May 21-27 (York)

May 20, 2026

Good morning York 👋 It's been a stunning, summer-teaser of a week. You'll start to see events really pick up in the coming weeks as we head into festival season.

In past summers, I've had loose plans and taken more of a wing-it approach — and then suddenly blinked and it was August. Also, as much as I want to let go of routine, I'm finding the kids still need some sense of structure in the summer months. So this year, I'm being a little more intentional about planning, while staying flexible for all the unplanned fun that always sneaks in.

I'm almost finished a day-trip guide that I've been using as a roadmap for our summer. I'll be sharing it here soon.

Have a lovely week! 🧡

P.S. I'll be biking the DVP for brain health on May 31st — join me on the ride or support me here 🚴

What York Region is Talking About

Medics Camp — The Camp for future Doctors & Scientists!
Medics Camp is a STEM.org accredited program (top 10% worldwide) for kids ages 6–12 with locations in Richmond Hill, Thornhill, and Markham that blends real medical tools, hands-on experiments, first aid skills, and healthcare career exploration into one unforgettable summer experience. Use code MAYHEM-MEDICS20 for $20 off — limited spots remaining!

RONA Kids Workshop — Registration Opens May 25 
Save the date — registration opens Monday, May 25 for the June 6th Butterfly Feeder Workshop at your local RONA store. A fun, hands-on activity for kids!

Vaughan Public Library Book Sale — May 24–30 
Bring your own regular-sized shopping bag and fill it for $10 — browse a wide selection of books and movies for all ages at the Vaughan Public Library Book Sale.

Canada's Wonderland FREE Pre-K Pass — Deadline May 31
Kids aged 3–5 can get unlimited visits to 22 Six Flags parks including Canada's Wonderland with a free Pre-K Pass. Must be registered online and activated at the park by May 31, 2026.

Doors Open Toronto — May 23 & 24 
Explore Toronto's most unique buildings and sites for free this weekend during Doors Open Toronto. Sites are open 10 AM–5 PM unless otherwise indicated. Kid-friendly highlights include TVO, Billy Bishop Airport, Fire Stations across the city, and the Toronto Humane Society.

Wellness Wednesdays: OT Is Not Just For Fine Motor Skills

Sponsored by our friends at The New Years

Many parents hear "Occupational Therapy" and think handwriting or fine motor skills. But Pediatric OT looks at so much more.

OTs support the foundational skills children need for everyday life — regulation, sensory processing, body awareness, motor coordination, feeding, play, and emotional regulation.

For one child, that might look like difficulty tolerating textures or struggling with transitions. For another, it could be constant movement, frequent meltdowns, or challenges with social activities.

At The New Years, their OTs take a whole-child approach — looking at how sensory, motor, emotional, and developmental systems work together. Families leave with practical strategies and a better understanding of their child's needs. And if you have extended health benefits, you likely have coverage.

If you're looking for a community too, check out The Parent Pause — a free drop-in every Monday from 10–11:30AM.

What to Do

Thursday, May 21

  • 🚛 Touch a Truck | FREE | Robert N. Shelton Operations Centre, Newmarket

Friday, May 22

Saturday, May 23

Sunday, May 24

Monday, May 25

  • ☕ The Parent Pause | FREE | Parents and babies | The New Years, Richmond Hill

Thanks for reading! See you back here, next Wednesday!

P.S. Want to get your business in front of thousands of local parents? Email us at [email protected] or reply to this newsletter.