How well-equipped is this city for those raising infants/toddlers? Specifically, are there public places to change diapers, maintained playgrounds, etc?

Edmonton is very well-equipped for those raising infants/toddlers. Major department stores and large retail chains offer facilities for parents to change and feed their infants. Washroom facilities include a table for changing and, on occasion, chairs for feeding.

Also, shopping malls and some stores provide free strollers for you to use while shopping. This is a great service to take advantage of, especially if your toddler gets tired of toddling or if you simply forgot to bring the stroller.
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Where can I get a list of reliable childcare providers/nannies?

Word of mouth is likely your best bet for finding the perfect childcare provider or nanny for your kids. Other options include your local phone book, the classifieds in your local newspaper or government publications which list child care providers in your community.

For further assistance or information, contact your Human Resources Director or Crown.
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Discuss any safety issues for children in this city.

Edmonton is a safe environment for children, though it is recommended that you speak to your local school to find out whether there are any particular concerns specific for your area. Children should always be accompanied and supervised by an adult and should never talk to strangers.
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What are the most popular kid-friendly attractions in the area?

Water parks, malls, amusement parks, paddle boat cruises and the zoo are just some of the many attractions that are of interest to children in Edmonton. Visit the Edmonton Information Center for more information.
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What are the most popular activities for kids after school or on weekends?

Kids in Calgary love to do the same things kids in other countries do, including:

  • watching their favorite shows on the television

  • playing sports in the neighborhood or on a local community team

  • joining a varsity or after-school team (hockey, football, soccer, chess, gymnastics, cheerleading, etc.)

  • playing games on the computer or on the television (i.e. Nintendo)

  • visiting amusement parks

  • visiting sports and game complexes

  • talking on the telephone with friends

  • taking music lessons

  • going to the movies or the mall

  • hanging out with their friends at each other’s homes.

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What's it like to be a teenager in this city? Are there any particular challenges I should be aware of as a parent?

The legal drinking age is 18. Young adults must show proof of age at places that serve alcohol. There are however, some night bars/clubs and raves that allow teenagers under the legal drinking age on designated nights called "all ages." These events give teenagers a non-alcoholic place to hang out, listen to music and dance.

Cigarettes are not sold to minors under 18 years of age and gambling is prohibited for those under the age of 18. The government has drug, alcohol, gambling, smoking and gang awareness programs available for teenagers, as well as informational brochures available for parents.
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Are there any organizations/social groups in the area that cater exclusively to young people ages 12-17?

Schools provide programs outside the normal school hours called extracurricular activities. These include cheerleading, chess club, band club, yearbook committee, debate club, athletic council, student council, drama club, fund-raising committee and numerous sporting clubs. These activities are funded by taxpayers' dollars, and as such, most require no additional costs. However, some school clubs require parents to pay the cost of the uniforms.

There are also many programs available for children to take lessons in swimming, gymnastics, hockey, judo, karate and soccer, just to name a few.
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I want my child to get the most out of our stay in this country. Are there any specific opportunities to teach young people about the local culture?

Edmonton's sense of joie de vivre is even evident in children as there are so many cultures, food, entertainment, people, languages and events surrounding them in this city. So basically, if you immerse your children in some of the organizations, extracurricular activities, festivals and events available to them, they will surely learn about local culture(s).
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.