L I V E • PLAY • DO
magazine
SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE | FRIENDSHIP HELLO! GOOD MORNING! | COMPARING EDUCATIONAL MODELS
nwkidsmagazine.com
Feb
2016
2 | NW Kids Magazine
NW Kids Magazine | 3
EDITORS’
Corner
It’s hard to imagine that six years ago our girls, (yes, that’s them on the right and on the cover), were still in baby carriers. Their ride of choice at the time was a BOB stroller outfitted with snacks, water bottles, books and toys. We walked every square inch of Portland then, stopping in at kid cafes, shops and libraries while our tots slept or played. We were sleepless, frazzled, but excited as we explored the city in search of the best of everything for Portland families. We took what we learned to the pages of NW Kids and have loved every minute of it. Now, it’s time for us to go, but not before we leave you with one more issue! This month we look at Montessori and Waldorf education. If you’ve ever wondered how they differ you can head to p. 14 to get a snapshot of each. We’ll continue with a series in 2016 about different educational models. If you’re curious about what schools are out there and are scheduling open houses, check out our Open House Guide on p. 16. There are endless options in the Portland area for schooling, and this is a great place to see them all in one easy guide. On p. 8, we’ve included a cute piece on our new favorite retail shop in NE, Hello! Good Morning! If you haven’t been, seriously go. It’s adorable! And don’t miss Laura Jost’s insightful article on friendship on p. 30. There’s no way to sum up all that has happened during our time with this sweet magazine. We’re indebted to those we’ve worked with, the gals at NW Kids, contributors, sponsors and photographers who’ve helped us bring our vision to life and put each issue together. And to you, our readers, who we’ve thought about every step of the way, thank you for reading! Our girls need less of our time now, in elementary school, BOB strollers retired. We’re headed in a new direction, Portland Real Estate, but we’ll always remember our time with NW Kids fondly (mush mush). Stop by our new magazine All Things Real Estate to see what we’re up to. We leave NW Kids in incredibly competent hands. Karel Chan knows Portland and has been with the magazine for more years than we can count. She’s worn many hats and will now step into her new role as Editor. Stay tuned for more great resources and family fun. Kelley & Beth
Cover and contents photography by AMY CLOSE amyclose.com
4 | NW Kids Magazine
Contents FEBRUARY 2016
8 Hello! Good Morning! 10 The Surprise of Books: An Interview with Charise Harper 14 Montessori v. Waldorf Education: What’s the Difference?
26 Best of Portland and Beyond: Our Top Picks for Getting Out This Month 30 Hand in Hand: Walking with Your Kids Through Friendship
16 School Open House Guide
NW Kids Magazine | 5
Listings All Families Surrogacy...............................................11 Art of STEM................................................................27 Barre3...........................................................................2 Bella Stella...................................................................7 Bennett Suzuki...........................................................12 Bridges Middle School...............................................21 Canoe Island French Camp........................................11 Catlin Gabel................................................................32 Cedarwood School.....................................................27 Childswork Learning Center.......................................27 Coffee Kids...................................................................7 Cornerstone Montessori.............................................12 Eco Maids...................................................................11 Engineering for Kids..................................................21 German International School....................................31 Glendoveer Tennis......................................................11 Global Friends Language School...............................27 Goodtime Chinese School.........................................21 Hope Chinese Immersion Charter School.................28 International School..................................................21 Just Between Friends...................................................7 KUIK............................................................................11 Little Fruit Farm..........................................................27 Master Yoo’s World Champion Tae Kwon Do.............28 New Day School.........................................................23 Northwest Chinese Academy....................................23 Odyssey School..........................................................29 Oregon Children’s Theatre............................................2 Oregon College of Art and Craft................................23 Oregon Virtual Academy............................................12 Portland Children’s Museum.....................................15 Portland Early Learning.............................................12 Portland Montessori..................................................29 Portland Trampoline....................................................2 Saturday Academy.....................................................29 Scuola Italiana...........................................................28 Sit Still........................................................................29 Smockville Montessori...............................................23 Spielwerk Toys..............................................................7 Summa Academy......................................................15 Sunshine Montessori.................................................25 Sunstone Montessori.................................................25 Swallowtail School....................................................13 The Kids’ Backyard Store..............................................2 ThriftMouse Sale..........................................................9 Trinity Lutheran..........................................................13 Trillium Preschool......................................................28 Tucker Maxon.............................................................25 Urban Farm Store.......................................................28 West Hills Montessori................................................25 Westside Montessori.................................................15 World of Smiles..........................................................29 Zenana Spa..................................................................9 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 Advertising Director Laurel Carrasco laurel@nwkidsmagazine.com Client Services Coordinator/ Client Ad Design Karel Chan karel@nwkidsmagazine.com Graphic Designer 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
NW Kids Magazine | 7
Hello! Good Morning! by KELLEY GARDINER
Somehow, it took me five minutes to notice the blue whale hanging from the ceiling. Between the colorful paper pendants hanging in the window, and the sweet and uncluttered store space, my eyes were captivated from the moment I stepped into Hello! Good Morning!, a small but bright storefront on Northeast Broadway. But after I’d had a few minutes to take everything in, my eyes drifted up to find a papier-mâché whale suspended from the ceiling, strung playfully with a garland of white and yellow paper flowers. “I like to find things that make me smile,” says owner Amy Wulfing, and she hopes that people who walk into the front door of this new shop, opened in November 2015, will find something to smile about, too. For many, it’s the bright colors and design. For others, it’s the vintage and hard-to-find goods that evoke nostalgic feelings of their own childhood as they’re shopping for their own little ones. First of all, Hello, Good Morning! is not exactly a toy store, though that might be the closest description. There are toys here, carefully curated toys, both vintage and new, that kids will love. And there’s art and games, and other things that kids will clamor for, like bright and colorful backpacks. It’s more of a celebration of toys, gifts, home, art, and design, in the form of a retail store. 8 | NW Kids Magazine
You could use those Moroccan wool throw rugs in a children’s room, but you’ll be just as happy to see them there, and they’ll last for years to come, even with hard use. You’ll find high-quality and gorgeously designed Miller Goodman Playshapes, bright and colorful ‘70s style Penny skateboards, Minas woolen slippers from Greece (a popular item, in sizes from newborn to adult men), vintage Japanese Ultraman Monsters, masks from India, and baskets from Senegal. And it all works in the sweetly arranged store, small though it might be. Owner Amy lives in the neighborhood, so opening the store on NE Broadway was a dream come true. Trading in a long commute for a quick walk leaves her more time to explore her passions, look for fun items to offer in the store, and the opportunity to help neighbors find fun and lasting toys gifts and art supplies. Not to mention collaborate on art projects, like that whale hanging from the ceiling. She finds a lot of inspiration in the world around her, and wants to share that inspiration through her store. It shows. Need a gift? You should be able to find something for newborns, kids of any ages, and even grandma. Everything here might appeal to a child, due to the bright colors and fun or simple styling, but it’s not the typical “kid stuff ” that’s built to break. Instead, it’s all
chosen to appeal to parents as well as children, to grow with your child, and to be something that you want to keep for a long time. While you’re here, pick up a sheet of wrapping paper, and a unique card as well. Don’t miss the books in the back corner, chosen for their striking illustrations. Plenty of children’s books are beautiful, but this collection is chosen for the artistic value. Ask for a suggestion, and you’ll get a tour of eye-catching colors and probably discover something new. Recently, there was a kids’ yoga class in the space. An hour before the store opened on a Sunday morning, they cleared out the tables in the middle of the room, and kids got their yoga poses going. The store plans to have more workshops and classes, too, for a spectrum of people in the community. There’s a pom pom art workshop coming up, and bigger
ideas are afoot. Dance parties, anyone? For more information, sign up for the email list in the store. Follow along on Instagram @ hellogoodmorningkids for a regular dose of joy, and an idea of what you might find when you stop into the store. Hello! Good Morning! speaks for itself as a bright and cheery addition to the Irvington neighborhood, and to Portland’s retail scene in general. Stop by and say hi, and don’t forget to look up. HELLO! GOOD MORNING! 2419 NE Broadway (503) 841-5120
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
NW Kids Magazine | 9
The Surprise of Books:
An Interview with Charise Harper by ROBIN ANDERSON
Charise Harper is a prolific author-illustrator now living in Portland, Oregon. Her latest picture book, “A Big Surprise for Little Card,” shares what unfolds when an enthusiastic card winds up in a library. What was the inspiration for your new book? I’m a big believer in celebrations, and birthdays are up there at the top. I’m also a fan of libraries. My first job was in a library, shelving books in the fine art section of Canada’s Vancouver Public Library. I sometimes looked through the books before shelving them. It was a great introduction to the world of art. These passions were spinning around in my head and then one day they collided, and “Little Card” was born. A library card who thinks he’s a birthday card. It’s obvious, right?
What are your favorite things about writing picture books? What do you like most about writing middle readers? While picture books seem like they might be easier because they have less words, they are almost more difficult. I’m a wordy writer and I like tangents, so keeping things simple can be challenging. My favorite thing about picture books is the pictures, they make the words come alive. Anna Raff illustrated “A Big Surprise for Little Card,” and her joyful images make the story shine. Although I illustrate some of my books, I love seeing what others can do with my words. Middle readers are fun to write because I get to spend more time with my characters. They can be more complicated and quirky, and I can add fun side characters to the mix. What led you to drawing? I’ve always liked art. I’m sure I would have loved art school, but my parents convinced me to go to business school and get a marketing degree. I didn’t do anything with that degree; instead I sold and painted t-shirts at art fairs. After doing that for a year, I found comics, and I was hooked. For six years, I wrote and drew a weekly comic strip called “Eye-Spy.” That was great training for a career as a children’s author. I still have them hundreds of them! continued on p. 12
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NW Kids Magazine | 11
What projects are you working on next? I just finished a new chapter book called “Mae and June and the Wonder Wheel.” That comes out next year, as well as a new graphic novel series with First Second. I’m not allowed to say anything about the graphic novel until they announce it, but here’s a hint: it’s very crafty. I have a few other things, too. I like to keep busy! Charise will be doing a release party story time event for her brand new book, “A Big Surprise for Little Card,” at Green Bean Books on Sunday, February 28th at 11am. How has family influenced your work? Having children has been a huge influence on my writing. My daughter Ivy was the inspiration for my first chapter book series, “Just Grace.” I used to jokingly call her my empathy girl because she was so sensitive to those around her. That’s how I came up with Grace’s super power: empathy. My son Luther was the inspiration for the “Bean Dog and Nugget” books. I love listening to and watching my kids; they inspire me daily. Oh, my dog wants me to say she influences me too. It’s true. I based Mr. Scruffers in the “Just Grace” books on my dog Pepper. Welcome to Portland! What charms you about the region? I grew up about 6 hours north of Portland in Vancouver, BC, so this climate is not entirely new to me. In fact, being here feels like home. I love the trees, the moss and the crows. I didn’t know it before, but I missed the crows. I think I’m going to be very happy here. Which children’s books inspire you? I love graphic novels. They inspire me. All those pages of art and words, how can you not be inspired? There are so many talented people making work right now, it’s a little intimidating. I feel lucky to have this job, writing stories and drawing pictures, the same two things I loved to do when I was a child. In the picture book world right now, I like Amy Krouse Rosenthal, Bob Shea, Laurie Keller and about a hundred others. 12 | NW Kids Magazine
Robin Anderson loves sharing books with readers of all ages at Green Bean Books and Powell’s Books. Originally from outside of Buffalo, NY, she is proud to call Portland home. greenbeanbookspdx.com
NW Kids Magazine | 13
MONTESSORI V. WALDORF EDUCATION:
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
has been licensed and certified by both the Oregon Department of Education and listed with the North American Montessori Teachers’ Association.
SWALLOWTAIL WALDORF SCHOOL AND FARM
Whole Child, Waldorf, Montessori, NeoHumanist, Reggio Emilia? If you’re just beginning the school search for your child, you may be wondering how the varying educational models differ. Starting with preschools, many models are part of a larger philosophy that go beyond the preschool years into elementary, and in some cases high school education. The options and definitions may seem overwhelming, but research and going to open houses will pay off, and can answer all of your questions. Your choices are highly individual based on what’s important to you and the needs of your child, but defining what you’re seeking ahead of time is crucial. In an ongoing series, we’ll define some differences between models for you. This month we’re looking at Montessori and Waldorf education. There is much more to learn about each model, but here’s a start. A model based on the teachings of Maria Montessori, today’s Montessori schools emphasize the importance of independence in “prepared environments.” Student choice from structured options, uninterrupted work time, and a constructivist approach where children learn concepts through discovery rather than direct instruction are also part of the curriculum. Montessori stimulates curiosity and teachers are there to guide children in their own time according to their own interests and development. There are many Montessori based schools that aren’t accredited, so while looking it’s a good idea to check that the school you’re interested in 14 | NW Kids Magazine
Waldorf schools are rooted in Rudolf Steiner’s educational philosophy, Waldorf education encourages independent judgment, moral discernment and creative thinking. Brenda McCoy, Enrollment and Outreach Coordinator of Swallowtail Waldorf school and Farm explains, “Waldorf schools are often chosen by parents that assign an intrinsic value to childhood; they are looking to give their children the space to develop at their own pace, and enjoy every moment of their childhood.” Waldorf teachers educate holistically through daily rhythms and activities that inspire wonder through the senses and include handwork, baking, building, and outdoor play. Waldorf nurtures and nourishes each student and centers around practical, imaginative, intellectual and artistic development. Waldorf schools thrive in community support and build strong bonds between students, faculty and families. Traditions are important, as are relationships between younger and elder students. Whether you’re looking for a preschool that will lead you to Waldorf elementary or are simply looking for a program grounded in Waldorf philosophy, it’s a good idea be to check teacher certifications. Some schools are Waldorf inspired and borrow some but not all Waldorf principles. So how to choose? As mentioned previously, your choice is truly dependent on the needs of your child, family fit and your overall big picture education plan. Some families feel that preschool education should be the foundation for academic learning while others believe that play is most important to a well-rounded childhood. Montessori and Waldorf education vary greatly, but share common goals that instill a love for learning and prepare children for the future.
NW Kids Magazine | 15
SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE BAMBOO CHINESE SCHOOL
BRIDGES MIDDLE SCHOOL
CATLIN GABEL
CEDARWOOD WALDORF SCHOOL
ADDRESS
14695 NW West Union Road, Portland
716 NE Marine Drive, Portland
8825 SW Barnes Road, Portland
3030 SW 2nd Avenue, Portland
PHONE
(503) 330.8781
(503) 688.2922
(503) 297.1894
(503) 245.1477
WEBSITE
bamboochinese school.com
bridgesms.org
catlin.edu
cedarwoodschool. org
DESCRIPTION
Mandarin (Chinese) Immersion program. Kids learn a second language through having fun.
Bridges Middle School is an independent school serving 5th-8th grade students with learning differences.
Catlin Gabel supports inspired learning leading to responsible action through dedicated teaching, caring relationships, a challenging curriculum, and community service.
Cedarwood School brings Waldorf education to life and strives to instill a love for learning. The curriculum weaves together the arts, academics and movement.
OPEN HOUSE
Saturdays 10am-12pm
Private Admissions Tours throughout the year.
Campus tours are available September through early February and you can schedule one online.
March 5 10am-1pm
GRADE RANGE/ AGE RANGE
0-13-years-old
5th-8th grade
PreK-12th grade
PreK -8th grade
MAX ENROLLMENT
See website
N/A
756
320
STUDENT 5:1 TEACHER RATIO
10:1
7:1
15:1
BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
TUITION RANGE
See website
$22,000 annually
$22,000-$29,640 annually
$6,500-$12,500 annually
FINANCIAL AID
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
TEACHING METHOD
Language Immersion
Individualized Instruction
Experiential
Waldorf
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SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE CHILDSWORK LEARNING CENTER 4235 SE Salmon Street, Portland
CORNERSTONE MONTESSORI CHILDREN’S HOUSE
GERMAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
31700 NW 3900 SW Murray Commercial Street, Boulevard, #580, North Plains Beaverton
GLOBAL FRIENDS LANGUAGE SCHOOL
GOODTIME CHINESE SCHOOL
4505 NE 82nd Avenue, Portland
15285 NW Central Drive, Portland
(503) 234.3611
(503) 647-7402
(503) 626.9089
(971) 506.3261
(503) 277.3899
childswork.org
montessori cornerstone.com
gspdx.org
globalfriendslang uageschool.com
goodtimechinese school.org
At Childswork we respect children’s natural capabilities and share our passion, empathy and enthusiasm in a reflective and collaborative way.
Christian Montessori preschool developing self-esteem, independence, and love of learning within the Hillsboro School District.
A collaborative community with a studentcentered learning environment that encourages growth into bilingual world citizens.
GFLS is a cozy home-based preschool offering a bilingual Chinese/English program and a multicultural curriculum.
Summer Camp: Immersion Mandarin lessons, fun games and field trips.
We offer tours every month. Please call to reserve your spot on a tour.
Call for a tour!
See website
Feb 20, 10am12pm, Feb 25, 6pm-8pm, March 6, 1pm-3 pm, March 12, 2pm-4 pm or by appointment.
March 12, 1pm-2:30pm
Preschool and Kindergarten
2 1/2-years-oldKindergarten
Preschool 5th grade
2 1/2-5-years-old
K-6th grade
See website
16
200
15
60
Average 8:1 depending on age
8:1
9:1
6:1
10:1
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
See website
$290-$330 monthly
$10,774-$13,956 annually
$450 (part time)$795 (full time)
$220 weekly, $850 monthly
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
Experiential, Play-based, Reggio Emilia, Whole Child, Constructivist
Montessori
Language Immersion, Playbased, Whole Child, International Baccalaureate
Language immersion, Playbased, Whole Child
Language Immersion, Play-based
NW Kids Magazine | 17
SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE NEW DAY ANANDA MARGA SCHOOL OF PORTLAND
HOPE CHINESE CHARTER SCHOOL
THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
ADDRESS
9100 SW Wilshire Street, Portland
025 SW Sherman Street, Portland
16445 SW Melinda Street, Beaverton
1825 SE Clinton Street, Portland
PHONE
(971) 226.7500
(503) 226.2496
(503) 521.8603
(503) 231.7425
WEBSITE
hopeccs.org
intlschool.org
littlefruitfarm montessori.com
newdayschool.org
DESCRIPTION
Educating for Global Fluency: Mandarin Immersion elementary school.
At The International School, children acquire language and culture as they learn to pursue knowledge beyond the classroom and throughout life.
Quality home preschool, experienced devoted A.M.I. teacher, low student ratio, safe wholesome learning environment, indoor/outdoor activities, ages 2-6.
New Day School’s mission is to create a Neo-Humanist learning environment and curriculum which provides for the education of body, mind, and spirit.
OPEN HOUSE
February 3, 17 March 2, April 6, May 4, 9am
February 25, 6-8pm
Tours on first Fridays every month
February 20
GRADE RANGE/ AGE RANGE
PreK-5th grade (growing to 8th)
3-years-old5th grade
2-10-years-old
2.5 to 5-years-old
MAX ENROLLMENT
See website
500
16
63
STUDENT See website TEACHER RATIO
11:1
8:1
8:1
BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
TUITION RANGE
See website
$9,510-$15,920 annually
$425-$1000 monthly
$1,076 (subject to change Fall 2016)
FINANCIAL AID
See website
Yes
No
Yes
TEACHING METHOD
Language Immersion
Language Immersion, International Baccalaureate PYP (Inquiry-based)
Montessori
Neo-Humanist Education
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LITTLE FRUIT FARM MONTESSORI
SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE NORTHWEST CHINESE ACADEMY
ODYSSEY PROGRAM
OREGON VIRTUAL ACADEMY
PORTLAND EARLY LEARNING PROJECT
THE PORTLAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL
8565 SW BeavertonHillsdale Highway, Beaverton
5037 SW Iowa Street, Portland
Accessible Anywhere in Oregon
Multiple Locations
205 NE 50th Avenue, Portland
(503) 546.3455
(503) 916.6300
(541) 751.8060
(503) 284.0610
(503) 688.2992
nwchinese academy.org
odysseyprogram. org
orva.k12.com
portlandearly learning.com
portland montessori.org
NWCA provides an outstanding educational foundation in the true immersion of Mandarin language and culture.
PPS Focus Option K-8 History ThemeBased Program
Oregon Virtual Academy is an online public charter school providing individualized learning.
We teach parentchild, preschool, and elementary Spanish classes plus offer Spanish Story Times around town!
We currently serve approximately 170 students; ages 2 1/2 through 12. We are AMI certified.
February 20, 10am-12pm, March 5, 10am-12pm
Feb 24, 6pm7:30pm, Feb 25, 6pm-7:30pm, March 16, 6pm7:30pm
Online InformaSee website tion Sessions held weekly, check orva.k.12. com for schedule
See website
Preschool -8th grade
K-8th grade
Pre-K-12th Grade
18-months-old5th grade
2.5-12-years-old
150
Please see website
N/A
12
180
7:1
Please see website
12:1
10:1
Yes
No
No
No
Yes
$6,570-$15,340 annually
None
Free
$14-$16 per class
Varies
Yes
No
No
Yes
Yes
Language Immersion
Thematic Learning, Multi-Age Classrooms, Team Teaching, Differentiated Instruction; Field Studies Enrichment
Virtual Core Curriculum
Language immersion, Playbased
Montessori
NW Kids Magazine | 19
SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE SATURDAY ACADEMY
SCUOLA ITALIANA DI PORTLAND
SMOCKVILLE MONTESSORI
SUMMA ACADEMY
ADDRESS
Multiple locations
PO Box 6507, Portland
22444 SW Oak Street, Sherwood
2510 SW 1st Avenue, Portland
PHONE
(503) 200.5858
(971) 270.0470
(503) 625.1610
(503) 287.1785
WEBSITE
saturdayacademy. org
scuola.us
smockville.org
summaacademy. org
DESCRIPTION
Follow your curiosity in science, technology, engineering, arts and math.
To promote Italian language and culture to children and adults in a student-centered environment.
Smockville Montessori is a nonprofit preschool and kindergarten located in beautiful Old Town Sherwood.
Our mission is to nurture children’s natural love of learning and to cultivate academic excellence and Emotional Intelligence by building confidence, creativity, compassion and inquisitive minds.
OPEN HOUSE
See website for more information.
Email info@ scuola.us to arrange a classroom visit.
March 7-11
Call to schedule a tour
GRADE RANGE/ AGE RANGE
Grades 2-12
18 months to adult
3-years-old Kindergarten
K-8th grade/ 5-14-years old
MAX ENROLLMENT
Varies by class.
12 per class
35
130
STUDENT See website. TEACHER RATIO
5:1 Preschool; 6:1 Children’s classes
10:1
11:1
BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
TUITION RANGE
$79-$589 depending on class hours
$10 hourly preschool; $13 hourly other language classes
See website.
$9,175-$13,250 annually
FINANCIAL AID
Yes
No
No
Yes
TEACHING METHOD
Experiential
Language immersion, Playbased, Reggio Emilia
Montessori
Experiential, Play-based, Whole Child, Natural Learning Relationships
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NW Kids Magazine | 21
SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE SUNSHINE MONTESSORI SCHOOL
SUNSTONE MONTESSORI SCHOOL
SWALLOWTAIL WALDORF SCHOOL AND FARM
TRINITY LUTHERAN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
ADDRESS
4845 SW Murray Road, Beaverton
6318 SW Corbett Avenue, Portland
332 NE 6th Avenue, Hillsboro
5520 NE Killingsworth Street, Portland
PHONE
(503) 644.1466
(503) 768.3847
(503) 846.0336
(503) 288.6403
WEBSITE
sunshinemontessori.com
sunstone montessori.org
swallowtailschool. org
trinityportland.org
DESCRIPTION
Well-established preschool, with extended care serving the community since 1995.
We are a community of curious, independent, and compassionate learners.
Educating the whole child; head, heart and hands.
Empowered by Christ’s love, Trinity students engage in academic rigor to be life-long learners and serve others.
OPEN HOUSE
See website.
Please contact us for a visit.
February 27, 10am-2pm
February 25, 6:30pm, April 28, 6:30pm
GRADE RANGE/ AGE RANGE
2-years-old Kindergarten
16-months-old6th grade
PreK-8th grade
Preschool 3-8th grade
MAX ENROLLMENT
120
200
225
245
STUDENT 10:1 Preschool, TEACHER RATIO 5:1 Toddler
16-36 mo: 4:1, 3-6 years: 10:1, 6-12 years: 15:1
15:1
13:1
BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
TUITION RANGE
$850-$1025 monthly
$9,000-$20,000 annually
$7,000-$10,100 annually
$2,500-$7,000 annually
FINANCIAL AID
No
Yes
yes
Yes
TEACHING METHOD
Montessori
Montessori
Experiential, Whole child, Waldorf
Traditional
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NW Kids Magazine | 23
SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE TUCKERMAXON SCHOOL
TRILLIUM PRESCHOOL
WEST HILLS MONTESSORI
WESTSIDE MONTESSORI INTERNATIONAL
ADDRESS
5420 N Interstate Avenue, Portland
2860 SE Holgate Boulevard, Portland
Multiple Locations 1870 NW 188th Avenue, Beaverton
PHONE
(503) 285.3833
(503) 235.6551
(503) 246.5495
(503) 739.3949
WEBSITE
trilliumcharter school.org
tuckermaxon.org
westhillsmontessori.com
wmioregon.com
DESCRIPTION
See our webpage for a complete explanation of our philosophy.
Tucker Maxon School teaches deaf and hearing children to listen, talk, learn, and achieve excellence together.
Meeting the social, emotional and intellectual needs of children through joyful exploration and hands-on learning.
WMI upholds strong education for children based on strong faith & educational foundation, parent partnership, & community involvement.
OPEN HOUSE
February 18, 6pm-7:30 pm
February 24, March 6, March 30, April 27, 11am-1pm 4pm-5:30pm (SW Campus) and March 13, 11am-1pm (Lake Oswego Campus)
GRADE RANGE/ AGE RANGE
3-5years-old
Preschool 35th grade
Toddler, Preschool, 2.5-6-years-old Elementary
MAX ENROLLMENT
See website
130
Toddler: 12, Prima- 48 ry: 25, Elem: 25
STUDENT 8:1 TEACHER RATIO
8:1
Toddler 4:1, Primary/ Elementary 12:1
10:1
BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
TUITION RANGE
$525-760 monthly
$5,400-$17,000 annually
$745-$1265 monthly
$620-$1,040 monthly
FINANCIAL AID
No
Yes
No
Yes
TEACHING METHOD
Experiential, Play-based, Whole child, constructivist and democratic
Whole Child, Emotional Intelligence
Montessori
Experiential, Language Immersion, Montessori, Christian School
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February 27 (By Appointment only)
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Best of Portland and beyond OUR TOP PICKS FOR GETTING OUT THIS MONTH
FEBRUARY FEB
2
THE MANTIS AND THE MOON Mantis the praying mantis attempts to capture and ride the moon in this engaging puppet performance. Laugh and sing along! Free, tojt.org
WINTER LIGHT FESTIVAL
FEB
3-6
Brand new event! The Willamette banks surrounding OMSI are lit up during this 4-day celebration of light, color, and the quiet beauty of winter. Art installations, animated projections, lighted bike rides and puppet shows, and performances will delight all ages; escape the night chill at OMSI’s Theory restaurant. Free admission, pdxwlf.com
CHINESE NEW YEAR CULTURAL FAIR
FEB
6
Celebrate the Year of the Monkey with Portland’s Chinese community! Enjoy folk dances and martial arts demos, traditional Lion Dance performances throughout the day, get your name written in Chinese calligraphy, and eat delicious dim sum and other treats. $8/person, kids 3 and under free. Visit the website for a $2 off coupon! pdxnyf.com
CHINESE NEW YEAR AT LAN SU
FEB
822
Lan Su’s annual Chinese New Year festival kicks off with “Rolling in the Wealth,” a custom of rolling oranges and gold coins through the front gates. In the weeks following, participate in themed crafts and activities, play Chinese games, learn how to Lion Dance and watch martial arts performances. Don’t miss the special Lantern Viewing (Feb 19-22). $7-28, kids 5 and under free. lansugarden.org
MYSTERY MINERAL DAY
FEB
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Got some special rocks? Or does your little one have a bunch of rocks that you’re not quite sure are so special…? Bring the haul to the Rice Museum and rocks and minerals experts will identify any hidden gems while teaching them all about geology. $6-8, ricenorthwestmuseum.org
Please confirm calendar events and performances as scheduling changes may occur.
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CASCADE FESTIVAL OF AFRICAN FILMS - FAMILY FEST MATINEE
FEB
27
FEB
2728
A family-friendly screening of French and West African animated film Kirikou and the Men and Women, a collection of five stories about courage, heroism and the supernatural. Plus storytelling and a raffle! Film is in French with English subtitles. Free, africanfilmfestival.org
BRICKS CASCADE LEGO EXPOSITION Bring your mini-architects and junior engineers to this inspiring expo of creative construction! They can marvel at all the plastic-brick structures, then purchase Lego Minifigs, custom pieces and vintage Lego sets. $9/person, $30/family of four, brickscascade.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
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Hand in Hand:
Walking with Your Kids Through Friendship Article and Photographs by LAURA JOST
When I was a new mom, meeting other new parents at playgroups, kiddy classes, and the like, I was seeking others who were new to the trenches. I needed people who I could talk with about this experience that was literally rocking my world from the inside out. There was something desperate and transparent in the sleepless nights and the spit-up stained shirts that made connecting easier than ever. Some of the women I met during this time became my nearest and dearest. I have held their child’s vomit in my hands. They have worn the blood of my child’s mouth injury on their shirts. Together we have seen some things; the bonds are still undeniable. What I didn’t realize at the time is how my new relationships would affect my children’s foray into friendships. As mama connections blossomed, we spent more time together; it was super easy when littles were simply eating and sleeping. When they morphed into opinionated babies and toddlers, it started to get more complicated. Sometimes the kids got along great and sometimes everyone wanted the singing Elmo phone and no one was happy. I was naively operating under the assumption that parent bonds would transfer seamlessly to our children. And we would all live and BBQ happily ever after. But that just wasn’t typically how it worked. Our kids were developing their own personalities, communication styles, and preferences. 30 | NW Kids Magazine
I think one of the biggest mistakes that I made was to follow the convention of referring to all other children as “friends.” It seems we do so for lack of a better word, but if I asked anyone to define a healthy friendship, it’s unlikely the qualities listed would be someone who rarely shares, hits when they are frustrated, and eats your snacks. Discourses aside, the truth is that there are many people in our lives that we spend time with and care about that we would not call friends; they are neighbors, schoolmates, co-workers, and associates. These lovely folks certainly deserve our respect and kindness, but friends are people that we seek out because of a special connection. Reserving the word friend didn’t initially come naturally, but it has helped my kids better define relationships in the grade school years. So, in the gray area between toddler playgroups and legit grade-school connections, how do we help our kids find their friend bliss? In the near nine years I’ve been navigating these waters, my whole family has learned some things. I sat down with my kids to discuss what was most helpful and we came up with this list: • T alk regularly (and early) with your child about the qualities that make a good friend. Also discuss how one can be kind or respectful (or whatever word makes sense to your family) and the difference between that and friendship. Debriefing after play keeps ideals fresh.
• U nderstand that not only might your children make friends differently than you, they might also value different qualities (and quantities) in their friendships. • P laydate young to work on friend skills. But pay attention to when the switch happens and… • D on’t force friendships. It’s either there or it’s not. It’s okay if you and your best friend’s kids don’t mesh well. • F riendships grow and change and evolve. Encourage your children that people make mistakes and relationships aren’t always going to work out (and it’s not always somebody’s fault). • T each compromise and forgiveness without making your kid a pushover and identify red flags so your sweetie doesn’t become a tyrant. Don’t be afraid to have conversations that include affected children and parents. Not only will this help everyone learn and grow, but it will nip any perceived indifference in
the bud. There is no shame in openly learning how to communicate, share, or empathize. • D on’t be afraid to pull the plug. Your child may express a preference for a child that is not a healthy relationship for them and you simply have to step in. • Y our child does not need a busier social calendar than you. Prioritize get-togethers and remember that school friends see each other every day. We all want our children surrounded by wonderful people. Helping them how to find their wonderful early can only benefit those relationships down the road. And by THOSE relationships, I mean the big ones that require an understanding and confident parent to help you mend a broken heart, ice cream optional. Laura Jost is really, really, REALLY not looking forward to having teenagers. It was hard enough to experience first-hand and her spidey-senses say she’s going to get a run for her money.
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