Ideas for Teacher Gifts in Calgary from Local Vendors

It’s hard to believe that the school year is coming to a close in just a couple of weeks. If you’re like me, you’ve left end-of-the-year teacher gifts until the last minute, and now you’re scrambling to find special teacher gifts in Calgary.

As a teacher myself, I’m often asked by friends what types of gifts teachers like to receive the most. The truth is, the most meaningful gesture a teacher can receive is a hand-written note from yourself or your child just to say thank you. If you do want to go the extra mile, here are a few suggestions of gift ideas from local YYC vendors that your child’s teacher is sure to swoon over.

Thoughtful Ideas for Teacher Gifts in Calgary

A Sweet Card From Little May Papery

As I mentioned, a note of thanks is a truly special gift that any teacher will appreciate. Putting it on an adorable card just makes it that much more memorable! Add an adorable vinyl sticker, weekly planner or notepad to take their desk drawer to the next level.

Price range: Under $11 | littlemaypapery.com

A Cake They Don’t Have to Share

There’s something kinda special about having a cake all to yourself, and Just Baked YYC has the perfect plan to make sure you get to enjoy every bite. Choose from 20 different flavours of perfectly portioned cake jars that can be stored for 2 weeks in the fridge and 6 months in the freezer (although I seriously doubt they’d last that long at my house!) Mouth watering flavours include Lemon Drop, The Chocolate Fix, 24 Carrot and Cookies Extreme. They even have a gluten free option. You may just need to order a jar or two for yourself!

Price range: Under $12 | justbakedyyc.com

A Delicious Treat from Going Nuts

Going Nuts is guaranteed to have a treat that’ll make any teacher’s mouth water. Their sweet and savoury nuts come in fun flavours like Apple Crumble Pecan, Key Lime, Salted Caramel, Butter Rum, Cajun, and Mango Chili, just to name a few. They also have chocolate, granola, and energy bites, as well as other products like salad toppers. You can find Going Nuts at Granary Road Market and Calgary Farmer’s Market, Symons Valley Ranch Market Store, Mercantile at Avenida Food Hall, Bearspaw Farmers’ Market, and your local Safeway (although Safeway has a smaller range of flavours).

Price range: Under $15 | goingnuts.ca

A Box of Chocolates from Master Chocolat

Chocolate is a quick way to any teacher’s heart (I promise!) and there’s no better chocolate maker around than Bernard Callebaut himself. The options for chocolate treats are just about endless at Master Chocolat – you can find boxes of chocolate, chocolate bars, chocolate treats like chocolate-covered gummy bears and pretzels, chocolate sauces and spreads, and even chocolate for those teachers with special dietary needs, like vegan and sugar-free. This year there are a few treats just for teachers on the menu, including 9 and 18 piece boxes of chocolates, a hollow milk chocolate apple, and a grad cap lollipop. You can find Master Chocolat at their storefronts in Marda Loop and 130, 560 – 69th Ave SW, as well as at the Calgary Farmers’ Market. Truly one of the sweetest teacher gifts in Calgary!

Price range: Under $20 | masterchocolat.com

An Oil and Vinegar Pairing from Soffrito

Olive oil and vinegar is a classic pairing, but Soffrito takes this match made in heaven to another level with delicious flavours that’ll make the perfect addition to any teacher’s charcuterie board. Think olive oil flavours like cilantro and roasted onion, Persian lime, and Tuscan herb, and balsamic vinegar choices like cranberry pear, wild blueberry, and dark chocolate and you’ll have an idea of the good stuff we’re talking about! The mini gift packs are $14 for an olive oil and balsamic vinegar pairing and are the perfect taste testing size! You can find Soffrito at their storefronts in Canyon Meadows and Mahogany, as well as at the Calgary Farmers’ Market and Granary Road Farmers’ Market.

Price range: Under $20 | soffritto.ca

Some Handcrafted Honey from the Honey Merchants

I’ve gotta be honest – I had no idea that there were so many flavours you could get honey in, and now I need to try them all! Lavender, strawberry, lemon, chocolate, cinnamon, and even hot honey are just a few of the creations you can get from The Honey Merchants online or at their next market appearance.

Price range: It’s up to you! | piejunkie.com

Something Spicy from The Silk Road Spice Merchant

If you’ve heard that your child’s teacher is a whiz in the kitchen, The Silk Road Spice Merchant has everything they’ll need to take their cooking game up a notch. From spices to dry rubs and chilli powders you won’t find anywhere else, you may just have to ask if they’ll invite you over for dinner! In addition to spices for their favourite foods, The Silk Road also has bitters and cocktail supplies to mix up the perfect summer beverage. Look for their storefront in Inglewood!

Price Range: Rubs & Spices under $10, Bitters Under $25 | silkroadspice.ca

A Tasty Summer Beverage from Hello Someday Wine

If your child’s teacher is a wine lover, I’d definitely recommend gifting a bottle of Pinot Gris, Riesling, or Cabarnet/Malbec/Merlot Blend from Hello Someday Wine. Hello Someday Wine was started by Jim and Jaime love – a husband and wife team from Calgary with a dream of owning their own winery, someday. Until then, they’ve partnered with an award-winning Okanagan wine maker to craft some seriously delicious bottles of wine, and named their brand after their someday aspirations. Check out this directory to see where you can find Hello Someday Wine locally.

Price range: Under $25 | hellosomedaywine.com

One-of-a-kind Jewelry and Pins from Wonderland YYC

Wonderland YYC makes beautiful, fun and delicate bracelets, earrings, and necklaces that pay homage to our home near the mountains. For the teacher who loves to explore, why not pick up some beautiful compass studs or a mountain peak pendant? For students in grade 6, the moon phases necklace would be the perfect memento of the sky science unit all kiddos in that grade covered this year. Wonderland also has some cute and colourful enamel pins that would look great on a backpack or jean jacket! You can find Wonderland YYC products at Granary Road Farmers’ Market and on Etsy.

Price Range: Under $30 | etsy.com

Something Artsy and Fun from 2AMIllustrations

Does your kiddo’s teacher love to decorate their laptop with fun stickers? Is their classroom a bonafide art gallery? Are they an organizational whiz? 2AMIllustration makes customized and pre-designed stickers, art prints, notepads and more that will take any teacher’s desk space to the next level of style. If you’re looking for something a little more teacher-focused, these weekly planners, agenda magnets, and teacher icon magnets are both thoughtful and cute!

Price range: Under $30 | etsy.com

A Cute Terrarium from Plant

If your kid’s teacher is a plant lover (and who isn’t these days?), they’re guaranteed to love just about anything you pick them up from Plant, located in Inglewood. The store is filled with beautiful planters, fun giftware and accessories, and, of course, a huge range of plants. There are succulents, cacti, and tropical plants just waiting to be plunked in the perfect pot or terrarium (and there are tons of gorgeous ones to choose from). If you just can’t narrow it down, there are DIY terrarium kits and gift cards to grab as well.

Price Range: Under $40| plantshop.ca

A Candle from Milk Jar Candle Co.

Who doesn’t love a delicious-smelling candle – especially when it’s a clean-burning coconut soy candle with a 50-60 hour burn time? Milk Jar makes two lines of beautiful candles – one scented with plant-based essential oils and the other with phthalate-free fragrance oils. These candles are a great alternative to traditional paraffin wax candles and they smell incredible. As an added bonus, $1 from the sale of every product is donated to a non-profit supporting children with disabilities in Alberta. Check out this map to find a Milk Jar Candle Co. stockist near you.

Price range: Under $40 | milkjar.ca

The Perfect Teacher Tee

Show your kid’s teacher just how cool you think they are with a statement tee from Perfectly Imperfect Designs. These super soft, cotton-poly blend T-shirts come in unisex sizing from XS to XXL, meaning there’s a fit to flatter just about everyone since they can be worn long, tucked or knotted. There are all kinds of fun designs to choose from, but we think any teacher would be proud to wear the “Teaching Is A Work of Heart” or “Rainbow Teacher” graphics.

Price range: Under $40 | perfectlyimperfectdesigns.ca

A Super Sweet Classroom Goal Tracker from Grow & Co.

If your child’s teacher uses a point system to help the class reach their goals, Grow & Co. has a range of adorable class stars container. You can add a magnet (to stick on the class whiteboard) or a stand, choose the regular size (holds 20 stars) or the XL size (holds 50 stars), and customize the frame color and wording if you’d like. There are a variety of styles of goal keepers to check out, with fun tokens of different colors and shapes! Grow & Co. also makes adorable customized desk signs, teacher magnets, card keepers, bookmarks and more.

Price range: Under $45 | growandcompany.com

A Gift Card to a Local Coffee Shop

It’s no secret that many teachers are connoisseurs of coffee, so why not treat your kiddo’s to a gift card from a local shop they may not have tried before? There are many amazing roasters based out of Calgary. Some of my personal favourite cute coffee shop stops are Analog, Higher Ground Cafe, Neighbour Coffee, Monogram, Our Daily Brett, Phil and Sebastian , and Rosso Coffee Roasters. Many of these spots aren’t just known for their incredible cups of joe – they may also have delicious sandwiches, soups, snacks, and more.

Price range: It’s up to you!

A Pie Junkie Gift Card

If you’re not sure whether your kiddo’s teacher prefers a snack that’s savoury or sweet, let them choose (and maybe even get the best of both worlds) with a gift card from Pie Junkie. They’ve got 8 different sweet pie flavours, including flapper pie, rhubarb and chocolate peanut butter, ice cream pies with flavours like banana split brownie, and pot pie delights like steak and mushroom, butter chicken and shepherd’s pie, which come in individual portion sizes that are perfect for heating up for a school lunch!

Price range: It’s up to you! | piejunkie.com

Have you started thinking about ideas for teacher gifts in Calgary this year? We’d love to hear about your plans and favourite makers in the comments!

Teacher Gift Ideas from Local Ottawa Businesses

The school year is coming to an end, and it’s time to celebrate the incredible teachers, educational assistants, office staff, and bus drivers who have made a lasting impact on our children’s lives this year. We’ve put together exciting teacher gift ideas in Ottawa so you can share a special something with the school team in your life to say THANKS! They’ve inspired, educated, and nurtured young minds, and now it’s our turn to show our appreciation.

Thoughtful Ottawa Teacher Gift Ideas

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Themed Gift Baskets

Let’s get creative with themed gift baskets! You can assemble a “Relax and Unwind” basket with bath bombs, scented candles, and a cozy blanket for those well-deserved moments of self-care. Or how about a “Caffeine Lover’s” basket with an assortment of local coffee beans, a cute mug, and a gift card to a nearby café? Cafe Latte Cino in Orleans always has a great selection of caffeine and special gifts that would make a great gift basket come together. Tailor the theme to match their interests and watch their faces light up with joy!

DIY Classroom Décor

Get the whole class involved in creating a special DIY classroom décor gift! Have each student contribute a personalized art piece, such as a painted canvas or a decorated picture frame. When combined, these heartfelt creations will transform their classroom into a colorful and joyful space, reminding the teacher of the love and appreciation they receive from their students.

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Local Specialty Food Basket

Delight teachers with a basket of local gourmet treats like chocolates, teas, or coffee. Supporting local food producers adds a personal touch to the gift. Whether it’s fresh produce and baked treats from the local farmers market, sourced local honey and sweets, or local cheese with crackers and nuts there is something for all food lovers.

Donation to a Classroom Project

Instead of a traditional gift, donate to a specific classroom project or initiative. It supports the teacher’s vision and enhances the educational experience for students. Work with the teacher to identify a project and contribute to its success with materials, items and sourcing the materials needed. Even better if it’s a project that can live on for years to come!

For the Love of Books

Books are a timeless gift that can inspire and expand a teacher’s knowledge. Consider giving a book related to the teacher’s subject of expertise or a popular novel. You can also inquire about the teacher’s reading preferences and choose a book accordingly. Supporting local bookstores is an excellent way to contribute to the community. Check out Singing Pebble Books, Books on Beechwood, or Black Squirrel Books.

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Local Art or Craftwork

Support local artisans by gifting a unique piece of local art or craftwork. Look for paintings, pottery, or sculptures that showcase the beauty of your region. This not only provides a beautiful gift but also supports the local economy and fosters a sense of community. Check out Maker House Company, Mini Tipi and The Village Quire for a variety of handmade and local gifts.

Gift an Experience

When it comes to end-of-school-year teacher gifts, experience gifts are a fantastic option as they provide lasting memories. A group gift, such as tickets to a Cirque du Soleil show, is an excellent choice as it allows the entire class to contribute and shows appreciation for the teacher’s hard work. Corteo will be in Ottawa June 28th – July 2nd. Have a parent to take the lead on this one and set up an account to send the money to (you can make it a specific amount or suggested donation) and gift an exciting experience to your favourite staff member!

Feeding a Crowd Without Going Crazy

More really is merrier when it comes to meals, but that isn’t to say that feeding a crowd won’t cause you to feel a little crazy at times. Fortunately, we have a few strategies to help you control that chaos that comes with having many mouths to feed. These ideas include some of the best party food ideas for large groups and are practical, do-able, and ensure there will be enough food to go around (while also allowing you to spend a majority of your time hanging with your guests instead of standing stoveside).

Tips for Feeding a Crowd Without Going Crazy

Form a Battle Plan, Early

My regular Sunday ritual involves pulling out cookbooks, opening saved online recipes, and reaching for the notebook where I always have three lists on the go: meals to make Monday through Thursday, fun food ideas for the weekend, and a shopping list for the farmers’ market, grocery store, and Costco. I keep up the same practice throughout the summer and use this time to plan what I’m going to cook for any expected guests who may be stopping by for a weeknight dinner or crashing at my place for a few days over the weekend.

Make Ahead, Make Ahead, Make Ahead

I’m no stranger to having a lot of mouths around my table, but unlike an ordinary Friday when I don’t mind spending time in the kitchen cooking for my kids and their friends, I don’t want to be standing over the stove (or grill) the entire time my guests are around. Instead, I prefer to spend as much time with them as possible, while still feeding everyone really well.

The easiest way to do this is to prep a few things in advance so that meal-making is really more like meal assembling. The more cooking you can do in the days leading up to your guests’ arrival, the happier you’ll be.

Salad dressings and sauces can be made a few days ahead of time. Braised meats, baked beans and soups usually taste better on the second or third day, and our chicken enchiladas are a must-make as they can be frozen weeks in advance. Twice-baked potatoes are a crowd-pleasing side that can be frozen until needed. Fruit can be cut up, cookie dough balls prepped and scones placed in the freezer for easy baking.

Big Batch and/or Store-Bought Desserts

When it comes to making desserts, choose something that scales up well. Look for a recipe that can be made in a sheet pan or 9 x 13-inch casserole dish so you’re sure to have enough to feed your crowd. Seasonal cobblers and crisps work really well, as do slab pies and sheet pan treats. Alternatively, you can purchase oversized store-bought ice cream sandwiches to pass out to everyone, adults included (we just did this and it was a massive hit). If your budget is a little more generous, you can hire an ice cream truck to show up in your driveway at the end of dinner, providing both dessert and some easy entertainment.

Side note: I’ve been to a party where this was done and the cost was (surprisingly) not nearly as much as you would expect.

The DIY Anything Bar

Long-time readers know I’m a H-U-G-E fan of any DIY-type of an event when hosting a get-together. It can be a taco bar, burger bar, sandwich bar, cold spring roll bar, bagel bar, or bruschetta bar. Setting out the components and letting your guests help themselves is fun, interactive, and it works well for picky eaters and those with dietary restrictions. Plus, from the host’s point of view, it couldn’t be easier to execute. If you have guests staying for a few days, be sure to include at least one of these types of meals in your planning.

Let People Pitch In

When feeding a crowd, this strategy that uses the most common sense but is often the hardest to execute. But I promise you will never regret asking people to pitch in for a meal. I like to take care of the main meat or course and ask guests to supplement with the salads and sides, but if you prefer to have more control over the full meal, ask your friends to bring a bottle of wine or a dessert. Easy peasy for all involved!

Appetizers: Remember the KISS Rule

When it comes to appetizers, don’t forget to Keep it Simple, Silly! Cheese and crackers or veggies and dip are nice but not always heat-friendly. Instead opt for chips, cheese puffs, nuts, olives, and maybe a bowl of French radishes with a side of butter and sea salt. For our happy hours, I love nothing more than to serve glasses of cold rosé alongside a bowl or two of potato chips and usually opt for something a little more gourmet (kettle chips) in an interesting flavour. No one is ever disappointed in this, and really what could be easier?

Don’t Be a Bartender

Being a bartender is both a time consuming and expensive endeavour. Instead, if you’re serving cocktails mix up something in a big batch (sangria is a classic) and serve it in a pretty pitcher, punchbowl, or large drink dispenser alongside plenty of ice and glasses where guests can serve themselves.

The Finishing Touch

P.S. Don’t forget the cold brew! Keeping containers in the fridge will impress your guests and make coffee duty a cinch!

Tell us, do you have any tried and true tricks for hosting and feeding a crowd in the summer? We’d love to learn more about your strategies for controlling mealtime chaos!

The Savvy Guide to Father’s Day

Whether it’s your dad you want to spoil or you’re subbing in for the kids because they’re still too little to take the lead, our guide to Father’s Day is chock full of ideas for gifts, activities, and food to celebrate the special man or men in your lives.

The Savvy Guide to Father’s Day

Father’s Day Gift Ideas any Dad Will Love (Spoiler Alert: No Socks!)

No guide to Father’s Day would be complete without a gift guide or two. We’ve got a handful of great father’s day gift ideas for all different types of dads. Ties and socks need not apply.

5 Easy Father’s Day Gifts to Make Dad Feel Special

No dad would ever be disappointed to receive any of these easy Father’s Day Gifts. Let’s get these traditions started!

More Father’s Day Ideas for Cool Gifts for Dad

Big, small, modern, traditional – this round-up of cool gifts for Dad has got it all.

Father’s Day Gifts for Fit Dads

If you have an active or health-oriented guy (or one who wants to be), read on for some distinctive Father’s Day gifts for fit dads.

What Dad Really Wants this Father’s Day

This Father’s Day, from one daughter to another, show dad what he means to you and how much you appreciate things that he has done or said over the years.

Fun Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day

June’s good weather almost demands an outing or event to celebrate dad. No guide to Father’s Day would be complete without some fun ideas for ways to celebrate Father’s Day this year. Dad will surely approve!

5 Father’s Day Recipes Dad Will Love

Even if he’s not a huge foodie guy, Dad is going to love these insanely delicious recipes. Happy Father’s Day!

Dads Really Don’t Care About Father’s Day

Do Dads care about Father’s Day? Nope. Not really. Actually, maybe not at all. At least that’s the way it seems to me.

Superfoods We Love: Cherries

Cherries are literally one of my all-time favourite summer fruits. I remember as a child my mom would bring home bagfuls of them and my sister, brother, and I would sit on the back deck and eat them, one at a time, seeing who could spit the little pit out the farthest. The ones I love are slightly sweet, slightly tart, slightly tangy – but they do stain so watch out!

As I have grown older (and I like to think a little bit wiser) I have come to realize that they are not only a delicious treat (although this is still true) but they are definitely a powerful superfood we love with many health benefits. Available in Canada between May and July they are amazing straight from the farmers market but also make great additions to smoothies, baked goods, fruit salad, and more.

Here are a few of the reasons I continue my love affair with cherries.

Why cherries are so good for us:

They battle belly fat: They help reduce Fat. In. Your. Belly. Enough said.

They fight insomnia: Eating tart berries or drinking cherry juice can boost melatonin, a hormone which improves and regulates sleep patterns. So, eat or drink up and catch those zzzzzs.

They help fight muscle soreness and inflammation: Studies suggest tart cherries or cherry juice can significantly reduce muscle inflammation and soreness. Grab a handful after a tough workout and you will likely notice a difference!

They reduce risk of stroke: The anthocyanins (the powerful antioxidant that gives the tart cherries their deep red color) can help regulate fat and glucose levels and reduce risk factors for high cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes.

What to look for when buying cherries

Always look for fruits that are shiny, plump, and firm, with fresh green stems and dark colouring for their variety. Avoid any that are too soft, bruised, or that have broken skin.

How to store cherries

Keep them unwashed, and stems attached, in a bag, loosely-covered container, or loosely closed plastic bag in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use them. Rinse under cool water and gently pat dry with clean paper towels just before eating.

What to do with cherries

Eat straight from the bowl or add to smoothies, granola and yogurt, or fruit salads. Cherries are also great additions to baked goods including cakes, cookies, muffins, tarts, and pies.

Dried cherries can be tossed into salads or added to granola or trail mix.

How to Choose the Best Baby Bike Carrier

With an increasing amount of options to bring your kiddos cycling with you, it can feel overwhelming to know which child or baby bike carrier to choose. That’s why we asked Dr. Dina Kulik, pediatrician and founder of Kidcrew, for some tips for deciding which one is best for your child.

First, let’s look at the different styles of baby bike carriers on the market…

Different Styles of Baby Bicycle Carriers:

Rear Mount:

These are the traditional bike carriers that mount to your frame or rack behind you, like the Bellelli Mr Fox Standard. With a plastic molded frame, and a harness that secures your child, this style of carrier can typically support a higher weight capacity, and therefore an older child. This particular model is tested for up to 22 kg and is recommended for kids up to around 6 years of age.

Front Mount:

You’ve probably seen front mounts like the Thule Yepp Mini, which, with a molded frame and safety harness, attaches in front of you and has an anti-theft lock. These seats are typically tested to a weight capacity of around 15 kg and are approved for use by children aged 9 months to 3 years with the provision to check with your pediatrician for children under 1 year.

Active Front Mount:

An active front mount seat like the DO LITTLE is a newer style of front-mounted seat that doesn’t have a molded chair or harness – it attaches in front of you just like a regular bike seat, so your little one can feel more involved. This can also be used when mountain biking, and reviewers say it makes for a more interactive experience. This company says theirs is suitable for 18 months up to around 7 years or 27 kg.

Bike Trailer:

With single and double options, and some, like the Bell Double, advertising that they can also be pushed like a stroller, these typically have a safety harness and steel construction to create a protective barrier around riders. Some also provide a cargo area, and this type of carrier can typically hold the most weight – up to around 45 kg for this particular model. A recent study concluded that children riding in bike trailers are exposed to higher levels of air pollution than they would be higher up, so this option might be best used with a trailer cover or away from high concentrations of road traffic.

Child & Baby Bike Carrier Safety Features:

“The type of seat doesn’t matter to me as much as making sure the child is old enough to support themself in it, and always wears a helmet,” says Kulik. “According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, kids between 12 months and 4 years who can sit well unsupported and have necks strong enough to support wearing a helmet, can ride in a bike seat or trailer.”

Are there any specific age or developmental considerations?

“Many cities have their own laws about the age a child can ride on a bike with an adult. The lowest age is typically 12 months of age. I don’t recommend a child ride in any bike seat or trailer before at least 18 months of age, when they can sit unsupported and remain seated with movement of the bike,” says Kulik.

Kulik also says following the manufacturer directions is a must, and “A helmet is key! No matter what the age.”

In the event of a bike accident, is there one kind of bike carrier where a child would be more protected/less impacted?

“I am not aware of any specific safety studies, though I suspect the more they are enclosed – such as in a trailer, the safer,” says Kulik, “Though being up close to parents could offer some protection as well.”

Other considerations when choosing a child bike carrier:

If you plan to swap your carrier between bikes, look for one that is compatible with the different bikes you plan to use and simple to attach and remove.

Will you be biking over nap times? Look for a seat with a recline function like the Thule RideAlong.

If your child is going to be riding behind you in a seat or trailer, consider getting a bike mirror so you can periodically check in to make sure your little one is comfortable and happy.

Happy biking, and check out some of our favourite bike paths for families in Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary, and Vancouver!

Best Bets for Toronto Father’s Day Gifts & Fun

This year, Father’s Day falls on Sunday, June 18; are you ready for it? Okay, we know that there is a lot going on right now, with kids’ sports and year-end events and summer rapidly approaching, so we’re here to help you get ready for Toronto Father’s Day 2023.

Below we’ve rounded up a collection of Toronto and area events happening on or near Father’s Day that we think dad and the rest of your family will enjoy. And because finding the right gift — even for a beloved father—can be tricky, we’ve also included a few suggestions on presents that we think he’ll love. We hope everyone has a wonderful Father’s Day!

Toronto Father’s Day Best Bets for Gifts & Fun

Father’s Day Buffet

The Old Mill, 21 Old Mill Rd., Toronto
Thursday June 15 – Sunday June 18

Who says brunch is just for moms? One of Toronto’s best-known spots for buffets is offering something special for Father’s Day weekend. Choose from a brunch buffet that includes eggs, prime rib carving station, fried chicken and more or a dinner buffet that features leg of lamb, Beef Stroganoff, and pork ribs. Both options also come with lots of appetizers, salads and of
course desserts. Pricing starts at $25 per person. And on June 15, 16 and 17, the Old Mill will also be serving Afternoon Tea “Kings Edition,” which runs $55 per person.

Annual Yorkville Exotic Car Show

Bloor St. between Avenue Rd. and Bay St.
Sunday June 18

Car-loving dads will love this event that will see Bloor Street partially shut down and filled with some of the fanciest, prettiest, and fastest cars around including Lamborghinis, Ferraris, super cars, and more. Pose for pictures, learn what makes these cars so special and of course grab something to eat from one of the neighborhood’s many restaurants. The show is free to attend but there will be opportunities to donate to the event’s host, Melanoma Canada, an organization that supports melanoma and skin cancer patients and initiatives to prevent those diseases.

Beaches Triangle Streetfest

Dixon Ave. between Rainsford Rd. and Brooksmount Rd., Toronto
Sunday June 18

While the bouncy castles and face painting are more for the kids, we think dads will enjoy the barbecue food, bike tune-ups and the chance to win a bunch of prizes. Oh, and maybe some dads will also like the beekeeping demonstration and the chance to meet superheroes. The fun runs from 11am until 2pm but be sure to be there at 1pm for the “DADlympics,” which consists of a series of “father-friendly games.” Access to this event is free.

Father’s Day at the Eglinton Grand

Eglinton Grand, 400 Eglinton Ave. W., Toronto
Sunday June 18

Take dad out for a meal he won’t forget at the elegant and stunning Eglinton Grand. This former movie theatre turned event space will be hosting dozens of families to four delicious course that of course include dessert! Full menu details will be shared soon but we’re sure it’ll be tasty. Pricing starts at around $30 for children, and kids under three are free.

Magic Dads

The Rec Room, 100 City Centre Dr., Mississauga
Sunday June 18

Up for spending Father’s Day is Mississauga? What about if we promised the experience would be a magical one? Two of the region’s top magicians, WonderPhil and Chris Westfall, will take to the stage at this event that will feature amazing illusions, music, and lots of laughs. Two performances are scheduled, one at 1:30pm and one at 4pm, and tickets for this hour-long
performance start at $25.

Pingle’s Father’s Day BBQ & Craft Beer Experience

Pringle’s Farm, 1805 Taunton Rd., East Hampton
Sunday June 18

Want to do something with dad that’s outside of the city? Then treat him to a barbecue and beer experience at Pingle’s Farm. This afternoon event will have the adults tasting five different kinds of barbecue and five different beers while the kids enjoy the playland and pet some farm animals. And everyone can partake in wagon rides and live music. Tickets for the barbecue and beer experience cost $55 while admission for kids is $7 (kids under two are free).

Three Men and a Baby Screening

The Revue Cinema, 400 Roncesvalles Ave., Toronto
Sunday June 18

Families with school-aged children might get a laugh out of attending a screening of this classic eighties comedy that stars Tom Selleck, Steve Guttenburg, and Ted Danson as three roommates who unexpectedly find themselves with a baby. The film is rated G but keep in mind that it is from the eighties so there might be some cringey moments. The fun starts at 4pm and tickets start at $12 for kids.

Toronto Beaches Rib & Beer Fest

Woodbine Park, 1695 Queen St. E., Toronto
Friday June 16 – Sunday June 18

Here’s a tasty way to celebrate Father’s Day! Northern Heat Rib Series brings its rib and beer festival to the Beaches where it’ll be serving up delicious, award-winning barbecue; cold, refreshing beer and other beverages (including non-alcoholic options); and live music. There will also be a kids’ zone and even a dog show! Entry into the event is free but be sure to bring your credit cards so that your family can enjoy the delicious food.

Toronto Father’s Day Gift Ideas

Beer Bellwoods Brewery

126 Ossington Ave. & 20 Hafis Rd., Toronto

As one of Toronto’s best-known breweries, Bellwoods is a great spot to grab a gift for those dads that love beer. The brewery makes a wide variety of beers including pilsners, Indian pale ales and even a dark chocolate imperial stout, as well as a few non-alcoholic options. Drinks can be purchased at one of Bellwoods’ two bottle shops or ordered online for home delivery. In
addition to alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, Bellwoods also sells all kinds of merchandise including glassware, hats and even a mini-fridge bag.

Clothes from Peace Collective

Union Station, 65 Front St. West (concourse level of Front Street Promenade)
Toronto, & 7 Trinity St., Toronto

Toronto clothing brand Peace Collective will help dad look good while actively giving back⁠—every purchase made results in a donation to mental health research. Grab something from the national parks collection, get a crewneck branded with your neighbourhood, or explore the “fan shop,” which features clothing licensed by all the major sport leagues. Peace Collective has two brick-and-mortar stores as well as an online shopping option.

Something from Dickson Barbeque Centre

Three locations across the GTA

If dad is a grill enthusiast, then you’re sure to find something for him at Dickson Barbeque Centre. This place is packed with everything you need to grill (or smoke) out, as well as a few items that you don’t really need but that sure are fun to own. You could also go big and get dad a new grill (you’ll find all the top brands here in a variety of sizes and formats). Dickson also offers custom engraving on Yeti thermos, something to keep in mind for next year.

Something from Eataly

Manulife Centre, 55 Bloor St. W., Toronto

While its pizza-making-with-dad class might be full, Eataly is still a good spot to grab dad the perfect gift. Fresh pasta, delectable olive oils, and all kinds of meats, cheeses and wines are just a few of the many editable items available to wow dad. There are also kitchen gadgets, cookbooks, and more. Or check out Eataly’s event page and see if maybe there’s an upcoming class or workshop that might be the perfect gift.

Tickets to Save No Points

1 Yonge St., Toronto
Until June 26

We’re popping this suggestion down under gifts because this theatrical experience isn’t meant for young kids. But it is for anyone who enjoys video games, which we think covers more than a few dads. The show describes itself with, “Video games, theatre and memoir collide as (creator/performer Sébastien) Heins places the control(er) in the hands of the audience, entrusting them to pilot his performance using state-of-the-art motion capture and haptic technology.” Intriguing. General admission tickets run at around $62, fees included.

Calgary Father’s Day Best Bets

Father’s Day is just around the corner (on Sunday, June 19, in case you weren’t sure!) We’ve rounded up a few of the best Calgary Father’s Day events to celebrate with the all the dads in your life – even if that dad is you!

Calgary Father’s Day Fun

Take Him Out for a Meal for Father’s Day in Calgary

Your dad may be a master on the grill, but even the best chefs deserve a day off once in a while. Here are a few of our favourite places to check out for a fantastic Father’s Day meal in Calgary:

Father’s Day Dinner Buffet at Grey Eagle | greyeagleresortandcasino.ca

June 18 from 4:30 until 10:00 pm

For an unbelievable spread at a price that absolutely can’t be beat, head to Grey Eagle Resort and Casino for their incredible Father’s Day dinner buffet. For just $34.95 per person, you can load up your plate with soups, a huge variety of salads (like spinach and strawberry salad, beet salad with arugula and goat cheese, cobb salad and Thai noodle salad), shrimp cocktail, prime rib, Yorkshire pudding, crispy fried chicken, buttered corn on the cob, ginger beef, grilled pork dumplings and more! Don’t forget to save for dessert – you’ve got a huge array of pies, cakes, hot deserts, diabetic desserts and even a chocolate fountain to choose from!

Father’s Day BBQ Brunch at Flores and Pine | floresandpine.com

June 18 from 10:30 am until 4:00 pm

If your dad loves a meal fresh off of the BBQ, he won’t want to miss Flores and Pine’s all-day BBQ event on their spacious patio. Prepare to dine in style with whole roasted pig, succulent baby back ribs, and tender prime-grade beef prepared by their outdoor grill masters. Sides include BBQ staples like baked beans, coleslaw and potato salad. There’ll also be fun activities for the whole family to enjoy! Kids 12 and under are $25 and everyone else is $65.

Father’s Day Bottomless Brunch | craftbeermarket.ca

June 18 from 10 am until 3 pm

Head over to Craft Beer Market downtown for an all you can eat Father’s Day Buffet, available from 10 am until 3PM. Pricing is $34.95 per adult and $14.95 per child under 12, and includes mouthwatering brunch fare like vanilla waffles and fried chicken, bacon, sausage, eggs benedict, a live omelette station, cheese plates, pastry platters, and more. Be sure to make a reservation in advance to secure your table!

Calgary Zoo’s Father’s Day Safari Brunch Buffet | calgaryzoo.com

June 19 with 9 am, 11:30 am & 2 pm seatings

Whether you want to make a stop to say hi to the critters at the zoo, or are just in it for the buffet, Calgary Zoo and the Wilder Institute have a fantastic feast at their Safari Brunch, including everything from salads and sausage to Belgian waffles, made-to-order omelettes and a chef-attended carving station. There are three seating times to choose from, and your ticket includes zoo admission. Prices are $54.95 for adults 16-59, $49.95 for seniors 60 and over, and $34.95 of kids between 3 and 15. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are selling out quickly!

Father’s Day Brunch at Delta Calgary South Hotel | eventbrite.com

June 19 from 9:30 am until 1:30 pm

Delta Calgary South Hotel is hosting a Father’s Day Brunch in their Atrium Commons that you won’t want to miss. Their huge selection of buffet items includes both breakfast and lunch fare, like eggs Benedict, a tater tots bar, chicken and waffles, slow cooked brisket, truffle mac and cheese, and more. There are even charcuterie selections, and maybe most important of all, dessert! Prices are $70 for adults, $60 for seniors 65 and over, $25 for kids 7-12 and free for kids 5 and under. Call 403-278-5050 to reserve your table!

Take Him Out for a Meal with a Twist

Having a delicious meal together is great, but why not kick things up a notch with an activity to round out the experience? If you’ve got a dad who loves cars or golf, you’ve gotta check out some of these awesome Father’s Day offerings.

Father’s Day Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin Competition at Schank’s | schanks.com

June 18 from 1 pm until 5 pm

Tell dad to bring his best golf swing and a big appetite to Schank’s on June 18th where he can put his skills to the test! Try your luck at hitting the longest drive and getting the ball as close as possible to the pin, and then whet your appetite with $0.49 chicken wings, half-priced poutine and burgers at $5 off! If golf isn’t your dad’s thing, be sure to check out their arcade games at half price!

Father’s Day Mini Golf and BBQ At Granary Road | granaryroad.com

June 18

Does your dad love to hit the links? Sure, a round on the regular course is fun, but why not test his skills on the mini golf course in a shotgun style mini golf tournament that the whole family can compete in? A $25.95 ticket gets you entry to the Active Learning Park, the mini golf competition, and your choice of a beef or veggie burger and beverage provided by Homestead Bakery and Cafe. Be sure to come with your best dad joke in your pocket – the best one wins a prize! When you’re done, be sure to check out the vendors in the Farmer’s Market for some extra-special Father’s Day treats!

BBQ & Beer at Shoe & Canoe | opentable.com

June 18 at 12 pm

The barbecue is on at Shoe & Canoe’s beautiful rooftop Stargazer patio! In addition to a drool-worthy buffet of items like Korean BBQ chicken, pork ribs with Stargazer BBQ sauce and sides like jalapeno mac and cheese, cheddar biscuits and bacon scallop potatoes, your ticket gets you two pints of local craft beer and a “Stargazer” beer stein for dad. Work up your appetite playing patio games like mini putt, corn hole and ladder golf while listening to some awesome live music in the sunshine. Tickets are $59 per person. Be sure to reserve your spot ahead of time!

Check Out a Fun Event Together

Looking to get out and do something together with dad this Father’s Day? Here are a couple of fun options!

9th Annual Wings and Wheels Event | thehangarmuseum.ca

June 17 – 18 from 10 am – 4 pm

If your dad is a flight fanatic or a car connoisseur (or maybe a bit of both), he’ll be wheels over wings for the Hangar Flight Museum’s 9th annual Wings and Wheels Event. Each year, the museum partners with local car clubs to bring in special cars to view and explore along with their collection of planes. During your visit, tour the inside of a selection of aircraft, try out some crafts, and check out the vehicle show and shine. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door – dad gets in free!

Father’s Day Fun at Calgary Farmer’s Market | calgaryfarmersmarket.ca

June 17 and 18 from 9 am – 5 pm

Both locations (South and West) of the Calgary Farmer’s Market are bringing on the Father’s Day fun! At CFM South, enjoy a motorcycle show from 9 am til 1 pm with bikes by Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club. Grab a beverage at the outdoor bar by Sips between 11 am and 5 pm, and enjoy live music by Ty Marshall Deer from 12 pm until 3 pm. Over at CFM West, head to the Kids Craft Corner between 9 am and 7 pm on Saturday and 9 am and 5 pm on Sunday.

How will you be celebrating Father’s Day in Calgary in 2023? We’d love to hear your ideas and suggestions in the comments!

Ottawa Father’s Day Gifts, Activities, and Food Suggestions

Celebrate Father’s Day in Ottawa with a range of great gifts and memorable experiences tailored for that special father figure in your life. From local brewery tours and outdoor adventures to spa packages and personalized gifts, Ottawa offers a plethora of options to make this special day truly exceptional. Whether your father is a sports enthusiast, a food lover, an outdoor adventurer, or simply in need of relaxation, Ottawa has something to suit every taste and interest.

Explore the vibrant culinary scene, immerse in the city’s natural beauty, or indulge in unique local experiences to show your dad just how much he means to you.

Best Best for Ottawa Father’s Day Gifts & Activities

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Local Brewery or Distillery Tour

The Ottawa area has several breweries and distilleries that offer tours and tastings. Invite dad out to enjoy the craft beer or spirits scene in the National Capital Region and enjoy some tasting along the way! Enjoy Beyond the Pale Brewing Company in the centre of Ottawa, Dominion City Brewing Co in the east end, Tooth & Nail Brewing Company in Hintonburg, Kichesippi Beer Co in the west end or head over to Chelsea to the brand new Brasseurs des Collines. This is just a few of the many options in the Ottawa area. Looking for some spirit options? North of 7 Distillery, Artist in Residence Distillery and AiR Distillery Quebec are all great options in the Ottawa/Gatineau region.

Outdoor Adventure

Ottawa is surrounded by beautiful nature and outdoor recreational areas. Consider organizing a hiking trip through Gatineau Park or white water rafting with Wilderness Tours. Or head to Camp Fortune for some mountain biking followed by a zip line from peak to peak mountain with a 50 foot free fall jump at the end (tethered of course!)

Golfing Experience

If your dad is a golf enthusiast, treat him to a round of golf at one of Ottawa’s many golf courses. You can book a tee time at a scenic course and maybe even join him for a friendly game. Larrimac Golf & Tennis Club in Chelsea will give you a quick but scenic journey of 9 holes, The Marshes Golf Club in Kanata is one of Ottawa’s most popular public golf courses and Pineview gives you multiple course options on site.

Spa or Wellness Package

Give your dad the gift of relaxation and self-care this Father’s Day in Ottawa with a spa or wellness package. Many spas in Ottawa offer massages, facials, and other treatments tailored for men. Want to make it a parent and child day out? Le Nordik is having a kids spa day on June 28th where children ages 8+ can join a parent for a day of pampering. Bode Spa has lots of wellness packages for men or book some time at ISO spa to float away.

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Sports Event Tickets

If your dad is a sports fan, check if there are any Ottawa sports events happening around Father’s Day. Get him tickets to an Ottawa Black Jacks game, Ottawa Redblacks football, Atletico Ottawa soccer game or Ottawa Titans baseball game to enjoy a thrilling live sports experience.

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Cooking Class

If your dad enjoys cooking or wants to learn new culinary skills, book a cooking class for him. Many cooking schools and culinary centers in Ottawa offer classes for various cuisines and cooking techniques. The Urban Element in Hintonburg offers a variety of in person cooking classes as well as C’est Bon Ottawa in the Byward Market.

Outdoor Concert or Music Festival

Love live music? Consider purchasing tickets to Ottawa Bluestfest, Ottawa JazzFest and / or City Folk. These festivals have options for single day tickets, multi day, or full festival passes.

Get ready to make Father’s Day in Ottawa an absolute blast! With a wide array of playful and exciting options like local breweries, outdoor adventures, and rejuvenating spa experiences, this city is the perfect playground for celebrating all the father figures in our life. Embrace the vibrant culture, stunning nature, and delicious food scene to create unforgettable memories that will have your dad grinning ear to ear.

14 Low-Stress, Fun Ways to Stave Off Summer Learning Loss

Throughout the summer, it’s important to keep the learning momentum going. Especially through this break, whether or not your child made strides or struggled. It’s important to stay on top of the summer learning loss.

Continuing to learn during the summer can help your child retain the school-year progress, improve confidence, and (hopefully) alleviate frustration and stress in September.

If your child isn’t overly motivated in school or struggles to focus, this may sound like an impossible feat. But learning doesn’t have to mean sitting at a desk completing worksheets. Instead, it can be disguised as fun activities that your child may actually (gulp) enjoy!

I have brainstormed some great activities to keep your child motivated all summer long. These activities cover all curriculum areas from kindergarten to grade 3 and can be revised to suit all ages and learning levels.

14 Ways to Stave Off Summer Learning Loss…

1. Lemonade Stand, Bake Sale, or Yard Sale

Have your child organize a lemonade stand, bake sale, or yard sale. They can choose the date (and count down on a calendar), design the advertisement posters (choosing the font, colours, and words to attract customers), and choose the pricing for the products. On the day of the event, have them take the money, count the change back and add up the profits.

2. Art Show

Have your child organize an art show with some friends. They can create their own artwork and put it on display. They can then choose the date, the price for each piece, and where the money should go (a great idea would be to have a percentage go to a charity). They will also make decisions about how the art will be displayed (on a clothesline outside, hanging off trees, lying on a table).

3. Animal Shelter

Volunteer at a nature centre or an animal shelter where your child could learn about different animal groups.

4. Sports Game

Go to a sports game and teach your child how to keep score. If your child is a fan of a team or specific player, have them design their own player card or a big sign (with a slogan) that you can bring to the game.

5. Mini Golf

You could play mini golf and teach your child how to keep score. This is great practice if they are learning about negative numbers. We have some wonderful mini golf courses in Canada.

6. Make Sandcastles

Go to the beach and challenge your child to make a sandcastle with specific dimensions (use area/perimeter) or different shapes, such as pentagons or parallelograms.

7. Build a Cardboard Fort

On a rainy day, have your child create and design a fort out of cardboard boxes at home with similar specifications.

8. Photo Journals

If you go on a trip together, encourage your child to make a photo journal or illustrate their own book about your journey. You can even publish it yourself into a hardcover book.

9. Gardening

Plant a garden of herbs, vegetables and/or plants. Read together about the care instructions for each and record the growth progress through a line or bar graph together.

10. Bilingual Weather

You could discuss the daily weather together in two languages (using pictures with matching words displayed on the fridge) and/or record the daily temperature in both languages. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, graph the temperatures on a line or bar graph together and discuss the hottest/coldest days.

11. Game Night

Make it a weekly ritual to turn off all technology for a couple hours to have a family game night with educational games that promote counting money and critical thinking, such as Candy Land, Charades or Pictionary.

12. Scavenger Hunt

Create an A to Z nature scavenger hunt to help your child become more aware of their surroundings. They can look around for items starting with each letter. For visual learners, it may be helpful to arrange the alphabet letters on the ground and have your child place (or point at) the items beside each letter. Depending on the items, you may want to encourage your child to use a camera to take pictures of the items and leave nature in its place.

You can also try to find some other list items, like: something green, something fuzzy, two kinds of leaves, something you think is beautiful. Or, have older children make their own scavenger hunt for the adults.

13. Read Out Loud

Read a book with, or to, your child (depending on their reading level) every evening for at least 20 minutes. Here are some ways to spice up reading time: take turns reading each line using a variety of voices (act like you have a cold, you’re an opera singer, you’re underwater, etc); use shadow reading (read a line, then have your child repeat it); choose a word that’s used often in the text as the “magic” word, and every time it’s read, your child has to get up and clap, jump, etc. Using these strategies will make reading fun by keeping your child engaged while also practicing their fluency.

14. Recipe Creation

Cook or bake a meal together using a recipe (you may want to start with a smoothie). Have your child read the recipe and write a grocery list. You can incorporate math (by using fractions and doubling the recipe), estimation (by asking your child to estimate the cost of the items at the checkout), or budgeting/counting money.

These are just some of the many ways you can bring learning home and make it fun. If you’re at all concerned about your child’s summer learning loss, or are interested in creating a structured plan, I suggest contacting an education professional who knows the curriculum and can create a learning plan to keep your child on track. They can extend this list and think of other fun ways to keep your child’s mind active this break and ready for the transition into the next school year.