Being Savvy: Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers and kids in Portland, OR

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5 Ways to Keep Cool During a Heatwave in Portland

July 28, 2009

Too hot, this town is too hot!
                        --The Specials

With the temperature hitting 105 and beyond the past few days, Portlanders are sweaty, tired and looking for the best ways to stay cool. Those of us lucky enough to have air conditioning are listening to it struggle to keep up with the oven-like conditions outside. The rest of us are seeking out shady/cool spots to take escape the sun. Here are five places to check out (if you haven't already packed up the car and escaped to the beach!)

1) IKEA  Head out to Cascade Station and spend a good portion of the day in air conditioned retail bliss. Start out your morning with a cheap but yummy breakfast. Watch planes come in for a landing while you munch on eggs and potatoes. Pick up a catalog and let your children plan a pretend shopping trip! Afterwards, drop the kids off for playtime while you browse independently. When the kids are down, pick up a roll of paper and some paints and go home to paint a picture of cooler climes!

2) Avalon/Wunderland Keep cool while you challenge your kids to skeeball or Dance Dance Revolution. Your kids will feel like high-rollers when you give them each a bag of nickels and allow them to pick out which classic games they'd like to try. If there's a kid-friendly movie showing, you can see a matinee and buy snacks for under $10. Enjoy lunch afterwards at Laughing Planet or a sweet treat at Saint Cupcake.

3) Regal Cinemas Free Family Film Festival  Each Tuesday and Wednesday, you and your children can catch a family movie for absolutely free at Regal Cinemas. (G/PG titles) Movies start at 10:00am and are first come, first served until theater reaches capacity. Bring the stroller along for some window shopping afterwards or head down to the bottom floor and watch the ice skaters--think cool thoughts!

Lloyd Mall 8
2320 Lloyd Center Mall
Portland, OR 97232
503-335-3760

7-28 and 7-29 Everyone's Hero (G)
                      Surf's Up (PG)
8-4 and 8-5     Igor (PG)
                      Journey to the Center of the Earth (PG)




4) Multnomah County Libraries The neighborhood library is a perfect place to duck in out of the afternoon sun. Kids can enjoy educational games on computers in the children's area or they can redeem summer reading cards for prizes (free ice cream cones at Ben & Jerrys anyone?) Check out some books, audio books or movies on a theme you can take home and expand upon. (A Charlie Brown Christmas in July always helps our family cool down!)

5) Portland Parks & Recreation  Check out all the pools, water parks, and splash pads all within a few minutes drive in the Portland Metro area. Columbia Park has spray features to cool down kiddos and Blue Lake Regional Park (Metro) is a great family destination with picnicking facilities, lake swimming, and cold concessions for sale. Wading pools in Portland will be operating extended hours during the heat wave!

Remember, stay hydrated and stay in the shade! This too, will hopefully pass, soon.










 Read more...

What's happening in PDX 7/25-7/26

July 24, 2009

Another weekend, another chance to get out and enjoy the city with your family and friends. Catch a parade, learn all about constructing chicken coops, and craft up some fun with recycled materials!

Saturday, July 25

The Division-Clinton neighborhood Street Fair is from 10am-5pm--come out and support the local vendors in your community. Parade is from 10:45am-noon (from 50th & Division to 20th & Clinton) Free eco shuttle will be running all day long. Pizza eating contest, snow cones, Joe Mishkin's Balloon Art, Ice Cream Social, and Lego Exhibit.
On Division from 11th to 50th and on Clinton from 14th - 28th.  See website for details. www.divisionclinton.com

Tour De Coops 11:00am-3:00pm

Head out on a self guided tour of up to 25 backyard coops and meet the chickens who live there!
Price: $10/booklet. Booklets include addresses & descriptions of each coop
and maps with suggested Tour routes, including safe bike routes! Purchase raffle tickets to win a chance to own specially designed coops of your own!
Pre-sale tickets available at these locations:

Urban Farm Store: 1925 SE Morrison St.
People's Coop: 3029 SE 21st Ave. (near Powell Blvd.)
Garden Fever!: 3433 NE 24th Ave. (at Fremont St.)
Livingscape Nursery: 3926 N. Vancouver Ave. (b/w Shaver St. & Fremont St.) 
Pistils Nursery:  3811 N. Mississippi Ave. (at Failing St.)

Later that night, continue the chicken theme and catch
Mad City Chickens--"a serious yet whimsical look at the people who keep chickens in their backyards. From experts and authors to a rescued landfill hen and an inexperienced family that decides to take the poultry plunge, it's a whirlwind trip through the world of backyard chickendom."
Vendetta 4306 N. Williams 8pm.

SCRAP Art 11:00am-1:00pm
Work with an artist from SCRAP to create a unique piece of art from reused and reclaimed materials. Presenter is bilingual, Spanish/ English presentation. Limited seating.
North Portland Library, 512 N. Killingsworth St. Portland

Steve's Creature Feature 11:00am-noon
Explore the amazing world of reptiles with Steve! Hosted across the street from the library, at Dewitt Park.
Hillsdale Library, 1525 S.W. Sunset Blvd. Portland

Family Habitat Hike 9:30am-11:30am
Join a naturalist from the Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District on a guided hike through one of the many different habitats of Cooper Mountain. Strollers discouraged. All ages welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. $8 per person. Up to two children (ages 10 and younger) may accompany each registered adult for free. Advance registration required; call 503-629-6350.

Cooper Mountain Nature Park, 18892 SW Kemmer Road, Beaverton


Sunday, July 26

Sundays For Families 12:30pm-3:00pm

In July, visitors of all ages can learn about Indian art in the Brantley Gallery, including the statue of Ganesha, a Hindu god with the head of an elephant.

Family Tours: 12:30 p.m.
Outdoor Art Making: 1 - 3 p.m.
Story Time: 2:30 - 3 p.m.

Free for children age 17 and under. Free for Museum Members and with Museum admission.

Portland Art Museum 1219 SW Park Avenue, Portland



Forest Music 2009 2:00pm-3:00pm
Enjoy the Rose City Timberliners Barbershop Chorus in the serene setting of Tryon Creek State Park. Free event.
Tryon Creek State Park, 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd.  Read more...

What's Happening in PDX 7/11-7/12

July 09, 2009




The sun might actually make a return this weekend, so celebrate the end of grey skies! See how long you can stay outside and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city this weekend! Go by bike, foot, scooter, or public transportation to cut down on cars on the road and really enjoy your surroundings. Smell that? It's summer in the Northwest!



Saturday, July 11th



Ladybug Nature Walk   10am

Toddlers will love this nature discovery walk! They get to borrow special plush ladybug packs full of all sorts of nature detective gear. Walk host engages child and parent on a fact-filled morning out. This week's walk meets at Mt. Tabor park (not stroller friendly)
$3/per child
Portland Parks & Recreation    503-823-3601


Pirate Maps  11:00am-1:00pm

Yaaaaarrrrrrrr! Artist Sarah Ferguson shows you how to create a pirate map.
North Portland library     512 N. Killingsworth St.  503-988-5394

Can't Sit Still Storytime 2:00-2:30pm
"Is your child always on the go? The pitter-patter of little feet just won't stop? Quiet listening not an option? Some children just can't stop moving and making noise. Our noisy and interactive program is designed just for them. For children ages 3 years and older with adult."
Central Library  801 SW 10th Ave   503-988-5123


Mississippi Street Fair  10:00am-9:00pm
Bring your tall bike, your dogs, and kids down for the Mississippi Street Fair! Arts & crafts, food, drink, people watching!

From the Street Fair website:

Fun Activities for all, all day:

10-7pm Local Market - featuring interesting arts & crafts vendors plus community service displays & food vendors
Tupello Alley Reusable Art Fair & Water Features
Kids Area - Boise Eliot Eliot Elementary features bouncy castles and kids games for all sizes at Beech
Bingo - lots of prizes
Sustainability Fair at the Mississippi Avenue Lofts (4138 N. Miss Ave)
Salted Ice Cream outside at The Meadow (3731 N. Mississippi Ave)
Rose wine tasting inside at The Meadow

12:00 Children's Parade - starts at Beech

Four stages - featuring a multi-cultural roster of entertainment

10am-9pm MAIN STAGE at Shaver (middle)
1pm Norman Sylvester
2pm Freak Mountain Ramblers
3pm The Dimes
4pm Linda Hornbuckle band
5pm
6pm The SEI Sounds of Soul Gospel Ensemble
6:40 Matt Sheehy Band
7:30 pm Weinland

11am-10pm SIDE LOT STAGE (Mississippi Station)
1pm Nathaniel Talbot
2pm Sneakin Out
3pm James Low
4pm
5pm Bridgetown Saints
6pm Swing Papillon

11am-7pm DANCE STAGE at Fremont (south end)
Celilo
Tezeta Band
Samba Sol
Taylor Newville
Sudden Anthem
The Beauty
Funk Plastic
Cloaked Characters and Mosely Wotta

11am-7pm ACOUSTIC STAGE at Skidmore (north end)

Businesses and eateries along Mississippi will be open on the street for patio dining & summertime refreshments:

Por Que No? Floating Margarita Garden
Mississippi Pizza & Pub Beer Tent
Amnesia Brewing Patio
Lorenzo's Patio
Mississippi Station Patio
Crow Bar Bar
Casa Naranja Patio
Pastaworks Wine Tasting Patio

11am–9pm CRAFT BEER TASTING - Local Organic Beer Tasting at Shaver (by the Main Stage)

Featuring:
Roots OG Brewing
Hopworks Urban Brewery
Lucky Labrador Brewing Company
Deschutes Brewery
McMenamins Breweries

All activities take place on Mississippi Avenue (between N Fremont and N Skidmore) 



Family Habitat Hikes   9:30-11:30am
"Join a naturalist from the Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District on a guided hike through one of the many different habitats of Cooper Mountain. Strollers discouraged. All ages welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. $8 per person. Up to two children (ages 10 and younger) may accompany each registered adult for free. Advance registration required; call 503-629-6350."
Cooper Mountain Nature Park  18892 SW Kemmer Road, Beaverton

Bastille Day Celebration  noon-8:00pm

Kids will want to spend all day in Le Jardin Des Enfants with crafts, the tombola, face painting, hacky sack, horse shoes.  Ballet dancers, cooking demos, live music, and roaming mimes!
Jamison Square Park  NW Johnson St & NW 10th Ave



Sunday, July 12th

11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd
Portland


Sunday for Families  12:30pm-3:00pm
In July, visitors of all ages can learn about Indian art in the Brantley Gallery, including the statue of Ganesha, a Hindu god with the head of an elephant.

Family Tours: 12:30 p.m.
Outdoor Art Making: 1 - 3 p.m.
Story Time: 2:30 - 3 p.m.

Free for children age 17 and under. Free for Museum Members and with Museum admission.

Portland Art Museum 1219 SW Park Avenue  503-226-2811

 

 

Tryon Creek Junior Ranger Program 1:00-2:00pm

Fun for ages 6-12! Join a park ranger and learn how you can help protect our natural resources, plants and animals. Participating in nature games, nature crafts and park explorations will help junior rangers earn their badge.This week's topic is "Tracking"

Parents must sign a permission slip before children participate. We strongly encourage parent participation with children.Free, no registration needed.

Tryon Creek State Park 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd, Portland  503-636-4398  Read more...

Fun Facts about the Multnomah County Library

July 07, 2009



Every year, my daughter Ramona looks forward to the start of the Summer Reading program through Multnomah County library! She enjoys earning prizes (books, trinkets, or coupons towards swimming/ice cream/play tickets) and the piece de resistance--the Summer Reading shirt! Our city's summer reading program is super impressive--from the library's website "Nearly 58,000 babies, children and teens registered for the Summer Reading program in 2008, making it one of the largest in the nation." The reading program runs until August 31st.

  • Did you know the Multnomah County library has a place for your children to submit poems they've written or book reviews? These are creative ways to get your children more involved with the Reading Program and encourage developing literacy over the summer break from preschool/grade school.

  • Use the Event Finder to find family events in your neighborhood. During the Summer Reading program, each branch generally has special programs for young children (Mad Science, Captain Bogg + Salty, puppet shows, etc) and on Wednesday, July 15th, from 11am-noon, and again from 1-2pm at the Gresham Library, Courtney Campbell (from the now defunct Mustard Pancakes show) will perform There's a Dinosaur in the Backyard!
  • The library has two used bookstores: 

        Tidal Wave bookstore (216 N.E. Knott), open Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m) you will find books, records, DVDs, videos, magazines, a huge selection of children's books and cookbooks. Sale of withdrawn items benefits library.


        Friends' bookstore (Multnomah County Central Library, 801 SW 10th Avenue, Portland) Here, you will find high quality used books, Portland-related ephemera, (it's where we found our beloved Ramona Quimby shirt) Inside main branch to your left when entering.



  • The library also houses (online and physical) extensive book lists such Creative Activities for Young Children, Books for the Youngest Book Lovers, Classics, Adventure stories,Caldecott and Newbery winners, and books recommended for each age group. 

  • One of my daughter's favorite features of the library website is the page that lists websites devoted to authors and illustrators. This is a great jumping off place to write to Jan Brett after reading "The Mitten" or for exploring Dr. Suess' world.

  • The "Around Portland" feature lists where to see animals in the Portland Metro area and beyond, with info about local parks, museums, day trips, or places to see sporting events.

  • The library website also lists a clearinghouse of entertaining websites (We especially love the sounds in different countries website when my girl was smaller--how do people make a rat-like sound like in japan?).

At this point, you may want to go ahead and change your homepage to the public library, like we have! It offers such a wealth of information, for every member of our house. Now if I just could move in, (slumber parties at the library!), life would be perfect.  Read more...

Konichiwa Japan!

June 29, 2009



Having just survived a nine day trip with my daughter, all the travel I'm down for in the next few weeks involves our imagination and the internet! Just a two hour time difference continues to wreck havoc in our household even four days after our return, as my daughter continues to spring awake before six am and I'm still battling the piles of dirty laundry from our suitcases.

 My daughter shares my passion for collecting all things Hello Kitty and lately, we've been talking about making our dream of traveling to Japan come true. I've told my daughter we'll make there before she graduates high school; she's convinced she'll be packing her bags by the end of the month with all the nickels she's saved up (!) I've been planning a virtual trip, want to come along with us?

 --Check out the Little Travelers Japan DVD from your local library. This sweet movie follows the journey of two home-schooled children and their mother as they travel to various countries and immerse themselves in culture and joys of life. Join Chantel and Nakia as they explore daily life, cherry blossoms, and new foods in Japan! My daughter loves this series of films and is anxiously awaiting a new chapter of their travels. Very simple and captivating vignettes will keep even very young children interested.

 --Dream big, plan your trip and destinations online! Print out maps, chart your course, and let your children imagine all the places they will go. Send away for maps or scour thrift stores for old copies of National Geographic to find maps to pin up on the wall and use some yarn to detail your "journey". What animals live where you are going? What do people eat there? Make clothing or instruments that reflect the culture of the country you are investigating.

--Art can help take you there! We are going to make paper cranes, paint cherry blossoms, and create Hello Kitty themed paper dolls. My daughter and I are obsessed with pop culture and have fun collecting miniature sushi and other teeny tiny foods from Re-ment. Your investigations can be as simple as checking out a cd of traditional music from the library and dancing around the livingroom or as complex as recreating Roman architecture out of Model Magic! Have fun with it!

 --Sample foods you and your child may have never tried before. For Japan, we are making a trip to FuBonn for a sampler of Pocky, biscuits, noodles, and mochi. (You can also sneak in some interesting and unusual fruits and vegetables too!)

 --Learn to count to ten, or twenty in a foreign language! Check out  “Count Your Way Through Japan” or “I Live in Tokyo” for inspiration.

--Research the currency of the country you have chosen.
 Read more...

Illustrator: Three books by Pamela Paparone

June 23, 2009

Children's books, and especially their illustrators, have special place in my heart. Back as far as five years old, I wanted to be a children's librarian so that I could surround myself with words, pictures, and crinkly plastic covers. The librarian dream hasn't become a reality as of yet, but I make a point to keep up with current children's releases (thank youMultnomah County library and Powell's) and I also have a wicked vintage book collection.

One of the most beloved illustrators in my collection is Pamela Paparone. I discovered her sweet, retro work by chance in the library and my daughter and I constantly bring her books out to pour over the cheerful artwork. (We even incorporated kitties from "I Like Cats" as part of the decorations for my daughter's sixth birthday party.) Here are several books featuring her artwork that your child is sure to adore too:



Raindrop, Plop!--I wish I could jump inside this book and splash around with the main character! I loved to read this book on a rainy day with my daughter (now she reads it to me) and then make cocoa together. This book uses rhyme and counting to tell the story of a little girl who is wishing for the sun to return and her many animal companions. If you can find the book/tape set used, it would be a cozy activity for a rainy day in the Northwest.




The Little School Bus
--If I come across this book while cleaning in my daughter's room, I always have to stop and sit down to read it. The pictures are so silly and cheerful. It's one of those books that I truly enjoy reading (much like the Skippy Jon Jones series of picture books). The words have a rolling rhythm that lend themselves to repeated reading, and each scene has lots of hidden details. Look for all the working animals and their everyday lives! "A quick, quick chick, a fox with socks...." The colors in this book make me think of cupcakes, and old Fisher-Price Little People toys. It's a true delight for parent and preschooler!





How a Baby Grows--I used to read this board book to my daughter every night (nestled in the rocking chair) as part of our night time routine from the time she was just a month or two old. She was captivated by the simple, calming pictures, and the repetitive words. It's short and has simple illustrations of every day objects that your baby can recognize. A perfect book for snuggly time with a parent or caregiver after a bath!

 

 

Who are some of your favorite illustrators? 


 Read more...

What's Happening in PDX 6/20-6/21

June 18, 2009

Summer is upon us! If you're not too busy picking strawberries or lazing about in your backyard enjoying the break from school, Portland is packed full of fun family activities this weekend. The Sunday Parkways event returns and looks to be an amazing community building celebration. Look for two subsequent Sunday Parkways events in Northeast/Southeast Portland later this summer!

 

 

 

Saturday, June 20th

 

Mad Science: Spin, Pop, Boom!  2-3 p.m.
"How do you know that a chemical reaction has occurred? Start with a change of color in our chemically challenging “magic” trick. Move on to an assortment of experiments featuring both chemical and physical changes. Watch in awe as the Mad Scientist creates numerous versions of erupting science! Everything is guaranteed to be amazing!" Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program.
Gregory Heights Library   7921 N.E. Sandy Blvd. Portland     503-988-5386

Felty Finger Puppets     3-5 p.m.
Use felt, fabric, wool yarn, buttons and other embellishments to create your own charming finger puppets. Artist Shanon Scholian will show you how in this two hour workshop.
Belmont Library   1038 S.E. 39th Ave. Portland       503-988-5382

Balloon Fairy Workshop     3-4 p.m.
Construct your own fabulous balloon hat creation!
Rockwood Library 17917 S.E. Stark St. Portland  503-988-5396

Family Nature Walk-Sauvie Island 9:00am-1:00pm

This is an easy 2.9 mile loop with little or no elevation gain. This peaceful hike runs through white oak woodlands, grassy meadows and the shores of Sturgeon Lake. Blue herons and other abundant bird life will be seen along the peninsula. This is a good hike to bring your binoculars. Approximate walking time 1-1.5 hours. There are no bathrooms at this trailhead. This outing is open to the public.

Contact leader for announcement of location and directions.

For more information, contact Jean Rystrom at (503) 282-2905 or rydick@toast.net.

 

Berry Jam-11:00am-4:00pm

Head to Kruger's this Father's Day weekend to celebrate Papa and Oregon Strawberries! There will be hayrides, music from Trashcan Joe and New Iberians, Jam-making Demonstrations, Farm Animals, and fun. Face Painting, U-Pick berries, Strawberry Shortcake, Food (Fresh Roasted Corn!) & Drink available for fee. 

Kruger's 17100 NW Sauvie Island Road, Portland 503-621-3489

 


Meet Biscuit the Dog! 11:00am

Bring your camera and tell all your friends! Come meet a familiar pooch from some of your child's favorite stories.  We'll also read Biscuit stories and have fun with Biscuit activities, too. Join us!

Barnes & Noble-Clackamas Center 12000 SE 82nd Avenue, Portland 503-786-3464

 

Ladybug Nature Walk 10:00am

Bring a snack and enjoy a guided hike! Learn about our local parks and the wild critters that live there!

Walks take place regardless of rain/shine. $3/child, adults free.

Laurelhurst Park- SE 39th Ave & Stark


Day Out With Thomas  (Trains run every hour from 9:00am-6pm)
Peep peep! You too can go for a ride on Thomas the Tank, meet Sir Topham Hatt, and participate in a plethora of train themed activities in Hood River on the Mt. Hood Railroad. Advanced tickets recommended, check website for details and pricing.
Mt. Hood Railroad 110 Railroad Ave., Hood River, OR 800-872-4661


 

Sunday, June 21st

 

Sunday Parkways  9:00am-4:00pm

A 2-way route of city streets open to walk, bike, roll, run, jump & skip - without having to watch out for cars! The 7.5-mile North Portland Sunday Parkways route will have two loops.  A 3.2-mile loop through Kenton and Arbor Lodge neighborhoods. And a 4.5-mile loop connecting Arbor Lodge and Piedmont neighborhoods via the Bryant Pedestrian Bridge and North Ainsworth.  The scenic Willamette Bluff will once again be enjoyed. Featured parks/activity areas: Arbor Lodge, Kenton, and Peninsula Parks.

 

Peninsula Park

 

Activity Vendors/Sponsors

On Point Community Credit Union
FootTraffic
Hoopshine hula hooping
Clif Bar
Prananda yoga
Alberta Coop Grocery
Teatro Graxa Stilt Walkers
Pedal Bike Tours
Metropolis Cycles
North Portland Connections
Port of Portland N. Runway Extension Project
ZipCar
Sixth Street Gallery/Mosaic Arts Alliance
Portland Parks

Parks City Nature
REI/ Parks
Free Ready Rider Workshop from BTA/Bridge Pedal/Safer Routes to Schools
The Portland Pounders Wheelchair Rugby Team
Suzanne Lady DC
Piedmont Neighborhood Association

 

Food Vendors

The Limp Noodle
Urban Opportunities Voodoo Donuts
Headwaters Café
NW Hot Dogs
Village Crepery
Zuppa
Al Forno Ferruzza
Fuego


Entertainment

Shannon Tower Band
Stumptown Jug Thumpers
The Sprockettes
Portland Recorder Orchestra

 

Arbor Lodge Park

 

Activity Vendors/Sponsors

Circus Cascadia
Serious Juggling
Clif Bar
Clif Kids
Milagros Boutique
Kaiser Permanente
North Portland Connections
The Jumping Jackie O's
METRO & Trimet
Bike Farm
Portland Bike Tours
Daybreak Cohousing
Senior bike Program
Stay Pet Hotel
Lions Club
Rose City Roamers
Portland Parks
Pesticide Free Parks
Luna Yoga
No Po Mobile Shop
Ride Connection
Bike Empowered

 

Food Vendors

Super Dog
Katmandu Café
Beaterville Café
Family Tree Nut Company
Spunky Monkey Coffee
Sipping Dreams
Dixon's Rib Pit


Entertainment

Carroll Raaum Swing Orchestra
The Atonements
Carolina Pump Station
Vintage Fashion Show presented by AlexSandra's Vintage Emporium
Nuborn Tribe

 

Kenton Park

 

Activity Vendors/Sponsors

N. Portland Tool Library
Port of Portland
Kenton Family Wellness Center
PUMP/Gateway Green
Yakima Products Inc.
Columbia River Crossing
Community Cycling Center
Your Sustainable City
Ma-Josh-O the Magician & Brian Proctor Magic
Willamette Pedestrain Coalition
ReDirect Sustainable Business Guide
Portland Parks
U Car Share
Portland Wheelman
Portland Village School
North Portland Connections
LIFE Fellowship Church w/ Koldkist water
Kenton Neighborhood Association

 

Food Vendors

Café de la Soul
Northstar Coffee House
Soup Cycle
Project Hope
Village Crepery
Elephants Delicatessen
Fuego
Dovetail Bakery

 

Entertainment
Providence Hospital Orchestra
Tater & Craig
Donna & the Side Effects
The Michael Pan Band

 

 

Berry Jam-11:00am-4:00pm

Head to Kruger's this Father's Day weekend to celebrate Papa and Oregon Strawberries! There will be hayrides, music from Trashcan Joe and New Iberians, Jam-making Demonstrations, Farm Animals, and fun. Face Painting, U-Pick berries, Strawberry Shortcake, Food (Fresh Roasted Corn!) & Drink available for fee.
17100 NW Sauvie Island Road, Portland 503-621-3489

Day Out With Thomas  (Trains run every hour from 9:00am-6pm)

Peep peep! You too can go for a ride on Thomas the Tank, meet Sir Topham Hatt, and participate in a plethora of train themed activities in Hood River on the Mt. Hood Railroad. Advanced tickets recommended, check website for details and pricing.
110 Railroad Ave., Hood River, OR 800-872-4661

Celebrate Father's Day at the Children's Museum  9:00am-5:00pm

Spend the day with us celebrating the father figures in your life.

Nature hikes at 11am & 1pm, Create tree wood cookies 10-12, $1, Wood works from Noon-2pm. Under age 1, free. Ages 1-54 are $8
Children's Museum   4015 SW Canyon Rd. Portland 503-223-6500

 

Oregon Historical Society: Family Day Celebrating - The Amazing World of Claymation. noon-5:00pm

Meet award winning film maker, Will Vinton and learn more about Claymation at 1pm.  Family activities, include the opportunity to help make a pixelation, or better known as a stop-motion film and creating clay figures offered from, 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Free admission for all. 

Oregon Historical Society 1200 SW Park Avenue, Portland 503-238-7433

 Read more...

What's Happening in PDX 6/13-6/14

June 11, 2009

School's out---for summer! (Cue Alice Cooper guitar riff here) I don't know about your kids, but my just-finished-with-kindergartener is ready for long summer days with friends, afternoons at the park, and the Summer Reading Program through Multnomah County Library. The Portland Metro area has a ton going on this weekend, enjoy!

 

Saturday, June 13th

 

$5 Booster Seats 10:00am until 1:00pm

Booster Seats are available to families in the Portland Safer Routes to School Program for $5.00 (Retail cost $13.99 for no back boosters and $29.99 for high back boosters). Please print this page to take advantage of this offer. Children must be present and should weigh over 40 pounds.
Families must bring their car and have lap and shoulder belts in the back seat. Supply is limited so first come, first served. Limit one booster seat per child.

Burlington Coat Factory Janzen Beach, 1718 Jantzen Beach Center    ACTS Oregon Child Safety Seat Resource Center, 503-643-5620.

 

 

Dig In! at the Oregon Food Bank's Learning Garden  9:00am-noon

Help feed Portland! Volunteers of all ages and garden experience levels are needed to help maintain the gardens. Tasks often include digging, planting, weeding, thinning, harvesting, composting. No prior experience is necessary; training will be provided. The garden is open rain or shine, so please be sure to dress for the weather. All ages are welcome to participate in this project, but children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers under age 18 will need to bring a waiver signed by a Parent/Guardian.

Visit www.handsonportland.org to sign up and receive location information.

 

 

Cirque du Cycling noon-7pm

Schedule of Events:

Grand Central Fun Zone for Kids (714 N. Fremont) 12-3:00pm
Family Ride Registration + Bike Safety Activities
Family Ride Departs 1:30pm
Art Bike Parade 3:00pm-3:30pm
Live Performances 4:30pm
Two-Way Street Racing 5:00pm -7:00pm

Cirque du Cycling takes place on Mississippi Avenue between Shaver and Fremont. The street will be closed to traffic.

 

$5 Bike Helmet Sale 10:00-2:00pm

All bike helmets are only $5! Helmet fitting and adjustments available. Helmet sizes: Toddler to Adult. Bring your old helmet to be recycled.

Two locations:

  • Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center Healthy Kids Fair
    2211 NE 139th St – Vancouver, WA
  • Sunset Community Bike Safety Fair
    14986 NW Cornell Rd – Portland, OR 

 

Metro's 2009 Gardens of Natural Delights Tour noon-4pm (Gresham area)

Check out fantastic flowers, edibles, a manicured lawn and naturescapes; enjoy short seminars on growing native plants and composting.

To register, call the Metro Recycling Information hotline at 503-234-3000. For more information about this year’s tour program or the new lineup of workshops and hands-on natural-gardening activities at Metro’s demonstration gardens in the Portland metropolitan area, visit www.oregonmetro.gov/garden.

 

Safety Saturday at Belmont Fire Station 10:00am-3:00pm

All ages can tour the firehouse, visit with firefighters, learn about safety, and sit in a real firetruck! Free.

900 SE 35th Ave Portland  503-823-3615

 

 

 

Sunday, June 14th

 

Lent's Bike Boulevard Ride  9:00am-noon (pre-ride activities begin at 9am, ride at 10am)

Join families and neighbors on a Bike Boulevard Ride to the opening day of the Lents International Farmers Market!

Activities are free and include: Bike Gallery bike repair station, BTA helmet fitting station (limited free helmets), Portland Bike Master Plan update, BTA Kids Safety Class & Ride for youth ages 8-12 years (bikes required). Bike parking will be provided at the Farmers Market. Raffle for fun prizes! Please contact Laura Bouma for more information: LAURA_KQB@YAHOO.COM

Kelly Elementary, 9030 SE Cooper, Portland


Pets On Parade 2 pm (Registration starts at 1pm)

"Don't miss this delightfully fun event! Everyone is welcome to dress up and show off their favorite pet (stuffed animals okay too). Winner categories include: "Dressed to Impress," "Entertainers" (tricks), "Me & My Shadow" (owner and pet look-alikes), and "It's a Small World" (small pets). Music entertainment presented by the Petropolitan Jazz Band."

Millennium Plaza Park 200 First Street, Lake Oswego



Portland Pride Parade  11am

The parade starts in the North Park Blocks and winds its way towards Waterfront Park. Bring your family

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 


 

 

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What's Happening in PDX 6/6-6/7

June 04, 2009


It seems like an Portland tradition for rain to fall on the Grand Floral Parade. Here's hoping we have lovely weather for all the Rose Festival activities or whatever you and your family have in-store for the weekend ahead. 


Saturday, June 6th

Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade 10:00am
Marching bands, flower-festooned floats, and lots of fun for everyone (not mention all the candy you can catch!)
See route here . Remember, no duct tape!


Paper Crowns  10:30am-11:30am 
Use reclaimed art supplies to craft an elaborate paper crown; staff from SCRAP will show you how! Seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. 
Holgate Library 7905 S.E. Holgate Blvd. Portland  503-988-5389


Hoyt Aboretum-Green Walk 10:00am-11:00am

Discover one of Portland's most valuable resources...its parks!  PP&R staff and volunteers lead guided tours of parks, gardens, and natural areas throughout town. PP&R staff and volunteers share Portland's unique history in its parks, plants, and animals! Meet at the visitor's center. No advance registration is necessary. 

Hoyt Aboretum 4000 SW Fairway Blvd, Portland   503-823-3601

 

The Secret Garden 2:30 and 7:00 pm

Classical Ballet Academy performs this sweet, classic story featuring young dance students. 

Tickets available at the door only. $15 adults and youth, $10 children 8 and younger.

St Mary’s Academy 1615 SW 5th Avenue, Portland  503-890-6101

 

 

Buckman Community Garden Work Party  9:00am-11:30am

Join Portland Parks and Recreation's Community Gardens staff, Hands on Portland Volunteers and Buckman gardeners for a garden clean-up work party. We will be weeding and mulching the perimeters of the garden and spreading woodchips on the paths.  Tools and gloves will be provided. Rain or shine so dress for the weather.

Buckman Community Garden, SE 18th and SE Oak  503-823-1612

 

Dragon Moon Festival noon-6pm

Puppet show, culinary stage, karaoke, break-dancing, arts & crafts, and food merchants. Free admission. 

Old Town Chinatown (NW 4th and Burnside)

 

 

Sunday, June 7th 

 

$2 Sunday at OMSI   9:30am-5:30pm

Admission to museum is only $2 all day long with free parking. The older kids can check out the new CSI exhibit while the smaller folks can enjoy the Science Playground and Labs. 

1945 SE Water Ave, Portland 503-797-4000

 

Living with Urban Wildlife  2:00pm-3:00pm

"Bonnie Shoffer, Wildlife Rehabilitator and naturalist will  teach how to coexist with those urban critters that live around our homes, tips for what to do when you find baby birds in the springtime plus much more." Free, no pre-registration required. 

Tryon Creek State Park Nature Center - 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd. Portland  (503) 636-9886 ext. 225

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



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Free Summer Fun!

June 01, 2009

There are seven days of kindergarten left and counting for my daughter! She's already staying up later (it's hard to fall asleep until the sun goes down and the house cools off) and I'm already wondering exactly how I am going to fill our summer days with the delicate formula of fun activities and lounging around. I am dreading hearing the cry of "I am so bored, there's nothing to do.........." so I am arming myself with a binder of free or cheap Portland summer activities to keep us just busy enough, but still allow for the flexibility of doing...nothing (hunting for flying beetles or sending dolls on extremely exotic vacations to the wading pool in the backyard sound good to me). Our family has down-sized to one car and we're going to be striving for a lot of activities close to home or that are Tri-Met accessible. In Portland, that is easy to do.

Here are five activities to keep your kiddos occupied during the next three months--have fun!

1) Free bowling! Did you know that your children can bowl two free games every day this summer? Two local bowling alleys are offering an amazing program to keep kids cool and active:AMF 20th Century Lanes on SE 92nd Ave (3550 SE 92nd Ave), and AMF Pro 300 Lanes, also in Southeast (3031 SE Powell Blvd) Head to Kids Bowl Free and sign the kids in your life up for a special pass that is good for two free games daily all summer long (excludes shoe rental). Parents/relatives can also purchase a special pass for $23.95, which is good for up to four adults to enjoy bowling all summer as well. (two games daily). I am looking forward to having a cool place to hang out and hide from the sun. (an quick picnic or popsicle break afterward at Powell Park might be nice)

2) The Summer Reading Program through Multnomah County Library is a great way to keep your children interested in books and helps them build/maintain their literacy skills. Beginning June 12, kids and teens can visit anyMultnomah County library to sign up for the Summer Reading game. Participation is free! The program runs June 12, 2009 through August 31, 2009 and your child can earn fun prizes (ice cream, swim passes, books, the prizes change throughout the summer). There is even a reading program for adults! Collect stamps as you read and enter to win a family trip to Disneyland!!

3) For older siblings, Barnes and Noble also offers a similar reading program for children in first grade and up. Read any eight books and choose a free book (from list of specified titles). Combine a trip to redeem your Summer Reading Journal with one of B & N's entertaining in-store events and make an afternoon of it! Check out a list of upcoming events here!

4) Portland Parks offers a huge variety of free activities for youth during the summertime. Wading pools and fountains open, many locations offer free arts/crafts as well as a free lunch, and there will be free movies/concerts in many local parks. Visit their website for details regarding swim lessons, classes, and camps at very affordable prices. We are so lucky to have these resources in our neighborhoods for safe and free/low-cost fun!

5) Free gardening classes are available for children (ages six through twelve) through Portland Parks this summer.

Woodlawn Community Garden

7200 NE 11, next to Woodlawn School

 

June 17-August 29
Tuesdays, 9:00-10:30 AM, ages 6-9
Thursdays, 10:00 AM-12 noon, ages 9-12
Fridays, 10:00 AM-1:00 PM, ages 6-12

 

For more info, call 503-823-1617 or email childgard@ci.portland.or.us





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What's happening in PDX 5/30-5/31

May 28, 2009

The school year is winding down and the temperature is heating up! It's going to be a warm weekend and there are plenty of activities going on. We're going to be sure to check out the kid's clothing swap at the Central Library for some summer outfits, (we've got a lot of gently used clothes to exchange!) hooray for the library for facilitating this cool event!

Saturday, May 30

Monkey Rolls and Rhyming Time  10:30am-11:30am
Join Heather Pearl as she brings animal stories to life, and involves the audience in acting out the stories. The program also includes classic nursery rhymes, and new ones of her own invention. Seating limited and available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Holgate Library 7905 S.E. Holgate Blvd. Portland 503-988-5389

PDX Kids Swap 1:00pm-3:00pm
Join us at the library for a free kid's clothing swap. Round up unwanted clean children's clothing, accessories, and other wearables your kids don't  use or love anymore and bring them to the swap! Bring clean clothes in reasonable condition, no rips, tears, visible stains, etc. There are no minimum requirements for how many items you have to bring or how many you can take, but please be courteous and generous.

Don't forget to bring a bag to carry your treasures home in. Items that do not get swapped will be donated to low income and high needs families in our Pdx community.


  • 1:00pm – 1:30pm Size 7 to 14+ (Kid Sizes)

  • 1:30pm – 2:15pm Size 2T to 6x (Child Sizes)

  • 2:15pm – 3:00pm Preemie to 24 months and maternity clothing (Baby and Mommy-to-be sizes)
Central Library  801 S.W. 10th Ave. Portland  503-988-5123

Connecting our children to the wild at Oxbow 10:00am-noon

From the Metro website: "If you are a parent, mentor or teacher who understands how important a vibrant connection to the natural world is for the healthy development of our youth, join Metro naturalist Dan Daly for this important and lively conversation. As school, work, sports, consumer culture and the disappearance of wild areas continue to draw our time and attention away from the natural world, now is a great time to learn and remember how we can bring nature alive in our families, neighborhoods and schools once again." Childcare is available during this program for children 5 and up, free of charge. Registration and payment of $10 per person required in advance. There is a $4 per vehicle entrance fee to the park. Call 503-797-1850 option 4 to register.
Oxbow Regional Park 3010 SE Oxbow Parkway, Gresham

Painted Turtle Walk 1:00pm-2:30pm
"Oregon’s turtles are rare, shy and hard to find, but Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area is home to one of the largest populations of Western painted turtles in the Northwest. See these beautiful reptiles with the help of Metro naturalist James Davis who will have small telescopes for a close look. Learn about the natural history of painted turtles and why they are so rare." Suitable for adults and children. Meet in the parking area on North Marine Drive. Free. Advance registration required; call 503-797-1850 option 4.
Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area 5300 N. Marine Drive, Portland

Portland Rose Festival Starlight Parade 8:30pm

Join in the fun as the opening of the Rose Festival is celebrated with glowing floats, marching bands, and Portland spirit!

The Starlight Parade begins at NW Burnside and 9th Ave. It then travels through downtown Portland and ends at Lincoln High School. Use public transportation for your convenience!



Sunday, May 31

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Showcase 10:00 am-2:00 pm

From OMSI's website: "Join OMSI on May 31 at 11:00 a.m. to view and test drive (or ride) fuel cell vehicles from leading automakers. Meet the members of the California Fuel Cell Partnership and talk to the engineers who work on the vehicles and provide hydrogen fuel. Fuel cell vehicles have the potential to provide the range, high efficiency, rapid refueling and performance consumers expect with zero tailpipe emissions and dramatically reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Come and see how close these vehicles are to commercialization, how to fill a fuel cell vehicle with hydrogen and learn how fuel cells fit into a clear air future." 

OMSI 1945 SE Water Ave. Portland 503-797-4000


Baby Loves Disco noon-3:00pm
Bubbles, scarves, and beats abound for kiddos and their parents. Healthy snacks and DJ fun with Greasy Kid Stuff's Belinda and Hova
Bossanova Ballroom 722 E Burnside, Portland $12 per walking human, in advance, $15 at the door, on the day of event (usually sells out, so get tickets online!)


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What's happening in PDX 5/16-5/17

May 14, 2009



It's really, really going to happen--THE SUN IS COMING OUT!! If you can bear to tear yourself away from your garden or from simply basking in the non-rainy weather, here are some fun family events in the Metro Portland area. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Saturday, May 16th, 2009

Children's Nature Fair 
    10am-3pm Bring your family to Leach for the day to explore the garden, meet local environmental groups, and celebrate spring with hands-on activities and crafts! Suggested donation: $2 per child. My daughter still has the wooden "cookie" she made at this fun event from a few years ago. The Leach Botanical Gardens should be deliciously shady in all the hot weather we'll be getting this weekend.
Leach Botanical Garden 6704 SE 122 Avenue, Portland 503-823-9503


Central Library eco-roof tour      10:30 am (tour lasts 20 minutes & begins at first floor Welcome Desk)
Constructed with living plants and simulating the processes that occur in nature, eco-roofs absorb rain water like a meadow in a natural setting. The Central Library eco-roof is not accessible to the public. Frequent backstage tours allow you to see the roof from windows overlooking the roof. Check out theeco-roof and then hit Toddler Storytime at 11:00 am in the children's reading room.

Registration required; register online, in the library or by calling 503-988-5234.

Downtown library: 801 S.W. 10th Ave.

 

Paper Crowns at Albina Library     2-4pm

Use reclaimed art supplies to craft an elaborate paper crown; staff from SCRAP will show you how! Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, except as noted.

Albina Library: 3605 N.E. 15th Ave.   503-988-5362

 

Meet THE Mouse from Laura Numeroff's If You Give a Mouse a Cookie for a fun-filled costumed character storytime.  11am 

Barnes & Noble (at Lloyd Center) 1317 Lloyd Center, Portland 503-249-0800

 

Family Outing -Apple Tree Park (along the Columbia River Waterfront)        9am-noon

"This is an easy 2.2 mile stretch with little or no elevation gain along stroller-friendly paved walkways with scenic river and estuary views and beach access. Empower your children to give back to the local community and help them understand the importance of a clean waterway. We’ll be helping Downtown Spring Clean Up and joining the wrap up party with food, prizes and entertainment in Esther Short Park afterwards. Participation is limited. Pre-registration required by May 7th. This outing is open to the public."

Meet at Who Song and Larrys Parking Lot-111 S.E. Columbia Way in Vancouver

For more information, contact Jessica Boldt at (360) 601-0526 or jessica.boldt@gmail.com

 

Sunday, May 17th, 2009

 

Sundays for Families-Asian Art Galleries 12:30-3:00 pm Every Sunday in May, visitors of all ages can use calligraphy to create artwork inspired by the Asian art galleries (from 1 to 3 p.m.), take family tours of the galleries (at 12:30 p.m.), and listen to stories (from 2:30 to 3 p.m.). Free for members or with Museum admission. Museum admission for children age 17 and younger is free. Adults $15.00

Portland Art Museum 1219 SW Park Avenue, Portland 503-226-2811

 

It's the closing weekend for Petit Rouge : A Cajun Red Riding Hood presented by the Oregon Children's Theatre.  2pm and 5pm

"Told in rhyming Creole dialect and rich in Cajun culture, a saucy swamp chorus sings backup in the Zydeco-driven score to this spicy new family musical from the writer/composer of Junie B. Jones and the Miss Nelson musicals." Appropriate for the whole family. $24 and $19 adults, $20 and $16 child, plus service charges.

Winningstad Theatre 1111 SW Broadway. 503-228-9571

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Growing Up PDX style

May 05, 2009

If you asked my daughter, she'd say the best thing about growing up in Portland is "going to see the Nutcracker at Christmas and walking to the library in the summer (with a stop for ice cream afterwards)."
We are so fortunate in Portland to have books, art, nature, cultural events, community awareness, food, and fun easily accessible with a quick stroll, bus ride, or trip in the car. Our urban setting is peppered with green nooks (downtown park blocks and neighborhood parks) and we can drive to the coast or the mountains in just an hour or two. You can travel from the sand to the snow to the high desert, or you can hang out in your own neighborhood or backyard. We are progressive and caring people, starting with our smallest citizens. Portland is an amazing place to create childhood memories and here are ten ideas to get you started: (bring along a camera to document your adventures!)


  •  Eat fresh veggies you grow in your backyard garden or buy them from one of the many farmers markets in town.

  •  Splash around in Jamison Square (Between NW 10th & 11th/NW Johnson & Kearney, then enjoying an icy treat at Mio Gelato  (25 NW 11th Ave) 

  •  Ride the streetcar from the downtown branch of the public library (801 S.W. 10th Avenue) to Powell's Bookstore,(1005 W Burnside) to spend the day immersed in books and words. 

  • Drive to Hood River for the day to pick your own apples and pears or find the perfect pumpkin along the Fruit Loop . On the way back, why not stop off at the Bonneville Dam Fish Hatchery and visit Herman the Sturgeon or feed the scores of rainbow trout (you can buy food for 25 cents). Picnic and roam the grounds, it's totally free!

  • Bundle up, fill a thermos with cocoa, and go for a walk down Peacock Lane in December. 

  • Arm yourself with a few dollars, a newspaper, and snacks and hit Saturday morning yard sales. Bring home some treasures and then plan to have a sale of your own to clear your house of clutter, and get to know your extended neighborhood. Nothing says summer in Portland like a homemade lemonade or smoothie stand. Better yet, organize a neighborhood block party and plan a bike parade down your street!

  • Take a class from Portland Parks (learn to swim in one of the indoor/outdoor pools), catch a puppet show at your neighborhood library branch or Read to the Dogs .



  • Take the bus to the Hollywood District and watch the Junior Parade during the Rose Festival.

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What's Happening in PDX : May 2-3

April 30, 2009


I don't know how it happened, but May has already snuck up on us! Portland is full of family friendly activities this weekend:

Friday, May 1st

It's the last weekend to head down to Woodburn for the Tulip Fest at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm
Check out the field report for field conditions (looks like a grand display for the final days of the Tulip Fest!) Ducky races, hay stack, horse swings, bumpy slide, pony rides, cow train and more. Visit with the rescue birds on the weekend. Tram rides are free. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. See website for daily specifics.
 
33814 S. Meridian Rd., Woodburn, OR 97071  503.634.2243. Weekdays are $5/vehicle and our weekends are $10/vehicle. Well behaved dogs allowed on leash are welcome.

Title Wave Used Bookstore Sale Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Bag of Books sale: Fill a bag with books for $10. (Bag provided.) Supplement your collection with a great array of quality used books! Used merchandise only. Limit 10 bags per customer. Books must fit in bag completely. Sale applies to books and audio-books only. 

216 N.E. Knott St. Portland    503.988.5021

Saturday, May 2nd

The Cinco de Mayo Fiesta returns to Portland’s Tom McCall Waterfront Park!! Find food, festivities, performances, and music all weekend. Children's area with face painting, Joe the Balloon Man, pinata breaking, and arts/crafts. See website for performance schedule.

Friday - Tuesday 11:00 am - 11:00 pm. Children 3 and under FREE!!! Ages 4 - 11 $ 2.00, Ages 12 and up $ 8.00.

The Hobbit

Join Bilbo Baggins and Gandalf for epic adventures throughout Middle Earth! Northwest Children's Theater brings their magical adaptation of the Hobbit to the small stage. Saturdays at 2 p.m. (Sundays at 2 & 6 p.m.) Best for ages 6 and up.

Individual Ticket Prices: Adult $20. Youth $16.


Sunday, May 3rd

DO JUMP! s teen performance troupe, The Zig Zags, presents its original show, Between Then and Now. Acrobatics, aerial dance, and physical theater to bring stories of change and letting go to life. Performances at 1:00 and 4:30 pm. Fro.m DO JUMP! "..a multi-dimensional exploration of growing up from 15 different perspectives. The show is appropriate for young and old, for expert circus artists as well as those who have never even seen a unitard."

Echo Theater-1515 SE 37th Ave, Portland.
Tickets are $5 for kids (12 & under) and $10 for adults. 503.231.1232 503.231.1232 503.231.1232 5
03.231.1232
503.231.1232




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Two Urban walks to take this Spring with children

April 28, 2009

Last week I wrote about two fun nature walks in Southeast Portland. This week I am going to focus on more urban walks with totally stroller friendly terrain that are easily accessible by public transportation. 
 
Beverly Cleary's neighborhood
I will be the first to admit that I have a special place in my heart for Beverly Cleary and her fictitious characters. (My daughter is named Ramona!) When we first moved to Portland, I was fascinated by the setting of theQuimby family's stories and learned that the Hollywood branch of the Multnomah Library is home to a huge wall map to help you plan out your walking tour . Venture out with your favorite child/children to see the houses where the young Beverly Cleary grew up, Klickitat Street, and the Beverly Cleary Sculpture Garden in Grant Park, where you can hug a bronze version of Ramona Quimby, Henry Huggins, and sweet Ribsy the dog. In good weather, there are fountains to splash in. To introduce your child to the world of Beverly Cleary, reserve the books/audio books from the library to share Ramona's adventures, then set out with a sketchbook and picnic lunch to make some of your own!

Hollywood Library is located at 4040 N.E. Tillamook Street and is serviced by both bus and max (with a short walk) Map of Cleary's world is located in the Children's area.

The sculpture garden is just south of the playground in Grant Park on N.E. 33rd Ave., between Knott Street and Broadway, adjacent to Grant High School. You can't see it from 33rd; you must actually come into the park to find the statues. The Portland Parks Department will turn on the water when weather and conditions permit.

Eastbank Esplanade Walk
The Vera Katz Eastbank Esplanade stretches from the Hawthorne Bridge, past the Morrison and Burnside Bridges, to the Steel Bridge with connections to eastside neighborhoods as well as across the river to Gov. Tom McCall Waterfront Park. It is 1.5 miles long, so it is child-friendly and bike/stroller/scooter/roller skate accessible. There are four pieces of art to view along the floating path, as well as a series of markers and educational panels. For a fun afternoon, start out with snacks at the Eastbank Farmers Market (starting up for the season beginning May 7th), take the #14 down Hawthorne, and hop on the esplanade with your bikes. Or, begin your day at OMSI and then head out for a stroll on the Esplanade afterwards.

Eastbank Esplanade--SE Water Ave & Hawthorne Blvd

Thursday Market at Eastbank is located in Southeast Portland on SE 20th at Salmon between SE Belmont & SE Hawthorne -- in the parking lot of Hinson Baptist Church. Operates May 7-September 24. 3:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.








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What's Happening in PDX 4/25-4/26

April 23, 2009



Saturday, April 25th

How about a nature walk at Tryon Creek ? This week's themed walk is "Springing Plants." Join a park ranger for a guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area.  Parents must accompany kids on all hikes. 10:00-11:30am. Free, all ages. 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd  503.636.4398 


The Central Library hosts "Looking for Papito"-- Family stories from Latin America. "Join award-winning solo performer, storyteller and author Antonio Sacre for a special family performance. Sacre’s repertoire, tailored to his audience, includes his own stories of growing up biculturally in a Cuban and Irish-American household. He inspires all ages to read, gather their own family stories, and become storytellers themselves." The program will be presented in both English and Spanish. Space at library programs is limited. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.  11:00-11:45 a.m. 801 S.W. 10th Ave. 503.988.5123

 

Sunday, April 26th

SCRAP is offering a Handmade Dolls workshop from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Use recycled materials to craft your own special doll! Ages: 5+, $18 fee.  Instructor: Christa Margo. Please pre-register for workshops by calling 503-294-0769 2915 NE MLK Jr. Blvd.

Check out the Oregon Potters Association 2009 Ceramic Showcase at the Oregon Convention Center. Children’s clay play area will have lots of exploratory fun. All ages. 10 am to 5 pm April 26. (10 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Saturday) Free. 777 NE MLK. 503.222.0533.

PARTY FOR THE PLANET! at the Oregon Zoo . Celebrate with your favorite party animals! Games, crafts, and fun for all! Free with gym admission. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.  On Sunday, the Zoo is also hosting the Run for the Cheetah, a fundraising event with a kid's walk/run, a 5k/8k walk/run, and food, fun, and festivities! (See website for registration fees/details) 4001 SW Canyon Road. $2 parking/vehicle. Ride Max and get $1 off admission. 503.226.1561

Baby Loves Disco returns to Portland at the Bossanova Ballroom! It's an Earth Day celebration, so celebrate and dance your heart out with your little ones. Noon-3pm. $12 per walking human, in advance (tickets online), $15 at the door, on the day of event. 722 East Burnside.

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Library Programs That Make Me Smile

November 24, 2008

I love the Multnomah County Library. When I was a little girl, we'd walk with our wagon the mile from our home on southeast Madison Street to the Belmont Library, where I'd pick treasures -- fairy tales, Betsy-Tacy-Tib books, the entire Great Brain series. As a high schooler, I spent hours upon hours combing through the periodical room on the 5th floor of the Central Library doing research. When I was married, it was the library to which I turned for my wedding reception.
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Things You Must Do in Portland Before Your Child Grows Up

November 04, 2008

I've lived in Portland most of my life, and though I've traveled and lived in many vibrant, wonderful cities I can't imagine raising my children anywhere else. I can't let my kids grow up until I:
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Top Five Things to Do on a Rainy Day

October 31, 2008

The rain in Portland falls ... mainly. And what a time to launch this blog, as we squelch firmly into the rainy season (it ends in June. Usually). When it rains, we tend to spend a lot of our time inside; but this is Portland and we can't spend all the time inside. Instead, we do this:
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More of Our Favorite Activities and Things to Do in portland

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Creatures & Critters:
Our Urban Jungle

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Do, Re, Mi! Places to Hear, Sing & Play a Tune

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Artistic Endeavors:
Our Favorite Art Venues

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Room to Run:
Run, Jump & Wiggle Outdoors

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Rainy & Quiet Days:
Cozy & Crazy Indoor Fun

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A Sense of History:
Our City's Stories

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Tot's Science Fair:
Science & Nature Sites

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Splash, Spray, Play! Local Spots to Get Wet

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The Most Fun in Life Is Free!

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The Best of... Our Top Can't-Live-Without Spots

The Voice of Being Savvy portland:
Oona Baker, Sarah Gilbert

Read more Being Savvy for: