From the moment Ms. Frizzle and her class of curious kids board the bus for their first adventure, we and all the other kids in this packed audience were agape. (Literally – I looked down the row and saw nothing but open-mouthed faces and riveted eyes.)

The class travels around the globe to figure out why the weather’s so wacky these days, and in the course learn about habitats, animals and the relationship between people, our actions and the changes we can see in the seas or feel in the weather.

It’s a cautionary tale, to be sure, but it’s fraught not just with evergreen messages like, “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle,” but also fresh additions like “Rethink” how you do things and “Small Things Matter” (small people, it seems to imply, do too). And even this relatively educated adult appreciated the refresher on the science of the greenhouse effect.

Bottom line? Take the time to catch this bus. You’ll walk away with lots to think about, to be sure. But between the show’s catchy songs and fast-moving dialogue, lively staging, creative sets and imaginative use of simple effects to pull it all together, you’ll never even know you’re learning something.

Inside information: The Magic Schoolbus runs about an hour, with no intermission. Booster seats for smaller kids can help ensure their view; get yours at the coat check room.

The 411

Performance dates: Runs Saturdays at 2pm and 5pm; Sundays at 2pm thorough Feb. 19. Tickets: $16 to $30 adults, $13 to $26 youth, plus charges. Location: Newmark Theatre at the Portland Center for the Performing Arts’ Hatfield Hall, 1111 SW Broadway Contact: 503-228-9751; octc.org/onstage/magicschoolbus.

— Sarah Pagliasotti

There’s a lot to like, starting with solid performances from the cast, particularly Wonka himself. Then there are the familiar and surprisingly haunting tunes from the Oscar-nominated musical – you’ll be surprised to be reminded that this is where they came from. Add colorful costumes and creative sets, plus Oompa Loompas and the lure of an entire play devoted to candy, and it’s no wonder it’s a kid favorite – and one of mine, too.

One note: The show is pretty true to the book, which covers themes of greed and overindulgence. Part of this is an entire scene devoted to how much one child eats, and how fat he is as a consequence, which might make some uncomfortable. It’s a lighthearted scene, but could be worth a family chat prior to the show.

PS – Plan time to let your kids join the “meet and greet” afterward, where the cast will sign programs and take pictures with fans. Your kid may even be inspired to sign up for acting class. (NWCT offers classes and summer camps too!)

Inside information: Willy Wonka runs about an hour and a half plus a short intermission; it’s best for ages 6 and older. Smaller kids can often see better with a free seat cushion to lift them up; get there early to secure one from the back of the auditorium. If you have antsy ones the back row still has a great view and lets your kid stand up or fidget without blocking anyone’s view.

Saint Cupcake’s Golden Ticket Contest Visit Saint Cupcake Galore (1138 SW Morrison) this December and you could be one of five lucky Golden Ticket winners. Purchase one of Saint Cupcake’s limited edition “Wonka” cupcakes; if you find a Golden Ticket you’ll win:
• 4 tickets to Willy Wonka.
• A delicious assortment of treats from Saint Cupcake
• An autographed Willy Wonka poster, signed by the entire cast, AND
• A personal backstage tour after the show, led by Willy Wonka himself!

The 411

Performance dates: Runs through Jan. 1:
2:00 pm: Dec. 17, 18, 20-24, 27-31, & Jan. 1
7:00 pm: Dec. 16, 17, 21-23, & 28-30

Tickets: $18 to 22 adults, $13 to 18 youth, plus charges. Location: 1819 NW Everett St. Contact. 503-222-2190. nwcts.org.

– Sarah Pagliasotti

First, there’s the story, which takes a few twists but stays true enough to the original to satisfy devotees. Most importantly, it clips along, which is a welcome treat for parents. It also keeps those kiddos on their toes, not pandering, but still remaining accessible. All the while, smart dialogue and physical humor provide plenty of laughs for all ages.

Then, there’s the acting and puppetry. The first is superb. Three actors drive more than a dozen characters, both in costume and as puppeteers – and sometimes do both simultaneously for fascinating effect. The puppetry – in this case, a style called Sicilian rod puppetry – is transparent: you see the puppeteers, and yet you don’t notice them. There’s a seamless flow between actor/puppeteer and marionette.

The sets are minimal but incredibly effective, and simple changes make dramatic impact in the scene. The original accordion, piano, trumpet and cello music lend an old-world feel that, when combined with the sets and costumes, transport audiences to another place and time.

This coming weekend, amid all the Thanksgiving-day prep you might be doing, take an hour to see this show. You’ll have yet another reason to be thankful.

Inside information: Get there early and make puppets in the lobby before the show with the help of volunteers. Booster seats for $1 are a good idea for little ones. There are no bad seats in this intimate theatre; if your kids are antsy, the seats along the sides allow them to stand up without blocking anyone’s view.

The 411

Show times: Sat., Nov. 19 at 11 a.m. and Sun, Nov. 20 at 2 and 4 p.m.. Price: $20 adults; $17 kids 2-14 (under 2 free). Location: The Delores Winningstad Theatre in Portland Center for the Performing Arts; 1111 SW Broadway. Contact information: 503-248-0557; www.tojt.org.

— Sarah Pagliasotti

An all-you-can-eat buffet and several themed dining areas – think sports (“Hall of Fame”), cartoons (“Toon Time Theatre”) and more – occupy the right hand side of John’s Incredible Pizza. The buffet appeals to all ages, with an extensive salad bar, soup options, (heavenly!) bread sticks, a pasta section, several varieties of pizza and lots of dessert options.

On the left hand side of John’s is a mega-arcade, with dozens of games to play plus three rides, including bumper cars! Kids (and parents) collect tickets as they play to turn in for fun stuff when they’re done.

With all that fun awaiting them, it’s difficult to get the kids to concentrate on eating. But one thing that’s cool is that you can eat, then play, then come back and eat some more.

Insider Information: Come hungry! Because everyone must purchase an unlimited buffet to enter John’s, there’s no reason not to capitalize on that. Thankfully the rides and games are separate from the buffet and dining area – parents will appreciate this!

Use the Afterschool Special coupon on page 45 of this month’s issue of Metro Parent by Nov. 17! For $8 per person (adults and children, free 2 and under), you’ll receive unlimited buffet, beverages and 40 free fun credits. Offer valid Mon-Thurs 11 am to 4 pm. (Expires Nov. 17.)

The 411
Hours: Monday through Thursday: 11 am to 9:30 pm, Friday: 11 am to 10:30 pm, Saturday: 10 am to 10:30 pm, Sunday: 10 am to 9:30 pm.
Price for Buffet: The regular buffet price is $9.49 adult, $5.99 ages 7 to 12, and $4.49 ages 3 to 6. Adults pay only $6.99 for lunch Monday through Friday from 11 am to 3 pm. Kids 2 and under eat free with a paying adult. Unlimited drinks (purchased separately) are $1.79.
Price for Fun World: Each Fun World Credit is 25 cents, unless you purchase a FunCard special. Arcade games range from 2 to 5 credits; rides are 10 to 12 credits each.
Location: 9180 SW Hall Blvd., Beaverton
Contact Information: 503-520-0000. johnspizza.com.

With good reason – Pinkalicious the Musical is a pageant of pink that enchants even us earth-tone adults. The one-hour show – about a girl who loves pink so much she turns pink herself – is full of lively dialogue, catchy show tunes, and lots of laughs for little ones.

The small cast delivers a snappy and solid performance for all ages (and both genders – because as little brother Peter will tell you, boys like pink too!). Adults, especially, will appreciate the simple yet effective set changes and the extra nuance lent by the back-story about Pinkalicious’ dad.

After the show, take advantage of the free mini-cupcake offer from sponsor Cupcake Jones in the Pearl District. What better way to re-hash all the fun than over Pinkalicious’ favorite food, pink cupcakes?

(Note: Cupcake Jones closes at 6 pm Sundays, so if you attend the Sunday 5 pm show plan another outing to get your free cupcake).

Inside information: The Newmark is a large, yet intimate theatre where no seat is farther than 65 feet from the stage. You can buy tickets online, but you’ll save on Ticketmaster service fees by calling the OCT box office directly or stopping by in person.

To ensure your child’s view, spend a dollar for a soft booster seat (ask for pink!) from the coat check room. Allow time before and after the show for your children to pose in the photo booth, buy a souvenir wand, t-shirt or tutu, or meet the cast after the show. Avoid a long line for the latter by sitting near the back of the theatre so you can get to the ground floor quickly once the show ends.

The 411

Hours: Pinkalicious the Musical runs Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm and 5pm through through Nov. 20. Price: See website for ticket prices. Location: The Newmark Theatre is downtown at 1111 SW Broadway (across from the Schnitzer Auditorium); the OCT box office is in the 3rd floor of the Galleria Building, 600 SW 10th, Suite 313 and open Monday-Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Contact information: 503-228-9571; www.octc.org.

— Sarah Pagliasotti

My girls, 5 and 7, belly-laughed constantly, and remained rapt for the entire 85-minute show. They agreed it was “awesome and mischievous,” to quote Josie, 7. And though Junie B. isn’t always the poster child for good behavior, the play’s ending makes a great starting point for a family chat about doing the right thing.

Parents of boys, be assured: even though the main character is a girl, the show had the boys around us in stitches. Interesting boy characters (including Junie B.’s best friend), plus ample belching and sneezing jokes, keep them hooked.

The most fun for parents, though, is the chance to steal a glance at your kids while they’re mesmerized by the show, mouths open and eyes focused, and watching them laugh with their entire bodies at the funniest parts. That alone is worth the modest ticket price.

PS – Plan extra time to let your kids join the “meet and greet” afterward, where the cast signs programs and takes pictures with fans. Who knows? Your youngin’ may even be inspired to sign up for acting class. (NWCT offers classes and summer camps too!)

Inside information: Junie B runs about an hour and a half including a short intermission; it’s best for ages 5 and older. Smaller kids can often see better with a free seat cushion to lift them up; get seats early to secure one from the back of the auditorium. If you have antsy ones the back row still has a great view and lets your kid stand up or fidget without blocking anyone’s view. And, if you’re looking for an inexpensive post-show dinner, check out nearby Elephants Deli (NW 22nd and Couch) or Noodles and Company (NW 10th and Couch).

The 411

Performance dates: Runs thorough Oct. 30; check website for show times. Tickets: $18 to 22 adults, $13 to 18 youth, plus charges. Location: 1819 NW Everett St. Contact: 503-222-2190; nwcts.org.

– Sarah Pagliasotti

Lego fans of all ages will find plenty to play with and ogle – from detailed replicas of European castles to life-sized dragons and knights, to a catapult you can use against a simulated castle wall.

Like kids, Legos come in all sizes and all are provided here, so even very young and older kids will find an area created just for them: Giant rubber Legos in the toddler space; Lego Duplo bricks for preschoolers, and thousands of tiny pieces in the bigger kids’ “master builders” area. And the best part is, you don’t have to clean them out of your carpet when your kids are done.

Even non-Leg-ites will be enthralled by the royal exhibits and kids’ activities. My girls (5 and 7) were immediately drawn to the princess capes and shields and – once dressed for the occasion – sped off to the castle play area for sliding and play-acting. At the foam jousting field, they rode “horses” and aimed foam lances at targets (and not each other, to my great relief). We admired jewels and treasures in the King’s castle, and took a quick pass at the computerized building games. Eventually, though, the pull of the Legos themselves was too strong, and we settled in with the bricks to see how high a tower we could build.

Inside information: The Children’s Museum can be crowded on weekends, but the Lego exhibit is laid out nicely with plenty of room. For smaller crowds, go on weekdays after school or at the beginning or end of the day.

The 411

Hours: The Children’s Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday 9 am to 5 pm; Thursday 9 am to 8pm. Closed Monday except on PPS holidays. The show runs through Jan. 22, 2012 and is available during Museum hours. Price: The Lego show is included in Museum admission: free for Museum members; $9 for non-members ages 1 to 54, and $8 for seniors and military or if you buy general admission tickets online. Parking is an additional $2 per vehicle. Location: 4015 SW Canyon Road, across from the Oregon Zoo. Contact information: (503) 223-6500; www.portlandcm.org.

— Sarah Pagliasotti

Hopworks, recently named as one of Portland’s top family restaurants in our 2011 Readers Survey, is an organic microbrewery, a hip pizza joint, and a sustainably-minded family food haven all in one. Kids love the two inviting play areas; parents love getting a chance to speak three or four uninterrupted sentences to each other while kids play.

The real draw for families is the food. I love the hearty salads you can supplement with Draper Valley chicken, Painted Hills tri-tip or marinated and grilled portabellas. The kid’s menu has all the kid favorites but with a healthier twist (whole wheat bread, organic fruits and veggies as side options). They even have organic baby food.

Yummy appetizers like the Pint O Pretzels, Warrier Wings or Nachofied Organic French Fries start off a menu filled with creative, healthy and hearty soups, sandwiches and burgers, plus a good mix of standard and more adventurous pizzas and calzones. Hopworks GF pizza crust is a must try – it’s the best we’ve found in the city so far, and we’ve eaten a lot. And vegans have plenty of options too, like the Tofu Po Boy and the Portland Bella.

Prices are reasonable, the vibe is lively yet relaxed, and the back patio is sublime on a warm fall evening. The next time you’re struggling with the “What’s for dinner?” dilemma, Hopworks is an answer the whole family will love.

Inside information: Hopworks is usually hopping, but the space is large so we’ve never had to wait long. Reservations are only accepted for parties of 10 or more and only Mon. through Wed. Other times are first-come, first served. We like the downstairs play area best, but the upstairs seating area is warmer which can be extra cozy as evenings cool off. If you’re gluten-intolerant, note that the kitchen isn’t certified GF, but they’ll do their best to avoid cross-contamination, and the gluten-free menu is substantial.

The 411

Hours: Open 7 days from 11 am to 11 pm (midnight weekends) Price range: Appetizers $4-$9; burgers/sandwiches $9-$11; salads $5-7 for individual sizes (add $3 for meat or portabellas); pizza/calzone $11-$28 Location: 2944 SE Powell Blvd.
Contact information: 503-232-HOPS (4677); hopworksbeer.com.

— Sarah Pagliasotti

The Little Gym is perhaps best known for its broad curriculum of gymnastics, sports, dance and karate classes for ages 4 months to 12 years. Classes run in semesters starting in fall and again in spring, but you can join at any time.

On top of that, Little Gym has engaging half-day camps for summer and school holidays that offer welcome flexibility (pardon the pun) – no need to commit to a whole week; you sign up a day at a time so you can customize a schedule that works for you.

And then there are the Parents’ Survival Nights – you drop your kids off for exercise, crafts and fun on select Friday or Saturday evenings and pick them up a few hours later. Devine!

You can also throw your child’s birthday party there – in fact, Metro Parent readers once again named the Little Gym Portland’s top birthday party spot in the 2011 “Family Favorites” Readers’ Survey.

No matter why you come to Little Gym, your kids will get structured instruction with coaches who clearly love kids. They’ll develop strength, tire themselves out, and learn crucial fundamentals like balance, coordination, teamwork and listening. They’ll also gain skills, confidence and an enthusiasm for exercise without even knowing it. It’s hard to beat that for year-round appeal.

Inside information: Some of Little Gym’s offerings fill quickly – sign up in advance to be sure to get a spot. And if your child’s a little nervous, no worries – you can stay during classes or camps and watch through the wall of windows separating the gym from the lobby. (There’s even wireless so busy parents can get some work done.) The staff is accommodating, allowing make-up classes for missed days and offering assistance with allergies, clingy kids and whatever else you may need.

The 411

Hours: Classes and Parents’ Survival Nights run year-round; camps are offered when school is out. Cost: Varies. You can try classes for free. Enrollment includes a one-year membership, which gives you discounts on camps and Survival Nights, as well as other classes. Location: 17890 SW McEwan Road in Lake Oswego (across I-5 from Bridgeport Village). Contact information: (503) 595-9702; www.thelittlegym.com/lakeoswegoor

— Sarah Pagliasotti

One of our kids’ favorites attractions is the pen of piglets nursing on a giant sow in one scruffling, snorting, roiling line in the animal barns. The barns, with their goats, cows and other farm animals – plus the hard-working 4-H kids – can entertain for hours. So do the horse competitions in the arena, the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Department’s giant fish tanks, the reptile tent full of iguanas, snakes and other scaly critters, and of course the carnival rides.

Then there’s the food. While we normally try to eat healthy, fresh organic food, our family can go crazy for fair food. The salt, grease and sugar options are dazzling, and that’s just the standards – curly fries, corn dogs, sno-cones, even meatballs on a stick. (On-a-stick is very big at fairs.) But there’s also a surprising selection of tasty international street food too, so plan on eating at least one meal here.

My latent girly side comes out when we visit the crafts, gardens and cooking displays. Every one of us who has ever tried to channel our inner Martha will be amazed at what these dazzling home-ec champions can do. Cakes, flowers, pies, quilts – an amazing feast for the eyes and a chance to expose kids to the idea of developing, yes I said it, useful skills among the “domestic arts.”

Be sure to check out the discounts, deals and events – like the free Kids Day sponsored by Les Schwab on Aug. 29, the Selena Gomez and The Judds concerts over Labor Day weekend, and the multiple IL CIRCo performances. Free entertainment includes the mind-boggling and spine-discomfiting Acrobats of Hebei China and the National K-9 championship competition, plus music, kids’ activities, sports exhibitions and more.

There’s so much to do, see and taste, in fact, that you may not be able to fit it all into one day. But since the fair runs through Labor Day, you don’t have to.

Inside information: Save $5 off adult admission by buying advance tickets online or by phone by 8/25. Since late August can be pretty hot, plan to arrive early and bring water and sunscreen. Ensure a more comfortable day by carrying a backpack instead of a purse, insisting everyone wear comfortable shoes and bringing a stroller for little legs. Bring your own food or just eat fair food – you won’t be sorry.

The 411

Hours: The fair runs Friday, Aug. 27 through Monday, Sept. 5; Sun. through Thurs. 10 am to 10 pm, Fri. and Sat. 10 am to 11 pm. Cost: Advance tickets (by 8/25) $7 adults, $3 kids 6 to 12 and seniors. Tickets at the gate are $11 for adults and $6 for kids and seniors. Kids 5 and under are free. Group rates and multi-day passes are available; also check the deals and discounts page. Location: Oregon State Fairgrounds, 330 17th Street NE in Salem. Contact information: 800-833-0011; oregonstatefair.org

— Sarah Pagliasotti