Calgary: The Savvy Guide to April

April is all about celebrating spring and rebirth. Whether it’s chocolate or Mother Earth you’re into, we’ve got some ideas to help you embrace all that April brings. 

DO
Round up your friends and neighbours to coordinate a neighbourhood cleanup for Earth Day
Why? Because if we want to enjoy the great outdoors we all need to play a role in preserving and maintaining it. It’s not a bad example for your kids either. 

GO
To the Mom, Tot & Kids Show on April 1 at the BMO Centre in Stampede Park
Why? Aside from getting in some spring shopping, there’s fun entertainment for the whole family, including special guests Thomas & Friends and Angelina the Ballerina.

GET
A junior gardening set, a good front door mat, some self-tanning cream and a pedicure
Why? So the kids can help in the garden; your front hall doesn’t get covered in mud from those April showers; your white winter legs are ready for capris and your feet are ready for flip flops.

PLAY
In the kitchen and make some coloured eggs
Why? Because it’s a fun activity to do with the kids but make sure you follow these simple tips that will make everything go smoothly. 

READ
The Country Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes by Du Bose Heyward
Why? Because this beautiful tale of the country bunny who attains the position of Easter Bunny, despite her responsibilities as mother to 21 children, teaches kids that you can do anything if you set your mind to it. And it’s quite simply the best Easter book on the shelf.

SURF
National Geographic Kids
Why? Because your kids can play games while learning more about the world they live in. The more they know, the more they’ll care.

APP IT
The Light Bulb Finder
Why? Because it’s a great way to ‘green’ the lights in your house, helping you to switch from conventional light bulbs to energy-saving equivalents and easily find the right fit, style and light quality you need.

GREEN IT
Use eggshells to start planting seeds early
Why? Because eggshells are the quintessential symbol of spring and they’re perfect for planting seeds before the ground is ready. Poke a hole at the bottom for drainage and place the shell in an egg cup or old egg carton. Fill with soil and seeds then wait. Plant small leaves like chives and wheat grass, then transfer the whole thing into the garden—shell included (they’re naturally biodegradable).

MAKE IT
A Photo Flower Spring Bouquet
Why? Because spring is all about flowers. This simple bouquet is a great craft for kids to make as a personalized Easter present—and lasts much longer than those fresh flowers you were thinking of sending to Grandma.

HELP
ECHOage your next birthday party
Why? Because everyone is tired of the wasteful birthday toys that end up in the landfill. ECHOage is an online birthday party service that teaches children the value of giving, to the charity selected by your child.

DEAL IT
Receive 25% off all kids’ and babies’ items from well.ca—including diapers, wipes, sunscreen and more—using code SAVVYMOM until March 31
Why? Because buying those everyday kid and baby items can really add up—and the shipping is free, so why not? Spread the word.