NW Kids Magazine June 2023

Editor’s Note

Happy June! The school year is winding down and summer is around the corner. If you haven’t yet secured your kiddos’ summer camp plans, we’re here to help! Head to page 8 for a roundup of 19 fantastic camps that still have spaces available! This month also features a guide to some of the best language immersion schools our area has to offer, plus a Q&A with the Lower School Division Head of French International School of Oregon about the benefits of a language immersion education. Last but certainly not least, June is PRIDE MONTH! In addition to an LGBTQ2SIA+ resource guide, we also have a fantastic story about a local gestational surrogate.

Enjoy this transition from spring to summer and be well!

Mary

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Publisher Michelle Snell michelle@nwkidsmagazine.com

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19 Summer Camps You Can Still Sneak Your Kids Into!

Are you still waiting to finalize your summer plans but you’re worried that all of the best camps are filled? You’re in luck! We’ve rounded up a huge variety of camps that will keep your kids happy all summer long. And they still have openings! But act fast as space is limited!

Aerospace Summer Camps at Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum

Give your child a summer to remember! Register now for their interactive one-week aerospace camps filled with exciting, educational experiences designed to engage 3rd – 9th graders. Aviation Camp: Calling all high-flying adventurers! Jump into the pilot’s seat, dive into the many sides of aviation, and sign up for a week of innovation. Galaxy Camp: Calling all future astronauts & space explorers! Launch into the outer depths of the universe and sign up for a week of scientific missions. Grades 3-9 evergreenmuseum.org/education/summer-camps

Aim High Summer Camps!

Aim High Martial Arts & Events have 11 weeks of fun-filled Summer Camps for the 2023 season. Each week is a different theme with coordinated activities and games. Themes include Star Wars, Lego, Nerf, Art, Science, Harry Potter and more! Some camps have special visitors, like Mad Science and the Reptile Man! Sign up today before all the spots are filled! Ages 4-13 aimhighma.org/camps

Anthony Newman Sports Camps

They offer all day multi-sport camps, Tennis, Basketball and Track and Speed camps for children ages 6-14. Please check their website for more details and for registration. anthonynewmancamps.com

Art World School Art Camp

Half Day or Full Day Camp with Fine Art (Drawing/ Painting), Clay, Arts & Crafts, Mixed Media, Yoga, Calligraphy, 3D classes every day. Different level classes depending on age group, with various weekly themes, taught by professional artists using high quality art supplies. Trial classes offered with flexible enrollment options. Ages 4-14 artworldschool.com

BODYVOX Kids Camp

Students will work with BODYVOX’s outstanding roster of professional dancers and teaching artists to develop dance technique, expand their imaginations as they move their bodies, and explore the connection between dance, rhythm, music, and creativity. Each day will feature a variety of classes including visual art and creative movement. June 19 - 23 and June 26 - 30 Camp for ages 4-5 | 9am - Noon | $250 Camp for ages 6-10 | 9am - 2:30pm | $350 Afternoon adventure (optional) | 2:30 - 4:30pm | $150. Ages 4-10 bodyvox.com/classes

Eden Acres

EdenAcres Environmental Education. Nature-Based summer camps for kids and teens, ages 3-15! edenacres.org

Fine Art Starts!

Draw, paint, print & sculpt in our treed location! Small groups, quality supplies, skillful staff. Step-by-step lessons, then self-directed exploration. Fine art, not crafts. NEW projects daily/weekly! Full & half days. Extended care available. Grades K-12 artcampspdx.com

Herrold Stables, LLC

Students will receive horse riding experience in Western Equitation, Showmanship, and Horsemanship. Come to all or just one Summer Horse Camp this year. Ages 3-16 herroldstables.com

JA BizTown Summer Camp

The camp where students take charge! Campers explore jobs, earn an income and become entrepreneurs. This dynamic program teaches valuable life lessons while sparking your child’s excitement for the future. Ages 10-14

jaorswwa.org/ja-biztown-summer-camp-1-1

MJCC Summer Day Camp

Have an AWESOME summer at MJCC Day Camp! Health + safety is their top priority. Enjoy quality, age-appropriate programs that are super fun: swimming, cooking, Jewish culture, art, + more! Flexible options 8:00 am – 5:30 pm. Open to everyone ages 3-15. oregonjcc.org/daycamp

Mr. David’s School of Film Lego Animation and Movie Making Camp

At Mr. David’s School of Film, your child can unleash their creativity this summer with their Lego Animation and Movie-Making Summer Camps. Their camp provides a fun and immersive environment for your child to explore the exciting world of animation and movie-making, while learning new skills and making new friends. With both morning and fullday options available, their flexible scheduling accommodates the busy summer schedules of parents and children alike. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to give your child a summer full of excitement, creativity, and learning! Ages 5.5-14 bit.ly/mrdavidsignup

Northwest Children’s Theater

Northwest Children’s Theater’s award-winning summer camps are coming to a neighborhood near you. Campers ages 4-14 will learn theater skills in a safe and welcoming environment, while gaining confidence, building social skills, and having fun! Ages 4-14

nwcts.org/2023-summer-camp

Northwest Outward Bound School

Summer Adventure Camp

Experience the fun and adventure of Northwest Outward Bound School through their new Summer Adventure Day Camps. Campers will learn rock climbing and outdoor skills with their experienced Instructors at the Mazama Mountaineering Center. Join to climb, explore, and make new friends! No climbing experience or outdoor skills needed–everyone is welcome! Ages 10-14

nwobs.org/programs/summer-adventure-camp

Oregon Children’s Theatre

Keep kids engaged all summer long at OCT’s Acting Academy! Full-day and half-day options available for kids and teens, offering week-long camps that are perfect for learning new skills, strengthening collaboration, and having fun in a safe, welcoming environment. Four locations throughout Portland! Ages 3-18

octc.org/camps

Portland Preschool of the Arts

They are offering summer camps for even the smallest PDX campers from 3-5 years old, 9:00am to 1:00pm Monday through Friday. You may purchase one week or all 6 weeks that they offer! Bubbles, Bugs, Pirates, Dinosaurs, Rainforest Animals. Summer fun for your toddlers. Ages 3-5 portlandpreschoolofthearts.com/summercamp-2023

PTFC Camps

Summer is finally here! Head back to Providence Park, visit them in Hillsboro, or check out ther new locations including Tigard and Salem, and keep those soccer skills sharp! AND, if you are looking to save this summer, be sure to check out their bundle discount program where you can save by signing up for multiple weeks of camp! Ages 5-18

ptfccamps.com

Sellwood Community House

Sellwood Community House summer camp is 9 timeless weeks of fun, with a different theme each week. From dance parties to the county fair, Mad Science to the circus, campers will leave each day tired out and filled to the brim with memories that will last a lifetime. Preschool - 5th grade sellwoodcommunityhouse.org/school-agecamps-2023

Summer Sing! – ORS Youth Choir

At Summer Sing, you’ll spend a week enjoying the wonderful experience of making music with new friends. Let your imagination take the lead... Who knows what you will create! Don’t miss out –register today! “I know I can...be what I want to be!”

Ages 5-12

orsingers.org/youth-choir/summer-sing

Willowbrook Arts Camp

Willowbrook provides 3- 18 year old’s opportunities for exploration, experience and expression in arts and nature. They have opportunities to be self directed, unscheduled and unplugged while exploring a broad range of fine, performing, ceramic, fiber arts and nature. Ages 3-15 willowbrookartscamp.org

The Benefits of a Language Immersion Education

We chatted with Aurore Molerus, the Lower School Division Head at French International School of Oregon, about some of the considerations in choosing a language immersion education for your child.

How early can a child begin immersion education?

As early as possible! Young children learn differently from adults, which makes them prodigious language learners*. From infancy to about 12 years old, there is a cognitive window for children where the brain has a functional plasticity**. After that, language is stored into this hard to reach compartment.

At FIS, students can begin in our Maternelle* program as early as 2 ½ years old in Toute Petite Section (early preschool specifically for 2 ½ year-olds). All of our teachers are native speakers from Frenchspeaking countries and are experts in immersion learning, passionate about supporting little ones as they embark on this journey.

What are the lifelong benefits of a bilingual education?

In an immersion program, students don’t just learn another language, they learn IN another language. Studies show this enhances focus, critical thinking, problem solving, open-mindedness, interpersonal skills, and so much more. It also enhances empathy. Learning in another language means connecting to the rest of the world in all its diversity. It becomes a part of our thinking process because we practice looking at things from different perspectives.

At FIS, we also nurture those key skills through an IB framework (International Baccalaureate), an inquiry based program that cultivates global citizens “through academic rigor and emphasis on students’ personal development.”

All this constitutes a solid foundation for being a balanced learner throughout your whole life.

Can math and science be taught adequately in a second language?

Without a doubt! Again, immersion means learning IN another language. It is not a language program. Expectations for all subjects are set by the school’s curriculum and program. FIS, for example, is part of a network of over 500 accredited schools around the world that follow the French national curriculum. Goals are set by the Education Nationale*. So students are expected to learn math and science at the same level as all those schools.

While all this learning is happening, students are developing the key skills mentioned earlier, like critical thinking and problem solving. And that is not the extent of it. In the end, learning math and science in another language is actually enhanced because it is taught in a second language.

How can parents and caregivers support a bilingual education if they do not speak a second language?

The key to supporting your child is to stay connected to their learning journey and that can happen in so many ways that do not require speaking a second language. Parents need to show their children that they’re excited and proud of this learning journey. It can also be beneficial to explain why you chose an immersion program.

At FIS, at the end of fifth grade, students travel to France for an exchange

program. Some families meet up with their children at the end of this exchange to then travel across Europe as a family to experience other cultures. Another way parents can support their child’s bilingual education is to reflect with them on their school life, their projects, and their day. These reflections can happen in any language. These are just a few suggestions and there are so many more!

Do you see your bilingual alumni succeed in more diverse careers than their single language peers?

While it’s difficult to say whether it is the case or not, numerous studies are conclusive: learning one or several languages promotes cognitive, social, and professional development.

We live at a time when information is shared worldwide in seconds in all languages and where speaking another language means more opportunities in professional work. Therefore immersing in other languages, with its lifelong benefits, becomes strategic in our society and can only influence our students’ choices and paths into their adult life. I can’t wait to hear from my students in 10, 15, 20 years from now and hear all about their adventures!

Founded in 1979, FIS offers French immersion for preschool-5th grade. Their middle school offers four immersion tracks (French, German, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish) and an Englishfocused track with beginning language. To learn more, visit fisoregon.org

*Thompson-Schill, University of Pennsylvania

**Functional Plasticity is the ability to change behaviour based on experience. In education, that experience is typically derived from structured learning environments.

***Maternelle is an accredited curriculum by the French government for ages 2½-6

**** Ministère de l’Education Nationale et de la jeunesse is the French Ministry in charge of education, from primary to higher education, Universities and public research.

2023 Language

Immersion School Guide

There’s no question that the Portland Metro area has no shortage of fantastic schools, but did you realize how many language immersion options there are? Check out our roundup below and take a step toward helping your child become a global citizen!

Arco Iris

Spanish Immersion School

Tuition-free public charter school providing rich, immersive Spanish language and robust academics for grades K-5 in a true multicultural setting.

Grades K-5

8205 SW Creekside Pl, Beaverton (503) 372-6052

arcoirisschool.org

French International School of Oregon

Unique immersion and IB school. French immersion through 5th grade with additional multilingualism (Spanish, German, French, English) in Middle School. Ages 2.5-8th grade

8500 NW Johnson St, Portland (503) 292-7776

fisoregon.org

SCOULA ITALIANA DI PORTLAND

German International School

As a language immersion & International Baccalaureate World school, they educate our students to be internationally-minded lifelong learners. Ages 2 - 6th grade

3900 SW Murray Blvd. Beaverton (503) 626-9089

gspdx.org

International Leadership Academy

Open to all (French Language Proficiency Not Required). Camp hours 9am - 3pm; 7:30am early care (free). Chef prepared lunches and snacks are included!

14788 Boones Ferry Road, Lake Oswego (503) 662-8452

ilapdx.org/summercamp2023

International School of Portland

Embrace the World! Since 1990, they’ve offered full language and cultural immersion in a warm, loving environment that encourages curiosity and kindness. Ages 3-5th grade

2305 S Water Ave, Portland (503) 226-2496

intlschool.org

ARCO IRIS SPANISH IMMERSION SCHOOL

INTERNATIONAL LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Portland Kinderschule

Portland Kinderschule is a play-based German-immersion co-operative preschool in SW Portland for children ages 3 to 5 years and who are potty trained.

2195 SW Vermont Street

(503) 489-7760

portlandkinderschule.com

Scuola Italiana di Portland

They offer a part-time Italian language and cultural immersion preschool in NW Portland, mirroring the scuola dell’infanzia (preschool) in Italy. Ages 3-5 1542 NW 14th Ave, Portland scuola.us

Sophie Scholl Schule

Their native-speaking teachers use language immersion and modern teaching methods. Classes for all ages and levels. Check out their beloved summer camp! Ages preschool-adult

Multiple Locations

(971) 217-7212

sophieschollschule.org

SOPHIE SCHOLL SCHULE

PORTLAND KINDERSCHULE

GERMAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Uniting Families Across the World Through Surrogacy

Krystle is a married mom of three boys, has a degree in chemical engineering, is a postpartum doula, and is the intended parent coordinator for a local surrogacy agency, All Families Surrogacy. She is also a three-time gestational surrogate for a family in Israel, and this is the story of how Krystle forever changed the lives of her family and a family across the globe.

After having an easy, uncomplicated pregnancy with her own twins boys, Krystle started thinking about becoming a surrogate to help someone else achieve their dreams of parenthood. Her simple thought was, “I had two for the price of one so I can do this for someone else,” and with that she started her research and decided she wanted to work with an agency to help guide and support her throughout her journey. After finding All Families at a woman-owned business event, she decided she’d found her agency and she was ready to get the process started.

Helping an LGBTQIA+ family was important to Krystle who remembers back to 2017, “when I got the profile of my potential IPs [intended parents] and it was a same sex couple I was so happy be able to support the LBGTQIA+ community.”

After both Krystle and the IPs decided to match with each other, it soon became a family affair for Krystle.

“My children have been involved from the beginning. They are always included in Zoom and WhatsApp video calls. We call the IPs “the Dads”, so they are always asking when can we talk with the Dads. They [my children] loved snuggling with the baby bump and were so excited when they could feel the baby kicking. They would come up to me and rub my belly and say “Hi Baby, we love you””. Krystle

reminisces that explaining surrogacy to her children was a relatively easy thing to do, explaining that “mom is going to have a baby for another family who can’t” and being open and honest with her children from the very beginning of her surrogacy journey.

One of the best parts for Krystle’s boys was being able to meet “the Dads” in person, when they visited the first time for the 20 week ultrasound. She recalls how “they [the Dads] jumped right in and played game with them [the children] and even jumped on the trampoline with them. My kids loved them and it was an immediate connection for everyone.”

After their first journey, Krystle and “the Dads” decided to embark on a second, or sibling, journey together. Krystle’s boys and “the Dads’” were at this point forming their own bond, and would video chat with each other regularly. Krystle was able to take her family on a trip to Israel, and when “the Dads” come to Portland they do everything together as families. They are now on their third journey together, and the familial bond is even stronger than ever.

When talking about her journeys, Krystle says “I knew I would be changing someone else’s life when becoming a surrogate. However, I never thought my life would change so much. We have made life-long family members. To this day one of the most special moment sin my life was the moment  the Dads got to hold baby G for the first time. Their pure joy filled my heart in way I hand not thought possible.  We are now embarking on our third journey together to complete their family. I am so lucky and blessed to have been matched with them.”

You can follow along with Krystle’s third surrogacy journey on Instagram @familiesbuildingfamilies You can learn more about All Families Surrogacy at allfamiliessurrogacy.com.

LGBTQ2SIA+ Resource Guide

by ERIN BEERY

June is Pride Month and Portland is full of resources for LGBTQ2SIA+ families. Check out our list below.

All Families Surrogacy

Surrogacy services, founded by a member of the LGBT community. allfamiliessurrogacy.com

Brave Space

Creating community and facilitating access to expert providers and advocacy for transgender and non-binary children, youth, adults, and their families. bravespacellc.com

Bridging Voices

A youth chorus for gay, straight and questioning youth, ages 13-21. bridgingvoices.org

GLSEN Oregon

Advocacy, tools, connection, and support for LGBTQ issues in K-12 education. glsen.org/chapters/oregon

New Avenues for Youth

Resources include: 24/7 support services for youth ages 9-17. Art, music, virtual support groups and individual check ins, clothing closet, food pantry, pregnancy & parenting support. newavenues.org

PFLAG Portland

Uniting the LGBTQ community with families, friends, and allies. pflagpdx.org

The Q Center

The largest LGBTQ community center in the Pacific Northwest. pdxqcenter.org

Transgender Services Clinic at Legacy Health

Affirming health care for transgender and genderdiverse youth. legacyhealth.org/children/ health-services/transgender

TransActive Gender Project at Lewis & Clark

Services and expertise to empower transgender and gender expansive children, youth, and families. graduate.lclark.edu/programs/continuing_ education/transactive

Transgender Health Program OHSU

Affirming health care for transgender and gendernonconforming communities. ohsu.edu/xd/health/services/transgender-health

Erin Beery is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in serving adolescents, adults, and the queer community. Her therapy practice is based in NE Portland. You may also find her in local agencies and schools carrying out her consultation and advocacy work. erinbeery.wixsite.com/erinbeerylcsw

Interested in queering up your family’s experience?

Here are some easy tips!

Head downtown to the Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade on the weekend of July 15-16th. This year’s parade will be on Sunday the 16th at 11am. Check out Pride Northwest’s new website for more information. portlandpride.org

The University of Portland is proud to announce its second annual communitywide race, the Pilot Pride 5k! Join in running, jogging, or walking a 5K on UP’s campus on June 29th.Entry fee includes a free Nike T-Shirt and a full breakfast after the race. Kids 18 and under: $20, Adults: $40

Join the Portland Gay Men’s Chorus at The Schnitz for Disney Pride in Concert! Disney’s beloved catalog of songs has been reimagined in this amazing new show: Disney PRIDE In Concert, a musical celebration of LGBTQ life, love, family, and perseverance. June 24-25, pdxgmc.org/concerts-tickets

Head to Beaverton City Park on June 25th from 11am-6pm for the 6th annual Pride Beaverton 2023! The parade will begin at 11am. pridebeaverton.org

Get your skate on with Gay Skate at Oaks Park on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month (excluding some holidays) from 7-9:30pm! oakspark.com/roller-skating-rink

Browse Powell’s City of Books for an LGBTQ-themed scavenger hunt. Some family-friendly favorites: Julian is a Mermaid, A Family is a Family is a Family and This is our Rainbow.