We have had some wonderful snow recently. While playing, some children wanted to learn the art of “snowball making”. When ever in doubt, just throw snow. This is great until the snow goes down the neck!! We also learned that tears do not freeze in the Vancouver cold.

Embracing our multiculturalism, we celebrated Chinese New Year. The children were delighted when a mom came into our class and told us a story about a dragon. The children were curious about the ‘letters’ in the book. Fortunately she translated the story into English. Our parents and siblings were invited to see our mini dragon parade and listen to our song about Chinese New Year. It was a memorable time. (picture shows children painting dragon tail)

Now we are looking forward to Valentines day. I will be sharing some of the comments we hear about why we love …

Until then,
Barb

From Industry Canada’s website we lean that the “Community Access Program gives thousands of Canadians affordable access to the Internet in places like schools, community centres and libraries. It provides access to those people who might not have computers or Internet access in their homes or workplaces.”

As an intern for the CAP program I spend my time running tutorials and workshops which teach people computer and internet skills. When I’m not teaching lessons I’m a student at the University of British Columbia where I learn about ancient history and human cultures. I also love to hike and climb around Vancouver’s amazing outdoors.

I run one-on-one tutorials at Kitsilano Neighbourhood House, so if you have questions about computers come stop by. I can help out with anything from how to properly use a keyboard or e-mail and facebook to hardware problems and setting up your own website.

Follow my blog for updates on everything computer related from fun tips to whats happening in your community!

I still remember my first out-trip to Vancouver City Hall. I didn’t even know that I could go inside City Hall and get a tour. I was impressed to see and actually go inside the Council Chambers.

For me there are many good reasons to join an out-trip: meet other newcomers, make new friends, practice English (also with native speaker volunteers), learn about your community, find out how you can be more involved in the community and of course have lots of fun.

The out-trips will take you to places like Londsdale Quay in North Vancouver, Raven Song Community Health Center, Trout Lake, Granville Island or City Hall, just to name a few. It’s not so much about just going to these places. Often the people from Kitsilano Neighbourhood House would organize a guided tour so participants would get useful information that otherwise is not easy to find.

A social highlight at the end of each out-trip is having coffee and a bagel with all members of the group. Everyone gets a chance to practice English and to get to know each other better. Especially when you’re new to a country like me back in fall 2010, I found it very encouraging to meet other newcomers and to hear their stories. I made friends with many of the people I first met at the out-trips and we are still in touch today.

If you’d like to learn more about out-trips or register for the next out-trip – click here to get to the out-trips page.