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Every August, parents prepare their children for a new school year. They buy backpacks, replace shoes that no longer fit, label school supplies, and gradually settle back into routines after a summer that often looks very different from the months ahead. These are all important parts of preparing for school. As a Canadian Certified Counsellor and Certified Child Life Specialist, I've learned that children are preparing too. Their preparation just looks a little different. By

Between homework, extracurricular activities, dinner, bath time, and the inevitable request for “just five more minutes,” getting children to bed at a reasonable time can be one of the biggest challenges of the school year. But sleep isn't simply downtime. Getting enough quality sleep supports a child's learning, memory, mood, behaviour, physical development, and overall well-being. As families settle back into school routines, establishing a healthy bedtime can be just as im

The alarm buzzes, breakfast is half-eaten, someone can't find their shoes, and a backpack is sitting by the front door, still unpacked from yesterday. Sound familiar? For many families, the school year begins with the best intentions, but busy mornings and hectic afternoons can quickly become overwhelming. The good news is that small, consistent routines can transform stressful days into smoother ones. Children thrive on predictability and establishing healthy morning and aft

In a city as diverse and vibrant as Edmonton, food is more than nourishment, it is culture, identity, and connection. For many families within the African and Caribbean communities, access to culturally familiar food can be a challenge. The Afro-Caribbean Food Bank is working to change that by creating a space where food security meets cultural dignity. Founded to address food insecurity while honoring cultural needs, the Afro-Caribbean Food Bank provides essential groceries

With changing routines and more time outdoors, summer is the perfect opportunity to reset and build healthy eating habits for the whole family. Children tend to be more active in the summer months, which means their bodies need consistent fuel to keep up. Instead of focusing on rigid meal plans, aim for balance, variety, and flexibility. Start by embracing seasonal foods. Fresh fruits and vegetables are more accessible and often more affordable during the summer. Berries, wat

As families across Canada start planning summer outings, whether it’s a trip to the airport, a day at the zoo, or simply navigating busy public spaces, there’s a small symbol that can make a big difference: the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. You may have seen it before. A green lanyard with bright yellow sunflowers. Simple, subtle, but powerful. The Sunflower is a globally recognized symbol for people with disabilities that may not be immediately visible. This can include aut

Being a modern dad often means balancing the demands of a career with the needs of your family. The expectation to show up fully in both areas can feel constant. The encouraging reality is that balance is achievable, and it begins with making intentional choices every day. Redefine Balance Work life balance is not about dividing your time evenly. It is about focusing on what matters most in each moment. There will be times when work requires more attention and others when f

As your teen journeys towards adulthood, their desire for independence and exploration of boundaries is a normal and necessary developmental stage. By establishing clear limits, parents can minimize negative risk-taking, provide a crucial sense of security, and help their teens find a healthy balance as they mature socially and emotionally. When setting these boundaries, remember that involving your teens in the rule-making process is key. This collaborative approach fosters