Spring Break? "Break" for who?!

Well, it may not feel like "spring is in the air"... but Spring Break is here again!  If you're not one of the lucky ones heading to some fun in the sun, it's ok!  We've got PLENTY of things for you to do right here in our own backyard.

A couple of tips from our experts to keep your kids from going stir-crazy, and to keep your sanity:

- make a calendar for the week.  Kids thrive on a little bit of structure, and like to anticipate what's coming next.  This will also save you from being asked the same questions over & over again!

- share child-minding with neighbours, family, friends, or school parent groups.  This is especially effective if you can't take the whole week off work.  

Now, for a few suggestions of what to do:

- Swimming, skating, skiing - it's the WestCoast... enjoy it!  Most rinks & pools will have expanded public schedules this week, and it's super cheap.  Less than $20 will buy you & your whole family hours of entertainment.

- Head to the Library - most libraries have special programs on this week . Reading programs, special events.  Check out their website or give them a call.

- Check out your local community centre, or YMCA.  They've got loads of day camps and drop in programs.  It may not be too late to sign up!  and typically these programs are really inexpensive compared to some private or specialty programs.

- Look at our local attractions - Science World, Vancouver Aquarium, Greater Vancouver Zoo, Vancouver Maritime Museum, Vancouver police Museum,  Burnaby Village Museum and the list goes on.  Most have family pass rates from $11-$30.  A great deal for a day of guided entertainment.

-  Check out your local regional parks - Burnaby Regional Park and Minnekhada Park in Coquitlam both have programs this week to explore nature.  

- Go to the theatre!  Spring Break kids theatre festivals are becoming a hot trend.  Evergreen Cultural Centre in Coquitlam, Shadbolt Centre for the Arts in Burnaby, Arts Club Granville Island and Carousel Theatre in Vancouver all have kids theatre shows this week, including matinees.  Great opportunity to take in bit of live entertainment.

Most importantly, HAVE FUN!!!