world of science and engineering can be so exciting for kids, especially when it comes to experimenting with new gadgets. We are giving away two exciting gifts for curious kids interested in STEM. Enter to win a The Thames & Kosmos Microscope and Hero: The Sound-Sensing Robot for the young scientist in your life! Congratulations to the winner of our July/August giveaway,
While sitting on a beach on vacation, the idea of living in a climate where it feels like summer everyday is enticing. However, no matter how much I love a warm beach, the number one point on my “cons'' list is always the same: no midwest fall. There is something special about September through November in the midwest that makes up for the waning warm weather and end of summer vacation. With apple orchards, spooky events and beautiful parks, Toledo is an excellent destination for fall family fun. Make the most out of the season and check out our guide to local haunts and happenings this year!
Fall is also associated with the bittersweet return of the school year. Learn about different schools and programs in our Education Guide. We are giving away a couple of exciting gadgets for kids who love STEM in our giveaway (see p.3).
We also cover exciting topics such as building a sensory room, local Indian cuisine and more! Access all of our exclusive online content and stories from past publications by visiting toledoparent.com.
Thank you for reading,
Mary Genson Assignment Editor Toledo Area Parent
by Kimmie Rose
Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22)
Happy Birthday to your Virgo child who is curious about expression and creativity. Mars is aligned with their sun sign, freeing emotions to allow them to discover their talents. Virgos often have an aptitude for drawing. For their birthday party, a suggestion is to help them discover a connection to art by supplying paint brushes and sponges and let them create using their imagination. A gift idea is an art kit with project ideas.
Publisher/Editor in Chief Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) FALL BEER RELEASES.
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Contributing Writers: Erin Holden, Kimmie Rose, Laurie Bertke, Mary Rose Kulczak, Penny Tullis Meeker, Emily Remaklus, Nathan Jacbs, Lori Orlinsky, Molly Kilma
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Libra (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22)
Happy birthday to your Libra, a sign ruled by Venus, which is all about beauty and charm. Focus on demonstrating magic — hire a magician to do magic tricks, or buy a magic set and encourage your little one to put on their own show. Let this year be full of exciting memories and magic for your Libra child!
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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@adamsstreetpublishing.com. Deadline for advertising copy 2 p.m. Friday before publication. Toledo Area Parent subscriptions are available by mail for $30 per year at Adams Street Publishing, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio 43604. One copy free per person per week; extra copies $1 each. Persons taking copies for any reason other than personal use are subject to prosecution. 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. Any letter submitted to the editor or publisher may be printed at the publisher’s discretion in issues subsequent to its receipt. Entire contents © 2024 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without written permission of the publisher.
Imagine Madison Avenue School of Arts, a Toledo elementary school, was certified as a National School of Character by Character.org. They are one of 73 schools nationwide to receive this recognition and the only school in Ohio to receive it. Recognized schools exemplify “The 11 Principles Framework for Schools: A Guide to Cultivating a Culture of Character.” For more information on Imagine Madison Avenue School of Arts, visit madisonavenueschoolofarts.org.
Through Ohio Digital Learning School’s Rise Up program, students are guided through mastering soft skills and other required tasks used while working in retail. Through this program offered in partnership with Kaleido Learning, students interested in the retail industry will have the opportunity to attain industry-recognized credentials set out by the National Retail Federation. Ohio Digital Learning School will be one of the first in the state to offer a teacher-led version of this course next school year. Learn more about Ohio Digital Learning School at odls.k12.com.
Toledo’s Art Tatum Zone, Toledo Public Schools, United Way of Greater Toledo and Lucas Metropolitan Housing were selected for a Harvard University initiative which supports youth in Central Toledo’s Junction neighborhood. The “Cradle-to-Career” initiative supports education and development towards positive outcomes for youth through a comprehensive, individualized and relationship-based strategy. Toledo is one of only 10 communities in the country selected for this year’s program.
Jermain Park Gets Updated Amenities
Jermain Park, located at the corner of Upton Ave. and Kenwood Blvd., was recently renovated. The park now includes six tennis courts and four new pickleball courts. Tennis court #4 is dedicated in memory of Zacharias Barden “for his years of service to the tennis community.” Updated public restrooms and a replaced parking lot are other improvements that were included in the renovations. Jermain Park is adjacent to Ottawa Park. For more information on Jermain Park, visit ottawapark.org.
Full day kindergarten now offered at Ohio Virtual Academy Ohio Virtual Academy offers full-day kindergarten in the 2024-2025 school year. Through Ohio Virtual Academy, students will have the opportunity to have a tuition-free full-day education, led by Ohio-certified teachers powered by Stride K12. 1690 Woodlands Dr STE 100, Maumee. 866-339-9071. ohva.k12.com
Kidstrong is a local program which offers children the tools they need to succeed mentally and physically. They have locations all over the country and recently opened in Toledo. In Kidstrong’s science based training program, kids learn physical skills such as how to walk a balance beam and how to do a pull-up, in addition to working on character development. Kidstrong also offers kids camps and birthday parties.
5203 Monroe St, Toledo. 567-250-6000. kidstrong.com.
By Emily Remaklus
From preschool to high school, finding the right educational opportunity for your family can be tough. Fortunately, Toledo has a lot of options we have rounded up to help you make the best decision for your kids.
4234 Monroe Street, Toledo 419-297-6313
info@hopelearningacademy.org hopelearningacademy.org
Hope Learning Academy of Toledo is a K-8 school that is committed to individualized learning to ensure that each student can meet their full potential. Class sizes are very small at Hope Learning Academy with 10 students or less per class. This allows teachers to provide that individualized attention to each student and allows teachers to accommodate each students’ learning styles. Additionally the school offers reading and math interventions for those students who might need a little extra support in those areas.
Specialized programs also address needs such as dyslexia support, social skills development and sensory integration. Hope Learning Academy holds high expectations of their students and instills a growth mindset that helps students overcome challenges and celebrates successes. For a school that will give the individualized attention your child needs, consider Hope Learning Academy of Toledo.
Multiple locations 419-704-2009 info@educareacademy.com educareacademy.com/about/
With over 50 years of experience, Educare Academy Child Development Centers provide a safe and nurturing education for your children. Programs fit a variety of ages from infants to school agers. The infant room provides peace of mind for parents with a strong focus on communication with parents and a loving environment.
The toddler room uses play as a primary way of learning with a variety of toys and crafts, and the toddler room also prioritizes the development of social emotional skills like sharing, discovery, and independence. For both the infant and toddler programs, parents can
sign up for Cuties Care which is only $10 a week and covers the cost of diapers and wipes for the week making it one less thing parents need to worry about.
The PreK program focuses on kindergarten readiness skills by increasing vocabulary, beginning writing, reading basic words, identifying patterns, and following multiple step instructions. And for families that meet certain income guidelines the PreK program may be free.
Students from low-income homes can also be enrolled in the Early Head Start and Head Start programs which are made available through a partnership with Lucas County Family Council and Great Lakes Community Action Partnership.
For school age students, Educare Academies provide before and after school care with homework assistance, games, crafts and enrichment activities. With ten locations in the area, all of which have received 5-star ratings in Ohio’s rating and improvement system, parents have a convenient option for a top tier education for their children.
1838 Parkwood Ave. UNIT 310, Toledo 419-246-8000
artstoledo.com/tapa-education
Looking for some additional educational opportunities for your children? The Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts (TAPA) is a performing arts collective comprised of the Toledo Symphony, Toledo Ballet, Toledo Symphony School of Music, Toledo Symphony Youth Orchestras and the Toledo Jazz Orchestra. TAPA offers education opportunities in dance and music for all ages. The Toledo Ballet offers various curriculum in ballet and other dance styles starting with children who are having their first encounters with music and movement to students considered advanced dancers. The classes focus on helping students develop confidence, discipline and a love for dancing. Students also have the opportunity to audition for seasonal ballet productions throughout the year which are performed with live music by the Toledo Symphony Orchestra!
The Toledo Symphony School of Music believes in helping students develop musicianship, determination, adaptation and teamwork all in an inclusive environment. Using the Suzuki approach to education, children as young as 3 years old can begin selecting instruments for their music education. And there are even music education options for children younger than 3 years old with the Musically Me classes. These classes are offered so that the youngest of children can enjoy music and movement in a group setting. As your child grows, they can participate in private lessons and/or group classes with expert educators focusing on the instrument of their choice. And as they advance as musicians, they may even be able to join The Toledo Symphony Youth Orchestras!
6450 Weatherfield Court Suite 3., Maumee 419-867-8570 contact@childrensdiscoverycenters.com childrensdiscoverycenters.com
Discover the best in early childhood education at Children’s Discovery Center! With five convenient locations throughout the Toledo area, Children’s Discovery Center (CDC) offers an exceptional choice for families seeking quality early childhood education with a mission rooted in respect for each student, promoting learning through exploration and supporting the whole family in a creative and nurturing Christian environment. CDC offers programs for every age! For infants, safety a top priority, while also allowing infants to explore, play and grow. Dedicated caregivers foster motor and sensory skills through consistent and loving interactions. Toddlers discover themselves and gain confidence in a nurturing learning environment, emphasizing consistency, encouraging exploration and development in language, social and emotional skills, and independence. Embracing the Reggio Emilia philosophy, the preschool/pre-k adapts learning to the interests of children while adhering to Ohio educational standards, focusing on enhancing creative problem-solving, conflict resolution and collaboration skills. For children who have already completed kindergarten, there are engaging summer camps and after-school programs catering to children in kindergarten through 4th grade, providing transportation and a nurturing, educational environment.
Experience the difference in a program that supports your child’s development and your family’s needs. Join Children’s Discovery in fostering a love for learning and exploration in a caring and consistent setting.
3208 W Sylvania Ave, Toledo, 419-471-2100
fortemusicandarts.com
Forté Music School offers flexible scheduling to accommodate busy lives. Their programs cater to both children and adults, with lessons tailored to each student’s unique schedule and goals. This flexibility ensures that every student can enjoy the profound benefits of music without compromising other extracurricular commitments.
All in one location, Forté Music School offers all instruments and all ages. With over 50 music teachers and a large facility, there are plenty of opportunities for students to learn seven days a week. All students pay on a month-to-month basis, meaning, it is not a long term commitment if you want to try it out. Students are given many performance opportunities while they are at Forté Music School, including two free Student Showcases where they can show friends and family what they have been learning.
Is your little one ready for new discoveries? Foster your child’s natural curiosity and nurture their development at our five Toledo-area child care centers. Discover the CDC di erence and experience the impact of a Children’s Discovery Center education!
Toledo Junior Academy is a private Christian academy on Sylvania Avenue, Toledo, providing a quality education for over 103 years! We are nestled in nature, giving us the ideal opportunity to offer our outdoor learning programs for K-8 Students. It is our desire to honor God in all we do. Students, who seek academic excellence will become leaders in their communities and witnesses of who God is and what life can be like through Him..
Kindergarten Forest Program
Outdoor Learning Program for Grades 1 – 8
STEAM: Lego Club – Grades K – 4
Lego Robotics – Grades 5 – 8 Music & Art
MAP Testing Community Services
For more information contact:
Toledo Junior Academy 4609 W Sylvania Avenue Toledo, OH 43623 Tel: 419-841-0082 email: secretary@toledojunioracademy.org
Fully accredited academy providing academic excellence. Small class sizes with personal student attention.
CONT’D FROM P11
433 N. Summit St., Toledo 419-473-2700
davisuniversity.edu
Davis University in Toledo, Ohio, is dedicated to providing exceptional career training through hands-on instruction led by expert educators. With a 10:1 studentteacher ratio, the university offers personalized support to help students succeed in their chosen careers. The modern campus, knowledgeable faculty, and vibrant student community create an ideal environment for learning. Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and registered with the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools, Davis University upholds high standards of innovation and excellence.
Contact an admissions representative for program details and class schedules to explore if Davis University is the right fit.
Davis University Homepage: davisuniversity.edu
Davis University Program Page: davisuniversity.edu/programs
Davis University Application Form: davisuniversity.edu/apply-on-line
419-841-0082
4909 West Sylvania Avenue, Toledo toledojunioracademy.org
With a hands-on, ‘whole child’ approach, Toledo Junior Academy offers programs for students 5–14 years old. At this fully accredited academy, students get personalized attention in small class sizes that average between 10 to 20 students per classroom. It is a Christian environment where students provided daily Bible classes and weekly Friday worships. Toledo Junior Academy has high academic expectations for students. Students are also given many opportunities in art and STEM including music classes, art classes, science fairs, music festivals and more. At Toledo Junior Academy, they value frequent parental communication and involvement.
By Erin Holden & staff
Saturday, October 19, 4 – 10pm
Sunday, October 20, 10am – 4pm Parade: October 20 at 1pm Main St., Downtown Sylvania
The yearly festival is free to the public and is hosted by the Sylvania Chamber of Commerce.
Parents can visit local vendors while the kids trick-or-treat on Main Street and walk through a pumpkin patch. Everyone will enjoy the live music, food trucks, cornhole tournament and family fun zone!
The leaves are turning and the air has a distinct crispness. You suddenly feel an overwhelming urge to start baking. That’s right: it’s fall.The spooky season.
September 28 and 29, 11am-5pm TMA Rita B. Kern Sensory Garden Toledo Museum of Art 2445 Monroe St., toledomuseum.org
Visit the Toledo Museum of Art to shop and view a beautiful array of hand-blown glass pumpkins during the fourth annual Glass Harvest! Explore the Rita B. Kern Sensory Garden and take your pick from a spectacular collection of over 300 colorful glass pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. Every Piece is hand made by a team of studio artists in the Glass Pavilion at TMA. Meet and Greet with the artists in the Pumpkin Patch. Live glass blowing demonstration at 11am, 12pm and 2pm in the Glass Pavilion.
Newthisyear:Don’t miss your chance to win the exclusive Glass Cornucopia! Purchase a raffle ticket at the Glass Harvest on Saturday or Sunday, with the drawing taking place at 4:50pm on Sunday.
2 Hippo Way 419-385-5721 toledozoo.org
October 1 – 31 | During zoo hours
With general admission to the Toledo Zoo, you and your kids will enjoy fall food and beverages, fall activities, giant pumpkin displays and more!
October 4 | 7 – 10pm
Beer lovers rejoice! The Toledo Zoo is inviting adults 21 and over to this beer-tasting event. The event will feature craft brews from many local and regional breweries. Enjoy live music and purchase food from food trucks.
October 17 and 18 | 10am – 3pm
Your family can have all the Halloween fun, and your kids can get all the candy without the fright! There are various trick-or-treat stations. This event is geared toward kids up to age five.
October 19 and 20 | 10am – 4pm
The beloved family-friendly trick-or-treat tradition is back! Kids can visit various trick-or-treat stations, while the rest of the family enjoys local entertainers. This event is suited for kids ages six and older.
October 26
Halloween isn’t just for kids! The animals will discover pumpkins, strategically placed in their exhibits. Some will even make a meal out of them and others make a fun mess, but all of them will be using their instincts while displaying natural behaviors. This is a great way to see your favorite animals and to participate in the zoo’s enrichment program at the same time.
Ticket sales begin on the farm at 7:30pm
Must arrive by 10pm | $25
Every Saturday in October also Nov. 2nd Country Lane Tree Farm | 3525 N. Bolander Rd., Genoa 419-461-1298 | panicinthepines.com
Looking for a spooky time for the older kids? Look no further than Country Lane Tree Farm’s Panic in the Pines which includes three different haunts that get progressively scarier as you go along. This one is not for the faint of heart! Are you brave enough?
There will be one night open to younger children that includes trick-or-treating and a hay ride. Follow them on Facebook for the latest details on that event. There will also be Fall Saturday Festivals at Country Lane from 11am-4pm every Saturday in October.
Johnston Fruit Farm
Monday – Saturday, 8:30am – 7pm Sunday, 10am – 6pm 2790 US-20 ALT, Swanton 419-826-1453
johnstonfruitfarms.com
Pick your own apples or pumpkins, then enjoy spending time visiting the animals at the free petting zoo. Snack on fresh apple cider and homemade donuts.
Saturday, September 21 | 10am-5pm
Agnes Reynolds Jackson Arboretum 2501 Robinwood Ave.
Kick off your fall fun with the 2024 Old West End Autumn Market, where you can listen to live music, enjoy food trucks of varied cuisine, learn about nonprofit organizations and shop with local vendors!
October 9 – 12, Wednesday – Friday, 10am-3:30pm Saturday, 10am-5pm 22611 State Route 2, Archbold, OH saudervillage.org
WIth Fall on the Farm, families can learn how to churn butter, play old-fashioned games, press cider, bake pies and decorate pumpkins. It’s both educational and spooky, as there will be some kid-friendly ghost stories and a “rogue scarecrow” wandering about.
October 9 – 12
Wednesday – Friday 10am-3:30pm
10am-5pm
Archbold,
Take their Celebrations to the Next Level!
By Lori Orlinsky
When most of us were growing up, birthday party rotations consisted of Chuck E. Cheese and bowling alleys, with activities like pinatas and pin-thetail on the donkey. But this generation is everything but traditional. From private tours at some of Toledo’s attractions to completing rigorous obstacle courses and bake-offs, Toledo is chock full of unique birthday party hot spots that will make birthday kids and guests feel special. Here are some of our favorite places.
FOR THE STEM ENTHUSIAST
Imagination Station
Create Art Studio + Workshop
Cost: Starting at $150
Best for ages: 5 to 10
Celebrate the big day at Create with a customized art project and a personalized collaborative birthday banner! Popular party themes include fantasy fairy houses, gnome homes, wizard huts, galactic galaxies, rainbow unicorns and more.
5723 Main St, Sylvania; 118 Louisiana Ave, Perrysburg
Spin & Splat
Cost: Starting at $249
Best for ages: 6 and up
Celebrate your child’s big day at Spin & Splat with one of their party options. Choose between a Spin & Splat Party, Neon Splat Party, Spin Party or Fluid Bear Party. At these parties, the birthday child and patry guests will have the opportunity to express themselves with paint and take home something special to remember the big day. 2455 Tremainsville Rd, Toledo. Moving to a new location opening in October: 2785 Central, Toledo
Cost: Starting at $325 for members / $375 for non-members
Best for ages: 5 to 12
What better way to combine science and fun than with a trip to everyone’s favorite science center? Scientist packages come with admission for 20 guests to explore the museum’s permanent and temporary interactive, hands-on exhibits with an Extreme Scientist. Kids will roll up their sleeves for a fun and messy slime activity and marvel at a super cool science demonstration and liquid nitrogen ice cream.
1 Discovery Way, Toledo
FOR THE THRILL SEEKER
Urban Air Adventure Park
Cost: Packages start at $239
Best for ages: 6-12
Cost: $25 per painter
Best for ages: 5 to 16
The birthday party child can choose any wood painting from a gallery of hundreds of themes and designs and will recreate it with their friends in a fun, casual setting. An instructor walks guests through every step to creating their own masterpiece, from sanding and staining wood to stenciling and painting the final product.
1197 Farnsworth Rd, Waterville
Urban Air has everything kids need for an adventure-filled celebration that they will remember for years to come. Named the best gym in America by Shape Magazine, kids can jump, soar, race, climb and play. Whether battling a friend on the beam, revving their engines for a go-kart ride or conquering obstacle courses, there’s something fun for every adventurer. 5243 Airport Highway, Toledo
1st Tooth, 1st Visit Early dental care can promote a lifetime of healthy smiles for your child.
Toledo Zoo
Cost: Starting at $575 for members / $675 for non-members
Best for ages: 3 and up
Let the kids truly go wild celebrating at the Zoo. The little party animals will have full access to the Zoo, plus two private live animal encounters, which may include meeting an armadillo, snake, rabbit, turtle, lizard or sloth. All birthday parties include food and drink (pizza, chicken fingers, lemonade, apple juice) and a special dessert. 2 Hippo Way, Toledo
By Mary Rose Kulczak
Michael Robinson wears a lot of hats.
As a sports commentator and reporter, he has worked for television and radio in Northwest Ohio for over nine years, while covering the University of Toledo Rockets from the sidelines. He spent seven years as a high school football coach, helping young men at St. Francis de Sales School reach their potential. In addition to all of these roles, Rob-
inson is also the owner and founder of 4th and Goal Athletics, helping young athletes achieve their dreams while motivating them to pursue a life that will take them beyond the stadium.
As a young man growing up in Shaker Heights, it was football that gave him the opportunity to go to college, a path that was not always clear for him.
Tell us about your family! Wife, Tiffany, daughter Riley (age 6) and son Michael Junior (age 3 ½)
What do you like to do on a day off? I like to golf, I like to run and I like to work out.
Favorite local restaurant? Pizza Papalis. I started 4th and Goal with my tip money that I earned from delivering at Pizza Papalis. The best wings in town!
Favorite local metropark? I’m the Mayor of Wildwood!
Dream vacation? I want to go to Japan and visit one of the futuristic cities to see what life is like outside of the world we live in here in America.
“Football was one of my first loves,” Robinson said. And thanks to a scholarship, he was able to attend the University of Toledo. While his love of football was a constant, the focus of his college studies changed frequently as he switched majors more than five times.
“I wanted to get back to football somehow, and I wanted to coach, and I wanted to develop young people so that they didn’t have to make the same missteps that I made, so that they could be successful at a faster clip,” he said.
Founding the program
In 2010, he founded 4th and Goal Athletics at the age of 23.
“I was coaching at St. Francis, and I would ask my players, ‘What do you guys do in the off season?’”
Their response would be: “‘We don’t do anything. We just wait until June when football camp starts back up,’” he said.
He realized that there was an opportunity to offer more to these young athletes than just sports training. Through weekly training sessions, events, and yearly camps, Robinson provides the motivation and discipline that will help these kids succeed.
“We’ve hosted over 1500 events since 2010, and we’ve worked with 70,000 student athletes, with close to $100 million in scholarships.”
Recently, 4th and Goal hosted their fourth annual camp that brings NFL players to help share their skills as well as their stories.
“It was amazing. This is our fourth year doing that camp with guys that have been in our program, like Tycen Anderson from St. John’s who plays for the Bengals, and Bryant Koback who played for Springfield and the University of Toledo. This year, we had 400 kids out there. What an amazing opportunity for them to come out and compete and spend two hours with some NFL guys.”
Any hobbies? I’m starting a run club in downtown Toledo, getting a group of people to meet up every Sunday for an hour and a half or so, and run for 2 miles. You can walk it, you can run it. Just coming together in the name of health and wellness.
Who’s on your playlist when you work out? Frank Sinatra. When we work out at Wildwood Park, that’s what I make my kids listen to. I get a lot of comments from people at the park. “You like Frank Sinatra, too?” It’s always a good conversation starter. Who doesn’t like Ol’ Blue Eyes?
Athletics and Education
“Athletics is always one thing that goes hand in hand with education. ‘I’m playing football in order to go to college for free.’ That mentality shift is what I try to get out to the kids, because you’re not going to convince them that reading a textbook is the way,” he said.
Robinson sees these camps as an opportunity to inspire young athletes to dream big dreams.
“In the African American community, a lot of young black kids, depending on where you live, won’t see a lot of doctors and lawyers and professional players. Sometimes it just takes seeing it to believe it,” he said.
“For them to see that it’s possible to come from Toledo and see your dreams come true, with some hard work and some discipline and the right amount of athleticism, you can reach your goals. That’s so important for me.”
By Penny Tullis Meeker
Whenever I entered our doctor’s office waiting room, my children immediately calmed. They spoke in quieter voices and were content to wait with something quiet to do. I thought, “what magic is this?” The waiting room had soft lighting, an indoor waterfall and earth tones. The sensory designs in the room seemed to help my children relax.
Whether or not a child has been diagnosed with a sensory processing disorder, they can become overstimulated and experience sensory overload. Sensory rooms provide a space where calming sensory input is provided, so the nervous system can recover and regulate.
Benefits of spaces designed for kids sensory needs include
Calms by reducing overstimulation
De-escalates when kids are melting down, aggression or other challenging behavior
Accommodates many types of disabilities
Reduces stress and resets mood
Supports children to focus
Sensory Rooms can be found now in some schools, community centers and hospitals. Many parents are incorporating elements of sensory rooms in their homes, sometimes even setting aside a room for that purpose. Rooms can be set up to be soothing with mood lighting, comfortable seating and quiet activities; an active environment for them to safely climb on things, explore, and use some energy; or a mix of both.
Every child’s needs are different. Jennie Geiman, Teen Services Coordinator at The Ability Center recommends parents cherry pick items based on the needs of your child.
“Some questions I would think through as a parent, business, or school would be: What is the purpose of the space — calm down, move about, private place to relax? What will help them stay regulated? What types of sounds, lights, seating do they gravitate towards in that situation? What are the textures that they like or don't like?”
For home use, a sensory room can be designed around the specific needs of the child or children who are using it. Active rooms are designed for kids who are sensory seekers. They include opportunities to climb, swing, jump and move their bodies in a variety of ways. Calming rooms often include soft music and fiber optic lighting. Weighted objects help send calming signals to the brain and gentle rhythmic swinging can aid in calming when overstimulated. Hybrid rooms contain a mix of active and calming options for kids who need a wide range of sensory input.
If you don’t have a whole room of the house to dedicate, a smaller space can be set aside with smaller equipment such as a kid friendly trampoline, spinner, DIY obstacle course, exercise balls or a balance board. Rotating items helps maintain interest in a small space.
Calm space ideas can be a tent, closet, or corner with soft lighting. Equip the space with a soft chair or cushions, a weighted object, headphones and other small sensory objects or fidgets. You can include soft blankets, stuffed animals and other textures. If you have no space, you can create a sensory board stored under the couch or a box with sensory objects in it. Sensory walls or boards have different textures, colors and shapes for kids to explore.
By Laurie Bertke
2247 South Reynolds Rd., Toledo 419.385.7467 | tandooroftoledo.com
Tuesday-Thursday & Sunday: 11:30am-8pm (carryout)
Saturday & Sunday: 11:30am-9pm (carryout)
Dine in by reservation only: 5:30pm to close daily
Consistently ranked in the City Paper’s Best of Toledo Awards, Tandoor has been serving curries, biryani, naan breads and other classic northern Indian cuisine on Reynolds Road for more than 40 years.
Opened by the Mehta family in 1982, Tandoor changed hands in 1997 to owners Kamla Devi and Ram Nath. It remains a family operation and today, two generations can be found working in the kitchen and the front of the house.
Like the Southwyck neighborhood in which it resides, the restaurant has undergone a gradual rejuvenation over the past several years. When Covid struck in 2020, the dining room closed and the owners adapted by adding a carryout window for takeout only.
“Before Covid, we never closed,”said Raj Kaur, one of the adult children who work in the business. She said the family decided to take advantage of that time by undergoing long needed renovations to the older building, including improvements to the kitchen and a major facelift to the exterior. After four years of carryout only, the dining room finally reopened for evening business over the summer. Outdoor seating is in the works for a new patio out front.
Reservations are needed to dine in. My family was eager to visit the reopened dining room, but the first time we stopped in we were told that we
main features of this cuisine is the naan, a flatbread cooked on the inner walls of the traditional Indian oven from which the restaurant takes its name. The menu includes a wide variety of curry dishes served with rice as well as marinated meats cooked in the clay oven, which reaches temperatures of 900 degrees and is fueled by gas and charcoal.
Family style dining
On this visit we enjoyed the regular fresh naan and the whole wheat (roti) naan with our dinner. Each order ($3) came with two large pieces of the light bread. Other flatbreads on the menu come stuffed with a variety of intriguing seasonings and vegetables, and a sweeter Peshawari naan is filled with coconut and raisins.
Our server also brought us a basket of papadum — the Indian restaurant equivalent of the complimentary bread basket. Sometimes known as “crunchy bread” or “peppered chips,” the crisp lentil wafers are flavored with spices and served with tamarind and mint chutney.
While there is not a kids menu at Tandoor, Banga said the restaurant gets many younger guests. Some of their favorites are the bread, plain basmati rice and chicken pakora, which she describes as an “Indian-style chicken nugget.” The aloo tiki, which comes fried and stuffed with tender seasoned potatoes and spices, is likely to be another kid pleaser.
Tandoor recently underwent renovations that included a major
If you like to sample a few things it’s easy to enjoy the dishes at Tandoor “family style,” ordering a smorgasbord for the entire party to share. Guests are asked to specify their preferred spice level, and all the dishes we ordered observed our request for mild spice.
My two smoothie-loving kids enjoyed the mango lassi, a cold yogurt drink flavored with mango ($5). Everyone also liked the crispy vegetable samosa ($5 for 2), triangular pastries that are fried and filled with peas and tender seasoned potatoes. We were not quite prepared for the spice and seasoning of the Indian pickles ($2.50), which is very different from the American pickles we are used to eating.
For our main entrees, we ordered several tandoori meat dishes: the seek kabob (ground lamb prepared with spices and herbs, $16.95), the reshmi kabob (chicken marinated in a mild sauce, $15.95) and the mixed grill (chicken, lamb and shrimp, $17.95). Our two adolescent boys raved about the seek kabob, finger rolls of ground lamb prepared with spices and herbs. All the other tandoori meats we sampled were tender and delicious, and these entrees were accompanied by a light, fluffy plain basmati rice as well as chickpeas in a seasoned sauce.
Another favorite at our table was the chicken biryani ($15.95). Biryani is basmati rice cooked with onions, tomatoes, green peppers, nuts and spices, and this dish included generous pieces of tender chicken sprinkled throughout.
There is a reason Tandoor has a reputation as a top Toledo Indian restaurant. Banga said her family goes out of their way to offer top notch service and create relationships with their customers. If you dine in you are sure to experience this welcoming atmosphere as we did, but be sure to make a reservation. You can also call or order online for a quick carryout meal on busier nights.
The Short Course
Online ordering? Yes
Carryout? Yes
Delivery? Yes, through Doordash
Outdoor Dining? Coming soon Kids Menu? No
Changing Table? No
Booster Seat/High Chair? Yes
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SUNDAY 1
Fungus Among Us, Make and Take Clay Nature Art (Adults and 8+) - Take a short hike to suss out some of the coolest fungi around, and then make one to take home. Registration is required. $5. 11:30am-1pm. Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 5240 Wilkins Rd., Whitehouse. metroparkstoledo.com
TUESDAY 3
Wild Storytime Presents Owls - An exciting session featuring story time, a meetand-greet with an ambassador animal, craft activities and fun-filled interactive experiences. Ticketed. $15. 10am. Nature’s Nursery, 7541 Dutch Rd., Waterville. natures-nursery.org
Musical Jamboree - Designed for preschoolers ages 2 to 5, children will make music and experience play as they learn beginning socialization skills while interacting with other preschoolers. $43. 10-11am. The 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 577foundation.org
WEDNESDAY 4
Toddler Trails (Ages 0-3)This outdoor, multi-sensory nature play and exploration introduces your toddlers up to three years of age to the natural world and promotes its preservation. Registration is required. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. metroparkstoledo.com. Free
SATURDAY 7
Meet-n-Greet Picnic and Back to School Kickoff - Build the Children welcomes the community, other nonprofits, and volunteers to a barbeque and backpack give-away. Free items will be provided to the first 100+ children who show up in person and picnic lunches until the food is gone. Noon4pm. Trilby Park Shelter House, 3101 Shawnee Rd. buildthechildren.org. FREE
MONDAY 9
Back To School Bash - Celebrate visiting the library after school again. There will be an inflatable obstacle course, games, and a treat to get kids motivated to start the school year off right! 3:30-6:30pm. Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
WEDNESDAY 11
“Foundations of Parenting”
Parenting Workshop - A unique faithbased parenting workshop that welcomes participants from all religious backgrounds to enhance parenting skills and build a supportive community. Registration is required. 6:30pm. Maumee UMC, 405 Sackett St., Maumee. maumeeumc.net.
FRIDAY 13
Youth Art Adventures: Dot Day! - Designed for 2- to 6-yearolds and their adult guardian, this class invites you to explore creativ ity and art together. Registration is required. $15. 10-11am. The 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Per rysburg. 577foundation.org
SATURDAY 14
Hook & Cook Youth Fishing EventHave you ever wanted to learn how to clean and cook what you catch? Families are invited to join experts for live fillet demonstrations to sharpen your skills. After your fish is prepared it will be cooked in a mobile kitchen brought by ODNR Division of Wildlife. 9am-noon. Cannonball Prairie Metropark, 9725 Monclova Rd., Monclova. metroparkstoledo. com. FREE
Day of Honor - The zoo is paying tribute to the men and women who keep us safe all year long by offering free admission for all police, firefighters, EMTs, military personnel and hospital staff, when they show their professional ID or badge. 10am. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org
Kids Explore Nature: The Magnificent Vulture - Celebrate International Vulture Awareness Day with this fun class where kids will get hands-on to learn about this majestic bird and its importance in nature. Registration is required. $20. 10-11:30am. The 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 577foundation.org
SUNDAY 8
Grandparents Day - Grandparents receive free admission when accompanied by at least one grandchild. 10am. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org
Science Saturday (All Ages) - Learn about the many reptiles and amphibians that live in our region and how their adaptations affect our ecosystem. Meet at Providence Metropark, Heritage Center. 11am4pm. Providence Preserve Metropark, 13827 US 24 West, Grand Rapids. metroparkstoledo. com
Welcoming Picnic and Party: We’re All In - From music, art, poetry, food, and fun activities for the whole family, you’re invited to celebrate the spirit of welcoming and community in Toledo and Lucas County. Noon-3pm. Main Library, 325 N Michigan St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
Glass City GLOWtacular - Light up the night with glow skating, rock climbing, mountain biking, paddling and more at this family-friendly event. 7-10pm. Glass City Metropark, 1505 Front St. metroparktoledo. com. FREE.
MONDAY 16
Create Your Own Milagritos - Celebrate Latinx Heritage Month - “Milagritos” or little/ small miracles are good luck charms. Learn more about Milagritos and create one of your own! Registration is required. 4-5pm. Holland Branch Library, 1032 S. McCord Rd., Holland. toledolibrary.org. FREE
THURSDAY 19
Toledo Tree Tots Preschool Club (ages 2.5-5) - Your preschooler will engage in handson nature activities throughout the school year at various metroparks that support early childhood development and pre-literacy skills. Registration is required. 6-7:30pm. $115 (includes nine 1.5 hour long programs). metroparkstoledo.com
FRIDAY 20
Momentum Art & Culture Festival - Join The Arts Commission for Momentum 2024. This year’s festival will be on Superior Street, between Madison Avenue and Adams Street, with indoor and outdoor spaces to explore. The festival includes a local artist exhibition, an artist market, dance and more. 5pm. Also on Saturday, Sept. 21, 1pm and Sunday, Sept. 22, 11am. N. Superior St., between Madison Ave. and Adams St. theartscommission.org
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™ in Concert - CineConcerts brings the beloved film to life with a live symphony orchestra performing John Williams` iconic score. $35-$95. 7:30pm.. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. stranahantheater.com
SATURDAY 21
Try it! Canoeing (Families 4+, Dog Friendly) - Enjoy a relaxing paddle around Silver Lake and learn basic paddle strokes during this beginner-friendly 1 hour program. Registration is required. $4. 10-11am. Side Cut Metropark,
MONDAY 2
Toledo Labor Day Parade - Local unions will march through downtown Toledo to celebrate the labor movement.
9am. Downtown Toledo, N. Summit and Monroe St. to Summit and Jackson St.
FRIDAY 6
Black Swamp Arts Festival - The annual arts & music festival returns to Downtown Bowling Green. Featuring the Kiwanis Youth Arts Village. Runs through Sunday, Sep. 8. 5pm. Saturday, Sep. 7, 10am. Sunday, Sep. 8, 11am. Downtown Bowling Green, Main St., Bowling Green. blackswampfest.org.
FREE
MONDAY 23
Forensic Mystery - Solve a mystery by learning about fingerprints and ink analysis. Use what you learn to analyze the clues left at the crime scene. 3:30-4:30pm. Washington Branch Library, 5560 Harvest Lane. toledolibrary.org. FREE
TUESDAY 24
Mommy & Me YogaStrengthen the bond between you and your little one in our nurturing and playful “Mommy and Me Yoga” class. Register online. $5. 1011am. Olander Park, Nederhouser Community Hall, 6930 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. outdoorsylvania.com
Create Your Own Milagritos - Celebrate Latinx Heritage Month - “Milagritos” or little/ small miracles are good luck charms. Learn more about Milagritos and create one of your own! Registration is required. 3-4pm. Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. toledolibrary. org. FREE
THURSDAY 26
Reading with Mrs. M - Come and meet Elmer the patchwork elephant in the book ELMER. The class will decorate their elephant and go on an elephant parade in the park. Registration is required. $4-$7. 10-11am. Olander Park, Nederhouser Community Hall, 6930 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. outdoorsylvania.com
FRIDAY 27
StoryTunes with TAPA - During these 45-minute classes, Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts (TAPA) educator and Musically Me founder, Cheryl Freeman, and a special musical guest will bring stories to life. 10-10:45am. King Road Branch Library, 3900 King Rd. toledolibrary.org. FREE
• September/October 2024 • www.toledoparent.com
SATURDAY 14
TMA Block Party - This FREE event welcomes the whole family to enjoy live performances, local food vendors and engaging artmaking activities. 4-7pm. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. toledomuseum.org. FREE
SATURDAY 28
Roche de Boeuf FestivalThe annual festival features a parade, vendors, kids activities and more. 10am. Downtown Waterville, Anthony Wayne Trl, Waterville. watervillechamber.com
Barbie™ Truck Dreamhouse Living Tour - Check out the new Dreamhouse Living Tour with exclusive merch only available on the Barbie™️ Truck Tour! 10am-7pm. Franklin Park Mall 5001 Monroe St. shop.mattel.com
Latinx Heritage Month Crafts and Treats - Create your very own Pan Flute or Guatemalan Worry Doll while you enjoy a tasty treat to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month! 2-3pm. Main Library, 325 N Michigan St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
SUNDAY 29
Quinceanera & Sweet 16 Expo - A celebration of culture and tradition. Hosted by Rico Sounds DJ Javi & Yecenia Cantu, this event is tailor-made for families seeking to curate the perfect Quinceañera or Sweet 16 experience for their daughters or sons. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. $5. 1-4pm. Heather Downs Country Club, 3910 Heatherdowns Blvd.
MONDAY 30
Life-Sized Board Games - Play the life-sized version of classic board games! 5:30-6:30pm. Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Rd., Oregon. toledolibrary.org. FREE
WEDNESDAY 2
Create Your Own Milagritos - Celebrate Latinx Heritage Month - Celebrate Latinx Heritage Month - “Milagritos” or little/small miracles are good luck charms. Learn more about Milagritos and create one of your own! Registration is required. 4:30-5:30pm. Kent Branch Library 3101 Collingwood Blvd. toledolibrary.org. FREE
MONDAY 7
Wild Storytime Presents Bats - An exciting session featuring story time, a meet-and-greet with an ambassador animal, craft activities, and fun-filled interactive experiences. Ticketed. $15. 10am. Nature’s Nursery, 7541 Dutch Rd., Waterville. natures-nursery.org
THURSDAY 10
Edible White Chocolate Sugar Skulls & Tissue Paper Marigolds - Create white chocolate skulls and paper marigolds in honor of Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead. 4-5pm. Lagrange Branch Library, 3422 Lagrange St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
SATURDAY 12
KIDZ BOP LIVE 2024The #1 music brand for kids brings their live show to Toledo. $39.50-$214.50. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. stranahantheater.com
WEDNESDAY 16
“Foundations of Parenting” Parenting Workshop - A unique faith-based parenting workshop that welcomes participants from all religious backgrounds to enhance parenting skills and build a supportive community. Registration is required. 6:30pm. Maumee UMC, 405 Sackett St., Maumee. maumeeumc.net. FREE
SUNDAY 13
Grand Rapids Applebutter Fest - Since 1977, the Applebutter Fest has been a beloved local tradition, offering a blend of historical re-enactments, artisan crafts, live music, food, and delicious apple butter. 10am-5pm. Downtown Grand Rapids, Front St. , Grand Rapids. applebutterfest.org
THURSDAY 17
Reading with Mrs. M - Enjoy fall in Olander Park with fall stories, a fall craft and a leaf hunt. Registration is required. $4-$7. Olander Park, Nederhouser Community Hall, 6930 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. outdoorsylvania.com
Zayden Collins is a senior in The TPS Aerospace and Natural Science Academy, attending classes in the Natural Science Center in Urban Agriculture. His interest in the program was sparked by his two older siblings, Ayanna and Zebulun, who also were also students in the TPS Career Tech program. Zay’s sister’s experience with the agriculture, food and natural resources curriculum drove him to enroll at the Natural Science Academy. Once enrolled, Zay was influenced by his teacher, Mr. Ellis, and inspired to pursue an interest in natural resources, including participating in summer internships the past two summers. Doing maintenance, installation and upgrade work for the area Metroparks has led to Zay’s plan to pursue a career in Park Management, The internship experience introduced him to supervisors with the City of Toledo in the Parks and Recreation department, solidifying the partnership between the City, the Metroparks and Toledo Public Schools.
Zayden’s advice to other students interested in Career Tech and, specifically, the Natural Resources programs is to “get involved and have an open mind,“ adding, “it may first seem that certain topics are weird or different, but once you get used to it, they became interesting and really pushed my interest in natural.” Studying plants and seed identification, as well as animal identification and participating in projects has also added to his interest in Natural Science.
Toledo Public Schools offers a number of magnet schools that are open to students who are interested in pursuing a specialized course of study. Students participate in project-based learning that includes hands-on activities and assignments that reinforce the curriculum.
Jane Driggs enrolled in the Natural Science Academy as a freshman. When she enrolled at the Academy, she knew one other student, a family friend who was a few years older. She quickly made friends and has become completely integrated into the school and the curriculum.
Now a senior, Jane explains that, although she wasn’t too interested in science growing up, she discovered her love of science while exploring options available through TPS. Jane encourages other students to find what they’re interested in, urging them to explore opportunities to determine early what their interests are, and then to get involved. She credits her teachers, including Mr. Ellis and Mr. Oswanski, at the Natural Science Academy with presenting opportunities and encouraging her to participate.
The past two summers Jane has worked through TPS’ partnership with the Toledo Zoo Conservation program. Doing field technician work, including surveys and animal measurements, as well as greenhouse maintenance, the internship through Toledo Public Schools afforded her those opportunities. After graduation, Jane plans to enroll at Ohio State University in the Agriculture Tech Institute focusing on greenhouse management, aquaculture and conservation research.
AEROSPACE & NATURAL SCIENCE
ACADEMY OF TOLEDO 11600 West Airport Service Rd. Swanton, OH 43558 419-671-1700
This school offers programs in aviation maintenance, animal science, urban agriculture, wildlife and fisheries, and partners with Delta Airlines, Interjet West, The Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Toledo Metroparks.
JONES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY OF BUSINESS
430 Nebraska Ave. 419-671-5400
This 7th through 12th grade school provides a college and career readiness curriculum, with a focus on business and administrative pathways. The Bloomberg Financial Lab allows students to analyze market data and earn a certification.
CHASE STEMM ACADEMY 600 Bassett St. 419-671-6650
ESCUELA SMART ACADEMY 617 Western Ave. 419-671-5550
GROVE PATTERSON ACADEMY 3020 Marvin Ave. 419-671-3350
HAWKINS STEMM ACADEMY 5550 West Bancroft St. 419-671-1550
TOLEDO EARLY COLLEGE
2800 West Bancroft St. 419-671-4800
Students graduate with an average of 55 college credits, which means they can enter college or university as a junior.
TOLEDO PRE-MED AND HEALTH SCIENCE ACADEMY Pre-Med - 3301 Upton Ave.
This four-year academy focuses on Biomedical Science, Pre-Medicine, Pre-Nursing, and all Health Science fields. Students will have the opportunity upon graduation to begin an entry-level career in the medical field or choose to attend college and further their education. Seventh and eighth grade classes starting this Fall.
TOLEDO TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY OF ENGINEERING 3301 Upton Ave. 419-671-3900
TTA is a full career technology school for 7th through 12th graders that’s well respected within Toledo’s industrial community and across the state of Ohio.
MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. ACADEMY FOR BOYS 1300 Forest Ave. 419-671-4550
MARSHALL STEMM ACADEMY 415 Colburn St. 419-671-5700
MCKINLEY STEMM ACADEMY 3344 Westland Ave. 419-671-3750
OLD WEST END ACADEMY 3131 Cambridge St. 419-671-4700
ELLA P. STEWART ACADEMY FOR GIRLS 707 Avondale Ave. 419-671-5350
