PDX Parent January 2022

FREE

PDX PARENT PICKS 2022: VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITES!

for the long days and short years

The Neighborhood

Guide PDXPARENT.COM

Family-friendly spots Find It to live, play and eat. Guide pg. 22

PORTLAND | SW WASHINGTON | JANUARY 2022

Experience the magic of movies as never before with your Oregon Symphony!

Disney and Pixar’s Coco Feature film with Oregon Symphony Sat Feb 26, 7:30 pm Sun Feb 27, 2 pm Celebrate Día de los Muertos with 12-year-old Miguel as he travels to the Land of the Dead to discover the truth about his family and their musical legacy in Disney and Pixar’s Oscar®-winning animated film – a perfect experience for toda la familia.

tickets start at

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*

*Subject to availability.

For tickets: orsymphony.org | 503-228-1353 | 909 sw Washington, Portland, or 97205

CR AIG MITCHELLDYER

HOLLY WOOD THE A TR E

Kenton

contents

WIK ICOMMONS

Happy Valley

Goose Hollow

PORTL AND PAR KS & R ECR E ATION

Hollywood

POR TL AND PAR KS & R ECR E A TION

PDX PARENT’S NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE Discover the best family-friendly places to live, eat and play across the Portland area. We spotlight

ERIN J. BER NAR D

Hillside

Brentwood-Darlington

specific neighborhoods and talk to residents about what makes their areas special. scores and more.

Bonus stories: POR TL AND PAR KS & R ECR E A TION

Plus, housing costs, transit accessibility, walk and bike

Supporting BIPOC-owned Businesses.......................... 9

Southwest: Goose Hollow......................................................... 8 Southeast: Brentwood-Darlington................................... 10 Northeast: Hollywood................................................................... 12 Northwest: Hillside.......................................................................... 16 North: Kenton..................................................................................... 20 The ’Burbs: Happy Valley.........................................................34

Walk This Way! Portland Walking Tours...................... 13 The School Enrollment Dilemma........................................ 21

RESOURCES: The Find It Guide A helpful resource to find everything your family needs — from dentists to dance classes......................... 22 School Open House...................................................................... 39 * cover stories

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e d i t o r ’ s n ot e

Word On the Street

What do you

T

his last year was a tough one for people who love Portland. Housing prices for both single family homes and rental apartments skyrocketed. Gun violence exponentially increased, leaving many residents traumatized and/or grieving. (While no one was

physically hurt, this is a crisis that has personally touched my family.) And providing shelter

love about your neighborhood?

for people experiencing homelessness remains a huge need.

That said, it’s not all bad news. Looking across the various neighborhoods in the city and beyond, we see an overarching theme in our Neighborhood Guide: Residents say great neighbors make living in Portland worth it for families. PDX Parent’s annual Neighborhood Guide, starting on page 8, looks at a mix of different neighborhoods and gives you information on housing costs, walkability, parks, family-friendly events, and more.

Hosford-Abernethy may be the most walk/bike friendly neighborhood in town and everything we need is right here:

Like food. We all know Portlanders love

restaurants, grocery stores, parks,

their local restaurants, and we recommend

schools, Mt. Tabor, OMSI, the East

kid-friendly dining spots in each neighborhood as well.

Another glimmer of hope: We found an amazing list of BIPOC-owned businesses that not only contribute to the local

Bank Esplanade. ... We’ve been here for 14 years and we’re never leaving.

We love that in Sylvan-Highlands, we can head just down the street

economy, but support sustainability,

and step into 200+ acres of forest

help to reverse the economic impact of

(Hoyt Arboretum). We never do the

gentrification, and more, page 9. To find even more businesses for all the things your family needs, visit our Find It Guide Listings starting on page 22. From pediatric

same hike two days in a row here, and we sometimes even see deer in our backyard, which was not something I expected living less than 10 minutes from downtown.

dentists to private schools, we love to help you connect to resources for your family.

And if you want to give your favorite NANCY MINOUI

local businesses a shoutout, vote in our annual PDX Parent Picks readers’ poll.

Voting starts this month. You can weigh in on your favorite performing arts company, dance class or camp, kids’ consignment shop and so much more.

We love Sabin’s historic homes, the number of families in the neighborhood (and on our block alone!), and the proximity to beautiful parks. Plus, we can walk just a few blocks and find ourselves on bustling

Yes, Portland’s got murals, a renowned food scene, charming neighborhoods, oodles of

Alberta Street, with its delicious

family-friendly businesses and gorgeous parks. But Portland is its people. And we as parents

restaurants and unique shops.

have a huge role in determining how the next generation of Portlanders will treat each other.

And that makes me hopeful for Portland’s future.

We love the walkability of Hillsdale, the town center with all the shops and hiking trails close by and having all three public schools so close to each other.

On Our Cover: Photographer Milana Gilligan

restaurants, small shops and

family in front of a mural located in Portland’s

parks within walking distance. And

in all kinds of locations, but my favorite locations usually include water features like a river, forest, and meadows,” says Gilligan.

“Incorporating nature scenes is easy in our beautiful city!” Find more of her amazing work at milanagilliganphotography.com and on Instagram @milanagilliganphoto.

January 2022

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to downtown, plethora of fun

captured this shot of the photogenic Romero Central Eastside. “I love to photograph families

4

We love Overlook’s proximity

although we’re super close to the city center, our neighborhood is quiet and more young families are moving in.

for the long days and short years

PDX Parent P.O. Box 13660 Portland, OR 97213-0660 Phone: 503-460-2774 Publisher Rose Caudillo, 503-460-2774 publisher@pdxparent.com Editor Denise Castañon, 503-922-0893 denise.castanon@pdxparent.com Managing Editor Tiffany Hill tiffany.hill@pdxparent.com Art Director Tiffany Howard tiffany.howard@pdxparent.com Web Content Coordinator Meg Asby meg.asby@pdxparent.com E-newsletter Editor Renee Peters renee.peters@pdxparent.com Eastside Account Executive

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Digital Ad Manager/Calendar Editor/ Distribution Coordinator Melissa Light melissa.light@pdxparent.com Accountant Kelli Bagby Truly Bookkeeping, Inc. President Jill Weisensee jill.weisensee@pdxparent.com For distribution issues, e-mail us at distribution@pdxparent.com For calendar submissions, e-mail us at calendar@pdxparent.com

PDX Parent is published monthly (except July) by Northwest Parent, LLC., and is copyright 2021 Northwest Parent, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

PDX Parent is distributed free of charge throughout the Portland, OR / Vancouver, WA metropolitan area.

PDX Parent reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised herein.

PDX Parent does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, disability, gender, gender expression, sex or sexual orientation.

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.

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CR AIG MITCHELLDYER

Southwest: GOOSE HOLLOW VIK K I RUBENS

The Goose Hollow neighborhood is actually older than the city of Portland. And, yes, it was named

what neighbors say

after long-ago geese that women tended in the flood basin that stood before the neighborhood’s development. But you won’t find geese keepers these days in the neighborhood nestled just west of downtown Portland. One of the most walkable neighborhoods in the city, Goose Hollow gives families easy access to downtown culture and activities. Housing options range from tiny studio apartments to sprawling, historic, 6,000-square-foot Victorian homes.

And Providence Park, which is the home of the Timbers, Thorns and Portland State (PSU) Vikings, is right in the neighborhood boundaries. If easy access to all that Portland has to offer is a top priority, Goose d.

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N. Chautauqua

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lan N Co

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Dr.

SE Duke St.

lvd.

N Denver Ave.

get around January 2022

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NP ort

PROVIDENCE PARK

8

Mar

Hollow brings just that.

N Lombard St.

84

Transit Score

93 Walk score

80 Bike score

SOURCE: WALK SOCRE

W Burnside St.

While city living comes with many advantages, it can bring you face-toface with Portland’s affordable housing and mental health crises as well. “I really like that living in Goose Hollow makes my kids pretty street-smart,” says 16-year resident Vikki Rubens, mom of a 9-year-old and 5-year-old. “They know how to maneuver public transportation and they have the stamina to walk all over town. As we walk into downtown, we are not cocooned from the realities of the homeless and the mental health crises.

I remember having to explain to my then 4-year-old why a woman was screaming across the street at no one. It has built up an empathy and an understanding in my kids at an early age, not fear or ignorance.”

Rubens also likes that while Goose Hollow is so close to downtown, it has a strong neighborhood feel with long-term residents and a long history. “We have an annual Goose Hollow picnic, hosted and provided by Providence Park. And I really like that we are relatively close to everything — most things in Portland are 20 minutes away because we are in the center of Portland.” Rubens says a downside of living in Goose Hollow is that the houses tend to be older, with no garages and small backyards. Plus, the roads are a little too busy for kids to ride their bikes around the neighborhood.

play here

SUPPORTING LOCAL, BIPOC-OWNED BUSINESSES

MOCHITSUK I

Plant lovers can fill their homes and gardens at Birds and Bees Nursery (pictured below) and Larkspur Portland, both in Southeast. (Kids will also love Birds and Bees’ excellent selection of fairygarden accessories.) Pro tip: Birds and Bees is part of Equitable Giving Circle — an organization that focuses on entrepreneurship and food insecurity — and partners to get free plants to BIPOC folks. Birdsandbeespdx.com.

Larkspur Portland is also a plant shop that focuses on community building. It partners with local organizations to offer free monthly therapeutic horticulture group sessions. Larkspurportland.com.

Need a seriously spectacular kid’s birthday cake or a bunch of celebratory cake pops? Portlanders rave about DB Dessert Company. Dbdessertcompany.com. For vegan and gluten-free cookie cravings, check out Black Street Bakery. One of the programs of the racial justice nonprofit, Brown Hope, Blackstreet Bakery is committed to expanding economic opportunities for Black Portlanders who have been displaced by gentrification.

Brownhope.org/blackstreet-bakery.

Started by local mom Ivy Chuang, Blendily, offers botanical skincare products for head-to-toe self care.

(And even a balm for baby bums!) Bonus: Ingredients are locally sourced and the company is committed to sustainability. Blendily.com.

Finely hand-crafted leather goods is a family tradition for Jose Martinez and his sons. At Orox Leather Co., purses, wallets, belts and more are designed with durability and timelessness to become heirloom pieces.

Oroxleather.com.

Local mama and illustrator extraordinaire, Tamani Emerald, sells posters, t-shirts, cards and more that celebrate all things diversity, equity and inclusion.

Her When I Grow Up I Will Be a Good Human poster is one that should be hanging in every nursery.

Emeraldcreative.org.

With Love From PDX is a one-two punch for local gift giving. With Love curates goods from 75 local purveyors of coffee, wine, chocolates and more into a wide variety of unique gift boxes that can be sent anywhere in the country. Withlovefrompdx.com. — Denise Castañon

Just east of Goose Hollow, Portland State University offers a rich variety of fun for families from kicking a soccer ball around on the intramural field, to going to the university’s many cultural events (pictured above) to hitting the huge weekly Farmers Market at PSU. Plus downtown’s Central Library boasts one of the biggest and most beautiful children’s sections in the whole city. Families can also easily walk to Oregon Symphony Kids’ Concerts at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall and Oregon Children’s Theatre productions at the Newmark Theatre or Northwest Children’s Theater & School’s productions at its theater. Also, just out of neighborhood boundaries is Washington Park, home to the International Rose Test Garden, Japanese Garden and Oregon Zoo. And soccer fans, of course, have Providence Park right in the center of the neighborhood.

live here $561,00 $2,950

Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment SOURCES: REDFIN AND ZUMPER

Goose Hollow is truly a neighborhood for doughnut lovers. Not only is it home to the Bluestar Donuts headquarters and a Coco Donuts location, but Hunnymilk, a brunch spot centered all around variations of fried dough, resides right on the border at Burnside. Even savory items like the Everything Beignet Benedict and Popcorn Chicken and Waffle Donuts have a doughnut twist. For those looking for something a little healthier, The Soop on West Burnside features Korean dishes with housegrown hydroponic greens. Also just outside of Goose Hollow, hit the Duck House Chinese Restaurant (pictured above) for steamed soup dumplings; resident Vikki Rubens says her kids can eat a whole basket by themselves. And Ding Tea PSU is a fun place to indulge in chewy boba drinks.

— Denise Castañon

BIR DS AND BEES NUR SERY

eat here

DUCK HOUSE CHINESE R EST AUR ANT

Median home price

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POR TL AND PAR KS & R ECR E A TION

Southeast: BRENTWOOD-DARLINGTON

LINDSAY STR ANNIGAN

The best thing Brentwood-Darlington has going for it is the strong community vibe,” says Will Mohring, a father of two and realtor with Metro Portland Home Search. “Neighbors support one another like I have never seen before, and I have lived in seven Darlington Connect Neighbors Facebook group; it serves the diverse neighborhood stretching from SE 45th Avenue to SE 82nd Avenue, with a northern border of SE Duke Street and southern border of the Clackamas county line. BrentwoodDarlington, or BD as neighbors call it, has a lower median home price than Portland’s overall median single-family home price of $565,500. And while walk scores are low due to lack of sidewalks in many areas, the City of Portland is looking to improve walkability with two projects slated for 2023-2024 — sidewalk infill on Duke and Flavel, and a neighborhood greenway on Knapp and Ogden. And the Lower SE Rising project is currently taking input from neighbors on additional infrastructure needs. Mohring says he hopes to see more sidewalks on north/south running streets as well. There is one group who does find the neighborhood walkable: an ostentation of wild peacocks that can be spotted elegantly traipsing up 52nd Avenue.

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The 14-acre Brentwood Park is the neighborhood’s largest park and features plenty of space for families to run, play and picnic.

what neighbors say Lindsay Strannigan, mom to a 7-year-old, has lived in Brentwood-Darlington for five years. She echoes Will Mohring's statements about a strong sense of community. “People look out for each other in the BD,” says Strannigan. “There are so many free fridges and little free libraries — and there was even a pop-up pantry that started during the pandemic that gave out free food to anyone who needed it.”

Another plus? “The affordability of this neighborhood is a draw for many young families,” she says. “Our street is full of families like us who are first-time homeowners.”

Safety can be an issue though. “Our first home in BD was broken into shortly after we moved in, but it’s forced us to get to know our neighbors and look out for one another and we haven’t had any issues since,” says Strannigan.

64 Walk score

84 Bike score

SOURCE: WALK SOCRE

different states.” This is also apparent on the Brentwood

PORTL AND PAR KS & R ECR E ATION

PDX Parent Picks NOMINEES FOR 2022

NP ort lan

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NOMINEES:

N Denver Ave.

SE J

SE Clackstop St.

B l v d.

SE 45th Ave.

SE Duke St.

Many native plants and shrubs thrive in Errol Heights Park (pictured above) – part of the Johnson Creek Watershed. And it’s even home to beavers! Walk the trails to spot the trees they’ve chewed down. Neighbors also connect at Brentwood Park. Its amenities include a fenced dog park, paved paths, picnic tables, a playground, soccer and softball fields, and tennis and volleyball courts.

Vote for your favorite family-focused people, places and spaces in the Mar in Dr. W the Portland-metro area. Here eare nominees for favorite Art & Crafts Classes/Camps. Vote for the full list of categories at pdxparent.com/ N Co lum bia B vote-2022. lvd N. Chautauqua

play here SE 46th Ave. SE Clackstop St.

N. Chautauqua Blvd.

N Lombard St.

Art World School

Children’s Healing Art Project (CHAP) Crafty Mindz Grace Institute Home of Grace Art Camps One River School Lake Oswego Portland Craft Bar Tucker Arts Camps

live here

Vibe of Portland Willowbrook Arts Camp

$427,00 $1,515

Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment

VIBE OF PORTL AND

Median home price

Budding artists create at Vibe of Portland art classes at BrentwoodDarlington’s Moose Lodge.

SOURCES: REDFIN AND ZUMPER

DENISE C ASTAÑON

eat here

Unlike many neighborhoods in Portland, Brentwood-Darlington does not have a main drag with abundant commercial dining and retail options. But neighborhood staple Mehri’s Bakery & Cafe, offers tempting dishes like baked French toast and veggie lasagna with garlic bread. Close by in Woodstock, families flock to Bai Mint Thai, Hawaiian eats at Ate-oh-Ate and pub fare at Double Mountain Brewery. And the popular Cartlandia food cart pod is at the neighborhood’s eastern border. BD is also home to Three Sisters Nixtamal, the Northwest’s premier organic, stone-ground corn tortilla and masa purveyor. While its tortillas are sold in stores and served in restaurants throughout the city, you can pick up stacks of tortillas directly at its factory at SE 72nd Avenue and Flavel.

— Denise Castañon

VIBE OF PORTL AND

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Northeast: HOLLYWOOD Clackamas SE Clackstop St. W Burnside St. Providence Park

Providence Park

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N Denver Ave.

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PROVIDENCE PARK

Did you know that this Northeast neighborhood was originally called Hollyrood?

N Lombard St.

Damascus

Named after Holyrood, an area

Clackamas

224

in Edinburgh, Scotland,

212

Hollywood permanently

NE Thompson St.

Grant Park

changed its name in 1926, which was NE 47th Ave.

the same year the ornately facaded

Banfi eld Ex

Hollywood Theatre

py.

opened. Today, Hollywood is one of Portland’s smallest neighborhoods, clocking in at .18 square-mile. But while it’s compact, Hollywood still 46th

SE Duke St.

retains the classic character

SE 45th Ave.

and charm of historic Portland, but with modernday conveniences. It’s also SE J

ohn

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SE Clackstop St. that perfect mix of residential

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and commercial, making it a

vd.

great place for families to live, play, shop and eat. Housing is likewise diverse, from shiny JASON LESH

new apartment complexes and low-rise walk-ups to quintessential bungalows and immaculate Craftsman homes.

Being in a small neighborhood has its benefits, says longtime resident Jason Lesh, who has lived there with his wife and two teen sons since 2010. “It’s a front-porch neighborhood,” he says. “On our block we have families that have moved here from all over, so it’s nice to have different perspectives and backgrounds. But we all value the same thing: good relationships.” And while Hollywood has grown over the years, Lesh says it still offers everything they need. The Leshs can easily walk to the Hollywood Farmers Market, which runs year-round. They also frequent the Hollywood Library. Sometimes those comforts come with a price, though. Lesh says in the decade-plus his family has lived there, home prices in the neighborhood (like much of Portland) have tripled. And traffic on Sandy Boulevard, one of Hollywood’s main thoroughfares, has increased. “It’s like a highway and not a through street.”

what neighbors say

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94 Walk score

94 Bike score

SOURCE: WALK SCORE

HOLLY WOOD THE A TR E

DOE DONUTS

WALK THIS WAY!

eat here

WEDGEHE AD

If you’re looking for Northern Chinese cuisine, Hollywood boasts not one, but two, such restaurants. Chin’s Kitchen is one of Portland’s oldest Chinese restaurants and is renowned for its house made dumplings and freshly pulled noodles. Shandong serves up traditional dishes, standout soups and also has vegan options.

Introduce the kids to tasty Indonesian dishes at Gado Gado.

They’ll love the flaky roti paratha! For artisan breads and pastries, visit Fleur De Lis Bakery & Cafe. This French-inspired bakery serves all your baked favorites as well as breakfast and lunch sandwiches, omelettes and quiches. Satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth with a trip to Doe Donuts (pictured above). This women-owned shop is known for its colorful, inventive vegan doughnuts — plus, ice cream. The Birthday Cake with cotton candy sprinkles is a hit with kids, but don’t be afraid to try Doe’s creative rotating monthly flavors; they are all winners.

play here

Exploring by foot is a great way to get to know a city, and Portland has some excellent walking tours that showcase the area’s history, hidden gems and haute cuisine. So, whether you’ve called Portland home for years or just moved here, lace up your sneakers and take a walk.

Tanya March is the founder and owner of Slabtown Tours, where she’s been taking families, Portland Public Schools groups, summer camp kids and college students on guided walks around the city for more than 15 years. Each tour is 90 minutes and is doable for all abilities (Adults: $30, youth: $10 and children 5 and under: free). March has her doctorate in urban studies and her master’s in historic preservation, so she knows her stuff. She says the Nob Hill neighborhood tour in Northwest is a family favorite; the walk ends at Salt & Straw. To discover — and sample — more of the city’s delicious foods, book a tour with Around Portland Tours. The local company offers both walking and biking tours (families can bring their own bikes, or use one of Around Portland’s).

Co-owner Sarah Gilbert says families love their foodie tours, such as the Chocolate and Coffee Walking Tour ($59 for adults and $45 for kids) or the Doughnuts, Coffee and Street Art Bike Tour ($39 for adults and $34 for kids). Sweet treats for the win!

For fans of Beverly Cleary’s beloved characters, head to the Hollywood Library in Northeast Portland. It’s the starting point for the Walking with Ramona tour. The free, selfguided walk meanders past sites important to Cleary and inspiration for her books, including her homes, library and a statue garden in Grant Park featuring Ramona Quimby, Henry Huggins and Henry’s dog Ribsy. Find the map online here: multcolib.org/sites/default/files/Beverly-Cleary_ Walking-with-Ramona-Map_2016.pdf. — Tiffany Hill

AROUND POR TL AND TOUR S

While Hollywood residents can enjoy the sprawling greenery of the adjacent Grant Park, sometimes playtime

— Tiffany Hill

live here $562,465

Median home value

$1,495

Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment

pdxparent.com

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SOURCES: ZILLOW AND ZUMPER

adventures require indoor spaces. (Hello rainy days!) Don’t miss the aptly named The Wiggle Room. Jessica and Chris Wade opened the 2,000 square-foot space for kids to play and socialize — now even more important in our COVID world. The Wiggle Room features a — regularly-cleaned — padded floor and a 16-foot by 20-foot play structure. Another bonus: The Wiggle Room offers snacks for the littles and coffee, beer and wine for the grownups. For older kids and budding gamers, Wedgehead has all your arcade needs. For $10, play unlimited pinball at 25 machines of all different genres, including super heroes, aliens, villains and more. Plus, the arcade serves up a solid menu of delicious burgers. For some supreme browsing, head to Antique Alley. This thrifting oasis is located downstairs in the Hollywood 42nd Street Station. Wander through a maze of booths filled with toys, clothes, glassware and ephemera. Continue the history trip by stepping inside the classic Hollywood Theatre, a Northeast Portland icon for 95 years. (In 1983 it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is currently undergoing renovation.) The theater features diverse programming — such as Kung Fu throwbacks and familyfriendly vintage animation — and families can enjoy matinee tickets for $4 for children 12 and under and $7 for adults.

January 2022

ERIN J. BERNARD

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Tryon Forest Adventures An active full day experience for youth ages 7 to 12 to connect with nature and each other. @ Tryon Creek State Natural Area in SW Portland Spring and Summer Sessions Connecting kids to nature since 1970!

find details at www.tryonfriends.org 2022 Forest Adventures Ad.indd 1

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RYAN FR ANK

Northwest: HILLSIDE Forest Park provides the perfect neighborhood escape for Hillside families looking to get outside.

T AMAR A PELLICIER

Hillside in Northwest Portland is an urban neighborhood with small-town charm. Bordered by Hillside is only a hop, skip and a jump away from the Alphabet District and its iconic restaurants and shops. Yet the neighbors know each other by name and can often be found playing pickleball together or walking their dogs on the lawn in front of Hillside Community Center. The center is the heart of this small, forested community, a gathering hub where many of the neighborhood children attend Pipster Prep Preschool. Though small, the neighborhood packs a punch. A few steps north and you’re in the woods. A few steps east, and you’re in the city.

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Tamara Pellicier says Hillside was a godsend during the pandemic.

“We walk a flight of stairs, cross the street, and we’re in the forest,” she says. During quarantine, she took “forest baths” every day with her wife, Stacy Drasen, and their children Clea, age 11, and Axel, age 6.

Pellicier teaches at Catlin Gabel School, and Drasen is a pediatrician in Vancouver — both say their commutes are a breeze, giving them more time to enjoy life in Hillside. They also love that the neighborhood goes all out for Halloween, where over-the-top decorations and full-size candy bar treats are the standard. They acknowledge that the neighborhood is expensive, but despite the elegant homes, they say Hillside remains down-to-earth friendly and a fantastic place for families.

what neighbors say

48 Walk score

61 Bike score

SOURCE: WALK SCORE

Forest Park to the north, and Burnside to the south,

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NOMINEES FOR 2022 N Co

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W Bu rnsid e St.

Vote for your favorite family-focused people, places and spaces in the Portland-metro area. Here are the nominees for favorite Museum/Family N Lombard St.Membership. Vote for the full list of categories at pdxparent.com/vote-2022.

N. Chautauqua

urns

Dr.

PDX Parent Picks

PITTOCK MANSION

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SE Duke St.

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SE 45th Ave.

NOMINEES:

Clackamas

224

Damascus

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POR TL AND PAR KS & R ECR E A TION

Japanese Garden Lan Su Chinese SE Clackstop St. Garden SE Joh

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OMSI - Oregon Museum of Science & Industry Oregon Zoo Portland Art Museum Portland Audubon (right)

play here

Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks & Minerals

Hillside Community Center boasts tennis and basketball courts, a gymnasium, a rock climbing wall, a soccer field and playground. It is the realized dream of Hillside neighbors, 12 of whom took out second mortgages on their homes to secure the gathering space in the 1970s, before officially turning it over to the City of Portland. Kids will also love hiking to the “Witch’s Castle,” in Macleay Park (pictured above), or seeing the spectacular views from historic Pittock Mansion. Fans of Wildwood by Colin Meloy will love living in the real-life setting of the children’s novel.

POR TL AND AUDUBON

eat here While there are no restaurants within the borders of Hillside, neighbors often walk to Northwest 23rd Avenue for local eats. The vegetarian curry at Boxer Ramen is bursting with umami flavor, and Salt & Straw’s rotating menu of seasonal, made-from-scratch ice cream is always a family favorite. Papa Haydn, a Portland staple since 1978, offers both dine-in and takeout options, with an extensive and famed pastry case. From casual eats to fine dining, the very best of the Portland foodie scene is Hillside-adjacent.

PAPA HAYDN

live here $685,550

Median home price

$2,095

Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment SOURCES:

— Meg Asby

REDFIN AND ZUMPER

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Think Globally

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Learn Deeply . Act Passionately

Winter Virtual Open House ~ january 23, 2022 .

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Two Sisters Play Café Relax, dine and sip while youngsters enjoy our playroom that has a climbing structure with a slide and ball pit plus plenty of toys! Activities also available for older children.

11923 SE McLoughlin Blvd.

Milwaukie, Oregon 97222 (503) 344-4883 twosistersplaycafe.net Open 8am–3pm Wed.–Sun., After-hours private play, parties, classes + events

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This North Portland neighborhood has everything a family could ask for — parks, a library and restaurants galore. A Kenton resident for more

North: KENTON

than 60 years, Paul Bunyan greets passersby at the corner of Denver and Interstate avenues. The 31-foottall metal statue was erected in 1959, on the 100th anniversary of Oregon becoming a state. While the mythical hero lumberjack is the neighborhood’s most iconic figure, this area of North Portland offers everyone who visits and lives there character, charm and plenty to see and do.

play here Like an emerald in a setting, Kenton Park sits nearly square in the middle of the neighborhood. The 12.4-acre park features a basketball court, soccer and softball fields, and our summertime favorite, a splash pad. In 2018, the city of Portland replaced the picnic tables, benches and drinking fountain — plus made the playground and play surfaces more accessible. Another gem of the neighborhood is the Kenton Library. It’s known for its large playroom used during storytimes and other programs.

Just across the Columbia Slough is the Portland International Raceway (pictured left), where you W Burn sidecan St. watch drag and auto races, motocross and more. It’s also home PROVIDENCE to the popular Winter Wonderland holiday PARK drive-through light show.

POR TL AND INTER NA TIONAL R ACEWAY

Clackamas SE Clackstop St. W Burnside St. Providence Park

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73

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$1,495

for a two-bedroom apartment

SE Duke St.

46th

51

Transit score

Bike score SE 45th Ave.

get around

SOURCE: WALK SCORE

Median home value

pdxparent.com SE J

SE Clackstop St.

SOURCES: REDFIN, ZUMPER

eat here North Denver Avenue is Kenton’s main street and serves as the neighborhood’s social hotspot. It’s also where many of its best eateries are located. For locally sourced coffee, house-made pastries and hearty sandwiches, Posies Bakery & Cafe (pictured right) is a neighborhood mainstay. Pro tip: There’s even a kids menu, with approved favorites like peanut butter and jelly, and grilled cheese sandwiches. Residents love Fino Bistro and Pizzeria for its made-from-scratch R ACHEL BOGDANOFF pastas and pizzas.

Kenton newcomer Casa Maya — which opened in 2020 — already has a loyal following because of its tacos and burritos.

Don’t forget to get a churro!

Rachel Bogdanoff and her husband Kurt Brucato moved to Kenton two weeks before their daughter was born. That was 15 years ago and they’ve been proud residents ever since. “It’s been fantastic,” says Bogdanoff, who also has a 12-year-old son.

Like many places in Portland, she says Kenton has developed over the years, including the addition of more houses, the library — which she and her family love — and new businesses popping up along Denver Avenue. “It’s easy not to leave the neighborhood. We can spend the whole weekend here.”

— By Tiffany Hill

Like virtually everything else in our world, COVID has impacted education, including how many kids are attending class at Portland Public Schools (PPS). According to the latest numbers released by PPS in October, enrollment in kindergarten through 12th grade has decreased 4.1% from a projected enrollment of 48,649 students. The report states there are 45,005 currently enrolled K-12 students — at neighborhood schools, the five charter schools, language immersion, focus options and the new online learning academy — down from 46,937 the previous year. (Pre-pandemic, the average was around 48,500 annually.)

But it’s not just COVID that’s impacted kids’ attendance. Data from the Portland State University Population Research Center indicate that enrollment is also affected by changes in birth rates, housing (and its affordability, or lack thereof) and other demographic patterns.

Enrollment is the primary driver of just how much the district receives in state funding; continued drops in how many students are in school will impact school budgets, including staffing and programming.

Nolberto Delgadillo, the chief financial officer at PPS, says the district is awaiting new enrollment numbers that will be released in February, and says PPS will then determine which numbers to use for budgeting for the next biennium, or two years. Until then, they are in a sort of a wait-and-see mode.

“When we look at the data and just how sharp that decline is, we’re hopeful now that we have few weeks of vaccine eligibility (for children 5 and older) and more info is coming out regarding COVID and what that means for our behaviors in our community, it will encourage and promote more students to come back to the classroom,” he says.

Over the course of the pandemic, some parents have opted to homeschool their kids or enroll them at private schools — some of which were able to maintain in-person learning. To encourage increased returns to in-person learning at PPS, the district rolled out its Ready Schools Safe Learners initiative earlier this year.

Delgadillo says the district is also hosting vaccine clinics at certain campuses to promote health and safety at school.

“We’re still at an interesting point of data gathering,” he says. “I try not to speculate, but be hopeful.” — Tiffany Hill

POR TL AND PAR KS & R ECR E A TION

what neighbors say

THE ENROLLMENT DILEMMA

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Portland is home to so many wonderful, familyfocused businesses.

the

Find It Guide

From surrogacy centers to schools, we’re excited to help you find everything your family needs in our handy Find It Guide Listings. We also love celebrating the places our readers give a big thumbs up. We’re rolling out our 2022 PDX Parent Picks readers’ poll at pdxparent.com/vote-2022. Vote for your family’s favorites, and you just might win a gift card from Triskelee Farm, Northwest Children’s Theater & School, Art World School, H.E.L.P and more. Local businesses say it means the world to them to be selected Winner and Top 5 Picks! (And you know that if you see a PDX Parent decal on a door, it’s a parent-approved place!)

ARTS AND CRAFTS/ VISUAL ARTS/ FILMMAKING Vibe of Portland Kids' after-school art classes, no-school day workshops and camps that teach art in a fun and innovative way, developing creativity in every child while strengthening technical skills.

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

Northwest Children's Theater and School

Animaté Voice Studio

Northwest Children's Theater and School’s mission is to educate, entertain and enrich the lives of young audiences — and they do this through award-winning performances, classes and camps!

10445 SW Canyon Rd., Ste. 201 Beaverton, OR 97005 animatevoice.com

PD X

1819 NW Everett St. Portland, OR 97209 Classes & Camps Only 5516 SE Foster Rd. Portland, OR 97206 info@nwcts.org nwcts.org

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Triskelee Farm Northwest Children's Theater and School Art World School H.E.L.P (Help Elevate Learning Processing, Inc.) And more!

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KINDIE MUSICIANS/ PERFORMERS Kelli Welli Award-winning songs and stories for kids and the people who love them. Currently performing at daycares, schools, camps, birthday parties and other private events, generally outdoors. Limited online events too. kelliwelli.com

ENT P PAR I

VOTE RE

VOTE AND ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A GIFT CARD FROM:

Engaging, positive, nurturing voice lessons for children!

Age 8 and up! Private Lessons and Group Classes available!

Seasonal performances! Over a decade of experience! OMTA and NATS Member!

Birthdays

S CK

232 SE 80th Ave. Portland, OR 97215 music@vibepdx.org vibepdx.org

DRAMA/THEATER

SPONSORED BY:

S

Arts and Entertainment

AR

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Support your family’s favorite local spots by voting in our annual readers’ poll, PDX Parent Picks! Don’t see your favorite on the list? Write it in (and tell your friends to do the same). Pro tip: You’ll automatically earn a chance to win a gift card from one of Portland’s top family-friendly businesses! Vote at pdxparent.com/vote-2022. Winners will be announced starting in March.

And save the date! Our annual family

festival is back on for 2022! We hope you'll join us and your favorites at Oaks Amusement Park, June 18, 2022 from 10am2pm for music, prizes and lots of family fun!

winter classes

listings International School of Portland

North Clackamas Aquatic Park Make your next family outing or birthday party a splash at North Clackamas Aquatic Park!

Catch a ride in Oregon’s largest wave pool, zip down water slides and splash around in interactive fountains.

150 Beavercreek Rd. Oregon City, OR 97045 info@ncprd.com ncprd.com/aquatic-park/big-surf

Penny’s Puppet Productions Let 's make your special one’s birthday an extraordinary event! Our imaginative and interactive puppet shows take the audience on a musical journey full of fun and laughter. penny@pennypuppets.com pennypuppets.com

Education FOREIGN LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION International Leadership Academy -French and US Accreditation for Preschool and Elementary French Immersion Education -Top Academic Performance -Small Class Sizes -Native French Certified Teachers -Early care and After care -Summer Camps 14788 Boones Ferry Rd. Lake Oswego, OR 97035 and 17147 Warren Court Lake Oswego, OR 97035 Ilapdx.org

Embrace the World! For over thirty years, we’ve offered full language and cultural immersion in a warm, loving environment that encourages curiosity and kindness.

Mandarin, Spanish, or Japanese. International Baccalaureate.

2305 S Water Ave. Portland, OR 97201 admissions@intlschool.org intlschool.org

PRESCHOOLS

at the theater & in your community nwcts.org • 503-222-2190

Childswork Learning Center Childswork is a safe place for children to explore, take chances, make messes and learn through play. At Childswork we nurture wonder, we embrace joy and we foster discovery.

Childswork Learning Center 10525 SE Cherry Blossom Dr. Portland, OR 97216 and 6161 SE Stark St. Portland, OR 97215 childswork.org

International School of Portland Embrace the World! For over thirty years, we’ve offered full language and cultural immersion in a warm, loving environment that encourages curiosity and kindness.

Mandarin, Spanish, or Japanese. International Baccalaureate.

2305 S Water Ave. Portland, OR 97201 admissions@intlschool.org intlschool.org

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Franciscan Montessori Earth School

The Marylhurst School The Marylhurst School is an independent, progressive education community. We embrace the creativity, questions and risk taking of childhood in a supportive, hands-on environment. We offer a child-centered curriculum infused with poetry, gardening, art, science, creative writing, music and play; all rooted in developmentally appropriate practice.

19200 Willamette Dr. West Linn, OR 97068 and 15544 Clackamas River Dr. Oregon City, OR 97045 themarylhurstschool.org

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International Leadership Academy -French and US Accreditation for Preschool and Elementary French Immersion Education -Top Academic Performance -Small Class Sizes -Native French Certified Teachers -Early care and After care -Summer Camps 14788 Boones Ferry Rd. Lake Oswego, OR 97035 and 17147 Warren Court Lake Oswego, OR 97035 ilapdx.org

Bridges Middle School

International School of Portland

2510 SW 1st Ave. Portland, OR 97201 info@bridgesms.org bridgesms.org

January 2022

4750 SE Clinton St. Portland, OR 97236 info@fmes.org FMES.org

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Bridges is the only middle school in Oregon specifically designed for students with learning differences to reach their maximum potential--in a loving, nurturing atmosphere located in downtown Portland. Our small class settings for 5th-8th graders incorporate individualized academics with social skills and support that set the foundation for success.

Admission inquiries for the 2022-23 school year are open at BridgesMS.org.

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The Franciscan Montessori Earth school offers quality Montessori education for students ages 2 1/2 to 8th grade. Small, mixed stage classrooms and a large campus provide a unique educational experience.

Embrace the World! For over thirty years, we’ve offered full language and cultural immersion in a warm, loving environment that encourages curiosity and kindness.

Mandarin, Spanish, or Japanese. International Baccalaureate.

2305 S Water Ave. Portland, OR 97201 admissions@intlschool.org intlschool.org

The Marylhurst School The Marylhurst School is an independent, progressive education community. We embrace the creativity, questions and risk taking of childhood in a supportive, hands-on environment. We offer a child-centered curriculum infused with poetry, gardening, art, science, creative writing, music and play; all rooted in developmentally appropriate practice.

19200 Willamette Dr. West Linn, OR 97068 and 15544 Clackamas River Dr. Oregon City, OR 97045 themarylhurstschool.org

Portland Jewish Academy Welcoming families of all backgrounds from 6 weeks through 8th grade. PJA’s hands-on interdisciplinary curriculum emphasizes collaborative learning, critical thinking and community engagement with small classes and dedicated teachers.

6651 SW Capitol Hwy. Portland, OR 97219 office@pjaproud.org pjaproud.org

The Portland Montessori School

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS The Choice that Makes a Difference!

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)

All Saints School Open House 2022: Jan. 13 PreK & K, and Jan. 20 grades 1–8 Accepting applications January 13, 2022 601 NE Cesar E Chavez Blvd., Portland, OR 97232 503-236-6205 | allsaintsportland.com

Cathedral School Accepting applications now for the 22–23 school year Virtual Open House: cathedralschoolopenhouse.org School tours by appointment 110 NW 17th Ave., Portland , OR 97209 503-275-9370 | cathedral-or.org

Holy Cross Catholic School Apply now for the 2022–2023 school year Open House 2022: January 30 10:30 am–1:30 pm 5202 N. Bowdoin St., Portland, Oregon 97203 503-289-3010 | holycrosspdx.org/school

St. Clare School Accepting applications now for the 22–23 school year!

Open House 2022: Jan. 30, 12–2 pm 1807 SW Freeman St., Portland, OR 97219 503-244-7600 | stclarepdx.org

The Portland Montessori School offers highquality Montessori programming for children ages 15 months to 12 years-old. Visit our website for more information, and to schedule your personal admissions call.

St. John the Apostle Catholic School

205 NE 50th Ave. Portland, OR 97213 info@portlandmontessori.org portlandmontessori.org

St. Rose School

Open Enrollment Open House 2022: Jan. 30, 9:30 am–12:30 pm Feb. 1, 8 am–3 pm and Feb. 8, 2022 5–7 pm 516 Fifth St., Oregon City, OR 97045 503-742-8230 | sja-eagles.com

Accepting applications now for the 22–23 school year!

Open House 2022: Jan. 19, 6 pm (virtual) RSVP online to receive login info 5309 NE Alameda St., Portland, OR 97213 503-281-1912 | strosepdx.org

The Madeleine School - Grades K-8 Open House 2022: Jan. 30, 11:30am–1:30pm

Application deadline: Jan. 31, 2022 @ 4pm Financial aid available 3240 NE 23rd Ave., Portland, OR 97212 503-288-9197 | themadeleine.edu/school

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A Renaissance School of Arts and Sciences Learners actively engage in creative challenges, contribute to the community, and discover areas of personal interest for exploration. Critical and creative thinking, collaboration, and craftsmanship are hallmarks of our work.

234 S. Bancroft St. Portland, OR 97239 info@renpdx.org renpdx.org

Portland Village School Portland Village School is a public, Waldorf, K-8 charter school, enlivening academics with music, art, drama, movement, language and handwork for students from all backgrounds and cultures.

7654 N Delaware Ave. Portland, OR 97217 admissions@portlandvillageschool.org portlandvillageschool.org

TUTORING/ EDUCATION SERVICES Help Elevate Learning Processing, Inc.

Tucker Maxon School Tucker Maxon teaches children to listen, talk, learn, and achieve excellence together with a focus on communication, academics, and social and emotional intelligence. Our goal is to help every child reach their full potential in school and in life. Small classes. Huge outdoor space with goats, a treehouse classroom, greenhouse and solar energy. Tours available.

Open Houses 3/16, 4/21, 5/11

Your local midwife group Balancing the ancient art of midwifery and evidence-based medical technology.

Birth center, prenatal, postpartum and wellness care.

LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC inclusive and affirming.

2860 SE Holgate Blvd.

Portland, OR 97202 info@tuckermaxon.org tuckermaxon.org

PUBLIC & CHARTER SCHOOLS Multnomah Learning Academy - MLA K-8 Public Charter School

H.E.L.P. provides evaluations and a drug free Brain Power Program for those wanting improvement in Learning, Memory, Organization, Time Management, Productivity, ADHD and Dyslexia. A Not-For-Profit since 1984.

3185 Furman Dr. Marylhurst, OR 97036 info@helpadd.org helpadd.org

Kumon Math & Reading of Lake Grove Kumon is a supplemental learning program for students of all levels in math and reading/ writing. It has been in operation for more than 60 years and is offered worldwide.

16063 Boones Ferry Rd. Lake Oswego, OR 97035 kumon.com/lake-grove

Family Fun AMUSEMENT PARKS

MLA will provide a safe and enriching learning environment that pledges to support the academic and emotional wellbeing of all students.

www.almamidwifery.com

1608 SE Ankeny St, Portland OR 97214 | 503.233.3001 26

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MLA K-5 Elementary School 22565 NE Halsey St. Fairview, OR 97024 and MLA 6-8 Middle School 3240 S. Troutdale Rd. Troutdale, OR 97060 officeadmin@mla.k12.or.us mla.k12.or.us

North Clackamas Aquatic Park Make your next family outing or birthday party a splash at North Clackamas Aquatic Park!

Catch a ride in Oregon’s largest wave pool, zip down water slides and splash around in interactive fountains.

150 Beavercreek Rd. Oregon City, OR 97045 info@ncprd.com ncprd.com/aquatic-park/big-surf

POSITIVE, NURTURING, ENGAGING

Voice Lessons for Children Lessons and classes For kids age 8+  Member of OMEA and NATS  Over a decade of experience!  

Locations in Raleigh Hills and Hillsboro

www.animatevoice.com

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ATTRACTIONS Mt. Hood Ski Bowl Mt. Hood Skibowl, known as America's Largest Night Skiing Area! When the snow melts, Skibowl's Summer Adventure Park features over 20 attractions.

87000 U.S. 26 Government Camp, OR 97028 guestservices@skibowl.com skibowl.com

Two Sisters Play Cafe, LLC Cafe with an indoor playroom (kids play for a small fee). Offering breakfast and lunch including regular, gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options. Check website for private play and private party opportunities.

11923 SE McLoughlin Blvd.

Milwaukie, OR 97222 twosistersplaycafe.net

FARMS Triskelee Farm

Oaks Park Roller Rink Roller skating is perfect family fun for NW winters! Learn to skate at our classes, bring the little ones to Preschool Skate, or celebrate with a party package!

7805 SE Oaks Park Way Portland, OR 97202 info@oakspark.com oakspark.com

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Book a guided farm tour and interact with alpacas, goats, ostriches, horses, pigs and more! Add on horse rides for kids or drinks for the adults! Check out our parties!

29700 SW Mountain Rd. West Linn, OR 97068 triskeleefarm@gmail.com triskeleefarm.com

POOLS/WATERPARKS/ SWIMMING HOLES

DENTIST/ ORTHODONTISTS FOR KIDS

North Clackamas Aquatic Park Make your next family outing or birthday party a splash at North Clackamas Aquatic Park!

Catch a ride in Oregon’s largest wave pool, zip down water slides and splash around in interactive fountains.

150 Beavercreek Rd. Oregon City, OR 97045 info@ncprd.com ncprd.com/aquatic-park/big-surf

Health & Wellness

World Of Smiles Pediatric Dentistry World of Smiles Pediatric Dentistry has been making the greater Portland and Beaverton community smile since 2008. Dr. Michelle Stafford and her team are committed to inspiring children through a uniquely positive dental experience by creating an atmosphere of imagination, travel and adventure. Now serving kids, teens and the young at heart!

11790 SW Barnes Rd. Ste. 280 Portland, OR 97225 info@visitworldofsmiles.com visitworldofsmiles.com

GYMS/FAMILY FITNESS FIT4MOM A community of moms who support every stage of motherhood. From pregnancy through postpartum and beyond; our fitness and wellness programs help make moms strong in body, mind and spirit.

Multiple locations located around the Portland Metro Area, SE Portland, Beaverton/Bethany and Tigard/Lake Oswego ruthbraunhuber@fit4mom.com fit4mom.com

Mittleman Jewish Community Center MJCC offers a state of the art fitness facility, group exercise classes, personal training, standard lap and warm water pools, racquetball courts, massage services, sports, camps and cultural programs.

6651 SW Capitol Hwy. Portland, OR 97219 mjcc@oregonjcc.org oregonjcc.org

and Ready Set Grow A body positive, gender affirming, familyfocused movement studio specializing in pregnancy, postpartum, parents and kids.

Weekly yoga, dance and core classes; Regular parenting, childbirth and kids workshops.

Party rentals too!

5433 NE 30th Ave. Portland, OR 9721 info@andreadysetgrow.com andreadysetgrow.com

PEDIATRICIANS Connected Whole Health Connected Whole Health has brought together some of the brightest minds in sports medicine and chiropractic care to develop an evidence-informed approach to health and healing.

8000 NE Tillamook St. Portland, OR 97213 uwsconnectedhealth.com

Clackamas & Oregon Pediatrics From medical to behavioral services we are a "one-stop" solution to keeping your little one healthy physically and mentally.

8645 Sunnybrook Blvd., Ste. 200.

Clackamas, OR 97015 oregonpediatrics.com

Sellwood Medical Clinic At Sellwood Medical Clinic, you have access to top pediatricians committed to your child’s health. We offer telehealth, in-person pediatrician appointments and same-day urgent appointments. New patients welcome.

8332 SE 13th Ave. Portland , OR 97202 sellwoodmd.com

THERAPISTS/ COUNSELING Albertina Kerr Albertina Kerr is here 24/7 with life-saving children’s mental health services and essential support for children, teens and adults experiencing intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.

Farm Birthdays are the Best!

424 NE 22nd Avenue Portland, OR 97232 development@albertinakerr.org albertinaKerr.org

NW Pediatric & Family Nutrition We are a team of anti-diet dietitians supporting families, teens and adults to have a healthier relationship with food. We specialize in pediatric nutrition, eating disorders and intuitive eating.

5201 SW Westgate Dr. Bldg B, Ste. 100 Portland, OR 97221 nwpfnutrition.com

Looking for a fun birthday experience for kids of all ages and adults?

Check out our birthday packages!

Kids can ride horses and interact with farm animals like goats, alpacas, ostriches, pigs, bunnies, and more!

Triskelee Farm triskeleefarm.com | @triskeleefarm 503-741-9930 | 29700 SW Mountain Rd., West Linn pdxparent.com

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WOMEN’S SERVICES Alma Midwifery The sweet spot. Your local midwife group balancing the ancient art of midwifery with evidence-based medical technology. Offering water, birth center and home births alongside prenatal, postpartum and wellness care.

1608 SE Ankeny St. Portland, OR 97214 info@almamidwifery.com almamidwifery.com

Surro Connection Surro Connections is a surrogacy agency that helps guide Gestational Surrogates and Intended Parents through the journey of creating a miracle to help a family grow.

Lessons and Camps IN-PERSON Mad Science of Portland and Vancouver Interactive, hands-on science fun delivered virtually! Mad Science has been providing exciting, engaging learning fun for more than 20 years in the Portland area, now available online!

1522 N. Ainsworth St. Portland, OR 97217 info@madscienceportland.com portland.madscience.com

12817 Northeast Airport Way Portland, OR 97230 info@surroconnection.com surroconnections.com

Tucker Maxon School Now accepting applications for 2022

Open Houses 3/16, 4/21, 5/11 More info at tuckermaxon.org/enrollment

Preschool to 5th grade.

Academic excellence, and social and emotional intelligence. All at one school.

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GYMNASTICS CAMPS/CLASSES

OMEGA Gymnastics OMEGA has several programs that keep kids moving: Recreational classes for toddlers through pre-teen encouraging skill development and progression. Discovery Preschool program provides classroom learning for children ages 3-5 encouraging children to use their minds and bodies while learning social interaction. Activities Program offers Camps, Birthday Parties, and Parent’s Great Escape Nights for children ages 5-12.

9700 SW Harvest Ct., Ste. 180 Beaverton OR 97005 info@omega-gymnastics.com omega-gymnastics.com/camps

OUTDOORS

Willowbrook Arts Camp At Willowbrook campers create the world they envision, through arts. Having the experience and agency to explore through arts and nature, campers build a positive self-concept.

5855 SW Nyberg Ln. Tualatin, OR 97062 info@willowbrookartscamp.org willowbrookartscamp.org/about-wb

Trackers Earth Connect with friends while learning real outdoor skills with our expert Guides. Find your adventure in over 20 immersive themes including wilderness survival, archery, fishing and much more. Discover why so many parents and kids choose our award-winning camps.

SPORTS

4617 SE Milwaukie Ave. Portland, OR 97202 hello@trackersearth.com trackerspdx.com/youth/camps/summer-camp

K-Lean's Tennis @ Glendoveer Golf & Tennis

Tryon Forest Adventures Since 1970 Friends of Tryon Creek connects youth with nature through day camps and education programs at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Tryon Forest Adventures offers your child time to grow, learn and have fun outdoors. Weekly themes focus on water, plants, animals and community. Activities include hiking, storytelling, nature art and forest science exploration. Monday-Thursday.

Ages 7-12.

11321 S Terwilliger Blvd Portland, OR 97219 adventures@tryonfriends.org tryonfriends.org/forest-adventures

Glendoveer Golf & Tennis provides weekly group lessons, 2 hr, 4hr & all day summer camps for kids in tennis & golf. K-Lean's Tennis with Kaleen Worley, USPTA professional, provides a passionate and FUN learning tennis environment while teaching fundamentals, strategy/tactics, and much play for all ages and ability levels.

14015 NE Glisan St. Portland, OR 97230 k-leans.com

VIRTUAL Mad Science of Portland and Vancouver Interactive, hands-on science fun delivered virtually! Mad Science has been providing exciting, engaging learning fun for more than 20 years in the Portland area, now available online!

1522 N. Ainsworth St. Portland, OR 97217 info@madscienceportland.com portland.madscience.com pdxparent.com

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Professional Services

CONSIGNMENT STORES/SALES

FAMILY SERVICES

Beanstalk Children's Resale All Families Surrogacy All Families Surrogacy, LLC, is a compassionate and thriving gestational surrogacy agency based in Oregon, and recipient of the 2017 Better Business Bureau's Business of the Year Award. Our team -comprised mostly of experienced surrogates -- has a passion for helping to create loving families of all kinds.

12725 SW Millikan Way Beaverton, OR 97005 allfamiliessurrogacy.com

Grow and shop sustainably with Beanstalk!

Your neighborhood resale store has lots of options for your family, sizes preemie to youth 14. Shop in-stores or online at shopbeanstalk.com.

3527 NE 15th Ave. Portland, OR 97212 and 8021 SE Stark St. Portland, OR 97215 info@beanstalkpdx.com beanstalkpdx.com

KIDS CLOTHING/ SHOES

Shopping & Services BOOKSTORES Comic Cave PDX Comics in Kenton near the Paul Bunyan statue! Come and check out our detailed allages section and activities (pending pandemic needs).

1924 N. Kilpatrick St. Portland, OR 97217 comiccavepdx.com

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Beanstalk Children's Resale Grow and shop sustainably with Beanstalk!

Your neighborhood resale store has lots of options for your family, sizes preemie to youth 14. Shop in-stores or online at shopbeanstalk.com.

3527 NE 15th Ave. Portland, OR 97212 and 8021 SE Stark St. Portland, OR 97215 info@beanstalkpdx.com beanstalkpdx.com

Black Wagon A great place to shop unique prints and styles of sustainably sourced fashion for kids 0-14 years. A smart selection of toys, gear and accessories. Friendly and knowledgeable staff.

3964 N Mississippi Ave. Portland, OR 97227 sales@blackwagon.com blackwagon.com

Celebrating

20

Years!

Find more family fun at

pdxparent.com.

Sign up for our newsletter for exclusive content from our editors and visit our kids calendar for daily PDX fun:

pdxparent.com/ events-calendar.

Pennypuppets.com

Whatever your age, North Clackamas Aquatic Park is your destination for affordable, healthy and family-focused fun.

OUR POOLS HER ADVENTURE Find your healthy frame of mind at NCPRD.com

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SE Clackstop St. W Burnside St. Providence Park

The ’burbs: HAPPY VALLEY Families love exploring Hidden Falls Nature Park, a 21.3-acre forest with, you guessed it, a trail to hidden waterfalls.

Clackamas

Damascus

212

224

ANGEL A PRYOR

ERIN J. BER NAR D

For families ready to make the shift to suburban living, Happy Valley tops the list for its natural wonders and burgeoning food-and-drink scene. Three decades of exponential growth haven’t damped the friendly neighborhood feel of this thriving suburban city at Portland metro’s southeastern edge. The region tribes and bands, including the Kalapuya, the Clackamas and the Molalla, all of whom were later displaced. The city itself was incorporated in 1965 and remained sleepy till the ’90s, when families began arriving in droves. Among the recent-ish transplants: Angela and Damon Pryor, plus their 6-year-old daughter, Maggie; 3-and-a-half-year-old son, Grant; and a dog, Neil (pictured right). The Pryors dig modern Happy Valley’s proximity to natural and urban playgrounds alike: Mountains, farmland, pumpkin patches and fruit picking are close, but so are the lively vibes of inner Southeast Portland.

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70 minutes

Time to downtown on TriMet

With so much food and fun nearby, the Pryors find fewer and fewer reasons to hit up Portland proper. Angela Pryor recently even convinced her brother and his own family to relocate here from Finland. That, plus a pandemic-driven shift to working from home, has made life pretty happy, indeed: “We’re lucky enough to have careers where we can work remotely,” says Angela Pryor. “There’s no reason to live closer to downtown.”

what neighbors say

18 Walk score

39 Bike score

SOURCES: WALK SCORE, TRIMET

was originally inhabited and traversed by numerous Indigenous

ERIN J. BER NAR D

PDX Parent Picks

NOMINEES FOR 2022 Vote for your favorite family-focused people, places and spaces in the Portland-metro area. Here are the nominees for favorite Pediatric Urgent Care — a category we’re debuting this year. Vote for the full list of categories at pdxparent.com/ vote-2022.

play here

NOMINEES: Brave Care Columbia Clinic Urgent Care Legacy Go-Health Urgent Care Cedar Hills

live here

Shriners Hospital’s Walk-in Fracture & Sports Injury Clinic ZoomCare (pictured below)

$590,000

Median home price

$1,817

Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment SOURCES: REDFIN AND ZUMPER ZOOMC AR E

ERIN J. BER NAR D

Happy Valley offers endless, easy-to-access adventures, from the waterfall and trails at Hidden Falls Nature Park to the broad Mount Hood vista and lush paths up at Scouters Mountain Nature Park (pictured above) — a Pryor family favorite. “We love walking up there to get the kid energy out — hanging out in the grass, making daisy chains and enjoying the view,” says Angela Pryor. The Pryors also love the city’s network of parks, many connected to neighborhoods via scenic walking paths.

Says Pryor: “You feel like you’re in nature while you’re still in the neighborhood.”

eat here A recent influx of top-tier food and drink options has sweetened life in the suburbs. Conspicuously missing from local restaurants? The snob factor. (Sorry, Portland!) Residents congregate at Happy Valley Station Food Carts (pictured left), which peddles everything from Thai and Mediterranean food to craft beer, plus coffee and pastries at Le Petit Café (a spinoff of French bistro-and-bakery chain Petite Provence). Fat Cupcake satiates local sweet teeth, while Killer Burger serves up hearty, locally sourced burgers in a family-oriented-but-make-itrock-n-roll atmosphere. Angela Pryor also loves the vibes at the Whiskey Barrel Lounge. “We were sitting on the patio, and it was like, ‘Oh, wow, I could be in a Portland restaurant,” she says.

— Erin J. Bernard pdxparent.com

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Vibrant and Emotive Portrait Photography

MilanaGilliganPhotography.com @milanagilliganphoto

“I have a big place in my heart for Kerr after everything they have done for my daughter.

She now sees a path instead of an ending; she has hope!”

–Parent of a Kerr teen client

Kerr is here 24/7 with lifesaving children’s mental health services and essential support for children, teens, and adults experiencing intellectual and/or development disabilities.

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milanagilligan

Embrace the World.

The International School of Portland inspires cultural intelligence, curiosity, and kindness.

Since 1990.

Now Enrolling for In-Person Care

Toddler (15 - 30 months) Primary (3 - 6 year olds) Elementary (Grades 1-6) portlandmontessori.org

Visit intlschool.org or contact admissions@intlschool.org to find out more.

DAILY IN-PERSON TOURS AVAILABLE! VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 25 Chinese • Spanish • Japanese International Baccalaureate Preschool – 5th grade South Waterfront / Downtown

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OPEN HOUSE

Follow Us on Instagram Join us on our PDX Parent-ing adventures! In addition to timely updates on what’s happening around town plus all of our latest content, you'll find exclusive posts and stories from the PDX Parent team as we explore everything the area has to

Open to Learning and Growing Oregon Episcopal School, an independent pre-kindergarten to grade 12 day school, and grade 9 to 12 boarding school, is now accepting applications.

offer with our own kids. Take part in the conversation

@pdx_parent

IMPORTANT DATES IN 2022:

INFO EVENING

Info Evening Wednesday, January 5, 7 p.m. oes.edu/infoevening Lower School Application Deadline January 20 Middle and Upper School Application Deadline January 27

6300 SW Nicol Road | Portland, OR 97223 503-768-3115 | oes.edu/admissions

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AS SEEN ON

TRACKERS EARTH SUMMER CAMP 2022

Does your camp do all this?

Stealth

Archery

Wilderness Survival

Story Camps

Animals

Fishing

Boating

Climbing

Art Programs

We Do. Friends and Fun • Immersive Stories • Timeless Skills Creating memories and adventures with Portland families for over 15 years

Flexible Hours

Day & Overnight Camps

20+ Programs, Themes and Events

A Camp for Every Camper

Check-in 7:30-8:30am Check-out 3:00-3:30pm After Camp available until 5:30pm

Safety is our top priority.

Expert Guides lead outdoor adventures teaching authentic wilderness skills!

Wilderness Survival, Archery, Story Adventures, Farm Craft, Fishing, Boating, Climbing, Photography, Ceramics, Woodworking, Blacksmithing

Options for youth Grades K - 12 6 convenient locations for Portland families.

Plus, adult programs for parents!

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