As schools across the nation become more diverse, the need for inclusive and culturally responsive education is more important than ever. This applies to all subjects, including music.Traditional music curricula, often focused on Western classical traditions, may no longer fully address the needs of today’s diverse student populations.Updating the curriculum to create a multicultural music…
November is National Diabetes Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness, supporting those affected, and promoting preventative measures against diabetes. Diabetes, a chronic condition affecting millions globally, occurs when the body fails to regulate blood glucose levels, leading to various health complications. This month is an opportunity to emphasize the importance of education, support, prevention,…
Children are 3.5 timesmore likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than an average day WASHINGTON DC — With all the fun and festivities of trick-or-treating, it can be easy to forget a frightening reality: Halloween continues to be the most dangerous day for child pedestrians. An analysis of the ten most recent years of federal…
In today's fast-paced world, parents often feel the pressure to excel in every aspect of their lives—whether at work, in their relationships, or especially in raising their children. For many, especially new moms, this overwhelming responsibility can lead to stress, burnout, and mental health challenges. Amid the whirlwind of parenting, it's crucial to prioritize both…
October marks National Bullying Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the harmful effects of bullying and uniting communities to prevent it. Bullying remains a significant issue affecting children, adolescents, and even adults across various settings. It can take many forms, including physical aggression, verbal harassment, social exclusion, and cyberbullying. The effects of…
It’s not uncommon to catch preschoolers dilly-dallying when they’re supposed to be tidying or school-aged children putting off homework for more desirable tasks. But are these forms of procrastination? And do they influence future adult tendencies? These are questions Brock Professor of Psychology Caitlin Mahy is taking steps to answer. “Research on procrastination in young…
In the tapestry of family life, grandparents often hold a cherished and vital role. Their presence can deeply shape the lives of their grandchildren, providing a unique blend of wisdom, love, and support that transcends generations. While many families might focus on the bond between parents and children, the influence of grandparents can be just…
Every year, on August 12th, the world celebrates International Youth Day. This day is dedicated to recognizing the importance of empowering young people and acknowledging their potential as change-makers in society. While this celebration often highlights the achievements and aspirations of the youth, it is equally important to acknowledge the pivotal role that parents and…
A backyard pool promises endless summer fun and a refuge from the heat. Yet, with this refreshing oasis comes the weighty responsibility of ensuring our children's safety. As we embrace the warmer months, let's remind ourselves that water, as delightful as it is, harbors risks that can change lives in mere seconds. "Every summer, families…
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, taking time for oneself often gets pushed to the bottom of the priority list. With demanding work schedules, family responsibilities, and a constant influx of digital information, it's easy to overlook the importance of self-care. National Self-care Day, celebrated annually on July 24th, serves as a poignant…
Discussing challenging topics with children is never easy, and one such conversation that often worries parents happens before entrusting their teens with the family car. Talking to teenagers about safe driving is a crucial conversation parents must navigate to ensure the safety of their child and everyone else on the road. The Travelers Canada 2024…
As families embrace the sunny outdoors, ensuring everyone is protected from harmful UV rays becomes essential. Dr. Julia Carroll, a board-certified dermatologist, shares practical tips on making sun safety a fun and integral part of your family's routine. Q1: Why is sun safety important for families? Dr. Julia Carroll: Sun safety is crucial because exposure…
Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability across the world, and Canada is no exception. National Injury Prevention Day, observed annually on July 5th, is a crucial reminder of the importance of injury prevention in ensuring Canadians can live long, healthy lives. Through education, advocacy, and community involvement, we can significantly reduce the…
June is Men's Mental Health Month, a crucial time to acknowledge the unique challenges men face when it comes to mental well-being. While conversations about mental health have become more commonplace in recent years, a persistent stigma still surrounds men seeking help. This silence can have serious consequences, as men are far less likely than…
Reaching the two-year mark in motherhood is a milestone filled with a spectrum of emotions, experiences, and invaluable lessons. As I reflect on these past two years, I am struck by the profound transformation that motherhood brings. It's a journey that defies simple categorization, blending moments of unparalleled joy with times of significant challenge. Here,…
Menstrual Hygiene Day was marked on the 28th of May, to highlight the importance of good menstrual hygiene management. Experiencing a first period is a significant milestone in a child's life, often accompanied by a mix of excitement, anxiety, and curiosity. As a parent, your guidance and support during this time can make a profound…
Vancouver theatre company Boca del Lupo will co-presented TREE with the Vancouver International Children’s Festival. There will be two separate shows: TREE for infants ages 0 - 2; and TREE: A World In Itself, for neurodiverse children, ages 4 and up. Both by Theatre Motus, a Puppetry theatre company from Quebec, who will perform a stunning, engaging, live theatre piece for your child, created just for them!
THREE CANADIAN PREMIERES and FOUR CANADIAN FEATURE FILMS April 7 - 16 at the VIFF Centre and Roundhouse Community Centre This year R2R is all about cultivating cultural appreciation. Three remarkable international films make their Canadian premieres at this year’s Reel 2 Real. Filled with playful songs and a deep respect for the tradition of…
Taking steps to protect your family’s health at home is a natural instinct. If there’s mold, you clean it. If you have a pest infestation, you remove them. But, there's a major pollutant commonly used in homes across Canada that increases risks to health that not enough people are aware of: gas. Across North America,…
Parents want the best for their children, and one of the things you can do to secure a bright future for your kids is to make critical thinkers out of them. A critical thinker is open-minded, curious, and can respect diverse perspectives.However, raising critical thinkers does not happen naturally, it will require some effort. You’ll…
As we usher in the dawn of a new year, it's the perfect time for families to come together and reflect on the past while setting intentions for the future. While resolutions often come and go, fostering a positive mindset and creating actionable plans can significantly contribute to the growth and well-being of each family…
The first report card is coming in December. If your child is in Grade 5 or higher, it’s going to look quite different because letter grades will no longer be given for children in grades K-9 and will only be given out in grades 10-12. We reached out to the Ministry of Education and Child…
In a world that often rushes forward at lightning speed, it is essential to remember this is not how we were designed to be. This is particularly evident as we learn more about the highly sensitive person, often concurrently diagnosed ADHD, anxiety, depression, or on the autism spectrum. For the highly sensitive or neurodiverse person,…
The start of a new school year can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for students and parents alike. As the summer days wind down, it's essential to prepare adequately to ensure a smooth transition into the academic routine. Whether you're a student getting ready to embark on a new grade level or a parent helping…
