Bend Nest Spring 2022

parenting magazine

SPRING 2022

HOLIDAY

St. Patty’s Day Scavenger Hunt

HEALTH

Pandemic Babies

OUTDOORS It’s Gardening Time!

ot Ballide !

Ins

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Red Blanket by Megan Marie Myers @meganmariemyersart

Publisher Editor Associate Editor Copy Editor Contributing Writers

Calendar Editor Design & Layout Photography

Advertising Executives

Aaron Switzer Angela Switzer Nicole Blume Nicole Vulcan Annette Benedetti Joshua Savage Paige Bentley-Flannery Donna Britt K.M. Collins Meghan Allsopp Diana Fischetti Trevor Bradford Rise Graphic Design Nicole Blume Natalie Stephenson Darris Hurst K.M. Collins Tambi Lane Joshua Savage Ashley Sarvis Ban Tat Renee LeBlanc

SPRING ISSUE

On the Cover

We collapse as one into this perfect shape. It is formed by the dust of a thousand adventures, by sweat-sticky skin, and by sage-scrubbed fur. We are a tangle of light, spring days, and the pretty sounds of your breathing.

BendNest Contact Editorial angela@bendnest.com Sales advertise@bendnest.com

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CONTENTS UPFRONT 7 9 11

EDITOR’S NOTE NEST NEWS HOLIDAY

SECTIONS 16 17 20 21 25 28 30

BOOKSHELF PARENTING COMMUNITY CALENDAR FAMILY TIME OUTDOORS THINGS I'VE LEARNED

12 HIDDEN GEMS CULTURE - With spring break just around the corner, why not plan an excursion to one of the lesser-known museums in and around Central Oregon?

18 RESCUE MISSON

Vote on Page 12 or at bendnest.com

EDUCATION - The labor shortage in our schools

has recently burdened the pool of substitute teachers. Read Meghan Allsopp’s account of a day in the life of a sub.

26 GENERATION RESILIENT HEALTH - Babies born during the pandemic entered a world of masked faces with limited exposure to people. Nicole Blume explores the cost of these measures on our children.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

S

pring is just around the corner and it’s hard not to feel excited as we say goodbye to winter and hello to longer days and budding natural surroundings. Alongside spring’s entrance, the statewide lifting of the mask mandate by March 31 brings hope and promise of a long hibernation finally ending.

We’re excited for this issue to hit the stands because it’s an important one for our readers and for local businesses too.

It’s time to vote for Best of the Nest. You may fill out the print ballot or head to bendnest.com to cast your vote online!

This issue we’ve focused a bit on issues stemming from the pandemic restrictions, offering a look at where we are today and ways to mitigate some of the fallout regarding our children.

Sadly, pandemic restrictions have taken a toll on babies’ development. It may take some time before we realize the true cost of the measures. Read Nicole Blume’s piece in Health on the impacts of social distancing and mask wearing on developing minds. Take heart, though: the brain is remarkable in its ability to heal and adapt.

In Education, Meghan Allsopp informs us of the current shortage of teachers in our schools and recants her hilarious experience as a first-time substitute teacher. Another casualty of the pandemic, teachers rely on subs who are in such high demand that community members without teaching licenses are being called upon for the job.

Looking ahead, it’s time to plan for spring break at the end of March and if you’re searching for something to do with the kids, check out Culture, where hidden gems in the museum world are revealed. As always, consult our Calendar for an abundance of family-friendly outings, as well.

With the new season arriving, it’s time to prepare the garden and start planting some of the heartier crops. Gardening is such a fun way to get the kids outdoors and learning about the natural environment. Joshua Savage, in Outdoors, tells of lessons learned with his daughters and has some very helpful tips for surviving the Central Oregon gardening challenge (we’re not in the Willamette Valley)!

Speaking of gardening, Donna Britt offers a few simple, yet tasty recipes in Family Time using seasonal ingredients. Check them out—what’s not to love about fresh produce?

We think you’ll find many informative and optimistic articles in this issue. Enjoy and…Happy Spring!

Who’s Going to Be Your Baby’s Doctor?

Most insurance plans assign a doctor, but you really do have a choice.

Choose COPA, the most trusted and recommended doctors for kids.

All kids are welcome.

All healthcare plans accepted.

Open 7 Days A Week • 24/7 Nurse Advice • Four Locations • (541)-389-6313 • COPAKids.com P

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CENTRAL OREGON

Healthy Adventures Await!

WINNER

Open Daily for You and Your Pets DOCTORS BYRON MAAS, TABITHA JOHNSTON, LAUREN HOFFMAN LAURA ACEVEDO COURTNEY MCLAUGHLAN AND BRIAN LOUDIS

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bendveterinaryclinic.com 360 NE QUIMBY AVE 382-0741

NEST

NEWS

If the Shoe Fits

Choice Option schools provide alternatives to traditional education

L

ooking ahead to the 2022-23 school year, families may want to consider the Choice Option schools available within the Bend -La Pine district. These schools all feature learning opportunities that are significantly different from the traditional programs and offer families a variety of learning styles to fit every student’s needs and interests. The Choice Option schools have the same standards and requirements as traditional schools within the district but may execute things a bit differently. New this year is the option for families to submit more than one application, allowing for a second or third choice school.

All schools are planning virtual information sessions, and some will also offer in-person, as well. Application deadlines are March 1 for high school students and March 18 for those entering grades Kindergarten through 8th.

• Amity Creek Magnet at Thompson School (K-5) - Info sessions: in-person March 2 at 5:30 p.m. and virtual March 8 at 5:30 p.m.

• Highland Magnet at Kenwood School (K-5) - Info session: virtual March 9 at 5:30 p.m.

• Juniper Elementary School (K-5) - Info session: virtual March 9 at 2 p.m.

• Realms Middle School (grades 6-8) - Info sessions: in-person Feb. 17 at 6 p.m. and virtual Feb. 22 at 6 p.m.

• Spanish Dual Immersion Program at Bear Creek and R.E. Jewell Elementary Schools, High Desert Middle School and Caldera High School - Info sessions: virtual March 1 at 6 p.m.

• Westside Village Magnet at Kingston School (K-8) - Info sessions: in-person March 3 at 5:30 p.m. and virtual Tuesdays Feb. 8 to March 15 at 4 p.m.

• Realms High School (9-12) – contact the school • Bend Tech Academy at Marshall School – contact the school

For more information and to read more about each Choice Option school, visit: bend.k12.or.us/district/academics/choice-options.

Celebrating 10 years of business in Central Oregon!

Blair Struble DMD MSD Erica Crosta DMD MS Madeline Peterson DDS MS

541.848.6642

Offices in Bend and Redmond

www.strubleortho.com Spring 2022 | 9

We are now offering No School Days Art Camps, Birthday Parties, Spring Break and Summer Camps, Adult Creative Classes.

HiddenGnomesCreativeStudio.com 541 - 241 - 2262

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NOTHING SAYS “SPRING GREEN” LIKE

Saint Patrick's Day

Enjoy a St. Patrick’s Day scavenger hunt for kids

By Nicole Blume

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eld every March 17, this feast day in honor of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is beloved across the country among descendents of the Irish diaspora. From festive parades to greenlit landmarks, revelers celebrate Irish culture and heritage with traditional food, drinks and games – and, of course, by wearing green to keep those pesky pinches away!

Here in Bend, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are held across many local businesses, particularly brewpubs. This is only to be expected in a self-described “Beer Town.”

Yet for those who have traded the beer bottle for the baby bottle, St. Patrick’s Day may look a wee bit different. Who needs alcohol

to have fun when you have kids? They are definitely cuter than leprechauns!

Speaking of those small, enchanted folk, did you know they love to play tricks on unsuspecting townsfolk, especially the wee young ones? One of their favorite jokes involves hiding a special treasure in an unexpected place (inside a shoe, under the dog bowl...) and setting out clues for enterprising scavenger hunters to follow.

In that vein, if you're in need of a little green inspiration, look no further than the following template to set up your own St. Patrick’s Day treasure hunt at home for your kids to enjoy. (Feel free to change the clues and locations to fit your setting). Good luck, leprechauns!

CLUE 1 (SINK)

CLUE 4 (GNOME)

CLUE 7 (BACKYARD)

Why, Sneaky Little Leprechauns, green as grass!

But be warned these clues will get more sticky,

Are you ready to look for Clue #7?

Who came last night through the window glass?

They’ve hidden a secret treasure for you to find, Follow the clues, with your bright little mind!

Can you solve the puzzles, one by one?

Ah, clue #3 wasn’t even that tricky!

Clue #4, is right by the door,

But which door, in all our whole home,

Before the clock runs out, and the day is done?

Why, the one that’s nearest a large, friendly, bearded...

For we always need to wash our hands in the...

CLUE 5 (FRONT DRIVEWAY)

Now the first clue isn’t too hard, I think,

Didn’t I tell you clue 4 would be tough?

CLUE 2 (FIRE)

We’re just getting started, the first clue has been found, Now we must travel to the hottest spot around,

This is a place where Leprechauns dance around the Shire, Here at home, the clue is by the...

CLUE 3 (FRIDGE LARDER) I see you found clue #2!

Surely that wasn’t very hard to do…

Fair warning, these clues will get a little bit harder The next clue is where food is stored in the...

I hope this treasure hunt isn’t too rough!

We must be extra careful when finding clue #5, For this clue is hidden where cars like to...

CLUE 6 (TRASH CANS)

Oh me, oh my you found clue #5!

I hope you’re feeling happy and alive!

Alas, I don’t think you’ll like clue #6,

You’ll probably think I’m playing you a trick, Yet if you wish to find the ultimate prize,

You won’t be afraid of a few buzzing flies,

For in order to find where the next clue is stashed, Are you willing to look in the big, outdoors, super stinky...

Ha! I bet you thought the last clue was heaven!

We’re getting close, but time is almost at an end,

I hope you have remembered to be a good friend, The final clue is hidden somewhere in the backyard,

But I warn you, finding it will be very hard, For this is a place children love to play,

That narrows it down, wouldn’t you say?

Now hurry dear ones, scramble and run,

Find the last clue before our time is done!

CLUE 8 (FINAL PRIZE)

You found me, the final clue!

I am so very proud of you!

With brightness, and kindness, and good friendship all around, You worked together so each clue could be found, I thought I could trick you, but I was wrong I see, You have bested this Leprechaun and now I must flee!

But before I go, you have earned your Leprechaun treat,

Come back to the kitchen, where you’ll have something to eat!

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BESTof the

2022

Get your votes in today!

A

s we’ve muddled our way through the pandemic during the last two years, sadly, some of our favorite Central Oregon businesses have closed their doors forever. On the upside, though, an influx of entrepreneurs and alternative providers have arrived, and it’s an exciting time to live in this region. Bend is still growing and morphing (is there an end in sight?): Redmond and Sisters too. We are so fortunate to live, work and play in this beautiful community run by hardworking business owners who care about Central Oregon families. Let’s give them a shout out!

Cast your votes in print or online for the honor of Best of the Nest! Winners will be announced in our Summer issue.

BEST of the Nest Ballot Categories BEST HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS Best Pediatrician Best Pediatric Clinic / Practice Best Children’s Dental Practice Best Children’s Orthodontist Practice Best Children’s Optometrist Practice Best OB Best Midwife / Doula Best Alternative Healthcare Practice for Children and Families Best Speech Therapist / Pathologist Best Veterinarian

BEST OF EDUCATION Best Supplemental School Program Best Day Care Best Preschool Best Tutor Best Learning Specialist Best Arts Instruction Best Music Instruction Best Day Camp Best Summer Camp

Cast your vote online at: bendnest.com by 4pm, March 12 | BendNest.com

11th!

BEST OF RECREATION

Vote Here! or at

Best Place for a Playdate (indoor) bend

nest.com

Best Martial Arts School Best Kids Yoga Best Dance Studio Best Youth Sports Organization Best Place for a Child’s Birthday Party Best Family Night Out Best Place for Outdoor Family Fun

BEST OF DINING Best Kids Menu Best Family Restaurant Best Kid-Friendly Brewery Best Place for a Sweet Treat Best Family Take-Out Best Grocery Store Best Parents’ Date Night

BEST OF SHOPS & SERVICES Best Children’s Clothing Store Best Children’s Consignment Store Best Toy Store Best Photographer for Children and Families Best Nonprofit Serving Children

Instructions 1.

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Please submit only one ballot Fill in at least 10 categories Vote for locally owned businesses (no big boxes) Vote for one business no more than twice Mail or drop off print copies to: 704 NW Georgia Ave., Bend, OR 97703 Cast your vote online at: bendnest.com by 4pm, March 11 Tell all your friends!

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CULTURE Photo courtesy of Erickson Aircraft Collection – Madras, OR

HIDDEN GEMS

Lesser-known museums to explore in Central Oregon

By KM Collins & Nicole Blume

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s spring draws near, what better time to emerge from hibernation for an educational trip to a museum? Museums can spark curiosity, encourage creativity and critical thinking and broaden children’s worldview about history, culture, science and art. While we all know and love the High Desert Museum, did you know there are many lesser-known options in Central Oregon worth exploring?

Museum at Warm Springs

Set in a striking 25,000 square foot architectural masterpiece, the Museum at Warm Springs was founded to preserve and celebrate the history, culture and traditions of the three indigenous tribes that comprise The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs.

Designed to resemble a traditional encampment, the museum is nestled among cottonwood trees alongside Shitike Creek, and is built with stone, timber and brick embellished by traditional designs and symbols, including a drum, tipi, longhouse and patterns of a Klickitat huckleberry basket. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts rotating local tribal artist shows related to the Warm Springs Reservation and its people. It's website promises that, “visitors will experience firsthand the sounds of ancient songs and languages, the mastery of traditional craftsmanship and the sights of rich and colorful cultures.” Open 9-5PM, TuesdaySaturday museumatwarmsprings.org

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Erickson Aircraft Collection

Calling all history buffs and aviation lovers! Just north of Madras on Highway 26, the Erickson Aircraft Collection houses an astonishing collection of vintage aircraft and even a “living history flight experience” program called "Soaring with the Warbirds."

Families can experience history in flight and take a ride in a real, working World War II aircraft with expert pilots who fly over Lake Billy Chinook, Mt. Jefferson, Haystack Reservoir, Lake Stimtustus, Smith Rock or anywhere within the 20-minute time limit. “In the air you can experience the beauty of Central Oregon in a totally different perspective and have the experience of a lifetime,” exclaims its website. Open 10-5PM, Tuesday-Sunday ericksoncollection.com

Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory

There isn’t much this boutique nature center and observatory doesn’t offer. Interpretive displays, live animal exhibits, botanical gardens, nature trails and daily activities are all available for outdoor enthusiasts and stargazers. The observatory is best enjoyed at night, when young aspiring astronomers can view the starry skies through over a dozen telescopes, take a laser-guided constellation tour, check out the meteorite display, enjoy a star dome planetarium show or even build and launch their own rocket!

“Whether you are an early bird or a night owl, there’s an activity for everyone,” promises its website. Hours vary seasonally. snco.org

CULTURE Bowman Museum in Prineville

Located centrally in Prineville’s downtown strip, the Bowman offers a mix of old-time regional artifacts, interpretive displays and an exciting opportunity to experience a train car. Since 1971, this museum has been telling the story of Central Oregon. Peruse photos and read stories of locals from long ago, learn about sheepmen of the High Desert and check out its yearly rotating exhibits. Did you know Prineville was the first settlement for homesteaders in the early years of Central Oregon, way before cosmopolitan centers like Bend? Learn all about it at the Bowman Museum. Open 10-5PM, Tuesday-Friday and 11-4PM on Saturday crookcountyhistorycenter.org

Deschutes Historical Museum

Right in the center of downtown Bend is a real museum gem.

Offering community educational events like school visits and the History Pub at McMenamins, its reach extends further than its brick-and-mortar location. You can download its recently released Cruising 97 app to “cruise through history on your phone" and take a self-guided tour. Within its walls, the Deschutes Historical Museum features exhibits that allow you to explore what life has been like in Deschutes County from prehistory to the modern day. You and your child can learn more about local indigenous tribal history and the early exploration and fur trapping days in this region, homesteading in the High Desert and the logging and Forest Service history. The museum creates “a living legacy that embraces many stories and grows with each new generation,” according to its website. Open 10-4:30PM, Tuesday-Saturday deschuteshistory.org

Fort Rock Valley Historical Society Homestead

Just 64 miles southeast of Bend, the town of Fort Rock has preserved a collection of many original homestead buildings. Relish in a self-guided tour with information on each building via your smartphone. The Fort Rock Valley Historical Society website offers information on other local sites too, like Hole in the Ground and Crack in the Ground. If you visit the town of Fort Rock, a stop at the geological site also named Fort Rock is a can’t-miss opportunity.

Because it is exclusively outdoors, the museum is only open from May-September. fortrockoregon.com

One of the unique sculptures at Peterson Rock Garden

Peterson Rock Garden & Museum

En route to Redmond off Canal Boulevard, you’ll find an enchanting, one-of-a-kind stop. Listed in the Historic Registry, the Peterson Rock Garden began in 1935 when a Danish settler created his own wonderland filled with castles, fountains, towers and bridges on a large piece of land between Tumalo and Redmond. His whimsical miniature models of famous buildings and monuments like the Statue of Liberty are crafted entirely from found objects like bits of rock, glass and seashells. On site, discover the rock museum full of rare geodes, fossils, agates and more, and explore the meandering pathways revealing new treasures around every corner, including a plaque that advises, "Enjoy Yourself. It Is Later Than You Think."

Photo by K.M. Collins

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Recommended by Paige Bentley-Flannery Community Librarian at Deschutes Public Library

A is for Oboe: The Orchestra’s Alphabet

by Lera Auerbach and Marilyn Nelson, illustrated by Paul Hoppe

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o you have a favorite musical instrument? Young readers are sure to find theirs in this collection of poems. Why does the oboe play first? Meet the bassoon, a conductor and even a mellow clarinet. The authors offer engaging stories so you can follow along on a musical journey from A to Z! Enjoy a fabulous experience of musical chords, “eloquent grooves” and delightful new sounds. Hoppe’s illustrations are filled with gorgeous colors created with swirls of purple, blue, greens, yellows and reds. Readers will feel the music in motion on each page. Jazz? Percussion?

An Orchestra? What is your tempo? You’ll even meet a music librarian! Start with the letter A for a wonderful introduction to music for all ages.

Yule

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Faith Ringgold: Narrating the World in Pattern and Color

by Sharna Jackson, illustrated by Andrea Pippins

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his is an inspiring book in the new series, “What the Artist Saw,” created in collaboration with The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Meet artist and activist Faith Ringgold and discover her key artworks from 1986-2007. Jackson depicts Ringgold’s life as an artist and her political actions both in and out of the studio. Discover her history including quilting and African traditions from her family. Her first quilt, “Echoes of Harlem,” in 1980 was a series of painted portraits with a quilted border. Do you see words in her quilts? Learn about her life as an artist and try the “observation challenge” to make your own art. Beautiful and engaging, the illustrations are created with a variety of fonts and bold colors. Explore the “Try This” section and answer the questions throughout the book including, “What cause are you passionate about?” A glossary of terms is included. Also, check out her children's book, “Tar Beach,” at the library.

PARENTING

THE Next PHASE Important moments for parents of teens

By Annette Benedetti

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rom, “What to Expect When You are Expecting,” to an arsenal of books claiming to have the answers when it comes to raising young children, parents may be overwhelmed with parenting information the moment they find out baby is on the way.

But what happens when that child sheds their babyface for stubble or budding breasts? Suddenly the faucet of commercialized knowledge shuts off, and parents are left to navigate the murky waters of adolescence alone.

While there is no one right way to parent a teen, there are important times in an adolescent’s development when parents need to be present and prepared. The following are five of those moments with tips on how parents can show up in a way that helps their teen feel supported while building a bond with them.

Drugs and alcohol

At some point, your teen will be offered or seek out the opportunity to consume drugs and alcohol. Parents’ common reactions to this topic are either denial, “My child would never…” or a move to swift and severe punishment. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism suggests taking a different approach.

Instead, communicate with your child early in their adolescent development. Talk to them about the consequences of consumption at a young age, both physical and legal. As they make their way through their teen years, ask them open-ended questions about their experiences and create an environment that makes them feel safe coming to you with questions and their experiences. If you plan to implement consequences, agree on what they will be with your child ahead of time.

Gender identity

Finding out the gender of your child is one of the most exciting moments of a new parent’s life, so when your child comes to you either with questions or declarations about their gender identity (the gender they perceive themselves to be), it can be confusing. For many parents, the idea that gender is fluid or that their child may one day identify as a gender other than the one they were assigned at birth is difficult to understand. Get familiar with the following (and additional) gender terms in advance: non-binary, agender, bigender, and gender-fluid.

Sexuality

Your child’s sexuality (romantic or sexual attraction to others) will be developing fast. The most important thing a parent can do for their child at this time is to create an environment of acceptance, open communication and support. Don’t assume your child’s sexual orientation before they’ve had an opportunity to explore and discover it. Educate yourself on the topic and seek support if needed.

Sex

A parent’s role in educating their child about sex is essential. It’s your job to make sure your child gets accurate information about sex and sexual relationships. Make sure they are comfortable coming to you with questions both before and after they start having sex.

Along with the “how babies are made” talk, make sure your teen understands what healthy, respectful and consensual sex looks and feels like. Address pregnancy, STDs and STIs by providing factual information about prevention and treatment along with information on where your teen can go for sexual health services.

Safety

Safety is the single biggest concern parents have when it comes to the teen years. As your child ages, they become independent, and you have less control over what happens when they are away from you. The most important thing a parent can do during these years is to become the person they turn to for information, support and help in dangerous situations. Become the person they want to call when they’ve had a drink and need to get home. Become the person they lean on when they are questioning their gender or sexuality and experiencing depression.

Becoming the person your child turns to in the most physically, mentally and emotionally treacherous moments they face during their teen years requires removing judgment and shame from your relationship. It means educating yourself on the developmental and situational experiences they will be faced with and being prepared to offer acceptance and unconditional love even when moments arise that differ from the expectations you had when your teen was first born.

Daily meditation and a shot of tequila now and then definitely don’t hurt, either.

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EDUCATION

Rescue

Mission Substitute teachers provide much-needed stopgap to keep schools open

By Meghan Allsopp

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n the wake of the pandemic, there is now a serious shortage of licensed substitute teachers in Bend-La Pine Schools district.

Schools are feeling the crunch, and some classes are even closing temporarily due to severe staffing shortages.

Parents may wonder: What’s going on? Why is it so hard to keep schools open right now?

The ongoing staffing hurdle became a full-on barricade when in-person learning returned post-pandemic shutdown because trained, licensed substitutes were getting called into classrooms more than ever.

COVID protocols

Once in-person learning returned to BLPS February 2021, teachers needed not only to be healthy, but had to stay home when they had been exposed to a COVID-positive person. With so many regular teachers quarantining at home, substitutes became on-call essentials for schools to remain open.

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“To be clear, our goal is to keep our students learning inperson, every day, as we know that this is the best place for them academically, socially, mentally and emotionally,” announced the BLPS website’s Key Updates from Jan. 7, 2022. “We believe we have proven that, with mitigation strategies in place like masking, and distancing, our schools are among the safest places for our students. However, we cannot continue to provide on-site instruction in a safe environment if we do not have sufficient staffing…We are back-filling staff vacancies at every opportunity with staff from all departments, including administrators.”

And therein lies the rub: everyone wants to keep schools open, but teachers quarantining at home puts the brakes on that objective.

Substitute teaching license

Oregon requires substitutes to have a state teaching license.

This makes sense; however, the licensing requirement made staffing problematic even before the pandemic–teachers with a license are most likely already teaching full-time.

Thus, was born the “restricted substitute teacher license,” which is designed to allow someone with a bachelor’s degree and no state teaching license or provisional license to be a substitute.

EDUCATION They just need to be sponsored by their school district.

Sponsorship is effectively a formal plea from the district to the Oregon Department of Education Commission explaining that they need this person hired to protect the district's programs and students and resolve a staffing issue. These “restricted” licenses are granted under the premise that the district will provide proper vetting and supervision and licensing within 90 days of the license application.

“

Parents may wonder: What’s going on? Why is it so hard to keep schools open right now?"

Emergency subs

COVID-19 created the need for an even faster-tracked substitute teacher category: Emergency substitutes.

These are vetted “subs” who don’t have the experience or license but are hired during the pandemic and granted temporary licensing for a six-month period.

While this situation is no one’s vision of ideal, it at least allows kids to remain in school with their friends learning what they can while parents are at work. These are desperate measures for desperate times.

A Day in the Life of a Sub As a former full-time teacher at the Waldorf School of Bend, I was able to jump into the classroom of this private pre-K-8 school as a substitute right away. After a call on Sunday night just after winter break, I was greeting a second-grade class that very Monday morning.

“Good morning, Second Graders! My name is Miss Allsopp, and I will be your substitute teacher today.”

“Huh? What's your name? Miss SALSA?” giggled one student.

Once I figured out how to enunciate behind my muffling mask, the morning flew by. Their first task was a journal assignment answering the prompt: “Write two sentences on how you can help your parents at home.”

I was relieved to see the class follow my lead.

One hand sprang up shortly after I had a totally silent room; he wanted help spelling a word. “I am qualified to do that,” I thought.

“How do you spell ‘uhsectomy’?”

He smirked at me and looked to his classmates for a reaction.

“How do you spell “Vasectomy? How does that word go into a sentence about helping your ‘uhsectomy’?” parents at home?” I inquired.

“Because …you know… I help my dad at home with his uhsectomy… because he got one…you know…a uhsectomy,” turning to his second-grade audience, still no one reacting to him as he toyed with this adult word. Still, he waited for my spelling support.

“OK, you help your dad with his vasectomy? That is what you’d like to write as your answer?”

So, at 8:30 am, there I was spelling, “V-A-S-E-C-T-O-M-Y,” and the student skipped back to his desk admiring the word etched eternally in his journal. (I hoped his teacher would review it and get a laugh).

The day blew by with basketball at recess, reading “Magic Treehouse” and two-digit math problems with a coloring picture to go with it. We talked about Star Wars and Harry Potter at snack time.

3:15 rolled around and the head of school popped in to see if I ever wanted to come back, to which I responded, “I think they missed their teacher, but we made it to the end of the day in one piece.”

I love my remote day job. It’s quiet, predictable and low-stress, but guiding a group of second graders through their day was enlivening, charming and even made me feel like I was doing some good in the world.

The bottom line here is: We need you! Should you want to support our schools’ in-person learning by becoming a substitute teacher, go to High Desert Education Service District’s website: hdesd.org Spring 2022 | 19

COMMUNITY

STREET DOG HERO

Helps local Central Oregon families through rescue, adoption, spay/neuter, wellness and the Junior Heroes program

By Diana Fischetti

I

t was just before dawn when Street Dog Hero’s partners and volunteers set out on a snowy drive from Bend to Warm Springs.

This December day was weeks in the making, with coordination amongst Street Dog Hero, Fences for Fido, Humane Society of Central Oregon, volunteer veterinarians and medical staff, as well as the families living in Warm Springs.

The goal? To pick up 21 pet dogs on the lands of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, transport them to HSCO’s spay and neuter facility in Bend, provide free sterilization surgeries to those pups and get them back home to their owners by nightfall.

This was the first time SDH, FFF and HSCO had tried a strategy using a satellite clinic like this: picking up the dogs, transporting them to and from surgery and then bringing them home that same night.

The team worked well into the evening, and, with only one hiccup, the day was a success! In all, 17 pet dogs (plus nine free-roaming and three pet cats) were provided with essential spay and neuter services, and three families were thrilled to have their pups delivered back home. SDH, FFF and HSCO were grateful for the opportunity and for the families’ obvious trust and love for their pets.

SDH embodies a deep local commitment: rescuing homeless dogs and providing much-needed spay, neuter and wellness services to the communities that need them most, right here in Central Oregon. In fact, in 2021, SDH provided free or low-cost spay and neuter surgeries to 407 local dogs and cats as well as provided wellness services to 100 local animals in Warm Springs.

Surprisingly, one female dog if left unspayed and her unaltered puppies can produce around 67,000 unwanted puppies in the short span of only six years. Similarly, one unspayed cat and her young can produce around 420,000 kittens in that same time span. Many don’t survive, or sadly, spend their lives plagued by disease. Those that do survive go on to breed and continue the cycle.

Luckily, Junior Heroes, an SDH program whose mission it is to break the cycle, educates and inspires the next generation by engaging kids ages six and up in volunteering at events with foster dogs and at clinics. Today’s youth will make decisions in their lifetimes that will dictate the outcome for future dogs everywhere.

That’s why SDH also engages children in all regions served: offering the opportunity for participation and education at international pop-up clinics.

SDH also saves dogs across the globe from neglect, hunger and abuse, transports them to Oregon, provides them with veterinary care and then fosters them in loving homes until they are adopted into their “Furever Families.” In 2021, SDH rescued 522 dogs and seven cats.

Organizational rescue efforts last year were primarily focused in Central Oregon, Afghanistan, Albania, Armenia, British Virgin Islands, Guam, Mexico and South Korea. With knowledge of the impending withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan, SDH facilitated some of the most compelling rescues in 2021 including six dogs from Kabul Small Animal Rescue (KSAR).

“

20 | BendNest.com

Surprisingly, one female dog if left unspayed and her unaltered puppies can produce around 67,000 unwanted puppies in the short span of only six years.”

Also in 2021, SDH hired Diana Fischetti as its first executive director. Fischetti is thrilled to provide strategic direction and operational oversight for SDH. “Having fostered and adopted a dog from South Korea through SDH in 2017, I have a deep heart connection with the organization’s mission and work,” says Fischetti.

SDH envisions a world where all dogs are healthy, safe, well cared for and most importantly, wanted. Concentrating its efforts where animals are least likely to receive care, and focusing on the root causes of pet overpopulation, SDH serves dogs in need and their communities around the world, making lasting positive changes in the lives of dogs and their humans.

To learn more about the efforts of SDH or for volunteer information, visit their website: streetdoghero.org

CALENDAR

Photo by High Desert Museum

Roping on the ranch with Antonio Huerta at the High Desert Museum.

Saturdays & Sundays

Tuesdays

Fridays

PLAY – Kids Ninja Warrior gym is a wonderful space for kids to stay active and have fun! Both Toddler Open Play and Kids Open Play are available. This clean, fully padded space is full of fun-filled movement.

EXPLORE – Come on an adventure! Children ages 3-5 and their caregivers learn science, art, music and more together with an assortment of hands-on activities.

Borrow a backpack filled with exciting objects to aid in exploring the museum’s nature trails and exhibits. New themes are added each week for exploration!

PLAY – Join Amelia Airheart Monkey and Miss Hannah for a fun and uplifting interactive Zoom puppet show! All ages welcome, those three and under should be accompanied by a sibling or parent/caregiver to assist with interaction. Message ACORN School of Art & Nature on Facebook to request the Zoom link. 4-4:15pm

Kids Open Play

Free Spirit Yoga + Fitness + Play $15 1-day pass $130 10-day pass. freespiritbend.com

Backpack Explorers

High Desert Museum | $15 highdesertmuseum.org/ backpack-explorers

Amelia’s World Puppet Show

Online | Free facebook.com/acornartandnature

February 26

Youth Cooking Class-Strudel CREATE – Learn how to create a

simple and amazing dish known as strudel! Parents and children ages 7-17 are invited to this hands-on class where you’ll handstretch strudel dough from scratch and bake up a variety of different flavors. Saturday, 5:30-9pm.

Kindred Creative Kitchen | $50 kindredcreativekitchen.com

February 26

Hoodoo’s Winter Carnival

Photo by Sarah Peery

PLAY – The Winter Carnival has been a Hoodoo tradition for more than 40 years and is still going strong. Bring your friends and family to the premiere event of the

season that boasts ax throwing, frisbee golf, musical chairs and other carnival fun! A professional fireworks show is also scheduled for the event.

Hoodoo Ski Area | Free skihoodoo.com

February 26

OBOB Book Chatter

LISTEN – Join the fun with trivia, book chatter and craft instructions related to Catherine Doyle’s “The Storm Keeper’s Island,” which is one of the Oregon Battle of the Books titles for the 3rd to 5th grade division this year. Virtual event, Saturday, 10am.

Online | Free deschuteslibrary.org

February 26

The Green Tire Giveaway

EXPLORE – Here’s your chance to win a full set of Nokian tires at the Mt. Bachelor virtual scavenger hunt! To start finding clues Saturday morning at 9am, follow @mtbachelor on Instagram and keep up with their stories for clues to look out for while riding your favorite runs and seeking the hidden green tire. Only one lucky hunter will win the full set as a prize!

Sat., Feb. 26, 9am

Mt. Bachelor | free (prices vary for lift tickets) mtbachelor.com

Learn how to cut steel at DIY Cave’s kids welding class.

Spring 2022 | 21

CALENDAR project. All materials for building and constructing will be provided for participants.

DIYcave | $149-$178.80 diycave.com

March 5

Mad Science Family Program LEARN – Unleash your inner mad scientist and take part in tons of colorful, fun and messy experiments with the entire family!

Some experiments taking place include foamy volcanoes, rainbow rain, ghost bubbles and much more. All ages welcome; requires at least one adult present for each group.

Mini Ninja Warrior time at Free Spirit Yoga + Fitness + Play.

February 26 – February 27

MountainFilm on Tour – Bend – Virtual Event WATCH – Get ready for an

incredible round of documentary films perfect for Central Oregonian families! This hybrid film event will feature stories of adventure, climate change, culture and more.

This special event is a fundraiser for The Environmental Center.

Tune in any time during the threeday window.

Tower Theatre/Online | $10- $50 envirocenter.org

February 27

Know Comics – Film Screening: “Black Panther”

WATCH – Check out this free screening of Marvel Studios “Black Panther” at the Downtown Bend Public Library. After the film, take part in a discussion relating to the superhero who defends Wakanda, an advanced civilization hidden away from the world somewhere in Africa.

Downtown Bend Public Library | Free deschuteslibrary.org/calendar/ event/64605

February 28 - March 1 & 28 - 29

BPRD Kids' Woodworking

LEARN – Kids ages 11 and up will learn tons of great skills during this problem-solving and mathematics-focused course.

Curious youngsters will learn skills like measuring, cutting with a saw and building their own personal 22 | BendNest.com

Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory | $10-$12 snco.org

March 6

Author! Author! Event: Neil Gaiman

READ – Watch Neil Gaiman author of several novels and comic books such as “Coraline,” at this online author event hosted by the Deschutes Public Library. Gaiman holds numerous awards, as well as the Newberry and Carnegie medals, for his published works.

Log in to get to know an awesome author! Visit dplfoundation.org for more information. Sunday, time TBA.

Online | $35 dplfoundation.org

March 6

Bolshoi Ballet: Swan Lake

WATCH – Come enjoy one of ballet’s most beloved productions that embodies dramatic tension and heart-stopping beauty. Prima ballerina Olga Smirnova will lead the cast as the black and white swan in this modern-day ballet masterpiece.

March 11

Art Play Group

PLAY – Parents, grandparents and family get to connect with their child at the Art Station during this session! Each session will have a different activity that are based on developing creative thinking, sparking curiosity and inspiring independence and experimentation.

Art Station | $19-$22.80 bendparksandrec.org

March 12

Lucky Leprechaun 5k/10k Run & Walk

MOVE – Grab all your green gear and hop, skip, run or walk this chip-timed event. Live music will also be featured at this familyfriendly event.

Sisters Depot | $35-$45 runsistersrun.com

March 12

March 12

Puppetry Performance Workshop

LEARN – Come grab a kit that instructs 6-11-year-olds how to create a tree sculpture with only a paper bag. Celebrate spring with an awesome art piece; that creatively rings in the season.

Crafting tools and kits are available while supplies last.

Art Station | $65-78 bendparksandrec.org

Grab and Go Kits: Paper Bag Tree Sculpture

Deschutes Public Library | Free deschuteslibrary.org

LEARN – Learn to build puppets and perform with your creation.

This puppet workshop will teach the basics of building a simple puppet from around-the-home materials. After creating your character you will learn how to perform and bring to life your puppet. 1-4pm

March 16

March 12

Kids Welding

EXPLORE – Get ready for a fun-filled day of lessons, stories and cool teachings about Nordic culture that’s perfect for the entire family. Other activities included are Viking sword decorating, arrow shooting and ax throwing! Snag your free-heel skis and prepare for an awesome day of history and fun. Saturday, 9am-9pm.

DIYCave | $79-$94.80 diycave.com

Hoodoo’s Viking Fest

Hoodoo | Free skihoodoo.com

LEARN – In this hands-on class, kids will cut steel with a torch and weld those pieces back together.

They’ll learn some amazing skills and take their creations home with them. Take advantage of this powerful experience focused toward children. All skill levels are welcomed, and all materials are included with the class.

Regal Old Mill Cinema | $20 regmovies.com

March 10

Recycled Percussion

LISTEN – After being voted National Act of the Year six times, this smash-hit performing group is taking a pit stop here in Bend! Don’t miss this Las Vegas headlining group that first appeared and awed the country on “America’s Got Talent!”

Tower Theatre | $30-$50 towertheatre.org

Don’t miss this virtual OBOB Book Chatter, featuring "The Storm Keeper’s Island," at the Deschutes Public Library.

CALENDAR Spring Break

CAMPS March 21 – March 25

Art-Rageous Camp

Photo by High Desert Museum

Art Station | $130-$156 bendparksandrec.org

Sky Hunters is an unforgettable experience at the High Desert Museum.

March 22

Sheet Metal Art Class

LEARN – Come learn how to use a torch to cut creative forms from sheet metal. Plus, learn to hammer the artwork into shape and braze on a hook for display use. This exciting class provides a great introduction to the world of metal art and sculpture.

DIYCave | $79-$94.80 diycave.com

March 23 – March 30

Sky Hunters

LEARN – Experience raptors taking flight overhead in this intimate demonstration. Here’s a chance to witness these powerful predators like never before as wildlife specialists showcase the birds’ agility and grace. 11am1:30pm.

High Desert Museum | $5 highdesertmuseum.org/sky-hunters

March 24 – March 26

High Desert Stampede Rodeo

WATCH – Bring the whole family to this fast-paced and entertaining event. Cheer on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association as performers take on steer wrestling, barrel racing and more!

Deschutes County Expo Center | $20-$30 highdesertstampede.com

March 26

Hoodoo’s Rodeo Daze

PARTY – Celebrate the rodeo being in town up at Hoodoo! Enjoy a chili cook-off and free mechanical bull rides in the lodge.

Western attire is encouraged, so bust out those boots and 10-gallon hats in celebration of the West.

Hoodoo Ski Area | Free

skihoodoo.com

March 30

Nature Nights: American Pikas and Climate Change

LEARN – Tune in and learn about the fuzzy little creatures known as the American Pika with Dr. Matt Shinderman and the Deschutes Land Trust on Zoom. This virtual event will feature discussions related to these intriguing animals.

Space is limited and registration for the event is required.

7-8:30pm.

Online | Free deschuteslandtrust.org

April 9

Hoodoo’s Spring Fling

PARTY – Say bye to winter and hello to spring with a late-season sun celebration. Spend the day soaking in the rays while also participating in a costume contest and the Pond Skimming Battle Royale. 9am-9pm.

Hoodoo | Free skihoodoo.com

April 13 – April 15

No School Days Camp: Spy School

EXPLORE – Experience a fun and exciting mystery filled with secret clues, escape rooms and more!

Also, little spies can take part in a scavenger hunt and make their own spy crafts.

PLAY – Discover your creative side and dabble in lots of different art supplies like painting, pastels, clay and more! The possibilities are endless, so check out this creative studio and start on the world’s next big masterpiece.

9am-4pm.

April 16

Roping on the Ranch with Antonio Huerta

LEARN – Come meet a real-deal charro who embodies Mexican traditions that go back more than 500 years! Antonio Huerta will perform roping techniques and share the rich heritage of Mexican people with museum visitors. The event takes place at the 1904 Miller Family Ranch.

High Desert Museum | Free with museum admission highdesertmuseum.org

April 16

Kid's Adventure Days

PLAY - Come join for exciting activities in and around Bend.

Activities may include sledding, adapted biking, arts & crafts, accessible hikes and games. This program is available to kids with disabilities and their siblings or friends! 9:30am -1pm,

Harmon Park | $45-$54 bendparksandrec.org

March 21 - March 25

No School Days Camp: Pack Your Passport EXPLORE – Send your child to Camp Fire for a week filled with travels across the globe! Each day, kids will learn about different cultures from around the world and they’ll even get a passport to stamp each country they visit. To register, visit campfireco.org.

Camp Fire Central Oregon | $62 campfireco.org

March 21 – March 25

KPOV Radio Camp

LEARN - KPOV will teach you how to be a DJ, interview a friend, tell a story with sound effects, music, and humor. The show produced will be broadcast on 88.9 fm, and you'll get a copy to take home!

9am-Noon

KPOV | $105-$126 bendparksandrec.org

April 23

Little Fry Run

MOVE – Help your little fry hatch into a runner—enter them into the Little Fry Run, a part of the Pacific Source Kids Rock the Races series! The Little Fry Run is a non-competitive, healthy event for kids ages 3-10. Everyone receives a finisher’s ribbon for participating.

Salmon Run | $7 bendraces.com/salmon-run/register/

Camp Fire Central Oregon | $62 campfireco.org

Spring 2022 | 23

Dine In

Take Out

Delivery

VOTED Bend, Oregon’s For 24 Years!

CENTRAL OREGON

(541) 330-9093 811 NW Wall St.

WINNER

Downtown

PizzaMondoBend.com Bend – La Pine’s ONLY tuition-free Montessori Elementary Charter School

Lottery places open now for K – 6th grade.

Desert Sky Montessori is a Bend – La Pine School District Charter School choice option for children entering kindergarten through 6th grade. This year families can apply to as many choice options that they choose including all district charter and magnet schools. Desert Sky’s lottery is open from January 3rd to March 18th but we accept applications for our waitlist ALL YEAR! Applications received after March 18th will be added to the waitlist in the order they are received.

Join us for our informational open house and school tour March 1 6pm – 7pm at 150 NE Bend River Mall Dr #260 March 3 6pm – 7pm VIRTUAL ON ZOOM

https://signup.com/go/TMrwwjW BIG NEWS FOR DESERT SKY! We are moving to a new location with 5 acres in Northwest Bend for the 2022 - 2023 school year.

Visit our website for more information www.dsmontessori.org 24 | BendNest.com

FAMILY TIME

Spring Sides

Peas, asparagus, scallions and potatoes are among the season’s best veggies

By Donna Britt @foodlifelove.com | Photos by Tambi Lane

Brighten Family Meals

S

Sugar Snap Pea & Cucumber Salad

Asparagus Radish Salad

Garlic Roasted New Potatoes

Ingredients:

Ingredients:

Snap Peas are in season from late winter through spring. This pretty salad featuring the crunchy peas is very fresh and takes very little time to put together.

The kiddos will love the sweet-tasting peas. Serves 4-6.

• • • • •

1 pound sugar snap peas, ends trimmed 1 red onion, halved and thinly sliced 3 small cucumbers, thinly sliced ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh dill ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh mint

Dressing: • • • • • •

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon honey 1 small shallot, minced (or 1 tablespoon minced white onion) • Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water (a couple of pinches of salt) to boil. Fill a large bowl with ice water. Drop the snap peas into the boiling water and cook for 1 minute. Drain the peas and immediately plunge them into the ice water.

2. To make the vinaigrette, whisk all the ingredients together in a large bowl.

3. Drain the cooled peas and add them to the vinaigrette in the bowl along with the onion, cucumbers, dill, and mint. Toss to combine.

Crispy asparagus and crunchy spring radishes make for a nice spring salad on the side. Radishes harvested in the spring are usually smaller and more delicate tasting than their later-season cousins. Serves 4-6.

• 1-pound fresh asparagus, bottom ends trimmed and cut into bite size pieces • 6-8 small radishes, thinly sliced • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Dressing: • • • • • • • • •

2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons thinly sliced scallion (green onion) 1 tablespoon white wine or rice wine vinegar 1 tablespoon lemon juice 2 teaspoons honey 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard ¼ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon grated lemon zest ¼ teaspoon pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, bring 6 cups water to a boil. Meantime, fill a large bowl with ice water.

Carefully add asparagus to the boiling water and boil for 3 minutes. Drain and immediately place asparagus in ice water. Drain the asparagus and pat it dry with paper towels.

2. Transfer the asparagus to a large bowl.

Add radishes and sesame seeds. Whisk dressing ingredients together in a small bowl then pour the dressing over the asparagus/ radishes. Toss well to coat the veggies with dressing.

weet peas, asparagus and bright green scallions mean spring has sprung in local gardens and greenhouses.

Brighten up your family meals with these easy spring side dishes featuring the season’s best!

Another great spring vegetable perfect for a side dish is new potatoes. New potatoes are small, young potatoes harvested in the springtime. They have thin, wispy skins and a crisp waxy texture and typically keep their shape once cooked. Serves 4-6.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds small red, yellow, white, or purple new potatoes, washed but unpeeled • ¼ cup olive oil • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 6 cloves) • 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. Cut the potatoes in half and place in a large bowl with the olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic. Toss until the potatoes are well coated. Spread potatoes onto a sheet pan in one layer. Roast in the oven for 45-60 minutes until browned and crispy. Flip a couple of times with a spatula during roasting to ensure even browning. Remove the potatoes from the oven and toss with parsley before serving. Best served hot.

Eating produce in season is ideal simply because the vegetables are at their peak, which means more flavor, utmost nutritional value and typically lower prices. The High Desert Food & Farm Alliance is a great local resource for locating Central Oregon farms and foods.

Donna Britt is the creator of the Food.Life podcast at foodlifelove.com. Follow on Instagram @donnabrittcooks.

Spring 2022 | 25

HEALTH

Generation How to help pandemic babies thrive Story by Nicole Blume and photos by Jayde Silbernagel

A

s we approach the second anniversary of the pandemic, parents of children born during this unique time may have questions about their child’s social and emotional development.

Questions like: How has social distancing affected my infant?

Has my baby received enough human contact to recognize facial emotions? Will my toddler’s speech and language development be delayed? Will they know how to share, care and play cooperatively when they’ve missed out on preschool, play dates and birthday parties?

Dr. Jessica Goyke and her “pandemic baby” Rory near Dillon Falls.

26 | BendNest.com

For local parents like Dr. Jessica Goyke, a chiropractor and mother of 14-month-old Rory, this issue is top of mind.

“We were happy to find out we were pregnant in early March of 2020 with our first son,” says Goyke. “When the pandemic began, my first concern was missing the opportunities to connect with other pregnant moms in prenatal yoga classes or birthing prep. The reality of this really hit me when Rory was born and we didn’t have the opportunities I dreamed of for him growing, developing and thriving. I wondered how this might affect him physically, mentally and emotionally.”

These are valid questions. We know that young children experience explosive brain growth early on that lays the foundation for critical cognitive, emotional and social skills. Ample research in pediatric cognitive science supports the vital importance of this time for later health, development and well-being.

According to the nonprofit organization Zero to Three, “A child’s brain undergoes an amazing period of development from birth to age three—producing more than a million neural connections each second. The development of the brain is influenced by many factors, including a child’s relationships, experiences and environment.”

So, what happens when a global pandemic and widespread economic shutdowns interrupt this developmental window of opportunity for brain growth?

The bad news first, without sugarcoating it: An alarming U.S. study on child neurodevelopment claims that children born during the Covid-19 pandemic have a shocking 22-point lower IQ than babies born before the pandemic, with effects especially pronounced for male children and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds (Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Early Child Cognitive Development: Initial Findings in a Longitudinal Observational Study of Child Health).

This large, on-going longitudinal study at Brown University assessed approximately 700 healthy children aged between three months and three years on key metrics, including babbling, crawling and rolling over in babies' and fine and gross motor control, visual reception and expressive language for toddlers using the Mullen Scales of Early Learning system, which converts these metrics into IQ scores. According to the results, participating children displayed significantly reduced verbal, motor and overall cognitive performance compared to their pre-pandemic-born peers.

Researchers theorize that the combination of face masking, quarantining and other social distancing measures, school and playground closures and other policies meant to slow the spread of COVID-19 have contributed to these adverse effects.

HEALTH

Simple Exercises “While there is no past analogue or example of non-conflict related wide-spread and prolonged lock-downs from which to draw information, concern for child development stemmed principally from the known impact that family and home stress, parent and child anxiety, lack of stimulating environments and other economic and environmental adversities can have on the developing infant and child brain,” says the study.

Next, the good news: children are resilient. If the main reason for the falling cognitive test scores is a lack of stimulation at home and less social interaction outside, then the way to counteract this impact is to provide more quality contact time and responsive stimulation. This is something every parent can give their child for free—no money, fancy toys or specialty toddler classes required.

“Children are incredible at informing us of their needs; they find ways to play even when there are no toys and they communicate until they get what they need, even before they speak words,” says Goyke. “Through all of this I’ve reminded myself that a child’s main need is an attentive, present, loving caregiver. This may not be the start we imagined for our children, but we can still provide an optimal foundation by being attentive parents.”

“

“Children are incredible at informing us of their needs; they find ways to play even when there are no toys and they communicate until they get what they need, even before they speak words.”

Of course, there is no denying that, while we love our children beyond measure, our attention may be in short supply these days given the demands of working in-person or from home, economic hardship and increased stress. Fortunately, more employers are recognizing the dual demands of childrearing and work and are giving employees a break when it comes to interrupting a conference call to attend to a crying child.

“I’ve adapted my work schedule to be more present with my son,” says Goyke. “It feels important for me to be a primary caretaker during these uncertain times.”

In addition, there are other resources to support parenting. Zero to Three has some helpful guides for families on topics such as self-care, age-appropriate responses to common questions and activities for young children experiencing social distancing.

Connecting with other parents of young children in similar situations (either online or in real life) can also reduce isolation.

The key to providing a stimulating, varied and responsive environment is to focus on the many daily opportunities for playful social interactions between young children and their caregivers. Simple, no-cost activities centered around talking, singing, dancing, laughing, reading and playing will help little ones not just survive, but thrive.

“These times have taught me just how vital it is to be intentional with my energy and time,” says Goyke. “I really want to be present and have energy for my son because I can see how powerfully that pours into his development.”

to promote healthy connection and development in infants and toddlers

Sing in the car on your way to the grocery store with your young one in tow.

Read the food labels aloud as you shop and talk to your baby about what’s on the menu.

When cooking, turn on the music and dance around the kitchen as your toddler twirls beside you.

After dinner, make a game out of washing the dishes—what young child doesn’t love a big bucket of soapy water?

Commit to one more bedtime story (even if it’s a quick one while changing into pajamas).

Turn out the light knowing you are an amazing parent doing an extraordinary job in extraordinary times.To quote The Beatles, “All you need is love…”

Spring 2022 | 27

OUTDOORS

Gardening It’s

Time!

Tips for facing the challenge of high desert growing

By Joshua Savage

A

t the first sign of spring, with warmer days ahead, many of us are excited to get outside and play.

We are ready to start tinkering in the garden and dreaming of the season’s abundance.

Wait a minute, not so fast! This isn’t the Willamette Valley, where rain is plentiful and vegetation grows easily. No, this is the High Desert, and here in Central Oregon gardening requires patience and persistence.

These are great attributes for kids to learn, not to mention that gardening provides an opportunity to teach children other valuable

Photo by Joshua Savage

The author’s daughters, Sofi and Kaia, in the garden 28 | BendNest.com

practical skills and show them where our food originates. Plus, a bit of exercise and sunshine has endless benefits for physical health and emotional well-being.

Yet the cold, the wind and the deer—these are all factors that can frustrate even the master gardener. But don’t despair, because a rewarding garden can be created and maintained even here in the High Desert. Luckily, plentiful local resources exist to help us learn about native species and what to plant in our area to maximize our chances of gardening success.

One of my favorite resources is the Central Oregon Gardeners group on Facebook because the members are interactive and always helpful. If I ask a question, I usually get a quick answer.

Oregon State University also has tons of downloadable information to reference online, and its years of research and experience makes them a reputable source. The college even offers related gardening courses, as well. The SEEK app, though not always accurate, is helpful to identify plant and animal species in real-time from your iPhone photos.

For a more hands-on approach, my daughters and I have volunteered at The Environmental Center. We’ve planted tomatoes, watered the garden, moved mulch and helped in whatever manner needed. In addition, Deschutes Land Trust events are very informative and fun, as knowledgeable guides lead walks on the nature preserves and point out local plant species. More recently, they have been offering Nature Nights on Zoom, too, completely free of charge.

Our family loves to spend time in the yard. Coming from an area of the country where everything grows with ease, it took us a while to learn and adapt to the High Desert. Truthfully, we are still learning.

One of our first discoveries was how quickly the temperatures drop in the evenings. When planting, it is necessary to wait until the frosts pass, or at the very least, cover plants at night. Those lucky residents with a greenhouse are a step ahead of the game because they can extend their growing season.

OUTDOORS Photos by Joshua Savage

BEFORE Since we have no greenhouse, we plant starters inside the house near windows with ample sunlight. As one of their chores, my daughters water them regularly. When the frosts pass, or when “Black Butte has no more snow,” as locals have told me, it’s finally time to plant outside.

We’ve discovered that native plant species grow best, and in addition, they have other benefits like being more drought tolerant and attracting pollinators. Some examples are Manzanita, Wax currants, Oregon Grape and Snowbush. It’s also possible to collect them on public land to add to your own landscape. In fact, the U.S. Forest Service recommends using native species, but be sure to get a permit and read the regulations first.

For culinary enthusiasts, we recommend herbs like mint, thyme and oregano, which grow well, and those pesky deer rarely eat them. Of course, when hungry enough, the deer eat anything, so the best bet is a tall fence. Sunflowers, irises, poppies and many brightly colored flowers also grow well here. Even certain fruit species and other deciduous trees like the Autumn Blaze maple, which boasts the fiery red color in fall, can prosper in our climate, but be warned these plants usually require more care.

When we first purchased our lot, it was barren. To enrich the sterile soil, we bought loads of mulch from the landfill, which was

AFTER reasonably priced. We planted clover. The deer love it, but it grows rapidly and has added much-needed nitrogen which is essential for growing. Using what surrounds us, we created beds and pathways with lava rock, and we constantly amend the soil with more mulch and other organic material.

As folks who have always loved gardening, we have adapted during our time here. Frustrations come and go, but the rewards far outweigh them. Our future food forest is a work in progress, but it’s work we enjoy. We continue to experiment with what grows and what doesn’t. The neighbors and longtime locals may think we are crazy, but to us, it’s fun and exciting!

Spring 2022 | 29

THINGS I'VE LEARNED

Meet Ranae Staley, Executive Director, The Giving Plate

R

ecently, The Giving Plate, a local non-profit that runs a food pantry in Bend for those in need, earned a $15,000 award reserved for the organization that raised the most funds as part of the 2021 Central Oregon Gives campaign. The organization raised more than $259,000!

At the helm is Ranae Staley, Executive Director.

She has been with The Giving Plate since her parents, Gary and Debi Kelso, founded the organization in 2010. Ranae has lived in Bend for 28 years, graduated from Bend High in 1997 and has been married to her husband, Mat, for 17 years. She has three children: Naomi, 14 years old, Isaac 10, and Rebekah, 8 and one spoiled fur baby, Finn.

Photo by Meredith J Photography

Q&A What is a special moment in your parenting life that you'll never forget?

Having had a C-section for each of my babies’ births, I enjoyed extended stays in the hospital.

Those first days with my babies will always be something special I carry in my heart. Meeting them for the first time and having an overwhelming wave of love overtake me, staring at their faces and soaking in the details…those are moments I will cherish forever.

What adjectives come to mind when you think about raising kids in 2022?

Adaptable—staying open to change is essential to keeping sanity while lovingly guiding our kids through this new landscape.

If you could travel back in time and give yourself one piece of parenting advice as you embarked on that journey, what would it be?

Don’t compare your journey to other parents’ journeys. Your story is unique, and you will always do your best for your family. Your love for your kids will guide you. Don’t feel pressured to keep up with other parents or have your kids keep up.

What was the best parenting decision you ever made?

This is a tough one, but I would say that right now, I am really glad that my kids don’t have phones.

There is plenty enough vying for their attention. I know they will need them one day, but for today, I am glad they don’t have them.

What do you think the world needs more of now?

Connection. We have lost the gift of truly knowing how to connect with people. We, as humans, were created for connection and not 30 | BendNest.com

connection that comes through a screen. People are longing to be known and seen, but we are so busy “connecting” via technology that we are losing the ability to relate in-person. This worries me for our children and their children.

What do you believe about yourself that helped you become successful and deal with hard times?

I didn’t come into my position with special degrees or titles behind my name, and at times I felt unqualified.

My passion for the work I do, and my deep-rooted faith were key to navigating trying times. My work isn’t just a job for me. Advocating for food-insecure individuals is a passion, and when you are passionate, you are willing to learn and grow even when it is hard.

People love sharing their journeys, and I have made some incredible friends/mentors from pursuing these kinds of friendships.

How do you define success in your life?

I feel the most fulfilled and successful when I get to talk to the people that have been impacted

by The Giving Plate and hear from them how much this organization has helped them in some of their darkest times. Their stories inspire me and light a fire inside me to continue on while finding better and more creative ways to show up in their times of need.

How will your children change the world one day?

My biggest hope for my children as they grow is that they will find their own passions. And that in doing that, they won’t just chase a paycheck but will find ways to impact lives around them. I hope that they will always remember the value of others and stay humble as they pursue their passion.

Race Schedule 2022

TH

HOT COCOA RUN

Deschutes County Expo Center

LITTLE FRY RUN

Athletic Club of Bend

HAPPY LITTLE KIDS RUN

Riverbend Park

Troy Field

KIDS SUMMER SPRINT BALLOON BLAST

Central Oregon Community College

HARVEST RUN

Troy Field

Participate in Central Oregon’s childrens-only running series and win great prizes

IMAGINE the kids in your family

looking forward to visiting the dentist!

That’s just the kind of experience you’ll find at Deschutes Pediatric Dentistry in Bend and Redmond! With an atmosphere conducive to the needs of children and the scope of services that parents are looking for, the Deschutes Pediatric Dentistry team is one of the most highly recommended pediatric dental offices in Central Oregon!

400 SW Bond St. Suite 100, Bend 3818 SW 21st St. Suite 102, Redmond CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

(541) 389 - 3073

DESCHUTESKIDS.COM Includes exam, cleaning & fluoride First visit only Introducing Dr Stephanie Woolsey!