Operation Sock Monkey
Sat, Apr 9, 2:00 - 5:00
Learn how to make this classic cheeky toy. Keep your monkey (fee $35) or donate it to Operation Sock Monkey and pay only $5 for materials.
416-761-1555
Mar 30, 2011
Brand new workshops at Green Lavender Yoga Studio
Kid’s Yoga with Cindy Acab
Saturdays: March 5th-April 9th 2:30-3:30pm
Next Session: April 16th-May 21st
$110 6 Week Session or $20.00 drop-in
A yoga class designed just for kids! In this class children will explore yoga through breathing exercises, traditional asana poses, partner yoga, games, music, relaxation and creative arts projects.
Let your children explore yoga poses which helps to develop body awareness and improved posture, flexibility, strength and balance. Give them tools to help relax and concentrate.
Each week will explore a new theme and build an understanding of the practise of yoga.
All materials for creative arts projects provided. Suitable for children ages 4-10 years.
Pre-natal Yoga with Cindy Acab
Tuesdays: Feb 22nd-March 29th 6:30-7:45pm
Next Session: April 5th – May 10th
$110 6 Week session or $22.00 drop-in
For expectant mothers, the pre-natal classes are an opportunity to prepare your mind and body for the changes and challenges of pregnancy and labour. Connect with other expecting mothers as you are taken through safe and gentle yoga postures and breathing techniques that will not only keep you in shape while pregnant but will help you release tension and reduce anxiety.
Classes are designed to not only open, but strengthen your body, letting you meet the ever, changing challenges and transformations of your body during pregnancy. Appropriate modifications provided for each trimester.
Benefits of Pre-natal Yoga during your pregnancy:
Promotes and improves strength, flexibility and endurance – which will prove to be helpful during the physical demands of labour and childbirth
Helps to reduce joint inflammation and swelling. As an expectant mother, you may experience water retention and poor circulation. The pre-natal class will provide yoga poses which are effective at preventing or reducing the swelling which occurs in hands, ankles and feet.
Helps to alleviate back pain. Yoga helps to maintain proper posture by bringing awareness to proper body alignment and placement. You will leave the class feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and completely rested during this very important time in your life.
Mom and Baby/Post-Natal Yoga with Cindy Acab
Tuesdays: March 1 – April 5th 1:15 – 2:15 pm
Next Session: April 19th – May 29th
$110 6 Week Session or $22.00 drop-in
Post Natal Yoga is a fun, energetic class that helps you de-stress and enjoy some time with your new bundle of joy! The class focuses primarily on rebuilding deep abdominal muscles and the muscles of the pelvic floor. Tight shoulders and backs will be stretched out, and the legs will also be stretched and strengthened in the class. Come with your baby, or without. Newborns to pre-crawlers are welcome. No yoga experience necessary.
Mobile Baby and Parent Yoga (NEW!!!) with Cindy Acab
Tuesdays: 11:00am – 12:00 noon
Next Session: May 3rd – June 7th
$110 6 Week Session or $22.00 drop-in
Come practice yoga with other parents or caregivers and their little ones in this vinyasa class that will help improve strength, flexibility and agility. Share the experience of yoga with your child as they play and explore poses with their peers. Suitable for little yogi & yoginis from crawling to 4 years old.
416.792.2447
2842 Dundas St West
Toronto, M6P 1Y7
Mar 29, 2011
Mar 25, 2011
High Park Spring Egg Fun Day- Sunday, April 17th at 3 pm
Join this annual community event held on the grounds and inside Colborne Lodge. Children enjoy egg hunts, egg races outside, and dye eggs using natural dyes inside historic Colborne Lodge. $2 with some activity fees. Hosted by Colborne Lodge and High Park Initiatives.
Events Include:
Indoor Crafts
Egg-in-Spoon Races
Egg Dyeing Event ($1 per child)
&
Egg Hunt ($2 per child)
12:30 & 1:30pm (5 yrs & under)
1:00 & 2:00pm (6yrs & over)
2:30 (all age groups)
All events take place at Colborne Lodge, at the south end of the park.
All proceeds support nature education and park stewardship programs at the High Park Nature Centre
Earth Hour events in the Junction- Saturday, March 26th!
Lantern-making at the Annette Library on Saturday, March 26th from 9:30 am to 5 pm.
At 8 pm that evening at the Junction Train Platform the Junction Children's Choir will perform, that's where the walk starts!
The Junction Earth Hour candlelight walk begins at 8:30 pm til 9:30 pm, converging with 2 other Ward 13 walks at 9:30 pm at Memorial Hall in Runnymede United Church .There we will celebrate with local musicians, some refreshments, and some information on reducing energy use and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
More info here: http://www.green13toronto.org/
Mar 23, 2011
Farmer's Market Initiative meeting @ AXIS (Thursday, March 24th 7-9 pm)
Axis Gallery and Grill (downstairs)
3048 Dundas St W
The Ward 13 Farmers Market Initiative is holding its next meeting on Thursday, March 24 from 7-9pm at Axis Bar & Grill in the lower level. People interested in getting involved and helping us get a market started in Ward 13 are welcome to join!
This is a "no kids" event
Opticianado- brand new business in the Junction!
"Opticianado"- Vintage & Fine Eyewear (2919 Dundas St W), located in the same storefront where True Blue Vintage used to be. Grand Opening should be this Thursday!
Mar 21, 2011
FREE Carseat Clinic!
Wednesday, April 13th, 2011
7 – 10 am
Sears, Sherway Gardens, 25 The West Mall (East Side of the Mall)
The correct use of child safety seats can reduce the risk of injury by 75% and the risk of death by 90% (Transport Canada 1998). Four (4) out of five (5) car seats are not used properly in Canada (Safekids Canada, 1999).
The Child Safety Seat Coalition is comprised of representatives from various community agencies and groups who are committed to reducing road-related injuries and deaths in children.
The Coalition's goal is to develop and implement effective strategies to help prevent injuries and injury-related deaths in children as a result of motor vehicle collisions through the correct use of child safety seats.
Farewell, my beloved Phil & Teds 'Sport'
I just sold my beloved Phil &Teds 'Sport' stroller on craigslist, it was time to let it go after 3 years of making my life a breeze with two kids, I have ran and sped-walked with it up and down the High Park hills (both kids included), taught extreme strollerfit classes, moved through mud, thick grass, gravel, sand and snow, bumped it up and down subway stairs, took it on trips, lent it to friends, filled it to the brim with kids and groceries, navigated crazy narrow isles of mom and pop grocery stores, took it on inaccessible busses and even streetcars (easily detach & attach one back wheel to get into a street car), saying that this stroller has served me well would be a gross understatement.... after all that love from me, my kids, weather, rough terrain and groceries, it's still in great condition after 3 years, I did have to replace one tire and fill tires with air a few times, but that's just maintenance.
Phil &Teds 'Sport' was the very best stroller on the market at the time for a person like me, who never sits at home, who thinks that there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing and crappy equipment, there were other doubles on the market but they were all too wide (remember narrow store isles), too hard to maneuver with one hand with both kids in it, too gigantic all over, too uncomfortable for my kids to sleep in..etc..
I have very high standards when it comes to strollers, they're supposed to make your life with kids as easy as possible, if I can't EASILY get into a narrow inaccessible store with steps in front of it and those evil, double main entrance doors, it's not a stroller for me! I was able to do that and more with my Phil &Teds 'Sport', I was also able to walk fast and push one kid in the stroller filled with groceries (saddle bags are a life saver!) up a long steep hill with the other kid crying in my arms and still maneuver the stroller with just two fingers. Another amazing and very important thing about this stroller is how much my kids loved sleeping in it, their naps were legendary, sometimes 3-4 hours, if you think the back seat (easily detachable) looks uncomfortable, just ask my 3 year-old for a personal review of it :)
Thanks Phil &Teds 'Sport' for helping make my life with two kids enjoyable, seriously! No, I don't get paid for reviews :)
80s Babies Spring-Junction Session is now accepting registrations!
80's Babies Spring-Junction Session is now accepting registrations!
Dates: April 5 th - May 24th
Time: 10:30 am - 11:15 am
Location: Creative Children's Dance Center, 2968 Dundas West- downstairs
Cost: $125 + hst (cash or cheque please)
To register: send me your full name, your baby's name and your tel #, I will hold a spot for you both until day 1 of class when we'll complete registration
It's Spring! You've got a new Groove in your step! So...
SHAKE THAT BOOTY WITH YOUR BABY!!
416-857-1746
Mar 20, 2011
What I learned at daycare
GUEST POST by ELISA ALBY, owner of LA MAMMA FILES
Amelia has been in daycare now for six months.
If you had asked me years ago --before I was remotely close to having kids, but knew that I would eventually be a mamma-- I would have told you that I would be staying home with my kids for the first three years of each of their lives.
Well, life didn't quite cooperate on that front, so instead, daycare. For her part, Amelia is thriving. She is a very social creature, loves the attention of her peers and enjoys the endless exploration. Daycare provides stimuli, structure and social development. She learns from activities, from her caregivers and from her friends.
What I hadn't expected was just how much I would learn from daycare. If it wasn't for the daycare I never would have noticed some of her capabilities. I may not have introduced eating utensils so soon. It would have never occurred to me that a 13 month old would like to colour, and actually spend more than five minutes at it.
Granted her spoon and fork are often, too often, hurled across the kitchen. She has bitten off the tips of approximately 4 out of her 16 markers and I'm pretty sure she's going for the whole set. But see, I learned that this is normal toddler behavior, probably the most important lesson so far. And the incidents of biting and scratching? Par for the course.
I've also learned and observed ways to deal with some of these tough, but normal behaviours. I take some cues from the caregivers who have very gentle but firm ways of handling the kids, often turning a negative behaviour into something positive. When Amelia used to try to bite me, I would say, "are you trying to give me a kiss?" Thus giving her the benefit of the doubt, since maliciousness is not natural to a baby.
Their strict standards also help reinforce good habits like keeping hats and mittens on when it's cold outside. Staying seated while eating. Keeping her "feet on the floor, please" to deter from climbing onto chairs and tables, and holding hands when out on a walk. Though our recent struggle to get her buy-in on the hand-holding proves that either daycare workers have more clout or she has us pegged as pushovers.
In any case, I am grateful for so much about our daycare, not least all the things it has taught me about parenting.
As we approach potty training and weaning off the pacifier, please know daycare, I am fully counting on you!
Amelia has been in daycare now for six months.
If you had asked me years ago --before I was remotely close to having kids, but knew that I would eventually be a mamma-- I would have told you that I would be staying home with my kids for the first three years of each of their lives.
Well, life didn't quite cooperate on that front, so instead, daycare. For her part, Amelia is thriving. She is a very social creature, loves the attention of her peers and enjoys the endless exploration. Daycare provides stimuli, structure and social development. She learns from activities, from her caregivers and from her friends.
What I hadn't expected was just how much I would learn from daycare. If it wasn't for the daycare I never would have noticed some of her capabilities. I may not have introduced eating utensils so soon. It would have never occurred to me that a 13 month old would like to colour, and actually spend more than five minutes at it.
Granted her spoon and fork are often, too often, hurled across the kitchen. She has bitten off the tips of approximately 4 out of her 16 markers and I'm pretty sure she's going for the whole set. But see, I learned that this is normal toddler behavior, probably the most important lesson so far. And the incidents of biting and scratching? Par for the course.
I've also learned and observed ways to deal with some of these tough, but normal behaviours. I take some cues from the caregivers who have very gentle but firm ways of handling the kids, often turning a negative behaviour into something positive. When Amelia used to try to bite me, I would say, "are you trying to give me a kiss?" Thus giving her the benefit of the doubt, since maliciousness is not natural to a baby.
Their strict standards also help reinforce good habits like keeping hats and mittens on when it's cold outside. Staying seated while eating. Keeping her "feet on the floor, please" to deter from climbing onto chairs and tables, and holding hands when out on a walk. Though our recent struggle to get her buy-in on the hand-holding proves that either daycare workers have more clout or she has us pegged as pushovers.
In any case, I am grateful for so much about our daycare, not least all the things it has taught me about parenting.
As we approach potty training and weaning off the pacifier, please know daycare, I am fully counting on you!
Mar 19, 2011
Junction Residents Association Fundraiser
please click on the image to enlarge
Info taken from http://artjunction.blogspot.com/ please visit this link for more info!
Getting back to the "Multicultural Dolls" post from 2008.. Any progress?
click here--> Here's the original post
Few days ago I went back to Dufferin Mall "Toys R Us" store to look for a baby doll for one of my friend's daughters, I hate Dufferin Mall and mainstream toy stores because I prefer to buy something hand-made in the Junction, I'm a crazy local-only activist who loves everything Junction (sometimes I can't afford to be an activist and shop at places like Costco), but I had something specific in mind, a plastic baby doll that will survive the loving hands of a 2 year-old girl who's roots are from Jamaica.
Her mom has been complaining lately that she can't find a black baby doll with African features and brown eyes that doesn't cost an arm and a leg, you'd think this would be easy since Toronto is so multicultural and the mainstream stores would obviously cater to the changing population? No, all the baby doll isles are filled with blonde haired-blue/green-eyed dolls, when I asked one of the staff if they have dolls with darker skin colour, they showed me a "tanned" doll with red hair! Seriously??
Off to Walmart I went, yes, Walmart..please don't judge, I refuse to spend $50-$75 on a doll!
Same thing there, blonde dolls as far as the eye can see, then oh, a miracle, a doll with darker skin!!! I ran to it and picked it up, it had yellow-green eyes :)
Looks like I'm back to online shopping, maybe things will change in another 3 years...
P.S. Yes, I am aware of all the great online stores and Carolle dolls, but I don't want to spend $50 on a doll when at Walmart dolls (only white or creepily tanned so far) are only $19.99! Doesn't make sense. How much are you willing to spend on a birthday gift for a 2 year-old child? How many birthdays do you shop for per year?
P.P.S. We have a winner, link submitted by Rebecca Lee! It's a store called scholar's choice across from Sherway Gardens mall: http://toys.scholarschoice.ca/products/Dolls-Dollhouses-2049/Dolls-2354/
Take-out time
GUEST POST by ELISA ALBY, owner of LA MAMMA FILES
I'm not a food critic, I'm a mom.
A mom who agonizes over what to make for dinner. My husband can rely on that daily phone call where I query him on what to have for dinner. In other areas I am a planner. But somehow the complexities of planning a week's worth of meals --what with the shopping, thawing, measuring, timing-- simply confounds me. So it brings great relief when take-out Friday rolls around; or take-out Thursday, as is often the case at our house. This only leaves the challenge of where to go for take-out.
Here are a few spots we've tried in and around the Junction.
1. Babul Kabob, 341 Jane Street, 416-760-8007.
A small nook on Jane( just south of Annette) run by an Afghan family, serving up kabobs, rice and salads. Some friends of mine with young kids of their own recommended it, so we tried it out. The kabobs were tasty, though not mind blowing. I did enjoy the Ghabeli Rice which is an afghan dish of rice cooked with sugar, cumin, carrot and raisins. It is sweet and a good choice for children. Reasonably priced, it is a good choice for take-out night.
2. Roti Time, 2542 St. Clair Ave. W. (at Runnymede Ave.), 416-901-8311.
When I discovered that there was a place for roti so close by, I was thrilled. Even more so when I learned that the place was originally connected to the owners of Ghandi on Queen West. After obsessing about it for weeks we finally went for it. If you've had roti then you know that it is a hearty meal. My husband went and came back with butter chicken for me and lamb vindaloo for himself, which were thoroughly enjoyed. I think next time I want to try some of the veggie options. The place is run by Supriya Vellore who learned how to make the roti form the original owners. If you are in a rush you may have to skip it because each curry is made to order and it can get busy in there.
3. Westwood Grill 519 Annette Street, 416-604-8822 or 416-604-8868
Chinese is always a family favourite and Westwood Grill goes above and beyond your typical Chinese resto with Dim Sum offerings and some Thai dishes. The thing I really appreciate is that they don't use MSG, which is important to me when feeding a toddler -- let alone myself. I also love the convenience of their online ordering system, makes it such a breeze for someone who is attached to her digital devices, and if you don't feel like picking up, they deliver.
Since I'm always on the lookout for more options, these are next on my list:
Indian Kiss
Outhouse
What are your faves?
I'm not a food critic, I'm a mom.
A mom who agonizes over what to make for dinner. My husband can rely on that daily phone call where I query him on what to have for dinner. In other areas I am a planner. But somehow the complexities of planning a week's worth of meals --what with the shopping, thawing, measuring, timing-- simply confounds me. So it brings great relief when take-out Friday rolls around; or take-out Thursday, as is often the case at our house. This only leaves the challenge of where to go for take-out.
Here are a few spots we've tried in and around the Junction.
1. Babul Kabob, 341 Jane Street, 416-760-8007.
A small nook on Jane( just south of Annette) run by an Afghan family, serving up kabobs, rice and salads. Some friends of mine with young kids of their own recommended it, so we tried it out. The kabobs were tasty, though not mind blowing. I did enjoy the Ghabeli Rice which is an afghan dish of rice cooked with sugar, cumin, carrot and raisins. It is sweet and a good choice for children. Reasonably priced, it is a good choice for take-out night.
2. Roti Time, 2542 St. Clair Ave. W. (at Runnymede Ave.), 416-901-8311.
When I discovered that there was a place for roti so close by, I was thrilled. Even more so when I learned that the place was originally connected to the owners of Ghandi on Queen West. After obsessing about it for weeks we finally went for it. If you've had roti then you know that it is a hearty meal. My husband went and came back with butter chicken for me and lamb vindaloo for himself, which were thoroughly enjoyed. I think next time I want to try some of the veggie options. The place is run by Supriya Vellore who learned how to make the roti form the original owners. If you are in a rush you may have to skip it because each curry is made to order and it can get busy in there.
3. Westwood Grill 519 Annette Street, 416-604-8822 or 416-604-8868
Chinese is always a family favourite and Westwood Grill goes above and beyond your typical Chinese resto with Dim Sum offerings and some Thai dishes. The thing I really appreciate is that they don't use MSG, which is important to me when feeding a toddler -- let alone myself. I also love the convenience of their online ordering system, makes it such a breeze for someone who is attached to her digital devices, and if you don't feel like picking up, they deliver.
Since I'm always on the lookout for more options, these are next on my list:
Indian Kiss
Outhouse
What are your faves?
Mar 18, 2011
Just KID'n Around Family Play & Learn Centre has graciously offered to financially sponsor the Junction Parents Meetup Group! THANK YOU!
M6P 3S8
Mon - Thurs: 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
Fri: 9:00 am - 8:00 am
Sat: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sun: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Saturdays and Sundays are reserved for private parties.
INDOOR PLAY-GYM - PARTY CENTRAL - PLAYSCHOOL - AFTERSCHOOL CLUB - FITNESS & DANCE STUDIO
Just KID'n Around is your one stop shop for family fun! We offer something for every member of your family. Caregivers can enjoy a hot cup of coffee, while your little ones explore our play area. We offer Wi-Fi and a comfortable seating area to lounge in, chat or just relax in a worry-free environment.
For those of you with child care needs, we offer a full-day Playschool as well as a Before & Afterschool program and various Enrichment Programs throughout the day.
From Dundas West Station take Bus #168 Symington to Dupont - walk 2.5 blocks West
OR
From Dundas West Station take BUs #40 Junction to Dupont - Walk 1-2 blocks East
416-531-3489
Please CLICK HERE to view all of our sponsors
Mar 17, 2011
CPR class & Red Cross fundraising event at High Park Family Fun Place
Submitted by:
Wendell Ramlogan
Vital CPR – First Aid Training
Authorized Canadian Red Cross Training Partner
http://www.vitalcpr.com/
416.855.7813
On Sunday March 20th, we will be providing a CPR class at HPFFP. The class is perfect for family members or caregivers interested in learning CPR in a more relaxed class. As you already know, HPFFP is a family and community space in the High Park / Junction area. There will be plenty of activities for the children while parents learn.
In light of the recent events in Japan, we have decided to contribute gross proceeds from the class towards the Canadian Red Cross campaign. This means 100% of all class fees will be donated.
Currently, we have space to accomodate up to 20 more participants. We would love to see a full class!
CPR Level C class
Date: Sunday March 20th - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: High Park Family Fun Place - 2968 Dundas St. West (Dundas St West & Pacific Ave)
Fees:
HPFFP member - $30
Non member - $50
HST is included. 100% of fees will be donated to the Canadian Red Cross relief efforts in Japan.
Please register in advance by contacting High Park Family Fun Place at:
Phone: 416-762-3999
Website: http://www.hpfamilyfunplace.ca/ Facebook: http://goo.gl/ZCUFe
Wendell Ramlogan
Vital CPR – First Aid Training
Authorized Canadian Red Cross Training Partner
http://www.vitalcpr.com/
416.855.7813
On Sunday March 20th, we will be providing a CPR class at HPFFP. The class is perfect for family members or caregivers interested in learning CPR in a more relaxed class. As you already know, HPFFP is a family and community space in the High Park / Junction area. There will be plenty of activities for the children while parents learn.
In light of the recent events in Japan, we have decided to contribute gross proceeds from the class towards the Canadian Red Cross campaign. This means 100% of all class fees will be donated.
Currently, we have space to accomodate up to 20 more participants. We would love to see a full class!
CPR Level C class
Date: Sunday March 20th - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: High Park Family Fun Place - 2968 Dundas St. West (Dundas St West & Pacific Ave)
Fees:
HPFFP member - $30
Non member - $50
HST is included. 100% of fees will be donated to the Canadian Red Cross relief efforts in Japan.
Please register in advance by contacting High Park Family Fun Place at:
Phone: 416-762-3999
Website: http://www.hpfamilyfunplace.ca/ Facebook: http://goo.gl/ZCUFe
Teaching Babies Sign Language: The Benefits and a Quick How To
GUEST POST by MARINA SIMONIC - Marina is a stay at home mom of two children, an ECE, as well as an Independent Certified Instructor of The Baby Signs Program. She blogs frequently about her adventures at http://www.twelvemonthsofjune.blogspot.com/
I think one of the phrases we hear most about babies, other than how cute or beautiful they are, is "I wonder what they are thinking". I know that I myself have thought that often, with my own children and when I worked in the infant and toddler rooms as an ECE.
Around the time my eldest son was eight months old, while perusing the parenting books section of our local Chapters store, I stumbled across a book about baby sign language, and it peaked my interest. I had learned about signing with babies during college, but it was a quick overview and honestly, I had forgotten all about it by the time I had my son.
That one moment at Chapters changed my parenting life forever. I know that sounds a bit cliche, but it is the truth. After reading the book "Baby Signs" by Dr.s Linda Acredolo and Susan Goodwyn, I tried it out with my son. Because he was already almost 9 months old, he picked the signs up quickly and eagerly and I was amazed when at around 12 months old, he not only had a repertoire of over 40 signs, but was stringing them together to make short 4-5 word sentences and had started creating signs on his own for words he didn't know the signs for. We could communicate with each other on a level that I never thought possible. He had so much to say about the world around him, and could easily let me know how he was feeling or what was wrong.
I was so taken by the whole experience I became certified to teach baby signs through the Baby Signs Program, and began running classes and workshops for parents and educators.
One concern that comes up at every class and workshop is that teaching babies to sign will slow down or stop their learning how to speak. This is simply not true. Using an analogy from the Baby Signs Program, a baby doesn't lose interest in learning how to walk just because they already know how to crawl. Also, when babies say their first words, they often sound differently from how the word is really pronounced. For example, they might say BA for bottle, or MO for no. These approximations don't limit baby's ability to learn to say the word correctly, just like signing doesn't stop children from learning to speak.
The key to language building is your words that go with the signs. As a parent or educator, you talk to children all day long, and signing doesn't stop that. Instead, you are giving children an action to go with your words, just like we sing action songs and finger plays. For example, when you are getting your child's lunch ready, you tell them it is time to eat, and when you speak the word eat, you simultaneously do the sign. Repeat the phrase a few times each time you are feed your child and they will begin to make the connection between the word and the sign. We always use the word and sign together.
Think of it as a stepping stone toward language, allowing babies to express themselves much earlier in their lives then if they were to wait for verbal speech to develop. Studies have shown that having this head start actually increases their language skills, simply because they have had more time to practice the art of communication. Most importantly though, it give babies and toddlers a voice during a time when they don't have the oral motor skills to fully express themselves. This voices allows them to connect with care givers on a new level, deepening relationships and strengthen bonds.
So, where to get started!
Like I said before, if your baby is six months or a bit older, start with signs they will see most often, like those the are centered around feeding. Let's face it, at that age, most babies get very excited about food and feeding times. For a baby that is older and has started to have more detailed interests like animals and specific toys, you can choose a few signs for words that you say frequently, like cat, dog, ball, car.
The main thing with starting signing is choosing signs for words you say often through out the day so your baby is exposed to the sign multiple times. My son was older when we started and while I started with signs for eating times he showed little interest in learning them. When I introduced signs for the animals in his favourite book, he picked them up extremely quickly. Since so much depends on the child, you may have to play around with the signs you start with.
I always recommend that parents only start with a few, and build from there once you see your child is picking it up. Starting with more can become overwhelming and everyone will get frustrated. Also, know that the ability to sign is directly related to the motor skills of your baby, so the younger a child is when you start, the longer you will have to wait to see them signing. Patience is key.
Below I have listed some great websites you can go to for more information, and the signs themselves.
For examples of signing:
ASL Pro - an online video dictionary of American Sign Language that has an ASL for babies option showing simplified ASL signs: http://aslbrowser.commtechlab.msu.edu/browser.htm
Signing Savvy - another online video dictionary with a baby sign option - http://www.signingsavvy.com/
For more information on the benefits of signing:
The Baby Signs Program official website, parent's section: https://www.babysigns.com/index.cfm?id=5
An article on CBC's website about a serial they did on the news: http://www.cbc.ca/news/background/babysign
General information about baby signing: http://www.babies-and-sign-language.com/
Happy Signing Everyone!!!
Marina
I think one of the phrases we hear most about babies, other than how cute or beautiful they are, is "I wonder what they are thinking". I know that I myself have thought that often, with my own children and when I worked in the infant and toddler rooms as an ECE.
Around the time my eldest son was eight months old, while perusing the parenting books section of our local Chapters store, I stumbled across a book about baby sign language, and it peaked my interest. I had learned about signing with babies during college, but it was a quick overview and honestly, I had forgotten all about it by the time I had my son.
That one moment at Chapters changed my parenting life forever. I know that sounds a bit cliche, but it is the truth. After reading the book "Baby Signs" by Dr.s Linda Acredolo and Susan Goodwyn, I tried it out with my son. Because he was already almost 9 months old, he picked the signs up quickly and eagerly and I was amazed when at around 12 months old, he not only had a repertoire of over 40 signs, but was stringing them together to make short 4-5 word sentences and had started creating signs on his own for words he didn't know the signs for. We could communicate with each other on a level that I never thought possible. He had so much to say about the world around him, and could easily let me know how he was feeling or what was wrong.
I was so taken by the whole experience I became certified to teach baby signs through the Baby Signs Program, and began running classes and workshops for parents and educators.
One concern that comes up at every class and workshop is that teaching babies to sign will slow down or stop their learning how to speak. This is simply not true. Using an analogy from the Baby Signs Program, a baby doesn't lose interest in learning how to walk just because they already know how to crawl. Also, when babies say their first words, they often sound differently from how the word is really pronounced. For example, they might say BA for bottle, or MO for no. These approximations don't limit baby's ability to learn to say the word correctly, just like signing doesn't stop children from learning to speak.
The key to language building is your words that go with the signs. As a parent or educator, you talk to children all day long, and signing doesn't stop that. Instead, you are giving children an action to go with your words, just like we sing action songs and finger plays. For example, when you are getting your child's lunch ready, you tell them it is time to eat, and when you speak the word eat, you simultaneously do the sign. Repeat the phrase a few times each time you are feed your child and they will begin to make the connection between the word and the sign. We always use the word and sign together.
Think of it as a stepping stone toward language, allowing babies to express themselves much earlier in their lives then if they were to wait for verbal speech to develop. Studies have shown that having this head start actually increases their language skills, simply because they have had more time to practice the art of communication. Most importantly though, it give babies and toddlers a voice during a time when they don't have the oral motor skills to fully express themselves. This voices allows them to connect with care givers on a new level, deepening relationships and strengthen bonds.
So, where to get started!
Like I said before, if your baby is six months or a bit older, start with signs they will see most often, like those the are centered around feeding. Let's face it, at that age, most babies get very excited about food and feeding times. For a baby that is older and has started to have more detailed interests like animals and specific toys, you can choose a few signs for words that you say frequently, like cat, dog, ball, car.
The main thing with starting signing is choosing signs for words you say often through out the day so your baby is exposed to the sign multiple times. My son was older when we started and while I started with signs for eating times he showed little interest in learning them. When I introduced signs for the animals in his favourite book, he picked them up extremely quickly. Since so much depends on the child, you may have to play around with the signs you start with.
I always recommend that parents only start with a few, and build from there once you see your child is picking it up. Starting with more can become overwhelming and everyone will get frustrated. Also, know that the ability to sign is directly related to the motor skills of your baby, so the younger a child is when you start, the longer you will have to wait to see them signing. Patience is key.
Below I have listed some great websites you can go to for more information, and the signs themselves.
For examples of signing:
ASL Pro - an online video dictionary of American Sign Language that has an ASL for babies option showing simplified ASL signs: http://aslbrowser.commtechlab.msu.edu/browser.htm
Signing Savvy - another online video dictionary with a baby sign option - http://www.signingsavvy.com/
For more information on the benefits of signing:
The Baby Signs Program official website, parent's section: https://www.babysigns.com/index.cfm?id=5
An article on CBC's website about a serial they did on the news: http://www.cbc.ca/news/background/babysign
General information about baby signing: http://www.babies-and-sign-language.com/
Happy Signing Everyone!!!
Marina
Mar 15, 2011
FREE Babywearing Workshop, only 8 spots left!
Monday, April 11, 10:30 AM
Are you overwhelmed with choosing a baby carrier for your baby? Is you current carrier uncomfortable for you or your baby? Do you want to learn about the many different kinds of carriers? Then this workshop is for you!
Come out and learn about all the kinds of carriers available, and how to use them. Try out a carrier or get help with using your own carrier.
I will demonstrate how to use the following: pouch(eg: Hotslings), ring sling, mei tai (eg: Babyhawk), soft-structured carrier(eg: Ergo), stretchy wrap(eg: Moby), and woven wrap. Then there will be time for the group to try out the different carriers and get help with different ways to use them. I can even help with learning back-carries, if anyone is interested.
This workshop is great for parents of newborns trying to decide on a type of carrier, parents who are having trouble with their current carrier, and parents of bigger babies and toddlers who want to learn more about babywearing bigger children.
All children are welcome to join us, of course! There is an elevator to get to the basement but it is a HUGE pain to use, so if you can avoid bringing a big stroller it's easier. But there is lots of space to store strollers once you get downstairs, so we'll manage fine.
Mar 13, 2011
Impromptu outdoor playdate @ the High Park Zoo tomorrow (Monday, March 14th at 10 am)
“Great place for the kids to safely run around (no cars!) and say hello to all the animals.”
Meet down the hill at the High Park Zoo entrance on the side of the Grenadier Restaurant (not by the zoo parking lot), by the wooden gates.
Mar 12, 2011
Our thoughts and hopes are with people of Japan today, please donate to the Canadian Red Cross!
Info taken from the Canadian Red Cross website..
Red Cross responds to major earthquake in Japan and tsunami across Asia Pacific
(OTTAWA, March 11, 2011) – The Red Cross is responding to a powerful 8.9 magnitude earthquake that struck Japan overnight. The earthquake, the worst in Japan’s history, has triggered a tsunami warning across 20 countries along the Pacific coast.
The Red Cross response was immediate. Local volunteers have been working around the clock to support emergency response efforts including evacuation, search and rescue and emergency first aid.
The Canadian Red Cross is monitoring the situation closely and is ready to rapidly respond with emergency supplies and personnel if needed.
Canadians are encouraged to support Red Cross relief efforts by making a financial donation to the Canadian Red Cross Japan Earthquake/Asia-Pacific Tsunami fund. Donations can be made online at www.redcross.ca/helpnow , at your local branch office or by calling toll free 1-800-418-1111.
"What have YOU been doing?"
GUEST POST BY MARINA-UNGER SIMONIC- LOCAL MOM OF TWO
"What have YOU been doing?"
Because I'm all out of ideas.
What in heavens name have you been doing with your little ones during this horrible end of winter, beginning of spring snow-rain-snow-slush-rain-snow weather?
Because we have done A LOT.
There is one thing that the kidlets don't like all that much. And that is weather that you can't go out and play in. And there aren't many days that go by where we aren't outside for at least a few hours, no matter the weather.
But these last few weeks, the parks have been wet, soggy and muddy. As is our back yard. And front yard. And balcony. And porch. And... well, you get the idea.
So we've been doing a lot of stuff indoors.
We have created obstacle courses, made paper hats, boats and airplanes, rebuilt our megabloks construction sets in to every configuration possible and then some. Baked cookies, loafs, brownies and cupcakes, alphabetized our DVD collection (hey, it's educational), danced, discoed, shimmied and shaked.
We have cleaned, sorted laundry (again, educational) made musical instruments out of recycling, made caterpillars, flowers, spiders and buttons out of egg cartons, taken home so many boxes from the grocery store my husband thinks we are moving somewhere.
We go on play dates and to the library.
We've started watching Disney VHS tapes.
We have done everything I can think of doing, and I am an ECE. You'd think the ideas would be endless.
Not so much.
Inevitably, we end up outside, after ten minutes of my attempting to figure out what outdoor clothes they will need. Usually, it ends up looking something like this: winter hat, boots and mitts, fleece sweater and rain coat.
And we walk with our umbrellas to jump in the puddles, make some snow balls and kick the slush. As fun as all that is, we do eventually end up back inside staring at each other, wondering who is going to make the first move.
Please help me out here.
What have YOU been doing?
Cheers!
Marina
http://www.twelvemonthsofjune.blogspot.com/
"What have YOU been doing?"
Because I'm all out of ideas.
What in heavens name have you been doing with your little ones during this horrible end of winter, beginning of spring snow-rain-snow-slush-rain-snow weather?
Because we have done A LOT.
There is one thing that the kidlets don't like all that much. And that is weather that you can't go out and play in. And there aren't many days that go by where we aren't outside for at least a few hours, no matter the weather.
But these last few weeks, the parks have been wet, soggy and muddy. As is our back yard. And front yard. And balcony. And porch. And... well, you get the idea.
So we've been doing a lot of stuff indoors.
We have created obstacle courses, made paper hats, boats and airplanes, rebuilt our megabloks construction sets in to every configuration possible and then some. Baked cookies, loafs, brownies and cupcakes, alphabetized our DVD collection (hey, it's educational), danced, discoed, shimmied and shaked.
We have cleaned, sorted laundry (again, educational) made musical instruments out of recycling, made caterpillars, flowers, spiders and buttons out of egg cartons, taken home so many boxes from the grocery store my husband thinks we are moving somewhere.
We go on play dates and to the library.
We've started watching Disney VHS tapes.
We have done everything I can think of doing, and I am an ECE. You'd think the ideas would be endless.
Not so much.
Inevitably, we end up outside, after ten minutes of my attempting to figure out what outdoor clothes they will need. Usually, it ends up looking something like this: winter hat, boots and mitts, fleece sweater and rain coat.
And we walk with our umbrellas to jump in the puddles, make some snow balls and kick the slush. As fun as all that is, we do eventually end up back inside staring at each other, wondering who is going to make the first move.
Please help me out here.
What have YOU been doing?
Cheers!
Marina
http://www.twelvemonthsofjune.blogspot.com/
Mar 11, 2011
"And What Do You Do?"
GUEST POST BY TREVA THOMPSON ,Co-Organizer of the JUNCTION PARENTS MEETUP GROUP
The scenario: Any social gathering. I’m introduced to someone. After a few pleasantries, the conversation invariably turns to a discussion of career.
“And what do you do?”
“I’m a stay-at-home mom of a 7-year old boy and 5-year old twin girls.”
This is often followed by uncomfortable silence and a meager attempt to acknowledge how busy I must be, a quick change of the subject then a thinly veiled excuse to extricate themselves.
It’s a conversation killer.
I have always wanted to be a mother. As the eldest of four children, I knew at a very early age that I wanted to have children of my own. When my husband and I decided to start trying after 2 years of marriage, I was thrilled and couldn’t wait until that little stick showed me a plus sign.
When I became pregnant with our first son Luka, I was working on Bay Street for a brokerage firm (not exactly a family friendly environment). I loved being home for the 12-months of maternity leave and hated leaving him at daycare to return to a job that I had discovered I didn’t love. Soon after, we decided to start trying for a second baby and were quite surprised to become pregnant with twins when my son was only 14-months old. And so when Luka was not quite 2 years old, we were blessed with identical twin girls- Klara and Mila.
Yes, your math is correct. That is three kids in less than two years.
A review of finances and some soul-searching confirmed that it would make sense for me to stay home with the kids until they started school. My husband’s career was on the cusp of taking off and having a stay-at-home spouse would enable him to work late and travel if necessary. I was thrilled (and a bit trepidatious) to be fulfilling my lifelong dream of making a career of parenting.
Nearly six years later, I’ve weathered a gazillion diaper changes, potty training x 3, kids learning to walk, talk and talk back, starting school and homework, mountains of laundry, endless meal preparation and housework. My son is in grade two. My daughters are in SK. In six months (yes, I’m counting), all three will be in school full-time.
So where does that leave me? I’m still at home with the kids. My husband’s job has him traveling at least twice a month for up to six days at a time and it still doesn’t make sense for me to go back to working outside the home, at least if I want to maintain my sanity. How do I justify my existence? I consider raising healthy and considerate kids to be my full-time career. My days are filled with the usual unending household duties, coordinating school activities, obsessively reading parenting books and blogs and, from time to time, finding a few moments for self-reflection.
I hope you’ll join me on my journey of redefining my identity as a SAHMOSAK (stay-at-home mom of school-aged kids). I am certainly no “lady who lunches”. Commiserate with my (mis)adventures in raising pre-tween kids and the joys and challenges that are sure to follow. Perhaps I’ll find that being a SAHMOSAK isn’t such a conversation killer after all.
Happy reading!
To read Treva's other posts, visit her brand new blog: http://www.sixtotenmom.com/
The scenario: Any social gathering. I’m introduced to someone. After a few pleasantries, the conversation invariably turns to a discussion of career.
“And what do you do?”
“I’m a stay-at-home mom of a 7-year old boy and 5-year old twin girls.”
This is often followed by uncomfortable silence and a meager attempt to acknowledge how busy I must be, a quick change of the subject then a thinly veiled excuse to extricate themselves.
It’s a conversation killer.
I have always wanted to be a mother. As the eldest of four children, I knew at a very early age that I wanted to have children of my own. When my husband and I decided to start trying after 2 years of marriage, I was thrilled and couldn’t wait until that little stick showed me a plus sign.
When I became pregnant with our first son Luka, I was working on Bay Street for a brokerage firm (not exactly a family friendly environment). I loved being home for the 12-months of maternity leave and hated leaving him at daycare to return to a job that I had discovered I didn’t love. Soon after, we decided to start trying for a second baby and were quite surprised to become pregnant with twins when my son was only 14-months old. And so when Luka was not quite 2 years old, we were blessed with identical twin girls- Klara and Mila.
Yes, your math is correct. That is three kids in less than two years.
A review of finances and some soul-searching confirmed that it would make sense for me to stay home with the kids until they started school. My husband’s career was on the cusp of taking off and having a stay-at-home spouse would enable him to work late and travel if necessary. I was thrilled (and a bit trepidatious) to be fulfilling my lifelong dream of making a career of parenting.
Nearly six years later, I’ve weathered a gazillion diaper changes, potty training x 3, kids learning to walk, talk and talk back, starting school and homework, mountains of laundry, endless meal preparation and housework. My son is in grade two. My daughters are in SK. In six months (yes, I’m counting), all three will be in school full-time.
So where does that leave me? I’m still at home with the kids. My husband’s job has him traveling at least twice a month for up to six days at a time and it still doesn’t make sense for me to go back to working outside the home, at least if I want to maintain my sanity. How do I justify my existence? I consider raising healthy and considerate kids to be my full-time career. My days are filled with the usual unending household duties, coordinating school activities, obsessively reading parenting books and blogs and, from time to time, finding a few moments for self-reflection.
I hope you’ll join me on my journey of redefining my identity as a SAHMOSAK (stay-at-home mom of school-aged kids). I am certainly no “lady who lunches”. Commiserate with my (mis)adventures in raising pre-tween kids and the joys and challenges that are sure to follow. Perhaps I’ll find that being a SAHMOSAK isn’t such a conversation killer after all.
Happy reading!
To read Treva's other posts, visit her brand new blog: http://www.sixtotenmom.com/
Mar 9, 2011
New Junction Community Message Board & Calendar
Uniting all the West Toronto Junction non-profit organizations, residents and local businesses, give everyone a voice! Discuss new developments, retail, heritage, neighbourhood safety, urban gardening, post yard sales, share your photos, get to know your neighbours.
To visit the new community website, click HERE
Scriptwriting program for students ages 8 - 12 @ Annette Street Public Library
"Sophie's Studio" offers a series of workshops promoting creativity and writing for school-aged children.
Saturdays, April 2, 9, 16 and 23
2 – 3:30 p.m.
At the Annette Street Public Library, author and screenwriter Paula Wing will host "Tasty Words".
In this lively scriptwriting workshop playwright Paula Wing will give participants the tools to create
vivid, believable characters, construct killer short plays and/or screenplays, and make their writing
sharp and funny.
The workshop is open to children ages 8 - 12, and is limited to 20 participants
Annette Street Library
145 Annette st
Phone 416-393-7692
Saturdays, April 2, 9, 16 and 23
2 – 3:30 p.m.
At the Annette Street Public Library, author and screenwriter Paula Wing will host "Tasty Words".
In this lively scriptwriting workshop playwright Paula Wing will give participants the tools to create
vivid, believable characters, construct killer short plays and/or screenplays, and make their writing
sharp and funny.
The workshop is open to children ages 8 - 12, and is limited to 20 participants
Annette Street Library
145 Annette st
Phone 416-393-7692
Mar 8, 2011
Very cute kids' clothing and baby care items @ Green Lavender Eco Store
Green Lavender Eco store and Yoga Studio
2842 Dundas St. West, M6P 1Y7
416.792.2447
Beautiful hand-made items for kids @ Wise Daughters
Wise Daughters Craft Market
3079B Dundas St. West
Toronto, M6P 1Z9
(facing Quebec Ave, just south of Dundas
Mar 6, 2011
Yes, it's as good as it looks
I saw this stunning beauty that tastes and smells as good as it looks at Espresso Mi Vida (392 Pacific Ave at Dundas St W) yesterday, just HAD to share it :)
More new retail in the Junction!
The Yarn Boutique moved from Bloor and Keele to Dundas and St.Johns Rd, occupying Bill Saundercook's old office.
New sushi take-out, opening soon at Dundas and Pacific, where the Bronto Burger used to be, let's hope it's good :)
Mar 4, 2011
THANK YOU, JUNCTION!
The Junction Parents Blog turns 3 years-old on Tuesday, March 15th!!!! Thanks everyone for encouraging me to keep at it, thanks to our amazing sponsors for trusting me to promote their Junction-based businesses, thanks to Treva for being there for the blog when it really counted, thanks to all of my friends for enduring my constant Facebook and blogpost updates about the neighbourhood, thanks to Robert Hilts for adding Junction Parents feed to Junctioneer from the very beginning (BTW, Happy 3'rd Birthday to JUNCTIONEER as well!), thanks to the Junction neighbourhood for being so inspiring, down to earth, welcoming and socially conscious! The Junction Parents Blog stats last night showed that we had 515 visitors in total just from the last 24 hours, thanks everyone for reading and contributing!
Irina
http://junctionparents.ca/
Irina
http://junctionparents.ca/
April Program Calendar for Dundas/Keele Early Years Centre
for Parkdale-High Park Early Years Centre (Dundas and Keele)
2918 Dundas St. West
M6P 1Y8
416-762-3700
http://www.ontarioearlyyears.ca/
http://www.ontarioearlyyears.ca/
New session of Parent-Child Mother Goose is starting in April with registration beginning next Friday, March 11th @ 1:30 in the afternoon.
Mar 3, 2011
“Gardening Upfront" - with GREEN 13
Community Meeting :
All about Urban Edible Gardens
Monday March 21, 2011 ~ 6:30 pm
Annette Branch Public Library
145 Annette Street, Toronto
(between Pacific & Keele)
With special Guest: Andrew Roy from Green Gardeners
**Successful Front Yard Gardens with tips on how to intersperse vegetables with perennials & shrubs
** Info about City Bylaws pertaining to Gardening In Front Yards
**Connect with Others who are growing Food in our Community
**Seeds for Sale
**Get a free package of vegetable seeds
Green 13 is an environmental group dedicated to the promotion of community projects, education and advocacy of greener lifestyles.
www.green13toronto.org
All about Urban Edible Gardens
Monday March 21, 2011 ~ 6:30 pm
Annette Branch Public Library
145 Annette Street, Toronto
(between Pacific & Keele)
With special Guest: Andrew Roy from Green Gardeners
**Successful Front Yard Gardens with tips on how to intersperse vegetables with perennials & shrubs
** Info about City Bylaws pertaining to Gardening In Front Yards
**Connect with Others who are growing Food in our Community
**Seeds for Sale
**Get a free package of vegetable seeds
Green 13 is an environmental group dedicated to the promotion of community projects, education and advocacy of greener lifestyles.
www.green13toronto.org
Mommy's L'il Monkey Blankets @ The Wise Daughter's Craft Market
Wise Daughters Craft Market
Locally handmade crafts and do-it-yourself workshops
3079B Dundas St. West
M6P 1Z9
416-761-1555
www.wisedaughters.com
Spring "One of a Kind" Tickets and Gift Certificate Giveaway by VintageBabyRevival!
Grand Prize: $50 Gift Certificate to Vintage Baby Revival plus one pair of tickets to the Spring One of a Kind Show and Sale
Runner Up: Two pairs of tickets to the Spring One of a Kind Sale
Giveaway details HERE
Photography lessons for kids by "Tangerine Photo"
Junior Photo Bugs (ages 5-7)- Tuesdays 4:15 – 5:15 pm March 22nd – April 5th $135.00 for 3 classes, a camera is not required
Senior Photo Bugs (ages 8-12)- Wednesdays 4:15 – 5:15 pm March 23rd – April 6th $135.00 for 3 classes (children are asked to bring in a digital camera)
406 Pacific Ave (at Dundas)
Toronto, ON, M6P 2R4
info@tangerine-photo.com
416.769.7684
Tangerine Photography, located in the Junction, is a well recognized neighborhood portrait studio specializing in simplistic Child photography
More info HERE
Nice photography offer to everyone who reads this blog!
Since I just had the logo I designed added to the wonderful Junction Parents blog I wanted to do a special Junction Promo. I love the Junction and the Junction Parents Blog is a shining example of what is so great about where we live. It is all about us being there for each other to help our community get better and grow stronger together. If we all support each other we all thrive.
So if you book a photo shoot with me after seeing me on the blog will receive a photo session (in your home or any other location of choice including outdoors) plus the package below for the special rate of $99 (inc tax).
An hour long photo shoot.
An online slideshow to preview images (available for 1 week) with approximately 25 specially edited images to view & share with family.
A Lo Res DVD of all the images watermarked ready to share via email or online.
I will also give your $99 back in the form of a print credit to let you pick out some of your favourite images from the shoot.
If you prefer, after you see the images, for an additional $50 with your the print credit you can order a Hi Res DVD this comes with full print release. This allows you to print as many photos as large as you want.
This package is available to be used for any type of shoot, family, business promos, engagement etc... (with the exception of weddings)
MORE INFO HERE
Mar 2, 2011
"Tea Blendz" -Grand Opening March 8th, an exciting new business in our neighbourhood!
Welcome to the neighbourhood and thanks for choosing the Junction!
Text taken from their WEBSITE:
"Tea Blendz's mission is to change the perception of tea; what was once your grandmother's drink is now a fun and healthy beverage of choice. To complement the large selection of premium teas, Tea Blendz has a fabulous line of premium tea ware to aid in the brewing and drinking of loose leaf teas. So please, drop by, discover the world of tea and soothe the spirit!!"
2877 Dundas Street West,
Toronto ON M6P 1Y9
MAP
2877 Dundas Street West,
Toronto ON M6P 1Y9
MAP
Mar 1, 2011
Junction Residents Association Meeting
Members Meeting, Function in the Junction plus more
Message from the Junction Residents Association
JRA Members Meeting this Thursday, March 10 at 7 pm
The meeting is at the West Toronto Baptist Church, 3049 Dundas Street West. Come out, meet your neighbours and help shape the Junction by getting involved
Book Discussion: Cinderella Ate My Daughter
"Pitter Potter" -formerly Earthstones
3082 Dundas St. W (by Quebec ave)
Cinderella Ate My Daughter is a great book by Peggy Orenstein exploring the implications of the super girlie culture for our daughters. Let's get together to talk about the book and share our ideas and experiences with the princess culture.
From the cover:
"Pink and pretty or predatory and hardened, sexualized girlhood influences our daughters from infancy onward, telling them that how a girl looks matters more than who she is. Somewhere between the exhilarating rise of Girl Power in the 1990s and today, the pursuit of physical perfection has been recast as a source—the source—of female empowerment. And commercialization has spread the message faster and farther, reaching girls at ever-younger ages."
Feel free to bring snacks or drinks.
PLEASE RSVP HERE
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