Gta Parent - Toronto Area Parenting and Community Information

#campday - Help Send a Kid to Camp by Supporting Tim Horton's Camp Day

2013-06-05T11:20:00.000-05:00

Tim Horton's Camp Day

WHERE: Tim Horton's Locations & Online
WHEN: Wednesday, June 05, 2013
TIME: All Day

Picked my son up for lunch today and we headed to Tim's to support children going to camp....I could feel the energy as we drove up to Tim Horton's. Local teens were motioning us to get our car washed - a real steal at only $5.00 and all proceeds to go sending children in need to summer camp across Canada (and even in the United States). My son got to pop a balloon and won a free lemonade.

I was thrilled to see my son get all excited by watching these teens get our car shiny clean and more importantly, give of their time with great enthusiasm.

All donations, along with entire coffee proceeds will help send even more kids to camp
today because today is Tim Hortons Camp Day! Camp Day is the one day each year when every penny from coffee sales at Tim Hortons Restaurants is donated to the Tim Horton Children's Foundation.

On Camp Day, when guests buy a coffee and participate in various fundraising activities, they will help send more than 14,000 kids on the camping adventure of a lifetime. Campers aged nine to 12 years attend a 10-day summer camp session or a seven-day winter camp session, at one of the Foundation's six camps in Canada and the United States. Children are selected by Tim Hortons Restaurant Owners who work closely with local youth organizations and schools to identify kids who would most benefit from an experience at camp.
During their time at camp, kids participate in a wide range of first-class programs and activities designed to build self-esteem and leadership skills. The Foundation is committed to providing an enriched and memorable experience for campers, giving them confidence in their abilities, pride in their accomplishments and a more positive view of the world and their place in it.

Can't make it to Tim's?
Then donate online via paypal or credit card. You will feel good about yourself - I promise. I saw local police social media hero; Tim Burrows who is a police officer get his car washed while we were heading home and I could tell how exited he was to help. So I promise it will make you feel good too.

About the Tim Horton Children's Foundation
The Tim Horton Children's Foundation is a non-profit charitable organization founded in 1974. Funding for the Foundation comes from Tim Hortons Camp Day, fundraising activities, special events, year-round public donations collected through counter and drive-thru coin boxes and other donations. Since 1975 more than 150,000 children have attended a Foundation camp at no cost to them or their families. For more information about the Tim Horton Children's Foundation please visit thcf.com.

Got the candles ready? Our Earth Hour Countdown!

2013-03-23T19:21:00.001-05:00

So my youngest son insisted we eat outside tonight, a cold March night with warm intentions.... "that's what we do Mommy". True in July! But it is fitting to bbq and eat outside on the eve of Earth Hour. It seems right. We have our candles ready and are getting revved up with some lblues tunes courtesy of 91.1 FM before we turn the lights off and the candles on. Will we go back outside and look for stars next?

March Break is here!

2013-03-08T17:01:00.003-06:00

Hey GTA, the snow is leaving us and the days will start getting longer and longer. There's so much to do with the family while the Groundhog's prediction of early spring unfolds. Just before spring springs for real, we get to do the March Break

Check out some useful Links below for family fun - have a safe and healthy March Break.

http://ebw.evergreen.ca/whats-on/kids-families/camps

http://www.thestop.org/after-school-program-summer-camp

http://www.farmersmarketsontario.com/markets.cfm

Urban Retreat & Conference for Professional and Entrepreneurial Women Featuring Danielle LaPorte

2013-02-22T09:03:00.000-06:00

April 14th & April 15th at the Hyatt King Street join us for THE Entrepreneurial Conference of the Year!

We are so excited to announce our 3rd Annual Go For It Conference and Urban Retreat for professional women and entrepreneurs.

If you are stuck, confused or want to get further ahead with your business than this is the conference attend. We will give you the tools and the plan to succeed - guaranteed.

We are also excited to announce new this year that we also have an urban retreat on the Sunday so that you can relax, unwind and learn how to take care of yourself from both a personal and business standpoint. Connect, network, learn, achieve and have fun. We have parties, pampering business coaching, amazing presentations and keynotes that will have you inspired and focused for greater success.

Go For It Conference &Urban Retreat at a Glance

Online event registration for #WIBN Go For It Urban Retreat and Conference powered by Eventbrite

Free VIP Canadian AutoShow Breakfast with Chevrolet Canada - Register Now Tickets Limited... Spouses Welcome!

2013-02-07T12:23:00.000-06:00

On February 15, Chevrolet Canada is inviting you to a breakfast and panel discussion at the Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto. The panel of experts will share insights on how bloggers and organizations can work with global brands like Chevrolet to build brand awareness, strengthen their business, and get more out of their everyday life by learning about new emerging technology trends.

If you are interested in learning how partnering with brands can help you and your business, don’t miss out on this opportunity.

Chevrolet Breakfast Panel and Questions and Answer Period

Panelists:

Anjum Choudhry, Founder at MasalaMommas.com

Topic:

How to build your brand
How engaging with companies can build your bottom line

About Anjum Choudhry:

Featured by Globe and Mail, CBC National, OMNI Television, masalamommas.com is an international magazine covering stories about juggling parenting in a cultural context, business, events, food, apps and exclusive columns on working moms, life advice, pushing the boundaries and opening up about taboo subjects in the South Asian community.

Sara LeBlanc, Global Program Lead, Infotainment, General Motors Company

Topic:

Customer technology trends and how technology can help busy people with everyday life

About Sara LeBlanc:

Sara is responsible for launching apps and radio features globally. She is able to balance her busy work life with her equally busy home life while raising 3 children. She is constantly learning about new technologies and helping make people’s lives easier

Adria MacKenzie, Corporate Communications Manager,
General Motors of Canada

Topic:

How Chevrolet works with bloggers and partner organizations

How working with brands can help improve your business

About Adria MacKenzie
Adria has developed Chevrolet’s relationships with non automotive media expanding to include all social channels. She is very active in Chevrolet’s strategic social outreach and continues to foster new relationships and opportunities that help both the outlets we work with as well as Chevrolet Canada.

When:Friday February 15, 2013
7:45 – 8:45am – Registration
8:00 – 9:00am – Breakfast
9:00 – 10:00am – Discussion
10:15am – Adjourn

What’s included with this Free Event:

In addition to the breakfast, Chevrolet Canada is pleased to offer FREE access to the Autoshow which opens to the public at noon. Parking will also be looked after for attendees. Spouses/partners welcome to accompany attendee.

Hashtag for event: #ChevyCIAS

Bob Marley Day in the City of Toronto

2013-02-06T16:53:00.000-06:00

Photo Credit Source: CP24

I am not a fan of Rob Ford. However, today is Bob Marley Day thanks to Rob Ford so I will thank him for bringing back my fine Bob memories back (see below).

From the mouth of Rob Ford: "As a world ambassador of reggae music, Bob Marley was seen as the first international superstar to emerge from the developing world. The commanding and unique sound of his music captivated people of all cultures, broke music barriers and helped to introduce reggae music to the world.

To this day, his music continues to be loved by many and is instantly recognized around the world.

Inspired by his many travels, Bob Marley became a champion for human rights and an international ambassador for peace through his music. Music was his vessel to speak out against oppression, poverty, slavery and apartheid and earned him a Peace Medal of the Third World from the United Nations and the Order of Merit from his native country of Jamaica.

After being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, Bob Marley’s influence on the musical and cultural scene was solidified. The impact his humanitarian efforts had throughout the world highlighted the direct relationship between music and advocating for the greater good of mankind. "

From Canadian Press:

Following the reading of the Bob Marley Day proclamation Wednesday morning, eight city residents were presented with humanitarian awards.

Toronto-born rapper Aubrey Drake Graham was among the recipients, however he was not in attendance at the ceremony.

(Credit: Charles Sykes / Invision)

Rowan Barrett, a former Olympic basketball player and current executive vice-president of Canada Basketball, won the Bob Marley award for encouraging diversity in sports.

"Our organization has been working tirelessly to open the doors for all Canadians," Barrett told the Canadian Press. "We now have athletes from India, from Eastern Europe and from South America over a range of age groups."

Other award winners included Pamela Appelt, Scott Crowley, Ben Hum, Manuel Rodriguez, Marlon Reid and Pradeep Sood.

Live music was provided by Barrett Brackin and the Band.

My love affair with Bob (sorry I am not talking about my husband Bob....)

As a long time fan of Bob Marley I can remember my first listen. I was a "Bob" virgin until one fateful night in the basement of my best friend's boyfriend. I was seventeen. "One Love" came on and about 12 of us gathered to dance in a group huddle. I was hooked. I went out and bought my first tape and would listen to it every day on my way to work (likely with my yellow walkman). After that I was completely smitten with Bob. As the years went on I met my husband and we spent many nights on our patio dancing to his melodies. Recently we watch his documentary and I continue to be fascinated and impressed by the mark his life made on others. Bob if you are listening up in heaven... thanks for making such awesome music for generations of us to love (including my two children who have discovered you way before I did!).

One love, One heart

Let's get together and feel all right

Hear the children crying (One Love)

Hear the children crying (One Heart)

Sayin' give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel all right

Sayin' let's get together and feel all right

Let them all pass all their dirty remarks (One Love)

There is one question I'd really love to ask (One Heart)

Is there a place for the hopeless sinner

Who has hurt all mankind just to save his own?

Believe me

One Love, One Heart

Let's get together and feel all right

As it was in the beginning (One Love)

So shall it be in the end (One Heart)

Give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel all right

One more thing

Let's get together to fight this Holy Armageddon (One Love)

So when the Man comes there will be no no doom (One Song)

Have pity on those whose chances grove thinner

There ain't no hiding place from the Father of Creation

Sayin' One Love, One Heart

Let's get together and feel all right

I'm pleading to mankind (One Love)

Oh Lord (One Heart)

Give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel all right

Let's get together and feel all right

Year of the Snake: GTA Parent Celebrates Chinese New Year

2013-02-04T16:15:00.001-06:00

The Chinese Lunar New Year (Sunday, February 10 & 11th, 2013) is looming upon us and neighborhoods across the GTA are preparing to ring in the Year of the Snake. Awareness outside of the Chinese community of this much anticipated annual cultural event has grown in recent years and people from all walks of life are encouraged to get into the spirit and embrace the opportunities that a brand new year promises.

Year of the Snake

This year celebrates the snake, a symbol of steady progress and attention to detail. Focus and discipline are keys to success this year. The Snake is the sixth sign of the Chinese Zodiac, which consists of 12 Animal Signs. It is the enigmatic, intuitive, introspective, refined and collected of the Animals Signs. Ancient Chinese wisdom says a Snake in the house is a good omen because it means that your family will not starve.
Perhaps our most favourite of Lunar New Year traditions is Jiao Zi- Dumplings! These little packets of goodness are tops with all members of the family and really kick off the year in fresh, yet comforting manner. Check out my best recipe for dumplings, these can be served with a soy / vinegar sauce and should be poached, steamed or fried as 'pot-stickers'.

Gōng Xi Fā Cái!

PORK DUMPLINGS

Ingredients

Wraps
450g/1lb/4 cups plain (all purpose) flour
about 450ml/ 2 cups water
or use ready made dumpling skins

Filling
450g / 1lb Chinese leaves or white cabbage
450g / 1lb minced ground pork
1 tbsp finely-chopped spring spring onions (scallions)
1 tsp finely-chopped fresh ginger
2 tsp salt
1 tsp light brown sugar
2 tbsp your favourite soy sauce
1 tbsp Chinese ice wine or dry sherry
2 tsp sesame oil

Dipping Sauce
2 tbsp red chilli oil
1 tbsp light soy sauce
1 tsp finely-chopped garlic
1 tbsp finely-chopped spring onions (scallions)
- combine all ingredients into a small bowl, serve with finished dumplings

Steps

Sift flour into a bowl, mix with water, mix into firm dough. Knead until smooth and soft, cover with a damp cloth and set aside for 25-30 mins.
For the filling, blanch the cabbage leaves until soft. Drain and finely chop. mix the cabbage with remaining ingredients.
Lightly dust a work surface with the flour knead and roll the dough into a long 'sausage' about 2.5 cm / 1inch in diameter. cut the sausage into about 80-90 small pieces and flatten each one with the palm of your hand.
Using the rolling pin, roll out each piece into a thin pancake about 6cm/2.5 inch in diameter.
Place about 1.5 tbsp of the filling in the centre of each pancake and fold into a half moon shaped pouch.
Pinch the edges firmly so that the dumpling is tightly sealed.

Cooking

Shallow Frying: heat 3 tbsp of oil in a work or fry pan, place the dumplings in rows in the oil and fry over medium heat for several minutes.
Steaming: place dumplings on a bed of lettuce leaves on the rack of a steamer and steam for 10-2 minutes on high heat.
Poaching: Cook the dumplings in salted boiling water for 2 minutes , remove from heat and leave the dumplings in the water for about 15 mins.

Enjoy.

Looking for some fun activities to celebrate the Chinese New Year? Check out The Legend of China: Chinese New Year Carnival playing at the Toronto Centre for Performing Arts.

About Bob:
Bob Eats is a father of two and well rounded food enthusiast who is progressing through culinary training and pursuing his love of all things food. Bob has traveled near and far around our planet to discover tastes and techniques that enhance the overall food experience. Favourites from the Far East, Pacific Rim, Indian sub-continent, Classical European and The Americas all come alive in and around Bob's hometown of Toronto.

Bob likes to share the results of the cultural cuisine collisions that occur in restaurants, homes, shops and cantinas of our communities.

Connect with Bob at @bobeeats on Twitter.

How YOU can help save a life this Family Day Weekend

2013-02-02T14:55:00.003-06:00

Sounds like a pretty bold statement, doesn’t it?

The good news is… it is absolutely true.

On Sunday, Feb. 17 and Monday, Feb. 18, hundreds of people will be heading to Yonge-Dundas Square for Canada’s largest urban polar bear dip. Part of the national series of polar bear dips which raises money for SickKids and pediatric cancer research initiatives, the Sears Great Canadian Chill will also be bringing a complete winter family festival to the heart of the city.

As a parent, the most important thing we could ever hope for is the health of our children physically, mentally and emotionally. We care for them, love them and nurture them in hopes that they will have the opportunity to make their every wish come true. The incredible work being done at SickKids gives this gift to thousands of the bravest kids you have ever met, ringing true to the words “Anything You Want” sung in their new “Together We Will” campaign (Warning: This will leave you teary-eyed).

Besides the plunge in a custom-built Chill pool (there will even be hot-tubs to warm you right up), look out for plenty of activities on Monday for the whole family including face painting, family photos, live entertainment, contests, and even a fastest snowball competition for the kid in all of us!

Pre-registration for the Chill also includes free breakfast and a pass to take part in all of the above activities for one family registration fee of $40 (family of up to 5 people). You can sign up online at www.theChill.ca and learn more about how to join the fight to Stop Kids Cancer Cold!

On February 17th and 18th, by celebrating Family Day together at the Sears Great Canadian Chill, you’re giving Canadian families the support to keep fighting for what we all want: a healthy, happy family.

For more information, visit www.thechill.ca

Winter Survival Brings Family Connection

2013-01-15T10:16:00.003-06:00

Ah, January. The most dreaded month of the year for most. The post-holiday blues (and bills). Winter has set in and spring seems a long way away. The days still feel very short. What can you do to bring back some magic to you and your family life?

I read an MSN article awhile ago that got me inspired and has stuck with me http://lifestyle.ca.msn.com/family-parenting/family-fun-guide/50-ways-to-stay-bonded-with-your-kids-1#image=2. It’s about simple things to do in daily life to stay bonded, and as we are all drifting along with the snow (or lack thereof!) in January, it seemed a good time to reread that article, and highlight some of my top picks to see me through this winter.

1) Kisses, hugs, eye contact. They may seem like no-brainers, but ask yourself how many kisses and hugs were exchanged yesterday. I bet there is room for more. It's amazing how great a hug or kiss can make you feel - don't take that for granted. Eye contact really grabbed me, especially when most of us have our eyes on the screen of whatever device these days! I bet those devices are getting more eye contact than your loved ones! Eye contact is a very important part of the animal world – just look at animals who don’t have vocal cords and you will see. So try out some communication without words, but using your bodies instead.

2) Unplugging. This relates to the above. We are all so busy with whatever plugs us in, try having dedicated time to unplug yourself from technology. Some friends and I came up with a grand new years plan with our kids to have it totally technology free. Candles instead of electricity, cooking over a fire, music as played and sung by us, board games vs. computer games... well, it didn’t pan out that way the whole night, but we managed to find a nice balance in the middle. It’s amazing what you will hear and see when you unplug.

3) Gaming and puzzling. I have found over the years playing board games to be a great way to pass time and connect with my kids and friends. Recently puzzles were reintroduced to our life, and I am really glad they were! Both allow opportunity for eye contact, joking and chatting, team work, and fun. I am not against video gaming either, in fact “Just Dance” is one of my favourite activities with my kids and friends. Exercise and laughter are a great way to boost endorphins and kick those winter blues!

4) Getting out. Sometimes all the inside time can leave you feeling a bit like you are trapped in that hotel in the Shining. That means it’s time to get out! Whether it’s for a walk around your neighborhood to see what’s new, or a trip to a park or conservation area, exploring can make you feel as fresh as if you just had a shower for your soul. A couple of weekends ago, and friend and I took our kids to Claireville Conservation area. We explored a path we hadn’t been down before, and we were all touched by the beauty of the world around us: Seeing the water rippling under the layer of ice on the river, seeing the hard work of the busy beavers, tracking the trail of a rabbit and wondering what it was running from, and seeing a heard of white tailed deer cross the path right in front of us – those are just a few of the highlights from a magical day. Nor do you have to rely on walking only as a means to get out – skating, skiing, and snowshoeing are just a few alternate means of transport in the winter months, and don’t have to cost a lot to do. And if there is enough snow - sledding is always a hoot for all ages! Maybe your family isn’t the outdoors type? Well, a trip to a gallery or museum is always a fun way to spend a day, and it’s worth checking out what programs are going on because it’s pretty amazing these days the offers for family and kids you will find. And if all else fails, getting out to a friend’s house may also cure what ails – just a change of scene and adding fresh faces can invigorate.

5) Working together. This can cover all kinds of ‘work’ – whether it’s turning up the music and doing housework together, or working on a project together (such as something for the house or an artsy project), or working side by side as you finish up that report you need to get done for work tomorrow and your child(ren) work on their homework, doing things together always makes it more pleasant, and even fun.

6) Read together. I recently rediscovered the virtues of reading aloud together. My boys are 13 and 10, and well beyond the stage of NEEDING someone to read to them. Note the NEED. By happenstance, I wanted to share with them something I was reading, so read a paragraph out of the book. They didn’t want me to stop, and it has since developed into a routine. There are great opportunities here – for drama and voices and much giggling, and also to share things that are meaningful to everyone. It gives great insight into a person, to know what they love to read, or hear what has impacted them. So whether you are picking the book/passage/poem/play, or your child is, it’s a great opportunity to share an important part of yourself with someone else. And depending on the age of your child(ren), you can also start your own bookclub with them. It is also insightful to read the same book, and share what you liked/didn’t like, favourite parts/characters/story lines, and so on. And simply, nothing beats being curled up with boys and dogs on a cold winter night in bed, all of us lost in our own book world, but together and close and connected.

7) Leave notes. In today’s tech world, the art of writing a letter I fear is dying. With all the slang thanks to shortening of words for easy texting, and replacing actual emotion with ‘emoticons’, I wonder what is going to happen to language in the future. Why not help revive it with little handwritten notes or letters to each other? Use the house mailbox or create indoors ones for each other. C’mon, nothing beats a handwritten letter in mailbox with your name on it, does it?

8) Share memories and pictures. Kids love hearing stories. Nothing says those stories have to be made up by someone else. Tell them about your adventures as a child. Tell them about when you first knew you were pregnant with them. Tell them about your hopes for the future. Tell them about what you thought your future would be like when you were a child. Tell them about your favourite teacher. Tell them about your best friend when you were 5. Tell them about your great-grandma raising 8 kids on a farm. About your great-great uncle playing at Carnagie Hall. Kids will eat this stuff up! And even better when you have pictures to go along with the stories. It’s a treasured memory of mine – sleepovers with my grandma when she would pull out old pictures and tell stories of growing up. My son is going to high school next year, so was really keen to see my old yearbooks, and hear stories from my own days gone by. We all love feeling connected to a story, so share it with each other! The kids can do this too – what is their favourite memory so far? Their biggest adventure? The scariest moment? What do they remember best about that best friend that moved away? Go through an old album with them – what are their favourite pictures? Do they remember the great aunt who would pinch their cheeks? And so on... lots of room for fun and learning about each other.

These are just a few of my personal favourites that make me glad I am not hibernating this winter. Staying connected to family and friends and having fun while you are doing so really is easy, opportunities abound everyday! So seize them, and it will be spring before you know it! Happy 2013!

Blogged by:

Kristine is constantly trying to keep up to her 2 active boys - a tween and a teen. They share a love of the outdoors, travel and adventure; art, music and literature; friends, food and fun; and most of all, their two dogs.

An artist at heart, Kristine started her career path pursuing a Fine Arts degree. Sidetracked from that road, she ended up working in the field of Engineering and has spent her working years balancing two full time jobs - being a mom and a professional.

Although "spare time" may be sparse, Kristine enjoys time with her family and friends, as well as satisfying a severe case of wanderlust whenever possible. Writing has always been an interest, both as a reader and writer.

GTA Parent Weekly Scoop: School Board Strike Dates and Toronto reacts to Princess Kate Pregnancy Tragedy

2012-12-09T15:14:00.000-06:00

Toronto's sick - Sick over the REAL Tragedy that has Struck Princess Kate's Pregnancy

Last week was a fun week for news. This week.... not so much. It started out promising for sure - news hit that Princess Kate was pregnant and I was very excited. News stations across Toronto were abuzz with excitement. I admit to be caught up in the excitement too. I enjoyed the 30 page spread in Maclean's magazine this week celebrating the new royal baby bump. However, things really turned for the worse when suicide overshadowed the news of the pregnancy. Seems an Australian DJ Duo thought it would be funny (rather grade two humour) to call up the hospital Kate was staying at ( for treatment of severe morning sickness). The DJ's fooled the nurse "on air" into giving out information about the status of Kate's health.

It is hard enough being pregnant and sick, let alone pregnant and sick under the watchful eye of the world's public. Then to know your pregnancy led to the tragic death of a nurse. How upsetting would that be? These DJ's have to live with themselves after what they did. I am sure Kate and William are also dealing with some serious stress around all of this. It just makes me feel sick to think that such a lovely event has to turned so awful!

Now on to other sick news.....

Ontario School Boards Possible Strike Timeline

Photo Credit: Fred Chartrand, The Canada Press

Things didn't get much better later in the week. Seems school boards are likely to strike after weeks of speculation..... Get ready for it!

After I finally stopped reading Princess Kate stuff I finally got to work looking for some information on the school strike. After doing some digging I found a good source for helpful information. Here is a list of Ontario elementary school board strikes timelines courtesy of
of The Globe and Mail :

Date of Possible Strike Walks Outs:

Avon Maitland (Monday, Dec. 10)

Keewatin-Patricia (Tuesday, Dec. 11)

Niagara (Tuesday, Dec. 11)

Ottawa Carleton (Wednesday, Dec. 12)

Hastings and Prince Edward (Wednesday, Dec. 12)

Lakehead (Wednesday, Dec. 12)

Boards where a walkout is possible with 72 hours notice (already in a legal strike position):

Lambton Kent

Kawartha Pine Ridge

Rainy River

Renfrew

Simcoe

Thames Valley

Trillium Lakelands

Upper Grand

Bluewater

Hamilton-Wentworth

York

Boards where a walkout is possible after Dec. 10:

Durham

Greater Essex

Peel

Rainbow

Superior-Greenstone

Toronto

Boards where a walkout is possible on or after Dec. 13:

Halton

Limestone

Near North

Upper Canada

Dec. 14:

Grand Erie

Dec. 17:

Algoma

Waterloo

Get two Women's Business Memberships for Entrepreneurs for the Price of One! Sale Ends Today!

2012-12-07T11:30:00.001-06:00

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This Week in Toronto / GTA Parent: Embarrassing Bieber, Rob Ford Kicked Out, Argos Win Grey Cup and Movember comes to an end.

2012-12-01T20:15:00.000-06:00

Grey Cup Celebrations! Congrats Argos!

What a week for exciting Toronto news. Sunday my family and I spent the day in downtown Toronto where we enjoyed the Telus Street Festival taking place for the 100th Grey Cup Celebrations. My husband even got the chance to throw the football around. Unfortunately, I didn't capture him catching the ball but I can tell you that he did catch it on first try. It just didn't make it on film, try as we may, we just could not recreate this bliss. The fun continued as my boys got to go inside a real army tank and we also got a lot of free chips for our evening Grey Cup Party at home. The best of all ... Argos won! Woo whoo!

The week continued to get spicier then our Grey Cup chicken wings

Rob Ford - Kicked out of Office:

The week was going along merrily when I get an email from a friend of mine that Rob Ford had been kicked out of office. I was shocked. I have often thought about writing about Rob Ford on Gta Parent, but not about what you would expect.... Believe me there is no lack of content: train wreck public speaking skills, his cut backs, his love of foodball and his general snarky attitude are all very pen to paper worthy. But what I do find shocking enough to write about is how people love to make fun of the way he looks and his weight. I find it very sad that we rip apart someone because of their personal appearance. Sure, he is not exactly sexy but should his weight be something we make fun of him for? Seems rather juvenile to me. Either way - jokes continue and there is lots to talk about with his departure and whether we will see him come back. Will he appeal his dismissal? Or run again in a by-election? Guess we will just have to wait and find out. It will make for some really interesting news.

Embarrassing Bieber - Ohh Justin Bieber didn't your mama tell you how to dress?

There was lots of news about Bieber this week - the fact that he played the Grey Cup (and didn't seem the right fit for the big burly football fans) and also his honour of receiving Diamond Jubilee Medal. People everywhere were perplexed to know why someone forgot to tell him to pack a suit. I don't know what was more shocking - his backwards ball cap or his 90's overalls. It was like watching a train wreck. As a mom of two boys I am blessed with the fact that at this stage in the game they will wear whatever I tell them to. I never have to argue about what they wear. I do think that as they get older and exhibit their lack of teenage sense dressing like a twit will be cool. This will certainly age me. Please boys don't be a Bieber. It would kill your mother.

Toronto Man Arrested for Twitter Stalking

Toronto resident, Greg E. Elliott was arrested after allegedly engaging in months of Twitter harassment in Toronto this week. A well known toronto graffiti artist. Greg was coined a "Twitter troll" to some. Sad to hear this happened and all I can hope is that we all think twice about our online behaviour and where it can lead! Similar stupidity occurred on Twitter again this week when some high school girls in Brampton who took to Twitter to bash their teacher only to get in major trouble for it. Remember people - if you can't say it to their face then perhaps it shouldn't be said at all... Just a thought.

A man who needs no introduction as his name is on his hat.

Women take back their men - Movember comes to an end. Mass facial hair shaved off across the GTA.

In celebration of Movember and the $200 my husband raised we enjoyed the last of his facial hair with a spanish celebration courtesy of my lovely friends John and Julie. Wine flowed and my husband showed charm, wit and well.... really bad facial hair.

He created a full and conditioned moustache after a month of painstaking care. However the end of this week saw the end to the creepy stash until November 2013.

I am really proud of his perseverance and I know how important it is to him to raise funds for this really crappy disease.

That being said I am doing the happy dance now that he looks less like Tom Hanks and more like the husband I know and love. The video below goes to show you how far the men of Movember have come and the distance we put between ourselves and these men.

The Grey Cup is Here! Family fun celebrations on Sunday, Nov. 25

2012-11-25T11:00:00.002-06:00

My husband is out of our front porch yelling "ARRRRRGOOOOOOOS!"

So we know that this Sunday we need to make our weekly new horizons adventure one that involves some grey cup fun to celebrate the Argos success this year and also the 100th year of the Grey Cup.

There are many festivities taking place even if you don't have Grey Cup tickets. Still, if you want just stay inside, then run to the super mart and buy some chicken wings and ribs. Then just flick the switch on your TV and watch the GREY CUP!

Here are some some activity ideas:

Telus Street Festival
Scotiabank Fan Zone
Grey Cup Fan March
Enjoy foods that will later give you heartburn (don't forget the tums)
Have a Grey Cup Party (we are having one with our kids)

For ideas, maps and more visit the 100th Year of Grey Cup Festival Website.

Five tips for making Magnificent Holiday Memories through Video courtesy of Kidzview

2012-11-18T12:23:00.000-06:00

Did you ever notice how children love to see themselves on video? They are excited to show off what they know and express their perspectives on life - live on camera! Families love seeing video as it allows a glimpse into our children's active and often hilarious lives.

To celebrate capturing your video moments Kidzview developed a list of:

**Five tips for making magnificent holiday memories through video:**

Make sure you have proper lighting and sound quality when attempting to take videos.
Keep videos short and sweet as they are easier to edit and keep our attention.
Don't worry if there are mistakes in your videos - you can edit out unwanted footage.
No time? Focus on taking videos at annual events so that you can chronicle your children's changes over the years.
Sending your holiday greetings digitally this year? Consider capturing your children in a professional video!

Kidzview can help you capture your child's thoughts and dreams through video. Through masterful interview techniques Kidzview allows your child to express themselves on topics that are current, comical and close to their hearts. Rather than freezing your child in an unnatural photo pose, we follow his or her lead.

By capturing children’s personalities, dynamic expressions and their magical voices they create priceless memories. For years to come you will be able to easily access your child’s most insightful, funniest and surprising thoughts. Kidzview is able to do it in a way that allows you to control how you want to watch it.

Kidzview Video Package Features include:

A mom is in charge.... with over 20 years experience producing major TV show productions including CBC's popular TV series Spilled Milk
Your choice of USB or DVD filled with various playable options of your child's interview
Customize for holiday greetings and keepsakes
Prices competitive with existing photo services, but much value added
Well crafted questions using the support techniques of teachers, principals and child psychologists
High production value using high quality equipment, set design and editing.
Beautifully packaged product ready to keep forever, or give away as a special gift for any family member.
We shoot in the schools for a reduced price.
Kidzview also interviews children every Saturday at the centrally located beautiful urban park Brickworks between the hours of 10 am and 3 pm. Call to book an appointment for your child's interview.

For more information please call
Sharone at 647-887-0238 or visit Kidzview.ca

Stepping out on the Town: Sheeham and Lotus bring toe tapping old time Jazz, Blues and Fiddle for Fashionable Night of Fancy Fun!

2012-11-16T16:06:00.000-06:00

I am over the top excited to go and see this jazzy performance - as a huge lover of jazz and blues, an evening out to watch Sheesham and Lotus perform will be a dream come true! My husband and myself just recently came back from a trip to New Orleans where music fills the air and the atmosphere is electric. We have always been a huge fans of live music - there is something so special and intimate about seeing a band perform live right in front of you. You get an appreciation for the band in a new way, and listening to a track on i-tunes just doesn't cut it! Excitement and fun come from being in the crowd while you collectively sway to the music. I will be there - you can count on me cutting the rug!

Details:

Sheeham and Lotus bring a night of live music.... homemade instruments and all!

From December 28, 2012 - December 29, 2012

Location:

Toronto Centre of the Arts

5040 Yonge Street, Toronto ON, M2N 6R8

To Purchase Tickets: Click this link and buy tickets online

Description:

High-steppers Sheesham and Lotus bring you an audacious mix of Old-Time, Ragtime, fiddle and banjo sung through their patented sepia-phonic Monophone! They play homemade bass harmonicas and Jaw-harps too, making them an asset to the workshop and clinic stages.

Flatfoot Buck-dance & Hambone!!

Originally brought together as the rhythm section for Canadian folk and fiddle outfit Flapjack in 1998, Sheesham and Lotus immersed themselves in the traditional music scenes wherever their travels took them, from West Virginia to Kasheshewan and California to Nova Scotia. They traded tunes and studied with old masters throughout the American south while becoming top-demand clinicians in old-time dance and music.

Sheesham and Lotus' self-produced debut CD, "Old-time Fiddle and Banjo" was met with critical acclaim from Canadian folk music publication, 'Penguin Eggs'. They accepted invitations to play folk festivals around Canada including Winnipeg, Ottawa, Lunenberg and Sudbury, receiving high recommendations for mesmerizing performances and keen work-shop skills.

Sheesham and Lotus appear as if they are from the very old days themselves. Dressed sharply in the old style, they play jaw harps, ham-bone percussion and home-made bass harmonicas in the ragtime and mountain style. They delight with fiddle tunes and blues songs and always have an instrument on hand and a tune to play.

Showtimes

December 28, 2012, 7 pm
December 29, 2012, 7 pm
A taste of Sheesham and Lotus:

The perfect holiday gift that brings a little fun, culture and class: Tickets to see A Christmas Carol at The Toronto Centre for Performing Arts

2012-11-16T13:57:00.001-06:00

My boys watching Peter Pan during March Break

DuffleBag Theatre returns for another fun-filled and hilarious season of interactive storytelling at The Toronto Centre for the Arts.

The DuffleBag actors are truly unique and engaging performers - they begin with the retelling of original adaptations of fairy tales with a funny twist. The interactive and unpredictable performances are a truly hilarious experience for all ages where the dream of living a fairy tale actually do come true as children are brought up on stage.

My family and I have seen the Dufflebag performances a number of times - both at school and the Toronto Centre for Performing Arts. Our children - both boys - absolutely love these plays. They get a kick out of the pure silliness and the shows never lose their attention spans, which is no small feat with young and active boys! We parents also enjoy the performances as much as the children because the acting is geared not only at children, but also at parent's funny bones.

So if you are looking for the perfect holiday gift that brings a little fun, culture and class then look no further. The Dufflebag theatre is your perfect little holiday "bag" of fun!

Treat your grandchildren or family to a performance of Dufflebag's latest show, which is perfect for the holidays: A Christmas Carol. Here are all the exciting details:

A Christmas Carol

Studio Theatre, Toronto Centre for the Performing Arts
5040 Yonge Street
Toronto, Ontario, M2N 6R8

To purchase tickets: Visit this website link

Performances From: December 22, 2012 - December 30, 2012

Description: This hilarious rendition of Charles Dickens classic tale is brought to life with the help of audience members who spontaneously participate, playing the main parts! Accompanied by audience participation and DuffleBag’s witty narration, these performances deliver hilarity and spontaneity every time.

DuffleBag Theatre returns for another fun-filled and hilarious season of interactive storytelling theatre! Since 1992, the “Nearly World Famous” DuffleBag Theatre has become one of the most celebrated companies at festivals and schools across the country.

Showtimes
December 22, 2012 11:00 am
December 22, 2012 1:00 pm
December 23, 2012 11:00 am
December 23, 2012 1:00 pm
December 29, 2012 11:00 am
December 29, 2012 1:00 pm
December 30, 2012 11:00 am
December 30, 2012 1:00 pm

Still want to know more? Here is a little glimpse into the Dufflebag Theatre.....

Happy Diwali 2012 - How to Have Fun in Little India

2012-11-13T20:18:00.000-06:00

Happy Diwali!

As is listen to fireworks go off outside I thought I'd share:

We are lucky to live in the area of the Gerrard India Bazaar, which opens us up to many different cultural opportunities, the latest of which is Diwali. Over the weekend Gerrard was open up to celebration, which included dancing, music, lights, and lots of delicious food! Diwali is known as 'the festival of lights' and celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over dark.

Diwali is an important time for Hindus, Sikhs and Jains, and lasts for 5 days. During the 5 days different gods and goddesses are celebrated and honoured. Food, especially sweets, are also important to the celebrations. It is wonderful at this time to go out in my backyard with the dogs in the morning, and already smell the delicious food cooking! It is also wonderful to walk along Gerrard Street and see the lights and hear the music, feeling like we are part of the festival with all the good spirit in the air!

In the pre-Christmas season, it's nice to feel festive around something that reminds one of what Christmas is really about, goodness, friends, family, food and celebration - so rather than look at Christmas with dread (as I do when I go to Starbucks the day after Halloween and find myself in a commercial Christmas wonderland), I am reminded about the ability for goodness to reign in a sometimes not-so-great world. I am also reminded that no matter what our cultural and spiritual differences, we all believe in the same important things, and can share the joy with each other year round.

You can make the most of Diwali with your family by:

lighting candles
spending family time together
feasting
singing
dancing

Sounds great, doesn't it?

Here's to goodness and light! (And if you missed the Bollywood dance lessons and mountains of delicious sweets offered in the Gerrard India Bazaar, be sure to visit next year!)

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Finding Balance in a Crazy World!

2012-11-06T12:54:00.002-06:00

This morning I read a blog by Deepak Chopra that encourages us to escape routine to better stimulate our minds. I am sure most of you are in the same boat as I am, relieved to finally - after the start of a new school year - come to some sense of routine once again. Yet the blog on escaping routine was thought provoking, and inspired me to hit on a topic I visited before in my earlier blogging days. It is an interesting topic to revisit as a now single mom of 2 boys age 13 and 10.

Chopra's blog states that routine can be mind numbing. I think that all of you other parents and even non-parents out there will agree that a certain degree of mind numbing is necessary for mental health in today's non-stop world! He does however stress that certain routines are necessary to overall health and well being, such as bed times and meals. Amen to that! And can you imagine if school started at a different time everyday? If you were waiting by the phone in order to go to work? That newborns were newborns for years, preventing establishing routine sleep from everyone in your house? No thanks.

I admit I am pretty hung up on my calendar. A few dear people in my life might even call me planning obsessed. I admire those who can fly by the seat of their pants week to week or even day to day, however I need some view of what the future holds for my sanity. And while my kids too poke me about my over-planning, they appreciate the level of organization our lives hold. In the summer, we had our friends from Australia visit and organized a party. The day of I told the boys we needed to go shopping for food for the party. "What are we having?" they asked. "I am not sure yet." I answered. I thought they were both going to have a heart attack as my older one said "Who are you and what have you done with my mother!!" If routine prevents conscious living, throwing together a last minute meal for 20 plus people was a pretty conscious few hours for me - I was sure conscious of the stress of NOT pre-planning!

But overall, does my organization of my life and that of my children prevent me from spontaneity and conscious living? Not at all - I think the key to happy living is balance between the two.

My house is always open to our friends and family, and constantly filled with last minute guests, joining us in conscious living at its best. Whether we are throwing together a meal, playing a game, having an impromptu dance party or playing our instruments and singing songs, we are as conscious and connected as we can be in that moment of time. Deciding to abandon our chores to enjoy a hike in the woods on a beautiful day reminds us of the world around us continuing to spin regardless of dust and laundry. Deciding to pass on a scheduled event in lieu of some quiet time to cuddle connects us to each other and our oh so important existence together.

And routine itself can be conscious living - the boys scheduled extracurricular activities are not numbing to their minds but enriching their minds, whether learning an instrument, a martial art, or how to save a life, they are connected and in the moment of learning on many levels important to being connected. Their schooling, while routine, I sure hope isn't mind numbing (and know isn't, thanks to their school's philosophical base in connection.)! And while, yes, I do find my job mind numbing at times, still provides opportunity for learning and being connected.

So balance is the key to a life that is enriched with meaning and purpose. Routine keeps us well oiled machines - rested, nourished and organised to function - to enjoy the spontaneity to reconnect with life and the things that are important in it - friends, family, nature, love, learning, and reveling in all the beauty life has offer every moment of every day when we escape the routine.

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2012 Free Movie Day on Saturday October 20th, 2012

2012-10-15T19:47:00.000-05:00

Join us on the morning of Saturday October 20 at all Cineplex Entertainment theatres for Community Day in support of Starlight Children's Foundation. Doors open at 8:30 am with a great selection of FREE movies beginning at 9:00am.

Plus, enjoy a regular popcorn, regular fountain drink and selected candy for only 2 DOLLARS each with 100% of the proceeds donated to Starlight Children's Foundation! More information

Easing Boredom: Fun and Educational Activities for Summer

2012-08-20T19:55:00.003-05:00

Article by: Breana Orland for OurKids.net, Canada's trusted source for camps and schools.

There are a million fun things for your kids to do during the summer, from camping and slumber parties to hiking and biking to beating the heat at the public pool. And there’s a good chance that the majority of the so-called “wasted” days of youth will go by during the long summer months.
While kids may be perfectly content to let the time slip by without so much as a backward glance at the school that steals three seasons of their lives each year, you, as a parent, must think of their scholarly pursuits, namely the fact that they won’t be pursuing them for the next several weeks. There is certainly cause for concern, considering how many children return to school in the fall having failed to retain much of what they learned the previous year. So how can you keep your kids on track during the break without derailing their summer fun?

You no doubt have plans to spend time with your kids while they are on hiatus, so instead of going to the beach or taking in an afternoon movie, opt for activities that are both fun and educational.

· If the great outdoors sounds like just the ticket, take in some sun with a nature hike. Many public parks offer guided tours that provide information on the local flora and fauna, and sometimes even historical footnotes. Or look online to see when meteor showers are happening during the summer and plan a mini-camping trip in your backyard for a little late-night stargazing.

· If you’d rather avoid a sunburn and stay indoors, check out museums in your area. A natural history museum is always fun and informative for kids, but many art museums also offer fare for the youngsters, from specialized tours to art-appreciation activities. Or sign them up for a summer theater program where they can make some new friends in person (instead of on Xbox Live, Facebook, or whatever other faceless social network they’re frequenting).

· On the other hand, you don’t really have to leave the house for fun summer learning. If your child is more of a homebody, look into a summer reading program. The Scholastic Summer Challenge, for example, encourages kids to read by allowing them to track their progress online, with thousands of others, in an attempt to break the world record for reading. Bookstores and publishers may also have a summer reading programs which reward children for logging the books that they read. They may also offer fun activities (word puzzles, story games, trivia, etc.) for download via their websites.

· If your kids are among the many that eat, sleep, and live video games, you can find a wide range of educational games online (for free) and on iTunes (available to download for your iPod, iPhone, or iPad, with prices ranging from free to about $5).

Summer can be both fun and educational for your children if you provide them with activities that do double duty. You don’t have to let them lounge in front of the TV all day or while away the time texting their friends and following Ashton Kutcher on Twitter.

So use the resources at your disposal (mainly the internet) to help you come up with fun ideas or to seek out local attractions and events that fit the bill. When your kids return to school prepared to continue learning, you’ll be glad you made the effort.

For more activities to help fight summer boredom, as well as parenting tips, school and camp information, visit http://www.ourkids.net.

Footer: Give your kids the best school experience this year. Meet with top schools across the country this fall at the Our Kids Private School Expos: http://www.ourkids.net/expo/

Best Places to Swim and Stay Cool in the GTA

2012-07-13T22:23:00.004-05:00

Breaking news people..... It is really hot outside. Record setting heat in the City and according to the good ole Farmer's Almanac we might just have a way hotter summer than usual. Being some what of a recreation nerd I have spent the last number of summers going to cool pools across the GTA and I thought I would share my favourite spots in no particular order.

Burlington Waterfront - awesome park, splash pad and awesome board walk and waterviews that never end. Also cool: Huge outdoor pool with killer water slide - Mountain Side Outdoor Pool
Lakefront Promenade Park, Port Credit, Mississauga - a number of parks and splash pads to check out. Great walking trails. Seriously beautiful area.
Pickering Waterfront - great walking trails and beautiful parks with splash pads
City of Toronto - Lots of to explore. My favourite - Christie Pits Park, Sunnyside and the new Sugar Beach Park is very sweet (Eastern Queen's Quay). There are also some amazing hotel pools to explore. My favourite is Radisson Admiral at Queens Quay. Here is a great blog post on that.
Oakville - Bronte Park - Fantastic huge wave pool that never ends. Lovely setting.
Centre Island - Centreville Amusement Park, Toronto - If you have never had the chance to go across on the ferry to Centre Island you must. The view from the boat is of the Toronto sky line is amazing. There are beaches and a great amusement park to check out. A must now that the amazing Ontario Place is closed for years to come. They had a sweet water park.
Wild Water Kingdom - Big water park with a drive in movie theatre now!
Canada's Wonderland - if you have big pockets or are lucky to get a good deal then the water park at Wonderland is pretty cool. I love the lazy river! My biggest beef? The security at Wonderland is a bit much. They don't allow any outside drinks or food so get ready to have your carrot sticks treated as contraband. Also, if you do choose to eat outside the park have to eat on a hill overlooking the parking lot. Just saying.

So people there is no excuse to stay in the air conditioning now is there? Get the hell outside and enjoy the crazy amount of sunshine that has been shining down on us.

Photo Credit: CBC

Am I missing something here? Leave a comment and links to the places you think are amazing.

Jeff helps rebuild Jamie Bell Adventure Park in High Park

2012-07-13T20:01:00.003-05:00

Blogger Jeff - Awesome dad and professional engineer
volunteers to help rebuild Jamie Bell Park in High Park

Being a regular visitor to High Park since moving to the west end of Toronto ten years ago, it broke my heart – and more specifically the heart of my seven year-old daughter – when I learned of the arson andpartial destruction of the castle park,better known as Jamie Bell Adventure Playground.

I never feel more connected to the City and its associated denizens as when my family takes a stroll through the park and make use of the many amenities, so when I noted that volunteers were sought to help rebuild the park, I gladly signed up.

That was some time ago and so it struck me like a bolt of lightning from a clear blue sky when Ward 13 Councilor Sarah Doucette’s email showed up in my inbox delineating the date & time of the re-building efforts. Once other conflicting plans fell apart in a timely fashion, I was able to confirm my attendance and was told to show up as part of the “Building Site Crew” at 8.30am.

Mike Holmes at Jamie Bell Park in High Park
(photo credit: of Toronto Star)

Looking back, it seems odd that I would have expected to be actually building. I had visions of labouring side-by-side with Mike Holmes, boosting my street cred as a total big-time handyman.

In the summer of 2008 my wife asked me to build a deck off of the side entrance to our house. Demolition, design, re-design and construction ultimately took four months to complete, so it really was foolhardy to think that the Holmes Do It Right crew would be looking for my brand of contribution.

When I arrived in the torrential downpour on Saturday morning, I signed in, procured my t-shirt, and then commenced milling around looking for work – I felt a fleeting connection to depression-era men looking in vain for some kind of meaningful work to do, but there were simply so many of us (there had to be 100 people waiting around at this time) that it was not easy to come by. That said, I managed to make myself moderately useful as follows:

1. Help unload rakes, wheelbarrows and shovels from a small delivery truck
2. Load and move pre-cut shields – to be adorned by kid volunteers – from the firemen’s work area over to the kids’ craft pavilion (at the time it was under construction)

Thanks to my hearty enthusiasm with my barrowing efforts with the firemen, I managed to secure arguably the most glamorous position available: jigsaw operator. It was suggested that “we don’t have enough of these shields” so more shields were to be produced. Bring on the jigsaw!

Jeff & a huge crew help with the
rebuild of Jamie Bell Park in High Park

Over the next 1.5h, six of us (myself, three other volunteers and two members of the Toronto Fire Department) worked on cutting out and sanding additional shields, which would be painted by youths and then affixed to the playground in strategic locales. I believe we probably turned out ~100 shield and I managed to snap two jigsaw blades, much to the amusement of my fireman overlords. The vast majority of the hundreds of volunteers - both young & old - were set to task moving mulch, manning booths, helping to paint shields (yes!) and moving security fences. It was a rather impressive sight to behold and it was a morning I will long cherish.

The park, when I left it prior to painting being undertaken, looked great, so one can only guess at how impressive it will be once it is complete this coming weekend. Moreover, it has all kinds of kooky features that should age nicely for years to come. It’s always great to see a community come together for a common purpose and succeed so remarkably well, though I will say that it is a bit sad that it often takes an act of destruction to stimulate such generosity of time, energy and resources. Hopefully there is no reason other than wear & tear to have to rebuild it any time soon.

The Jamie Bell Park in High Park Re-Opens on Friday, June 13, 2012.

Photo Credit: Photopia

Many thanks to Jeff Reitsma for not only helping out on the High Park Rebuild but also graciously agreeing to write this post for us.

More about Jeff: Jeff is a engineer, father of 2, long time Toronto West Resident and all around awesome guy (and interestingly enough, not a dream crusher although he'd like to say he is).

Five Steps to Finding the Best Camp for Your Child

2012-06-28T09:02:00.001-05:00

Article By: Sharon Aschaiek for OurKids.net, Canada's trusted source for camps and schools.

The first time your son or daughter goes to summer camp is a big step—for you and your child. Fortunately, with so many different summer camps from which to choose, you have a better chance to find the best fit. "I think every camp has its own personality," says Catherine Ross, communications officer with the Canadian Camping Association. "The program, location, the style and philosophy of the director – all can give an idea of the type of camp that’s best for the child."

1. Is Your Child Ready? Are You?

✓ Consider your child’s ability to handle being away from the family, whether for just part of the day or overnight.

"Look at whether your children can look after their own belongings and make their own bed because at camp, they’re expected to look after themselves," Ross says.

In reality, there’s no set age for when to start day or overnight camp. Readiness is more important than age. Some camps even offer a three-day, two-night introductory program for campers as young as three. "Each child is different," says Troy Glover, director of the Healthy Communities Research Network at the University of Waterloo and head of the Canadian Summer Camp Research Project. "Some kids will want to go at a young age, and some will never be ready."

If you’re anxious about this new experience, don’t let it hamper your child’s enthusiasm. "It’s harder on you than on them," says Blaine Seamone, director of Discovery Day Camp in Richmond Hill, Ont. "Once kids get dropped off and start playing, they usually don’t look back."

With lifelong friends and an important mentor he met at camp, journalist Steve Paikin doesn't hesitate to encourage parents who are afraid of sending their children to camp. "Get over it. It's not about you. It's about your kids," says the author, documentarian and host of TVO’s flagship current affairs program The Agenda. "And if you pick the camp that is the best fit for your children, you'll never regret it."

2. What Are Your Child’s Interests?

✓ Find out what matters most to your child about camp. Choose a camp that piques interests or focuses on what your child enjoys or excels at while allowing her or him to try new things. "Camp is a really great opportunity for kids to engage in activities they normally wouldn’t do in the school year," Glover says.

Today, there's a camp to fit every interest, ability, need and budget. What's best for your child? Day or overnight? Single sex or coed? Traditional or specialized?

3. Make a Checklist

✓ You'll need to consider several factors about potential camps, as well as your wants, needs, goals and priorities.

• Location: How close should camp be to your home?

• Fees: What are the costs, and do they fit your budget? See tips for paying.

• Transportation: Is busing available? Is there an extra cost?

• Day vs. overnight camp: Which option would best suit your child’s first time at camp? (See day camps or overnight camps.)

• Types of activities: What does your child enjoy doing?

• Programs: Are kids grouped by age? Are the activities age-appropriate?

• Length of sessions: Are shorter sessions available to help your child ease into overnight camp?

4. Research Your Top Camps

✓ Start your general search online. Browse www.camps.ca and the websites of the Canadian Camping Association and your provincial camp association to learn about camps in your area.

✓ Research prospective camps early. Most camps have application deadlines, and popular camps can fill up quickly. Camp expos and open houses can help your family find the right fit. "Start a year in advance so you can visit them when they're in session and see them in action," Ross says.

✓ Ask the camp director questions.

• What is the camp's vision and how is it put into practice?

• What is your background and experience in leading summer camps?

• What kind of training do staff receive?

• What is the ratio of counsellor to campers?

• What kinds of facilities are on site?

• What is a typical day's schedule?

• What are your health and safety protocols?

Download the ebook from Camp 2012.

✓ Get other parents' perspectives. "Ask the director to refer you to other parents to get a more unfiltered perspective on the camp," Seamone says.

✓ Include your child in the process from start to finish. "Every child has likes and dislikes, and should have a say in this decision," says Heather Heagle, executive director of the Ontario Camps Association. Your child's feedback on the final decision keeps the experience positive and ensures that she or he is happy with the camp, Glover adds.

5. After You Find the Right Camp...

✓ Get the fine details about the camp. Find out its application process and its policies on fees, payment options, deadlines, meal plans, transportation services, sick days, cancellations and refunds. "When applying, be frank about your child’s needs so that they can be properly met," Ross says.

✓ Build excitement and ease anxieties by helping your child become more familiar with what to expect at camp. Browse the camp's website, social media sites, information packages and, if available, DVD.

Give your kids a Summer Camp experience this year. Find top camps for kids and teens at www.ourkids.net/camp.

Car Seat Tips & Installation Clinics in the GTA

2012-05-18T18:36:00.004-05:00

Some parenting jobs never get any easier, and using car seats is one of them. Safer cars, clever engineering, sturdy anchoring systems and updated laws have all helped reduce the number of children who are seriously injured or killed in traffic collisions. But selecting and installing the right car seat for your child — and your vehicle — is still a challenge.

GM Canada Ltd., Baby Car Seat Experts Inc. and Wee Welcome are sponsoring free child passenger safety fitting clinics throughout 2012. Certified child passenger technicians will be on hand to install and inspect baby car seats.

The events will be held at selected General Motors dealerships across the Greater Toronto Area.

Please book your appointments for a safety check or installation

Most Common Mistakes & Safety tips

Always read and follow vehicle's owner manual and/or child restraint manual for instructions.

Become familiar with the three stages each baby must to go through (rear-facing, forward-facing and booster seat) and determine when it’s time to graduate to the next stage.

Contact dealership to deactivate side-mounted airbags in back seat before installing car seat.

Must use a base with infant car seats, unless it’s an emergency and a very short ride.

Car seat should "click" when securely attached to the base.

Do not use Universal Anchorage System (UAS) located in outbound positions (i.e. passenger or driver side in back seat) to install baby in centre seat position. Vehicle’s manual usually prohibits it.

Do not install infant car seat in the middle of back seat thinking it's the safest spot. The presence of a fold down armrest can fall on the baby.

Do not use or borrow an expired car seat without checking expiration date.

Do not buy used car seat from stranger without knowing its history (Car seat involved in a crash MUST be discarded).

Do not use rear-facing slots for the harness of a forward-facing seat.

Do not squeeze a rear-facing car seat by pushing one of the front seats too far back (must always leave at least half an inch of space between restraint system and front seat(s))

Do not neglect seat angle or height of shoulder harnesses.

Do not assume that because the seat is tightly secured, it's been correctly installed (i.e. tether is often not attached to the right spot, if at all).

In Ontario, if seat is installed rear-facing, it must achieve a 45-degree angle along the spine (recommended angle may vary in other jurisdictions).

To comply with current laws, ask a dealership to install a tether bolt if you drive an older model that doesn’t have one.

Unlike most brands, Britax and Sunshine Kids convertible car seats MUST be tethered in rear-facing position.

Seat should never be able to move more than one inch in any direction.

Remove loose objects from vehicle as they can become dangerous projectile as the vehicle gains speed.

Make sure harness straps are not twisted, too tight or too loose (Harness should be flat and snug only one finger fitting between straps and child's collar bone).

Do not use a locking clip when the vehicle’s seatbelts already have a locking mechanism.

Booster seats are required for children under the age of eight, weighing 18 kg or more but less than 36 kg (40-80 lb) and who stand less than 145 cm (4 feet-9 inches) tall.

Women in Biz Conference for Professional Women in the GTA

2012-05-15T13:21:00.001-05:00

The 2nd annual sell out Women in Biz Conference is the gathering place for all professional, self employed & entrepreneurial women to network and learn new skills over two fun filled days in downtown Toronto. Attendees enjoy free workshops (Mentorship and Gift of Fear - Business Intuition), conference sessions, business coaching and networking parties where you can connect and learn from liked minded women in a beautiful setting overlooking Lake Ontario on May 31st & June 1st, 2012.

Complimentary childcare can be arranged for all attendees courtesy of Kids & Company.

The conference features noted author and CityLine regular: Kimberley Seldom as well as CBC's Nora Young and radio personality Judy Croon just to name a few. WIBN speakers will inspire and educate with practical content in areas such as social media, marketing, branding and business planning. Free business coaching is available with MBA All Star founders.

Participants will leave the conference with new contacts, a renewed sense of purpose and most importantly new skills to put to work in their professional life. Register now for as little as $99.
Register ends May 25th. Don't delay!

More information:

Agenda
Free Conference Childcare
Free Business Coaching
Conference Speakers
Conference Sessions
Conference Workshops
Conference Parties
Location/Hotel Accommodations

Gta Parent - Toronto Area Parenting and Community Information

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1 Year National Membership $125+HST

Discover Amazing Perks Like No Other Business Membership -

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To celebrate capturing your video moments Kidzview developed a list of:

Five tips for making magnificent holiday memories through video:

Stepping out on the Town: Sheeham and Lotus bring toe tapping old time Jazz, Blues and Fiddle for Fashionable Night of Fancy Fun!

Details:

Sheeham and Lotus bring a night of live music.... homemade instruments and all!

From December 28, 2012 - December 29, 2012

Location:

5040 Yonge Street, Toronto ON, M2N 6R8

To Purchase Tickets: Click this link and buy tickets online

Description:

A taste of Sheesham and Lotus:

The perfect holiday gift that brings a little fun, culture and class: Tickets to see A Christmas Carol at The Toronto Centre for Performing Arts

Happy Diwali 2012 - How to Have Fun in Little India

Finding Balance in a Crazy World!

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Women in Biz Conference for Professional Women in the GTA

**Five tips for making magnificent holiday memories through video:**