There’s nothing quite like seeing your child take their first wobbly glide down a snowy slope—their cheeks rosy, laughter echoing and confidence growing with every run. Skiing with kids can be one of the most rewarding family adventures of the winter—if you’re prepared.

Whether you’re hitting Mount Washington here on Vancouver Island or heading to the mainland for a weekend in Whistler or Cypress, a little planning goes a long way. With the right mindset and preparation, family ski trips can be full of fun, not frustration.

Start Slow

If your child is new to skiing, shorter is better. Think of heading to the hills for a morning adventure rather than a full-day marathon. The key is to stop while everyone’s still happy—even if you only get in a few runs.

Start on the bunny hill and cheer on every success. A little confidence goes a long way, and a few easy wins will make them eager to try again next time.

Dress for the Slopes

Cold kids are typically cranky kids. Proper layers are your best friend on the slopes—a thermal base, a cozy fleece and a waterproof outer layer. Add insulated mittens, a neck warmer and a good helmet. And don’t forget to pack extras because, somehow, gloves always get lost, and socks always get soaked.

Tuck a couple of hand warmers into your jacket, too. They’re like gold when little fingers start freezing.

Invest in a Lesson

Even if you’re an experienced skier, ski school is worth every dime for your kids. Instructors know exactly how to make learning fun, and as most of us know, kids often listen better to anyone but their parents.

Keep Your Expectations Realistic

Let’s be honest: Not every ski day will be perfect. There will be forgotten mittens, cold toes and quite likely tears. That’s okay. Take lots of breaks, keep it calm and don’t force it if everyone’s had enough.

Sometimes, the best memories come from snowball fights in the parking lot or sipping hot chocolate in the lodge instead of hitting every ski run.

Snacks Are the Secret Weapon

Pack a stash of easy, pocket-friendly foods (granola bars, trail mix, cheese sticks or fruit gummies). Keep them in an inside pocket so they stay soft and don’t get wet. Hungry kids lose motivation fast, and mountain food lines can be long.

Make the Journey Part of the Adventure

If you’re heading off-island, the trip can be part of the fun. Catching the ferry, spotting seals and grabbing a warm drink at the ferry terminal can turn a ski weekend into a mini family vacation. Even if you’re just making the trip to Mount Washington on island, pick a fun, scenic place midway there to grab a special treat and take some pictures.

Capture & Celebrate the Little Wins

Whether your child mastered the art of snowman making or made it all the way down the hill smiling, celebrate it! Take photos, laugh together and talk about the day’s adventures on the drive home. Those small victories are what fuel a lifelong love of the outdoors.

You’re not just teaching them to ski—you’re teaching them resilience, courage and joy in trying new things.

Pack Smart & Keep the Car Cozy

A well-packed car can save your sanity. Use bins to separate gear, snacks and dry clothes. Bring a cozy change of clothes and maybe a blanket for the ride home—nothing feels better after a day on the slopes.

If you’re driving up a mountain like Washington, make sure your vehicle is winter-ready with snow tires and an emergency kit.

In the end, skiing with kids isn’t about perfect turns or long runs, it’s about time together. So, pack the snacks, embrace the chaos and hit the slopes. You might just start a family tradition that lasts long after the snow melts.

As a way to keep things affordable, check out the SnowStart Kidz Pass. Available for kids ages six to 12, it allows three visits at each of the 60 participating ski areas across Canada—that’s more than 180 lift tickets so it’s like carrying a season’s worth of skiing in your pocket, all for $39.99 + tax!”

When the air turns crisper and leaves start to glow golden, Vancouver Island transforms into a fall playground—perfect for families on a budget. This season, explore magic, local markets and cozy outdoor escapes without spending a fortune.

South Island

Esquimalt Lagoon Migratory Bird Sanctuary, Colwood: A free and peaceful spot for birdwatching during peak migration season. Come with binoculars to catch all the birds in the trees and enjoy the seasonal flurry of geese and shorebirds. esquimaltlagoon.com

Sooke Regional Museum, Sooke: Located just off Highway 14 in Sooke, the Sooke Regional Museum delights families with indoor exhibits on First Nations culture, logging, mining, maritime history, plus outdoor artifacts like a rescued lighthouse and blacksmith shop. This donation-based museum also serves as a Visitor Information Centre and includes a lovely gift shop. sookeregionmuseum.ca

Duncan & Mill Bay

Duncan Farmers’ Market, Duncan: A year-round Saturday market with local produce, crafts and homemade goodies. Walk around, soak up the harvest vibe—it’s all free to browse and enjoy the entertainment on site. duncanfarmersmarket.ca

Bright Angel Regional Park, Duncan: A peaceful gem with forested trails, a kid-loved suspension bridge, playground, picnic shelters and river access. Perfect for a crisp fall day visit. cvrd.ca

Bamberton Provincial Park, Mill Bay: A tranquil beach and woodland park on the Saanich Inlet. It’s a quiet, scenic spot for family walks or beachcombing. bcparks.ca

Somenos Marsh & Boardwalk, Just beyond Crofton: This wildlife refuge showcases migratory birds with accessible boardwalks and peaceful views—it’s nature’s free fall spectacle. somenosmarsh.com

Chemainus Murals Walking Tour, Chemainus: Stroll through town exploring more than 40 stunning outdoor murals that chronicle local history and culture. Grab a self-guided map—it’s totally free and creativity-packed. visitchemainus.ca

Central Island

Harbourfront & Nanaimo Bastion, Nanaimo: Although the Bastion is only open during the summer, you can wander along the scenic waterfront and snap some cool photos near the beautiful and historic Nanaimo Bastion. It’s a quiet stroll and a slice of local history. nanaimomuseum.ca

Englishman River Falls & Little Qualicum Falls, Qualicum Beach: Two stunning waterfall parks, each offering easy family-friendly loop trails surrounded by brilliant fall foliage. Catch sight of salmon spawning in late fall for an added spectacular bonus. bcparks.ca

Farmers Markets & Coombs Old Country Market, “Goats on the Roof” in Coombs: Wander morning markets in Qualicum, park for free, chat with bakers and grab local snacks. Don’t miss the quirky goats grazing on Coombs Market’s rooftop—it’s a fun stop for all ages. oldcountrymarket.com

West Island

Port Alberni Museum & Maritime Discovery Centre, Port Alberni: Explore local history, First Nations culture and interactive exhibits that engage all ages. It’s a great way to spend a rainy fall day with a family rate of just $25. portalbernimaritimeheritage.ca

Fossli Provincial Park & Sproat Lake, Port Alberni: Hike to a historic homestead site amid stunning autumn foliage or enjoy lake-side views with fall’s incredible fire-hued palette. bcparks.ca

Amphitrite Point Lighthouse & Lighthouse Loop, Ucluelet: Part of the Wild Pacific Trail, this stroller-friendly 2.6km loop delivers dramatic coastal views, and a historic 1915 concrete lighthouse. The lighthouse tower is off-limits, but the grounds are free to explore, making it perfect for families craving accessible, scenic adventure. wildpacifictrail.com

North Island

Quatsino Provincial Park Wilderness Escape, Port Alice: Primitive and peaceful, this is a real hidden gem! It’s great for mid-fall kayaking or hiking trips among bald eagles, old-growth forest and coastal wildlife. bcparks.ca

Nymph Falls & Salmon Watching, Black Creek: Here is an easy forest walk ending at Nymph Falls with opportunities to spot salmon swimming upstream in November. comoxvalleyrd.ca

Courtenay Riverway Heritage Walk/Bike Path, Courtenay: This is a scenic, flat path perfect for family strolls or bike rides along the river. courtenay.ca

Comox Air Force Museum & Heritage Air Park, Comox: This donation-based museum showcases aircraft and aviation history, including a heritage hangar and cool outdoor displays. comoxairforcemuseum.ca

Shamrock Farm Pumpkin Picking & Fall Treats, Comox: Affordable pick-your-own pumpkins and seasonal delights await your family at this unique family-friendly farm. shamrockfarm.ca

Elk Falls Provincial Park & Suspension Bridge, Campbell River: Experience dramatic waterfalls and canyon views from a suspension bridge. It is totally accessible and free to visit. bcparks.ca

Remember when we were growing up and birthday parties were just balloons, hot dogs, cupcakes and maybe a game of “Pin the Tail on the Donkey?” A “super memorable” party was when pizza was ordered from the best place in town! But now you’ve got a tween or teen who rolls their eyes at all your suggestions for a birthday celebration.

The good news is that you can throw an awesome, age-appropriate birthday party without renting a limo or selling a kidney. With the right setup (and just a little bit of creative flair), even a party at home can be cool again.

Pick a Theme – and Keep it Chill

Think “glow-up spa night,” “epic video game battle” or “DIY bubble tea + bracelet bar.” Nothing too cutesy, just a loose vibe that feels fun and not cringey.

Let Them Be the Party Planner

Give them a budget, some Pinterest inspiration and let them make the calls. The more ownership they have, the more excited they’ll be and the less they’ll act like you’re ruining everything.

Help Them Make the Space Feel Like Theirs

You don’t need to redecorate your house, just tweak the atmosphere. String lights, photo backdrops or snacks in TikTok-worthy setups create an instant vibe that will make everyone want to take and post all the pics.

Need some specific ideas to make your home into a space people of all ages will love? We’ve got you:

• Have an Outdoor Movie Night – Projector, popcorn and blankets make an instant win.

• Put Out a Make-Your-Own Pizza & Sundae Bar – All you need is food and their creativity. This one is zero effort for you (except cleaning up!).

• Epic Spa Night – Sheet masks, cucumber water, nail polish and a speaker = happy teens.

• Create a Backyard Glow Party – Glow sticks, neon lights, outdoor selfie stations and maybe some fun outdoor games.

• Host a Murder Mystery or Escape Room Challenge – Buy a printable kit or DIY one.

• Creative Hangout Night (something for everyone!) – Paint tote bags, make bath bombs or try Polaroid journalling.

But what if your home is small, or your kids just don’t want to have their friends in their own space? Here are some great spots that don’t break the bank.

1. Swimming Pools. Most indoor pools have slides, wave pools and offer “party packages” that include swimming and a party room perhaps with some activities. If budget is a big factor, you don’t need to book the party room—just pay for the pool admissions then hand out post-swimming cupcakes in a nearby park.

You’ll often find the same deals at ice skating rinks and bowling alleys around town.

2. Movie Nights. Cineplex or Landmark Cinemas offer group rates (or grab the discounted ticket packages from Costco), and you can do the same cupcake trick as above or hit a nearby bubble tea place after.

3. Art or Craft Studios. Dedicated art spaces like 4Cats Studio or even community centre nights are perfect for hands-on fun. Everyone goes home with a masterpiece—and maybe a new skill.

4. Board Game Cafés. Board Game Cafes, some pizza places around town and even some community centres offer evenings that combine food and games to make a fun, social party.

5. Head to a Park. Picnic at the top of PKOLS, Beacon Hill Park, Maffeo Sutton Park, Transfer Beach or one of the other amazing parks or waterfront locations around the Island. Plan a fun teen-themed scavenger hunt or just set up some selfie stations.

Remember that birthday parties don’t have to be over-the-top to be memorable. Give your teens a little control, a space to be silly and maybe some pizza and it’ll be a huge hit. Whether you go full party-planner mode or wing it with a backyard glow stick dance party, the goal is simple—make them feel celebrated without totally losing your mind (or draining your bank account).

Outdoor concerts and festivals are a delightful way for families to connect, celebrate community and enjoy the arts. These events offer more than just music—they’re opportunities to create lasting memories together.

Here are just a few reasons to experience an outdoor concert or festival this summer.

Community Connection

Outdoor concerts bring together people from all walks of life, fostering a sense of unity and shared experience. Gathering in parks and public spaces to enjoy live performances strengthens community bonds and encourages local pride.

Discovering New Music & Culture

These events often showcase a variety of musical genres and cultural expressions. Families can introduce children to different styles of music, instruments and performances, broadening their horizons and appreciation for the arts.

Affordable Entertainment

Many outdoor concerts are free or low-cost, making them accessible options for family outings. They provide high-quality entertainment without financial strain, allowing families to enjoy cultural experiences together.

Creating Lasting Memories

The relaxed atmosphere of outdoor concerts—picnicking on the grass, dancing under the stars or simply enjoying music in the open air—creates cherished memories. These shared experiences become stories that families recount for years to come.

There are some fantastic outdoor concerts and festivals happening across Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands this summer:

PRISMA Festival

June 16 to 28, Various venues in Powell River

A special celebration of classical music with symphony and chamber concerts, masterclasses and student recitals. Some events require tickets while others are offered for free. prismafestival.com

Cultivate Festival

July 12 to 13, Gabriola Island Festival Site

A free two-day festival of music, theatre and performing arts on Gabriola Island, presented in approximately 14 performances and roving acts, suitable for all ages. artsgabriola.ca

Islands Folk Festival

July 25 to 27, Providence Farm in Duncan

A family-friendly folk music festival featuring a diverse lineup of artists, workshops and activities in a picturesque farm setting. Kids under 15 are free with a ticketed adult. islandsfolkfestival.ca

Filberg Festival

August 1 to 3, Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park in Comox

An awesome arts and crafts festival with live music, artisan vendors and children’s activities in a beautiful garden setting. Get your tickets soon—and remember children under 12 are free. filberg.com

Wonderment Festival

August 1 to 10, Various parks across Victoria

Enjoy the 10th anniversary celebration of this vibrant ambient music and arts festival with performances in scenic public parks. Enjoy free daily events suitable for families, and evening ticketed events for adults. wonderment.ca

Symphony Splash

August 2 to 3, Victoria Inner Harbour

This iconic free event features the Victoria Symphony performing from a floating stage in the Inner Harbour. The weekend includes performances by the National Youth Orchestra of Canada and culminates in a spectacular evening concert. victoriasymphony.ca

Five Acre Shaker

August 9 to 10, Port Alberni Fall Fair Grounds

An energetic music festival celebrating its 10th anniversary, featuring live performances and community spirit in a coastal setting. Don’t miss the yummy food and the exciting kids zone. Kids under 12 are free with a ticketed adult. fiveacreshaker.ca

i-Land Fest

August 29 to 31, Ship Point in Victoria

A fun, festive Caribbean cultural festival featuring music, dance, food and family-friendly activities celebrating island heritage. Please note that the day events at Ship Point are free and family friendly; however, most of the evening activities require tickets and are 19-plus events. ilandfest.com

Outdoor concerts and festivals across Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands offer something magical for every member of the family. These events aren’t just about the music—they’re about coming together as a community, supporting local talent and embracing the rich cultural tapestry of the island. With many events offering free or low-cost admission, they’re a fantastic way to enjoy summer without breaking the bank. So, pack a picnic, grab a blanket and set out on a summer adventure.

Leaving your kid home alone for the first time is a rite of passage—for them and for you. But how do you know if they’re ready? Are they responsible enough to handle an hour solo without turning your kitchen into a science experiment gone wrong?

Here are nine things to consider before you make your decision.

1. Consider Age vs. Maturity

While there’s no magic age when your child can be safely left on their own, experts generally suggest kids under 10 shouldn’t be left alone. That said, some 12-year-olds would lose their heads if it wasn’t attached, while some nine-year-olds could probably file your taxes. It’s about maturity, not just the number of candles on their last birthday cake.

2. How Will They Handle Snack Time?

If your child’s idea of “cooking” is eating dry cereal straight from the box, they might not be ready for solo snack duty. If they can whip up a simple snack without setting off the smoke alarm (or leaving a mess that looks like a tornado hit the kitchen), they’re on the right track.

3. Do They Have Emergency Know-How?

Run a pop quiz: “What do you do if a stranger knocks on the door?” If their answer is anything other than “Don’t open it,” you might need to go over Home Alone 101 again. They need to be able to recite emergency numbers, your phone number and at least two other numbers of family members, friends or neighbours who live close by. They should also know where you keep the first aid kit and how to use it.

4. Do a Mini Test Run

Before heading out for a whole evening, start small. Run to the grocery store for 15 minutes and see what happens. If you come back and everything is as you left it, that’s a great sign. If your living room now resembles an art project gone wrong, they might need a little more time. Try extending the test to a quick coffee run before leaving them alone for longer stretches.

5. Are They Comfortable Being Alone?

This is a very important question. Even if your child seems responsible enough, ask them if they are comfortable being alone. Some kids love the idea until they’re home alone and start imagining every creak is a burglar. If they’re nervous, ease into it with short absences before jumping to a full evening away. Remind them that the “monsters” they hear are probably just the fridge making weird noises.

6. Will They Be in Charge of Siblings?

Leaving one kid alone is one thing, but if they have younger siblings, the game changes. If your older child is mature enough to watch their younger siblings without turning the house into a WWE arena, that’s great. If they still argue over who breathes too loudly, maybe rethink that plan. Also, make sure they understand their role isn’t to “parent” their sibling but to keep things in order—no drastic haircut experiments or extreme bossiness allowed.

7. Have You Gone Over the Rules?

Make sure they know what’s off-limits (the stove, answering the door, roller skating in the house, etc). And make sure you agree upon a check-in plan—whether it’s calling you after an hour or sending a periodical “still alive, no disasters” text.

8. Do You Have a Backup Plan?

Even if your kid is ready to be home alone, it’s useful to have a backup plan–at least the first few times. Things happen—the Wi-Fi fails, the dog escapes or a random panic sets in. Make sure a nearby friend, relative or neighbour is on standby just in case. It’ll give you peace of mind knowing your child has someone to call for help if needed.

9. Trust Your Gut

At the end of the day, you know your kid best. If you have that nagging feeling they’re not quite ready, trust it. There’s no rush—eventually, they’ll be begging you to leave them alone so they can blast their music and eat snacks in peace. If your gut says they’re ready, take a deep breath and embrace this new independent phase.

Leaving your child home alone is a big step for both of you. Start small, prepare them well and embrace the moment when you realize you can finally run errands by yourself.

Oh, the joys of parenting in the TikTok era!

“But Mom,” my almost 11-year-old daughter wails, eyes wide and pleading, “Everyone has it! I’ll be the only one without the holographic glitter lip gloss!”

And just like that, I’m transported back to my own pre-teen years, the memory of teenage angst still buzzing inside of me. I remember the agonizing pressure to fit in, the constant bombardment of “must-haves” from magazines and music videos. It was brutal back in the ’90s, and scarily, it seems much more intense now.

It might be expensive Sephora makeup they’ve seen on TikTok or a name-brand hoodie they claim is a “must-have.” But what happens when your tween or teen asks for something with a price tag that makes you flinch, or doesn’t align with your family’s values?

As a mom who’s navigated these stormy waters more times than I can count, I’m here to share some survival tips—because let’s face it, trends come and go, but sanity is forever.

Understand the Trend’s Appeal

Before you respond to your child’s request, take a moment to understand why they want the item.

Is it because a lot of their peers have it? Does it offer some sort of social status or is it perceived as a “cool” factor? Is it something they genuinely find interesting or useful?

Ask a few questions, like “What do you like about it?” or “Is there a reason this is so popular right now?”

Understanding why my kid wants something is half the battle for me. She’s not just being materialistic—she is trying to fit in, explore her identity and find her place in this crazy, trend-driven world. Once I see where she is coming from, it’s easier to respond with empathy.

Utilize the “Wait & See” Method

The classic waiting game still works—sometimes. When my daughter first begged for a certain brand of $50 water bottle (you know the one!), I didn’t say yes or no—I just said, “Let’s wait a week and see if you still want it.”

Spoiler alert: By the end of the week, she’d already moved on to something else. Trends have a way of losing their sparkle when you’re not caught up in the hype. So, if you’re not sure if a purchase is worth it, give it some time.

Offer Less Expensive Alternatives

If they are adamant that they want a certain item, try to redirect the conversation toward alternatives. For instance, if my child is pushing for this week’s trendy hoodie, I will suggest checking out similar styles at more affordable stores or online shops.

Once it was simply the logo my daughter liked on a hoodie, so I purchased her a sticker version of that logo she then put on her water bottle.

This compromise shows your child that you’re willing to listen to what they want and respect what they like without giving in to every expensive demand.

Focus on Non-Material Values

In a world that often equates possessions with self-worth, it’s crucial to emphasize non-material values. Remind your kids that their friendships, talents and kindness matter far more than owning the latest gadget or designer clothing item. And make sure they know that friendship should not be based on what they wear or own.

In my house, these reminders often receive an eye roll from my daughter, but I can tell the message is starting to sink in.

Involve Them in Budgeting

Teens often have no concept of money so consider involving your kids in the family budgeting process. Show them how much things cost and how you allocate funds for necessities, savings and extras. This transparency can help them understand why certain items might not fit into the family’s financial picture and empower them to make more informed decisions in the future.

Relate the cost of the item to money they have earned or received in the past. I often remind my daughter that the “fortune” she received from her grandparents in her last birthday card only equals half of the cost of the shoes she wants to buy.

Focus on fostering values that will last a lifetime, and trust that your child will eventually find their own unique path, glitter lip gloss or not. And hey, we all went through it, right?

Try to remember that and cut them some slack when possible.

Farmers’ markets aren’t just about fresh veggies and homemade jam, they’re bustling hubs of creativity, learning and opportunity—especially for kids with big ideas and families looking for fun ways to connect!

Here on Vancouver Island, these markets are more than a place to shop—they’re spaces where young entrepreneurs can test out business ideas and families can enjoy a day of exploring, tasting and supporting local businesses. Whether it’s a budding artist selling handcrafted jewelry or a young baker offering cookies fresh from the oven, farmers’ markets provide real-world lessons in business, creativity and community.

So, let’s dive into why these markets are a great experience for young entrepreneurs and a fantastic way for families to spend time together.

Get creative. Whether it’s painted driftwood, homemade beeswax candles or fresh-baked dog treats, kids can see how they can turn their hobbies into a business.

Get money smart. Encourage kids to ask how makers set their prices and help them figure out profit margins. Then give your kids a specific amount of money to spend and help them with the budget so they can buy what they truly want.

Support local and sustainable business. Buying and selling handmade, homegrown or eco-friendly goods teaches kids about ethical entrepreneurship and the importance of shopping locally.

Meet the growers and makers. Kids can ask farmers how carrots grow, learn where their honey comes from or chat with an artisan about soap-making.

Taste the many flavours of the island. From fresh-picked berries to warm, flaky pastries and fresh pressed juice, local markets offer incredible food that kids (and parents) will love.

Vancouver Island is home to some of the best farmers’ markets in BC, and many of them are perfect for families and young business minds. Here are a few of our favourites from all over the island.

Moss Street Market (Victoria)

This large market carries almost everything you can dream of! It runs year-round and even features a Young Entrepreneurs Market, where kids can sell their own products and gain real business experience. mossstreetmarket.com

Duncan Farmers’ Market

This is one of the biggest markets on the island—and it’s open 50 weeks of the year (closed for two weeks at Christmas). With over 150 vendors, it’s the perfect place for families to explore and for young business owners to see how local entrepreneurs thrive. duncanfarmersmarket.ca

Qualicum Beach Farmers’ Market

Here’s another market that’s open year-round and one people travel from all over the island to visit. This market is strictly “Make it, Bake it, Grow it,” meaning everything is locally made or grown—a great place for kids to learn about ethical business practices. qbfarmersmarket.com

Errington Farmers’ Market

This charming market may only be open from May to September every year, but it’s been going strong for over 50 years! Located in a beautiful, shady forest setting, it’s a favourite for families and often features local youth selling their crafts, baked goods and homegrown produce. erringtonfarmersmarket.ca

Comox Valley Farmers’ Market

The Comox Valley Farmers’ Market holds a year-round market every Saturday in Courtenay and a seasonal market in Cumberland, as well as various vendor and special events across the Comox Valley. This market is a must-visit for food lovers and a fantastic place for kids to get inspired by local vendors. cvfm.ca

Sidney Street Market

Probably the ultimate summer market! Every Thursday evening from June until September, the Sidney Street Market transforms Sidney into a lively street festival, with vendors, live music, delicious food and a ton of fun for everyone. sidney.ca

Salt Spring Saturday Market

From April to October, head to Ganges on a Saturday morning to pick up your local produce and freshly baked goods. Check out the handmade clothes and all the arts and crafts from talented locals of all ages. saltspringmarket.com

Cedar Farmers’ Market (Nanaimo)

Located just outside of Nanaimo, the Cedar Farmers’ Market runs from May until October every year. Featuring special programs to benefit local agriculture and nutrition programs that support youth and local families, it’s the perfect place to explore food, crafts and beauty products. cedarfarmersmarket.org

Farmers’ markets on Vancouver Island are so much more than a place to shop. They’re places where families connect, kids learn valuable skills and young entrepreneurs take their first steps into the world of business. So, whether your child dreams of selling their own handmade goodies, or you’re just looking for a fun weekend activity, grab a tote bag and head to your nearest farmers’ market.

Vision plays a big role in your child’s development—from learning at school to enjoying playtime with friends. If you’re wondering whether your child’s vision is on track, you’re in the right place!

Let’s chat about the guidelines for children’s vision tests and everything else you need to know about eye exams and glasses.

Why Regular Vision Tests Are Important

You might think your child’s vision is fine if they’re not complaining, but often kids don’t realize they’re not seeing as clearly as they should. Vision problems can develop slowly, and kids may adapt without saying a word. That’s why regular eye exams are so important. Things can often change in the blink of an eye (pun intended!)

When Should Kids Get Eye Exams?

The BC Doctors of Optometry website suggests that your child’s first comprehensive eye exam should happen as early as between six and nine months old. Then annual exams are recommended between ages two and 19 years of age.

Eye exams aren’t just about reading an eye chart. Optometrists also check for things like eye alignment, depth perception and colour vision, as well as any underlying health issues. Catching problems like a lazy eye, crossed eyes or nearsightedness early can make a huge difference in your child’s success and confidence.

What to Do If You’re Concerned

Sometimes it’s tricky to know if your child is struggling with their vision, but if you notice any of the following signs, don’t wait—book an eye exam! Optometrists are experts in figuring out what’s going on and can help get things back on track.

• Squinting, covering one eye or tilting their head to see better.

• Complaining about headaches or saying their eyes hurt.

• Holding books or screens close to their face.

• Losing their place while reading or having trouble focusing on visual tasks.

• Avoiding activities like reading, drawing or puzzles.

• Showing frustration or a drop in confidence at school.

Eye Exam Coverage for Kids

The Medical Services Plan (MSP) covers most, if not all, of the cost of kid’s eye exams up to the age of 18, depending on the clinic and exam. You may have extended benefits through work or personal benefit plans, and these will likely cover the portion of eye exams that isn’t covered by MSP. But if you don’t have extended care, or your coverage is low, you may wish to investigate the Healthy Kids program.

Healthy Kids helps families with low incomes by covering basic health needs, including vision care, for children under 19 who qualify for MSP premium assistance. It covers one routine eye exam per year and partial coverage for prescription glasses.

Choosing the Right Eye Care Professional

The BC Optometrist Society’s website is a fantastic resource for finding trusted professionals near you. Always look for someone who has the following qualities:

• Experience with Kids: Make sure they’re licensed and comfortable working with children.

• Kid-Friendly Environment: A welcoming, stress-free clinic can help your child feel relaxed during their visit.

• Comprehensive Services: Ensure the office offers full care, which includes checking eye health, visual skills and fitting glasses if needed.

• Clear Communication: They should explain everything in a way you both and your child can understand.

Helping Your Child Adjust to Glasses

If your child needs glasses, they might feel a little unsure about it at first. Here’s how you can help:

• Let Them Pick: Choosing their own frames can make wearing glasses more exciting.

• Start Slow: If they’re hesitant, let them wear their glasses for short periods and gradually increase the time. This can help ease the adjustment process.

• Offer Lots of Praise: Ensure everyone in the family celebrates how great they look and reminds them how awesome it is to take care of their eyes.

• Encourage Consistency: Help them wear their glasses as prescribed so their eyes can adjust and get the full benefit.

• Set a Good Example: If you wear glasses, show them how normal (and cool!) it is to wear them properly.

It’s also important to teach them how to care for their glasses. Simple tips like using both hands to take them off, keeping them in a case and cleaning them using only a microfibre cloth will go a long way.

Your child’s vision is such an important part of their growth and happiness, and regular eye exams are a key to keeping it in check. Even if you didn’t realize kids need eye exams until reading this (don’t worry, you’re not the only one!), or if it’s slipped your mind and you’ve skipped a few exams (again, you’re not alone!), there’s no time like the present to get back on track.

Learn more at healthlinkbc.ca.

The holidays are all about joy, love and making memories—not maxing out your credit card! Ditch the pricey presents and embrace the magic of thoughtful, creative and fun ways to celebrate. Here are some tips on how to keep the season merry without going into debt.

1. Skip Store-Bought

Gifts that can’t be wrapped are often the most memorable. Plan a cozy night in with friends and family, grab some blankets, pop some popcorn and have a holiday movie marathon. Or gather the crew and go on a holiday light tour around town. Host a cookie-decorating party or make your own hot cocoa party with all the fixings. No matter if you’re with friends or family—or both—these are the experiences you’ll remember long after the season is over, not how much was spent on presents.

2. DIY It

Homemade gifts have a way of making everyone feel special–and they’re even more appreciated if your kids help you. Whip up some goodies like gingerbread cookies or make holiday fudge and wrap it up in cute, festive bags. Why not simply layer the ingredients for hot cocoa in a mason jar and tie a ribbon around it?

Consider a simple craft project. Make ornaments with friends or hand-paint all your holiday cards. Personalized touches show you care and cost next to nothing. People will appreciate the effort over another store-bought knick-knack.

3. Not All Presents Fit Under the Tree

Why go big on spending when you can go big on meaning? Put together a “Favourite Things” package such as a handpicked playlist for your music-loving friend, a homemade recipe book for a self-taught chef or a photo album capturing memories with your bestie. Plan a local day trip to somewhere your kids love or give them each a “Yes Day” regarding the games your family plays and what you make for each meal.

4. Host a Secret Santa Exchange

Instead of breaking the bank to buy for everyone, suggest a Secret Santa or gift swap with your friends, extended family, workplace or older children. Not only will this save everyone money, but it adds an element of surprise and makes gift-giving more exciting. Draw names, set a spending limit (get creative with a $5 or $10 max) and see what funny, thoughtful or quirky things people come up with.

5. Stick to a Budget

Set a budget that works for your family and think of it as a fun game to see what ideas you can come up with using the amount you have set aside. Add some friendly competition with friends or family to see who can find the most creative, low-cost gift. You’ll be surprised how freeing it is not to worry about spending too much, and it’s a good feeling knowing you won’t face any post-holiday financial woes.

6. The Gift of Time

Offer your time to help a friend or family member out. Maybe it’s babysitting, pet-sitting, helping them organize a room or even giving a free home spa or movie night where you bring treats and cozy blankets. Make personalized coupons as gifts, such as a coffee date or ice cream on the beach, on you. These coupons for time together are especially great gifts for your kids to give their grandparents, aunts and uncles. Often, a fun adventure can feel more thoughtful than anything you’ll find in a store.

7. Free and Festive Activities

Check out what’s happening around town. Holiday parades, tree lightings, carolling and local markets are often free or low-cost and full of holiday vibes. Bundle up and check out the lights, enjoy the music and soak in the season with your family and friends.

8. Make New Traditions

If some of your current traditions are costly, it’s time to create new ones! Start hosting a yearly brunch with homemade waffles and hot cocoa for your extended family and friends or create fond family memories by picking up some inexpensive crafting supplies so everyone can make a piece of holiday décor that can be brought out year after year.

Remember, the holidays are about togetherness and celebrating. Use these ideas to reduce the stress around how much you spend and get to making those important Christmas memories your kids will cherish for years to come.