Just Do It! 100 Family Adventures Around Seattle

by Allison SutcliffeMay 27, 2021

With summer just around the corner, and our new, new normal straight ahead, it’s a great time to get reaquainted with family-friendly activities in Seattle. Since the list of things to do in Seattle with kids is (nearly) endless, we’ve picked out the can’t-miss adventures you’ve got to try at least once. Here’s to making it happen!

1. Ride to the top of the Space Needle and take a selfie on the glass benches that extend out over the Needle. Psst…be sure to look down to see the ah-mazing view!

2. Get a first-hand glimpse at some of the most colorful and eccentric animals on our planet at this popular spot along the Seattle Waterfront.

3. Suit up and go indoor skydiving.

4. This small but mighty museum on Bainbridge Island rocks a giant Lite Brite, an indoor sand box, a kid-sized grocery store and more, plus you get there by taking a totally awesome ferry from Seattle.

5. Take your little water bugs to this tiki-themed indoor pool that makes you feel like you're on vacation, even when you're not.

6. Head to Alki Beach to rollerblade, bike or scooter along the paved trail. Then, make sand castles, put your toes in the water and enjoy a great meal with a fabulous view.

7. Spend the day at this Eastside haven that is bursting with fun parks, museums, play spaces and shopping malls to explore, along with delicious restaurants to feed your squad.

8. Take a ride on Seattle’s iconic Ferris wheel and see the city like never before.

9. Too tired to cook? These restaurants offer fantastic food and the family-friendly environment you’ve been searching for.

10. Journey to the "Center of the Universe” to visit the troll who lives under the Aurora Bridge.

11. Venture to the Hiram H. Chittendon Locks to see the salmon migrate up the fish ladder from Puget Sound to Lake Washington, watch the boats pass through the Locks and explore the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden.

12. Feed your kids’ need for speed at this nine-acre, four-story museum.

13. Go on a sweet factory tour and watch authentic "candy dippers” finish truffles. Then, try a variety of chocolates—from handmade truffles to creamy caramels.

14. Take a trip around the globe—without leaving the city—at this new spot in Tukwila.

15. Open a portal into a new world—at least virtually—at this spot that puts family fun at the center of the VR experience.

waterfall hikes seattle — Kylie Kirkland

16. Lace up your hiking boots and venture to these outstanding vistas that promise post-worthy pics and plenty of memories.

17. Spend the day (or weekend!) exploring Vashon Island.

18. Unleash your inner rock star, try brand-new indie video games, encounter alien lifeforms and immerse yourself in the history of pop culture at this iconic museum under the Needle.

19. Head to the Eastside to play at one of these beautiful lakefront beaches that also have fantastic playgrounds. Prefer an Eastside park with nibbler-friendly spots nearby? Try these parks and playgrounds.

20. Grab your beach bag and head to one of these secret beaches to avoid the crowds.

21. Ride the rails through the Upper Snoqualmie Valley aboard an antique train.

22. Check out the cool exhibits and airplanes on display at Seattle’s one-of-a-kind aviation museum. Then, head outside to watch the planes take off and land at Boeing Field.

23. With over 150 hands-on exhibits spread over two floors and an Outdoor Discovery Center, you can’t really go wrong at this popular Olympia museum.

24. Learn all about Seattle’s rich history and what’s happening now at this awesome museum in South Lake Union.

25. What’s the buzz? Find out when you bring the kids to this hidden gem.

26. Take a trip to this iconic Wallingford store where you can buy giant googly eyes, a bigfoot research kit and larger-than-life animal masks.

27. See how many fanciful characters your kiddos can find on this magical forest hike.

28. See real mummies, genuine shrunken heads, a two-headed calf and lots of unusual things to pique you and your kids’ curiosity at this popular shop along the Seattle Waterfront.

29. Head out in search of a fantastic natural waterslide and two splash-tastic waterfalls that are all just off I-90.

30. Hang out with your favorite furry, scaly and feathered friends at this zoo in the city.

31. Break out the rain boots and grab your sand buckets—it’s time to explore the shores!

32. Be on the lookout for some “tweet” friends when you visit this favorite Eastside park.

33. Hit a hole in one at these fun and whimsical spots designed for kids and parents.

34. Head to the Seattle Center and let your kids run around this awesome fountain (scheduled to re-open at the end of June, 2021). Psst…bring a change of clothes and a towel because they’re gonna get wet!

35. Seek out important sights and experiences where you and the kids can learn about Black history in Seattle.

36. There’s always something fun going on at this popular museum in Everett that has plans to re-open June 2, 2021.

37. Plan a day at Juanita Beach. Between the new playground and the protected waterfront that’s great for kayaking, there’s so much to do!

38,. This Eastside museum received a brand-new home a few years ago, and along with the new digs comes new exhibits and experiences your kids are going to love.

39. Tired of those typical garden-variety attractions? Try this City Center spot for a change of pace.

40. Get up close and personal with the barn yard animals at this farm in the city—from goats to sheep to chickens, your kids will be singing Old Macdonald in no time.

41. Satisfy your little daredevil’s need for speed at one of these thrilling pump tracks.

42. This bright and cheery museum boasts a large water table, a fantastically fun art studio, a climbable vessel reminiscent of an airplane-treehouse-fort and much more. The best part? It’s pay as you will.

43. Go whale watching!

A young girl goes down the slide at Wild Waves Theme and Water Park outside Seattle — Wild Waves

44. Take a trip to Seattle’s only water and theme park.

45. Head to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium to visit the tigers, camels and polar bears and to see and learn about the marine animals that call the Pacific Northwest home.

46. This low-cost, family-friendly, outdoor activity not only offers a bit of adventure, but amazing sightseeing and a good workout.

47. See and touch creepy crawlers of all shapes and sizes at these spots around the city.

48. Looking for plant-based meals your kiddo will like? Head to one of these restaurants guaranteed to please everyone.

49. Seattle is chock-full of beautiful gardens, but none are more inviting and more peaceful than these.

50. Shop for fresh fruits, veggies and flowers from local farmers and purveyors, visit the arts and craft vendors, try your hand at "tossing” a salmon and nosh on delish food at Seattle’s iconic Pike Place Market.

51. If you’re ready to have some fun on the farm, hit one of these petting farms and zoos.

52. Meet bison, moose and more at this drive-thru animal park that’s also got one of the coolest playgrounds around.

53. Treat yourself and your kids to one of the best cookies in town!

54. Go on an alligator hunt in the forests of West Seattle.

55. Looking to trade city life for mountain life for a few days? Consider a visit to this premier, all-season mountain resort just 80 miles east of Seattle.

56. Scoop the Lake Union loop on this little-known bike trail that’s got plenty of spots to stop for lunch.

57. Dust off your skates and relive your glory days at these retro-fun spots that have stood the test of time.

58. Bring history to life at this outdoor museum that recreates life on the Sound in the mid-1800s.

59. Explore this hidden gem tucked away in the Washington Park Arboretum.

60. Don your fishing gear, grab your fishing pole and head to one of these fantastic fishing holes—perfect for pint-sized anglers.

61. Meet Amanda, the darling blind calf, and other rescued farm animals at this animal sanctuary.

62. Take a tour where you can watch 747, 777 and 787 Dreamliners being assembled on the production line before they take to the sky.

63. It’s no secret that the Emerald City has some amazing views. Thanks to these family-friendly restaurants you can dine while enjoying some jaw-dropping scenery.

64. Speaking of amazing views, here’s where to snap a selfie in front of the city’s best scenery.

65. We’re hard-pressed to find any kid who doesn’t love ice cream. Indulge your little one's sweet tooth at one of our favorite ice cream parlors.

66. Seek out the city’s best stroller-friendly routes for baby and you.

67. Rain or shine, head to one of the city's best new playgrounds for plenty of energy burnin’ fun.

68. Rent a cabin or yurt. Your kids will love it!

69. Find one of Bellevue’s historic spots that happens to have a secluded swim beach nearby.

70. If you love craft beer, grab a pint with your pint-sized peeps at one of these Seattle brewhouses who not only welcome kids, but cater to them.

71. Want to be wowed with the city’s food scene and find something on the menu to please palates of all ages? Beeline it to one of these restaurants that are parent and kid approved.

72. Home to awesome sculptures, giant art and interactive beauty—the Olympic Sculpture Park is a great way to get your kids appreciating art.

73. Find a shady spot to enjoy an outdoor meal with plenty of room for kids to roam.

74. A garden center might seem like an unlikely attraction for kids, but Swansons Nursery is a perfect spot to do some fish watching, participate in fun monthly activities and even meet reindeer and a friendly camel during the holidays.

75. What kid doesn’t like to nosh on these ring-shaped, filled, glazed or powdered treats? Or how about these gluten-free varieties.

76. Stuck in a park rut? Check out these parks you might not know about. Got a kid who loves to go fast? Head to one of these popular spots known for their uber-cool slides

77. From kid-friendly restaurants and toy stores, to awesome bookstores and beaches, this Eastside locale was made for families.

78. Got visiting grandparents? Plan a skip-gen playdate at one of these spots folks from any generation will love.

79. Visit these markets that are open year-round, and each have their own distinct vibe.

80. These gorgeous and easy hikes are perfect for the 5 and under set. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Hit this popular trail east of the city.

81. Satisfy your kiddo’s sweet tooth with a fully loaded shave ice from one of our favorite spots.

82. Make your kiddo’s fairytale dreams come true when you plan a staycation at one of these unforgettable treetop spots.

83. Got early risers? Here’s where to take them so the rest of your crew can sleep.

84. If you’ve got a kiddo who’s sights are set on the stars, check out these otherworldly spots.

85. Take your little chocolate lovers to one of these Seattle cafes that serve cups of hot chocolate that are a step above the rest.

86. If you’ve done the local playground circuit more than you can count, branch out into new territory.

87. Sunday brunch is the new Friday night! Head to one of these spots that are a bit fancier than your local diner, but definitely kid-friendly.

88. Fly a kite at one of these picturesque spots around the city.

89. Spray parks and wading pools are a way of life for Seattle kids in the summer, and (fingers crossed) they plan to be open this year. Put them on your list!

90. Want to go a bit higher? Take your little daredevils to this aerial adventure park known for its extensive high ropes course and three zip lines.

91. We’ve never met a kid who doesn’t love pizza. Here’s where to indulge in a perfect pie when you and your kids are craving the good stuff.

92. From farms and museums, to mountain hikes and bike rides, make a day of it in this gateway town.

93. Take an island day trip. Or make it a weekend and go here!

94. Introduce your kids to this exciting team sport that has a simple concept.

95. Check off a visit to Georgetown’s own Hat n’ Boots park from your family bucket list.

96. You don't have to go far to find adventure in one of our state's spectacular national parks. In fact, two are just a short ferry ride away!

97. Learn about local history when you visit this lighthouse in the city. It was illuminated by a kerosene lamp for 44 years before it went fully electric.

98. Sit down with your bestie while the kids play nearby at one of Seattle’s best neighborhood coffee shops.

99. Take the sweetest ride in Seattle and learn a few fascinating facts about our hometown when you do.

100. A visit to our state capitol is a must for any Seattleite. Plus, it’s easier than you’d think with kids in tow.

—Allison Sutcliffe & Kristina Moy

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All Things Spring! 50+ Fantastic Activities to Put on Your Calendar

by Allison SutcliffeApril 15, 2021

Spring has sprung! If the changing season has inspired you to find new things to do with the kids, our spring bucket list is a worthwhile companion. It’s chock full of secret gardens, farms adventures, pop-up drive-ins, plus Seattle’s best classes, fairs and fests for families. Read on to make your plans.

Editor’s note: Please remember to wear masks and follow social distancing and group size guidelines when enjoying these activities. Have a safe and healthy spring!

This article is sponsored by Little Tikes®, which offers a variety of toys that’ll turn your backyard into a springtime playground. From water and outdoor kids’ toys to playhouses, ride-on cars and so much more, children two to six years old will be entertained for hours. To learn more about Little Tikes®’ products, visit littletikes.com.

1. It’s back! Everyone’s favorite flower festival is welcoming families to the Skagit Valley once again. Grab your tickets while you can!

2. All aboard! Your little conductor will love going clickety clack down the track on this scenic train ride where kids can meet the Easter Bunny or enjoy a special brunch with mom on Mother’s Day.

3. Your wee royal wannabe will swoon at the chance to sleep overnight in a real castle. You bring the crowns!

4. Jiminy Cricket! This drop-in cooking class for kids will have you wishing on a star.

5. Hop on the ferry! It's time for a daycation to this nearby island where you’ll find pirates in the park, family kayaking adventures and a reuse art studio creative kiddos will love.

6. Moo, baa, fa la la your way over to this south end farm where you’ll find cuddly baby animals, spring blooms and farm activities that’ll wear out your crew.

7. Gorillas don’t live in the forests of the PNW… or do they? You might find one, alongside oversized flowers and a friendly dino, at this outdoor sculpture park.

8. Oh. My. Stars! You won’t believe who you’ll see on the big screen at this spring’s drive-in Movies at Marymoor series.

9. If Mount Pilchuck hikes and furry alpaca friends sound like your ideal family adventure, you’ve gotta check this out!

10. Plan a family day exploring this popular garden. Be sure to bring your cape—they’re recruiting super stewards just in time for spring!

11. Plan your egg-stra special Easter with these safe city-wide events.

12. Shhh….this secret city waterfall is the perfect place to picnic when the sun is out.

13. You’ll wonder if fairies are among the inhabitants of this magical treehouse you can rent on Orcas Island. Can you say epic vacay?

14. Sit down with your crew to enjoy an episode (or two) of Sunnyside Up, South End Stories’ newest creative endeavor. Hint: puppets are part of the fun!

15. Immerse yourself (and your Littles) in the diverse Asian Pacific American experience when you visit this museum in the ID.

16. Even if you don’t have a tricked-out van, you can still high tail it over to this lakeside destination where families can float, fish and visit the Old West town just down the road.

17. Visit your barnyard besties for free at this Eastside farm park on a weekday. You can hike the trails, enjoy a snack and even fly a kite when you’re done. Psst… here’s another Eastside fave—kids can even feed their farmyard friends here.

18. April is Financial Literacy Month, and we couldn’t think of a better way celebrate than with this April 20th workshop that teaches parents 10 terrific tips that help kids learn financial responsibility.

19. Carve out a little peace, quiet and picnic time at one of these botanical gardens that will be bursting with colorful blooms all season long.

20. See North America’s only desmostylian (and other mysterious creatures) at this recently opened spot that’s steeped in area history.

21. Grab your magnifying glass and strike your best Sherlock pose. You’ll need both for this detective event where kids track down “wild” clues, or this one that’s a little closer to home.

22. This popular variety show has gone virtual this year. You and the kids won’t want to miss out on the belly laughs, musical performances and general pageantry; it runs from April 1-4.

23. Turn your living room into a home theater to enjoy the 47th annual SIFF. Don't forget to pop the popcorn!

24. Avatars on! Bring the kids for a private gaming sesh at this multi-sensory experience that really pushes reality’s edge.

25. Keep learning about Black history around the city at these museums, art exhibits, playgrounds and parks.

26. Mark your calendar for April 17. You won't want to miss this daylong farm event bat lovers of all ages will love.

27. Sink putts, throw axes and reach new climbing heights at this outdoor family adventure park north of the city.

28. Earth Day is April 22. Celebrate our home planet with a guided nature walk at this nearby preserve on April 9 or a family fun run on the 17th.

29. The sky is falling! The sky is falling! Or is it? Suss out the truth when you sit down with the kids to enjoy this timeless classic.

30. Need a weekend escape? Why not welcome the new vintages at this family-friendly wine destination on the lake.

31. Mark your calendars for the return of the Washington State Spring Fair! April 7-11 and 14-18 families can ride the rides, eat the food, see the monster trucks and even stay for a late night show after the sun sets. Tickets are a must at this hybrid drive-thru/step-out experience.

32. They say a rose by any other name would smell as sweet. Test out the theory at this little-known garden celebrating the Bard.

33. If new adventures are your goal, check out this peculiar, yet totally adorable, spot you’ll be glad you stumbled upon.

34. Baby animals, riverside fishing and French cheese making is what this fantastic spot is all about.

35. When was the last time you visited Snoqualmie Falls? It’s always worth the trip!

36. Who needs windmills when you can sink putts alongside ride-able rainbow unicorns and emoji plinko at this indoor course.

37. You’ll find bubbling mineral springs and an old homestead cabin on this easy national park hike kids of any age can handle.

38. A virtual festival run by children for children? Count us in! Be sure to save the date—it’s April 17.

39. The littlest lords and ladies can get their fill of minstrel songs, maypole dancing and creative crafting at this outdoor May Day celebration.

40. Celebrate Japanese American culture and the blossoming cherry trees at this beloved annual festival that’s moved online this year. Mark your calendars for April 9-11 so you don’t miss it!

41. This park has one of the best views in the city, and it’s just the right size for bitty bikers and always-on-the-go toddlers.

42. It’s the Northwest Folklife Festival’s 50th anniversary! Join the can’t-miss virtual celebration full of songs, dances and festivities galore over Memorial Day weekend.

43. Pack your socks and masks and make a play date to visit this Eastside favorite where kids can climb, slide and ride a soft merry-go-round on an overcast day.

44. Bring your budding artists to this ceramics studio where you can paint outside and people watch on a warm afternoon.

45. Can’t get into Moto? No problem! These pizzerias are serving up the best slices in town for pick-up and delivery.

best tidepools near Seattle — Allison Sutcliffe

46. Calling mini marine biologists! Bring your buckets and rain boots for a little shore searching at this lighthouse park.

47. Who wants to camp when you can glamp at one of these spots that reimagine family camping.

48. For those days when the kids are bouncing off the walls, let them swing from the “vines” at this safari-themed indoor play space that recently re-opened.

49. Team up with the Woodland Park and Point Defiance zoos for a nature challenge. How many wild plants and animals can you find?

50. How do you make Stone Soup? Find out how, and make a steamy pot of your own at this fairy tale kitchen class.

51. If reviving your pandemic garden is on your spring to-do list, let the kids choose tasty starts to plant now and eat later at this local annual favorite… don’t forget your pollinators!

52. Whether you want to go birding, geocaching or Hobbit house hunting, be spontaneous in your outdoor adventures this spring!

—Allison Sutcliffe

feature photo: iStock

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Recall Alert: Western Chief Toddler Boots Sold Exclusively at Target

by Karly WoodDecember 22, 2020

Washington Shoe Company has issued a recall for its Western Chief PVC Lighted Rain Boots. The rivets used to attach the handles to the boot can detach which poses a choking hazard to children.

This affected boots were sold exclusively at Target stores and Target.com and include the Western Chief “Abstract Camo,” “Alia Silver,” and “Sweetheart Navy” Light-Up Rain Boots in sizes 5-12 for toddlers or children. The boots were sold from May 2020 through Oct. 2020 for about $25.

The boot colors include camouflage, silver glitter, and navy with hearts. The boots have handles, a light up feature in the heel of the boot and silver-gray rivets.

The recalled boots will have “Western Chief” and the model numbers printed on the inside tag of the boot. Affected model numbers include T24121725P, T24121728P, and T24121729P.

Parents should stop using the boots and return them to a Target store for a full refund. So far, Washington Shoe Company has received 115 reports of the boot handles and rivets detaching but no injuries.

Sold At:

––Karly Wood

All photos: CSPC

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Fall Family Strategy: Get Outside (And Dress Accordingly)

by #MomLifeNovember 3, 2020

Andrea Hartman

Mom to 3, styling real life in Portland, Oregon

As the cold and rainy season moves in, figuring out how to survive a COVID/quarantine winter has been top of mind for me. Summer made living in a quarantine relatively easy because we could do so much outside. But now, the warm days are gone, replaced with clouds and cold temps. Normally, the Oregon winter drives me indoors, save a few dog walks, but this year I am vowing to do things differently.
COVID has changed how I view so much, and one thing is my perspective on the outdoors. For too long I have taken living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest for granted. However, right now, the outdoors is the #1 option our family has for doing anything fun outside the house. And this mom is determined to find a way to make it work.
There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing, right? I think that’s how the expression goes. We just need the right layers.
This is what my family is wearing to stay warm in the outdoors this fall and winter.
Last weekend we headed to a local arboretum to see the fall colors and brave the brisk temps. Side note: face masks make great face warmers! We wore ours too but took them off for photos.
It’s truly amazing what being outdoors does for everyone’s spirits. Something about being under the open sky makes the kids feel freer and I feel more at ease.

We are currently brainstorming a list of local hikes to hit this fall and winter. I’d like to get to the coast and show the kids Ft. Stevens, I think they’d enjoy the history. I also came across this very comprehensive list of Oregon hikes, and can’t wait to tackle some of them!
One silver lining of this Covid era: we might just become more outdoorsy people, and I am excited about that.

1

Patagonia Cord Fjord Coat

A unicorn jacket because it's both warm (600 fill power!) and stylish (hello corduroy!)

$299

I often tend to shy away from the outdoors when it gets cold because most technical jackets just don't jive with my style. This Cord Fjord Coat is great because it's way more interesting than your typical puffer. It has a slight vintage vibe, but the fit is more relaxed, which makes it feel modern. The flannel and corduroy fabric feel so much more cozy than your typical nylon-y fabric.

BUY NOW

2

A18 Watch Hat

A pop of color makes cloudy days less dreary

$16.99

This hat has become a staple for our family members because it's soft, warm, and comes in so many colors. I also love that it's made in the USA!

BUY NOW

3

Nike Heritage Fanny Pack

Hands-free hiking is a must!

$25

The little pack is sleek and small, perfect for wearing around your waist, *under* your coat, or slung crossbody *over* your coat. Either way, it's a lot easier than carrying a traditional purse!

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4

Water-resistant chelsea boot

Another shining example of function AND style

$230

These boots are my go-to for the outdoors right now because they are warm, comfortable, and can stand up to wet weather. I really love that they look like normal, everyday boots and not 'technical' or rain boots.

BUY NOW

5

Washed Duck Jacket

Workwear for city life

$129.99

We are very much urban types, who are striving to be outdoors more, and this jacket is the best of both worlds. It's sturdy, industrious and warm, yet it has a sleek, polished look to it with flap pockets and snap closures.

BUY NOW

6

Columbia Heavenly Long Hooded Jacket (Women's)

Sleek and cozy, good for women and 'tweens

$149.99

My 11-year-old loves this jacket because the slim fit makes her feel grown up, and the long length keeps her warm. Bonus: there are thumb holes in the sleeves that she uses approximately 100% of the time.

BUY NOW

7

Girls’ Sherpa Fleece

So soft and warm, it's wearable 24/7

$39.99

This one is a bit like a blanket with a zipper. It's so snuggly I catch my daughter wearing it almost every day. It's a great base layer, and would work well under a parka on colder days.

BUY NOW

8

Carhartt Flannel Quilt Lined Jacket

Looks like a sweatshirt, acts like a jacket

$69.99

My little boy hates wearing coats and instead lives in hoodies. This jacket is a bit of a hero for us because it looks like a hoodie, but with the canvas outside and quilted inside, it's a sneaky winter coat!

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9

Kids' Acrylic Watch Hat

Beanies in u-pick colors!

$9.99 BUY NOW

My kids love to show their personalities with what they wear, including their favorite colors. I love these beanies because they are bright and colorful, but not over the top. Heck, they're even cool. My kids like them because they're soft.

The Simple Magic of a Costume

By Heather Harrell

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

October 6, 2020

Photo: Jason Hafso on Unsplash

I often wonder why costumes are so special to children. One of my children would get stuck on a particular costume for months—wearing the same thing every day. As a preschooler, he seemed to really believe that he would fly a rescue helicopter if he just had the right gear on. He would leave his “rescue helicopter pilot suit” by his bed at night, a suit which included the jumpsuit, rain boots, and a bike helmet to which he attached the plastic lid of a fruit container and some pipe cleaners to look like a mask and microphone. One night he showed up at my bed, fully dressed in his rescue helicopter pilot suit, telling me the airport had called—there was an emergency and he had to go fly the helicopter. It was 3 a.m.; he was 4 years old.

Then he moved onto the Santa costume—beard and all. He wore that for more than a month. He wore Santa pajamas to Christmas Eve service and threw a sport coat and bowtie on only to appease me—and to perhaps get even higher on Santa’s good list. After all, he had asked Santa for some pixie dust for Christmas that year so that he could fly like Santa’s reindeer.

Though he never flew a helicopter or like Santa’s reindeer, there was a common thread with these costumes—it seemed he really believed that the costume would ignite a bit of magic inside of him and he could then do the impossible. Or at least imagine the impossible in such real terms that it would change his very being. Regardless, there was a belief that magic is possible if you can only kindle that yearning within one’s self.

As adults, many of us also seem to be trying on costumes—costumes of the right job, the clothes which portray success, the good school for our kids, the impressive home in the right neighborhood, a place in the sought after social circles. These adult costumes are expensive, time-consuming, and surface-level for too many of us. We seek them out not to kindle something wonderful and inspiring inside us, but rather to fit others’ expectations of us. They are not about flying a rescue mission to save someone else, but rather to save ourselves from criticism or rejection.

We adults no longer believe in magic at all, let alone any magic within us—we understand the science behind what seems impossible; we know if it is too good to be true, it is a scam; and we are too busy to notice the enduring power of our actions, words, and relationships. We can become so frantic and drained trying to keep our heads above water that we are not still enough to hear the yearning within us. So many of us are overwhelmed with bad news and stress that we can’t see any magic in this world or believe we have any sort of power to change the world around us for the better. For so many of us grown-ups, we don’t see the disconnect between our inner yearnings and gifts and the artificial costumes of our lives.

What would our world look like if we adults sought costumes which kindle something wonderful in us? What if we adults recognized that kind words, selfless acts, and deep relationships are so powerful the effects cannot be explained by science alone? What if we took a bit of this time in quarantine to be still and listen for our yearnings, to see that we don’t need the expensive or “right” costumes to be happy, to understand the disconnect between our yearnings and our costumes? What if we started to admit that even though we are grown up there is yet a little flicker of magic within us and worked to build a costume that nurtures that magic into a roaring flame? What hope could we inspire, what joy could we bring, what change could we embody?

Heather Harrell

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Heather lives in Louisville, Kentucky with her husband, three sons, one dog, one bearded dragon, and one fish. She is a lawyer, but currently home with her children. When she is not mom-ing, she likes to spend time with her family and friends, watch documentaries, and go for a jog!

16 Signs You’re a Portland Parent

by stephanie boothSeptember 20, 2020

Parenting is a unique adventure regardless of which city you call home. But there’s no question, where you live, influenced how you parent, and Portland parents are a unique crew. Known as much for its health-conscious, eco-friendly culture and jaw-dropping landscape as it is for keeping daily life as weird as possible, there are certain traits that are clear indicators a parent is from Stumptown. Read on for 16 signs you’re a Portland parent.

Photo by Jason Lander via flickr

#1. Your kids are embarrassed on the days they have to drive, not walk or bike, to school. The biking culture is so popular in Portland that there are streets designated for bikers. Moms and dads are likely to have bikes that can seat one, two and even three kids on them as they commute to and from school and the store. Cars just aren’t cool here.

#2 Going to watch a parade means watching a lot of kids on unicycles. Seeing someone riding a unicycle used to be a rare thing. Not in Portland! It’s almost as popular with the kids as biking is. If you are planning on catching a local parade, you can expect to see a herd of kids on unicycles at some point. (Note: prepare for your kiddos to ask for their own unicycle after they see what the cool kids are doing).

#3 Your kids don’t think twice about people with brightly colored tattoos, multiple piercings, or tattoos. And you might just have all of the above as well. Let’s be honest, are you even really a Portland parent if you haven’t dyed your hair a strange color at least once or at least one tiny tattoo? Even if you have none of the above, you and your kids are used to seeing people who do.

# Your kids’ favorite hero doesn’t wear a cape, but he does dress in costume, ride a unicycle, and play flame-throwing bagpipes. It’s the Portland Unipiper! You’ve seen him on the internet, in the news…and at some point—in the streets. Your kids are as in awe of him as you are. If you’re a Portland parent, you know the Portland Unipiper is a local hero.

photo: Dana Orlosky via Flickr

#5 Mermaids are on parade. That’s right, Portland has its very own mermaid parade and its on beloved Una the Mermaid. Covid may have canceled this year’s celebration. But there’s no doubt, the queens of the sea will return.

#6 A city of books is one of your favorite family spots. That’s right, we are talking about Powell’s City of Books is a famous local book store that is giant like a small city within our beloved city. And there’s a room in it for everyone in your family though the Rose Room is likely a favorite (children’s books). photo by Jen V. on yelp

#8 Someone in your house has an allegiance to a Beaver or a Duck. Football is a thing here and the Civil War is big between the Oregon Ducks and the Oregon Beavers.

#9 Acupuncturist? Naturopath? Chiropractor? Your little yogis stay healthy in countless ways. Portlanders are health conscious and we like our natural approaches to holistic health. Chances are your kids learn yoga in Preschool and are familiar with supplements and herbs and aromatherapy.

#10 You know the importance of rain boots from November to June. But really, who needs an umbrella? It’s true, your kids likely have raincoats and rain boots, but are very unlikely to own an umbrella.

photo: Sharon via pexels

#11 You don’t go to the coast to get a tan. (That’s what those non-stop flights to Hawaii are for.) If you aren’t from Portland, you are likely to be confused by Portland families’ love for trips to the rugged—often chilly—coast. We don’t go to the coast to get tan, we go to explore trails and play with creepy sea creatures and freeze our toes off in the coooold water. We’re just weird like that.

#12 Drag Queens are a parent’s best friend. From drag brunches to Drag Queen storytimes, local families love hanging out with and being entertained and educated by the local drag queens. We are always an inclusive!

#13 You’re likely a bit of an activist. Moms and dads get involved in anything and everything involving human rights. From the Wall of Moms to parents showing their PRIDE, Portland parents are involved in making our community and the world a better place.

#14 You reserve campsites nine months in advance. (And you’re laughing aloud as you read this, because you know it’s true.) I mean, we love the outdoors and we will not miss out on a good campsite because we were too lazy to think ahead!

#15. You know that this article really could have been five stories — Signs You’re a SW/NW/SE/NE/N Parent — because we each love our own section of the city that much.

—Annette Benedetti

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6 State Park Campsites to Stake Out Now

by Allison SutcliffeJune 11, 2020

It’s been a long few months, parents, but we made it through. One of our rewards? It’s time to break out the s’mores because a few state parks just opened for camping June 1. So if loading the car with your tent, sleeping bags and a fully-stocked cooler sounds like what you and the kids need right now, here are a few spots where your crew enjoy the outdoors.

Cape Disappointment

Easily one of the most popular state parks in Washington, Cape Disappointment will be open for camping at 50% capacity starting June 1. When you pitch your tent here it’s easy to see why so many people love it. Not only is it close to the city, but it’s got views that are hard to beat, in every direction. Plan to explore the nearly eight miles of trails while you’re there and wander through what’s left of Fort Canby. And although you won’t be able to take a tour inside, the lighthouse makes for a fun hike. Be sure to pack binoculars for the kids, a fishing rod if you’ve got it and a metal detector too. Who knows what you’ll see (or find) when you’re out exploring!

Good to know: Although campsites are open, the interpretive center and other amenities are not.

244 Robert Gray Dr.
Ilwaco, WA
360-642-3078
Online: parks.state.wa.us