Vist the Library: Mother's Day Books Ideas

May 13 is Mother’s Day, and to celebrate, here are some lovely picture books that showcase mothers in all their wonderful and loving diversity. Whether you’re a birth mother or adoptive mother, stepmother, grandmother, foster mother, auntie, or any other incredible mother figure, this booklist is for you!

My New Mom & Me By Renata Galindo 

Motherhood takes many forms, and this beautiful picture celebrates the bond between an adoptive mother and her new child. Puppy is worried because he looks different from his new mother, but she reassures him that what really matters is the love that they share for each other.

Love, Mama by Jeanette Bradley

Being apart can be hard for both little ones and their mothers. This new release reassures children of the strength of their mamas’ love for them, and reminds them that no matter where they and their mamas might be, they are always loved. This is a particularly meaningful book for mamas who work outside of the home, especially if their work involves travel.  

The Mommy Book by Todd Parr 

Mommies come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, colours and styles, but they are all wonderful and they all love their babies! Todd Parr brings his signature colourful artwork and child-friendly text to this celebration of motherhood in all its diversity. 

Stella Brings the Fami;y by Miriam B. Schiffer

Stella’s feeling a bit worried about who to bring to her class’ Mother’s Day celebration. After all, she has two daddies and no mommy! With a bit of help from her family, Stella realizes that she has many maternal figures in her life who do all the wonderful things that other kids’ mommies do for them. A warmly inclusive title that celebrates the diversity of modern families, and highlights the role of maternal figures.

Mommy’s Khimar by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow

A little girl watches her mommy in her beautiful khimar, and as she plays dress-up with her mother’s headscarves, she’s reminded more and more of her mother’s radiant love for her. An adorable picture book that celebrates the special bond between mothers and daughters. 

Llama, Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney

Few authors understand the special bond between mamas and their babies better than Anna Dewdney. This classic picture book, which introduces the wonderful Llama Llama, is sure to make little ones smile, and their mamas laugh! As Mama Llama reassures her baby, "Mama Llama's always near, even if she's not right here”. 

Jane Whittingham is a librarian, author and book blogger whose debut picture book, Wild One, was published by Pajama Press in 2017. You can read more of her work on her website, www.raincitylibrarian.ca.

UBT April Booklist all about Dance, Dance, Dance!

April 29 is International Dance Day! Dance plays an important role in cultures all around the world, and can be a powerful means of self-expression. Dance can also be a great way to incorporate more healthy movement into our increasingly sedentary lives. Celebrate dance with these beautiful dance-themed picture books that offer great opportunities for children to develop executive function skills by following instructions, while having a toe-tapping good time.

How Can You Dance? by Rick Walton (Author),‎ Escriva Lopez (Illustrator)
This joyous rhyming picture book will have youngsters tapping and jumping, skipping and spinning like their favourite animals, using their imaginations and working off some of that seemingly inexhaustible energy!

Dancing Feet! by Lindsey Craig (Author),‎ Marc Brown (Illustrator)
Wiggly toddlers won’t be able to resist this bouncy rhythm! Great words (Stompity! Thumpity!), a toe-tapping beat, and a fun predicative element make this animal-themed

Farmyard Beat by Lindsey Craig (Author),‎ Marc Brown (Illustrator) 

Catch the farmyard beat with this delightful picture book from the same team that brought us Dancing Feet! No one on the farm can sleep because they’ve all got the beat! But what happens when all that grooving and dancing wakes up the farmer? Tiny dancers will want to bop and move along with this perfect crowd pleaser.

Dinosaur Dance! by Sandra Boynton (Author, Illustrator) 

The dinosaur dance party is about to start, and everyone’s invited! Shimmy shimmy shake and  quivery quake along with these adorable pastel dinosaurs who really know how to movie. Another winner from board book expert Sandra Boynton. 

Clap Your Hands by Lorinda Bryan Cauley (Author) 

This rhyming picture book offers plenty of opportunities for children to practice following instructions, which is an important part of ensuring school readiness. It’s also charmingly illustrated, and a whole lot of fun,

Music Class Today! by David Weinstone (Author),‎ Vin Vogel (Illustrator) 

Music class is so much fun, but for one small child, all that noise is overwhelming! With some patience, reassurance, and plenty of love, though, even the most hesitant of young musicians can find their rhythm. This sweetly illustrated picture book is perfectly reassuring for any children who might be nervous about starting a new class, program or activity. 

Jane Whittingham is a librarian and picture book author whose debut book, Wild One, was released by Pajama Press in 2017. You can find more of her writing on her blog at www.raincitylibrarian.ca

Easter Books for Young Readers

Bunnies and baskets and chocolate, oh my! Easter is coming, and what better way to celebrate than with beautiful picture books? Picture books are always the perfect gift - much healthier, and longer lasting, than chocolate, that’s for sure!

Where Are Baby’s Easter Eggs? by Karen Katz
Experience the fun and excitement of an Easter egg hunt again and again with this colourful lift-the-flap book.

Spot’s First Easter by Eric Hill
Toddlers will love helping Spot find his hidden Easter eggs in this sweet lift-the-flap book.

That’s Not My Bunny by Fiona Watt
This Easter-themed entry in the popular “That’s Not My….” series offers bright colours, adorable illustrations, and textured patches for babies and toddlers to touch and feel.

The Itsy Bitsy Bunny by Jeffery Burton
The classic children’s song The Itsy Bitsy Spider gets a charming Easter make-over with this singable story about an Itsy Bitsy Easter Bunny!

Llama Llama Easter Egg by Anna Dewdney
Introduce the youngest readers to Llama Llama, the beloved hero of Anna Dewndey’s series of picture books, in this simple, rhyming board book adventure.

Biscuit’s Pet and Play Easter by Alyssa Satin Capucilli
Everyone’s favourite puppy is back in this toddler-friendly touch and feel Easter board book filled with different textures and colours to explore.

UBT Review: Carousel Theatre for Young People’s The Velveteen Rabbit

This spring, the charming tale of The Velveteen Rabbit leaps onto the stage at Waterfront Theatre to celebrate the boundless imagination and the power of believing. As a young child did you have a toy that you absolutely loved? A blanket, a doll, or even a stuffed animal with one eye and who appeared to be rather tattered looking?

Carousel Theatre for Young People’s The Velveteen Rabbit brings a stage adaptation of Margery Williams’s beloved 1922 picture book, the play encourages children and adults of all ages to use their imagination as the three actors take the audience on a magical storytelling journey.

With a dash of magic, the three actors Steffanie Davis, Victor Mariano, and Amanda Testini transform their playspace into a children’s nursery with a rocking horse, a magic bed, a cavalcade of mechanical toys, a kind-hearted fairy and a toy rabbit who is transformed by one little boy’s love.

As the story opens the narrator explains how a boy receives a stuffed rabbit in his Christmas stocking. However, the little boy soon neglects the rabbit for flashier toys (which is still quite common with children today), but eventually the two friends find themselves together again. Despite some trials the rabbit and the boy, develop a loving friendship. And as the story progesses the rabbit starts to lose his fur and whiskers, and becomes real to the boy....becoming real is what all toys dream of.

With lots of funny jokes, puns, lively music and audience interaction you and your child are sure to be captiviated by the entire 55 minute performance.

The Velveteen Rabbit is recommended for ages 3–8 years and and their grown-up companions.
For more information or to book tickets click here. On the stage from March 3rd to March 25th, 2018.

About Carousel Theatre for Young People

CTYP provides playful, exceptional and accessible theatrical experiences that inspire, involve and educate. At Carousel Theatre for Young People we believe that the arts play a vital role in a young person’s development. Now in its 43rd season, CTYP has received multiple Jessie Awards, and is the only professional theatre company in BC that creates a mainstage season of plays specifically for young people.

UBT Spring Break Ideas for the Whole Family

The weather is getting nicer and the days are getting longer – this could only mean one thing – Spring is upon us! Make the most of your Spring Break this year and create some fun family memories by enjoying a variety of the following activities in the beautiful lower mainland.

Play Dome at BC Place
Playdome is a giant carnival and midway that takes place from March 28th to April 2nd, 2018. With rides and activities for all ages, you’ll get to check out Ferris Wheels, Tilt-a-Whirl, Haunted Houses and more!

2018 Tickets at the Gate are as follows:
Dome Pass – $35.02 (valid for all rides for 1 day)
Ultimate Pass – $65.00 (valid for all rides for all 6 days)
Guest Pass – $15.00 (for spectators with limited access to rides for 1 day)

2018 Tickets Purchased Online are as follows:
Dome Pass – $31.45 (valid for all rides for 1 day)
Ultimate Pass – $51.45 (valid for all rides for all 6 days)
Guest Pass – $10.45 (for spectators with limited access to rides for 1 day
More Info: www.bcplace.com/events/2018/playdome-2018 

Spring Break Festival at Evergreen Cultural Centre
March 20 - March 22: Take your children to the theatre this Spring Break! At the Evergreen Cultural Centre in Coquitlam, you’ll choose from 3 different performances – Robin Hood, Cinderella and Cendrillion – all presented by the DuffleBag Theatre company. The show is interactive and tons of fun for the whole family.
More Info: www.evergreenculturalcentre.ca/buy-tickets/2018-spring-break-festival

Junior Zoologist Camp at the Greater Vancouver Zoo 
This fun and interactive camp allows your child to spend time learning what it’s like to be a real zoologist! For kids ages 7-12, the camp runs from March 19-23 and you can sign up for between 1 and 5 days. You’ll get to meet animals up close, learn all about what animals eat, how different animals find their food, and more! Daily activities also include crafts, games, learning experiences, and interactions with zookeepers to give food and toys to the animals.
More Info: www.gvzoo.com/learn/jr-zoologist-camps/index.php 

Cheap Kids’ Movies at Spring Break
Various Theatres around the lower mainland are offering inexpensive and fun movie showings for your whole family

• Family Favourites Movies – $2.99 movies at select Cineplex theatres at 11 am on Saturday mornings.
• March Break Movies – the movies Wonder, Despicable Me, Ferdinand and The Boss Baby all show at select Lower Mainland Cineplex theatres for just $2.99 (March 19-23, 2018).
• March Movie Break – select movies show on weekdays at Landmark Cinemas in New Westminster from March 19th to 29th for just $3 each.
• Movies at Inlet Theatre – Despicable Me shows in Port Moody on Wednesday, March 21st, and Cars shows on Wednesday, March 28th.

Spring Break at Kidtropolis
A fun and interactive play centre that is modeled on city life – complete with a fire department, police station, restaurant, school and more! It allows kids to learn and play hands on, in a city environment for purposeful and fun learning experiences! Kidtropolis also offers Spring Break Camps for ages 5-12 years.
More Info: www.kidtropolis.ca/kids-camp-spring-break-camp 

PAW Patrol Live!: Race to the Rescue
If you have a young child that loves Marshall, Rubble, Chase and the whole Adventure Bay gang, be sure not to miss this fun interactive show. Meet the whole crew from the popular TV show from March 16-18 at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Vancouver. Tickets are available via ticketmaster.ca.
More Info: www.pawpatrollive.com

The Science Of Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Who doesn’t love the curiosity and incredulity of Mr. Ripley’s collection of artifacts and stories? Visit Science World this Spring Break and explore the cool collections, including the most extreme animals to have ever lived, the craziness of human biology and the seemingly impossible collection of remarkable objects. You can even climb inside the model of the world’s largest snake or see how you measure up to the world’s tallest person.
More Info: www.scienceworld.ca

Follow Their Footsteps: Animal Signs
Don’t forget to go outside and experience nature this Spring Break! Visit Kanaka Education and Environmental Society and tour indoor and outdoor learning spaces to see animals in their habitats. You’ll even see a salmon hatchery. These drop-in times are free and run on March 18 from 1-4pm.
More Info: www.metrovancouver.org/events/calendar/maple-ridge/958/follow-their-footsteps-animal-signs 

Sea to Sky Gondola: Kids Ride Free
What a fun and great deal for the whole family! You can take up to to three children, 12 and under accompanied by at least one adult, to ride The Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish. Once at the top, there are perfect nature trails, and weather dependent, possibly snowshoeing and snow tubing. Families can also discover various scenic viewpoints, and if you’re brave enough, a 100-metre-long Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge.
More Info: www.seatoskygondola.com

Part 3: 2018 Easter Events and Activities Burnaby to New Westminster

Easter can be a hoppin' good time for the family with all these egg-cellent activities around the Lower Mainland, listed by municipality. Your local community centre may also offer Easter-themed fun - check with yours. Happy Easter everyone.

BURNABY

Easter Egg Hunt
March 17, 10:00am - 1:00pm

The fundraising event includes a range of fun activities for kids up to age 10 – including egg decorating, face painting, crafts, games, refreshments and an appearance by the Easter Bunny, plus, of course, the Easter egg hunt.

Location: Hillview Preschool - #8 4340 Carson Street, Burnaby

Info: www.hillviewpreschool.ca

PORT MOODY

Easter Extravaganza

April 1, 10:00am – 2:00pm

Join in on the Easter egg hunt (kids look for marbles and exchange them for chocolate eggs). There will also be magic, music, face painting, photos with the Easter Bunny, a Easter basket craft and a duck pond prize game. Rain or shine. Cost: $5 per person, cash only.

Location: Port Moody Station Museum, 2734 Murray Street, Port Moody BC

Info: 604-939-1648 or www.portmoodymuseum.org/calendar/upcoming

MAPLE RIDGE



A Hop-ening Time

April 1, 1:00pm

Join us at The ACT Arts Centre, for a new exciting indoor Special Easter Activity! 7 Activity Stations (Approx. 70 Min to complete all Stations). Includes: Photo Stage & Easter Goodies, Paper Easter Basket Making, Face Painted Whiskers, Bunny Ear Headbands, Activity Showcase, Creative Poems, Dancing. $5 per child, parent participation. 

Location: The Act - 11944 Haney Place

Info: www.hop-ening-time 

Easter Egg Hunt 
April 1, 11:00am 
This year the hunt will start at 11:00 sharp, rain or shine! Bring a basket
Location: Whonnock Lake Park - 11350 Graham Street, Maple Ridge
Info: www.whonnockian.blogspot.ca

MISSION 

Easter Egg Hunt 
April 1st, 11:30am - 2:00pm
Wonderful Easter Egg Hunt at Fraser River Heritage Park. Celebrate spring with a fun-filled Easter egg hunt and a visit with the Easter Bunny. Costume prizes at noon and egg hunt at 1pm.
Location: Fraser River Heritage Park - 7494 Mary Street, Mission
Info: www.mission.ca/event/elks-annual-easter-egg-hunt




NEW WESTMINSTER

Easter in Queen's Park

April 1, 11:00am – 2:00pm

This family event is filled with activities for children between three and 10 years of age. Event highlights include: entertainment, crafts & face painting, photos with the Easter bunnies, the petting farm and loads of fun activities for youngsters to enjoy. Concession services will be available. Admission is free.

Location: Queen's Park - 600 Eighth Street, New Westminster 

Info: 604-777-5121 or www.newwestcity.ca/calendar-of-events/events/4296.php

Part 2: 2018 Easter Events and Activities Surrey to Abbotsford

Easter can be a hoppin' good time for the family with all these egg-cellent activities around the Lower Mainland, listed by municipality. Your local community centre may also offer Easter-themed fun - check with yours. Happy Easter everyone.

SURREY

Easter Skate

March 24, 1:00pm – 4:00pm

Celebrate Easter than going for a skate with the Easter Bunny and your family? Join us for a fun-filled skate with games and activities on and off the ice. Regular admission applies. Helmets and rentals are available for a small fee.

Location: South Surrey Arena - 2199 - 148 Street Surrey, BC
Info: 604-502-6200 or www.surrey.ca/easterskate



Old Fashion Easter Celebration

March 31, 11:00am – 3:00pm

After an egg hunt at home, bring your kids for a hoppin' good time at the Stewart Farm to make bunny ears. Spy treats will be hidden in the house and everyone can meet the Easter bunny! This event is free. 

Location: Historic Stewart Farm  13723 Crescent Road, Surrey

Info: www.surrey.ca/culture-recreation/26088.aspx

Easter Bash Swims
The Easter Bunny is making a stop at the pools! Join us for an Easter egg hunt, crafts and games over Easter weekend. Regular admission applies.
March 31, 2018 at 1:30pm to 3:30pm 
Locations: Guildford Recreation Centre, North Surrey Recreation Centre and South Surrey Indoor Pool
April 1, 2018 at 1:30pm to 4:30pm 
Location: Surrey Sport & Leisure Complex
April 2, 2018 at 1:30pm to 4:00pm 
Location: Newton Recreation Centre 
Info:www.surrey.ca/culture-recreation/26088.aspx

DELTA

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny

March 17, 9:00am – 11:00am

Join us for an egg-citing morning filled with Easter themed activities including a pancake breakfast, crafts and an Easter Egg Hunt. Bring your camera and have your picture taken with the Easter Bunny. Cost: $7 per child.
Location: South Delta Recreation Centre, 1720 56th Street, Delta BC


Info: 604-952-3000 www.delta.ca/your-government/news-events/event-calendar/

March 24, 9:00am – 11:00am

Join us for an egg-citing morning filled with Easter themed activities including a pancake breakfast, crafts and an Easter Egg Hunt. Bring your camera and have your picture taken with the Easter Bunny. Cost: $7 per child.
Location: North Delta Recreation Centre, 11415 84 Avenue, Delta, BC 


Info: 604-952-3045 www.delta.ca/your-government/news-events/event-calendar/

FORT LANGLEY

Fort Langley Easter Scavenger Hunt

April 1, 10:00am – 5:00pm, Scavenger hunt (10am – 5pm), Easter egg hunt (11:00am, 1:00pm, 3:00pm)

Calling all little bunnies! The all ages scavenger hunt includes fun activities that will take you exploring around the fort and earning chocolate as you go. The egg scramble will last until all the eggs have been found. Regular admission applies; free for annual pass holders.

Location: Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada, 23433 Mavis Ave, Fort Langley BC


Info: 604-513-4777 or www.facebook.com/FortLangleyNHS/

LANGLEY

Easter Bunny Photos

March 16-April 1, Various Times 

Hop on down to Willowbrook to have your child’s photo taken with our Easter Bunny. Every child that visits the Easter Bunny will receive a free eco-friendly gift (while quantities last). Photos taken at Centre Court near Purdy's Chocolate. 

Location: Willowbrook Mall, Centre,19705 Fraser Highway, Langley BC

Info: 604-530-4492 or www.shopwillowbrook.com/photos-easter-bunny

Easter Festival & Egg Hunt

April 1, 11:00am – 4:00pm

Fun for the whole family- participate in an egg hunt in the vineyard and splurge on Easter goodies in support of the Small Animal Rescue Society (formerly BC Rabbit Rescue). Take in live music and enjoy a glass or two of wine with your barbecue lunch at our outdoor wine bar while the kids frolic for the afternoon. Cost: $15 per child. Location: Township 7, 21152 16th Avenue, Langley BC

Info: www.township7.com/events/

ABBOTSFORD

Easter Egg Hunt 


March 30- April 2, 10:00am – 3:00pm

Join us for our 2nd Annual Easter Egg-Stravaganza at Maan Farms. Join for Easter Egg Hunt, prizes, Easter Bunny Meet and Greet, petting zoo and play area. Admission $8.00, Bring own Easter basket. 

Location: 790 McKenzie Road, Abbotsford, BC

Info: www.maanfarms.com

Part 1: 2018 Easter Events and Activities Vancouver to West Vancouver

Easter can be a hoppin' good time for the family with all these egg-cellent activities around the Lower Mainland, listed by municipality. Your local community centre may also offer Easter-themed fun - check with yours. Happy Easter everyone.

VANCOUVER

Easter Eggstravaganza

March 31, 11:00am – 1:00pm

For children ages 1 to 8 years. Under 1 year free. Please come join us for our Fun Fabulous and Outrageous Easter Celebration! Easter Eggstravaganza...featuring The Purple Pirate! Cost: $6.00 per child.

Location: Kitsilano Community Centre-  2690 Larch St. Vancouver BC

Info: www.kitscc.com/easter-eggstravaganza-1-8-yrs

Eggs-Tacular Easter Egg Hunt 

March 31, 9:30am – 10:45am (Ages 1-3), 11:15am – 12:30pm (Ages 1-6), 1:00pm – 2:15pm (Ages 4-9)

Hippity Hoppity down to the Roundhouse for an Easter Egg Hunt. The event will include an egg hunt with arts and crafts activities, a candy bag to take home and a visit from the Easter Bunny. No need to bring a basket, this will be part of our arts and crafts activities. Parent’s supervision is required for the 1-3yrs session. Pre-registration required, drop-ins permitted ONLY if space is available.

Cost: $6 per child.

Location: Roundhouse Community Centr = 181 Roundhouse Mews, Vancouver BC

Info: 604-713-1800 or www.roundhouse.ca/events/eggs-tacular-easter-egg-hunt/

Stanley Park Easter Train & Easter Fair

March 22-25 & March 29 - April 2, 10:00am – 5:00pm

Hop on by for a fun-filled day including a ride on the miniature train, egg hunts, crafts and a visit from the Easter Bunny. The train runs rain or shine and is fully covered, protecting everyone onboard from spring showers. Be sure to bring your own Easter basket for the egg hunt!  After the train ride, purchase carnival strip tickets so your kids can enjoy fun activities.
Cost: $6 per child/adult. Buy tickets on TicketLeader

Location: Stanley Park, Vancouver 

Info: www.vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/easter-train.aspx

Hippity Hop Easter Event

April 1, 2:00pm – 4:00pm

Hippity Hop, Hippity Hop, bouncy your way through the egg hunt maze, games and all the other fun and exciting stations.
Cost: $3.00. Pre-registration is required

Location: Creekside Community Centre, 1 Athletes Way, Vancouver 

Register/Info: www.vancouver.ca/easterevents

Easter Eggstravaganza

March 24, 10:30am – 12:00pm

EGGstra fun is in store at our annual Easter event which includes a continental style brunch, games, crafts, family entertainment and an Easter Egg Hunt. Space is limited and registration must be done in advance. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This event is suited for children 2-8 years. Cost: $5 per child + adult.

Location: False Creek Community Centre, 1318 Cartwright Street, Vancouver 

Info: www.falsecreekcc.ca

Easter Eggstravanza

March 30, Various Times

HOP on down to our annual Easter Event at Sunset. Activities will include a bouncy castle, arts and crafts, face painting, cookie decorating and an Easter egg hunt. Register now as this event is surely going to sell out.
Cost: $5 per child, 1 and under free 

Location: Sunset Community Centre - 6810 Main Street, Vancouver  
Call to Register: 604-718-6505

Info: www.mysunset.net/

Easter Egg Hunt and Carnival

March 30, 9:30am – 10:30 am (Age 2-4), 10:45 am – 11:45 am (Age 5-7), 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm (Age 8-12)

This popular annual event brings families and the Easter Bunny together to have a FUN-tastic time! The event will feature a bouncy castle, Easter themed arts & crafts, face-painting, and so much more! The Easter Egg Hunt portion of the event will take place both indoors and outdoors (weather-permitting). All participants are guaranteed to take home a prize! Adult participation is required for 2-4 yrs session. Drop-ins not permitted. $4.50 per child 

Location: Kilarney Community Centre, 6260 Kilarney Street, Vancouver 

Info/Registration: www.www.vancouver.ca/easterevents

Easter Fun

March 31, 1:00pm – 3:00pm

Enter a colouring contest and make neat crafts to take home. Get your photo taken with the Easter Bunny on . Photos are $6 each by Mandarin 1HR Photo. Download colour sheet 

Location: Kingsgate Mall, Kingsway & Broadway, Vancouver 

Info: www.kingsgatemall.com/events.html

NORTH VANCOUVER

Easter Egg Hunt

March 31, 10:00am – 12:30pm

Kids ages two to nine are invited to hop on over to Heywood Park (Marine Drive and Hamilton Avenue) for some Easter fun!  Don't forget your Easter basket for the chocolate egg hunt.  It will start at 10:30am SHARP (while supplies last)! There will also be face painting, balloon animals, a bouncy castle and entertainment to enjoy!  Event will take place rain or shine.
Location: Heywood Park - 1633 MacKay Ave, North Vancouver

Info: www.nvrc.ca/notices-events-blog/events-calendar/easter-egg-hunt

Lonsdale Market Celebrates Easter

April 1, 10:00am – 2:00pm

Easter activities include face painting and balloon art for a nominal fee, an Easter-themed craft, and a special visit from the Easter Bunny. The Bunny will be at the Market, and available for pictures, from 11am-12pm.

Location:  123 Carrie Cates Court,
 North Vancouver 

Info: 604-985-6261 or www.lonsdalequay.com/events.php

Easter in the Village

March 31, 1:00pm – 3:00pm

Lynn Valley Village will be hosting an Easter Event that will feature children’s activities, and an Easter Treasure Hunt. Come and enjoy this free family fun day together.
Location: 1233 - 1277 Lynn Valley Rd, North Vancouver 

Info/Reservations: events@nvrc.ca or www.lynnvalleyvillage.com/events/8-lynnvalleyvillage/787-easter-event.html

Easter Brunch

April 1, Seating at 9:30am or 2:00pm

This year's Easter festivities will feature delicious brunch classics for all ages and an exciting Easter Egg hunt led by the Easter Bunny himself. Cost: Adults $55, Child (5 - 12 years) $20, Tots (2-4 years) $12. Reservations limited.

Location: Grouse Mountain, North Vancouver 

Info/Reservations: 604-998-5045 or www.grousemountain.com/events/easter-brunch-2018

WEST VANCOUVER

Easter Dino Egg Hunt

April 1, 11:00am – 1:00pm

Britanniasaurus Rex is back again! Join us this Easter for our annual Dino Egg Hunt. B. Rex will be wandering around the Museum site from 11:00am to 11:30am and then 1:00pm to 1:30pm, hiding gem-filled dinosaur eggs. Find the eggs and then bring them to the mineral table to identify your treasures. We'll also have a special table where you can learn how, where and under what conditions minerals form! 

Location: Britannia Mine Museum, PO Box 188, Britannia Beach, BC V0N 1J0

Info: www.britanniaminemuseum.ca/events-app/easter-dino-egg-hunt

RICHMOND

Easter at the Cannery

March 30- April 1, 10:00am – 5:00pm

Have fun hunting for eggs while learning about fishing on the West Coast. Enjoy Easter themed arts, crafts and activities. Enter the annual prize draw for a chance to win a chocolate Easter bunny.
Cost: $4.90 for Kids ages 2+, $3.90 for Adults 17+

Location: Gulf of Georgia Cannery, 12138 Fourth Ave, Richmond BC

Info: www.gulfofgeorgiacannery.org/events/easter-at-the-cannery-3

Easter Eggstravaganza

March 31, 10:00am – 12:00pm  
Come celebrate Easter with arts and crafts, games and Easter egg hunt led by the Easter Bunny. Parent participation is required. Register at www.richmond.ca/register or 604-238-8060. For children 1 to 10 years old. $10 per child

Location: Stevesten Community Centre - 4111 Moncton Street

Info: www.richmond.ca/parksrec/centres/southarmcentre/programsandevents.htm

Family Day - Families Coming Together

Anyone who has been a parent knows that sometimes you really need to talk about the challenges we face. Many of us reach out to family and friends when we need support, new parenting strategies, or just to vent our frustrations. However, some of us can’t reach out to family and friends because of distance, or estrangement. Others may not be comfortable sharing our parenting challenges with friends and family.

These are a few of the reasons Parent Support Services Society of BC (PSS) offers free Parenting Support Circles. As one parent said, “It's a loving circle of many interesting parents. Parents there can exchange their ideas and experiences freely."

Bella Cenezero, Director of Circles and Community, says “We believe that every parent is the expert of their own family.” She adds, “Sometimes all a parent, or other caregiver, needs is a chance to share with who have experienced similar frustrations, challenges, and joys.” Cenezero adds, “We have been told that our Circles are a lifeline for many.” Participants learn new strategies for parenting, receive resources and make connections that often break isolation.

In the Lower Mainland, PSS currently offers 19 Circles in various locations. These include support groups for grandparents who are raising and are the primary caregivers for their grandchildren, Circles run in English, Cantonese, Mandarin, Filipino, Spanish, and Korean.

One parent who was new to Canada said, "This group helps me with my problems. Moreover, I benefit by learning how other parents solved their problems in different situations. New immigrants need assistance in this area."

Circles are currently operating in Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Surrey, Richmond, Abbotsford and Langley and run daytime, evening, and weekends depending on location.

Cenezero emphasizes that as well as Parenting Support Circles, PSS offers workshops in the Lower Mainland on a variety of topics on a monthly basis.

Parenting Support Circles offered in in communities across BC include: Indigenous Parent & Kinship Care Circles; groups for parents who are raising children on the autism spectrum; Circles for parents in prison; groups for parents who are raising children who are trans or gender creative; Circles for grandparents and other relatives raising their kin; and groups that operate in various languages. PSS has Circles for people like you!

For more information and to find out about Circles in you area contact: 
Bella Cenezero 604-669-1616 Ext 105
bella_cenezero@parentsupportbc.ca