PDX Parent February 2023

Time

Celebrate Valentine’s Day, Black History Month, Mardi Gras and Lunar New Year; check out new, kid-friendly shows; the Portland Winter Light Festival lights up the night (pictured above); and much more. RESOURCES

Big Wins for Families

If you haven’t been paying strict attention to the political goings-on in Salem and how several upcoming policies are going to have a big impact on our state’s families — don’t worry, we have. First up, the pandemic-delayed state paid parental leave policy is gearing up and parents of newborns will be able to take paid time off starting in September. (Additional situations also qualify for paid leave; read more on page 8.) While our federal leaders have not passed paid parental leave, at least Oregonians will be able to take the very necessary time off. That time at home with a brand new baby or adopted child is crucial, and I predict we’ll see lower rates of postpartum depression, higher rates of breastfeeding, healthier babies, and more mothers choosing to remain in the workforce after giving birth. In short, it’s going to be extremely beneficial for Oregon families. All from a few months where new parents are relieved of the stress of reduced income. Another new policy that will make a difference in the lives of many families  — a ban on preschool expulsions. In the past, neurodivergent and Black children have been more likely to be expelled from preschool and day care. And this of course means families have had to scramble to find a new preschool or child care provider. Sometimes families can’t and it can have significant financial consequences. Writer Shasta Kearns Moore details when the ban goes into effect and the new support that will be offered to child care providers to prevent suspensions and expulsions on page 10. And don’t miss our feature on page 22 about navigating your child’s mental health.

But it’s not all heavy topics in the issue. Portland is filled with family-friendly events in February. Check out our Time Out department for three pages of fun events for Valentine’s Day, Black History Month and more. So whether it’s because of upcoming inclusive preschool policies or Mardi Gras, there are plenty of reasons to celebrate!

for the long days and short years

PDX Parent P.O. Box 13660 Portland, OR 97213-0660

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ON OUR COVER

Thanks to Nicole Hart for this month’s adorable cover photo shot at her small, in-home studio. (While she mainly shoots outdoors or in clients’ homes, Hart also does Valentine’s and Christmas mini sessions in her studio.) Hart is a former television producer who made the switch to family photographer after having kids. “I always loved telling stories. And my grandfather was a news photographer, so I think it was just ingrained in me,” she says. “I was always that person who had a camera with me and I took photography classes in college. But like a lot of photographers, I really got started once my daughters were born.” See more of her beautiful work at nicolehartphotography.com or on Instagram @nhphotography.

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Although every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of published material, Northwest Parent, LLC., and its agents and employees cannot be held responsible for the use or misuse of any information contained herein. The contents of PDX Parent and its website are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional advice or treatment.

One of my favorite Valentine’s Day kid date outings — seeing a movie at the Academy Theater!

French International School of Oregon (formerly French American International School and Gilkey International Middle School) educates students from a global perspective and prepares them to engage with inclusivity, achieve with integrity, and excel with distinction. In a collaborative, inquirybased environment, students are empowered to be curious, think critically, challenge assumptions, and develop a love of learning. Inquire today!

“I saw what language did for my kids’ brains and how it helped them make connections, be open-minded, and be accepting of other cultures.”

We Recommend: Easy Valentine’s Treat Bling

Elevate treats for your kid’s classroom party this Valentine’s Day with edible, decorative Stickies from Make Bake. They are seriously easy and seriously cute. Not to mention, vegan, gluten free and allergy-friendly. They come in various designs, and have plenty of red and pink heart options for Valentine’s Day.

When our sample arrived, my kids were begging to try them. I didn’t have time to bake, so I grabbed some frosted cinnamon buns from Trader Joe’s and plastered the Stickies on there. Bam, instant Valentine’s rolls! But my kids insisted on tasting the stickers straight off the sheet, too. “Mmmm! … papery,” said my son, Cruz, without a hint of sarcasm. My daughter, Adela, described them as a cross between fondant and paper. But on frosting, the taste of the Stickies was not noticeable at all. Stickies can go on frosting, icing, chocolate melts, whip cream or any food with a bit of moisture that needs a blast of a next-level cuteness. Find them at letsmakebake.com. — Denise

Bookshelf: You’ve Got a Friend in Me

Castañon

Love comes in all different forms. Encourage your kiddo to appreciate the joys of BFFs with these fun reads on friendship. Kim Tano and Madeline Shier, the children’s book buyers at Powell’s City of Books pick four books all about being a good friend and sharing that special bond. Look for these titles at the Burnside, Hawthorne or Cedar Hills Powell’s locations, or order online at powells.com

My Friends, written and illustrated by Taro Gomi

This classic from Japanese writer/ illustrator Gomi (best known in the U.S. for the iconic and delightful Everyone Poops) is a first exploration of friendship in Gomi’s bright and exuberant style. This charming ode is ideal for the youngest readers (newborns to age 3)! $6.99.

The Rabbit Listened, written and illustrated by Cori Doerrfeld

When Taylor’s castle of blocks is destroyed, different animals each offer suggestions on how Taylor should deal with sad feelings: anger, fix it right away, laugh, get revenge. Rabbit arrives and sits close to Taylor with a simple quiet presence while giving their friend space and time to process feelings. Great for ages 3 and up. $17.99.

Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away by Meg Medina, illustrated by Sonia Sánchez

This moving picture book from Cuban-American author Medina and Spanish illustrator Sánchez is an ode to a beautiful friendship going through a difficult transition. Can Daniela and Evelyn’s friendship withstand distance and absence? The implication is yes, but more important is the celebration of their friendship and its growth and changes. Great for ages 5 and up. It’s also available in Spanish! $17.99.

Long Distance written and illustrated by Whitney Gardner

When Vega’s family moves from Portland to Seattle, Vega has to say goodbye to her best friend Halley and figure out how they can stay as close despite the distance. The move means everything is new and strange, but step by step, Vega makes new friends while maintaining her old ones in this charming graphic novel. Great for ages 10 and up. $14.99.

MAKE BAKE

MAKE BAKE

Ask Dr. Baynham

Q: I’m ready to stop changing diapers! But how do I know that my son is ready to embark on potty training?

A: A typical age range for potty training is 18 months to 3 years, so if you’re in that window and ready to start, the next step is to look for signs of readiness from your toddler. These can include hiding to poop, telling you when they have a dirty diaper, and wanting to watch you use the bathroom. Follow your child’s lead and provide lots of learning opportunities and praise. It’s very common for kids to show initial interest in the potty for a few weeks, then take a step back and want nothing to do with it. Try out these tips below for a successful journey.

If you think your child is ready, provide lots of learning opportunities. This includes reading books about the potty, teaching vocabulary around the potty, and letting them watch you in the bathroom to increase familiarity.

Some kids prefer their own potty chair and others prefer the insert onto the regular toilet seat. Getting a potty chair and keeping it next to their toys is a good start to ease them into the idea.

Reward every step towards using the potty. Praise your child for playing with the potty chair, sitting on the potty with clothes or just a diaper, and of course throw a parade if something happens while they’re sitting on the potty. Stamps, stickers, fruit snacks, chocolate chips — whatever works!

Common setbacks include constipation and being pushed too soon. Again, let your toddler lead the way and expect ups, downs and lots of accidents. If you’re worried your child may be constipated or withholding bowel movements, talk with your pediatrician about how to get back on track. Negative associations with using the potty can lead to a multitude of problems down the road, so keep it good vibes only and go with the flow.

Pediatrician, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Fellow in the American Academy of Pediatrics and mom of two, Allison Baynham, M.D., knows what it takes to raise healthy, resilient children. Come bond, share your struggles and team with her for great care at Metropolitan Pediatrics in Tigard.

In the Know: The Power of Paid Leave

This year, Oregon is joining approximately 12 states in offering a much-heralded paid leave program. Paid Leave Oregon, which was approved by lawmakers in 2019 — but delayed because of the pandemic — will provide up to 12 weeks of paid time off to employees. The program covers paid leave in three categories: after the birth or adoption of a child (including for non-birthing partners); serious illness or injury, including taking care of a seriously ill or injured family member; and for survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault. Plus, according to the state, people who are pregnant and have given birth, or have birth-related health issues, may be able to take 14 weeks of paid leave. In short, it’s great news for everyone who could use some (paid) time to adjust after a major life event.

Last month, the state began collecting money from larger businesses and workers for the program. While funds for Paid Leave Oregon are already rolling in, Oregonians won’t officially be able to take paid time

off until this September.

Virtually all employees are covered under Paid Leave Oregon. This also includes self-employed business owners, contractors and tribal members. The new program fills a critical gap for families, particularly low-wage workers who often don’t receive paid time off. For more information, visit paidleave.oregon.gov. — Tiffany Hill

Preschool Expulsions Expelled

It felt very sudden.

One day in 2009, Paul Lakin showed up to his child’s day care near Northeast Glisan Street and 60th Avenue and was told not to come back. Though the Lakins had taken their first child (who uses they/ them pronouns) there from the age of 8 weeks up to age 3, they sometimes got violent and the staff at the small, homebased center didn’t know what to do.

“That’s our oldest, so we really didn’t know what to do either,” mom Rinny Lakin says. “We thought that they were the professionals and they would know what to do.”

The Lakins’ experience may soon be a thing of the past as Oregon gears up to ban expulsions and suspensions in day cares and preschools by 2026. The new Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program (SEPP) in the soonto-be-created Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care has the next

BY SHASTA KEARNS MOORE

three years to provide supports, trainings and services to ensure a smooth transition. SEPP is expecting to start a formal study in 2023, gathering data from requests for help through the program and other sources, to try to find best practices. They will be looking for data and case studies where tough things came up and the child stayed in the program, or other success stories.

The program came about after years of research on the frequency and negative impacts of these early exclusions. A July 2022 Portland State

University report found that parents were often given euphemisms for why their toddler was asked to leave, including that they were not a “good fit” or had a “hard time transitioning.” Parents say the reasons can range from an inability to sit still to hitting or biting and that they felt they had few solutions.

After the Lakins were asked to leave the first day care, they tried to find another provider, but it seemed the cat was out of the bag. They couldn’t find anyone willing to take a small child with unexpected and challenging behavior.

The family’s inability to find suitable child care for their two young children, both of whom would eventually be diagnosed with autism, resulted in long-term economic impacts. Paul Lakin has worked odd jobs here and there, but during the last 13 years has mostly needed to be a stayat-home dad. Without a second income, the family had to scrape by and move back in with family at times.

“It was very difficult,” Paul says. And now, Rinny points out, with more than a decade gap in his resume, it will remain tough for her husband to reenter the workforce.

The Lakins say they wish things had turned out differently. “You have to give tools to the people who are working with these children so that they can stay there safely,” Rinny, who works as a library clerk, says. “I think they need more training.”

An early childhood support system

Professional Learning System Director Jon Reeves is leading the state’s team developing these solutions. “This is an opportunity to create a support system,” says Reeves. The team's vision is a program where everyone works together to support the child and where child care workers can request help at the first sign of trouble — rather than when they are ready to kick a child out of their program.

Time will tell if Reeves’ team is successful. The 12 state staffers on the team are still sketching out the exact parameters of the program, which will have components like conducting scientific research, convening rulemaking committees, contracting with community-based partners and developing training materials. The proposed budget for the program is a little more than $11 million, but it will need to be finalized by the legislature for the 2023-2025 biennium.

Find out about the changes coming to Oregon’s day cares and preschools, and the support and services that will be offered to providers.

The team's vision is a program where everyone works together to support the child and where child care workers can request help at the first sign of trouble — rather than when they are ready to kick a child out of their program.

Probably the biggest new support will be what are currently called Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultants. (Reeves notes that community-based partners may rename this role to be less of a mouthful.) These are the type of mental health counselors for very young children that already exist at places like Multnomah County’s Morrison Children’s Center or county behavioral health systems.

Under the new program, the state will contract with existing behavioral health organizations to deliver the new supports. The idea there is to make sure to have skilled professionals who also know the environment, culture and community where they work.

One of the program’s primary goals is to reduce the number of Black and Brown children who are expelled or suspended from preschools and day cares. National data shows that Black preschoolers are 3.6 times more likely to receive out-of-school suspensions than white preschoolers. (Oregon data is currently unavailable.) The state hopes that by contracting with a variety of local groups, they can get culturally competent coaches in different locations around the state.

“We’re trying to ensure that the consultants are representative of the communities,” says Reeves.

He also stressed that the supports will not be purely “mental health” but a range of interventions and environmental modification options to support each unique situation.

“It’s more about child development and good environmental practices than about mental health therapy,” he adds. “This is a multidisciplinary approach.”

Transition plans will still be an option

Before the ban on suspensions and expulsions goes into effect, the state plans to conduct three years of training and support to the state’s early childhood care providers. This includes what Reeves calls “deep engagement” with 370 providers through the use of early childhood mental health consultants as well as a “warmline” phone consultation service. Suspensions and expulsions will still be allowed prior to 2026, but the licensed child care center will be required to access the help before doing so.

The supports are still taking shape but — in addition to the warmline and consultants — could include referrals; training materials; and even transition planning if the parties mutually agree that a different placement would be more appropriate. (Currently, the state is still coming up with a framework for when families and providers do not agree.)

“The idea behind a transition plan is that the transition decision is made collaboratively, with the support of technical assistance consultants, and that the process is facilitated in a manner that meets the needs of the child, family, and provider,” said Oregon Department of Education spokesperson Marion Suitor Barnes in a statement.

Suitor Barnes also said that the program is interested in hearing from the community on the coming changes. Between January and June, there will be opportunities for parents to be on advisory committees and submit testimony on different aspects of the program. Trauma Informed Oregon, a group from Portland State University (PSU), will select the advisory committee members. (To hear about these opportunities, sign up for the newsletter at OregonEarlyLearning.com.)

Program to focus on racial and cultural equity

Research from PSU is informing the new model and its goals.

A January 2022 report from the university gave nine recommendations for how to center racial justice in the creation of the program. These included hiring Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) consultants; implementing implicitbias training; and ensuring that caseloads were light enough to spend the needed time in the classroom.

Likewise, a July 2022 report compiled the experiences and recommendations of 15 Oregon families whose young children had been asked to leave care. The researchers’ key findings echoed the experience of the Lakins, including that families were often taken by surprise by the request to leave and that most children were between the ages of 2 and 3 when expelled. In contrast to the Lakins, all 15 of the families in the PSU study were eventually able to find care at a different center that could accommodate their children’s needs. However, the onus of finding alternative care was on the parents, who described numerous barriers.

Reeves says he wants to create environments where everyone is working together for the benefit of the child and where there is support for families to find alternatives if a setting isn’t working out. But Reeves also says he’s not sure who would be liable if a child injured another kid or a staffer under the new program. He hoped the new supports would avoid such outcomes. “In no version of this do we want people to feel like they need to be put in harm’s way,” he says.

“We need multiple strategies,” Reeves adds: “What we don’t want to happen is that families are just left on their own — because that’s what we have right now.”

What about children who are NEVER ACCEPTED to preschool or day care?

During research for this article, several parents told PDX Parent that their disabled child was never accepted into a day care or preschool in the first place. Oregon’s new suspension and expulsion rules would not apply to them.

However, a child care business refusing service to a child based on their disability is technically already illegal under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The 1990 federal law says that any privately run child care center cannot exclude children with disabilities from their program, unless the child is considered a “direct threat” to the health and safety of others, or their needs would require a “fundamental alteration” of the program.

“Now, clearly the practice may still be occurring,” acknowledges Oregon Department of Education spokesperson Marion Suitor Barnes, “which speaks to the need for additional training and technical assistance for early care and education providers to ensure they have the confidence and competence to meet the needs of any child who comes to their door.”

ODE Professional Learning System Director Jon Reeves says he hopes the Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program will provide those tools to early educators so that they feel more confident in accepting all the kids seeking care.

For example, each evaluation has to be individualized. Providers can’t just say, for example, “Oh no, we had a child with autism one time and it was really rough,” Reeves says.

In the first round of rulemaking, Oregon’s Early Learning Council defined exclusionary practices. Reeves says part of the coming trainings for child care providers will include notifications that trial periods, a cap on the number of disabled children that can be enrolled, and toilet-training requirements are exclusionary practices and therefore prohibited.

“The hard part of the rub is that child care providers have opened a private business and they would like to operate their business with autonomy,” Reeves says. But along with those businesses come requirements to adhere to licensing regulations and civil rights laws. “We need to educate people to understand that your business has to adhere to those, and (providers can) make it very accessible and accommodate children that have that need,” he says.

There are additional funds available in Oregon’s Employment-Related Day Care program for high-needs children so that providers can potentially hire additional help if the family qualifies for that program. Inclusive Partners, which has moved to be part of the new Department of Early Learning and Care, has more information on that funding.

Shasta Kearns Moore is a Portlandarea freelance journalist and author of MedicalMotherhood.com, a weekly Sunday column and news roundup for those raising disabled children.

800 NW 107th Ave

Portland, OR 97229

wowandfluttervilleplaygardens.com

wowandfluttervilleplaygarden@gmail.com

503-352-4983

Wow and Flutterville

We believe in a child's right to play, to be curious learners and in their ability to experience wonder individually and as members of a community. Play is the gateway to all learning. From infants to preschoolers, we are child-led and our children play as a form of creative expression. Our children experience a sense of agency, wonder and belonging on a daily basis. Inspiration comes from nature, the living arts and a deep sense of belonging and respect.

MICHA-EL SCHOOL

13515A SE Rusk Rd

Milwaukie, OR 97222

Micha-elschool.org

michaelschooloffice@gmail.com

503-882-3322

Micha-el School

Micha-el School’s early childhood program is open to students who are 3.5 - 6 years old. The Waldorf PreSchool offers rhythmic activities in an atmosphere of beauty, warmth and harmony to nourish students’ blossoming, creative thinking upon which all future abstract thoughts are built. Fostering Imaginative play in the classroom and in nature!

13505 SE River Road

Portland, OR 97222

rosevilla.org/preschool preschool@rosevilla.org

503-607-7000

Rosebud Preschool

Rosebud Preschool is Portland’s only Reggioinspired intergenerational preschool located within Rose Villa Senior Living’s expansive 22-acre campus.

Rosebud Preschool combines the colorful, creative, child-centered approach of Reggio education with meaningful programming that includes Rose Villa residents to create opportunities for intergenerational learning.

We offer:

• Small class size

• Integrated community of children, families, and elders

• Warm, nurturing learning environment

• Support for all areas of development

• Play-based, hands-on learning

• Emphasis on creative expression

westhills-montessori.com

West Hills Montessori

For 54 years, West Hills Montessori School has provided exceptional learning experiences to Portland area children and families.

Each West Hills classroom is staffed with AMI-certified teachers who are dedicated to serving the social, emotional, and intellectual needs of children ages 15 months to 12 years:

• serving the needs of the whole child within a culture of respect

• encouraging each child to follow their own paths of interest

• challenging every student to achieve their full potential

• nurturing the magical joy and curiosity of childhood

We’re honored to have earned your respect over the years, and delighted to continue providing the learning experiences upon which lifelong success is built.

We welcome your application.

4817 SW 53rd Ave.

Portland, OR 97221

pdxmc.org

503-972-7100

Portland Montessori Collaborative

A Montessori community for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and their families in the Bridlemile neighborhood of SW Portland. Founded in the spirit of environmental sustainability, we serve locally-sourced, organic home cooked snacks and meals, use cloth diapers, and educate for social justice, peace and ecological intelligence.

Our mission is to provide a loving and nurturing space for children to explore, grow, learn, and connect with other children and adults in the context of the Montessori philosophy and pedagogy. We offer an adaptive approach to early childhood education, an authentic Montessori program inspired by the schools of Reggio Emilia and moved by the philosophy and teachings of Magda Gerber.

6651 SW Capitol Hwy. Portland, OR 97219

pjaproud.org

(503) 244-0126

Portland Jewish Academy

In PJA's preschool, your child will be a member of an inclusive, engaged community.

Your child will learn Jewish values and explore and learn through play, and hands-on activities.

Full and half-day options available. Open to everyone.

2305 S Water Ave Portland, OR 97201

Intlschool.org | admissions@intlschool.org

503-226-2496

Embrace the World

Since 1990, the International School of Portland has offered full language and cultural immersion in a warm, loving environment that encourages curiosity and kindness.

• One of only two schools in the United States to provide three full language immersion programs under one roof.

• Home to the longest-running Chinese immersion program in the Pacific Northwest.

• Only program in the USA to offer Japanese immersion combined with IB PYP.

• Dynamic English program

We are proud to be an International Baccalaureate World School!

14750 SE Clinton St. Portland, OR 97236 fmes.org

503-760-8220

Franciscan Montessori Earth School

We offer a remarkably different education for children aged 2.5 to 14 years on 10 picturesque acres. Students are empowered to become confident, self motivated learners for life.

- Montessori curriculum

- Small class size

- Before and after care

- Foreign Language programs

- Gardening program

- On campus extracurricular activities

- CYO sanctioned sports program

Schedule a virtual or in-person tour of campus!

4114 N Vancouver Ave

Portland,

OR, 97217

wowandfluttervilleplaygardens.com

wowandfluttervilleplaygarden@gmail.com

503-954-2255

Wow and Flutterville

We believe in a child's right to play, to be curious learners and in their ability to experience wonder individually and as members of a community. Play is the gateway to all learning. From infants to preschoolers, we are child-led and our children play as a form of creative expression. Our children experience a sense of agency, wonder and belonging on a daily basis. Inspiration comes from nature, the living arts and a deep sense of belonging and respect.

205 NE 50th Ave

Portland, OR 97203

portlandmontessori.org

info@portlandmontessori.org

503-688-2992

The Portland Montessori School

Founded in 1962, The Portland Montessori School has a history of supporting each child individually, to prepare them in making a difference in their world. Our experienced staff work with children ages 15 months to 12 years-old to develop a lifelong love of learning and independence across classrooms and 1.5 acres of outdoor space. Visit our website for more information.

2828 SE Stephens Street

Portland, OR 97214

Hawthornefamilyplayschool.org

susan@hawthornefamilyplayschool.org

503-313-7628

Hawthorne Family Playschool

LEARNING PLAYFULLY

Fostering joy, curiosity, creativity, connections, self-awareness, cooperation, critical thinking, nature enthusiasts and more!

BUILDING COMMUNITY

Loving, experienced, passionate teachers partner with families in a hybrid co-op model.

PROMOTING EQUITY

Nurturing relationships, problemsolving, appreciations of similarities and differences, and identities as change-makers.

11640 SW BOONES FERRY RD

Portland, OR 97219

willowcreekforestschool.org

hiserhott@gmail.com

503-607-3017

Willow Creek Forest School

Willow Creek Forest School is an outdoor, place-based kindergarten for children ages 3-5 in SW Portland. The school runs for nine months, from September to June, Tuesday through Friday from 9:30am1:30pm, with an option to add aftercare each day until 3pm. The rhythms of the land guide each day and inspire our curriculum, stories and songs.

3030 SW 2nd Ave.

Portland, OR 97201

cedarwoodschool.org

admissions@cedarwoodschool.org

(503) 245-1477

Cedarwood Waldorf School

The most common response we get from parents visiting our early childhood program for the first time is, “I wish I could have gone to school here!” Our pre-k and kindergarten programs feel like home. And for little ones venturing outside of their family for the first time, this warm and protective environment is just what they need to build the confidence and strength to immerse themselves in the work of early childhood: play. Cedarwood has been supporting the developmental growth of children in preschool and kindergarten just minutes from downtown Portland since 1997.

Think Globally. Learn Deeply. Act Passionately.

Montessori School of Beaverton

Nurturing children from 3 to 12 years with Montessori education.

msb.org

A Place Where Young Minds and Hearts Blossom. Now Enrolling!

• From infancy through kindergarten, building self-confidence, strong academic foundations and a lifetime love of learning.

• An integrative, balanced approach to child development utilizing a variety of proven educational philosophies.

• Inspiring mindfulness, an evidence-based technique to practice peaceful problem solving and critical thinking.

• Experienced educators with a holistic approach to help each child blossom.

• Safe, engaging learning environments with thoughtfully designed areas for collaborative learning and play.

Beyond the Blues

Don’t give up. That’s Holly Reid’s* simple but sage advice to parents and caregivers wading through their children’s mental health challenges. Reid is a single-by-choice mom to twins, age 13. Her son was diagnosed with inattentive attentiondeficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and dyslexia at 9 years old, while her daughter was diagnosed with anxiety, also at age 9. “Concerns about my son started in first grade,” says Reid. “And it was an ongoing process identifying what the underlying issues were.” She says her twins’ pediatrician was originally dismissive of her son’s symptoms. She encountered long wait times for referrals and has spent countless hours researching, making appointments, adjusting their lifestyle and advocating for appropriate help for her son and daughter.

It’s easy to know if your kid is sick: a fever, that tell-tale cough, a constant runny nose. But it can often be trickier to identify if your child is experiencing mental health issues, and if so, what might be happening. One out of six children and youth in the U.S. (16.67%) has a diagnosable mental health

Youth mental health concerns are at an all-time high, an aftereffect of COVID. But local support is out there. Here’s how to help your child navigate their mental well-being.

BY TIFFANY HILL

condition, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Youth are most commonly affected by depression and anxiety, but this also includes ADHD, substance abuse, eating disorders and learning disabilities. And predictably, COVID only magnified mental health concerns. In 2022, the KIDS COUNT National Report cited that 1.5 million more children are struggling with their mental health. And here in Oregon, 16% of youth, or 117,000 children, experienced depression or anxiety in the first year of the pandemic, an increase of 5.1%. That’s higher than the national average of 11.8% of children experiencing mental health concerns.

But as Reid’s family can attest, these thoughts, feelings and behaviors don’t usually resolve on their own. “Lockdown was hard for everyone, but it interrupted critical developmental stages in kids’ lives,” she says. “There shouldn’t be any stigma in getting kids the support they need as we emerge from the pandemic.”

While it can be a long journey on the road to healing, help is available: in person, throughout the community — including in schools — and online. Here’s what to look out for, how to be there for your child, and most importantly, where to find help.

What to Watch For

It’s one of every parent’s worst nightmares: suspecting your child is hurting, but not sure exactly from what or why. Poor mental health can not only affect kids, tweens and teens physically, but also negatively impact their ability to learn and succeed in school and influence their decision making. Untreated mental health issues can also lead to other risks for youth, including increased drug use, riskier sexual behaviors and violence.

Heather Adams, the director of pediatric psychiatry consult liaison services at Randall Children’s Hospital, says the Legacy hospital system throughout the Portland-area has not only witnessed an increase in the number of youth coming in, but also a shift in mental health concerns. She says there are now more youth coming through the emergency department for depression and anxiety. “COVID really changed the way that people connect to the community,” says Adams. “Remove that support and intervention through school, you also remove mental health intervention. Just because schools opened back up, doesn’t mean they just picked up where they should have picked up.”

To try and prevent a situation where your child is in crisis, and needing emergency care, Adams says one of the best first steps is the most straightforward: Have a conservation with your child. “Listen to them and see what they need,” she says.

“Parents tend to go into ‘fix it’ mode when they see their child struggling — it’s understandable — but the first step to coming up with a solution together is first by listening,” adds Hannah Acock, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) at Metropolitan Pediatrics.

Both Adams and Acock recommend observing and discussing with your child, and their pediatrician, any changes in your child’s emotions, actions and behaviors. (See sidebar to the right for more information on how to help identify a possible mental health concern.) This can be anything from physical changes like trouble sleeping or overeating, to behavioral shifts such as sudden outbursts, increased irritability or sadness, or withdrawing from friends and activities.

Adams says most of the patients coming into the Legacy hospital system are teenagers, followed by older middle-school-aged kids. At Metropolitan Pediatrics, which has six locations throughout the Portland area, Acock says their clinics are also seeing more female patients in need of mental health care, compared to their male peers. This aligns with national

statistics. According to the CDC, in 2021, 57% of female youth reported experiencing prolonged feelings of hopelessness and sadness, while only 31% of male youth did. (Even more alarming, 63% of female youth experienced emotional abuse by a parent or caregiver during COVID-19, compared to 47% of male youth.)

“We are hopeful that regular screenings and continued conversation about the gender gap in mental health treatment will encourage and normalize male and other gender populations in receiving mental health care,” says Acock.

What to Do

Early diagnosis coupled with the appropriate treatment plan can make a huge difference in the lives of children experiencing mental health concerns (as well as impacting everyone in the household caused by any changes or disruptions).

Adams says to look to your community at the first possible sign of a change in your child’s mental well-being. This includes making an appointment for your child with their pediatrician, meeting with their teachers and the school counselor, and researching therapy options and making appointments. This can create a significant headway in avoiding an urgent visit to the ER. (See page 24 for Portland-area organizations that provide ongoing youth mental health support.)

At Metropolitan Pediatrics, Acock says all clinics have at least one behavioral health clinician, who offers same-day, crisis intervention, as well as therapy for patients, including those on waitlists to meet with therapists. She says all patients 11 years and older also receive specialized screenings for depression and anxiety. There are also screenings for suicidal ideation and suicidal behaviors.

“About 30% of all of our visits involve some type of mental health diagnosis, whether this is a preventative-care visit or a problem-focused visit,” she says. “This has definitely increased over the past few years, especially with the pandemic. The other thing that has significantly changed is the level of stress and mental health challenges that the parents are reporting.”

Helping Identify the Problem

How do you know if your child might be struggling emotionally and mentally? Here are some key changes to look out for:

Changes in thinking. Trouble concentrating; changes in their performance at school; frequently saying negative things or having negative thoughts about themselves.

Changes in feelings. Reacting bigger or differently than the situation calls for; unhappiness, worry, irritability or anger; or feeling helpless or hopeless.

Changes in behavior. Showing little interest or withdrawing from activities — or friends — they normally enjoy; wanting to be alone more often; sudden outbursts of anger or tears; or less energetic than normal.

Physical changes. Trouble sleeping; eating too much or too little; nervous habits such as thumb sucking, nail biting or hair twisting; headaches, stomachaches, or general aches and pains.

Source: Canadian Pediatric Society

Like many of Acock’s patients, Reid’s children also suffered mental health setbacks during the pandemic. Both twins met with therapists online during the pandemic, and Reid’s son is continuing with therapy in person. “I am a big believer in therapy,” she says. “It has made a big difference in my life, and I feel strongly in getting my kids the support they need when they need it.”

During lockdown, Reid’s son experienced rapid cycling laughing until crying that he couldn’t control. He also later had an eating disorder in which he hoarded and over-ate in the middle of the night. “Our pediatrician was pretty dismissive of my concerns at the time. When I contacted the behavioral health practice connected to our pediatric practice where my son had been seen previously, they had an eight month waitlist to be seen, but gave me the names of other practices where the waiting list was shorter.” She says constant vigilance, communication and advocacy got her son the help she knew he needed. “Push for help, and do not stop advocating for your kid’s needs when you encounter obstacles or those who are dismissive of their concerns. You know your child best.”

Resources to the Rescue

When your family is in the throes of a crisis, it can be understandably hard to think straight. Here are local and national resources to help your child get appropriate treatment.

Oregon Crisis Contacts

• Oregon Youth Line: 1-877-968-8491; text: teen2teen to 839863

• Oregon Suicide LifeLine: 1-800-273-8255; text: 988

• Crisis Resolution Center for Oregon: 1-541-474-5360

National Resources

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800-343-6264 or nami.org

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: samhsa.gov

Oregon and Portland Organizations

These local organizations offer pediatric crisis support, residential treatment and outpatient services and programs:

• Safe Oregon: safeoregon.com

• Lines for Life: linesforlife.org

• Youth Era: youthera.org

• Trillium Family Services: trilliumfamily.org

• Morrison Child & Family Services: morrisonkids.org

• Albertina Kerr: albertinakerr.org

Where to Find Treatment

These national resources can help in the search to find the right therapist for your child.

• American Psychological Association psychologist locator: locator.apa.org

• American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry psychiatrist locator: aacap.org

• Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies therapist locator: abct.org/get-help

How to Nurture Your Child ’ s Mental Health

Just as you nurture your children physically by making healthy meals, encouraging regular exercise and staying on top of annual wellness checks, parents can equally support good mental health. Adams says a great first step is creating a positive and safe home environment, and listening to, and respecting, their feelings.

Acock also recommends that parents identify trusted adults in their child’s life. For example, school counselors. “It can also be helpful to have the child meet the school counselor early on so that when they need support, rapport is established,” she says.

Spend time together as a family perusing websites, listening to podcasts, watching YouTube channels or reading books — memoirs are great reads that engage kids — that discuss mental health in a positive way.

For Reid’s twins, it was about ensuring they got the care they needed, not only including regular therapy and appointments with their pediatrician, but by also establishing and maintaining healthy habits. She enrolled her son into regular, specialized tutoring. To help with his disordered eating, Reid says she started stocking the kitchen with healthier snacks. And when her daughter’s anxiety flared, she got a weighted blanket, a sound machine, ashwagandha tea and fidget jewelry to help ease the anxiety, and help her sleep better. Reid says she also has taken online courses which gave her tangible strategies for her children.

She says what’s most important is to approach mental health without shame. “We talk about mental health in the same ways we talk about physical health,” says Reid. “There is no shame in needing support.”

Tiffany Hill is the managing editor of PDX Parent. One of her favorite parts about her job is talking with families and organizations working to make a difference in our community.

SUMMER CAMPS SUMMER CAMPS

Summer may seem a long way off, but it is getting to be prime time to book summer camps for your kids . Portland has a fabulous array of fun camps. Here’s a sneak peek at some offerings. And don’t miss our massive Summer Camps Guide in our upcoming March issue with a robust list of summer camps in the metro area.

OMSI SUMMER CAMPS AND CLASSES

Website:

OMSI.EDU/CAMPS-CLASSES

Camp Phone: 503-797-4661

Early Bird Discount Offered: REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

OMSI Membership Discount: 10%

Cost: $415-$1,000

Dates:

DAY CAMPS: JUNE 19-SEPTEMBER 1, OVERNIGHT CAMPS: JUNE 26-AUGUST 25

Ages: 5-18

Registration Deadline: OPEN UNTIL FULL. (THEY FILL FAST!)

Location:

PORTLAND, OR / FOSSIL, OR / NEWPORT, OR/ AND MORE!

Before/After Care: NO

Financial Aid/Scholarship Available: YES

Camp Type/Theme: STEAM, DAY AND OVERNIGHT PROGRAMS

Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: DAY CAMPS 1-10, OVERNIGHT CAMPS 1-8

SUMMER CAMPS SUMMER CAMPS

≈≈≈≈PDX PARENT≈≈≈≈ ≈≈≈≈PDX PARENT≈≈≈≈ SNEAK peek

What's the best part of building rockets, directing movies, exploring the seashore or stars in the sky? Finding friends along the way! OMSI Camps and Classes are unforgettable experiences, with overnight camps for grades 2-12 and day camps for grades K-8. At OMSI's overnight camps, you can choose coastal adventures or desert adventures! Explore tide pools on the coast or search for fossils in Eastern Oregon. OMSI's day camps in Portland feature chemistry, coding, dinosaurs, drones, space, LEGO and more!

WHY KIDS ♥

Search for fossils, canoe Oregon’s coast, program drones or LEGO® robots, explore creatures of air, land and pond, and so much more, all while sharing the adventure with friends!

WHY PARENTS ♥

Let your kids build, invent, create, design, program, engineer and explore this summer! OMSI offers a broad array of STEAM activities unlike anywhere else to spark curiosity and inspire your kids’ love of science, technology, engineering, art, and math.

ART WORLD SCHOOL

Students ages 4 and up can attend half day or full day camp options, with early care available. Different weekly themes with different drawing/painting, clay, arts & crafts, calligraphy, sculpture, architecture and mixed media projects daily. Flexible enrollment options.

Website: ARTWORLDSCHOOL.COM

Early Bird Discount Offered: 5%

Registration Deadline: 4/15/23 FOR EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT

Cost: STARTING AT $65

Dates: 6/20/23-9/8/23

Ages: 4-14

Location: NW PORTLAND/BEAVERTON/ BETHANY AREA

SPOTLIGHT MUSICAL THEATRE SUMMER CAMP INTENSIVES

Website: SPOTLIGHTMUSICAL THEATRE.COM

Early Bird Discount

Offered: YES

Cost: $235 - $540

Dates: 6 CAMPS, JULY 24-AUGUST 11

Ages: 5-18

Location: WEST LINN LUTHERAN CHURCH GOO.GL/MAPS/ QWFP8UV846YVTURN9

Spotlight Musical Theatre Academy offers skill-based musical theatre training for youth. Summer intensives provide all cast members opportunities for broadening their musical theatre skills.

~A Chorus Line (14-18y)

~The Wizard of Oz (10-14y)

~101 Dalmatians (8-10y)

~Musical Theatre FUN! (5-7y)

TRYON FOREST ADVENTURES

Let's Get Outside! Tryon Forest Adventures offers your child time to grow, learn and have fun in the forest. Each nature camp day incorporates activities like hiking, observation, and fort building, in addition to stories, art, and science projects.

Website: TRYONFRIENDS.ORG/ FOREST-ADVENTURES

Cost: $425

Dates: MONDAY- THURSDAYS

SPRING SESSION MARCH 27-30, SUMMER SESSIONS START JUNE 19

Ages: 6-12

Location: TRYON CREEK STATE NATURAL AREA

BIG LAKE YOUTH CAMP

Website: BIGLAKE.ORG

Registration Deadline: TWO WEEKS BEFORE DATE OF CAMP

Early Bird Discount: YES

Cost: COST DEPENDENT SESSION CHOSEN

Dates: JUNE 20-AUGUST 11

Ages: 7-17

Location: SISTERS, OREGON

What is the Big Lake difference? We believe it is a combination of two things: an incredible camp setting located in Central Oregon's Cascades and a first-rate staff dedicated to building relationships and fostering personal growth. Registration opens February 5.

TRACKERS EARTH

Address:

4617 SE MILWAUKIE AVE PORTLAND, OREGON

Website:

TRACKERSPDX.COM/YOUTH/CAMPS/ SUMMER-CAMP

Camp Phone: 503-345-3312

Early Bird Discount Offered: $50 OFF ALL CAMPS (ENDS FEB 24)

Cost: $425

Dates: JUNE 19 - SEPTEMBER 1, 2023

Ages: 4 - GRADE 12

Registration Deadline: REGISTRATION IS OPEN THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER

Location: DAY CAMPS: SE, NE OR W PORTLAND / OVERNIGHT: SANDY, OR

Before/After Care: YES

Camp Type/Theme: OUTDOOR ADVENTURE, ART, OVERNIGHT

Counselor-to-Camper Ratio: 1 GUIDE FOR EVERY 6-10 CAMPERS

SUMMER CAMPS SUMMER CAMPS

Trackers Earth award-winning summer camps teach real skills with fantastic adventure. Kids connect with friends while learning with expert teachers and guides.

Choose From Onsite & Transported Options!

Trackers Basecamps are onsite at our drop-off location. In the morning, attend classes in fantastic skills. In the afternoon, play + move in Trackers Games.

Trackers Adventures transport to epic places. Train wilderness survival & archery. Connect with farm animals & folk craft. Go boating & fishing. Share outdoor skills in role-playing stories.

WHY KIDS ♥

Kids love our epic themes, real skills, and immersive stories. They make friends and discover a connection with nature that lasts a lifetime.

WHY PARENTS ♥

PDX PARENT≈≈≈≈ SNEAK peek

PDX PARENT≈≈≈≈

Parents love our flexible Pre/After Camp options, convenient locations, and variety of camp options. Our expert Guides lead safe adventures where each child can play and learn new skills while connecting with others.

TRY EVERYTHING & ROCK BAND CAMP

Sign up now for Early Bird pricing for Backbeat Music Academy’s summer camps! We have Try Everything, Rock Band, Write Music For Computer Games, Music Production and more. Full day and half day camps, and options for ages 5-18.

Website BACKBEATMUSICACADEMY.

OPUS1.IO/W/ PDXPARENTSUMMERCAMPS

Early Bird Discount 10% WITH CODE PDXPARENT

Registration Deadline ROLLING

Cost

$175-$399

Dates

ALL SUMMER Ages OPTIONS FOR KIDS 5-18

Location BEAVERTON

VIBE OF PORTLAND ART AND MUSIC SUMMER CAMPS

Vibe’s Summer Camps combine creativity with fun! Exploring, making, imaginingchildren experiment and play with a variety of mediums to foster creative thinking and problemsolving. Vibe’s 10 weeks of camps offer many focuses, with options for ages 5 and up.

NORTHWEST CHILDREN'S THEATER SUMMER CAMP

Website NWCTS.ORG/2023SUMMER-CAMP

Registration Deadline ONGOING BUT CAMPS FILL QUICKLY

Cost

$210 - $840, SCHOLARSHIPS

AVAILABLE

Dates

JUNE 19 - AUGUST 25

Ages 4 - 14

Multiple Locations

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!

CAMP MAGRUDER

Website VIBEPDX.ORG

Early Bird Discount YES

Registration Deadline

JUNE 19

Cost

$235 - $342

Dates

JUNE 19 - AUGUST 25

Ages 5 +

Multiple Locations

VIBEPDX.ORG/ART-CAMPS

Website CAMPMAGRUDER.ORG

Early Bird Discount YES, REGISTER BY MAY 5 FOR $25 OFF!

Registration Deadline

UNTIL FULL Cost

$363-$796

Dates

JUNE 25-30, JULY 4-7, JULY 10-14, AUGUST 6-11

Ages 6-18

Location ROCKAWAY BEACH, OREGON

A faith-based camp building communities that bridge ethnicity, sexuality, gender, background and generation on the Oregon Coast. Programs for youth, families, LGBTQ+, and special needs. Swimming, boating, archery, wave-jumping and inspiring natural beauty in this exciting, nurturing space.

SKYHAWKS SPORTS ACADEMY

Website: SKYHAWKS.COM

Dates: JUNE-AUGUST

Ages: 4-14

Location: OREGON & SW WASHINGTON

Camp Type: SPORTS, STEM SPORTS

PEDALHEADS

Website: PEDALHEADS.COM

Dates: JUNE-AUGUST

Registration OPENS FEBRUARY 28

Cost $160-$570 PER WEEK

Ages: 2-12

Location:

MULTIPLE LOCATIONSPEDALHEADS.COM/OREGON

Camp Type: BIKE CAMP

WHY KIDS ♥

We make improving sports skills and learning life lessons FUN with our action packed camp curriculum. Our coaches are active, engaged and focused on every participant having a great time.

WHY PARENTS ♥

We teach Respect, Teamwork, Inclusion, Leadership and Sportsmanship as life lessons in each camp. Parents love that we focus on competition and teamwork in a way that allows all kids to flourish to the best of their abilities.

Pedalheads is a learn-toride bike camp for kids 2-12. Best known for taking kids from training wheels to two wheels in addition to road and trail riding. We combine a fun group setting with tailored cycling lessons, and incredible instructors to build confidence for even the most tentative of kids.

WHY KIDS ♥

Kids love the fun at camp and the bonds made with their instructors. They also love sharing the new skills they have learnt with their family.

WHY PARENTS ♥

Parents love the confidence built in their children and the life skills gained. The class sizes are much smaller than a typical summer day camp.

SOCCER SHOTS

Soccer Shots camps utilizes creative and imaginative games to focus on individual skill, fitness and sportsmanship. We also highlight positive character traits each day, such as respect, teamwork and appreciation.

PAM CUT SUMMER CAMPS

Website: SOCCERSHOTS.COM/PDX

Registration Deadline: BEFORE START DATE

Cost: $99-199

Dates: ALL SUMMER

Ages: 3-8

Location: PORTLAND METRO AREA

WTFUN PRESENTS: SUMMER COMEDY CAMP FROM KICKSTAND COMEDY

Laugh and play with us this Summer learning the basics of improv and sketch comedy! Lean into the silly, build confidence, strengthen creativity and flex your make-believe bones! Camp ends with a friends and family comedy show starring our amazing campers! www.WTFun.org

Early Bird Discount Offered: EARLY BIRD CODE "KIDDO" $50 DOLLARS OFF EXPIRES MAY 1 ST

Registration Deadline: JUNE 24

Cost: $300

Dates: JUNE 26 - 30 2023

Ages: 7-10 Location: 6406 SE FOSTER RD., PORTLAND, OR 97206

Camp Type: SUMMER COMEDY CAMP

PAM CUT is gearing up for another series of summer camps inspired by the upcoming PAM exhibition, Guillermo del Toro: Crafting Pinocchio. Beginning June 19, artist instructors will engage creative minds, covering different aspects of animation — including gaming, design, stop-motion and more!

PAMCUT.ORG

LOVEGOOD PERFORMING ARTS COMPANY

Website LOVEGOOD.COMPANY/SUMMER

Early Bird Discount YES

Registration Deadline JUNE 30

Cost $149-$299

We have an exciting summer planned for our campers in a safe and supportive community! Campers will explore their creativity while practicing teamwork skills. They will discover and advance their acting, singing, dance, improv and technical theatre skills!

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

The Choice that Makes a Difference!

All Saints School

Enrollment Opens Jan. 1; apply online.

601 NE Cesar E Chavez Blvd., Portland, OR 97232 503-236-6205 allsaintsportland.com

Cathedral School

Now accepting applications, apply online! Call for a private tour. Visit cathedralschoolopenhouse.org for our virtual tour. 110 NW 17th Ave., Portland, OR 97209 503-275-9370 cathedral-or.org

St. Clare School

Enrolling now for the 23/24 school year!

1807 SW Freeman St., Portland, OR 97219 503-244-7600 stclarepdx.org

St. John the Apostle Open House: Feb. 7, 5–7pm. 516 Fifth St., Oregon City, OR 97045 503-742-8230 sja-eagles.com

St. Rose School

Join us for Open House on Feb. 2, 5-6pm. Call for tour information! 5309 NE Alameda St., Portland, OR 97213 503-281-1912 strosepdx.org

The Madeleine School

Tour our school and meet the teachers and families.

Grades K-8.

3240 NE 23rd Ave., Portland, OR 97212 503-288-9197 themadeleine.edu

St. Thomas More Catholic School

3521 SW Patton Rd., Portland, OR 97221 503-222-6105 stmpdxschool.org

St. John Fisher School 4581 SW Nevada St., Portland, OR 97219 503-246-3234 sjfschool.org

St. Agatha Catholic School

7960 SE 15th Ave., Portland, OR 97202 503-234-5500 stagatha.us

St. Pius X School

1260 NW Saltzman Rd., Portland, OR 97229 503-644-3244 stpiuspanthers.org

Academic Excellence • Faith Formation • Rich Co-Curricular Activities • Before and After School Care Registered and Recognized by the State of Oregon • Accredited by the Western Catholic Educational Association (WCEA)

Kiddos and their grown-ups can try out some of Portland's many fun camps options to find the best fit!

Kitchen Confidence

BY DENISE CASTAÑON

Cooking and appreciating good food is a big part of my family’s life. My oldest child, Adela who is 10, started helping me in the kitchen when she was a toddler. She isn’t quite as eager to be in the kitchen as when she was younger, but she does help out occasionally. She recently had the chance to try out a class at the new Little Kitchen Academy at Bridgeport Village. Little Kitchen Academy (LKA) cooking classes for kids provide a safe and empowering environment to learn practical life skills, confidence, independence and healthy eating habits. And LKA uses a Montessori-inspired approach when it comes to teaching kids. This franchise has locations throughout the United States and Canada, but

the Bridgeport Village location is the only one in Oregon.

I’ve taken other cooking classes with my kids before, but LKA is solely for kids. And the classes are broken down by age groups: ages 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 and 13 and older. Even though this meant both my kids could not go to the same class, I appreciated this thoughtful breakdown. Keeping classes strictly to specific age groups definitely means kids are less likely to be bored and more likely to pick up a new age-appropriate skill. The classes are three hours long and held once a week for four weeks and cost $400 for most age groups. LKA Bridgeport Village also offers school-break and summer camps.

Pro tip: If you only have one child and don’t live close enough to easily drop off and pick up your child, an LKA class at Bridgeport Village is the perfect opportunity to go see a movie kid-free! Or do some shopping and eat a meal.

Adela took a class on how to make an apple puffy pancake — also called a Dutch baby. There were six kids total in the class.

“The instructors were definitely nice,” Adela says. “One had a bunch of ponytail holders and went around saying ‘Who needs their hair up?’ The main chef was definitely funny; the class was very quiet at first and he was telling jokes and trying to get everyone to lighten up and feel comfortable.”

Kids as young as 3 can have fun in the kitchen and learn new skills with the child-centered classes at Little Kitchen Academy.

ALL PHOTOS BY LITTLE KITCHEN ACADEMY BRIDGEPORT VILLAGE

Adela told me that every student had their own wide counter space, sink and cabinet that had two drawers. The instructors helped the kids get familiar with their station and equipment.

When the class began slicing apples, the instructors cut them in half for them and the kids cored them with melon ballers and peeled them. “The instructors described the things in a way kids would understand it: ‘In your secret drawer, you’ll find a double-sided spoon kinda like a Darth Maul spoon, but it’s got a hole in it, so you wouldn’t want to eat soup with it!’”

After one student completely melon balled his apple, Adela recounted in amazement the chef’s reaction. “The chef didn’t chew him out or make him redo it! He just said, ‘That’s an interesting way to do it, I wonder how it will taste?’ Someone else melon balled a face into their apple and no one said it was bad! One of the chefs took a picture of it!”

After their pancakes went into the ovens, the kids made whipped cream by putting whipping cream into jars with marbles and shaking them up. This was Adela’s very favorite part of the class. “They said, ‘If you shake it too much, it will turn to butter. But if you want to make butter, that’s OK. Butter’s great, too,’” she says. Cleaning up was also a part of the class. Students washed dishes, cleaned counters and set the table.

Adela was excited to tell me about a really useful tip she picked up. She said the instructors told them to “burp” the ovens when it was time to take out the Dutch babies — basically opening the oven door a crack to release the steam and keep it from going right in your face.

The students got to sample their creations with whipped cream and syrup. Adela said it was really tasty and brought home the rest for us.

Overall Adela liked her Little Kitchen Academy class. She was particularly impressed by the equipment and gadgets they used: induction burners, melon ballers, silicone oven mitts and juicers. And by the fact that the teachers never chastised students if they veered from the instructions. It reinforced for her that there is more than one way to cook and “messing up” is not the end of the world.

PDX Parent's editor Denise Castañon loves sharing new ideas with other Portland parents. You can find her cooking, eating, crafting and writing in Southeast Portland where she lives with her husband, 8-year-old son and 10-yearold daughter.

February 2023

Go. Play. Explore.

bright lights at night

The Winter Light Brigade is hosting their Portland Winter Light Festival that spreads joy and amazement during the month’s dreary and cold nights. This year’s theme, The Light of Stars, was inspired by the truly astounding images the James Webb Telescope brought to the world in July 2022. Prepare to feel that same wonder when your family takes in the nightly displays and performances found in downtown spots like Pioneer Courthouse Square as well as in farther-out neighborhoods like Lents. Pop-ups will occur in retail windows, empty storefronts, front yards and public spaces. Visit pdxwlf.com for where to find the light displays. Friday to Sunday, February 3-11. Free. — Denise Castañon

science on the cheap

Been meaning to take a trip to OMSI? Now you’ve got the perfect excuse. OMSI’s $2 Days are back. Admission to the popular museum’s permanent exhibit halls and labs is just $2 per person on the first Sunday of each month. You’ll also enjoy discounts on special exhibitions, Empirical Theater and Kendall Planetarium shows, and tours of the USS Blueback Submarine! Sunday, February 5. OMSI’s Sunday hours are 9:30 am-5:30 pm. Pro tip: Tickets can be purchased online and the discount will show up in the cart. — D.C.

Find

hop to it

While Lunar New Year may have fallen on January 22 this year, the Lan Su Chinese Garden is keeping the celebration going through February 5. Welcome the Year of the Rabbit at one of Lan Su’s special lantern viewing evening sessions. Highlights of the evening include an illuminated dragon procession from Portland Lee’s Association Dragon & Lion Dance Team, a Year of the Rabbit family chopstick challenge, and beautiful hanging red lanterns glowing throughout the garden. Thursday to Sunday, January 26-29 and February 2-5. Member admission: $35; general: $45; children (ages 3-11): $15; infant (ages 0-2): free. EBT cardholders: $25 for up to four tickets available at the Lan Su ticket booth only. Find out more at: lansugarden.org — D.C.

OMSI

celebrate Black excellence

February is Black History Month and there are fabulous local events and festivities spotlighting Black history, culture and more. World Stage Theatre, a multi-cultural, multi-generational organization is back in person this year with its annual Black History Festival NW. And there’s lots happening during the month-long celebration. Don’t miss: the 17th Annual Who I Am Celebrating Me production, youth-curated displays at Multnomah County libraries, How Well Do You Know Your Black History game show, a city-wide scavenger hunt, flash mob dance during the Portland Winter Light Festival and new this year, a drag show, and a marketplace supporting Black-owned businesses and artists. This year’s theme is Learn, Love, Heal. Visit worldstagetheatre.org for more information.

Head to the Sherwood Center for the Arts as it celebrates Black History Month in February during its Family Matinee Series. This month, delight in the sights and sounds of Ekome, a group of dancers and drummers led by Nii Ardey Allotey, as they perform traditional Ghanaian songs, dancing and drumming. Saturday, February 11, 2 pm. Tickets are $5. Visit sherwoodcenterforthearts.org/general/ page/nii-ardey-allotey-and-ekome. — Tiffany Hill

hearts aglow

Celebrate all things red hearts this month with these kid-friendly Valentine’s Day activities.

Visit SCRAP Creative Reuse to make upcycled cards, garlands and more. Your kids can sticker, stamp and collage to their hearts’ content with SCRAP’s bounty of craft supplies at their Sunday crafternoon especially dedicated to V-Day. Sunday, February 12, 2-4 pm. Find the event at portland.scrapcreativereuse.org/Events-Calendar and buy tickets to reserve your spots; $7.50 plus fees. SCRAP PDX, 1736 SW Alder St.

hungry, hungry dragons

Get ready for dragons to take the stage at Oregon Children’s Theatre. The company is bringing the beloved picture book Dragons Love Tacos to life. But not to worry, these dragons are fun-loving and far from scary — making this a great first theater experience for preschoolers. (And the 60-minute run time is perfect for them, too!) Through February 19: Saturdays at 2 pm and 5 pm; and Sundays at 11 am and 2 pm. Newmark Theatre. Find tickets at octc.org — D.C.

Or learn how to decorate Valentine’s themed cupcakes with your favorite kid at the Bob’s Red Mill Whole Grain Store & Restaurant Bonus: You’ll take home lots of goodies! Saturday, February 11, 12:30-2 pm. Bob’s Red Mill Whole Grain Store & Restaurant, 5000 SE International Way, Milwaukie. Tickets up for sale February 1. Find out more at facebook.com/WholeGrainStore/events

Go on a heart scavenger hunt at Wilsonville parks! Find all seven of Cupid’s Hearts around Wilsonville City parks and facilities and be entered to win a gift basket! Pro tip: You’ll get a bonus entry if you send a photo of your search. You’ll find the clues posted to WilsonvilleParksandRec.com, Facebook and Instagram

@WilsonvilleParksandRec on January 30; and the hunt goes through Sunday, February 12. Free. — D.C.

OREGON CHILDREN’S THEATRE

sweet cakes

If your kids want to learn pro cake decorating tricks, sign them up for a class with Kimmie Hutchins of Jam Cakes. Hutchins’ creations are things of wonder! She’s got two February classes featuring utterly adorable designs. The love bug kids’ cake decorating class for ages 5 to 10 and older will be on February 5, 11 am-noon at Hammer and Jacks toy store. $45. And then on February 19, 11 am-12:30 pm, tweens, teens and adults can try their hands at creating a Kawaii pancake cake. $55. Follow Hutchins on Instagram @ JamCakes82 to view her amazing work and to register for classes. Pro tip: Don’t wait to sign up, the classes sell out! — D.C

reggae rhythms

You’ve got two chances to catch Portland kindie great Aaron Nigel Smith this month! The whole family will enjoy grooving to his fun and mellow blend of reggae and roots in Hillsboro. Saturday, February 11, 2-3 pm. Walters Cultural Arts Center, 527 E Main St., Hillsboro. Tickets $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Purchase tickets at cityofhillsboro. ticketspice.com/aaron-nigel-smith. And then catch him with his buddy Red Yarn at The Reser (pictured left). They’ll play tunes from their folk-reggae-rock collab album Smith & Yarn. Saturday, February 25, 11 am. Patricia Reser Center for the Arts, 12625 SW Crescent St., Beaverton. Tickets starting at $10 at thereser.org — D.C.

fancy felines

If you’ve got cat lovers in your family, the Portland Cat Extravaganza is a must-do event. You’ll see all kinds of special breeds such as fluffy Maine Coons, cute American Curls and regal Sphynx. The kitties will be vying for titles including Best Kitten and Best Cat — and some gentle chin scritches from adoring fans. Find out more at cwwgroup. com/events/portland. Saturday and Sunday, February 4-5, 10 am-4pm. Portland Expo Center, 2060 N Marine Dr. Adult admission: $22; kids 12 and younger: $14; and seniors and kids 12-17: $18. — D.C.

LISSA HAHN

JAM CAKES

OREGON SYMPHONY

doughy delights

Boiled, steamed, fried or baked, we can’t get enough of delicious dumplings. The folks at The Oregonian agree, which is why Dumpling Week Portland has been running for nine tasty years. Catch the last four days of all things dumplings — through February 4 — by ordering takeout or dining in at 31 restaurants across the Portland area. From mouthwatering dumplings from XLB, Sichuan chile crunch lamb and cilantro dumplings with black vinegar at Boke Bowl, to North 45’s blueberry cheesecake fried wonton, there’s a dumpling for everyone. Visit dumplingweek. com for more information. — T.H.

Goonies never say die

Don’t miss The Goonies, a beloved, filmed-inOregon ’80s classic, up on the big screen as the talented musicians of the Oregon Symphony score original and pop hits to this kid adventurers flick. Saturday, February 18, 7:30 pm and Sunday, February 19, 2 p.m. Tickets start at $39. Visit orsymphony.org/concertstickets/calendar. — T.H.

such a catch

Celebrate Mardi Gras New Orleans style right here in Portland at the annual Portland Mardi Gras parade thrown by the Mysti Krewe of Nimbus. The whole community is invited to dress up and dance along with the second line at this family-friendly nighttime parade in the Mississippi neighborhood. Lucky parade goers might even catch a mini umbrella “throw” from Krewe members. Many neighborhood restaurants will be offering food and drinks specials before and after the parade. Find out more at portlandmardigras.com. Tuesday, February 21 starting at 7 pm. Parade starts on North Humboldt Street and proceeds down Mississippi Avenue to Cook Street. Free. — D.C.