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november 2011

Could You Be a Foster Parent?

Why You Need a Will

Got (Breast) Holiday Milk? Gift Guide The 411 on Milk Banks

Sisters Amber, Rose and Donna are currently in foster care.

contents

This Month in Metro Parent

This Month on the Web: Serving the Families of the Portland Metropolitan Area

Exclusively on Metro-Parent.com: Metro Parent Join our Holiday Giving Campaign! Metro Parent is P.O. Box 13660 again matching readers’ donations to JOIN – to enable a Portland, OR 97213-0660 local homeless family to get a new start – and to Mercy Phone: 503-460-2774; Fax: 503-331-3445 Corps – to help those suffering in the Horn of Africa. Publisher Read the details on page 8 – and then visit Metro- Martin Griffy, 503-460-2774 Parent.com to make a difference! [email protected] Enter to win a BIG basket of great baby items – Editor valued at over $400! Visit Metro-Parent.com/contest to Marie Sherlock, 503-460-2774 enter. Contest ends Nov. 30. [email protected] Read a Viewpoint column by Colleen Hermann-Fran- Managing Editor Emily Puro zen, of the American Lung Association of the Mountain [email protected] Pacific. Hermann-Franzen explains why and how to protect your children by creating a “smoke-free zone” in Calendar Editor your vehicle. Teresa Carson [email protected] Stay informed and connected all month long! Family Fun Editor • Sign up for our e-newsletter Sarah Pagliasotti • Follow “Metro_Parent” on TWITTER Contributing Writers • Become a fan of “Metro Parent (Portland, OR)” on Melissa Favara, Anne Laufe, Julia Silverman FACEBOOK Advertising Account Executives

Amber (age 15), Rose (12) and Donna (11) are an amazing and resilient Westside/National/Outside Metro Area sibling group eager to find the security of a loving family. If you would like Debbie Dille, 503-997-4044; fax: 503-352-4373 more information on these children, contact Angela Dindia at 503-542- [email protected] 2349 or [email protected]. Departments Eastside/Vancouver/Washington Ali King, 503-331-8184; 360-695-0455 Editor’s Note...... 6 fax: 503-331-3445 Could You Be a Foster Parent?...... 12 It’s Better to Give … [email protected] Becoming a foster parent could be the most challenging Design & Production Susan Bard Parent Postings...... 8 and the most rewarding experience of your life. Find out For distribution issues, what makes a good foster parent, and how to determine Announcements, community events, e-mail us at [email protected] if you and your family are ready to change a child’s life – fundraisers and other useful information and your own. For calendar submissions, Family Fare ...... 32 e-mail us at [email protected] Old Wives’ Tales To subscribe to Metro Parent, e-mail us at: [email protected]. Why You Need a Will...... 23 Going Places with Ramona...... 34 A one-year subscription is $25. Are you among the 69 percent (!) of Americans with Becoming a School Parent Metro Parent is published monthly by children under age 18 who haven’t yet drawn up a will? Metro Parent Publishing, Inc. and is copyright Then you’ll want to read this article detailing the reasons Angels Among Us...... 35 2011 Metro Parent Publishing, Inc. All rights why all parents of minor children need to take the time to reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part The Children’s Institute without written permission is prohibited. ensure that their wishes are carried out if the unthinkable Metro Parent is distributed free of charge happens. November Family Calendar throughout the Portland, Oregon metropolitan In the Spotlight...... 36 area. Metro Parent reserves the right to refuse Got (Breast) Milk?...... 26 Family Favorite...... 36 advertising for any reason. Distribution of this Family Calendar...... publication does not constitute an endorse- The 411 on Donating to Milk Banks 38 ment of the products or services advertised We all know “breast is best,” but what happens when herein. a mother can’t supply her infant – especially a medically Advertising Sections Metro Parent does not discriminate on the fragile or pre-term infant – with her own milk? For an Holiday Gift Guide...... 19-22 basis of race, color, national origin, religion, increasing number of local families, donated breastmilk is Classifieds...... 47 sex or sexual orientation. Although every effort is taken to ensure the the answer, with at least eight drop sites in the Portland- Advertisers Index...... 47 Vancouver metro area and a regional milk bank in the accuracy of published material, Metro Parent Parties...... 47 Publishing Inc. and its agents and employees works. cannot be held responsible for the use or mis- use of any information contained herein. The contents of Metro Parent and its Web site are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional advice or treatment.

4 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Specializing in conservative & surgical management G of urinary incontinence & childbirth pelvic floor injury.

Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 5 editor’s note

It’s Better to Give …

As I edited this month’s issue, it occurred to me and southwest Washington topped one million as that, although the winter holiday season is upon growing levels of long-term unemployment forced us, we haven’t included an article with a holiday more and more people to fall into poverty and to theme. Then I took a closer look and thought, “Or seek emergency food.” And a recent article in The have we?” Oregonian described a dramatic increase in student After all, when most of us think of the holi- homelessness in the Portland metro area (data days, we think at least in part about charitable giv- included Oregon cities only), from 8,143 in 2004 ing. We take time from our busy festive schedules to 20,545 in 2011, including over 1,500 students in to consider our neighbors in need and do what Beaverton and over 1,200 in Portland alone! we can to make the world a better place. When I These numbers are daunting, but it’s important thought about it that way, I realized two of our to remember that the numbers represent people – features this month explore the theme of giving, people we see every day in our schools and in our albeit from two very different vantage points. neighborhoods ­— and to remember that there are In Could You Be a Foster Parent? (beginning countless ways we can make a difference in their on page 12), we explore what it takes to open your lives every day. Check with your child’s school home and your heart to a foster child, one of the to find out about programs directly benefiting grandest gestures of giving one can imagine. In students in your own community, or visit hand- Got (Breast) Milk? (beginning on page 26), we sonportland.org to find volunteer opportunities offer a glimpse into the increasing popularity of around the area. And if you want to get involved donating breastmilk, typically for medically fragile in something larger, many organizations – includ- infants whose mothers can’t provide the breastmilk ing Children First for Oregon (cffo.org), Family their babies need, a simpler but still remarkably Forward Oregon (familyforwardoregon.org), and generous and valuable way to give. So while we The Mother PAC (motherpac.org) – are working haven’t specifically covered the winter holidays in to enact systemic change, including more family- this issue, I think we’ve provided an apt introduc- friendly legislation, in Oregon and beyond. Metro tion to a season focused on giving. Parent’s Holiday Giving Campaign (see page 8) is This year in particular, there’s much we can another way to make a difference. do to help, especially when it comes to alleviat- The focus on helping others is most prominent ing poverty and homelessness in our community. during the winter holidays, but there’s work to be According to Map the Meal Gap: Child Food done year round. What does your family do to help Insecurity 2011, a report by Feeding America, a others in your community? network of over 200 food banks and the largest How are you working to make hunger-relief charity in the U.S., Oregon has the the world a better place? second highest rate of child food insecurity (a.k.a. hunger) in the nation. At 29.2 percent, we’re sur- passed only by Washington, DC. The Oregon Food Bank recently reported, “For the first time ever, Emily Puro, Managing Editor [email protected] distribution of emergency food boxes in Oregon PHOTO BY studio ess

6 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011

parent postings

Celebrate National LGBTQ Families, Financing an Adoption Month Adoption and more. Free. Nov. 6, 11:30 am to 4 pm. Legacy At least two local events will Meridian Park Medical Center, celebrate adoption this month, 19300 SW 65th Ave., Tualatin. both providing a wealth of re- adoptionmosaic.org. sources for adoptive families and those interested in learning more • Oregon Celebrates Adoption – about adoption: Nov. 19. Many of Oregon’s fos- • Coalition of Oregon Adoption ter care adoption agencies and Agencies Adoption Fair – advocates are gathering for this Nov. 6. Meet representatives fun, free and informative fam- from local adoption agencies ily event to celebrate the joys of adoption. Whether you’ve and find out what it takes to SYSTEM RTESY OF LEGACY HEALTH U become an adoptive parent in already adopted a child from foster care or you’re exploring Oregon and southwest Washing- PHOTO CO ton at the area’s largest adop- adoption for the first time, join the fun – including face paint- foster care adoption. Nov. 19, 11 A $10 million donation from The Robert D. and tion fair. Workshops include Marcia H. Randall Charitable Trust to support How to Get Started, Interna- ing, clowns, story time, adop- am to 3 pm at the Lloyd Center and name the new home of The Children’s Hos- tive family photo shoots, give- Mall. Register next to Macy’s by pital at Legacy Emanuel is the largest in Legacy tional Adoption, Trans-racial Health’s history. Adoption, Adopting Children aways, information booths and the ice skating rink. 503-542- in Foster Care, Adoption and more – and learn more about 2301. nationaladoptionday.org/ events/Oregon. tique, 5433 NE 30th Ave. 503- Make a Difference! 493-4141. milagrosboutique.com. Join Our Holiday Giving Campaign New hospital gets … then shop for schools! Think globally, act locally. You’ve probably heard this expres- a new name sion – a common refrain among the social justice community. During their “Shop for Schools” In recognition of a $10 million We’d like to take this concept to the next level: Let’s think glob- event Nov. 14-16, Thinker Toys donation from The Robert D. and ally AND locally – and then act on both fronts as well. will donate 15 percent of your Marcia H. Randall Charitable Our 2011 Holiday Giving Campaign has two components. We purchase to any local area school Trust, the new home of The Chil- you choose. Last year shoppers think they’re a win-win combination – for needy local families as dren’s Hospital at Legacy Emanuel well as the starving people of the Horn of Africa. earned over $2,200 for local has a new name – Randall Chil- schools, with some schools earn- • Our JOIN “Home for the Holidays” effort. Since 2008, Metro Par- dren’s Hospital at Legacy Emanuel. ing as much as $300. Thinker ent and our readers have been partnering with JOIN, a local non- The nine-story, 334,000 square Toys, 7784 SW Capitol Hwy. 503- profit that assists the homeless in getting off the streets and into foot facility, slated to open in 245-3936. thinkertoysoregon.com. permanent housing, to help families down on their luck transi- Feb. 2012, will be Oregon’s largest tion into stable environments – and keep them there. The cost to provider of pediatric inpatient and get a homeless family into permanent housing through JOIN is trauma services, with a medical Family Forward Oregon $2,500. During November and December Metro Parent will match staff of more than 600 pediatric honors family-friendly our readers’ donations up to a combined reader contribution of medical and surgical specialists, companies $1,250, bringing the total to $2,500. sub-specialists, hospitalists and Show your enthusiasm for • Mercy Corps/Metro Parent match campaign. The famine in the community pediatricians. For companies that create flexibility Horn of Africa has taken the lives of thousands – but the suf- more information, visit legacy- for employees at a Celebration of fering is far from over. The United Nations predicts that 750,000 health.org. Workplace Innovation on Friday, people could starve to death over the next few months in Somalia Nov. 18 at 11:30 am at the Uni- alone. Metro Parent has been matching our readers’ donations versity Club in Portland. The cer- to Mercy Corps since September. At press time, we had matched Shop for Mercy Corps … emony, hosted by Family Forward $1,410 in reader donations (for a total of $2,820). We will con- Oregon, celebrates winners of the tinue to match donations up to a total Metro Parent match of Get a jump on holiday shop- prestigious Arthur P. Sloan Award $2,500 (for a total reader/Metro Parent donation of $5,000). Log ping at Milagros Boutique’s annu- for Business Excellence in Work- on to mercycorps.org/fundraising/metroparentmagazine or go to al Crafty Mamas Holiday Bazaar, place Flexibility – given to Or- metro-parent.com and click on the Mercy Corps web button. featuring a wide variety of locally made goods including clothes, egon employers who are making Be sure to pick up a copy of our “sister” publication, Portland jewelry, toys and more. Plus, 10 work work. For tickets and more Woman, to read a gripping report on The Women of Mogadishu by percent of all sales benefit Mercy information go to familyforward Mercy Corps aid worker Cassandra Nelson. Corps! Free admission. Nov. 6, oregon.org. Together we CAN make a difference! 10:30 am to 3 pm. Milagros Bou- Parent Postings continues on page 10

8 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 9

parent postings

Wings & Waves offers tal Movie Maker family scholarships Enter to win free passes to the Wings & and a “Make Your Waves Waterpark and H2O museum by Own” badge to Evergreen Wings & Waves sharing your family’s knowledge of and enthusiasm for water! encourage girls Waterpark is offering scholar- to explore their ships to reward families for their own interests. For interest in and enthusiasm about information on water. Recipients will receive local Girl Scouts complimentary access to the wa- chapters, visit terpark and H2O Children’s Sci- girlscoutsosw.org. ence Center. Four families will be selected each quarter. To be considered, answer one Parent of the following questions in less Education than 500 words: Child Senses & • What does the term “life needs Behavior. In prepa- water” mean to you? ration for the hec- • Explain the water cycle and its tic holiday season, relationship to landforms and IKEA’s Positive

weather. WATERPARK RTESY OF WINGS & WAVES U Parenting Seminar For more information and explores sensory an application form, visit PHOTO CO integration and evergreenmuseum.org/website/ how it impacts wp-content/uploads/2011/06/ nies. For details, visit artsforall your child’s behavior. Get tips Waterpark_Scholarship_applica- pdx.org. from an occupational therapist to tion.pdf. The first application help your child regulate sensory deadline is Dec. 15. input and discover new tools for Kids who play more, sensory-based activities. FREE. sleep more Nov. 30, 10 am to noon. Space is Aloha and Willkommen According to a recently re- limited; reserve a spot via email: to Musikhaus! leased report from the National lifeimprovement.portland.us@ A new music school teaching Wildlife Federation titled Green ikea.com. Check IKEA-USA.com/ guitar-based music education – Time for Sleep Time, many kids Portland or follow @IKEA_Port- from western steel to jazz guitar today are sleep deprived – and land on Twitter for details on fu- to Hawaiian ukulele and more a lack of outdoor play time is in ture workshops. IKEA, 10280 NE – opened in the Goose Hollow large part to blame. The report Cascades Pkwy. 503-282-4532. neighborhood (1217 SW 19th) in details the sleep-inducing effects October. Musikhaus offers private of exposure to natural light, out- door exercise and the soothing and group lessons as well as per- Mind in the Making: Seven qualities of nature, with sugges- formances and workshops. Visit Essential Skills Every Child tions for helping kids spend more musikhauspdx.com or call 503- Needs. Discover what makes time outdoors to improve their 460-0780 to learn more. young children stay motivated sleep. For more information, visit and engaged in learning through- nwf.org/Get-Outside/Be-Out- out their lives in this workshop There.aspx. Discounted performances led by Ellen Galinsky, president for low-income families and co-founder of Families and “Music for All,” which began New Girl Scout badges Work Institute. Free. Space is offering SNAP (Supplemental encourage tomorrow’s limited; register by Nov. 11. Nov. Nutrition Assistance Program) leaders 16, 2:30 to 4:30 pm. First United cardholders $5 tickets to classical Methodist Church, Collins Hall, music performances in January Next year Girl Scouts of the 1838 SW Jefferson St. mindinthe- 2011, has expanded to become USA will celebrate its 100th anni- making.eventbrite.com. “Arts for All,” now offering those versary but the venerable organi- same deep discounts from a host zation is keeping up with modern of performing arts organizations, times with a new focus on leader- More parent education and parent including several family-friendly ship development. Reflecting the support group information can be theater, dance and music compa- new direction are new badges, found at metro-parent.com. including Product Designer, Digi-

10 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011

Former foster child Misty Menashe – with daughters, (from left) Grace, 3, Etta, 3, and Lucy, nearly 6 – is now an advocate for improve- ments to Oregon’s foster care system.

Could You BeBy Anne a Laufe

Foster Parent? PHOTO BY JOHN KING ccording to Misty Menashe, anyone consider- then years. This month, Joanne, Judith, Misty and ing becoming a foster parent needs to Chance celebrate 25 years of being a family. have a realistic understanding of what they’re getting into. “You don’t have to be perfect,” What Makes a Good Foster Parent? says Menashe, who lives in north Portland. “You The same characteristics that epitomize good just have to know that it’s a learning process and “ It isn’t a parents are needed to be good foster parents, says you have to be willing to change all the time.” Kevin George, foster care program manager for the job to be Menashe is speaking from experience, not as Oregon Department of Human Services. a foster parent or a social worker, but as an adult “They have to be committed and willing to a foster who lived in foster care from the age of 8 to the make the child a priority,” says George, who has age of 18. parent. overseen the state program for 10 years. “And Now 33, Menashe is an advocate for improve- people also have to have time, time just to be It’s a ments to Oregon’s foster care system. She and her there, to sit down with the kids and do homework. younger brother, Chance Moore, were placed in These kids have limited contact with their parents calling.” foster care when their mother, who suffered from so they just need someone who will sit at the park drug and alcohol addiction, proved unable to care – Chance Moore, with them and talk, or not talk.” for them. former foster child George says his agency also looks for people They moved in with Joanne Maney and Judith who can express hope – hope for change, and hope Mayer, who thought the siblings would be stay- that the child’s mother or father is going to get ing just a few days. But days turned into weeks, better so the family can be reunited. Foster Parent continues on page 14

12 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Adopt a Community!

Last spring, a new kind of housing community opened in Port- land in direct response to three specific goals the Oregon Depart- ment of Human Services has for foster children: to increase the number of children ages 8 and older adopted from foster care; to keep siblings together; and to support the relatives who often care for foster children. Bridge Meadows, an intergenerational, affordable housing com- munity in north Portland’s Portsmouth neighborhood, is designed to meet those goals. Nine houses are available to families who have committed to adopting at least three children from the foster care system over five years. In addition, 27 apartments are available to low-income seniors who commit to 10 hours of volunteer work in the community each week. As of the end of September 2011, all of the elder units were oc- cupied and six of the nine homes had families living in them. “More relatives are now taking in all of the siblings (from a fam- ily),” says Executive Director Derenda Schubert. “What’s beautiful is that the kids don’t have to worry about their brothers and sisters and where they are.” For more information, call 503-953-1100 or visit bridgemeadows. org.

Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 13 Above all, says former foster child on what qualities a foster parent Chance Moore – pictured with wife, Allison Jewell-Moore, and stepson, must possess: patience, under- Travin Rodriguez, 5 – foster parents standing and a commitment to need to be patient, understanding and have a strong commitment to the children they take in. the children they take in. “It isn’t a job to be a foster parent,” he says. “It’s a call- ing. Judy and Joanne (Moore’s foster parents) have some Who Can pretty strong moral fiber and character about them that al- Be a Foster lowed them to work through Parent? the hard things with me and my sister.”

There is no set standard for who .net) alderbrookimaging can become a foster parent. PHOTO BY ALDERBROOK IMAGING ( Challenges and Resources • Y ou can be single, married or Foster Parent continued from page 12 Becoming a foster parent is not for the domestic partners. lazy or faint of heart. Most children who are • Y ou can live in a house or apartment, but Leah Brookner, child and family services placed in foster care have been abused or you must have room to house a child. coordinator for Boys & Girls Aid, which runs neglected, while a small number have needs • Y ou must be at least 21 years of age or several foster care programs in the Portland – either physical, emotional or mental – so older. (There are individual circumstances, area, says foster parents also need to be mo- great they can’t be cared for in their own requiring management approval, which tivated to make a difference in a child’s life. homes. Foster parents have to be prepared to may allow a relative applicant between “These are complicated kids,” Brookner says. work with kids who are dealing with difficult the ages of 18 and 20 to be certified as a “The motivation is what keeps emotions and who may act relative foster parent.) (foster parents) coming back.” out or withdraw. • Y ou must have sufficient income to sup- Local foster mom Sabina “ Structure and consis- “Holy cow,” emphasizes port the family. Riggi is one of those dedicated Moore, who now works with • Y ou must be able to physically care for a souls who keeps showing up tency are really families in his job as a Clat- child. for the job. A foster parent important but you sop County deputy, “just • Y ou must pass a child abuse and crimi- since 2004, Riggi says consis- also have to bal- imagine what the kids are nal background check. (Applicants with tency and following through ance those with going through to be put in criminal history will be evaluated on a with consequences are critical foster care.” Moore’s sister, case by case basis. Consideration will be for success with these – or any nurturing and Misty Menashe, adds, “Fos- given in light of the overall context of – kids. Foster parents also have being able to have ter parents have to know the offense.) to be able to express genuine fun. We don’t want where their resources are Oregon welcomes and supports all families caring for the children they and be really good about equally. Families of every race, culture and foster and connect with things (foster parents) to be seeking out those resources. ethnicity are needed to help children grow that are important to them. drill sergeants.” You’ve got to be well-nur- with a strong sense of racial and cultural “My forte is teenagers,” says – Leah Brookner, Boys & Girls Aid tured yourself to take on identity. Applicants are considered regard- Riggi. “I’m very big on letting foster kids.” less of race, ethnicity, gender, religion or sexual orientation. a 14-year-old know what a Luckily, foster parents 14-year-old looks like. These kids don’t have don’t have to do it all on their own. Oregon’s Oregon law does not allow approval of any the tools to figure out adult matters,” she Department of Human Services and Wash- applicant with: adds, “I try to help them understand life ex- ington’s Department of Social and Health • Any history or felony conviction involving pectations.” Services, along with the various private endangering a child. While Riggi is willing to compromise agencies they contract with, offer training • A felony conviction for violent crime, with her foster kids on some issues, she also and ongoing support for those who foster rape, sexual assault, sexual abuse or knows when to hold firm. “House rules are children. homicide house rules,” she says. The consistency foster The training provided prepares adults to • Any history of spousal abuse. parents provide helps children develop into care for kids who may have been abused or Adapted from information on the Oregon De- healthy, stable adults. neglected. Topics include agency rules and partment of Human Services website (oregon. Chance Moore, now married with a procedures; how to work with schools, thera- gov/DHS/children/fosteradopt/foster/faq.shtml). 5-year-old stepson, has very definite views pists and other service providers; effective Foster Parent continues on page 16

14 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 15 Foster Parent continued from page 14

Sure it’s challenging, but even single parents like Erin Middleton can make great foster parents! child-rearing techniques and how to apply them; and dis- cipline without punishment. Once the training is complete, each foster family works closely with a state certifier to ensure a good match. The certifier remains in close contact after a child is placed, offering guidance and information about additional re- sources available to the family. Brookner says her agency considers foster parents part of a team working together to better the lives of foster children. In addition to four days of precertification train- ing, Boys & Girls Aid holds monthly meetings/support groups where parents can share what’s working and what’s not. Kids see their case managers almost every day, and home visits take place once every six months. Many of the agencies also offer respite care – time off for foster parents while the children are cared for by another certified adult. While the formula varies for dif- ferent organizations, Boys & Girls Aid offers one day of respite for every 15 days of care, or two days off each month. Despite the challenges of being a single foster parent and the immense responsibili- ty of caring for someone else’s LSKY U children, Erin Middleton loves being a foster mother. She feels her skills as a listener

PHOTO BY NICOLE POT and a collaborative problem solver, and her ability to lend a neutral ear, are invaluable You might be a to the youth she fosters. good foster parent if … “Most of the people in their lives are focusing on • patience and humor are two of your greatest strengths. (the foster child’s) prob-

• you are compassionate and open-minded, and reaching out to others lems,” says Middleton, who RTESY BOYS & GIRLS AID GIRLS & BOYS RTESY comes naturally to you. U lives in north Portland. “It’s

• you know the importance of being part of a family. nice to be the cheerleader PHOTO CO PHOTO • your entire family is committed to the challenges of parenting Foster parents are part of a team work- and be able to say, ‘Great! ing together to better the lives of foster a foster child. children, says Leah Brookner, child and You made your bed without • you want to make a difference in a child’s life. family services coordinator for Boys & me asking,’ or, ‘You were Girls Aid. • you have room for a child in your heart and your home. really nice to that woman back there!’.” Foster kids need parents who can … • accept their sense of loss and need to heal. Making Foster Care Work for Your Family • share their sense of humor. While every family and every foster child is unique, • be self confident but not afraid to ask for help or support when needed. there are some universal tips experienced foster parents • work with social workers, teachers, therapists and community partners. and children offer to those who are new to the job. Above • be willing to keep them connected to their family and community. all, they recommend developing a support system, tend- • support racial and cultural diversity. ing to your own needs, and using respite care so you don’t • accept and nurture a child not born to them. burn out. The work is demanding, whether you’re single or • be patient yet persistent. have a partner, so make sure you give yourself a break. Adapted from information on the Oregon Department of Human Services website When Mayer and Maney were raising Moore and Me- (oregon.gov/DHS/children/fosteradopt/foster/faq.shtml). nashe, Mayer says, they found it helpful to spend time

Foster Parent continues on page 18

16 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Compensation for Foster Families

Foster parents are paid a modest amount to house and care for foster children, with reimbursement rates vary- ing according to the child’s age. In Oregon, the base monthly rates are $639 for ages 5 and under, $728 for ages 6 to 12, and $823 for ages 13 to 20. In Washington, the base monthly rates are $423.68 for ages 5 and under, $500.69 for ages 6 to 11, and $575.30 for ages 12 and up. These payments are intended to assist in the cost of providing food, clothing, housing, daily supervision, per- sonal incidentals and basic transportation. Foster parents of children who require enhanced supervision or extra medical care receive additional reimbursements.

Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 17 Pediatric Health Topics continued from page 16

When Misty Menashe and Chance Moore Want to Learn More? (pictured at ages 10 If you’re interested in becoming a foster parent in Oregon or Washington, you can and 9, respectively) first arrived, foster parents start by contacting the state or a private agency. Private agencies tend to special- Joanne Maney and ize by age, special needs or other features of the children they match. Because they Judith Mayer expected typically work with higher-needs children, they often provide more ongoing support the siblings to stay only a few days. This month than the states. the four are celebrating 25 years of being a In Oregon, the state contact is the State Foster Care Inquiry Line at 1-800-331-0503. family. (Some information also is available online at fosteroradopt.com.) The Washington state contact is the Statewide Foster Parent Recruitment Information Center at 1-888-KIDS-414 (888-543-7414) or dshs.wa.gov/ca/fosterparents/.

Private agencies in the Portland area include: Boys & Girls Aid, which specializes in placing adolescents: 503-222-9661; boysandgirlsaid.org Bethany Christian Services: 503-200-5748; bethany.org Catholic Community Services, operating in Washington state: 360-328-5696; ccsww. org. Innovative Services NW, also operating in Washington state, this agency trains adults to provide respite care for parents whose children have special needs: 360-601-8850; innovativeservicesnw.org. Maple Star Oregon, specializing in therapeutic foster care: 503-290-1900; maple- staror.org Service Alternatives, which offers three levels of foster care - regular, specialized and therapeutic - operates in Oregon and Washington. 360-891-9670; servalt.com Trillium Family Services, specializing in therapeutic foster care: 503-234-9591; trilliumfamily.org

More information and resources are available through: Foster Family Care Network of Oregon: 503-542-4011; fosterfamilycarenetwork.com Foster Parent Association of Washington State (FPAWS): 1-800-391-2273; fpaws.org Oregon Foster Parent Association: 1-888-544-3402; ofpa.com DITH MAYER Oregon Post Adoption Resource Center: 503-241-0799; orparc.org U PHOTO BY J

with other foster families because they had a or sexually abused may act out physically or better understanding of what the kids were go- sexually toward other children in the household.) “Most of the people ing through. Middleton and Riggi also say they Keep an eye out for age inappropriate sexual lan- get reenergized through frequent meetings with guage or behavior or aggressive actions, she says, in (foster children’s) other foster parents. and notice if the other children in the home feel lives are focusing on Others mention the need for a sense of humor, uncomfortable around the child or avoid engag- their problems. It’s and the willingness to loosen up now and then. ing with him or her. Knowing what each child has been through also helps foster parents as nice to be the cheer- “Structure and consistency are really important but you also have to balance those with nurtur- they begin to establish new routines and behav- leader and be able to ing and being able to have fun,” says Brookner. iors, Mayer adds. say, ‘Great! You made “We don’t want (foster parents) to be drill ser- Menashe, who has 3-year-old twins and a your bed without me geants.” daughter turning 6 next month, says she might While some foster parents, particularly those some day become a foster parent, but she wants asking,’ or, ‘You were who provide short-term care, say it’s not neces- to wait until she can do it as well as the adults really nice to that sary to know everything about a child’s back- who fostered her. woman back there!’.” ground, Mayer believes it’s essential. She encour- “You have to be prepared to make a commit- ment,” she says. “You have to do whatever it takes – Foster mom Erin Middleton ages foster parents to get as much information as they can from the child’s case worker so they can to help the kids succeed.” protect themselves and any other children living with them. (Foster kids who have been physically Anne Laufe is a Portland freelance writer and mom.

18 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Holiday Gift Guide

Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 19 Holiday Gift Guide

20 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Holiday Gift Guide

Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 21 Holiday Gift Guide

22 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Why You Some couples do the DIY approach with wills. But for those with young children, having a lawyer set up Need testamentary trusts to receive assets may be a better approach. A lawyer can ensure that your will is executed properly, and that it a Will includes everything By Julia Silverman that your family needs.

“ There is no one out there who would raise your kids exactly the way you tatistics show that drawing up a would. … Look for people whose val- S familiar in the Pacific Northwest? last will and testament is not a chore ues and parenting style are generally You’ll also want to consider the age that most of us relish. According to a consistent with your own.” of the proposed guardians as well as 2007 poll by Bankrate, Inc., 57 percent of – Katharine West, attorney their health and financial stability. Americans don’t have wills. The numbers What do you think of the job they’ve are worse for parents, with 69 percent of those with children un- done raising their own kids, if they have any? Of course, whoev- der age 18 admitting they’d yet to execute a will. er you choose will have to agree to accept guardianship of your But it’s precisely parents who most need to think about – and children if the need should arise. then follow through on – writing wills. After all, says Trina Montalban, a Portland estate planning lawyer and the mother of Money Matters a 4-year-old, when you leave the kids with a babysitter, you give Some parents divide guardianship and money management, her a list of emergency contacts and instructions about meals, says Montalban, especially if they’re concerned that the person bedtimes and more. If the unthinkable happens, would you want they want to raise their children in the event of a catastrophe your kids left without even a basic blueprint? might not be the best person to manage the money or assets they “Life is uncertain,” Montalban adds. “(You) shouldn’t draw up leave behind to pay for the kids’ education and support. a will based on fear, but kindness.” If that’s the case, you can designate a financial trustee to hold the purse strings during the rest of your child’s upbringing, Naming a Guardian which is especially important if there’s a large pot of money to For most parents, the place to start is choosing a guardian. consider. Be sure to discuss these plans in advance with both the The decision can be quite difficult, says Katharine West, an guardian and trustees to avoid hurt feelings in what would obvi- estate planning lawyer with the Portland firm of Wyse Kadish ously be an already painful and difficult time. LLP. But try not to let the perfect be the enemy of the good, she What if you’re not sure you have enough assets to justify a counsels. trust? You’ll want to assess your financial situation, then decide “There is no one out there who would raise your kids exactly whether a trust or a custodial account makes the most sense for the way you would,” West says about deciding who to name as your children. (Speak with an estate planner, or read The Mom’s a guardian. “It may not be a family member but a friend who is Guide to Wills and Estate Planning by attorney Liza Hanks best suited for the job. Look for people whose values and parent- [NOLO, 2009], for details about the pros and cons of each option.) ing style are generally consistent with your own.” Consider your child’s existing relationship with the proposed Executors, etc. guardian and the location of their home. Do you really want your You’ll also need to name a personal representative (often kids sent to live with Aunt Madge in Boston, far from everything called an executor) – someone to pay your debts and taxes, settle Why You Need a Will continues on page 24

Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 23 Why You Need a Will continued from page 23 your expenses and supervise bleak experience into unlikely the distribution of assets. Mon- fun by completing the online talban also suggests you con- wills with friends during a sider preparing an Advance Di- weekend at a Mt. Hood cabin. rective and Power of Attorney. As a bonus, they were able to The former lets you appoint a be each other’s witnesses as representative to make medical Oregon law requires two other decisions for you in case you people to witness the signing are incapacitated and allows of a will. you to state what types of life But there are trade-offs in support – if any – you want going the do-it-yourself route administered if you are per- and both West and Montalban manently unconscious or close discourage that approach, to death. A Power of Attorney Peace of mind pointing out that there are enables you to appoint some- may be the biggest reason special issues to consider when body you trust to access your to have a will parents make out their wills. drawn up. accounts to financially support “Leaving assets to minors is you and your family until you a little tricky, and easy to mess recover. What happens if I die up,” warns West. “If you do it wrong, you without a will? end up with the assets being held in a court- supervised conservatorship, which can be How Much Will It Cost? If you die without a will, your assets will Having an attorney prepare your will can be distributed according to your state’s law expensive and results in the children having cost anywhere from a few hundred to several of intestacy. Rules vary by state, but gener- their entire inheritance handed to them in thousand dollars, depending on your situ- ally a surviving spouse or registered domes- a lump sum at age 18” – an age when most ation. Most young families will pay on the tic partner is the primary heir. The children, kids are simply not ready to handle financial lower end of that scale, according to West. and even parents, of the deceased may also issues. “A lawyer can set up a testamentary be entitled to a share, depending on the “Two basic wills with testamentary trust pro- trust to receive assets,” adds West, “and state and the situation. If there’s no surviv- avoid those kinds of problems.” visions – including ancillary documents such ing spouse or domestic partner, the children as powers of attorney and advance directives, usually inherit everything – which can be a As an incentive for parents to find the and assistance with beneficiary designations big problem if those children are minors. time to draw up their wills, West makes this – may cost as little as $800,” she explains. “In Oregon, blended families need to be final analogy: “A fairly simply will-based In the past few years, opportunities to cre- particularly aware of the laws of intestacy,” plan can cost about the same as a year of ate wills online have increased dramatically cautions Katharine West, an estate plan- homeowner’s insurance, and doesn’t come and some couples have found it to be a cost- ning lawyer with the Portland firm of Wyse with an expiration date.” Kadish LLP. “If your spouse or domestic effective option (most online wills cost less partner has children you have not adopted, than $100). When northeast Portland parents the laws of intestacy entitle them to 50 Learn more about estate planning at osbar. Darcy and Kevin Cronin made a New Year’s percent of any assets held in your spouse org/public/legalinfo/wills.html (Oregon) or resolution to draw up their wills several years or partner’s name. This is not a result most wsba.org/media/publications/pamphlets/ ago, they turned what could have been a couples would choose,” she adds. wills.htm (Washington).

24 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 25 Kimberly Bepler, St. Vincent Medical Center’s drop site coordinator, packs donor milk for shipment to the Mothers Milk Bank in Denver, Colo., for Got processing. (Breast) Milk? The 411 on Donating to Milk Banks By Anne Laufe RTESY OF THE NW MOTHERS MILK BANK U PHOTO CO

ust weeks before baby was due, Sapna Parker, a pediatrician who number had more than quadrupled to 1.8 million ounces. Even so, j with one in eight children nationwide born prematurely – over practices in Sherwood and does rounds at Providence Newberg Medical Center, learned that the hospital would be keeping donated 10 percent in Oregon and Washington – HMBANA estimates that it breastmilk on hand for babies who needed it. would take eight million ounces each year to meet the needs of these When her son was born, he became one of the first babies to use fragile babies. it. The infant, now 18 months old, arrived with a hematoma (severe Why Breast is Best bruising of the skull) and was treated with phototherapy, a type of June Winfield, longtime La Leche League leader and International light therapy similar to that used to treat jaundice. He had to stay in Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), retired from Legacy the hospital an extra day for the treatment and needed to be fed, but Health System four years ago and Parker’s milk had not yet come in. has been volunteering full-time to “Like blood, breast- Instead of turning to formula for her newborn, Parker asked that help get a milk bank off the ground milk is a life-saving he be fed donated milk until she was able to feed him herself. in Portland ever since. (See “Start- “I knew I wanted to breastfeed,” she says. “It’s such an emotional ing a Local Mother’s Milk Bank” on substance. The milk issue and it felt nice that I didn’t have to give him any formula.” page 27.) is tested, processed, Parker is among a growing number of mothers across the coun- Now board chair as well as ex- and given back to try who are opting for donated breastmilk from a human milk bank, ecutive director and president of the nascent Northwest Mothers Milk those who need it.” rather than formula, for their fragile infants when they’re unable to – Rebecca Stepaniak, MD nurse their babies themselves. The donated milk is screened and pas- Bank (NWMMB), Winfield says, teurized at regional milk banks to be dispensed as prescribed by doc- “Mother’s milk is the gold standard tors, usually for premature infants who are still in the hospital. for all babies and formula is at the bottom. Donated milk is the second best choice, according to the According to the Human Milk Banking Association of North World Health Organization and the AAP (American Academy of Pedi- America (HMBANA), a nonprofit organization that sets standards atrics). Even though pasteurization does change the properties some- for and helps facilitate operation of milk banks, there are currently what, it’s still much better than formula.” 11 milk banks in the United States and Canada, with six more under development. HMBANA notes that North American milk banks dis- Breastmilk has been shown to include the optimal mix of proteins tributed 409,000 ounces of human milk in 2000; by 2010, that and antibodies for babies, to be easier to digest than formula, and to Got (Breast) Milk? continues on page 28

26 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Starting a Local Mother’s Milk Bank The Northwest Mothers Milk Bank (NWMMB) is getting closer to be- coming a reality. An office and lab space, donated by Providence Health, opened in September at 417 SW 117th Ave., #105 (part of Sunset Medical Plaza). All that’s needed now, says NWMMB board chair June Winfield, is the equipment to run the bank. That’s why their latest fundraising campaign is dubbed “Fill the Space.” To date, the NWMMB has raised about 40 percent of the $400,000 needed to buy a milk analyzer ($52,000), a pasteurizer ($33,700), a walk-in freezer ($10,000) and the other items necessary to set up shop. The board of directors hopes to raise the money soon, so that local drop-off sites can stop sending thousands of ounces of breastmilk out of the area to be processed, only to be purchased by local hospitals. “It’s just mindboggling how much milk leaves the state. We package it up and then we buy it right back from them,” says NWMMB vice chair Joanne Ransom. “If people saw how often that’s happening, opening a local bank would be a no-brainer.” NWMMB advisory board chair Dr. Rebecca Stepaniak adds, “We are obviously wasting a lot of resources by not having a milk bank here. It would reduce costs significantly.” Winfield estimates that the Portland milk bank will affect the lives of 900 infants in its first year, and that the number will grow in subsequent years as more hospitals begin using donor milk. “This is needed for the health of our community,” she says. “It could impact the health of the whole northwest.” To learn more, or to donate money, time or milk, visit nwmmb.org.

Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 27 The Northwest Mothers Milk Bank needs your help. Do- nate an amount equivalent to a piece of equipment and you’ll get your name engraved on a plaque on the Learn More equipment for posterity. Northwest Mothers Milk Bank: Includes a complete list of donor drop-off sites in Oregon and south- west Washington. nwmmb.org Human Milk Banking Association of North America: hmbana.org Center for Disease Control Breast- feeding Report Card: cdc.gov/ breastfeeding/data/reportcard.htm RTESY OF THE NW MOTHERS MILK BANK U Got (Breast) Milk?

continued from page 26 PHOTO CO

offer protection from illnesses, including asthma, obesity, type 2 dia- their health care provider, as well as the baby’s provider, assuring that betes and some respiratory infections. their own child is receiving enough milk. The next step is a blood For premature babies, opting for breastmilk over formula can be screening, usually done locally, to test for HIV, hepatitis and other vi- even more crucial. According to NWMMB, breastmilk increases the ruses and infections that could be transmitted through breastmilk. health and survival rate of preterm babies and Finally, if a woman has come through all these reduces the length of neonatal intensive care “Since the first local donor with a clean bill of health, she can deliver her unit (NICU) stays. Premature babies who are fed collected breastmilk to one of 10 collection sites breastmilk also have a lower incidence of necro- drop-off site opened in throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. tizing enterocolitis, a serious intestinal infection October 2008, well over From there, the milk is shipped, on ice, overnight unique to preemies. 50,000 ounces have been to the chosen milk bank. The advantages of breastmilk have been collected.” There the milk is pooled with that of other widely touted for years, even before scientific moms, labeled and pasteurized. The milk is tested – Joanne Ransom, RN, IBCLC studies confirmed them. The first American milk again for bacteria levels, then stored in freezers bank opened in Boston in 1911 (!), although with until the bank receives an order, usually from a the discovery of AIDS in the 1980s many milk hospital, and it’s shipped out again. banks closed their doors. Now that the medical community is promot- According to Winfield, in the 100-year history of milk banking, ing breastmilk as the healthiest option for babies, regional milk banks there has never been an adverse health effect from breastmilk that are making a comeback. was pasteurized.

How Milk Banks Work Who Gives? Who Receives? Dr. Rebecca Stepaniak, a pediatrician and chair of the medical ad- According to the 2011 Centers for Disease Control “Breastfeeding visory board for NWMMB, says that milk banking is similar to blood Report Card,” Oregon and Washington moms rank near the top for banking. breastfeeding initiation and breastfeeding at 12 months. This sup- “Like blood, breastmilk is a life-saving substance,” she says. “The portive climate means that many women are willing to donate milk to milk is tested, processed, and given back to those who need it. People moms and babies who need it, local experts say. understand blood banking and they understand that it’s safe, so it’s a “We have an abundant number of donors, and that’s without re- good analogy.” ally trying very hard to tap into the available market,” says Joanne Because there isn’t yet a mother’s milk bank in Oregon or Wash- Ransom, RN, IBCLC, and vice chair of NWMMB. “Since the first local ington, local women who want to donate milk work with the nearest donor drop-off site opened in October 2008, well over 50,000 ounces operating milk banks, which are in Denver, Colorado, and San Jose, have been collected.” California. Interested donors first undergo a phone screening to make Women donate their milk for a variety of reasons, but Winfield sure they meet certain minimum criteria established by HMBANA. If says most breastfeeding moms understand the importance of human they pass the initial screening, they must send a written release from Got (Breast) Milk? continues on page 30

28 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 29 Members of the Board of Directors of the North- west Mothers Milk Bank stand in front of the office and lab space donated by Providence Health & Services. From left: Rebecca Stepaniak, Maggie Leyburn, Joanne Ransom, Lesley Mondeaux, Dixie Whetsell, Annette Magner, former director Peggy Andrews, Bethy Annsa and June Winfield. RTESY OF THE NW MOTHERS MILK BANK U PHOTO CO Got (Breast) Milk? continued from page 28

milk for babies and want to give back to others. body and her breasts aren’t ready for the baby.” Some donors have had a previous premature baby Donated milk also may be used when a baby is themselves. Others are producing more than their flown to a hospital from a rural area that has no own baby needs, or have milk left in the freezer NICU without its mother or if the mother is sick or after their babies have weaned and don’t want to has to return home to care for other children. see it go to waste. Still others have lost a baby, and In recent years, research has shown that breast- pumping milk for someone else’s child is part of milk sets the foundation for infant health and may their grieving process. affect health later in life as well. In light of these The amount of milk women donate varies, al- findings, Surgeon General Regina M. Benjamin is- though the local drop-off sites require a minimum sued a Call to Action to Support Breastfeeding in of 100 ounces to make the cost of shipping worth- January 2011, outlining steps to remove obstacles while. Most women give three or four times, aver- faced by women who want to breastfeed. aging about 600 ounces total. Ransom says this new emphasis on exclusive Winfield says the majority of hospitals in the breastfeeding and the growing awareness of its Portland area now stock breastmilk, ordered from importance have resulted in increased demand on the milk banks in Colorado and California, in their milk banks, and have fueled efforts to open new NICUs and family birth centers. They only keep a ones. And that’s exactly what Parker – who under- small amount on hand, about 30 ounces, because stands the need for human milk from both a pro- November 15 premature babies need just a few milliliters at a fessional and a personal standpoint – would like to 7 pm O’Connors time for their first feedings. see. Multnomah Village If there’s a shortage of donated milk, preemies “Hopefully there will be more and more support get first priority, followed by healthy babies who to make a local bank a reality,” she says. “I hope it Visit need just a small amount. The donated milk is used becomes clear to everybody in the community that timeoutcomedy.com for info to bridge the gap between the baby’s birth and the there is a real need, and it’s just so healthy.” time when the mother is producing her own milk. “A mother who has had a premature delivery is Anne Laufe is a Portland freelance writer and mom. already off to a rocky start,” says Stepaniak. “Her

30 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 31 Family Fare

We’re always on the lookout for restaurants that selection, including a number of small plates can please entire families, but when the holiday season rolls (think beans, applesauce, fruit with cheese and a roll) to please around, we search for even more. We look for restaurants that can every palate. The dessert menu also is extensive, and you’ll find a please entire extended families, from great-grandparents to baby long list of daily specials, too. cousins. We look for restaurants that cater to a wide variety of Liquid Refreshment: Again, the menu is extensive, with a va- tastes and dietary restrictions. We look for restaurants that give riety of coffee, espresso and tea drinks, plus soda, juice and soy our out-of-town visitors a uniquely “Portland” experience. and rice “milks.” Beer, wine and You’ll find all that and more at hard cider also are available. Old Wives’ Tales Restaurant. What’s Cool for Kids: The color- A Portland icon since 1980, Old Something for Everyone at Wives’ Tales features fresh, seasonal ful play room – which may have produce, whole grains, wild seafood been the first of its kind in the and other healthful, natural ingre- Old Wives’ Tales region! – is a huge plus for little dients. The menu has plenty to offer ones, giving them a chance to vegans and vegetarians as well as frolic while the adults sit and Restaurant chat. The dessert meat eaters, plus a wide range of menu includes a options for diners “build your own with food allergies dessert” option, and those follow- so budding chefs ing gluten- and can get cre- dairy-free diets. ative with their They serve break- sweets. fast, lunch and Ringing It Up: dinner (breakfast Because the is served any menu offers so time!), and with many choices, two spacious din- you’ll find every- ing rooms and a thing from small designated play plates for a few room for toddlers bucks to hearty to 10-year-olds, entrees with add- you can relax and Above: Old Wives’ Tales recently added a new mural above ons and soup or enjoy a leisurely the front door reflecting the local bounty that’s graced their salad for $20 or more. meal with friends menu for over three decades. Complete menus, includ- and family no Right: The brightly colored play room invites kids in with plenty ing prices, are available matter how large of places to climb, crawl, peek out and pretend. online. – or small – your party. Keep In Mind: The play What’s Cooking: When we say there’s something for everyone, room can get crowded we mean it. The extensive lunch and dinner menus feature a during peak dining wide array of dishes, from house-made soups and a salad bar to times, so keep an eye on a variety of sandwiches to multi-ethnic entrees including burritos your kids to make sure (traditional with beans and cheese or East Indian with red lentil everyone plays nicely and tomato dal), Greek pasta and spanikopita, a Japanese vegetable stays safe. A private din- and egg pancake, salmon cakes and more. Plus, each item is of- ing room is available for fered with diverse sauce, side and add-on options. (Honestly, it can groups of up to 32. be a bit overwhelming! You might want to peruse the menu online Where and When: 1300 before you go.) E Burnside; 503-238- Breakfast is served all day, with options ranging from pan- 0470. Open 8 am to 8 cakes, crepes and oatmeal to omelets, tofu scrambles, huevos pm Sun.-Thurs.; 8 am to rancheros and beyond. Even the children’s menu offers a diverse 9 pm Fri.-Sat. oldwives- talesrestaurant.com.

32 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 DIAPER SERVICE & Infant Furniture Bring in this ad for 1 FREE WEEK DIAPER SERVICE with 4 prepaid weeks

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Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 33 going places with ramona

By Melissa Favara

or those of you who can’t believe your toddler will ever become a Lesson Four: Your Kid Will Get Lice. You will see your kid scratching Fkindergartner, here are some lessons learned: her head, perfunctorily glance at her scalp, and see what you presume to be hereditary dandruff, look up natural remedies, then douse her scalp Lesson One: It Really Will Happen. It’s hard to swallow. I cherished with cider vinegar for days, needlessly making her smell like a pickle. my baby, my toddler, and thought of kindergarten as though it were El Then, at a packed birthday party when your kid is really scratching, you Dorado – a distant mirage. Next thing I knew, Ramona was screwing up will look closely and see two alien creatures creeping and have to her face for the DTAP vaccination announce to everyone that you and we were filling out forms. have brought parasites into the Then, I was watching behind party. (See October’s Metro Parent the tempered glass of her class- for tips on dealing with this prob- room door, the principal giving lem.) Then you will have to tell the me the fisheye, unable to walk parents of her best school friends out. I would tell you to prepare your kid has lice. for this, but you really can’t – just know it’s coming. Lesson Five: Other Parents Will Like You. This is true even when Lesson Two: Join the PTO, your kid has lice and you are kind Even if You Feel Nervous. of bad at PTO meetings. In the hall- Man, I felt unprepared. I way, a week after the PTO meeting, wanted to be involved with my you will shamefacedly tell the par- little chicken’s education, but I ents of James and Sara (not their also cherished the fear that PTO real names) that your kid has lice stood for Parents Totally On- and hugs their kids often. You will Top-Of-It – which I didn’t feel I shamble away with your kid, from was. You will deposit your kid whose head you have been pick- in the gym with the nice atten- ing nits for a week. You will calm dant and proceed to the library, yourself with the reflection that nit sit down in a tiny kid’s chair, A Primer combs were found in the tombs of and not know what to say. You the Egyptian kings, and remember will wish you had changed out on Becoming that This Happens to All Kinds of of your work clothes to ap- People. Certain that you are a bad, pear more approachable, or a School too-frequently-hand-raising, lice- you will wish you had kept bearing pariah, you will pass the your work clothes on to ap- Parent PTO mothers you informed of the pear more trustworthy. You will outbreak in the hallway, overhear- reflexively volunteer for the ing one remark, “That was so great fundraising committee, the arts that she told us! I would have been committee and the technology too ashamed!” You will reflect that committee, regardless of your maybe you are too self conscious knowledge of those areas. You and that the next PTO meeting will will answer emails about those be easier, and that maybe you and commitments late, but you will your kid have some new friends. answer them. Feel okay about that. Halfway through the meeting, the nice attendant will return your Lesson Six: Your Kid Will Be Okay. I can pretty much promise this kid to you because she hit someone who stole her soccer ball. You will is true. One afternoon she will bring home an orange card for kissing stage whisper to your kid that it doesn’t matter who started it, etc. You James (who, to be fair, is a swell little boy who deserves kissing). One will feel that you raised your hand to comment in the meeting too often. day, she will bring home an orange card for crawling under the table during spelling because it was a word she already knew. One day, her Lesson Three: School Rocks. You will have debated public vs. private teacher will look tired from dealing with your kid’s questions about the and chosen one. Either way, you’ll be mystified that half the PTO meet- hows and whys of the whole world. But you’ll understand. You’ll have ing was about parents fundraising for money to buy things you figure been there yourself and you’ll know your kid wants to know everything kids should have automatically, like arts and technology. But the teacher – and right now! Kindergarten will represent just one more place your will always be glad to see your kid, who will later come home with kid has to go where she can ask questions from adults who are also in- handouts scrawled all over with crayon entitled “I Am Unique Because,” terested in her growing up to be a good person. And it will be hard to let on which she will have written, in her own handwriting, words she never your kid go and do that, but you will. could write before. She’ll be in the world in a new way, without you there. This will be magical and terrifying, and you won’t know what to expect next.

34 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 angels among us The Children’s Institute Working Toward an Oregon Where Every Child Enters Kindergarten Ready to Succeed

Early childhood education • Remove barriers between is a hot topic in Oregon to- programs and link programs day. Gov. Kitzhaber recently and relationships across unveiled his bold new vision sectors. for early education in Or- We know the achievement egon, calling for: gap starts before kindergarten, and we know that without an • A new kindergarten readi- integrated approach from birth ness assessment and early through third grade we miss learning benchmarks the optimal window for put- • Early identification of at- ting children on a path to suc- risk children and families cess in school and life. Armed with this knowledge, we also • Establishing neighborhood recognize that before we can catchment areas at elemen- operate on a significant scale, tary schools we must first test the effec- • Integrating coordinated tiveness of our prescribed support services for fami- strategies on a smaller stage. lies and children A drawing by an Earl Boyles Elementary School student imagining what the new early childhood facilities at This early learning demon- The Children’s Institute, her school might look like. stration is Oregon’s finest op- a nonprofit organization that portunity to test best practices promotes wise investments and effective action in early childhood to in a local setting and use the results to inform practice and policy deci- prepare children for success in school and life, is advancing the gover- sions at all levels. nor’s plan locally with a bold new initiative, turning the excitement in In addition to this new initiative, the Children’s Institute works in Salem around early childhood education into on-the-ground action in many areas to realize our vision of an Oregon where every child enters the David Douglas School District. kindergarten ready to succeed in school and life. Our goals are to reach Our 10-year early learning demonstration project will be a local children before the academic achievement gap is entrenched, narrow example of how to develop a learning system that intervenes early, the achievement gap and ensure children are on a on a path toward beginning at birth, and carries on through the primary grades with achieving third grade reading and math benchmarks. continuous and coordinated support services for families and children. We have had great success expanding access to proven early child- The project will demonstrate how early learning and whole-child devel- hood programs in Oregon through our Ready for School campaign opment beginning at birth can have a significant impact on success in (ready-for-school.org). To date, our state policy victories include: school and life. • 200 7: $39 million in funding allocated for Oregon Head Start Prekin- Earl Boyles Elementary School in outer southeast Portland will be dergarten (OPK) which serves at-risk 3- and 4-year-olds. This fund- “ground zero” for the demonstration. The Children’s Institute, together ing allows 3,000 children to attend each year. with district and school personnel, will provide leadership and vision. • 2009: OPK funding protected and maintained. Many other organizations will be involved throughout the life of the • 20 10: $1 million in first-time seed funding allocated to Early Head project. Start (EHS). The demonstration will transform Earl Boyles into an early learn- • 20 11: Funding allocated to OPK to allow 600 additional children to ing laboratory where strategies believed to have the greatest impact on attend and funding for EHS protected and maintained. school readiness, third grade proficiency and closure of the achieve- The Children’s Institute has conducted extensive research on many ment gap will be tested. It also will uncover new, emerging practices key components of early learning, including early childhood mental that may better meet the needs of children and families. health, kindergarten readiness, professional development and high- Our goals are ambitious: quality facilities. Our reports on these topics are available on our web- • Narrow the achievement gap by aligning early education with K-5 site at childinst.org/ci-publications. education • Develop new practices that address the developmental needs of chil- To learn more about the project at Earl Boyles Elementary School as dren beginning at birth well as other Children’s Institute initiatives, visit childinst.org or con- • Serve all children within the school’s enrollment boundaries whose tact the Children’s Institute at 503-219-9034. parents want them to be enrolled.

Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 35 family calendar

In the Spotlight Family Favorite

Tears of Joy Theatre kicks off its 2011-12 season with the heartwarming tale of Pinocchio on Nov. 11. The always hilarious Puppetz vs. People – comedy improv contest between TOJT’s puppets and humans from ComedySportz – takes place on Nov. 19.

The World Forestry Center RTESY OF TEARS JOY THEATRE

U hosts Mommy & Me Mondays beginning Mon- PHOTOS CO day, Nov. 7. Enjoy storytime, the RTESY OF WORLD FORESTRY CENTER RTESY OF WORLD FORESTRY

Twofold Joy. Tears of Joy Theatre presents two family-friendly treats museum – and U in November. First up is Pinocchio, the classic tale of a wooden pup- free coffee! pet who wants to be a real boy. After some exciting adventures, little PHOTO CO Pinocchio learns to do what’s right. Age 4+. 7:30 pm Nov. 11, 11 am, Mommy and Me Mondays. The World Forestry Center hosts a cozy 1 pm Nov. 12, 19. 2, 4 pm Nov. 13, 20. Then at 7:30 pm on Nov. 19, it’s reading time for kids with a hot cup of Joe for moms and dads. Free Puppetz vs. People, in a madcap improv bash up, pitting Tears of Joy raffle for fun prizes, too! 10 am every Monday, Nov. 7 through April. puppets against the zany humans from ComedySportz. Age 10+. $20 Sponsored in part by Metro Parent. Free with admission: $8 adults, $5 adults, $17 children, plus service charges. Winningstad Theatre, 1111 ages 3-18, free ages 0-2. 4033 SW Canyon Road. 503-228-1367. world- SW Broadway. 503-248-0557. tojt.com. forestrycenter.org.

36 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 37 family calendar

Need more family fun ideas? You’ll also find MANY, MANY more events – and further details on those listed here – in our online calendar at November Family Calendar Metro-Parent.com. Visit Metro-Parent.com for an expanded calendar

Tuesday, Nov. 1 Raven Steals the Sun. Tears of The Oregon Children’s Joy’s Emily Alexander performs. Newts on the Move. Nature walk, Theatre’s production FREE, tkts 30 minutes prior. 3:30- craft. Ages 3-4 w/grown-up. 10- of Pinkalicious: The Musical continues 4:15 Nov. 3: Belmont LIbrary, 1038 11 am. $8 per child, reservations to entertain families SE 39th Ave. 503-988-5382. 10:30- required. Cooper Mountain Nature through Nov. 20. See Nov. 5 entry. 11:15 am Nov. 5: Central Library, Park, 18892 SW Kemmer Road, 801 SW 10th Ave. 503-988-5123. Beaverton. 503-629-6350. oregon- 3:30-4:15 Nov. 22: Midland Library, metro.gov. 805 SE 122d Ave. 503-988-5392 Story Time at Café Sip-n-Play. (first come/first served). 4-4:45 pm Storytelling, music, ABCs. Ages 0-5. Nov. 30: Hillsdale Library, 1525 10 am Tues. FREE. 3000 SE 164th SW Sunset Blvd. 503-988-5388. Ave., Vancouver. 360-896-4446. multcolib.org. cafesipnplay.com. Viva La Revoloucion! Miracle The- Preschool Play & Skate. Skate atre Group’s colorful, bilingual Day lesson, games, snack. Ages 0-6. of the Dead show. Ages 8+. 7:30 10-11:30 am Tues & Wed. $5.50 per pm Nov. 3, 10. 8 pm Nov. 4, 5, 11, child. Oaks Park, 7805 SE Oaks Park 12. 2 pm Nov. 6, 13. $17-$27, plus Way. 503-233-5777. oakspark.com. charges. 525 SE Stark. 503-236- 7253. milagro.org. Wednesday, Nov. 2 Homeschoolers Globe-Trotting Adventures. Ages 5+. 1:30 Nov. Symphony Storytime. Oregon 3 and 17. FREE. Ledding Library, Symphony musician plays and talks 10660 SE 21st, Milwaukie. 503- about music. 10:30 am Nov. 2, 9, 786-7580. milwaukie.lib.or.us. 16, 30. FREE, tickets 30 min. prior. Central Library, 801 SW 10th Ave. Clever Coyotes. Walk, stories, 503-988-5123. multcolib.org. crafts. Ages 4-6. 1-3 pm. $13, reservations required. Cooper Wondrous Wednesday. $3 admis- Mountain Nature Park, 18892 SW sion to the World Forestry Center Kemmer Rd., Beaverton. 503-629- Discovery Museum every first Wed. 6350. oregonmetro.gov. 10 am-5 pm. 4033 SW Canyon Road. 503-228-1367. worldforest- Ladybug Theater. See Nov. 2. rycenter.org. Honeybee Happenings. Garden Friday, Nov. 4 walk. Ages 1-6 w/grown-up. 10-11 Foiled! Krayon Kids Musical am Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. $2 per Theater Co. presents this “frantic child. Leach Botanical Garden, PHOTO COURTESY OF Owen Carey fairy tale” about villains experienc- 6704 SE 122d Ave. 503-823-1671. ing failure, featuring music, dance leachgarden.org. Ladybug Theater. 10:30 Nov 2, 3, Thursday, Nov. 3 and comedy. Ages 3+. 7 pm Nov. Bliss Storytime. Story and bitty 9, 10: Red Ridinghood with puppets, Japanese Sing and Play. Fun for 4, 5, 11, 12, 18. 19. 2 pm Nov. 5, cupcake. Ages 0-5. 10:30 am. FREE. starring Baby Bear. Nov. 16, 17, ages 0-4. 9-9:30 am Nov. 3, 10. 17. 6, 12, 13, 19, 20. $15 adults, $10 Bliss Bake Shop, 4708 NW Bethany 23 (no 24) 30, Dec. 1: The Ginger- FREE. The International School, kids. Barclay Theatre, 817 12th St., Blvd. 503-645-6000. blisscupcake- bread Man. Ages 2 1/2+. $4, babes 122 SW Arthur St. 503-265-8855. Oregon City. 503-656-6099. Kray- shop.com. in arms free, reservations. Smile intlschool.org. onKids.org. Station, 8210 SE 13th St. 503-232- Chinese Storytime. Ages 0-5. 10 Willy Wonka: The Musical. 2346. ladybugtheater.org. First Thursday. Lan Su Chinese Based am. FREE. Cafe Sip-n-Play, 3000 SE Garden is free 6-8 pm. 239 NW on Charlie and the Chocolate Fac- 164th Ave., Vancouver. 360-896- Preschool Play & Skate. See Everett St. 503-228-8131. lansug- tory; presented by Christian Youth 4446. cafesipnplay.com. Nov. 1. arden.org. Theatre. 7 pm Nov. 4, 5, 11, 12. 2 pm Nov. 6, 13. $14 adult, $11 ages

38 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Metro Parent believes all calen- dar information to be correct as of the date of publication; however, you may want to call to confirm events as scheduling November Family Calendar and other changes may occur. Visit Metro-Parent.com for an expanded calendar

2-18. Fort Vancouver High School, Saturday, Nov. 5 5700 E 18th St, Vancouver. 360- Pinkalicious: The Musical. 750-8550. cytvanport.org. Oregon Children’s Theatre presents dancing White Christmas. Based on the cupcakes and pink, pink fun based. classic movie. Ages 7+. 7:30 pm All ages. 2, 5 pm Nov. 5, 6, 12, 13, Thurs, Fri, Sat thru Dec. 18. 2 pm 19, 20. $17.50-$36.50, plus service Nov. 13, 27, Dec. 4, 11, 18. 7 pm charges. Newmark Theatre, 1111 Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27, Dec. 11. $20- SW Broadway. 503-228-9571. octc. $32. Lakewood Center for the Arts, org. 368 S State St. Lake Oswego. 503- 635-3901. lakewood-center.org. Columbia Gorge Model Railroad Show. Amazing model railroad Movie Night at Café Sip-n-Play. 5 displays. 10 am-5 pm Nov. 5, 6, 12, pm Nov. 4, 5: Dumbo. Nov. 11, 12: 13, 19, 20, 26, 27. $6 adults, $2 Lion King 1 1/2. Nov. 18, 19: Babe: ages 3-11. Columbia Gorge Model Pig in the City. Nov. 25, 26: You’re RR Club, 2505 N Vancouver Ave. a Good Man, Charlie Brown. FREE. 503-288-7246. cgmrc.com. 3000 SE 164th Ave., Vancouver. 360-896-4446. cafesipnplay.com. Newt Day. Autumn in nature with family activities. Noon-4 pm. $2, or Multnomah Arts Center Open 2 cans food. Tualatin Hills Nature House. Enjoy performances, art Park, 15655 SW Millikan Wy, Bea- demos, hands-on activities and verton. 503-629-6350. thprd.org. more. 5-8:30 pm. FREE. 7688 SW Capitol Hwy. 503-823-2787. Mult- Vancouver Veterans Parade. nomahArtsCenter.org. Bands, military units, community groups, more. 11 am. FREE. New Oliver. Christian Youth Theatre per- route along Evergreen Blvd, E 5th forms. 7 pm Nov. 4. 2, 6 pm Nov. St. 360-992-1804. cityofvancouver. 5. $14 adult, $11 ages 2-18. New us. Hope Center, 11731 SE Stevens Rd., Happy Valley. 360-750-8550. Adventures with Bugs. Join the cytvanport.org. Bug Chicks to learn about and touch cool, creepy crawlers. FREE. Target FREE First Friday. FREE 2-3:30 pm Nov. 5: Albina Library, from 4 -8 pm. Portland Children’s 3605 NE 15th Ave. 503-988-5362. Museum, 4015 SW Canyon Road. 3:30-5 pm Nov. 10: Belmont LI- 503-223-6500. portlandcm.org. brary, 1038 SE 39th Ave. 503-988- Story and Stroll. Storytime and 5382. 2-3:30 pm Nov. 12: Gregory nature walk. Ages 2-6 w/grown-up. Heights Library, 7921 NE Sandy 1-2 pm Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25. FREE, Blvd. 503-988-5386. 3-4:40 pm pre-registration required. Tryon Nov. 26: Kenton Library, 8226 N Creek State Park, 11321 SW Terwil- never Ave. 503-988-5370. multco- liger Blvd. 503-636-9886 xt. 225. lib.org. tryonfriends.org. Lantern Tour. See nighttime Ft. Ladybug Nature Walks. Last Vancouver. Ages 10+. 7-8:30 pm naturalist-led stroll of the season. Nov. 5, 19. $10 adults, $7 youth, Ages 2-5. 10-11 am Hoyt Arbore- reservations required. 1001 E 5th tum. $3 per preschooler. 503-823- St. 360-816-6230. nps.gov/fova. 3601. portlandparks.org. Coffee Fair. Learn coffee basics and Viva La Revoloucion! See Nov. 3. enjoy tastings. 10 am to 3 pm Nov. 5 and 6. $8 adults, $5 children. 503-228-1367. worldforestry.org.

Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 39 family calendar

Guided Nature Walk. Explore Exploring the Stage. Different art Tryon Creek park. All ages, grown- forms. 11 am, noon Nov. 6: classical up must be w/kids. 10-11:30 am Indian Dance. 11 am, noon Nov. Nov. 5, 12, 19. FREE. 11321 SW 13: Rick Huddle storyteller. Free Terwilliger Blvd. 503-636-4398. w/admission: $9 ages 1 and up. tryonfriends.org. Portland Children’s Museum, 4015 SW Canyon Road. 503-223-6500. Tabor Farmers Market. Year round portlandcm.org. farmer’s market, plus kid-friendly music, crafts. 10 am-2 pm every Viva La Revoloucion! See Nov. 3. Sat. FREE. Cafe Au Play, 5633 SE Willy Wonka: The Musical. See Division St. 503-894-8506. cafeau- Nov. 4. play.org. Coffee Fair. See Nov. 5. Autumn Birds. Join naturalist for Smith and Bybee Wetlands Pinkalicious: The Musical. See walk. Ages 10+. 9:30 am-noon. Nov. 5. FREE, reservations required. 5300 Foiled! See Nov. 4. N Marine Dr. 503-797-1650 xt 2. Model Railroad Show. See Nov. 5. oregonmetro.gov. White Christmas. See Nov. 4. Viva La Revoloucion! See Nov. 3. Oliver. See Nov. 4. Monday, Nov. 7 Willy Wonka: The Musical. See Nov. 4. Momtopia. Sing-a-long for kids 0-6 and treats for parents. 10-11 Raven Steals the Sun. See Nov. 3. am. FREE. 1st Level by Legacy Fun- Movie Night at Café Sip-n-Play. land, Lloyd Center Mall, 2201 Lloyd See Nov. 4. Center. 503-282-2511. lloydcenter. com. Foiled! See Nov. 4. White Christmas. See Nov. 4. Tuesday, Nov. 8 Bear Hugs. Bring your teddy; enjoy Sunday, Nov. 6 stories, craft, walk. Ages 3-4 w/ Open Jam. Country-folk jam, join grown-up. 10-11 am. $8, reserva- the fun. 1 pm. FREE. Tillamook tions required. Cooper Mountain Forest Center, 45500 Wilson River Nature Park, 18892 SW Kemmer Enjoy autumn’s splendor at the Hwy., Tillamook 503-815-6800. til- Rd, Beaverton. 503-629-6350. Japanese Garden for free on Nov. 11. lamookforestcenter.org. oregonmetro.gov. PHOTO BY DAVID M. COBB PHOTO BY DAVID Milagros Crafty Mamas Holiday Terrific Tuesday. 6:30 pm Nov. 8: Bazaar. Crafty gifts, art activities Author Mark Fearing reads, draw Wednesday, Nov. 9 Preschool Play & Skate. See Nov. 1. for kids, more. Fundraiser for Mercy aliens. Nov. 22: Penny’s Puppets. Diary of a Wimpy Kid and You. Symphony Storytime. See Nov. 2. Corps. 10:30 am-3 pm. FREE. Mila- FREE. West Linn Library, 1595 gros Boutique, 5433 NE 30th Ave. Burns St. 503-656-7853. westlin- Book chat and crafts. FREE. 4 pm- Honeybee Happenings. See Nov. 2. 503-493-4141. milagrosboutique. noregon.gov/library. 5:30 pm Nov. 9: Rockwood Library, 17917 SE Stark St. 503-988-5396. Bliss Storytime. See Nov. 2. com. $4 Zoo Tuesday. Visit the Oregon 4 pm Nov. 11: Fairview-Columbia Ladybug Theater. See Nov. 2. Salmon Festival @ Multnomah Zoo for $4 per person. 9 am-4 pm. Library, 1520 NE Village St. 503- Falls. 10 am-4 pm. FREE. Visitor 4001 SW Canyon Road. 503-226- 988-5655. multcolib.org. Center, 5000 Historic Columbia 1561. oregonzoo.org. Thursday, Nov. 10 Yoga and Stories. River Hwy, Bridal Veil. 503-491- Story and poses. Jefferson High School Multicul- Best ages 2-5. 10:15-10:45 am. Portland Christmas Tree Arrival. 7321. oregonmetro.gov. tural Film Festival. Watch “Digital FREE. Hillsdale Library, 1525 SW The big tree arrives on a big truck, Nation.” Teens. 5-7:45 pm. FREE; OMSI $2 Day. Explore OMSI for $2 Sunset Blvd. 503-988-5388. mult- music. Noon-1 pm. FREE. Pioneer first-come, first-served basis. North every first Sun. 9:30 am-5:30 pm. colib.org. Courthouse Square, 701 SW 6th Portland Library, 512 N Killing- Parking $2. 1945 SE Water Ave. Ave. 503-223-1613. pioneercourt- sworth St. 503-988-5394. multco- Future Vet. Meet real vets, get pet 503-797-4000. omsi.edu. housesquare.org. lib.org. care tips. Ages 0-10. 10-10:30 am. National College Fair. Reps from Free w/admission: $9 ages 1 and Music Together Free Demonstra- dozens of colleges nationwide. Preschool Play & Skate. See Nov. 1. up. Portland Children’s Museum, tion Class. Try fun demo classes. 1-5 pm. FREE. Oregon Convention Story Time at Café Sip-n-Play. See 4015 SW Canyon Road. 503-223- Ages 0-5. FREE. Nov. 10: SW. Nov. Center, 777 NE MLK Blvd. 503-235- Nov. 1. 6500. portlandcm.org. 17: SE/Sellwood. Nov. 28: NE. De- 7575. nacacnet.org.

40 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 41 family calendar

tails on reservation: 503-236-4304. 9:45 am. FREE. From 40th Hancock Saturday, Nov. 12 Gresham Library, 385 NW Miller musictogether-pdx.com. to 48th Sandy. veteransdaypdx.org. Ave. 503-988-5387. 10:30-11:15 Junior Gardener Club. Make am Nov. 19: Albina Library, 3605 Viva La Revoloucion! See Nov. 3. Family Friday Music. White Rhino garden-inspired art. Ages 5-10 w/ NE 15th Ave. 503-988-5362. mult- Marimba performs. 7:15-8:30 pm. adult. 10 am. $5 per child, plus Adventures with Bugs. See Nov. 5. colib.org. $5 person, $15 family donation. admission. Oregon Garden, 879 W Japanese Sing and Play. See Nov. Community Music Center, 3350 SE Main St., Silverton. 503-874-8100. Family Dance. Cut a rug, Caroline 3. Francis St. 503-823-3177. commu- oregongarden.org/juniorgardener. Oakley calls. 4:30-6:30 pm. $6 adults, $5 kids, $20 max family. nitymusiccenter.org. Tree-Mendous 2nd Saturdays. Ladybug Theater. See Nov. 2. Fulton Community Center, 68 SW FREE Days at Ft. Vancouver. See Hikes, story time, crafts, more. 11 White Christmas. See Nov. 4. Miles St. 503-775-6537. portland- the fort for free. 9 am-5 pm Nov. am-3 pm. Free w/admission: $8 countrydance.org. 11, 12, 13. 1001 E 5th St. 360-816- adults, $5 ages 3-18, free ages 0-2. Friday, Nov. 11 6230. nps.gov/fova. World Forestry Center, 4033 SW Professor Banjo. Kiddo sing-a- Canyon Rd. 503-228-1367. world- longs. 3 pm. $7 adults, $5 kids, Viva La Revoloucion! See Nov. 3. FREE Japanese Garden Day. 10 am forestry.org. free ages 0-2. Taborspace, 5441 SE -4 pm. 611 SW Kingston Ave. 503- Willy Wonka: The Musical. See Belmont. 503-238-3904. square- Fall Concert. Portland Youth 223-1321. japanesegarden.com. Nov. 4. dancepaul.com. Philharmonic performs. 7:30 pm. Arr! Rick Huddle performs pirate-ly. Pinocchio. See In the Spotlight. $11-$40, plus charges. Schnitzer Aaron Nigel Smith. Between the 1-2 pm. FREE. St. Johns LIbrary, Lions star shares music and move- Diary of a Wimpy Kid and You. Concert Hall, 1037 SW Broadway. 7510 N Charleston Ave. 503-988- ment. 11 am. FREE. Lake Oswego See Nov. 9. 503-223-5939. portlandyouthphil. 5397. multcolib.org. org. Library, 706 4th St. 503-697-6580. Story and Stroll. See Nov. 4. ci.oswego.or.us. Zoo Veterans Day. FREE admis- Second Saturday. Crafts, activities sion for active duty or military Movie Night at Café Sip-n-Play. celebrating American Indian Heri- Little Kids’ Jamboree. Kiddy music vets. 9 am-4 pm. Oregon Zoo, 4001 See Nov. 4. tage Month. Ages 3-12. 1-3 pm. with Lorna Miller. Ages 0-7. 4-5 SW Canyon Road. 503-226-1561. Foiled! See Nov. 4. FREE. Water Resources Education pm. $5 per family. Mississippi oregonzoo.org. Center, 4600 SE Columbia Way. Pizza, 3552 N Mississippi Ave. 503- White Christmas. See Nov. 4. Hollywood Veterans Day Parade. 360-487-7111. cityofvancouver.us/ 288-3231. littlekidsjamboree.com. watercenter. Viva La Revoloucion! See Nov. 3. Tumble Bee. Laura Veirs children’s Willy Wonka: The Musical. See CD release concert. Ages 2+. 4 pm. Nov. 4. FREE. Music Millenium, 3158 E Burnside. 503-231-8926. lauraveirs. Pinkalicious: The Musical. See com. Nov. 5. Safety Saturday. Learn about Pinocchio. See In the Spotlight. safety, tour the Historic Belmont Guided Nature Walk. See Nov. 5. Firehouse. 10 am-3 pm. FREE. 900 SE 35th Ave. 503-823-3615. Movie Night at Café Sip-n-Play. jeffmorrisfoundation.org. See Nov. 4. Family Day. Printmaking activ- Foiled! See Nov. 4. ity, clothespin dolls. 10 am-2 pm. Adventures with Bugs. FREE. Washington County Museum, See Nov. 5. 17677 NW Springville Rd. 503-645- Model Railroad Show. See Nov. 5. 5353. washingtoncountymuseum. Ft. Vancouver Free Days. See org. Nov. 11. Polar Express. Meet Santa; enjoy story, caroling, treats. 11:30 am, Tabor Farmers Market. See Nov. 5. 2 pm, 4:30 pm, 7 pm Nov. 12, 13, White Christmas. See Nov. 4. 19, 20, 23, 25, 26, 27, 30 and Dec. dates. $18-$46. Mt. Hood Railroad, 110 Railroad Ave., Hood River. 800- Sunday Nov. 13 872-4661. mthoodrr.com. Prelude Concert. Portland Youth Fall Arts and Crafts. Ages 5+. 2 Philharmonic groups perform. 4 pm Nov. 12 and 26. FREE. Ledding pm. $12 adults, $10 students. Cen- Library, 10660 SE 21st, Milwaukie. tury High School, 2000 SE Century 503-786-7580. milwaukie.lib.or.us. Blvd, Hillsboro. 503-223-5939. portlandyouthphil.org. PHOTO COURTESY OF PIONEER COURTHOUSE SQUARE Pasta Fazool. Storyteller Anne- Louise Sterry gets her New Jersey Oregon’s Leading Woman. Actress Many families have made attending the lighting of the Holiday Tree in Pioneer Courthouse Square an annual tradition. See Nov. 25. on. FREE. 2:30-3:15 pm Nov. 12: portrays Oregon suffragette Abigail

42 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 43 family calendar

Scott Duniway. Grades 5+. 2-2:45 pm. FREE. Woodstock Library, 6008 SE 49th Ave. 503-988-5399. multcolib.org. Circle on the Court. Sports clinic for ages 8-18, diabetes health and wellness fair. 11 am-4 pm. FREE. Rose Garden, One Center Court. 503-626-4007. chrisdudley.org. Viva La Revoloucion! See Nov. 3. Willy Wonka: The Musical. See Nov. 4. Pinkalicious: The Musical. See Nov. 5. Pinocchio. See In the Spotlight. Polar Express. See Nov. 12. The holiday season officially Foiled! See Nov. 4. begins with Macy’s Thanksgiv- ing Parade (which actually takes RTESY OF MACY’S Explore the Stage. See Nov. 6. place the day after Thanksgiv- U ing!). See Nov. 25.

Model Railroad Show. See Nov. 5. PHOTO CO Ft. Vancouver Free Days. See Nov. 11. Preschool Play & Skate. See 3 pm. (Show runs Nov. 14-23 dur- Friday Fun Night. See Nov. 4. Nov. 1. ing library hours). FREE. Beaverton White Christmas. See Nov. 4. Foiled! See Nov. 4. Story Time at Café Sip-n-Play. See Library, 12375 SW 5th St. 503-350- Music with Mr. Hoo. See Nov. 4. Nov. 1. 3610. beavertonlibrary.org. Monday, Nov. 14 Japanese Sing and Play. See White Christmas. See Nov. 4. Noontime Showcase. Readers The- Wednesday, Nov. 16 Nov. 3. atre presents Chekhov’s A Marriage Homeschoolers Globe-Trotting Saturday, Nov. 19 Make Your Mark. Create a rubber Proposal. Older elementary. Noon-1 Adventures. See Nov. 3. pm. FREE. PCPA, 1111 SW Broad- stamp. Grades 6+. 4-6 pm. FREE. Tapestry of Tales ‘Tellabration.’ way. 503-248-4335. pcpa.com. Midland Library, 805 SE 122d Ave. Music Together Free Demonstra- Multnomah County Library’s annu- 503-988-5392. multcolib.org. tion Class. See Nov. 10. al storytelling festival hosts several FREE family-friendly storytelling Tuesday, Nov. 15 Cavalia. An equestrian show from a Ladybug Theater. See Nov. 2. Cirque du Soleil creator. See website events, culminating in this event at White Christmas. See Nov. 4. Raven Steals the Sun. Tears of Joy for dates/times. $24.50-$189.50, First Unitarian Church (ages 10 and puppets perform Native American plus charges. Tent in the Pearl Dis- up). See website for details. 503- tale. 7-8 pm. FREE. Tigard Public trict. 866-999-8111. cavalia.net. Friday, Nov. 18 988-5402. multcolib.org. Library, 13500 SW Hall Blvd. 503- Fairy Tale Festival. Crafts @ LO. See Nov. 15. The Hullabaloo! Dragon Art 684-6537. wccls.org. This year’s show is Frankenstein, The Little Monster Theatre story time 11 am, puppet Preschool Play & Skate. See shows 10:30 am, 1 pm. Crafts 9:30- Crafts @ Lake Oswego Library. Nov. 1. with songs, jokes, dancing. 7 pm Make a paper plate turkey. Ages Fri, 2, 4 pm Sat/Sun Nov. 18-Dec. noon, 1:30-3:30 pm. Nov. 19, 20. 3-5. 11 am Nov. 15, 16. FREE, Symphony Storytime. See Nov. 2. 18. FREE. Theatre! Theatre! 3430 Free w/admission: $9 ages 1 and up, small fee for some crafts. reservations required. 706 4th St. Honeybee Happenings. See SE Belmont St. jane-a-theater- Portland Children’s Museum, 4015 503-697-6580. ci.oswego.or.us. Nov. 2. company.org. SW Canyon Road. 503-223-6500. Tall Trees. Stories, craft, walk. Ages Bliss Storytime. See Nov. 2. The Jungle Book. A musical ver- portlandcm.org. 3-4 w/grown-up. $8, reservations sion of Rudyard Kipling’s classic Ladybug Theater. See Nov. 2. Parents’ Survival Night. required. Cooper Mountain Nature from the Christian Youth Theater. Kids have Park, 18892 SW Kemmer Rd, 7 pm Nov. 18, 3, 7 pm Nov. 19. fun with fitness, crafts, snack, while Beaverton. 503-629-6350. oregon- Thursday, Nov. 17 2, 6 pm Nov. 20. $14 adults, $11 parents get some “me” time. Ages metro.gov. ages 2-18. Venetian Theater, 253 E 3-12. 6-9:30 pm. Call for pricing, Penny at Café Sip-n-Play. Enjoy a Main St., Hillsboro. 360-750-8550. directions. The Little Gym, Lake Piano Pixies. FREE into class. puppet show. 10 am. Free w/paid cytvanport.org. Oswego. 503-595-9702. tlglakeo- Ages 3-5. 1 pm, rsvp: info@ admission to play area. 3000 SE swegoor.com MusicWerksStudio.com. Milagros 164th Ave., Vancouver. 360-896- Story and Stroll. See Nov. 4. Boutique, 5433 NE 30th Ave. 503- OHS Family Day. Treasure hunt, 4446. cafesipnplay.com. Movie Night at Café Sip-n-Play. 493-4141. milagrosboutique.com. stories. 11 am-3 pm. Two kids free Teen Art Show. Opening reception. See Nov. 4. w/adult admission, Multnomah Cty

44 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 residents always FREE. Oregon His- Lantern Tour. See Nov. 5. torical Society, 1200 SW Park Ave. Tabor Farmers Market. See Nov. 5. 503-306-5198. ohs.org/index.cfm. White Christmas. See Nov. 4. Family Day at Washington County Museum. Enjoy art activi- ties. Ages 4-12. 10 am-2 pm. FREE. Sunday, Nov. 20 Beaverton Library, 12375 SW 5th Thanksgiving Walk at Oxbow St. 503-645-5353. washington- Park. Stroll, hear Iroquois Thanks- countymuseum.org. giving Address. 10:30-12:30. $5 Pinkalicious: The Musical. See parking fee, advance registration Nov. 5. required. 3010 SE Oxbow Pkwy, Pinocchio. See In the Spotlight. Gresham. 503-797-1650 xt. 2. oregonmetro.gov. Puppetz vs. People. See In the Spotlight. Kids In Nature: Fall Frenzy. What do the animals do to prepare for Pasta Fazool. See Nov. 12. winter. Ages 3-7 w/grown-up. Guided Nature Walk. See Nov. 5. 10-11:30 am. $10 per child. Tryon Creek State Park, 11321 SW Terwil- Polar Express. See Nov. 12. liger Blvd. 503-636-9886 xt. 225. The Hullabaloo! See Nov. 18. tryonfriends.org. Movie Night at Café Sip-n-Play. The Jungle Book. See Nov. 18. See Nov. 4. Pinkalicious: The Musical. See Jungle Book. See Nov. 18. Nov. 5. Foiled! See Nov. 4. Pinocchio. See In the Spotlight. Model Railroad Show. See Nov. 5. Polar Express. See Nov. 12.

Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 45 family calendar

The Hullabaloo! See Nov. 18. am for ages 0-11. $8-$23, $50 fam- Midsummer Night’s Dream. Noon, 4 pm Nov. 27. Runs through Foiled! See Nov. 4. ily, includes Zoo admission. Oregon Portland Ballet performs world Jan 1. $32 adults, $20 ages 0-12. Zoo, 4001 SW Canyon Road. 503- premiere. Best ages 3+. The Echo Theatre, 1515 SE 37th. Fairy Tale Festival. See Nov. 19. 667-0480. oregonzoo.org. 2:30, 7:30 pm Nov. 25, 503-231-1232. dojump.org. 1, 4 pm Nov. 26, 27. Model Railroad Show. See Nov. 5. Wreath Making. Create a wreath. $15-$35, plus surcharge. Friday, Nov. 25 All ages. 11 am-3 pm Nov. 26, White Christmas. See Nov. 4. Lincoln Hall, 1620 SW 27. Cost of materials $10+, plus Portland Tree Lighting. Park. 503-452-8448. admission: $8 adults, $5 ages 3-18. Pink Martini, Santa, theportlandballet. Monday, Nov. 21 World Forestry Center, 4033 SW more. 5:30 pm. org. Canyon Rd. 503-228-1367. world- Movie Matinee. Mr. Popper’s FREE. Pioneer Penguins. 2-4 pm. FREE. Tualatin Grotto’s Festi- forestry.org. Courthouse val of Lights. Public Library, 18878 SW Martin- Square, 701 SW Ebenezer Ever After. See Nov. 25. azzi Ave. 503-691-3074. tualatinli- Millions of 6th Ave. 503- lights, 170 mu- Beast Feast. See Nov. 24. brary.org. 223-1613. sic concerts, pup- Fall Arts and Crafts. See Nov. 12. pioneer- pet shows, petting zoo, Tuesday, Nov. 22 courthous- more. 5-9:30 pm. $8, $4 Polar Express. See Nov. 12. esquare. ages 3-12, free ages 0-2. Sing and Dance Party. Musical org. The Hullabaloo! See Nov. 18. chairs, video game dancing. 2-4 Canned food donations Movie Night at Café Sip-n-Play. pm. FREE. Tigard Public Library, encouraged. NE 85th/ Roald Dahl’s Sandy Blvd. 503-261- See Nov. 4. 13500 SW Hall Blvd. 503-684- Charlie and 6537. wccls.org. the Chocolate 2400. thegrotto.org. Adventures with Bugs. See Nov. 5. Factory comes to life Preschool Play & Skate. See in Christian Youth Vancouver Community Vancouver Festival of Trees. See Nov. 1. Theatre’s Willy Wonka Tree LIghting. Music Nov. 25. beginning Nov. 4. 5:30 pm, lighting and Raven Steals the Sun. See Nov. 3. Santa arrival 6 pm. FREE. Midsummer Night’s Dream. See Nov. 24. Terrific Tuesday. See Nov. 8. Zoolights Opens. Esther Short Park, 301 W 1 million+ twin- 8th St. 360-487-8000. ro- Model Railroad Show. Story Time at Café Sip-n-Play. See Nov. 5. See kling lights. 5-8 taryfestivaloftrees.org. Nov. 1. pm Sun-Thurs, Fri/ Grotto’s Festival of Lights. See Sat until 8:30 pm Vancouver Festival Nov. 26. of Trees. Beautiful Wednesday, Nov. 23 Nov. 25-Jan. 1. $10.75 Tabor Farmers Market. See Nov. 5. adults, $7.75 ages 3-11, decorated trees, A Very Merry PDX-mas. Broadway free ages 0-2, includes PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRISTIAN CHILDREN’S THEATRE entertainment, White Christmas. See Nov. 4. more. Noon-9 pm Rose Theatre Company performs. train ride. Oregon Zoo, 4001 A Very Merry PDX-mas. See Nov. 25, 10 am-5 pm Nov 26, 10 Ages 8+ (kids under 6 not admit- SW Canyon Road. 503-667-0480. Nov. 23. ted). 7:30 pm Nov. 23, 25, 26. 2 oregonzoo.org. am-4 pm Nov. 27. FREE, non- pm Nov. 27. $20-$35. New Stage, perishable food donations please. 12850 SW Grant Ave., Tigard. 503- Macy’s Holiday Parade/Santaland. Pearson Air Museum, 1115 E 5th St. Sunday, Nov. 27 620-5262. broadwayrose.org. Floats, bands, and Santa. 9 am. rotaryfestivaloftrees.org. Downtown along Broadway and Hot Buttered Run. Kandy Kane Polar Express. See Nov. 12. Fourth. After the parade, Santa Story and Stroll. See Nov. 4. 1K race 1K. 11:30 am. $5 ages 8-12, free ages 3-7. Other races for Preschool Play & Skate. See opens Macy’s Santaland at 11 am Beast Feast. See Nov. 24. on Level A at Downtown Macy’s. grown-ups. Music and fun after Nov. 1. Polar Express. See Nov. 12. FREE, photo packages for a fee. race. Pearson Air Museum, 1115 E Honeybee Happenings. See Monorail on display. 621 SW 5th The Hullabaloo! See Nov. 18. 5th St. energyevents.com/hotbut- Nov. 2. teredrun. Ave. Movie Night at Café Sip-n-Play. Bliss Storytime. Jewish Theatre Collaborative. See Nov. 2. Ebenezer Ever After. Stumptown See Nov. 4. Ladybug Theater. See Nov. 2. Stages presents an update to A Naftali, Story Voyager on the Yid- Midsummer Night’s Dream. See Christmas Carol. Ages 7+. 7:30 pm dish Seas. Ages 5+. 10:30 am, 4 Nov. 24. pm. $5-$10. Miracle Theatre, 525 Thursday, Nov. 24 Nov. 25, 26, Dec. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23. 2 pm Dec. 18, 24. $14.25- White Christmas. See Nov. 4. SE Stark. 503-512-0582. jewishthe- Beast Feast. atrecollaborative.org. Animals get Thanks- $34.25, plus charges. Brunish Hall, A Very Merry PDX-mas. See giving treats. 11:30 am-2:30 pm 1111 SW Broadway. 503-381-8686. Nov. 23. Beast Feast. See Nov. 24. Nov. 24, 25, 26, 27. Free w/admis- pcpa.com/event. Polar Express. See Nov. 12. sion: $10.50 adults, $7.50 kids The Mitten. Penny’s Puppets per- 3-11, free 0-2. Oregon Zoo, 4001 Saturday, Nov. 26 The Hullabaloo! See Nov. 18. form. 10 am. $5 person, $17 for 4 SW Canyon Road. 503-226-1561. guests, free ages 0-1. Off Broadway, Do Jump! Ahhh, HA! Greatest Vancouver Festival of Trees. See oregonzoo.org. Central Lutheran Church, 1820 NE hits from this physical theater/ Nov. 25. Turkey Trot. Family-friendly run/ dance troupe, featuring live music 21st Ave. 503-282-9207. penny- Do Jump! See Nov. 26. walk. 8 am+. Half-mile tot trot 9:45 puppets.com. by Klezmocracy. 7:30 pm Nov. 26.

46 Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 Parties

Midsummer Night’s Dream. See Grotto’s Festival of Lights. See Nov. 24. Nov. 26. Wreath Making. See Nov. 26. Wednesday, Nov. 30. Model Railroad Show. See Nov. 5. Everything You Wanted to Know Grotto’s Festival of Lights. See About College (but Never Asked). Nov. 26. Grades 6 and up. 6:30-7:30 pm. White Christmas. See Nov. 4. FREE; first-come, first-served A Very Merry PDX-mas. See basis. Sellwood-Moreland Library Nov. 23. Address: 7860 S.E. 13th Ave. 503.988.5398. multcolib.org.

Monday, Nov. 28 Honeybee Happenings. See Nov. 2. Music Together Free Demonstra- Preschool Play & Skate. See Nov. tion Class. See Nov. 10. 1. Grotto’s Festival of Lights. See Symphony Storytime. See Nov. 2. Nov. 26. Raven Steals the Sun. See Nov. 3. Tuesday, Nov. 29 Polar Express. See Nov. 12. Preschool Play & Skate. See Grotto’s Festival of Lights. See Nov. 1. Nov. 26. Story Time at Café Sip-n-Play. See Bliss Storytime. See Nov. 2. Nov. 1. Ladybug Theater. See Nov. 2.

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Metro Parent • metro-parent.com • November 2011 47