CityParent – Greater Toronto Edition – February 2026
Build your Family Day tradition with us! Free activities for all ages and abilities.
Monday, February 16, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Our Family Day events feature tons of FREE recreation and culture programs, activities, live entertainment, and more. Visit oakville.ca for the full event schedule and participating locations!
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TERMS AND INDEMNIFICATION
FEATURE
Nurturing curiosity How Do You Earn? A book review
Mompreneur: Cherry Tags – Personalized, practical, and made with heart
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up front
VALENTINE’S DAY MAGIC
Valentine’s Day did not begin with cards or candy hearts. Its roots reach back to ancient Rome, where mid-February marked festivals tied to love, renewal, and hope. Centuries later, stories of Saint Valentine added a layer of devotion. One legend says he secretly married couples when marriage was banned for soldiers. Another says he wrote a note signed “from your Valentine” before his death. By the Middle Ages, poets in England and France began linking the day with romance. Over time, handwritten notes turned into printed cards, and eventually the holiday grew into the celebration we know now. Through all the changes, one thing stayed steady: the idea that love should be expressed clearly, kindly, and without hesitation.
Every February, we are pushed toward the same routine. Buy flowers. Pick chocolates. Add a card so it feels complete. But the heart of Valentine’s Day has never depended on price tags. It is built on connection, and connection thrives on sincerity, not spending.
The gestures that matter most are often simple. A handwritten note carries more meaning than a bouquet marked up for the season. A short visit with someone who feels isolated can lift their whole week. Cooking together slows the pace and opens space for real conversation.
Even a few minutes of focused listening can say, “I care” better than anything wrapped in cellophane.
There are plenty of easy, low-cost ways to celebrate. Leave a kind message for a coworker. Share a playlist with a friend who needs comfort. Help a neighbour with a small task. Call the family member you keep meaning to reach. Let people know they matter without waiting for a perfect moment. These gestures last longer than roses or candy ever will.
Pets are part of this day, too. They do not know it is a holiday, but they feel our attention. A longer walk, extra playtime, or a quiet stretch on the couch means far more to them than any new toy. They remind us love is built on presence.
Kids also learn something valuable from this holiday. When they hand out Valentines to everyone in class, they practice inclusion instead of cliques. They make room for the shy kids, the new kids, the kids still finding their footing. It teaches them that feelings matter and that kindness should be shared widely, not selectively.
So, this year, let the pressure drop. Skip the script. Choose small, honest gestures that make people feel seen. That kind of love lasts long after February 14.
Mary Racioppo Editor-In-Chief, City Parent
oral health A CHILDHOOD DENTAL TIMELINE
Dental visits typically are bi-annual events to maintain oral health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a dental visit for everyone at least once a year, but some people may need to go to the dentist more frequently.
Dentists do more than offer a polishing and pat on the back each visit. Brushing and flossing can remove a lot of bacterial film and plaque on teeth, but not all of it. Dental visits help remove it more thoroughly. Dental visits also give dentists a chance to spot signs of dental and oral health problems, offers Penn Dental Medicine. Dentists look for sign’s indicative of oral cancer and other cancers. Dentists also offer guidance about generalized oral care.
The importance of visiting the dentist cannot be overstated. And dental checkups are something that both children and adults should participate in regularly. Parents may wonder when they should begin to focus on oral hygiene for their children. This timeline can help guide the process.
Before teeth erupt
Children are not born with teeth, but keeping their mouths clean is still important. From birth to the arrival of the first tooth, experts recommend gently wiping your baby’s gums, tongue and inner cheeks with a damp washcloth or gauze after feeding to remove bacteria and prevent plaque formation. This helps a baby grow accustomed to the sensation of oral care.
The first tooth arrives
The Better Health Channel says the first tooth usually appears around six months of age. When this occurs, you should brush the tooth with a soft children’s toothbrush and water twice a day. Speak with a pediatrician before using fluoride toothpaste at this time, as there are conflicting recommendations. As more teeth erupt, use a pea-sized
amount of fluoride toothpaste and help toddlers and preschoolers learn to brush their own teeth.
The American Dental Association says parents should supervise the brushing process until children are around age seven or eight, when they’ll have the dexterity and skill to handle the task alone.
Visiting the dentist
Stanford Children’s Health advises parents to bring their child to the dentist for a first dental visit by 12 months of age, or within six months of the first tooth erupting. During this visit, the dentist will advise about baby bottle tooth decay, infant feeding practices, teething, pacifier use, and finger-sucking habits.
Children typically are advised to see a dentist every six months, just like adults.
It is essential that parents emphasize strong oral health care skills, so kids grow accustomed to visiting the dentist at an early age. This can set children up for a lifetime of oral health.
nurturing curiosity
HOW DO YOU EARN? A BOOK REVIEW
In Bunnyland, carrots are like money, and Toonie is eager to earn some – but how can he do it? He has a passion for painting, and everyone appreciates a lovely piece of art. So, he sets up his easel, gathers his materials, and starts creating. Hippity hop, paint and keep going! Before long, he has enough artwork to fill an entire gallery, and now he just needs some customers. Luckily, he has a large family and many friends! The little bunnies will enjoy watching this ambitious little guy earn his carrots while pursuing his passion!
JUST THE FACTS
How Do You Earn?
By Cinders McLeod Author & Illustrator
Published by Nancy Paulsen
Books
Suitable for ages 3-5
32 pages
Released January 2026
Cinders McLeod (CindersMcLeod.com; Moneybunnies.com) is the creator of the Moneybunny series, including the Mathical Book Prize–honoured How Do You Spend? and titles like Give It! Save It! Spend It! and Earn It! Her illustrations have appeared in The Guardian, The Observer, The Independent, The Globe and Mail, Macleans, and on CBC television, earning recognition from the Society for News Design, the National Magazine Awards, and the National Newspaper Awards.
Cinders is also the founder of Moneybunnies Inc., a musician, Gaelic language student, and proud mother of two, living in Toronto, Canada
Other Moneybunny books available by Cinders McLeod:
• Earn It!
• Save It!
• Give It!
• Spend It!
Helping kids discover the joy of money – one carrot at a time!
PETIT LEM’S
VALENTINES COLLECTION
GIVE THE GIFT OF LOVE
Celebrating the sweetest kind of love just got even cuter with Petit Lem’s newest collection of matching PJ sets for moms and their minis. From bedtime stories to slow Sunday mornings, these pieces are made to elevate every cosy moment. Crafted from ultra-soft, 100 per cent organically grown cotton and available for babies, toddlers, big kids, and moms, they’re comfort everyone can feel good about. With two charming PJ styles and a cosy script “love” sweater in the mix, Petit Lem invites families to embrace togetherness – one heart at a time.
Hearts and Stripes on Poplin: 1 pc – $50 | Toddler set from $55 | Kids’ set from $55 | Women’s – $88
All Over Heart Print –Sleeper – $32 | Toddler set from $34 | Kids’ set from $40 | Women’s – $78
Many people will admit that home ownership tops their lists of longterm goals. Finding a home that is affordable may require moving into what many real estate agents bill as a “starter home.” But the arrival of a child, and then more children, thereafter, could make a home that was perfectly functional for two or three feel too close for comfort.
Anyone who would like to raise a family in the future might want to consider certain factors when choosing a residence or designing living spaces. A home that can grow with life changes can truly be a forever home. The following strategies can expand space when a family grows.
Declutter
It is important to go through belongings regularly and remove anything that is no longer needed. This can be the first step to free up physical space in a room or the home in general. Donate any items that still have utility.
Reassess your existing storage
Look at different ways to maximize existing storage. Utilizing vertical space is one way to do so, so an investment in shelves, hooks and storage systems that maximize space in an upward direction can get items off the floor. Make use of storage under the stairs or in eaves. Loft beds with open space underneath are great for children’s rooms because they maximize floor area.
Think about toy storage
Children love to play with toys, and once kids are in a home, toys will accumulate quite quickly. Have a plan
for keeping toys neat and stowed away when not in use. Under-the-bed storage, toy armoires (that are secured to the wall) and furniture that can double as storage, such as storage ottomans, are ideal.
Revamp a closet
Although closet space may be at a premium, particularly in older homes, a closet can be turned into a nook to hold a desk for a homework station or remote office space. Compact and organized, it’s easy to hide away when not in use by closing the door.
Utilize room dividers
Open floorplans have been the norm for some time. But at some point, as a family grows, privacy and multi-functional spaces may be needed. It can be costly to put up permanent walls, but bookcases or pieces of tall furniture can be used as room dividers to cordon off areas as specific spaces, like a child’s play area.
Convert a basement or garage
Garages and basements have a reputation for being catch-alls for storage boxes and holiday decorations. However, such rooms have plenty of potential as functional living spaces. Invest in transforming a garage or basement into a room that can grow with the family. At first, it may be a play area for young kids. Afterwards, it can be a gaming or homework hangout. As children grow older, spaces can be converted to a family media room. Having this extra space can free up room in the rest of the house so people can enjoy alone time when they need it.
A yard or another outdoor space can add valuable square footage to a home. A covered patio or deck can make the outdoor areas more usable throughout the year, and zones can be created for family meals, play and relaxation.
A family home will need more space as the years go on, and homeowners should keep that in mind when making renovations or choosing a property.
Maximize outdoor space
TOP FLU SEASON SURVIVAL TIPS FOR PARENTS AND KIDS
During peak flu season, we all try to dodge illness. But what if the flu hits?
Whether you’re staying home from work because you’re sick, or caring for your child late at night, it can throw the entire household off routine.
That’s why City Parent spoke with family physician, Dr. Jeffrey Habert, to share practical tips for recovery – so you and your family can get back to your regular schedule in no time.
Upgrade your quality of rest
“We all know rest is essential for recovery, but quality rest is key. Scrolling through social media or watching TV can disrupt sleep by blocking melatonin with blue light, spiking dopamine for false excitement, and raising cortisol, making it harder to wind down when your body needs it most. To help your body fully recover, dim the lights early and give your brain time away from screens.”
Rehydration is key
“When we’re sick with the flu or stomach bug, dehydration is common because of fluid loss from symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea or just from a lack of food and water intake. Water is sometimes not enough, and sports drinks don’t contain the optimal balance of sodium and sugar. Parents sometimes turn to flat pop or juice, but these, like sports drinks, are high in sugar and can worsen symptoms.
To prevent dehydration, I recommend oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte. It’s not just for your kids; it’s effective for adults, too, with optimal balance of electrolytes and sugar. It has three times the sodium, an electrolyte, and 50% less sugar than sports drinks per litre, which is why I recommend keeping it stocked, because no one wants to do a pharmacy run when they’re sick.”
Foods for recovery
“If you have a stomach illness (gastro), stick with bland, easy-to-digest foods like bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. Avoid spicy, fatty or acidic foods. If solids are hard to tolerate, clear fluids and broths can help with hydration and energy.
If you have flu-like symptoms or a low appetite from illness, don’t force eating – focus on preventing dehydration. Eat small portions that are easy to tolerate, such as soups or smoothies. As your appetite returns, slowly resume your normal diet.”
When the flu or gastro strikes, these simple yet effective tips can help you and your family bounce back so you can focus on moments that matter most. Start with plenty of rest and make sure you’re stocked up on essentials like Pedialyte 1L bottles, Powder Sticks, and if nausea makes drinking difficult, Pedialyte
offers Freezer Pops, which are a great alternative.
You can find Pedialyte on Amazon, Walmart, at your local pharmacy, or grocery store.
Want to learn more? Ask your healthcare provider about Pedialyte or visit Pedialyte.ca.
february
COOL THINGS
AND THE COLOUR OF THE YEAR FOR 2026 GOES TO PANTONE’S CLOUD DANCER
Pantone’s 2026 Colour of the Year, Cloud Dancer, is a soft, airy white symbolizing calm, clarity, and fresh beginnings. Chosen for its quiet, uplifting presence, the shade offers a subtle backdrop that pairs effortlessly with any palette – perfect for inspiring simplicity and renewal in the year ahead.
Off White Set of 2 Ellyn
Decorative Pillow –Bouclair
Serene style, cosy comfort – meet the Ellyn pillows. Stylish comfort made for relaxing moments.
$49.99 | bouclair.com
Active Fleece Wind Headband – Smartwool
For those days when you want to keep it simple but still stay cosy. $35 | smartwool.com
Off White Ellyn Faux Fur Throw – Bouclair
Soft, sumptuous, and effortlessly inviting – your sanctuary starts here. $49.99 | bouclair.com
Shower Steamer Tablets (Pouch of 8) – Eucalyptus – Soja & Co.
Bring the spa home with shower steam tablets. Infused with eucalyptus, field mint, and menthol, each tablet releases invigorating aromas that turn your shower into a relaxing aromatherapy ritual. $37.00 | sojaco.ca
Women’s Oh Mega Fur Pom Beanie – The North Face
Melton Wool-Blend DoubleBreasted Peacoat – RW & CO
Indulge in timeless elegance, tailored to perfection. A lasting style made of pure wool. $269.99 | rw-co.com
Venere – Olang Canada
Italian-made comfort and confidence for every forecast. Built for winter, made for anywhere. $285.00 | olangcanada.com
The Women’s Oh Mega Fur Pom Beanie now features a 100% recycled body, an oversized fauxfur pom, and updated cabling. $52.99 | thenorthface.com
Women’s Hydrenalite™City Long Down Hooded Parka –The North Face
$469.99 | thenorthface.com
White Chocolate & Coconut Organic Fairtrade
White Tea – FOUR O’CLOCK
Indulge in bliss – chocolate, nuts, and cheer in every cup. It’s sweet, chocolatey, and utterly irresistible. $5.89 | fourclock.ca
mompreneur
CHERRY TAGS
PERSONALIZED, PRACTICAL, AND MADE WITH HEART
Canadian-made personalized labels designed to keep life simple, stylish, and organized.
When it comes to keeping family life on track, it’s often the smallest details that make the biggest impact. Enter Cherry Tags, a Toronto-based brand that transforms everyday essentials into personalized, practical, and stylish solutions.
Cherry Tags was founded by Burcu, a Toronto-based designer and mom who turned her family’s everyday chaos into creative inspiration. What started as a personal project – labelling her kids’ school and daycare items – quickly evolved into a thriving small business, favoured by families nationwide.
With a background in design and a passion for high-quality craftsmanship, Burcu set out to create products that blend function, durability, and beauty. Today, she leads Cherry Tags with the same personal touch and family-first values that inspired it from day one.
“Every label tells a story – it’s about family, creativity, and keeping life beautifully organized.”
“EVERY LABEL TELLS A STORY –IT’S ABOUT FAMILY, CREATIVITY, AND KEEPING LIFE BEAUTIFULLY ORGANIZED.”
Designed and produced in Canada, Cherry Tags offers custom name tags, labels, and accessories that help families stay organized while expressing a little personality along the way. Think durable, dishwasher-safe, laundryproof labels that keep everything from backpacks to water bottles coming home at the end of the day.
“Because staying organized should never mean sacrificing style.”
Each Cherry Tags product is crafted with care – hand-finished in small batches using premium, long-lasting materials. The labels are waterproof, fade-resistant, and designed to endure daily life’s spills, spins, and schoolyard adventures.
Parents love the practicality; kids love the fun. With endless options for colours, fonts, and icons, every Cherry Tag feels personal – whether it’s for school gear, camp essentials, sports uniforms, or daycare supplies.
Popular picks:
• Stick-on labels for lunch boxes and bottles
• Iron-on clothing labels that survive every wash
• Custom bag tags for school, sports, or travel
• Mini dots for small items like pencils or chargers
Simple. Stylish. Canadian.
In a world of mass production, Cherry Tags brings things back to
“BECAUSE STAYING ORGANIZED SHOULD NEVER MEAN SACRIFICING STYLE.”
what matters – family, creativity, and care. Every tag is a small piece of thoughtful design that helps families stay organized and connected, one name at a time.
cherrytags.com
2026 WINTER FAMILY CAMP!
MARCH 16-20, 2026
Looking for a unique winter escape for your family? Camp Kandalore has you covered. Join us this March Break for a cozy, adventure-packed week filled with snowy forests, crackling campfires, and plenty of outdoor fun. It’s the perfect chance to step out of the city, reconnect with nature, and enjoy winter at its best.
SKIING @ SIR SAMS | SAUNA | SNOWSHOEING | RAPPELLING | XCOUNTRY SKIING | NIGHT HIKES TO GHOST ISLAND | BROOMBALL | QUINZHEE BUILDING
SKIING @ SIR SAMS | SAUNA | SNOWSHOEING | RAPPELLING | XCOUNTRY SKIING | NIGHT HIKES TO GHOST ISLAND | BROOMBALL | QUINZHEE BUILDING
FORMORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.KANDALORE.COM/OUTSIDE-PROGRAMS OR REACH OUT TO DAN@KANDALORE.COM
In. Impact Driver
• CMCS300 V20 Reciprocating Saw
• CMCE500 V20 Oscillating Tool
• CMCS505 V20 5-3/8 In. Circular Saw
• CMCW220 V20 5 In. Random Orbit Sander
• CMCS600 V20 Jig
WHAT’S UNDER THE COVERS THIS MONTH
So Much Snow
By Robert Munsch & Illustrated by Michael Martchenko
There’s a big blizzard blowing in and not even a snowstorm will stop Jasmine from getting to school for pizza day! But when she gets buried in a snowdrift, the custodian rescues her – only to find out schools cancelled. It’s a snow day! Great news… except, how will Jasmine get her pizza now?
Age: 3-6. Published by: Scholastic Canada. Pages: 32. Price: $8.99
The Littlest Valentine
By Brandi Dougherty & Illustrated by Michelle Todd
Emma wants to help her family prepare for Valentine’s Day, but being the smallest makes it tough to keep up. Despite her best efforts, things don’t go as planned – until Emma discovers that even the littlest helper can make a big difference in a heartfelt, family-filled holiday.
Age: 3-5. Published by: Cartwheel Books. Pages: 24. Price: $5.50
By Robert Munsch & Illustrated by Michael Martchenko
Thomas absolutely refuses to wear his ugly new snowsuit – no matter what his mom, teacher, or even the principal say! With hilarious battles and stubborn “NNNNNOs,” this classic Robert Munsch story delivers big laughs and a playful look at standing your ground – even when it comes to winter clothes.
Age: 4-8. Published by: Annick Press. Pages: 24. Price: $7.95
All Different and Beautiful: A Children’s Book About Diversity, Kindness, and Friendships
By Belle Belrose
Literary Titan Book Award Winner - Every parent aspires to nurture a child who flourishes and makes others feel included. But how can we guide children to recognize that variations in race, culture, or abilities are worth celebrating? This wonderfully crafted and illustrated book offers the solution.
Age: 6-12. Published by: 8BC Publishing. Pages: 35. Price: $16.99
We Share Everything!
By Robert Munsch & Illustrated by Michael Martchenko
Amanda and Jeremiah clash on the first day of kindergarten – they both want the same books, paints, and more. But when their teacher insists, “In kindergarten, we share everything,” they take it literally – right down to swapping clothes!
Age: 3-8. Published by: Scholastic Canada. Pages: 32. Price: $8.99
Barnabus Project
By The Fan Brothers. Terry Fan, Eric Fan, and Devin Fan
Barnabus, a half-mouse, half-elephant “Failed Project” lives hidden beneath the Perfect Pets store. Dreaming of the world above, Barnabus leads a daring escape with his fellow misfits to avoid being “recycled.” A beautifully illustrated tale of courage, friendship, and embracing who you truly are.
Age: 5-9. Published by: Tundra Books. Pages: 72. Price: $23.99
Thomas’ Snowsuit
Discover adventure this summer with Town of Oakville camps including arts, sports, science, culture, and more for ages 4 to 12. Registration opens Tuesday, February 24 at 7 a.m. Visit oakville.ca to explore options and to register.
connection
RAISE THE STAKES OF FAMILY GAME NIGHT
Getting the entire family together can take a little effort. There is no shortage of activities that pull family members apart most days of the week, from work obligations to sports practices to school events. The United Kingdom-based media provider Independent reported in 2023 on a study of 2,000 parents with children at home. The study found families are only spending six hours a week together, which is less than an hour each day. Furthermore, they only eat meals as a household four days out of seven.
Eking out more time for family may be as easy as scheduling activities that everyone can rally behind. Family
game nights give everyone an excuse to gather at least once a week. These tips can make family game night a can’t-miss activity.
Start with simple games and branch out
The first step to a successful family game night is choosing the right game to engage all participants. This can be challenging when there are young children, teenagers, middleaged adults, and even seniors participating. Visit an independently owned toy and games store and pick the brain of the proprietor. He or she will likely have some suggestions to get you started. As participants
become more comfortable, you can branch out with games.
Make it a recurring event
Set a firm day of the week for the game night. This way participants will block out that date and time and make every attempt to attend. Treat game night like any other important appointment.
Consider games with movement
Game night doesn’t have to mean sitting around a board game, which young children who have trouble sitting still may characterize as a “bored” game. Games that get people moving, whether it’s charades, drawing games or a game such as Twister™ can be more engaging. Game night can also take activities to a golf driving range or an arcade.
Gather for the right reasons
Game night should focus on having the entire family together laughing and competing in a good-natured way. It should not be a strict competition where winning is the only goal. Avoid the potential for sore losers who can sour game nights in a flash by letting everyone know
that fun is the foremost priority of the night.
Offer prizes
Encourage participation with the lure of prizes at the end. Prizes will not just go to the overall winner. There can be humorous awards, such as the player who messed up trivia questions the most, or the one who rolled matching pairs of the dice most frequently. You can customize the winning categories depending on the game played so everyone gets a fighting chance at a prize. Keep awards simple, like candy bars or other appealing treats.
Identify a “game master”
Every game night should feature a game master who presides over the rules of the game. The rules can be the ones strictly off the information sheet, or the ones you customize for your own fun. The game master’s job is to make sure the rules are enforced, but also to determine when it’s alright to let things slide.
Family game nights are a vital way to bring everyone together at least once a week in a manner that is entertaining and fosters solid family relationships.
HAMILTON BEACH
GET READY FOR A BUSY FEBRUARY
February is a month filled with moments that bring families together, from Super Bowl Sunday and Valentine’s Day to the Family Day long weekend. For many parents, these occasions are less about hosting perfectly, and more about finding simple ways to connect, unwind, and enjoy time together.
Food often sits at the centre of these gatherings, and having the right tools can make all the difference. Hamilton Beach Canada offers practical, family-friendly kitchen appliances paired with easy, crowd-pleasing recipes designed to fit real life. Whether it’s kidapproved game-day snacks, a cosy at-home Valentine’s dinner, or a relaxed Family Day meal, these ideas help parents spend less time in the kitchen, and more time around the table – turning everyday meals into meaningful family moments.
Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven | $129.99
A true MVP for effortless entertaining. Air fry, bake, broil, or toast with ease – perfect for sheet-pan favourites made for a crowd. Powerful air circulation delivers evenly browned, crispy results with little to no oil. Available at Bestbuy.ca
Perfect for: Sheet Pan Chicken Nachos
GET READY FOR SUPER BOWL SUNDAY –FEBRUARY 8TH, 2026
Hamilton Beach Digital Hot Air Fryer | $131.98
Enjoy crispy fan favourites with little to no oil. The spacious basket fits plenty of wings, tenders, or veggies to feed a crowd, while faster cooking times ensure halftime snacks are hot and ready to serve. Available at walmart.ca | hamiltonbeach.ca click on cook & create for recipes.
Hamilton Beach Stack & Snap Food Processor | $84.98
Score big on snack prep with dips, toppings, and sauces made in minutes. The generous 10-cup capacity and Big Mouth® feed chute handles whole foods with ease – perfect for party-ready results fast. Available at walmart.ca
Hamilton Beach Belgian Style Flip Waffle Maker | $74.98
Make any at-home breakfast – or date night –special. This waffle maker delivers evenly cooked, golden waffles with adjustable browning and a removable drip tray for hassle-free clean-up. Available at walmart.ca
Perfect for: Red Velvet Waffles
Hamilton Beach 6 Speed Hand Mixer| $95.00
Whip up everything from sugar cookies to fluffy whipped cream with no stops mid-mix. This mixer’s Easy Clean® beaters, six versatile attachments, and handy storage case make Valentine’s baking a breeze. Available on amazon.ca
Perfect for: Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookies
FAMILY DAY – FEBRUARY 16TH, 2026
Hamilton Beach appliances make delicious, stress-free recipes that get the whole family cooking together. Visit hamiltonbeach.ca and click on Cook & Create for recipes, including:
Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp Air Fryer Toaster Oven
Nutella Raspberry Pizza
Heart-Shaped Pizza
Hamilton Beach Digital Hot Air Fryer
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Tenders
Air Fryer Steak and Winter Root Vegetables
Air Fryer Marinated Tofu with Broccoli and Onions
Hamilton Beach Belgian Style Flip Waffle Maker
Buttermilk Waffles
French Toast Waffles
Hamilton Beach Stack & Snap Food Processor
Smoked Gouda Bacon Macaroni and Cheese
Warm Butternut Squash and Quinoa Salad
Heart-Shaped Pizza
Buttermilk Waffles
Smoked
Gouda Bacon Macaroni and Cheese
LEGO® STRANGER THINGS
Get ready, Stranger Things fans – Hawkins is calling one last time. To kick off Volume 1 of the show’s highly anticipated fifth and final season, the LEGO® Group, Netflix, and the Duffer Brothers have unleashed the LEGO® Icons Stranger Things: The Creel House set – a 2,593-piece dive into the most haunted house in Hawkins.
Lift the gothic façade and step inside seven spine-tingling rooms, from Alice and Henry’s bedrooms to the shadowed upstairs hallway, all the way to Vecna’s Mind Lair with its infamous grandfather clock. But beware – nothing here is ever what it seems.
And the thrills don’t stop there. This is LEGO’s first-ever transforming house: a hidden mechanism splits the exterior to reveal the interdimensional horrors lurking inside, showing the Creel House in multiple eerie states. Add Steve’s car, the WSQK radio van, and Will’s bike, and you’ve got everything you need to recreate desperate chases, late-night rescues, or another close encounter with a Demogorgon. It’s the ultimate build for fans ready to face Hawkins one final time.
Available at LEGO ® stores and select retailers across Canada
Features richly detailed façade with an open-back design, revealing seven fully furnished rooms, including Alice’s bedroom, Henry’s bedroom, the haunted upstairs hallway, and Vecna’s Mind Lair with the grandfather clock. LEGO’s first-ever transforming house mechanism and iconic in-universe vehicles, including Steve’s car, the WSQK radio station van, and Will’s bike – perfect for recreating suspenseful chases and dramatic encounters.
LEGO® BrickHeadz™ Stranger Things$49.99 | 584 pieces for 10+
LEGO® Icons Stranger Things: The Creel House - $399.99 | 2,593 pieces for 18+
On a clear night, gazing up at the expansive cosmos above can leave one feeling humbled and awed in equal measure. This is nothing new. Since time began, humans have looked up at the stars in wonderment.
Pretty quickly, we also discovered stargazing had a practical benefit: one could navigate by the stars, a realization that opened the world to exploration, trade, and cultural exchange.
Sky Stories, a brand-new winter program at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, takes visitors on an immersive journey into the past to discover how the stars above shaped the lives of Jesuit Missionaries and Wendat (Huron) people they lived among.
Founded in 1639, Sainte-Marie was the headquarters for the French Jesuit Mission to the Huron-Wendat people. By 1648, the mission included soldiers’ barracks, a church, workshops, barnyard, and residences that accommodated 66 French men. The following year, the community was abandoned.
Three centuries later, the mission was reconstructed as a living history
family fun WINTER IN SAINTE-MARIE
museum and to Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is one of Ontario’s premiere historic attractions.
“We’re excited to now share Sky Stories with the public at Sainte Marie among the Hurons, offering a fresh opportunity for visitors to connect with the site in a meaningful new way,” says Mikaela Lefaive, Marketing Coordinator.
Sky Stories begins in the modern Visitors’ Centre, where a historical interpreter greets visitors before they watch Sainte Marie’s 15-minute introductory film. They then receive
an overview of how the night sky shaped worldviews, navigation, and seasonal knowledge in the 17th century.
From there, guests are guided through the historic grounds to the two buildings that play a part of Sky Stories programming.
First, the tour steps into the sacred space that is the Church of St. Joseph, built to minister to the spiritual needs of the Huron (Wendat) people. Here, the interpreter talks about the Jesuits and their relationship with the stars.
The Jesuits were among the leading astronomers of the 17thcentury. They operated advanced observatories across Europe, China, and South America. In China, their ability to accurately predict eclipses and refine calendars earned them significant trust and influence among local scholars.
Leaving the Church of St. Joseph, the tour heads over to the Longhouse, a traditional Wendat dwelling. Here, the evening culminates with guests gathering around the fire to hear about First Nations perspectives on the constellations. As common with Indigenous Nations across North America, the Wendat used the stars to mark seasons, guide travel, and support ceremonial life.
Guests can extend their evening experience by enjoying a meal at Restaurant Sainte-Marie, or settling into a pre-booked cabin located just outside the palisade.
Tours are held Friday-Sunday during the winter. Tickets are $8.85 per person. Ages 11+
For more information go to saintemarieamongthehurons.on.ca
WORDS BY ANDREW HIND
FEBRUARY 2026 MOVIE PICKS FROM OLD CLASSICS TO MODERN DAY HITS
Romona and Beezus – 2010 – 20th Century Fox, Summit Entertainment Ramona Quimby is an imaginative, high-energy third grader whose big ideas often lead to trouble. When her father loses his job, the family’s finances grow tight, and Ramona’s attempts to earn money only cause more messes and embarrassment for her older sister Beezus. Worried after hearing that a classmate’s parents divorced during a similar crisis, Ramona fears her own family might fall apart. A string of mishaps – including a disastrous school photo, a kitchen fire, and the loss of the family cat – adds to the stress but also brings the Quimbys closer. Meanwhile, Aunt Bea reconnects with her childhood sweetheart Hobart, leading to an unexpected proposal. After a dramatic moment during the home’s open house and a brief attempt to run away, Ramona realizes how deeply she’s loved.
The Willoughbys – 2020 - Netflix
Karate Kid – 1984 - Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Daniel LaRusso moves with his mother from Newark to Reseda, California just as the school year begins. He strikes up a friendship with Ali Mills, which puts him at odds with her ex-boyfriend, Johnny Lawrence, and the Cobra Kai crowd. After the gang beats him up, Daniel finds support in an unexpected place: his apartment’s handyman, Mr. Miyagi, who happens to be a skilled karate master. Miyagi negotiates a truce with Cobra Kai’s harsh sensei, John Kreese, and begins training Daniel for the All-Valley Karate Tournament.
A sardonic cat narrates the tale of the Willoughby siblings – Tim, Jane, and the twin Barnabys – who come from a distinguished family line but are neglected by their self-absorbed parents. When Jane discovers an abandoned baby on their doorstep, chaos erupts, and the children are expelled until they dispose of the infant. Following a rainbow, they leave the baby – whom they name Ruth – at Mr. Melanoff’s candy factory. Realizing their lives would improve without their cruel parents, the siblings create a travel brochure filled with deadly destinations, prompting Mr. and Mrs. Willoughby to embark on a perilous trip. A kindly nanny named Linda soon arrives and becomes the nurturing adult the children never had, though Tim mistrusts her at first.
A misunderstanding leads Tim to alert Orphan Services, resulting in the siblings’ separation. With the cat’s help, Linda rescues them, and together they attempt to retrieve their parents. Ultimately abandoned again, the children are saved by Linda, Melanoff, and Ruth, and are finally adopted into a loving family
Woody Woodpecker Goes to Camp 2024 – Universal Pictures
Woody is sent to Camp Woo Hoo to learn teamwork, but his chaos makes things tricky. Meanwhile, escaped convict Buzz Buzzard disguises himself to hunt for a hidden treasure and keeps sabotaging the camp, leaving Woody to take the blame. With the camp on the brink of being shut down, Woody helps the kids compete in the Wilderness Games, where they learn to use their creativity to beat rival Camp Hoo Rah. Woody uncovers Buzz’s plan to take over both camps, exposes him, and saves Maggie during the final chase. The “treasure” turns out to be the camps’ own statue, and the two camps unite. Woody earns redemption and promises to return next summer. Buzz is re-arrested in the mid-credit’s scene.
COLOUR ME
Get out your pencils or crayons and make this Valentine’s Day canvas come to life!
AGA KHAN MUSEUM Don’t miss a full weekend of creativity, inspiration, and activities during Family Day weekend! From Feb. 14 to 16, create your own masterpiece in a hands-on workshop, enjoy free live performances, and experience exhilarating demonstrations throughout the Aga Khan Museum. “From calligraphy in the Atrium to lantern painting workshops, create, experiment, and connect through art inspired by the Museum’s collections and the Lunar New Year. Supported by the Lee Tak Wai Foundation and presented in partnership with the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto. learn@agakhanmuseum.org | agakhanmuseum.org/familyday
416.646.4677
77 Wynford Drive Toronto, ON agakhanmuseum.org
AGA KHAN MUSEUM From March 9-13, turn your little artist’s March Break into a week of creativity and imagination at the Aga Khan Museum where they will dive into hands-on artistic camps inspired by the Museum’s collections and exhibitions. Each day sparks creativity through calligraphy, geometric design, storytelling, bookmaking, and illuminated art, using a mix of traditional techniques and contemporary materials. Campers will draw, paint, print, and build while developing confidence, curiosity, and new friendships in a welcoming environment. Full week and single day registration available. learn@agakhanmuseum.org | agakhanmuseum.org/marchbreakcamps
416.646.4677
77 Wynford Drive Toronto, ON agakhanmuseum.org
FOR MORE THAN 75 YEARS , Camp Kandalore has offered a unique overnight camp for ages 6 to 16, blending canoe tripping with diverse camp activities. Located in the Algonquin Highlands, Kandalore is renowned for developing camping and recreational skills. With up to 30 activities, campers find their passion. The camp provides an unparalleled canoetripping experience, introducing new skills and challenges as campers age. Adventures range from a single overnight to a 12-day whitewater trip. Campers and staff form a warm, inclusive community celebrating fun, nature, and learning. Kandalore also runs an Outdoor Education Centre from September to June for schools and groups. operates an Outdoor Education Centre (OEC) from September to June, offering outdoor experiences to schools and groups. camp@kandalore.com | kandalore.com
DEARCROFT MONTESSORI offers a rich, child-centred education across three unique locations, united by a shared commitment to authentic Montessori philosophy. Each campus provides carefully prepared environments where curiosity, independence, and a love of learning are nurtured from the early years through to Grade 8. Our experienced educators guide students academically, socially, and emotionally, ensuring continuity, consistency, and deep relationships as children grow. Families benefit from a strong, connected community, enriched programs such as French, Music, Cultural studies, and outdoor learning, and a clear educational pathway that supports longterm development. Dearcroft’s three locations work together to provide a seamless Montessori journey, empowering confident, capable, and compassionate learners at every stage. info@dearcroftmontessoritc.com | dearcroft-montessori.com
905.257.3200
Providing 3 visits at all participating locations to children ages 6 - 12 for only $39.99 + tax.
Providing 3 visits at all participating locations to children ages 6 - 12 for only $39.99 + tax.
Providing 3 visits at all participating locations to children ages 6 - 12 for only $39.99 + tax. The
Providing 3 visits at all participating locations to children ages 6 - 12 for only $39.99 + tax.
Plan your visit here!
Family day weekend at your toronto zoo!
Did you know that your Toronto Zoo is open 365 days a year? Enjoy year-round adventures with nearly 3,000 animals, 10kms of walking trails and five indoor tropical pavilions to escape the cold! Bring your family to meet ours this Family Day long weekend for fun Zoo activities, including Meet the Guardians talks, animal enrichment, Orchid Oasis, special Gabby’s Dollhouse character meet-and-greets, and more!
