.
summer fun
EC
SIMPLE DECISIONS
Help Save Wildlife
By: Caroline Barlott
W
hen litter collects on roadsides, the city looks
unkempt, and uncared for; but stray trash is not
just a matter of esthetics, it can actually kill many
wildlife animals that come across it. Every year, the Wildlife
Rehabilitation Society of Edmonton (WRSE) sees many
cases of animals that have been injured as a result of litter.
One time, a nest was brought to the WRSE and the tiny
baby birds within it were all tied together with string. The
mother bird had used the string to help build the nest and it
had wound around the babies, connecting them like
members of an innocent chain gang. Staff carefully cut the
string from their vulnerable bodies.
Litter thrown from cars is particularly dangerous for birds
of prey, according to Stephanie May, Animal Care Manager
and Community Outreach Coordinator for the WRSE. Mice
are attracted to the garbage and birds, like owls chase after
them, often resulting in very serious injuries from collisions
with cars. “The owl swoops down to make the catch, but
instead of catching supper, [it] gets hit by the oncoming
traffic,” explains Stephanie.
A Great Horned Owl was once brought to the wildlife
shelter with an eye injury and a fractured clavicle, and the
injuries suggested it’d been hit by a car, according to
Stephanie. For nearly three weeks, he remained in a small
enclosure, which gave his chest fracture the chance to heal.
He made a full recovery, having eaten ten percent of his
body weight in mice every day. As he progressed, he was
moved to an outdoor flight pen where he worked on getting
his strength back. After 25 days at the shelter, he was
released in the river valley to the relief and excitement of
staff and volunteers.
Over the years, the shelter staff have seen many sad
stories, including cases of lead poisoning resulting from lead
fishing weights that sometimes litter the bottom of lake
floors and can be ingested by fish. Food chain poisoning
happens when a predator like a Bald Eagle eats a fish that has
consumed a lead weight. Toxins collect in the bird’s fat
reserves and when the animal begins to use the energy, it
becomes very sick. These birds sometimes find themselves
unable to migrate at the end of the season with the rest of
their flock. Lead bullets also create food chain poisoning—
presents
when animals are killed with lead bullets, a predator may
scavenge on the corpse and become sick.
While staff say it’s very sad to see a Bald Eagle suffer from
lead poisoning, or a Great Horned Owl that’s been hit by a
car, they also know people can make positive changes. And
young people are a huge part of the solution.
The WRSE runs free programs for school children,
educating them about proper ways to interact with wildlife.
The fourth grade, ‘Litter, Wildlife and My Community’
program, is a joint venture with Capital City Clean Up,
empowering children to understand the huge difference they
can make in their environment.
Sitting at the front of a classroom, Stephanie May holds
a container full of the type of litter often found on the side
of a road. Pop can rings, pieces of string, and an empty jar are
pulled one by one from the box—a child raises his hand and
explains that the rings can be caught on a bird’s head causing
serious problems or can become wrapped around a baby
mammal’s foot, making it hard for the animal to move and
find food.
According to Stephanie, the program makes a lasting
impression on the students. Children ask many wellthought-out questions and remember the presentations in
detail as evidenced by the elaborate thank you notes
decorating the wildlife shelter’s entrance. And she’s excited
by the implications of the children’s enthusiasm; many of
them feel connected to their environment and have learned
specific ways they can make a difference. They keep the
Junior Wildlife Ambassador card with them so they will
know who to call if they run across an animal in trouble.
Every spring, students can participate in Capital City
Clean Up’s School Yard Clean Up program, picking up litter,
and knowing their efforts will prevent wildlife injuries. At
home, children can continue to be involved in conservation
efforts and their interest in the environment can be
encouraged through projects such as: recycling, volunteering
to clean up their neighbourhood or nearby parks, helping in
the garden, helping to compost, researching information
about their favourite animal, working on art projects related
to wildlife, writing short stories about wildlife encounters,
and sharing their knowledge with others.
Once individuals make a connection between our
actions as humans and the effect of these actions on the
eco-system, they are empowered to make positive changes.
And it’s especially exciting to know these changes can be
simple and easy. Deciding to stop littering can make the
difference between life and death for wildlife.
The Wildlife Rehabilitation Society of Edmonton is a nonprofit organization that treats over 1,000 wildlife patients and
educates over 5,000 students every year. The WRS relies on
donations to be able to care for injured wildlife. For more
information, please see: wildlife-edm.ca.
EC
Summer Dance
Workshop
August 17th, 18th & 19th, 2010
Sandra Gray School of Dancing
4638 - 99 St., Edmonton
(Letourneau Centre)
Download a registration form at:
www.sandragrayschoolofdancing.com
email: [email protected]
or call 780-437-5312
Great line up of instructors in Tap, Jazz, Lyrical,
Contemporary, Ballet & Musical Theatre
from Los Angeles, & New York,
plus 3rd street beat.
Sept.
p 11 ~ 10 am - 6 pm & Sept. 12 ~ 10 am - 5 pm
Millennium Place • 2000 Premier Way, Sherwood Park, AB
Admission: Adult ~ $3.00 • 16 & Under ~ FREE
Live Entertainment & Face Painting
The Tiny Tots Expo will be the
perfect outing for the whole family!
www.thetinytotsexpo.com
www
thetinytotsexpo com
ATTENTION EXHIBITORS: space is still available.
Please contact Jay for details at 780-297-7101
EC
summer fun
Summer Vacation without
ADHD
By: Kristina Rikunova
Meds?
S
chool’s out, the weather is warm and you’ve got a
summer full of fun planned for the whole family. With
so much time spent planning day-trips, vacations, play
dates and getting organized for camp, one essential detail
may have been overlooked. Summer is a time when parents
may decide to give their child a break from ADHD
medication, but how can you tell whether a “drug holiday”
makes sense for your child?
A common misconception is that ADHD is a disorder
that only affects the child in the classroom. An important
consideration is to see which of the three ADHD behaviours
affects your child - impulsivity, inattention, hyperactivity, or
a combination. Consider the types of settings, activities and
interactions your child will be engaged in this summer as
well as your expectations for their behavior. Now ask
yourself – will my child’s behaviour interfere with their
ability to succeed in the planned activities or put them at risk
for getting in trouble? If the answer is yes, a “drug holiday”
may not be a good option.
Laura Valta is the mother of a nine and a half year old boy
that has been on ADHD medication for nearly six years. For
her family, a drug holiday is not an option. “ADHD is a
condition that affects every facet of a child’s life, even
outside the classroom. It doesn’t make sense to take away the
tools that help the child learn, grow and succeed,” says Valta.
“By taking him off the medication, it gives the impression to
the child that the medication is optional”.
When a child is off of their ADHD medication, his or her
symptoms may not be under control during those times. A
child that mainly has trouble maintaining attention may not
have as noticeable of a reaction if taken off the medication,
as those skills may not be as needed in the summer.
However, a child that struggles with impulsivity and
hyperactivity may have trouble in the summer as his or her
behavior can hinder social interaction, relationships, and
ability to participate in structured activities such as
attending camp.
Quite often, parents looking to give their children a drug
holiday are responding to side-effects the child may be
having from their medication such as a lack of appetite
and/or insomnia. Medical experts believe that finding the
most effective treatment option should be the overall goal
for any family struggling to manage ADHD. “The popular
misconception is that all medications are bad for us,” says Dr.
Szpindel, an expert in ADHD. “However, our medications
H
[
Đ
ů
Žƚ
Śŝ
ŶŐ
:$51,
1*
are becoming safer and more effective at treating conditions
like ADHD. With the treatment options available today,
medications included, there is no reason for any child to
settle for less than their very best.”
While no single treatment option works for every
individual, there are a variety of treatment options available
in Canada including long-lasting medications such as
Vyvanse, stimulants such as Ritalin, Aderrall and Concerta
and non-stimulants such as Stratera. Alternative therapies
such as counseling can also prove to be effective at managing
the symptoms of ADHD. It’s best to speak with your
healthcare provider to see what treatment option would be
best for your child.
As the days continue to grow warmer and summer plans
appear on the horizon, a conversation with your child’s
physician can help to ensure that this summer is a fun, safe
and healthy time for the whole family.
Kristina Rikunova is a public relations practitioner in the
healthcare sector. Kristina is experienced in working with ADHD
and learning disability awareness campaigns.
,
W
¶
V
(DV
\
%UL
QJ
L
Q
\RXU
RO
G
FO
RW
KHV
5HFHL
YH
D
FUHGL
W
8V
H
\RXU
FUHGL
W
3O
HDV
H
H[FKDQJH
U
HV
SRQV
L
EO
\
H[FHV
V
H[FKDQJHV
PD\
FDXV
H
\RXU
I
DFH
W
R
KDYH
D
SHU
PDQHQW
V
PL
O
H
V
DYH
O
RW
V
RI
PRQH\
DQG
O
RRN
I
DQW
DV
W
L
F
I
RU
FKHDS
ǁǁǁ͘
Ğ
ǆ
Ͳ
Đ
ů
Žƚ
Śŝ
ŶŐ
͘
Đ
Žŵ
EC
ƚ
ƌ
Ă
ĚĞ
ƵƉΛĞ
ǆ
Ͳ
Đ
ů
Žƚ
Śŝ
ŶŐ
͘
Đ
Žŵ
*R
V
KRSSL
QJ
ϳϴϬ͘
ϱϬϰ͘
ϲϴϬϴ
EC
summer fun
Be Water Smart
And Have a Splashin, Good Time
By: Erin McCarty
T
he Lifesaving Society would like to see you get caught
wearing your lifejacket to buy yourself some time if
you end up in the water. Most of the people who die
in boating incidents drown within a few feet of safety. Our
most recent statistics from 2008 show that of those who
drowned, many had a lifejacket or PFD close at hand but
were not wearing it when they died (42 per cent of Albertans
and 100 per cent of people from the Northwest Territories).
Teaching your child to be Water Smart® is the first step
to ensure they have a safe experience around the water.
“Children relate to water in terms of fun experiences.
They need to understand that even fun experiences require
rules and safety equipment,” says Barbara Kusyanto, Chief
Administrative Officer at the Lifesaving Society Alberta and
Northwest Territories.
“When you put them on their bike, their helmet goes on.
If they’re around the water, they need to be wearing a
lifejacket. You have to model these Water Smart principles
to them.”
Statistics from 2008 also reveal that eight of the total 44
Alberta drowning incidents occurred in dugouts or
reservoirs. These incidents accounted for 18 per cent of all
2008 drowning incidents. Supervision of children, at any
age, while they are around the water is vital to their safety.
Enrolling your children in Swim for Life® and Swim to
Survive® programs at an appropriate age will teach them
swim survival skills they need to stay safe around the water.
Follow the Society’s top ten Water Smart tips to stay
safe and have fun this summer:
1 Always swim with a buddy and be each other’s
lifeguard. Friends and family can challenge poor risk choices
or help rescue each other. Forty-seven per cent of drowning
victims were alone.
2 If you are not Within Arms’ Reach, you’ve gone too
far. Always closely supervise young children. Be your child’s
lifeguard.
3 Alcohol and aquatic activities don’t mix. Alcohol
impairs your judgment and ability to self rescue. Wait until
you are finished your aquatic activities for the day and will
not be going back in the water or out on your boat.
4 Swim at a marked swimming beach. Go to a marked
swimming area and keep within the boundaries. Non
swimmers should wear a lifejacket or PFD (personal flotation
device) in the water. Floating toys require close supervision.
Also beware of special hazards such as currents and offshore
winds that can quickly carry toys and swimmers outside the
swimming area.
5 Choose a facility with a lifeguard. Less than one per
cent of drowning incidents occur at facilities with NLS
trained and certified lifeguards. Lifeguards are injury
prevention experts. They help provide safe, fun
environments where you can enjoy the water.
6 Do not tempt moving water. Do not enter moving
water to swim. Stay away from the river edge especially if the
river bank has a steep slope. One missed step can result in a
quick slide into the water. If you get caught in the current,
do not fight it. Aim slightly down stream and swim across the
current to shore. Wait until you can crawl onto shore to
stand up.
7 Choose It. Use It. - Wear your PFD and insist that
everyone in your boat wear one. Wearing a PFD while
boating is a Water Smart choice that can help protect against
hypothermia and help the boater rescue himself during an
incident such as falling overboard. Don’t forget weather
specific gear such as sunscreen, sunglasses and Get caught
wearing your lifejacket this summer, be Water Smart and
have fun!
☞
EC
8 Swim to Survive®. Enrolling your children in
programs like this will teach them the swim self-rescue skills
they need. These skills include: the ability to roll into the
water and recover after an unexpected fall; the ability to
tread water for one minute and support their head above
water; and the ability to swim 50 m, so they are able to swim
to safety.
AADAC Help Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-866-332-2322
Alberta Mental Health Board,
Edmonton Mental Health Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-427-4444
Capital Health Link:
24-hour information and advice on all health
related concerns including illness, prenatal,
and postpartum questions and concerns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-408-LINK (5465)
Capital Health – Community Sector
(Public Health Centres – general inquiries) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-413-7900
9 Drive your boat responsibly and follow the rules of
the road. Kayaking, canoeing, and power boating can be
fun but also dangerous. Keep low to avoid capsizing or
falling overboard. Be courteous to others using the
waterways and obey all boating rules. It is now law in
Alberta to have a Pleasure Craft Operator (PCO) Card
when operating motor-powered water crafts. The Lifesaving
Society BOAT™ (Boat Operator Accredited Training)
course teaches safe boating practices including the “rules of
the road,” safety equipment requirements and safe operating
skills.
Child Abuse Hotline (24 hours) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-387-KIDS (5437)
Child & Family Services Authority (Child Welfare) . . . . . . . 780-422-2001
City of Edmonton Community Services
Assessment & Short-term Counselling
We can help with such concerns as: Daily life stresses, issues with dating,
marital or partner relationships, problems with family parenting challenges,
abuse or violence in the family. To Speak Privately With A
Professional Social Worker Call: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-496-4777
Community Service Referral Line
Edmonton and surrounding area (Information
about available community services) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-482-INFO (4636)
10 Know before you go! Check the weather and
create a simple safety checklist. Avoid storm conditions
and get off the water if you spot a storm coming – one third
of dead boaters did not. Create a simple safety checklist
which includes checking the weather, checking safety
equipment, your route and water conditions, tools and fuel,
and boat condition. Tell someone where you are going and
when to expect you back.
211 Edmonton (Information about available
community services - Edmonton only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Distress Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-482-HELP (4357)
24-hour telephone support and referral service
Edmonton Gleaners Association (Food Bank) . . . . . . . . . . . 780-425-4190
Family Support for Children with Disabilities . . . . . . . . . . . 780-427-4354
Food Safety Information Society
Mon to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-892-8333
The Lifesaving Society, Canada’s lifeguarding experts, is a
national charity working to prevent drowning and water-related
injury. We save lives and prevent injury through our training
programs, Water Smart® public education, water incident
research, aquatic safety management, and lifesaving sport. For
more information about the Lifesaving Society, visit our website
at www.lifesaving.org.
HEARTS (Helping Empty Arms Recover Through Sharing)
Support for pregnancy loss;
a program of Parent’s Place. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-464-3217
EC
Kidsafe Connection (childhood injury prevention) . . . . . . . . . . 780-407-7250
Kids Help Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-668-6868
Website . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . kidshelp.sympatico.ca
Kids Kottage Foundation – Crisis Nursery
24-hour child care for parents in crisis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780- 944-2888
La Leche League (Breastfeeding Support) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-478-0507
Mental Health Children’s Crisis Response Line . . . . . . . . . . 780-427-4491
Mental Health Adult Crisis Response Team (24 hours) . . . . 780-482-0222
Missing Children Society of Canada
An organization dedicated to the search for
abducted and runaway children. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-661-6160
Parent Help Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-888-603-9100
Website . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . parentsinfo.sympatico.ca
Poison and Drug Information Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-332-1414
Warehouse Help
Ronald McDonald House
A home away from home for out of town families
with seriously ill children in Edmonton hospitals . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-439-5437
Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-423-4121
Suicide Prevention Line (The Salvation Army) . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-429-0230
Looking to get back into the workforce? Enjoy your summers off and come be a
part of a team that focuses on balance and understands your life outside of work!
Scholastic Canada Ltd., the leading children’s book publisher in Canada, is
currently seeking full-time and part-time Warehouse Clerks for the Edmonton
Book Fair branch. We are seeking energetic individuals who will be responsible
for the picking and packaging of book fair orders in a timely and efficient manner.
Duties include preparing orders for shipping, controlling inventory, unloading and
shelving stock and pricing, as well as some housekeeping duties. Moderate to
heavy lifting is required – between 20-35 lbs.
The ideal candidate has three years of high school education along with six
months of previous work experience. Attention to detail and the ability to be a
team player are also requirements of this position. Applicants must be able to
work a minimum of 15 hours per week.
Interested applicants are to forward a copy of their resume, to: Scholastic Book
Fairs, Scholastic Canada Ltd., 5530-48 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T6B 2Z1
Fax: 780-466-3940 E-mail: [email protected]
We wish to thank all candidates for their applications in advance and advise that only those
selected for an interview will be contacted. No telephone calls or agencies please.
www.scholastic.ca
Teen Suicide Prevention (Tues to Sat, 3:30 to 11 pm) . . . . . . 780-412-2747
Terra Association
Prenatal information and parenting
assistance for teenage parents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-428-3772
The Salvation Army Community and Family Services
Offers assistance to families including counseling
and an emergency food depot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-424-9222
The Salvation Army Teen Support Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-877-803-8336
Strathcona Sexual Assault Centre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-449-0900
St. Albert Family & Community Support Services . . . . . . . . 780-459-1756
St. Albert Stop Abuse In Families (SAIF) Society
Our aim is to send the message that family violence and bullying
will not be tolerated in our community. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-460-2195
St. Albert Youth Community Centre
(for youth in Grades 7- age 17) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-418-1802
The Support Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-482-0198
Walk-in counseling. Free drop-in solution-focused therapy; call for hours.
Victims Assistance Program (Family Violence) . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-422-0721
Shelters (all 24 hour access)
A Safe Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-464-7233
Kids Kottage (crisis care nursery) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-944-2888
Lurana Shelter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-424-5875
Safehouse (street kids ages 13 to 19 who are at risk) . . . . . . . . . 780-474-9938
WIN House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-479-0058
Women’s Emergency Accommodation Centre . . . . . . . . . . . 780-423-5302
Youth Emergency Shelter Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 780-468-7070
summer fun
Help is Just a Phone
Call Away!
You can have high blood pressure and not even know it.
You can’t see or feel it. There are no symptoms – so get checked!