Getting Down to Serious (and then Fun) Business

As I sit down to write my Christmas message to you all…

Happy April Fool’s Day! We thought we’d start off this month with a little fun! This April 1st event has been celebrated for centuries but its exact history is shrouded in mystery. All we know is that it’s a favourite of kids – the one day they can pull one over on their often unsuspecting parents (I always forget it has come around again!) without getting in much trouble.

OK, the pranking is done and it’s time to get down to some serious (and then fun) business.

We talk to Gerry Bryan RN, PHN from the Middlesex-London Health Unit this month, who gives important information about keeping your kids safe around cannabis. Did you know? Any edible cannabis products that have colourful, fancy packaging with catchy names are illegal under the Federal Cannabis Act and Regulations and should not be consumed. Find out more on page 7.

Are you and your toddler struggling with tantrums? Are you and your school-ager experiencing emotional storms? Well, our experts are here to help! Nurse Practitioner, Becky Morrison, gives seven tips to quickly address a trantrum AND keep healthy boundaries (p. 15). And Professional Speaker, Sara Westbrook, teaches us to hit “refresh” with our kids during times of heightened emotions (p. 17).

Now, let’s move onto some fun stuff! Do you remember the way we (or our parents) used to play when we were kids? We were free to explore, try things out and make up fun. Well, the Canadian Pediatric Society is suggesting a return to risky play for kids, and Dr. Bhooma Bhayana walks us through all of the benefits (and safety recommendations, of course) on page 6. 

Are you a big kid who still lives to play? If you’re an adult who loves “toys” like classic cars, ATVs and boats, you won’t want to miss Kenny Insurance’s article outlining insurance options for your oh-so-fun items. See page 9.

We’re wishing you an April full of fun and surprises, and a read through our issue full of information and tips. Remember to be kind to Mother Earth this month and every day of the year – Earth Day falls on April 22nd. “If every day were Earth Day, we wouldn’t be in the mess we’re in.” – Neil DeGrasse Tyson

 

Sabina Manji, a lifelong Londoner, is an irrepressible entrepreneur, mother of a wonderful son, and also a committed volunteer.