Tag: calgary

Small Changes, Big Impact: A Dad’s Guide to Sustainable Living for Earth Day

admin   ·  

As a dad, I always look for ways to make positive changes in my family’s life. With Earth Day just around the corner, I have been thinking a lot about our impact on the planet and what small changes we can make to live more sustainably.

Living sustainably doesn’t mean uprooting your entire lifestyle or making drastic changes. Small adjustments can make a significant difference. Here are some simple ideas that families can implement to live a more sustainable life:

  1. Reduce Food Waste: One of the easiest ways to reduce our environmental impact is by reducing food waste. Plan meals ahead of time, freeze leftovers, and use up all the produce before it goes bad. Composting is also an excellent way to reduce food waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
  2. Use Reusable Bags and Containers: Plastic bags and containers contribute to the ever-growing plastic pollution problem. Switch to reusable bags and containers for grocery shopping, meal prep, and packed lunches. Not only will you reduce your environmental impact, but you’ll also save money in the long run.
  3. Cut Down on Single-Use Plastics: Single-use plastics significantly contribute to plastic pollution from straws to water bottles to coffee cups. Invest in reusable options and encourage your family to make the switch. It may take some time, but the planet (and your wallet) will thank you.
  4. Choose Sustainable Products: When shopping for products, look for environmentally-friendly options. From cleaning supplies to clothing to personal care items, there are sustainable options available that can reduce your environmental impact.
  5. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances: Appliances can be a significant source of energy use in the home. Consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances that use less energy and save money on utility bills.
  6. Walk or Bike More: Cars contribute to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Try walking or biking more often for short trips, and consider public transportation or carpooling for longer journeys.

These are just a few small changes families can make to live more sustainably. Every little bit counts and even small actions can significantly impact. By making sustainable choices, we can help protect our planet for future generations.

As a dad, I must set a good example for my children and show them the importance of living sustainably. We can all contribute to a healthier planet and a better future by making small changes in our daily lives. Happy Earth Day!

Granary Road, Family Farm Fun Near Calgary!

admin   ·  

Granary Road Calgary is a unique destination (Map Link) that offers an excellent experience for families looking for a fun and educational day out. This attraction boasts a combination of farm, market, and educational components that make it a perfect outing for both children and adults. Our family recently visited Granary Road Calgary, and we were thrilled with the experience.

Upon arrival, we were immediately struck by the natural beauty of the surroundings. The attraction is situated on 36 acres of land that is surrounded by stunning views of the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. We parked our car and made our way to the main entrance, where we were greeted by friendly staff who provided us with a map of the area and gave us an overview of what to expect.

We began our adventure by exploring the indoor market, which offers a variety of unique and locally sourced products. The market is filled with food stalls, artisanal shops, and educational exhibits that showcase the importance of sustainable farming practices. We were impressed with the quality and variety of the food on offer and ended up sampling a range of delicious treats, including fresh bread, gourmet cheeses, and locally produced honey.

After exploring the market, we made our way outside to the farm area, where we were greeted by friendly animals and knowledgeable staff who were eager to teach us about sustainable agriculture. We saw a wide variety of animals, including goats, pigs, cows, and llamas, and learned about the different roles they play in the ecosystem. We also had the opportunity to interact with some of the animals, which was a highlight for our children.

One of the unique features of Granary Road Calgary is the elevated walkway that winds its way through the farm area. The walkway offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and allows visitors to see the animals from a unique vantage point. We spent a lot of time exploring the walkway and taking in the stunning scenery.

After spending a few hours on the farm, we made our way to the outdoor playground area, which features a range of activities that are suitable for children of all ages. Our children had a blast exploring the playground, which features everything from zip lines to giant slides. We also took some time to relax in the picnic area, which is located next to a beautiful pond and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the farm area.

Overall, our family had a fantastic time at Granary Road Calgary. The attraction offers a unique combination of fun, education, and natural beauty that is hard to find elsewhere. We left feeling inspired and educated about sustainable farming practices and the importance of supporting local agriculture. We highly recommend Granary Road Calgary to any families looking for a fun and educational day out.

Tips For Getting Kids Ready For School On Time

admin   ·  

As a parent, getting your child ready for school on time can be a daunting task. Mornings can be hectic, and it can be challenging to get everything done on time. However, with some planning and organization, it is possible to make the mornings more manageable. Here are the five best tips to get your child ready for school on time.

1: Establish a routine

Children thrive on routines, and establishing a regular routine can help them feel more organized and prepared for the day ahead. Set a regular bedtime and wake-up time, and stick to it even on the weekends. Establish a morning routine that includes time for breakfast, getting dressed, and packing school bags. When children know what to expect, they are more likely to be prepared and ready on time.

Children thrive on routines, and establishing a regular routine can help them feel more organized and prepared for the day ahead.

David Pierre

2: Prepare the night before

Preparing for the morning the night before can save a lot of time and stress. Make sure that your child’s school bags are packed, and their clothes are laid out the night before. Encourage your child to pick out their clothes, so they feel more in control and responsible for their routine. If your child takes a packed lunch to school, prepare it the night before, so it is ready to grab and go in the morning.

3: Use visual aids

Visual aids can be helpful in getting children organized and ready for school on time. Create a visual schedule that outlines the morning routine, including what needs to be done and when. Use pictures or drawings to help younger children understand the routine. Place the schedule where your child can see it, such as on the fridge or in their bedroom.

4: Limit distractions

Mornings can be full of distractions, such as TV, video games, or toys. Limiting these distractions can help your child focus on getting ready for school. Set rules about when your child can watch TV or play games and stick to them. If your child is easily distracted, consider having a designated homework and study area free of distractions.

5: Encourage independence

Encourage your child to be independent in getting ready for school. Teach them how to get dressed and brush their teeth on their own, and gradually give them more responsibility for their morning routine. As children become more independent, they feel more confident and empowered, which can help them be more prepared and ready for school.

Getting your child ready for school on time can be challenging, but with some planning and organization, it can be manageable. Establishing a routine, preparing the night before, using visual aids, limiting distractions, and encouraging independence are all effective ways to help your child be ready for school on time. By following these tips, you can make mornings less stressful and set your child up for success in their academic and personal life. Hopefully this helps! If you have any more great tips leave them in the comments below.

Fish Creek Ice Caves, A Winter Outing For Young Families

David Pierre   ·  

If you’re looking for a family friendly outing on a mild winter day in Calgary, I highly suggest the Fish Creek Ice Caves. The Ice Caves are located in Fish Creek Provincial Park and can be accessed by parking Near Annies Cafe, Bow Bottom Trail, and walking a short distance to the Caves.

At first, you’ll walk along a paved path in an open field. Once you cross a bridge, turn right. You’ll think you’ve hit a dead-end once you’ve turned right, but if you closely inspect, you’ll see a few paths that go around the barrier fence, and they take you down along the frozen rivers edge to where the ice caves are.

The caves themselves are relatively small, but this makes them great for families with young children. The caves are easily accessible for younger kids. They can also get right up close to the frozen waterfalls, and there are a few small hills that the kids can climb up and explore. You can continue along the river’s edge, following the path for those that are feeling for a bit more of a hike. We went a little way and saw a coyote, birds, and other adventurous families. However, since we were walking with our 18-month old, we didn’t get very far and headed back to the caves area.

The best part about the outing, if you are going with young kids, is that you’ll be able to visit the caves, have a snack, get a short walk in, and be back home in time for nap time, that is, of course, if you can get your child to nap. But hopefully, the fresh air will increase the odds of a nap happening. I mean, what more could a parent ask for?