Calgary: The Savvy Guide to June

It’s June, it’s hot and we’re happy about it. Here are some surefire ways to make the most out of this lovely summer month.

DO
Clean your Q
Why? Because there can be lots of greasy build-up on (and under) your grill that’s just plain dirty, and research suggests that charred food particles may contain cancer-causing agents (and we don’t like to take chances).

GO
To the Calgary Greek Festival on June 11–13 at the Calgary Hellenic Society Community Hall, just west of Shaganappi Golf Course.
Why? Because it’s something different, and the food is delicious, the dancing is totally entertaining and the kids’ extras (think bouncers and games) make it fun for all. You can find a festival menu and schedule on the Hellenic Community of Calgary website.

GET
Ramp up on sun safety and stock up on sunscreens. Keep some in your bag, in the front-hall basket and in the bathroom.
Why? Because it’s going to be a hot and sunny summer, according to all the reports. We want to keep our kids and our skin safe.

PLAY
Campfire games and activities in the comfort of your own home, such as a sing-a-long, group storytelling or charades—or just make some s’mores.
Why? Because although they are a Canadian outdoor tradition, they are just too good to leave outside.

READ
Because Your Daddy Loves You, by Andrew Clements
Why? Because it’s the perfect Father’s Day book to get for your beloved, and it captures the essence of a father/child relationship perfectly and sweetly. Make sure you get the kids to sign the inside for posterity.

APP IT
My Smart Hands Baby Sign-Language Dictionary
Why? Because it comes with a video dictionary that shows you over 300 ASL signs, explains how to do them and it helps you communicate with your baby.

SURF
www.babiesgo.ca
Why? It’s a great site that was started by a dad entrepreneur who wanted to listen to baby music that he liked, so he made our favourite musical artists baby friendly—from AC/DC to Coldplay, to ABBA, to Aerosmith—he has the nursery room version ready to download.

GREEN IT
Return your disposable plant pots to any Loblaws or Real Canadian Superstore (or any store that sells PC products) to be recycled. They’ll take any leftover plant and flower pots, even if they aren’t from Loblaws.
Why? Because while we work hard to make our world (and gardens) beautiful, we don’t want to destroy it with plastic in the process.

HELP
Nominate a child for the 2010 Great Kids Award. The awards are granted to children between the ages of 5–18 who have made an outstanding contribution at home, school or in the community.
Why? Because it encourages your children to contribute to the world around them by recognizing excellence in others and rewarding vision, leadership and hard work.