Portland Parent Magazine November+December 2019

November+December 2019

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ONLY IB SCHOOL IN PORTLAND

DISCOVER why i m m e r si o n i s s o m u ch mo re than learning a n other la n g u age.

O P E N H O U S E N O V. 7 T H A N D 13 T H

fo r P r e sch o o l t h ro u g h 8t h G ra d e

J o i n u s at o u r o p e n h o u s e s . S e e o u r a d o n pag e XX f o r m o r e i n f o r m at i o n .

Think globally and learn locally!

Creating and Inspiring Champions of Sustainable Forestry

Visit www.worldforestry.org

November+December 2019

contents

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Real Estate Insight: 9 Tips for Buying a Vacation Home, and Real Estate Superstitions

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FAMILY FUN GUIDE

More Joy, Less Stress: 10 Ways to Simplify the Season Language Immersion: So Much More than Learning Another Language 5 Benefits of Hands-on Learning in a Tech-Crazed World: Help your child learn more effectively Stop Doing Everything for Your Kids: Set Your Children on the Path to Independence Enrolling Your Children in Language Immersion: From One American Parent to Another

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8 Tricks to a Trouble-free Thanksgiving with Kids: Avoid the most common pitfalls that can thwart a tranquil Thanksgiving

Spark up some lively conversation with your kids. Take the FamilyChatter Challenge.

FAMILY BUILDERS

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Family Chatter ���������������������������������������������������������������������28 That’s Good to Know! �������������������������������������������������������30 Show Her You Care, Show Him You Care ��������31-32 Teach Your Kids Something New! �������������������������������34 Snacks—Recipes for Tasty Get-togethers ��������������36 Crafts—Get Creative with Your Kids ��������������������������40 Book Reviews and Activities ������������������������������������������ 41

Teen Talk Helpful Advice from One Teen to Another

Get to know the people, places, and things that make the Emerald Coast special!

Seasonal �������������������������������������������������������������������������������44 The Arts ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������46 Runs, Walks, & More ��������������������������������������������������������� 47 Sounds Fun ��������������������������������������������������������������������������48 Reoccurring Local ��������������������������������������������������������������49

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10 W AYS TO SIMP LIFY THE SEAS ON

By Janeen Lewis

MORE JOY, LESS STRESS It’s supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, full of friends, family and festivities. But research confirms a different reality—most Americans have elevated stress levels during the holiday season. Instead of being full of good tidings and cheer, families often feel drained of time, energy and peace. Stressors such as crowds and lines, party planning, financial concerns, and trying to make the holidays perfect can make the end of the year hectic and overwhelming. These ten tips will simplify the season and make it merry and bright.

1. Focus on your reason for the season.

Why are you celebrating? Is it for spiritual reasons? Maybe you want to spend time with friends and family or enjoy the spirit of giving during the holidays. Keep what is most important about the holidays at the center of your celebration. Reconsider any task or commitment that takes your time, energy, enjoyment or finances away from your reason for celebrating in the first place.

Reconsider any task or commitment that takes your time, energy, enjoyment or finances away from your reason for celebrating in the first place.

2. Set firm boundaries around your time.

With all the holiday volunteering, office parties, and family gatherings, it’s easy to overcommit yourself. This year, pick one project you want to volunteer your time to, or pick a variety of simple acts of kindness you can do with your family. Spend time with your friends and loved ones, but don’t feel guilty if you don’t go to every party or gathering.

3. Let go of Martha.

One of the most stress-relieving things you can do at the holidays is set the bar a little lower. Martha Stewart is an elegant hostess, but Continued on page 6

Continued from page 5

you don’t have to do everything the way Martha would to have a beautiful season. Embrace simpler decorations, meals, and gift giving than you have in the past. Try quick shortcuts or holiday hacks. If you let go of expectations, you may be pleasantly surprised to find yourself content with a celebration you hadn’t even envisioned.

time to clean the house? Hire a cleaning service just for the holiday season or ask for this service as a gift.

Buy desserts from your local bakery.

4. Farm out your to-do list.

At the beginning of the season make a to-do list of what you want to accomplish. If you find that it is too long for the amount of time that you have, consider delegating some of the items. If you contribute to a Christmas club at your bank, you might even consider setting aside some of the money specifically so you can hire others to help with your holiday tasks. Have groceries delivered, and buy gifts online to avoid the holiday rush. Grocery stores also have a plethora of pre-packaged holiday foods that make delicious sides, cutting down on your time in the kitchen. Buy desserts from your local bakery, and shop at stores that provide wrapping stations. No

5. Gift others with experiences.

Shopping at the holidays can be time-consuming and nerve-wracking with crowds and traffic. If you don’t start early, coveted items sell out, leaving you scrambling for another gift. Ask those you give gifts to if there is an experience they would like to have. Tickets to the theatre? Family passes to an amusement park or aquarium?

A relaxing day at the spa? Experiences give friends and family the opportunity to make memories and pamper themselves—unique gifts that are much appreciated.

SHE SNORES MORE THAN I DO, BUT I STILL LOVE MY HUMAN. — BANDIT adopted 11-26-09

6. Set a holiday tea time.

Recent research shows that drinking green and black tea has many health benefits, including promoting relaxation. Herbal teas, while not true tea, still help with anxiety and stress. In keeping with the holiday spirit, sip some calming peppermint tea, or try chamomile, lemon balm, or passionflower.

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25 7. Do something kind for someone else.

You don’t have to overcommit yourself to a charity or fundraiser to be kind. Small random acts of kindness can make someone’s day.

Let someone in front of you at the supermarket line, or let someone drive their car in front of yours in the parking lot. Send an anonymous Christmas card with cash or a gift card to a college student or elderly person who you know is struggling financially. Throw change in Salvation Army buckets when you pass them. Having a kind spirit chases away stress and keeps the season warm and hope filled.

8. Take a hike.

One way to tell your stress to take a hike might be to actually take one yourself. When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins that trigger a happier, more relaxed mood. Aerobic exercise outdoors away from screens, phones, and to-do lists can clear your mind and help you keep what’s important in perspective.

10. Celebrate memories more than material possessions.

9. Reconnect with long-lost friends and relatives.

Meet with an old friend you haven’t talked to for years, and catch up.

Take some time off and visit relatives you miss seeing on a regular basis. Surrounding yourself with people you enjoy is powerful when you want to combat holiday stress.

Material gifts are nice, but most of us quickly forget gifts we have received in past years. The things that we remember the most are the memories we make with friends and family. Make some happy memories this holiday season and bid stress goodbye.

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ItsYourMagazine.com • Portland Parent Magazine • November+December 2019 • 7

LANGUAGE IMMERSION So Much More than Learning Another Language If you’ve been exploring your options for preschool or kindergarten, you’ve probably come across language immersion and thought, This is interesting, but I’m not sure if it’s right for us. Why should we consider this over more traditional public/private schools, or more familiar options like Montessori?

CATHERINE COHEN Lower School Division Head French American International School

To help you make a more informed decision, we reached out to Catherine Cohen, Lower School Division Head at the French American International School (FAIS), a preschool to eighth grade independent school in NW Portland.

FAIS is the longest-established language immersion school in Portland, founded in 1979. Preschool to fifth grade (starting with an early preschool for 2½-year-olds) is taught in a French immersion setting. The middle school offers one curriculum delivered in five languages: multiple immersion tracks (French, German, Mandarin, and Spanish), as well as an English-focused track with a beginning language.

What is language immersion?

I often say that immersion is learning another language without knowing it. But I was pleased to find some research to corroborate my statement.

“Unlike the prefrontal cortex of the adult, that of the child is often not centered on the task at hand,” says Thompson-Schill (University of Pennsylvania). “Young children learn differently from adults, . . . which makes them prodigious language learners.”

They “could benefit more from informal and unsupervised learning,” which is naturally provided by our immersion setting where we play, sing, research, and interact in another language.

If you add to this the children’s natural curiosity in our inquirybased environment, with an amazing outdoor surrounding where they are connected to nature, you can see how they can learn another language without knowing it!

Why should families consider immersion for their children?

Beyond the academic benefits, language immersion also enhances a number of cognitive, creative, and social abilities: from focus, critical thinking, and problem solving to open-mindedness, empathy, and interpersonal skills.

By establishing this foundation as early as 2½ years old in our Lower School (French immersion) and building upon it in our Middle School (multiple language tracks), FAIS develops global citizens with core values to better understand and navigate the world around them.

At a time when information is shared worldwide in seconds in all languages—where speaking another language means more opportunities in the professional world—teaching an additional language (with its lifelong benefits) becomes strategic in our society.

What are the long-term benefits of learning in an immersion setting?

Numerous studies are conclusive: learning one or several languages promotes cognitive, social, and professional development.

Learning languages improves the students’ mental flexibility, adaptability, and creativity. The students develop a selective attention, which in turn leads to better concentration. Bilingual or multilingual students develop early reflection, metacognition, metalinguistic awareness, and improve their executive functioning skills, including their working memory.

These students are also better at multitasking and problem solving. These are lifelong advantages.

8 • November+December 2019 • Portland Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Bi/multilingualism has positive effects on the students’ selfesteem, relationships, and school success. Constantly looking at different perspectives fosters more empathy and respect for others. Students grow up with intercultural competencies and a mind that is open to the world. They aspire to become responsible and committed citizens.

How does language immersion work at FAIS? Language immersion is more than learning an additional language at FAIS. It uses language as a lens for understanding other cultures, and the International Baccalaureate (IB) as a framework for teaching. Our Lower School follows the IB Primary Years Programme in a French immersion setting, and our Middle School (our new building opened this past September) follows the IB Middle Years Programme with one curriculum delivered in five languages: English, French, German, Mandarin, and Spanish.

It is an inquiry-based educational model, where we, lifelong learners, foster a stronger sense of community, providing students with a global perspective through which (as the IB mission articulates) “other people, with their differences, can also be right.”

Should parents be worried about their child falling behind in English or Math?

Bilingualism helps children build problem-solving skills and math ability. Moreover, it develops early reflection and metalinguistic awareness. Researchers in the past two decades have really changed the way we think of bilingualism. Both languages benefit from the high level of cognitive control.

Do families need to speak French before coming to FAIS? Not at all. Only 10% of our families speak French prior to joining our community. It is more about how France excels in early education, and the enhanced cognitive, creative, and social skills that come from language immersion.

But the added benefit is that you will have someone who will be able to help you order une soupe à l’oignon gratinée, or a soufflé au chocolat in France in the near future!

From all of us at Portland Parent, a big thank-you and merci to Catherine Cohen for joining us! v

Want to learn more about immersion at FAIS?

JOIN ONE OF THEIR OPEN HOUSES OR SCHEDULE A TOUR.

5 Benefits of

Hands-on Learning in a Tech-Crazed World

By Sandi Schwartz

Kids today are spending an exorbitant amount of time glued to their electronics. A survey published by Common Sense Media found that nearly all children aged 8 and under live in a home with some type of mobile device and spend an average of 2.25 hours a day on screens. This media time only increases with age—tweens use an average of 6 hours, not including time spent using media for school and homework, and teens are up to an average of 9 hours daily.

Interestingly, when children are physically engaged in an activity, they process the information differently and learn more effectively.

Being tied to phones, tablets, and computers takes away from handson learning time, which is unfortunate since these types of experiences provide so many critical benefits to children as they grow and develop. As media becomes the go-to teaching tool in classrooms, it is imperative that we find fun and creative ways for kids to experience more hands-on, interactive learning opportunities at home.

First, let’s dive into five key benefits of hands-on educational experiences for children.

Enhances Learning

When children are primarily learning by reading, listening, and watching, they miss out on a key component of the educational experience that can only happen by doing. Kids of all ages thrive when they are provided with interactive, engaging, meaningful educational experiences. According to Brookings Institution, students who are engaged in hands-on learning are much more likely to remember what they were taught.

Interestingly, when children are physically engaged in an activity, they process the information differently and learn more effectively.

Simply reading about a concept in a textbook or watching a demonstration in class is just not the same as physically experiencing what you are learning about. A research study from the University of Chicago measured this concept using brain scans and found that students who engaged in a hands-on approach to learning scientific concepts were more activated in the sensory and motor-related parts of their brain. This also led to better quiz scores.

Stimulates Curiosity

When children are part of something so fascinating that it fills them with awe, like a science experiment or art project, they get excited about it and want to learn more. Hands-on experiences like these can spur curiosity in children, which is so critical to their growth and success. Even though their constant questions may be exhausting for us at times, their curiosity is exactly what we want to see from

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them so that they continue to crave and seek out new knowledge.

“One of our most important jobs as parents is to nurture kids’ innate curiosity. Not only is curiosity linked to academic achievement, it is tied to happiness in the long-term as well,” says Sandy Polu, PhD, founder of plumsparkkids.com, a creative learning subscription box for kids. “The key is to encourage curiosity in a way that is relevant and appropriate for the child.”

Improves Social Interaction

Part of the problem with all of this technology is that kids are losing the ability to communicate and interact with others in person. When they hide behind their devices instead of talking face to face with their friends and family, they miss out on a major chance for emotional connection. According to Psychology Today, this kind of communication interferes with actual conversation and undermines our ability to connect with others. As children are constantly exposed to these

quick and impersonal ways of expressing themselves, they miss out on learning how to accurately convey their thoughts and feelings.

When we engage our children in fun hands-on activities, it opens a whole new world to them in which they need to ask questions, explain directions, and talk to others about the project. These projects also provide a special bonding time for parents and children or siblings to take on a challenge and work together. Whether it’s baking in the kitchen, working on a garden, or conducting a science experiment, kids will learn so many important social skills from the experience. These types of projects are also a great opportunity to invite over some neighbors or friends for a playdate so that the kids can work on a creative project together instead of staring at screens.

Expands Creativity

It’s one thing to observe art in a museum or watch a building being constructed in a video, but it’s another thing for kids to actually create masterpieces with their own hands. These types of activities allow children to tap into their own creativity and explore as they Continued on page 24 ItsYourMagazine.com • Portland Parent Magazine • November+December 2019 • 11

By Sandi Schwartz

STOP DOING EVERYTHING

for Your Kids: Set Your Children on the Path to Independence 12 • November+December 2019 • Portland Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Imagine spending all this time and energy raising your kids and then when you send them off to college someday, you still have to call to wake them up every morning to make sure they get to class on time. Sounds shocking, right?

When I was in college twenty years ago, I can recall going multiple days, maybe even up to a couple of weeks, without communicating with my parents. Sure, this was before cell phones, text messaging, and Facebook, but it just wasn’t necessary to talk to my parents that often. They gave me plenty of freedom to live my own life and to explore and grow during those incredible years as I blossomed into an independent adult. Somehow, I figured out how to register for classes, study, eat, do laundry, meet new friends, get over breakups, and handle bad grades all on my own.

Nowadays high school graduates enter college as children, incapable of taking care of themselves. According to Julie LythcottHaims, author of How to Raise an Adult, overparenting and prolonged childhood are an epidemic in this country. As the Dean of Freshman at Stanford University for 10 years (one of best universities in the world), Julie Lythcott-Haims witnessed firsthand some disturbing trends of college students. Although they were more successful on paper than ever before, with pages of accolades such as awards, high test scores, leadership roles, varsity letters, overseas experiences, unique community service projects, etc., these students were also less familiar with who they were and their own goals and dreams.

So many of them appeared to be robot-like, blindly following the directions of their parents to participate in certain activities and take classes that would land them acceptance letters from the finest institutions possible.

So many of them appeared to be robot-like, blindly following the directions of their parents to participate in certain activities and take classes that would land them acceptance letters from the finest institutions possible.

She also noticed that these kids couldn’t do much for themselves and still relied on Mom and Dad to help them. They were constantly on the phone with their parents asking for advice and requesting that they take care of basic tasks, such as registering them for classes, sending them special packages, advising them on their homework, and even contacting professors if they did not receive the perfect grade.

How on earth will these young adults ever hold a job and function in the real world if they can’t take care of themselves during college?

We hear a lot about how millennials are difficult to work with in the job market—self-entitled, narcissistic, lazy, and tough to manage.

Lythcott-Haims makes it very clear: we have no one to blame but ourselves. The patterns that lead to this detrimental behavior start right now, even if your kids are in kindergarten. Are you one of these types of parents? view the world as unsafe, • Overprotective: You scary, and unpredictable, so you do everything possible to protect your children instead of preparing them to learn how to handle life’s challenges themselves. parent: You provide fierce direction to your • Tiger kids, telling them that you know what’s best for them to achieve success in this world. hand-holder: You do everything for • Excessive your kids to make life as pleasant as possible for them. You are their concierge, chauffeur, handler, scheduler, and secretary.

These helicopter parenting styles are impeding our children. So many parents today feel like their kids can’t be successful without them helping at every turn and hovering over them. They spend so much time planning, protecting, directing, and nagging that they are ultimately stunting their children’s growth. We are taking away the ability for our children to learn self-efficacy, says Lythcott-Haims.

This incredibly important skill is a fundamental aspect of the human psyche. It is when individuals realize that their own actions lead to outcomes, that they have the power to direct their own lives. “If our children are to build self-efficacy, then they need to do more of the thinking, planning, deciding, hoping, coping, trial and error, dreaming, and experiencing life for themselves. We may ensure some short-term goals by over-helping, but it comes as a long-term cost to their sense of self. We should be more concerned that they have the habits, skillset, mindset, and wellness to be successful no matter what their future holds,” she announces.

This is worrisome because we all want our children to be able to function without us, to fulfill their dreams and live happy, healthy, successful lives. Listening to her presentation really opened my eyes. So, how can we stop doing everything for our kids? Here are some steps to get started on this whole new parenting perspective.

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ItsYourMagazine.com • Portland Parent Magazine • November+December 2019 • 13

Continued from page 13

Stop Making Everything About You Many parents try to live through their children because they are unsatisfied with their own childhood. They may even refer to their child’s grades and activities as “ours.” Learn to separate what’s yours from what’s theirs. We also have to stop trying to mold our kids into something they are not. We will all be much better off if we love our children for who they are and support them.

Teach Them New Skills The only way our children will learn to do things for themselves is if we provide opportunities for them to learn new skills. This starts during pre-school when we ask our children to dress themselves and use a fork properly. With each new year, there are so many chances to help develop their skillset. The best way to teach our kids a new skill is to: (1) do it for them, (2) do it with them, (3) watch them do it on their own, and (4) let them do it on their own. Wouldn’t you rather gradually teach your kids and not have to cram everything in on the way to college move-in day?

Let Them Fend for Themselves and Learn from Their Mistakes It is so important that our children learn how to speak up for themselves and communicate with authority figures and peers alike. We have to stop trying to clean up all their messes for them and protect

them from failure. The only way they will grow is if they make mistakes and learn how to handle them.

Give Your Kids Experiences Even if it is totally out of your comfort zone, try to let your kids experience activities without you that will help them build selfconfidence and independence. Sleepovers, all-day sports or other competitions, camping trips, and sleep-away camp are some good examples. Last summer my son went off to sleep-away camp for four weeks, and it was very difficult for me. I cried for days worrying about him. But you know what? When I saw him on visiting day, I was blown away by how happy he was and how mature he acted. I was petrified that he would pick up bad habits and become a rotten kid, but the opposite happened—he became an even more amazing version of himself.

By adjusting some of our parenting techniques now, we can better prepare our kids for a successful life ahead of them. v

Sandi Schwartz is a freelance writer/blogger and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. You can find her at www.happysciencemom.com and www.sandischwartz.com.

Get her free course on raising happy, balanced kids at bit.ly/2i53TDV.

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Enrolling Your Children in Language Immersion

From One American Parent to Another

I am an American! I am free. I speak English. I have all of the first-world technology and running water and—I am not sure what else that means… Well, we tend to do better at the Olympics. I guess we have more grocery stores full of food, and cars on the road. I think the main point in being so patriotic and proud is that we are a free society to choose and make decisions for our own lives with seemingly unlimited opportunities for growth to do and become whatever we want!

My family has chosen to wear some designer clothes from Italy, eaten foods from China, enjoyed a glass of wine from France, celebrated birthdays with pinatas from Mexico, just recently enjoyed the festivities at Oktoberfest from Germany. And that’s when it hit me: we Americans love other countries and cultures! What else was my family missing? What other fabulous cultural, educational, innovative and potential experiences was my family, my country, missing by not embracing the other countries in the world? I believe part of our greatness has become the blending of the many immigrants from all over the world who came to America and have shared their traditions of music, food, fashion, style, and more.

As I looked at my young children, I realized that it would be very important for them to also learn another language other than the English language that I have taught them. It finally made sense to me: the only way to share all of these other great things that we have come to love and appreciate is by communicating and being able to learn from each other. The only way this is possible is if people decide

(choose) to learn another language other than their own. So, that’s just what we did; we enrolled them in a language immersion school.

This is where your English-speaking student goes to a school where all of the subjects are taught in the language you have chosen for them to learn. The whole day they hear nothing but that language.

It is as if they have traveled to that country each weekday for seven hours. Of course your primary language could be anything, not just English. I had so many concerns: Will they understand what is going on? How will they be able to communicate with the teacher, staff, or other students? Will they get frustrated? Will they really learn this other language? And worse, will they lose or struggle with English?

I also struggled with the stereotype that it was un-American to have them learn another language, that everyone in America should just assimilate with our language of English. The more I thought about it, the more I realized how silly that was. Learning another language isn’t negative or compromising; rather, it is the most capitalistic thing I could do for my children. It is giving them

ItsYourMagazine.com • Portland Parent Magazine • November+December 2019 • 15

8 TRICKS TO A TROUBLE-FREE THANKSGIVING WITH KIDS

By Shannon Dean

According to several polls, Thanksgiving is the world’s second favorite holiday, right behind Christmas.

Many of us love the holiday so much that we romanticize it and then set the bar very high. Understandably, we want our kids to experience warm holiday traditions that they will pass on to their own families.

So we envision a sumptuous meal, a beautiful table, and loving conversation. Unfortunately, reality may fall short of expectations. Kids may melt down. Your covered dish may be a disaster. Disappointment may creep into the day. Although it sometimes seems impossible to have a perfect Thanksgiving Day with children, perfection is not required for a happy, memorable holiday. Below are tips to avoid the most common pitfalls that can thwart a tranquil Thanksgiving.

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Use Politeness to Downplay Picky Eating.

Thanksgiving often centers around a formal meal that requires a significant amount of work. Many parents worry about offending the chef when a kid rejects a world-famous dish. Politeness is key.

If your children are young, try to introduce Thanksgiving staples before November. Make sure they understand the importance of keeping negative comments about the food to themselves, saying please and thank you, and attempting polite conversation. Most of the time, guests won’t notice that your picky eater only has a roll and macaroni and cheese on his plate as long as he’s pleasant.

Don’t be shy about providing dishes you know your children enjoy.

Make sure they understand the importance of keeping negative comments about the food to themselves.

Keep Kids Busy. Many experts suggest involving kids in

Thanksgiving preparation or giving them age-appropriate activities to keep them busy. Let them make placemats, set the table, or complete a Thanksgiving Day project. It’s unrealistic to expect them to remain seated and in good spirits for extended periods without an outlet. Try to find time to take a walk, throw a ball, or play a game to blow off steam. Invite others to join you so that you can talk and bond while the kids are playing.

Lower Expectations. We often inform our kids about what to expect but we don’t set our own intentions. Dr. Daisy

Sutherland, author of 21 Ways to Enjoy a Stress-Free Holiday Season, says it’s very important “to remember that a great deal of the stress we feel at the holidays is of our creation.” In truth, very few of us have a Thanksgiving like those portrayed on commercials or in magazines. But by embracing imperfection, we can still have a wonderful holiday. Focus on what you value the most and let the rest go. Roll with the unexpected and watch your enjoyment increase and your stress decrease.

Disarm Dysfunction. Your kids may be on their best

behavior but other guests may have forgotten their manners. Do your best to shake off any drama. You have no control over the behavior of others, but you can control your own reaction. Try to remember that your goal is to connect with family, so respond with kindness and deflection. Your kids are learning how to diffuse tension by watching you, so teach them to look at the big picture rather than overreacting to small annoyances. Losing your cool on a holiday that focuses on gratitude isn’t worth it.

Be Proud of Your Parenting. A recent survey out of the University of Michigan found that nearly two-thirds of mothers felt criticized for their parenting, with the most concerns coming from family. On a day that brings many generations together, you may receive unsolicited parenting advice. Try to remember that the concerned family member is probably trying to gain involvement in your child’s life, however awkwardly. Because you may only see this person on special occasions, be careful that your response doesn’t divide a family already separated by physical distance. Alissa Marquess, author of Bounce Back Parenting: A Field Guide for Creating Connection, Not Perfection, suggests a quick, light response like, “Thanks, I’ll keep that in mind.” This restraint honors your love for the other person but makes it clear that you don’t intend to debate your choices. Know you are doing a great job, and change the subject to something more pleasant.

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LANGUAGE IMMERSION │ INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) │ PRESCHOOL - 8th GRADE Do you want your child to develop a deeper understanding of other cultures and the broader world around us?

Discover why immersion is so much more than learning a language... and how your child would flourish in our community of inquisitive learners, open-minded thinkers, and confident problem-solvers.

“Our daughter has loved every minute. Her teachers have been incredible in inspiring her to love learning, embrace her curiosity, and develop great friendships. As parents, what more could we ask for!”

- Ben G, preschool parent

JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE LOWER SCHOOL (Preschool-5th grade, French immersion) Wednesday, November 13, 9 am MIDDLE SCHOOL NEW BUILDING NOW OPEN! (6th-8th grade, multiple language tracks) Thursday, November 7, 6:30 pm RSVPs appreciated

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a competitive advantage! They could be more skilled, make more money, make more deals with others, because they could communicate with them. They could get more scholarships, they could get better jobs, they could travel around the world for free in many cases, and they could be an advantage to their own country by being able to communicate with foreign dignitaries. While all of these possibilities excited me, I was also reminded of the humanitarian benefits that this could bring. Just think of all the people they will now be able to speak to when a tragedy occurs or when somebody is injured or lost. If somebody needs medical treatment or just a friend to talk to, they can now be heroes.

It was amazing to watch; they sang songs, read books, followed instructions, even recited the Pledge of Allegiance in this new language.

It was amazing to watch; they sang songs, read books, followed instructions, even recited the Pledge of Allegiance in this new language. I marveled as they easily had conversations with their teachers and friends. Watching them do this with their teachers made me so proud. Watching them do this with their siblings made me so scared! Now they could plot without my knowing how to sneak the

cookies, or worse, out of the house when they were teens! As the first few years went by and they were speaking and comprehending with ease, all of the fears I had started to fade away—until I made the dreaded parent mistake: I asked them to translate something for me. I said, “Hey, tell your grandma how to say ‘I love you’ in this new language.” I was all excited to show them off to my parents, to say to them, “See what a great decision I made? See how smart they are?” But my kids looked at me with blank stares, like they had no idea what I had just said. For a moment I thought they had forgotten how to speak English—or worse, that this whole thing doesn’t work. How could they speak so easily with the teacher but not seem to know how to tell their family?

I asked the teacher the next day and they explained to me to imagine a railroad track, two rails side by side but not touching. That’s how the students are learning the language: as two separate tracks not touching. My response was swift and ignorant as I blurted out, “How will they ever translate then?” Calmly they had me imagine my train tracks again and then told me to look as far down the tracks as I could. What could I see? I said, “They blend into one track.” As those words came out of my mouth, I realized I had just been Miagi-ed (wax on, wax off). Translation comes later as they mature and get a firm grasp of each language.

In college now, they are able to speak fluently. As the world has become so global, it is waiting for them to accomplish whatever they want. They are better prepared than their peers and have a clear advantage. I couldn’t be happier that many years ago we made that scary but correct decision to enroll them in a language immersion school! v

Continued from page 17

Focus on Family. No matter what the day brings, being

with those we love can be a rare blessing. It’s not every day that everyone is together at the same table, so pause and take it in. Sure, parts of the day may bring challenges. But take a step back from all of the work and juggling to see the day for what it is: an opportunity to see the people we value the most, some of whom may not live close by. Now is the time to share, catch up, and enjoy one another—warts and all.

Give Back. Whether you deliver a pie to a neighbor, invite another family to dinner, rake leaves at a community center, or volunteer at a local shelter, do something nice for someone else as a family. The act of giving during the holiday season is likely to increase your own family’s genuine joy.

Cap It Off with Gratitude. After most of the activities have died down, talk to your child about gratitude, and

remind him that the purpose of Thanksgiving is to count one’s blessings with those we love. Ask him to list a few things he is most grateful for and share some of your own to stress the true meaning of Thanksgiving.

Your table may not look like Martha Stewart’s, and your kids may shun the cranberry sauce, but that’s perfectly fine. Perhaps we put so much pressure on Thanksgiving because we want to re-create the nostalgia we’ve carried from childhood. The good news is that our kids will have similar special memories, and we only need to relax and let it happen. We may not remember every table setting or dish from our childhood Thanksgiving, but we remember the love and the warmth. So will our kids. v

Shannon Dean is the mother of two. Following her son’s birth, five generations of family gathered at the Thanksgiving table.

©2019 ALSAC/St. ©2019 ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Jude Children’s Research Hospital Research(BAM773) Hospital (BAM773)

St. Jude patient Keeton, blood cancer pictured with his mom St. Jude patient Keeton, blood cancer pictured with his mom

Keeton’s family didn’t give up. We won’t either.

Keeton’s family didn’t give up. We won’t either.

When Keeton was found to have blood cancer, his family was referred to St. Jude for treatment, where he’s undergoing two-and-a-half years When Keeton was found to have blood cancer, his family was referred to of chemotherapy. “St. Jude means everything to me,” said Keeton’s mom.

St. Jude for treatment, where he’s undergoing two-and-a-half years “They’re saving my baby’s life.” Treatments invented at St. Jude of chemotherapy. “St. Jude means everything to me,” said Keeton’s mom. have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from “They’re saving my baby’s life.” Treatments invented at St. Jude 20% to more than 80% since it first opened more than 50 years ago. have helped overall cancer survival rate from We won’t stoppush until the no child dieschildhood from cancer.

20% to more than 80% since it first opened more than 50 years ago.

We won’t stop until no child dies from cancer.

Learn more at stjude.org Learn more at stjude.org

R E A L

E S TAT E

I N S I G H T

9 Tips for Buying a Vacation Home I. Consider how you'll use the home.

Will it just be for family and friends, or do you plan to rent it as well? And realistically, how many times will you use it per year?

2. Evaluate locations.

Are there enough amenities and attractions to keep you and renters coming back year after year?

3.Talk to the locals.

What do they love about the area? What’s changing? And what is it like during the off season?

6. Talk to an accountant.

4. Study local laws.

This person can advise you on issues such as the tax implications of rental income and changes in federal tax laws that could impact deductions.

5. Calculate costs.

“I NEED 6 MONTHS OF VACATION,

If you plan to rent the home, local rules may restrict rental periods or cap the number of days you can rent each year.

Along with mortgage, insurance, property taxes, and association or amenities fees, plan for wear and tear. (A good rule of thumb: Budget 1.5 percent of the home’s value on repairs annually.) And if you intend to rent, add the cost of a property manager.

TWICE A YEAR!”

7. Test before you buy.

Once you’ve settled on a spot, you should rent in every season so you can gauge busy and slow times.

8. Work with an experienced realtor.

Pick someone who knows the community and who can recommend the other experts you’ll want to consult. Consider agents with Resort & Second Home Property Specialist certification (RSPS) as they have completed additional instruction to help homeowners like you.

9.Take your time.

Don’t let the excitement of one great vacation push you into an impulse decision to buy. v Sources: Bankrate.com, Money magazine, HGTV, biggerpockets.com 22 • November+December 2019 • Portland Parent Magazine

R E A L

E S TAT E

I N S I G H T

Do You Believe in Any of These Real Estate Superstitions?

Tons of people think the number 13 is unlucky. Some don’t. But pretty much everyone has at least heard that the number 13 is unlucky.

With Friday the 13th upon us, I thought it’d be fun and interesting to send along some superstitions we come across in the real estate industry, which you may have never heard about.

Mercury in retrograde

This is less cultural and more a matter of whether someone is into astrology. It is believed that when the planet Mercury is in retrograde (backward), it is a bad time to enter a contract. So, if a client is sensitive to this, there is a good chance there isn’t a deal good enough to get them to buy or sell a house while Mercury is in retrograde.

Smudging

Ever heard of smudging? That’s when you burn a sacred plant (often sage), and walk around the house wafting the smoke in order to get rid of negative energy in a house.

IF IT IS A CONCERN FOR MY CLIENT,

THEN IT IS A CONCERN FOR ME! Does that sound crazy? Sound like someone’s been smokin’ the smudge? As a real estate agent, I wouldn’t call it crazy. While an agent may not believe in a client’s superstition, or even understand it, they won’t consider it crazy. It’s a real estate agent’s responsibility to represent their clients’ best interests. So I wouldn’t consider any of the above examples (or anything else you could throw at me) crazy, because if it is a concern for my client, then it is a concern for me.v

Lucky numbers

Real estate agents sometimes find themselves working with clients who have superstitions based upon lucky (and unlucky) numbers.

This is often a cultural superstition. And the lucky or unlucky numbers are different from culture to culture.

This can affect whether or not someone will buy a house if the street address is an unlucky number—or even adds up to an unlucky number. It can also affect the specific dollar amount they will offer or accept for a house.

What direction a house faces

Does your house face east? If it does, that’s great—for some potential buyers.

But others may not see it that way and would never buy a house unless it faces south.

BUT OTHERS MAY NEVER BUY A

HOUSE UNLESS IT FACES SOUTH. Again, these superstitions are typically cultural, and no one direction is right for every culture. So, don’t worry what direction your house faces; there’s always someone who will be fine with whatever direction it is facing.

Portland Parent Magazine • November+December 2019 • 23

Continued from page 11

go. It gives them a direct sensory experience, which offers a more in-depth way of learning about a subject. It also provides a chance to stretch their imagination as much as possible.

Boosts Confidence

When a child has the opportunity to directly work on a project, such as a science experiment, from start to finish, they can feel a sense of accomplishment when they see the results. They then become empowered, which leads to more confidence when they face the next challenge. They also learn from their mistakes and failures, which only makes them more resilient in the future. If the experiment does not come out as planned, they will learn to ask why and make adjustments the next time they work on it. Finally, the encouragement they will get from accomplishing a hands-on project will increase their self-esteem, which will seep into all aspects of their life, such as sports, school work, and relationships.

Fun Hands-on Learning Ideas for Kids

There are a number of ways for us to share hands-on learning experiences with children of all ages.

Science experiments. Working on science experiments is one

of the best ways for kids to get excited about STEM in a hands-on manner. By working together on the experiments, your children will have the chance to get creative, follow directions, work with new science tools, challenge themselves to learn something new, and have fun being fascinated by science.

Polu believes that doing science experiments at home is a great way to demonstrate that science is all around us. “A good experiment shows kids that science is fundamentally about understanding the world we live in—whether it’s figuring out fun concepts like why milk chocolate melts in our hands or testing which sunblock works the best.”

Gardening. Working on a family garden together is another

great way for children to grab some hands-on learning. By getting their hands dirty—literally—they learn to appreciate nature, hard work, and where the food we eat comes from. Because they play a direct role in growing the fruits and vegetables that they see with their own eyes, touch with their own hands, and taste with their own mouths, they are filled with accomplishment and joy.

Arts and Crafts. Art projects are one of the easiest ways for

children to experience tactile learning. Yes, they can color on an iPad by swiping their finger from side to side, but that does not compare to actually holding a crayon in their hands and using different types of pressure to transfer colors onto the paper. Arts and crafts help stimulate a child’s creativity and imagination that can’t be replicated by any electronic program.

Baking/Cooking. Inviting the kids into the kitchen to help

cook a meal or bake some treats can be a wonderful hands-on learning experience for them. Preparing a meal involves choosing a recipe, following directions, tracking time, measuring, and even working on simple math equations. Kids also have the chance to touch and feel the different ingredients. Although there are apps for baking cookies and making ice cream sundaes, nothing beats whipping up a delicious treat with your own hands! v

Sandi Schwartz is a freelance writer/blogger and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. You can find her at www.happysciencemom.com and www.sandischwartz.com.

Get her free course on raising happy, balanced kids at bit.ly/2i53TDV.

24 • November+December 2019 • Portland Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

10 HOLIDAY HACKS TO

Want to retire like a champ? Get on track with tips at

MAKE THE SEASON BRIGHT

Continued from page 7

• If you have an artificial tree, wrap the center pole with a

strand of lights before you add the branches. This will make the tree shine brighter from the inside.

• Use a wastebasket to hold rolls of wrapping paper.

• Use egg cartons to store small ornaments and ornament hooks. Use wine boxes to store larger, fragile ornaments.

• Spread a thick layer of whipped cream on a cookie sheet.

Freeze it for several hours and remove. Cut hearts out of the whipped cream with a cookie cutter and serve in hot cocoa.

Motion Picture Artwork © 2018 Summit Entertainment, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

• Put a ball of sugar cookie dough between two sheets of

wax paper. Roll it out between the papers so the dough doesn’t stick to the pin. While it’s still in the wax paper, put the flattened cookie dough in the refrigerator until y ou are ready to cut cookies out.

• Store cookies in an airtight tin with flour tortillas between layers to keep cookies from drying out. You can also use a slice of bread.

• If you don’t want to put nail holes in your fireplace mantel,

fit a tension rod in the wood frame and hang your stockings with shower hooks. You can also purchase nail-free stockingholder hooks.

NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING AND HEALTH COACHING

• Hang lightweight ornaments on long ribbons from your light

fixture or chandelier to make an elegant holiday decoration.

• Skip expensive candles and potpourri. Add water and

natural ingredients, such as apples, oranges, cinnamon sticks, or cloves, to a crockpot and heat. Enjoy holiday scents that aren’t overpowering.

• To keep Christmas lights from getting tangled, wrap them around a clothes hanger or power-cord holder.

W W W. F O S T E R N U T R I T I O N L L C . C O M Janeen Lewis is a freelance journalist, teacher and mom to Andrew and Gracie. She has been published in several parenting publications across the country and in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Christmas Magic.

Sara Sandhya Foster Jacobs, MScN, NTP

alls Chocolate Peanut Butter B

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2,000 ery Christm ev

Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! These peanut butter balls are a tasty way to begin and continue a family tradition.

Enjoy making these together in the kitchen and giving them away to friends and family!

o many years ag to my mother who asks. pe ci re is th n gave yone Adeline Melvi share it with an est—that she qu re e on ith w

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FAMILY

BUILDERS

34

Strong Families Don’t Just Happen

Spend a little time talking to each other every day—take our Family Chatter challenge. Have some messy fun in the kitchen or at a craft table making some of our featured Snacks & Crafts.

Teach your children what to do with leftover Halloween candy with our Teach Your Kids Something New. Learn all about good dental hygiene in That’s Good to Know. ENJOY LIFE—TOGETHER!

36 40

BOOK

ACTIVITIES

41 TEEN TALK

vice from Helpful Ad r! to Anothe One Teen

43

Visit Us Online!

ItsYourMagazine.com

Our FamilyChatter Challenge is simple— just do your best. Here are some easy questions that will hopefully inspire your family to engage in great conversations whenever, however, you can. Enjoy!

Live, Laugh, Love, and TALK TOGETHER!

What is your favorite subject at school?

Do you prefer to spend time with people or alone?

Do you want to live in your home town forever or move somewhere else?

Do you think you want to go to Sleep-away camp this year?

Who is your favorite person at school and why?

What was the best field trip you have ever been on?

Do you prefer to play board games or video games?

What is your favorite game of each?

Do you like having your day scheduled out or having lots of free time?

What new sport do you think you might want to try?

Do you want to go to your parent’s college or choose one of your own?

If you could go back and visit any relative in the past, who would it be and what would you do?

Do you prefer Thanksgiving or Christmas?

If you could buy anything at the dollar store, what would it be?

Do you wish that you had more siblings? Aunts? Uncles?

What was your favorite Halloween costume that you saw this year?

Keep the Conversation Going with Follow-up Questions: I nteresting. What else can you tell me about that? o Now what are you going to do? o No way! Can you tell me more? o Seriously? Then what happened? o How do you feel about what happened? o How does this make you feel? o What’s your next step? o

HOLIDAY 911 FOR PARENTS:

Rekindle Your Spirit in Ten Minutes Flat

By Christina Katz

Here come the holidays barreling down the calendar track. Are you frozen like a snowman in the headlights? Or are you frantic, checking an endless litany of musts off your overloaded holiday to-do list each day?

Even if you feel great about the approaching holidays and are mostly on top of all of the extra tasks that come with them, you can still hit your limit now and then. Once your holly-jollies start running on fumes, these steps will remind you how to hit the reset button so you can make a quick comeback:

STOP IT. The frenetic pace is undeniable at this time of

year—planning, shopping, parties, travel. However, all day, every day, you get to choose whether to act, react, respond, or detach. If you are often not feeling like you can invoke your power of choice, and if you find yourself reacting to situations you would prefer to detach from, then maybe you need a break. You’ll know you need a break if you feel consistently grumpy and stressed out. When this happens, take ten minutes to reevaluate your day. No matter how much you still have to do, anyone can spare a few minutes.

DROP IT. You may be attempting to accomplish too much

most days because of holiday pressure coming from inside and out.

But your holidays are more likely to be imperfect rather than perfect.

Ironically, the more we try to jam into our waking hours, the less we feel like we are in the flow. If we are pushing all day, using will to power through a series of tasks, it may feel as though each task grows larger and more daunting than the last. The key is to stop pushing. Striving is tiring, and constant striving turns quickly into exhaustion. So drop the willpower and try to relax yourself back into a more natural flow of tasks instead.

SIT DOWN.

Find a chair or sit on the floor against a wall.

Breathe in and breathe out. Just sit for a few moments, relax, and do nothing except breathe. What you are doing is using breath to slow down time. Of course, you can’t really control the clock, but you can change how time feels to you by getting back in touch with your senses. Breathing slowly and deeply is a shortcut back to sanity when you feel stressed. If something of tragic proportions happens, like forgetting to put the turkey out to thaw or neglecting to mail a package early enough to arrive on time, just keep breathing. When you panic and start berating yourself, it’s game over for your holiday spirit. So, when inevitable stresses strike and mistakes happen, simply sit, breathe, and take a few moments to collect yourself.

Continued on page 33

30 • November+December 2019 • Portland Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Cut out this page.

Then cut it down the middle.

He takes his half, she takes hers.

Keep it simple.

Don’t keep score.

Just enjoy life and each other— as often as you remember!

Let’s face it, most of us could use a little jump start now and then when it comes to relationships. That’s why we’ve included this section. Simple acts of kindness are a great way to say, “I care about you.” Date nights are great, but when life gets busy, sometimes all that’s necessary are little reminders!

Encourage her to do something outside of her comfort zone.

Dream together about your future.

Take a drive looking for fall leaves.

Make a list of 10 things why you are thankful that she is in your life.

Take out the trash.

Draw a bath for her– bubbles, chocolate and all!

Get her car washed and fill it with gas.

Send her an “I love you” text.

Challenge yourself to complete all 10 ideas in each issue.

Don’t just focus on the easy ones!

Tell her that she is beautiful.

Buy her flowers for no reason.

Portland Parent Magazine • November+December 2019 • 31

Cut out this page.

Then cut it down the middle.

He takes his half, she takes hers.

Keep it simple.

Don’t keep score.

Just enjoy life and each other— as often as you remember!

Let’s face it, most of us could use a little jump start now and then when it comes to relationships. That’s why we’ve included this section. Simple acts of kindness are a great way to say, “I care about you.” Date nights are great, but when life gets busy, sometimes all that’s necessary are little reminders!

Compliment him on how well he takes care of you and the family.

Put an “I love you” note by the coffeemaker.

Let him sleep in on the weekend.

Cook his favorite meal.

Encourage him to pursue a new hobby.

Bring him lunch when he is having a busy day at work.

Get his truck (or car) detailed.

Watch his favorite sports game on television with him.

Challenge yourself to complete all 10 ideas in each issue.

Don’t just focus on the easy ones!

Give him time to hang out with the guys without feeling guilty.

Wear an outfit that you know he loves.

32 • November+December 2019 • Portland Parent Magazine

Continued from page 30

TUNE IN. Once you can maintain a feeling of calm, pay atten-

tion to what is going on inside you. There may be a swirl of Black Friday competitive shopping going on all around you, but you can transcend any amount of external static by getting a grip on what’s happening within. What you are looking for is your inner compass.

Some folks call their intuition the still, small voice; others may rely on their inner Jiminy Cricket. Some people have a spiritual attitude toward their intuition, whereas others may prefer a more religious approach. It really doesn’t matter what you call your intuition, as long as you can tune in to it. Practice staying tuned in whether in calm or busy environments. If you can stay tuned in and trust your gut no matter what else is going on, you’ll be the happiest person around.

APPRECIATE SOMETHING. Now that you are

calm, cool, and collected, take a moment to appreciate one thing.

Consider something simple: notice a pretty wreath, feel the magic of watching falling snow, or appreciate the warmth of your coat on a brisk day. Once you get a grip on one thing you can enjoy thinking about, why not go ahead and think about it as long as you appreciatively can. When you feel done, move on to the next natural thing to appreciate. You may feel grateful for something right in front of you or for something more abstract. Whatever you genuinely feel positive about counts. Take a couple of moments to appreciate little things until you feel a smile spread across your face.

LET GO. No doubt, once you stop thinking about good

things, a few stressful things that have been lined up waiting for your attention will pop into your mind and start jumping up and down and waving their arms. But here’s the thing: You just got yourself into a pretty good place; do you really want to go back to square one all over again? I’m sure you don’t. And don’t feel badly about wanting to milk feeling good as long as possible. It’s good for you. So keep it up. Don’t revert right back into a stress monster. If nagging worry keeps dogging you, just acknowledge the concern

and gently wave it to the side as though clearing a butterfly from your path.

ACT THOUGHTFULLY. Ease back into your day,

moving forward mindfully. Drop the list for now. What is the single most important thing to do next? Intersperse actions with self-care.

Do a task, then put on some cheerful tunes. Do another, then light a wood wick candle. Do another, then put the water on for tea. Take short breaks after completing a series of tasks. Have small snacks throughout the day so you don’t overeat at mealtime. Maybe put your list away for a little while. Later, pull your list back out, and check a few more things off of it. But don’t become a slave to your to-dos. Remember, you set the tone for your holiday. And you can stay in charge by taking excellent care of yourself. v

10 STEPS TO A MORE JOYFUL HOLIDAY SEASON 1. Go to bed by 10 pm each night.

2. Get up an hour earlier and have some daily you time.

3. Watch all your favorite holiday movies.

4. Take a long winter’s nap.

5. Put a stack of inspirational books on your nightstand.

6. Write down your blessings.

7. Make a list of gifts you want and distribute it.

8. Take a long, hot bath with music and bath salts.

9. Listen to inspirational talks, podcasts, or books on tape.

10. Say kind things to yourself all day long.

Author, journalist and writing coach Christina Katz loves to savor the day during the most magical time of the year.

SOMETIMES OUR SON JUST NEEDS A PUSH — E V E N T O H A V E F U N

By Lisa A. Beach

My stubborn sophomore basically planted himself in front of his PS4 most weekends during ninth grade. He didn’t attend any football games, plays, concerts or any events other than soccer games and track meets because he was on the team. It’s a transition year, everyone kept telling me. He’ll come around, they said.

So, most weekends he would hang out at home, usually playing video games by himself or with his older brother. As I watched his tenth grade social life go down the same path, I put my foot down. It was Homecoming weekend, packed with a Friday football game and a Saturday dance. Getting him to attend the dance would be a harder sell, so I focused on the football game. True to form, he refused to go.

Now, there are worse problems than having your teenager want to stay home on a Friday night. I get it. But I wanted him to be a bigger part of the school community, so I drew a line in the turf.

My usual ploy of appealing to his logic was an epic fail: “It will be the best game of the year!” “You can leave at half-time if you’re not having fun.” And what I thought would hit pay dirt: “I’ll give you money for candy and soda.”

GETTING NOWHERE FAST WITH THIS KID. Finally, I tried another tactic: “Okay, you don’t have to go to the football game, but if you stay home, you can’t play video games.”

Well, that was the shot heard ’round his teenage world. Holy moly, did this send him into a tailspin.

Continued on page 37

34 • November+December 2019 • Portland Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

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Apricot Bites YOU'LL NEED

• 2 flat prepared pie crusts, thawed (not in a pie pan) • 30 dried whole apricots • 1/8 cup white sugar • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• cooking oil spray • pizza cutter • baking sheet • small bowl • spoon

DIRECTIONS

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

• Spray the baking sheet with oil.

• Lay the pie crusts on a clean flat surface. Use the pizza cutter to cut the crusts into ½-inch strips.

• Combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

• Coat each apricot in cinnamon and sugar mixture.

• Wrap each coated apricot in dough strips and place on the baking sheet.

• Lightly spray the wrapped apricots with oil, then sprinkle the tops with the remaining cinnamon and sugar.

• Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.

• Let cool, then serve.

Popcorn Mix YOU'LL NEED

• 2 7-ounce bags of popped kettle corn • 2 cups Goldfish crackers • 2 cups small pretzel twists • 1 cup sweet or savory salted nuts • 1 cup dried cranberries

• 6-8 paper lunch bags • colored markers • waxed paper • large mixing bowl or clean grocery sack • large spoon or spatula • optional—holiday stickers

DIRECTIONS

• Cut a piece of waxed paper to fit inside one side of the paper bag.

Insert it in the bag along one long wide side of the bag. This will keep the markers from bleeding through to the other sides of the bag.

• Use the markers to draw holiday designs on the bottom half of one wide side of each bag. Optional—use stickers to decorate the bags.

• Fold down to the outside the top of each lunch bag—2 to 3 1-inch turns.

• In the mixing bowl or grocery sack, combine the kettle corn, crackers, pretzels, nuts, and cranberries. Mix with a spoon or spatula until evenly distributed.

• Divide the mix between the bags and serve. If storing the mix, place in an airtight container or resealable bag.

36 • November+December 2019 • Portland Parent Magazine

Continued from page 34

“ARE YOU KIDDING ME?” HE SHOUTED. “THAT’S SO NOT FAIR! WHY ARE YOU PUNISHING ME? NO ONE I KNOW GOES TO THE FOOTBALL GAMES.” ON AND ON HE RANTED. My husband, Kevin, and I tried to reason with him (again), but this only made him dig his heels in deeper. That is, until Kevin’s cell phone rang. It was his friend Todd, whose son Brandon is one of my son’s best friends.

“Oh, Brandon’s already at the football game?” Kevin asked loudly so my son could overhear. After getting a few more details, Kevin hung up. We decided to press the issue one more time. We wanted our son to do more than just go to school. We wanted him to get involved. So we pushed a little more.

“FINE, I’LL GO,” MY SON RELENTED AS HE RAN UPSTAIRS TO CHANGE HIS CLOTHES.

WITHIN FIVE MINUTES, HE WAS OUT THE DOOR, IN THE CAR, AND ON THE WAY TO HIS FIRST HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL GAME. THREE HOURS LATER WHEN WE PICKED HIM UP, HE WAS ALL SMILES AS HE GAVE US A QUICK RECAP OF THE NIGHT. We could have just let the issue slide, allowing our son to stay in his comfort zone. But we knew he needed a push, even if it was to get out and have some fun. v

Lisa Beach is a freelance journalist and copywriter. Her work has been published in The New York Times, USA Today Go Escape, Good Housekeeping, Parents, Eating Well, and dozens more. Check out her writer’s website at www.LisaBeachWrites.com.

Melted Snowman Cookies FOR EACH COOKIE YOU NEED

• 1 marshmallow • 1 fudge-covered graham cracker • white cookie icing in a squeeze bottle • 5 mini chocolate chips

• ½ of a piece of candy corn (use sharp knife to cut a whole piece lengthwise to make 2 pieces) • 1 pretzel stick broken into 2 pieces • sharp knife

DIRECTIONS

• As needed, prepare cookie icing according to package instructions.

• Use cookie icing to glue two chocolate chips to the side of the marshmallow to make eyes—one eye lower than the other.

• Squeeze cookie icing onto the top of the fudge graham to create a puddle shape.

• While the icing is still wet, press the marshmallow head onto the icing in one corner of the fudge graham.

• Press the candy corn piece into the icing puddle at the base of the marshmallow to make a nose. Add a line of chocolate chips to the puddle for buttons and add pretzel stick pieces to make arms.

Watching Frosty the Snowman? These tasty cookies will be the perfect treat for your kids to enjoy!

Cookie Sticks YOU'LL NEED

• Pirouline crème-filled cookie wafers • ½ cup candy melts, any color • ½ cup mini M&Ms • waxed paper

• microwaveable 1 cup measuring cup • paper plate • optional—spoon

DIRECTIONS

• In the measuring cup, melt the candy according to package instructions.

• Dip one end of a cookie into the melted candy, then immediately roll the candy-coated end in mini M&Ms and place on the waxed paper. Repeat for the remaining cookies. Note: the cookies can be fragile, so you may want to use a spoon to drizzle the candy onto one end of each cookie.

• Let cool completely, then serve.

These Cookie Sticks are a fun, easy-to-make treat— perfect for last-minute holiday parties.

38 • November+December 2019 • Portland Parent Magazine

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY World of Speed family programs are a great way for the whole family to enjoy activities, hands-on fun, special presentations, and much more! Make your plans now to create magical family memories.

START LINE CLUB

SUMMER & WINTER CAMPS

OTTO’S STORYTIME GARAGE

Start Line is a children’s exhibit area that features hands-on activities that encourage cooperative play and stimulates the development of fundamental skills in young children. As children select tools, replace parts, and fill work orders in our Super Service Center, they exercise skills like sorting, matching, and problem-solving. Working with other “mechanics” encourages positive social skills, and the exhibit’s activities help enhance fine and gross motor skills.

World of Speed takes summer camp to a whole new level with camps that excite, educate, and challenge students grades K–12 in a fun, supportive environment. There are many reasons world of Speed’s camps stand out:

Join World of Speed every Friday at 10:30 a.m. for an all-new adventure for younger guests!

Otto’s Storytime Garage combines books, art, music, learning, and fun, with a new program each week. Hear a story and then take part in an activity that goes along with the book. Free with admission.

Recommended for children ages 2–5.

With a family membership two adults and up to two children get free admission every time you visit! Check out membership benefits at worldofspeed.org/membership today!

WORLD OF SPEED MOTORSPORTS MUSEUM WILSONVILLE, OREGON | 503-563-6444 | WORLDOFSPEED.ORG

• • • • •

Small camp size Expert instructors STEM-focused Hands-on experiences Girls Rule camp led by female instructors

EDUCATE // ENTERTAIN // PRESERVE // CELEBRATE

Holiday Gift Bag YOU'LL NEED

• solid-colored gift bag in a holiday color • 3 feet of seasonal ribbon • a variety of holiday stickers, ribbon scraps, artificial fall leaves or flowers, flat ornaments • double-stick tape • scissors • hot glue gun and glue sticks INSTRUCTIONS

• Use the materials to create a design on the gift bag.

Use transparent tape to apply strips of ribbon and the hot glue gun to attach ornaments and artificial leaves and flowers.

• Tie a length of seasonal ribbon to the handle of the bag.

For those special gifts that deserve a personal touch.

Cinnamon Pinecone Buddy YOU'LL NEED

• 6-8 inch pinecone • gold or silver glitter paint • ground cinnamon • 2 cinnamon sticks • 2 large wiggle eyes • 3/4-inch pompon for a nose • 6-inch length of ribbon,

twine, or chenille wire (to make a mouth) • small paint brush • 2 paper plates • hot glue gun and glue sticks • 3-foot length of 1½-inch wide holiday ribbon • scissors

INSTRUCTIONS

• Squeeze glitter paint onto a paper plate. Use the paint brush to apply glitter paint to the tops and tips of pinecone petals.

• While the paint is still wet, place the pinecone on a paper plate and sprinkle with ground cinnamon. Shake off excess cinnamon. Let dry.

• As needed, add more glitter paint and let dry again.

• Wrap the seasonal ribbon around the petals at the top of the pinecone and tie a half knot. Then tie the ribbon around the center of the cinnamon sticks to form a bow. Optional—the cinnamon sticks may be hot glued to the sides of the pinecone to make horns or arms instead of tying them with the ribbon.

• Use the glue gun to add wiggle eyes and a pompon nose to the tips of pinecone petals. Use a 6-inch length of ribbon, twine, or chenille wire to make a mouth (trim as desired) and hot glue it onto the pinecone 40 • November+December 2019 • Portland Parent Magazine

Th e Ear ly L e ar n in g Co alitio n o f th e Emer al d Coast's mi ssi on i s to su ppo rt th e su cce ss o f e ve r y ch ild an d th e i r fami l y thr ough qu ality ear ly edu catio n an d car e.

Enroll in Florida’s FREE VoluntaryCWhei lpdr Co vairdee Qf rueees trieosnosu? r c e a n d r e f e r r a l s e r v i c e s t o l o c a l f a m i l i e s regarding childcare.

Prekindergarten Parent Line: (850) 833-9333 Edu ation Progra Ear ly L ear n in g Co aliti on of the Eme r al d Coa 113 0 N Eglin Par kway, Shal i mar , FL 32579 (8 5 0 ) 8 3 3 -3 6 2 7 www.el c-ec.o rg

Get ready, set a time, and read!

Voluntary Prekindergarten

Florida offe rs fr ee pr eki n der gar ten fo r all 4 -ye ar-o lds re gardle ss o f family income.

Support the success of every child and their family through quality early education and care. Enjoy the books and the activities chosen for this edition to support your child’s early literacy skills.

Children must l i ve i n Fl o r i da an d be 4 ye ars o ld o n o r be fo re September 1 of th e cu r r en t year to be e ligible . If th e ir birth day falls from Fe bruary 2 th r o u gh S eptembe r 1, yo u may wait to e n ro ll yo u r child the followi n g year wh en th ey are 5 .

Apply online by vi si ti n g: www.familyse r vi ces.fl o r i daear l yl e arn in g.co m

SNUGGLE PUPPY: A LITTLE LOVE SONG

R e se ar ch sh o ws that c hildren who parti ci pate i n h i gh -qu al i ty pr e kin de rgarten pr ograms ar e be tte r pr e pare d fo r sch oo l andISBN-13:

By Sandra Boynton, de ve l o p l i fe l o ng soci al an d e mo ti on al ski l l s.

9780761130673

Full of joy, hugs and smooches! This delightful story also combines with a tune that infants will enjoy. Parents, cuddle up to your infants while reading this tender-hearted rendition of what the joy of love is all about.

Th e Early Le arnDeveloping in g Co alitio naofrelationship the Eme r al disCoast's on i s brain to ACTIVITY: crucialmi tossi infant development. Creating a strong bond encourages su ppo rt th e su cce ss o f e ve ry chi l d and the i r fami l y thr ough social development and trust. As you sing the story, hug and give your baby “smooches” as the book details. Then mainqu ality e arly e du catio n an d car e . tain eye contact with your infant while talking and smiling. Infants 6-8 months old will consciously smile back at you.

Child Care Questions?

We provide free resource and referral services to local families HAPPY

e g a r d iDodd, n g c h iISBN-13: l d c a r e . 0763696420 By rEmma

Toddlers P a r e n t enjoy L i n e : ( eye-catching, 8 5 0 ) 8 3 3 - 9 3 3 3short, and sweet stories, and this book certainly has what they want. A mother owl and a baby owl are depicted enjoying their everyday happy moments. This provides toddlers with relatable ideas about what it means to be happy.

ACTIVITY:

Early Le ar ni ng Coal i ti on of the Eme r al d Coast

Create113 a 0happy a sad N Egl iface n P arand kway, S hal face i mar , together FL 32579 using paper plates and crayons. Hold a happy face in front of your face and play (8 5 0 )peek-a-boo 833-3627 with the plate. Do the same for the sad face. While playing the game, model www.el c-ec.oto rg the plate. Ask toddlers what makes them happy. If they need a nudge answerthe facial expression that connects ing, discuss things they do that make them feel happy. Give your toddler a turn and match their chosen paper-plate expression with your own. This helps children understand how they are feeling so one day they will be able to communicate how they feel to the people around them.

SUGAR COOKIES: SWEET LITTLE LESSONS ON LOVE

By Amy Krouse Rosenthal, ISBN-13: 0061740721

Baking cookies will never feel the same after reading this book to your preschooler. The rich language described in the book matches the rich character-building actions when baking up ideas of ways to give to other people.

ACTIVITY: Roll up your sleeves and bake! What better way to teach the joy of giving than by showing action!

Ask your preschooler who they would like to give cookies to. Provide examples of people who have helped them or could use a kind gesture—from teachers to police officers. Even friends and family would love a nice cookie. Create a cookie recipe together on a large sheet of paper, say the words as you write them down, and let your preschooler make plenty of suggestions. What type of cookies will you make? How many? How will you wrap the cookies? The possibilities are endless—just like the joy of giving.

ItsYourMagazine.com • Portland Parent Magazine • November+December 2019 • 41

Light-up Ornament YOU'LL NEED

• battery-operated tea light • 2 small wiggle eyes • 6-inch length of narrow ribbon • permanent markers— red and black

• variety of colors of card stock • 2 green pompons (if making snowman) • hot glue gun and glue sticks • scissors • pencil

INSTRUCTIONS

• Hot glue the ends of the ribbon together to the back of the tea light to form a loop for hanging the ornament.

• Hot glue the wiggle eyes to the top of the light above the bulb (nose).

• To make ear muffs, cut a strip of card stock and hot glue the ends so it lays across the top of the head. Hot glue a pompon to each end of the paper strip to make muffs where the ears would be.

• To make reindeer horns, draw a simple horn shape on card stock and cut it out. Use this horn as a pattern to cut a second horn. Hot glue the horns to the back of the tea light.

• Use permanent markers to draw a mouth and add color to the cheeks.

Character Candy Bar Wrapper YOU'LL NEED

• wrapped candy bar (about 2½ x 6 inches) • white card stock • 2 small wiggle eyes • 1 small pompon nose • solid-color cuffed baby sock • 8-inch length of narrow ribbon

• colored markers • scissors • transparent tape • ruler • pencil • hot glue gun and glue stick

INSTRUCTIONS

• Draw a rectangle on the card stock equal to the length of the candy bar and the distance around the bar plus 1 inch.

Cut out the rectangle.

• Wrap the cut card stock around the candy bar and crease along the edges of the bar. The ends of the card stock should overlap at the back of the bar. Remove the wrapper from the bar.

• Lay the wrapper with the outside facing up. Use the pencil to lightly draw a line on the front of the wrapper 1 inch from the top (to reserve space for the hat).

• Below the line on the wrapper, put dots where each eye and the nose will be attached.

• Use the markers to draw the hair, mouth, clothes, etc., of a holiday character.

• Use the hot glue gun to attach the wiggle eyes and pompon nose.

• Wrap the character around the candy bar and use transparent tape to close the ends in the back.

• Slide the cuff of the baby sock over the top of the candy bar.

Tie the narrow ribbon around the sock into a bow to form a hat shape. Trim off the toe of the sock and fringe the end of the sock above the ribbon.

42 • November+December 2019 • Portland Parent Magazine

TEEN TALK

OFF TO COLLEGE As the cool temperatures approach and the holiday season is taking shape, freshman like me are wrapping up our first semester in college. The first few months have held many adventures and teachable moments, including being flexible between our class schedule and work, balancing budgets, or keeping our dorms/apartments together. Adulthood has taken on many forms. There have been lows, like having the air conditioning go out three times in one week, or needing to go to the grocery store after a long shift. There have been highs, like the freedom to make your own decisions, and the exciting bonding with coworkers. There’s been stress; there’s been laughter; there has been a roller coaster of emotions. Yet we are learning and growing all on our own. We are experiencing life in all of the best and worst ways.

I have found myself becoming very nervous over certain class projects, or working by myself for the first time. I have had to find new routes to drive and new ways to shop for food or housing items.

I have had to tend to simple issues such as a slow dryer or broken vacuum all on my own, things that my parents always took care of.

It has been completely foreign and strange to be responsible for all of these things, especially regarding working or driving. While it is helpful to have our parents to assist us and give advice, it is also helpful to allow us the space we need to create our own path—to help us by quietly letting us become who we are going to be.

It makes me feel wonderful to know I have completed something on my own and solved these issues as an adult. As the new year approaches, things are changing. It is intricate, chaotic, and intense, but it is lovely and much needed. Make sure to listen to those you love, to be there, and to show your understanding for the stressful parts. Make sure to check in; move away from judgmental language or behavior, and offer support whenever you can. Your children are going to need you, but they’re also going to need to find help within themselves. Growth is coming; allow it the space to do so. v

Nia

COLLEGE FRESHMAN, AGE 18

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FUN GUIDE CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Making the Most of Life on the Coast! We live on a beautiful coast that has so much to offer, and we’re here to make sure you know what’s going on in your own backyard. Enjoy!

by dancers, a cinematic Nativity, and Santa at Keller Auditorium. It is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit! For more information, visit www.events12.com.

Children’s Christmas Party

Sat, Nov 24 – Wilsonville (10:00a.m.)

Head to the Al Kader Shriners for a Children’s Christmas party! This event is free to the public and for children aged 12 and under. There will be gifts from Santa, a Santa’s workshop, story time, and more! For more information, visit www.events12.com.

booths of juried handcrafted items plus 500 booths of commercial holiday products at the Portland Expo Center. The bazaar is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. For more information, visit www.events12.com.

Drive-through Light Show

Fri, Nov 29-Sun, Dec 29 – Portland Head to the Portland International Raceway for this year’s Winter Wonderland. Billed as the largest light show in the Northwest, you can expect to see at least 250 colorful displays. For more information, visit www.events12.com.

Christmas at Pittock Mansion

Mon, Nov 25-Tues, Dec 31 – Portland

Seasonal Portland Veterans Day Parade

Mon, Nov 11 – Portland (9:30a.m.)

Portland’s only Veterans Day parade was established in 1974. Vernon E. Ross, proprietor of Ross Hollywood Funeral Chapel, founded the parade to honor all veterans, past and present, living and deceased. Visit www.events12.com.

Christmas Lights Trail

Sat, Nov 16-Tues, Dec 31 – West Linn (4:00p.m.)

Join the Friends of Maddox Woods at the 16th annual lighting of Maddax Woods. Follow the beautiful lighted gardens and walkways throughout Maddox Woods to celebrate the holiday season. Visit www.events12.com.

Portland’s Singing Christmas Tree Fri, Nov 22-Sun, Dec 1 – Portland

Portland’s Singing Christmas Tree holds a 300-voice choir singing holiday songs, joined

If you are looking for an interesting way to celebrate the holiday season, look no further than a visit to Pittock Mansion! Walk through the mansion to see its decorations by professional designers and listen to musicians play holiday music in the music room. For more information, visit www.events12.com.

35th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Fri, Nov 29 – Portland (5:30p.m.)

Join thousands of Portlanders as they gather at the Pioneer Courthouse Square to celebrate the lighting of the spectacular 75-foot Douglas-fir tree provided by Stimson Lumber Company. With a giant tree, over 14,000 colorful lights, and Portland’s largest community sing-a-long, this is an event you won’t want to miss! For more information, visit www. events12.com.

Christmas Bazaar

Fri, Nov 29-Sun, Dec 8 – Portland Get ready for Christmas shopping at its finest.

America’s largest Christmas bazaar has 400

44 • November+December 2019 • Portland Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Lights at the Grotto

Fri, Nov 29-Mon, Dec 30 – Portland The Grotto’s Christmas Festival of Lights is one of the largest Christmas choral festivals in the world. The festival features more than 170 indoor holiday concerts performed by many of the region’s finest school, church and civic choirs. There will also be outdoor caroling,

Christmas Train

Fri, Nov 29-Sun, Dec 1 – Portland Join Santa Claus and his elves for a magical ride behind Portland’s famous steam locomotives. Vintage rail cars transport you through wilderness in the heart of the city. Round-trip rides run from Oaks Park Station through Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge to the Springwater Trail gateway on the Oregon Pacific Railroad.

For tickets and more information, visit www. orhf.org.

Holiday Ale Festival

Wed, Dec 4-Sun, Dec 8 – Portland The 24th annual Holiday Ale Festival is back!

Enjoy over 50 craft beers at this winter event.

For information, visit www.holidayale.com. puppet shows, and a live petting zoo. For more information, visit www.events12.com.

Christmas in the Garden

Fri, Nov 29-Mon, Jan 5 – Portland Christmas in the Garden is a charming, European-inspired outdoor event featuring ice skating, snowless tubing, an artisan vendor market, photos with Santa, fire pits, live music, and more. Bring the family and enjoy the beautiful views. For more information, visit www.oregongarden.org.

ZooLights

Fri, Nov 29-Tues, Jan 6 – Portland Head to the Oregon Zoo and watch it transform into a magical winter wonderland.

ZooLights uses over 1.5 million LED lights to transform the zoo into a mystical place with lighted trees, animal silhouettes, and moving sculptures. For more information, visit www. events12.com.

Christmas Ship Parade

Thurs, Dec 5-Sun, Dec 22 – Portland If you are looking for a parade that is different from the rest, this is the parade for you. During the Christmas Ship Parade, watch 50 boats with Christmas lights cruise the Columbia River and the Willamette River. For a full schedule and more information, visit www. events12.com.

Hood River Parade

Fri, Dec 6 – Hood River (6:00p.m.)

Hood River Holidays is kicking off the holiday season with a parade on Oak Street at 6:00p.m.

The parade is followed by carolers and a tree lighting at Overlook Memorial Park at 7:00p.m.

For information, visit www.events12.com.

Festival of Trees

Fri, Dec 6-Sat, Dec 7 – Portland Kick off this holiday season at the 37th annual Safeway Providence Festival of Trees. Stroll

through a magical winter wonderland filled with stunning Christmas trees and displays.

Proceeds will benefit Providence Children’s Health. For more information, visit www.providencefoundations.org.

The Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition Fri, Dec 13 – Portland (6:00p.m.)

Pioneer Courthouse Square and Portland Mall Management, Inc. are hosting the 6th annual Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition that was originally held throughout downtown in the early 1990s! This competition is a fun and festive event that will bring caroling groups of all ages to the heart of downtown, competing for a $1,000 grand prize!This event is free to the public. Visit www.events12.com.

New Year’s Eve Gala

Tues, Dec 31 – Portland Countdown to 2020 at the spectacular Champagne Ball! This event includes three dance floors, food, and 18 bars at the Hilton Portland Downtown. This event is for ages 21 and older. Visit www.events12.com.

New Year’s Eve Governor’s Ball Tues, Dec 31 – Portland

A great way to ring in the New Year would be to attend this year’s Governor’s Ball. This would include reserved seating, a three-course dinner, wine, dancing, live music, and a champagne toast at the Sentinel Hotel. For more information, visit www.events12.com.

New Year’s Eve Comedy Tues, Dec 31 – Portland

If you are looking for a unique way to spend your New Year’s Eve, look no further! The New Year’s Eve Extravaganza at Curious Comedy

ItsYourMagazine.com • Portland Parent Magazine • November+December 2019 • 45

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Theater promises an evening full of laughs.

This event includes four hours of sketch, stand-up, improv, aerial arts, hors d’oeuvres, dessert, and a midnight champagne toast. For more information, visit www.events12.com.

Collective. Ela FaLa is a collaborative portal that uses dance through various mediums to express the feminine experience in the world. For tickets, pricing, and more information, visit www. polarisdnce.org.

Tenderly, the Rosemary Clooney Musical Sat, Nov 9-Sun, Nov 24 – Portland

Tenderly, the Rosemary Clooney Musical is about a woman whose incredible talents and personality made her a legend. With incredible musical numbers, you can’t help but sing along and cheer! For tickets, show times and information, visit www.portlandmusicaltheater.org.

The Hip Hop Nutcracker

Tues, Nov 12-Wed, Nov 13 – Portland This is a holiday mash-up for the entire family! The Hip Hop Nutcracker is a contemporary reimagining of Tchaikovsky’s timeless music.

For tickets, show times and more information, visit www.portland5.com.

Scrooge the Musical

The Arts Siren Nation Festival

Thurs, Nov 7-Sun, Nov 17 – Portland The 2019 Siren Nation Festival showcases the original work of women and their art with an incredible music lineup, hilarious comedy, a visual art show with amazing artists, an arts and crafts sale, and free workshops. For tickets, pricing, and more information, visit www.sirennation.org.

Anna

Fri, Nov 8-Sun, Nov 10 – Portland The Polaris Dance Theatre in Portland presents Anna, an original dance by the theatre’s Ela FaLa

Fri, Nov 29-Sun, Dec 15 – Portland Head to the Sellwood Playhouse to watch one of your favorite holiday stories come to life.

Watch the cast dance, sing and thoroughly entertain as they perform a fun musical based on the story of Scrooge. For more information, visit www.events12.com.

A Christmas Carol

Sat, Nov 30-Sun, Dec 29 – Portland Join Mr. Scrooge and the ghostly spirits who visit him through a journey toward friendship, love, and the spirit of Christmas. This traditional tale is a holiday favorite. For tickets, pricing and more information, visit www.portlandplayhouse.org

46 • November+December 2019 • Portland Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

A Beatles Circus Spectacular

Wed, Dec 4-Sat, Dec 14 – Portland White Album Xmas has become a Portland tradition. The Nowhere Band is a full 15-piece Beatles orchestra that plays The White Album in its entirety, while jugglers, aerialists, clowns and acrobats of the Portland Circus Allstars present their talents. For tickets and more information, visit www.albertarosetheatre.com.

Matilda the Musical

Sat, Dec 7-Sun, Dec 5 – Portland A Tony Award-winning act that is sure to please the masses. Matilda revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination, and the idea that truly big, powerful and magical things can come in even the tiniest of packages. For tickets and information, visit www.nwcts.org.

The Nutcracker

Sat, Dec 7-Thurs, Dec 26 – Portland Oregon Ballet Theatre’s annual performance of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker has brought joy to the holidays for 16 years. Join Marie and her charming prince as they are swept away by dancing snowflakes to a magical land of sweets ruled by the Sugarplum Fairy— all to Tchaikovsky’s brilliant score. For tickets and more information, visit www.obt.org.

Handel’s Messiah

Fri, Dec 13-Mon, Dec 16 – Portland Messiah is arguably the most-performed work in all of musical history. Monica Huggett takes the stage to lead in Portland’s only annual production of this holiday tradition on period instruments. Guest soloists include Mary Wilson, soprano; Krisztina Szabo, mezzo-soprano; Dann Coakwell, tenor; Sumner Thompson, baritone.

For tickets and information, visit www.pbo.org.

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29th Annual Tuba Christmas Concert Sat, Dec 14 – Portland (1:30p.m.)

Listen as downtown Portland comes to life as nearly 300 tubas play in unison for the 29th annual Tuba Christmas Concert. This seasonal performance is free to the public. For more information, visit www.thesquarepdx.org.

Duck vs. Beaver Rivalry Run Sun, Nov 17 – King City

This Rivalry Run 5K, 10K and Half Marathon series lets runners add a little good-natured fan flavor to their run! Ducks and Beavers fans will start in opposing start areas in their team colors, then clash, in a friendly way of course, at the start line after the gun goes off. Once the race is over, the top times from each side will be totaled up and bragging rights will be officially bestowed by the race director. Visit www. runguides.com.

Hood to Coast Turkey Trot Wed, Nov 27 – Portland

Get ready for this 5K run/walk with a relay option that takes place at Portland International Raceway. The course is a fun themed course marked by holiday lights. There will also be a kids’ trot. Turkey trotters are encouraged to dress up for this one, as the race organizers usually give out an award for the best holiday outfit. Both runners and walkers are welcome.

For information, visit www.runguides.com.

Sherwood Give ’n’ Gobble

Thurs, Nov 28 – Sherwood (9:00a.m.)

Runs, Walks & More Stumptown Cross Race Four Sun, Nov 3 – Portland

Stumptown Cross is a series of fun, competitive cross-country races for runners of all ages and skill levels to truly test their ability. Head outside and test your limits and skills in the grass, hills and mud! This race will take place at Pier Park. For information, visit www.runguides.com.

The event includes a 5K walk/run, as well as a 10K run. Proceeds and food donations will go to Helping Hands Food Bank. For more information, visit www.runguides.com.

ORRC Turkey Trot

Thurs, Nov 28 – Portland The Turkey Trot at the Zoo is a multi-generational family event. Runners and walkers of all abilities love the 4-mile untimed outing between the Oregon Zoo and the International Rose Gardens. Participants finish inside the zoo. For more information, visit www.runguides.com.

Clark County Turkey Trot Thurs, Nov 28 – Vancouver

The Clark County Turkey Trot is a Thanksgiving tradition! With 100% of the proceeds benefiting Clark County Food Bank, Turkey Trot provides a way for the community to come together and give back on this day of thanks. While all registered racers have the option to track their time via electronic chip, the course is not designed for you to have the fastest race time. Instead, Turkey Trot exists as a celebration of thanks, an opportunity to support the community, and a great way to have fun on a run! For more information, visit www.runguides.com.

Tofurky Trot

Thurs, Nov 28 – Portland Tofurky Trots are designed to support both the health and vitality of local communities and raise money for local non-profits supporting a compassionate plant-based lifestyle.

The trot is a 5K run, trot or walk open to all levels of physical fitness. Prizes will be awarded to the top male, female, and child finishers, as well as for best costume. Only the top three will be timed, but a running clock will display times at the finish. Expect tasty vegan snacks and drinks at the finish line! Visit www.runguides.com.

Turkeython

Thurs, Nov 28 – Portland This 5K race happens in multiple locations in and around the PDX area at the same time.

Most of the events are chip-timed and provide a location-specific leader board. In addition to the leader board, all timed Turkeythons are combined into an all-locations leader board.

For information, visit www.runguides.com.

ItsYourMagazine.com • Portland Parent Magazine • November+December 2019 • 47

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Holiday Half Marathon Sun, Dec 8 – Portland

Get in the holiday spirit and treat yourself to the most festive holiday race of the season!

With carolers serenading you all along the oneof-a-kind and flat course, you will be delightfully distracted as you wind your way through the streets of North Portland. Finish the race and treat yourself to craft beer, hearty holiday soup, hot chocolate, snacks, samples, and more! For more information, visit www.runguides.com.

exhibitors, the festival will provide shoppers with one-of-a-kind gifts that cannot be found anywhere else. Art, crafts, jewelry, clothing, wood, music, photography, toys, Christmas décor, and much more, make this event a gift buyer’s delight! There is a large gourmet-food area where you can sample and purchase a wide range of food items, including tea, chocolates, pasta, soups, dips, meats, coffee, jams, shortbread, salsas, oils & vinegars, honey, sauces, and more! For more information, visit www.events12.com.

Jingle Bell Run

Sun, Dec 15 – Portland

Ridgefield Ugly Christmas Sweater Run Sat, Dec 7 – Ridgefield

Get ready to run with Santa through the beautiful rural hills of Ridgefield! After the run, there will be cookies to enjoy. Runners will want to bring two cans of food to donate to a local food bank. There will be awards, including a special award for the best ugly sweater! For more information, visit www. runguides.com.

Reindeer Run

Sat, Dec 7 – St. Helens Get ready for the St. Helens Reindeer Run! All funds raised will be donated to the Columbia County Toy-n-Joy, the Columbia Food Bank, and the St. Helens Police Academy. Runners have the option of a 5K, 10K or a half marathon run/ walk that heads out of town into the beautiful countryside. Before and after the race you can warm up by the fireplace with coffee, cocoa, and snacks. For more information, visit www. runguides.com.

The Arthritis Foundation’s original Jingle Bell Run is a fun way to get decked out and be festive while racing to raise funds and awareness to cure America’s #1 cause of disability. Put on your favorite holiday costume, tie jingle bells to your shoelaces, bring friends, family and coworkers to run/walk, and spread some holiday cheer! For more information, visit www.runguides.com.

Resolution Relay BYOB (Bring Your Own Baton) Sun, Dec 29 – Boring

Finish the year off with a half marathon on New Year’s Eve! Distance options include a halfmarathon relay done in teams of 4, 3, 2 or 1. For more information, visit www.runguides.com.

Sounds Fun 30th Annual Holiday Food and Gift Festival Fri, Nov 1-Sun, Nov 3 – Portland

This festival is one of the largest holiday celebrations in the Northwest, drawing thousands of attendees annually who complete their holiday shopping early. With hundreds of

48 • November+December 2019 • Portland Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

Siren Nation Festival

Thurs, Nov 7-Sun, Nov 17 – Portland The 2019 Siren Nation Festival showcases the original work of women and their art with an incredible music lineup, hilarious comedy, a visual art show with amazing artists, an arts and crafts sale, and free workshops. For more tickets, pricing, and more information, visit www.sirennation.org.

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Science-Fiction Convention

Fri, Nov 8-Sun, Nov 10 – Portland This year’s OryCon is sure to be the best one yet! Meet sci-fi and fantasy authors and artists, attend panels, workshops, dances, games, and vendor exhibits at the Red Lion Hotel. For more information, visit www.events12.com.

Literature in Bars

Fri, Nov 8 – Portland Lit Crawl Portland features local authors reading their works in dozens of bars, cafes, bookstores, art galleries, and performance spaces downtown. This is free to the public. For more information, visit www.events12.com.

Literary Festival

Sat, Nov 9 – Portland Get ready for this year’s Portland Book Festival.

This festival will bring together independent publishers, booksellers, authors, food vendors, and more! Visit www.events12.com.

Northwest Food and Wine Festival Sat, Nov 9 – Portland

This year’s Northwest Food and Wine Festival is sure to be the best one yet! Sample 600 wines and a variety of gourmet foods from 50 restaurants at the Oregon Convention Center.

For more information, visit www.events12.com.

Kumoricon

Fri, Nov 15-Sun, Nov 17 – Portland Kumoricon is an anime convention taking place at the Oregon Convention Center. This event offers cosplay, games, dancing, special guests, discussion panels, artists, and more! For more information, visit www.kumoricon.org.

Portland Chapter TCA Open House and Train Meet Sun, Nov 17 – Beaverton

Watch nine different trains and see how they operate, try your hand at the throttle, and shop for new and used trains at the Aloha Mall in Beaverton. Visit www.events12.com.

Beaujolais Wine Festival

Fri, Nov 22 – Portland (6:00p.m.)

A ticket to Beaujolais Nouveau includes tastes of the latest vintage from Oregon, Washington, and France, plus a gourmet buffet at the Heathman Hotel. Visit www.events12.com.

Wild Arts Festival

Sat, Nov 23-Sun, Nov 24 – Portland This festival features 70 artists and 30 authors inspired by nature, plus a silent auction to benefit the Audubon Society at Pure Space. For more information, visit www.events12.com.

Cat Show

Sat, Dec 7-Sun, Dec 8 – Portland (9:00a.m.)

The Lewis and Clark LH Specialty Cat Club is hosting a CFA Cat Show at the Double Tree Inn at Lloyd Center. See up to 225 top show cats on display. There will also be purebred kittens for sale, rescue cats for adoption, a household pet competition, a veteran cat competition, and cat supplies, toys and gifts for sale. For information, visit www.lewisandclarkcatclub.com.

Scandinavian Fair

Sat, Dec 7-Sun, Dec 8 – Portland (10:00a.m.)

Head to the Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Portland’s Rose Quarter for a two-day Nordic craft fair extravaganza. Experience the sights, sounds, tastes, and traditions of a Nordic holiday season. For more information, visit www. nordicnorthwest.org.

Storytimes in Milwaukie

Every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday – Milwaukie (10:00a.m.)

Head to the library to enjoy story time with your kids. Each Monday, there will be story time for toddlers aged 1-3. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, story time will be for children aged 3-5. For more information, visit www. milwaukieoregon.gov.

Honeybee Hikes

Every Wednesday – Portland (10:00a.m.)

Leach Botanical Garden is hosting Honeybee Hikes! This activity is geared toward children aged 2-5, accompanied by an adult. You will get the chance to look for wildlife, listen to the wind and the creek, touch a thimbleberry leaf, water the Children’s Discovery Garden, and maybe even eat a raspberry right off the vine! The guides will then read a story and help children craft something fun.

Each week is different with seasonal themes.

For more information, visit www.leachgarden.org.

Beer and Wood Market Sat, Dec 7 – Portland

This unique event is sure to please. Shop for gifts made from wood, drink beer aged in wood, and eat wood-fired pizza at Baerlic Brewing. This is an all-ages event. For more information, visit www.events12.com.

Renegade Craft Fair

Sat, Dec 21-Sun, Dec 22 – Portland (11:00a.m.)

The Renegade Craft Fair is here and offering indie crafts, food trucks, and a DJ outside of Pure Space. This event is free. For more information, visit www.events12.com.

Whale Watching Week

Fri, Dec 27-Tues, Dec 31 – Portland It is that time of year to see majestic whales swim and play in the wild. People come from all over the world to learn about the gray whales that travel along the Oregon coast each year. The Whale Watching Spoken Here program places volunteers at great whale watching sites to help visitors watch whales along the Pacific Northwest Coast. For a map of viewing locations and more information, visit www.oregonstateparks.org.

Reoccurring Local Micah & Me

First Monday of each month – Portland (10:00a.m.)

Visit Beanstalk, a children’s consignment store, every first Monday for an in-house dance party and music show for kids of all ages. Micah & Me have the ability to connect with youngsters of all ages while playing live, fun-filled music on the guitar and ukulele. For more information, visit www.micahandmerocks.com.

Portland Art Museum

Every Friday – Portland (5:00p.m.)

Every Friday evening, the Portland Art Museum is offering a different museum experience for only $5 after 5:00p.m. This experience is a more relaxed, more interactive, and more social experience. You can expect to see a pop-up pub, unique tours and games, photo booths, art guides, and more.

For more information, visit www.portlandartmuseum.org.

Dragon Theater Puppet Show

Every Friday – Portland (6:30p.m.)

The Dragon Theater has a free puppet show with paid admission to PlayDate PDX. These shows are fun for all ages and change weekly. For more information, visit www.playdatepdx.com.

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