Is there anything more delightful than decorating one’s home with autumn’s rich colors? With these easy DIY crafts, kids can enjoy bringing a touch of festive fun to the household! AUTUMN FELT GARLAND These easy garlands add a cozy touch when strung across the mantle or around a sunny window. STEP 1: Purchase a set […]
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.
Posted inBend Nest
Show Some Puppy Love
Adoption and foster care aren’t the only ways to share the love at the Humane Society of Central Oregon
Looking for something fun and rewarding to do with the kids this fall? You might want to consider volunteering at the Humane Society of Central Oregon in Bend. There are many ways to get involved, with just about any level of commitment that works for you. One of the HSCO’s most popular programs for kids […]
Posted inBest of the Nest
Best of the Nest 2025
The votes are in and the winners are here!
The votes are tallied and the winners are here! Thanks to the hundreds of readers who voted. We are proud to announce the best businesses that deliver the gold standard to families and children in our community. Cheers! Click here to view the winners!
Posted inExpert Q&A
Expert Q & A: Sean Minnard, co-founder of Apogee Bend
Q: How has education changed over the years in this country? What have teachers and parents learned regarding how children thrive best in the school environment? A: Unfortunately, traditional education hasn’t changed. Public and private schools still focus heavily on academics and don’t focus on the whole human or preparing kids to be future adults. […]
Posted inFamily Time
Always a Good Time
Family Outdoor Summer Festivals Guide
Nothing says summer like packing up the cooler and heading out to a festival. Although Central Oregon is famous for hosting some of the best music and special events festivals, with kids in tow, it’s a whole different ball game. Before you go, knowing what to expect and what to bring can ensure your family […]
Posted inFamily Time
Chill Out!
Kid-Friendly Frozen Treats to Make at Home
These easy-to-make frozen treats are a two-for-one win – providing a fun, engaging kitchen project on the one hand, while enjoying what you made the next day. Made with simple ingredients that you likely have on hand, these recipes require nothing more than mixing, a bit of blending, dipping and freezing – minimal effort for […]
Posted inEducation
Oregon Proposes Crackdown on Smart Phones in Schools
A proposed bill, HB 2251, could further restrict student cell phone use
A proposed bill in the Oregon legislature aims to restrict the use of cell phones in schools statewide. The bipartisan bill is intended to cut down on student distractions, social media incidents and other limitations schools are grappling with in an age of cell phone addiction. While Central Oregon school districts already have certain policies in […]
Posted inCalendar
BendNest Calendar: Summer 2025
Events for kiddos this summer!
Wednesdays Bend Farmers Market LOCAL – Showcasing 100% Oregon-produced goods, this family-friendly event features food, drinks, flowers, crafts and more. Saturdays from 3-7pm. Brooks Alley, Downtown Bend | Free bendfarmersmarket.com In-Depth Nighttime Visit LEARN – Seek the stars at the nation’s largest collection of publicly accessible telescopes. Two-hour sessions include an educational presentation, night sky […]
Posted inBest of the Nest
Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play
Best Kids Yoga
Interview with Rachel Augustine, Co-Owner Will you tell us a little about your kids’ yoga program? Kids yoga has been at the heart of Free Spirit since we opened in 2019. As a mom, longtime yoga teacher and someone with a background in art and design, I created the program to help kids grow into […]
Posted inBest of the Nest
Mudpies and Lullabies
Best Preschool
Interview with Alissa Guthrie, Co-Owner Mudpies and Lullabies has been a mainstay in Bend for a long time. What is the history of the school? Yes, Mudpies and Lullabies has been a mainstay of early childhood education in Bend for almost 30 years! Founded by Anne Williams on the belief that children learn best through […]