Island Parent Magazine Dec-Jan 2023

DEC/JAN 2023 

Vancouver Island’s Parenting Resource for 35 Years 

FREE COPY 

The 2022 

Family 

Favourites 

Results are Here 

HOLIDAY 

GIFT 

GUIDE 

Inside: 

GRAND 

A Special Feature 

for Grandparents 

Simplifying 

Your 

Traditions

Licensed child care facility with spots 

available for children aged 3-5 years. 

Contact us to book a tour today! 

Victoria Social Innovation Centre 

1004 North Park Street 

www.littlephoenixchildcare.ca 

director@littlephoenixchildcare.ca 

778-269-2273 

Delivering RESULTS 

ACE THE NEXT REPORT CARD WITH SYLVAN 

Delivering RESULTS 

ACE THE NEXT 

You Don't Have to "Go It Alone" 

REPORT CARD 

We know academic results are important to 

Sylvan Insight 

you, so start the school year on the right foot. 

WITH SYLVAN 

GET SCHOOL SUPPORT AT SYLVAN 

Assessment $49 

Sylvan students typically see up to two to three through September 30th 

We know academic results are important to you, so start the school year 

(regularly 

on 

$150) 

PERSONALIZED 

ACE THE NEXT times 

TUTORING 

REPORT more growth in 

THAT 

CARD their math 

GETS RESULTS 

WITH and reading SYLVANCALL NOW 

the right foot. Sylvan students scores than typically if they see hadn't up come to two to Sylvan*. to three times Offer more valid at participatingThank you 

locations only. Expires 

growth * Proven, in their math personal and reading and intensive scores than tutoring if they hadn’t programs, come to Sylvan*. Free 09/30/2021. 

Act now to take control of this school year. 

Assessment 

for voting us 

online OR in-person 

Value $150 your #1 

* Highly customized learning Act now plan to take to ensure control your of this child school year. 

Sylvan of Vancouver Island Sylvan Insight 

Must 

Family 

mention 

Favourite 

masters skills in math, reading, 

1-800-EDUCATE 

writing and more Assessment Education $49 

offer at time of 

* Live online or in-person attention and learning timethrough September Service! 30th 

Sylvan of Vancouver Island 

with expert, caring Sylvan-certified teachers 

(regularly booking $150) 

Offer valid at participating locations only. Cannot be 

*See the complete Sylvan Field Research Results at SylvanResearchInstitute.com. 

combined with any other discount or offer. One 

* Direct impact in classroom with school-aligned CALL NOW 

ow academic results are important to 

start the school year on the right foot. 

students typically see up to two to three 

ore growth in their math and reading 

than if they hadn't come to Sylvan*. 

*See the complete Sylvan Field Research Results at SylvanResearchInstitute.com 

assessment per family. Expires 11/15/20. 

curriculum 

Offer valid at participating 

locations only. Expires 

2 Island Parent Magazine 09/30/2021. 

IslandParent.ca 

w to take control of this school year. 

Sylvan of Vancouver Island


December/January 2023 3

DEC/JAN 2023 

Vancouver Island’s Parenting Resource for 35 Years 

FREE COPY 

TABLEOFCONTENTS 

10 

Give Presents and Presence 

LINDSAY COULTER 

14 

Take Back Your Health 

ERIKA PALMER 

16 

Raising Kids with 

a Healthy Body Image 

DR. JILLIAN ROBERTS 

Features 

24 

Nobody’s Perfect 

NATASHA MILLS 

26 

Family Favourites 

28 

Holiday Gift Guide 

KIM FOURNIER 

32 

Holiday Happenings 

36 

The Reality of 

Adopting a Pet 

CANADIAN PEDIATRIC SOCIETY 

In Every 

Issue 

5 

Fast Forward 

SUE FAST 

6 

Need to Know 

12 

Moms’ POV 

KELLY MCQUILLAN 

13 

Businesses You 

Need to Know 

18 

What’s for Dinner 

EMILLIE PARRISH 

20 

Kids’ Reads 

CHRISTINE VAN STARKENBURG 

22 

Cut It Out! 

ALLISON REES 

30 

Dadspeak 

GREG PRATT 

GRAND 



40 

Smart Kids & 

Smart Phones 

SUSAN GNUCCI 

42 

Setting Up a Meal Train 

EMILLIE PARRISH 

44 

Connecting with 

Teenage Grandkids 

KELLY CLEEVE 

46 

Sunday Crafternoon 

RACHEL DUNSTAN MULLER 

33 

Preschool & 

Child Care Directory 

34 

Nature Notes 

MADI HALLER 

37 

Family Resource Directory 

On the 

Cover 

Amelia T (2) 

Photo by 

Kimberley Kufaas 

kimberleykufaas.com 

The 2022 

Family 

Favourites 

Results are Here 

Inside: 

GRAND 



HOLIDAY 

GIFT 

GUIDE 

Simplifying 

Your 

Traditions 

Jim Schneider Publisher publisher@islandparent.ca 

Sue Fast Editor editor@islandparent.ca 

Kristine Wickheim Account Manager kristine@islandparent.ca 

RaeLeigh Buchanan Account Manager raeleigh@islandparent.ca 

Island Parent Magazine, published by Island Parent Group Enterprises Ltd., is a 

bimonthly publication that honours and supports parents by providing information on 

resources and businesses for Vancouver Island families. Views expressed are not 

necessarily those of the publisher. No material herein may be reproduced without 

the permission of the publisher. Island Parent is distributed free in selected areas. 

Annual mail subscriptions (7 issues) are available for $21 (GST included). 

Canadian Publication Mail Product Sales Agreement 40051398. ISSN 0838-5505. 

Island Parent Magazine 

250-388-6905 islandparent.ca 

518 Caselton Place, Victoria, BC V8Z 7Y5 

A proud member of 

BC 

4 Island Parent Magazine IslandParent.ca

FASTFORWARD 

Getting Hygge With It 

Okay, so it’s pronounced “hooga”—not higgy—and it’s 

nothing new (unless you’ve been busy raising kids for 

the past few years!), hygge, that state of cozy contentment, 

can feel near impossible when it comes to parenting. 

Meltdown on aisle four? Not feeling it. 

Food flinging across the kitchen and sliding down the wall? 

Nope, still no warm and fuzzies. 

Three-sailing wait? Can’t say the car is feeling so cozy or 

comfortable right about now. 

But don’t stress says Iben Sandahl, parenting expert and author 

of The Danish Way of Parenting: A Guide to Raising the 

Happiest Kids in the World, getting hygge is as easy as lighting 

a candle, making some hot chocolate, sitting down with your 

kids and giving them your full attention. 

At the risk of adding stress to the process, here’s a list of Dos 

and Don’ts that Sandahl recommends to help you set the mood: 

Don’t say “Now we’re really going to hygge”—there will be 

too many expectations that can block the mere presence of it. 

Hygge is an intangible concept, something that occurs in the 

moment and is therefore difficult to stage. 

Do leave personal drama at the door. There are other times 

to focus on any problems you may be having. Hygge is about 

creating a safe place to relax with your family. 

Don’t use iPhones or devices. Turn them off or put them 

away. By giving children our full attention, we make the time 

afterwards much easier as they are then usually ready to do 

something without our interacting. 

Do make it a daily/weekly routine. It makes kids feel safe and 

they will know that it is associated with something nice and 

comfortable. 

Do make an effort to create a nice cozy atmosphere. Light 

some candles, play a game or bake, for example. Part of the 

process is the preparations you do together. 

So no matter what you call it—hygge, hibernating or just 

plain hanging out at home—here’s to finding comfort and joy 

this holiday season with those you love. 

Happy Holidays and all the best in 2023. 

Thanks for voting us a Family Favourite Childcare! 

Happy Holidays 

from the educators at 

Lexie’s Little Bears Child Care! 

“The best way to spread Christmas cheer 

is singing loud for all to hear!” – Elf 

lexieslittlebears.ca 

Waitlist: 250-590-3603 

Programs for Infants/Toddlers/Pre-school Age. 

BC Award of Excellence in Childcare & Prime Minister’s Award of Excellence in Early Childhood Education. 



NEEDTOKNOW 

Kids Write 

4 Kids 

National youth education charity, Ripple Foundation, 

is calling Canadian children and youth in grades four 

to eight to put pen to paper and submit their literary 

creations to its 11th annual Kids Write 4 Kids contest, 

a one-of-a-kind national competition that sees winners 

become published authors before high school. Winner(s) 

will see their works published in ebook and paperback 

editions, with 100% of book sale proceeds benefitting 

a charity of their choice. This is a great opportunity 

for aspiring young writers to put their work in front of 

a panel of accomplished authors, editors and publishers. 

Winners announced in Summer 2023. 

ripplefoundation.ca 

The Gift of 

The Nutcracker 

This Victoria family tradition has everything you 

expect from a Ballet Victoria production. An original 

Christmas tale danced to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score 

of The Nutcracker played by the Victoria Symphony. 

The production boasts lively dance, hilarious pantomime, 

beautiful costumes, magic and as always, 

surprises for the whole family. The live music drives 

the imaginative choreography for the company 

dancers as well as over 30 local young ballet 

students. Watch the story come alive and enthral 

the whole family with Holiday Cheer. December 28 

and 29 at 7:30pm, and December 30 at 2pm. 

balletvictoria.ca 


Backpack 

Project 

To help those living on the streets 

in the capital region, drop off warm 

clothing, sleeping bags, tents and food 

at 12 of the region’s municipal halls. 

Donation boxes are accessible 

Monday to Friday during business 

hours until December 23. Participating 

municipalities include: Central 

Saanich, North Saanich, Sidney, 

Langford, Colwood, Victoria, Highlands, 

Metchosin, Oak Bay, Esquimalt, 

Re/Max in Langford, Saanich, View 

Royal and Sooke. Accessible 24/7: 

Fairfield Gonzales Community Centre. 

For a list of needed items or ways 

to donate cash and gift cards, visit 

instagram.com/p/ 

CkmhRwULcfW/?hl=en. 

Island 

Catholic 

Schools 

Keeps 

Christ in 

Christmas! 

Christ centered 

communities of 

learning…educating 

the “whole” child. 

St. John Paul II School, Port Alberni 

Queen of Angels School, Duncan 

St. Joseph’s School, Victoria 

St. Patrick’s School, Victoria 

St. Andrew’s Regional High School, Victoria 

Registrations for 2023–24 being accepted. 

250-727-6893 

www.cisdv.bc.ca 



Even the Odds 

Staples Canada has partnered with MAP to “Even the Odds,” helping 

eliminate inequities in communities across Canada. Household income, 

education and experiences of discrimination strongly affect our odds 

of staying healthy. Even the Odds will fund research and solutions to 

make the future fair for everyone. This year, Staples has created a Pep 

Rally “Inspiration Pack,” available in-store now for $7.98. All proceeds 

from Inspiration Pack sales will support MAP initiatives. 

staples.ca/a/content/even-the-odds 

Home Energy 

Navigator 

Program 

The Capital Regional District (CRD) has launched 

the Home Energy Navigator program, designed to 

streamline home energy upgrades in the region’s 

single-family homes. The Home Energy Navigator 

Program helps residents undertake low carbon 

home energy retrofits and take advantage of government 

and utility incentives. Connect with an Energy 

Concierge, who is then available throughout 

a retrofit to answer questions, provide support and 

give local, expert advice and guidance to navigate 

the complex world of home energy retrofits. 

homeenergynav.ca 

Hansel & Gretel 

The wicked witch Belladonna Nightshade LOVES 

children…but only when they’re cooked! She’s got 

her eye on sweet Hansel and Gretel. Can Fairy Willow 

Wonder Wand and the good people of PantoLand save 

the children before they become her dinner? Hansel 

and Gretel by Helen Gard runs select evenings and 

matinees from Dec 16–31. All tickets $18 available 

at nanaimotheatregroup.ca. 


LEGO 

Annual 

Art Show 

“What Goes Around” is 

the theme at this year’s 

show, featuring artful 

creations made by local 

youth, students and families. 

Presented by the Cowichan 

Valley Arts Council 

Cowichan Community 

Council and Red Balloon 

Toyshop, this Christmas 

time LEGO show will captivate 

young and old imaginations 

alike and inspire 

attendees to “think outside 

the box” when they’re 

building their own LEGO 

creations. 

cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca 

Thank you for 

voting us your #1 

Family Favourite 

Toy Store! 

I am proud 

to continue 

my support 

of parents, 

families and 

youth in 

Oak Bay- 

Gordon Head. 

2494 Beacon Avenue 

Sidney 

www.buddiestoys.ca 

MLA Murray Rankin 

Oak Bay – Gordon Head 

Murray.Rankin.MLA@leg.bc.ca 250-472-8528 



SHOP 

Give Presents and Presence 

Gift giving is not about the gift. It is an expression of love, 

gratitude, appreciation and generosity. Material items are 

often the “go to” but we underestimate gifts of presence, calm, 

time and energy. 

This year, thoughtfully combine gifts of experience with 

something to enrich it! Enjoy these seven ideas for all ages: 

Owl prowl. When darkness falls early and you can protect 

bedtime, go outside! Gift kids the experience of a neighbourhood 

walk at dusk. Listen for owls like the more common 

Barred and Great Horned species. You don’t need to be an expert. 

Enjoy the chance to experience your senses at night. You’ll 

probably notice bats and other nocturnal creatures! 

Gift item: Reflective vest, armband light, or head lamp. Give 

a membership to organizations like the Rocky Point Observatory 

and enjoy an event together like owl banding at night. 

Throw in a thermos and hot chocolate with marshmallows, 

too. 

Pebble hunt. Gift a rock hunting experience! A beach day 

or two is plenty of time to collect volcanic rock, basalt, chert, 

mica schist, quartz and more. You’ll learn to identify rocks and 

look at stones, rocks and pebbles in a whole new way. 

Gift item: A Field Guide to the Identification of Pebbles by 

Eileen Van der Flier Keller, a magnifying glass or pocket scope, 

and decorative treasure box. Also consider a Rock and Mineral 

Test Kit. The University of Victoria bookstore sells a kit with 

basic tools for hands-on rock, mineral and fossil identification. 

The kit includes “a streak plate, glass plate, hand lens, dropper 

bottle, magnet, nail, penny (from more recent decades) and 

a harness scale in a resealable transparent pouch.” Might as 

well also throw in a copy of Everybody Need a Rock by Byrd 

Baylor. 

It takes time to practice generosity but being 

generous is the best use of our time. – Thich Nhat Hanh 

Tide pooling. We are blessed with countless beaches and tide 

pools. Vancouver Island is home to many species of sea stars, 

crustaceans, mollusks, segmented worms, seaweed and more. 

Treat the children in your life to a day of tide pool viewing. A 

trip to Botanical Beach guarantees lifelong memories. Always 

check the tide table and road conditions first. Do not remove 

any critters! 

Gift item: Marine Life of British Columbia Field Sheets by 

David S. Young. 

Sky watch. Light pollution, a side effect of the industrial 

revolution, has our cities glowing at night. Plan a late-night 

escape to the countryside to watch the stars in your pajamas. 

Or book a camping trip and stay up to star gaze. 

Gift item: Star finder or star wheel. It’s a multilayered cardboard 

disk that lets you dial in the current date and time. Then 

you can see a map of the naked-eye sky at that exact moment! 

Also, source a few books or field guides to the stars. 

Felt together. Needle felting is a great way to be creative 

and reduce stress, and anxiety. It’s also a lot of fun to do with 

someone you love. 

Gift item: Buy pre-made beginner felting kits from a local 

fiber store or wool shop. Or, gift a workshop series with in person 

instruction. 


Dye Ukrainian eggs (pysanky). For the artist in you, those 

reclaiming their Ukrainian roots and those seeking to support 

Ukraine. This ancient pass time decorates eggs with symbols to 

carry meaning and good wishes is both fun and challenging. It’s 

a peaceful way to connect with family or friends. 

Gift item: Buy a beginner pysanky kit which comes with 

dyes, a kistka, beeswax and instructions. Check out options 

from UkrainianEggcessories.com and check out books from the 

library to learn more. 

Carve as a family. Choose your favourite animal to carve 

from soapstone. This hands-on activity is rewarding and excellent 

to do as a family. It’s a lovely keepsake for time well spent, 

together. 

Gift: Studiostone Creative kits have everything you need. 

They are made in Vancouver and are usually for 8 years old 

and up. 

Lindsay Coulter is a writer, educator, facilitator, 

naturalist, community catalyst, soul activist, 

mentor, and dedicated mother of two. She’s the 

Director of Communications, Culture and Community 

at EPIC Learning Centre, a forest and nature 

school in Victoria. Find her @SaneAction on Instagram 

and Facebook. 

Active. 

Creative. 

Connected. 

Recreation 

for all. 

Opportunities for kids of all ages: 

Learn to Skate 

Tot Hockey 

Power Skating 

Swim Lessons 

Lifeguard Training 

Piano 

Ballet 

Dungeons and Dragons 

Plus, 

opportunities 

for adults 

of all ages 

too! 

Babysitter and Home Alone Classes 

Pro-D Day and Spring Break Camps 

WINTER REGISTRATION OPENS DECEMBER 6: 

victoria.ca/recreation 250.361.0732 



MOM’SPOV 

Letting Go of 

Holiday Expectations 

Let’s imagine for a minute: What would it be like if this 

holiday season and beyond, into 2023, we all collectively 

let go of expectations—those we have of others 

and, especially, of ourselves. Now I don’t mean expectations 

of good behaviour and basic responsibility, being kind and 

courteous, following safety rules, etc. I mean all the extras: 

the unspoken “shoulds” and the blatantly broadcast Instaimpossibilities. 

Pressure to over-perform, whether at work, at home or 

socially is real, and it can be suffocating. The feeling is especially 

profound at this time of year. 

Before every holiday season I try to give myself a little 

pep talk, reminders that the most important “things” are 

not things at all, and that it doesn’t need to be about endless 

baking or crafting or shopping. 

However, as the season nears, I inevitably feel my anxiety 

stirring: “Am I doing enough? Have I put enough thought 

and effort into this gift to make up for the fact that it isn’t 

expensive? Will there be enough magical moments and core 

memory-making for my son? 

Will it ever be enough? Will I ever be enough?” 

Spending any amount of time-consuming modern media 

can certainly trigger and amplify these doubts. I know I’m a 

good mom, and my son’s safety, growth and happiness are 

my top priorities. I work hard to make sure he thrives and 

knows he is loved. My family and friends know I love them 

and I am here for them. I am kind and as generous as my 

means allow. 

But even if I try to look at this objectively, all it takes is 

a few minutes on social media seeing what other moms are 

doing and I’m chastising myself for not doing more, more, 

more! 

These are challenging times. Many are cinching financial 

belts a little tighter, and the pandemic has also inspired a lot 

of us to re-examine where we spend our soul-energy. Do we 

grind ourselves to death to do All. The. Things. or do we 

give more time to the experiences and people who bring us 

joy and recharge our batteries instead of draining them? 

And do people we care about need us to turn ourselves 

inside-out to produce tangible “proof” that we love them, 

just because it is a particular time of year? 

Absolutely not. 

When I look way, WAY back to when I was my son’s age, 

my best memories are not those of how many “must-do” 

activities we crammed in over the holidays, or how perfect 

the table settings looked at Christmas dinner, or whether the 

Elf-on-the-Shelf entertained us sufficiently with its nightly 

hi-jinx. No way. I remember my grandpa’s jokes, my family’s 

laughter, my mom’s delicious baking (that she made because 

she actually loves baking), the comfort of recycled decorations 

and familiar rituals and the warmth of being together. 

I don’t remember many of the presents I’ve received dur- 


BUSINESSES 

YOUNEEDTOKNOW 

These local businesses are family-focused and 

committed to our community and helping you. 

P iano Lessons 

for your child or teen 

in your home 

ing my life, but I definitely remember how people have 

been present for me, with me. It’s such a clichéd statement: 

“Bring your “presence,” not “presents,” but I think a lot 

of us (including me!) need to re-examine this idea, that we 

don’t have to show up for people with all the doo-dads, 

bells, whistles and trimmings. We just have to really, authentically 

show up. And not just for the holidays, but 

throughout the year. 

For me, this means checking in with people I love and 

spending time with them. Not having to have “something 

to do,” but just being there, together, doing everyday 

things or even nothing at all. This means listening to each 

other and helping where we can. This means not making 

myself cranky by overburdening myself with extra things 

I think I “should” do because everyone else is and instead 

soaking up the moments I have with my family and friends 

as they are, right now. 

My son would likely not remember the hours of planning 

and work I could put into craft projects or perfectly 

colour-co-ordinated decorations. He would remember that 

Mama was busy and stressed out and doing things that he 

couldn’t be a part of. 

Instead, I believe (and hope) he will remember all the 

games I play with him (that he usually beats me at), our 

rock-hounding adventures on the beach and hopefully our 

nightly stories when he snuggles in and we go on adventures 

together within the pages of a favourite book. These 

things don’t get as much of a chance to happen when there 

is too much doing, doing, doing and stuff, stuff, stuff. 

This year I remind myself that going overboard does not 

make someone feel more special, or more loved. Connection 

does. So we might not have a Pintrest-worthy holiday 

display or piles of gifts, or particularly remarkable adventures 

to recount, but we will have laughter, and joy, and 

lots of love with our special people. And I think that is 

absolutely enough. 

www.musicalia.ca 

250-888-2432 

Serving Oak Bay and communities close by 

Tired of packing lunches? Try a 

weekly delivery of school lunches! 

HEALTHY 

CONVENIENT 

AFFORDABLE 

Kelly McQuillan is a writer, musician, teacher 

and fledgling mother living in Comox. 

kellymcquillanwriter.weebly.com, 

music teacher: kellymcquillan.com. 

ThisWeeksLunch.com/ 

How-It-Works 



HEALTH 

Take Back Your Health 

When your kid is sick, you don’t hesitate to do anything 

you can to make them feel better. You also 

probably try your best to keep up with all their well 

visits at the doctor. But when it comes to yourself, you may 

ignore your health and put off needed tests. Or you’re unaware 

that some of these tests are even recommended for you. This 

can especially be true if you don’t have a family physician— 

which unfortunately is the case for roughly 900,000 British 

Columbians! 

Do not put your health off any longer! There are some important 

tests you need to get to stay on top of any health issues—and 

you can access them even if you don’t currently have 

a family physician. Remember, early detection and prevention 

can help save your life! 

Cervix 

Regular Cervical Screening (typically referred to as a PAP 

test) is recommended for anyone who has a cervix. These 

screenings should be done every three years starting when you 

become sexually active or age 25, whichever comes first, right 

up to age 69. If you have a family history or have had previous 

issues with your cervix, it’s recommended that you get tested 

more frequently. 

If you don’t have a family doctor, PAP tests can often be 

booked at local walk-in clinics or urgent care centres by phoning 

them directly or visiting their websites. Depending on which 

community you live in there may also be women’s health clinics 

or sexual health centres you can visit for cervical screening. 

Breasts 

The BC Cancer Agency recommends that anyone with 

breasts get a mammogram every two years starting at age 40. 

You DO NOT need a doctor’s referral to get a mammogram! 

Simply visit the BC Cancer Breast Screening website to find the 

screening location near you. Or phone the number listed to find 

out when the mobile screening unit will be in your area. If you 

have a family history of breast cancer you may wish to speak to 

your family doctor, a telehealth doctor or a walk-in clinic doctor 

about early screening. 

Colon 

After age 50 everyone should start having regular FIT tests 

(Fecal immunochemical test). These tests can be done quickly 


and easily in your own home with a kit you pick up from a 

local laboratory. You will need a doctor’s referral to access a 

FIT test kit, and this can be acquired by a telehealth doctor or 

walk-in clinic if you don’t have a family doctor. 

Lungs 

Not everyone needs lung cancer screening. However, if you 

are over the age of 55 and are a current smoker or have a 20- 

year history of smoking at any time in the past you should be 

screened. 

If you believe you are eligible for lung cancer screening or 

have questions talk to a doctor or call the BC Lung Screening 

Program at 1-877-717-5864. 

Skin 

It’s recommended that everyone self-checks their skin at least 

twice a year, starting as young as possible. Make note of any 

suspicious moles or spots and take pictures of them to see if 

they change over time. Have a loved one help you check your 

scalp, back and other areas you can’t see properly. 

If you notice a mole has changed or find one that looks suspicious 

see a doctor for assessment. Go to your family doctor 

or walk-in clinic, if possible. However, a telehealth doctor can 

assess your skin from digital pictures you send them, plus they 

can refer you to someone in your area if they cannot make a 

proper diagnosis online. 

There are several skin cancer screening clinics throughout 

BC, however, most do charge for the screening unless you have 

a history of abnormal moles and/or are referred by a doctor. 

Mental Health 

If you feel yourself struggling with depression, anxiety and/or 

any other mental health issue don’t hesitate to get help. Consult 

with your family doctor, a walk-in clinic doctor or a telehealth 

doctor to get advice. Or you can visit AnxietyCanada.com or 

call either 310-6789 or 811 at any time to access resources. 

811 

811 is a particularly important number for everyone to remember. 

It gives you a 24-hour hotline to a nurse, as well as 

access to nutritionists and pharmacists. The staff at 811 can 

give medical information and advice, connect you with an online 

doctor in urgent situations and provide any other physical 

or mental health resources you may need. If you do not have a 

regular health care provider, the staff at 811 can help you get 

on a waitlist for a physician or nurse practitioner. 

Erika Palmer is a writer living in Victoria with 

her husband and daughter. She believes most 

problems can be solved with a good cup of tea 

and a huge piece of chocolate. 

IMAX® VICTORIA ANNUAL PASS 

A BIG HOLIDAY GIFT 

IN A SMALL PACKAGE 

ON SALE NOW 

Buy online at imaxvictoria.com/annual-pass or in person at our box office 



HEALTH 

Raising Kids with a 

Healthy Body Image 

At the onset of a new year, we find 

ourselves setting intentions and 

making goals for the twelve months 

to come. Many of us may want to get 

“back on track” with fitness or perhaps 

even set a weight goal for the new 

year. I often think about how the goals 

we set as adults, and the surrounding 

cyclone of body-centric messaging on 

the covers of magazines, on the radio 

and online every January affects the 

growing minds and perspectives of our 

children. 

Body image is far from just a “girls” 

issue’ or a “women’s issue.” In fact, 

in my practice I have seen many boys 

and men who have struggled with body 

image challenges and low self-esteem 

stemming from how they perceive their 

appearance. For girls and women, the 

issues tend to revolve around striving 

for an unattainable “standard” that 

usually involves being thin. For boys 

and men, it can be more about wanting 

to look muscular. Here are some 

suggestions I often share in my practice 

that you as a parent can take to support 

the development of a healthy body 

image in your child. 

Easy on the appearance-based 

praise 

As beautiful as we all know our children 

are, you don’t want your child to 

feel like they’re earning your love by 

being “pretty” or “handsome.” Children 

who receive a lot of appearancebased 

attention from parents can 

sometimes mistakenly create the connection 

that their looks are connected 

with their worth. Your child needs to 

feel loved for who they are, for their 

internal self, with no strings attached, 

ever. Outward appearance takes many 

shapes and forms; everyone is unique 

and that’s part of what makes the 

world interesting. I suggest aiming for 

the “five to one rule”: for every time 

you give an appearance-based compliment, 

for the next five compliments, 

focus on inner qualities like: a positive 

attitude, diligence, creativity, empathy, 

intelligence or compassion. 

Stay current and show an interest 

in your child’s life 

To support healthy development, 

parents need to understand what’s 

going on in the life of their child, as 

well as what’s happening in the world 

around them. Think of it as keeping a 

barometer on what matters to them. 

How are they feeling, acting? Who are 

they playing with, what interests them? 

And what are their peers interested in? 

It might not seem like much, but simply 

staying current in the life of your child 

sets you up to be there for them in a 

meaningful way, like when it comes to 

body image. 

Establish smart boundaries, 

online and offline 

Boundaries have a lot to do with 

body image. Why? Because body image 

has a lot to do with what messages 

we’re willing to allow into our minds, 

and the power we choose to give those 

images we see and the words we hear. 

Keep an eye on the apps, games and 

social media your child is using, watching 

for content or even online friendships 

that might be doing more harm 

than good. Don’t be afraid to enforce 

standards—uninstall an app or game 

if you don’t think it’s appropriate, and 

take the time to explain your rationale 

to your child in a loving, blame-free 

way. You can also have conversations 

with your child about balance, about 

not exclusively liking things, commenting 

on things, posting things, that are 

appearance-driven. 


Learn a new sport or refine 

your skills: come join our 

rock climbing teams! 

Nurture relationships IRL 

When kids are developing relationships 

with others, they’re practicing 

empathy, they’re paying attention to the 

wants and needs of another and they’re 

considering community. 

There’s no better time to build this 

intrinsically-motivated foundation 

than during childhood. That’s because 

they’re still developing that schema, 

the operating system, hardwiring them 

to engage with the world in a positive 

way. Raising your child to see the 

world as a community, and them being 

an active participant—a change agent 

who is connected and belonging—will 

help to instill that sense of purpose 

that guards against preoccupation with 

superficial things like appearance. Ultimately, 

encouraging friendships is a 

moderating factor for a healthy self image, 

but it also helps reframe the narrative 

about “what really matters.” 

Registration 

for recreational 

and competitive 

teams open now. 

All levels 

welcome! 

Ages 6–18. 

Details and registration at climbtheboulders.com 

The Boulders Climbing Gym 

1627 Stelly’s Cross Road | Saanichton, BC | 250.544.0310 

Despite the gains made with “body 

positive” messaging, and a general 

move as a society towards embracing 

diversity and celebrating differences, we 

still have a long way to go. Supporting 

your child’s development while modeling 

body-positive behaviour will help 

mitigate against negative body image 

influences as they progress into their 

teens. And what better time to start 

than the new year? 

Dr. Jillian Roberts is a child psychologist, 

UVic professor and mother. She is the author of 

Kids, Sex and Screens: Raising Strong, Resilient 

Children in the Sexualized Digital 

Age and CEO and founder 

of MindKey Health mental 

health clinics with locations 

in Victoria, Sidney and soonto-be 

in the Western Communities. 

drjillianroberts.com 



WHAT’SFORDINNER 

Simplifying Your Traditions 

It’s easy to get caught up in the too muchness that comes 

with this time of year. Regardless of your personal holiday 

traditions, there are gifts for teachers, cards to be mailed, 

travel planning, parties and concerts. Once you get caught up 

in the whole winter season it can be hard to find that bit of 

space to relax. 

In the past, my husband and I found our bit of space by 

dividing up the children’s concerts (one year we had five concerts 

in a span of two weeks). We’ve likewise juggled our party 

invitations. And last year we bought absolutely everyone the 

same gift (coffee shop gift cards work for teachers and grandparents)! 

Here are three recipes that are designed for both comfort and 

relaxation. They are simple, healthy and delicious. Perfect for 

adding a bit of serenity to the season. 

Light & Frothy 5-Minute Eggnog 

(Time: 5 minutes) 

Whether you love store-bought eggnog or not, this recipe is for you. 

While the ingredients and flavours are similar to a carton of eggnog, 

this frothy drink is pretty different from the custard-based eggnog you 

are probably used to. Best of all, it only takes 5 minutes to prepare! It’s 

sure to be a new holiday favourite. 

4 eggs (separated into yolks and whites) 

1 ⁄3 cup of powdered sugar, to taste 

2 cups milk 

1 cup whipping cream 

1 tsp freshly grated nutmeg 

1. Separate the eggs, placing the yolks in a large bowl, and the 

whites in a container for whipping. (My stand mixer has a bowl, but a 

tall sided measuring cup works as well). 

2. Beat egg yolks with a whisk until the colour starts to lighten (about 

1 minute). 

3. Add the sugar and stir until completely dissolved. 

4. Stir in milk, cream, and nutmeg. 

5. Whip the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Don’t over mix or 

the foam will collapse. This is much quicker using an electric eggbeater 

or stand mixer. Just make sure your bowl has tall sides or it may splash 

as you whip. 

6. When the egg whites are a nice thick foam, gently fold them into 

the egg yolk mixture. Serve immediately or refrigerate and serve within 

3 hours. This recipe uses a lot less sugar than traditional eggnog, so if 

it’s not sweet enough, feel free to add a dusting of icing sugar. 

7. This recipe contains raw eggs, so it is not recommended for pregnant 

women, children under the age of 1 year, or anyone who may be 

immunocompromised. 

Cheesy Green Pancakes 

Vegetable and cheese pancakes for dinner? Yes please! This easy 

meal packs all the food groups into a form that kids love. If you think 

your kids might balk at the onion and garlic, then feel free to skip it. But 

it really adds a lot of flavour to these pancakes. 

Pancakes 

1 bunch of greens 3 Tbsp of diced onion 

(chard, kale or spinach) 1 clove of garlic 

3 eggs 1 cup of ricotta or cottage cheese 

2 Tbsp oil 1⁄2 cup flour 

1 ⁄2 tsp salt 

Toppings 

Cheddar cheese Sliced tomato 

Scrambled eggs Sour cream 

Bacon bits Diced green onion 

1. Wash and trim the greens, removing the stems. You want about 3 

cups of loosely packed greens. 

2. Place the greens in a blender with the onion and garlic. Add the 

eggs, cheese and oil. Blend until the greens are fully pureed. Add the 

flour and salt. Pulse a few more times to fully mix. 

3. Warm a frying pan on medium heat. 

4. Pour in 1 ⁄4 cup of batter. 

5. The pancake is ready to flip when it is bubbling in the middle and 

dry around the edges. Flip, then cook the other side for about 1 minute. 

6. Serve immediately or keep warm in a 300°F oven until all the pancakes 

are ready to serve. 

7. We enjoy eating these pancakes like open-faced sandwiches with 

cheese, tomato and egg. They’re also delicious with baked potato toppings. 


Thank you for 

your continued 

Love and Support! 

Turkish Red Lentil Soup (Time: 30 minutes) 

I first encountered this particular red lentil soup when cycling 

through northern Turkey. It was the only thing available for dinner at 

the local bar/restaurant/cafe that was the only place to eat in the small 

town where we were staying. At the time, it felt the most amazing dish I 

had ever enjoyed. Likely a healthy dose of hunger was one of the main 

ingredients. Regardless, it is still one of my favourite comfort meals. 

A simple, one-pot dish that is warmly flavoured (without being too 

spicy). The red paprika oil isn’t necessary, but it does add a bit of seasonality 

to this otherwise very easy dish. 

Soup: 

1 ⁄4 cup olive oil 2 large onions 

2 large carrots 1 can of tomato paste 

1 Tbsp cumin 2 tsp paprika 

1 tsp dried mint 1 ⁄2 tsp thyme 

1 ⁄2 tsp oregano 1 ⁄2 tsp black pepper 

2 cups red lentils 4 cups water 

4 cups broth 1 tsp salt, to taste 

Red paprika oil: 

1 ⁄4 cup olive oil 1 Tbsp paprika (sweet or hot) 

1 ⁄2 tsp red pepper flakes 

1. Chop the onion and carrots. They don’t need to be finely diced as 

the soup is pureed before serving. 

2. Saute the vegetables in olive oil until the onions are sweating, 

about 3 minutes. 

3. Add in the herbs and spices and toss to coat the vegetables. Then 

add in the tomato paste, stir and cook for 1 minute. 

4. Add in the lentils, water, broth and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce 

the heat to medium. Cover the pot halfway with the lid and leave 

it to simmer until the lentils have fallen apart, about 15 minutes. 

5. Meanwhile, make the paprika oil by mixing the oil, paprika and red 

pepper flakes together in a small pot. Warm the oil on medium until you 

see the paprika just starting to bubble, immediately remove from the 

heat and set aside. 

6. When the lentils are cooked, puree the soup with a stick blender 

or traditional blender. Taste and add more salt if necessary. The exact 

amount will depend on the saltiness of the broth. 

7. Serve with a drizzle of paprika oil. 

250-590-9298 

We’re locally 

owned and 

currently 

1563 Pandora Ave 

Victoria BC V8R 6P9 

Nurture Your Natural Curiosity 

Guided Nature Outings & Events 

Learn about the fascinating natural and cultural history of the 

region from CRD Parks Naturalists and Cultural Programmers. 

> Educational and interactive guided walks and drop-in events 

> Free or low cost for a variety of ages and abilities 

Emillie Parrish loves having adventures with 

her two busy children. You can find more of her 

recipes in her recently released cookbook 

Fermenting Made Simple. fermentingforfoodies.com 

Check out the full calendar at www.crd.bc.ca/parks 

Capital Regional District | Regional Parks 

@crd_bc | CapitalRegionalDistrict 

crdparks@crd.bc.ca | 250.478.3344 



KIDS’READS 

The Magic of Make-Believe 

Do you regularly hear your child complain about bedtime 

and having to go to sleep? Then perhaps it’s time for your 

child to think about how the bed feels when it hears that 

night after night after night. Time for Bed’s Story by Monica 

Arnaldo (Kids Can Press, 2020) gives you just that. A story 

by the sticker-covered springboard about how kicking and 

the drooling makes it very hard for bed to sleep at night. 

And all Bed wants is for its child to think of Bed’s feelings 

when it’s bedtime. For ages 4 to 7. 

Ray by Marianna Coppo (Tundra, 2020), is all about a 

lightbulb named Ray. His life in the closet is pretty boring, 

so boring that he often slips into dreamless sleeps. Until one 

day something magical happens and Ray’s life is forever 

changed. This story is a beautifully illustrated tale about the 

wonders of the outdoors and the magical powers of imagination. 

For ages 4 to 7. 

Once your child’s imagination has been woken up, they 

might like some ideas about how to get their ideas out of 

their minds and into the world for others to enjoy. If that’s 

the case, then Studio: A Place for Art to Start by Emily Arrow 

and illustrated by Little Friends of Printmaking could 

be a good book for you. This brightly coloured tale follows 

some bunnies around as they learn about different kinds of 

art and the studios where they’re made as they try to find the 

perfect place for them to make their own art. For ages 4 to 

7. 

Imagine you and your family are home one day and suddenly 

the power goes out. You tell the kids not to worry 

because it’ll be back on in a moment. But then that moment 

stretches and to them it feels like an eternity has passed 

and the lights are still out. 

How do you pass the time? 

In some cultures and families, you’d tell stories. If you 

don’t think your imagination is up to the task of coming up 

with a tale, I bet your kids could. And if they can’t, here are 

a few stories about dreams and imaginings that might spark 

your own creativity. 

Story Boat by Kyo Maclear and illustrated by Rashin 

Kheiriyeh (Tundra, 2020) highlights the wonders of a young 

refugee child’s imagination as they travel across the water to 

find somewhere to belong. Kheiriyeh’s drawings are captivating 

as Rashin turns ideas about what “here” means into cozy 

cups of tea and ceramic sailboats with apricot blanket sails 

that provide warmth and safety through a scary trek. If you 

have ever found yourself struggling to explain what a refugee 

is without delving deeply into the scary situations they 

face, this book is for you. For ages 4 to 7. 


When Emily Was Small by Lauren Soloy (Tundra,2020) 

reminds children that even great painters like Emily Carr 

were once small. In this tale which is based off of Carr’s 

autobiography, Soloy goes into the time before Carr was a 

famous painter and focuses on a small part of her childhood 

when her vast imaginings sometimes made her feel out of 

place, but always opened her up to a magical world right 

outside her door. For ages 4 to 7. 

While I hope it doesn’t take a power outage (or another 

wave of sickness) to get you and your family to sit down 

and enjoy a tale or two, I do hope that you are able to spend 

some time with your loved ones—maybe even curled up in a 

blanket fort that’s transformed into a fairy castle or a friendly 

dragon’s den—so you can all enjoy a good book or five. 

Christina Van Starkenburg lives in Victoria 

with her husband, children and cat. She is the author 

of One Tiny Turtle: A Story You Can Colour and many 

articles. To read more of her work and learn about her 

upcoming books visit christinavanstarkenburg.com. 

Facebook: facebook.com/christinavanstarkenburg 

and Twitter: @Christina_VanS. 



CUTITOUT! 

Show a Little Tenderness 

If 90 percent of our communication is body language what is 

our face saying? 

If part of a healthy attachment with our children and 

partners is to give support, to soothe them and keep the environment 

safe, our non-verbal messages are a part of this. If we 

can meet these needs, family members in turn will be able to 

listen more fully, care about requests that are being made and 

experience a sense of trust. 

While the words we use are important, our physical and 

emotional cues build the connection. When we listen to our 

children and partners, it isn’t enough just to use the “skill” of 

repeating back what they have said and take a guess at how 

they are feeling. They need to see that we genuinely care and 

that we are curious to learn more. If we don’t show them, our 

words seem transactional. If I listen to you, then I expect that 

you will get over this thing that you are complaining about! Or, 

I’m not okay if you are upset, so let’s get this thing fixed. 

If you are having a difficult conversation or hearing someone’s 

pain, slow down. Show that you care with a soft face, and 

relaxed body language. Express and physically show tenderness 

and see how much easier things go. Practicing this brings calmness 

to everyone. 

Children can be hypersensitive to our moods and teens will 

see anger where there isn’t any. If our adult relationship is experiencing 

a disconnect, we can easily hear what we fear rather 

than what is actually being said. Monitor the people you’re 

speaking with closely so that you can catch any signs of frustration, 

annoyance, hurt feelings or stress. Look at their eyes, face 

and body language and listen to their tone of voice. Are they in 

distress? Be willing to pause and soothe your loved one. Even 

if you think you weren’t yelling or speaking with a tone, don’t 

argue. Tend to them, soothe them. 

Be prepared to pivot from making a point to being present. 

There are many reasons to do this, one being that when someone 

feels unsafe or distressed, they can’t hear you anyway. Pay 

attention to the process of how you are communicating. If you 

have something important to discuss, ask your loved one this; 

What can I do to make it more comfortable for you to hear 

what I have to say? 

Dr. Allison Rees is a parent educator, counsellor 

and coach at LIFE Seminars (Living in Families 

Effectively), lifeseminars.com. 

In-Person & 

On-Line Options 

STAGES 

Performing Arts School 

since 1980 

Come Dance With Us 

• Offering classes for Teens & Pre-Teens in Jazz, 

Ballet, Lyrical, Tap. Musical Theatre, Acrobatics & 

Hip Hop, in a non-competitive atmosphere. 

• Not sure which class to take? 

- Try a Drop-In: No hassle, No Obligation. 

Daytime Pre-School Classes 

for the little angels... 

STAGES Performing Arts School 

#301 1551 Cedar Hill X Rd 

Call 250-384-3267 Email us at: stagesdance@shaw.ca 

Or visit our website: www.stagesdance.com 


Nature-Based Counselling 

With Thriving Roots 

BRANDED CONTENT 

Humans are naturally designed to belong in nature. We’re 

ecological beings who have evolved alongside trees, rivers, 

birds, and mountains. So, when we are supported in 

connecting to nature in an embodied, mindful, and interactive 

way, our nervous system regulates and new brain patterns 

form, leading to a deeper sense of ecological connection, belonging 

and empowerment. The therapeutic world is beginning 

to realize this and embrace the power of nature connection in 

healing and development in ways that are very exciting. 

It’s for these reasons that Thriving Roots has opened a new 

nature-based Counselling Services division in addition to our 

Wilderness School. This way, youth and adult clients can work 

in more specialized, intimate settings with trained counsellors 

who are themselves deeply connected to nature. We use regulating 

sensory activities, therapeutic games, mindfulness practices 

and reflective questioning to help clients explore their 

inner world, while finding comfort, regulation, and resilience 

directly from nature. This way, nature itself becomes a source 

of healing and strength that clients can draw from in their dayto-day 

lives. 

While most of our counseling focus is designed to take place 

outside in private green spaces or parks, we also provide indoor 

and online options depending on preference or weather 

conditions. Our clients include youth, teens, adults, couples 

and families and our meetup locations are based in Saanich, 

Westshore, Sidney, and the Highlands. 

Curious about a nature-based counselling approach? Book a 

free introductory meet and greet with Vanya Laporte: vanya@ 

thrivingroots.org or visit our website: thrivingroots.org. 



Healthy Families, Happy Families 

Child, Youth 

& Family 

Public Health 

South Island Health Units 

Esquimalt 250-519-5311 

Gulf Islands 250-539-3099 

(toll-free number for office in Saanichton) 

Peninsula 250-544-2400 

Saanich 250-519-5100 

Saltspring Island 250-538-4880 

Sooke 250-519-3487 

Victoria 250-388-2200 

West Shore 250-519-3490 

Central Island Health Units 

Duncan 250-709-3050 

Ladysmith 250-755-3342 

Lake Cowichan 250-749-6878 

Nanaimo 250-755-3342 

Nanaimo 250-739-5845 

Princess Royal 

Parksville/Qualicum 250-947-8242 

Port Alberni 250-731-1315 

Tofino 250-725-4020 

North Island Health Units 

Campbell River 250-850-2110 

Courtenay 250-331-8520 

Kyuquot Health Ctr 250-332-5289 

‘Namgis Health Ctr 250-974-5522 

Port Hardy 250-902-6071 

islandhealth.ca/our-locations/ 

health-unit-locations 

PARENTING 

Nobody’s Perfect 

And that’s okay 

wish I wasn’t so irritable at my kids 

I and could be more like how they ask 

of me. 

The fulfillment is astounding; motherhood 

is the purest state of living that I’ve 

ever experienced— but loving them is 

unconditional and it comes with many 

challenges. 

I can be patient and mindfully compassionate 

to a point— but I can also regretfully 

snap at my wits end. 

I see a lot of posts going around about 

early childhood trauma and how to 

speak, act and do better for our children. 

I agree that in an ideal world it’s true— 

we should continually rephrase, nurture 

and encourage *calmly* regardless of 

any behaviour. 

What I don’t agree with is this implied 

accusation that we are damaging our 

children if we don’t adhere consistently 

to this standard of new-age parenting. 

For abrupt frustration when we know 

the older ones know better and it feels 

like they’re testing us at a cellular level. 

I think we should apologize to them 

often, and after reflecting, manage those 

big feelings with compassion as best we 

can when they come up again 

I won’t apologize though, for being a 

human being in my evolution of parenting—it’s 

a damn hard Olympic sport. 

I think we need more real-life mothers 

sharing how hard this is all actually is 

with unapologetic solidarity and a side of 

forgot-to-gentle-parent. 

We need to agree that we all have different 

levels of tolerance on different days 

for the exact same behaviour. 

We need to know that when we are being 

tested, that it’s not a time to feel judgment, 

instead a time to feel seen. 

I think we must learn in hindsight and 

discern teachings from our children; to 

Changes with BC Medical Services Plan 

premiums mean that families eligible for partial 

payment of some medical services and access 

to some income-based programs now must 

apply for Supplementary Benefits through the 

Government of BC. Applications can be done 

online and take approximately 15 minutes. 

Families who previously qualified for MSP 

Premium Assistance should not need to re-apply 

if taxes are completed yearly. It is advised to 

confirm coverage before proceeding with 

treatment to avoid paying out of pocket. 

For more information, visit gov.bc.ca/gov/ 

content/health/health-drug-coverage/msp/ 

bc-residents/benefits/services-covered-bymsp/supplementary-benefits 

I think all we can do is try and aim for 

our best every day, but I refuse to feel 

shame: 

For my lack of patience when overstimulated. 

For my cyclically-imbalanced mood 

swings. 

For utilizing screen time for sanity. 

For the projection of my own childhood 

wounds that I still need time to 

heal. 

look at challenges as an opportunity to 

not repeat history, but also to see our 

own instabilities as indicators to find 

more support and seek self-care. 

We must know that we don’t always 

have to do everything right in order to be 

a good mom. We are, and we need to put 

ourselves first, too. 

I hope this message helps normalize 

any fear or sadness parents are going 

through in transitions, especially when 

other younger siblings are involved. 


A Poem for My Eldest 

Sometimes I forget how little you are 

because of how fast you’ve grown. 

Sometimes I “expect” too much 

considering everything you’ve shown. 

You are my eldest, so big and so brave. 

And yet 

we’re at a crossroads once more 

A reality check when time slowed down 

and we couldn’t get you out the door. 

School can be daunting and so can 

transitions 

I see it now loud and clear 

You need me like they do, 

that nurturing attention 

normalizing everything that you fear 

So I keep in my glovebox 

this weathered old photo 

the one they taped up at your cubby 

Those days I’d drop you off 

you held on so tightly 

letting it go was so hard on mommy 

Then I felt it all flood back in 

with warm tears and tight embrace 

my sensitive little boy 

who’s still in there 

Mum needed this reminder 

To slow down and tell you 

I’m here, I love you 

your heart, we will repair 

Hudson’s recent artwork missing us as we 

navigate big feelings with school time 

transitions and anxieties. 

Natasha Mills is a twin mom of three residing on the island now for nearly 30 years. She has found a creative outlet in documenting 

the real moments of parenthood—the relatable highs and challenging lows. She has also found a passion in writing her 

experience of motherhood and connecting with many like-minded parents in her community and abroad. @mommamillsblog 

FRANK JAMESON 

COMMUNITY 

CENTRE 

your destination for active living 

Visit us for all your fitness, aquatic, arts & culture needs. 

See a complete list of programs and schedules in our Activity Guide at 

www.ladysmith.ca/programs 

INFO / REGISTRATION 250.245.6424 | ladysmith.ca 

follow us / ladysmithPRC subscribe prc@ladysmith.ca 



Family 

Favourites 

The Family Favourite results are in! Who has the best 

products, services and experiences? We asked and 

you answered. Developed to recognize quality family 

retailers and service providers in our community. Our 

readers were invited to vote online at islandparent.ca for 

their family favourites in 48 categories. The response was 

phenomenal. Thank you to everyone who voted and sent 

us such wonderful feedback. We have tallied your votes— 

here are your 2022 Island Parent Family Favourites! 

Favourite 

Outing 

LIVE SPORTING EVENT 

Winner: Victoria Royals 

Runners Up: Harbour Cats, Grizzlies 

CAMPGROUND 

Winner: Goldstream 

Runners Up: Gordon Bay, French Beach 

PLAYGROUND 

Winner: Parksville Community Beach 

Runners Up: Beacon Hill, Cadboro Bay Gyro Playground 

HIKE 

Winner: Mount Douglas 

Runners Up: Hole in the Wall, Mystic Beach 

BEACH 

Winner: Long Beach 

Runners Up: Willows, Esquimalt Lagoon 

PARK 

Winner: Osborne Bay Regional Park Beach 

Runners Up: Beacon Hill, Macaulay Point 

ATTRACTION 

Winner: Malahat Skywalk 

Runners Up: BC Aviation Museum, Royal BC Musuem & IMAX 

FAMILY GETAWAY 

Winner: Crystal Cove Tofino 

Runners Up: Mount Washington, Big Splash Waterslides 

Favourite Retail 

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING 

Winner: Once upon a child 

Runners Up: Abby Sprouts, Woodland Kids Shawnigan Lake 

TWEENS & TEENS CLOTHING 

Winner: H&M 

Runners Up: American Eagle, Beyond the Usual Chemainus 

BABY 

Winner: Momease 

Runners Up: Sugar Sandwich, TJ’s 

TOYS 

Winner: Buddies Toys 

Runners Up: The Red Balloon Toy Shop, Kaboodles 

SHOES 

Winner: Baggins 

Runners Up: DSW, Beyond the Usual Chemainus 

WOMEN’S FASHION 

Winner: Smoking Lily 

Runners Up: Hudson’s Bay, Aritzia 

CONSIGNMENT 

Winner: Once upon a child 

Runners Up: Kidsville Parksville, Kinderbeez Duncan 

GROCERY 

Winner: Red Barn Market James Bay 

Runners Up: Root Cellar, Market on Millstream 

HEALTH & ORGANIC 

Winner: Lifestyle Markets 

Runners Up: The Vitamin Shop, Market on Millstream 

FARMERS MARKET 

Winner: Moss Street Market 

Runners Up: Duncan Farmers Market, Esquimalt Farmers Market 

BOOKS 

Winner: Bolen Books 

Runners Up: Russell Books, Fireside Books 

PHARMACY 

Winner: Heart Pharmacy Shelbourne 

Runners Up: Fort Royal, Pure Pharmacy Superior St 

PET STORE 

Winner: Healthy Spot 

Runners Up: Growlies, a pet’s life 

PET GROOMING 

Winner: Collar & Comb 

Runners Up: Petsmart, Pawsitive 

GARDEN CENTRE 

Winner: Dinter Nursery Duncan 

Runners Up: Garden Works, The Artisan’s Garden 

BIKE SHOP 

Winner: North Park Bike Shop 

Runners Up: Westshore Bicycles, Oak Bay Bicycles 

CAR DEALERSHIP 

Winner: Howie’s Car Corral 

Runners Up: Harris Dodge, Galaxy Motors 

26 Island Parent Magazine 

IslandParent.ca

Favourite Children , s... 

PRESCHOOL/CHILDCARE 

Winner: Little Phoenix 

Runners Up: Lexie’s Little Bears, CEFA 

ARTS OR THEATRE PROGRAM 

Winner: Stages Dance 

Runners Up: Theatre SKAM, Kaleidoscope Theatre 

BIRTHDAY PARTY LOCATION 

Winner: Flying Squirrel 

Runners Up: Lizzy Lee & Me, Victoria Gymnastics 

SUMMER CAMP 

Winner: Victoria Gymnastics 

Runners Up: WEA Westcoast Educational Adventures, 

Pearson College 

OVERNIGHT CAMP 

Winner: Camp Qwanoes 

Runners Up: Camp Thunderbird, Camp Pringle 

RECREATION CENTRE 

Winner: Saanich Commonwealth Place 

Runners Up: Oak Bay Recreation Centre, 

Frank Jameson Community Centre 

EDUCATION SERVICE 

Winner: Sylvan Learning Centre 

Runners Up: Kumon, Nabvigate NIDES 

Favourite 

Personal Service 

ESTHETIC SALON 

Winner: Foxy Box 

Runners Up: Willow Stream Spa, Laser Obsession Beauty Spa 

OPTOMETRIST 

Winner: Eye Etiquette 

Runners Up: Vista Eye Care, Cordova Bay Optometry 

ORTHODONTICS 

Winner: Dr. Vohn Rosang 

Runners Up: Dr. Murdoch/Ocean’s Edge, Dr. Kirk Bartlett 

HAIR 

Winner: Copper & Ash 

Runners Up: Design House, Mint Hair Duncan 

DAY SPA 

Winner: Amatista Spa Bear Mountain 

Runners Up: Willow Stream Spa, Sapphire Day Spa 

DENTIST 

Winner: Saanich Dental 

Runners Up: Westshore Dental, Oak Bay Dental Centre 

PHYSIOTHERAPIST 

Winner: Tall Tree James Bay 

Runners Up: Elizabeth de Jong Westman/RISE Health, 

Kaitlyn Chernomaz/Startline Physiotherapy Duncan 

FINANCIAL PLANNER 

Winner: Lianne E Waters/Edward Jones 

Runners Up: Mike Kalinka/Investors Group, Bobby Vu Financial Solutions 

Favourite 

Food Service 

FOOD TRUCK 

Winner: Deadbeetz 

Runners Up: Greek on the Street, Emiliano’s Authentic Port Alberni 

ICE CREAM SHOP 

Winner: Beacon Drive-In 

Runners Up: Coombs Country Market, North 49 

HAMBURGERS 

Winner: Bin 4 

Runners Up: Fat Burger, Big Wheel Burger 

PIZZA 

Winner: Pizzeria Prima Strada 

Runners Up: Romeo’s, 900 Degrees 

VEGAN 

Winner: Be Love 

Runners Up: Copper Branch, Green Cuisine 

ETHNIC 

Winner: Sizzling Tandoor 

Runners Up: Pho Tru, Victoria Sushi 

FAMILY DINING 

Winner: White Spot 

Runners Up: Romeo’s, Beacon Drive-In 

FOOD PREP SERVICE 

Winner: Local Urban Bites 

Runners Up: Balanced Meal Prep, Fresh Prep 

IslandParent.ca December/January 2023 27

SHOP 

Holiday Gift Guide 

Melissa & Doug’s 

Geometric Stacker 

Match and sort these 21 colourful 

wooden pieces, and skill-building is just 

part of the fun. Rings, octagons and 

rectangles can be slotted onto the three 

rods, stacked on top of each other or 

lined up to compare shapes, sizes and 

colours. This first-concepts set is a manipulatives 

all-star! 

Hape Pound & Tap Bench 

Pounding sends the balls tinkling 

over the xylophone. Pull out the keyboard 

and the xylophone can be played 

solo. Promotes dexterity, hand-eye 

coordination and manipulation. It also 

introduces logic, matching, spatial 

relationships, critical thinking and an 

understanding of cause-and-effect. For 

ages 12 months +. 

Folkmanis Animal Puppets 

Imagination is the key to a healthy 

childhood, encouraging play and discovery 

to develop the skills necessary 

in life. Folkmanis has been making 

the most innovative and engaging 

specialty puppets in the world since 

1976, delighting imaginations and 

winning nearly every industry, child 

development,and kid-tested award— 

many repeatedly. 

Magna-Tiles 

These original 3-D clear magnetic 

tiles inspire creative, open-ended play 

and are an educational toy for children 

of all ages. Engage young minds by fusing 

together math, science and creativity 

and spark hours of imaginative free 

play. Anything kids can dream, they 

can create! 

Loog Mini Guitar 

More sophisticated, but still kidworthy, 

a Loog mini guitar will help 

develop a lifelong love of—and maybe 

talent for—music! The ideal first guitar, 

the real-wood Loog mini has perfect 

intonation and three-string award-winning 

design. Includes flashcards with 

chord diagrams and full access to the 

Loog guitar app. loogguitars.com 


Nat Geo’s Break-Open Geodes 

Explore the crystal caves inside these 

naturally forming volcanic rocks. Crack 

them open and discover the beautiful 

minerals inside. Nat Geo selects only 

the best geodes collected from multiple 

mines around the world so you’re 

guaranteed to find fascinating crystals. 

Inspire an appreciation and love of nature 

with this extraordinary science kit. 

canadiantire.ca 

Slothside 

Rock Climbing Holds 

This set includes high-quality polyester 

resin bolt on rock climbing holds 

with a variety of shapes like jugs, 

crimps, pockets, pinch and slopers for 

a better climbing experience. Designed 

for easy gripping, these holds have a 

texture like real rock and are durable 

and weather resistant. slothside.com 

www.kimberleykufaas.com 

Christmas Eve Family Service 

Back in-person! 

@westcoastlife 

Dec 24, 4:30 pm 

The Shoemaker of 

Bethlehem 

First Met United Church 

Quadra & Balmoral 

firstmetvictoria.com 

Also on Dec 24: 

Carols in the Candlelight: 7:30 pm 

(Annabelle Stanley, harpist 7 pm) 



Thank you for voting us a 

Family Favourite Attraction! 

DADSPEAK 

The Relentless 

Determination 

of Parents 

See airplanes, 

seaplanes, helicopters 

and more at the 

BC Aviation Museum 

Learn about BC’s aviation 

history from early bush planes 

to bombers and beyond! 

Well, it’s that time of year 

again, when we—hopefully— 

get to put some of the strain 

and stress of the year behind us and 

have some good food and drink and 

time with the family. Although looking 

back on 2022, man, not sure just how 

I just don’t know how sustainable it 

is for a family to live in Victoria right 

now. I silently scream when I go to buy 

coffee at the store; I mix tears with gasoline 

in hopes of saving a few pennies 

at the pump. I constantly think that 

there are mistakes when I’m purchasing 

Winter Hours, Oct 1 to Apr 30: 

11am to 3pm, Thurs through Tues 

Summer Hours, May 1 to Sept 30: 

10am to 4pm, Thurs through Tues 

Closed Wednesdays, Christmas, 

Boxing and New Year’s Days. 

1910 Norseman Road, Sidney 

250-655-3300 | bcam.net 

much food any of us can afford this go 

’round. Inflation at the grocery store 

absolutely tore through the wallets 

of families living in Victoria and the 

region, as has inflation at the pumps, 

and, if you’re renting and have had to 

move this year, those monthly rental 

cheques. 

toilet paper. How can toilet paper possibly 

cost so much? 

But I refuse to let despair sink in, as 

I cackle to myself when I drop my oldest 

off at school—high school, now!— 

trying not to calculate the ludicrous 

amount that drive cost me in gas, trying 

to just make it through a morning 


without feeling the existential economic 

strangle that every single one of you 

reading this probably felt this year as 

I throw my younger on a bus to get to 

his school—middle school now!—because 

he still gets on that thing for 

free for another glorious year or so. I 

mutter to myself, half-convincingly but 

somehow simultaneously like threequarters, 

totally unconvincingly that it’s 

worth it to take out a second mortgage 

for a Christmas tree because, hey, it is, 

afterall, Christmas. 

“Might as well!” I scream at the 

clerk at the tree lot, through a totally 

unconvincing smile as I throw my credit 

card in the air and wander off, stumbling 

like an elf in a snowstorm, kids 

chasing after me, other moms and dads 

walking into walls, muttering about 

money, making jokes that just make no 

sense, crying, laughing, crying, crying. 

Yeah, it’s been one of those years. 

I got a hernia a while back and our 

medical system is about as mangled as 

everything else is, so when I laugh it 

kinda, well, moves around, making 

me involuntarily grab it, an endless 

source of humiliation for all my family 

members. It’s okay, I scream into the 

air, the specialist will call me at some 

point! But they’re not calling! They’re 

too overwhelmed! And I gotta stop 

screaming because it’s just more pressure 

on the ol’ hernia! 

So, merry Christmas, as grocery 

stores tease us with slaps to the face 

disguised as price freezes, and as we 

are thankful gas has gone down a teeny 

bit so it’s only, like, ten thousand 

times more than it was a year ago, 

and, let’s face it, we are approaching 

the finish line here totally dazed and 

battered. 

But never defeated. 

Honestly, you can’t defeat parents. 

We get woken up at unholy hours. We 

get screamed at. We literally get excrement 

on our hands, like, kinda regularly. 

But we just keep going. 

And despite our corporate overlords 

chasing dollar signs to such a degree 

that they’re now destroying society as 

we know it, hey, we’ll just keep going, 

because we’re parents, that’s what 

we do, and, honestly, those corporate 

overlords, they have no idea what we’re 

capable of. 

So, it’s been a tough year, an ugly 

year, a brutal year for many families in 

Victoria. Let’s see if we can turn that 

around. Let me rephrase that: I know 

we can turn it around. This year got a 

bit tough, a bit dark. But we’ll make it 

through to brighter days. 

In all seriousness: Merry Christmas. 

Happy new year. 2023: We’ve got this. 

Greg Pratt is the father of three 

children and a local journalist and 

editor. His writing has appeared 

in, among other places, Today’s 

Parent, Decibel and Douglas. He 

is @gregprattwriter on Twitter. 



Holiday HAPPENINGS 

The Nutcracker 

The Cowichan Performing Arts Centre presents 

The Nutcracker on Saturday, December 3 

at noon and 4pm. Experience the magic of The 

Nutcracker this holiday season with Royal City 

Youth Ballet’s full-length ballet, featuring an extralarge 

ensemble cast. Performing to Peter Ilyich 

Tchaikovsky’s beautiful music, this traditional 

ballet has wonderous sets and extravagant, colourful 

costumes. Perfect for young and old alike! 

Tickets are $36 for adults, $18 for children and 

$90 for families (2 adults, 2 children) and can be 

purchased online, by calling 250-746-2722 or by 

visiting the Ticket Centre. 

cowichanpac.ca 

Butchart Gardens’ Magic of Christmas 

Bundle up and stroll through Butchart Gardens’ 

Magic of Christmas and be dazzled by the thousands 

of twinkling lights and Christmas displays. 

Take in the Twelve Days of Christmas display, sing 

along to the sounds of the season with Traditional 

Carollers and Festive Brass, then stop in at the 

coffee shop to warm up with a hot chocolate and 

gingerbread by the fire. The Gardens will be open 

3–9pm, with viewing until 10pm. 

butchartgardens.com 

Gingerbread Showcase 

Habitat for Humanity Victoria’s premier fundraiser, 

The Gingerbread Showcase presented by Revera 

Living, is open for its 14th year in the atrium of the 

Parkside Hotel & Spa and will run until January 2, 

2023. Stop by this local holiday treasure to view 

the 100% edible creations made by volunteer 

bakers and don't forget to donate to vote for 

your favourite. This year’s theme: “Magical.” One 

hundred percent of donations to the Gingerbread 

Showcase will help Habitat Victoria support affordable 

homeownership in Victoria. Can't make 

it in person? View and vote for your favourite 

creation online at habitatvictoria.com/ 

gingerbread2022. 

Malahat SkyWalk’s Holiday Magic 

Take in the sights and sounds of the season with 

Malahat SkyWalk’s Holiday Magic and experience 

something unique and truly west coast. From Dec 

3 to Jan 1, Vancouver Island’s newest attraction 

introduces Holiday Magic, an exciting line-up of 

fun and festive activities for all to enjoy. From 

appearances by Santa along with Luke the Sasquatch 

Elf, decorations, a 20-foot Christmas tree 

to Santa’s Workshop, The Clause Family Bakery 

and a cozy outdoor fire, there's no better place 

to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy the best of 

the season. For more information on Malahat Sky- 

Walk, its Holiday Magic events, an annual seasons 

pass and more, visit malahatskywalk.com. 

Milner Christmas Magic 

Make memories with family and friends this 

holiday season by experiencing Milner Christmas 

Magic’s outdoor stroll through thousands of 

twinkling lights and festive window displays. Find 

something for everyone on your holiday shopping 

list in the Gingerbread Gift Shop, drop off 

your letters to Santa in the North Pole Mailbox, 

with a wave to Santa and Mrs. Claus themselves! 

December 2–4, 9–11, and 16–21. Entry is by suggested 

donation of $5 per adult, $2 per child or 

$12 per household. Dress warm and grab your 

camera! milnergardens.viu.ca 

Need help with the Affordable Child Care Benefit? 

Looking for child care? Taking care of children? 

Need child care training? 

Call your local CCRR for free referrals and resources. 

Victoria & Gulf Islands: 250-382-7000 

Sooke: 250-642-5152 ext 239 West Shore: 250-940-4882 

Cowichan Valley: 250-746-4135 local 231 

PacificCare (Ladysmith North): 250-756-2022 or 1-888-480-2273 

gov.bc.ca/ChildCareResourceReferralCentres 

Your community’s best source of 

child care information and resources. 

Funding for the CCRR is provided by the province of B.C. 


PRESCHOOL&CHILDCAREDIRECTORY 

Victoria & Area Peninsula Westshore Cowichan Valley Nanaimo & Area 

v Comprehensive programs for 

Preschool through Grade 11 

v Delivering academic excellence through 

music, dance, drama and visual arts 

v Outstanding educators, 

locations and facilities 

Castleview Child Care........... 250-595-5355 

Learning Through Play & Discovery. 

Licensed non-profit, ECE staff. Since 1958. 

Morning or full-time care. 

castleviewchildcarecentre.com 

www.ArtsCalibre.ca 250.382.3533 

Christ Church Cathedral Childcare 

& Jr. Kindergarten..................250-383-5132 

ECE and specialist teachers provide an 

outstanding all day licensed program for 

2.5–5 year olds at our Fairfield and 

Gordon Head locations. 

cathedralschool.ca 

OPENING 

September 

2022 

ENROLL 

TODAY! 

Come Learn & Grow with Us! 

FULL TIME 3–5 DAYCARE 

PART TIME PRESCOOL 

BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CARE 

Cloverdale Childcare Society 

Vic West Site 

at Vic West Elementary School 

cloverdalechildcare.com 

250.995.1766 cloverdale@shawbiz.ca 

Pre-School 

Junior Kindergarten 

PacificChristian.ca 

250-479-4532 

Educational Excellence to the Glory of God 

Ready Set Grow Preschool.....250-472-1530 

Join our learning through play preschool located 

in Hillcrest Elem. Our caring ECEs offer 

an enriched Program for 3-4 hour, 2-5 days a 

week and help with kindergarten transition. 

heoscmanager@gmail.com 

St. Christopher’s Montessori School 

Offering an enriched and 

nurturing Montessori program 

Competitively priced independent 

school education 

Half day for 3 & 4 year olds 

Full day kindergarten 

stcmontessori.ca 250-595-3213 

Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 

Learn more today! 250-390-2201 AspengroveSchool.ca 

NANAIMO’ S JK–12 INTERNATIONAL 

BACCALAUREATE WORLD SCHOOL 

Nestled on 4 acres of lush west coast forest, our Award 

winning, Nature based program will not disappoint! 

While firmly embracing the Reggio-Emila (Italy) Philosophy our 

dedicated team of educators use the environment as the third 

teacher as we encourage your child throughout their day. 

Our purpose built facilities have been handmade using the 

trees from our forest. Come take a virtual tour on our website! 

lexieslittlebears.ca Waitlist: 250-590-3603 

BC Award of Excellence in Childcare & Prime Minister’s Award of Excellence in Early Childhood Education. 



NATURENOTES 

Dragonflies & Damselflies 

Have you seen them? Have you really seen them? 

You never know what you’re going to fall in love 

with next when it comes to the beautiful and sophisticated 

ecological world that surrounds us. I have found love in 

nature thousands of times, but it is not every day that you fall. 

My first fall in nature was enormous, and I am far from recovering: 

Fungi. At first they tantalized me, with their delicious 

flavours, and then even more as I learned of their extraordinary 

roles in ecology and uses in society. 

Second, I fell for salmon. My heart climbed seven storeys 

while I worked as an interpreter during the annual salmon run. 

The fish are easy to admire, but I fell in love with their profound 

abilities and perseverance. I fell for every single caudal 

peduncle, operculum and enormous jawbone that I saw. 

Now? I am curious, wondering if I have found a third love. I 

can feel the beginnings of sprouting giddiness and tingling thrill 

at the very thought of them. Yes, that’s right, naturally: Insects. 

Have you seen them? 

As spring sauntered into town and then somehow slipped 

into summer and even fell into fall, my love for insects metamorphosed 

into something I did not expect. Insects are incredible! 

With shields, segments and sheaves, their diversity and 

design is astounding—you just have to look! Have you really 

seen them? 

As part of my educational work with the Swan Lake Nature 

Sanctuary, I was taking part in regular net dips in Swan Lake. 

During these dips we sweep our nets through the water, gently 

brushing plants and collecting invertebrates. Our scoops are deposited 

into containers of water in which we can take a closer 

look at the creatures of the lake. 

I was amazed to find an incredible diversity of insects, many 

of which would one day inhabit the terrestrial environment 

above the water. I was frequently told “I did not get anything 

in my scoop,” by students, only to encourage a deeper scan and 

hear sounds of excitement as they found more and more tiny 

creatures. Thrilling! 

Invertebrates in the lake can be indicative of the lake’s health; 

we call them bioindicators. Certain species can only survive in 

healthy waters while others are very tolerant of pollutants. As I 

was performing my bi-weekly scoop to help monitor the health 

of the lake, I could feel myself falling for a third time. Dragonflies 

and Damselflies belong to the order Odonata. They are 

defined by their slender bodies, two pairs of transparent wings, 

large compound eyes…and of course, by their epic speed and 

hunting abilities! 

Did you know that dragonflies and damselflies begin life 

underwater? These insects start as eggs dropped in wet and 

muddy areas by their mothers. When they hatch, they assume a 

life underwater as Nymphs. In this stage, you might not recognize 

them, as they lack their wings and many of their beautiful 

colours. They have gills and are effective underwater hunters! 

Dragonflies and Damselflies have an astounding and admittedly 

odd adaptation for catching prey underwater. Their lower 

lip piece, called their labium, can extend up to a third of their 

body length, shooting out at extraordinary speeds to quickly 

scoop up unassuming prey (small invertebrates or fish)! 

I highly recommend looking up a video of these sophisticated 

hunters. These nymphs are beautiful and their design is marvelous. 

Their perfectly packed segmented body is full of whacky 

and wonderful adaptations, including the ability to quickly propel 

themselves forward by shooting water out of their behind! 

When these insects are mature enough, they prepare to move 

into their terrestrial stage of life. Some species can live underwater 

for five whole years before they become adults! The 

dragonflies and damselflies will crawl out of the water, partially 

at first, and allow their respiration system to adapt to breathing 

air! They will then climb onto vegetation or rocks and clamp 


on tight. Here they will slowly split and crawl out of their larval 

skin and emerge as an adult dragonfly. 

The adults must work hard to pump haemolymph into their 

wings, causing them to expand and strengthen. With some time 

to harden their exoskeleton, they are ready to take flight! Adult 

dragonflies can fly up to 54km per hour and move their four 

wings individually! This makes them great pilots and impressive 

hunters. We can thank them for eating plenty of mosquitoes 

and causing us a few less bites in the summer! 

While it began for me with dragonflies and damselflies, it 

was not long at all before it became insects as a whole. From 

the hundreds of bee tongues I’ve seen this summer to the stunning 

colour palettes on leaf hoppers, I have been shocked and 

delighted. I promptly purchased a beginner macro camera to 

see them closer—to be able to look at their armour, their eyes 

of many lenses, their ancestral fluff and their comprehensive 

hydraulics. I have a lot to learn about insects, but with my 

newfound love I can promise you one thing: They are worth a 

closer look—have you seen them? 

Join us at the Nature Sanctuary for one of our children, family 

or adult programs and perhaps you can fall for something 

new! To see our calendar, register and learn about programs 

visit swanlake.bc.ca. 

Madi Haller is a Community Educator at Swan Lake Christmas Hill 

Nature Sanctuary. She is passionate about the small intricacies of natural 

world that are often overlooked. 



PARENTING 

The Reality of 

Adopting a Pet 

Pets can be a lot of fun if your family 

is ready for the responsibilities 

that come with them. They can help 

teach children values and social skills. 

Most relationships between people and 

pets are positive. 

There are some important health 

and safety considerations to remember 

when bringing a pet into your home. 

Both your children and pet will be happier 

and healthier if they know and 

understand the rules. It’s important to 

take the time to prepare and understand 

the realities of having a pet. 

If you decide to adopt a pet, 

make sure it is healthy. 

Adopt your pet from someone you 

trust. Your veterinarian (vet) will be 

able to offer suggestions. 

Consider the final adult size of 

your pet when deciding which kind to 

adopt. Don’t forget that they grow and 

might get bigger than you are prepared 

to handle. 

Make sure your pet sees the vet every 

year and has all vaccinations. 

Have your cat or dog spayed or neutered. 

Get veterinary care when your pet is 

sick. 

Watch for any contact your pet has 

with other animals that might carry 

disease. 


FAMILY 

RESOURCE 

DIRECTORY 

When you have a pet in your 

home. 

Teach your children to treat animals 

gently and with respect. 

Never leave a young child alone with 

an animal. Accidents can happen when 

children tease pets or touch them in a 

way that makes them uncomfortable. 

Involve your child in the care of your 

pet. This helps children learn a sense of 

responsibility. 

Make sure your pet has a quiet and 

comfortable place to go. 

Don’t allow your pets to sleep with 

children. 

Don’t allow your pet to roam alone 

in a baby’s room. 

Don’t allow your pet to lick your 

child’s face or any cuts or scratches. 

Pets and allergies. 

If you have a child with allergies, 

think carefully about whether a pet is a 

good idea. If their allergies get worse, 

it can be hard to find a new home for 

your pet. If you get a new pet and your 

child starts to show signs of allergies, 

consult your doctor for advice. 

Dogs. 

Look for a dog with a gentle nature. 

Older dogs are a good idea only if 

they have been around children. 

Puppies can be a lot fun but tend to 

have lots of energy. They need a lot of 

time and patience for proper training. 

Involve all family members in the training 

so that the commands used are easy 

for both your children and the dog to 

remember. 

Don’t leave your dog alone in the 

house for long periods of time. If you 

have to be away for long periods, a 

dog might not be the right pet for your 

family. 

Keep your dog secure in a space that 

they can be comfortable in. 

Expose your dog to different types of 

people and situations. 

Dogs need lots of exercise. Encourage 

your children to join you on walks 

with the dog. Remember to use a leash 

when walking your dog. 

Cats. 

Keep your cat indoors to protect 

them from harm or disease. 

Keep the litter box clean. Wash 

hands thoroughly when done. 

If a dog or cat is not the right type 

of pet for your home, there are other 

choices. Talk to your vet for ideas and 

tips on care. 

Reptiles, wild or exotic animals. 

Reptiles, such as turtles, lizards 

and snakes, often carry Salmonella, 

a kind of bacteria (germ) that can be 

very hard to kill. Always wash your 

hands after handling a reptile. 

Exotic animals, such as sugar gliders, 

hedgehogs or monkeys, are not good 

pets for children. They can be dangerous, 

or they may need special care that 

young children can’t give. 

Wild animals should not be kept as 

pets. 

Ferrets are not a good pet for homes 

with young children. 

The Canadian Paediatric Society 

is the national association of paediatricians, 

committed to working together to advance 

the health of children and youth by nurturing 

excellence in health care, advocacy, education, 

research and support of its membership. 

caringforkids.cps.ca 

The Family Resource 

Directory is designed 

to highlight the caring 

community that we are 

a part of. This directory 

showcases organizations 

and businesses that provide 

services and support for 

families and children. 

Navigate is an award-winning 

school, recognized nationally and 

internationally for our innovative 

approach to blended learning. 

We’ve implemented the new BC 

curriculum and built unique, flexible 

learning options for every student. 

This allows us to meet a diverse 

range of student needs, abilities 

and learning styles. 

Discover more at 

NavigateNIDES.com 

Thriving Roots 

Wilderness School 

Thriving Roots provides hands-on, wilderness 

education and counselling services for youth 

and adults. Our year-long programs and summer 

camps are immersive in nature, fostering 

connection to land and community through 

earth-based skills, play, music and more. 

thrivingroots.org info@thrivingroots.org 




Vol. V, Ed. V 

GRAND 

grandmag.ca 

Sunday ‘Crafternoon’ 


Smart IslandParent.ca Kids & Smart Phones 

Connecting 

with Teenage 

Grandkids 


Technology 

Smart Kids & Smart Phones 

come to realize (albeit grudgingly) how 

valuable cellphones can actually be in 

terms of providing quality learning experiences—supervised, 

of course. 

Years ago, I made the decision to cancel 

my landline, so my cellphone is my only 

method of contacting someone. Out of necessity, 

therefore, I have had to teach my 

Susan Gnucci is a local author and a 

proud “nonna” to two young grandsons. 

She enjoys sharing her experiences as 

a grandparent. 

My children were probably the last 

generation to be raised without 

cellphones, so I must admit, I had 

absolutely no experience with them as a 

parent. In fact, I actually held off buying 

one for myself for a long time. 

By nature, I tend to resist change, 

especially technological change that always 

seems so daunting, but eventually, 

I did purchase a cellphone when my first 

grandchild was born. With his birth, I 

felt it was more important than ever to be 

able to keep in close touch with my son 

and daughter-in-law. Now I can’t imagine 

my life without one. 

I still have reservations about cellphones, 

especially when it comes to 

teenagers. As a former teacher, I can 

only imagine the issues that arise in the 

schools and classrooms with respect to 

cellphone usage. When it comes to my 

7-year-old grandson, however, I have 

grandson how to access the cellphone keypad 

in the event of an emergency in which 

he would have to call 911. We routinely 

practice all the steps involved in calling 

for help and I always keep my cellphone in 

the same location in my home so he knows 

exactly where to find it. This experience 

has given him a sense of pride that he 

is entrusted with such an important job 

and it has led to interesting discussions 

between us about the different emergency 

services in our community. 

My grandson also knows how to access 

the text function on my phone in case 



he wants to send his father or mother a 

message while he is away from them. We 

have had great fun inserting emojis and 

gifs into creative messages that convey 

his own unique personality so my son 

and daughter-in-law know my grandson 

is the sender. If they receive a text 

that has oodles of cars and truck emojis 

tacked on the end, they can be certain it’s 

from him! 

One of my grandson’s favourite games 

is “Ask the phone a question.” Using the 

microphone, he will pose a question and 

then we will research the suggested results. 

Where is the largest volcano? Who 

built the pyramids? What is a fire break? 

This not only broadens his knowledge 

base but also teaches him to think critically 

because I often point out the validity 

of a source as we look through it. 

Amazingly, the camera function on a 

smartphone these days is capable of producing 

good quality photos and videos. 

Like most children, my young grandson 

loves to be videotaped—he pretends to be 

a weatherman, a firefighter, an explorer 

etc. And then, of course, he enjoys watching 

the videos we’ve created together. We 

have also experimented with the slowmotion 

video function to produce some 

hilarious results. Or we will film his hot 

wheel car jump in slow motion, leading 

to modifications of the set up in order to 

achieve desired results. 

He often asks for my phone to take his 

own photos and videos. He might set up 

a detailed Lego scene for instance which 

he will then videotape and narrate a tour 

through. Admittedly, his first few attempts 

shot more footage of the wall or 

the floor, but he has gradually gotten the 

hang of it, understanding how to hold the 

phone to get the best results, even zooming 

in on details of his subject. I have also 

shown him the editing functions for photos, 

so we have played with things like 

brightness, tint, shadow effects, etc. We 

often discuss which effect we like best 

and how these effects change the mood or 

message of the photo. 

So although I still have reservations 

about children and cellphones in general, 

I have come to recognize their 

value when their use is controlled and 

supervised. They have taught me to embrace 

new technologies rather than fear 

them—yes, you can teach an old dog new 

tricks!—and to look for positive ways to 

share that technology with the next generation 

in order to stay connected. 

Make sure you are included in the upcoming 

Independent School 

& Education Guide! 

This is the most comprehensive list and resource for families. 

Email sales@islandparent.ca to reserve your spot. 

flexibility 

for 

different 

learning 

styles 

optional 

hands-on 

learning 

activities 

support 

from a 

certified 

teacher 

gentle and 

constructive 

feedback 



Eat 


Emillie Parrish loves having adventures 

with her two busy children. You can find 

more of her recipes in her recently released 

cookbook Fermenting Made Simple. 

fermentingforfoodies.com 

A 

meal train is when a group of family 

members and friends work 

together to deliver meals to someone 

who is going through a major life 

change. While some of these occasions 

are happy, like the birth of a new baby, 

it is often set up to assist in sad and 

stressful periods. 

The general idea is to have a calendar 

where everyone chooses a date to drop 

off a meal. That way the person or family 

in need is well fed while they cope 

with their transition. 

Meal trains can be organized via 

group emails or texts. Setting up a 

google spreadsheet that can be shared 

around is a simple way to organize a 

meal train. There are also apps and services 

that can be used for coordination, 

for example, mealtrain.com and takethemameal.com. 

Even if you aren’t up for coordinating 

a meal train, it’s always nice to drop off 

a healthy meal to someone who could 

use a bit of a hand. 

Here are a few tips if you’re planning 

on dropping off a meal to someone: 

• Use containers that you don’t need 

to get back. 

• Date the food, because they might 

not remember when it was dropped off. 

• Provide reheating instructions. 

• Ask about dietary restrictions in 

advance. 

Here are three healthy meals that 

are perfect for sharing. They are rich, 

warm, and filling. Food that will comfort 

and nourish. Make a double-batch 

so you can enjoy it as well! 

Rich Vegetable 

Noodle Soup 

This noodle soup is a simple and comforting 

dish. It’s the sort of soup that 

tastes better the next day, making it 

perfect for a meal train. 

2 Tbsp olive oil 

2 onions, chopped 

2 large potatoes, cut into bite-sized 

cubes 

3 leeks, chopped, white and light green 

parts 

3 large carrots, diced 

1 1 ⁄2 Tbsp salt 

1 tsp freshly ground black pepper 

3 quarts stock 

1 can of tomato paste (156 mL) 

1 pinch of saffron threads 

1 ⁄2 lb. green beans, ends removed and 

cut in half 

8 ounces soup pasta or spaghetti, broken 

in pieces 

1 jar of pesto (200g) 

1. Heat the olive oil in a large soup 

pot, add the onions, and saute over low 

heat for 5 minutes. 

2. Add the leeks, potatoes, carrots, 

salt, and pepper and saute over medium 

heat for another 5 minutes. 

3. Add the stock, stir in the tomato 

paste, and saffron. Bring to a boil, reduce 

the heat and simmer for 30 minutes. 

4. Add the green beans and pasta and 

simmer until the pasta is cooked, about 

10 minutes. 

5. Serve the soup with a dollop of 

pesto in each bowl. 

Slow Cooker Kale 

& Sausage Stew 

This is comfort food at its best! This 

sausage stew features a tomato and 

mashed potato base that is absolutely 

delicious. 

1 pound Italian sausage, cut into bitesized 

pieces 

1 large onion, chopped 

1 large-sized can diced tomatoes (28 oz) 

2 garlic cloves, finely diced 

1 cup of water 

3 ⁄4 tsp each salt and pepper, to taste 


2 large-sized mashing potatoes, peeled 

1 small bunch of kale, stems discarded 

and leaves torn 

Mashed Potatoes 

1 ⁄2 cup of milk 

1 ⁄2 cup of olive oil, plus more for serving 

1 ⁄2 tsp each of salt and pepper 

1. Mix the sausage, onion, tomatoes, 

and garlic in a slow cooker. Pour in the 

water and add the salt and pepper. Push 

the potatoes into the liquid so they are 

mostly covered. 

2. Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours, or 3 to 

4 hours on high, until the potatoes are 

fork tender. 

3. Remove the potatoes from the slow 

cooker. Add the kale to the slow cooker. 

Stir and allow it to cook while mashing 

the potatoes. 

4. Mash the potatoes with the milk, 

olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir back into 

the stew and serve. 

Mediterranean 

Quinoa Salad 

While casseroles, soups, and stews are 

the mainstay of meal trains, sometimes 

a fresh salad is just the thing. This 

quinoa salad is packed with vegetables 

and flavour for a bright dish that will 

taste good for several days in the fridge. 

Tomatoes and cucumbers are both delicious 

additions to this salad, however, 

they taste best when served right away. 

So stick with the carrot and pepper if 

you’re giving the dish to someone else. 

1 cup of dried quinoa 

2 cups of water 

Salad dressing 

1 ⁄4 cup apple cider vinegar 

3 Tbsp olive oil 

2 Tbsp lemon juice 

1 tsp salt and pepper, to taste 

1 clove of minced garlic (optional) 

Toppings 

1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed 

1 red pepper, chopped 

2 carrots, grated 

1 ⁄3 cup chopped fresh parsley 

3 diced spring onions 

1 ⁄4 cup dried cranberries 

1 ⁄2 cup crumbled feta cheese 

1. Place the quinoa and water in a 

small pot. Bring to a boil and simmer 

until the quinoa is cooked but not soft, 

about 15 to 20 minutes. 

2. Meanwhile, whisk together all the 

dressing ingredients in a large bowl. 

3. Once the quinoa has finished 

cooking, gently toss it in the salad 

dressing. Allow it to cool before adding 

the toppings. Taste, and adjust the salt 

as necessary. 

4. After the quinoa has cooled, stir 

in the chickpeas, red pepper, carrot, 

parsley, and spring onions. Mix well. 

5. Top with the cranberries and 

crumbled feta and serve. 



Grandparenting 

Connecting with 

Teenage Grandkids 

My boys are incredibly blessed to have grandparents who work hard to nurture 

a trusting, playful connection with them. Who better to offer advice on 

how to connect with teenage grandkids than two grandparents who make 

enormous efforts to play an active role in their grandkids’ lives? 

My parents live in our city for only two to three months out of the year, which 

means they need to consider how to remain present in our lives whether they are 

five minutes or five thousand miles away. Experiencing both ends of the spectrum 

provides my parents with the added advantage of being able to speak to grandparents 

who may be geographically close and can partake in daily activities, and those 

who may live further away and wish to remain connected without the privilege of 

being physically present. 

Make a 

lasting impact 

for amputees 

with a charitable 

estate donation in 

your will. Together, 

we can improve the 

lives of all amputees, 

including traditional 

and modern-day 

veterans, adults 

and children. 

estatedonation@waramps.ca 

waramps.ca • 1 800 465-2677 

WORDS OF ADVICE FROM MIKE AND LINDA (AKA PAPA AND NANA)... 

Know what’s important to your grandkids. We make an effort to be a part of activities 

which are important to the boys—school, hobbies, sports, friends. Whenever 

possible, we show up to their special events but when that’s not feasible, we call 

or FaceTime because we want to hear all about it. Be sure to ask lots of questions 

and encourage conversation. Show your interest! 

Create opportunities to have fun as a family. If you live in the same city, this may 

be a family picnic in the park, a Sunday night barbeque, family movie nights or 

game nights. If you live in a different city, invite your grandchildren to stay with 

you for a long weekend or an extended period over summer break. (Inviting just 

the kids without their parents is an excellent way to foster bonding time.) And, 

when they come to visit, plan exciting experiences you can share together. 

Encourage projects together. In the past, we have helped our older grandson build 

a display wall of skateboards in his bedroom. Last summer, we helped the younger 

one fashion his own fishing rod. We ask them to cook with us, and we learn new 

skills together such as wakesurfing. They help us around the yard or with household 

building projects. When we are working towards a common goal, we share 



failures, successes, and lots of laughter. As grandparents, we 

are modelling that we are still learning too. We love to hear 

their suggestions and ideas when problems inevitably arise. 

We want our grandkids to know we think they are smart and 

innovative (and they can learn a lot from us, too). 

If you don’t live near your grandchildren, perhaps you can 

all take an online course together, watch the same Netflix 

show, or help them with their homework over FaceTime. 

Let your grandkids know how much you enjoy their company. 

We tell our boys they can talk to us about anything— 

YouTube, friendships, alcohol, sports, love. We try to be 

non-judgmental and create a safe space for them to share. 

They can come to us for advice or support even in times when 

it’s hard for them to talk with their parents. We appreciate 

them as teenagers and love who they are trying to become. 

Offer to drive them places. While this seems simple, the best 

conversations often happen in the car! It’s also a fantastic opportunity 

to get to know their friends, if they come along for 

the ride. We often offer to stop for a slice of pizza or a Starbucks, 

as this creates more shared time together. 

WORDS FROM MY BOYS… 

Jackson (aged 16): It’s easy to talk to Nana and Papa because 

they take an interest in me. I can talk to Nana about fitness 

and Papa loves soccer. Papa is one of my best friends. I talk to 

him almost every day. If you don’t share an interest with your 

grandkids, you can try to learn a little. Maybe watch a You- 

Tube video or watch their favourite TV show. That way you 

have something to ask them about. 

My grandparents are cool people. They have lots of interesting 

friends and they have cool experiences, so I like to ask them 

about what’s going on in their lives. They tell great stories and I 

like talking to them. 

They’re also really fun. They invite me to do cool things with 

them, like go on the boat, play soccer-golf or go quadding. I like 

hanging out with them. 

Chase (aged 13): I know Nana and Papa care about me because 

they call regularly. They know my friends’ names and they ask 

about them. They know my interests. Nana asks what I’m reading, 

and Papa asks about soccer. They’re also fun to be around. 

They laugh and smile a lot. I like that. 

Connecting with teens isn’t always easy. They can be moody, 

unpredictable, and hormonal. The world they live in is very 

different from when you were their age, and this may be challenging 

to relate to at times. Despite their occasional standoffish-ness, 

teens want what everyone else wants: to be seen, 

heard and loved. So push through your grandchildren’s prickly 

demeanor to show them how much you value and enjoy their 

company. When grandparents and teens connect, it brings joy 

and vitality to all! 

Kelly Cleeve is a best-selling author and an 

educator. More importantly, she is the proud 

parent of two amazing sons. Visit kellycleeve. 

com or follow her on Instagram 

@resilient_kel and Facebook – Raising 

Resilient Children/Radiant and Resilient. 

Where there’s a Will, 

there’s a way… 

A gift in your Will 

is a promise today 

of care for tomorrow. 

To learn how you can support the future 

health of Island children, contact 

legacy@islandkidsfirst.com 

or scan 

Island kid Ephraim 

Champions for the health of every Island family since 1926. 



Grandparenting 

Sunday Crafternoon 

It’s a blustery West Coast afternoon, but 

my three oldest grandchildren and I 

aren’t worried about the weather. We’re 

warm and snug inside, rolling up our 

sleeves in preparation for a few hours 

of creative adventure. I’ve supplied the 

large table and the craft supplies; they’ve 

brought the unfettered enthusiasm and 

sky-high imaginations of four-, five- and 

seven-year-olds. 

The rules are simple: be kind, be safe 

and have fun! There are no other expectations 

for our afternoon together. I don’t 

know how long my grandkids will remain 

engaged in this activity, and I have 

no preconceived ideas about what our 

crafting will produce. We are freestyling, 

operating without instructions, plans, or 

even Pinterest pictures to guide us. Our 

craft materials are our only source of 

inspiration. 

The craft supplies themselves are rudimentary. 

We have three pairs of scissors 

of various sizes, rolls of scotch and masking 

tape, washable markers, crayons 

and sheets of coloured paper. But most 

important, we have a laundry hamper 

overflowing with materials otherwise 

destined for the recycling bin: cardboard 

boxes and tubes, plastic lids and containers, 

cards and flyers and other miscellaneous 

paper goods. In other words, a 

creative treasure trove! 

Seven-year-old Kieran takes the lead. 

He wants to make a model replica of 

Ladysmith, our mutual hometown. I 

suggest that we might not be able to construct 

the entire town in one afternoon, 

but we can certainly start with our favourite 

buildings. Kieran immediately gets 

underway on a very impressive version 

of Ladysmith’s post office. His younger 

sister Dahlia and cousin Rhea are game to 

contribute to the town as well, but need 

a little help constructing their buildings. 

In four-year-old Rhea’s case, a box 

turned inside-out makes an excellent 

Aggie Hall—with the addition of a sloped 

roof of course. Five-year-old Dahlia has 

her heart set on making a “baby house,” 

which she decorates with a door, a window 

and a pipe cleaner balloon. 

While Kieran continues work on the 

post office, I contribute a few more buildings 

for my granddaughters to decorate: 

two six-story apartment complexes 

(inspired by the size and shape of the 

boxes in our stash, rather than any actual 

Ladysmith structures) and a very basic 

model of our local grocery store. To jazz 

up the grocery store, we turn its roof into 

a park. Kieran supplies the bench, water 

slide and pool. 

It’s hard work building a town from 

scratch, and after an hour and a half my 

three builders let me know they’re ready 

for a tea break. Assuming their interest 

is waning, I begin to tidy up our surplus 

materials. But no—they aren’t quite finished 

after all! Fortified by licorice tea 

and homemade applesauce, they’re ready 

for their second shift. Again, Kieran leads 

the way, suggesting a quick trip outside 

to hunt for sticks to turn into trees. 

The second shift goes as smoothly as 

the first. Kieran adds a tree-house platform 

to his stick-tree, and then moves 

on to building a church complete with 

a steeple and pipe cleaner cross. Dahlia 

and Rhea turn their attention to colouring 

and cutting out decorations for their 

original structures. 

Finally, the moment we’ve been working 

toward arrives. We position our 

structures and trees on a larger sheet of 

cardboard, and just like that our little 

town is complete. Well, almost complete. 

“We need people!” says Kieran. He’s 

right, of course. Happily, we have a bag 

of Lego people nearby, just waiting to 

populate our new community. 

My twin daughters arrive to collect 

their children three hours after they 

dropped them off—and find them still 

engrossed in their cardboard town. By 

any measure, our first “crafternoon” 

together has been a success. Since I had 

almost as much fun as my grandkids, I 

assure them it won’t be our last. 

Crafternoon Tips: 

If a completely open-ended crafternoon 

seems a little daunting, the internet 

is full of great ideas to get your creative 

wheels turning. That said, with the right 

materials at their disposal, your grandchildren 

might surprise and delight you 

with their own original ideas. 

Beyond the basics like scissors, glue, 

tape, paint, markers and/or crayons, 

some of the best crafting materials are 

the ones you rescue from your recycling 

bin or wastebasket. Keep a box or two 

for potential materials: cardboard boxes 

of various sizes, paper tubes, interesting 

plastic packaging, greeting cards, scrap 

fabric, extra buttons, etc.! 

Finally, experience has taught me that 

any activity goes better when I check 

my expectations and follow my grandchildren’s 

lead as much as possible. Set 

parameters for the essentials like safety 

and healthy behaviour, of course, but 

do your best to surrender the rest. You 

never know where your grandchildren’s 

creativity will take you, but it’s sure to be 

interesting! 

Rachel Dunstan Muller is a 

children’s author, storyteller, 

podcaster and grandmother. 

You can find her podcasts 

Hintertales: Stories from the 

Margins of History and Sticks 

and Stones and Stories 

through her website at 

racheldunstanmuller.com. 



Central Saanich, BC North Saanich, BC North Saanich, BC 

every donation 

helps a local family build the future 

Saanich, BC 

North Saanich, BC 

A legacy gift to Habitat for Humanity Victoria 

can transform the lives of local families living in 

need of a safe, decent place to call home. 

By including us in your will or estate plan, you 

will ensure that your interests and passions are 

supported after your lifetime. 

visit habitatvictoria.com/donate 



Contact Colin Doylend 

email giving@habitatvictoria.com 

phone 250-480-7688 ext 102 



Thank you 

for choosing 

SunRiver Dental & 

Implant Centre as 

Family Favourite 

1st Runner Up 

Sooke’s New 

State-of-the-Art Dental Clinic. 

Serving from Port Renfrew to 

the Western Communities. 

Featuring 

Needle-Free 

Laser 

Dentistry! 

NOW ACCEPTING 

NEW PATIENTS 

& EMERGENCIES 

Local Dentists that can 

Calm Your Dental Anxiety! 

Payment plans are available 

We accept all insurance plans 

Visit www.sunriverdental.ca 

2350 Sunriver Way, Sooke 

Call 778-365-0452

Island Parent Magazine Dec-Jan 2023

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?