8 Santa-Approved Last-Minute Christmas Gifts
8 Santa-Approved Last-Minute Christmas Gifts By Sarjae Irving Christmas is around the corner and you thought you had everything under control. However, you somehow lost a few weeks to school functions, work parties, neighbourhood get-togethers, cookie swaps, and other holiday events, and now you're in full-on panic mode. You need gifts. And fast. If you think you need a good old-fashioned Christmas miracle to pull it all off, don’t worry we are here to help. LG StanbyME Rollable Smart Touch Screen Dads are some of the hardest people to shop for, but most dads love a tech gift. The LG StanbyME Rollable Smart Touch Screen is not only great for Dad but for the entire family. It’s rollable, allowing you to move it from one room to another due to its wireless design — you can use it to watch movies, do a workout, follow a recipe and more! The screen is fully adjustable, you can tilt and rotate it to your preference and the LG StanbyME also plays well with your other devices and can connect via NFC, AirPlay or through USB or HDMI ports. It has an easy-to-use touch screen which is great for opening apps, pausing videos and more! When the screen is out of reach, a handy remote lets you stay in control from the comfort of your seat. Additionally, it will last up to three hours on a single charge. You can pick this up at lg.ca Cineplex Holiday Gift Bundle The Cineplex Holiday Gift Bundle is an excellent gift to give. If you spend $50 CAD or more on a Cineplex Gift Card, you get a holiday gift bundle for free, which has up to $60 CAD in movie extras including free admission, free popcorn, and movie ticket upgrades! Pick it up at any Cineplex location or at cineplex.com Green & Black’s premium organic chocolate For stuffing stockings, chocolate is a must! Green & Black's premium organic chocolate has a new smooth line, just in time for the holiday season. The line bridges the gap between dark and milk chocolate and includes Plain and Mint 50% Cocoa flavours, boasting a five on the intensity scale, which is a perfect stepping stone for chocolate lovers interested in transitioning to higher percentages of cocoa, while still experiencing mid-range intensity and sweetness. The entire Green & Black line has so many delicious flavours you’ll be snacking throughout this festive season. These can also make great hosting
Navigating the Holidays After Divorce: 3 Steps to a Fresh Start
Navigating the Holidays After Divorce: 3 Steps to a Fresh Start by Sarjae Irving While Christmas is often filled with joy, love and family celebrations, it can get complicated when navigating a new divorce. Every Hallmark movie might idealize the holidays as a picture-perfect season but the reality is separation is a part of many Canadians’ lives. Still, this doesn’t mean you still can’t have an amazing Christmas with your family — it’s just that the transition from shared household to divided festivities requires proper planning to ensure a positive experience for all involved. Here’s how. Be Proactive The first tip on navigating the holidays is to take a proactive approach and create a schedule, says Dr. Vinita Puri a Toronto-based registered Social Worker, Accredited Family Mediator, Coach and Consultant with expertise in educational training and group facilitation. “Preparation and mutual respect is key when creating an effective co-parenting schedule, especially around the time of the holidays,” she says. The schedule could include sharing the actual holiday, for instance, one parent gets the child on Christmas Eve and the other on Christmas Day or alternating the holidays each year. Another tip is to practice self-care. “You’re also trying to navigate loss, pain, and grief. Self-care is extremely important when going through divorce and even more so stressful around the time of the holidays,” says Dr. Puri, who also encourages newly divorced parents to set expectations. “This way, the child/children are aware and understand that this is the new reality,” she says.“It may be difficult, but these steps can be taken to ease the transition, along with surrounding yourself with loved ones and creating new traditions.” Plan to attend or not The concept of honour and shame may be a cultural factor that newly divorced parents take into consideration when it pertains to invitations to holiday events that involve both parents. In essence, there is still a lot of stigma and shame around divorce in many communities. “If divorced parents are a part of the same circle where people accept that divorce is normal and that people may no longer be compatible, the divorce should not be a hindering factor of whether to attend a holiday event,” says Dr. Puri. She further emphasized that once the divorced parents themselves are willing and able to control their emotions, she would encourage both parents to attend and/or continue to host holiday gatherings. Practice Self-Care When trying to navigate the holidays as a newly
Top 6 Gifts for Everyone On Your List
Top 6 Gifts for Everyone On Your List by Rachel Naud It’s here! It’s the busiest time of the year and to make it easier for you, we’ve hand-selected a list *and checked it twice!* of amazing gift ideas for everyone on your list from toddlers and tweens to teens and more! la Vie en Rose For those cozy moments by the fire or during meaningful gatherings with loved ones, la Vie en Rose has the perfect gift – luxurious and comfortable PJs. They come gift-ready and beautifully wrapped in a variety of prints and fabrics. There's nothing better than wrapping yourself in a brand-new cozy robe, and with more than 30 options to choose from, you can find the perfect one at your local la Vie en Rose. Paw Patrol Lookout Tower When it comes to snagging the season’s hottest toys, Toys R Us has got you covered with an amazing selection and fantastic deals. Whether you're on the hunt for Play-Doh, Hasbro games, or more, you can score up to 40% off on select brands. Plus, the store will price-match everything in the Toy Book until December 24th. One of Toys R Us' top picks is the Paw Patrol Lookout Tower. This tower is a dream for any Paw Patrol fan, complete with two Chase action figures and one police rescue cruiser—everything they need for a high-speed rescue mission. For an extra dose of excitement, bring the kids to the store for demos of top toys like this one. They're welcome to test the toys out for themselves. Grab it in-store or online at toysrus.ca Schick Hydro Sensitive Razor Everyone wants to look and feel their best, especially over the holidays. These grooming gifts from Schick are great for everyone in the house, including men and women! The men can get the Schick Hydro Sensitive because this razor is designed to pamper and care for your face, with cushioning gel pools and Skin Guards on every blade to protect against irritation while crafting your look. The 7 gel pools are enriched with aloe and Pro-Vitamin B5 to soothe and hydrate your skin for maximum comfort. The women can get the Schick Hydro Silk set because the curve-sensing blades give a close shave with a heavier, premium metal handle for grip and precision. The set also includes two refills and 3 of the Schick Hydro Silk Touch-Up razors. You can grab both of these sets at major retailers
4 Trendy Gift Ideas That’ll Impress Your Tweens and Teens
4 Trendy Gift Ideas That'll Impress Your Tweens and Teens by Rachel Naud Tweens and Teens can be hard to shop for with fads that come and go faster than those eye rolls they give you on the daily! This season, surprise them with everything they’ll love whether they’re fashionistas, sneakerheads, gamers or more! For the Gamer With the holiday season just around the corner, who else is looking forward to their annual family reunion? The Nintendo Switch system is a great way for the entire family to play together. The Nintendo Switch – Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle is a perfect choice, featuring a Nintendo Switch with the fan-favourite game Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and a 3-Month Nintendo Switch Online Individual Membership. Fun fact: did you know that you can double your courses in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe? Well, you can with the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Booster Course Pass DLC! This downloadable content (available separately) adds a whopping 48 extra courses, including the crowd-favourite – Mute City. You can grab The Nintendo Switch - Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle at most major retailers and nintendo.ca for $399.99 – a savings value of just under $90! You can download the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Booster Course Pass for $32.99. For the Athlete For the ultimate sneakerhead in your household, we have the hottest new shoe to add to their holiday wish list. Gift them the Curry 11 Future Curry from Under Armour and the Curry Brand. The UA Intellilknit makes it lightweight, comfortable, and breathable and the flow cushioning provides comfort that is super light, bouncy and has insane grip. And for those teens constantly on the move, the Under Armour Unstoppable ½ zip sweater is an ideal choice for a cool and cozy look. Its breathable and comfortable design makes it suitable for different occasions, whether your teen wants to work out or spend some time with friends. Check out both of these items at ua.ca. For the Trendsetter Winter is all about the accessories. ‘Tis the season to rock those stylish hats, gloves, and earmuffs, and Joe Fresh has the perfect holiday lineup. Not only are these accessories stylish, but they also double as fantastic gifts and stocking stuffers for the fashionista teen on your list. Joe Fresh offers a variety of on-trend styles: from the classic charm of pearl gloves and berets to the playful vibes of their lavender sequin gloves and beanie combo. And of
Why you should make gifting for good your next holiday tradition
Why you should make gifting for good your next holiday tradition The holiday season is a time to reflect on the year behind us and also think ahead to new possibilities. As we consider what we’re grateful for, it can bring us joy to give back to others. The generosity of heart and opportunities to pay it forward are important parts of life, no matter what stage we’re in. Raising kind kids who want to make a difference in the world is a rewarding aspect of parenthood. One way to engage the family in giving back is to include the kids in choosing causes to support. Why not start a holiday wish list that goes beyond material things and inspires giving gifts that have the ability to change lives for children just like yours? Coming together in the holiday spirit and making a commitment to others can be the start of a feel-good tradition that is educational, grounding and even bonding – a win-win scenario! As parents of tweens and teens, we want the best for our kids, which extends to parents all around the world. Education is the most empowering and inspirational gift for children of all ages, but unfortunately, access to education isn’t always equal. Canadian charity, Children Believe, plays a part in the lives of more than 1.2 million children and youth worldwide. Each year, it releases a specially curated Believe Book with plenty of Gifts for Good Inspiration, starting at just $25. Each item is designed to help children and their families overcome barriers to education, something that not only changes their lives – but opens their world of opportunities, too. To inspire your family’s Gifts for Good choices, here are three examples that help children choose their own life path, dream fearlessly and be a voice for change: Empowering Girls From inspiring girls to pursue STEM education to helping young women become leaders within their communities, there are many ways sending a girl to school can have a big impact. Educated girls who are actively in the classroom invest 90 per cent of their income back into their children’s health, education, and communities. These girls are also three times less likely to marry before the age of 18 compared to girls with no education. Through curated workshops and resources, girls are equipped with the tools they need to succeed and change their world for the better. Life-changing Livestock Did you know that one of
New York Christmas: 5 Ways to Capture the Holiday Magic with Your Teen
5 Ways to Capture the Holiday Magic in NYC with Your Teen by Rachel Naud Picture this: you and your teen stepping into a winter wonderland right in the heart of New York City — it's the start of a holiday adventure like no other. As a parent, you're on a mission to make this trip not just enjoyable but downright unforgettable for both you and your teen. The key is to craft an experience that resonates with them, creating moments they'll look back on with a smile. Here are 5 places to create an unforgettable family holiday at the Big Apple. See the Tree: Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Behold the splendour of NYC's cherished Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Lit daily from 5PM to midnight, this magnificent tree comes to life during its grand lighting ceremony on November 29th, setting the stage for festive joy. On Christmas Day, its radiance brightens the city for a whole 24 hours, and the magic lingers until January 13th at 10PM. The tree is adorned with 50,000 multi-coloured LED lights and crowned by a spectacular three-dimensional 900-pound Swarovski star, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind in 2018. When to Experience the Magic:Daily from 5AM to midnight until January 13 at 10PM. View the live national broadcast “Christmas at Rockefeller Center” from home on NBC, on November 29th, 8PM EST. Stay in Style: NH Collection New York Madison Avenue Selecting the right accommodation can set the tone for your entire trip. NH Collection New York Madison Avenue, nestled on the historic Madison Avenue, offers more than just a place to rest. This 100-year-old red brick building not only encapsulates the essence of New York's advertising legacy but also boasts modern luxury with a serious Mad Men vibe. Awarded the title of Luxury Travel Advisor's 2022 "Most Instagrammable Hotel" in North America, the hotel blends avant-garde design with a prime location, placing you within walking distance of iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Times Square and Central Park. Before you and your teen begin your day exploring, fuel up at Serafina Restaurant with its elaborate European-style breakfast buffet, complete with freshly baked pastries, meats, cheeses and fresh eggs made to order. In the evening, this is the place for delicious pasta and pizza, with portions to please any hungry teen. Afterwards, sit at the MAD Bar & Lounge and sip on a cocktail themed from the 50s and 60s while your teen instagrams his
Nurture Your Teens’ Digital Wellbeing on TikTok This School Year
Nurturing Your Teens' Digital Wellbeing on TikTok This School Year: Tips and Tricks from an Expert by Tracy Elizabeth As a former educator, a mother and TikTok's Head of Family Safety & Developmental Health, I know firsthand what it’s like to face the evolving challenges of raising children in today's media-saturated world. As a parent, I find real comfort in and take pride in being part of TikTok's infallible commitment to fostering a safer and more positive online environment for all families. At TikTok, my team and I are constantly working to implement evidence-based policies that prioritize the safety and positive development of the teens who use our platform. In our collaborations with trusted partners, such as the Digital Wellness Lab, the Technology Coalition and Thorn, we continually ask ourselves important questions: How can we protect teens while allowing their creativity to flourish unchecked? What tools can we provide to parents and caregivers to empower them in guiding their teens' digital experiences? How can we share our knowledge with parents and caregivers of teens to ensure they, too, feel confident about our platform? To that end, here are five things parents and caregivers can do to nurture their teen’s well-being on TikTok. Know the rules, use the tools Teens will be teens, and today’s teens tend to use social media. If you don’t already have a TikTok account, set one up and learn how to use it together. Our digital Guardian Guide gives parents and caregivers an overview of TikTok and the many tools and controls we’ve built into it to keep our community safe. Put the ‘talk’ in TikTok Adolescence is a time for exploration, and teens are naturally curious about different communities and connecting with a variety of topics. Rather than having them go it alone, be part of that exploration! Try hosting candid family conversations about the ways in which your teen engages online, including and beyond TikTok. This will help bolster their sense of digital citizenship and empower them to be mindful of their own safety on the internet. Pair up! Family Safety Mode links a parent's TikTok account to their teen's and makes it possible to guide their digital well-being. With Screen Time Management, parents and caregivers can limit how much time their teen can spend on the app each day. It also lets parents and caregivers limit who can send messages to their teen, turn direct messaging off altogether, and restrict the appearance of
5 Halloween Activities to Enjoy With Your Teen Around Toronto
5 Halloween Activities to Enjoy with Your Teen Around Toronto by Arianne Granada As October's crisp air settles in, it's time to kick off the spooky season. Don’t worry if your teen insists they're too grown-up for costumes and trick-or-treating—there are plenty of ways for your family to dive into the Halloween spirit together. These Halloween activities can make for awesome parent-teen date nights. So, if you're on the hunt for thrilling alternatives to the classic trick-or-treating, you're in for a treat. Here are 5 Halloween activities around Toronto and the GTA for you and your teen. Casa Loma: Legends of Horror Perfect for Teens and Fun Family Halloween Night Imagine stepping into history with a dash of the supernatural at Casa Loma's "Legends of Horror." This isn't your typical haunted house; it's an immersive theatrical wonderland. This October, Casa Loma will be transformed into an eerie playground. You and your teen can stroll through a 2km trail, winding through the castle's hidden tunnels and the darkest corners of the estate. During this hour-long adventure, you'll find yourselves immersed in meticulously designed sets in gardens and chambers, where characters come to life right before your eyes. The grand finale is a jaw-dropping 3D projection on the castle's exterior to make the story seamlessly blend in with the castle walls. Location: Casa Loma - 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto (Entrance at Walmer and Davenport) Dates: September 29 to October 31, 2023 Tickets: Get yours here Pumpkins After Dark in Milton Fun Family Halloween Night When it comes to family-friendly Halloween fun, Pumpkins After Dark in Milton is an absolute must-visit. Imagine over 10,000 hand-carved pumpkins illuminating your path as you walk through this mesmerizing outdoor experience. Located at Country Heritage Park in Milton, this event runs from September 23 to October 1, offering a perfect opportunity for a family outing to ignite that Halloween spirit in your teens and yourself. Location: Country Heritage Park, Milton Dates: September 23 to October 1, 2023 Tickets: Grab yours here Canada's Wonderland: Halloween Haunt Thrilling Parent-Teen Date Night If you're in search of a thrilling night out with your teen, Canada's Wonderland has just the ticket—literally. They transform the amusement park into a scream park during their annual Halloween Haunt, complete with seven spine-chilling mazes, terrifying scare zones, and hundreds of monstrous creatures lurking in the shadows. This year, don't miss the new additions: "Dark Ride," a maze set in an abandoned carnival attraction, and "Trick or Treat Street," a twisted Halloween street party. The entertainment
5 Reasons to Visit Croatia With Your Kids
5 Reasons to Visit Croatia With Your Kids By Rosalind Stefanac With a population of only four million, Croatia may be relatively tiny compared to other countries, but it packs a punch as a vacation destination. Situated in southeastern Europe, Croatia has gained popularity as a tourist hotspot for excellent reasons. Whether it's exploring Roman ruins, hiking alongside waterfalls, or plunging into its crystal-clear, azure sea, Croatia offers enough natural beauty and kid-friendly activities to keep the whole brood engaged. Our first visit to Croatia took place when my sons were little. Upon returning as teenagers, they relished the opportunity to do some exploring on their own while we savoured the breathtaking scenery. Here are some of the reasons why Croatia stands out as a top choice for family travel: Swimming in the Adriatic Sea Croatia boasts an extensive coastline along the stunning Adriatic Sea. This body of water is renowned for its calm currents and warm temperatures, making it an ideal destination for activities like swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and diving. Sailing is a popular pastime, or you can opt to rent a motorboat and explore the local islands yourself. We joined an all-day fishing boat excursion where the boys were able to jump off the rails and swim and snorkel at their leisure. The crew even prepared a fresh fish lunch using their catch of the day. While on the northern coast's island of Mali Losinj, you might even catch a glimpse of a dolphin or two. Just be sure to pack water shoes (or buy them there) as stone beaches are the norm throughout Croatia. Island hopping Although Croatia often touts itself as the "land of 1,000 islands," it actually boasts 1,244 islands, islets, and rock formations, of which 48 are inhabited, and one has a heart-shaped configuration (my personal favourite!). The island of Cres is the largest and well worth exploring, but be sure to add Kornati National Park to your list, too. This cluster of 89 uninhabited islands, islets, reefs (and cliffs) are perfect for exploring on a day trip. This is island hopping at its best. Hiking through waterfalls and mountains Croatia offers a multitude of hiking and biking trails of all levels. Near the capital city of Zagreb, you'll discover numerous marked hiking trails leading up to the Sljeme peak on Medvenica mountain, which stands at 1,035 meters above sea level. We also ventured to Krka National Park on the coast, renowned
Mental Health and the Back-To-School Transition
Mental Health and the Back-To-School Transition By Emmett Wells, LCSW, Clinical Director at Embark Behavioral Health in Greenwood Village, CO The back-to-school season marks a significant shift in the lives of children and young people. As students return to the structured academic year this fall, they not only face the demands of coursework but also the responsibility and social pressures. Amid the ongoing youth mental health crisis in the United States, it's crucial for families to communicate and lean on each other. This transition can bring both positive and negative effects. It offers opportunities for growth and learning but can also trigger mood swings, heightened anxiety, and depression in young individuals. To effectively support adolescents during this crucial time, parents and caregivers must adapt to the unique challenges their children may encounter. Active Listening and Relationship Building During this back-to-school transition, active listening is crucial. Parents and caregivers should be prepared for conversations that might be challenging for their children. This could include discussions about academic stress, social dynamics, or personal struggles. By actively listening and creating a safe space for dialogue, caregivers can nurture a secure caregiver-child relationship. This relationship provides a foundation for adolescents to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns without fear of judgment. It's within these safe spaces that young people are more likely to open up about their struggles, making it easier for parents to provide the support they need. Cultivating Positive Habits for Youth Mental Health Positive habits play a pivotal role in the mental well-being of anxious or depressed youth as they return to school. These habits not only help in managing academic and social responsibilities but also serve as valuable life skills. Establishing routines that incorporate healthy practices is an excellent starting point. These routines can include consistent sleep schedules, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise. Such practices contribute to physical well-being, which, in turn, positively impacts mental health. Encouraging children to participate in after-school activities aligned with their interests and passions can foster a sense of community, providing much-needed emotional support and a sense of belonging. Moreover, dedicating time to develop coping skills is essential. Adolescents should be equipped with effective strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges. This can include mindfulness exercises, deep breathing techniques, or seeking professional guidance when necessary. Parental Engagement and Adaptability Parental involvement in a child's education is a delicate balancing act. Encouraging independence while offering support can establish healthy boundaries without becoming overly involved. As adolescents