Toronto: The Savvy Guide to April

Eggs are, without a doubt, the pre-eminent symbol of April (preferably chocolate ones), so this month we’re celebrating fertility, chocolate and Mother Earth. You see the connections? We’re looking to eat chocolate and to keep our earth as fertile as we can by protecting it. Here’s how:

DO
Plant a sunflower seed in a pot.
Why? Because they sprout easily indoors and then you can move it outside when the weather gets warmer. The kids will love watching it grow and they’ll be amazed at how big it gets.

GO
To the 2010 One of a Kind Spring Show and Sale at the Direct Energy Centre on Thursday, April 1, from 10 am to 3 pm.
Why? Because SavvyMoms get an exclusive $2 off at the door and free entry to the Club Membership Lounge, where they can enjoy refreshments and enter for a chance to win a ‘Girls’ Day Out’ package to the next One of a Kind Show. Print out this coupon and take it with you. Don’t miss a special appearance by SavvyMom.ca founders, Sarah Morgenstern and Minnow Hamilton, who will take centre stage at 11 am to unveil their Top 10 List for Baby and Mom, featuring hand-picked products from a broad assortment of fashion, beauty, home and food creations by Canadian artisans at the One of a Kind Show. The first 100 guests that day will receive a reusable shopping bag. Did we mention there is free childcare at the One of a Kind Show, not to mention great gifts to be had?

GET
Some cool rain boots for you and the kids.
Why? Because puddle splashing makes rainy days so much more fun, and the only way to do so is in style. We found these fab Tretorn Skerry splashers for the kids online at one of our fave shoe stores, Getoutside. They have tons of options for Mom and Dad too, with every colour and style of Hunter Wellies, Amaort boots (folding Japanese rubber boots) and many more.

PLAY
Make it fair on Easter Sunday with a colour-coded Easter Egg Hunt. Put one coloured egg in each child’s basket and let them hunt for the same coloured eggs. Hide eggs for younger children in the easier-to-find spots and make it more difficult for the older children. 
Why? Because that way everyone gets the same amount and it avoids any sibling rivalry incidents when the fun is all over. 

READ
The Country Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes by DuBose Heyward.
Why? Because this Bunny-Mama is as savvy as it gets, managing to be the mom of 21 kids and still beating everyone out to attain the exalted (and traditionally male-dominated) position of the Easter Bunny. Aside from being a great Easter story, it also provides an inspiring message for your little bunnies.

SURF
www.swapsity.ca
Why? Because it’s a fabulous way to get into the green spirit and do some spring cleaning as well. Recycle your unwanted items through this online bartering community and using their unique matching tool, find items that you’ve been looking for yourself.

GREEN IT
Celebrate Earth Day on April 22 with your kids.
Why? Because there are community events across Canada that you can get involved in. Start by getting the kids to help clean up your own yard or a local park and encourage the neighbours to join you. We have lots of good ideas for you to get started.

DEAL IT
Freshen up your child’s room with bits of love—letters, that is—by using code SavvyMom for 10% off any purchase at kidsloveletters.com until August 31.
Why? Because Kids’ Love Letters are personalized wall art pieces made using designer fabrics that are playful and decorative. And they show your love, of course.

HELP
By joining (or supporting) Yoga in Motion.
Why? Because not only are you supporting breast cancer research at Mount Sinai Hospital, but you’re getting four yoga sessions with top instructors, the chance to learn the new fitness craze, Zumba, as well as prizes, gift bags, food samples and more.

If you focus on chocolate and Mother Earth this month, you can’t go wrong.

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