Kids Halloween Costumes Only Pacific Northwest Parents Get

Mostly DIY PNW Inspired Halloween Costumes

October is approaching, which means Halloween is just around the corner. We’ve put together a list of Pacific Northwest inspired costumes for all ages. Best part? They’re simple enough you can create them from what you have on hand…or from a quick trip to Goodwill!

Our Favorites

1. Campfire Smore’s Costume

Whether it’s a family affair, or your kiddo aims to play the role on their own, this costume idea is bound to get a few laughs. Gather some cardboard, a hot glue gun, scissors, felt, a twig, and you’re good to go!

2. Coffee Lovers Costume

It’s no secret we love our coffee in the PNW, and those of us in Bend know there’s a mild townie obsession with Dutch Bros.

3. Park Ranger Costume

This costume is perfect for kids who love our National Parks as much as the Rangers do! Grab a wide brim hat, some neutral colored clothing, a patch from the thrift store and some binoculars.

4. Local Farmer Costume

Central Oregon loves their farmers! Why not play dress up as an ode to Oregon agriculture. Don’t have time to craft a mini John Deer of your own? Fill a small basket with produce or fill an apron with gardening tools!

5. El Sancho Taco Costume

Show your love for favorite Bend spot, El Sancho Taco Shop, and dress the family as tacos! Parents, don’t forget to bring the heat by dressing as a condiment or hot sauce. Stop into El Sancho for some restaurant swag to add as the finishing touch.

6. Sasquatch Costume

Sasquatch, Big Foot, Yeti, these are all names for a folklore character near and dear to the heart of the PNW. Does dressing up as this scary woodland monster sound appealing? It’s definitely a warmer option for crisp October evenings! This one might be a bit tricky to pull together at home, so here’s an option to purchase online.

7. Lumberjack Costume

What could be more Iconic in this neck of the woods than the Lumberjack? Top it off with a beanie and draw on a beard for this burly look!

8. Snail Costume

Snails have a big impact on the forest floor in the PNW. They also make a super cute costume for any age with many ways to interpret. We’re loving these ideas, especially incorporating the reusible twisted packaging paper as the antennas and shell. Have fun with this one!

If we’ve inspired your Halloween costume let us know, we’d love to see it!

More Halloween Fun in Bend!

Pumpkin Carving at Old Saint Francis
Sunday, October 20, 10am
McMenamins Old St Francis School, Bend
Come carve a pumpkin and enjoy fresh apple cider, kids movies, donuts and more! The entry of $15 per person includes a pumpkin of your choice, carving kit, fresh apple cider and donuts. Kids’ Halloween Movie (TBD). Costumes encouraged!

Tales of Hallow’s Eve
October 26, 6 – 9pm
$10
High Desert Museum, Bend
A Halloween party like you’ve never seen! Dare to enter the haunted Spirit of the West exhibit. Family fun for all ages. Costumes encouraged! Museum café will be open for food and drinks.

 

 

 

Central Oregon is Going Back to School

Perfect Back to School Pics + Bend La Pine School Schedules + After School Care

Central Oregon’s first day of school is upon us! Whether it’s the first day of kindergarten or a returning student, don’t forget to commemorate this special day with a creative photo of your kiddo before they head out on their big adventure.

We’ve pulled some creative ideas to keep you from ending up like this mom, and even if you do that’s cool too!

Source: Essentially Momming Blog

Our 3 favorite back to school photo ideas:

1. Reversible 1st Day/Last Day School Sign Photo Prop

Bend-based Leemo Designs has the right idea! A wooden sign in the finish of your choice with “My First Day of _” on one side and “My Last Day of _” on the other. Included are removable K-5 grades, which you can slot into the sign to use for each grade and on the first and last days of the school year. A great prop to commemorate their first and last day of each school year! Plus you end up with consistent photos and this single photo prop will last for six years.

2. Chalk Boards

Image via kyndull/Instagram

Bust out that chalk board paint and make a sign to last through the school years. We love this concept for highlighting not only the memory, but interests and personality.

3. Frame it!

Image via afarrari28/Instagram

Think scrapbooking IRL. Take your scissor skills to the next level & frame your kiddos face on the way out the door. Grab some supplies and make a family craft day out of this fun and functional idea.

Before…..and After

imgur

It’s no surprise that the after might look a little different, we’re reminded by this family that the first day back takes up A LOT of energy.

“Where’d your jacket go?”

“It’s gone”

“What do you mean It’s gone?”

“I don’t want to talk about it.”

Central Oregon School Schedules

NOTE: Bend-La Pine Schools is implementing new school start times for the 2019-20 school year

START AND RELEASE TIMES

Bend LaPine

– Elementary

8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday

– Middle School 

8:45 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday

– High School 

8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8:45 a.m. to 2:05 p.m. Wednesday

Marshall, Skyline and Realms High Schools

9 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Wednesday

Three Rivers School

-Elementary School

8:20 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8:20 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday

-Middle School

8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday

Realms Middle School

8:50 a.m. to 3:25 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8:50 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Wednesday

*NOTE: Individual schools may have slightly adjusted start and release times and will contact families with that information.

School Improvement Wednesdays
Allows Time for Teacher Training and Professional Development

Beginning Wednesday, September 11 students will be released early each Wednesday to allow for teacher collaboration, training, and enrichment designed to improve student learning and achievement district-wide. Meeting weekly allows teachers and school leaders time for collaboration and educational growth. When teachers have the chance to discuss effective teaching methods, cooperatively design teaching materials, and coach one another, our schools make significant improvements. Providing consistent school improvement time is advantageous for students as it results in fewer interruptions of the school year. Schools work with our partners in the community to provide after-school opportunities for families on School Improvement Wednesdays. Please contact your school for more information.

After School Help

School schedules don’t always coincide with parents schedules, Snappy Sitters can help. Sitters can pick up or drop off your kids to school, take them to lessons or practice. Start building relationships with our safety screened professional sitters today!

 

 

 

Age Appropriate Chores for Kids

Including infographic and chore chart ideas!

 

One of the more difficult aspects of parenting is doling out household chores. Having children help around the house builds family relationships, teaches managing a schedule, and prepares them for life on their own.

However, deciding when to introduce new responsibilities can be a challenge for parents. Starting from the age of two, children are old enough to take on responsibilities around the house. The keys to managing a child’s chores are proper motivation and age appropriateness.

How to Get Kids Involved

Getting kids involved in household chores can be confusing given that there are so many things around the house to do. Figuring out which things your child can handle requires an assessment of their maturity and motor skills. It’s important that, when introducing any chore, you demonstrate how to complete it step by step.

2-3

In their toddler years, children are still developing their motor skills. They are able to pick up and hold on to objects and walk around. This means that they are ready to handle tasks such as putting away their toys, cleaning up spills, and feeding pets.

Children may require supervision for these activities in order to ensure they complete the tasks in a reasonable amount of time. If your pet eats canned foods, you’ll want to put off having them the pet until they have developed strong motor skills around age six.

4-7

As your child grows, they will not only develop their motor skills, but also strength to lift and use handheld objects. It’s good to introduce a child to sweeping, raking, and using handheld vacuums. They will also no longer be in a crib and should learn to make their bed.

Other things their increased coordination can handle at this age are things like setting and clearing the dinner table, emptying trash cans (use discretion as to which trash cans they are emptying), and getting the mail.

8-10

By age eight, children have developed the patience and cognition to handle more time intensive tasks. In addition, they’ve developed the motor skills to handle larger objects such as vacuums and mop buckets. Introducing your child to vacuuming and mopping is a good idea at this age.

In addition, a child’s ability to follow complex directions at this age allows them to help out with doing the laundry, cooking, and taking the pet for a walk. To ensure that your child is mature enough for these tasks, do them with your child at first, later moving to supervising, and finally allow them to do them on their own.

11+

As your child gets older, they will develop the maturity to do things like handle chemical cleaners and look after younger siblings. At this age, it’s appropriate for your child to clean the bathroom and kitchen. In addition, they should have the skills to wash the windows. Be sure you review the instructions on the bottles and go over the risks of combining cleaning products.

If you are comfortable with your child staying home alone, they may be old enough to handle babysitting their siblings. Be sure to give specific instructions on what to eat and when to put their siblings to bed.

As your child reaches their teenage years, it may be a good time to introduce them to more substantial household tasks like mowing the lawn or helping with home improvement projects. This requires some discretion on the part of the parent to know when a child is ready for these more advanced tasks.

How to Keep Kids Motivated

One hurdle parents come across when assigning chores is keeping children motivated to complete them. Although punishment for non-completion of tasks may be necessary, it won’t provide the motivation for them to do tasks on their own and may be more trouble for parents than it’s worth.

It’s important not to insist on perfection when having your child do chores. Praise them for any work they do, and show them how to do anything they neglected. Positive reinforcement often works better than punishment in motivating children.

Lastly, parents should be consistent in assigning chores. Children should be regularly responsible for a discrete set of tasks. Many parents find that having a chart of routine chores keeps children on a schedule and helps parents keep track of what chores have been completed.

The simplest way to construct a chores chart is to list the chore, the person responsible for it, and when it needs to be done. It’s not a bad idea to include chores that you and any other caregivers will engage in, so your child doesn’t feel singled out for housework.

This custom chore chart was made by LeeMo Designs in Bend, Oregon.

A controversial subject when it comes to chores is payment. Some parents handle children’s allowances by paying their child for completing chores. Most parenting experts say that this is detrimental to a child’s development.

Paying children for chores develops a work ethic that only exists if there is an additional incentive to completing the task at hand. Not only will that prove more expensive as your child ages, but also will not set them up to be responsible for routine tasks on their own as an adult.

Your best bet is to give your child an allowance independent of chores. It’s not a bad idea, however, to offer to pay for unusual chores such as deep cleaning behind the stove or setting up for a garage sale.

Ultimately, deciding which chores a child should be doing is going to require judgments about a child’s motor skills, their attention span, and their maturity. Done right, your child will not only be a dutiful member of the family, but they will learn valuable lessons about responsibility that will last them a lifetime.

 

Get Your Wiggle On

Keep Kids Moving this Summer, Central Oregon Style

 

Kiddos look forward to Summer break all year long. Summer means a break from homework, PTA meetings, and the early morning rush to catch the bus. Although these breaks can feel much needed, sometimes other habits take a break too, like bedtimes, and rules on the electronics.

It takes planning and awareness to help your kids stay active during the break, some parts of their school routine are important to stick to year round, like the right amount of sleep, and time to exercise.

It’s not hard to find opportunities for physical activity living in Central Oregon. Try to push for at least 60 minutes each day, including aerobic and muscle strengthening.

Here are some fun ideas to keep your kids moving:

 

1. Family swim at Juniper Swim & Fitness Center
2. Summer drop-in dance classes at Terpsichorean Dance Studio
3. Discover Days of Play at Bend Parks & Rec: kids can participate in crafts, water play, field games, sports activities and more.
4. Jump, twist or rock climb at the Trampoline Zone
5. Attend one of the Moms Meetup of Central Oregon events! These range in activities like walking in the park, toddler treks, and swimming.
6. Start a home improvement project, let them help paint that old chair you’ve been meaning to repurpose.
7. Work around the house and yard. Keeps them active while teaching them responsibility.
8. Have a sprinkler or slip n slide party.
9. Run with your kiddo then see if they are interested in running a race through Kids Rock the Races
   1. July 26th – The Balloon Blast race is an obstacle course race for kids ages 3-10 with seven to eight fun and exciting obstacles appropriate for all types of children with a wide range of skills.
   2. July 13th – Droplet Dash The fun run will be held during the Bend Summer Festival.
10. Lakes! Floating the river is fun, but don’t forget that we are surrounded by lakes! Pile the floaties in the car and head up to four of our favorites: Elk Lake, Devils Lake, Suttle Lake and Little Lava Lake.
11. Nature walks at the Old Mill , Deschutes Land Trust, and Sunriver Nature Center
12. Head to the park for a few rounds of basketball at Kiwanis Park.

Try molding these ideas into a consistent routine, having this structure over the summer months will help build healthy habits and make the transition back to school in the Fall much easier for everyone!

 

 

Hands in the Dirt, Kids Dig Gardening

Community Gardens in Bend and Where to Pick Berries this Summer

Basking in the warmth of the sun with a bucket of ripe strawberries. Berry juice dripping down your chin as you eat sweet fruit that tastes like candy. Do you remember those precious summer moments? Taking your kids out berry picking or gardening with them can teach them so much about nature and where their food comes from.

When children grow their own food or visit a garden or berry farm they are more likely to want to try and eat more fruits and vegetables. Plus, according to “Dirt is Good: The Advantage of Germs for Your Child’s Developing Immune System” by doctor Jack Gilbert exposure to dirt and other microorganisms in the garden is good for your child’s immune system.

 

Community Gardens

Even if it’s too late to get a plot at one of these locations you can visit with your kids and see what others are doing. Often you can tell which plots are from families with kids, they have fun signs or handmade plants tags. Here are a few community gardens in Bend:

• Northwest Crossing Community Garden
• Franklin’s Corner Community Garden
• Kansas Ave. Learning Garden
• Hollinshead Community Garden at Hollinshead Park, Bend

Kid Friendly Fruit & Berry Picking

Pack up some sunscreen and a picnic and head to the valley for a day of berry or fruit picking. Enjoy the day in the fresh air and sunshine and fill your belly with sweet (healthy) goodies. You’ll want to check with the farms to confirm they have picking available before you go.

• Hazen’s Riverside Blueberry Farm
  96707 Burton Prairie Rd., Coquille, OR 97423
  Pick: Blueberries
  Season: end of June to the first of July
• Smith Berry Barn
  24500 SW Scholls Ferry Road, Hillsboro, OR 97123
  Pick: strawberries, blackberries, raspberries
  Season: late May through early October
• South Barlow Berries
  29190 South Barlow Road, Canby, OR 97013
  Pick: strawberries, raspberries, marionberries, boysenberries, blackberries and blueberries
  Season: Late May
• Bella Organic
  16205 NW Gillihan Rd., Portland, OR 97231
  Pick: strawberries, cherries, blueberries, blackberries
  Season: June through August
• Kruger’s Farm Market
  17100 NW Sauvie Island Rd., Portland, OR 97231
  Pick: strawberries, raspberries, marionberries, boysenberries, blackberries and blueberries
  Season: Late May
• Boones Ferry Berry Farms
  19602 boones Ferry Rd., Hubbard, OR 97032
  Pick: marionberries, boysenberries, raspberries, and strawberries
  Season: Late May

 

11 Best Summer Camps in Bend, Oregon

Parents’ Guide to Summer Camps

In just a few short months, your child will trade in their pencils and schoolbooks for popsicles and sunshine. Yep – summer break is just around the corner!

If you have yet to start planning your child’s summer vacation from school, you’ve come to the right place. Not only do camps provide a safe space for your child to learn, grow, and explore, but they offer an abundance of activities that can be difficult to replicate on your own.

Below, you’ll find an overview of the 10 best summer camps for kids in Bend, Oregon. Happy reading!

1. Kids Paddle Sports Adventure Camp at Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe

Location: 805 SW Industrial Way, Suite 6, Bend, OR 97702

Dates: Multiple dates available: July 8 – July 11 / July 15 – July 18 / July 22 – July 25 / Aug. 5 – Aug. 8 / Aug. 12 – Aug. 15 / Aug. 19 – Aug. 22

Price: $395 for 4 days

Hours: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (groups may not return until 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. on rafting days, which are typically Wednesdays)

Ages: 8 – 15

Your kiddos will learn team building and gain appreciation for Central Oregon’s waterways at this four-day paddle sport and adventure camp from Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe. They’ll engage in fun water-based activities like paddle boarding, kayaking, and rafting – they’ll even learn how to sail on Elk Lake!

Plus, you can rest easy knowing that all Tumalo Creek instructors are certified by the American Canoe Association (ACA).

CALL OUT: Whitewater Kayaking Camp is also available June – August. Click here for more information.

2. SummerKids by Camp Fire Central Oregon

Location: 1001 SW Emkay Drive #100, Bend, OR 97702

Dates: Multiple dates available depending on theme:

• Under the Sea: June 17 – June 21
• Time Travelers: June 24 – June 28
• Survivor Camp (3 Days Only): July 1 – July 3
• Real Life Superheroes (1 Day Only): July 5
• Under the Big Top: July 8 – July 12
• Mad Science: July 15 – July 19
• Through the Stage Door: July 22 – July 26
• Welcome to the Jungle: July 29 – Aug. 2
• Wonderful World of Wizardry: Aug. 5 – Aug. 9
• 3-2-1 Blast Off: Aug. 12 – Aug. 16

Price: 1-day programs: $40 – $45 / 3-day programs: $120 – $135 / 5-day programs: $185 – $210

See specific prices by theme and age.

Hours: 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Ages: Kindergarten – 6^th grade

Designed for working families, these theme-based camps will keep your kids busy during the work week (Monday – Friday). They’ll get to participate in movement activities, science investigations, and arts and crafts – all while increasing their environmental awareness.

Special guest speakers and performances are a fun bonus, and 5^th and 6^th graders will participate in special trips at least once a week!

3. Camp Tamarack

Location: 30901 SW Forest Service Road, Sisters, OR 97759

Dates: June 25 – Aug. 23, 2019

Price: Prices range from $285 – $495

Hours: Start registration to see options.

Ages: 8 – 13

Camp Tamarack has been perfecting its week-long camping experience for the last 83 years. A rotating afternoon activities schedule filled with paddle boarding, snorkeling, ceramics, archery, scavenger hunts, hiking, and exploration will ensure your child never grows bored. Note that Camp Tamarack is just outside of Bend – a short 30ish-minute drive!

NOTE: Camp Tamarack also offers Adventure Team camp exclusively to older campers (ages 12 – 13). This camp features activities like rock climbing, swimming, and crafting, as well as off-site adventures and an overnight backpacking trip. Available July 7 – Aug. 23, 2019 at a cost of $495 per week.

4. All Sports Camp at Cascade Indoor Sports

Location: 20775 NE High Desert Lane, Bend, OR 97701

Dates: Summer 2019 dates to be announced

Price: Summer prices to be announced, but likely on par with spring break session rates (4-hour session: $40 / 4-day session: $140)

Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Ages: 1^st grade – 5^th grade

Your elementary schoolers will have almost 50,000 square feet to explore at this sports camp located inside Central Oregon’s premier indoor sports facility. Designed for both boys and girls, this camp will keep your kids active while teaching them the basics of sports like soccer, football, and skating.

5. Youth Camps at the Athletic Club of Bend

Location: 61615 Athletic Club Drive, Bend, OR 97702

Dates: Multiple dates available depending on type of camp:

• Tennis: June 17 – June 21 / July 22 – July 26 / Junior Tennis: Aug. 19 – Aug. 23
• Great Outdoors: June 24 – June 28 / July 29 – Aug. 2
• Stars and Stripes: July 1 – July 3
• Wet and Wild: July 8 – July 12 / Aug. 5 – Aug. 9
• Multi-Sport: July 15 – July 19 / Aug. 12 – Aug. 16
• Send Off to Summer: Aug. 26 – Aug. 30

Price: $57 per day (save $4 per day when you register for a full week)

Hours: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Ages: 6 – 12 years

Sign your child up for one of the youth camps at the Athletic Club of Bend for a five-day adventure consisting of games, fitness activities, group tennis lessons, crafts, and swimming. They’ll even get to participate in field trips on several Fridays!

Registration for this sports-based summer camp begins April 17, 2019 for club members and May 1, 2019 for non-members.

NOTE: Creativity-based explorer camps (ages 3 – 6) and adventure-based “caravan” camps (ages 10 – 14) are available as well. Learn more here.

6. Youth Team Camp at Bend Endurance Academy

Location: 442 NE 3^rd Street, Bend, OR 97701

Dates: July 1 – July 3, 2019

Price: $360

Hours: 7 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Ages: 8 – 11

Does your little one have previous climbing experience? If they’re looking to take their skills outdoors, look no further than this three-day camp from Bend Endurance Academy. Climbers will learn how to correctly tie knots, belay, rappel, and even get to boulder on real rocks outdoors!

NOTE: If you have an advanced lead climber age 13 or older, consider the academy’s Advanced Rock Craft camp. They’ll learn everything they need to know about single and multi-pitch climbs.

7. Bend FC Timbers Summer Camp

Location: Big Sky Park, Field 4, 145 NE Revere Avenue, Suite 6, Bend, OR 97701

Dates: July 15 – 18 / July 22-25

Price: Full day: $160 / Half day: $100

Hours: Full day: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. / Half day: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Age: 5 – 12 years

This four-day soccer camp is led by Bend FC Timbers’ coaching directors, staff, and even current and former players. Your child will learn the skills they need to get comfortable with the ball by participating in dribbling, shooting, and receiving drills, as well as by playing games. They’re sure to leave exhausted but happy!

8. Summer Horse Day Camps at Diane’s Riding Place

Location: 65535 Cline Falls Highway, Bend, OR 97701

Dates: Multiple dates available for regular camp hours:

June 24 – June 28 / July 1 – July 5 / July 8 – July 12 / July 22 – July 26 / July 29 – Aug. 2 / Aug. 12 – Aug. 16 / Aug. 19 – Aug. 23 / Aug. 26 – Aug. 30

Multiple dates available for extended camp hours:

June 17 – June 21 / July 15 – July 19 / Aug. 5 – Aug. 9

Price: Regular camp hours: $350 / Extended camp hours: $475

Hours: Regular camp hours: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. / Extended camp hours: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Ages: 7 – 16

This summer day camp will help your little equestrian build self-confidence and independence as they learn how to feed, lead, groom, bridle, saddle up, and ride. Open to riders of all skill levels, this camp is sure to be the highlight of your child’s summer.

9. Girls Summer Camp at Central Oregon Gymnastics Academy

Location: 63060 Layton Ave, Bend, OR 97701

Dates: Several dates available:

July 9 – July 11 / July 16 – July 18 / July 23 – July 25 / July 30 – Aug. 1 / Aug. 6 – Aug. 8 / Aug. 13 – Aug. 15

Price: 1 camp: $175 / 2 – 4 camps: $165 each / 5+ camps: $155 each

Hours: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. (Tuesday – Thursday)

Ages: 6+

This camp, brought to you by the Central Oregon Gymnastics Academy, is all the training your gymnast needs to advance to the next level. Each day includes 2.5 hours of gymnastics instruction followed by an hour and a half of fun games and activities.

Classes are available to all skill levels from beginner to pre-team, and a 6-to-1 ratio of campers to instructors guarantees that your daughter will get the personalized attention she deserves.

IMPORTANT NOTE: There is no tots class or open gym available during summer programs. If you need a sitter for your other kiddos during this time, check out SnappySitters.com.

10. Music Flow Summer Day Camps

Location: The Fellowship at Bend (TFAB) – 21530 NE Butler Market Rd, Bend OR 97701

Dates: Week 1 will be Mon 7/8, Wed 7/10, and Fri 7/12
Week 2 will be Mon 7/15, Wed 7/17, and Fri 7/19

Price: $200

Hours: 9AM-1PM each day

Ages: Recommended for 6 – 12 yrs (special requests considered)

Fun and motivating instructors teach interactive music. Kids will learn music basics, be introduced to different instruments (ukulele, keyboard, voice, guitar) and make music with fellow students. Activities include ear training, musical games, group songwriting, rhythm work and performance. This is the perfect camp if you want to expose your kids to music in an interactive, exploratory way.

11. Camp Courage at Partners of Care

Location: 2075 NE Wyatt Court, Bend, OR 97701

Dates: July 22 – 25, 2019

Price: Free (registration required)

Hours: 2019 hours to be announced

Ages: Not specified

If your child is grieving the loss of a beloved family member or friend, look no further than this free, four-day summer art camp. Your child will be given the opportunity to explore while learning how to express their feelings of loss through various types of art projects. This healing environment was even recommended by Jenni O’Keefe, creator of award-winning film Children and Grief.

NOTE: Click here to download the registration form for Camp Courage. Call (541) 382-5882 for more information.

 

7 Fun-Filled Spring Break Activities for Kids in Bend

Parents’ Guide to Spring Break Activities

Spring break is just around the corner. Before you know it, your kids will be hopping off the bus and bursting through your front door, ready to dive into a week full of laughter and adventure.

Luckily, there’s no shortage of activities for you and your little ones during spring break in Bend, Oregon. Here are 7 fun-filled activities to occupy your time!

1. Family Fun at Cascade Indoor Sports

Location: 20775 High Desert Lane, Bend, OR 97701

Roller Skating
Central Oregon’s premier indoor sports facility offers 50,000 square feet of family fun. Open skate is available to roller skaters of all ages Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. You’ll be entertained by races, musical numbers, and games like the Limbo!

Open Skate Hours: Friday and Saturday nights: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. / Saturday and Sunday daytime: 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Price: General admission: $10 / Admission with personal skates: $7 / Kids ages 5 – 8: $7 / Kids ages 4 and under: free

The Big Play Thing
Also check out the area’s largest indoor soft play system: The Big Play Thing! The Big Play Thing features 7,000+ square feet of slides, tubes, bridges, and foam forests where your children can climb, slide, and play their spring break away.

The play place is designed for children ages 4 and older, though younger children are welcome with your assistance.

Open Climb Hours: Monday – Friday: 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. / Saturday: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. / Sunday: 12:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.

*Also open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Price: $5 per child (free for parents)

2. Kids Night Out at Mountain Air Trampoline Park

Location: 20495 Murray Road, Suite 150, Bend, OR, 97701 

Drop your kids off at Bend’s leading indoor trampoline park the first Friday of spring break. Open to kids ages 4 – 12, Kids Night Out provides your kiddos with 3 hours of jump time for just $24 – plus pizza and a drink!

The park’s staff is well-trained and CPR-certified, so you can rest easy knowing your children are in good hands.

Hours: Friday nights: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Price: $24 for 3 hours

NOTE: The park is open every day of the week, so you have plenty of options if Friday nights don’t work out. See regular hours here or learn about toddler time for little tykes!

3. 10 Barrel Snow Beach + Live Music at Mt. Bachelor

Location: West Village Base, 13000 SW Century Drive, Bend, OR 97702

Date: Saturday, March 23, 2019

Hours: 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Celebrate spring break with live music and games at Mt. Bachelor. Your children will love playing giant Jenga, giant cornhole, Polish horseshoes, and snow croquet.

After you’ve worked up an appetite, devour delicious food in the snow outside of West Village Lodge. Then relax with some live music! Blackstrap Bluegrass plays from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. and Flipside Funk plays from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Price: Call 541-382-1709 for pricing and other information.

NOTE: This “Zero Waste” festival will only offer items that are recyclable or compostable. You are encouraged to bring your own reusable cups!

4. Attractions at Sun Mountain Fun Center

Location: 300 NE Bend River Mall Drive, Bend, OR 97703

This family-friendly entertainment center offers something for everyone. Whether your kids are into bowling, arcade games, bumper cars, or billiards, they’ll find it here!

The fun center also offers outdoor attractions such as go karts, mini golf, batting cages, and carnival rides (weather permitting). We recommend calling the center prior to your arrival to see which activities are available for your spring break adventure.

Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. / Friday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Price: Varies by activity
Bowling: $3.75 per game + $2.50 shoe rental per person / Bumper cars: $2.50 / Billiards: $8.00 per hour / Arcade: Assorted pricing (varies by machine)

Just because your kids are off the clock doesn’t mean you are. If you need a sitter to take care of your children while you maintain your 9-5, we’ve got you covered! SnappySitters is the easiest way to find safety-screened, mom-approved babysitters in Bend. Simply register as a parent to find qualified sitters near you!

5. Kids Camp School’s Out – Spring Break at High Desert Museum

Location: 59800 South Highway 97, Bend, OR, 97702

Nature Photography Spring Break Camp (4^th and 5^th Grade)

Date: March 25 – March 28, 2019

Hours: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Your fourth or fifth grader will learn the basics of digital photography at this four-day spring break camp. The museum will provide the cameras and the stunning backdrops for your child’s photos. Plus, this camp includes three full-day field trips!

Price: $206.25 (Price with extended care: $262.50) 

Mad Scientist Spring Break Camp (2^nd and 3^rd Grade)

Date: March 25 – March 28, 2019 

Hours: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Your second or third grader will learn about the elements through various chemistry experiments at this four-day spring break camp.

Price: $206.25 (Price with extended care: $262.50)

6. Rock Climbing at Bend Rock Gym

Location: 1182 SE Centennial Court, Bend, OR 97702

Do you have a novice climber in the family? Use spring break as an opportunity to help them learn the basics and reach their full climbing potential at Central Oregon’s premier indoor climbing facility.

There is no minimum age for children, though kids must weigh at least 30 pounds to use the gym’s auto belays. To boulder, children must be at least 10 years old with an active spotter.

Your supervision is required if your children are under 14 years old.

Hours: Monday – Friday: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. / Saturday – Sunday: 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Price: Varies by day and age. Day passes, punch cards, and memberships are available. See all pricing info here.

7. Swimming at Juniper Swim & Fitness Center

Location: 800 NE 6th Street, Bend, OR 97701

Your kids will have a blast swimming and splashing in Juniper Swim and Fitness Center’s 25-meter indoor pool. Teach them how to dive from one of two diving boards or relax together in the facility’s hot tub.

See weekly fitness and swim schedules for your spring break adventure here.

Hours: Monday – Friday: 5:15 a.m. – 9 p.m. / Saturday: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. / Sunday: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Price: Prices depend on the pass type you choose and whether you live inside or outside the Bend Parks and Recreation District. See the different pass types available here.

 

Spring Break Day Camps in Bend, Oregon

Spring Break for Bend-La Pine Schools is March 25-29, 2019

We’re talking about Spring Break in January? Yes! We wanted to help take some of the panic and guesswork out of finding the perfect day camp for Spring Break. Why? Camps fill up quickly and the sooner you know about them the better chance you have of enrolling your kids in the camps that interest them most, so they are occupied and engaged. We’re not making this up either, The Wildlife Investigation program is already sold out at the High Desert Museum.

Spring Break camps are a great way for your kids to stay busy, meet new friends, explore new activities, learn independence, and have fun. Our list of Spring Break camps in Bend, Oregon is not exclusive, so if you know of other camps, share them with us. Some of these camps aren’t for a full day, if you need help filling in the gaps Snappy Sitters can help. Our sitters can pick up or drop off to camps and babysit until you get home.

Camp Fire Central Oregon
Kindergarten – 6^th Grade, 230 NE 9^th St., $55 per day

Each day is a worldly exploration to explore new places and cultures while staying in Bend. Includes fun games, engaging activities, and plenty of opportunities to explore and apply a growth mindset.

Bend Parks and Recreation
Ages vary from 5-15, various locations and prices, see calendar for details

Lots of different day camps available including: KPOV Radio Camp, The Gaming Academy, Video Game Design, 3D Game Design, and Westside Village Spring Break Adventure Camp.

High Desert Museum
Kindergarten – 5th Grade, High Desert Museum, $206.25 for the week

Programs vary by age, kingergarten through first grade is about Wildlife Investigation (this is sold out, waiting list only), second and third graders step into the laboratory in the Mad Scientist program and fourth and fifth graders explore Nature Photography.

Tula Movement Arts
Ages 3-12, Tula Movement Arts, $140 for the full week, $35 drop-in

Little ones from three to six explore moving joyfully with movement and action packed days full of imaginative play. Older kids, five to 12, enter Circus Ninja Camp where they explore slacklining, acroyoga, juggling, hooping and aerial yoga (aerial hammock). Both camps end with an information performance for families on Friday.

Wildheart Nature School
Ages 5-12, Skyliner Lodge, $57 per day

Each day of camp is a new adventure as kids learn a new story that teaches them about the earth and themselves. Day one is “Witches and Wizards,” day two is “Hobbit & Faerie Hunters,” day three is “Survivors,” day four is “Unicorn Whisperers,” and the week wraps up with “Mythic Mermaids and Mermen.”

Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas

20 No Stress, Last Minute Elf on the Shelf Ideas + Reasons Why Elf Didn’t Move

 

It’s that time of year. The elf on the shelf is back!

If you’ve done this before you know the routine. It starts off super fun and you get creative. You’ve got your elf roasting a marshmallow over tea light candles, frozen in a block of ice by Elsa from Frozen, and you’ve posted your elf in a super cute kissing booth surrounded by Hershey’s kisses.

Then after the first or second week you wake up in a cold sweat because you forgot about that Elf on the Shelf. In a panic trying to have Elf be a snow angel in sprinkles, they dump all over the floor. Your kitchen looks like a holiday fairy spontaneously combusted and you hold back a swear because you know if you utter one F-bomb or even a damnit, it’ll be the first word your two year old won’t stop saying.

We know how you feel. That’s why we did some research for you and put together some great, simple ideas to keep the Elf on the Shelf fun for everyone.

And, if you forget to move Elf we know just what to tell your kiddos. See our list of excuses at the end.

1. Stuck in a Cup

Photo: Andiamo

2. Captured

Photo: Jennifer Saintz Photography

3. Worst Cookies Ever

4. Hiding in the Fridge

Photo: New Mercies

5. Elf on Strike

6. Stuck in Toilet Paper

7. Reading a Book

Photo: A Thrifty Mom

8. Napping in Tissue Box

9. Stuck in the Blinds

10. Egg Face Shenanigans

11. Elf Makes Bananas Minions

Photo: Stacy Molter, Fancy Shanty

12. Peeking at Gifts

Photo: MyFrugalAdventures.com

13. Elf Sleeps in a Sock

Photo: Lemons and Laughs

14. Elf Gets Stuck

Photo: Crystals and Comp

15. Caught in Candy Bag

Photo: A Life Examined

16. Elf Hydration

17. Elf Grows Tall

18. Elf Rides Roller Coaster

Photo: Dana Manrose

19. Elf Rides Dinosaur

Photo: Snippets from Suburbia

20. Elf Says Goodbye

Photo: She Knows

21. Elf Forgot to Move

Don’t panic if you forgot to move Elf! We’ve got you covered. Here are a few excuses to use if you need them:

1. Elf is exhausted, he/she must have needed a break.
2. Uh oh! Elf must be stuck. Lets give him/her a little more time to move. We’ll see what happens tonight.
3. Do you think Elf forgot he/she was there yesterday?
4. I bet Elf ate a bunch of cookies and couldn’t move.
5. Maybe he/she moved just an arm to try and trick you.