There was a time that I wanted to be a paleontologist when I grew up. I mean, what kid doesn't, right? All the mysteries and unanswered questions surrounding dinosaurs create the perfect world for a child's imagination to run wild. Unfortunately, I didn't end up trekking around the world digging up ancient bones, but, is it any surprise that Jurassic Park is still one of my favorite movies? (Yep, you saw that one coming!) » Read more
The Dinosaurs Are Back in Town!
Liz Picks: Fun Family Events in Portland, January 22 - February 4
Well, hello there! Let me introduce myself…. I’m Liz, and I’ll be your new NW Kids cruise director in these uncharted waters that we call the Internet. I’ve been covering all the family-friendly fun around Portland for the past six years, first at PDX Magazine, then on LivePDX.com, and, most recently, as a contributor to Neighborhood Notes. Let’s just say I know the city gosh darn well!
And I spend all day behind my laptop so you don’t have to — reading blogs, following Twitter, scouring Facebook for insider tips and links that I can share with you on the our NW Kids blog, in our newsletter (sign up so you don’t miss a thing!), and on Facebook (become a fan!) and Twitter (follow us!). » Read more
Keep the Butterflies at Bay
Even if you have the cool lunchbox, this season's trendiest tees and everything else on the back-to-school list, you aren't really ready until your kiddo feels ready and that can be a hard thing to check off the list. Nervousness is to be expected but we have some tips for you to help your little one keep the butterflies at bay. First, an article on Kindergarten Readiness(http://nwkids.com/Kindergarten_readiness) and then
10 Tips on Getting Tots Ready to Go Back to School (http://nwkids.com/ten-tips-getting-tots-ready-back-school).
A Keepsake Keeper to Store Your Child's Artwork
First grade finger-painting masterpieces, third grade A+ spelling test, sixth grade book report. Where to keep these important documents has long been a question of mamas and papas. Here's one idea, Schoolfolio, a storage system for your kid's artwork or other work. With school starting soon, this will give you a head start at staying organized.
Learn more here: http://www.schoolfolio.com.
Miranda Zine
For that extra special present, give the gift of words. In fact, give yourself the gift of thoughtful, insights on life, mamahood, Portland, you name it. Local mama Kate Hass, the writer and poet behind the Miranda Zine, just published another issue. Kate's work has also appeared in many magazines, and if you haven't sampled her essays on motherhood and adulthood yet, you're in for a treat. Number 17 is out now; only $2. More details, including more about Kate and excerpts, are online.
Posh in the Pearl and Other Shopping News
We may be months from frolicking in Jamison Square, but that shouldn't keep you away from the Pearl, particularly that quadrant, which is fast becoming the toddler zone of Portland. You've got Sip N Kranz, of course, Green Frog Toys, and Posh baby shop, which has just relocated and expanded its footprint. Now situated on 11th and Johnson, across 11th from the square in front of the streetcar stop. If you're into baby gear and gadgets with a modern aesthetic, this is the place for you – from cribs to bouncy seats, to sheets and blankies, the designs are sleek and fun. » Read more
Handprint Holiday Tiles
With several events going on just in time for the holiday season, Hand Print Tiles are a great gift for grandparents or other family members and they are super fun for kiddos to create. Learn more here: http://handprinttiles.com.
Halloween Fun!
Whether your tot plans to be a power ranger or a princess, you'll find tons of fun Halloween activities out there for every little ghoul, goblin or fairy this year.
For some of the more fright-oriented activities, keep in mind that what may be a thrilling adventure for one kiddo might be a nightmare-inducing journey to another. You know your own kidlets better than anyone, so make sure to use your own
discretion when deciding whether or not that haunted house or maze is right for them.
Check out this resource on some things to do for Halloween: » Read more
Indoor Play Parks
The Portland rainy season has officially started – yes, the rainy season that lasts all but a mere three months out of the year.
If in these first few weeks of drizzle, your kiddos are already tired of puddle jumping and are starting to bounce off the walls than you should check out our
Indoor Play Parks resource list – sure to be lots of rainy day fun. Check out that resource list here: http://www.nwkids.com/indoorparks.
Mt. Hood Railroad and the Pumpkin Patch Express
Lots of great stuff has been happening at Mt. Hood Railroad lately including the reopening of the Parkdale rail service. Having been closed for nearly two years due to flood damage on the track, now you can enjoy the beautiful stretch again. A perfect way to view the new fall foliage. » Read more
