April 06, 2013

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith

Family

– Triple P Parenting - Disciplines is not a dirty word - page 18

– Steps for Happy Stepfamilies - page 6 & 7

– What is “play” & where can we fi nd it? - page 10

2 CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6 SPRING 2013 Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family SPRING 2013 CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6 3

Table of Contents


FamilyFamily4 Early Years Partnerships

Virtual Shopping Tour

Stepfamilies and Traditional Families

Does Your Toddler Need Formula?

School District Offers Strong Start

Central Island Multicultural Society

What Is Play and Where Can We Find It?

Boys and Girls Club of Central Island

Drop-in Activity Calendars

Help Children Grow

Choosing Dental Products for Kids

Discipline is Not a Dirty Word

What is Triple P?

Little Ferns Offers Variety/Children First Initiative

Resource Centre Supports Families

Parent Child Mother Goose

Family Activities at Ladysmith Centre

The Town of Ladysmith

Development Centre Offers Help

VIHA Speech & Language

56-789

10

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Cover and inside photography by

11-14

19The Greater Nanaimo and Ladysmith Early Years

Partnerships are pleased to present the 14th edition of the Greater Nanaimo Ladysmith Family.

The magazine is a collaborative effort of bothcommunities who have come together to create anawareness of the importance of the early years. It is with great appreciation that the partnerships acknowledge the funding and support provided by Success by 6, Children First and the Nanaimo Bulletin/Black Press.

A total of 40,000 copies of the Greater Nanaimo& Ladysmith Family Magazine will be distributedin Ladysmith and Nanaimo through the LadysmithChronicle and Nanaimo News Bulletin.

Copies are also available at parks and recreation,health units, libraries, participating businesses and family agencies.

The views expressed by the advertisers do notnecessarily represent the opinions of the editorial committee of this magazine.


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For more information about our programs, please contact the ECD Team at our Health Centre:

250-753-6578

Tillicum Lelum AboriginalFriendship Centre offers a holistic approachto programming and services which nurtures

the various potentials of families and young children.

We have a variety of Early ChildhoodProgramming including Building Better

Babies, Prenatal support, Creating Healthy Families, Island Treasure Boxes & Walking

witwith Elders, Language and Literacy Programsa Mom’s, Dad’s and Babes Group, Children’s Mom’s Dad’s and Babes Group Children’s

Wellness Program and much more!

BY SHELLEY ANDERSONWe know that it takes a village to

raise a child. The healthy development of our

children is strongly influencedby the fact that we all live in sucha caring community, one that has many service providers and partners who truly care about the health and well being of our young children.

We know the experiences we havein our early years in life influencehow are brains become “wired” and this can last through our entire lives. As partners, we know how important the first six years of a young child’s life are and thata supportive, caring environmentrich in stimulation promotes thehealthy development of our young children.

The dictionary definition of part-nership refers to “one who joins in

activity with another or others,” or“a player on the same team.”

The service providers and partners who put this magazinetogether are all members of the Greater Nanaimo and LadysmithEarly Years Partnerships.

It is with pleasure that we include articles about the service providers and partners who offer enriching programs and resourcesfor our community.

We hope that these informa-tional articles help you, the reader,understand the advantages and opportunities that the service pro-viders and partners offer to fami-lies and young children.

The hope is to communicate the best and most current information to the most important partner ofall – the parents, grandparents,caregivers and extended family of our young children.

Early Years Partnerships:

If you would like additional information about the Early Years Partnerships, pleasecontact:

Greater Nanaimo Early Years PartnershipElizabeth Pennell, Early Years LearningCoordinator, School District 68, [email protected]

Ladysmith Early Years PartnershipAnita Mcleod, Town of Ladysmith Community Services Coordinator, [email protected]

Success By 6, Central Vancouver IslandShelley Anderson, Success By 6 Coordinator, www.successby6.bc.ca or [email protected]

Children First, Nanaimo & LadysmithAmber Bruner, Children First Community Coordinator, [email protected]

Who we are and how we can help

Registration now on! NanaimoParks, Recreation & Culture Spring & Summer Activity Guide is now available at the following locations:

CITY OF NANAIMO

PA R K S R E C R E AT I O N & C U LT U R E

H A R B O U RT H E C I T Y

www.nanaimo.ca ireg.nanaimo.ca 250-756-5200

Or check the guide out online at


BY EILEEN BENNEWITHPlanning trips to the grocery store

gets more complicated every day. There are just too many differentfoods to choose from. Have you ever wished that you could hire a dietitianto walk you through the grocery store and answer your nutrition questions? Healthy Families BC’s “Shopping Sense” is a web resource designed to take you through a virtual grocerystore and help you to sort out your shopping questions.

The program begins with prepara-tion by helping you to plan weeklymeals and shows you how to make up a shopping list.

There are tips on how to use Canada’sFood Guide to plan menus and ofcourse a suggestion to eat before youhead to the store. Shopping on anempty stomach can lead to impulse purchases of less healthy foods.

Once you have prepared a list, youmove on to the virtual grocery store. Using videos, graphics and pop up mes-sages, a registered dietitian then takesyou through the various sections of the

store including the produce, dairy, bak-ery, meat and alternatives, and fats and oils sections. At each section, there are helpful tips on making healthy choices,nutrient content of the foods, reading

labels, and answering common ques-tions.

At the end of the shopping sessionyou return to the kitchen where help-ful tips on food storage and food safetywill help you to keep foods at their best. There is information on where to putfoods in the refrigerator, how to rotatefoods to the front for first use and howto repackage and label foods for fresh-ness. There are also good tips on thaw-ing meats; hand washing and washing produce before use.

The website can be accessed at www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca Just click on thegreen button called “Shopping Sense”. While at this website, check out themany other tips and ideas abouthealthy eating.

Many grocery chains offer supermar-ket tours led by registered dietitians. They are all excellent ways to have your nutrition questions answeredright at the point of purchase. The great part about a virtual tour is thatyou can do it from the comfort of yourown home.

The virtual shopping tour


BY DIANNE MARTINTelevision, movies, and fairy tales

create confusion about stepfamilies.It is time to set the record straight:stepfamilies are very different fromtraditional families.

On the surface, both the step and the traditional family look much the same: both have a mom, dad, and kids but that is all they have in com-mon.

In traditional families, everyone is related by blood.

Babies join the family one at a timeand live with their parents in onehome.

Everybody understands the house rules, routines, and schedules. Dis-agreements regarding parenting,finances, and other issues are quickly resolved.

In stepfamilies, children have amuch different situation.

They are members of two separate families: their birth mother’s and

their birth father’s. Only some people in the stepfamily

are related by blood.Not everyone lives in the same

home.If both birthparents have entered

into new relationships, the childrenwill have two different sets of steps-iblings.

Children may become confusedabout who is a member of their fam-ily.

Children often find the move into a stepfamily confusing. There aremany changes and new house rulesto learn.

Stepchildren who need to switch schools leave important friends,teachers, and neighbours behind.

In the traditional family, the couple has time to work out their parenting style over a time.

In contrast, the stepparents become an ‘instant family’ and mustquickly tackle differences in their

approaches.A stepparent may think, “I raised

my children with no problem, so it should be easy to raise stepchildren.”

They may become puzzled and dis-couraged when they run into difficul-ties.

Stepparents who move too quickly into the parenting role may createunnecessary conflict with their step-children.

Stepparents who take a slowerapproach are on the right track.

Birthparents who have one set of rules for their children and another for their stepchildren are on a path to disaster.

Treat all the children, including visiting children, fairly and equally. Insist that all the youngsters followthe house rules.

Showing favouritism will quickly breed resentment.

Finances are simple in traditionalfamilies.

Stepfamilies and traditional families:Is there a difference?

Celebrating 25 years of Quality Christian Education

EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION GROUNDED IN FAITH

Pre-School30 months - 5 years

Primary SchoolK-Grade 5

Middle SchoolGrade 6 - 8

High SchoolGrade 9 - 12

CURRENTLY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

FOR 2013 - 2014 SCHOOL YEAR

For more information or to arrange a tour of the schoolcontact Dawna Ferris at 250-754-4512 ext. 3

or email [email protected]

Nanaimo Christian School, 198 Holland Drive, Nanaimo, B.C.

www.ncsnanaimo.com

Kingdom Kids Preschool Is Offering the

Ready, Set, Learn Program On April 10th 1-2:30 pm


Sat., June 8 - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

However, managing money in step-families is not so easy.

Each adult will have their own ideasabout handling money.

Finances often become a problemarea.

Stepparents may find it easier to setup a joint household account, while maintaining separate bank accountsto pay their individual bills.

The first five years of living in astepfamily are the most challenging. There are many issues to be resolved.

Merging two single parent families is a lot like merging two businesses.You need action plans, job descrip-tions, guidelines, and lots of discus-sions. So, it is important that couple work as a team.

With so much happening in the early years, the couple often find theyhave little private time together.

It is very important to have regular date nights.

These precious moments will builda strong and enduring couple rela-tionship. So take a walk, go for coffee, or take in a movie.

There is just one rule – do not talkabout the children. The intent of hav-ing a date is to keep the love strong and vibrant.

Successful stepfamilies that areopen to making changes, have a good sense of humor, are willing to lis-ten and compromise, will grow andthrive.

◆Dianne Martin is a stepmom, birth

mom, registered social worker and

Certified Stepfamily Counsellor. Combining her intimate knowledge

of stepfamily dynamics with her pro-fessional experience, Martin offers adynamic array of specialized counsel-ling and educational programs for stepfamilies and single parents plan-ning to remarry.

Programs and Services

Complimentary 30-minute telephoneconsultation

Counselling:Individual, couple, and family

counselling;Cyber counselling (telephone, e-mail, or

video calls) available for those who are unable to attend traditional counselling sessions.

Children’s programs:Stepfamily Transitions, Adjustments, and

Grief Counselling;Pre-Remarriage Preparation Program ;Co-Parenting Coaching;Empowerment and Support Groups.

Educational Programs: Workshops & Training EventsProfessional Development Workshops

Community Presentation and Speaking Engagements:

Call to book Dianne MartinTelephone: 250-591-8184 E-mail: dianne@

diannemartinandassociates.com353 Maple St., Nanaimo, B.C., V9S 2J3

Social Media:Website and blog: www.

DianneMartinAndAssociates.com Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/

stepfamilyof7Twitter: @stepfamilyof7


Kool Toys & Teaching Tools

#102-2517 Bowen Road250-585-1778

help your child get the best start

www.koolandchild.comwww.koolandchild.comwww.koolandchild.com

Educational toys for your child to make

learning fun!

Toddlers are notoriously picky eat-ers. It comes with their age. They are challenging authority and trying tofind out where their limits are. What a toddler doesn’t eat at ten o’clock theywill eat again at three o’clock. Parentswho are unaware of this fact may fret that their toddler is not eating enough.

In an attempt to make toddlers eatall of the foods that they need for good health, caregivers will cater to tod-dlers, offering them an assortment of foods which they know they will eat. When this happens, toddlers respondby eating even less. The object of thegame is to see how many hoops they can get their personal chef to jump through. After trying a vast assort-ment of meal items, all rejected by thetoddler, parents will give up in frustra-tion.

The food industry who understandstoddler behavior has come to the res-cue with formula designed for fussytoddlers. Parents are convinced thatall they have to do is give unlimitedbottles of this formula and they won’thave to worry if their toddler does not

eat the family foods.If only it was that simple. Toddlers

need food, not formula in order to learnto eat well. Teaching toddlers to have a good relationship with food can only happen if they come to the table hun-gry. A toddler who is full of formula,milk or juice will have no appetite for

healthy foods. The formula alone willnot provide all of the nutrients foundin a variety of healthy foods.

Toddlers eat better if they are offeredfamily foods served at the family table. Do not cater to them if they say they don’t like it. If they do not eat, assume that they are not hungry and take the food away.

The next time food is offered, theywill be hungry and they will probablyeat what is offered.

When introducing foods, children need to try a food at least ten timesbefore they know whether they likeit or not. If a food has been rejected, do not avoid that food. Keep offering it whenever it comes up on the family menu so your child will have the oppor-tunity to learn to like it.

Toddlers should drink water for thirst and homo milk at mealtimes. Limit milk to two cups per day because more than that will fill them up. Keepbetween meal snacks very small andoffer only water to drink so toddlers will come to the table hungry andready to eat real food.

Does your toddler need formula?

“Putting Families First!”

Jill Dashwood

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Early Learning Programs:* Child Care (2 months 5 years)* PreschoolFamily Resource Programs:* Family Place Drop in* Parent Child Mother Goose* Parent Education and SupportMiddle Years Programs:* Child Care (5 12 years)* Drop in Recreation Nights* Girls GroupYouth Programs:* Full Throttle Dragon Boat Team* South Side Teen Centre

For More Information Please Contact Us:Phone: 250 754 3215 Fax: 250 754 4771Email: [email protected]: www.bgccvi.com

We provide a safe, supportive place wherechildren, youth, and families can experience newopportunities, overcome barriers, build positive

relationships, and develop the confidence and skillsfor life.

Services Include:

Fun for the

WHOLE FAMILY“Proud of the Past,

Poised for the Future!”

• FREE Kids Zone • 4-H Petting Farm• Amusement • Music & More!

www.viex.ca 250.758.3247

AUGUST 16, 17 & 18BEBAN PARK FAIRGROUNDS

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School district offers Strong Start programsNanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools

are pleased to offer families accessibil-ity to eight StrongStart programs situ-ated across the district.

The programs are supported and funded by the Ministry of Education.

They are free to families of childrenaged 0 – 5.

The programs are accessible to all families based on a drop in model. You cannot drop your child off at this pro-gram.

The program is planned with theunderstanding that children learnthrough play.

Carefully selected materials and activities will promote the social, emo-tional, physical, cognitive and early literacy development in each child.

Families will: Explore with sand and water;Build with blocks;Climb and slide;Learn songs, enjoy music;Read and listen to stories; And access many other developmen-

tally appropriate resources and activi-ties.

Parents, grandparents and caregiv-ers are welcome to attend any programaccording to their schedule.

Each program is open daily Monday to Friday for three hours. Healthysnacks are provided daily.

If you are a paid child care provider you are welcome to attend but we ask that you bring not more than two chil-dren.

Your child’s birth certificate isrequired in order to register which you

do when you first visit the program. Upon a first visit please go to the

school office and you will be directed to the program room.

Check School District 68’s websitefor center addresses and times at www.sd68.bc.ca/ parents/programs/ earlylearning.

For questions and more information, please contact Elizabeth Pennell, coor-dinator of early learning, at [email protected] or phone 250-740-3516.

The Central Vancouver IslandMulticultural Society in Nanaimo hasbeen providing services to immigrants andthe community in the central Vancouver Island region since 1979.

Moving to a new country is a huge and stressful undertaking and it takes time to learn how things are done in your new home. Our vision is to ensure thatimmigrants and diverse peoples flourish in this community.

At the Immigrant Welcome Centre, settlement workers provide information

and support services that ease anewcomer’s settlement process.

For parents with babies and preschoolchildren, we have a licensed childcarein which they can register their childrenwhile they attend English classes or workshops and appointments. We alsohave parenting groups and workshopsto assist with the cultural differencesparents may encounter.

For more information, please visit www.cvims.org or drop in at 101–319 Selby St; next door to the train station.

CrowderCroowderJeanJeannMember of Parliament for Nanaimo-Cowichan

www.jeancrowder.ca [email protected]

Proud to support opportunities for early childhood development!

Tollfree: 1-866-609-9998


BY CHRIS BARFOOTThe concept of play can mean many

different things to many different people. According to Google it canbe defined as activity engaged in forenjoyment and recreation.

Can you remember when you were achild? What did you do for fun? Manyof the parents we interact with on a regular basis say that times are differ-ent now, with the freedoms we grew up with may no longer be available to ourchildren.

We hear things like “it was safer to go out and play back when we were younger than it is today.”

Is it really much worse today? Not according to the 2006 Crime Statistics in Canada that have crime rates inCanada close to the same level to what they were in the 1970s.

What could it be then that gives thisimpression that unstructured free playis so dangerous?

Maybe it is an increase in news cover-age of crime or the bad stories we readin social media that are creating thisparental fear and the need to shelterour children in a controlled and safeenvironment in order to keep them safe.

Can it be just that children today sim-ply do not have as much downtime to just play as in previous generations?

By downtime we don’t mean sitting quietly playing videos games, we mean good old fashion fun, the kind that lets you be you without a care in the world.

Why is it so important that today’s children have free play?

There are the many obvious physical, social and emotional reasons.

Some of the physical benefits arethat activity can build healthy hearts, muscles, bones, and of course to battle childhood obesity which is increasing at alarming rates.

There are also the social and emo-tional benefits.

Play can make your child feel better about them and build self confidence.

Unstructured active play assists in the learning of social skills such as

sharing, taking turns and in some cases resolving conflicts amongstpeers.

There are many statistics and stud-ies that show how children see playing with friends as being one of the mostpopular past times they wish to engage in.

What can we do as parents to turn the tables and bring active play back? Here are some suggestions from ActiveHealthy Kids Canada who strive to be atrusted source for “powering the move-ment to get kids moving.”

Have “no screen time zones” sched-uled each day to encourage activerather than sedentary free play.

Perhaps it is as simple as creat-ing access to safe, open areas, either indoors or out, where children canmove about freely. Why not try one of the many City of Nanaimo Parks and Playgrounds.

Why not add balls and toys to encour-age more vigorous play at home, and inchildcare and community settings?

If it is because your child has no free time, consider reducing the number ofscheduled activities.

Taking time to support and encour-age opportunities for safe, free play could be one of the most accessible and cost effective solutions to increasing your child’s level of physical activity and emotional growth.

For a list of parks and playgroundswithin the City of Nanaimo please call 250-756-5200 or visit www.nanaimo.ca.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of CentralIsland provides a safe, supportive placewhere children and youth and families can experience new opportunities, overcomebarriers, build positive relationships anddevelop the confidence and skills for life. Our programs run in Chemainus, Ladysmith, Nanaimo, Lantzville and the Comox Valley. Our Early Years programsand services in the Nanaimo-Ladysmith area include:

Family Resource ProgramsOur Family Resource Programs provide a

place for Children and Parents/Caregivers to interact in a warm, safe and nurturing environment. We provide support andinformation in five core areas of service:family support; play-based learning; early learning and literacy; parent education andsupport; information and referrals.

Services include:Chase River Club◆ Family Place Drop-in Sessions◆ Parent-Child Mother Goose ProgramLantzville Club◆ Parent-Child Mother Goose Groups-

Lantzville and Chase River Clubs◆ Parent Educational Workshops, Triple

P and guest speakers◆ Family Place Drop-in Sessions

Early Child Development ProgramsOur early learning programs focus

on age appropriate hands on learning by using a variety of materials. Early Childhood Educators ensure children’s growth and development through exploring in played-based learning activities such asblocks, puzzles, house centre, dress up, art, stories, music, drama, science andoutdoor activities. These opportunities

help children create friendships, and learn independence as well as ensure each child’s individual needs are met in a safeenvironment.

Services include:Ladysmith Child and Family Centre offers

the following Early Childhood Programs:◆ Group Child Care under 36 months;◆ Group Child Care 30 months to

School Aged;Chase River Club offers:◆ Station 4 Daycare-Group Child Care

30 months to School Aged;◆ Preschool – 30 months to School

Aged;Nanaimo Club offers:◆ Bright Adventures– Group Child Care

30 months to School Aged;◆ Seeds of Empathy.

For more, please visit www.bgccvi.com.

What is play and where can we find it?

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family SPRING 2013 Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family SPRING 2013 CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6 1111

(free or low-cost)

* Parent Child Mother Goose® Program. This group experiencefor parents and their babies and young children focuses on thepleasure and power of usingrhymes, songs and storiestogether.

* LRCA Volunteer Counselling Program. Please call250-245-3079 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

* LRCA Family & Youth SupportServices. Please call250-245-3079 for more information or to book an appointment.

* Please also check with LadysmithParks & Recreation & Culture foradditional recreational programs for parents and preschoolers.250-245-6424

* Please also check with LadysmithRegional Library for additional programs for parents andpreschoolers. (250) 245-2322

*Items marked with an asterisk (*) requirepre-registration. Please telephone fi rst toconfi rm times and locations of all drop-inevents or to register for those requiringpre-registration.

Ladysmith Primary StrongStart Centre

(birth - 5 years)

9:00 am - 12:00 pmLadysmith Primary School

250-740-3516Ladysmith Family and Friends (LaFF)

Family Resource Program

Suggested donation $2/family9:30 am - 12:00 pm (drop-in)

Aggie Hall250-210-0870

Born Healthy Prenatal/Postnatal

Individual Program

10:00 am - 1:30 pmLadysmith Resources Centre Association

250-245-3079

Ladysmith Primary StrongStart Centre (birth – 5 years)




Suggested donation $2/family9:30 am – 12:00 pm (drop-in)


Born Healthy Prenatal/Postnatal Group Program


250-245-3079

Ladysmith Dads’ Group

(Drop-in breakfast for dads & their children)10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Ladysmith Resources Centre Association250-245-3079

Ladysmith Primary StrongStart Centre(birth – 5 years)






Adventures in Early Literacy * (3 – 5years)

9:45 am – 12:00 pmLadysmith Resources Centre Association

250-245-3079Born Healthy Prenatal/Postnatal

Individual Program


250-245-3079Infant to School Age Immunization Clinic

by Appointment*

(Vancouver Island Health Authority)1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Ladysmith Community Health Centre250-755-3342

LaFF’s Family Frolic Drop-in Gym Time

(walking – 6 years) Suggested donation $2/family

5:45 pm - 6:45 pmFrank Jameson Community Centre

250-245-6424

FR

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Ladysmith Primary StrongStart Centre(birth – 5 years)






Healthy Beginnings (prenatal to 12 months)

(Vancouver Island Health Authority)10:00 am – 11:30 am


Public Health Nurse On Site For Drop-In(Vancouver Island Health Authority)

1:00 pm - 3:00 pmLadysmith Community Health Centre

250-755-3388

Ladysmith Primary StrongStart Centre (birth - 5 years)






Parent Child Mother Goose * (crawling - 30 months)

9:45 am - 10:45 am Ladysmith Resources Centre Association

250-245-3079LaFFternoon (LaFF) (0-6 year olds)


Suggested donation $2/family12:15 pm – 1:45 pm (drop-in)


Parent-Child Mother Goose *(birth – crawling)

12:45 pm - 1:45 pm Ladysmith Resources Centre Association

250-245-3079Infant to School Age Immunization Clinic

by Appointment*



12 CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 612 CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6 SPRING 2013SPRING 2013 Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith FamilyGreater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

Island Treasure Box Family Literacy

Program* (birth – 6 years)

(Tillicum Lelum Health Centre)As per the participating families request.

At the participating families home.250.753.6578

Fairview StrongStart (birth - 5 years)8:45 am - 11:45 am

Fairview Community School250.740.3516

McGirr StrongStart (birth - 5 years)8:45 am - 11:45 am

McGirr Elementary School250.740.3516

Rutherford StrongStart

(birth - 5 years)8:45 am - 11:45 am

Rutherford Elementary School250.740.3516

Georgia Ave. StrongStart

(birth - 5 years)9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Georgia Avenue Community School250.740.3516

Bayview StrongStart (birth - 5 years)9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Bayview Elementary School250.740.3516

Infant to School Age Immunization Clinic

Drop-In

(Vancouver Island Health Authority)9:30 am - 4:30 pm

Tillicum Lelum Health Centre250.753.6578

Family Place (parent and tot drop-in)

9:30 am - 11:30 amLantzville Boys and Girls Club

250.390.4001Woodbank StrongStart

(birth - 5 years)9:30 am - 12:30 pm

Woodbank Primary School250.740.3516

La Leche League Meeting

(breastfeeding support)10:00 am - 12:00 pm

(Second Monday of the month)Call for location.

250.754.5853(Bridget)

Creating Healthy Families

11:00 am - 1:00 pmTillicum Lelum Health Centre

250.753.6578Bellies to Babies and Beyond * (pregnant

women & parents of infants)12:30 pm – 3:00pm

Princess Royal Family Centre(child-minding available)

250.753.7470Quarterway StrongStart

(birth - 5 years)12:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Quarterway Elementary School250.740.3516

Breastfeeding Centre Drop-In


Nanaimo Health Centre250.755.3388


Program* (birth – 6 years) (Tillicum Lelum Health Centre)

As per the participating families request.At the participating families home.

250.753.6578Fairview StrongStart

(birth - 5 years) 8:45 am - 11:45 amFairview Community School

250.740.3516McGirr StrongStart

(birth - 5 years) 8:45 am - 11:45 amMcGirr Elementary School

250.740.3516Rutherford StrongStart

(birth - 5 years) 8:45 am - 11:45 amRutherford Elementary School

250.740.3516Georgia Ave. StrongStart

(birth - 5 years) 9:00 am - 12:00 pmGeorgia Avenue Community School

250.740.3516Bayview StrongStart

(birth - 5 years) 9:00 am - 12:00 pmBayview Elementary School

250.740.3516Infant to School Age

Immunization Clinic Drop-In

(Vancouver Island Health Authority)9:00 am - 11:30 am Nanaimo Health Centre

250.755.3342Parent-Child Mother Goose *

(6 – 12 months) 9:30 am – 10:30 amLantzville Boys and Girls Club

250.390.4001Infant to School Age Immunizations Drop-In


Tillicum Lelum Health Centre 250.753.6578Family Place

(parent and tot (birth-6years) drop-in)9:30 am - 11:00 am

Chase River Boys and Girls Club 250.753.2464

Pacifi cCARE Drop - In Playgroup

(birth - 5 years) 9:30 am - 10:30 amWoodgrove Centre (near food court)

250.756.2022Woodbank StrongStart

(birth - 5 years) 9:30 am - 12:30 pmWoodbank Primary School 250.740.3516

Baby Rhyme Time Drop - In

(birth - 17 months) 10:30 am - 11:00 amHarbourfront Library 250.753.1154

Parent-Child Mother Goose *

(birth – 4 years) 10:30 am - 12:00 pmGabriola Island HOPE Centre 250.247.8730

Building Better Babies

(drop-in pre-natal class) 11:00 am - 12:30 pmTillicum Lelum Health Centre

250.753.6578Cooking Out of the Box

(one Tuesday per month) 11:00 am - 1:00 pmNanaimo Women’s Centre 250.753.0633

Quarterway StrongStart

(birth - 5 years) 12:30 pm - 3:30 pmQuarterway Elementary School 250.740.3516


by Appointment *


Princess Royal Family Centre250.739.5845

Preschool Storytime *

(3 - 5 years) 1:30 pm - 2:00 pmWellington Library 250.758.5544

Healthy Beginnings (prenatal - 12 months)(Vancouver Island Health Authority)

1:30 pm - 3:00 pmNanaimo Health Centre 250.755.3388

Young Moms Group *

2:30 pm – 4:30 pmTillicum Lelum Health Centre 250.753.6578

Family Storytime *

(all ages welcome) 6:30 pm - 7:00 pmWellington Library 250.758.5544

Dads Make a Difference

7:00 pm - 9:00 pmNanaimo Men’s Resource Centre

250.716.1551


Program* (birth – 6 years)(Tillicum Lelum Health Centre)


250.753.6578Fairview StrongStart (birth - 5 years)

8:45 am - 11:45 amFairview Community School 250.740.3516


McGirr Elementary School 250.740.3516Rutherford StrongStart (birth - 5 years)

8:45 am - 11:45 amRutherford Elementary School 250.740.3516Georgia Ave. StrongStart (birth - 5 years)

9:00 am - 12:00 pmGeorgia Avenue Community School

250.740.3516Bayview StrongStart (birth - 5 years)

9:00 am - 12:00 pmBayview Elementary School 250.740.3516

Woodbank StrongStart (birth - 5 years)9:30 am - 12:30 pm

Woodbank Primary School 250.740.3516Infant to School Age Immunization Clinic Drop-In



Family Place (parent and tot drop-in)9:30 am - 11:30 am

Lantzville Boys and Girls Club250.390.4001

Pacifi cCARE Drop - In Playgroup

(birth - 5 years) 10:00 am - 11:00 amCountry Club Centre (near Sport Mart)

250.756.2022Tiny Tots Storytime * (birth - 5 years)

10:30 am - 11:00 amCountry Club Centre (near Coles)

250.758.5544Toddler Storytime Drop-In

(18 - 35 months) 10:30 am - 11:00 amHarbourfront Library 250.753.1154

Moms, Dads and Babies Drop-In

(pre-natal & postpartum)11:00 am - 12:00 pm


Baby Rhyme Time Drop - In

(birth - 17 months) 11:15 am - 11:45 amHarbourfront Library 250.753.1154

Prenatal Lunch Bunch


Princess Royal Family Centre 250.739.5845Quarterway StrongStart (birth - 5 years)

12:30 pm - 3:30 pmQuarterway Elementary School 250.740.3516



Nanaimo Health Centre 250.755.3388Infant to School Age Immunization Clinic

by Appointment *


Nanaimo Health Centre 250.755.3342

FR

EE


* Items marked with an asterisk (*) require pre-registration. Please telephone fi rst to confi rm times and locations of all drop-in programs or to register for those requiringpre-registration.

* Parent Child Mother Goose® Program. This group experience for parents and their babies and young children focuses on the pleasureand power of using rhymes, songs and stories together.

* Prenatal Classes. Free classes are offered at the Nanaimo Health Centre (VIHA) throughout the year. Please call 250-755-3342 for information and to register.

* Infant to School Age Immunization Clinics areoffered at the Nanaimo Health Centre (VIHA) throughout the week. Please call 250-755-3342to make an appointment or for drop in times.

* Gabriola Island Monthly Infant to School Age Immunization Clinics by appointment. Call 250-755-3342 for an appointment.

* Please also check with Nanaimo Parks,Recreation & Culture for additional recreational programs for parents and preschoolers. 250-756-5200


Program* (birth – 6 years)(Tillicum Lelum Health Centre)


250.753.6578Fairview StrongStart (birth - 5 years)

8:45 am - 11:45 amFairview Community School 250.740.3516


McGirr Elementary School 250.740.3516Rutherford StrongStart (birth – 5 years)

8:45 am - 11:45 amRutherford Elementary School 250.740.3516

Georgia Ave. StrongStart (birth - 5 years)9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Georgia Avenue Community School 250.740.3516Bayview StrongStart (birth - 5 years)

9:00 am - 12:00 pmBayview Elementary School 250.740.3516Infant to School Age Immunization Clinic

by Appointment *

(Vancouver Island Health Authority)9:00 am - 11:30 am

Princess Royal Family Centre 250.739.5845Infant to School Age Immunization Clinic

Drop-In


Tillicum Lelum Health Centre 250.753.6578Woodbank StrongStart (birth – 5 years)

9:30 am - 12:30 pmWoodbank Primary School 250.740.3516

Rug Huggers

(parent and tot drop-in, birth - 4 years old)10:00 am - 11:45 am

Gabriola Island HOPE Centre

250.247.8730Healthy Beginnings (prenatal - 12 months)


Nanaimo Health Centre 250.755.3388Toddler Storytime* (18 - 36 months)

10:15 am – 10:45 amWellington Library 250.758.5544

Preschool Storytime Drop-In (3 - 5 years)10:30 am - 11:15 am

Harbourfront Library 250.753.1154Parent-Child Mother Goose *

(6 – 12 months) 11:00 am – 12:00 pmChase River Boys and Girls Club

250.753.2464Building Better Babies

(birth - 6 months)11:00 am - 12:00 pm

Tillicum Lelum Health Centre 250.753.6578Baby Storytime* (birth - 18 months)

11:15 am - 11:45amWellington Library 250.758.5544

Cooking Out of the Box

(one Thursday per month) 12:00 pm - 2:00 pmNanaimo Food Share Centre 250.753.7470

Quarterway StrongStart (birth - 5 years)12:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Quarterway Elementary School 250.740.3516Infant to School Age Immunization Clinic

Drop-In (Vancouver Island Health Authority)1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Nanaimo Health Centre 250.755.3342Connections: Young Parents Support Group


Princess Royal Family Centre 250.739.5845Infant to School Age Immunization Clinic

by Appointment *

(Vancouver Island Health Authority)3:30m – 7:00 pm

Nanaimo Health Centre 250.755.3342


by Appointment *

(Vancouver Island Health Authority)9:00 am - 3:30 pm (every other Saturday)


Family Storytime Drop-In

10:00 am - 12:00 pm(last Saturday of the month)

Harbourfront Library250.753.1154

FR

EE

Fairview StrongStart (birth - 5 years)8:45am - 11:45 am

Fairview Community School250.740.3516


McGirr Elementary School250.740.3516

Rutherford StrongStart (birth - 5 years)8:45 am - 11:45 am

Rutherford Elementary School250.740.3516

Georgia Ave. StrongStart (birth - 5 years)9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Georgia Avenue Community School250.740.3516

Bayview StrongStart (birth - 5 years)9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Bayview Elementary School250.740.3516

Building Better Babies

(home visits and drop-in)9:00 am - 5:00 pm




Nanaimo Health Unit250.755.3388


Drop-In



Family Place (parent and tot drop-in)9:30 am - 11:30 am


Woodbank StrongStart (birth - 5 years)9:30 am - 12:30 pm

Woodbank Primary School250.740.3516

Gabriola Island Monthly Infant to

School Age Immunization Clinics by

Appointment*

(Vancouver Island Health Authority)10:00 am – 11:30 am

(last Friday of the month)Gabriola Island HOPE Centre

250.755.3342Walking With The Elders * (birth – 6 years)

10:30 am – 1:00pmTillicum Lelum Health Centre

250.753.6578Parent-Child Mother Goose *

(12 – 18 months)11:45 am – 12:45 pm


Quarterway StrongStart (birth - 5 years)12:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Quarterway Elementary School250.740.3516

Kindergarten to Grade 12 Immunization

Clinic by Appointment *

(Vancouver Island Health Authority)1:00 pm – 3:30 pm



Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Early Years ResourcesPregnancy (Pre to Post)g y ( )

Birthright Information Help Line 1-800-550-4900 www.birthright.orgCross Roads Crisis Pregnancy Centre of Nanaimo (faith based) 250-716-1633 www.pregnancynanaimo.com (24 hour Helpline / Appointment line) 250-714-2191 or 1-866-714-2191 Gabriola Island Hope Centre 250-247-8730 www.gabriolahopecentre.comHealthlink BC (24 hour Nurse Line) 811 www.healthlinkbc.caLadysmith Community Health Centre 250-739-5777 www.viha.caLadysmith Resources Centre Association 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caAdventures in Early Literacy 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caBorn Healthy Prenatal Nutrition Program 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caDads Group 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caParent-Child Mother Goose 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caMaternal Health Program –Inter Tribal Health Services 250-753-3990 or 1.877.777.4842 www.intertribalhealth.caMidwives www.bcmidwives.comNanoose First Nation Head Start Program 250-390-0003 www.bcfnhs.orgOptions for Sexual Health 250-753-9511 www.optionsforsexualhealth.orgPublic Health Nursing www.viha.caNanaimo Health Centre 250-755-3342 www.viha.caNanaimo/Ladysmith Nursing Intake Line 250-755-3388 www.viha.caPrincess Royal Family Centre 250-739-5845 www.viha.caSnuneymuxw First Nation Health Centre 250-740-2337 www.snuneymuxw.caStz’uminus First Nation Health Centre 250-245-8551 www.cfnation.comTillicum Lelum Health Centre 250-753-6578 www.tillicumhaus.ca

Breast FeedinggGabriola Island Hope Centre 250-247-8730 www.gabriolahopecentre.comHealthlink BC (24hr Nurse Line) 811 www.healthlinkbc.caLadysmith Community Health Centre - Switchboard 250-739-5777 www.viha.caLa Leche League Breastfeeding Support 250-754-5853 www.lllc.caPublic Health Nursing www.viha.caNanaimo Health Centre 250-755-3342 www.viha.caNanaimo/Ladysmith Nursing Intake Line 250-755-3388 www.viha.caPrincess Royal Family Centre 250-739-5845 www.viha.caSnuneymuxw First Nation Health Centre 250-740-2337 www.snuneymuxw.caStz’uminus First Nation Health Centre 250-245-8551 www.cfnation.comTillicum Lelum Health Centre 250-753-6578 www.tillicumhaus.ca

Food and Nutrition

Healthlink BC - Dietitian Services 811 www.healthlinkbc.caLadysmith Community Gardens Society 250-245-5772 www.ladysmithcommunitygardensociety.weebly.com Ladysmith Resources Centre Association 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caCommunity Food Bank 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caGood Food Box 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caBorn Healthy Prenatal Nutrition Program 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caLaFF Ladysmith Family and Friends Food Programs 250-210-0870 www.familyandfriends.caLoaves and Fishes Community Food Bank 250-754-8347 www.loavesandfi shes.orgMeals on Wheels 250-753-1300 www.mealcall.orgNanaimo Community Gardens Society 250-816-4769 www.nanaimocommunitygardens.caNanaimo Community Kitchens Society 250-753-7470 www.nanaimocommunitykitchens.orgNanaimo Food Share Society 250-753-9393 www.nanaimofoodshare.caSalvation Army Meal Program / Community Services 250-754-2621 www.salvationarmy.caTillicum Lelum Health Centre 250-753-6578 www.tillicumhaus.caVIHA Community Nutrition Program – Nanaimo Health Centre 250-739-5845 www.viha.ca 7-10 Club Society – The Family Soup Kitchen 250-714-0917 www.nanaimo710club.com

Health

BC Poison Control 1-800-567-8911 www.dpic.orgChild and Youth Mental Health 250-741-5444 www.gov.bc.ca/mcfAboriginal 250-741-3600 www.gov.bc.ca/mcfGeneral 250-741-5444 www.gov.bc.ca/mcfHealthlink BC (24hr Nurse Line) 811 www.healthlinkbc.caNanoose First Nation Head Start Program 250-390-0003 www.bcfnhs.orgSnuneymuxw First Nation Health Centre 250-740-2337 www.snuneymuxw.caStz’uminus First Nation Health Centre 250-245-8551 www.cfnation.comTillicum Lelum Health Centre 250-753-6578 www.tillicumhaus.caVancouver Island Health Authority www.viha.ca Ladysmith Community Health Centre 250-739-5777 www.viha.ca Nanaimo Health Centre 250-755-3342 www.viha.caNanaimo/Ladysmith Nursing Intake Line 250-755-3388 www.viha.ca Nanaimo Regional General Hospital 250-754-2141 www.viha.caPrincess Royal Family Centre 250-739-5845 www.viha.ca Public Health Nursing Appointments 250-755-3342 www.viha.ca

Early Learning and Developmenty g p

Adventures in Early Literacy – Ladysmith Resources Centre Association 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caBoys and Girls Clubs of Central Vancouver Island- Family Resource Programs 250-754-3215 www.bgccvi.comEarly Years Program, School District #68 / StrongStart Centre’s 250-740-3516 www.sd68.bc.ca - Bayview Strong Start 250-740-3516 www.sd68.bc.ca - Fairview Strong Start 250-740-3516 www.sd68.bc.ca - Georgia Avenue Strong Start 250-740-3516 www.sd68.bc.ca - Ladysmith Primary Strong Start 250-740-3516 www.sd68.bc.ca - McGirr Strong Start 250-740-3516 www.sd68.bc.ca - Quarterway Strong Start 250-740-3516 www.sd68.bc.ca - Rutherford Strong Start 250-740-3516 www.sd68.bc.ca - Woodbank Strong Start 250-740-3516 www.sd68.bc.caIsland Family Information 250-756-2022 www.islandfamilyinfo.caLadysmith Resources Centre Association 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caAdventures in Early Literacy 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caDads Group 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caLaFF Ladysmith Family Resource Program 250-210-0870 www.familyandfriends.caLiteracy Central Vancouver Island 250-754-8988 www.literacycentralvi.orgMy Reading Tree www.myreadingtree.comNanaimo Child Development Centre 250-753-0251 www.nanaimocdc.comParent -Child Mother Goose Program www.nald.ca/mothergooseprogram - Gabriola 250-247-8730 www.gabriolahopecentre.comLadysmith Resources Centre Association 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.ca - Nanaimo 250-816-1699 www.sd68.bc.ca / www.myreadingtree.com

Snuneymuxw First Nation Administration 250-740-2300 www.snuneymuxw.caSpeech and Language Pathology/Nanaimo Health Centre 250-739-6827 www.viha.ca Stz’uminus First Nation 250-245-7155 www.cfnation.comTillicum Lelum Health Centre 250-753-6578 www.tillicumhaus.caVancouver Island Regional Libraries: www.virl.bc.ca

- Gabriola Island Library 250-247-7878 www.virl.bc.ca - Ladysmith Library 250-245-2322 www.virl.bc.ca - Nanaimo Harbourfront Library 250-753-1154 www.virl.bc.ca - Nanaimo Wellington Library 250-758-5544 www.virl.bc.ca

Child Care

Child Care Subsidy Program 1-888-338-6622 www.mcf.gov.bc.caCommunity Care Facility Licensing Program 250-739-5800 www.viha.ca/mho/licensingMinistry of Children and Family Development 250-741-5444 www.gov.bc.ca/mcfMinistry of Education 1-800-663-7867 www.bced.gov.bc.ca/ged/gedwhere.htmPacifi cCARE Child Care Resource and Referral 250-756-2022 www.pacifi c-care.bc.caSupported Child Development - Nanaimo (Child Development Centre) 250-753-0251 www.nanaimocdc.com - Ladysmith 250-245-3466 www.scdp.bc.ca

Family Servicesy

Adoptive Families Association of BC 1-800-ADOPT-07 www.bcadopt.comAutism Society of BC 250-714-0801 www.autismbc.caBC Centre for Safe School & Communities 1-888-224-7233 www.ufv.caBig Brothers and Big Sisters 250-756-2447 www.bigscvi.caBoys and Girls Clubs of Central Vancouver Island- Family Resource Programs 250-754-3215 www.bgccvi.com - Family Place www.bgccvi.com - Chase River 250-753-2464 www.bgccvi.com - Lantzville 250-390-4001 www.bgccvi.comParent-Child Mother Goose Program www.bgccvi.com - Chase River 250-753-2464 www.bgccvi.com - Lantzville 250-390-4001 www.bgccvi.comCrisis Society for Central Vancouver Island 1-888-494-3888 www.cvics.caFamily & Youth Support Services – Ladysmith Resources Centre Association 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caFoster Parent Support Services Society 250-390-9686 www.fpsss.comGabriola Island Hope Centre 250-247-8730 www.gabriolahopecentre.comHaven Society and Transition House 250-756-2452 www.havensociety.comHelp Line for Children 250-310-1234 www.mcf.gov.bc.caImmigrant Welcome Centre 250-753-6911 www.cvims.orgKids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 www.kidshelpphone.caKw’umut Lelum Child & Family Services 250-591-0933 www.kwumut.orgLadysmith Resources Centre Association 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caAdventures in Early Literacy 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caBorn Healthy Prenatal Nutrition Program 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caDads Group 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caFamily & Youth Support Services 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caParent-Child Mother Goose Program 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caVolunteer Counselling Program 250-245-3079 www.lrca.bc.caLaFF Ladysmith Family Resource Program 250-210-0870 www.familyandfriends.caLittle Ferns 250-753-1783 www.littleferns.caParent-Child Mother Goose Program 250-753-1783 www.littleferns.caYoung Parent Program 250-753-1783 www.littleferns.caMinistry of Children and Family Development 250-741-5444 www.gov.bc.ca/mcfNanaimo Child Development Centre 250-753-0251 www.nanaimocdc.comNanaimo Community Hospice Society 250-758-8857 www.nanaimohospice.comNanaimo Family Justice Access Centre 250-741-5447 www.ag.gov.bc.ca/justice-access-centre/nanaimoNanaimo Family Life Association 250-754-3331 www.nfl abc.orgGrandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Circle 1.877.345.9777 www.parentsupportbc.ca/grandparents.htmlNanaimo Family Resource Programs 250-753-2177 http://clbc.cioc.ca/record/CLB8004Nanaimo Men’s Resource Centre 250-716-1551 www.nanaimomen.comNanaimo Women’s Centre 250-753-0633 www.nanaimowomen.comNanaimo Youth Services 250-754-1989 www.nysa.bc.caNARSF Programs Ltd. (Nanaimo and Area Resource Services for Families) 250-754-2773 www.narsf.orgPacifi cCARE Child Care Resource and Referral 250-756-2022 www.pacifi c-care.bc.caParent Support Services of BC 1-877-345-9777 www.parentsuportbc.caPeople for a Healthy Community (Gabriola) 250-247-7311 www.phc-gabriola.orgRainbows Children’s Grief and Loss Support Group 250-751-7888 www.rainbowsnanaimo.blogspot.com - Nanaimo 250-751-7888 www.rainbowsnanaimo.blogspot.com - Ladysmith 250-245-8921 www.rainbowsnanaimo.blogspot.comSnuneymuxw First Nation Health Centre 250-740-2337 www.snuneymuxw.caSOAR Mentoring Program for women – Intertribal Health Authority 250-753-3990 www.intertribalhealth.caStz’uminus First Nation Health Centre 250-245-8551 www.cfnation.comTillicum Lelum Health Centre 250-753-6578 www.tillicumhaus.caTriple P Positive Parenting Program www.triplepvip.caVancouver Island Crisis Line 1-888-494-3888 www.vicrisis.caVancouver Island Heath Authority www.viha.ca - Brooks Landing – Crisis Counselling Clinic 250-739-5710 www.viha.caWelcome Wagon 250-756-9794 www.welcomewagon.ca

Recreation

Beban Park Recreation Centre 250-756-5200 www.nanaimo.caBowen Park Complex 250-756-5200 www.nanaimo.caLadysmith Parks, Recreation & Culture 250-245-6424 www.ladysmith.caNanaimo Aquatic Centre 250-756-5200 www.nanaimo.caNanaimo Ice Centre 250-756-5200 www.nanaimo.caOliver Woods Community Centre 250-756-5200 www.nanaimo.caCommunity Early Years Initiatives/Partnerships - Children First Initiative 250-816-1699 www.bcchildrenfi rst.ca - Greater Nanaimo Early Years Partnership 250-740-3516 www.sd68.bc.ca - Ladysmith Early Years Partnership 250-245-6427 www.sd68.bc.ca - Success By Six® Initiative 250-616-5820 www.successby6bc.ca - Vancouver Island Early Years Network 250-740-3516

Services Available for “Fee for Service”(Some services may be covered by the Ministry of Children & Family Development funding)

Dianne Martin & Associates – Stepfamily Support 250-591-8184 www.DianneMartinAndAssociates.comGo Between Consulting 250- 714-8754 www.gobetweenconsulting.comNanaimo Family Life Association 250-754-3331 www.nfl abc.org

Additional Resources for Families(Many organizations and agencies publish newsletters and a calendar of events. Please visit the websites for more information.)

BC Association of Family Resource Programs 604-738-0068 www.frpbc.caCrisis Society Resource Book 250-753-2495 www.cvics.caSurviving in Nanaimo 250-754-4251The Community Dental Clinic (CODE) 250-591-0771 www.codeclinic.org


�

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BY EILEEN BENNEWITHThe way a baby eats from birth

onward, may impact how they growand whether they are gaining weight ina way that is right for them.

If parents know a few simple tipsabout infant feeding, they can offer food to babies so they grow to theirgenetic potential.

Breastfeeding promotes healthy weight. Health Canada recommendsexclusive breastfeeding for the first sixmonths and continued breastfeeding along with solid foods until baby is twoyears or more.

Feeding cues are behaviors that will tell you that a baby wants to eat. If thebaby puts their hands to their mouthand moves the head to look for the nip-ple, this is an early sign of hunger.

Mouth opening, lip licking or suck-ing, clenching fingers over tummyand bending arms and legs are furthersigns of hunger. Fussing and cry-ing are late cues. It is important to respond to your baby as soon as you see the first signs of hunger.

Responding appropriately to theircues helps your child learn to trust you. The other part of this relation-ship is that you must learn to trust your child.

Only your child knows whether theyare hungry or not. This trust is thefoundation for a healthy relationship with food.

From the first feeding, right through life, your child’s job is to decide whether to eat and how much to eat of the food that is offered. This rule

applies whether it is breastmilk, for-mula or solid foods. When you trustyour child to follow internal hungerand fullness cues, they will grow in away that is right for them.

Your baby will tell you when they have had enough. Do not force a baby to eat or finish food or bottles.

This can lead to overeating and los-

ing the ability to recognize fullness. A baby that eats to appetite will grow in away that is right for them.

Babies are not developmentally ready to eat solid foods until they are around six month old.

Offering solid foods too early can leadto obesity, allergies, choking or consti-pation in babies. Six month old babies are ready to eat mashed table foods and do not need pureed foods.

Eating meals as a family will teachchildren to eat family foods. They will get a variety of textures and flavoursby eating the same food as the rest ofthe family.

Serve meals and snacks at regulartimes. Toddlers that are allowed tograze on food, juice or milk all day may be too full to eat at mealtimes.

Leave time between meals and snacks so they will get hungry enough to eatagain.

From six months onward, encouragetoddlers to feed themselves. Spoon fedtoddlers may ignore hunger cues andeat to please the parent. This can lead to overeating or picky eating.

If food is withheld for punishmentor given as a reward, children learnto eat for reasons other than hunger. Pushing children to eat more than they want can lead to a poor relationshipwith food. Restricting food can lead to overeating.

For more information about building a healthy relationship with food, con-tact a public health nurse or commu-nity nutritionists at your local health unit.

Help children growin a way that is right for them

“SUCCESS BY SIX – AN ESSENTIAL COMMITMENT TO THE FUTURE OF OUR PROVINCE”

DOUG ROUTLEY, MLANANAIMO~NORTH COWICHAN

Community Offices

524 1st Avenue | Box 269Ladysmith, BC V9G 1A2

Phone 250.245.9375 | Fax 250.245.8164

Unit 112 50 Tenth StreetNanaimo, BC V9R 6L1

Phone 250.716.5221 | Fax 250.716.5222

Email: [email protected]: www.dougroutley.ca

Support Our Children - Support

Leonard Krog M.L.A.(Nanaimo)Offi cial Oppositionfi4-77 Victoria Cres. Nanaimo, BC V9R 5B9Phone: 250-714-0630Fax: [email protected]

Helping all children succeed for life.

Helping All Children Succeed for Life.


BY HEATHER BUCHANENThere’s a lot of discussion about how

to prevent cavities in children’s teeth. Basic care includes a parent or care-

giver brushing children’s teeth twice aday with fluoride toothpaste and floss-ing daily once their teeth touch.

However, it can be confusing to choose between the many oral careproducts on the market today.

Following are some simple guidelinesaround appropriate dental care prod-ucts to use for kids.

ToothbrushesGently brushing teeth helps remove

plaque and food that is stuck to theteeth.

Use a toothbrush with a small head tofit a child’s mouth.

Ultra soft or soft bristles are gentle on the gums but still able to remove plaque and food.

Power toothbrushes may motivatesome children to brush but they aren’tnecessary. Recently, some power tooth-brushes have been recalled by Health Canada because they came apart in the mouth or shorted out. Before your child uses a power toothbrush, check that the head is securely attached andthere are no loose pieces.

Fluoride toothpasteFluoride helps protect teeth from

cavities and is a recommended ingredi-ent in toothpaste. Fluoride isn’t added to our water supply so using toothpaste containing fluoride to strengthen andprotect teeth is recommended for all ages. If you use well water, it can betested for fluoride.

Parents need to be aware that many “baby” toothpastes do not offer the protection of fluoride and often costmore than regular toothpaste. As soon as teeth appear, the Canadian and BC Dental Associations, as well as theWorld Health Organization, advise that it is safe for children to use fluoridetoothpaste as long as it’s the correct amount.

Fluoride toothpaste for children con-tains the same concentration of fluo-ride as adult toothpaste. According to the Canadian Dental Association, the safe, appropriate amount of fluoridetoothpaste is:

For children under 3 years: an amount the size of a grain of rice.

For children over 3 years or those

who do not swallow toothpaste: an amount the size of a green pea

The Canadian Dental Association’sseal of approval should be on the tube of toothpaste used.

Children often prefer toothpaste that is mild or sweet. Toothpaste does notcontain decay-causing sugar but does have other sweeteners to make it more palatable and prevent it from drying out and hardening. The most com-mon sweeteners are xylitol, sorbitol or glycerin. Xylitol is a natural sweetenerthat helps prevent tooth decay.

Toothpastes may also have added whitening, desensitizing, tartar-con-trol, breath freshening or anti-bacterialingredients. When you see the Cana-dian Dental Association (CDA) sealof approval on a tube of toothpastecheck to see what it is approving. Itmay be approving the fluoride in the toothpaste – not the added ingredients. Some of these additional ingredients have not been tested for safety or effec-tiveness on children and are not recom-mended for youngsters.

For safety, store all toothpaste outof reach of children and monitor how much toothpaste is being used.

FlossWhen children’s teeth start touching

side-by-side, toothbrush bristles can’treach in between them anymore. Floss is needed to clear food and plaque frombetween teeth once per day. Before bed is the best time.

String-type floss or floss sticks canbe used. Try a see-saw motion with the floss to ease it between the teeth andavoid damaging the gums. Parents

often find it easiest to floss their child’steeth when the child’s head is sup-ported and they are lying down.

Waxed floss usually slides betweenthe teeth more easily than un-waxedfloss.

Mouth rinseMouthwash is used by adults for dif-

ferent reasons but children don’t need mouthwash for good oral health. Basic brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing will protect their teeth.

When children can spit, you maychoose to purchase mouthwash foryour children. Only alcohol-free mouth rinse should be considered.

Mouth rinses that show where plaque is on the teeth can be used by children who are able to spit the rinse out com-pletely. These may help motivate older children to brush but are not necessary.

Other basic tips for keeping chil-dren’s teeth cavity free:

◆ Children need parent’s help tobrush their teeth properly until they are 8 years old.

◆ Make brushing fun to encouragegood oral care.

◆ Offer tooth healthy snacks likefresh fruit and vegetables, cheese, nutsand foods that are not sweet or sticky.

◆ Give water for thirst betweenmeals. Juice, even diluted juice, can cause cavities.

◆ Regular visits to the dentist should start around 1 year of age.

If you have any questions or need help finding a dentist, please call your local Health Unit, Dental Programs at 250-739-5845, ext. 57562

Choosing dental products for kids


BY MATT SANDERSMany parents today are confused

about how to discipline their chil-dren.

Good discipline is simply abouthelping children learn that theirbehaviour leads to consistent con-sequences that are always enforcedwithin a predictable, loving environ-ment.

As a clinical psychologist specialis-ing in family concerns, and as a par-ent to my own two children, the bestadvice I can give is to always try andremain calm in the line of fire.

Don’t let a single disobedient actescalate into a full scale battle of wills between child and parent.

Discipline for children must involveclear, fair, age-appropriate rules andconsequences carried out in a predict-able family environment.

It’s no good changing tactics one daybecause you don’t feel up to the chal-lenge.

When your child breaks a rule they

know about, have an effective conse-quence.

Removing a favourite toy, banning the use of a bike, or turning off the television are all viable consequences of misbehaviour.

Being “pro social” with your chil-dren involves changing the ratio ofnegative and positive attention to shift the balance toward more posi-tives.

For example, if your children arefighting over a toy, you might tellthem to stop fighting, teach themabout the importance of sharing andthen show them how to go about shar-ing.

If your child is being loud and inter-rupting, explain the importance ofpoliteness and teach them how to gain mum or dad’s attention in a moreacceptable fashion.

The way you discipline your chil-dren will vary with the age and per-sonality of that child.

For instance you can’t negotiate bed-

time with a three year old, althoughyou can with your teenager.

And discipline for disobedience should always teach two things.

Firstly, that “no” means to stop the behaviour that is not allowed andsecondly, it should make clear theappropriate behaviour that should beseen instead.

The trap that many parents fall into when dealing with misbehaviour isto unwittingly feed negative behav-iour by nagging and criticising, often inconsistently, and by failing to praise and encourage children when theybehave well.

It isn’t magic that brings aboutthese results, just effort, and an understanding that we all need a little help sometimes.

◆Professor Matt Sanders is founder

of the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program. For more information about Triple P in your community, please go tohttp://triplepvip.ca.

Vancouver Island

Discipline is not a dirty word

Triple P provides simple solutions to make parenting easier. Triple P aims to build positive behaviours in children by enhancing the knowledge, skills andconfidence of parents.

The program offers strategies andideas to help parents build positiverelationships with their children and respond to misbehaviours, immedi-ately, consistently and decisively. The program aims to teach parents theimportance of self-care.

Triple P offers parents several pro-gram options to choose from:

SeminarsA series of three presentations pro-

vides an introduction and overviewon the basics of Positive Parenting. Each presentation is 1.5-hours long and includes some time for discussion. Parents learn how to use positive par-enting to encourage their children tolearn the skills and competencies they need for health, development and wellbeing.

Tip SheetsProvide information and assistance

for common, specific parenting con-cerns such as tantrums, tidying up,adjusting to a new baby, resistance tohomework or chores, teen challenges and others.

All tip sheets help parents to under-stand why the behaviour occurs, howto prevent it and if we cannot prevent it, suggestions on how to manage it.

Groups (for parents of 2-12 years orparents of 11-14 years)

Provide parents the opportunity to learn and practice all 17 Triple P strat-egies over eight weeks. Parents learn to identify why their children misbe-have, how to promote the behaviours they would like to see, and how to man-age those they have been challenged by.

For more information, please visitwww.triplepvip.ca.

What is Triple P – Positive Parenting Program?


250.245.6424 | www.ladysmith.ca

Your source for active living in the early years!

Little Ferns is an early learning centre offering a variety of programs.

At its core, is childcare for childrenages birth to 5 years, offered Mondayto Fridays, year round.

Within the childcare program is the Young Parent program, one of 38 in B.C.

Young parent programs offer a combination of childcare with other support and resources for young/teen parents up to age 24 who had a child(ren) without completing their grade 12 requirements and not gradu-ating.

Little Ferns childcare staff offer exceptional care for the babies, tod-dlers and preschoolers while the par-ent, young moms and dads return to secondary school, or adult basic edu-cation and get their grade 12 diploma.

Depending on income at the time,there is a full subsidy for childcarefees for this program.

As well, at Little Ferns we offer Par-ent Child Mother Goose for childrenages birth to 2.5 years, the Grandmas and Grandpas club for senior class-

room volunteers, Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Group, Junior LeadershipProgram for students in grades 9-12,Pivot- girls program, and Seeds ofEmpathy.

All this and daily snacks and ahot lunch program. Drop by – we are located on the grounds of John Barsby Secondary School, or callexecutive director Amy Collum at 250-753-1783.

Enjoy a tour around our centre orour friendly website at www.littleferns.ca

Children First is a province wideinitiative established and funded by the Ministry of Children and Family Development. It is designed to support communities in identifying and promotingthe healthy growth and development of young children, birth to six years old.

The initiative is not a program thatdelivers a service directly to children; rather it is a powerful and accessible catalyst to change, at the community level.

There are 45 initiatives throughout B.C.that have been in practice for approximately 10 years through publicly funded,research based, early years community collaboratives. In the Nanaimo/Ladysmithregion, the Children First Coordinator position is used to increase capacity atthe Greater Nanaimo and Ladysmith Early Years Partnerships and their workingteams, who are funded by Success By 6.The partnership’s vision is that childrenthrive within healthy families and supportive communities, and their mission is to createa community that supports the optimaldevelopment of young children and their families. For more information, please contact Amber Bruner, Children First Early Years Community Coordinator at [email protected] or 250-816-1699.

Little Ferns offers variety


BY KAREN FEDIUKThe mission of the Ladysmith

Resources Centre Association, at 630Second Ave., is to co-ordinate andprovide services and information toenhance the quality of life in Ladys-mith and surrounding community.

As part of that mission to supportfamilies, the LRCA offers the following programs for families with childrenaged 0-6.

Offered weeklyLadysmith Dads’ Group. Led by 2

dads, this Saturday morning (10 a.m. to noon) drop-in breakfast and discussiongroup for dads and their kids offersdads a chance to practice new ways ofrelating to their children, to meet other new dads, and to share information about fathering and parenting in a verylow-pressure format.

Born Healthy. Led by a nutritionist, this free program is available to preg-nant women and parents of new babiesand offers nutrition, breastfeeding,nursing and environmental support. Group drop-ins run Wednesday (10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.). Individual appoint-ments are also available.

Family and Youth Support Services Program. This intervention program is designed to assist families with chil-dren aged 6-12 who are experiencing difficulties at home, school, with peers,or in the community and are at risk of violence, family breakdown, or having a child removed. Potential clients can be referred to the program by MCFD,CYMH, SD68 staff, LRCA and other community agencies as well as familiesthemselves.

Offered in the fall, winter and spring,the following programs require pre-registration:

Mother Goose, Infant and Toddler. Led by 2 facilitators, parents and young children learn rhymes and songs thatcan help make parenting an easier task. Join in this group to learn someways to comfort a tired baby, distract-ing a fussy or mischievous one, getting through necessary chores such as dia-per changing and face washing.

Adventures in Early Literacy. Designed to assist the development ofself-esteem, social and literacy skills of preschoolers (3 to 5 years old), classesare held Tuesday mornings. Parents

can gain language and literacy experi-ences through songs, stories, reading, games, crafts and circle time that can be used at home.

Offered in the fall and springTriple P (Positive Parenting Pro-

gram) for Caregivers of Children 2-12 years. Designed to improve behaviourand encourage positive relationships between parents and children, Triple

P suggests simple routines and smallchanges that can make a big difference to your family.

Parents learn about effective parent-ing strategies that help promote both child and teen development and pro-mote positive behaviours.

For more information about any of these programs or to speak to a pro-gram coordinator, please call 250-245-3079.

Resource centre aims to support families

Parent-Child Mother GooseParent-Child Mother Goose is a free

program that has been running since the mid ’80s. The main goal of this one-on-one program is to build and support the connection between a parent and child. Through the use of songs, rhymes, andstories, the program gives parents tools to help with the joyful and challenging times of parenting.

The program is delivered orally without the use of books, toys or objects in a relaxed environment. The benefits of Parent-Child Mother Goose are apparentafter only a few classes.

Benefits of song:

Calms a child and parent in a stressfulsituation;

Helps create smooth transitions throughout the day;

Inspires creativity;Fosters attachment, language and brain

development;Creates cooperation and social skills;Supports early literacy and cognitive

skills;Gives confidence.

For more information, please contact Amber Bruner, Children First Early Years Community Coordinator at [email protected] or 250-816-1699.


BY JACQUIE NELLIGANLadysmith Family and

Friends, fondly known asLaFF, is a family resourceprogram and non-profitsociety serving familieswith children ages 0-6.

We offer 21 hours of pro-gramming with daytime and evening activities held at multiple locationsthroughout Ladysmith.

Mornings with LaFF, SEWcial Night, LaFFter-noons, and special eventsare held at Aggie Hall (1110 First Ave).

The space is transformed into a “community living room” allowing families to connect with serviceproviders, gain tips on par-enting issues from our pro-fessional staff, participate

in cooking and gardening opportunities, strengthenties to the community,share skills and interests, and connect with other families.

Family Frolics is held at Frank Jamieson Commu-nity Center (810 – 6th Ave). The program allows oppor-tunity for families to burnoff energy before bedtime.

LaFF Outside and Com-munity Garden events areoffered seasonally withinthe community. These allow families meaningful outdoor experiences andenhance the mental and physical health creating a healthier and happier com-munity.

LaFF is communitydriven and our Volunteer

Program provides oppor-tunities for growth and asense of belonging to indi-viduals in the community.

There are opportunitiesfor youth, adult and seniorsto become a part of theeveryday activities at LaFF.

LaFF ensures an inclu-sive environment and wel-comes all families in the surrounding area to join usin creating a happy, healthyand nurturing place togrow.

A $2 donation per familyis suggested.

The coffee is always

fresh and regularly thereare extra bowls of soup or slices of French toast to enjoy.

Come and see why we were awarded the 2012 Dis-tinguished Service Award for commitment to Quality from the B.C. Association of Family Resource Pro-grams.

Please visit us at www.familyandfriends.ca or at Facebook.com/Ladys-mithFamilyandFriends or watch us in action at www.vimeo.com/43137493 andwww.vimeo.com/54163295.

The Town of Ladysmith is committed to enhancing thehealth & quality of life of the Ladysmith area community through accessible programs, services, facilities and open spaces. TheLadysmith Department of Parks, Recreation & Culture works in collaboration with other community organizations to facilitate an age-friendly community, and Ladysmith facilities such as the Aggie Hall, the Frank Jameson Community Centre pool andfitness centre are bursting with recreational activities and fun-filled events. For more information about Ladysmith active living opportunities for all ages, go to www.ladysmith.ca or call250-245-6424.

Family activities offeredat Ladysmith program

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BY PAM MCADAMThe Nanaimo Child Development

Centre brochure states it is the place to go when your family needs a helping hand.

Started by a small group of parents in 1967, the centre has a long historywith our community, providing serviceto families from Lantzville to Ladys-mith, Gabriola to Cedar.

Our mission is to promote child development by serving children with developmental needs and their fami-lies.

Do you have a question regarding your baby’s development? A concern about your daughter’s speech? Do youworry your son will not be ready forkindergarten? Are you having diffi-culty with your child’s behaviour?

For children age five and under, we have someone who can help.

The Child Development Centre:◆ Provides specialized services for

children from birth to 19 years of age.◆ Believes every child has the right

to become the best they can be.◆ Honours families as the most

important part of a child’s life.◆ Supports inclusive community

programs.◆ Meets international accreditation

standards for service excellence

You can refer your child by dropping in or calling the Child DevelopmentCentre.

We encourage parent referrals but

with your permission, any professional involved with your child may make a referral.

There is no cost for the services. Funding comes from a number of gov-ernment sources, along with generous community support through fundrais-ing and donations.

Services may be provided in your home, in a childcare setting, in thecommunity, or at the Child Develop-ment Centre, based on parent choice.

Emphasizing the importance ofearly identification of developmental needs, the Early Intervention Program includes:

◆ Speech Language Therapy, Physio-therapy, and Occupational Therapy

◆Infant Development;◆Family Development;◆Supported Child Development;◆Inclusive Preschool (fees apply).

We also have some programs forschool aged children, based on specificneed and with a referral.

Our vision is a community wherechildren and youth with developmentalneeds and their families are able toachieve their potential without experi-encing barriers.

Children are happy, successful, andcontribute to their community and are accepted by their peers.

For more information, please check us out at www.nanaimocdc.com.

The Vancouver Island Health Authority in the greater Nanaimo areaprovides speech-language services tochildren and their families from birthto kindergarten entry.

Two full time speech-languagepathologists at the Nanaimo Health Centre provide a variety of services tothe community.

Parents with concerns can self-refer their young child for a speech and/or language assessment by calling the speech department directly at 250-739-6827.

Families can also informally connectwith a speech-language pathologist onspecifically scheduled days at any of

the school district Strongstart Centres or LAFF. Questions and consultationsare always welcome.

Health centre speech-languagepathologists work with people andagencies in the larger community tocreate language-rich environments fortoddlers and preschoolers.

They provide educational opportuni-ties and information for people whowork with families and young chil-dren.

For example, childcare providers canrequest a consultation to work with aspeech-language pathologist to createricher communication opportunities for all the young children within their

facility. Communication skills begin at birth with the fastest stage of lan-guage development occurring within the first three years of life.

Language continues to develop well beyond kindergarten entry, but the first three years lay a critical founda-tion for social and academic success.

All young children need support to build strong communication skills and the health centre speech-language pathologists are actively engaging with the community to make that hap-pen.

To contact a health centre speechlanguage pathologist, please call 250-739-6827.

Health authority provides speech language services

Development centre offers helping hand


If you like choices, check out our hugehselection of natural and organic items.Your destination for grocery shopping.

Fuel learning with delicious, healthy food.

LEARNING is a treasure that will follow its

owner everywhere.

– Chinese Proverb Chinese Proverb

Port Place650 South Terminal Ave.

250.729.2937

Longwood Station5801 Turner Rd.250.729.4950

Brooks Landing2000 Island Highway

250.729.2933

www.thriftyfoods.com

8807 C01 Nanaimo Success by 6.indd 18800 2013-02-19 1:45 PM2 1:45 PM5 PM


StrongStart Early Learning Centres provide a free drop-in program for

newborn children to age 5 and their parent, grandparent or caregiver. The program is planned with the understanding that children learn through PLAY! Carefully selected materials and activities will promote the social, emotional, physical, cognitive and early literacy development in each child. Locations: Bayview Elementary 754-3231 Fairview Community 753-3418

Georgia Avenue Community 753-1044 Ladysmith Primary 245-3912

McGirr Elementary 758-8946 Quarterway Elementary 754-6845

Rutherford Elementary 758-5331 Woodbank Primary 722-3644

Thanks to the financial assistance of the Ministry of Education, Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools are supporting families to become involved in early learning opportunities. For more information visit www.sd68.bc.ca/EarlyYears or contact the Early Years Coordinator at 250 740-3516.

April 06, 2013

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