March Break is quickly approaching, and we are pleased to bring you exciting camps and events, to help you plan a memorable holiday for your family.
PLAYDIUM THE ULTIMATE PLACE TO PLAY! Sponsored Listing: March Break Special - Playdium Playcard packed with 220 credits for $30.00 + HST. That’s an extra $5 of credits FREE! Available March 9 - 17th, 2013 only. The Ultimate March Break Destination! Playdium Mississauga, 99 Rathburn Road West, Mississauga.
Cool Kicks! March Break Sneaker Fun at the Bata Shoe Museum Sponsored Listing Lace up for some sneaker fun during March Break at the Bata Shoe Museum! Try on cool sneakers, decorate a sneaker-shaped cookie, place your footprint on our walk of fame, make a sneaker friendship pin, tie dye some shoelaces, win prizes and much more!
Scooby-Doo Live! Musical Mysteries: Sony Centre For The Performing Arts, Mar. 15 - 16, sonycentre.ca Sponsored Listing Jeepers! SCOOBY-DOO and the gang have been called in to solve a mystery in Toronto. A trouble-making ghost is haunting the theatre and SHAGGY, FRED, DAPHNE, VELMA and SCOOBY-DOO are on their way in the MYSTERY MACHINE to solve it!
Camp Wabikon - A Fantastic Summer Opportunity! Sponsored Listing An experience kids love. A family parents trust. We are one of Canada’s finest international camps for youth ages 6 -17. Join us at Wabikon for a summer you’ll never forget! Contact us today for a free DVD package and references in your area.
DISNEY ON ICE “ROCKIN’ EVER AFTER” Sponsored Listing: Disney On Ice presents Rockin’ Ever After, an all-new live production coming to Toronto from March 13-17 at the Rogers Centre. Get ready to rock out with some of the most magical idols across the kingdom! Save up to $15 and eliminate extra fees and taxes when you purchase tickets from AV Communications. Use promo code AV4100 to get 4 tickets for $100 ($42 value per ticket) only on Ticketmaster.ca.
Exciting & Full Service March Break and Passover Camp for all GTA Sponsored Listing Adventure Valley welcomes children from JK through Grade 6 for our most dynamic School Holiday camp ever! Kinder kids will enjoy a wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities, special guests, and theme days! Our older campers will design their own schedule from an incredible list of choices. Lunch and snack included, bussing available to most areas of the GTA.
Getting Creative this School Holiday Sponsored Listing: Get creative with your children this March or Passover Break, and inspire some special memories by bringing the exciting activities in Creative IQ: Giving Young Learners the Creative Edge in a Competitive World to life together. Activities relate to fitness, cooking, art, drama, music, science and more. Limited time FREE SHIPPING OFFER.
I badly needed to update my photos of Bowmanville Zoo so last weekend, I decided to do something very daring… I took three teens to the small zoo, with a friend of mine. (Actually, it wasn’t that daring. One of them had expressed the desire to visit a zoo to take animal shots.)
It is worth describing Bowmanville Zoo at this time of the year since it will be open daily throughout September and on weekends until Thanksgiving Weekend (including Thanksgiving Monday).
Perfect stroll in the fall
We all loved it! After an incredibly hot summer, the cooler sun of September was more than welcome and the animals were quite lively.
The site is filled with mature trees so it is always nice to stroll around this zoo. (We saw many three-generation families enjoying the premises.) They provide shadow in the summer and the colours are gorgeous in the fall.
What makes it even better is the catwalk Bowmanville Zoo has added over a little forest near the Animatheatre. It is an upraised boardwalk allowing us to look at two wolves and one lion down below (not in the same pen). Weather allowing, after the shows in the Animatheatre, people can tour the enclosed pens under the catwalk in a bus dressed up as a vintage trolley while a zoo keeper interacts with the animals.
Something fishy!
September is the perfect time to watch salmon swim up the river in the north side of the zoo. We could see (and hear) them from the catwalk. They’re quite big and strong!
Close-up opportunities
One of the reasons it is a great place for young photographers is that we can buy $2 bags of biscuits to feed the animals. They look yummy, in their greasy brown paper bags. (Watch out for your little ones, they probably will be tempted to eat some!)
As soon as the animals see people approaching the fences, they greedily run towards the visitors. (Even at the end of the season, they still haven’t tired of the treats.) All the animals seemed healthy and fit so I’m assuming the biscuits sort of “go through” (if you know what I mean).
The parrots located near the entrance are very colourful and fun to watch. Since they can’t fly, there was no need to put them in a cage, which makes them more interesting to photograph.
Animals, activities and extras
The zoo hosts around 300 animals including: elephant, lions, tapir, all kinds of horned animals, emus, camels, parrots and monkeys.
Activities offered daily during the summer, are still on on the weekends during the fall, such as the shows in the Animatheatre (look for the show schedule at the entrance). They last longer in the summer but we could still enjoy a half-hour performance involving a lemur, a miniature horse and a humongous Asian elephant.
There’s a carrousel and two other little kiddie rides in the Funland by the entrance (staff members operate them one at a time). In the summer, kids can enjoy a large splash pad conveniently equipped with a line of benches for the parents and enjoy more animal encounters.
All these activities are included with the admission. You can pay $6 extra for a ride on the elephant or on a camel near the camel enclosure.
IMPORTANT TIPS:
• Their end-of-the-season admission fees don’t show on their website. It is now $17/adults and $12/children (tax included).
• Go to their website to print a couponfor a free kid admission with a paying adult.
• There’s a Wimpy’s Diner less than one km west of Bowmanville Zooat 219 King Street East in Bowmanville.
•To get to the zoo, take exit 432 off Hwy 401to Liberty Street, then turn right on King East. The zoo will be on your left.
Nathalie Prezeau has played the tourist in and around the city since she moved to Toronto from Montreal 20 years ago. She’s the author of Toronto Fun Places… for families, 5th ed. and the blog Toronto Fun Places. Her new guide, Toronto Urban Strolls… for girlfriends (1) made the Globe & Mail’s bestsellers list this summer. Both guides are sold in major bookstores and on torontofunplaces.com
September is quickly approaching. Browse exciting shopping, program and birthday party ideas, to ensure that your family is prepared for back-to-school time.
$15 for $30 to Spend at Siblings on PeachyBuy.com! Sponsored Listing The trendiest Back-to-School fashion for your 4 to 16 year old can be found at Siblings. Visit PeachyBuy.com TODAY to get your voucher for $30 worth of trendy, affordable, and age-appropriate clothes at Siblings for only $15! Limited quantities, conditions apply.
Back to School Lunch Solutions Sponsored Listing Stainless steel, leak-proof food containers for easy lunch and snack prep. Durable, simple to clean, easy to open and close. Less food contact with plastic. No more leaking lunches. These stylish air-tight lunch containers are the perfect must-have back-to-school accessory!
Back to School with a Biodegradable Lunch Bag Sponsored Listing Pack a truly waste-free lunch for your cheeky monkey or rocket man with our NEW Biodegradable Lunch Bags. Made of a revolutionary material called Ariaprene, this innovative insulating bag is 100% free of toxic chemicals, machine washable and ultra stretchy. Toss it when it’s done, knowing it will disappear in the landfill. Various designs. Pair this bag with the latest reusable food containers and snack pouches for a 100% litterless lunch and take 10% OFF it all with code KIDSCANADA through August 31st .
Walltalk Decorative Quotes & Words for Walls Sponsored Listing: This wonderful Canadian Made product is the perfect inspiration for Kids of all ages. Can be used in lockers, dorms, study areas, bedrooms and more. It is removable without damage to walls and VERY simple to apply! Only $19.99.
Visit our website at www.walltalksales.ca for MORE PRODUCTS; Over 400 available!
The Tiny Tiara Sponsored Listing: Add a tiny bit of pretty to your next celebration with our pretty party supplies, sweet printable party designs and posh party styling services. Everything you need for a sensational celebration can be found in our one-stop pretty party shop. Whether you are looking for favour bags or paper sipping straws, printable labels or completely styled candy buffets, party rentals or on-site ultimate theme parties, there is something for your next party from The Tiny Tiara.
Chamelea Center for Science, Art and Fun Sponsored Listing Ever wonder how you can make a bubble last forever? Or ask yourself why a spider does not stick to its web? Chamelea’s Wonders of Science classes will answer all these questions through fun and hands-on experimentation. Mention promo code SMART FUN and receive 10% off of your registration fee until September 15th.
Pamper Me Princess Spa Parties Sponsored Listing We offer a fun, girly, and creative, atmosphere for the girls. Each girl gets their very own spa gift bag. We offer fully customized packages for ages 3+ , make your own spa products, and all products used are non toxic! Mani, Pedi, Glitter, Make Up and more!
Family Zone Programs at Nepean Museum and Fairfields Sponsored Listing: One weekend a month, both Nepean Museum and Fairfields are hosting special programs for families! From Happy Halloween, to Superhero Snowmen, Christmas at Fairfields and Amazing Autumn Art, it promises to be fun for the whole family! For complete program details please visit: www.nepeanmuseum.ca.
Creative IQ (TM): Giving Young Learners the Creative Edge in a Competitive World Sponsored Listing: Creative IQ(TM): Giving Young Learners the Creative Edge in a Competitive World is a revolutionary new book released just in time to help you prepare your children for the new school year. It is an ideal resource for every parent and teacher who wants to offer creative enrichment that is both fun and exciting. The 100+ activities featured involve art, music, drama, creative movement, cooking, science, mathematics and fitness.
Creative IQ (TM): Giving Young Learners the Creative Edge in a Competitive World
March brings with it the promise of spring and March 2nd is Dr. Seuss’s birthday - the guy who had plenty of SPRING in his step!Theodor Seuss Geisel (March 2, 1904 - September 24, 1991) was a U.S. writer and cartoonist, better known under name Dr. Seuss.Below you will find two fun and colourful activities.In the first, you can create a piece of art, and in the second you will also create a piece of art with the added bonus that it will be EDIBLE!!
Coloured rice collage (non-edible piece of art)
Colouring rice is a unique way to be creative using a medium that kids don’t often get to play with.The following activity has two options.
The first step, in honour of Dr.Seuss’s birthday, is to create a picture of the famous hat worn by Dr. Seuss’s beloved character, the Cat in the Hat.Red and white rice are used to fill in the stripes.
Another option is to create a picture that personifies the season of spring.The picture can include one or more of the following items characteristic of spring:Flowers, birds, trees, the sun, bees and / or butterflies too!
Below you will find the instructions for “colouring” rice.If you are doing the Dr. Seuss’s hat picture, you will only need red and white rice.If you are creating a spring scene, it is recommended to provide a variety of colours of rice.
Instructions for dyeing rice:
You will need:
·Any white rice (uncooked)
·Rubbing alcohol
·Liquid food colouring
·Mason jars or resealable plastic bags
What to do:
1.In a jar, add 1 cup of rice, 2 tsp of rubbing alcohol and 2 tsp of food colouring.
2.Close the lid on the jar tightly and shake. Watch as the colour of the rice changes.
3.Line a baking sheet with waxed paper and pour the rice onto the pan.
4.Spread out the rice and allow it to dry. It usually takes 12-24 hrs.
5.When it is dry, store each colour in its own mason jar and with the lid closed tightly.
NOTE: The above instructions are for one batch of coloured rice.Repeat the above instructions for every new colour.
Dr. Seuss collage (option #1):
You will need:
·White cardboard (any size will do)
·A pencil
·White school glue
·An old paint brush
·Red and white rice(amount depends on how big your hat is – 2 cups of each colouris usually sufficient)
What to do:
1.In pencil, draw the outline of Dr. Seuss’s hat ( If you need help, you can always search for images of the Cat in the Hat on the internet)
2.Don’t forget to draw in the lines with the pencil too!
3.Spread glue all over the inside of the hat using the paintbrush.
4.Using a teaspoon, slowly pour the rice to fill the inside of the drawing.Start with one colour or rice and then move onto the next colour until the whole hat is filled.A teaspoon is helpful, especially if your drawing has small details that can be hard to fill.
5.Place your collage on a flat surface and allow 4-6 hours to dry. When it is dry, shake off the excess rice over a garbage can.
Springtime collage (option #2):
You will need:
·White cardboard (any size will do)
·A pencil
·White school glue
·An old paintbrush
·A variety of coloured rice (amount depends on how big your hat is – 2 cups of each colouris usually sufficient)
What to do:
1.In pencil, draw a picture that best represents what spring means to you
2.Spread glue all over the inside of the drawing, using the paintbrush.
3.Using a teaspoon, fill the inside of the drawing with different the coloured rice, until there is no more white space showing.A teaspoon is helpful, especially if your drawing has small details that can be hard to fill.
4.Place your collage on a flat surface and allow 4-6 hours to dry. When it is dry, shake off the excess rice over a garbage can.
NOTE:You can mix your food colorings to create specialty colors if you are feeling adventurous.
Puzzling cookie (as promised,this one is edible)
This is a super creative activity, which requires the use of your baking, planning and decorating skills.And let’s not forget…eating skills!!4 stars based on 5 reviews Ths a T
Bottom of Form
You will need:
·Ready-to-bake sugar cookie dough
·A rectangular baking pan (10” x 14”)
·A piece of wax paper on which you can work so you can keep your counters clean
·Non-stick cooking spray
·A rolling pin
·A knife or pizza cutter
·Cake decorating icing tubes ( in a variety of colours)
Instructions:
1.Preheat oven to the temperature indicated on the cookie dough wrapper, spray the baking pan with non-stick cooking spray and press cookie dough into it.
2.On a piece of wax paper, roll out the dough to a 1/4 “thickness and then fit it into the pan.
3.Using a knife, cut the dough into about 12-15 puzzle shaped pieces. Bake according to the time specified on the wrapper.
4.When it is done, carefully remove from the oven. Using the same knife, go over the puzzle pieces previously cut.
5.Allow the cookie to cool.Add your own colourful touch by using the decorating icing tubes to create your own spring picture.This can include flowers, bees and other pictures that represent spring.
6.When you are done and after the icing has set, remove the cookie pieces from the baking pan, and separate all of the pieces.Now try to build your “puzzle picture” with the cookie pieces!
NOTE: Ready-to-bake cookie dough is usually found in the refrigerated section of the supermarket.
It is only fitting to conclude with one of my personal favourite Dr. Seuss poems.
Congratulations!
Today is your day. You’re off to great places!
You’re off and away! You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.
You’re on your own. And you know what you know.
And YOU are the guy who’ll decide where to go.
Shelley Sefton is a chef, recipe developer & creator of “Yummy in my Tummy” - classes for kids thatoffers them the opportunity toexperience exciting adventures in the kitchen – combining education, art,food and most important of all FUN! Contact: (905) 597-0672 or sdsefton@rogers.com.
Valentine’s Day is once a year, and not to be a mood killer, but don’t you think that we should be celebrating those we love everyday (and not just your “significant other”)? Not that I don’t give my kids all of the love and attention they need daily (ok, as a working mother of 3, I’m the first to admit that I live with guilt every minute about not giving them enough), but there’s no day more perfect to do something special as a family than on Valentine’s Day.
Taking a few extra moments to consider the activities we do together and the things we buy for one another will mean the world…to the world. Try one (or more) of the following 15 ideas:
1. Greetings of Love. Make cards for one another from what you have in your home…old magazines, scrap paper, how about that artwork brought home from school that you are not keeping? (seriously, if you have school aged-children, you will know that I’m not an evil mother…there is only so much space we have and so many things that we can classify as precious!). Or, of course, send your love via email.
2. Pack a Loveable Lunch. Whether you’re sending the kids off to school, or planning a picnic in the park, packing your healthy homemade meal in a safe (and irresistibly cute) lunch bag means less waste, and happy, smiling kids.
3. Build a Snowman. What better way to spend time with the family over this loveable holiday than to come together for some good ol’ fashioned team work? I bet you didn’t think a snowman could be local and organic did you?
4. Coco Loco. You can never go wrong with chocolate treats. Well, actually, you sort of can. Make sure to look for organic and fair-trade labels. When labeled “organic” you can be assured that your chocolate hasn’t been sprayed with synthetic ick. When labeled “Fairtrade”, it means that farmers were given a fair price for their cocoa. Here is the absolute best chocolate in the world – www.chocosoltraders.com – I could write an entire article on why it’s the best, but you’ll have to check out their website and try it for yourself.
5. Buy the whole bush! Most cut flowers are grown in South America, Africa and Southeast Asia and can be heavily sprayed with pesticides, fungicides and herbicides (with toxins that are banned in fields in Canada!). And we thought flowers were supposed to signify beauty and purity?! When buying flowers make sure to source local and organic ones, you’d be surprised to find out what’s growing in your own backyard. I love My Luscious Backyard’s organic selection. You can also go out with your family and buy a plant, a sprouting kit, or an indoor herb garden (organic, of course). You can have fun planting them as a family and it can be a reminder of something you did all together. However, if you aren’t blessed with a green thumb (mine is actually black), hire a farmer. They make it easy and fun to pick the freshest, most local and organic veggies and you can plan an entire meal around what’s growing right outside in your very own backyard.
6. Create a holiday cocktail. I’m referring to one the entire family can enjoy.Choose fresh, local, organic and colourful fruits and veggies and create a delicious smoothie or juice to enjoy. We have plenty of great drink ideas in our 2011 Drinking Guide. Get each family member to create their own “signature” drink (and have their own signature reusable glass straw too).
7. Screen something. Choose a delicious (and healthy) snack – here are some of my favourites - and cuddle up under a comfy organic throw to watch a movie as a family. Choose the latest release or go with old family footage.They can be great for laughs and good memories. (Combine this activity with #8 too!)
8. Pop it up. Pop local organic popcorn (our family favourite is http://www.naturesorganics.ca/. If you are curious why you shouldn’t ever eat microwave popcorn, then what you should be screening (see #7 above) is King Corn but maybe not with the kids!).
9. Experience it all. Experience something new or old together. Go to the museum or other attractions. Go mini-golfing or bowling. Get tickets to a concert or play. www.kidsaroundcanada.com is a good place to start looking. If you combine your outing with a meal, choose a restaurant with a local and sustainable menu. You cannot believe how many exist, are affordable and offer favourites like pizza or burgers if your kids are picky eaters…however, make it an opportunity to find a new food to love…something colourful perhaps?!
10. Dress up or dress down. Dress up your table and yourselves or, dress down and get down on the floor. Spread out a blanket and have an indoor picnic and prepare a local family dinner together. I know, this is a stretch for some to imagine, but trying to plan it (and stick to it) could become a fun project.
11. Light it up. While enjoying a special family meal (see #10 above), set a calm mood (what family doesn’t need more of that?) with 100% beeswax candles with cotton wicks. Rest assured knowing you’ll be dining without the black soot and fumes (think diesel exhaust while you eat and drink, ick) from standard paraffin, lead-wicked candles. Keep your indoor air clean, and your family-time moments pure!
12. Read a Good Book.Well I’m bias since I wrote the Alphabet of Avoidance but it’s a fun, inspiring, and perspective changing read that not only identifies what we should be avoiding in order to live healthier lives, but also includes simple (and not overbearing) solutions to immediately replace the “bad” with someone better, or even, nothing at all.As a family, you can read one page a day and make a simple change (or if you’re ambitious, you can read the entire short book in an hour!).
13. Have a pillow fight. As you’re tossing your pillows around (and resting your head on them at night) make sure your pillows are safe and are not made from synthetic materials.Your family could be sleeping on toluene, formaldehyde, and other nasty chems. As Annie Leonard from the Story of Stuff exclaims - there’s got to be a better way to stop your head from catching on fire while you sleep than dousing your pillow in flame retardants”.Although replacing your favourite worked-in pillow may seem challenging, swap it in for one that’s made from organic wool or organic rubber.It’s a better change for your loved ones.
14. Be playful. Play that doesn’t harm the earth, provides fun and games for the whole family, and learning a thing or two , is what family time is all about. Our family loves Anouk’s board games and puzzles.Each one is designed in Toronto with passion, and made with FSC certified paper and veggie based inks.
15. Take another shot. Take tons of digital pictures throughout the day (use as many cameras as your family has – no, not an encouragement to go out and buy more), and make a collage, an online album, a screensaver from it. There is nothing like my family’s smiling faces to brighten a moment.
However you decide to celebrate this day with those you love, make it memorable and get to the heart of the matter. Even when caught up in the hustle, bustle, routines and chaos on every other day, may your days together be full of fun, laughter, kindness and love…for your loved ones and our world.
Lisa Borden, owner of Borden Communications, takes a unique approach to holistically marketing eco-intelligent living and working. Some of her favourite titles (from a long list) include: Catalyst for Change, Enthusiastic Philanthropist, Inspiration Agent, Strategist + Catalyst, Mother of 3 and Wannabe Organic Farmer. You can follow her on twitter @LisaBorden or learn more about her and her business at www.bordencom.com.
Forecast: March Break 2012 at the ROM promises to be muy caliente
Families will get hot, hot, hot, as Maya-inspired activities take over the ROM from March 11 to 18 – all at cool lower pricing!
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) will be a hot destination for families as March Break 2012 says hola! to Maya: Secrets of their Ancient World. From Saturday, March 10 to Sunday, March 18, 2012, visitors will enjoy Maya-inspired programming at the ROM’s new lower admission prices.
The ROM extends its hours to 8:30 pm from Saturday March 10 to Saturday, March 17, and closes at 5:30 pm on Sunday, March 18. Friday nights pricing* is in effect each day of March Break from 4:30 pm until closing, and after 4:00 pm on Sunday, March 18. Visiting during the day at the ROM’s new lower admission prices includes much family programming, while a visit during the Museum’s special extended holiday hours features further discounted admission to enjoy Maya. See chart at end of release for full admission pricing information.
Maya-themed programming
Family programming and activities**, offered daily from 11:00am to 4:00pm, include:
< The Game Show at the End of the World, played three times daily in Currelly Gallery, promises participants and viewers a rollicking time as pyramids are built, brains are teased, and a ball game is played – all in the spirit of the ancient Maya
< Learn how the Maya created beautiful jewellery; then make your own to take home
< One of the most revered creatures of the ancient Maya, the quetzal bird, is yours for the taking (after making it, of course)
< A Maya High Priest will regally interact with visitors. Easy to spot, he’ll be the one with the full body paint!
< The ROM’s numerous accessibility initiatives will allow all family members to explore through tactile graphics, detailed descriptions, accessible puzzles, and other activities, informing visitors of all ages about ancient civilizations
< Presentations in the Earth Rangers Studio in Life in Crisis: Schad Gallery of Biodiversity touches on the themes of agriculture and biodiversity, dynamically linking them to Maya society
Other Programming
< Wild cats, hawks, lemurs, and more entertain as Bring Back the Wild is presented by Earth Rangers in the Signy and Cléophée Eaton Theatre. The 20-minute live animal show can be seen daily at 11:30 am, 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm
< Permanent galleries will play host to a wide variety of scavenger hunts and guessing games
< Travel back to the 15th century and participate in a Mediaeval Fair. Meet an archer, dance mediaeval-style, interact with live animals, and much more
< Visitors can test their skills to determine if they have what it takes to be a ROM conservator
< Ever walked on the moon? You can in the Teck Suite of Galleries: Earth Treasures. You can even take home a certificate proving it!
< The newly launched Burgess Shale website will be available for viewing, with interpreters from Yoho National Park on hand to answer visitors’ questions
With so much going on at the ROM, appetites are sure to present themselves. Families are invited to dine like the Maya in the ROM’s casual family restaurant, Food Studio Café. Rotated daily, offerings include quesadillas, burritos, chilli, chorizo sausage, and corn pizza. With energies renewed, a visit to the ROM Museum Store or the Maya exhibition boutique is in order with plenty of inspired wares available for purchase.
About Maya: Secrets of their Ancient World
The exhibition is an international collaboration between the ROM, Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), and the Canadian Museum of Civilization (CMC). Nearly 250 artifacts have been assembled, including large sculptures, ceramics, masks, and jewellery, to illuminate the relationships between the Maya ruling class and the balance of its society. The objects also reveal numerous aspects of Maya life, which, until the end of the 19th century, had been shrouded in mystery. Maya city states, palace life, and rituals and beliefs, including a timely look at what they thought would occur in the year 2012, are all examined in the exhibition. Most of the showcased objects have never before been seen in Canada, and many, some only recently excavated, are recognized as among the most significant archaeological finds of the Maya civilization. The exhibition is on display at the ROM until April 9, 2012.
Lower Pricing in Effect
All March Break activities are included with ROM admission. Admission is as follows:
GENERAL ADMISSION MAYA + GENERAL ADMISSION
Adult $15 (previously $24) $25 (previously $31)
Senior (65+ years) $13.50 (previously $21) $22.50 (previously $28)
Student (15 - 25 years, with student ID) $13.50 (previously $21) $22.50 (previously $28)
Child (4 - 14 years) $12 (previously $16) $17 (previously $19.50)
Infant (3 years & under) Free
Members Free
*ROM Friday Nights Pricing (Best Value): GENERAL ADMISSION
Adult $9 (previously $12) Additional surcharge applies to see Maya: Secrets of their Ancient World
Senior $8 (previously $10.50)
Student $8 (previously $10.50)
Child $6 (previously $8)
ROM Friday Nights presented by Sun Life Financial, take place from 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm.
**programming is accurate at time of writing. Check www.rom.on.ca closer to March Break to ensure status of activities.
January (Latin word for door) is named after Janus, the Roman god of beginnings and doorways.It is the start to a fresh year and a time in which many people make resolutions to change.Resolutions like eating healthier, starting to exercise or exercising more often, spending more time outdoors or spending more quality time with family and friends.
Interestingly, I discovered that January 19th is Popcorn day! Hooray! Popcorn is one of my favourite foods.
Here are some fun ways to get some exercise, be creative, spend some quality time with your friends and family, and therefore fulfill your New Year resolutions, all while enjoying some popcorn!
Basic popped corn
NOTE: Adult assistance required!
Ingredients:
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups un-popped popcorn
¼ - ½ cup melted butter (optional)
Salt to taste
Directions;
1.Heat oil in a large saucepan or soup pot over medium-high heat.
2.Add popcorn and place the lid on the pan. Shake to coat kernels with oil.
3.When the corn starts to pop, shake the pan gently and evenly until the popping stops.
4.As soon as the popping stops, remove the pan from heat and pour popped corn into a large bowl.
5.Optional:Drizzle the melted butter and/or a sprinkling of salt over the corn and give it a good shake before serving.
Makes 12 servings
Popcorn relay race - Two great versions for a popular game
1.Place two large empty bowls at one end of a room, garden or field.
2.Divide the kids or family into two teams at the other end of the room and ensure each participant has a full cup of popcorn.
3.A whistle is blown to start the game.Each participant runs to their team’s bowl with a full cup of popcorn, empties it into the bowl and returns as fast as they can to their team.The team that completes the relay race first, wins.
A second version of the same game….
1.Each participant has two turns to run and empty their cup of popcorn into their teams bowl.
2.This time, they have to be very careful not to spill any popcorn while they are running.
3.After everybody has had two turns, look at the bowls and see which has more popcorn.
4.The team with the bowl that is fuller wins because they spilled less popcorn.
Popcorn Maracas
Maracas are wonderful instruments, fun to make and event more fun to play.Playing them is a great way to expend some energy, especially when you are cooped up inside during the cold winter months!
You will need:
A white paper plate
Crayons, paint or markers
A stapler
½ cup popcorn kernels
Music
What to do:
1.Take a white paper plate and colour the back of it with crayons, paint or markers.
2.Fold the plate in half, and staple it part of the way around (to create a half moon shape), leaving an opening to insert the popcorn kernels.
3.Pour the popcorn kernels into the paper plate through the opening and staple until it is sealed.
Now put on some fun and energizing music and shake your maracas!
Popcorn Snowmen
I found this super recipe on http://www.candy.about.com and just had to try it out with my kids. It was such a fun activityfor all ages and a delicious one too!
NOTE:Adult assistance required!
Ingredients:
7 cups popped popcorn
1 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup light corn syrup
1/3 cup hot water
Raisins, gumdrops, or other candy to decorate
Two pretzel sticks, to decorate
Ribbon, to decorate
Directions
1.Place three strips of waxed paper on a table or kitchen counter, and spray them with nonstick cooking spray. Place the popped popcorn in a large bowl and set aside.
2.In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium-high and heat. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves, then insert a candy thermometer. Cook the candy until it reaches 240 degrees.
3.Pour the sugar syrup over the popcorn in the bowl and stir gently until the popcorn is evenly coated.
4.Spoon three mounds of popcorn onto the three strips of waxed paper. You want to make the mounds in three different sizes to represent the small head, medium torso, and large body of the snowman.
5.Allow the popcorn to cool for 7-8 minutes. When it is cool enough to touch, but still warm, spray your hands with nonstick cooking spray, and form the mounds into balls, stacking them on top of one another in a snowman shape. Be sure to press the balls firmly so that they don’t fall apart.
6.Press the raisins and any other candy into the snowman to form eyes, a nose, a mouth, and buttons. Insert a pretzel stick into each side of the middle popcorn ball for the snowman’s arms.
This recipe makes one large snowman, or you can make multiple smaller snowmen.
Take some popcorn kernels and put them in a pot,
Add the oil and heat it, hear it start to pop, pop, pop.
When it is all puffy and white, then it is done,
Everyone knows popping corn is fun!
Shelley Sefton is a chef, recipe developer & creator of “Yummy in my Tummy” - classes for kids that offers them the opportunity to experience exciting adventures in the kitchen – combining education, art, food and most important of all FUN! Contact: (905) 597-0672 or sdsefton@rogers.com.
Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years Of Magic Rolls Back Prices for
Best Holiday Deal in Town!
TORONTO, ON — Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah, Zip-a-Dee-Day, My Oh MyWhat a Wonderful Day! On December 14th, Disney On Ice fans in Toronto may be singing this song when they take advantage of a special, once-in-a-blue moon, better than Groupon opportunity, to purchase tickets for only $1.00.
This Holiday Season, Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic glides into Rogers Centre for 15 performances from December 23-January 1/12.
Tickets for this one-time-only, Zip-A-Dee-Deal will be available starting at 11 am on Wednesday, December 14th at Rogers Centre Box Office, located at Gate 9, and are available while supplies last (100 tickets per performance will be available).
This magical moment in entertainment history combines Disney’s unforgettable stories and enthralling characters that have entertained families the world over. The captivating production features the largest cast ever of lovable Disney stars on ice – Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Pinocchio, Jiminy Cricket, Stitch, Nemo and the Incredibles – and exciting moments from Disney’s Mulan and The Lion King.
To keep warm while in line, ticket buyers will be treated to hot chocolate and entertained by the festive sounds of the Salvation Army Band. People will be invited to support the Salvation Army’s annual Christmas campaign.
PLEASE NOTE: Customers may not begin forming a line until 9:30 am on Wednesday, December 14th. Rogers Centre Box Office will open at 11 am. There is a limit of (six)6 tickets per person for your chosen show. Offer is not valid on multiple shows, VIP and rinkside seats.
Once the Zip-A-Dee-Deal tickets are sold out, fans will be able to purchase tickets at a special one-day only $5.00 off discount rate (excluding VIP and rinkside seats).
Holiday time is approaching, and we have some fabulous gift ideas and savings to make your preparations easier. Avoid the lines and parking headaches … browse online and shop from the comfort of your computer for everyone on your list.
Eko Bear Sponsored Listing Shop for top eco-friendly toys of 2011 and more all made with your children and the environment in mind! We offer free local pick-up (Kanata, ON) and low flat rate shipping within Canada. Save 10% with discount code KidsCan until Dec 31/11.
Petite Posh Sponsored Listing Spoiling even the smallest member of your family couldn’t get easier when shopping at petiteposh.com. Shop for personalized gifts, big kid toys and everyday essentials Great gifts, warms smiles and big hug! Use coupon code kids at check out for 15% off your entire order (over $30 & valid until Dec 15/11) and don’t forget, free shipping on orders over $99.
Applause! Toy Store Sponsored Listing Applause! Toy Store is a magical place filled with toys, games, puzzles and crafts for kids of all ages. Find award winning toys like the Spooner Boards pictured here, Perplexus and Green Toys. You’ll also find a full range of Play & Hape Wooden Toys, the latest baby gear, and lots fun-filled stocking stuffers! Coupon Code KIDSCANADA for 15% off until Dec 31, 2011
Exceptional Coffee Sponsored Listing: Jump start your Christmas morning this year with better tasting coffee! Planetary Design French Presses leave in the tasty aromatic essential oils unlike your average filtered coffee machine. Pick from a variety of sizes, styles and colours of Planetary Design at the Polka Dot Pond Shop! Offer: Save 15% on all products with code KACHGG15. Expiry: December 31st, 2011
Citrus Silver Sponsored Listing: Citrus Silver designs meaningful jewellery that is stamped with names, words or dates. All of our stamped pieces are sterling silver and made in Canada. Affordable, personal, and beautiful. Order online and we will ship within 1 week.
Name Your Tune Personalized CDs Sponsored Listing Celebrate the special little ones in your life this holiday season with a music collection that celebrates them! Name Your Tune Personalized CDs feature your child’s name throughout their favourite songs including Old MacDonald, If You’re Happy and You Know It and 5 Little Monkeys. Available in 2 Volumes. Coupon Code: KidsAround for $5 off your order of Name Your Tune CDs.
The Clay Room Sponsored Listing Paint a handmade gift while spending quality time with family or friends. Put children’s prints on a piece for a treasured keepsake. WALK-IN CUSTOMERS are welcome. Gift certificates available. Private parties for both adults and kids to celebrate any occasion. Over 300+ items to paint. 279 Danforth Avenue, Toronto.
“Adopt” an Animal from Toronto Zoo Sponsored Listing “Adopt” an animal from Toronto Zoo and give a unique gift. How about a bear for Baby or a penguin for Papa? “Adoption” packages begin at just $25. Our Holiday Special packages feature “Waddles” the plush penguin and a DVD that takes you behind-the-scenes where you’ll meet zoo keepers and amazing animals. Each purchase helps with conservation efforts at Toronto Zoo.
The Second City ’s Miracle on Mercer St. Sponsored Listing The Second City’s Miracle on Mercer St.. Adorable puppets and their funny human friends tell a delightful musical tale that The Toronto Star calls “the best holiday present of all”. Matinee performances until Jan 1. Ages 4+. Tickets $12.
Second City Winter Camps & Intensives Sponsored Listing: Comedy comes in many different packages! Campers learn how to define their own voice and point of view through the exploration of improvisation. Full day camps for grades 5-8, half day intensives for grades 9-12! December 27 -30 and January 2-6.
March Break Special - Playdium Playcard packed with 220 credits for $30.00 + HST. That’s an extra $5 of credits FREE! Available March 9 - 17th, 2013 only. The Ultimate March Break Destination! Playdium Mississauga, 99 Rathburn Road West, Mississauga.
Lace up for some sneaker fun during March Break at the Bata Shoe Museum! Try on cool sneakers, decorate a sneaker-shaped cookie, place your footprint on our walk of fame, make a sneaker friendship pin, tie dye some shoelaces, win prizes and much more! 
Jeepers! SCOOBY-DOO and the gang have been called in to solve a mystery in Toronto. A trouble-making ghost is haunting the theatre and SHAGGY, FRED, DAPHNE, VELMA and SCOOBY-DOO are on their way in the MYSTERY MACHINE to solve it!
An experience kids love. A family parents trust. We are one of Canada’s finest international camps for youth ages 6 -17. Join us at Wabikon for a summer you’ll never forget! Contact us today for a free DVD package and references in your area.
Disney On Ice presents Rockin’ Ever After, an all-new live production coming to Toronto from March 13-17 at the Rogers Centre. Get ready to rock out with some of the most magical idols across the kingdom! Save up to $15 and eliminate extra fees and taxes when you purchase tickets from AV Communications. Use promo code AV4100 to get 4 tickets for $100 ($42 value per ticket) only on Ticketmaster.ca.
Adventure Valley welcomes children from JK through Grade 6 for our most dynamic School Holiday camp ever! Kinder kids will enjoy a wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities, special guests, and theme days! Our older campers will design their own schedule from an incredible list of choices. Lunch and snack included, bussing available to most areas of the GTA.
Get creative with your children this March or Passover Break, and inspire some special memories by bringing the exciting activities in Creative IQ: Giving Young Learners the Creative Edge in a Competitive World to life together. Activities relate to fitness, cooking, art, drama, music, science and more. Limited time FREE SHIPPING OFFER.
WRITTEN BY
Citrus Silver
The Second City’s Miracle on Mercer St.
