Also called school aversion and school phobia, related episodes can negatively affect families’ lives. Our Happiness Formula columnist helps us sort through the whys – and possible fixes The back-to-school season is an exciting time for many families, but […]
The Happiness Formula
Joy required
In building a lifelong relationship with books and reading, the desire has to come from within, writes our Happiness Formula columnist “I gotta read this book for school.” “I don’t want to. It’s boring.” “Daddy doesn’t read books so […]
The beach
Kita Szpak shares one of her favourite ways to while away an Ottawa summer’s day An early riser, I make my way to Britannia Park. Little traffic and extensive free parking this time of day are a bonus. Depending on […]
Three steps to feeling good
Caring for yourself is not a once-in-a-while endeavour We often hear the phrase: “You can’t take care of anyone else unless you first take care of yourself.” This speaks volumes as far as parents and caregivers are concerned. Today, the […]
Holiday homecoming
Having a loved one walk through the door is the most joyful part of the season The holiday season and homecomings go hand-in-hand. Whether you’re coming from school, another city or another country, who of us hasn’t experienced travelling […]
Memories of teachers past
Teachers, do you recall a student named Kita Szpak? Because she remembers you Who doesn’t remember a favourite teacher; a teacher who picked on you; one who made you laugh; or one who made you nod off in class? With […]
March Break, close to home
That week off can’t come soon enough. Make it memorable, even if there’s no big trip planned A trip south (which may or may not involve a visit to Walt Disney World) has long been a dream destination for many […]
Looking ahead, moving forward
Columnist Kita Szpak offers her favourite advice as we enter 2023 Susan Cain is a former lawyer-turned-writer whose book “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking” was one I read with great appreciation a […]
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 […]
Just like riding a bike
Practice —and the guidance of loved ones — makes perfect when it comes to giving Who of us hasn’t at one time or another held on holding on for dear life the back seat of a child’s two-wheeler as he […]