Friday, January 27, 2012

Parenting in the Gorge Guide for Hood River and Wasco Counties

It's everything you'd like to know about opportunities & resources for parents - welcome baby resources, library story times, playgroups, wonderworks playstation, parenting classes for toddlers to teens!

OMSI's Earth from Space Exhibit at the Hood River Library

A colorful 3-foot globe, the “Magic Planet”, with dazzling displays and video films projected onto its inside surface, is now at the Hood River Library. The NASA-designed display, a part of an exhibit called “Earth From Space” was set up by the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is in Hood River from December 12th to January 31st.

Sensory Friendly Films

On the Second Saturday of every month at 9:30am, come to Hood River Cinemas for Sensory Friendly Movies. The lights are turned up so the movie isn't so bright, the sound is turned down so it's not so loud. G and PG Movies, siblings welcome.
In order to avoid crowds, the movie is shown early in the morning before the theater is open to the general public.  Call Kidsense at 541-386-0009 for more information.

Saturday, January 14th, it's "Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked" at 9:30am.

Mid Columbia Childcare Partners Website

Find childcare referrals and resources, information on parenting classes and upcoming events.

Being Absent from School Doesn't Add Up, Saving Money on Food, Local Health Fairs and more...

The Skamania County Parenting Network Newsletter has a ton of great info on Learn and Play Programs, Toxin Free Cleaning and some fun science projects!

Recommended Websites for Kids

The Hood River County Library announces that the Association of Library Services to Children has created a guide to parents for their child’s online use.  See their recommended websites for kids.

Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital Among Nation's Best

National Rural Health Association includes Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital in the list of top 100 Critical Access Hospitals. Read more on the Family Health Page.

Parent Involvement = Future Success

Parents are the most influential people in their children's career decisions. The Oregon Career Information System features this website just for Oregon parents of elementary, middle, high school and college students. It provides info on providing the tools you can use to act effectively on behalf of your children.

Parenting Today Class in Hood River

Strengthen your parenting skills and learn about your children's needs and development. Learn how to motivate your child through a positive approach to discipline, establishing family routines and household rules, problem solving, learning through play, and preparing your child for school success. A light refreshment is provided. For attending 11 out of 15 sessions, you will receive a $25 gift card for food or gas and a certificate of completion.

Open Enrollment Parenting Classes

Can't seem to get signed up for parenting classes by the time they start? New Parent Services has a more convenient class for you! Enroll anytime for either Hood River or The Dalles classes, get started anytime. This class series focuses on children ages 0-8.

Chatting with Kids about Being Online

This publication was put together by OnGuardOnline.gov which provides “practical tips from the federal government and the technology community to help you guard against internet fraud, secure your computers, and protect your privacy.

Good Parenting Support

Here are a few excellent places to check for information or to call when you, a parent or a teenager you know needs some quick support and help. Parent Trust for Washington Children.

Parent Trust Family Help Line: 1-800-932-HOPE (4673) - Toll-free in Washington State.
Washington State Teenline:1-800-562-1240