Everything Family
Hello one and all. Welcome to the 2024 edition of the Okanagan Family Magazine. We work hard to find interesting, engaging and local editorial for every issue and we’re grateful for all who help us put together our magazine. Steamoji is a new comer to our magazine and we welcome their holistic approach to science … Read More “Note from the Editor” »
by Andriy Ahapov • Steamoji Kelowna In today’s fast-paced world, where technological advancements shape the future, the need for comprehensive education has never been more critical. Steamoji Kelowna stands at the forefront, offering a transformative experience for children aged 5-13. We are more than just a summer camp; we are a maker academy dedicated to … Read More “Empowering the Innovators of Tomorrow” »
By Cheryl Hood, Centre Manager • Allan Brooks Nature Centre In the fast-paced world we live in, amidst the flurry of screens and schedules, it’s all too easy for children to miss out on the serene joys that nature generously offers. Yet, in the midst of a bustling community lies a world teeming with enchantment, … Read More “Small Wonders in the Great Outdoors” »
By Mike Edwards • Telemark Nordic Club Like many in the valley, Emily Young is a transplant who fell in love with the Okanagan. Originally from North Vancouver, she met an Okanagan boy while they were both training for endurance sports and together they made the most of the joys of the four season outdoor … Read More “Conquering Adversity Through Passion and Perseverance” »
By Rachel Davison • Photography: Davison Orchards Many years ago I worked at a summer sports camp in Saskatchewan. Some weeks, we would bus inner-city kids from Regina to and from camp. I’ll never forget how one boy, looking out the window, asked me what all the yellow fields were. Surprised that he didn’t know, … Read More “Where Does Our Food Come From? Teaching the Next Generation” »
by Marie Hartwell-Walker, Ed.D. • Psych Central www.psychcentral.com Managing your work life and your love life is a balancing act — but there are several helpful hacks. With your packed schedule and running to-do list, it’s natural if you feel challenged by balancing doing your best work and being the best partner. On particularly stressful … Read More “How to Manage Love and Career” »
By Ashley Machum • Okanagan Regional Library School is almost out! Students have worked all school year to learn and master new skills. The summer break can lead to learning loss also known as the summer slide. Summer slide is not to be confused with a fun ride. This is what happens when learning slowly … Read More “Great Summer Reads” »
Dr. Kathy Wise MD, FRCSC • Olive Fertility Centre Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common cause of infertility, affecting up to 15% of women in North America. An estimated 50% of women with PCOS go undiagnosed. This can have significant health implications as, in addition to being a leading cause of infertility, PCOS is … Read More “This Silent Disease is a Leading Cause of Infertility in Women” »
By Cyndee Sapiano-Cummings • Okanagan Foster Parents Association I thought it was a sales call. After three days of persistent calls from the same number, I had reached my limit and needed the calls to stop.To my surprise, when I picked up the phone, the man on the other end did not want to sell … Read More “As Simple As a Sweater” »
by Marie Hartwell-Walker, Ed.D. • Psych Central www.psychcentral.com 1. Don’t pretend you are not afraid of things you fear. Children have radar for when the adults are lying — which makes them all the more fearful. Better to tell a child you have a silly fear and you are working on it. Do deal with … Read More “7 Ways to Help a Child with Fear” »
BGC Okanagan • Summer excitement starts here! From STEM and creative crafts to outdoor adventures, make this summer unforgettable for your child with BGC Okanagan programs. Visit www.bgco.ca. Bridlewood Riding Centre • Bridlewood Riding Centre’s Summer Camps for Kids provide riding lessons, horse care, and horsemanship skills in a safe, fun environment. Suitable for beginner … Read More “SUMMER CAMPS AT A GLANCE” »
By Jessie Billey, BBA • YMCA of Southern Interior BC “Last year, I didn’t like going to school. I was being picked on and spent recess avoiding other kids. I felt like no one ever wanted to play with me and I was scared to try and make friends,” shares eight year old James. “Grade … Read More “More than a Camp: From Social Exclusion to Thriving” »
By Chloe Matkovich and Molly Koch, B.Sc • Vista Academy “Not everyone that comes to the table sits. Some lie on the floor underneath, some stim and flap nearby, some run around the table, some twirl and dance at the side. Everyone is valuable. Even if you don’t sit, you still deserve space at the … Read More “Bridging Differences Through Inclusion” »
by Deanna Kristensen • Photography: Justa Jeskova, Geoff Holman and Big White Ski Resort Looking for an ideal family vacation that merges fun, adventure and aligns with your budget? This summer, step away from the hustle of the Okanagan Valley and immerse yourself and the family in the serene beauty of Big White. Envision unwinding … Read More “Economical Family Fun and Easy Access to the Alpine Await” »