Nothing quite kicks off the holiday season like a hot spiced drink. Sure, it’s easy to pick up a carton at the grocery store, but just remember, specialness is worth it. Eggnog Generally speaking, there are two camps when it comes to this festive holiday drink, but what’s not to enjoy about this creamy, egg-y, […]
Bend Nest
Bend Nest is a place to discuss, consider and laugh about all that parenting brings. A quarterly magazine produced by some of the finest writers, editors and photographers in Central Oregon, Bend Nest is smart and informed.
Nurturing Every Learner
Every parent wants their child’s educational experience to be smooth sailing, but for some, it can be more challenging than for others. If your young student struggles with learning or has been diagnosed with a disability, getting an Individualized Education Program in place is one way to improve their school experience. Sean Reinhart, Executive Director […]
Ringing in the New Year!
Whether you couldn’t find a sitter for New Year’s Eve or you’re just not up for going out, you can still have a fun, kid-friendly celebration. The key is to keep the kids occupied with fun activities as the clock counts down. We’ve gathered a few family friendly ideas to help make it a memorable […]
BendNest Bookshelf: Just SNOW Already!
Written and illustrated by Howard McWilliam What would you do if your family said it might snow today? Build a snowman? Go sledding? One boy is excited to play outside and puts on his snow clothes: “Nothing is as fun as snow!” It’s cold but it’s not snowing…yet. The boy looks out his window. Nothing. […]
BendNest Bookshelf: Jo Jo Makoons: Snow Day
By Dawn Quigley. Illustrated by Tara Audibert First-grader Jo Jo is seven years old and lives on the Pembina Ojibwe Nation. When she goes to school, she’s excited about journaling and embraces the health assignment. As she says, “Raisins are just very thirsty grapes.” When it starts to snow at bus time everyone is ready […]
Traditional Craft
Long before store-bought toys, parents around the world made creative, homemade playthings for children. Here in the Americas, many indigenous peoples used natural materials sourced from the land to craft lovely toys treasured among generations. One such iconic toy is known as the “corn husk doll.” When properly dried, corn husks could be weaved into […]
It’s Time to Talk About E-Bikes
Central Oregon loves bicycles. Bikes give people a sense of freedom and independence, and with the growing necessity of environment-friendly transportation, the popularity of bicycles and bike riding is booming. The benefits are numerous and include reduced air/noise pollution, savings on fuel costs and less congestion on roadways. And let’s not forget the positive physical […]
BendNest Bookshelf: Fall
Friends Beyond Measure By Lalena Fisher What happens when you meet a new friend and think the fun will last forever? “It started the day we met.” Two new friends are busy making fairy tea, reading graphic novels, teaching chickens to sit, doing puppet shows, Claymation, making Halloween adventures, jumping on a trampoline and playing […]
Getting a Jump Start
These educational and career paths options include: Honors Classes: These classes are for those students whose skills, abilities and interests are exemplary. In general, honors classes progress more quickly, cover more material and go into more depth than standard classes. Advanced Placement: These rigorous courses are college-level offerings tied to national curricula, require special teacher […]
Health Expert Q&A
Q:Recently, my six-year-old fell off a garden wall and hit his head. He’s still complaining of a headache a couple days later. Should I take him to the emergency room? A: If your child is still complaining of a headache a couple days later, they should be seen by your primary care physician or a […]

