nw kids magazine

nwkidsmagazine.com | january 2012

Music schools | NW KiNdie RecoRd RevieWsAN iNteRvieW With Mo PhilliPs | oPeN house Guide

2 | NW Kids Magazine

NW Kids Magazine | 3NW Kids Magazine | 3


ON THE COVER aNd abOVE: Photos courtesy of She Saw Things:

photography by Jen downer.She Saw Things celebrates

the person | the family | the momentwith authentic, timeless lifestyle portraiture.

See more of Jen’s work at shesawthings.com

Publisher / advertising DirectorMichelle [email protected]

Editorialbeth [email protected]

Kelley [email protected]

account ManagerLaurel [email protected]

Client Services Coordinator / Client ad DesignKarel [email protected]

advertising Inquiries:503-282-2711, ext. [email protected]

DesignRobyn [email protected]

accounting & Business ServicesHeather [email protected]

Staff PhotographerEmma Easley [email protected]

Connect With us:• Phone:503.282.2711• email:[email protected]• Facebook:facebook.com/nwkids• Twitter:@nwkids

NW Kids is published monthly by Miche Media, LLC. Every effort is made to ensure accuracy; sometimes we make

errors. Please let us know when we do and accept our apologies.Printed locally; Please recycle.

CORRECTiON:in our holiday gift guide last month

we neglected to list Naturally Playful’s website, naturallyplayful.net.

contents

26

20

24

schools

outings

music

goods

INSIDE:

8 Northwest Kindie Record Reviews

24 Making Musicians: Portland Music Schools

26 dad Rock? Nope, a dad Who Rocks

20 Found around Town: Join The band

10 Open House Guide

22 Finding a Whole-Family Fit

28 Calendar of Events

nwkidsmagazine.com

Music Lessons: How Hard do i Push? by Sound Roots

Green bean books: best books to Snuggle Up with on a Cold Winter Night

Childcare or Preschool? Oregon’s initiative to improve Early Childhood Programs

Mr. ben’s american Made Ukes

Music around Town: a Resource Guide

Tips For Parents on Preschool Options

onlinethis month


Happy New Year from NW Kids! 2011 brought some major changes for our publication, and it was an incredibly rewarding year for the magazine and for all of us. And now that it’s on the books, we’re all ready to dive in, head first to

2012. We’re not so much about making resolutions, but more about starting fresh and improving on what we already work so hard to attain, so look for more of the same great resources you’ve always found in NW Kids, and also look for some improvements to the magazine and our website with more, more, more resources and information on ways to have fun with your families.

This month we’re focusing on school open houses and have included an Open House Guide with tools to help you find the right schools for your families. We also feature an article by Scoop on Schools on how to find a whole-family fit when considering your children’s education, and how to figure out amongst the moderately confusing sea of information on Portland schools. We’ve also compiled some great information on Kindie music in Portland including an interview with our favorite Dad rocker, Mo Phillips, a piece on local music schools, and where to find great products to get your kiddo started with their own band in our Found Around Town section.

As always, our intention is to provide families with information on what’s fun to do in Portland, but we will also continue to focus on local businesses, activities, artists, schools and more to create a cohesive editorial resource for you, our readers. As we gear up for another awesome year, we want to hear from you along the way. Please feel free to contact us with feedback, questions or editorial ideas at [email protected], and while you’re at it, don’t forget to “like” us on facebook. Here’s to a great 2012, friends.

— Kelley and Beth

editoR’s CORNER

listingsA Mother’s Love ...........................................33Ainsworth School ........................................23All Saints School ..........................................11Amanda Arp .................................................35Aprende con Amigos ...................................11Barre3 .............................................................2Bennett Suzuki Violin Studio .......................29Bodhi Tree Center .........................................19Burlingame Preschool ..................................23Child’s View Montessori ...............................21Clever Cycle ....................................................2Earthquake Tech .............................................7EcoMaids ........................................................7Escuela Viva ..................................................21Foster Burger ................................................35French American International School ........21Fun Party Co. ................................................35German American School ............................21Growing Seeds .............................................11Hi 5 Dental .....................................................7Hope Chinese Charter School ......................27International Leadership Academy ...............9Kids’ Backyard Store .....................................36Little Fruit Farm Montessori .........................19Living School................................................25Marylhurst Early Childhood Center ...............9Meringue Boutique ......................................32Merry Kitchen ................................................7My Kidz World ..............................................34My Masterpiece Art Studio ..........................32N. Clackamas Aquatic Park ..........................32Nit Nanny .....................................................34Northwest Chinese Academy ......................23ORCAS ..........................................................34Oregon Children’s Theatre ..............................3Oregon Episcopal School ...............................9Oregon Hope Chinese School ......................21Park Academy ..............................................25Peanut Gallery Preschool .............................23Petit Pois Daycare .........................................23Pfeifer MusicWerks ......................................29Play Boutique ...............................................34Portland Children’s Museum .........................3Portland Language Arts...............................19Portland School of Experiential Education ..27Portland Trampolines ...................................36Portland Youth Ballet ...................................29Scuola Italiana di Portland...........................19Sitter Soiree ..................................................35Sound Roots School of Music ......................29Spielwerk Toys ..............................................33St. Cecilia School ..........................................25Sun Garden Montessori ...............................27Sunset Preschool ..........................................27Sweet Preas Kidzone ....................................27Take Shape for Life .......................................33Tears of Joy Theatre ......................................32Trillium Preschool.........................................21Willow Tree Preschool ..................................11Winter Family Funfest ..................................35World of Smiles ..............................................7

music

Northwest Kindie (Kids+Indie)Record Reviews

Lori Henriques: “outside My door”

Lori Henriques is getting lots of atten-tion with her brilliant debut “Outside My

Door”. This intimate and thoughtful record is a throwback to the 70s and Sesame Street-style jazz for kids. Her original songs are insightful and sensitive, and highlight the things that kids learn and wonder about, with clever lyrics and rhyme schemes, evocative of daydreaming and pensiveness.

recess Monkey: “FLying!”

Seattle band Recess Monkey’s new one, “Fly-ing!”, offers a superhero-inspired collection of music on their seventh

studio CD. Chris Ballew/Caspar Babypants, Molly Ledford (Lunch Money), Justin Lansing (The Okee Dokee Brothers), Dean Jones (Dog on Fleas), Johnny Bregar, Tom Baisden (The Not-Its!), and Chris Wiser (Sugar Free Allstars) all play superhero. Childrens’ author/illustrator Jarrett Krosocska (Lunch Lady, Punk Farm) contributes “Flying’s” stunning interior comic strip artwork, showing the world just how Recess Monkey became superheroes.

Laura Veirs: “tuMbLe bee”

Every once in a while a kid’s album comes along that just shines above the rest as a rare gem, that perfect combination of material, brilliant arrang-

ing, stellar execution and wonderful intimacy that will make a kids’ album become part of our culture. “Tumble Bee” is the first family music album from Laura Veirs and it truly is a work of art; crafted with care and thought.

tHe aLpHabeticians: “rock”

Another debut album garnering national at-tention. “Rock” from Portland band The

Alphabeticians is 18 songs long, and it’s pretty apparent that these guys like words and word-play, rhymes, puns, and musical and cultural references for grownups mixed in for good mu-sical measure. This album rocks, gently mostly, with plenty of guitars and rock-based licks, but manages to connect with kids with subjects like monsters, growing up, more ABCs, and being small in a big world.

The music scene for northwest families has never been better or more varied than it is right now. The burgeoning Kindie music scene is spawning great music for families all over the uS, and in true Left Coast fashion, northwest bands are embracing the Kindie spirit: great music, just like you would craft for grownups, only for families. 2011 brought some great debuts from northwest bands, and garnered national exposure on the 2011 year-end lists of industry tastemakers, to boot. In no particular order, here are just a few of the best Kindie recordings from northwest artists released within the last year.

by dOT RUST

a longtime Portlander, dot Rust has a varied career in music as a performer, educator, music industry executive, writer and children’s music evangelist. She currently helps run a family music label in the UK, teaches music at Mount Hood Community College and consults with northwest Kindie artists.


NW Kids Magazine | 9

outings


School Open House Guide schools

ainswortH eLeMentary

aLL saints scHooL

aprende con aMigos

address 2425 SW Vista avenue, Portland, OR 97201

601 NE 39th avenue,Portland, OR 97232

5206 N. interstate avenue, Portland, OR 97217

pHone 503-916-6288 503-236-6205 503-740-0304

website ainsworthelementary.org

allsaintsportland.com aprendeconamigos.com

description Supporting all students in achieving their very highest educational and personal potential, toinspire in them an enduring love forlearning.

Faith-centered educa-tion and community in partnership with parents. Prepares students to be life-long learners, respon-sible citizens committed to the values of Christ.

Fun, nurturing, innova-tive preschool programdesigned to enhance social, emotional, cog-nitive, and gross motor skills while learning a second language.

open House Feb 2 at 6:30 pm in the auditorium

Pre-K: Feb 7, 6:30 pm, Feb 9, 9 am, K: Feb 21, 6:30 pm, Feb 23, 9 am, Grades 1-8: Feb 28, 6:30pm

Jan 18, Feb 16, March 14, april 17

grade range/age range

K - 5 Pre-K - 8th Grades 3 - 5 years old

FuLL-day kindy yes yes No

Max enroLLMent N/a class size approx 25 30

student teacHer ratio

Varies 10:1; varies by grade 7:1

beFore/aFter scHooL care

yes yes No

reLigious aFFiLiation

No Catholic No

tuition range None See website for details. $320 - $850 monthly

FinanciaL aid No yes No

teacHing MetHod

N/a N/a Spanish immersion

speciaLity prograM

Spanish/English immer-sion and Neighborhood School, balanced Cur-riculum with Music, art, PE, Media & more.

Thematic Curriculum approach includes: Lan-guage arts, Science, Math, Religion, Social Studies & more.

imagination yoga


Aa Bb Cc


schools

bodHi tree center

burLingaMe prescHooL

escueLa ViVa

address 5403 SE Center Street, Portland, OR 97206

2401 SW Taylors Ferry Road, Suite b,Portland, OR 97219

1111 SE Pine Street, Portland, OR 97214

pHone 503-788-0336 503-244-0689 503-282-2091

website bodhiTreeChineseSchool.org

burlingamepreschool.org escuela-viva.com

description Mandarin Chinese immersion program for toddlers, preschoolers, Pre-K. Chinese and Japanese classes for children 6+ years.

Our cooperative preschool has been part of the community since 1958. Our bright Eco-Healthy classrooms and caring teachers help kids thrive.

dual Language Pro-gram including an in-fant toddler preschool, and pre-K/K classes designed to encourage children to find success and happiness.

open House See website for details. Feb. 11, 10am - 12noonapril 7, 10am - 12noon

See website for details.


2, 3 - 6, 6+ 3 & 4 6 months - Kindergarten

FuLL-day kindy No No yes

Max enroLLMent depends on class 20 per class N/a


depends on class/program

10:1 or better! depends on ages


yes No yes


No No No

tuition range depends on class $55 to $155 monthly $650 - $1,150 monthly

FinanciaL aid No No yes

teacHing MetHod

Montessori influenced + Right-brain methods

Learning through play Constructivist

speciaLity prograM

Math, Chinese language arts, Chinese fine arts, learning through activity, song, dance.

dedicated spaces for art, Reading, blocks, Rotating Educational Features, Outdoor Play & more.

Spanish, arts, Music and Movement.

School Open House Guide


schools

FrencH aMerican internationaL scHooL

gerMan aMerican scHooL oF portLand

growing seeds in irVington and nortH

Hope cHinese cHarter scHooL

8500 NW Johnson Street, Portland, OR 97229

3900 SW Murray, beaverton, OR 97005

2808 NE MLK boulevard,6505 NE MLK boulevard,Portland, OR

PO box 91602,Portland, OR 97291

503-292-7776 503-626-9089 503-203-0916 / 203-0913 971-226-7500

faispdx.org gspdx.org growingseeds.net hopeccs.org

FaiS’s multilingual pro-grams stimulate curios-ity, encourage indepen-dent thinking, foster individual responsibility, and help students real-ize their full potential.

The German american School of Portland offers a dual language program where both the German and English languages and cultures are taught and appreciated.

See website for details. Public Chinese immer-sion charter schoolprovides a comprehen-sive bilingual / biliterateeducation with empha-sis in Mandarin, English and mathematics.

Lower School: Jan 29, 9-11 am; april 5, 9-11 am. Middle School: Feb 2, 6:30 - 8 pm.

Jan 10, 6pm irvington: Tuesdays 3pm. North: Wed mornings 10am-11am. Please RSVP.

Jan 5: 6:30 – 7:30pm Jan 12: 6:30 – 7:30pm

2.5 years - 8th Grade Pre - 5th Grade 6 weeks - 6 years K - 2nd Grade

N/a yes No yes

545 250 N/a 60

9:1 9:1 depends on age 20:1

yes yes No yes

No No No No

$11,800 - $15,000 yearly $8,835 - $14,250 yearly $585 - $1,325 monthly K: $4,950 yearly

yes yes No yes

language immersion in an ib World School

Language immersion Reggio Emilia Mandarin Chinese immersion, Singapore Math, PbiS, OCF

Language immersion, French, German, Spanish, Mandarin, English, Music, art, Sports, Camps & more.

State-of-the-art facilities, art, Science and Music classrooms, Solar Panel installation, Solar Lab, and a Soccer Field.

See website for details. Mandarin Chinese immersion instruction.


schools

internationaL LeadersHip acadeMy

LittLe Fruit FarM Montessori

MaryLHurst earLy cHiLdHood center

address 1040 C avenue, PO box 996,Lake Oswego, OR 97034

16445 SW Melinda Street, beaverton, OR 97007

817 12th Street,Oregon City, OR 97045

pHone 503-662-8452 503-521-8603 503-650-0978

website ilapdx.org littlefruitfarmmontessori.com

marylhurstecc.com

description Scholarly, innovative, multilingual/multicul-tural program to help each student maximize his or her lifelong po-tential and meet chal-lenges with confidence.

Certified, licensed homebased a.M.i.Montessori preschool in SW beaverton. beautifulindoor/outdoor classroom and welcoming, dedicated teachers.

Each child travels a unique path. in our community of creators, explorers and citizens, we honor each journey.

open House See website for details. See website for details. January 21, 9am-noon


2 1/2 years old - Middle school

2.5 - 6 Preschool - 2nd grade

FuLL-day kindy yes No yes

Max enroLLMent 50 16 180


8:1 6:1 8:1


yes yes yes


No No No

tuition range $6,098 - $9,900 yearly $500 - $800 monthly $125 - $680 monthly

FinanciaL aid yes No yes

teacHing MetHod

French curriculum active method. Learner center method

Montessori Emergent curriculum

speciaLity prograM

Music, art, French, ara-bic, Spanish, Chinese, body in Motion pro-gram, Cooking, yoga, Piano, Tech. and more.

Music, soccer, arts and crafts, variety of field trips and after school tutoring.

Enrichment programs offered in Spanish, art & Science.



schools

nortHwest cHinese acadeMy

opaL scHooL oF tHe cHiLdren’s MuseuM

oregon episcopaL scHooL

oregon Hope cHinese scHooL and iMMersion prescHooL

8565 SW beaverton-Hillsdale Highway, beaverton, OR 97225

4015 SW Canyon Road, Portland, OR 97221

6300 SW Nicol Road, Portland, OR 97223

14986 NW Cornell Road, Portland, OR 97229

503-546-3455 503-471-9917 503-246-7771 971-226-7240

nwchineseacademy.org portlandcm.org oes.edu oregon-hope.org

Educating today for tomorrow’s world. Full time, co-educational Mandarin Chinese immersion school serving preschool - middle school.

Curriculum built on inquiry based, ReggioEmilia learning strategies; and influenced by a strong image of children as intelligent, creative andresourceful.

independent collegepreparatory school for Pre-K-Grade 12. Prepares young leaders with the skills needed to thrive in a changing world.

OHCS Mandarin Kids Chinese immersion Preschool is an OR state certified early child-hood Chinese Manda-rin immersion program for children ages 3-5.

Jan 21, 10am-12pm; Jan 22, 1-3 pm; Feb 4, 10am-12 pm; Feb 5, 1-3 pm; Feb 7, 4:30 - 7 pm

Jan 17, 6:30pm-8pmJan 28, 8:30am-10am

January 5, 6pm - 8pm Jan.12, 6:30pm-7:30pm

Preschool (age 3) - Middle School

3 - 6 years PK - 5th grade ages 3 - 5

yes yes yes yes

120 20 43

7:1 10:1 8:1 7:1

yes yes yes yes

No No Episcopal, non-parochial/independent

No

$6,500 - $12,750 yearly $6,850 - $8,250 yearly $13,110 - $24,230 yearly $289 - $879 monthly

yes No yes No

immersion Education Reggio Emilia PK & K - Reggio Emilia Chinese Mandarin immersion

Chinese language flu-ency and cultural un-derstanding, Math, Sci-ence, Music, art, English Literacy & more.

See website for details. Music, art, language, PE, Spanish, lunch included in tuition.

High quality Chinese language and culture immersion program. Music, art, Games & more.


schools

park acadeMy petit pois daycare

scuoLa itaLiana di portLand

address 17600 Pacific Highway, Marylhurst, OR 97036

7348 SW Corbett avenue,Portland, OR 97219

PO box 6507,Portland, OR 97228(Pearl district)

pHone 503-697-6213 503-208-1007 971-271-0470

website parkacademy.org petitpoisdaycare.com scuola.us

description Welcomes students whose learningchallenges, specificallydyslexia, have not beenaddressed in a traditional school setting.

Petit Pois is a French/English bilingual daycare located in a calm, friendly neighborhood in Southwest Portland.

Promotes italian language and culture to children in a student-centered environment; nurturing responsible, global citizens.

open House January 266:30 pm - 8 pm

Feb 612 noon - 5 pm

May 1210:30am - 12:30pm


4 - 12th grade infants - 4 years old Preschool to adult - ages 3 years and up

FuLL-day kindy No No No

Max enroLLMent 52 12 N/a


7:1 1 to 6 (or 1 to 4 for babies) 6:1


yes yes No


No No No

tuition range $15,500 yearly $182 - $276 weekly $10 - $13 hourly

FinanciaL aid yes No No

teacHing MetHod

Multi-sensory French/English bilingual Reggio Emilia immersion

speciaLity prograM

Language arts, Social Studies, Science, Math and Writing, Theatre, art, Music, aSL & Spanish (High School only).

Each month we explore a new academic theme through the use of stories, songs, and art and craft projects.

Reggio Emilia inspired preschool for 3 & 4 year olds, weekend & after-school language immersion & more.



schools

st. ceciLia scHooL

sungarden Montessori cHiLdren’s House

sunset prescHooL

sweet peas kidzone

12250 SW 5th Street, beaverton, OR 97005

2284 Long Street, West Linn, OR 97068

6100 SW Raab Road, Portland, OR 97221

15320 NW Central drive, Portland, OR 97229

503-644-2619 503-655-2609 503-246-6435 503-533-5252

stceciliaschool.us sungardenmontessori.org sunset-preschool.com sweetpeaskidzone.com

The mission of St. Cecilia School is to prepare students to be responsible citizens and life-long learners with strong Catholic values.

SunGarden is a charming place for children to learn and grow. aMi recognized. Non-profit. Jr. Green School.

Learn Through Play Cooperative Preschool.

We implement a program that encourages social and emotional growth in combination with physical and mental development.

Jan 2910 am to 12:30 pm

Jan 2810am - 12 pm

Jan 317:00 pm

Feb 7, 6-8pm and Feb 11, 10am-noon

PK - 8 ages 2.5 - 6 3 - 5 years old 3 - K

yes yes N/a yes

30 per grade (K-8) 50 20 4's ; 18 3's 14 per class

14:1 8.3:1 1:8-10 (plus parent) 7:1

yes yes yes yes

Catholic No No No

$1,500 - $5,900 yearly $585 - $995 monthly $175 - $200 monthly Varies

yes yes No No

N/a Montessori developmentally appropriate - Learn Through Play

N/a

Co-curricular offerings include PE & Health, Music, Computer, Spanish, art, Literacy, Sports & more.

Practical Life, Sensorial, Music, Language, art, Mathematics, Geography, Movement & Outdoor activities.

Music, art, Movement, Off-site activities, in-house guest visitors.

See website for details.


schools

tHe LiVing scHooL

tHe peanut gaLLery pLayscHooL

tHe portLand scHooL oF experientiaL education

address 1111 SE Pine Street,Portland, OR 97214

NE Portland (Cully neighborhood)

2728 NE 34th avenue, Portland, OR 97212

pHone 503-752-4783 503-998-7259 503-288-8685

website thelivingschool.org thepeanutgalleryplayschool.com

pdxedschool.org

description a lively, nurturing, inde-pendent, community K-6 school where learn-ers cultivate confidence, empathy, creativity, resourcefulness, and a strong work ethic.

Program designed to combine social & educa-tional benefits in an in-home environmentincluding self-directedplay, & creative expression through art & imagination.

Nurtures innate curiosi-ties and the exchang-ing of ideas, in a collab-orative and cooperative learning environment and fosters a life-long love of learning.

open House Feb 2, 6pm March 1, 6pm

Feb 25, 10 am - 12 noon Tours Upon Request + Open House March


K - 6 18 months to not yet 4 by September 2012

2.5 - 6 years old

FuLL-day kindy yes No yes

Max enroLLMent 56 16 40


14:1 2-3 teachers to 14-16 students

Ratios fall significantly under legal limit


yes No yes


No No No

tuition range $700 monthly See website for details. $400 - $1200 monthly

FinanciaL aid N/a No yes

teacHing MetHod

a mixture of Reggio Emilia, Constructivist, Education for Life

N/a Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Outdoor Education

speciaLity prograM

dual language English/Spanish program, an hour of P.E. each day, outdoor play, art, and community outreach.

after care available until 4:30 pm.

Spanish, Music PSU Practicum Site, art, Out-door Education + all Weather School, Gar-dening, yoga & more.



schools

triLLiuM cHarter scHooL

wiLLow tree prescHooL

5420 N. interstate avenue, Portland, OR 97217

7055 N Williams avenue, Portland, OR 97217

503-285-3833 503-756-6428

trilliumcharterschool.org

willowtreepreschool.com

Placing the natural de-velopment of children and relationships that they share with their en-vironment at the center of our philosophy.

Children’s natural sense ofawe and wonder isnurtured throughmovement, song and story, and art, nature and the seasons.

Jan 26, 6:30 - 7:30 pm Feb 23, 6:30 - 7:30 pm

February 410am - 12noon

ages 3 and 4 3 - 5 years old

No No

24 Sprouts/16 blossoms 13 per day

8:1 6:1

yes No

No No

$220 - $640 monthly $420 - $725 monthly

No No

Reggio Emilia Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, Play based

See website for details. Weekly visits from yoga & art Specialists, Reggio influences, inquiry and Reflection & more.

Iggy Pop onesieat black Wagon, $28.

Mr. Ben Ukuleleat Milagros and Eco baby Gear, $70.

Hedgehog Plays Piano Art Print by Susie Ghahremani at buyolympia.com $20.

Crow Sounderat The Learning Place, $8.

McSweeney’s Symphony City by Amy Martinat buyolympia.com, $18.

Saxoflute at Finnegans, $10.

cleeo & bea is a Portland mama-owned blog featuring hip kid product reviews. Our goal is to provide useful information and honest reviews of kids’ products that our families and friends have used. We find high-quality, eco- and kid-safe, cool products—things you might not see everyday—and enjoy passing them on to you. cleeoandbea.com

Plan Xylophoneat Thinker Toys, $23.

Handle Sleigh Bells at The Learning Place, $8.

Rhythm Tom Tom at Spielwerk Toys, $28.

by cleeo & bea


music


schools

Navigating the Portland school system can take a lot of time and research, but one of the most important factors is to consider your family’s resources, and the lifestyle shifts you are willing to make when your kids start school. Before getting started on your search for the right schools, and especially before considering schools across town or that charge tuition, take some time to figure out your boundaries and what works for your family.

Money The most obvious resource issue is money.

Try to take a cold, hard look at what your boundaries are on costs. Can you afford to consider private school, or would you qualify for tuition assistance? Can you afford to pay for full time Kindergarten ($200-300 a month for schools that do not get supplemental federal Title 1 funding, yes, for public school, sad to say this is the reality in Oregon) if that is what is offered at the school where you end up? Do you need to factor in costs for before or after school care?

transportation Transportation is a money, time, and

availability issue. Transfer students are not bussed to their non-neighborhood school, so this must be considered if you are looking outside of your neighborhood. Going to a school that is a schlep can also impact your family’s involvement and sense of connection to that school, and can make play dates a real hassle. Especially in the case of neighborhood schools, commuting in from another neigh-borhood can impact your family’s chances to

be socially spontaneous, and also affect your sense of connection with your own neighbors.

considering tHe wHoLe FaMiLy Another thing to consider is the collective

interest of your family. It’s tempting to engi-neer a decision around that first child entering school, with the second or third child only as an afterthought. But take a look at your other children, and assuming that you are hoping to put all your kids in the same school, do your best to make the decision with all of them in mind.

What about the culture you are looking for as a parent? The ideal situation is of course a community that the whole family will enjoy, where your values will be echoed in the halls and homes of your new school.

And on the subject of “whole-family fit” keep in mind that your co-parenting partner might have different notions than you. Get-ting on the same page might take hours of conversation and will force you both to hone your vision and eloquently advocate for it, not always an easy task.

LeaVe yourseLF soMe FLexibiLity All this said, give yourself a backdoor.

Many of our friends have set boundaries in place, only to visit a school and feel the cosmic pull that their child belongs there, and the plan is adjusted. You’ll have ideals and you’ll have realities, but in the end some compromise or another will probably be made in the school decision, so leave yourself room to change your mind as you go through the process.

scHooLs: FINDINGA WHolE-FAMIly FIT

by SCOOP ON SCHOOLS

Scoop on Schools is a product of two Portland moms’, Jacqueline Jannotta Rothenberg and Katy Mayo-Hudson collective obsession with finding Portland schools where their children would thrive. For guidance and a wealth of information, visit, scooponshools.com.


sound roots 3954 N Williams Ave.soundrootsmusic.com

The Rookie Rock hour-long drop-in class ($5 per kid age 0-7) lets kids and their parentshang out with local musical favorites like Mo Philips and Tyleena Fairyfunkmother as theylearn about rhythms and explore various instruments. Junior Jams classes ($60/month,once a week for 45 minutes) is for kiddos age 3-6, who learn different instruments, composetheir own songs and build a band. Older kids 6-9 can spend two weeks each of a 10-weekcourse ($160) exploring a single instrument to find their favorite. East Coast transplantsFara and Chris Heath opened the studio three years ago, after moving here and seeing thestate of music education in the schools.

etHos Music center10 N. Killingsworth St.ethos.org

This nonprofit powerhouse, established in 1998, offers everything from preschool classesto lessons for grade-schoolers, summer rock band camps and Music Corps programs inthe schools. Little Music (age 2-4 $90 per 10-week session), is a musical story time andinstrument exploration for parents and kids. Lessons for older kids ($120 per session) areoffered in keyboard, hand drums and ukulele (kindergarten to grade 2), as well as guitar,drum set, piano and violin (grades 2-6). Ethos uses a sliding scale, with financial aid and

free instrument loans for students qualifying for free or reduced meals at school.

pFeiFer Musicwerks studio4518 NE 28th Ave.MusicWerksStudio.com

MusicWerks offers a wide-range of classes for babes on up through adult taught by professional music teachers. Music lessons are tailored to the student and can take place in the studio or at home. Lessons include piano, guitar, a wide range of strings, and voice instruction, as well as Theory, Composition, and specialty courses. For the younger set, check out the 10 week Music and Movement courses for parents and tots ages 0 - 3 ($140) or the 12 week Piano Pixie course for ages 3 and up ($210). Students will develop a strong foundation in music fundamentals while having fun.

by JEN aNdERSON

Making Musicians:Portland Music SchoolsWhether it’s banging on pots and pans or singing the silly version of “Jingle bell Rock” at the top of their lungs, most kids are just bursting to release their inner rock star. With Portland’s colossal music scene, there are endless opportunities to harness that creative energy and nurture your little Mozart’s talents. They all operate under the same premise: it’s never too early to expose kids to music, and the more positive musical influences, the better. Who can argue with that? Here are some of the Rose City’s most popular offerings for the youngest set.

Jen anderson is a reporter for the Portland Tribune, covering education and youth issues in the local area. She is the mama to two boys and lives in beaverton.

Photos Courtesy of Ethos Music Center

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Dad Rock?Nope, A DAD Who Rocks

What led you to the Kindie music scene?

I started playing piano at age five and then had my first guitar/singing gig at 15 in front of my high school singing “Train In Vain” by The Clash, which incidentally, I sang for the kiddos at Milagros this morning. Kindipendent music was a natural confluence of my two lives where I was playing rock shows at Satyricon at night and then going to teach preschool the next day. I would say my two sons had no small part as well.

Where do you draw inspiration for your songs?

A good 25% of my songs come from my sons Henry and Owen who will start songs or ideas that I then try to expand on. Often their original idea far exceeds my mistreatment of their material. I have a feeling that in twenty years they will be giving interviews about their awesome song making prowess and they will

say, “Yeah, our old man used to sit around and try to make up songs so it mighta rubbed off on us a bit.”

What is Rock ‘n’ Roll Kindy?

RNRK is an after school program for grades K-2 where over a ten week session we form a band, write songs, create instruments and t-shirts, and then put on a show for parents. It actually started as a preschool program, the first ever band we formed was Fire Guitars at City Kids here in Portland.

What do you like about working with and performing for kids?

Unbridled joy. The kids don’t mess around. They are not concerned with my musical integrity or cultural cache. However, they are keenly aware of what they like, and for the most part wear it on their sleeves. They are the most honest of critics.

We’ve spent the last few years following Kindie musicians around the city. Our goal has been to find artists that our kids can cut a rug to, and that we like, too. One of our favorites is Mo Phillips. The kids love Mo because he’s fun and makes them feel like dancing, catching air, and laughing all at once. His songs are original, not syrupy sweet, and he’s usually good for a toe tapping rendition of a song from our youth. i recently spoke to Mo about Kindie music, what he loves about performing, and where he’s headed. Here’s what he had to say.—KSL

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We can tolerate your music much more than other children’s music, why?

I am deeply humbled, truly. This is the great aim, the true mission. “Kids” albums are played at such a high repeat rate that I feel that it is my duty to try and maintain as much parental sanity as I can, whatever little might be left.

What’s next for you, projects, tours?

We are just finishing up the new album “Monster Suit” and are truly over the moon with how its coming along. It is due out on April 10th. As for tours, I would love to get to the Westside of Portland. Where ya’ at Westside!?! Gimme a call!

Mo can be found almost daily playing in kid friendly coffee shops around town and is available for parties or the Rock ‘n’ Roll Kindy program. Learn more at mophillips.com. Mo’s new album “Monster Suit” will be released on april 10th and you can bet we’ll be humming along to it shortly after.


PErforMANcES

Jan 9pcpa noontime showcase – the ugliest ducklingTears of Joy Theatre performs this classic tale with beautiful puppetry. Free! 12pm.pcpa.com

Jan 20disney’s phineas and Ferb: the best Live tour ever!disney Channel’s favorite platypus detective is now part of an exciting live touring stage show. Part action adventure and part rock concert with hit songs from the animated series! $20-50, 4pm & 7pm.rosequarter.com

Jan 22, 28 & 29oregon children’s theatre – the Magic school bus Liveafter 25 years of scientific adventures, the Magic School bus makes its first-ever landing in Portland! The Frizz and her class circle the globe, from antarctica to the equator, learning about global warming. $20-40, Sat 2pm & 5pm, Sun 2pm. octc.org

Jan 27-29northwest childrens theater – rapunzel--uncut! Get set for a hip new tale of the girl with the tresses trapped in a tower! With a live youth band, this indie rock musical full of humor and adventure features a hapless prince, evil powers and a twist on the traditional tangled tale. $18-$22, Fri 7pm, Sat 2pm & 6pm, Sun 2pm. nwcts.org

EVENTSall thru JanMultnomah county Library – read to the dogsKids can practice reading aloud and make new friends by reading to a therapy dog throughout the month of January at various Library branches. Please check website for more details. multcolib.org

Mons in Jansound roots school of Music – taya JacobsTaya Jacobs brings her sweet southern country roots and infectious personality to the stage for a down home, comfort-food kind of morning music hour at your favorite Nopo music school. $5 per kid, 10am. soundrootsmusic.com

tuEs in Janstorytime at green bean booksEnjoy weekly storytime at one of our favorite independent children’s bookstores.greenbeanbookspdx.com

tuEs and WEds in Janoaks park – preschool play and skatea special roller skating session just for your little ones! Skating lessons, games, and snack time for kids under 6 years old. $5.50 per child, adults free with paid child admission, includes skate rental. 10-11:30am. oakspark.com

WEds in JanFancy that & bliss bake shop – storytime & Free bitty cupcakesStorytime, free cupcakes, and coffee for the grownups – what’s more to like? best for kids 5 & under, 10:30-11am.blisscupcakeshop.com

Please confirm calendar events and performances as scheduling changes may occur.

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thurs in Jane.a.t. – Lunchtime with Mr. benCome have lunch or coffee while Mr. ben entertains and educates the kids in an interactive music show. Free, 11am-12pm.mrbenmusic.com

Jan 5 & 19green bean books – Magic books bookmaking classJoin local artist Sarah Fagan as she teaches kids how to make their very own books! Jan 5 is Flag books and Jan 19 is Exquisite Corpse, or “whimsical body,” books. For kids 6-11 – each class is limited to 5 kids so sign up now! $10 per kid, $1 off second kid. 3:30-4:30pm. greenbeanbookspdx.com

Jan 6portland children’s Museum – target Free First FridaysEnjoy all the fun of the museum for free! January is the last month check out the new LEGO Castle adventure exhibit – don’t miss it! 4-8pm. portlandcm.org

Jan 7art a la carte pdx grand openingCome celebrate the grand opening of this Sellwood kids’ art studio’s brand spankin’ new space! Craft projects, face painting, live music, and an hourly raffle. Free, with a suggested donation of art supplies. 11am-4pm. artalacartepdx.blogspot.com

Jan 7Mississippi pizza – youth spelling beeCalling all master spellers! Kids ages 5-18 compete on the Mississippi Pizza stage, with

3 difficulty levels, fun prizes, and a treat for every speller. Free entrance, 1pm (signups start at 12:45). mississippipizza.com

Jan 8curious comedy theater – the curious gardenCome see our friends old and new – Razzie the Fairy, daisy the Flower, dottie the Ladybug and Flappy the Chicken! For all ages - especially kids 0-8, and ends with an open mic where you can sing, dance, tell a joke and show off your talent! $5 suggested donation, 10:30-11:30am. curiouscomedy.org

Jan 8 Magness Memorial tree Farm – Free guided toura fun and informative tour of the Magness Property where the whole family can learn the history of Magness, some tree identification, and the importance of sustainable forestry. Rain or shine so put your galoshes and comfy clothes on! Free, 2-3pm.worldforestry.org

Jan 10oregon zoo – $4 second tuesdayEnjoy all the wonders the zoo has to offer the second Tuesday of every month! Kids 0-2 free as always. 9am-4pm. oregonzoo.org

Jan 10Hopworks – tot tuesdayCome to Hopworks for a children’s activity and storytime with light, healthy snacks in the upstairs mezzanine. Want to stay for lunch afterward? There’s a kid’s play area! 11am-12pm. hopworksbeer.com

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Jan 13east portland community center - $2 swim nightGrab your suit and bring the whole family for an evening swim! $2 per person, kids 0-3 free. Family swim 5:30-7pm, open swim 7-9pm. portlandonline.com/parks

Jan 14Friends of tryon creek - wapato winter birding walkan informal walk on Sauvie island to learn about bird identification, behavior, and resident bird populations. bring a bag lunch and don’t forget your binoculars! Registration required. Free, 9am-12pm. tryonfriends.org

Jan 14belmont Firehouse – safety saturdayVisit the historic firehouse on belmont the second Saturday of every month, learn about the history of fire safety in Portland, and check out all the exhibits! 10am-3pm.jeffmorrisfoundation.org

Jan 14My Masterpiece art studio – parents’ night outEnjoy a grownup date night and let your kids get creative at the art studio! They’ll play with paint and clay, have a pizza dinner, and enjoy artful games and stories. The night ends with movie time and a treat! ages 4-12, $38 per child ($18 per add’l sibling). 5-9pm.mymasterpieceartstudio.com

Jan 20community Music center – Friday Family series Every month the Community Music Center in SE Portland hosts a free musical night for families. This month, welcome Classical

Revolution PdX, a chamber music group that brings out the casual side of classical music. $5-15 suggested donation.communitymusiccenter.org

Jan 20Family Movie night (rio) - play boutiqueGrab the whole family for this fun, memory making event. $6 per person, free for members, 5-7pm. playboutique.com

Jan 21oregon Maritime Museum – Museum Family saturdayFamilies are invited to discover Portland’s maritime history with a craft project to take home. Free for families with kids under 18. 11am-4pm. oregonmaritimemuseum.org

Jan 21 & 22world Forestry center – chocolateFestThe 7th annual ChocolateFest is here! Sample and taste local chocolatey goodness to your heart’s delight. $7-10, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-5pm. chocolatefest.org

Jan 26 Last thursday on albertaOn the last Thursday of every month, come out to the alberta arts neighborhood in NE Portland for street vendors, food carts, live music, and all sorts of entertainment. bundle up! 4-10pm. lastthursdayonalberta.com

Jan 29portland art Museum – Free 4th FridayVisit the Portland art Museum for free the 4th Friday of every month! 5-8pm.portlandartmuseum.org

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