PDX Parent September 2021

FREE

BIRTHDAYS ARE BACK! PLAN YOUR PARTY, PG. 16

for the long days and short years

Baby Talk

Readers’ Poll

WINNERS

Pregnancy &Baby FOR

pg. 18

EXPERT Solutions

for New

Parents PDXPARENT.COM

PORTLAND | SW WASHINGTON | SEPTEMBER 2021

We’re with you every step of the way.

Together with our partners at Hillsboro Medical Center (formerly Tuality Healthcare) and Adventist Health Portland, we’re here to support you the moment you decide to have a baby, through pregnancy, birth and recovery.

Learn more ohsu.edu/pregnancy

Who You Gonna Call?....................................................................... 10 New babies don’t come with an instruction manual! So, we’ve gone straight to local experts for solid solutions to common new-parent problems. Plus, how to talk to your partner about

contents

FEATURES

sharing parental duties before the baby comes.

By Kat Merck.

Celebrate Good Times.................................................................... 16 Find indoor and outdoor venues for kids’ birthday parties — plus, local kindie performers who will bring the festivities to you!

By Denise Castañon.

PDX Parent Picks Pregnancy & Baby................................................................................ 18

DEPARTMENTS Editor’s Note....................................................................................................4 Play Room...........................................................................................................6 Meet your new Multnomah Youth Commissioners, baby gift ideas and a new, stunning and state-ofthe-art birth center.

Neighborhood We

♥ .......................................................................20

This North Portland neighborhood might be most known as the home to the 31-foot-tall Paul Bunyan statue. But Kenton also has loads of charm, family-friendly restaurants and an updated public park.

By Tiffany Hill.

Kids Can Cook........................................................................................... 22 With help from the staff at Basics Market, teach kids how to knead dough and fill your home with the smell of freshly baked bread.

Family Supper........................................................................................... 24 Our editor and her family visit Moore Food & Company, a fun, Philly-inspired food cart on Southeast Division Street.

By Denise Castañon.

16

Time Out............................................................................................................26 Find outdoor fun for the family at Oktoberfest celebrations, the Portland Water Lantern Festival, Sherwood’s Robin Hood Festival and more.

RESOURCES: * cover stories

New Parent................................................................................................ 8-9 Back-to-School.......................................................................................... 19 Open House................................................................................................. 23

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e d i t o r ’ s n ot e

Babies and birthdays

I

struggled to come up with a letter this month for our New Parent issue because once your kids get older, you forget. You forget the blurry first few days home with a new baby: the nighttime feedings, the snuffling, grunting baby noises and the sheer terror at the realization that you are now responsible for keeping this squishy, new human alive. My kids are 9 and 6 now, and while there’s still plenty of worry about their well-being (especially in a pandemic), they are just so much more sturdy and capable. They can play LEGOS for hours without me feeling the urge to make sure they are breathing. (I guess I remember more about having a newborn than I initially thought.) Luckily, writer Kat Merck hasn’t completely forgotten either. Her story, Who You Gonna Call?, on page 10 highlights solid advice from local experts for common new-parent difficulties. From car-seat installation to help for dads experiencing the baby blues, you’ll find useful resources available to new parents. And we even have some guidance for parents who are struggling to conceive baby No. 2.

The other major feature in our issue is not hard for me to relate to — birthdays.

I love going all out for my kids’ parties, and I’m happy to report that Portland parents have so many more options for celebrating their kids these days.

You can choose from outdoor venues, indoor party spots or have local kids’ performers bring the party to you. Find out more on page 16.

I just remembered one more thing from those tiny-baby days: that intoxicating new-baby smell. Yes, it’s hard work being a new parent, but when it feels overwhelming, remember there are resources out there to help you — and then take a deep whiff of the top of your baby’s head. Because that scent does not last forever. And you’ll miss it more than you’ll ever know once it’s gone.

for the long days and short years

PDX Parent P.O. Box 13660 Portland, OR 97213-0660 Phone: 503-460-2774 Publisher Rose Caudillo, 503-460-2774 publisher@pdxparent.com Editor Denise Castañon, 503-922-0893 denise.castanon@pdxparent.com Managing Editor Tiffany Hill tiffany.hill@pdxparent.com Art Director Tiffany Howard tiffany.howard@pdxparent.com Web Content Coordinator Meg Asby meg.asby@pdxparent.com E-newsletter Editor Renee Peters renee.peters@pdxparent.com Eastside Account Executive Lauren Wylie, 503-331-8184 lauren.wylie@pdxparent.com Westside Account Executive Jill Weisensee, 503-309-8272 jill.weisensee@pdxparent.com Digital Ad Manager/Calendar Editor/ Distribution Coordinator Melissa Light melissa.light@pdxparent.com Operations Manager Christie Kline, 503-810-9817 christie.kline@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

Want exclusive content for family fun, resources and more in the

PDX Parent is published monthly (except

Portland area? Visit pdxparent.com! And be sure to subscribe

July) by Northwest Parent, LLC., and is

to our weekly newsletters filled with can’t-miss ideas for fun!

copyright 2021 Northwest Parent, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

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

PDX Parent reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. Distribution

On Our Cover: Mandy Tillitson of Tiny Times Photography took this supremely adorable dad-and-baby shot at Latourell Falls in the Columbia River Gorge. She’s been a professional photographer for 13 years and loves capturing a family’s magical moments. Her advice for families looking to get a great photo: “Don’t look at other family photos, don’t try to have ‘pose’ ideas in your head, just let your family be the way it is: quirky, silly, loving — even if kids are grumpy or sad, even if they don’t look at the camera and smile. These moments will be the ones you cherish when you’re old and gray.” View more of her work or get in touch with her at tinytimesphotography.com or on Instagram @tinytimesphotography.

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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You don’t float.

Life jackets do.

Wearing a life jacket is the best thing you can do to stay safe in water. The jacket has to fit to do its job.

Here’s how to find the right jacket for the right fit.

Questions?

Contact Metro staff at 503-797-1545.

For updates on Metro parks visit oregonmetro.gov/parks

Job 21029

1. The Silly Daisy sensory toy is a hit

something special with these five

for teeny hands learning how to move.

Oregon-made baby items.

the perfect snuggler. $99.50. At pendleton-usa.com.

4. Losing — and forgetting —

This Portland-made crinkle paper is

the pacifier. It’s a never-ending

sewn with biodegradable crinkly paper

struggle. This soft,

enveloped by cotton and soft minky

yet durable pacifier

fabrics. The 7-inch-by-7-inch square is

clip from Sparrow

surrounded with ribbon tags that your

and Bean is here

baby will love to chomp

to help. Handmade

on. $18. At sillydaisy.

TENDER LOVING EMPIRE

com. 2. We all know babies wear a lot of onesies. But this one, designed in Portland

by Genuine Portland

Sparrow and Bean also makes a

and-bean.myshopify.com. 5. Let

spell out “Portland,” allowing your baby

these fun, plucky

to rep her city. Well, for at least as long

babies remind you

as it’s clean. $26. Available in three sizes.

just how great our

At tenderlovingempire.com.

city is. Portland

3. Every baby needs a good

Baby by Barbara PENDLETON,

blanket. And iconic, woolen

SILLY DAISY

from mint to red to mustard.

Bean also makes). $16. At sparrow-

she’ll wear. Bold and bright block letters

The 157-year-old company

this rose clip comes in 23 colors,

gets older (which owner, Stephanie

be one of the coolest

has them covered, literally.

food-safe silicone,

great teething toy as your baby

Articles, might just

blanket company, Pendleton

in Oregon from

Kerley — who also calls Portland home — and illustrated by Josh Cleland, is a charming, 22-page board book

sells heirloom-quality crib

that you won’t mind reading night

blankets. Made from virgin wool and

after night. $8.95. At powells.com.

available in classic Pendleton patterns

— Tiffany Hill

and colors, this blanket is sure to be

Pay Attention: Speaking Up for Families As parents start to settle into the routine of a new school year,

experience, in addition to our day-to-day lives. It is essential

it’s easy to let advocating for issues affecting families move to the

that parents participate in the redistricting process to ensure

back burner. But Our Children Oregon, a nonprofit that speaks

our communities are represented with strong advocates for

up for the essential needs of kids in our state, shared these three important issues that it hopes parents keep their eyes on as the Oregon legislature heads back for another session this month.

families.

THE CHILD TAX CREDIT While the tax credit is a federal policy, ask your state representatives how they are ensuring

REDISTRICTING Oregon’s districts are being redrawn following the 2020 census, which added an additional congressional seat for the state. Reach out to your representatives or participate in the upcoming public hearings (September 8-13) and be part of this

your eligible neighbors are signed up to receive these monthly dollars so we can cut childhood poverty in Oregon in half!

STAYING ENGAGED AND CONNECTED Our Children

process. Why is it so important? Redistricting

Oregon is building a coalition of advocates

impacts not only who serves as our national and

called the All Children Thrive Collective, or

state representatives, but also influences who

ACT for short. You can become a member

is elected to our city councils and school boards,

of the ACT Collective and join individuals

too. These elected officials make decisions that

and organizations coming together for

impact our children’s schools and education

children and families. Learn more at ourchildrenoregon.org. — Denise Castañon

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SPARROW AND BEAN

Support local and give your little one

WORKMAN PUBLISHING CO.

p l ay r o o m

Top 5: Locally Made Gifts for Baby

Kids to Know: Using Their Voices As the past few years have demonstrated, teens have a lot to say — here’s looking at you Greta Thunberg, Marley Dias and Parkland, Florida shooting survivors — and we should all be listening. That’s why local organizations like the Multnomah Youth Commission (MYC) are vital in our

THE CITY OF PORTLAND OFFICE OF COMMUNITY & CIVIC LIFE

community.

2021-2022 MYC Members

This year, the MYC is celebrating its 25th anniversary. The organization, housed within the City of Portland’s Office of Community and Civic Life and the Multnomah

Aaron Vuong

Maria Garcia

Adam Calverley

Maxwell Robben

Adrianna Hayes

Meikelo Cabbage

Alvin Chan

Nina Gutierrez-

includes research on how youth of color perceive law enforcement, youth-targeted

Annalicia Rees

Desrosiers

COVID-19 mental health services, and later high school start times.

Arianna Perez Garcia

Noah Mekonnen

Becoming a teenage change agent is what inspired Daniel Interian to join three

Daniel Interian

Rakeb Mekonnen

years ago. “Change has always been something I’ve heard about, especially for

Deitriq Flores

Razanique Frankls

Emily Avendano

Rhiain Moore

Katie Lai

Salma Sheikh

Kimberly Cortes-

Sidisse Melda

there needed to be.”

Martinez

Suehay Mercado

Kira Alberti, a rising junior at De La Salle North Catholic says that the MYC staff and

Kira Alberti

Temneat Abebe

fellow members were also welcoming and supportive when she joined as a new

Lane Shaffer

Terrance L. Burton

Leo Adams-Pastor

Tracy Zhen

Madeline Coffman

Trevion Crane

Maria Elena Mulul Yat

Violet Williams

County Chair’s Office of Diversity and Equity, is Portland’s official youth-led advisory body. Teenagers and young adults, ages 13 to 21, apply to become members and collaborate with city and county offices on issues that matter to Generation Z. This

youth, but most of the change I saw and experienced was made by adult decision makers who decided what was ‘right’ for us from their points of view,” says the 17-year-old from Reynolds High School. “I wanted to be the one being able to stand up and use my voice to create change that myself and other youth felt necessary

member last year. “They offered so much insight and different points of view, which has really changed my mindset for the better,” she says. Alberti is now a co-chair of the MYC and looks forward to working with this year’s new members.

“We are the future of this city,” adds four-year MYC member and co-chair Alvin Chan. “Decisions made by the government will affect us when our time comes. It is extremely important that youth voices are represented in decisions that will affect us in the future.” —T.H.

In the Know: Sweet

Birthing Suites

If there’s one act that truly deserves the most luxurious of surroundings, it’s childbirth. And Legacy Health’s Randall Children’s Hospital’s

new Family Birth Center, doesn’t just deliver stunning city views and bathrooms gorgeous enough to be in a swanky hotel — the center’s most important feature is the comprehensive, coordinated birth care from specialty maternal, fetal and newborn health care teams. Whether lowrisk moms want to deliver in a birthing tub or women with unexpected complications require speedy surgical intervention, the 48,000-square-foot facility has state-of-the-art, well, everything including a level IV neonatal intensive care unit. (There’s even a gym and movie theater for those waiting for baby news!) Find out more at legacyhealth.org. — D.C.

RANDALL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

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NEW PARENT

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GET THE RELIEF YOU DESERVE Schedule an appointment with us today!

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We have 16 offices in Oregon, Northern California, Wahington and Idaho.

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Being a new parent can be scary! But we’ve

?

Wh

all

o n G n u a o C Y o asked local experts to give their best advice for helping you confidently overcome common new-parent problems.

BY KAT MERCK

Few experiences can compare with the sheer, unbridled terror of new parenthood. After what was probably one of the most exhausting, vulnerable days of someone’s life, if all goes well, they’re now suddenly responsible for keeping a tiny, impossibly fragile, 100%-dependent-on-themfor-everything human alive. And there’s no instruction booklet tucked in among the takehome bag of formula coupons and elephantsized sanitary napkins. Worse, the amount of conflicting parenting advice from well-meaning

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neighbors and family members is enough to make even the most level-headed, wellresearched parent feel like they left their brain at the hospital. Truth is, most kids end up spending the next five years living on dirt, boogers and fruit snacks no matter what their parents do, but new parents of babies don’t know that yet, and it’s human nature to try and do the best one can.

Below we’ve compiled some answers from real local experts (sorry, Aunt Lois) to a few of the more common questions that might arise during your first few weeks, months, or even year (we’re not here to judge).

My male partner has admitted to me that he’s struggling to find any joy in the parenting journey.

What should we do?

Sam Stevens, M.S., a licensed marriage and family therapist in Northeast Portland who specializes in paternal postpartum depression and anxiety, points out that dads indeed often need support just as much as moms do.

“One thing that’s important to remember,” he says, “is that dads are about one trimester behind moms in bonding with the baby; moms have been physically bonding with the baby for about nine months. For many dads I talk to, they say it didn’t become real until they saw the baby — before that, it’s kind of theoretical.”

Further, Stevens says, “Most dads weren’t raised with an expectation they’re going to be a dad and have a little baby and know what to do. Many girls are playing with dolls very early on or babysitting or encouraged to play with younger kids, and that’s a gendered thing in our society, but it has a big effect on what a dad’s experience is. And so as men take a more active role, they’re going to be encountering a lot of emotional turmoil and stress that used to be just moms. When you’re up in the middle of the night soothing a baby, you’re dealing with fatigue the next day — the stress of colic, caring for a crying baby, lack of time, lack of energy, lack of autonomy, lack of one-on-one time with your partner, lack of sex, lack of free time: All are things that impact both parents, they don’t just impact moms.”

Stevens says common signs that show your partner might be having a hard time are irritability and withdrawing. “It’s important to remember a personality change is what we’re looking for. If

they were considerate and caring and now they’re snapping and unkind and basically being a jerk, the odds are really good they’re not OK. And I would bring it up in that way: ‘You don’t seem like yourself, you seem like you’re not OK.’ I generally don’t use the words ‘depression’ and ‘anxiety’ with men at first, because those tend to hold a lot of stigma, but it’s easier to ask them if they’re overwhelmed, stressed out, having a hard time.”

And what if he doesn’t want to talk to a therapist?

“It’s an option, but not the only option,” Stevens says.

“It could also be talking to their friends — friends who have kids who are maybe a little bit older. That can be really helpful because they speak from a place of experience. Or it could be finding a dad’s group, or maybe finding a group online for support. A lot of times, men don’t realize they’re depressed or anxious because typically men try and tough it out or push through or put aside their needs. The other part is that dads don’t feel like there’s room for them to buckle or struggle because if they do that, they’re putting stress on their partner, and they feel guilty about that.”

Most crucial of all, Stevens says, is to cut yourself and your partner some slack. “Self-compassion is really important — if you don’t know what to do, at least do something. Better to be doing something … than to check out and do nothing if you worry about doing it wrong. As long as you show up, you’re fine.

Just keep them alive, and the rest you learn as you go.”

For more resources for men, visit samstevensmft. com. For postpartum depression resources for all parents, contact Baby Blues Connection, babybluesconnection.org.

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My mother-in-law insisted on installing the car seat, but I later found the manual untouched and unopened in its plastic packaging. How can we ensure our baby will be properly secured while in our vehicle?

What should I do if my baby’s latch feels like a wrathful snapping turtle, and how do I know if they’re getting enough milk?

According to Melissa Cole, M.S., I.B.C.L.C., R.L.C., and founder of Portland’s Luna Lactation & Wellness, “Feeding a snapping turtle, and a wrathful, hangry one at that, is no joke — while there may be a little tenderness in the early days of breast/chest feeding, true pain is a sign that something is not right.

“If your human baby feels more like a snapping turtle, barracuda, or chompy Pac-Man baby, then please contact an experienced IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) ASAP. Your baby should not be biting the nipple that feeds them, and when they are, it is a sign that something needs more support. Pain can be caused by suboptimal latch and positioning, oral anatomical or functional issues, or other parent/infant issues,” Cole says.

So, how can you be assured your baby is actually taking in milk and not just taking up residence on your boob like a 10-pound barnacle?

“By watching for input, output and growth,” Cole explains. “Input means feeds are frequent and active; usually about eight or more feeds in 24 hours for newborns, where baby is active and not just sleepily latched. Output means pees and poops; usually we look for at least five to eight wet diapers and one to three [or more] bowel movements for newborns within 24 hours. Growth means that your baby continues to gain weight appropriately.

While there may be some initial weight loss, we look for back to birth weight around day seven to 10 of life, and from there about 1/2 to 1 ounce (per) day gain for the first several months.

There are variables when it comes to input, output, and growth, so make sure to contact your care provider and IBCLC if you have any concerns about whether your baby is getting enough milk.”

Learn more about Luna Lactation at lunalactation.com, or for more IBCLC resources, contact the Mother & Child Education Center, momchildpdx.org/ connect/resources.

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Turns out this isn’t a conundrum to ignore out of deference, says Ben Hoffman, M.D., CPST-I, F.A.A.P., medical director at OHSU Doernbecher’s Tom Sargent Safety Center. “We know that more than 95% of people make at least one important mistake when installing car safety seats for children,” says Dr. Hoffman. “This can happen even when a manual is used. Mistakes such as misuse of the seat’s harness strap, or incorrect recline angles of the seat, are common because the reality is: car safety seat installation can be extremely complicated and frustrating.” Even if the manual can be located, the level of clarity of the instructions can vary widely. “Unfortunately, while these installation mistakes may seem minor, they can have a major impact on how the safety seat performs,” Dr. Hoffman says. “Should an auto collision occur, even the slightest twist in a harness or seat belt strap could increase the risk of severe injury or death of a child.”

So, what to do? Short of quitting your job and hoofing your baby around town in a carrier, “Scheduling an appointment with a certified child passenger safety technician at the OHSU Doernbecher Tom Sargent Safety Center is the best way to ensure your safety seat is installed properly,” Dr. Hoffman says. Booking an appointment is also an opportunity for you to learn how to properly install safety seats on your own in the future, says Dr. Hoffman — information you can retain for when you yourself are a mother-in-law installing your grandchild’s space seats in an electric hovercraft someday. For information on how to visit the Tom Sargent Safety Center, visit ohsu.edu/doernbecher/tomsargent-safety-center.

Pro tip: For those whose location may make it difficult to travel to Southwest Portland, Randall Children’s Hospital offers free virtual car seat education sessions via Zoom, Skype or FaceTime. Call 503-413-4005.

Talking to your partner about

shared responsibilities before your baby arrives An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, the saying goes, and this couldn’t be more true when it comes to the inevitable wrench a baby throws into a couple’s interpersonal dynamics.

“If you want equity in your parenting partnership, you’re going to have to talk about it head-on,” says Whitney Casares,

M.D., M.P.H, F.A.A.P., a local pediatrician at Pediatric Associates of the Northwest and author of The Working Mom Blueprint: Winning at Parenting Without Losing Yourself. “Think about dividing tasks and responsibilities like you would talk about running a business. Create a concrete list of what needs to get done, and assign an owner to each item on that list. Talk about what each of you expects around each task. What’s acceptable when it comes to laundry? How about weeknight dinners? Car maintenance?

Make it a point to have consistent follow-up business meetings, too. To consistently share responsibility with your partner, you’ll need to come back together frequently to discuss what’s working and what’s not.”

other tips from Casares 1. Designate your partner as the soother-in-chief.

“Count on your partner to be the expert on soothing techniques like swaddling, shushing, and swaying. If you are breastfeeding, you have a full-time job that requires rest, fluids, and patience to learn and perfect.

You are the feeder-in-chief. You’ll do your fair share of soothing as a function of that job. But your partner should take the lead on soothing so that you can accomplish your main mission: feeding your baby.”

2. Discuss getting educated together so you’re both baby experts. “How do people become experts in their fields? They study. If you are the only one in your family studying up on babies and parenting before or after your newborn arrives, you will feel as if you are the only one who knows anything, and you will be the only one who feels confident enough to take charge. Expect that both of you have a working knowledge of common baby issues and newborn care basics before your baby arrives so that you can problem-solve from the same educated perspective (and so you can both take responsibility when needed).”

3. Talk about how you plan to divide parenting roles and give each other respect. “Dads are not complete duds in the baby-care department, despite how most TV shows and movies depict them. Sometimes, we carry that same attitude toward our partners in real life once we become moms. ... The truth is, if we don’t allow dads and other partners the space to be amazing family contributors, not just as winners at the office, but also as dust-mop wielding, dinner-preparing, diaper-changing Jedis, we miss out on a ton of help and on a ton of balance in our lives and parenting partnerships.”

4. Embrace the differences. “Once your baby arrives, embrace that you and your partner may parent differently. You have probably always done a lot of things differently; your differences just haven’t been quite so in-your-face as they soon will be. … You may like different bottles; you may think certain toys are better than others. You may even have a different way of discussing which bottles or toys are the best!

That’s OK. Your differences will make you stronger together.”

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Have you been trying

for another child

for more than a year and have yet to see that magic line on a pregnancy test? Here’s what a local infertility expert recommends.

“Anyone who has faced secondary infertility knows that it can be an incredibly painful experience,” says Amanda Hurliman, M.D., a reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist at ORM Fertility in Portland. (Secondary fertility is defined as being unable to conceive after previously giving birth.) “If you are experiencing secondary infertility, there are some simple, proactive steps that you can take to help guide you through this.”

First, says Dr. Hurliman, is to seek professional help. “Engaging early in the process with a physician who specializes in fertility care will align you with someone who can learn your story, outline for you what is important and what may need to be evaluated, and can help you understand treatment options are available. I always tell my patients that it is my job to provide them with the information they need to make the informed decisions that are best for them.”

Second, this is not a time to beat yourself up or retreat into a pit of despair — be kind to yourself. “Sadly, guilt and self-blame go hand-in-hand with infertility,” says Dr. Hurliman. “I see it every day. The truth is, a vast majority of the time, the factors affecting your fertility are beyond your control. Try to give yourself the same compassion that you would to anyone else facing the challenges that you are. Allow yourself the chance to acknowledge and appreciate all that you are doing right.”

Last, evaluate your lifestyle to see if an upgrade might help. “This is one of the first steps that I take with the patients that I work with,” says Dr. Hurliman. “There may be simple adjustments that will positively influence your ability to conceive. While there is not a miracle fertility diet, I generally recommend the Mediterranean diet, which is based on whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats.

Maintaining a healthy weight is important … and try to get regular, moderate exercise.

And know that it is OK to enjoy yourself. It is OK to have a cup of coffee. It is OK to have a glass of wine. The important thing is to practice moderation, not deprivation.

Individuals planning to carry a pregnancy should be taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid. There may be additional supplements to support fertility in both female and male partners, however, these should be tailored to your individual needs and discussed further with your fertility specialist.” Contact ORM Fertility at ormfertility.com.

Kat Merck is a freelance writer and copy editor who lives in Southwest Washington with her husband and almost-9-year-old son.

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More and more birthday venues are opening back up to give kids parties to remember. We’ve got the scoop on indoor and outdoor venues hosting parties — plus local kindie performers who will bring the party to you.

BY DENISE CASTAÑON

I’ll be honest;

THE MERRY KITCHEN

part of me is actually going to miss the COVID birthday parades. It made me smile knowing someone was being celebrated when I’d hear a bunch of honks and see cars slowly driving by a house. But I’m also super excited that parents once again have more options for celebrating their kids’ birthdays at the local businesses that make our city such a fun place for families. Below you’ll find some indoor and outdoor venues now open, and local entertainers who will bring the fun to you!

Come On In

PARTY PLACES OPEN FOR INDOOR, IN-PERSON CELEBRATIONS.

Let the kids hang out — literally — at Aerial Dance PDX. Parties for up to eight kids include a dance warm-up, an aerial lesson on fabric and trapeze, and time to open gifts. Aerialdancepdx.com STEM-loving littles will revel in the kid-friendly lab experiments from Mad Science of Portland/ Vancouver. It’s open for parties at its facility, but the staff can also bring the science to you, or do parties virtually. Portland.madscience.org

Your birthday kid and up to seven of their friends can learn to cook tacos, sushi, sweet treats and more at The Merry Kitchen. (Pro tip: They eat their creations outside.) In-home and virtual options are also available. Themerrykitchen.com

Beloved play gym The Wiggle Room is back open for parties! Get the latest information on party guidelines from its website. Thewiggleroom.com Let kids get creative at Owl & Bee Clay Company.

Visit the studio or have the clay, tools and glazes brought to your home. Owlandbeeclaycompany. com

Visit Triskelee Farm for an outdoor farm party, which involves petting and feeding goats, alpacas, ostriches, bunnies, pigs, chickens, horses and more. For its indoor horseriding parties, kids can even ride a magical unicorn!

Triskeleefarm.com/parties

Editor’s note: As we all know, COVID-19 closures could happen again. As of press time, these businesses were confirmed to be open. Be sure to also check with each place for its masking guidelines. (Per the governor’s August mandate, masks are now required at indoor businesses.)

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The Great

PORTLAND GOAT PARTIES

Outdoors IN-PERSON, OUTSIDE PARTY VENUES. Have you heard of FootGolf? Colwood Golf Center’s got special courses for this combo of soccer and golf — and it’s a perfect party activity for sports-loving kids. Colwoodgolf.com/footgolf If your kiddo loves big machines, check out the tractor-ride birthday party option at Topaz Farm. Kids will experience a hay ride around the farm and get to explore the inside of the tractor, too. (There’s a farm animal option as well!) Pro tip: Parties are only offered seasonally from May through the end of September.

Topazfarm.com/birthday-parties Kids can have a U-pick farm party at Bella Organic. Depending on the time of year, kids can pick berries or veggies in addition to riding the cow train around the property. Bellaorganic.com/partiespicnics-groups

Want to pet baby goats at a birthday party? We’re not kidding when we say Portland Goat Parties will let you do just that at their farm. (They will even bring baby goats to your yard!)

Portlandgoatparties.com

Local Kids’

Performers

Bring the Fun!

Penny’s Puppets has several interactive show choices for birthday parties and will work to make your event truly memorable.

Pennypuppets.com

MATT LYNCH

Call Matt Lynch, aka Tallulah’s Daddy, to bring perennial kid songs, classic rock hits and original tracks to your kiddo’s party.

Makemusicwithmatt.com

Kelli Welli will perform her whimsical, tongue-twisting, kid-pleasing songs at your kid’s celebration. Kelliwelli.com Kindie folk-rock icon Red Yarn will travel to outdoor parties with his guitar and sassy critter puppets. His foot-stomping tunes are sure to turn any party into a barn dance!

Redyarnproductions.com

It doesn’t get more Portland than tall-bikeriding clowns OIive & Dingo. They’ll offer up stories, silly songs, incredible balloon animals and lots of laughs at your kid’s party.

Oliveanddingo.com

Magic, comedy, juggling, balloon animals — Spencer Sprocket does a little bit of everything to keep his audience entertained.

Spencersprocket.com

Local treasure, Mo Phillips, is back to singing for the littles. He’s got a Supa Dupa list of songs to keep kids jamming. Mophillips.com

Editor Denise Castañon goes a little crazy for her kids’ birthdays — and really wants someone to book Portland Goat Parties for her birthday.

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We’re excited to roll out the winners of the 2021 PDX Parent Picks! Here are our readers’ top choices in the

PREGNANCY & BABY categories. Find the

complete list of winners at pdxparent.com/picks-winners.

FERTILITY & SURROGACY RESOURCE

PREGNANCY & POSTPARTUM SUPPORT

Winner

Winner

OHSU Center for Women’s Health

OHSU

OHSU Center for Health and Healing, 3303 S

503-418-4500

Bond Ave., 10th Floor.

Ohsu.edu/womens-health/support-new-

Ohsu.edu/womens-health/fertility

parents

OHSU has been a leader in fertility treatments in Oregon. In fact, OHSU Fertility Consultants

support to adjust to their new roles —

was the first fertility program and the first successful IVF program in the state of Oregon.

Additionally, OHSU is a leading teaching and research institution and is always looking to further fertility and reproductive science. (One of OHSU’s current studies investigates the impact COVID has during pregnancy.)

OBSTETRICS & WOMEN’S HEALTH

OHSU knows that new mothers need and lives. So they offer mental health support, nutritional guidance and physical therapy. And many moms also join their helpful classes on breastfeeding basics and returning to work after having a baby.

Pro tip: Connect with other new parents through the (virtual for now) Baby Club.

Top 5

Top 5

All Families Surrogacy

Bridgetown Baby

Winner

Northwest Fertility Center

Doula My Soul Lactation Services

Women’s Healthcare Associates

Oregon Fertility Institute

Luna Lactation & Wellness

Multiple locations.

ORM Fertility

Portland Doula Love

Whallc.com

Surro Connections

Providence St. Vincent Lactation Store

Providers at Women’s Healthcare Associates go beyond obstetrics and gynecology to also handle genetic screening and counseling, mammography, and behavioral and mental health. And if you choose one of

HOSPITALS & BIRTH CENTERS

Winner

their midwives or physicians for childbirth,

Providence Health System

you can rest assured that you’ll have a

Multiple locations. Providence.org

whole team of professionals caring for you and your baby.

In Portland, Providence’s two labor and delivery departments are at St. Vincent Medical Center and Portland Family Maternity

Top 5 A Woman’s Time Northwest Women’s Clinic

Center. Both feature state-of-theart facilities, highly skilled teams of doctors, nurses and midwives,

Synergy Women’s Health Care

and neonatal intensive care units.

The Oregon Clinic

Another plus to choosing Providence

Top 5

providers for pregnancy and childbirth?

Alma Midwifery

Women’s Healthcare Clinic of Oregon, P.C.

Providence has its own free app to help patients track their pregnancies and eventually their babies’ health.

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Kaiser Permanente

Midwifery Birth Center/Women’s Healthcare Associates

Legacy Health

OHSU

BACK-TO-SCHOOL

fall theater classes

Now Enrolling K–8

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

REIMAGINE EDUCATION Schedule a tour today! admissions@renpdx.org

971.221.2311 | renpdx.org 234 S. Bancroft Street, Por tland 97239

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neiGhborhood we ♥

RACHEL BOGDANOFF, PORTLAND INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY

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

BY TIFFANY HILL

A

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

PLAY HERE

Mar

ine

Dr.

W

NP ort

lan

dR

d.

Like an emerald in a setting, Kenton Park sits nearly square in the middle of the neighborhood. The 12.4-acre park features a basketball court, soccer and softball fields, and our summertime favorite, a splash pad. In 2018, the city of Portland N. Portland Rd. N. Marine Dr. replaced the picnic tables, benches and drinking fountain plus — made N. Columbia Blvd.

N. Denver N. Chautauqua the playground and play surfaces more accessible. Another gemBlvd.of the N. Denver Ave. N. Lombardplayroom St. neighborhood is the Kenton Library. It’s known for its large used during storytimes and other programs. Just across the Columbia Slough is the Portland International Raceway, whereN.you can watch Chautauqua Blvd.

N Co lum bia B drag and auto races, motocross and more. It’s also home to the popular lvd.

Winter Wonderland holiday drive-through light show. t a u qua Blvd.

N Denver Ave.

Ch

au

N.

EAT HERE

N Lombard St.

North Denver Avenue is Kenton’s main street and serves as the neighborhood’s social hotspot. It’s also where many of its best eateries are located. For locally sourced coffee, house-made pastries and hearty sandwiches, Posies Bakery & Cafe is a neighborhood mainstay. Pro tip: There’s even a kids menu, with approved favorites like peanut butter and jelly and grilled cheese sandwiches. Residents love Fino Bistro and Pizzeria for its made-from-scratch pastas and pizzas. Kenton newcomer Casa Maya — which opened last year — already has a loyal following because of its tacos and burritos. Don’t forget to get a churro!

LIVE HERE

WHAT NEIGHBORS SAY

Median home value in Kenton:

Rachel Bogdanoff and her husband Kurt Brucato moved to Kenton two weeks before their daughter was born. That was 15 years ago and they’ve been proud residents ever since. “It’s been fantastic,” says Bogdanoff, who also has a 12-year-old son. Like many places in Portland, she says Kenton has developed over the years, including the addition of more houses, the library — which she and her family love — and new businesses popping up along Denver Avenue. “It’s easy not to leave the neighborhood. We can spend the whole weekend here.”

GETTING AROUND

SOURCE: WALKSCORE.COM

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51

Transit score

73

Walk score

94

Bike score

$492,188

Median rent in Kenton:

a month

$1,723

SOURCES: REDFIN, RENTCAFE.COM

Managing Editor Tiffany Hill loves living in Northeast Portland, especially when it comes to discovering and eating at restaurants and food carts in the area. She’ll never turn down sushi.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL BACK-TO-SCHOOL

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kids can cook

TECHNIQUE: Kneading AGE: 5+

Knead to Know Help kids learn how to knead dough for delicious homemade bread.

How to Knead

The staff at Basics Market finds kneading to be a great way for kids to build muscles and practice fine-motor control; it’s also a relaxing activity that supports mindfulness and focus, and builds confidence.

For little ones, break off a piece of dough and let them practice by making a tiny, bite-size loaf just for them — they’ll glow with pride. And kids of all ages will enjoy watching the dough double in size. It’s even more fun to “punch” it down and see it rise up again. This recipe is such a forgiving dough, there’s no way to mess up.

This simple loaf of old-fashioned, homemade bread is great for sandwiches, toast, or fresh from the oven slathered with soft butter and jam! That smell of fresh bread baking is one your child (and you!) will always remember — that and spending time in the kitchen learning this rewarding life skill.

Demonstrate how to press the dough with the palm of your hand, and then push and pull to make a smooth ball. Here’s how: 1. Push the dough away from you using the heel of your hand.

2. Pull it back toward you.

3. Fold it in half.

4. Repeat until the dough becomes soft and pliable and is no longer sticky.

5. Form into a ball.

Sandwich Bread Makes one loaf Ingredients

Instructions

1 ¼ cups warm water, about

1. Place water, sugar and yeast in a small bowl and set aside for yeast to bloom (about 5 minutes).

110° F 2 tablespoons sugar 1 package dry yeast (¼ ounces) 3 cups unbleached, white allpurpose flour, additional as needed for kneading 2 teaspoons Kosher salt 2 tablespoons roomtemperature unsalted butter, such as Lulubelle’s Creamery™ unsalted butter

2. Place flour and salt in a large bowl, whisk to combine and then add butter and yeast mixture.

Mix well to combine using a large spoon or your hands (which is more fun!). Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface.

3. Knead until smooth, elastic and no longer sticky.

4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with lightly oiled foil and a tea towel and place in a warm spot and let rise until doubled in size (about 1-2 hours).

5. Punch dough down in the bowl, cover and let rise again until doubled in size (about 1 hour).

6. Generously grease a loaf pan with butter or vegetable shortening — be sure to get it into all the corners! Preheat the oven to 375º F. 7. Put dough in the prepared loaf pan and let rise until doubled in size (about 30 minutes).

8. Bake until golden brown, about 35 minutes.

Basics Market is a locally owned grocery market with a purpose: nurturing strong, healthy communities through food with simplified selection, fresh ingredients and healthful recipes. Find more info and recipes at basicsmarket.com.

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OPEN HOUSE

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, OCT. 24 PRE-K THROUGH GRADE 12 Visit our website for further details:

OES.EDU/OPENHOUSE

503-768-3115 | oes.edu/admissions

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fa m i ly s u p p e r

Moore, Please!

Head to Portland’s coolest new hang-out spot, Moore Food & Company, for Phillyinspired food and attitude. (P.S. It’s very kid welcoming!)

For more family-friendly restaurant reviews visit: pdxparent.com/ family-supper

Right off the bat, we knew Moore Food & Company was going to be a cart to which we’d return. My husband, who hails from the East Coast, jokingly asked co-owner Sue Amick, who took our order, if they had any “Baltimore STORY AND PHOTOS BY cheesesteaks.” Her husband, and coDENISE CASTAÑON owner, Tom Amick fired back from the grill, “What’s a Baltimore cheesesteak?!”

My husband started to explain, and then started laughing at Tom’s joke cart is tucked away from Division because he knew a Maryland-style Street and paired with Moore Coffee steak sandwich with steak, cheese, cart, also owned by the Amicks. The lettuce, tomato and pickles is really carts, and the welcoming outdoor called a hoagie. Sue did kindly say that seating, are referred to as Moore IF YOU GO: 3576 B SE Division St. Closed they were considering a hoagie as a Alley.

We were there on an 84-degree Mondays and Tuesdays. Wednesday to special. All this to say — Moore Food is Thursday, noon-9 pm. Friday to Saturday, evening, but in the shaded area cooled noon-10 pm. Sunday, noon-8 pm. legit East Coast chow and attitude. They by softly rotating ceiling fans, it felt even offer a New Jersey staple: pork quite pleasant. A perfect spot to spend roll, a processed, minced ham usually sliced and fried. a late-summer evening.

The menu section names — despite the exclamation points — Our food came out quickly, and it was piping hot. Cruz was might give kids who can read the giggles: The Sh!t, This Sh!t, Other hungry and waved his corn dog nuggets around to cool them Sh!t and Kids Stuff. But, confession, half my son’s kindergarten between bites. Adela gave her quesadilla a thumbs up because she class may have heard much worse from me the time I logged him was able to stretch out the cheese. My Monte Cristo egg roll was in on the wrong day despite his protests. I didn’t call attention also too hot to eat at first. Moore’s version swapped out traditional to the section names and instead focused on what to order. My egg-battered bread for egg roll wrappers. The egg roll was much 9-year-old daughter, Adela, ordered the kids’ quesadilla ($5) and heftier than an egg roll you’d find in a Chinese restaurant — and my 6-year-old son, Cruz, asked for the corn dog nuggets ($6). My that was good and bad. Yes, it was packed with turkey, ham and husband got the cheesesteak ($12) and I was curious about the cheese, but the egg roll wrapper was uncooked in a few parts. (I Monte Cristo egg roll ($9). We also got an order of steak-cut fries to just ate around the doughy sections.) Nevertheless, it had that split ($4). Moore Food also has wine and several beers and ciders classic Monte Cristo taste and came with pancake syrup and jam on tap. for dipping. The cheesesteak sandwich was meaty and delicious — Once the hoagie discussion was tabled and we placed our loaded with thick slabs of mushrooms and spicy pickled jalapeños. orders. Adela and my husband started a game of chess while we My husband proclaimed it the best cheesesteak he’d had in waited. The outdoor space features an assortment of long picnic Portland. And we all loved the thick-cut fries. And like I said, we’ll tables, comfy chairs, hanging lanterns, and yes, a chess set. The head back, probably with visitors from the East Coast in tow.

Editor Denise Castañon loves exploring Portland’s family-friendly dining scene with her husband, 9-year-old daughter and 6-year-old son.

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Honoring the compelling 1950 UFO photographs taken

by Evelyn and Paul Trent in McMinnville, the 21st annual UFOFest will bring flyingsaucer enthusiasts, expert speakers and out-of-this-world fun to downtown McMinnville. Speaker events are ticketed, but admission to the costume contest, vendor fair and alien dance party is free. Visit ufofest.com for the full schedule.

Friday and Saturday, September 24-25. Vendor Fair: September 25, 10 am-6 pm. McMenamins Hotel Oregon, 310 NE Evans St., McMinnville. — Denise Castañon

Go. Play.

Explore.

Be sure to confirm the most up-todate info with event organizers before heading out.

Into Sherwood Forest

DENISE CASTAÑON

Find more family fun on our online calendar: pdxparent.com/events-calendar

Were your children sad to miss fireworks this summer? Make it up to them by celebrating at the Portland Water Lantern Festival.

Ticket price includes guaranteed pick up of each one, so you can watch your lantern float away and still sleep easy at night. Pack a picnic or feast at one of the local food trucks on site, and enjoy the live music and vendors. Saturday, September 11, 5:30 pm-10 pm, Laurelhurst Park. $35.99 per person includes lantern supplies and a commemorative bag. Waterlanternfestival.com/portland.php — Meg Asby

Sherwood’s annual Robin Hood Festival, typically a summertime affair, has been rescheduled for this month.

Your little knights won’t want to miss this trip into medieval times, featuring appearances by Maid Marian, Robin Hood and more — all in authentic costumes. There will be the annual parade of characters, an archery tournament, a traditional knighting ceremony, live stunts and theater, swordplay and fencing lessons, magicians and alchemists, music and dance, and so much more. Huzzah! Friday, September 24, 5 pm-10 pm; Saturday, September 25, 9 am-10 pm, parade at 10 am, dowtown Sherwood. Free admission. — M.A.

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You’ll find paintings, jewelry, photography, ceramics and more from local artists at the 25th annual Art in the Pearl outdoor fine arts and crafts festival. Plus enjoy food and live music as you stroll the booths. Find more info at artinthepearl. com. Saturday and Sunday, September 4-5, 10 am-5 pm; Monday, September ART IN THE PEARL 6, 10 am-4 pm. North Park Blocks in the Pearl District. Free admission. — D.C.

Raise a Glass Yes, Oktoberfest in these parts features stellar beer and is family-friendly — especially earlier in the day. For one of the largest celebrations on the West Coast, make the trek to Mt. Angel’s Oktoberfest. Multiple halls host dancers, accordion players, brass bands and more. Food vendors lining the streets sell everything from Bavarian pretzels to deepfried Oreos.

And the free “kindergarten” features a hay maze, bounce houses, petting zoo and more.

Find times, schedules and tickets at oktoberfest.org. Thursday-Sunday, September 16-19. Downtown Mt. Angel. Closer to home at the Oaks Park Oktoberfest, your kids won’t want to miss the weiner-dog races. Polka bands, German dancers and an epic chicken dance contest round out the fun. Friday-Sunday, September 24-26. Find times and tickets at oakspark.com/ oktoberfest. Ride tickets sold separately. — D.C.

CRAIG W PARKER

WATER LANTERN FESTIVAL

Makers’ Market

Light Up the Night

26

DEPOSITPHOTOS

time out

I Want to Believe

September 2021

Emergence!

Our

2021-2022 Season

Tickets on-sale September 1!

503-228-9571 | octc.org *These shows will be performed by our award-winning Young Professionals Company.

Impulse XV*

OCT. 29–NOV. 7, 2021

Merry Happy Everything!

The Very Hungry Caterpi llar Show FEB. 26–APR. 24, 2022

Twelf th Night*

NOV. 19–DEC. 19, 2021

APR. 29–MAY 15, 2022

WROL (Without Rule of Law)*

Last Stop on Market Street

FEB. 18–MAR. 6, 2022

MAY 1–29, 2022

™ & © PRH

FLU

VACCINE