Community School
Family Resources
As a parent, finding the right resources to support your child’s growth and development can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re new to Portland or a long-time resident, we’ve gathered helpful suggestions, local resources, and links to guide you through the early years.
Parenting Support and Classes
• Portland Parents & Families Meetup Groups: Meet other parents in the area through organized playgroups, parenting workshops, and family-friendly events. Find a Group
• Parenting Now!: Offers parenting classes and resources designed to support parents of infants and toddlers. Their online and in-person workshops provide tools for navigating the joys and challenges of early parenthood. Learn More
Play and Development Activities
Fun and Educational Outings
• Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): While OMSI offers a lot for older kids, there’s also plenty for infants and toddlers. From hands-on exhibits to play areas specifically designed for little ones, it’s a perfect place to explore and learn together. Visit OMSI
• Portland Parks & Recreation: Check out local parks with excellent playgrounds, nature walks, and community centers offering toddler and preschooler programs. Find a Park
Indoor Play Spaces
• The Wiggle Room: Offering open play for infants and toddlers. Children develop motor skills, balance, and coordination through play. Check out The Wiggle Room
• Dig PDX: Oregon’s largest indoor sandbox! You’ll find dinos and construction vehicles in this indoor venue full of 100% natural, non-toxic sand. They sell drinks, snacks, merch, and alcoholic beverages. DigPDX
• The Children's Gym: Children crawling and up are invited to come and play during open gyms. Pre-registration required. Check out The Children's Gym
• St Johns' Swap and Play: A beloved neighborhood center. Nonprofit community-driven indoor play space where families connect, swap, and share resources. Visit here
Healthcare & Wellness
Pediatric Care
• OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital: One of the top-rated pediatric care providers in Portland, OHSU offers a full range of services for babies, toddlers, and young children. Visit OHSU Doernbecher
• Portland Pediatric Clinic: A trusted pediatric clinic offering comprehensive care for infants and preschoolers. They have resources on early childhood health, nutrition, and developmental milestones. Learn More
Parenting Wellness
• Postpartum Support International of Oregon: If you’re struggling with the emotional challenges of new parenthood, PSI provides support for new moms and dads. Their resources include support groups and one-on-one counseling. Visit PSI Oregon
• New Mom’s Wellness Group: Portland-based support groups providing resources and community for new parents. Learn More
• Baby Blues Connection is free and confidential support for parents experiencing post partum depression Baby Blues Connection
Parenting Articles & Blogs
Portland Parenting Blog
• The Portland Parent: A blog dedicated to all things Portland parenting, from the best family-friendly restaurants to tips on managing the chaos of daily life with kids. Read The Portland Parent
Helpful Parenting Articles
• Parenting Tips for New Moms and Dads: Tips on everything from feeding your infant to managing sleep schedules. Read the Tips
• Positive Discipline for Preschoolers: Learn about effective discipline strategies that encourage healthy emotional development in preschool-aged children. Read More
Local Parent & Family Events
Portland’s Family Events Calendar
• Kid-friendly Events in Portland: Check out this regularly updated calendar for family-friendly events happening across Portland, including festivals, live performances, and more. View the Calendar
Weekly Playgroups and Parent Meetups
• Portland Baby & Toddler Meetups: A great resource for finding local meetups where parents and children can connect and play together in a supportive environment. Join a Meetup
Parenting is a journey, and it’s easier when you have a community to support you. Whether you’re navigating the first few months with an infant or looking for enrichment opportunities for your preschooler, Portland offers an abundance of resources, activities, and support.