Bend Nest Spring 2018

SPRING 2018

parenting magazine

TRENDING

Mother’s Day Hacks

CULTURE

BES T of the

Nest

Road Trip!

SPECIAL SECTION

Summer Camps Guide

OUTDOORS

School Gardens

2018 Winners

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 1

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BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 3

WE’RE #1 BECAUSE THEY’RE #1

OREGON’S TOP RANKED CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL. Kids deserve our best — every day. So Doernbecher brings together more children’s specialists than anywhere else in the region. That’s made us the only children’s hospital in Oregon to earn specialty rankings among the best in the country.

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BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 5

Farm to Table FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS

Westside Eastside

541.647.2198 | 845 NW DELAWARE AVE. 541.382.1751 | 1500 NE CUSHING SUITE 100

JACKSONSCORNERBEND

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BREAKFAST | LUNCH | DINNER

of the

SPRING ISSUE

Publisher

Aaron Switzer

Editor

Angela Switzer

Associate Editors

Amanda Klingman

Nicole Vulcan

Contributing Writers

Annette Benedetti

Danielle Myers

Howard Leff Lizzi Katz

K.M. Collins

Jill Dyer Chris Miller

Calendar Editor

Keely Damara

Design & Layout

Euijin Gray

Photography

K.M. Collins

Natalie Stephenson Photography

Caitlin von Gaertner

Advertising Executives

Amanda Klingman Ashley Sarvis Ban Tat Chris Larro

Spring Issue Cover Painting “Waiting For Spring” by MaryLea Harris

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

of the

of the

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS, THANK YOU FOR VOTING

ZYDECO BEST DATE NIGHT IN 2018!

Z Y D E C O K I T C H E N & C O C K TA I L S , 9 1 9 B O N D , B E N D 541.312.2899

ZYDECOKITCHEN.COM BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 7

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

Learn 5 steps to better protect children from sexual abuse.

Take Darkness to Light: Stewards of ChildrenÂŽ

Enrich.

Explore.

Expand. Sean

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Mon, April 9, 4-7pm Tues, April 24, 4-7pm Wed, May 30, 4-7pm

For more info or to sign up, call 541.383.5958 or visit:

Kidscenter.org of the

Winner

CONTENTS UPFRONT

11 EDITOR’S NOTE 13 EXPERT Q & A 14 BY THE NUMBERS 17 NEST NEWS

SECTIONS

19 TRENDING 37 CALENDAR 42 SUMMER CAMPS 45 CULTURE 48 HEALTH 54 KIDS IN ACTION

20 EDUCATION What exactly is IB? Nicole Vulcan takes the mystery out of this internationally-recognized curriculum.

34 ADULT TIME

of the

Winners P24

Self-care tips by Jill Dyer make a world of difference when it comes to conquering anxiety.

50 OUTDOORS Not only are school gardens a whole lot of fun, turns out they’re educational too!

Discover exciting new gardening practices, including aquaponics.

DEVELOPING VISION FOR LIFE. Elemental Services

Our goal is to provide a vision care experience to the children of Central Oregon that is absolutely the best.

EYEWEAR EXAMINATION VISION THERAPY

Optometric Physicians Board Certified in Vision Therapy

by COVD.

Amanda Balsalobre, OD FCOVD Gabby Marshall, OD FCOVD

elementaleyecare.com

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 9

Thank You Central Oregon for voting

Namaspa #1 for

Children’s Yoga

and Congratulations to Our Wonderful Teachers!

Classes Available at the Bend & Redmond Studios

of the

(541) 550-8550 www.namaspa.com Photos Courtesy of Deven Sisler

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EDITOR’S NOTE

T

his is an exciting issue! The results are in...and we present to you the Best of the Nest winners! What an inspiring group of businesses that go that extra mile to make Central Oregon such a family-friendly place to live.

Thanks for voting and congrats to all the winners!

It’s almost Mother’s Day. Instead of shopping online or bringing home flowers, why not help Mom with some hacks? Annette Benedetti’s creative tips are sure to give you some ideas. If you’re a new mom, do read Jill Dyer’s self-care article. She breaks down a routine for taking care of that one person that needs it most. You know the saying, “If Momma Ain’t Happy…”

Rounding out the school year with only a couple months to go, now’s the time for some planning. If you need to fill your children’s time with a little structure, check out our Summer Camps section. There are some amazing camp offerings out there.

While school is still in, learn more about the IB program at Bend High. Nicole Vulcan outlines information on this type of diploma as well as other schools who offer the

program. On another school-related topic, you may have heard that your child’s school is implementing a curriculum to raise child sexual abuse awareness, certainly a difficult topic, and one that needs some real attention. Annette Benedetti’s article explains the reasons for bolstering existing programs.

If winter is dragging on, maybe a road trip to Ashland could be just the thing. Chris Miller takes you along on his journey south to the land of Shakespeare. Don’t miss K.M. Collins’ piece on school gardens, covering aquaponics and traditional gardens, while highlighting positive outcomes for students.

And, you’re in for a real treat: in Kids in Action, Lizzi Katz interviews Miina McCown, a darling young artist, who blew the competition out of the water at the recent Scholastic Art Awards. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we did putting it together. All the best!

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Q&A Dr. Logan Clausen CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER

CENTRAL OREGON PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES

Q

When my kids were little, we were all about the checkups and vaccination

schedule. Now that they are older, do we

need to schedule a check-up annually? At what age can we stop?

A

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends yearly well-child checks for ALL children 3 years and older, and we at COPA agree. For older kids and teens, in addition to the physical exam, we talk to them about topics that are important in their lives. We discuss things like stress management, social pressures, body changes, preventing sports injuries, safe driving, among other age-specific topics. It’s a great chance to check in with our teens and make sure they are as thriving, happy and healthy as possible. When kids start high school, many need a sports physical assessment, which is also included in the well-child exam.

Q

Recently, my child had an upper respiratory illness. She never had a fever

but coughed for a long time. If there is no fever, how long should you wait before

seeing a doctor? Additionally, how long

should you wait before sending your child back to school?

A

The cough that comes with a viral illness can be really impressive and often lasts longer than the rest of the symptoms like runny nose. Typically,

a cough with a viral illness can last about 10-14 days, sometimes longer for certain viruses like Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Generally, you should see your pediatrician if your child’s cough is worsening rather than improving after the rest of the symptoms have started improving, if your child has any increased work of breathing like breathing quickly or using extra muscles to breathe, if your child has new fevers, lethargy, not drinking fluids well or other concerns. For most viruses, we say it’s ok to go back to school after there has been no fever for 24 hours and your child is nearing his/her baseline for energy level and eating and drinking.

Q

My second-grader has not mentioned anything about the recent events

surrounding gun violence and does not

seem to know about it. We do not watch the news around him nor does he have

access to social media, but he may hear about it from another child. Is it better

to approach it first or wait to see if it is something he is concerned about?

A

This has become such an important topic lately. I think it’s better to plan a time where you both sit down and talk about it, and you present the information in a way that allows for healthy discussion about their feelings and concerns, allowing plenty of time for them to

share. No matter what age your child is, a good place to start the discussion is ask what they have already heard and what questions they might have.

It’s a good idea to share the basics of the information, but avoid the news and graphic images or descriptions. It can be a straightforward statement such as “ In ______ (city/state) there was a ______[disaster/tragedy/event/incident/ shooting] and many people were hurt.

Right now ______ [police/government/ fire department] are working hard at their jobs to try to make sure it doesn’t happen again.” Make sure you reassure your child that it’s ok to be upset by these things, and that you are there for them. If they are showing signs of not coping well, such as sleep problems or nightmares, changes in appetite, new reports of headaches or abdominal pain, or changes in behavior like not wanting to play with friends or increased anxiety, please talk to your child’s pediatrician or mental health professional. There are a few really good resources out there for parents at the websites HealthyChildren. org and ZerotoThree.org: healthychildren.org/English/family-life/

Media/Pages/Talking-To-Children-AboutTragedies-and-Other-News-Events.aspx

zerotothree.org/resources/2068-stayingsteady-in-the-face-of-tragedy-guidancefor-parents-of-young-children

SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS ANGELA@BENDNEST.COM BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 13

Celebrate

EARTH DAY!

H

elp your kids become stewards of the earth

by involving everyone in the recycling routine.

Save this sorting guide as a reference for the whole family!

HOW TO Sort YOUR WASTE BINS

GLASS PAPER PRODUCTS TIN & ALUNIMUM PLASTICS

YARD DEBRIS & RAW FOOD WASTE

Put these into your Glass Bin!

No need to separate (labels are OK!)

Beer bottles Wine bottles Olive oil bottles

PAPER PRODUCTS Newspaper Paper soda/beer cartons Junk mail Wrapping paper (no foil lining) Shredded paper

TIN & ALUMINUM

(remember to wash and slosh)

Cans

Grass clippings Brush

Aluminum foil Pie tins

Plant prunings

Aluminum dinner trays

Pine Cones

Cereal boxes (remove plastic lining)

PLASTICS

Paper egg cartons

Plastic bottles & tubs (6 ounces or larger)

Branches (no longer than 36”) Sod & clean dirt

Magazines & catalogs

Plastic Buckets 5 gallons or less

DO NOT PUT THESE INTO YARD DEBRIS

Paper bags

Milk jugs

Lumber, Rocks, Gravel Metal, Plastics, Trash Plastic Bags

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No dishes No ceramic No window glass

Weeds Trimmings

Raw Food Waste

Corrugated cardboard

Mason jars

Pine Needles

Rigid Plastic Plant Pots 4” or larger

Paper towel/toilet paper tubes

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The only thing we 100% recycle in Central Oregon.

Beverage cans

Computer paper

Shoe boxes

YARD DEBRIS & RAW FOOD WASTE

550 Tons

of Trash Go to Knott Landfill EACH DAY

BY THE NUMBERS

WASH & SLOSH The #1 recycling obstacle is CONTAMINATION. Keep out plastic bags, non-recyclable items and garbage. Rinse your recyclable containers.

RECYCLING MYTH Those plastic takeaway/berry containers are recyclable.

THE TRUTH

THEY’RE NOT RECYCLABLE! Use glass takeaway containers or buy berries in paper.

Recycle Bend Nest Each ton of recycled paper can save 17 trees.

REMOVE CAPS Whether plastic or metal — lids get stuck in conveyor belts during sorting so be sure to remove ALL lids before you recycle.

34%

Recycle

66%

Landfill

SAVE ENERGY

It takes the same amount of energy to make 24 recycled cans as it does to make one new one.

AN Average Bend Household’s Waste BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 15

COMMITTED TO TAKING CARE OF WOMEN IN OUR COMMUNITY No one knows women like we do.

Our caring providers have been trusted by women in Central Oregon for over 20 years, and we’re proud of the differences we’ve made in the lives of our patients and families.

As our community has grown, so has our healthcare family. With a commitment to compassionate and comprehensive care, we’ve added new doctors and staff and are currently taking patients.

We’re here for you every step of the way — at every age, every stage and every milestone.

eastcascadewomensgroup.com | (541) 389-3300

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NEST NEWS

By Danielle Meyers

Hurray for Hard-Working Students!

Bend La-Pine Schools’ Graduation Rate Highest in History

Last year’s Bend-La Pine Schools Class of 2017 marked an all-time high for the percentage of students graduating on time, according to the U.S. Department of Education.

The Department of Education computes an adjusted graduation rate for states by tracking students beginning in the 9th to 12th grades, adjusting for students that transfer in and out. Oregon as a whole has a graduation rate of 73.8 percent, but Bend continues to outpace the state with an average of 78.7 percent.

Deputy Superintendent Jay Mathisen said that the outcome is the result of nearly a decade of continual improvement. The graduation rate increased by more than 10 percent in the last six years. Someone’s doing something right!

Dude, Where’s My Bus?

This February, Bend La-Pine Schools released an innovative, interactive tool called My Bus Stop—allowing students and parents access to real-time bus route information from a smartphone, computer or tablet.

“We are excited to offer this new GPS service to our bus-riding families,” said Kim Crabtree, Director of Transportation in a press release, “as Central Oregonians know, road conditions and heavy traffic can slow bus routes. With My Bus Stop, families will be able to stay up-to-date with bus arrival times both for morning pick-ups and afternoon drop-offs.”

Check out My Bus Stop as a web application or app.

The information is available to parents, guardians and students.

To log in, go to: bus.bend.k12.or.us. To install the app, download the Google Play Android version or the iTunes iPhone version. Make sure to select Bend-La Pine Schools as your district during app set up.

Teen Brain Power

Teenagers are often pegged as emotional, reckless and hormone-crazed— but that‘s only grazing the surface of what’s happening in the teenaged brain.

According to Time magazine, “advanced brain imaging has revealed that the teenage brain has lots of plasticity, which means it can change, adapt and respond to its environment,” a process known as myelination. Turns out, the skills you learn during your teenage years are not only easy, but they stick with you.

In Bend, there are many ways to engage teenagers.

Did you know that The Boys and Girls Club has a Teen Center that offers everything from money management classes, volunteering, life skills to a teen night on Friday nights? Transportation and food are provided. Check out bgcbend.org Bend Park and Recreation offers activities from karate, swim skills to radio camps. For a complete list of their offerings, pick up a copy of the spring or summer Playbook. bendparksandrec.org

New to Bend, Tula Movement Arts Center, which opened in June of 2017 in NorthWest Crossing, offers weekly classes and camps for teenagers that range from slack line and aerial yoga to open gyms. Check out the online schedule at tulamovementarts.com.

Bend has an amazing array of activities for teenagers, so why not break the mold and learn something new?

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 17

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Thank you for Voting Dr. Blair Stuble Best Children’s Orthodontist!

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541.848.6642

“To awaken a love for God,

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What She Really Wants for the Best Mother’s Day

M

TRENDING

Mom Hacks

By Annette Benedetti

other’s Day is right around the corner and families are about to scour the local shops for the prettiest potted plants, best chocolates and the sparkliest jewelry out there. But before you go adding to mom’s chores with more greenery to keep alive or ruining her diet with a sugary gift, consider giving her what she really wants: an easier job.

There are plenty of hacks that make momming easier. This Mother’s Day, consider giving mom a gift that will ease her everyday woes. Check out the hacks below and then make your purchase or help organize the home accordingly.

Keep the kids’ shoes in the car. Mom won’t have to ask 20 times for shoes to make it on to feet before heading out the door with this simple solution. The kids can pull them on during the ride to school and she gets to start her day off on the right foot.

Pajamas are just comfy day clothes, aren’t they? Bathe the kids before they hit the sack and then put them in a pair of sweats and a soft t-shirt. When they wake up the next day, simply feed them and have them brush their teeth and hair, then they are ready to jump in the car where their shoes await them.

Swiss Army Knives aren’t just for dads. Mom needs one for her purse because they offer quick solutions for an endless number of problems like pulling splinters from tiny fingers, breaking into the impenetrable packaging around new toys, and perhaps most importantly, busting into that bottle of wine at the end of the day.

That shoe organizer that was once filled with fancy heels and now hangs empty in the closet is perfect for organizing all of the kids’ craft supplies or those tiny

random toys you aren’t quite sure what to do with. Talk about a quick clean up!

All that jewelry you keep buying mom needs somewhere to go when she isn’t wearing it (which is most of the time). Grab some ice cube trays and organize.

Simple, effective and cheap.

Forget buying those spendy glasses from the Pottery Barn. Mom shouldn’t feel bad every time they slip from small hands and break (every day). Clean the jars the pasta sauce and jam come in and turn them into cups. Pros: cheap, hard to knock over and break, trendy and earth-friendly.

Ok, labeling clothing sounds like a preschool hack but if you have multiple children around the same age, or teenagers around mom’s age, chances are clothing wars have begun. Keep what belongs to whom straight by initialing the tags.

How many times has Mom lost hours of her day weaving through the aisles of the grocery store with unhappy children tugging at her clothes? Best mom hack? Instacart: a virtual grocery shopping and delivery website and app, gives her back those precious hours and her sanity. The free version offers access to products sold by Safeway, Albertsons, Costco, PetcoNow and Cash & Carry from the comfort of home. She just clicks on the items she wants and they are delivered right to the front door. If Mom is out on the town, she can order items for pickup, as well, and simply swoop by and grab them on the way home. Coupons on the site can be applied to a purchase with one quick click. Instacart does charge a delivery fee, but you can give Mom the gift of a membership so she can avoid this charge on orders over $35 and truly experience stress-free shopping.

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 19

EDUCATION Pilot Butte Middle School students take part in community service work—a large component of IB learning at the school.

Andria Lindsey, IB coordinator at Bend High, receives the prestigious Milken Award.

WHAT IS IB, ANYWAY? EXPLORING THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE PROGRAM FOR CENTRAL OREGON STUDENTS

BY NICOLE VULCAN

I

magine the scene: An auditorium of young teens and their parents or guardians, sitting down to listen to a program detailing how they can make their high school careers even more challenging.

Yes, this really happens.

As a parent, you’ve probably heard of Advanced Placement, often called AP, offering students a more rigorous high school curriculum. That program has been fairly widespread in U.S. schools since many parents were students themselves.

But “IB,” on the other hand, is less well-known and understood in U.S. schools. So what is IB anyway, and why did so many students come to a recent High School Info Night at Bend Senior High School to find out more?

The International Baccalaureate program is an internationally-recognized curriculum, currently used in around 5,000 schools in more than 150 countries around the world, according to the International

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Baccalaureate program website. IB coursework is available at Bend High and Pilot Butte Middle School in Bend, but internationally, it’s available for students age 3 to 19.

According to the program’s site, IB “aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.” The U.S Department of State describes IB as, “academically challenging curriculum emphasizing the philosophy of learning and the integration of disciplines.”

THE HIGH SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

At an IB high school, students can simply take an occasional IB course to challenge themselves in subjects ranging from Spanish to math to world religions—or they can pursue the IB Diploma Programme, a more comprehensive curriculum which

Students learn about evaporation and condensation in a science classroom at Pilot Butte Middle School.

can result in college credits and scholarships, and sometimes even “sophomore standing” upon entering college, according to the Bend High IB webpage.

At a recent Info Night at Bend High, one student described how she’ll use her upcoming IB diploma to attend university in the United Kingdom, where she’ll study to become a doctor and attend fewer years of school than she would for a similar degree in the U.S. That’s one big benefit: Opening up further educational opportunities elsewhere, with few hoops to jump through to have past schooling recognized in the chosen country.

Sierra Freihoefer is another senior at Bend High, set to study computer science at Oregon State University after graduation. She’s been taking IB courses since her sophomore year and is pursuing the full IB diploma.

“When I decided to do IB it wasn’t all about the (college) credit. I think it was mainly just about trying my hardest and learning about different ways of thinking and not just the U.S. perspective,” Freihoefer said.

“There’s so much involved in it, more than just learning, beyond just memorizing things. You’re actually learning things in the program beyond just surface level understanding—it’s like lifelong understanding.”

Andria Lindsey is the IB coordinator at Bend High, where the program has been available to students since 2010. At Bend High, students can choose from 23 IB courses. More than 450 students there are taking at least one IB class this school year, with 26 seniors and 36 juniors pursuing the full IB diploma, Lindsey said.

“I think one of the biggest strengths of the IB program is how it prepares students for college-level learning, and real-world responsibilities,” Lindsey relates. “We see that our students—whether they take one class or they do the full diploma—we see that they are stronger with manag-

ing their time and organizing all the activities that they have going on, and balancing them in their lives.”

Yes, the program is challenging, and not ideal for everyone, Lindsey admits, but that challenge can also be beneficial.

“We also see the transition for students from their senior year in high school to their freshman year in college be much more seamless than if they haven’t taken any of those college-level courses,” she says.

IB IN MIDDLE SCHOOL

Pilot Butte Middle School has been offering the IB Middle Years Programme for all students at the school since 2015—a designation that took the school three and a half years to achieve. It was the first Oregon middle school outside the Portland metro area to offer the program, according to the district.

The Middle Years Programme requires students to take a second language, arts classes and a design class that marries problem solving with technology. Students also have to take part in global community service projects, helping them develop a worldview that goes beyond their own backyards.

That global perspective is just one component of the program—but it’s a perspective that educators hope can translate into a lifelong love of learning and making connections, Bend High’s Lindsey says.

“We really ask students to connect all of their learning across all of their disciplines and apply it to their life outside of their classes, and so they’re just this continuous learner.”

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 21

N of the

Winners 2018

ew to town? New to parenting? In search of a date night, tutor or pediatrician?

We’ve got you covered. In fact, we’ve got the best of the best! With our Best of the Nest Ballot, local parents recently voted for their favorite businesses, from the most kid-friendly restaurant to the doc that makes the boo-boos better. We now proudly present you with the 2018 Best of the Nest Winners. Patronize them, congratulate them and best of all, enjoy them!

Interviews by Howard Leff Photos by Natalie Stephenson

BEST HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS Best Pediatrician Dr. Megan Karnop (COPA) Dr. Jeff Meyrowitz (COPA)

Best Children’s Dentist Dr. Steve Christensen (Deschutes Pediatric Dentistry) Dr. Elise Burrus (Pediatric Dental Associates)

Best Children’s Orthodontist Dr. Blair Struble (Struble Orthodontics) Dr. David Sullivan (Sullivan Orthodontics)

Best Children’s Optometrist Dr. Gabby Marshall (Elemental Eyecare) Dr. Kirsten Scott (Integrated Eyecare)

Best OB/Midwife Dr. John Murphy (Central Oregon OB/GYN)

Boys & Girls Club Kids Inc.

Best Tutor / Learning Specialist Sylvan Learning Center Heather Ashley, M.ED

Best Music Instruction Cascade School of Music Music Flow

Best Day Camps for Little Kids Bend Park & Recreation District Camp Fire Central Oregon

Best Day Camps for Older Kids High Desert Museum Camp

Dr. Mary Ann Ahmed (East Cascade Women’s Group)

Camp Fire Central Oregon

BEST OF EDUCATION

BEST OF RECREATION

Best Day Care

Best Place for a Playdate (indoor)

The Cottage Day Care Inspire Early Learning Centers

Best Preschool The Cottage Day Care Inspire Early Learning Centers

Best Charter/Magnet Elementary/ Private School Highland Magnet at Kenwood School REALMS Middle School 22

Best After-School Program

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Bouncing off the Wall Mountain Air Trampoline Park

Best Place for a Playdate (outdoor) Columbia Park The Pavilion

Best Gymnastics Center Central Oregon Gymnastics Academy OOA Gymnastics

BEST OF DINING Best Martial Arts School High Desert Martial Arts Clark’s University of Martial Arts

Best Swim Instructor Liza Petzke, (The Athletic Club of Bend) Mary McCool

Best Kids Yoga Namaspa Athletic Club of Bend

Best Dance Studio V!be Dance Center

Best Kids Menu Jackson’s Corner Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews

Best Family Restaurant Jackon’s Corner Tumalo Feed Company

Best Kid Friendly Brewery Crux Fermentation Project Deschutes Brewery

Best Place for a Sweet Treat Goody’s

The School of Dance with Miss Marcelle

Cuppa Yo Frozen Yogurt

Best Skate Park

Townshend’s Bend Teahouse

(The Athletic Club of Bend)

Ponderosa Skate Park Redmond Skate Park

Best Place for a Child’s Birthday Party Mountain Air Trampoline Park Bouncing off the Wall

Best Teen Hang Out The Old Mill District Townshend’s Bend Teahouse

Best Teen Date Regal Cinemas

Best Parents Night Out Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails Ariana Restaurant

Best of Shops & Services Best Children’s Clothing Store (New) Hopscotch Kids

Best Family Festival

Baby Phases

Oregon WinterFest

Best Children’s Consignment Store

Bend Summer Festival

Stone Soup

Best Place for Kid-Friendly Camping

The Stylish Stork

Elk Lake Resort

Best Toy Store

Hoodoo’s Crescent Lake Resort

Leapin’ Lizards Toy Company

Best Place for a Family Swim

Hopscotch Kids

Athletic Club of Bend

Best Place for a Child’s Haircut

Juniper Swim and Fitness Center

Sprouts Kids Salon

Best Family Night Out

Sports Clips Haircuts

Sun Mountain Fun Center

Best Photographer for Children and Families

McMenamin’s Old St. Francis Movie Theater

Best Place to Feel Like a Kid Again (for adults) Mt. Bachelor Vector Volcano Classic Arcade

Jewel Images Natalie Stephenson Photography

Best Nonprofit Serving Children KIDS Center Boys & Girls Club BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 23 See Featu red W i n n e r s >

Best Kids Menu & Best Family Restaurant

of the

Winners

1.

2018

Jackson’s Corner Aaron Christenson, Manager/Owner

How did Jackson’s Corner get so good at keeping kids happy? Trial by fire. We have kids ourselves and know the struggles that can come with attempting to go out with them. If you take care of the kids first, parents can relax. Happy kids, happy parents. We try to offer as much as possible for kids to do while at the restaurant. We change up the coloring sheets to keep it fresh. In the warmer months we have some space outside to play and there’s the latest addition of the Etch-A-Sketches, which have been, I think, more of a hit with the grown-ups.

2.

What’s the secret to making healthy food that kids actually like to eat? Making it fun! I think seeing the food through kids’ eyes is important. With different flavors, shapes, colors and ways of eating, kids can be nourished and stay engaged. Our Kids Menu offers up the basics like the pb & j or grilled cheese, but it also offers variety for the more adventurous palate, with dishes like the 4 oz. locally raised, grass-fed steak and seasonal vegetables.

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3.

What are some of your favorite items on the Kids Menu? Long live “Cheesy Sticks!” Really though, the “Arrows Plate” is up there. It’s simple and nourishing—featuring roasted turkey breast, cheese and seasonally changing fruits and veggies. My eight-year-old loves salads, so it’s fun to be able to have a seasonally changing salad on the Kids Menu. You can’t beat the “Eggs and Baky” for breakfast, which features an organic egg, local potatoes, bacon, seasonal fruit and our house-made toast—all the essentials for fueling your kid up for a day full of adventure in Bend.

4.

Describe the perfect grilled cheese sandwich.

A perfect grilled cheese has to have a super crispy exterior, brushed with garlic oil. Lots of melty cheese in the center. Thick cut, handmade bread is a must!

Jackson’s Corner-Westside 845 NW Delaware Ave., Bend 541-647-2198 Mon.-Thurs., 7am-9pm, Fri., 7am-10pm Sat.-Sun., 7am-9pm Jackson’s Corner-Eastside 1500 NE Cushing Dr., Bend 541-382-1751 Mon.-Thurs., 7am-9pm, Fri., 7am-10pm Sat.-Sun., 7am-9pm jacksonscornerbend.com

Best Day Camp for Older Kids

of the

Winners

1.

2018

High Desert Museum Carolyn Nesbitt, Curator of Education

How did you come up with the idea of a day camp for kids? We wanted to offer local families, especially our members, a way to engage with the Museum in more meaningful ways. Camp themes connect to the Museum’s mission and exhibitions, giving kids the opportunity to delve deeper than they could by visiting an exhibit or attending a workshop. Spending a week on a theme gives our instructors the opportunity to build upon each day’s experiences.

2.

What sort of activities take place? With themes that range from local geology to the “science of yuck,” the activities in each camp are diverse! This is great for kids who enjoy attending several camps at the Museum throughout the summer. This summer, the oldest age group can enroll in themes that range from exploring careers working with animals to how to survive in the High Desert.

3.

What do you hope kids take away from this experience? For some campers, it’s about taking a deep dive into a topic that they really enjoy, Photos on this page courtesy of High Desert Musum

while for others, it’s about having a memorable experience with friends. Whatever their motivation, we hope kids leave with a better understanding of the unique place in which we live and a closer connection to its history, culture, wildlife and people. We want them to leave feeling curious to continue to explore and, of course, with memories of having had a great time with new friends.

4.

Describe a typical day at camp. While each day is unique, they include Museum exploration, animal interaction and outside play. Many Museum exhibits and summer programs link directly to camp themes, so exploring permanent and temporary exhibits—in addition to special wildlife programs such as Desert Dwellers and Raptors of the Desert Sky—are great additions to classroom activities.

High Desert Museum Day Camps 59800 US-97, Bend 541-382-4754 highdesertmuseum.org June-August

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 25

now open

Now Accepting Patients

A progressive, new approach to pediatric healthcare Concierge pediatrics offers 24/7 direct access to your pediatrician, same-day, extended appointments, house calls, personalized care and more.

Be a part of the Bend Kids family.

541.213.5045 / www.bendkidspediatrics.com

Looking for an alternative?

Dr. Cooper is a licensed primary care provider accepting new patients into her family practice. Come experience an individualized approach to healthcare.

SPECIALIZING IN INTEGRATIVE PRIMARY CARE

NOW ACCEPTING NEW FAMILIES

Dr. Jocelyn Cooper Center for Integrative Medicine 541-323-3358 464 NE Norton Ave, Bend In-network provider with all major insurance carriers

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Best Children’s Optometrist

of the

Dr. Gabby Marshall

Winners 2018

Elemental Eyecare

1.

Why did you decide to specialize in treating children? I realized that although I completely and thoroughly love everything about being an optometrist, the best part was helping kids. Not everyone likes to have kids in their office all day long, but since I enjoy it, I decided to make a special place for kids in Bend. The decision also allowed me to focus on my ongoing education in developmental vision and be the best I can be in the area.

2.

What are some of the challenges involved in working with young patients? Modifying tests to make sure they are appropriate and engaging for different ages. We try very hard to provide a low stress and caring environment for both children and their parents. The bouncy balls and monkeys help a lot.

3.

What should parents watch out for when it comes to their children’s vision? The biggest reason to have an eye exam is to make sure your child is

performing to their potential. Even if a child has no symptoms, they can still have a serious vision or eye health problem. That is exactly why we recommend annual wellness eye exams for children. You can’t see what they see.

4.

Do you really do eye exams for babies? How do they respond? Yes, we really do. We recommend the first wellness eye exam between six and nine months of age. This is perfect timing to make sure baby’s eyes are developing appropriately and we can check for any “red flags” that may impact proper visual development and eye health. It is an easy exam for the baby, and don’t worry, they don’t remember the “drops.”

Elemental Eyecare 2736 NW Crossing Drive, Suite 120, Bend 541-323-3937 elementaleyecare.com Mon., Wed., Thurs., 9am-6pm BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 27

WHO HAS THE POWER TO STOP HOUSING DISCRIMINATION?

YOU!

It’s against the law for landlords to deny your application, give you the run around, charge you more rent, or steer you away from a rental complex or neighborhood because of your race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or familial status. If you suspect housing discrimination, file a complaint with HUD or your local fair housing center.

To file a complaint, go to hud.gov/fairhousing or call 1-800-669-9777

FAIR HOUSING IS YOUR RIGHT. USE IT. A public service message from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in partnership with the National Fair Housing Alliance. The federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status or disability. For more information, visit www.hud.gov/fairhousing.

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Best Place For a Child’s Haircut

Sprouts Kids Salon

of the

Winners

Shawnde Russell, Owner

1.

Obvious first question: How do you keep kids relaxed and happy while cutting their hair? We now have multiple televisions for kids to view Netflix or a DVD of their choice. We also have lollipops—which are a huge hit. Plus, we have plenty of toys for kids to play with before, during or after their haircut— and we have a cool car for them to sit in—if they are the right size, of course!

2.

What are the most requested styles these days? We are seeing a lot of what is sometimes referred to as the Gentlemen’s Cut: super short on the sides and back and longer on top. For girls, we do a lot of A-Lines.

3.

Are there any special skills involved in cutting kids’ hair? I always say if you can cut kids’ hair you can do anything! Some people think it takes less skill to cut kids’ hair because they are small, but it’s actually way harder! Kids can be very wiggly! It also takes A LOT of patience to do this job.

2018

4.

What happens during the special “Birthday Party Girl” cut? For a birthday party we have some fun dress-up clothes! We also do a fun hairstyle, paint nails, have a dance party and provide goodie bags and a photo.

5.

Anything else you would like Bend parents to know? We recently partnered with the Lice Clinics of America to provide a more efficient and effective way to get rid of head lice.

We are very excited to have this new technology that is 99.2% effective and non-toxic.

Sprouts Kids Salon 1444 NW College Way, Suite 6, Bend 541-382-0055 sproutskidssalon.mysalononline.com Tues.-Fri., 10am-6pm Sat., 9am-5pm BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 29

Central Oregon

SUNDAYS Show proof of residency in Deschutes, Jefferson or Crook County

$9

Sunday Admission Through May 24

Make a Splash!

For more information: www.SunriverSHARC.com

Spring has Sprung at Stone Soup of the

An unrivaled soccer experience for the players of Central Oregon 2018 Summer Camp 1: July 16 - 19. Big Sky Park Field 4 2018 Summer Camp 2: July 23 - 26. Big Sky Park. Field 4 A fun and interactive curriculum brought to you by Bend FC Timbers Coaching Directors, staff and players (current and former) ensures each camper receives a multitude of touches on the ball in a fun environment. Each session of this four day camp will have a soccer theme where players will focus on dribbling, shooting, receiving and small-sided games.

Register at: www.bendfctimbers.com

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Kids’ clothing up to size 14 We pay cash or store credit for your gently used kids items

Visit our website for details

www.stonesoupkids.com 541.323.7117 1740 NW Pence Lane #4

(off Newport Avenue and College Way)

stonesoupkids@gmail.com

Best Dance Studio

of the

Winners

1.

2018

Vibe Dance Center Sarah Hall, Owner/Director

How do kids benefit from dance? Dance is a great way for kids to progress in motor skill development, engage multiple senses and gain an understanding of a classroom/studio community environment.

As dancers grow in age, dance can become an amazing opportunity to learn the value in creativity, self-expression, confidence, body awareness, problem solving, risk taking, commitment and most of all, memories and friendships that last a lifetime.

2.

What sort of dance do you teach? The Vibe teaches a wide variety of dance including ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, lyrical, contemporary, acrodance and breakin’.

We begin classes for dancers starting as young as three and progress all the way to adult. With both recreational and competitive dance programs available, dancers are able to choose their level of involvement and progression here at The Vibe.

3.

Can you describe your special “Boy’s Program?”

We have quite a few male dancers and instructors at The Vibe—which has given us the opportunity to have a couple of “Boys Only” classes. This allows for boys to come

in and try different dance classes in an environment in which they may feel more comfortable. However, boys are welcome and do participate in all our classes!

4.

What are birthday parties like at The Vibe? We have a few different options for birthday parties including set themes, or you can design a custom birthday party! Parties usually begin with arrival time, then approximately 45 minutes of dance instruction, games or free dance. After that there is time for the usual party activities such as cake and presents—and then departure time. Our staff loves hosting birthday parties, which are available Saturdays and Sundays at 1pm or 5pm.

V!be Dance Center 740 NE 3rd Street, Suite 1, Bend 541-318-8338 danceatthevibe.com Mon., Tues., Thurs., 3pm-9pm Wed., 2pm-9pm Fri., 3pm-6pm BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 31

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Mindful Mama Nine self-care tools for new moms By Jill Dyer

B

eing a mother of four with a school-age brood myself, I love being with new moms. Conversations about the myriad struggles mixed with newborn baby snuggles offer a magical blend of a familiar life stage to me.

Recently, the sun came out and a new-mom friend and I decided to put her littles in the stroller and go for a walk. Inevitably, we began discussing anxiety. I don’t think I’ve met a mother who isn’t racked with the fear that her newborn might stop breathing during the night or starve from an insufficient milk supply. New moms deal with body changes, breasts the size of melons, jeans that still don’t fit and to top it off, anxiety.

Although anxiety usually lasts somewhere around six weeks until the new routine becomes normal, hormones regulate and the body recovers, sometimes anxiety grows like a pervasive bacteria.

My friend was showing signs of new-mom anxiety that troubled me, not because I think she is ill, though anxiety disorders are prevalent. I was troubled because the self-care required to mitigate her new-mom anxiety seemed nearly impossible for her.

During this initial stage, most moms are exhausted. The tasks of caring for a baby, a home, possibly other children and maintaining a relationship with a significant other, not to mention maintaining an outside profession, is monumental. To ask a new mom to care for herself often seems like just one more duty.

People look at me sideways when I say I am still recovering from my 14 years of being a stay-athome mom.

I’m not kidding.

When I was in the new-mom stage, I did not know how to care for myself. I am just now recogniz-

ing what true self-care means.

What are self-care practices a new mom with limited time and finances can implement?

Self-care is defined as activity designed to purposefully care for one’s mental, emotional and physical health. Self-care is not one more task to add to the list. Though choosing self-care takes volition, the outcome is a refueled self, providing a new capacity to love those who are important.

Here are nine practical selfcare tools for new moms: Exercise This was my sole selfcare for years. Choosing each day to exercise will increase serotonin levels and physical energy. Also, some exercise, such as yoga, will counter act the body’s response to anxiety.

Acupressure mat For a

mere $20, you can lay on small spiked plastic disks that stimulate your body’s acupressure points, helping it to release natural endorphins. I won’t lie, the first few times it feels like lying on tacks. Persevere to slowly build up to 10 minutes for a natural, gratifying calm.

Weighted blanket Often

used for ADHD and anxiety disorders, it provides the body with a sense of being held that can soothe YOU, as you spend so much time soothing your infant. Consider napping with one or using it while you read or watch T.V.

Meditation We often assume meditation takes at least an hour,

requires a “zen-like” atmosphere, and is only for Buddhist monks. In truth, even 10 minutes of chosen stillness can enhance feelings of well-being, minimize anxiety, insomnia and depression.

Permission to say “no”

When a mother is born, so is a list of new requirements. You will be writing permission slips for your child over the next decade. To balance new demands, write yourself one by saying “no” to even one task that is normally required of you.

Support groups Join a

community group, library group or play group. Put yourself in a place where you can be around women for camaraderie, support and fresh ideas.

Laughter I will never forget

reading Vicki Iovine’s “Girlfriend’s Guide to the First Year.” Her wit and unapologetic truth-telling helped me feel normal. A contemporary read is “Confessions of a Domestic Failure,” by Bunmi Latidan. This literary delight had me shaking and snorting in my efforts to laugh stealthily on an airplane.

Eat clean This is not about your muffin-top. Our bodies are designed to run on whole foods. Feeding ourselves well allows our bodies to function optimally.

Choose one pleasurable thing each day: Take five

minutes to sip a warm drink. Take a 10-minute walk. Color or draw.

Think about what you love to do, and relish in one activity a day, however small.

We spend each day loving our children. Can we also love ourselves by choosing self-care? Wonder Woman needs her weapons-let self-care be one of yours.

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 33

THANK YOU

of the

FOR VOTING US

BEST DAY CAMPS SUMMER REGISTRATION IS OPEN! SUMMERKIDS PROGRAM (K-6) from $175 Week-long camps June 18th- Aug 17th Location: Ponderosa Elementary TUMALO DAY CAMP (PRE-K-12) from $225 June 25-29th / Aug 20-24th Location: Tumalo State Park

NEW! TEEN OVERNIGHT RETREATS, WEEKEND AND SUMMER PROGRAMS NO SCHOOL DAY CAMPS ALL YEAR LONG EXTENDED CARE OPTIONS & FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE!

NURTURING A GROWTH MINDSET Research shows that young people who participate in Camp Fire programs are more likely to stay in school, lead a healthy lifestyle, have a sense of purpose, and achieve their full potential.

of the

Winner

INCLUSIVE AND EMPOWERING Boys and Girls Leadership & Teamwork Outdoor Education Goal Setting Problem Solving Communication Skills Peer Relationships Adult Mentors

lder K O r o f p m a C B e st

ids !

Smithsonian Affiliate

www.campfireco.org | 541.382.4682 | info@campfireco.org

Central Oregon OB/GYN Specializing in Women's Health

Offering premium prenatal care for every step of your journey from the time you conceive until delivery.

Thank you for voting Dr. Murphy Best OB/GYN in 2017 and 2018!

John Murphy, MD, FACOG OBGYN Erin LeGrand, DO, FACOOG 541.323.6198 2450 NE Mary Rose Place Ste 220 CentralOregonOb.com 34

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59800 south highway 97 | bend, oregon 541-382-4754 | highdesertmuseum.org

of the

CALENDAR Mondays

Kids ROCK(!) Choir

— Sing Bend introduces Kids ROCK(!) Choir to Central Oregon. Kids 12 and under are welcome to come sing with only one goal: to have a great time! No training, experience, or long-term commitment required to join.

Just a good attitude!

SINGING

Broken Top Bottle Shop | $10 singbend.com

Mondays, April 30- May 21

Mommy/Daddy & Me PLAY —

This class incorporates art, storytelling, animal demonstrations, games, movement, music and literature for both children and adults. At Juniper Jungle Learning Farm there are chickens, a pond, a tipi, greenhouses, compost piles, a stream and many other exciting places to visit. For children accompanied by an adult, ages 24 months to 4 years old. Themes vary each class. 10:30am-12:00pm.

Juniper Jungle Learning Farm | $37/4-week class wildheartnatureschool.com

First Friday of Every Month

First Friday Art Walk

— A fun, year-round event, First Friday Art Walks are family friendly and include art, music and drinks at various downtown businesses. This event serves as a celebration of downtown Bend and is a unique part of the Bend community. Most downtown shops extend their hours, creating a lively experience for family and friends.

ART

Downtown Bend | Free downtownbend.org

Saturdays, April 7-May 12

Into the Wild: A Family Adventure Workshop

— Adults with children ages 8-10 will learn together in hands-on workshops. Uncover the mysteries of the intriguing carnivores hidden in our local forests and work with wildlife biologists in the field. Learn how to identify animals in the wild, how to track their movements and explore how they survive.

FAMILY FUN

High Desert Museum | Free highdesertmuseum.org

First & Third Saturdays

Kids’ Night Out

— Kids ages 3-11 get JSFC to themselves as they play in the pool, participate in crafts and games, and watch a movie under the supervision of our trained and caring staff. Snacks provided. Note: Ages 3 – 5 must be potty-trained & swimming is not included for this group. 6:30 – 9:30 pm

SWIM

Juniper Swim & Fitness | $11 (pre-register)

and architects are taking a page out of nature’s book and create some designs of your own in this family-friendly exhibition!

ronmental Center. Choose your distance (5K, 10K or Half Marathon) honoring the annual migration of the salmon along Central Oregon waterways.

High Desert Museum | Free with museum admission

Athletic Club of Bend | Prices vary

highdesertmuseum.org

runsalmonrun.com

April 5

Spring Repair Café

April 8

FIX IT — Volunteers will be on hand to attempt to repair your broken items, for free!

Items to bring include clothes, outdoor gear, electronics and small appliances, jewelry, small furniture and household goods. You may bring multiple items, but only one item will be repaired at a time.

5:30 – 7:30pm

Ensworth Elementary | Free Rethinkwasteproject.org

April 8

Salmon Run

— Get the whole family moving with this Bend tradition benefitting the Envi-

FUN RUN

bendparksandrec.org

Little Fry Run

— Help your Little Fry hatch into a runner—enter them into this fun kids run, as part of the Pacific Source Kids Rock the Races series! This is a non-competitive, healthy event for kids 3-10. Everyone receives a finisher’s ribbon for participating.

FUN RUN

Athletic Club of Bend | $5 per child runsalmonrun.com

April 11

Backpack Explorers: Microscope Explorers

— See nature in a whole new way! Bring your curiosity and find out how

EXPLORE

Second Saturdays

FREE Family Night

— All ages. Elevate your family get-together to a whole new level of fun!

Join in to combine fitness and fun as a family. 6:30 – 8:30 pm

SWIM

Juniper Swim & Fitness | Free bendparksandrec.org

April through July 15

Innovation Lab: Design Inspired by Nature

SCIENCE — Learn how designers, engineers

Photo Courtesy of Children’s Forest of Central Oregon

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 35

CALENDAR different natural objects look at a microscopic level. Collect specimens and examine different textures, patterns and colors using a handheld digital microscope. Parents and children ages 3-5 investigate science, art, music, stories and culture in a fun, hands-on manner. Pre-registration and payment is required.

High Desert Museum | $10-$30 highdesertmuseum.org

April 11

Teaching Kids to Stand Up Against Hate

DISCUSSION – With experts from COCC, join this interactive talk on biases in our society and how to support our children’s efforts to stand up against hate.

Cascades Academy | Free cascadesacademy.org

April 12

Hopservatory Night Sky Viewing

SCIENCE — The Worthy Garden Club offers weekly open viewing that includes seasonally appropriate educational programs and a peek through the Worthy telescope. The goal is to raise scientific literacy and educate visitors about big and unwieldy concepts like scale, size, time, distance, and speed in our solar system and beyond. 8:00pm.

Worthy Brewing | $5

worthybrewing.com/hopservatory

April 13

Kids Night Out: Fruit Cobbler

— Do you have a little chef that loves to cook? Kids ages 7-17 are invited to get creative in the kitchen in this

BAKE

handson class. They’ll learn to make beautiful fruit cobbler from scratch in this three-hour workshop.

Kindred Creative Kitchen | $30

kindredcreativekitchen.com

April 13

Kidz Night Out

— Kids ages 7 and up get a chance to play and celebrate with their peers for three hours of healthy, fun time—without parents! They’ll get dinner, do activities like game night, DIY projects and play.

KIDS NIGHT

DIYcave | $10

diycave.com

April 14

Kids Yoga Party

— This class is just for the young yogis - no parents allowed! Every second Saturday of the month, drop off the children for a night of yoga, dance, mindfulness and play designed to cultivate presence of mind, heart and body. Children will develop body awareness and self-esteem with a 30-minute yoga practice along with dance and play. Ages 4-10. Class size is limited, please pre-register.

YOGA

Wild Thing Yoga | $20

wildthingbend.com

April 13-15

Big Wave Challenge

— This snowboard-only event, inspired by legendary surfer and Mt. Bachelor Ambassador, Gerry Lopez, features a series of huge sweeping banked corners, quarter pipes and spines, incorporating the natural terrain to create wave-like features into a flowing course - this year located off Midway. Sign up for men’s, women’s and kid’s divisions or simply take in the action!

SNOWBOARDING

Mt. Bachelor | Entry varies

mtbachelor.com/event/bigwave-challenge/

April 19

Craft Kitchen Craft Night Fundraiser

CRAFTS — Join Family Resource Center for an hour as they guide parents and their

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Wildheart Nature School Photo by Brenden Butler

Photo Courtesy of Athletic Club of Bend

kiddos through a craft activity that can be taken home at the end of the night. Kids and adults will have a great time snacking on food while letting their creativity flow. All proceeds from ticket sales go to the Family Resource Center.

Craft Kitchen and Brewery | $25/adults, kids are free

craftkitchenandbrewery.com

April 21

Earth Day Fair and Parade

PARADE — Bring the kids for a colorful, creative parade filled with children and adults costumed as their favorite plant or animal. Meet three Earth Guardian puppets, each of which celebrates nature in its own beautiful way. Following the parade, enjoy live music from Broken Down Guitars and a street fair featuring local businesses, nonprofits and food carts. Head over to Troy Field for the Kid’s Zone, with interactive activities and games for all ages.

The Environmental Center | Free envirocenter.org

April 21 & April 22

BANFF Film Festival

— Ignite your passion for adventure! This film festival will exhilarate you with amazing big-screen stories.

Journey to exotic locations, paddle the wildest waters and climb the highest peaks.

Fundraiser for Realms Middle School.

OUTDOORS

Tower Theatre | $22 towertheatre.org

April 21

Cascade Women’s Expo

— It’s time to rejuvenate your body and mind!

Enjoy a day of fashion shows, shopping, free samples, spa treatments, demonstrations, MOM BREAK

Strollin’ at the Salmon Run Photo by Brian Becker

raffles and don’t forget to complete a project in the DIY Corner. Grab a friend for a fun day out!

The Riverhouse Convention Center | $5

cascadewomensexpo.com

April 23 & May 19

Art Project: Pillow Vases

— Try your hand at creating a sweet & petite vase designed to hold single stem flowers - perfect for those early blooms of spring! This project is a great way to try out ceramics and end up with a functional piece. Ages 14 and up.

ART

Art Station | $29 - $35

Bendparksandrec.org

April 27 - 28

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

PLAY — Trinity Lutheran High School Performing Arts Department presents “Beauty and the Beast,” following Belle on her journey through an enchanted storybook world and the Beast’s castle, where only true love can save everyone from their fate!

Trinity Lutheran Church & School | $5-$25 trinitybend.ticketleap.com/ beauty-and-the-beast/

April 28

Dutch Dining: Breakfast

— Camping season is right around the corner! Enhance your camp kitchen skills with this Dutch oven cooking class. Breakfast is served after you learn how to select, prepare and fire up your oven and coals. Registration required.

CAMP COOKING

High Desert Museum | $10-$15 highdesertmuseum.org

April 28

Sisters Better Half Marathon

MARATHON — What’s better than going on a run with your hubby? Choose to run/walk a 1/4 Marathon or a Half Marathon on your own or do the Half Marathon with a partner (each person completes 6.55 miles). Highlighting many of the great businesses and services that Sisters has to offer, proceeds from this event will benefit the Sisters High School Swim Team.

Downtown Sisters | Registration varies

sistershalfmarathon.com

April 28

Discover Nature Day: Special Ops Survivors

— Learn to navigate the world of unpredictability while playing team games and practicing survival skills in nature. Recommended for ages 6-12 with family. Advance registration is required.

OUTSIDE

Skyliners Lodge | Free

childrensforestco.org

April 28

Pure Light Chiropractic Springtime Celebration

Grand Opening — Located in Pure Light’s new office parking lot, to celebrate their grand opening, they will offer a fun family springtime celebration with a bouncy house, face painting, fire truck tours, VW Photo Bus, live music and much more! 12pm-4pm.

Pure Light, Century Drive | Free

purelightfamilychiropractic. com

May 5

Cinco de Mayo Celebration Benefiting Three Rivers School

— Celebrate the Central Oregon community with a delicious Cinco de Mayo inspired dinner, live music from local favorites Dave & Melody Hill, festive drinks, games and an auction! Ages 21+ (alcoholic beverages will be served).

PARENTS NIGHT OUT

Sunriver SHARC | $12 advance, $20 at the door

threeriversparentsclub.wordpress.com

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 37

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CALENDAR TULA MOVEMENT ARTS SUMMER CAMPS!

May 11

Kids Night Out: Custards COOK — From

pastry cream to Bavarian cream there is so much that you can do with custards! Children ages 7-17 will enjoy this hands-on, threehour class learning to make a variety of custards.

Kindred Creative Kitchen | $30

Kindredcreativekitchen.com

zation that’s mission is to be the Northwest’s leading youth sports training organization, promoting the positive values of competitive sports including alpine and nordic skiing, snowboarding and cycling.

— Give mom a special gift this Mother’s Day—bring her to the A6 Print Studio at Bend Art Center for some creative play and family bonding. Learn a fun, experimental form of printmaking and pull prints with the studio’s hand-crank etching presses.

For adults and kids, ages 8+.

RUN –

Moms, grab your girlfriends for some bonding time in this all women’s race in Riverbend Park. Choose your distance (5K, 10K, or half marathon) and be inspired!

Race entry includes a pre-race expo and party.

bendartcenter.org

May 26

Bend Art Center | $15 per person

Riverbend Park | $5

May 20

SELCO Kid’s Mini Pole Pedal Paddle

RACE — Teams of six kids will compete in two team challenges and an obstacle course. A fundraiser for the Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation.

MBSEF is a nonprofit organi

Circus Ninja Camp (Ages 9+), July 16-20, July 30-August 3, August 13-17, 1-4PM All camps are $140 for a full week or $40 for a drop-in.

TULAMOVEMENTARTS.COM

happygirlsrun.com

PLAY — Spark a sense of wonder for nature through imaginative play, exploration, songs and stories. This week’s program is Fantastic Flowers with Discover Your Forest.

Ages 3-5 with family.

childrensforestco.org

(Ages 5 - 8), July 9-13, July 23-27, & August 6-10, 1-4PM

Riverbend Park | Entry varies

Happy Little Kid Run

Ponderosa Park | Free

Circus Ninja Camp

Happy Girls Run

May 12

Puddlestompers: Fantastic Flowers

(Ages 3-6), June 25-30, August 20-24, 9AM-12PM

mbsef.org

May 26

MOTHER’S DAY

Moving Joyfully Camp

Les Schwab Amphitheater | $150 per team of 6

May 12

Print with Mom

Explore the world of acro yoga, slacklining, hooping and more!

— Children ages 3-10 years old are invited to join in on the Happy Little Kids Race, a part of the Pacific Source Kids Rock the Races.

Each child will receive a participation ribbon and a stamp on their Kids Rock the Races card.

FUN RUN

happygirlsrun.com

Doctors Brandi Kuhn and Alyssa Salava Providing chiropractic care and cranial sacral therapy for the whole family. Specializing in pregnancy and pediatric care for newborns, infants and children of all ages.

Now offering Saturday appointments!

TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU:

Bend 1551 NE 4th St. 541.389.9373

La Pine 51538 Hwy 97 541.640.2155 highdesertchiro.com

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 39

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Summer Camps Photo courtesy of Athletic Club of Bend

Athletic Club of Bend offers a wide variety of summer day

camps with activities for kids ages 3-12. Themes include junior tennis clinics, great outdoors, multi-sport, wet and wild, mountain bike camp and more! Sign up for weekly sessions running June 18 – August 31. athleticclubofbend.com

Base Camp Studio offers week-long art camps for kids ages 4-12 years throughout the summer months starting June 18.

Themes include 3D Art, Painting, Our Favorite Books, Get Outside, Wearable Art and more! Visit iartbend.com to register! basecampstudio.org BEAT Children’s Theater

Come spend part of your summer exploring the world of theatre! Camps include several different sessions and themes, including Dr. Seuss, Heroes & Heroines, Sing Out! and Detective Training. Camps are geared toward kids ages 7-12. Dates are July 9 -13, July 16-20, and July 23-27, 9am-2pm. beatchildrenstheatre.org

Bend Endurance Academy

Bend Endurance Academy offers mountain biking and rock climbing Photo courtesy of BEAT camps for youth. Rock Climbing These camps are designed for the youth climber that has a little bit of previous climbing experience and is looking to take their skills to the outdoors. Instruction will cover knots, belaying, and climbing movement. 8:30am-3:30pm. Ages

10-13. June 19-21, July 17-19, August 14-16. Equipment and transportation provided. $350/session.

Mountain Biking Mini Bikers (ages 6 & 7) must be prepared for a 3.5-hour session with their peers and capable to get going on their own, pedal on off-road surfaces, and stop safely. Mondays & Thursdays. Mighty bikers (ages 8-11) will ride in the group and must be able to complete a 3–6-mile ride within 90 minutes.

Choose 1, 2, or 3 days per week.

8:45am-12:15pm June 25-July 28 & July 30-August 24. bendenduranceacademy.org

Bend FC Timbers Soccer Camp offers two sessions for boys and girls ages 5-12. Camp takes place at Big Sky Park in Bend and includes a camp T-shirt. July 16-19 and 23-26. bendfctimbers.com

Bend Hoops offers three different

sessions of summer camps for boys and girls. Each session is for kids entering 1st-8th grades. All campers will go at the same time from 1pm-4pm, regardless of age. The cost for all three days of camp is $180. Sessions are: July 9-11, August 1-3, & August 27-29. bendhoops.com

Bend Park and Rec is the leading provider of summer camps for all ages in the community. Check out their PlayBook or visit them online for a full listing.

WWWbendparksandrec.org

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 41

Cascade School of Music offers several different types of classes, including Discover Music Camp, Meet the Instruments, Rock Camp and more! Classes are for kids ages 6-17. Register online at ccschoolofmusic.org Cascades Academy offers some fantastic camps on their 21-acre campus all taught by their teachers. Themes include Arctic Animators, Arcade Entrepreneurs, World’s Fair, Spelunk and Splash, Outdoor Leaders, and Robotics. Scholarships are available. June 25 – August 17. cascadesacademy.org

Photo courtesy of Bend Endurance Academy

Bend Science Station will be offering their amazing

themed camps for various age groups, including jedis & wizards, invertebrates & ice cream, myth busting & explosions. Have fun while learning science! Check their website for exact dates and times: bendsciencestation.org

Big Lake Youth Camp offers a wide variety of exciting

camps for different ages (7-17) and interests. Best to check their website for a full listing! biglake.org/summer-schedule

Camp Courage is an art day camp for children experiencing

loss and grief. Campers engage in activities to express their feelings in a fun, safe and supportive environment. July 24-27.

Registration required – contact Eileen Grover: 541-382-5882.

PartnersBend.org

Camp Tamarack Experience a traditional overnight camp

here in Central Oregon. With a 1 to 4 staff to camper ratio, they offer campers ages 8-13 a wide variety of weekly classes to participate in, from photography to ceramics, paddle boarding to snorkeling, and team sports to wood working! The days are full and the days are fun! camptamarack.com/summer-camp

Camp Fire offers two popular summer camp options: SummerKids (8 weeks) Art, wacky science experiments, outdoor exploring, sports, games, skits, songs and more! This camp, located at Bear Creek Elementary, is for ages K-6th grade and runs a full week, every week in the summer between June 18 – August 17. Financial assistance is available.

Tumalo Day Camp is a rich group outdoor learning and growing experience that lets kids from Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade share joy and responsibility while making new, lasting friendships. Here, campers discover, explore and build individual skills as they try new things. Location is Tumalo State Park and two sessions are available: June 25 – 29 & August 20 – 24. campfireco.org

Central Oregon Gymnastics Academy (COGA) offers camps that give athletes a chance to advance levels or become more proficient at their current level. Camps run Tuesday-Thursday from 9am-1pm and include 2 ½ hours of gymnastics instruction a day and fun games for the remainder of the time. Camps are by level and occur every week from July 10 – August 16. cogymnastics.com/summer2018 Chockstone Climbing offers two sessions of their multiday climbing intensive that is designed for the experienced youth climber that wants to turn it up a notch and climb stronger, smarter, and above all, safely. Choose between June 20-30 and July 25-August 4. Also available is a four-day youth camp for those not quite ready for the intensive camp. Find out more at: chockstoneclimbing.com/tour/youth-smith-rock-climbing-camp Dana’s Discovery Kids offers summer camps from June to August. See more at:discoverykidspreschool.com

Diane’s Riding Place These five-day riding camps take place Monday through Friday from 9am to 12pm, with the option to extend the camp hours until 2pm during some weeks. Camps dates are every week from June 11 – August 31. bendhorseride.com High Cascade Snowboard Camp offers an all-inclusive 8-day summer snowboard camp located at Mt. Hood. They offer six 8-day world-class snowboard freestyle camps. Find out dates at: highcascade.com High Desert Museum offers multiple camps for children in grades K-5. Consult the website for a full listing and don’t delay in registering, as these camps fill fast! highdesertmuseum.org/kids-camp/

Cascade Indoor Sports offers a variety of summer camps, including an All Sports Camp, in their premier indoor sports & family fun facility. They have almost 50,000 square feet for soccer, roller hockey, roller skating, flag football, and lacrosse. cascadeindoorsports.com/kids/sports-camp

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Photo courtesy of Jordan Kent

Photo courtesy of Bend Parks and Recreation

Jordan Kent Multi-Sport Camp comes to Bend June 25-28, July 23-26, & August 13-16 from 9am-3pm. The camp offers football, basketball, or soccer where your camper will participate in skills, drills, and games while learning about nutrition education. T-Shirt, socks, and raffle prizes included!

Open to boys and girls ages 6-12. Cost is $179.95 /139.95 (partial day) Kid Made Camp Is your child a budding business person, restauranteur, artist, designer, or cook? Kids in grades k-4 and 5-8 will learn money management, art and cooking, marketing and sales. Camps available in Sisters and Bend. Sisters: July 16-20, Bend: August 6-10 & 13-18. Contact Angelena: 760415-6345 or go to kidmadecamp.com

MBSEF Cycling has four separate summer mountain bike sessions for kids ages 6-14. Each session is two weeks long with the option of riding two, three, or four days a week. The focus is to build skills and endurance all in a fun, supportive environment. Camps are Monday – Thursday, 9am-11am, June 25-July 5, July 9-19, July 23-August 2, & August 13-23. mbsef.org/cycling/cycling-home MSCS Summer Camp offers Junior Explorers (ages 3-5) and Explorers (ages 6-12) Camps, featuring field trips, arts and crafts, games, water fun, science experiments and handson academic review. Camp is located on an 11-acre private campus with low child to teacher ratio. mscsbend.org

Music Flow offers music day camps the weeks of July 16 and July 23, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9am-1pm at Riverbend Church on Newport. Registration and details at musicflowteaching.com

Photo courtesy of Oregon Olymic Athletics

OMSI Summer Camps offer various overnight camps with themes like Backpacking, Desert Survival, Fossils and Geology. There’s even a family camp! Locations vary throughout Oregon. omsi.edu Oregon Olympic Athletics (OOA) is offering three

summer camps this year, Monday – Thursday for ages 5-11.

Choose mornings or afternoons or full days. Dates are: June

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 43

Expert Compassionate HealthCare for the whole family.

Healthy AdventureS await!

Open 7 Days • Urgent Care Doctors Byron Maas, Lauren Stayer, Erin Miller, Marie Stanley & Tabitha Johnston bendveterinaryclinic.com • 382-0741

KID MADE CAMP Make, Earn & Learn at the Farmers Market

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Day camps for ages 3-5, 6-9 and 10-12.

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Kids make crafty creations and fabulous foods, then sell their wares at the Farmers Market! They learn valuable life and business skills along the way—and have a whole lot of fun. Grades K-4 and 5-8 Sisters July 16-20

Bend I August 6-10

Bend II August 13-18

Learn: Money management, Art and Cooking, Marketing & Sales.

Early Bird Registration ends May 10 with Code EARLY2018 Contact Angelena 760-415-6345 www.kidmadecamp.com Kid Made campers learn from real professionals. Our thanks to the chefs, bankers, artists, and marketing experts from:

Photo courtesy of Tula Movement Arts

for children. These camps not only help all children keep their academic side active and moving forward, but also focus on building executive functioning skills, social skills, self-awareness, perseverance, goal setting and the skills needed to maintain healthy minds and healthy relationships. Camp is for incoming 1st-8th graders and dates are July 1-31 from 8:30am1pm, Monday-Friday. samaralearningcenter.org

Tula Movement Arts offers two exciting camps:

Photo courtesy of Tula Movement Arts

25-28, July 16-19, & August 6-9. Camp activities include: gymnastics, hip hop, cheerleading, martial arts, tricking gymnastics, ball sports, arts & crafts, science and more! oregonolympicathletics.com/camps

Oregon Adaptive Sports offers a variety of youth

summer programs for a wide range of populations, including adaptive cycling, kayaking, hiking and golf. oregonadaptivesports.org

Outward Bound Summer Adventure Camps are

for kids starting at age 12. If your child loves the outdoors and wants to learn important survival skills, these camps are the way to go. outwardbound.org

RAD Camps offer a unique approach to summer with fun excursions to places like Smith Rock, Cultus Lake and Tumalo Creek. If your child loves to explore and be outdoors, this is the one! Camps are geared for kids ages 7-12 and 13-17. Camps run from June to August, meeting at 8am and returning at 4pm. radcamps.com Rhinestone Ranch offers horse riding camps weekly this summer. Children ages 5-18 are welcome. Check the website for exact dates and important information. rhinestoneranchbend.com

Moving Joyfully Camp, for ages 3-6 is filled with art projects, movement exploration, obstacle courses, acrobatics, and games. On the last day, there will be an informal show for families. June 25-29 & August 20-24 from 9am-12pm.

Circus Ninja Camp With multiple days of slacklining, acroyoga, juggling, hooping and aerial yoga, this camp is for total beginners to seasoned circus ninjas. Camp finishes the week with a performance for family and friends. Ages 5-8: July 9-13, July 23-27 & August 6-10 from 1pm-4pm and ages 9+: July 16-20, July 30-August 3 & August 13-17 from 1pm-4pm. tulamovementarts.com

Tumalo Creek Kayak Kids Paddle Sports Adventure Camp. These 4-day camps offer instruction for kids,

ages 8-15. The week includes a day of standup paddleboarding, kayaking, rafting and sailing on Elk Lake. Cost is $395/ week and dates are: June 25-28, July 9-12, 16-19, 23-26, August 6-9, 13-16, 20-23, 27-30 from 9am-4pm. tumalocreek. com/tour/kids-paddlesports-adventure-camp

Wildheart Nature School Summer Camps Nothing gets our nature spirit moving like the summer season! Camps are divided into groups for ages 4-13. Sessions occur weekly, beginning June 25 – August 3. Check out the full schedule online at wildheartnatureschool.com/summer-camps Youth Camp at COCC offers a unique opportunity for children ages 10-14 to explore culinary, technology and special interest subjects like archaeology and aviation on a community college campus. Camps are held Monday – Thursday at all COCC locations: Bend, Redmond, Prineville and Madras. Registration is online and begins April 9. cocc.edu/youthcamp

River Song Montessori camps go beyond the Mon-

tessori curriculum with a stronger focus on global learning, movement and mindfulness, science and exploration. bendriversongschool.org

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School will be hosting an eight-week summer program to keep kids’ brains engaged.

Themes include Fairy Tales, LEGO, Olympics, H2O and more! saintfrancisschool.net

Samara Learning Center Academic Camp The post-summer transition back to school often proves a challenge

Photo courtesy of Bend Endurance Academy

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 45

CULTURE Crater Lake in the Winter Photo Courtesy of Xanterra Travel Collection

Heading South

Adventure to Ashland and beyond

L

By Chris Miller

ooking for an interesting get-away for the whole family? Recently, my wife and I took a road trip with our six-year-old son and the grandparents to Ashland, where the grownups attended the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and found some exciting outdoor and cultural experiences along the way.

There are about as many ways to get to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival as there are plays. Traveling with a first-grader, I recommend you go down 97, then traverse over Highway 62 to the south entrance of Crater Lake, Oregon’s only National Park. Crater Lake in the winter is breathtaking. Seeing the snow covering the rim and Wizard Island is definitely worth the added time in the car. Once you’ve filled your camera’s memory card, head west on 62 along the Rogue River to Medford, then south on I5 to Ashland.

Taking a six-year-old to a three-hour Shakespearean tragedy would be, well, a tragedy. So, I took my

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parents along to make it a family affair. It worked out perfectly: Grandma and Grandpa took the kid to the ScienceWorks Museum, an OMSI-like place located at 1500 E. Main St. in Ashland, while my wife and I caught the matinee of “Othello”. Then at night, we shifted roles. After a delicious meal at Thai Pepper— my recommendation is small plates so everyone can try all the different flavors—we went downtown and had a wine flight, then back to the room at the Plaza Inn and Suites, where we sat in the relaxing spa before renting a movie and going to sleep.

There are so many restaurants in Ashland, it can make your head spin. When the OSF is happening, I highly recommend reservations, especially if you have a large group. We were lucky to get in to Greenleaf Restaurant, which is on Main St.—also known as the Plaza—for a delicious breakfast one morning.

Although we weren’t very fortunate with the

weather, when it’s nice, there are plenty of parks for children to enjoy. North Mountain Park, located at 60 N. Mountain Ave. has an educational nature trail and access to Bear Creek, with good bird watching on sunny days. Lithia Park features a duck pond and plenty of picnic tables throughout. In addition, there are other parks, such as Garfield Park, that have water features in the summer and ample play structures for the kids.

Closeby, historic Jacksonville is about a 30-minute drive northwest of Ashland. The annual Britt Festival, which runs mid-June to mid-September, is a fun place to see music shows outdoors. In the summer, the small towns along the Rogue become meccas for whitewater enthusiasts, with many outfitters who rent rafts and offer guide services. Nearby Shady Cove’s population doubles in the summer with the influx of rafters.

There are hotels and restaurants that come alive with the blazing summer heat as well. Further north near Grants Pass is Wildlife Images, a wildlife rehabilitation center and great spot to take children to see animals up close. There is a grizzly bear, river otters, wolves and even a cougar that will come right up to the wire fencing. The staff are very knowledgeable and the tour takes place under the canopy of large trees.

Back in Ashland, a tour of the town would be incomplete without having the children taste the Lithia Water that pours out of the big fountain in the center of the Plaza. Native American legend says the water has healing powers. I’ll leave that to the Native peoples, and leave out the description of the smell and flavor, so as not to spoil your fun watching your kids’ reactions.

Heading to Ashland?

Take the kids to the ScienceWorks Museum and check out this new exhibit:

Pterosaurs: Ancient Rulers of the Sky April 28th through December 31st!

Pterosaurs lived during the same time as dinosaurs, but aren’t dinosaurs themselves! At this new exhibit built by the Museum, you’ll learn the difference between a dinosaur and a pterosaur, how they moved, ate and lived and where they sit in the evolutionary history of our planet. Enjoy scale replicas of the 18-foot tall Quetzalcoatlus, the well-known Pterodactyls and Pteronodons! The museum is open Tuesdays – Sundays, 10am-5pm.

Photos Courtesy of Science Works Museum Photo Courtesy of Science Works Museum

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 47

HEALTH

Stepping Up Sexual Abuse Prevention Measures: Erin’s Law Helps Keep Bend-La Pine School District’s Kids Safe

By Annette Benedetti

W

ith stories of gun violence in schools splashed across the Internet, newspapers and television screens, it is hard to escape the feeling that you are alone in the effort to protect your children—especially when they are not in your care.

While the debate over gun control and school safety rages on, there is news to celebrate. Our local government has made one big step forward in the effort to protect kids with the passing of Erin’s Law, which requires public schools to be more aggressive in their sexual abuse prevention instruction than they have been in the past.

Erin’s law is named after its founder Erin Merryn, a childhood sexual assault survivor, author, speaker and activist. Merryn first introduced the legislation in her home state of Illinois. It requires that public schools implement a prevention-oriented child sexual abuse program that does the following three things: • Teaches students in grades preK-12 age-appropriate techniques to recognize sexual abuse and tell a trusted adult.

• Educates school personnel on the subject of child sexual abuse.

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• Trains parents and guardians on the warning signs of child sexual abuse and how to get the help they need to support sexually abused children and their families.

Oregon is the 22nd state in the nation to pass Erin’s Law. Although the Oregon Department of Education did not provide a specific curriculum list for Oregon School Districts to use, a K-12 Guidance for Implementation spreadsheet was created that outlined the academic benchmarks required for meeting the bill.

While the Bend-La Pine School district has long implemented the SafeTOUCH sexual abuse prevention curriculum for grades K-5 in every elementary school, the Oregon Legislature’s passing of Erin’s Law in 2015 has forced the school administration to examine what they need to do to meet the new criteria. The district’s Deputy Superintendent Jay Mathisen says the school district is currently working on a review process for its health curriculum to determine whether SafeTOUCH meets all of the requirements outlined by the law.

“We are looking to see if there are gaps…things that SafeTOUCH doesn’t hit,” says Mathisen.

“We are trying to determine whether we change away from SafeTouch to a curriculum that

does a better job addressing those things or we just supplement with our own instruction...”

KIDS Center has long supported the school district’s child sexual abuse prevention efforts, and they were also a huge advocate of the SafeTOUCH curriculum before Erin’s Law came into effect. KIDS Center’s Director of Development and Prevention, Robin Antonson, says the current curriculum fails to meet the criteria set forth in the new law, and while SafeTOUCH has been wonderful, the center is looking at and recommending new options including the Safer, Smarter Kids Curriculum.

“What we found when we looked at Safer, Smarter Kids Curriculum was that it met several criteria even outside of all the Erin’s Law mandates,” says Antonson. “It contains updated, research-based information...(and) since SSK is video-based, it removes the facilitator’s bias in how they present the material and it also removes the burden of having to create the lesson and lecture portion.”

Antonson goes on to explain, “The reason why we recommended SSK for all grades K-12 is that when you use the same curriculum across K-12 that uses the same terminology and builds off of itself, it creates a consistent message and produces positive reinforcement throughout the student’s academic career.”

Mathisen says KIDS Center has been a great partner in the district’s efforts to meet the law’s requirements for staff training. “KIDS Center has had one of their folks scheduled to be in each of our 30 plus schools…delivering a 30-minute training that meets the (law’s) requirements,” he explains. “We’re thrilled that they are giving the time from some of their staff to do it.”

According to Mathisen, the school district is currently working on creating content that is tentatively scheduled to go live on their website in April—Child Abuse Prevention Month. The intent is to help educate and inform parents. “Here we are working with KIDS Center again to get some information pieces that we can post on our website and … share with our principals,” says Mathisen. “We encourage (the principals) to share in their more local communications and to send some things out because… some families can’t access information on the website but (can through) a paper newsletter.”

While addressing the changes required by Erin’s Law takes a good amount of time and effort, the results are worth it. “The purpose is great,” says Mathisen. “There are challenges in the implementation, but the purpose is great. We want to keep our kids safe.”

er m m u S

t r A p! m a C . rs old 12 yea 4 s d ki y for all da y a l p d Art an

2018 CAMPS

3D Art

Nature + Art

Painting Exploration

Clay Exploration

Art + Our Favorite Books

Diy Art Supplies

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Recycle, Reuse, Repurpose

Master Style

Wearable Art

June 18th-22nd, 9am-3pm / Ages 4-10

June 25th-29th, 9am-3pm / Ages 5-12

July 9th-13th, 9am-3pm / Ages 4-10

July 16th-20th, 9am-3pm / Ages 4-10

July 23rd-27th, 9am-3pm / Ages 4-10

July 30th-Aug. 3rd, 9am-3pm / Ages 4-10

Aug. 6th-Aug. 10th, 9am-3pm / Ages 5-12

Aug. 13th-Aug. 17th, 9am-3pm / Ages 4-10

Aug. 20th-Aug. 24th, 9am-3pm / Ages 4-10

Aug. 27th-Aug. 31st, 9am-3pm / Ages 4-10

We keep the groups small, the play fun, and take the studio outside as we savor our Bend summer!

Visit iartbend.com to register today!

Family Mediation & Collaborative Law Helping clients resolve conflict creatively, respectfully, and privately.

* Divorce * Child Custody * Child Support * Spousal Support * Real Estate Division * Retirement Accounts * Business Interests * Drafting Judgments and Parenting Plans

Most family law matters do not need to be resolved through contested litigation, which can drain a family's emotional and financial resources. A non-adversarial focus allows couples to come up with creative and meaningful solutions that are in the best interests of their family.

Phillips & Moore, LLP Gwen M. Moore, Attorney/Mediator www.bendfamilylaw.com 541.385.0505

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 49

OUTDOORS

School Gardens Cultivating growth: for plants and youth

By KM Collins

Student Manny assesses the Pilot Butte aquaponics garden as Samuel feeds the juvenile root system of a new plant into a styrofoam hole where the roots can reach nutrients in the water below. Photo by KM Collins

D

uring their lunch break, a handful of tweens bounce back and forth from several giant containers of water and a long table scattered with test tubes, eye droppers, additives and charts associating colors with chemicals in parts per million. The entire scene could easily be mistaken for a mad scientist’s laboratory.

But creating a monster isn’t the goal here; these students are aiming for lettuce.

During the lunchtime Aquaponics Club at Pilot Butte Middle School, students sacrifice a portion of their social period several days a week to tend an unconventional indoor garden.

This includes harvesting every other week (greens are sold to teachers), frequently testing the water to make certain chemicals are in balance and teaching other students about the process.

Under the direction of their

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science teacher, Colleen Behrens, four of the students who look after the school’s aquaponics garden reveal its simple closed loop process. Isaac Gill, who wants to be a scientist when he grows up, says goldfish are the key to the garden. They are housed in the first two containers of water. When Isaac feeds the goldfish, they produce ammonia.

The grey water containing the fish ammonia excrement gets syphoned into a container with bacteria, which consume the ammonia and produce nitrates.

Fellow student, Samuel Cruzier, shows off the tube that pipes the water with nitrates into the water containers sitting below the lettuce plants—in place of soil. Then, Manny Arvizu demonstrates how to test the ammonia levels while Kahlan Kim explains how to test for nitrate content.

After a field trip four years

ago, Behrens points to Volcano Veggies, a local aquaponics farm business, as instrumental in the inception of Pilot Butte’s aquaponics garden.

During the upcoming spring semester, Isaac, Samuel, Manny and Kahlan will teach fellow students about photosynthesis, bacteria, symbiosis and sustainability through the lens of the garden.

Across town, at the Westside Village Magnet School, a more traditional garden has taken root.

Principal Wendy Winchel says the following quote captures the school’s reasoning for creating a campus garden. “Gardening offers hands-on, experiential learning opportunities in a wide array of disciplines, including the natural and social sciences, math, language arts (through garden journaling), visual arts (through garden design and decoration) and nutrition. With

Photo Courtesy of Westside Village Magnet School

recent concern over relatively weak science and math skills among American children, the need for innovation in science and math teaching is apparent.

There is mounting evidence that students who participate in school gardening score significantly higher on standardized science achievement tests,” (Klemmer, et.al. 2005).

And students agree. Archer Kerr notes that math just seems easier with the garden. Spending time measuring boxes and calculating soil and fertilizer in three dimensions has made word problems more accessible for him.

Indigo Garcia said she enjoyed the friendly competition of building the garden boxes and then helping other teams after hers finished first. “The garden is a fun place to be, and calming,” Indigo said.

“School gardens save lives.

Our garden teaches kids lifelong

skills, world experience, where their food comes from, how to peacefully connect and is a tool for building community,” explains Winchel.

Kids say through the garden they have learned about worms, seed dispersal, germination, soil

Photo Courtesy of Westside Village Magnet School

composition, backyard wildlife and native species. Westside Village even partnered with The Environmental Center to learn Zero Waste principles, and with Monarch Advocates of Central Oregon to learn about and create a waystation for Monarch butterflies in their garden. The Environmental Center has helped several schools get gardens off the ground, meanwhile working with Amity Creek Magnet Shool and others in their own garden on Kansas Street.

Charlie Cooper, who wants to build houses when he grows up, explains he was inspired to start his own garden in his backyard after working in the school’s garden.

“We have deer and I had to learn what works in my yard versus the school’s. It started as a struggle but it has gotten better.” Karen Moore shares that her yard is too small for a garden, but she likes BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 51

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OUTDOORS

Pilot Butte Middle School Aquaponics Club member Isacc reveals how plants get their nutrients through water in an aquatic garden, not soil.

to germinate tomatoes at home and then give them to neighbors.

Patrick Bluhm, teacher and one of the garden coordinators, said the garden is instrumental in demonstrating the uniqueness of the ecosystem in Bend, and harvesting from the garden for the school’s community celebration every six weeks has been fun for the kids. A brick-fired pizza oven stands in the center of the garden which often produces food for school events.

Peppers, tomatoes, arugula, fruit and sunflowers were noted as some of the choice plants in the garden.

Indigo remembered, “When I was much younger, maybe about three years old. I visited my older siblings in the school, I would walk through the garden and felt the sunflowers towering over me like I was in a jungle. The school and the garden are my second home.”

Authors note: My favorite school garden is the Waldorf garden. What is yours? Answer us on social media and don’t forget to attach a photo!

Manny, Isaac and Kahlan test water from each part of the Pilot Butte Aquaponics Garden to see if ammonia and nitrate ratios are satisfactory. Photos by KM Collins

Hand drawn, a diagram of how the Aquaponics Garden system works at Pilot Butte Middle School

BEST of the Nest Spring 2018 | 53

KIDS IN ACTION

Pure Gold Meet freshman artist, Miina McCown

By Lizzi Katz Photo by Caitlin von Gaertner

M

iina McCown has always loved to draw.

This Bend High freshman’s talent was recently recognized with one Silver and three Gold Keys from the 2018 Central Oregon Scholastic Art Awards. Not bad for a 14-year-old whose schedule is too busy for art classes.

I met up with Miina at COCC’s Pinckney Gallery, where the almost 400 pieces of student art honored by Scholastic were on display. Miina admits that she was surprised to be judged so well, and that seeing the talent among her fellow students was “kind of overwhelming”.

Stopping in front of her Gold Key winning painting, she took on the tone of a seasoned artist.

Her acrylic painting began as a realistic self-portrait, but she started to realize that it would look “like something others had already tried,” so she added dashes of color and an undefined entity behind the central figure to add a question: “the entity could be me, or the person in the front could be me. Where does personality begin or end? I really don’t know.”

The Scholastic art awards were not Miina’s only recent artistic accomplishment. She was also honored by having her digital drawing selected by the Nichiren Buddhist Temple in Portland to be printed on the small wooden plaques on which practitioners write a wish to celebrate the Asian New Year.

Miins’s artistic success has come with very little formal instruction. She once took an art class at High Desert Middle School, but this year her elective schedule was too full with studying Spanish and playing violin in the chamber orchestra. While she looks forward to more art classes in the future, for now Miina uses YouTube for instruction. Although she enjoys painting, her favorite medium is her tablet. “With digital art, all your supplies are right there and don’t run out”. Family visits to the Portland Art Museum—and the internet—continue to

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provide much of her inspiration. And while she appreciates the classic drawings of DaVinci, her favorite thing to draw is manga, a form of Japanese comic. Her digital manga style drawings won her two more Gold Keys in the Central Oregon Scholastic competition this year.

The Scholastic Art Competition isn’t over. Out of the 827 pieces of art submitted by artists from 21 schools in Central Oregon, 92 works of art received Gold Keys for excellence. Gold Key winning pieces from Oregon now will go on to national judging.

Miina hopes to be among the national winners invited to attend the national ceremony in June at Carnegie Hall in New York City. The National Scholastic Art & Writing Awards program, which began in 1923, is the nation’s longest-running and most prestigious award program for artistic teenagers. Past winners include Andy Warhol, Ken Burns and Lena Dunham.

Miina and her family moved to Bend four years ago. As a family, they practice the marital art of aikido and study Japanese. She likes Bend, but thinks it’s best for “outdoorsy types,” a category in which she does not see herself. She prefers to spend her time drawing and sees her future studying illustration or graphic design in Portland before settling somewhere in California.

Participating in the Central Oregon Scholastic Art Awards Competition may help her towards that goal.

Five local seniors were awarded $20,000 scholarships to the Pacific Northwest College of Art in Portland this year to continue their art education.

Miina’s advice to other young artists? “Experiment with many things on your own. If you think something is going to look bad, you should always try it. Don’t be afraid to give something a try.”

Cheers to 10 years!

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