islandparent Archives for Erika Palmer
Erika Palmer
Music, Magic & Memory-Making: Vancouver Island’s Family-Friendly Festival Scene
Outdoor concerts and festivals are a delightful way for families to connect, celebrate community and enjoy the arts. These events offer more than just...
Is Your Child Ready to Be Left Home Alone?
Leaving your kid home alone for the first time is a rite of passage—for them and for you. But how do you know if...
Overcoming the Teen Consumer Craze
Oh, the joys of parenting in the TikTok era!“But Mom,” my almost 11-year-old daughter wails, eyes wide and pleading, “Everyone has it! I'll be...
Learning Adventures at Local Farmers’ Markets
Farmers' markets aren't just about fresh veggies and homemade jam, they're bustling hubs of creativity, learning and opportunity—especially for kids with big ideas and...
The 2025 Toyota bZ4X: Your Ultimate Daily Drive, Electrified
Looking for a vehicle that makes commuting, running errands, school pickups, sports trips, and weekend getaways effortless – while saving you money on gas...
A Parent’s Guide to Children’s Vision Tests & Eyeglasses
Vision plays a big role in your child's development—from learning at school to enjoying playtime with friends. If you're wondering whether your child's vision...
Making Holiday Memories without Breaking the Bank
The holidays are all about joy, love and making memories—not maxing out your credit card! Ditch the pricey presents and embrace the magic of...
Creativity in Unexpected Places: 8 Ways Kids Show Imagination Where You Least Expect It
When we think about creativity in children, we often picture them drawing, building with blocks or even computer coding. But creativity can show up...
Swim Safe: Top Tips for Water Safety
Visiting swimming pools and playing on the beaches of our beautiful local lakes and oceans is an important part of summer for kids growing...
Portrait of a Youth Volunteer
Youth volunteer, Turquoise Chiang, is a powerhouse in our community and is hoping other youth follow in her helpful footsteps. Here is her fascinating...