nwkidsmagazine.com | january 2012
Music Schools | NW Kindie Record Reviews An Interview With Mo Phillips | Open House Guide
2 | NW Kids Magazine
NW Kids Magazine | 3
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 Advertising Inquiries: 503-282-2711, ext. 1 sales@nwkidsmagazine.com Design Robyn Barbon robyn@nwkidsmagazine.com Accounting & Business Services Heather Rex heather@nwkidsmagazine.com Staff Photographer Emma Easley Darden emma@rlportraits.com
ON THE COVER and above: Photos courtesy of She Saw Things: photography by Jen Downer. She Saw Things celebrates the person | the family | the moment with authentic, timeless lifestyle portraiture. See more of Jen’s work at shesawthings.com Correction: In our holiday gift guide last month we neglected to list Naturally Playful’s website, naturallyplayful.net. 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.
4 | NW Kids Magazine
Connect With Us: • Phone: 503.282.2711 • email: contact@nwkidsmagazine.com • Facebook: facebook.com/nwkids • Twitter: @nwkids
contents
INSIDE: 8 Northwest Kindie Record Reviews
music
24 Making Musicians: Portland Music Schools 26 Dad Rock? Nope, A Dad Who Rocks
goods
20 Found Around Town: Join The Band
schools
10 Open House Guide
outings
28 Calendar of Events
20
22 Finding A Whole-Family Fit
nwkidsmagazine.com Music Lessons: How Hard Do I Push? By Sound Roots
online this month
Green Bean Books: Best Books to Snuggle Up with on a Cold Winter Night Childcare or Preschool? Oregon’s Initiative to Improve Early Childhood Programs Mr. Ben’s American Made Ukes Music Around Town: A Resource Guide Tips For Parents on Preschool Options
24
26
listings A Mother’s Love............................................33 Ainsworth School.........................................23 All Saints School...........................................11 Amanda Arp..................................................35 Aprende con Amigos....................................11 Barre3..............................................................2 Bennett Suzuki Violin Studio........................29 Bodhi Tree Center..........................................19 Burlingame Preschool...................................23 Child’s View Montessori................................21 Clever Cycle.....................................................2 Earthquake Tech..............................................7 EcoMaids.........................................................7 Escuela Viva...................................................21 Foster Burger.................................................35 French American International School.........21 Fun Party Co..................................................35 German American School.............................21 Growing Seeds..............................................11 Hi 5 Dental......................................................7 Hope Chinese Charter School.......................27 International Leadership Academy................9 Kids’ Backyard Store......................................36 Little Fruit Farm Montessori..........................19 Living School................................................25 Marylhurst Early Childhood Center................9 Meringue Boutique.......................................32 Merry Kitchen.................................................7 My Kidz World...............................................34 My Masterpiece Art Studio...........................32 N. Clackamas Aquatic Park...........................32 Nit Nanny......................................................34 Northwest Chinese Academy.......................23 ORCAS...........................................................34 Oregon Children’s Theatre...............................3 Oregon Episcopal School................................9 Oregon Hope Chinese School.......................21 Park Academy...............................................25 Peanut Gallery Preschool..............................23 Petit Pois Daycare..........................................23 Pfeifer MusicWerks.......................................29 Play Boutique................................................34 Portland Children’s Museum..........................3 Portland Language Arts...............................19 Portland School of Experiential Education...27 Portland Trampolines....................................36 Portland Youth Ballet....................................29 Scuola Italiana di Portland...........................19 Sitter Soiree...................................................35 Sound Roots School of Music.......................29 Spielwerk Toys...............................................33 St. Cecilia School...........................................25 Sun Garden Montessori................................27 Sunset Preschool...........................................27 Sweet Preas Kidzone.....................................27 Take Shape for Life........................................33 Tears of Joy Theatre.......................................32 Trillium Preschool.........................................21 Willow Tree Preschool...................................11 Winter Family Funfest...................................35 World of Smiles...............................................7 6 | NW Kids Magazine
editor’s
corner
Happy New Year from NW Kids! 2011 brought some major changes for our publication, and it was an incredibly rewarding year for the magazine and for all of us. And now that it’s on the books, we’re all ready to dive in, head first to 2012. We’re not so much about making resolutions, but more about starting fresh and improving on what we already work so hard to attain, so look for more of the same great resources you’ve always found in NW Kids, and also look for some improvements to the magazine and our website with more, more, more resources and information on ways to have fun with your families. This month we’re focusing on school open houses and have included an Open House Guide with tools to help you find the right schools for your families. We also feature an article by Scoop on Schools on how to find a whole-family fit when considering your children’s education, and how to figure out amongst the moderately confusing sea of information on Portland schools. We’ve also compiled some great information on Kindie music in Portland including an interview with our favorite Dad rocker, Mo Phillips, a piece on local music schools, and where to find great products to get your kiddo started with their own band in our Found Around Town section. As always, our intention is to provide families with information on what’s fun to do in Portland, but we will also continue to focus on local businesses, activities, artists, schools and more to create a cohesive editorial resource for you, our readers. As we gear up for another awesome year, we want to hear from you along the way. Please feel free to contact us with feedback, questions or editorial ideas at editors@nwkidsmagazine.com, and while you’re at it, don’t forget to “like” us on facebook. Here’s to a great 2012, friends. — Kelley and Beth
NW Kids Magazine | 7
music
Northwest Kindie (Kids+Indie) Record Reviews By dot rust The music scene for Northwest families has never been better or more varied than it is right now. The burgeoning Kindie music scene is spawning great music for families all over the US, and in true Left Coast fashion, Northwest bands are embracing the Kindie spirit: great music, just like you would craft for grownups, only for families. 2011 brought some great debuts from Northwest bands, and garnered national exposure on the 2011 year-end lists of industry tastemakers, to boot. In no particular order, here are just a few of the best Kindie recordings from Northwest artists released within the last year.
Lori Henriques: “Outside My Door”
Lori Henriques is getting lots of attention with her brilliant debut “Outside My Door”. This intimate and thoughtful record is a throwback to the 70s and Sesame Street-style jazz for kids. Her original songs are insightful and sensitive, and highlight the things that kids learn and wonder about, with clever lyrics and rhyme schemes, evocative of daydreaming and pensiveness.
Recess Monkey: “Flying!”
Laura Veirs: “Tumble Bee”
Every once in a while a kid’s album comes along that just shines above the rest as a rare gem, that perfect combination of material, brilliant arranging, stellar execution and wonderful intimacy that will make a kids’ album become part of our culture. “Tumble Bee” is the first family music album from Laura Veirs and it truly is a work of art; crafted with care and thought.
The Alphabeticians: “Rock”
Seattle band Recess Another debut album Monkey’s new one, “Flygarnering national ating!”, offers a superherotention. “Rock” from inspired collection of Portland band The music on their seventh Alphabeticians is 18 songs long, and it’s pretty studio CD. Chris Ballew/Caspar Babypants, apparent that these guys like words and wordMolly Ledford (Lunch Money), Justin Lansing play, rhymes, puns, and musical and cultural (The Okee Dokee Brothers), Dean Jones (Dog references for grownups mixed in for good muon Fleas), Johnny Bregar, Tom Baisden (The sical measure. This album rocks, gently mostly, Not-Its!), and Chris Wiser (Sugar Free Allstars) with plenty of guitars and rock-based licks, but all play superhero. Childrens’ author/illustrator manages to connect with kids with subjects like Jarrett Krosocska (Lunch Lady, Punk Farm) monsters, growing up, more ABCs, and being contributes “Flying’s” stunning interior comic small in a big world. strip artwork, showing the world just how Recess Monkey became superheroes. A longtime Portlander, Dot Rust has a varied career in music as a performer, educator, music industry executive, writer and children’s music evangelist. She currently helps run a family music label in the UK, teaches music at Mount Hood Community College and consults with northwest Kindie artists.
8 | NW Kids Magazine
outings
NW Kids Magazine | 9
schools
School Open House Guide Ainsworth Elementary
All Saints School
Aprende con Amigos
address
2425 SW Vista Avenue, Portland, OR 97201
601 NE 39th Avenue, Portland, OR 97232
5206 N. Interstate Avenue, Portland, OR 97217
phone
503-916-6288
503-236-6205
503-740-0304
website
ainsworthelementary. org
allsaintsportland.com
a prendeconamigos. com
description
Supporting all students in achieving their very highest educational and personal potential, to inspire in them an enduring love for learning.
Faith-centered education and community in partnership with parents. Prepares students to be life-long learners, responsible citizens committed to the values of Christ.
Fun, nurturing, innovative preschool program designed to enhance social, emotional, cognitive, and gross motor skills while learning a second language.
open house
Feb 2 at 6:30 pm in the Auditorium
Pre-K: Feb 7, 6:30 pm, Jan 18, Feb 16, March Feb 9, 9 am, K: Feb 21, 14, April 17 6:30 pm, Feb 23, 9 am, Grades 1-8: Feb 28, 6:30pm
grade range/ age range
K-5
Pre-K - 8th Grades
3 - 5 years old
full-day kindy
Yes
Yes
No
max enrollment
N/A
class size approx 25
30
student teacher Varies ratio
10:1; varies by grade
7:1
Before/After School Care
Yes
Yes
No
Religious Affiliation
No
Catholic
No
Tuition Range
None
See website for details.
$320 - $850 monthly
Financial Aid
No
Yes
No
Teaching Method
N/A
N/A
Spanish Immersion
Speciality Program
Spanish/English Immersion and Neighborhood School, Balanced Curriculum with Music, Art, PE, Media & more.
Thematic Curriculum Imagination Yoga approach includes: Language Arts, Science, Math, Religion, Social Studies & more.
10 | NW Kids Magazine
Aa Bb Cc NW Kids Magazine | 11
schools
School Open House Guide Bodhi Tree Center
Burlingame Preschool
Escuela Viva
address
5403 SE Center Street, Portland, OR 97206
2401 SW Taylors Ferry Road, Suite B, Portland, OR 97219
1111 SE Pine Street, Portland, OR 97214
phone
503-788-0336
503-244-0689
503-282-2091
website
BodhiTreeChineseSch ool.org
burlingamepreschool.org
escuela-viva.com
description
Mandarin Chinese immersion program for toddlers, preschoolers, Pre-K. Chinese and Japanese classes for children 6+ years.
Our cooperative preschool has been part of the community since 1958. Our bright EcoHealthy classrooms and caring teachers help kids thrive.
Dual Language Program including an infant toddler preschool, and pre-K/K classes designed to encourage children to find success and happiness.
open house
See website for details.
Feb. 11, 10am - 12noon April 7, 10am - 12noon
See website for details.
grade range/ age range
2, 3 - 6, 6+
3&4
6 months Kindergarten
full-day kindy
No
No
Yes
max enrollment
Depends on class
20 per class
N/A
student teacher Depends on class/ ratio program
10:1 or better!
Depends on ages
Before/After School Care
Yes
No
Yes
Religious Affiliation
No
No
No
Tuition Range
Depends on class
$55 to $155 monthly
$650 - $1,150 monthly
Financial Aid
No
No
Yes
Teaching Method
Montessori influenced + Right-brain methods
Learning through play
Constructivist
Speciality Program
Math, Chinese language arts, Chinese fine arts, learning through activity, song, dance.
Dedicated spaces for Art, Reading, Blocks, Rotating Educational Features, Outdoor Play & more.
Spanish, Arts, Music and Movement.
12 | NW Kids Magazine
schools
French American International School
German American School of Portland
Growing Seeds in Irvington and north
Hope Chinese Charter School
8500 NW Johnson Street, Portland, OR 97229
3900 SW Murray, Beaverton, OR 97005
2808 NE MLK Boulevard, PO Box 91602, 6505 NE MLK Boulevard, Portland, OR 97291 Portland, OR
503-292-7776
503-626-9089
503-203-0916 / 203-0913 971-226-7500
faispdx.org
gspdx.org
growingseeds.net
hopeccs.org
FAIS’s multilingual programs stimulate curiosity, encourage independent thinking, foster individual responsibility, and help students realize their full potential.
The German American School of Portland offers a dual language program where both the German and English languages and cultures are taught and appreciated.
See website for details.
Public Chinese immersion charter school provides a comprehensive bilingual / biliterate education with emphasis in Mandarin, English and mathematics.
Lower School: Jan 29, Jan 10, 6pm 9-11 am; April 5, 9-11 am. Middle School: Feb 2, 6:30 - 8 pm.
Irvington: Tuesdays 3pm. North: Wed mornings 10am-11am. Please RSVP.
Jan 5: 6:30 – 7:30pm Jan 12: 6:30 – 7:30pm
2.5 years - 8th Grade
Pre - 5th Grade
6 weeks - 6 years
K - 2nd Grade
N/A
Yes
No
Yes
545
250
N/A
60
9:1
9:1
depends on age
20:1
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
$11,800 - $15,000 yearly
$8,835 - $14,250 yearly
$585 - $1,325 monthly
K: $4,950 yearly
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
language Immersion in an IB World School
Language Immersion
Reggio Emilia
Mandarin Chinese immersion, Singapore Math, PBIS, OCF
Language Immersion, French, German, Spanish, Mandarin, English, Music, Art, Sports, Camps & more.
State-of-the-art facilities, Art, Science and Music classrooms, Solar Panel Installation, Solar Lab, and a Soccer Field.
See website for details.
Mandarin Chinese Immersion instruction.
NW Kids Magazine | 13
schools
School Open House Guide INTERNATIONAL LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
Little Fruit Farm Montessori
Marylhurst Early Childhood Center
address
1040 C Avenue, 16445 SW Melinda Street, PO Box 996, Beaverton, OR 97007 Lake Oswego, OR 97034
817 12th Street, Oregon City, OR 97045
phone
503-662-8452
503-521-8603
503-650-0978
website
ilapdx.org
littlefruitfarmmontessori .com
marylhurstecc.com
description
Scholarly, innovative, Certified, licensed multilingual/multiculhomebased A.M.I. tural program to help Montessori preschool in each student maximize SW Beaverton. Beautiful his or her lifelong poindoor/outdoor classroom tential and meet chaland welcoming, lenges with confidence. dedicated teachers.
Each child travels a unique path. In our community of creators, explorers and citizens, we honor each journey.
open house
See website for details.
See website for details.
January 21, 9am-noon
grade range/ age range
2 1/2 years old Middle school
2.5 - 6
Preschool - 2nd grade
full-day kindy
Yes
No
Yes
max enrollment
50
16
180
student teacher 8:1 ratio
6:1
8:1
Before/After School Care
Yes
Yes
Yes
Religious Affiliation
No
No
No
Tuition Range
$6,098 - $9,900 yearly
$500 - $800 monthly
$125 - $680 monthly
Financial Aid
Yes
No
Yes
Teaching Method
French curriculum active method. Learner center method
Montessori
Emergent curriculum
Speciality Program
Music, Art, French, Arabic, Spanish, Chinese, Body in Motion program, Cooking, Yoga, Piano, Tech. and more.
Music, soccer, arts and crafts, variety of field trips and after school tutoring.
Enrichment programs offered in Spanish, Art & Science.
14 | NW Kids Magazine
schools
Northwest
Opal School of the Children’s Museum
Oregon Episcopal School
Oregon Hope Chinese School and immersion preschool
8 565 SW BeavertonHillsdale Highway, Beaverton, OR 97225
4015 SW Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221
6300 SW Nicol Road, Portland, OR 97223
14986 NW Cornell Road, Portland, OR 97229
503-546-3455
503-471-9917
503-246-7771
971-226-7240
nwchineseacademy.org
portlandcm.org
oes.edu
oregon-hope.org
Educating today for tomorrow’s world. Full time, co-educational Mandarin Chinese immersion school serving preschool middle school.
Curriculum built on inquiry based, Reggio Emilia learning strategies; and influenced by a strong image of children as intelligent, creative and resourceful.
Independent college preparatory school for Pre-K-Grade 12. Prepares young leaders with the skills needed to thrive in a changing world.
OHCS Mandarin Kids Chinese Immersion Preschool is an OR state certified early childhood Chinese Mandarin immersion program for children ages 3-5.
Jan 21, 10am-12pm; Jan 17, 6:30pm-8pm Jan 28, 8:30am-10am Jan 22, 1-3 pm; Feb 4, 10am-12 pm; Feb 5, 1-3 pm; Feb 7, 4:30 - 7 pm
January 5, 6pm - 8pm
Jan.12, 6:30pm-7:30pm
Preschool (age 3) Middle School
3 - 6 years
PK - 5th grade
Ages 3 - 5
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
120
20
7:1
10:1
8:1
7:1
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
Episcopal, nonparochial/Independent
No
$6,500 - $12,750 yearly
$6,850 - $8,250 yearly
$13,110 - $24,230 yearly $289 - $879 monthly
Yes
No
Yes
No
Immersion Education
Reggio Emilia
PK & K - Reggio Emilia
Chinese Mandarin immersion
Chinese language fluency and cultural understanding, Math, Science, Music, Art, English Literacy & more.
See website for details.
Music, art, language, PE, High quality Chinese Spanish, lunch included language and culture in tuition. immersion program. Music, Art, Games & more.
Chinese Academy
43
NW Kids Magazine | 15
schools
School Open House Guide Park Academy
Petit Pois Daycare
Scuola Italiana di Portland
address
1 7600 Pacific Highway, Marylhurst, OR 97036
7348 SW Corbett Avenue, Portland, OR 97219
PO Box 6507, Portland, OR 97228 (Pearl District)
phone
503-697-6213
503-208-1007
971-271-0470
website
parkacademy.org
petitpoisdaycare.com
scuola.us
description
Welcomes students whose learning challenges, specifically dyslexia, have not been addressed in a traditional school setting.
Petit Pois is a French/ English Bilingual daycare located in a calm, friendly neighborhood in Southwest Portland.
Promotes Italian language and culture to children in a studentcentered environment; nurturing responsible, global citizens.
open house
January 26 6:30 pm - 8 pm
Feb 6 12 noon - 5 pm
May 12 10:30am - 12:30pm
grade range/ age range
4 - 12th grade
Infants - 4 years old
Preschool to adult ages 3 years and up
full-day kindy
No
No
No
max enrollment
52
12
N/A
student teacher 7:1 ratio
1 to 6 (or 1 to 4 for babies)
6:1
Before/After School Care
Yes
Yes
No
Religious Affiliation
No
No
No
Tuition Range
$15,500 yearly
$182 - $276 weekly
$10 - $13 hourly
Financial Aid
Yes
No
No
Teaching Method
Multi-sensory
French/English Bilingual
Reggio Emilia immersion
Speciality Program
Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, Math and Writing, Theatre, Art, Music, ASL & Spanish (High School only).
Each month we explore a new academic theme through the use of stories, songs, and art and craft projects.
Reggio Emilia inspired preschool for 3 & 4 year olds, weekend & after-school language immersion & more.
16 | NW Kids Magazine
schools
St. Cecilia School
SunGarden Sunset Montessori Preschool Children’s House
Sweet PEAS
12250 SW 5th Street, Beaverton, OR 97005
2284 Long Street, West Linn, OR 97068
6100 SW Raab Road, Portland, OR 97221
1 5320 NW Central Drive, Portland, OR 97229
503-644-2619
503-655-2609
503-246-6435
503-533-5252
stceciliaschool.us
sungardenmontessori.org
sunset-preschool.com
sweetpeaskidzone.com
The mission of St. Cecilia School is to prepare students to be responsible citizens and life-long learners with strong Catholic values.
SunGarden is a charming place for children to learn and grow. AMI recognized. Non-profit. Jr. Green School.
Learn Through Play Cooperative Preschool.
We implement a program that encourages social and emotional growth in combination with physical and mental development.
Jan 29 10 am to 12:30 pm
Jan 28 10am - 12 pm
Jan 31 7:00 pm
Feb 7, 6-8pm and Feb 11, 10am-noon
PK - 8
Ages 2.5 - 6
3 - 5 years old
3-K
Yes
Yes
N/A
Yes
30 per grade (K-8)
50
20 4's ; 18 3's
14 per class
14:1
8.3:1
1:8-10 (plus parent)
7:1
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Catholic
No
No
No
$1,500 - $5,900 yearly
$585 - $995 monthly
$175 - $200 monthly
Varies
Yes
Yes
No
No
N/A
Montessori
Developmentally appropriate - Learn Through Play
N/A
Co-curricular offerings include PE & Health, Music, Computer, Spanish, Art, Literacy, Sports & more.
Practical Life, Sensorial, Music, Language, Art, Mathematics, Geography, Movement & Outdoor Activities.
Music, Art, Movement, Off-site activities, Inhouse guest visitors.
See website for details.
Kidzone
NW Kids Magazine | 17
schools
School Open House Guide The Living School
The Peanut Gallery Playschool
The Portland School of Experiential Education
address
1111 SE Pine Street, Portland, OR 97214
NE Portland (Cully neighborhood)
2728 NE 34th Avenue, Portland, OR 97212
phone
503-752-4783
503-998-7259
503-288-8685
website
thelivingschool.org
thepeanutgalleryplayscho pdxedschool.org ol.com
description
A lively, nurturing, independent, community K-6 school where learners cultivate confidence, empathy, creativity, resourcefulness, and a strong work ethic.
Program designed to combine social & educational benefits in an inhome environment including self-directed play, & creative expression through art & imagination.
Nurtures innate curiosities and the exchanging of ideas, in a collaborative and cooperative learning environment and fosters a life-long love of learning.
open house
Feb 2, 6pm March 1, 6pm
Feb 25, 10 am - 12 noon
Tours Upon Request + Open House March
grade range/ age range
K-6
18 months to not yet 4 by September 2012
2.5 - 6 years old
full-day kindy
Yes
No
Yes
max enrollment
56
16
40
student teacher 14:1 ratio
2-3 teachers to 14-16 students
Ratios fall significantly under legal limit
Before/After School Care
Yes
No
Yes
Religious Affiliation
No
No
No
Tuition Range
$700 monthly
See website for details.
$400 - $1200 monthly
Financial Aid
N/A
No
Yes
Teaching Method
a mixture of Reggio Emilia, Constructivist, Education for Life
N/A
Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Outdoor Education
Speciality Program
Dual language English/ Spanish program, an hour of P.E. each day, outdoor play, art, and community outreach.
After care available until 4:30 pm.
Spanish, Music PSU Practicum Site, Art, Outdoor Education + All Weather School, Gardening, Yoga & more.
18 | NW Kids Magazine
schools
Trillium Charter School
Willow Tree Preschool
5420 N. Interstate Avenue, Portland, OR 97217
7055 N Williams Avenue, Portland, OR 97217
503-285-3833
503-756-6428
trilliumcharterschool. org
willowtreepreschool.com
Placing the natural development of children and relationships that they share with their environment at the center of our philosophy.
Children’s natural sense of awe and wonder is nurtured through movement, song and story, and art, nature and the seasons.
Jan 26, 6:30 - 7:30 pm Feb 23, 6:30 - 7:30 pm
February 4 10am - 12noon
Ages 3 and 4
3 - 5 years old
No
No
24 Sprouts/16 Blossoms
13 per day
8:1
6:1
Yes
No
No
No
$220 - $640 monthly
$420 - $725 monthly
No
No
Reggio Emilia
Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, Play based
See website for details.
Weekly visits from Yoga & Art Specialists, Reggio influences, Inquiry and Reflection & more. NW Kids Magazine | 19
music
Iggy Pop onesie
at Black Wagon, $28.
Rhythm Tom Tom
Saxoflute at Finnegans, $10.
at Spielwerk Toys, $28.
by cleeo & bea
Mr. Ben Ukulele at Milagros and Eco Baby Gear, $70.
McSweeney’s Symphony City by Amy Martin at buyolympia.com, $18.
Crow Sounder at The Learning Place, $8. Handle Sleigh Bells at The Learning Place, $8.
Plan Xylophone at Thinker Toys, $23.
Hedgehog Plays Piano Art Print by Susie Ghahremani at buyolympia.com $20.
cleeo & bea is a Portland mama-owned blog featuring hip kid product reviews. Our goal is to provide useful information and honest reviews of kids’ products that our families and friends have used. We find high-quality, eco- and kid-safe, cool products—things you might not see everyday—and enjoy passing them on to you. cleeoandbea.com 20 | NW Kids Magazine
NW Kids Magazine | 21
schools
Schools: Finding A Whole-Family Fit by Scoop On Schools Navigating the Portland school system can take a lot of time and research, but one of the most important factors is to consider your family’s resources, and the lifestyle shifts you are willing to make when your kids start school. Before getting started on your search for the right schools, and especially before considering schools across town or that charge tuition, take some time to figure out your boundaries and what works for your family. Money The most obvious resource issue is money. Try to take a cold, hard look at what your boundaries are on costs. Can you afford to consider private school, or would you qualify for tuition assistance? Can you afford to pay for full time Kindergarten ($200-300 a month for schools that do not get supplemental federal Title 1 funding, yes, for public school, sad to say this is the reality in Oregon) if that is what is offered at the school where you end up? Do you need to factor in costs for before or after school care? Transportation Transportation is a money, time, and availability issue. Transfer students are not bussed to their non-neighborhood school, so this must be considered if you are looking outside of your neighborhood. Going to a school that is a schlep can also impact your family’s involvement and sense of connection to that school, and can make play dates a real hassle. Especially in the case of neighborhood schools, commuting in from another neighborhood can impact your family’s chances to
be socially spontaneous, and also affect your sense of connection with your own neighbors. Considering The Whole Family Another thing to consider is the collective interest of your family. It’s tempting to engineer a decision around that first child entering school, with the second or third child only as an afterthought. But take a look at your other children, and assuming that you are hoping to put all your kids in the same school, do your best to make the decision with all of them in mind. What about the culture you are looking for as a parent? The ideal situation is of course a community that the whole family will enjoy, where your values will be echoed in the halls and homes of your new school. And on the subject of “whole-family fit” keep in mind that your co-parenting partner might have different notions than you. Getting on the same page might take hours of conversation and will force you both to hone your vision and eloquently advocate for it, not always an easy task. Leave Yourself Some Flexibility All this said, give yourself a backdoor. Many of our friends have set boundaries in place, only to visit a school and feel the cosmic pull that their child belongs there, and the plan is adjusted. You’ll have ideals and you’ll have realities, but in the end some compromise or another will probably be made in the school decision, so leave yourself room to change your mind as you go through the process.
Scoop on Schools is a product of two Portland moms’, Jacqueline Jannotta Rothenberg and Katy Mayo-Hudson collective obsession with finding Portland schools where their children would thrive. For guidance and a wealth of information, visit, scooponshools.com. 22 | NW Kids Magazine
NW Kids Magazine | 23
music
Making Musicians: Portland Music Schools By Jen Anderson Whether it’s banging on pots and pans or singing the silly version of “Jingle Bell Rock” at the top of their lungs, most kids are just bursting to release their inner rock star. With Portland’s colossal music scene, there are endless opportunities to harness that creative energy and nurture your little Mozart’s talents. They all operate under the same premise: it’s never too early to expose kids to music, and the more positive musical influences, the better. Who can argue with that? Here are some of the Rose City’s most popular offerings for the youngest set.
Sound Roots
3954 N Williams Ave. soundrootsmusic.com The Rookie Rock hour-long drop-in class ($5 per kid age 0-7) lets kids and their parents hang out with local musical favorites like Mo Philips and Tyleena Fairyfunkmother as they learn about rhythms and explore various instruments. Junior Jams classes ($60/month, once a week for 45 minutes) is for kiddos age 3-6, who learn different instruments, compose their own songs and build a band. Older kids 6-9 can spend two weeks each of a 10-week course ($160) exploring a single instrument to find their favorite. East Coast transplants Fara and Chris Heath opened the studio three years ago, after moving here and seeing the state of music education in the schools.
Ethos Music Center
10 N. Killingsworth St. ethos.org
This nonprofit powerhouse, established in 1998, offers everything from preschool classes to lessons for grade-schoolers, summer rock band camps and Music Corps programs in the schools. Little Music (age 2-4 $90 per 10week session), is a musical story time and instrument exploration for parents and kids. Lessons for older kids ($120 per session) are offered in keyboard, hand drums and ukulele (kindergarten to grade 2), as well as guitar, drum set, piano and violin (grades 2-6). Ethos uses a sliding scale, with financial aid and 24 | NW Kids Magazine
Photos Courtesy of Ethos Music Center
free instrument loans for students qualifying for free or reduced meals at school.
Pfeifer MusicWerks Studio
4518 NE 28th Ave. MusicWerksStudio.com
MusicWerks offers a wide-range of classes for babes on up through adult taught by professional music teachers. Music lessons are tailored to the student and can take place in the studio or at home. Lessons include piano, guitar, a wide range of strings, and voice instruction, as well as Theory, Composition, and specialty courses. For the younger set, check out the 10 week Music and Movement courses for parents and tots ages 0 - 3 ($140) or the 12 week Piano Pixie course for ages 3 and up ($210). Students will develop a strong foundation in music fundamentals while having fun. Jen Anderson is a reporter for the Portland Tribune, covering education and youth issues in the local area. She is the mama to two boys and lives in Beaverton.
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music
Dad Rock? Nope, A Dad Who Rocks We’ve spent the last few years following Kindie musicians around the city. Our goal has been to find artists that our kids can cut a rug to, and that we like, too. One of our favorites is Mo Phillips. The kids love Mo because he’s fun and makes them feel like dancing, catching air, and laughing all at once. His songs are original, not syrupy sweet, and he’s usually good for a toe tapping rendition of a song from our youth. I recently spoke to Mo about Kindie music, what he loves about performing, and where he’s headed. Here’s what he had to say.—KSL What led you to the Kindie music scene? I started playing piano at age five and then had my first guitar/singing gig at 15 in front of my high school singing “Train In Vain” by The Clash, which incidentally, I sang for the kiddos at Milagros this morning. Kindipendent music was a natural confluence of my two lives where I was playing rock shows at Satyricon at night and then going to teach preschool the next day. I would say my two sons had no small part as well. Where do you draw inspiration for your songs? A good 25% of my songs come from my sons Henry and Owen who will start songs or ideas that I then try to expand on. Often their original idea far exceeds my mistreatment of their material. I have a feeling that in twenty years they will be giving interviews about their awesome song making prowess and they will 26 | NW Kids Magazine
say, “Yeah, our old man used to sit around and try to make up songs so it mighta rubbed off on us a bit.” What is Rock ‘n’ Roll Kindy? RNRK is an after school program for grades K-2 where over a ten week session we form a band, write songs, create instruments and t-shirts, and then put on a show for parents. It actually started as a preschool program, the first ever band we formed was Fire Guitars at City Kids here in Portland. What do you like about working with and performing for kids? Unbridled joy. The kids don’t mess around. They are not concerned with my musical integrity or cultural cache. However, they are keenly aware of what they like, and for the most part wear it on their sleeves. They are the most honest of critics.
We can tolerate your music much more than other children’s music, why? I am deeply humbled, truly. This is the great aim, the true mission. “Kids” albums are played at such a high repeat rate that I feel that it is my duty to try and maintain as much parental sanity as I can, whatever little might be left. What’s next for you, projects, tours? We are just finishing up the new album “Monster Suit” and are truly over the moon with how its coming along. It is due out on April 10th. As for tours, I would love to get to the Westside of Portland. Where ya’ at Westside!?! Gimme a call! Mo can be found almost daily playing in kid friendly coffee shops around town and is available for parties or the Rock ‘n’ Roll Kindy program. Learn more at mophillips.com. Mo’s new album “Monster Suit” will be released on April 10th and you can bet we’ll be humming along to it shortly after.
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calendar
Performances
EVENTS All thru Jan
Jan 9
Multnomah County Library – Read to the Dogs
Tears of Joy Theatre performs this classic tale with beautiful puppetry. Free! 12pm. pcpa.com
Kids can practice reading aloud and make new friends by reading to a therapy dog throughout the month of January at various Library branches. Please check website for more details. multcolib.org
Jan 20
Mons in Jan
PCPA Noontime Showcase – The Ugliest Duckling
Disney’s Phineas and Ferb: The Best Live Tour Ever! Disney Channel’s favorite platypus detective is now part of an exciting live touring stage show. Part action adventure and part rock concert with hit songs from the animated series! $20-50, 4pm & 7pm. rosequarter.com
Jan 22, 28 & 29
Oregon Children’s Theatre – The Magic School Bus Live After 25 years of scientific adventures, the Magic School Bus makes its first-ever landing in Portland! The Frizz and her class circle the globe, from Antarctica to the equator, learning about global warming. $20-40, Sat 2pm & 5pm, Sun 2pm. octc.org
Jan 27-29
Northwest Childrens Theater – Rapunzel--Uncut! Get set for a hip new tale of the girl with the tresses trapped in a tower! With a live youth band, this indie rock musical full of humor and adventure features a hapless prince, evil powers and a twist on the traditional tangled tale. $18-$22, Fri 7pm, Sat 2pm & 6pm, Sun 2pm. nwcts.org
Sound Roots School of Music – Taya Jacobs Taya Jacobs brings her sweet southern country roots and infectious personality to the stage for a down home, comfort-food kind of morning music hour at your favorite Nopo music school. $5 per kid, 10am. soundrootsmusic.com
TUES IN JAN
Storytime at Green Bean Books Enjoy weekly storytime at one of our favorite independent children’s bookstores. greenbeanbookspdx.com
Tues and Weds in Jan
Oaks Park – Preschool Play and Skate A special roller skating session just for your little ones! Skating lessons, games, and snack time for kids under 6 years old. $5.50 per child, adults free with paid child admission, includes skate rental. 10-11:30am. oakspark.com
Weds in Jan
Fancy That & Bliss Bake Shop – Storytime & Free Bitty Cupcakes Storytime, free cupcakes, and coffee for the grownups – what’s more to like? Best for kids 5 & under, 10:30-11am. blisscupcakeshop.com
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calendar
Thurs in Jan
E.A.T. – Lunchtime with Mr. Ben Come have lunch or coffee while Mr. Ben entertains and educates the kids in an interactive music show. Free, 11am-12pm. mrbenmusic.com
Jan 5 & 19
Green Bean Books – Magic Books Bookmaking Class Join local artist Sarah Fagan as she teaches kids how to make their very own books! Jan 5 is Flag Books and Jan 19 is Exquisite Corpse, or “whimsical body,” Books. For kids 6-11 – each class is limited to 5 kids so sign up now! $10 per kid, $1 off second kid. 3:304:30pm. greenbeanbookspdx.com
Jan 6
Portland Children’s Museum – Target Free First Fridays Enjoy all the fun of the museum for free! January is the last month check out the new LEGO Castle Adventure exhibit – don’t miss it! 4-8pm. portlandcm.org
Jan 7
Art a la Carte PDX Grand Opening Come celebrate the grand opening of this Sellwood kids’ art studio’s brand spankin’ new space! Craft projects, face painting, live music, and an hourly raffle. Free, with a suggested donation of art supplies. 11am-4pm. artalacartepdx.blogspot.com
Jan 7
Mississippi Pizza – Youth Spelling Bee Calling all master spellers! Kids ages 5-18 compete on the Mississippi Pizza stage, with
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3 difficulty levels, fun prizes, and a treat for every speller. Free entrance, 1pm (signups start at 12:45). mississippipizza.com
Jan 8
Curious Comedy Theater – The Curious Garden Come see our friends old and new – Razzie the Fairy, Daisy the Flower, Dottie the Ladybug and Flappy the Chicken! For all ages - especially kids 0-8, and ends with an open mic where you can sing, dance, tell a joke and show off your talent! $5 suggested donation, 10:30-11:30am. curiouscomedy.org
Jan 8
Magness Memorial Tree Farm – Free Guided Tour A fun and informative tour of the Magness Property where the whole family can learn the history of Magness, some tree identification, and the importance of sustainable forestry. Rain or shine so put your galoshes and comfy clothes on! Free, 2-3pm. worldforestry.org
Jan 10
Oregon Zoo – $4 Second Tuesday Enjoy all the wonders the zoo has to offer the second Tuesday of every month! Kids 0-2 free as always. 9am-4pm. oregonzoo.org
Jan 10
Hopworks – Tot Tuesday Come to Hopworks for a children’s activity and storytime with light, healthy snacks in the upstairs mezzanine. Want to stay for lunch afterward? There’s a kid’s play area! 11am-12pm. hopworksbeer.com
calendar
Jan 13
East Portland Community Center $2 Swim Night Grab your suit and bring the whole family for an evening swim! $2 per person, kids 0-3 free. Family swim 5:30-7pm, open swim 7-9pm. portlandonline.com/parks
Jan 14
Friends of Tryon Creek Wapato Winter Birding Walk An informal walk on Sauvie Island to learn about bird identification, behavior, and resident bird populations. Bring a bag lunch and don’t forget your binoculars! Registration required. Free, 9am-12pm. tryonfriends.org
Jan 14
Belmont Firehouse – Safety Saturday Visit the historic firehouse on Belmont the second Saturday of every month, learn about the history of fire safety in Portland, and check out all the exhibits! 10am-3pm. jeffmorrisfoundation.org
Jan 14
My Masterpiece Art Studio – Parents’ Night Out Enjoy a grownup date night and let your kids get creative at the art studio! They’ll play with paint and clay, have a pizza dinner, and enjoy artful games and stories. The night ends with movie time and a treat! Ages 4-12, $38 per child ($18 per add’l sibling). 5-9pm. mymasterpieceartstudio.com
Jan 20
Community Music Center – Friday Family Series Every month the Community Music Center in SE Portland hosts a free musical night for families. This month, welcome Classical
Revolution PDX, a chamber music group that brings out the casual side of classical music. $5-15 suggested donation. communitymusiccenter.org
JAN 20
Family Movie Night (Rio) Play Boutique Grab the whole family for this fun, memory making event. $6 per person, free for members, 5-7pm. playboutique.com
Jan 21
Oregon Maritime Museum – Museum Family Saturday Families are invited to discover Portland’s maritime history with a craft project to take home. Free for families with kids under 18. 11am-4pm. oregonmaritimemuseum.org
Jan 21 & 22
World Forestry Center – ChocolateFest The 7th Annual ChocolateFest is here! Sample and taste local chocolatey goodness to your heart’s delight. $7-10, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-5pm. chocolatefest.org
Jan 26
Last Thursday on Alberta On the last Thursday of every month, come out to the Alberta Arts neighborhood in NE Portland for street vendors, food carts, live music, and all sorts of entertainment. Bundle up! 4-10pm. lastthursdayonalberta.com
Jan 29
Portland Art Museum – Free 4th Friday Visit the Portland Art Museum for free the 4th Friday of every month! 5-8pm. portlandartmuseum.org NW Kids Magazine | 31
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