School’s Out + Join the Team

Inside the New West Spotlight

 ☀️ Weather - A mix of sun and clouds

 😜 Rain Joke - What’s a raindrop’s favorite season? 💧🍃 

 🔦 Business Spotlight - Rainbow Play Cafe

 💝 You’re So Sweet - Thank you, Len C.!

 🗓️ New West Events - Variety

 🗞️ New West Local News - School’s Out + Join the Team

 😆 Meme of the Day

 📰 Advertise with New West Spotlight - Buy One, Get One Free

Discover Community and Deliciousness at Rainbow Play Cafe in New West

New West is home to a vibrant community, and local businesses like Rainbow Play Cafe are at the heart of what makes it special. We recently chatted with Xanat, the owner, to learn more about her unique space and what she offers.

Rainbow Play Cafe is a wonderful local spot described by Xanat as primarily a Mexican coffee shop that includes an indoor play area. When it first opened, it focused on coffee and the play space, but it has since expanded to include food items like tacos, pozole, tortilla soup, and Mexican gourmet sandwiches called tortas. This expansion came largely from customer requests, particularly from parents who wanted a place where they could sit and converse while their children played. Xanat emphasizes that they want to highlight their offerings of coffee, frappes, and organic Mexican coffee, known for their great quality.

Xanat’s journey to opening Rainbow Play Cafe was inspired by her own experience. After moving to Canada 10 years ago and becoming a first-time mom without family or friends nearby, she felt the isolation that can accompany having a new baby. Visiting play cafes in Vancouver showed her the value of a place where moms could connect, enjoy a coffee, and not feel judged if their baby cried. She realized such spaces could help avoid the feeling of isolation. After five years of planning, her vision became a reality, creating a hub where parents can find resources and community.

For Xanat, the most rewarding part of her business is seeing moms connect and make friends. She shared a touching story about two customers who met at the cafe, discovered their first children were the same age, and were both pregnant with their second, and are now friends who go for walks together. This, she says, felt like succeeding in the ultimate goal and purpose of the business.

While the play area for kids aged zero to five is a key feature, Xanat has been working to shift the perception that Rainbow Play Cafe is just a play area or daycare. The indoor play area is thoughtfully equipped with toys chosen in consultation with a child psychologist, focusing on items that encourage motor skills and have a purpose, like Montessori-style toys. They also host special events like yoga for kids and arts and crafts, though these are secondary to the main offerings.

Xanat takes particular pride in the tacos, noting that her partner, a chef from Mexico, ensures their authenticity and flavor. They take care in preparation, with some items taking 24 hours to marinate, and they use ingredients like chilies imported from Mexico, sourced from a local Latin product store. This commitment to quality shines through, and they even offer a Taco Tuesday promo.

Running a local business comes with challenges, such as the costs involved and the need to continuously reach new customers as children grow out of the target age range. This highlights why supporting local businesses like Rainbow Play Cafe is so important – they rely on community patronage to thrive.

You can find out more about Rainbow Play Cafe or connect with Xanat online. She maintains a strong online presence on Instagram and Facebook and updates her website weekly. You can also call the cafe. If you plan to visit the play area on a weekend, she recommends calling ahead as they are popular for private events like birthday parties and may be closed.

Rainbow Play Cafe is more than just a place to grab a coffee or for kids to play; it's a place built on the desire to foster community and support. Consider stopping by to enjoy their quality coffee, try their authentic Mexican food, and experience the welcoming atmosphere Shanette has created. Supporting local businesses means supporting the heart of our community!

Address: 921 12th St, New Westminster, BC V3M 4K7

Phone: (604) 553-1019

Website: https://rainbowplaycafe.ca/

Already know, like, and trust this business? Be sure to support Rainbow Play Cafe and leave them an honest Google Review

🍁 Shop Local 🍁 

Read New West Spotlight Online

May 13, 2025

📝 MOSAIC's 13th Annual Job Fair – Early Entrance at 9:30 AM

🗣️ English Conversation Circles All Levels – 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM

✏️ Sketch For Fun (50+ years) – 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

📖 Storytime (3-5 years) – 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM

📱 Bring Your Own Device Tech Cafe! – 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM

📚️ BYO Book Club – 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM

📝 Work BC Employment Services Drop-In (Queensborough) – 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM

🧘 Yang Tai Chi 24 form – 5:00 PM

🍺 🎲 Beer and Board Games – 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM

🤝 Connaught Heights Residents Association Annual General Meeting (AGM) – 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM

❓️ Trivia Tuesdays at Howe Sound New West – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM

🎭️ Trivia Tuesdays at Notorious Grey Fox – 7:00 PM

🎸 Georgie's Local Tuesday Night Jam Session – 7:00 PM

May 14, 2025

💰️ Financial Aid (Welfare) Worker at NWPL – 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

📱 Seniors Embracing Technology – 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

👶 Mom + Baby Meet Up at Cove Indoor Play – 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 CaRT Peer Navigators – 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

👶 Babytime (0-23 months) – 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM

🎙️ Mayor Johnstone's Annual State of the City Address – 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM

⛑️ Crises Response Team Outreach Worker Drop-ins at the Library – 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM

🎒 After-School Drop-In (5-12 years) – 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM

📽️ Climate Films: I am the Magpie River – 6:00 PM to 7:45 PM

📖 Pyjama Storytime (All ages) – 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM

❓️ Trivia Night at Georgie's Local  – 7:00 PM

🏃 Run Club  – 7:00 PM

👦👧 Connect Youth (13+) – 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM

🎤 Open Mic Jam at Bully’s Studio – 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM

❓️ Trivia Night at Frankie G’s – 7:30 PM

May 15, 2025

🗣️ English Conversation Circles for All Levels – 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM

👶 Babytime (0-12 months) – 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM

🍼 Baby Social (0-23 months) – 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM

💑 City LOVE Scavenger Hunt Date Night For Couples - New Westminster Area – 1:00 PM

📖 Tigrinya Storytime – 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM

🏓 Intro to Pickleball Drop-in (add every thurs until June 26) – 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM

🍅 Farmers Market – 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM

📚️ Drop-in Wildfires Bookshop – 5:45 PM

📚️ Bite-Sized Lit: A Celebration of Short Story Month – 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM

🎙️ Karaoke Night at Georgie's – 7:00 PM

🎙️ Colossal Thursdays Karaoke at The Terminal Pub – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM

🎭️ Bee's Knees Burlesque at The Flapper Lounge – 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM

🎤 Open Mic Jam at Notorious Grey Fox – 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM

 🌞 School’s Out! Let’s Unplug and Embrace the Outdoors

When school takes a break, it’s tempting for kids and teens to reach for their screens—but with a little planning, families in New Westminster can turn school closures into a chance to recharge, get moving, and reconnect with the outdoors.

Whether it’s a Pro-D Day, spring break, or summer vacation, there’s no shortage of fun, screen-free activities to help children and teens stay active and social.

📱 The Impact of Excessive Screen Time

Recent studies highlight the concerns associated with prolonged screen exposure among youth. Excessive screen time has been linked to:

• Sleep disturbances: Overuse of digital devices can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and decreased academic performance.

• Mental health issues: High screen time correlates with increased risks of depression, anxiety, and attention problems.

• Physical inactivity: Sedentary behavior contributes to obesity and related health problems.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends:

• Children aged 2–5: Limit non-educational screen time to about 1 hour per weekday and 3 hours on weekend days.

• Children aged 6 and older: Encourage healthy habits and limit activities that include screens.

🌳 Benefits of Outdoor Activities

Engaging in outdoor play is crucial for children's development. Benefits include:

• Enhanced physical health: Activities like running, biking, and climbing improve cardiovascular health and muscle strength.

• Improved mental well-being: Nature exposure reduces stress, enhances mood, and boosts concentration.

• Social skill development: Outdoor group activities foster teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

🧒 Activities for Children

Here are some fun and engaging outdoor activities for younger kids:

• Nature scavenger hunts: Explore local parks and search for specific plants, animals, or natural objects.

• Obstacle courses: Set up simple courses in the backyard to promote physical activity and coordination.

• Gardening projects: Teach responsibility and patience by planting and caring for a small garden.

• Art in the park: Encourage creativity by drawing or painting scenes from nature.

🧑‍🎓 Activities for Teens

For teenagers, consider activities that promote independence and social interaction:

• Volunteer work: Participate in community clean-up events or assist at local shelters.

• Outdoor sports: Engage in team sports like soccer or individual activities like skateboarding.

• Photography walks: Combine creativity and exploration by capturing nature through photography.

• Adventure programs: Join organized outdoor education programs that build resilience and leadership skills.

🗓️ Local Programs and Resources

New Westminster offers various programs to keep youth engaged during school breaks:

• Day Camps: Available during winter, spring, and summer breaks for ages 3–18, featuring a mix of indoor and outdoor activities.

• Youth Centers: Provide safe spaces for teens to socialize, participate in workshops, and enjoy recreational activities.

• Community Events: Regularly scheduled events in local parks encourage family participation and community bonding.

For more information on upcoming programs and registration details, visit NewWestCity.ca.

By prioritizing outdoor activities and setting healthy screen time boundaries, families can ensure that school breaks are a time of growth, exploration, and meaningful connections. Let's make the most of the beautiful surroundings New Westminster has to offer!

 👮‍♀️👮‍♂️ Help Your Community Heal: Join the Crisis Intervention Team

Are you someone who stays calm under pressure and feels called to support others during their most difficult moments? A unique opportunity is open in New Westminster for compassionate and community-minded individuals to become Crisis Intervention Workers (Auxiliary) with the Victim Assistance Unit.

This essential role offers a meaningful way to give back by providing emotional support and guidance to victims and witnesses of crime or trauma. Whether you're responding to a police scene or offering support over the phone, you’ll play a vital role in helping people feel heard, supported, and safe.

What the Role Involves:

• Offering crisis intervention and follow-up support during traumatic events

• Providing referrals to community services and resources

• Working closely with law enforcement and support networks

• Managing sensitive situations with care, empathy, and professionalism

Ideal Candidates Have:

• Grade 12 education and post-secondary courses in social sciences

• Strong communication, decision-making, and interpersonal skills

• A compassionate, inclusive approach to helping others

• Availability for on-call shifts (including evenings, weekends, holidays)

• A valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License

• Residency within 30 minutes of New Westminster

All successful applicants must be able to pass a background check and commit to approximately 60 hours of training scheduled in early fall 2025.

Why It’s Worthwhile:

• Competitive wage of $31.95–$37.54 per hour + 12% in lieu of benefits

• Supportive environment focused on wellness and inclusion

• Free staff parking and access to an onsite fitness facility

• Central location steps from Columbia SkyTrain Station

This role is more than a job—it’s a chance to stand beside your neighbors and be a source of strength during life’s most vulnerable moments.

💙 Apply for this job by May 28, 2025, at 8:00 a.m.

Submit Your Application Today

⛈️ Rain Joke of the Day 🌧️ 

💧What’s a raindrop’s favorite season?🍃 

The one that makes everything come alive! 🌲🌞 

Meme of the Day

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