November in the playroom

The playroom has been busy enjoying music circle again on Mondays from 11:30-12:00 and welcoming special guests to read stories both in our playroom and in the drop in. If anyone is interested in sharing their favorite picture books (in any language) with the children, please see Christine or Bev in the playroom or call Christine at 204-560-3148. The children have been having fun playing with a pumpkin Bev grew in her garden. It has been painted, stickered and bathed. It is amazing how the children come up with new ways to play with it every day! In addition, stumps from our old side yard at our old location have been cleaned and sealed by a volunteer and have been added to our ‘loose parts’ area and the children have been using them as lily pads, towers, tables and chairs and a whole bunch of other things. The playroom staff would like to thank the volunteers that have been putting time into our playroom. Your efforts and time have really helped us make the playroom clean, organized and welcoming to all our children and families. read more

It’s been a very busy and exciting time for the playroom. We have worked hard at bringing our favorite parts of our old playroom into our new space and taking advantage of our gorgeous new room at our new location. You may notice quite a few changes with new learning centers and play places.

In consideration of our new space we are reminding families that; if while your child is in the playroom and you need to step outside for a smoke break, please let the playroom staff know before you leave and make contact again when you come back in. Prior to your break we will need to have you fill out one quick form to give permission for us to care for your child while you are outside.

We look forward to seeing everyone at our Grand Opening!!

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist joins us and she leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. October 7th, 21st and 28th.

Cooking Class/Healthy Together

Join us as we discover ways of being healthy together! Each session includes fun games, activities, and an opportunity to cook and enjoy wholesome food together. Kids are welcome to participate! October dates are the 21st and 28th from 1:30-3:30.  Sign-up sheet available at 1:00 in the drop-in

New Hours

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am-12pm.   CLOSED for lunch 12pm-1pm.

Re-opens at 1pm-4pm, Wednesday hours 1pm-4pm.

Mental Health

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is commonly referred to as the winter blues or winter depression. People typically experience it starting in the fall and all through winter. Sunny summer days and warm weather can improve your mood, so it makes sense that the time change combined with cooler weather and shorter days can have a negative impact on your mental health.

Seasonal Affective Disorder is recognized as a type of depression and can cause increased anxiety, sadness and stress, lack of enjoyment in regular activities, feelings of isolation, mood swings, and several other symptoms that can take over your life. But there are ways to help deal with it, here are 3 ways:

1. Exercise regularly
2. Make social plans
3. Soak up the sun as often as you can! Let the light in!

Wolseley Family Place Grand opening

Our Grand Opening is October 3, 2019, it starts @ 1pm-3pm.  Come check out our new location!

There will be entertainment, speeches and media coverage!

Toasty Tips for Staying Warm in Cold Weather read more

This August the Playroom will undergo several changes. The Playroom Director, Nadine Mackenzie will be leaving for a while as she prepares to go on Maternity Leave. She will return September 2020, however rest assured she and her new baby will come and visit during that time. In the meanwhile, Christine McIntyre has been hired to take over the role as Interim Director. Please welcome her as she begins this role at Wolseley Family Place.

The Playroom is also preparing for the upcoming move to our new location at 222 Furby St. The staff is busy cleaning, organizing, and purging. We welcome your input and suggestions as we prepare for our new space.

Change can be difficult. To help minimize the stress that these changes may have on the children, the staff will, as always, continue to provide a safe and fun place for children to play and learn. Bev, the Playroom supervisor, along with Darla, Surriya and Olivia will continue to be available to support the children and their families during this time.

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist joins us and she leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. August 12th and 19th.

Cooking Class

Join us as we discover ways of being healthy together! Each session includes fun games, activities, and an opportunity to cook and enjoy wholesome food together. Kids are welcome to participate! August dates are the 12th and 19th from 1:30-3:30.

Sign-up sheet available at 1:00 in the drop-in

Mental Health First Aid Canada (MHFA)

What is a mood disorder?

At some point, everyone experiences losses, setbacks or tragedies that will lead to a normal experience of grief and sadness. People with mood disorders experience moods outside the normal range that are longer in duration with more severe symptoms.  There is no fixed time line for people to grieve.  People will move through the process of grieving with different severity of symptoms and rate.  People with mood disorders may experience distress and feel that their mood and emotions are not under their control. They suffer significant distress and impairment in social, occupational, educational or other important areas of functioning.  Extreme moods can have devastating consequences for the person, their family and society.  These consequences for the person may include financial, legal, marital, relation, employment and spiritual losses, as well as despair that could result in suicide or death.

• Why is it important for one to know MHFA and its benefits?

read more

We’re happy to share the news that Wolseley Family Place will be moving this fall, a few blocks away, to Crossways in Common (at the corner of Furby and Broadway).

We take possession of our new space at the beginning of September and will move in as soon as all the necessary work is complete.

Thank you to all the participants, staff and volunteers who gave their input and ideas to help us find a new space – we heard from you that it was a priority for us to stay nearby and to find a space where we could continue to offer our core programs, especially the playroom.

The nearby Crossways in Common space has everything we were looking for: a commercial kitchen, a large space for a playroom, ample programming and office space, accessibility – and it’s not in a basement (we’re moving to the second floor)!

We’re also excited to build new partnerships and collaborate with other organizations in the building.

We are looking forward to moving to this new home and will share the official move date and other details as soon as we can.

For more information, please contact:

Temitope Ojo, Project Assistant
204-788-8052
temi@wfpwpg.ca

It’s been a long time coming, but finally after a long cold winter and cool spring, the children have been able to head outside to our side yard. It always takes some organizing and planning to get the children ready. Shoes need to be found, sunscreen applied, if necessary, first aid backpack gathered and safety rules explained. Although once outside, all this preparation is well worth it. Children are always excited to be outside. The Playroom rules of walking feet and inside voices no longer apply. Children are now free to run, jump, shout and play. With summer just around the corner, we hope that there will be many more outside days to come.

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist joins us and she leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. July dates are the 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th.

Cooking Class

Join us as we discover ways of being healthy together! Each session includes fun games, activities, and an opportunity to cook and enjoy wholesome food together. Kids are welcome to participate! July dates are the 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th from 1:30-3:30.

Sign-up sheet available at 1:00 in the drop-in

Goodbye to Anisa!

It is with mixed emotions that we share the news that Anisa Baker, our Health Education Coordinator, will be moving on from Wolseley Family Place, to a great new opportunity. Her last day at WFP was June 28th, 2019. We will miss Anisa and wish her all the best in her next endeavor!

Welcome to New Team Members!

We are very pleased to announce some new additions to our team this summer. Welcome aboard…

• Olivia Doucet – Recreation Facilitator/ Childcare Assistant
• Temitope Ojo – Project Assistant
• Jake Tuesday – Community Support Worker
• Alice-Michelle Uwamaliya – Early Childhood Educator Assistant

Come by and say hi and meet our new WFP team members!

Co-occurring disorders

                        -Thrive

read more

It hasn’t gone unnoticed by the children in the Playroom that spring has finally sprung. Children were delighted to tell staff on those first warm days when their snow pants and other winter items were no longer needed. Children have also begun asking about the side yard. After a long cold winter, everyone is ready to head outside and enjoy the warm sunshine.   Hopefully it won’t be much longer until we can get our hands and knees dirty as we play and explore in the grass and dirt that awaits us outside.   In preparation of spring the children have begun some indoor planting: sunflowers, squash, and marigolds are some of the seeds that have been planted. We are patiently waiting until these plants begin to sprout.

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist joins us and she leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. May dates are the 6th, 13th and 27th.

Wiggle, Giggle and Munch

Wednesday mornings from 10 – 12 we have Wiggle, Giggle & Munch for children who are into movement. The morning includes physical activities, a craft, circle time and a nutritious snack. May dates are the 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th. You do not have to pre-register. Just come on the days that work for you and your family. For more information please call 204-788-8055.

Healthy Together – Happy Healthy Beginnings for Caregivers and Families

Join us as we discover ways of being healthy together! Each session includes fun games, activities, and an opportunity to cook and enjoy wholesome food together. Kids are welcome to participate! May dates are the 13th and 27th from 1:30-3:30.

Sign-up sheet available at 1:00 in the drop-in

HealthyParentingWinnipeg.ca

The WRHA published a new website with up to date health information for pregnancy to preschool. It’s written by a Public Health Nurse and is mobile friendly.  Here’s a sample of what you’ll find:

What is the difference between a sore throat and strep throat?

Sore Throat

read more

April in the Playroom

Children are great at playing. With the variety of blocks, dress-up clothes, puzzles, paints, playdough and more, the children in the Playroom are busy playing, creating, and imagining. During all this play, it is inevitable that a mess happens. This mess is an opportunity to teach children responsibility, respect, and helps to foster independence. For a child, cleaning up a large mess can be overwhelming and quite daunting. In fact, it is not a reasonable expectation that they do it themselves.   By breaking up a large job into several smaller parts, we can help children feel more confident in their abilities to contribute to the clean-up time. Clean-up time is not just limited to picking up the toys. In fact, many of the children rather enjoy being given big jobs. We have children who enjoy loading the dishwasher, sweeping the floor, wiping the table, and even folding the laundry.  And if you haven’t noticed, those are jobs that children can help with at home as well.

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist joins us and she leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. April dates are the 1st, 8th, 15th and 29th.

Wiggle, Giggle and Munch

Wednesday mornings from 10 – 12 we have Wiggle, Giggle & Munch for children who are into movement. The morning includes physical activities, a craft, circle time and a nutritious snack. April dates are the 10th, 17th and 24th. You do not have to pre-register. Just come on the days that work for you and your family. For more information please call 204-788-8055.

Healthy Together

Happy Healthy Beginnings for Caregivers and Families

Join us as we discover ways of being healthy together! Each session includes fun games, activities, and an opportunity to cook and enjoy wholesome food together. Kids are welcome to participate! April dates are the 8th and 29th from 1:30-3:30.  Sign-up sheet available at 1:00 in the drop-in

Self-Compassion

Definition of self-compassion By Dr. Kristin Neff

Having compassion for oneself is really no different than having compassion for others. Think about what the experience of compassion feels like. First, to have compassion for others you must notice that they are suffering. If you ignore that homeless person on the street, you can’t feel compassion for how difficult his or her experience is. Second, compassion involves feeling moved by others’ suffering so that your heart responds to their pain (the word compassion literally means to “suffer with”). When this occurs, you feel warmth, caring, and the desire to help the suffering person in some way. Having compassion also means that you offer understanding and kindness to others when they fail or make mistakes, rather than judging them harshly. Finally, when you feel compassion for another (rather than mere pity), it means that you realize that suffering, failure, and imperfection is part of the shared human experience.

Self-compassion involves acting the same way towards yourself when you are having a difficult time, fail, or notice something you don’t like about yourself. Instead of just ignoring your pain with a “stiff upper lip” mentality, you stop to tell yourself “this is really difficult right now”, how can I comfort and care for myself in this moment? Instead of mercilessly judging and criticizing yourself for various inadequacies or shortcomings, self-compassion means you are kind and understanding when confronted with personal failings – after all, who ever said you were supposed to be perfect? You may try to change in ways that allow you to be more healthy and happy, but this is done because you care about yourself, not because you are worthless or unacceptable as you are. Perhaps more importantly, having compassion for yourself means that you honour and accept your humanness. Things will not always go the way you want them to. You will encounter frustrations, losses will occur, you will make mistakes, bump up against your limitations, fall short of your ideals. This is the human condition, a reality shared by all of us. The more you open your heart to this reality instead of constantly fighting against it, the more you will be able to feel compassion for yourself and all your fellow humans in the experience of life.

As Valentine’s Day celebrations made their way into the Playroom, the topic of love became a focus of conversation. As a few children sat around the table, decorating hearts and other items, the question “Who do you love?” was asked. The initial answer the children was ‘my mom’ and ‘my dad’. Other family members were soon included, as well as other important people in their lives. This conversation expanded into what other things the children love and perhaps more importantly why they love the people they do. It was interesting to hear the responses include such reasons as: my mom is the best cook; dad likes to play hide-n-seek; and because she loves me. These early relationships that children form with people are integral to their healthy growth and development. When children feel safe and loved they can begin to learn and grow.

And dear parent, remember your children love you and appreciate all you do for them – even if they can’t say it with words.

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist joins us and she leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. March dates are the 4th, 11th, 18st and 25th.

Wiggle, Giggle and Munch

Wednesday mornings from 10 – 12 we have Wiggle, Giggle & Munch for children who are into movement. The morning includes physical activities, a craft, circle time and a nutritious snack. March dates are the 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th. You do not have to pre-register. Just come on the days that work for you and your family. For more information please call us at 204-788-8055.

Healthy Together – Happy Healthy Beginnings For Caregivers and Families.

Join us as we discover ways of being healthy together! Each session includes fun games, activities, and an opportunity to cook and enjoy wholesome food together. Kids welcome to participate! March dates are the 11th and 18th from 1:30-3:30.

Sign-up sheet available at 1:00 in the drop-in

Why Meditate?

It reduces stress (especially in people with very high stress), controls anxiety, and promotes emotional health, including improving depression and increasing optimism. Some types can help you ‘know yourself,’ which is the starting point for making other changes. It’s like weight-lifting for your attention span, so you’re better able to direct and maintain your focus, and it increases memory. Some forms generate kindness towards yourself and others. It helps control cravings, which may fight addictions. It improves sleep, decreases blood pressure, and helps control pain. (For more details and research links, check here: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/12-benefits-of-meditation#section13 )

 Meditation is not a magic pill, it takes practice and might make you more aware of difficult sensations at first. It’s really normal to get distracted – success is noticing that it happened! It also won’t fix all your problems. It’s a tool that’s available, along with many others (your doctor, counsellor, community supports…), that can move these things in the direction you want them to go.

 A lot of people find it easier to mediate in a group, so we’re offering space Friday mornings at 9:30am, while you’re waiting for breakfast club. Come try it out, or ask Anisa questions.

2019 Winter / Spring Series Of The New Realities Workshops read more

As much as the Playroom and children would enjoy playing outside, the challenges of winter often prevents this from happening. Thankfully to the creative thinking of staff, the children were able to experience some outdoor fun, indoors. Having collected a large bin of snow, the children gathered round the table and were eager to begin to play.   With mitts available to keep hands warm, the children were provided spoons for digging as well as eyedroppers and food colouring with water. Using these items, the children were able to explore the different properties of snow. Observations were made as the children watched the snow change as they mixed the different colours together. Several snow-people were made and eventually some animals made their way into the snow for the children to bury. The children had fun as they dug them out and played in the snow.

Thank you to Assiniboine Credit Union

We want to give a big shout out to Assiniboine Credit Union for sponsoring our annual community trip to Fort Whyte Alive. We had a winter wonderland experience in the snow with tobogganing, seeing the bison,

story-telling in the teepee and lots more. Thanks ACU for the chance to experience a Manitoba winter at its best.

Wiggle, Giggle and Munch

Wednesday mornings from 10 – 12 we have Wiggle, Giggle & Munch for children who are into movement. The morning includes physical activities, a craft, circle time and a nutritious snack. February dates are the 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th. You do not have to pre-register. Just come on the days that work for you and your family. For more information please call us at 204-788-8055.

Liz Gilbert’s Letter to Fear: 

(from Elizabeth Gilbert’s 2015 book, “Big Magic”)

“Dearest Fear,

Creativity and I are about to go on a road trip. I understand that you’ll be joining us – because you always do.

I acknowledge that you believe you have an important job to do in my life and you take your job seriously.

Apparently your job is to induce complete panic in me whenever I’m about to do something interesting – and, may I say, you are superb at your job.

So by all means, keep doing your job, if you feel you must. But I will also be doing my job on this road trip, which is to work hard and stay focused. And creativity will be doing its job, which is to remain stimulating and inspiring. There’s plenty of room in the vehicle for all of us, so make yourself at home, but understand: Creativity and I are the only ones who will be making any decisions along the way.

I recognize and respect that you are part of this family, and so I will never exclude you from our activities, but still – your suggestions will never be followed. You’re allowed to have a seat, and you’re allowed to have a voice, but you are not allowed to have a vote. You are not allowed to touch the road maps; you are not allowed to suggest detours; you’re not allowed to fiddle with the temperature. Dude, you’re not even allowed to choose the friggin’ snacks!

But above all else, my dear old familiar friend, you are absolutely forbidden to drive.

Then we head off together – me and creativity and fear – side by side by side forever, advancing once more into the terrifying but marvelous terrain of unknown outcome.”

Healthy Together

Join us as we discover ways of being healthy together! Each session includes fun games, activities, and an opportunity to cook and enjoy wholesome food together. Kids welcome to participate! February dates are the 4th and 25th from 1:30-3:30.

Sign-up sheet available at 1:00 in the drop-in

Art is an activity that is presented to the children on a daily basis. In the Playroom, we strive to offer children more process-based art rather than product-based art. This allows children the opportunity to create and explore the various materials as they desire, rather than following a specific plan and outcome.   Recently an art activity was set-up which involved water with food colouring, mini pipettes and paper towels. It was a simple activity, but nevertheless, piqued the interest of the children.   Children sat fascinated as they squeezed the pipette and the colours soon began to blend and bleed onto the paper towel. Observations were made as the different colours were created as they overlapped with one another. Also it seemed, despite how much water was squeezed onto the paper towel, it never broke the edge. The children were entertained for much of the morning and numerous tie-dyed pictures were created.

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist joins us and she leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. January dates are the 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th.

Wiggle, Giggle and Munch

Wednesday mornings from 10 – 12 we have Wiggle, Giggle & Munch for children who are into movement. The morning includes physical activities, a craft, circle time and a nutritious snack. January dates are the 16th, 23rd and 27th. You do not have to pre-register. Just come on the days that work for you and your family. For more information please call us at 204-788-8055.

Healthy Together

Join us as we discover ways of being healthy together! Each session includes fun games, activities, and an opportunity to cook and enjoy wholesome food together. Kids welcome to participate!

Dates: January 7th and 21st

Time: 1:30-3:30

Location: Wolseley Family Place

To Register: Sign-up sheet available at 1:00 in the drop-in

2019 Winter / Spring Series Of The New Realities Workshops

Please see below for some basic information about the workshop we offer.

All workshops run from 9:00 am – 12:00 noon and are held here at Wolseley Family Place.

Conquering Conflict

(8 sessions including Conflict, Anger and Other Emotions, Communication)

Tuesday mornings from January 29th to March 19th

Being Me

(8 sessions including Identity, Self-Perception, Body Image, Assertiveness)

Thursday mornings from January 31st to March 21st

Sex, Drugs and Rock and Roll

(6 sessions including Relationship Skills, Sexual Awareness, Inter-Connection of Sex and Substance Use, and Romance)

Tuesday mornings from April 2nd to May 7th

Fine Lines

(6 sessions including Boundaries, Trust, Guilt, Shame, Blame, Resentment, Forgiveness)

Thursday mornings from April 4th to May 9th

Workshops are free of charge. Coffee, tea, water and snacks are provided. Please let us know if you need childcare when you register.

Please call Melissa at 204-788-8057 to register or if you have any questions.

Speech and Language Pathology

The WRHA provides free speech-language pathology support for pre-school children. Lisa Fehr is based out of ACCESS Downtown and will be visiting our centre Tuesdays 1:30-3pm Jan 22, Jan 29, and Feb 5. She will spend time in the playroom, model ways to encourage speech development (in any home language), and answer parents’ questions about what’s typical and when more support could be useful. Common concerns include stuttering, lisps, or having trouble making certain sounds and support can help make sure your child is understood as they grow up. Outside these dates, you can always access the Children’s Therapy Initiative by talking to your health-care provider or calling (204) 258-6550.

December in the Playroom

The climber is a large part of the playroom.  Children can often be seen climbing up and down the stairs and sliding down the slide.  But every so often, the piece of equipment becomes something more.  Decorations can be seen hanging from the branches with steamers woven through the wooden bars.  Mats, scarves and blankets are used to build forts underneath creating a quiet space.   And recently many children are using the structure to play with their toys.  Using baskets, bags and strollers to carry the many items across the room, children are then gathering on top, beneath and around the climber to play.  Picnics are held, babies are cared for, trains, cars and other vehicles are driven up and down the slide, and emergencies are resolved.   Cats and hats have also been seen hanging from the branches.  It is fascinating to watch as children’s play evolves overtime. As staff we will continue to observe and further expand upon their interests – thus continuing the learning and play.

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist joins us and she leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. December dates are the 3rd, 10th and 17th.

Wiggle, Giggle and Munch

Wednesday mornings from 10 – 12 we have Wiggle, Giggle & Munch for children who are into movement. The morning includes physical activities, a craft, circle time and a nutritious snack. December date is the 5th. All our programs are run on a drop-in basis. You do not have to pre-register. Just come on the days that work for you and your family.  For more information please call us at 204-788-8055.

Accessibility Policy

Wolseley Family Place has recently adopted an Accessibility Policy. This policy will help our programs and services to be more accessible to people of all abilities, and will help us comply with the Accessibility Standard for Customer Service under The Accessibility for Manitobans Act.  To see our policy, you can ask for a copy at reception, or email read more

The children recently re-discovered an air vent at the top of the climber. Rather than pushing air out, this vent sucks air in. The children were delighted when silk flowers, streamers and other small light items were sucked up and caught on the vent. It was required that the papers were tossed high enough in order for the suction to grab them.   Children were not always successful on their first attempt; however with some creative problem solving and determination, the children were able to overcome this obstacle. The children were seen jumping, using varying lengths of streamers and soliciting the help of staff. One child also grabbed a small straw broom and used it to sweep off those pieces – thus allowing the process to be repeated. This impromptu activity highlights the curiosity and imagination of children. And best of all, no batteries required.

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist joins us and she leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. November dates are the 5th, 19th and 26th.

Wiggle, Giggle and Munch

Wednesday mornings from 10 – 12 we have Wiggle, Giggle & Munch for children who are into movement. The morning includes physical activities, a craft, circle time and a nutritious snack. November dates are the 7th, 14th, 21st and 28. All our programs are run on a drop-in basis. You do not have to pre-register. Just come on the days that work for you and your family. For more information, Please call us at 204-788-8055.

Triple P – Parenting Tweens & Young Teens

Date: November 15th, 22nd and 29th

Time: Thursdays 7:00-8:30

Location: Wolseley Family Place

Ready or not, your kids are growing up! They are changing and facing new challenges.  How can we bring out the best in them?  Let’s talk about what we can do as parents to nurture their development into teen life.  Please call 204-788-8055 or email parenting@wfpwpg.ca to register.

Healthy Together, Happy Healthy Beginnings For Caregivers and Families.

Join us as we discover ways of being healthy together! Each session includes fun games, activities, and an opportunity to cook and enjoy wholesome food together.

Dates: November 5th and 19th

Time: 1:30-3:30

Location: Wolseley Family Place

To Register: Sign-up sheet available at 1:00

Mom’s Coffee Group

Date: November 15th

Time: 11:00-12:00

Location: Wolseley Family Place

Just drop-in

November is Family Violence Prevention Month at Wolseley Family Place read more

A staff member recently brought a pumpkin from her garden for the children to explore. What seems like a simple item, has provided much inspiration and play for the children.  Here’s what the children have been doing.

The children can been seen carrying the pumpkin around. Each day it seems to appear in a new area of the playroom.  Even the little ones are careful to hold it tightly and not drop it.

The pumpkin has been painted and then washed numerous times. This is an activity that the children thoroughly enjoy.

A few children have used the pumpkin for still-life drawings. They have captured the lines, stem, shape and coloring of the pumpkin.

Talk about carving the pumpkin and jack-o-lanterns have also followed. But for now it’s still in one piece.   Hopefully, soon we can enjoy the taste.  Pumpkin pie anyone?

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist joins us and she leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. October dates are the 1st, 15th, 22nd and 29th.

Wiggle, Giggle and Munch

Wednesday mornings from 10 – 12 we have Wiggle, Giggle & Munch for children who are into movement. The morning includes physical activities, a craft, circle time and a nutritious snack. October dates are the 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st. All our programs are run on a drop-in basis. You do not have to pre-register. Just come on the days that work for you and your family. For more information, Please call us at 204-788-8055.

Breast Cancer Q&A

Friday, October 26 from 11am-noon

Lori Santoro, Patient & Family Educator from the Breast & Gyne Cancer Centre of Hope will be in the Drop-in to answer questions for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Happy Healthy Beginnings For Caregivers and Families.

 Join us as we discover ways of being healthy together! Each session includes fun games, activities, and an opportunity to cook and enjoy wholesome food together.

Dates: October 15 and 29

Time: 1:30-3:30

Location: Wolseley Family Place

To Register: Sign-up sheet available at 1:00 in the drop-in

Coffee with City Council Candidates

We will be having city council candidates for the Fort Rouge East Fort Garry riding come visit the drop-in throughout the month! Feel free to ask them questions about what they want to do for you and your community.

October 9th @ 9:30 am Bryanna Spina

October 9th @ 1:00 pm Stephanie Meilleur

October 11th @ 9:30 am Lisa Naylor – School Trustee for ward 4

October 12th @ 11 am Michael Thompson

Voting & Elections Q&A

Have questions about the upcoming election?

Where do I vote? How do I vote? Can I vote? What is a city councilor? What does the mayor do? What is a school trustee? Who are the candidates in my area?

Have your questions answered Wednesday October 17th @ 1:30 pm in the drop in”

This summer the playroom has seen many children come to play.  Most afternoons the playroom is at capacity with infants, toddlers and preschoolers abound.  With such large numbers, children are learning to compromise and negotiate play.  Each child may have their favorite toy, activity and even staff member, but with the need to share these items, the children are developing patience and understanding.  It may be hard at times, but with the gentle care and reminders from staff and even other children, we are all learning to play safely and happily together.

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist joins us and she leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories.  Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise.  September dates are the 10th, 17th and 24th.

Wiggle, Giggle and Munch

Wednesday mornings from 10 – 12 we have Wiggle, Giggle & Munch for children who are into movement.  The morning includes physical activities, a craft, circle time and a nutritious snack.  September dates are the 19th and 26th.  All our programs are run on a drop-in basis.  You do not have to pre-register.  Just come on the days that work for you and your family.  For more information,

Please call us at 204-788-8055.

Back to school is just around the corner!

Some Tips for Parents at Back-To-School Time (adapted from “Back to School: Transitioning Your Family From Summer to School by Bethany Hardy from pbs.org):

read more

August in the Playroom

A few things happening in the playroom:

We welcomed back our summer student, Maryam, from last year. We are fortunate to have her spend the summer again with us and the children. Her energy and enthusiasm for children and life is contagious.

Our fish tank is home to two new sucker fish. They are still quite small, but will help to keep our tank clean.

Our garden is in bloom and the children have been more than willing to help with the watering and weeding. While out in the side yard, the children have also been busy digging holes in their dirt garden, building sand castles and mountains, balancing on the climbing logs and riding on the push cars. While the warm weather is here, we try to spend some time outdoors, every day.

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist joins us and she leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. August dates are the 13th, 20th and 27th.

Nobody’s Perfect September 19–October 17, 1:30-3:00

Nobody’s Perfect is a parenting support group for parents of pre-school aged children. Using a sharing circle format parents get together to talk about the stresses of parenting, children’s health, behavioural issues and how to encourage learning.

Please be aware there may be changes in the schedule or order of classes.

Child care is available on site. Please let us know at time of registration if you will need a spot for your child in the Playroom.  Please call 204-788-8055 or email parenting@wfpwpg.ca to register.

2018 Fall / Winter Series Of The New Realities Workshops

There are still some openings for the Fall / Winter series of New Realities workshops.  Please see below some basic information about the workshops we offer.

All workshops run from 9:00 am – 12:00 noon and are held here at Wolseley Family Place.

Conquering Conflict

(8 sessions including Conflict, Anger and Other Emotions, Communication)

Tuesday mornings from September 11th to October 30st

Being Me

(8 sessions including Identity, Self-Perception, Body Image, Assertiveness)

Thursday mornings from September 13th to November 1st

Sex, Drugs and Rock and Roll

(6 sessions including Relationship Skills, Sexual Awareness, Inter-Connection of Sex and Substance Use, and Romance)

Tuesday mornings from November 6th to December 11th

Fine Lines

(6 sessions including Boundaries, Trust, Guilt, Shame, Blame, Resentment, Forgiveness)

Thursday mornings from November 8th to December 13th

Workshops are free of charge and are for both women and men.

Coffee, tea, water and snacks are provided.

Please let us know if you need childcare when you register.

Please call Melissa at 204-788-8057 to register or if you have any questions.  read more

With summer holidays now in full swing, the playroom is likely to get busier. Just a reminder to parents, the playroom is for children three months to six years of age. If the room permits, school-aged children may come in. Respite is not available in the summer, however, will resume again in September. Throughout the summer months the playroom will be hosting a few family fun events. Keep your eyes posted for these upcoming events. Lastly, we have some sad news from our fish tank. Our large black fish, which had been part of the playroom for numerous years, has passed away. One morning a child noticed that the fish had died. A mini discussion regarding the cycle of life followed this discovery. His suggestion was to feed it to the sharks. With no sharks available, staff had to scoop it out. This fish normally would hide in the back throughout the day, however, occasionally it would come out to the excitement of the children. Its presence will be missed.

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist joins us and she leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. July’s dates are the 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th.

Cooking Class

Would you like to learn more about food and discover new ways of cooking for you and your family? If you are a parent of children under 6, come and join us on July 17th and 31st, 2018 @ 1:30-3:00 (sign-up sheet will be out at 1pm.)

New Executive Director

We would like to welcome Emma Fineblit to Wolseley Family Place as our new Executive Director. Emma comes to us with lots of community experience and a heart for West Broadway. Feel free to come in and introduce yourself to her and make her feel welcome. We are really looking forward to working together to keep Wolseley Family Place a vibrant resource in the neighborhood.

How to relate to a person with depression – Centre for Mental health and Addition

Family members often do not know how to talk to a person who is depressed. They may be afraid to ask too many questions and inadvertently upset their loved one. At the same time, they do not want the ill person to feel that they are not interested or are avoid­ing him or her.

Try to be as supportive, understanding and patient as possible. Just recognizing that depression is an illness can help your relative to feel less guilty about his or her impaired functioning.

Tips for communication

read more

Something New for Parents

What: Parent’s Coffee/Tea Time &Treats

When:  Monday mornings (before music circle)

Thursday mornings (10:30-11:30 am)

 Where: The Big Comfy Couches in the Drop In

Come and Relax!

May in the Playroom

After a long and cold winter, the children in the playroom have finally been able to go outside to the side yard to play.  As a drop-in, it can be challenging to gather a group to head outdoors.  There are shoes and jackets to find, bags to pack and children to herd.  But despite the time and effort it seems to take to gather everything and everyone, the benefits of outdoor play outweighs any of these challenges.  While outside, children have the opportunity to expend some of their energies.  Running, shouting and general silliness is now encouraged.  Looking for bugs, playing with the dirt and sand, and simply watching the clouds and birds go by are just some of the activities that the children enjoy.  As the weather continues to warm up, we hope to spend more and more time in our side yard.  Outdoor play is good for the mind, body, and spirit.

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist comes and leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. May dates are the 7th, 14th, and 28th.

Wiggle, Giggle and Munch

Wednesday mornings from 10 – 12 we have Wiggle, Giggle & Munch for children who are into movement. The morning includes physical activities, a craft, circle time and a nutritious snack. May dates are the 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th. All our programs are run on a drop-in basis. You do not have to pre-register. Just come on the days that work for you and your family. For more information, please call us at 204-788-8055.

Did you know that more children are developing type 2 Diabetes? (Diabetes Canada, 2018)

Some risk factors include:

read more

Talk of birthdays has been a popular topic lately and with this naturally comes the need to plan for a party. A request by a child to decorate for the party soon had parts of the playroom decorated with streamers, banners and posters. Party plates and napkins were also provided for the children to use and “cake” was served. The next day birthday songs were sung and the children wrapped presents for each other. By following the interests of the children, the Playroom was able to facilitate play that all children could participate and learn and play together. A fun time was had by all!

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist comes and leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. April dates are the 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th.

Wiggle, Giggle and Munch

Wednesday mornings from 10 – 12 we have Wiggle, Giggle & Munch for children who are into movement. The morning includes physical activities, a craft, circle time and a nutritious snack. April dates are the 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th. All our programs are run on a drop-in basis. You do not have to pre-register. Just come on the days that work for you and your family.  For more information, Please call us at 204-788-8055.

April is oral health month. Join us for fun learning activities all month long. read more

In the past month, the Playroom has seen a number of changes. Sadly, we had to say good-bye to Senta as she moves forward with her career. She will be missed. Thankfully, the Playroom has been able to welcome both Nadia and Jose-Ann to the team. Although there are new faces and changes to the Playroom, the care and attention that the children receive never falters. These relationships, both old and new, that the children form with the staff are important as they contribute to their sense of security and trust. When children can feel secure in their attachments, they can focus on the important job of learning and growing, which is of course what the Playroom is all about.

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist comes and leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. March dates are the 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th.

Wiggle, Giggle and Munch

Wednesday mornings from 10 – 12 we have Wiggle, Giggle & Munch for children who are into movement. The morning includes physical activities, a craft, circle time and a nutritious snack. March dates are the 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th. All our programs are run on a drop-in basis. You do not have to pre-register. Just come on the days that work for you and your family. For more information, Please call us at 204-788-8055.

Help your child’s teeth grow strong and healthy! (Source: American & Canadian Dental Associations)

At birth people usually have 20 baby (primary) teeth, which start to come in (erupt) at about 6 months of age. They fall out (shed) at various times throughout childhood. By age 21, all 32 of the permanent teeth have usually erupted.

Things you can do for a healthy smile:

read more

Lately the children in the playroom have become interested in doing yoga.  At first it was with a few poses on a poster that the children would perform.  Then a yoga book was brought out to try some more.  And lastly, the SMART board has been utilized as children watch a yoga video as they follow along with the story and accompanying poses.  This interest in yoga has further increased the children’s awareness of their bodies and health and well-being.  Learning to breathe mindfully, feeling their heartbeats, and conversations about wellness have stemmed from these activities.

Music Circle

On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist comes and leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. February dates are the 5th, 12th and 26th.

Wiggle, Giggle and Munch

Wednesday mornings from 10 – 12 we have Wiggle, Giggle & Munch for children who are into movement. The morning includes physical activities, a craft, circle time and a nutritious snack. February dates are the 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th. All our programs are run on a drop-in basis. You do not have to pre-register. Just come on the days that work for you and your family. For more information, Please call us at 204-788-8055.

Did you know?

Heart Disease is one of the leading killers of both men and women in Canada and around the world.

 The most common heart attack sign is chest pain or discomfort; however, women can experience a heart attack without chest pressure. They may experience:

• shortness of breath
• nausea or vomiting
• pressure or pain in the arms, back, stomach, neck or jaw
• dizziness, lightheadedness or sweating
• extreme fatigue.

People with the following heritage have a higher risk of heart disease because they are more likely to have high blood pressure, diabetes and other risk factors:

• First Nations, Metis and Inuit people
• South Asian, Caribbean, African heritage

(have risk factors at a younger age)

 If you have any of these signs: