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Getting Kids Ready for Back to School: Tips for a Smooth Transition

As summer winds down, the excitement and anticipation of a new school year begin to build. Preparing your kids for back to school can be a fun and rewarding experience with a bit of planning and organization. Here are some tips to help ensure a smooth transition: 1. Establish a Routine Start adjusting your child’s sleep schedule a week or two before school begins. Gradually move bedtime earlier and wake them up closer to the time they’ll need to get up for school. This helps their bodies adjust and makes the first week back less of a shock. 2. Organize School Supplies Make a list of necessary school supplies and involve your child in the shopping process. Letting them choose their notebooks, pens, and backpacks can make them more excited about the new school year. Don’t forget to label everything with their name! 3. Create a Study Space Set up a dedicated, clutter-free area for homework and studying. Ensure it’s well-lit and stocked with all the supplies they might need. Having a speci
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Businesses urge Ottawa to extend CEBA loan deadline amid economic slowdown


The Canada Emergency Bank Account (CEBA) loan program, which provided nearly a million businesses with up to $60,000 in interest-free loans to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic, is set to expire on Thursday. Businesses that repay the loan by the deadline can receive partial forgiveness of up to $20,000, or one-third of the loan. After the deadline, the debt is rolled into a three-year loan with a five per cent annual interest rate.

However, many business groups are calling on the federal government to give CEBA loan holders more time to repay the loans and receive the forgiveness, citing the ongoing economic challenges and lockdowns caused by the virus. They argue that forcing businesses to repay the loans now could lead to more insolvencies and closures, especially in hard-hit sectors such as accommodation and food services.

The federal government, on the other hand, has warned that delaying or forgiving CEBA loans would have significant financial consequences for the public finances, as it would add to the already large deficits and debt. Economists at Desjardins estimate that more than half of businesses in Canada received the CEBA loan, and that the total amount distributed was $49.2 billion. They also caution that postponing or cancelling the repayment of the loans could risk additional upward pressure on interest rates, which could affect the cost of borrowing for the government and the private sector.

The CEBA loan program was one of the key measures introduced by the federal government to support businesses during the pandemic. It was launched in April 2020 and was later expanded to include more eligible businesses and increase the loan amount. Businesses that received the loan can use it for expenses such as rent, payroll, utilities, and insurance. The program is administered by financial institutions in cooperation with Export Development Canada.

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