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Monday, March 16, 2015

I love to skate

Courtesy of Canadian Tire Jumpstart, in partnership with the Ottawa Senators Foundation & the City of Ottawa, Joseph just participated in the most amazing program called "I Love to Skate". The program provided him with new skates, helmet and skating lessons.

Joseph received skating lessons from qualified instructors at the Albion Heatherington Rec Centre seasonal outdoor rink. Over the course of only 4 lessons, you quickly saw the progress he made and the confidence he gained on the ice. Something he had never been able to do. He had never skated before.


Skating is a sport where he can be successful. He can participate with his friends and have fun, but he isn't dependent on them like he would in a group sport. 

Then came the amazing part .. he was to be able to skate at the Canadian Tire Centre. On Saturday, March 14, 2015, all the children who participated in the program were invited to the Canadian Tire Centre for a skating pizza party. How amazing is that ! A once in a lifetime opportunity for over 500 children !

Children traveled to the CT Centre by school bus and were invited to one of their meeting halls where they were welcomed by representatives of the partner groups. Everywhere there was staff and volunteers to help and support our kids. 




Then it was time to suit up and head to the ice. Each child received their own jersey. They lined up and headed out on the ice.

There is nothing like watching your child, his friends and so many other children experiencing a once in a lifetime moment. I don't know that everyone realized how lucky they were. Actually I sadly know some didn't.


After an hour or so on the ice, the children, parents and staff were treated to a pizza party and cake.


Then while they waited for their trip back home, they were treated to an entertainer. The children loved it and I saw Joseph laughing so hard. A much appreciated activity after what was for some a long day. And we all know how waiting can be difficult.
 

And before we knew it, it was time to head home.


I don't quite know how many thank yous can be said for this amazing day. All the time and effort putting this together and organizing it in a way that was just perfect. I know Joseph will remember this forever. It may not seem like this was all that difficult for him, but it was. There was a time where I don't think he could of gotten through all this. The noise and chaos of so many children and so much going on would of easily been overwhelming to him and his sensory disorder. But over time, it has gotten better and easier for him to do bigger outings and activities. I never gave up even when it seemed hard, I have always continued to take him out and let him love and experience the world. Keeping a close eye, watching for just that moment ... getting ahead of it. Surrounding him with amazing people and friends like Zeina, Julie & Kim who understand and have always been kinder than words can say. There is great people out there who are willing to take the time and appreciate what makes our kids special and happy. Thanks to everyone who created this amazing day for all our children.

Sunday, March 8, 2015

March Break 2015 in Ottawa

As March Break fast approaches, I thought I'd share with you some of the activities I have found that you might find fun to participate in with your kids. Outings can be difficult we all know that. Day camps can be challenging and costly. Most of these activities are free or have a low cost attached. Many of these as well are not very long.  I know sometimes having the chance to participate in something fun that isn't too long can offer you the best chance of success. 

I'll be adding more as I come across them. 

Hope you find something fun !

City of Ottawa Recreation - Albion Heatherington Recreation Centre

The Albion Heatherington Recreation Centre and Andrew Fleck Home Child Care is having a a March Break Activity Day

Thursday, March 19 9:30 - 11:30
Gym Games, Crafts, Snack
Call 613-247-4828
Children must be supervised by parent or caregiver at all times.

Keep in mind, other recreation centres which may be closer to you could be having March Break activities. Consult the City of Ottawa about day camps as well. Don't forget about skating at your local arena or swimming at your local pool.

Billings Bridge Shopping Centre
 Dairy Queen

Free cone day on Monday, March 16th, 2015. Who doesn't like a free cone to kick off March Break !



Chapter's

Chapters  is hosting different activities every day. Themes are Dr. Seuss, Wimpy Kid, Lego, Cinderella & Klutz. Check into the March Break Headquarters for general information. You will need to contact your local Chapter's for exact details and to register.

Michaels Stores

A craft a day .. all sessions are 2 hours from 10am-12pm. Cost is $5 per child or $20 for the whole week.

March 16th - Perler Bead Day
March 17th - Duck Tape Fashions
March 18th - Cardboard City
March 19th - Mixed Media Day Creations
March 20th - Decorate a tote or T-Shirt (requires purchasing a T-shirt, tote or both)

Ottawa Museum Network

Many local museums will be open during March Break hosting a variety of different activities and day camps. Check the Ottawa Museum Network for these. If Museums are your thing, don't forget to check in at the library to borrow an admission pass.

Ottawa Public Libraries

Take a few minutes to check what your local library is doing. This year's theme for March Break is Space Odyssey. Libraries are having a variety of activities in the mornings and afternoons, suitable for different ages. The Living in Space activity is delivered by the Canada Science and Technology guides. The Buck Rogers: Become a Space Ranger activity is delivered by staff from the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum. The wonderful staff from your local library will be delivering stories, activities and crafts during other times. Check the Ottawa Public Library website to see when each location is hosting their activities.

Place d'Orleans Shopping Centre


Toys R Us


Toys R Us will be hosting an activity every day between 1:00-3:00. Themes are Big Hero 6, Sew Cool, Avengers & Cinderella, Stars Wars & Frozen. Check here for the March Break Playday details.

As you can see the possibilities are endless. There is so much more out there, particularly if you have access to a vehicle. We will also be spending a fun filled day at Funhaven courtesy of Autism Ontario. So don't forget to check service providers that work with you if they have any activities for your child.

And if you are looking for some at home activities, I highly recommend the Idea Room facebook page. I've just started following them and they are constantly posting all kinds of great ideas, recipes and helpful tips. Most of all they are posting oodles of great DIY crafts and fun things to do with your kids.

Stay tuned to see details of our March break activities and how successful they were. Hope you can find some fun things to do with the lil ones :)  



March Break 2014 T-Shirt creation at Billings Bridge


March Break 2013 at Midway Family Fun Park


March Break 2013 Face painting at Billings Bridge