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What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

August 13, 2009

August 13th

Watch Me Grow Family Garden Drop-In Program (High Park Children's Garden, Colburne Lodge, High Park)

Each Thursday in August at the High Park Children's Garden kids can plant, water, and harvest the garden and prepare fresh snacks from their efforts. There will also be crafts and snacks. Caregivers must supervise kids for this is a drop-in program (no registration required). Call 416 338 5055 for more information.

August 14th

Meet and Greet with Elmo (Ontario Place)

Yes, that's right, the red guy will be available to shake hands with and for a photo op at Ontario Place. He will be appearing daily starting on the 14th through to Sunday the 16th. Call 416 314 9900 for more information.

Movies under the Stars (Downsview Park, 35 Carl Hall Rd)

Come to enjoy a movie in the great outdoors (rain or shine) in Downsview Park. This week is Horton Hears a Who (a fav of Gigi). The movie starts around 9pm (sunset)

All Weekend

ZOO-ZA-PA-LOOZA (Toronto Zoo)

Waterslide Theatre at the Toronto Zoo will have a special animal show, singers, and all sorts of entertainment all day long. The event runs between 9am and 6:30pm and is included in the price of zoo admission. Visit their site or call 416 392 5929 for more information.

FREE WEEKENDS at City of Toronto Historic Sites

Free admission on Saturday and Sundays for the remainder of August at Toronto Historic Sites, so go check out the programs and events at Colborne Lodge, Fort York, Gibson House, Mackenzie House, Montgomery's Inn, Scarborough Historical Museum, Spadina Museum, and Todmorden Mills. Depending on location there may be music, drama, crafts, and snacks for all the family to enjoy.

The Sound of Music is in the Air (Yorkville Park, Cumberland and Bellair Streets)

As part of the The Sound of Music is in the Air series of musical acts, this weekend strollers and shoppers in the Bloor-Yorkville area this weekend shoppers can enjoy Plakaso (August 15) and Donald Guinn Trio (August 16).

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

August 06, 2009

Ontario Science Centre 770 Don Mills Road
There is the Food Science exhibit, the Lizards & Snakes: Alive! exhibit, and The Science of Spying going on right now and one of those is bound to interest the five and up crowd. For the younger ones, KidSpark is always an interactive (emphasis on active) fun time and the kids set the pace.

Also this weekend at the Science Centre is Opening the Universe, an art exhibit by Ontario College of Art and Design students. These works were inspired by astronomy and also in celebration of the United Nations' International Year of Astronomy.

Lakeshore Mardi Gras (1 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive, Etobicoke)
Colonel Samuel Smith Park will be the site of the Lakeshore Mardi Gras this weekend (starts Friday at 6:30 and reopens on both Saturday and Sunday at noon). this is the sixth annual free outdoor concert, that also features a kids zone, midway, food (and beer) market, and buskers. This event is FREE and for a full schedule consult the offical site (btw - Honeymoon Suite is playing at 8:30 - giggle)

Bloor-Yorkville BIA, Village of Yorkville Park
The Sound of Music is in the Air in Bloor-Yorkville (Cumberland and Bellair Streets). Free concerts run all summer long and this weekend. On August 8th is John La Rosa Quartet and on August 9th, The Quasimodal Trio.

Ontario Place
On Friday, August 7th, Ontario Place hosts Family Tested Day where the latest in toys are revealed by the editors of Canadian Family and they want you to try them out. These toys aren't available in stores yet and the results of your testing influence which ones will be featured in the Annual Top Toys Guide. Read more...

Top Five Things I Needed To Survive Our Vacation

by Katie

August 04, 2009

Because our trip across Canada was going to take weeks and we didn't really know when we would be able to do laundry, we had to pack our limited luggage with extreme prejudice. We were two adults packing as light as possible for five people - we had to be able to carry, fly, and drive with it from Atlantic to Pacific oceans.

So obviously I had to pack light on the toys and entertainment selection because there is no question which wins in the extra underwear versus full-size and operational Buzz Lightyear Doll debate.

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

June 25, 2009

This weekend looks like it might be hot and maybe sticky in places - not to mention a tad fragrant from the garbage strike. Since the majority of water features & parks are closed, I'm not sure exactly how we are going to stay cool but we will find a way. Our agenda may include a trip for ice cream at Dutch Dreams, or a playdate at Dufferin Grove (I was there today with Mamalooper and No Mother Earth) - because the shade of that park makes for hours of comfortable playing.There are also some other things going on around town (and just outside) that we may check out:

The CN Tower is having a Birthday!

The CN Tower is turning thirty-three -- wow, really? It doesn't look a day over 20 -- and for the special day on Saturday the tower will be red and white (have a look for it before bedtime).

Cobourg Highland Games Festival

Why not escape the city and the garbage and strikes and head to Cobourg to experience over 100 pipers, dancers, and Celtic traditions of all kinds at the Cobourg Highland Festival. There will be games going on all day (every see a man toss a telephone pole or a cannon ball -- IN A KILT? Here's your chance). Everyone can be Scottish for the day, just stay clear of the hagus.

Summer Music In the Garden at Harbourfront Centre

Starting today and every Thursday at 7pm / Sundays at 4pm there will be a free performance of classical music and dance all summer long. The music and dance take place in the garden that was designed by Yo Yo Ma and Julie Moir Messervy. Concert admission is free and all performances are weather-permitting. For more information on the concert series visit Harbourfrontcentre.com

Summer Reading Club Kick-off

At many branches around the city, the TD Summer Reading Club is starting this week and the theme is Agent 009. Check the Toronto Public Library branch nearest you for registration dates to pick up your reading club super sleuth kit. Gerrad/Ashdale (1432 Gerrad St. E) will be be signing up all day Saturday and Long Branch Library (3500 Lakeshore Blvd W) will be having a kick-off on Saturday between 2 and 3pm.

image: flickr ajschu Read more...

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

June 18, 2009

It's Father's Day this weekend and of course The Bunch Family has something cool going on. This Sunday is Totstock, an outdoor "eco, rock, and literary festival" (weather gods call for sun and high of 27) and here are the details:

Totstock '09
WHEN: Sunday, June 21, 2-5 PM
WHERE: Sorauren Park
COST: PWYC, proceeds to benefit the High Park Nature Centre

Line-Up includes Claire Jenkins * Andrew Larsen and Irene Luxbacher * I Eat Kids * Don Kerr and the Blue Bin Band * Claudia Dey * Cowboy Ninja Bear * Cirque Dirt * Barbara Klunder * Dave Wall

Also going on around town:

Father's Day Stories and Craft

This Saturday afternoon, Maria A. Shchuka Library (1745 Eglinton W) celebrates Father's day with a dad-centric themed story time and craft. 11 - 12pm. Call 416 393-1000 for more information

Kids Krafts at Mackenzie House

This Saturday, the entire family is invited for an afternoon of crafts at Mackenzie House (82 Bond Street), the home of Toronto's first mayor William Lyon Mackenzie. Children can participate in historically based activities and make a craft between noon and 4:30pm. Call 416 392 6915 for more information.

Teddy's Bear Picnic 2009

Saturday afternoon at The Elman W. Campbell Museum (134 Main St. S, Newmarket) is hosting the annual Teddy Bear Picnic that will include games, contests, beary fun activities. Pre-registration required. Call 905 953 5314 for more information.

Road Trip Songs for Preschoolers

by Katie

June 16, 2009

My daughter is almost always singing which I can't really complain about because she does it well, it helps her with memory skills, and it keeps her busy. That last point is really important because when stuck in a car, I will take singing on the top of her lungs over the constant refrain of "Are we there yet? Are we there now? How about now? [loud audible sarcastic sigh] Are we there YET?"

So in the event of break in the singing, I try to keep some easy-to-remember lyrics in my head to inspire my favourite singer. Plus when I join in it really makes for a good ol' ear-splitting time.

The Ants Go Marching - the key to a good car song is repetition and fun lyrics. This one goes all the way to ten rounds AND each ends with a wonderful BOOM BOOM BOOM! No promises that the BOOM! won't be annoying by the last chorus.

Baby Bumblebee - I don't know if it's because my daughter likes squishing that bee but she laughs hysterically every time we sing this one together.

Knick-Knack Paddywhack - again the repetition and the fact that my sister and I used to sing this on the top of our lungs during roadtrips makes this a hit with my family.

B-I-N-G-O - the song that never really ends and requires hand motions is a winner with me. Just as long as I remember not to clap while driving.

10 Little Monkeys - it's not beyond me to actually make this 20 little monkeys, especially when a road stop is no where in sight. Read more...

Visiting the National & Provincial Parks with Preschoolers

by Katie

June 15, 2009

What is your favourite national park to visit with the kids? Have you ever camped with a preschooler? How can a parent make visiting a park or heritage site fun and interesting for the young ones? Parks Canada has some great resources in the online Teacher Resource Centre. There are fact sheets, ideas for activities, and print-outs like crossword puzzles for older children.

Our destination this summer is Kejimkujik National Park in Nova Scotia. I've been camping there more times than I can remember and can't wait to share it with Gigi this year. Since I've always done back country camping (mostly canoeing and portages), we will adjust our itinerary to suit an almost four year old. Using the site, I was able to figure out what sites would be most suitable for our family and activities she can participate in while there.

We also plan on spending time in Algonquin Provincial Park this summer which will be a first for both Gigi and me. If it hadn't been for their website, I would have never known about the theatre and art centre in The Algonquin Room. Also, we might have to plan our trip around one of the Public Wolf Howls because howling with/at the wolves sounds very Dr. Doolittle.

So how about you? Will you be visiting any of the many magnificent parks in your province this year?

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What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

June 11, 2009

The weather promises to be somewhat June like this weekend so get thee family OUTSIDE!

It's the closing weekend of Luminato and if you haven't caught any of the activities yet, you are missing a really fun and inspiring time. What excites me the most is the Cirque du Soleil "encounters" that will be taking place around the Harbourfront Centre and The Music Garden approximately every 30 minutes. How often can you see the most amazing circus in the world do mini-performances for free? The family program at Luminato is hosted by my favourite fun factory: The Bunch Family. See all the details for the weekend activities at their site.

Also in the artistic inspiration arena is art09 which is taking place today through Sunday at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. This is another family-friendly event where local and international artists show off their creations and children can make their own in a supervised family arts & crafts area. Children are encouraged to create a message of hope to attach to The Tree of Hope that will be presented to SickKids hospital after the show.

This Saturday, the entire family is invited for an afternoon of Kids Krafts at Mackenzie House (82 Bond Street), the home of Toronto's first mayor William Lyon Mackenzie. Children can participate in historically based activities and make a craft between noon and 4:30pm. Call 416 392 6915 for more information.

Also on Saturday at Woodside Square Library (1571 Sandhurst Circle) drop by between 11 am and noon to make a special craft for Dad at the Celebrate Dad session.

On Sunday Ontario Place is hosting The Childcare Show between 10 and 5pm. This Expo is a family-friendly event where parents can meet childcare professionals to learn more about childcare, educational and recreational activities in the Greater Toronto Area.

Also on Sunday at McMichael Canadian Art Collection in Kleinburg (10365 Islington Avenue), Summer Magic is taking place. The Poynter family are putting on a magic and comedy show for the entire family to enjoy. Drop by between 11am and 4pm (shows at 12:30 and 2:30)

Top Five Books About Having Fun with Grandparents

by Katie

June 09, 2009

This week, my top five is going to run with the grandparent theme featured in the guest post yesterday. The following list is of Top Five Books about having fun with Grandparents. Which means these are great books to be read by Grandparents or just when you miss hanging out with Grandma or Grandpa. Which makes me think: it's high time we saw the Grandparents.

Just Grandma and Me by Mercer Mayer
We have read this book so many times together that I think I know it by heart. Little Critter and his Grandmother go to the beach together where Little Critter tries to be a very helpful grandson. Look for the spider and cricket who appear on every page.

Just Grandpa and me by Mercer Mayer
What can I say? We love Little Critter. In this story Little Critter goes on an adventure filled trip to the department store with his Grandfather to get a new suit. Remember to look for Little Critter's bug friends.

Grandpa and Me by Karen Katz
Cooking with Grandpa is the nice twist in this story about a grandchild helping out in the kitchen. This is a bright lift-the-flap book by the same author who wrote and illustrated the really adorable book Where Is Baby's Belly Button?

Here Comes Grandma by Janet Lord (art by Julie Paschikis)
Grandma is coming to visit! Grandma has sent a letter describing how she is going to take her trip to see the grandchild she really misses. She comes by horse, car, and even hot-air balloon to deliver her hugs and kisses.

Grandpas Are For Finding Worms by Harriet Ziefert (art by Jennifer Plecas)
Grandpas know how to do all sorts of things. Some love carpentry, some fishing, and others are masters at making silly faces. But regardless of their special talent, all these grandpas do one thing really well: they all make their grandchild feel really special.

These books are also all available in the Toronto Public Library system.

"Leaping" across generations: How seniors and children can read together

by Katie

June 08, 2009

Today I have a very informative guest post by Glen Atkison, Director of Marketing for LeapFrog Canada. June is Senior's Month in Toronto and Glen has ten tips on how to encourage children and seniors to read together and connect over books.

Did you know this month is Seniors Month? At LeapFrog we think it is important to encourage children and seniors to read together this month (and ideally every month). It is a great chance for seniors to share their experiences and love of reading with younger people.

As a parent, I can see the benefits reading offers my daughter, who likes a wide range of books including Dora the Explorer and the Robert Munsch classics. Unfortunately, many people don’t or can’t take advantage of the opportunity to read with their children. Not only can seniors help children enjoy reading in a peaceful one-on-one environment, assisting a child with reading can also improve the youngster’s literacy skills. The situation is win-win – by reading with a child, seniors have a sense of value, contributing to the future, and purpose. Finally, both the youngster and senior get to connect through the joy of books.

While being a hands-on dad and working for a company that promotes reading, I have learnt a few things on how seniors and children can read together. Here are my tips:

Choose books using the five finger test. Have the child open a book and read one page aloud. For every word they can’t pronounce or don’t know they should hold one finger up. If they put five fingers up the book is too difficult to read alone, if they do not have any fingers up the book is too easy and if they have two to four fingers up the book is appropriate.
Read aloud with the child. For really young children you can solely read to them, for children around 4 to 6 years old you can read a story to them and then have them read it again or alternate pages, and for older children you can encourage them to read to you.
Cook recipes together from children’s cookbooks. Or, if you have a traditional recipe that you usually cook from memory write it down together and then follow the instructions.
Read a book and then take the child on a trip related to it. For example, you could read Fancy Nancy at the Museum then take a trip to a nearby art gallery.
Start a book club. For example, read The Little Engine That Could, then make conductor’s caps, draw pictures of trains and sing songs about trains.
Let little ones play with their food. Give them alphabet snacks such as cereal or cookies and have them spell three words before eating them.
Share books that you loved reading when you were younger.
Offer access to educational learning aids, such as the Tag Reading System, that encourage alphabet knowledge and reading.
Encourage the child to talk about the books they have read. For example, which character would they want to be or how would they change the ending?
Be patient and supportive. Sometimes children take a while to recognize a word and sound it out.

Glen Atkinson is the Director of Marketing for LeapFrog Canada. He brings to LeapFrog a wealth of experience, having worked in marketing for other major brands. He is dedicated to LeapFrog’s One Million Reading Hours, which encouraged parents to read with their children for just 15 minutes a day last summer, leading to over 1,000,000 million reading hours being generated. This is a philosophy that he embraces, as he is a dedicated dad who reads with his daughter every evening.

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

June 04, 2009

This weekend there are quite a few things going on around town and I'll be hosting one of the events (warning: self-promotion ahead) so if you are free on Saturday...

I'm hosting a BlogHer Toronto get together this Saturday morning at the Don Mills Brickworks between 10 and 12pm (see full details here) and we'd love any blog-hers to join in. It's family friendly -- I'll be bringing Gigi -- and we will be hanging out, enjoying the sunshine and farmer's market. I'll bring the coffee, you just bring your beautiful blogging self. Let me know here if you can make it.

Also on Saturday, Bunch is hosting a free family block party at Yonge-Dundas Square as part of the Luminato Festival!. Here are the details:

Family Dance Party: Luminato Edition

Date: Saturday, June 6

Time: 11 AM - 2 PM

Place: Yonge-Dundas Square (1 Dundas St. E)

Hosted by MC Abdominal with DJ Fase.

Children are invited to make banners for the next weekend's closing events of Luminato. Sounds like fun, so I think we'll try to do both.

Also going on this weekend:

Mackenzie House (82 Bond Street)

This Saturday, the entire family is invited for an afternoon of Kids Krafts at the home of Toronto's first mayor William Lyon Mackenzie. Children can participate in historically based activities and make a craft between noon and 4:30pm. Call 416 392 6915 for more information.

Harbourfront Centre

Luminato presents Red Sky Performance: Tono. Tono is a form of dance that links the Indiginous cultures of Canada, Mongolia, and China. Performances on Saturday at 4pm and 8pm and on Sunday at 4pm. For more information visit the Luminato website.

Nathan Phillips Square

Walk Now for Autism is a short 3km family-friendly walk taking place this Sunday to raise money for autisim research and awareness. There will be games, activites and entertainment for all ages. The walk starts at 10am at Nathan Phillips Square but festivities begin at 8:30 am.

Class Trips with Preschoolers

by Katie

June 01, 2009

Today I was a class parent on a trip to a local farm and if there is one thing I’ve learned in this first year of having a school-age child, it’s always pack for the unexpected. But of course, I only just learned that lesson today with the unexpected things being the weather and a food shortage.

You see, I felt very cocky this morning when we left pretty much on time to catch our bus to the farm and felt confident that I was prepared with the selection of items in my backpack. Oh how wrong I was to feel so confident.

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

May 28, 2009

There's a lot to choose from this weekend but I stuck with indoor events based on the weather of the past few days. Though I had to include the Great Strides event at the Toronto Zoo because it's for such a great cause. Stay dry folks!

Distillery District

Children's Trunk Show runs 9:30 to 4:30 Friday. Over fifty vendors in a totally kid friendly atmosphere -- think stroller friendly aisles and kid-friendly products. Plenty of parking (The Distillery
In the Fermenting Cellar, Buildings 6 & 7, 55 Mill Street)

Art Gallery of Ontario

Off the Wall! Dr. Mariano Elia Hands on Centre at the AGO. Come and make your mark at this amazing play space in the newly renovated AGO. Recommended for ages two through ten and open daily from 10am to 2pm.

Solar Stage Theatre

Happy Birthday, Alistair Ant is a space age musical puppet show about life's simple pleasures. Recommended for ages three to seven, there are two shows on both Saturday and Sunday but tickets are going fast.(4950 Yonge Street, near Yonge and Sheppard)

Toronto Zoo

Collect a minimum of twenty-five dollars in pledges for cystic fibrosis Great Strides campaign and receive free admission to the zoo on Sunday May 31st, plus a special show, free lunch, and loot bags. For more details visit the Toronto Zoo website and for pledge forms go to cysticfibrosis.ca/greatstrides

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

May 21, 2009

No better time than this weekend than to get out and do some gardening with the kids. Our local church is having a plant sale and the weather looks great, so I'll lather up the sunscreen on everyone, put a hat over every head, and prepare myself to be scrubbing dirty finger nails at sundown.

If you are looking for some kid-friendly green thumb inspiration that won't break the piggy bank this weekend check these Toronto events out:

Doors Open at the Don Valley Brick Works

Plant seedlings, learn how to create a container garden, buy plants, and all sorts of other environmentally friendly activities will be going on at the Evergreen Brick Works, and see the plans to regenerate these industrial buildings. Local artists and storytellers will be on hand to help inspire creativity at this family-friendly event. Doors open runs both days this weekend May 23rd 10-2pm / May 24th 10-4pm

Celebrate Spring & Grow a Garden at Riverdale Library (370 Broadview Ave)

On Saturday afternoon at the Riverdale Library, children are invited to plant a butterfly garden and take home a plant for their garden. Call for more information 416 393 7720 May 23rd 2-2:30pm.

And not plant related but definitely planet related, this is the last weekend to check out Cosmic Revolutions at the Ontario Science Centre. This is a fascinating photography exhibit that includes photos done by both professional and amateur astronomers, photographers, and artists from across Canada. Show the kids how other Canadians take in the night sky.

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

May 14, 2009

Zellars Discovery Zone opens this weekend at the Toronto Zoo

I'm not sure if it's going to be warm enough for the water park but the weather is right for getting up close to the animals. Kids can meet goats, prarie dogs, pigs, and more friendly animals in this kidcentric zone of the Toronto Zoo. Included in admission to the zoo, the Discovery Zone opens this Saturday and will continue to be open on weekends only until mid June when it switches to seven days a week.

Harbourkids: Impact at the Harbourfront Centre

This weekend the Harbourkids program theme is all about what impact kids can have on the world. There will be LEGO, there will be juggling, there will be circus acts, there will proof that one small act can make a difference. Program runs May 16 - 18, 11am to 5pm and check the Harbourkids website for detailed events.

Saturday Afternoon Movies at Sanderson Library (327 Bathurst St)

Family friendly movies are show at Sanderson Library from 2 to 4pm and everyone is welcome to enjoy some free entertainment. Call ahead for movie specifics 416 7653

Schad Gallery of Biodiversity opens at the ROM

Nature takes over the ROM starting this Saturday; Learn all about biodiversity at the new Schad Gallery and what we can do to conserve our eco-systems.

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

May 07, 2009

You mean besides Mother’s Day?

Scratch that: Mother's Day is the most important thing going on this weekend (IMHO) so here are lots of mom-themed activities to do with the people who make Mom the person she is today (sleep-deprived and insane.)

To kick it off, there is the annual pre-Mother’s Day Bunch Family bash which is where I will be this Saturday afternoon with family in tow (details below).

Bunch Family Dance Party: Glam Rock Pre-Mother's Day Edition

Takes place Saturday afternoon from 2-5pm at The Courthouse (57 Adelaide Street East) and the theme is Glam Rock baby! So dig out the shiny pants, New York Dolls tee, and anything that will make your family look more Ziggy Stardust and come dancing. The crew from TVO Pop It will be there to share dance moves, there will be bowie inspired face painting, and lots of other glitter-inspired "we love mom" activities. Advanced tickets highly recommended. Visit the Bunch Family website for ticket purchase details.

Other Mother's Day activities going on around town:

Chinese Brush Painting for Mother's Day at Woodside Square Library (1571 Sandhurst Circle)

To compliment both Asian Heritage Month and Mother's Day a children's workshop will take place from 11 - 12:30 pm on Saturday. Children will create a brush painting to give as a gift to mom on her special day. All materials provided and registration can be done via phone 416 396 8979.

Mother's Day Celebration at Humber Summit Library (2990 Islington Avenue)

There will be a one-hour story time and craft session starting at 2pm at the library and children will make a special gift for mom. Registration is required so call ahead 416 395 5840.

Happy Mother's Day at St. Lawrence Library (171 Front Street East)

Listen to stories that celebrate mom then make a craft to give her on Sunday. The one hour session starts at 2pm and is recommended for children ages four and up (416 393 7655).

Mother's Day at the Toronto Zoo

Meet some other kinds of moms - as in "other species". Springtime means parent animals are abundant at one of our favorite weekend excursions. Walk on the wild side with Mom (and Dad) on Sunday between 9 and 6pm.

Mother's Day Tea at Spadina Museum (285 Spadina Road)

Enjoy an afternoon tea with Mom in the beautiful Spadina House and gardens. A must for any ladies-in-waiting. Two seatings at 12:30 and 2:30pm on Sunday. Advanced tickets are required. For more information call 416 392 6910 x305.

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

April 30, 2009

There are many things to do this weekend and the weather looks like it will cooperate perciptation wise (now that I've said that, it will rain both days). If we don't hit any parks this weekend, I'll be sorely disappointed but I think we will all be happy campers if we hit at least one of the activities below this weekend. Happy first weekend in May!

Trainspotting: Preschooler Edition

by Katie

April 28, 2009

Looking to do some trainspotting with the kids? Toronto is filled with all kinds of trains: street cars, subways, GO, Via and CNRail. We hear them in the early morning and rarely a day goes by without seeing at least one kind of train on tracks. I'm not sure what the magic is behind trains, but even I love to watch one fly by almost as much as Gigi. Ever since she was a little baby, she has loved the woosh of the subway. Thank goodness she also has the smarts to stay waaaay behind the yellow line when the train rushes into the station.
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What's Going On This Weekend In Toronto

by Katie

April 16, 2009

Riverdale Farm is hosting an Earth Week event. This Saturday morning, between 9:30 and 11:30, the Buildings & Grounds Committee and volunteers are planting two hundred trees and shrubs on the property. Gigi and I were just there today and I just love that this farm is right in the heart of the city for everyone to enjoy.

Also going on this weekend is Sprockets, The TIFF For Children. Movies this weekend start at 10 am and end late afternoon. At the Canada Square location there will be additional activities available for film patrons; hands-on stations including make-up and Green Screens are there to inspire junior film makers and stars. Schedule information (including recommended age groups for viewing) and ticket purchase can be all done online. Festival runs until April 24th.

And not this weekend but coming up on April 28th, 29th, and 30th, is Dora The Explorer: Search for the City of Lost Toys at the Canon Theatre and I'm sure this is going to be a popular show. Because it's Dora, live and in person which may make my child's head explode. And of course Dora will be appearing with Boots, Swiper and I sense Tico might drop by (oh and Benny because it’s not a party until Benny arrives.) While it pains me to be so familiar and fluent in Dorology, I can concede that this spunky, yet annoyingly perky, and goody two-shoes girl is a better role model than many of the other commercial offerings out there. I may draw the line at dressing my child in Dora gear from head to toe, but I do have a soft spot for her show. In fact, I’ve learned more Spanish since becoming a parent than any courses I took in school. For ticket information on the show visit the Ticket King website.
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Top Five Preschooler Crafts made from Household Items

by Katie

April 14, 2009

Does your preschooler collect sticks and rocks? Or consider empty containers, bottle caps, buttons, and the like, as treasures? Actually, I know that’s a redundant question because I haven’t met a kid yet that doesn’t have a collection of found treasures. Since I am raising one of these burgeoning pack-rats, I’ve had to find a way to use all these treasures, or at least find a way to store them so they aren’t underfoot. For this, I turn to craft time.
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Crossing Number Six off The List: The CN Tower

by Katie

April 06, 2009

We can cross one of the “must-do activities” off the list ! Last week, we went up the CN Tower with friends and spent a fun couple of hours overlooking all of Toronto and the Lake. Any reservations I had about Gigi being scared evaporated as soon as I saw her make her way to the front of the glass elevator to watch the city shrink before her eyes. Trains we had just passed in the PATH looked so tiny as we zoomed up 113 storeys in about a minute. I seriously thought she might freak out but nope, not a chance. This girl danced on the glass floor, lay down so I could take her picture, and ran around on the 114th storey outdoor deck full tilt.

This Weekend in Toronto: Young People's Concert The Melodic Life

by Katie

April 02, 2009

This Saturday, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra presents The Melodic Life as part of the Young People's Concert series. This series is a fantastic way to introduce children to the symphony. Each concert is aimed at children aged 5 to 12 and based on my experience, the one-hour performance is just the right length for the intended audience. The concerts each feature a different guest conductor and other artists, plus a musical piece or theme selected to completely entertain and engage children.

What's going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

March 26, 2009

It may be raining this weekend but the temperatures are on the plus side and rain doesn't need to be shovelled. There's lots going on in and around the city so there is no excuse to get outside with the family. Unless you are really lazy. Like me ;)

Saturday March 28th
Starwatch & Earth Hour
TVO and the Ontario Science Centre need you to get outside with the kids after dark, and count the stars around the Big Dipper. Then they want you to compare the results found during Earth Hour on Saturday night. Enter the data online to help answer the question "Do you see more stars during Earth Hour?" Full details on how to participate can be found at TVOkids.com and OSC sites via the Earth Hour links.

Saturday Senanigans at the Bata Shoe Museum
This weekend the Bata Shoe Museum hosts the Annual Toronto Festival of Storytelling where children can listening to tales told by some of the best storytellers around. There are sessions for children 5 and under, and children 6 through 10. Session details can be found on the website. Readings are scheduled during both the morning and afternoon on Saturday and Sunday.

Sugarbush Maple Syrup Festival at Kortright and Bruce's Mill
Tap into some of sweetness and spend a day in the beautiful outdoors, eating pancakes and going on wagon rides. Runs both Saturday and Sunday full details on their website.

It's Maple Syrup Time
MapleTowne is open at Mountsberg Conservation Area.Wagon rides through the sugar bush, see a demo of maple candy creation, and sample some of the goodies - sounds good to me. Activities are on daily from 10 to 4pm both Saturday and Sunday.

Sunday March 29th
Bunch Family Salon - Contemporary Art Edition at OCAD
Leading artists and thinkers spend the afternoon with parents and children, for an afternoon of creativity. Games, workshops, and inspiration galore at the Ontario College of Art and Design. (100 McCaul Street, 2 - 5 pm) www.bunchfamily.ca (recommended to purchase advance tickets)

Top Five Walking Paths in Toronto

by Katie

March 24, 2009

Before this past Winter hit, a friend and her daughter invited Gigi and I for a tricycle ride in a park. She suggested one of the great ravine parks we had never visited before and I’m so glad she did. We hit the East Don Parkland, near Finch and Leslie. We just parked on one of the side streets near Alamosa Drive where there is an entrance to the ravine. We spent hours walking around, going over bridges, and have a picnic in one of the clearings. The girls had their tricycles and the paths were completely accessible (great for strollers, bikes, wheelchairs, and carts).

After our trip there, I started to research more of these fantastic trails around our beautiful city and any time someone mentions or suggests their favourite spot, I jot it down in hops that we can check it out. We are avid walkers, and now that Gigi loves her tricycle, I want to give this apartment-dwelling girl all the room she needs. She is F-A-S-T!

Yesterday I read a great article by John Goddard in the Toronto Sun about author Elliott Katz and his research on Toronto walking trails. Mr. Katz knows what he is talking about when it comes to walking in Toronto; he is the author of Great Country Walks Around Toronto, which was first published in 1984 and now is in the sixth edition. He created the book of twenty-two trails, with maps and directions from TTC, after moving here from Montreal. A friend had suggested he go for a walk in Rosedale Ravine near St. Clair subway station and he was amazed to discover the tranquility and nature just steps away from the bustling streets. With research, he concluded many of these hidden park treasures in the city were hidden because the paths into them are mostly hidden. So he wrote the book so others in Toronto could enjoy nature without leaving the city.

In the Toronto Star article, he shared his Top Five City Strolls and those parks are now my top five trails to hit this Spring with Gigi. Care to join us?

Rosedale St. Clair to Moore Avenue
East Don River Steeles to Sheppard west of Leslie
Humber River Valley Old Mill subway to Eglinton Avenue
Scarborough Bluffs Bluffer’s Park to the lakeshore
Lower Highland Creek and East Point Park Lawrence Avenue E past Morningside Avenue

Please share any of your favourite walking spots – especially those that are tricycle/bicycle friendly. It really makes it an easy bedtime when my child has had a long bike ride or walk, and we all love getting outside. It makes me feel all healthy and stuff, and that can only be a good thing (sure beats being a couch potato.)

What Can a Preschooler Grow in the Garden?

by Katie

March 17, 2009

We are still talking about our garden these days and it must be because my parents are in town for Canada Blooms - a mecca for gardening lovers of all kinds. Because I came from a family of gardeners, I know enough that putting together our balcony garden must be done with some planning. First I need to determine what can grow in our limited space, and then figure out how much room they need. I know that last years broccoli did not take off (space issue), but our basil was through the roof. Oh and the beans put up a good fight but they just couldn't get the right light. Maybe we should do just one edible and the rest beautiful because flowers seem to do well on my balcony. I guess the real question is what are the easiest plants for a preschooler to maintain and have a high success rate.

To determine what are the best plants to choose for the garden, especially ones that have the best chance so pint-size gardeners will see the fruit of their labour (pun totally intended) it will come as no surprise that there are many good online resources out there to find the answers; I like the Canadian Wildlife Federation's Wild About Gardening site. There is great advice on how to garden in small spaces (or any space), and how to design and plan your plants. If we had a backyard, I'd definitely want to start a natural habitat garden and the Evergreen is a great site for determining what plants grow best in specific parts of Canada.

Anyhow, based on my research (criteria: easy to grow and works in our space) I've determined the best plants to try with Gigi this year are:

Lettuce - it grows well in the shade and cooler spots and very productive.
Carrots - not fast but the stems look nice while waiting for the reward
Tomatoes - I've done it before, and I'll try it again, these work well in our garden and the rewards are yummy.
Petunias - We will use transplants and I think Gigi will love doing the maintenance.
Marigolds - I think that these flowers are perfect starter flowers for a preschooler. It's hearty, pretty, and easy to maintain.

Actually, these plants work well in many spaces, not just our limited area. And I'm totally open to any suggestions of successful plants grown in this area (with a small space stipulation). We will try anything once - in the garden.

Now I just need to find Gigi a pair of gloves, a large brimmed hat, and let the season begin. Fingers crossed that we will be rolling in salad this summer ;)

Gardening with a Preschooler

by Katie

March 16, 2009

Just like Gigi and I did last year, we are planting another balcony garden. This year Gigi can help out in both the planting and transplant stages now that she can restrain herself enough not to dissect the seeds or the seedlings. Curiosity gets the best of my little lady sometimes; she just can’t resist testing / crushing everything out. When it comes to gardening, it’s my job to make it interesting and well paced for curious hands, and luckily that isn’t hard.

To make it interesting for Gigi, we talk about our favorite fruits and veggies and how they made it to our table. Last year's balcony garden crop of basil made some of the best homemade pesto which she loved, and this year I think she will understand the process more fully since she will help from the seed phase up. Compared to last year, this season there is lots more she can do than at age two and a half. This year Gigi will make all the holes for the seeds in our plant tray (with supervision because those holes can get too deep) and be in charge of gently patting down the soil post-seeding. I know from experience that she’s an expert misting and watering assistant, and I’m sure once those greens start poking through, she will make an excellent plant parent.

Another way to get my little city kid interested in garden is to visit one of the many gardens around the city. Toronto Botanical Garden (777 Lawrence Avenue East) often has classes and workshops for children and families, plus once the weather warms up, the themed gardens are open (all are free admission). Allan Gardens (Carlton St at Jarvis) is right down town and is filled with all sorts of exotic tropical plants, and right now the spring bulbs are on display (until end of March). The Children’s Garden Program in High Park was created to give city kids and families the chance to do hands-on organic gardening activities from planting, maintenance, and harvest. There are various programs and activities for children, including family drop-in programs for hands-on activities like crafts, harvest cooking, and nature tours. All are great opportunities to learn all about plants and how things grow.

Anyhow, so this kicks off another year and harvest in casa motherbumper and I can’t wait for the first batch of pesto (still our favorite home grown entree to date). I don’t care if there isn’t any proof, it does taste better homegrown.
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My Sous Chef

by Katie

March 09, 2009

How did I ever get this far in life without knowing about Monkey Bread? Well, I'm as astonished as you are. I only learned about the magic hunks of gooey goodness last week when I picked Gigi up at nursery school. Her teacher recited the recipe while my daughter excitedly presented me with a baggie full of the bread. We all had a laugh when Gigi pulled her now-infamous of "look mommy, I saved you a treat but I'm going to eat it for you now that you've seen it" scam and gobbled it down as I emptied her cubby spot.
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What's Going On This Weekend In Toronto

by Katie

March 05, 2009

This weekend looks like it will be very mild which is WAY better than these Arctic-like freezing temperatures we've been having lately. Though, one positive products of this cold weather is the sugar run. Both the Kortright and Bruce's Mill conservation areas kick off their Sugarbush Maple Syrup Festival on March 7th. The festivals include wagon rides, demonstrations, pancakes and of course, the star of the show: Maple Syrup! Children under four are free at both locations - for full admission rates and directions to both events, click here. This event runs until April 13th.
Read more...

99 Things To Do With My Daughter Before She Grows Up

by Katie

March 02, 2009

Way back when I started blogging for Savvy Source Toronto, I started a list of 100 things to do with my daughter in Toronto before she got too old to want to spend a weekend or evening with me. You just know that any day now she's going to figure out I'm not cool at all and ditch me for her friends. So before that time comes, I've got to get cracking at this list. The first thing I've done is update it.

I decided to break the activities into categories like Classes, Touristy, Festivals to be all organized (which for me is a major accomplishment these days). Some a bit closer to the five and up age categories but it's nice to have this be a reminder. Maybe I should print this off and put it on the fridge for those days when we are all saying "there's nothing to do." In Toronto, there is always something to do. I think my favourite category in here is the Farms for City Kids, we hit a few last year and had a blast. Gigi loved the hayrides, I loved the fresh produce, and we both loved the animals. Nothing beats escaping the city, even if it is only for a couple of hours.

National Ballet of Canada (Art, Film, & Drama)
Art Gallery of Ontario
Solar Stage Children's Theatre
Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young People
National Film Board Mediatheque
CN Tower (Be a Toronto Tourist)
Centre Island
Ride the entire subway system
Canada's Wonderland
Hockey Hall of Fame
Medieval Times
Ontario Place
Honest Ed's
Kensington Market
Toronto School of Circus Arts (Art/Pottery/Circus Classes)
Glitter Pie Art Studio
Art Garage Inc.
Messy Hands Art Studio
Avenue Road Art School
Academy of Artisans
Cedar Ridge Creative Centre
Gardiner Museum Pottery Classes
Andrews Scenic Acres (Farms for City Kids)
Chudleigh's Apple Farm
Downey's Farm Market and Winery
Forsythe Family Farms
Whittamore's Berry Farm
Black Creek Pioneer Village
Taste of the Danforth (Festivals and Special Events)
Word on the Street
Nuit Blanche
Festival of South Asia
Sleepover at Toronto Zoo Serengeti Bush Camp
Sleepover at the ROM
Sleepover at the Ontario Science Centre
Sprockets TIFF for Children
bunch family parties
March Break Spring Fling at the Rogers Centre
Royal Ontario Museum (Museums)
The Ontario Science Centre
Riverdale Farm
Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum and Arts Centre
Bata Shoe Museum
Campbell House Museum
Casa Loma
Crawford Lake (reconstructed Iroquoian Village)
Gibson House Museum
Fort York
Markham Museum
Toronto Botanical Gardens
Toronto's First Post Office Museum
Blue Jays game (Support the Home Team)
Toronto Maple Leafs Game
Toronto FC Game
Toronto Zoo (Animals and Zoos)
Bowmanville Zoo
High Park Zoo
Humber Arboretum - Centre for Urban Ecology
Jungle Cat World Zoological Park
Mountsberg Wildlife Centre
Animals with Whimz
Richmond Hill Wave Pool
YogaBuds (Anything Active)
The Yoga Sanctuary
Plunge aquatic centre (Collingwood)

Obviously if you have made it down this far, you've figured out that I haven't made it to 99 yet. I'm still working on it and am totally open to suggestions (help a girl out, would ya?). Read more...

What's Going on in Toronto

by Katie

February 13, 2009

Bloor-Yorkville's IceFest 2009 is this weekend and it's the perfect excuse to chill out in downtown Toronto. On both Saturday and Sunday from noon until four, A World of Ice ice sculpture exhibit will be taking place in the Village of Yorkville Park (Bellair and Cumberland). Sculptures will include a passport-free trip to the the Eiffel Tower, Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Sphinx, Big Ben, the Statue of Liberty, and of course the CN Tower. If you go on Saturday, the Annual Sassafraz Ice Carving Competition is at noon and you can actually watch the ice sculptures created from the block, up.
Read more...

Count Me In: Counting Songs and Rhymes

by Katie

February 09, 2009

Part of Gigi's daily routine at nursery school is circle time and I've noticed lately that she has learned many of the lyrics and rhymes. It’s not unusual to hear her belt out a song in the morning and she really loves to sing and shout out newly learned tomes at home. So since we have been concentrating on pre-math skills these days, I've collected together the lyrics to her favorite counting songs so I can butcher it sing along. I figure, as long as we do it at home, I figure I'm not hurting anyone with my offkey cat-killing noises. And I’ve also collected and learned some counting rhymes because sometimes, well frankly sometimes I just don’t feel like singing.
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Deadline: Kindergarten

by Katie

January 27, 2009

Even though I am chomping at the bit to have my little lady go to Junior Kindergarten next Fall, I'm also a little bit sad. I keep denying myself the time to wallow in this sadness and analysis it, justify it, prepare myself for it. And in fact, I'm just in full denial most days. I keep telling myself she's going to love it ( she might not ) and we will have more routine in our lives. Oh and Read more...

What's Going On This Weekend in Toronto

by Katie

January 23, 2009

This weekend marks the 250th birthday of The Bard Robbie Burns, also known as Scotland's favourite son (though my favourite Scottish son is Ewan MacGregor - rawr). A family friendly celebration will be taking place at the Mackenzie House (82 Bond Street) this Sunday between noon and 4pm, and events include Celtic musical performances, shortbreads, and maybe a haggis or two (ewww). For more Read more...

Year of the Ox

by Katie

January 22, 2009

This coming Monday, January 26th rings in the Chinese New Year, and this is the Year of the Ox. The Ox symbolizes prosperity through hard work. Hey, let's hear it for prosperity (always good) and a little hard work never hurts (too much). Booyah! Anyhow, on that day, my daughter and her classmates will be celebrating the Lunar New Year and I'm looking forward to hearing all about her Read more...

Best Bet Books: Winter is for Hockey!

by Katie

January 21, 2009

Each and every morning Gigi and I are reminded that we are in the depths of the great, mighty, and powerful Canadian Winter. Our toes are often frozen, our noses and cheeks are burned red, and Gigi loves to scream at the wind "STOP!" It's freakin' cold outside and it's impossible to forget. Even our method of going to school has adjusted to the season: we go by sled more mornings than not, and Read more...

another giveaway: become a math skills master

by Katie

January 16, 2009

The last giveaway was such a success, I decided to do another and the kind folks at Nintendo were pleased to supply a fun new release Nintendo DS game from the Personal Trainer line. This time it's an educational game, aimed at taking the "pain out of arithmetic" by making math fun and rewarding. Personal Trainer: Math can help improve basic math skills for kids and adults who want to brush up Read more...

It's important to me!

by Katie

January 06, 2009

Three has presented some interesting challenges in parenting. And when I say interesting challenges, I mean to say: Three has presented some of the most frustrating and head-butting moments in my history as a parent. But I say that with love - no really, I do. Don't get me wrong: I find Three a lot of fun and so far this year has been full of all sorts of amazing magical parenting moments. But Read more...

What better way to end 2008, than with a top ten list

by Katie

December 30, 2008

You know what I need to do for this week's Tuesday list? A top ten year end round-up list. Because making lists is what Tuesday is all about and this being the last Tuesday of 2008, I'm going to list my favorite Savvy Souce posts - written by yours truly - from the past year. Researching and writing these posts this past year has been a blast. It's been extra motivation to explore Toronto and Read more...

Everyone loves a giveaway

by Katie

December 26, 2008

So did you get up early this morning and join the crowds for the great Boxing Day sales around town? I can't stand the crowds at the best of times so we decided to sleep in and check out what was on sale online, from the warm, uncrowded comfort of the homestead. Something I discovered while bargain shopping online today is some blogs are featuring really great giveaways. And winning cool stuff Read more...

Best decorated neighbourhoods in Toronto.

by Katie

December 23, 2008

Do you do up your house all in lights, candles, with a full life-sized santa sled with eight reindeer skidding off the roof? I remember driving around the city with my parents when I was a kid and marveling at all the homes done up to the rafters with colourful strings of lights, Coca-Cola Santas on the door, and assorted Christmas characters standing in the yard. We were a more sedate family Read more...

I think it might be snowing in Toronto this weekend

by Katie

December 19, 2008

Okay, let's be serious, it's snowing cats and dogs in Toronto right now so nobody is going anywhere tonight BUT I bet lots of kids are thinking about the hills tomorrow. Specifically, which ones in the neighbourhood are going to be the best for sledding. And by the looks of things now, the front yard will probably be high enough. I'm glad I bought the sled last weekend, because we will be using Read more...

What's going on this weekend in toronto

by Katie

December 12, 2008

We watched Rudolph the Rednose Reindeer tonight. If you read my post yesterday I had said that Gigi was too scared to watch this particular movie and I didn't push the issue. And tonight, I was surprised when she requested it and didn't ask to turn it off during some of the scary scenes. She seemed more turned off by Burl Ives but she was brave. She did cry out and clutch a pillow to her face Read more...

Christmas past

by Katie

December 11, 2008

Not meaning to brag, but Christmas rocked when I was a kid, it really did. And it was also a well balanced celebration, not just a gift fest. Sure, we received great gifts on the twenty-fifth, but in my family and school the entire Advent season was celebrated. At school we had daily advent calendars - a tree shaped wall hanging with little drawers full of tiny fun gifts. The anticipation for Read more...

More gift ideas for this holiday season

by Katie

December 09, 2008

Confession: Today I'm focusing on recommendations for toys that I had or coveted as a child. And toys that I still like to play with (does that make me immature?) Anyhow, the first two toys belonged to my older brother more than me and every chance I had to play with both those building toys, I was a very happy girl. Next, Play-doh is something I willingly play any time of day, I love it as much Read more...

What's going on in Toronto this weekend

by Katie

December 05, 2008

At ROMKids Weekend on both Saturday and Sunday there will be lots of fun for the budding palaeologists and dinosaur lovers in your life. Gordo and Gertie, the dinosaur baby mascots of the ROM will be on hand to meet the kids (I hope they are herbivores) and the Dino Dig will be open from 10 to 5pm both days and is included in the price of admission. Kids can try their hand at digging for bones Read more...

Gift idea: poingo

by Katie

December 04, 2008

More and more often these days, when we are out and about or sitting around with books, Gigi will ask me specifically what words or phrases say. At age three, she's really getting into reading, which both excites me and also exhausts me ( I don't know what it's like with your kids but some days I get multiple requests for the same book that go right into the double digits, a zone I refer to as Read more...

Toys! toys! toys!

by Katie

December 02, 2008

Sure, I say that I don't want Christmas to be all about toys but let's face it - toys are fun and they make Christmas morning extra special. I've gone through the Savvy Source Toy catalogue and picked out Gigi's top five favourite picks of toys that she already has at her disposal. I thought I'd share them with you - in case you need some shopping inspiration for the preschooler on your list: Read more...

What's going on this weekend in Toronto

by Katie

November 28, 2008

How can it be the last weekend in November already? HOW? Well there is no denying that the city is in full Holiday swing now. If you have time between shopping all the pre-Christmas sales this weekend here are a few things that are going on around the city: At Montgomery's Inn (4709 Dundas Street West) is a Gingerbread House workshop . This is a hands-on workshop where you build your own Read more...

Holiday Book Recommendations

by Katie

November 24, 2008

The holidays are coming fast and we have lots of books on our Christmas list for Gigi. We are firm believers that you can never EVER have too many books (if you saw our bookshelves, you would know this is very true). Since many people are putting together their shopping lists in this final stretch before Christmas and Chanukah, I thought I could make some recommendations based on some of Gigi's Read more...

Everyone loves to laugh: books that will make a preschooler giggle

by Katie

November 18, 2008

Gigi loves to laugh and she really loves to tell knock-knock jokes (really, really loves to tell them). What is it with three year olds and knock-knock jokes? They all love hearing them and they love telling them. Her favorite is: knock, knock / who's there / police / police who? / police let me in, it's cold out here . Her granddad taught her that one. Personally, my favourite is one of ones Read more...

Excuse for a quiet cuddle before bed

by Katie

November 17, 2008

Gigi is a high-energy child who is almost always on the move. Sure, she is sitting still for longer periods of time during the day since starting nursery school, but it's not consistent and needs some work ( sorry kid, but it's true ). Honestly, I love how spirited she is but it leaves little time for cuddling. And cuddling is something I love, need, and want because it negates all stresses of Read more...

What's going on this weekend in toronto (hint: it involves a man in red)

by Katie

November 14, 2008

The Santa Claus Parade is the weekend and I CANNOT WAIT. For over a hundred years, Toronto has heralded the arrival of Santa with this huge parade that originally started as a publicity stunt for the Eaton's store. How do you think Santa will arrive this year? Did you know that in 1913 Santa arrived in a sled pulled by REAL reindeer that Mr. Timothy Eaton imported from Labrador? Those reindeer Read more...

Top Five: Storytime in Toronto

by Katie

November 11, 2008

In my research for Toronto Savvy Source, this is probably one of the more difficult top five lists to pull together. Deciding which story times are the best in the city is pretty much impossible. So I decided the easiest thing to do is to list the first five that I can think of off the top of my head. Cop out? You bet, and without further ado here it goes (drumroll please): Mabel's Fables Read more...

What's going on this weekend in toronto

by Katie

November 07, 2008

I know that Hallowee'en was just last week but the winter season had descended full-tilt on Toronto already. Maybe not weather-wise (not that I'm complaining - I'll take 17 in November any day) but the Christmas decorations are up in the shops and the candy canes have replaced the Hallowe'en loot on the store shelves. This week marks the start of the downtown Winter Wonderland window Read more...

Owen: a book that makes her wonder

by Katie

November 03, 2008

Gigi was born into a family of bookworms. Our home is stacked from floor to ceiling with books and we just never seem to have enough bookshelf space to make it work. Our dream home would include a huge shelf lined library with big comfy chairs, a window with a inspiring view, and a roaring fireplace. I remember curling up with a book on a rainy weekend afternoon and falling head-first into books Read more...

What's going on in toronto this weekend

by Katie

October 31, 2008

Happy Hallowe'en everyone! I hope everyone enjoys a bit of tricks or treats this evening and that the weekend finds you in a pleasant sugar induced coma. Tonight is the Cadbury's Haunted House at the Gladstone Chocolate Factory (THINK: FREE CHOCOLATE). For each child that shows up in costume tonight, one dollar will be go Unicef. Can you think of a better place to do trick-or-treating than at a Read more...

Finally, it's Hallowe'en eve

by Katie

October 30, 2008

Finally, it's Hallowe'en eve and I think ( think ) we are prepared for tomorrow's much anticipated festivities. Gigi finally decided what she wanted to be for the school parade: a fairy princess. Which was a relief because I had no idea how I would have made a costume for a cat - ninja - butterfly - princess - pumpkin hybrid. Lucky for me, we already had the crown, wings, and wand so it really Read more...

Children's theatre in Toronto

by Katie

October 27, 2008

Gigi has a flare for the theatrics. Actually, I think most three year olds are very good at channelling their inner drama student and Gigi seems to pick up some new schtick everywhere she goes. And I must admit, I think she is a very good little actress - in a Norma Desmond kind of way. If you could have witnessed today's reaction when we didn't have her preferred cereal, you would have been Read more...

Dream Dollhouse

by Katie

October 23, 2008

Back when I was fretting about Gigi's third birthday , the plan for the big gift was a dollhouse. But who knew dollhouse shopping could be as complicated as shopping for a real home? Okay, maybe I'm exaggerating ever so slightly because there is no "location, location, location" when it comes to purchasing a dollhouse but still, who knew there were so many different houses on the market? Since Read more...

Haunted Hallowe'en for the entire family

by Katie

October 21, 2008

Exactly how scared do you and your loved ones want to be on Hallowe'en because there are lots of spooky-riffic things going on in Toronto. If you are looking for a haunted house: Casa Loma has turned into the Haunted Mansion just in time for all Hallows Eve. This coming weekend on the 25th and 26th of October, Casa Loma becomes the Haunted Mansion, with ghosts, goblins, dragons, a haunted Read more...

Finding Inspiration in Toronto: Part Two

by Katie

October 16, 2008

Earlier this week I listed some places in Toronto that could spark the imagination of little ones , but after I had compiled my list, I kept thinking of this place and that event and just couldn't keep them to myself. What can I say? I like to share and babble, just ask any of my family members. Anyhow, here are a few others inspirational places that only didn't make the cut earlier this Read more...

Finding Inspiration in Toronto

by Katie

October 14, 2008

Sometimes when all the books have been read, and all the local spots have been visited, Gigi and I hop on the subway or bus in search of adventure. I like to find places that inspire Gigi to act out some of the books she has read, or movies she has watched. Right now we have entered a really hardcore princess going to tea phase, so elegant places that call for dresses, tiaras, purses, and Read more...

Theatre for the young torontonian

by Katie

October 09, 2008

I love taking Gigi to live shows. She is absolutely thrilled to go to concerts, watch performers, sing and dance along - especially when invited by the cast. Luckily we live near Mel Lastman Square where every single weekend there is some kind of musical show on the main stage, and interactive library family time at the North York Central Library. Now that she is able to sit still for longer Read more...

Play pretend everyday

by Katie

October 02, 2008

One thing that completely blows my mind when Gigi is playing a game of princess, or tea party, or taking care of baby - is how much of our daily interactions or recent incidents work their way into the story line, all completely from her point of view. I sometimes do a double take when she re-enacts stuff like a recent visit to the local Starbucks. She will yell out stuff like Read more...

Queen of imagination

by Katie

October 01, 2008

I love October. Two of my most favorite people in the world celebrate birthdays this month: my mom and my daughter. The weather is crisp, cool, and makes me want to pull on the sweaters and fluff up the duvets. The leaves are falling and the colors are amazing. The smell of bonfires is something I wish I could bottle. Clothing is most comfortable (I love flannel and sweaters). And to cap it all Read more...

What's going on this weekend in toronto

by Katie

September 26, 2008

This weekend brings the Healthy Kids Expo to Toronto. The Healthy Kids Expo invites kids, teens, and parents to come check out all the different ways they can lead healthy lives and live green. Special guests include, of Oprah fame, Dr. Mehmet Oz host of Dr. Oz on the Discovery Channel, Wendy Mesley from CBC TV, and Member of Parliament, Olivia Chow. There are dozens of exhibitors, prizes to be Read more...

Great preschool buddy stories

by Katie

September 23, 2008

Making buddies is where it's at. Everyone needs a best bud; that person you can depend on to laugh at your jokes, who's face lights up when they see you, who loves to be with you - heck , who wants to be with you. Gigi has a small troop of best buds now that she's at nursery school and I can't tell you how much it makes my little heart go ba-doom-ba when I see her yell out her bud's name and Read more...

Word on The Street!

by Katie

September 22, 2008

There will be something for everyone of all ages, at The Word on the Street festival this coming Sunday. I'm putting this post up now so you can pencil this in for this weekend - you can thank me later. In case you haven't heard of this super cool cross-Canada event, The Word on the Street is a book and magazine fair that has been celebrating the printed word and literacy since 1990. On Sunday Read more...

International Talk Like a Pirate Day & Applicious

by Katie

September 19, 2008

Did you know today is International Talk Like a Pirate Day ? Arrrrrr mateys, it surely is - arrrrrr. So how does one learn the basics to talk pirate, other than locating an authentic pirate which is not a method I'd recommend because um..... the teacher would be a pirate. So how one can safely learn to speak pirate is by practicing saying " arrrrrrrr " as much as possible, especially when Read more...

Toronto this Weekend: Fall Folk Festival & Environmental Fair

by Katie

September 12, 2008

Admit it, Fall is in the air. Night is coming faster, the mornings are refreshingly nippy, and only at high noon does summer seem to be still hanging on. Personally, I love Autumn; I was always excited for the start of school, I love the beautiful weekends full of changing leaves, long walks, and drives, and Hallowe'en is one of my favorite times of year. This weekend there is a cool Read more...

What's going on this weekend in toronto

by Katie

September 05, 2008

Weekends at the Bata Shoe Museum are designed for families. Saturday Shenanigans continues this month at the museum with scavenger hunts. Families can do arts and crafts, a little dress-up with shoes. in addition to visiting the exhibits. On Sundays the museum has " paint a clog" Sundays where kids can - you guessed it - paint a clog. While visiting, don't miss the guided tour of the " Read more...

Staying cool

by Katie

August 26, 2008

Just because school starts next week (!!!! - I'm freaking out - this is new to us both !!!) doesn't mean that summer is over. It still gets hot and we still need ways to beat that heat. Gigi and I have a few tricks up our short sleeves, some involving prep, some involving activity, but all involving satisfaction of cool proportions. Staying Cool Tips a la Gigi: Make Juice Popsicles! We don't Read more...

Beach Blanket BeeBoppin' Tunes

by Katie

August 21, 2008

I don't know about you, but when someone says beach tunes I think of surfing, Frankie Avalon, The Beach Boys, and surf rock. My childhood was spent watching surfers from the beach and viewing lots of "K-Tel presents" album commercials on television. What can I say? They both left a lasting impression on me. Anyhow, I love sharing more classic rock tunes with Gigi because most of the Read more...

Getting away without going away

by Katie

July 16, 2008

We're not taking a family vacation this summer but that doesn't mean we can't "get away". Day trips can be just like a vacation but a heck of a lot less expensive and stressful. One that we have already done this summer is a trip to the Bowmanville Zoo . We decided to make this an all day/no-car trip so Gigi and I hit the road super early (okay - it was 10am). And when I say "road" I mean the Read more...

Welcome to Gigi's House

by Katie

July 07, 2008

It seems that any time Gigi is stuck inside the apartment, we end up building a fort of some shape or kind. It can be the couch cushion fort (a classic) , the always popular dining chairs with bedspread and laundry pegs, or her fold away tent with an addition or two. That tent (very similar to this one) is great for apartment living because when it's not in use, it folds flat with some velcro Read more...

Toronto Fringe Festival: KidsVenue

by Katie

July 04, 2008

This weekend is the Toronto Fringe Festival and many of the kid-friendly performances start today, with shows happening all weekend through to July 13th. All kids performances are at the KidsVenue theatre located at the Palmerston Library (560 Palmerston - north of Bloor, west of Bathurst). For show times and ticket information check out the KidsVenue page at the Toronto Fringe Festival website Read more...

Extracurricular preschool activities

by Katie

June 16, 2008

Gigi may not be starting her official preschool until September, but I'm always on the lookout for organized activities where she can make friends and work on those all-important social skills. Seriously, the kid needs to work on networking so we can fill up that playdate calendar of hers. Starting July 15th at the North York Central Library and running until August 19th is a drop-in (no Read more...

The Rainy Day List

by Katie

June 10, 2008

Rainy days with a preschooler can be a special kind of hell for parents. Especially when your preschooler has boundless energy that the confines of a small apartment cannot exhaust. Oh wait; I guess we can assume that all preschoolers contain the same bottomless resource of fuel a fuel that if the world powers could harness, we would probably be able to solve the energy crisis. This week had a Read more...

Top Toronto spots to play when it's cold outside

by Katie

January 20, 2008

Holy crow the weather has been nasty lately. Between that Arctic freeze last week and the never-ending snow on the weekend, Winter is here and it's not going anywhere fast. Weather like this calls for indoor play and sometimes those much needed playdates are no where to be found, so I'm going to share our top five indoor spots to hit when there is preschooler energy to be burned, cabin-fever to Read more...