Mother plans to publish book of family-friendly businesses

Shopping is normally a pretty simple task.

But throw a minivan full of children into the mix, and it’s a different story. Store options shrink and welcoming smiles can turn into frowns.

Kimberly Schick-Puddicombe thinks she can help.

The mother of two young children in Devon is compiling a list of family-friendly businesses that she plans to publish in The ‘Little Black Book’ for busy families.

“It’s always hard for moms to know where to do their local errands, or where there might be a cool new place,” explained Schick-Puddicombe, who has a background in marketing, sales and new businesses.

Her book, which is due out in October, will offer family-friendly suggestions for across the province — including Central Alberta.

“In Red Deer we’ve got some really neat things, like Beaners (Fun Cuts For Kids),” said Schick-Puddicombe, who also listed Once Upon A Child and Discovery Wildlife Park at Innisfail as other local examples.

The directory will contain a variety of other information, such as family-friendly events and venues, said Schick-Puddicombe.

An online directory has already been established, which will continue to be updated even after the book comes out.

She’s optimistic parents will still buy the book because of the convenience it offers. It’d be a handy addition to a vehicle glovebox, and should be easier to use than the online alternative.

“Especially if you have kids.”

By last week, Schick-Puddicombe had already presold 350 copies of The ‘Little Black Book’ for busy families. She expects them to be available at book stores, Alberta Motor Association outlets and visitor information centres.

The idea for the book arose in 2005, when Schick-Puddicombe saw a similar publication from New Zealand. Discussions with friends and others convinced her the resource was needed here as well.

A challenge she now faces is getting information about family-friendly opportunities from across Alberta. She’s currently seeking entries for a Top 10 Fabulous Family Friendly Business contest, with entrants eligible for prizes.

In addition to businesses, including accommodations and restaurants, she’s looking for feedback on festivals, camps, classes, green products, health care services, and non-profit organizations.

Entries will be accepted until Aug. 29.

“If every parent shared one place with us, think of all the extra information everyone would have.”

Schick-Puddicombe hopes The ‘Little Black Book’ for busy families will become an annual publication, and would like to expand the idea to other provinces.

Information about the book and its online version can be found at www.MomsDadsandKids.com. For contest information, click on Fun Finding Across Alberta.

Contact Harley Richards at hrichards@reddeeradvocate.com