This winter, create your own family holiday tradition, says columnist Kita Szpak I write this with joy and amusement. I only learned this year that my boys – I should call them men now but being a mom, they’ll always […]
Kita Szpak
The not-so-magic school bus
Walking to school has its advantages – some of which are unexpected, Kita Szpak writes Many of us have memories of taking the bus to school (depending on where you lived and what was available in your area). In […]
A second language
Can your child to succeed with French when you don’t speak the language? It’s possible, experts say Canadian parents know the value of having their kids master French – the professional job scene demands it, particularly in the National Capital […]
You do you, boo
Dads come in all shapes, sizes, colours, and even gender – so be yourself. Be yourself – your kids will love you for it. There’s enormous pressure on dads today to step up and excel as parents – in […]
In praise of slow
Columnist Kita Szpak discusses the benefits to your family – and your health – of slowing down Parents everywhere are multitasking to sustain the balance in their lives for the benefit of their children’s livelihood and their own. This issue […]
The power of parenting
Ever have a fleeting thought that you’d like to rewind to the days – if you can remember them – when kids weren’t a part of your existence? All parents and caregivers experience times when they’re at their sanity threshold […]
‘There is joy here’
There are many charitable organizations that do good work in our community. Ones you’ve heard of (United Way, Ottawa Mission, CHEO and Sens Foundation, Orkidstra, Boys and Girls Club and Big Brothers, Big Sisters, to name a few) and ones […]
‘I couldn’t imagine my existence without it’
How important are the arts in a child’s upbringing? In speaking to a number of educators and arts professionals involved with kids, not surprisingly, the importance of having the arts as a part of a child’s upbringing was mentioned again […]
Look back to move forward
Small changes in your parenting approach can yield great results, says columnist Kita Szpak Flipping the calendar to a New Year can bring mixed emotions – everything from regret and wistfulness to excitement and anticipation. Where are you on […]
Back to school – without the headache
Here’s how to conquer your morning routine (with your sanity intact) A sigh of relief passes your lips as September heralds the return of your children to school. No matter how wonderful the summer weather, the vacation, the BBQs, the […]