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(Referring to previous versions of this guidebook, published by Lobster Press
in 1998 & 2000, as well as a self-published version in 1997)
"The Lobster Kids' Guide To Exploring Montréal"
Parents, no matter how super, can't remember everything all the time. That's why guides like the recently released 12 Months Of Fun! The Lobster Kids' Guide To Exploring Montreal can be invaluable. This well-researched book is the ideal resource for families in search of new fun activities or as a reminder of great attractions that may have been forgotten. It presents Montreal as a wondrous playground waiting to be discovered, so why not tear the kids away from the television and get going! This book certainly deserves a three-lobster rating. It is the most comprehensive guide I have ever seen of its kind and features many well-known attractions such as the Biodome and Westmount Park in addition to lesser-known but intriguing places like the Firefighter's Museum or the beehives at Intermiel near Mirabel. Geared toward parents who are looking for kid-friendly activities, this guide lists everything from attractions and museums to parks, pools, libraries, and skating rinks, rating each activity for fun and interest. The meticulously researched enteries include cost, hours, detailed directions for access by car, bike and public transit, as well as notes on facilities of special interest to families, like diaper-changing areas and stroller rentals. The descriptions are thorough and entertaining, and it is clear that Symon has experienced these sites for himself ( in the odd case where he hasn't, he tells you so.) Packed with well-organized information, supplemented by a good index, and packaged in a pleasant format, this book should soon find its way into knapsacks, strollers and diaper-bags across the city. Montréal for Kids. How often have parents found themselves in a quandary travelling with children? Mommy, I'm bored! There's nothing to do in Montréal and why was I dragged here against my will? I would rather be home playing with my friends or hanging out with my boyfriend.
As a parent of three children I can well appreciate the feeling. Well folks, don't fret. Montréal is a fun place for kids as well as adults.
Lobster Kids' Guide to Exploring Montréal The Lobster Kids' Guide to Exploring Montréal is written by John Symon and published by Lobster Press. As indicated by the author of the soft bound book, it was written for families with children ages 1 to 12 but you don't have to be a kid to use it, just a kid at heart. In fact, I would add that teenagers as well as adults would find many of the sights described in the book to be extremely interesting and entertaining.
The beginning of the book gives you a rating system where the author and his wife have rated the various sights according to the enjoyment level for children, the learning opportunities for children, the sight's accessibility from downtown and finally the costs and value for money. You will also find icons used throughout the book indicating such queries as wheelchair/stroller accessibility, first aid, ice cream stand, picnic tables, parking, etc. The explanation of these icons is found within the first few pages of the book.
The organization of the book is very well planned as we notice from the table of contents. The 12 chapters divide the sites into local attractions, Old Montréal and the Old Port, museums, neighbourhood sites, places to play, places to learn, music and theatre, farms and zoos, green spaces, historical sites, getting to the locations, sights outside of the city proper.
From the very beginning of the book we are informed of the Insectarium that is a museum dedicated to insects. The author points out that there is a wealth of information on insect ecology and their behaviour. The live tarantulas and scorpions found in the museum are sure to satisfy the curiosity of many kids although I am not so sure if it would be appealing to many of the adult folk!
There is a description of many other museums such as the Marsil Museum that is dedicated to costume, textiles and fibres. There are even children's workshops and costumes to try on. This should be a fun place to visit!
We are also informed of activities for rainy days such as indoor rock climbing where you have tarzan swings. Incidentally, the centre referred to is Horizon Roc, Canada's largest indoor climbing centre.
A very practical feature of the book is each short chapter indicates the directions to the site, phone numbers, admission fees, and public transportation directions as well as driving directions. Furthermore, you have an indication as to what other interesting sights are nearby. There are also the author's comments pertaining to such matters as wheelchair accessibility or how much time should be allotted to the visit. "Guide Homard Explorez Montréal Avec Vos Enfants"
Des activities pour tous les gouts, toutes les bourses, toutes les saisons et qui nécessitent un déplacement d'au maximum une heure en voiture de Montréal. Un outil qui facilite les loisirs et les sorties en famille, avec plus de 150 expéditions à effectuer avec des enfants au fil des quatre saisons. Your book is famous in our household and I have recommended it to literally hundreds of people!! We have all 3 editions (one is spiral bound) and the one for Ottawa too! They are all well worn!! :->
You can call or come meet with me at our place any time. We have 2 boys who are 4 and 5 yrs old and have boundless energy. I also organise many activities for the families in our association and am always interested in talking about kid oriented activities.
Coordonnatrice Association des mères lesbiennes du Québec
Coordinator Lesbian Mothers Association of Quebec
www.aml-lma.org info@aml-lma.org
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Last updated: January 29, 2008 This website best viewed in 1024x768 or higher. Entire contents © 2006-2009 by John Symon. Website created by Marc Proulx. |
How to Contact Us Tel: (514) 935-4537
Email: john@montrealwithkids.com