EDITOR’S NOTE

Growing up, back to school always meant a new pair of shoes. We’d load into the station wagon, hit the mall and return with magnificent new kicks to wear on the first day. That small trip suggested the changing of seasons and prepared us for a new school year.

What is your family’s ritual to mark the transition from summertime to back-to-school?

Anticipating fall, things cool down and outdoor sports practices juice kids in the afternoon. Weekends offer opportunities to visit local farms and a pumpkin patch or two. It’s harvest time, so the apples are crisp and abundant, squashes are everywhere and the brilliant autumn colors present themselves throughout town.

Riding horses also comes to mind as a prominent Central Oregon activity. In this edition, Nicole Blume explores the discipline of equine-assisted therapy in the Feature and makes a visit to Healing Reins where children can feel the healing power of these majestic animals.

Wrangling members of the family before the routine of school and extracurriculars kick in is not a bad idea. Annette Benedetti shares some helpful strategies for coming together and planning for success in Parenting.

Did you know that students with involved parents are more likely

to have higher grades and test scores, as well as have an easier time adapting to school? Find out just what it means to be an “involved parent” in Education.

If price tags are blowing your mind these days, do not despair— there are some wonderful discount and second-hand stores in Central Oregon, as well as Buy Nothing Facebook groups where free items abound. In Trending, you’ll find some worthwhile shopping tips for any budget.

Donna Britt comes through this edition in Family Time and shares her easy dinner ideas: Simple Butternut Squash or Sheet Pan Chicken? Both should be a hit with the family.

We are also proud to present, in Outdoors, the most comprehensive guide to pumpkin patches and local ranches in the region. Head to Terrebonne in search of the infamous corn maze and get lost in the fun. With animal options available there, squeals and giggles are guaranteed.

Enjoy some special family moments together this fall!

Central Oregon’s Most Trusted Pediatrics Group.

Providing expert care and advice for infants, toddlers, big kids, and teenagers.

Bend Eastside Pediatrics 2400 NE Neff Rd, Ste B Bend Old Mill District Clinic 815 SW Bond St Redmond Pediatrics 865 SW Veterans Way

541-706-2555 | smgoregon.com

Pediatric Care

JUNIPER’S CHILDCARE RETURNS THIS FALL!

kiddin’

‘round

CASCADES ACADEMY INVITES YOUR FAMILY TO GET TO KNOW OURS

For a great time for you and your kiddos, Bend Park & Recreation District’s fitness and swim centers are the places to be.

• KIDS’ CORNER CHILDCARE: It’s back!

Available at Juniper for ages 6 months to 6 years. Register in advance or drop-in to sync up with your fitness class or swim. • REC SWIM: All ages welcome. • FAMILY SWIM: All ages with adult. • PARENT-CHILD SWIM: Ages 6 & under with adult. • SWIM SPECIAL: $6.00/adult with paid child. • SWIM LESSONS: Ages 6 months & up. Schedules, fees and details at

bendparksandrec.org

Two great locations!

Juniper Swim & Fitness Center 800 NE 6th St., Bend • (541) 389-7665 Larkspur Community Center 1600 SE Reed Market Rd., Bend • (541) 388-1133

At Cascades Academy, challenging academics and authentic experiences come together within a safe, engaged community to shape the socially responsible leaders of our future.

Contact us today to find out more about our pre-k through high school program where:

• Teachers know & support students as individuals & nurture their social emotional growth • Experiential curriculum creates true engagement & a love of learning • STEM, Fine Arts, Athletics, & Spanish are essential pieces of the program • Students learn social responsibility & engage in community outreach • 9th-12th grade students receive College & Future

Counseling services & 1:1 guidance • 28% of families receive Tuition Assistance

CASCADES ACADEMY Independent School PK-12

19860 Tumalo Reservoir Road | Bend, OR 97703 541.382.0699 | info@cascadesacademy.org www.cascadesacademy.org

We are accepting applications for Fall 2023