ok parent mag 2011_12.pdf - Kelowna Child Care Society

Parents at 

Play 

TAKE A 

Road Trip 

with your Baby 

Marketing 

& Children 

Fun at the 

Farmer’s Market 

Change 

the way you 

Shop

14th ANNUAL EDITION _2011/12 • Kelowna Child Care Society 

President’s 

Message 

by Kim Chernenkoff 

The Kelowna Child Care Society is 

proud to bring you the 2011/2012 

Okanagan Parent Magazine. The 

Society would like to thank all of the 

CCRR staff, Terry Varga and Lori 

Johnson for all the hard work to 

organize the 14th annual addition of 

this excellent resource for families in 

the Central Okanagan. A special thank 

you to all the local businesses and 

organizations who continue to support 

the society and enable us to produce 

and distribute this magazine. 

On behalf of the Society I hope you 

find this publication a valuable resource 

for you and your family. 

The Okanagan Parent Magazine is published once a year by the 

Kelowna Child Care Society and distributed free of charge to the 

Central Okanagan. For more information contact the Kelowna 

Child Care Society at #4 - 1890 Ambrosi Road, Kelowna, B.C. V1Y 

4R9, by telephone 250-762-3536, by fax 250-861-1299 or by email 

at resource@kelownachildcare.com. 

The articles contained in this publication represent the findings 

and opinions of the respective authors and do not necessarily 

represent or reflect the opinions of the Kelowna Child Care 

Society. The articles contained herein are intended for 

information purposes only. Readers with any particular concerns 

should seek proper advice before acting.The Kelowna Child Care 

Society will not be held liable for any inaccuracies or 

misrepresentations contained in any of the articles herein. Any 

questions can be directed to the respective authors or contact 

the Kelowna Child Care Society at 250-762-3536. 

COVER PHOTO BY ELIZABETH SOERGEL PHOTOGRAPHY 

GRAPHIC DESIGN BY LORI JOHNSON 

PRINTING BY PREMIER PRINTING 

Contents 

EverydayWays to Teach Children 

Manners & Social Skills by Karen Stephens ................................................. 5 

Getting along with others opens doors. 

Literacy on the Go! by Ashley Machum............................................................ 7 

Keep them reading by helping your children to set a summer reading goal. 

Taking a Road Trip withYour Baby by Elizabeth Pantley............................. 8 

How can you make the trip enjoyable with a baby along? 

Order From the Start by Shannon M. Medisky............................................... 11 

Teaching children ways to create order in their 

daily lives, which will assist them in the future. 

Parents at Play by Betsy Mann.......................................................................... 13 

Enter the world of fun with your children! 

Child Care Options Map ........................................................................... 16 

Moving Day by Karen Stephens.......................................................................... 19 

Moves can broaden children’s experiences and introduce them to greater diversity. 

Take Ten for Fun by Lisa Robinson.................................................................... 21 

Take a moment to celebrate the little things. 

Change theWayYou Shop by Traci Savel...................................................... 24 

Use coupons wisely! 

Fun at the Farmer’s Market by Kia Robertson ............................................. 26 

Let your children meet the people who locally produce the food they eat. 

Marketing and Children by Amanda Turner ................................................. 28 

Showing children that following the crowd 

is not as important as they think it is. 

Open from 

September to 

the end of 

June. 

You are eligible for our day care program if you 

attend Kelowna Secondary School with children 

under the age of three, are a parent attending 

an educational program within School District 

No. 23 or are a returning parent continuing 

your post-secondary education 

(subject to space availability). 

Four reserved day care spaces are also available 

for employees of School District No. 23. 

We are a Group Infant/Toddler Daycare licenced 

for 24 children from 6 weeks to 3 years of age. 

Contact the day care co-ordinator to check if openings 

are available and to arrange for an interview. 

Program of the 

Day Care & Parenting Support for 

Young Parents Continuing 

Their Education 

LOCATED AT: Kelowna Secondary School 

250-868-1377 

Call 250-762-3536 for child care information. 3

Kelowna Child Care Society • 2011/12 _14th ANNUAL EDITION 

4 Celebrating 34 years of Community Service in the Central Okanagan!


Everyday Ways to Teach Children 

Manners & Social Skills 

by Karen Stephens 

Being mannerly is a social skill parents help children master - 

it’s an important one.The knack of cordially getting along with 

others opens doors of opportunity, which stay closed to kids who 

act inconsiderate or in offensive ways. 

Mannerly kids are preferred playmates; and they’re more 

often invited to homes of friends, relatives, and neighbors. 

Children need a caring community of people to build self esteem 

and a sense of belonging. 

At the heart of children’s social relationships is their ability to 

maintain self-respect, while at the same time extending respect 

to others. It’s fundamental. Only when respect is demonstrated 

through acts does it make a difference. 

Teaching manners gives children a way to put respect into 

action. These manners must be sincere, heartfelt, and wellintentioned. 

Authentic respect involves far more than superficial 

words that children hurriedly spout off to appease an adult’s 

upraised eyebrow. 

An insincere, unfeeling “please” or “thank you” or “I’m 

sorry” rings hollow. Commanding children to apologize on cue 

teaches unthinking compliance and hypocrisy, not true respect. 

Even if children use the “magic word,” the word is only magic 

when it’s authentic and sincerely felt. Honest manners and 

genuine acts of respect build integrity and more easily reach 

another person’s heart. 

To develop respect for others, children must learn to consider 

and value others’ viewpoints as well as their own. Being able to 

take another’s perspective is a skill children gradually acquire. As 

brain development progresses, and children gain social 

experience through play and daily routines, they develop a 

remarkable capacity to consider other peoples’ needs, wants, and 

desires. 

We best teach manners by our own consistent example. Only 

if we practice what we preach can we be credible role models. 

Here’s a revealing example: 

I was running errands with a four year old I’ll callVeronica. I 

quickly noticed shopkeepers greeted Veronica by name. At each 

stop, she ended up in a friendly conversation. Her comfort with 

these people, and their pleasure in chatting with her, was 

unmistakable. 

As we progressed, a pattern emerged.A shopkeeper looked up 

and said “hello.” Veronica returned the look and brightly 

responded,“Hi, How ya doin’?” in an engaging, neighborly lilt 

that was hard to resist. 

Veronica had learned how to exchange greetings. And she 

learned to be thoughtful and courteous by asking about others’ 

welfare. Her openness invited shopkeepers’ interest, and thus 

friendships bloomed. As a result,Veronica felt safe and accepted. 

She came to trust that adults liked her and had her best interests 

at heart - a luxury for kids these days. 

How did this four year old develop such polite social skills? A 

few days later I ran into her grandmother downtown. We both 

walked into the same store. As we entered, the first thing 

grandma did was call out to the shopkeeper, ”Hi, How ya doin’?” 

She had the exact neighborly inflection asVeronica. 

Yes, a socially skilled elder had shown the mannerly way by 

example. This helped Veronica participate more fully in her 

community. And yes, her good manners were commented upon. 

Respectful behavior is rarely taken for granted, especially in 

children. 

There are many other ways to nurture kids’ manners. When 

you invite children over to play with your child, provide enough 

toys to share easily; too few fuels conflict. If tug-of-wars do 

erupt, be on hand to help children problem solve.That may mean 

breaking a crayon in half to share or finding a new way to play 

the same game. Of course, it’s normal for children to have spats 

from time to time.After the tense feelings subside, help children 

think of ways to make amends. Perhaps that is saying they are 

sorry, but not always. Actions can speak louder than words. 

Sometimes amends can be made by drawing a friend a picture, 

or giving them a flower - or even a hug. And if a toy has been 

broken, repairing or replacing the toy is a very mannerly, 

responsible gesture. 

Whenever children are helped by someone, coach them in 

politeness. Remind them that people feel appreciated when 

thanked, whether with gestures or gifts. Social graces also take 

root when children send thank you pictures and cards to those 

who have been kind to them. 

Teach children to respect neighbors’ property. If a child wants 

an apple from the tree next door, require them to ask for 

permission. Before they cut through a neighbor’s yard, have 

them ask if it’s okay. 

Home celebrations for relatives or friends provide teachable 

moments for manners, too. Children can easily learn to be 



gracious hosts. Explain that people feel welcomed when we 

make preparations ahead of time for them. What kinds of 

preparations would the kids like to make? Help children 

anticipate their guests’ needs. For instance, who should greet 

guests? How will guests know where to put their coats? What 

kind of food or games might their guests like? 

The routine of meals together around a table provides many 

opportunities for kids to practice social graces. Create a mealtime 

atmosphere that allows conversation. It strengthens family 

relationships and develops manners children will put to good use 

when dining at a restaurant or friend’s house. 

Of course, teaching basic table manners is an ongoing 

experience at meals. Calmly remind kids you’ll listen when they 

don’t have food in their mouths. If your child points and grunts 

at food, matter-of-factly say, “Please tell me what you’d like and 

I'll pass it.” If a child demands peas by yelling, candidly reply 

you’re more eager to help when asked to pass food in a 

courteous voice. 

Reinforcement and encouragement are valuable teaching 

tools. When a child is mannerly, comment on the specific 

behavior you want to encourage. When your child gives a 

helping hand, compliment their cooperation: 

“How courteous of you to hold the door open when I bring 

in groceries.Thanks, hon.” 

When children help with household chores, such as fixing 

supper, acknowledge their contribution. Express your 

appreciation when your child waits patiently after you’ve asked 

them not to interrupt a conversation. 

Through these everyday experiences, children will gradually 

learn respectful manners - and many other wonderful traits will 

surface as well such as: kindness, helpfulness, patience, 

cooperation, thoughtfulness, politeness, consideration, honesty, 

altruism, graciousness, compassion, empathy, and gentleness. 

Together they’ll combine to give your child the skills necessary 

to participate more easily in family life and the life of the larger 

community. 

KAREN STEPHENS IS DIRECTOR OF ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY CHILD CARE CENTER AND INSTRUCTOR 

IN CHILD DEVELOPMENT FOR THE ISU FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES DEPARTMENT. FOR NINE 

YEARS SHE WROTE A WEEKLY PARENTING COLUMN IN HER LOCAL NEWSPAPER.KAREN IS AUTHOR OF 

TWO BOOKS AND FREQUENT CONTRIBUTOR TO CHILD CARE INFORMATION EXCHANGE. 

 



Literacy on the Go 

by Ashley Machum 

Hitting the road for a family vacation? 

• Read road signs along the way 

• Hand over the map to the kids so they can help navigate 

• Listen to audiobooks during the drive (available on CD or for 

download at ORL) 

Sending the kids to summer camp? 

• Pack a surprise book or magazine in their luggage 

• Include letter writing supplies for them to write home 

Summer Reading for 6-12yr: 

• Some Dogs Do by Jez Alborough 

• Beware of the Frog by William Bee 

• Pete the Cat I Love MyWhite Shoes by Eric Litwin 

• Emily’s Fortune by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor 

Summer reading for 13-18yr: 

•The Hunchback Assignments by Arthur Slade 

• House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer 

• Word Nerd by Susin Nielsen 

• Fablehaven by Brandon Mull 

ASHLEY MACHUM,YOUTH SERVICES LIBRARIAN AT THE KELOWNA BRANCH OF 

THE OKANAGAN REGIONAL LIBRARY WWW.ORL.BC.CA/BRANCHES/KELOWNA 

250-762-2800 AMACHUM@ORL.BC.CA 

 

Summer is a busy time for families in the Okanagan.Trips to 

the beach, summer camps, family vacations and eating popsicles 

keep everyone on the go. In all the excitement do not let reading 

get left behind! After a full school year kids adore their freedom 

during the summer months. Keep them reading by helping your 

children to set a summer reading goal. All 29 branches of the 

Okanagan Regional Library offer a free Summer Reading Club 

that can aid in the tracking of their reading progress and keep 

them motivated. Keep the freedoms of summer rolling by 

allowing them to choose what they read and when they read. 

Graphic novels, magazines, nonfiction books and audiobooks are 

awesome alternatives to traditional chapter books. 

Incorporate opportunities for learning and creativity 

through some of these literacy based 

activities while you are on the go this 

summer. 

Taking a trip to the beach? 

• Bring a blanket and some books for 

a storytime picnic 

• Practice spelling or play word games 

by writing in the sand 



Taking a Road Trip with Your Baby 

by Elizabeth Pantley, Author of Gentle Baby Care 

To Grandmother’s house we go! And you’ll be in the car for 

five whole hours - how can you make the trip enjoyable with a 

baby along? 

Learn about it 

There’s no question: Marathon car trips with a baby on board 

take a good amount of planning and organization. But it can be 

done - and yes, it can even be fun! 

Planning the trip 

In the hustle that precedes a trip, it can be easy to let things 

happen, instead of make things happen. Be proactive in making 

your trip decisions. Contemplating these questions, and coming 

up with the right answers, can help make your trip more 

successful: 

• Does your baby sleep well in the car? If yes, plan your travel 

time to coincide with a nap or bedtime so your baby can sleep 

through part of the journey. If not, plan to leave immediately 

after a nap or upon waking in the morning. Don’t fool yourself 

into thinking your baby will behave differently than usual in 

the car just because it’s a special occasion. 

• Is it necessary to make the trip all at once, or can you break it 

up with stops along the way?The longer your baby is strapped 

in the carseat, the more likely he’ll become fussy. Planning a 

few breaks can keep everyone in a better frame of mind. 

• When estimating an arrival time, have you factored in plenty 

of extra time for unplanned surprises? A diaper explosion that 

requires a complete change of clothes or a baby whose inconsolable 

crying requires an unexpected 20-minute stop are just 

two of the things that can easily happen. 

• Do you have everything you need to make the trip pleasant? 

Items like: 

- Window shades to protect your baby from the sun and 



Car travel checklist 

■✓ Well-stocked diaper bag 

■✓ Baby’s blanket 

■✓ Carseat pillow or head support 

■✓ Window shades (sun screens) 

■✓ Change of clothes for your baby 

■✓ Enormous box of toys and books 

■✓ Music or books on tape or CDs 

■✓ Baby food, snacks, and drinks for your baby 

■✓ Sipper cups 

■✓ Snacks and drinks for the adults 

■✓ Cooler 

■✓ Wet washcloths in bags, or moist towelettes 

■✓ Empty plastic bags for leftovers and trash 

■✓ Bottle warmer 

■✓ Cell phone 

■✓ Baby’s regular sleep music or white 

noise (if needed, bring extra batteries) 

■✓ First aid kit/prescriptions/medications 

■✓ Jumper cables 

■✓ Money/wallet/purse/ID 

■✓ Medical and insurance information/ 

emergency phone numbers 

■✓ Maps/driving directions 

■✓ Baby carrier/sling/stroller 

■✓ Camera and film 

■✓ Suitcases 

create a darker, nap-inducing atmosphere. 

- A cooler for cold drinks; a bottle warmer if needed. 

- Plenty of toys that are new or forgotten favorites saved just for the trip. 

- Baby-friendly music on tape or CD. 

-A rear-view baby mirror to keep on eye on baby (unless 

a second person will be sitting with your little one.) 

- Books to read to your baby. 

Preparing the car 

Take plenty of time to get the car ready for your trip. If 

two adults are traveling, consider yourself lucky and arrange for one person to sit in 

the backseat next to the baby. If you are traveling alone with your little one, you’ll 

need to be more creative in setting up the car, and you’ll need to plan for more 

frequent stops along the way. Here are some tips for making the car a traveling 

entertainment center for your baby: 

• Use ribbon or yarn and safety pins or tape to hang an array of lightweight toys 

from the ceiling of the car to hang over your baby. An alternative is to string a 

line from one side of the car to the other with an array of toys attached by 

ribbons. Bring along an assortment of new toys that can be exchanged when you 

stop the car for a rest. Just be sure to use small toys and keep them out of the 

driver’s line of view. 

• Tape brightly colored pictures of toys on the back of the seat that your baby will 

be facing. 

• If no one will be sitting next to your baby and your child is old enough to reach 

for toys, set up an upside-down box next to the car seat with a shallow box or a 

tray with ledges on top of it. Fill this with toys that your baby can reach for by 

himself. You might also shop around for a baby activity center that attaches 

directly to the carseat. 

• If you plan to have someone sitting next to baby, then provide that person with 



a gigantic box of toys with which to entertain the little one - 

distraction works wonders to keep a baby happy in the car. One 

of the best activities for long car rides is book reading. Check 

your library’s early reading section; it typically features a large 

collection of baby-pleasing titles in paperback that are 

easier to tote along than board books. 

• Bring along an assortment of snacks and drinks for 

your older baby who’s regularly eating solids, and 

remember to bring food for yourself, too. Even if you 

plan to stop for meals, you may decide to 

drive on through if your baby is sleeping 

or content - saving the stops for fussy times. 

• Bring books on tape or quiet music for the 

adults for times when your baby is sleeping. The 

voice on tape may help keep your baby relaxed, and it will 

be something you can enjoy. 

• If you’ll be traveling in the dark, bring along a battery-operated 

nightlight or flashlight. 

During the journey 

If you’ve carefully planned your trip and prepared your 

vehicle, you’ve already started out on the right foot. Now keep 

these things in mind as you make your way down the road: 

• Be flexible. When traveling with a baby, even the best-laid plans 

can be disrupted. Try to stay relaxed, accept changes, and go 

with the flow. 

• Stop when you need to. Trying to push “just a little farther” 

with a crying baby in the car can be dangerous, as you’re 

distracted and nervous. Take the time to stop and calm your baby. 

• Put safety first. Make sure that you keep your baby in his 

carseat. Many nursing mothers breastfeed their babies during 

trips. This can be dangerous in a moving car, even if you are 

both securely belted: You can’t foresee an 

accident, and your body could slam forcefully 

into your baby. Instead, pull over and nurse 

your baby while he’s still in his carseat. That 

way, when he falls asleep, you won’t wake him 

up moving him back into his seat. 

Remember: Never, ever leave your baby alone in 

the car - not even for a minute. 

On the way home 

You may be so relieved that you lived 

through your trip that you sort of forget the 

other trip ahead of you: the trip home. You’ll 

need to organize the trip home as well as you did 

the trip out. A few days in advance, make certain that all your 

supplies are refilled and ready to go. Think about the best time 

to leave, and plan accordingly. In addition, think about what you 

learned on the trip to your destination that might make the trip 

home even easier. Is there something you wish you would have 

had but didn’t? Something you felt you could have done 

differently? Did you find yourself saying, “I wish we would 

have...”? Now’s the time to make any adjustments to your 

original travel plan so that your trip back home is pleasant and 

relaxed. 

ELIZABETH PANTLEY IS THE AUTHOR OF THE NO-CRY SOLUTION SERIES 

OF BOOKS FOR PARENTS. THIS ARTICLE IS AN EXCERPT FROM GENTLE 

BABY CARE BY ELIZABETH PANTLEY. (MCGRAW-HILL, 2003) 

 


Order From the Start 

Teaching Children Organizational Skills 

by Shannon M. Medisky 

You’d think I had asked the kids to pull French fries out of 

their ears. That’s an ample description of my fourth graders’ 

response to, “Please put the handout in your binders.” Instead of 

a flurry of activity, I saw nothing more than a sea of blank faces 

staring back at me. I couldn’t understand why. I knew these kids 

had been carrying and using binders since the 2nd grade at our 


Groceries: 

- bread 

- orange juice 

- cheese 

- milk 

- dog food 

school - at least in theory. Even though 

I had taken over the class mid-year, I 

had been there long enough to see students painstakingly pack 

their binders and haul them to and from school each day. 

The look on my face must have been just as blank because 

before I knew it, a soft-spoken boy in the second row whispered 

to me, “Mrs. Medisky, we don’t know how to use our binders.” 

Organizational skills are basic. They’re so basic that many 

teachers and parents merely assume children will acquire them 

naturally. 

Organizational skills are also vital to future success. Without 

organization, belongings get lost, order is lacking and things 

don’t make sense. We teach children the order in one-to-one 

correspondence as we point to objects and count the 

corresponding numbers aloud. We encourage kids to create order 

by solving puzzles. We even ask them to recognize and anticipate 

patterns. Teaching children how to organize the world around 

them is no less important. But where does one start? Here are five 

key steps to a great beginning: 

1. Start early. Children of all ages (and most adults) crave order. 

Help young children feel in control of their surroundings 

by enabling them to create order themselves. Even a youngster 



in the throes of the terrible twos can appreciate 

knowing everything has a place. Place shelves at 

kid level. Supply small plastic bins - without lids 

- for putting small toys inside. Consider pasting 

pictures of what goes where in a playroom to 

create visual cues for your youngster to follow. 

2. Teach by example. No matter what your child’s 

age, share your organizational strategies. You may 

not be aware of it, but each time you write 

a grocery list, jot an event on the calendar and rearrange the 

closet, you’re organizing. Model this well for your child. 

3. Connect to what they know. Don’t start from scratch. Instead, 

make connections to things that children can relate to. 

Whether they recognize it as organization or not, routines 

help children in their daily life and they appreciate routine, 

like how they get fed three times a day. A hungry toddler is 

inclined to let you know lunch is late by becoming cranky. 

Point this out: Meals are organized at certain times of the day. 

Similarly, toys need to be put away and organized, too. 

4. Be open to differences. Organization is not one size fits all. If 

your child seems to be a visual learner, use colors and pictures 

to assist him in organizing his things. Does your child march 

to the beat of a different drum? Help him invent songs to 

remember what goes where. If your child is older, show him 

that he doesn’t have to adhere to a certain way of organizing. 

Help children make modifications that work for them. Small 

pictures that can be recognized at a glance, for example, may 

work well on divider tabs for visual learners. 

back to 

school 

music 

lesson 

dentist 

soccer 

soccer 

soccer 

soccer 

game 

5. Point out the payoff. Explain to your 

children what they’ll gain from their new 

organizational skills. Toys that are properly 

taken care of and put away can be enjoyed for 

a long time. Homework that is placed in a 

designated spot means less chance of losing 

it, along with less stress and better grades. 

Teaching children organizational skills needn’t be 

a foreign and painful process. Show your children how they can 

create order in their daily lives in ways that work for them. You’ll 

be giving each of your children a gift that will last a lifetime. 

SHANNON M. MEDISKY IS AN EDUCATOR TURNED PARENT TURNED WRITER. MEDISKY’S LATEST BOOK 

THE COMPLETE IDIOT’S GUIDE TO STRETCHING YOUR DOLLAR (ALPHA) IS IN STORES NOW. TO READ 

MORE FROM SHANNON’S VISIT: WWW.SHANNONMEDISKY.COM. 

Leora Splett M.ED, R.C.C. 

Registered Clinical Counsellor 

#208 - 616 K.L.O. Rd 

(Mission View Medical Bldg) 

250.860.6661 

 

• Individual, Marriage & Family Therapy 

• Anxiety & Depression 

• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder 

• Anger Management 

• Stress Management 

• EDXTM Therapy 

• Learning Disabilities 

• Play Therapy & Sand World Therapy 

• Traumatic Incident Stress Reduction 

• Criminal Victim Therapy 



Parents at Play 

by Betsy Mann 

past and planning the future, children at play are absorbed in the 

present. They are more interested in looking at the rainbows in 

the oil slick on a puddle than in getting somewhere on time. This 

can be frustrating, but in fact there are benefits to slowing down 

to child speed. Many stress reduction techniques are based on the 

principle of focussing in the moment in order to relax from the 

constant pressures of daily life. Of course, some things do need 

to get done, but not always right away. If you can put aside your 

list of things to do for even a short time, you can think of your 

children’s invitation to spontaneous play as your private, inhome 

stress-reduction program. 

Sometimes life with children seems to be one long string of 

tasks, and parents lament that family times that were supposed to 

be fun are reduced to one more thing to do. But the fun is there 

to be rediscovered in the magical world of play to which young 

children hold the key. Entering that world with them brings 

opportunities to discover a new point of view and to strengthen 

family ties. 

Another view of time ••• While adults are worrying about the 

Building intimacy ••• In the world of play, parents and children 

get to know each other in a different way, building a precious 

intimacy. Shared smiles and laughter create a strong basis for 

relationships when many other forces seem to be pulling families 

apart. 

Simple joys ••• It is often moments of very simple play that help 

children feel close to their parents. With your children, you can 

relive good times you remember from your own childhood... or 

do things you never had a chance to do when you were young. 

When adults play with children, they can do things (like skip 

down the street singing a song out loud) that would look weird 

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 

Where we learn, grow & play together. 

The focus of Westside Preschool 

is learning through play and 

socialization. We offer a safe 

environment for both children 

and parents to 

develop 

friendships. 

Too 

LICENSED GROUP DAYCARE 

2 1/2 - 5 years 

Kindercare • After School Care 

Preschool 

250-765-4900 

OPEN MONDAY to FRIDAY 7:30AM - 5:30PM 

535 Molnar Road, Kelowna 

Accepting 

registrations 

for 2011/2012 

school year. 

Classes Offered 

Monday / Wednesday / Friday 

Tuesday / Thursday 9-11:30am 

U 

Qualified 

Staff 

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 

Westside Preschool 

A NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION 

A Parent Participation Preschool 

2011 Daimler Drive, Westbank 

Across from Constable Neil Bruce Middle School 

250-769-7274 

www.westsidepreschool.com 

StrongStart 

Early Learning Centres 

The StrongStart program is a Ministry of Education 

funded program that is intended to fill a niche for 

children who are not attending childcare and are in the 

home with their parents or other caregivers, such as 

grandparents or nannies. Our School District offers this 

free drop-in program for three and four year olds who 

are accompanied by their parent(s) or caregiver. 

Centres are located in the following schools: 

KELOWNA AREA 

RUTLAND AREA 

A.S. Matheson Elementary South Rutland Elementary 

Raymer Elementary 

Pearson Road Elementary 

WEST KELOWNA AREA LAKE COUNTRY AREA 

Hudson Road Elementary George Elliot Secondary 

George Pringle Elementary 

Peachland Elementary 

For more information please visit 

SD No. 23’s website at www.sd23.bc.ca 

and look for Early Learning Programs 

or call 250-860-8888. 



if they were alone. Here are a few suggestions you can 

adapt to the age of your own children. 

• play peek-a-boo with a baby 

• build a tower of blocks and laugh 

when they fall down 

• walk in the rain and splash in puddles 

• put a blanket over a table 

and see what it turns into 

(a bear’s cave, a secret castle,...) 

• make paper finger puppets together 

and invent a puppet show 

• have a winter picnic on a 

blanket in the kitchen 

• collect pretty rocks 

• skip stones on a lake or river 

• sit in the park and watch 

the birds and the squirrels 

• go for a walk after dark 

Music & Dance ••• If you have trouble turning 

off the message in your head that says “You 

really have more important things to do than 

play,” try short-circuiting it with music or dance. 

Music and movement involve different parts of 

our brain and are especially relaxing, for both 

parents and children. 

• Sing your children songs you remember from when 

you were young (lullabies, camp songs, family favourites). 

• If you can’t remember any songs, borrow books and tapes 

from the library and learn a few. 

• Tapes are no substitute for your own voice; if you’re 

too shy to sing alone, at least sing along. With 

children for an audience, you may find your voice. 

• Put on whatever music you like-baroque to 

hiphop-and dance your little one around 

the living room. (Bigger ones like this too.) 

Laughter ••• If playing makes you feel 

kind of silly, laugh! Laughter is relaxing 

and releases emotions; some therapists 

recommend thirty minutes of laughter 

a day as a remedy for stress. Humour, 

by putting things into another perspective, 

can smooth out moments of 

conflict and defuse tense situations. 

A Playful Attitude ••• With practice, 

you may be able to play your way right 

through some of those tasks on your 

list of things to do. Sorting laundry can 

turn into a game; singing funny songs will 

make the time spent doing errands seem 

shorter. In the world of play, the load seems 

lighter, and children and parents can draw 

closer together. 

(FRP CANADA) 707 - 331 COOPER STREET, OTTAWA, ON K2P 0G5. 

TOLL FREE: 1-866-637-7226 WWW.FRP.CA / WWW.PARENTSMATTER.CA 

 

The Clubhouse Child Care Center 

“Child care that goes above and beyond” 

Non-Profit Charitable Society 

theclubhouse@shawcable.com 

www.clubhousechildcare.com 

PROGRAMS: 

• Kindercare & Out of School Care for: 

✓St. Joseph’s Elementary 

✓Casorso Elementary 

✓AS Matheson Elementary 

✓Raymer Elementary 

• Summer School Age Program 

• Daycare 

• Preschool 

• Infant/Toddler Care 

The Clubhouse on Sutherland 

250-860-4393 

The Clubhouse at A.S. Matheson 

250-860-4336 

The Clubhouse at Raymer 

250-860-6177 

The Clubhouse at Cottonwoods 

250-860-1448 

programme préscolaire francophone: 3 ans - 5 ans 

675 rue Lequime, Kelowna BC V1W 1A3 Tél : 250-979-8449 

petitsoursonskelowna@gmail.com 

www.lespetitsoursons.ca 

SHAMROCK FAMILY DAYCARE 

Where children learn, share, laugh 

Play & have fun! 

Government License 

Birth to School Age • KCCS Member 

Oliveria Loureiro • 250-769-7607 

Quality childcare since 1993 

2060 Shamrock Dr, West Kelowna, BC 



Member of 

KCCS since 

1993 

Licenced Family Daycare 

WESTBANK AREA 

250-768-1368 

FOR CHILDREN 

OF ALL AGES 

Days, Evenings 

& Weekends 

Available 

Early Years Learning Centre 

940 Belgo Rd - off Rutland Rd. 

250-765-4224 

Daycare 1 - 5 years 

E.C.E. Qualified 

Where 

learning & fun goes 

hand in hand. 

FULL TIME PART TIME DROP-IN 

Jackie’s Happy Daycare 

• ECE Qualified 

• Now Licensed for Eight 

• Daycare 7:30am - 4:30pm 

• Preschool 3 Days a Week 

• Meals and Snacks Provided 

• All Ages Welcome 

250-868-2461 

700 MATT ROAD, KELOWNA, B.C. V1X 3V9 

• Central Kelowna 

• Transportation & 

snacks included 

• Pro Day & 

early dismissals 

• Kindergarten and up 

• Licensed facility 

VELMA FEENY 

250-212-2255 

797 Birch Avenue www.afterschoolcare.ca 

Okanagan Montessori Elementary & Preschool 

Preschool Classes • Elementary Classes 

Daycare • Afterschool Care 

3439 E. Kelowna Rd. 

250-860-1165 

email okmontessori@shawbiz.ca 

Rutland Community School Offers 

Before, After and Kindercare in the Rutland Area 

Call 250-765-4052 for more information 

GLENMORE RECREATION 

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM 

239 Snowsell St. Kelowna 

250-763-6343 

- licensed, non-profit 

- children choose from 

a variety of supervised 

activities each day 

- serving North 

Glenmore and Watson 

Road schools 

- qualified staff team 

- M-F til 6:00pm 

Sept.-June 



CHILD CARE SECTION 

Child Care Options for 

Kelowna/West Kelowna Area 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 

10 

11 

12 

13 

14 

15 

16 

17 

18 

19 

20 

21 

22 

23 

24 

25 

26 

27 

28 

29 

A Ray of Sun Family Daycare • Pg 18 

Aberdeen Hall • Pg 

Adventure Corner Childcare • Pg 15 

Boys and Girls Clubs • Pg 22 

Cleo’s Sunshine Daycare • Pg 18 

Clubhouse Child Care Centre • Pg 14 

Dynamic After School Care • Pg 15 

Early Years Learning Centre • Pg 15 

For the Kids Daycare • Pg 18 

Gail’s Family Daycare • Pg 15 

Glenmore After 

School Program • Pg 15 

Heritage Christian Preschool • Pg 18 

Jackie’s Happy Daycare • Pg 15 

Kelowna Christian Preschool • Pg 4 

Kelowna Waldorf School • Pg 18 

Kelowna Young Parents 

Program/KCCS • Pg 3 

Le Petit Hibou Preschool • Pg 19 

L’Ecole des Petits Oursons • Pg 14 

Lil Cottage Educational 

Daycare • Pg 19 

Mi Escuelita Preschool • Pg 18 

Okanagan Montessori 

Elementary & Preschool • Pg 15 

Okanagan Montessori 

Preschool & Kindergarten • Pg 18 

Rutland Community School • Pg 15 

Rutland Parent Participation 

Preschool • Pg 18 

Shamrock Family Daycare • Pg 14 

Shannon Lake Preschool • Pg 19 

Tigger and Me Too Daycare • Pg 13 

Westside Parent Participation 

Preschool • Pg 13 

YMCA/YWCA • Pg 21 

NOTE: Map location indicates area daycare is located not the specific street. Not all regulated daycares in the Central Okanagan are on this 

map as it is a paid advertisement. Contact the Kelowna Child Care Resource & Referral Programs at 250-762-3536 for a more extensive list. 


CHILD CARE SECTION 




PRESCHOOL AND KINDERGARTEN 

Learning for life! 

LAKESHORE CAMPUS • 3131 LAKESHORE RD 

KLO CAMPUS • 1370 K.L.O. ROAD 

Afternoon placements available for September 2012 

For more information contact 250-878-8128. 

...where we play, learn and grow 

with Christian Values. 

For children age: 3 to school age 

1, 2 or 3 days per week 

For more info visit: www.kcc.net/preschool 

250.980.5604 

Kelowna Christian Center, 905 Badke Rd. V1X 5Z5 

email: childcare@kcc.net 

A Ray of Sun 

~ LICENSED FAMILY DAYCARE ~ 

Open 7:30am - 5:00pm 

763-7288 

CAPRI AREA LOCATION 

Adrienne Lauro, LICENSED F.D.C. 

• Springfield/Hollywood Location 

• Government Licensed 

• KCCS Member 

• From Birth to School Age 

Rutland Parent Participation 

Preschool 

Where kids come to 

learn and play, and 

parents make a 

difference. 

Call 250-491-9699 

NOW LOCATED AT BLACK MOUNTAIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 

SUBSIDIES AVAILABLE 


Moving Day: 

Helping Children Adjust to a New Home 

by Karen Stephens 


Childhood changes vary from one developmental stage to 

another. Whatever the change, it can create emotional stress for 

all family members. Moving to a new home is one example. 

For children, a move may mean 

leaving known friends and loved relatives. They’ll leave 

behind familiar sounds, scents, and sights of home. A move 

requires children to develop new relationships with peers and 

adults in a different child care program or school. 

Even though a household move temporarily interrupts a 

child’s predictable routines and comfort, a move in itself isn’t 

necessarily bad. A move can help children learn to be adaptable, 

flexible, resilient, self-confident, brave, and capable of making 

new friends. Moves can broaden children’s experiences and 

introduce them to greater diversity. 

But of course, not all family moves are equal. Sometimes a 

move is required for a parent’s job promotion or to be nearer 

extended family. Other times a move is required for a 

disappointing, more disruptive reason, such as job loss, parent 

divorce, or even natural disaster. And while most moves are 

planned, some children must adjust to emergency or very shortnotice 

moves. Each situation offers unique challenges. 

How children face and adjust to a move will vary according 

to age, inborn temperament, personality, experience, and family 

harmony. The first supportive step parents can take is to 

communicate honestly with children and then model and 

nurture positive coping skills. 

. emergent curriculum 

. small classes 

. AM and PM classes 

. kindergarten readiness skills 

118-2220 Shannon Ridge Dr. 

West Kelowna, BC 707-3223 

A non-profit preschool offering an 

introduction to French Immersion 

within an English preschool program. 

Now accepting registrations 

Full subsidy spots may be available 

250-765-4416 

(Belgo Elementary, Rutland) 

250-768-7123 

(George Pringle Elementary, West Kelowna) 

Shannon Lake Preschool 

Sherri Jones 

E.C.E. I/T, S.N. 

The Lil’ Cottage 

now offers Drop-in Play 

Sessions! Play sessions are 

available Monday - Friday 

9:00 - 11:30am 

1:00 - 3:30pm 

Parents may drop off their 

child(ren) and return at the 

end of the 2.5hr play 

session for pick-up! 

The Lil’ Cottage 

Educational Daycare 

Located in the lower Mission, just off Lakeshore Road, 

2 blocks from Casorso Elementary School. 

The Lil' Cottage Educational 

Daycare is a licensed daycare 

that believes in having fun 

while incorporating early 

education and learning 

into their program. 

They have a staff of 

fully qualified Early 

Childhood Educators 

with over 12 years of 

experience! They care 

for children from 18 

months to 5 years of age. 

For more information about their program please call Lori at 

250-862-0763 

or email thelilcottage@hotmail.com 

You can also check them out online at 

www.thelilcottage.ca 



The unknown can be more frightening 

to children than a move itself. So resist 

delaying news about the move; it will not 

reduce children’s anxiety. While wellmeaning, 

this may result in a child being overwhelmed 

by too swift a change. Children are 

likely to “eavesdrop” and learn of moving 

plans if you don’t tell them first. Give 

preschoolers at least a month’s notice so they 

can process information. Older children will 

appreciate even earlier notice. 

Once you decide to move, be truthful and 

straightforward. Explain things in simple, matterof-fact 

language. Discuss the move’s pros and 

cons. Otherwise, you’ll lose credibility and 

children’s trust, something they desperately 

need to cling to during big life changes. 

Leave pauses in conversations to give 

children a chance to ask questions. Make sure 

they know you’re willing to listen to them and 

discuss their viewpoint. And if it is true, reassure 

them that the whole family is moving together; 

no one will be left behind. 

As children react to news of the move, be empathetic and 

respect their feelings. Perhaps your child will express anger about 

moving. At first, you might be tempted to respond by saying, 

“You should be happy and grateful I’m trying to give you a nicer 

home.” That comment merely serves to alienate a child and 

induce guilt. 

Most times children simply need parent 

assistance in sorting out and coping with feelings. 

A more supportive response helps children 

clarify their feelings, such as: “Moving is 

upsetting news to you. I wonder if you’re afraid 

you might not find new friends? Can you tell 

me about that?” 

That response acknowledges the child’s 

feelings and gives the child the permission to 

elaborate. By exploring and expressing feelings, 

children learn to manage and reconcile 

them. They also get a clearer view of what they 

can and cannot control. 

Below are other suggestions for preparing children for a 

move and helping them adjust after a move: 

• A move can drain children’s energy and interrupt 

concentration. When possible, avoid moving during stressful 

times - including near important family holidays. 

• Read good children’s books about moving. This prepares 

children and invites communication. Two of my favorites are: 

Alexander, Who’s Not (Do you hear me? I mean it?) Going to 

Move by Judith Viorst (New York: Antheneum Books for Young 

Readers, 1995) and A Tiger Called Thomas by Diana Cain 

Bluthenthal (New York: Hyperion Books for Children, 2003). 

• Rehearse upcoming events. Children can act out the move 

through pretend play with puppets, dolls, or stuffed animals. 

Old cardboard boxes can be “moving vans” and toy luggage 

storage for “treasures.” 

• After announcing the move, encourage children to write, tell, 

or draw a story of what he/she thinks might happen. This gives 

insight into your child’s perceptions and feelings. After hearing 

the story, you can confirm information or clear up misconceptions. 

Use the same technique after the move to encourage 

your child to continue expressing thoughts and feeling. 

• Help children gradually “warm up” to the move. Beforehand, 

tour the new neighborhood together. If you visit the new 

home or apartment, be sure to tell your child you’ll move your 

family’s belongings to the home so it will look more familiar. 

Visit several times so children can gradually get acquainted. 

• Inform child care providers and teachers of the move so they 

know it may affect your child’s behavior. Ask them to contact 

you if they become concerned about your child’s adjustment. 

• Having some sense of control over events reduces children’s 

anxious feelings. Include children in moving preparations so 

they feel like competent, contributing family members. 

Children can help pack toy boxes or plan ways to make the 

family pet’s move more comfortable, too. Children can also 

help pick out bedroom colors and help plan how to arrange 

bedroom furniture. 

Moving to a new home and neighborhood will be one of 

your child’s first major life transitions. With your sensitive and 

responsive support, children will successfully meet the challenge. 

It’s a lesson that will serve them well for a lifetime. 

KAREN STEPHENS IS DIRECTOR OF ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY CHILD CARE CENTER AND INSTRUCTOR 

IN CHILD DEVELOPMENT FOR THE ISU FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES DEPARTMENT. FOR NINE 

YEARS SHE WROTE A WEEKLY PARENTING COLUMN IN HER LOCAL NEWSPAPER. 


Take Ten for Fun 

Submitted by Lisa Robinson, Program Coordinator, Child Care Resource & Referral Program 


With today’s busy family schedules, do you ever feel like you 

are just getting through the day? It’s time to take a moment to 

celebrate the little things in life and take ten minutes every now 

and then to have some simple fun with your kids.The following 

activities are designed for you and your family to enjoy with little 

energy or effort! 

Sending Special Messages 

WHAT YOU NEED: Liquid hand or dishwashing 

soap, cotton swab, mirror and a cup 

GETTING STARTED: Place a couple drops of 

liquid hand soap or dish 

washing soap into a cup. 

Use a cotton swab (fingers 

work too) to write a message 

on the mirror in the bathroom. 

Make sure it is thin enough to be 

invisible. Before your loved one takes a hot shower, 

remind them to close the door! When they are 

done showering and the room is steamy, they will 

discover your special message on the mirror. If you 

don’t want to wait for them to have a hot shower, 

have them breathe on the mirror and your 

message will appear! 

Family Fingerprint Art 

WHAT YOU NEED: Construction or white 

paper, inkpad, markers and imagination 

GETTING STARTED: Gather an inkpad and some paper. Place your 

thumb or finger on the inkpad and press it onto the paper. Use 

fingerprints from each member of your family to create a 

masterpiece! Using felt-tipped pens of different colours, 

complete the design. For example, add petals 

around a thumbprint to make flowers. Use 

smaller and bigger fingerprints to create 

animals, people and landscapes. There is no 

end to what you can make! 

Party Placemats - or for every day fun! 

WHAT YOU NEED: Construction paper, stickers, 

crayons or markers, old magazines (or old 

cook books) for collage pictures, glue sticks, 

clear contact paper (optional) and other 

miscellaneous items to personalize placemats, 

such as photos. 

GETTING STARTED: Place items on the table and 

have everyone decide what they want to put 

762-4754 



on their placemat. Spark your child’s imagination by asking 

what they like to eat or activities they like to do.They will then 

look for pictures or words that remind them of what they like 

and glue them onto their placemat. Once the creations are 

complete, you can cover the placemat with clear contact 

paper. Be sure and cut the contact paper one inch bigger, 

both lengthwise and horizontally, than the size of your 

placemat. This is a great activity for birthday parties and 

family gatherings! 

Sand Play Pictures 

WHAT YOU NEED: Construction 

paper, cotton swab or craft 

stick, liquid glue, sand and 

probably a broom (unless you 

do this activity outside, which is 

highly recommended!) 

GETTING STARTED: Give everyone a piece of construction paper. Have 

everyone spread glue on their paper in whatever design they wish, 

using a cotton swab or craft stick. Sprinkle sand on the glue, shaking 

off the access. Voila!! Lovely sand art! Lay the pictures flat to dry for 

about an hour or so, to ensure the glue dries. 

Silly Never Ending Stories 

WHAT YOU NEED: Imagination and participants who like to talk! 

GETTING STARTED: Choose someone to start the story. When they 

reach an important part of their story, they will stop and the next 

person will continue the story in their own words, then they stop 

and let the third person take over until everyone has had several 

turns and a story has unfolded. Encourage the children to use their 

imaginations! Don’t forget to be silly - children love silly stories! 

Bubble Fun for Everyone 

WHATYOU NEED: Large container, bubble 

blowers, 1/2 cup dish soap, 1 1/2 

cups water, 2 teaspoons sugar 

GETTING STARTED: Choose a 

large container and add 1/2 

cup of dish soap. Add 1 1/2 

c u p s o f w a t e r a n d 2 

teaspoons of sugar. Gently 

stir the mixture then go 

outside and blow bubbles! 

TIP: Don’t shake or stir your 

bubbles too much. Store bubbles 

in a tightly sealed container and try 

using different items to create bubbles! 

Constructing Constellations 

WHAT YOU NEED: Black paper, star stickers, white 

chalk or white crayons 

GETTING STARTED: Look at pictures of simple 

constellations (in books or on the internet), such 

as the Big Dipper. Give each of your children a 

piece of black paper and several star stickers. 



Invite them to invent their own constellations by arranging their 

stars on the paper any way they wish and then have them join the 

stars with a white crayon or white chalk. Encourage them to make 

up names for their constellations, if they wish. 

GIANT 

Sandwich 

Day Outing! 

WHAT YOU NEED: 

French loaf cut in 

half, sandwich supplies, 

snacks and drinks. 

GETTING STARTED: Lay out the spread of lunch choices and have a 

GIANT sandwich day! Have your child help to make the special 

GIANT sandwich, snacks and drinks. Pack it up and head to your 

local park, beach or Mission Creek Greenway for a great GIANT 

sandwich picnic. 

Razzle Dazzle Drink Creations 

WHAT YOU NEED: Variety of juices, sparkling 

water, fruit, berries, fresh mint (optional), 

fancy straws and mini drink umbrellas. 

GETTING STARTED: Layout a selection of juices and 

sparkling water, slice up some citrus fruit and portion out some 

berries and fresh mint for the kids to create with. Don’t forget to 

have lots of ice, fancy straws and mini umbrellas on hand. You never 

know - they may invent a new family favourite! 

Ice Cube Tabletop Hockey 

GETTING STARTED: Toddlers to 

teens love this cool hockey 

game! Lay out the tablecloth 

on a hard, flat surface - it can be 

a floor or tabletop. Mark your goal 

posts, centerlines and whatever 

decorations for the surface that you 

want.Place ice cube on centerline and 

it’s game on! Depending on how big 

your surface is, you can have one to 

three players per team. 

LISA ROBINSON IS THE PROGRAM COORDINATOR, FOR 

THE KELOWNA CHILD CARE SOCIETY, CHILD CARE 

RESOURCE AND REFERRAL PROGRAM. 

WHAT YOU NEED: Ice cubes, mini sticks or craft 

sticks, solid colour plastic tablecloth, permanent 

markers, food colouring (optional) and goal 

posts. If your family is like mine, you will also 

need a referee to attend the game! 

 

Want to give Curling a try? 

Daytime 

& Evening 

Games 

Clinics & 

Instruction 

Available 

Mixed • Corporate • Ladies • Mens 

Youth League and Middle-High School League 

Half Season League Wednesday and Friday Night 

Leagues Start in October and January 

Ask about Instructional Leagues Starting October and January 

Contact JOCK or MARNIE at 250-762-3112 and get involved! 

Kelowna Curling Club, 551 Recreation Ave., north end of town between Ellis & Richter 

See us at www.kelownacurling.com or email info@kelownacurling.com 



Change the way you Shop 

Using Coupons Wisely! 

by Traci Savel 

People of all ages and income levels are looking for ways to 

save their money. A great way to save money on everyday 

purchases is through the use of coupons. The dollar saving 

potential is now much more than years past. Many coupon savvy 

shoppers spend up to five hours a week on coupon related 

activities, including checking flyers, finding and clipping 

coupons that coincide with individual store sales, planning meals 

and coupon swapping, all to get the best value for their dollar. 

Using coupons effectively means totally rethinking your 

approach to how and what you purchase. Change the way you 

shop. The idea is not to buy when you need it - typically paying 

full price for an item - but to purchase several of the same items, 

using coupons, in order to save the most amount of money. 

Supermarkets and Drugstores have sales cycles. Every six 

weeks items go on sale and “stockpiling” (having several of the 

same items on hand) is an important money saving aspect of 

coupon use. Purchasing more of a product than your immediate 

need, with items you already purchase for your family when 

prices are low, will be beneficial in the future, as prices fluctuate. 

Stockpiling products that are non-perishable is a practice most 

coupon savvy shoppers do. Each dollar spent buying something 

at half price, represents a dollar value you won’t spend on that 

same item down the road. 

Stockpiling is specific and personal for your family’s needs. A 

way to know how much your family needs of a specific item 

would be to mark the date you open a product and see how long 

it takes your family to use it up. This then determines how many 

of one item your family will need to stock up on. The idea is to 

save money by stockpiling, not to ‘hoard’ products. 

As an example, my family will go through two boxes of 

Parents 

Looking for a friendly, inviting place to bring your children? 

Somewhere that they can play, and you can have a coffee, 

meet other families and learn about resources 

available in your community? 

Parents/Caregivers & children ages 0 - 6 years 

Come and join our free creative playtimes 

9:30 to 11:30am on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 

at our Martin Avenue Community Centre location (1435 Graham St.) 

and 9:30 to 12:30am on Tuesdays 

at our Parent Place location (630 Cadder Ave.) 

No 

registration 

required 


For further information: 

Check our website at www.kelownachildcare.com or call 

Kelowna Child Care Society • 250-762-3536 

or email Michele (Michele.Hucul@thebridgeservices.ca) 



Granola Bars in a week. To keep enough Granola Bars on my shelf 

for the six-week sale cycle, I would need to purchase 12 boxes. 

To do this I would then need to obtain at least 12 (or more) 

granola bar coupons, in order to save the maximum amount of 

money possible. 

Another beneficial aspect to couponing that savvy shoppers 

often engage in is “stacking coupons”. This essentially means 

using two or more coupons, of various dollar amounts, to 

purchase one item. As an example, High Liner Pan Sear fish is 

regularly $13.99 and it is on sale for $9.99. You could, in effect, 

use a $2.00 off coupon from one source, a $1.00 off coupon 

from another source and a $1.00 tearpad coupon from the store 

to lower the fish cost to $6.00, total cost, as long as all the UPC 

codes (found on the bottom of the coupons) are different. 

Currently, British Columbia and Alberta are the only provinces 

that allow people to “stack coupons”. 

A few coupon musts would be to read the fine print on the 

coupon. Note the expiry dates, as coupons will typically not be 

accepted past a certain date. Ensure your coupon has a Canadian 

address, as most Canadian retailers will not accept US coupons. 

Know your supermarket and drugstore regular prices, to save 

your coupons and use as many coupons as you can against any 

one item. An important piece of information to keep with you 

when venturing into the store to shop with your coupons is a 

store’s coupon policy. Certain retailers allow stacking while 

others don’t. To find your favourite stores coupon policy, check 

their website and/or call their main office and ask to have one 

sent to you. Often a stores customer service desk is able to 

provide a coupon policy for their customers. 

Finding coupons is really quite simple. There are great sites 

such as www.save.ca, www.websaver.ca, www.brandsaver.ca and 

www.gocoupons.ca. You can also look for coupons in stores they 

have tear pads on shelves. There are also often coupons included 

in the packaging of products you already use, such as cereal boxes. 

Considering using coupons? Start with a basic three ring 

binder and trading card inserts (found in various stores) to keep 

your coupons visible and organized. The use of dividers is 

helpful, to keep coupons together that are related to food, 

personal supplies, laundry and cleaning needs, pet needs, etc. 

Remember, using coupons effectively makes sense and saves cents! 

TRACI SAVEL HAS BEEN MARRIED FOR 25 YEARS AND HAS A DAUGHTER WHO IS 24. SHE HAS BEEN 

COUPON CLIPPING FOR ABOUT 14 YEARS. GROWING UP IN A SINGLE PARENT HOME, WHERE THE 

BUDGET WAS TIGHT, AND HAVING A CHILD WHILE ATTENDING SCHOOL, CAUSED HER TO LEARN TO 

CLIP COUPONS. CURRENTLY SHE TEACHES COUPON WORKSHOPS FREE OF CHARGE. 

SHE CAN BE CONTACTED AT: TSAVEL@SHAW.CA. 

 

OVER 75 

SHOPS, 

RESTAURANTS 

AND SERVICES 

INCLUDING 

ZELLERS 

SAVE-ON-FOODS 

AND THE 

FUTURE SHOP 

PLUS 

FAMOUS 

PLAYERS 

5 SCREEN 

CINEMA 

CENTRE 

AT HARVEY 

& COOPER 

IN KELOWNA 

LOTS 

OF 

SHOPPING 

LOTS 

OF 

FUN! 



Fun at the Farmer’s Market! 

by Kia Robertson 

Imagine a place where you could buy the freshest produce, 

learn how it was grown, support your community and provide 

your children with a fun and educational shopping experience. 

Look no further than your local Farmers Market! 

Farmers markets have a magical quality that brings families 

and communities together; farm fresh produce, knowledgeable 

farmers, and a relaxed outdoor feeling are just some of the 

benefits you’ll enjoy! 

Here are 4 reasons to take your family to the farmers market: 

1. Aside from growing your own produce, you won’t find it any 

fresher than at a farmers market! The colorful produce is 

grown locally and picked when perfectly ripened and full of 

nutrients. This means it will look, smell and taste fantastic... 

experiencing produce at its best is great when you are 

introducing them to your children! No one likes soggy old 

produce! 

2. You have an opportunity to talk to the people that grow your 

food! Farmers are a fantastic source of information and some 

have a favorite recipe or two to share! Your children can come 

up with a few questions for them such as: “what vegetable 

grows the fastest” or “how do you know when carrots are 

ready to be picked”? Connecting your children with the foods 

they eat and the people who grow it is an important step in 

teaching them how to make smart food choices for 

themselves. 

3. You are making an earth friendly choice when purchasing 

produce grown in your area. Buying local produce reduces 

transportation pollution and costs. Choosing to buy locally 

grown produce is healthier for you and the planet! It’s also a 

great way to support the hard working farmers in your area. 

Talk about a win-win situation for all! 

4. It’s a wonderful hands-on learning adventure for your 

Where is organic food 

in your community?! 

Urban Harvest Organic 

Delivery brings the farm to your 

doorstep. We deliver the freshest, 

certified organic produce, as well as 

free-range eggs, organic dairy products, 

tofu, micro-roasted coffees, teas, juice, 

Little Creek dressings and more! We 

purchase as much as we can locally 

and offer opportunities for you to learn 

about the source of your food through 

our website, weekly newsletters, and 

seasonal celebrations! 

Prefer to do your own shopping? We also offer a 

weekly Saturday Market from 9am-1pm at our 

warehouse (806 Crowley Ave.) where you will find 

great deals and a wide selection all year round. 

** Present this 

ad and receive 

50% OFF your 

first order! 

Find out more at www.urbanharvest.ca, 

or contact us directly at 

250-868-2704 



children. Give them a bag and start them on a scavenger hunt 

to find a rainbow of colorful fruits and veggies! They’ll have 

fun tracking down a red fruit, an orange vegetable and so on! 

Let them help you select and purchase the produce. The more 

you involve your children in selecting, preparing and cooking 

produce the more comfortable and willing they’ll be to eat it! 

My family looks forward to our weekly trips to the farmers 

market where we see familiar friendly faces, sample new produce 

and come home with bags full of beautiful fresh fruits and 

vegetables! Happy healthy eating! 

KIA ROBERTSON IS A MOM AND THE CREATOR OF THE TODAY I ATE A RAINBOW KIT; A TOOL THAT 

HELPS PARENTS ESTABLISH HEALTHY HABITS BY SETTING THE GOAL OF EATING A RAINBOW OF FRUITS 

AND VEGETABLES EVERY DAY. KIA IS PASSIONATE ABOUT CREATING TOOLS THAT HELP PARENTS RAISE 

HEALTHY KIDS! 

 

Your complete Children's PARTY and EVENT Service 

More FUN than 

you can Imagine! 

★ Bouncy Castles 

★ Crawlzones 

★ Rock Climbing Wall ★ Mini Golf 

★ Wet and Dry Slides ★ Dunk Tank 

★ Face Painters ★ Balloon Twisters 

★ Birthday Parties (indoor & out) 

★ Festivals ★ Mall Sales 

★ Company picnics 

★ Theme Parties 

★ Grand Openings 

★ School & Church Fairs 

★ Fundraisers ★ Weddings 

★ Christmas, Halloween & other holidays 

★ Games, crafts and so much more! 

School District No. 23’s Early Learning opportunities includes a district program 

called ELFF (Early Learning for Families) as well as Ready, Set, Learn which is a 

school readiness initiative sponsored by the Ministry of Education. 

ELFF is supported through Ready, 

Set, Learn and provides opportunities 

for elementary schools to influence 

school readiness of children. 

Visit this website for further details. 

www.sd23.bc.ca 

Professional Nannies and Babysitters 

for families living, staying and 

playing in the Okanagan 

PENTICTON 250-487-9990 

KELOWNA 250-764-PAR-T (7278) 

E-MAIL: fun@par-t-perfect.com • www.par-t-perfect.com 



Marketing and Children 

by Amanda Turner 

I want __! I need __! I’ll die without __! 

Canadian children aged 9-14, also known as 

‘tweens’, spend more than $3 billion of their 

own money each year and influence an 

additional $20 billion of household purchases. 

No wonder marketing to children 

has increased exponentially in 

recent years. 

Marketers work to sell the belief 

to kids that if they buy their jeans or cell phone they will be 

more popular, good looking, and happier. They want your kids 

to feel like they are not good enough. But, they will be good 

enough once they have THIS product. 

Adults can help children resist the pressures to conform and 

explain that feeling good comes with valuing 

themselves and being true to their own values 

and interests. Luckily, children learn more 

from their parents than they do from ads. 

Which means it’s important for parents and 

caregivers to be aware of their own wants and 

show that material possessions and “what’s on 

the outside” isn’t where the value lies. 

Some good ways to battle the “want 

monsters”: 

Talk to them about ads. What do they like 

about them? How do ads make them feel? 

Why do they want to buy that product? How 

will their lives be different if they have that 

product? Telling them that their choices are 

being manipulated and that they are following 

Science Experiences That Come To You 

Book 

your party 

now! 

Birthday Party Packages 

• Super Science Party 

• Panning for Gems Party 

• Fossil Fun Party 

• Space Blast Party 

...and many more! 

Totally Safe 

Totally Age Appropriate 

Totally Hands-On Fun 

Also available for in-school field 

trips, summer camps, Girl Guide 

and Scout programs, afterschool 

programs and preschool 

programs. 

ScienceMadeFunOK.net 

Email: info@ScienceMadeFunOK.net 

Now Serving the Okanagan with Programs Erupting with Fun! 



the crowd if they buy into the 

advertising can be enough to make 

some rebellious tweens turn their 

backs on ads. 

Learn about value. Provide 

opportunities for children and 

tweens to earn money and find out 

how much time and effort may be 

needed in order to fulfill their 

wants. They may need to learn how 

to save their money, delay their 

gratification, and budget for all 

their wants - all great things to learn (at any age). 

Discuss the differences between wants and needs. Good 

conversation starters may be: If you were stranded on a desert 

island what would you need to be able to live for one month? 

(Think food, clothing, shelter, basic health care, personal 

hygiene). If you could have one small box sent to the island what 

would you want in the box? Why? 

Follow up the conversation with a donation of time, food, or 

a gift for families in need. This action will bring your family a 

sense of happiness that will last much longer than a new video 

game. There are many organizations working year round to 

assist families in need. To find out about opportunities in your 

community, contact Kelowna Community Resources at 

www.kcr.ca or 250-763-8002. 

AMANDA TURNER IS A PARENT OF TWO YOUNG BOYS AGED SEVEN AND TWO YEARS. 

 

Del Buono School of Dance 

Ages 3 to Adult 

Fun & enjoyable classes in: Tap, Jazz, 

Celtic (River Dance), B Boy Breakdancing, 

Ballet, Hip-hop, Lyrical, Contemporary 

& Ballroom Dance. 

864-6605 BIRTHDAY 

PARTIES 

AVAILABLE 

2936A Pandosy St • 331 Banks Rd • #17-1515 Westgate Rd 

250.868.1417 

#8 - 1960 Springfield Rd, Kelowna 

www.dance-essentials.com 

• full line of dancewear 

• footwear 

• skatewear 

• ballroom 

• gymwear 

Ballet • Jazz • Gymnastics • Tap • Figure Skating Irish • Ballroom • And more 

South Central Interior 

Distance Education 

School 

PO BOX 4700 STN MAIN 

MERRITT BC V1K 1B8 

www.scides.ca 

1 • 800 • 663 • 3536 

Elementary: 

Kindergarten to 

Grade 7 

Secondary: 

Grades 8 – 12 

Adult Programs 

including Upgrading 

All Tuition Free 

Your Choice, Your Pace 

~ Any Time, Any Place 

Do you want to be a true 

partner in your child’s 

education? 

Enjoy the benefits of schooling at home 

and watching your children grow. 

Enroll with our dedicated, certified 

teachers at SCIDES. 

You will be supported with: 

• Home visits 

• Toll free phone service 

• On line synchronous teaching 

• Email communication 

• Adapting programs to meet 

unique needs 

SCIDES also offers: 

• Integrated Special Education 

services 

• Online Piano & Guitar as well as 

Rosetta Stone Languages: Spanish, 

German & French. 

• Contracted services in your 

community 



1-866-856-8442 


LOOKING FOR CHILD CARE? WE CAN HELP! 

Your Community’s Best Source of 

Child Care Information and 

Resources 

✓ 

✓ 

✓ 

✓ 

✓ 

✓ 

✓ 

FREE referrals to licensed and 

screened child care facilities 

Child care information and consultation 

on fees, choosing and monitoring child care 

Computerized program that matches 

up hours, days and type of care needed 

Current child care vacancies 

Online child care referrals 

Information about subsidy, locations, 

fees, hours, spaces and services 

Membership services that include access to resources, 

a toy lending library, and bi-monthly newsletters. 

INTERESTED IN PROVIDING CHILD CARE IN YOUR HOME? 

The CCRR program provides consultation, 

training, support and information through: 

✓ 

✓ 

✓ 

✓ 

✓ 

✓ 

✓ 

✓ 

✓ 

support visits 

infant equipment lending 

home setting review 

networking social activities 

training and professional development sessions 

resource toy lending library 

theme activity boxes 

regular newsletter, bulletins and notices 

child care listing on the KCCS website 

For child care referrals or information on opening your own daycare: 

Phone: 250-762-3536 

Or visit our website: www.kelownachildcare.com 


#4 - 1890 Ambrosi Road 

Kelowna, BC 

V1Y 4R9 

Fax: 250-861-1299 

Email: resource@kelownachildcare.com 

Serving the community since 1976 

The CCRR Program 

is funded by: 

The Province of British Columbia 

and the United Way

helping children & youth 

become healthy adults. 

Parent Education and Support for Families 

• Parent Education Courses 

• Creative Playtime 

• ‘Parent Talk’ 

• Special Deliveries 

Parent Education Courses include: 

• Step/Blended Families 

• 1, 2, 3, 4 Parents! 

• Positive Discipline 

• Systematic Training for Effective Parenting (STEP) 

• Beyond the Hurt-Bullying Prevention 

• Bridging the Gap-Parent Teen Relationships 

• Sexual Health Knowledge-Becoming an Askable Adult 

• How to Talk So Kids Will Listen ...and more 

PARENT PLACE 

“I always know it is a safe, 

nurturing environment 

where I can get help with 

parenting matters and meet 

with other moms and dads.” 

Other programs offered by 

The Bridge at satellite locations: 

• Creative Playtime and Parent Talk - 

West Kelowna, Peachland, Lake Country 

• Prenatal Wellness Education - 

Rutland, Mission 

• Youth and Family Counselling 

• Caregiver Support 

“Loving staff and 

volunteers go way beyond the 

call of duty to help us look after 

ourselves and our little ones!” 

Accredited by the 

Council on Accreditation 

for Children and Families 

For more information call 

250-763-0456 

The Bridge Youth & Family Services 

1829 Chandler Street , Kelowna V1Y 3Z2 

info@thebridgeservices.ca 

www.thebridgeservices.ca

ok parent mag 2011_12.pdf - Kelowna Child Care Society

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