GBK_Fall2023_Web

A FREE MAGAZINE FOR 

PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS 

FALL 2023 • Volume 13 Issue 3 • greybrucekids.com 

skilled 

trades 

Huge potential for 

future workforce 

ALCOHOL 

Be prepared when talking 

about teenage drinking 

FREE!

FROM THE PUBLISHER 

It’s Pumpkin Spice season! 

Pumpkin Spice is my season. No doubt about it, there’s no time I love more than 

fall. Warm September (and hopefully October!) days, cool mornings and crisp 

nights – everything smells fresh but also nostalgic at the same time. The kids are back 

in school (yeah!), sweaters and leggings come out and warm comfort meals take over 

for barbecues. 

If every day could be the ideal fall sunny September day, I would be a happy person! 

This marks our 12th fall issue of Grey-Bruce Kids! It’s hard to believe that when we 

published our first fall issue, my youngest daughter was two and is now going into 

Grade 8, while our oldest was in Kindergarten and now is behind the wheel! 

Every once in a while, I like to re-introduce our family to our readers, as Grey-Bruce 

Kids is a true, small, family-based company, not a big corporation. Our family works 

together – from writing, editing, selling advertising, and distribution to having the kids 

do some heavy lifting by loading magazines into my SUV and running the house at 

deadline time. 

There always seems to be topics that parents want to know about and we’re now 

informing a second generation of parents since we started publishing! In this issue, 

Grey Bruce Public Health shares the updated guidelines for drinking alcohol and how 

to talk to your kids about safe choices. 

The Nuclear Innovation Institute writes about the growing need for skilled trades, 

especially in our area, and how we can encourage curiousity about these career choices 

in our children. 

Kincardine resident Matt Minty, a qualifying psychotherapist, shares tips for 

maintaining your mental health, even in trying times, while Esperanza Eusbio from the 

Yoga Barn writes about the art of letting go. 

Finally, ActivEars Hearing Centres provide their expertise about hearing health for the 

entire family. 

Thank you to our readers, writers, advertisers 

and distributors – I hope you enjoy Pumpkin 

Spice season this year as much I do! 

Amy Irwin, Publisher 

CONTENTS 

4 Alcohol 

8 Skilled trades 

12 Mental health tips 

16 Hearing health 

24 Art of letting go 

26 Resources 

30 Recipes 

Layne, Amy, Jace and Dwight 

Irwin. 

FALL 2023 

Publisher 

Amy Irwin 

amy@greybrucekids.com 

Magazine Design 

Becky Grebenjak 

Advertising inquiries 

amy@greybrucekids.com 

Grey-Bruce Kids welcomes your feedback. 

EMAIL amy@greybrucekids.com 

PHONE 519-524-0101 

MAIL P.O. Box 287, Ripley, ON N0G 2R0 

Grey-Bruce Kids is distributed for free in Grey and 

Bruce counties, and is published each March, June, 

September and December. Distribution of this 

publication does not constitute endorsement of 

information, products or services by Grey-Bruce Kids, 

its writers or advertisers. Viewpoints of contributors 

and advertisers are not necessarily those of the 

Publisher. Grey-Bruce Kids reserves the right to edit, 

reject or comment on all material and advertising 

contributed. No portion of Grey-Bruce Kids may be 

reproduced without the written permission of the 

Publisher.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS 

ALCOHOL 

EDUCATION IS KEY WHEN TALKING TO YOUR KIDS 

BY BAILEY RESSLER 

4 GREY-BRUCE KIDS • FALL 2023

Being a parent can be tough. While we try to do everything in 

our power to protect our children and keep them safe, there 

are many outside factors, pressures, and influences that can have 

significant and potentially lasting impacts on our kids’ lives. 

Perhaps you feel the need to protect them with bubble wrap 

before sending them off to school, sleepovers, or – for tweens 

and teens – parties. However, the best way to keep our kids safe 

and protected is to educate them. 

Grey Bruce Public Health has written before in this space about 

the potential dangers of opioids and illicit street drugs, the risks 

of unprotected sex and the importance of consent, and the 

health impacts of vaping. The key takeaway from each of these 

articles has been the same – parents and guardians can play a 

pivotal role in safeguarding their children by talking with them 

early, often, and openly about potential health risks. The same 

is true when it comes to talking with our kids about alcohol and 

teen drinking. 

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW 

With everything youth are exposed to in today’s technologically 

overwhelming world, it’s worth noting that alcohol is the most 

used substance in Canada and the substance that most youth in 

Grades 7 to 12 will try first. They may be exposed to drinking at 

home, at parties or online. 

They may believe they need to use alcohol to help deal with 

stress or anxiety, or to help them relax. Whatever the reason, 

young people need to know that the younger they are when they 

begin to drink, the higher the risk for negative health outcomes 

related to alcohol consumption as they age. 

Alcohol – also known as ethanol or ethyl alcohol – is a legal 

substance that is present at varying levels in beverages like 

wine, beer, and spirits. In Ontario, the legal drinking age is 19. 

Alcohol is known for its psychoactive characteristics. In Canada, 

alcohol is the leading risk factor for premature death, disease, 

and disability. 

There are a variety of short- and long-term effects associated 

with alcohol consumption. Short-term effects can include an 

increased risk of violence, injury, and alcohol poisoning. Longterm 

effects may include alcohol dependence, stroke, disease of 

the heart or liver, mental illness, and cancer. 

Alcohol is also a depressant, which can slow the functioning of 

the central nervous system, which includes the brain. 

CHANGES TO ALCOHOL GUIDANCE 

This year marked a significant milestone in the evolving 

guidance on alcohol consumption when the Canadian Centre 

of Substance Use and Addiction released Canada’s Guidance on 

Alcohol and Health, which provides evidence-based advice on 

alcohol to support people in making informed decisions about 

their health. The new guidance replaces Canada’s Low-Risk 

Alcohol Drinking Guidelines, which were issued back in 2011. 

The new guidance highlights a continuum of risk for consuming 

alcohol and shines a light on the link between alcohol 

consumption and an increased risk for cancer and other negative 

outcomes. 

Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health measures the risk 

associated with how many standard drinks a person consumes 

each week. The guidance notes that no matter where you are 

on the continuum, for your health, less alcohol is better. It 

also states that consuming more than two standard drinks per 

occasion is associated with an increased risk of harm to self and 

others, including injuries and violence. 

greybrucekids.com • 5

and other effects may also be apparent, such as slow reflexes, 

impaired attention, slurred speech, blurred vision, difficulties 

walking, and diminished muscle control. 

Individuals who become severely intoxicated may experience a 

“blackout,” which can result in memory loss. There is also a risk 

of alcohol poisoning, vomiting, coma, and death. 

The updated guidance says the risk of adverse outcomes from 

alcohol consumption is greater for youth than adults, even when 

the same number of drinks are consumed. 

ALCOHOL AND YOUTH 

Alcohol consumption presents a risk for everyone, but young 

people encounter different risks. The parts of the brain that are 

involved with emotion, decision-making, motivation, and risktaking 

behaviour are not fully developed until a person reaches 

their mid-20s. Because of this, young people are particularly 

vulnerable to the effects of alcohol. There is an increased risk 

of injury, alcohol poisoning, and motor vehicle collisions. 

Impaired driving remains an issue in Canada; in drivers aged 16 

to 25, almost 50 per cent of collisions involve drug or alcohol 

impairment. 

Young people may also be more vulnerable to assaults and 

mental health issues. Long-term effects of excessive alcohol use 

can also include learning and memory problems, a decline in 

academic performance, as well as the previously mentioned risks 

for chronic disease. 

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS 

There are many effects that individuals may experience 

when they use alcohol, such as reduced inhibition, impaired 

judgement, and redness or flushed skin. As more alcohol 

is consumed, these effects may become more pronounced 

THE ALCOHOL DISCUSSION 

Many parents don’t realize they are their child’s most important 

role model and what is said and taught about drugs and 

alcohol can make a big difference in their life. Having open 

and honest conversations about substances helps to strengthen 

your relationship and increase communication. In addition to a 

strong relationship with their parents, there are other factors that 

may increase or decrease your teen’s risk of experimenting with 

alcohol. These factors include: 

• Involvement in their community. 

• Positive relationships with peers. 

• Strong family attachment. 

• Religion or spiritual beliefs. 

MORE TIPS FOR TALKING TO TEENS 

Pick the right time to talk – Ask if it’s a good time and don’t 

force your teen to chat if they’re not up for it. 

Talk often – Short conversations are better than long lectures. 

Keep the conversation positive – Try your best to not lecture or 

criticize them. 

Actively listen and have a two-way conversation – Think 

about their point of view and listen to what they have to say. 

Have an impact – Teens are affected by peer pressure and their 

insecurities, so try to focus on messages that may resonate with 

them, such as health, appearance, or sports performance. 

Use teachable moments to start the conversation – A situation 

at school or a current event might help you to ask what they 

think of alcohol. 

Express your concerns and your expectations – Understand 

that they may not agree with how you feel. 

Use fact – Educate them using facts to allow them to make 

informed decisions about alcohol. 

What if your teen mentions that they’ve seen you drink? Explain 

that as an adult, you are more equipped to make decisions that 

are both informed and legal. Discuss how consuming alcohol 

during their teen years increases risks for their mental and 

physical health. 

CONVERSATION STARTERS 

Looking for a way to start the conversation? Try these: 

• Have you heard about the new alcohol guidance – what do 

you think? 


• Does anyone around you drink alcohol? 

• Has anyone offered you alcohol? How did it make you feel? 

• Do you know what alcohol poisoning looks like? What 

would you do if someone you knew drank so much 

they passed out? 

• I am concerned for your well-being if you choose 

to consume alcohol, but if you do, these are my 

expectations: 

GBK 

• Have a plan to get home safely. Don’t drink and 

drive and don’t get into a car with someone who has 

been drinking. If you ever feel scared or uncomfortable 

– call or text me and I will come pick you up. 

By having open and balanced conversations with your child or 

teen, you can help them make healthy and informed decisions 

about alcohol use. 

References 

Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction. Canada’s 

Guidance on Alcohol and Health. Jan 2023 

Drug Free Kids Canada. Alcohol. N.d. 

Drug Free Kids Canada. Talking with your kids about Alcohol. N.d. 

Drug Free Kids Canada. Youth and Alcohol. N.d. 

Government of Canada. How to Talk with you Teen about Drugs – 

Communication Tips for Parents. Feb 2010. 

Health Canada. Talking with teenagers about drugs and alcohol. Feb 

6, 2023. 

Parachute. Road Safety. Nov 28, 2022 

GBK 

BAILEY RESSLER is a Health Promoter at Grey Bruce Public Health 

and a member of the organization’s Chronic Disease/Injury Prevention 

Team. Bailey joined GBPH in March 2021. In her free time, Bailey enjoys 

being outdoors, at the beach, and spending time with friends and 

family. 

Work from home 

Be a Licensed Home Child Care Provider 

Make a lasting 

impact and 

positive 

difference in a 

child’s life 

BENEFITS 

COUNTY 

OF BRUCE 

PRIVATE 

Number of children in your care 6 5 

Funds for start up costs Yes No 

Support from a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) Yes No 

Referrals to your Home Child Care business Yes No 

Guaranteed payment for families eligible for Child Care Subsidy Yes No 

Financial top up Yes No 

Financial support for toys and equipment Yes No 

Professional development and training Yes No 

Become a Home Child Care Provider with 

the County of Bruce Children’s Services Division 

Call 1-800-265-3005 and ask for the Home Child Care staff or visit: 

brucecounty.on.ca/childrens-services 


EDUCATION 

skilled 

trades 

Superheroes 

CAPES OPTIONAL FOR OUR FUTURE WORKFORCE 

BY PHILLIP CRAIG

My eldest son loves Spider-Man. When he puts on his red 

and black webbed pajamas, he isn’t a getting ready for bed 

– nope, he’s getting ready to save the world. 

Unfortunately, since he is likely to inherit his father’s lack of 

superhuman strength, speed or spidey-sense, the traditional 

superhero route may not be an option. 

However, as our country is facing real-world challenges from 

aging infrastructure to dealing with the effects of the climate 

crisis, there is a significant opportunity for my son – along with 

thousands of other girls and boys – to make a difference by 

being a real-world superhero. 

The best part is there’s no secret identity needed. And they can 

do it right here at home, in Bruce and Grey counties. 

How? Through the skilled trades. 

SUPERHEROES AND 

THE SKILLED TRADES 

According to the Canadian Construction Association, more 

than 81,000 construction industry positions remain open across 

the country. This all-time high make future growth plans to 

repair and maintain aging infrastructure like roads, bridges, 

and hospitals a huge challenge – not to mention building and 

retrofitting structures for future climate resiliency. 

And talking about climate change, this summer the Province 

of Ontario unveiled Powering Ontario’s Growth, a plan to meet 

projected increases in electricity demand with clean, lowcarbon 

supply on the path to Net Zero 2050. The plan calls 

for construction of clean sources of electricity generation like 

nuclear, hydroelectric, wind and solar, in addition to adding 

new sources of energy storage, like pumped storage, and new 

transmission capacity. 

Here in Grey/Bruce, that means the potential for a lot of 

opportunity coming our way. The Minister of Energy and Bruce 

Power announced pre-development work to site the first largescale 

nuclear build in more than 30 years – if constructed, it 

would generate enough electricity to power 4.8 million homes! 

SKILLED WORKERS NEEDED 

While all of this is great news and considerable attention 

has been given to technological advancements and policy 

frameworks a plan like this will need, a crucial aspect perhaps 

not as often mentioned in the media is the availability of a 

skilled workforce. Echoing the construction worker numbers I’d 

mentioned, Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training 

and Skills Development (MLITSD) has also raised the alarm; 

we’re facing the biggest labour shortage in ages. A recent report 

from the Financial Post claims that Canada will be short 100,000 

tradespeople in the next 10 years. Not only that, but one-third 

of skilled trades workers are older than 55 with retirement on 

the horizon. 

There is both opportunity and job security in the skilled trade 

fields and, with median incomes for Canada’s tradespeople 

ranging from $80,000 to $100,000, there is a real opportunity 

for the next generation to be saving the planet while also 

thriving financially. 

This is where the kids come in. 

THE HOW-TO 

Now, in every good superhero franchise, there is a training 

montage where our heroes learn how to harness their power in 

order to serve the greater good. Luckily for us, sparking your 

children’s interest in skilled trades doesn’t require an investment 

in CGI special effects, fancy costumes, or even anyone to get 

bitten by a radioactive spider. 

Instead, let’s look at three things you can do to help your child 

get ready for success in the skilled trades. 

Spark STEM interests around the home – An easy way to 

spark your children’s interests in science, technology, engineering 

and math-related trades is to let them help you as you go about 

your day. You might not realize it, but many of the hands-on 

tasks that parents, grandparents and guardians do around the 

house can help even the youngest children develop problemsolving 

skills, discover their aptitudes, and gain exposure to 

different trades. 

Encourage this hands-on exploration by engaging in 

practical activities – Even those pesky do-it-yourself projects at 

home can provide excellent opportunities for learning about how 

the world works. 

Take something like building a birdhouse, fixing a leaky faucet, 

or assembling IKEA furniture. While you see those tasks as 

sprucing up the backyard, stopping that annoying drip, and 

some type of Swedish LEGO torture, your children get a firsthand 

look at construction, plumbing, engineering and project 

management. These are all great way engage your children in 

hands-on learning and introduce basic trade-related skills. 

The same can be said about outdoor tasks like gardening and 

landscaping. Encourage your kids to participate in the outdoor 

tasks, such as planting, weeding, or constructing a small garden 


from buoyancy to cardboard boat construction materials. Not 

only did we learn a lot about the skill of boat building, but we 

had a blast doing it. 

Regardless of whether cardboard boats sink or swim, these 

types of activities allow children to experience some success in 

building early on and learn new skills, all while providing a great 

opportunity to bond with your child. 

Lean into skilled trades experiences in older grades – As your 

child starts selecting their high school pathways, encourage 

them to take a shop class or two. These classrooms are filled 

with incredible teachers who are excited to get students 

into the trades. Many of these classes can also lead to co-op 

opportunities, which can further enhance your child’s education. 

NII Explore is proud to be partnering with Kincardine District 

Senior School’s Energy Specialist High Skills Major Program 

to offer a co-op opportunity exactly like this. While a regular 

co-op pairs a student with a company for a semester at a time, 

this energy sector-specific co-op will allow students to sample 

all the trades required to keep the lights on, from electricians to 

welders, PPE manufacturers to scaffolders. This approach will 

introduce students to jobs they never knew existed and hopefully 

open some eyes to future opportunities. 

structure. These activities take planning and design, exposing 

children to trades like horticulture, landscaping and carpentry. 

Explore skilled trades at work and play in our communities 

– The second thing you can do to further encourage children 

to explore skilled trades as they get older is to investigate 

opportunities right here in our communities. Many schools host 

STEM nights or LEGO leagues, which allow kids to get creative 

while building their own structures and robots. Schools and 

libraries offer makerspaces where students can create their own 

projects or try repairing something around the house instead of 

buying new. 

Local fairs and festivals offer craft opportunities for children 

to build things, work with students from other communities, 

and use their imaginations. A personal favourite is the Marine 

Heritage Festival’s cardboard boat race in Southampton. This 

summer was the festival’s biggest event yet, with nearly 50 

entries from all ages. 

Our team at NII Explore spent the lead-up to the festival diving 

into the science behind boat building, explaining everything 

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER 

If you’re really interested in how to prepare your high schooler 

for success in the skilled trades, don’t just take my word for it. 

Dave Shorey, Executive Director of Georgian College’s Owen 

Sound Campus, is a strong proponent of the skilled trades right 

here at home. 

“Georgian College is an important partner in preparing the 

next generation of skilled tradespeople through an approach 

that includes collaboration with school boards, apprenticeship 

education, and post-secondary education,” Dave said. “Nothing 

brings us more joy than seeing people realize bright futures close 

to home.” 

Locally, the college supports young people in the skilled trades 

through its close collaboration with school boards. Before kids 

reach Grade 9, Georgian helps provide hands-on experiences 

on campus and in the community that get young people 

experimenting with design and working with tools. Once in 

high school, students have a range of exciting options that can 

fast-track their journey into the skilled trades. 

Tips from Dave on how to point high school students in the 

right direction include: 

Check out dual credit courses – These provide students with 


valuable exposure to trades like carpentry, electrical work and 

welding, allowing them to earn high school and college credits 

at the same time. This approach accelerates student learning and 

lays a solid foundation for their future studies and careers. 

Start with a good foundation – The Ontario Youth 

Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) is another initiative that 

Georgian College, school boards, and the MLITSD partner to 

deliver. Through OYAP, high school students can complete Level 

1 of apprenticeship training in trades such as culinary, carpentry 

and electrical work. This immersive experience equips them with 

practical skills and provides a clear pathway for their transition 

into the workforce as certified apprentices. 

Keep an eye on industry needs – Local post-secondary 

programs like welding, electrical work and carpentry techniques 

are designed to cater to the needs of students seeking a more 

focused and accelerated educational path. These eight-month 

programs align directly with industry demands, enhancing 

graduates’ employability and providing them with the necessary 

skills to thrive in their chosen trades. In fact, completing these 

programs also grants students exemptions from the first level of 

apprenticeship school, giving them a head start in their career. 

Look for hands-on, even here at home – Hands-on 

apprenticeship training ensures that apprentices receive the 

necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their careers while 

contributing positively to their respective industries. Offering 

a range of apprenticeships in the region also means that Grey/ 

Bruce students can go home at night, accessing trades education 

near where they work, while also saving money. 

THE START OF THE STORY 

Your child’s skilled trades superhero story begins here. Skilled 

trades careers are hands-on, dynamic and quickly evolving. 

Education is industry-connected with limitless opportunities 

after graduation. So let’s make sure our children get involved in 

STEM education from an early age; let’s continue to spark their 

interest, pay attention to what excites them, and ensure they 

have the right opportunities as they get older. 

Every good superhero needs an origin story and they can begin 

building their own right here in Grey/Bruce. GBK 

PHILLIP CRAIG is the Director of NII Explore at the Nuclear Innovation 

Institute in Saugeen Shores, where he helps students embrace new 

knowledge and gain the tools they’ll need to make positive change 

in their communities and the world. He lives near Kincardine with his 

wife Katie, daughter Violet, and sons Atlas and Henry. Learn more at 

niiexplore.ca. 

DAVE SHOREY is the Executive Director of Georgian College’s Grey 

Bruce Campus in Owen Sound. Dave provides strategic leadership for 

Georgian College’s six regional campuses, ensuring that the programs 

and student supports provide learners of all ages and stages in their 

careers with access to high-quality education close to home. Dave and 

his family live in Port Elgin and are often found near the water or a 

place with good coffee and baked goods. 

Learn how we make clean energy and medical 

isotopes at the Bruce Power Visitors’ Centre. 

Wonder. 

Explore. 

Discover. 

www.brucepower.com/visit 

3394 BRUCE ROAD 20, NORTH OF TIVERTON, WEST OF HIGHWAY 21. T: (519) 361-7777 



CARING FOR 

yourself 

TIPS FOR TAKING CARE OF 

YOUR MENTAL HEALTH 

BY MATT MINTY 


Do I need therapy? As a psychotherapist (qualifying), I 

hear people asking themselves this question a lot (and 

sometimes they ask me, to which I universally reply “no 

comment”). 

The reality is, some people may benefit from therapy in a certain 

situation, while others might navigate the same challenge 

themselves without support. With that said, there are some 

techniques I have picked up along my counselling career that I 

have found to be mostly successful with clients, and for those 

desiring mental health support but who may be reluctant to 

reach out to a therapist or want to first try things themselves. 

The three most common issues I hear are anxiety, self-esteem, 

and depression. Below are a few techniques that I have found 

to have high levels of success when introduced into someone’s 

self-care plan. 

ANXIETY 

Anxiety can be identified as a feeling of tension or worry, and 

some physical changes like increased blood pressure or shortness 

of breath (amongst others). There can be a specific situation 

that brings on the feelings of anxiety, but it can also be a learned 

response to stressors and happen in a variety of settings. In the 

moment of feeling strong anxiety, I encourage my clients to try 

a grounding or mindfulness exercise to help snap their mind out 

of any sort of fixation that may be going on, helping them to be 

more present. Deep breathing is a common exercise I encourage 

during highly anxious situations, and it includes taking a 

breath in for five seconds, holding it for five more, and then 

exhaling to a five count. I ask clients to, during the inhalation 

and exhalation times, picture a calming colour or image. This 

technique can also help with physical symptoms like a tight 

chest because it forces those muscles to expand and ultimately 

loosen, and it ultimately helps shift the mind’s eye from a 

stressor to the present environment. 

Another common mindfulness exercise is called the five senses 

(or Five S). It is done when the individual focuses their mind 

on five things they can see, then four things they can touch, 

three things they can hear, two things they can smell, and one 

thing they can (or could) taste. Like deep breathing, this exercise 

distracts the mind from its stressors and snaps it into the present. 

I specifically like this technique because it is somewhat discreet 

and can be done almost anywhere. 

One technique that gets to the root of a client’s anxieties is 

journalling about what their issue is, taking a step back for a few 

minutes, and then revisiting it by asking themselves how much 

stress/anxiety does this situation deserve on a scale from one 

(minimal stress) to 10 (the world is ending). From this point, 

I ask them to also consider three solutions to the problem and 

how to execute those solutions. 

If they are having trouble identifying solutions, I ask them to 

consider if their friend had the same problem, what advice 

would they give them. This approach of quantifying a problem 

and externalizing it often helps individuals to apply a more 

realistic weight to life’s stressors and develop better long-term 

coping skills in general. 

SELF-ESTEEM 

Self-esteem is our own feelings of self-worth. For those with 


low self-esteem, I often find there is a theme of comparison to 

others, or that the actions or comments of others have impacted 

one’s own feelings of self-worth. For those who come to me with 

low self-esteem there are two common techniques I use with 

them that have roots in cognitive behavioural therapy in terms of 

identifying maladaptive thoughts, and attempting to re-program 

those thoughts to be kinder and more positive. 

The first technique I have found is very supportive for those who 

have been victims of bullying, and often the bullying was years 

ago. With these clients, I often ask personal questions about 

their bullies like, “Where they are now?” “How many kids do 

they have?” “What is their favourite book or favourite band?” 

etc. Clients often come to the realization they do not know 

much about their bullies now, and really did not know much 

about them in their childhood. 

I follow up these questions by asking them if they met their 

bully now, would they let them into their life or even be friends 

with them? Nearly 100 per cent of the time the answer is a 

resounding “no,” which leads me to ask, “Why is someone you 

don’t know well, who you would not care to let into your life 

today, having such an impact all these years later?” For many, 

this is a light bulb moment and helps challenge long-standing 

narratives because they realize that person’s opinion should not 

matter anymore, and likely never should have. 

The second technique I use with clients is to ask them to list five 

things they are proud of about themselves from the previous 24 

hours. It seems easy, but for those with low self-esteem (or most 

people for that matter), we tend to focus on what we didn’t do 

versus giving ourselves credit for what we did do. Simple things 

like getting to work on time, taking 30 minutes for “me time,” 

helping a neighbour, doing food preparation, emptying the 

dishwasher, etc., may seem small, but they are elements of our 

day that are meaningful and deserve recognition. Just imagine if 

you did not do any of these things and the negative impacts you 

might have on your life. 

The more we practice identifying the good things about 

ourselves the easier it becomes, and the less the negative selfthoughts 

will carry weight. I have seen clients’ self-esteem 

significantly increase just by doing this simple exercise. 

DEPRESSION 

Depression is defined as having a low mood and a lack of 

motivation to take part in things that normally would have 

garnered interest. A supervisor of mine (Jody Benninger, MSW) 

once told me that depression is anxiety turned inwards. While 

that may not be true for all individuals, I do feel that a lack of 

control of situations is more often than not a common theme 

for individuals with mild depression. In supporting individuals 

with mild depression there are two things I most commonly 

focus on – day-to-day quality of life and exploring the roots of 

depression. 

Before taking any actions to improve depression, I ask my clients 

to first consider where they are on a scale of one (minimal or no 

depression) to 10 (feeling highly depressed) as a baseline. This 

ranking is meant to be revisited weekly to ideally see the level of 

self-identified depression go down, or to be used as a guide to 

take more significant actions if it remains the same or gets worse. 

After baseline testing, I then bring up some daily life focus 

areas that are known to help improve feelings of depression. 


These include proper diet, exercise, socializing, sleep, reducing 

alcohol and other substance consumption, and time in sunlight. 

I ask clients to consider each of these life areas, and, on a scale 

from one (not satisfied) to 10 (fully satisfied), rate how they are 

doing in each category. Where they note a lower score, I ask 

them what it would take to move up one or two points, and 

we put achievable actions in place. In taking this approach, it’s 

important to have realistic actions that the individual knows 

they are likely to accomplish. This approach is simple and 

introduces measuring success, which can be an element in any 

mental health strategy. 

A second approach to support an individual with mild 

depression includes exploring its roots. For some, life events 

can cause depression. Identifying when the depression started, 

and what was going on in an individual’s life leading up to it is 

usually the starting point. Some common themes that bring on 

depression relate to missed opportunities, a relationship ending, 

a loss of someone, abuse, and more. These are often situations 

the client cannot simply fix overnight, but this identification 

may make it more obvious what actions could be taken to move 

on from the situation, and possibly change the narrative. 

For example, I have had clients in their late teens who began 

feeling depressed when they noted that their friends moved away 

to pursue post-secondary opportunities while they did not. This 

simple realization of feeling left behind helped identify actions 

(exploring a different career or life paths), that once in place, 

significantly decreased their depressive feelings. 

This article is meant to 

provide some general 

advice for those who 

may be motivated to try 

some common mental 

health techniques on 

their own. For those 

struggling with mental 

health issues no matter 

how big or small please 

take care of yourself 

and seek support if 

you need it. For those 

experiencing any sort 

of at-risk behaviour like 

self-harm or suicidal 

thoughts, please seek 

support immediately. GBK 

MATT MINTY is a qualifying psychotherapist and can be reached at 

frontiertherapy@gmail.com or www.frontiertherapy.ca if you need 

additional support. 



Vibrant ears, 

VIBRANT FUTURE 

Optimal hearing health for the whole family 

By Christine Feige 


a parent or grandparent, you want to ensure the health and happiness of 

A your child or grandchild. While physical health and mental wellbeing are 

commonly prioritized, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of hearing 

health. Hearing connects us to the world, and maintaining good hearing health 

throughout our lives is vital. 

HOW HEARING OCCURS IN THE BRAIN 

Hearing is a complex process that happens in the brain. Sound waves travel 

through the ear, and the brain processes them for comprehension. It’s important 

to note that hearing loss, whether caused by injury, illness, excessive sound 

exposure, or aging, can impact brain health, leading to an increased risk of 

cognitive decline. Additionally, it affects physical health by increasing the risk of 

falls and mental health by increasing the risk of depression and social isolation. 

Understanding the causes of hearing loss is essential to address the issue 

effectively. 

CLEARING THE PATHWAY TO THE BRAIN 

Cerumen impaction, or the build-up of earwax, can have significant effects on 

optimal hearing health. When earwax accumulates and blocks the ear canal, it 

can lead to symptoms such as decreased hearing sensitivity, muffled sounds, or 

even temporary hearing loss. This impaction not only hinders our ability to hear 

clearly but also increases the risk of developing other complications, such as ear 

infections or tinnitus. 

To ensure optimal hearing health, it’s crucial to address cerumen impaction 

promptly. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the ears by a hearing health care 

professional can help to maintain a clear pathway for sound to reach the inner 

ear. By taking proactive steps to manage cerumen impaction, you can safeguard 


your hearing abilities and promote overall optimal hearing health. 

IDENTIFY HEARING LOSS 

Hearing loss can impact individuals of all ages, from infants to 

older adults. It’s important to recognize the signs of hearing loss to 

ensure timely intervention and support. Detecting hearing loss in 

children can be challenging, as they may struggle to communicate 

their difficulties. 

However, there are signs to watch for, including: 

• Delayed language development. 

• Difficulty following directions. 

• Poor academic performance. 

• Inattentiveness or lack of response to sounds. 

• High volume when watching TV or listening 

to music. 

The signs and symptoms of hearing loss can vary among young 

adults and adults. Common indicators include: 

• Difficulty hearing conversations, especially in noisy 

environments. 

• Increasing volume on the TV or radio. 


• Frequent requests for repetition. 

• Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus). 

• Difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds. 

• Avoidance of social situations or withdrawal from 

conversations. 

IMPACT ON DAILY LIFE 

Hearing loss can significantly impact individuals of all ages. 

Untreated hearing loss in children can lead to difficulty 

understanding instructions, communicating with peers, and 

feelings of isolation. In teens and young adults, hearing loss can 

affect academic and social lives. For adults and older adults, 

it can affect communication with family and friends, job 

performance, and overall quality of life. 

Regardless of age, hearing loss may lead to social isolation, 

depression, and cognitive decline. 

PREVENT HEARING LOSS 

Preventing hearing loss is a collective effort that involves all 

family members. By being proactive and taking preventative 

measures, individuals within the family can significantly 

minimize the risk of hearing loss and preserve their hearing 

abilities throughout their lives. Below are key strategies to help 

prevent hearing loss at different stages of life. 

Children 

• Limit exposure to loud noises, such as music players 

or fireworks, and provide hearing protection in noisy 

environments. 

• Encourage safe listening habits, like keeping the volume at 

a moderate level when using headphones or earbuds. Ask 

about custom hearing protection plugs. 

• Teach children about the importance of taking breaks from 

noisy activities to give their ears a rest. 

• Stay vigilant about the noise levels in their environment, 

ensuring they are exposed to safe and comfortable sound 

levels. 

Teens and young adults 

• Educate them about the potential risks of prolonged 

exposure to loud music at concerts, clubs, or through 

personal audio devices. 

• Encourage the use of hearing protection, such as earplugs 

or noise-cancelling headphones, in noisy environments. 

Custom hearing protection plugs can be made by a hearing 

health care provider. 

• Encourage regular hearing check-ups and screenings to 

monitor hearing health or address any potential hearing 

issues. 

SCHOOL STARTS 

SEPTEMBER 5 TH 

ÉCOLE CATHOLIQUE 

SAINT-DOMINIQUE-SAVIO 

800 23 rd Street East, Owen Sound 

519-371-0627 

REGISTER ONLINE AT ALL TIMES 

MyFrenchSchool.ca 


Adults and older adults 

• Protect ears from excessive noise by using earplugs or 

earmuffs in loud environments, such as concerts or 

construction sites. Custom hearing protection plugs can be 

made by a hearing health care provider. 

• Be aware of medication side effects that may impact hearing 

and consult with health care professionals about potential 

risks. 

• Stay updated with regular hearing assessments to monitor 

any changes and take necessary steps to address hearing loss 

promptly. 

SAFEGUARDING YOUR 

FAMILY’S HEARING 

Collaboratively, a family unit can play a crucial role in 

preventing hearing loss. First and foremost, creating an 

environment with reduced background noise during 

conversations and family activities is essential to ensure that 

everyone can communicate effectively without straining their 

ears. This creates a more conducive environment for maintaining 

healthy hearing. 

Encouraging healthy lifestyle choices is another important aspect 

of hearing loss prevention. A balanced diet rich in nutrients, 

regular exercise, and managing chronic conditions that may 

impact hearing, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, can 

contribute to overall hearing health. By prioritizing these 

healthy habits as a family, individuals can reduce the risk factors 

associated with hearing loss and support optimal hearing 

abilities. 

Open communication about hearing health and the importance 

of preventative measures is crucial within the family. By fostering 

a dialogue about hearing health, family members can raise 

awareness, share knowledge, and encourage each other to take 

proactive steps towards prevention. Understanding the impact 

of hearing loss and the value of prevention, families can support 

each other in maintaining healthy hearing habits. 

By working together as a family unit, everyone can contribute to 

creating a hearing-friendly environment to ensure long-lasting 

hearing health for each family member. 

HEARING EVALUATIONS 

If you or a family member experiences any signs or symptoms 


of hearing loss, it’s crucial to seek a hearing evaluation promptly. 

During the appointment, a hearing health care professional 

will conduct tests to determine the degree and type of hearing 

loss and recommend appropriate treatment options. Early 

identification of hearing loss enhances the effectiveness of 

treatment. 

UNDERSTANDING THE CAUSES 

Hearing loss can result from various scenarios, including natural 

aging and exposure to loud noises. The most common causes 

include aging, noise exposure, head trauma, viruses or diseases, 

genetics, and ototoxicity (damage from certain medications). 

SUPPORTING FAMILY MEMBERS 

Supporting loved ones with hearing loss requires patience 

and understanding, as communication can be challenging. 

Remember these tips: 

• Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. 

• Face the person directly to allow lip-reading. 

• Show patience and understanding. 

• Minimize background noise by turning off the TV or radio. 

Additionally, there are assistive devices available, such as hearing 

aids, cochlear implants, amplified telephones, and closed 

captioning on TVs and movies. Encourage your loved ones to 

seek a hearing health care professional and get an assessment to 

explore these options to find what works best for them. 

EMPOWERING YOUTH 

When discussing hearing loss with children and young adults, 

frame the conversation positively and proactively. Emphasize 

the importance of taking care of hearing health and encourage 

regular hearing screenings as part of a normal routine. Discuss 

the risks and consequences of untreated hearing loss and 

highlight the benefits of maintaining good hearing health. 

HEARING HEALTH PROFESSIONALS 

There are several types of hearing health care professionals who 

play important roles in addressing hearing-related concerns. 

Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist (ENT): Otolaryngologists 

‘need to talk?’ 

At FRONTIER THERAPY we would love to listen 

and support you on your therapy journey. 

Contact us today for a free consultation. 

www.frontiertherapy.ca 

are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating 

conditions related to the ears, nose, and throat. They handle a 

wide range of ear-related disorders, including complex hearing 

issues, and may perform surgical procedures if necessary. 

Audiologist: Audiologists are highly trained professionals 

who specialize in evaluating and treating hearing and balance 

disorders. They are trained to conduct thorough evaluations, 

provide diagnostic services, recommend appropriate treatment 

options, and offer rehabilitative services such as hearing aid 

fittings and auditory therapy. 

Hearing Instrument Specialist: These are trained professionals 

who specialize in assessing and evaluating your hearing levels. 

They also listen to your lifestyle needs to help provide the best 

selection, fitting, and care for your hearing aids. They play a 

crucial role in helping individuals improve their hearing and 

quality of life by offering personalized solutions tailored to their 

unique hearing requirements. Hearing Instrument Specialists 

work closely with your family doctor or nurse practitioner to 

assist you with your hearing health. 

Each of these professionals plays a crucial role in addressing 

hearing health and contribute to improving individuals’ hearing 

abilities and overall quality of life. 

AFFECTED BY HEARING LOSS? 

Hearing health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being. By 

staying informed and taking proactive steps to support your own 

Quick access to: 

Bus Cancellations 

and Delays 

School Listings 

School Cash Online 

Board Social Media 

and more! 

Bluewater District 

School Board 

Mobile App 

Download for free on your Apple or 

Android device! 

Visit the App Store, 

Google Play, or look 

for the app icon on 

our website: 

www.bwdsb.on.ca 


hearing journey and that of your loved ones, you can ensure a brighter and more fulfilling 

future. If you have any concerns about hearing health, we encourage you to book a hearing 

evaluation with a hearing health care professional so you can re-discover the joy of hearing! 

EYE-OPENING STATS ON HEARING LOSS 

Consider these notable statistics from the World Health Organization: 

• One-in-six adults aged 18 and older experiences hearing loss. 

• More than 1.5 billion people worldwide – nearly 20 per cent of the global population 

– live with hearing loss. 

• One-in-three individuals over age 65 – 165 million people worldwide – live with 

hearing loss. 

• By 2050, nearly 2.5 billion people are projected to have some degree of hearing loss 

and at least 700 million – or one-in-10 people – will have disabling hearing loss and 

will require hearing rehabilitation. 

• Over one billion young adults are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing loss due to 

unsafe listening practices. GBK 

CHRISTINE FEIGE is a board-certified Hearing Instrument Specialist and Founder and President of 

ActivEars Hearing Centres. Since entering the hearing industry in 1993, Christine has had the privilege 

of providing comprehensive hearing health care to patients throughout Ontario. ActivEars Hearing 

Centres are located in Sarnia, Owen Sound, Hanover, and Durham. Visit www.activears.com. If you 

or your loved ones have any questions, please ask any of the knowledgeable staff at an ActivEars 

Hearing Centre. 


L I V E M U S I C 

L O C A L F O O D 

F U N & G A M E S 

LIVING HISTORY 

FREE FOR MEMBERS 

& KIDS UNDER 5 

F A M I L Y : $ 2 7 . 5 0 + T A X 

greyroots.com 

Fall Programs 

M I N D F U L 

E A T I N G 

Become more in tune with 

your body, respond to 

cues and manage food 

cravings 

Wednesdays 5:30-7:00pm 

Sept 27- Nov 15 

P R E N A T A L 

Learn about healthy 

pregnancy, preparing for 

labour and birth, 

newborn care and 

preparing to breastfeed 

Wednesdays 6:30-8:30 pm 

Sept 6 - Oct 4 

Virtual 

P O S T P A R T U M 

R E C O V E R Y 

Recover from birth, 

restore & retain pelvic floor 

& core muscles, 

strengthen large muscle groups & 

safely return to exercise 

Wednesdays 11:00-12:00pm 

Sept 13- Oct 18 

Walkerton Community Centre 

R e g i s t e r t o d a y 5 1 9 - 5 0 7 - 2 0 2 1 e x t . 2 4 o r v i s i t u s o n F a c e b o o k 


FAMILY 

The art of 

letting go 

BIG EMOTIONS, SMALL BODIES 

BY ESPERANZA EUSEBIO 


We move quickly every day, and kids are 

constantly soaking everything in and 

learning. Yet sometimes we can get overwhelmed 

and that is when we explode! Our minds can get 

overstimulated with TV, games, and social media. 

As a little human, still developing and learning 

from the adults around us, we can learn a few 

techniques to be able to let go. 

My four-year-old reminded me how change can 

be difficult sometimes, but if we teach them the 

concept, they will have a different perspective and 

will be learning the art of letting go at a young age. 

There is always something new that we want to 

bring to our lives and the lives of our little ones – 

soccer, hockey, gymnastics, guitar lessons, dance, 

perhaps a cooking lesson and why not a forest 

school day on PD Day? We forget something that 

is very simple to understand, to be able to live in 

balance. When was the last time your kid was bored? 

How easy it is for us to live in this century where 

we can easily draw water from a tap when we are 

thirsty? How easy is it to open our fridge and 

have food when we are hungry? We are living in 

abundance, and this is where we can start our 

personal journey of letting go. 

The first thing is to define what we consider 

“abundance” in our lives. There are so many kinds 

of abundance – financial, spiritual, love, freedom, 

health, time, and knowledge, so the question is 

what kind of abundance do you want for your life? 

What are the things you need to let go? Our kids 

can learn about how to let go if they see us practice 

this. It can be frustrating at first, but if we teach 

them young, they will be prepared for what is 

coming in the future. 

We live in a world where we have reached the 

maximum comfort for humans – most of us have 

heat, food, water, and yet many of us still want 

more… 

The intention of this article is to help us come back 

to the present moment. Think about it, we are 

always living in the past or the future, and not too 

much in the present. To be able to let go, we need 

to be in the moment, and our kids can really help 

us get there because of their innocent nature. 

Here are a few things that can inspire you to let go: 

Spending time in nature with our kids – There 

is no excuse to be inside when the weather is 

beautiful. A walk, a swim at the beach or perhaps 

in a kiddy pool in the backyard, or simply laying 

down in the grass can help us bring clarity. 

Protect your time – Sometimes we complicate 

our lives by booking too much on the agenda. 

Saying no is not easy, but when you are feeling 

stressed the best tip to protect your time and 

boundaries should be saying no. It is a great 

challenge and practice, especially with little ones! 

We can start with ourselves – can you learn to say 

no to yourself? 

Choose your battles – Sometimes peace is better 

than being right and teaching our kids about 

change is a big one. You can do this at work, 

school, and home, and with your family and 

friends. Let go of the battles that we know are 

going to stress us out. 

Co-regulation – For our little ones to be able to 

let go they need to feel connected to us as adults. 

When we allow ourselves to be present and can 

tune into their feelings, the beautiful practice of 

co-regulation happens! 

Gratitude practice – To be able to let go, we need 

to be aware of our blessings, make a list, and ask 

our little ones every day what their favourite part 

of the day was. There are always little things that 

they can point to and learn from! 

We can be the makers of a balanced and peaceful 

life. The meaning of yoga translates to union, and 

the union that we often lose when we are away 

from the present is our mind/body connection. 

Incorporating this practice into our every day, will 

teach us more about the art of letting go. GBK 

ESPERANZA EUSEBIO is the owner of the Yoga Barn 

Studio. She has been practicing yoga since she was 

17 and been teaching the past 11 years. The native 

of Mexico has a Masters in Science from Iowa State 

University and also studied marketing. She also leads 

yoga retreats to other countries. Learn more at www. 

yogabarn.ca. 


RESOURCES 

ABUSE 

Assaulted Women’s Helpline 

Crisis line: 1-866-863-0511 

www.awhl.org 

Bruce Grey Child and Family Services 

(Bruce and Grey Children’s Aid Societies 

amalgamated April 1, 2012) 

1-855-322-4453 

Keystone Child, Youth & Family Services 

1-800-567-2384; 519-371-4773 

kcyfs@bmts.com or keystonebrucegrey.org 

Owen Sound 

Saugeen First Nation - Kabaeshiwim 

Respite Women’s Shelter 

519-797-2521 

cgeorge@saugeenfirstnation.ca 

www.saugeenfirstnation.ca 

Sexual Assault and Partner 

Abuse Care Centre 

Grey Bruce Health Services 

1-888-525-0552 or www.gbhs.on.ca 

Owen Sound 

Victim Services Bruce Grey 

Perth 

Crisis: 1-866-376-9852 

Administration: 1-888-577-3111 

info@victim-services.com 

www.victim-services.com 

Victim/Witness Assistance Program 

Owen Sound - 1-866-259-4823 

Walkerton - 1-866-994-9904 

attorneygeneral@ontario.ca 

http://bit.ly/ujKyeE 

Women’s Centre (Grey and Bruce) 

Administration: 519-376-0755 

Crisis: 1-800-265-3722 

womenscentre@bmts.com 

www.bmts.com/~womenscentre 

Owen Sound 

Women’s House Serving Bruce and Grey 

Sexual assault crisis: 1-866-578-5566 

Crisis line: 1-800-265-3026 

Administration: (519) 396-9814 

crisis@whsbg.on.ca 

www.whsbg.on.ca 

Kincardine 

BREASTFEEDING 

Brockton and Area Family Health Team 

1-866-507-2021 or 519-881-1920 

RN/certified Lactation Consultant available 

www.bafht.com 

Walkerton 

Grey Bruce Health Unit 

1-800-263-3456 

publichealth@publichealthgreybruce.on.ca 

www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca 

Owen Sound 

Hanover Family Health Team 

RN/Certified Lactation Consultant 

519-506-4348 

www.hanoverfht.ca 

La Leche League Canada 

Owen Sound; 519-376-5916; www.lllc.ca 

Moms Walkerton 

New Mom support 

320 Durham St.., Walkerton; 519-379-6769 

Support groups 

Southampton, Port Elgin, Paisley, and Tara - 

519-797-2010 

Kincardine, Ripley, Tiverton, and Lucknow - 

519-368-4847 

South-Bruce Breastfeeding Buddies - 

519-881-1920 

Wiarton and Bruce Peninsula - 519-534-0912 

Markdale - 519-369-3381 

Owen Sound - 519-372-1330 

The Mama Nurse 

www.themamanurse.com 

CHILDBIRTH 

Glamma Doula 

Christine Piotrowski, Postpartum Doula 

www.glammadoula.com; 519-477-9985 

Hanover and District Hospital Obstetrics/ 

Family Centred Care Birthing Centre 

519-364-2340 

admin@hanoverhospital.on.ca 

www.hanoverhospital.on.ca 

Jessica Connor Doula Services 

519-580-0612 or jconnor.doula@gmail.com 

www.jessicaconnor.ca 

Midwives Grey Bruce 

519-371-2886 

www.midwivesgreybruce.com 

Owen Sound 

Owen Sound Hospital Labour and Delivery 

519-376-2121 

www.gbhs.on.ca/owensound.php 

Walkerton Hospital Family Birthing Centre 

519-881-1220 

www.sbghc.on.ca 

CHILD CARE 

Acorn Montessori 

705-606-1642 

Thornbury 

Amabel-Sauble Child Care Centre 

519-422-3611 

Sauble Beach 

Beaver Valley Outreach 

519-599-2577 

Bobi’s Playschool 

519-538-5483 

Meaford 

Brockton Child Care Centre 

sbross@brockton.ca 

Brooke Montessori Toddler Program 

519-376-3447, Owen Sound 

Bruce County Childcare Services 

519-881-0431 or www.brucecounty.on.ca 

Walkerton 

Bruce Peninsula Family Centre 

519-793-4100 

Lion’s Head 

Chesley Nursery School 

519-363-9544 

Durham Nursery School 

519-369-6973 

Grey County Childcare Services 

519-376-7324, www.greycounty.ca/childcare 

Hanover Montessori Children's House 

1-800-906-7036 or 519-364-6455 

Happy Hearts Day Care Centre 

519-376-1284 

Owen Sound 

Inglenook Creche Day Care 

519-371-9471; Owen Sound 

Kids & Us Community Childcare 

and Family Education Centres 

Ayton - 519-665-2022 

Dundalk - 519-923-2182 

Durham - 519-369-9911 

Holstein - 519-334-3132 

Markdale - 519-986-3692 

Osprey - 519-922-2333 

Paisley - 519-353-7220 

www.kidsandus.ca 

Kids Street Nursery School - Port Elgin 

519-389-9050 

Kinhuron Integrated Day Nursery School 

Co-op 

519-396-4532 

Kincardine 

Le Jardin des decouvertes - Owen Sound 

519-371-4411 

Military Family Resource Centre - Meaford 

519-538-1371 x6509 

mfrc.meaford@gmail.com 

www.cafconnection.ca/Meaford/Home.aspx 

Meaford Co-operative Nursery School 

519-538-3854 

Nawash N'Shiime Day Care Centre 

519-534-3909 

Neyaashiinigmiing (Cape Croker) 

OneList – Find and apply for child care 

brucecountychildcare.ca 

greycountychildcare.ca 

Queen of Hearts Nursery School 

109 Balmy Beach Rd., Owen Sound 

www.queenofheartsnurseryschool.com 

Sandbox Daycare - Hanover 

519-506-7263 

Saugeen First Nation G’Shaw-da-Gawin 

Day Care Centre 

519-797-2419 

gshawdagawin@bmts.com 

www.saugeenfirstnation.ca 

Saugeen Shores Childcare Centre 

519-832-2400 

Tobermory Primary Place 

519-596-2606 

Unity House - Owen Sound 

519-371-8686 


Viola Jean’s Garden Daycare - Owen Sound 

519-416-5633 or 519-371-2362 

Wiarton Kids Den Day Care/Kids Club 

School age Program 

519-534-4434 

Wiarton Nursery School 

519-534-2121 

Wooden Hill Child Care Centre (La Colline 

De Bois) at Notre Dame School 

519-376-6952 

Owen Sound 

YMCA Childcare 

Arran Tara - 519-376-0484 

Hanover - 519-364-4938 

Kincardine - 519-396-9622 

Owen Sound - 519-376-0484 

Port Elgin - 519-832-6225 

Ripley - 519-395-5570 

ymcaowensound.on.ca 

DIET/NUTRITION 

EatRight Ontario 

Ministry of Health Promotion and Sport 

1-877-510-5102; www.eatrightontario.ca 

Foodlink Grey Bruce 

Find locally grown meat, fruit and produce 

www.foodlinkgreybruce.com 

Good Food Box 


519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 



1-800-263-3456 



Owen Sound 


519-506-4348; www.hanoverfht.ca 


1-800-567-2384, 519-371-4773 


Ontario Student Nutrition Program Grey 

Bruce 

www.osnp.ca 

EDUCATION 

Academy of Learning - Owen Sound 

1077 2nd Ave. E., Suite B (2nd floor) 

519-371-6188 or www.academytraining.ca 

Adult Learning Centres 

Collingwood, Port Elgin, Markdale, Owen 

Sound, Walkerton, Wiarton 

www.adultlearningcentres.com 

Bluewater District School Board 

1-800-661-7509 or www.bwdsb.on.ca 

Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board 

519-364-5820 or www.bgcdsb.org 

Conseil Scolaire Catholique Providence 

(French Catholic School Board) 

1-888-768-2219; www.cscprovidence.ca 

Edgehill Country School, Durham 

www.edgehillschool.org 

Georgian Tutors 

www.georgiantutors.com 

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES 

JobsWork 

Aimee Kim, Job Developer, akim@clkd.ca 

519-396-9434 x223 

Leads Employment Services 

1051 2nd Ave. E Owen Sound 

1-866-955-3237 

www.leadsservices.com 

LiveGreyBruce 

www.livegreybruce.ca 

VPI Employment Strategies (Walkerton) 

519-881-4900 or 1-855-260-4900 

jobswalkerton@vpi-inc.com 

www.vpi-inc.com 

YMCA Employment Services 

1450 1st Ave. W., Suite 4A, Owen Sound 

519-371-9222 

employmentservices@ymcaowensound.on.ca 

FAMILY SUPPORT 

211 Ontario 

Online database of services in your area 

www.211ontario.ca 

Aspire Youth Services Inc. 

Ryan McLeod, CPT, RSW, MSW, CYC (BA) 

ryanmcleodplaytherapy@gmail.com 

aspireyouth.ca; 416-417-7098 

Big Brothers Big Sisters 

Owen Sound - 519-376-4449 

www.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/bbowensound 

Kincardine - 519-396-3565 

www.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/kincardine 

Bruce Grey Child and Family Services 

1-855-322-4453 

www.bgcfs.ca 

Bruce Grey Mentorship 

504 10th St., Suite 2, Hanover 

519-506-5065 

www.brucegreymentorship.ca 

Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation 

- Native Child Welfare - Cape Croker 

519-534-3818 

supervisor.ncw@gbtel.ca 

www.nawash.ca 

Counselling Bruce County 

616 Market St., Port Elgin 

519-266-3674 

www.counsellingbrucecounty.com 

EarlyON Child and Family Centres 

Chesley, Hanover, Kincardine, Markdale, 

Meaford, M’Wikwedong (Owen Sound), Owen 

Sound (East Ridge), Port Elgin, Thornbury, 

Wiarton 

1-800-616-8116 

Family Support Initiative 

519-371-4802; fsi@hopegb.org 

mhagb.ca 

Frontier Therapy 

www.frontiertherapy.ca 

Grandparent Network 

For grandparents raising grandchildren 

Meets first Monday of month at 9:30 a.m. 

Owen Sound 

Call Mary Nuckowski at 519-371-2498 

Grey Bruce Supervised Access Program 

519-371-5991; pc-superacc@bmts.com 

www.supervisedaccess.ca, Owen Sound 

Kids Help Phone 

1-800-668-6868 (24 hours) 

www.kidshelpphone.ca 

Multiples in Bruce 

For families with or expecting multiples 

http://multiplesinbrucecounty.webs.com 

Nemesis Group Services 

Owen Sound; 519-372-2425 

www.nemesisgroupservices.com 

Parent Help Line 

1-888-603-9100 

Penetangore Wellness 

Art and family therapy 

www.penetangorewellness.com 

Salvation Army 

Hanover - 519-364-3450 

Owen Sound - 519-371-0957 

Port Elgin - 519-389-3942 

Wiarton - 519-534-0353 

Victim Services Bruce Grey 

Perth 

Crisis: 1-866-376-9852; Admin: 1-888-577-3111 

info@victim-services.com; 

www.victim-services.com 

Victim/Witness Assistance Program 

1-866-259-4823 - Owen Sound 

1-866-994-9904 - Walkerton 

attorneygeneral@ontario.ca 

http://bit.ly/ujKyeE 

FINANCIAL SUPPORT 

Beaver Valley Outreach (Thornbury) 

519-599-2577; info@bvo.ca; www.bvo.ca 

Bruce Children are Special Foundation 

Directs donations to the children programs 

provided by Bruce Grey Child and Family 

Services (formerly Children’s Aid) 

1-855-322-4453 ext 4133 

Social Services 

Grey County - 1-800-265-3119 

www.grey.ca/health-social-services/ 

Owen Sound 

Bruce County - 1-800-265-3005 

www.brucecounty.on.ca/ontworks.php 

Walkerton 

United Way of Bruce Grey 

519-376-1560 or manager@unitedwaybg.com 

www.unitedwayofbrucegrey.com 

YMCA of Owen Sound and Grey/Bruce 

519-376-0484 or ymcaowensound.on.ca 


RESOURCES 

FOOD BANKS/HOUSING 

Beaver Valley Outreach - Thornbury 

519-599-2577, info@bvo.ca or www.bvo.ca 

Durham District Food Bank 

Monday and Friday, 9 a.m.-noon 

Flesherton and Area Food Bank 

Marian Doyle, 519-599-3576 

Kincardine Ministerial Food Bank 

519-396-2185 or circlek@bmts.com 

Lion’s Head and District Food Bank 

519-793-3860 or helen.rick@amtelecom.net 

Markdale and District Food Bank 

519-986-1432 

Meaford Food Bank 

519-538-4550 

Paisley Food Bank 

Immanuel Evangelical Mission Church 

307 Balaclava St.; 519-353-5270 (Carol) 

Salvation Army 

Hanover - 519-364-3450 

Owen Sound - 519-371-0957 

Port Elgin - 519-389-3942 

Tobermory Food Bank 

519-596-1501 

Walkerton and District Food Bank 

519-881-0168 

Wiarton Food Bank 

519-534-0353 

Habitat for Humanity Grey Bruce 

1-866-771-6776 or habitatos@bmts.com 

www.habitatgreybruce.com 

Ontario Tenants Rights 

ontariotenants@hotmail.com 

www.ontariotenants.ca 

Safe ‘n Sound Homelessness Initiative 

519-470-7233; www.safensoundgreybruce.com 

Subsidized housing 

Bruce County - 1-800-265-3022 

www.brucecounty.on.ca/socialhousing.php 

Grey County - 376-5744 

http://bit.ly/vVG1k0 

HEALTH CARE 

ActivEars Hearing Centres Inc. 

Owen Sound, Hanover, Durham 

226-784-3288 

www.activears.com 

Brockton and Area Family Health Team 

1-866-507-2021 or www.bafht.com 

Walkerton 

Canadian Mental Health Association 

Grey-Bruce Branch 

Administration - 519-371-3642 

Crisis: 1-877-470-5200 

jralph@cmhagb.org; www.cmhagb.org 

Collingwood General and Marine Hospital 

705-445-2550; www.cgmh.on.ca 

Connect Rehabilitation, Yoga and Fitness 

1100 16th Ave. E., Owen Sound 

admin@connectrehab.com; 519-372-2121 

www.connectrehab.com 

ConnexOntario Help Lines 

Drug and alcohol - 1-800-565-8603 

Gambling - 1-888-230-3505 

Mental health - 1-866-531-2600 

www.connexontario.ca 

Grey Bruce Health Services (hospitals) 

Lion’s Head - 519-793-3424 

Markdale - 519-986-3040 

Meaford - 519-538-1311 

Owen Sound - 519-376-2121 

Southampton - 797-3230 

Wiarton - 534-1260 

www.gbhs.on.ca 

Grey Bruce Health Unit - Owen Sound 

1-800-263-3456 



Hanover and District Hospital 

519-364-2340/info@hdhospital.ca 

www.hdhospital.ca 

Healthy Babies, Healthy Children 

519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 



519-506-4348 or dford@hanoverfht.ca 

www.hanoverfht.ca 

Healthy Smiles Ontario 

Dental for families making under $20,000/yr 

Register through the health unit 

Online: http://bit.ly/JAqJbY 

Honouring Life Network 

www.honouringlife.ca 

HopeGreyBruce - Owen Sound 

Mental Health and Addiction Services 

519-371-4120 or www.mhagb.ca/gbchc/ 


1-800-567-2384 or 519-371-4773 


Kids Help Phone (24 hours) 

1-800-668-6868 or www.kidshelpphone.ca 

Kincardine Family Health Team 

Kincardine - 519-396-2700 

Ripley - 519-395-2601 

www.kincardinefht.ca 

Mino Bimadsawin Health Centre 

57 Mason Dr., Saugeen First Nation 

519-797-3336 

M’Wikwedong Native Cultural Resource 

Centre - Owen Sound 

1-866-202-2068 or admin@mwikwedong.com 

www.mwikwedong.com 

Owen Sound Crisis Pregnancy Centre 

1-888-371-2004; oscpc@wightman.ca 

Pediatric clinics 

Hanover - 519-364-2340 

Kincardine - 519-396-3331 

Markdale - 519-986-3040 

Owen Sound - 519-376-2121 

Walkerton - 519-881-1220 

Penetangore Wellness 

www.penetangorewellness.com 

Poison Control Centre 

1-800-268-9017 

Postpartum depression 

Grey Bruce Health Unit - 1-800-263-3456 

Keystone Child, Youth and Family Services - 

1-800-567-2384 

Sensational Skills Occupational Therapy 

226 Queen St., Kincardine 

519-270-KIDZ (5439) 

ashleysimmonsot@gmail.com 

South Bruce Grey Health Centre (hospitals) 

Chesley - 519-363-2340 

Kincardine - 519-396-3331 

Durham - 519-369-2340 

Walkerton - 519-881-1220 

www.sbghc.on.ca 

South East Grey Community Health Centre 

55 Victoria St., Markdale 

519-986-2222 or 1-855-519-2220 

info@segchc.ca or www.segchc.ca 

St. John Ambulance First Aid training 

519-364-7004 or grey.bruce@on.sja.ca 

Online: http://bit.ly/t3Ye8g 

TeleHealth Ontario 

1-866-797-0007 

TVCC 

519-3370-0777 or 1-866-590-8822 

www.tvcc.on.ca 

LIBRARIES 

Blue Mountains Public Library/ 

L.E. Shore Memorial Library 

Thornbury 

519-599-3681 or thebluemountainslibrary.ca 

Bruce County Public Library 

opac.brucecounty.on.ca; 519-832-6935; 

libraryinfo@brucecounty.on.ca 

Cargill - 519-366-9990 

Chesley - 519-363-2239 

Kincardine - 519-396-3289 

Lion’s Head - 519-793-3844 

Lucknow - 519-528-3011 

Mildmay - 519-367-2814 

Paisley - 519-353-7225 

Port Elgin - 519-832-2201 

Ripley - 519-395-5919 

Sauble Beach - 519-422-1283 

Southampton - 519-797-3586 

Tara - 519-934-2626 

Teeswater - 519-392-6801 

Tiverton - 519-368-5655 

Tobermory - 519-596-2446 

Walkerton - 519-881-3240 

Wiarton - 519-534-2602 

Collingwood Public Library 

519-445-1571; www.collingwoodpubliclibrary.ca 

Dundalk/Southgate Public Library 

519-923-3248; http://southgate-library.com/ 

Grey Highlands Public Library 

Flesherton - 519-924-2241 

Kimberley - 519-599-6990 

Walter Harris Memorial Library (Markdale) - 

519-986-3436; greyhighlandspubliclibrary.com 


Hanover Public Library 

519-364-1420 or www.hanoverlibrary.ca 

Meaford Public Library 

519-538-1060 

www.meaford.ca/meaford-library-home.html 

Owen Sound and North Grey 

Union Public Library 

519-376-6623; www.owensound.library.on.ca 

West Grey Public Library system 

www.westgreylibrary.com 

Durham (main) branch - 519-369-2107 

Elmwood and area - 519-363-3321 

Neustadt - 519-799-5830 

Ayton/Normanby - 519-799-3242 

MUSEUMS 

Billy Bishop Heritage Museum - Owen Sound 

519-371-0031 or www.billybishop.org 

Bruce County Lighthouse Museums 

Cabot (Lion’s) Head - 519-795-7780 

Chantry Island (Southampton) - 866-318-8889 

Kincardine - 519-396-3468 

Point Clark - 519-395-2494 

Bruce County Museum, Cultural Centre & 

Archives - Southampton 

519-797-2080 or www.brucemuseum.ca 

Bruce Peninsula Visitors Centre 

519-596-2233 or http://bit.ly/rQQFf6 

Tobermory 

Bruce Power Visitors’ Centre 

519-361-7777; www.brucepower.com 

Chesley Heritage & Woodworking Museum 

519-363-9837 

Craigleith Heritage Depot - Thornbury 

519-599-3131 

www.thebluemountains.ca/Craigleith-Heritage-Depot.cfm 

Grey Roots Museum & Archives 

Includes county’s archives 

1-877-GREY ROOTS; www.greyroots.com 

RR4 Owen Sound 

Meaford Museum 

519-538-5974 

www.visitmeaford.com/meaford-museum.html 

Owen Sound Marine and Rail Museum 

519-371-3333 

www.marinerail.com 

Paddy Walker Heritage Society - Kincardine 

519-396-1850 

www.walkerhousekincardine.com 

South Grey Museum - Flesherton 

519-924-2843 or museum@greyhighlands.ca 

www.southgreymuseum.ca 

St. Edmunds Township Museum - Tobermory 

519-596-2479 or online http://bit.ly/vEdicK 

Tobermory Maritime Association 

519-596-2700; www.tobermorymaritime.ca 

Treasure Chest Museum - Paisley 

519-353-7176 or http://bit.ly/1PjTS1D 

NEWCOMER SERVICES 

Grey Bruce Settlement & Langauge Services 

519-371-9222 or settlement@osgb.ymca.ca 

ONLINE SUPPORT 

www.211.ca 

www.pathwaysawareness.org 

www.mentallyfit.ca 

www.shelternet.ca 

www.targetyouth.ca 

www.thehealthline.ca 

www.wesforyouthonline.ca 

PLAYGROUPS 

Grey Bruce Play 

Monthly inclusive playgroup 

Greybruceplay@gmail.com 

EarlyON Child and Family Centres 

Chesley, Paisley, Kincardine, Port Elgin, and 

Wiarton - 1-800-616-8116 

Hanover, Markdale, Meaford, M’Wikwedong 

(Owen Sound), Owen Sound (East Ridge), and 

Thornbury - 1-866-483-7774 

SPECIAL NEEDS 

Autism Ontario Grey Bruce Chapter 

226-787-0333 or marti@autismontario.com 

http://bit.ly/tO6kam; Owen Sound 

Autism Parent Support Group 

Community Living Kincardine & District 

519-396-9434 or www.clkd.ca 

Bruce County Children’s Services Resource 

Program 

1-800-265-3005 or www.brucecounty.on.ca 

Walkerton 

Bruce Peninsula (Wiarton) Association 

for Community Living 

519-534-0553 

Community Living Kincardine & District 

519-396-9434; www.clkd.ca 

Community Living Meaford 

519-538-4165 

Community Living Owen Sound 

and District 

519-371-9251 or communitylivingowensound.ca 

Community Living Walkerton & District 

519-881-3713 or www.clwalkerton.org 

Georgian Riding Association 

for Challenged Equestrians 

519-372-2721; grace@log.on.ca 

Wicklen Stables, RR5 Owen Sound 

Hope Haven Therapeutic Riding Centre 

519-986-1247; www.hopehavencentre.org 


Owen Sound; 1-800-567-2384 


PRANCE Therapeutic Riding Centre 

519-832-2522 or prance@bmts.com 

Miramichi Farms, Hwy. 21 Port Elgin 

Reading Rescue Ontario 

519-794-4745 or soehner@bmts.com 

www.readingrescueontario.ca 

Holland Centre 

South Grey Bruce Youth Literacy Council 

519-364-0008 or info@sgbyouthliteracy.org 

www.sgbyouthliteracy.org 

Hanover 

Special Therapy and Education 

Program of Saugeen (STEPS) 

519-797-1935 

info@stepsahead.ca; www.stepsahead.ca 

Southampton 

TVCC 

519-370-0777 or 1-866-590-8822 


United Way of Bruce Grey 

519-376-1560; unitedwaybg@bmts.com 

www.unitedwayofbrucegrey.com/ 

Owen Sound 

SPEECH/LANGUAGE 

Bruce County Childcare Services 

1-800-265-3005; www.brucecounty.on.ca 

Walkerton 

Closing the Gap Healthcare Group 

Rehab Express Grey Bruce 

1-866-990-9901 or www.closingthegap.ca 

Owen Sound 

South West Community Care Access Centre 

In-Home Services 

Owen Sound - 519-371-2112 

Walkerton - 519-881-1181 

www.sw.ccac-ont.ca 

TVCC 

519-370-0777 or 1-866-590-8822 


VOICE for Hearing Impaired Children 

Support, speech and language therapy 

Grey/Bruce chapter is free to families 

www.voicefordeafkids.com 

WISH PROGRAMS 

Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada 

1-800-267-9474 

on@childrenswish.ca or www.childrenswish.ca 

Ajax, ON 

Make-A-Wish - Southwestern Ontario Chapter 

519-471-4900 or www.makeawishswo.org 

London, ON GBK 


RECIPES 

Having fun with 

apple season! 

SPICED APPLE 

INGREDIENTS 

1¼ cups all-purpose flour 

1 cup quick-cooking (not instant) rolled oats 

1 cup packed brown sugar 

½ tsp baking soda 

¾ cup butter, softened 

Apple filling 

6 cups apples, diced (McIntosh, Empire or Ida Red) 

¾ cup packed brown sugar 

¾ cup apple cider or water 

1½ tsp cinnamon, ground 

½ tsp nutmeg, ground 

Pinch ground cloves 

INSTRUCTIONS 

In large bowl, mix together flour, oats, sugar and baking soda. Cut in 

butter with pastry blender until crumbly. Firmly press 3 cups into 9-inch 

square cake pan. Reserve remaining crumbs for top. 

Apple filling: In large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine apples, sugar, 

cider, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves; bring to boil over high heat. 

Reduce heat and simmer, for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, 

or until softened and thickened. Let cool slightly. Filling may be made 

ahead and refrigerated. 

Spread filling over base. Distribute reserved crumbs over top. Bake at 

350 F for 20 to 22 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm or at 

room temperature. 

WORMY APPLES 

For a Halloween treat, stuff apples with granola and chocolate 

chips before baking. Ida Red, Cortland or Northern Spy are 

good choices for baked apples because they hold their shape. 

INGREDIENTS 

6 apples, Ida Red, Cortland or Northern Spy 

½ cup granola 

¼ cup chocolate chips 

¼ tsp cinnamon 

2 tbsp butter 

1 cup apple juice 

6 gummy worms 

INSTRUCTIONS 

Remove cores from apples, leaving bottoms intact. Combine 

granola, chocolate chips and cinnamon. Cut butter into small 

pieces and work into mixture with fingers until combined; 

stuff into apples. Place in baking dish just large enough to hold 

apples; pour in apple juice. Bake, uncovered, at 350 F until 

apples are tender when pierced, 35 to 45 minutes. Let cool 

about 10 minutes. 

Tuck one end of each gummy worm into filling in each apple, 

leaving most of the worm dangling out. Serve warm. 

Recipes courtesy Foodland Ontario 


Rotary YMCA 

Camp Presqu’ile! 

One and two week overnight 

camp programs for children 

and youth aged 6-15. 

(10% sibling discount) 

teamwork 

friendship 

Registration opens in November 2023! 

Register by November 30th for early bird pricing. 

Register today at https://osgbymcareg.campbrainregistration.com/ 

Find more information check out our website 

www.ymcaowensound.on.ca/camps/camp-presquile/

GBK_Fall2023_Web

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