New Family Series & Movies for Kids Streaming in June

We’re weeks away from the end of school and the official start of summer, with plenty of school events to attend, spring activities to wrap, and summer camps to plan. The weather is also warming up, making it an ideal time to play at the park, break out the bikes, or finally partake in those post-dinner family strolls. Still, there’s something to be said for downtime and good old-fashioned family movie night. That’s where we come in, with new suggestions on new series and movies for kids to watch in June.

From the streaming release of blockbuster films like Fantastic Beasts and Avatar to new seasons of kids’ favourites, read on to see everything we’re watching on Canadian streaming services this month.

Streaming in June: New Family Series & Movies for Kids

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald
Thursday June 1, Crave

Harry Potter enthusiasts can continue the magical adventures with the release of these prequel movies for kids and grown-ups alike starring Eddie Redmayne as Newt Scamander and Jude Law as Albus Dumbledore. Both films hit the streaming service this month, joining Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore and expanding the Harry Potter collection.

Lego Ninjago: Dragons Rising
Thursday June 1 on Netflix

In this animated series for youth, a new generation of heroes use their ninja powers to defend Elemental Dragons from those who want to harvest their life forces and destroy the world.

Gary’s Magic Fort (s3)
Monday June 5 on CBC Gem

What’s better than kicking off summer with a brand new fort-building session? Getting inspired by Gary and his enchanted fort friends, of course. A third season of this emotion-exploring preschool series drops this month with a trips to space, a dinosaur mountain and a hot air balloon in store.

My Little Pony: Bridlewoodstock
Tuesday June 6 on Netflix

If you’ve got young My Little Pony fans, they’ll be happy to see a new special is on the way this month. Bridlewoodstock sees the Mane 5 staging a music festival during Bridlewood’s Lumi-Bloom, a bioluminescent event that only happens once a year.

The Villains of Valley View
Wednesday June 7 on Disney+

The internal battle of good versus evil is front and centre in this new teen series. When a teen supervillain stands up to the leader of all villains, he threatens her and her family. So the clan heads to Texas to hide out with new identities. But can they ditch their villainous ways? We’ll have to watch to find out.

Avatar: The Way of Water
Wednesday June 7 on Disney+

If your family couldn’t catch James Cameron’s ,much-anticipated Avatar sequel in theatres, now’s the time to plan a movie night at home. The film comes to the Disney Star portion of Disney+ this month, so now there’s no excuse to avoid seeing what all the fuss is about.

The Snoopy Show S3
Friday June 9 on Apple TV+

The world’s most famous beagle, his loyal bird Woodstock, and his human friends are back for another round of animated adventures. Twelve new episodes drop at once this month, giving the whole family something fun and familiar to kick back with.

Nimona
Wednesday June 14 on Netflix

Anticipation is high for this animated movie targeted at families with older kids. The flick follows a knight who is framed for a crime he didn’t commit. The only person who can prove his innocence is a shape-shifting teen who is also a monster the knight is sworn to kill.

Fantastic Mr. Fox
Friday June 16 on Crave

This month, the 2009 comedy adventure based on Roald Dahl’s novel comes to the streaming service. Whether you’ve got Dahl fans in the house or are just looking for a fun new movies for kids to watch together, this could be your ticket. The stop-motion film features the voice talents of George Clooney, Bill Murray, and Meryl Streep, among others.

Not Quite Narwhal
Monday June 19 on Netflix

If your family loved The New York Times bestselling book, they’ll be happy to know it’s now a TV series they can watch this month. The animated offering follows the curious Kelp, who always believed he was a narwhal like the rest of his family… until he discovered he’s actually a unicorn.

Moesha (complete series)
Tuesday June 20 on Paramount+

If you loved Brandy’s coming-of-age TV series when it aired from 1996 to 2001, the good news is that you now can share it with your own older kids. All six seasons (that’s 127 episodes) are available to stream now, so get ready to get your nostalgia on.

Hello Kitty: Super Style!
Tuesday June 20 on Prime Video

The recognizable feline makes her 3D debut in this new original aimed at viewers 5-8. Follow Hello Kitty and other members of the Cherry Town community as they use her magical bow to transform into many different versions of herself. Think of an explorer, a chef and a pop star, to start.

Swagger S2
Friday June 23 on Apple TV+

The series inspired by NBA superstar Kevin Durant’s experiences growing up is back for a second season this month. Follow the world of elite basketball clubs and their players in this touching and unique coming-of-age series.

World’s Best
Friday June 23 on Disney+

If your family loves movies, music, and coming-of-age stories, mark the calendars for this release. The film follows a 12-year-old math genius who learns his recently deceased father was a famous rapper. Naturally, he immediately sets out to pursue his own career in the music industry. This one is produced by Thomas Kail, who directed Hamilton.

Is It Cake, Too? - SavvyMom — Is It Cake. Mikey Day in episode 204 of Is It Cake. Cr. Courtesy of Netflix © 2023

Is It Cake, Too?
Friday June 30 on Netflix

If your family couldn’t get enough of this absurd but addictive baking show in its first season, it’s back for a second course. Once again, celebrity judges must determine whether a group of talented bakers present them with a cake or an everyday object. On the line? A cash prize. We speak from experience when we say this is a guessing game the whole family can get into.

The Savvy Guide to June

It’s June, it’s getting hot, and we’re happy about it! We made it to the end of the most normal school year we’ve had in a long time. We’ve earned some sunshine, some ice cream, and definitely a summer cocktail or two. Here are some with our guide to June we share some savvy ways to make the most out of this lovely month.

Welcome to the Savvy Guide to June

GO

Head out and about!
Why? School is almost out. It’s time to make some plans and head out to explore. Here’s what’s happening locally for Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary, and Vancouver families. You know you’re tired of the same old playground (even if you’re grateful for it!)

BOOK

If you haven’t already, book those summer day camps!
Why? It’s technically our third pandemic summer, but most summer day camps in Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary, and Vancouver are back up and running.

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.

GET

Protected with our best sunscreen for kids and families.
Why? Because we love the sun but we need to protect our skin from it!

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

Join the Meatless Monday Movement — it doesn’t cost anything
Why? Because it’s about healthy, sustainable eating and reducing greenhouse gasses. 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 with one of our unique salad recipes.

SURF

ImaginationLibrary.ca
Why? Did you know Queen Dolly’s literacy initiative has been in Canada since 2006? Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Canada is a free book gifting program devoted to inspiring a love of reading in the hearts of children everywhere. Each month, enrolled children receive a high quality, age appropriate book in the mail, free of charge. Children receive books from birth to age five.

LOVE

June is Pride Month
Why? Because Love is Love and we want our children to grow up empowered to be themselves and to accept and acknowledge diversity in every form. We share some lovely kids books for Pride month as well as Family-Friendly Ways to Celebrate Pride with Kids.

THANK

Start thinking about those teacher gifts and thank you cards.
Why? Because yet another bizarre and brutal school year is almost behind us and our kids’ teachers have done their best to teach our kids and keep them safe AND keep their own families running as well. You can’t beat a gift that gives back or a gift you can eat and there are wonderful local gift options as well.

WATCH

While we’re itching to get outside, of course we still look forward to family movie nights and new seasons of our (and their!) favourite shows. Here’s a round up of movies and series for families and kids streaming in June.

Coming to Terms with My Baby’s Food Allergies

Please note that this information is based on personal experience with baby’s food allergies and should not take the place of the advice of a medical professional. If you suspect your child is having an allergic reaction please seek immediate medical attention.

Our First Experience with Baby’s Food Allergies

I wasn’t exactly sure why, but when my daughter Elise hit six months-old and it was time for her to start eating solids, I was extremely nervous to introduce allergens. I put it off month after month until my doctor reminded me that introducing allergens before your child’s first birthday reduces their chances of developing lifelong allergies. I discussed my concerns and she told me that we wouldn’t know unless we tried. Our families didn’t have a history of food allergies, so there was no reason to continue putting it off.

The next day I decided to take our doctor’s advice to start introducing allergens to Elise’s diet. I knew that peanut butter when served on its own was a choking hazard, so I mixed a teaspoon of peanut butter with two teaspoons of her favourite fruit and veggie puree to thin it out. I plopped her in her highchair and decided to go for it. I placed a spoonful of the mixture into her mouth. She made a happy sound and opened her mouth for more. I gave her another spoonful and waited a few minutes. She seemed fine. I was starting to feel like we were out of the woods. She asked for more and as I was filling another spoon with food something in her eyes changed. I examined her face and saw that her cheeks and underneath her chin were more red than usual. Seconds later, hives began forming and spread across her face.

We had just moved into a new home a few months prior, and proximity to a hospital hadn’t been at the top of my “must haves” list. Whether the home was move in ready, had the correct number of bedrooms and more than one bathroom had been my main concerns. At the time, being twenty minutes away from the closest hospital did not seem unreasonable. Sitting there watching the hives and redness spread like a wave over her face I fell deep into mom guilt. Why the hell hadn’t being around the corner from a hospital been at the top of my list? I have children and emergencies can happen at any time. Shouldn’t a hospital have been more important than an extra bathroom?

And why did I decide to give her a top allergen at home? If I had been smarter I would have driven to a hospital and given her the peanut butter there, that way if she reacted I could’ve just run inside and she would have received immediate attention. Stupid! You stupid, horrible mother!

I grabbed my phone with shaking hands and called 911. I had never had to dial for an ambulance or the police before, I had never been in an emergency. The small red hives were now down her neck and continuing underneath her clothes. Elise was screeching and clawing at the itchy bumps all over her body. Her ears were red and swollen now. What was happening? Were the hives in her throat? Was her throat going to close? Was my baby going to die? I could feel the tears running down my face, but I had to keep it together. She was the one dealing with a medical emergency. I needed to do everything I could to get her through it. She was still screaming, but screaming was good. Screaming meant she could still breathe.

The emergency operator picked up the phone, “Hello 911. What’s your emergency?”

“Hi, I gave my daughter peanuts for the first time and she is having a major allergic reaction. I need paramedics.”

The operator told me the fire department and ambulance was on its way. She asked me to describe what was happening and provide our personal information. I held my baby and began packing up in case we were going to the hospital. She told me to remain calm and asked for updates. She stayed on the line until they arrived. The fire department arrived first, with the ambulance five minutes behind them. The paramedics looked my daughter over and hooked her up to a machine to check her oxygen levels. While they were helping her the allergic reaction began to go down. After an hour had passed since her initial reaction they thought that she was stable and went to head out to their next emergency. Before they left they gave Elise a moose stuffed animal that was wearing a paramedics t-shirt and told me that I did the right thing by calling.

I took Elise upstairs, nursed her, and held her close. I closed my eyes and took some deep breaths. I would call the doctor in the morning and find out if she needed an EpiPen and also ask for a referral to an allergist. While I was just beginning to relax, Elise started squirming aggressively in my arms and making unhappy sounds. I looked down and a fresh batch of hives were making their way around the back of her neck. They were moving fast and soon were on her cheeks and even on one of her eyelids. The angry hives stopped looking like small bumps and started to look more like water blisters. The blister-like hives were getting bigger and bigger and began to merge into super-hives.

My daughter didn’t even look like herself anymore. A blister expanded and took over her eye, it was now swollen shut. She unlatched her swollen lips and began screeching again. NO, NO, NO! Please, not again! I was so confused. Could there have been left over peanut residue in her mouth that was rinsed down while she was nursing? Why was a new reaction happening?

I called 911 again. The paramedics were on their way back. When the same paramedics walked through the door they looked surprised at how much bigger Elise’s second reaction was. They examined her again and told me to grab our bags and put her in her car seat, we were going to the hospital. They strapped the car seat to the stretcher and off we went. Elise was
mesmerized by all of the lights and beeping equipment in the ambulance. She pointed at different items and looked over to make sure I was paying close attention to everything that she was showing me. I nodded and gave her the words for as many items as I could. I told her that she was brave and that I loved her. I told her the hospital was going to make her all better and we’d be able to go back home soon. She seemed very uncomfortable, still itching and unable to see out of one eye.

We got to the hospital and checked in. We were given a room in the ER and then it was a revolving door of nurses and the doctor coming in and out to look at Elise and monitor her. They administered an EpiPen and it worked like magic. Immediately the hives began to disappear, the swelling went down and Elise looked at me in wonder.

I could tell she was starting to feel better too because she started to babble more and was no longer scratching at her skin. They gave her oral steroids and other medication. They told us we would have to stay until it had been six hours from her initial reaction because multiple waves of allergic reactions were possible.

I learned that because Eli had eczema, she was more likely to have food allergies. Apparently food allergies, eczema, and asthma often go hand-in-hand. The first allergic reaction tends to be the most mild, and Elise would require an EpiPen to be with her at all times moving forward. The doctor prescribed one EpiPen for daycare and two for home. The doctor sent the referral to an allergist and advised me to keep her away from products containing peanuts.

We would now have to be diligent about checking food labels moving forward. My head swam with all of this information and all I kept thinking was, “food could kill my baby.” I felt helpless. I may be able to protect her at home, but what about all of the places she could be exposed to peanuts outside of the house: restaurants, school, camp, planes, friend’s and family’s homes. I opened my phone and sent a quick email to the daycare letting them know of her diagnosis.

It’s now been six months since Elise’s first allergic reaction. Our allergist works with us to navigate Elise’s allergy and I’ve had time to come to terms with her diagnosis. We’ve had to feed her other allergens to rule them out. She’s also had allergy appointments, blood tests, skin prick tests, as well as her first oral food challenge. We are currently considering oral immunotherapy, a treatment where the patient is given increasing amounts of the food they are allergic to in order to build up tolerance to it. We are hopeful that this treatment could help keep her safer in life moving forward.

I still feel that her allergy is out of our control, but we are careful to avoid peanuts and I am thankful that modern day medicine and treatments exist. Elise and her peanut allergy are a package deal. We love her the way she is and so we will manage her food allergy and continue to protect her.

Family Friendly Activities to Check Out in Calgary in June

Food, festivals, sports, and sunshine are upon us in Calgary in June! There’s plenty of fun ways to keep your family entertained as we kick off the summer months in YYC – check out this roundup of a handful to get excited about!

Fun Events & Attractions for Families in Calgary in June

Optimist Family Day in the Park | optimistyyc.org

Saturday June 3 from 10 am – 3 pm
Optimist Athletic Park, 5020 26 Avenue
Price: Free

The 2023 Optimist Family Day in the Park will be held in the Southwest community of Glenbrook in Calgary in June and includes tons of fun for the whole family. Join in fun games and activities like mini golf, curling, and bean bag tossing, try your luck in the silent auction, and grab a delicious burger or hot dog with a side of cotton candy, popcorn, and a drink! There will even be a marching band!

Calgary Ukrainian Festival | calgaryukrainianfestival.com

Saturday June 3 (10 am – 12 am) & Sunday June 4 (10 am – 6 pm)
Acadia Recreation Complex, 240 90 Ave. SE
Price: General Admission (13-64) $10; Senior (65+) and Youth (6-12) $5 Children 5 and under and Newcomers with CUAET Free!

Bring your family to the Acadia Recreation Complex for an informative, educational and entertaining festival that celebrates all aspects of Ukrainian Heritage. Take a bite of delicious Ukrainian food and drinks, take in beautiful Ukrainian Arts and Crafts, and enjoy live demonstrations, shows and performances, as well as plenty of activities for kids!

4th Street Lilac Festival | lilacfestival.net

Sunday June 4 from 10 am – 6 pm
4th Street SW Between 13 Ave. and Elbow Drive

It wouldn’t be Calgary in June without the iconic Lilac Festival that’s back and better than ever! This all-ages event is a great way to celebrate the coming of summer as event goers take in the sights, sounds and smells of the vendors, musicians and entertainers along 4th street.

Heart Beats 14th Annual Family Run and Walk | heartbeats.ca

Saturday June 10 at 10 am
Rosemont Community Association
Price: General Admission (13+) $40; Kids (4-12) $15; Children (3 and under) Free!

There’s nothing better than enjoying the outdoors for a great cause. Whether you’re signing up for a 5k walk or a 3k run, this non-competitive event will help to raise funds for Heart Beats, an organization that supports children with heart disease. There will also be a free kids fun event held by the Community Centre at 11:00 (but be sure to register for a special gift!) In addition to an award for fundraising, all registrants will be entered into a draw for some incredible door prizes.

The Great Benjamins Circus | greatbenjaminscircus.com

Friday June 16 – Sunday June 18
Markin MacPhill Centre
Price: Tickets start at $20.50. Visit their website to download your free kids ticket coupon!

If your family loves the thrill of watching high-flying aerial acts, gravity-defying jugglers, daredevil motorcyclists, stunning acrobatics and hilarious clowns, you won’t want to miss the Great Benjamins Circus. Non-stop entertainment and surprises will be sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!

Okotoks Parade and Children’s Festival | okotoks.ca
June 17 from 11 am – 3pm
Ethel Tucker Park at the Arts & Learning Plaza and Park, 7 Riverside Drive, Okotoks
Price: Free

It may be a bit of a drive, but The Okotoks Parade and Children’s Festival is definitely worth the trip! The parade features bands, floats, dancers, horses and fire trucks and the festival is filled with live entertainment and activities.

CRESCENDO Presented By Safeway | childrenshospitalab.ca

Saturday June 17 at 7 pm
Arts Commons Jack Singer Concert Hall
Price: Tickets start at $113.90

(In Support of the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation)

What better way to spend an evening in Calgary in June than singing and dancing along with your favourite pop and rock hits from acts like Neil Diamond, Prince, Eagles, P!NK, The Beatles, and more? Some of Alberta’s most talented musicians are bringing an evening of music and storytelling to audiences in support of The Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation, specifically in the areas of youth mental health resources and research. Join a group of 6 or more for special ticket rates! If you can’t get enough of a good time, head to the mezzanine level of the lobby for the Building Community After Party, where you can enjoy a glass of prosecco, light refreshments meet and greets with some of the CRESCENDO performers and more music!

All Sport One Day | sportcalgary.ca

Sport and Rec Facilities Across Calgary
Saturday June 17 – Monday June 19
Price: Free

If your kiddo has started begging to join a local sport or club but isn’t sure just what they want to commit to, All Sport One Day gives them the chance to see exactly what’s out there. Over 100 sessions featuring more than 30 activities will be offered across the city free of charge – this year for two weekends! Public registration for the June 17-19 sessions opens on Thursday June 8 for sports like aikido, basketball, baton, cricket, fencing, lacrosse, parkour, water polo, and more!

10th Annual Wings and Wheels | thehangarmuseum.ca

Saturday June 17 – Sunday June 18
The Hangar Flight Museum
Price: Adults (18-64) $15; Seniors (65+) $11; Students (12 – 17 or with valid ID) $10; Children (0-2) and Dads Free; Family Pass (2 adults and up to 4 children under 18) $40

For fans of planes and automobiles, the 10th Annual Wings and Wheels event at the Hangar Flight Museum is must! Each year on Father’s Day weekend, the museum partner with local car clubs to add special “wheels” to their collection of wings. In addition to checking out the fantastic displays, there will be activities and attractions like flying crafts, vehicle show and shine, and helicopter city tours (for an additional fee, from LR Helicopters).

Raffi in Concert | ticketmaster.ca

Sunday June 18 at 2 pm
Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Price: Tickets start at $35

Raffi, North America’s preeminent family entertainer, returns to the stage in 2023 with a series of #belugagrads concerts and has a stop in Calgary in June.

Parents and kids alike will love singing along to classic Raffi hits like “Baby Beluga” and “Banana Phone” at the Jubilee Auditorium on Sunday June 18th. In addition to being a renowned children’s singer, Raffi is also a producer, author, lecturer, and advocate for children, as well as a recipient of the Order of Canada and the United Nations’ Earth Achievement Award.

Aboriginal Awareness Week Family Day Festival and Powwow | aawc.ca

Sunday June 18 – Saturday June 24
Calgary Stampede Grounds
Price: Free

Aboriginal Awareness Week and their partners have put together a week-long celebration of events that promote pride, understanding, and awareness of First Nations, Métis and Inuit cultures, traditions, contributions, and achievements to Canadian society. The event is open to any and everyone who’d like to enjoy fabulous free food, a traditional Pow Wow, a Hand Games tournament, an Indigenous Arts and Crafts Market, a talent showcase, and more!

Spring at Calgary Farmyard | calgaryfarmyard.com

Until Friday June 30
Calgary Farmyard, 284022 Township Road 224, Rocky View County
Price: $21.95 + taxes and fees online or $26.50 at the gate. Ages 2 and under are free.

It’s the cutest season of all at Calgary Farmyard! There are so many great reasons to visit, but the adorable baby animals waiting to greet you will be close to the top of the list. In addition to sweet little piglets, goats, bunnies and chicks, families will love all of the attractions to climb, run, jump, slide and play on. Jumbo jumpers, mini golf, zip lines, giant slides, wagon and pony rides are just a few of the fun ways you can spend an afternoon!

YYC Summer Scoop Fest | yycscoopfest.com

Friday June 30 – Friday July 7
Across Calgary
Price: Varies by order

In case you needed an excuse to get a scoop of ice cream, let this be it! YYC Summer Scoop Fest is a 9 day ice cream event supporting Calgary Meals on Wheels. Participating vendors across the city will be putting forth their tastiest flavours in hopes of coming out on top in competitions for YYC’s Best Scoop, Best Non-Dairy Scoop, and the Golden Scoop award. $1-2 from every sale will go towards Calgary Meals on Wheels, which helps provide food to Calgarians in need.

What activities are your family most excited to check out this June? Did we miss any great ones? Let us know in the comments!

Family Events and Activities in Ottawa in June

Fun family activities and events in Ottawa in June include indoor and outdoor opportunities that will delight all ages. As the school year comes to a close, we know families are incredibly busy this month, but get out your calendar because we think you’ll want to mark down some of these dates!

Fun Family Events and Activities in Ottawa in June

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Weekday Little Farmers at The Log Farm

Bring your adventurous toddler to the Log Farm for Week-Day Little Farmers! On Wednesdays and Thursday (through October), enjoy a new weekly theme. The Little Farmers program is a commitment free program. Pay as you go, you can pay at the door or pre-purchase your tickets online. Last admission is always one hour prior to closing (3pm).

The Log Farm is open for families on the weekends and Spring on the Farm is a the perfect time to see baby animals and participate in other on-site activities.

Doors Open Ottawa

More than 100 buildings across Ottawa will have free admission and open their doors to come and explore all that they have to offer on Saturday June 3rd and Sunday June 4th. You will even have the chance to check out buildings that are often closed to the Public. This is the 2nd largest event of it’s kind in Canada and you are welcomed to check out various embassies, museums, breweries and more! There are options for both live and virtual tours at various locations for this popular event which is in it’s 21st year!

Ottawa Ribfest on Sparks Street

You will be able to smell the deliciousness all throughout the downtown core and you won’t want to miss out on Ottawa’s Ribfest on Sparks Street! This family friendly event runs May 31-June 4th and you may even want to spend a few lunch times here so you can try out all that they have to offer. Bring out the baby wipes because you will want them after sampling all the delicious BBQ chicken and ribs on site. Hitting it up on a weekend? We suggest parking at World Exchange Plaza or City Hall.

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OrKidstra Concerts

Celebrate music with OrKidstra concerts on June 7 for Vanier and June 14th for Ottawa. The families and friends of OrKidstra students are encouraged to come out and cheer on the kids in a relaxed atmosphere (tickets not required). This free concert for the student’s family and friends will feature a wonderful selection of jazz, pop, classical, and world music. OrKidstra End-of-Year Concerts are approximately 1 hour in length. The events are free, however donations in support of OrKidstra’s mission to empower kids and build community through music are welcome.

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Dickinson Days in Manotick Village

Save the Date for Dickinson Days in Manotick Village on June 2nd – June 4th. The Village has many activities planned for residents and visitors in historic Manotick. Don’t miss the pancake breakfast, fishing derby and horse drawn wagon rides. On Sunday, attend the community BBQ as the event closes out. More details, including the full agenda and times, can be found on the Manotick Village website.

613 Flea

June 10th you can explore this once a month flea market at Lansdowne Park in the Abderdeen Pavillion. With over 140 vendors on site you can explore and pick up treasures and special goods from bakers and artists along with vintage clothing, records and much more! This special event runs one Saturday a month.

FCA Ottawa Ferrari Festival

Have a car lover in your family? Then you will definitely want to check out the Ottawa Ferrari Festival from June 8-11th in Little Italy. Italian Week runs from June 8-18 with special events happening daily. Check out the Italian Stamp Art at the McNabb Recreation Centre on June 13th after spending the weekend enjoying the opening ceremonies with great music, food and celebrations.

Youth Pride Prom: The Secret Garden

Celebrate with Capital Pride on June 16th at the Horitcultual Building at Lansdowne Park in an inclusive and welcoming environment. Celebrate your end of school year, for grades 9-12, in a safe place with special performances, snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. Tickets can be reserved online ahead of time.

Summer Indigenous Art Market

The NAC is hosting a special Indigenous Art Market on Saturday June 17th where you are welcome to explore, shop and visit local artisits in the arts and cultural field. Crafts, jewelery, beadwork, paintings, moccasins and more will be on site to purchase and support Indigenious artists.

Family Events and Things to Do in Vancouver in June

June is here and summer break from school is just around the corner. But before we get into full summer mode, there’s still a few more weeks of the usual schedules – along with a great variety of upcoming local events for children of all ages. From stage productions for little ones up to Shakespearean dramas for the teens and older, along with food trucks, classic cars, and more, there’s heaps to see, do, and enjoy over the coming weeks in Vancouver in June.

Events & Fun Things to Do in and Around Vancouver in June

Family Sunday at Surrey Museum

When: Sunday June 4
Where: Surrey
Website: Surrey.ca

Be inspired by the spring exhibitions, try new art activities, and see a live performance in the Studio Theatre. Learn about artist Charles Campbell and Enable: Art Society artists who consider community and connection through dynamic art and sculpture.

Disney’s The Aristocats KIDS

When: Thursday June 8 – Saturday June 10
Where: New Westminster
Website: https://anvilcentre.com/

Based on the beloved Disney animated film, and featuring a jazzy, upbeat score, Disney’s The Aristocats KIDS is a non-stop thrill ride of feline fun, complete with unbelievable twists and turns.

In the heart of Paris, a kind and eccentric millionairess wills her entire estate to Duchess, her high-society cat, and her three little kittens. Laughs and adventure ensue as the greedy, bumbling butler pulls off the ultimate catnap caper. Now it’s up to the rough-and-tumble alley cat, Thomas O’Malley, and his band of swingin’ jazz cats to save the day. Ages 5+

Bard on the Beach

When: June 8 to September 30
Where: Vanier Park, Vancouver
Website: https://bardonthebeach.org/

Returning for their 34th season, Bard on the Beach may not be a great choice for the littlest ones, but for older kids and teens, this is a unique theatre experience unlike any other. The festival is Western Canada’s largest not-for-profit professional Shakespeare series and is held in Senakw/Vanier Park. Bard’s blockbuster As You Like It, brimming with Beatles hits, is back on the BMO Mainstage. This season will also feature Shakespeare’s thrilling political drama, Julius Caesar, as well as Henry V on the Howard stage with Goblin:Macbeth, created by a team of acclaimed Canadian theatre-makers.

Fraser Valley Classic Car Show

When: Sunday June 11
Where: Chilliwack
Website: https://fvccs.ca/

Take in a day of classic cars and motorcycles and help raise funds for the Chilliwack General Hospital. Event entrance is by donation and goes to the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation. Participants pay $10 per car in advance to pre-register their vehicles, or $15 on the day of the event. All cars with collector car status are eligible. Door prizes and food food trucks on site.

Fraser Valley Children’s Festival

When: Sunday June 11
Where: Mission
Website: https://missionartscouncil.ca/22546/fraser-valley-childrens-festival/

Check out the 27th annual Fraser Valley Children’s Festival at Fraser River Heritage Park, starting at 10 am. and running until 4 pm. The day will feature hands-on activities, including music and local vendors. The event is free and parking is by donation.

Teddy Bear Picnic

When: Saturday June 10 & Sunday June 11
Where: Coquitlam
Website: https://www.festivalcoquitlam.ca/

Don’t miss the annual Teddy Bear Picnic at Towne Centre Park with booths, roving artists, face painters, demos and more! Bring your teddies for this epic picnic in the park after the parade! Featuring Mr I and the Musical Rainbow Students from Place des Arts, Music with Marnie, Club Aviva, The MomBop Group, the Great Gordini, and Penny Pom Pom.

River Basin Day

When: Sunday June 10
Where: Jerry Sulina Park, Maple Ridge
Website: https://fraserriverdiscovery.org/rbd/

The Fraser River Discovery Centre in New Westminster hosts monthly “discovery days” and up for June is Jerry Sulina Park in Maple Ridge to build our very own nature boats! We’ll explore what kinds of objects float, scavenge for building materials, and learn a few simple boat-making techniques. Then, we’ll watch our boats set sail on their inaugural voyage! There is minimal shade along the trail in Jerry Sulina Park, so please come prepared for the weather.

Surrey Block Party

When: Saturday June 3 & Sunday June 4
Where: Surrey
Website: https://greatervanfoodtruckfest.com

The Greater Vancouver Food Truck Fest moves to Surrey this month with more than 25 incredible food trucks, local artisan market vendors, local beers, and talented local musicians. You’re not going to want to miss out on this one. Food options range from the simple to the gourmet, with donair, ice cream, cotton candy, hot dogs, and much much more.

More Than a Mine at Britannia Mine

When: on now through November 5th
Where: Britannia Beach
Website: https://www.britanniaminemuseum.ca/

This summer, Britannia Mine is celebrating 100 Years of Mill #3. Designated as a National Historic Site, the 20-storey Mill No. 3 building was an architectural feat of engineering at its time, built on the side of Mount Sheer at Britannia Beach over a period of 18 months, and completed in 1923. The exhibit delves into how Mill No. 3 served as the heartbeat of the Britannia community, its history, technological innovations, and impact as an icon of the Sea to Sky Corridor. Mill No. 3 played a significant role in providing for the Britannia Beach and Mount Sheer mining communities, contributing to BC’s economic well-being until the Mine’s closure in 1974.

Vancouver Children’s Festival

When: May 30 to Sunday June 4
Where: Granville Island and Online
Website: https://www.childrensfestival.ca/

The annual Vancouver International Children’s Festival is back at Granville Island this year. The longest-running professional performing arts festival for young audiences and the first of its kind in North America and Europe, the Vancouver International Children’s Festival presents the world’s finest music, theatre, dance, puppetry, acrobatics and storytelling, as well as creative arts activities for the entire family

Spring and summer Farmers’ Markets

When: Varied dates and times
Where: throughout the region
Website: https://bcfarmersmarkettrail.com/

Use the search feature on the BC Farmers Market website to search for the local winter markets in your neck of the woods, or check out the upcoming spring and summer versions. From fresh veggies to locally crafted artisan goods, BC farm markets are known for their diverse offerings, all year round.

Kid-Friendly Events Happening in Toronto in June

June is a wacky time for kids, especially if they’re in school. Vacation and summer camp time is so close and with the weather warming, it can be hard for them to do anything but bounce off the walls. So, we’ve rounded up over a dozen ways for you to get the kids out of the house and into the city where they can have fun and burn off all that energy.

While many of these suggestions will give your family the opportunity to enjoy the sunnier weather, we’ve also included a few indoor ideas, for those rainy or too-hot days (you know they are coming).

And don’t forget that June is fun fair season at your local schools. Attending a fun fair is an easy way to support your community while providing your kids with some affordable fun (and maybe providing you with an easy solution for lunch or dinner). If your kids aren’t in school yet, you can likely find out about any nearby fairs in your local Facebook groups, on community bulletin boards or at the schools (most display a giant sign or banner with fair details).

Fun Family Events & Attractions in Toronto in June

Stranger Things Experience

Cinespace Marine Terminal Studio, 8 Unwin Ave., Toronto
Now open until early July

Take your family on a trip to the Hawkins Lab where you’ll find yourselves immersed into an interactive experience that will have you meeting your favourite Stranger Things characters as well as a few of the show’s creepier cast members. We know that some of these themed “experiences” can be a bit disappointing but this one is consistently receiving rave reviews from participants who love how engaging it is. The actual experience lasts around 45 minutes and ends at the ‘80s themed Mix-Tape, where you can hangout for as long as you want and take photos and enjoy food and drinks, including of course ice cream! Given the subject matter, which includes mature language and graphic imagery, kids under five are not allowed but if your school-aged kids are already watching and enjoying the show, they’ll be okay with this experience. Tickets start at around $49.

Splash Island at the Toronto Zoo

2000 Meadowvale Rd., Toronto
Now open until September

One of the Toronto Zoo’s best features, its Splash Island splash pad and wading pool, re-opened in late May and is now ready to cool off your family (at least on the weekends; it’s not open daily until July 1). It’s filled with colourful, animal-themed water features and a few small water slides. There’s even a limited number of chairs ringing the pool, for the comfort of us parents. Admission to Splash Island is included with your entrance fee to the zoo, which starts at around $20 for kids.

Kid’s Marketplace

Beaches Recreation Centre, 6 Williamson Rd., Toronto
Saturday June 3

Support budding young entrepreneurs, artisans, and makers at a special marketplace where all the sellers will be kids! Over 40 children will be selling everything from birdhouses to artwork to all kinds of yummy treats, including snow cones and cotton candy. There will also be live music, a silent auction from local businesses and “a relaxing adult lounge.” Entry to this event, which will be set up inside the rec centre as well as outside (weather permitting), is free but be sure to bring cash in case your family spots something you like.

NBS Block Party

National Ballet School, 400 Jarvis St., Toronto
Saturday June 3

Peek behind the curtains of one of the country’s premier dance schools at its annual summer open house. Featuring, “…a festival feel and family-friendly atmosphere…” this event will include a scavenger hunt through the school’s campus, a dance gear sale and of course live performances. Work up an appetite in one of the dance workshops and then check out the barbeque and patio bar. Admission to this event is free but RSVPing is encouraged.

Magic Mel Magic Show & BenTastic! Family Magic Show

Wychwood Theatre, Studio 176, 76 Wychwood Ave., Toronto
Saturday and Sunday June 3 & 4

Two different magicians show off their tricks and talents at the Wychwood Theatre this June. At 10:30am and 2:30pm, BenTastic puts on, “an action-packed, interactive magic show” that will have your family laughing and maybe even participating (fair warning!). Then at 12:30pm and 4:30pm, it’s Magic Mel’s turn to entertain your family. She promises to take you all on, “…a journey to become ‘real magicians’ during this fast-paced magic show!” Each show runs around 50 minutes in length and has general admission seating, which goes for $25 a spot.

Voyage to the Deep: Underwater Adventures

Ontario Science Centre, 77 Don Mills Rd., Toronto
Exhibit opens Monday June 5

Take your family on a trip to the bottom of the sea aboard Captain Nemo’s fantastical Nautilus submarine at the Ontario Science Centre’s latest special exhibit. Inspired by Jules Verne’s classic novel, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, this show is filled with interactive learning opportunities. There’s also a giant, twisty slide! Admission starts at $13 (kids under three are free) but note that access to the Centre’s popular IMAX films is an additional fee.

Do West Fest

Dundas West St., between Shaw St. and Lansdowne Ave., Toronto
Friday June 9 – Sunday June 11

The festival formerly known as Dundas West Fest turns 10 this year and it has planned quite the party to celebrate. Some 16 blocks will be closed to traffic and filled with extended patios, vendors, and live performers. There’s also an entire area devoted to children’s activities. The festival is free to attend but make sure to bring your credit card and some cash so that you can indulge in some of the yummy food available.

The Nightingale of a Thousand Songs

Lyric Theatre, Meridian Arts Centre, 5040 Yonge St., Toronto
Friday June 9 – Sunday June 11

Over 80 talented young opera singers backed by a professional chamber orchestra will bring this production, based on an Armenian folk tale, to life. It tells the tale of two child siblings who, “…embark on an adventure to find the nightingale of a thousand songs to bring back life and joy to their world.” The show, which lasts approximately 65 minutes without an intermission, will be best enjoyed by kids ages seven and up. Tickets start as low as $63.

Lakeshore Village Grilled Cheese Challenge Festival

Lake Shore Blvd. W. from Islington Ave. to Second St., Toronto
Saturday June 10

Your kid’s favourite food gets its very own festival in June! Multiple restaurants, caterers, and more face off to see who makes the best grilled cheese in the city and you get to taste the entrees. Once your family has filled up on grilled cheese (or one of the festival’s many other food items), check out this event’s additional attractions. There will be a classic car show, the Furlani Superdogs Show, the Monkey Movers bus, and even a beer garden. Entry to the festival is free but bring your cards because this event is packed with ways to spend money.

Wet N Wild Opens

7855 Finch Ave. W., Brampton
Saturday June 10

It’s time to get your waterslide on at Wet N Wild! The waterpark re-opens for its 2023 season on Saturday June 10. Over a dozen slides, plus the wave pool, are ready to thrill your family while the lazy river is waiting for when you want to take it easy. The park also features three different areas that are perfect for younger kids, including Bear Footin’ Bay, which is home to a giant tipping bucket! Tickets start at around $40.

Taste of Little Italy

College Street around Grace Street
Friday June 16 – Sunday June 18

One of Toronto’s biggest street festivals is back and ready to serve up a weekend filled with fun, shopping, and of course delicious food. Dozens of food vendors will line a pedestrianized College Street and while there will be a nice selection of Italian food for sale, expect to also find deliciousness from all over the world. Also expect to see (and hear) live music, street performers, a small selection of carnival games and rides and more. Entry to this event is free.

City of Toronto Outdoor Pools Open

Various locations
Pools start opening on Saturday June 17

Nothing quite says summer like a dip in an outdoor pool. The City of Toronto operates 58 pools across the city, some of which water slides, toddler-friendly shallow areas and more. The first 10 pools start opening on Saturday, June 17, on an evenings and weekends schedule, and by Friday, June 30, all of Toronto’s pools will be opened on their full schedule. City pools are free to access; just be sure to bring a lock!

Na-Me-Res Pow Wow & Indigenous Arts Festival

Fort York, 250 Fort York Blvd., Toronto
Saturday June 17 & Sunday June 18

Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Month with a jam-packed weekend event. On the Saturday, the Na-Me-Res Annual Traditional Pow Wow takes to centre stage with drumming, dancing, and live music. Then on the Sunday, enjoy more Indigenous talent, including both traditional and contemporary performances. Both days will feature a wide selection of artisans and food sellers so while access to the festival is free, make sure to bring your cash and cards so that your family can take advantage of everything this event has to offer.

Family Pride

Church Street Junior Public School, 83 Alexander St., Toronto
Saturday June 24 & Sunday June 25

Pride’s family-focused celebrations return to the school grounds at Church Street Junior Public School for a weekend of inclusion, acceptance, and celebration. This space, aimed at kids ages 12 and under, will host face painters, magicians, puppet shows and story times, including one presented by the famous Fay and Fluffy. Access to all Family Pride programming is free and the fun runs from 10am until 5pm both days.

Mood Boosters: 7 Foods That’ll Make You Happier

Happiness is not something that is always easy to find. You’ve got the job, the husband, the kids, and the friends, but sometimes, you still just don’t feel totally happy. Mood boosters seem few and far between…

Did you know that there are certain foods that will help pull yourself out of that dreary fog?

These are foods that you can easily integrate into your diet (think oatmeal, yogurt, and yes, even dark chocolate) and that can help boost your mood, your spirit, and your overall happiness.

So, if you’re feeling a little blue, try incorporating one — or all — of these 7 foods into your daily repertoire.

Happy Foods: 7 Mood Boosters

Oatmeal

Rich in carbohydrates, a warm bowl of oatmeal or a chewy cookie is a great way to boost your mood.

When your body encounters carbohydrates, it produces an amino acid called tryptophan, which stimulates the production of serotonin – a neurotransmitter proven to make you feel more tranquil and better able to handle what life throws at you.

Be sure to select carbs that are high in fiber, so you don’t experience a blood sugar high followed by a depressing crash. Oatmeal not your thing? Swap it out for chickpeas, whole grain bread, or potatoes.

Broccoli

Broccoli is an excellent source of chromium; a mineral the body uses to help metabolize food.

When suffering from a chromium deficiency, the body has difficulty regulating its insulin production. And, since insulin helps process sugar, this causes erratic blood sugar levels, wreaking havoc on your mood.

Chromium also boosts the brain’s production of serotonin, norepinephrine. and melatonin, which help you feel content, collected, and relaxed. Chromium can also be found in potatoes, turkey, and grapes.

Yogurt

Loaded with calcium and vitamin D, yogurt is a potent ally when you’re battling PMS-related depression.

Changes in estrogen levels prior to menstruation affect calcium levels, which can lead to hypocalcaemia (low levels of calcium in the blood). This causes the parathyroid to overproduce its hormone to compensate for the calcium shortage. An excess of this hormone results in feelings of anxiety, fatigue, irritability, and mild depression.

When a visit from Aunt Flo is imminent, shake the blues away by loading up on yogurt and other calcium-rich foods, such as collard greens, kale, and ricotta cheese.

Spinach

Spinach contains high levels of foliate (also known as folic acid and B9). A foliate deficiency can lead to fatigue and dwindling serotonin levels, guaranteed to make you frown.

Folate supports serotonin regulation. Serotonin is vital to mental health since it helps the brain manage mood and determine social behaviour. Other foods high in folate include black-eyed peas, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus.

Dark Chocolate

There isn’t a woman alive who’s surprised to see this on the list.

Chocolate is the go-to for anyone nursing a case of the blues but, if you select darker varieties, you’ll get more than its comforting taste.

Dark chocolate is high in magnesium, which has been shown to quiet muscles and reduce anxiety. It also has trace amounts of tryptophan, which relaxes the mind and eases the symptoms associated with depression.

Avocado

Beyond being buttery and delicious, avocados are adept at mellowing you out. Avocados help lower your blood pressure and soothe your nerves thanks to their high levels of monounsaturated fats and potassium.

The monounsaturated fats found in avocados also keep the receptors in your brain sensitive to that happy neurotransmitter serotonin.

Cashews

Cashews are chock full of the smile-inducing mineral magnesium. Magnesium plays a vital role in the development of serotonin, which helps us regulate our emotions and steer clear of negative thought processes.

If you’re magnesium deficient, you can experience irritability, mental confusion, and a predisposition to stress, so be sure to load up on magnesium-rich foods like cashews. If you’re not much of a nut person, give spinach, bananas, or lentils, a try.

Ideas for a (Fun!) Low-Key Long Weekend with Kids

Long weekends should mean a little r&r. A sleep in? A couple of lazy days? Is that even possible with on a long weekend with kids? A getaway would be ideal, but that’s not always possible. There’s always so much pressure to make long weekends extra fun.

So, are you stuck at home for the long weekend? Here are some ideas for May long weekend activities to actually enjoy your extra day off. Here’s how to make the most of a low-key long weekend with kids…

Fun Ideas for a Low-Key Long Weekend with Kids

Go for Ice Cream

A family trip in the car to the local DQ or one of your city’s top ice cream shops (see Toronto‘s, Vancouver‘s, Calgary‘s, and Ottawa’s top ice cream shops) is a small enough outing to not break the bank but is a special family experience that doesn’t happen every day.

And this way, that secret stash in the freezer gets to remain just that… a secret just for you. And maybe your partner if you’re feeling generous.

Pack a Picnic

Everybody’s getting tired of the same four walls, and who wants to wipe off the table for the trillionth time when it’s supposed to be a holiday? A family picnic, even just to your local park or playground, is a special meal out and a literal breath of fresh air. Our Ultimate Family Picnic Guide is super helpful if you want to go all out on the long weekend with kids. But, just toss a blanket in the car and grab some takeout and that’s a picnic, too.

Check out out lists of best parks and picnic spots in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Ottawa.

Family Movie Night Extravaganza

If you’ve got the outdoor space, make a small investment in tech and you’ve got the perfect replacement to crowded, expensive movie theatres. Who’s in a hurry to crowd themselves into a theatre anyway? And at home the seats are way comfier and there’s WAY better snacks if you really want to know…

Backyard Games & Outdoor Activities

Don’t scramble at the last minute or wait for the inevitable, “I’m bored!” Take inventory of your family board games and take a bit of time to learn a few more; maybe some card games for kids?

And in a perfect world, on a long weekend you’ll be spending the majority of your time outside. Brush up on these classic outdoor games to make sure you’re ready to compete with those competitive toddlers.

No Cooking! Do Takeout

At the very least, treat yourselves to some of your favourite local takeout. A long weekend is supposed to be about fun and relaxation, and I don’t know many of us who would describe cooking all day and then cleaning up afterwards as fun and relaxing.

Tired of your usual family-friendly takeout joints? Check out our lists of great choices for takeout in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Ottawa.

The Benefits of Having a Pet

So for how long have your kids been begging for a pet? Like a real pet? Some kids are lucky enough to be born into a family with a beloved creature. However, if you’re on the fence about getting one, there are many benefits of having a pet–a dog, cat, bird, fish or guinea pig–that will have a big impact on your kids.

Here are 6 benefits of having a pet that will positively affect your kids…

1. Responsibility

There are many tasks that come with having a pet such as feeding, exercise, grooming, and play. Including your children in these tasks makes them feel valued, helps them to understand accountability as well as teaches them how to take care of others.

Children as young as two can have a role in caring for the family pet–from filling up the water dish to brushing them. Older children can take on more involved tasks such as cleaning the fish tank or taking Fido for his afternoon walk. To keep your kids engaged, make caring for the family pet fun by building playful rituals into the task, like singing the same song each time dinner is poured into the dog bowl. It’s also important for parents to model caring for the pet. If your kids see you doing these activities, they will follow suit.

It’s also great to try to do some tasks together. The nightly dog walk can become a family affair creating special time where you can connect with your kids while your dog (and the entire family) is getting exercise.

2. Language & Conversation

A family pet provides natural opportunities for children to develop their language and conversation skills. Having a pet around provides opportunities for your toddler or preschooler to have verbal interactions (albeit one-way verbal interaction). It’s not abnormal to catch your little one talking gibberish to your pet or sharing the highs and lows of their day, for example. Exposure to new words can also help with language acquisition, and pets come with a lot of vocabulary such as leash, fetch, doggy, kitty, etc.

3. Empathy

Empathy, compassion, and kindness are important social and emotional skills that are taught and develop over time. One of the benefits of a pet is the ability to cultivate these skills in children through a variety of ways. Pets are very reliant on their owners–when children are exposed to and included in the care of the family pet, they quickly realize how dependent the pet is on them–this dependency helps to develop empathy.

Pets have many non-verbal cues to express their wants and needs. Encouraging your child to be aware of these cues and react to them helps build compassion and awareness of the needs of others. Plus having a pet will nurture and inspire a child’s love for all animals and nature, and teach respect for living things, as a result of the positive connection they feel with their furry or feathered friend.

4. Gross Motor Skills

Most pets require exercise, play, and grooming. These activities can help with gross motor development in kids, from throwing a stick with the dog, to feeding the right amount of food to the fish, to playing with a feather with the cat. Having a pet also often encourages an active lifestyle – something we all want our kids to value.

5. Self-Esteem

Many studies have shown that one of the benefits of having a pet is helping kids develop high self-esteem. Since they offer unconditional love, a pet can comfort, give support, and listen to a child’s troubles without judgment or consequence. Children who live with pets also tend to have less loneliness and enhanced social skills. Self-esteem is also built from completing tasks such as walking the dog or cleaning the birdcage, giving kids a sense of accomplishment and pride.

6. Analytical and Critical Thinking

If you decide to get a pet when your child is a bit older (5+), including them in the process of deciding which pet is best for your family can help develop analytical and critical thinking skills. A lot of research goes into deciding what type of animal will be best for your family. By including your children in the discussion, having them express their opinion, and encouraging them to do research about different pet options you are providing your child with an opportunity to think critically about how a pet will work within their family.

This is a very tangible way for children to develop these skills. It is important to mention that this process can also help parents decided if their kids are ready for a pet because if they are not interested in doing the research and the groundwork, maybe they are not ready just yet.