Toledo Parent April 2013 by Adams Street Publishing Co.

our 20th year connecting with families

FREE April 2013

T S A L C CHAN E!

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FAVORITES

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Tale tellers

Toledo authors share their stories

Creative for the kids p36 Meet Central Trail Elementary's Tina Arndt

SUMM ER FAIR 20CAMP SATUR 13 D APRIL AY, SEE P. 27 32

Adams Street Publishing Co. Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs: cjacobs@toledoparent.com

Co-Publisher/CFO

Mark I. Jacobs: mjacobs@toledoparent.com

Editorial

Assignment Editor

Alia Orra: editor@toledoparent.com

Staff Writer

Mary Helen Darah: mothermayhem@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Calendar

Julian Garcia: calendar@toledoparent.com

Social Media Specialist

Amanda Goldberg: agoldberg@toledoparent.com

Contributing Writers

Karen L. Zickes, Brittany Adams, Matthew Reger, Christine Holliday

Advertising

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Megan Anderson: manderson@adamsstreetpublishing.com Sarah Baird: production@adamsstreetpublishing.com Brittney Koehl: adsin@toledocitypaper.com Jameson Staneluis: jameson@adamsstreetpublishing.com

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Advertising/General Info: For advertising and general information, call (419) 244-9859 or fax (419) 244-9871. E-mail ads to adsin@toledoparent.com Toledo Area Parent News subscriptions are available by mail for $28/quarterly or $75 per year at Toledo Area Parent News, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio 43604. Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are subject to editing and should include the writer’s full name and phone number. Entire contents © 2013 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. Audited by

Toledo Area Parent News Winner of 28 awards for design and editorial content General Excellence Best Commentary Best Personal Commentary

In-Depth Reporting Best Overall Writing Best Cover Photo Best Supplement Design

adamsstreetpublishing.com

www.toledoparent.com • April 2013 •

Toledo’s Award-Winning Parent Newspaper

Volume 24 • Issue 4 April 2013

We hate to brag, but ...

We’re winners! We took home two awards at the Parenting Media Association national conference held in Atlanta in March.

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Silver Award, Special Section August 2012 Back to School Guide — see it at issuu.com/adamsst/docs/ binder12

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FAVORITES

Finalist, Column: Humor Mary Helen Darah’s Mother Mayhem column, “Cabin Fever; Hey! We’re Flying” — read it at www.toledoparent.com/August2012/Cabin-fever

departments commentary Follow us on...

recycle this paper For our children's future ...

5 6 7 8 9 10

kids’ horoscope community snapshots what’s briefly happening new kids on the block exceptional families tween the lines

38 calendar — compiled by Julian Garcia 43 marketplace

12 feature Tell me a story

Local authors explore the world of children’s lit — by Brittany Adams

35 mother mayhem Super glue theory

Mother Mayhem reviews her parenting tool kit — by Mary Helen Darah

36 parent profile An artistic mind

Tina Arndt’s classroom is a haven for elementary creativity — by Laura Blair

37 food fight Cozy little shop

with big flavor

Service stands out at Potbelly Sandwich Shop — by Karen L. Zickes

Pop Tart goes bam bam

A second grader in Baltimore was suspended for two days for holding up his Pop Tart and saying “bang, bang.” Do you think school officials were right to take disciplinary action?

Kathy Snyder Bettinger

Funny how we can’t use anything as a “teaching moment” anymore. So sad how everything is punishable by suspension. My son was in Kindergarten and was chasing another boy around playing cops and robbers with his fingers as a gun. He was given detention (this was 10 years ago). I asked the principle if he was ever told he couldn’t do that because I had no idea (stupid me). I also asked the principle if he had pretended to pluck the pin out of a hand grenade and throw it, would he have been punished the same. The response was “no” PATHETIC.

Cover photo by Micheal Wood (MW Photography)

Deana Willard

My’Lyse Blackshear (left), age 2, and Korie Veley, age 2, of Toledo Want your child to be our next cover kid? Send your photos to production@adamsstreetpublishing.com with your child’s name, age and hometown.

• April 2013 • www.toledoparent.com

They are kids ... and they will play kids games just like we did. I remember shooting people with my finger guns. Although kids will always need rules and guidance, adults also need to remember what it was like to be a kid and stop this kind of nonsense. Columbine might have changed the laws, but it cannot change children.

Susan Varble Thomas

It’s the no tolerance policies that cause these things to happen...

READ MORE COMMENTS ONLINE!

Like us to win ... This Nintendo DS TinkerBell and the Lost Treasure game! Facebook.com/ToledoAreaParent.

NEW COLUMN!!!

ARIES KIDS Born March 20 — April 20 By Sue Lovett Aries kids are the “me first” sign of the zodiac. They are full of energy and fire from the moment they take their first breath of air. They come into the world in a hurry, looking around to see who is there and what is going on. They are not shy and they have no fears. They move constantly and explore with their eyes until they are big enough to crawl, stand, and walk. They do not like fences or play pens or limits of any kind. They ride tricycles and fire engines as soon as they are big enough to climb on. The symbol for Aries is a ram and these kids lead with their heads as they walk and run. They get along well with other children so long as they are as active and adventuresome as the Aries. They love sports of all kinds. They do have a bit of a temper but never carry a grudge. They enjoy wearing hats or caps and are team players.

www.toledoparent.com • April 2013 •

Sandra Obiezuoha, 15 month

Emma Faye Iceman, 6 mo

nths, of Whitehouse

s, Holland

Kherington Beverly Goodreau, 13 months

Hannah Watkins, of Holland, and Fiona Ellison, of Waterville. (Photography by SCAMPER Artistry)

land

David Obiezuoha, age 6, Hol

Snap happy Toledo-area kids know how to smile (or pout!) for the camera. We love showing off your favorite family photos!

Jaidyn Lee Orlando, age 4

Kendall Johnson, 5, of Toledo

A spoonful of sugar Toledo Ballet dancers attended “Mary Poppins” at the Stranahan Theater and took a private backstage tour with the super nanny herself, played by Madeline Trumble. Trumble was a dance student of the Toledo Ballet’s Lisa Mayer at the University of Michigan, where Mayer works as an instructor. 6

• April 2013 • www.toledoparent.com

Share your s miles Send us you r photos! Email with na me, age & ho metown to: production@ adamsstreetp ublishing.com By sending phot . os, you give us permission to future or on ou r website and Facebook page .

publish now, in the

what’s

briefly happening... compiled by Alia Orra

Toddler zen

The hole that the death of a loved one creates in our lives is difficult to mend. For children, that hole can often go unnoticed as they appear to go on with daily activities, all the while struggling internally to comprehend their feelings. The newly-formed nonnonprofit Good Grief of Northwest Ohio aims to help support grieving children — according to the organization, one in 20 children will lose a parent by the time they graduate from high school. Group meetings help children and teens work through their experience and find hope for relief. After being divided into groups by age, children share their feelings about their lost loved ones and participate in play therapy, journaling or art projects that help them process their emotions. “We’re really giving them a way that they can share, because if you hold your grief in and don’t work through it, it can lead to unresolved grief for a lifetime,” says board member Molly Long. An orientation for new participants will be held on Monday, April 15; family support sessions begin on Monday, April 22, and continue on Monday evenings through early June. 6:15pm-7:45pm, including dinner. Good Grief, a nondenominational organization, meets at CedarCreek Church South Toledo, 2150 S. Byrne Rd. For more information, visit goodgriefnwo.org.

Grayson Sowers, 2, shows off her yoga skills in preparation for new classes at Lullaby Lane and baby food cooking courses. $40 for the four-week session; bring a yoga mat or a thick towel or blanket, and dress comfortably. 9:30-10:15am. 3100 Main St. at The Shops at Fallen Timbers, Maumee. 419-878-0127. www.lullabylane.com. To register, email rachel@ lulllabylane.com.

Photo by Kandace York

Help for grieving children

Emotional, undisciplined, unfocused balls of energy — there are probably no better candidates for yoga classes than toddlers. Local baby boutique Lullaby Lane will impart a little zen on parents and their little ones with their new yoga classes, one of a series of outsidethe-box experiences for families. “It’s sort of sweeping bigger cities, and I thought it would be a great idea to bring something like that to our area,” says Lullaby Lane project manager Rachel Sowers. The classes are led by Lotus Yoga Center’s Michelle LeBaron, and though they aren’t a physically taxing workout, they help children interact with their parents and their bodies in a positive way. The classes, held on Tuesdays beginning April 23, will be part of a new education schedule that includes Montessori workshops, Kindermusik, baby sign language

The next Toledo Zoo Snooze is called “Playful Primates”; participants will meet a zookeeper and learn about the animals they care for, like this lemur, above.

A sleepover among the animals The time-honored sleepover gets a much-needed (and super cool) overhaul from the Toledo Zoo this season. Family Zoo Snoozes, overnight experiences that were previously reserved for youth groups of 25 or more, are now open to families and their children, 5 and up. Kids and their parents bring sleeping bags and camp out at the Forest Room of Nature’s Neighborhood or in tents, enjoying a behind-the-scenes experience of animal interaction, keeper talks, tours and of course, the all-important snack time. The season’s first Family Zoo Snooze will be themed “Playful Primates” and takes place Saturday, April 6; pre-registration is required, as event reservations are expected to fill quickly. For May through November event themes and times, call 419-385-5721 ext. 2042 or visit toledozoo.org/snooze.

Fun, games and therapy

Board games have long been known as "smart" fun — oldschool recreation that teaches kids valuable social skills, too. Local therapist Jennifer Dubow wanted to capitalize on that idea with the creation of a new board game, Stress Quest, which teaches children ages 5 to 11 helpful skills to reduce anxiety. Stress Quest is intended as a tool for therapists and counselors to combat growing levels of worry among children, which can affect their ability to function academically and socially — symptoms can manifest themselves in the form of stomach aches, headaches, nail biting or excessive crying. Dubow teamed with local artist Paula Ashley to create the game's look, with the hopes that area intervention specialists can help students absorb important coping skills. For more information, call 419-699-3659 or visit buychildtherapygames.com.

www.toledoparent.com • April 2013 •

Letting the light in Light is the name of the game for good photography, and Crystal Jozsa has found all the light she needs at the new brick and mortar location of her photography business. She recently opened a studio on the 7th floor of the Secor Building in downtown Toledo, recognizing that the high ceilings and abundance of natural light there will enhance her photos of babies, children, and family groups. Jozsa had always enjoyed photography as a hobby, but didn't consider it as a career until her father died at age 60. That event served to remind her that life is too short not to do what she really loved, so she left her career in banking and opened her own business. She especially loves photographing her youngest subjects as they interact naturally with their surroundings inside or outdoors (no "sit still" Local kids love to pose for commands here!) and she expects the photographer Crystal Jozsa’s lens new location will provide interesting settings. "It doesn't seem like Toledo," she noted. "You get to ride a fancy elevator to get to the studio, and there are plenty of cool stairways and nooks and crannies that provide great atmosphere. Even the outside of the building and the alleyways nearby will be great locations for black and white or color shots." Packages start at $75. —CH Crystal Jozsa Photography is located on the 7th floor of the Secor Building, 413 Jefferson Ave. in downtown Toledo. 419-460-3866. www.crystaljozsaphotography.com.

Lego learning Toys and learning go together at Build It! in Perrysburg. Long-time Fort Meigs School 5th grade teacher Kelisa Boden started a Lego Club at school in 2011, and found lots of interest and plenty of fun ways to teach concepts required by state education math and science standards using the toys. When her husband Bill lost his job in October 2012, the couple developed the idea of openThe new Build It! in Perrysburg provides ing a business together that opportunities for constructive play to area kids the entire family could enjoy, and BuildIt! was born. The center offers drop-in classes for preschoolers and students in grades K-5 (schedules are available on their website), using Boden’s experience to teach all levels of science — physical, life, earth, and space — as well as math. She uses the building blocks to teach measuring, scale modeling, counting, patterns, volume and arrays. Lego lovers can celebrate birthdays at BuildIt! and summer campers will work on Star Wars and robotic activities. Open family time is available, too, for moms and dads who want to share the fun. —CH Open play time is $5 per child per hour; classes are $8 each or four for $30. BuildIt! at Levis Commons is located at 5180 Chappel Dr., Perrysburg. 419-690-9311. www.builditperrysburg.com. 8

• April 2013 • www.toledoparent.com

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Sal with his Pals (and parents) Jenny and Rick Pinardo

A cure for Sal

In the past eleven years, Sal's Pals Annual Dinner and Auction has helped raise nearly one million dollars to fund medical research to cure cystic fibrosis. This year’s event on Saturday, April 13 will be no different — Sal’s Pals founders Jenny Pinardo and her husband, Rick, have worked tirelessly to raise funding for research since their son Sal was diagnosed, shortly after his birth in 2001 with cystic fibrosis. The chronic disease impairs the lungs and digestive system and at the time, his life expectancy was less than 30 years. Though treatments developed over the past decade have advanced to extend that number, the Pinardos won’t be satisfied until a cure is found. “To be honest, my husband and I, the way we look at it is, we are not doctors, we can't do the research ourselves to find a cure,” Jenny says, “but we can't sit back and do nothing.” Despite the seriousness of the cause, the event’s success is attributed to its casual, familial atmosphere. “It's kind of like a big Italian wedding,” Jenny explains. This year's dinner will feature catering by Sofo Foods, a live auction, and a cash bar from 6 to 11 pm at St. Francis De Sales High School, 2323 W. Bancroft St. Sal's Pals will also participate in the Great Strides National Walk Event at the UAW/GM Powertrain Park on Jackman Rd. on Saturday, May 4. For more info, call Rick Pinardo at 419-360-7732 or visit www.salspals.org.

The newly-formed Celiac Support Group is a network for families facing a gluten allergy

Beating the wheat

Children's birthday parties have a fairly standard menu: pizza, cake, and cookies are always expected, and in demand. But for kids with celiac disease, that standard menu can leave them feeling excluded and anxious — celiacs must eliminate all gluten, a protein found in wheat flour and many other ingredients, from their diet to avoid serious problems with their digestive systems. Local mom Cheri Shinaver learned firsthand how difficult the radical dietary changes can be for parents and their children when her daughter Kaylee was diagnosed in late 2011, after years of stomach pain and sick days taken off from school. “I cried at the grocery store — it was super hard, it was overwhelming,” she explains. But Shinaver wanted to connect with parents experiencing the same challenges, so she teamed with school teacher Holly Welsch to create The Celiac Support Group, which meets quarterly at Sylvania First United Methodist Church. Families join together to trade advice and taste-test gluten-free products, with the goal of helping each other confront the diagnosis. Shinaver is making other efforts, as well, hosting the first ever “Beat the Wheat” race to raise awareness about the autoimmune disease on Sunday, May 19 at 9am at Olander Park. For more information on the race, email beatthewheatrace@gmail.com. The Celiac Support Group’s next meeting is Wednesday, May 1 at 6:30pm at 7000 Erie St., Sylvania. For more information about the group, email youandmegutenfree@hotmail.com.

www.toledoparent.com • April 2013 •

THE LINES TWEEN advice for parents with children 10-16

Body image and “Operation Self-Worth” Getting to know Alyssa Tomcho

Alyssa Tomcho, left, created the Operation Self-Worth program to help Boys and Girls Club participants raise their self-esteem

By Brittany Adams For her Girl Scout Gold Project last year, Notre Dame Academy senior Alyssa Tomcho created “Operation Self-Worth,” a two-week curriculum for young girls at the Boys and Girls Club of Toledo. Her program made a lasting impression on the young girls served by the organization — so much so that it will be added to the organization’s regular programming. We sat down with Alyssa to talk about the meaning of self-worth and the meaning of confidence for teenage girls. What does “self-worth” mean to you? To me, it just means that you’re comfortable in your own skin. You realize that there are imperfections in your body, but you can overlook those and see that you have value and that you are worth something to so many people in this world. So does your self-worth program have to do primarily with body image? A lot of it is on body image. I talked a lot about how the media and culture distorts our body image. I tried to relate it to our lives and how we can be comfortable with our body image and help others to be comfortable with it, too. When you were implementing these things with elementary and early middle school age girls, did you see that it had an impact on them even though they were so young?

I was a little worried that maybe they wouldn’t understand some of the stuff, but one of the things that I did was little surveys asking them how they felt about themselves and if the program was making a difference. A lot of them at the beginning were saying they didn’t feel comfortable with their bodies. By the end they were circling answers like “I feel good about myself.” You seem like the model of a self-assured teen girl! Have there been times in your life where you’ve struggled with confidence? Definitely, and that was how I became so passionate about it. During my junior high years, it was just really rough for me. I just didn’t really have good experiences with my friends. After I transferred to Notre Dame Academy, I think that I grew a lot more and started to feel more comfortable with myself just because of the people that I was surrounded by. For young girls who haven’t had the opportunity to go through your program, do you have any advice about self-worth? I think mostly you have to surround yourself with people that will help you to feel good about yourself, and you need to take that additional step to work on your confidence and reflect on your life. Do stuff that makes you feel good about yourself and don’t let anyone bring you down, even if they say mean things to you.

• April 2013 • www.toledoparent.com

Creativity rules

Teens will have a chance to connect —sans computers! — during this month’s 13th Annual Connect to Creativity Teen Art Show at the Toledo Lucas County Public Library. The exhibit features drawings, paintings, sculpture and jewelry by 100 teen and adolescent artists; participating schools include Maumee Valley Country Day School, Bowsher High School and Springfield Middle School, among others. It’s an opportunity for peers, family and community members alike to see the positive things teens in the area are contributing. The exhibit is on display during the library’s regular operating hours through Saturday, April 27; on that closing day, an open house reception will be held from 3:30 to 4:30 pm in the Huntington Meeting Room at the Main Library. 325 Michigan St. 419-259-5200. toledolibrary.org. —AO

e c n ha

WHO OO fami OOO ar e yo ly Vot favorit ur es e best of t for the ? he p ast yea r.

C 4/15 t s La ine d Dea

S E T I R FAVO VOTE ONLINE @ TOLEDOPARENT.COM

FAMILY FROLICKING

Place for winter fun ......................................... Rainy-day activity ............................................ Sunny-day activity ........................................... Place to sneak in a history lesson ........................................... Dance class .................................................... Martial arts program ....................................... Art class ......................................................... Music class .................................................... Free activity .................................................... Family-friendly fair or festival ......................... Live theater for kids ....................................... Place to hop on a horse ................................. Place to volunteer .......................................... Park or playground ........................................ Story hour (name location) ............................. Swim lessons ................................................ Place to swim ................................................ Indoor water park .......................................... Vacation that won’t empty your wallet .......................................... Family-friendly gym ....................................... Gymnastics center ......................................... Place to play rec sports ................................. Bowling alley ................................................

TELL TAP

Favorite thing about Toledo Area Parent ...................................... Things you would love to see in Toledo Area Parent .................................. Best Toledo Area Parent Column ............................................ Reason to visit www.toledoparent.com .............................. .......................................................... ..........................................

FEED THE FAM! Family Restaurant ...................................................... Healthy fast food ....................................................... Pizza joint (non-chain) ............................................. Burger place (non-chain) ........................................... Ice cream shop .......................................................... Place where kids eat free .......................................... Kid-friendly grocery store .......................................... Natural food store .....................................................

HEY SHORTY! IT’S YOUR BIRTHDAY!

Entertainer ................................................................ Birthday party venue ................................................. Place for goodie bag loot ........................................... Place to buy a cake ...................................................

RETAIL THERAPY

Kid’s clothier ........................................................... Kid’s shoe shop ....................................................... Kid’s consignment ................................................... Place to buy maternity clothes ................................. Place to furnish your little one’s “nest” .................... Locally owned specialty toys/gifts ...........................

GROWN-UP TIME

Support group for moms ....................................... Mom-friendly play date ......................................... Place for single parents to meet ............................ Parent blog ........................................................... Date night restaurant ............................................ Place for Mom to be pampered ............................. Romantic getaway ................................................

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RULES 1 You may only vote once. 2 No answer should be repeated more than three times. 3 A minimum

TOLEDO’S HIGH FLYERS

Neighborhood to raise kids ............................................ Program (activity for preschoolers) ................................ Summer day camp ......................................................... Tutor/learning center ..................................................... Teacher (and his/her school) .......................................... Family-friendly car dealership ....................................... Kid-friendly emergency room ........................................ Place to take Dad for Father’s Day ................................ Place to take Mom for Mother’s Day ............................ Kid-friendly salon ........................................................ Picnic spot .................................................................. Parent-friendly work place ........................................... Bank/financial institution ............................................. Family Lawyer ............................................................ Dentist/orthodontist ..................................................... Place to give birth ....................................................... OB/GYN ...................................................................... Optometrist ................................................................. Midwife ...................................................................... Pediatric practice ........................................................ Doctor ......................................................................... Chiropractor ............................................................... Allergist ...................................................................... Veterinarian ................................................................ Place to nurse a baby .................................................. Kid’s photographer ..................................................... Special needs services .............................................. Place to worship ........................................................ Preschool ................................................................... Daycare ..................................................................... Drop-in childcare ....................................................... Family-friendly restroom ............................................

For display advertising call Emily at 419.244.9859 or email sales@toledocitypaper.com Space reservation deadline May 15th Winners announced in the June issue of Toledo Area Parent

of 30 questions must be answered for your ballot to be eligible. 4 Your name and email address must be included. 5 No ballot stuffing! No photocopies! (We will discard any ballots that we suspect are fraudulently submitted.) Please mail completed ballots to 1120 Adams St. Publishing Attn: Family Favorites, Toledo, OH 43604. Or vote online at toledoparent.com! DEADLINE Friday, April 15, 2013, 5 p.m.

www.toledoparent.com • April 2013 •

tell me a

, h c a e B b o B edo

“The Tol Girl I Who Could Speak With Cats”

nspired by his granddaughter's experiences with her kitten, Bob Beach's book The Girl Who Could Speak With Cats follows a young girl's relationship with her cat Pretzel. The book, which started as a family story, is now available through the print-on-demand site Blurb.com. Beach earned both an education degree and an MFA at BGSU and has worked in a wide variety of creative fields (he was a founding partner in local firm The Marketing Communications Group and runs his own communications business, www.bobbeach.com) but creative writing is a relatively new venture for him. Beach is unsure if he'll write more children's stories, but the inspiration is there , saying “I do have some amazing grandchildren.”

Local children’s book authors publish tales for Toledo kids By Brittany Adams

rom the medieval to the supernatural, local children’s authors offer their young audiences a range of engaging and colorful stories. Encouraged by their families, these authors present unique stories with a wealth of artistic and literary flair. The following titles showcase a sample of local talent:

Toledo , n e l l i M . C.M

“The Ink

story

Garden of Brother Theophane”

• April 2013 • www.toledoparent.com

nfluenced by the literature of medieval monks, “The Ink Garden of Brother Theophane” is a humorous book aimed at elementary school children. Cindy Millen Roberts, pen name C.M. Millen, teaches 6th grade language arts at Toledo’s Christ the King Elementary but still finds time to regularly write and release children's books. Roberts, who earned her law degree from the University of Toledo, explains the appeal of her writing, “Good children's books can be enjoyed by all ages.” Roberts has gone the traditional publishing route but appreciates the authenticity and variety of smaller publishing houses. More information about her works can be found through her publisher's website, www.charlesbridge.com.

Nancy Schilb, Toledo

” y e l i W “Wise

ancy Schilb must face the harsh realities of animal abuse and neglect daily, but there is a silver lining to her job as an animal cruelty investigator with the Toledo Area Humane Society. “We try to work with people to make a bad situation into a good situation,” she explains. Schilb is affected by the successful adoptions and rescues of pets. Her lifelong love of writing has helped turn the feel-good stories of her day job into easy-reader children's books. Schilb explains that her books are “100% true stories — right from my laptop, right from my cases.” Her “Animal Cop Adventure” book series includes “Wise Wiley” and “Forrest the Hero;” both can be found online through Amazon.com and other major book retailers including Barnes and Noble and Books-A-Million.

Adrian Lilly, Luckey, OH

” w o n K u o Y “I The Devil 've always enjoyed the haunting and sort of gothic feel to both movies and books,” explains local author and freelance copywriter Adrian Lilly. His young adult fiction debut, “The Devil You Know,” is best suited for readers high school age and older because of the scary subject matter and advanced vocabulary. For high school readers, there's an educational bonus to his novel: ACT and SAT level vocabulary is included in his prose. Lilly travelled the traditional publishing route for a while, even hiring a literary agent. “[But] it's such a competitive world for writers,” Lilly explains, so he decided to selfpublish his novels as e-books. “The Devil You Know” has received good reviews from both teenage and adult readers. Lilly studied creative writing at Bowling Green State University. Find more information at www.adrianlilly.com.

continued on pg. 12

www.toledoparent.com • April 2013 •

continued from pg. 11

, e l o C Tom Toledo

y n n e B “ ” e b a B and

CSN contributor and St. Johns graduate Tom Cole sees a confidence problem in children. “I think kids are sometimes afraid to try,” he says. His baseball-themed children’s book “Benny and Babe” is directed at helping young audiences deal with the pressure to be successful. Through his writing, Cole hopes to communicate to young children about how to work hard, gain confidence, and ignore discouragement. Cole's publishing adventure has truly been a family affair: his wife, whom he credits as being “extremely smart,” organized the storyline, his son illustrated the pages, and his daughter promotes the book through social media (on.fb.me/15KkBKs). “Benny and Babe” is available on Amazon.com, and Cole has donated copies to many local schools and libraries.

Amy Fell, Sylvania

“Two Terrible Eaters”

ritten and illustrated by retired Northwood schools art teacher Amy Fell, Two Terrible Eaters follows two children who refuse to eat anything except peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. The book was inspired by Fell's niece and nephew — she sees the story resonating with other families because, as Fell explains, “everyone relates to the story of their [family’s] own picky eaters.” Armed with that universal appeal, her self-promotion and publicity has been more fun than challenging. “It's a little more work than distributing a book through a publisher, but I find it interesting,” she says. Fell has experience in the publisher world as the creator, editor, and publisher of the subject-specific Artafacts Magazine for schoolchildren. Two Terrible Eaters can be purchased online through Amazon.com.

• April 2013 • www.toledoparent.com

www.toledoparent.com • April 2013 •

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

U 2013 S

MEET SUMMMEET ER CA STSUMMER AFFER MP S CAMP FOR M STAFFERS OMORE RE INFORFOR MATIO INFORMATION! N

A P • April 2013 • www.toledoparent.com

Central Catholic High School Summer Camps have something for everyone! Everything from academics, sports, and enrichment to mapping out a college admission game plan is offered. Programs are available for a variety of age groups. Your camper could spend a slice of summer learning Chinese, cheerleading, brushing up on laptop skills,

F R A N K LI N

Camp Discovery at Children’s Discovery Center is a unique opportunity for schoolage children ages 6 to 12 to enjoy a summer filled with adventure, learning, and fun. Our “Passport to Adventure” curriculum features engaging, projectbased lessons. Campers will explore cultures around the world, and use technology to participate in international learning experiences. Groups will travel each week to field trip destinations around Toledo, including the zoo, art museum, metroparks, Build It! Lego center, and more. We are excited to announce the grand opening of our new recreation campus. Campers will have the opportunity to plunge into our commercial swimming pool each week and participate in team sports including: basketball, soccer, dodgeball, and more. Call 419-867-8570 for more information, or visit www.childrensdiscoverycenter.com

Central Catholic High School Summer Camps 2550 Cherry St. 419-255-2280 x1103. www.centralcatholic.org.

ELD

BGSU College of Musical Arts offers Summer Music Institute 2013. The College of Musical Arts provides intensive music camps, with themes ranging from composition to performance, designed for high school and junior high school students to improve their musical skills and get the chance to work with BGSU faculty. Three sessions are available from June 16 through July 3. Fees vary per camp session. Housing and meals are included in camp costs. For more information, visit www.bgsu.edu/colleges/ music/outreach/smi/

Children’s Discovery Center Multiple locations. 419-867-8570. www.childrensdiscoverycenter.com

TFI

Bowing Green State University College of Musical Arts 1001 E. Wooster St., Bowling Green. 419-372-2181 www.bgsu.edu/colleges/music/ outreach/smi

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exploring the world of ancient Egypt or anything in between. Numerous dates, times and offerings allow easy scheduling for the busiest of families. Collingwood Presbyterian Church 2108 Collingwood Blvd. 419-243-3275 ext. 6 www.groupvbspro.com/vbs/ez collingwood Kids will be up to their elbows in farming fun at the Hayday Weekend Vacation Bible

ack a special surprise for them to find after they arrive at camp (a card, card games to play with others, personal letter, etc.) Mine always went alone, not knowing a soul and sought new friends. So she made friendship bracelets to take and/or to make and give to her new friends. —Phyllis Smith Bixler, Toledo

School held at Collingwood Presbyterian Church on Friday, June 4 (6pm-8:30pm), Saturday, June 15 (2pm-4:30pm) and Sunday, June 16 (10am-11:30pm). Hayday VBS is filled with incredible Bible-learning experiences, team-building games, cool Bible songs and multi-sensory Bible adventures. To register, call 419-243-3275 ext. 6 or visit www.groupvbspro.com/vbs/ ez/collingwood. Common Space Center for Creativity 1700 N. Reynolds Rd. 419-531-2046 www.aclew.org Summer Arts and Sciences Creativity Camps for children ages 5 through 14 will be held weekly at Common Space for Creativity beginning June 10 through August 16. Camps run daily Monday through Friday from 8:30am-4:30pm. The Arts and Science Camp involves children directly in learning how arts and sciences are connected. Campers will be involved in drawing, painting, theatre, dance and creative writing with science woven throughout. In Creativity Camp professional teaching artists provide instruction through creative experiences. Campers need to bring a lunch. Refreshments and art supplies will be provided. Extended care is available from 7:30am-6pm for members. Each week will end with a Friday afternoon show for parents and friends. Camper memberships are $15 and family memberships are $45 per year. Camp fees are $110 for members and $120 for nonmembers. For information or to register contact 419-531-2046 or visit www.aclew.org.

Company C Dance Club 6540 W. Central Ave. 419-280-8065. www.companydanceclub.com. Company C Dance Club is committed to providing excellent professional dance training for children in a fun atmosphere. Company C Dance Club is passionate about passing their love of the art of dance to future generations by providing quality dance education. Children’s Summer Dance Camp is being held June 24-26 (ages 5-10) and Prince and Princess Camp (ages 3-4) from June 27 to 28. Country Lane Tree Farm 3525 N Bolander Rd., Genoa. 419-461-1298 www.countrylanetreefarm.com Has your child always wanted a pony of their own? The 2013 Pony Camp held in June and July will give children ages 4-12 an opportunity to pick hooves, clean their ponies, brush and groom them. The three day camps give children an opportunity to ride 30-45 minutes a day, learn fun pony facts, create a daily craft, interact with other farm animals and a whole lot more! Two day Pony Camps are available for children ages 4 and 5 in June and July. Same great camp but with more petting, brushing and riding! A two day Farmer Camp is also available in June and July for children ages 5-7 and 8-12 who love animals of every size. They’ll have hands-on experience with bunnies, cows, goats, ducks chicks, alpacas, llamas, pigs and more! Pizza party, t-shirt, and a straw maze will add to the fun. Call or visit www.countrylanetreefarm.com for dates, times and costs.

ur camp offered an open house at the beginning of the summer before camp started. Parents and kids could go see the whole camp and meet staff before they actually went to camp. This definitely helped decrease anxiety and got my son excited to go to camp his first year. His quote: ‘It looked awesome, and it was!’ —Cindy Davis Robertson, Toledo Daryl Jervis Dance Studio 7575 Sylvan Towne Dr., Sylvania. 419-843-9000 djhighvoltage@frontier. com Back by popular demand, Daryl Jervis Dance Studio is excited to offer four summer camps during June and July for ages three and up. In addition to their camps, the Studio also offers a variety of summer classes including jazz, tap, ballet, lyrical, and hip hop—and that’s only a selection of the classes offered! Camp themes include Hollywood Stars, Enchanted Princesses, Safari Adventures, and Once Upon A Time Camp. The Studio’s specialty summer courses are scheduled and planned according to each dancer’s interest and skill level. Call today to register! Feed Lucas County Children 1501 Monroe St. 419-259-9960 www.feedlucaschildren.org

the initiative to feed hungry children. The Knights Academy summer camp will also join the move and provide these meals, along with educational programs. The summer is a time for fun, physical activities, and days to get outside and get moving. Enrollment for 400 is open, but it will fill fast, so call 419-720-1106. First Unitarian Church of Toledo 3205 Glendale Ave. 419-381-6999 Chalice Camp at First Unitarian Church (July 8-12) is an exciting place for kids in kindergarten through sixth grade to explore their spirituality in a safe, nurturing environment. Kids learn about Unitarian Universalism, play games, create arts and crafts, and create friendships. Registration is due July 1. For more information or a registration form, email Heather at dre@ uutoledo.org. For more information on the church, visit uutoledo.org.

Feed Lucas County Children, Inc. provides healthy, hot, balanced meals to various summer programs throughout Lucas County. 90-plus organizations will join

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ave a pillow case made with a picture of the family pet or a favorite family photo. Send the camper with their favorite snack and pack enough to share with others in their cabin. Pack a small game or deck of cards that [your child] can play with others in the cabin. Mail a couple of letters a few days before camp begins so the camper will have them soon after [things] start. When you pick up your child from camp, arrange to go out to lunch with another camper and sit back while the little [ones] joyfully share stories of their adventures! —Jennifer Dubow, Sylvania Franciscan Academy of Lourdes University 5335 Silica Dr., Sylvania. 419-885-3273 www.franciscanacademy.org New this year are summer camps at the Franciscan Academy of Lourdes University. The summer camps are offered to students enrolled at The Academy in preschool through grade 2. Starting June 10 through August 2, the Academy camps offer fun themes such as “Ooey-Gooey Science Fun,” “Exploring Camping Fun,” “Wacky Water Week,” and “Summer Olympics,” to name a few. “The camps are designed with flexibility for parents for summer care all summer or just part of it,” said Tina Haack, summer camp coordinator. To learn more, visit www.franciscanacademy.org.

Gateway School 4650 W. Bancroft St. 419-536-6503. www.gatewayprek.com Summer camp at Gateway School is offered from 8:30am-11:30am. Gateway School provides imaginative adventure and activity for children. Friendships ignite while children explore music, treasure hunts, adventure science, arts and sports. Call to register! Great Lakes Collaborative for Autism 2040 W. Central Ave. 419-291-7020 www.GreatLakesAutism.org Self-Reliance Center, a partner of the Great Lakes Collaborative for Autism, offers a full-day summer program for teens and young adults, ages 12-22 with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The focus is on daily living, social and vocational skills, as well as recreational activities. We also pair up Continued on p 21

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our students with trained and experienced area high school students for typical social interactions like bowling, movies, and video games! For more information, visit www.GreatLakesAutism.org and click on Self Reliance Center! Growing Minds/ Oak Learning Center 12244 Sylvania-Metamora Rd., Berkey. 4305 Dorr St., Toledo. 419-829-3503 / www.wix.com/ growingminds/gmlc Growing Minds/Oak Learning Center is offering a variety of fun, educational experiences for campers age 3-12. Weekly camps are available June 3-August 2. Themes include: Nature's Energy (photo synthesis and the transfer energy), Decomposition (focusing on one of nature's number one decomposers — the worm); Mini Ecosystems (the study of ecosystems near your camper's home), Mapping Ecosystems (making connections in our world) Soil Quality (campers will test soil), Water Equality (campers will learn how to "make" fresh water and Bird Houses, Bees Hives and Spider Frames). Hunter’s Run 9241 Secor Rd., Temperance, MI. 734-856-2404 / www.huntersrunmhja.com Three and four day camps are held each summer at Hunter’s Run for children ages 4 and up. Children receive hands-on

experience learning proper care for their horses, instruction on how to tack up their horses, bathing their horse, and making horse treats. Children will enjoy various crafts to take home. On the last day of the camp, each group will have a mini-horse show. Every child will receive a ribbon. Huntington Learning Center 6638 Centers Dr. 419-868-1600 Huntington Learning Center continues their regular program schedule from 9am to 8pm during the summer months. Individualized programs include supplemental education, subject tutoring, exam preparation including ACT, SAT and PSAT, plus summer reading, writing and math programs. Imagination Station 1 Discovery Way (at Adams and Summit). 419-244-2674. www.imaginationstationtoledo.org While it’s HOT and steamy outside, we’ve got fun-filled, weeklong summer camps loaded with COOL science for you to experience. We’ve got 3 exciting camp options to choose from: Super Splatter Science!, Catapults, Coasters and Cars! and Survival Camp - NEW THIS SUMMER! Summer Camp is for kids 7-12 (in the fall) and runs 9am-4:30pm with before and after care available at no additional cost. For details, dates and registration, visit www. imaginationstationtoledo.org or call 419244-2674 x259

Kempo Martial Arts 6801 W. Central, Suite E. 419-885-1519 www.kempomania.com Offer martial arts classes for children 3 and up. Summer day classes start on June 18 and run through August 22. Two sessions are available. Classes focus on building character traits such as self respect and self-esteem. Kempo Martial Arts instills a "never give up" attitude and consideration for peers. Kempo for Teens (ages 11-14) gives children the strength to succeed in life; Lil Dragons (ages 3 & 4) preschoolers have fun while learning balance, dexterity, self-control and respect for others; Kempo for Kids (ages 5 and up) stresses selfdefense, self-discipline and respect for others. Kidz Watch 6801 W. Central Ave., 419-843-2997. and 3150 Bostwick Rd. Perrysburg 419-874-9678 / www.kidzwatch.net Fun for your child and flexibility for parents! Blast off to summer fun with the Kidz Watch camp program! Children of all ages will enjoy exploration and fun-filled learning in a relaxed and caring environment. Children have opportunities to develop social, cognitive, language, math and fine and gross motor skills during the weekly themed camps. Parents can choose full-time, part-time or just the activities (regular drop-in rates apply) Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm. Lunch and theme-based snacks are included in the fun. Visit www.kidzwatch.net for more information!

SummerTime at Maumee Valley Country Day School 1715 S. Reynolds Rd. 419-381-1313 www.MaumeeValleySummertime.org Half-day and full-day options at MVCDS summer camps will complement a busy family’s summer schedule. Hobbit Camp, for ages 4-5, offers arts and crafts, yoga for kids and exploring the woods among its numerous activities. Hob Haven Afternoon Camp mixes sports, arts, science, stories, nature, with a low camper to counselor ratio ensuring personalized attention to satisfy campers with varied interests. Week-long morning specialty classes for incoming grades 1-12 include soccer, flag football, tennis, basketball, yoga, glee performing classes, sculpture, cooking, crafty creations, playmaking, creative arts, chemistry, philosophy, study skills, algebra, SAT & ACT prep, Chinese, chess and so much more! Before and After Camp Care available from 7:30am - 5:30pm. Mini Motions Dance Center 2249 Tremainsville Rd. 419-473-0999. www.minimotionsdance.com Mini Motion’s Summer Program registration begins July 1 from 6pm-8pm! Classes will run July 8-July 26, with two classes per week for children ages two to twelve. A variety of classes will be offered including ballet, hip hop, and cheer. The schedule is available on the website beginning May 1! Tap shoes and slippers are provided. Continued on p 22

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Morgan Valley Farm 1300 E Monroe Rd., Tecumseh, MI. 517-423-7858. www.morganvalleyfarm.com Campers at Morgan Valley Farm learn safety, horse anatomy, horse health, and horse-related occupations. Guest speakers visit camp to discuss various topics. Riding lessons are given daily. Each camper and their partner is responsible for their horse during camp. Campers will have the opportunity to clean, brush, feed and exercise their horses. Special activities vary per camp but may include hay rides and horse-drawn buggy rides. Morgan Valley Farm offers small group/ counselor ratios and a knowledgeable staff. Campers are groups according to age and experience. Camps are available for children ages 5 and up. Natural Science Technology Center 5561 Elmer Dr. / 11791 Aviation Center, W. Airport Service Rd., Swanton. 419-537-1198. A four day summer camp is being offered through Toledo Public Schools Career Technology from June 10 through June 13 from 9am- 2:30pm. Exciting opportunities are offered at two locations for students entering grades 9 and 10. Students will explore their interests in nature, plants and animals with hands-on activities at the Natural Science Technology Center. Students will get a free plane ride and have the opportunity to plan and navigate with an instructor and be introduced to aircraft systems at the Aviation Center. Students will receive a free t-shirt, breakfast and lunch, supplies, and field trips. Bus transportation is provided from student’s high school to the camp location. Contact Tonya Kessinger at 419-578-4980 to register. Penta Career Center 9301 Buck Rd., Perrysburg. 419-666-1120 x3118. www.pentacareercenter.org Penta Career Center is once again offering their highly popular S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Camp Monday through Friday, June 10-14 from 10 am to 2:30 pm. The cost for the week is $25. Some restrictions apply and students must reside in one of Penta's member school districts. Five areas of study will be featured: construction carpentry, food science, geographic information systems, alternative energy management, and manufacturing technology. The program is for youths currently in grades 7, 8 and 9. Call or register online.

Rosenbloom’s Farm 2738 Shetland Rd. 419-841-3320 rosenbloomsfarm.weebly.com With nature as an inspiration, kids can’t help but bloom at Rosenbloom’s Farm. Children will interact daily with our friendly llamas, horses, and donkeys by feeding and caring for them. We’ll be collecting our fresh brown eggs and preparing a scrambled egg breakfast. Children will help in our expanded organic garden and will share in the bounty. Tons of crafts and fun activities complete our wholesome, creative camp experience. Dates: Weeks of July 29 and August 5. Times: 9:30am12pm, plus an optional extended day. The Salon Professional Academy 116 W. S. Boundary Rd., Perrysburg. 419-873-9999. www.thesalonprofessionalacademy.com Girls ages 8-13 can enhance their inner beauty and summer fun by attending a beauty camp at The Salon Professional Academy. Camps include Make-Up Not Fake-Up, Healthy Hair, Nailed IT!, and Skin Spaaahhh. Girls will have fun creating their own special look with hair and make-up and learn the importance of good skin care, well-manicured hands and making a good impression. Camps will be scheduled on Thursday nights, twice a month throughout the Spring and Summer from 5:30pm-8:30pm at the Perrysburg location. There will be two camps per session. The fee is $40.00 and may be paid the day of camp. Register by calling 419-873-9999 or in person at The Salon Professional Academy. St. James Club 7337 W. Bancroft St. 419-841-5597. www.stjamesclub.net St. James Club Health and Fitness is the place for summer family fun and fitness. Reasonably priced summer memberships are available. The club’s outdoor pool opens in May for swim lessons and swim tech. Additional summer fun offerings include cheerleading, water polo, tennis lessons and youth fitness classes. Free child care is available. St. James Club has everything a family needs for fun and fitness during the summer and all year round!

sent my kid with a lot of letters, cards, pictures, jokes, cartoons to open each day. They loved it. — Judy O’Brien, Toledo

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Lunch will be provided. Registration is from May 1-24. For more information, please contact 419-671-8558 or platosummer@tps.org.

Junior Skills & Drills Clinics (ages 8-12), Elite Specialty Camps (ages 15-18), Volleyball Fundamentals Camps (ages 9-14) and Back to School Skills Camps (ages 8-12) are offered.

Toledo Volleyball Club 2901 Key St. 419-794-4656. www.toledovolleyballclub.com

Toledo Zoo 2700 Broadway St. 419-385-4040. www.toledozoo.org

Learn the sport of volleyball or brush up on your skills! Toledo Volleyball Club offers summer fun and fitness for ages 4-18. Toledo Volleyball Club is dedicated to teaching everything volleyball. This summer TVC will offer a variety of camps in addition to private lessons, strength training, conditioning and jump training. Eight week clinics and week-long camps will be offered for girls and boys beginning in May. Volley-Lite Clinics (ages 4- 8),

The Toledo Zoo is one of the world's most complete zoos, with over 8,500 animals representing more than 750 species. The Toledo Zoo is also one of the region's top destinations for campers! Speciality camps are available for kids ages 4-14. This year campers can experience the Australian Outback without needing a passport! Critters Down Under (ages 4-5) and Journey through the Outback (ages 6-10) are being offered. Safari Camps Continued on p 28

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are also available such as Fishing Camp, Junior Zoo Keeper and Enrichment and Training. Trinity Lutheran School 4560 Glendale Ave. 419-385-2301 trinityvikings.org

Trinity Lutheran School presents CSI Toledo. Join us June 24-28 for STEAM camp 2013. More information available at www.cuw.edu/steam. One of our classrooms has become a crime scene. Grades 3-5 meet from 8am-noon. Students will analyze fingerprints, soil samples, voice prints, glass breakage patterns etc. Grades 6-8 will extract DNA, attempt ink chromatography, conduct handwriting analysis and flame tests. Early bird cost is $125. Contact Trinity at 419-385-2301 or visit our website at trinityvikings.org. Once you know about Trinity you will want your student at Trinity!

Washington Local School District 5601 Clegg Dr. 419-473-8348. www.wls4kids.org Whitmer High School is the place to be for summer sports, conditioning and summer fun! The following programs will be offered: Boys Baseball, June 10-12, grades 3-9; Boys Basketball, June 17-20, grades K-8; Girls Basketball, June 10-13, grades 1-8; Girls and Boys Cross Country, June 25-28, grades 1-6; Football, June 24-26, grades 3-9; Boys and Girls Soccer, June 10-13, grades K-6; Girls Softball, June 17-19, ages 8-14; Volleyball, June 24-26, grades 3-9. Registration forms will be posted online.

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f you have a pet, send the kid off with a framed photo of it. A small photo album of family/friend pictures can not only stave off homesickness, but also be a conversation starter — something that helps your kid get to know other kids. Before you send food of any kind, make sure you understand the camp’s policy about treats from home. To be safe and to make it more likely that your kid will be able to share the food, don’t use any nut products — particularly peanuts. —Susan Doktor, Ottawa Hills

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West Ohio United Methodist Camps & Retreats Camp Otterbein, 15779 Cox Rd., Logan, OH Camp Wesley, 653 Twp. Rd. 37 E., Bellefontaine, OH Camp Widewater, 4050 County Rd. 424, Liberty Center, OH 614-781-2630 / www.westohiocamps.org For over 50 years West Ohio United Methodist Camps have served people for Christian birth, growth, and renewal. Camps are available at three unique locations, each of which is ACA Accredited and offers age and developmentally appropriate activities and faith-forming programs. In addition to traditional, co-ed resident camp we also offer family camps and fully-accessible buddy camps for those with varying abilities. Summer Camp runs June 9-August 4 for ages 7 through 18. Camps are open year-round for retreats. Cost varies and financial aid is available up to $100 per camper with financial need. Information is available online. Continued on p 32

d your chil f o d e r i t Are you e wrong choices? h making t

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Then look no further! 28th monthly Dose of Reality “Scared Straight” Program

Overnight Boot Camp

Call for availability in April

Productive Leaders For Tomorrow’s Future To Register or for more information call:

567-277-5352 or 419-340-9858

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West Side Montessori Toledo and Perrysburg campuses. 419-866-1931. www.montessoritoledo.org Summer at West Side camps offer parents eight weeks of camp with full and half-day options. Parents may choose a few weeks, a full summer program or something in between. Programs are open to all children 13 months through grade 6. Limited space is available for toddlers through age 3. Toledo Campus is partnering with St. James Club this year for additional exciting camp options. Counselor-in-training classes for high school juniors and seniors are also available. West Side camps provide amazing teachers, outstanding programs, and flexible scheduling.

t helps if they know at least one other person.

—Dr. Mark McQuillan, Sylvania

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Super glue and other parenting tools Mother Mayhem on codes, theories and other necessities By Mary Helen Darah We are all in this parenting thing together, people. It takes a village … and an occasional glass of wine and large quantities of baked goods (especially when three daughters share the same “cycle," making you to want to relocate to the nearest Holiday Inn). Consequently, when someone shares a bit of wisdom or insight that's effective, I like to pass it on.

The Super Glue Theory

I am the mother of teens, so I am navigating my way through the land of flying hormones. I know things have changed since my upbringing, where basically my options were to remain a virgin until I marry or die. It saddens me that my daughters are force fed images that reinforce the message that all they have to offer is their sexuality. To reach “celebrity” status all you have to do is perform intimate acts on tape, get married on live TV (then file for divorce after 72 days), get pregnant with a new “baby daddy” (while waiting for the divorce to become final) and maintain your balance in stilettoes with perfectly lined lips. The cultural female role models offered to my teens

such as Kim Kardashian and Snookie, motivated me to dish out the “Super Glue Theory” (SGT). The SGT equates having sex to super gluing your fingers together; you can pry yourself free and move on, but healing is required. Do this several times and it can be downright painful. In theory, when you least expect it, someone amazing could appear on your radar screen. However, if you are wounded from continually being “stuck,” you could be too busy nursing your injuries and miss out.

The Mandy Code

I learned of the “Mandy Code” from a friend of mine and incorporated it into my “Keeping Sane Through the Teen Years 101” manual. Oscar Wilde was said to have uttered the phrase “Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken.” It has been my personal experience that kids love to be unique as long as they are like everyone else. Therefore, the “Mandy Code” is the ideal way for a teen to leave a party and still “save face.” I told the girls to call me and say, “Mandy, do you want to go get some pizza?” or “Mandy, pick me up

Mother Mayhem’s daughter, Maria (center), takes the Super Glue Theory literally and we will hang out” if they needed to leave a party or situation. My first “Mandy” call came from my oldest child when she was a freshman. I jumped in the car with thoughts that I would be rescuing her from drugs, alcohol or some sexually assertive nightmare. She got in the car and I said, “Lauren, I know I told you that if you used the code, I would pick you up and not ask any questions … but, if you want to share … ” She replied, “Mom, they wanted to watch the Texas Chainsaw Massacre and I didn’t want to get freaked out.” Since then, I have gotten a few “upgraded code blue Mandy calls” and thank my good fortune to have included the “code” in my parenting playbook.

Get on the “Right Bus”

A dad, coach and all around “good guy” who I am acquainted with continually tells his sons to “Get on the right bus!"

He also tells them that they are three bad decisions away from totally screwing up their life but I digress. His “Get on the Right Bus” motto hit a chord with me because my grandfather would quote Lincoln when he said, “Make sure your feet are in the right place, then stand firm.” This hands-on dad tells them he believes that they are intelligent enough to realize when they are heading in a bad direction. Actually, I’m paraphrasing. He advises that when they sense they are heading in a bad direction, at the very first stop to “GET THE HELL OFF!” Parents have shared hundreds of helpful ideas with me and one of these days I vow to collectively organize and share their insights. In the meantime, I will try to keep my girls “unglued,” away from “Mandy” and on a bus heading toward a great future.

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Fun Facts

Years teaching: 23 Family: Husband, Matt; daughters Kat, 12, and Erika, 10; two cats and one bearded lizard

Favorite Toledo spot: The Toledo Zoo and the Toledo Museum of Art

Motto: With art, anything is possible. Favorite restaurant: Degage Jazz Café

Favorite artist: Vincent van Gogh

Favorite art style: Modern Favorite children’s books about art: “Scribbles and Ink” by Ethan Long; “Ish” and “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds

An artistic mind

Tina Arndt’s classroom is a haven for elementary creativity by Laura Blair

The most sought after material in art teacher Tina Arndt’s classroom is the toilet paper tube. Her students at Central Trail Elementary School in Sylvania have the opportunity to make clay sculptures, weave textiles, tool copper and create installations in the hallways. But the simple toilet paper tube still plays a prominent role in many art projects. “They ask for them all the time, and it’s amazing what kids can do with toilet paper tubes,” says Arndt. “But that’s the best part of teaching art. The kids never cease to amaze me with what they can do.” Art has always been the teacher’s favorite subject, and her passion is imparting that enthusiasm to her students. Parents can reinforce the art history lessons learned at school and encourage creativity (and fine motor skills) by making projects without spending money or even going to a museum. According to Arndt, it’s easy to incorporate creativity into everyday life.

Favorite projects

Arndt says her student’s favorite projects tend to be three-dimensional projects like clay and paper mache, which they don’t normally make at home. However, she recommends that parents support their budding artists by simply giving them a place to work and a wide assortment of materials (think recyclable things like paper tubes, boxes and junk mail) to work with. For genres or materials that parents aren’t familiar with, YouTube is a good resource for step-by-step instructions. For example, Arndt’s daughters have watched YouTube videos to learn how to 36

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draw anime and to fold origami shapes. Other websites that Arndt likes are The National Gallery of Art, Washington at www.nga.gov for its interactive art zone, and Crayola.com for its kid zone activities and articles about creativity. Toledo has many great art resources, too. Of course, the Toledo Museum of Art’s Family Center, which hosts free, drop-in themed art activities, is a favorite. Arndt has volunteered at the Heritage Center Museum’s summer art camp at the Sylvania Historical Village, which provides projects such as batik, wood sculpture and glass sand blasting that can’t be done at home or at school. For Arndt, the discovery of art was early — she was only four years old when she announced to her mother that she wanted to be an artist. She started as an arts major at The University of Toledo, but switched to art education. She changed majors because she wanted to stay in Toledo and be involved in art without being a starving artist. She realized that as a teacher, she familiarizes students with art history, technique and creativity. “I still get to be extremely creative by thinking of new ways and projects to inspire my young artists, “she said. One of Arndt’s unique inspirational tools is the pin contest. Arndt has a coat covered with 372 art pins, and any student in second through fifth grade can compete to see who can identity the most pins by artist, genre or time period. “Elementary-age students haven’t lost the love of art,” says Arndt. “They’re not worried about what other people say or what other people are making. They still take the risk.”

Cozy little shop with big flavor

Potbelly gives the lunchtime sandwich some oomph

Potbelly Sandwich Shop

By Karen L. Zickes

Potbelly. Not sure why, but my kids and I snicker every time we drive by the little sandwich shop and read its sign. Inevitably, someone always has to read it out loud, even though we’d passed it countless times before. On a recent Sunday afternoon the curiosity about the restaurant with the funny name got the best of us and we just had to stop in and see what this place was all about.

We’re glad you’re here

Fresh food, fabulous flavors

After talking to Mr. Gibbs as well as perusing their website, I gained a much

Kid friendly: Yes To avoid wait: Anytime Noise level: Moderate Bathroom amenities: Changing stations in BOTH the men’s and the women’s restrooms. High chairs: Yes Got milk? Yes, as well as Coke and Pepsi products, and a variety of bottled drinks. Kids’ menu? No, but the grilled cheese sandwiches are wonderful.

4038 Talmadge Rd. 419-725-5037 Monday thru Saturday: 11am-9pm Sunday: 11am-8pm www.potbelly.com

My family and I stepped into Potbelly Sandwich Shop for the first time and had no idea what to expect. I hate drawing attention to ourselves but it was obvious we were newbies and didn’t know what we were supposed to be doing. A Potbelly team member came out from behind the counter to greet us, giving us the lowdown on what their place was all about and how to build your sandwich. Though I had not eaten anything yet, customer service like that always brings me back. As it turns out, Potbelly is very big in customer service according to franchise owner Jeff Gibbs. “We encourage associates to talk to the customers. We really emphasize that we want our associates to be friendly and polite and engage our customers,” said Gibbs. Almost unthinkable in this high-turnover industry, eight of his 13 employees have remained with him for the two years he’s been open. That speaks volumes.

THE SHORT COURSE

greater understanding and appreciation for how the shops came to be, and what philosophies remain today. The cozy interior of the shop had a potbelly stove front and center. Just as the very first sandwiches in the original Potbelly store were served in an antique shop, every Potbelly Sandwich Shop is decorated to keep that nostalgic feeling. The 13 sandwiches listed on the menu board are made to order. Every sandwich goes through the oven, and then you add any other topping you’re craving, from pickles to dressings. They offer fabulous soups of the day and chili every day. I heard the salads are wonderful, as are the freshly baked desserts, hand dipped shakes, malts and smoothies. High quality fresh products are key at Potbelly. “We prep our vegetables, meats, and cheeses every day in the store. We prep in the morning for fresh-

ness and quality,” said Gibbs. Everything is made to order, including the ice cream sandwiches.

No kids menu? No problem

I was at first disappointed to find they didn’t have a separate kids menu. However, the employees were again very helpful and suggested the tasty grilled cheese or PB&J. The boys have since mentioned several times how much they loved their grilled cheese. My daughter tried a fresh strawberry smoothie and finished it before I got a taste. My boys convinced me to let them try an Oreo shake. Again, putting forth great customer service, the associate heard me tell the boys they could share it, and he offered to put it in two cups for them. He brought those out to our table complete with an Oreo garnish on the rim of each cup and had the cups

measured exactly; as you know there could be war if one cup had an extra sip. You can choose the original size subs, or do the BIGS, which are 30% larger. Since we shared some loaded broccoli cheddar soup, chips, shakes etc, the Original was plenty for us. I went for the meatless Mediterranean sub. It had feta, artichokes, cucumbers roasted red peppers, and hummus. Remember, though, they are made to order. So if you wanted to swap out ingredients, or simply add more, you just need to ask. My husband’s homemade tuna salad was flavorful. Originals start at $4.60 and BIGS start at $5.60. Salads start at $6.25 and a cup of soup is $3.20. Sometimes, only comfort food will do. Bottom Line: The potbelly stove remains a symbol of people gathering together and enjoying one another’s company. At Potbelly Sandwich Shop, customer service, as well as delicious hot sandwiches, are front and center. Though carry-out is popular with those on the run, stay a bit if you can and enjoy a relaxing step back in time. Karen Zickes is a mom of three active children and freelance writer who resides in Holland, OH. She can be reached in c/o editor@toledoparent.com.

www.toledoparent.com • April 2013 •

April2013 Photos Courtesy of United Way of Greater Toledo

All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation, and limited size. Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

Global Youth Service Day

Saturday, April 27 The Metroparks, the United Way Volunteer Center and various local agencies are participating in the 8th annual Global Youth Service Day and invite groups, families and area youths to volunteer and learn the virtue of community involvement. Global Youth Service Day events take place all around the world getting thousands of youth ages 5-25 to roll up their sleeves and participate. Projects range from local neighborhood cleanup, natural area restoration, tree plantings and more. After a morning of rewarding work, everyone is then invited to celebrate at the Toledo Zoo from 12-2pm. Lunch, entertainment and commraderie will be provided. Registration is required. Service hours, 9am-12pm; Celebration 12:30-2pm. Celebration is free for participants. For volunteer opportunities call 419-244-3063; visit www.unitedwaytoledo.org/gysd or www.metroparkstoledo.com; or email lori.miller@metroparkstoledo.com.—JG

1 MONDAY 13th Annual Connect to Creativity Teen Art Show - Toledo area teens have returned to the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library for the 13th Annual Connect to Creativity Teen Art Show. The show features drawings, paintings, sculpture and jewelry made by nearly 100 teen artists in grades 6-12. The displays, which are on view to the public during the Library’s regular hours of operation, showcase some of the finest teen artists the Toledo area has to offer. An Open House reception is scheduled on Saturday, April 27 3:30-4:30pm. Exhibit runs through Saturday, April 27. Main Library, 325 North Michigan St. 419-259-5200. www.toledolibrary.org

3 WEDNESDAY Toddler Trails - This outdoor, multisensory nature play and exploration program runs the first Wednesday of each month. Parent must accompany their child at the program. Register toddlers ages 18 months to 3 years only. 10am. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. 419-407-9700. www.metroparkstoledo.com

4 THURSDAY First Thursday - Montessori First Thursdays are a monthly program that allows parents to experience Montessori in the classroom. The program is presented by the Children’s House in the Treehouse Room on the first Thursday of each month. The topics are different each month. 8:45-9:30am. Free. West Side Montessori, 7115 W. Bancroft. 419-866-1931. www.montessoritoledo.org

5 FRIDAY Tea at Stranleigh: Anniversary Tea - Toledo’s favorite home turns 75 this year. Celebrate by sipping tea with the Manor House volunteers at one of the home’s most popular and longest38

• April 2013 • www.toledoparent.com

running events. Seatings include tea, two sandwiches, two desserts and musical entertainment in the beautiful setting of Stranleigh Manor. Reservations welcome but not required. 12pm. Free. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. 419-407-9700. www.metroparkstoledo.com

6 SATURDAY The Whys & the What of Montessori Learning - How is a Montessori school different from a traditional school? Come ask your questions and learn a little Montessori 101 to make an informed decision when choosing a school for your child. 10-11:30am. $15. Lullaby Lane, The Shops at Fallen Timbers 3100 Main St., Maumee. www.montessoritoledo.org Junie B. Jones - Outspoken, precocious, lovable Junie B. Jones stars in a colorful, funny, fast-paced musical about new friends, new glasses, sugar cookies, the annual kickball tournament, and other various first-grade angst-ridden situations. Follow her adventures as she writes down the story of her life in her “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal.” 2pm. $14. Valentine Theatre, 410 Adams St. 419242-3490. www.valentinetheatre.com Supervolcanoes - Feel the Heat! Supervolcanoes explores rare types of volcanic eruptions that marshal the energy that lurks, like a sleeping dragon, beneath the surface of planet Earth. The story of these big blow outs is a tale of havoc and mayhem: mass extinctions, climate collapses, and violence beyond anything humans have ever witnessed. In this unique immersive experience, audiences will explore the impact of volcanism on Earth and other worlds in the solar system. April 6 & 20, 7:30pm. $5 adults / $4 children and Lourdes community. Appold Planetarium, Lourdes University, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania. 419-517-8897. www.lourdes.edu/planetarium.aspx

7 SUNDAY Afternoon of Close-Up Magic - The Toledo Society of Magicians presents the 12th annual Afternoon of Close-Up Magic. Enjoy an afternoon of astonishment featuring the magic of Fr. Mark Davis, Andy Dyko, James Dyko, Martin Jarret, Andrew Martin, Pattrick Przysiecki, Andrew Rohweder. 2pm, doors; 3pm, show. $15. Holiday Inn French Quarter, 10630 Fremont Pike, Perrysburg. 419-255-2921. www.toledomagic.com Family Center: Rhythm in Art! - Kids up to age 10 participate in themed art activities in the Museum’s Family Center. Sunday, 12-5:30pm; Tuesday & Thursday, 10am-3pm; Friday, 3-8pm. Free. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. www.toledomuseum.org

10 WEDNESDAY Spring Star and Sky Watch Tonight, participants visit a park after dark to gaze at the constellations and share legends of the night sky. Bring an optional sleeping pad or chaise lounge for comfort, and dress warmly. Registration required. 8:30am. Farnsworth Metropark, 8505 S. River Rd., Waterville. 419-407-9700. www.metroparkstoledo.com

12 FRIDAY Preschool Pioneers: Start Your Engines - Bring your 3 to 5 year old to the little cabin in the big swamp to learn one of history’s fun activities. Children hear the story of how people moved from place to place and make a wagon to take home. Please register child only. 10am. Pearson Metropark , Lallendorf Rd. near the corner of Navarre Ave (SR), Oregon. 419-407-9700. www.metroparkstoledo.com

13 SATURDAY Friends of Pearson Pancake Breakfast - Enjoy a spring morning in the beautiful surroundings of Pearson with a pancake breakfast hosted by Friends of Pearson. Registration required. 7:30am. The fee for children under the age of 12 is $2.75. Pearson Metropark, Lallendorf Rd. near the corner of Navarre Ave (SR), Oregon. 419-407-9700. www.metroparkstoledo.com Green Science - Reduce, Reuse and Recycle… the Imagination Station way! Find new uses for old items and earn your ‘green’ thumb digging in the unconventional garden. April 13-21. General admission. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. 419-244-2674. www. imaginationstationtoledo.org Kids Go Green Consignment Sale Kids Go Green Consignment Sales are large seasonal events that offer everyone the opportunity to buy and sell brand new and gently used children’s and maternity items. These sales take place in the spring and fall. Friday, 9am-5pm; Saturday, 9am1pm. Free. Lutheran Church of the Master, 28744 Simmons Rd., Perrysburg. www.kidsgogreensale.com Adding Time To Your Busy Days Want to have it all, do it all and make it look easy? Time management skills, making baby books, creating new activities, planning ahead, working full-time and living stress free. Sign up for all 8 weeks and receive a free class! 10-11:30am. $15. Lullaby Lane, The Shops at Fallen Timbers 3100 Main St., Maumee. www.montessoritoledo.org Cont. on pg 40

www.toledoparent.com • April 2013 •

Cont. from pg 39 2nd Annual Wildwood Spring Carnival - Bring the family out for fun, food, kid’s games, snacks, raffles and prizes. All proceeds go towards building the new children’s playground at Wildwood. Sponsored by Volunteers In Parks. 10am. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. 419407-9700. www.metroparkstoledo.com NOOK Class: Basic - This complimentary seminar covers the basics of owning a NOOK HD and HD+. Be sure to bring your registered device. The staff will review the features and answer questions during this 45 minute session. 10am. Free. Barnes & Noble, 4940 Monroe St. 419-472-6164. www.barnesandnoble.com

14 SUNDAY Family Center: Lots of Layers! - Kids up to age 10 participate in themed art activities in the Museum’s Family Center. Sunday, 12-5:30pm; Tuesday & Thursday, 10am-3pm; Friday, 3-8pm. Free. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. www.toledomuseum.org GuitarFest: Bluegrass to Blues TSA’s annual GuitarFest returns with guest artists, vendors, masterclasses and performances, with a special emphasis on Bluegrass and Blues. With lots of activities to choose from, and terrific local and national artists to hear and learn from, GuitarFest has something for players of all levels. Lunch available for purchase on-site. 10am-2pm. $25. Toledo School for the Arts, 333 14th St. 419-246-8732. www.ts4arts.org Workshop: Cartooning & Animation - Learn the basics about character design and hand drawn animation with Jacob Menden. Design original characters, making a flip book animation, and also talk about story and make some group collaborative comics. All materials will be provided! No prior experience is necessary! RSVP required, call or stop by. 1-4pm. $25. Ages 10-17. The Art Supply Depo, 29 S St Clair St. 419-720-6462. www.artsupplydepo.com

17 WEDNESDAY Kindermusik with Miss Barb’s Music Studio, Inc. - Kindermusik Village, for children newborn to 18 months provides families a special place for learning and connecting through music and movement. Kindermusik Our Time, for children 18 months to 3 years of age allows children and a caregiver to meet weekly for a 45-minute class and enjoy singing, moving, listening and playing simple instruments. Wednesdays, April 17-May 15. 9-10:45am. $100 for 5 week session. Lullaby Lane Community Center, 4060 Technology Dr., Maumee. 419-878-0127. www.lullabylane.com

18 THURSDAY NWO Parents of Visually Impaired Support Group Meeting - Local parents of blind/visually impaired children wanting to get together to meet and discuss any and all issues children have faced or may be facing. Help with the IEP process in schools, activities, technology, and support! Come out to make this an ongoing parent support network in the area. Food will be provided. 6-8pm. Free. Sight Center of NWO, 1002 Garden Lake Parkway. 419-475-8435. www.sightcentertoledo.org

• April 2013 • www.toledoparent.com

Group Run for Strides - Join Second Sole for a special “Group Run for Strides!” This is the perfect warm-up for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk/Run on May 11th. 6-8pm. The Town Center at Levis Commons, 3201 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. 419931-8888. www.shopleviscommons.com Hooray for Homeschoolers: Amazing Amphibians - Explore the world of amphibians. Program begins with an introduction to the life cycle of these incredible animals. Participants learn identifying characteristics and behaviors. Finally, the group ventures out to find where these animals live, eat and breed. A separate program is available for children under 7 for $1. Registration required. 2pm. Oak Openings Preserve, 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton. 419-4079700. www.metroparkstoledo.com

19 FRIDAY Baby Tours - Watch your child respond to large colorful paintings and learn ways to facilitate early visual literacy skills. Parents and caregivers with infants up to 18 months are welcome. Meet at the TMA Family Center. 6pm. Free. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. www.toledomuseum.org

20 SATURDAY PRS Rodeo Riding - The most electrifying 8 Seconds in sports, the Professional Roughstock Series (PRS) Toledo Open features World Champion athletes matched against over $2 million worth of bucking stock for an exciting, family-friendly extravaganza! The PRS Toledo Open is the fifth event of the calendar year of the Nationally Televised 2013 Tour. See the best in the business fight for their rodeo lives in the most dangerous events—Bareback Riding, Bull Riding and Saddle Bronc Riding! 7pm. $15-$43.40. Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave. 419-2553300. www.huntingtoncentertoledo.com Party for the Planet - The Zoo is all about being good stewards of the environment. That’s why Earth Day is such a big deal. Celebrate by bringing in your recyclables and taking part in cool activities that help you learn how to be a little “greener” in the future. Also, watch animal feeding demonstrations and meet some of the keepers. 10:30am. Toledo Zoo, 2700 Broadway. 419-385-4040. www.toledozoo.org I Spy, Mansion Style - Visitors search for objects hidden in plain sight during this classic program. With over 30,000 square feet of mansion to scour, this task is harder than it may seem. Spend an hour, or the afternoon, seeing Stranleigh Manor through a new lens. Activities are available for all ages. 1pm. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. 419-407-9700. www.metroparkstoledo.com Sign Language Level 1 - In a playful, educational, and language-rich environment. Caregivers and children will build American Sign Language (ASL) vocabulary through instruction, interactive games, and songs. Come preview the summer Sing, Sign, and Story-time class! Saturdays, April 20-May 25. Newborns-18 months, 9am; 18 months-4 years old, 10am. $110 for a 5 wk session plus a free 6th week. Lullaby Lane Community Center, 4060 Technology Dr., Maumee. 419-878-0127. www.lullabylane.com

National Train Day Saturday, May 4 National Train Day rolls back to Toledo’s Amtrak Station to celebrate the heritage and importance of the country’s railroad system. The entire family will enjoy a number of different educational and fun activities. Exhibits displaying a look into the rich history and limitless future of passenger and freight rail will fill the grand Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza. Activities include the opportunity to board an Amtrak “Superliner,” 5 model train layouts, a “family lounge” with Thomas the Tank Engine layouts and a working children’s train that’s big enough for adult rides too! Cannonball Paul will entertain with railroad tunes and stories, and Engineer Steve will present a children’s rail safety program. There will be additional parking at Owens Corning with a shuttle bus for guests. 9:30am-4pm. Free. Toledo Amtrack Station, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza, 415 Emerald Ave. 419-241-9155. www.tmacog.org—JG

21 SUNDAY Family Center: My Own Story! Kids up to age 10 participate in themed art activities in the Museum’s Family Center. Sunday, 12-5:30pm; Tuesday & Thursday, 10am-3pm; Friday, 3-8pm. Free. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. www.toledomuseum.org Spring Shopping Expo - Over 50 unique Crafters and Direct Sales vendors will be featured. Vendors include Scentsy, Avon, Miche Bags, recycled art, baked goods, handmade pottery, homemade soy candles, and more. Admission and parking are free. A raffle will be held to benefit March of Dimes to support local programs to help families and babies. 10am-3pm. Free. Holiday Inn French Quarter, 10630 Fremont Pike, Perrysburg. Metroparks Mutts: Wildflowers Canine participants are sure to stop and smell the flowers on this refreshing stroll. Dogs must have shots, get along with other dogs and be on standard 6ft lead. Regstration required. 3:30pm. Secor Metropark, 10000 W. Central Ave., Berkey. 419-407-9700. www.metroparkstoledo.com Oak Openings Wildflower Walks Discover what spring ephemerals carpet Oak Openings trails as the season progresses. A Metroparks naturalist

guides these enlightening and relaxing walks. Registration required. 1pm. Oak Openings Preserve, 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton. 419-407-9700. www.metroparkstoledo.com

22 MONDAY Happy B.Earth Day - Celebrate Earth Day and enjoy a story, making a recycled craft and eating birthday cake! Registration required. 6:30-7:30pm. Washington Branch Library, 5560 Harvest Ln. 419-259-5330. www.toledolibrary.org

23 TUESDAY The Lorax at Your Library! - Prepare to celebrate Arbor Day in true Lorax style. Come on out for a reading of THE LORAX, whimsical activities and tasty treats! Special Arbor Day gift for participants while supplies last. All ages welcome. 6:30-7:30pm. West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. 419-2595290. www.toledolibrary.org Puppet Show With Joyce Davis Davis’ delightful and funny characters from the “magic” basket will entertain everybody with their amusing and creative antics. Lots of laughs and smiles for the entire family! 6-7pm. Free. Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. 419-259-5310. www.toledolibrary.org Cont. on pg 42

www.toledoparent.com • April 2013 •

Cont. from pg 41 Wee Workshop: Planting A Rainbow - Find out what native flowers will pop up for spring and what they need to grow. Wee Workshop is a hands-on nature experience designed to cultivate your child’s love for the outdoors and includes a craft, story time and a nature walk. Register child only. Parent must attend the program with their child. 10am. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. 419-407-9700. www.metroparkstoledo.com

24 WEDNESDAY Earth Day - Celebrate Earth Day with an earth friendly activity thats fun for the whole family. Don’t throw it away— make art out of it! This activity will have you making artwork out of plastic water bottles, bottle caps, straws, string, paper and glue. 10am-5pm. Imagination Station, Summit St. and Adams St. 419-244-2674. www.imaginationstationtoledo.org

25 THURSDAY Kids Geocache Adventure - Learn how to use a GPS to seach Wildwood on this fun adventure of high tech hide and seek. 4pm. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. 419407-9700. www.metroparkstoledo.com

26 FRIDAY Illustrating Stories w/ Michelle Duni - The Toledo Museum of Art’s Family Center is giving kids and their parents a new reason to say “T.G.I.F.” with an alternative that is fun, educational and accessible for the whole family. The last Friday of every month, the Family Center hosts a local artist who speaks to families with children 10 and under about their process and inspiration. 6-7pm. Free. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. www.toledomuseum.org Sesame Street Live: Elmo Makes Music - Jenny, an enthusiastic new music teacher, arrives on Sesame Street only to discover that her instruments are missing. Jenny’s new Muppet friends quickly come to the rescue and discover ‘instruments’ they never knew existed…rubber duckies, trash can lids and even cookie jars. Elmo and friends teach children that everyone can make and enjoy beautiful music together. Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 10:30am, 2pm, 5;30pm; Sunday, 1pm, 4:30pm. $17.15-$58.45. Seagate Convention Centre, 401 Jefferson. 419-255-3300. www.toledo-seagate.com

27 SATURDAY Louie the Elephant’s 10th Birthday It’s hard to believe, but Louie the elephant turns 10 in April, and the Zoo wants you

Just scan the code using your phone to join the list!

Join our e-mail list for Private Sales, Special Offers and Promotions!

to be part of the fun! Come watch Louie enjoy some of his favorite treats, including presents and a mammoth cake. 10:30am1:30pm. Toledo Zoo, 2700 Broadway. 419-385-4040. www.toledozoo.org Celebrate Eric Carle! - This special storytime will feature some of Eric Carle’s endearing stories. Enjoy crafts, games and snacks in “Very Hungry Caterpillar fashion!” 11am. Main Library, 325 North Michigan St. 419-259-5200. www.toledolibrary.org Treasured Stories of Eric Carle He’s back! The Very Hungry Caterpillar is joined by a whimsical cast of adventurous animals drawn from the pages of Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? and Papa Please Get the Moon for Me. All of Mr. Carle’s stories are guaranteed to educate and entertain everyone. 2pm. $14. Valentine Theatre, 410 Adams St. 419-242-3490. www.valentinetheatre.com 2nd Annual Cupcake Showdown Help raise money for the Children’s Theatre Workshop and sample the best cupckaes the Toledo-area has to offer at CTW’s 2nd Annual Cupcake Showdown. Local bakeries face off to see who makes the best cupcake in Northwest Ohio. The event is inspired by CTW’s upcoming summer production of Willy Wonka The Musical. Heavy hors d’ouerves, and refreshments will also be available. Also, raffle tickets will be for sale with the chance to bid on great items. 6:30-9pm. $15 adults / $10 students & seniors. Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Blvd. www.childrenstheaterworkshop.org

Glass City Marathon - Register now for the 37th Annual Glass City Marathon and join a running program that benefits various community organizations. Enjoy the beauty of the Toledo community and travel from the University of Toledo through Ottawa Hills, Wildwood Metropark, Sylvania and return to the finish line at the University. Categories include Kids Races, 5K, Half Marathon, Marathon and 5 Person Relay Marathon. Register online. 7am. University of Toledo, 2801 W Bancroft St. www.glasscitymarathon.org 8th Annual Toledo Baby Child and Family Expo - Join Sylvania Tam-OShanter for The 8th Annual Toledo Baby Child and Family Expo for expecting and new parents and families with young children. Designed with families in mind, the Expo will feature kids activities, entertainment and a chance to win great prizes. Patrons will enjoy the Diaper Dash, the Toddler Trot, Adult Musical Chairs, and demonstrations from area vendors. 11am4pm. Free. Sylvania Tam-O-Shanter, 7060 Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. 419-509-5336. www.toledobaby.com

29 MONDAY Film Focus: Award-Winning Family Friendly Short - An entertaining collection of short films recognized by the American Library Association. These films are not subject to rating by the Motion Picture Association of America.6:15pm. Free. Main Library, 325 North Michigan St. 419-259-5200. www.toledolibrary.org

You can also visit toledoparent.com to join.

MONDAY-Saturday Kindermusik Preview Class,

Explore fun, musical adventures with your child. For children ages newborn through seven years. Call for available times and registration. Miss Barb’s Music Studio, 3307 N.Holland-Sylvania Rd. 419-842-8331. www.MissBarbs.Kindermusik.net

MONDAYs REFRESH Moms Group, Come enjoy a light

breakfast and be refreshed by connecting with other moms 2nd & 4th Monday each month. Open to all moms with children birth-elementary school. Childcare provided. 9:30-11am. Hope Community Church, 5650 Starr Extension, Oregon. www.hopecommunity.tv

for 12–23 month old children. The program involves active participation and interaction between the child, the caregiver and a member of the Library staff. 9:30am and 10:30am. Free. The Way Public Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. 419-874-3135. www.waylibrary.info

Mothers’ Center of Greater Toledo, Mothers meet for fun, food and friendship. Reliable and safe childcare provided. 9:45-11:15am. McCord Road Christian Church, 4765 N. McCord Rd., Sylvania. The group is not affiliated with the church. www.motherscenter.net

FRIDAYS Babytime, Have fun with stories, rhymes and music and discover ways to develop early literacy skills in your young child. Join us for a book program designed just for the littlest learners. Go online for each Library’s age range and registration details. Registration required. 10am. Waterville Branch Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville. 419-878-3055. www.toledolibrary.org

TUESDAYs Nursing Mothers Group, These meetings are

Creativity Corner, Children can enjoy a storytime

held the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month (except major holidays). Nursing moms and new babies are invited to attend informal discussion about breastfeeding issues. 12:30–2pm. Toledo Hospital, 2142 North Cove Blvd. 419-291-5666. www.promedica.org

TUESDAYs & THURSDAYS

Family Center Fun, Kids up to age 10 participate in themed art activities in the Museum’s Family Center. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10am-3pm. Free. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. www.toledomuseum.org

WednESDAYs mom2mom, The Toledo area’s newest

moms’ group meets the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays every month. 9:15-11:15am. Christ the Word Church, 5432 West Central Ave. www.mom2momtoledo.com

• April 2013 • www.toledoparent.com

THURSDAYS Mother Goose Storytime, A storytime program

for an hour of fun activities that will build memories together. 10:30am. Sweet Cheeks Pure Baby Boutique, 5577 Monroe St., Sylvania. 419-517-0506. www.puresweetcheeksbaby.com

Sweet Sharings, Bring your little ones

28 SUNDAY

every Friday. 11am. Barnes & Noble, 4940 Monroe St. 419-472-6164. www. barnesandnoble.com

SUNDAYS

Free Family Time Tour, Children and their adult partners tour works of art related to the Family Center’s weekly art project, then roll up their sleeves back at the Center for hands-on creating. 2pm & 2:30pm. Toledo Museum of Art Family Center, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. www.toledomuseum.org

marketplace

ENTERTAINMENT

ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE

Free Classifieds: Individuals may receive one free 20-word ad per month (products offered in ads must sell for under $100). Each additional word 40 cents, payment must accompany ad. Free ads run 1 month and are reserved for private-parties use, noncommercial concerns and free servicesLine Classifieds: Only $10 per month for 20 words or less. Each additional word is 40 cents each and any artwork will be $5 extra. Display Classifieds: Display classifieds with a box may be purchased for $25 per column inch. Photos are accepted with ads for an additional $5 per photo.

Deadlines: Ad copy must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication.

be placed. We accept checks, cash, money orders and credit cards (Visa/Mastercard). Phone: 419-244-9859 E-Mail: classifieds@toledoparent.com REFUNDS: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given. MISPRINTS: Credit toward future ads.

Education

Staff writers needed Do you know what a lead, nutgraph, and kicker are? If so, read on. Toledo Area Parent is always looking for enterprising, dedicated reporters. We pay for good work: writing that is easy to read, succinct and well-researched. If you struggle with basic grammar, spelling or deadlines, please don’t apply. Email a cover letter, resume and clips to editor@ toledoparent.com with the subject line “TAP Writer.”xxxx

Gail’s House Early Childhood Education and Childcare, 419-252-6544, 567-218-6750, gmcduffey50@gmail.com Home preschool and child care star quality rated opening now 6pm to 12am all ages. Call today. Extended Holmes Family Child Care 419-478-4373 Child Care available in my west central home. 4 children ages 18 monts to 5 years flexible hours Monday through Friday please call Miss Andrea 419-472-9969

INTERNS NEEDED Fun job. Great experience. Being on Toledo’s cutting edge. If you like taking pictures, presenting ideas, going to events for free and working in a team environment but don’t want to deal with the corporate ladder, ask us about an internship with the Toledo City Paper. College credit can be provided. We are looking for part time and full time interns. Apply at sales@toledocitypaper.com

St. Joseph’s Parish SeparatedDivorced Support Group. Tuesdays beginning Feb. 5 for 9 weeks. Main St.at Ravine Dr. in Sylvania. Non-Denominational, 419-885-5791 or 419-344-0713

lessons

Studio Art Classes at Sylvania Senior Center, work in medium of your choice. Tues and Fri 9-11 Call 419-885-3913

Violin/Viola/Voice/Piano Lessons accepting all ages. Let me help develop your gift. 419-704-6195 VOICE, PIANO AND GUITAR LESSONS. Beginner to advanced/intermediate. 15 years experience. CALL 419-290-1914 Elaine’s Little Picassos Children’s Art Camp at the Toledo Artists’ Club located at the Toledo Botanical Gardens July 8-12 9:30-12:30 Call 419-841-8153 Children’s Art Classes Toledo Artists’ Club at the Toledo Botanical Gardens Call 419-841-8153

services

HAS YOUR BUILDING SHIFTED? Contact Woodford Bros., Inc. for straightening, leveling, foundation, and wood frame repairs at 1-800-OLD-BARN/ www.woodfordbros.com MDHIC #05-121-861

HELP WANTED

Serious Moms Wanted We need serious & motivated people for expanding health and wellness industry. High speed internet/phone essential. Free online training. Http://www.iworkforfreedom.com

Contact

Dennis R. Weigel ²5IF (MBTT $JUZ .BHJDJBO³ For Your Next Magical Event!

(419) 474-6671

www.glasscitymagicshop.com

419-472-4333

www.AndrewMartinMagic.com

Evenings 6 - 8 pm

Shorties - Tuesdays Luckies Barn & Grill - Thursdays Spaghetti Warehouse - Saturdays Zia’s on the Docks - Sundays

FOR SALE White Gold WWII era ladies ring for sale. Half KarAt White Diamond Swirl 419-699-3398 Queen sized bed and mattress, Hardly Used, Good Condition 419-2427565

Saturday, April 27

turn to page 33 to see details of our annual

Summer Camp Fair!

Schoolbelles uniforms green and grey plaid, like St. Olaf’s, dresses sizes 5-12, skirts size 7, very good condition. Free. Leave a message and Glenda will return the call. 419-724-8803 Good Easter gift. Pretty, healthy, young, male canary, good singer, cage, stand, and food. $75 Cash Only. Doreen 419-242-7565 Native American Collection, busts and full figures, must sacrifice, relocating. Contact Noreen 419-242-7565 DELL LAPTOP Computer. Extremely fast, professional grade model. Excellent condition. Windows 7, Premium software bundle. Perfect for home, school or business. Six month warranty. $399. 717-653-6314 ProFlowers - Enjoy 60 percent off Tender Hugs and Kisses with Chocolates for your valentine! Site price: $49.99, you pay just $19.99. Plus take 20 percent off other gifts over $29! Go to www.Proflowers.com/ Brilliant or call 1-888-718-0394 SHARI`S BERRIES - Delight all of your valentines with our freshly dipped strawberries, decadent truffles and hand-crafted sweets! SAVE 20 percent on qualifying gifts over $29! Call 1-888-770-1867

ANNOUNCEMENTS Special needs dance class for ages 8-12 years old starts first week of April Call 419-309-1610 or email pro-danceco@bex.net

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Visit

See ! rew And

Birthdays • Banquets Schools • Scouts • More!

Freelance writers Needed. Send resume to editor@toledocitypaper.com

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Toledo area mom’s group Mom2Mom. We meet 2nd & 4th Wednesdays through May @ Christ the Word Church — near Secor Metropark. www.mom2momtoledo.com

ABC’s Wife Swap Magicians

Payment: Payment must be received before an ad can

The only

(MBTT $JUZ .BHJD 4IPQ For All Your Magical Needs 5515 Fern

(off Tremainsville between Laskey & Alexis)

Hours: Thur, Fri 4:00- 8:00 PM / Saturday Noon to 5:00 PM (Hours subject to change with Private shows)

(567) 288-4931

Become a doula! DONA International birth and postpartum doula training and professional certification at Center for the Childbearing Year www.center4cby.com

Call Emily at 419.244.9859 to sell your stuff in Toledo Area Parent today