ML Interest Tag: foster-parent

30 Positive Things to Say to Kids (Especially When They Need a Boost)

by Leah R. Singer

Sometimes, saying “I’m proud of you” can make all the difference

When you become a parent, you pick up the basics pretty quickly. It’s figuring out how to raise happy and confident kids that can be a challenge as the years go on. What we do know is that positive words for kids will go a long way to help boost their confidence and change their day for the better—sometimes it’s words of encouragement, and sometimes it’s just a simple “I love you.” In that spirit, here are 30 positive things to say to kids.

mom smiling at daughter
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1. You make me smile. Telling your kiddo they make you happy is one thing. But telling them they're the reason for your smile will give them happiness and a sense of pride that'll stick around all day.

2. Your words matter. The old saying "sticks and stones" isn't entirely accurate. Let your kids know that words have power.

3. Tell me one good thing that happened today. Focusing on the positive helps keep the bad stuff at bay.

4. Tell me one bad thing that happened today. It’s important to talk about the bad stuff too.

5. I'm proud of you for doing XYZ. When kids hear that someone is proud of them, it has a big impact on them. Think of one positive thing, and tell your little one about it.

Related: The Only 2 Things to Say to Your Kid after a Game

mom hugging her daughter
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6. Mistakes happen. Kids are a messy business, and they may ruin the nice stuff you own. But what's more important—material things (just keep the priceless china stashed away) or your kids knowing they can come to you when they make a mistake? That knowledge that you love them unconditionally goes a long way in life.

7. How are you? Asking your kiddo how she feels shows that you are interested in them. Brandi Russell, a pediatric occupational therapist, and parenting coach recommends checking in with your little ones just as you would a spouse or friend.

8. What would you do? This is a great response to kids always asking for help with things. Empower them while giving yourself a break. You may not think much of it now, but that empowerment goes a long way as they grow older.

9. What nice thing did you do or say today? Encourage kindness by reinforcing it daily.

10. Nothing will change my love for you. This phrase may seem self-evident, but sometimes kids need you to state the obvious. Rebecca Eans, the bestselling author of Positive Parenting, believes you can't go wrong with this loving reminder.

Related: 20 Empowering Things to Say to Your Daughter Every Day

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11. Don’t let mean people define who you are. There will always be bullies in life. This simple phrase helps kids know that negative voices are not the most important, and it's a lesson they can remember as they encounter difficult people as teens and adults.

12. I like it when you … Even when the kids are driving you crazy, there’s always at least one thing they did that made you smile.

13. Please. If we want respect as parents, then we need to show that same behavior to our kids. Dr. John DeGarmo, a national foster parent coach, advocates parents should always say "please" and "thank you" to model respectful behavior.

14. Clean up your toys, dishes, or whatever is left out. Encourage kids to take ownership of cleaning up their belongings, says Maureen Healy, author of Growing Happy Kids. Even if it’s just one or two items a day, it will help you in the long run.

15. That’s smart thinking. Sometimes hearing you’re smart is even more powerful than telling a kid she looks cute. That early feeling of being called intelligent is sometimes one of the memories kids remember most as they grow.

Related: 11 Important Things Dads Should Say to Their Sons

dad spending time with daughter
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16. I like you. Kids may hear the words “I love you” regularly, but do they know you like them too?

17. I’m proud of you. They know you love them. But do they know you’re proud of them too? Author, and clinical psychologist, Dr. Sherrie Campbell believes those words are just as important as affirmations of love to kids.

18. Thank you. Social skills and courtesy are important in the home and outside of it, and they are skills that go through adulthood.

19. I’m sorry. We all lose our temper or make mistakes. Dr. Alison Mitzner, a pediatric specialist, believes what’s important is how we react.

20. Just be yourself. Teach your kids they’re enough, and they never have to be anyone else.

Related: 10 Things to Say About Yourself in Front of Your Kid

mom and son starting the day with postivity
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21. I love being with you. Amy McCready is a parenting educator who believes encouraging words and phrases go a long way to help your kids feel safe and secure. Telling your little one how you love being with them is a great positive affirmation they'll never tire of hearing.

22. Do your best. It’s not about the result. It’s about how you get there.

23. Always tell the truth, even if it’s not great. The sooner kids know you’ll still love them after hearing the truth—even if it’s not great—the more truthful they’ll be as they grow.

24. I'm listening. What do you want to say? According to Katie Hurley, LCSW, 57% of girls say they don’t always tell their parents certain things because they don’t want their parents to think badly of them. Show your kids you do care what they have to say by demonstrating you want to listen to them share information with you.

25. You don’t have to eat it. It’s tough to deal with picky eaters. Instead of fighting with your kids to eat their veggies, give them the power to say no and be in control. But don’t provide an alternative meal choice or dessert either.

Related: 7 Things NOT to Say to Your Daughter

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26. You make me happy. Because everyone wants to feel like they matter to someone else.

27. I love you. They may be simple, but Jennifer Wolf, a PCI-certified parent coach, believes there's no substitute for these powerful words.

28. What do you think we should do today? Letting your kids have a say in the day's activities will do a lot to keep them feeling satisfied and valued for more than just a few hours.

29. You make a difference... in life, in the family, and at school. When kids hear they're important, they feel empowered and happier.

30. You were right. To let a child know when they were right (and maybe you were wrong) is empowering. 

 

 

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16 Awesome Instagram Accounts for New & Expecting Moms

by Aimee Della Bitta

If your time on the ‘gram is limited thanks to all that momming, these are the accounts you’ll want to follow. So many smart mamas (medical experts and mom influencers) share advice on baby sleep, feeding kids, body positivity, fitness, fashion and kid-friendly fun during pregnancy and into new motherhood. In our humble opinion, these are the best new mom Instagram accounts offering a healthy dose of humor, relatability and new-mom support, which is exactly what we’re craving right now.

Once you get your Instagram stacked, subscribe to these pregnancy and parenting podcasts.

 

Taking Cara Babies

Cara is a neonatal nurse and certified pediatric sleep consultant who's married to a pediatrician and a mom to four kids. She offers amazing advice on baby sleep with "the science of a nurse and the heart of a mama." Follow for genius advice and lots of laughs from a mom who truly gets it.

The Birds Papaya

Mom of four, writer and speaker Sarah Nicole Landry is the body-confidence advocate and positive, powerful voice we all need in our lives and our social media. She shares it all on her Insta, from disordered eating and divorce to blended families and how to love your body.

Mommy Labor Nurse

The labor and delivery nurse (and mom of two) behind the Mommy Labor Nurse podcast wants to help people have a better birth experience. She shares important info on pregnancy, childbirth and babies along with a healthy dose of hilarious and all-too-relatable memes and quotes. So much good info saved in the highlights too, so don't miss those stories.

 

Kids Eat in Color

For great tips on how to encourage kids to eat healthy foods, and how to stop stressing over what they eat, you need to follow Kids Eat in Color. Jennifer Anderson is a registered dietician nutritionist with a Master of Science in Public Health, and she's also a mom of young kids, so she both gets it and knows how to make it better!

https://www.instagram.com/p/CNvsjWqLJaW/?hidecaption=true

Rookie Moms

From the best postpartum underwear to foods for teething toddlers, Rookie Moms is the mom Instagram account to follow for the practical advice we all need. This feed is filled with #momhacks for the rookies in all of us.

Foster the Family

If you've adopted or fostered a child, or are thinking about it, finding support and encouragement online is a must. Foster the Family's Instagram account offers its audience a constant flow of information and resources on foster care, gospel-centered parenting and mission-focused family. For some children, foster care is a life-saving experience and this 'gram account helps you share in that experience.

Tiffany Darlyn

You may recognize Tiffany Davidson from her popular beauty videos on YouTube, where she also goes by the name Tiffany Darlyn. But on Instagram, she showcases her beautiful family and wise words about mom life, kids, home improvement, travel and much more. 

Shalice Noel

Instagram sensation Shalice Noel has five (yes, five!) kids. But her feed isn't just about managing a family of seven, it includes tips on fashion, home decor, travel and more. She offers how-to videos on how to style everything from your living room to your travel outfit. Shalice has a knack for seeing and sharing all the positives life has to offer.

Mother.ly

The Mother.ly community was born to send expert ideas and mom-to-mom inspiration to women exactly when we need it. This uplifting, online community full of expert tricks of the trade and inspiring stories are exactly what first-time moms should be scrolling through.

Style Fit Fatty

On her Instagram account, Fatima Dedrickson focuses on relationships, fitness, lifestyle, self-care and family. She's also the queen of couples challenges and of getting followers to share hilarious, juicy, relatable stories about their own lives. Trust us, you don't want to miss those.

Something Navy

Arielle Charnas, the New York City-based founder of style blog Something Navy, has been entertaining her followers with fashion advice and editorial content for more than a decade. Now mom to two toddlers, Ruby and Esme, she dedicates space on her Insta to topics like kid-friendly meals and mom life. Follow for a laugh and a behind-the-scenes look at a style icon who feels more like a bestie than an insta-star.

Pregnant Chicken

Pregnant Chicken is the OG mom Instagram account of laugh-out-loud funny spaces for moms-to-be. Amy Morrison, who refers to herself as "the broad behind the burd," built her community on bringing humor to the world of parenting. She keeps it honest and recognizes that it really does take a village and we can all appreciate that.

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Ginger Parrish

Boy mom of three, self-proclaimed hat addict and inspiration to moms everywhere, Ginger Parrish prides herself on making lemonade out of lemons. Her bright Instagram account is a breath of fresh air.

Yummy Toddler Food

Amy Palanjian is a recipe developer dedicated to helping kids (and families) eat well without spending all their time in the kitchen. Her easy recipes and realistic cooking advice make this an account that makes you feel good while helping you eat better. And what's more yummy than that?

Happy Toddler Playtime

If you're trying to entertain toddlers and need endless inspiration, check out mom of three Mandisa's Instagram feed. She offers tips for sensory bins, crafts and early learning, along with tons of daily ideas on how to keep little ones engaged and happy.

Juna Moms

Started by a mom in search of tools she needed while navigating two back-to-back pregnancies of her own, Juna Moms is a multi-faceted community. You can find work-out, nutrition and self-care solutions for every stage of your pregnancy and postpartum on their Instagram page, as well as prenatal and postpartum workouts on the Juna - Pregnancy Exercise app, sage advice from interviews with experts on their podcast and an online space dedicated to women supporting each other on their blog.

RELATED: 10 Pregnancy & Parenting Podcasts to Start Listening to Now

 

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11 Seattle-Area Instagram Accounts You Should Be Following

by Kathryn Mueller

Seattle has an amazing Instagram community of uplifting, inspiring and awesome accounts. Here are some of our local favorites

Are you looking for Instagram inspiration? We tirelessly scrolled through our Instagram feed to bring you a round up Pacific Northwest influencers. These Seattle-area handles will be your go-to guides for things to do, where to play, where to eat in Seattle with kids, and where to book your next travel adventure. Get ready to meet your next Insta-bestie!

The Best Seattle-Based Instagram Accounts You Should Follow

1. @suitcasesinseattle

This PNW mama of two is an amazing resource for the best playgrounds, hikes and kid-friendly adventures Washington has to offer. She posts amazing photos of all the places her family explores and writes honest reviews. We love her positivity, inclusivity and feed full of incredibly bookmark-able material. Your next outing is a follow away!

2. @emmasedition

Emma is a Seattle content creator with a feed full of fashion, lifestyle and beautiful photography—and she’s expecting! Who doesn’t love adorable baby bump pics? Whether you’re looking for outfit ideas or a place to frolic in a field of towering sunflowers, Emma has you covered. Her account is, in a word, gorgeous!

 

3. @hangryforwhat

Honestly, you need Andrea’s tips for tasty eats in your daily feed! Her reels are so good you can practically taste and smell the food. Be warned though, this account comes with serious cravings. Find the best, most unique (and delicious) hidden gems here!

4. @pnw_wanderings

This awesome Pacific Northwest mama has great recommendations for things to do around Seattle with little ones. We love her tips and if you sneak on over to her curated account, @nicks_plate21, the feed is full of the cutest kids’ plates. If you’re like us and your child is a picky eater—this is the account for you. You’ll be making heart shaped waffles and bento boxes in no time.

5. @mamabearintheair

Krista is a mama of 3, and her account is all about navigating the friendly skies with kids—she loves adventures near and far. We love her travel tips and travel hacks. Book your next adventure with @mamabearintheair!

6. @bookoholicmom

Are you always on the look out for a good book? We have the perfect Instagram account for you to follow next. Sara has the best recommendations for picture books. Make room in your library (and feed) for colorful, wonderful, page-turning books.

7. @janetkimtv

Janet Kim is a TV reporter turned PR pro, and we love her feed. She juggles it all—kids, career and adventures. She makes planning outings a breeze with great tips, detailed itineraries and fun ideas for kids (and adults). We also love how kind she is—you’ll regularly see shoutouts on her stories to other amazing PNW mamas.

8. @thriftynwmom

Do you like easy recipes, shopping, travel, family fun and savings? We thought so. Because we do too! Follow along with these two thrifty moms. They have the best local guides insider tips.

9. @rollin.w.spinabifida 

Whitney is one of the most inspiring mamas we know. Her feed is filled with Malachi (her awesome and adorable son). She gives a glimpse into being a wife, caregiver and “medical mom.” And she’s an advocate for more equitable and inclusive communities for children with disabilities. From lifestyle content to travel and self-care, her feed is so good!

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10. @embajkowska

Have you every scrolled through someone’s Instagram feed and had serious photo envy? Yep! Emilia is your photography role model. Her content is breathtaking. Her photos give a beautiful lens into motherhood, and we are here for it.

11. @kathryn_mueller

Editor’s Note: We can’t help but add our very own writer, Katheryn Mueller to this list—she brings so much fun and joy to Instagram while keeping it real. We love how she totally embraces the PNW lifestyle and we can’t get enough of her insider intel when it comes to hikes, wine content, and snow play with kids.

PS: Don’t forget to follow @tinybeanskids for more content crafted perfectly for you! 

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25+ Places to Play Inside on a Rainy Day in PDX

by Melissa Poulin

It’s rainy season here in our favorite Puddle Town, but fear not—we’ve got more than 25 spots to have fun and stay dry

Rain goes with Portland the way peanut butter goes with jelly. From December through April, you can count on lots of wet weather (140 days, on average, to be exact). The simplest way to enjoy the rain with little ones is to put on boots and Muddy Buddies and head out for puddle-jumping through neighborhoods and forests. But if you’re looking for indoor fun, take your pick from our ultimate list of rainy-day activities below. Splash on, Portland!

1. Grab Coffee & Treats around Portland

We’re a caffeinated, food-obsessed city, with artisan coffee shops and bakeries on every corner. Kick things off with an early start at one of these kid-approved breakfast and coffee spots. You’ll want to fuel up for the full day ahead!

 

Slappy Cakes: Start the day at a Portland standby where breakfast is the main attraction and the entertainment. Let your kids make the meal, with griddles set into the table and customizable pancake batters to pour, flip, and top just the way they like.

4246 SE Belmont St.
Portland
Online: slappycakes.com

Pip’s Original Doughnuts & Chai
Tucked into a bustling section of shops on NE Fremont, this gem turns out perfectly crisp mini donuts in tantalizing, constantly-evolving flavors. Pick up a dozen and order a chai for yourself (in a variety of homemade blends), then choose a table near the window to watch the rain fall. There are high chairs for the littlest foodies and kids’ books near the counter to keep ‘em busy while you wait. Be prepared for a line on weekends!

4759 NE Fremont St.
Portland
Online: pipsoriginalonline.com

Posie’s Bakery & Cafe: Looking for a mix of bagels, baked goods, and heartier fare? This homey coffee shop, bakery, and cafe has got the goods, plus a play area in back. If your kid’s been up since 5 a.m. and is ready for lunch by 9, not to worry: the kids’ menu offers grilled cheese, PB&J, and cinnamon toast, with a side of chips or cucumbers.

8208 N Denver Ave.
Portland
Online: posiescafe.com

2. Get Cozy with Books & Bookstores in Portland

Reading is a classic rainy-day activity. Maybe that’s why the rainy City of Roses has one of the most well-used libraries in the country, and a plethora of excellent independent bookstores. Cuddle up with your kids with a pile of books and get lost in a completely different world, through the power of story.

Storytime at the Library: The Multnomah County Library is a national leader among libraries. Besides its large collection of circulating items, it’s well-known for storytimes, with daily offerings geared toward different age groups and in a range of languages. It’s free, fun, and a great way to make new friends– for kids and grown-ups alike. Afterward, stick around to load up your book bag with more books to take home.

Days, times, and age ranges vary by branch
Online: multcolib.org

Powell’s Books: Head downtown to the City of Books—a whole city block with room after room of both used and new volumes. You can snuggle up in the pink room downstairs, where children’s books are organized around a reading area with cozy rugs and low tables with small chairs. A cafe near the yellow room serves up hot drinks and treats. Or, visit one of the smaller (but still impressive) Powell’s branches to get your book fix.

Various Locations
Online: powells.com

Green Bean Books: This children’s bookstore offers weekly storytimes and musical events in multiple languages, in addition to a well-curated selection of kids’ books, all in a bright and cozy red house. Check out their bank of vintage vending machines and bring a stack of books to the green couch to read together.

1600 NE Alberta St.
Online: greenbeanbookspdx.com

Fort Vancouver Community Library: Our neighbors to the north have a great library, too! Hop on the freeway and spend an afternoon exploring the top floor of the Ft. Vancouver Community Library. It’s entirely dedicated to kiddos, with a hands-on learning area, dress-up bins, interactive literacy-focused tech stations, and daily storytimes. You could easily spend hours here. Pop down to the first floor to refuel at the coffee cart. And psst! Multnomah and Washington County residents can get a free Reciprocal Library card to check out materials from the FVRL system.

901 C St.
Vancouver, WA
Online: fvrl.org

3. Explore Fun Animal Encounters around Portland

Rainy day blues got you down? Studies show that even 10 minutes of petting an animal can significantly improve mood and reduce stress. Head to one of these fun spots to get cozy with bunnies and kitties.

The Pixie Project: A no-kill animal rescue and adoption center, The Pixie Project fosters both dogs and cats for adoption. You must make an appointment to visit with the dogs and cats. Consider making a donation with your visit to support this non-profit’s good work.

510 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd.
Portland
Online: pixieproject.org

4. Make & Create Art around Portland

Get creative at one of Portland’s many kid-centric art studios. Check our favorites below.

Vibe Studio: At their locations on both SE Division and in St John’s, Vibe Studio offers a wide range of drop-in creative arts classes for toddlers all the way through the teen years. Check their website for a full list of offerings. (Choosing preschool or youth classes will send you to an online schedule, then click the “drop-in” tab to sort by location.) Most drop-in classes for toddlers are on Friday and Saturday mornings, while older kids can select a class during after-school hours almost every day of the week.

Various Locations
Online: vibestudio.org

Live Laugh Love Art: Guided art classes for makers of all ages, Live Laugh Love Art offers canvas painting, wood signs, pottery, or glass arts. Check out the family pass to make art time a regular thing for you and your kids.

9160 SW Hall Blvd.
Portland
Online: livelaughloveart.com

5. Find Stop-Worthy Lunch & Snacks in Portland

Soro Soro Coffee & Dessert: Kitten cheesecakes, rainbow cakes, animal-themed latte art, and matcha tiramisu? Sign us up! This recently-opened Korean coffee shop serves up seriously cute desserts alongside Stumptown Coffee and Steven Smith Tea. Perfect for a quick sugar rush before you hit the indoor playground.

2250 E Burnside St.
Portland
Online: sorosoropdx.com

Laughing Planet: Dinosaurs at every table, an extensive menu with kid favorites like quesadillas, smoothies, and the “trifecta” of three side dishes served in separate (not touching!) bowls, it’s no surprise that there are 10 Laughing Planet locations in the Portland area. Find one near you and stop in for quick, friendly service and happy kid bellies.

Various Locations
Online: laughingplanet.com

Two Sisters Play Cafe: This Milwaukie bakery and cafe serves up healthy fare (including gluten-free and vegan options) alongside a play room with a play structure, toys, games, and puzzles. Choose from paninis, sandwiches, salads, and a simple kids’ menu, then let the kids loose.

11923 SE McLoughlin Blvd.
Milwaukie, OR
Online: twosistersplaycafe.net

6. All the Places to Run, Jump, and Climb Indoors in Portland

For especially wet days, Portland’s got you covered with a host of indoor parks. We’ve put together a comprehensive list of affordable indoor playspaces in every neighborhood. Here are some of our stand-out favorites.

The Nest: Drop in for open play or take a class at this multi-purpose indoor playground and cafe. A large play structure, soft play area, and a rock-climbing wall are all available during open play hours, recommended for kids 12 and under. Try out yoga or an art class and get free admission to open play. Bring socks to play in, and enjoy treats from the cafe (outside food and drink not allowed.)

6517 NE Sandy Blvd.
Portland
Online: nestplayground.com

The Wiggle Room: Tucked into a corner of the Hollywood neighborhood, and within walking distance of the library and Laughing Planet, the Wiggle Room is a thoughtfully-designed playspace for kids from 0-7. Everyone can find their groove, with a larger structure for big kids, a padded play area for kids under 2, and a coffee bar for grown-ups. Natural light and a low-key color scheme keep things simple for people with sensory sensitivities.

1925 NE 42nd Ave., Suite C
Portland
Online: thewiggleroom.com

Hammer + Jack’s: We love this toy shop and play space in the rapidly-changing Foster-Powell neighborhood. Stop by to check out the toys, then drop-in for open play. Spend $10 for free play time, or get a punch card and become a regular. Check the website for open play hours and special events like kindie musicians, art classes, and storytimes.

6416 SE Foster Rd.
Portland
Online: hammerandjacks.com

Playdate PDX: This is the ultimate indoor playground, with a three-level playstructure for kids up to age 12, a selection of beverages for grown-ups, and a separate play area for toddlers. Make sure you have socks for playing inside the playstructure! Work up an appetite? Hit the cafe for lunch and snack items.

1434 NW 17th Ave.
Portland
Online: playdatepdx.com

7. The Best Museums for Kids

On days when the weather promises to pour nonstop, a visit to the museum is the perfect way to stay active, happy, and dry. Portland’s got ten museums within city limits! Here are our top three for families.

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): At this waterfront museum, hands-on science displays, motion simulators, and a planetarium supply a whole day’s worth of exploration. You can even tour a submarine! For kids 6 and under, check out the Science Playland. Plan your visit on the first Sunday of the month to get in for just $2.

1945 SE Water Ave.
Portland
Online: omsi.edu

Portland Art Museum: If you think an art museum is too refined for little kids, think again! With family tours and Baby Mornings, the Portland Art Museum welcomes and encourages even the littlest citizens to become patrons of the arts. Bags and large backpacks must be checked upon entry, so pare down to the essentials. Strollers are allowed, but littler ones might do better in a carrier.

1219 Southwest Park Ave.
Portland
Online: portlandartmuseum.org

8. Where to Swim, Splash, and Skate Indoors in Portland

For especially energetic kids, there’s nothing like a pool or skating session, and a rainy day is the perfect excuse to head indoors for some active fun. Portland’s got several indoor pools and skating rinks to choose from.

Oaks Bottom Roller Rink: In addition to afternoon and evening open skate sessions, Oaks Park has a preschool skate on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings from 10-11:30 a.m. just for kids 6 and younger. The session includes skates, cookies and milk, a group lesson and games. Adults are free with one child admission, and shoes and strollers are welcome on the rink. There’s also a Saturday morning Kids Skate for ages 10 and under that includes skates, fun games and a visit with Chipper. (

7805 SE Oaks Park Way
Portland
Online: oakspark.com

Lloyd Center Ice Rink: Take to the ice at the Lloyd Center Ice Rink, open daily in the mall. Rent skates and join public open skates during the day, or enjoy live DJ music during Rock n’ Skates on Friday and Saturday evenings.

953 Lloyd Center
Portland
Online: lloydice.com

McMenamin’s Kennedy School Soaking Pool: This ceramic, heated outdoor soaking pool is filled with chlorinated saltwater, in a private outdoor courtyard surrounded by gardens, on the spectacular Kennedy School grounds. Yes, we said outdoor, but hear us out: on a day when light rain or showers are predicted, it can feel pleasant and cozy to be outdoors in a warm pool. After soaking, grab a bite at the restaurant or catch a flick in the theater in this elementary-school-turned-hotel. Supervised minors welcome; bring your own towel! Note that during the rainy season, the pool is closed every 1st and 3rd Tuesday for cleaning.

5736 N.E. 33rd Ave.
Portland
Online: mcmenamins.com/kennedy-school

Portland Parks & Recreation Indoor Pools: You know what they say when kids get cranky: put them in water! Portland’s public indoor pools are open year-round for open swim, family swim, and preschool swim. Check the website for the closest pool to your neighborhood. Swim times vary by location.

Multiple Locations
Online: portlandoregon.gov/parks

9. Where to Dine Out in Portland When It Rains

After a long rainy day full of adventure, let someone else do the cooking while you unwind with the family. Here are our top picks for easy, delicious meals in a family-friendly setting.

McMenamin’s Kennedy School: Wander the halls of this former elementary school, now turned into a playland—McMenamin’s style—with a hotel, bars, movie theater, soaking pool (see above!), and restaurant. Your little ones can choose from a range of kid-approved favorites like pizza, tater-tots, and french fries, while the grown-ups enjoy a well-deserved pint.

5736 NE 33rd Ave.
Portland
Online: mcmenamins.com/kennedyschool

Mississippi Pizza Pub: With fantastic pizza and a family-friendly atmosphere, this neighborhood fave could have had us at “Hello.” But add in performances from favorite local kids’ bands on Friday nights? Next-level. Let your kids get out any last wiggles with a dance party while you kick back.

3552 N. Mississippi Ave.
Portland
Online: mississippipizza.com

Hopworks Urban Brewery (HUB): There’s a reason why this brew-pub is packed around 5 pm: it has several fully stocked play areas where kids can entertain themselves with toys while you enjoy your brew. Kids can chow down on mac n’ cheese or a Little Brewer’s Burger, and grown-ups can take their pick from a range of burgers, salads, pizza, and more. (Psst: There’s even organic baby food available for $2 a jar.)

Various Locations
Online: hopworksbeer.com

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15 Ways to Give Back: DC Groups You Can Support Right Now

by Meghan Yudes Meyers

From donating goods to volunteering your time, these are the best places around DC to make a difference as a family

Play Santa this season by checking off the wish lists of these local non-profits (plus one neighborhood group). You’ll help bring holiday cheer to those in need while also modeling empathy, kindness and generosity to your kids. There are so many ways to empower the local community this December, from donating goods, volunteering services or even making a monetary contribution. Whether you choose to spend time with struggling students in Ward 5, support sick kids with holiday gifts, or empower homeless teens with gift cards, donating to these local organizations will help make the holiday season a little brighter for those in need (and might just boost your family’s joy!).

https://www.instagram.com/p/CasJMIzOwWt/?hidecaption=true

Places to Support Children in Washington, DC

Dr. Bear's Closet at Children's National Hospital 
Bring holiday cheer to hospital-bound children this Dec. by donating gift cards and new toys, books and games. Shop the hospital registry here  to choose a gift that will be shipped directly to Dr. Bear's Closet. The hospital is collecting holiday donations now through Dec. 23 (but donations are accepted year round, so don't worry if you miss the holiday window).

111 Michigan Ave. NW
Stronghold
Online: childrensnational.org

District of Columbia Public Schools
DCPS (District of Columbia Public Schools) is currently seeking items to support in-classroom instruction, like computers, art supplies and white boards. You can direct your donation towards your local school, or contact DCPS to find the schools most in need. You can also make a monetary donation here.

Online: dcps.dc.gov

DC Diaper Bank
Helping babies is the number one mission of the DC Diaper Bank. Diapers, newborn necessities, nursing supplies, hygiene products and more are all collected to empower and change lives of babies living at or below the poverty line. DC Diaper Bank collects more than just diapers, you can also donate new carseats, strollers, diaper bags and other nursery needs. Stock the Bank's pantry by donating formula, wipes, diaper cream and more. 

1532 A St. NE
Capitol Hill
Online: dcdiaperbank.org

Beacon House
Serving over 400 children in Ward 5, Beacon House aims to close the educational gap and help Edgewood students achieve their greatest potential. Like a "beacon" of light guiding students to graduate from high school and pursue secondary-education, this non-profit embodies the spirit of a "lighthouse" for neighborhood kids. Donate your time and talents to help Edgewood youth; this organization is always seeking volunteers to help with their many educational programs. You can also make a monetary contribution here. For material good donations, contact the organization to get a list of their current needs.

601 Edgewood St. NE
Edgewood
Online: beaconhousedc.org

Partners for Kids in Care
Partners for Kids in Care supports children and youth in foster care and at-risk families in DC’s welfare system. Donate new or gently used clothes, games, toiletries and linens to the Children's Donation Center where teens, youth and families can shop free for their personal needs. 

200 I St. SE
Navy Yard
Online: cfsa.dc.gov

Mobile Hope
Mobile Hope has been empowering at-risk youth in Loudoun County since 2011. This organization supports teens and young adults (up to 24) with shelter, clothing, food, transportation and more. You can support Mobile Hope's annual toy drive by shopping their Amazon wish list here. Mobile Hope also accepts food, clothing, shoes, diapers and more year round.

302 Parker Ct. SE
Leesburg, VA
Online: mobile-hope.org

Martha’s Table
This group has worked for 35 years to support children, families and the community at large in the DC area. Volunteer your time and become one of the 16,000 volunteer who help with food, clothing and special events every year. This organization is currently accepting beans, canned vegetables, whole grain crackers, pasta and more (for a full list, go here). Martha's Table also accepts new and gently-used clothes for adults and children.

2114 14th St. NW
Cardozo
Online: marthastable.org

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Places to Help the Homeless in Washington, DC

So Others Might Eat
For over 50 years, So Others Might Eat (S.O.M.E.) has been serving the DC"s homeless community and those experiencing extreme poverty since 1970. This interfaith organization offers transitional housing, access to medical care, career training, and an open door policy to those that need a hot shower, a meal or food pantry items. S.O.M.E. is currently collecting food, clothing, hygiene items and household goods. You can view their Amazon wishlist here.

71 O St. NW
Truxton Circle
Online: some.org

A Wider Circle
A Wider Circle provides basic need items to families transitioning out of homelessness or leaving domestic abuse situations. Their goal is to help families get a fresh start with dignity and hope. A Wider Circle accepts gently used  baby essentials, like strollers, highchairs, changing tables, Pack ‘n Plays, car seats, infant and toddler clothing and cribs as well as any household items you might need to start a new home (think pots and pans, desks and children's toys). 

9159 Brookville Rd.
Silver Spring, MD
Online: awidercircle.org

Shelter House
This nonprofit serves two shelters for families and one for victims of domestic violence in Fairfax County, VA. Needs are greatest for toiletries, gift cards, diapers and wipes, baby bottles and more.

Online: shelterhouse.org

Carpenter’s Shelter
Serving more than 600 homeless and formerly homeless children and adults each year, this shelter serves people in need in the city of Alexandria. They’re looking for in-kind donations of food, toiletries and miscellaneous items such as air mattresses, dish and bath towels, and SmarTrip cards. 

5701-D Duke St.
Alexandria, VA
Online: carpentersshelter.org

Bethesda Cares
This community outreach program for the homeless provides food, clothing and psychiatric services, and helps put a roof over the heads of people in the streets. Bethesda Cares accepts food, clothing or toiletries. During the winter, coats for adults are especially needed.

7728 Woodmont Ave.
Bethesda, MD
Online: bethesdacares.org

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More Ways to Give Back in Washington, DC

GreenDrop
As the name implies, you can drop used goods at a number of freestanding donations boxes across the DMV, but this service will also come to you! Schedule a pick up and let GreenDrop haul away your bags (and bags!) of used clothes, toys, appliances, small furniture and more. GreenDrop sells your goods and you choose where they donate the profits (pick from organizations like the American Red Cross, Military Order of the Purple Heae or the National Federation of the Blind). 

Various Drop-Off Locations around MD and VA or schedule a pick-up
Online: gogreendrop.com

The Buy Nothing Project
Post items on your local Buy Nothing group that no longer bring you joy and  brighten up the day of one of your neighbors (they simply scoop up your goods from your doorstep). These groups aren't just limited to used goods; you can also share your time and talents. Whether you're a notary public or an online tutor, you can offer your services free-of-charge to help those that could not otherwise afford them. Want to be on the receiving end of your neighbors' generosity? You can also request things from your personal wish list with one simple rule: money never changes hands.

Online: facebook.com/BuyNothingProject

Bikes for the World 
Let's think about the tricycles and bikes that may be crowding your hallway or tiny garage. A great organization that can help you to get rid of some of those bikes is Bikes for the World. Bikes for the World is a nonprofit humanitarian organization and volunteer network that collects thousands of used bicycles, as well as bike parts and tools, and delivers them to community programs around the world. Recently, they worked with BikeMatch DC to deliver bikes to essential workers during COVID. They also distribute bikes to area youth through an earn-a-bike program. So get to pedaling over to the Bikes for the World Warehouse. You can donate at anytime to any participating bike shop or find out when the local warehouse (address below) is hosting a bike drive.

1420 S. Eads Ave.
Arlington, VA
Online: bikesfortheworld.org

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LA’s Best Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies You Won’t Want to Miss

by Melissa Heckscher

Grab your cozy jackets and head to a Christmas tree lighting ceremony that is so much more than just a few lights on a tree—from fireworks and faux snow to Grammy award winning performers—Los Angeles knows how to really jumpstart the holiday season

There is something magical about turning on the lights of a Christmas Tree… Something about the “Three…two…one….” —not to mention the celebration before and after the lights go on! that gets us in the mistletoe mood. Luckily, Los Angeles has no shortage of tree lightings. Whether you want to see the Grove light up the night or the towering pyramid of lights twinkling over the ocean at the Manhattan Beach Pier—you’ve got plenty of choices when it comes to Yuletide dazzlement. Check out the below events, listed by date so if you miss one, you can quickly find another Christmas tree lighting ceremony that is sure to impress. Of course, take all that holiday magic and apply it to the rest of the month—don’t miss our favorite places to buy Christmas trees in LA, the best holiday light displays in Los Angeles that are worth your time and money, and last, but not least, where to get tickets to all the kid-friendly Nutcracker shows nearby that kids (and adults!) will adore.

1. Christmas Tree Lighting at the Manhattan Beach Pier

Manhattan Beach does more than just light a Christmas tree on its annual holiday lighting event—it lights up all 900-feet of its popular pier, with the totem "tree" (which is really just strings of lights forming a massive cone) jutting up from the roof of the end-of-the-pier aquarium. The festivities start at 5 p.m. with a visit from Santa, then continues all night long leading up to the lighting ceremony. Throughout the night, all the Downtown shops hand out free holiday treats in honor of the event—and kids will want to stop and see the live reindeer (!) in front of Pages, the quaint beach town's popular small bookstore. Throughout the night, roving carolers will be strolling the streets, singing holiday songs to all who listen—and the local school choirs will sing leading up to the lighting ceremony, at which point the town mayor flips the switch and the crowds are allowed to walk down the newly-illuminated pier.

Date: Wed. Nov. 16; 5-8:30 p.m. (Christmas tree lights turn on at 7 p.m.)

Manhattan Beach Blvd.
Manhattan Beach
Online: manhattanbeach.gov

2. Christmas Tree Lighting on Rodeo Drive

Welcome the holidays, red carpet style! Enjoy Rodeo Drive's glitzy shops, all done up in holiday cheer, then watch as the towering Christmas tree lights blaze on before a grand finale of fireworks. This year's celebration will feature performances by sixteen-time Grammy award-winning musician, songwriter and producer David Foster and acclaimed singer, television and Broadway star Katharine McPhee, who will will perform live with new holiday songs and old favorites. Of course, Santa will also be on hand for the event. 

Can't make it to the lighting ceremony? The celebration doesn't end there! Pump up your holiday spirit by visiting Beverly Hills' dazzling display of holiday light installations, all running nightly through Jan. 1. These include "Glowing Gardens" at Beverly Cañon Gardens, "Lights on the Lily Pond" at Beverly Gardens Park, and "Unwrap the Magic" at Beverly Hills City Hall Tower. There will be also be live caroling, dancing, craft-making and more at Greystone Mansion and Gardens’ holiday celebration on Dec. 3-4.  

Date: Thurs. Nov. 17; 5-8 p.m.

2 Rodeo Dr.
Beverly Hills
Online: lovebeverlyhills.com

3. Christmas Tree Lighting at The Grove LA

Keep kids up past their bedtimes for the shopping destination's 20th annual star-studded tree lighting extravaganza, which will feature live performances from Gloria Estefan, Andy Grammer, Little Big Town, and David Foster & Kat McPhee. This year's spectacular is being held in partnership with CBS for its “A Home for the Holidays at The Grove” TV special. The hourlong special, which will air Dec. 23 on CBS, aims to shine a light on the thousands of American children in foster care and help get these kids into "forever families."  

The cameras will be rolling, so make sure you and your brood are "Lights, camera, action!"-ready as you gather around the Grove's 100-foot-tall white fir tree, which will be adorned in 15,000 sparking lights and 10,000 ornaments. The forecast also calls for a (faux) snowfall—and fireworks—so kids will be sufficiently wowed.

Of course, with all the glitz and glamour on stage, the only star your kid will want to see is Santa. And word has it that he'll be making an appearance, too—so get those holiday wish lists in order!

Date: Sun., Nov. 20 

189 The Grove Dr.
Los Angeles
Online: thegrovela.com

4. LA County Tree Lighting

Your little elves can make lots of merriment in DTLA with the official lighting of Los Angeles County’s Christmas tree at the Music Center's 35,000-square foot outdoor plaza. Enjoy the sweet sounds of holiday favorites from local music artists and community groups, then gather around the magnificent 75-foot-tall tree to watch it twinkle with holiday lights. Word has it, there may even be hot chocolate. 

Date: Mon. Nov. 28; 5 p.m.

Music Center Plaza
200 N Grand Ave. 
Los Angeles
Online: musiccenter.org

5. Christmas Tree Lighting at Union Station 

The historic station will illuminate its towering tree with thousands of glistening lights on the majestic South Patio as snow drifts from the sky in a classic kickoff to the holiday season. The festive, family-friendly celebration will also feature performances from the vintage voices of The Beverly Belles and party band, Weekend Celebrity, along with a “live” mural from eclectic artist Septerhed and special appearance from the North Pole's most special guy. There will also be a holiday arts and crafts zone, custom photo opps, Santa selfies, and free hot cocoa and holiday cookie bars.

Date: Wed., Nov. 30 at 6:30 p.m (tree lighting is at 7:15 p.m.)

800 N. Alameda St.
DTLA
Online: unionstationla.com

 

6. Christmas Tree Lighting at the Santa Monica Promenade

best christmas tree lighting ceremonies in LA
Downtown Santa Monica

If you want to get your holiday shopping done while you're celebrating the kickoff of the holiday season, head to the Santa Monica Promenade, where the city's annual holiday celebration, Winterlit, transforms Third Street Promenade and Downtown Santa Monica into an immersive Yuletide experience, with tens of thousands of lights and a smorgasbord of seasonal decor at every turn. The grand lighting of the Promenade's 24-foot-tall tree is an all-out extravaganza that will feature performances by local school groups, free photos with Santa, and snowy skies sure to delight all those beach babies.

Date: Thurs., Dec. 1; 6-8 p.m.

Third Street Promenade at Santa Monica Blvd.
Santa Monica
Online: downtownsm.com/winterlit

7. Christmas Tree Lighting in Culver City

Historic Culver City will once again host its spectacular Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration—this year with 25 tons of fresh sled-ready snow! The Tree Lighting Ceremony will include a 30-minute
show of  singing, dancing, and music by local kids and a countdown to the the big reveal led by the mayor. The “Sled-tacular Festival” promises to be a Winter Wonderland, with enough snow for lots of slippery sliding and snowball-rolling. Expect snowmen, games, booths, treats, and a special visit from Santa.

Can't make it? The event will be live-streamed and viewable 6-6:45 p.m. on the city's website.

Date: Thurs., Dec. 1; 5-8:30 p.m. (Sled-tacular Festival begins 5 p.m.; Tree Lighting show and countdown takes place from 6-6:30

9500 Culver Blvd.
Culver City
Online: downtownculvercity.com

8. Simi Valley Tree Lighting & Snowfall

Snow is in the forecast at this Simi Valley annual event, which features a whole roster of activities for kids plus live music, food and drinks for all. The event kicks off midday with a bounce house and activities for the kids including visits with both Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Come hungry (and thirsty!), as there will  be a beer garden, farmers market and hot foods for sale. The tree lighting will be followed by a performance by oldies cover party band Captain Cardiac and the Coronaries. Make sure to dress warm—the snow will be falling!

Good to Know: Mrs Claus visits at 2 p.m.; Santa visits at 6 p.m.; the Christmas tree lighting is at 6:15 p.m.; Snowfall takes place at 6:30 p.m. and the concert will be held from 7-8 p.m.; The Night market is open from 7-10 p.m.

Date: Sat., Dec. 3; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 

1555 Simi Town Center Way
Simi Valley
Online: simivalleytowncenter.com

9. 100th Annual Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony in Altadena 

After a two-year hiatus due to COVID, the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Winter Festival is back in Altadena, where a stretch of Santa Rosa's iconic deodar cedar trees have been lighting up for the holidays since 1920 (it's reportedly the oldest outdoor Christmas tree display in the world). The kickoff event, the Winter Festival, will take place at the library and will include tasty seasonal treats and drinks, as well a holiday craft market featuring local artisans. From there, head out to the streets and watch with the crowd as the lights go on for the season.

Good to Know: Daytime festivities center around the Altadena Public Library. The lighting ceremony starts at 6 p.m. Don't miss "Christmas Tree Lane" —one of the best holiday light displays in Los Angeles and takes place on Santa Rosa Ave. between Woodbury Rd. and Altadena Dr.

Date: Thurs., Dec. 10; 3-9 p.m.

600 E. Mariposa St.
Altadena
Online: christmastreelane.net

 

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20 Baby Memory Books & Journals You’ll Love

by Jane Putnum

With these baby memory books, you’ll have those special memories forever

We all want our baby’s milestones and photos to be recorded in beautiful baby memory books. But actually doing it…can feel like a chore. But not with these memory keepers! From easy-to-use apps to books with written prompts, you’ll find the right format for you below.

Inclusive for All Families

RubyRoo

With neutral language about families and holidays from several religions included (just remove the ones that don't apply to your family), the RubyRoo Baby Memory Book Baby Journal tries to make itself inclusive to all families. The book covers pregnancy to age 5 and covers milestones, vacations, celebrations and more, including six blank pages for photos and memories specific to your family. There are three covers to choose from: floral, woodland and adventure-themed.

Available at Amazon, $25.

Tinybeans Photo Book

Don't lose any of those special memories! Keep them preserved in a Tinybeans photo book. You'll love looking back at the memories and the book is so easy to create. 

Available at Tinybeans, $20. 

Three Years of Memories

The Quarto Group

Document the first three years of your child's life with this handy baby book. In addition to space to record the basics about your birth and family, there are lots of fun prompts about your home, baby's visitors, daily routines at different ages, favorite activities, holiday celebrations, and friends. There's an expandable pocket at the back of the book for storing keepsakes, with an elastic enclosure to keep things all together.

Available at Quarto Knows, $23.

Gender-Neutral & Gorgeous

baby memory books
Write to Me

This gender-neutral journal covers your pregnancy and the first year of baby's life in style, with a linen cover, gold embossed title, illustrated end pages and a linen box to store the book in. The guided journal features prompts you'll look forward to filling out, including favorite toys, funny things baby is doing and memorable moments for each month.

Available at Write To Me Shop, $65.

Related: Take Your Baby Memory Book to the Next Level

Go Beyond the Book

C.R. Gibson

This baby memory book from C.R. Gibson, "A Book of Baby's Firsts," includes a washable-ink pad so you can document and remember just how teeny your baby's feet and hands were. The Bundle Bright line also includes the smaller and very Instagrammable "Our Magical Memories" ($11), which comes with 25 flippable cards you fill in with baby's milestones. Pages can be rearranged however you like.

Available at Amazon, $21.

Helpful Photo Prompts

baby memory books

In addition to lots of space for your photos, this interactive photo journal from Artifact Uprising includes written photo prompts to help you tell your child's story: bath time snaps, favorite spots to snuggle, the day baby met special people. Thanks to the four-ring binder, you can rearrange or remove any pages that don't work for your family. The customizable construction also means you can add extra pages where you want them.

Available at Artifact Uprising, $99.

Focus on the Family

When We Became Three documents mom and dad's relationship and pregnancy as well as the milestones for baby's first and second year. And yes, there is a When We Became Four book. Clever questions and checklists make this book fun for couples to fill out, which is a big plus for busy new parents.

Available at Amazon, $10.

A Walk on the Wild Side

baby memory books

Record the first 12 months of baby's life with National Geographic's Welcome Little One keepsake baby book. In addition to spots to record baby's amazing milestones, the book includes cute animal photos, heartwarming poems and quotes, and stickers for each monthly milestone. This is one book you and your child will love to page through for years to come. 

Available at Amazon, $18.

Time Machine

baby memory books

Share with your little one what the world was like when they were born with This Is Your Book, by graphic artist and father Ryan Maconochie. In addition to recording baby’s vitals with sleek visuals, this book includes prompts about current events, pop culture, your favorite things and musings on baby, like which names you scratched off the list.

Available at Amazon, $18.

Related: 8 Tips for Surviving the First 6 Months with Your New Baby

The Total Package

The Story of You has thought of everything new parents could want in a baby book. There are prompts you can fill out (about pregnancy, funny moments, and holiday memories), plus open spaces to record special moments and add photos as you like. The binder format lets you add, remove and reorder pages. And you can buy additional pages to record circumstances such as adoption, foster care, a NICU stay, infertility, and a heavenly baby.

Available at Emily Ley, $64.

Scrapbook App

baby memory books

No matter how far away your loved ones are, they can feel like they are with you for all of baby’s firsts with the free Moment Garden app. All those precious moments are backed up and kept private for you to share with those you choose. Want a physical book too? Print a hardcover or softcover book whenever you like.

Available at Moment Garden; the app is free, and a book costs $9-$49.

Black-and-White Dream

The Dreamcatcher black-and-white baby book from Etsy shop Mushybooks offers a sleek, gender-neutral design. Its 50 pages include all the moments you would expect from a baby book (birth story, firsts, favorites. etc.) with an aesthetic that's clean and simple so your baby can shine. Pages can be added or removed as desired.

Available at Etsy shop Mushybooks, $75+.

Mini Brag Book

baby memory books

Take photo books to tiny dimensions with Minibooks from Social Print Studio. Compile all your favorite baby photos into laminated, spiral-bound photo books. Slip them into your purse or pocket, so you always have pictures of mini-you to share with friends and family. This makes a great gift idea for grandparents too!

Available at Social Print Studio, 2 books for $21.

Not-So-Precious Moments

Take a non-traditional approach to memorykeeping and celebrate all of those alternative baby moments with Baby’s First Tattoo, by Jim Mullen. With this humorous approach to baby books, you'll never forget those other important moments, like: baby’s first tantrum in a crowded grocery store or places baby crawls that parents didn’t think possible.

Available at Amazon, $13.

Box It Up

Not every baby milestone fits into a book. The fabric boxes of The Library: Baby Keepsake Box can be displayed like books but hold so much more than a traditional tome. In this handcrafted memory box, you can save baby’s favorite blanket, a lock of hair, the first pair of shoes and more. There are even vertical files for important documents or photos.

Available at Savor, $95.

Related: Turn Your Texts into a Baby Book with This Cool New Service 

Email Reminders

baby memory books

Do you have trouble remembering to jot down those milestones? My Own Little Story is an online baby book that offers free email reminders to help you keep track of baby’s special moments. It even has a snooze button for those milestones baby hasn’t hit yet. Print your book once you have 10 milestones, or wait to create a larger book with up to 36 milestones or 72 printed pages.

Available at My Own Little Story, $30-$79.

Easy Phone Photos

baby memory books

Chatbooks took a candid look at the craziness that is motherhood and offered a supremely simple solution to printing photos from your phone. The app will automatically arrange your photos in chronological order for you. All you have to do is add captions and pick your cover to capture all of baby’s special moments. 

Available at Chatbooks; $5+.

Nature's Approach

baby memory books

With an emphasis on your baby’s interactions with the natural world, The First 1000 Days: A Baby Journal by Nikki McClure lets you record your baby’s birth story as well as their first tree, moon and garden. The bold papercut illustrations will captivate even the youngest eyes.

Available at Amazon, $17.

A Noteworthy Book

The Mom's One Line a Day book simplifies the baby book by letting moms write one short note a day to document an event, experience or that day's feelings. With room for five years' worth of notes, you can document the magic of your little one's early years without too much effort.

Available at Amazon, $13.

Love Letters

Letters to My Baby allows you to write your child letters about your hopes, dreams and memories. Once written, you seal them until your child is old enough to read them. There are prompts for each of the 12 letters to help you craft what you write. 

Available at Amazon, $12.

The Guilt-Free Baby Book

baby memory books
Little Animal Lover Memory Book

No need to spend countless hours creating a scrapbook-like memory book because this book from Lucy Darling has done the work for you. Available in a variety of themes, there's space to document firsts, favorites and monthly milestones amid beautifully designed pages.

Available at Lucy Darling, $35+.

You can easily organize all your sweetest family moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

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13 Comedies on HBO Max You Can Watch with the Kids

by Kristina Johnson

Pressing play on a movie that’ll have the whole family rolling with laughter is one of the best ways to spend an evening at home. But sifting through the thousands of options readily available on streaming services to find one everyone can agree on isn’t always the easiest. To cut down on that endless scrolling through choices, we’ve compiled some of the most family friendly comedies on HBO Max you can watch with the kids.

These 13 flicks are total crowd pleasers, meaning mom and dad will have just as much fun as the little ones.

The Lego Batman Movie

Comedies on HBO Max include LEGO Batman
© Warner Bros.

Batman has never been funnier than in this animated hit. The Caped Crusader sets out to save Gotham City from the Joker’s villainous plans, and this time trusty sidekick Robin is along for the ride. With comedians Will Arnett, Zach Galifianakis, Michael Cera, and Jenny Slate rounding out the voice cast, you know you’re in for lots of laughs.

Rated PG.

Daddy Day Care

Comedies on HBO Max include Daddy Day Care
© Sony Pictures

Eddie Murphy made his name as a raunchy stand-up comic, but this sweet and funny 2003 comedy on HBO Max is totally PG. Murphy and fellow comic Jeff Garlin star as career men who become stay-at-home-dads when they get laid off from their jobs.

Rated PG.

Dennis the Menace

Walter Matthau, a boy and a dog
© Warner Bros.

The beloved comic strip comes to life in this 1993 family comedy. Walther Matthau plays the curmudgeonly neighbor Mr. Wilson, whose peace and quiet keeps getting interrupted by Dennis and his mutt Ruff. Kids will love the hilarious hijinks Dennis constantly gets into, and parents will get more than a few laughs, too.

Rated PG.

Master of Disguise

Dana Carvey and Jennifer Esposito in Master of Disguise
© Sony Pictures

A couple of Saturday Night Live veterans teamed up to make this over-the-top silly comedy. Adam Sandler produced the film and Dana Carvey stars as the titular Master of Disguise — a secret agent on a mission to rescue his parents from a criminal mastermind.

Rated PG.

Are We There Yet?

Rapper Ice Cube sits with his head in his hands and several kids behind him
© Sony Pictures

Rapper Ice Cube stars in this funny flick. He plays a bachelor who’s totally uninterested in kids, until he meets the woman of his dreams — who just happens to have two of them. When the whole gang ends up on a road trip together, lots of laughs ensue — and so does some family bonding.

Rated PG.

Shazam!

Zachary Levi as Shazam
© Warner Bros.

A teenage boy in foster care gets the power to turn into an adult superhero simply by saying Shazam! in this action-comedy on HBO Max. The grown-up version is played by Zachary Levi, who uses his newfound strength to take on bullies and bad guys. If the family falls in love with the movie, there’s a sequel hitting theaters this summer.

Rated PG-13.

Shrek the Third

Comedies on HBO Max include Shrek 3
© DreamWorks

The beloved ogre returns for a royal romp in Shrek the Third. After inheriting the kingdom of Far Far Away, Shrek starts to think he might not be cut out for the monarchy—so he recruits Princess Fiona’s slacker cousin Artie (voiced by Justin Timberlake) for the job instead.

Rated PG.

Bee Movie

Barry the Bee in Bee Movie
© DreamWorks

Written and voiced by comedian Jerry Seinfeld, Bee Movie has become something of a cult classic in the past few years. The 2007 animated film centers on a cute little bee named Barry B. Benson, who gets fed up with the human race and decides to do something about it.

Rated PG.

Early Man

© Lionsgate

The creator of Wallace and Gromit made this animated caveman comedy in 2018. Set in the year 1 Million B.C., the film follows a caveman named Doug who has to fight off more advanced invaders — by playing a game of prehistoric football.

Rated PG.

Zookeeper

Comedies on HBO Max include Zookeeper.
© Columbia Pictures

Talking animals play matchmaker in this 2011 comedy on HBO Max. Kevin James stars as the unlucky-in-love zookeeper being set up by his zoo charges, voiced by a hilarious cast including Adam Sandler, Maya Rudolph, Judd Apatow, and Nick Nolte.

Rated PG.

Johnson Family Vacation

© Fox Searchlight Pictures

The Johnsons are heading from Los Angeles to Missouri for a family reunion, but their epic road trip goes awry time and time again. The funny cast includes Cedric the Entertainer and Steve Harvey, as well as rapper Bow Wow, Vanessa Williams, and Solange.

Rated PG-13. 

The Bob’s Burgers Movie

Comedies on HBO Max include Bob's Burgers Movie
© 20th Century Studios

This movie based on the hit TV show serves up lots of laughs. Gearing up for summer fun, the Belcher family gets distracted by financial troubles—and the giant sinkhole that opens up under their restaurant, leading to a mystery that only this burger-flipping family can solve.

Rated PG-13.

Elf

Will Ferrell in Elf
© New Line Cinema

Christmas movies aren’t just for December, especially when they’re this funny. Will Ferrell stars as a human raised as an elf at the North Pole trying to connect with his birth father—and bring the world enough Christmas cheer to power Santa’s sleigh.

Rated PG.

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Where to Donate Old Toys & Children’s Items

by Annette Benedetti

Wondering where you donate your kids clothes and toys in Portland? These non-profits are happy to pass along items to local families in need

Spring is almost here, which means it’s the perfect time to do some heavy spring cleaning. Before you throw out all of your kids’ old toys and clothes, remember that what’s old to you and your family could be new and exciting for local families in need. After you’ve sifted through your family’s lightly worn items, head to one of these Portland non-profit spots with your mostly new and lightly used clothes, toys and household goods at these places where families can donate kids clothes and toys in Portland.

a woman holds a stack of kids clothes to donate
Dan Gold via Unsplash

Mother and Child Education Center
Providing resources for families in need, this nonprofit accepts a wide range of gently used items for babies. It’s almost more useful to list some of the things they don’t accept, such as toys, stuffed animals, high chairs, and adult clothing. They’ve got a fabulously detailed donations page to help you sort and package your goods in a way that streamlines volunteer and staff time, so that items reach recipients more efficiently. In the event that they can’t take an item you’re looking to donate, they’re even happy to offer suggestions for alternate places. Just call. No more excuses for dumping a bunch of random stuff at Goodwill.

Good to Know: Donations done by appointment only. They ask that you call to find out if they can accept your donations in advance.

1515 N.E. 41st Ave.
Portland
Online: momchildpdx.org

Catholic Charities’ In Kind
Catholic Charities accepts new or gently-used baby clothes, maternity clothes, household appliances, and furniture. You can also donate your new or like-new bedding and towels. Please note, they only accept new hygiene items, baby toys, cribs, pack-n-plays, and car seats. Catholic Charities of Oregon can also pick up large donations of furniture or household items on a case-by-case basis. They ask that you call to make an appointment to drop off your items and make sure to check out their current list of needs. Make an appointment to drop off your in-kind donations during regular business hours by emailing donations@ccoregon.org.

Catholic Charities Traveling Crib
Pregnancy & Parenting Support Program
Clark Family Center
2740 S.E. Powell Blvd.
Portland
Online: catholiccharitiesoregon.org

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With Love,
Providing clothes and other necessities to children in foster care, this nonprofit seeks your donations in new or like-new condition. Donate baby swings, strollers, high chairs, bouncy seats, baby carriers, and Pack-n-Plays that are clean, have no broken parts and have not been recalled. Check their website for a complete list of guidelines and items not accepted. Two locations in Tigard and Lake Oswego serve as drop-off spots. Check the website for days and times.

Donation Drop-Off Hours: Mon. & Fri., 11a.m.-1 p.m.

8178 S.W. Durham Rd.
Tigard, OR
Online: withloveoregon.org

Impact NW
With a long history of serving families in the Portland Metro area and beyond, this nonprofit provides a wide range of free services. Many of the people they serve have only enough income for food, rent, and the bare essentials, and so Impact NW accepts donations of other much-needed supplies. While they always accept donations of new items, they accept gently used items in clean and good condition on an at-will basis only, due to limited storage space. Please call ahead to ask about available space for the item you’d like to donate. Donations can be dropped off at time arranged over an advanced phone call.

10055 E. Burnside
Portland
Online: impactnw.org

Central City Concern
Central City Concern serves families impacted by homelessness, mental illness, poverty and addictions. They gladly accept donations of gently used children’s items, hygiene kits, diapers, baby wipes,car seats (new), strollers, bassinets . Check their website for a complete list of ways you can give.

232 N.W. 6th Ave.
Portland
Online: centralcityconcern.org

Northwest Children’s Outreach
This faith-based nonprofit operates several distribution centers in Oregon and SW Washington, working to provide caregivers with items families need. Volunteers sort clothing, pack orders, and pick up donations. They accept clothing for newborns to teens, hygiene products, breastfeeding supplies (including pumps), nursery items, children’s safety products, toys, and books. Check their website for a complete list and for hours of operation at each location.

Online: northwestchildrensoutreach.org

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Children’s Book Bank
Have your kids outgrown a portion of their at-home library? Bring your gently used books to this non-profit focused on providing children’s literature to children with limited access to books at home. Volunteers rehabilitate and bundle the books for distribution through Head Start and public schools, so please check for missing pages, mold, or other damage beyond repair before donating. Current needs include board books, picture books, alphabet books, books about numbers, colors, animals, shapes and words, story books, rhyming books, Dr. Seuss books, multicultural books and books in Spanish. Donations taken by appointment only. Call to setup your time.

1728 N.E. Glisan St.
Portland
Online: childrensbookbank.org

Insights Teen Parent Services
Dedicated to serving teen parents and their children through a wide range of free support services, this nonprofit also runs a resource closet that parents can visit by appointment to find what they need. Among other items, they're currently accepting maternity clothes, clothing in sizes newborn-5T, toys for ages 0-5, board books, and winter coats. They also accept cribs made after December 2011, and used car seats that meet specific requirements, as listed on the website. Donations are limited to a specific list so check their website for an updated list.

3308 N.E. Peerless Pl.
Portland
Online: insightstpp.org

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