Oregon is an amazing state to explore from beaches to mountains, ancient forests to caves! Here's our collection of resources for exploring, including some fun books to get you and yours excited about outdoor adventures, wherever they may take you.
Read MoreGrowing up, body positivity was not a term I heard. Now raising my kids, I am acutely aware of messages about bodies (their abilities and differences) and facing questions from my kids about how bodies work. Here are some picks for cultivating a sense of awareness of our amazing, fascinating, and sometimes bizarre bodies.
Read MoreEverybody has a body! Even at a young age, kids notice bodies (their abilities and differences) and start asking questions about how bodies work. Here are some picks for cultivating a sense of awareness of our amazing, fascinating, and sometimes bizarre bodies to share with toddlers and preschoolers.
Read MoreProviding the vocabulary to talk about our mental state is such an incredible tool in raising emotionally intelligent, supportive, and resilient kids. Not sure about how to start talking to your kid about mental health? We've gathered both Internet resources and books to talk to kids of all ages about their emotions, feelings, and mental health.
Read MoreNavigating a divorce while parenting can be a complex, fraught challenge. While no book is a substitute for conversations and listening to your child, these titles seek to provide some support for both parent and child for understanding a new family structure.
Read MorePotty training! That thrilling, mundane, patience-testing milestone. Sometimes talking and reading about these changes can help. Here are some picks to share.
Read MoreBabies get bigger, it's just what they do! Navigating the changes of toddler life can be quite the task. With a little encouragement (and maybe reading about it), your little might be ready to try out some big kid stuff and say goodbye others.
Read MoreHundreds of refugees come to Oregon each year in hopes of finding a safe place to live. In fact, since 1975 Oregon has welcomed more than 60,000 refugees. Refugees came from all over the world, but most arriving in Oregon in recent years come from Ukraine, Somalia, Cuba, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Here are some incredible resources created for kids to introduce the stories, history, and experiences of refugees.
Read MoreIn addition to wonderful first experiences, children also have their first encounters with less positively-associated subjects, including death. While no book is a substitute for gentle conversations and listening to your child, these titles seek to provide some structure and support for navigating the challenges of a subject often ignored.
Read MoreHow do we help our kids (and face it, ourselves!) become more web smart? Try out some family guides that help kids learn more about becoming information literacy experts. In addition, kids can take their first steps as informed citizens with kid-focused news sites. All of these resources are great to explore as a family, sharing with your child the importance of being knowledgeable, perceptive web users.
Read MoreFrom noticing the colors and textures to digging deeper into the symmetry and mathematics of plants, there is a lot to discover and enjoy. Creating temporary art with plants is an easy way to encourage kids to notice these patterns and create some of their own.
Read MoreChildren of all ages benefit from experiencing art processes and materials without the goal of a particular product that can be stuck on the fridge or given as a present. Process art can seem messy and daunting but there are some tricks for making it an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Read MoreWhat happens when the books from our youth contain language, stereotypes, and situations that are problematic? As librarians, we don’t have all the answers for you, but here are our tips for approaching those classics that have ideas and ideals that may not match your current views.
Read MoreThese books encourage children (and their grownups) to slow down and bring their awareness to the present moment. Mindfulness for kids might mean taking time to explore a flower or to taste a single strawberry. Just like grownups, being mindful can support children in navigating strong emotions or worry. These mindful titles encourage us all to take a breath with awareness, to be in the moment, and to practice kindness to ourselves and others.
Read MoreWelcoming a new baby into your home is an amazing experience. And incredibly overwhelming! Those of us who have been there have appreciated some help along the way. Yes, you can definitely read books, but let's be honest, while a newborn sleeps a lot, you'll need rest too! Here are suggestions for support, including some local agencies.
Read MoreMath, science, art...baking has it all! Whether you've got a toddler or tween, it's never too early to get in the kitchen and start baking together. Yes, there will be a mess, but it will be worth it! And there are some things you can do to minimize the potential wildness.
Read MoreThere is so much excitement when your family grows. Making the transition from single child to more can be a monumental change, especially for the soon-to-be-no-longer-only child. Here are some of our favorite books for sharing with your child from pregnancy to becoming a big sibling.
Read MoreIn a culture where it is easy to consume, purchase, and receive, it can be a challenge to instill a sense of gratitude. Balance with that the want to provide joy, excitement, and enrichment for our kids. Here are some ideas of sharing thankfulness as a family.
Read MoreHere we share some reliable resources for current information about issues confronting parents during the pandemic. You'll find videos, webinars, podcasts, and more. Perhaps you'll find something that helps you to make a difficult decision, or to cope with your own or your child's stress. We are here for you!
Read MoreParenting can be really hard. And with so much uncertainty and isolation, finding support can really make a difference. Fortunately, there are several local groups offering parenting classes, support groups, and other services for Clackamas County families.
Read MoreParting with things, especially books, is never easy. Here are some tips on how to go through your book collection with your kids.
Read MoreKids are natural scientists. As a grownup without much of a science background, it can be daunting to try an experiment at home, because I feel like I don't have the vocabulary or knowledge to answer my kids' questions. But, it really doesn't matter! Science is about discovery, questioning and exploring. Look for the answers together! And just enjoy the process.
Read MoreLGBTQIA+ Picture Books & Parenting Resources
Read MoreI'm a librarian, so of course I love books and reading, but when I'm feeling wiped out it feels so much more appropriate to plug in my earbuds, press play, close my eyes, and listen.
Read MoreParenting is hard. Having big discussions, even with other grownups much less kids, can feel daunting. Navigating what to share, how much detail and all of the other decisions can make you feel like it’s easier just not to talk about it. But kids know stuff happens. They hear it from friends, hear their grownups ...
Read MoreWith actual trips taking a bit of a hiatus, it's a great time to go on world travel from the comfort of your home. Grab a globe or a map, your imagination and your computer to craft an amazing adventure for your family. These resources are fantastic for planning your virtual trips.
Read More