PDX Parent March 2024

for the long days and short years

FREE

SAFE SPACES FOR KIDS AND TEENS, PG. 66

r e m

m Su s THE

p m a C E ISSU

6 NEW CAMPS TO TRY

3

ICONIC CAMPS BEHIND THE SCENES

9 WAYS TO SAVE ON CAMPS 89 OF OUR READERS’ FAVORITE CAMPS

PDXPARENT.COM

PORTLAND | SW WASHINGTON | MARCH 2024

contents NW FILM C AMP

20 SPECIAL SECTION

DEPARTMENTS

The PDX Parent Summer Camps Guide............................................... 13

Editor’s Note................................................................................................................ 4

Summer Camps Behind the Scenes................................................... 14

Play Room...................................................................................................................... 8

Find out how some of Portland’s most popular summer camps

Top five local storytimes; how to tell if your child is anemic; a

prepare for thousands of campers each year. (And you’ll be

new exercise class for second graders; and more.

amazed at how many pounds of apples campers can eat a week!)

Family Supper......................................................................................................... 70

By Denise Castañon and Tiffany Hill.

Dos Hermanos Bakery’s new location brings tasty loaves of bread, Mexican pastries and chopped sandwiches to the

9 Ways to Save on Summer Camps...................................................20

inner eastside.

Summer camp is essential for working parents, but those

By Denise Castañon.

weeks add up. Use these tips to help save some money.

By Sarah Vanbuskirk.

Field Trip...................................................................................................................... 72 Visit the Wildwood Recreation Site in Welches for two easy

New and New-to-you Summer Camps............................................. 22

hikes and the chance to view all sorts of wildlife.

From acrobatics to the arts, check out these new programs for

By Roma Sidelinger.

kids.

By Denise Castañon.

Time Out....................................................................................................................... 74 Go green at St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, hunt for Easter

PDX Parent Reader Favorites: Camps, Classes & Lessons......................................................................... 24 The readers have spoken and picked their favorite local camps and classes.

eggs, tiptoe through the tulips and more!

RESOURCES Summer Camps Guide............................................................................. 30-65 School Open Houses.................................................................................. 77-78

FEATURE *cover stories

This Is a Safe Space........................................................................................ 66 We highlight organizations aimed at building community for LGBTQ+, BIPOC and neurodivergent families.

By Robin Lanehurst.

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e d i t o r ’ s n ot e

Everything camps

for the long days and short years

My husband and I finally signed our 11-year-old daughter, Adela, up for overnight camp. Even though I know a lot about local summer camps from working at PDX Parent for the last nine years, our family doesn’t utilize too many camps (overnight or otherwise) because my husband is a teacher and has the summer off. And I work from home. But after two years of sifting through photos from Camp Namanu for a cover image, I saw just how much fun kids were having at sleepaway camp. So when Adela’s friend’s parent asked if we wanted to sign Adela up with her kid, that was the last little push my husband and I needed.

And I felt good about the decision. From writing Summer Camp Behind the Scenes on page 14 with Managing Editor Tiffany Hill, I know just how much local camps prepare for their summer charges. Staff members get trained in everything from how to sing camp songs to the importance of gender-affirming care. And the kids are fed well — Trackers Earth brings in about 200 hot dogs and veggies dogs a week for its campers. And OMSI overnight campers go through 80 to 120 pounds of apples each week!

And we’ve got even more camps coverage in our huge Summer Camps issue: new camps to try, ways to save money on summer camps, the new Camp Namanu exhibit at the Oregon Historical Society and PDX Parent Readers Favorites for Camps, Classes & Lessons. (Thank you to everyone who voted in our online poll! We racked up 33,240 votes this year!)

We also mention a new camp for kids who identify LGBTQ+ in our other feature story for families looking for places where LGBTQ+, BIPOC or neurodivergent kids and teens can hang out and feel welcome. In This Is a Safe Space starting on page 66, writer Robin Lanehurst highlights three organizations that provide just that, a safe space. And Lanehurst also provides a roundup of even more organizations and meet-ups to check out.

That’s a lot of info on summer camps! Here’s to finding just the right camp or safe space for your kids.

TR E VOR PAR K ER

PDX Parent P.O. Box 13660 Portland, OR 97213-0660 Phone: 503-460-2774 Publisher Jill Weisensee, 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 Anne King anne.king@pdxparent.com Westside Account Executive Lauren Wylie, 503-331-8184 lauren.wylie@pdxparent.com Eastside and Vancouver Account Executive Alice Schulz, 971-236-4037 alice.schulz@pdxparent.com Digital Ad Manager/Calendar Editor/ Distribution Coordinator Melissa Light melissa.light@pdxparent.com Accountant Kelli Bagby Truly Bookkeeping, Inc. Vice President of Operations Rose Caudillo operations@pdxparent.com For distribution issues, e-mail us at distribution@pdxparent.com For calendar submissions, e-mail us at calendar@pdxparent.com

2023

2023

2023

2023

A huge thanks to Camp Namanu for the photo of a camper reaching great heights! This iconic overnight camp is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Head to page 74 to learn more about the camp’s exhibit at the Oregon Historical Society reflecting on the

ON OUR COVER 4

March 2024

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milestone — and to page 14 to go behind the scenes at the camp.

And learn even more at campfirecolumbia.org/namanu.

PDX Parent is published monthly (except July)

by Northwest Parent, LLC., and is copyright 2021 Northwest Parent, LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. PDX Parent is distributed free of charge throughout the Portland, OR / Vancouver, WA metropolitan area.

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

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

Although every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of published material, Northwest Parent, LLC., and its agents and employees cannot be held responsible for the use or misuse of any information contained herein.

The contents of PDX Parent and its website are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional advice or treatment.

Cedarwood Waldorf School Summer Camps June 24 - August 16 Our camps include comics, sewing, circus arts, songwriting, and more.

Delight in summer at Cedarwood! Enjoy exploring new ideas, arts, adventures and more with caring teachers in our beautiful school, and city. Grades camps welcome rising 2nd graders through rising 8th graders. Our Early Childhood camps welcome students in Pre-K through rising 1st grade. See our website for further details and to register.

Register Now! www.cedarwoodschool.org 3030 SW 2nd Ave, Portland, OR 97202

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At any age and any stage, you can count on us. Make an appointment today at 503-261-4423.

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p l ay r o o m

Bookshelf: Read Local

Portland has no shortage of talented authors, including those who write — and even illustrate — stories just for kiddos. This month, Kim Tano and Madeline Shier, the children’s book buyers at Powell’s City of Books, share four fun reads penned by writers in Portland. Look for these titles at the Burnside, Hawthorne or Cedar Hills

PENGUIN R ANDOM HOUSE

SCHOL ASTIC

MACMILL AN PUBLISHER S

HAR PERCOLLINS PUBLISHER S

Powell’s locations, or order online at powells.com.

Laolao’s Dumplings by

A Horse Named Sky

Mr. Wolf’s Class Book

Black Girl You Are Atlas

Shinyeon Moon

illustrated by Kirbi Fagan

Steinke

illustrated by Ekua

Dane Liu, illustrated by

by Rosanne Parry,

One by Aaron Nels

by Renée Watson,

Portland-author Dane Liu

This Portland author and

Aaron Nels Steinke, a

Holmes

won the Eloise Jarvis McGraw

fellow bookseller, Rosanne

former Portland teacher,

This newest title from the

Award for Children’s Literature

Parry has had her best-

gained a major following

local author of the Portland-

Oregon Book Award last

selling middle-grade novels

among young readers

set Ryan Hart series explores

year for Friends Are Friends,

A Wolf Called Wander and A

for his Mr. Wolf’s Class

Watson’s identity as a

Forever. Her new picture

Whale of the Wild translated

series of graphic novels.

Jamaican American woman

book, illustrated by Shinyeon

into over 14 languages. Her

This five-book series

today largely through an

Moon, sees Millie go hunting

latest, A Horse Named Sky, is

takes place in a fourth-

autobiographical lens of

for dumpling ingredients

a standalone companion to

grade classroom and the

her Black girlhood here

in Chinatown on her own

these titles. (Keep an eye out

charming illustrations

in Portland. This moving

when her beloved Laolao

for her gorgeous nonfiction

of animal students and

narrative poetry collection is

falls ill. Can she and her

picture book, The Wolf Effect,

teachers are sure to

fully illustrated with gorgeous

parents successfully make

paired with award-winning

captivate readers ages

multimedia collage artwork

dumplings to cheer up Laolao?

illustrator Jennifer Thermes,

7+. (Be on the lookout for

by Holmes, and skews older.

A wonderful family story

coming out this May.) Great

a new kid’s graphic novel

Great for ages 13+. $18.99.

complete with dumpling recipe.

for ages 8+. $18.99.

from Aaron this summer!)

Great for ages 4+. $18.99.

$9.99.

Playlist: That ’70s Sound Local kindie band Ants Ants Ants has released a new EP called The

Campfire. The five-track album gives the back stories of the fox, raccoon and owl featured in the band’s animated videos by Chris Purdin. Johnny Clay, Dave Gulick and Nat Johnson, the songwriters, performers and producers of Ants Ants Ants, have also been a part of the local independent music scene for grown-ups for over a decade. Clay is the lead singer/songwriter of The Dimes, and Gulick and Johnson performed with the indie-pop band Derby. Their new EP for kids and families has a definite groovy ’70s vibe, but with a modern twist. The song Mr. Grey is a clear tribute to Electric Light Orchestra’s Mr. Blue Sky. Wise Old Owl screams peppy pop, but without a plastic feel. And the ANTS ANTS ANTS

track Campfire Smoke would feel at home on the soundtrack to a classic ’70s

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March 2024

Western flick. Ants Ants Ants’ The Campfire is an all-out fun EP that kids and parents will dig. Find out more at antsantsants.com. — Denise Castañon

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Ask Dr. Baynham Q: My 9-year-old is a picky eater and I think he might be anemic. What should I do?

A: Picky eating is a common issue among kids of all ages.

benefit. Cooking in a cast-iron skillet also helps add iron to foods.

Studies suggest that around 10% to 30% of parents describe

If your picky eater likes pasta, look for pastas made from lentil or

their older children as “picky,” but it seems like I hear this

chickpeas as they have additional iron and protein. You can also

concern more often than that in the office. Picky is also relative,

puree spinach and/or kale and add it into a tomato sauce without a

but the really picky eaters are at risk for nutritional deficiencies.

significant change in color or taste.

If your child is not getting adequate amounts of iron it can lead to iron-deficiency anemia with common symptoms being fatigue and looking pale.

The first step is taking a detailed dietary history. Good

If the dietary assessment is concerning for lack of iron, then your child’s pediatrician can check your child’s hemoglobin (usually with a fingerstick blood test that provides results during the office visit) and determine whether your child is truly anemic. If

dietary sources of iron include meat, lentils, beans, dark

so, they may need iron supplementation. Your doctor will give a

leafy greens such as spinach and kale, peas, eggs, nuts and

recommendation on dose and duration of iron therapy. But please

nut butters, dried fruits, dark chocolate (yay!), and fortified

don’t read this and decide your child is anemic, so you need to

breakfast cereals. Vitamin C enhances the absorption of

start iron. You can overdose on iron, so it is very important to see

iron, so combining iron-rich foods with foods high in vitamin C

your doctor first. However, do read this and decide you need to

(citrus fruits, red and green peppers and tomatoes) has added

start eating more dark chocolate.

Pediatrician, International GAIL PAR K

Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Fellow in the American Academy of Pediatrics and mom of two, Allison Baynham, M.D., knows what it takes to raise healthy, resilient children. Come bond, share your struggles and team with her for great care at Metropolitan Pediatrics in Tigard.

In the Know: Splash Zone

PORTL AND PAR KS & R ECR E ATION

PE is about to get a whole lot better for Portland elementary students. In late January, Portland Public Schools (PPS) partnered with Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) to launch Schools to Pools. The program offers free swimming lessons to PPS second graders. Initially, over 300 students from six schools will participate, but the goal is to expand School to Pools to more than 3,000 kids across the school district as a permanent elective.

“Learning to swim is vital for young people, and we’re proud to make beginner lessons available through this innovative partnership,” said PP&R Director Adena Long in a press release.

Long championed a similar program with New York City’s parks and rec.

So far, three community centers — in Southwest, Northeast and Southeast — are participating in the twice-weekly, 30-minute lessons taught by PP&R swim instructors. — Tiffany Hill

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p l ay r o o m

TOP

5 STORYTIMES

1

Portland is a great city for readers, including for our littlest bookworms. Here are our five favorite places to take your kiddo for an engaging storytime.

Local libraries! Whether you’re in

Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas or Fort Vancouver, kid-approved storytimes abound at our

2

libraries. Always free, there are storytimes for every kiddo, including baby-specific, sensory-friendly, readings in other languages and more. Visit library systems online for their calendars.

There

are two different storytimes at Hammer + Jacks. Join Olive & Dingo and the Literacy Lady in the

3

shop’s Rec Room for fun, engaging storytimes, clowning and bubbles on Thursdays and Fridays respectively. Hammerandjacks.com.

Head to the covered patio on

Tuesdays at 11 am for storytime at Green Bean Books. The Alberta

1

4

bookstore also has additional storytimes like Spanish-language readings and themed events. Greenbeanbookspdx.com.

Portland’s beloved

bookstore, Powell’s Books has a Saturday morning storytime in its

5

delightful kids books section, often by authors themselves. Powells. com.

Take your child to read aloud to Louie every other Thursday

MULTNOMAH COUNT Y LIBR ARY

afternoon at Maggie Mae’s Bookshop in Gresham. While not technically a storytime, kiddos will love practicing their reading skills to this adorable and patient therapy dog. Maggiemaesbooks.com. — T.H.

GR EEN BE AN BOOKS

2

MAGGIE MAE’S BOOKSHOP

3

5

DARIUS KUZMICK AS

DENISE C ASTAÑON

4

A ASHNA NANAL

Kid to Know: The App Builder Navigating a school’s Advanced Placement (AP) offerings can be daunting for high school students, so Westview High School senior, Aashna Nanal, designed an app called AP Course Picker that helps students plan their AP schedules.

And her app won first place in the 2023 Congressional App Challenge for Oregon’s First Congressional District.

Aashna’s app (which is not yet live) gathers information about the user’s interests, strengths, and goals through a series of questions. The AP Course Picker then generates a plan with recommended AP classes for each school year. The app is intended for incoming freshmen who are interested in planning their AP course load over their time in high school.

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Aasha knows a little something about AP courses — she’s taken 12 during her high school career. Up next, she’ll work with her school counselor on making the AP Course Picker available for students during the next forecasting cycle. And she plans to study computer science after graduation.

“Congratulations to Aashna for winning the 2023 Congressional App Challenge,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “Aashna’s app is an innovative resource for students who attend high schools that offer AP classes. I wish Aashna well in her final year of high school, and I’m excited to see what she accomplishes next.” — D.C.

MAT T BAK ER

Dad to Know:

THE PERFORMER

Local comedian, odd-skills specialist and dad, Matt Baker holds three Guinness World Records and has appeared on The Late Late Show with James Corden, America’s Got Talent and Last Comic Standing. He also performs up to 220 shows a year all over the world. He does amazing stunts like catching a bowling ball with his face and juggling while taking off his shirt. But it all started with hacky sack. He got good enough at hacky sack (aka footbag) as a teenager to join a promotional team for Snickers that toured Ireland and the Czech Republic. When he got back from the tour, he went to Seattle to try his hand at street performing at Pike Place Market. He noticed his audience responded to the comedy and silliness of what he was doing.

So he honed in on that part of his act and soon was receiving offers to perform at bar mitzvahs, festivals and parties.

With his 11-month-old daughter, Elvis, and his busy schedule, he does miss the time away from her. “Mostly the difficulty is being an active parent while I am away,” says Baker. “We Facetime a lot and I do my best to support my wife who has to deal with working and taking care of a kid while I am gone.”

But a benefit to his unique career is that since his wife works remotely, she and Elvis sometimes get to travel with Baker. “Our daughter Elvis has been to 11 states, two countries and a sovereign nation,” says Baker.

Find out where Baker is performing @comedystuntshow on Instagram.

Book a birthday party with us!

— D.C.

ricenorthwestmuseum.org 503-647-2418 pdxparent.com

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503-590-5518 18335 NW West Union Rd. Suite 5-E, Portland, OR 97229 Schooldirector@artworldschool.com

www.artworldschool.com

Established in 1997, Art World School is a skill based Fine Art school that offers the following programs: • Different individual classes for all ages/levels Mondays - Saturdays • After School Program • Camps on Saturdays, No School Days, Spring Camp, Summer Camp, Winter Camp • Before Care Program starting 2024 -2025 School Year • One-on-one and private classes • Fine Art Drawing/Painting, Clay/Pottery, Arts & Crafts, Calligraphy, Digital Art • In person or Online Classes

• Birthday Parties • Trial class offered for new students

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Art World School is now located in West Union, with a bigger school location opening on 3/1/24!

Everyone is welcome to attend the open house on 3/17/24 from 2pm - 5pm. Come enjoy free art classes, win art supplies, and see all the additional new amenities the new location has to offer!

PDX Parent's

2024

Summer Camps Guide

Sponsored by

pdxparent.com | March 2024 pdxparent.com | March 2024

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Find out how some of Portland’s most popular summer camps prepare for your kids.

BY DENISE CASTAÑON AND TIFFANY HILL

OMSI

OMSI

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OMSI summer camps have a long history in Oregon; it started with a two-week, overnight fossil expedition at Camp Hancock in Fossil in the early 1950s. And its day camps and classes started in the early ’70s with a space-themed focus. Today’s OMSI science-focused camps at multiple locations, including overnight camps at Camp Hancock and Camp Gray, let kids learn about desert survival, the plants and wildlife of the Oregon coast, caring for zoo animals, LEGO robotics, cool chemistry and much more.

But all that fun and education for campers means a lot of preparation for the OMSI team. “Planning for summer starts soon after summer ends,” says Steve Tritz, senior director of statewide and community engagement at OMSI. “We start working on the next summer’s camps in September.”

Tritz notes that staff training occurs over multiple days for both the overnight programs and the day camps. “The bulk of staff training is focused on safety and behavior management, or more accurately how to help campers have an amazing and fun experience with OMSI,” he says. “The behavior management piece is based in the Positive Behavior Management Practices that many schools employ. This is the idea of using support for students who are struggling rather than a punitive structure.”

OMSI is also focused on continuing to make sure their offerings are accessible and inclusive — the organization worked with a consulting company to get ideas on how it can improve. And it invested in facility renovations to create more accessible restrooms at both the museum in Portland and at Camp Hancock.

Once camp is in session, the program managers at the overnight sites love to watch the excitement and smiles that campers have when they are picked up by their parents.

And they have a hard time picking just one favorite camp memory! Janet Ohara, the Camp Hancock manager, says her favorite memory happened last summer when campers created a camp cheer that they performed for the staff. It brought the staff to tears — in a great way!

“I feel very lucky to be able to work with so many wonderful staff who go above and beyond to make the summer experience for our campers a memorable one,” says Tritz.

“I am also grateful for all the families that give us the opportunity to spend the summer with their campers.” — Denise Castañon

OMSI By the Numbers Approximately 3,200 kids go to OMSI day camps each summer.

Overnight camps started at Camp Hancock in the 1950s — roughly 50,000 campers have taken part since then.

OMSI employs 65 staff members to run its day camps.

Each OMSI overnight camp site goes through 30-40 loaves of bread and 80-120 pounds of apples each week. pdxparent.com

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Trackers Earth offers campers an old-school camp experience. Think roasting weenies over a campfire, tracking animals in the forest, carving with knives and more. “We want families to come to Trackers because they are excited about the challenge of being outdoors and interacting with nature,” says co-founder Tony Deis. “Because they want to be part of a community that cares for many generations and the more-than-human world. Because they are ready for a real adventure.”

TR ACK ERS E ARTH

Deis and his wife Molly founded Trackers Earth in 2004 in Portland to foster deep connections to nature and teach hands-on, age-appropriate wilderness skills and forest crafts. Fast forward 20 years and Trackers has locations in Portland, Bend, Eugene, Seattle, Denver and the Bay area and has served nearly 262,000 campers. Whether it’s summertime day camp or overnight — plus afterschool, school break and homeschool programs — kids are truly able to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Where else can campers fish for their lunch, track deer, identify bird calls and camp under the stars at the foothills of Mt. Hood?

In fact, Deis says this summer the organization is focusing on its intensive wilderness and forest-craft skills camps that are the heart of a Trackers camp experience.

Staff training for these experiences happens year-round, says Deis, such as getting feedback from staff, campers and parents, plus routine visits and maintenance of all Trackers’ off-site wilderness locations and animal husbandry. A Trackers employee is more than your typical summer camp counselor. “We seek guides who have a combination of teaching skills plus forest and folkcraft skills, like archery, wilderness survival, fishing, woodworking, blacksmithing and more,” he says. The approximately 220 Portland guides then go through an intense week-long staff training program for the summer season.

Deis, who was a camp educator himself for 14 years, understands the challenges that come with being a seasonal employee. “We are committed to providing higher compensation than what is usual in the general camp field. Additionally, we work hard to offer year-round employment opportunities beyond seasonal.”

The hands-on wilderness experience doesn’t stop when everyone is done hiking or whittling.

Trackers staff, along with the help from campers, also find, prepare and eat most of their meals outside. Deis says they utilize Dutch ovens and campfires (when seasonally appropriate). “Our focus is often on wild foraged and caught foods, such as dandelion donuts, blackberry cobbler, clay-baked trout or crawdad gumbo,” he says. “It doesn’t get more local than that.” — Tiffany Hill 16

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Trackers Earth

Packing Pro Tip:

TR ACK ER S E ARTH

TR ACK ER S E ARTH

“We would love for parents to pack for camp with their kids,” says Deis. “When parents do all the packing, kids don’t know what’s in their pack or in their lunch.” Deis says he uses this strategy with his own three kids, Robin, Annie and Maxine. They lay out everything they need in what Deis calls a gear line and organize their bags starting with items they’ll use the least and ending with those they’ll use the most. “This process helps them to know every item in their bag and where it’s located, which helps them be independent during the adventure.”

One of Co-founder Tony Deis’ Favorite

Camp Memories

Deis says he’s had many epic moments as a former guide, seasonal educator, and Trackers co-founder.

But one that comes to mind is when a group of kids visited their farm just as the Deis’ goat went into labor. “Throughout the day, the kids helped keep mama comfortable, toweled off the newborn babies, and encouraged them to begin nursing,” he says. “The looks on the kids’ faces were a mix of astonishment, excitement, joy, alarm, and every other emotion you can imagine. … These very real connections with the natural world are my favorite Trackers moments — and what makes us different.”

Trackers Earth By the Numbers Trackers has served over 261,889 kids in camp locations in Portland, Seattle, Bend, Eugene, Denver and the Bay area.

About 75% of Trackers participants have been Portland campers.

In 2023 alone, kids and staffers participated in Trackers for over 923,729 hours, or 105 years of outdoor adventures.

Trackers campers have hiked over 188,540 miles together, effectively circling the planet 7 and 1/2 times!

Trackers brings in 200 hotdogs and veggie dogs each week for overnight campers for its popular BBQ Night. pdxparent.com

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C AMP NAMANU

The iconic Camp Namanu in Sandy has been fostering indelible childhood memories for 100 years. A year-round staff of eight and seasonal staff of 80 keep this historic, overnight summer camp going strong. “Planning starts during the summer before,” says Janette Kunkel, the executive director of Camp Fire Camp Namanu. “We keep notes of things to try, change and do differently. We track trends through the summer and adjust accordingly.”

Two weeks before camp starts, the staff is at Namanu for training. “They are learning everything from emergency preparedness; hospitality; how to clean camp; team building; equity, diversity and inclusion; genderaffirming care; ages and stages; behavior management; child abuse recognition and prevention; how to be a mandatory reporter — to the songs we sing and how to have fun at camp,” says Kunkel.

“Namanu, being Oregon’s oldest-running, consecutive-in-one place camp, has a lot of traditions and history, but truly it’s an inclusive community, welcoming all and making sure every camper feels thoughtabout and prepared-for before they ever arrive,” says Kunkel. This includes accessibility upgrades started in 2019 such as eight brand-new, ADA-accessible cabins, a wheelchair golf cart to get campers from place to place, and moving the health center to a zero-entry space among other improvements.

That the camp is accessible for all is important because, as Kunkel notes, the independence forged at sleepaway camp can lead to key milestones for kids. “Camp can be so empowering for youth and oftentimes, a place they try on different identities that help them become the best version of themselves. We focus on keeping them safe while facilitating an environment where they can do this,” says Kunkel. — D.C.

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Camp Namanu Pro Tips:

Prepare Your Child for Overnight Camp “I love when the camper that had a hard time saying goodbye to their parents in the parking lot and insisted that they didn’t want to come to camp is laughing and playing and making new friends by the second day. And on the last day they don’t want to leave,” says Janette Kunkel, the executive director of Camp Fire Camp Namanu. Here are a few of her tips to help your kiddo have a positive experience at overnight camp.

C AMP NAMANU

• • •

•

Start talking to your child about camp and what they can expect.

Tell them you are proud of them for going to an overnight camp.

Avoid saying things like “I am going to miss you so much!” or “If you aren’t happy, I’ll come get you!”

Do send your camper empowering emails or funny jokes while they are at camp.

Camp Namanu By the Numbers About 1,400-1,800 campers attend per summer.

That’s approximately 163,350 campers over 100 years.

On average, each week campers go through: 88 pounds of hamburger patties, 60 pounds of bananas, 80 pounds of apples, 40 pounds of oranges, 8 cases of sandwich bread and 100 pounds of salad greens.

C AMP NAMANU

By January 1, Camp Namanu is about 80% booked for the summer and about 98% booked by March.

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9 Ways to Save on

Summer Camp

BY SARAH VANBUSKIRK

Summer camp is a win-win for many families. Kids get to swap quizzes,

Check on a Group Discount

essays, sitting at desks, and homework for time pursuing passions like sports, art, filmmaking, martial arts or robotics. Parents get much needed child care so they can work. (Or maybe even relax!)

Portland offers tons of unique, fun, and exciting camps to choose from, too. But the cost of summer camps can quickly skyrocket, especially if you have more than one child and are looking to fill up a summer.

“The cost per week has become crazy, especially if you have multiple children that are young,” says Portland mother of three Maureen Rachford.

Luckily, there are some tried-and-true tricks you can use to save money and still send your child to multiple weeks of camp. Here are nine wallet-friendly tips to get the most of this quintessential summertime experience.

If your child is signing up with multiple friends, you could also check if the camp will extend a group discount. If you have enough kids, the camp may give you a price break, particularly if you’re flexible about which week you choose.

NW FILM C AMP

Seek Out a Sliding Scale

Some camps offer a sliding scale, allowing families to pay what they can within a certain range.

Write Now! nature and creative writing camps are priced using a sliding scale.

Ask for Discounts

Some camps have scholarship funds available or will give you a discount just for requesting one.

You might get a discount for paying in cash, too. Grace Art Camp offers scholarships to approximately 10% of its campers.

Choose Wisely The price (and hours)

PHOTO CR EDIT

of a week of camp varies dramatically. Most run between $250 to $500 per week, but you’ll find some from as low as a little over $100 up to $1,000 or more. So pick camps with lower overall cost. City of Portland residents can sign up for Portland Parks & Recreation camps at rock-bottom prices when using the Access Pass, which cuts costs by 25%, 50%, 75%, or 90%. Camp Rosenbaum

Book Early One of the best ways to save is to sign up your child as early as possible. Many camps have early-registration prices to encourage sign-ups. Alternatively, some camps may offer last-minute discounts to fill empty spots. NW Film Camp (pictured above) offers a $100 early-bird discount.

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Choose Flexible Camps

Find camps that offer flexibility once you lock in. “Some camps let you purchase a week credit early to take advantage of early registration discounts and then you can pick a week later,” says Rachford.

One example is Trackers Earth. And Steve & Kate’s Camp offers day passes for campers to use any time camp is offered (and allows kiddos to choose what activities they do!).

Use Sibling Discounts If you’ve got more than one child, signing them up for the same camp can save you money. Many camps offer a sibling discount. If you don’t see the option when registering, you can always call to ask for one. Friendly House Summer Break Camps offer $50 off for siblings.

PORTL AND PAR KS & R ECR E ATION

is free for children from low-income families. Pro tip: If your child’s school has a SUN program, ask the director if they will hold summer camps. SUN camps are often incredibly affordable.

Make Your Own Another option is to pool resources with several families to create a camp of your own. Hire a babysitter (such as a high school or college student) to run a camp with few of your child’s friends. If you paid an hourly rate of say $25 to $30 per hour for four to six children, you would end up paying under $200 per week for a 6-hour day. If you have a flexible schedule, consider switching off hosting a “free” camp with other parents.

Consider Convenience In addition to price, consider which camp works best with your family’s schedule. Location, daily hours, and anything you’ll need to buy for the camp will impact the overall cost, too. For example, it might be worth paying a bit more for a camp that’s around the corner rather than one that takes an hour to get to or requires you to buy equipment or supplies you don’t have.

COME DANCE WITH US THIS SUMMER!

Sarah Vanbuskirk is a writer and editor based in Portland. She is the mother of five kids and is writing a book about dating at 50.

2024 Summer Camps for ages 3-13

Learn more and register at school.obt.org pdxparent.com

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New and new-to-you

camps

If you are looking beyond the well-known camps for something new for your kids, you’re in the right spot. This list of recently opened and underthe-radar camps might have just what your kids are looking for!

Art World School

This creative arts program has just moved to a new and bigger location. The added space means they can now offer camps for kids ages 10 to 14. NW Portland/West Union. Artworldschool.com/ summer-camp.

The Creative Realm

This camp from a former life coach helps middle-school girls learn more about themselves, and develop courage, compassion and friendships. Limited to 10 campers. SW Portland.

Thecreativerealm.co/summer-camp.

Hive Athletic Arts This brand-new aerial and acrobatic arts studio opens this month and it will be offering camps for kids this summer. Clackamas.

Hiveathleticarts.com/ camps.

KinderCare This well-known child care center is offering new nature camps for kids ages 5 to 12 at three new locations. University of Portland, Warner Pacific University and Riverdale High School.

Kindercare.com.

Tempos Contemporary Circus This is an established circus arts company, but it is opening up a new youth program with acrobatics, tumbling, aerial dance and juggling camps for kids ages 4 to 17. SE Portland. Temposcircus.com/summercamps.

Tree Folk

Kids ages 5 to 11 can spend all day outside exploring, discovering and creating at this outdoor camp. Oregon City. Treefolkoc.com.

— D.C.

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ARRIVING MARCH 2

Tickets at omsi.edu pdxparent.com

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&

Camps, Classes Lessons

The results are in! We’re rolling out the first batch of the 2024 PDX Parent Reader

Favorites winners. This month, we’re announcing the winners in our Camps, Classes &

Lessons categories. Thanks to readers just like you, who took the time to vote for their favorite local businesses, organizations and places, for helping us identify these beloved family winners.

ARTS & CRAFTS CLASSES/CAMPS

Winner Children’s Healing Art Project (CHAP) 8065 SE Grand Ave., Suite 160, chappdx.org Expect puppet-making, fiber arts, sculptures and all the glitter and glue you can imagine at CHAP’s summer art workshops! Best of all, the camps help support CHAP’s mission to bring the healing power of art to medically fragile children and their families for free.

Top 5 Crafty Mindz Gilchrist Art One River School Owl & Bee Clay Company Vibe of Portland

HORSE/ANIMAL CLASSES/CAMPS

Winner Oregon Humane Society 1067 NE Columbia Blvd., oregonhumane.org Animal-loving kids will deepen their love, appreciation and knowledge of animals at Oregon Humane Society’s summer camps and after-school clubs. In addition to arts and crafts, and educational games, they’ll get to give kitties, pups and bunnies lots of pets!

Top 5 French Hill Farm River Ranch Horse Camp Royal Ridges Triskelee Farm Wilsonville Equestrian Center

CHILDR EN ’S HE ALING ART PROJEC T

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OR EGON HUMANE SOCIE T Y

SAR AH NIENABER

MUSIC CLASSES/ CAMPS Winner School of Rock Multiple locations, schoolofrock.com Whether your kid wants to strut across the stage as a frontman or jam on the drums, School of Rock can help make those rock star dreams come true. Don’t sleep on the songwriting, and recording and production workshops either!

Locations in SE Portland, Lake Oswego and Vancouver, Wash.

Top 5 Backbeat Music Academy Ethos Music Center Music Together of Portland Oregon Repertory Singers Youth Music Project

SPRING & WINTER CAMPS

Winner Northwest Children’s Theater & School

AFTER - SCHOOL CLASSES/ CAMPS

Winner Adventures in Spanish

CLIMBING/OBSTACLE CLASSES/CAMPS

Winner Circuit Bouldering Gym

1000 SW Broadway Ave., T-100, nwcts.org

(formerly PELP)

When school is out, but you still need

Multiple locations, adventuresinspanish.org

to work, Northwest Children’s Theater &

Kids can hone their Spiderman-like

What better way for kiddos to continue

climbing skills during age-specific

School’s spring and winter break camps are a great option. The theater arts camps are offered at three locations and go from ages 4 to 14.

learning than with fun, engaging afterschool camps with Adventures in Spanish.

Children not only have language lessons, but also cultural activities — and even cooking

Multiple locations, thecircuitgym.com

bouldering classes. This repeat PDX Parent Reader Favorites winner offers after-school clubs, summer and winter camps, and of course, birthday parties for

lessons.

your budding boulderer.

Baxter Sports

Top 5

Top 5

Echo Theater Company

Crafty Mindz

The Movement Park

Oregon Children’s Theatre

Aim High Martial Arts

Movement Portland

Tualatin Hills Parks & Recreation

Engineering for Kids

Portland Rock Gym

Vibe of Portland

Kumon

Revolution Parkour

Saturday Academy

Skyhook Ninja Fitness

Top 5

SEE THE FULL LIST OF WINNERS AT PDXPARENT.COM/READER-FAVORITES-WINNERS.

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Camps, Classes Lessons FOREIGN LANGUAGE CLASSES/CAMPS

Winner Adventures in Spanish

(formerly PELP)

Multiple locations, adventuresinspanish.org Want to raise a bilingual kiddo? The instructors at Adventures in Spanish can help your children achieve that. The programs help students learn Spanish and engage with cultural traditions. Even better, there are classes for a variety of ages — beginning with preschool — plus, Spanishlanguage camps, private lessons and even parent-child classes.

Top 5 Camp Abenteuer International Leadership Academy International School of Portland Kids Like Languages L’Etoile French Immersion School

GENERAL DAY CAMPS

Winner Trackers Earth

Multiple locations, trackersearth.com Trackers Earth is one of kids’ favorite summertime day camps, and beloved by parents and caregivers. The organization

DAVID K INDER

boasts camp locations throughout the Portland area and offers campers a variety of interactive activities — outdoors and in!

Top 5 Mittleman Jewish Community Center North Clackamas Parks & Recreation Department Oregon Episcopal School Sellwood Community House YMCA of Columbia-Willamette

PERFORMING ARTS CLASSES/CAMPS

Winner Northwest Children’s Theater & School 1000 SW Broadway Ave., T-100, nwcts.org

Your kid can be on Broadway with Northwest Children’s Theater & School (NWCT). We’re talking

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Top 5 Broadway Rose Theatre Company Echo Theater Company Imagine Theater

about the Broadway here in downtown Portland, of course. But the singing, dancing and acting

Lovegood Performing Arts Company

skills kids learn at NWCT just might lead them to that other Broadway one day.

Oregon Children’s Theatre

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OMSI

OVERNIGHT CAMPS

Winner OMSI Oregon Museum of Science & Industry Omsi.edu OMSI has been hosting overnight camps since the 1950s. At Camp Hancock in Fossil, campers can see million-year-old fossils, explore the desert landscape, and stargaze at the Milky Way. And at the Coastal Discovery Center at Camp Gray in Newport (pictured above), campers are immersed in our coast’s ecosystem.

SIGN UP FOR 2024

Top 5 Big Lake Youth Camp Camp Howard

REGISTRATION OPENS APRIL 2

Camp Namanu Camp Two Roads Trackers Earth

FOR AGES 3 & UP pdxparent.com

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Camps, Classes Lessons INCLUSIVE CAMPS

Winner Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp Mhkc.org The folks at Mt. Hood Kiwanis believe summer camp is for every child, regardless of their abilities. For more than 85 years, campers spend a week “joyfully focusing on their abilities,” during activities such as swimming, ziplining, horseback riding and more.

STEM CLASSES/CAMPS

Winner OMSI - Oregon Museum

of Science & Industry 1945 SE Water Ave., omsi.edu

When the word science is in the name of the organization, you know they are going to have great STEM classes and camps.

And that’s exactly what kids will get at OMSI. The museum offers unique activities such as programming a LEGO robot, film animation, drone flying and caring for exotic animals.

Top 5 B’nai B’rith Camp Camp Yakety Yak Spectra Gymnastics Tucker Arts Camp Upward Bound Camp

SPORTS CLASSES/ CAMPS

Winner Soccer Shots

Multiple locations, pdx.soccershots.com Score big with your kids by enrolling them in one of the Soccer Shots programs. The age-appropriate programs — from ages 2 to 8 — teaches your little soccer player the ins and outs of the game, as well as confidence and character building.

Top 5

Top 5

Baxter Sports

Code Ninjas Coding With Kids Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum Experiment PDX Saturday Academy

Pedalheads Rose City Futsal Skyhawks Sports Academy Stronger Skatepark

TR ACK ERS E ARTH

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CAMPS /CLASSES

Winner Trackers Earth

Multiple locations, trackersearth.com Kiddos that prefer to spend all their time outdoors will love the summer-camp activities at Trackers Earth. This repeat PDX Parent Readers Favorites winner has campers hiking, identifying bird calls and animal tracks, learning how to carve with knives, shooting arrows, and much more.

Top 5 Alpengirl Camp Bird Alliance of Oregon (formerly Portland Audubon) Camp Two Roads Friends of Tryon Creek Girl Scouts of Oregon/SW Washington

DANCE CLASSES/CAMPS

Winner Oregon Ballet Theatre 720 S Bancroft St., school.obt.org

Kids as young as 3 years old can learn ballet with a class at this PDX Parent Reader Favorite.

Students learn classical techniques from renowned faculty and even have the opportunity to perform

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Top 5 BodyVox Dance The Everybody Dance Project NW Dance Project

alongside professional dancers on stage, including

The Portland Ballet

during the annual Nutcracker performances.

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OR EGON BALLE T THE ATR E

SWIM INSTRUCTION

Winner North Clackamas

Parks & Recreation District

North Clackamas Aquatic Park, 7300 SE Harmony Rd., Milwaukie, ncprd.com/aquatic-park/swimlessons The North Clackamas Parks & Recreation District’s North Clackamas Aquatic Park houses the largest swim-lesson program at one facility in the state of Oregon. From babies to kids to teens pursuing a lifeguard certificate, there’s something for everyone!

Top 5 Children of the Sea Swim School DolFUN SWIM Academy Emler Swim School Farber Swim School SWIMBABES

GYMNASTICS CLASSES/ CAMPS

Winner The Children’s Gym 1625 NE Sandy Blvd., childrensgym. com This Northeast Portland gym specializes in gymnastics for kids of all ages, from the tiniest tumblers to The Children’s Gym Squad, an invitational gymnastics team for older, experienced gymnasts. And if you want to see if gymnastics is right for your kiddo, or just need to let them get their energy out, the gym holds open hours three times a week.

Top 5 Echo Theater Company The Little Gym Lake Oswego Metro Gymnastics Oregon Gymnastics Academy Westside Dance & Gymnastics Academy

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Old McDonald’s Farm, Inc.

Camp SCRAP

The Jr. Vet. Baby Goat Kid Program Learn to feed and maintain the health of a baby goat kid and adults too. Learn the diagnostic plan Veterinarians use. Want to be a Vet.?

This is your class! Our OMF, Inc. Bus meets in Portland at 15th/Irving NE.

Camp SCRAP is an arts day camp focused on creative reuse, upcycling and crafting resourcefully. This camp is for kids who LOVE art-making, inventing, and bringing their ideas to life!

Cost: $339 + our OMF, Inc. Bus Registration Deadline: No Registration Deadline But The Classes Fill!

Dates: Jr. Vet. Baby Goat Kid Program-Part “A,” June 24-27 Jr. Vet. Baby Goat Kid Program-Part “B,” July 8-11 Ages: 4-10 grades 503.695-3316 omf@OldMcDonaldsFarm.org OldMcDonaldsFarm.org

ARTS & CRAFTS CAMPS Art World School

ACADEMICS/ TUTORING CAMPS Park Center Summer Camp

PJA Summer Discovery Program

The Park Center Summer Camp is a four week, half day, campus based program providing structured literacy interventions and fun summer day camp experiences for students with language-based learning differences.

Open to everyone! Explore your creativity, discover your talents, nurture your curiosity and broaden your horizons at Portland Jewish Academy’s Summer Discovery Program. PJA offers enriching classes from experienced, passionate, professional teachers who incorporate STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) to enhance learning in a fun and nurturing way.

Cost: $2000 Registration Deadline: Limited availability, open until filled.

Dates: July 8-Aug 2 Ages: 6-12 Camp location: Park Academy 1915 South Shore Blvd.

Lake Oswego, OR 97034 503-594-8800 ldavis@parkacademy.org parkacademy.org/summer-camp

Cost: $230-$250 Registration Deadline: Rolling Dates: July 8-Aug 2 Ages: 4-15 Camp location: 6651 SW Capitol Hwy. Portland, OR 97219 503-244-0126 cllanez@pjaproud.org pjaproud.org/summer

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Art World School offers full day or half day camp options with before care available, 6 different art classes, yoga, and outside time at Somerset West Playground every day. Different classes with different curriculums for three age groups: 4-6, 7-9, 10-14.

Flexible scheduling with early bird discount and discount packages that can be used for any day of the camp.

Cost: $75 + Registration Deadline: None Dates: June 17-Aug 23 Ages: 4-14 Camp location: 18335 NW West Union Rd., Ste. 5-E Portland, OR 97229 503-590-5518 schooldirector@artworldschool.com artworldschool.com

Cost: $75 per day (multi day discounts may apply) Registration Deadline: 7 days before start of camp Dates: 5 different sessions from June 24- Aug 14 Ages: 7-12 Camp location: SCRAP Creative Reuse Education Studio 1736 SW Alder St. Portland, OR 97205 503-294-0769 portlandeducation@ scrapcreativereuse.org portland.scrapcreativereuse.org/ Camp-SCRAP

Cedarwood Summer Camps

Enjoy exploring new ideas, arts, adventures and more. Grades camps welcome rising 2nd graders through rising 8th graders. Our Early Childhood camps welcome students in Pre-K through rising 1st grade.

Ages: 4-13 Camp location: Cedarwood Waldorf School 2020 SW 2nd Ave. Portland, OR 97201 503-245-1477 cedarwoodschool.org/break-summercamps

Crafty Mindz Summer Arts and Activity Camps Our summer camp is a great place for kids to hang out and learn during the summer while still having tons of fun.

Cost: $350 Dates: June 17-Aug 23 Ages: 6-11 Camp location: 1150 SW 170 Ave, Suite 100, Beaverton, OR 97006 503-516-8525 create@craftymindz.com craftymindz.com/summer-camp

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Fine Art Starts!

Join us in our magicallytreed location. Fun, top-notch full & half day camps! Drawing, painting, printmaking, digital art, pottery & clay! Small groups, quality materials, skilled staff. Step-by-step lessons, then self-directed exploration.

Artists learn skills to balance with their own ideas to make unique art (not crafts). New projects & art show each week! Payment plans & financial aid available.

Cost: $172-$380 Payments & Financial Aid Available Registration Deadline: Open Dates: July 7-Aug 9 Ages: K-8 Camp location: 8470 SW Oleson Rd. Portland, OR 97223 503-740-8220 fineartstarts@gmail.com artcampspdx.com

Gilchrist Art Camp Our goal is to give kids the best week(s) of their summer! Our camps are thoughtfully designed to create masterpieces through the use of different mediums, utilizing professional-grade paints and hands-on products. Each week is filled with multiple projects while still enjoying and appreciating the process. GAC is a happy (and messy!) place for creativity to exist.

Cost: $450 Registration Deadline: None Dates: June 10-Aug 30 Ages: 5-12 Camp location: 9735 SW Sunshine Ct., Ste. 700 Beaverton Oregon 97005 503-750-6581 lisa@gilchristartcamp.com gilchristartcamp.com

The Hangout PDX Visual Art Camp for K-5 campers! Join us at The Hangout PDX this summer for art making, friendship building, and fun in the sun! Monday-Friday, 9 am-3 pm.

Cost: $250 Dates: June 17-Aug 23 Ages: 5 - 11 Camp location: The Hangout PDX 4707 SE Belmont St. Portland, OR 97214 503-957-4915 hangout@thehangoutpdx.com thehangoutpdx.com/summercamp-2024

Kids Fine Art Summer Clay Camp Focusing on Large Scale Ceramic Sculpture, Kid Clay Camps are all about being creative in clay.

Each student will have almost unlimited clay to create sculptures of their own concept paired with daily exercises, all with full instruction from a Master Ceramicist. All material, firing and finishes included in price of class. Mon-Fri 9am-1pm.

Cost: $350 Registration Deadline: 24 hours before start date Dates: Varied Ages: 7-10 and 10-13 Camp location: The Wright Clay Studio 3522 NE Liberty St. Portland, OR 97211 406-544-7472 paige@thewrightclay.com thewrightclay.com/camps

One River School Summer Camps 2024 Discover 90+ art camps at One River School Lake Oswego. Join fellow young artists in a unique creative adventure!

Learn drawing, painting, sculpture, cartooning, digital arts, and animation from our talented educators.

Cost: $365-$385 Dates: June 17-Aug 30 Ages: Grades K-12 Camp location: One River School of Art + Design, 15010 Bangy Rd. Lake Oswego, OR 97035 503-606-8861 lakeoswego@oneriverschool.com lakeoswego.oneriverschool.com/camps

Tree Folk At Tree Folk summer camps, kids spend all day outside connecting with nature, learning about the ecosystem, and tapping into their innate creativity and curiosity through art. Camps this summer will build shelters, make potions and elixirs from foraged herbs, dye clothing with natural pigments, and so much more!

Dates: June 24-Aug 23 Ages: 5-11 Camp location: Oregon City treefolkoc@gmail.com treefolkoc.com

Tucker Arts Camp Over eight weeks, children in preschool through fifth grade will explore music, visual arts, theater, and more! Our beautiful campus in SE Portland offers a large organic garden, tree house studio, goats, and gym.

There is plenty of space for inspiration from the natural world and fun in the summer sun. Air-conditioned studios; 8:30-2:30 plus aftercare until 5:30 PM available Cost: $379.99/week if you register before Apr 15. $414.99/week after Apr 15.

Registration Deadline: April 15 for early bird rate!

Dates: June 24-Aug 16 Ages: 3-12 Camp location: 2860 SE Holgate Blvd.

Portland, OR 97202 503-235-6551 info@tuckermaxon.org tuckermaxon.org/tuckerartscamp

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Vibe Summer Camps Discover Vibe of Portland’s inspiring summer art camps!

Led by highly skilled teaching artists, our camps prioritize the creative process. Through hands-on exploration, children delve into various art forms, fostering self-expression and growth. We offer scholarships for families from Title 1 schools and BIPOC backgrounds, ensuring accessibility to all. Join us for a transformative summer of artistic discovery!

Cost: $339-347 Registration Deadline: none Dates: June 17-Aug 30 Ages: 5 and up Camp location: 7414 SE 52nd Ave., Portland, OR 97206 6520 N Salem Ave., Portland, OR 97203 4555 N Williams Ave., Portland, OR 97217 503-320-5600 music@vibepdx.org vibepdx.org

Waldorf Summer Camp PWS Camp is full of outdoor play, art, music, friendship, and fun! We offer 2 camps: one for PreK-K, and one for grades 1-6. Each week has a unique theme.

Cost: $450/week Dates: July 8-Aug 9. Weekly Sessions Ages: Preschool - Grade 6 Camp location: Portland Waldorf School 2300 SE Harrison St. Milwaukie, OR 97222 503-654-2200 inquiry@portlandwaldorf.org portlandwaldorf.org/camps

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CLIMBING/OBSTACLE CAMPS Camp Rockstar Sign your kids up to climb in a fun, social environment led by our instructors, where they will problemsolve and build confidence on and off the wall.

Cost: $400 Registration Deadline: Open Multiple Dates Dates: June-Sep Ages: 6-12 Camp location: Multiple Locations.

Visit thecircuitgym.com to learn more!

503-246-5111 info@thecircuitgym.com thecircuitgym.com

The Movement Park Spring & Summer Camps Explore parkour at The Movement Park! Conquer obstacles, unleash creativity, and have the best day ever with unique weekly themes. No experience required. Join us now!

Cost: $300/week Registration Deadline: 3 days before the camp starts Dates: March 25 & June 17-Aug 23 Ages: Grades K-6 Camp location: 2240 NE Griffin Oaks St., Ste. 1000 Hillsboro, OR 97124

Parkour Visions Parkour camps are high-energy, interactive experiences. By overcoming challenges, students build confidence, focus, and creativity. Every camp includes falling safety, skill practice, games, and obstacle courses. Open to all levels.

Cost: $300/week Dates: All Summer Ages: 5-17 Camp location: Locations include Grant Park, Irving Park, and Mt. Tabor Park 206-923-8864 portland@parkourvisions.org parkourvisions.org

DANCE CAMPS Aerial Dance Camp Our aerial dance camps are designed for a variety of levels and ages on a variety of aerial apparatus.

Cost: $175-$350 Registration Deadline: June 1 Dates: June & July Ages: 5-18 Camp Location: Aerial Dance PDX Studio located in Beaumont Village on NE Fremont 503-935-7752 info@aerialdancepdx.com aerialdancepdx.com

503-844-8801 hello@themovementpark.com themovementpark.com

Parkour, Nerf, Jedi, Kids We offer full-day (8am-3pm) summer camps. Kids camp for ages 5-7 and all other camps: Parkour, Nerf, and Jedi will be ages 8-18. No screens and all fun.

Cost: $425 Registration Deadline: June 15 Dates: Late June-Early Sep Ages: 5-18 Camp location: 5651 SW Arctic Dr., Beaverton, OR 97005 503-746-4785 beavertonfrontdesk@ revolutionparkour.com rvpkbeaverton.com/summercamps

A-WOL Aerial Dance Summer Camps Join A-WOL for a variety of weeklong summer camps and single day workshops this summer, at The A-WOL Warehouse. Summer classes are for youth students and focus on building aerial skills or work on performance, choreography, dance, and more.

Summer offerings will be available to new and experienced aerialists ages 4 and up.

Ages: 4-18 Camp location: 513 NE Schuyler St., Portland OR 97212 503-351-5182 fly@awoldance.org awoldance.org

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Echo Theater Summer Camp

Oregon Ballet Theatre School

Popular physical and fun week-long and mini-camps for dance, trapeze, and performance skills for all youth ages.

Also available: Parkour camps!

Come dance with Oregon Ballet Theatre School this summer!

Through our pre-ballet and youth ballet programs, students experience the joys of dance under the guidance of OBT School’s experienced faculty.

Cost: $275+ Registration Deadline: Current Dates: Week long camps all summer Ages: 5-19 Camp location: East and west-side Portland 971-267-3246 hello@echotheaterpdx.org EchoTheaterPDX.org

Everybody Dance Project Dance Camps The Everybody Dance Projects summer camps offer a fun themes each week along with learning the fundamentals of ballet, tumbling, and jazz. Campers perform at the end of the week!

Cost: $310 Registration Deadline: Aug 1 Dates: June 17-Aug 16 Ages: 3-10 Camp location: 3132 SE 67th Ave., Portland, OR 97206 503-560-5860 info@everybodydanceproject.com everybodydanceproject.com/ schoolbreak-camps

The Hive Athletic Arts Summer fun at The Hive! Camp is a great time to try aerial and acrobatics for the first time or take your current training to a new level.

Students will work on a variety of aerial apparatus (silks, trapeze, sling and lyra) and train on the ground while working strength, flexibility and acro acro/ tumbling skills.

Cost: $300-$400 Registration Deadline: Varies Dates: June, July, Aug Ages: 5-17 Camp location: 15506 SE Piazza Ave., Clackamas, OR 97015 971-236-8236 hello@hiveathleticarts.com hiveathleticarts.com/camps

Ages: 7-13 Camp location: 720 S Bancroft St., Portland OR 97239 503-227-6890 schoolofobt@obt.org school.obt.org/summer-programs

Summer Dance Camps Our experienced and qualified instructors have designed engaging age-appropriate summer camps for aspiring dancers. Watch your child’s creativity and artistry flourish through ballet, tap, jazz, and more!

Cost: $140-$190 Registration Deadline: 7/1 for Prince & Princess Camp; 8/5 for Dance Camp Dates: Prince & Princess Camp 7/15-7/18; Dance Camp - 8/19-8/23 Ages: Prince & Princess Camp - 3-6 years; Dance Camp - 7-12 years Camp location: June Taylor’s School of Dance, 19318 SW Mohave Ct. Tualatin, OR 97062 503-885-0545 junetaylor@earthlink.net junetaylorschoolofdance.com/ summer-program

Ekone

Summer Camps Horse Camps Art Camp Music Camp Family Camp New this year— Harvest Cooking Camp

visit www.ekone.org or call 509.773.4536

R ALL

RE FO THEAT

PE YOU TH RF OR A M R IN TS G

SEE WEBSITE FOR DATES, COSTS, LOCATIONS, & MORE! imaginetheatre.org/summer SERVING SE Portland

Milwaukie

Happy Valley Clackamas

Gladstone OC

& Surrounding Areas pdxparent.com

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Ages: 5 and up Camp location: 24040 SW 82nd Ave., Tualatin OR 97062

Tempos Summer Circus Camps!

Come join the circus! Tempos summer camps are where youth can get comfortable upside down, sideways, and backwards. We offer a variety of camps to explore the circus arts including aerial dance, partner acrobatics, handstands, tumbling, juggling, hula-hooping and more! We offer both week-long and 2 day weekend camps for ages 5-18.

Cost: $150-$400 Registration Deadline: varies per camp Dates: June, July, August Ages: 5-18 Camp location: Tempos Circus 423 SE Ivon St. Portland, OR 97202 971-319-0540 tempos.info@gmail.com temposcircus.com/summercamps

503-888-6318 marenw1@hotmail.com wecriding.com

River Ranch Summer Equestrian Day Camp River Ranch is offering weekly Day Horse Camps and Half Day Pony Camps from June through August.

Children will learn to care for, lead, groom and tack their Horse or Pony.

Riding instruction in flatwork and equitation and safety techniques for all children is taught. Horses and equipment provided. Small groups so all Horse Campers have a horse to love!

Cost: $195-$425 Registration Deadline: July Dates: June 17-Aug 23 Ages: 5-14 Camp location: 16000 NE Eilers Rd., Aurora, OR 97002

EQUESTRIAN/ANIMAL/ FARM CAMPS 503-678-5478 Ekone Ranch Summer Camp Ekone is a magical place where kids are empowered and every day has a sense of belonging and adventure!

Sessions offered include horses, music, teen leadership, art, cooking, and more.

Cost: $900-$1800 Registration Deadline: Open till filled Dates: June 22-Aug 12 Ages: 8-18 Camp location: Goldendale, WA 509-773-4536 summercamp@ekone.org ekone.org

Horse Camp Wilsonville Equestrian Center Horse camp teaches the rider all about horses. Campers will have a lesson everyday and learn everything about horses. We love our horses and so will you.

Cost: $475 Registration Deadline: open Dates: all summer 36

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annetteesser2021@gmail.com RiverRanchHorses.com

Sauvie Island Stables Kids Camp Sauvie Island Stables is offering Horse Camp! Join us for a funfilled days with horses, ponies, and goats on our beautiful farm in Portland, OR. Learn how to handle and care for horses, ride, and have the opportunity to bond with fellow horse lovers. Our trainers provide a safe environment for campers to improve their horsemanship skills while having fun.

Cost: $460 Dates: Spring Break March 25-29, June 24-28, July 8-12, Aug 5-9 Ages: 7-11 Camp location: 19430 NW Reeder Rd., Sauvie Island Portland, OR 97231 503-764-5951 info@sauvieislandstable.com sauvieislandstable.com/kidscamp

Old McDonald’s Farm, Inc. The Summer Program Learn to ride a horse or pony, plant in the garden, care for and enjoy 31 Farm Program animals, etc. Keep up on reading, writing and other academic lessons too. Our OMF, Inc. Bus meets in Portland at 15th/Irving NE. Cost: $319 + our OMF, Inc. Bus Registration Deadline: No Registration Deadline But The Classes Fill!

Dates: The Summer Program Session 1, “Chicken Chat” Week, July 15-18 The Summer Program Session 2, “Pyrenees Dogger” Week, July 22-25 The Summer Program Session 3, “Soay Sheep” Week, July 29-Aug 1 The Summer Program Session 4, “Donkey Bray” Week, Aug 5-8 The Summer Program Session 5, “Centavo De Cobre” Mini. Horse Week, Aug 12-15 503.695-3316 omf@OldMcDonaldsFarm.org OldMcDonaldsFarm.org

Triskelee Farm Farm Camp: Become a junior farmer!

Learn about farm jobs like milking goats, animal care, gardening, and caring for the land and environment.

Camp Half-Blood: Calling all Demigods, Percy Jackson fans, and Greek mythology enthusiasts!

Triskelee Farm will be hosting a Demigod training camp just like Camp Half-blood!

Cost: $300 Dates: July 8-11, July 15-18, July 29-Aug 1, Aug 5-Aug 8 All are 8:30 am-12:00 pm.

Ages: 5-12 Camp location: 29700 SW Mountain Rd., West Linn, OR 503-741-9930 triskeleefarm@gmail.com triskeleefarm.com/camps

FILM/ANIMATION CAMPS NW Film Camp Film/Animation Camps Week-long day camps designed to spark creativity and collaboration in a fun and supportive environment.

Creator Camps (ages 8-11) Dive into the creative world of digital storytelling. Make friends and produce projects to create a positive message.

Filmmaker Camps (ages 12-17) A deeper exploration of the craft, guiding participants through the entire filmmaking process from script development to final editing.

Cost: $499-$699 Dates: June 24-28. July 15-19, 22-26.

July 29-Aug 2. August 5-9, 12-16, 1923, 26-30.

Ages: 8-17 Camp location: NW Film Camp 4033 SW Canyon Rd., Portland, OR 97221 at the World Forestry Center in Washington Park info@nwfilmcamp.com nwfilmcamp.com/portland

FOREIGN LANGUAGE CAMPS Atlas Explorers Summer Camp At Atlas Immersion’s Summer camp, we’ll be exploring the World through language immersion, hands-on activities, crafts, field trips, as well as visits from athletes, performers, artists and more!

Cost: $380/week Registration Deadline: 5/1/2024 Dates: June 17-Aug 21 Ages: K-5th grade Camp location: 3643-B SW Vermont St., Portland, OR 97219 9268 NE Windsor St., Hillsboro, OR 97006 971-239-9838 Admin@AtlasImmersionAcademy.com gabrielpark.atlasimmersionacademy. com/summer-camp-2024#rowjN6Os5BVnEv

JUNE 24-AUGUST 9, 2024 Pre-K through Grade 5

6300 SW Nicol Road • Portland oes.edu/summer

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International School of Portland Language Immersion Summer Camp Enjoy a world of fun at our awardwinning summer camp! Chinese, Spanish, or Japanese language and culture will come to life through hands-on projects, stories, songs, games and outdoor fun with our teachers from around the world.

Whether learning a new language or already fluent, campers will love outdoor play, field trips, cultural performances, ice cream parties, and more!

Cost: $590-$715 per TWO-week session Registration Deadline: Varies Dates: June 24-Aug 2 Ages: 3-11 Camp location: South Waterfront/ Downtown Portland, near OHSU tram.

503-226-2496 summer@intlschool.org intlschool.org/summer

Spanish Around the World Our unique camps are designed to immerse children in the richness of Spanish cultures! Our program combines interactive language lessons, cultural activities, and cooking experiences, promising an unforgettable adventure!

Cost: Early bird: $415 - Regular: $450 Registration Deadline: Early Bird: April 1- Regular: June 20 Ages: 5-9 503-284-0610 admin@adventuresinspanish.org adventuresinspanish.org/camps

GENERAL DAY CAMPS Adventure Camp Join us for a full summer of themed Kindergarten - 5th Grade camps including field trips, art & cooking projects, water play, outdoor games on our large campus, and more!

Cost: $375 (through 05/31) Registration Deadline: Registration 38

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closes when full OR the Wednesday prior to each camp Dates: June 17-Aug 23 Ages: Incoming Kindergarten-5th Grade Camp location: 14605 SW Weir Rd., Beaverton, OR 97007 503-524-7000 swkids@swbible.org adventurecampkids.org

All Girls Summer Camps at St. Mary’s Academy St. Mary’s Academy camps are filled with adventures, hands-on activities, and a variety of fun games to pique every girl’s interests. Current SMA students serve as camp counselors, facilitating valuable learning experiences and mentoring campers. Attending summer camp is the perfect way to familiarize yourself with the unique educational culture and community of St. Mary’s.

Cost: $300-$375 Ages: Entering 3rd-8th graders Camp location: St. Mary’s Academy 1615 SW 5th Ave., Portland, OR 97201 503-228-8306 summerprogram@smapdx.org stmaryspdx.org/beyond-theclassroom/summerprogram

Aim High Summer Camps!

Aim High Martial Arts & Events offer 11 weeks of fun-filled, themed Summer Camps jam packed with special visits/activities, take home items, martial arts, bounce-houseFridays & more!

Cost: $390 Registration Deadline: 1 week prior to the camps start date Dates: June 10-Aug 23 Ages: 4 & up Camp location: 16205 NW Bethany Ct. #100., Beaverton, OR 97006 503-298-3277 events@aimhighevents.org aimhighma.org/camps

Camps at YMCA of Columbia Willamette Dream. Discover.

Create. YMCA Summer Camps: Safe, Fun, and Engaging! Day, overnight, and enrichment programs in Portland and Vancouver metro areas. Member enrollment starts Feb 5, and nonmembers Feb 12.

Cost: Varies Ages: 4-18 Camp location: Portland and Vancouver metro areas marketing@ymcacw.org ymcacw.io/camps24

Catlin Gabel Summer Camps Catlin Gabel’s 67-acre campus offers weekly camps and extended care from July 8-Aug. 9 for specific age ranges. Choose from sports, arts, LEGOs, photography, writing, day camps, and more.

Cost: $445 (most) full day camps; $260 half day Registration Deadline: Weekly camps varies Dates: July 8-Aug 9 Ages: 4-18 Camp location: Catlin Gabel School 8825 SW Barnes Rd., Portland, OR 97225 503-297-1894 summercamps@catlin.edu catlin.edu/summer

Childpeace Montessori Summer Camps Childpeace offers summer camps for our families AND the public for the first time ever! Join us for outdoor adventures, beautiful crafts, sports, animation projects, fun with food, and more.

Cost: $400-$740 Registration Deadline: April 5 Dates: June 24-Aug 9 Ages: 1st-6th graders (varies by camp) Camp location: Childpeace Montessori School, 1516 NW Thurman St., Portland, Oregon 97209 503-222-1197 communications@childpeace.org Childpeace.org

Childswork Learning Center Join us for a special summer camp just for preschoolers and kindergarteners, where seasoned teachers lead children in outside play, nature exploration, water play, crafting, cooking & more. Hosted at both locations with a variety of options to meet your needs. Meals included.

Cost: $250-$550 Dates: June 16-Aug 17 Ages: 3-6 years old Camp location: Cherry Blossom Campus, 10525 SE Cherry Blossom Dr., Portland, OR 97216 Tabor Campus 6161 SE Stark St., Portland, OR 97215 503-234-3611 info@childswork.org childswork.org

Club K’s Never Stop Exploring Summer Camp Embark on a thrilling journey at Club K Summer Camp where the theme is “Choose Your Own Path!”

Travel through time, become a hero, delve into STEM challenges, explore fantasy realms, master the culinary arts, showcase your talents in an entertainment extravaganza, join the Olympics, and uncover the secrets of magic. Discover new interests, and make this summer unforgettable!

Dates: June 24-Aug 12 Ages: 5-12 Camp location: Tigard, Tualatin and Wilsonville 503-643-9059 info@clubkafterschool.com clubkafterschool.com/summer-camp

Tryon forest Adventures An active full-day nature camp experience for youth ages 6 -14. @ Tryon Creek State Natural Area in SW Portland LEARN MORE

Connecting kids to nature since 1970.

find details at tryonfriends.org pdxparent.com

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ILA FUN SUMMER The Creative Realm Summer Camp for Middle School Girls For girls entering grades 6th8th grade. Activities include games, crafts, discussion, guided visualization - designed to help girls learn more about themselves and develop courage and compassion while creating friendships and fun!

Limited to 10 campers. 10am-2pm.

SW Portland. Instructor: Kim Davies, Former teacher turned life coach and youth guide.

Cost: $265 Registration Deadline: Open till filled Dates: July 8-12 or Aug 5-9 Ages: Grades 6-8 Camp location: 7425 SW 52nd Ave., Portland, OR 97219 503-381-5292 kim@thecreativerealm.co thecreativerealm.co/summer-camp

French International Summer Camps French International summer camps offer a variety of options in French or English for students aged 3-8th grade. Camps are week-long from June 24 to August 1, with themes that include arts and crafts, sports, engineering, science, nature exploration, and more. Costs vary depending on the camp. There are activities and options for students of all ages and interests.

Cost: Varies Dates: June 24-Aug 1 Ages: 3-8th Grade Camp location: French International School of Oregon, 8500 NW Johnson St., Portland, OR 97229 503-292-7776 info@frenchintl.org frenchintl.org/summercamp

Hours 9:00am 3:00pm - 7:30am care (free) Lunches and Snack( by Chef) included $400/week full day Weekly pick up by 4:30 + $50 Weekly pick up by 6:00 + $90 Cost: $400 Registration Deadline: June 14 Dates: June 24-Aug 23 Ages: 3-12 Camp location: ILA Campus 14788 Boones Ferry Rd. Lake Oswego, 97035 503-662-8452 patricia@ilapdx.org ilapdx.org/summercamp2023

International School of Portland Language Immersion Summer Camp Enjoy a world of fun at our awardwinning summer camp! Chinese, Spanish, or Japanese language and culture will come to life through hands-on projects, stories, songs, games and outdoor fun with our teachers from around the world.

Whether learning a new language or already fluent, campers will love outdoor play, field trips, cultural performances, ice cream parties, and more!

Cost: $590-$715 per TWO-week session Registration Deadline: Varies Dates: June 24-Aug 2 Ages: 3-11 Camp location: South Waterfront/ Downtown Portland, near OHSU tram.

K-Lean’s Tennis Summer Camp Tennis/Golf development programs. We focus on providing a FUN, fast paced and a game based approach. Our approach adds excitement and enjoyment for the kids as they learn through a progression of drills and games specific for each of the levels of play. We teach with passion, loads of energy and space for kids to realize and attain their potential.

Cost: $328 (4 HR), $548 (All Day) Registration Deadline: Early Bird 10% discount through March 2024 Dates: June 17-Aug 15 Ages: 6-14 Camp location: 14015 NE Glisan St., Portland, OR 97089

MJCC Summer Day Camp MJCC Summer Day Camp is imbued with a sense of joy, community, spirit and fun. Health + safety is our top priority. Enjoy quality, fun, age-appropriate programs including sports, cooking, Jewish culture, drama, nature, and more! Campers create crafts, play games, and do activities that revolve around each week’s theme. Flexible options 8:00 am–5:30 pm. Open to everyone.

Cost: $225-$455/week Registration Deadline: Rolling Dates: June 24-Aug 26 Ages: 3-15 Camp location: 6651 SW Capitol Hwy., Portland, OR 97219 503-244-0111 daycamp@oregonjcc.org oregonjcc.org/daycamp

503-701-4408 kaleen@kleanstennis.com KLeans.com

Linnton Community Center Weekly themes, daily field trips, swimming, roller skating, arts & crafts, games & sports, card & board games, Lego time, breakfast, and two snacks served daily.

Cost: $250 per week with a $50 registration fee Dates: June 17-Aug 23 Ages: K-8th grade Camp location: Linnton Community Center 10614 NW St Helens Rd. Portland, OR 97231 503-286-4990 activitycoordinator@linnton.com Linntoncommunitycenter.org

NCPRD Summer Camps NCPRD offers a wide variety of affordable day camps designed to keep kids active, connected and having fun all summer long.

Choose from sports, science, nature, dance and horseback riding camps.

Summer Camp registration opens April 2 at noon for NCPRD residents and on Tuesday, April 9 at noon for non-residents.

Ages: 3-18 Camp location: Multiple locations in Milwaukie and Clackamas 503-794-3877 recreation@ncprd.com ncprd.com/summer-camps

503-226-2496 summer@intlschool.org intlschool.org/summer

FIND EVEN MORE SUMMER CAMPS AT PDXPARENT.COM/PORTLAND-SUMMER-CAMPS-GUIDE

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Summer camps and after school classes for kids in K-9th grade

We teach Portland’s youth the power in themselves through play, practice, and performance.

5 day Summer Camp (ages 7-14)

2½ day Kindercamp (ages 5 & 6)

Located near I-5 at the Wilsonville-Charbonneau Exit

www.frenchhillfarm.com

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Old McDonald’s Farm, Inc. The Summer Program Learn to ride a horse or pony, plant in the garden, care for and enjoy 31 Farm Program animals, etc. Keep up on reading, writing and other academic lessons too. Our OMF, Inc. Bus meets in Portland at 15th/Irving NE. Cost: $319 + our OMF, Inc. Bus Registration Deadline: No Registration Deadline But The Classes Fill!

Dates: The Summer Program Session 1, “Chicken Chat” Week, July 15-18 The Summer Program Session 2, “Pyrenees Dogger” Week, July 22-25 The Summer Program Session 3, “Soay Sheep” Week, July 29-Aug 1 The Summer Program Session 4, “Donkey Bray” Week, Aug 5-8 The Summer Program Session 5, “Centavo De Cobre” Mini. Horse Week, Aug 12-15 Ages: 2nd-6th grades 503.695-3316 omf@OldMcDonaldsFarm.org OldMcDonaldsFarm.org

Pedalheads Pedalheads offers bike, swim and trail programs to families across North America.

We focus on developing healthy, confident and independent kids through innovative teaching methods, small classes and highly trained instructors. Our learnto-ride bike program is renowned for taking kids ages 2-12 from training wheels to two wheels to riding safely on roads and trails. Visit pedalheads. com to register today!

Cost: $245-$605 Registration Deadline: Aug 25 Dates: March 25-29 (Spring Break).

June 17-Aug 30 (Summer).

Ages: 2-12 Camp location: Multiple sites across Beaverton, Happy Valley, Lake Oswego and Portland 888-886-6464 info@pedalheads.com pedalheads.com

Sellwood Community House Oregon Museum of Science and Industry Let your student explore, learn, and create this summer with OMSI camps and classes!

Whether it’s at our action-packed museum campus, at the coastal landscape of Camp Gray, or in the high desert at Hancock Field Station, youth can experience hands-on learning and adventures while making lifelong friends. Spaces are limited—get ready for a summer full of science!

Cost: $295-$2035 Registration Deadline: Open until full (they fill fast!)

Dates: Day camps: June 17-Aug 30.

Overnight camps: June 24-Sep 2 Ages: 5-18 Camp location: 1945 SE Water Ave, Portland, OR 97214 Camp Hancock: 39472 Highway 218, Fossil, OR 97830 Camp Gray: 3400 SW Abalone St., Newport, OR 97366 503-797-4661 secure.omsi.edu/camps-and-classes

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Sellwood Community House summer camp is 9 timeless weeks of fun. A whole summer of talent shows, camp skits, pool days, arts and crafts, sports and games, building, making, exploring, and creating with friends. We serve ages 3 to 14, with specialized programs for different age groups.

Campers will leave each day filled with memories that will last a lifetime.

Cost: $275-$450 Registration Deadline: June 14 Dates: June 24-Aug 16 Ages: 3-14 Camp location: Sellwood Community House 1436 SE Spokane St. Portland, OR 97202 503-894-9496 info@sellwoodcommunityhouse.org Sellwoodcommunityhouse.org

Spring & Summer Day Camps Herrold Stables Horseback riding Day Camp for beginning to advanced rider.

Horsemanship, and horse care covered daily. Student will be taught how to walk, trot, and canter on horseback as abilities allow.

Cost: $310 Registration Deadline: 8/30 Dates: March 26-28, 2024, June Ages: 3-18 Camp location: Hillsboro Oregon Horseback Riding Day Camp Spring Break and All Summer long Sign up today!

971-235-4529 HerroldStables@yahoo.com herroldstables.com/riding-camps

Steve & Kate’s Camp Since 1980, Steve & Kate’s has put kids in charge.

Campers aged 4–12 choose from a variety of activities in real-time, including sewing, coding, maker crafts, sports, and more! Families can buy any number of days, to use at any time. If your plans change, we’ll automatically refund any unused Passes in full. Lunch, snacks & all hours (8am–6pm) included.

Cost: $120 Daily Pass $3,600 Summer Pass Registration Deadline: Rolling Registration throughout summer!

Dates:June 17-Aug 16 Ages: 4-12 Camp location: 601 NE Cesar E Chavez Blvd.

Portland, OR 97232 503-451-3032 portland@steveandkate.com steveandkate.com/portland

Summer at OES Summer at OES offers students in pre-K through fifth grade a variety of inquiry-based summer enrichment programs that build joy, wonder, and respect for one another. The OES campus is nestled among the woodlands, wetlands, and wildlife of the hills of Southwest Portland.

Excursions to natural areas are included with some camps.

Cost: $525 per week Registration Deadline: Opens March 1 Dates: June 24-Aug 9 Ages: pre-K-5th grade Camp location: On the OES campus, 6300 SW Nicol Rd., Portland, OR 9722 503-246-7771 summer@oes.edu oes.edu/summer

Summer Camp at Touchstone Schools Campers jump into action as they explore science and nature, become involved in creative and performing arts, and participate in sports and games.

Dates: 6/17-8/23 Ages: Rising 1st-4th Grade Camp location: Tigard, 7090 SW Fir Loop Portland OR 97223 Hillsboro, 6355 NE Cornelius Pass Rd. Hillsboro, OR 97124 866-537-4455 cgreenberg@mghus.com touchstoneschools.com/camp/ summer-camp

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All Sports / Soccer / All Girls / Competitive / Youth Leadership

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Trackers Earth Explore Trackers Earth’s awardwinning camps!

Kids adventure outdoors, make friends, and learn new skills with expert Guides. Choose from Studio (onsite) or Adventure (mobile) Camps: • Stealth, Archery & Wilderness Survival • Fishing, Boating & Outdoor Cooking • Animals, Farms & Wild Food Foraging • Role-Playing Games, Secret Agents & Wizards • Sewing, Woodworking & Handcrafts • Pottery & Blacksmithing Cost: $465 Week, Day Camp Studio (Onsite)/$565 Week, Day Camp (Mobile)/$838 Week, Overnight Registration Deadline: Ongoing Dates: June 17-Aug 30 Ages: Grades K-12 Camp location: Day Camp - Portland: NE Portland - Lloyd SE Portland - Sellwood W Portland - Cedar Hills Day & Overnight Camps - Sandy, OR 503-345-3312 hello@trackersearth.com trackerspdx.com/youth/camps/ summer-camp

GYMNASTICS CAMPS Dynamic Ninja-GymSwim-LEGO & More!

Our Dynamic camps provide kids with an active day of sports & FUN including Gymnastics, Ninja, Swim, Science, Art & More! (beautiful 20,000sf air-conditioned facility, located right off I-205) Cost: $495 Registration Deadline: Early!

Dates: June-Aug Ages: 4-12 Camp location: DolFUN Dynamics Swim-Move-Play-Learn 9260 SE Stark St., Portland, OR 97216 888-365-3862 register@dolfunswimacademy.com dolFUNdynamics.com

Oregon Gymnastics Academy OGA Summer Camps offer friends, fitness, and fun all rolled into one! Each day will include hours of gymnastics instruction along with activities designed to spark your child’s imagination and creativity. In addition to gymnastics instruction, campers will take part in on-site activities on Friday mornings, and Full Day Campers will have trips to the park Tuesday and Thursday afternoons.

Cost: $140-$450 per week Dates: June 17-Aug 23 Ages: 5-12 Camp location: Oregon Gymnastics Academy, 16305 NW Bethany Ct. Suite 109, Beaverton OR, 97006 ogagym.org/activities/summer-camps info@ogagym.org

Tempos Summer Circus Camps!

Come join the circus! Tempos summer camps are where youth can get comfortable upside down, sideways, and backwards. We offer a variety of camps to explore the circus arts including aerial dance, partner acrobatics, handstands, tumbling, juggling, hula-hooping and more!

We offer both week-long and 2 day weekend camps for ages 5-18.

Cost: $150-$400 Registration Deadline: varies per camp Dates: June, July, August Ages: 5-18 Camp location: Tempos Circus 423 SE Ivon St. Portland, OR 97202 971-319-0540 tempos.info@gmail.com temposcircus.com/summercamps

INCLUSIVE CAMPS

Easterseals Day Camp Easterseals Oregon offers an enriching Day Camp for children 10-14 with disabilities. Located across four Portland Metro areas, our camp offers a safe, fun environment with a 3:1 staff ratio. Enjoy creative arts, sports, nature, and performance activities. Each 5-day session runs 9am-3pm, includes a t-shirt, water bottle, and culminates in a talent show. Join us & make unforgettable memories!

Cost: $375.00 Registration Deadline: June 30 Dates: July 22-Aug 16 Ages: 10-14 Camp location: Camp will be in rotating locations to reach various communities in the Portland Metro area. Location details coming soon!

971-706-4060 camp@or.easterseals.com easterseals.com/oregon

MUSIC INSTRUCTION Ekone Ranch Summer Camp Ekone is a magical place where kids are empowered and every day has a sense of belonging and adventure!

Sessions offered include horses, music, teen leadership, art, cooking, and more.

Cost: $900-$1800 Registration Deadline: Open till filled Dates: June 22-Aug 12 Ages: 8-18 Camp location: Goldendale, WA 509-773-4536 summercamp@ekone.org ekone.org

Electronic Music Club Let your child craft their music their way this summer. With the latest music-making tools, our camps cater to diverse interests— from pop hits to hip hop and techno.

Participants explore hands-on activities, creating their music production gear. From pop-song production camp to video game music camp, we have something for every student’s taste!

Cost: $375-$425 Registration Deadline: June 12 Dates: June 17-Aug 16 Ages: 7-13 Camp location: Unity of Portland 4525 SE Stark St. Portland, OR 97215 503-208-6602 info@electronicmusicclub.net electronicmusicclub.net/summercamp

Summer Sing Making MUSIC with new friends is FUN! Summer Sing is a day camp for rising 1st–6th graders with arts & crafts, story telling, dance, and of course, SINGING! Let your imagination take the lead! Each week ends with a performance for family!

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT through 3/31!

FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE Cost: $0 - $375 Registration Deadline: July 22 Dates: July 29–Aug 9 Ages: Rising 1st–6th Graders Camp location: Portland: July 29–Aug 2, St. Philip Neri Catholic Church, 2408 SE 16th Ave., Portland, OR 97214 Beaverton: Aug 5–9, Cedar Hills United Church of Christ, 11695 SW Park Way, Portland, OR 97225 503-230-0652 orsyouthchoir@orsingers.org orsingers.org/youth-choir/summersing

GET THE BEST OF KID-FRIENDLY PORTLAND DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX! SIGN UP AT PDXPARENT.COM. 44

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A WORLD OF FUN!

LAUGH. SPLASH. HAVE FUN! Indoor swim lessons available for all ages and skill levels!

Spanish, Japanese, or Chinese

Beginner to Advanced • PreK - 5th Grade intlschool.org/summer • summer@intlschool.org

emlerswimschool.com 855-232-2006

South Waterfront / Downtown, Portland

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Backbeat Music Academy Try Everything, Rock Band, Write Music for Computer Games, Songwriting, more Backbeat Music Academy offers a variety of camps for all ages all summer long. These include Try Everything Camps, where kids get to try out hundreds of different instruments and learn to play a little on each, Rock Band, Songwriting, Write Music for Computer Games, Music Production and more. Private lessons in each are available yearround.

Cost: $149-$359 Registration Deadline: rolling Dates: all summer Ages: 5-18 Camp location: Backbeat Music Academy, 4770 SW 76th Ave. Portland 97225. contact@backbeatmusicacademy. com Backbeatmusicacademy.com

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CAMPS Alpengirl Alpengirl is a multi-adventure tripping camp for girls grades 6 to 11 with adventures across the Pacific Northwest and Northern Rocky Mountains.

Ages: 11-16 Camp location: Bozeman, Montana 406-570-6312 info@alpengirlcamp.com alpengirlcamp.com

Eden Acres Summer Outdoors!

Adventure. Play. Nature. Naturebased day camps for kids 3-12.

Cost: $460/week Registration Deadline: N/A Dates: June-Aug Ages: 3-12 Camp location: 16528 NW Johnson Rd., Hillsboro, OR 97124 440-479-4813 info.edenacres@gmail.com edenacres.org/summer-camps-2024

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Balance Soccer CONNECT + PLAY + LEARN This extraordinary, all-inclusive camp in the woods will get kids out into nature in a safe space to play and explore. No cell phones or video games here!

Activities & Amenities: 3 ​ 50 foot slip ‘n’ slide, heated outdoor pool, natural grass soccer fields, capture the flag, basketball courts, lazy river floating, 4-square soccer tennis.

Cost: 829 Registration Deadline: June 15 Dates: Boys June 20-24, Girls July 15-19 Ages: 9-16 Camp location: Camp Cedar Ridge 18062 Keasey Rd. Vernonia, OR 97064 847-508-8388 tyler@balancesoccer.com balancesoccer.com/camps

SWIFTS Nature Summer Camp with Bird Alliance of Oregon Join Bird Alliance of Oregon for truly amazing, nature-based adventures all summer long! SWIFTS Nature Summer Camps combine art, science experiments and games with explorations of our beautiful, 172acre Nature Sanctuary neighboring Forest Park and adventures all over the Pacific Northwest.

Cost: Sliding Scale Dates: June 24-Aug 30 Ages: Grades 1-12 Camp location: Our campus and Nature Sanctuary is located at Cornell Road in NW Portland, 5151 NW Cornell Rd., Portland, OR 97210 503-292-6855 camp@audubonportland.org audubonportland.org/our-work/learn/ youth-programs/camps-for-kids/ summer-camp

Trackers Earth Explore Trackers Earth’s awardwinning camps!

Kids adventure outdoors, make friends, and learn new skills with expert Guides. Choose from Studio (onsite) or Adventure (mobile) Camps: • Stealth, Archery & Wilderness Survival • Fishing, Boating & Outdoor Cooking • Animals, Farms & Wild Food Foraging • Role-Playing Games, Secret Agents & Wizards • Sewing, Woodworking & Handcrafts • Pottery & Blacksmithing Cost: $465 Week, Day Camp Studio (Onsite)/$565 Week, Day Camp (Mobile)/$838 Week, Overnight Registration Deadline: Ongoing Dates: June 17-Aug 30 Ages: Grades K-12 Camp location: Day Camp - Portland: NE Portland - Lloyd SE Portland - Sellwood W Portland - Cedar Hills Day & Overnight Camps - Sandy, OR 503-345-3312 hello@trackersearth.com trackerspdx.com/youth/camps/ summer-camp

Tryon Forest Adventures Spend the summer outdoors! Observe the sights and sounds of the forest while hiking tree-lined trails and crossing bridges over Tryon Creek. Have fun learning from nature, building forts, and engaging in science-based activities. Connecting kids to nature since 1970, Friends of Tryon Creek creates an inclusive and caring space by being respectful to each other and the forest.

Cost: $400-$450 Dates: Weekly, Starting June 17 Ages: 6-14 Camp Location: Tryon Creek State Natural Area, 11321 S Terwilliger Blvd Portland, OR 97219 503-636-4398 tryonfriends.org/forest-adventures adventures@tryonfriends.org

Tree Folk At Tree Folk summer camps, kids spend all day outside connecting with nature, learning about the ecosystem, and tapping into their innate creativity and curiosity through art. Camps this summer will build shelters, make potions and elixirs from foraged herbs, dye clothing with natural pigments, and so much more!

Dates: June 24-Aug 23 Ages: 5-11 Camp location: Oregon City treefolkoc@gmail.com treefolkoc.com

OVERNIGHT CAMPS Balance Soccer CONNECT + PLAY + LEARN This extraordinary, all-inclusive camp in the woods will get kids out into nature in a safe space to play and explore. No cell phones or video games here!

Activities & Amenities: ​350 foot slip ‘n’ slide, heated outdoor pool, natural grass soccer fields, capture the flag, basketball courts, lazy river floating, 4-square soccer tennis.

Cost: 829 Registration Deadline: June 15 Dates: Boys June 20-24, Girls July 15-19 Ages: 9-16 Camp location: Camp Cedar Ridge 18062 Keasey Rd. Vernonia, OR 97064 847-508-8388 tyler@balancesoccer.com balancesoccer.com/camps

Secure your spot and save today at

Camp Magruder provides a unique oceanfront experience where your child can discover nature’s wonders, forge lasting bonds, and nurture their spirit amidst fun activities led by dedicated staff members. www.campmagruder.org | Rockaway Beach, OR pdxparent.com

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Big Lake Youth Camp Youth camps are 6 days of adventure, learning, and new friends! Activities: archery, canoeing, art, horsemanship, wake sports, ceramics/pottery, robots, rockets, & more. Family camps are 4 days, open to all ages!

Cost: Varies on session selected Dates: June 20-Aug 25 Ages: 7-17 for youth camps. All ages for family camps.

Location: 26435 Big Lake Rd., Sisters, OR 503-850-3583 office@biglake.org biglake.org

Ekone Ranch Summer Camp Ekone is a magical place where kids are empowered and every day has a sense of belonging and adventure! Sessions offered include horses, music, teen leadership, art, cooking, and more.

Cost: $900-$1800 Registration Deadline: Open till filled Dates: June 22-Aug 12 Ages: 8-18 Camp location: Goldendale, WA 509-773-4536 summercamp@ekone.org ekone.org

Camp Magruder Camp Magruder provides a unique oceanfront experience where your child can discover nature’s wonders, forge lasting bonds, and nurture their spirit amidst fun activities led by dedicated staff members.

Cost: $380-$835 Registration Deadline: 2 weeks before the date of the camp you’re attending Dates: June 23-28, July 1-4, July 8-12, Aug 4-9 Ages: 7-18 Camp location: Rockaway Beach, OR 503-355-2310 hope@campmagruder.org campmagruder.org

Dharma Camp Swimming, crafts, games, and campfire are joined by Buddhist practices like meditation, chanting, silent breakfast, and mindful work.

All are welcome. Campers need not be Buddhist or have meditation experience.

Cost: $550, $100 deposit Registration Deadline: June 2 Dates: July 21-26 Ages: 9-18 Camp location Molalla Retreat 36208 S Molalla Forest Rd. Molalla, OR 97038 503-239-4846 dharmagarden@dharma-rain.org dharma-rain.org/childrens-programs/ dharmacamp

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Oregon Museum of Science and Industry Let your student explore, learn, and create this summer with OMSI camps and classes!

Whether it’s at our actionpacked museum campus, at the coastal landscape of Camp Gray, or in the high desert at Hancock Field Station, youth can experience hands-on learning and adventures while making lifelong friends. Spaces are limited—get ready for a summer full of science!

Cost: $295-$2035 Registration Deadline: Open until full (they fill fast!)

Dates: Day camps: June 17-Aug 30. Overnight camps: June 24Sep 2 Ages: 5-18 Camp location: 1945 SE Water Ave, Portland, OR 97214 Camp Hancock: 39472 Highway 218, Fossil, OR 97830 Camp Gray: 3400 SW Abalone St., Newport, OR 97366 503-797-4661 secure.omsi.edu/camps-andclasses

Trackers Earth Explore Trackers Earth’s awardwinning camps! Kids adventure outdoors, make friends, and learn new skills with expert Guides. Choose from Studio (onsite) or Adventure (mobile) Camps: • Stealth, Archery & Wilderness Survival • Fishing, Boating & Outdoor Cooking • Animals, Farms & Wild Food Foraging • Role-Playing Games, Secret Agents & Wizards • Sewing, Woodworking & Handcrafts • Pottery & Blacksmithing Cost: $465 Week, Day Camp Studio (Onsite)/$565 Week, Day Camp (Mobile)/$838 Week, Overnight Registration Deadline: Ongoing Dates: June 17-Aug 30 Ages: Grades K-12 Camp location: Day Camp - Portland: NE Portland - Lloyd SE Portland - Sellwood W Portland - Cedar Hills Day & Overnight Camps - Sandy, OR 503-345-3312 hello@trackersearth.com trackerspdx.com/youth/camps/summercamp

PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS Imagine Summer Camps & Programs A place to foster your love for, and the skill of, the performing arts all while building intentional community and belonging - this is Imagine Theatre.

Summer 2024 offers various musical theatre, improv/comedy, dance, voice, and performance opportunities for youth ages 7-18. Also be on the look out for stage opportunities for those 18+!

Cost: $180-200, Scholarships/Payment Plans Available Registration Deadline: June 30 Dates: July 8-12 & 15-19 Ages: 7-18 Camp location: 14700 SE Rupert Dr., Oak Grove, OR 97267 503-453-6691 office@imaginetheatre.org imaginetheatre.org/summer

Disney’s Finding Nemo KIDS Musical Theatre Camp

This camp will strengthen students’ skills in acting, singing and dancing!

Disney’s Finding Nemo KIDS is a 30-minute musical adaptation of the beloved Pixar movie Finding Nemo.

Dates: July 8-19 & Aug 12-23 Ages: 6-14 Camp location: Lovegood Performing Arts Company, 16260 NW Bronson Rd, Beaverton, OR 97006 503-278-5898 classes@lovegood.company lovegood.company/summer

NWCT Summer Theater Camps Whether you’re new to theater or you’re ready to enhance your singing, dancing, and acting skills, there’s something for everyone at NWCT! “All three of my children love the activities, teachers, and performing!

I’m continually impressed with the quality of programming and caring of staff. It’s been wonderful watching my kids’ confidence grow with each performance!” - Parent Cost: $240-$960 Registration Deadline: Ongoing but camps fill up fast!

Dates: June 17-Aug 23 Ages: 4-14 Camp locations: The Judy (NWCT’s home in downtown Portland) 1000 SW Broadway, T-100., Portland, OR 97205 (June 17–Aug 23) Portland Eastside: Trinity Methodist, 3915 SE Steele St., Portland, OR 97202 (June 17-July 12). Rose City Methodist, 5830 NE Alameda St., Portland, OR 97213 (July 15 - August 9) Patricia Reser Center for the Arts, 12625 SW Crescent St., Beaverton, OR 97005 (July 29–Aug 23) 503-222-2190 classes@nwcts.org nwcts.org/summer-camp-24

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Oregon Children’s Theatre At Oregon Children’s Theatre we believe that theatre skills are life skills. Camps at OCT help kids develop both as performers and individuals, strengthening life skills such as empathy, teamwork, creativity, confidence, and much more. Come imagine, learn, and grow with us this summer! Scholarships are available for those with a financial need; please contact us for more information.

Dates: June-Aug Ages: 3-18 Camp location: Oregon Children’s Theatre (Main Offices) 541 NE 20th Ave., #220 Portland, OR 97232 Multnomah Arts Center Cottages, 7740 SW Capitol Hwy., Portland, OR 97219 503-228-9571 info@octc.org octc.org

Portland Drama Club - Musical Theater Camps

Cost: $390 Registration Deadline: 1 week prior to the camps start date Dates: June 10-Aug 23 Ages: 4 & up Camp location: 16205 NW Bethany Ct. #100., Beaverton, OR 97006 503-298-3277 events@aimhighevents.org aimhighma.org/camps

Balance Soccer CONNECT + PLAY + LEARN This extraordinary, all-inclusive camp in the woods will get kids out into nature in a safe space to play and explore.

No cell phones or video games here!

Activities & Amenities: 3 ​ 50 foot slip ‘n’ slide, heated outdoor pool, natural grass soccer fields, capture the flag, basketball courts, lazy river floating, 4-square soccer tennis.

Cost: 829 Registration Deadline: June 15 Dates: Boys June 20-24, Girls July 15-19 Ages: 9-16 Camp location: Camp Cedar Ridge 18062 Keasey Rd. Vernonia, OR 97064

Portland Drama Club teaches Portland’s youth the power in themselves through play, practice and performance. Students learn a 20 - 60 minute show from start to finish performed at the end of camp, complete with costumes and sets on our outdoor stage. We believe theater skills are life skills!

847-508-8388 tyler@balancesoccer.com balancesoccer.com/camps

Cost: approx $400/week Dates: June 17-Aug 24 Ages: 5 - 14 Camp location: 2800 SE Harrison St., Portland, OR 97214

Time to unplug? Established in Portland in 2008, BaxterSports offers a holistic approach to teaching and coaching kids. With a mix of traditional sports and creative games that emphasize positivity, fair play and the importance of community, their award winning outdoor camps for grades K-8 are fun, active and engaging no matter your child’s experience or skill level.

503-732-0085 info@portlanddramaclub.org portlanddramaclub.org

SPORTS/MARTIAL ARTS CAMPS Aim High Summer Camps!

Aim High Martial Arts & Events offer 11 weeks of fun-filled, themed Summer Camps jam packed with special visits/activities, take home items, martial arts, bounce-houseFridays & more!

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BaxterSports Camps

Dates: June 17-Aug 23 Ages: 5-14 Camp location: N & NE Portland Parks: Arbor Lodge, Alberta, Fernhill, Rose City, Normandale. SE Portland Parks: Clinton, Sellwood, Woodstock, Kenilworth 458-207-6375 info@baxtersports.com Baxtersports.com

Emler Swim School Daily Lessons Come for a swim lesson every day M-F, for a total of 5 lessons, which give your child a short intensive experience to learn the basics of swimming!

Ages: 3+ Camp location: Emler Swim School 9140 SW Hall Blvd., Beaverton, OR 97223 Emler Swim School -19449 SW Martinazzi Ave., Tualatin, OR 97062 855-232-2006 beaverton@emlerswimschool.com emlerswimschool.com

Jordan Kent’s Just Kids Skill Camp Just Kids Skill Camps offers fundamental training in football, soccer, and basketball. Campers will learn to challenge themselves and develop a love for their sport in an exciting setting!

Cost: $199.95 Registration Deadline: Various Dates: Various Ages: 6-12 Camp location: West Hills Christian School Oak Creek Elementary School Holy Trinity 888-832-6984 info@jordankentcamps.com jordankentcamps.com

K-Lean’s Tennis Summer Camp Tennis/Golf development programs.

We focus on providing a FUN, fast paced and a game based approach.

Our approach adds excitement and enjoyment for the kids as they learn through a progression of drills and games specific for each of the levels of play. We teach with passion, loads of energy and space for kids to realize and attain their potential.

Cost: $328 (4 HR), $548 (All Day) Registration Deadline: Early Bird 10% discount through March 2024 Dates: June 17-Aug 15 Ages: 6-14 Camp location: 14015 NE Glisan St., Portland, OR 97089 503-701-4408 kaleen@kleanstennis.com KLeans.com

Modo Yoga Portland We offer a fun-filled and robust week of activities to keep your child(ren) engaged and entertained! Our weekly schedule includes games, Mt. Tabor park excursions, scavenger hunts, swimming, yoga, arts & crafts and a Friday immersive field trip! Your camper will learn the fundamentals of yoga shapes and have the opportunity to present their own teaching skills to their peers!

Cost: $450 Registration Deadline: July 1 Dates: Week 1: Aug 12-16/Week 2: Aug 19-23/Week 3: Aug 26-30 Ages: 7-10 Camp location: Taborspace 5441 SE Belmont St., Portland, OR 97215 503-206-5667 info@modoyogaportland.com modoyogaportland.com

NCPRD Summer Camps NCPRD offers a wide variety of affordable day camps designed to keep kids active, connected and having fun all summer long. Choose from sports, science, nature, dance and horseback riding camps. Summer Camp registration opens April 2 at noon for NCPRD residents and on Tuesday, April 9 at noon for nonresidents.

Ages: 3-18 Camp location: Multiple locations in Milwaukie and Clackamas 503-794-3877 recreation@ncprd.com ncprd.com/summer-camps

Starting at 4 months old 91 degree water and air temperature Morning and afternoon times available Register at any time!

Register at www.childrenofthesea.com

Where the pool is your classroom and learning is fun!

NT

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Children of the Sea Swim School RE

10225 SW Park Way, Portland, OR 97225

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PTFC Camps Play soccer this Spring and Summer with the Timbers and Thorns at Providence Park and around Portland! Recreational Camps for ages 5-13 are for learning new skills and developing fundamentals.

Check out our competitive camps to take your game to the next level!

Residential Camp will show you what it is like to be a college soccer player.

Cost: $240 Registration Deadline: None Dates: June-Sep Ages: 5-18 Camp location: Providence Park: Beaverton, Tigard, Happy Valley, Clackamas, Milwaukie. Eastside Timbers Complex: Hillsboro, Wilsonville, Oregon City, PCHS, Gladstone, Vancouver, and more! ptfccamps@timbers.com ptfccamps.com

Portland Ultimate Skyhawks Sports Academy Sports Camps Skyhawks progression of camps and programs, led by our expert staff, are geared toward youth looking for an introduction to a sport, or those who want to refine and master their sport-specific skills. Skyhawks Sports Academy has proven to be the most trusted leader in youth sports since 1979!

Cost: $159-$320 Registration Deadline: 6-1-2024 Dates: 6/17/24 - 8/31/24 Ages: 4-14 Camp location: As the most trusted camp provider, Skyhawks Sports Camps are hosted at multiple Portland metro area & SW Washington facilities.

503-894-3509 oregon@skyhawks.com register.skyhawks.com

Rose City Rollers Summer Camp A week of roller skating, arts and crafts, and fun at Roller Derby Summer Camp! 5 weeks of camp available, each tailored to a different age group and skill level!

Cost: $300-$335, scholarships available Dates: July 8-Aug 9 Registration Deadline: Available Until Full Ages: 7-18 Camp location: The Hangar at Oaks Amusement Park, 7805 SE Oaks Park Way, Portland, OR 97202 juniors@rosecityrollers.com rosecityrollers.com/schedule/ summer-camp-2024

Stronger Skatepark Kids can learn to skateboard or build their skills in our large facility or choose a travel camp and head out to different skateparks across the metro area every day! On campus camps also include art, games, a climbing wall and optional aftercare.

Cost: $450 + Dates: Weekly June 17-Aug 30 Ages: 6-16 Camp location: Stronger Skatepark 6102 SE King Rd. Milwaukie, OR 97222 503-850-4572 contact@strongerskatepark.com strongerskatepark.com/ campsUltimate Frisbee

Our Ultimate camps are great for anyone who wants to get outside and move their bodies and make some friends, all while learning a new game this summer!

Cost: $175-$350 Registration Deadline: One week before camp Dates: Every week of the summer between June 17th and August 16th!

Ages: 5-18 Camp location: Each week is at a different park in the Portland Metro area!

503-933-1901 youthdirector@portlandultimate.org portlandultimate.org/overviewsummer-camps-2024

USTA PNW RecTennis Summer Tennis Camp USTA PNW RecTennis Summer Tennis Camps offers affordable youth & adult tennis camps for all skill levels at local parks in Portland & Beaverton!

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Cost: $375-$425 Registration Deadline: June 12 Dates: June 17-Aug 16 Ages: 7-13 Camp location: Unity of Portland 4525 SE Stark St. Portland, OR 97215 503-208-6602 info@electronicmusicclub.net electronicmusicclub.net/summercamp

info@rectennis.com rectennis.com

STEM CAMPS

Camp Invention Spark your child’s creativity and confidence with our new Camp Invention® program, Illuminate!

Children in grades K-6 will team up and take on fun, hands-on STEM challenges. They’ll design a light-up ball game, star in a prototyping game show and more! Visit invent.org/Local to secure your spot! Use promo code SUM25 by 3/27 to save $25.

800-968-4332 CampInvention@invent.org invent.org/local

March 2024

Let your child craft their music their way this summer. With the latest music-making tools, our camps cater to diverse interests— from pop hits to hip hop and techno.

Participants explore hands-on activities, creating their music production gear. From pop-song production camp to video game music camp, we have something for every student’s taste!

Cost: $90-$250 Ages: 5-17 Camp location: Various locations

Dates: Summer 2024 Ages: 5-12 Camp location: 4701 SE Bush St., Portland, OR 97206; 7452 SW 52nd Ave., Portland, OR 97219; 1612 NE Garfield St., Camas, WA 98607

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Experiment PDX Summer Camps Two half-day camps every week, can be combined for full-day, we provide a supervised lunch hour. LEGO Robotics Camp in the morning builds coding, engineering and teamwork skills. STEAM camp in the afternoon includes interactive science, arts and crafts and reading with discussion.

All camps are in our Hands-On Museum & Craft Lab. Cost: $200/half-day camp/week Dates: June 17-Aug 23 Ages: K-5 Camp location: Experiment PDX 1421 SE Stark St., Portland, OR 97214 503-889-0931 curious@experimentpdx.com experimentpdx.com/after-schoolprograms

A legacy of community building open play park - preschool - camps - afterschool - birthday party rentals - community events - teens/tween programs

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NCPRD Summer Camps NCPRD offers a wide variety of affordable day camps designed to keep kids active, connected and having fun all summer long.

Choose from sports, science, nature, dance and horseback riding camps.

Summer Camp registration opens April 2 at noon for NCPRD residents and on Tuesday, April 9 at noon for non-residents.

Ages: 3-18 Camp location: Multiple locations in Milwaukie and Clackamas

Aerial Dance PDX is the new home for youth aerial arts.

Offering summer camps and classes for youth and teens.

Register now for our summer camps.

www.aerialdancepdx.com

503-794-3877 recreation@ncprd.com ncprd.com/summer-camps

Saturday Academy’s STEAM Summer Camps

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry Let your student explore, learn, and create this summer with OMSI camps and classes!

Whether it’s at our action-packed museum campus, at the coastal landscape of Camp Gray, or in the high desert at Hancock Field Station, youth can experience hands-on learning and adventures while making lifelong friends. Spaces are limited—get ready for a summer full of science!

Cost: $295-$2035 Registration Deadline: Open until full (they fill fast!)

Dates: Day camps: June 17-Aug 30.

Overnight camps: June 24-Sep 2 Ages: 5-18 Camp location: 1945 SE Water Ave, Portland, OR 97214 Camp Hancock: 39472 Highway 218, Fossil, OR 97830 Camp Gray: 3400 SW Abalone St., Newport, OR 97366

Saturday Academy offers immersive, dynamic, hands-on summer learning experiences that explore the intersections of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Math) for grades K-8. Designed to take students on a unique learning journey throughout the week, students deepen their sense of identity, community connection, and global awareness through these empowering experiences for the next generation of innovator.

Cost: $295-$375 Registration Deadline: Rolling Dates: July 8- Aug 23 Ages: 5-13 Camp location: University of Portland 5000 N Willamette Blvd.

Portland, OR 97203 503-200-5858 education@saturdayacademy.org saturdayacademy.org

503-797-4661 secure.omsi.edu/camps-and-classes

! t i f t h g i r e h Find t Test out camps in person at

PDX Parent’s Summer Camps Expo , Saturday, March 16, 10 am-2 pm at the Lloyd Center Mall.

Pdxparent.com/camp-expo

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SPRING: MARCH 25-28 SUMMER: JUNE 17-AUG 29

DYNAMIC NINJA-GYMSWIM-LEGO CAMP!

CHOOSE FULL OR HALF DAY!

Our Dynamic Camps provide kids with an

Summer: June 17-Aug 29

active day of sports & fun including

Spring: March 25-28

gymnastics, tumbling, Ninja, obstacle

Monday-Thursday:

courses, trampolines, swimming, LEGO

9:00-4:00 / 9:00-Noon

engineers, crafts & more!

Join us at our beautiful 20,000sf airconditioned facility located right off I-205!

Ages 3.5 - 12 $495 / $395

REGISTER AT DOLFUNDYNAMICS.COM

Sports & Games • Exciting STEM Activities Arts, Crafts, Music, Dance & Drama Field Trips & Events • Kindergarten Enrichment Touchstone School School-Age Camp & Preschool Program 6355 NE Cornelius Pass Road, Hillsboro, OR 97124 • 7090 SW Fir Loop, Portland, OR 97223 56TS_PDXParent_Camp_Mar24_8x4.875.indd March 2024 | pdxparent.com 1

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SUMMER TENNIS USTA PNW RecTennis

offers affordable youth & adult tennis camps for all skill levels at local parks in Portland and Beaverton.

Register at RecTennis.com

SCAN

Vibe Summer Art Camps!

June 17Aug 30

SUMMER CLIMBING CAMPS AGES 5-12

several locations throughout pdx-new Rose City and NE locations

DETAILS

Camps for ages 5 and up,

Campers will participate in climbing activities to improve their balance, coordination, and problem-solving. Daily games + lessons help culitvate confidence on and off the wall.

CAMP DATES

CAMP DATES

JUN-AUG

$400 p/w Scholarships available

vibepdx.org

camps for older kids too Automaton. Cartooning.

Mixed Media, weaving.

Natural Dyes, Music & Movement, Pride Art, jewelry making. Band Camp. string camp. Puppet Making.

Miniatures.... and MORE!

REGISTRATION OPENS FRIDAY MARCH 3RD SIGN UP AT THECIRCUITGYM.COM

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We have scholarships available for BIPOC families and those attending Title 1 schools in PPS.

GILCHRIST ART CAMP AGES 12 AGES 35 –- 12 YOUR KIDS FAVORITE WEEK OF SUMMER WWW.GILCHRISTARTCAMP.COM

the.wright.clay.studio.

Summer Sing EAST: July 29 – August 2

St. Philip Neri Catholic Church

Penny Age 12

KIDS FINE ART SUMMER CLAY CAMPS

Summer Sing WEST: August 5 – 9

Cedar Hills United Church of Christ

$350|MON-FRI 9AM-1PM

Focusing on Large Scale Ceramic Sculpture making a summer all about being creative in clay.

thewrightclay.com

Early Bird pricing through March 31st!

Located blocks from Fernhill Park in the Concordia neighborhood pdxparent.com

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K-Lean's Tennis

JOIN NOW!

BEST SUMMER CAMP 2024 ALL DAY TENNIS & GOLF HALF DAY TENNIS BEGINNER TO INTERMEDIATE AGES 6-14 T-SHIRTS & PRIZES FUN, FUNDAMENTALS, & GAMES 10% EARLY DISCOUNT!

GLENDOVEER GOLF & TENNIS

503.701.4408 WWW.K-LEANS.COM

PARK CENTER SUMMER CAMP Park Center Summer Camp is for students entering grades 1-6 in the 2024-2025 school year.

The 2024 Park Center Summer Camp runs from 8:30 am until noon, Monday – Friday, July 8 – August 2, 2024.

The Park Center Summer Camp is a four week, half day, campus based program providing structured literacy interventions and summer day camp experiences for students with language-based learning differences.

Each day, students will have a one hour, small group, Orton Gillingham based reading intervention with the rest of the morning filled with fun and challenging enrichment classes created to instill a love of learning and promote self esteem.

Space is limited with only ten students per cohort.

Application fee: $100 Tuition is $2,000 Use the QR code to learn more!

503-594-8800 www.parkacademy.org 1915 South Shore Blvd.

Lake Oswego, OR

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Where kids build confidence, overcome barriers, and find joy in movement!

Beginner + intermediate 100% outdoors!

3 locations Ages 5-17

ATLAS EXPLORERS

SUMMER CAMP 2024

www.biglake.org

Atlas Explorers Summer camp offers a bilingual summer camp experience for K-5th grade students . Explore regions of the World through games, art, field trips and more!

Summer camp dates are: June 17th - August 21st 2024 Summer Camp In The Hilsboro Area

Summer Camp In The Portland Metro Area

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Family Festival SAVE THE DATE!

DREAM. DISCOVER. CREATE.

June 22, 2024

9 am–1 pm

FIND YOUR Y AT THE YMCA OF COLUMBIA-WILLAMETTE SUMMER CAMPS

AT TOPAZ FARM ON SAUVIE ISLAND

Y SUMMER CAMPS ARE THE BEST! 2024 SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

pdxparent.com/family-festival

FREE!

ymcacw.io/camps24

ai170295725167_2024 Summer Camp Ad PDX Parent.pdf 1 12/18/2023 7:40:51 PM

NEXT GENERATION INNOVATORS

FRIENDS, FITNESS summer &

camps

FUN

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

Grades K-8

July-August

S.T.E.A.M. Summer Programs

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ALL ROLLED INTO ONE! REGISTRATION OPENS FEBRUARY 12TH WWW.OGAGYM.ORG 503 531 3409

FIND EVERYTHING YOUR FAMILY NEEDS IN OUR ONLINE DIRECTORY:

PDXPARENT.COM/DIRECTORY

June 24 - August 23 Ages: 3-12 | 9 am-3 pm Early and aftercare available

2 Months of Summer Fun! Explore French, it’s fun without prerequisites

Sing, Play, Explore, Learn, and Laugh Lego Robotics, Drumming, Science, Movie Making, Baking, Dancing, Yoga and Much More!

LUNCHES PREPARED BY OUR OWN CHEF AND SNACKS ARE INCLUDED.

International Leadership Academy French School-PreK-5th Grade 14788 Boones Ferry Rd Lake Oswego, OR 97035 503-662-8452 www.ilapdx.org pdxparent.com

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THIS IS A

SAFE SPACE Find a welcoming environment, playtime and activities at these organizations aimed at building community for LGBTQ+, BIPOC and neurodivergent families.

BY ROBIN LANEHURST

new kid-friendly venue or community space just opened and your family decides, yes, let’s check it out! You coordinate schedules and pack snacks while weathering moans and groans from your kids. You finally get out of the house and load everyone into the car. You argue about who gets to choose the music. And when you arrive at your destination, you’re faced with one of two outcomes: maybe your children get to connect with other kids their age, have a blast, and enjoy a new experience. Or, you might feel immediately uncomfortable, unwelcome, excluded and overwhelmed. Exploring new meet-ups, groups or clubs with your kids is never simple. But for the many LGBTQ+, BIPOC and neurodivergent kids and families, your experiences might unfortunately fall into the second category more often than not.

Enough negative experiences might deter you from trying something new — but fear not, we’ve done the research for you! We heard from parents, kids, and other trusted adults and identified some of the most welcoming, safer spaces for LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and neurodivergent kids and families in the Portland area. Read on for some standout spots, as well as a list of other resources and groups your family might be interested in checking out.

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STEPS PDX When you think of ballet, you might not immediately think of “inclusive.” Images of tall, thin, white dancers with a certain body type; classic performances like Swan Lake and The Nutcracker centering around heterosexual romantic love; and a level of intense focus, discipline and commitment that pushes dancers to their physical, mental and emotional limits might pop into your head instead. But talking to 17-year-old Sean Hobbs and his mother, AJ McCreary, about their experiences at STEPS PDX demonstrates the possibilities and future of dance as a truly inclusive environment.

STEPS PDX is a dance studio in Ladd’s Addition, offering youth and pre-professional classes (ballet, modern dance and hip hop). But it’s more than a dance studio, really; Hobbs describes a deep sense of community at STEPS, and identifies it as a true outlet to express yourself.

What makes STEPS so special are its offerings geared toward BIPOC youth, and intensive efforts to be an inclusive, thoughtful and holistic studio. The majority of dance teachers are BIPOC, and many staff identify as queer. “BIPOC students have less access to spaces like this,” Hobbs says. “We don’t get messaging that it’s for us.”

McCreary confidently describes STEPS as “the most diverse dance studio in Portland.” It’s clear this is intentional — from STEPS’ BIPOC Youth Dance Program (which provides 10 months of lessons in ballet, creative movement and tap for only $200, and scholarships are available) to DanceAbility (a weekly offering for mixed-ability dancers), the studio envisions a future for the dance world that turns no one away, while also being rigorous artistically.

IF YOU GO

stepspdx.com info@stepspdx.com 971-400-0713 1734 SE 12th St.

CAMPOUT Summertime can be a challenging season for LGBTQ+ youth. Many have a strong support system through programming at their schools; at the end of the school year, it can be scary leaving those supports behind. Thankfully, Portland has a great option for them: CampOUT. Founded last spring by Erin Savage, a former Portland Public Schools teacher, CampOUT’s mission is to provide a safe space for LGBTQ+ middle schoolers to build community with each other, and to help them curate the social-emotional skills and self-esteem necessary when life gets hard. Savage hopes to “surround kids with joy, mindfulness practices, physical activity, nature, community building, hobbies and all around the best parts of life experiences.”

Participants start each day of their week-long CampOUT session at 9 am with activities like yoga or meditation, then spend time in both structured activities like cooking, zine making and theater games.

Campers also visit Laurelhurst Park every day to enjoy long walks and workshops led by special guests. Camp ends at 3 pm with time for unstructured hanging out, journaling and art. Both full and partial scholarships are available to cover the $480 a week cost of camp.

Former participants of CampOUT call it a “fun and safe space to be yourself,” where LGBTQ+ young people can “express [themselves] however [they] feel comfortable.” More than just a day camp, it’s “a queer hangout … where you can be yourself without judgment.”

At the end of the summer, CampOUT collects survey results to continually improve their offerings. Last year, an increase of 51% of BIPOC participants and 30% of overall participants agreed with the statement, “I feel part of a community,” compared to the beginning of the summer. Even more telling, 48% of BIPOC participants and 42% of participants campwide agreed that “life has meaning,” after CampOUT.

IF YOU GO

The enrollment lottery to register for CampOUT’s 2024 session opens on March 1 for both sessions (session one: June 17-21, session two: June 24-28). campoutportland.org campOUTportland@gmail.com 971-319-1912

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WILD RECESS When you come to Wild Recess for the first time, you’ll immediately appreciate the way that multiracial, queer and neurodivergent families and children are united around a common passion for nature and community. (You’ll also notice that everyone is masked; although each family masks for different reasons, many have immunocompromised or otherwise high-risk family members, so masks continue to be required for participation in Wild Recess.)

Wild Recess is a free, volunteer-run meet-up founded by Jessica Parsons in September 2021 with the vision of connecting children to nature. “Our first members had been starved of social interaction since the onset of COVID. Over that first month of weekly meet-ups we observed something amazing. … Our children didn’t need scheduled snack time, story time, or planned activities presented to them. They needed recess.”

Nowadays, 10 to 15 families gather for “recess” twice a week on Tuesday mornings and Thursday afternoons in a private forest park, and occasionally at the Oregon Zoo or other nature spots. A typical

day at the Wild Recess gathering in the Southwest Portland woods is anything but typical. Older kids like 12-year-old Hazel, who identifies as neurodiverse and non-binary, play games, or just hang out and talk.

Younger children engage in imaginary play, interact with nature and work on crafts. And, according to one mom, “the grown-ups get just as much out of the meet-ups as the kids. We spend our time talking through the highs and lows of parenting … and offering lots of mutual support.”

What makes Wild Recess truly unique is the lack of adult-imposed structure. Even though parents are required to be present for the meet-ups, kids just get to be kids, and can connect with each other and with nature in the ways that feel best for them. All ages are welcome (although the majority of kids are between 5 and 13 years old), and diversity is embraced — the majority of families have a parent or child who identifies as LGBTQ+, BIPOC or neurodivergent.

Wild Recess families are a tight-knit community, and see the value of their safe space as providing room to handle conflict, missteps, or unsafe behaviors in kind, compassionate ways, without judgment.

Clear communication and openly talking through things means no participants worry that they are going to be shamed for how they feel, think or process.

“In a world full of ugliness, we need some beauty, and Wild Recess is that beauty,” says parent Kortni Johnson, who has participated in Wild Recess with her four kids for the past six months. “It has been life changing.”

IF YOU GO

To connect with Wild Recess, reach out on their Facebook group at: facebook.com/groups/556826165587564 or email wildrecesspdx@gmail.com

A former public school teacher and counselor, Robin Lanehurst is white, queer, non-binary, and neurodivergent, and writes at the intersections of mental health, education, parenthood, and social justice. You can find them on Instagram @robin_lanehurst or at robinlanehurst.com.

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MORE PORTLAND SAFE SPACES Alder Commons

WHAT: Various classes, meet-ups, and programs — art exhibits, cooking classes, storytimes, and more WHEN: Days and times vary; check their website Aldercommons.org

Books With Pictures

WHAT: BIPOC Chill Hours WHEN: Every second, third and fourth Sunday from 4-6 pm

WHAT: Queer + Trans Youth Safe Space WHEN: Fridays, 3-5 pm Bookswithpictures.com

Black and Beyond the Binary

WHAT: Umoja Kijana Shujaa leadership cohort WHEN: Days and times vary; check their website Blackbeyondthebinarycollective.org/leadershipdevelopment-trainings

Bridging Voices

WHAT: LGBTQ+ & Allied Youth Chorus WHEN: Every Sunday from 3:30-6:30 pm, September to June Bridgingvoices.org

Brown Girl Rise

WHAT: Various events such as workshops, book clubs and support groups WHEN: See their Instagram @browngirlrise for dates Browngirlriseportland.org

Centro Cultural

WHAT: Robotics Team WHEN: Every Sunday, 9 am-12 pm Centrocultural.org/centros-lego-robotics-programgives-students-from

Columbia Dance

WHAT: INCLUDE (Inspiring with no Challenges or Limitations, the Universality of Dance Experiences) WHEN: Contact for upcoming session info Pro tip: Check out their sensory-friendly performance of The Nutcracker each December Columbiadance.org/include

Club EMU

WHAT: Game Club WHEN: Second Fridays, 6:30-9:30 pm WHAT: Clubhouse event WHEN: Third Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 pm Clubemu.org

The Living Room

WHAT: LGBTQIA2S+ Youth Meet-up WHEN: Wednesdays, 4-6 pm Newavenues.org/thelivingroomyouth

Multnomah County Libraries

WHAT: Preschool Sensory Storytime WHEN: Various locations, days, and times; check their website Multcolib.org/events-classes/preschool-sensorystorytime-4 WHAT: Teen & Tween GSA WHEN: Monthly at Sellwood-Moreland Library; check their website Multcolib.org/events-classes/teen-tween-gsa-2

NAYA Family Center

WHAT: 9th Grade Counts Summer Camp WHEN: Days and times vary; check their website Nayapdx.org/services/camps-seasonal/9th-gradecounts WHAT: Two Spirit Safe Space Alliance WHEN: Register for more info Nayapdx.org/services/youth-and-education/2sssa WHAT: Camp Rise Day Camp WHEN: Check their website Nayapdx.org/services/camps-seasonal/summercamp-rise

North Clackamas Parks & Recreation District

WHAT: Adaptive and inclusive recreation WHEN: Days and times vary by activity; check their website Ncprd.com/inclusion

PFLAG Portland

WHAT: Support groups WHEN: Days and times vary; check their website Pflagpdx.org/our-work/peer-support/

Portland Parks & Recreation

WHAT: Adaptive and inclusive recreation WHEN: Days and times vary by activity; check their website Portland.gov/parks/air/adaptive-classes-tripsand-activities

Portland Youth Build

WHAT: Construction and technology courses WHEN: Days and times vary by activity; check their website Pybpdx.org/youth-build-program

Project LEDO

WHAT: Lego Robotics WHEN: Days and times vary; check their website

Reframe Collective

WHAT: Re.Imaginaries Pre.School WHEN: Monday-Thursdays, 9 am-1 pm WHAT: The Rainbow School WHEN: Days and times vary by cohort and age group; check their website

WHAT: The Tool School WHEN: Days and times vary by event; check their website Thereframecollective.com/about-us

SMYRC (Sexual & Gender Minority Youth Resource Center)

WHAT: Open hours WHEN: First and third Wednesdays and second and fourth Fridays, 4-7 pm

WHAT: BIPOC Affinity Night WHEN: Once a month, 4-6 pm; check their online calendar Newavenues.org/smyrc

Spectra PDX

WHAT: Gymnastics and ninja programs WHEN: Weekly classes, times vary; check their website Spectrapdx.com

Speak and Be Heard

WHAT: Summer theater camp for neurodiverse children WHEN: July 8-August 1, Monday-Thursday, 9 am-1 pm Speakandbeheard.org/speak-and-be-heardtheater.html#

Third Eye Books, Accessories, & Gifts Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am-6 pm Thirdeyebag.com

TransActive

WHAT: Family and youth support groups WHEN: First and third Saturdays, times vary; check their website Graduate.lclark.edu/programs/continuing_ education/transactive/support-groups

Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District

WHAT: Adaptive and inclusive recreation WHEN: Days and times vary by activity; check their website Thprd.org/pdfs2/activityguide/ WinterSpring2024/thprd.pdf

Wild Diversity

WHAT: QTBIPOC Youth Summer Camp WHEN: Days and times vary; check their website Wilddiversity.com/youth-programs

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fa m i ly s u p p e r For more family-friendly restaurant reviews visit: pdxparent.com/ family-supper.

Chop To It

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My family ventured to the new Dos The new Dos Hermanos Bakery and Cafe in inner Hermanos Bakery and Southeast Portland for a Saturday lunch.

We were already fans of Dos Hermanos, Cafe brings fresh and which had a booth at the summer-and-fall Woodstock Farmers Market. We’d often pick inventive chopped up danishes, brightly colored pan dulce, or a sliced loaf of slightly tangy Miche bread, the sandwiches, and perfect base for breakfast sandwiches. delicious bread to inner The new space on Southeast Stark Street provides expanded production facilities Southeast Portland. and room for a cafe with ample seating.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY DENISE CASTAÑON

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When we arrived, the line wrapped along the back wall, but it moved quickly and we placed our order in about 10 minutes. In

addition to Mexican pastries, Dos Hermanos sells cookies, scones, muffins, bolillos, loaves of sourdough and more. And by 1 pm, they were starting to sell out. But the main menu items are chopped sandwiches dreamed up by Lardo’s Rick Gencarelli. I’d only seen chopped sandwiches on IG Reels, with cooks taking all the ingredients normally layered into a sandwich — and chopping them all up together and mixing with condiments. We got to see the sandwich creators at work as we got to the front of the line; they wielded huge, two-handled, curved cutting blades, rocking them up and down through piles of ingredients before scooping the mixture into sesame or plain 16-inch baguettes.

I ordered a Get Him to The Greek sandwich, which came with feta, chickpeas, olives, pepperoncini, tomato, lettuce, red onion, dill, cilantro and red wine vinaigrette.

My husband tried the Papa Gabe, with ham, escabeche, queso fresco, salsa verde, chicharrónes, cilantro, crema, lettuce and tomato. My 11-year-old daughter, Adela, ordered the TBA, a turkey, bacon and avocado sandwich minus all the condiments.

I was slightly worried about what my picky 9-year-old son, Cruz, would order. Then we spied some custom sandwich order forms.

He built his own sandwich with roast beef, pepperoncini and lettuce. We all got half sandwiches ($11-$13 each), which were actually quite large.

The wait was a little longer to actually get our sandwiches, but we took a few bites of a cajeta (goat’s milk caramel) bread pudding and a special Rosca de Reyes pan dulce (three kings bread) stuffed with a creamy, cherrychocolate filling to tide us over. Eating the Rosca de Reyes bread was messy. But the kids loved it. I also liked the cinnamon flavor of the

If You Go: Dos Hermanos Bakery and Cafe, 1005 SE Stark St., doshermanosbakery. com/cafe. Open daily 7 am-4 pm.

bread pudding, which reminded me of the sweet tamales my family made while I was growing up. We also took home a loaf of Miche.

When we got our sandwiches, we dove right in. Both Adela and Cruz really liked their orders, eating a fair amount of the big sandwiches. We were sitting at a small table and unwrapping the giant paper my sandwich came in proved to be too much for me.

I spilled some of my filling before my first bite — and continued to make a huge mess while eating it.

But I absolutely loved the flavors in the Get Him to the Greek and my sesame baguette, which was a light, airy and crunchy base. With the ingredients all chopped up, I didn’t mind some foods I normally shy away from: raw red onion and Kalamata olives. Each bite was tangy, creamy, crunchy and fresh — something I’m actually craving as I write this. It was the best sandwich I’d had in a long time. My husband liked his Papa Gabe, but he wasn’t as blown away as I was.

He thought the sandwich would have benefited from some slowcooked Mexican beef instead of the ham. But he especially liked the chopped bits of chicharrónes.

All in all we left Dos Hermanos quite satisfied. And I know I’ll be looking for another excuse to get my hands on a Get Him to the Greek chopped sandwich.

PDX Parent's editor Denise Castañon loves sharing new ideas with other Portland parents.

You can find her cooking, eating, crafting and writing in Southeast where she lives with her husband, 9-year-old son and 11-year-old daughter.

Gear Guide:

Bike Bling

Slightly warmer weather may have your kids dusting off their bikes. This spring, help them spiff up their bicycles with these fun accessories.

Preschool, Kindergarten & Childcare Center 4845 SW Murray Boulevard, Beaverton, OR 97005 503-644-1466 | sunshine-montessori.com Ages: 2 years through Kindergarten Hours: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm (Mon - Fri)

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Early Learning School 14950 SW Osprey Drive, Beaverton, OR 97007 503-579-0600 | childs-place.com Ages: Infant through Kindergarten Hours 7:00 am - 6:00 pm (Mon - Fri)

• Large outdoor play areas • Snacks & lunch prepared and served daily

Preschool, Kindergarten & Childcare Center 17650 SW Alexander Street, Aloha, OR 97003 503-591-9660 | www.mayflower-montessori.com Ages: Infant through Kindergarten Hours: 7:00 am - 6:00 pm (Mon - Fri)

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field trip

A Tale of Two Trails

Spring is a great time to explore the trails and viewing window at the Wildwood Recreation Site near Welches.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY ROMA SIDELINGER

I can’t count how many times I have driven through the small town of Welches on my way to an adventure on Mount Hood and cruised past the entrance to the Wildwood Recreation Site. Maybe it was because my three young kids are fussing in the car or I’m counting down the miles until I can stop for a cup of coffee in Rhododendron. It took me years of driving past this area before I finally decided to pull off and explore the trails. If you are looking for well-maintained, kid-friendly trails and an opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, don’t pass up Wildwood! Springtime — after the snow melts and before wildflower season is in full swing — is a great time to visit.

There are two trail options at Wildwood Recreation Site: the ¾-mile, paved Streamwatch Loop, and the gravel-and-boardwalk, ¾-mile Wetlands Trail. These stroller-friendly and ADA-accessible trails take you through unique habitats and interpretive signs that teach you about the area.

The Streamwatch Loop begins near the parking lot beside a steel fish statue. It is a paved trail that takes you past interpretive signs with information on salmon and a 3-D topographical map of the local geography. The highlight of this trail is the salmon-viewing window, which allows you to peer into the underwater world of river creatures in Sixes Creek. Although you won’t see salmon redds in the spring (make sure to come back in the fall), keep an eye out for crayfish and a variety of small fish swimming past. Cross the wooden bridge over the Salmon River.

If You Go: There is a spacious river access area after the 65670 Mt. Hood Hwy, Welches “Big Fish of the River” sign. Dip your bare feet It costs $5/day to visit Wildwood into the shallow water of the Salmon River on Recreation Site. You can purchase warm spring days before finishing the loop.

Want to hike through a different habitat? a day pass on-site with a credit Hop over to the next trail located in the same card. The park also accepts the parking lot area!

America Beautiful Pass and the The Wetlands Loop begins near the parking BLM Northwest Oregon District lot as well. In the springtime, listen for frogs Pass, but not the NW Forest Pass. and be on the lookout for beavers (or chewed sticks that mark their presence). To start 72

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your hike, cross a long wooden bridge over the Salmon River. The boardwalk section of the trail has several spur trails to interpretive signs. In order these spur trails are: cattail marsh, beaver dam, ghost forest, skunk cabbage corner and wetland stream. Do you see those giant leaves in the marshy area? A highway of skunk cabbage fills a channel along the forest edge. After the wetland streams spur, you can choose to extend your hike by taking the Boulder Ridge trail or stay to the right to continue on the Wetlands Trail. You get a view and small access point (no beach area) to the river before the trail loops back to the long wooden bridge at the start of your adventure.

My three boys are fascinated by mushrooms and, year-round, are on the lookout for a variety of fungi bordering the trails of Wildwood Recreation Site. Grady, my 6-year-old, has an especially keen eye for conks and coral mushrooms. He will disappear off trail and I’ll find him by following the excited yelling of, “Mama! Mushrooms!”

Keep an eye out for wildlife as well. Last spring on the Wetland Loop we read one of the interpretive signs: “a red-legged frog startled me by jumping across my path and off into the marsh.” This sign turned out to be prophetic because on our way to the parking lot my oldest son, Nolan, found a giant red-legged frog! We had been studying frogs with our homeschool nature group, but this was the first time we saw a red-legged frog in the wild.

If you are looking for an accessible hike with a variety of habitats, and a spot to play by the river, don’t drive past Wildwood Recreation Site.

Wildwood Recreation Site is open from mid-March through Thanksgiving weekend from 8 am to sunset. If the gate is closed during winter, look for the alternate trailhead parking area off Highway 26 and hike an extra 0.5 miles into the park.

Roma Sidelinger is a homeschool mom of three boys. She founded a nonprofit organization called Wild and Barefoot Adventures, which operates a network of nature groups as well as an outdoor adventure website wildandbarefootadventures.com. When she isn’t exploring new places with her boys, Roma also teaches jiu jitsu in Molalla at a gym cofounded with her husband.

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time out

March 2024

Go. Play.

Explore.

brick builders The LEGO lover in your life won’t want to miss the Bricks Cascade, the biggest LEGO convention in the Northwest. There will be unique builds on display, plus, create something of your own at the creation station. Be sure to peruse custom items and vintage LEGO sets, too. Saturday and Sunday, March 2324. Oregon Convention Center. Admission is $16 per person (or $15 per person for a family of four). Visit brickscascade.com. — Tiffany Hill

go green

keep score The talented musicians of the Oregon Symphony deftly blend astounding tunes for the littlest sport fans. Musical Olympics, part of the Music for Families Series, features John Williams’ Olympic Fanfare, Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony and more. Sunday, March 3, 2 pm. Tickets start at $12.

Visit orsymphony.org/concerts-tickets. — T.H.

RYAN BE THK E

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Is it really a holiday if there’s no parade? Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the annual Portland St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The festivities are held in Northeast near the Beverly Cleary School on 33rd Avenue on Sunday, March 17, 1 pm. Visit portlandstpaddysparade.com. For families in Southeast, there’s the Sellwood-Moreland St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 16.

The parade starts at noon at St. Agatha’s Catholic School at SE Nehalem and SE 15th Avenue, then heads to Tacoma, 13th, Bybee and 17th, ending back at St. Agatha’s where there will be a festival (noon-4 pm), carnival games (12:30-3 pm), music, Irish dancers, 10 food carts, and a beer garden for grown-ups. The All-Ireland Cultural Society of Oregon is celebrating in a big way, too, during the 83rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration. This family-friendly festival has Irish dancers, Celtic bagpipes, traditional foods and kids activities.

Sunday, March 17, 2-7 pm; $12 for adults, $6 for students and kids 11 and younger are free. Visit oregonirishsociety.org.

If your idea of celebrating St. Paddy’s Day is more about participation, join in the Shamrock Run Portland. The race weaves through downtown and features racing distances from a half marathon to the Leprechaun Lap, a 1K (0.6 miles) option for runners ages 10 and younger.

Visit portlandshamrockrun.com to register. — T.H.

C AMP NAMANU

JAMES RIT ZMAN

a look back Head to the Oregon Historical Society to see the exhibit Camp Namanu, A 100 Year Journey Toward Inclusion. The legendary sleepaway camp put together an exhibit that not only looks at the long history of the camp, but examines its harmful legacy of cultural appropriation with a clear eye on the necessary work being done to make the camp more accessible and inclusive for all. Exhibit runs now through June 4. Oregon Historical Society, 1200 SW Park Ave., ohs.org. — Denise Castañon

awfully fun Gather the family for one of Portland’s iconic annual bike rides: The Worst Day of the Year Ride. Celebrating 20 years, there are city-wide routes to choose from; an uphill ride challenge; and a costume contest. Warm soup, live music, covered outdoor seating and a marketplace await riders at Lucky Labrador Brew Pub on SE 9th Avenue. Registration is $29.95; kids ages 15 and under ride for free. Visit orbike.com/wdyr. — T.H.

OR BIK E

revved up Truck lovers of all ages will be enthralled as skilled driver-athletes wield 12,000-pound monster trucks in competitions of speed and skill at Monster Jam. Pro tip: It gets noisy! Bring ear protection for the kiddos. Friday-Sunday, March 1-3. Moda Center. Tickets start at $25; purchase at ticketmaster.com. — D.C.

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

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

FELD ENTERTAINMENT

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time out

the hunt is on Who says kids get to have all the fun when it comes to egg hunts? Not Bella Organic Farm. At their 4th annual Easter Egg Hunt, parents can participate in their own 21 and older egg hunt. Bella Organic will host 17 different egg hunts for various age groups over two days! There’s even an allergy-friendly egg hunt for kids 13 and younger. Be sure to reserve your tickets online and keep in mind that the event is cash-only. Saturday-Sunday, March 30-31.

Bellaorganic.com/annual-easter-egg-hunt-at-bellap-organic-farm.

Triskelee Farm’s Spring on the Farm event includes an egg hunt, photo with the Easter Bunny, and a kids’ craft.

(Kids can hunt for empty eggs at any time during their visit and then exchange them for prizes and candy.) If baby animals make your kids squeal, add on a farm tour at 10 am or 1 pm to see Triskelee’s mama sheep and lambs. Food and drinks for purchase as well. Saturdays and Sundays, March 16-30, 10 am-3 pm. Triskelee Farm, 9700 SW Mountain Rd., West Linn. Triskeleefarm.com.

BELL A ORGANIC FAR M

Want someone else to pack your kid’s Easter basket?

Order a Helmet Easter basket from Randall Children’s Hospital. Bonus: You’ll be keeping your kiddos safe with a new helmet when they bike, scooter and skateboard as the weather warms up. (Safety information, toys and candy are included in the basket as well.) Toddler through adult sizes available. $20 each. Preorder through March 15 here: forms.office.com/r/Dz87eJtKix. Pick up WednesdayFriday, March 20-22, cash only payment at time of pick up.

let’s hear it for the girl Celebrate Hina Matsuri or the Doll Festival at the Portland Japanese Garden. The festival marks a special time to pray for the happiness and prosperity of girls in one’s life. Traditional dolls — representing the Emperor, Empress and the Imperial Court — will be on display, plus storytelling, music and a family-friendly ikebana (the Japanese art of flower arranging) workshop. Sunday, March 3. Visit japanesegarden. org/pjgevents. — T.H.

Head to LEKA PLayland for their popular indoor Easter Egg Hunt. It’s perfect for kids 5 and younger. In addition to exchanging eggs for gift bags, the littles can romp for one and a half hours of play time and will get to meet the adorable Peter Rabbit-styled Easter bunny. Pro tip: Buy tickets ASAP, LEKA events sell out quickly! ThursdaySunday, March 28-31. LEKA Playland, 7405 SW Tech Center Dr., Suite 120, Tigard. $30 per child ticket includes two adult admissions. Leka-playland-inc.square.site. — D.C.

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DENISE C ASTAÑON

petal power Snap a colorful photo of your kids frolicking through rows and rows of gorgeous tulips at the Wooden Shoe TulipFest. Tickets available online only. Admission includes: parking, walking access through tulip fields, children’s play area, shuttle to and from fields, access to Wooden Shoe Gardens and more. Friday, March 22 to Sunday, May 5. 33814 S Meridian Rd., Woodburn. Find out more at woodenshoe.com. — D.C.

OPEN HOUSE

Expanding Minds, Nurturing Spirits, Stewarding the Earth

Visit

www.FMES.org to schedule a

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Our Children’s House Program nurtures your child’s intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and social development through a beautifully prepared environment, experiential education, and cultivating a safe, respectful climate for independent choice.

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www.FMES.org | 503-760-8220 | Portland, Oregon 97236-2316 pdxparent.com

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OPEN HOUSE

We are a new SE Portland Preschool that integrates a Buddhist Worldview, Montessori Pedagogy with a strong connection to Nature. We support the development of the Good Heart and the potential of all beings in a community of care, love, and respect.

www.tara-school.org email: info@tara-school.org 503-345-1128 @taraschoolpdx

Portland Village School

Accepting Applications for 2024-2025

Your Tuition-Free, K-8, Public Waldorf School Educating and nurturing the whole child - head, heart, and hands

INFO SESSIONS 6-7pm: March 19 April 16, and May 21

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Schedule a tour today! admissions@renpdx.org 971.221.2311

renpdx.org 234 S. Bancroft Street, Por tland 78

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Weighted enrollment lottery applications for . the 2024-2025 school year due April 3rd Our curriculum is arts-integrated with Common Core State Standard academic content, enlivened by music, art, drama, Spanish language, handwork, movement, and life skills.

Moving to our forever home by fall 2024!

4650 S Macadam Ave

www.portlandvillageschool.org 7654 N Delaware Ave, Portland, OR, 97217

503-445-0056

Based on the books by Arnold Lobel Book & Lyrics by Willie Reale Music by Robert Reale Most enjoyed by ages 4 and up

SHOWS AT 1000 SW BROADWAY, T-100 DOWNTOWN PORTLAND

APRIL 6-28 • 11 AM & 2:30 PM TICKETS ACCESS PROGRAMMING 4/14 11:00AM

4/20 2:30PM

4/21 2:30PM

4/27 2:30PM

NWCTS.ORG 503-222-2190

| March 2024 79 Illustration © 2024 Lea Zawada

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