Category: Elementary

Have you ever watched a movie, musical, or theatre production and wondered where the dancing or fight scenes come from?   This is the work of choreographers, entertainment industry professionals who use their love and passion for music and dance to create dance routines and other physical movement performances, then teach them to the actors, singers, dancers, and other people who will perform them.

Choreographers can work on television or movie productions, live theatre and musicals, or for dance and stage productions, and can create routines for single or duet performances, as well as chorus dancers or large groups of performers.  They can also work as dance instructors at all levels of experience, and for all different types of dance, from formal ballet to ballroom to modern dance.  They take a script or musical score and develop a routine that matches the lyrics or song to tell a story, evoke emotions, or otherwise interpret the music into a physical performance.

In many cases, formal education in choreography isn’t required; many choreographers begin their careers as dancers themselves, and over time begin to create routines for themselves and others.  However, it is common to participate in workshops or learn directly from a mentor in the industry to broaden one’s skillset and learn new techniques and movement styles.

Besides a strong understanding of music and body movement, choreographers need a creative mind, a great sense of rhythm, and strong interpersonal skills to work with many unique creative individuals at all levels of a production.  Choreographers also need strong time management skills in order to manage instruction, practices, and performance schedules with multiple participants, so that everyone is ready by the time a performance goes live.

There are choreographer jobs all across Canada, though the largest number and higher paying opportunities tend to be in larger towns and cities that have multiple theatre, dance, teaching, and performance businesses.  Cities with strong entertainment industries, such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, will have the greatest number and variety of job opportunities.

While some choreographers can be employed full-time by a theatre or other entertainment company, in many cases choreographers are hired as contractors for individual shows or productions.  This means that along with their choreography skills, they need to know how to operate as an independent business person, market themselves and their work, and manage their own bookings and work schedule.  This includes creating and keeping current a portfolio showcasing their dance and choreography work – relatively easy to do with a website and social media featuring performance videos – as well as general accounting and business management.

This is a great career path for those who love music, being creative, and creating art. Those who love working as part of a team will enjoy working with dancers to create dance routines. On the other hand, this is also a very physically demanding job. It can be very stressful to prepare performances, and freelance work can be very irregular.

The salary for a choreographer will vary depending on the type of job and whether it is a large or local production, but average earnings are around $50,000 to $60,000 yearly for experienced people.  Early career choreographers can expect to start out earning around $40,000, or around the provincial minimum hourly wage.

 

Sources

CareerExplorer. “What does a choreographer do?” https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/choreographer/

Get Into Theatre. “What Does a Choreographer Do?” https://getintotheatre.org/blog/what-does-a-choreographer-do-in-theatre

Glassdoor. “Choreographer Salaries in Canada.” https://www.glassdoor.ca/Salaries/choreographer-salary-SRCH_KO0,13.htm

Job Bank. “Choreographer.” https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/summary-occupation/5372/22437

The winter can be a difficult time for a lot of people with the events, stress, or perhaps you’re being reminded of old memories from past holidays. Whatever has you down this winter, here are a few ways to brighten up your spirit:

Focus on your family and friends! Connections and relationships are a huge part of the holiday’s and by spending time with your loved ones, you are bound to be cheered up quickly. Rather than getting caught up in the stress of the season, remind yourself of the good things, like the people in your life. Even if you don’t have a lot of time to spare, take a few minutes to go for a walk in the snow, put up decorations or bake with someone you care about. It’s the little things that can mean the most and can become the most memorable parts of the winter. Being alone too often causes people to be more upset, so getting out of your house with your family or inviting a friend over is a sure way to make you feel happier this winter. Indulge in family traditions and allow yourself to be nostalgic! Happy memories create joy in your life now and let you realize how lucky you are to have had those times.

Stay cozy! Take some time to relax; grab a book, a blanket, and sit by your fireplace. Get some warm hot chocolate or coffee and simply enjoy yourself. This is perhaps the best way to calm stress and can easily make you focus on the fact that the simple things are those of which make you feel the happiest. Even watching a winter or holiday-themed movie to make you feel grateful for this season.

Depending on where you live, another great part of the wintertime is the snow! This wonderful, picturesque thing is difficult not to love. Children building snowmen, making snow angels, snowball fights, even romantic walks in the snow! Spending time outdoors with refreshing air can make you feel happier in no time. Go skating, tobogganing, or for a walk in the beautiful snow. According to Time magazine, “Spending time outdoors…is one of the fastest ways to improve your health and happiness.” There are endless positive benefits to taking as little as a minute out of your busy day to go outside. It’s a simple and quick way to be happier this winter. Some people find this weather a nuisance, but rather than being quick to judge, find the good in it, the things that you enjoy about the snow, and about Winter!

If you’re a student, a teacher, or get anyone that gets a holiday break this season, there’s a great thing to look forward to! Getting a break from the chaos of school, work and the social aspects of them both is a great way to let go of your stress. You have lots of time to do the things that you love and time to rest before going back to work again, fully reset with lots of energy.

The New Year is the perfect excuse to reset and bring your attention to yourself, your life and your goals. Whatever has you stressed this season, try to relax and put your focus on the things that bring you joy. It can be difficult to do this when feelings are overwhelming you, but it’s important to focus on the good to be happier. Try taking a moment to focus on your life and the things that are important to you. Write down your goals and resolutions for the upcoming year. While doing this, you will realize the things that make you truly grateful about your life now and about the things that you would like to alter to make you happier next year.

There are countless good things in winter and easy ways to make you feel happy so long as you try. Try any one of these suggestions and you will no doubt feel happier this winter! Remember not to let yourself get caught up in the stress of the holidays and the weather but rather focus your attention on the things in your life that bring you joy.

References:

1. https://www.redfin.com/blog/26-things-that-make-winter-the-best-season-of-all/
2. https://www.theodysseyonline.com/8-reasons-love-snow

In winter, many volunteer opportunities slow down or end completely, but others can continue or even start up for the season. You might already help with summer camp or community centre programs that end when students return to school, but some programs continue throughout the winter. You can also find your own way to help. Volunteering can be a year-round activity for people who think creatively.

The type of volunteer gig you choose depends on many factors, including what is available, what you are able and willing to do, and more. If you live in a city, for example, your opportunities to help with anything involving farm animals will be few, while other types of volunteering will be limited if you live in the country. A community full of elderly people will have different needs from those in a neighbourhood with young families. If you can have a dependable ride or can take the bus to your volunteer work, you will have more opportunities than you otherwise might have.

The first step in volunteering is to look at what is available. If a nearby seniors’ residence is open for visitors, for example, you could spend time every week visiting elderly people and talking with them. Opportunities might also be available to work with children at community centres, as long as these places have not closed due to pandemic restrictions.

Helping to distribute food and other necessities to low-income people is another option. You could assist at a soup kitchen, serving food or handing out mittens and other gifts to the people who come for help. You could do this work with your family or a group of friends, on a regular basis or just occasionally. This type of work is good for people who are interested in helping but who might not have certain skills needed for other types of volunteering.

If you have the opportunity and skills, you might want to consider options related to teaching. Tutoring online is a good choice for anyone who has knowledge to share. You might want to use your abilities in mathematics, writing, or other areas. Tutoring online may be your only option these days, but you might eventually be able to meet with your students in person.

Writing is a good choice for any time of the year. You could volunteer to write for a local community paper or for another publication. If you want to write about your experiences in the pandemic or another topic that you know about, you might be able to build up enough experience to get paid work as a writer in the future.

In winter, the opportunities for gardening are very limited, but you can consider volunteering at a greenhouse if one is in your area. That way, you can learn important techniques for growing plants and helping to keep them healthy. Even if no greenhouses are nearby, you could help out at a florist’s shop or other place where you could work with plants.

Working with Habitat for Humanity’s winter activities or a sports event could be good if they are available in your area. Helping at a ReStore or volunteering at winter games can be rewarding.

A very necessary winter task in much of Canada is snow clearing. If you can handle cold temperatures and are strong enough to lift heavy loads of snow, you could consider volunteering to shovel snow for your neighbours, grandparents, or others. This work can be physically demanding but very useful, especially if you help people with health problems.

Many volunteer opportunities are available for people who look for them, but you might need to do some research. Whether you want to make connections with others or just want to fill some of your time, finding a volunteer gig for winter can be a good decision.

 

Bibliography:

Habitat for Humanity. “Volunteer Opportunities.” https://habitat.ca/en/volunteeropportunities.

Online ChristianColleges. “40 Creative Ways for Kids to Volunteer this Winter.” https://www.district205.net/cms/lib/IL01001003/Centricity/Domain/145/40_Creative_Ways_for_Kids_to_Volunteer_this_Winter.pdf

Sport Manitoba. “Become a Manitoba Games Volunteer!” https://www.sportmanitoba.ca/become-a-manitoba-games-volunteer/

Wells Fargo. “5 Ideas for Volunteering During the Winter Holidays. https://collegesteps.wf.com/ideas-volunteer-work-winter-holidays/.

 

Well, it’s official: Holiday time is just around the corner. With so much to look forward to, it’s perfectly normal to ring in the holidays with some holiday crafts! Did you know there are hundreds of inexpensive, simple things you can create with your family or friends? If you were wondering what to do this year, we’ve got a few ideas for you.

1. Handprint Santa

This adorable craft from The Best Ideas for Kids only requires six ingredients, none of which are dangerous to use. With a bit of cotton, felt, googly eyes and glue, you can make Santa’s face using only your handprint.

All you have to do is trace your hand, cut it out, and decorate it to look like jolly ol’ Saint Nick. You can craft his hat from red and white pieces of felt and create his face with googly eyes and a little red pom. A little cotton from the cotton balls will make up his beard, and there you have it!

These make terrific decorations for around the house or even for the tree. The best part is that the back of Santa’s face is blank, so you can make personalize messages.

2. Paper Snowman

This one comes to us from Easy, Peasy, and Fun. It’s an aptly named website because this craft is pretty much all of those things.

For this one, all you need are some different coloured paper, scissors, glue, cardstock, and a black marker. Roll some white paper into a tube and glue the ends together. You’ll want to do this three times to make the snowman’s body. Once the glue has dried, you want to then glue your tubes onto the cardstock.

The black and orange paper will create his hat and carrot nose. You’re more than welcome to decorate his hat however you see fit, which is where all the different kinds of paper comes in! From there, you can make your snowman’s face using your marker.

These are so easy to make, so you should definitely look into making more than one! Stick them up in your house or make one for each member of your family.

3. Pinecone Christmas Tree

Our final idea comes from PJs and Paint. A bit of paint, wooden stars, and a glue gun will turn an ordinary pinecone into a festive Christmas tree!

One of the best things about this craft is that you can really make your tree look exactly how you want. Once you paint the pinecone green (and let the paint dry) you can then go in and add snowy branches, lights, and stars to put on top.

Bear in mind that you’ll need a glue gun to get the stars on top of the pinecone. So, be sure to have an adult with you so you don’t accidentally hurt yourself.

These simple crafts will get you on the right track to welcome Santa to your home. Make as many as you want and fill your home with Christmas cheer!

https://pjsandpaint.com/crafts/pinecone-christmas-tree-craft/

https://www.easypeasyandfun.com/how-to-make-a-paper-snowman-craft/

https://www.thebestideasforkids.com/santa-handprint-craft/

By Rabia Khan

Autumn is the best time to go hiking, climbing, walking in the meadows and leaves, nature power walking, or just feeling nips in the air while snuggling into warm woolens. When the sky is clear and the sun shines brightest, you’re bound to jump with joy at your weekend plans. This season celebrates much-deserved time with loved ones and those outdoor activities that keep your soul alive.

Unwind Yourself in Nature

Camp at the foot of the mountains under the stars. Have a bonfire going while humming to mindful music with friends, and generally having a relaxing time. Get up at dawn, feeling the dew on your skin – the freshness of it all reinvigorates your mind and body.

Move Your Legs!

Of course, running or jogging is a wonderful way to enjoy the autumn air. It burns calories and you gives an awesome feeling of fitness.

Another fantastic way of doing cardio exercises is a corn maze. Race your family, friends, and loved ones in the crisp fall atmosphere.

You can hit the gym if you need a change, but believe me, it’s nothing like the outdoors.

Playing Games is Always Fun!

Play basketball, volleyball, or frisbee in the park. There are so many games to be played outdoors. You can play tennis or badminton with friends, or even go running with your dog. I am sure your furry friend will enjoy playing too.

Be Adventurous! 

For those adventurous geeks, hit the trail on a bike. That’s a lot of exercise for your legs and going to do you a world of good.

Stretch the Stress Away

There are also classes you can join for yoga, Pilates, tai chi, and more. There are so many stress busters to choose from.

Check Out a Farmer’s Market

There are also the farmer’s markets where you browse their fresh produce. This is a great way to get the nutrition your body needs.

Rev Your Engine!

If long drives excite you, then hit the road. If everything you’ve tried leaves you wanting more, there are plenty of scenic places to discover. There’s no dearth of spots to visit, so rev up your engine and take off down the highway.

Photograph Nature

Soaking in the sun’s warmness and painting the sky with your camera is a different vibe altogether. Click photographs of maple leaves, rustic roads, and the fragile branches of banyan trees running cold. Make a lifetime worth of memories this autumn!

Barbecuing!

It’s always fun to eat with family. This is the season to roast delectable chicken turkey in your farmhouse. Make this outdoor activity a little more interesting by picking fruits and vegetables with a loved one. You can even go fishing, and take a dive in the cool waters.

Build a Bonfire

A quick bonfire with a round of salsa dancing can make your autumn season full of love. Include your wildest and craziest friend circle to enjoy the weekend. Light up the woods with sticks and blow on the fire.

Go on a picnic. Go rock climbing. There are lots of things to do. Go for it!

Now that it is officially Autumn, what is a better way to celebrate than going outside to and enjoy it? If you don’t have any ideas of what to do to enjoy fall, don’t fret! We have you covered. Whether you want to be active, relax, or enjoy time with your family, we have ideas for all of it!

Try visiting a local farm. Most farms that are open to the public have fall-themed activities such as hay barrels, pumpkin patches, hay/tractor rides, corn mazes, and more! They usually also offer food such as candy apples and apple cider. Make it into a tradition and bring your family and friends. Farms can be a perfect place to spend a Fall day.

Perhaps the best way to celebrate fall with your family is to go apple picking. Apple picking has been a tradition in my family for years. There are numerous apple orchards all over the world so it’s easy to find one near you! Take a trip to your local orchard and have fun picking out the shiniest apples you see. Another idea is to make a treat out of them once you get home – try making apple pie, apple crumble or apple crisp- yummm.

If you are looking for a mellow way to enjoy Autumn, grab a book and a cup of your favourite warm drink and head outside. Find a cozy spot to relax, read, and breathe in the fresh air around you. Try doing this first thing in the morning. It can be a great way to relax and unwind before you begin your day.

Lastly, a definite way to enjoy is to plan a nice hike or picnic with your friends, family, or even by yourself! Find a trail or a path near you, bring some hot chocolate, and surround yourself with the vibrant colours. Bring your favourite snacks, wear a comfy sweater, and have fun.

If none of these ideas interest you, here are a few more: We suggest going for a run outdoors, making your own apple cider, decorating your house with Fall or Halloween decorations, buying a pumpkin-scented candle, making your own hot chocolate or baking your favourite Fall treat. I hope this helps you enjoy your Autumn and gives you fresh ideas of ways to make this Fall memorable and fun.

Sources:

1. 1. https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/entertainment/fall-activities

 

Your parents may be early birds and have already put the holiday tree out. Before long it’ll be the New Year, which is all about leaving the past behind and looking forward to the future. Now is a great time to start considering paying it forward through volunteer work.

With your schedule almost full to the brim with academic-related activities, as well as extra-curricular ones, it may be daunting to think about setting aside time to lend a hand to those in need. However, helping out less fortunate individuals offers rewards that no high grades and soccer match trophy can equal. Let us take a look at the benefits you can reap through volunteer work.

It helps you take up a cause.

You’re probably thinking you’re too young to worry about the serious stuff, but with so much happening in the world these days, that is enough to give you all the more reason for kids to get involved and help out in the best way you can. Do a self-examination and ask yourself, which aspect in today’s current events would you most like to see change or improve? Most likely, there are certain issues or subjects that you feel strongly about like the environment, homelessness, literacy, arts, sports, and others. Getting involved in volunteering activities for organizations that support these causes will put you on the right track.

It helps you bring insight to society.

These days when “fake news” can easily spread from one social networking site to another, it’s easy for others to fall prey to false information to certain causes like climate change being a hoax and others. Volunteering with organizations helps you become an instrument to spread the true word so other people are well-informed, not misinformed. It is a big responsibility indeed, but at the same time, you’ll feel fulfilled knowing that you are bringing awareness and therefore contributing insight to society.

It helps you become sociable.

If you’re the introverted type and get extremely shy and timid around people, volunteering can help you come out of your shell. You get to meet new people and socialize with them during volunteering activities. Even something as simple as putting up posters for your organization’s fundraising activity with your peers can turn you into a chatterbox. Because you know that you’re helping out for a cause that you’re passionate about, you become less conscious of yourself and focus more on raising awareness for your organization’s cause, therefore taking away the shyness. Once you set your mind more and more on the cause you’re supporting, your social anxiety will decrease less and less.

It helps you connect with like-minded people.

OK so maybe you’re the extrovert type and there’s never a party that you’re not invited to. However, let’s face it. While you may get along fine with your friends and classmates and you’re most likely to be Mr. or Ms. Popular on your school yearbook, you’ve got to admit that you’re finding yourself in the rut hanging out with the same people over and over again and talking about the same topics over and over again. You love “Riverdale,” but there’s got to be more in life than Netflix series, right? Joining a volunteer group can once again bring excitement to you since you get to meet people of all ages and spend a worthwhile time discussing about worthy causes.

It helps you prepare for your future career.

Of course, you still have years and years to get ready before you can join the workforce, but it’s never too early to have a good start. When you get involved in volunteering, you get a chance to develop skills that will help you become an efficient employee or an effective leader, such as collaboration and leadership. This way, when it’s time for you to start your career, you’re already well-prepared for it. In addition, having a volunteer experience in your resume can score you big points with the employers.

So now that you’ve gone through the pros of volunteer work, are you now more excited to explore volunteer opportunities within your community? Good luck!

SOURCES:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/palomacanterogomez/2018/12/06/proyecthiopia-4-best-tips-to-volunteer-for-change-and-not-for-the-picture/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/the-third-age/201403/5-reasons-why-you-should-volunteer

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-6480987/Find-20-000-joined-Helpforce-NHS-volunteer-campaign.html

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/volunteering-and-its-surprising-benefits.htm