ParentTalk Forums / ParentTalk / Everything But The Kitchen Sink!

Changing the Canadian National Anthem

susanc — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 06:31:58 GMT

Sooooo, now they want to change our anthem to be more gender neutral. They want to change the line "in all thy sons command" to "thou dost in us command". I think some poeple have too much time on their hands or maybe I'm crazy. Do you think this is a good idea? I'm not on the bandwagon to change it.

exciting new treaments and best products

beauty2010 — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 09:29:10 GMT

i have a website especially for woman im a beauty therapist tanning tech and nail tech check out my site and see all tips and tricks from home made products to the real best skin care products that are far cheaper then we think also other info on problems etc .

theres a tab on my site for everyone to ask me any question with regards to beauty or skin care and i promise to answer in full detail for free in 24 hours or less .i list ingredients and products best suited to the skin problems etc and i even add them to my online store so you can easily purchase them .

hope you enjoy it as much as everyone else does

http://www.beautysecrets2010.blogspot.com

Saving Money!!

melanie30 — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 11:36:54 GMT

I'm ALWAYS on the hunt for deals, bargains, sales....anything to save on the mountain of expenses (that are, of course, worth every penny for my little guy! )

Anyone else pick up on the giveaway Sears did over the weekend? They were just handing out cards for $10, $20 or $200! I went to get one and ended up getting one of the $200 cards so I immediately went to the kids section and stocked up!

They told me they'll be doing it again soon so I'm keeping my eyes on the Sears Canada website for updates. Cant beat free!

I'm in Toronto. If anyone knows of good places I can go to that'll have something for a 3yo post up the info!

Win a Bottle Gift Set from Dr. Brown's!

Moderator — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 15:44:31 GMT

ParentsCanada wants to know about your first holiday memory! Share a story about the first holiday you can remember, or your child's first holiday experience.

Share your memories here for a chance to win this amazing gift set!

Package includes:

Infant Gift Set: This include four 8oz bottles, two 4oz bottles, six Level-One Nipples, two Level-Two Nipples, two Level-Four nipples, two Storage/Travel Caps and three Cleaning Brushes ($29.99 value)

Microwave Steam Sterilizer: Sterilizes up to 4 Dr. Brown’s baby bottles and all of their components ($32.99 value)

Bottle Brush ($4.49 value)

Dr. Brown’s Insulated Bottle Tote ($14.99 value)

Win a Complete Air™ Convertible Car Seat

Moderator — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:46:54 GMT

Hey Parents,

This month we're giving away a Safety 1st® Complete Air™ Convertible Car Seat with Air Protect™ Side Impact Technology. This is the first car seat to provide unparalleled protection against the biggest threat to children on the road today - side impact crashes. Through the precise release of air, Air Protect™ shields children from side impact intrusion and immediately reduces crash forces where the child is most vulnerable – the head. A superior testing method combined with a strict focus on head containment make Air Protect™ not only a state-of-the-art technology, but a revolution in child safety. To learn more, go to:

http://airprotect.safety1st.com

For your chance to win, simply reply to this thread, sharing with us one (or more!) of the ways you teach your children about car and road safety.

Thanks for participating, and good luck to everyone!

blogger

inkscrblr — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 21:02:30 GMT

Come visit me over at http://www.thriftymommastips.blogspot.com/ for news, ideas, tips, tricks, musings and freebies. Wow!

DIY Hallowe'en!

Moderator — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:00:37 GMT

Hey Parents,

All Hallow's Eve is coming up fast... let's start sharing some tips and tricks to help get through this spookiest of nights!

I'll be posting later about some of my favourite Do-It-Yourself costumes and decorations... and I'd love to hear from all of you. How do you make Hallowe'en special for your family?

Chrisco Hampers - know anything about it?

cherylmomof2 — Tue, 27 Feb 2007 14:00:06 GMT

I'm just wondering if any of you ladies have any experiences with Chrisco Hampers.

http://www.chriscohampers.ca/shop/home.aspx

Apparently if you become a seller you make 10% commission on every order, including any of your own orders.

I like the idea of it and the hampers are brand name, yummy products that we use every day.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Are used cribs safe?

icegirl — Mon, 07 Aug 2006 13:47:19 GMT

Hello, I was just curious how many ladies have bought used cribs and how you tell if they are safe or not? I had a woman at work offer me a crib and change table for $250.00 but when I heard of other cribs for sale at $70.00 I kind of wondered what to look for in a used crib?

Any input would help...as we aren't due for another 5.5mths.

THanks, Erika

ParentTalk CONTEST!

Moderator — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:39:31 GMT

Hi parents!

There's a new contest for February and you can enter right here!

Tell us what your plans are for your children's upcoming March Break. Will you be taking time off work to spend with them? Maybe sending them to a fun camp, or to stay with relatives? Or perhaps they're old enough to stay at home? We'd love to hear from you - so post your answer here for a chance to win!

This month you could win Volume One of the Eloise Collection, or the first two books from the James Adventure Series!

Best of luck to everyone!

The Globe and Mail - sexting

zosia — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 16:26:20 GMT

Hello,

I'm a reporter with The Globe and Mail working on a story about sexting: the U.S. has seen a rash of sexting cases in the past month; a 15-year-old girl in Pennsylvania was even charged with child porn for sexting last week. And this week a school board is convening to discuss sexting and cellphone rules.

I realize many parents on this site have children too young to be operating cell phones, but I'm looking for comment from Canadian parents of teens on this apparent trend.

Is the concern overblown or valid? What have your kids told you about it, if anything?

My deadline is Wednesday March 4th, at 11 a.m. EST and I'd need five minutes via phone.

I look forward to speaking!

Zosia

Zosia Bielski // Globe Life // 444 Front Street West
Toronto, Ontario // M5V 2S9 // 416.585.5337
zbielski@globeandmail.com // www.globeandmail.com

Anyone on Facebook?

cherylmomof2 — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 12:56:26 GMT

I was just wondering if anyone was on facebook.com

My name is Cheryl Bain if you want to add me onto your friends list.

Maternity Leave Increased?

Msoti — Wed, 13 Sep 2006 13:16:45 GMT

Hi! My cousin was telling my mom the other day that effective January 2007, maternity leave is increasing to 18 months? Has anyone heard this? I would love it if she's right! If you've heard anything can you please let me know? Thanks! =)

Robeez Sandle Sale Extended!

Moderator — Fri, 30 Jun 2006 11:35:28 GMT

Robeez Sandal Sale Extended!!!

Right now Robeez is having a Sandals Sale! Save 20% off the regular price of Robeez sandals until July 31, 2006.

Introduction of New Products
Robeez has always been known for one product, soft soled footwear. I'm excited to tell you that over the next few weeks and months, you will see even more unique and fashion-forward products being introduced by Robeez. While some may be available worldwide, others will be available to the North American market only.

Go to Robeeze and browse now: http://www.parentscanada.com/271/Shop.htm

Best Belly Contest

jacoboo — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 14:00:37 GMT

Ok peeps I need your help as we want to win ;-) Contest ends Jan 31

My wife has been entered into a best belly contest by our photographer for 2008 prego’s here is the link ……… please vote for her from here from home…….

http://www.photosmoutonblanc.com/g2/main.php?g2_itemId=1884

I'm number : ID-171

zm_di_id171.jpg

click on the stars to vote……..

Thanks a million

Formula Scoops

richardson3 — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 13:31:10 GMT

Hi all, I am looking for some really cool ideas on what to do with the formula scoops that come with the formula.

Your Childs Physical Activity Behavior

cbloomquist — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 16:24:46 GMT

Regular participation in physical activity helps children build healthy bones and muscles, develops skills, reduces depression and anxiety, builds confidence, and facilitates social interaction. Unfortunately, many children may not be physically active enough to achieve these benefits.

Mothers of preschool children please tell me why your child does or does not participate in physical activity programs. Please complete two short on-line surveys about your thoughts related to your preschool child's physical activity.

The first survey can be completed right now at the following website: https://survey.usask.ca/survey.php?sid=8687

A link to the second survey will be sent to you in a few days. Both surveys are very short and will not take long to complete.

If you are a mother that is at least 18 years of age, with a child between 2 and 5 years of age I would like to invite you to participate in the first survey right now.

https://survey.usask.ca/survey.php?sid=8687

Please go to the link and participate soon! Just type the web address in your web browser and complete the survey. It is very quick and easy.

This survey has been approved by the Behavioural Ethics Board of the University of Saskatchewan. If you have any questions or comments about the survey please contact me. My email address is cdb485@mail.usask.ca.

Thank you kindly!

Candace

Roll Call

gr8blessings — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 14:58:06 GMT

I've been participating in the Family Planning Section of Canadian Bride. I'm done planning my family and would like to talk more about raising kids. I'd like to see these boards more active again and I'm wondering how many people lurk here and get scared off because the posts are years old. What can we do to get this place a nice spot to come for some friendly advice about raising our kids?

I think, if we post, they will come, so I'm going to do my best to get the party started and be the first on the dance floor. Anyone want to join me?

I have two daughters - DD1 is 29 months and DD2 is 8 months. My oldest daughter is "spirited" which is a lot of fun but also very challenging. My youngest is my little explorer, who likes to do things her way. We don't sleep. I average 4-6 hours a night so I hope I still sound intelligent in my zombie state. Topics that I'm particularly interested in: sleep, fun activities, sibling rivalry, vaccinations, nutrition and breastfeeding discrimination. In the summer, we like to explore in our RV and go for long walks in the stroller. I'm on mat leave now, but will be going back to work soon. It is going to be interesting since I've been off since my first was born.

OK, I'm a really lousy dancer, so I'd love some company. Just post to say hi, so I know I'm not talking to cyberspace.

gr8blessings
PS my screen name comes from all the wonderful blessings I have in my life. It is my acknowledgment of these blessings in gratitude and doesn't mean I think I'm great.

Letter from Santa Claus for your children?

black_swan — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 21:26:49 GMT

Hi everybody,

Have you ever used one of the online sites where you can get a personalized Santa letter for your little angels?

I am thinking of doing it this year and I was curious if anybody here did this and what is the best place to go to. A not very expensive choice would be much preferred.

Did you get any nice reaction from the kids? I would like to try to put some messages there like to be good and clean the room maybe I get some advantages for my efforts

Thanks,
Nina

Christmas

cherylmomof2 — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 06:54:54 GMT

Just wondering if your family's have any special Christmas plans or traditions? With only 15 days (YIKES)....we've got some Christmas baking to do. Gingersnaps and Scotch Shortbreads (for my daughter's class). This year we've told family that we're staying home for Christmas morning and only going to hubby's parents and grandparents....they just live 2 mins down the road. We'll be spending the 20th at my Dad's doing Christmas, and then spending Boxing Day with my Mom and Stepdad. Since we're going to be home, we're going to have a special movie night on Christmas eve....finger foods, veggies and dip, chicken nuggets that sort of thing....eat while watching the movie...probably a Christmasy movie. Should be fun....we're looking forward to a simpler and more relaxing Christmas this year.

CBC The National - November 2008

online-editor — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 13:57:59 GMT

The National is looking to do a story on one of the biggest
challenges parents face in these tough economic times: learning how to
say no to their children. The National's producers are looking for families who need some help saying no. Via the show, these families will be in touch with a parenting expert, and help them find ways to curb their spending, while keeping their children happy.

Are you a parent who would like to share your story with CBC and participate in this project? If so, please get in touch with me @ lisah@parentscanada.com right away and I'll put you in touch with the show producers.

interview subjects wanted

inkscrblr — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 17:24:11 GMT

Hi. I am a journalist working on a column about fear of water. I need a few subjects to interview and wonder if any of you might have had trouble getting your child to like baths, swimming etc..?

If so can you contact me by replying here to Paula or email me at: inkscrblr@rogers.com

Also wondering if you found any creative solutions to the problem..

TIA.

Making a family budget

Jodi77 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:10:16 GMT

I need to organize my finances and make a workable budget to take care of my family, especially at this critical time trying to live off Mat Leave money, and have no idea where to start and how to make a practical one that covers all the bases, including savings! I'm not very good at this money stuff. Does anyone know a website, person or organization that could help?

Mama Cards & Midwives

online-editor — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 10:12:23 GMT

New blog post

http://blog.parentscanada.com/my_weblog/2008/11/mama-cards-and.html

Waving Hello

neversurrender — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 13:49:46 GMT

Hello Parent's Canada

I am a new user on this site. I look forward to getting to know you all.

I have 4 kids ages 11 to 3.

Talk to ya soon.

Off now to cruise this site

Halloween

cherylmomof2 — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 07:24:06 GMT

What are your plans for Halloween? How are your little spooks n ghosts dressing up this year?

Our plan is grabbing a quick dinner, dress our kids in their costumes (our son is going as Grampa, hubby's Dad is a contractor. And our daughter is going as a princess...go figure...lol). Since we live in the country we just drive to my inlaws, and the neighbours house.....then we head into town, go to the gas station, the restaurant, the hardware store, and a few houses of friends and family.

My son and I go to Early Years, so we're doing the Halloween thing there on the 28th, and my daughter is in school so I believe they're doing an afternoon party type thing.

THANK GOODNESS its on a Friday night! If they are a while going to bed, at least they can sleep in a bit!

Terrific Tuesday ~ Getting to Know You Q&A

online-editor — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 08:34:41 GMT

Here's a fun idea for weekly questions where we can use some creativity and get to know one another better. It will be harder for me cuz I'm not anonymous here but I'll answer as honestly as possible!

1. How many siblings do you have? Would you ideally like to have more or less?

2. What's your all-time favourite girl's and boy's name?

3. What's your favourite city in Canada?

4. If you could go on any holiday for any length of time, where would it be? Would you bring your kids?

5. Are you afraid of dogs?

Putting the 'fun' back in fundraising?

online-editor — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 10:24:42 GMT

New blog post. Those of you with school-aged children (or those who go to volunteer-run activities) will surely get this!

http://blog.parentscanada.com/my_weblog/2008/10/putting-the-fun.html

Little girls too sexy

kbridson — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 11:51:05 GMT

I'm a producer at TVO and we wanted parents to know about the show we're doing on the sexualization of girlhood. Check it out at www.tvoparents.com/yourvoice
Don't you think there's a problem with little girls wearing g-string undies and Paris Hilton being a role model for girls today?

Request for Participants - Study on Involved Fathers

dadstudy — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 21:02:05 GMT

Do you consider yourself an involved father?
Would you describe your partner in this way?

I am currently seeking volunteers to participate on a study on involved fathers being conducted as part of my dissertation research through the Department of Sociology at the University of Toronto.

The goal of this project is to explore whether and how fathers consider and respond to ideas about gender through their parenting. To do so, I am recruiting fathers who live in the GTA and have at least one child and understand and/or describe themselves as being an involved parent – what that means is up to you.

This research will involve an interview of approximately 60 minutes which will take place at a location of your convenience. During this time we will discuss fathers’ parenting practises and ideas about gender. You will have the opportunity to talk about what being an involved father means to you and your family.

In order to allow for a comparative analysis, I will also ask for information about age, family background, ethnic identity and occupational history. You are free to discontinue the interview at any time or to skip questions.

If you have questions about the study, please feel free to contact myself, or my supervisor, Professor Bonnie Fox. Due to the threat of spam, this information is available on the Sociology department website.

Thank you for considering participation in this study. I look forward to hearing from you if you are interested in participating in this study or receiving more information.

Yours Sincerely,
Judy Beglaubter
involvedfathers@gmail.com

FACULTY ADVISOR:
Bonnie Fox
Professor

seperated and pregnant

precious — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 13:00:11 GMT

My husband and i seperated in may (4months ago) I started seeing a new guy and enden up pregnant with a third child. My EX told me if i was to ever form any kind of relationship with my new man that he would never speek to me again. I know I shouldnt be worried but I am I am not sure how to tell him that I moved on or that iim pregnant. And to top it all of my new man doesnt want a baby. I am so scared and confused. I really need help if theres anyone out there please respond.

Single Moms

sapphiretehninja — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 17:39:00 GMT

Hi Everyone,

My name is Sapphire, and I'm 24 years old. I'm the proud mother of a 9 and a half old boy, Gabriel. I am however, a single mom.

My boyfriend and I broke up back in April. Our relationship wasn't going anywhere. We were always butting heads at everything, and it seemed like I was the only one doing anything to try to make things work with us. He has a drinking addiction, has no money management skills, and didn't made me feel appreciated. I was the only one taking care of our baby, 98% of the time. After attempting couple therapy/counseling, and him not showing up 4 out of 6 times; and after making my needs clear, and him not making any positive changes, I had to let him go.

It was very difficult to make that decision. I loved him, despite all the chaos and the issues. But I was really depressed that he just couldn't be responsible and loving like a boyfriend and father should be. I didn't want my son growing up around two parents who are always fighting, and crying. I also realized that, if I was going to be depressed because I was so unhappy with my relationship, that it could have a negative impact on my son's well being. So, with Gabriel's best intentions in mind and at heart, I told his father to leave. It was the hardest decision of my life, but I know in my heart, that I did the right choice.

Since the breakup, it has been a huge adjustment. I feeling a lot of mixed feelings about him. I missed him; then I hated him. I still felt something for him; I wished he could just disappear. I cried a lot. I was scared because I realized I was in this alone. Luckily, my family and friends have been of great support through everything, and helped me get myself on my feet. I moved to a new apartment, started to spend more time with them, and even made new friends with children.

As for Gabriel's father, he wants to be part of his life and still loves him. I'm having conflicted feelings about him. I can see that he cares for his son, but it only surfaced after the breakup. He spends good time with him on his visits, and plays with him and everything; but then I wonder what would he do with him if I wasn't around. I'm scared about the negative influence he could have on our son, with his drinking problem, and with his excessive swearing. I know that it's important for any child to have a father figure in his life. But if I don't approve of him, how can I decide what's right for him? He has rights and feelings too, and that's where I feel helpless.

I am seeing a psychologist who is helping with finding what's best for my son's interests. He's doing a great job so far. We discussed getting visitations on a legal schedule, and child support set by court. I'm seeing a lawyer to set up the court schedule in the near future. It's stressful, but at the same time, I feel like I'm moving on and doing the right thing.

So now, I have to focus on getting my college education done, and getting a good job to be able to provide for my son and I. Sometimes I wonder how I'm going to pull through, but inside I have faith. There are millions of single moms out there who are successful and who are doing just fine. I'm just scared that it'll be super hard. I love my baby, and I want to spend as much time as I can with him.

I was hoping to hear from other moms who are in my shoes. I'd like to know how you made it on your own, any advice or encouragements you might have for me.

Thanks!

Love,

Sapphire

Moms with Kids for focus Groups

leeannj — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 20:52:07 GMT

Looking for Moms with kids of all ages for focus groups in Toronto and the GTA on the subway line.

2 Hours, great compensation. All Fortune 500 Companies.

Please send contact info to leeann.jensen@sympatico.ca

Thanks for your interest!!

Civic Holiday Plans

online-editor — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 11:03:08 GMT

What are you doing for the long weekend? Anything exciting?

We'll be off to Ottawa for part of the time; looking forward to a change of pace. You?

Sharing rooms?

curiouserandcuriouser — Thu, 15 May 2008 09:26:48 GMT

Hey there! My boyfriend and I recently moved in to a 2 bedroom apartment. I have my 3 year old son full time and he is currently going through a custody battle over his 6 year old daughter, after which he hopes to have her every other week.

So my question is, can my 3 year old son and his 6 year old daughter share a bedroom? My son goes to bed around 8pm and his daughter will be going to bed around 9. Moving is not an option, so I was just wondering if anyone knows the age limit that children of the opposite sex can share rooms?

Late talker

fifi2 — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 14:54:34 GMT

Wondering if Moms of toddlers could please put my mind at ease... I've got a 23-month old who doesn't really talk yet. Is this a sign of a bigger challenge? I'm not really too concerned since my brother was a late bloomer too - but some people have commented.

Any suggestions?

Universal Child Care Benefits - payments resume!

online-editor — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 15:35:21 GMT

http://blog.parentscanada.com/my_weblog/2008/07/universal-child.html

Universal Child Care Plan Benefits - payments resume!

Not sure if I am or not...

BobbiJo — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 15:28:38 GMT

Hi, at this moment, I am not sure if I am pregnant with #2 or not. We have a gorgeous 3 year old daughter. I am not on the pill and we don't use anything for protection other than (not to be too candid) the withdrawal method. I've told hubby that it can still happen (I'd like it to be!) Reason I am unsure is that my period is always bang on 24 - 27 days; this time, 24 days, it seemed that it was here but I only bled very, very little (not enough to fill a tampon over two days) and that's it. That has never happened to me before; I've always had a period that lasts three to five days. I'm just wondering if anyone else has ever experienced a weird period or anything like that, who always has a normal period. I'm hoping that I am but here I go again - getting nervous to buy a test cause if I'm not, I'll be heartbroken and if I am, well, overjoyed! It just doesn't feel like I am. The symptoms I had with #1 were fatigue, soreness; I'm also wondering if all pregnancies would be the same. Any advice is appreciated!

Pushy grandparents

fifi2 — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 14:48:49 GMT

My Mom is a very keen grandparent but I often find that I can't get her to get the hint that we need time to ourselves as a new little family. She's made comments about our newborn being "her baby too." It's kinda making me crazy but I don't want to hurt her feelings. Any advice on how to draw some boundaries - nicely?

Thanks!

Mompreneurs - first in series up on blog!

online-editor — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 09:51:13 GMT

Wanna know more about mompreneurs or mizzards? Check out today's blog post. Thanks to those of you who have written to me wanting to be featured in our blog. I will continue to follow up!