As parents, we all want what’s best for our kids—especially when it comes to their health. Butwith sugary snacks and processed foods lurking at every turn, keeping their sugar intake incheck can feel like a full-time job. As a dad of two and a food entrepreneur, I totally get it. Not only am I focused…
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…
Think back to a favourite childhood play memory. Chances are, it took place outdoors and involved a small element of risk—whether playing near a stream, climbing trees or enjoying a game of street hockey. Little did you realize it at the time, but this very activity played a crucial role in supporting your development. In…
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,…
Adolescence is a time when youth typically want to fit in with their peers and be seen as similar to their peers. Yet, when adolescents don’t understand the changes their bodies are going through during puberty, many are left feeling different from their peers, and worry that they are not “normal.” The truth is that…
Eating disorders and disordered eating thrive in secrecy, so detecting them in your children and teens can often be difficult. However, there are signs and clues to be on the lookout for as a parent.
Findings from the Children’s Health Policy Centre’s (CHPC) scientific evaluation of the program Nurse-Family Partnership have shown that it improved maternal-reported child language and mental health at age two years.
In today's fast-paced and challenging world, it is essential for parents to prioritize their children's mental health. The well-being of children directly impacts their overall development, academic performance, and future success.
Have you heard the saying ‘You’re only as happy as your saddest child’? It’s not the most uplifting phrase but it may hold a lot of truth. If your child is struggling with behavioural and mental health challenges, you are likely in the struggle too. For kids, these struggles can be encountered at all ages…
Smile Organic Co. is the brainchild of naturopath Delphine Boillot, a former corporate lawyer and mother-of-three who founded the company 6 years ago when she couldn't find a healthy and nutritious milk alternative for her children. Along the way, Boillot was joined by two other health-conscious mothers: dentist and surgeon Sophie Godbout, who has a…
Taylor the Toucan, a relatable character for many children dealing with everyday challenges, is the star of the book series filled with positive parenting tips. Each story focuses on familiar family issues, and incorporates educational tips, parenting techniques, and simple-yet-effective strategies along the way. The storyline allows kids to feel connected to an everyday dilemma…
Many people do not realize that some common vacation activities can be potential health hazards, even if you are going on an all-inclusive vacation at a five-star resort. While most travel-related conditions such as Traveler’s Diarrhea, Hepatitis A or B are usually not serious, they could definitely put a damper on your vacation plans! The…
It's hard to believe it's already March and you may be anxiously awaiting Spring, like me. It's coming soon and so are the activities, Spring Break, and Summer Break. Our Family Resource Guide was put together to provide you with lists of businesses that can help you connect with the businesses you need to talk…
Children learn to read at their own pace but if your child is struggling to make significant progress compared to their peers, it may be possible they have a reading problem called dyslexia. According to Mayo Clinic, “Dyslexia is a learning disorder that involves difficulty reading due to problems identifying speech sounds and learning how…
As a child, I remember the gift box of little colored hearts my father would bring home as a surprise. We did not have much money, so this little box of sweet treats was a big deal for my sister and me. Or if we were lucky, the solid chocolate heart that showed through the…
The holidays are known as a time to indulge. But what if you or a family member need to follow a specific diet for health reasons? What do you do to still share in the holiday treats without breaking your recommended diet restrictions? Here are a few healthy alternatives to fill the sweet-tooth craving while…
We had the privilege of interviewing Megan Lammam and adding her to our Parent Profiles. Megan is an author, poet, and energy guide who explores the healing energy of nature and connection. She is the creator and guide of 'On The Path To Authenticity', a journey of self-exploration and healing offered in her monthly newsletter.…
Back-to-school is around the corner and that means back to packing lunches (sigh). With many schools increasingly adopting “Litterless Lunch” policies, the pressure is on parents to pack more eco-friendly lunchboxes. However, while research* shows that 76% of Canadians would like tips for little changes they can make in everyday life that would benefit the…
Reptiles are a valuable addition to a family setting because they like being handled, they are docile, and they enjoy our company. But! Are they completely safe around kids? Children can accidentally hurt a reptile (such as a crested gecko or a bearded dragon) by letting it fall or holding it by the tail. In…
Three-time award-winning author Shantelle Bisson was born and raised in Toronto and splits her time between Toronto and her marina that she purchased in 2018, Shantilly's Place, in the Kawartha region of Ontario. Having just launched her third book 'Loving Yourself Without Losing Your Cool' which is structured by Shantelle's own personal omissions -- she…
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued special weather statements for several parts of the province. The statement indicates our region will experience the first hot stretch of the summer with inland temperatures reaching into the upper 20s starting tomorrow, and into the low 30s into early next week.
At a young age, the little ones are not too conscious about their dental health. They resist toothbrushing, fear the dentist, and love sweets. These things can contribute to life-long problems, which could have been easily avoided if parents are more mindful. Here are some of the best activities that can teach kids the importance…
have a duty to protect the environment, but over half (52%) don’t know where to start*. A simple way to step-up sustainability at home is with some eco-friendly spring-cleaning hacks.
