by Jenny Cates, PCC | May 12, 2026 | Uncategorized
A recent report highlighted by CBC News has sparked an important conversation across Canada: are boys “systemically disadvantaged” in our school systems? In the coverage, a Quebec report suggests that boys are falling behind academically—but voices...
by Jenny Cates, PCC | May 12, 2026 | Uncategorized
There’s been a lot of conversation lately around the new expectations coming into Ontario schools, especially when it comes to attendance, engagement, and accountability. And honestly… it’s bringing up some important truths that we’ve been skirting around for a while....
by Jenny Cates, PCC | Jan 25, 2026 | family, parenting, schools, Uncategorized, youth
Snow days often arrive like a quiet gift. The world slows, routines pause, and there’s an invitation—sometimes unspoken—to soften our pace. While they’re often framed as “missed productivity,” snow days actually offer powerful benefits for mental health, nervous...
by Jenny Cates, PCC | Dec 27, 2025 | family, forest schooled, mindfulness, parenting, Uncategorized, youth
Winter can feel cozy at first — gingerbread smells, family time, and holiday lights — but once the festive buzz fades, many kids (and grown-ups!) can notice a shift in mood. Shorter days, colder weather, and the return to school routines can affect emotions in ways...
by Jenny Cates, PCC | Dec 19, 2025 | family, holiday, mindfulness, parenting, Uncategorized, youth
The holidays can be magical — and overwhelming. Bright lights, new experiences, family gatherings, and disrupted routines can stir up huge emotions in kids of all ages. When expectations run high and schedules shift, children sometimes struggle to make sense...
by Jenny Cates, PCC | Oct 7, 2025 | parenting, Uncategorized, youth
There are moments as a parent when the hardest conversations come from the simplest questions. Recently, my daughter asked me something that stopped me in my tracks:“If someone doesn’t like another person because of their race, do you hate them for it?” I paused....
