The return of spring means more animal sightings. Three local wildlife rehab organizations educate us on what we should — and shouldn’t — do when nature calls When the city thaws and the ground cover makes its long-awaited reappearance in […]
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Decoding the world of words
Phonics provides structured literacy to young readers Phonics — understanding that letters and groups of letters make the sounds in language — is still the best approach to teaching children how to read, says Diane Duff, director of The Reading […]
An effective alternative
For many students, virtual learning works School was always difficult for Cameron Ward. With autism and ADHD, Cameron struggled in a regular class, says his mother, Sarah-Jane Ward. “Then along came the pandemic and everything changed.” Ward says there […]
Learning to give
Ontario high school students have long been required to complete volunteer hours as a condition of graduation. Here’s why it’s beneficial Volunteering fulfills two criteria for students. Students discover their passions, develop their talents and get involved in […]
Frozen hearts
Despite encouraging words, early mornings and shouldering fundraising efforts, hockey moms are often the forgotten heart of the game Looking back at her calendar, Michelle Hollett wonders how she ever did it. “I had two kids who were in […]
Back to school, a visit to the past
When returning to class this September, it’s wise to take stock of what we’ve learned during the pandemic. Kita Szpak reflects Hearing the words “back to school” conjures up lots of things: big-time memories, familiarity of classmates, a […]
A place to grow old in
An Ottawa-based organization is working to make communities age friendly and intergenerational. SWOOS shares their ideas with Sheryl Bennett-Wilson In response to Canada’s aging demographics, a local group is planning for the future. Senior Watch Old Ottawa South is […]
A reason to write
Her son Nolan’s life-threatening allergies inspired Michelle Nel to pen a series of books for families. Tracey Tong talks to the Ottawa author A personal support worker, Michelle Nel had yearned to be an author since childhood. For years, it […]
Canada’s missing history
Experts say we have far to go when it comes to teaching reconciliation in schools When it comes to teaching reconciliation, most schools are off to a good start, but there must be more purpose and intention, says the director […]
On the wings of love
My children’s butterfly-raising project gave us gifts we didn’t anticipate It’s a long-held belief of educators that learning doesn’t only take place in the classroom. I agree: teaching important life lessons — respect for the planet and its creatures — […]