Dear Parent and Caregivers,
As we reach the close of the year, we are filled with pride as we reflect on the remarkable growth we have seen in our students. Each child's journey — whether learning new skills, making new connections, or building greater confidence — has been inspiring.
Throughout a year marked by staffing challenges, our dedicated team remained steadfast in their commitment to providing the highest quality support and care. This progress was made possible not only by the hard work of our staff, but also by the partnership and trust we share with you. Together, we have nurtured and supported your child's growth, and we celebrate these achievements as a shared success.
We remain hopeful for the future. Our agency has been a strong advocate for increased funding to support early learning services, and we are optimistic that our efforts will lead to a more stable and promising outlook for the coming years.
Thank you for being partners with us in this work — your trust, involvement, and encouragement inspire us daily. We look forward to building on the strong foundation we’ve created together and to even brighter days ahead for your children.
As we finish out this year, we would love to hear from you. If you have suggestions, comments, or feedback regarding this Caregiver Connection newsletter, please feel free to email askearlylearning@nwresd.k12.or.us, we would love to hear from you!
Warmly,
Stacy Rager
Executive Director of Early Learning
Northwest Regional Education Service District
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“Spending time outdoors can positively impact sleep quality in individuals with autism. Nature exposure can lead to reduced stress and improved mood, which are crucial for better sleep.” -Bierman Autism Centers
Connecting in the Outdoors & Supporting Sleep
Spring is here, and with summer approaching soon the sun is calling us to get outside and connect through exploration and play in the outdoors!
Why is this important?
We all know that sleep, or lack of sleep, can have a negative impact on how we show up each day. We also know that for autistic children sleep can be very challenging. Our children may have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.
This can make navigating their daily routines extra difficult because their bodies are tired. Getting outside can help. Exposure to natural light can support a child’s natural ability to sleep more soundly by supporting their circadian rhythm.
What is a circadian rhythm?
Circadian rhythm is like an internal clock. It is a biological process that follows a roughly 24-hour cycle that influences sleep patterns, although the clock can look different in autism. The primary cue that synchronizes the circadian rhythm is exposure to light. When babies and toddlers get outside and are exposed to natural light, it helps to regulate their circadian rhythms, which can improve their sleep quality and duration at night.
Preschoolers benefit from natural light exposure, particularly in the morning, to help regulate their circadian rhythm and promote good sleep. You will want to aim for at least 15 minutes of bright light exposure upon waking, ideally outdoors, so let’s get outside! Read more about the importance of light exposure.
For some autistic children, wandering (or running off) can be a concern and getting outside often may be restricted to more enclosed spaces like your backyard or a small playground. These are both great options for exposure to natural light. If this sounds like your child, check out some of the smaller more inclusive parks and playground options found in the links below.
For families that may be able to be a bit more adventurous and want to explore the outdoors more freely, we have also included links to some of the larger outdoor parks and recreation areas to explore across the Northwest Region below also.
Regional Parks and Outdoor Activity Areas
Enjoy exploring & playing outside!
Camp Carrots
Portland State University has partnered with Parkwood Clinic this summer. Thanks to their generosity, Parkwood Clinic can offer 40 Camp Carrots Scholarships for children ages 2-5 this year.
To be eligible for the full scholarship the child must have OHP for primary or secondary insurance. Parkwood Clinic also must have a current feeding evaluation. Inquire with Parkwood Clinic or another private provider if you need to get a feeding evaluation. Learn more about Camp Carrots.
Children’s Relief Nursery Parenting Group
This group welcomes families with children birth to six years old to join families from around the community to share parenting experiences, learn from each other, and learn from our kids.
When: Every Thursday, May 8–June 26 • 4–6 pm
Location: LifeWorks NW Children’s Relief Nursery (1340 E. Main St., Hillsboro, OR 97123)
In this FREE reflective parenting group, attendees will gain new insights into supporting healthy growth for every member of the family, including:
- You’ll learn how to be bigger, stronger, wiser and kind to understand your child’s needs
- Strengthening your bond as caregiver and child
- Focusing on building a circle of security in the family
View the informational flyer.
Summertime is right around the corner.
Here are some links for some fun things to do with family and friends!
PALs Program - Refer a Friend
Our Early Learning team is now accepting applications for typically developing peers to join our Promoting Acceptance in Learning (PALs) classes for the 2025-26 school year. These preschool classes bring together children with and without disabilities in a fun and supportive learning environment. Our goal is to cultivate a space where all children can benefit from diverse social interactions, collaborative learning and acceptance.
If you have friends or family who would be interested in having their child participate as a PAL, please share this opportunity.
Learn more about and apply for your child to be a PAL.
Clatsop County
The Harbor in Clatsop County offers bi-weekly Spanish support workshops. View upcoming opportunities.
Clatsop Behavioral Health is offering Nurturing Parenting and Active Parenting of Teens this spring!
Tillamook County
Tillamook Family Counseling Center is offering a Co-regulation Workshop for Parents & Caregivers of Children in Tillamook County:
Tuesday, May 13, 2025,
6-7:30pm Virtual on Zoom email melissacs@tfcc.org to register.
Co-regulation helps a child soothe their emotions and manage stress and is vital for building healthy relationships and fostering emotional well being.
Interested in Free Preschool?
Preschool applications for the 2025-26 school year are now open! Visit our free preschool page to learn more about free preschools in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties.
You can also learn more about Preschool Promise and Head Start.
We have office hours in your county to help you with applying. Click here for more information.
Lantern - Open to Everyone!
Because kids don’t come with instructions, we’re here to help one text message at a time.
- FREE, easy, practical tips and information for parents & caregivers.
- Messages timed exactly to your child’s due date or date of birth.
- Information about free services and events based on your zip code.
Text : BRIGHT To: 274 448
Visit Lantern's Facebook page for more information.
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