Growing up in the Pacific Northwest comes with a unique set of truths that every kid knows. Here are 11 of them:
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Open-Minded from the Start
Kids here are raised to be accepting and progressive. With families often embracing liberal values, they’re likely to be at the forefront of social change. After all, we did vote to legalize gay marriage and cannabis in the same year. Our little ones will probably be the first to champion the next significant cause as well. -
Seahawks Support is Mandatory
Cheering for the Seahawks is a rite of passage, even for those in Portland. We once held the Guinness World Record for the loudest football crowd, and that was before our Super Bowl win! Kids here automatically become part of the “12th Man” and take that role seriously. -
Umbrellas? What Umbrellas?
Most families don’t bother with umbrellas, if they even own one. Here, using an umbrella in the rain is practically a tourist move. Instead, raincoats with hoods are the norm, and hats—especially if they sport a Seahawks logo—occasionally make an appearance. -
Rain Boots Are a Fall Essential
Every autumn, it’s tradition to get a new pair of colorful rain boots. Kids love showing off their shiny footwear, often paired with shorts—even in winter! And don’t worry; the rain isn’t as frequent as the rumors suggest. It’s just a tall tale we tell to keep the Californians at bay. -
Adventure Awaits
These kids grow up surrounded by stunning landscapes, climbing trees, skiing, biking, and boating. When parents say, “Go take a hike,” they mean a family stroll through the woods. Birkenstocks and socks are a common sight, even in drizzly weather. -
Friendly Crosswalks
In the Pacific Northwest, drivers stop for pedestrians without hesitation. This kindness can create a false sense of security for kids when they venture to other cities, where they might find themselves nearly run over. But hey, at least they develop quick reflexes! -
Coffee Connoisseurs by Age 12
By the time they hit 12, most kids can order at least eight different coffee beverages. This habit likely contributes to their fast reflexes; after all, parents aren’t the only ones with coffee cups in hand. For kids, sipping on coffee is completely acceptable once they reach double digits. -
Crunchy Granola for Breakfast
Kids here start their mornings with crunchy granola, and even the most traditional parents find time for yoga or weekend farmers’ markets. They might even have a healer or two, and they don’t bat an eye at organic toothpaste choices—Tom’s of Maine, anyone? -
Kid-Friendly Health Practices
Youngsters often have their own “kid” healers. Their primary care providers might be naturopaths, acupuncture is common, and they may have seen a chiropractor for those pesky migraines. -
Food Sensitivity Experts
Kids quickly learn that their ailments often stem from food sensitivities. Whether it’s dairy causing their little sister’s issues or soy linked to migraines, gluten-free and nut-free diets are just part of growing up here—think of them as the electives of middle school! -
Home-Cooked Meals with a Twist
While home-cooked meals dominate, these kids are well-versed in the world of street food. Families enjoy food trucks, teriyaki spots, and farmers’ markets, ensuring their diets are organic, non-GMO, and free from pesticides—except for the eggs, which come straight from the backyard coop.
Living in the Pacific Northwest teaches kids to embrace their individuality while being part of a unique community. Whether it’s navigating the rain in their beloved polar fleece or enjoying an adventure outdoors, they learn to stand out while fitting in.
For more insights on family and parenting, check out our other blog posts, such as this one on home insemination.
Summary:
Kids in the Pacific Northwest grow up with a blend of open-mindedness, unique traditions, and a deep appreciation for their environment. From mandatory Seahawks fandom to navigating a world of organic food and friendly drivers, these truths shape their identities and experiences.