Collective Voices Creating Change
Inspired by a sense of social justice and advocacy for change, many high school students across Bend are coming together to roll up their sleeves and get busy. Through the diverse clubs at local high schools, students are working toward a common goal of creating an inclusive, welcoming environment which supports differences and forms bridges…
A Heart Warming Escape
As the winter season arrives, bringing cold gusts of wind and snow, there’s nothing like finding creative ways to keep warm. One of the best ways to seek the heat and beat the winter blues is to enjoy a sizzling hot sauna! The word “sauna” comes from the Finnish language, meaning “bathhouse.” (Fun fact: “sauna”…
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…
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…
Editor’s Note Winter 2023
We are rounding the corner, headed into the holidays! For many, this is a joyous time of year, but for others, the holidays can be difficult. For our family, this will be a different kind of Christmas without my dear dad, who passed away this year. However, there is much to celebrate this season, as…
It’s a Snow Day!
Many may remember “Snowmaggedon of 2017”, as well as the winter of 2019, which also had a considerable amount of snow. In fact, February 25, 2019 ranks fifth on the all-time list of daily snowfall in Bend! We may not get quite as much snow this season, but more often than not the city transforms…
Have Yourself a Merry Little Toddler
If jam-packed stores and the holiday hustle bring out your inner Grinch, imagine how your toddler will feel. Your agitation is sure to trickle down to your child. She may already be tired out from coping with schedule changes and new experiences—not to mention being expected to smile for photos, graciously open gifts on demand…
Let’s Take it Outside this Year
If your child was born in a winter month, you’ve probably already thrown a birthday bash or two at the many indoor places in Bend, from Tula Movement Arts and the Big Indoor Play Thing, to Mountain Air and Trampoline Zone. While these businesses offer wonderful cost-effective birthday packages, sometimes it’s nice to mix it…
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…
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…
Health Expert Q&A
Q: Like clockwork, my twelve-year-old son gets sick during the winter. He usually comes down with a fever and sore throat and then develops a terrible cough. Because he misses a lot of school, he gets very stressed about catching up. I wonder if you have any prevention advice for us this year. A: The…
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.…
Hot & Homemade
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,…
