Summer 2012

INSIDEIt’s not just play ............. 8

Sing with your children ................. 15Reggio in the classroom ..................... 19

Brought to you byHelping all children succeed for life

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summer 2012

270 Island community groups and organizations benefited

$681, 000 in GI FT grants

$27, 83 7 in community donations to charities through patronage

151 facilitated education and recreation workshops benefitting 16 , 779 families

142 family-friendly events supported

Countless warm fuzzies

Since Island Savings launched our

Growing Island Families Together (GIFT)

program in 2010, we have provided over

$681,000 to local organizations. GIFT

helps to provide childcare initiatives,

education, recreation programs and

much more. It’s all done with one goal

in mind: to improve the quality of life for

Island families.

If you have a program, event or initiative

that is helping to improve the quality of

life for Island families, we would love

to hear about it. GIFT applications

are available in branch and online.

Application deadlines for 2012 are

March 30 and August 31.

For more information on our extensive

community involvement, visit our

website at iscu.com/GIFT

Totals reflect community investment activities undertaken since the launch of the GIFT program in February 2010 to the end of September 2011.

Growing Island Families Together

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summer 2012

Cowichan KidsContents4 Introduction5 Message from Success By 6 Chair

Phil Kent

6 Playing it Safe with Dogs BC SPCA

8 It’s Not Just Play Laura Mills, Ph.D.

9 Home Made Finger Paints 10 Champions for Children 201214 Car Seat Safety Are you sure your

children are safe? Jen Shapka

15 Sing with your children Cari Burdett

16 Kids Corner – Colour Me17 Water Play to Keep you “Cool”

Johannah Knight

19 Reggio in the Classroom Kate Skye

20 Early Childhood Educators Go Viral 21 Gymnastics Fabulous Fitness and Fun

Karyne Bailey

22 Community Resource Guide

CONTACT US –WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU

Parents we would love to print your favourite photographs! For comments, information on submissions of articles, community events calendar or resource directory please contact Cindy at 748-5866 or email cindylsuccessby6@shaw.ca

Congratulations to the latest winners of the craft contest sponsored by staples

Business Depot. Be sure to enter for your chance to win

on page 4

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summer 2012

IntroductionCowichan Kids is published in the Cowichan Valley by Success By 6 and is distributed three times per year to over 22,000 businesses and households across the Cowichan Region. Additional copies can be found at many child and family agencies.

Cowichan Kids continues to support the vision that all children receive the nurturing and care they need in the first six years and that they are ready to learn and succeed as they enter school. The articles, information, photos and resources in this publication are from the Cowichan region and reflect the voice of our unique community. For more information on this publication or future publications of Cowichan Kids please contact Cindy Lise at cindylsuccessby6@shaw.ca or 748-5866. We welcome your photos and articles!

Your Donations Make a Difference

Success By 6 supports the funding of many local programs for children and families. 100% of all donations go directly to programs in the Cowichan Valley. For more information or to make a charitable donation to Success By 6®, visit your local United Way or Credit Union or go to www.successby6bc.ca . Tax receipts will be issued for donations over $10.00.

Community Members danced

to “Follow the Leader”, and found

creative ways to promote a New

Deal for Families at the WTF party in April with Dr Paul

Kershaw

Success by 6 vice Chair Leslie Welin shares a

moment with Dr Paul Kershaw and Regional

Coordinator Cindy Lise at the Where’s the Family

Party in April

Contest... Enter HereYou Can Win $50 In Children’s Craft

Supplies From Staples Business Depot Just By Sending Us Your

Name And Number! 2 -Prizes To Be Won-

To Enter, Email:cindylsuccessby6@shaw.ca

Deadline July 31, 2012 – winners will be contacted by phone.

Chances of winning depends on the number of applications received. You can also mail in your entry by sending your name and phone

number to Cowichan Success By 6

6080 York Road, Duncan BC V9L-5G8

COASTAL COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION AND MODERN WINDOWS PRESENT

THE LORAX JOIN IN THE FUN AT THE

FIRST STARLIGHT MOVIE NIGHT Thursday July 19th at the

Cowichan Sportsplex. Gates open at 7:00

Bring along a blanket and enjoy the evening- Concession on site. Don’t miss

this FREE fun family event!

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summer 2012

Message from Phil Kent Chair, Council of Partners

In April, Cowichan Success by Six sponsored Dr.Paul Kershaw, Associate Professor at UBC, Human Early Learning

Partnership, to spend a day talking to Cowichan parents, ECD professionals, politicians, seniors and the public about raising healthy children. Dr. Kershaw’s message, simply, we have stopped investing in families and children in Canada. The impact on our communities, our economy and our future is becoming profound and is a lost opportunity for Canadian society. Since the mid 1970’s Canada’s economy has doubled in size, while average family income has remained stagnant compared to the previous generation, this is even with the fact that the contribution to family income by young women has gone up 53% in that time. The results are less time, less money and higher cost to care for children today.

Dr. Kershaw had some proactive policy suggestions on how governments and business could turn this trend around and return Canada to its proud tradition of building our society and communities. One of the impressive outcomes of making these investments was the proven positive impact on business and the economy. It is in our own interest for us to consider changing the direction of our current approaches. Some of the policy changes recommended by Dr. Kershaw include improved equity in benefits for parents of newborns, affordable universal $10/day childcare and flex-time policies for employees and employers that better support families. These kind of investments will pay dividends for generations. It’s really a no brainer.

Phil KentChairCouncil of Partners,Success By 6

For more information on A New Deal For Families go to blog:http://blogs.ubc.ca/newdealforfamilies/

Council of PartnersLeslie Cochrane Ts’ewulhtun Health

Peter De Verteuil City of Duncan

Wendy Erickson SD 79 Early Literacy

Betty Exelby Early Childhood College Professor

John Elzinga Island Savings Centre Manager

Jeff Forsyth Manager Staples Business Depot

Michael Gintowt Ministry of Children and Family Development

Sarah Hollett Chemainus Island Savings Credit Union

Jason Horn Community member

Jennifer Jones Ts’ewulhtun Health

Phil Kent Chair Sby 6 -Mayor of City of Duncan

Cindy Lise Coordinator Cowichan Success By 6

Kate Marsh Municipality of North Cowichan

Ada Mawson Aboriginal Engagement Coordinator

Bill Macadam Publisher Cowichan News Leader Pictorial

Carol Stenberg Cowichan United Way

Joy Stott Vancouver Island Health Authority

Chris Waddell Representing Island Savings Credit Union

Leslie Welin Community Member

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We have shared this article before but feel that it is a good one to publish again when children are outside playing this summer.Often bites occur from our own pets or from those we know. Often without realizing it our own actions can aggravate the dog and contribute to the dog biting.Learning to “read a dog” can help reduce dog bite risks. Talk with your children about safety around dogs.Play Bites- by far most kids are bitten while playing with dogs. The fun sometimes leads to over excitement and causes an accidental bite. Think about it. Since dogs have no hands they use their mouths and claws when they play. If the play gets rough and the dog gets really excited, the dog can misjudge and accidentally grab your leg or arm causing a bite or cut. When dogs play with other doges they have thick fur to protect themselves you don’t. Solution: Stop the play and walk away! Gentle play is fine, rough play is not. If your dog gets too excited, call time out! You can play again after everyone calms down. If you have a dog that gets excited easily don’t play dug of war or run and chased games. Play fetch instead.Your dog the protector!Many dogs protect stuff. Their toys, their food, even their space. Some dogs however are more protective than others. These dogs tend to be more dominant within the family pack. Luckily dominant, possessive dogs usually give “signals” when they are protecting something. Warning signs include standing over the object, growling, teeth bearing and at worse snarling and lunging.SolutionBe on the prowl for growls. Read these signals. Dogs that defend everything, including their favourite spot on the couch, are very likely to bite. If your dog gives the protective signal don’t take away her favourite toy, or reach in with your hand. –Or worse place your face- near her dish when she is eating. If you have an

over protective dog, its time to see the dog trainer for some help. Defensive DogA dog with an anxious personality is more likely to bite without much warning. Anxious dogs lack confidence and are more likely to bite to protect themselves rather than defend toys or food. Anxious dogs are unsure and fearful of new situations, loud noises or strangers whether human or other dogs. Their signals include a lower head, tail low or between their legs and their ears pulled back. They might chase and bark as you walk away from them but quickly retreat if you come toward them. The can fool you sometimes into thinking they are sad and scared but if you get too close they could suddenly snap.Solution Be calm and confident around anxious dogs. NEVER try to hug them! Avoid situations where the dog feels cornered or crowded. Anxious dogs always need a place to retreat if they feel scared. Never sneak up or try to pick up a fearful dog. They are likely going to bite first and ask questions later. Its always best to back away slowly from a fearful anxious dog. Never turn and run- you are almost certain to get bitten.Lonely Dog Ever seen a lonely dog all by himself in the back yard? Don’t be tempted to reach in to his yard to pet him. Often backyard dogs are fearful of people and while they might look sand and lonely they are also very unpredictable and most likely of all dogs to bite. Many kids have had their arms badly bitten while reaching to pet a lonely dog through a fence.Solution: don’t try to pet a backyard dog or approach a dog on a chain-EVER! They may even be wagging their tail. Not all tail wagging is friendly. The only way to pet a dog is with his guardian and only if the guardian says it is safe.

Submitted by BC SPCA

Playing it Safe with Dogs

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Is Reading and/or Writing a Problem

For You or Your Child?

We are not a tutoring centre. We teach our clients a unique mutli-sensory method of

learning how to encode and decode words. These are the skills required for reading and spelling and comprehension. This technique addresses the symptoms of auditory discrimination and dyslexia. Make an appointment to get information about the

Lindamood-Bell® Reading Techniques.

Building independence, strengthening people and nurturing relationships.

D&G Literacy and CounsellingPhone 250-701-3996

Attention Cowichan Valley Families, Child care providers and Community members!The Cowichan Valley Child Care Resource & Referral Program is your community’s best source of child care

information and resources.

Supporting families with children 0-12 years. We will… • Talk with you about different types of child care. • Personalize referrals lists to help you fi nd childcare. • Help you apply for a Child Care Subsidy. • Fax Child Care Subsidy applications at no charge.

Supporting child care providers. We will… • Talk with you about starting a license-not-required or licensed child care business. • Offer child care training workshops and courses. • Loan toys, child-related equipment, books and DVD’s to registered child care providers.

Clements Centre Society in Duncan, 5856 Clements St. Duncan BC V9L 3W3Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:00pmPhone: 250-746-4135 local 231 Email: ccrr@clementscentre.org A program of Clements Centre Society, Funded by the Province of BC

NEW PATIENTSWELCOME

•General & Cosmetic Dentistry•Teeth Whitening•Velscope Oral Cancer Screening•State of the Art Dental Equipment•Dental Implant Placement & Restoration

55-1400 Cowichan Bay Rd.Cobble Hill

250-743-6698www.cobblehilldental.com

reception@cobblehilldental.com

and...

One Visit Crowns

tooth whitening systems

Dr. James Cornell and Staff welcomeDr. Dustin George

to our Practice as of July 5, 2012General & Cosmetic Dentistry, Endodontics,

Oral Surgery and Pediatric DentistryPhone for an appointment now.

Our state of the art Dental Clinic offers alternative hours:Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 7:30 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday 8:00 am - 7:00 pm, Friday 9:00 am-6:00 pmSaturday 9:00 am-4:00 pm

WE WELCOME NEW PATIENTS!

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summer 2012

A fun activity

that is both creative and

sensory!

Homemade Finger PaintsHomemade Finger Paints

2 TBSP Sugar 1/3 Cup or 80ml Cornstarch 2 Cups Cold Water 1/4 Cup Dish Soap Food Colouring or Food Colouring Paste

1 Mix sugar and cornstarch on a small pot.

2 Slowly add water 3 Cook over low heat

until mixture becomes smooth and almost clear (about 5 min).

4 Cool mixture.5 Stir in dish soap6 Put into different

containers.7 Add food colouring or

paste.Have FUN!This recipe can be used for bath tub painting also. Test to make sure the food colouring paste does not leave any residue

the recipe

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What adults call play is just the natural way that children learn. Preschool children are like junior scientists; almost everything they do teaches them about the world, about people and relationships, about themselves. Play is the way children tell us about their thoughts and feelings. They use play to learn new skills and try out their ideas. Children learn about themselves through play. Play builds self-confidence in their choices and ideas. We can help children have the best play experiences by providing a playful environment. Our actions, attitudes and comments all work together to tell children: we want you to be creative! We know you have the ability to try out your ideas! We are interested in your choices for play! A playful environment encourages creative actions and thoughts. There is no right way to dress up, make up a story, to build, draw or paint. “You sure are using your imagination when you dress up” “You are putting the blocks together so carefully” “tell me more about your story”. We encourage children’s play the best when we don’t judge the creative efforts, when we show our interest.Make your child’s world playful. Even functional things like eating, dressing, tooth brushing and napping can be imaginative. Children might enjoy tooth brushing more if they pretend they are brushing dinosaur teeth. Or some children might settle for sleep if they pretend they are on a flying carpet floating

in the clouds.Children often appreciate adult participation in their play if the adult is the helper, letting the child direct the play. Sometimes we can be too directive when we want to teach children things while they play. Children may think you don’t like what they are doing if it doesn’t involve specific skills like drawing counting or naming things. We can use play to guide the child to find things out for him or herself while encouraging imagination. We might be the one to count out loud all the cars on the road that are part of a pretend story. When I am helping a child play, I like to pretend that I am the wise servant who looks after a king or queen or some other special person. I am there to help, perhaps

encourage in a polite way, but certainly never to tell the queen she has put her skirt on the wrong way or that there is a better way to stack the blocks or that she put too much paste on her paper. We can encourage play by talking about the play and not the end product. Focus on the product can make children criticize their efforts. Focus on the process of play helps children value their own actions and builds self-confidence.Take the time to play with your child. It is a great way to promote your child’s development and to support the growth of a trusting and respectful relationship.

Laura Mills, Ph.D.Registered PsychologistDuncan, BC

It’s not just play

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Champions for Children

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Champions for Children

2012 Success By 6 Champion for Children Finalists and Organizers:Back Row: Cindy Lise, Janet Cundall, Island Savings Credit Union- Brad Lesiuk, Patrick Erickson, Kathryn Coopsie, Cowichan Maternity Clinic- Nicolette Pearce, Denise McDonald, Averil Drive Neighbourhood- Paula Ramwell, Bonnie Hastings, Kyla Bridge, Thelma Schofield,

Angela Ramwell, Chris WaddellFront Row, Fit Stop Fitness- Jody Saunders, Howie George, Forest Discovery Centre- Vicki Holman, Myra Charlie, Social Planning

Cowichan- Linden Collette and Betty Exelby, missing Ts’ewulhtun Health

Cindy Lise, Ada Mawson, Myra Charlie,

Howie George, Ts’ewulhtun Health-

Leslie Cochrane, Amber Macadam, Doreen

Peter, Perry George, Greta Pearson, Caroline

Modest

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Healthy Beginnings 9:30 & 10:30 am Toddlers 11:00-12:00

Babies Shawnigan Lake Community CentreBreastfeeding Clinic

9:30-11:30 Margaret Moss Health Unit, free, drop in, or call for appt

709-3050

Whales Tales Story Time and activities 10:00 am -2pmDuncan Mall

Healthy Beginnings 1-2:00 pm Moms, Dads, toddlers and

babies Margaret Moss Health Unit, Duncan

Immunization Clinic & Healthy Beginnings

First & third Fri -9:30-11:30 am, Chemainus Elementary Community

School

Healthy Beginnings 9:30 & 10:30 am Toddlers –Kaatza Health

Unit, Lake Cowichan11-12 Moms, Dads and Babies

Whales Tales stories and activities 10 am -2pm Duncan

Mall

Mothers Morning Out 9:30-11:00 246 Ingram Street –Free Drop in Program for mothers and children from

birth to 5 years Healthy Beginnings

10:30-11:30 am Margaret Moss Health Unit, Duncan

Breastfeeding Clinic 1-3 Margaret Moss Health Unit, free, drop

in, or call for appt 709-3050Eagles’ Nest Family Resource Program

0-5 with Adult at Chemainus Elem, 9-11am (except school closures)Triple P Mini-Series for Parents

of 18 mos – 6 yr oldsCowichan Aquatic Centre Tuesday

September 4 – September 25, 201210:00 – 11:30 a.m. Free child care available Register: 250-709-3050

Whales Tales Story Time and activities 10:00 am- 2pm Duncan Mall

Immunization clinic 9-11:30 Margaret Moss drop in

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Resources: Child Care Resource & Referral 746-4135Sundrops Centre for Child Development 746-4125Cowichan Lake Community Services 749-6822Healthiest Babies Possible 748-2242Hiiye’yu Lelum House of Friendship 748-2242Literacy Now Cowichan 597-1776Ts’ewulhtun Health Centre 746-6184To be included in the Activities Guide please contact: Cindy Lise 250-748-5866 cindylsuccessby6@shaw.ca

Family Pages Sponsors

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summer 2012

Free Prenatal Classes Sessions are ongoing in a series of eight classes. Contact Margaret Moss Health Unit to register 709-3050

Tsewultun Health programming from 10-1:00 daily (free child minding and rides) 746-6184 -

Monday Healing and relationships 10- noonTuesday Parent child drop in 11-1

Also offered by registration: Prenatal Group for first time pregnancy’s, Bringing Home Tradition Parenting, and Developmental Screening for 18

months and Three years. Call to register.

Healthy Pregnancy Class at Margaret Moss Health Centre.250 709-3050

to RegisterCelebrate Your Pregnancy! As soon as you

know you are pregnant sign up for the Healthy Pregnancy class at Margaret Moss Health Centre

and learn about healthy eating for pregnancy, stress reduction, how to adapt to the physical

and emotional changes of pregnancy, baby’s development and ways to create the healthiest

environment for your baby to grow in.

Strong Start Parent -Child Drop in Preschool –When School is in Session

Alexander Elementary Mon-Friday 9:00 am-12:00 pm

Bench Elementary Mon- Fri 9:00 am-12:00 pmChemainus Elementary Community School 12:30

to 3:30pm Drinkwater Elementary 8:30 am-11:30 pm

Khowhemun Elementary Mon- Fri 8:30-11:00

After-School Programs/Summer Camps Crofton & Chemainus -contact CCSA

250-246-3588

Parent Child Mother Goose Plans are underway to offer two Parent-Child Mother Goose

programs this summer, the first week of July to the last week in August. The plans are for a

toddler program at Centennial Park and an infant program at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church.

Contact Bonnie 250-709-3050 for more information.

Starlight Cinema- FREE Movie night in the Park “THE LORAX”- July 19th at the Cowichan

Sportsplex. Gates open at 7:00 pm, movie starts at 9:10 Come and Join Coastal Community Credit

Union, Modern Windows and Success by 6 for a fun filled family film in the park. Concession

available. Bring your blanket and pillows and join in the fun outdoor experience

Duncan Summer Children’s Festival is taking place on Sunday July 8th, from 11 am to 4pm. This free event draws families from across the region to share in a day of fun and adventures.

The event already offers a bouncy castle, climbing wall, ice cream eating contest and

performances by many children’s entertainers. Stop by the train station at Charles Hoey Park!

BC Day is Kids Day!Monday, August 6, 2012 – Join us for lively

musical entertainment as we celebrate BC Day with a fun day for the kids! Jump aboard the

unlimited train rides, bouncy castle, games, crafts and concession. This annual event is

a family favourite. 10 am to 4:30 pm Regular admission rates apply and this event is included

in the BCFDC memberships

Children’s Parade Friday July 13 – Marshal at 5:30 Jubilee and Kenneth Street Down town

Duncan Goody bags for everyone

Grand ParadeSaturday July 14th 11:00 am start Downtown

Duncan.

Visit Vancouver Island Regional Library this summer to join our annual Summer Reading

Club for free. Kids age 0-12 can join us for free programs, contests, displays, prizes and fun all

summer long. Visit any branch to find out all the details.

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summer 2012

How confident are you that your child’s car seat or booster seat is installed or used properly? Does it surprise you that more than 90% of seats have errors – and some of them would be deadly in a crash? Motor vehicle collisions are the number one cause of death among our nation’s children, but those deaths and serious injuries can be greatly reduced by ensuring that your children are properly restrained in the car for every single ride.The best seat is the one that you will use properly every time, fits your child, installs well in your vehicle, and fits your budget. Every seat on the market passes the same crash tests but only if it’s used properly! You don’t have to spend a lot of money to keep your child safe. But you do have to rigorously follow the manufacturer’s instructions for both your car seat AND your vehicle.Rear face your child as long as you can, and aim for at least two years or until you max out the limits on your seat, either by height or by weight. The harness straps must be at or BELOW the shoulders. Newborns and younger babies must be reclined to 45*, but older children can often sit more upright if the car seat allows it. Don’t worry about their legs, kids are comfy in ways we’re not. Rear facing protects a child’s head, neck and spine, and provides significant side impact protection as well.Children may turn forward facing once they are 1 year old AND 22lbs AND walking unassisted, but DON’T RUSH THIS STEP! It’s ok to rear face until 3 or longer so long as your child fits the seat. Once forward facing, ensure the straps are at or ABOVE the shoulders; if the child outgrows the harness by height before being heavy enough or developmentally ready for a booster, look for a taller harnessed seat. Forward facing seats MUST be top tethered to an approved anchor point. If your vehicle did not come with tether anchors you may be able to have them retrofitted.Harnesses should be tight enough so that you can’t pinch a fold of harness at the collarbone, and the chest clip should be at armpit level. The seat should not move more than 1” in any direction at the belt path.A child may be in a booster seat once he is 40lbs AND mature enough to remain seated in position at all times. Some are ready at 5, and most by 7. Start with a high-back booster, and transition to a backless after a few years. Make sure the lap belt is low and flat across the thighs and not up on the belly, and that the shoulder belt is centered across the collarbone and not sliding off the shoulder or riding up on the neck or face. When you move your child to a booster you are taking the buckling responsibility off of yourself, and putting it onto your child – is he ready for that?The back seat is the safest spot for kids until they’re 13. They may be the size of an adult, but their skeletons aren’t as physically mature. Airbags can cause serious damage to young children.If your seat has ever been in a collision of any kind, been dropped from more than three feet, or been checked as luggage on an airplane, consider it crashed – your child should not ride in it again. Expired seats should not be used either, nor should the harness straps be washed or sprayed with cleaner. It’s illegal to use

an American seat in Canada, even if it appears to be exactly the same.Vancouver Island Car Seat Techs are certified Children’s Restraint Systems Technicians, living and volunteering all over the island. Our goal is education, and we’re here to help – not judge. We’re parents too, and among us have likely made every error in the book before getting involved in this field. To ask a question about what seat to buy, get installation help, or arrange to meet with a technician in person, visit us at www.vicarseattechs.com, or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/VICarSeatTechs.

Jen Shapka Children’s Restraint Systems Technician-Instructor

Car Seat Safety

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summer 2012

“Singing is the best form of illness prevention, the easiest bridge-builder between human beings and the most wonderful gift adults can give to their children! Singing can help generations navigate the time and space that separates them, thus weaving a bridge of love, health and joy around the world!” Dr. Michaela Glockler, M.D. Pediatrician, Dornach, Switzerland Have you seen that poster in town that says. ‘Success by 6, Sing Early, Sing Often” I really am happy that singing is what they have in mind when they say ‘success’, because singing is actually one of the most healing, healthy and beautiful ways to bring well -being and balance into a child’s life. There are of course many studies that prove the health benefits of singing, for the lungs, the left /right brain co-ordination, the influence on language development, increase in concentration, memory, visual and listening skills, spatial orientation and physical co-ordination. The pure joy that children have when singing is enough for any care giver, parent or grandparent to encourage singing all the day long. Singing through the day is a fun and beneficial way to make transitions between meals, cleaning up, outside time, upsets and bed times. It can help to soothe and bring calmness and bring happiness to a little grumpy moment. A collection of songs for different occasions is a valuable and joyful tool for the parents hand bag. For example, you can see how the children will join in the tidying up when you sing the “ All the things in their place..” song. In our family we have a tradition of singing before each meal to gather us together and to give thanks for the food we are about to eat. If the children are not at the table when we have asked them to come, all it takes is for us to sing that song and they know we are about to eat and magically they appear at the table to not miss out on that family ritual. Songs can also be important for bed times, as way to connect with the day and

transition into sleep. If something special happened during the day, you could make up a little song about that event and weave it into a song and story. I encourage you to make up as many songs as you can, go ahead and try it out, it is really fun and the children love it too! Do not feel discouraged if you are feel you cannot sing. There is a saying from Zimbabwe “ If you can walk you can dance,

if you can talk, you can sing!” Singing is truly for everyone, you might just have to try it a bit to gain a little confidence. By Cari Burdett Lila Music Centre offers a seasonal joyful approach to singing for parents and tots. For info: Call 250 701 0978, www.joythroughmusic.com,, joythroughmusic@shaw.ca

Sing with your children

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Colouring Page

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Living on the West Coast it rains about 8 months out of the year, we long for sunshine breaks after the winter storms. As, a full time Mom, I am constantly seeking artistic things to keep the kids busy throughout the school year rain or shine .The summer is almost here and I would love to share some “cool” play tips.Creative and colorful water play:Fill a plastic storage container or 4 liter ice-cream almost filled to the top with water.Place your container on a deck or lawn or (lay down a plastic table cloth if you are indoors)Ad food coloring to your water……blue or greenAd your kids favorite toys eg. Pet shops or carsYou may also ad dish soap and have a “ Pet wash” or “car wash”Use tooth brushes from the dollar store( 5 pack for under $1.50)Other “cool” ideas:Fill up cake pans with water and food coloring stick it in the freezerFill up ice cube trays with food coloringFill up jello molds with water and food coloring.The frozen cubes and different shapes can be added to the water play or even to a swimming pool.Bring the beach home. Take home a favorite seashell, rock or seaweed piece and ad that to your water play container.Your kids will stay cool and feel very blessed when you include them in the process. Practice counting by filling up measuring

cups and food coloring drops to the water. Practice patience when waiting for the water designs to freeze. Be creative when you are making the ice-cubes or frozen shapes by utilizing a turkey baser to fill them up. I encourage you to be creative with your kids!

JoHannah KnightIs a full time mother, artist, musician, mother-goose instructor, and runs a licensed daycare.www.yellowsubmarinefamilychildcare.com

Water Play to Keep you “Cool”

www.billroutley.com

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Vancouver Island’s LargestChildren’s Consignment Store!

At our DUNCAN consignment store we are sure to have every-thing you might need to keep your little ones happy all year long!Or check out our LADYSMITH location also, with a huge selec-tion of NEW toys and children’s consignment.

TOYS • CLOTHES • CARSEATSFURNITURE • MATERNITY WEAR

Preschool and Kindergarten Applications warmly invited. www.duncanchristianschool.ca 495 Beech Avenue, Duncan BC 250-746-3654

ool and Kindergarten Appplications warmly inv

Duncan Christian School

Summer Camps

British Soccer CampsYoung Chef

Learn to SkateDrop-in HockeyKids KayakingScience Camp

Byte Camp - Computer CampsCheerleading Camp

Dance DiscoveryJr. Golf CampSports Zone

Fun ZoneJr. Tennis

…are back July 3 - August 31!

For more info or to register 250.748.7529

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summer 2012

There is a lot of buzz happening in the Lower Mainland around Reggio this summer, mainly because the world famous Wonder of Learning: 100 Languages of Children is making a pit stop near Vancouver. This exhibit will be on the upper floor of the River Market at the New Westminster Quay from mid July to mid December and for all those curious about young children’s learning – it is definitely worth a visit. It is the only stop in Canada for the world-travelled exhibit for the next two years.The colourful, child-centred display shows the multitude of ways children learn and understand their world, hence the idea that young children have more than 100 languages, or modes of expression at their disposal. The opinion is that when young children are in environments where their own interests are valued and nourished they are given permission to problem solve, invent, dream and create original thought.This understanding of the breadth of children’s learning came from the - now world famous - infant toddler centres and preschools that evolved in a city in Northern Italy called Reggio Emilia.

“Educators at every level (birth to graduate school) are inspired by the Reggio Emila story of strategic determination and the implementation of best practices,” said Betty Exelby, a retired college professor who has made the trek to Italy on more than one occasion.Passionate women and municipalities connected together in the late 1940s to create the Reggio schools as places where children would be valued for their uniqueness and

individuality and teachers are guides in children’s learning. This is quite different from the traditional role of the North American early childhood educator. “Educators and parents around the world are intrigued by Reggio Emilia’s ability to offer such supportive spaces for young children,” Betty added. “Now the quest is to offer such quality in our own home communities but naturally with a meaningful localized

twist.”Here in the Cowichan Valley, a handful of daycares and preschools have embraced some of the Reggio ideas. “We can say we are ‘inspired’ by the Reggio schools,” Betty added. “But clearly we can’t duplicate them.” The cultural context anywhere outside of the city of Reggio Emilia will be different. But “our friends and colleagues from Reggio Emilia offer as much assistance as is possible through many publications and study tours,” she said. Loris Malaguzzi (1920-1994) a pioneer of early education and the author of the 100 Languages of Children believed passionately in the potential of all children. His legacy through the Reggio approach lives on today. “Our task regarding creativity,” he said, “is to help children climb their own mountains, as high as possible. No one can do more.”To find out more about Reggio Emilia visit www.reggiochildren.it Kate Skye is an early childhood educator who currently manages Arcadian Early Learning in Duncan. Betty Exelby is one of this year’s recipients of the Success by 6 Excellence Award.

By Kate Skye

How Reggio Inspires

Chalkboard Theatre“STEP IN TIME” Musical Theatre Camp

August 13-18th at Queen Margaret’s SchoolFor students ages 8-12 years old

Starting September 2012!!:Musical Theatre Performance Classes

Now for students ages 6-18!

www.chalkboardtheatre.com

M

with Andrea Sicotte Rodall, BMUSOffering private instruction in Voice, Piano,

and Theory for ages “5 to 95”AND

Kindermusik classes for newborns to 7 year olds and their families.

Now accepting enrollments for summer and fall classes-check out:www.joyofmusicstudio.ca

or call 250-748-3781 for more details

presented byppppprrrreesented byppppppprrrrrrreesented by

20 Cowichan Kids

summer 2012

Child Care and Early Childhood Educators Make a DifferenceThe Cowichan ECEBC, ECEBC and BCGEU was proud to celebrate child care month with the launch of a series of short animations which can be found on www.cowichankids.ca or http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ1fnqAP5KyZhRK9U1mnn6Q/feed

These five animations are part of a leadership project created by the Cowichan Early Childhood Education members Cindy Lise, Ami Mullins and Adriana Soler. The BCGEU worked jointly with them on

the campaign portion of the project.

The messages conveyed in these clips outline the importance of early childhood educators and the diverse skills required to support children and families in their growth and development.

Living in an era of technology, we have the ability to send information around the world. There is no greater message to send than the importance of early childhood educators, who are responsible for providing care to society’s most important

citizens.

An informed society will help build a level of respect and a professional understanding that early childhood educators deserve.

This portion of the project aims to use the power of social media. We are encouraging you to send these short animations via facebook, twitter and other media.

Please share and promote these clips through your social networks.

If your child started kindergarten in September 2011 and has not yet received the kindergarten booster for Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis and Polio vaccine please contact a health unit of your choice.

To make an appointment for your child please call:250-709-3050 for Duncan, Shawnigan Lake or Chemainus 250-749-6878 for Lake Cowichan 250-245-6549 for Ladysmith 250-746-6184 for TseWulTun Health Centre250-245-8551 for Stzuminus First Nation

(Shell Beach, Kulleet Bay, Oyster Bay)250-743-3900 for Malahat250-246-2127 for Halalt-Chemainus area, Lyackson 250-246-9885 for Kuper Island-Penelakut

Parents of Students starting Kindergarten in September 2012:

Cowichan Kids 21

summer 2012

To the uninitiated, artistic gymnastics is a sport seen once every four years during the Summer Olympics. The athletes are muscle-toned and lean; they show their emotions due to the drama of the high stage, they cheer each other on and seemingly elicit good will to their fellow competitors. Even when not trying, they demonstrate the successful traits of well-adjusted, healthy and valued citizens of our community.But this character does not show up in the mail or happen overnight. Rather it starts in early childhood by developing good cognitive and motor skills. There may be other very suitable venues to develop these life skills but perhaps none better than the gymnastics hall. A typical session for a toddler looks something like this:Warm-up and stretching - this important activity is rather easy for most small children but of great value. The activities are dressed up with fun names like the bear walk and the bunny hop, and they may look and sound more like child play but they are actually conditioning the body and mind for more vigorous exercise to follow.Jumping and bouncing - using

the mat and the trampoline, children feel the freedom of movement and enjoy the sensation of being airborne. Balance - using the beam children learn the vital importance of being calm and centered. The mastery of first staying and then walking on the beam builds confidence from within.Apparatus use - using the bars, rings or even a tumbling wedge, children develop strength and agility. Skill development promotes learning skills as the four basic steps to learning are oft-repeated: (a) demonstrating the correct behavior, (b) allowing for trial by the child, (c) correcting errors and finally (d) repeating the corrected behavior.Lastly, don’t underestimate the social skill development benefits as well; children regularly help and encourage each other, they look forward to seeing their friends and they learn to listen to their coach or trainer. What better way to develop your child’s potential than with the aid of gymnastics?

Karyne BaileyDuncan Dynamics Gymnastics Club

Gymnastics: Fabulous Fitness & Fun

MULBERRY LANESCHOOL OF MUSIC

•Newborn to 5 years •Age appropriate programs•Small Class Sizes •Educational & Fun•No Registration Fee •Free Trial Lesson

“Children in music do better in school and life”Call Kathy to register

250-748-9794

MUSIC & MOVEMENT CLASSES

www.mulberrylanemusic.com

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summer 2012

CHILD CAREArcadian Early Learning 250-748-3922 Nurturing young children and their families since 1974. Not for profit, downtown location, open year round7:30 – 5:30 (except statutory holidays).Licensed infant toddler (0 – 3 years) and licensed group daycare (3 – 5 years). www.arcadianchildren.com

Growing Together Child and Parent Society 250-748-9754A Ministry designated Young Parent Program. Offering child care to young parents (under 24) who are attending school to finish their basic education. Early Childhood Educators provide early learning and care for children aged 0–3yrs. Parenting support and mentoring is provided and encouraged. Some community spaces may be available. Located at 490 Cairnsmore Street Duncan. Operating Sept – June. 8:30- 3:00 pm.

Kidz Co. Learning Centre Inc 250-746-4020A licensed Group Day Care Centre/ Pre School/ After School that provides a safe, developmentally appropriate environment for children 30 months to 12 yrs. Our focus is to provide a stimulating early care and education experience which promotes each child’s uniqueness, and ensuring school readiness.

Parkside Academy Child Care Centre 250-746-1711Offering quality, affordable literacy focused childcare and early learning programs for children ages 0-12. Licensed and Teacher qualified. Visit www.parksideacademy.ca for more information on programs. Continuous enrolment preschool programs available at Alexander El and Khowhemun El. Ensure your child’s readiness for school and love for learning by enrolling today.

Shawnigan Lake Montessori Child Care (includes preschool programming) 250 743 6279Licensed age 3-5. 1979C Shawnigan Lake Rd, (Shawnigan Lake School Campus), Program includes a prepared environment for self discovery, creative purposeful play and respectful social interactions. Explore practical life, sensory refinement, literacy, numeracy, multicultural including art, geography, science and music. Montessori, ECE, and M.ED qualified staff. shawnigan.montessori@gmail.com, cell 250 510 3428

Cowichan Valley Child Care Resource and Referral 250-746-4135 ext 231The CCRR offers free fererrals and child care information for families and support to child care providers. “The Cowichan Valley CCRR is your community’s best source of child care information and resources. “

Yellow Submarine Family Child Care 250-246-1366Chemainus, Licenced ( # A0SN-8JPU7T), Snack Provided,Art, Music, Circle Time & Outdoor Play. Excellent References & Rates.Full -Time Spaces Available. www.yellowsubmarinefamilychildcare.com

PRE-SCHOOLArcadian Early Learning licensed preschool 250-748-3922 Mon, Wed, Fri. 9 – Noon. Reggio inspired, child-centred with art, music, and nature as our focus. Enrolling year round Sept to June. www.arcadianchildren.com

Cowichan Preschool 250-748-4112 Parent owned preschool offering creative, developmentally appropriate preschool programs for children aged 3-5. Centrally located in beautiful park setting. Serving the Cowichan Valley since 1977.

Eagle Wings Preschool Chemainus Elementary Community School 250-246-3588“Through the magic of play children learn and grow”. The licensed preschool follows up to date ECE standards and curriculum. Opportunities for early literacy, positive social, emotional, and physical skills are encouraged. ccsa@sd79.bc.ca

Queen of Angels Early Learning Centre 250-701-0433We believe that the development of the whole child (physically, socially, emotionally, cognitively and spiritually) encourages each individual to develop to their full potential. We offer an enriched full day preschool program for 3-5 year olds based on Kindergarten readiness.

PRE-SCHOOLSaint Josephs Preschool 250-246-3191Licensed centre located at St. Joseph’s School in Chemainus. We offer opportunities for children to develop as a whole child, (physically, socially, emotionally and spiritually). Our program believes that children learn through play and are given many opportunities to learn in a hands on environment. By using age appropriate means our program teaches early literacy, numeracy and social skills. www.stjosephselem.ca

Shawnigan Christian Preschool 250-743-4970 Provides a licensed Pre-Kindergarten Program offering a fun and educational experience. Classes are offered Tuesday through Friday for children aged 2.5 to 5 years old, from September until June. Contact Rita Martin email: preschool @shawniganalliance.org. Licence No: 1381133.

Sunrise Waldorf School, Kindercottage Nursery 250-743-7253A morning program for 3 and 4 year olds available as 2 or 3 day a week option. A warm nurturing atmosphere where a sense of wonder is celebrated and outdoor playtime is abundant. Organic snacks included. Parent child program is also available. www.sunrisewaldorft school.org

Cowichan Lake Recreation Playschool.AGES 3 & 4 Monday to Friday 9:00 - 11:00 am CLSA Playschool Room, Lake Cowichan. Drop-in available. Cost per session: 12 week period $87 - 1 day/wk $142 - 2 days/wk $185 - 3 days/wk $228 - 4 days/wk $282 - 5 days/wk Call 250-749-6742 for registration & information.

FAMILY PROGRAMSChemainus Crofton Community Schools Association 250-246-3588CCSA is a non-profit society that runs the “community” part of Chemainus and Crofton Elementary Community Schools. We offer after-school programs and kidZsummer camps to school students and community residents. Thanks to our many partners, babies to seniors may benefit from our immunization clinics, gym rentals, fine art classes and more. ccsa@sd79.bc.ca

Eagles’ Nest Family Resource Program 250-246-3588 eaglesnest@sd79.bc.ca Tuesdays and Friday’s 9:00-11:00 (except school closures)$2.00 drop in fee. Drop in Family Resource Program for parents, grandparents, caregivers and children 0-5 at Chemainus Elementary Community School. Connect with your child and other families in this interactive program that includes play –based learning, snack circle time, parenting education, and more. Program runs September thru June.

Healthiest Babies Possible (Duncan) 250-748-2242Is a pregnancy outreach program open to women and their partners needing extra support. Services include one on one counselling, support and advocacy, diet and lifestyles information. A prenatal and postnatal group runs every Wednesday with lunch, childcare and transportation provided. A program for fathers also runs on Thursdays. Email KCoopsie@hofduncan.org

Healthy Beginnings 250-709-3050Relaxed and informal drop in for moms, dads, grandparents and friends- all welcome! Free! Healthy snacks provided. Taxi provided where available. We meet weekly except when a statutory holiday occurs in the week. Sessions at Kaatza Health Unite, Margaret Moss, and Shawnigan Lake Community Centre.

SCHOOLSQueen of Angels 250 746 5919We are committed to providing a quality education for kindergarten to grade nine in a safe and nurturing environment. We are dedicated to the continual development of the whole individual as a lifelong learner: spiritually, physically, intellectually, culturally, emotionally, and socially. website: www.queenofangels.ca.

Family Services Directory

Cowichan Kids 23

summer 2012

VALLEY VIEW MARTIAL ARTSEmail: sifu@valleyviewmartialarts.comPhone 250 929 2211 #6 - 1400 Cowichan Bay Road,Cobble Hill, B.C. V0R 1L3 www.valleyviewmartialarts.com

Book your FREE private lesson followed by a FREE no-obligation group class.

Call SIFU TORRIE at 250.929.2211

QualityPrograms

FamilyOrientated

IsMartial Arts

Right foryour Family?

Flying Tigers (4-5 yrs)Little Dragons (6-9 yrs)Family & Adult (10+ yrs)

Cobble Hill, 3515 Watson AvenuePhone: 250 743 - 2433

email: evergreen@evergreenbc.net

per litre Rebate on Home Heating purchases.

Call today!5¢Members received a

100% locally owned

REBATE PROGRAM • EQUAL BILLING • AUTOMATIC FILL • FURNACE PROTECTION PLAN

1-877-333-3933www.peninsulaco-op.com

Sign Up ForSTRESS FREEAUTO-FILL

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The Cowichan Area

Cowichan Kids 23

summer 2012

VALLEY VIEW MARTIAL ARTSEmail: sifu@valleyviewmartialarts.comPhone 250 929 2211 #6 - 1400 Cowichan Bay Road,Cobble Hill, B.C. V0R 1L3 www.valleyviewmartialarts.com

Book your FREE private lesson followed by a FREE no-obligation group class.

Call SIFU TORRIE at 250.929.2211

QualityPrograms

FamilyOrientated

IsMartial Arts

Right foryour Family?

Flying Tigers (4-5 yrs)Little Dragons (6-9 yrs)Family & Adult (10+ yrs)

Cobble Hill, 3515 Watson AvenuePhone: 250 743 - 2433

email: evergreen@evergreenbc.net

per litre rebate on 2011 Home Heating Oil purchases.

Call today!5¢Members received a

REBATE PROGRAM • EQUAL BILLING • AUTOMATIC FILL • FURNACE PROTECTION PLAN

1-877-333-3933www.peninsulaco-op.com

Sign Up ForSTRESS FREEAUTO-FILL

TODAY

Scan with mobile

Home HeatingNow Serving

The Cowichan Area

100% locally owned

24 Cowichan Kids

summer 2012

We have a lot to offer! Here are a few of the services that we provide that you may not realize. Don’t hesitate to bring in other special requests!

Health Information and Clinics:Did you know have a weekly column in the Cowichan News Leader Pictorial?Look for the advertisements for clinic days that address specific health topics.Ask our pharmacists about complimentary community based seminars.

Lifestyle Support:Advice on medication use for special groups (children/pregnant and lactating women, individuals with existing or recurring health conditions).

Natural Health:Advice on natural and homeopathic products. Mill Bay Pharmasave now has weekly deliveries to our store from The Silly-Yak Bakery in Qualicum by special order. Pick up a brochure instore. You no longer need to travel far for speciality foods. Some baked goods are also available Dairy Free. Our Natural Health Care Consultant is available Monday to Friday for any questions you may have.

Mill Bay Pharmasave……keeping your family healthy!

DELIVERY WITH PRESCRIPTIONS

250-743-9011 Mill Bay CentreMill Bay BC

Mon-Fri 9am-7pmSat 9am-6pm

Sun 11am-5pm

For more information, please give us a call! Our pharmacy is PCCA (Professional Compounding Centers of America) certified

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Mill Bay Pharmasave

Showing You Gluten-Free Food is Fun and Tasty!

This guide contains information to help you enjoy a happy, healthy, Gluten Free life.Mill Bay Pharmasave has a wide selection of freeshly baked gluten-free products delivered to our store every Wednesday. Please speak with Rekha, our in-store Natural Health Consultant about the range of gluten-free products, speciality foods and how to join our Gluten Free Bread Club.

PharmacistCamille Mitchell,

PharmacistErika Pfahl

PharmacistNadiene Monea,

PharmacistAngie Olsson,

328 Trans Canada Hwy., Duncan 250-746-6841 dq.ca

Now available at: