Little Local - April 16

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Spring is in full swing…longer days, everything blooming, and we’re spending way more time outside!

But with spring comes allergies. Two of my kids have been hit hard, and I keep wondering if I should be giving them medication daily or just as needed. And honestly, that’s just one of many health questions that pop into my head on any given day. As tempting as it is to get a quick answer from AI, I’d much rather ask experts I trust.

Sprout Family Health would love to host a free parent talk + Q&A for Little Local families.

We’d love your input on timing (and topics!) so tap your preference below 👇🏼

Have a topic you’d love covered? Add it as a comment in the poll: sleep, nutrition, behaviour, allergies, anything!

An Easy Weekend Away: Pender Island

If you’re looking for a local getaway with the kids, Pender Island is such a good one. The ferry ride is short if you can get a direct sailing, and spring is a really beautiful time to visit.

We stayed at WOODS on Pender in the “motel,” which was comfortable, clean, and cozy, and worked perfectly since we spent most of our time out exploring. Glamping in one of their Airstreams is also amazing and so fun with kids if you can snag one. We’ve stayed there before too and loved it! The Woods has a small on-site restaurant with fantastic pizzas and cocktails for dinner. And in the morning, they serve great coffee, pastries including cinnamon buns that are almost worth the trip to Pender alone!

Pender stops we love:

Pender Island Farmers’ Market: An enjoyable Saturday morning stroll and shop, operating year-round.

Nu-To-Yu Store: Such a fun little thrifting stop for the whole family.

Brooks Point Regional Park: A gorgeous walk through light forest out to a rocky bluff and beach. Perfect for beachcombing and general exploring.

Roesland, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve: A beautiful, easy walk with orchard views and a peaceful beach at the end.

Copper Otter Bar and Grill: An easy, casual dinner spot with tasty food and kids menu.

Have you been to Pender with the family? Tell me your favourite spots!

Camp Spotlight

How’s everyone doing with camp planning? I think most summer camps are open for registration now, so if you haven’t booked yet, it’s probably time to grab a spot.

If you’re trying to fill a specific week, you can search camps by WEEK in the Camp Planner, which makes it so much easier to see what’s still available.

👚 Thistle & Wren: A local favourite in Fernwood for kids’ clothing, toys, and books, with a beautifully curated preloved section that’s refreshed every Thursday. A great way to shop sustainably and score some really lovely pieces for your kids!

☀️ Camp Planner: Your one-stop spot for summer camp discovery and planning. Filter camps by week, provider, or interest, and map out your kids’ summer all in one place.

🩺 Sprout Family Health: A family-focused healthcare experience with one simple membership: unlimited Nurse Practitioner visits, same/next-day appointments, and on-demand RN support. Includes proactive care like annual assessments and a report card, developmental checks, and specialist access.

Upcoming

🎪 Sookarama Trade Show
Saturday, April 18 | 10am–3pm
A fun, community-style trade show with local vendors, activities, and plenty to explore. Great for a casual wander with the kids and a chance to discover some local businesses. [Info]

⚖️ Law Day at the Victoria Courthouse
Saturday, April 18 | 10:30am–2:30pm
Step inside the Victoria Courthouse on Burdett Ave for a behind-the-scenes look at how it all works. There are tours, a “Meet the Sheriff” station, and a fun Zootopia-themed mock trial where kids can be part of the jury. Free admission. [Info]

🎶 Kids Concert: Platypus Theatre – Bach to the Future
Saturday, April 18 | 3–5pm
A lively, interactive concert at UVic’s Farquhar Auditorium that brings classical music to life for kids with storytelling, humour, and a fun introduction to Bach and beyond. Just a few seats left! [Info]

🎨 Family Sunday: Black and White Sun
Sunday, April 19 | 2–4pm
A creative afternoon at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria with hands-on art activities inspired by current exhibitions. Drop in and let the kids explore and make. [Info]

🐸 Meet the Keeper: Frog Frenzy
Monday, April 20 | 11am–2pm
Get up close with fascinating frogs at Victoria Butterfly Gardens and learn from the keepers who care for them. [Info]

📚 Storytime at Swan Lake (with GVPL)
Friday, April 24 | 12–1pm
The Greater Victoria Public Library is hosting a free nature-themed storytime at Swan Lake Nature House (3873 Swan Lake Rd). Expect stories, songs, rhymes, and puppets, followed by social time and free play. Best for ages 1–5 (older siblings welcome). [Info]

Ongoing

🧱 20th Annual LEGO® Brick Exhibit at the Sidney Museum
Now – April 6
Marvel at incredible LEGO creations built by local and regional builders, with detailed displays that will impress kids and adults alike. A classic family favourite that’s easy to pair with a day in Sidney. [Info]

📸 Wildlife Photographer of the Year
On now
Award-winning nature photography from around the world at the Royal BC Museum. A stunning exhibit for all ages. [Info]

📚 Storytime at the Library
Multiple dates and times
An easy outing with stories, songs, and rhymes for little ones. Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. Check out our storytime timetable.

👶🏼 Kindergym + Play Groups
Multiple dates and times
Open play with toys, climbing, and space to run around! Great for toddlers and preschoolers (and a nice way to meet other parents). Check out our Kindergym & Play Groups timetable to find one near you.

Hope you enjoyed this issue of Little Local! Please reply with any feedback and suggestions :)

P.S. Would you like to get your business in front of thousands of local Victoria families? Email us at [email protected].

Final Note: I do my best to keep everything accurate, but I am only human so the odd mistake might sneak in! If you catch one, feel free to let me know.