Giving Them Something to Run With
I wrote a few weeks back about how kids will often surprise us with their initiative, dedication, and passion if we actually give them opportunities to take leadership and ownership of what they do. I’ve since had that conversation with
Plan for some Family Day fun
Whether you prefer to stay indoors or get outside, Family Day, and the weekend leading up to Monday, Feb. 18, offers us the opportunity to spend some extra time together. It’s also a great time to explore Toronto and the
This is our day to do our way
By Jane Muller Even on days when we’re not feeling it, there is love. And even though our loved ones know they are loved, it’s reassuring to them when we express those feelings. We’re not an “I love you” out loud kind
The Right Time Question
There’s a kind of question that comes up constantly when you’re talking about parenting. I call it the “right time” question, and it starts way before there are even kids around to worry about. You know the kind of question
Mom Stuff
By Christine Davis Lip Scrub Gently exfoliate and condition your dry lips this winter with this Burt’s Bees Conditioning Lip Scrub featuring honey crystals. It will help create a smooth base for lipstick application and leave your lips kissably soft for your
The Principles of the Thing
Setting clear but reasonable boundaries for children is an essential part of parenting. We’ve all seen situations where kids have been given either too little or too much structure and end up unable to regulate themselves. Kids need boundaries. It’s easy
Soulpepper presents Rose, a new original musical for all ages
By Sarah Wilson Imagine a story that begins with the words ‘Once upon a time’ and then goes places you never expected. Or a classic hero’s journey that’s unlike any you’ve ever seen before. Or imagine a musical in which a trio
Roll out the movies on Family Day
There are so many ways to enjoy Family Day on Monday, Feb. 18. If watching a family-friendly movie is on the agenda, here’s a list of some of the best movies both old and new. • Hugo – This 2011
Cool Stuff
By Christine Davis Fraction pouch Wear your heart on your pouch this Valentine’s Day and beyond with this versatile option from Parkland. It’s made of recycled water bottles, making it a socially responsible and cute option. Available at parklandmfg.ca. $17.99 Appaman Mod Suit Thoughtfully
Solid points for when to introduce solids
By Teresa Pitman By the early to mid-1940s, doctors were recommending that formula-feeding parents should be adding solid foods earlier and earlier. (In time, they began to recommend this to breastfeeding parents as well, though there was no evidence to support
Making a nest
This week has been a great week, because we finally (knock on wood) discovered a solution to our bedtime woes. My youngest son has real difficulties going to sleep at night. It isn’t for lack of trying, but some combination of
Parenting Induced Exhaustion
You may have heard this from a parent before, but sometimes looking after children makes me tired. I’m not talking about the physical tiredness that comes from children waking up in the middle of the night (which, thankfully, I no longer
A Chance to do Something Real
I’ve written before about how our family often hosts homestay students from other countries – Japan, Spain, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and now Germany. These students are usually in late high school or early university, and they stay for a semester
Growing up
You know how you see a picture of your kid from 10 years ago, and you know it’s your kid, and you even know it was you who took the picture, but you can’t for your life figure out how
Save smart for education
By Christine Davis According to the Government of Canada, 71 per cent of future jobs in this country will require a post-secondary education – which can be expensive. So as the reality of having to one day pay for your child’s
Hassle-free Trip Tips for Travelling with Tots
By Sandra Gordon Whether you’re road tripping it to Grandpa and Grandma’s, getting your passports stamped—or something in between–travelling with a little one is always a big adventure. With their love of a set schedule and the familiar, plus loads of gear,
More dad time: Parental leave keeps pace with changing roles
By Michael Kaufman, PhD This is an amazing time to be a dad. And all because fatherhood is undergoing a profound shift. Thirty years ago, it was a big compliment to tell a father it was good that he “helped out.”
When I have kids…
My sister-in-law and three year old niece are up from Louisiana for an early Christmas visit this week. It’s been a lot of fun having a little girl running around the house. My boys love it (although there have been a
Making Beautiful Music
I’m the only musically useless person in my family. Both of my parents and all four of my brothers play at least two instruments, some of them many more. All of them except my father have at least some post-secondary training
Mom Stuff
By Christine Davis Chemin Des Tourelles Powermatic 80 Lady Wonderfully luxurious, this Tissot watch is sure to be a special piece for Mom. Featuring a mother of pearl dial and automatic movement, it’s available with assorted straps and colours. Available at