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Category: Featured Articles

  • The Dangers of Always Being on Social Media and How to Beat the Addiction (French version available)

    The Dangers of Always Being on Social Media and How to Beat the Addiction (French version available)

    There’s no doubt that social media is addictive. From seeing what friends or celebrities/influencers are doing to watching the “likes” increase on your latest post, these without a doubt can be enjoyable pastimes. Generally speaking, checking social media isn’t necessarily unhealthy (depending on everyone’s individual situation), as many use it for multiple purposes that could be beneficial, e.g. keeping in touch with loved ones living far away. However, it’s still important that you’re aware of its other implications.

    Consider the following questions: Have you ever found yourself continuously scrolling through your social media feed(s) without realizing hours have passed? Throughout the day, do you constantly have the urge to reach for your device and see if anything new has been posted?

    If you’re concerned about the dangers of excessive social media usage, here’s some information about them and ways you can beat the addiction:

    What Are The Dangers?

    It Could Negatively Impact Your Mental Health

    One of the most glaring issues surrounding this topic is how it can affect people’s mental health. Oftentimes, seeing others putting their best moments on social media may spark feelings of insecurity and the need to compare their lives to our own. But also, seeing the negative posted as well as the positive could seriously dampen a person’s mood, especially if they’re consuming it on a regular basis.

    Although many networking sites, such as Facebook, have put some measures in place to hinder anyone from publishing harmful content online, they aren’t perfect and can’t remove every single post nor closely monitor an organization’s or individual’s activity all the time. Plus, the fact that these platforms make it so simple to do so doesn’t help. This situation essentially shows that it’s inevitable for users to be exposed to negativity.

    Many Attribute Sleep Deprivation to Using Social Media

    The depressing thoughts we have could follow us into the night, likely disrupting our sleeping habits and leading to a lack of crucial energy.

    Overall, checking mobile devices just before going to sleep is not a healthy routine either. It’s not just how much time is spent on social media, but also at what time of day you consume the content. Think of the circumstances this way: Why are we stimulating our minds during these hours when we should be relaxing and winding down to get some rest? Everyone needs sleep in order to function properly throughout the day.

    How Does One Beat the Addiction?

    Take a Good Look at Your Social Media Consumption Habits

    The initial step to solving any issue is acknowledging the issue. Social media has become such a normal part of our day-to-day existence that sometimes, there doesn’t appear to be anything inherently wrong. This is where exercising awareness comes into play. We must hold ourselves accountable and ensure social media won’t permeate our lives in a way that diminishes the quality of how we engage with everyday activities or interactions that occur offline.

    Keep Track of the Time You Spend on It

    Going on social media via their apps is extremely popular as it is the most convenient method of access. There are plenty of apps available for downloading that can track how long you spend on social media. Each app will have its own helpful features. Try different ones and see which works best for you.

    You Could Delete Your Social Media Apps from Your Device(s)

    Temporarily deleting the apps from your phone, tablet, etc. is a good option to prevent the temptation of checking, as you’ll know the apps won’t be there.

    In Extreme Cases, Deleting Your Account(s) Might Be the Best Option

    In cases where the suggestions stated above don’t work, deleting some of your accounts might even be the best way to beat the addiction. Think of it as starting fresh. Removing social media from your life could give you the push you need to effectively address the addiction.

     

    References

    health essentials. “Put the Phone Away! 3 Reasons Why Looking At It Before Bed Is A Bad Habit.” 3 Reasons Screen Time Before Bed is Harmful – Cleveland Clinic.

    Schimmele, Christopher, et al. “Canadians’ assessments of social media in their lives.” Canadians’ assessments of social media in their lives (statcan.gc.ca).

  • What do I do if I think I have Asperger’s Syndrome or ADHD? A look at the symptoms of each and steps you can take to get professional help, especially if you are nervous. (French version available)

    What do I do if I think I have Asperger’s Syndrome or ADHD? A look at the symptoms of each and steps you can take to get professional help, especially if you are nervous. (French version available)

    By Bhargavi Venkataraman

    What is Asperger’s Syndrome?

    Asperger’s syndrome is a developmental disorder that is characterized by difficulty with connecting with others socially, as well as inflexible and repetitive behaviours and thinking patterns.

    Although children and teens with Asperger’s are generally able to converse with others and perform in school settings optimally, they have trouble when it comes to nuanced social situations and forms of communication (e.g. body language and sarcasm).

    Lastly, those with Asperger’s can get fixated on a specific topic or set of interests to the point that the obsession interferes with their normal lives. Although many people still use Asperger’s to refer to this syndrome, it is important to note that its name has been officially changed, and it is now part of a condition called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

    What is ADHD? 

    Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prominent neurodevelopmental disorders in children. It is characterized by difficulty with paying attention, managing impulsive tendencies, and hyperactivity. There are three key presentations of this disorder:

    1. Predominantly Inattentive Presentation – The individual has trouble with:
      • Completing a task 
      • Paying attention to details 
      • Keeping up with instructions and conversations
    2. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation – The individual has trouble with:
      • Sitting still 
      • Paying attention 
      • Listening to directions 
      • Controlling impulsivity
    3. Combined Presentation – The individual displays symptoms of the other two presentation types equally.

    Although the causes and risk-factors of ADHD cannot be fully explained, genetics, brain injury, alcohol/drug use during pregnancy, and low-birth weight are all thought to play key contributing factors.

    It is critical to note that, despite commonly held views, research shows that excessive sugar intake, television watching, poor parenting, or other social/environmental conditions do not cause ADHD.

    Getting a Diagnosis 

    Diagnosis for both of these disorders should be made by professionals. If you, your parents, teachers, or peers frequently notice any of the above symptoms, it is recommended that you seek these professionals for additional guidance. 

    Some options include pediatricians, child psychologists or psychiatrists, neurologists, and therapists. They can help find ways to cope and manage symptoms, build a support system, and consider potential treatment options.

    Getting Treatment for Asperger’s Syndrome

    For Asperger’s syndrome, individuals could consider social skills training and occupational therapy to learn basic life skills, and educational therapies for a more structured education curriculum. 

    There is also a range of behavioural and communication therapies to aid in the social, language, and behavioural issues associated with Asperger’s and medications.

    Getting Treatment for ADHD 

    For ADHD, the main treatment course involves a personalized combination of medication, educational and skills training, and formal psychological counselling. 

    Common types of medication prescribed include stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine, non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, and specific antidepressants like bupropion.

    Common types of psychotherapies are cognitive behavioural therapy and family/marital therapy, so that the individual’s loved ones can better learn to support them.

    Finally, it is vital to recognize that both the disease causes and treatment plans differ largely according to the individual’s personal background, preferences, and overall situation. Although there is no “cure” for either disorder, it is important to recognize that they are treatable. Early diagnosis and action are crucial in making the treatment process better. Remember that both conditions vary according to the individual’s personal background, preferences, and overall situation. Building a good support system with friends, family, and helpful professionals will help. Keeping a positive mindset and knowing that there are options out there is key!

     

    Resources

    1. Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)—Diagnosis and treatment—Mayo Clinic. (2018, January 6). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350883
    2. Asperger’s Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment. (n.d.). Retrieved September 3, 2022, from https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/aspergers-syndrome
    3. Autism spectrum disorder—Diagnosis and treatment—Mayo Clinic. (2019, June 22). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/autism-spectrum-disorder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352934
  • Career Profile: Singer (French version available)

    Career Profile: Singer (French version available)

    By Julia Skoczypiec

    Do you enjoy singing? Whether you put on stadium-worthy performances in the shower or hum along to your favourite tunes in the car, everyone’s a little bit of a singer in one way or another. But have you ever considered a career as a singer? If so, it is not as daunting as many make it seem.

    Singers are trained musical professionals who perform at various venues in many different styles. Some singing styles include opera, jazz, pop, hip-hop, and country. While many often associate singers with celebrity status, there are career opportunities for singers in Canada that pay the bills without having to walk the red carpet. From larger live events like wedding receptions, musicals, orchestras, and outdoor festivals, to more private performances at birthday parties and restaurants, singers work in many diverse locations to entertain vast audiences.

    Most of the time, singers work on their own schedules and travel to different locations every week. These are the main pros of the career. However, a self-made schedule comes with a lot of responsibilities. Singers constantly market themselves through social media, interviews, and websites to find and book singing ‘gigs’ (or performances). Many singers also work in studios to record songs for distribution by record labels. While working hours vary, singers usually perform on weekdays, holidays, and at night. These can be cons to the career as hours are irregular. Also, finding performance venues and audiences can become challenging and impact a singer’s overall income.

    Singers can also work as music teachers. In this way, singers often avoid self-employment and work in one location — such as a school, a music academy, or privately in their own homes. In doing so, a singer’s income and working hours become more regular. Those who work as teachers are required to know proper singing techniques and music theory. As a result, a bachelor’s degree in music from a college or university is often required.

    While postsecondary education is not essential for singers who perform in venues like restaurants and weddings, further education is necessary for those who perform in orchestras, classical music choirs, or in plays and musicals put on by professional theatre companies. Some bachelor’s degrees and diplomas in music are more theory-based, meaning you study sheet music reading and high-level techniques. These are great for classical and jazz-style singers. Other programs are more performance-based. These often include singing, dancing, and acting all in one program.

    The average hourly rate for singers in Canada is $52. Annually, this equates to approximately $107,000. However, this amount can vary depending on the number of gigs a singer performs during the year. For singers who are music teachers, the average salary is $60,000.

    Singers often work closely with instrumentalists, composers, producers, and other singers. This means that before any performances, singers must set time aside for rehearsals. While rehearsing is often time-consuming and tiresome, it is through collaborations with other artists that singers are able to advance in their careers and connect with broader audiences. Through continuous practice, singers are able to challenge their own vocal abilities and meet personal goals that only come from the joys of performing.

     

    Sources

    Economic Research Institute. “Singer Salary in Canada.” https://www.erieri.com/salary/job/singer/canada.

    Indeed. “What Is a Singing Career? 11 Careers in the Singing Industry.” https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/singing-career.

    Talent.com. “Music Teacher average salary in Canada 2022.” https://ca.talent.com/salary?job=music+teacher.

    Your Free Career Test. “What does a Singer do?” https://www.yourfreecareertest.com/singer/.

  • How to Start Thinking About Your Future Career (French version available)

    How to Start Thinking About Your Future Career (French version available)

    “What do you want to be when you grow up?”  This is a question nearly every young person has been asked at some point by family, friends, or teachers.  For many teens and young adults, this is a question to which they don’t yet have an answer.  That’s okay!

    It can be hard to decide so early in your life what you want to do for your career.  Many students reach high school, and even college or university, without knowing what they want their career to be in the long term.

    But you can’t simply ignore the question and hope for the best.  It is important to give your future career some thought because that way, you will have a goal to work towards when it comes to other parts of your life, particularly your education.

    Assess Your Skills and Interests

    The first step is taking a look at your existing skills and interests.  There are lots of self-assessment quizzes available online or through your school’s guidance office. Most feature a series of questions to answer, which will help to illuminate your strongest interests and skills and show how these align with possible jobs and career paths.

    You can also simply spend time thinking through on your own.  Do you prefer writing assignments or solving math problems?  Are you energetic and physically active, or do you prefer quiet, relaxed activities?  Do you like being in large groups of people, or do you work better in small groups or solo?  What are your favourite hobbies or extracurricular activities?  What are the things you’re most interested in: nature, sports, books, video games, dancing, building things, or perhaps outer space?

    Figuring out what grabs your attention and imagination and won’t let go is a good starting place to determine your future career.

    Speak with Your School Guidance Office

    High schools, colleges, and universities all have guidance offices for exactly this reason. They offer counsellors to speak to, as well as tons of reference materials about different careers, industries, and the educational and skill requirements to work in specific jobs.  They may also be able to direct you to local career and hiring fairs, where you can speak with people from many different businesses and industries to learn about jobs in those fields.

    Talk to People

    Often, students are only exposed to the careers of people in their immediate circle, including family members and school staff.  Try to find people whom you can ask about their career – these can be friends of your relatives, your friends’ parents, or adults you know through places you spend time in, such as libraries, sports, and extracurricular activities.  You can also find co-op placements through your school that will give you the opportunity to experience different types of jobs, so you can get a feel for what you might enjoy.

    Visit Your Local Library

    Public libraries have an entire section dedicated to career planning, and will almost certainly have books targeted at teens and young adults that tackle the future career question.  You can also explore fiction and nonfiction books featuring characters in different careers, to get a sense of what those careers might be like.

    Picture Your Future Lifestyle

    Deciding what you want your life to look like can also help you narrow down possible careers.  Do you want to live in a town or a city?  What about another country?  Would you like a large house or condo, or somewhere cozy?  Do you want a new car every few years, or would you be happy with the same vehicle for a decade?  Would you travel regularly, or stay local?

    Your answers to these questions will help guide you to careers that will support the lifestyle you want, whether you want something high-earning, middle-class, or a career that lets you travel the world.  Just remember not to get too caught up in the money side of things, as finding a career that you enjoy is still the ideal goal.

    Don’t Be Afraid to Take Your Time Deciding

    It may seem like you have to make a decision right away, but you don’t!  Take as much time as you need to investigate possible careers and find the path that’s right for you.  Just be sure to make good use of your time by researching careers, developing a variety of strong skills, and seeking out as many exciting experiences as you can.

     

    Sources:

    CollegeBoard. “5 Ways to Find Career Ideas.” https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/get-started/know-yourself/5-ways-to-find-career-ideas.

    Indeed. “Career Exploration Activities: How to Help Your Students Find Jobs They’ll Love.” https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/career-exploration-activities.

    Stockwell, Carly. “How to Choose a Career.” College Factual. https://students.collegefactual.com/choosing-a-career.

    Weishaar, Christina. “5 Ways to Help High School Students Pick a Career.” Connections Academy. https://www.connectionsacademy.com/support/resources/article/5-ways-help-high-school-students-pick-careers.

  • What is the 15-Minute City Concept? (French version available)

    What is the 15-Minute City Concept? (French version available)

    What is a 15-Minute City?

    The 15-minute city concept allows citizens to access their essential needs within a 15-minute walk. Many Canadian cities, including Ottawa, Edmonton, and Victoria, have implemented this concept into city development plans.

    In 2021, Ottawa identified nine important necessities:

    • Bus stops
    • Childcare facilities
    • Grocery stores
    • Health services
    • LRT stations (light rail transit, such as subways)
    • Parks
    • Recreation facilities (such as community centres)
    • Retail stores
    • Schools

    These are all places planned to be accessible within a 15-minute walk.

    However, Ottawa also recognizes that these nine resources will not be evenly distributed across the region. High-access areas will ideally have seven to nine resources from that list, while low-access areas will unfortunately have one to three.

    A 2022 study from Simon Fraser University in British Columbia also echoed this fact: 79% of Vancouver’s population has a grocery store within a 15-minute walking radius, but far fewer areas across the region would meet this requirement.

    Like any concept, there are pros and cons. A 15-minute city sounds great on the surface, but it all depends on the plan’s execution by governments. City planners need to weigh the concept’s benefits against its potential negative consequences.

    15-Minute City as a Positive Force

    A 15-minute city’s opposite counterpart is urban sprawl. Where a 15-minute city seeks to make communities and resources closer, urban sprawl widens the distance between them.

    Urban sprawl expands cities, meaning that as cities get larger, people need to travel longer distances. This also means that urban sprawl is a large contributor to climate change: it is the largest factor behind greenhouse gas emissions in Ottawa.

    The largest benefit of a 15-minute city is its potential to lessen the impacts of climate change.

    Fifteen-minute cities combat climate change by lessening dependency on electricity and gas. By reducing the amount of time and distance needed to reach essentials, more environmentally friendly transit options can be considered.

    The key is to reduce the need for cars: car rides are usually seen as an option for longer, more inaccessible trips. By providing most of the people’s everyday needs within a short distance, fewer people may want to use their cars for this purpose.

    15-Minute City as a Negative Force

    While the resistance against climate change impacts makes 15-minute cities attractive, the idea fails to consider many other important points. The core concept was modelled after European cities: many of these cities were built before the car was invented.

    City planners cannot simply include solutions everywhere in cities without investing in neighbourhoods.

    Many cities have inequality built into their original plans – think of many of Canada’s Chinatowns, for example. The communities were built up by Chinese labourers, a group who were largely excluded by Canadian society.

    The 15-minute city concept cannot accommodate all regions in its current state. City planners need to find ways to include underserved areas without further worsening inequalities.

    The 15-minute city concept presents itself as a great combatant against climate change, but it should be discussed with caution. 15-minute cities should not be implemented without considering the potential impacts on minority groups and how current city structures need to be overhauled.

     

    Sources:

    Gomez, Michelle. “Vancouver Close to Achieving ‘15-Minute City’ Status, SFU Study Finds.” CBC News, 23 May 2022, https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/vancouver-15-minute-city-1.6463022.

    Mannie, Kathryn. “The Rise and Fall of Chinatown: The Hidden History of Displacement You Were Never Told.” Global News, 26 May 2022, https://globalnews.ca/news/8793341/chinatown-history-toronto-vancouver-montreal-canada/.

    O’Sullivan, Feargus. “Where the ‘15-Minute City’ Falls Short.” Bloomberg, 2 Mar. 2021, https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-02/the-downsides-of-a-15-minute-city.

  • Should I Take Courses Over the Summers to Finish My Degree Sooner? A Look at Pros and Cons (French version available)

    Should I Take Courses Over the Summers to Finish My Degree Sooner? A Look at Pros and Cons (French version available)

    Summer is a season that’s usually associated with taking a break and having fun. For university students, this could be the case, but it could also mean having a job or a volunteer position. Some also continue taking courses to finish their degree sooner.

    If you’re considering going back to the classroom over the summer, here’s a look at the pros and cons of doing so:

    Pros

    Campuses Will Be Less Crowded

    As one would expect, not as many students take classes over the summer, so your campus will most likely be much quieter than usual. This is beneficial if you prefer to work on assignments or study on campus rather than at home.

    Many Students Tend to Take Fewer Classes During the Summer

    Many students don’t take as many courses during the summer as they do in other semesters. Though it depends on how much is required of you for each course, if you take only one or two as opposed to the usual three or four, this means you might be able to relax more and solely focus on assignments. As a result, you may achieve a higher grade in the class(es) than if you were to take it another time.

    However, by all means, pursue a full course-load if you feel as though you’re ready for it.

    Cons

    You Could Feel Burnt Out During the Summer

    Even though there’s a good chance that you’ll have a lighter academic workload over the summer, this could also lead to burnout (or even more of a burnout) if you endured a very stressful school year. Taking classes might not allow you to receive the rest you need. Though it’s tempting to take courses to finish your degree sooner, it’s also critical that you don’t pressure yourself to do so if you know exhaustion/feeling overwhelmed remains an inevitable outcome. Often, people neglect their health to maintain a certain amount of productivity, which is highly discouraged.

    It Would Take Time Away from Things You’re Pursuing in Your Personal Life

    If there’s anything that you’re actively working on in your personal life, whether it be a project, relationships with others and/or your overall well-being, taking summer courses could interfere. Everyone’s situation is different, and maybe you’re able to juggle school with these other endeavours, but sometimes it’s best to just use the season for enjoyment.

    Remember, you should take your health into account and what you can handle if you’re seriously considering taking summer courses. Some questions you could ask yourself are:

    • “How important is it to me that I finish my degree sooner?”
    • “Would it be better if I took my time to consider other options while I’m still a student, like pursuing work experience opportunities offered through school?” (if you haven’t done so already)
    • “Would it do me some good if I took the semester off?

    Overall, if you continue to be honest with yourself and reflect on what’s stated above, you’ll be on the right track to making the best choice for what you’ll be doing during the summer.

  • Tips to Know Who To Vote For in an Election (French version available)

    Tips to Know Who To Vote For in an Election (French version available)

    By Avreet Jagdev

    As citizens, we have the duty to be civically involved. Civic involvement means staying involved in your community in a way that makes a difference — this can be through political or non-political ways. Examples include volunteering, staying informed on what is going on in your community, and donating to your local food bank. One of the most important aspects of civic engagement is voting.

    Voting is an absolute essential part of democracy. It is what gives ordinary people the power to choose who governs them. When you vote, you get to have your voice heard and make a difference in how your community and country are run.

    However, with this power can come some pressure. It can be difficult and overwhelming to know who to vote for. So how do you make an informed voting decision?

    1. Stay informed

    It is important to stay informed, not just during elections, but between them as well. Do your best to have some general knowledge on what is going on in your community, country, and around the globe. When the next election rolls around, you will already have a lot of information to base your vote on.

    Staying informed doesn’t have to be stressful! It can be as simple as turning on the news channel when you’re doing your chores or reading an article on your commute to school.

    1. Talk to friends and family.

    Although some families have the rule of “no politics at the dinner table”, talking to your family and friends can help you decide who to vote for. They might not always share the same views as you, but having discussions (and maybe even debates) on political issues can help develop your own views, which will make it easier for you to make your decision on who to vote for.

    1. Do your research

    As the election draws nearer, make sure to do your research on the candidates running in your area. Most candidates will have websites where you can read about them and their specific platforms. It can also help to watch debates and read or listen to interviews.

    1. Reach out to candidates

    If you have specific questions or concerns that a candidate hasn’t touched on in their platform, try reaching out to them! You should be able to find their contact information on their website. Candidates usually have entire teams of people who help answer these questions so that voters can make well-informed choices.

    1. Use an online tool like VoteCompass

    Some online tools, such as VoteCompass, can help you decide who to vote for by asking you questions and showing you how your answers align with different candidates or parties. If you’re completely stuck, this can be a good place to start!

    It can be overwhelming to decide who to vote for, especially when it’s your first time. However, following these tips can help make the process a whole lot easier.  At the end of the day, remember to vote for someone who represents your values and what matters to you.

  • Profiling a Career as a Teaching Assistant (French version available)

    Profiling a Career as a Teaching Assistant (French version available)

    If you enjoy learning, sharing knowledge, and working with children, you’ve probably considered a career in education. But you may not be aware of the wide range of opportunities available in that field. Many administrators, librarians, advisors, and assistants support teachers in their daily duties. Perhaps the specific role of a classroom teacher isn’t appealing to you. That’s okay! And it certainly doesn’t mean a career in education is unattainable. Use this profile to gain insight into another great option: a career as a teaching assistant.

    Roles and Responsibilities

    Teaching assistants support teachers with a variety of classroom duties (e.g., creating lesson plans, facilitating learning activities, evaluating students, etc.). They can work in public and private school boards, special education centres, and other educational settings.

    As a teaching assistant, you may be responsible for any of the following tasks:

    • Preparing the classroom (e.g., setting up equipment, operating assistive technology, etc.)
    • Grading assignments, tests, and/or presentations and recording student progress
    • Supervising students during lunch, recess, and other breaks

    Required Training and Education  

    To be a teaching assistant, you must complete a secondary school diploma and a college program ranging from 10 months to 2 years in length (depending on your province and local institutions). Some schools may also request First Aid and CPR certification or Nonviolent Crisis Intervention training.

    If you want to work specifically with students with disabilities, additional training may be required. For example, it could be beneficial to pursue courses in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) or Developmental Support Services. You may also require additional training depending on the level of education you want to work at (i.e., in primary or secondary school).

    Benefits of A Career as a Teaching Assistant

    If you’re easily bored by a repetitive routine, this career is perfect for you. For a teaching assistant, every day is a little different. You might support students with academic subjects like maths and science one day and work on art projects the next. Sometimes you might help in the school library, while other times you could be asked to supervise field trips. Each day will bring a change of focus and pace.

    Another significant benefit is the emotional satisfaction that can come from this job. If you like working with children, this career could be ideal. You will have the opportunity to participate in learning and recreational activities without the pressure of being a classroom teacher. Rather than taking the lead during lessons and projects, you can take a step back and spend your time providing extra support to the students who need it. It can be very rewarding to bond with them and know that you’re making a difference in their school experience.

    Earnings and Career Prospects

    The starting salary for teaching assistants is about $45,000 per year. With more experience and education, your salary can increase. The average teaching assistant in Canada earns approximately $58,400 annually, while the most experienced workers make more than $69,200.

    The demand for teaching assistants is expected to stay consistent over the next few years. By 2028, there will be almost an even number of job seekers compared to job opportunities, which means that the field may be slightly competitive. As the world of education continues to grow and evolve, teaching assistants will remain a valuable resource to the school system.

    Drawbacks and Challenges

    There are drawbacks to this career choice. As a teaching assistant, you will likely be responsible for supporting students with emotional and behavioural challenges. It can be a strain when children act out or refuse to follow instructions. It can also be emotionally draining to support students with troubled families, mental health problems, or other sources of stress in their lives. While it may be rewarding to help students, teaching assistants can burn out if they push themselves too hard.

    This career can be particularly difficult for someone who likes a consistent schedule. Teaching assistants often fill multiple roles at once – teaching, supervising, navigating classroom technology, distributing learning materials, etc. The environment is fast-paced and requires a strong ability to multi-task and adapt. If you want a calm, predictable career, this one may not be for you.

    What Are My Other Options?  

    While training to be a teaching assistant, you will likely develop competencies in teaching and facilitating, multitasking, time management, and organization. You may also gain functional knowledge related to disabilities, developmental psychology, assistive technology, and school subjects like math and science. You could apply these skills and areas of knowledge to the following career paths:

    • Developmental services worker
    • Child and youth worker
    • Administrative assistant
    • Classroom teacher
    • Librarian or library clerk

    Additional training and credentials may be required.

     

    Sources

    Government of Canada. Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS). http://occupations.esdc.gc.ca/sppc-cops/occupationsummarydetail.jsp?tid=151&

    Indeed for Employers. How to Write a Teacher Assistant Job Description: Top Duties and Requirements. https://ca.indeed.com/hire/job-description/teacher-assistant?gclid=Cj0KCQiA9OiPBhCOARIsAI0y71DUPhFoo33wqXDW6GsZEQuxzBZ6F_Eo1THOo2GfXw6voPEBoKpmxKMaAqQbEALw_wcB&aceid=

    OCAS. Education/Teaching Assistant. Ontariocolleges.ca. https://www.ontariocolleges.ca/en/programs/education-community-and-social-services/education-teaching-teaching-assistant

    Talent.com. Teaching Assistant average salary in Canada. https://ca.talent.com/salary?job=teaching+assistant

    The Training Room. 7 Perks of Being a Teaching Assistant. https://www.thetrainingroom.com/blog/education-and-teaching/november-2018/7-perks-of-being-a-teaching-assistant#

    Training.org. Stresses and strains of being a teaching assistant. https://www.1training.org/blog/stresses-strains-teaching-assistant/

  • The Water Crisis Plaguing Indigenous Reservations Across Canada: How You Can Help (French version available)

    The Water Crisis Plaguing Indigenous Reservations Across Canada: How You Can Help (French version available)

    Picture this: you live in Canada, which is often advertised and perceived as being one of the safest countries, rich in resources and many beneficial aspects such as access to free healthcare. In fact, in 2020, Canada was ranked as one of the countries with the highest quality of life in the world (Hazan 2020). Based on such presumptions, one can reasonably assume that all Canadian citizens have access to basic human rights such as clean drinking water, right? Unfortunately, this is not the case. For the majority of Indigenous reservations across Canada, gaining access to clean water is not easy at all. Many have been on drinking water advisories for decades, meaning they have to filter out of boiling water even if they want something as simple as a drink. 

    Problems with Water Quality

    Water is often filled with parasites, viruses, or extremely harmful bacteria such as E.coli. In 2016, the University of Saskatchewan conducted a review of studies conducted between 2000 and 2015, which found many common health concerns caused by the lack of clean drinking water – including skin problems such as sores, rashes and eczema, birth defects, and gastrointestinal illnesses. This is a problem that has gone uncared for and unheard of for decades, with communities such as Southern Ontario’s Neskantaga having to use water advisories since 1995.

    It was not until 2015 that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau vowed to end this crisis by March 2021, despite it having gone ignored for much longer. According to the Indigenous Foundation, this deadline has since been pushed back to 2026, with over 51 drinking water advisories still in place on Indigenous reservations across Canada. This has had a number of devastating impacts – Indigenous people are unable to access water not only as a human right but as a spiritual, cultural component of their lives. Because reservations are often remote, the government only gives a certain amount of money to these communities to fund their resources. When the water systems fail, they are extremely expensive to fix. Either way, there’s no easy or simple way for those on reservations to get the help that they need.

    Donate: There are many organizations (many Indigenous-owned) that are dedicated to assisting Indigenous communities with the water crisis, including True North Aid, Water First, and Water for People Canada. In some cases, you can donate directly to Indigenous communities, as they have their own individual charities. There are also many organizations dedicated not only to the water crisis on reserves but also to the housing or mental health crises as well, including Honouring Indigenous Peoples and Habitat for Humanity.  Below, I have included the links to some of the charities for this issue. 

    Spread Awareness: One of the main things that all of us can do in order to end water advisories and hopefully end unclean drinking water on Indigenous reservations is spread awareness about it. You’d be surprised at how many people are unaware of this issue; they do not help because they do not even know there is an issue at hand in the first place. Do some research, learn about this issue and where it started. Post about it on social media, whether it be sharing someone else’s post or creating your own digital content and sharing it on your social media platforms. Maybe you can create digital posters and hang them around your school. Remember, education is the gateway to awareness, and awareness is what leads to action.

    Write a Letter: At the end of the day, the main source of enforcement towards fixing this issue will be the Canadian government. As there does not seem to be much awareness towards this issue, one thing that the government can definitely do is talk about this issue more – don’t keep it under wraps. As Canadian citizens, it is up to us to help one another. I have seen many foundations and websites talk about the importance of words and their impact, especially on those of people in positions of power. Write a letter to the Prime Minister, letting him know that it is time for this problem to end; that much more must be done in order to ensure that all Indigenous communities have safe drinking water. We must prioritize this issue; in fact, this should not even be an issue in the first place.

     

    Works Cited

    Goldfinger, Daina. “‘An ongoing symbol of colonization’: How bad water affects First Nations’ health.” Global News, 30 September 2021, https://globalnews.ca/news/8199988/first-nations-water-crisis-health-effects/.

    Hazan, Jeremy. “Canada Has Ranked #1 in the World For Best Quality of Life.” Narcity, Narcity Media Group, 13 November 2020, https://www.narcity.com/canada-has-ranked-1-in-the-world-for-best-quality-of-life.

    Leyland, Cecco. “ Dozens of Canada’s First Nations lack drinking water: ‘Unacceptable in a country so rich.’” The Guardian, Guardian News and Media Limited, 30 April 2021, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/apr/30/canada-first-nations-justin-trudeau-drinking-water.

    Luo Xue, Carina. “The Water Crisis in Canada’s First Nations Communities.” ArcGIS StoryMaps, 14 November 2021, https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/52a5610cca604175b8fb35bccf165f96.

    McDonald, Kasey et al. “Lack of Clean Drinking Water in Indigenous communities.” The Indigenous Foundation. https://www.theindigenousfoundation.org/articles/lack-of-clean-drinking-water-in-indigenous-communities.

     

    Charity Links:

    True North Aid: https://truenorthaid.ca/

    Water for People Canada: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/water-for-people-canada-de-leau-pour-tous-canada/

    Water First: https://waterfirst.ngo/

  • Tips for Going Vegetarian & How It Can Better Your Health and the Planet (French version available)

    Tips for Going Vegetarian & How It Can Better Your Health and the Planet (French version available)

    By Avreet Jagdev

    People choose to go vegetarian for many reasons – some do so for their religion, others for health purposes, and some for the animals and the environment. No matter what your reasons may be, being vegetarian has a multitude of benefits — not only for your health, but for the world around you as well.

    Harvard research shows that since vegetarians consume less saturated fat and cholesterol than those who have meat in their diets, they are at less of a risk of heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes.

    That’s not all — being vegetarian is good for the environment and can, in fact, help slow climate change, reduce water pollution, and reduce wildlife habitat destruction and deforestation. Raising livestock leads to a very large amount of greenhouse gases, which contribute to global warming; a reduced demand for meat decreases livestock production, which means that these harmful emissions are reduced as well.

    However, it’s a big change to make, especially if you are accustomed to eating meat. This can make it difficult and intimidating to know where or how to start. Here are some tips to make the process a little bit easier:

    Start by going meatless a couple of days of the week

    Instead of going vegetarian overnight, try choosing a couple of days of the week where you don’t eat meat (like Meatless Monday)! This will make the process easier and less intimidating. As you become more accustomed to not eating meat, you can add more and more meatless days until it eventually becomes all seven days of the week!

    Cutting out one thing at a time

    Similar to the last tip, don’t feel pressured to cut all meat out of your diet at once. Instead, try taking small steps by cutting out one type of meat at a time. For example, you can start by limiting how much red meat you eat. Once you become used to this, you can cut out chicken, and so on.

    Get creative with your recipes.

    The good news is, almost any one of your favourite meat dishes can be made vegetarian or even vegan! Get creative with your plant-based alternatives. Instead of chicken, try seitan or shredded tofu. Experiment with different brands of vegan ground beef for your favourite taco recipe until you find what works best!

    Use this as an opportunity to branch out

    On another note, instead of sticking to meat-based recipes, use your new diet as an opportunity to branch out completely. Many cultures around the world have primarily vegetarian cuisines or cuisines that are super vegetarian-friendly, such as in South Asia. Try your hand at cooking a traditional vegetarian recipe from a new cultural cuisine!

    When eating out, don’t be afraid to ask for modifications

    Eating out can be anxiety-inducing for someone who is a new vegetarian, but know that servers and chefs are more than used to accommodating requests, and most of them will happily swap out a meat-based component of an item for a vegetarian one! All you have to do is ask.

    Don’t be too harsh on yourself.

    Lastly, don’t be too harsh on yourself. Switching to a plant-based diet is a large task, and it’s normal for you to have your ups and downs. The most important thing is that you stick to it!