Grey-Bruce Kids Spring 2025

A FREE MAGAZINE FOR

PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS

SPRING 2025 • Volume 15 Issue 1 • greybrucekids.com

Human

trafficking

It’s happening

in Grey/Bruce

Creating joy

Happy child, healthy child

PERIMENOPAUSE

Tips to feel like

your best self

FREE!

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Spring is in the air

As I sit down to write this, the last traces of winter are still clinging stubbornly to

the landscape. It has been a long, traditional winter in Grey-Bruce – the kind

that tests our patience with endless snowfalls, road closures, biting winds, and dark

mornings.

But now, the promise of spring is finally in the air. The days are stretching longer,

the sun feels warmer, and we can all start to shake off the cold and step forward into

something new.

In this issue we’re taking a look at the dark underbelly of Grey/Bruce in our story on

human trafficking, an uncomfortable but crucial issue in our region. Awareness is the

first step to change, and this article delves into becoming more educated about what is

happening in our area. Thank you to Katie Barker, Youth Sexual Assault and Human

Trafficking Counsellor with the Women’s House Serving Bruce Grey and her team of

professionals, for contributing this very important article.

We are also shining a light on perimenopause – a stage of life that often sneaks up on

women, bringing unexpected changes. This article by Jasmin Blackwood explores why

your hormones may be sabotaging you and what you can do to regain balance during

this little understood stage of a woman’s life.

Raising children is both a joy and a challenge, and fostering happiness in our kids is

more important than ever. In Rebekkah Williams’ piece on raising joyful kids, she

looks at strategies for cultivating resilience, gratitude, and a love for life in the little

ones who mean the most to us.

Awareness is also key when it comes to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder, with an

article brought to us by Kim Galloway of Keystone Child, Youth and Family Services.

This issue affects families in every community, and understanding its causes, effects,

and prevention can help us support those impacted.

As we step into this new season, we hope this issue encourages local parents to embrace

each challenge with knowledge, strength, and

a sense of community. You are not alone on

this journey – let’s support each other and

grow together.

Happy spring!

Amy Irwin, Publisher

CONTENTS

4 Human trafficking

10 Perimenopause

14 Prenatal alcohol

18 Raising joyful kids

26 Resources

30 Recipes

SPRING 2025

Publisher

Amy Irwin

amy@greybrucekids.com

Magazine Design

Becky Grebenjak

Advertising inquiries

amy@greybrucekids.com

Grey-Bruce Kids welcomes your feedback.

EMAIL amy@greybrucekids.com

PHONE 519-524-0101

MAIL P.O. Box 287, Ripley, ON N0G 2R0

Grey-Bruce Kids is distributed for free in Grey and

Bruce counties, and is published each March, June,

September and December. Distribution of this

publication does not constitute endorsement of

information, products or services by Grey-Bruce Kids,

its writers or advertisers. Viewpoints of contributors

and advertisers are not necessarily those of the

Publisher. Grey-Bruce Kids reserves the right to edit,

reject or comment on all material and advertising

contributed. No portion of Grey-Bruce Kids may be

reproduced without the written permission of the

Publisher.

COMMUNITY

Human

trafficking

IT’S HAPPENING IN GREY AND BRUCE COUNTIES

BY KATIE BARKER

4 GREY-BRUCE KIDS • SPRING 2025

Human trafficking

is a dangerous

concern that affects many

communities worldwide,

including Grey and Bruce

counties.

of the size of Prince Edward Island (population of PEI is

156,947 while Grey/Bruce is 174,300).

There are a geographic, socioeconomic, and historical factors

that make some residents of Grey and Bruce particularly

vulnerable to human trafficking. In terms of geography, this

large rural area has easy and direct driving routes to several

large urban centres. These routes allow traffickers easy access in

and out of the region, as well as numerous backroads on which

to travel in order to avoid detection. In fact, 67 per cent of

human trafficking incidents that were disclosed to the Canadian

Human Trafficking Hotline between 2019 and 2022, occurred

in Ontario.

Thousands of Canadian families are impacted by human

trafficking, many think that it could never happen to their

family, or in their community but the truth is it happens in rural

and urban communities alike.

Throughout this article we will explore the reasons behind

human trafficking in our region, the specific vulnerabilities

of rural areas, online safety tips, available resources, guidance

for parents on discussing this critical issue with their children

and what initiatives the Grey Bruce Anti-Human Trafficking

Committee (which is a subcommittee of Violence Prevention

Grey Bruce) is doing to combat human trafficking in our

community.

WHAT IS HUMAN TRAFFICKING?

Human trafficking is when a person is manipulated, controlled

and/or forced into an act against their will to benefit another

person. It can occur with sexual exploitation, forced labour,

forced marriage, servitude and organ removal, as outlined below.

Sexual exploitation – The sale of any sexual act (intercourse,

exotic dancing, pornography, massage parlors, etc.) in which the

individual is manipulated, forced or controlled into a sexual act

to benefit another person.

Organ removal – An umbrella term that covers a number of

unethical or illegal practices. It consists of removing organs from

living donors without consent for financial gain.

Forced labour – Labour trafficking is a form of human

trafficking that can happen in many different industries. It

involves recruiting, moving or holding victims to coerce them

into doing any kind of work.

Forced marriage – A marriage that happens without the consent

or against the will of one or both parties involved, or a marriage

that one or both individuals are forced to stay in.

Servitude – The state of being a slave or completely subject to

someone more powerful.

IS IT HAPPENING HERE?

Yes, human trafficking is happening in Grey and Bruce counties!

It can happen anywhere at any time. Chances are less than a

kilometre from where you live, someone is being trafficked. Grey

and Bruce counties are predominantly rural and are equivalent

Three elements of human trafficking

Act (what is done): recruit, transport, transfer,

harbour, control, conceal, hold.

Means (how it’s done): violence, threat of violence, coercion,

abduction, fraud, deception, abuse of power, prey on

vulnerabilities.

Purpose (why it’s done): forced labour, slavery, servitude, organ

removal, forced labour or services.

Adapted from Human Trafficking Canada: Canada is NOT

Immune, 2nd Edition (2014)

Socioeconomic risk factors faced Grey/Bruce include access to

health care, education, healthy food, and safe and affordable

housing, which are all greatly impacted by income and social

equity. Discrepancies in socioeconomic status influences how

human trafficking impacts our communities and who will be

most at risk. There are transient populations with disposable

income, which can also contribute to the issue.

TALK TO YOUR KIDS

It can be shocking to hear this is happening in your backyard,

but you can address this issue by initiating conversation with

your children and those around you. Discussing the realities

TRAUMA

TO

TRIUMPH

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greybrucekids.com • 5

Discussing

the realities

of human

trafficking, the

importance of

online safety,

and encouraging

them to trust

their instincts

can empower

kids, as well as

other vulnerable

individuals, to

recognize and

avoid potentially

dangerous

situations.

of human trafficking, the importance of online safety, and

encouraging them to trust their instincts can empower kids,

as well as other vulnerable individuals, to recognize and avoid

potentially dangerous situations.

WHO’S MOST AT RISK?

High-risk populations include homeless youth, young women

and girls, Indigenous women and girls, youth in care, individuals

with mental health problems and/or addiction issues, new

immigrants and 2SLGBTQIA+ youth. Some of the main

risk factors include mental health issues, body image issues,

low self-worth, low self-esteem, learning disabilities, social

isolation, abuse, or lack of support from family, violence in

the home, poverty, need for survival, desire for a better life,

intergenerational trauma, and the implications of Colonialism.

Did you know that 96 per cent of human trafficking victims

are women and girls? The average age of a victim of human

trafficking is 11-14 years old, and 91 per cent of human

trafficking victims know their trafficker. These individuals

are most at risk because traffickers will exploit vulnerabilities

when seeking their next victim. It is important to note this is

something that can happen to anyone.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS?

When we know who is most vulnerable, and the signs to watch

for, we can take steps to prevent it from happening. Educating

yourself and those around you is the first step in combating

this issue. Outlined below are the signs of both sex and labour

trafficking, which are the two more common forms in Grey/

Bruce.

Indicators that someone is being lured/groomed or already

involved in sex trafficking include:

• sudden change in behaviour (e.g. skipping school,

falling grades, withdrawn, secretive) and appearance

(e.g. wearing clothing that is not age appropriate)

• suddenly being given expensive things (e.g. clothing,

purses, jewelry, hair, nails) and being showered with

attention


• isolated or turned against family and friends

• new boyfriend who they won’t introduce to you

• staying out late, missing curfew

• becomes defensive when questioned about changes in

appearance and behaviour

• uses new lingo or slang

• inconsistencies in their story

• excessive amounts of cash

• signs of branding, tattoos with male names

Indicators of labour trafficking include:

• have a job offer that seems too good to be true

• have an employer who makes threats of deportation or

reporting immigration status to police, or withholds

personal identification

• feels their life or those they love could be in danger

if they do not work long hours and/or accept a lower

wage

• must relocate with few details and no payment upfront

• live and/or work in inhumane/terrible conditions

WAYS TO HELP A FRIEND

Do not take matters into your own hands – your personal safety

could be at risk. Those involved in human trafficking often use

violence, so it is important to keep yourself safe. If it is safe to

do so, provide support for your friend in a non-judgmental,

compassionate manner and let them know you care and are there

for them.

Tell them about the resources available in the community, and

approach a safe adult, such as a school resource officer, for help.

You can also contact Crime Stoppers to report anonymously or

contact the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-

1010. If you or the other person are ever in immediate danger or

crisis, call 911.

STAYING SAFE ONLINE

Share the importance of privacy – Explain why they should

not share their full name, address, phone number, or school

details online. Add an extra layer of protection by teaching them

how and why to turn off locations on their social apps. Staying

safe online is important and educating your children with

information like this is the first step in staying safe.

Set some ground rules – Establish clear screen time limits and

content boundaries and make sure your kids understand them.

Explain why these rules are important and how they can help

protect them from online risks. Consistent guidelines will help

them navigate the online world safely.

Stay in the loop – Keep an eye on your children’s online

activities. Regular check-ins can help you stay aware of their

online interactions. Parental control software can help you

periodically check in on their social media and other online

activity. This is not about invading privacy; it is about ensuring

their safety and recognizing danger.

Keep the conversation going – Encourage your kids to talk

about their online experiences. Teach them about potential

dangers and remind them they can always turn to you with

questions or concerns. Open communication is key to making

sure they feel safe, supported, and informed.

The Grey Bruce Anti-Human Trafficking Committee is a

subcommittee of Violence Prevention Grey Bruce, which

meets monthly to discuss what trends, changes and challenges

we are seeing in regard to this issue, working on better system

navigation for service providers who help support victims and

survivors of human trafficking, and what initiatives the group

focuses on. Currently the group’s main focuses have been

preventative work through prioritizing community education

and engagement.

The group has also created resources for service providers and

businesses, as well as giving more presentations, workshops, and

training for both service providers and concerned community

members, with hopes to expand into schools in the future.

There are approximately 35 agencies and organizations that

participate in this committee, as well as survivors of human

trafficking, concerned community members, and representatives

from the Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking. The

committee is engaging in communities throughout Grey/Bruce

and developing unique and important solutions to address these

issues.


Keep an eye on

your children’s

online activities.

Regular check-ins

can help you stay

aware of their online

interactions.

LOCAL RESOURCES

Crisis services

Victim Service Bruce Grey – 1-866-376-9852

Bruce Grey Children and Family Services

(under 16 years old) – 1-855-322-4453

Sexual Assault and Partner Abuse Care Centre – 519-376-2121

ext. 2458

Immediate Emergency Response – 911

Police Services

Grey Bruce OPP – 1-888-310-1122

South Bruce OPP – 1-888-310-1122

Hanover Police Service – 519-364-2411

Owen Sound Police Services – 519-376-1234

Neyaashiinigmiing First Nation Police – 519-534-1233

Saugeen Shores Police Service – 519-832-2500

West Grey Police Service – 519-369-3046

Shelters/emergency housing

YMCA Owen Sound Grey Bruce-Housing Services – 519-371-

9230

Safe N’ Sound – 519-470-2222

Kabaeshiwim Respite Women’s Shelter (Saugeen First Nation)

– 519-797-3677

Women’s House Serving Bruce Grey

– 1-800-265-3026

Women’s Centre Grey & Bruce – 1-800-265-3722

The Anti Human Trafficking Youth Residence (Studio Blue)

– 226-668-0357


Helplines

Chrysallis Network National Human Trafficking Helpline –

1-866-528-7109

The Women’s Centre Anti-Human Trafficking Crisis Line – 519-

371-5818

Text Line: 226-668-0357

National Human Trafficking Helpline

– 1-833-999-9211

Kids Help Phone – 1-800-668-6868

Ontario 211 Community and Social Services Helpline – 211 GBK

KATIE BARKER is a youth sexual assault and anti-human trafficking

counsellor for Women’s House Serving Bruce and Grey, offering

one-on-one counselling, advocacy support, case management,

safety planning, and court support to individuals who are at risk of,

entrenched in the lifestyle, and/or survivors of human trafficking.

Katie is also currently the coordinator for the Grey Bruce Anti-Human

Trafficking Committee. She has been a Child and Youth Counsellor

for over 12 years and has worked in many different areas including

adolescent mental health, teaching, program planning and more.

ONGOING

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HEALTH

PERIMENOPAUSE

WHY YOUR HORMONES ARE SABOTAGING YOU

BY JASMIN BLACKWOOD


Perimenopause is like a sneaky plot twist in your favourite

show – suddenly, everything you thought you knew about

your body changes. Your metabolism slows down, energy tanks,

and, worst of all, that stubborn belly weight seems glued to your

midsection.

It’s not just your imagination, and it’s not because you’re doing

something wrong. Hormonal shifts during this stage of life,

which generally begins between ages 40 and 45, but can be

sooner, can wreak havoc on your body, leading to weight loss

resistance, fatigue, irritability, and more.

The good news? You don’t have to surrender to this chaotic

phase. By understanding the hormonal changes happening in

your body, you can take actionable steps to regain control. The

alternative – continuing to follow outdated advice and quick

fixes – leads to frustration and burnout. When you know how

to address these changes, you can ditch the overwhelm and start

feeling like your best self again.

Unfortunately, too many women aren’t given the right tools or

information to manage perimenopause. Instead, they’re handed

generic advice like, “Just eat less and move more,” or are told

to go on a weight loss medication, which does little to address

the root cause of the problem. Let’s break down exactly what’s

happening and how you can fight back.

PERIMENOPAUSE AND WEIGHT LOSS

When it comes to weight loss resistance during perimenopause,

hormones are the main challenge. Estrogen, progesterone,

insulin, and cortisol are like a hormonal quartet, and when one

gets out of tune, the whole symphony is off. Estrogen begins to

fluctuate wildly, often leading to an increase in belly fat as your

body stores energy for “emergency” purposes. Progesterone,

which has calming effects, declines, leaving you feeling more

anxious and less balanced. Insulin sensitivity takes a hit, making

it easier to gain weight and harder to lose it. And let’s not forget

cortisol, the stress hormone, which spikes more frequently and

keeps your body in fat-storage mode.

Together, these changes create the perfect storm for weight gain,

fatigue, and irritability.

Yet, it’s not just the hormones themselves. Perimenopause throws

your entire system into chaos. Minerals can become depleted,

blood sugar becomes unstable, your gut health can decline, and

stress takes a bigger toll than ever before. The result? Weight that

won’t budge, low energy levels, and mood swings that can rival

your teenagers.

TAKE BACK CONTROL OF HORMONES

The first step to tackling perimenopause is stabilizing your

blood sugar. This isn’t just about avoiding sugar spikes; it’s


about creating a steady fuel supply for your body so your

hormones can function optimally. When your blood sugar

fluctuates, cortisol and insulin step in to “help,” but their

efforts often lead to more harm than good, promoting fat

storage and increasing inflammation.

Start your day with a high-protein breakfast – think eggs

with avocado and greens instead of toast or cereal. This helps

stabilize your blood sugar from the start. Pairing carbs with

proteins and healthy fats throughout the day is another gamechanger.

For example, if you love sweet potatoes, top them

with some shredded chicken or a drizzle of olive oil to avoid

blood sugar spikes.

Next, it’s time to tackle cortisol, the hormone that can make

or break your weight loss efforts. Stress management is critical

because elevated cortisol levels signal your body to hold onto

fat, especially around your midsection. Here’s the catch – stress

relief isn’t just about taking bubble baths or booking a spa day

(though those don’t hurt!). Chronic stress needs to be addressed

daily. Gentle movement like yoga or walking outdoors can

lower cortisol levels, while mini stress breaks, such as deep belly

breathing for two minutes, humming, and time in nature all

work wonders for calming your nervous system.

Sleep is another major player – creating an evening routine that

limits screen time and incorporates calming supplements like

magnesium glycinate can transform how your body manages

stress.

Gut health often flies under the radar but plays a massive role

in hormonal optimization. During perimenopause, your gut

may struggle to detox excess estrogen, leading to even more

imbalances. Supporting your gut isn’t just about popping a

probiotic and hoping for the best. It’s about creating an antiinflammatory

environment that promotes healing. Incorporate

foods like leafy greens, berries, and fatty fish into your meals to

reduce inflammation and support hormone production. Adding

fermented foods like sauerkraut or dairy-free yogurt can also

help improve gut flora. Staying hydrated and ensuring you’re

having daily bowel movements are critical for detoxing excess

hormones effectively.

Sometimes, food alone isn’t enough to meet your body’s

demands during perimenopause. This is where the right

supplements can make all the difference. Magnesium glycinate

is excellent for relaxation and better sleep, while Vitamin D

supports hormone production and immune health. Omega-3

fatty acids combat inflammation, and adaptogens like


ashwagandha or rhodiola can help regulate cortisol. But before

you dive headfirst into the supplement aisle, it’s important to

personalize your approach.

Mineral imbalances are another hidden disruptor that can throw

your metabolism and hormones into chaos. Key minerals like

magnesium, potassium, and sodium are essential for processes

like energy production, blood sugar regulation, and stress

response. When these minerals are depleted – often due to

chronic stress, poor diet or inflammation – it creates a ripple

effect that disrupts hormone optimization and leaves your body

struggling to function. Functional testing, like Hair Tissue

Mineral Analysis (HTMA), can reveal these imbalances and

guide a targeted approach to replenishing what your body

needs to activate fat release, as well as solving other frustrating

perimenopausal symptoms.

Finally, consistency is the secret sauce to making these changes

stick. Perimenopause is a season, not a life sentence, but it

requires a new approach to health and weight management.

Quick fixes won’t cut it here. Lasting results come from stacking

small wins over time. For instance, start with just one change

– like swapping your breakfast or committing to a 10-minute

daily walk. Track progress in areas beyond the scale, such as

energy levels, sleep quality, and mood. These often improve first

and serve as encouraging signs that your body is responding.

Celebrate every win, no matter how small, because these

victories add up to big results.

FINDING HORMONAL OPTIMIZATION

Perimenopause doesn’t have to mean resigning yourself to weight

gain, low energy, and mood swings. By stabilizing your blood

sugar, managing cortisol, supporting your gut, and giving your

body the right nutrients, you can create a solid foundation

for hormonal optimization. The key is understanding what’s

happening in your body and working with it, not against it.

If you’re ready to take the first step, start small. Try swapping

out your usual breakfast for a high-protein option tomorrow or

schedule a 10-minute outdoor walk. From there, build on those

changes and stay consistent. The sooner you start making these

shifts, the sooner you’ll notice results – trust me, you’ll love the

version of you that comes out on the other side.

Perimenopause might be a plot twist, but you’re the one who

gets to write the ending. Let’s make it a good one.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace

consulting with a medical professional.

GBK

JASMIN BLACKWOOD is a Registered Nurse with 18 years of

experience and a Registered Holistic Nutritionist specializing in helping

women over 40 overcome weight loss resistance, regain energy, and

feel confident in their bodies again. Jasmin is on a mission to show

women that meds or “eating less and exercising more” aren’t the only

solutions. By addressing the underlying causes of hormonal imbalances,

she helps her clients reclaim their energy, vitality, and confidence –

without the guesswork. Learn more at blackwoodnutrition.ca.

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HEALTH

Growing

baby’s

best brain

HOW PRENATAL ALCOHOL EXPOSURE

CAN CHANGE THE BRAIN

BY KIM GALLOWAY


According to StatsCan, about 75 per

cent of Canadian women drink

alcohol, and Canadian obstetricians

report that almost half the pregnancies

in the country are unplanned. With

these numbers in mind, it is important

to understand the risks.

CanFASD estimates the prevalence of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum

Disorder (FASD) at about four per cent of the general

population. That is more than Down syndrome, autism and

cerebral palsy combined. However, they also acknowledge that

some specific populations may be at greater risk due to complex

social, cultural, and economic factors that influence alcohol use

during pregnancy.

With growing awareness, it is encouraging to see that fewer

health care providers are telling expectant parents that drinking

alcohol during pregnancy is acceptable. Research shows that

consuming more than seven standard drinks per week, or binge

drinking (defined as more than four or five drinks on at least

two occasions), significantly increases the risk of neurological

effects in developing fetuses. However, the reality is that we

do not yet know what a “safe” level of alcohol consumption

during pregnancy might be – if such a limit exists at all. Given

that we are all unique individuals, and have different abilities

to metabolize alcohol, the safest message for women who are

planning to conceive or who may become pregnant should be to

avoid alcohol entirely to minimize any potential risks.

ALCOHOL-EXPOSED BABIES

What happens to alcohol-exposed babies during pregnancy

depends on several factors, including parental stress, how easily

alcohol is metabolized, amounts of alcohol, and timing. Alcohol

crosses the placenta and can affect whatever is developing

in the baby on the day of exposure. There are now over 300

medical conditions potentially linked to Prenatal Alcohol

Exposure (PAE), but the most observed are differences in

brain development and function. Not only is the brain more

susceptible to alcohol, but it is also developing throughout the

entire pregnancy. In most cases, FASD is considered an invisible

condition. This is because the signs of PAE are typically not

visible and often require specialized assessments to be identified.

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

A common characteristic among these children is that they

often function at a younger developmental level than their age.

As a result, they may appear sillier compared to their peers or

show a preference for interacting with younger children and

engaging in activities suited to a younger age group. As a parent,

it’s important to have realistic expectations that meet the child

where they are at, not necessarily at their age. It’s important to

remember that these children may not be deliberately refusing to

complete a task; instead, it could be that they simply can’t do it

on that day.

These kids also struggle to pay attention and focus more than

their peers do, even with ADHD medication. They might

take longer to process what they were told to do or forget

instructions. They may struggle with emotional regulation,

organizing, planning, predicting and problem solving. They

might not connect the dots between cause and effect.

These children’s verbal skills are often much stronger than their

ability to understand what is being said. This can be misleading,

as adults can easily misinterpret a child’s use of big words to

mean they understand. Repeating adult words or phrases can

be a way of hiding what they don’t know. Frequently, they have

little to no sense of time and might use the wrong word to tell

you when they went somewhere (like saying ‘last week’ when it

was last year).

These kids are often very ‘right’ or ‘wrong,’ concrete thinkers.

They will struggle more to understand what is being asked of

them if the instructions are vague or too long. Keep requests or

instructions short, specific and very clear. Taking words at face

value or struggling with concepts that are abstract can often lead

to misunderstanding. This in turn leads to over-reactions and/

or social and relationship issues that no one seems to understand

the origins. So, if someone you know is blowing things way out

of proportion, step back and consider how it was said and what

words were used. Could they have misunderstood what was

meant because they were taking those words literally? A parent

I know once told her child, “That was the icing on the cake!”

While most of us understand this as a figure of speech meaning

she had reached her limit, her child had a meltdown, believing it

literally meant everyone else had cake except him.


Often kids with FASD struggle with academics, despite being smart.

They might have an average IQ but can’t always access or retrieve

what they know, when they need it. They sometimes have more

difficulty than peers with fine or gross motor skills, balance and sensory

processing.

Sensory reactions are fascinating. We take in information from our

environment through our senses – what we see, hear, touch, smell

and taste. Usually, our brains can accurately tell us what it means, but

not always. For some people those sensory cues are misinterpreted

or simply go wonky. The ability to know where our own body parts

are in relation to each other, or the ability to read our own body cues

(temperature, pain, hunger or the need to use the washroom) are all

sensory related. As you can imagine, if we feel things more intensely

or less intensely than others do, we can appear to be “over-reacting” or

“under-reacting.”

What others around you don’t see are the little things that add up

over a day, like a crooked sock, scratchy pants, a hard seat or a smelly

garbage can, that can end with an explosion of emotions over getting

the wrong cookie. It’s important to remember that many individuals

experience sensory difficulties, and alcohol exposure is just one of many

potential factors. It is by no means the sole explanation for those with

heightened sensory responses and intense emotions.


WHY IT IS IMPORTANT?

If individuals with FASD (or other neurodiversities including

ADHD, autism or learning disabilities) are not understood

and supported for success, they will most likely get frustrated,

anxious, be hard on themselves or others, and act out over time.

If words and instructions are coming at them more quickly than

they can process and understand, or words aren’t clear and are

easily misinterpreted, plus they have big emotions, big sensory

input and difficulty sitting still, these kids will crash, or run, or

lash out.

Consider the student sitting in an assembly, overwhelmed by

the noise, the crowd, the smells, and the hard seat. What does

he do? He either leaves or acts out in a way that results in being

removed from the gym. In doing so, we inadvertently teach him

that misbehaviour is the way to meet his needs for space and

relief from sensory overload. He will continue to act up to get

his needs met if we don’t do things differently to prevent the

meltdown.

Kids run from the gym or a noisy classroom. Adults can end up

running from jobs, responsibilities, and relationships. Without

understanding and the right supports, adults with FASD are at

greater risk for mental health challenges, struggles to maintain

employment, and involvement with the justice system. There

are a great many successful adults with FASD; the trick it is to

identify it and support them to reach their full potential and

focus on their strengths! These individuals are often creative,

artistic, likeable, generous, helpful and non-judgmental.

HOW DO WE KNOW?

The only way to know if FASD is an explanation for the traits

we see in a child, is to access the required assessments to identify

brain differences and confirm alcohol exposure. To be honest,

obtaining these assessments can be expensive and challenging,

and confirming alcohol exposure is often equally difficult. That

doesn’t mean these kids can’t get help. Parents can access mental

health services or other therapies to help their children cope,

they can access parental supports and resources for themselves,

and schools have access to resources and training, so everyone

around this child can accommodate them in the absence of

a confirmed diagnosis. The approaches adults use can have a

positive effect regardless of the underlying condition.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Support expectant and hoping-to-conceive parents in their

decision to go alcohol free. Offer mocktails or non-alcoholic

beverages at parties. Respect personal choices without imposing

or pressuring. Dad’s role cannot be ignored either; it will be much

easier for mom to say no if Dad does too. A few years ago, women

were occasionally encouraged to have a drink to ease contractions

or reduce stress. However, numerous studies conducted since then

have provided us with a much clearer understanding, and we are

now far better informed about the risks.

FASD is certainly not the sole cause of all challenging

behaviours in children, but the strategies and approaches used

to support these children can be beneficial regardless of the

underlying cause. GBK

KIM GALLOWAY, BScN, RN, has been a Registered Nurse and educator

for almost 40 years. She has spent the last 28 years supporting families

in a variety of children’s mental health programs at Keystone Child,

Youth & Family Services, most recently as a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum

Disorder Coordinator. She and her husband have three adult children.

Learn more at www.keystonebrucegrey.org.

Register online at

bwdsb.on.ca

Kindergarten students must

be at least 4 years of age by

December 31, 2025 to register.


FAMILY

Raising

joyful kids

WHY SEEKING JOY BENEFITS KIDS’ MENTAL

WELL-BEING BY REBEKKAH WILLIAMS

We don’t often think of deliberately seeking joy. In a world

filled with so many distractions and pressures, parents

face unique challenges in helping their children experience and

sustain a sense of joy.

Joy is more than fleeting happiness – it’s a deep-rooted state

of well-being and contentment that can equip kids to navigate

life’s ups and downs with resilience and optimism. As parents,

fostering joy in your child’s life is one of the greatest gifts you

can give, but how do you cultivate this lasting sense of joy? Here,

we explore strategies that draw on psychology, mindfulness, and

family bonding to nurture joy in your child’s daily life.

BUILD A FOUNDATION

Helping children cultivate joy is one of the most meaningful gifts

parents can provide. By creating opportunities for unstructured

play, embedding joyful rituals into daily life, and fostering a

supportive and connected family environment, parents can

nurture resilience, creativity, and emotional well-being in their

children. In a world that often prioritizes achievement and

productivity, it’s vital to remember the importance of joy as a

foundation for a balanced and fulfilling life.

Children who learn to embrace joy carry its benefits into

adulthood, becoming individuals who can find beauty in the

mundane, strength in connection, and happiness in the present

moment. This legacy of joy is not only a gift for childhood but

a lifelong compass guiding them toward health, happiness, and

well-being.

THE FOUNDATIONS OF JOY

Joy vs happiness – Happiness often depends on external

circumstances, such as receiving a toy or winning a game. Joy,

on the other hand, is an internal state that persists even when

circumstances aren’t perfect. Teaching kids this distinction can

help them understand that joy comes from within and doesn’t

depend on what they have or achieve.

Modelling joy – Children learn by example, so if you

demonstrate a joyful attitude, even in the face of challenges, your

children are more likely to adopt the same mindset. This doesn’t

mean suppressing negative emotions, but rather showing how to

find gratitude and hope even during tough times.

HOW JOY BENEFITS MENTAL HEALTH

Actively seeking joy is a powerful antidote to the stress and

anxiety many children face today. As societal pressures increase,

joy acts as a buffer, helping children build resilience and

maintain a positive outlook. The benefits of cultivating joy

extend beyond the momentary experience, deeply influencing

a child’s emotional and psychological health. When children

experience joy, their brains release dopamine, a neurotransmitter

associated with feelings of happiness and reward. This positive

reinforcement creates a feedback loop, encouraging them to seek

more joyful experiences. Over time, this can rewire the brain to

focus on positivity, fostering a mindset that is more optimistic

and adaptable.

Joy also promotes mindfulness, helping children stay present

and engaged in the moment. This practice of savouring joyful

experiences can reduce anxiety and improve their ability to

handle challenges. For example, a child who spends time

journalling about their favourite moments of the day is more

likely to develop a habit of noticing and appreciating the good

around them.

Moreover, joy is deeply connected to self-esteem. When

children feel joy, they are more likely to see themselves and the

world in a positive light. Celebrating their achievements, no

matter how small, reinforces their sense of worth and boosts

their confidence.

PHYSICAL BENEFITS OF JOY

The benefits of joy extend beyond emotional well-being to

significantly impact physical health. Joy triggers the release

of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and reduces the

levels of stress hormones like cortisol. This can lower blood

pressure, boost the immune system, and improve overall physical

resilience.

Children who experience joy regularly are more likely to engage

in physical activities that promote health. Joyful moments often

involve movement, whether it’s dancing, playing tag, or jumping

on a trampoline. These activities enhance cardiovascular health

and motor skills, and also contribute to better sleep patterns and

increased energy levels.

Moreover, joy has a profound impact on brain health. The

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Imagine.

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positive emotions associated with joy enhance cognitive

function, improving memory, attention, and problem-solving

skills. A child who feels joyful and supported is more likely to

approach challenges with curiosity and perseverance, further

reinforcing their physical and mental wellness.

CREATING SPACE AND

OPPORTUNITIES FOR JOY

Children naturally gravitate toward joy, but as they navigate

structured environments and increasing responsibilities, they

need intentional opportunities to explore and express it.

Creating space for joy begins with a conscious effort to slow

down and prioritize moments of connection, play, and creativity.

Unstructured play is one of the most effective ways to nurture

joy. When children have the freedom to explore, imagine, and

create on their own terms, they develop a sense of autonomy and

wonder. Activities like building a blanket fort, running through

sprinklers, or simply daydreaming encourage them to engage

with the world in joyful ways.

Parents can also foster joy by designing environments that

inspire curiosity and delight. A corner filled with art supplies,

a backyard ripe for exploration, or a bookshelf brimming with

captivating stories can provide endless opportunities for children

to discover what brings them happiness. These spaces don’t need

to be elaborate – what matters is their ability to spark joy and

invite children to explore their interests. Additionally, families

can create rituals that celebrate joy, such as weekend pancake

breakfasts, nightly storytelling sessions, or impromptu dance

parties. These moments of shared connection offer children a

sense of stability while encouraging them to embrace the simple

pleasures of life.

STRATEGIES TO CULTIVATE JOY

Encourage gratitude – Gratitude is a powerful antidote to

negativity. Regularly practicing gratitude helps children focus on

what they have rather than what they lack. Here’s how:

• Daily gratitude rituals. At dinner or bedtime, ask your

child to name three things they’re grateful for. This simple

exercise can shift their focus to the positive.

• Gratitude journals. Encourage older children to keep a

journal where they jot down moments for which they’re

thankful. Younger kids can draw pictures of things that

make them happy.

• Modelling gratitude. Share your own gratitude moments

with your child, whether it’s appreciating a sunny day or a

kind gesture from a friend.


FOSTER STRONG RELATIONSHIPS

Relationships are a cornerstone of joy. Help your child

develop meaningful connections with family, friends, and the

community through:

Family time – Schedule regular family activities, such as game

nights, outdoor adventures, or simply cooking a meal together.

Shared experiences build trust and closeness.

Teaching empathy – Encourage your child to consider others’

feelings and practice acts of kindness, such as writing thank-you

notes or helping a neighbour.

Building friendships – Support your child in making and

maintaining friendships by hosting playdates or teaching

conflict-resolution skills.

ENCOURAGE PLAY

Play is essential for cultivating joy. Through unstructured,

creative play, kids learn to explore, imagine, and express

themselves. Examples include:

Free play – Allow time for unstructured activities where kids can

follow their interests without pressure.

Outdoor play – Nature has a restorative effect on children’s

well-being. Encourage outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or

simply playing in the park.

Family play – Join in! Whether it’s building LEGO sets or

playing hide-and-seek, your involvement enhances the joy.

TEACH MINDFULNESS

Mindfulness helps children anchor themselves in the present

moment, reducing anxiety and enhancing joy through:

Mindful breathing – Teach your child simple breathing

exercises to calm their mind. For instance, have them imagine

they’re blowing up a balloon as they inhale and exhale deeply.

Mindful observations – Encourage them to notice details in

their surroundings, such as the sound of birds or the texture of

leaves.

Mindfulness apps – There are many child-friendly apps with

guided meditations and exercises to introduce mindfulness in a

fun way.

PROMOTE A GROWTH MINDSET

A growth mindset helps children find joy in learning and

perseverance by:

Celebrating effort – Praise your child for their hard work rather

than just their achievements. For example, instead of saying,

“You’re so smart!” say, “You worked really hard on that puzzle!”

Normalize mistakes – Teach them that mistakes are part of

learning. Share stories of your own setbacks and how you

overcame them.

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Encourage curiosity – Foster a love of learning by encouraging

questions and exploring new hobbies or interests together.

CULTIVATE OPTIMISM

Optimism is closely tied to joy. Help your child see challenges as

opportunities through:

Positive reframing – When something goes wrong, help your

child find the silver lining. For instance, if it rains during a

picnic, suggest enjoying indoor activities instead.

Vision boards – Create a vision board together, showcasing

dreams and goals. This visual reminder can inspire hope and

motivation.

Focus on solutions – Instead of dwelling on problems, guide

your child to brainstorm solutions. This builds resilience and a

proactive attitude.

CREATING COLLECTIVE JOY

In the hustle of daily life, families often focus on individual

achievements and responsibilities, but creating moments of

collective joy can strengthen bonds and make lasting memories.

Shared joy enriches relationships, fosters resilience, and teaches

children the importance of togetherness.

Collective joy starts with intentionality. Set aside time for

activities everyone can enjoy, whether it’s a game night, a dance

party in the kitchen, or a picnic in the park. These shared

experiences don’t need to be elaborate – what matters is the

connection and laughter they bring.

Traditions are another powerful way to foster collective joy.

Weekly rituals like pancake breakfasts or monthly family movie

nights create a sense of anticipation and belonging. Even

spontaneous traditions, like celebrating small victories with ice

cream runs, can bring families closer.

Celebrating each other’s successes and milestones as a family

also creates joy. When one person achieves something, the

whole family can join in the excitement, reinforcing a culture of

support and unity.

Lastly, practicing gratitude as a group – by sharing things you’re

thankful for or reflecting on happy moments – can cultivate

a positive family dynamic. Collective joy teaches children the

value of connection, creating a foundation of love and happiness

that will last a lifetime.


CREATING JOYFUL TRADITIONS

Traditions provide a sense of stability and belonging, which

contribute to joy through:

Seasonal celebrations – Establish traditions for holidays, such

as decorating the house or baking cookies together.

Weekly rituals – Create small rituals, like Sunday pancake

breakfasts or Friday movie nights.

Personalized celebrations – Celebrate milestones and

achievements, no matter how small. This shows your child that

their efforts are valued.

EMBEDDING JOY INTO DAILY LIFE

To cultivate joy consistently, it’s important to embed it into the

fabric of daily life. This doesn’t mean constantly entertaining

children or shielding them from difficulties, but rather creating

a balanced environment where joy is a natural and recurring

presence.

One way to achieve this is by incorporating moments of joy

into everyday routines. For example, morning rituals can

include listening to uplifting music or sharing a lighthearted

conversation during breakfast. Similarly, bedtime routines can

involve storytelling, singing lullabies, or reflecting on the best

parts of the day.

Creating a rhythm that balances work and play is equally

important. Ensuring that children have downtime to relax

and pursue their interests helps them recharge and maintain a

positive outlook. Scheduled family time, such as evening walks

or weekend outings, provides opportunities for connection and

joy amidst busy schedules.

Encouraging children to express their individuality also fosters

joy. Supporting their hobbies, interests, and creative pursuits

allows them to explore what makes them happy. Whether

it’s drawing, playing an instrument, or experimenting in the

kitchen, these activities give children a sense of purpose and

fulfillment.

Additionally, teaching children to embrace humour can be a

valuable tool for cultivating joy. Sharing jokes, laughing at funny

moments, and finding humour in everyday situations help create

a lighthearted and joyful atmosphere at home.

ADDRESSING CHALLENGES

Sometimes, cultivating joy requires addressing underlying issues

including:

Managing screen time – Excessive screen time can diminish joy

by replacing real-world interactions and activities. Set boundaries

such as:

• Tech-free zones. Create areas in the house, like the dining

table, where screens are off-limits.

• Quality over quantity. Encourage screen activities that

promote creativity, such as coding apps or art tutorials,

rather than passive consumption.

Always Learning, Learning All Ways

SUMMER

SCHOOL

Grades 9-12 online credits

Secondary full credit

and credit recovery

Earn co-op credits

while working

Reach ahead credits

for Grade 8 students

Contact your Guidance

Teacher or email

summerschool@bwdsb.on.ca

bwdsb.on.ca


• Modelling balance. Show your child that you, too, value time away from

screens.

NAVIGATING STRESS AND ANXIETY

Children experience stress and anxiety, which can hinder joy. Equip them with

coping tools such as:

Open communication – Create a safe space for your child to express their

feelings without judgment.

Relaxation techniques – Teach strategies like progressive muscle relaxation or

visualization.

Professional support – If anxiety persists, consider consulting a child therapist,

psychologist or counsellor.

DEALING WITH DISAPPOINTMENT

Life’s inevitable disappointments can be teachable moments by:

Validating feelings – Let your child know it’s OK to feel sad or frustrated.

Focusing on the positive – Help them identify what they learned from the

experience.

Encouraging resilience – Remind them of past challenges they’ve overcome.

THE ROLE OF COMMUNITY

Joy is magnified when shared. Encourage your child to connect with their

broader community by:

Volunteering – Acts of service foster a sense of purpose and fulfillment.


Volunteer as a family at a local shelter, community garden, or

fundraising event.

Joining clubs – Whether it’s a sports team, Scout troop, or art

class, being part of a group helps children develop a sense of

belonging and camaraderie.

Attending community events – Festivals, parades, and other

local events can expose your child to new experiences and

traditions, broadening their perspective and bringing joy

through connection.

THE LASTING IMPACT

By fostering joy, you’re equipping your child with tools that

will serve them throughout their life. Joyful children are more

resilient, empathetic, and capable of navigating challenges.

They’re also more likely to grow into adults who spread positivity

and kindness in their communities.

Parenting is an ever-evolving journey, and there will be times

when joy feels elusive – for you or your child. In those moments,

remember that cultivating joy is not about perfection but

persistence. Small, consistent efforts add up over time, creating a

foundation of joy that your child can carry into adulthood.

Let joy be your compass as you guide your child through life.

After all, it’s not just about raising happy kids – it’s about raising

joyful, resilient, and compassionate human beings. GBK

REBEKKAH WILLIAMS is a Registered Psychotherapist and writer,

specializing in the treatment of sexual trauma for over 36 years. She

is the co-director of Nemesis Group, a private psychotherapy practice

and is co-authoring And…This Is What Happened: Children Expressing

Trauma Through Art – a collection of professional case studies,

dedicated to artistic-based traumatic expression and resilience. Learn

more at www.nemesisgroup.co.


RESOURCES

ABUSE

Assaulted Women’s Helpline

Crisis line: 1-866-863-0511

www.awhl.org

Bruce Grey Child and Family Services

(Bruce and Grey Children’s Aid Societies

amalgamated April 1, 2012)

1-855-322-4453

Keystone Child, Youth & Family Services

1-800-567-2384; 519-371-4773

keystonebrucegrey.org

Owen Sound

Saugeen First Nation - Kabaeshiwim

Respite Women’s Shelter

519-797-2521

cgeorge@saugeenfirstnation.ca

www.saugeenfirstnation.ca

Sexual Assault and Partner

Abuse Care Centre

Grey Bruce Health Services

1-888-525-0552 or www.gbhs.on.ca

Owen Sound

Victim Services Bruce Grey

Perth

Crisis: 1-866-376-9852

Administration: 1-888-577-3111

info@victim-services.com

www.victim-services.com

Victim/Witness Assistance Program

Owen Sound - 1-866-259-4823

Walkerton - 1-866-994-9904

attorneygeneral@ontario.ca

http://bit.ly/ujKyeE

Women’s Centre (Grey and Bruce)

Administration: 519-376-0755

Crisis: 1-800-265-3722

womenscentre@bmts.com

www.bmts.com/~womenscentre

Owen Sound

Women’s House Serving Bruce and Grey

Sexual assault crisis: 1-866-578-5566

Crisis line: 1-800-265-3026

Administration: (519) 396-9814

crisis@whsbg.on.ca

www.whsbg.on.ca

Kincardine

BREASTFEEDING

Brockton and Area Family Health Team

1-866-507-2021 or 519-881-1920

RN/certified Lactation Consultant available

www.bafht.com

Walkerton

Grey Bruce Health Unit

1-800-263-3456

publichealth@publichealthgreybruce.on.ca

www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca

Owen Sound

Hanover Family Health Team

RN/Certified Lactation Consultant

519-506-4348

www.hanoverfht.ca

La Leche League Canada

Owen Sound; 519-376-5916; www.lllc.ca

Moms Walkerton

New Mom support

320 Durham St.., Walkerton; 519-379-6769

Support groups

Southampton, Port Elgin, Paisley, and Tara -

519-797-2010

Kincardine, Ripley, Tiverton, and Lucknow -

519-368-4847

South-Bruce Breastfeeding Buddies -

519-881-1920

Wiarton and Bruce Peninsula - 519-534-0912

Markdale - 519-369-3381

Owen Sound - 519-372-1330

The Mama Nurse

www.themamanurse.com

CHILDBIRTH

Glamma Doula

Christine Piotrowski, Postpartum Doula

www.glammadoula.com; 519-477-9985

Hanover and District Hospital Obstetrics/

Family Centred Care Birthing Centre

519-364-2340

admin@hanoverhospital.on.ca

www.hanoverhospital.on.ca

Jessica Connor Doula Services

519-580-0612 or jconnor.doula@gmail.com

www.jessicaconnor.ca

Midwives Grey Bruce

519-371-2886

www.midwivesgreybruce.com

Owen Sound

Owen Sound Hospital Labour and Delivery

519-376-2121

www.gbhs.on.ca/owensound.php

The Womb Bruce County

www.thewomb.ca

Walkerton Hospital Family Birthing Centre

519-881-1220

www.sbghc.on.ca

CHILD CARE

Acorn Montessori

705-606-1642

Thornbury

Amabel-Sauble Child Care Centre

519-422-3611

Sauble Beach

Beaver Valley Outreach

519-599-2577

Bobi’s Playschool

519-538-5483

Meaford

Brockton Child Care Centre

sbross@brockton.ca

Bruce County Childcare Services

519-881-0431 or www.brucecounty.on.ca

Walkerton

Bruce Peninsula Family Centre

519-793-4100

Lion’s Head

Chesley Nursery School

519-363-9544

Durham Nursery School

519-369-6973

Grey County Childcare Services

519-376-7324, www.greycounty.ca/childcare

Happy Hearts Day Care Centre

519-376-1284

Owen Sound

Inglenook Creche Day Care

519-371-9471; Owen Sound

Kids & Us Community Childcare

and Family Education Centres

Ayton - 519-665-2022

Dundalk - 519-923-2182

Durham - 519-369-9911

Holstein - 519-334-3132

Markdale - 519-986-3692

Osprey - 519-922-2333

Paisley - 519-353-7220

www.kidsandus.ca

Kids Street Nursery School - Port Elgin

519-389-9050

Kinhuron Integrated Day Nursery School

Co-op

519-396-4532

Kincardine

Le Jardin des decouvertes - Owen Sound

519-371-4411

Little Bloomers Child Care

519-506-2839 - Hanover

519-832-2400 - Port Elgin

Military Family Resource Centre - Meaford

519-538-1371 x6509

mfrc.meaford@gmail.com

www.cafconnection.ca/Meaford/Home.aspx

Nawash N’Shiime Day Care Centre

519-534-3909

Neyaashiinigmiing (Cape Croker)

OneList – Find and apply for child care

brucecountychildcare.ca

Queen of Hearts Nursery School

109 Balmy Beach Rd., Owen Sound

www.queenofheartsnurseryschool.com

Sandbox Daycare - Hanover

519-506-7263

Saugeen First Nation G’Shaw-da-Gawin

Day Care Centre

519-797-2419

gshawdagawin@bmts.com

www.saugeenfirstnation.ca

Tobermory Primary Place

519-596-2606

Unity House - Owen Sound

519-371-8686

Viola Jean’s Garden Daycare - Owen Sound

519-416-5633 or 519-371-2362


Wiarton Kids Den Day Care/Kids Club

School age Program

519-534-4434

Wiarton Nursery School

519-534-2121

Wooden Hill Child Care Centre (La Colline

De Bois) at Notre Dame School

519-376-6952

Owen Sound

YMCA Childcare

Arran Tara - 519-376-0484

Hanover - 519-364-4938

Kincardine - 519-396-9622

Owen Sound - 519-376-0484

Port Elgin - 519-832-6225

Ripley - 519-395-5570

ymcaowensound.on.ca

DIET/NUTRITION

EatRight Ontario

Ministry of Health Promotion and Sport

1-877-510-5102; www.eatrightontario.ca

Empowering Kitchen Cooking Classes

https://stucklesshealing.com/

Foodlink Grey Bruce

Find locally grown meat, fruit and produce

www.foodlinkgreybruce.com

Good Food Box


519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456



1-800-263-3456



Owen Sound


519-506-4348; www.hanoverfht.ca


1-800-567-2384, 519-371-4773


Ontario Student Nutrition Program Grey

Bruce

www.osnp.ca

EDUCATION

Academy of Learning - Owen Sound

1077 2nd Ave. E., Suite B (2nd floor)

519-371-6188 or www.academytraining.ca

Adult Learning Centres

Collingwood, Port Elgin, Markdale, Owen

Sound, Walkerton, Wiarton

www.adultlearningcentres.com

Bluewater District School Board

1-800-661-7509 or www.bwdsb.on.ca

Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board

519-364-5820 or www.bgcdsb.org

Conseil Scolaire Catholique Providence

(French Catholic School Board)

1-888-768-2219; www.cscprovidence.ca

Edgehill Country School, Durham

www.edgehillschool.org

Georgian Tutors

www.georgiantutors.com

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

JobsWork

Aimee Kim, Job Developer, akim@clkd.ca

519-396-9434 x223

Leads Employment Services

1051 2nd Ave. E Owen Sound

1-866-955-3237

www.leadsservices.com

LiveGreyBruce

www.livegreybruce.ca

VPI Employment Strategies (Walkerton)

519-881-4900 or 1-855-260-4900

jobswalkerton@vpi-inc.com

www.vpi-inc.com

YMCA Employment Services

1450 1st Ave. W., Suite 4A, Owen Sound

519-371-9222

employmentservices@ymcaowensound.on.ca

FAMILY SUPPORT

211 Ontario

Online database of services in your area

www.211ontario.ca

Aspire Youth Services Inc.

ryanmcleodplaytherapy@gmail.com

aspireyouth.ca; 416-417-7098

Big Brothers Big Sisters

Owen Sound - 519-376-4449

www.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/bbowensound


www.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/kincardine

Bruce Grey Child and Family Services

1-855-322-4453; www.bgcfs.ca

Bruce Grey Mentorship

504 10th St., Suite 2, Hanover

519-506-5065; www.brucegreymentorship.ca

Building Gender Diverse Communities

Karen Houle, 519-377-3171 x238

2spiritmentor@mwikwedong.com

https://rb.gy/3qmoe1

Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation

- Native Child Welfare - Cape Croker

519-534-3818; supervisor.ncw@gbtel.ca

www.nawash.ca

Counselling Bruce County

616 Market St., Port Elgin

519-266-3674; counsellingbrucecounty.com

EarlyON Child and Family Centres

Chesley, Hanover, Kincardine, Markdale,

Meaford, M’Wikwedong (Owen Sound), Owen

Sound (East Ridge), Port Elgin, Thornbury,

Wiarton

1-800-616-8116

Family Support Initiative

519-371-3642; greybruce.cmha.ca

Farmers’ Mental Health Initiative

farmerswellnessinitiative.ca

Frontier Therapy

www.frontiertherapy.ca

Grandparent Network

For grandparents raising grandchildren

Meets first Monday of month at 9:30 a.m.

Owen Sound

Call Mary Nuckowski at 519-371-2498

Grey Bruce Supervised Access Program

519-371-5991; pc-superacc@bmts.com

www.supervisedaccess.ca, Owen Sound

Kids Help Phone

1-800-668-6868; www.kidshelpphone.ca

Multiples in Bruce

http://multiplesinbrucecounty.webs.com

Nemesis Group Services

Owen Sound; 519-372-2425

www.nemesisgroupservices.com

Parent Help Line

1-888-603-9100

Parents for Children’s Mental Health

www.family.cmho.org

Penetangore Wellness

www.penetangorewellness.com

PFLAG Owen Sound

1-888-530-6777 x570

https://pflagcanada.ca/ontario/

owensoundon@pflagcanada.ca

Salvation Army

Hanover - 519-364-3450

Owen Sound - 519-371-0957

Port Elgin - 519-389-3942

Wiarton - 519-534-0353

Trans Lifeline

1-877-330-6366; translifeline.org

Victim Services Bruce Grey

Perth

Crisis: 1-866-376-9852; Admin: 1-888-577-3111

info@victim-services.com;

www.victim-services.com

Victim/Witness Assistance Program

1-866-259-4823 - Owen Sound

1-866-994-9904 - Walkerton

attorneygeneral@ontario.ca

http://bit.ly/ujKyeE

FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Beaver Valley Outreach (Thornbury)

519-599-2577; info@bvo.ca; www.bvo.ca

Bruce Children are Special Foundation

1-855-322-4453 ext 4133

Social Services

Grey County - 1-800-265-3119

www.grey.ca/health-social-services/

Owen Sound

Bruce County - 1-800-265-3005

www.brucecounty.on.ca/ontworks.php

Walkerton


RESOURCES

United Way of Bruce Grey

519-376-1560 or manager@unitedwaybg.com

www.unitedwayofbrucegrey.com

YMCA of Owen Sound and Grey/Bruce

519-376-0484 or ymcaowensound.on.ca

FOOD BANKS/HOUSING

Beaver Valley Outreach - Thornbury

519-599-2577, info@bvo.ca or www.bvo.ca

Durham District Food Bank

Monday and Friday, 9 a.m.-noon

Flesherton and Area Food Bank

Marian Doyle, 519-599-3576

Kincardine Ministerial Food Bank

519-396-2185 or circlek@bmts.com

Lion’s Head and District Food Bank

519-793-3860 or helen.rick@amtelecom.net

Markdale and District Food Bank

519-986-1432

Meaford Food Bank

519-538-4550

Paisley Food Bank

Immanuel Evangelical Mission Church

307 Balaclava St.; 519-353-5270 (Carol)

Salvation Army

Hanover - 519-364-3450

Owen Sound - 519-371-0957

Port Elgin - 519-389-3942

Tobermory Food Bank

519-596-1501

Walkerton and District Food Bank

519-881-0168

Wiarton Food Bank

519-534-0353

Habitat for Humanity Grey Bruce

1-866-771-6776 or habitatos@bmts.com

www.habitatgreybruce.com

Ontario Tenants Rights

ontariotenants@hotmail.com

www.ontariotenants.ca

Safe ‘n Sound Homelessness Initiative

519-470-7233; www.safensoundgreybruce.com

Subsidized housing

Bruce County - 1-800-265-3022

www.brucecounty.on.ca/socialhousing.php

Grey County - 376-5744

http://bit.ly/vVG1k0

HEALTH CARE

ActivEars Hearing Centres Inc.

Owen Sound, Hanover, Durham

226-784-3288

www.activears.com

Brockton and Area Family Health Team

1-866-507-2021; www.bafht.com

Canadian Mental Health Association

Grey-Bruce Branch

Admin - 519-371-3642; Crisis: 988

greybruce.cmha.ca

Collingwood General and Marine Hospital

705-445-2550; www.cgmh.on.ca

ConnexOntario Help Lines

Drug and alcohol - 1-800-565-8603

Gambling - 1-888-230-3505

Mental health - 1-866-531-2600

www.connexontario.ca

Grey Bruce Health Services (hospitals)

Lion’s Head - 519-793-3424

Markdale - 519-986-3040

Meaford - 519-538-1311

Owen Sound - 519-376-2121

Southampton - 797-3230

Wiarton - 534-1260

www.gbhs.on.ca

Grey Bruce Health Unit - Owen Sound

1-800-263-3456



Hanover and District Hospital

519-364-2340/info@hdhospital.ca

www.hdhospital.ca

Healthy Babies, Healthy Children

519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456



519-506-4348 or dford@hanoverfht.ca

www.hanoverfht.ca

Healthy Smiles Ontario

Dental for families making under $20,000/yr

Register through the health unit

Online: http://bit.ly/JAqJbY

Honouring Life Network

www.honouringlife.ca


1-800-567-2384 or 519-371-4773


Kids Help Phone (24 hours)

1-800-668-6868 or www.kidshelpphone.ca

Kincardine Family Health Team


Ripley - 519-395-2601

www.kincardinefht.ca

Mino Bimadsawin Health Centre

57 Mason Dr., Saugeen First Nation

519-797-3336

M’Wikwedong Native Cultural Resource

Centre - Owen Sound

1-866-202-2068 or admin@mwikwedong.com

www.mwikwedong.com

Owen Sound Crisis Pregnancy Centre

1-888-371-2004; oscpc@wightman.ca

Pediatric clinics

Hanover - 519-364-2340


Markdale - 519-986-3040

Owen Sound - 519-376-2121

Walkerton - 519-881-1220

Penetangore Wellness

www.penetangorewellness.com

Poison Control Centre

1-800-268-9017

Postpartum depression

Grey Bruce Health Unit - 1-800-263-3456

Keystone Child, Youth and Family Services -

1-800-567-2384

Ripley Physical Therapy and Wellness

519-395-HEAL; info@ripleyptandwellness.ca

https://ripleyptandwellness.ca/

Sensational Skills Occupational Therapy

226 Queen St., Kincardine; 519-270-KIDZ

ashleysimmonsot@gmail.com

South Bruce Grey Health Centre (hospitals)

Chesley - 519-363-2340


Durham - 519-369-2340

Walkerton - 519-881-1220

www.sbghc.on.ca

South East Grey Community Health Centre

55 Victoria St., Markdale

519-986-2222 or 1-855-519-2220

info@segchc.ca or www.segchc.ca

St. John Ambulance First Aid training

519-364-7004 or grey.bruce@on.sja.ca

Online: http://bit.ly/t3Ye8g

TeleHealth Ontario

1-866-797-0007

TVCC

519-3370-0777 or 1-866-590-8822

www.tvcc.on.ca

LIBRARIES

Blue Mountains Public Library/

L.E. Shore Memorial Library

519-599-3681 or thebluemountainslibrary.ca

Bruce County Public Library

opac.brucecounty.on.ca; 519-832-6935;

libraryinfo@brucecounty.on.ca

Cargill - 519-366-9990

Chesley - 519-363-2239


Lion’s Head - 519-793-3844

Lucknow - 519-528-3011

Mildmay - 519-367-2814

Paisley - 519-353-7225

Port Elgin - 519-832-2201

Ripley - 519-395-5919

Sauble Beach - 519-422-1283

Southampton - 519-797-3586

Tara - 519-934-2626

Teeswater - 519-392-6801

Tiverton - 519-368-5655

Tobermory - 519-596-2446

Walkerton - 519-881-3240

Wiarton - 519-534-2602

Collingwood Public Library

519-445-1571; www.collingwoodpubliclibrary.ca

Dundalk/Southgate Public Library

519-923-3248; http://southgate-library.com/


Grey Highlands Public Library

Flesherton - 519-924-2241

Kimberley - 519-599-6990

Walter Harris Memorial Library (Markdale) -

519-986-3436; greyhighlandspubliclibrary.com

Hanover Public Library

519-364-1420 or www.hanoverlibrary.ca

Meaford Public Library

519-538-1060

www.meaford.ca/meaford-library-home.html

Owen Sound and North Grey

Union Public Library

519-376-6623; www.owensound.library.on.ca

West Grey Public Library system

www.westgreylibrary.com

Durham (main) branch - 519-369-2107

Elmwood and area - 519-363-3321

Neustadt - 519-799-5830

Ayton/Normanby - 519-799-3242

MUSEUMS

Billy Bishop Heritage Museum - Owen Sound

519-371-0031 or www.billybishop.org

Bruce County Lighthouse Museums

Cabot (Lion’s) Head - 519-795-7780

Chantry Island (Southampton) - 866-318-8889


Point Clark - 519-395-2494

Bruce County Museum, Cultural Centre &

Archives - Southampton

519-797-2080 or www.brucemuseum.ca

Bruce Peninsula Visitors Centre

519-596-2233 or http://bit.ly/rQQFf6

Bruce Power Visitors’ Centre

519-361-7777; www.brucepower.com

Chesley Heritage & Woodworking Museum

519-363-9837

Craigleith Heritage Depot - Thornbury

519-599-3131

www.thebluemountains.ca/Craigleith-

Heritage-Depot.cfm

Grey Roots Museum & Archives

1-877-GREY ROOTS; www.greyroots.com

Meaford Museum

519-538-5974

www.visitmeaford.com/meaford-museum.html

Owen Sound Marine and Rail Museum

519-371-3333; www.marinerail.com

Paddy Walker Heritage Society - Kincardine

519-396-1850

www.walkerhousekincardine.com

South Grey Museum - Flesherton

519-924-2843 or museum@greyhighlands.ca

www.southgreymuseum.ca

St. Edmunds Township Museum - Tobermory

519-596-2479; http://bit.ly/vEdicK

Tobermory Maritime Association

519-596-2700; www.tobermorymaritime.ca

Treasure Chest Museum - Paisley

519-353-7176 or http://bit.ly/1PjTS1D

NEWCOMER SERVICES

Grey Bruce Settlement & Langauge Services

519-371-9222 or settlement@osgb.ymca.ca

ONLINE SUPPORT

www.211.ca

bouncebackontario.ca

www.cybertip.ca

LGBT YouthLine: www.youthline.ca

www.mentallyfit.ca

https://needhelpnow.ca

www.pathwaysawareness.org

www.protectchildren.ca

www.shelternet.ca

www.targetyouth.ca

www.thehealthline.ca

www.wesforyouthonline.ca

PLAYGROUPS

Grey Bruce Play

Greybruceplay@gmail.com

EarlyON Child and Family Centres

Chesley, Paisley, Kincardine, Port Elgin, and

Wiarton - 1-800-616-8116

Hanover, Markdale, Meaford, M’Wikwedong

(Owen Sound), Owen Sound (East Ridge), and

Thornbury - 1-866-483-7774

SPECIAL NEEDS

Autism Ontario Grey Bruce Chapter

226-787-0333 or marti@autismontario.com

http://bit.ly/tO6kam; Owen Sound

Autism Parent Support Group

Community Living Kincardine & District

519-396-9434 or www.clkd.ca

Bruce County Children’s Services Resource

Program

1-800-265-3005 or www.brucecounty.on.ca

Bruce Peninsula (Wiarton) Association

for Community Living

519-534-0553

Community Living Kincardine & District

519-396-9434; www.clkd.ca

Community Living Meaford

519-538-4165

Community Living Owen Sound

and District

519-371-9251 or communitylivingowensound.ca

Community Living Walkerton & District

519-881-3713 or www.clwalkerton.org

Georgian Riding Association for Challenged

Equestrians

519-372-2721; grace@log.on.ca

Hope Haven Therapeutic Riding Centre

519-986-1247; www.hopehavencentre.org


Owen Sound; 1-800-567-2384


Owen Sound & Area Special Olympics

owensound.sports@specialolympicsontario.ca

https://owensound.specialolympicsontario.ca

PRANCE Therapeutic Riding Centre

519-832-2522 or prance@bmts.com

Miramichi Farms, Hwy. 21 Port Elgin

Reading Rescue Ontario

519-794-4745 or soehner@bmts.com

www.readingrescueontario.ca

Holland Centre

South Grey Bruce Youth Literacy Council

519-364-0008 or info@sgbyouthliteracy.org

www.sgbyouthliteracy.org

Hanover

Special Therapy and Education

Program of Saugeen (STEPS)

519-797-1935

info@stepsahead.ca; www.stepsahead.ca

Southampton

TVCC

519-370-0777 or 1-866-590-8822

www.tvcc.on.ca

United Way of Bruce Grey

519-376-1560; unitedwaybg@bmts.com

www.unitedwayofbrucegrey.com/

Owen Sound

SPEECH/LANGUAGE

Bruce County Childcare Services

1-800-265-3005; www.brucecounty.on.ca

Walkerton

Closing the Gap Healthcare Group

Rehab Express Grey Bruce

1-866-990-9901 or www.closingthegap.ca

Owen Sound

South West Community Care Access Centre

In-Home Services

Owen Sound - 519-371-2112

Walkerton - 519-881-1181

www.sw.ccac-ont.ca

TVCC

519-370-0777 or 1-866-590-8822

www.tvcc.on.ca

VOICE for Hearing Impaired Children

www.voicefordeafkids.com

WISH PROGRAMS

Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada

1-800-267-9474

on@childrenswish.ca or www.childrenswish.ca

Make-A-Wish - Southwestern Ontario Chapter

519-471-4900 or www.makeawishswo.org

London, ON GBK


RECIPES

BREAKFAST MUFFINS!

MORNING GLORY MUFFINS

PREPARATION TIME: 10 MINUTES

COOKING TIME: 15 MINUTES

SERVINGS: 4

INGREDIENTS

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup brown sugar, packed

⅓ cup wheat germ, toasted

2 ½ tsp cinnamon

1 ½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp baking soda

⅔ cup milk

⅓ cup vegetable oil

2 eggs, beaten

1 tsp vanilla

2 cups apples, peeled and finely chopped

2 cups carrots, finely grated

½ cup each shredded coconut, raisins and chopped

pecans

Topping

1 tbsp sugar

½ tsp cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS

In medium bowl, mix together flour, sugar, wheat germ, cinnamon,

baking powder, salt and baking soda; set aside. In large bowl, whisk

together milk, oil, eggs and vanilla. Stir in apples, carrots, coconut,

raisins and pecans. Stir in dry ingredients just until combined; do not

over-mix (batter will be thick).

Spoon batter into lightly greased or paper-lined muffin cups. Sprinkle

with cinnamon sugar topping. Bake at 400 F for 20 to 22 minutes or

until firm to the touch. Cool pan on wire rack for five minutes. Remove

from pan, serve warm or cold.

Topping: In small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over tops of

muffins before baking.

.

FRENCH TOAST MUFFINS

INGREDIENTS

8 cups cinnamon-raisin bread, cubed

2 apples, peeled and coarsely chopped

5 eggs

1 cup milk

1 cup maple syrup

INSTRUCTIONS

In large bowl, combine bread cubes and apples; set aside. In medium

bowl, whisk eggs, milk and 1/4 cup of the maple syrup. Pour egg

mixture over bread and gently combine.

Grease 12-cup muffin pan and spoon 1/2 cup of the bread mixture

into each muffin cup. Bake at 350 F for 20 to 25 minutes or until

set and knife inserted in the centre comes out clean. Let cool in pan

on wire rack for five minutes. Turn muffins out and spoon remaining

maple syrup over muffins.

Tip: place cooled breakfast muffins in freezer bag and freeze up to

three months. To reheat, just pop in the microwave for 30 seconds.

GBK

Recipes courtesy Foodland Ontario


STUDENT

ENGAGEMENT

Grades

9-12

Grades

6-8

Grades

2-5

Provide events,

competitions, and

presentations to explore

becoming an apprentice

with OYAP.

Help to discover diverse

skilled trades careers

through fairs and

interactive showcases.

Build problem-solving

skills with hands-on

activities like races and

car projects.

CHRISTIAN ENVIRONMENT IS AN

INTENTIONAL INTEGRATION OF

FAITH AND ACTIVITY

Grades

K-1

JOIN US

this

summer!

Introduce basic trade

concepts through creative,

age-appropriate projects.

oyap@bwdsb.on.ca

ADVERTISE IN THE ONLY MAGAZINE FOR

LOCAL PARENTS IN GREY/BRUCE!

Contact Amy - amy@greybrucekids.com

BIBLE BASED

TRAINED, QUALIFIED STAFF

POSITIVE CHRISTIAN ROLE MODELS

SKILL BASED ACTIVITIES!

(ARCHERY, EQUESTRIAN, MOUNTAIN BIKING,

CRAFTS, CANOEING, KAYAKING, EXPLORING,

SWIMMING AND SO MUCH MORE)

NON COMPETITIVE ATMOSPHERE

FUN, SAFE STRUCTURED ENVIRONMENT

AGES 6 - 16

Loacted along

the Saugeen River,

Bruce County

TEL (519) 881.2448

director@campcherith.ca

www.campcherith.ca


Greetings From!

CAMP PRESQU’ILE

Camp Presqu’ile

339639 Presqu’ile Rd.

Owen Sound, Ont

Dear Mom and Dad,

I'm having the best time at camp this

summer! I've made tons of new friends and

tried so many cool activities. Today I did

Canoeing, Kayaking and went on the

Water Trampoline in Georgian bay! I made

you something in Arts and Crafts, shot a

bullseye and I learned how to build a fire!

Tonight we are having a campfire where

we need to sing a song and do a skit with

our cabin.

I miss you but can I come for two weeks

next summer?!

Love,

Megan

P.S The food is awesome!

To :

Mom and Dad!

456 Sunshine Court

Port Elgin, Ont

N0H 2C1

Register today

for summer

2025!

rotaryymcacamppresquile

Grey-Bruce Kids Spring 2025

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