Your Family’s Dream Portland Staycation
Vacations are nice, but sticking around the Portland area in the summer offers so many fun opportunities for families. It’s the perfect time of year to get outside and try out new and new-to-you parks, frozen treats, art exhibits and so much more. Here’s our curated list of fun ideas and places to try out during your family’s Portland summer staycation!
5 Family-Friendly Restaurants in Vancouver
If you haven’t been across the Columbia to Vancouver, aka the Couve, lately, you’re in for a sweet family-friendly surprise. Vancouver has so much to offer from ooey-gooey waffles, local fish and chips to a NY-style vegan slice and pinball. These family food spots pair perfectly with summer fun.
Outdoor Therapy for the Whole Family
The healing power of nature isn’t a new idea. Experts date the idea of nature’s healing powers back thousands of years. It can be found across traditional practices and systems, from Indigenous medicines to Ayurvedic, and TCM. Naturopathic doctors recognize nature’s “inherent self-healing process” and take it as one of their six main principles, referred to as the Vis Medicatrix Naturae.1 And even modern e-medical providers mention ecotherapy, or green or nature therapy, as the idea of being in nature to boost growth, healing, and mental health.2
Green therapy isn’t new, but you can always discover new ways to enjoy this health boost.
Originally published in print. Read the article on Ecoparent online.
CARE + GIVING: The Trials and Triumphs of Caregiving
In the Clark County community, and indeed across the world, there’s a population of helpers who often go unnoticed, who stay up through the night, working 24/7 shifts. They care for family members, young and old, often without pay. These are the caregivers in our community, and they are a diverse and extensive group. Like all unsung heroes, the essential work they do to care for those in need is often unappreciated until someone needs their help.
For Youth By Youth
From Vancouver Family Magazine
Many anxious parents have been working to find tools to support their youth through the pandemic and beyond. However, sometimes the best support for a teen is not an adult, but rather fellow teens who can truly empathize with their peers. Mott Poll co-director Sarah Clark, M.P.H. explains, “Some teens may worry that their parents will overreact or not understand what they’re going through. Teachers and school counselors may also have limited time to talk with students in the middle of other responsibilities.” Most parents seem to realize their own limitations with teenagers. In fact, over 70% of parents surveyed agreed that peer support is vital to teens in offering both a better understanding of the situation than adults may have, as well as increasing the likelihood that youth will open up about their current situations.
Noting this important piece of teen development, programs that support peer-to-peer interactions for a variety of communities abound in Clark County. Here are just a few of these fantastic local organizations.
Foul Weather Fun is Good for your Kids
Rain or shine or snowflakes
Sure, the fall and winter days in the Pacific Northwest are shorter than a toddler’s attention span, but that doesn’t mean your kids should stay inside. Connecting to nature and experiencing the outdoors in all seasons is more vital during this pandemic era than ever before. Here’s why your kids need to go outside and play — rain or shine or snowflakes.
When Navigating Speech Delays, Don't Assume You Have All the Answers
Delayed speech is a common issue that can cause a diverging developmental path. Up to 10 percent of preschool-age children will experience some form of speech impairment. The causes of these communication difficulties are as diverse as the expected outcomes. The misconceptions about speech delays seem to share much common ground, however. As a parent of an amazing human with an expressive-receptive language delay, I’d like to correct some of these assumptions.
This article is available in full at ParentMap.
Review: A2 Milk
*Affiliate disclosure - currently all of my paid work is shared via offsite links. I do not at this time receive compensation for posts on my own website. I do, however, get the opportunity to sample some products for free or discounted pricing. I am not paid to write a review.
I stopped drinking regular milk probably 20 years ago. Cereal has never been the same since. That’s not to say I’m unhappy - I really enjoy Blueberry Lavender Almond Milk from Trader Joe’s in my coffee and coconut milk or oat milk with just about anything. I even still use real, hormone-free milk in cooking sometimes, but am careful not to over-consume because I get both stomach and sinus issues.
In addition my aversion to standard milk, I was intrigued by a2 Milk’s New Zealand roots. As a Kiwi-American myself this immediately got my attention.
An alternative to lactose-free milk
People always suggest lactose-free milk to those with dairy issues (who aren’t vegan) but I’ve never found it made a difference to anything beyond my budget. While lactose is the issue for some complaints on dairy, for others it seems to be protein-based. In my the case of a2 Milk, they take the protein issue seriously being made with only A2 beta-casein protein.
Why is this important? A1 beta-casein seems to be linked to many different digestive and health issues. On the minor end is discomfort, but on the major end, this protein has been linked to childhood (Type 1) diabetes and heart disease in adults (via Healthline).
All I know is that both my family and myself saw an immediate difference when we started drinking it. In addition, a2 Milk cows are not treated with the growth hormone rBST*, follow a plant-based diet, and focus on sustainability in their farming — all concerns to me as an eco-focused parent. The product is non-GMO, just focuses on a specific kind of cow.
Is a2 Milk good?
My child and husband are the best taste-testers when it comes to milk — and both of them loved it. Neither guy noticed a discernable difference in taste or texture when compared to regular milk, but everyone felt better when switching to this brand. I tried it in cooking and found that it worked well too. We tried regular milk, chocolate, and coffee creamer. Honestly, we loved them all.
My only complaint is that the chocolate milk and coffee creamer are nowhere to be found in my neighborhood. Fortunately, I can find a half-gallon of the regular 2% for about $4 at my local Target and Safeway. In fact, it’s in my fridge right now!
Review: School Mask Pack
We ordered our first School Mask Pack by Crayola in search of the perfect fitting mask. Finding the right fit has definitely been a challenge in this house. Each family member needs masks that do different things. My husband needs a mask he can wear at work five night a week, that can also be easily removed for a snack or socially distanced break. I leave the house less, but double mask in grocery stores and also run frequently. Kiddo is higher needs but also four. He needs a mask that is comfortable and fits well. If it slips, he’ll try to take it off.
We don’t need a one-size-fits-all mask
We’ve supported a number of local businesses and purchased home-made cotton masks locally. These have been great, but as different family members have borrowed the closest clean mask — we’ve easily stretched out many elastics. I don’t feel the need to commercially purchase more simple elastic straps for this reason. I also love the neck gaiters I’ve gotten from different virtual races, but if you’ve read the news lately — neck gaiters are fine but likely controversial.
School Mask Packs are worth the wait
We ordered our pack of kid’s masks back in June when I still believed in-person preschool might be an option. It was understood that this was a preorder and would be a significant wait. I received these items in early August. If you need a mask right now, you will need an interim purchase until your pack can arrive, as the company has experienced Covid-related delays in shipping and manufacturing.
But it’s worth the wait.
Sealed package that arrives with your mask 5-pack.
The masks arrive five to a pack in a sealed bag, and inside that bag is a washable mesh holder. Preventing mask loss in the laundry is definitely a plus. The masks themselves are colorful and you can choose from multiple patterns on the website including a waterproof version. There are also masks in adult sizes, which we have ordered too.
The company lists the mask materials as:
100% Cotton Outer Layer
Cotton-Polyester Blend Inner Layer
Polyester ear straps
Polystyrene bead stopper
I thought the delivered product fit well-tried on both my child and his stuffed puppy. I was delighted with the ear-adjustment straps. It’s a stretchy elastic with a bead to hold exact ear placement. There’s also a bendy nose wire. I could tell the fit was right because both puppy and child wore their masks the entire time we were out instead of swiftly discarding the face cover.
Overall I’m really happy with the purchase so far, and can’t wait for our adult packs. For a five-mask deal prices run about $35 for kids and $45 for adults when I purchased, making these affordable too.
Masks in mesh bag with use tracker.
School Mask Pack in solid blue.
Survival Tips for Working at Home With the Kids
Originally published on ParentMap.
A local mom shares her experience and offers some practical advice.
Schools and offices are closed, and working parents all over the state are scrambling — and wondering how they are supposed to get anything done?
I typically work from home and manage a rambunctious 4-year-old at the same time. As we all get to grips with the new normal, I wanted to share my experience plus some crowd-sourced tips to help you make it through the coming weeks.
Dye-Free, Naturally Green St. Patrick's Day Food Ideas
One of my biggest food pet peeves is artificial food dyes. It’s not just because I’m allergic to them (I am) or that I can get rashes in funny colours as a result (I do) -- but there seems little good reason to eat artificial food colours at all. In my head, it just isn’t food.
And I’m not alone in this thought.
The Health Benefits of Elderberry
Elderberry syrup is going viral for its antiviral properties right now, so the question is: does it live up to the hype? The short answer is yes, evidence shows elderberry can help support immunity. In lengthier reply, it’s important to remember that with any botanical remedy or DIY supplement, sourcing and product quality are important. If something is touted as a miracle cure, it probably isn’t. An antiviral remedy will not combat a dangerous bacterial infection, nor will most traditional herbal treatments provide a “quick fix.” But now that you know that elderberry can be a helpful tool in your kit for combating winter cold and flu, how do you use it?
A First Look at Outer Space Seattle
Back view of the play structure at Outer Space Seattle.
We spent the evening on Alki last night and had so. much. fun! I know you can’t WAIT to attend the grand opening of our newest indoor play space. As a mom of a kid who’s wired a little differently myself, the experience left us feeling accepted and exercised too.
A First Look
First look, the space is tall with parental seating scattered throughout and cubbies and bathrooms easily accessible. The front door area is gated, so there’s no risk of small escapees. While there is plenty of room to play (a fact my sore muscles can attest to) you’ll notice that the overall footprint is smaller than some of the other play structures like Playdate SEA or Funtastic Playtorium.
Socks and a waiver are required to play. The structure is designed for kids from 1 to 12 and is strong enough to support parents. Unlike the other indoor play platforms I’ve been too, the colored panels are a hard plastic, not a soft (and questionably sanitary) foam. The walls are a hard mesh. Everything feels incredibly sturdy.
The floors each have different playthings and fun obstacles like vertical and horizontal rollers, viewing bubbles, and spinners.
Raining feet on ascent and descent.
If your kid demands that you play too, you’ll find the climb up and down doable but pretty tight. Look for tumbling feet coming right at you! Some parent’s found the rocket side a little tighter crawl, but my non-existent abs made it up and down both sides without much trouble.
In addition to watching for the raining feet, I did also have to closely monitor my own limbs to avoid bopping littles in the face in more crowded locations.
Once you get up top, you’ll find that the room really spreads out with a spacious “penthouse” and full standing room at the balance bridge. There’s also quite a great view out the windows pointing towards Alki.
Accessibility
Sensory support backpacks near the cubbies.
A standout characteristic of this facility is its commitment to inclusivity. According to the owner, it’s “a space-themed indoor play space for kids of all abilities.” Unique in its commitment to the idea that play is for all children, the play space boasts supportive gear for children who can’t handle strong lights and noises. There is a sensory room in the back that my son loved. While not bothered by the excitement himself, he stopped about four times to recharge with fun space-themed toys and books. In here the lights are dimmed and there are soothing colors instead.
For those with mobility issues, the sensory room is easily accessible and there are toys and fun on the lower levels of the play structure. The slide is accessible on just the second level — about standing height for the average adult.
Know Before You Go
This space is new. Some things are still being added or are on the way. The experience is still worth it, but it will also get better. That said, I think I can help with a few pro tips so far:
Balance bridge to the rocket ship.
Water is free via drinking fountain. You will not dehydrate, but LaCroix and Honest Juice are reasonably priced onsite too.
Snacks are available — and I’d look for this menu to expand over time. If you need some additional eats, the Alki Beach strip is full of options.
There IS additional parking available. Ask about this at the front desk.
Alcohol — stay tuned for updates on their page. But don’t forget the location between Cactus and Locust Cider!
The visibility is great if you can convince your child to play without you — you won’t lose track of them as happens in some of the larger play locations.
The staff understands kids who are a little different, working graciously with me to communicate “walking feet” with a child with communication issues.
Bathrooms - yes, onsite. Clean and spacious.
Parent athletes - some spots can be a little tight, or perhaps my dimensions are a bit non-squeeze friendly? Watch your fit and flexibility, as well as your knees.
Try it yourself — it’s outta this world!
New holiday event: a fun run through Candy Cane Lane, in the dark!
The Candy Cane Lane Run is a 5K run/walk event for all ages on Saturday, Dec. 21. But there’s a twist: This is an evening run in the dark, and you even get your own 200 lumens headlamp included with registration.
Fall foliage and trail, from the 20th Avenue NE Bridge
By No machine-readable author provided. Wsiegmund assumed (based on copyright claims). - No machine-readable source provided. Own work assumed (based on copyright claims)., CC BY 2.5.
Race organizer Jimmy Addison says, "The nighttime course will be especially exciting for children because it can feel like exploring a cave with hundreds of others.”
Originally published on Seattle’s Child.
Take a break from shopping to explore technology at this Bellevue pop-up
Curator Aaron Alcorn wants to “grow your curiosity” with a new living computer pop-up exhibit this holiday season at the Xfinity store in Bellevue.
It's outside Bellevue Square in the Fountain Court, so it could be a nice change of pace from holiday shopping or a breather (or warmup spot) on the way to see Snowflake Lane or Santa.
4 Likes, 1 Comments - Kate Hagan (@cloudedkiwi) on Instagram: "So fun to get a preview of the new pop-up exhibit at the Xfinity store in Bellevue. The Twitter..."
The first thing you’ll notice about these interactive exhibits is whimsical fun. The Garden of Light Flowers adds some sparkle and shine to the winter gloom. The more noise you make, the brighter the exhibit gets -- the flowers react to sound, both ambient and directed. Your child can clap, stomp, whisper, or sing to evoke different light patterns in these 6- to 8-foot-tall flowers. The technology alone is worth a conversation with your child. Try this icebreaker: “So, what’s the color of a giggle?”
Originally published on Seattle’s Child.
From kids' birthdays to corporate events, West Seattle mom makes cookies for all occasions
Jennifer Ensign, West Seattle mom of two, has perfected the sugar cookie: They're firm enough to dunk in milk, but chewy enough to fall apart as you take a bite.
33 Likes, 0 Comments - Seattle's Child (@seattleschildmag) on Instagram: "Jennifer Ensign, West Seattle mom of two, has perfected the sugar cookie: They're firm enough to..."
Jennifer Ensign, West Seattle mom of two, has perfected the sugar cookie: They're firm enough to dunk in milk, but chewy enough to fall apart as you take a bite.
What began as a heartfelt batch of lumberjack-themed cookies for her son Jack’s first birthday party grew into Jenn’s Cookie Jar, a home-based, custom cookie catering business.
Originally published on Seattle’s Child.
Art inspiration for kids, with a focus on diversity
Giselle and Josiah Fuerte, West Seattle parents of three, wanted to support their 4-year-old son’s growing interest in making art with a little art history. But when Giselle searched for a few examples of artwork by famous artists, she was dismayed by the limited information available on artists of color.
6 Likes, 0 Comments - Kate Hagan (@cloudedkiwi) on Instagram: "A gift with a purpose, @reallifeartistbox follows @playreallifebricks to provide a diverse..."
Giselle and Josiah Fuerte, West Seattle parents of three, wanted to support their 4-year-old son’s growing interest in making art with a little art history. But when Giselle searched for a few examples of artwork by famous artists, she was dismayed by the limited information available on artists of color.
Originally published on Seattle’s Child.
How Our Germaphobic Habits Are Actually Making Us Sick
Society and marketers teach us to focus on removing all dirt and microbes, but many health practitioners believe that in avoiding all bacteria, we've gone overboard in practices that damage both our health and our environment.
While proper sanitation and hygiene are vitally important, I had to learn to let go and allow my child to build his immune system by getting dirty. Society and marketers teach us to focus on removing all dirt and microbes, but many health practitioners believe that in avoiding all bacteria, we've gone overboard in practices that damage both our health and our environment.
Why Avid Omnivores Go Meatless for May
Reducing meat consumption benefits health and the environment
Despite our love of eating all the things, for one month a year we choose to give up a food group we love for the health of ourselves and our planet and go meatless for the month of May. Here’s why we do it and how you can too.
Originally published on EcoParent.