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 inOutdoors
They’ll Be Hooked
Family Fishing Holes in Central Oregon
Central Oregon is blessed with numerous beautiful, healthy bodies of water, many of which are world renown fishing spots. Our rivers like the Deschutes, Crooked, Metolius and the McKenzie, not to mention over 150 lakes, streams and ponds, all have their own distinct ecosystem. Introducing children to the great outdoors and these ecosystems opens up […]
Posted inHealth
Taking Action
What every parent should know about burn first aid
Summer fun means time outdoors with sunshine, barbecues and adventures, but it also brings an increased risk of burn injuries. Between sunburns, holiday fireworks, campfires and grills, accidents can happen when you least expect it. That’s why it’s critical for families to educate themselves on best practices for burn first aid and prepare with a […]
Posted inTrending
The Hood River Fruit Loop
Delicious adventure for the whole familly
Last year, when my family took a road trip to the Hood River Fruit Loop, we were hooked. In fact, after filling our bags with fresh apples, pears and other fresh goodies, the trip became an instant annual tradition. For those unfamiliar with the Hood River Fruit Loop, it is a scenic 35-mile route running […]
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 […]
