Playtime
Skating at Robson Square
In preparation for the Vancouver 2010 Olympics, the city has done some pretty spectacular things. One of our favourites is the GE Plaza at Robson Square, an outdoor skating rink complete with live music, a zamboni painted like an Orca, and free helmets for children. Oh – and strollers are permitted on the ice. What more could a parent want? You can even rent skates (a la Rockefeller Plaza) for a romantic lunch date downtown with a working spouse (and the Bugaboo can accompany you as you glide together). Robson Street at Howe, free admission, $3 ice skate rentals. Open 9am – 9pm.
Chalkboard Paint
And we thought that black chalkboard paint was cool. Imagine being able to make a wipe-off-able rainbow… Hudson Paint has just released its fab chalkboard paint in 24 new colors. Paint the kids snack table, create a child-height border around their bedroom, or finally get organized by making a flow chart on a wall in the mudroom. You could also paint the inside of kitchen cupboard doors, or make a wipe-able calendar on your office wall. Resolution to get organized? Done. Read more
Melissa and Doug Joey Magnetic Playset
Our testers have tried this one, and it is the most fabulous toy for toddlers and preschoolers. Outfits make a little boy named ‘Joey’ into a fireman, policeman, superhero, pirate or knight, and the magnetic clothing sticks incredibly well. Did we mention that it is wooden? And includes a super heavy-duty stand? Creativity abounds, and you might just end up with a little fashion designer. Next? A sewing machine. www.melissaanddoug.com
Kids and Dogs
Autumn is almost here which means it’s time to put our kids in cute wool sweaters and take them out to the city park or the woods for a tromp in the leaves. Well, the good and bad news is that you’re not alone in your thinking. At a variety of parks, woods, and beaches you’ll find a lot of people out walking their dogs –– which, for a new parent, or parents of babies and young children without dogs, can be a source of some anxiety. Read more
Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream
While in Seattle (Washington) recently, Urban Mommies discovered Molly Moon’s Ice Cream and fell in love! The hand-made ice cream boutique has been featured in Bon Appetit magazine and features fantastic and creative gourmet and European flavours. There’s Birthday Cake and “Scout” Mint for the kids and flavours like Balsamic Strawberry, Honey Lavender and Rosemary Meyer Lemon for the big kids. The flavours–which include vegan sorbets–change daily and they have fabulously creative odd sundaes. Their prices are cheap and their portions are huge! Here’s a tip for ordering: Read more
