Opinion, Products they'll love

5 Summer Starter Pack Essentials by Rachel NaudBring on summer! Whether you’re road-tripping, going to the cottage, hosting friends over or enjoying some downtime alone, we have your Summer Starter Pack. Rachel Naud, editor of INBETWEEN magazine, a digital magazine geared to parents of teens, has ideas to get you through the summer no matter what your plans.Canadian Club Ready-To-Drink Cocktails What’s better than a cold drink on the dock or sharing some drinks with friends at a backyard party? I love having my girls over in the summer and this season, I’m serving them Canadian Club Ready-To-Drink Cocktails! I love the Canadian Club Ginger Ale, its an award-winning cooler! It won a Gold Medal at the 2024 International Wine & Spirits Competition! This pre-mixed cocktail expertly blends the smooth honeyed notes of grain and spice of Canadian Club whisky with the sweet, candied notes of ginger ale. Citrus Smash also just launched this year, and it just might be your drink of the summer because the citrus perfectly complements the zesty and sweet notes of Canadian Club whisky for a balanced, refreshing beverage. Both are proudly Canadian, which I love! You can check them out at www.CanadianClub.com or follow them at @CanadianClub on Instagram.Sensodyne Clinical White Every summer, I go and visit my mom in Winnipeg. I like to stay there for a bigger chunk of time because it’s kind of the only time I get to see her for any extended length. Because I’m there for a while, I like to bring the comforts of home with me, especially my toothpaste. I have sensitive teeth, which doesn’t bode well with my ice cream addiction unless I use my Sensodyne. It’s the #1 Dentist Recommended brand for sensitive teeth and ​developed by scientists. Now, they've just launched a new product Sensodyne Clinical White, which features  24/7 sensitivity protection in an enamel-safe formula, and clinically proven to get your teeth up to two shades whiter. I love that it's gentle enough for everyday use, protects against cavities and tastes great too! Fresh breath, a brighter smile and no more flinching with every bite of ice cream? Yes please. Billie Starter Kit Summer is when we break out the shorts and swimsuits and that calls for a smooth shave! To make the experience luxe, Billie offers premium-quality shaving products at an affordable price and empowers women by emphasizing that shaving is their choice. That’s why I

Teen Health/Fitness

7 Self-Help Books to Meet You Where Life Hurts By Bob Kerr Real talk: Life hurts. Although the stigma surrounding mental health prevails, more and more people are opening up about their struggles on social media. Not only that, store shelves are teeming with self-help books for facing life's challenges, healing trauma and feeling less alone. Suffice to say, we are spoiled for choice.  And that can be a problem. I mean, which of the hundreds of books on ADHD am I supposed to get? Soon my task paralysis kicks in and I’m staring at the shelves like I’m locked in a caffeinated trance! If you’re like me, don’t worry; I got you covered. Here’s a list of 7 self-help books based on your life’s challenges.   Let Them Mel Robbins, Sawyer Robbins Mel Robbins has become a household name in the self-help realm and it’s no wonder. Between her podcast (aptly named The Mel Robbins Podcast) and writing numerous top-selling books and audiobooks, we might as well say that this is a Mel Robbins world and we’re all living in it.  Let Them is the latest book from Mel Robbins and it’s primarily about letting go.  Why you should read it: To bring more clarity into your life as to what to give your energy to and what not to.  Key messages: Giving power to other people is what keeps you feeling stuck and fearing judgment You can’t change the people in your life Let Them is about releasing the control other people have on you; Let Me is recognizing the power you have over your own lifeWhy it will help you: Understanding that we give a lot of our own power to people who hurt us can really relieve the stress and pain that we inflict on ourselves. Then once we stop giving away that power, we can focus it on healthier and stronger things. Indigo: $39.99  The ADHD Focus Friend By Grace Koelma When it comes to mental health, ADHD has really stepped into the limelight. While more and more self-help books are pouring in on the subject, it can be challenging to find the right one.  The ADHD Focus Friend by Grace Koelma gets our pick for her colourful and creative approach to those living with ADHD. It's a complete stand-out when it comes to ADHD and she knows her audience extremely well.  Why you should read it: Half-book and half-ADHD-planner, this is an excellent tool for anyone with ADHD who wants to

Parenting Experience

5 Ways to Manifest Anything You Want! A Guide for Parents Raising the Next Generation of Dreamers By Kathleen CameronYou’re making lunches, answering school emails, driving to soccer, and negotiating curfews… and somewhere in between the chaos of parenting a tween or teen, you’ve probably paused and asked yourself: “Is this it? Is there room for my dreams in all of this?” Spoiler alert: YES.And even better—you can manifest anything you want, and you don’t have to wait until the kids are off to college to start. In fact, you can start now, right here in your yoga pants, hair in a bun, while folding laundry. Manifestation isn’t just vision boards and moon water (though we love those too). It’s a lifestyle, a mindset, and a magnet for more of what you actually want—whether that’s deeper patience, a raise, dream vacations, or a better connection with your teenager. Let’s break it down into 5 fun, fabulous, and totally doable steps—with real-life examples and parenting tips to inspire your inner creator (yes, she still exists).Step 1: Get Crystal Clear on What You Actually Want Before the Universe can deliver, you’ve got to place your order. Vague desires = vague results. Instead of  “I want more money,” try “I desire an extra $1,000 this month to pay for summer camp without stress.” Pro Tip: This is a perfect moment to model intentionality for your tween or teen. Let them hear you say things like: “I’m working on manifesting a calm, fun family vacation this summer. I’m setting the intention now!” It may sound woo-woo to them at first, but you’re planting seeds of self-awareness and creative agency that’ll blossom later.Real-Life Mom Moment: Janelle, a mom of two middle schoolers, started writing “$3,000 extra income” in her journal daily. Within three weeks, she got a freelance gig she hadn’t applied for—recommended by a friend she hadn’t spoken to in months. Coincidence? Nah. Alignment? Absolutely.Try This:Write one specific desire on a sticky note and place it on your mirror. Say it aloud while brushing your teeth. Add emotion: “I feel so grateful and abundant knowing this is already mine.”Step 2: Align Your Energy With the End Result Once you know what you want, it’s time to match the vibe of that desire. You don’t manifest from your “overwhelmed, I have 17 tabs open in my brain” self. You manifest from your “I’ve got this, and I’m worth it” self. This step is

Products they'll love

7 Last-Minute Gifts That Mom Will Love By Cassandra JesikIt’s never too late to make this Mother's Day special. Whether she’s into self-care, crafting, or just needs some “me time” — we’ve got you covered with a collection of gifts just for mom! This list includes products from ELEMIS, Yves Rocher, and Canadian brands that mom will love, as seen in the 2025 CIRA Mother’s Day Gift Guide .Something SweetShow her your appreciation in the most delicious way possible! Fruit bouquets, macarons, and artisanal chocolates all have mom’s stamp of approval—and your mouth is probably watering just thinking about it. Choose an item made with premium ingredients and elegant packaging to elevate this classic gift idea. Sweet Flour’s Gourmet Gift Box is a great example, featuring 18 of their most popular cookie flavours, including chocolate chunk, red velvet, and white chocolate macadamia nut.Sweet Flour: $50.00Page-Turners Just for HerGive mom the chance to slow down, curl up, and escape into a story that’s all her own. Whether she loves romances, mysteries, or feel-good fiction, a good book offers some much deserved “me time.” Pick up a bestseller from her favorite genre or surprise her with something new—she’ll thank you when she can’t put it down! Need some inspiration? Broken Country is a new release that explores the haunting legacy of first love with passion, secrets, and plenty of time-crossing twists.   The Spaniel’s Tale: $26.99Help Her SparkleJewellery is the quintessential Mother's Day gift and for good reason! Pieces made with quality materials will dazzle for decades, serving as a memento that mom can carry close to the heart. For added meaning, pick a gemstone that reflects her personality, birth month, or favourite colour. This Dainty Labradorite Minimalist Necklace by Beads Bangles & Bows is a great example. It features a labradorite stone that shimmers blue, green, and gold. Each piece is unique, with natural variations in shape and colour, making it one-of-a-kind, just like mom!Beads Bangles & Bows: $43.25Her New Signature ScentA thoughtfully chosen perfume is a gift that lasts—and everytime she wears it, she’ll think of you! Consider which fragrances she wears and enjoys. The gift will be even more meaningful if it reflects her individual taste and personality. For a classic, feminine favourite, try Comme une Evidence by Yves Rocher. This fragrance has a delicate floral aroma that embodies moments of clarity and calm… and moments like these are hard to

Education, Expert Advice, Parenting Experience, Teen Health/Fitness, Uncategorized

8 Signs You May Be Low in Iron By Dr. Jennifer Zelovitzky, MDDid you know that February 13 was World Anemia Day? It often goes unnoticed as it’s overshadowed by the romantic celebrations of Valentine’s Day just a day later. Luckily, raising awareness about iron deficiency and anemia doesn't have an expiration date—so let’s talk iron. Iron is a vital mineral that helps fuel your body with oxygen. Without enough of it, you could experience adverse health effects like fatigue, weakened immunity, and organ damage over time. But knowing whether your iron levels are just right is not that simple: symptoms of iron deficiency are often subtle—you or your teen may be experiencing a deficiency without even knowing it. If left untreated, iron deficiency can worsen and lead to serious health issues. That’s why it’s crucial to be aware of the signs of iron deficiency early on to prevent any further complications. Being low in iron doesn’t automatically mean anemia, a condition in which the number of red blood cells is lower than normal. First, let’s define both: Iron deficiency occurs when your body doesn’t have enough iron stored. Iron is stored in a protein called ferritin, which is measured in the bloodstream. Iron deficiency anemia goes a step further: low iron results in fewer healthy red blood cells, which means less oxygen circulating through your body. While both conditions are serious, anemia requires more immediate medical attention because it directly affects your body's ability to deliver oxygen. The good news? There are ways to prevent and manage both iron deficiency and anemia, such as eating iron-rich foods, taking iron supplements, and staying ahead of the symptoms, which can help keep your levels in check and your body functioning at its best.Signs You May Have Low Iron Feeling drained? Dizzy? Dealing with brittle nails? These could all be red flags that your iron levels are low. Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia are more common than you might think, especially among teens and women. If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to check your iron levels:Feeling tired all the time (even after a good night’s sleep) Dizziness or lightheadedness Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity Pale skin or dark circles under the eyes Brittle nails that break easily Hair thinning or shedding more than usual Cold hands and feet Frequent headachesWho’s Most at Risk for Low Iron? The body absorbs certain types of iron differently. Some

Expert Advice, Products they'll love, Teen Life, Trending

Christmas Gift Ideas for the 3 T's: Toddlers, Tweens and Teens by Rachel Naud    There are so many gift ideas on the market, it can be overwhelming choosing the right one for the 3 T's in your life – toddlers, tweens and teens!   After all, you want to hit all the key elements to a fun toy for the littles — one that appeals to their sensory, creativity and development! And tweens and teens? Pick the wrong gift and cue the eye rolls! Parents need help navigating this tricky season of gift giving and we are here to help!   For ToddlersWe love this toy, coming out of Moose Toys, because it combines everything I loved as a child – the comfort of a stuffed buddy with the scent of your favourite frozen treat!  This toy is like magic! The Cookeez Makery comes with everything children need to mix and create a surprise frozen treat. First, they mix the ingredients. Then, using the dough mould and decorations, kids can make their own Freezy Cake. Next, pop it in the fridge and shut the door. In 20 seconds, kids will hear a "ding". It's time to open the fridge and meet a new friend. Wow! A shivering and deliciously scented plush toy that's interactive to play with. There are three deliciously scented friends to choose from, including Strawberry Unicake, Minty Polar Bear and Tiger Berry Ripple!  This cool gift is undoubtedly going to be hot this season and you can grab it at most major toy retailers! And also, for the little ones who are a fan of Bluey – the adorable Blue Heeler, The Tile Town Bluey Heeler Home is a gift that will keep them engaged and entertained as they can build Bluey’s home!   For TweensWhen choosing a gift for your child, you want something that they will not only like in that moment but something that will keep them engaged for years to come. This year, parents and gift-givers can find amazing gifts for kids at Staples Canada that they can feel good about giving.  With the Staples Kids Learn + Play collection, Staples is giving parents gifting options that inspire young minds, spark curiosity and will keep them engaged far beyond the day they open the box. You can find gifts for kids of all ages from brands you love and trust, including LEGO, Crayola, Play-Doh and more. And if you can’t get to a Staples

Expert Advice, Products they'll love, Trending, WORK WITH US

4 Places to Get Your Last-Minute Christmas Gifts by Rachel Naud   This year, if you’re asking Santa for more time to get your shopping done, we’re here to help! We know between finishing up work, school concerts, holiday parties and decorating, finding time to shop can be impossible. But if the days have slipped away from you and you just realized you have more shopping items to pick up than days left before Christmas, we've got you covered with some last-minute gift ideas for everyone on your list!   Children BelieveAs parents of teens, we always want to instill the value of giving back every holiday season. Sometimes this means dropping random gift cards in strangers’ mailboxes and sometimes this means researching different charities to give back to and deciding on one together.  If you have a teen coming home from university, we're sure you're excited to get in the kitchen and cook for them and share a delicious and nutritious meal together. And while we may take this for granted, there are many children who go hungry. In fact, every 10 seconds a child loses their life to malnutrition  — that’s over 3 million a year! That’s why, this year, it's a good idea to support Children Believe and its initiative to support children in communities that need it most by purchasing school meals. We also love this as a gift idea for that person who values helping others in need, as you can make a donation in their name!  Canadians are very giving people and even despite the current economic climate, a survey conducted by Children Believe found that 3 in 4 Canadians would choose to actively purchase a gift to help others and make a difference. Check it out here.HomeSense  This is the time of year when we’re often getting together for cocktail parties, dinners and parties. If you’ve ever hosted a holiday soiree, you know how much work it is, which is why it's nice to bring a gift to the hostess and host of the party to show my gratitude and appreciation. It's always fun to find gifts that are unique and that the hostess will love — and use! — long after everyone goes home for the night.  The first place to go to find some amazing gifts is HomeSense because you can pick up some quality décor and entertaining essentials at amazing prices. And the best part? You don’t have to sacrifice