Here are 11 undeniable truths about kids raised in the Pacific Northwest:
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Cultivating Open-Mindedness
Children in the Pacific Northwest grow up with a strong sense of open-mindedness. With many families leaning towards progressive beliefs, they are often at the forefront of liberal initiatives, including the legalization of marriage equality and cannabis. It’s likely that these kids will champion the next major cause, too. -
Seahawks Loyalty is Mandatory
Cheering for the Seahawks is a rite of passage, even for kids in Portland. Our fans once set a Guinness World Record for loudest stadium noise, and that was before we secured a Super Bowl victory. Additionally, kids automatically become part of the “12th Man,” which means they better take their fandom seriously. -
Umbrellas are for Tourists
Most families in the Pacific Northwest don’t own umbrellas—or if they do, it’s been ages since it was last seen. Umbrellas are rarely used; instead, raincoats with hoods are the norm (for those who need a bit of extra protection). Hats are acceptable, particularly if they feature a Seahawks logo. -
New Rain Boots Every Fall
Pacific Northwest kids eagerly anticipate colorful rain boots each autumn. These shiny footwear pieces are often paired with shorts, even in winter. They might not even get that wet, since the region doesn’t rain as much as outsiders believe—just a clever myth to keep Californians at bay. -
Adventurous Outdoor Lifestyle
These kids grow up surrounded by stunning nature, engaging in activities like climbing, skiing, cycling, and boating. When parents say, “Go take a hike,” they merely mean a family walk through the woods—often while donning Birkenstocks with socks, rain or shine. -
Friendly Drivers Foster False Security
Kids develop a misleading sense of safety when visiting other cities because our drivers are notably courteous. People stop for pedestrians at crosswalks here, which can lead to kids being nearly run over when they cross streets outside the Pacific Northwest. The upside? They develop sharp reflexes. -
Coffee Knowledge by Age 12
By the time they reach 12, children know how to order at least eight types of coffee drinks. This might also explain their quick reflexes. Parents aren’t the only ones with steaming mugs; it’s perfectly acceptable for kids to have coffee once they hit their pre-teens. -
Breakfast is Granola, Please
Granola, especially the crunchy kind, is a breakfast staple for many kids. Even the most traditional parents here have their quirks, whether it’s hitting yoga classes, attending farmers’ markets, or feeling guilty about their toothpaste choices. Their children embrace this lifestyle without a hint of embarrassment. -
Holistic Health Practices
Children in the Pacific Northwest often have their own “kid” healers. Many have a naturopath as their main doctor, receive acupuncture, and may have experienced migraines alleviated by a pediatric chiropractor. -
Food Sensitivities are Common Knowledge
Kids learn that their ailments are likely due to food sensitivities. Their naturopaths might attribute migraines to soy or chronic constipation to dairy. Gluten-free, nut-free, and vegan diets are typical; food intolerances are akin to middle school electives—every child here has at least one. -
Home-Cooked Meals and Street Food
While most meals are consumed at home, these kids are well-acquainted with street food. Families often frequent food trucks, teriyaki spots, farmers’ markets, and Whole Foods. Our children enjoy organic, non-GMO food—except for eggs, which come straight from the backyard coop.
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest teaches kids a lot, but most importantly, it encourages them to embrace their individuality, even when wrapped in their beloved, well-worn fleece jackets.
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Summary: Kids growing up in the Pacific Northwest experience unique cultural norms and values, from their loyalty to the Seahawks and lack of umbrellas to their adventurous outdoor lifestyles and holistic health practices. They learn to navigate a world rich in organic food and food sensitivities while developing a strong sense of self.