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2 bcparent.ca • back to school 2012

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bcparent.ca • back to school 2012 3

Back to School Issue 2012Volume 21, Number 5

Publisher/Executive Editor: Forrest Phillips

Editor: Geoffrey Legh

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Contributors: Christelle Agboka, Hilary Feldman,Sandra Gordon, Tiffany Doer Guerzon, HeideSmith Luedtke, Eileen McKenzieBC Parent is published 8 times per year. The Publisher reserves the right to omit advertisingwhich is judged to be in poor taste or which doesnot conform to the concept of this publication. Canadian Publications Mail Registration No.251836

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inside...

15 Public School vs Public SchoolWhich one is better for your child?

17 Classes & Programs Guide

4 Music for EveryoneWhat the Saint James Music Academy is doing

7 Reflections of MotherhoodWho is that mother in the mirror?

8 Is mom to thank for yourdieting dilemma?

10 Admitting mistake andmoving onCan good intentions justify bad behaviour?

12 Back to ImaginationThe importance of make believe

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BC Parent Newsmagazine


Walker, the current Executive Director. Alocal resident, mother of six, and communityadvocate, Walker is passionate about givingkids access to a quality musical education.She sees music as a way for children toexplore their own creativity and gain self-confidence—and points out that musictraining is associated with positive academic

outcomes. To put it bluntly, kids who learnmusic tend to be more successful at school.Most of the Academy’s students attend near-by Lord Strathcona Elementary, which offersa junior music program with recorder, uku -lele, and choir. Kids come through referralsfrom school, music teachers, and AboriginalYouth Workers. About 17% of the students

usic lessons can be out of reachfor many children. Whether it’sthe cost or accessibility, only

some kids get the benefit of a musical edu-cation. In these days of school budget cuts,the problem is compounded by shrinkingresources for band and orchestra classes.However, the Saint James Music Academyis bringing music to children in Vancouver’sDown town East Side.

Only two blocks from the notorious hubat Hastings and Main, smiling children makebeautiful music. The afterschool program isboth rigorous and inclusive. Qualified instruc-tors teach a huge range of classes, includingsinging, piano, violin, viola, cello, doublebass, guitar, flute, clarinet, and percussion.Each child receives individual music lessonswith their chosen instrument, plus classes inchoir, orchestra, Orff, Kodaly, and theory.Currently about 100 students attend fromSeptember to June, and classes are offered 3days a week. The senior program runs for 5hours each week, spread across two days.

The Academy was founded by Kathryn

are aboriginal, and this is a very importantaspect of the program.

Saint James Anglican Church providesplenty of free space, and the Academymakes good use of every square centimetre.Students are escorted from school by volun-teers. The busy afternoon starts with ahealthy snack for the ravenous horde ofhappy children. Board games and craftskeep some students occupied between theirprograms, along with homework tutoringand mentorship. On Tuesdays, some chil-dren benefit from additional music therapyand African drumming.

The program extends far beyond thewalls of the Academy. Each child receives aninstrument to practice at home—includingthose students who are offered piano les-sons. Walker works hard to match eachchild to an instrument, focusing on her goalof finding individual aptitudes, interests,and passions. She also arranges opportuni-ties for students to attend recitals, sympho-ny orchestra concerts, and operas, so thechildren can experience professional per-

by Hilary FeldmanPhotos by Chris Loh

Only two blocks from thenotorious hub at Hastings

and Main, smiling childrenmake beautiful music.


formances. The Pacific Baroque Orchestragives a free concert every term, along withoffering master classes that allow studentsto see and work with high-level musicians.

The Academy focuses on a foundationof classical music, and the children can fol-low other directions from this core educa-tion. Every student takes part in the choir,as Walker recognizes the value of childrenlearning to work and play in groups. Thechoirs perform more popular music. Withshy smiles across their faces, the senior choirsings “What a Wonderful World” in three-part harmony, followed by an a capella ver-sion of “Lean on Me.” The effect is ethereal,as pure children’s voices float up to the highchurch rafters, accompanied by the slightlymusty odour of incense.

For children keen to take Royal Con -servatory of Music exams, the Academy willpay for the fee. There are some very giftedkids in the program. One new flute studentshows particular talent since settling on thisinstrument after trying several others.Walk er hopes to expand the available fund-ing and eventually offer music scholarshipsfor students to enter university. Anothergoal is organizing an outreach program forlocal preschools, to get music started earlythrough funding from the Academy.

The advisory board is enthusiastic to ex -pand the program’s scope. Board membersinclude past and present teachers and musicprofessionals, who put their expertise towarddeveloping a clear musical curriculum anddirection for the expanding orchestra. Of

course, money is an issue. The Academy isalways looking for donors, hoping to buildup their base of supporters that includescorporations, foundations, grants, and indi-viduals. The choir and chamber group per-form for certain public and privatefunctions to raise the Academy’s profile.

Walker is the heart of the Academy. Shenever stops moving, and her ready smilewelcomes everyone. She knows every childand parent, and makes sure everyone iswhere they need to be. Walker finds snacksfor hungry stragglers and makes the time tohug a parent having a rough day, while find-ing music stands for the orchestra. Her pos-itive energy is a huge part of the program,and she works from home to accomplishmuch of the necessary fundraising, grant-writing, and overall organizing. The musicteachers are another draw of the program.They hold the kids to a high level of atten-tion and performance, while remainingcalm, patient, and focused.

The Saint James Music Academy isclearly a labour of love, bringing hope andjoy to neighbourhood children. It’s also aplace for them to learn self-discipline andresponsibility and to find acceptance andfriendship. At the end of the day, Walker isthe last person to leave. She turns out thelights, makes sure everything is in order,and checks that every kid has been pickedup by a parent.

The Academy accepts donations of usedinstruments. In particular, they are alwayslooking for keyboards and good-quality

pianos and will pay for moving and tuning.Volunteers are also welcome, especially one-on-one attention for special needs studentson Tuesdays. Transportation is another bigneed—it is hard to coordinate getting stu-dents to and from concerts. A donated mini-bus or van would help with the challenge.To make a donation or find out more,please visit www.sjma.ca.


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patience and stamina you didn’t think you had. Thenwhen they’re older, you discover that no one can pushyour buttons like your own child. No one can makeyou angrier, more frustrated, or more guilt-ridden. Askids mature and try to find themselves, they challengeyou to define yourself and what you believe. Nothingmakes you rethink your long-held beliefs like beinggrilled and debated by your own adolescent.

Then there are the reflections of emotions fromyour own childhood. When your child isn’t pickedfor the team, becomes overweight, or acts just asstubborn as you once did, the feelings of your owninner child surge to the surface. It’s hard to resist giv-ing into your own unresolved issues instead of beingthe grown-up and helping your kid through theirs.

In the rear-view mirror is your past, including allthe mistakes you made as a child. Living through thebumps and bruises of growing up is even morepainful the second time because you love them somuch, and have so little control. You watch, wringingyour hands from the sidelines, as your children dothe exact opposite of what you would have them do.But all you can do is love them, and hope that yourbest was enough.

Motherhood redefines you as you grow alongsideyour children. It chips and cuts away at you, shatter-ing your image of your previous self until finally, youbegin to see in the mirror the woman, and mother,you were meant to be

aising children is like having a mirrorheld up in front of you. In the beginning,it’s a funhouse mirror, making you look

larger than life, even godlike. You are the powerfulHealer of All Hurts, Granter of Privileges, andBanisher of Monsters that lurk in closets and under-neath beds. You are Queen of your child’s world—forthe moment.

Then that funhouse mirror turns on you andreflects a distorted version of yourself: the WorstMother in the World. All you can see is the womanwho lost her temper, broke a promise, or just didn’tlive up to her child’s or her own expectations.

As your children age, you find yourself standingbefore a magnifying mirror. Your kids are quick topoint out your faults, both physical and otherwise.They will talk about the way you furrow your browwhen you are angry, or make fun of the favoritephrase you repeat too often. They will let you knowthat your singing voice is off-key and tell you thatyour outfit embarrasses them. Kids don’t miss any-thing, and immediately pick up on any discrepan-cies—no matter how small—in what you told themfrom one day to the next.

Sometimes the woman in the mirror is one youdon’t recognize. Children can push you to yourabsolute limits. When they are little, it’s mostly phys-ical: the sleep deprivation, colic, and the TerribleTwos. You are forced to dig deep and find reserves of

Reflections of MotherhoodBy Tiffany Doerr Guerzon

R


M aybe you have your mother’s eyes, herlaugh, or her neatness streak. But did youever wonder if you inherited your moth-

er’s wacky weight-loss tendencies, such as her pen-chant for flitting from one fad diet to another? It’spossible.

“When it comes to dieting, mothers are powerfulrole models,” says Leann Birch, Ph.D., distinguishedprofessor of human development at PennsylvaniaState University. In a study in The Journal of the Amer -ic an Dietetic Association, Birch studied 197 6-year-oldgirls and their parents and asked the girls questionsabout dieting, weight control, and body shape. Thestudy found that the girls whose mothers were diet-ing were more than twice as likely to have ideas aboutdieting, even at the tender age of 6. “For some girls,dieting meant eating more fruits and vegetables.Others said that it meant cooking for the kids but noteating for yourself, or not eating at all,” says Birch.

The fact that mothers are the family’s eating trend -setters isn’t new. Other studies involving mothersand older daughters have shown similar results.“Mothers who are highly restrained chronic dieterstend to have teenage daughters who are more likelyto do the same,” Birch says.

To break the negative bonds of your dieting line-age and avoid passing them onto your kids, here’sfood for thought.

Break the CycleIf your mother was a fad or otherwise dysfunctionaldieter, be aware that you may have a tough timeresisting the urge to follow suit—even now. “Duringyour formative years, there’s a good chance yourmother’s wayward dieting ideas—such as needing tostarve yourself to lose weight—got into your hard-wiring,” says Philip R. Costanzo, Ph.D., professor ofpsychology at Duke University in Durham, North

Is mom to thank for your dietingdilemma?

By Sandra Gordon

When it comes to dieting, mothers are powerful role models.


Carolina. Maybe you even began dieting like yourmom when you were just a kid, which makes it eventougher to change your ways. “It’s difficult to alterearly habits,” says Costanzo. But just being awarethat you may be patterning your eating habits afterMom can help you break the cycle, Costanzo says. Tolose weight sensibly, consider also consulting a regis-tered dietitian (to find one in your area, visit www.eatright.org) or joining an reputable organizationsuch as Weight Watchers.

Be a Role ModelMeanwhile, if you have a daughter yourself, keep inmind that your weight-loss efforts have an impact onher. “It’s important to be aware of the modeling con-cept. If you’re a parent, you’re being watched,” saysBirch. But if you lose weight sensibly by watchingportion sizes, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables,and not being too restrictive about your diet, there’s agood chance your daughter will be less likely to fallinto the same diet traps perhaps you once did. Still,the pressure to be thin is exploding these daysbecause of messages from the media. “Kids are wellaware, even as kindergartners and first graders, who isfat, who is thin and that thin is considered better,”says Joan Chrisler, Ph.D., professor of psychology atConnecticut College in New London.

That concept hit home one summer when my then6-year-old daughter, Rebecca, refused to wear shorts.Pants were her mainstay throughout the first grade.But enough was enough. It was July by then and swel-tering in our 40-year-old, non-air-conditioned home.

Still, no matter how much I cajoled, pleaded anddemanded, Rebecca, who is as medium as they come,wouldn’t change into shorts. Was this just a powerstruggle or a kooky clothing fetish? I wish. “My legsare too chubby,” Rebecca tearfully confessed. They’reweren’t, but Rebecca couldn’t be convinced and thepants stayed on. Thinking back, I realized then thatRebecca had been covering her legs since preschool.When she was 4, for example, she wore the same,mid-calf “favorite” dress every day that I’d wash atnight, shrugging her behavior off as a harmless cloth-ing jag. She later told me that compared to her skin-ny friend, Grace, she felt big. It didn’t help thatRebecca was being scrutinized by her eagle-eye, fel-low preschoolers. One day, for example, whenRebecca wore a cute, gathered shirt, Grace, whosemother had just given birth, told Rebecca that theshirt made her look “pregnant.”

Body image issues start early and they aren’t just agirl thing. “We’re starting to see them in boys as wellas girls,” Chrisler says. Besides trying to be the bestdiet role model that you can be for your kids, there’smore you can do to help them feel good about theirself-image no matter what their size.

• Emphasize that everybody is different. “If kids canlearn not to be critical of others, then maybe theywill be less critical of themselves,” Chrisler says. Soif you overhear your kids or your kid’s friends callother kids or family members “fat,” stress matter-of-factly that we come in all shapes and sizes.

• Pick sports that focus on power. The message weoften send boys is that bodies can help you dothings, like kick, run and jump. “For girls, the mes-sage is typically that bodies are ornamental,” saysChrisler. Although bodies really serve both purpos-es, she suggests selecting at least one after-schoolactivity that stresses the instrumental, such as soc-cer, softball, basketball, tennis, and swimming.“Ballet and gymnastics are okay to have in the mix,but keep in mind that there’s a certain focus onhow you look in a leotard,” Chrisler says.

• Don’t tease about appearance. Resist the urge tosay things like: “Oh, your chubby legs are so cute,”or pat your child’s tummy. And caution others,such as your husband and your child’s grandpar-ents, to avoid those seemingly harmless commentsand gestures as well. Children can read into themand turn them into negative self-talk.

• Don’t criticize your own body. Try not to talkabout your own weight in front of your daughter orcompare yourself to other women. “Even saying toyour husband, ‘Do I look fat in this dress?’ canmake an impression on your child,” says Chrisler.Also, don’t brush off well wishes. “Saying thank youand accepting them sends the message to yourdaughter that you think you’re worthy of compli-ments and that you feel good about your body andso should she about hers.”

• Testing, testing. Recognize that if your child insiststhat she’s flawed—that her legs really are the chub-biest legs of anybody’s in the whole school—she’sprobably testing you. React with a positive, consis-tent message, such as “You look great in those shortsand your legs are so strong,” Chrisler says.In fact, I’ve been intuitively incorporating a lot of

these tips into my own routine over the past fouryears and Rebecca, now 10, has come a long way. Shestill wears somewhat of a uniform to school, onlynow it’s jeans and big T shirts. But she’s on the swimteam and seems to appreciate her strong, “medium”status. Still, every now and then, I realize that bolster-ing her body image is an ongoing effort and thatwe’re far from out of the woods. When we orderedRebecca’s backpack for the new school year last fall,for example, she made me send the first one back thatshe selected from the Internet. Why? Sigh. “It makesme look fat when I carry it,” Rebecca said.

Sandra Gordon is a mom of two who writes about parenting, health, nutri-tion and baby products for books, national magazines and Websites. Visit Sandraat www.sandrajgordon.com.

It was July by then, and

sweltering. Still, nomatter how much

I cajoled, pleadedand demanded, 6-year old Rebeccawouldn’t change

into shorts. “My legsare too chubby,”

she tearfully confessed.


pened. Unfortunately the best of intentionscan’t undo the damage we’ve done.

To make matters worse, justifying ourerrors leads us to see what we believe, Tavriscautions. If you believe your husband startsarguments, or fear he dislikes your body,you’ll unconsciously seek evidence you’reright. This “confirmation bias” justifies yourprevious actions (like being argumentativeand perceiving criticism where none exists)and sets you up for repeating the same oldmistakes.

The High Prize of AdmissionYou may fear you’ll feel like a failure or sub-ject yourself to hostile criticism when youadmit missteps. But confession can haveboth personal and relationship benefits.“Acknowledging our mistakes allows us tomove past blame and judgment and on tolearning and growth,” says Donna Marzo,Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and life coach

I f you’ve ever forgotten to pay the phonebill, cheated on your diet, missed adeadline, or snapped at your kids for

acting like kids, you’re in good company.We all make mistakes. Not ready to admityours? I’m not surprised.

Even when our errors are obvious, we’relikely to deny, rationalize and justify them,says Carol Tavris, PhD, social psychologistand co-author of Mistakes Were Made (ButNot By Me): Why We Justify Foolish Beliefs,Bad Decisions, and Hurtful Acts (Harcourt).Several cognitive tricks ensure we’re protect-ed from the unpleasant awareness of ourfailings. For starters, we feel lousy when ourbehavior conflicts with our beliefs. Psycho -logists call this “cognitive dissonance.” Be -cause growling at the school principal is outof line with our self-concepts as capable,kind, and respectful people, it’s hard to admitwe messed up, says Tavris. We’re more likelyto justify our actions—“I was just blowing

off steam,” or “He knows I respect him.”Similarly, when caught in a lie, we’re moreapt to deny it than apologize.

We mean well. So it’s common to usegood intentions to justify bad behavior.

When we push our children to excel aca-demically and they wind up overwhelmedand exhausted, we reason “I just want themto have the opportunities I didn’t.” We mayfail to notice our errors or forget thementirely, because we’re focused on what wewanted to do, not on what actually hap-

Admitting mistakes and movingon

For starters, we feel lousywhen our behavior conflicts

with our beliefs. Psychologistscall this “cognitive

dissonance.”

by Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D.


Moving On UpWhen you’re ready to move on, follow thesesteps to make a smart self-improvement.

First, identify how you want things to bedifferent. Be specific. It isn’t enough to say“I want to be financially independent,”Marzo says. You have to decide exactly whatthat means (perhaps you’ll pay all of yourbills with $200 left over for saving eachmonth).

Next, identify the specific steps to getthere. If your goal seems overwhelming,zero in on small, concrete actions you cantake. Giving up your daily grande vanillacappuccino might be the first step down theroad to financial freedom. Early successesencourage persistence.

Seek support from friends and family.Making your goals known reinforces yourcommitment and keeps you accountable.Tell coworkers you’ve decided to stop gos-siping, and enlist their support. Ask themnot to include you in their own gossip ses-sions and to bring lapses to your attention.You may inspire friends to make their ownplans for improvement.

Above all, be patient with yourself. “Weare going to make mistakes,” Marzo says.“What we learn about ourselves and howwe respond to those situations is what mat-ters.”

at District Wellness Center in Washington,D.C. If you’re angry with yourself becauseyou stayed in a lousy relationship too long,ask “What did I learn about myself? Whatdid I learn about the kind of relationship Iwant?” Focus on what you’ll do differentlynext time. “If we want things to be differ-ent, we have to be different,” says Marzo.

Facing failures directly also frees up yourmental and emotional energy. All the effortthat went into shielding yourself from yourown criticism can be channeled into livingyour best life. Admitting mistakes can beliberating.

Confession is truly a win-win approach.When you take ownership of your mistakes,you allow other people—including yourkids—to get close to you. You grant thempermission to be imperfect, too. And thatmeans they can make mistakes and learnfrom them, instead of hiding their errors oravoiding challenges. Satisfying relationshipsare built on a foundation of genuineness andcompassion, and fessing up demonstrates both.Relationships grow deeper and more nur-turing when you get real and make amends.

Avoid Self-SabotageDon’t get caught up in judgment mode.Labeling yourself a loser, beating yourselfup physically or emotionally, and gettingstuck in the past aren’t helpful. The lan-guage you use to describe your experiencescan be revealing, Marzo says. Watch out forextreme statements like “I’m a financial fail-ure.” These overgeneralizations prevent pro -gress. Adopt the language of learning andtell yourself “I will spend money wisely.”Stay positive.

If your errors reflect a chronic problem,seek information and support. There areresources available to help those strugglingwith addictions, anger, overspending, andeating disorders. These problems require alot more than will power to overcome: goingit alone sets you up for failure. Althoughinformation won’t change you, it can helpyou change yourself.

Also, admit your mistakes to thoseyou’ve harmed and allow them to expresstheir hurt. Don’t give a lengthy explanationof your behavior, doing so undermines yourapology. Be brief, direct and sincere. Thankthe other person for listening and ask forforgiveness. If it’s offered, allow yourself toaccept it and let go.

Face your failures with gentleness andcompassion.

Treat yourself like a treasured friend. Moms often treat others with much moregenerosity and understanding than theygive themselves, says Marzo. Speak kindlyto yourself and be patient. You’re a workin progress.

Formally forgive yourself. Don’t try to forgive yourself for being human, forgivespecific transgressions instead. Write themdown. Write “I forgive myself for losing mytemper in the meeting,” then let go of hurtand anger.

Pay real penance. Misery may feel like justpunishment, but it doesn’t fix anything.Make amends in a tangible way. Put in extrahours at work. Volunteer. You (probably)can’t undo your error, but real penancegets you moving in the right direction.

Self-Care 101


M ake playtime fun for everyone. Experiencethe joy of imagination. Unplug those techdevices and instead, connect to imagina-

tion games. Recent research shows young children placing a

greater dependency on technology for play. I had asuspicion that their creative abilities were being sti-fled, but when I heard my five year old student an -nounce to her stunned mother, “Oh Mommy, don’tbe silly. There’s no such thing as make-believe. Howcan you see something that isn’t there?” I decided totake action and share these drama-inspired activities.You and your kids can share good times by playing,connecting, and laughing. Here are some ideas de -signed to impress everyone; even those who mightneed a little extra encouragement.

Every September, as a Drama teacher I faced thechallenge of turning skeptics into believers usingsomething I called “Mind Magic.” With my studentswatching intently, I’d place an imaginary cubebetween my forefinger and thumb, pass it from onehand to the other, and, with unquestioning confi-dence, say, “Do you see it?”

“See what?” said the chief cynic. “I don’t see any-thing.”

“That’s because you don’t have mind magic,” I said.“Watch while I turn it into something special.” Usingmy imagination, I tossed it into the air, watched it land,and mimed handling my treasure with great enthusi-asm. Sometimes it was something small, like enjoyingthe perfume of a lush rose complete with a prickly stem,or something larger, like mounting a motorcycle andtaking it for a spin.

Unfailingly, the skeptics engaged in the guessinggame. Sooner, rather that later, they begged, “It’s myturn. I guessed it first.” I handed over the “magic cube”to the one who guessed it first, and the game wouldbegin. And yes, I converted every one of them.

Altering the traditional game of “I Spy” is anotheridea. Instead of saying, “I spy with my little eye, some-thing that is blue...” try changing it to, “I spy with mylittle eye something that could be a dancer (bare treetrunks and their twisting dramatic branches) or, is likesomething that could be found in Ancient Egypt (apyramid roof structure on a building).

Ever had the luxury of lying on fresh green grass on asummer’s day and staring up at cotton candy clouds?With clouds slowly drifting by, an active imaginationsees them morphing into different objects, shapes, crea-tures, people, and animals. Perhaps those clouds could

Back to

By Eileen Mackenzie

You and your kids canshare good times by playing,connecting, andlaughing.

Imaginativegames the

whole familywill enjoy

Imagination


Suddenly the bus stopped. Our five year old driver,using a mini hoop as her steering wheel, sat motion-less, solemnly staring straight ahead. “Lily, what’swrong?” I said, “How come we’re not moving?”

She sighed, turned her head, and said, “Can’t yousee I’m waiting for the red light?” Such is the powerof imaginative play.

My most satisfying time using teddy bear pup-petry evolved into Saturday Night Showtime whenvisiting my Irish cousins. Crouched down behind thesofa, their children and I improvised a condensedversion of Shakespeare’s Midsummer Nights Dream.We had the family roaring with laughter. (To getyounger ones actively involved, I would recommendusing their favorite rhymes or storybooks—saveShakespeare for the older ones.)

With just a little more effort and energy, youcould make ordinary days extraordinary. Spicing upyour day with more playfulness and whimsy isn’t rock-et science, it’s mind magic. Ready to have fun?

Eileen Mackenzie is a retired Burnaby Visual and Performing Arts teacherwith a Master of Education degree (SFU 1998) specializing in Fine Arts educa-tion. She is also a writer, artist, and dancer who champions the creative spirit.She creates and teaches children’s art courses for children aged 3–8, at her localcommunity centre.

be story starters bringing new challenges for the phrase,“Once upon a time....” Enjoy the possibilities.

When my son was young, we often played “IceCream Shop” at our local park. Curious childrenwould stop swinging and sliding after watching ourscenario where, positioned behind a make-believecounter, I asked my son, “What flavor, sir? How manyscoops? That’s two dollars, please.” I piled imaginaryscoops, one of top of the other, and carefully handedhim the cone. My son paid with pretend money mut-tering,”The price of things these days...” The childbehind him nodded, but was eager to sample the icecream and, with some hesitation, asked, “Can I havea strawberry triple decker?” I always obliged, but bythen my son had taken over ownership of the shopand I was sent to the back of the line.

To vary it up, we played “Hot Dog Vendor.” Again,with great glee, we piled the condiments onto our“hot dogs,” slurped the slippery juices, munched andswallowed until our tummies were full. Of course weinvited those envious children to join the feast.

Now that I am retired, I teach Teddy Bear Pup petryat our community centre. One afternoon, with chairsarranged bus-like, we played Bus Stop. We were hav-ing great fun, getting on and off the bus and chang-ing characters each time we boarded.

We improvised acondensed version

of Shakespeare’sMidsummer Nights

Dream. We had thefamily roaring with laughter.

Offering a full Montessoricurriculum taught by highly qualified and

passionate educators. Complimented with

Yoga, Music and French.

Pre school and all day Kindergarten. Located

in West Point Grey.

SOME SPACES STILL AVAILABLE.CALL FOR A TOUR OF OUR FACILITY

Tel 604 222 1114www.sunfloweracademy.com

Montessori and Creative Arts School


Private School Benefits:• Increased parental involvement in children’s

education, at home and within schoolcommunity

• Class sizes are usually smaller; one-on-onetime with students has been proven toimprove academic achievement

• Private schools often have a good reputa-tion in global higher education institu-tions, with many schools boasting a 100per cent rate of students attending theirfirst choice university

• The private school system provides variouseducational options, including internation-al exchange programs, advanced placement(AP) or international baccalaureate (IB);faith-based schools— Christian, Jewish,Muslim; coed or single gender schools;and special needs schools

• Excellent extracurricular activities or specialprograms—e.g., arts, sports, clubs, music

• Dedicated and well-trained teachers, manywith advanced degrees

• Not run by tax dollars, thus more freedomin curriculum design and general gover-nance

• Larger student populations in publicschools may lead to decreased supervisionand more bullying issues

• Public schools may have more bureaucra-cy, leading to less innovation in programoffering, less positive change at the insti-

How to Choose the Best School for Your ChildChoosing a school for your child is a daunt-ing, even stress-inducing task. With so manychoices—small school or large school, schoolof the arts or a technology-focused school,public school or private—it’s easy to defaultto the most convenient (read: geographical-ly closest) choice.

Our Kids Private Schools Expo happeningin Vancouver, BC on November 11 is a greatopportunity for parents to explore privateand independent schools, educational philo -sophies and special programs. Agatha Sta -wicki, Publisher of Our Kids Private SchoolsExpo, narrows down a very broad field byhighlighting the benefits of the two majoreducational paths: private schools and pub-lic schools.

Private Schools vs. Public Schools: Which One is Better for Your Child?

Let us help you narrow down the plethora of schoolchoices by taking a closer look at private schools vs.public schools and tackling the debate.

By Christelle Agboka

All Childrenshould Have a Complete

Eye Exam by Age 3

DR. DELLA CHOW

2589 WEST BROADWAY (KITSILANO)

OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY

Our child friendly office has a great kids play area!

742.3937WWW.DELLAOPTIQUE.COM


tutional level and decreased parental in -fluence on a child’s educational progressand disciplinary measures

• Children who are less assertive, or differ-ent, may miss out on social and leadershipopportunities within larger public schools

• Frequently overcrowded schools and class -rooms in public schools may decrease astudent’s chance of getting extra attentionand academic support as needed

• Many private schools meet or exceed pro -vincial education standards, according toMichael Zwaagstra, co-author of the bookWhat’s Wrong with Our Schools and HowWe Can Fix Them. Private schools that areincluded in the rankings often score highin the Fraser Institute’s report cards meas-uring academic achievement among allschool types that take standardized tests.

Public School Benefits:• Cost-effective; public school is free, paid

for by Canadians’ tax dollars• Like private schools, some public schools

offer specialized courses or programs—e.g., math and science, special needs andthe arts

• Public schools don’t usually require pro -spec tive students to undergo entrance in -terviews or tests in order to attend theschool, so students may be exposed to awider range of people

• Students in public schools are typicallygroup ed according to geographical area,which can be an advantage in terms ofout-of-school socializing

• Typically, teachers in North American pub -lic schools must have a bachelor’s degreeas well as federal, state or provincial certi-fication

• Public schools are overseen by provincialgovernments and local school boards(many private schools that receive govern-ment funding or grant credits for theprovincial high school diploma are alsorequired to abide by provincial standards,but families must exercise due diligenceand do research on each school)

• Top public schools may have a wide rangeof resources and cutting-edge equipment

• Some private schools may be more selec-tive than public schools and can be stress-ful to get into

• Although there are more ways and financial

aid to manage the costs of private school,private schools may not be affordable forsome families.

Final Verdict:Whether you choose a public school or aprivate school, most critical is finding aschool that will provide your child a solideducational foundation for future academ-ic, career and personal success. Ensure thatthe school emphasizes well-qualified teach-ers and smaller class sizes that cater best tostudents’ unique academic and personalstrengths and weaknesses.

Finally, realize that there are good publicschools and good private schools. In the endwhat matters is choosing a school that bestsuits your child, as well as the entire family.Once you have done your research, relax!No decision is irreversible, and if the schoolturns out to be the wrong fit—geographi-cally, financially, academically or other-wise—there are plenty more schools tochoose from.

To get more information about Our KidsExpo visit www.ourkids.net

Have your next issue ofBC Parent delivered toyour inbox.

Visit bcparent.caand register foryour onlinedelivery.

The Sarah McLachlan School of Music (SoM) provides after-school music education, at no cost, to underserved and at risk children who

face challenging cultural, social and economic circumstances.

SoM is founded on a belief in the enriching power of music and the importance of creative community. We reach hundreds of young people every year (ages 7-17), providing them with a secure, nurturing and inspiring environment in which they can learn, practice, and connect with others. The Sarah McLachlanSchool of Music provides these students with the space and guidance they need to express themselves.

Music ignites their passion and energy, giving them confidence, motivation, perseverance, self-discipline, creative thinking and teamwork skills, all tool applicable to lifelong success.

To make a gift and impact the lives of young people, visit: www.sarahschoolofmusic.com or call: 604.709.4415

Director of Philanthropy: [email protected]


academicAcademic Advantage Tutoring604/439-1790www.schooliseasy.com

ADNC Neurofeedback Centre of BC604/730-9600www.neurofeedbackclinic.ca

Canada’s Best IndependentSchools—Our Kids Go To Schoolwww.ourkids.net

Googol Learning604/720-9377www.googolpower.com

Ho Math and Chess Learning Centre604/263-4321www.mathandchess.com

Language Tutors604/338-9598www.languagedesigns.ca

Mimic Baby Sign Languagewww.mimicbaby.com

MPM Math604/266-6762www.mpmmath.com

PD Plus Tutoring Service604/421-6101www.pdplustutors.com

The Reading Foundation604/222-2254www.readingfoundation.com

Silbury Education and Resource Centre604/261-4696www.silbury.caFull and part time education for gifted and creative learners K–8.

Sylvan Learning800/EDUCATE www.educate.com

TOC Education Resources604/603-7017www.toceducationresources.comChinese language and culture programfor 3 years to adult.

The Whole Dyslexic Society604/921-1084www.dyslexiacanada.com

danceA-Star Performing & Fine Arts Studio604/266-3053, Vancouverwww.astarstudio.com

Al Mozaico Flamenco Dance Academy604/671-9182, Vancouverwww.mozaicoflamenco.com

Anna Wyman School of Dance Arts604/926-6535, West Vancouver

The Arts Connection604/241-0141, Richmondwww.theartsconnection.ca

Arts Umbrella604/681-5268www.artsumbrella.com

The BrightStars Program604/662-8554, Vancouverwww.brightstars.caVancouver’s only professionalPerforming Arts program for youngchildren ages 1–13. Dance, sing andact to the melody of life. Classes runyear round.

Crystal Ballroom Dance School604/323-1238www.crystalballroom.ca

Dance Co604/736-3394, [email protected] Co provides unparalleled dancetraining for all ages and levels.Providing technique and performancewhile developing confidence and cre-ativity. Programs start throughout theyear, for more information visit ourwebsite: danceco.com

Dance Expressions604/574-2277, Surreywww.dancexp.com

Douglas Ballet Academy604/420-0204, Vancouverwww.douglasballet.homestead.com

Academy of International Dance Arts604/327-9313www.academyofinterna-tionaldancearts.com

Gabriela’s Movement Studio604/[email protected]

Goh Ballet Academy604/[email protected] institute of provincialchampions in the Junior, Intermediate& Senior levels as well as InternationalGold Medal Award Recipients. Wellbalanced curriculum, RAD examinations& extensive performance opportunities.

hz Ballet Classique604/299-9698, Burnabywww.balletclassique.com

Just for Kicks School of Dance604/596-4161, Surrey

North Shore Academy of Dance604/987-3814

Northwest Academy of Performing Arts604/306-7390www.NAPAdance.com

Pacific Dance Arts604/738-8575www.pacificdancearts.ca

classes &programs


Place des Arts Centre & Music Shool604/664-1636, Coquitlamwww.placedesarts.caPlace des Arts provides high qualityarts education for all ages and abilities.Over 40 music teachers offer privatelessons in a wide range of instruments.Ongoing lessons in music and dancerun Sep to Jun; session classes inmusic, dance, theatre, visual and liter-ary art run fall, winter and spring.www.placedesarts.ca

Port Moody School of Dance604/936-0966www.portmoodydance.com

Precision Dance Academy604/939-8277www.precisiondance.ca

Spotlight Dance Centre604/299-6111, Vancouver

Surrey Dance Centre604/599-9961www.surreydancecentre.com

The Landing Dance Centre604/325-8653www.thelandingdance.comThe Landing Dance Centre is a vibrantfacility focused on establishing and fos-tering a love for dance. It is the perfectplace to introduce young ones todance, take their training to the nextlevel, or just have fun!

Tri-City Dance Centre604/523-6868, Coquitlamwww.tricitydance.com

Unhinge Dance778/[email protected]

Vancouver Tap Dance Society604/253-0293www.vantapdance.bc.ca

Vancouver Academy of Dance604/231-8293www.vancouverdance.comVancouver Academy of Dance offerssummer dance camps in ballet,jazz/lyrical, tap, hip hop, acrobatics,ballroom and Chinese Dance at theirmain location in Richmond.

Westside Dance Centre Ltd604/736-1000www.westsidedance.caWe offer great classes in Tap, Jazz,Ballet and Hip hop for kids as youngas 3 years old, right up to adults.

specialtyBricks 4 Kidz778/822-5672www.bricks4kidz.com/vancouverBricks 4 Kidz® provides programs thatinspire kids to learn about architecture,engineering and design concepts whilehaving fun building with LEGO®bricks. Now offering After SchoolEnrichment Classes, Camps andBirthday Parties. Ages 5–12.

Christianne’s Lyceum of Literature and Art604/733-1356www.chistiannehayward.comThe Lyceum encourages young peopleto see themselves as readers, writersand artists as they engage with abstractideas and reflect on their own place insociety. Programs include: bookclubs,writers’ workshops, literature and artclasses and holiday and summer camps.

The Dizzy Whisk – Cooking Classesfor Kids778/998-3530 www.dizzywhisk.com

Kimiko’s Japanese Kitchen604/727-5331www.kimikoskitchen.com

Lil Divas Fitness778/322-7174www. lildivasfitness.com

Sewing with Frances604/433-1030www.francessewingschool.com

Vancouver Aquarium604/659-FISH www.visitvanaqua.orgFrom the Arctic to the Amazon,135,000 amazing creatures await youat the Vancouver Aquarium, includingBeluga whales, Sea otters, sharks and

dolphins. Visit our brand new interac-tive ‘Canada’s Arctic’ gallery exploringclimate change in the north, andimmerse your senses in WesternCanada’s only 4-D Experience theatre.Plus, get a personal experience withyour favourite animals in our AnimalEncounters program.

musicAllegro Music School Inc.604/327-7765, Vancouver

Arbutus Music Academy604/736-8767www.arbutusmusicacademy.com Our teachers are dedicated to offeringthe highest level of music instructionto students of all ages and levels. Lessons are available in Violin, Viola,Cello, Guitar, Piano, and Theory.RCM examination preparation andSuzuki method offered.

The Arts Connection604/241-0141, Richmondwww.theartsconnection.ca

BC Conservatory of Music604/299-2984 Burnabywww.bcmusic.ca

BC Registered Music Teachers Assn.604/733-5531

classes & programs guide

The BrightStars Program604/662-8554, Vancouverwww.brightstars.caLearning life long skills through thestudy of dance styles, music and move-ment. Classes range from 2 to 5 yrs.

Campos Music604/325-0480

Carillon Music604/591-1161www.carillonmusic.com

Clavimusic Piano Studios778/881-0329www.clavimusic.com

Colourstrings Music Studio604/730-5418, Vancouverwww.colourstringsvan.com

Delta Community Music School604/946-1280, Delta

Dominanta Music School604/767-0949, Burnabywww.dominanta.ca Quality private lessons with experi-enced instructors for all levels and ages:piano, guitar, violin, flute, voice andmore! RCM preparation, preschoolmusic (group), special programsthroughout the year.

Jean Lyons School of Music604/734-4019www.jeanlyonsmusic.com

Jumpstart Music & Movement604/777-7179www.jumpstartmusicandmovement.com

Langley Community Music School604/534-2848www.langleymusic.comA non-profit organization committedto providing the highest quality ofmusic education to people of all ages.

Long & McQuade Music EducationCentresVancouver 604/682-5215North Vancouver 604/986-3118Langley 604/532-8806 Surrey 604/588-9423Port Coquitlam 604/464-1118www. long-mcquade.comLong & McQuade’s Lesson Centres –comfortable studios, qualified instruc-tors, low rates, no registration fees, andlessons for every age, level and style.Guitar, piano, bass, drums, brass,woodwinds, orchestral strings & voice.Visit long-mcquade.com for the LowerMainland location near you.

Music for Young Children800/828-4334www.myc.comMusic for Young Children provides acomprehensive music program thatintegrates keyboard, singing, ear train-ing, sight reading, creative movement,rhythm, music theory and music com-position for children age 3–11.

Music Teachers on the Go778/882-7603info@musicteachersonthego.comwww.musicteachersonthego.com



Place des Artswe inspire the artist in everyone!

www.placedesarts.ca1120 Brunette Ave., Coquitlam | 604.664.1636

We offer classes and lessons in music, dance and the literary, visual and theatre arts for all ages and abilities.

Ongoing dance and music classes and lessons Sep 2012 - Jun 2013Fall, winter, spring session classes in the visual, literary & performing arts

1972 - 2012Celebrating 40 years of excellence in arts education

Drop by our open house on Sept 15, 2-4pm

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Core music skillsare developed through playfulactivities that captivate each

childs imagination.

All childrenare reading & writing basic

music by age 5.

An innovative, internationally reputable

program combining Kodaly-Orff-Dalcroze.

Violin lessons – 5 yrs


North Shore Music Academy604/925-3403, North Vancouver

Noteworthy Music604/270-3620, Richmond

O Music Studios604/321-1551www.omusicstudios.com

Oakridge Music Studio604/321-1551www.omusicstudios.com

Pacific Academy for Music604/944-0336, Port Coquitlamwww.musicinstructor.net

Pacific Piano Studio604/329-7290

Place des Arts Art Centre & Music School604/664-1636www.placedesarts.caPlace des Arts provides high qualityarts education for all ages and abilities.Over 40 music teachers offer privatelessons in a wide range of instruments.Ongoing lessons in music and dancerun Sep to Jun; session classes inmusic, dance, theatre, visual and liter-ary art run fall, winter and spring.Explore, express, create, be great! Placedes Arts offers high quality programs inmusic, visual arts, dance and drama forall ages, skill levels and interests.www.placedesarts.ca

Prussin Music604/736-3036www.prussinmusic.comPrussin Music has been serving familiessince 1985. We offer instrument sales,rentals, repairs & lessons. Our teachersare enthusiastic and active in Vancou -ver’s musical community. We have les-sons for all levels and all ages includingsummer camps and Suzuki classes.

Richmond CommunityMusic School604/272-5227, Richmondwww.richmondmusicschool.ca

School of Music and Dance604/951-3725, Surrey

Shadbolt Centre for the Arts604/291-6864, Burnaby

Staccato Music Studios604/421-3753www.staccatostudios.com

Steveston Music Centre604/271-3545, Steveston

Tom Lee Music604/685-8471, Vancouverwww.tomleemusic.ca

Vancouver Academy of Music604/734-2301www.vam.bc.ca Kodaly and Orff musicianship classes.Suzuki violin, viola, piano, cello, andflute. Piano group class (ages 4–9).Ballet (ages 31/2–18). RCM music his-

tory and theory. Private instruction inpiano, classical guitar, band andorchestral instruments.

The Violin ABC’s778/896-5729www.violin-abc.com

Western Conservatory of Music604/530-0317, White Rock

performing & visual artsThe Arts Connection604/241-0141, Richmondwww.theartsconnection.ca

Arts Umbrella604/681-5268www.artsumbrella.com

Artspace Children’s Arts Centrewww.artspaceforchildren.com

Bard on the Beachwww.bardonthebeach.org/about-bard-educationOur Young Shakespeareans workshopsdeliver an interactive fun-filled theatri-cal adventure. Professional actors leaddynamic workshops on the Bard stagesall summer.

Carousel Theatre for Young People604/669-3410www.carouseltheatre.caFun and inspiring acting classes for kids

and teens, aged 3–17. Weekend theatreschool classes on Granville Island.

CircusWest604/252-3679www.circuswest.com

E.J.S. School of Fine Arts604/596-4883

Gateway Theatre604/247-4975www.gatewaytheatre.com

In-Studio Art Classes/ Marta Roberson Smyth604/254-0961www.martademaria.comMentoring children from six to sixteenwith personalised instruction in smallgroups.

JCC Performing Arts School604/257-5111, Vancouver

Kids Only Acting Classes778/378-9103www.kidsonlyacting.com

Performing & Fine Arts Studio604/266-3053, N. Vancouver

Place des Arts604/664-1636www.placedesarts.caWith small classes, quality instructionand a welcoming environment, Placedes Arts Art Centre and Music Schooloffers arts education in a variety of dis-ciplines for all ages and abilities.


CELEBRATING 17 YEARS OF DANCE EXCELLENCE

Locations in Vancouver and Richmondwww.vancouverdance.com

2012-2013 DANCE PROGRAMSNOW ACCEPTING REGISTRATIONS

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Locationsin Vancouverand Richmond


Vancouver Youth Theatre604/877-0678www.vyt.ca

sportsAquaventures Swim Centre604/736-SWIMwww.aquaventuresswim.comAward-winning program in tropicalwarm water.

Atlantis Programs 604/874-6464, Vancouverwww.atlantisprograms.com

Cliffhanger604/874-2400, Vancouver604/526-2402, Coquitlamwww.cliffhangerclimbing.com

Club Aviva604/526-4464, Coquitlamwww.clubaviva.citysoup.ca

Dynamo Swim Club778/866-6604www.dynamoswimclub.net

The Edge Climbing Centre604/984-9080www.edgeclimbing.com

Jump! Gymnastics604/568-9690www.jumpgymnastics.ca


Rainbow Art School Ltd.604/[email protected]

Shadbolt Centre for the Arts604/291-6864, Burnaby

StageCoach Theatre Arts Schools1-877-78-STAGE (78243)www.stagecoachschools.ca Sing, Dance, Act! For 4–18 yr olds.The world’s largest part-time theatreschool network, with over 700 loca-tions worldwide in 10 countries! Weoffer classes in Singing, Dancing andDrama every weekend alongside theschool term as well as week long sum-mer camps. Schools locations through-out the Lower Mainland; VancouverEastside/ Westside, Richmond, Surrey,Langley, Coquitlam, Victoria.

StageCraft Theatre School604/267-SCTS (7287)[email protected] some ‘Glee’ in your life? Cometo StageCraft Theatre School and letyour talent shine!! Intensive yet funtraining in drama, singing and dancefor students ages 4–14, various locations.

Surrey Art Gallery604/501-5566

Vancouver Film School604/685-5808

WINWith hundreds of performances and exhibits,more than 50 thrilling rides & attractions andall that food, we dare you not to have fun atthe Fair at the PNE! Brand new this year: liveguest participation show Family Feud, inter -active Star Trek exhibit and so much more!

Visit bcparent.ca by August 20th to enter.

4 passes to the PNE

Let your Child Shine!

Visit www.brightstars.ca or call 604.725.1607Registering NOW for the Fall Session.

Whether JUST FOR FUN or the PERFORMER FOR LIFE, BrightStars

Performing Arts will give your child thebest in Dancing, Singing & Acting.

Classes from 1-13 years old registering now.

Children’s Classesin artist’s studio

withMarta Robertson Smyth

y DRAWING

y PAINTING

y CLAY SCULPTURE

CALL FOR INFORMATION

604-254-0961

www.martademaria.tumblr.com

pTennis for Kids

Community Tennis camps at Elm Park

� MINI HITTERS – ages 5-7� JUNIOR ACES – ages 8-12� TEEN ACES – ages 13-18

Sign up through Kerrisdale CC

604-257-8100EMAIL: [email protected]



m a r k e t p l a c e

Kids in Motion604/970-7945www.kids-inmotion.ca

Langley Gymnastics Foundation604/532-1022www.langleygymnastics.org

The Little Gym of Langley604/539-2543www.thelittlegym.com

Marina’s Swim School604/818-4650www.marinaswimschool.com Marina’s Swim School is offering swim lessonsfor kids and adults of all ages and abilities. We have the unique style and methods, semi-private teaching environment, tropical warmwater.

Maynard’s Pony Meadows604/261-1295

Midnight Cheer Athletics604/263-6436 Vancouverwww.midnightcheer.com

North Shore Equestrian Centre604/988-5131www.wecreateriders.com

Quantum Gymnastics Centre604/465-9293, Maple Ridgewww.quantumgym.com

RBL Basketball604/269-0221 or 604/253-5295www.RBLBasketball.caInstructional programs, leagues, holiday campsfor boys and girls from Kindergarten to Grade 10.

Richmond Gymnastics Association604/278-3614www.richmond gymnastics.com

Sportball604/688-3157www.sportball.ca Sportball is a non-competitive sports pro-gram for children 16 months to 12 years.Children are introduced to eight popularsports: soccer, hockey, football, basketball,baseball, volleyball, tennis and golf. Sportballoffers weekly programs, outdoor soccer,camps during school holidays, and birthdayparties. Come try a free trial class! See ourwebsite for a location near you.

Twin Rivers Equestrian Centre604/574-5481www.twinriversequestrian.comTwin Rivers is a great place for campers toimprove their riding skills and learn all abouthorses in an indoor riding facility. We invitecampers of all different levels of ability. Forfurther details and registration forms see ourwebsite.

UBC Gymnastics604/822-0207

Vancouver Phoenix Gymnastics604/737-7693www.phoenixgymnastics.com

White Rock Gymnastics604/542-0386www.whiterockgymnastics.com

TEL: 604-818-4650, 604-6712603

11111 HORSESHOE WAY, RICHMOND

• Specializing inBreastfeeding Bras,Clothing & Accessories

• Breast Feeding Needs• Breast Pump Rentals

& Sales1409 Commercial Drive

Vancouver, BC

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3673 W. 4th Ave � 604-736-1000

www.westsidedance.ca

[email protected] 604 355 71o6

Dr. Marisa Marciano Naturopathic Physician

� LICENSED NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR � B.A KINESIOLOGY

� CRANIOSACRAL & ACUPUNCTURE THERAPY� BOTANICAL MEDICINE NUTRITION &

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Free introductory consultations available by request.

2 or 3 days a week. Trained inhunter/jumper & dressage. Barn

in Southlands has riding ringwith jumps Close to trails andRiding Club All tack included.

CONTACT:[email protected]

or 604/644-5719

GENTLE HORSE FOR LEASE

INFANT CIRCUMCISION

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“YOUR CHILD’S CARE IS OUR FOCUS”

DR. ANITA GARTNERCertified Specialist in

Pediatric Dentistry

. . .COMMITTED TO . . .

� Building relationshipswith families

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219 – 179 DAVIE STREET, VANCOUVER

604-569-3669 www.tot2teendental.com

� One of the best Montessori Schools on the North Shore with over

30 years experience.

� Program begins at 3 years of age

� 4 year old extended day program

� All-day Montessori Kindergarten

� French, Mandarin and Musicclasses offered

TOURS AND CLASSROOM OBSERVATIONS AVAILABLE, CALL:

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www.gatehousemontessori.com

Montessori School

29 local, unique shops and services29 local, unique shops and services

find us on

Adventure Zone/Toddler Zone - Multi-level indoor play area, toddler play area and birthday partiesBeanstalk Bistro - Food and beverages for the whole familyCamelot Kids - Unique imaginative toys and parenting products from around the worldCanada Post Granville Island - Full service postal outlet - postage stamps, Xpresspost™, mailboxes, postcards, stationery and packing suppliesCIBC Bank Machine - Night deposit and fast cashCircuit Circus - Family entertainment centre, rides and gamesClownin' Around Magic Shop - Magic, clown and juggling supplies, novelties and pranks, clown/magician for hireCrystal Ark - Crystals, gems, crystal rocks, fossils, jewellery and booksFunky Little Shop - Gifts, jewellery and accessories for every princessGranville Island Toy Company - Quality toys including Playmobil, Lego, puzzles, games, educational toys, collectibles, dress-up and novelties for all agesHairloft/Princess Spa - Unisex kids hair salon specializing in baby’s first haircut, ear piercing, spa birthday parties for girls ages 3 - 12Half Time Sports - Team sports wear, licensed products, CanadianaHumpty Dumpty Books & Music - Books, music, CDs, videos, DVDs and postersI'm Impressed Paper Arts - The best selection of rubber stamps, inks, paper, glitter, stationery, scrapbook and craft supplies, classes

Just Imagine Dance - Bodywear and shoes for ballet, tap, jazz, musical theatre and gym, formal gowns and suits for boys and girls, wigs, masks and gifts for dancers Just Imagine Fun Clothing - Canada's best costumes for kids since 1988, theatrical makeup, crazy hats, funky glasses and costume props galoreKaboodles - Best selection of stuffed animals in town, dolls, Lego, puzzles, games, stickers, toys and hilarious greeting cards... for kids and silly adultsKaribou Kids - Clothing and accessories for kids to age 10Kites & Puppets - Kites, puppets, banners, flags, flying toys, windsocks Knotty Toys - Local and international wooden toys, rocking horses, wagons, ThomasLittle Treasures "on the go" - Rain and snow gear, swim and sun wear, accessoriesPedro's Organic Coffee House - Organic fair trade coffee, light mealsPotato Arts & Crafts - Art supplies and craft kitsRemote Control World - Remote control toys, flash toys and battery operated musical toysRibbit's Candy Corner - Novelty candy, popcorn and frozen treatsScallywags - Clothing and accessories for newborns and toddlers to age 5ShoeBox - Full service shoe store, infant to youthUmbrella Shop, The - High quality and one-of-a-kind umbrellasWoofles & Meowz - Toys, treats, clothing, accessories, supplies and baked goods for dogs and catsAdministration Office - Located on 3rd level

Backpacks, lunch kits, accessories, art supplies,clothes, shoes, dancewear, school outerwear and kids haircuts, too!

One of a kind finds for back for back to schoolto school

BC Parent Fall Issue

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Transcript of BC Parent Fall Issue