Bullying remains a pressing issue for children and adolescents, despite the best efforts of parents, teachers and administrators. Sadly, many students still face harassment from their peers, both in person and online. According to the CDC, “Bullying is common. About one in five high school students reported being bullied on school property in the past […]
Nicole Blume
Posted inNest Feature
Right Here in Our Backyard
Bend restaurants committed to environmentally friendly practices
How lucky are we to experience mother nature’s incredible beauty right here in Central Oregon? We often take it for granted, but there is a delicate balance that’s important to help preserve for generations to come. As parents, we have the power to make conscious consumer choices that align with the goal of long-term ecological […]
Posted inParenting
It Takes a Village
Supporting Children Through
Deep Loss
Recently, a young local family lost their father in a tragic mountain biking accident. I am writing this piece in honor of his family to provide resources for friends or families who are mourning. As parents, we often try to shield our children from the deeper sorrows in life. We do everything in our power […]
Posted inTrending
Certified Heroes
Pets in our community make a difference by giving blood
Since January is officially National Blood Donor Month, according to the American Red Cross, there’s no better time to consider saving a life—not just for people, but for our animal friends, too. Like humans, pets can experience both chronic medical conditions and emergencies that require blood transfusions. Cancer, anemia, autoimmune disorders like hemolytic anemia or […]
Posted inKid's Corner
Simply Beautiful
Easy pinecone crafts for the holidays
When the snow falls and the kids start complaining of boredom, try whipping out some engaging crafts to fuel their imaginations. Per usual, nature provides the best resources and inspiration for art, while also not breaking the bank when it comes to cost. For these simple, kid-friendly crafts, look no further than the humble pinecone. […]
Posted inEducation
Let’s Get Moving
Kinesthetic reading activities make learning fun
Back to school is an exciting time for families, but it can also be when academic anxiety sets in. After a long, carefree summer, switching gears to tests and homework can feel like a big shift. For families with elementary-aged children, now is the perfect time to practice active reading skills at home. Parental involvement […]
Posted inKid's Corner
Preserving the Beauty
Beeswax dipped leaves add autumn décor to the home
Who doesn’t love frolicking in the falling leaves of the season? Alas, the beauty of autumn is ephemeral. Leaves crumble and disappear, leaving bare branches behind. With this fun and creative kids’ craft, however, you can keep the magic of the season alive by preserving beautiful autumn leaves in all-natural beeswax! Colorful leaves make a […]
Posted inParenting
It’s a Magical World
The Power of Imaginary Play
While summer vacation conjures dreamy images of family time and no homework, all parents know that keeping kids entertained throughout the break is no easy task. Without the daily routine of school and extracurricular activities, it’s easy for children to complain of boredom. Furthermore, in this age of smartphones and digital devices, it’s even easier […]
Posted inKid's Corner
Traditional Baskets
Create a traditional reed basket for spring!
As spring blooms around us, we’re called to move outdoors and smell the flowers – literally! Whether collecting beautiful plants on a nature walk or preparing for an egg collecting adventure on Easter, you can bring the season to life with this sweet DIY basket-making craft for kids. In addition to being useful for carrying […]
Posted inHoliday
The Year of the Dragon
Celebrating the Lunar New Year
Celebrated by millions of people around the world, Lunar New Year is popular in East Asia, Southeast Asia and the Middle East, as well as in many Asian American communities worldwide. The holiday marks the beginning of the new year based on a lunisolar calendar, which follows the phases of the sun and moon, and […]