Calgary: The Savvy Guide to November 2014

Since there are no long weekends to celebrate this month, we have some suggestions to get you through the post-Halloween trauma that is November. Here’s our guide to making the most of it.

DO
Prepare for winter by treating yourself to a new hat, scarf or pair of boots that you love
Why? Because you won’t notice the dreary weather if you feel fabulous in your new duds.

GO
To Zoolights at the Calgary Zoo beginning November 21
Why? Because the zoo will be decked out in 1.5 million lights—all of which create animal shapes, flash in time with music and illuminate the zoo like you’ve never seen it before. Grab some hot chocolate and be sure to stop by the Kids’ Zone.

GET
The flu shot
Why? Because it’s not just about you…if you get sick, you’ll probably make other people sick. You don’t want to be that person, do you?

PLAY
In the leaves with the kids
Why? It’s fun, you can only do it once a year and active play helps kids learn.

READ
The Survival Guide to Bullying: Written by a Kid, for a Kid, by Aija Mayrock
Why? This practical eBook really speaks to kids in a way only a peer can. It’s honest, heartfelt and provides practical tools for coping with bullying. We love its central theme about the power of positivity.

SURF
talkwithourkidsaboutmoney.com
Why? Because November is financial literacy month in Canada and your kids have a lot to learn.

APP
Jonty: The Dinosaur Who Could Not Go to Sleep
Why? We like the just-for-them touches in this interactive bedtime storybook, like the beginner’s level lettering and simple navigation—perfect for kids just learning to read. The goal of the game is to help Jonty the dinosaur get to sleep…we keep hoping the kids will pick up some pointers.

GREEN IT
Slow down
Why? Because speeding can lower your gas mileage by 33% at highway speeds and by 5% around town. It’s also safer.

MAKE
A moustache cake for Movember
Why? Because everybody loves moustaches these days and baking a funny cake is a great activity to do with the kids.

HELP
Raise awareness and funds for visually impaired Albertans by participating in the Sight Night run on November 15
Why? This isn’t your usual run—it’s after dark and seeing is optional! Participants with and without vision will run together, but headlamps will be provided for safety.