The first time I tried to register my kids for summer camp, I thought I was totally on top of it. On that sunny day in May, feeling ahead of the game, I learned the hard way that camp registration had opened months earlier… right in the middle of snowstorm season. By the time I got around to it, most camps were already full. It’s why Look Local’s summer camp round- up always makes the spring issue. Whether your kid dreams of sailing the high seas (ahoy matey!), exploring the great outdoors, or channeling their inner Swiftie, there’s an adventure waiting for them this summer!

Set Sail with Bronte Yacht Club
2514 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville
bhyc.on.ca

Ready to set sail? At Bronte Harbour Yacht Club (BHYC), young sailors aged 7 to 17 can jump into an amazing sailing adventure with the Learn to Sail program. Led by Sail Canada certified instructors, this camp is all about fun, skill building, and time on the water — perfect for beginners and experienced sailors alike. Campers will learn boat handling, safety, and navigation while earning nationally recognized certifications. And when they’re not sailing? Expect more fun with activities like paddleboarding on Bronte Creek or ultimate frisbee in the park.

Explore the Great Outdoors
with Conservation Halton
Conservation Halton Parks
conservationhalton.ca

If your kids can’t get enough of the great outdoors, Conservation Halton’s Ways of the Woods camps are just the thing! Designed for adventurers aged 4 to 15, these camps take place across multiple parks, offering a true “choose your own adventure” experience. With camps offering hiking, swimming, boating, and archery, there’s no shortage of action. Plus, specialized options like “Raptor Camp” or “Girls Camp,” led by and for girls, ensure every camper finds their perfect fit.

Dive into History
at Oakville Museum
8 Navy Street, Oakville
oakville.ca

Looking for a summer camp that sparks curiosity and creativity? Oakville Museum has you covered. Designed for kids ages 4 to 12, this hands-on camp lets them dive into artifacts, critters, crafts, and more through immersive activities and themed weeks. From science and nature to heritage, architecture, and design, there’s always something new to discover. And the best part? It all happens in Lakeside Park, surrounded by historic Oakville sites — the perfect setting for a summer of learning and adventure!

Animal Adventures at Oakville
& Milton Humane Society
445 Cornwall Road, Oakville
omhs.ca

Kids & Critters is so much more than a camp. It’s an experience that leaves an impact. Hosted by the Oakville & Milton Humane Society, this hands-on, animal- focused camp gives kids (ages 6 to 12) the chance to connect with shelter animals, play games, get creative with crafts, and learn from inspiring guest speakers. It’s all about fun, responsibility, and compassion. With only 12 spots per week, it fills up fast. Don’t miss out!

Get Sporty at Cedar Springs Halton
Racquet & Sports Club
960 Cumberland Avenue, Burlington
cedarspringsclub.ca

Cedar Springs Sports Camps aren’t just about sports.They’re about teamwork, coordination, and having fun while staying active! At Burlington’s top racquet sports facility, little ones enjoy a variety of activities tailored to skill, supporting growth and enjoyment. With days packed full of expert training in
tennis, squash, and badminton, plus access to the club’s indoor/outdoor waterpark, there’s no shortage of fun or excitement!

Step Up to Dance at Dancermakerz
12 Innovation Drive, Waterdown
dancemakerz.com

Calling all Swifties (and Frozen, Moana, and Barbie fans)! Dancemakerz keeps the energy high all summer with dance camps full of fun, creativity, and self-expression. From ballet to hip-hop, kids will explore different styles of dance in a supportive space. Campers get the chance to show off their moves in end-of-week performances!

Art Gallery of Burlington
1333 Lakeshore Road, Burlington
agb.life

The AGB offers a huge variety of camps for kids from the age of 4 all the way up to 18. Half day and full day options are available, and you can choose to work with clay, perfect your photography skills, work with mixed media, or choose a general artistic program. Kids should expect to expand their imaginations, try new tools and processes, and make new friends, all under the supervision of qualified instructors.

Town of Oakville
Summer Camps
Various locations across town
oakville.ca

The Town of Oakville offers a wide variety of camps for children aged 4 to 12 at various parks and locations across town. In addition to full-day week-long camps, the flexible Super Playgrounds program makes stops at parks in many neighbourhoods. Depending on your child’s interests, you can choose from programs including Arts & Culture, Hockey & Skating, Leadership, Science & Nature, and Sports & Aquatics. There truly is something for everyone.

BY ANNELIESE LAWTON

In the tale my parents spin about the “good old days,” people often moved in with their elderly parents to care for them. In my parents’ case they lived with my paternal grandfather, and later with my maternal grandmother, acting as primary caregivers until their parents’ deaths. This arrangement was only feasible because my hard-working and very loving mom was willing to take on this role.

As people in Ontario live longer (Statistics Canada, 2019, reports that women live an average of 84 years, and men 80) systems of eldercare are becoming increasingly complex to navigate. Aging in place, as my grandparents chose to do, is an attractive choice for many, and services in our community can help. For people who are done with the responsibilities of home ownership, there are a multitude of retirement residences, ranging from intimate homes to establishments resembling five-star hotels.

For those wanting to remain in their own homes, Bayshore Home Health offers services such as personal support care, nursing, housekeeping, transportation, Dementia and Alzheimer’s care, and kinesiology and physiotherapy services. “Our older adults want to age in place,” says Laura Peresan, Director of Growth and Operations, GTA West, Bayshore Home Health. “Home is where they are most comfortable and often where they want to continue with their life journey.”

Peresan has found that most older adults prefer a one-stop option. Seniors in the Halton region have access to everything from nursing, to support with showers and house cleaning, all the way to end of life palliative care.

Caring for an elderly parent in their home has many positives, such as the ability to strengthen family bonds, reduce stress for your loved one, and work with an organization to create specific support. There are also drawbacks. As my mom discovered when she was a primary caregiver, the role can be a physical and emotional strain. Caregivers often burn out, and family relationships can be fractured if one person takes on more of the care duties.

An option for many families is to find a suitable retirement residence for their loved one. Michelle Ferrara is Community Relations Manager at Queens Avenue Retirement Home, a family-oriented residence in Oakville.

Independent Seniors Apartments

LIVITA QUEENS AVENUE is a retirement community, located in a quiet residential Oakville neighbourhood, offering independent seniors suites with full kitchens, living rooms, bed and bath. Monthly rates are very competitive.

Picture yourself in an apartment with full kitchen, multiple closets, large suites and big bright windows. The utilities are included and underground parking is available. Meet new friends as you enjoy the beautiful outdoor space, amenities, activities and entertainment that make Livita Queens home. Options are available for meal plans and housekeeping. Emergency care is always accessible. Enjoy, relax and feel safe and secure.

When it comes to finding the right fit, Ferrara offers these insights:

Be realistic.
Does the residence provide what your loved one needs, now and with a view to the future?

Have paperwork and information at hand.
Do your research and bring questions to the tour or meeting

What is the general vibe you feel when walking around the residence?
Are the staff friendly and smiling? Do the residents seem happy, active and engaged?

Will the residence work financially for the long term?
If your loved one’s health declines, will another move be necessary?

Retirement residences offer peace of mind, professional care, increased safety and security, set activities, and a clear cost structure to help you budget. They are also, however, a huge shift for residents and their families. For one thing, residents might feel a loss of independence as they adjust to a new environment and new routines. As Kim Routledge, Sales and Leasing Manager at Oakville’s Vistamere Retirement Residence explains, working together will aid the transition.

“Leaving a long-time home can evoke feelings of grief and nostalgia,” Routledge says. “It  is vital for caregivers to acknowledge and support these emotions. Initially, residents may feel isolated in a new community. Caregivers can facilitate social interaction by introducing them to other residents and encouraging participation in group activities.”

When deciding whether your loved one will live at home or in a retirement residence, it is crucial to have frank discussions and not wait until there’s a crisis situation. A little planning now will make future transitions much easier for you and your family.

LOCAL LINKS

Bayshore Home Health
bayshore.ca

Halton Region Services for Older Adults
halton.ca/For-Residents/Older-Adults

Heritage Place Retirement Residence,
Burlington
heritage-place.ca

LaSalle Park Retirement
Community, Burlington
lasalleparkretirement.com

Qualicare Home Care,
Burlington
qualicare.com

Queens Avenue Retirement Home,
Oakville
livinglivita.com/oakville

The Ontario Caregiver
Organization
ontariocaregiver.ca

Vistamere Retirement Residence,
Oakville
vistamere.ca

Viva Retirement Residence,
Oakville
vivaoakville.ca

BY CYNDI INGLE

Hidden in your camera roll on your phone are thousands of precious memories. Instead of letting those photos collect digital dust, why not give them three-dimensional life by transforming them into tangible gift items? From cozy mugs to nostalgic ornaments, your favourite snapshots are waiting to be enjoyed.

Burlington family photographer Christine Murray knows photo gifts are more than just presents – they’re a way to show someone how much you care. “Whether it’s a moment frozen in time with a loved one, a reminder of a significant milestone, or even just a photo that brings a smile to their face, photo gifts have the power to evoke joy every time they’re seen or used,” says Murray.

Many of her clients love turning their photos into holiday cards. It’s a classic way to share cherished moments with friends and family! One of Murray’s favourite photo gifts was a custom photo blanket that a family ordered for grandparents. “It was such a unique way to celebrate their growing family and offer something cozy and heartfelt,” she says.

Another creative client made a series of photo ornaments for each family member. “It was a beautiful way to personalize their holiday décor and make it a tradition each year,” says Murray. If you want to take your photos off your camera roll and put them under the tree, consider these photo gift ideas:

Photo Mugs

Photo mugs are a practical yet sentimental gift, perfect for the coffee or tea lover in your life. Every sip will warm them with a happy memory or remind them of someone special. Fill the mug with hot chocolate mixes or their favourite coffee or tea blend to make the gift even sweeter.

Custom Ornaments

Holiday ornaments are a festive way to incorporate photos into your gift. You can even build a tradition by adding a new photo ornament each year.

Photo Calendar

The gift that lasts all year! A photo calendar can serve as a collection of the best moments of the year. It’s a practical and thoughtful gift.

Photo Blanket

Nothing says cozy like a soft personalized blanket. You can make a photo blanket with a large single image, or a series of photos in a collage. These make wonderful gifts for grandparents, offering warmth and comfort with a heartfelt touch.

Photo Puzzles

Photo puzzles are a fun and interactive way to turn a family portrait, a beloved pet, or a favourite vacation snapshot into a fun gift that brings people together – perfect for cozy holiday nights or quiet afternoons.

Photo Pillows

Print a beloved family photo onto a pillow that the recipient can display on their sofa or bed. This is a fun and unique way to integrate photos into everyday décor.

Custom Photo Books

A photo book is a beautiful way to create a narrative from your memories. These make perfect gifts for close family members and friends and can even be a fun DIY project that you can customize with personal captions or messages. To make your photo books even more special, buy someone a
subscription! Chatbooks offers photo book subscriptions with 4, 6 or 12 books per year, so you can share your memories all year round.

Framed Prints

Framed photo art is a timeless option and a beautiful way to keep memories alive. There are many options for turning your photos into wall art. Burlington Camera offers custom photo services and can help size photos up or down. “We create large print sizes and canvases as well as plaque mounted and float mounted photos,” says Rich Gibson, co-owner of Burlington Camera.

Photos are meant to be seen, so set those digital files free! You can share them as gifts to drink from, snuggle with, or hang on a Christmas tree. These personal keepsakes are sure to bring joy for years to come.

Where to Go Locally for Photo Gifts:

Burlington Camera, 489 Guelph Line, Burlington
Henry’s Burlington, 1250 Brant Street, Burlington
Henry’s Oakville, 2500 Hyde Park Gate, Oakville
Staples – staples.ca – multiple locations in Burlington and Oakville

Online Photo Gift Options:

Chatbooks – chatbooks.com
Mixbook – mixbook.com

Blacks – blacks.ca
Vistaprint – vistaprint.ca

By Lisa Evans

As summer fades and the back-toschool hustle begins, I’m emerging with a hefty dose of mom guilt. Despite my best intentions of running “Camp Mom” this summer, reality quickly set in. Late bedtimes, endless snacks, and far too much screen time led my kids into a spiral of dysregulation.

As a mom of three – two of whom are neurodivergent – I understand how daunting it can be to navigate the world of “fun” when inclusive spaces are often out of reach. Finding activities where all children can thrive and be themselves is more than a luxury. It’s a necessity.

In preparation for our next rainy day, I’ve done a deep dive and discovered some fantastic local programs designed with accessibility and inclusivity at their core. The following rec and culture facilities offer enriching experiences that are tailored to children’s unique needs.

Here are some of my favourites:

Triple C Farm
500 Carluke Road West, Ancaster
Triplecfarm.ca

Triple C Farm is a haven for those seeking joy and connection. Founded by Tricia and Pascal in 2013, the farm has grown into a vibrant sanctuary for both animals and people with diverse needs, including their three autistic sons. Home to goats, alpacas, bunnies, and more, Triple C Farm offers interactive experiences such as baby goat yoga and a massive petting zoo. To further foster a sense of community, Tricia and Pascal have established a volunteer program for disabled adults.

We Rock the Spectrum – Oakville
245 Wyecroft Road, Unit #3, Oakville
werockthespectrumoakville.ca

Personally vetted and adored by my very own kids, We Rock the Spectrum offers an extraordinary range of fun for children of all abilities. This sensory-safe gym creates a nurturing environment designed for learning, exploration, and sensory-friendly experiences.

What sets this play centre apart is its unique equipment, including a mini-zipline, play structure, multiple therapy swings, a rock-climbing wall, monkey bars, and a calming room for moments of overstimulation. It’s a space where children can feel at ease and truly be themselves. Whether you’re dropping in for open play, joining one of their engaging classes, or booking a party, We Rock the Spectrum provides a vibrant and inclusive experience for all.

Challenger Baseball
Oakville, Burlington & surrounding cities
Baseball.ca/challenger-baseball

Challenger Baseball is an adaptive baseball program that empowers children, youth, and adults with physical and/or cognitive disabilities. The program teaches core life skills inherent to baseball, such as teamwork and determination, in a supportive and inclusive environment. Each player is paired with an able-bodied “buddy” who assists them one-on-one, ensuring they can fully participate. In the true spirit of the game, Challenger Baseball brings joy to every participant.

Westdale Theatre
1014 King Street West, Hamilton
Thewestdale.ca

For many neurodivergent individuals and families, catching a matinee can be more challenging than it seems. Traditional movie theatres are often filled with sensory triggers like flashing lights and loud noises. For parents of children who struggle with staying still or speaking softly, it can be daunting to worry about disrupting others’ experiences.

Once a month, Westdale Theatre offers a sensory-friendly screening designed to address these concerns. Special showings feature open captioning, dimmed lights, reduced sound levels, and the absence of advertisements or trailers. Moviegoers are encouraged to move around and make themselves comfortable. While the program was initially developed for individuals on the autism spectrum, it is open to anyone who benefits from a lower-sensory environment.

The Dance Ability Movement
Milton & Mississauga
Danceabilitymovement.com

If you’re searching for a dance world without limits, the Dance Ability Movement is it! Founded by sisters Mallory and Jade Ryan, this innovative, community-driven initiative unites a dynamic team of occupational therapists, dance instructors, and other skilled professionals to offer an inclusive, exhilarating dance experience. Participants can explore a range of dance styles, from ballet and jazz to hip-hop and tap. Instructors are specially trained by The Dance Ability Movement to adapt their teaching methods and class structure to meet each student’s needs, ensuring a supportive and engaging environment.

These programs are just a glimpse into the fantastic local initiatives designed to support our children and families. While finding the perfect fit can take time, knowing these resources are available makes the journey a lot smoother.

By Annelise Lawton

Although winter days have yet to depart, many parents are already scrambling to plan for summer. As a family of two working parents and three school-aged kids (two of whom “luged” down the stairs on couch cushions yesterday), our summer days have to be carefully calculated. So, come early March, I’m researching summer camps with the intensity of an investigative journalist. To help parents jump start their own sleuthing, I’ve compiled some Look Local favourites that cover a spectrum of kids’ interests and skills.

For Kids into the Arts

KooGle Theatre 
1450 Headon Road, Second Floor, Burlington | Koogletheatre.com
Kids can be a “star” at KooGle’s musical theatre camp where they learn scenes, songs and choreography from popular musicals, including 42nd Street (ages 10 to 18), Annie (ages 7 to 11), Disney (ages 6 to 8), and Mary Poppins (ages 7 to 11). Programming is crafted and run by professional theatre artists – and husband and wife duo – Leslie and Christopher Gray. 

The CBY Academy of Performing Arts 
21 Mill Street North, Waterdown  |  Cbyacademy.com 
Held at an award-winning performing arts academy in Waterdown, CBY offers an inclusive camp experience with different themes throughout the summer. From Broadway Minis to Road Legends, there’s no shortage of fun for children ages 4 to 12. Kids will love writing music and dressing up in costume as they act, sing and dance. 

Canadian Dance Company 
2544 Bristol Circle, Oakville  |  Canadiandancecompany.com 
Whether your child is a tutu-loving toddler or a tween who can shimmy sham across a tap floor – there’s a place for them here. With weekly themes supporting recreational and competitive dancing, campers are encouraged to discover their star potential. Each camp explores different dance styles and music while inspiring creative thinking, socialization and fun. 

For Kids Who Love the Outdoors

Ways of the Woods by Conservation Halton 
Multiple locations | Conservationhalton.ca
Ways of the Woods summer camp offers a one-of-a-kind summer experience for kids. Hosted by Conservation Halton, the camp takes place at its locations across Halton, including Kelso, Mountsberg and Crawford Lake, and offers unique and diverse programming, such as Mountain Bike Camp, Waterfront Camp, Farm Camp, Construction Camp, Athletic Camp, Girls Camp and Adventure Camp. 

Camp Kandalore 
1143 Kandalore Road, Algonquin Highlands |. Kandalore.com 
For adventures and new outdoor experiences – and maybe a first time away from home? For more than 75 years, Camp Kandalore has created magical summer experiences steeped in tradition, but always fresh for kids ages 6 to 16. With more than 30 in-camp activities, campers take part in daily swim and canoe lessons as well as other fun activities of choice, from waterskiing to high ropes to archery. 

Bronte Harbour Yacht Club
2514 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville  |  Bhyc.on.ca
Ease out the sails and spend a summer on the water with Bronte Harbour Yacht Club. Its Learn-to-Sail program is for kids ages 7 to 17, and features Sail Canada certified instructors in a safe, fun and active learning environment. Sailors can achieve Sail Canada levels as they spend two to four hours on the water, and have the rest of the day open for activities, such as paddleboarding, exploring the creek, ultimate frisbee, volleyball, soccer and more.

For Kids Who Love Science

Oak Learning 
483 Dundas Street West, Oakville. |. Oaklearningcenter.com 
Oak Learning has summer fun down to a science with their hands-on STEM and Robotic camps for kids ages 6 to 13. During each week-long camp, campers learn to build and program a fully functioning robot alongside smaller science projects. The balanced day includes daily team activities, science projects, outdoor recreation, a nutritious hot lunch and snacks. 

Code Ninjas
3410 Mainway, Burlington |. 2333 Taunton Road, Oakville. |. Codeninjas.com
Technology-loving kids, ages 5 to 14, get hands-on experience in learning how to code as they create video games, and more. They also gain important skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and acquire STEM know-how in a supportive, fun environment. 

For All Interests

Town of Oakville
Various locations throughout Oakville  |  camps.oakville.ca 
The Town of Oakville offers fun and affordable summer camp options for children aged four to 12. Their HIGH FIVE® trained staff, high safety standards, and engaging summer programming set them apart. Explore a variety of safe and diverse summer camp programs to suit any interest, including arts, adventure, athletics, and more.

A “Super Playgrounds” half-day camp membership allows campers to enjoy supervised activities without the commitment of a week-long camp. Offered weekdays from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. at select park locations. One fee lets you play all summer.

Oakville Museum
8 Navy Street, Oakville  |  oakville.ca/museum
Looking for a curated summer camp experience for curious minds? Oakville Museum camps blend learning and hands-on fun with arts and crafts activities, outdoor games and nature exploration in a picturesque lakeside setting. Cultivate creativity in the garden, unravel museum mysteries, enter the enchanting world of fairy tales, and more. Full-week day camps available for ages 6-9. Half-day mini programs available for little ones aged 4-5.

Appleby College
540 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville  |  Appleby.on.ca
Kids can choose from more than 50 indoor and outdoor programs and over 220 weekly sessions that cross a variety of interests and activities. All camps have a low camper-to-instructor ratio, and include nutritious lunches and swim time. The Early Discovery program for ages 4 to 7 offers full and half-day camps and weekly themes. Campers ages 7 to 14 can choose from programs in sports and adventure, arts and media, and science and success. Leadership camps are available for participants ages 12 to 17. 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, filled with activities from trimming the tree to visiting Santa to wrapping gifts. However, all that holiday cheer comes with a price tag: according to the 2023 Holiday Outlook, Canadians plan to spend $1,347 over the holidays. 

With high inflation and ballooning food costs, families may feel the pinch this holiday season. However, you can still make it a magical time for your family without racking up additional debt. “This is a good opportunity to reflect on what your values are and what’s most important to you,” says personal finance writer, Sandy Yong. 

Make a holiday budget 

Managing spending over the holidays starts with creating a budget – ideally ahead of time. “This way it allows you to save money, so you don’t feel as much financial strain during this time of year,’’ Yong explains. “It also means you’ll be less tempted to rack up your credit card or to put your purchases on a Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) plan.”  

Creating a detailed budget will help you be mindful of your spending habits. If you’ve got kids, the bulk of your holiday budget will likely be allocated towards gifts. “However, don’t forget to include other categories such as decorations, photos with Santa, entertainment and festivities, meals, travel, and holiday attire – ugly Christmas sweaters, anyone?” says Yong.  

Spend wisely 

Creating a budget is the first step to managing finances, but the real test is following it. Whether it’s a notebook or a spreadsheet, keep track of what you are spending. 

“Having a spending limit and comparison shopping will also help to ensure that you don’t go over budget,” says Yong. “Before heading to the stores, check to see what you already own. You may find some holiday arts and crafts or attire that you stored away that you can reuse.” 

There are also plenty of free apps to help you find the best deals, whether it’s Flipp for shopping for holiday groceries, or save.ca for gifts and electronics. Yong also suggests looking for deals during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Or if you’re someone who is a last-minute shopper, you may score a great deal on early Boxing Day sales.  

If you have a large extended family, consider swapping individual gifts for a Secret Santa. Alternatively, buy a gift the whole family can enjoy – like a board game. 

Immerse yourself in the magic 

It’s tempting to want to spoil your kids over the holidays, but it’s the time you spend together that will probably matter most to your family. And those activities don’t have to break the bank. 

“Consider more affordable activities and holiday traditions such as baking cookies or going ice skating,” says Yong. Attending a carol service, hosting a holiday movie night, or packing a thermos of hot chocolate and checking out the Christmas lights in your neighbourhood are all free activities. “Ultimately, spending quality time with your loved ones and taking photos and videos of these special moments will help you create everlasting memories.”