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Disciplining Other People's Kids - SavvyMom

Disciplining Other People’s Kids: Should I Mind My Business?

I’m pretty hands off when it comes to my kids’ conflicts.

Sure, I coach them through scuffles and break things up when it gets too intense, but for the most part, I’m a fan of letting my sons work things out on their own. In our house, it’s not unusual to hear royal rumbles erupting or to walk in on a wrestling match, and unless someone’s yelling “uncle” I tend to keep my nose out of it.

Today after school was no exception; my son and I enjoying some time at the park before heading home, when some “big kids” started wrestling on the ground beside us.

They were laughing and seemed evenly matched, so I continued on, pushing my little guy on the swing without giving it a second thought.

Except soon enough, the laughter turned to tears and one of the kids wrestling didn’t seem to be having fun anymore.

I paused, wanting to give the boys the benefit of the doubt. Waiting to see how they were going to handle things and if everything was copacetic.

And then one of them hauled off and starting repeatedly kicking the other in the gut.

I froze for a split second, not really believing what I was seeing, but not before making use of my most serious, don’t you even think of messing with my kid voice and looked him straight in the eye — LEAVE. HIM. ALONE.

He just looked at me, stunned.

Stuttering and stammering, before sheepishly shrugging his shoulders. “He’s my brother,” he managed to get out, eyes drifting down to his sibling, whose eyes were glued to mine, wondering what I was going to do next.

I. Don’t. Care. Get. Away. From. Him.

I spoke slowly and clearly, so there was no mistaking that I wasn’t going to stand by and to let him pound the snot out of his brother on my watch.

They finally got up, shaking the wood chips from their clothes as they ran along, probably not giving a second thought to the crazy mom who spoke sternly to them for not playing nice.

Relieved to return to our afternoon fun, I was suddenly preoccupied, wondering whether the fighting siblings’ parents had been watching me disciplining other people’s kids without a thought.

If I had stuck my nose where it didn’t belong.

If I was going to be on the receiving end of an angry parent, annoyed with me for putting their kid on blast.

But then just as quickly as my worries began, I realized I didn’t care.

And that even if they were angry, it still wouldn’t be enough to change my decision.

Because while it’s sometimes easy to butt out, coaching ourselves out of potential conflict with other parents with thoughts of “to each their own,” “it’s none of my business,” and “it’s not my place,” becoming complacent and avoiding taking action when action is needed is not what our kids deserve.

So yes, I butted my nose in someone else’s business. I went about disciplining other people’s kids without a second thought.

And I’d gladly do it again tomorrow.

New BBQ Gadgets & Grill Accessories - SavvyMom

New BBQ Gadgets and Grill Accessories for Summer

It’s official—barbeque season has started and we know for some it never ends. The warm weather serves up a summer of picnics and patio bars, porch gazebos, and the smell of meat grilled over charcoal flames. But it’s not quite time to sit back and gently rock your glass of mostly melting ice. Preparations have to be made for the slew of dinner invitations and one-up- man-ships that this season no doubt brings.  So here’s a list of new bbq gadgets and grill accessories you need to win for your outdoor kitchen this year.

New BBQ Gadgets & Grill Accessories for Summer

6-in-1 New BBQ Gadgets - SavvyMom

6-in-1 Multigrill Tool

This is like the Swiss army knife of grilling tools — it even has the corkscrew! With a grilling fork, spatula, knife, tongs, bottle opener, and the corkscrew that fold in together, it’s pretty compact when stored, relatively sturdy when assembled, and big enough to actually be useful. The food-grade stainless steel is easy to clean and disassembly and reassembly are easy to do. Perfect for camping or when you have limited storage storage space for grill accessories.

Available at Amazon

Burger Stomper 2-in-1 - SavvyMom

Burger Stomper 2-in-1

Make either 60z burger patties or 2oz sliders in mere seconds. It’s easy, just press the Stomper onto a ball of meat and when you lift, you’ll have a perfect burger. A second plate holds your newly formed patty down so it will never stick inside the Stomper’s base. All your burgers will be the exact same width around so they’ll barbeque evenly. This Stomper is guaranteed non-stick, is dishwasher-safe, and easy to unscrew so you can store it in any cupboard.

Available Online

Fire Sense Notebook Grill - SavvyMom

Fire Sense Notebook Charcoal Grill

This charcoal grill is perfect for urban living, tailgating, and park picnics. It folds from 13 inches to one in just two seconds, becoming its own carrying case for you to take anywhere. The Notebook Grill is resilient, made from high heat resistant painted steel, which is good for travelling, camping, and beach parties. It’s easy to store and clean—just remove the grilling surface and run it through the dishwasher, then set it inside its case for next time.

Available at Amazon

BBQ Gadgets Himalayan Salt Plank - SavvyMom

Himalayan Salt Plank

This barbeque plank is made from a slab of pink mineral-rock salt deposits found in the Himalayas. It naturally flavours food as you prepare and serve. The plate evenly retains both hot and cold temperatures, so you can cook meat and seafood on the grill or serve chilled fruits, vegetables and cheeses from the fridge. The salt plate is naturally anti-micro bacterial and easy to clean, but will eventually shrink. When the plate develops cracks it can no longer be used, but if it’s well taken care of, it should last a long time, just like it’s flavour.

Available at Williams Sonoma

iGrill Mini Smart Grilling Thermometer

Forget watching your meat cook. The iGrill is a pocket-sized Bluetooth thermometer and meat probe that connects with any smartphone or device via bluetooth. You can set customized alarms that will go off once your meat reaches a certain temperature. That way, you keep cool inside instead of standing in front of a hot burner, and you’ll never overcook a steak again.

Available at Amazon

Grill Accessories Flexible Skewers - SavvyMom

Fire Wire Flexible Skewers

With flexible skewers you can marinade your food in a plastic bowl or ziploc baggie instead of using a long dish that refuses to fit in the fridge. These stainless steel skewers hold twice as much food and the regular wooden variety, and utilize grill space better because they don’t have to lie straight. They are dishwasher safe, affordable, and environmentally friendly, being reused instead of thrown out.

Available on Amazon

BBQ Gadgets Grilling Mat - SavvyMom

Grilling Mat

This mat rolls out on top of your barbeque for a non-stick, no mess grilling experience. Now you can crack an egg and pour pancake batter to make breakfast on the patio. Don’t worry about using tin foil for your vegetables or flakey fish because now nothing can fall through the grates. A grilling mat has all the benefits of a griddle while it retains the barbeque experience: great taste and perfect grill lines. Plus it’s easy to clean and there’s no more scraping. Just take the mat inside and wipe it down with a wet cloth.

Available at Canadian Tire

Outdoor Grill Popcorn Maker - SavvyMom

Outdoor Grill Popcorn Popper

Make popcorn on the barbeque instead of the stove, where it flies all over the kitchen. This way you can pop it outside without all the trouble of building a campfire. The telescopic handle keeps you away from the heat source and it makes up to Makes 4 liters of popcorn so there will be plenty for your BBQ or campfire guests.

Available at Canadian Tire

Flameless Grill Smoker - SavvyMom

Flameless grill smoker

Eight small vents allow enough oxygen into the smoker to cause the wood chips inside to smolder, but not enough for them to ignite. You can place the Smoker on top of your grill, or if you need the space right on your hot coals. The smoldering chips will generate smoke inside of your closed barbeque and infuse your meat with a delicious smokey flavour. With a 13 inch handle you can easily remove the smoker when you’re finished cooking and your guests will never know how you did it.

Available Online

BBQ Gadgets Steam Cleaning Grill Brush - SavvyMom

Grand Grill Daddy

The last thing you want to do after barbequing is deal with a huge clean up. Most brushes require a lot of elbow grease and burn up easily, so you’ll find you replace them at least once a year. Not this one. Fill the aluminum handle with water and it will generate steam to burn away food and grease residue.  You won’t have to scrape hard to get your grill clean and the steam sterilizes as you go.

Available at Williams Sonoma

30+ Classic, Fun Loot Bag Ideas

Birthday parties are back, folks. And the one birthday party trend I can get behind is simplified loot bags.

More and more my kids are come home with one item instead of a plastic baggie full of tiny toys and candy.

Thank you birthday party Gods and parents everywhere!

To be clear, kids love both options but for me, one more substantial item is better than a bunch of little things my kid will play with for 10 seconds and leave around for me to step on and throw away. And when we’re hosting the party, I feel like I’m getting more bang for my buck by giving away one item our guests will actually use.

Our favourite party favours & loot bags for kids:

loot bag ideas

Bath Bombs

These bath bombs from Lush are fun, colourful, chemical-free, and great for any kid who needs a little incentive to get in the tub!

what to put in party bags

Hand Sanitizers and PocketBac Holders

We still need hand sanitizer, people. Probably now more than ever. Kids love the scents and fun holders, like this adorable turtle. Available online or at your nearest Bath & Body Works.

 

Slime

So many great options for slime. We love this one from Indigo.

Bubbles

Bubbles

You just can’t go wrong with bubbles. If you want to get the kids outside for part of the party, introduce bubbles to the mix. There are great options available for great prices at Canadian Tire.

Name Labels

We love these personalized labels from Mabel’s Labels because they’re unique, useful, and easy to add onto any loot bag. Also great for summer camp season!

Sleep Masks

Perfect for sleepover parties, these cute sleep masks help ensure the littles slumber as long as possible. Win-win! Available at Claire’s stores.

Ty Beanie Boos

Beanie Boos never seem to go out of style and they come in a variety of sizes and styles – from $4 clip-ons to $7 sequin pouches to $30 large plush. The small plush, like the one pictured above, are about $7. Mastermind Toys and Well.ca have great selections.

Magnifying Bug Viewer

If you didn’t hunt and capture bugs did summer really happen? These inexpensive jars from Amazon.ca are great for little explorers. Hand them out with Bulk Barn bug gummies or an inexpensive flashlight for extra fun!

Binoculars

I spy with my little eye kids who aren’t using iPads! Keep the outdoor fun going with a pair of rubber, shock-proof, 4x magnification glasses for less than $6 per pair at Amazon.ca.

Glow in the Dark Stars

Kids can transform their rooms into the starry night sky with this set of 16 adhesive-backed stars that adhere to walls and ceilings. Only $5.59/set at Well.ca.

Some ideas for loot bags by party theme or activity:

Pool party:

Goggles, towels, floaties or squirt guns.

Animal-theme party:

Beanie Boos or Schleich figurines set up in a box with a “For Adoption” sign.

Art party:

Paint, paint brushes, palettes and aprons.

Princess Party:

Crowns, tiaras, magic wands and tutus.

Movie party:

Microwave popcorn and a box of candy in a plastic bowl.

Slumber party:

A fun pair of slippers or a blanket, plus a small bottle of water.

In Spring and Summer

Any outdoor toys like sidewalk chalk, bubbles, frisbees, skipping ropes, sunglasses, buckets with shovels and hula hoops.

In Fall and Winter

Mugs with individual servings of hot chocolate and marshmallows or mittens with hand warmers tucked inside.

Where to Find Them

If you’re looking for a bunch of small items, you can usually find everything you need in one place. Check out:

  • The Bulk Barn  — great for Pez, chocolates, gumballs, gummies and other edible treats
  • Dollarama — play-doh, stationary, stickers, card games, glow-in-the-dark bracelets, and arts and crafts supplies
  • Party City — small toys, keychains, pins, candy and silly string
  • Indigo — small toys and novelty items
  • Wal Mart — treat sized chocolate bars, Crayola products
  • Michael’s — stationary, arts and crafts supplies, activity books
  • Mastermind Toys — small toys, pencils and erasers, rubber balls and jewellery

And like most gifts, a little effort on the packaging goes a long way. Colourful ribbons and bags, fun containers and personalized name tags make everything look extra special.

Happy gifting!

 

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Best Booze Pairings for Kids Snacks - SavvyMom

Perfect Booze Pairings for Kids’ Snacks

Parents everywhere are struggle with kids’ snacks. Why do kids need so many snacks? Should it be healthy food only? Can we sacrifice healthy for quick and easy? Will it ruin their dinner? Is 4:00 too early for Merlot? Okay, the last one was mine.

I recently asked a group of friends about their go-to snacks and the overwhelming majority of us want something that’s quick, easy and, ideally, can be made themselves. So here are some of our favourite ideas for kids snacks. And since kids rarely finish their lovingly-prepared snacks, who eats the scraps? Well, we know who. So here are the best alcoholic drinks to pair with them…

Best Booze Pairings for Kids Snacks

how to make a serve yourself Caesar cocktail bar

Cut-up veggies

This one’s a no-brainer. Whether it’s cucumbers, carrots, snap peas, cherry tomatoes, or green beans, very little prep is required, and most kids will be able to get them out of the fridge themselves. The best part? It takes the pressure off of forcing kids to eat their veggies at dinner, especially if yours, like mine, prefer crunchy to cooked. Hummus, ranch dressing, and guacamole can help veggie-phobic kids get a little more excited about a plate of greens.

Pairs well with: Spicy bloody Caesar

Fruit

I had almost given up on sending fruit to school for lunch because I couldn’t seem to find a way to keep it cold, un-squished, and appetizing. But now, between breakfast smoothies and cut-up fruit after school, my kids seem to be getting enough. (I’d know if they had scurvy, right?) Cherries, strawberries, sliced peaches, pineapple … a fruit plate is a great, colourful snack that can be prepared well in advance so they just have to open fridge and insert arm.

Pairs well with: Sangria

Cheese and Crackers

I plan to spend my retirement researching, procuring, and eating cheese so it’s important that my kids learn to appreciate it. Sliced, cubed, string, or shredded, cheese is right up there with fruits and veggies in terms of simplicity, and most kids love it. Serve it with crackers, kielbasa, fruit, or veggies. Older kids can melt it in the microwave over just about anything.

Pairs well with: Crisp, cold Sauvignon Blanc or a Rosé Wine Slushie

Strawberry Mojito

Smoothies

Depending on how comfortable you are letting your kids operate rotating blades in close proximity to their siblings, smoothies may be a great snack option. Frozen fruit, Greek yogurt, coconut water, almond milk, spinach, kale, chia, and ground flax are staple ingredients. Let kids experiment with different combinations then simplify prep by bagging the solid ingredients ahead of time so they can dump them in the blender with their liquid of choice and some ice.

Pairs well with: Strawberry Mojito

Smashed Avocado with Tostitos

A friend of mine has a rule: “No chips without something green on them.” Smashed avocado – with or without a dash of sea salt and lemon – is great on chips, crackers, veggies, toast, and much more. If your kids want a salty, not-so-healthy treat like nacho chips, this is a good compromise.

Pairs well with: Blackberry Cilantro Margarita

Rice Cakes Topped with Peanut Butter and Banana

I love toast, but if you don’t want your little ones using the toaster, or if you just want a twist on a classic snack, I like to tell the kids to slather a rice cake with some pb and slice some fruit on top for good measure. Bananas are our favourite, but it also takes great with apple, blueberries and strawberries.

Pairs well with: Pear Mojito

No-Bake Energy Bites

Typically made from peanut butter, oats, coconut, chocolate chips, chia and flaxseed, honey or maple syrup, these are favourites in my house. I’ve been on an anti-added sugar kick for a while so I switched to brown rice syrup and sugar-free peanut butter and no one noticed. I love these because when they’re craving something sweet, they’re much better than a store-bought granola bar, cookie or muffin. Here’s our favourite recipe.

Pairs well with: Baileys and coffee

What did I miss? Share your favourite snacks with us!

Helping Kids Adjust to a New Neighbourhood - SavvyMom

Helping Your Child Adjust to a New Neighbourhood

There’s no doubt that an ample amount of mom-guilt can come creeping up when you make the decision to uproot your family and move to a new neighbourhood. Moving is hard enough for an adult, but to a child it can make them feel like their entire worlds have been completely flipped upside down. The reality of having to go to a new school, in a new town, while having to make new friends is absolutely overwhelming to the average child.

If you aren’t sure where to begin, we’ve got your back! We’ve gathered some tips to help make settling your children into your new neighbourhood a lot easier. We know that the sooner your child feels at home, the sooner you will feel at home too.

Helping Your Child Adjust to a New Neighbourhood

Get your kid’s space in order

When you first move in, the boxes will be piled high and it will take a while to get your home looking like an interior design catalogue. Although there is nothing you can do about this, you can focus on getting your child’s personal space looking picture perfect first. Paint their bedroom in their favourite colour and make room one of the first to be unpacked and organized. This will provide a safe, familiar, and comfortable space for them to go to while the rest of the home may look chaotic for a while. If there’s room, set up a play area in the living room or basement as well. The goal is to give them places to have fun or retreat to, places that they will feel belong to them.

Head outdoors

Set up any play structures or outdoor toys you have in the backyard and play together. Go to a local garden centre and pick up some new plants and plant them together in your garden. Stroll around your new neighbourhood and point out different places to your child. Visit the park, wave at your new neighbours, hike the trails, sit by the lake, and get familiar with your new surroundings.

Shop local

Bring your family to visit the different shops in your neighbourhood. Get essentials at the local grocery store and pharmacy, try pastries at the bakery, pick up a new outfit at a clothing store, grab something small for your child at the dollar store or toy store, celebrate moving into your new home and other upcoming celebrations by ordering out from local restaurants in town.

Connect with other families

Many areas have social media pages or groups created by community members dedicated to residents of the town. Here you will find important information and local issues, you will also discover local events and have a chance to meet your neighbours. Sign up for these pages and introduce your family. Consider meeting another family you connect with for a play date at a public place like the playground.

Visit your local library

The library is the perfect place to go to have some fun! Get your child a new library card and explore the bookshelves together. They will be able to borrow books, tablets, video games, board games, and more. Many libraries also host free events and activities for children.

Visit other public amenities

Bring your child to experience the community centres, museums, art galleries, indoor playgrounds, play groups, theatres, and more! There’s always something to do in a new town.

Sign your child up for an activity

Check out what sports and activities are offered in your new town and consider signing your kid up for one of them. Look at sports like: swimming, soccer, dance, gymnastics, baseball, karate, and basketball. There are also non-sport options to research like: cooking, music, and art classes. They will offer your child a place to meet other children their own age, a place to practice social skills like cooperation, as well as somewhere to learn something fun.

Invite over familiar faces

Your child may be missing their family and old friends that used to be close by. Have a play date with their buddies and have your child proudly show them around their new neighbourhood. Invite over any family members that are important to your child regularly, having them around will make them feel safe and protected. Let your child offer the tours of your new home. Seeing familiar faces will show your child that even though you have moved to a new neighbourhood it does not mean that they will lose all of the important people in their lives.

Give back

Teach your little one that giving back to your new community is just as important as experiencing all it has to offer you. Once you’re done unpacking think about donating any items that will not work in your new home to a local charitable organization.

Great Spots for Family Brunch in Vancouver - SavvyMom

The Best Spots for Family Brunch in Vancouver

Nothing beats starting off a beautiful sunny Saturday morning with a leisurely family brunch … well, rain or shine – nothing beats going for brunch on the weekend. And fortunately for us, there’s are lots of great spots for family brunch in Vancouver serving up delicious dishes – classic or creative, sweet or savoury, you won’t be disappointed. Check out this list of family-friendly brunch spots in the Lower Mainland.

Great Spots for Family Brunch in Vancouver

BLVD Bistro

A favourite of the North Shore, BLVD Bistro offers sweet and savoury brunch fare that is sure to satisfy. The quaint restaurant is located within Queensbury Village, next to S’wich Café (grab a coffee there while waiting for your table). While there’s no kids’ menu, there’s lots of delectable dishes to choose from – like, macadamia nut banana pancakes – and it may be worth asking for a simple modification. BLVD also offers a selection of plant-based options.

Cora

If you need a spot for family brunch in Vancouver that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters, Cora is the place to go. With an expansive menu specializing in breakfast and lunch dishes – crepes, waffles, pancakes – oh my! – there’s sure to be something for everyone. The kids’ menu is also fairly solid, offering a wide selection of breakfast favourites. The Canadian-owned chain of casual restaurants has several locations throughout the Lower Mainland.

Jam Café

Jam Café is an all-day breakfast and lunch café known for serving up yummy comfort food inspired by the south. From fried chicken and waffles to cinnamon bun pancakes to house-made cornbread, their dishes are deliciously decadent. Jam Café also offers a kids’ menu – there’s even a brioche French toast with Nutella and sliced banana! Check out their locations in Downtown Vancouver and Kitsilano, but be mindful that they don’t take reservations so be prepared to wait.

OEB

Check out OEB if you’re looking for an elevated experience for family brunch in Vancouver. The farm-to-table chain specializes in hearty, delicious breakfast dishes featuring seasonal, fresh ingredients. While the restaurant is kid-friendly, seating can sometimes be tight and you may be facing long wait times – hack: be sure to join the online waitlist in advance. Started in Calgary, there are now OEB locations across Canada and the US, with several throughout the Lower Mainland.

White Spot

Two words: Pirate Pak. White Spot is beloved by many Vancouverites and the tradition of enjoying one of their tasty Pirate Paks runs deep. It’s also the perfect place to meet for a family-friendly brunch with multiple locations throughout the Lower Mainland. The breakfast menu is available until 3 p.m. and features classic dishes like Nat's Hearty Breakfast and Cheesesteak Hash. There’s even a breakfast Pirate Pak edition (FYI, pancakes are only served until 10 a.m.)

Sophie’s Cosmic Café

There’s nothing quite like Sophie’s Cosmic Café in Kitsilano. The moment you walk through the door, you’re instantly transported to a world of kitsch, collectibles and cool vibes. Vintage toys and collectibles feature prominently on the walls of the retro diner, giving kids oodles and oodles of items to keep their attention (perfect for a game of eye spy!). With a kids’ menu and classic breakfast dishes, you really can’t go wrong with this pick!

Wooden Spoon

The Wooden Spoon is worth taking a drive out to White Rock. The bistro has become a beloved spot to enjoy a family-friendly brunch with classic dishes featuring a creative twist. It doesn’t get much better than a Tiramisu French toast or a pulled pork hash – plus, there’s a kids’ menu featuring a solid selection of mini dishes. Bonus points for the kids’ play area at the back of the restaurant – perfect for mitigating the chorus of ‘I’m bored’ while waiting for food to arrive.

Yolks

With a name like Yolks, you know they’ve got big stakes in the breakfast game. And for good reason – Yolks has become an uber popular brunch spot known for its impressive Eggs Benedict menu (no less than nine options!). Their kids’ menu includes waffles, French toast, oatmeal and …you guessed it: eggs! Yolks has two locations in Vancouver with a third set to open in the West End soon, and serves brunch seven days a week.

Best Family Brunch Spots in Ottawa

The Best Spots for Family Brunch in Ottawa

Brunch may look a little different these days with kids in tow but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a great morning out with hot coffee and a delicious brunch. There are great family brunch spots in Ottawa that not only will please the kids but the grown ups too!

Best Spots for Family Brunch in Ottawa

Zaks Diner

Zaks Diner has multiple locations throughout Ottawa with many different brunch options that will always hit the spot! You will definitely want to add a milk shake to your order (tip: 1 milk shake will feed multiple kids!) Choose from Lox & Cream Cheese, Salmon, Eggs Benedict, or a classic Canadian breakfast with bacon, sausage, and add on a thick slice of French toast. Zaks Diner also serves breakfast all day long so make brunch a time that works for you 😉 Zaks Diner is a great spot for family brunch in Ottawa.

Chateau Montebello

Make it a day trip and head to Montebello, just 45 minutes outside of Ottawa, for a fun family day and an out of this world brunch experience! Once a month, Fairmont Montebello opens its Sunday Brunch to the public so you will want to reserve in advance. The crepes are delicious, with local maple syrup (kept warm at all times), fresh pressed juice, omelettes made ready just as you like them, and tables upon tables of meats, cheeses, yogurt with all the toppings, and more. If you make it out to enjoy the brunch why not pair it with an afternoon at Parc Omega while you are there.

Elgin Street Diner

If you are local to Ottawa you most likely had a “day after a night out” breakfast at ESD and not much has changed since those days! Enjoy the laid back atmosphere that ESD has always provided with the same great service and huge portions.  Known for their cheap eats with huge portions and great quality this is top pick for busy families on the go. The milkshakes here are also a winner and the food options are endless. When you are finished eating head over to the Nature Museum for some family fun exploring mammals, dinosaurs and birds.

 

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The Belmont

Living up to their slogan “Anytime is the right time for The Belmont” their brunch options won’t disappoint! With bottomless mimosas for $25/person and options ranging from “Full Belmont,” a classic eggs, potatoes, sausage, bacon, and warm biscuit to huevos rancheros or their tasty oat cakes, there is something for all palettes and appetites.

 

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The King Eddy

Voted as having one of Ottawa’s best breakfast sandwiches the King Eddy is a must have breakfast stop if you are in the Byward Market. Brunch is available 8-4p.m. daily with other breakfast items served into the late night. With mimosas and caesars flowing for the adults the kids will be enthralled with the easy going and animated decor and yummy food.

Al’s Diner

If you don’t spend a lot of time in the Westboro area you may not even know about Al’s Diner. It’s a gem located in the industrial part of the Westboro area just off of Clyde. You will find many locals here who have been coming for breakfast week after week and there is a reason why!  Quick but great eats in true diner style. They serve breakfast all day long so you can get your breakfast fix no matter the time of day. Don’t miss out on this location for a quick stop when looking for great spot for family brunch in Ottawa.

The Best Spots for Family Brunch in Calgary

It seems like the words brunch and Calgarian go hand in hand, and with all of the awesome restaurant options available in YYC, it’s easy to see why.  If you’re looking for great a great family brunch in Calgary, we’ve got you covered.

The Best Spots for Family Brunch in Calgary

Thomson’s Kitchen + Bar | hyatt.com

112 8 Avenue SE (inside the Hyatt)
Breakfast Hours – Brunch Buffet Hours – Sundays from 10 am – 2 pm

Thomson’s Kitchen + Bar, located inside the Hyatt downtown has two fantastic breakfast and brunch options you won’t want to miss. All week long, breakfast includes mouthwatering options like Braised Bison Cheek Breakfast Poutine, Warm Mocha Espresso Waffles and classics like eggs benedict and omelets. For something extra special, head down between 10 am and 2 pm on Sundays for their brunch buffet, which is $42 for guests over 12, $21 for kids aged 6-12 and free for kiddos under 5. Prepare to dine on delicious items like pancakes, farm-fresh salads, pastries and slow-roasted Alberta beef.  Even if you aren’t a guest of the hotel, Thomson’s Kitchen + Bar is a great place to get brunch on Sundays from 10-2!

Diner Deluxe | dinerdeluxe.com

3 Locations – Bridgeland, Mahogany, and Marda Loop
Breakfast/Brunch Hours – 8 am – 3 pm

All three Diner Deluxe locations offer kids’ menus for guests 12 and under that include everything from classic cold cereal to French toast, breakfast sandwiches and more. All kids’ menu items are under $10. They have an extensive menu for grownups including classics like eggs benedict, omelettes, and huevos rancheros, as well as irresistable items like fried chicken and waffles and stuffed French toast.


The Bro’Kin Yolk | brokinyolk.ca

3 locations – Creekside, Signal Hill and Mahogany
Breakfast/Brunch Hours – Daily from 8 am – 2 pm

There are so many reasons to love Bro’Kin Yolk, and their incredible food is an obvious place to start. Aside from delicious menu items like their eggs benny, breakfast poutine, breakfast sandwiches  and breakfast classics like chicken & waffles, they also have a great value Kids’ Menu with brunch and lunch options. Don’t miss out on their mini Belgian waffles for an appetizer or even a full breakfast; they come with your choice of toppings including maple syrup, white chocolate lavender, salted caramel, berry compote and Nutella sauce.


OEB | eatoeb.com

4 locations – Bridgeland, Downtown, Mission, University District
Breakfast/Brunch Hours – Open 7:30 am – 2:45 pm daily at Bridgeland, University District and Mission locations; Open 6:30 am – 2 pm M-F and 8 am – 3 pm on weekends and holidays downtown

If you haven’t had a chance to visit OEB for breakfast, you’ll definitely want to add this Calgary staple to your list. With a monster menu filled with more options than you can shake a fork at, your biggest challenge will probably be deciding between savoury or sweet. One of our family favourites is their Soul in a Bowl, which is like a breakfast poutine.  We also can’t wait to try their gnocchi breakfast carbonara. The good news is, whatever you pick, it’s all delicious!


Cora’s | chezcora.com

4 locations – Macleod, Sunridge Mall, Northland Village, Brentwood
Breakfast/Brunch Hours – Monday – Saturday from 6 am – 3 pm, Sundays from 7 am – 3 pm

Cora’s is a breakfast spot popular with kids and parents alike thanks to their pretty plate presentations, generous portion sizes and delicious food. Cora has menu options created for kids 12 and under in addition to their “Teen’s Favourites” and regular menu items. Cora’s also offers a loyalty program where you can collect points to help save money on future breakfast visits! If you’re having a hard time deciding, their crepes are a classic!

Phil's Family Brunch in Calgary

Phil’s | phils.ca

4 Locations – North Hill, Forest Lawn, 11 Avenue, and Glenmore Trail
Breakfast Hours – Daily from open (varies by location) – 8 pm

Phil’s is a classic breakfast restaurant that families love because Phil’s love families! Pancakes, crepes, waffles, french toast, eggs, bacon, sausages and more are all on the menu at totally reasonable prices.

Moxies | moxies.com

4 locations – Downtown, Barlow, Shawnessy and Deerfoot Meadows

Our family recently stayed at the Sandman Signature downtown and were excited to discover that Moxies serves a delicious breakfast for grownups and kids alike. It was hard to decide between lighter fare like granola and yogurt or something heartier like brioche French toast with berries and whipped cream or Sicilian sausage hash. There’s a great kids menu as well!

Yellow Door Bistro| yellowdoorbistro.ca

119 12 Avenue SW
Brunch Hours – 9 am – 2:30 pm on weekends and statutory holidays

No word of a lie – Yellow Door Bistro has one of the most delicious brunches I’ve ever had. The menu changes weekly, but in the past, I’ve enjoyed everything from bread pudding to eggs benedict, hash browns, sausages, bacon, and more. There are cold continental items such as fresh fruit bowls with steel-cut oatmeal, a charcuterie selection, pastries, and yogurt.

Do you have a favourite spot for family brunch in Calgary that didn’t make our list? Do you love one of the ones above? We’d love to hear about them in the comments!

The Best Spots for Family Brunch in Toronto - SavvyMom

The Best Family Brunch Spots in Toronto

Brunch—it’s the best meal of the day, right? Afterall, not only does it offer all the deliciousness of breakfast, but it can also include sandwiches, salads, even pizza! This makes it easier to find something for your picky kids to eat. And then there’s the timing. Not too early, not too late and it can be worked around nap time. What’s not to love? Okay, okay, sometimes brunch gets a bad rap: long lines, overpriced dishes, and restaurants filled with customers who aren’t cool with kids and the uh, noise they can bring to a room. So we’ve asked around and done a bit of research, including some in-person, to track down these spots for family brunch in Toronto that prove just why brunch is the best meal to enjoy out with your kids.

The Best Spots for Family Brunch in Toronto

BOCA
488 Cosburn Ave., Toronto

Standing for Brunch on Cosburn Avenue, this new spot for family brunch in Toronto takes over the old Paul’s Spaghetti restaurant and brings classic brunch food to one of Toronto’s more kid-packed neighbourhoods. To cater to all those families, BOCA offers a kids’ menu that doubles as a colouring sheet (and yes, crayons are also provided). All the usual suspects are offered here, as well as some harder-to-find items including strawberry cream cheesecake crepes, salmon omelettes, and buffalo chicken poutine. BOCA is a small space but there is a nice-sized outdoor patio that’s perfect for those who prefer to dine al fresco. BOCA can also be fully booked out, in case one of your kids dreams of a brunch-themed birthday party.

Cafe Landwer
33 Bloor St. E. & 165 University Ave., Toronto

Does your family need a downtown brunch destination suitable for meeting up with a bunch of people? Then Cafe Landwer might be your place! It has space, it takes reservations, and it has an extensive menu that caters to almost everyone. While that menu has plenty of Mediterranean flair (choose from one of six kinds of shakshukas), there are also pancakes, Belgian waffles, and even burgers. And for the kids, there’s a special menu that includes eggs, pizza, and chicken tenders (that turns into an activity sheet). Cafe Landwer also has four other locations in and around Toronto.

Dirty Food
3079 Dundas St. W., Toronto

This Junction spot is small (leave the stroller at home and try to get there early) but is huge on taste with options such as deep-fried pickle grilled cheese, a chicken and waffle sandwich, and — for those who are vegan and/or gluten-free — chocolate chip sweet cakes (essentially sweet potato pancakes). Kids can pick from the main menu or get some from their own list, which includes grilled cheese, apple johnnycakes, or eggs and toast. Oh, and parents? This place has top-notch (and morning-appropriate) cocktails.

Emma’s Country Kitchen
810 St. Clair Ave. W., Toronto

The self-proclaimed “little slice of breakfast heaven” is famous for its delicious buttermilk biscuits. And that’s just the start of Emma’s carb-heavy menu. This awesome spot for family brunch in Toronto offers options that are sure to satisfy your family including cinnamon bun pancakes, buttermilk doughnuts, and breakfast poutine, There’s also a fried chicken platter that, for $50, will feed a family of four. Not able to dine inside? Then order Emma’s for delivery! This service is only available on the weekend and covers a specific slice of west central-ish Toronto. Want more good news? Emma’s is also a certified living wage employer; no wonder the service is so great.

Fran’s
200 Victoria St. & 20 College St., Toronto

Of course, we must include this Toronto classic! Fran’s has two downtown locations that are great for grabbing brunch before a play, a game or if you’re meeting up with friends or family who are staying in the core (the Victoria Street location is particularly good for larger groups). These restaurants can get a little loud but that’s all the better for drowning out any noise made by your kids. Fran’s all-bay breakfast includes pancakes, omelets, and benedicts. There’s also a wide selection of non-breakfast items and let’s not forget about Fran’s amazing cakes and milkshakes. Can’t make it into Fran’s? It also offers delivery.

Good Fork
1550 Dundas St. W., Toronto

The menu at this Middle Eastern-themed spot isn’t your traditional bacon and French toast, but if your kids have a diverse palate this west-end diner is worth a visit. Pancakes are available, including one option that has orange blossom ricotta, but so is a hummus bowl that you can customize, and something called the anatolian delight platter, which features pomegranate, whipped feta, and a simit and red lentil soup. Good Fork takes reservations and is also quite spacious with, dare we say it, room for a stroller.

Lakeview Diner
1132 Dundas St. W., Toronto

At the time of publication, this Toronto institution is closed for renovations. But its owners have promised that when it reopens, things won’t have changed too much. With its large space, casual vibe, and kids’ menu that comes with crayons and options such as pancakes, chicken fingers, and mac and cheese, the Lakeview has historically been a great spot for west-end families, so long as you arrive before the late morning rush. Fingers crossed that the Lakeview remains a go-to- destination for families and that those delicious milkshakes make a return!

Lazy Daisy’s Café
1515 Gerrard St. E., Toronto

The train table might be gone but Lazy Daisy’s is still a family-friendly spot for family brunch in Toronto that embraces the presence of children. It offers fast, warm service and cute décor that’s also kid friendly. This spot is also home to some of the best buttermilk biscuits you can find in this city (and which come in a few different flavours). There’s a dedicated kids’ menu that features grilled cheese and various pancake options, among other choices. For adults, the menu offers breakfast sandwiches, cinnamon pancakes, baked goods, and more.

Ok Ok Diner
1128 Queen St. E., Toronto

This place has been around since 1952 so you know it must be good! The décor and atmosphere are what you would expect of an old-school diner, and this isn’t a big space—though come the warm weather, the patio provides more seats—but it’s a relaxed restaurant that offers classic brunch options at very reasonable prices. It also serves up some not-so-classic dishes, such as Elvis Is King, which is French toast with peanut butter and bananas (and you can add Nutella for an extra charge). If you’re looking for something a little lighter, we highly recommend the California chicken club sandwich, which features generous slices of avocadoes.

Stacked Pancake House
425 Danforth Ave., Toronto

The first Toronto location of this pancake-focused chain is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and massive portions. Even the kids’ meals are huge! And while pancakes, which come in such fun variations as white chocolate Oreo, strawberry cheesecake, and birthday cake, are the star here, lots of other options are available. Think omelettes, sandwiches, and French toast. As a nice bonus, this spot will also give your kids crayons and a colouring sheet that doubles as the kids’ menu.

Sunny Morning
1392 Yonge St. & 1602 The Queensway, Unit E2, Toronto

Plus other locations around Ontario…

This is a made-in-Ontario success story that got its start right here in Toronto! Sunny Morning lives up to its name by brightening mornings (and afternoons) with an extensive menu packed with fresh and delicious food. Enjoy pancakes, Belgium waffles, and French toast in classic styles or enhanced with caramel sauce, strawberries, or other tasty additions. There’s also a wide selection of eggs, burgers, sandwiches, and more, meaning everyone in your family will find something to eat.

Thrive Restaurant
3473 Lake Shore Blvd W., Toronto

Need a family-friendly brunch spot that also accommodates vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets? Then Thrive will have your family, well, thriving! The food here is fresh, healthy, and delicious. Think coconut Caesar salad; breakfast dishes and wraps that include eggs, and even pizzas. There are also lots of juice and smoothie options, some of which are essentially a meal in a glass. The atmosphere is quite mellow and there’s also lots of space; you could likely even maneuver a stroller up to your table.

Streaming in April for Kids & Families - SavvyMom

What’s Streaming in April for Kids & Families

Spring is almost here, and with it comes lots of fresh air, a certain bunny, and Earth Week. But, while you’re probably clamouring to get the kids outside and soak in the warming weather, let’s not forget that old saying about April showers. That’s why we’ve got a new list of family-friendly shows and films you can check out this month. From Earth Day selections to blockbuster films, here are 12 projects streaming in April for kids and families.

What’s Streaming in April for Kids and Families

Jurassic World: Dominion - SavvyMom

Jurassic World: Dominion
Saturday April 1 on Crave

If you’ve got age-appropriate and dino-loving kids but couldn’t see the latest Jurassic Park blockbuster in theatres, pop up some popcorn and start your month off right with an epic movie night. Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard star alongside Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, and Sam Neill in this new, PG-13 adventure.

The Crossover Streaming in April - SavvyMom

The Crossover
Wednesday April 5 on Disney+

Sports and coming-of-age stories go together like peanut (or WOW) butter and jelly, so there’s lots to love about this new series. It revolves around a family of basketball players, told in The Wonder Years style. Daveed Diggs narrates as adult Josh, who looks back at his teen years with his brother, Jordan. Jalyn Hall, and Amir O’Neil star as Josh and Jordan, respectively, as they tackle the pressures of high school ball while adjusting to life with a newly retired pro player father and a mother who is finally ready to pursue her own dreams.

CocoMelon Season 8 - SavvyMom

CoComelon Season 8
Monday April 10 on Netflix

Ready for a new slew of songs from JJ and co? Of course you are. Thankfully, a new season of every preschooler’s favourite singing family is here to entertain this month. That means you can ditch some of the old songs that are stuck in your head and look forward to new earworms like “Yankee Doodle,” “Skip to My Lou,” and “Hokey Pokey” instead.

Rennervations Streaming in April - SavvyMom

Rennervations
Wednesday April 12 on Disney+

Jeremy Renner is the hero your family deserves, isn’t he? Not only is he a bona fide MCU star, but following that scary snow plow accident in January, he continues to persevere and inspire with his recovery. And now he’s debuting this four-part series, which shows off a whole new side of Hawkeye: his love of reimagining decommissioned, purpose-built vehicles to better serve communities. Think of transforming an old tour bus into a mobile music studio or a delivery truck that becomes a portable water treatment facility. There are also fun guest stars to look forward to, including Anthony Mackie and Vanessa Hudgens.

Rugrats Reboot SavvyMom - SavvyMom

Rugrats (New season)
Friday April 14 on Paramount+

In 2021, Tommy, Chuckie, and the rest of the Rugrats crew returned with this rebooted series—30 years after the original debuted. Once you get used to the updated graphics, you can stream that series and its first 24 episodes in full on Paramount+. Then, tune into the debut of the second season in mid-April. Introduce it to younger grade-school kids to occupy them this month, all while invoking your own nostalgia.

Netflix Family Earth Week - SavvyMom

Netflix Family Earth Week
April 17 to 23 on Netflix

Looking to fire up a conversation with the family about Earth Week this month? Netflix hopes to help with this curated list of titles designed to engage families of all ages. There are docs, cartoons, movies, and other educational offerings to choose from, so maybe draw straws to see who gets to pick what’s streaming next.

Edible Insects
Monday April 17 on CBC Gem

Know another unique way to celebrate Earth Week? Introducing your kids to all the ways you can actually eat bugs. Enter this doc that explores creepy, crawly, protein alternatives and the people who enjoy them in their tummies. You may not want to whip up an insect milkshake after watching, but at the very least it may open your family’s minds regarding what we eat and why.

Big Beasts on AppleTV - SavvyMom

Big Beasts
Friday April 21 on Apple TV+

If your family loves watching giant animals do their thing, this educational series comes just in time for Earth Week. MCU star Tom Hiddleston narrates the 10-part doc, which took two years to film across rainforests, freezing poles, and other far-off destinations. From hippos and gray whales to elephant seals and polar bears, there are all kinds of big beasts to explore.

Ada Twist: Scientist - SavvyMom

Ada Twist: Scientist Season 4
Saturday April 22 on Netflix

Ada, Iggy, and Rosie are back for a new batch of science-based adventures, only this season, there’s a twist: the gang welcomes tech-wiz Benny B. to the fold. Not only does this kid come equipped with great new ideas, but he’s also got a cool robot-dog sidekick.

Star Wars Young Jedi Adventures - SavvyMom

Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures
Wednesday April 26 on Disney+

Want to get the kids into Star Wars without throwing them into the scarier, live-action aspects of the galaxy? This animated series may be your ticket. The preschool (and young grade-school) friendly project features Jedi younglings studying the ways of the Force. Along the way, they’ll do some galaxy-exploring, helping citizens and creatures in need.

Peter Pan & Wendy Streaming in April - SavvyMom

Peter Pan & Wendy
Friday April 28 on Disney+

The newest high-profile Disney flick is here to save family movie night this month, putting a new(ish) spin on the story of Peter Pan. The bones are the same (three kids take an actual leap of faith and fly to Neverland behind a kid in tights), but there are updated effects, a more diverse cast (Yara Shahidi as Tink!), and Jude Law as Captain Hook to look forward to. This one also clocks in under two hours, which is crucial for kids with shorter attention spans.

Streaming in April Frog & Toad - SavvyMom

Frog and Toad
Friday April 28 on Apple TV+

Arnold Lobel’s classic children’s book series gets a reimagining thanks to Apple TV+ this month. This animated take follows the amphibians as they discover and celebrate their differences, strengthening their friendship along the way. The star-studded voice cast includes Nat Faxon, Yvette Nicole Brown, Ron Funches, Margaret Cho, Fortune Feimster, and Kevin Michael Richardson.