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Pregnancy - Baby - Toddler - Preschool - School Age - Family
A Free Magazine for Parents and Caregivers
NOTHINGDOWN ABOUT IT!
WHY WE REMEMBER
TO NEVER FORGET
Keeping You Ahead, One Step at a Time since 1987
Providing custom orthopedic bracing solutions and orthotic care for children and adults
Girl Power!
NOVEMBER 2019 VOLUME 21 ISSUE 11
Olivia and Emma brought pure joy to our photo shoot. Olivia was full of excitement, and all smiles (especially when close by mom), and Emma seemed to be the "total babe" her graphic tee claimed, simply sitting pretty in her tutu. We are so happy to celebrate Canadian Down Syndrome Week from November 1-7.Photographer One-12 PhotographyPhotostylists Sabina Manji Melissa Warkentin
C O N T E N T S
ONTHECOVER
EDITORIALIt’s Not Always
Sunshine and Rainbows
05
NEW BEGINNINGSExercise and weight
management in pregnancy
07
DIGEST THISTreating Troubles with Pooping
11
FRANKLY FATHERHOODBIG Emotions
13
ARE WE THERE YET
Family Dog Museum, New York City, NY
15
BIZ SHOWCASEGrand Avenue Children’s Centre
18
PET FRIENDLYMoving with your furry family member
22
BEAUTY AND WELLNESSMoisture Makeover
Publisher/Chief Editor Sabina ManjiAssistant & Copy Editor Melissa WarkentinDesigner Vlado BaliSales Sandy Rusland [email protected] Sales Sabrina Horner [email protected] If you have any comments or suggestions, please contact us at 519.652.9226 or at [email protected]. THE MOM & CAREGIVER is published by Anibas Productions Limited, Publications Mail, Agreement Number 40834037 PO Box 29118, London, ON N6K 4L9 - www.themomandcaregiver.com THE MOM & CAREGIVER is distributed FREE of charge. Anibas Productions Limited welcomes unsolicited contributions. Such material, if published, may be edited. Although Anibas Productions Limited cannot pay contributors, recognition will be given to the contributor. Anibas Productions Limited reserves the right to refuse any contributions or ads. Anibas Productions Limited cannot accept responsibility, in any way, for dissatisfaction or damages incurred by advertisers or their clients. Advertising rates and circulation information is available on request. All rights reserved. Copyright 2017 ©
04
EVENTS CALENDARNovember
06
AS THEY GROW Safe Sleep
08
KID ZONEWhy We Remember to Never Forget
12
ONE STEP AT A TIMEHow Can I Help My Child with Down Syndrome Stand and Walk?
14
SPECIAL FEATURENothing DOWN About It
16
WILL YOU BE READY? Excuses, Excuses, Excuses: How We Justify Not Doing our Wills
20
FOOD FOR THOUGHTThe Incredible Hulk Muffins
23
12
11
23
22
20
06
07
08
14
Follow Us www.themomandcaregiver.com 3
E D I T O R I A L
NOV
Anyone who thinks fallen leaves are dead has never watched them dancing on a windy day
- Shira Tamir
When you were pregnant, do you remember a single person telling you that parenthood was easy? Nope! It was always “labour is the worst
pain you will ever experience” and “having a toddler is like having a blender you don’t have the lid for” and “dealing with a teenager will make you SO angry!” We all experience the tough and trying times of having children, and believe me, we should all share and talk about those times – no one should feel alone on the parenting journey. So this month, we take a trip through some of those biggest worries – climb aboard to learn about healthy eating, healthy sleep and healthy emotions this month. How do you get your little picky eaters on board with healthier eating? Call them Incredible Hulk Muffins – that will work for sure! (find the recipe on page 22) Worried about safe sleep for your infant? Reduce the risk of SIDS with tips from RN Christa Weir-Cudney of the Children’s Aid Society of London and Middlesex on page 7. Unsure of how to deal with the BIG emotions that come with being a preschooler or schoolager? Find a personal story and practical ideas in our Frankly Fatherhood column on page 12. We are proud to welcome our newest family member and writer, Custom Orthotics of London, in their regular column One Step at a Time. This month, they offer suggestions for parents of children with Down Syndrome (page 13). We were so excited to meet this month’s joyful cover kids, Olivia and Emma, and are honoured that their moms are sharing stories with us during Canadian Down Syndrome Week, which runs from November 1-7. We’ve asked them to share about their wonderful lives with daughters with Down Syndrome, and why advocating is important to them. You’ll love these beautiful tales as much as we do, and you’ll be reminded that “No, it’s not always sunshine and rainbows, but the joyous moments far outweigh any of the rough patches.” Lastly, we take a moment to honour those who risked their lives, and continue to risk their lives, to give us our freedoms this month. We hear from our youngest citizens in tribute to Remembrance Day in Kid Zone’s Why We Remember to Never Forget. This November, we hope your joyous moments far outweigh any of your toughest times. Let the sun shine and the rainbows beam!
IT’S NOT ALWAYS SUNSHINE AND RAINBOWS
4 November 2019
E D I T O R I A L Sabina Manji - Chief Editor
NOV 11/2019EVENTS
For More Details and Events
Your Online Parenting Resource
Harry Potter Family Trivia Afternoon, The Tea Lounge, www.beteas.com/tea-lounge/
Merry Makers Fair, Covent Garden Market, www.coventmarket.com
International Summit to End Internet Child Exploitation, The Hellenic Centre, www.internetsensefirst.comTH
TH
7TH
11
1ST
TH
Arkells, Budweiser Gardens, www.budweisergardens.com
Remembrance Day
3RD
Red Scarf Benefit Concert – Bulow, London Music Hallwww.hivaidsconnection.ca/event/red-scarf-benefit-concert Saturday Morning Walks,
Warbler Woods, www.grandtheatre.com
The Debaters Live on Tour Holiday Special, Centennial Hall, www.centennialhall.london.ca
26TH
Chess in the Library (ages 7 and up), Masonville Library, www.londonpubliclibrary.ca
910
22TH
23RD
30TH
29TH
Disney’s Mary Poppins, Grand Theatre, www.budweisergardens.com
Imagination Station, Museum London, www.museumlondon.ca
TH
17TH
16lest we forget
Art 4 Animals, Oxbury Mall, www.art4animals.ca
Johnny Reid: My Kind of Christmas, Budweiser Gardens, www.budweisergardens.com
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EXERCISE & WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
IN PREGNANCY
Dr. Bhooma Bhayana is a family physician in London and the mother of two young men and grandmother of one lovely princess! She continues to find wonder and enjoyment in family practice despite more than 30 years on the job!
I n Victorian times we thought of pregnancy as an illness, and women were advised to rest or lie down “in waiting”. We now recognize the fallacy of this advice. Keeping
active during pregnancy is key to preventing some of the discomforts of pregnancy, as well as potentially decreasing the risks of caesarian section, gestational diabetes and pregnancy induced high blood pressure. It is important to avoid exercise that might potentially cause trauma, such as contact sports, and to be vigilant to avoid overheating and dehydration. Some medical conditions, such as heart disease and anemia, may require modification in pregnancy. Recommended exercises include walking, swimming, yoga with modified positions, and pelvic floor exercises. Activities with risk of injury such as contact sports, scuba diving, and sky diving should be avoided. Hot yoga, with its risk of dehydration and overheating, should also be avoided. Weight management during pregnancy is an important component of lessening risk for certain conditions. During the phase of planning for a pregnancy, talk to your health care provider about your optimum BMI (body mass index) and take steps to optimize your weight. Pregnancy is not a time to lose weight but a controlled weight gain is ideal. The following chart indicates the recommended weight gain based on pre pregnancy BMI. PRE-PREGNANCY RECOMMENDEDMEAN RECOMMENDEDTOTAL BMI IN 2ND AND 3RD TRIMESTERS WEIGHT GAIN <18.5 0.5 kg/week (1 lb/week) 12.5 – 18 kg (28 – 40 lb) 18.5 – 24.9 0.4 kg/week (1 lb/week) 11.5 – 16 kg (25 – 35 lb) 25.0 – 29.9 0.3 kg/week (0.6 lb/week) 7 – 11.5 kg (15 – 25 lb) >30.0 0.2 kg/week (0.5 lb/week) 5 – 9 kg (11 – 20 lb) After delivery, it can be tempting to try to lose weight immediately. The needs for good nutrition following delivery are similar to those in the second trimester of pregnancy, and a prenatal/ postnatal vitamin should be considered during this time.
6 November 2019
Pregnancy – Birth – PostpartumN E W B E G I N N I N G S
O ne of the biggest concerns of new and expecting parents is, “Will my baby sleep?” There are many books, resources and
products aimed specifically at infant sleep and millions of dollars are spent each year on marketing these products. However, as a parent you must look at these materials with a watchful eye, keeping your infant’s safety as your primary focus. Many products aimed at helping your baby fall asleep faster, better and longer are in fact not considered safe for infant sleep, and are not regulated by the Government of Canada. Use of many of these products and practices may increase your infant’s risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) or sleep-related death. “The actual cause or causes of SIDS is unknown. In 2004, SIDS accounted for 5% of all infant deaths (0 to 1 year of age) and 17.2% of post-neonatal deaths (28 days to 1 year of age). SIDS can occur at any time during the first year of life but peaks between 2 and 4 months, with fewer SIDS deaths occurring after 6 months” - (Public Health Agency of Canada – Joint Statement on Safe Sleep, 2011) This is alarming for new parents to read, but there are some practical ways to reduce the risk of SIDS: BREASTFEEDING – Breastfeeding has been linked to a lower incidence of SIDS. PROVIDE A SMOKE - FREE ENVIRONMENT - Smoking (both during pregnancy and after baby is born) has been shown to increase the risk of SIDS, as well as many other illnesses. BACK TO SLEEP - ALWAYS put your baby to sleep on their back, for all naps and nighttime, on a flat and firm surface. Inform any friends, family members or alternate caregivers that your baby must always be
placed on their back to sleep. Provide lots of time on their tummy when they are awake. PROVIDE A SAFE SLEEP ENVIRONMENT – Infants should sleep in their parents’ room for the first six months of life, in a crib, cradle or bassinette that meets current Canadians regulations with no extra items (including pillows, toys, heavy blankets, bumper pads). Infants should not sleep in adult beds, on sofas or other soft surfaces as this increases the risk of suffocation and sleep-related death. Car seats, swings, bouncers, infant carriers/slings/wraps, play pens, strollers or any other product marketed for infant sleep that is not a crib, cradle or bassinette should not be used to place baby to sleep. SOOTHERS – Use of a pacifier appears to provide a protective effect against SIDS. However, do not force your infant to take a soother if they are disinterested. The following websites were used when researching this article and all are excellent resources for further information regarding SIDS and safe infant sleep practices: • www.sidscanada.org • http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/hp-ps/dca-dea/stages-etapes/ childhood-enfance_0-2/sids/ssb_brochure-eng.php • www.publichealth.gc.ca/safesleep
SAFE SLEEP
Christa Weir-Cudney, RN, Children’s Aid Society
of London and Middlesex
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Newborn – Baby – Toddler A S T H E Y G R O W
TREATING TROUBLES with POOPING
Becky Biqi Chen was a resident in general pediatrics for three years at the Children’s
Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre. She is currently specializing in pediatric
gastroenterology during her fellowship at the British Columbia Children’s Hospital.
Last month, we discussed constipation and soiling. Part two of this article is an overview of how we treat troubles with
stooling, aka pooping. See your doctor for specific advice for your child. In general, stooling therapy has two phases when both constipation and soiling are present. Phase one involves clearing the large, hard stools from the large intestine, the colon. Phase two is maintenance to prevent buildup of stools and to allow the colon to return to normal size. The first step of clean out therapy involves oral medication. Your doctor may, depending on your child’s needs, suggest agents such as polyethylene glycol (PEG 3350, also known as Lax-a-Day or Restorlax), mineral oil or lactulose. These medications work by pulling water into the stool to make it softer to pass. They are gentle and well tolerated. Your child will not develop dependence. Sometimes, enemas or suppositories are used in the initial phase to clear out stools in the lower part of the colon. During clean-out, your child is expected to pass a lot of stool for one to two days. Schedule clean out when your child is not in school and a toilet is readily accessible. Discuss the best clean-out plan with your doctor. Once the colon is cleared of stool, the maintenance phase begins. Your child will usually continue taking a stool softener (like PEG 3350), but at a lower dosage than used for clean-out. The goal is to keep your child stooling regularly with one to two soft stools per day on a daily basis. Scheduled toilet sitting is vital. The best time to stool is at least twice daily, about 15 to 30 minutes after a meal. Make sure your child is seated comfortably on the toilet seat. Putting a stool under the feet for smaller children to raise
their knees higher than hips can help them bear down. Other lifestyle measures that will help regular stooling include getting enough fiber, fluids and physical activity. This process may sound easy but challenges can occur. Be patient. It may take months to years for the bowel function to normalize. Relapse is also common, especially if stool softeners are stopped too early. Avoiding anger or punishments is important for your child’s well-being. Often, soiling accidents are not intentional, your child may simply not be aware of stool leaking out. Get help from your doctor to troubleshoot problems that may come up.
8 November 2019
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10 November 2019
What does Remembrance Day signify for you?Ella: Remembrance Day is a time for me to remember and be thankful for all the soldiers who gave their lives for our country. Mikaeel: It makes me remember to not take my life for granted and makes me think of my grandpa.
What does peace mean to you?Ella: To me peace means no more violence. It means people settling their differences without thousands of people dying. It means calm and people feeling secure.Mikaeel: Peace is when things aren’t violent. Peace is the ability to go outside without being in fear for your life.
Freedom is ...Ella: Having rights as a human of any race, gender, religion or ethnicity. Freedom is being able to go outside, to school, to stores or anywhere and feeling safe. Mikaeel: The ability to say what you want and do what you want within reason, and not being controlled completely by the government. Freedom is a democracy not a dictatorship.
On Remembrance Day, what symbols come to mind (soldiers, poppies, Flanders Fields...)? Why are these important today?Ella: All of those symbols come to mind for me as well as crosses and wreathes because that is what my school makes every year to bring to the cenotaph. I think they are important because they help us to never forget which is the entire point of Remembrance Day. Mikaeel: For me poppies come to mind because poppies represent sleep, peace, and death.
If I could speak to a veteran, I would say ...Ella: I speak to some veterans at the nursing home that I volunteer at and I am so thankful for what they have done. But I also like to talk to them about what they did for the rest of their lives despite the war that took so much from them.Mikaeel: I would thank them for their service and ask “what is your most prominent memory from the war?”
Join 13-year-olds Mikaeel and Ella every month as they share perspectives on life as a child sees it.
WHY WE REMEMBER
TO NEVER FORGET
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Life as a Child Sees It K I D Z O N E
A Dad’s Point of View
Frank Emanuele is a proud father of two sons, a special education teacher,
and a director of Dad Club London.
BIG EMOTIONS The other day, at after school pick-up, my six year old son
seemed a bit down on himself and said “Daddy, nobody played at recess with me today”. I was quick to dismiss how he was feeling and deflect the statement with “I’m sure that’s not true. You have lots of friends”. Surprisingly, this did not cheer him up nor was it very sensitive of me, and while we continued to talk about it, I realized all I tried to do was change the way he was feeling. We’re all guilty of this. When our kids come to us with emotional news, we often try to redirect their feelings and change them for something more positive. We say things like “it’s not that bad” or “walk it off” over a scraped knee. Crying over a broken toy gets us reminding our kids of the hundreds of other toys they have. And how often have you had to tell your kids to calm down when they are super excited over a play date, ice cream, or going on a special trip. Our days are full of emotional ups and downs: traffic jams, the perfect cup of coffee, a colleague who is ill, or an upcoming dinner date. Our brains are constantly adjusting to the events and information around us as we regulate our feelings and behaviours. Our kids (no matter what age) are still learning these skills and they get easily caught up in the windstorm of big emotions. We often refer to them as dramatic, exaggerating, or over the top. And as fragile as our patience is some days, we need to take pause and remember to be the ones to model and teach how to deal with our feelings.
First, we should acknowledge the emotion. We need to be more present with them in that moment and make sure to tell them that it’s ok to feel this way. Label the feeling, restate the problem they are having, and talk about moments where you’ve felt the same way. Help your kids understand that what they feel is real and that you will share this moment with them. Get excited with them, cry with them, or laugh with them. In retrospect (and for my own future reference) our recess conversation should have been: “I’m sorry you’re feeling this way son. Not having anyone to play with at recess today must have been sad and lonely. We all feel that way sometimes. I remember when I was your age and my friends wanted to play soccer without me. Seeing you sad makes me sad too. Maybe we can think about ways to ask your friends to play with you. Tell me exactly what happened again”. Once the big emotion is shared, kids may be more open to redirection, encouragement, or problem solving for next time. Going through this process helps us to teach self-regulation and boost our kids’ emotional intelligence – both skills proven
to help with overall well-being and achievement. So next time your child has BIG emotions and the dramatic display is more than you can bear, take a breath and step
into their world for a moment.
12 November 2019
F R A N K L Y F A T H E R H O O D
HOW I can HELP my CHILD with DOWN SYNDROME
STAND and WALKF or those parents who have a child with Down Syndrome, some
of the many concerns that cross their minds include: What lies ahead? Will my child be able to walk? Will they have friends of their own? How can I enhance my child’s development? What can I do to help? Individuals with Down Syndrome exhibit many characteristics which can affect their ability to crawl, sit and walk. When children reach their motor milestones at a later date, this may impact their ability to interact and socialize with the environment and the people around them. As a parent, you want to do everything you can to optimize their growth and development, while letting them learn to explore on their own. Some of the characteristics that these children may possess include: ligament laxity, muscle hypotonia, lack of postural stability and joint hyper mobility. What does this mean? These children may not have the strength or ability to sit on their own, pull themselves to stand, or gain the balance they need to take their first steps. What can you do as a parent to give your child all the tools they need in order to learn to crawl, stand and walk?
Orthotic devices help give these children the support they require to stand for the first time. Depending on the amount of support they require or the amount of hypotonia, this will determine the exact orthotic intervention whether it be foot orthoses or supramalleolar orthoses (SMO). Foot orthoses help distribute the plantar pressures appropriately, support the arch and provide a solid base of support. Supramalleolar orthoses come up above the ankle bone and provide medial lateral support of the ankle, preventing increased calcaneal valgus and pronation. By keeping the feet aligned and directly under the child, we are giving them the support they need to remain standing. Both of these device types give children with Down Syndrome the support and foundation they need to take those first steps. This will in turn help them further explore their environment and surroundings.
Dawn MacArthur Turner MSc CO cCustom Orthotics of London
At Custom Orthotics of London Inc. we are
dedicated to providing our patients with an opportunity to
return to their highest level of functionality by developing
a treatment plan that meets their unique need.
We believe in earning the trust of our patients, not only by
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care, but also by treating each patient and their family
with sincere compassion.
Keeping You Ahead, One Step at a Time since 1987
T (519) 850-4721 www.customorthoticsoflondon.com
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Bracing You for LifeO N E S T E P A T A T I M E
Are you a family of dog lovers? If opening weekend line-ups at the New York City American Museum of the Dog are any
indication, you’re not alone. The Big Apple is ripe with kid-friendly museums and now there’s one more, this time focused on our fur buddies. Specifically, the American Museum of the Dog, run by the American Kennel Club (AKC), loves breeds. Understandably, because these are the people bringing us the annual Westminster Dog Show at Madison Square Gardens. Art features predominantly at this sparkling new three-level facility. You’ll see Victorian paintings of treasured terriers, portraits of presidents’ pups and almost life-sized Great Dane and bull dog ceramics. Watch the video installation of all-sized pups running by overhead. An antique carousel Mastif greets visitors near the door. But it’s the hands-on exhibits that occupy little fingers. At this museum, you can virtually train a dog, touch a table to learn about dog breeds, and have your photo taken by a large screen that then matches you with your canine twin – the latter’s a crowd pleaser eliciting belly laughs from everyone who tries it. Half the top floor is a library – that’s right, a library with nothing but canine-related books for all ages. During the summer, the “paws to read” kids’ program runs Tuesday and Friday, free with admission. Located in a plaza across from Grand Central Station (another iconic experience), the American Museum of the Dog is open Tuesday to Sunday. Admission is $15 for adults and $5 for kids.
Sherri Telenko is a freelance travel writer living in Southern Ontario. Please follow her adventures at www.dogtrotting.net
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK
FAMILY DOG museum in
14 November 2019
A R E W E T H E R E Y E T Must-See Travel Destinations
From Olivia’s Mom, Ashley: Her sassy personality, big goofy smile, chubby yet delicate hands, piercing blue eyes speckled with brush field spots, long strawberry blonde hair, her big bear hugs, her fighting spirit, her determination to succeed, and her ability to make anyone laugh at any given moment are just a few of the things that I love and adore about Olivia. Four years into being a Mom to a little one rocking an extra chromosome and I’ve still barely scratched the surface, but I can tell you that she has exceeded every expectation and dream I’ve ever had. Due to society and the lack of information surrounding Down Syndrome, it may sound scary, and overwhelming, but I promise you that it’s the furthest thing from that. The reason why I advocate, fight for inclusion, and continue to shout her worth every day is so that we can one day change others perspectives. No, it’s not always sunshine and rainbows, but the joyous moments far outweigh any of the rough patches. Sometimes though, even when we try to educate, it falls on deaf ears, but even that is not enough to silence me. In the end, no matter what I say or do, it’s Olivia that will be the one changing the views of other people and the world deserves more people like her. She is my world, my best friend, and the girl who made me a Mom. She radiates magic, light, and warmth and I know that together we can work on making this world a far more inclusive and accepting place to be.
From Emma’s Mom, Melissa: At 8:00PM on August 8TH, 2018 an emergency exit and a tiny infant’s sneeze changed our world forever. Chaos had surrounded us moments before, but now everything seemed calm and right. It’s as if our family of three took a big sigh of relief together for the first time. Emma’s suspected diagnosis was confirmed as Mosaic Down Syndrome, but it didn’t matter. We knew from the moment she arrived that – regardless of any chromosomal differences – her light would shine as bright as her sky-blue eyes. As I spent my days fawning over our teeny beauty, a protective instinct started building within me. I watched our girl grow and saw in her a happiness developing that was so pure and precious I felt driven to do whatever I could to make sure she receives the same unwavering kindness that she gives others. She deserves patience, acceptance, and respect. Even though she is more alike than different, there are people who will treat her as less than equal and that is why advocating became important to me. Emma has an aura about her that is impossible to explain. Watching her smile at strangers and spread joy like magic is what motivates me to help break down barriers that stand in her way because she is differently abled. I have new purpose now and every time I look into those beautiful almond shaped eyes, I am reminded of it.
NOTHING DOWN ABOUT IT
We were so excited to meet this month’s joyful cover kids, Olivia and Emma, and are honoured that their moms are sharing their stories with us. We asked them to share about their wonderful lives with a daughter with Down Syndrome, and why advocating is important to them.
Follow Us www.themomandcaregiver.com 15
Our Story S P E C I A L F E A T U R E
Each month we introduce you to a business that offers families in London and the surrounding area,
services or products you won’t want to miss.
In 1989, Old South London welcomed Grand Avenue Children’s Centre into its community and neighbourhood.
Grand Avenue Children’s Centre, a small non-profit child care centre licensed by the Ministry of Education, is just minutes before entering the city’s core. They have cared for hundreds of children aged three months to four years over the past 30 years.
Their philosophy is that the early years sets the foundation for establishing and nurturing the health, safety and well being of children. They are committed to providing the highest standards of care for children, family and the community.
Grand Avenue Children’s Centre is grateful to employ a warm and nurturing team of Registered Early Childhood Educators for their program, all with unique talents that they bring to the centre. The team prides itself on its low turnover and commitment to children and the centre.
“We are honoured that we have such a close relationship with our friends at Grand Wood Park Seniors Residence and Apartments and that we have been able to collaborate in building a very unique and enjoyable Intergenerational program based on music, movement and art. The relationships that are built between the children and the residences are meaningful and create a wonderful sense of belonging.”
“Our neighbourhood is a great participator in our program, with walks to our neighbourhood library, staff volunteering for our neighbourhood elementary school fun fair, and our own parent engagement evenings where local families interact with one another while enjoying their children through learning experiences and playful fun. The children also enjoy learning about the community with fun field trips to the apple orchard, children’s museum and other exciting learning venues in the city. The children especially love the school bus ride to and from these locations.”
Grand Avenue welcomes all families to their inclusive centre - please just give them a call or email. They would enjoy getting to know you and help you with your child care needs.It is like Winnie the Pooh says: ”Sometimes the smallest things take the most room in your heart”.
GRAND AVENUE CHILDREN’S CENTRE
TEL 519.434.3151 www.grandavechildrenscentre.com
Grand Avenue Children's Centre is a full-day, licensed, non-profit child care centre, located in London's Old South. An established centre, we have been providing quality programs for Infants, Toddlers and Preschoolers for over 30 years!
"Sometimes the smallest things take
up the most room in your heart."
16 November 2019
This Month’s Featured Business...B I Z S H O W C A S E
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11:30 am - Holiday Storytime withLondon Public Library
12:00 pm - Jingle Parade to welcome Santa
12:15 pm - Santa arrives!Visiting hours posted at Santa’s Playhouse
1:00 - 3:00 pm - Holiday Kids’ Club Craft
1:00 - 3:00 pm - Childreach POP-UP Imagination Playground
Santa Clausarrives
Saturday, November 16
P
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In this edition, we address some of the reasons clients give as to why they have never completed their Will and Power of Attorney documents. If you’re among the 51% of Canadians who don’t have a Will, you may find yourself saying… 1 “I SIMPLY DON’T HAVE MUCH.” Wills aren’t just about how much you leave behind. It’s about being prepared and not leaving your family with unnecessary expense and hassle. If you have children, it’s as much about leaving clear instructions as to who cares for them. Even if your Estate is modest, your Will can simplify things for your loved ones. Make it clear who gets what, where your children or pets go and what happens to your body. Without a Will, the cost of appointing someone to deal with even a small estate can be 10 times what it costs to prepare your documents. We give enough money to the government. Don’t give them every last cent! 2 “I’M YOUNG; I’LL GET AROUND TO IT WHEN MY FAMILY STOPS GROWING” Our Estate lawyers draft documents that grow with your family, regardless of future additions to it. We strive to draft Wills that
are flexible enough to accommodate changes to family size and property ownership. While major life events could require you to update your Will, most changes are contemplated by the Estate plan we put in place for you from the outset. And never forget, regardless of how young you are, we all have a deathday, just as we have a birthday; we just don’t know in which year it will fall. We don’t all live to a ripe old age. 3 “IT’S TOO COSTLY” We often hear of lawyers charging upwards of $1,000 to complete these documents, however since 2011, we have been committed to making these documents accessible. A Couple’s Package is only $350 plus HST and a Singles Package is $275 plus HST. We also offer home and hospital visits for an additional fee. Contact our Estate lawyers today for assistance with drafting your Wills and Powers of Attorney, at (519) 438-3131. www.jimdeanlaw.com
W I L L Y O U B E R E A D Y Law Prep for your Family
EXCUSES, EXCUSES, EXCUSESHow We Justify Not Doing Our Wills
18 November 2019
DECEMBER 7 & 8START.CA PERFORMANCE STAGEAT BUDWEISER GARDENS
budweisergardens.com • pawpatrollive.com/Canada
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Dr. I. Wonder is here to answer your questions regarding your furry family members. If you have a question, email it to us at [email protected]. Our team at Neighbourhood Pet Clinic will tap into their collective experience to answer your various questions.
A new home can bring new opportunities for our furry family members, such as a bigger backyard, nearby parks and trails, or a shorter commute for more quality time with their family. However, the process of moving can be confusing and stressful for our pets. BEFORE THE MOVE Packing household items can cause a pet to become unsettled, so consider doing so quietly and out of their sight. Species-specific pheromone sprays can also help reduce anxiety by sending “comforting messages” to the pet until they are in their new home and fully adjusted. For very high-stress pets, consider a vet visit to discuss sedative options for moving day. ON MOVING DAY Even if your pet has a microchip, they should also wear an identifi-cation collar, as many pets escape during the loading-up process. Keep in mind that cats may hide in moving boxes, so as you load up, keep your pet in a safe and quiet place away from all the activity. UPON ARRIVAL Offer comforting objects from home, food and water in a familiar dish, and distance them from unloading and unpacking. Dogs may
explore more readily, but cats may do better with a few days in a quiet room first. As your pet explores, give them lots of love (on their own terms) and treats, reminding small children to give them space. Pets pick up on the energies we project, so managing your own stress will also help your furry family member feel at ease. AS YOU SETTLE IN Update your pet’s ID, give them their own safe spot to retreat to, and always supervise them while outdoors, watching for backyard escape routes and toxic items. Routine and exercise can help your pet expend energy that might otherwise manifest as destructive tendencies. Over-grooming, chewing, scratching, and inappropriate urination can be signs of stress, but may also be indicative of an underlying problem or pain. In those situations, your veterinarian is your best resource to rule out illness and to help manage your pet’s anxiety. Moving can be one of the most stressful, but rewarding experiences of anyone’s life. Our pets are part of the family, and when the whole family feels at ease, that’s when a new house truly becomes a home!
MOVING with your FURRY FAMILY
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20 November 2019
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Jenn Giurgevich is a Registered Dietitian and former contract Professor at Brescia University College with a wealth of nutrition knowledge. Over the last 10 years,
Jenn has paired her love for nutrition and health with her undeniable love for fitness, working as both a personal trainer and a fitness instructor.
Yes, you heard me correctly. Green goblins, green monsters, green machine, franken-muffins…ok that’s enough. If you’re
looking for a creative way to sneak some extra greens into your kids’ lunchbox, these muffins are it! If you’re looking for a healthy, grab n’ go snack for YOUR lunches, well you’re in for a treat! These muffins do it all! The greatest thing about these muffins (if you can bite past the colour) is how awesome they taste. I bake a lot. I love to bake. I look for reasons to bake – kids’ birthdays, adult birthdays, bring your healthy treats to work day, bake sales, just because…the list goes on! As a registered dietitian, it’s in my blood to find ways to create recipes that are both healthy AND taste good. As challenging as that can be when baking, there are ways to make the perfect balanced treat. These muffins may not give you muscles like the Hulk, but they are a much better alternative to buying pre-made muffins or making muffins from a mix. SWEET SPINACH MUFFINS – Super Healthy Kids I can’t take credit for these jewels – the credit goes to Natalie, owner of Super Healthy Kids (check out her site – she has a ton of awesome recipes). INGREDIENTS • 18 standard cupcake liners • 2 cup flour, whole wheat • 1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon • 2 teaspoon baking powder • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/2 cup butter, unsalted
INSTRUCTIONS – you can add whatever veggies you like! 1 Preheat oven to 350 F, and line a muffin pan with paper liners (or use silicone muffin cups sprayed with cooking spray). 2 Combine all dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. 3 Heat the butter until just melted. Using a blender or food processor, blend the raw spinach, banana, honey, milk, egg, vanilla, and melted butter until completely pureed. 4 Pour the puree into the dry ingredient bowl, and fold together gently until just combined. (Do not over-mix.) 5 Spoon the batter into the muffin pan, and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the muffins are firm to the touch on top, but not quite browning. 6 Cool most or all of the way before serving. I’ve made these muffins a few times over the last month and have made a few adaptations that you might consider trying: • Reducing the honey to ¼ cup and adding ½ cup mini chocolate chips • Adding an extra banana or two (because I needed to use them up) • Adding more spinach – it’s amazing how much spinach you can add to these muffins. I buy the big 16 oz bag of fresh spinach (you don’t need to use baby spinach), double the recipe and use the whole bag of spinach! • The first time I made these I didn’t have any whole wheat flour on hand, so I used All Purpose flour. They turned out great. You could also do half and half if you don’t want to use all whole wheat flour. I hope you enjoy these as much as I do. My freezer is full of them! Ha! Yours in health, fitness, and healthy treats.
INCREDIBLE HULK
• 3/4 cup milk • 1/2 cup honey • 1 large banana • 6 ounce raw baby spinach (by weight) • 1 large egg • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
theMUFFINS
22 November 2019
Family Cooking Made EasyF O O D F O R T H O U G H T
THINK RICH – in moisture that is. From our skincare to our makeup, it’s time to opt for more hydrating formulas. For day, try a cream-based foundation to give skin a dewy glow with flawless coverage. For night, choose a rich face cream to deeply nourish your skin while you sleep. LIP LOVE – Our lips are very delicate and are constantly exposed to environmental factors. Treat your pout by using nourishing lip products throughout the day. A great way to do this is by layering your lip-look by starting with a lip balm and finishing with a hydrating lipstick or gloss. HAND RESCUE – Keep hands and cuticles smooth and soft by using hand cream multiple times a day. Look for rich formulas with quick absorbency to give you all the moisture without the
residue. Keep your favourite cream by your bed, in your purse, at your desk, and in the kitchen. HAIR MASKS – Hair is like a delicate fabric that responds dramatically to extreme temperatures. Keep your tresses looking luscious with weekly hair treatments. Hair masks help to strengthen, hydrate and deeply nourish hair while protecting it from environmental damage. BODY BUTTER – Before you cover up with all those layers, drench your skin in a little luxury using a skin-silkening body butter. These creamy formulas are rich in texture AND in results, providing intensive moisture all day long.
Lisa Aquilina is a beauty and wellness professional who strives to help women take care of themselves and support their well-being.
MOISTURE MAKEOVER
Cooler temperatures can dramatically affect us from head to toe, causing dryness, sensitivity, and dullness. Here are a few tips on how to give your current beauty regime a moisture-makeover.
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