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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...

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.

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Five Canadian Spots That Will Wow a Preschooler

by Katie

June 23, 2009

Sudbury Nickel The Science Centre and Giant Nickel in Ontario
I think my daughter would be impressed with a nickel as big as the one in Sudbury not to mention, she would love a trip to the Science Centre where she could experience an indoor thunderstorm, built a LEGO robot, and walk among hundreds of butterflies at Science North. I just hope when she sees that nickel, she doesn't expect to find a piggy bank to match.

Dinosaur Provincial Park in Alberta
Why not bring the kid to the dinosaurs since Gigi loves everything dinosaur? It would blow her mind to see bones and fossils up close. Dinosaur Provinicial Park has family programs geared for kids too young to do the long hikes through the park, and this way they get to see up close different fossils from the Cretaceous Period (don't ask me when that was, I just know it was before I was born.)

The Corn Maze in Saskatchewan
Well if you are going to do a corn maze, it might as well be in Saskatchewan. In Regina there is a nine-acre corn maze plus smaller ones for the little kids and this place sounds like fun (obviously this is seasonal so check website for dates). Gigi went through her first corn maze this past Hallowe'en and I'm sure she'd love one as challenging as a Saskatchewan corn maze (because they grow them tall out there!)

Assiniboine Park in Manitoba
Located in Winnipeg, Assiniboine Park includes a zoo, conservatory, a sculpture garden, a train, and a statue of the famous Winnie the Pooh. Just seeing the statue of Winnie the Pooh in his home environment should score me some brownie points if I deliver this one to Gigi.

Hatley Park Castle in British Columbia
If I could deliver a real castle this summer to my princess-in-training, her head may explode. 100-year-old Hatley Castle is hidden among the trees and formal gardens in Hatley Park and while I doubt they have a dragon or moat on site, my princess will still approve.

So why all these great Canadian attractions that stretch from Toronto to Victoria? Because we are planning a road trip across Canada this summer and I plan for our family to visit as many of these "wow my preschooler" spots as possible. What would wow your preschooler between here and British Columbia? Please share - this momma needs all the help with her itinerary that she can get.

image source

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.

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)

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.

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!

What's Going on in Toronto This Weekend

by Katie

April 23, 2009

The Bata Shoe Museum has Saturday Shenanigans and Paint-a-Clog Sunday this weekend. Suitable for kids aged three to nine, Saturday Shenanigans includes a shoe-themed craft plus a chance to explore the exhibits and Paint-a-Clog Sunday invites children to paint a mini-clog and visit the galleries.

Earth Day Celebrations at Earl Bales Community Centre (4169 Bathurst, south of Sheppard) take place this Sunday from noon until 3pm and there is lots to do for all the members of the family. There will be Hike and Learn sessions about local wildlife, activities in the community centre and park, and craft & art sessions so kids can create their own masterpieces from recycled materials. There will also be environmetally friendly products on display and prizes to be won. Also at 1pm there will be a wild cat performance just to add a bit more to the wildlife. For more information, call 416 395-7873.

World in a Flapp! At the Living Arts Centre in Mississauga on Sunday there will be two performances of the family musical comedy about Major Conrad Flapps and his hilarious attempts to be airborne. Major Flapp travels the world and invites to audience to be his crew. There will be two afteroon performances at 1 and 3 pm. For more information call 905 306 6000.

Exploring the Geology of the Lower Don at Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum (Pottery Rd) Geologist Ed Freeman will lead a guided walk of the area where the family can learn about the river's history. The walk goes to the Sun brick works and back, leaving at 1:30 returning for 3pm. For more information call 416 396 2819 (this is a free activity and that includes free parking)

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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What's Going On This Weekend In Toronto

by Katie

April 09, 2009

There is lots to do this long weekend in Toronto and it looks like the weather is going to act like it is Spring time (if there is any more snow, I might just go more insane than I already am.) Have a great weekend everyone!

Visit Colborne Lodge in High Park to learn about Easter Traditions of years past. Children can decorate eggs and admired all the beautiful and intricate Ukraninan eggs on display.

Gibson House (Yonge right at North York Centre subway) is open this Saturday through Monday and is hosting demonstrations of 19th century cookery plus family activities in the hands-on discovery gallery.

Toronto Zoo's Annual Easter Egg-Stravaganza runs Friday through Sunday from 9:30 to 3:30 daily. Easter eggs are in the animal exhibit this weekend where Easter keepers will be giving talks and maybe the Easter Bunny might make an appearance or two. There also might be some chocolate treats to be found for those on the hunt.

Theatre Direct Canada presents Walking The Tightrope, an original play by Mike Kenny. This play tackles the difficult topic of a child dealing with loss and change. A young girl and her grandfather spend their annual visit together, but this year Nanny Queenie is no longer with them. Aimed at children five and up, this play runs until May 3rd at the Artscape Wychwood Barns (Christie & St. Clair St. West). Ticket and information available at the Theatre Direct Canada website.

The All About Pets Show will be going all weekend, Friday through Sunday at the International Centre (6900 Airport Road, Mississauga). This will probably make for a fun day, there will be a cat show, dogs demonstrating fly ball, a doggie fashion show (seriously), along with some birds and pet trainers who are there to talk pets. Also, do you know Maggie from the Cesar's commercials - the one that steals shoes? She will be there an available for photos. Kids under five are free.

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)

This Weekend in Toronto: Disney On Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy

by Katie

March 19, 2009

Last night I made one of those sacrifices that is easier for some parents than others, me being one of the others in this case. Gigi and I went to see Disney on Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy.

Don’t get me wrong, Gigi was totally overjoyed to be there and I will walk over hot coals, endure endless requests for the Sleeping Beauty dvd, all while eating glass for my daughter, so surviving a children’s show is essentially a cake walk. And I’ll also admit, once I got over my horror of spending an evening missing LOST, I have to say the show was really well done. Actually I scanned the crowd to gauge how other adults were fairing and I’d say the majority of them look genuinely happy to be there than those that were either texting/tweeting for mental support. For the record, the Rogers Centre has excellent reception.

Anyhow, the Worlds of Fantasy is a really fun live show that features the characters from Cars, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, and Tinker Bell and her posse from Pixie Hollow - all on skates. As you can see, the characters from Cars did not wear skates but yet they danced their little engines off without spinning out - I was impressed. Gigi was very familiar with all the characters from Cars (Mader is her favorite) and The Little Mermaid, plus I’ve used that Hakuna Matata clip from The Lion King to buy precious mommy minutes more times than I care to tally. Thankfully that song was in the show, and she loved hearing it. Plus she enjoyed the Pixie Hollow segment because hello! Pixie dust, flying fairies, and magic are the main components of my little girl’s dreams.

In fact, my daughter’s head pretty much exploded the minute the lights went down and I may have had tears well up in the old eye-holes when I saw how freakin’ excited she was to see Mickey and Minnie drive out in their car (yup, the classic Disney folk are there too).

Because the show has been so popular, they have added on an extra Toronto show at the Rogers Centre this Sunday, March 22nd, at 9:30 am and if you use the Ticketmaster site to purchase tickets, you can use the coupon code MOM** in the MC Promotion Box to purchase a four-pack of tickets for $44 (additional tickets with this promo will cost only $11 dollars each). So if you have a Disney fan or even ice skating fan (because these people can skate, in really cool costumes, and do things that defy gravity and logic), this is a really fun family show that will even make a over-active three year sit still and watch in complete awe. Because she did, and that blew my mind.

image: motherbumper

A big thank you to the nice people at Feld Entertainment and Mom Central who sent me and Gigi to the show last night.

What's Going On In Toronto: St. Patrick's Day & March Break edition

by Katie

March 12, 2009

St. Patrick's Day comes early in Toronto as the twenty-second annual Toronto St. Patrick's Day Parade kicks off at noon at Bloor and St. George (near old Varisity Stadium). The route goes down Bloor, south on Yonge, and ends at Nathan Philips Square. If you child is looking for favorite parade participants (horses? Toronto Police? Irish Dancers?) check out the Parade Lineup page so you know who will be where when. And remember, even though it's not actually St. Patrick's Day, wear something green - you wouldn't want to make a fashion faux-pas, would you?

Next week is my first official March Break as a parent, and I need to plan things to do in order to keep Gigi from breaking out in cabin fever induced tantrums. I think that the Spring Fling 2009 at Rogers Centre sounds like it could thoroughly exhaust any child, including my high-energy munchkin. Between March 16th to 20th, the Rogers Centre is transformed into an indoor fairground and entertainment centre. There will all the classic fairground rides – ferris wheel, merry go rounds, something called the Cobra Coaster, and all the other midway regulars, and of course: the midway food. Cotton candy anyone? For full details see their website

Another event at the Rogers Centre that Gigi and I will definitely be catching next week is Disney on Ice Worlds of Fantasy. It has Tinkerbell in it, so I’m fairly certain that Gigi’s head will explode when the show starts. Basically if you child likes any of the following movies, they will be happy campers: Cars, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, and anyone who has set foot in Pixie Hollow. I loved these ice shows when I was a child and expect Gigi will too. I just hope my daughter can make it through the show without trying to join Tink on the ice stage.

So what will you be doing this March Break? Want to have a playdate? I'm pretty serious with that last question ;)

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.
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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.
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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...

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...

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...

Inspiring gifts that you can only get in Toronto

by Katie

December 16, 2008

To steal a much abused phrase, the following gift ideas that I'm going to suggest for this holiday season, are the kind of gifts "that keep on giving" ( or at least, they keep on giving for the next year ) and they are also all specific to Toronto. Yes, I'm talking memberships to really interesting, fun, family-friendly or kid-friendly places in Toronto. The Royal Ontario Museum was the first 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...

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...

Toronto-centric kids books

by Katie

November 25, 2008

What better way to learn about Toronto than to read some kid-friendly books dedicated to the city. Toronto is a massive city, full of interesting places, natural wonders, and of course: hockey. Here are my top five picks for Toronto-centric kid books: The Lobster Kids' Guide to Exploring Toronto (Kids' City Explorer Series) is a Toronto Guide written for kids (okay,okay - parents are allowed 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...

Poppies: a symbol of Remembrance

by Katie

November 10, 2008

Tomorrow is Remembrance Day, the day to commemorate Canadians who were killed in the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War. Gigi often comments on the symbol of the day, those bright red felt poppies that adorn passerby's lapels. She wants to know why people wear the flowers and where can she get one for herself. Last week when she asked again about the poppies, I decided to do 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...

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...

What's going on this weekend in toronto

by Katie

October 24, 2008

Tomorrow it's Boo Barn 2008 at Riverdale Farm from 9:30 to 3:30. There is a Hallowe'en Hoot Boo Barn decorated for the kids to walk through, a pumpkin patch in the garden, and toasty warm treats in the outdoor wood-fired oven - which based on weather in recent days, is a good thing. There will also be pumpkin carvings at the picnic table area in the park, no need to pack your carving knife, 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...

What's going on this weekend in Toronto

by Katie

October 17, 2008

For anyone looking for a new bike, the Toronto International Bicycle Show is this Saturday from 10 am and 5 pm, at the Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place. The show promises a huge selection of bikes for sale plus there are competitions, challenges and shows for entertainment. Admission five dollars and I sense there will be lots of Pizza Pizza available on-site, which is a take-out 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...

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...

Nuit Blanche for the family

by Katie

October 03, 2008

This weekend in Toronto, it's all about contemporary art. Scotia Bank Nuit Blanche starts at 6:52 pm this Saturday and goes all night. Warmly embraced by the city after it's debut in 2006, this free, all-night celebration of contemporary art has now become an annual event in Toronto. I'm proud to live in a city that hosts this kind of amazing (and free) showcase for artists and performers. 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...

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

August 23, 2008

This weekend brings Buskerfest to the St. Lawrence Market sponsored by Epilepsy Toronto. The great thing about busker performances is how spontaneous the show can be - so needless to say, there is no set schedule - just a location and hours of performances. For more information on who is juggling, doing magic, and making the street their stage check out the Buskerfest website or just go on Read more...

What's going on this weekend in Toronto

by Katie

August 15, 2008

The CNE starts today - need I say more ? This is the Canadian National Exhibition's 130th year running which is pretty amazing in my books. Anyhow, the midway, horse shows, farm animals, cotton candy, those fluffy little doughnuts - oh yes, it starts TODAY and runs until Labour Day. The CNE is bittersweet because it does represent the end of Summer (did we even really have a summer this year?) Read more...

What's going on this weekend in Toronto

by Katie

August 08, 2008

Taste of the Danforth starts today and runs all weekend. I have yet to actually do this festival with a preschooler so this weekend will be the test. I think as long as I pack plenty of water and sunscreen in her backpack, we should survive just fine. The festival kicks off tonight at 6pm so I think our best bet will be to hit the Danforth when the festivities begin again at 12 noon over the Read more...

What's going on this weekend in Toronto

by Katie

August 01, 2008

CARIBANA ! I can never resist saying the word Caribana without using lots of gusto. This weekend is the Caribana Parade on Saturday and the De Caribana Lime Island Party at Olympic Island on Sunday . Both are all day events (10am to 6pm) with the parade starting at Exhibition Place and travelling west on Lakeshore Blvd. The De Caribana Lime Island Party will include a food competition, which Read more...

Weekend artiness

by Katie

July 25, 2008

Have you ever been to Unionville ? I fell in love with this Toronto suburb the first time a friend took me there for an afternoon pub lunch. The stretch lined with century homes, cafes, shops and boutiques on Main street are charming and it really feels like a village rather than a cookie-cutter suburb ( no offence to all those look-alike suburbs with big box conveniences but charming is not Read more...

What's going on in Toronto this weekend

by Katie

July 18, 2008

Summer in Toronto would not be complete without Caribana ! The official launch of Caribana Junior Carnival Parade is this Saturday (July 19th) at the Yorkgate Mall (northwest corner of Jane & Finch) and the events starts at noon. This year they expect over 1,600 kids in full Caribana costume - WOW - and this event is held to teach children the traditions of Mas and carnival. Read more...

Vive La France

by Katie

July 14, 2008

Happy Bastille Day! Does anyone feel like leading a revolution? Gigi does on a daily basis, but today we'll do it with a French flair which, for some reason, seems more stylish. Since we can't go to the France of Canada aka, La belle province du Quebec we'll find something to do en Francais right here in Toronto. Thankfully, it's fairly easy to find French programs for kids that are both fun Read more...

What's going on in Toronto this weekend

by Katie

July 11, 2008

Calling all baseball fans! This Saturday (July 12th) is a Jr. Jays Day. Starting two hours before the home game against the New York Yankees, Jr. Jays Saturdays Club has an outdoor program that includes running the bases, meet the mascots, face painting, and of course, exercising the ol' pitching arm in the cage. Check out the Jr. Jays Saturdays site for more information (ages 4 - 14). Over at Read more...

Three days in Toronto: day two

by Katie

July 09, 2008

High Park in the west end is one of the best outdoor places to hang out with children in Toronto. There are so many different activities for kids of all ages and it's easy to spend an entire day in the park, enjoy the great outdoors, and feel a bit of escape from the city. It's inexpensive, fun, and there should be something to suit everyone. I think the best way to do High Park is to arrive 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...

What's going on this Canada day

by Katie

June 30, 2008

Tomorrow is Canada Day happy 141st birthday Canada! Gigi has never actually made it to a Canada Day fireworks show before although they have woken her up in years pastthe curse of living a stone's throw from the launch site. This year I hope we can make it to the ones at Mel Lastman square, because I love a great fireworks display. During the day, our usual habit has been to have a playdate, and Read more...

Five awesome reasons to raise your kid in Toronto

by Katie

June 23, 2008

When I moved to Toronto eight years ago, I never expected to find myself getting married and raising a child in the big. Pre-baby, I was an IT consultant for a huge corporation which meant I worked strange hours and traveled near and far to different work sites, sometimes for months at a time. I can say with confidence that the best thing I got out of my job was my husband SB. And cheap tickets Read more...

What's going on this weekend in Toronto

by Katie

June 20, 2008

As usual there a number of kid-friendly activities going on around Toronto and here are a few Gigi and I might check out if we get ourselves in gear: The pride of Nova Scotia, the Bluenose II is visiting Toronto as part of the first Toronto Nautical Festival . It's not everyday you get to go onboard a schooner that is a totally easy to recognize Canadian symbol. The decks will be open to Read more...

What's going on this weekend in Toronto

by Katie

June 13, 2008

This weekend Gigi and I just might have to go check out Luminato , Toronto's Fesitval of Arts & Creativity. The festival opened last week and there are a few different family events happening over the coming weekend. CN Tower light show: Each night of Luminato the CN tower will be lit up differently. This weekend the tower will be blue and white, the traditional colours of Luminato, with a Read more...

Hanging out at the library

by Katie

June 04, 2008

If I was to assess my parenting skills, there a more than a few things I can think of that need work. Off the top of my head, I fail miserably on the no-tv before three idea, the never raising my voice pledge-to-self, and the no swearing pipe dream. Thankfully the reading to my child dream isn't on that list. My daughter's entire family has read to her from the get-go. During the early months, Read more...