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Recipes to Celebrate Canada Day - SavvyMom

8 Recipes to Celebrate Canada Day

Canada’s birthday is July 1 and there is no better way to celebrate this special day than by enjoying an amazing meal with your friends and family. So, from the best beef burgers we’ve ever made (think sirloin beef with aged cheddar and fresh thyme), to the quintessential Canadian treat (yes, we’re talking about S’mores), we’re sharing 8 of our favourite Canadian-influenced recipes with you. With these recipes to celebrate Canada Day, now all you’ve got to do is grab a few groceries, whip up some of your faves, and sit back and enjoy the fireworks (with a cold one of course).

8 Recipes to Celebrate Canada Day

8 recipes for canada day, best beef burger

1. Best Beef Burgers

Bursting with flavour, these are the burgers you will keep making all summer long!

8 recipes for canada day, turkey burgers with hummus and avocado

2. Turkey Burgers with Hummus & Avocado

Looking for something lighter and more interesting than a beef burger? Our turkey burgers with avocado and hummus should do the trick.

8 recipes to celebrate canada day, caprese crostini

3. Caprese Crostini

Fresh, healthy, (and let’s face it, adorable), these caprese crostini are made extra-special by using heirloom tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella cheese.

8 recipes to celebrate canada day, best roasted potatoes

4. Best Roasted Potatoes

Fresh and flavour-packed, these roasted potatoes are your new go-to summer side

8 recipes to celebrate canada day, grilled corn with herbed butter

5. Grilled Corn with Herb Butter

Oh, corn on the cob. Summer just wouldn’t be the same without you. This grilled corn with a super fresh herb butter will easily be the tastiest side you’ll make this long weekend!

8 recipes to celebrate canada day, rustic panzanella salad

6. Rustic Panzanella Salad

Crusty toasted bread (that soaks up all the lemony vinaigrette), fresh juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers and pepper, silky buffalo mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves, all come together beautifully in this fast and fresh salad. Our tip? Let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving to let all the flavours mingle. Perfect served with some grilled fish, steak, or chicken.

8 recipes to celebrate canada day, marbled blueberry and vanilla popsicles

7. Marbled Blueberry & Vanilla Popsicles

These kid-friendly marbled blueberry and vanilla popsicles are made with four simple & healthy ingredients and they make a healthy summer treat perfect to celebrate Canada Day!

8 recipes to celebrate canada day, s'mores

8. S’Mores

The quintessential summer treat for kids, s’mores – graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate – seriously, what could be better?

Expert Sun Safety Tips & Information - SavvyMom

Expert Sun Safety Information & Tips

Nothing makes you feel uneducated like trying to choose a simple sunscreen for yourself and your kids. Even the savviest among us get stumped when it comes to SPF, UVA, and UVB ratings. That’s why we consulted Dr. Sandy Skotnicki of Bay Dermatology Centre, our friend, mom of three boys, and expert dermatologist, who also has flawless skin. She sent us her sun safety tips and favourite picks for sunscreens.

Experty Sun Safety Information & Tips

SPF:

SPF refers to the product’s ability to block out the sun’s harmful rays. An SPF 15 product blocks about 94% of UVB rays, an SPF 30 product blocks 97% of UVB rays, and an SPF 45 product blocks about 98% of rays.

UVA & UVB:

UVA rays age skin while UVB rays burn it. Overexposure to either can irreparably damage the skin.

Bottom Line: The SPF number on sunscreens only reflects the products’ ability to screen UVB rays, so it is important to look for broad spectrum sunscreen/sunblock that blocks out both UVB and UVA rays.

Understand that sunscreens over SPF 30 are better, but remember that a high SPF level isn’t enough. SPF only tells you about UVB coverage, so a really high SPF (i.e. 60) may have little to no UVA coverage and UVA is the more important UV wavelength to protect ourselves from. Most important is not the SPF level but the broad band UVA and UVB coverage.

It’s Not All the Sun’s Fault…

The sun is only one risk factor for skin cancer. Remember that skin cancer can develop in areas never exposed to the sun, just like lung cancer is not exclusive to those who smoke.

The Truth About Zinc…

Zinc, commonly used in natural sunblocks, is not unsafe—despite occasional news reports to the contrary. (Some news reports suggest the nano molecules of zinc and titanium are so small they can penetrate and get into our body.) Dr. Skotnicki says these sunblocks are not harmful and that all zinc and titanium-based products have to adhere to set guidelines.

Sunscreens Do Not Block All UV Rays…

Some UV rays still penetrate past the sunscreen. What you want to do is decrease the most harmful ones (UVA) the best you can. Definitely avoid sunburns, as burning is associated with increases in both basal cell carcinoma and melanoma. Seek out shade whenever possible, or bring your own in the form of a beach umbrellas or baby beach tents.

SPF in Your Makeup Is Not Enough…

A minimum of a teaspoon size of foundation/makeup is required to get enough of the SPF 15 you need. Since SPF is determined by a specific quantity of sunscreen applied to the skin, if you are under that quantity (i.e. one teaspoon for the face), the SPF is less. If you are out for short periods—and not between 11 am and 2 pm—then it may be enough coverage. Otherwise, use makeup for makeup and sunscreen for sunscreen.

Know the Difference Between Sunscreen and Sunblock

Sunblocks (zinc, titanium) do not contain chemical sunscreen that is needed to be absorbed into the skin for truly effective sun safety. Zinc and titanium sit on the surface of the skin and instead reflect the light and UV rays.

There’s No Such Thing As a Healthy Tan

We may think we all look better with a little sun-kissed glow, but according to our dermatologist, there is no such thing as a healthy tan, unless that tan comes from a bottle!

Cover Up!

SPF-swimwear is a literal extra layer of protection for soft baby skin. And sunhats are absolutely essential. Good thing they are also pretty cute!

The Moment I Realized We’re Never Done Parenting

When the oldest of my six kids was 18-years-old, you would think that some of the parenting would sort of be ‘done’ by this point. But I have a PSA for all the moms of small humans: Don’t look too forward to being able to kick back when they get older. Here’s why.

Being a mom can sometimes feel like this:

These women have been fighting for SO long. As have us parents. We’re never done parenting. And I have to say, it’s tiring. This is particularly true when you have a child with special needs.

The eldest of my six children, who is on the autism spectrum, was heading off to University. I’m proud to say he was accepted to ALL the schools he applied to, however his first choice had the requirement of an 83.5% average to be guaranteed a spot to live in residence. My son had an 83.1% average, so he wasn’t guaranteed a spot.

Yes, he was off by only less than half a percent.

Honestly, I kind of lost my shit when I heard this. Here is a kid with an actual diagnosis. I can’t have him NOT in residence for his first year at University. He needed the support of the housing department and needs the social opportunities that residence living provides. One would think that there would be an appeal process for kids with special needs, or exceptions made, or heck – even a lottery system so that the student body in residence would be inclusive and diverse.

Nope, nada, nothing.

I communicated with the Dean of Students and the Director of Housing and their “hands were tied”, which is an excuse I have very little time for coming from senior administrators. To not consider the hardship my son has faced and the obstacles he has overcome? Shameful. Did I mention, HALF A PERCENT?

One evening I was explaining to my son that we likely could not accept the offer from his first choice University because there was no residence guarantee. I explained the discussion I was involved in and he said “Uh oh, are you going to go all Mama Bear?”

While he has good self-advocacy skills—18 years later I was still advocating for this child.

Moms, we’re never done.

With that, I’m proud to say my amazing son attending the University of Guelph. It’s a school that’s aligned in our family values of inclusivity. Here’s to him! Here’s to me (that was one down, five to go!)

And here’s to all of us parents who never stop loving and parenting and advocating.

Best Spots for Berry Picking in Ottawa - SavvyMom

Best U-Pick Berry Farms in the Vancouver-Area

The sensational early summer offerings of berries around Vancouver are not just delicious, but also inspire mouth-watering culinary offerings and a deep dive into the world of jams, jellies and joyful eats for all. Since the arrival of my two girls, I’ve come to love this time of year, as berry picking ranks high on my list of favourite outdoor activities with a big and tasty payoff. I’m lucky to live in an area on the outskirts of Vancouver that is home to a number of beautiful berry farms in the Vancouver area, and I love spending time with my daughters picking, playing and of course eating berries for a few hours every few weeks.

Have I piqued your interest? I hope so! Read on for a list of the top berry farms for u-picking, markets and tons of great activities around Vancouver – some even offer ice cream. e the latest updates on how each farm is handling safety measures during this unprecedented time.

U-Pick Berry Farms in the Vancouver Area:

SavvyMom-Vancouver-U-Pick-Berry-Farms-Krause

Kraus Berry & Estate Winery

6179 248th Street, Langley

Located on 200 acres of beautiful farmland In Langley, BC, Kraus family-friendly farm and estate winery is the gem of berry farms in the Fraser Valley. Featuring u-pick berry fields (strawberries are done for the season, but raspberry picking is available), a bakery, market, winery and food stops (the waffles are out of this world), this farm has it all.

U-pick begins with raspberries and moves on to blueberries and blackberries. You can also purchase the berries pre-picked all year round. Either way, be sure to grab some wine, veggies and other goodies while you’re there. Check out krauseberryfarms.com for hours and u-pick berry options.

SavvyMom-Vancouver-U-Pick-Driediger-Farms

Driediger Farms

23823 72 Ave, Langley

Since 1964, Driediger has been offering u-pick berries to the people of Langley and beyond. Somewhat of an institution around here, Driediger has a reputation for offering the finest berries that BC has to offer along with a ton of entertainment and family fun. In addition to the regular strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries, but not for u-pick, Driediger also offers red currants. Purchase a bucket for picking, or bring your own!

Go berry picking with the family or if your kiddos are little, pick some and then buy some fresh at their farm market, featuring berries, produce, eggs, ice cream and other artisan deliciousness. Visit driedigerfarms.com for u-pick hours and other info.

Surrey Farms

4981 King George Blvd, Surrey

With two Surrey locations, these easy-to-access u-pick farms are already open for business! They’re currently offering strawberries, but blueberries and raspberries will be available soon for your picking pleasure. With no admission fee, Surrey Farms is a great option for a few hours of picking with your family. Keep in mind that the farm is open subject to berry supply, so call ahead to avoid disappointment. Visit surreyfarms.ca/upick for details.

SavvyMom-Vancouver-U-Pick-Berry-Farm-Formosa-Nursery

Formosa Nursery

12689 203rd St, Maple Ridge

A BC certified organic farm, Formosa Nursery is located on the border of Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge and offers u-picking and pre-picked options of fruit throughout the summer and fall. Offering raspberries, blueberries, grapes and pears, the u-pick season opens in July with the ripening of the first berries. They also have a range of plants, trees and shrubs available for purchase as well as a retail store on site so you can grab some extra goodies on your way out. Visit formosanursery.com for prices and other info.

SavvyMom-Vancouver-Berry-Picking-Maan-Farms

Maan Farms

790 McKenzie Road, Abbotsford

For another top-notch farm experience a little further east, take a day to explore the wow-worthy offerings of Maan Farms in Abbotsford. In addition to offering the freshest and best of the region’s berries for picking, Maan Farms also supports sustainability throughout their 80 acres of farmland.

Head to Maan Farms for some berry picking with the family and then spend the rest of your day enjoying ice cream, animals and maybe even some goat yoga or a glass of wine. This lovely farm offers something for everyone and is a family favourite for good reason. Visit maanfarms.com/berries or check their Instagram page for all the latest info.

Emma Lee Farms

2727 Westham Island Road, Delta

Hours: 7 days a week beginning in early June, 8 am-7 pm (check daily for opening!) Until then, Saturdays, 10 am-3 pm. Ice cream shop open daily 8 am-7 pm.

A local family farm dating back to 1885, Emma Lee Farms offers a quaint mix of farm and fun for the entire family. Offering a wide variety of products from u-pick and pre-picked berries, produce, honey and other preserves, gifts, pickled veggies, frozen foods and more! To top it off, they have a great little ice cream shop for a cooling sweet treat after berry picking in the warm sun. Visit emmaleafarms.com for all the details.

Berry picking offers a great opportunity to get outside and spend some time connecting with nature and with your family and will provide you with fresh, local berries all year round. You can’t get better than that. So, get out to one of these local farms and enjoy some local flavour.

berry picking Calgary

U-Pick Berry Farms Near Calgary

One of my favourite memories from childhood will always be filling up ice cream pails with fresh strawberries alongside my brother and my dad at the U-Pick field near our house. Since houses now cover that field, I’ve done a little digging to find some of the best U-Pick Berry Farms near Calgary so I can recreate those memories with my own kids. As it turns out, there are a lot of great options for getting your fill of fresh produce, whether you’re looking for berries, veggies, or even flowers.

Check out our list (in order of closest to town to furthest away) and prepare to get pickin’!

U-Pick Berry Farms Near Calgary

Note: Before heading out to any U-Pick location, check their website or call ahead of time to make sure that the type of produce you’re looking for is in season and ready for picking. You may also want to check on their availability as many fruits and veggies are sold on a first-come, first served basis. All U-Pick farms recommend that you come wearing long sleeves (to protect you from scratches, the sun, and bugs), a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and a bottle of water to keep you hydrated during your pick! For hygiene reasons, pets are asked to be kept at home. Although the time it takes to fill a bucket varies by person and what you’re picking, in general, 30-60 minutes should be enough time to fill a 4L bucket with yummy berries!


Purple Ridge Farm | facebook.com

(35 km from Calgary) – 107 Farries Dr, Airdrie, AB
By appointment only

Purple Ridge Farm is a small family farm that welcomes guests for picking by booking an appointment. They are closed daily from 12:30 pm-2:30 pm but are quite flexible with times. While they don’t grow strawberries, they do have a range of fruit and veggies such as Saskatoons, rasberries, rhubarb, zucchini, potatoes, and peas. Be sure to bring cash, as they are a cash-only farm!


Prairie Berry YYC | prairieberryyyc.com

(39 km from Calgary) – 225036 RR 282, Rocky View County
Monday to Sunday, 9 am – 6 pm

If 2 different varieties of pesticide-free Saskatoon berries are on your must-pick list, you’ve gotta make a quick trip to Prairie Berry YYC! This family-run farm provides a great place to get your hands juicy, in addition to offering information on how to find and pick the best berries, and which recipes they will shine in after they head home in your bucket! The farm also has a mini market which carries Albertan-made crafts and other products.

The Saskatoon Farm | saskatoonfarm.com

(48 km from Calgary) – 80181 338 Avenue East #20, Foothills No. 31
Monday to Sunday, 9 am – 5 pm

Our family loves the Saskatoon Farm. It’s easy to spend the better part of the afternoon wandering around looking at the beautiful flowers and plants, taking in incredible views, checking out the unique home décor items for sale, visiting pigs, bunnies, roosters and hens, and, of course, picking our favourite berries at the U-Pick. Check their website to see what’s in season and available for picking – strawberries, sour cherries, black currants, apples and Saskatoons are usually grown on the farm.


Solstice Berry Farm | solsticeberryfarm.com

(67 km from Calgary) – 29250 Range Rd 34, Crossfield
By appointment only

Keep an eye on Solstice Berry Farm’s website for updates on the opening of their 2023 growing season, as it’s looking like their 10 acres of Saskatoons may be making an appearance early this year! When you arrive at the farm,check in with our staff at the store first for directions to the best picking locations in the orchard. You can bring your own bucket for picking, or purchase one on site. In addition to picking berries to take home for your own cooking, if you’d like to try some of the recipes they’ve perfected, be sure to pick up some of their artisanal preserves and pies.

SavvyMom-Calgary-U-Pick-Sweet-Life-Saskatoon

Sweet Life Saskatoons | sweetlifesaskatoons.com

(48 km from Calgary) – 281047 Symons Valley Road NW, Madden, AB
Monday to Sunday, 9 am – 6 pm

When you arrive at Sweet Life Saskatoons, check-in at the small brown shop at the end of the driveway to get your picking buckets and then get ready to go! Once you return with your bucket full, the berries will be transferred to a bag for you to take home. There are usually picnic tables and a play area where you can take a break and have a snack (maybe try a handful of berries or two!) before heading back home. Last year’s Saskatoon crop wasn’t hearty enough for picking, so be sure to reach out before heading out to pick in 2023.

SavvyMom-Calgary-U-Pick-Berry-Pleasant-View

Pleasant View U Pick Berries | pleasantviewupickberries.com

(63 km from Calgary) – Rocky View No. 44, AB
Monday to Saturday, 8 am – 12 pm and 5 pm – 8 pm. Sundays & Holidays, 8 am – 12 pm. In-season picking is provided by appointment only.

Because there is no sales staff at Pleasant View U Pick Berries, appointments need to be made ahead of time to make sure that someone is ready to greet you upon your arrival to the field. Bring your own containers and prepare to fill your buckets. Your container will be weighed before you fill it up with yummy berries, and then weighed again afterwards to determine the price of your haul. This is a family farm, so there are no concessions or washrooms available. Haskaps, raspberries, saskatoons, rhubarb and other berries are generally available. Stay up to date on their Facebook page for the latest news.


Saskaberry Ranch | saskaberryranch.com

(104 km from Calgary) – Township Rd 324, Mountain View County
Monday to Saturday, 9 am – 6 pm

This small family farm welcomes guests to enjoy the sunshine while picking their own produce including strawberries, raspberries, sour cherries, rhubarb, cherry tomatoes and Saskatoons (dependent on the season). Bring your own pail or borrow one of theirs; when you’re all finished picking, you can pay by cash, e transfer or check. Check their website to learn more about current U-Pick conditions but don’t be surprised if calls or e-mails go unanswered during the day, as the owners are usually out picking alongside their guests.

SavvyMom-Calgary-U-Pick-Jungle-Farms

The Jungle Farm | thejunglefarm.com

(126 km from Calgary) – 28120 Township Road 362, Red Deer County, AB
Monday to Saturday, 8 am – 6 pm

While the U-Pick fields at The Jungle Farm are open 7 days a week, the general store and greenhouses are only open Monday-Saturday from 10 am – 6 pm, so plan your visit accordingly if you’d like to spend some time shopping on the farm after your picking of strawberries, raspberries and Saskatoons is all done! The renovated 1940’s barn is filled with yummy treats, produce and gorgeous giftware, while the greenhouse has hanging baskets, bulbs, bedding plants, and everything else you need to fill your yard with beautiful blooms! Strawberries, raspberries and Saskatoons are all available. As always, please check the website or call ahead for last-minute and up-to-date info.

Does your family have a favourite spot to pick berries and other produce? We’d love to hear about it in the comments!

Best Spots for Berry Picking in Ottawa - SavvyMom

Where to Go Berry Picking in Ottawa and Area

Experience the joy of berry picking in Ottawa with a variety of “pick your own” berry farms! The summer weather is here which means there are many delicious berries to eat in abundance. By picking your own berries, you not only connect with nature but also support local farmers and enjoy the freshness of locally grown fruits. We are sharing some of Ottawa’s “pick your own” berry farms and most of these farms also offer options to purchase on the spot with a variety of other farm fresh produce available as well.

Best Spots for Berry Picking in Ottawa

Proulx Farm

Located in Cumberland, Proulx Farm is a popular destination for berry picking. They offer a range of fruits, including strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.  Proulx Farm also has a market where you can purchase freshly picked berries and other local produce. Their picking page has a lot of great info and things to remember before you head out.

Shouldice Berry Farm

Shouldice Berry Farm is known for its strawberry and raspberry picking. The farm has fields where you can stroll and pick your own berries in 3 locations across Ottawa. They provide containers for picking, but you can also bring your own. After your picking adventure visit their market which offers fresh produce. All 3 locations are open 7 days a week, including Canada Day but check the conditions before you head out for their hours.

Miller’s Farm and Market

Located just 5km south of Manotick, Miller’s Farm and Market has been operating since 1981, making it a well-established destination for berry picking. The farm offers a variety of berries, including strawberries and raspberries, for visitors to pick and enjoy. The fields are meticulously maintained, ensuring a fruitful picking experience.

Rochon Gardens

Just a short drive outside the city in Edwards, Rochon Gardens welcomes you to pick your own berries. Whether you bring your own picking baskets or opt for ones available on-site, get ready for a fruitful adventure. While you’re there, don’t forget to explore their amazing CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) baskets, offering a fantastic assortment of fresh produce. Rochon Gardens provides a perfect opportunity to support local farming and enjoy the bounties of nature.

Avonmore Berry Farm

At Avonmore Berry Farm, a berry picking gem in Ottawa, you’ll find over 20 acres of delicious strawberries. Enjoy the juicy experience of picking your own strawberries, and don’t miss the upcoming raspberry picking in mid-July. With on-site play areas featuring sandboxes, slides, and swings, it’s the perfect spot for family fun.

Once you’ve enjoyed the experience of berry picking in Ottawa and have a basket filled with fresh and flavorful berries, there are countless ways to enjoy them. Here are a few ideas on what to make and how to enjoy your harvest:

  1. Fresh Berry Parfait: Layer your freshly picked berries with Greek yogurt or whipped cream, and top it off with granola or a drizzle of honey for a refreshing and nutritious breakfast or dessert.
  2. Berry Jam or Preserves: Preserve the flavors of summer by making homemade berry jam or preserves. Spread them on toast, pancakes, or use them as a filling for pastries to enjoy the taste of your berries year-round.
  3. Berry Smoothies: Blend your berries with some yogurt, milk, or a dairy-free alternative, along with a touch of honey or maple syrup for a delightful and nutritious smoothie. Add some ice for a refreshing treat on hot summer days.
  4. Berry Cobbler or Crumble: Bake a warm and comforting berry cobbler or crumble by combining your berries with a buttery crumb topping. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
  5. Berry Salad: Add a burst of freshness to your salads by tossing in some freshly picked berries. They pair beautifully with leafy greens, feta cheese, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette.
  6. Berry Infused Water: Add a handful of berries to a jug of water (or freeze them in ice cubes!) and let it infuse for a refreshing and flavorful twist on plain water. It’s a great way to stay hydrated while enjoying the natural sweetness of the berries.
  7. Berry Tarts or Pies: Use your berries to create tarts or pies. Whether you opt for a classic lattice-topped pie or individual fruit-filled tarts, the combination of flaky crust and juicy berries is sure to be a hit.

Get ready for a berry-filled adventure in Ottawa, supporting local farms and enjoying the freshest flavours of the region. Grab a basket, explore nature’s beauty, and indulge in a memorable berry picking experience that’s truly sweet with your family.

Tips and Prompts for a Meaningful Teacher Letter - SavvyMom

How to Really Show a Teacher You Appreciate Them

Another school year is coming to an end, and so too will the time my kids spend with some very important and influential people — their teachers.

Our family has been coming up with meaningful ways to say thank you for over a dozen years now, but it was after a turbulent start in grade school for one of my kids that we discovered the most appreciated kind of gift.

A gift card didn’t seem adequate for the many ways my son’s teachers had shown up for him that year. I was witness to encouragement and advocacy on his behalf, and I felt my son was truly seen and appreciated for who he was — despite the challenges of that school year.

As a storyteller, it felt natural to write them a story about the year and all the ways I had seen them make a difference. I added a photo of him as a toddler to convey how much it meant that they cared for him like he was someone’s child. And the response I received to that letter was beautiful, with one of the teachers telling me it changed the way she saw her job.

Now my kids expect to spend time every June writing a teacher letter about their year as a thank you to their teachers. I break it down into a few headings/prompts to help them get their thoughts across, and they can add whatever they want to.

Helpful Prompts for a Meaningful Teacher Letter

My favourite subject this year was:

Many teachers go above and beyond to bring inquiry style learning into their classrooms, and that means extra work and creativity on their part. For my grade two daughter, it was the Indigenous Peoples learning that her teacher wove into their lessons throughout the year that really made an impact. She cried through a reading of The Secret Path, and her teacher did, too. It’s something she’ll always remember.

Think outside the box. Was there a lesson that your child came home from school and couldn’t wait to tell you all about?

I loved it when:

For my grade six kid, an opportunity to do pottery with her class was an unexpected and wonderful way to end the school year. Her teacher sourced and purchased the art supplies and they were given full license to be creative with their projects. She understood that her teacher went out of her way to give this to her students, and really appreciated it. My son loved an online pen pal program that his language teacher had her students participate in with students from across the world. They exchanged information about their every day life and routines and it was a very positive and eye-opening experience for him.

Which project was your child really engaged in? It could be a classroom activity or a memorable field trip.

 I was surprised when:

Grade eight can be a time that phys-ed class is awkward and hard to make fun for so many different skill levels. My son’s teacher approached gym class as an opportunity to teach inclusivity and good sportsmanship. He created teams and had fun tournaments that gave the kids a sense of belonging. There were ceremonies and certificates to acknowledge each other’s contributions beyond just athletics. Not only did my son gain valuable experience in his physical education, he also got a wonderful boost of confidence and ended up loving the class.

Did your child’s teacher inspire your child to like a subject they didn’t think they would?

I will miss:

Three of my four children were lucky to have the same teacher during their primary years. She has the wonderful practice of reading out loud to them from beloved classics like Charlotte’s Web. Even though the kids were able to read it on their own, it was magical for them to share the stories in real time with their classmates. At the end of the book, she would host a screening with popcorn. All of my children told me how much they would miss listening to her read to them.

This is chance for your child to share a personal anecdote about their teacher that may or may not have anything to do with teaching and more to do with how their teacher made them feel.

At the end of my child’s teacher letter, I’ll add my own note about how I’ve seen my child grow and thrive during the school year. It’s often a surprise for a teacher to hear the little things they did made a big difference.

By taking the time to write a letter each year, my children also learn that a small gesture can have great meaning and a thank you gift can be as simple as taking the time to let someone know you noticed that they cared.

Best Spots for Berry Picking Near Toronto

By the time this roundup of spots for berry picking near Toronto is published, the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area’s many strawberry fields will be bursting with delicious fruit that is ready to be picked and enjoyed by your family. And then, before we know it, it will be time pick a long list of other fruits and vegetables, from cherries to pumpkins.

Toronto is lucky to be surrounded by dozens of farms that let you stop by and select your own produce. And while all these places welcome kids, some spots are just more family-friendly than others, often thanks to some fun, additional perks. Below we round up 11 such destinations, all of which are located roughly 90 minutes or less from Toronto (depending on traffic of course).

Since picking your own produce is a highly weather dependant activity, be sure to call ahead to confirm that what you want to pick is available. And unless we state otherwise, don’t forget to bring a basket or two, unless you want to end up buying your containers at the farm.

Best Spots for Berry Picking Near Toronto

Andrews Scenic Acres
9365 10 Side Rd., Milton, ON

Sprawling across 165 acres of countryside, Andrews Scenic Acres lets you pick 14 different varieties of produce plus flowers. As of late June, rhubarb, asparagus, and strawberries are ready for picking. Before or after you collect your fruits and vegetables, check out the farm’s many other attractions, including wagon rides, an animal corral and later in the season, a corn maze. And for the adults, there’s also a winery that creates award-winning fruit wines.

Applewood Farm Winery
2055 Saintfield Rd., Seagrave, ON

Now located just outside of Port Perry, Applewood Farm Winery continues its tradition of offering plump, juicy strawberries that are perfect for picking (as of late June this year). And come the fall, your family can select the perfect pumpkin. During both seasons, a play farmyard is open, to entertain the kids. Also available is an adorable patio and an on-site shop where you can pick up some of Applewood’s award-winning fruit wine, ciders, and mead, as well as other locally crafted items.

Barrie Hill Farms
2935 Barrie Hill Rd., Springwater, ON

While this spot is named after Barrie Hill, it also happens to offer some excellent options for berry picking near Toronto. Depending on the time of year, choose from strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Also available are beans, peas, both sweet and popping corn, and more. The farm also features wagons out to fields and a market and café where you can pick up something to enjoy at home or to snack on right then and there.

Brooks Farms
122 Ashworth Rd., Mount Albert, ON

Located just outside of Newmarket, this farm is sure to be adored by your kids as it’s home to over 10 acres of fun. Here you’ll find a giant sandbox, rubber duck races, even an “animated singing chicken show.” And let’s not forget the pick-your-own fields of strawberries, peas, saskatoon berries, corn, apples and more. And of course, there’s a market and café filled with tasty treats that you’ll want to stock up on.

Downey’s Farm
13682 Heart Lake Rd., Caledon, ON
1355 Hopewell Creek Rd., Breslau, ON

One of the GTA’s best known farms packs a whole day’s worth of fun. Its play area features everything from a wooden pirate ship to a tricycle racetrack to giant jumping pillows. Downey’s also features all kinds of seasonal events, including a Canada Day Strawberry Festival where you can enjoy a strawberry pancake breakfast. But before the kids get tired out in the play land, stop by the pick-your-own field—located on the other side of the road—and pick some strawberries, raspberries, apples, or pumpkins, depending on the season. Just want to focus on just picking apples? Downey’s also runs a second pick-your own apple orchard, located in Breslau, near Kitchener.

Forsythe Family Farm
1025 Cragg Rd., Greenbank, ON

Learn about farm life while picking your own strawberries, tomatoes, flowers and more at this family farm that supplies you with the containers you need. Just be sure to leave plenty of time for all the fun this place offers, including tractor rides, the Barnyard Adventure playground, chats with a farm educator and so much more. Special events are run on certain weekends while the market is open now through December 24, and offers everything from eggs to honey to meat to freshly made pies.

Organics Farm
7550 19 Ave., Markham, ON

As the name suggests, this farm offers certified organic produce. Pick-your-own strawberry season is now open and come the fall, apple picking will be available. Once you’ve filled your baskets, stop by the farm’s market and pick up some grown-on-site vegetables; wood-fired baked goods; local, pasture-raised meats and more. Then wrap up your day with ice cream. It’s
a few feature this year and will be offered in a range of scrumptious flavours.

Puddicome Estate Farms & Winery
1468 #8 Highway, Winona, Hamilton, ON

For over 200 years, this Stoney Creek area farm has been producing delicious, fresh food. While its market sells a wide variety of picked produce, your family can choose to pick their own strawberries, cherries (sweet or sour), pears (Bartlett or bosc), apples (over a dozen varieties to choose from) or pumpkins. After you’ve filled your baskets, check out the farm’s many other attractions including a train ride, a petting zoo and for the adults, wine and cider samples.

Robintide Farmsy
2720 King-Vaughan Rd., Maple, ON

Looking for a simple u-pick berry picking near Toronto experience? Then Robintide might be a good fit for your family. There’s no play lands or farm animals to pet here but there is a long list of pick-your-own produce available including: Strawberries, tomatoes, pumpkins, and more. Robintide also sells a nice selection of pre-picked vegetables, in case you don’t want to do all the work. Also available are a range of beautiful flowers (including sunflowers) your family can cut to create gorgeous bouquets (the fields also make for amazing photos).

Willowtree Farm
975 Regional Rd. 21, Port Perry, ON

Over 30 different types of fruit and vegetables are grown at this Durham region farm and starting soon, your family will be able to take a wagon ride to the farm’s strawberry fields to pick your own fruit. Tons of other produce, including cantaloupe, watermelons, and cucumbers, can be purchased at the farm’s store where there’s also a bakery, butcher (Willowtree raises its own cattle and sheep) and farm-produced maple syrup. And while this farm doesn’t have a giant play yard, it does feature animal experiences that include goats, pigs and depending on the time of year, bunnies, and birds. Important note: No need to bring a container to this farm; they’ll supply you with what you need.

Wilmot Orchards
3337 Concession Rd. 3, Newcastle, ON

Here there’s only one berry that matters: The blueberry. Wilmot’s pick-your-own fields offer nine different types of blueberries, which your family must harvest using one of Wilmot’s 11 GTA And Area Pick Your Own Farms provided containers, available in three different sizes. After you’ve filled your containers, stop by the AppleBerries Café where your family can enjoy some homemade blueberry ice cream and a variety of other treats (many containing blueberries), including jams, salsa and even mustard.

Lovely Gift Ideas for Teachers in Vancouver - SavvyMom

Lovely Local Gifts for Teachers in Vancouver

It’s nearly that time of year: school will soon be out in BC with two long months of summer ahead. As kids start to clean out their desks and lockers, and schools prepare to shut down the classrooms for the year, many parents are thinking about gifts for their children’s teachers or other school staff. Here’s some ideas for locally sourced, unique gifts for your favourite educators.

Local Gift Ideas for Teachers in Vancouver

Yummy Treats

How about a gift of food? From snacks to spices, desserts to tea, there’s plenty of options. Granville Island Delivery Company offers gourmet food baskets of all kinds, along with options for self care and wellness products, and home gifts. Check out Green & Green Gifts with Flair for a wide option of food gift baskets (including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options). This store also has baskets with an Indigenous designed products. Or head to your local Purdy’s store: this Vancouver-based chocolate company has made it extra easy, with a section on their website dedicated specifically to teacher gifts.

Crafty Supplies

We all know that teachers stock their own classrooms with supplies, crafts and more – so why not give them a hand with a gift card or cash towards some crafting materials for the coming year. Check out Urban Source, which bills itself as the alternative art materials supplier – they have material that might otherwise have been destined for the garbage, such as leftover paper cuts from printing presses. It’s full of unique stuff that will be sure to get the imagination flowing. Opus Art Supplies has locations around the Vancouver region and offers gift cards in store for supplies from the entry-level to the high-end for artists of all ages. And, of course, there’s the go-to big box craft store: check out Michael’s for a wide variety of supplies.

Literary Love

What would a classroom be without books? Many teachers carefully curate and build their own library collections with their own funds. A gift of a few new-to-the-shelves books – or better yet, a gift card so they can choose their own to avoid duplication – can make a great gift. Check out Kidsbooks, which has a location in both Vancouver and North Vancouver. They are one of the longest-running children’s book-focused stores in Canada. If you’re in New Westminster or surrounding neighbourhoods, head down to Kinder Books in River Market at the Quay. This shop has been open for more than ten years now, offering a carefully selected stock of books focusing on diverse and inclusive titles. Chapters/Indigo is an easy option for purchasing a gift card online.

Take a Break

Why not encourage your favourite teacher to chill out this summer with a gift they can enjoy later, like tickets to a film of their choice? Gift cards are available at all major theatre companies. Check out Cineplex Canada, Landmark Cinemas, Hollywood 3 and the Rio Theatre for a mix of mainstream and independent cinema.

Coffee and Tea, Please

There are plenty of great local options for both specialty coffee and tea in the region. In New Westminster, check out Great Wall Tea in River Market. Head to Granville Island Market for the Granville Island Tea Company. And over in East Van, check out the East Van Tea Company. For coffee lovers, check out Revolver Coffee in Gastown, Luna Coffee out in Langley, and for to-the-door delivery, head to Pallet Coffee Roasters in Vancouver.

Whatever you choose, remember it needn’t be fancy – and a thoughtful word of thanks in a card or letter is always a kind and valuable touch.

Teacher Gifts from Toronto Businesses - SavvyMom

Thoughtful Teacher Gifts from Toronto Businesses

Teacher gifts feel like a struggle every year. Ask any teacher what they want as a year-end gift and you’re likely to be told, “I don’t expect anything,” or, “A homemade card is all I need.” But then, maybe with some poking and prodding, they might say something like a gift card they can use to stock their classroom, perhaps to Dollarama or Indigo.

And that’s a perfectly understandable and reasonable request. But, if you want to give your kid’s teacher something a little more personal, or something that’s more for the teacher than their class, check out our list of teacher gifts from Toronto below. It rounds up over a dozen local Toronto stores and businesses where you just might find the perfect gift that says, “Thanks for teaching my child!”

Ideas for Thoughtful Teacher Gifts from Toronto

August Kinn

Walk through the first floor of this shop, past all baby and little kid stuff, and down the stairs to a space filled with fantastic gifts, many of which are designed to induce relaxation. Options include luxurious body butters and sugar scrubs from LoveFresh, relaxing bath soak from K’Pure Natural Body Care, and fragrant soy candles from a variety of small brands. August Kinn is located at 1374 Danforth Avenue.

Cocktail Emporium

If you know that your kid’s teacher enjoys a strong drink (or maybe just pretty glass wear), stop by Cocktail Emporium. It stocks everything from tiki-themed mugs to bar tools to non-alcoholic cocktail ingredients like cherries and flavoured syrups that even teetotalers will enjoy. Cocktail Emporium has three physical locations, at 20 Kensington Market, 972 West Queen West, and inside Union Station. It also offers online shopping and delivery, and gift cards.

Gardening Gear & Plants

If your kid’s teacher has a green thumb, you’re sure to find something for them at the Evergreen Garden Market, located inside the Brick Works. There you’ll find plants, gardening décor and equipment, and a nice variety of gift-y, non-gardening gear. Or grab something for teacher while you pick up groceries at Fiesta Farms, found at 200 Christie Street. This beloved grocery store is also home to a well-stocked plant nursery that sells all the essentials as well as some pretty hanging baskets and other floral arrangements.

Chocolate & Other Sweets

Is your kid’s teacher a bit of a mystery to you but your kid has spotted them nibbling on the occasional chocolate bar or other sweet? Food, and in particular, pretty chocolates, are usually a safe bet (worse comes to worse, the recipient can always re-gift them). Mary Brigadeiro makes some of the loveliest (and tastiest) chocolates in the city. Located at 1912 Danforth Avenue, this shop specializes in made-on-site Brigadeiroes, a traditional Brazilian dessert than comes in over a dozen flavours. Also available are chocolate bars, drinking chocolate, and even a do-it-yourself Brigadeiro kit.

Or consider a gift of classic Belgian chocolate. De Meersman Chocolate, at 820 Yonge Street, sells handmade treats made from the highest quality cacao. Bars, truffles, and fancy items from across Europe are all available here. Both spots will gladly put together an assorted box of treats that are sure to wow.

Gift Certificate for Live Entertainment

Is your kid’s class doing a group gift, where a bunch of families pool funds together to get a bigger present? If yes, and if you’re struggling with what to spend all that money on, consider a gift card to a live show or theatrical production. A gift certificate to Mirvish is usually a safe bet but options to consider for live theatre include Soulpepper in the Distillery District and Crow’s Theatre, at 345 Carlaw Avenue.

If you think teacher would prefer live music or comedy, grab a gift card that’s valid for both Massey Hall and Roy Thomson Hall, which are respectively located at 178 Victoria Street and 60 Simcoe Street, and offer a wide range of programming.

Hanji Gifts

Shops don’t get much more adorable than Hanji Gifts. While it’s best known for its stunning cards and stationery, Hanji also sells a variety of teacher-gift appropriate items including planners, magnets, and fancy pens and pencils. Or if you have a good sense of your kid’s teacher’s style, grab them one of the beautiful scarves or other accessories that Hanji offers. Hanji Gifts offers online shopping or stop by one of its two locations, one at 619 Bloor Street West and another at 940 Queen Street West.

Independent Bookstores

It’s probably a safe assumption that your child’s teacher loves reading. Another safe assumption? That a gift card to a bookstore will be put to good use. Toronto is also home to some fantastic independent book shops that could use your support. Type Books has a location across from Trinity Bellwoods Park as well as shops in the Junction and in Forest Hill. Type sells a wide genre of books as well as games, stationary items and even kids’ products.

If you suspect your teacher would prefer a gift card to a shop that focuses on books for children, check out Ella Minnow Children’s Book Store in the Beach, Mabel’s Fables in Davisville, or Moonbeam Books near Bloor Street West.

Liberty Village Gift Card

Does your kid’s teacher live in or near Liberty Village? Or maybe they’re the type of person who enjoys exploring the city? If yes to either question, consider grabbing them a gift card from the Liberty Village BIA. Gift cards are good for a variety of shops, services and restaurants including Big Rock Brewery and Quest XO Chocolate.

Socks from Sock Footage

Here’s a safe bet for that teacher you just don’t know very well: Socks! While you can find fun socks in a number of stores, we’re highlighting Toronto’s Sock Footage because it donates a pair of socks for every pair that you buy. All kinds of designs are available, including sports-themed, nature-themed, and some more classic styles. Sock Footage is primarily an online retailer, but it does offer curbside pick-up so that you pick up your order ASAP. Or head over to its sock vending machine at Dufferin Mall.

Spacing Store

We’ve recommended this shop before and we’re including it again because if offers some of the cutest gifts in Toronto. Located downtown at 401 Richmond Street, this shop sells all kinds of Toronto and Canadian themed products including shirts, mugs, and that item no teacher can get enough of: Tote bags. Spacing also offers a well-curated selection of books that run across such genres as graphic novel, poetry, and architecture.