NW Kids magazine February 2009

All About Teeth

Pediatric Dentist Guide Facts and Figures History of the Tooth Fairy Open House Listings Great Wolf Lodge

www.nwkids.com

Listings Birthdays

Events and Seasonal

Horseback Riding

Professional Services

The Little Gym..........................3 Penny’s Puppet Productions...25 Pigtails & Crewcuts.................23 Sit Still.......................................27 Nomadic Theatre.....................25

Kidfest........................................19 Alice in Wonderland................21 Pass It On Sales........................21 Just Between Friends...............25

Rain Creek Riding School......27

Candice Aiston...........................3

Health & Fitness

Schools

The Little Gym..........................3 Barre 3..........................................7 Baby Boot Camp........................9 World of Smiles.........................7

Portland Wiz Kids............ 14, 15 Little Fruit Farm Montessori................................14 German American School......15 Escuela Viva..............................15 Goddard School.......................11 Sunshine Montessori School........................................14 Happy Hollow Children’s Center........................................14 Oregon Virtual Academy........11

Books & Toys SpielWerk Toys........................23 Powell’s Books...........................27 Steiner Storehouse...................25

Charity & Community Wendy’s Wonderful Kids........10

Childcare A Mother’s Love.......................14 Happy Hollow Children’s Center........................................14 Portland Wiz Kids............ 14, 15

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Food & Restaurants New Seasons Market.................2 Munchkin Playland.................23 Hopworks Urban Brewery......29

Goods and Clothing

Music, Theatre and Dance

Backyard Adventures...............21 Beaverton Bakery.....................23 Arbonne.....................................17 Super Kids Resale....................17 Mama Baby Boutique..............17

Childbloom...............................25 Magic Music Studio................25 Sound Roots School of Modern Music.....................25 Bennett Suzuki Violin Studio............................25

Haircuts

Photography

Pigtails & Crewcuts.................23 Sit Still.......................................27

Kiddie Kandids........................31

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fun topics

more serious topics

Editor’s Corner In our last email newsletter we discussed the pending Consumer Products Safety legislation that will require extensive testing on every article of clothing, every book, toy, or product that is sold to children. The law was designed to strengthen the regulations on lead and other dangerous materials, and was largely written in response to a collective outpouring of concern from consumers demanding that products for our children are safe and lead-free.

It’s great to see democracy in action!

However the legislation, as written, goes too far. The testing requirements for certification are expensive and time-consuming, so much so that many businesses are closing their doors or severely limiting their inventory. Many of the lovely, unique products we’ve featured the Jess Says editor’s picks fall into this category, as do many of your favorite European toys (don’t even get me started on the books!).

An active group of local merchants has formed the NW Children’s Business Alliance, drafting letters, testifying before City Hall, and spreading the word. Thanks partly to their efforts, the CPSC and the congressional reps behind the legislation appear open to amending the act – or at least of postponing its effective date. This law, if it goes into effect as drawn on February 10, is devastating to our local businesses. But it’s also devastating to us as consumers because we will no longer have access to the many (inherently safe) children’s products we love so dearly.

Consumers were behind the calls for tougher standards, and consumers need to now also stand up and ask that the laws that go into effect are fair and logical.

What you can do: Meetings between congress and the Consumer Products Safety Commission are taking place now and your input and action are necessary. It’s urgent that you contact the CPSC and Representatives Henry Waxman and Bobby Rush. Contact information is on our website at www.nwkids.com/cpsia Thank you.

—Jessica davis, Jessica@nwkids.com 4

Editor / Publisher Jessica Davis jessica@nwkids.com Editorial Assistant Julie Shamblin julie@nwkids.com Business Director, Web Pete Davis pete@nwkids.com Advertising Manager Michelle Snell michelle@nwkids.com Account Manager, Eastside Jenifer Jepson Wiggin jenifer@nwkids.com Account Manager, Westside Thea Wood thea@nwkids.com Artists Erin Sorenson, Corrina Reff, Teddy Raines corrina5455@yahoo.com, karistm@gmail.com Contributors Alisa Gaylord, Janet Allison, Dawn Sorem, Jacki Sturkie For Photography submissions photos@nwkids.com

contact us...

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Sales, ext. 1 Editorial, ext. 2 Billing and Business, ext. 3 www.nwkids.com

NW Kids is published monthly by littlemedia, llc.

Every effort is made to ensure accuracy; sometimes we make errors. Please let us know when we do and accept our apologies.

Printed locally; Please recycle

Say you saw it in the pages of NW Kids

contents Health 6 Profile 10 Books 16 Food 18 Parenting 20 Birthdays 22 Crafts 24 Outings 28 Mama Says 24

what’s inside...

Taking Care of Your Children’s Teeth The NW Kids Resource Guide: Find a Pediatric Dentist Food: Cauliflower – with recipes!

Have an Out of This World Birthday Party Outings: The Great Wolf Lodge is a Wet Wonderland Crafts, Calendar, Good Reads, Mama Says and more!

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on the cover & above...

Photos courtesy of studiochristy.com

on the web...

Our New Searchable School Guide: www.nwkids.com/guide/schools Ticket giveaways! Enter to win four tickets to Thomas, Alice in Wonderland Live! and the Harlem Globetrotters: www.nwkids. com/tickets

show us where the fun is..

Your little one could be on the next cover of NW Kids. Email your pics to photos@ nwkids.com 5

Photo courtesy of www.studiochristy.com

Health Oral Health Should Start Early

A

recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report shows that most young children do not receive the proper oral care they need to promote optimal oral health. Tooth decay declined in every age group, except for children aged two to five years, which increased from 24 percent to 28 percent between 1988-1994 and 1999-2004. Tooth decay is the single most common chronic childhood disease, yet 90 percent of all tooth decay is

Michelle Stafford, pediatric dentist at World of Smiles Dentistry. “The earlier I can speak to the parents, the easier it is to help them prevent their kids from getting cavities. A quick exam lets us see if there are any early signs of cavities.”

Another reason to connect with a dentist early, according to Stafford, is to know your dentist so you know who to call if your child falls down and chips a tooth or has a dental emergency. “Just as most parents have a pediatrician, they should also have a “dental home” for their kids.”

The no. 1 action parents should take to ensure healthy teeth and gums is to help their children brush and floss their teeth

Fluoride use – Young children require fluoride to help developing teeth grow strong, and it helps prevent tooth decay in older children when used on a regular basis. Talk to your pediatric dentist about your child’s fluoride needs.

preventable.The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that parents adopt the following practices to help prevent tooth decay in young children: Year-one dental visit – Dental visits should begin around six months but no later than one year, or with the appearance of a child’s first tooth. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental problems.

“Prevention is extremely important,” says Dr. 6

Healthy eating habits – Parents should ensure their children are eating a balanced diet and limit snacks, which can increase a child’s risk of developing cavities.

The no. 1 action parents should take to ensure healthy teeth and gums is to help their children brush and floss their teeth, says Stafford.

For more information about how to keep children’s teeth healthy, visit www.aapd.org.

For instructions on proper brushing and flossing visit www.greatgrins.net/prevention.

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Be Careful of Sippy Cups Sippy cups are designed to help make the transition from baby bottle to drinking cup easier, but sippy cups filled with anything other than water can also promote cavities and tooth decay. To reduce the risk of cavities, the AAPD offers these tips for using sippy cups: • Never put your child to sleep at night or during naptime with a sippy cup containing anything other than water.

• Mealtimes are the only time that your child’s sippy cup should contain any liquid other than water.

• Because sippy cups were designed to help make the transition to drinking cup from a baby bottle, they shouldn’t be used for an extended period of time.

The Significance of Baby Teeth Despite the fact that baby teeth are eventually replaced by permanent adult teeth, it’s important that they remain healthy and in place until they’re lost naturally. Baby, or “milk” teeth serve several critical functions, including: • Fostering good nutrition by permitting proper chewing • Aiding speech development • Helping permanent teeth by saving space for them

February is National Childrens Dental Health Month

Only three out of five children visit a dentist at least once a year.

While parents may avoid taking a child to the dentist to save money, studies show that children who have their first dental visit before age one have 40 percent lower dental costs in their first five years than children who don’t, making preventive care a sound health and economic decision.

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Health

Origin of the Tooth Fairy Gathered from online research

M

ost kidlets know what happens when they lose a tooth – they place it under their pillow and the tooth fairy will come in the night and swap it with some money.

Like many childhood “visitors,” the tooth fairy seems to have evolved from different folklores and cultural rituals. A quick browse of the topic online sheds some interesting light on where the tooth fairy originated.

Many folk cultures have for centuries marked the loss of a child’s baby or milk teeth.

In Europe, it was a common practice to bury the baby tooth in the garden or in the fields surrounding the child’s home. One reason was to ensure that a new tooth (permanent tooth) would grow in its place. The other reason for this ritual was superstition. Supposedly, witches and/or evil spirits could place curses on a child if they had its tooth (as with fingernail clippings and/or hair), so burying the teeth prevented this unfortunate curse. As people moved into towns and cities where bare land wasn’t as plentiful, they began placing the teeth in small flowerpots, planter boxes or bedside chests.

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In some Asian countries, the usual custom was for the child to throw a lost tooth onto the roof if it came from the lower jaw or into the space beneath the floor if it came from the upper jaw.

While doing this, the child shouts a request for the tooth to be replaced with the tooth of a mouse.

Apparently, the teeth of mice go on growing for their entire lifespan, which is a good thing.

In parts of India, young children offer their discarded baby tooth to the sun, sometimes wrapped in a tiny rag of cotton turf.

The Vikings believed that the power of the children’s teeth would aid them in battles. They used to pay their children a “tooth fee” so they could string the teeth onto necklaces and other jewelry.

Many historians believe the tooth fairy evolved from the tooth mouse depicted in an 18th century French language fairy tale. In “La Bonne Petite Souris,” a mouse changes into a fairy to help a good queen defeat an evil king by hiding under his pillow to torture him and knocking out all his teeth.

No one seems to have a solid story about what the tooth fairy does with all those teeth.

(Anecdotal evidence indicates that parents generally make something up on the spot…)

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PORTLAND METRO Area Pediatric Dentists A Pediatric dentist is one who has undertaken specialized training to work with children, generally two or three years beyond dental school. Pediatric dental practices often offer child-sized furniture and fun dĂŠcor to help make the visits more appealing to the little ones.

Adventure Dental 360-604-9000 2501 NE 134th St, Suite 105, Vancouver www.adventuredental.com

Pediatric Dental Clinic 503-612-1897 19255 SW 65th Ave, Suite 250, Tualatin www.pediatricdentalclinic.net

Dentistry for Children (Dr. Pike) 503-297-1711 5440 SW Westgate Drive, Portland www.doctorpike.com

Pediatric Dentistry NE Location: 503-284-5678 2824 NE Wasco St, Suite 230, Portland SE Location: 503-761-2243 16338 SE Stark St, Portland www.pediatricdentistrypc.com

Dentistry for Children Hillsboro Location: 503-641-8800 2380 NW Amberbrook Dr, Hillsboro Beaverton Location: 503-579-0304 14795 SW Murray-Scholls Dr, Suite 116, Beaverton www.behindthesmile.com

Under the Sea Dentistry for Children 360-891-9283 3205 S.E. 192nd Avenue, Suite 100, Vancouver www.undertheseakidsdentist.com

Dentistry for Children 360-260-0505 1405 SE 164th Ave, Vancouver www.doctorshebani.com

World of Smiles 503-626-9700 11790 SW Barnes Rd, Suite 280, Portland www.visitworldofsmiles.com

Dentistry for Kids 503-282-8200 Southwest Town Center Loop W, Wilsonville www.dentistryforkidsonline.com

Young Kidz Dental 503-658-3384 14210 SE Sunnyside Rd #100, Clackamas www.youngkidzdental.com

Dr. Brandon Dentistry for Children and Teens 503-620-2777 11565 Southwest Durham Road, Suite 100, Tigard www.drbrandon.com Great Grins East Portland Location: 503-254-5535 13908 SE Stark St., Suite C, Portland Oregon City Location: 503-656-0631 911 Main St. Suite 140, Oregon City www.greatgrins.net Jacqueline Bourdette Pediatric Dentistry 503-244-9073 2350 S.W. Multnomah Blvd., Suite J, Portland www.drbourdette.com The Kids’ Dentist 503-697-4746 18676 Willamette Dr, Suite 301, West Linn www.oregonkidsdentist.com Lakeside Pediatric Dentistry 503-635-3483 8 North State Street, Suite 203, Lake Oswego www.lakesidepediatricdentistry.com Shoebox Pediatric Dentistry 503-614-1177 15160 NW Laidlaw Road, Suite 105, Portland www.shoeboxpediatricdentistry.com Sunnyside Dentistry for Children Clackamas Location: 503-786-5080 10121 SE Sunnyside Rd, Suite 320, Clackamas Sherwood Location: 503-625-7555 16015 SW Tualatin Sherwood Rd, Suite 160, Sherwood www.sunnysidedentistryforchildren.com

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9

Profile Portland Mother Linda Cohen Blogs About Her Journey to Reach 1,000 Mitzvahs Linda Cohen started her popular blog, 1,000 Mitzvahs (1000mitzvahs.wordpress.com) two years ago as a way to overcome the grief she felt upon the death of her father. She wanted to do mitzvahs to honor his memory. As she approaches good deed No. 1,000, Linda spoke with NW Kids about the project.

NW Kids: So what exactly is a Mitzvah?

Linda Cohen: Well, there are specific mitzvahs laid out in the Torah – 613 of them in fact. But it’s really any act of kindness, any giving of the self, be it one’s time or money. It’s basically a good deed - anything you do that requires that extra effort.

I include every time I send a card or pick up the phone to thank someone or extend a compliment – these actions are simple and quick but can have a huge impact. (See Linda’s blog entries on June 15, 2007 and June 7, 2007 for examples of some of Linda’s personal favorite deeds).

NW Kids: Some of the mitzvahs you list, such as “replaced an empty toilet paper roll” or “picked up litter” aren’t so obvious. How do you determine what to count?

Linda Cohen: I’d like to think that I have always tried to do good works; the difference now is that I am looking for ways to give back. I like to think that we can be successful just by trying, by encouraging people to be good. My children and my husband and I have these great discussions about the mitzvahs and whether something “counts.” These conversations, about “what is kindness,” “what is giving,” have really inspired them to think about the impact of kindness.

NW Kids: What does your family they think about the project?

Linda Cohen: My husband was initially excited about it – he set up the blog. I think he is proud I stuck with it as it continued to grow. My kids are very sweet and very involved. My daughter asked me if she could post on my blog. Up to then I hadn’t really known what she thought, but she is really proud of me.

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NW Kids: Many of your mitzvahs involve fundraising and / or charity. Is the monetary aspect of it very important?

Linda Cohen: I’d say roughly 20 out of 100 mitzvahs actually cost me any money. We’ve raised money for charities, but most of the mitzvahs involve time.

One of the most positive experiences that came out of this project was forging a stronger relationship with my rabbi and his wife, by spending a lot of time with them at weekly breakfasts. Having this time at their house allowed me to know them in a much more intimate way. When my rabbi passed away, his family read my blog entry at the memorial about how grateful I was to have known this incredible man. It was completely from the heart and had nothing to do with money.

NW Kids: How has blogging about mitzvahs helped you deal with your grief?

Linda Cohen: It is very humbling. I plugged my grief into something positive, moving from sadness to an abundance of giving. It’s interesting – a number of scientific studies show that acts of kindness result in significant health benefits, both physical and mental, for those who perform them. So I guess this mitzvah idea has many more benefits than what I intended when I started!

DO SOMETHING WONDERFUL! Dorrie is wild about Barbies, Hannah Montana and artistic expression. Plucky and vivacious, this bright little girl has reclaimed her winsome smile in light of challenging odds. Dorrie’s enthusiasm for adoption is authentic, and contagious!

Weary of moving between foster homes, Dorrie’s dream is to connect permanently with a special, committed family. She knows what she wants, too: “A mom and a “I love dad that will take to sing and dance, me to do fun things. I like having an older foster sister and would love my new family and everyone tells to have older kids.” Supportive adoptive me I have a good parent(s) will delight in her pert sense of voice. I want to be a humor and unabashed optimism. Dorrie’s professional singer talents and bubbly verve are a promising when I grow up.” combination for a daughter-to-be.

Adopt a Wendy’s Wonderful Kid Brook Puckett Call Boys 503.542.2330 & Girls Aid bpuckett@boysandgirlsaid.org today! www.boysandgirlsaid.org

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INFANT • TODDLER • PRESCHOOL • PRE-K • KINDERGARTEN • AFTER-SCHOOL

At The Goddard School ... ®

Summer is full of fun and learning.

NOW ENROLLING!

S

The exceptional summer program at The Goddard School® includes: • • • • •

Science and Nature Arts and Crafts Drama Computers and Technology Literature and Language

• • • • •

Cooking Music and Movement Sports and Games Manners Special Visitors

CLACKAMAS • 14210 SE Sunnyside Road • 503-658-8715 HILLSBORO • 5530 NE Elam Young Parkway • 503-693-1888 PORTLAND • 4086 NW Saltzman Road • 503-617-9040 VANCOUVER • 3111 SE 192nd Avenue • 360-253-2988 The Goddard Schools® are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. © Goddard Systems Inc. 2008

www.goddardschool.com

K12 gets kids thinking big. It’s what happens when they get to take soil samples. Plant seeds. Study earthworms. All in their own backyards. That’s thanks to K12 and our award-winning curriculum, individualized to bring learning alive, one child at a time. Every subject is delivered online, with hands-on experiments, plus books and support from expert teachers.

when kids get into learning, learning gets into them.

Options include: t Full-time, tuition-free public schooling in many states t An accredited online private school available nationwide t Over 150 individual courses including foreign languages, AP® and electives available for direct purchase We’re America’s largest online curriculum provider for grades K through 12. Because we give every student a chance to think big. Learn more at K12.com.

Interested in a full-time public school option? The K12 program is available through the Oregon Virtual Academy—an online public charter school authorized by the North Bend School District for grades K-8 that offers state-certified teachers, a free loaner computer, and a range of extracurricular activities.

Second semester just started, but it’s not too late for your K-8 student to join us for the 2008-2009 school year. Join us at an upcoming event to learn more.

Visit www.oregonva.org for a full schedule of events.

Join us at an event to learn more!

4Portland, 2/10 4Oregon City, 2/11 4Hillsboro, 2/12

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open houses Bodhi Tree Language Center Bodhi Tree is an Asian language center that specializes in language & culture instruction. Year-round, after-school, Saturday programs, summer camp sand adult language classes offered.

All faiths welcome

No/Yes

Varies

N/A; small

Sibling discounts

6:1 preschool; 10:1 preschoolers

Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Cantonese, Lao, Thai

No, but convenient by bus.

5403 SE Center Street St. • Portland, OR 97206 503.788.0336 • info@bodhitreelanguagecenter.org www.bodhitreelanguagecenter.org

Congregation Beth Israel Congregation Beth Israel Preschool establishes a framework through which Jewish experiences are integrated into a quality preschool curriculum. Devlopmentally appropriate programs, first-hand experiences in language arts, math, science, music, and movement.

Jewish, but all faiths welcome

1 hour optional lunch

$165 - $475 per month

50

Available to Temple members

7:1 or smaller

Art, music, Spanish

No

1972 NW Flanders St. • Portland, OR 97209 503.222.2037 • shelley@bethisrael-pdx.org www.bethisrael-pdx.org

The Early Learning Center A creative pre-K laboratory school at Warner Pacific College 2219 SE 68th Ave . Portland 503-517-1081 . www.warnerpacific.edu see “prospective students” tab on website

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Barnes-Miller Child Dev. Center At Barnes-Miller we strive to provide a loving, caring, and nurturing environment and provide opportunities to build close bonds with peers and caregivers. Ages infant - 12 years old; full-day kindergarten

Open House: Feb. 21, 11am - 1pm Rolling Admissions yes / yes

None varies depending on age & schedule, call for rates

106

No

3mo-2yr 1:4 / 2-3yr 1:5, 3-5yr 1:10 / 5-12yr 1:15

Tumble bus on site

No

7345 SW Barnes Road • Portland, OR 97225 503.292.7847 • barnes-miller@qwestoffice.net www.barnes-millercdc.com

Hillsboro Westside Preschool Hillsboro Westside Preschool is a small art-based program for children aged 3-5. Our focus is on informal activities that incorporate art, music, and dance. Classes are kept small to provide lots of individual attention and interaction.

Please contact us for a tour No affiliation

No / No

$175 - $225 / month

16 per class

No

8:1 or smaller

Children’s yoga, music, and arts

No

1400 NE 48th Ave., Ste. 202A * Hillsboro, OR 97124 503.740.3846 • westsidepreschool@rocketmail.com

Lakeshore Montessori A traditional Montessori program with an emphasis on cognitive development, individual and self-paced instruction and an environment and methodology that encourages self discipline.

Open House: March 4, 2009, 6pm - 7:30pm Non sectarian

Yes/Yes

$4,800 - $5,900/yr

20 per class

No

10:1 or better

Music, Spanish; full-day kindergarten

No

2100 NW 99th St. • Vancouver, WA 98665 360.573-4103 • grover_katrina@yahoo.com www.lakeshoremontessori.com

Say you saw it in the pages of NW Kids

symbol guide Religious Affiliation Tuition Costs Financial Aid available Specialty Programs Before/After School Care Maximum Enrollment Student/Teacher Ratio Transportation Available

open houses The International School The International School provides a multicultural environment where children are fully immersed in Spanish, Japanese or Chinese language and culture, from Pre-K through fifth grade.

Open Houses: Feb. 17, 6–8 pm April 17, 9am–1pm None

Yes/Yes; Full-day kindergarten

$4,300-10,600/yr.

400 7:1

Yes Full immersion Chinese, Japanese & Spanish; cultural dance, music & arts

No

025 SW Sherman Street• Portland, OR 97201 503.226.2496 • admissions@intlschool.org www.intlschool.org

Pacific Crest Academy

Early Learning Matters

Mission: Pacific Crest Academy is a Catholic School dedicated to educating the whole child through spiritual and character formation, academic excellence, and apostolic service. This is achieved through collaboration of educators, parents and students to develop leadership potential and virtue so every student may transform society through justice and charity.

Early Learning Matters (ELM) Preschool/Kindergarten program promotes creativity, problem-solving, selfdirectedness, affective development, and the mastery of foundational skills through playful experiences. ELM is committed to helping children become stronger and more efficient thinkers!

Catholic

Yes/Yes

Yes

15 for PreK; 20 per class for K-8 varies by grade

French, art, technology, music

No

varies by grade

Open House: March 14, April 4 10am-12noon

No/No

None

tuition varies

6:1

Music, movement, developmentally appropriate, brain-based

No

324 NE Oak • Camas, WA 98607 360.834.9913 • lwhite@pacificcrestacademy.org

1400 NE 48th Ave. Ste. 108 • Hillsboro, OR 97124 503.648.8917• info@strongthinkers.com

Cornerstone Montessori

Child’s View Montessori

Cornerstone offers an individualized program using traditional Montessori materials that provide multi-sensory and interactive exploration. The school fosters a love for learning that will last a lifetime.

Education for life / Education for peace. A community where children joyfully discover themselves and their world. We provide a nurturing environment where children find the freedom for their full development.

www.pacificcrestacademy.org

Open House: Please call for an appt.

Christian

No/No

$275 - $325/month

16 per class

No

8:1 or better

Musikgarten incorporated into school day

No

10995 NW 313th Ave., North Plains, OR 97133 503.647.7402 • cornerstonemch@netscape.net Call 503.282.2711 for advertising information

www.strongthinkers.com

January 15th 9-11:30 am and 4-6:00 pm No affiliation

Yes/Yes

$575 - $895 / month

49

No

10:1

All-day Montessori; Summer elementary school program

No

4729 SW Taylors Ferry Road, Portland, OR 97219 503.293.9422 • info@childsview.net www.childsview.net

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Portland City Search Winner 2005, 2006, 2007 4455 SW 99th Ave. Beaverton, OR 97005

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Say you saw it in the pages of NW Kids

Escuela Viva Dual Language School Healthy Spirits, Open Hearts, Active Minds Supporting and encouraging children to be successful and happy human beings.

www.escuela-viva.com (503) 281-6034

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15

Books Super Reads for Superhero Lovers It’s a truth universally acknowledged that a young lad with an imagination often seeks superpowers. It’s also a truth that when great superheroes are depicted in the media – namely comic books and movies – the subject matter is too PG for the faint of heart. How can a younger fan get his fix? We asked our friends at Powell’s for some suggestions.

The Adventures of Max and Pinky: Superheroes

By Maxwell Eaton III

Superhero ABC

By Bob McLeod

Max and his best friend, Pinky the pig, want to play superheroes. But when “Mighty Max” tries to relegate Pinky to the role of “stubby sidekick,” the two friends argue and part ways. Soon, though, Max finds himself in need of some saving, and luckily for him, Pinky doesn’t hold a grudge. The Adventures of Max and Pinky: Superheroes is a sweet and funny testament to friendship, forgiveness... and karmic payback.

From Astro-Man to Zinger, the superheroes in this alphabet book have some... unusual powers. Laughing Lass “laughs loudly at lawbreakers” while Bubble-Man “blows big bubbles at bullies.”

The humorous and alliterative A-to-Z is complemented by the classic comic-book style of renowned illustrator Bob McLeod. With its oversized format and use of bold colors and word balloons, this book is a great introduction to the comics genre — and a great, tongue-twisting read-aloud.

Traction Man Meets Turbodog

The Curse of the Bologna Sandwich: Melvin Beederman, Superhero #1

By Mini Grey In Mini Grey’s awardwinning sequel to Traction Man Is Here!, action hero Traction Man finds his pet Scrubbing Brush missing.

(Deemed “unhygienic” and thrown away by Dad after an epic climb up Mt. Compost Heap.)

Plus, there’s a new pet in town — battery operated Turbodog — vying for attention. But our hero is nothing if not faithful, and when he hears Scrubbing Brush’s faint cries from the “Dark and Terrible Underworld of the Bin,” he arms himself with a bottle of Germo and goes in. With its visual humor and clever personification of toys and household objects, Traction Man Meets Turbodog will become a fast favorite.

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By Greg Trine and Rhode Montijo (illustrator) Young Melvin Beederman isn’t the brawniest of superheroes — he can barely stop a speeding train — but he does all right until he loses his red cape (and his superpowers!) in a mix-up at the cleaners.

Meanwhile, third-grader Candace Brinkman (recipient of Melvin’s lost cape) has become an overnight crime fighter. When the two discover what has happened, they team up, becoming “partners in uncrime” to defeat the bank robbing McNasty brothers with “noggin power.” This engaging first book in the Melvin Beederman chapter-book series is proof that “your brain is your greatest weapon.”

Say you saw it in the pages of NW Kids

Vulli Sophia Giraffe Over at Eco Baby Gear on SE Division, shop owners report ongoing and increased interest in Sophie the Giraffe, a classic French toy that babies have teethed, loved, and played with for more than 40 years. Sophie is super flexible and has lots of parts for baby to chew; made of 100% natural rubber and food paint, she is perfect for soothing baby’s sore gums and she’s soft, light, and easy to grasp with little hands. Sophie will sure to become a favorite for your favorite baby. Sophie is so popular, you’ll find her at many local shops. $20. www.ecobabygear.com

Tooth Fairy Kit The Official Tooth Fairy Kit contains one letterpress Certificate of Record for filing with your local Tooth Fairy and one reusable silkscreened cloth deposit bag for your first and all subsequent transactions. The official certificate keeps record of name, age, tooth lost, method of extraction and compensation information. $16 www.officeofthetoothfairy.com

Smarty Parents Piggy Placemat and Craftmat This clever placemat goes way beyond the typical laminated or cloth number: it contains the mess and can be personalized!

With the see-through top, you can just slip a sheet of paper underneath to entertain or inform your child at mealtime.

The coordinating PlatterPix ($4.95 per set) teach numbers, geography, letters, and so on with cute illustrations - or use your own works of art! The best thing about the placemat is that it’s easy to clean, so messy finger paint, Play-Doh, and craft activities are just a wipe and rinse.

The company is based here in Portland, and the products are made in the U.S.A. Available in three colors, $28.95. Sold locally in several shops or online at smartyparents.com

Friendship Prints Who knew it was so easy to get crafty? The Friendship Prints frame kit makes it a snap to preserve your little one’s tiny fingers and toes behind glass. Simply choose a frame and mat, insert one of your favorite photos and make the foot or hand print. It comes with ink, adhesive letters, card stock and instructions so even the clutziest among us can create a beautiful keepsake. Perfect for gifts – thinking Valentine’s Day? Variety of sizes available, prices range.

Available locally from www.friendshipprints.com Call 503.282.2711 for advertising information

Find out why NOW is the time to be a part of this amazing company.

Home based business and all products are botanically based.

To learn more about Arbonne's pure, safe, and beneficial products: Call Kami @ 503-577-5055 or email kami1416@comcast.net

17

Food

Cauliflower

By Alisa Gaylord When I see cauliflower, I remember my own childhood and my mother’s yucky, never-ending dishes of boring, steamed cauliflower. The only thing worse was canned green beans. Now that we are in the heart of winter and our choices for veggies are more limited, cauliflower is back on my radar. Loaded with Vitamin C, as well as a good source for folate and iron, cauliflower is a great veggie for this time of year.

Of course, getting my munchkins (ages 3.5 and 1) to eat their cauliflower required recipe experimentation and tenacity. I’ve found some simple ways to cook cauliflower that our family will eat and enjoy, but it wasn’t easy. As I was writing this piece, I had a “battle of wills” with my son, who has decided over the past few months that he will no longer try new items on his plate, including a wonderful Indianinspired cauliflower dish I made the other night (see accompanying recipe (right).

After a huge standoff (lost playdate, banned cartoons and missed Wii matches), my son was finally hungry enough to try the cauliflower.

Once he took the bite of my delicious veggie dish, he chewed it vigorously and said, “Mommy, I do like cauliflower!!!”

During the standoff between us, I kept wondering if I was doing the right thing by taking a strong stand.

But in the end, the veggie-battle was worth it because now he can really enjoy a wonderful vegetable that will be a healthy choice for him the rest of his life.

Alisa is the founder/owner of Gaia Baby Food (www. gaiababyfood.com). She lives in SW Portland with her husband, two children, and their labrador dog.

How to cut cauliflower: With your hands, remove the green leaves from the bottom portion of your cauliflower head. Keeping it upside down, place the cauliflower head on a cutting board. Use the stems as a guide to chopping, cutting into smaller pieces. Cut into uniform pieces so they will be finished cooking at the same time.

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Recipes:

Puréed Cauliflower

This is a great alternative to mashed potatoes for dinner.

Ingredients: 1 Cauliflower head, cut into pieces 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil 3 tablespoons Grated Parmesan Cheese 1 tablespoon chopped fresh Parsley (I prefer Italian Flat-Leaf ) ½ cup water Over medium heat, place water into a medium sized pan fitted with a steam basket, add cauliflower.

Steam for 12 minutes until the cauliflower is fork tender. Transfer cauliflower to food processor with extra virgin olive oil and parmesan cheese. Pulse until desired consistency. Hand stir in the parsley. Enjoy!

Indian-inspired Cauliflower in Tomato Sauce

If you are vegetarian this makes a great meal with basmati rice. Or can be served as a side dish.

Ingredients: 1 Cauliflower head, cut into pieces 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1 Garlic clove, finely chopped 1 teaspoon Turmeric 1 stick Cinnamon Black Pepper to taste ½ cup Tomato Sauce, no added salt preferable 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste ¼ cup Vegetable or Chicken Broth Over medium-high heat, melt butter and olive oil in large sauté pan. Add cauliflower to pan, sprinkle with black pepper cook for five minutes. Cauliflower will get caramelized brown spots. Add garlic, turmeric, and Cinnamon cook for one minute, until you can smell the spices’ fragrance. Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste and broth. Cover pan and cook for 10 minutes. Remove lid, and cook for additional five minutes allowing the tomato sauce to thicken. Enjoy!

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Waldorf Inspired: Toys Remedies Skin Care Books Portland-made felted wool creations

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Parenting Parent Education… from 350 B.C.? !

By Janet Allison You could say that Hippocrates was the first parent educator. He was the first to attempt to solve the complex riddle of who we are and yes, perhaps even why our children do what they do! He described the basic personalities of all humans as the “Four Temperaments”—Sanguine, Choleric, Melancholic and Phlegmatic. Since then, scientists have created endless variations on the theme (the Enneagram and Myers-Briggs Personality Test, for example), all rooted in the original four personality types.

In doing so, Hippocrates provided a simple way to understand family dynamics. The temperaments of your children can help explain a lot of the mysteries of parenting, such as how two children, born of the same parents, can be sooo different! Some say that every conflict is a conflict of temperament. It follows then that understanding which temperaments live in your family and how they fit together can be instrumental in bringing harmony to your home.

Many educators use the temperaments to help them connect deeply with each student. Teachers in the Waldorf education system, for example, (www.whywaldorfworks.org) have embraced the Four Temperaments as a deeper way of knowing and guiding each child. Waldorf curriculums include ways to engage with each of the temperaments.

The first step is recognizing, and then accepting and working with, rather than against your unique combination of temperaments.

Of course, although certain temperamental tendencies exist in the young child, it is important not to pigeonhole a child into any one temperament. And also note that every temperament has its virtues and challenges…there is no one “right” temperament.

While children need to live fully into their own temperament, the goal is eventual balance of all four temperaments, each one being useful in different situations.

So, thanks to Hippocrates, we have wise insights to enliven our parenting, more than 2,000 years later! Now, that’s staying power!

Janet Allison is a parent coach and speaker. With more than 15 years as an educator and as a parent herself, she offers workshops, information, and tons of parenting resources on her website, www.parenting-advice-from-mom.com or call 503.493.7404.

The Four Temperaments Sanguine: The Social Butterfly Skipping lightly on tiptoes from one activity to another, a person with this personality has an insatiable (though fleeting) curiosity and enthusiasm for all things. The sanguine can be perceived as flighty and lacking focus. The biggest challenge for a sanguine is completing tasks!

Tigger is a classic Sanguine.

Choleric: The Passionate Leader

Firm footsteps and fiery passion are hallmarks of this temperament.

The leader in all adventures (even risky ones), Cholerics are the people who get things done! They can become tyrannical, however, if they don’t get their way. Winston Churchill and Martin Luther King Jr. embodied this temperament.

Melancholic: The Sensitive

Often with a downcast gaze, the melancholic seems preoccupied with his or her vivid inner world. A melancholic has great empathy for others (even down to the smallest bug) and often becomes a nurse or other caregiver. Eeyore is the quintessential Melancholic.

Phlegmatic: The Steady One Content to observe while others take action, he or she is a quiet and steadfast friend, reliable and willing to complete any task – in his or her own time. Winnie-thePooh with his honey pot is a classic Phlegmatic. Round and soft, the phlegmatic loves his food!

Learn More at a Temperaments Alive Workshop Saturday, February 7, 9am - noon. You’ll learn your own temperament, recognize your family dynamics, and learn what motivates each. Janet Allison, Parent Educator and Waldorf Teacher, and Marion Van Namen, Music Therapist and Teacher will be your lively guides!

For more information go to: www.parenting-advice-from-mom.com and click on Reserve Now 20

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P R O U D PA R T I C I PA N T O F

Jan. 23 - Feb. 15

Fri. - Sat. 7 pm Sat.- Sun. 2 pm

TICKETS 503-222-4480 WWW.NWCTS.ORG NW Neighborhood Cultural Ctr. 1819 NW Everett, Portland

most enjoyed by ages 6 and up

Illustration Š 2008 Lee Moyer

Call for our new color catalog!

7400 SW Macadam Ave

503-246-0056

Showroom Hours: Monday - Friday: 10-5

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21

Birthday For a Birthday that is

Out of this World The Deal A fantastic birthday venue for kids with active bodies and active imaginations, Out of this World has three main areas of cosmic attractions.

The first is its enormous “Astronaut Training” play structure with room for nearly 200 junior astronauts to explore at once. It’s more than three stories tall (but don’t worry, its fall-proof ) and it features race courses, a 23-foot slide, a moving star field, obstacles and more.

On the “moonwalk” obstacle course, kids can get their “space legs” on either of the two identical inflatable bouncy structures (one for smaller explorers and the other for bigger kids). The“Crater Crawl” features bouldering-style rock climbing with varying degrees of difficulty. The ceiling height of the Astronaut Training area is a comfortable 7 feet on the ground floor and a doable 5’8” throughout the rest of the structure, so adults can explore with their tots.

What You Get The Cosmic party is the midrange option and comes with the following: • Twelve guests for $175; additional guests are $11.50 each • Unlimited play • Table reservation with themed table settings • Invitations to send to your guests • Bottomless drinks and ice cream for each guest • Birthday room for 1 ½ hours • Party host

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Additional party packages offer delicious handcrafted pizzas, perfect for when little astronauts need to refuel.

Parental Fun Factor Its not only the kids who will have a fun time at Out of this World. Parents always play for free, and the courses and play structures are set up to allow grown-ups to play or help out as much as they’d like (with the exception of the bouncy structures). If you like bouncy houses you’ll probably have a blast.

The Fine Print The Cosmic Party is for up to 12 guests and costs $175; each additional guest is $11.50. (Keep in mind that parents and adults aren’t considered in the guest count.)

To make sure you can get the date and time you’re little birthday boy or girl has his or her heart set on, Out of this World recommends contacting them at least four weeks in advance to make reservations.

As far as the menu goes, pizza prices range from $16-23. There is also salad, beverages and ice cream available.

Out of This World Pizza and Play 6255 NW Century Blvd, Hillsboro, OR 97124 (503) 629-8700 www.outofthisworld.net

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503-533-5438 munchkinplayland.com 23

Crafts Pop-Up Heart Valentine’s Day Card Show your friends and family how much you really love them by making them a handmade Valentine’s Day card this year! This project is pretty and fun to make (younger children may need some help).

Materials

• 8 ½” X 11” pink or white cardstock or construction paper

• Red cardstock and scrap paper

• Envelope

• Pencil

• Markers

• Ruler

• Scissors

• Glue and tape

• Stamps and ink (optional)

• Stickers, glitter or ribbon (optional)

Steps

• Cut pink cardstock in half (5 ½” X 8 ½”), fold in half to make card body.

• Fold scrap paper in half, and on folded side of paper draw half a heart (about 1 ½ inches).

• Cut out folded heart and unfold.

• Use heart template to trace six hearts onto the red paper and cut them out.

• Glue one heart to the middle of the front of the card and one heart to each of the four corners of the front of the card, set the sixth heart to the side.

• Continue to decorate the front of your card with stickers, glitter, ribbon or markers.

• Next using the leftover red paper cut out two strips (about half an inch by 7 inches”).

• Tape the strips together perpendicular to each other.

• Like an accordion, fold one strip of paper over the other and continue doing this until you reach the end and then tape them together again, this will be the “spring” to make your sixth heart pop-up out of the inside of your card.

• Inside your card tape the spring to the middle of the right side.

• Tape the heart to the end of the spring.

• Stamp or write a Valentine message to the inside of the card.

• Sign and date the back so that the person you give it to knows who made it!

Dawn Sorem teaches arts and crafts classes and she does private classes/parties for both children and adults.

If you would like more information or to set up a time to have her do an art project for a group you can contact her at envelopcards@gmail.com. Dawn is also the owner and designer of Envelop Cards, you can view her latest designs and see a list of her upcoming classes at: www. envelopcards.com.

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GUITAR LESSONS FOR KIDS! The Childbloom® Guitar Program for young people 5-12, is a fun and inspiring way to learn the skill of making music.

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Outings Great Wolf Lodge a Wet and Wholesome

Family Destination

The main attraction at The Great Wolf Lodge is the enormous, gigantic water park, which is pretty amazing and unlike anything I’ve ever seen. There’s something for everyone here: The gigantic water slides / roller coasters provide thrills for the adults and larger children; the small tots wading area entertains with spraying features, tiny slides, and big things that dump water; the medium-sized slide / dumping area lets preschoolers and early elementary-age kiddos go down big slides; and the wave pool, an “ocean” with real waves, is just plain fun for everyone.

This is where we spent most of our time, riding and surfing and ducking and bobbing in the pool.

Everyone wears a life jacket and anyone can be on an inflatable raft, so it’s super fun to bob up and down and let the (big) waves crash over you.

The water (and the air inside the water park) is well-heated and cozy. As the rain falls outside the windows, you’re hanging out in your swimsuit – a welcome respite from the winter days. At first the temperature seems a bit much, but you appreciate never feeling the need to towel off as you move from slide to pool to lounge area. The water park is open from 9am – 10pm, so stamina is the only thing holding you back from tons of water action.

We have smaller children, who could only play in the water area for about 1.5 – two hours at once, so we had plenty of time to partake of the hotel’s many other activities.

The “cub club” craft area for littler ones is pretty nice, with both organized and drop-in activities, as well as storytimes in the lobby. (The lodge emphasizes togetherness, and as such there is no “dropping your kid off ” at the kid club.) The Lodge has two main restaurants, both with quality fare– a bar and grill and an all-you-can-eat communal-style buffet. In addition to an arcade and videogame lounge, there’s an intricate, interactive fantasy game called MagiQuest that turns 26

your little one into a budding Harry Potter in search of mystical clues and adventures throughout the hotel’s public areas.

We noted the abundance of older children and teenagers. A walk through the halls after the water park closed was like a trip to the dorm – boys barreling by with liters of soda, girls tapping away on their phones. And the teen dance was pretty hopping too. This seems like the perfect destination for families with kids this age - many of the rooms are designed as suites-within-suites, with bunk beds and plenty of privacy.

The only downside to the Great Wolf Lodge is that it’s not exactly a bargain. A standard room, which comes with two queen beds and a sitting area, runs around $279 per night. This does include entrance to the water park for two days, which is significant. (note the water park is not open to the masses, guests only), but not much else. Dinner in the buffet, for instance, is about $18 per adult and $8 for children.

The wizard game is another $15, the gaming / dance lounge is another $10, and so on.

The Great Wolf Lodge is a special-treat sort of destination (we were witness to several birthday song performances). You are really on holiday with your family, with no airline trip or travel hassle.

The place is pretty awesome, and we look forward to returning. Just as soon as everyone is big enough (48” at minimum), we’ll be lining up for a family trip down the Howling Tornado. — 

The Great Wolf Lodge

20500 Old Highway 99, SW Grand Mound, WA 98531 800.640.9653 www.greatwolf.com Say you saw it in the pages of NW Kids

Real Style, Real Fun *haircuts, coloring, styling *mini-manicures & pedicures *birthday parties *fun accessories & unique gifts 5656 Hood St. Suite 105, West Linn, OR 97068 503-657-3975 www.sitstillkids.com

walk-ins welcomed—appointments recommended

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February CALENDAR PERFORMANCES Through Feb 15 ALICE IN WONDERLAND Both kiddos and their parents will love to get lost with Alice in her world of wonder during the Northwest Children’s Theater’s performance of Alice in Wonderland. Show dates and times vary so check online. Adult tickets are $20 and youths are $16. 503-222-4480 or www.nwcts.org WIN TICKETS! Visit www.wkids.com/tickets for details!

over to the Portland Children’s Museum for an evening of fun, complete with crafts, a movie and dinner. 4015 SW CanyonRd. 503-223-6500 or www.portlandcm.org Feb 14 SWEETHEART DINNER AT ME TOO! CAFÉ Me Too! Café is hosting a special Sweethearts dinner on Valentine’s Day, allowing parents to have a nice dinner on their own while their kiddos work on a special gift in the play area. 16755 SW Baseline, #102, Beaverton.

503-439-6586 or www.metoobeaverton.com

Everyday*

Outings

Through Feb 15 CLICK CLACK MOO: COWS THAT TYPE Coined as a “Broadway-style Barnyard Blockbuster,” Click Clack Moo, Oregon Children’s Theatre’s most recent production is sure to be lots of funny and fun farmyard comedy fit for the whole family. Newmark Theatre, 1111 SW Broadway. Prices range from $17-29 and times and dates vary. 503-228-9571 or www.octc.org

*(everyday unless noted otherwise. Check our website for full detail and location)

Feb 6-22, 28 WHEN ANIMALS WERE PEOPLE Tears of Joy Theatre has put together another funfilled puppet performance for our enjoyment. Two tales from south of the border are melded together to create one fantastic story. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

At the Winningstad Theater through Feb 22nd and at the Royal Durst Theatre on the 28th. $16-19. 503-248-0557 or www.tojt.com

TUESDAYS

Feb 18 THOMAS & FRIENDS LIVE! ON STAGE Thomas and his friends will be making a fun-filled stop at the Rose Quarter this Feb 18th at 6:30pm. Your family can join in on the adventures of this spirited little train as he and his companions help out a circus that has come to town and wind up saving the day. Tickets are $8-45. 877789-7673 or www.rosequarter.com WIN TICKETS! Visit www.wkids.com/tickets for details!

Feb 22 OREGON SYMPHONY PRESENTS CREATIVE KIDS Showcasing some of the most talented young soloists, composers and instrumentalists from our own backyard, Creative Kids is chock-full of music written for young listeners. Shows at 2pm and 4pm at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 SW Broadway. Tickets range from $5-42. 503228-1353 or www.oregonsymphony.com

VALENTINE’S Day ACTIVITIES Feb 14 BE MY VALENTINE KIDS NIGHT OUT The Portland Children’s Museum is making sure that parents can get out on Valentines Day for some romance while their kids have a fun night of their own. From 5:309:30pm on Valentines Day, kids ages 5-15 can head on 28

MONDAYS Every OTHER Monday: • Penny’s Puppet Show at Overlook House, 10am & 11am • Drop-In Indoor Playtime at the Pearl Court Activity Center, 3pm – 5pm • SECOND Tuesday – Bargain admission at the Oregon Zoo, 9am – 4pm • PJ Storytime at the Beaverton library, 7pm, all ages

WEDNESDAYS

• Jam with Johnny at the Children’s Museum, 10am and noon • Free “Bugs” Parent/Child classes at The Little Gym in February, 1:30 • Messy Monkeys Arts and Crafts at 100th Monkey Studio, 10:30am - noon

THURSDAYS • Parent / Preschool Swim at Southwest Community Center (*this also occurs on other days)

FRIDAY

• FIRST Friday evening – Free admission to the Children’s Museum 5:30 – 8pm • FIRST Friday evening – Extended Open Hours at My Masterpiece Art Studio 5:30 – 8pm

SATURDAY

• Guided Nature Walks, Tryon Creek State Park, Lake Oswego, 10am – 11:30am • SECOND and FOURTH Saturdays, Little Kids Jamboree, Mississippi Pizza, 4pm – 5pm

SUNDAY

• Family Day at the Portland Art Museum, downtown, 12:30 – 3:30pm • Free Tours of the Magness Memorial Tree Farm, Wilsonville, 2pm Say you saw it in the pages of NW Kids

Feb 14 BE MY VALENTINE Even the animals at the Oregon Zoo will be getting in on the festivities this Valentines Day. At 10:30am, the zookeepers will be presenting several animals with their special gifts. For instance, the sea otters will be enjoying red, heart-shaped frozen seafood treats. 503-2261561 or www.oregonzoo.org

EVENTS ALL MONTH DaVinci: The Genius Exhibition at OMSI Explore the art and science of Leonardo da Vinci, one of the greatest minds the world has ever known. During his lifetime da Vinci was an inventor, painter, scientist, engineer, musician, architect, and more. Da Vinci: The Genius originated in Italy and is the most complete and comprehensive traveling exhibition on da Vinci ever created.

Though Feb 8 CHINESE GARDEN FESTIVAL Join in the celebration for the year of the ox at the Portland Classical Chinese Garden’s annual festival. With lots of entertainment for families and children, the festival will include lion dances, red envelopes for everyone, storytelling, martial arts demonstrations and much more. Activities vary by day so be sure to check the schedule online. 503-228-8131 or www. portlandchinesegarden.org Feb 8 OPEN HOUSE AT THE LITTLE GYM The Little Gym of Beaverton and The Little Gym of Lake Oswego invite local residents to experience firsthand the many activities offered at the gyms. 2-5pm. Visit www.thelittlegym.com or call (503) 579-0859 for Beaverton; (503) 5959702 for Lake Oswego Feb 12 & 13 PARENTING LECTURE & WORKSHOPS Guest speaker Kim Payne will be giving two free lectures and workshops at Cedarwood School, 3030 SW 2nd Ave. The first topic, on the 12th from 6:30-9:30pm will

❤ Family

be, “The Many Faces of Bullying” and the second, on the 13th from 9am-12 noon will be, “Planting the Seeds of Kindness.”

For more information visit www.thechildtoday.com Feb 13 FAMILY FRIDAYS The Community Music Center has started up a new program that will feature a different family concert on a select Friday from each month.

This Feb 13th from 7-8:30pm, Tom Grant, an instrumentalist, singer and entertainer will perform at the community Music Center, 3350 SE Francis St. Tickets are $5 per person or $15 for the family. 503-823-3177 or www.communitymusiccenter.org Feb 14 & 21 PARENTS SURVIVAL NIGHT On Feb 14th (Beaverton) and Feb 21st (Lake Oswego) The Little Gym is making it easy for parents to have a date night sans the kidlets. Ages 3-10, call for times and pricing. Beaverton location: 14767 SW Teal Blvd. Beaverton, (503) 579-0859. Lake Oswego location: 17890 SW McEwan Road, Lake Oswego, (503) 595-9702 or www.TheLittleGym.com and search for Oregon locations.

Feb 21 THE HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS The Harlem Globetrotters will be bringing their 2009 “Spinning the Globe” world tour to Portland’s own Rose Garden on Feb 21st for two shows starting at 2pm and 7:30pm. It will no doubt be an exciting and entertaining show of great family fun complete with basketball wizardry, hilarious antics and fan interaction. Tickets range from $22-$135. 877-789-7673 or www.rosequarter.com WIN TICKETS! Visit www. wkids.com/tickets for details!

Feb 13-22 PORTLAND JAZZ FESTIVAL With over 150 jazz events, many of which are completely free, the Portland Jazz Festival will be chock-full of musical, educational and entertaining family fun. Be sure to check the website for specific times and locations. 503-228-5299 or go to www.pdxjazz.com

friendly ❤

Great for afternoon playdates! featuring a Healthy & organic kids menu keep the kids happy in our FUN indoor play area!

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29

Mama Says

The Secret Lives of Dirty Clothes

Laundry exposed: What’s really going in that hamper?

By Jacki Sturkie Remember the single life? Casual Sundays filled with sleeping in, brunch whenever, then laundry in the afternoon- if you felt like it. When I was single, noticing the habits of my dirty clothes never occurred to me. There was nothing alarming about the casual pile of jeans on the floor or a sock tossed here and there. You simply tossed clothes in the washer, dried them, and then put them away.

Mission accomplished. The laundry chore could easily be accomplished once a week.

After two kids, suddenly the laundry pile became a laundry tower – billowing and throbbing like a scifi experiment gone awry. Doing laundry wasn’t just a task anymore. It had become a demanding full-time job. I tried to uncover the source of the mayhem.

Maybe the increase in dirty clothes could be traced back the easy accessibility of our laundry shoot?

Having a laundry shoot upstairs that drops clothes at high speed into a hamper in the basement keeps our living space clean. Maybe too clean. Maybe the kids were filling up the hamper? All those preschool fashion emergencies can create quite the pile of clean laundry they only think is dirty.

TIME OUT: THE MAMALOGUES Jacki Sturckie is also behind TIME OUT: THE MAMALOGUES, a new series of stand-up / storytelling, all by moms for moms.

Entitled, “Honey, I Shrunk My Libido,” February’s Mamalogue theme is Sex. Where did it go after you had kids?

If your laundry gets more action than you do, then this show is for you. If you found your libido, by all means – tell us how!

Thursday, Feb. 12th, 7-8:30pm Airplay Café 701 E Burnside St. | Portland, OR 97214 www.airplaycafe.com

Even when nobody’s home, the pile grows. Why when I just put four loads of clean clothes back in drawers do more mysteriously appear in the hamper? After obsessing over the situation, I’ve decided there’s only one plausible explanation: Laundry is sexually active. Clearly, the dirty clothes are, well, way dirtier than I thought. I turn my back for one minute and they multiply.

Shoot the “you guys better not” look into a few innocent pieces of laundry in the hamper, they don’t care. They’re worse than teenagers on an empty sofa. Next thing I know, clothes have reproduced faster than those horny little dust bunnies hiding in the corners. Do sweatpants get turned on by sparkly princess pajamas? Do fuzzy little socks jump other fuzzy little socks? You know it. Don’t even get me started on the exploits of bad-boy boot-cut jeans.

I know what you’re thinking: Have I tried separating them? Why, yes. Yes I have. It doesn’t matter because cold-wash clothes are just as attracted to other cold-wash items. Delicates seem to behave themselves, so no way am I releasing them into the general laundry population. But that machinewashable clingy polyester material strikes me as the source of real trouble. It’s dainty and delicate, yet rugged enough to withstand the spin cycle. Why doesn’t it stand up for itself, and just say no?

The thing is, thanks to the insatiable sexual appetites of laundry, now I have to take care of more of them. The washing machine buzzes, and I scurry downstairs to see if I can bust them in the act. Just like teenagers, they freeze. Maybe there’s more to my laundry obsession than meets the eye.

Maybe I’m just jealous. Because at the end of the laundry cycle, they get more action than I do. As much as I hate to admit it, I’ll put off a sexual encounter with my husband because damn it, the last thing I need is more laundry.

Jacki Sturkie is a Portland mom, stand-up comedian, and owner of Sass Mouth Cards, greeting cards that take on life as a jaded mom. In her former life, Jacki worked as a copywriter and stand-up comic but quit doing it when she got tired of living out of her car. Jacki also writes Daily SASSfirmations (a not-so-inspirational blog at www. sassfirmations.blogspot.com), runs an industrial design firm with her husband (foundry3d.com), and tries to keep her two small children from impaling themselves on household objects.

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31

daycare preschool co-op montessori bilingual reggio arts / sciences pre-K kindergarten waldorf charter private public applications open houses

do your homework.

www.nwkids.com/guide/schools