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5 Uses For Hand Spinners

Reading Time:  4 minutes -

One of the newest toys growing in popularity are “Hand Spinners”, also known as “Fidget Spinners” or “Finger Spinners”. We are selling these like crazy at the Canada Trading Company and the Fun Factory on Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, so for those that don’t understand the significance and benefits of them, here is a list of 5 uses for Hand Spinners. 

#1 Relieves Anxiety

A “Hand Spinner” is a device that you hold with your thumb and index finger in the center bearing. They generally have 3 prongs that you spin with any finger as you grip it firmly in place (there is no wrong way to use it). The hand spinner comes from ancient Tibetan meditation traditions. They believed that it had a calming effect on the mind, body, and soul.

It relieves anxiety because as you become nervous, many people begin to soothe themselves outwardly by biting their nails, fiddling with their rings, tapping their fingers, or playing with their hair or jewelry. Spinning this tool allows your mind to become more focused on distracting habits, which in turn will slowly put your mind at ease and calm yourself down.

#2 Relieves Boredom

How many of you have been waiting at the doctor’s office, been on a montonous conference call, or have been sitting for hours in a lecture hall, and you’d prefer to be doing anything else but sitting there? This is the optimal time to get out the hand spinner and quitely pass the time with a slight distraction. One the most common acts of boredom and fidgeting is to bounce one’s leg repeatedly. Using a hand spinner is a better tool to use in order to be less of a distraction to others, and a more effective means of not drawing attention to yourself in times when it’s obvious you’d rather disengage from the moment.

#3 Mild Relief For ADHD, Anxiety, and Autism

The Hand Spinner can provide mild distraction and calming relief for adults or children with these characteristics and/or various mental disorders. Children especially with ADHD often squirm or bounce while sitting, have difficulty staying seated, and generally have a difficult time playing quietly. The Hand Spinner assists in this by providing a calming relief.
Its ergonomical shape easily fits in the hand, and the three spinning inserts work wonders for a person with nervous and fidgety motions. They simply move their fingers over the spinners, or by just grasping it in the palm of their hand to help to regain focus and composure. For mild panic disorder sufferers it may eliminate a temporary need for medication.

#4 They Assist In Breaking Bad Habits

Many people have bad habitual reactions to stressful factors in their life that they wish to break. “Onychophagia” is an actual medical term used when describing someone with an excessive need to nail bite. Mental health experts categorize this as a milder version of OCD. It’s not only a bad habit, but it’s unsanitary as well. This goes alongside with people that pick their skin or pull their hair when under stress or boredom. The use of a Hand Spinner can help to alleviate bad habits — this can even go as far as helping those of us that turn to smoking, excessive eating, or even coffee drinking as a source of stress relief.

#5 Keep You Alert

I’m sure we have all heard at some time or another about someone that fell asleep behind the wheel. It’s no joke that Hand Spinners provide enough mind stimulation that this tiny tool can help you to stay alert. Some of you may be asking why you would play with that while driving, but keep in mind that many of us generally drive with one hand, while the other is on our lap, smoking a cigarette, or having a sip of something to drink.

For workers who suffer from stress due to workload, commuters suffering from personal issues that occupy their mind while driving, the overtired parent, and people who drive for hours on end as part of thier jobs, this is one object where they can actually let out their frustration in a productive manner. You are forced to stay alert and focused on the task at hand (literally). Fidgeting with the spinner makes you pay more attention to the surroundings by boosting memory, focus and creativity.

Steel Bearing Hand Spinners sold at the Canada Trading Company and Fun Factory for $9.99(+HST)

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas at the Canada Trading Company

Reading Time:  3 minutes -

With so many souvenirs and gifts to choose from, everything at the Canada Trading Company could be for mom. Here is just a small list of some current items that we have for sale that mom would love.
Also Read: 10 Things To Do In Niagara Falls With Mom This Mother’s Day
Quiz: All About Moms: Mother’s Day Trivia

Infinity Scarves


These Lavello Infinity Scarves feature an array of patterns with animal prints and various other colour splashes. Each scarf measures 44cm x 152cm. Made from qualtiy lightweight 100% polyester. Back of card illustrates ways to wear.

LUG Bags and Accessories


For the busy mom and traveller on the go! LUG produces bags that are convenient and conventional. They come with magnetic and zip closures, ventilated compartments, hidden water bottle pockets, detachable mirrors, and many more handy tools. We feature a wide variety of options.

ALEX AND ANI Mother’s Day Collection Bracelets


The perfect gift for mom is any one of these bracelets made by ALEX AND ANI.
Every product contains symbols featured that carry their own positive energy, and are accompanied by carefully crafted and meticulously researched meaning. Each design is intended to empower the wearer and reflect the unique qualities of the individual.

Mom Coffee Mugs and Ceramic Keepsake Dishes


These mugs and dishes feature fresh and modern colors coupled with a sweet sentiment that makes these pieces the perfect little something for mom this Mother’s Day.

Butterfly Magnets


Mom will love these beautiful and colourful 3D-simulated Butterfly fridge magnets. They add a pop of life to the home decor!

Assorted Teas


You name it, we have it! From regular teas, to herbal teas, to even Icewine teas…we have it at the Canada Trading Company. Come and choose from our displays of different flavours of this Canadian favourite.

Rembrandt Charms


Newest to the Canada Trading Company are these great and classic collectible gifts for mom that are fashionable and affordable charms. Rembrandt makes these charms in Sterling Silver, Gold Plate, 10 Karat Yellow Gold, 14 Karat Yellow Gold, and 14 Karat White Gold.

 

3 Popular Niagara Falls Gift Shops

Reading Time:  3 minutes -

Travelling to Niagara Falls brings millions of people to this city each year. Everyone wants to catch a glimpse of one of the natural wonders of the world, and after their visit to this city, they want to bring a piece of their stay home with them.
Whether it be a uniquely Canadian piece, or a strictly Niagara Falls-based souvenir, here are three of the most popular Niagara Falls gift shops that specialize in producing and selling quality merchandise for the traveller.

#1 Canadian Treasures

Where: Located in the Table Rock Centre, 6650 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls 

Hours: Daily (except Christmas Day) varied dependent on the season (9:00 am – 6:00 to 11:00 pm)

Pre-packaged, easy to store in luggage products are the best-sellers. These are things that are unique to Canada such as Canadian prints from local artists, maple syrup and maple syrup cookies, and Canada or Niagara Falls printed t-shirts and sweatshirts.

The store has a surplus of everything that is relevant to Canada. Native carvings and collectibles, Royal Canadian Mounted Police souvenirs, jewellery and glassware are just a few products sold here.

For the traveller on the go looking to buy in bulk, they love the sale items like the “3 for $9.99” boxes of Maple Cookies. They are cheap, purely Canadian and the perfect gift for friends and co-workers.

This stores prides itself on environmentally friendly products such as: organic clothing products like bamboo t-shirts and recycled cotton tote bags and recycled and biodegradable plastics and paper products. All their green products are labeled with the Green Products logo.

#2 Canada Trading Company

Where: 4950 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls 

Hours: Daily including all Holidays, hours vary dependent on the season (as early as 7:00 am – as late as 2:00 am)

On the street that is alive with attractions and dining, the Canada Trading Company is a leader in selling any kind of Canadian-made products.

There is a large selection of top quality souvenir clothing, figurines, water globes, wind spinners, handcrafted jewellery, as well as an impressive display of Native area artwork, totems, Inukshuks & Moccasins, dream catchers, masks and statues. Maple cookies, Canadian teas and chocolates, toys, and various Canada and Niagara Falls printed purses, coffee mugs, key chains, etc. are sold here. The list is endless!

Canadian made jewellery and clothing are huge sellers here. During the Winter months, the ladies love the warm, wool shawls and infinity scarves, and during the Summer, expect to see a full range of ladies and men’s latest fashions, including footwear. Postcards, pens, key chains, mugs, and other “Niagara Falls” featured souvenirs are always top of the list as well.

#3 Souvenir City

Where: 4199 River Road, Niagara Falls

Hours: Daily (except Christmas Day) varied dependent on the season (9:00 am – 5:00 to 9:00 pm)

Souvenir City is located on the scenic Niagara Parkway, just North of the Whirlpool Bridge and features 15,000 square feet of Canadian items and gifts. They have many motor coach companies who visit the store for shopping, snacks, and a rest break on the way to attractions such as the Butterfly Conservatory and the Whirlpool Aero Car, and for winery and scenic visits to beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake.

They have the largest assortment of maple products in Niagara Falls, which includes everything from candies, syrup, tea, coffee, and chocolates. Other popular items include native crafts, mugs, key chains, magnets, t-shirts, and plush animals.
Bring your camera for photo opportunities with their 15-foot-tall Inukshuk, Mounties, Carved Native, Teepee, Spoons, Thimbles, and a Moose.

How To Spend Your Mid Winter Recess Niagara Falls Style!

Reading Time:  4 minutes -

For both Canadian and American students, their Mid-Winter Break will occur within the last couple of weeks in February (at various times). American students also celebrate Presidents’ Day on February 20th. Here are some ways for the students to spend it in Niagara Falls.
*Canada’s Family Day Holiday is also on Monday, February 20th, so for those celebrating Presidents’ Day with elementary-aged children, click here for events happening for you!

Catch A Show With Chris Rock


He was voted the fifth-greatest stand-up comedian in a poll conducted by Comedy Central, and from February 21st to 23rd, students 19+ can catch him at the Fallsview Casino performing in his “Total Blackout Tour“. Tickets start at $90.

Experience the Niagara Falls Nightlife!


Get out and have a good time with all your friends! Boston Pizza Clifton Hill (pictured above) has dinner, drinks, billiards, bowling, and arcade games to keep you busy until 2:00 am, as well as other go-to student favourites such as Dragonfly Nightclub (located in the Fallsview Casino), Club Seven, and Casino Niagara.


Redeem this coupon at Boston Pizza Clifton Hill for $3 off a large pizza for your group to enjoy.
Find other discounts and package deals here to use on Clifton Hill during your Mid-Winter break getaway.

Get Help With Your Resume


Mid-Winter Break is also a perfect opportunity to refreshen your resume. From 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm on February 21st, you can meet with an Employment Consultant from Niagara College at the Community Centre Library (7150 Montrose Road, Niagara Falls) for “Youth Job Link”, who will review your resume and cover letter, provide feedback, answer job search questions, and get you ready for those interviews. Call 905-358-5082 for more information.

Laugh Your Butt Off!


via thatcanadianguy.com
On Saturday, February 25th, “That Canadian Guy: Glen Foster” & Special Guests will guarantee some laughs for the college crowd! Head to the Seneca Queen Theatre for a three-hour show of hilarious comedy that won’t break the student budget. Tickets are only $19.95+Tax.

Catch the Canadian Women’s Curling Championship at the Meridian Centre


The Scotties Tournament of Hearts is an annual Canadian women’s curling championship, sanctioned by the Canadian Curling Association. This is the biggest women’s curling event in the world and it’s hitting the Meridian Centre in St.Catharines from February 18th to the 26th during Mid-Winter Break. The winning team will go on to represent Canada at the World Women’s Championship in Beijing, China. Tickets can be purchased online at the Curling Canada Website or at the Meridian Centre.

Find a Niagara Falls Hotel To Meet Your Budget


Marriott Courtyard
Winter is an optimal time to come to Niagara Falls, as hotel rates are far more inexpensive than during the Summer. The last couple of weeks in February (after Valentine’s Day and the Family Day weekend), tends to see those rates drop to meet your budget. Check out this list of Niagara Falls Hotels to help you with your Mid-Winter Break planning!

 

Mid Winter Recess Niagara Falls Style: Get Down to Clifton Hill’s World Famous Street!

Clifton Hill: The World Famous Street of Fun by the Falls is the ideal setting for a Fun-tastic Mid Winter Recess Niagara Falls adventure!
Whether you’re planning a special family outing, or want to enjoy the great Mid-Winter break weather, the fun and excitement is always sky-high on Clifton Hill.

Fun Pass Deal

Be sure to pick up the Fun Pass for 5 great attractions at one low price. At $25 Off, it’s the best deal in town for family fun! Not only can your use it in one night, but also later in the weekend, or within a year of purchase.

Above all there’s plenty to do in Niagara Falls, vacationers are provided an environment of “casual fun” to enjoy with one another! Niagara vacations are also a great way for friends and family to unite and create memories that last a life time. The fact is, it’s even more important to spend time and build a sense of closeness with those closest to you.

10 Ways Our Arcade Is Better

Reading Time:  4 minutes -

From hundreds of arcade games, Midway rides, a huge selection of prizes, bowling, and good food, here are a gallery of photos proving why the Great Canadian Midway is a family favourite destination in Niagara Falls.
 

1

Old Midway Favourites


We have over 300+ arcade games — including old favourites Mom and Dad will remember, such as Skee-ball, Hi-Striker, Pac-Man, Whack-A-Mole, and the Shooting Gallery.
 
 
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New Favourites


…There’s also new games continuously arriving! Games such as Cruisin’n Blast, Flying Tickets, Baseball Pro, Pop the Lock, and Grand Piano Keys will keep the whole family entertained.
 

3

Break A Sweat!


Get moving with games such as Pump Infinity and Dance Dance Revolution!
 
4

The Biggest Selection Of Prizes!


This Midway features two floors of excitement and games, which means double the prize selection! We offer prizes galore — it’s a kids’ paradise! The biggest redemption counter is downstairs, with a smaller one upstairs for more variation.
 

5

Take A Ride On The Wild West Coaster

 
The Great Canadian Midway is home to a 6D Motion Experience that that whole family will love called the “Wild West Coaster“. Expect up to 2 G’s of accelleration, special seats that bear 400 movements per second, plus intense wind effects and dazzling light effects.
 
 
6

Shoot Some Ghosts!


As soon as you enter the arcade, you will be met with the most competitive game full of fun, laughter, and some screams! Ghost Blasters Dark Ride sends you and an opponent on a track through a “haunted hotel” geared up with laser guns. Shoots as many ghosts and goblins as you can, and see who gets the highest score. Will you be labelled the “Master Blaster”?
 
7


 
8

Upper Level Has A Full-Lane Bowling Alley!


Did you know that the average bowler burns 240 calories per hour? It’s true! On the upper level of the Great Canadian Midway, you will find Strike! Rock N’ Bowl, a unique bowling experience that is family-friendly before 10:00 pm, with electronic bumpers that will go up and down for the kids, to an adult only crowd in the evenings, where it turns into glow-in-the-dark, music pumping, bar crowd scene! Eight billiard tables are also located beside the alley.
 
9

Incredible Party Packages


One of the best reasons to visit the Great Canadian Midway is the Party Package options. Boston Pizza Clifton Hill is also located within the building, so whether it’s a children’s birthday party, a corporate event, or celebrating an engagement, you will NOT be short on fun! Check out the options such as the “Ultimate Fun Kids Party Package“: $25+Tax & Gratuities gets kids unlimited cheese/pepperoni pizza, unlimited soft drinks, cookies and ice cream, 25 game tokens, plus one hour of bowling!
See all the packages options here. To book your party or inquire by phone call 1-800-801-8557.
 
10

An Incredible Online Offer!


The Great Canadian Midway offers an incredible value (online only) of 180 tokens for only $44.25+tax. Simply make your online purchase, print off your confirmation slip and bring it with you! From there, you will have hours of family-fun enjoyment.
The Family Token Offer

Things to do in Niagara Falls in February!

Reading Time:  4 minutes -

What’s better than wine and chocolate?

via wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com

This event runs every weekend in February (Friday to Sunday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm). Pair up to 20 VQA Niagara wines with delicious chocolate dishes at various Niagara-on-the-Lake wineries. Tickets are available online through Wineries of Niagara on the Lake.

Bobby Bazini

Bazini was nominated for two Juno Awards: “New Artist of the Year” and “Pop Album of the Year”. In 2014, his second album “Where I Belong” sold over 125 000 copies in less than 12 months, which made it the best selling Canadian album of 2014. Catch him at the Scotiabank Convention Centre on February 10th, 2017. Details here.

Catch a tribute to Michael Jackson!

The “King Of Pop”, Michael Jackson will be reborn again in this theatrical musical production that celebrates his music over the years. Don’t miss the “Man In The Mirror” coming to the Fallsview Casino February 14th to 19th!

Blue Suede Shoes

This is a spectacular tribute to the “King of Rock n’ Roll” that transformed the music industry as we know it. Told through the eyes of Elvis’ business manager, Colonel Tom Parker, the show tells the story through his beginnings at Sun Records to the Hollywood years and on to the near-mythical comeback and flamboyant Las Vegas residency. Watch Blue Suede Shoes from February 14th to 19th at the Scotiabank Convention Centre.

“Magical Love” at the Greg Frewin Theatre

via gregfrewintheatre.com

This is a unique package for two to experience on Valentine’s Day! Engage in an evening of dinner, magic and illusion, bound together by romance! This show will be non-stop “edge of your seat” thrills and sophisticated magic as part of Greg Frewin’s “Wild Magic” Show.

Winterfest

via heartlandforest.org

Head to Heartland Forest on February 20th (11:00 am to 3:00 pm) for their Annual Winterfest event! There will be free indoor & outdoor activities, great food, a campfire, and PRIZE DRAWS!

Niagara’s Travelling Flea Market

On Saturday, February 25th from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm the Scotiabank Convention Centre will be holding the First Annual “Niagara’s Travelling Flea Market“! This will take place in over 17,000 square feet of space and will include activities for kids such as a fun zone, face painting, mascot character meet n greets and a reptile presentation. Admission to the event is FREE.

Scotties Tournament of Hearts

via curling.ca

From February 18th to the 26th, the Meridian Centre in St.Catharines will have Provincial teams from across Canada (along with Team Canada) to compete to be crowned the Canadian Women’s Curling Champions! Tickets range between $20 (weekday morning & afternoon) – $35 (Championship Final). For tickets click here.

Clifton Hill!

via niagarafallscliftonhill.com

And last but certainly not least, Clifton Hill is the heart of everything fun to do in February! Rides, entertainment, dining, and shopping abound…but most of all February is the month of the Family Day long weekend — and Clifton Hill is the destination that families will flock to. From winning big at the Great Canadian Midway, to soaring high in the sky on the Niagara SkyWheel, there is something for everyone here!

The Clifton Hill Fun Pass is the most economical way for families to experience all the action on Clifton Hill at an incredible discount. Fun begins on Clifton Hill — the “Street of Fun by the Falls”!

**Online only: Get TWO admissions to the Niagara SkyWheel as a bonus!

7 Fun Winter Weather Activities For Families Visiting Niagara Falls

Reading Time:  3 minutes -

As the mercury drops and winter arrives, Niagara Falls morphs into an otherworldly experience with the glorious Falls surrounded by shimmering ice formations mirroring the enchanted illuminated lights. Without a doubt, if you are planning a visit to Niagara this winter the children and yourself need to be bundled up. Expecially when you take in the magical Falls up close, in the middle of the winter season. The cold only adds to the thrill of watching the gushing water flowing relentlessly over the rock face. Once you’ve seen the Falls, Niagara offers plenty of climate controlled attractions and family entertainment to explore and make Niagara Falls a fun winter getaway.

1

Journey Behind the Falls


via instagram.com
This is one of Niagara’s oldest tourist hot spots. At Journey Behind the Falls you will get the opportunity to descend 150 feet through bedrock to tunnels that will overlook the magic of experiencing the Horseshoe Falls from directly underneath the cascading power above. Photo by: https://www.instagram.com/argenel/
https://www.cliftonhill.com/niagara-parks/attractions/journey-behind-the-falls
2

Niagara SkyWheel


via cliftonhill.com
Are you ready for a unique sightseeing opportunity with breathtaking views of the Falls and beyond? Then head on down to Clifton Hill and take a ride on Canada’s largest observation wheel, the Niagara SkyWheel. Towering 175 feet (53 metres) over the Niagara Falls horizon, the Niagara SkyWheel is the newest, most exciting way to see Niagara Falls.
https://www.cliftonhill.com/attractions/niagara-skywheel

3

The Bird Kingdom


via cliftonhill.com
A world class tropical adventure, located in Niagara Falls, Ontario, is the largest free-flying indoor aviary in the world, located a 5 minute walk from the Niagara Falls. Encounter exotic birds, animals, and reptiles as you search for the legendary Lost Kingdom.
https://www.cliftonhill.com/attractions/other-attractions/bird-kingdom
4

Niagara Butterfly Conservatory


via niagarafallscliftonhill.com
The Butterfly Conservatory opened in December 1996, and is located on the grounds of the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens. It contains a climate controlled greenhouse with over 2000 exotic butterflies and 60 different species, a gift shop, and a 200-seat auditorium room. Everywhere, you will be met with exquisite breeds up butterflies floating in the warm, moist air or spreading their iridescent wings on leaves and flowers.
https://www.cliftonhill.com/niagara-parks/attractions/butterfly-conservatory

5

Niagara’s Fury


via niagarafallscliftonhill.com
Experience Mother Nature’s wrath as this ride will put you on an adventure into the creation of the Niagara Falls. Standing on a platform, you will feel the motion and sensations of being a part of history. The floor will tremble beneath you, water will spit at you while it emulates the elements of mist and snow. You will see and feel the thunder, rain, lighting, wind…and everything that nature throws at you!
https://www.cliftonhill.com/niagara-parks/attractions/niagaras-fury
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Fallsview Water Park


via cliftonhill.com
Niagara’s Wettest Wonder – Fallsview Indoor Water Park, Niagara Falls! The Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is Niagara’s largest indoor waterpark, located on Clifton Hill: The World Famous Street of Fun by the Falls.
https://www.cliftonhill.com/attractions/nearby-attractions/fallsview-indoor-waterpark
7

Ripley’s Museum


via cliftonhill.com
The New Ripley’s Odditorium is a must see for any visitor to Niagara Falls, all new with over 900 exhibits, never seen before. Highly interactive fun for kids and enjoyment for the whole family.
https://www.cliftonhill.com/packages/ripleys

10 Parent and Children Halloween Costume Ideas

Reading Time:  2 minutes -


1

Rapunzel and the Tower


via costume-works.com
2

E.T. and Elliot


via costume-works.com

3

Stick Figure Family


via pinterest.com%20
4

Lego Family


via coolest-homemade-costumes.com

5

Oscar the Grouch and Garbage Man


via costume-works.com
6

King Kong and the Empire State Building Costume


via pinterest.com
7

Shark, Victim, and Lifeguard


via costume-works.com
8

Labyrinth Family


via costume-works.com
9

Axl and Slash from Guns N’ Roses


via costume-works.com
10

Jason, Freddy, and Chucky (the “Terror” Family)


via costume-works.com