Do you find that, as you get older, it seems tougher to make new friends and connections with others your own age? I sure find that to be true sometimes, especially living in a city where I didn’t grow up or go to school. Kids are lucky because they have so many chances to connect with one another. They get to know other children through playtime, at daycare or school, and during sports and leisure activities. Plus, they are often just less shy to reach out and make a new friend.
As we get older, it may not be as easy for us to connect with others. But guess what? As a parent, you already have many things in common with other parents, and common ground is a lot of help when it comes to developing new connections. So go ahead, take the plunge this fall! Come out to the numerous Family Matters programs and activities we have planned especially for you and meet some other English-speaking parents living in the area.
First off, come out and say hi to us and meet other families at VEQ’s Fall Fest on Saturday, September 24. After a two-year pause, we’re excited to let you know that this wonderful community event for the whole family is back on! This year, the Family Matters team of the Wellness Centre will be running family field games and a motor skills course for kids on the field. Be sure to stop by and say hi to Jarryd and me!
Next, put it on your calendar to join Jarryd, our WE Dads Community Animator, and me at the Parents’ Night Out: Pizza Planning Party on Thursday, September 29 at 6:00 p.m. Each year, the volunteer parents of EPIQ (English-speaking Parents in Québec) host a variety of activities for families or even just parents who could use a night out without the kiddos. In 
the past, parent-led events have included activities such as hikes, pumpkin patch outings, apple picking, tobogganing, spa outings, nights out on the town and cooking classes.
All EPIQ events, either with or without the kids, are led by volunteer parents like you, but we’re here to support you and help spread the word. Parents, sign-up here to attend the Parents’ night out: Pizza Planning Party and help EPIQ plan for the coming year. Register soon because space is limited.
Stay tuned for more exciting programming starting this fall to get more involved and connected with other English-speaking parents. The 2022-’23 lineup for our WE Dads activities will be out soon, as will the EPIQ schedule for the year.
Hoping to see you out and about this fall. Until then, I wish you a wonderful wrap up to your summer.
Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator
Best regards,
Jessica
