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TERMS AND INDEMNIFICATION
Small business spotlight: Featured Entrepreneur: Dana Clark of Cool to Connect
Parenting: Smartphone Nation – Dr. Kaitlyn Regehr’s new book empowers and teaches families how to thrive in this age of smartphones
Private and Montessori Schools
Safety: Happy Days Sanctuary: Emergency preparedness in wildfire and environmental disaster evacuations
Havergal
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Health: Liam’s Mission is raising awareness about cystic fibrosis
up front A
MOMENT TO PAUSE, REFLECT, AND BEGIN AGAIN
September has always held a quiet kind of magic.
It carries the energy of a fresh start – sharpened pencils, cooler mornings, packed lunches, and new beginnings.
Whether your child is stepping into their very first classroom or simply returning to a familiar school rhythm, there’s something about this time of year that invites us to pause and reset.
But before we rush into new schedules, new goals, and new routines, this season also offers a gentle opportunity to reflect – to take a moment to look back at the joy and growth of summer, and to carry its memory forward.
That’s why we created this special Time Capsule Activity for Kids, centred around two simple but meaningful themes:
The Summer I’ll Never Forget and My September Reset
These worksheets were designed as a way for children to reflect on what they’ve experienced, learned, and loved this summer, and to think about the kind of energy they want to bring into the new season ahead.
The prompts are intentionally open-ended – inviting children to share memories, set personal intentions, and capture the essence of who they are right now. It’s not about making resolutions or striving for perfection. It’s about presence. Awareness. And creating a little space to notice and name their own growth.
You can print and fill these out together as a family, in the classroom, or even one-on-one with your child as a quiet weekend activity. Encourage them to add drawings, photos, or a small keepsake, then tuck it into a box or envelope and seal it with a simple label: “Do not open until next September.”
A year from now, they’ll open it with fresh eyes – and likely a bigger heart – and see how much they’ve changed. That’s the beauty of a time capsule. It reminds us that while time flies, the moments we choose to mark become timeless.
We hope this becomes a sweet tradition in your home or classroom – a way to connect, reflect, and celebrate the journey.
Mary Racioppo Editor-In-Chief, City Parent
THE QR CODE or go to or cityparent.com for easy printable downloads under stories/resources.
Town Hall Kick-o
September 19 | 10 a.m.
Glen Abbey Community Centre
September 20 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Heritage Square on Kerr Street
September 27 | 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Oakville Museum
September 27 | 1 to 4:30 p.m.
Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre
October 5 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts
October 11 at 2 & 7 p.m.
neurodivergence WHAT CAN BE DONE TO HELP STUDENTS WITH ADHD IMPROVE FOCUS
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may seem like a relatively recent phenomenon that perhaps developed late in the twentieth century, when more and more distractions started vying for humans’ attention. However, WebMD notes the condition actually dates back several centuries to 1798, when a Scottish doctor recognized some people were more easily distracted than others.
The ADHD people know today may or may not bear much resemblance to the condition first identified in the eighteenth century, but it’s notable that issues affecting human beings’ ability to focus are not exactly a recent phenomenon. Many students with ADHD, diagnosed or undiagnosed, face an uphill battle in the classroom, where the ability to focus is integral to their success. It may take some trial and error and some help from educators and physicians, but the following
are some strategies that could help students with ADHD as they seek to improve their focus in the classroom.
Ask
educators about behavioural classroom management
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes behavioural classroom management is an approach that involves encouraging students when they behave positively in a classroom. The approach may be centred around a reward system or involve teachers issuing daily report cards. Teachers also discourage negative behaviours. The CDC notes behavioural classroom management is driven by teachers and has been shown to have a constructive impact on students of all ages that increases their academic engagement.
Emphasize organization skills
The CDC notes organizational training that emphasizes time
management and planning has been tested on children and adolescents and found to be effective. The Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA) suggests people with ADHD learn how to break down complex tasks, such as end-of-semester school projects or exams, into smaller sub-tasks, and the planning skills emphasized by the CDC can be employed to do just that.
Take breaks
It’s hard for anyone to maintain intense focus for lengthy periods of time, and that’s true for people with ADHD and those who do not have the condition. A report from the American Psychological Association notes that routine breaks from challenging tasks, including coursework, can restore energy, prevent burnout and improve performance. Fatigue
can compromise a person’s ability to focus, so students and parents should not see routine breaks as counterproductive in relation to the goal of improving focus. In fact, purposeful breaks that are not too long can sharpen focus.
Adjust students’ environment
The ADDA notes that several strategies can help students optimize their environment so they can better focus on the task at hand. Utilizing noise-cancelling headphones while studying in a quiet spot away from noise and distraction is one way students can optimize their environment. Turning off smartphone notifications, periodically decluttering a workspace and keeping only study materials in spots where schoolwork is done can help students with ADHD sharpen their focus.
COUNTRY PLAYMOBIL
Playmobil Country is a popular theme that brings the charm and excitement of rural life to children through detailed and engaging playsets. Designed to reflect the daily activities and lifestyle of farm life, the Country series includes farm animals, stables, tractors, and more — encouraging imaginative play and an appreciation for nature and animals.
Available at playmobil.com, amazon.ca and where Playmobil toys are sold.
Homemade Strawberry Jam Stall – $14.44
Young Shepherd with flock of Sheep –$22.99
Idyllic Vegetable Garden with Grandparents – $37.99
Tractor with Trailer and Water Tank –$69.99
Cosy Café with Vegetable Garden – $89.99
parenting
SMARTPHONE NATION:
DR.
KAITLYN REGEHR’S
NEW
BOOK
EMPOWERS
AND TEACHES FAMILIES HOW TO THRIVE IN THIS DIGITAL AGE OF SMARTPHONES
WORDS BY LORRAINE PELLEY
Since the introduction of the smartphone three decades ago, this digital technology has become so intertwined in our lives that it’s hard to imagine what life was like beforehand. Owning a personal smartphone has become so normalized that many children are introduced to digital devices before their first birthday. On average, children are receiving their first smartphone before their 12th birthday. By the age of 14 years, over 90 per cent of children have their own smartphones.
There is no denying the numerous benefits that smartphones offer personally, academically and professionally. Almost everything we need or want is accessible almost instantly within the palm of our hands. But there is also a darker and more addictive side to smartphones that can’t be ignored.
Dr. Kaitlyn Regehr’s book, Smartphone Nation: Why We’re All Addicted to Our Phones and What Your Family Can Do About It discusses the benefits and pitfalls of smartphones including microdosing, echo chambers, over sharing, misinformation, algorithms and online scams. She gives real life examples and provides sound advice, exercises and tips so her readers learn to navigate the digital world safely.
Dr. Regehr is a global expert on digital literacy whose research mainly focuses on the impacts of smartphones and social media on youth. Her book discusses everything families need to know about smartphones so adults and children can thrive in this digital world.
Smartphone Nation: Why We’re All Addicted to Our Phones and What Your Family Can Do About It prioritizes smartphone usage in a pyramid style format that clearly outlines from top to bottom when and how people should be using
their smartphones to avoid passive scrolling and addictive behaviours that can open the door to negative microdoses of information.
Dr. Regehr talks candidly about this more dangerous and addictive side of smartphones. For example, she explains how algorithms are used to limit the information users see and the harmful effects this can have. By the end of the book, readers learn how to spot harmful microdoses and manage algorithms, catch misinformation, improve their digital viewing and protect personal information to create a more healthy and positive viewing experience. She provides concrete examples, tips, science-backed strategies and doable exercises so parents have the knowledge and tools needed to safeguard their children from harmful content.
She also discusses the dangers of sharing personal information online. Parents sharing their child’s birth, schooling and other accomplishments on different social media platforms isn’t seen by friends and family only. Scammers can easily access this information and save it in databases so they can use it later to steal the child’s identity and banked savings in their adult years.
Smartphone Nation: Why We’re All Addicted to Our Phones and What
Your Family Can Do About It provides alarming information and statistics on this topic, as well as tips and advice so parents can share information about their children with their closest friends and family more safely and securely.
Dr. Regehr earned her PhD from Kings College London in London, England. She is an Associate Professor and Programme Director of Digital Humanities at the University of College London.
She is often the topic specialist and producer of documentaries shown on BBC News, Discovery Channel, Channel 4 and the Discovery Channel. She’s also spoken publicly on radio shows, podcasts and other public events.
Smartphone Nation: Why We’re All Addicted to Our Phones and What Your Family Can Do About It will be available this month in most bookstores as well as online.
SMARTPHONE
NATION: Why We’re All Addicted to Our Phones and What Your Family Can Do About It discusses the benefits and pitfalls of smartphones including microdosing, echo chambers, over sharing, misinformation, algorithms and online scams.
CAMP MILES
BACK TO SCHOOL, STILL FEELING SUMMER
School’s back, but summer vibes are still going strong! Miles the Label has the perfect transitional styles for kids — think lightweight layers, playful prints, and comfy fits made for both classroom cool and after-school fun. Dress them in pieces that keep the sunshine spirit alive, even as the bell rings. milesthelable.com
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1. Mint & Navy Striped Polo – $26.40 2. Off-White Embroidered Gauze Top – $25.20 and Wide-Leg Pants – $22.80
3. Lattice Pattern Embroidered on Smocked Eyelet Dress – $27.60
4. Mint Chip Shorts Set – $27.60
5. Orange Print on Birch Terry Cloth Shorts Set – $48.80
6. Pineapple Print Half-Zip Polo Shorts Terry Cloth Set – $30.00
7. Two Scoops on Jersey Racerback Dress – $22.80
8. Apricot & Birch Striped Crochet Knit Tank Top – $28.80 and Shorts – $26.40
9. Olive Branch Print on Sahara Sun Button-Up Linen Peplum Top – $26.40 and Shorts – $25.20
september COOL THINGS
Avène
These new products for sensitive skin are free from preservatives, fragrance and alcohol without compromising performance with these latest products.
Avène Soothing Eye Contour Cream – $38.00
This soothing eye contour cream calms redness, decongests, and reduces signs of fatigue. Fragrance-free and alcoholfree with a skin-friendly pH, it features dextran sulfate, alpha bisabolol, and safflower oil to soothe, smooth, and strengthen – ideal for eczema-prone skin.
Avène Hydrance Lotion Deep Moist Plumping Toner – $30.00
Simplify your routine with Hydrance. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, aloe vera polysaccharides, and Avène Thermal Spring Water, it hydrates, soothes, and strengthens. Start with the Hydrance Lotion Toner for instant moisture, radiance, and smoother skin – no seasonal swaps needed.
Avène Aqua-Gel – $53.00
Follow with Hydrance Aqua-Gel Cream – a smart, adaptive moisturizer that adjusts to your skin’s needs. Light, fresh, and hydrating, it delivers year-round comfort for all skin types.
Kindle Colorsoft Family
A fun, distraction-free reading device for kids with a colourful cover, 12-month Amazon Kids+ subscription, and a two-year worry-free guarantee. Includes smart tools like Vocabulary Builder, Word Wise, and OpenDyslexic font. Parents stay in control with the Amazon Parent Dashboard for managing content, screen time, and educational goals. $294.99 available on amazon.ca
Kindle Colorsoft (16GB)
Everything you love about Kindle – now with a vibrant, high-contrast colour display, adjustable warm lighting, quicker page turns, and a battery that lasts up to 8 weeks. $264.99
Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition (32GB)
Enjoy a next-level reading experience with wireless charging, an auto-adjusting front light for any environment, and three months of Kindle Unlimited included to explore thousands of titles. $309.99
Rascals – Night Pants for Boys and Girls
Yoto – Wicked: The Soundtrack
Visit Oz before Dorothy and join Elphaba and Glinda’s journey of friendship, courage, and self-discovery. Featuring powerful vocals and hits like “Defying Gravity” and “Popular”, it’s a magical, sing-along experience for all ages – starring Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jeff Goldblum, and more. It works with the Yoto Player (3rd Generation – $134.99), the Yoto Mini (2024 Edition – $99.99), and the free Yoto App, giving kids flexible ways to listen wherever they are. The Wicked Yoto card is available for $19.99 at yotoplay.com
Rascals Night Pants is a premium nighttime underwear for kids aged 4–15. With up to 12 hours of leak-free protection, they’re discreet, comfy, and confidence-boosting. Designed to ease stress for parents and help kids sleep better – because fewer messes mean brighter mornings for everyone. 12-hour leak protection: Triple elastics keep sheets dry all night. Odour block tech: Helps kids wake up fresh and confident. Underwear-like fit: Sleek, stretchy, and discreet. Money-back guarantee: Dry sheets or your money back. Sizes: S/M: 38–70 lbs, L: 64–99 lbs, XL: 95–143+ lbs $29.97 available at Walmart
small business spotlight
FEATURED ENTREPRENEUR: DANA CLARK OF COOL TO CONNECT
Cool To Connect is a Torontobased lifestyle brand dedicated to making meaningful connection both accessible and stylish. Founded by Dana Clark, the company offers thoughtfully designed products that encourage deeper conversations and self-reflection. Their offerings include conversation prompt card decks, guided journals, and interactive tools aimed at fostering intentional interactions in various settings – from personal relationships to group gatherings.
Dana Clark launched Cool To Connect as an extension of her broader social impact initiative, Heroic Humans. This movement celebrates everyday acts of heroism and aims to inspire individuals to make positive changes in their communities. Through Cool To Connect, Clark sought to provide tangible tools that help people cultivate deeper relationships with themselves and others. The brand’s products are designed to be both aesthetically pleasing and impactful, offering users a unique experience that promotes reflection and meaningful dialogue.
COOL TO CONNECT IS A TORONTO-BASED LIFESTYLE BRAND DEDICATED TO MAKING MEANINGFUL CONNECTION BOTH ACCESSIBLE AND STYLISH.
Cool To Connect’s product line includes:
Conversation Prompt Decks: These decks feature curated questions and prompts designed to spark engaging conversations, making them ideal for social events, family gatherings, or personal reflection.
Guided Journals: Structured to encourage daily mindfulness and self-awareness, these journals guide users through themes like gratitude, self-love, and personal growth.
Interactive Tools: Products like the Conversation Dice and Affirmation Dice add a playful element to the practice of connection, making it easier to engage in meaningful interactions.
1. Cool to Connect: Kids These 52 cards inspire kids through connection and affirmation,
featuring prompts and questions to encourage deeper thinking and emotional empowerment. Designed to spark reflection, conversation, and self-advocacy, they also enhance listening skills and help you discover more about your child’s inner world. – $37.00
2. Cool to Connect: Classic The Classic deck helps people connect and talk to each other. 52 cards offer prompts to start conversations. Great for talking with friends, family, teammates, coworkers, and partners. Can also be used for journal writing. – $37.00
BACK-TO-SCHOOL MADE EASY WITH HAMILTON BEACH
Make back-to-school mornings a breeze with Hamilton Beach time-saving appliances! From quick and easy breakfast makers to efficient lunch prep tools, our smart solutions help busy families save time without sacrificing flavour. Whether it’s a grab-and-go smoothie or a perfectly toasted sandwich, Hamilton Beach helps you start the school day right – fast, fresh, and stress-free.
The compact toaster oven handles daily tasks with ease, from toasting bread to cooking frozen meals or gourmet dishes, and reheating leftovers. Its space-saving design offers three versatile functions – toast, bake, and broil – bringing convenience to your kitchen without taking up valuable countertop space. $62.98 available at walmart.ca
Whether you’re off to an early class or managing a busy day, the Hamilton Beach® Personal Blender fits seamlessly into your routine. Its 14 oz. jar doubles as a travel cup – just blend and take it with you. $22.99 available on amazon.ca
Early mornings are tough, but coffee doesn’t have to be. The Hamilton Beach® FlexBrew Trio brews a single cup in 90 seconds or a full 12-cup pot – perfect for roommates or family. Prep ahead, set the timer, and wake up to fresh coffee, hassle-free.
$119.98 available at bestbuy.ca
Recipes for these products can be found at hamiltonbeach.ca under Cook and Create
Hamilton Beach® Personal Blender
Hamilton Beach® Toaster Oven
Hamilton Beach® FlexBrew Trio Coffee Maker
safety
HAPPY DAYS SANCTUARY: EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS IN WILDFIRE AND ENVIRONMENTAL DISASTER EVACUATIONS
Wildfires are an increasing concern across the country. Between 2015 to 2022, an average 800,000 hectares of forest were lost due to wildfires annually. However, as the climate changes, the risk of environmental disasters is increasing every year and outcomes are becoming more devastating. In 2023, a record breaking 15 million hectares for forest were destroyed by wildfires across Canada.
This year, 3.7 million hectares of forest had already been destroyed by wildfires by the end of June.
Throughout July and August, wildfires continued to ravage forests and communities throughout the country and forced thousands of people to evacuate their homes.
When natural disasters happen, it’s not just the forests that are affected. Wildlife, ecosystems and communities are also impacted. For those impacted by wildfires and other environmental disasters, evacuating your home is a time filled with fear, anxiety and uncertainty. This stress is made worse when the family has a pet. For most pet owners, their animals are beloved members of their family, so their safety and wellbeing is
WORDS BY LORRAINE PELLEY
equally important. Early planning and preparations are essential to ensure your whole family, including your pets, are safe and cared for.
Planning an evacuation strategy and emergency kit for your animal, as well as one for yourself and your family, will help ease some of the anxiety and worry if you have to leave your home.
One of the first things you should do is make a list of animal-friendly accommodations in nearby cities. One of the biggest challenges many pet owners have faced is struggling to find a place where they can stay with their pet after they are evacuated. Many hotels and evacuation sites don’t allow pets. This has left families struggling to find adequate accommodations or having to make unimaginable decisions on what to do with their treasured family member after they have left their home.
Make a list of local animal rescues, shelters and sanctuaries and contact them to see how they can help. Every province and territory has animal service groups that will step in to help care for animals impacted by environmental emergencies.
Knowing who these groups are will reduce a lot of worry if you are forced to evacuate.
Ann Swinson, along with Shane Swinson, opened Happy Days Sanctuary in rural Niagara, Ontario in response to the 2016 wildfires in Fort McMurray. Their sanctuary has become a haven for a variety of animals that have been displaced by environmental disasters.
Prepare an emergency kit in a waterproof bin for your pets as well as for yourself and keep them together by your home’s entrance so you can grab what you need quickly.
For those living in remote areas, evacuations, especially with pets, can be even more challenging. Limited transportation options and access to services means advance preparation is even more essential to ensure everyone’s safety. Community emergency planning should include pet and animal care as well as resident care. If families are forced to leave their pets behind, they need to know that someone is taking care of their beloved animals.
As we’ve seen in recent years, environmental disasters are
JUST THE FACTS
According to Shane Swinson, Executive Vice President, Insurance Portfolio at First Onsite Restoration, a pet emergency kit should include:
• one to two weeks worth of food, water and any medications your pet is taking
• treats • toys
• medical records
• leash • muzzle
• pet blanket
• animal crate or carrier
• list of animal shelters, vets, and animal-friendly accommodations
• other supplies you may need
becoming more frequent and are causing more severe outcomes. Wildfires can spread quickly and force people and their pets to evacuate with very little notice. Emergency preparation is essential to ensure the safety of your family and your pets.
For more information, visit hdsanctuary.com
family fun LAURA’S FARM STAND
WORDS BY ANDREW HIND
There’s something about a farm that captures the atmosphere of the seas. A striking field of sunflowers as golden as a setting sun. A sea of ramrod straight corn stalks. Plump pumpkins rolling across the ground, ready for carving.
If that sounds to you like the perfect way to celebrate a season, head to Laura’s Farm Stand near Cookstown.
Raised on a family farm, Laura Wardlaw started her own venture into agriculture in 2011, opening Laura’s Farm Stand. As the name suggests, the venture was originally just a roadside stand selling vegetables grown on her 30-acre farm, but over time she dove into agritourism.
Families can be thankful that she did, as Laura’s Farm Stand is a joyful place to spend an afternoon in the summer and autumn. Its popularity is such that Laura’s Farm Stand is now one of the region’s most popular agritourism destinations.
Throughout the summer, fields are alive with colour as wildflower fields burst into brilliant bloom. There are tens of thousands of flowers of various types and in every colour nature can imagine. These blooms made a spectacular backdrop for family photos. You can also pick your own flowers and build a bouquet to take home with you at the end of your visit.
As the shadows begin to lengthen and evenings cool, sunflowers burst into brilliance to remind us that summer is on its last legs. Celebrate the tail end of the season by exploring the one-half km long Sunflower Trail at Laura’s Farm Stand. In the middle of the trail, pause for a moment and enjoy the experience of being surrounded by a sea of yellow.
A trail of another kind emerges as summer gives way to autumn. The traditional corn maze is a favourite with people of all ages. Covering five acres, the maze is sizeable enough for a thrill but no so large that you’ll get turned around and frustrated, making it ideal for children. Expect it to take about a half hour to complete.
No visit to an autumn farm would be complete without the opportunity to pick your own pumpkin (flannel coats optional). Venture out into the patch to pluck the perfect pumpkin from their twisting vines. With more
than sixty different types of gourds cultivated, there are plenty of options. Be sure to capture the experience with photos. The pumpkin patch runs until October 31.
Never fear, however, if you don’t want to venture out into the fields. You can select from pre-picked pumpkins at the farm stand.
Be sure to circle your calendar for September 20 and 21 when the farm hosts a market attended by over 100 vendors, selling everything from honey to baked goods to crafts.
As the seasons change, so too does Laura’s Farm Stand. You may find yourself inspired to visit more than once.
JUST THE FACTS
Location: 5590 County Road 27, Cookstown
For more information go to: laurasfarmstand.com
Backpacks, lunch kits, notebooks –check. But when was the last time you sized up your child’s shoes?
Footwear may be one of the most underappreciated school supplies. Pediatric foot specialists say children’s feet grow faster than adults’, especially under age 12. Some kids can outgrow shoes three to four times a year as their cartilage and bones develop. And with growing feet come growing style preferences – which makes finding the right pair trickier than ever.
That’s where trained fitters at specialty stores come in – helping families match shoes to foot health and busy school-day routines. Sean McGrath, president, New Balance Toronto/Fit4Balance Inc., has spent decades guiding parents through the process.
“Most kids do well with a good pair of runners,” McGrath explains. “They’re built for forward motion and cushioning, so they work for everyday wear – class, recess, gym. But when children start organized sports like soccer or basketball, it’s worth considering activity-specific shoes with added traction and lateral support.”
SOME KIDS CAN OUTGROW SHOES THREE TO FOUR TIMES A YEAR AS THEIR CARTILAGE AND BONES DEVELOP.
if the shoe fits BACK
TO SCHOOL SHOES
WORDS BY MARYLENE VESTERGOM
Kids grow fast – but your budget doesn’t have to. New Balance carries shoes for all ages, and right now, there’s a special offer just for little feet: buy one pair in kids’ sizes (from toddlers up to age 8) and get the second for 50% off. It’s a smart way to keep them moving, without overspending.
For most kids:
• One well-fitting running shoe can cover school and casual sports.
• Specialized shoes make sense for team sports or intensive training.
• The priority is fit, flexibility, and support – not a closet full of sneakers. When it comes to fit, McGrath and his team emphasize the essentials. They can guide families toward shoes suited for specific needs – like wider sizing, extra support, or orthotic room.
Shoe Fit 101:
What parents should know
• Toe room: Leave a thumb’s width at the front. Toes should wiggle freely
• Insole check: Have your child stand on the insole to gauge interior fit –heels and toes should stay within the edges with wiggle room.
• Width: Snug, not tight. No bulging or squeezing across the ball of the foot.
• Heel fit: Aim for a secure hold.
• Sole support: Toddlers need flexible shoes. Older kids benefit from sturdier soles.
• Ease: Velcro or elastic laces help with independence and ensure a proper lockdown.
• Try-on rules: Test shoes on both feet – one foot is often larger.
• Walk test: Watch for awkward gait, limping, or complaints.
ACCORDING TO THE CANADIAN FEDERATION OF PODIATRIC MEDICINE, KIDS’ FEET SWEAT MORE THAN ADULTS’, AND DAMP SHOES CAN CAUSE ATHLETE’S FOOT OR PLANTAR WARTS.
One often-overlooked factor? Rotation. According to the Canadian Federation of Podiatric Medicine, kids’ feet sweat more than adults’, and damp shoes can cause athlete’s foot or plantar warts. Alternating shoes every other day allows them to fully dry and decompress. If possible, have one pair for school and one for gym or play.
McGrath says many parents unknowingly make simple mistakes – like guessing shoe size, buying too big “to grow into,” or choosing fashion over function. His top tip? Make fit the priority, no matter where you shop. Just like car tires, kids’ shoes need regular checks and occasional rotation.
“Footwear sets the foundation for how kids move, learn, and play,” he says. “Shoes are the real MVP of school supplies.”
STEM-INSPIRED LEGO
The LEGO Group is helping kids head back to school with a range of exciting, STEMinspired sets that spark curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning. From building a working submarine to exploring space with a roller coaster model, each set turns screen-free fun into real-world discovery.
With LEGO, science, tech, engineering, and math become playful adventures – encouraging kids to experiment, problem-solve, and think critically through imaginative building. With themes like robotics, space, paleontology, and nature, there’s something to inspire every young learner.
Plus, the Herschel x LEGO collab features playful, brick-themed backpacks – perfect for toting their gear as they learn and grow this school year. Available at LEGO.ca, LEGO stores, and select retailers across Canada.
1. LEGO® Friends Friendship Tree House Hangout $89.99 – Ages 8+, 701 pieces.
LIAM’S MISSION IS RAISING AWARENESS ABOUT CYSTIC FIBROSIS
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that causes irreversible damage to one or more organs and systems including the lungs, digestive track, pancreas, and other organs. Children with cystic fibrosis often have trouble breathing and lack proper nutrition. The severity and symptoms of the disorder varies from person to person.
Learning your baby has cystic fibrosis is the beginning of a lifelong and emotional journey. Parents often find themselves doing endless research, advocacy, emails, calls, filling out lengthy applications, endless appointments as well as frequent and lengthy hospital stays.
Children born with cystic fibrosis face their own emotional and physical
WORDS BY LORRAINE PELLEY
challenges. Feeling different from your peers, missing school and other activities due to illness or infection and hospitalizations, and living with the symptoms and restrictions caused by the disease is difficult.
Deana Wilson, and her son, Liam, understand these challenges all too well. At three weeks of age, Liam, a spunky grade 5 student who likes math, science and track and field, was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis.
Since his diagnosis, Deana has been Liam’s biggest advocate. She started Liam’s Mission as a way to share her knowledge and experiences with other families and raise public awareness about the disorder when her son was a baby.
Liam’s Mission, a charitable initiative, provides information and resources, support, advocacy and encouragement to other families. One of the initiative’s main activities is creating activity and picture books to help kids and teenagers with cystic fibrosis, families, professionals and educators understand the disease and its challenges. Deana has currently developed eight activity books. Each book focuses on advocacy, support, knowledge sharing and guidance through a variety of easy-to-do activities and practical tips.
Their recently published workbook, A Warrior Mind: Mental Health Workbook for Teens, was created to help children and teenagers understand and deal with their emotions and the mental toll having cystic fibrosis can take. The book is filled with supportive activities
and tips to help relieve stress and develop daily mental health rituals.
Other Liam’s Mission workbooks include:
• Ultimate CF Workbooks for Both Parent & Child
• Between Treatments & Triumphs: A Workbook for Adult CF Warriors
• Breathe Brave: A Universal Guide to Loving Our Lungs and Living Fully
• The Warrior Mind: A Mental Health Workbook for Adults
• Brave & Brilliant: A Neurodiversity Workbook for Families
• The Brave Sibling Workbook
• Dear Teacher: A Parent Gift & Guide for Classroom Connection
Each workbook is designed for a specific audience so they develop a better understanding of the disease.
Along with the workbooks Deana has developed, Liam has cowritten and published two uplifting and engaging picture books: Liam, Strong as a Tree and Liam’s Hospital Stay. His third book, Liam’s Chronicles: The Spark within Liam’s Skates, will be available soon.
These stories and workbooks are invaluable resources for families and children with cystic fibrosis. Unlike most resources available to parents, these books are written exclusively by a mom and son who have firsthand, lived experiences and knowledge about cystic fibrosis. They’re sharing their experiences so other families and children with cystic fibrosis don’t have to feel so alone or overwhelmed.
All books and workbooks are available on Liam’s Mission website, Amazon, and Etsy. A portion of the sales proceeds goes towards Toronto SickKids.
Along with their books, Liam’s Mission has participated in several annual events and been interviewed for numerous media stories. Every December, they hold an annual toy drive for Toronto SickKids. Last year they collected two truckloads of toys.
Information about upcoming events, links to the interviews, and their books and other merchandise are available on liamsmission.ca
Private and Montessori SCHOOLS
AN AUTHENTIC AND PROGRESSIVE MONTESSORI SCHOOL Bannockburn Independent School
A leading independent Montessori school since 1993, Bannockburn is recognized throughout Toronto for its outstanding academic standards, a steadfast commitment to Montessori education, and deep respect for the potential in every child. Bannockburn Independent School’s distinction is its unique intersection between Montessori and independent school, offering a dedicated and authentic Montessori curriculum while being a part of Toronto’s established independent school network.
Bannockburn’s three-year learning environments in Primary (ages 3-6), Lower Elementary (ages 6-8), and Upper Elementary (ages 9-12), promote leadership and role-modelling skills in the older students, and provide inspiration and goal-setting for the younger ones. At Bannockburn, we know that children thrive when the family and school are considered a partnership. The entire community is invested in the growth of our students.
Beginning in Toddler, our classrooms are well-organized, thoughtful, and intentional spaces designed to create the roots of lifelong learning. In the Toddler program, the classrooms mirror a home environment with separate areas for preparing and eating food, changing clothes, enjoying books, and having a quiet moment. Toddlers are centered in the classroom experience with furniture and materials sized and accessible just for them. Our Toddler playground is a space designed for imaginative play and exploring.
In Primary, Bannockburn’s Primary classrooms are close and
caring communities. A three-year classroom gives the younger students inspiration from their peers to try new learning challenges, and offers the older students daily opportunities for positive leadership and reinforcement.
The curiosity nurtured in Toddler and Primary blossoms into something quite extraordinary in our Elementary Program. Topics are introduced
and then connected to the larger curriculum as a whole in an integrated approach. Our qualified teachers encourage the pursuit of knowledge with guided support. Our spacious and intellectually rigorous classrooms create environments in which inquiry-based learning and dynamic social experiences are celebrated. The students learn a rich Montessori curriculum with studies in language, mathematics, geometry, geography, history, botany, and zoology. The warm spirit of our school community is reflected every day at Bannockburn. Our tagline— Cultivating Curiosity, Nurturing Potential, and Empowering Independence—represents the core of our Toddler to Grade 6 program, an integrated curriculum that builds in intentional academic,
social, and developmental growth. Cultivating curiosity is a cornerstone of Montessori learning and it begins by creating a caring and supportive environment with the freedom to explore. We encourage all of our students to ask questions and make connections. Nurturing potential happens through our enriched curriculum that exceeds provincial standards and promotes a love of learning. Finally, empowering independence occurs with the growth of a sense of purpose in ourselves, our classrooms, and our world. The foundation that begins in Toddler leads to independent, self-confident, critical thinkers in our Grade 6 Grads and proud Bannockburn alumni. We invite you to learn more by visiting bannockburn.ca
THE POWER OF PLACE-BASED LEARNING AT Kingsway College School
At Kingsway College School (KCS), right from Junior Kindergarten, learning doesn’t stay in the classroom. From their very first days, students at KCS engage in project-based learning that fosters collaboration, creativity, and curiosity. As students’ progress through the grades, this evolves into a more personalized approach, where placebased learning becomes integral to how they explore the world, discover their strengths, and apply their knowledge.
What sets KCS apart from other CAIS schools is our unwavering commitment to experiential education that is deeply rooted in the real world. We connect students with
meaningful, hands-on experiences that nurture academic achievement and personal growth.
In the early years, students might work together on interdisciplinary projects, developing foundational skills while making connections between subjects. By the time they reach the Senior School, these learning experiences expand beyond the school’s walls and into the broader community. Whether it’s conducting science experiments at the Museum of Illusions, learning about history at the Toronto Archives, or rowing with the Argonaut Rowing Club, KCS students engage with their city as an extension of their classroom.
In September, students in Grades 7 to 12 participate in a multi-day outdoor education experience at Onondaga Camp. Set in Ontario’s wilderness, Onondaga provides the ideal setting for students to step outside their comfort zones, explore new challenges, and build lasting connections. Through canoeing, hiking, rock climbing, shelter building, and team initiatives on high ropes courses, students develop leadership, resilience, and confidence all while having fun.
Experiences like these are more than just memorable moments; they are vital components of a KCS education. Place-based learning teaches students how to navigate
complexity, work as part of a team, and become self-directed learners. It equips them with the life skills needed for success in school and beyond. KCS is proud to offer a holistic education that balances academic excellence with social-emotional learning, wellness, and leadership. By connecting curriculum to real-life experiences, we prepare students not just to thrive in the world – but to improve it.
At Kingsway College School, learning doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s personal, purposeful, and connected to the places and people that shape our students. That’s the power of place-based learning – and that’s what sets KCS apart.
La Citadelle International Academy of Arts & Science
DEDICATED
At La Citadelle, education is not transactional, it is transformational. We guide every student on a journey that extends far beyond curriculum and content, shaping the skills, character, and confidence they need to thrive in life.
From our earliest years in Daycare, Kindergarten, and Elementary, we build the foundation for excellence. Students develop critical learning habits, communication skills, and the discipline to take pride in their work. In a safe, harmonious, and supportive environment, we teach right from wrong, model respect, and encourage kindness and compassion, because education is as much about who you become as it is about what you know.
Academically advanced, distinctly bilingual
Unlike immersion programs, La Citadelle teaches both French and English as first languages to all students. This is not simply exposure
TO EXCELLENCE IN BILINGUAL EDUCATION
to a second language; it is mastery of two of the world’s most influential languages at the highest academic level. By Grade 3, students also begin studying a third language (Mandarin or Spanish) expanding their global perspective and competitiveness. Our graduates leave us not only academically prepared for the world’s top universities but also culturally fluent and adaptable in an increasingly interconnected world.
A curriculum designed for excellence
We are the only school in the region with specialized subject teachers for every grade, from Grade 1 through Grade 12, ensuring that every subject is taught by an expert passionate about their discipline. All students in Grades 6 to 10 follow the rigorous IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), a globally recognized framework that encourages inquiry, critical thinking, and real-world connections. In the upper grades, our Advanced
Placement (AP) Programme allows students to pursue university-level coursework, preparing them for academic excellence beyond high school.
Our commitment is not just to prepare students for university, but to prepare them for life. We foster problem-solving, critical thinking, leadership, and creativity alongside academic mastery, ensuring students thrive in every aspect of their personal and intellectual growth.
A community where every child belongs
La Citadelle is proudly multicultural, welcoming families from diverse ethnic backgrounds, including those who are not Francophone. All children, regardless of their starting point, benefit from the high level of education we provide. Our community celebrates multiculturalism, fostering mutual respect and understanding among students from many cultures.
Exceptional value in education
We believe every child deserves access to an outstanding education. While our program rivals the most prestigious private schools, we remain one of the most affordable options for the calibre of education we deliver. Parents choose La Citadelle because academic rigor is balanced with compassion, discipline is paired with encouragement, and success is measured by the growth of both mind and character.
From foundations to futures
At La Citadelle, the journey from curiosity to confidence is shared. Together, we prepare students to excel academically, lead with integrity, and contribute meaningfully to the world with grace, kindness, compassion, and intelligence. Come visit us and discover firsthand our holistic and academically advanced approach to education.
LEARNERS TODAY, LEADERS TOMORROW Northmount School
Northmount School is a Catholic independent boys preparatory school (JK – 8). Its supportive environment helps boys achieve their greatest potential, emphasizing academic excellence, character development, values and service, which lead to a meaningful, balanced and fulfilling life.
Northmount School provides a sound, stimulating and coherent education to prepare boys in their development as responsible citizens. The school helps each student to reach his full potential, develop critical thinking skills, self-discipline, a respect for others, and a strong moral character. We recognize that the parents are the boys’ first teachers and thus we enter into a partnership
between parents, students and the school to establish a rich and vibrant community life.
We deeply respect and are guided by our tradition, its spirituality, appeal to the common good, and its values. We are multi-cultural and our students come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Our Catholic roots encourage a belief in the dignity of every person and a respect for a variety of faith traditions.
Our boys learn to support one another in a nurturing environment; one that is made possible by our superior and highly committed staff who are dedicated to implementing Northmount’s goals. The world’s next generation will need leadership from responsible individuals who
are morally sound and whose values speak to the Truth. For boys who aspire to have character when men, the journey begins at Northmount.
Our school community finds its foundations in the teaching of the Catholic Church. Families of all faiths, however, are welcome, as we see our school as a microcosm of society. We teach from a Catholic perspective and this informs how we teach, understand right from wrong, and guide our boys to manhood.
The family plays an important role in Northmount’s vision for education. As the primary educators in their children’s lives, parents are active in the academic, co-curricular and faith development of their boys and in
helping them to develop character. The school seeks out opportunities to engage with the family to round out the experiences in a young boy’s life. Our academic program is one of which our school community is extremely proud, and our dedicated teachers ascribe to pedagogy that focuses on the needs of boys using contemporary tools. As a single-sex school and with significant research to back this focus, Northmount ensures that boys develop the necessary academic skills to find success in high school and beyond.
We would love to have the opportunity to host your family for a visit. Please book a tour and find out more about how Northmount could be the right school for your son.
The Sterling Hall School
WHERE BOYS BELONG
The Sterling Hall School understands how boys learn best. The school’s focus on learning, character and community ensures that all boys feel a sense of belonging, develop strong character strengths and take pride in their academic learning.
Specializing in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 boys’ education enables Sterling Hall to deliver innovative academic practices and boyfocused programming that foster individual growth, curiosity and a passion for learning. Providing a challenging, leading-edge curriculum complemented by dynamic programs taught by highly dedicated faculty ensures that our boys are engaged in their learning. In the primary years, foundational literacy skills
are developed to set the stage for lifelong learning, while a deep understanding and appreciation for math is established using Singapore Math’s Dimensions program. This strengthens critical thinking and problem-solving capacity, building the skills necessary to integrate coding and robotics in math and science. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, every boy benefits from personalized attention tailored to his unique strengths and needs.
Sterling Hall teachers are experts in relational learning and serve as inspiring mentors to the boys as they explore their interests, build character strengths and develop leadership skills during these formative years. This environment promotes a sense
of belonging and fortifies boys with courage and confidence. In turn, this encourages them to take personal risks, both inside and outside the classroom, enabling them to extend themselves and flourish as they realize their untapped potential.
The school places a strong emphasis on nurturing the whole boy, academically, socially and emotionally. Leadership opportunities are woven into the program from JK through Grade 8, along with clubs, athletics and experiential trips, helping students build confidence and character from an early age. A robust wellness program further supports the well-being of the boys, ensuring that social-emotional development and a genuine sense
of belonging are inherent aspects of daily school life.
Sterling Hall’s culture is warm and welcoming, with a strong community that enriches the experience of every SHS boy. The small school environment helps to foster relationships, both between boys and teachers, as well as among the boys themselves. It leverages this advantage to adapt and innovate with dexterity and responsiveness. At the same time, it continues to provide relational attention and prioritize each boy’s well-being and growth throughout every stage of his foundational years. Together, these shared values of learning, character and community form the foundation of all Sterling Hall does, making it the school where boys truly belong.
Where boys belong is where boys excel.
Join us at The Sterling Hall School, where belonging is everything, confidence and character flourish, and boys thrive academically.
The Study Academy
UNLEASHING POTENTIAL: HOW THE STUDY ACADEMY EMPOWERS THE TWICE-EXCEPTIONAL LEARNER
In the landscape of education, there exists a unique and often misunderstood student: the twiceexceptional (2e) learner. These bright, intellectually curious individuals possess remarkable gifts and talents, yet are often challenged by the complexities of learning differences such as ADHD, SLD, or autism spectrum disorder. For too long, traditional educational settings have struggled to adequately support these students, often failing to address either their exceptional abilities or their specific challenges. This is precisely where The Study Academy distinguishes itself, standing as a beacon for 2e learners in Toronto and beyond.
The Study Academy was founded on the profound understanding that 2e students are not simply “gifted with a learning disability” or “struggling despite their intelligence.” They are, rather, individuals whose strengths and challenges are intricately interwoven, creating a distinct learning profile that demands a specialized approach. At The Study Academy, the focus is not on remediation in isolation, nor solely on enrichment, but on a holistic, integrated strategy that nurtures every facet of the 2e student.
What sets The Study Academy apart is its unwavering commitment to individualized learning. With an impressive student-to-teacher ratio, each student receives the personalized attention crucial for their success. This isn’t just about smaller class sizes; it’s about a deeply personalized curriculum meticulously crafted to identify and build upon each student’s unique strengths,
while simultaneously developing strategies to address their areas of need. Every student at The Study Academy benefits from a tailored Learning Plan, outlining their specific learning profile, accessibility needs, and strategies for academic and personal growth.
The curriculum itself is designed to engage the curious and divergent minds of 2e learners. Built upon Ministry of Education guidelines, inquiry-based learning and collaborative projects encourage students to delve deep into subjects they are passionate about, fostering critical thinking and creative problemsolving. Beyond core academics, a rich array of elective courses, from digital creations to outdoor skills and literary adventures, provides avenues
for students to explore their diverse interests and discover new talents. This comprehensive approach ensures that giftedness is not stifled but celebrated and channelled productively.
Crucially, The Study Academy understands that academic success for 2e learners is inextricably linked to their social and emotional wellbeing. The school cultivates a warm, collegial, and inclusive environment where students feel supported and empowered to take academic risks. Opportunities for friendship and social engagement are abundant, fostering a sense of belonging that is vital for students who may have felt out of place in other settings. Through student council, house systems, and extracurricular activities, students
develop leadership skills, build relationships, and gain confidence in who they are as learners and individuals.
Ultimately, The Study Academy is more than just a school; it’s a community dedicated to empowering twice-exceptional learners to realize their full potential. By embracing their unique learning profiles, providing tailored support, and fostering an environment where both strengths and challenges are understood and addressed, The Study Academy helps 2e students not just succeed, but truly thrive. For parents seeking an educational home where their bright, complex child will be genuinely seen, understood, and championed, The Study Academy offers an unparalleled solution.
CELEBRATING LEARNING,
ONE STUDENT AT A TIME
The Study Academy is a proudly small co-educational school for students in grades 3-12
Our Mission is to build and continuously develop a learner-centred community that fosters a culture of engagement and creativity through inclusive and innovative teaching
Guiding Philosophies
n Learning is a social activity informed by our emotions and motivations
n The student is the central participant in the classroom and school
n A learning environment is responsive to the individual differences between students, including their prior knowledge, experiences, skills, ideas, and attitudes
n Learning demands a disciplined investment of students’ intelligence
n Virtuous cycles of learning arise when schools participate in research that informs teaching and when teaching practice informs research directions
We host individual visits and tours for prospective students. Schedule your visit today!
A UNIQUE, CHALLENGING EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE THAT ENCOURAGES WONDER AND FOSTERS INSPIRATION Toronto Waldorf School
Toronto Waldorf School is the leader in holistic education. Our focus on child development (“The right thing at the right time”) and our arts-infused curriculum distinguish us from traditional schools. Waldorf students are responsible, confident, life-long learners, who can problemsolve, think creatively, and serve their communities.
One of the defining strengths of the Waldorf curriculum lies in its integration of art and academics. At TWS, we seamlessly incorporate academic learning into everyday life, fostering connections between abstract concepts and their practical applications. Central to Waldorf philosophy is the belief in holistic education, where students are not only intellectually challenged but also encouraged to cultivate their intrinsic curiosity and creativity. Our diverse performance arts programs, ranging from music and eurythmy to fencing and circus arts, further enrich the learning experience. At TWS, students are inspired by a broad spectrum of classes that ignite their passion and creativity in ways that are truly transformative.
Toronto Waldorf School is set on 18 acres of picturesque land, encompassing fields, forests, and a ravine. We strongly encourage outdoor play in all seasons, with students engaging in activities outside even in the rain or snow. Except in extreme weather conditions, TWS promotes outdoor exploration, particularly for children in Kindergarten and Lower School. As the seasons change, students not only enjoy outdoor play but also engage with the scientific principles
behind these seasonal shifts in their everyday learning.
The diverse range of subjects offered in both Lower School and High School provides students with a well-rounded education throughout the year. In addition to academic pursuits, TWS integrates cultural festivals and histories into the curriculum, with a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusivity at the core of our values.
Students at TWS spend a significant amount of time outdoors, and parents should anticipate
that outdoor play will occur daily, regardless of weather conditions, including rain and snow. TWS is a non-denominational institution; however, we celebrate a diverse range of festivals and holidays throughout the year, reflecting various cultural traditions. The school adheres to the guidelines set by York Region Public Health, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, masks were worn in compliance with regulatory requirements. Our school is deeply committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and equality, ensuring that
all students are treated with respect for their gender and sexual identities. TWS is praised for our caring teachers, hands-on learning, sense of community, and thriving social students. Our holistic approach to learning is appreciated by many families and students enjoy the wide range of classes throughout the school year. TWS has an impressive 98% post-secondary acceptance rate for Grade 12 graduates.
Take a tour, see the school, feel the difference. Experience Toronto Waldorf School.
NURTURING EXCELLENCE IN KING CITY, ONTARIO Discover Villanova College
Nestled in the serene landscape of King City, Ontario, Villanova College stands as a beacon of academic excellence and holistic development. For 25 years, Villanova College has been dedicated to shaping young minds into future leaders, fostering a community where academic achievement, spiritual growth, and personal well-being converge harmoniously.
Academic excellence
At Villanova College, the pursuit of academic excellence is paramount. The curriculum is carefully crafted to challenge students intellectually while preparing them for the rigours of higher education and beyond. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, allowing educators to nurture each student’s unique talents and strengths. From the latest in STEM education to humanities and
arts, every discipline is taught with a focus on critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness.
Holistic Development
Beyond academics, Villanova College places a strong emphasis on holistic development. Students are encouraged to explore their passions through a wide array of extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and community service. These opportunities not only enrich their educational experience but also instill values of teamwork, leadership, and social responsibility.
Faith-based education
Rooted in Catholic values, Villanova College fosters a supportive environment where faith and spirituality are integral parts of daily life. Students are encouraged to explore and deepen their spiritual
journey through retreats, prayer services, and volunteerism. This inclusive approach promotes a sense of belonging and moral integrity among students.
State-of-the-art facilities
The campus at Villanova College is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to enhance learning and personal growth. Modern classrooms, science laboratories, a performing arts centre, and extensive athletic facilities provide students with the resources they need to excel in their chosen pursuits.
Student success
Join the Villanova community
Whether you’re considering Villanova College for your child’s education or seeking a nurturing environment that values academic rigour, spiritual growth, and personal development, Villanova College invites you to become part of its rich tradition of excellence. Discover why families from King City and beyond choose Villanova College as their partner in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
The success of Villanova College graduates speaks volumes about the quality of education and support they receive. Alumni go on to excel in top universities and colleges globally, equipped with the skills, knowledge, and values to make a positive impact in their chosen fields.
To learn more about admissions, programs, and campus life at Villanova College, visit villanovacollege.ca or join us at one of our fall open houses to experience firsthand what makes Villanova College a premier choice in education. Experience the difference at Villanova College – where every student is empowered to reach their full potential.
WHAT PROGRESS LOOKS LIKE Havergal College
Havergal College is a leading independent school for girls (Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12) in Toronto, dedicated to excellence in education, character development and community engagement. With a focus on empowering students to lead lives of purpose and impact, the school combines tradition with innovation to prepare its students to make a positive difference in a rapidly changing world.
Situated on a beautiful 22-acre campus, Havergal offers a distinctive educational journey shaped by a commitment to innovation, wellbeing and community. The school’s enriched Liberal Arts programs are thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity and inspire a lifelong love of learning. Within a stimulating and supportive environment, students are encouraged to explore their interests,
develop their voice and take initiative – both in and out of the classroom.
With extensive co-curricular, athletic, performing arts and leadership opportunities available at every grade level, Havergal nurtures confident, compassionate individuals grounded in the school’s core values of Integrity, Inquiry, Compassion and Courage.
The Junior School welcomes young learners from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 by offering a nurturing and inclusive community that supports students at every age and stage of their educational journey. Our liberal arts curriculum fosters a mindset of inquiry and equips students with a toolkit for both academic success and overall wellbeing.
Middle School represents an exciting and special period of transition. The program celebrates
the emerging independent spirit of students in Grades 7 and 8. Our supportive and encouraging faculty and staff create opportunities for learners to try new things, navigate setbacks and celebrate success.
They experience a diverse academic program taught by specialist teachers in classrooms, laboratories and gymnasiums, as well as music, art and drama studios and the outdoors. Dedicated instructional time is woven into the program for the development of learning and organizational skills.
In the Senior School, students assume increasing responsibility for the decisions that shape their future. They are guided, mentored and inspired by experienced faculty and staff who ensure that all students thrive at Havergal. Mentoring relationships help Senior School
students expand their network and connect to opportunities close to home and across the globe.
Post-secondary planning plays an integral part of our Senior School program, through our Guidance and Teacher Advisor programs. Havergal students graduate as informed and responsive global citizens, ready to take the next step whether that is studying at a university in Canada or abroad or taking a path less travelled.
Clanmore Montessori School provides a top-quality, authentic Montessori program in an intellectually, socially and aesthetically rich and stimulating environment. Our highly qualified and caring staff support and nurture each child’s self-esteem, selfconfidence and independence, while unlocking individual potential and encouraging academic, social and emotional growth. Housed in a restored historic farmhouse with a custom-designed addition, Clanmore seamlessly connects its indoor and outdoor environments, using the school’s location near Joshua’s Creek Conservation Area
and Lake Ontario. Bordering the City of Mississauga, Clanmore offers a full spectrum Montessori Program from Toddler through to Middle School. Clanmore is
visit us in person and experience the uniqueness of Clanmore. While you’re here, tour the
school, have your questions answered, and explore what a Montessori education at Clanmore can offer your child. Our next Open House is October 25, 2025. Register today at: clanmore.ca
CCMA accredited and a member of Oakville Independent Schools. Come
Founded in 1968, Dearcroft is Oakville’s original Montessori school offering programs from toddler through junior high, now with three campuses in Oakville delivering exceptional Montessori programs. Their Trafalgar Crossing campus, located in north Oakville,
offers a state-of-the-art space surrounded by natural outdoor green space, with spacious classrooms spread over 10,000 square-feet. Their Rebecca satellite campus offers a comprehensive and enriching educational experience rooted in the Montessori
philosophy. Dearcroft is a fully accredited charter member of CCMA (Canadian Council of Montessori Administrators) and O.I.S. (Oakville Independent Schools). With a low student to teacher ratio, their staff enjoy ideal conditions for helping their
students achieve their personal and academic goals. In close cooperation, all members of their school community recognize the strength of an outstanding team and are appreciative of the opportunity to work together in such a creative and exciting learning environment.
Dunblaine School
UNLEASH POSSIBLITIES
Dunblaine School is a not-for-profit, independent school in midtown Toronto, dedicated exclusively to supporting students with diagnosed learning disabilities. Our mission is to create a learning environment where differences are understood, strengths are celebrated, and challenges are addressed with skill, compassion, and evidence-based strategies.
We understand that students with learning disabilities require a different approach to achieve success. That’s why we use benchmark assessments, progress monitoring, and research-backed instructional methods to pinpoint each student’s needs, track their progress, and adjust instruction in real time. Every child receives a personalized learning plan
designed to build academic skills while also fostering confidence and independence.
Our small class sizes ensure that each student benefits from one-onone attention, targeted interventions, and consistent feedback.
Specialized instruction is supported by professional services such as occupational therapy, speechlanguage therapy, and academic coaching, creating a complete network of support that addresses academic, social, and emotional development.
We recognize that learning disabilities often affect more than classroom performance they can influence self-esteem, peer relationships, and motivation. At
Dunblaine, we work to strengthen not only literacy and numeracy skills, but also resilience, problem-solving abilities, and self-advocacy. Students are encouraged to take risks in a safe and understanding environment where mistakes are seen as essential steps in learning.
From our Apple technologyintegrated classrooms and Maker Space to structured social skills programming, every aspect of Dunblaine is designed to meet
the needs of students who learn differently. Our dedicated staff, many with expertise in special education, understand how to unlock potential where others may have seen limits. If your child has a learning disability and thrives in an environment that adapts to their unique needs, Dunblaine School is here to guide their journey. Together, we can help them achieve academic growth, personal confidence, and a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.
J. Addison School
NURTURING TOMORROW’S THINKERS
Since 2002, J. Addison School has been more than just a private school in Toronto – it’s been a close-knit, values-driven learning community for students from kindergarten to Grade 12. Located in Markham, our day and boarding school offers a nurturing and structured environment where students grow with confidence, discipline, and purpose. Our community is full of families who value teamwork, strong habits, and civic responsibility. Together, we empower young minds to thrive and positively impact society.
Whether you’re seeking a local K-12 day school or an on-campus boarding option for Grades 7 to 12, J. Addison provides a well-rounded academic experience enriched by
Our Focus For Success™ program offers students the opportunity to explore interests beyond the classroom, from science and language clubs to
competitive sports. Small class sizes and individualized learning plans allow students to excel at their own pace –some even taking courses above grade level. With growing partnerships with top Canadian universities, such as York University, Wilfrid Laurier University, and Toronto Metropolitan University, our students are well-prepared for life beyond graduation.
As part of our mission to make private education more accessible, we’re proud to offer several scholarship programs, including our Tomorrow’s Thinkers Scholarship, which provides up to full tuition for local elementary students. Visit jaddisonschool.com to learn more and discover how we’re nurturing tomorrow’s thinkers – today.
The Bishop Strachan School
LEARN MORE. ABOUT EVERYTHING
The Bishop Strachan School is a leading independent Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 day and Boarding school for girls. Through our challenging inquiry based program, we not only equip our students with core academic knowledge and skills, we empower them to become capable, confident changemakers. For more than 150 years, BSS has inspired girls to be fearless and educated them to be leaders. With opportunities to ask bold questions and solve real-world problems, our students become curious, resilient learners. They learn to speak for themselves and lead others. And they grow into compassionate and ethical citizens. We call this the Signature of a BSS Girl.
At BSS, learning is driven by inquiry. Our students investigate,
experiment, research and reflect. They apply concepts to gain deep understandings of issues that are relevant to them. We use teaching strategies grounded in the latest educational research, weaving inquiry with direct instruction, discussion, project work and experiential education.
In the Junior School (Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6), students engage in meaningful investigations and projects that build a strong foundation in mathematics, literacy and research.
In Grades 7 and 8, students tackle more complex problems with a global lens, and deepen their critical thinking skills. Embracing the growth and challenges of early adolescence, they encounter new perspectives and are empowered to take risks.
In Grades 9 to 12, we offer rigorous learning experiences in more than 100 credit courses. Advanced Placement courses provide an even deeper academic challenge with university-level material and opportunities to conduct original research. Students gain valuable transferable skills –like writing, time management and communication – no matter which post-secondary path they take. BSS graduates are well-prepared for post-secondary education with excellent critical thinking, analytical and research skills.
At BSS, learning happens everywhere. Through a rich cocurricular program that includes arts, athletics, global learning, outdoor education and volunteer service, students explore their interests.
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Students develop their leadership skills and style in a purposeful and impactful way through formal training, collaboration and structured feedback. Our 7.5-acre campus includes STEAM-focused learning spaces; arts, design technology, multimedia and film labs; and a turf field – the first in Ontario at a girls’ school. With an emphasis on spaces that foster connectedness, belonging and accessibility, BSS is a unique intersection of old and new - from the stained glass and leaded windows of our 110-year old building, to the open-concept classrooms designed to spark curiosity and collaboration in our STEAM wing.
With more than $2 million available in financial assistance, we ensure that more students discover themselves at BSS.
