Volunteering as a family, pg. 28
School Open Houses, pg. 13
FREE
Parenting apps FTW? pg. 16
for the long days and short years
Spring Forward! See a Show
Skip through the Tulips Book Summer
PDXPARENT.COM
Camps with our guide PORTLAND | VANCOUVER | MARCH 2020
contents Your kids will get plenty of time in nature at Mazama Wild Camps, more on page 39.
DEPARTMENTS
There’s an App for That.......16
Editor’s Note................................................................. 6
Homework help! Tidier
Play Room....................................................................... 8 Coastal whale watching and prepping meals for homeless Portlanders.
to-do lists! A new breed of parenting apps promises all this and more. But which are worth the gigs? By Kat Merck.
Bright Lights, Big Ideas.... 20 Performers young and old are ready to speak truth to power in Portland’s springtime shows. Here’s where to catch them in action. By Alexis Rehrmann.
PDX Parent Picks................... 26 Reader favorites for Lessons & Camps.
Time Out..........................................................................32 St. Patrick’s Day parades and parties, tiptoeing through the tulips, and Baby Shark swims to town.
Field Trip....................................................................... 28 Volunteer with Friends of Trees to restore green spaces. By Ali Wilkinson.
Parentlandia...............................................................34
Neighborhood We ♥.......................................... 29 We’re mad about Southwest Portland’s Maplewood neighborhood. By Joanna Close.
Special Section: Summer Camps.... 35
Family Supper.......................................................... 30 Beeswing is back! We grab a meal at the reincarnated family brunch stop. By Erin J. Bernard.
A comic for parents. By Tom Toro.
Your Map for Summer........................................... 37 Find camps tailored to your kids’ interests! By Sarah Vanbuskirk. Summer Camps Guide......................... 36, 42-76
RESOURCES
Recipe File.....................................................................31 The cheesy, GF goodness of pão de queijo.
School Open Houses........................................13-15
By Judith Rich.
* cover stories
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FEATURES
March 2020
5
Easy Peasy
R TREVOR PARKER
e d i t o r ’ s n ot e
for the long days and short years
ecently my husband’s siblings and their families flew to Oregon so we could enjoy a long ski weekend on Mount Hood. (OK, I don’t ski, but I enjoyed the time playing with my nieces and nephews when their parents hit the slopes.) Eager to make the most of their trip, my husband planned an itinerary. For the one morning that everyone would be in Portland, we discussed several options for going out for breakfast. (Had it been open yet, Beeswing, this month’s Family Supper spotlight restaurant on page 30, would have made the list!) With a 14-person group, dining out is doable, albeit tricky — especially with three 18-month-olds in tow. Ultimately we Keep It Easy 2020 means I’m not going to wrangle the kids into a decided that bringing home an assortment photo with me this month! from Henry Higgins, our terrific neighborhood bagel shop, would be the easiest option. My sister-in-law and I came up with a saying that became the weekend’s theme: Keep It Easy 2020. I’m not one for New Year’s resolutions, but this mantra is one I am sticking with. Keeping things easy means I have more time to enjoy visiting with relatives I only get to see once or twice a year. Keep it easy means I have more patience for my kids. Keep it easy, usually adds up to everyone in the family having a good time. I like to think that this issue of PDX Parent can help you Keep It Easy 2020. Especially when it comes to planning your kids’ summer camps. Writer Sarah Vanbuskirk lists a whopping 82 camps in Your Map for Summer on page 37. Whether your kids would be happiest crafting, coding or simply running around in our glorious summer sunshine, we’ve got several options for you to check out. Another way to keep things easy: Outsource to your smartphone. Writer Kat Merck test-drove three apps aimed at parents to find out if they delivered what they promised, page 16. Finally, need an easy activity the whole family will love? We’ve got a roundup of the best family-friendly entertainment hitting Portland stages this season. (What makes it easy? You get to sit down and enjoy a show while someone else entertains your kids!) Keeping it easy, doesn’t mean being lazy or letting your kids do whatever they want. It recognizes that we as parents have a lot on our plates. It’s about guarding our precious little time and deciding what is worth the effort and what is not. And it means taking into account our needs, too.
On our cover: Our joyful cover shot happened because Ranjani Ramakrishnan of Grace Photography called, “Come over to me!” Formerly an engineer, Ramakrishnan started her photography business after the birth of her daughter Ava Grace, now 2. “I wanted to offer quality pictures with an affordable price,” she says. Want a photo of your kid running through a field of blooms? She’s doing mini-sessions at Woodburn’s Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm again this year! Find out more at facebook.com/ gracephotographypdx. 6
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What is k for your tric ur yo g in mak parent life as a easier? My preschooler earns ping pong balls for doing things like bathing or hanging up her coat, which she then drops into a vase. Alternately, misbehavior means we remove a ping pong. When the vase is full, she earns a reward. It's a great visual motivator.
Fred Meyer store pickup is awesome for school party shopping — I had to get 10 tubs of ice cream, sprinkles, napkins, cookies and chocolate syrup for an end-of-the-year party and it was all ready and delivered to my car.
Points for chores Monday through Friday that translate to screen time on weekends only. No fighting during the week about screen time limits and chores get done!
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 Erin J. Bernard erin.bernard@pdxparent.com Art Director Susan Bard Web Director Michelle Carew, 503-914-6151 michelle.carew@pdxparent.com Eastside Account Executive Lauren Wylie, 503-331-8184 lauren.wylie@pdxparent.com Westside Account Executive Jill Weisensee, 503-309-8272 jill.weisensee@pdxparent.com Calendar Editor Briauna Skye McKizzie calendar@pdxparent.com Newsletter Editor Jake Weiss, 503-679-1763 jake.weiss@pdxparent.com Customer Accounts Manager Christie Kline, 503-810-9817 christie.kline@pdxparent.com Distribution & Digital Production Coordinator Melissa Light melissa.light@pdxparent.com 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 2020 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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SCIENCE FOR SOCIETY AND THE PUBLIC
SCIENCE FOR SOCIETY AND THE PUBLIC
p l ay r o o m
Kids to Know:
The Stem
Wizards If you’re like me and need an app to help your kids with their math
study engineering in college, focusing on electrical, mechanical or
homework (see page 18), these two Portland-area teens are
environmental engineering.
going to blow your mind. Rohan Wagh, a student at Sunset High School and Rupert Li of Jesuit High School are two of 40 finalists in the Regeneron Science Talent Search, the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and math competition for high school seniors. They’ll each receive at least $25,000 and a trip to Washington, D.C. If their projects go on to be chosen for top prizes, they could receive anywhere from $40,000 to $250,000. For his project, Rohan designed a low-cost, selfpowered, bacteria-based sensor for farmers to use to evaluate soil condition. If farmers are able to effectively determine soil condition with these sensors, it could lead to improvements in agricultural field irrigation and crop yields. He plans to use his
And Rupert submitted a math project that resolved an abstract algebra question concerning the “abelian sandpile model” to explore the underlying algebraic structure of a group. His creative approach to a specific type of mathematical model defined on graphs suggests a new approach that other mathematicians studying similar problems might find useful. “I love math because it is beautiful,” says Rupert. “I view mathematical research as the investigation of the very essence of reality, the fabric of the universe. Math transcends human history, culture, everything. So much undiscovered math lies out there, and I want to be a part of the community that unflaggingly strives to know more about the nature of the universe we live in.” Rupert plans to use his prize money to help fund college, where he will continue to study math. I
prize money to continue testing his project and eventually to
don’t even know these kids, but I’m so, so proud of them.
create a successful product for farmers to use. He wants to
— Denise Castañon
Good Deeds:
Prep Squad
You don’t need to see the latest statistics to know that Portland is experiencing a homelessness
crisis. You can see it with your own eyes. Want to help ease the burden for people experiencing homelessness? Gather your family and friends to volunteer with Transition Projects, an organization that’s been helping to shelter folks and get them into stable housing for more than 50 years. Kids 8 and older can be part of a squad that prepares and serves a meal to your houseless neighbors. One grown-up team leader must attend an orientation before the group’s first scheduled meal date, and Transition Projects needs at least a two-
SARAH IVY KINCAID
week notice before groups with kids come to volunteer.
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More fine print: For groups with ages 12 to 17, they require one adult for every four kids. For groups with ages 8 to 11, they require one adult per three kids. Find out more at tproject.org. — D.C.
DENISE CASTAÑON
Whale Watching on the Coast
OREGON STATE PARKS
Getaway:
Coming soon to a beach town near you: the springtime gray whale migration! You can spot these magical mammals year-round on the Oregon coast, but odds of a sighting are spectacularly good from March through June, when around 20,000 gray whales make their annual pilgrimage north from Baja, where they breed, to Alaska, where they feed. To celebrate this yearly passage, volunteers with the Whale Watching Spoken Here program will be posted at 24 designated locations along the Oregon and Washington coastlines during Spring Whale Watch Week, which runs Saturday, March 21 to Sunday, March 29, to help would-be watchers spot whales and offer insights about their habits and OREGON STATE PARKS
habitat. Our favorite spots: the bird’seye vantage points at Cape Disappointment State Park’s Lewis and Clark Interpretive
Center in Ilwaco, Washington; the panoramic deck of the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center, located in the Siuslaw National Forest in Yachats, Oregon; and the Depoe Bay Whale Watching Center, in Depoe Bay, Oregon, which adjoins the Depoe Bay seawall. Pro tip: In addition to the grays, you might also spot humpbacks and orcas as well as dolphins and porpoises from here. If climate-controlled whale watching is more your thing, head to Lincoln City and get a room. An interpreter will be stationed right in the sky-high lobby of the Inn at Spanish Head, while the nearby and more budget-friendly Ester Lee Motel offers rooms with soaring ocean views perfect for scanning the horizon for those telltale breaches and spouts. Pro tip: Bring your binoculars and watch the weather! Clear skies and calm seas raise your whale spotting prospects considerably. For more details on Whale Watch Week and a complete list of designated
TOP 5 ... spots where kids can cook ➊ Kids can learn everything from rolling sushi to baking scones at The Merry Kitchen, a drop-off cooking school. Weekend classes and camps available. Themerrykitchen.com.
➋ Cookshop
in SE Portland offers both adult and kid cooking classes. We’re especially fond of their family baking series, but be sure to check out their after-school classes and no-school day camps, which partner with Make Do Art Studio. Portlandcookshop. com.
➌ Find low-cost classes for the
whole family at nonprofit cooking school Feed the Mass, which focuses on teaching healthy cooking techniques. (But kids learning to make their own peanut butter or delicious pitas won’t even realize it!) Feedthemass.org.
➍ Portland Culinary Workshop’s wide range of offerings allows kids to try their
hand at French cuisine or baking cookies. Classes and camps for ages 6 and older. Portlandculinaryworkshop.com.
➎ Northwest Nibbles will start pop-up classes again this month at Beanstalk in Montavilla. Kid-centered classes cover everything from cupcake
whale watching locations, visit whalespoken.wordpress.com, or go to
decorating to making tortillas for tacos.
oregonstateparks.org and search “Whale Watching.” — Erin J. Bernard
Northwestnibbles.com. — D.C.
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p l ay r o o m
: Bookshelf
In honor of March’s
y t i n I F n I To nd o y e b d n a
vernal equinox (when the plane of the Earth’s equator lines up with the center of the sun), we asked Kim Tano and
Madeline Schier, the children’s book buyers
for Portland institution Powell’s Books, to gather a selection of books about space and the planets. Nerdy Babies: Space by Emmy Kastner Emmy Kastner’s new Nerdy Babies series revolves around a simple, but important message: Stay curious! In Space, babies MACMILLAN
and toddlers learn about our solar system with compelling, colorful artwork and simple
text. A perfect book for curious kiddos. $7.99. Professor Astro Cat’s Solar System by PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE
Dr. Dominic Walliman and Ben Newman
We love the Professor Astro Cat science series! In this adventure for ages 5 and up, we discover the wonders of our solar system and learn fascinating facts about each planet! Did you know that Mars has the tallest mountain in the solar system, almost three times taller than Mount Everest, or that Neptune was named after the Roman god of the sea because of its blue color? Have fun while learning together! $13.99. What Miss Mitchell Saw by Hayley Barrett and Diana Sudyka
Maria Mitchell, America’s first female professional astronomer, is chronicled in SIMON SCHUSTER
this visually stunning biography perfect for ages 6 and up. Maria explored the sky with her father at a young age, and in 1847 discovered a comet, known as Miss Mitchell’s Comet. She became the first woman elected Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Perfect for STEM/STEAM readers! $17.99. Sanity and Tallulah by Molly Brooks Readers ages 8 and up are sure to love this graphic novel space adventure! Best
Ask Dr. Doug
Q A
:H ow much should I be worried about the
coronavirus? It’s all over the news. Can we do anything to prevent it?
: I wouldn’t worry. Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that often cause the common cold. The one causing the outbreak in China is a new strain, so although we have some immunity to these types of viruses, we don’t have enough to not get sick in many cases. It causes symptoms we expect from a cold: fever, runny nose, cough, and in more severe cases, pneumonia and breathing problems. Although there is a lot about the virus we don’t know, early research suggests it infects children at a much lower rate, or at least children have a much milder Got a question for Dr. Doug? Send it to case without symptoms. A paper AsktheDr@pdxparent.com. published in The New England Journal of Medicine at the end of January described the first 425 people infected in Wuhan, and none were under age 15. The most recent data shows most people affected are in their 50s and 60s, and of those who go on to develop breathing problems and need ICU care almost all had another health issue such as diabetes or high blood pressure. However, there is a virus that is here in the U.S. already that children are dying from: influenza. This year over 19 million people have been infected and over 10,000 have died. Several children have died in Oregon and Washington this season. The vast majority of children who die from the flu are unimmunized. Influenza is not a common cold. It can make us miserable, with high fevers, congestion, vomiting and body aches for a week. In severe cases it can cause pneumonia, inflammation of the heart, swelling of the brain, and organ failure. Many people think, “The flu shot doesn’t work this year, so I won’t get it.” It’s true that each year we have to make an educated guess about which strains will be circulating, and some years that is a good match and some years it is not. But I’ve stopped thinking about the flu shot as making my family less likely to get the flu (although it certainly does) but as making us less likely to be hospitalized or die from the flu. Even if you are immunized and you do catch the flu, you will get better faster, be less likely to spread the virus, and be less likely to have serious complications from the infection. At Metro Peds we give flu shots to both kids and their parents for as long as we have the vaccine available to give, so get your flu shot if you haven’t already!
?
station Wilnick, where they get into the DISNEY BOOKS
usual sort of middle-school trouble: creating an adorable, illegal, three-headed kitten (Princess Sparkle, Destroyer of Worlds) in the station lab. When Princess Sparkle escapes, our intrepid heroes will need to turn the station upside down to find her — if the space kitten doesn’t live up to her name and wreak destruction first! $12.99.
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Dr. Doug Lincoln practices general pediatrics at Metropolitan Pediatrics in Happy Valley. He is board certified in both pediatrics and preventive medicine, with special interests in helping parents meet their breastfeeding goals, caring for neurodiverse children with behavioral health needs, and advocating for children via teaching and policy. As a dad of two boys, he understands the joy and hard work that comes with parenting. Find out more about Dr. Doug and Metropolitan Pediatrics at metropediatrics.com.
DR. DOUG
friends Sanity and Tallulah live on space
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Find your family’s next adventure with our
Kids ♼ Adventures coming April 2020!
Booking now! Contact your sales rep. Lauren Wylie 503-331-8184 Jill Weisensee 503-309-8272
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OPEN HOUSES
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OPEN HOUSES
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C H I L D C A R EO A PN EN D H PR OE US SC EH SO O L G U I D E OPEN HOUSES Cedarwood Waldorf School - 3030 SW 2nd; 503-245-1477; cedarwoodschool.org; 3/14/2020, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Franciscan Montessori Earth School- 14750 SE Clinton St; 503-760-8220; fmes.org; 3/10/2020, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM MSB - 11065 NW Crystal Creek Lane; 503-439-1597; msb.org; 3/19/2020, 6:00 PM Northwest Chinese Academy - 16860 SW Blanton, Aloha; 503546-3455; nwchineseacademy. org; 3/7/2020, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Scuola Italiana di Portland 1542 NW 14th; 971-270-0470; scuola.us; 2/29/2020 and 3/28/2020, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Trackers Forest School 4617 SE Milwaukie; 503-345-3312; trackerspdx.com; 3/19/2020, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Tucker Maxon School - 2860 SE Holgate Blvd; 503-235-6551; tuckermaxon.org; 3/18/2020, 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
TOURS A Renaissance School of Arts and Sciences - 0234 SW Bancroft; 971-221-2311; renpdx.org Cedarwood Waldorf School - 3030 SW 2nd; 503-245-1477; cedarwoodschool.org Childswork Learning Center - 4235 SE Salmon; 503-234-3611; childswork.org CLASS Academy - 2730 NW Vaughn; 503-223-9099; classacademy.com Franciscan Montessori Earth School and St. Francis Academy - 14750 SE Clinton; 503-760-8220; fmes.org
Guidepost Montessori at Beaverton - 9945 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy, Beaverton; 503-567-1844; guidepostmontessori.com Hancock Street Co-op Preschool - 1624 NE Hancock; hancockstreetpreschool.com International Leadership Academy - 14788 Boones Ferry, Lake Oswego; 503-662-8452; ilapdx.org The International School 2305 S Water; 503-226-2496 x100; intlschool.org The Madeleine School 3240 NE 23rd; 503-288-9197; themadeleine.edu/school The Marylhurst School - 19915 Old River, West Linn; 503-6500978; themarylhurstschool.org MSB - 11065 NW Crystal Creek Lane; 503-439-1597; msb.org Multnomah Playschool 5500 SW Dosch; 503-244-9141; multnomahplayschool.com Portland Jewish Academy 6651 SW Capitol Hwy; 503-244-0126; pjaproud.org The Portland Montessori School - 205 NE 50th; 503-6882992; portlandmontessori.org Portland Play Project - 6015 NE Skidmore St.; 740-590-9141; portlandplayproject.com Prince of Peace Preschool and Kindergarten 14175 NW Cornell; 503-645-1211; princeofpeaceschool.com Scuola Italiana di Portland - 1542 NW 14th; 971-270-0470; scuola.us Small Friends School 7475 SW Oleson; 503-388-2266; smallfriendsschool.com St. Agatha Catholic School - 7960 SE 15th; 503-234-5500; stagathaschoolpdx.us
French American International School - 8500 NW Johnson St.; 503-292-7776; faispdx.org
St. Clare School 1807 SW Freeman; 503-244-7600; stclarepdx.org
German International School of Portland - 3900 SW Murray, Beaverton; 503-626-9089; gspdx.org
St. John the Apostle Catholic School - 516 Fifth, Oregon City; 503-742-8230; sja-eagles.com
Goodtime Chinese School 15285 NW Central, Ste 201; 503-616-5585; goodtimechineseschool.org
Trackers Earth Portland 4617 SE Milwaukie; 503-345-3312; trackerspdx.com; Add’l Location: 2334 NE 57th Ave Portland, OR 97213 pdxparent.com
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, There s an App for That Better parenting through smartphones? That’s the claim of a new generation of family-friendly apps, which promise to improve the way you do everything from math homework to grocery shopping. But which are worth the download? BY KAT MERCK
I
f it seems like you and every parent you see spend most of your waking hours with your face in a smartphone, it’s not a figment of your
imagination. According to a recent Common Sense Media report, parents of kids ages 8 to 18 spend nearly nine hours of their day consuming “screen media,” which
includes everything from playing video games to scrolling Facebook and Twitter, plus interacting with apps. Most of us don’t need to be told this is not the most productive way to spend our time, but what if some of those screen hours could actually make us better parents? More patient, more organized and perhaps even better at math? That’s precisely the promise of three popular parenting-oriented apps recommended by multiple blogs and national newspapers. We had to wonder, does their usefulness stand up to their claims? Are the benefits worth the extra screen time? We used each one for a month to find out.
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COZI FAMILY ORGANIZER Free for basic version, $29.99/year to unlock all features. Apple/Google Play.
THE CLAIM: “The surprisingly simple family organizer/You’ll wonder how you managed life before Cozi.” Tech website CNET calls it the “best app you’ve never tried” — a shareable, color-coded calendar that provides your entire family’s to-do lists and activities at a glance. While not a parenting app per se, Cozi was clearly designed with parents in mind, trumpeting its status as a “3-time Mom’s Choice Award Winner” and serving as a sort of organizational clearinghouse for everything from grocery and contact lists to school and sports schedules. “Wow, I thought this was actually going to suck!” shouted my husband from the next room, after downloading Cozi (family accounts are linked) and familiarizing himself with the surprisingly long list of features, including integration with Google Calendar and the option to receive an email every day at 5 am with that day’s schedule and to-do list. Unlike many organizational apps, Cozi’s free version is perfectly serviceable, with the ability to maintain a calendar with color-coded events for each family member, multiple grocery lists
(additions to which can be set as alerts on a family member’s phone), recipes and to-do agendas. The “Gold” paid version allows for the user to view calendars by month (instead of only by week) and search for specific events, as well as build a shareable address book, features which, after consistent use of the app, I found worth the $29.99. It also offers optional seasonal add-ons, which in January included a 31-day plan to “conquer clutter,” a family mission starter list, and 30 recommended tasks for January, which included “order batteries online,” “buy a year’s worth of birthday cards and stamps,” and “paint that room (you know the one).” COZI
In terms of usefulness, Cozi blew our current household organizational system — a hodgepodge of Google Calendar, a Cornell Lab of Ornithology promotional calendar tacked to the inside of our pantry, and frequently misplaced Post-it notes — out of the water. As is the case for many type-A moms, most of the emotional labor involved with keeping organized — remembering when library books and homework are due, knowing friends’ and family members’ birthdays, maintaining shopping and contact lists — falls to me. With Cozi, my husband can now share the burden. He now has access to all of the same information I do (and, most importantly, he knows that I know that he does), and gets automatic alerts on his phone when, say, we’re out of bananas or swim class is canceled for the day. We also now have ongoing shared lists for Costco, Trader Joe’s, Amazon and Home Depot (the other person is notified when items are added), as well as alerts for when library books, bills and homework projects are due, so excuses like “I didn’t know” and “I forgot” — from either of us — are about as believable as a child who cleans their room the first time they’re asked. I do know how I managed family life before Cozi: poorly. Would recommend to a friend: YES.
BRIGHT PARENTING
Free version with limited access, $4.99/month or $39.99/year unlocks all content. Apple/Google Play. THE CLAIM: “Discover the great parent in you! Better parenting in just 2 minutes a day.” Personalized and evidence-based lessons for parenting kids ages 2 to 10 sent via push notifications to your smartphone. The premise of Bright Parenting is undeniably appealing to most busy caregivers: Why wade through dozens of books and in-person classes when you could receive a distillation of expert parenting advice each day, right on your phone, at a time you’ve chosen? Somewhat like Duolingo, the wellknown language-learning app, Bright offers a library of topics from which one can choose à la carte and then complete (for me, mother of a 7-year-old boy, the app — accurately — recommended lessons such as “Why Kids Whine,” “Why Kids are Disrespectful,” and “Getting Kids to Listen”), as well as a Daily Practice: a shorter, seasonally relevant lesson targeted to your kids’ ages. I excitedly downloaded Bright, identified by an orange “B” icon, scrolled through the orientation and recommended lessons (many of which I promptly forgot) and chose 10:45 am to receive my alerts, thinking it would be a good time each day to take a break from work. This was, I would later come to discover, a big mistake. Like most working parents, I am inundated nearly 24 hours a day with emails, texts and app alerts, and one more notification needing my attention — which, as it turned out, was not always relevant to my current parenting struggle(s) — during working hours just about upset the applecart. A few weeks after downloading the app, I was simultaneously holiday shopping at Fred Meyer, checking work emails, and texting one of my son’s friend’s parents about a playdate when the dreaded Bright text message-like alert popped up on my phone. “Want easy holiday fun?” the header announced cheerily, punctuated with Christmas tree and scissor emojis. “Try this craft with your kid!” Deeply annoyed, I clicked through to discover Bright was suggesting tracing and cutting 25 hands out of green construction paper and gluing them onto KAT MERCK cardstock to make a wreath. This was the last straw. I needed a glass of wine just thinking about guiding my constantly active 7-year-old through an afternoon of draconian preschool busywork. Unfortunately, this was a near-daily occurrence with Bright installed on my phone; I was never not annoyed to see the alert. I’m not sure if changing the alert time would’ve helped, either, because when I do have the time, patience and headspace to focus on and absorb parenting advice, I’d rather it be more targeted to something specific I’m struggling with. Like finding more time. Would recommend to a friend: NO.
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PHOTOMATH
PHOTOMATH
Free. Apple/Google Play. THE CLAIM: “Math superpowers for every student.” Read and solve mathematical equations in real time using your smartphone. At first blush, Photomath sounds like a teacher’s — and parent’s — worst nightmare, as well as something I would have given my life savings to have as a student in the 1980s: a “photo calculator” that takes a picture of a math problem and instantly produces the answer. The app is almost shockingly simple: Open it and place the adjustable finder window over a math problem. Push the red photo button and voilà — the answer, along with solving steps, appear immediately. “Is Photomath a cheating tool?” reads an FAQ point on the app’s website. While the answer does acknowledge that “there are
optimal methods of using Photomath,” to the app’s credit, each answer comes with step-by-step instructions and sometimes even a video tutorial of how the captured problem was solved. Thankfully, this is extremely relevant to me as a parent to a public-school child using Bridges in Mathematics, the K-5 Common Core curriculum so convoluted to my nearly-40-year-old mind that even the first-grade homework is akin to interpreting ancient runes. Unfortunately, Photomath isn’t much help with Bridges’ fondness for word problems and games involving pennies and dominoes, but for actual equations, from algebra to calculus, the capture window can be expanded as far as needed vertically or horizontally, and the step-by-step instructions can be a helpful memory jogger for a parent who, say, hasn’t done more than calculate a tip percentage since the Clinton administration. (Not naming names.) Would recommend to a friend: YES.
Kat Merck is a freelance writer and editor in Camas, Washington, who indeed has not done more than calculate a tip percentage since the Clinton administration.
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, s t h g i L t h g i r B s a e d I g Bi Spring stages boast spectacular shows for families — from musical romps to historical deep dives — take your pick of theater, music or dance. Plus, learn about the kindie performers who are crooning to a new generation of resisters. BY ALEXIS REHRMANN
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DAVID KINDER
Seussical May 2–31 Northwest Children’s Theater
Most enjoyed by children ages 4 and up
Oh, the Thinks You Can Think!
Fresh Talent: Kids Onstage
This May, get ready for some madcap magic as Northwest Children’s Theater brings the kid crowdpleaser Seussical to their stage. “Dr. Seuss tapped into something magical in his work and his rhyme and illustrations translate so beautifully to the stage,” says John Ellingson, NWCT associate artistic director. He is designing sets and props for Seussical and hints at some puppetry magic, too. The musical brings Seuss stories and characters together in one rollicking romp that includes songs and silliness, Horton the Elephant, and of course, the Cat in the Hat. Darren Sze plays JoJo, the youngster who goes on a grand adventure with the show’s iconic Cat. “JoJo likes the mystery and the wildness of the Cat,” says the 14-year-old actor. “The Cat lets JoJo use his thinks — and his imagination — whenever and however he wants.” Seussical gleans its magic from the power and freedom of imagination. “This is a beautiful story for the theater,” says Heath Hyun, who plays the Cat in the Hat. “It lends itself to a collaborative spirit. It starts on a blank stage — a space where imagination and images get to come alive.” With any great adventure there are moments of joy, jokes, drama, and some small scares. Younger kiddos should beware the bad monkeys (and a kangaroo). But never fear, the Cat is there — and he’s very funny. “If it ever gets too scary the Cat is there to reassure you that we’re going to be OK,” says Ellingson. Seussical is a big, fun blast of a standard box musical, and this staging offers refreshing twists in inclusive casting. Two of the leading actors are of Asian descent: Sze is Asian-American and Hyun is KoreanAmerican. “It's important," says Hyun. “I really appreciate that theater companies are making room for all stories in the ecosystem. There’s room for all kinds of stories in a season — for all communities to feel like stories of theirs are being represented.” “We wanted to do what was right for our audience. It’ll be a better show, a more fun show, with people of different sizes, looks and sounds,” explains Ellingson. “We believe that you don’t ever have to do what’s been done before, ever.”
This spring, there’s new talent onstage in Portland — kids and teens are bringing excitement and focus, passion and real chops, to the stage. Here are three great reasons to check out these up-andcomers. The performances are exciting — because the performers are excited. “Everything is like a world premiere to them. There’s an immediacy to their BEV STANDISH CELLO SECTION performance that any audience can sense,” says David Hattner, musical director of the Portland Youth Philharmonic. Hattner conducts the Portland Youth Philharmonic, 100+ young musicians ranging in age from 11 to 18. “The youngest ones can look like very small children, until you see them play,” says Hattner. “Then you know that you’re in the presence of great music.” In March, they will perform Brahms Fourth Symphony. But young classical musicians are not the only performers to put their incredible hard work on display. Just ask M’Liss Stephenson, director of JCo and NEO, two companies of young dancers at Polaris Dance Theatre. Her dancers range in age from 9 to 18. “I find myself extremely proud all the time,” she says. “There’s such a responsibility to themselves and to their peers — to be strong students, to be considerate and thoughtful, be strong peers, to work hard.” At PYP, Hattner sees that responsibility POLARIS DANCE THEATRE translate to an audience of young people. They sit up and pay attention. “Our musicians are doing this remarkable job creating an ensemble out of 100 people,” says Hattner. “Kids in our audience think, ‘this is right here in town, we’re in the same room with them, I could be doing that.’” Art is a way to communicate — and it’s time we hear what Portland’s young artists have to say. “Music is an outlet to express feelings and emotions,” says Hattner. “Adults are not good at listening to what young people have to say. It’s incumbent upon us adults now to reconsider that — because my young musicians make a lot more sense than a lot of adults right now. ”
ALSO PLAYING
Elephant & Piggie’s, We are in a Play is touring in Portland, Hillsboro, Sherwood, Salem and Gresham, March through May. For tickets and information, check out nwcts.org.
Portland Youth Philharmonic Brahms Fourth Symphony Saturday, March 7, 7:30 pm Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall Best for ages 7 and up Youth String Ensemble Cushion Concerts MUSIC Sunday, March 8, 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm Cascade Ballroom at The Oregon Zoo For ages 2 to 8 Family Concert Saturday, May 9, 2 pm IRCO Community Center All ages For tickets and information: portlandyouthphil.org.
Polaris JCo + NEO Show Saturday-Sunday, April 25-26 Polaris Dance Theatre Polarisdance.org.
★
DANCE
Oregon Ballet Theatre Annual School Performance Saturday-Sunday, June 13-14 Newmark Theatre Obt.org.
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AARON NIGEL SMITH
Children’s music today goes way beyond the ABCs. Family musicians are tackling issues of social justice, inequity and inclusion in songs for preschoolers. Take the Alphabet Rockers’ politically pointed song, Walls, which protests U.S. immigration policy in its catchy hook: “These walls can’t stop the love/These walls can’t hold us down.” Even Raffi, the elder statesman of kinder song, has something urgent to say. Sure, he still croons classics like Baby Beluga, but he also delivers potent messages of inclusion in newer songs like Love Grows Love. Portland musicians are in on the act, too — delivering great music and big messages to their pint-sized audiences. We talked to two local children’s musicians to find out more. Kids and families are leading the charge, according to Andy Furgeson. “Kids and youth are engaged and energized in a way that they’ve never been before. It calls on me to step up my game — to try to address bigger issues,” says Furgeson, who performs as Red Yarn, the folk and family music powerhouse. “I’m grappling with how to talk to my kids about this stuff, too.” Inspired by the strong women in his life, Furgeson adapted the lyrics to an old folk song and wrote Old Hen Cackled, which casts the hen as a political activist. Last year, Aaron Nigel Smith’s politically minded all-ages album In Our America topped the Reggae Billboard Charts. In his children’s music, Smith uses imagination and play to introduce ideas of social justice. “It’s about making space for kids to explore ideas in their own time and at their own pace,” says Smith. “There’s hope yet, if we hold space for the kids. They really have more of the answers that we’re seeking than we realize.” Their respective genres also inspire both these musicians to speak out. Smith and Furgeson both work in traditions that have long lent voices to protest movements. Think of Bob Marley’s reggae anthem Get Up, Stand Up, or the folk songs of Pete Seeger. “There’s a long tradition of folk music speaking truth to power,” says Furgeson. “Some of the most potent, powerful protest music today is being made for kids and families.” In truth, the act of making music together can feel like an act of social justice all by itself. “Music is a leveler,” says Smith. “It creates equality in a very organic sense.”
AARON HEWITT
Social Justice for the Juice-box Set
Where to find them: Red Yarn performs in Portland three times a week. “I do a lot of stripped down live performances. It’s just me and my boots stomping out the rhythm section,” says Furgeson, who performs with a host of puppet critters and is sometimes accompanied by his wife, Miss Jessie. His new album is due late this summer, so keep your eyes out for a big band show! Redyarnproductions.com.
“I take making music for youth very, very seriously,” says Aaron Nigel Smith. He’s working on a live greatest kids’ hits album recorded with children’s choirs in Los Angeles and New York. Watch for his forthcoming video series, the Big Up Show, made with Portland kids. Aaronnigelsmith.com.
AARON NIGEL SMITH
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“Kids are more aware of what’s going on in the world than we were when we were growing up,” says Dmae Roberts, who directs The Journal of Ben Uchida, playing at Oregon The Journal of Children’s Theatre this month. Ben Uchida: “It’s a children’s show, but I consider it a whole family Citizen 13559 show.” February 29 to The play is a fictional story based in a real, dark moment March 22 in American history. Set in Oregon Children’s Theatre 1942 after the bombing of Best for ages 10 and up Pearl Harbor, it traces the tale of 12-year-old Ben and his family: Japanese-Americans who are incarcerated in internment camps. “They took largely American citizens and told them they have no rights,” says Roberts. “Then they give them a number. In this play, Ben is given a number.” She is quick to point out that the conditions in the play, written by Naomi Iizuka, still echo in today’s headlines about border separation. During WWII, Japanese-Americans were forcibly sent to camps, many out in the middle of the desert. They were allowed to bring what they could carry — two suitcases and whatever they could wear. In these internment camps, which many survivors call concentration camps, families like Ben’s lived in small, cramped spaces, separated from other families only by hanging sheets. While incarcerated, people lost homes, businesses and property. From designers to actors, many of the artists working on The Journal of Ben Uchida have a cultural connection to this “This show deals with very real subjects — the disintegration history. “It really helps move the process along,” explains of a family because of circumstance, how kids are often kept in Roberts, who is Asian-American and biracial. For example, Ben’s the dark,” says Roberts. Now might be the time to have big, brave, mother is sweeping and mentions the dust. “For people who have conversations that wrestle with our own history and what it this family history, there’s an immediate understanding,” she adds. means to be Americans. “This isn’t just a play about history,” says “Oh, my mother complained about that, too. It was so dusty, you Roberts. “It’s about not repeating history.” were sweeping all the time.” The Journal of Ben Uchida uses historically accurate language, which includes racial slurs and includes content that may be difficult for younger audience members. Oregon Children’s Theatre offers a discussion guide available for families to download before or after the show, and talkbacks are planned following some performances; visit oct.org for details. For further resources, Roberts also recommends the Japanese American Museum of Oregon: oregonnikkei.org. And a companion book list is also available through Green Bean Books.
OWEN CAREY
Real Talk for Real Kids
ALSO PLAYING
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show March 28 to May 17 All ages The Last Stop on Market Street May 2-31 Best for ages 5 and up
Alexis Rehrmann is a writer and editor whose work has appeared in The New York Times and Portland Monthly magazine. She studied theater at NYU, where she majored in directing and being a theater nerd and she is delighted to share this love of performance with her child, and yours. pdxparent.com
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For a complete list of your Winners and Top 5 Picks, visit pdxparent.com/picks-winners
WINNERS Save the date for our family festival!
PDX Parent Celebrates the City Oaks Amusement Park Saturday, June 20, 10 am-2 pm. Stay tuned to pdxparent.com for details.
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Lessons & Camps 2020
The voters have spoken! Over the next few months, we This month: Lesson & Camps. Camps Find the complete list of AFTER - SCHOOL CLASSES Winner Trackers Earth Portland Multiple locations, trackerspdx.com Why plop your kids down with a tablet after school when they could visit an indoor archery range or practice hearth craft at a kid-calibrated makerspace? The evergrowing Trackers course catalog offers almost 20 indoor and outdoor after-school programs guaranteed to educate and excite the K-12 set. Pro tip: If your kids’ school is located within 15 minutes of its Southeast Portland campus, Trackers
JINGZI ZHAO
offers transport.
Top 5 Mad Science of Portland and Vancouver
DANCE CLASSES
Northwest Children’s Theater and School
Winner Oregon Ballet Theatre School
Oregon Children’s Theatre
Multiple locations, school.obt.org
Portland Early Learning Project
Whether your tiny dancer is already doing pointe work or simply loves leaping about the living room in a tutu to The Nutcracker Suite, The Oregon Ballet
Saturday Academy
Theatre School’s programs will help them level up. Kids connect imagery with movement as they explore classical dance fundamentals in pre-ballet and primary ballet sessions. More experienced dancers study technique, repertory and improvisation in workshops and intensives — all under the tutelage of patient, top-notch instructors.
Top 5
ROCK - CLIMBING OR OBSTACLE GYMS Winner
BodyVox Dance
The Portland Ballet
Center for Movement Arts
Westside Dance & Gymnastics Academy
NW Dance Project
The Circuit Bouldering Gym Multiple locations, thecircuitgym.com Put your kid’s climbing skills to good use (safely!) at repeat Picks winner The Circuit Bouldering Gym. The gym’s instructors
SWIM INSTRUCTION Winner Portland Parks & Recreation
Top 5
Multiple locations, portlandoregon.gov/parks/play
Children of the Sea Swim School
environment also makes it fun for kiddos
DolFUN SWIM Academy
Top 5
Nothing says Portland childhood like taking lessons at the neighborhood Portland Parks & Recreation swimming pool. (A repeat winner!) Parents love the affordable and fun lessons so much there is often a wait list. Pro tip: Be sure to check the website
Farber Swim School
age-appropriate way. And the team-like to learn the ins and outs of climbing.
Forge Parkour Planet Granite
you don’t get a spot, remember they do offer swim
Multnomah Athletic Club
Stoneworks Climbing Gym
lessons all year round.
SWIMBABES™
Skyhook Ninja Fitness
to enroll on the first day registration opens! And if
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help your kids dial in technique, strength and problem-solving skills, all in an
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Portland Rock Gym
e’ll be spotlighting the winners of our annual readers’ poll. f winners at pdxparent.com/picks-winners. SPORTS CLASSES Winner
Portland Parks & Recreation Multiple locations, portlandoregon.gov/parks/play Tumbling class for wiggly preschoolers, check. 5K training for elementary-school-aged kids, check. Tennis classes for teens, check. With its multitude of sports classes for a wide range of TRACKERS EARTH
ages, Portland Parks & Recreation has got your family covered. And no doubt the affordable prices and convenient neighborhood locations in all quadrants of the city are more reasons our readers voted PPR to the top spot for sports
SUMMER & WINTER CAMPS
classes for another year in a row.
Winner Trackers Earth Portland
Top 5
Multiple locations, trackerspdx.com
North Clackamas Parks & Recreation District
Journey into the PNW wilds with Trackers! From forest fishing and woodworking to archery and survival training, these day and overnight camps deliver guided outdoor adventures designed to empower curious kids. Explore our magical backyard with the Realms of Cascadia and Forest Ninja sessions, jumpstart imagination at the Wizards
Portland Lil’ Kickers Rose City Futsal Soccer Shots Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District
Academy, or try out blacksmithing — options are endless, and flexible check-in and check-out times are the cherry on top.
Top 5 Cedarwood Waldorf Friends of Tryon Creek OMSI - Oregon Museum of Science & Industry
Portland Parks & Recreation
Oregon Zoo
Winner The Children’s Gym
Top 5
1625 NE Sandy Blvd., thechildrensgym.com
The Circus Project
If you’re looking for a gym that encourages kids to
Echo Theater Company
level up at their own pace as they progress through a diverse roster of thoughtfully designed classes,
Playground Gym
check out the Children’s Gym. Beginner courses
Tumble
help newer and younger students hone imagination, socialization and self-regulation skills as they learn the basics; the more advanced classes emphasize strength, work ethic and critical-thinking chops, plus
PORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
GYMNASTICS CLASSES
Westside Dance & Gymnastics Academy
plenty of that all-important independence. pdxparent.com
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field trip
For more ideas for fun outings, visit: pdxparent.com/ field-trip.
Keep Portland
Green
Plan a family-volunteering session planting trees and shrubs with Friends of Trees. STORY AND PHOTOS BY ALI WILKINSON
F
riends of Trees has been around for 30 years, and in that time volunteers have planted more than 800,000 trees and native shrubs in Oregon and Vancouver. They may be best known for planting trees in neighborhood sidewalk strips, but they also do plantings in green spaces to restore natural areas. My kids are hard-core animal-lovers, and so they were all about restoring natural areas. Which led us to Columbia Children’s Arboretum on a cold and rainy Saturday morning in January, ready to make things a little cheerier for the resident beavers and great horned owl. When I say cold and rainy, I mean it. I was nervous the kids were going to go into full-on complaining mode. But 30 years of volunteer coordination means that this organization knew just how to make chilly kids happy. Doughnuts. The answer is doughnuts. (Isn’t it always doughnuts?) And a little hot chocolate didn’t hurt either. After sugaring up, it was time to get suited up. We had come prepared in rain boots and raincoats, and Friends of Trees supplied work gloves and shovels. Both gloves and shovels came in all sizes, fitting everyone from my 5-year-old to my husband and me, whose ages I shall politely decline to reveal. Properly equipped, we were ready to learn about our project! There were about 100 people at this event, and so we were split off into multiple smaller groups, each planting different native species. Our group got to plant low Oregon grapes and salal. We learned a bit about these plants, and then dug into how to plant them. (Sorry, couldn’t help myself.) We were shown how deep to dig the hole, how to tap the plants in, how far they should be spaced, and how to mulch. No watering cans were necessary on this outing!
After the demo, we were so ready to get going because, yay, planting! And also, wow, did I mention it was cold? Although the kids were mildly disappointed they didn’t get to plant a tree this time, planting the smaller shrubs ended up working out great, especially given my kids’ ages (5, 7 and 9). Not as much muscle power or time was required to get these plants in the ground — we only needed to dig out a few shovelfuls of dirt before the plants would easily fit. This was highly satisfying for my results-driven children, with our family of five planting about 35 plants in just a few hours. The event began at 9 am and went until 1 pm, but we bowed out at 11:30 am to keep the event fun and engaging for everyone. My oldest would have kept going until the end, but the effects of the doughnut had worn off for my youngest. If you have been thinking of volunteering, but are unsure about doing it with kids, Friends of Trees is a great place to start. After the initial introduction and demo, you are largely left on your own. That means you don’t need to feel bad if your kid needs to take a break. Or eat a doughnut. Or leave early. Or see who can get the muddiest boots. And everyone was incredibly welcoming and enthusiastic to have little hands to help out. We were stopped several times to be shown an especially fat worm, or to look at a piece of beaver chew. Also, it was really fun, even with the cold. There is something very satisfying about the process of planting, and it felt even more satisfying knowing that our efforts would be seen by thousands of people for years to come. Including us — we plan to come back this summer to see how our little guys are faring.
Know before you go: Friends of Trees’ planting season runs from October through April. Browse their volunteer schedule at: friendsoftrees.org/volunteer. Children of all ages are welcome, but ages 6 and up are recommended for green-space planting, and 10 and up for neighborhood trees. Children under 15 must have a guardian present.
Ali Wilkinson is a Portland-based writer, lawyer and mother of three kids (ages 5, 7 and 9). She's also the co-founder of PDX Kids Calendar. 28
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♥ neiGhborhood we
Meet me in Maplewood A
BY JOANNA CLOSE
mile neighborhood is regularly walked by its
SW 45 AVE.
SW 52 AVE.
PLAY HERE Although a car is a near-necessity to leave the area, this less-than-1-square-
SW 60 AVE.
lmost exclusively a residential neighborhood, Maplewood in SW Portland is unknown to many, but beloved by its residents. Sandwiched between Multnomah Village and Garden Home, this neighborhood has easy access to family-friendly resources and recreation, other SW VERMONT ST. Portland enclaves, and tons of suburban amenities.
SW M
APLEWOOD
RD .
SW MULTNOMAH BLVD.
residents — rain or shine — often with strollers and four-legged friends in tow. Maplewood residents love
its green spaces. The well-hidden April Hill Park is a
JOANNA CLOSE
neighborhood gem, with soccer fields, a play structure for young children, and boardwalk access to Fanno Creek. There are no sidewalks, but a few “secret” paths called “snickets” wind through the neighborhood knolls, and the streets are dotted with Little Free Libraries. Just beyond the formal boundaries but still
The Jones family has lived in Maplewood
within walking distance is the 91-acre Gabriel
for nearly six years. They came mostly for
Park and the Southwest Community
the proximity to OHSU, and plan to stay
Center (SWCC) to the west, and the Garden
for the close-knit community feel. They
Home Recreation Center and Fanno Creek
particularly like the nearby parks and
Trails to the east.
schools, that their neighbors are friendly, and that there are lots of opportunities for kids to meet and play together. David Jones says: “It’s so walkable — not in the HEATHER JONES
getting-anywhere sense — but there’s LIVE HERE
$524,656: Median home value
such little traffic, it’s basically insular from cars. I feel comfortable with my daughter walking to her friends’ houses or school.”
1,129: N umber of households
GETTING AROUND
76% owner-occupied, 24% rented
About 60 minutes to central downtown via bus line 1 with no transfers.
SOURCES: ZILLOW, CENSUS BUREAU
25
Trimet score
28
Walk score
40
Bike score
SOURCE: WALKSCORE.COM
$2,273: Median rent
EAT HERE Built in 1911 as a post office and general store, Maplewood Coffee & Tea
attracts local residents and visitors alike. In addition to breakfast and lunch, they offer
seasonal dinners as well as beer and cider on tap. On SW Vermont Street just across from SWCC, Driftwood Coffee is owned by local Maplewood mom Kara Powell and offers a
JOANNA CLOSE
cozy atmosphere to enjoy a honey lavender or cardamom latte and shop for artisanal gifts.
Although technically outside of Maplewood proper, across SW 45th Avenue is family-favorite Laughing Planet, just a few doors down from the locally owned Sunny’s Legendary
Frozen Yogurt — the first-and-only Oregon Kosher-certified fro-yo shop.
Despite complaining about the dreary days all winter long, Joanna Close stays west of the Cascades primarily because of the Maplewood community. pdxparent.com
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fa m i ly s u p p e R
The Bee’s Knees
Brunch staple Beeswing has decamped for Sellwood-Westmoreland. On the menu: dynamic, expertly balanced staples, served up with a hearty welcome. STORY AND PHOTOS BY ERIN J. BERNARD
A
When it was our turn to order, I selected the smoked trout hash ($13.50), while Emiliano picked biscuits and gravy ($12.50) and a magical-looking maple doughnut ($3.50). In keeping with a New Year’s resolution, Emiliano and I also shared a cup of decaf ($3.75). Gabi, who is (mostly) GF, chose the kids’ granola ($6).
(fine, most) of the maple glaze, which was rich and complex and paired perfectly with the coffee. Emiliano’s biscuits and gravy bucked the standard PDX presentation of soggy biscuits drowning in a cardiac-arrest-inducing gravy ocean. Instead, a manageable portion of house sausage gravy let the buttery biscuits shine, and the bed of creamed kale — hearty and dotted with tangy mustard seeds — straight-up stole the show. My hash was also standout. The potatoes (Yukon gold and sweet), which came julienned in a veggie medley that included pickled onions, really tamed the salty trout. That hash was so perfect, in fact, that I pushed my (just OK) poached eggs aside to focus on it exclusively. The milk for Gabi’s granola came served in a cute little ceramic pitcher. Bucking convention, she immediately chugged the entire pitcher, then ignored the actual granola, her appetite spoiled by the pre-brekkie snack and the maple-glaze licking. Attentive servers checked on us repeatedly, despite opening-day crowds, and the DIY coffee bar made refills easy. The meal was satisfying without being heavy, and Gabi was impressed enough by the experience to announce: “I wanna be a cooker when I grow up!” Aside from the lack of changing tables, this is an uncommonly family-friendly spot: High chairs dot the dining area, which reverberates with excited yelps and occasional crying fits, and nobody bats an eye if a kid (not mine!) runs a mid-meal lap around the dining area to blow off steam. Our take? The brand-new Beeswing retains what made it special for families the first go-round: a chill atmosphere and a diverse, lovingly curated menu emphasizing beautifully balanced plates. Just come prepared to wait a little … and then maybe a little more.
While we waited for our food, we sipped that (unexpectedly good) decaf, and Emiliano dug into the doughnut. Gabi and I licked off some
If you go: Beeswing, 6716 SE Milwaukie Ave. Daily, 8 am-3 pm, 503-477-7318, beeswingpdx.com.
fter months of social media buzz, it’s finally happened: Beloved brunch stop Beeswing, whose Cully location was forced to close last summer, has reopened in the Sellwood-Westmoreland storefront that formerly housed Laurelwood Brewing. Curious about this second coming, and just a little hangry, my husband, 3-yearold daughter and I rolled up at 8 am on Beeswing’s first day back in business to see about breakfast.
For more family-friendly restaurant reviews visit: pdxparent.com/ family-supper
Though the Tapatio was arriving just as we did and the OLCC license was still in the works, that old Beeswing vibe was definitely in play: airy, casual, and abidingly unflustered.
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My heart sank a little when I saw that Beeswing would again offer counter service, which always feels to me like waiting twice: first to order (while standing, perusing a menu, corralling kids and eliciting orders as you watch the seating area fill up); and then again once you finally sit down and get everybody sorted. Even with a smallish crowd, we waited almost 20 minutes to order — a long time for a preschooler like my daughter, Gabi. My husband, Emiliano, plied her with a strategic snack while I waited in line, star-struck by the baked goods glistening beneath the counter glass: delectable doughnuts, salted cookies and cheese-and-charcuteriespeckled biscuits. As I am currently avoiding grain and dairy, I focused on the official menu, which offers a dynamic brunch spread, peppered by Beeswing’s signature culinary twists. Think: sourdough waffles, breakfast burgers and Japanese-style fried chicken (karaage). Also available: Gluten-free toast and buns, alternative milks, and a small-but-serviceable kids menu with staples like eggs, waffles and a burger; plus some very exotic-sounding house cocktails. (If you try the spicy grapefruit margarita, please report back!)
Managing Editor Erin J. Bernard still doesn’t understand the difference between brunch and breakfast, but as long as eggs and potatoes are involved, she’s none-too-concerned about the distinction. March 2020
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Savor the light and chewy texture of Brazilian pão de queijo with this quick, kid-friendly recipe. STORY AND PHOTO BY JUDITH RICH
O
riginally hailing from New York, I sorely miss all the multicultural food I used to have at my disposal — especially my beloved pão de queijo, or as we in our household affectionately call it, “cheesy bread.” The idea of making this gluten-free snack was at first intimidating, but after getting inspired by an easy recipe I found on the back of the Bob’s Red Mill tapioca flour bag, it proved fun and essentially foolproof. My daughter Edie enthusiastically helped me prepare the cheesy bread, as she too is an avid fan. The best part: This recipe only calls for six simple ingredients and it doesn’t require any special equipment — making it extra easy for little helpers to do their thing. Edie especially loved pouring the dough into the greased mini-muffin tin and was super careful not to let the cups overflow. The ones that did overflow a bit turned out even better (and fluffier) than the ones we filled up the “right” way. Once we popped these out of the oven, they didn’t last long. Pro tip: If they get a little hard after some time, pop them in the microwave for a quick 10 to 12 seconds. They’ll be warm and delicious again!
Easy Cheesy Bread
Pão de Queijo (Brazilian Cheesy Bread)
Directions 1. Generously oil the mini-muffin tin.
Makes 24 bite-sized pieces
2. Preheat oven to 350˚F.
Ingredients
3. In a large bowl, whisk the milk, oil, egg and salt.
cup milk cup vegetable oil 1 egg
4. Add the tapioca flour gradually until blended and smooth and then mix in the cheese.
1 ½ cups tapioca flour, such as Bob’s Red Mill
5. Fill each muffin cup with the batter, about ¾ of the way full. (If you accidentally fill it to the top, it’ll still come out great).
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
24-cup mini-muffin tin
7. Remove from cups with an offset spatula. Let cool for 5 minutes and serve warm.
½ teaspoon salt
Judith Rich creates kid-inspired recipes and writes about her family’s dining-out adventures in the Portland-metro area in her blog, Eaty Pie, eatypie.com. pdxparent.com
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time out
Looking for an impactful way to celebrate Women’s History Month (March) and International Women’s Day (March 8) with your littles? Make those signs and banners, dress in your boldest colors, then get out and march for the rights of womxn everywhere at the 2020 Womxn’s March & Rally for Action. This permitted, familyfriendly event, held in solidarity with women’s marches around the country, also pays tribute to Portland’s own past — the good bits as well as the bad — and to the brave Portland womxn of all colors and ages who have spoken out to advance the causes of political, social and economic equality. March for your family, march for fun, march for the future! Sunday, March 1. 12 pm-3 pm. Portland State University, Park Blocks, downtown Portland. For details, visit womxnsmarchpdx.com. Free.
coming to a stage near you
EMPORIUM PRESENTS
$ /pdx_parent/ |
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Go. Play. Explore.
all together, now
won’t you be my neighbor? Join Daniel Tiger, O, Katerina, Prince Wednesday and more as Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live takes the stage in Portland. This interactive musical show is sure to delight preschool fans of the PBS TV series with stories of friendship and helping others. Just the thought makes us want to move to the Neighborhood of Make-Believe.
Watch young actors shine as Journey Theater rolls out three fantastic family-friendly musicals this month. Follow Ariel’s quest for true love in Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Fridays-Sundays through March 8 at Imago Theatre in Portland. Catch everyone’s favorite ogre and his band of fairytale misfits as they journey to save a princess in Shrek the Musical, Saturdays and Sundays, March 7-15, Alder Creek Middle School, Milwaukie. And finally in The Secret Garden, an 11-year-old orphan discovers the wonders of her uncle’s English estate including a magical garden. Fridays-Sundays, March 13-22, Washougal High School, Washougal, Washington. Visit journeytheater.org for times and to purchase tickets.
Friday, March 6, 6 pm. Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. Find tickets at portland5.com.
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groove is in the heart A dance party with a full orchestra? Sounds good to us! This month’s Oregon Symphony Kids’ Concert will feature music to get you and your kids on your feet. We can’t wait to see what kind of dance costume narrator Pam Mahon shows up in! (Flamenco? Ballet? Hip-hop?) Dance West will also be there to show off some moves and Pacific Youth Choir will raise their voices. Sunday, March 8, 2 pm. Visit orsymphony.org for tickets.
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DEEN VAN MEER
! /pdxparentonline
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( @pdx_parent
March 2020
cold snap You know the story — estranged sisters, powerful magic, a guy with a reindeer fetish and enough love to unfreeze a principality. And that amazing soundtrack! Now see it all live as Frozen hits Portland as part of the Broadway Across America series. Your kids will be flabbergasted by the special effects, sensational sets and costumes, and standout performances. March 5-22. Keller Auditorium. Visit frozenthemusical. com/tour to view dates and times, and purchase tickets.
meet and greet Show your support for our
Kids can enjoy face-painting, Irish songs, and a Penny’s Puppet show at The Oregon Irish Society’s 79th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration. Tuesday, March 17. Free for ages 2 and under; $4 for ages 3 to 18; $12 for adults. Kids’ events run from 3:30 pm-7 pm. St. Aquinas Hall. 340 NE Clackamas St. St. Patrick’s Day at Kells Irish Pub is a Portland tradition, and the pub’s downtown location features a family day on Sunday, March 15, from 9 am-4 pm. Enjoy music, dancing, crafts, and, of course, some sweet bagpipe action. Free. 112 SW 2nd Ave. Dress up in your greenery and march in the Sellwood-Moreland St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival — or just cheer from the sidelines as the Sellwood Middle School Marching Band and Portland Metro Youth Pipe and Drum pound out some joyful noise, amid a stream of decorated bikes and wagons. Afterward, feast on Irish fare and check out the carnival. St. Agatha Catholic School, 7960 SE 15th Ave. Saturday, March 14. 12 pm-5 pm. For details, visit stagathaschoolpdx.us/st-patricks-day. Free parade entry. Hillsboro’s Murphy’s St. Patrick’s Parade features a colorful procession of equestrian entries, youth dance teams and bagpipe ensembles. Families are also encouraged to march! Hare Field, 1151 NE Grant St., Hillsboro. Saturday, March 14. 11 am- 12 pm. $20 entry fee to march. For details, visit murphysfurniture.net. For the runners, Portland’s long-lived Shamrock Run offers plenty of family options, including the stroller-friendly Shamrock Stride — a 4-mile fitness walk winding over the Tilikum Crossing and Steel bridges. Runners 10 and under will get a kick out of the 1K Leprechaun Lap, while older, more experienced runners can join the 5K, 8K and 15K runs. Pro tip: This event gets rowdy — especially at the beer-soaked finish line. Sunday, March 15. Races start at downtown’s Waterfront Park. For tickets, times and schedules, visit shamrockrunportland.com.
community’s newest Americans at Portland Parks & Recreation’s Portlanders STAND with Refugees & Immigrants celebration. All are welcome to share camaraderie and enjoy live music and dancing at this multicultural community gathering. You might even spot Mayor Ted Wheeler there. Thursday, March 19, 6 pm-8:30 pm. Southwest Community Center, 6820 SW 45th Ave. Free admission. Food for purchase. RSVP at facebook.com/ events/299156067668858.
ERIN J. BERNARD
ST. PATRICKS SELLWOOD-MORELAND PARADE AND FESTIVAL
it’s easy being green!
doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo!
Looking for accessible events for kids of all abilities? Check out
an accessible and inclusive digital directory
tulip fever Try to recreate our cover shot by snapping a photo of your child running through a rainbow of colors at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm’s annual Tulip Fest. Walking through the gorgeous fields is a great activity in and of itself, but there’s also a children’s play area, photo cut-out boards, and the jouncy cow train ride or the cushy tulip train tour for an additional fee. Pro tip: Weekends bring even more activity options — and bigger crowds. Friday, March 20 to Sunday, May 3. MondayFriday: $5 per person (maximum $20 per SHORE FIRE MEDIA
Hey, toddler and preschool parents! If watching your kid rock out to the two-minute “Baby Shark” video set to repeat on YouTube for the duration of the past year wasn’t enough to send you over the edge, this just might: The viral Baby Shark song has been reimagined into a full-fledged immersive concert experience — Baby Shark Live — and it’s headed straight for Portland. Your littles can sing, clap and bounce in the undersea ambiance during this 80-minute live-action show starring, of course, Baby Shark and his pal, Pinkfong, who roam the open seas in search of adventure (and prey). But don’t worry, this concert offers more than just an hour-anda-half straight of the Mother of All Earworms; that ageless, ceaseless ditty will be broken up by kid classics like Jungle Boogie, Five Little Monkeys, and Wheels on the Bus. Friday, March 27. 6 pm. Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. For details, visit babysharklive.com.
car); Saturday-Sunday: $8 per person (maximum $30 per car). Get more info at woodenshoe.com.
at pdxparent.com/inclusive-pdx-events-calendar. pdxparent.com
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pa r e n t l a n d i a
"I approach my subjects with an almost childlike sense of wonder."
Tom Toro is a freelance cartoonist and writer whose work appears in The New Yorker, Paris Review, American Bystander and elsewhere. His debut children’s book, How to Potty Train Your Porcupine, will be published in May 2020 by Little, Brown. His fiction writing has been shortlisted for the Disquiet International Literary Prize. Tom is currently developing an animated TV show, and finishing a graphic memoir about becoming an artist during turbulent times. He lives in Portland with his wife, preschooler and cat. To see more of his work, visit tomtoro.com.
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SUMMER CAMPS
SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE 2020
SKATE LIKE A GIRL PDX
Confidently roll into summer like Sophie at Skate a Like a Girl skateboarding camp. Find out more on page 41!
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for
Your
Map
Summer BY SARAH VANBUSKIRK
Nothing says summer like swimming, strawberries, s’mores, warm
nights, and a week (or more) of camp. Just like strawberries, summer camp experiences are so much better when you pick the right ones. We’ve scoured the options and created a huge list of 82 local camps — and organized them by category. Whether your kid wants to make movies, score some goals or adventure
MAZAMA WILD!
in the great outdoors, you’ll find the right camps here. pdxparent.com
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Arts Camps
Find out more
Kids who want to immerse themselves in a unique range of mediums will love Grace Arts Camp, where choices include fused glass, ceramics and more. Fiber, folk and nature art are all themes at VIBE of Portland art camps. The Pacific NW College of Arts’ SmARTworks (ages 4 to 11) and Design.labs (ages 12 to 14) programs let kids cultivate their creativity. Art camps at Children’s Healing Art Project (CHAP) encourage kids to get messy — and help provide healing art experiences for other kids and their
THE CIRCUS PROJECT
families. Or try out dance, music, theater, visual arts and more at MetroArts Inc.
grace-institute.org/ grace-art-camps vibepdx.org pnca.edu/academics/ community-education/ youth-courses chappdx.org metroartsinc.org/kids-camp
JOURNEY THEATER ARTS GROUP
Music and Drama Camps
Movement Camps Kids can channel a prima ballerina (or a modern, jazz or hip-
School of Rock, Hoffman Academy Portland, and
hop dance diva) at Oregon Ballet Theatre School, NW
Youth Music Project camps provide opportunities for
Dance Project and The Independent Dance Project. Fearless budding jugglers, aerial dancers and trapeze artists will find their tribes at Echo Theater Company and The Circus Project. Kids will say, “namaste” to
camps at Imagination Yoga. Middle-school girls discover
mindfulness, journaling, and their inner yogis at Devi Girls
yoga camps. Oregon Gymnastics Academy camp shows mini-gymnasts how to flip, jump, somersault and fly. Find out more
Northwest Children’s Theater and School, Oregon Children’s Theatre and Portland Drama Club all foster the talents of burgeoning thespians. At the Summer Camp for Kids + Teens at NW Film Center, budding filmmakers will write, direct and star in their own movies. Find out more
locations.schoolofrock.com/portland/music-camps
nwdanceproject.org/education/youthdance/
portland.hoffmanacademy.com
idppdx.com/summer-camps
broadwayrose.org/drama-camps
thecircusproject.org/camps imaginationyoga.com devigirls.com/events ogagym.org
JECT
Rose Theater, Journey Theater (in Vancouver),
school.obt.org/summer-programs
echotheaterpdx.org
THE CIRCUS PRO
kids to jam and sing to their hearts’ content. Broadway
youthmusicproject.org journeytheater.org/day-camps nwcts.org/summer-camp-2020 octc.org/summer-class-schedule portlanddramaclub.org nwfilm.org/learn/summer-camp-faqs
Language Camps Kids 6 to 12 can learn Japanese and Chinese through interactive games, songs, and stories at Bodhi Tree Language Center camps. Schoolita Alegria is the perfect place for preschoolers to practice Spanish while enjoying games, crafts, gardening and other fun activities. If French is your kid’s thing, they’ll find it at the French American International School’s summer program. They can get their German on at the German International School’s bilingual summer camp.
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SUMMER CAMPS
General Camps Eclectic summer camp fun can be had at Steve and Kate’s, where kids can crochet, bake bread, throw pies, play sports, build, do karaoke, and so much more. Kids can spend a week at the Portland Children’s Museum, exploring such topics as science, water, art, nature, clay, fossils and engineering. Swimming, art, sports, rock climbing and cooking PORTLAND PARKS AND RECREATION
are on the menu at Mittleman Jewish Community Center camps. Kids can access a huge range of quality camps (from sports to dance to academics to outdoor adventures) run by Portland Parks & Recreation, North Clackamas
Find out more
steveandkatescamp.com/portland
ncprd.com/summer-camps
portlandcm.org/summer-camps
thprd.org/activities/summer-camps
oregonjcc.org/camps-childcare/daycamp
ci.oswego.or.us/parksrec/parks-recreationsummer-camps
portlandoregon.gov/parks/play
Parks & Recreation District, Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District, and Lake Oswego Parks & Recreation.
Nature / Outdoors Camps Spend a week soaking up the great outdoors with the engaging nature camps (from archery to hiking) offered by the Portland Audubon Society. At Friends of Tryon Creek camps, kids will discover the secrets of an urban forest. Kids can choose from wizardry, fishing, fire-making, blacksmith, ranger, paintball, kayaking, and much more at Trackers Earth Portland. Hike, rock climb, and commune with nature on Mount Hood and in Portland at Mazama Wild Camps TRACKERS EARTH
(overnight options offered for campers 8 and older). At Tualatin’s Willowbrook Arts Camp, kids will engage in creativity (music, performing arts, visual arts, puppetry and more) en plein air. Find out more
audubonportland.org
Find out more
bodhitreecenter.org/btc/ indexChildrenSummer.dhtml schoolita-alegria.com/summer-camp
faispdx.org/parent/summer-programs gspdx.org/extended-programs
tryonfriends.org/day-camp trackerspdx.com/youth/summer-camps.php mazamas.org/mazamawild willowbrookartscamp.org
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Academic Camps Saturday Academy offers camps in just about every academic subject you can imagine, such as medical careers, SAT prep, chess, speech, organization, problem-solving and programming, as well as lots of nonacademic courses. Explore creative writing and journaling in the wilds of Mount Tabor with Write Now! High school writers can hone their craft at Lewis & Clark College’s Fir Acres Writing Workshop. You’ll find an impressive range of enriching academic, sports, and creative courses at Oregon Episcopal School, Catlin Gabel School, St. Mary’s Academy and Central Catholic High School. Find out more
saturdayacademy.org/catalog writenowportland.com/summer-camps.html college.lclark.edu/programs/fir_acres/campus iD TECH
oes.edu/summer catlin.edu/academics-more/upper-school/student-resources/summer-camps
STEM Camps Kids can spend a week getting hooked
stmaryspdx.org/academics/summer-program centralcatholichigh.org/athletics/2019-summer-camps.html
on science at Mad Science of Portland/ Vancouver, where they’ll learn about everything from environmental science to robotics. OMSI has plenty of STEMbased camps, such as forensics, animation and coding. But they also offer overnight beach trips and camps on caring for exotic pets. Coding with Kids teaches kids key
computer and coding skills. Camp Invention spurs kids to become inventors. Gamers will relish a week of coding, game development, robotics and design with iD Tech at Lewis & Clark College. The TEK Center camps
dodgeball, bouldering, Nerf battles and more. Girls Build camps empower girls, putting tools in their hands and giving them the opportunity to plan and make a variety of cool
SARAH PEMBERTON
offer 3D printing, Minecraft, robotics, coding,
functional projects, such as lamps and clocks. Aerospace engineering anyone? Check out
Overnight Camps
Engineering for Kids of Portland Metro. find out more
portland.madscience.org/parents-nsd.aspx omsi.edu/camps-and-classes codingwithkids.com/#!
Girls will have the backpacking adventure of a lifetime with She-Wolf Adventure Camps. Classic summer camp fun with weekly themes like the Olympics, Percy Jackson, Pokemon Go!, and Star Wars can be had at YMCA Camp Collins. Kids can play along the Sandy River at Camp Fire Columbia’s Camp Namanu. Enjoy cabins along the Oregon coast, tug-of-
invent.org/programs/camp-invention
war, kayaking, and more at Camp Westwind. Experience the majesty of
idtech.com
gorgeous pools and towering trees at the Opal Creek Ancient Forest
pdxkidscamp.com girlsbuild.org/summercamp engineeringforkids.com
Center’s backpacking camps. Find out more
shewolfadventure.org
westwind.org
ymcacw.org/camps/ymca-camp-collins
opalcreek.org/workshops-expeditions/
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programs
SUMMER CAMPS
Sports Camps Kids will get sweaty, hone their skills, and have a blast at the multisport camps offered at VillaSport (Beaverton), BaxterSports, and Summer Skyhawks. Budding tennis and golf pros can polish their skills at K-Lean’s Summer Tennis & Golf Camps at Glendoveer. Kids can learn to shred at camps offered by The Lumberyard (BMX), Skate Like a Girl (skateboarding), and Stronger Skatepark (skateboarding). Future ninjas will scale every obstacle at Forge Parkour and Urban Warrior. MLS stars-in-training can hone their skills at Portland Soccer Camp, Bernie Fagan Soccer, Lil’ Kickers, Portland Timbers, and Rose City Futsal camps. Kids will take their b-ball skills to the next level at Breakthrough Basketball Camps. Cyclist-enthusiasts will enjoy a week of biking fun with Pedalheads (they offer swimming and other sports as well). Find out more
villasport.com/beaverton/ kids/camps/summer-camps baxtersports.com skyhawks.com k-leans.com lumberyardmtb.com/ summer-camps SKATE LIKE A GIRL PDX
skatelikeagirl.com strongerskatepark.com/ camp
portlandsoccercamp.com/ content/contact-us
URBAN WARRIO
urbanwarrior.fit/for-youth. html
R
forgeparkour.com/camps
berniefagansoccer.com lilkickers.com/lil-kickers-programs/camps timbers.com/youth/camps rosecityfutsal.com/camps breakthroughbasketball.com/camps pedalheads.com
Animal-Lover Camps Kids can get up close and personal with all their favorite wildlife at the Oregon Zoo summer camps. Saddle up for equestrian fun at Aurora’s River Ranch and French Hill Farm Riding
Academy. Experience the pleasures of life on a
farm at Zenger Farm Camp (kids will love eating from the garden and petting chicks) and Old
MacDonald’s Farm (home to over 30 farm animals, including horses, chickens, ducks, pigs, goats, and sheep) features a junior vet program. At Sauvie Island
Center’s farm camps, kids will explore soil, harvest from the garden, and learn about farm and wildlife creatures. And pet-lovers entering third grade and up can help care for shelter animals at Oregon Humane Society’s summer camps. Find out more
oregonzoo.org/discover/camps-classes-and-programs riverranchhorses.com frenchhillfarm.com/summer-camps zengerfarm.org/summer oldmcdonaldsfarm.org/product-category/2019-camp sauvieislandcenter.org/visit/summer-camp oregonhumane.org/services/student-programs/camp
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ACADEMICS/ LEARNING SKILLS/ TUTORING Delphian School
SUMMER CAMPS
Summer At Delphi
Summer at Delphi is the perfect blend of learning, challenge and fun. Study in the morning to avoid the summer slide, then attend specialized camps in the afternoon.
UMMER
GUIDE
Ages: 5-18 Cost: $980 -$8,154 Dates: Jun 28-Aug 7 Reg. Deadline: Apr 1 20950 SW Rock Creek Rd Sheridan, OR 97378 503-433-2928
AMPS
2020
Acting for Kids & Teens Acting for TV & Film
info@delphian.org summeratdelphi.com
Girls Count Girls Count provides hands-on math camps designed just for girls. Our camps will give you the tools you need to succeed in math, all while having fun. All levels welcome! Ages: Entering grades 3rd through 8th Cost: $260 Dates: Multiple weeks from Jun 15th to Jul 13th Reg. Deadline: Jun 1 5441 SE Belmont St Portland, OR 97215 info@girlscountpdx.org girlscountpdx.org
Saturday Academy Saturday Academy summer camps are here! Our camps offer hands-on opportunities designed to inspire curiosity in science, technology, engineering, math and the arts. We look forward to seeing you there! 5000 N Willamette Bl Portland, OR 97203 503-200-5858
Portland Jewish Academy PJA Summer Discovery
iD Tech Camps at Lewis & Clark
Students learn to code, design games, mod Minecraft, engineer robots, and more! Your child can make friends as they master new skills, and join a community of 450,000 iD alumni. Ages: 7-17 Cost: Cost varies by course, date, and location Dates: Jun-Aug Reg. Deadline: No deadline to register, but space fills quickly 0615 SW Palatine Hill Rd Portland, OR 97219 888-709-8324 hello@iDTech.com idtech.com/locations/oregonsummer-camps/lewis-clark-college
PJA’s Summer Discovery Program offers enriching classes from experienced, professional teachers who are excited to teach topics and themes with passion. Teachers incorporate STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) in the classes to enhance learning. Kids spend time outside learning, playing and going on adventures! Exercise your brain, explore and discover in a fun and nurturing way. Ages: Ages 4-15 Cost: $195 - $225 per week Dates: Jul 6-31 6651 SW Capitol Hwy Portland, OR 97219 503-244-0126 office@pjaproud.org pjaproud.org
ARTS & CRAFTS/ VISUAL ARTS/ FILMMAKING Art Literacy Academy Summer Camp
info@saturdayacademy.org saturdayacademy.org
Exploring the World Through Art - Summer Art Camps for grades 1st-4th . The class emphasizes the connection of nature to art, with lessons in drawing, painting, sculpture and printmaking. Ages: 1st-4th grade Cost: $250 per session + $25 registration/materials fee
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Dates: Jun 22-26, Jul 27-31, Aug 10-14 Reg. Deadline: Open now / subject to availability ( 10 students per session) 2828 SE Stephens St (Colonial Heights Presbyterian Church) Portland, OR 97214 971-312-4904 sepia84@hotmail.com artliteracyacademy.com
Acting for Kids & Teens has an amazing lineup of summer acting for TV & Film camps! Favorites like Make-AMovie, Teen Intensive, SNL Inspired workshop & more! Open to ALL - No acting experience necessary! AFKT is an encouraging, inclusive space to be creative and have fun! Easy payment plans. Use code pdxsummer, get 25% off your registration *excludes MakeA-Movie. Ages: 9+ Cost: Varies Dates: Jun-Aug 1633 NW Glisan Portland, OR 97209 503-806-0909 info@actingforkidsandteens.com actingforkidsandteens.com
Catlin Gabel School Through storytelling, imagination, and creative exploration, campers light up their connections with the sky through hands-on, choice-based art studios, including ceramics, fibre, printmaking, music, dance, theatre, and more. 8825 SW Barnes Rd Portland, OR 97225 503-297-1894 artcamp@catlin.edu catlin.edu
Children’s Healing Art Project (CHAP) CHAP Summer Workshops-Weeklong and CHAP Dailies 1-day workshops available! Children of all abilities will learn across mediums from a variety of skilled Guest Artists in CHAP’s fun and whimsical environment! Ages: Ages 6 - 12 Cost: $160 Per Session $270 for 2 sessions $50 for dailies per participant per day
summer theater camps
register today!
june 15 - aug 21 503-222-2190 • nwcts.org 1819 NW Everett St • Portland
Dates: Sculpture Arts: Jul 28-Jul 31; Visual Arts: 8/4-8/7; CHAP Dailies: 8/11-8/14 8065 SE Grand Ave Ste 160 Portland, OR 97202 503-243-5294
Dates: Various- see site Reg. Deadline: Start of camp 211 SE Madison St, Ste #3 Portland, OR 97214 971-801-8157
info@chappdx.org www.chappdx.org
info@portlandcraftbar.com portlandcraftbar.com
Cherry Street Films
Summer Filmmaking Camp at PCC Sylvania Looking for a fun, fast paced filmmaking teen program? Get the kids out of the house, off the screens and behind the camera! Activities range from production planning, cinematography, hands on camera and gear tutorials, screenwriting, project management and so much more. These young media creators work in small teams to produce short films to share with their communities! Ages: Ages 11-17 Cost: $350-$599 Dates: Camps starts July 6th. 8 weeks of camp to chose from. Reg. Deadline: Enrolling Now - Limited Availability PCC SYLVANIA - 2000 SW 49th Ave Portland, OR 97219 206-747-2370
Lewis & Clark College
Fir Acres Writing Workshop At Fir Acres Writing Workshop, HS students from across the country come together for two weeks to write and join a community of writers living on the beautiful, wooded campus of Lewis & Clark College in Portland. In daily Workshops, participants study great writing and produce their own under the guidance of published faculty. Ages: Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders Cost: $3250 Dates: June 21-July 4 Reg. Deadline: May 15 0615 SW Palatine Hill Rd Portland, OR 97219 503-768-7932 firacres@lclark.edu go.lclark.edu
travis@cherrystreetfilms.com cherryst.org
Crafty Mindz
Summer Arts and Activity Camps Our week-long theme bases camp includes both art and craft activities and field trips. We offer full-day and half-day camps, with daily drop-in, weekly and monthly options. Ages: 5 - 12 Cost: Staring $512 / Month & $160 / week Dates: Jun 15-Aug 28 1150 SW 170th Ave, Ste 100 Beaverton, OR 97006 503-516-8525 create@craftymindz.com craftymindz.com
Portland Craft Bar Maker Workshops
Join us for true, creative making at our project-based workshops! Choose from 3-,4- or 5-day sessions of sewing, food crafting, building, textile arts, or fine arts. Ages: 6 years old and up Cost: $225-$355
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One River School of Art and Design
Art + Design Summer Camps Join us for our amazing week-long Summer Camps in Art and Design! A wonderful way to create unique works of art digitally and by hand while having fun, building friendships, and gaining valuable artistic skills. Our camps range from Comic Book Illustration and Street Art Painting to Digital Animation. We offer amazing camp bundles too... Ages: Ages 4 to 18 Cost: $325/wk - $350/wk Dates: Jun 15-Aug 21 Reg. Deadline: Ongoing 15010 SW Bangy Road Lake Oswego, OR 97035 503-606-8861 lakeoswego@oneriverschool.com lakeoswego.oneriverschool.com
LAKE OSWEGO PARKS & RECREATION
SUMMER CAMP GUIDE OUT MARCH 11!
CAMP GUIDE RELEASED MARCH 16 pdxparent.com
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middle school art and music day camps. Now with two locations! Imagination set free for maximum creativity!
Owl and Bee Clay Company Summer Art Camp
Summer art camp at Owl & Bee Clay Company is an extraordinary week of exploring your child’s creativity through unique ceramic art, print making, handmade paper arts, sculpture and more! Ages: 6-12 Cost: $225 Dates: June 15-19; July 13-17; August 17-21; August 24-28 Reg. Deadline: Up to first day of camp 3506 NE 57th Ave Portland, OR 97213 503-516-4837 owlandbeeclaycompany@gmail.com owlandbeeclaycompany.com
Smartypants
Ages: Preschool - Middle school (and high school with band camp) Cost: $175-$350 Dates: Jun 8-Aug 28 Reg. Deadline: Until camps are sold out 5633 SE Division St Portland, OR 97206 7441 N Leavitt Ave Portland, OR 97203 503-560-3592 info@vibepdx.org vibepdx.org
Willowbrook Arts Camp Willowbrook Arts Camp encourages kids to be themselves and develop their creative potential in arts and nature. We are a child-centered, award-winning summer camp nestled in beautiful Brown’s Ferry Park. Ages: Ages 3-18 Dates: Jun 29-Aug 7 5855 SW Nyberg Lane Tualatin, OR 97062 503-691-6132 campinfo@willowbrookartscamp.org willowbrookartscamp.org
Art Camps
Smartypants art camps are a delightful combination of process-based projects, collaborative artmaking, and open studio time. They promise to please your young artist’s creative spirit all week long. Ages: Kinder-5th grade Cost: $300/$270members Dates: various weeks 5512 N Montana Ave Portland, OR 97217 503-477-8884 info@smartypantspdx.com smartypantspdx.com
To Every Kid
The TEK Center The TEK Center offers the most unique camps around! Robotics, Nerf, Dodgeball, T-Shirt design, 3D printing, Coding, Minecraft and more all in one spot! Fun & safe learning for K-6th! Ages: K-6th Dates: Jun 8th-Aug 14th 5950 Willow Lane Lake Oswego, OR 97035 (971) 319-2814 tek@toeverykid.org pdxkidscamp.com
Vibe of Portland
Vibe Studio Summer Camps Vibe Studio’s Summer! 1/2 day preschool camps ; Weekly themed elementary and
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DAY CAMPS
Adventure Camp Adventure Camp is an all-day, all summer camp for kids in Kindergarten - 5th Grade. Each week includes field trips to top Portland locations, art projects, water slides, STEM activities and much more! Join us for up to eleven themed camps this summer on our 27 acre campus! Adventure Camp is a ministry of Southwest Bible Church. Ages: Incoming Kindergarten - 5th Grade (Fall 2020) Cost: $215/week (price expires 06.01.2020) Dates: Jun 15th-Aug 28th Reg. Deadline: Wednesday prior to each camp 14605 SW Weir Rd Beaverton, OR 97007 503-524-7000 swkids@swbible.org adventurecampkids.org
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Avid4 Adventure Build your child’s confidence! Avid4 Adventure empowers K - 7th graders of all levels to climb, paddle, bike, hike and thrive in the outdoors. Using time-tested curriculum, our experienced instructors (all 21+ and certified in First Aid and CPR at minimum) give campers solid outdoor skills and character-shaping confidence they can use at camp and beyond. Sign up at Avid4.com/pdxparent. Ages: Ages 5-13 Cost: $419.00 Dates: 6/15 - 8/14 Reg. Deadline: Aug 10 8825 SW Barnes Rd Portland, OR 97225 720-249-2412 19660 Mountaineer Way Bend, OR 97702 info@avid4.com www.avid4.com
Backbeat Music Academy
Try Everything, Rock Bands, Write Music For Computer Games, Songwriting Backbeat is an inquiry-driven music school that understands music isn’t about the notes you play, it’s about people. Our goal isn’t to produce competition-winning pianists, but kids who play the music they want, how they want and aren’t held back because they don’t know how to get there. Camps include Try Everything, Rock Bands, Write Music for Computer Games, more. Ages: 5+ Cost: $149/wk Dates: Jun 29 Jul 6 Jul 27 Aug 17th 9575 Sw Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy Beaverton, OR 97005 503-290-5090 contact@backbeatmusicacademy.com backbeatmusicacademy.com
BB Day Camp Portland Age-appropriate summer-program that inspires confidence, encourages self-expression, and builds an inclusive community. Meaningful and memorable experiences within a safe and nurturing environment to build life-long friendships and deepen Jewish identity. Ages: Rising Pre K - Grade 6 for all 8 weeks - and we have two weeks during
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the summer for rising Grades 7-8 Cost: $290/week before March 31 - $340/ week after March 31 Dates: Jun 29-Aug 21 Reg. Deadline: On going registration 1972 NW Flanders St Portland, OR 97209 503-496-7447 pdx@bbcamp.org bbcamp.org
Belmont Academy Explorers
Explorers camp for 6yrs through 11yrs old. A summer of fun with weekly themes and daily field trips to Portland area parks, arts and crafts, swimming, sports and games. Ages: 6yrs through 11yrs Cost: $230 weekly Dates: Jun 15-Aug 28 3841 SE Belmont St Portland, OR 97214 503-232-8985 info@belmontacademy.org belmontacademy.org
Catlin Gabel School
Summer Camps Select from a variety of camps, including sports, academics, technology, music, arts, day camps, and more. All camps occur on our 67-acre campus, minutes from downtown Portland. Ages: Preschool (age 4) to 12th grade Cost: Varies based on camp Dates: Weekly Camps from Jun 22-Aug 7 8825 SW Barnes Rd Portland, OR 97225 503-297-1894 summercamps@catlin.edu catlin.edu
Cedarwood Waldorf School Cedarwood Summer Camp
Cedarwood Waldorf School offers weekly camps that provide rich opportunities to explore science, history, culture, and the arts, with many adventures off campus to our urban neighborhood and nearby parks. Ages: Early childhood camps for children age 3 - grade 1 and experiential camps for children in grades 2-5. Cost: $365 Dates: Jun 22-Aug 14 Reg. Deadline: Rolling 3030 SW 2nd Ave Portland, OR 97201 503-245-1477 admissions@cedarwoodschool.org cedarwoodschool.org
Circus Cascadia Under the Big Top
Circus Cascadia brings the circus to the children and welcomes them to the Big Top. A fabulous week of fun topped off with a marvelous Kids Circus Show. Ages: Six to Sixteen Cost: $212-$350 Dates: 6/15-19, 6/22-26, 6/29-7/3, 7/6-10, 7/13-17, 7/20-24, 7/27-31, 8/3-7, 8/10-14, 8/17-21 Reg. Deadline: Up till the day of camp Taborspace, 5441 SE Belmont St Portland, OR 97215 503-806-0210 info@circuscascadia.org circuscascadia.org
Club K After School Zone Never Stop Exploring Summer Camp
Calling all campers to Club K’s Never Stop Exploring Summer Camp 2020! Club K is excited to introduce NEW age-distinct activity trails, designed specifically to engage and excite campers of varying ages! Dates: Jun 17th-Aug 26th Beaverton, Tigard, Tualatin, Wilsonville 503-643-9059 5505 SW Borland Rd Tualatin, OR 97062 12325 SW Katherine St Tigard, OR 97223 1500 NW 185th Ave Beaverton, OR 97006 11495 SW Wilsonville Rd Wilsonville, OR 97070 info@clubkafterschool.com clubkafterschool.com
Engineering for Kids 2020 Summer Camp
Join us this summer to explore the fantastic world of engineering. Through both directed and open-ended projects, campers will explore everything from building rockets to programming their own games. Ages: 4-15 years old Cost: Varies by locations Dates: Jun 15-Aug 28 Multiple locations in Portland Metro Area 503-914-9995 portlandmetro@engineeringforkids.net engineeringforkids.com/portland/programs/camps/
Franciscan Montessori Earth School and St. Francis Academy Camp FMES
It’s time to select Summer camps at Franciscan Montessori Earth School! Our camps are held on our beautiful garden grounds as well as indoors in air-conditioned classrooms and gym! Classes for students ages 3-13, with half and whole day camps available. Some classes are off-campus, but all classes begin at the “Earth School”! Ages: 3-13 Cost: Varies by camp Dates: Jun-Aug Reg. Deadline: Prior to week of camp 14750 SE Clinton Portland, OR 97236 503-760-8220 info@fmes.org fmes.org
Friends of Tryon Creek Nature Day Camp
We aim to inspire and nurture relationships with nature by creating experiences rooted in belonging, curiosity and exploration. Camps balance fun, learning, teamwork and friendship in a beautiful forest setting. Ages: Ages 5–14 or entering grades K–9th (ages 4 entering Kindergarten can register) Cost: $224–$339 Dates: Mar 23-27; Jun 15-Aug 28 11321 SW Terwilliger Ave Portland, OR 97219 503-636-4398 daycamp@tryonfriends.org tryonfriends.org
Girls Rock Empowerment Camp This camp helps your daughter navigate challenges and equip her with confidence and compassion. Games, experiential learning, discussions, and crafts are designed for her to manage stress and anxiety. Ages: Girls entering 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Cost: $245 Dates: Jul 13-17, Aug 3-7 10am-2pm
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Reg. Deadline: Open until filled 7426 SW 53rd Ave Portland, OR 97219 503-381-5292 Kim@kimdavies.org kimdavies.org/summer-camp/
Goin’ Gaming
Gamer’s Day Camp Our gamer camps are designed to foster teamwork through active role-play and social gaming. Storytelling Staff will guide kids to create a tabletop or live-action hero to join epic adventures! Ages: 7-14 Dates: Jul 13th-Aug 21st 27084 SE Stark St Troutdale, OR 97060 503-328-8166 GoinGamingStore@gmail.com goingaming.com
Hillsboro Parks and Recreation Summer Camps
iD Tech Camps
Held at Lewis & Clark College Students learn to code, design games, mod Minecraft, engineer robots, and more! Your child can make friends as they master new skills, and join a community of 450,000 iD alumni. Ages: 7-17 Cost: Cost varies by course, date, and location Dates: Jun-Aug Reg. Deadline: No deadline to register, but space fills quickly 0615 SW Palatine Hill Rd Portland, OR 97219 888-709-8324 hello@iDTech.com idtech.com/locations/oregon-summer-camps/lewis-clark-college
Hillsboro Parks & Recreation offers a wide range of camps from adventure, nature, arts, sports, STEM and more.
The International School
There’s even 3.5 hour mini camps for
Summer Camp
kiddos 3-5 years!
Enjoy a world of fun at our award-winning language immersion summer camp! Spanish, Chinese, or Japanese language and culture come to life through handson projects, outdoor fun, and more!
Ages: 4-18 years 4400 NE Century Blvd Hillsboro, OR 97124 503-681-6120 Mary.Loftin@hillsboro-oregon.gov hillsboro-oregon.gov
The Historic Trust
Ages: Ages 3 - 5th Grade 2305 S Water Ave Portland, OR 97201 503-226-2496 x100
Pearson Field Education Center
summer@intlschool.org intlschool.org
STEM education summer camps with
Living Wisdom School
Summer Camps
an emphasis on aviation. Get hands-on experience in a unique setting on one of the oldest operating air fields in the country. Ages: 7-17 Cost: $250-$350 Dates: June 30- Aug. 8 Reg. Deadline: Jul 1 201 A East Reserve St Vancouver, WA 98661 360-992-1809 jennifer.harmon@thehistorictrust.org pearsonfieldeducation.org
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Joyful Heart/Yoga Camp
Games, yoga, creative crafts, cooking and swimming. Through stories, songs, movement, art, yoga, and play children learn about their higher selves. Ages: 3.5 years-10 years old Cost: $150-$200 Dates: Jul 27-31 4855 SW Watson Ave Beaverton, OR 97005 503-671-9112 office@livingwisdomportland.org livingwisdomportland.org
K-Lean’s Tennis @ Glendoveer Golf & Tennis K-Lean’s Tennis
Tennis/Golf development programs. We focus on providing a FUN, fast paced, and a game based approach. Our approach adds excitement and enjoyment for the kids as they learn through a progression of drills and games specific for each of the levels of play. We teach with passion, loads of energy, and space for kids to realize and attain their potential. Ages: 5-14 years old Cost: $168/wk (2hr), $278/wk (4hr), $448/wk Tennis/Golf (All Day) Dates: Jun 8-11; Jun 15-18; Jun 22-25; June 29-July 2; Jul 6-9; Jul 13-16; Jul 20-23; Jul 27-30; Aug 3-6; Aug 10-13; Aug 17-20; Aug 24-27 Reg. Deadline: Early bird 10% discount through Apr 2020 14015 NE Glisan St Portland, OR 97230 503-701-4408 kaleen@kleanstennis.com k-leans.com
Mittleman Jewish Community Center MJCC Day Camp
BEST SUMMER EVER! MJCC Summer Day Camp offers full-day fun with flexible scheduling from 7:30 am 6:00 pm. Swimming included! Also enjoy sports, arts, rock climbing, and more! Open to everyone ages 3-15. Programs are age-appropriate, fun and safe. We inspire confidence and provide the framework for lasting memories and friendships. Camps are 1 week, full-day or half-day sessions. Ages: Ages 3-15 Cost: $100 - $350 weekly (varies by camp and portion of day) Dates: Jun 22-Aug 21 Reg. Deadline: Rolling 6651 SW Capitol Hwy Portland, OR 97219 503-244-0111 mjcc@oregonjcc.org oregonjcc.org
The Movement Park Parkour Summer Camps
Leach Botanical Garden
Outdoor Summer Theater Camps Produce original performance pieces with Joellen Sweeney from Bedrock Theatre. HOOT LIKE AN OWL: Jun 22-26, 9:00am - 4:00pm Ages 8-10. $230 Create costumes, songs, scenes and poetry inspired by Pacific Northwest wildlife. IMMERSIVE PERFORMANCE LAB: Jun 29-Jul 3, 9:00am - 4:00pm Ages 14-18. $230 - Create and use music, journaling, storytelling and improvisation to collaborate on a performance. Ages: 8-12 and 14-18 Cost: $230 Dates: Jun 22-26 and Jun 29-Jul 3 Reg. Deadline: June 12 6704 SE 122nd Ave Portland, OR 97236 503-823-1671 jvrilakas@leachgarden.org leachgarden.org
Parkour summer camps in Hillsboro. Weekly themed mornings sessions including Nerf, Spy School & Olympic camps, plus al-a-carte afternoon sessions with open gym & summer fun recreational activities. Ages: Ages 6+ Cost: $35-$195 Dates: June-August Reg. Deadline: 1 Week Prior to the Start of Camp 2240 NE Griffin Oaks St Ste 1000 Hillsboro, OR 97124 503-844-8801 www.themovementpark.com
Neighborhood House Unlock Your Creativity
In our STEAM focused summer program, children will explore and share their own creativity within the context of literary genres. We also offer before and after camp care. Ages: Children who have attended Kindergarten through age 12 Cost: 265.00 per week Dates: Jun 15-Aug 7; 9:30-4 PM Reg. Deadline: Jun 1 4013 NE 18th Ave
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Portland, OR 97219 503-246=1663 kkangieser@nhpdx.org nhpdx.org
North Clackamas Parks and Recreation District NCPRD offers a wide variety of affordable day camps to keep kids of all ages active, learning and having fun all summer long. Choose from over 40 camps including sports, nature, dance, theater, video game design and more. Ages: ages 3 to 18 Dates: All summer long Reg. Deadline: Registration Opens: April 7 (NCPRD residents) April 14 (non-residents) Multiple Locations North Clackamas, OR 97045 503-742-4348
NW Gymnastics Training Center Summer Camps
NGTC has a variety of camp themes for children 5 to 18 for all skill levels. Beginners welcome. Tumble track, rope swing, foam pit, in addition to all Olympic equipment. Ages: Ages 5 to 18 Cost: $300.00 full day. $175.00 half day Dates: Jul 13-17, Jul 27-31, Aug 10-14, Aug 31-Sept 4 Reg. Deadline: One week week prior to camp. Drop in rate applies after one week before camp 2919 NW Division Street Gresham, OR 97030 503-492-4115 office@nwgymnasticstc.com nwgymnasticstc.com
sports@ncprd.com ncprd.com
Oregon Episcopal School Summer Camps
OMSI - Oregon Museum of Science & Industry OMSI Camps & Classes
Have an unforgettable summer! OMSI offers 200+ summer Camps & Classes, making it easy for students K-12 to enjoy months of fun, friends, and adventures together. Create animated films, pilot a drone, become a junior veterinarian, and more with OMSI’s award-winning day camps & classes-or learn wilderness survival, dig up fossils, and learn to surf with OMSI’s ACA-accredited overnight camps. Ages: Grades K-12 Cost: Price varies. Financial aid available. OMSI Members save 20% off. 1945 SE Water Ave Portland, OR 97214 503-797-4000 Coastal Discovery Center at Camp Gray 3400 SW Abalone St Newport, OR 97366 Hancock Field Station 39472 Hwy 218 Fossil, OR 97830 info@omsi.edu omsi.edu
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Register today for summer camps at Oregon Episcopal School! Our full day and partial summer camps empower children ages 4 to 18 to follow their passions indoors and out. Lunch is provided for students who participate in morning and full day classes. Before and after camp care is available. For more information, go to www.oes.edu/ summer. Ages: 4 to 18 Cost: Dependent upon the camp and before- and after-camp care selections Dates: Jun 22 - Aug 14 6300 SW Nicol Rd Portland, OR 97223 503-768-3115 admit@oes.edu oes.edu
Portland Children’s Museum Summer Camps
Explore, discover, and create with Portland Children’s Museum! Campers will combine art materials with science and nature explorations that spark imaginations. Discover new adventures with different themes each week! Ages: 4-10 years Cost: $305 (Museum members receive a discount) Dates: Weekly sessions from Jun 8Aug 28 Reg. Deadline: Wednesday before each week of camp
4015 SW Canyon Rd Portland, OR 97221 503-471-9918 camps@portlandcm.org portlandcm.org
Red Castle Games Portland Parks & Recreation
Specialty and Day Camps Citywide Experience action packed camps filled with exciting activities. Build cooperation, stimulate imaginations, and increase self-esteem while discovering ways to positively use your energy and explore your interests. Before and After Care offered to support your childcare needs. Payment plans and scholarships available. Join PP&R for camps offered in parks and community centers Citywide! Ages: For kids preschool age through sixth grade. Limited options for teens available. Cost: Varies by location Dates: Jun 15-Aug 21. Limited options available Aug 24-28. Reg. Deadline: Register any time! Limited spots available, register early. N Portland, including: 8427 N Central St, Portland, OR 97203 503-823-7529 SE Portland, including 740 SE 106th Ave Portland, OR 97216 SW Portland, including 6820 SW 45th Ave Portland, OR 97219 portlandparks.org
Sauvie Island Center Farm Camp
Farm Camp is outdoor experience outside all day, every day soaking up the fresh air and sunshine. Each day is a new adventure as we explore the farm. Ages: Children entering 2nd, 3rd or 4th grades in fall of 2020 Cost: $225 Dates: Aug 3-Aug 7 Reg. Deadline: May 31 13901 NW Howell Park Rd Portland, OR 97231 503-201-5923 joanne@sauvieislandcenter.org sauvieislandcenter.org
Dungeons & Dragons Summer Camp Learn new skills, make friends and level up with Portland’s premier D&D summer camp! Red Castle’s D&D camps are run by professional Dungeon Masters who specialize in roleplaying with kids and taking them on epic adventures! No experience necessary, we provide everything needed to play. Great for teaching empathy, problem-solving and active listening. Includes options for liveaction roleplaying outdoors. Ages: 8-17 Cost: $225 per week Dates: Jun 8-Aug 17 Reg. Deadline: Jun 1 7160 SE Foster Rd Portland, OR 97206 503-774-4263 events@redcastlegames.com redcastlegames.com
Skyhawks Sports Academy Skyhawks Summer Camps
Skyhawks provides a wide variety of fun, safe and positive programs that emphasize critical lessons in sports and life, such as teamwork, respect and sportsmanship. Ages: 4-14 Cost: $149-$210 Dates: Jun-Aug Reg. Deadline: Jun 20 1915 NE 33rd Ave Portland, OR 97212 800-804-3509 skyhawks@skyhawks.com skyhawks.com
St. Mary’s Academy Summer Camp for Girls
Camps designed with girls in mind! Whether your daughter wants her summer filled with art, theatre, mindfulness, science, or leadership, we provide camp options to pique every girl’s interest. Ages: Entering grades 4-8 Cost: Varies based on program Dates: Jul 6-Aug 21 Reg. Deadline: Varies based on program 1615 SW 5th Ave Portland, OR 97201 503-228-8306 summerprogram@smapdx.org smapdx.org
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To Every Kid
The TEK Center The TEK Center offers the most unique camps around! Robotics, Nerf, Dodgeball, T-Shirt design, 3D printing, Coding, Minecraft and more all in one spot! Fun & safe learning for K-6th! Ages: K-6th Dates: Jun 8th-Aug 14th 5950 Willow Lane Lake Oswego, OR 97035 971-319-2814 tek@toeverykid.org pdxkidscamp.com
Tualatin Hills Parks & Recreation District THPRD offers more than 400 camps to choose from. Full-day and half-day options. Affordable rates and financial aid available. Variety of camp options from sports, aquatics, nature, arts, day trips, and more. Let THPRD help you find the camp you need to keep your children active, learning, and having fun all summer long. Multiple Locations 503-645-6433 hthompson@thprd.org thprd.com
Tucker Maxon School Tucker Arts Camp
Throughout eight weeks, campers explore the art of storytelling from cultures around the world. Our SE Portland campus includes a tree house classroom, organic garden, and large outdoor space. Ages: Preschool (at least age 3) to 5th grade Cost: Early Registration: $289-319 / Regular Registration: $319-349 Dates: Jun 22-Aug 14 (weekly sessions) Reg. Deadline: Early Registration – Apr 15 2860 SE Holgate Blvd Portland, OR 97202 503-235-6551 info@tuckermaxon.org tuckermaxon.org
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VillaSport Athletic Club and Spa Summer Quest
Join us on our quest for adventure! Your journey will include field trips, crafts, sports, cooking, engineering, games, and splashing away in our pools. Get ready for an action-packed summer Ages: Ages 5 - 12 13900 SW Meridian St Beaverton, OR 97005 971-317-2600 info@villasport.com villasport.com
Westside Dance & Gymnastics Academy
Yoga Playgrounds In these camps kids will stretch and energize their bodies and minds through yoga, movement, games, mindfulness, nature exploration, creativity and art. Camps are packed with playfulness, positivity and fun! Ages: Ages 5-11 Cost: $365 Dates: June and July Reg. Deadline: One week prior to camp start date Multiple locations throughout Portland 541-778-4541 hello@yogaplaygrounds.com yogaplaygrounds.com
Dance, Preschool, Gymnastics and All Day Camps
Half-day and all-day camps available in preschool, dance and gymnastics during Summer Break. Campers will enjoy a new themed experience each day. Ages 3-12, depending on camp. Ages: 3-12 depending on camp Cost: From $40/day - $315/weekly depending on camp Dates: Jun 15th-Aug 28th Reg. Deadline: Ongoing - registration starts Feb. 25th 11632 SW Pacific Hwy Tigard, OR 97223 503-639-5388 info@westsideacademy.com westsideacademy.com
World of Speed Motorsports Museum Summer Camp
Drive into summer with World of Speed! World of Speed takes summer camp to a whole new level with camps that excite, educate, and challenge students grades K-12 in a fun, supportive environment. Kick it into high gear this summer with a camp you’ll never forget! Camps fill quickly, so be sure to register soon. Ages: K-12 Cost: $125 - $275 Dates: Jun 22-Aug 14 27490 SW 95th Ave Wilsonville, OR 97070 503-563-6444 erinb@worldofspeed.org worldofspeed.org
Wildwood Summer Camps Wildwood Summer Camps is a day camp located in Hood River (an hour east of Portland). The camp runs Mon - Thurs from 8:30am - 3:30pm from June 15 to Aug 30. Swimming, art, dodgeball, legos, jewelry making, nerf wars, capture the flag, and much, much more. Lots of fun and summer magic! Ages: 6 - 12 Cost: $65 per day Dates: Jun 15th-Aug 30th 13 Railroad St Hood River, OR 97031 310-696-9515 joe@wildwood-academy.org wildwoodsummercamps.com
EQUESTRIAN French Hill Farm Riding Academy Our camps are for horse lovers of any ability. Everything we do is geared to learning about the horse and riding. Full day campers ride 2x day. We teach safety around horses in all activities. Campers learn the parts of the horse, how to groom, care and bathe the horse. Ages: 7-14: 5 day camps; 5-6: Kindercamps Cost: $475 for 5 full day camps, $140 for 2 half day Kindercamps Dates: Weekly, Jun 18 - Aug 17 15770 NE Eilers Road Aurora, OR 97002 503-678-6336 nancy@frenchhillfarm.com frenchhillfarm.com
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Pdxparent.com is the Portland-metro area's most popular parenting website. Visit us for family fun, resource guides and more!
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Herrold Stables and Farm
Beginning Rider Horse Camp We offer several horse day camps March to August 2020. Beginning to advanced riders. Students taught horsemanship, showmanship, equitation English/ Western, Trail, Jumping. Experienced schooling horses used. Sign up at HerroldStables.com Ages: Preschool to eighteen Cost: $285.00 Dates: Mar 23-26, Jun 22-26, Jul 13-16, Jul 27-30, Aug 10-13 Reg. Deadline: Aug 10 32900 SW Wohler St Hillsboro, OR 97123 971-235-4529 HerroldStables@yahoo.com herroldstables.com
Old McDonald’s Farm, Inc. The Summer Program
Enjoy a world of fun at our award-winning language immersion summer camp! Spanish, Chinese, or Japanese language and culture come to life through handson projects, outdoor fun, and more! Ages: Ages 3 - 5th Grade 2305 S Water Ave Portland, OR 97201 503-226-2496 x100
Ages: Grades 2-6 Cost: $249 + $48 bus Dates: Six weeks: 6/22, 7/6, 7/13, 7/27, 8/3, and 8/10 Corbett, OR 97019 503-695-3316 omf@oldmcdonaldsfarm.org oldmcdonaldsfarm.org
Ages: 3-8 Cost: $250 (early bird), $285 (regular) Dates: Aug 4-7, Aug 10-14 Reg. Deadline: Early bird ends May 1st. Regular enrollment ends one week prior the start of camp or when filled 16860 SW Blanton St Aloha, OR 97078 503-546-3455
Ages: 5-14 years old Cost: $395 Dates: Weekly, Jun 15-Aug 28 Reg. Deadline: June 16000 NE Eilers Rd Aurora, OR 97002 503-678-5478 areiter4@hotmail.com riverranchhorses.com
FOREIGN LANGUAGES German International School of Portland Kindersommer
Join us this July as we kick off Kindersommer 2020, a German immersion summer camp program! Our camps offer students hands-on learning through a variety of exciting and entertaining themes. pdxparent.com
Summer Camp
Join us! NWCA’s “Interconnected World” Summer Camp will engage students in the connections between eastern and western cultures through hands-on activities, arts and crafts, and outdoor adventures. After-camp care available.
Weekly River Ranch Camps are small groups who learn to lead, groom, tack and ride. Each Horse Camper will have a horse to love and learn about for the week!
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The International School
summer@intlschool.org intlschool.org
Summer Equestrian Day Camp
March 2020
info@gspdx.org gspdx.org
Get out of the city and learn and thrive at our educational Farm Program for children. This program is taught by an experienced, Certified Teacher. Our bus is available close-in, east side!
River Ranch Summer Horse Camp
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Ages: 3 years - 5 years, 6 & 7 Years and 8-12 years Cost: $230-$290 Dates: Jul 6-Aug 28 Reg. Deadline: Jun 1 3900 SW Murray Bl Beaverton, OR 97005 503-626-9089
Northwest Chinese Academy
info@nwchineseacademy.org nwchineseacademy.org
Portland Early Learning Project
Spanish Camps: Fiestas Latinas & Pasaporte a Colombia Join us for Fiestas Latinas and Pasaporte a Colombia this summer! Campers practice Spanish in a warm, supportive, and FUN environment while learning about culture through crafting and play. They have ample time for outdoor play and receive a daily, mid-morning snack. Ages: Ages 5 - 8 Cost: $310 Dates: Jun 15-19; Jul 20-24; Aug 17-21; Aug 24-28 4330 NE 37th Ave Portland, OR 97211 5815 SW Gillcrest Ct Portland, OR 97221 503-284-0610 Tanya@portlandearlylearning.com portlandearlylearning.com
Schoolita Alegria Summer Fun Camp
An amazing in depth exposure to Spanish through song, weekly theme days, countries, cooking, yoga/gymnastics, gardening, water play days, and arts and crafts. Small group size (10). Ages: 3-5yrs Cost: $215 Weekly Dates: Jul 6th-Jul 30th Reg. Deadline: Open registration thru July 4605 NE Campaign St Portland, OR 97218 503-706-1077 alegria@schoolita-alegria.com schoolita-alegria.com
Scuola Italiana di Portland Cooking & Climbing Camps
Scuola Italiana di Portland is offering two Italian culture camps - Joy of Cooking and Cooking & Climbing Camp. You kids will go on a culinary tour of Italy!
tion fee, June 1st generally 16101 SE McLoughlin Blvd Milwaukie, OR 97267 503-560-5860 indiedancepdx@gmail.com idppdx.com
Intercultural Movement Arts Academy Dance & Culture Camps
Each week is different and exciting as they dance, do arts and crafts, sing and enjoy story time to explore the cultural context of the dances they are learning. Ages: 4-6 potty trained Cost: $315 Dates: Samba Reggae: Jul 6-10, Bollywood: Jul 20-24, Contemporary: Aug 3-7, Line Dancing: Aug 17-21 1420 NW 17th Ave Portland, OR 97209 ima.academy.pdx@gmail.com ima-academy.square.site
Ages: 4- 12 Cost: $200-$320 Dates: Jul 27-31 and Aug 10-14 Reg. Deadline: Jul 26 1542 NW 14th Ave Portland, OR 97209 971-270-0470 info@scuola.us scuola.us
GYMNASTICS / DANCE The Circus Project Keep your child spinning, flipping and jumping while school is out. Circus camp includes aerial trapeze, acrobatics, juggling, theater and more, and every week ends with a short circus show! Ages: Options for ages 5 through 15 Cost: $190-$395 Date: June 15-August 21 1420 NW 17th Ave Ste 388 Portland, OR 97209 503-764-9174 frontdesk@thecircusproject.org thecircusproject.org
Independent Dance Project
Dance Camps: Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tumbling The Independent Dance Project has a variety of summer camps for all ages and levels. Campers enjoy fun themes while learning jazz, hip hop, tumbling, and more! Ages: Ages 3-18 Cost: $80-$265 Dates: Week long camps between 6/22 and 8/15 Reg. Deadline: April 15th for no registra-
June Taylor’s School of Dance Summer Dance Camps and Intensives
Grow as a dancer this Summer and have fun at June Taylor’s School of Dance. In business for 35 years. Camps and Intensives include Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Conditioning, etc., all taught by professionally trained teachers. Beautiful studios with sprung floors and viewing area. Ages: Camps offered for 3-12yrs and Intensives offered for 10-18yrs Cost: $99 and up Dates: Various times in Jul & Aug Reg. Deadline: Based on availability 19318 SW Mohave Ct Tualatin, OR 97062 503-885-0545 junetaylor@earthlink.net junetaylorschoolofdance.com
Naydenov Gymnastics
Sports, Preschool Learning, Acro Gymnastics & Dance Camps Preschool Learning Center Camps $70.00 Tue, Wed, & Thu 9am-12pm; Sports Camps $175.00 Mon-Fri 9am3pm; Dance Camps $120.00 Mon-Fri 9am-12pm; Acro Camps $120.00 Mon-Fri 12:30-3:30pm
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Ages: 4-12 Cost: $70 to $175 per camp week Dates: Jun 22-Aug 21 Reg. Deadline: First day of camp 5313 NE 94th Ave Vancouver, WA 98662 360-944-4444 office@ngymnastics.com ngymnastics.com
NW Dance Project
Summer Dance Classes, Camps, and Intensives Explore the magic of dance! Offering exceptional dance training in classical and contemporary dance forms through our summer dance camps, classes, and intensives for students ages 4 to 19. Ages: Ages 4 to 19 Dates: Various dance classes, camps, and intensives running June through August 211 NE 10th Ave Portland, OR 97232 503-421-7434
Intensives, Pre-Pointe Workshop, Boys’ Program Pre-ballet classes let tiny dancers develop coordination, listening skills, and musicality. Junior intensives fuel creativity, expression, and improvisation. The Pointe Workshops and Boys’ Program support growth of more advanced dancers. Ages: Ages 3 - 13 Dates: Jun 30-Aug 20 0720 SW Bancroft St Portland, OR 97239 West Linn Studios 19066 Willamette Dr West Linn, OR 97068 503-210-2365 503-227-6890 schoolofobt@obt.org school.obt.org
INCLUSIVE / ACCESSIBLE
info@nwdanceproject.org nwdanceproject.org
OMEGA Gymnastics
OMEGA Gymnastics Camp Active play and gymnastics camps. Choose half or full day, one day or multiple - built for flexibility. Full day includes field trip. Camp shirt and annual membership required. Ages: Ages 4 and up (must be potty trained) Cost: $69 Full Day $38 Half Day Dates: Jun 15-Aug 28 (excluding holidays and gym closures) Reg. Deadline: Open Registration as Space Permits 9700 SW Harvest Ct Ste 180 Beaverton, OR 97005 503-466-4872 info@omega-gymnastics.com omega-gymnastics.com
Oregon Gymnastics Academy Summer Camps
OGA Summer Camps offer friends, fitness, and fun all rolled into one! Campers partake in gymnastics instruction along with games, crafts, and field trips based on that week’s theme. 16305 NW Bethany Ct Ste 109 Beaverton, OR 97006 503-531-3409 info@ogagym.org ogagym.org
The School of Oregon Ballet Theatre
Summer Dance Classes and Workshops for Children: Pre-Ballet, Junior
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Spectra Gymnastics
Spectra-Lympics, Sensory Seekers, Fostering Friendships, Yoga Camp Spectra-Lympics: Let your child feel like a champion all week! Kids learn adaptive routines, play in photo booth & perform an Olympic themed ceremony on the final day of camp! Yoga & Meditation: We will help your child find their inner zen with movement, mindfulness activities, yoga, chakra art & much more! Fostering Friendships & Sensory Seekers: see website description. Cost: $300/week Dates: Jun 22-Aug 28 Reg. Deadline: May 30 8344 SW Nimbus Ave Beaverton, OR 97008 503-754-9794 karissa@spectrapdx.com spectrapdx.com
OUTDOOR EDUCATION Friends of Tryon Creek Nature Day Camp
We aim to inspire and nurture relationships with nature by creating experiences rooted in belonging, curiosity and exploration. Camps balance fun, learning, teamwork and friendship in a beautiful forest setting. Ages: Ages 5–14 or entering grades K–9th (ages 4 entering Kindergarten can
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register) Cost: $224–$339 Dates: Mar 23-27; Jun 15-Aug 28 11321 SW Terwilliger Ave Portland, OR 97219 503-636-4398 daycamp@tryonfriends.org tryonfriends.org
Lake Oswego Parks & Recreation
tions with nature. From hiking, to art, or searching for wildlife, kids can be their authentic selves at Portland Audubon! Ages: We offer 60 camps for grades 1-12. Cost: $325-$745 Dates: Jun 22-Aug28 5151 NW Cornell Rd Portland, OR 97210 503-292-6855 tlemezis@audubonportland.org audubonportland.org
Teen Service Corps
LO Teen Service Corps is a volunteer opportunity for teens ages 13-17. This program is a three-day commitment; two days of service and an adventurous activity on the third day. Ages: Ages 13-17 Cost: $135-$155 Dates: Weekly Jun 23-Aug 14 Reg. Deadline: Ongoing 1060 Chandler Rd Lake Oswego, OR 97034 503-697-6589 cfletcher@ci.oswego.or.us loparks.org
Mazamas
Mazama Wild Camps Through nature exploration and climbing, Mazama WILD encourages children to laugh, learn, and make memories to last a lifetime. All camps include rock climbing and a trip to Mount Hood. Ages: 4-14 years old Cost: $350-$795 Dates: Mar-Aug Reg. Deadline: Opens Jan. 15th, open until full 527 SE 43rd Ave Portland, OR 97215 503-227-2345 mazamawildcamps@mazamas.org mazamas.org
Old McDonald’s Farm, Inc. The Summer Program
Get out of the city and learn and thrive at our educational Farm Program for children. This program is taught by an experienced, Certified Teacher. Our bus is available close-in, east side! Ages: Grades 2-6 Cost: $249 + $48 bus Dates: Six weeks: 6/22, 7/6, 7/13, 7/27, 8/3, and 8/10 Corbett, OR 97019 503-695-3316 omf@oldmcdonaldsfarm.org oldmcdonaldsfarm.org
Portland Audubon Summer Camp
Our camps combine science, games, and creative play with meaningful connec-
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Trackers Earth Portland
Trackers Earth’s award-winning Summer Camps offer day camps for Grades Pre K (age 4) to Grade 12 with exciting themes like Wilderness Survival, Kayaking, Archery, Wizards, Ninjas, Secret Agents, Blacksmithing, Rock Climbing & More! Overnight camps available for Grades 4-12 offer authentic wilderness adventure, team building, and outdoor leadership. New! 8 convenient drop-off locations in Portland, Vancouver, and Sandy. Ages: Ages 4-18, Grades PreK - 12 Cost: $395 Dates: Jun 15-Aug 28 4617 SE Milwaukie Ave Portland, OR 97202 503-345-3312 info@trackersearth.com trackerspdx.com
Willow Creek Forest School WCFS - Nature Immersion Camps
Lead by professional teachers on the land at TLC Farm and in Tryon Creek State Park. Each week children participate in exploring the natural world through an exciting theme. Ages: 4 - 7 years of age Cost: $300 Dates: Jul 20-24, Jul 27-31, Aug 3-7, Aug 10-14 Reg. Deadline: May 30 11640 SW Boones Ferry Rd Portland, OR 97219 503-265-9182 hiserhott@gmail.com willowcreekforestschool.org
OVERNIGHT CAMPS Big Lake Youth Camp
Big Lake gives campers an environment and opportunity to gain better selfawareness, set and achieve goals while having a blast. Offering friendship,
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encouragement, adventure, and fun to make memories for a lifetime. Cost: $434-$634 (scholarships available) Dates: Jun 28 - Aug 30 26435 Big Lake Rd Sisters, OR 97759 503-850-3583 office@biglake.org biglake.org
Ekone Ranch Summer Camps Week-long sleep away camps include Homestead Camp, Theater Camp, Music Camp, Construction Camp, Wilderness Camp, and Craft Camp and a variety of levels of horse camps. Ages: All ages camps are 8-18 years old, certain camps are 10-18 and others are 13-18. Cost: $1100 Dates: Jun 21-Aug 15 Reg. Deadline: Rolling registration 401 Ekone Rd Goldendale, WA 98620 509-773-4536 summercamp@ekone.org ekone.org
Alpengirl Adventure Camp for Girls Alpengirl is an overnight summer adventure camp for girls ages 11-16. Our 1 or 2 week outdoor camps are in the Pacific Northwest and Northern Rocky Mountains: Washington, Wyoming, Oregon, Idaho and Montana. We offer daily yoga, delicious camp food and tent camping combined with surfing, rafting, riding, climbing and more! ACA Accredited, small groups of 12 girls, 1:6 ratio. Ages: Ages 11 - 16 Cost: $990-$2635 Dates: 11 different camps available, see website for specific dates. 7000 NE Airport Way Portland, OR 97218 406-570-6312 info@alpengirlcamp.com alpengirlcamp.com
Camp Two Roads C2R is a week long camp empowering young women to be confident leaders in the outdoors and within their communities. We offer high ropes challenges, outdoor skills, canoeing, and more. Ages: Campers entering grades 3-12 in the fall of 2020 Cost: $300 Dates: Aug 23-28th Reg. Deadline: Jul 1 19651 NW Old Railroad Grade Rd Yamhill, OR 97148 971-328-1653 c2r@tsuga.org tsuga.org
iD Tech Camps
Held at Lewis & Clark College Students learn to code, design games, mod Minecraft, engineer robots, and more! Your child can make friends as they master new skills, and join a community of 450,000 iD alumni. Ages: 7-17 Cost: Cost varies by course, date, and location Dates: Jun-Aug Reg. Deadline: No deadline to register, but space fills quickly 0615 SW Palatine Hill Rd Portland, OR 97219 888-709-8324 hello@iDTech.com idtech.com/locations/oregonsummer-camps/lewis-clark-college
YMCA Camp Collins Overnight Camps for youth entering grades 2-9; Day camp for youth entering grades 1-6; Teen Camps for youth entering grades 9-12 and Family Camps Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekend. Ages: Youth entering grades 1-12 Cost: $399-$1295 Dates: Jun 28-Aug 22 3001 SE Oxbow Pkwy Gresham, OR 97080 503-663-5813 campcollins@ymcacw.org ymcacw.org
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The Circus Project
OMSI - Oregon Museum of Science & Industry OMSI Camps & Classes
Have an unforgettable summer! OMSI offers 200+ summer Camps & Classes, making it easy for students K-12 to enjoy months of fun, friends, and adventures together. Create animated films, pilot a drone, become a junior veterinarian, and more with OMSI’s award-winning day camps & classes-or learn wilderness survival, dig up fossils, and learn to surf with OMSI’s ACA-accredited overnight camps. Ages: Grades K-12 Cost: Price varies. Financial aid available. OMSI Members save 20% off. 1945 SE Water Ave Portland, OR 97214 503-797-4000 Coastal Discovery Center at Camp Gray 3400 SW Abalone St Newport, OR 97366 Hancock Field Station 39472 Hwy 218 Fossil, OR 97830 info@omsi.edu omsi.edu
Keep your child spinning, flipping and jumping while school is out. Circus camp includes aerial trapeze, acrobatics, juggling, theater and more, and every week ends with a short circus show! Ages: Options for ages 5 through 15 Cost: $190-$395 Date: June 15-August 21 1420 NW 17th Ave Ste 388 Portland, OR 97209 503-764-9174 frontdesk@thecircusproject.org thecircusproject.org
Columbia Gorge School of Theatre CGST is a summer theatre camp for ages 10-18. Study Acting, Singing, Dancing, in a college campus setting. All campers perform in a play or a musical. Ages: Ages 10-18 Cost: $1,000 per week Dates: Jul 6-Aug 1 Reg. Deadline: First come basis 0615 SW Palatine Hill Rd Portland, OR 97219 503-367-2538 bluemoon91@aol.com theatrecamp.com
Echo Theater Company Circus Theater Camp
PERFORMING ARTS Backbeat Music Academy
Try Everything, Rock Bands, Write Music For Computer Games, Songwriting Backbeat is an inquiry-driven music school that understands music isn’t about the notes you play, it’s about people. Our goal isn’t to produce competition-winning pianists, but kids who play the music they want, how they want and aren’t held back because they don’t know how to get there. Camps include Try Everything, Rock Bands, Write Music for Computer Games, more.
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Explore acrobatics, trapeze, aerial, & physical storytelling in a variety of weeklong camps! Half-day or full-day. Options for all levels of students. All camps are inclusive & accessible. Ages: 4-12 Cost: $185-$385 Dates: Jun 15-Aug 21 Reg. Deadline: Jun 12 1515 SE 37th Ave Portland, OR 97214 971-267-3246 hello@echotheaterpdx.org echotheaterpdx.org
Journey Theater Arts Group
Ages: 5+ Cost: $149/wk Dates: Jun 29 Jul 6 Jul 27 Aug 17th 9575 Sw Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy Beaverton, OR 97005 503-290-5090
Journey Theater Day Camp
contact@backbeatmusicacademy.com backbeatmusicacademy.com
Ages: 7 to 13 Cost: $205 Dates: Jul 13-17 Reg. Deadline: May 1 Eastridge Church 14100 SE Sunnyside Rd Clackamas, OR 97015
Our camps are specifically constructed for 7-13 year olds to include musical theater instruction (dance, acting and singing), game time, and FUN! Camps conclude with a free showcase.
Colossae Church 5121 NE Elam Young Pkwy Hillsboro, OR 97124 360-750-8550 info@journeytheater.org journeytheater.org
Portland Music School Summer Fun Music Camp + Variety Show
Portland Music School offers group keyboard lessons for children, teens and adults. Unique Yamaha courses are offered in age-appropriate groupings. We promise FUN while learning. Request a free preview lesson. Ages: Students of combined ages will be creating and performing a variety show,. Cost: Details coming soon at pdxmusicschool.com 4848 SW Scholls Ferry Rd Portland, OR 97225 971-777-0320 office@pdxmusicschool.com pdxmusicschool.com
Northwest Children’s Theater and School Summer Theater Camps
Experience the magic of theater with NWCT! We have camps for all ages and levels. Enter the world of drama in an Explore Camp, enhance your acting and musical theater technique in a Skills Camp, or put on a fully-costumed play in a Playlab! We even have camps for kids who want to work behind-thescenes or become a playwright! Ages: 4-16 Cost: $170-$325 Dates: Jun 15-Aug 21 Reg. Deadline: Ongoing 1819 NW Everett St Portland, OR 97209 503-222-2190 2nd Location! July 6-31 for ages 7-14 Lake Oswego Methodist Church 1855 South Shore Blvd Lake Oswego, OR 97034 info@nwcts.org nwcts.org
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Shaking the Tree Theatre Theatre Camps
and culture come to life through handson projects, outdoor fun, and more!
Explore the art of theatre and storytelling in a fun, supportive and creative environment, where collaboration is key and imagination knows no bounds. Small classes mean individual attention. Join us!
Ages: Ages 3 - 5th Grade 2305 S Water Ave Portland, OR 97201 503-226-2496 x100 summer@intlschool.org intlschool.org
Ages: Ages 8 - 18 Cost: $199 Dates: Jun 29th-Aug 14th 823 SE Grant St Portland, OR 97214 503-235-0635 info@shaking-the-tree.com shaking-the-tree.com
PRESCHOOLS AHSC Yu Miao Chinese Immersion Preschool Yu Miao Chinese Cultural Camp
Students will discover Chinese cultures through exploring dance, Chinese music (instruments and music theory), games, martial arts, calligraphy, brush painting, crafts, and culinary arts while learning & practicing Mandarin! Ages: 3- 7 years Dates: 10 weekly sessions , M- F, before and after care available. Reg. Deadline: Register early to qualify for early bird discount 5239 SE Woodstock Bl Portland, OR 97206 503-775-3767 tyang@ahscpdx.org ahscpdx.org/yumiao.html
The International School Summer Camp
Enjoy a world of fun at our award-winning language immersion summer camp! Spanish, Chinese, or Japanese language
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info@madscienceportland.com portland.madscience.org
OMSI - Oregon Museum of Science & Industry
The Portland Montessori School
OMSI Camps & Classes
Camp Vida
Camp Vida is a daily adventure. Our seasoned professionals curate a rich environment that supports a vibrant and joyful community. Each week brings new thematic activities and opportunities. Ages: preschool (3 year olds) through kindergarten (6 year olds) Cost: $400 full day / $300 half day Dates: Jun 15-Aug 28 Reg. Deadline: May 29 205 NE 50th Ave Portland, OR 97213 503-688-2992 info@portlandmontessori.org portlandmontessori.org
SCIENCE / NATURE Mad Science of Portland and Vancouver Mad Science Day Camps
This year’s themes include Radical Robots, Rocket Lab, Secret Agent Lab, and more! Half day and full day options are available. Camps offered at multiple locations. Visit website for details. Ages: Ages 5 - 12 Cost: $185 - $370 Dates: Jun 15th-Aug 28th Reg. Deadline: Ongoing 1522 N Ainsworth Portland, OR 97217 503-230-8040
omf@oldmcdonaldsfarm.org oldmcdonaldsfarm.org
National Inventors Hall of Fame Camp Invention
Imaginations will soar in the all-new Camp Invention program, Elevate! Campers will collaborate in hands-on STEM activities exploring concepts of flight, Earth’s ecosystems and sports innovations! Visit invent.org/save to register. Ages: Entering grades K-6 Cost: Programs start at $235 Dates: Multiple locations and dates available Reg. Deadline: Registration is open through the week of your program Multiple Locations 800-968-4332 campinvention@invent.org invent.org
Old McDonald’s Farm, Inc. The Jr. Vet. Baby Bunny Week
Dreaming about becoming a Vet. or Vet. Tech.? Learn the diagnostic plan that Vets use to determine a treatment plan for bunnies. Our bus is available close-in, east side! Ages: Grade 4 and up Cost: $259 + $48 bus Dates: Jul 20-24 Corbett, OR 97019 503-695-3316
Have an unforgettable summer! OMSI offers 200+ summer Camps & Classes, making it easy for students K-12 to enjoy months of fun, friends, and adventures together. Create animated films, pilot a drone, become a junior veterinarian, and more with OMSI’s award-winning day camps & classes--or learn wilderness survival, dig up fossils, and learn to surf with OMSI’s ACA-accredited overnight camps. Ages: Grades K-12 Cost: Price varies. Financial aid available. OMSI Members save 20% off. 1945 SE Water Ave Portland, OR 97214 503-797-4000 Coastal Discovery Center at Camp Gray 3400 SW Abalone St Newport, OR 97366 Hancock Field Station 39472 Hwy 218 Fossil, OR 97830 info@omsi.edu omsi.edu
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26000 SE Stark St Gresham, OR 97030 866-846-7892 camps@breakthroughbasketball.com breakthroughbasketball.com
The Circuit Bouldering Gym Oregon Zoo
Oregon Zoo Spring and Summer Camps Oregon Zoo Spring Break Camp and Summer Camps are a great way to connect kids to animals and nature! Spring Break Camp runs from March 23-27, and Summer Camps run from June through August. Spring Break Camps are available for kids ages 4 through 6th grade, and Summer Camps for kids ages 4 through 8th grade. Ages: 4 through 8th grade Cost: $30-370 Dates: Mar; Jun-Aug 4001 SW Canyon Rd Portland, OR 97221 503-226-1561 education@oregonzoo.org oregonzoo.org
Tualatin Riverkeepers Nature Day Camp
Campers paddle alongside kingfishers, mink, eagles, otter, beaver, great blue heron and other wildlife right in the city! Our camps for kids ages 4 to 13, allow students to explore the natural world in a safe environment. All camps include hiking, arts and crafts, and games where your child is sure to make new friends and become a fledgling scientist. 11130 SW Tigard St Tigard, OR 97223 503 218-2580 info@tualatinriverkeepers.org tualatinriverkeepers.org
SPORTS / FITNESS / MARTIAL ARTS Breakthrough Basketball Camps Breakthrough Basketball provides skill development basketball camps for 4th 12th grade boys and girls. Ages: 4th-12th grades Cost: $180 Dates: Multiple, see website Reg. Deadline: Camp start date
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Camp Rockstar
We offer summer bouldering camps at all three of our locations! Kids climb in fun and social environment with our experienced instructors and build confidence on and off the wall. Ages: 5-12 Cost: $285 Dates: Jun-Aug 6050 SW Macadam Ave Portland, OR 97239 503-246-5111 info@thecircuitgym.com thecircuitgym.com
The Circus Project Keep your child spinning, flipping and jumping while school is out. Circus camp includes aerial trapeze, acrobatics, juggling, theater and more, and every week ends with a short circus show! Ages: Options for ages 5 through 15 Cost: $190-$395 Date: June 15-August 21 1420 NW 17th Ave Ste 388 Portland, OR 97209 503-764-9174 frontdesk@thecircusproject.org thecircusproject.org
The First Tee of Greater Portland First Tee Golf Camp
Golf Camp: Learn and have fun playing golf while learning The First Tee’s 9 Core Values: Confidence, Courtesy, Honesty, Integrity, Judgment, Perseverance, Respect, Responsibility and Sportsmanship. Ages: Ages 4-5 ($75 for 3-day) and ages 6-18 ($150 for 3-day, $225 for 5-day) Cost: $75-$225 Dates: 7/6-7/10, 7/13-7/15, 7/20-7/24, 8/3-8/7, 8/10-8/12 Reg. Deadline: Wednesday prior to each week’s camp 19825 River Rd Gladstone, OR 97027 503-722-1530 info@thefirstteegp.org firstteegreaterportland.org
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Forge Parkour This summer enroll in a range of camps including; Nerf camp, Ninja Warrior, Battle Royale, Survivor, Spy camp, and many more! Want your kids to burn off more energy? We have 2 hour all ages open gym sessions in between camps. Your kids will have a summer of fun; making friends and increasing their confidence. Ages: 7+ Cost: $125-$200 Dates: Jun-Aug Reg. Deadline: Early Bird Discount ends May 15th 311 SE 97th Ave Portland, OR 97216 503-477-8209 contact@forgeparkour.com forgeparkour.com
Gracie Barra SW Portland Ninja Summer Camp
Come join Gracie Barra for our summer camp. We will have fitness and agility drills, jiu jitsu, self defense and fun. More details available on our website. 17700 SW Upper Boones Ferry Rd Ste 135 Portland, OR 97224 503-372-9466 info@gbswportland.com graciebarra.com
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Jordan Kent’s Just Kids Skill Camps Created by University of Oregon Hall of Famer Jordan Kent, camps offer fundamental training in football, soccer, or basketball, along with agility training, games, life skills, and nutrition education, all while taking place in our exciting and engaging camp atmosphere! Full and partial day rates, Save $15 with code: PDXPARENT Ages: Boys and Girls ages 6-12 Cost: $185.95 Dates: Jun 15-Aug 13 Reg. Deadline: Aug 13 Greater Portland, 888-832-6984 info@jordankentcamps.com jordankentcamps.com
K-Lean’s Tennis @ Glendoveer Golf & Tennis K-Lean’s Tennis
Tennis/Golf development programs. We focus on providing a FUN, fast paced, and a game based approach. Our approach adds excitement and enjoyment for the kids as they learn through a progression of drills and games specific for each of the levels of play. We teach with passion, loads of energy, and space for kids to realize and attain their potential. Ages: 5 - 17 years old Cost: $168/wk (2hr), $278/wk (4hr), $448/wk Tennis/Golf (All Day) Dates: Jun 17-20; Jun 24-27; Jul 8-11; Jul 15-18; Jul 22-25; Jul 29-Aug 1; Aug 5-8; Aug 12-15; Aug 19-22 Reg. Deadline: Early bird 10% discount through Apr 2019 14015 NE Glisan St Portland, OR 97230 503-701-4408 kaleen@kleanstennis.com k-leans.com
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Nike Baseball Camps Portland Pickles
Team up with the amazing coaching staff at the Portland Pickles’ Nike Baseball Camp. Ballplayers will fine-tune their fundamental skills and leave with more confidence and smiles on their faces! Ages: 7-13 Cost: $259 Dates: 6/22-26, 7/6-10 & 7/20-24 Reg. Deadline: June 22nd 4727 SE 92nd Ave Portland, OR 97266 800-645-3226 baseball@ussportscamps.com ussportscamps.com
Soccer Shots Summer Camp
Our Camps Feature: Energetic, professional coaches; Low coach-to-player ratio; Individual soccer skill development; Team building; Fun fitness activities; Coordination, balance, and agility development; Character Development. Ages: 3 - 8 year olds Cost: $125-$195 Dates: Weekly camps are running all summer long! Multiple Locations Portland, OR 503-913-4542 coach@soccershots.org pdx.soccershots.org
To Every Kid
The TEK Center The TEK Center offers the most unique camps around! Robotics, Nerf, Dodgeball, T-Shirt design, 3D printing, Coding, Minecraft and more all in one spot! Fun & safe learning for K-6th!
Rose City Futsal Rose City Futsal Summer Camps are fun, balanced camps that mix soccer training with crafts, games and outdoor activities. These all-day camps, held in our air-conditioned clubhouses, are for kids who want an active camp where they can learn and practice futsal/soccer skills while spending the day having fun with friends! Ages: 6-12 Cost: $285 – RCF West, $295 – RCF East. After March 1st, $305 West, $325 East. Dates: All Summer Long! Reg. Deadline: Ongoing 5010 NE Oregon St Portland, OR 97213 503-734-2382 10831 SW Cascade Ave Tigard, OR 97223 971-727-8481 info@rosecityfutsal.com rosecityfutsal.com
Ages: K-6th Dates: Jun 8th-Aug 14th 5950 Willow Lane Lake Oswego, OR 97035 971-319-2814 tek@toeverykid.org pdxkidscamp.com
We Are Camp
Summer Ski, Snowboard, Mountain Bike and Skateboard Camps Ski, Snowboard, Skateboard or Mountain Bike all summer long at Windells Summer Ski Camp, High Cascade Snowboard Camp and Seek NW Skateboard Camp. 8-day residential sessions, professional coaches, tons of activities and fun. Bring your skateboard, scooter or wheeled device, our 28 acre campus is one big giant skatepark! All snow sports on real snow at Timberline. All abilities welcome. Ages: 9-99 Cost: $855-$2299 Dates: Jun 14-Aug 12 Reg. Deadline: Aug 5 59550 East Highway 26 Sandy, OR 97055 503-622-3736 office@wearecamp.com wyeastacademy.com
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