Victoria: The Savvy Guide to June

It’s June, it’s hot and we’re happy about it. Here are some savvy ways to make the most out of this lovely month. DO Get brownie points this year by mailing a Father’s Day card to your dad and father-in-law early Why? Because you want to share the love on Father’s Day. Take some of that artwork lying around the house and fold it up into a card. Include the word ‘love’ and you’re sure to get some babysitting this summer. GO To the Family Bike Festival on Sunday, June 24 at Fairmont Empress Hotel Why? Because the whole family will get out of the house for a day full of fun events geared towards family cycling such as a bike rodeo, bike polo and mini races. GET Protected with our summer sun stuff Why? Because it’s all you need to stay safe from the sun this summer. PLAY A sprinkler game with the kids (that means you too) Why? Because sprinkler freeze dance is so much fun. You need one person to be in charge of randomly turning the water on and off (usually the one who is ‘it’). After running around and dancing through the sprinkler, players freeze when the water goes off. Whoever moves is out. READ Drop the Worry Ball: How to Parent in the Age of Entitlement by Dr. Alex Russell and Tim Falconer Why? Having helped many families with challenging kids and kid challenges through his counselling practice, Toronto-based psychologist and hockey dad Dr. Alex Russell has now captured the essence of his wise advice in print. If you want to retire from being the manager of your child’s life and become a true source of support instead, this book shares how. GREEN IT Join the Meatless Monday Movement—it doesn’t cost anything Why? Because it’s about healthy, sustainable eating and reducing greenhouse gases. Not to mention that summer is a great time to replace your meat once a week with locally grown veggies in a super summer salad. SURF MagicTown.com Why? Because it’s an interactive and fun way to keep the kids engaged in reading over the summer to prevent summer brain drain. APP IT Nike Training Club Why? Because it’s like having your own personal trainer in your pocket. This free app gives you over 85 workouts to choose from—everything from abs to kettlebells. You can track your workouts online and get rewards for completing them too. Summertime away from the gym doesn’t have to mean a summer away from working out—your fitness regime is in the palm of your hand. MAKE IT Chalkboard Flower Pot, found by our Savvy Storyteller Susannah at COLOURS TO GO Why? Because school is done this month and teachers deserve some recognition for their hard work. Your child will also be sure to get an A+ with this cute craft. The simple message of ‘Thank you for helping me grow’ is the perfect way to end the school year. HELP The Oak Bay Tea Party on Saturday, June 2 and Sunday, June 3 at Willows Beach Why? Because there’s tons to do with the family (parade, fireworks, air show and more) and you’ll be supporting many non-profit organizations by raising funds for their worthwhile charitable causes. DEAL IT Use the code SAVMAY12N when registering for a MedicAlert membership and the registration fee of $24 is waived Why? Because if your child has an allergy or medical concern, you can keep them protected—even when you’re not there—with the Canadian MedicAlert Foundation. Protection for them, peace of mind for you.