L I V E • PLAY • DO
magazine
NERD & EXCURSION CAMPS HIKING WITH KIDS DAY TRIP: VANCOUVER BABY BOOT CAMP
nwkidsmagazine.com
April 2015
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Contents APRIL 2015
8 Head North: Explore Vancouver 12 Hiking with Kids: A Guide to Fun on the Trail 18 Into the Wild: Oregon Excursion Camps 22 Nerd Camps: Engaging the Left Brain 24 Resource Guide: More Nerd & Excursion Camps 28 Best of Portland and Beyond: Our Top Picks for Getting Out This Month 34 Finding Fitness After Baby 38 Found Around Town: Stem Toys
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EDITORS’
Corner
Spring in Portland is quite possibly our favorite time of year. Yes, we’ve had an extremely mild winter (a little weird frankly), but we’re still ready for longer days, spending time in our city’s parks, digging in the dirt, eating outdoors and adventuring in our neighborhoods and beyond.
This month we head north to explore Vancouver. There’s plenty to do on the Washington side of the Columbia River. When we need a change of scenery, but aren’t up for a long drive, we drive across the bridges for some fun. If you haven’t discovered Vancouver, head to page 8 and find out how to spend a day there with your family. In this issue we’re also rounding up some of the area’s amazing camp offerings. The Pacific Northwest abounds with excursion camps for families and older kids. Be sure to check out those on p. 18. And if you have self-proclaimed nerds in your family, you may want to read up on which camps they might like on p. 22. April means one thing for NW Kids. It's our 4th annual Summer Camp Expo at OMSI! If you still haven’t decided where your kids will go to camp this summer, come on down to OMSI on April 11th. We’ll be there from 10 am-5pm with 35 local camps. You can find out what each camp is about by talking to camp staff and you could win a free week of camp and other amazing prizes in our raffle. It's a win-win! Happy Spring, Kelley & Beth
Cover and Contents photography courtesy of NIKKI MCLEOD
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Listings Aadland Dental........................................................................ 9 Adventure WILD..................................................................... 25 Archers Afield......................................................................... 21 Art a la Carte.......................................................................... 37 Atlas Immersion Academy.................................................... 21 Baby Boot Camp.................................................................... 37 Baby Sleep Trainer.................................................................. 37 Barre3....................................................................................... 2 Bennett Suzuki....................................................................... 13 Big Lake Youth Camp............................................................. 21 Body Basics and Beyond........................................................ 39 Candace Gregory.................................................................... 13 Cascade Mountain School..................................................... 23 Catlin Gabel School................................................................ 19 Children's Art Institute........................................................... 35 Chinook Book......................................................................... 39 City of Hillsboro...................................................................... 21 Congregation Kol Ami Bagel-On............................................. 9 Congregation Kol Ami Gala..................................................... 9 Cotton Babies........................................................................... 9 Dr. Pike Dentistry for Children.................................................. 2 Echo Theater Company.......................................................... 25 Eco Maids............................................................................... 11 Engineering for Kids.............................................................. 35 Experience Theatre Project..................................................... 25 German International School................................................ 16 Glendoveer Tennis.................................................................. 25 Goodtime Chinese School..................................................... 25 Hidden Valley Camp............................................................... 25 International School.............................................................. 23 Jennifer Brommer Photography............................................ 11 Just Between Friends............................................................. 37 Kevaland................................................................................ 23 KUIK........................................................................................ 39 Lake Oswego Community Rowing........................................ 35 Little Fruit Farm...................................................................... 13 Mad Science........................................................................... 23 Math Gamers......................................................................... 35 Meadowood Springs............................................................. 35 Metro Arts.............................................................................. 29 Modern Orthodontist............................................................... 9 Nelson Pediatric Dentistry....................................................... 7 Northeast Community Center............................................... 19 NW Film Center...................................................................... 35 NWK Summer Camp Contest................................................ 26 OCAC...................................................................................... 29 Omega Gymnastics................................................................ 29 OMSI....................................................................................... 26 Oregon Children's Theatre....................................................... 7 Oregon Children's Theatre Acting Academy......................... 19 Oregon Zoo............................................................................. 31 Pizazz Baking Camp............................................................... 35 Portland Aquarium................................................................ 11 Portland Children's Dentistry................................................ 13 Portland Early Learning......................................................... 35 Portland Jewish Academy..................................................... 19 Portland Montessori.............................................................. 33 Portland Parks and Rec Aquatics........................................... 27 Portland Rock Gym................................................................ 16 Portland Trampoline.............................................................. 15 Propagize............................................................................... 13 Rewild.................................................................................... 27 Royal Ridges........................................................................... 33 Saturday Academy................................................................. 35 School of Rock........................................................................ 27 Schoolita Alegria.................................................................... 29 Spanish with Sarah................................................................ 39 Spielwerk Toys.......................................................................... 9 SW Community Center.......................................................... 31 Sweet Peas Kidzone............................................................... 31 The Kids' Backyard Store........................................................ 15 Trackers Earth......................................................................... 40 Urban Farm Store................................................................... 13 VillaSport............................................................................... 17 Westside Academy................................................................ 35 Westside Montessori International....................................... 39 Willowbrook Arts Camps....................................................... 27 World of Smiles...................................................................... 11 Young People's Theater Project............................................. 33 Zenger Farm........................................................................... 33 6 | NW Kids Magazine
magazine Publisher / Advertising Director Michelle Snell michelle@nwkidsmagazine.com Editorial Beth Friesenhahn beth@nwkidsmagazine.com Kelley Schaefer-Levi kelley@nwkidsmagazine.com Account Manager Laurel Ackerman laurel@nwkidsmagazine.com Client Services Coordinator/ Client Ad Design Karel Chan karel@nwkidsmagazine.com Design Robyn Barbon robyn@folkloremedia.com Advertising Inquiries: 503-282-2711, ext. 1 sales@nwkidsmagazine.com Accounting & Business Services Heather Rex heather@nwkidsmagazine.com Connect With Us: • Phone: 503.282.2711 • email: contact@nwkidsmagazine.com • Facebook: facebook.com/nwkids • Twitter: @nwkids • Pinterest: pinterest.com/nwkids NW Kids is published monthly by Miche Media, 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.
WHAT WE’RE READING
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Head North: Explore Vancouver by ANNAGRACE KAYE
Photograph courtesy of FORT VANCOUVER LIBRARIES
Just across the Columbia River from Portland is a sprawling, historic town that many Portlanders have never even been to. Vancouver residents love to laugh about the assumptions many people have about our home. The truth is that Vancouver is rich in beautifully maintained parks, well-regarded schools, and a growing number of locally owned coffee shops and eateries. Here are some of my favorite places around the location Meriwether Lewis once described as “the only desired situation for settlement west of the Rocky Mountains.”
ARNADA NATURALS
There’s always something delicious or unusual to sample at this small but wellstocked market. This is where Vancouver families go for local honey, kombucha, and healthy snacks. The owner is a former buyer from Whole Food Markets who knows the latest in health and wellness. 2407 Main Street • arnadanaturals.com
COTTON BABIES
Cotton Babies is a one-stop shop for everything you could possibly need for the first few years of baby’s life. From cloth diapering systems to quality toys and accessories, their sales people know everything you need to know. Try out a baby carrier, push a stroller around, and explore the newest and coolest in natural parenting. There’s even a Saturday dad’s group! 106 Grand Boulevard • cottonbabies.com
FORT VANCOUVER NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
You could easily spend a whole day here. Begin at the reconstructed British fur trading fort ($3 admission, 15 and younger are free) and then enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the beautiful grassy fields. Find the path to the Confluence Project’s Vancouver Land Bridge and explore the art honoring the area’s First Nations. Face east from the top of the bridge and you can watch planes take off and land at the Pearson Field Airport. Stay on the path and you’ll go from the riverfront into downtown. 1501 E Evergreen Boulevard nps.gov/fova/index.htm
ICE CREAM RENAISSANCE
This locally owned and sourced ice cream shop is a favorite after school haunt of Vancouver families. Whimsically decorated and filled with the heavenly aroma of made from scratch waffle cones, there are flavors and options for virtually every taste and sensibility. Featured flavors like eggnog and blueberry pancake rotate each month, while standards like honey vanilla and old fashioned milk chocolate are always a win with kids. 1925 Main Street • icecreamrenaissance.com
KIGGINS THEATRE
Photograph courtesy of COTTON BABIES 8 | NW Kids Magazine
Named for a former Vancouver mayor, this theatre is a popular family destination. A single screen shows classics, independent continued on p. 10
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films, and popular kids’ movies in a restored Art Deco building with an updated digital projection system (funded through Kickstarter in 2013). Come for the after school matinee programs and stay for the best theatre popcorn you’ve ever had. 1011 Main Street • kigginstheatre.net
MARSHALL PARK PLAYGROUND
Known to local children as “the red playground”, Marshall sits next to Clark College. Its 19 acres include soccer fields, trees, a community garden, nature play area, picnic shelter, and yes, the huge, red, super fun playground. 1015 E. McLoughlin • cityofvancouver.us/ parksrec/page/marshall-park
THE MIGHTY BOWL
Vancouver’s very first food cart serves up bean and rice bowls, salads, and smoothies with good humor and excellent service. There are plenty of kid-friendly options, too. Their location changes regularly, but you can keep up to date by following their Facebook page. themightybowl.com
Photograph courtesy of THE MIGHTY BOWL
MON AMI
It’s always a good day when you begin with a delicious crepe and hot Stumptown coffee at this favorite haunt of Vancouver families. The storefront may be small but there are board games, cozy tables and chairs, and a fantastic location that’s one part small town Main Street and one part tree-lined neighborhood. Browse the rotating selection of work for sale by local artisans while you’re there. 1906 Main Street • yelp.com/biz/mon-amivancouver-2 10 | NW Kids Magazine
THE SOURCE CLIMBING CENTER
Owners Michael Lary and Guruhans Kroesen have created a vibrant climbing gym with a knowledgeable crew and ever-changing walls perfect for burning off excess energy. There is a special, kids-only mezzanine with its own bouldering wall and slide. After school kids’ clubs are grouped by age and skill. Climb on! (Ages 5 and up.) 1118 Main Street • sourceclimbing.com
Photograph courtesy of THE SOURCE
FORT VANCOUVER REGIONAL LIBRARIES
The downtown Vancouver Community Library is a modern, light-filled building boasts thoughtful design elements throughout. Grab some coffee and a piece of heavenly banana bread from Thatcher’s Coffee in the lobby and then head up to the children’s floor, where the unique Early Learning Center entices little ones to play and explore. Older children love the cozy reading chairs, the extensive selection of books, and the tables perfect for stacks of graphic novels. Be sure to check out the fifth floor terrace for incredible views of Portland and the Columbia River. If you want to explore further, both the Mall Connection and Cascade Park library locations have been recently remodeled. One offers a convenient and quiet retreat during family shopping trips and the other is right next to a community center with an amazing indoor pool. 901 C Street • fvrl.org For more resources, visit nwkidsmagazine.com Annagrace Kaye CD(DONA) is a birth and postpartum doula in Vancouver, WA. She also leads Sacred Pregnancy classes for women and couples. coradoula.com
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HIKING WITH KIDS : A GUIDE TO FUN ON THE TRAIL Article and photographs by BEN MCLEOD
We Portlanders are a lucky bunch. We live in a city literally surrounded by natural wonders. Our western edge is made up of steep, wooded hills. To the north, we have the beautiful Columbia River. The iconic Mt. Hood and its foothills are to the east, and the verdant and abundant Willamette Valley lies south. Everywhere we look, we can see adventure calling us. When you’re a young adult, without any worries in the world (i.e. children and their sundries), it’s easy to get out and explore. The task seems a bit more daunting when you have kids. It doesn’t have to be. With a little prep work and patience, you can get back out into the wilderness, and teach a new generation to appreciate it!
EASE ON IN The secret to great family hikes is to train your children early, without letting them know you’re training them. Ease into things. When they’re real little, have them hop out of the stroller and walk as far as they can. Sometimes that might be half a block and will take half an hour. That’s OK. They’re getting used to moving under their own power.
NURTURE THE ADVENTURE Turn every outing into an adventure. It shouldn’t matter if it’s a walk to the library, 12 | NW Kids Magazine
or a ramble down to your local park. The goal is to get your child to love exploring the outdoors. Look for fairy houses and gnome holes. Get to know the birds that live in your neighborhood.
BRING LOTS OF SNACKS This should be obvious, but it needs to be stated. Throw an absurd amount of snacks into your bag, and then double it. Snack breaks will be requested often, and that’s OK. Little bodies need a lot of fuel. When they’re a bit older (like, say, 6ish), get them a small backpack so they can carry their own food and water.
BE PREPARED TO "FAIL" One of the most important lessons that I, a goal-oriented, “I’m hiking to the summit” hiker, learned pretty early with my kids; prepare to not make your distance goal. Keep this in mind when scouting out hikes; an out-and-back is better than a loop. I learned this the hard way and ended up carrying a 4-year-old further than I’d care to recall.
FIGURE OUT THEIR LIMITS This is a tricky one. The secret is to, over time, build up your children’s ability to hike further. This involves encouraging them to go a little further than they want to go without incurring the wrath of THE MELTDOWN. continued on p. 14
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You know your child best. Pay close attention and try to time it so you can turn around while they still have some energy left, but have gone a bit further than the last time. Snacks always help!
WHAT TO WEAR Don’t worry about buying sturdy (and expensive) hiking boots for your kids (or you, for that matter). Running sneakers are going to be your best bet. Even Pacific Crest throughhikers have thrown out bulky hiking boots in favor of light trail-running shoes. The important thing is your children’s feet stay dry and their shoes don’t slip around. I shouldn’t have to say this, but I see a lot of them still in existence: NO CROCS! They are the worst thing you can put on your kid.
WHERE TO GO • Y our local park. We have a lot of them. Chances are, there’s one within walking distance of your house! • Th e 4T trail is one of the best ways to explore our city. Start on the Streetcar in the South Waterfront and take it to the Blue or Red Line MAX and ride the MAX to the Zoo. From the Zoo, you hike up to Council Crest (there are two options; all trails or the stroller-friendly trails and
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paved paths), and then down to OHSU where you ride the Tram down to the South Waterfront. • F orest Park has tons of trails. And there are plenty of off-trail adventures to be had. • O aks Bottom has a nice trail around the pond that you can hit up before or after that roller skating session at Oaks Park. • T ryon State Park is Oregon’s only state park within a major metropolitan area, although you’d have a hard time believing you’re in a “major metropolitan area” when you’re hiking the trails! • Th e Columbia River Gorge is so full of adventure it’s almost a disservice to mention it in passing (and kids LOVE waterfalls; so do you). Do yourself a favor and just go explore it. While most of the trails are family-friendly, they can tend to have some steep drop-offs. Keep the kids close. Ben McLeod lives in Portland with his wife Nikki and two sons, Liam and Campbell. They can generally be found exploring the many natural wonders found in the Portland area; from hiking in the Columbia River Gorge, skiing on Mt. Hood, or kayaking on the Willamette. They are a family that thrives on adventure.
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INTO THE WILD:
Photograph by OMSI
by KELLEY GARDINER
Summer camp is a great time to get your kids thinking about the world outside their usual day-to-day life. Why not help by getting them out of town? These extraordinary excursion camps take kids out of the Portland area for a day or a week at a time, and open them up to new experiences. Within a few hours, we’re lucky enough to have deserts, waterfalls, forests, mountains, rainforest, caves, rivers and lakes. Time to go explore them.
WILDERNESS HIKE Opal Creek Expeditions
Opal Creek’s mission is “promoting conservation through educational experiences in wilderness.” What does that mean for your camper? They’ll backpack through the wilderness, learning about the forest and watershed around them, all while experiencing nature firsthand, getting away from their screens for a little while, and making new friends. Some of the expeditions end up with a rafting trip on the final day to rest those tired feet. Campers and their parents arrange their own transportation to Opal Creek, about 55 miles east of Salem. opalcreek.org
WAGON TRAIN COAST RANGE TREK 4-H via OSU Extension
For an incredible adventure that your family will never forget, hop on the wagon train and trek through the coast range just like the pioneers did, with a little less trail-clearing
and a few more modern conveniences. This camp is a commitment, with several meetings and a tune-up tide required, but your young trekkers (ages ten and up) will get out of it what they put into it. Adult riders with a longing for the open trail are also invited. The staging area for this trek will be Reechers Camp, west of Portland via Highway 26 or 6. extension.oregonstate.edu
ART EXPEDITION AND COSMIC ADVENTURE Catlin Gabel School
Hike, take in the fresh air, and funnel that inspiration into creative visions. Or, learn all about stars and constellations, and then spend summer evenings stargazing in the fresh air of the high desert. Both of these are options for kids through Catlin Gabel’s summer camps. The Art Expedition camp will take day hikes outside Portland, then work on their art before heading home each day. Cosmic Adventure campers learn about astronomy at their homebase in Portland, continued on p. 20
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might include wilderness survival, wildlife tracking, edible plants, homesteading, fishing, water ecology, theater, archery, blacksmithing, and a whole lot more. Drop the kids off at the TrackersPDX headquarters in SE Portland. trackerspdx.com
Photograph by OPAL CREEK
takes a trip out to McMinnville’s Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum, and then heads on an overnight trip to Pine Mountain Observatory outside Bend. catlin.edu/page.cfm?p=1013
ROD, REEL, AND MORE The Audubon Society
The Audubon Society offers a plentitude of trips and excursions this summer for your young explorers who want to learn more about the natural world. At the Rod, Reel, and Sea camp, kids take to the sea for deep-sea fishing and crabbing. Not in the mood for seafood? The High Seas & Low Tides camp will have you spotting and logging species instead of catching them. You might be jealous if you send your kids to the San Juan Island Adventure, complete with sea kayaking and whale watching. Get wild in the Wallowas, or learn archery skills at an overnight wilderness camp. Pick up and drop off for all camps is at Upper MacLeay Park in NW Portland. audubonportland.org
OVERNIGHT CAMPS Trackers Earth
Trackers’ overnight camps near Sandy offer a camp experience that’s a bit more rugged than a classic summer camp, and offers a few more challenges, but with the kind of support that helps kids grow and become more confident. Campers choose from a range of themed camps with activities that
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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CAMP Oregon Episcopal School
If your little explorers, like a little variety, try out OES’ Outdoor Adventure Camp. Younger kids (second-fifth grade) can get all the action of an outdoor camp without missing any family time at home. Campers will “learn how to shoot a longbow, cook outdoors, construct shelters, set up tents, catch trout on a fly, and observe wildlife” in a different location each day, from the Gorge to the Coast, and then go home to rest up for a whole new adventure. oes.edu
ANCIENT FOSSILS, FARAWAY STARS OMSI
Science is the name of the game at OMSI’s residential camp near Fossil, Oregon. At Camp Hancock, programming for kids from second grade through high school is based around astronomy, fossils and paleontology, or desert survival skills. In addition to Camp Hancock, OMSI offers overnight camps and quality programing up and down the coasts of Oregon and Washington, backpacking, and exploring the trail of Lewis and Clark. Can’t decide? How about the “Hit the Road” camp that offers daily field trips, ending with an overnight at Newport South Beach? programs.omsi.edu Kelley Gardiner is a Portland native, a freelance writer and blogger, and the mother of one sweet toddler. To see what she’s up to, visit kelleygardiner.com
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NERD CAMPS:
ENGAGING THE LEFT BRAIN by KELLEY SCHAEFER-LEVI
Young Nerds, we love you! Does your kid thrive in math or science? Do they use the words infinitesimal and theorem in their every day vocabulary? If so, it may be an undertaking to keep them engaged during the summer months. Gaming at home may seem like the only option, but why not send them to a camp where they can meet like minds and have fun? There are plenty of camps where campers can think strategically, apply Lego physics or learn platform gaming.
BITS, BYTES & BOTS A great choice for kids who love anime, robotics or platform gaming. Campers have a blast while learning skills that will help them in school and beyond. Options span robotics and programming to Game Maker, Anime and Brick film making. For beginners and advanced campers aged 6-16. bitsbytesbots.com
CHESS ODYSSEY
Strategic thinkers and game lovers can refine skills or learn the basics of chess at Chess Odyssey. Each camp features substantial instruction in a fun and exciting environment. Campers are divided into study-play groups where they explore the techniques, shortcuts, and methods used to win game after game in practical play. For players aged 6-16. chessodyssey.com
ENGINEERING FOR KIDS Engineering camps inspire children to build on their natural curiosity by teaching engineering concepts through handson learning. For kids ages 4 to 14, junior, apprentice or master campers take to the skies in an aerospace camp, learn the ins and outs of electrical engineering and game creation or learn the basics of environmental or industrial engineering. engineeringforkids.com
ID TECH Intensive 2-week, pre-college academies for teens ages 13-18 and iD Tech Mini for ages 6-9. Experience personalized learning with 22 | NW Kids Magazine
a maximum of eight students per instructor, and use the best brand name products from industry leaders like Adobe, Apple, Autodesk, Google, and Microsoft. idtech.com
LITTLE ENGINEERS With a tech and engineering focus, little (and not so little) engineers have fun while learning new things including Lego, electronic, Minecraft and animation basics. For ages 3-12. little-engineers.com
OES Explore Archimedes’ work with volume, construct a giant math bubble or learn the basics of algorithms. OES Chess, Math and Science camps are designed to engage beginners and advanced students. Campers can choose from math game and construction camps, learn about famous mathematicians or create science concoctions. For kids Kindergarten through 6th Grade. oes.edu
SATURDAY ACADEMY
Young engineers and mathletes will love Saturday Academy’s STEM and TAG camps. Campers can learn and develop skills in computer programming; build Rube Goldberg machines, apply Lego physics, invent an app or spend some time in the chemistry lab. Programs and camps are open to kids grades 2 through 12 and camp instructors are community experts who inspire kids to develop their interests in the STEM fields. Locations vary. See website for details. saturdayacademy.org
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RESOURCE GUIDE:
MORE NERD & EXCURSION CAMPS NERD CAMPS EXCURSION CAMPS CAMP INVENTION Combining STEM concepts and creativity to promote critical thinking and innovation skills. campinvention.org EINSTEIN WISE Chess instruction, including game analysis and live tournaments. einsteinwise.com KID INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Robotics engineering, stop-motion animation, video game creation, & 3D game design. kidinstitute.com MAD SCIENCE Experience science in a variety of ways, like rocket building, chemistry, and crime scene investigation. portland.madscience.org MATH GAMERS Cultivate a love of math through active games and art projects. mathgamers.net MOZEK GAMES Enter the world of coding, programming, gaming, and robotics. mozekgames.com NW FILM CENTER Experiment and learn about media arts and technology while making movies. nwfilm.org/school/info/camp OMSI SUMMER CAMP CLASSES Animation, astronomy, chemistry, dinosaur discovery, LEGOS and more for preK-12th grade. omsi.edu/camps SYLVAN EDGE CAMPS Build LEGO robots, design video games, strengthen math and writing skills. sylvanlearning.com/edge/sylvan-edge-camps
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ADVENTURE WILD Take learning into nature with exploration, inquiry, and discovery. adventurewild.org CAMP WESTWIND Sleepaway camp on the Oregon coast promoting adventure, independence, and self-confidence. westwind.org CASCADE MOUNTAIN SCHOOL Connect with nature with outdoor farm, art, and MacGyver camps. cascademountainschool.org FIRST ASCENT SMITH ROCK CLIMBING CAMP All about outdoor rock climbing and bouldering, for experienced climbers ages 11+. goclimbing.com/KidsPrograms.html HIDDEN VALLEY CAMP Traditional co-ed sleepaway camp, plus overnight hikes and special themed weekend events. hvc-wa.com NEW MEXICO RETREAT FOR MOTHERS & DAUGHTERS An emotionally nurturing experience in beautiful Santa Fe, filled with art projects and bonding rituals. odougherty.karen50@gmail.com NW OUTWARD BOUND Sailing, backpacking, mountaineering, rafting, and more, geared toward kids 12+. nwoutwardbound.org OREGON DUNES TRACKING EXPEDITION Practice wilderness survival and tracking skills, build natural shelters and explore Oregon beaches. wholeearthnatureschool.com
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Best of Portland and beyond OUR TOP PICKS FOR GETTING OUT THIS MONTH
April
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Mar 28 - Apr 26 SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK LIVE!
Have a blast introducing the kids to familiar-to-you tunes from the ‘70s educational show, re-imagined for the stage by the talented folks at Oregon Children’s Theatre. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Tickets $15-28. octc.org/onstage/schoolhouse
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Now - May 3 WOODEN SHOE TULIP FESTIVAL
Nothing quite says spring like 40+ acres of brightly colored tulips. Now through May 3rd, enjoy the perfect backdrop for your spring photos, ride the cow train, hop on a pony (weekends only) and load up on flowers and bulbs at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival in Woodburn. Don't forget your rain gear! $5 per person (ages 13+) or $20 for a carload. woodenshoe.com
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Apr 4 ANNUAL GREAT WESTSIDE EASTER EGG HUNT
The biggest egg hunt on the west side is back. Egg hunts sorted by age for toddlers to 10-year-olds (and a special hunt for Moms), plus pictures with the Easter Bunny, candy, prizes, a fire truck, pony rides, bounce houses, arts and crafts, and so much more springtime fun. $5 per family and free parking. kuik.com/easter-event-2015
April 4 53RD ANNUAL ALPENROSE EASTER EGG HUNT
The hunt is on! Don't miss this annual Portland area tradition as kiddos of all ages hunt for chocolate eggs across the Alpenrose grounds. The world famous Easter Bunny will also be on site to meet all egg hunters! The excitement begins at 10:30 am for ages 3-5 and 12:30 pm for ages 6-8. Arrive early; parking is limited. Free! alpenrose.com
Please confirm calendar events and performances as scheduling changes may occur. 28 | NW Kids Magazine
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April 4 THUNDEREGG STRAVAGANZA
Hunt thundereggs at the Rice Museum! Enjoy over 20,000 rocks and minerals and learn all about thundereggs with a special talk by Museum Curator, Leslie Moclock, at 11am and 1pm. Discover what lies inside your find! $5 admission (children 4 and under are free), 11am-5pm. ricenorthwestmuseum.org/category/news/
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Apr 11 NW KIDS CAMP EXPO 2015
Now in its 4th year! A unique opportunity to learn about over 30 summer camps firsthand through meeting directors and staff, sampling camp games and activities, and of course entering to win prizes including discounts and free weeks of camp. Free admission! nwkidsmagazine.com/summer-camp-expo
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April 14 FREE CONE DAY Peace, love and ice cream! It's free cone day at Ben & Jerry's! benjerry.com/scoop-shops
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April 18 FROZEN FUN WITH THE SNOW QUEEN AND FRIENDS!
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Apr 18 ROSE CITY SING-OFF
It’s like Glee in real life! See the top high school a cappella groups in the Northwest compete for the Champion title and a chance to perform on live television at the Spirit Mountain Casino Grand Floral Parade. Tickets are $10. rosefestival.org/event/rose-city-sing-off
Elsa, Anna and Kristoff will be visiting Child’s Play Toys on Saturday, April 18th from 10am-12pm. Autographs, face painting, balloon animals and more! Come in costume and take a picture with Elsa, Anna or Kristoff! childsplayportland.com Remember to check the NW Kids online calendar for dozens more outings and activities each day. Share with friends, subscribe to the RSS, add directly to your calendar, and more features. There’s something going on you don’t want to miss!! nwkidsmagazine.com/events/month 30 | NW Kids Magazine
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Apr 19 13TH ANNUAL AUTISM WALK
Head down to Oaks Park to support the Autism Society of Oregon. Register to walk for fundraising; stay for the rides, entertainment (rumor has it there will be Stormtroopers!), face painting, and a raffle. Registration $11-14, ride bracelets $13. firstgiving.com/asoautismwalk
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Apr 24-26 ANNUAL ROCK & GEM SHOW
Enter the exciting world of minerals and inspire your little geologist. Learn about the various types of rocks and gems and shop for fossils, beads, jewelry, and more. A free rock will be given to each child! Free admission. mthoodrockclub.wordpress.com/ annual-rock-show
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Apr 25 - May 25 THE LITTLE MERMAID
NW Children’s Theater and A-WOL Dance Collective team up to present a world premiere adaptation of this classic underwater tale. If you’re wondering how they’ll portray a mermaid onstage, there’s only one way to find out. Tickets $17-23. nwcts.org/content/little-mermaid
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Apr 25 BEANSTALK’S 3RD BIRTHDAY
One of our favorite kids’ resale shops turns 3! Shop the sidewalk sale and munch on some yummy and healthy food while the kids get their faces painted. Enter to win a raffle prize. A portion of the sales from the day will benefit Portland Public Schools Clothing Closet and Insights Teen Parent Program. Free to attend. beanstalkchildrensresale.com 32 | NW Kids Magazine
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Mama Fitness 2015
Finding Fitness After Baby Article and photographs by KYLAN PIMLEY
After you have a baby, you’re often tired, scared, happy, confused, deeply in love, and your body is no longer your own. You’re a new mom and nine months of pregnancy couldn’t prepare you for the physical and emotional demands this new role entails. Your body changes significantly during pregnancy and birthing. Secondary aches and pains can result from changes in posture, hormone levels, weight gain or loss, and changes in weight distribution. Getting out the door for some exercise can be easier said than done. With a new baby at home, isolation and exhaustion can be palpable, hindering your ability and motivation to stay active. However, the benefits of prenatal and postpartum exercise are essential for new and expecting moms. It helps ease all of the physical discomforts of pregnancy and labor, combats the baby blues, increases your energy, boosts selfconfidence, fosters good sleep habits and decreases stress among other things. And working out with other moms who are in the same boat can be a lifesaver. Baby Boot Camp may be for you. What is Baby Boot Camp (BBC)? BBC is a community of women of all fitness levels with shared goals of being strong, healthy and good example setters for their children. Moms inspire each other and thrive on the importance of making time for themselves with their kids in tow! Each 60 minute class incorporates cardio, strength training, flexibility and core rehabilitation with additional nutrition and birth recovery support. The main reason people quit exercise programs is boredom. BBC provides diversity while catering the workouts to be effective and safely designed for the new mom stage of life. Through empowerment, confidence and strength building moms can reclaim their bodies. How can you reach your health and fitness goals as a new mom? Start with a list of 3 SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Timely. Next you need to choose how to get it done. BBC suggests using the buddy system! Grab a friend and set your goals together. With the 34 | NW Kids Magazine
help of your BBC instructor team, you don’t have to work on this alone! What makes BBC different from other exercise programs? A mighty team of moms. At Baby Boot Camp, all franchise owners and instructors are nationally certified fitness professionals and new moms! Every instructor holds certifications in prenatal and postpartum exercises and they focus on continuing education in nutrition, birth recovery (c section, pubic synthesis, pelvic floor recovery, diastasis recti and core rehabilitation) and injury prevention. • Affordable. BBC is cost-effective by incorporating a gym membership fee, personal trainer and childcare into one. • Personalized Workouts. BBC provides oneon-one attention to each mom and caters to moms of all fitness levels: from pregnant, newly postpartum, and conditioned…and everyone in between. continued on p. 36
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How do you prepare for your first BBC Class? Your first class is FREE and there are several locations around the Portland area. • Timing is everything ss Ensure your baby has a clean diaper, appropriate clothing, has been fed, and burped. • Pack the night before ss Don’t wait until your baby is happy to start the packing process. Getting out of the house can take longer than expected. Pack the essentials in your diaper bag the night before: diaper, clothing change, jacket or blanket, pacifier (if using), burp cloth, wipes, lovey, and bottle (if applicable.)
• Embrace the gear ss There are times when your baby will want to be held even after all of his/her needs are met. Bring a secure baby carrier in your stroller. When your child needs to be held, secure him/her in the carrier and resume your workout. You can power walk, lunge, squat, and do most of the activities you would normally engage. Your instructor will help you modify the workout so it is low impact while your child is secure. Just think, you are burning 20% more calories by carrying your baby and pushing a stroller. If you have any questions about Baby Boot Camp and to find a location or request a free class, visit babybootcamp.com, or email kylan.pimley@babybootcamp.com.
• Set your clothes out ss Getting out the door can be a time consuming event for a new mom. Set your clothes out so that you can be efficient with your time. Plus, seeing your clothes out helps make you accountable. You will be less likely to skip your workout. • Grab a buddy ss Connecting socially is very important for new moms. You have just undergone a life changing event. Working out with a friend is a great way to stay accountable while providing a great support system.
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Kylan Pimley has been a Baby Boot Camp franchise owner for the last 5 years. She fell in love with the program after her daughter was born. Kylan is an ACE Certified Group Fitness Instructor and studies Nutrition, Birth Recovery, Prenatal and Postpartum Exercise.
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Hape Quadrilla Marble Run at Bella Stella, $75 bellastellababy.com Goldie Blox Builder's Survival Kit at Thinker Toys, $59 thinkertoysoregon.com
FOUND
around Town
Magformers Magnetic Rainbow 30-Piece Set at OMSI, $55 omsi.edu
Walking Robot by Artec Educational at The Learning Palace, $15 learningpalace.com
Uncle Goose Hand-Crafted Elemental Blocks at Black Wagon, $38 blackwagon.com
Robot Turtles by ThinkFun at Child’s Play, $25 childsplay.com
My First Science Kit at Coffee Kids, $23 coffeekidspdx.com
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