September/October 2020 - Toledo Area Parent by Adams Street Publishing Co.

FREE SEPT/OCT 2020

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School guide

COVER KID WINNER!

Toledo’s Cody Moring (3) won the Toledo Parent Cover Kid Contest.

This school year is so different, and Toledo Parent covers it all. p10

School Open House Guide

Schools are going above and beyond to accommodate their students? p14

How are local moms Want to teach your Check out some REALLY handling mask-wearing tips kids anti-racism? parenting during for kids as schools Start with two popular reopen. p13 COVID-19? p18 kids movies. p20

• SEPT/OCT 2020 • www.toledoparent.com

Toledo’s Award-Winning Parent Newspaper Volume 28 • Issue 10 SEPT/OCT 2020

ONLINE FOLLOW US: toledoparent.com

SEPT/OCT giveaway Find, like and follow us /toledoparent

Then follow what we like! /toledoparent

We’re celebrating kids and family #toledoparent on Instagram!

Local COVID Testing Centers

Back to school giveaway! Learning can be fun, and what better way to educate and engage kids than through creative play and games? Practice fine motor skills with a throwback game, Let’s Go Fishin’, the fast action fishing game ($19.99 MSRP). Then get up and move, combining creativity with gross motor skills, with Dance Charades ($20 MRSP). For quiet, imaginative play, check plush baby’s heartbeat, record baby’s growth, scour the house for “ouch” items and more with “How to be a Great Sibling Kit” from Little Medical School ($29.99 MSRP). All great gifts for birthdays, too!

By Jeff McGinnis

Congratulations to Brooke Ocasio, winner of our June New Mama Bundle, and Amy Spurgeon, winner of our July/August Summer Fun giveaway!

Motherhood During COVID-19: Everything is fine (but really, it’s all too much) Motherhood, always a challenge, is in uncharted territory with the coronavirus. A local mom shares her struggles.

By Phoebe Samuel Rapp

Don’t wait to find the testing center closest to you that accepts your insurance. See our updated list online.

Active, Outdoor Family Fun

Get outside while you still can! Winter is just around the corner.

Visit toledoparent.com to enter.

By Erin Schoen Marsh

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1. Where to Buy Face Masks Locally in the Toledo Area

2. Toledo Parent Family

Favorites Results 2020

3. Letter from the Editor: My White Response to Black Lives Matter

ON THE COVER: Toledo’s cute kid, Cody Moring (3), who is also nonverbal and autistic, won the Toledo Parent Cover Kid Contest, sponsored by Motherhood Portraits by Tiana Lashae!

www.toledoparent.com • SEPT/OCT 2020 •

Letter from the EDITOR

Educational Playdates

HOROSCOPES by Kimmie Rose

Adams Street Publishing Co.

What’s a little thing that drives you nuts?

Parents band together this school year Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) RECYCLEABLES PUT IN THE TRASH CAN.

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) MISUSE OF A COMMA.

Editorial

Virgo

August 23 - September 22

I spent weeks agonizing over the decision whether to send our kids to in-person, hybrid school or to attempt online learning. With only weeks to decide, there were too many questions left unanswered, too few details, and too many risks and unknowns. It felt like a lose-lose situation. While I had many concerns, one that repeatedly surfaced was the need for socialization. My kids (7 and 5) have each other, but they need and enjoy spending time with peers. And that was one hurdle I felt I could address. I contacted my friends with children approximately the same ages and worked out a schedule for educational playdates. We meet with only one family at a time and space the meetings apart 5-7 days. We stay outside, as the weather allows. Pulling from our own cultures and educational backgrounds, each parent teaches a mini-lesson that lasts 10-20 minutes— yoga, reading, writing, Arabic, American Sign Language (ASL), baking, art — d then we allow the kids to play while the parents sit and chat. We decided to make the best of an awful situation, utilizing small groups and pooling our resources to teach our children the things we wished they could learn in school. These educational playdates give the kids, AND us, time to socialize. Socialization is good for the mental health of our children and parents, as well, while teaching and working from home, also crave human connection. What are you doing for schooling for your children during this unprecedented time? How are you handling everything? We’d love to hear from you. Leave your thoughts on our website, Facebook, or Instagram: @ toledoareaparent.

In it together, Erin Schoen Marsh

Toledo Parent Assignment Editor

Virgo children know what they want, when they want it, and have no qualms about letting others know their wishes! Creatures of habit, Virgos do best with a set routine. September will spark their creative minds, so make sure you are flush with arts and crafts supplies to allow them to express their naturally creative spirit. Virgos are very type-A and prefer simple surroundings without a lot of distractions, so keep their work/creative space neat and de-cluttered. Find a specific place within your home to exhibit their work, which will allow them to feel proud of their work while also scratching that itch for routine and order.

-----

(toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) SHOES IN THE HOUSE. Associate Editor Athena Cocoves (athena@adamsstreetpublishing.com) OTHER DRIVERS! Web Guru Autumn Stevens

(digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) NOT “LITTLE” BUT LITTERING. STOP KILLING OUR PLANET. Contributing Writers Erin Marsh, Lindsey Melden, Kimmie Rose, Dina Sobhan

Advertising

Sales Coordinator/Classifieds Jenny Leach (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) DIRTY DISHES IN THE SINK! Sales Bonnie Hunter (bhunter@adamsstreetpublishing.com) LOST SOCKS. Suzanne Bell (sbell@adamsstreetpublishing.com) SEARCHING FOR THINGS. Katie Emans (kemans@adamsstreetpublishing.com) FINDING MY KEYS. Shannon Meyer (smeyer@adamsstreetpublishing.com) PEOPLE THAT SMACK THEIR LIPS WHEN CHEWING. Darlene Euler (deuler@adamsstreetpublishing.com) DROPPING LOOSE CHANGE.

Art/Production

Production Manager Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) TRASH OVERFLOWING. Senior Designer Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) LIARS. Graphic Design

Libra

September 23 - October 22 The sign of balance, your Libra child strives to keep the peace and maintain balance, which is a difficult task given the current environment. Because of this, they may be unusually quiet and detached this autumn. Their withdrawal does not necessarily signify sadness, however, but rather that they are fine-tuning their own likes and dislikes and absorbing what’s going on in the world around them. Come up with a way for your little Libra to express his/ her thoughts, either through a daily journal, a whiteboard, or a daily time designated for verbally sharing. While activities may be limited, take your little Libra out of the house. Hike a trail at a local metropark, take a bike ride around the neighborhood, or sit outside and watch the sun set.

toledoparent.com

Assignment Editor Erin Marsh

• SEPT/OCT 2020 • www.toledoparent.com

Kelli Miller (kmiller@adamsstreetpublishing.com) COMPUTER ERRORS.

Administration Accounting Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) WHEN SOMEONE DOESN’T PICK UP AFTER THEMSELVES. Distribution Shannon Meyer (distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com) PEOPLE THAT CRACK THEIR GUM.

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 © 2020 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without written permission of the publisher.

Also publishers of:

Audited by

Check out some of these cuties from our Cover Kid Photo Contest! Visit toledoparent.com for more. Have a family photo from around T-town that you want to share? Email them to

Candice (8)

Aria (5)

Ameila (11mos)

Mila Lucas

Harley 10, Mac 3, Beau 7

Parker (1) and Skylar (3) Nelson Christian Lee Hagen (3, Perrysburg) at the Garden View U-Pick Flower Garden in Grand Rapids, OH

Saoirse (3.5)

Luca (1)

David (2)

www.toledoparent.com â&#x20AC;˘ SEPT/OCT 2020 â&#x20AC;˘

By Erin Holden and Erin Schoen Marsh

Momentum Festival 2020 Looks Different Launched in 2017, the Momentum Festival has been presented as a three-day festival of music and art along the Maumee River, celebrating the revitalization in downtown Toledo. With a spotlight on the arts, Momentum has provided free and accessible programming to thousands of attendees. This year, the Momentum Festival will shift to a combination of virtual and discoverable elements to safely engage attendees in arts and cultural experiences while complying with COVID- 19 restrictions. Festival activities will kick off on Thursday, Sept. 17 in downtown Toledo and continue through mid-October. Through a blend of safe and separate virtual experiences, as well as discoverable artwork that graces public spaces, the goal is to “keep the momentum going” during the pandemic. Discoverable activities are self-guided and promote exploration in the downtown and uptown areas and include existing public art infrastructure along with new projects and activities. Virtual experiences are designed to promote artists and provide safe access to artwork, as an opportunity to connect visual artists with sales opportunities, and performing and literary artists with access to an audience. All Momentum Festival events are free and open to the public. Additional information is available at momentumtoledo.org.

TMA Opens More Exhibitions and Classes The Toledo Museum of Art (TMA) continues to reopen areas of the TMA campus that were shuttered due to the coronavirus pandemic. TMA reopened, in a limited capacity, at the end of June with new hours and procedures. In July, the Glass Pavilion, Classic Court and the popular exhibition Yayoi Kusama: Fireflies on the Water reopened, along with limited dining in the Café, outdoor programs and glassblowing demonstrations. In August, more galleries and special exhibitions opened and classes for youth and families resumed. Visitors are still required to reserve a free museum pass to enter the Museum. Twenty passes are available each half hour and can be reserved online at tickets.toledomuseum.org or by phone at 419-255-8000 ext. 7448. Face coverings are required for entrance.

Springforest Family Physicians

We’re Digging It

The Olander Park System recently opened the Fossil Park Digging Quarry, to allow aspiring paleontologists to dig and learn! The Park, open for limited hours with reservations mandatory, has the policy to ensure that park staff can enforce social distancing guidelines for everyone’s safety. Masks are highly encouraged in all areas of Fossil Park, and they are mandatory anytime you interact with staff and volunteers. The Park is offering one-hour sessions from 8:30am to 3:40pm, Friday through Saturday. Fossil Park Quarry, 5675 Centennial Rd., Sylvania. 419-882-8313. Register at olander.recdesk.com. Free

Diaper Bank Swaddles Lucas County Infants The Junior League of Toledo established As We Grow, a diaper bank that distributes essential infant supplies, such as diapers, wipes and diaper rash creams, to Lucas County residents. These supplies are integral to healthy infant development and the mental health of mothers. It’s estimated that 1 in 3 American families experience diaper need. Babies without clean diapers are exposed to more potential health risks and are less likely to be accepted to daycares, leaving parents unable to attend work. According to the National Diaper Bank Network, Ohio has 411,064 children under the age of 3. Keeping these children clean, dry and healthy is key to building a solid foundation. What’s more, women who have diaper needs for their children report more difficulty with stress management, postpartum depression and trauma, all of which also impact a child’s health and development. The Junior League of Toledo will be raising money along with soliciting diaper, wipes and diaper rash cream donations from the community. Social service agencies and other community partners will distribute the supplies to clients who have diaper needs. Donations can be made at JuniorLeagueToledo.org. -ESM

Introducing a New Addition to Our Practice SPRINGFOREST FAMILY PHYSICIANS WELCOMES CHRISTINA JAWORSKI, CNP As a Certified Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years experience, Tina has advanced education and training in the diagnosis and management of common medical conditions, including chronic illnesses. Tina is available to provide individualized primary health care and education to patients 7 years and older, supplementing the comprehensive services offered in our practice. Medical Histories • Physical Exams • Well Exams, Including Well Women & Child Care Infection & Injury Treatment • Chronic Disease Management • Prescribes Medication & Treatments

3020 N. McCord Rd., Suite 200 • 419-843-3349 Now accepting new patients • Same day appointments available

Croak Asset Management Celebrates 1 Year Croak Asset Management celebrates one-year in downtown Toledo. As an industry veteran, Tim Croak decided to move his firm downtown to join in the revival of the Toledo community. They have done just that, donating funds to multiple non-profit organizations and even volunteering weekly to help the community through the recent pandemic. For more information about Croak Asset Management, visit their website at camtoledo.com. -

Hours: Mondays - Thursdays 8:30am - 5:00pm & Fridays 8:30am - 3:45pm 6

• SEPT/OCT 2020 • www.toledoparent.com

Something for Everyone!

Cuts for Kids

Do your kids absolutely dread haircuts? Luckily, a local option makes your little ones change their perceptions about getting a trim: Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids offer a playground, TVs at each haircut station and even monster truck seating! Bonus: Cookie Cutters’ stylists don’t exclusively work with kids— adults can get a haircut there too (maybe justhowever not in the monster truck). Cuts are by appointment only. 9am-2pm. Monday-Saturday. Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids, 25684 N. Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg. 419-279-2631. haircutsarefun.com/ perrysburg-oh —EH

30 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Call Today To Enroll! Classes Start September 8th

Fall Class schedule on our website. Class Schedules, pricing & info found online!

Tune In

Attention parents with children who have a passion for singing: a local recording studio has the perfect “professional outlet for their talents. uTunes has studio sessions available ranging from standard song selections from uTunes studio versions to other custom packages that include songwriting and learning how to be a producer-- showcasing young rising stars who have recorded with uTunes. Rates start at $195 for a 1.5 hour recording session. 11am-11pm. Monday-Friday. 10am-6:30pm. Sunday. uTunes, 2413 Collingwood Ave. 419-708-7937. utunestoledo.com —EH

Yark Automotive Group’s Yark Chevrolet has moved

Yark Automotive Group’s Yark Chevrolet has moved from 9830 Waterville-Swanton Rd. to a newly constructed dealership at 26997 N. Dixie Hwy. in Perrysburg. The new dealership features a 7,000 square-foot showroom, a three-lane service center, 25 service bays, a car wash, a detail center, internet cafe, coffee bar, children’s play area and a large conference room (available to local civic and charitable organizations). yarkchevrolet.com/yark-chevrolet-perrysburg-oh —EH

HOW DOES HIS FUTURE LOOK?

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432 N. Superior St. | Toledo | (419) 464-7000

Croak Asset Management, LLC is registered as an investment adviser with the state of Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana. Information contained herein does not involve the rendering of personalized investment advice, but is limited to the dissemination of general information.

www.toledoparent.com • SEPT/OCT 2020 •

Mainous, right of center holding her granddaughter Hollyn, with her family (minus another 12 family members!)

EXCEPTIONAL FAMILIES for parents of children with special needs

Benefits of Learning Sign Language

ASL as part of a home curriculum

by Lindsey Melden and Erin Schoen Marsh COVID has presented many problems for the educational community, but one rising trend is the teaching of languages in virtual and homeschooling situations. Parents who have always wished their children could learn another language at school are using this time to introduce their little ones to Arabic, Spanish, French, American Sign Language (ASL) and more. Language connects human beings, creates relationships, and opens doors to a different culture and way of thinking. Learning basic sign language can allow communication with the deaf community, create neural pathways that help the brain function more efficiently, and link the mind and body in ways that other languages do not. Plus, for those who are deaf and hard of hearing, knowing basic sign language can make all the difference--especially now that lip reading is impossible with masks. Language deprivation According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), the first five years of a child’s life are critical for brain development and language formation. When a child is deaf or hard of hearing (HoH), their brain has a harder time collecting language input. Children receive audible messages all day through TV, radio, and surrounding conversations. Yet when a child can’t hear, skills developed by those experiences are lost. When sufficient language exposure is blocked during the critical years of early development (birth to age 5), children can develop language deprivation with long-term negative effects. Sign language can fill in those gaps, creating a rich and vibrant foundation of language and connection, explains the Nyle DiMarco Foundation. The history of ASL Julie Mainous, a mom and grandma from Delta, was born with normal hearing to two deaf parents and learned ASL as her first language. The term for hearing children of deaf adults is CODA. She is a Toledo area interpreter and tutor and says, “Signing is a part of me. I am drawn to it. It is so visual and vibrant.”

Mainous’ father was raised when the medical opinion of the time was to discourage Ddeaf and HoH children from learning sign language. In extreme cases, children would have their hands tied down at school to keep them from signing. The thought was that sign language would actually delay speech development and leave children more isolated, although there is no empirical evidence to support this. Even though ASL has existed for nearly 200 years, it has only recently become an accepted tool for parents to help their children acquire valuable language skills and be successful, and many school districts, including local school districts, discourage learning ASL for HoH students. Emmah Artino, mom and a resident of Toledo’s Old West End, is a Toledo area interpreter with a deaf spouse who is also a child of deaf parents (CODA). Her Deaf father had an experience almost identical to Mainous’ father: “My dad had his hands tied and struck at his ‘mainstream’ school and wasn’t allowed to learn sign until he was 18. He was told he would never be more than a janitor. He became an engineer.” “It’s a common story that many deaf people share,” Artino continues, ”... being denied language and therefore opportunities, and not all deaf/HoH are as lucky in their lives because of [that denial of opportunities].” Resources for families Mainous loves that she was taught ASL as a child and feels it has helped her in life. “It’s not ever going to hurt them,” she says. “Just give your child all the tools to communicate that you can. See what they thrive on, and then you can adapt.” Amy Figliomeni, Teacher of the Deaf/Hard of Hearing for Educational Service Center of Lake Erie West, says, “Watching young deaf students become

empowered when given access to language through ASL is transformative…. Through immersion in ASL, the child is able to be included in communication at home and school and to express him/herself, which reduces frustrations, builds relationships, and provides the foundation for future learning.” For those who would like to learn ASL, Artino advises, “I highly recommend finding a language model or coach” because finding a native signer is important for hearing parents who don’t sign themselves. Both Artino and Mainous recommend the Deaf Services Center of NW Ohio as a local resource for parents seeking interpreters, advocacy or ASL classes. Artino also organizes all of the interpreters for Toledo Pride, and she encourages any parent who is on the fence about teaching ASL to their child to “find deaf and HoH people and listen to their stories.” Signing for ALL kids Not only does learning ASL greatly benefit children with hearing loss, but it’s also beneficial for any child. Children with speech delays and speech apraxia can benefit from using ASL to communicate their thoughts, and children receive the same intellectual benefits from learning ASL as they do learning any second language. Parenting is not a one-size-fits-all experience, but providing children language tools and a new way to connect with the wider world is a gift in and of itself.

Mainous interpreting at her church, Monclova Road Baptist Church, signing “one hour.”

Benefits of learning ASL: for any child

Connection: children can communicate their frustrations when speech prevents them from doing so.

Good for the brain: research shows

that learning a second language boosts problem solving, critical thinking, concentration, memory and more.

Good for school: bilingual children

have improved reading, writing and math scores.

Confidence: learning a new language gives children a sense of empowerment and accomplishment.

Empathy and inclusion: bilingual

children have more positive attitudes toward other cultures, and when more people know ASL, more Deaf/HoH children will be included in classrooms and adults in workplaces. When everyone is included, everyone wins. Sources: National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Nyle DiMarco Foundation.

• SEPT/OCT 2020 • www.toledoparent.com

tween the lines

advice for parents with children 10-16

Mini Motions Celebrates 30 Years

Owner Sue Hays fondly recalls dancing through the last 3 decades “We all dance. It’s in our blood,” quipped Sue Hays, owner of familyowned and operated Mini Motions Dance Center. Hays taught all three of her children to dance, as well as her three grandchildren. She reminisces, “I thought age two was young to start, but little Stella had tap shoes on by 12-months old. I think her fifth word was, ‘tap, tap, tap’ as [she tapped on my] kitchen floor, and then it was ‘plie’ as she bent her little knees. Family support Hays’ granddaughter Brooklyn (8) has assisted in the 2/3 classes since she was six, and Brooklyn fondly thinks of the dance studio as her second home. Lincoln (5) is a tumbler and a ball thrower between classes. Sue’s daughters Melissa and Devon are teachers at Mini Motions and her son, Brad, is her “biggest fan and supporter.”

“They say that time flies when you’re having fun,” says Hays. “Now, 30 years later, [I think], ‘How could this happen so fast?’ Every year and every day, I’m always excited to walk into classes.” Still a thrill Nothing makes Hays happier than watching a reserved child finally inch out to join the class for the first time. For Hays, it’s all about seeing the changes in her students, watching them grow, and bringing joy through dance. “Little ones crave variety…[so] they learn tap, jazz, ballet and tumbling, rotating [through] every week. Variety keeps their attention and enthusiasm.” Hays frequently receives compliments from parents on the age-appropriateness of the music selection, costumes and dance movements, as well as the affordability of both lessons and costumes. Tap and ballet shoes are provided, which is a bonus for those growing feet. Over the

The Mini Motions team celebrates 30 years of dance. years, Mini Motions has won numerous awards from Toledo Area Parent Family Favorites, including top-rated Dance Studio, #1 Mom-Owned Business and runner-up Gymnastics Center. Keep dancing “As I approach age 60, the dance families are what stick with me the most (like) the 4-year-old I taught who is now driving off to college [or the kids I taught who] are now bringing their [own children] to lessons.”

“COVID-19 will not bring me down,” Hays continues. “We just have to get back on our feet. It’s true that dance is therapy--movement helps individuals achieve emotional, physical and social integration. It promotes self-awareness, self-esteem and a safe space for expression of feeling. I won’t talk about how difficult it was during this pandemic, but [I will] say that when the doors reopened, it was a mind, body and spirit connection. Especially now [with the] mental and emotional challenges going on, I can’t think of a better thing to do but DANCE!”

www.toledoparent.com • SEPT/OCT 2020 •

Back 2

School guide

Directing the Digital Drama Parenting in the Age of Electronics By Phoebe Samuel Rapp

“Do not prepare the road for your child, prepare your child for the road.” This practical piece of wisdom proves even truer when applied to cyber safety, which is more pertinent now more than ever as children spend more time on their screens than pre-coronavirus. Encourage self regulating and self monitoring Monica Abdelkodous, a school psychologist and mother of four, advises that conversations regarding digital responsibility should happen before

electronics are introduced: “Encourage your child to self regulate and selfmonitor. Praise his successes and talk through the short-comings.” Abdelkodous suggests that when your child fails to meet expectations, ask him to talk through his perspective, noting that his self-observation may provide insight and empower him to make better choices in the future. Set boundaries and limits and be consistent with enforcement.

ORTHODONTICS HAERIAN LUDWIG HANSEN SI MON

Members of the MVCDS Upper School student support team, in discussing the issue, have the following suggestions for screen use: “...children’s brains are not fully developed, and... they are not able to regulate their own electronic usage. Adolescents need adult support...in using electronics responsibly and limiting excessive use. Implementing docking stations in the evening, in order to keep electronics limited during sleep time is a benefi-

cial strategy. Parents can also help by modeling healthy electronic use and setting up ‘no electronic’ times for the entire family.” Prepare your child Ultimately, straightforward and sincere talks about being a responsible digital citizen is how to “prepare your child for (avoiding dangerous parts of) the road.”

Other practical tips for dealing with cyber safety If you discover... Disturbing, destructive, or inappropriate content: Use this exposure as an opportunity for learning. Be ready to answer questions and take time to think about the message you want to convey to counteract the content your child saw. Child unknowingly posts content that endangers him/her: Apps like Familylink can help by allowing you to set restrictions and alerting you to your child’s digital activity. Make certain your child understands the relative permanence of posted content.

SMILE...

you got this

MAUMEE 4413 Keystone Maumee, OH 43537 419.887.1247

L A M B E RT V I L L E 7928 Secor Rd. • P.O. Box 860 Lambertville, MI 48144 734.854.6221

Cyberbullying or predatory activity: Common Sense Media is an online resource to help you navigate the issues of cyberbullying and online predators.

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Digital addiction: Look for signs of addiction, such as overreacting when s/he is not permitted to use a device or you limit screen time. The sooner you take steps to offset the addiction, the better self control your child can exercise.

• SEPT/OCT 2020 • www.toledoparent.com

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BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

When Schools Go Above and Beyond Ottawa Hills trial program influence COVID reopening By Erin Schoen Marsh

COVID-19 has confirmed for teachers, parents and students the importance of a traditional classroom setting. Students prefer learning in a real classroom over virtual attendance. Social skills absorbed through peer interaction cannot be learned virtually. Yet for medically fragile and immunocompromised students, physically attending school has its challenges, and some districts offer a combination of traditional versus virtual learning. Ottawa Hills High School (OHHS) piloted a trial iPad program last school year, offering a hybrid mix of virtual and traditional learning, and this pilot program is now included as part of the 2020-2021 reopening plans for Ottawa Hills school district.

Avalon Budd, the student for whom the pilot program was developed, has hypophosphatasia (HPP), a rare genetic disease commonly called “soft bones.” A person with hypophosphatasia fails to produce an enzyme which delivers calcium to the bones, which results in abnormal and hollow teeth and bones, serious mental and physical fatigue, and metabolic challenges throughout the body’s many systems. Avalon had accommodations made for her by the administration of her grade school, Lial Catholic School, which took an active role in working with this challenge. When looking for high schools, her parents Deborah Ayres and Douglas Hobley were impressed with Ottawa Hills’ reputation for high

educational standards. After speaking with administrators to develop a plan to accommodate Avie’s needs, Deborah and Doug were thrilled that OHHS faculty and staff were on board with the pilot program. Meeting her needs Jill Michaelson, Director of Student Services at Ottawa Hills, explains, “When we met with Avalon’s family, and we heard about things that worked and didn’t work in the past, we figured out how we could meet her needs here. We wanted to have the academic rigor that Avalon very clearly needed but still be able to respond to her medical needs as well.” Michaelson continues, “I think it took all of 30 minutes for our IT staff to train the teachers, and the teacher buy-in was phenomenal. They had a commitment to Avalon. They were like, ‘Tell us how to make this work and we will do it.’ We worked together as a team to address any kinks that came up, which wasn’t often.” As each of Avie’s teachers has an iPad, the process is simple: the teacher turns on the iPad, which is located on a tripod in the classroom, and livestreams each class to Avie at home. Avie is able to ask questions, follow along, and even participate in group work. Ottawa Hills transitioned to Google Classroom last school year, so whenever there is a virtual presentation (PowerPoint, notes, etcetera), Avie accesses those in real time through her laptop, while still being “in class” via the iPad. Last year, she utilized the iPad option about one day each week and attended live classes the other days of the week. Teachers were surprised at the benefits of the program; they said the iPad program was “the next best thing” to having Avie physically present in the classroom. It also ended up being much less work for the teachers as they didn’t

• SEPT/OCT 2020 • www.toledoparent.com

need to compile, deliver and grade makeup work. The virtual learning option for Ottawa Hills includes many of the same details as The iPad Program. Student responsibility is key Before initiating the program, Avie signed a contract and agreed to take responsibility for any work outside the classroom and to clearly communicate with her teachers. Her parents said they “have very little extra involvement, if any. The main relationship between the student and her teacher remains intact with no extra stress. We do not have to intercede or homeschool at all. It is the closest thing to keeping things ‘normal’ for her,” Ayres adds. ”Considering over 38% of female high school students suffer from an anxiety disorder today, this program clearly supports lower stress for our daughter and maintaining her mental wellness, as well as her physical health.” Benjamin McMurray, OHHS Principal, adds, “She was able to stay connected with her peers and be part of the school culture. She was still a fundamental part of what’s going on in our school...it was a situation she could thrive in. Makes you think about all of the other medically-fragile students who could possibly benefit from something slightly different.” The administrators and teachers at Ottawa Hills could have refused the request to create this pilot program, as other local high schools had, but they went above and beyond to listen to Avalon’s needs and figure out a way to address them. Then with the knowledge from that interaction the administrators and teachers shaped this school year’s reopening plans. “This was the next best thing to attending class in person,” McMurray concludes. “It was not the same, but it was pretty darn close.”

Mask-Wearing: 6 Tips for Kids Get your kids ready for school

By Tiffany Pottkotter, MSN, MA, LPCC, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at ProMedica. As we approach a new school year with mask mandates for children, it is important for parents to help their kids adjust to mask-wearing. Experts agree it is imperative to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations and to check for updates as recommendations change according to new scientific research. The current CDC guidelines for children are: 1. The CDC recommends that everyone 2 years and older wear a cloth face covering that covers their nose and mouth in public settings, particularly where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. 2. Cloth face coverings should NOT be put on babies or children younger than 2 because of the danger of suffocation. Children younger than 2 years of age are listed as exceptions, as well as anyone who has trouble breathing or is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the face covering without assistance.[i] Individual school requirements vary, so parents should make sure they understand their children’s specific school masking guidelines. It can be helpful for parents to explain to children that mask-wearing is a rule right now.

Six tips to help your children adjust to mask-wearing:

To properly doff (take off) a mask: Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer. Touch the part behind your ear and remove straight forward. Fold the mask in half. Put it in a paper bag, labeled with your name.

Have two bins in your laundry room for masks: one marked for dirty masks and one marked for clean masks. These designations make it easy to know which masks are contaminated and which are available for use. It is also important to teach your kids that their masks are just for them and are not to be shared.

Practice wearing masks and gradually increase time. It is so important to avoid putting the burden on teachers to teach your kids how to wear a mask. They should be familiar with and used to wearing them before school begins. Maybe just start with wearing them for 10 seconds. As children adjust to wearing masks, parents should gradually increase the time. Once the children are fairly acclimated, have them try reading with their mask on or doing homework for five minutes. Continue to increase the time and vary the activities until they are largely adjusted to mask-wearing.

With a little preparation, many children can adjust to mask-wearing without much difficulty. The sooner parents start helping their children make a gradual transition, the better prepared the children will be for the new school year. To buy your face masks locally, check out our list of local vendors on toledoareaparent.com.

Model a good attitude and set an example. Wear your own mask and keep a positive attitude. If you are going to the store and want your child to wear a mask, be sure to put yours on first.

These two simple things--modeling mask-wearing and doing so with a positive attitude--affects the majority of a child’s behavior. If the parent has a clear approach (even if you do not agree with it), the child will be more likely to follow suit and do the same.

Explain the importance of mask-wearing. Make masks fun! After all, superheroes wear masks. Parents have an opportunity to teach children that mask-wearing is helpful and important--not a punishment. Based on the latest research, it is considered one of the best things children can do to help stop the spread of germs. They can literally save lives by wearing a mask, so parents can emphasize that masks help protect others, making the child like superheroes who save others.

Size the mask appropriately. Children should have masks that fit snugly around the child’s face to help prevent germs from spreading. It should cover the nose to chin and fit comfortably around the ears.

Have your child pick his/her own design for the face mask! If you can sew, you can sit down and make them, but there are easy, no-sew ways to make a mask, too. If your child is old enough, s/he can even help! Another tip is to use a different fabric for the front and the back. This helps children easily distinguish the front from the back of the mask.

Learn the proper way to mask and unmask. “Donning” and “doffing” are typical words in an organization where employees put on and remove work-related protective gear. They can be great vocabulary words to teach kids. To properly don (put on) a mask: Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer. Touch only the part that wraps around your ears while you secure your mask. Gently pull below the chin to adjust the mask to the position covering your nose to your chin.

www.toledoparent.com • SEPT/OCT 2020 •

Healthy Tips for Back to School Immunizations, Well-Child Visits and Proper Hygiene are Critical By Dr. Brad Lucas, Chief Medical Officer for Buckeye Health Plan Whether you chose to send your child back to school, are homeschooling and supplementing with the occasional playdate, or are participating in the learning “pods” that are receiving a lot of publicity, there are general guidelines that can keep your children safe in each instance. Buckeye Health Plan encourages parents to recognize the importance of preventative care and proper hygiene this school year to keep their children healthy as they head back to school this fall. Preparations look different amid continuing concerns about COVID-19. Check off these back to school items to give your child a safe and healthy start to the new school year: Immunizations Did you know that one in three Ohio children, 19 to 35 months, has not received all recommended vaccines? As children enter grade school, many remain behind on their vaccines. According to 2017 Ohio Department of Health data, only 62 percent of the approximately 2,000 Ohio elementary schools met the state standard for incoming Kin-

dergartners by the October deadline. “Getting the right vaccinations is a safe and effective way to protect your children from potentially life-threatening diseases,” said Dr. Brad Lucas, Buckeye Health Plan Chief Medical officer. “It also helps keep other children safe by preventing the spread of these diseases to children who cannot get vaccinated because they are too young, have severe allergic reactions or have compromised immune systems.” Your family doctor or pediatrician can give you the list of immunizations required at every stage of your child’s development. Even if your child has missed immunizations early on, they can get caught up. The CDC provides a recommended immunization schedule for children, from birth to 18 years of age. Well-child physicals Many parents may be concerned about immediate health threats as their children return to school. Detecting hidden health challenges and milestone tracking are very important. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends

Educate children on the importance of:

Washing your hands. Teach

and reinforce proper handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds--or sing “The ABC Song”-and use hand sanitizer when soap and water is unavailable.

Being mindful of others when coughing or sneezing. Cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or elbow and wash your hands after. Wear a mask to prevent the spread of the virus.

that children visit their pediatrician once a year from ages 3 to 21. Additionally, if your child plays a sport in school, he or she must have a completed physical exam prior to tryouts. A visit to your child’s doctor is a critical opportunity to detect a possible illness or developmental delay and to address known health challenges related to sleep patterns, nutrition among other concerns. “Your pediatrician is there to partner with you and to help track your child's progress throughout their school years,” sAleraid Dr. Lucas. “These visits are just as important as sick visits.” Buckeye Health Plan ensures members have access to vaccinations and wellchild visits by covering care at no cost to them. Buckeye’s MyHealth Pays® (a rewards program) offers families reward dollars for completing these back-toschool checklist items. Well-child visits

• SEPT/OCT 2020 • www.toledoparent.com

Reducing the use of shared

items like school supplies and other communal items.

Staying home when they are sick. Students are encouraged to stay home if they are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, have been sick or recently came in contact with someone with COVID-19.

Maintaining proper distanc-

ing between seats in the classroom, hallway, bathrooms or lunchroom and when in the gym or on the playground.

can earn up to $75 a year on a Walmart® or Sam’s Club debit card. Plus, Buckeye provides free transportation to the doctor to improve access to care. Practice Proper Hygiene As children gather in the classroom or in pods or on playdates, proper hygiene will help decrease the spread of illness. Nearly 22 million school days are lost annually due to the common cold. This year, families may be concerned about the spread of COVID-19 in classroom settings. Research has shown that proper hygiene and social distancing are the best ways to fight the virus. The State, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organization have provided additional guidance to schools to help decrease the spread of viruses. Buckeye encourages children to do their part as well.

Open House Guide 2020

By Emily Remaklus In normal times, children spend about 1,000 hours each year in school, not including extracurricular activities. With school being such a huge part of a child’s life, it is important to find the perfect fit where a child can feel comfortable, challenged, and engaged. Fortunately, in the Toledo area we are lucky to have many school options for our youngest residents. We’ve compiled a list to help you determine which schools you’ll want to check out for the young ones in your home!

iLead Spring Meadows 1615 Timberwolf Dr., Holland 419-491-7423 | ileadspringmeadows.org Open House: Check website to schedule a tour iLead stands for international, leadership, entrepreneurial development, arts, and design thinking which are the primary focuses of this public charter school. Any child in K-8th grade in the Toledo area can attend iLead as there are no district boundaries. The school is similar to public schools in the sense that it follows common core standards and participates in state testing; however, the approach to meeting these standards is very different from many public schools. iLead emphasises Project Based Learning which allows students to learn and apply content standards through their own discovery and research which they then can apply to various projects. This allows students to take ownership of their education, but is still facilitated by teachers. Also unique to the school is the multi-age classes where children of different grades work together in the same room. This allows children to get more individualized attention and helps them build social skills. Working and busy parents would also appreciate the school’s before and after school care options.

The Maritime Academy of Toledo 803 Water St., Toledo 419-244-9999 | maritimeacademy.us Open House: August 3 - 7 (a virtual Open House will also be available) The Maritime Academy of Toledo helps students in grades 6-12 develop the skills they need for the next stage of their lives. The academy has a strong focus around nautical/maritime-themed studies; however, like any middle school and high school, this academy also focuses on all core content and standards for Ohio’s public schools. Students graduating from the academy are leaders, innovative, and have strong character. Additionally, graduates can leave the academy with credentials to attend a traditional four-year college, start a career on a commercial vessel, earn a spot with the US Merchant Marine Academy in New York, go through an officer training program, or attend a state maritime academy for undergraduate and graduate programs leading to mariner careers. These are all results of the first state-approved Maritime Career Tech Education Program in the United States. Additional programs include a culinary and hospitality program, and apprenticeships for building trade work. This academy would be a great fit for a student who learns well with hands-on activities. CONT’D ON P 16

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CONT’D FROM P 15

St. Francis de Sales High School 2323 W. Bancroft St., Toledo 419-531-1618 | sfstoledo.org Open House: St. Francis de Sales works to help young boys transition into Christian practicing gentlemen. The school provides a moral, intellectual, physical, and social foundation for all its students. The high school has been recognized as one of the top 25 Catholic high schools in the nation and it has an extraordinary Advanced Placement (AP) program which is highly accredited with 20 AP classes. The success rates on those tests have been recognized by the College Board as some of the best in the state. Along with academics, St. Francis focuses on providing opportunities for the young men to deepen their faith through retreats, mission trips, and volunteer projects. Athletics is also a source of pride as the school has 27 state championships in 7 different sports. The school has great athletic facilities to promote physical development. In addition to teams, the school has intramural sports as well as a variety of academic clubs, a yearbook committee, chorus, bands, musicals, a school TV station, a school newspaper, and much more.

St. Ursula Academy 4025 Indian Rd., Toledo 419-531-1693 | toledoua.org Open House: November 15th Noon-3pm St. Ursula Academy is Toledo’s oldest all female Catholic college prep school for girls from 6th grade to 12th grade. With over 550 students enrolled, the school still has an impressive 12:1 student to teacher ratio, which means much more individualized attention for students. The ultimate mission of the school is to ensure that the young women embrace their own possibilities, explore new passions, grow in their faith, and become leaders in school and the community. The school has 20 Advanced Placement courses as well as honors courses to challenge students and prepare them with the possibility of college credits while in high school. Additionally, the school provides a one of a kind “best fit” college quest where students work throughout high school to find the best college for them. In addition to academics, the school has 13 varsity sports as well as a great fine arts and performing arts program.

Children’s Discovery Center Locations in Toledo, Holland, Perrysburg, and Waterville 419-867-8570 | childrensdiscoverycenters.com Open House: Call for an appointment With centers throughout the Toledo area, Children’s Discovery Center is a great close option for many families. This early care facility is a place where students learn through exploration, and it works hard to support children and families in a creative Christian environment. Children’s Discovery Center has programs for infants, toddlers, preschool, and offers a Discovery Express School for kindergarten aged children. Additionally, Camp Discovery is a summer camp program for school aged children. The school follows Reggio Emilia’s approach to learning which focuses on creating strong, powerful, and capable children. The center’s educators are degreed teachers who go through on-going training during the year. The programs are all Step Up to Quality star rated and the centers have won various local and national awards.

West Side Montessori Perrysburg: 13587 Roachton Rd., 419-874-9385 Toledo: 7115 W. Bancroft St., 419-866-1931 Montessoritoledo.org Open House: Contact to schedule a tour Montessori is a child-centered education approach where the students take ownership and a lead in their education. A lot of the methods include self-directed activity, collaborative play, and hands-on learning. West Side Montessori works on nurturing the whole child by creating a school environment that focuses just as much on the heart of the child as it does on challenging the child’s intellect. Along with core academics, the school also believes in the importance of outdoor education, the arts, physical education, and technology education for the growth of each child. The school has very impressive student to teacher ratios ranging from 4:1 - 12:1 depending on the age group. Students from as young as toddlers up to 8th grade can enroll in West Side Montessori. Extracurricular activities are also offered and include a variety of options such as karate, soccer, chorus, and gardening.

Maumee Valley Country Day School 1715 S. Reynolds Rd., Toledo 419-381-1313 | mvcds.org Open House: September 3rd 6:30-8:30pm For those as young as three years old all the way up to 12th grade, Maumee Valley Country Day School has a place for all children. Education at Maumee Valley is personal, experiential, and global. Each child is viewed as an individual and children are taught in the means that best fits their learning style. Students learn by doing at Maumee Valley. The school provides real events and experiences where students can explore, ask questions, take risks, and develop a deeper learning from those experiences. Maumee Valley knows that students will eventually go on to explore the world, and in order to become global citizens students study global issues and work to solve the challenges that they see. One way the school is working to solve global issues is by partnering with Duke University and Johns Hopkins University as part of the Global Public Service Academy for Health where students travel and work around the world providing health services. In addition to the impressive academics, Maumee Valley also has a wonderful fine arts and performing arts program, athletics, college counseling, and a biliteracy program.

Sleek Academy 519 Ordway Ave., Bowling Green 419-353-3898 | sleekacademy.us Open House: August 13th 5-6pm A relatively new school, Sleek Academy opened its doors just two years ago in 2018. The newly renovated school knows the importance of the environment in which children learn, so the school has a health and wellness classroom, life skills room, and industrial arts classroom. Students are given a one-hour lunch/playground time because Sleek Academy understands the importance of social education. The educational methods are innovative with project-based lessons that allow students to learn curriculum along with life skills, independence, and confidence. STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) is the fundamental basis for the learning style of Sleek Academy. The hands-on approach to learning creates engagement for students and allows them to explore real-world scenarios.

Horizon Science Academy 2600 W. Sylvania Ave., Toledo 419-474-3350 | horizontoledo.org Open House: August 7th (student orientation) Horizon Science Academy is a school of high standards where all students work on rigorous lessons which ultimately lead to gaining skills necessary for success during and after high school. The small size of the school leads to personalized instruction and an environment where everyone feels seen and welcome. Being a science academy, the school does focus on math, science, and technology, but all core subjects are taught including foreign languages and performing arts. Students have the opportunity to participate in athletics, school clubs, cultural exchange programs, and various trips. With frequent parent teacher conferences, parent dinners and picnics, and a Parent Teacher Organization, parents play a large part in the success of the school and their child’s education.

• SEPT/OCT 2020 • www.toledoparent.com

www.toledoparent.com • SEPT/OCT 2020 •

MY FAMILY MY WAY

Parenting During COVID-19 By Erin Schoen Marsh One thing COVID-19 has taught mothers all over the country: women are still expected to, and actually do, shoulder the lion’s share of the household and child-rearing responsibilities. After months of juggling the added task of educating their children from home with all of their other regular duties, moms were then faced with summer vacation and full-time mothering...but with limited summer camp and childcare options. As school districts roll out their plans for 2020-2021, moms all over the world are faced with life-altering choices and decisions with little relief in sight. These Toledo area moms shared with Toledo Parent their experiences, explaining how life has been treating them since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. While each mom’s situation is different, there is a unifying thread of similarity: it’s not easy.

Heather Nye (South Toledo), mom to Lulah (3) and Dashiel (2): “I started 2020 feeling very burnt out. I am a stay-at-home mom with two active toddlers, and the fatigue and lack of breaks was really getting to me. My husband and I worked out a plan to rotate taking the kids out of the house and to hire a weekly sitter so I could catch my breath. Then two weeks later, the COVID lockdown began. My husband is an essential worker and my kids are not in school yet, so our day-to-day life didn’t change as much as it did for others. But for me, the hardest part has been knowing I don’t have many options for relief. Our favorite places to burn off energy are closed, and it feels like an unnecessary risk to have someone watch my kids when I am able to be present. As time has gone on, we have started visiting some of our family, so we have been able to get a break here and there. I am very grateful for any help. I have been able to utilize teletherapy to have a safe space to vent and talk about my fears with a therapist who reminds me to just handle today...don’t look ahead. It’s hard not to worry about an uncertain future, but I repeat that to myself when times are tough.”

Tiara Smith (Ottawa Hills), mom to Savannah (5) and Miles (4):

Best friends Heather Meyer, mom to Ella (11), and Katie Dougherty, mom to Roz (11):

“After taking time off three years ago to raise my nearly Irish twins, I re-entered the workforce this past winter just before COVID-19 hit. While our kids did relatively well in quarantine--or at least as well as can be expected--their desire for engagement, attention, and validation grew exponentially. I find myself dedicating far more of my time to parenting and being present with them than I do my work day. Luckily, I’m a freelance worker and I can plan my work around our schedules, but I wonder how sustainable this model is. With school potentially being delayed or looking drastically different in the fall, I know we’re going to need to make adjustments at a moment’s notice.”

Katie says, “Having an only child, we feel blessed that we have family and close friends who share the same ideas about social distancing, so we are able to stay in our little bubble and still be surrounded by those we love. Roz and I are both introverts, so it makes staying in our bubble very doable.” Heather (fondly referred to as Mama Heather), who works full-time, fosters kittens with Humane Ohio and took photos for The Front Porch Project with what little time she had left, adds, “Fostering kittens and spending time with our best friends have saved us.”

• SEPT/OCT 2020 • www.toledoparent.com

Aya Khalil (Ottawa Hills), mom to Aminah (7), Muhammad (5) and Halimah (1): Khalil laughs, joking, “I feel like I just sit and yell all day! In all seriousness, parenting while working from home during COVID shelter-in-place orders has been a challenge, to say the least. But I try to give myself some grace and ask for help when needed, whether that means letting the kids watch cartoons to keep them occupied so I can get some writing done or dropping them off with my family who live close by.”

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Phoebe Samuel Rapp (Sylvania), mom to Djeserit (10) and Ryker (8): “My family has every advantage to get us through a pandemic: a spacious home, a stocked pantry, multiple electronic devices per family member, and plenty of good humor to go around. I am the envy of my immigrant child-self! And yet, somehow I find myself languishing in some embarrassing self-pity. The idea that, “I don’t have it so bad especially compared to *insert worse off person or group here*” is destructive to well-being. I had to recognize that my family and I, and really all of humanity, are cycling through stages of grief and need to be allowed to feel all the things. While things are ‘fine,’ they are also ALL. TOO. MUCH.”

www.toledoparent.com • SEPT/OCT 2020 •

Anti-Racist Kids Movies as a Tool for Education Using children’s movies to teach anti-racism By RaShya Ghee

American racism is at the forefront of our national discourse... again. International protests, the assertion that Black Lives Matter, and discussions about America’s racial history are often discussed topics, prompting parents to ask what more they could be doing to raise compassionate, understanding and antiracist children. First Questioning yourself is a good start. Traditional learning environments don’t do a good job educating students accurately about America’s racial history. Most Americans have an opinion about race but haven’t participated in any formal education on American racism. Do the work of re-education about this country’s racial climate. Second Kids learn “normal” from their parents and learn a ton about race when you are not teaching. Be cognizant of that. Who do you invite over to your house to entertain? Whose house do you go to for BBQs and birthday parties? What is the racial composition of their toys? Their friends? Is their doctor, teacher, or clergy person diverse? All of these encounters send implicit racial messages about who is valuable and

which spaces are accessible and safe. Research shows that over 75% of white people have no friends of color. It’s incumbent on parents, especially white parents, to do two things: 1) talk through representations of racial stereiptypes with your child(ren) and explain what’s appropriate and inappropriate and 2) deliberately expose them to non-stereotypical representations. Research shows that children whose parents do not explicitly discuss race default to negative racial stereotypes. Film lessons Some blockbuster films targeted at younger audiences have broached these issues with subtlety. Race organically arises in two recently released kid movies, utilizing animation on the big screen to create more racially conscious compassionate little humans. Frozen II (free with Disney+ subscription) In Frozen II, Elsa is called upon to reckon with the truth of the past. She discovers a different people, who are ostensibly indigenous people, trapped under and within a mysterious fog, and she finds out that her grandfather perpetrated an injustice on these people that allows Arendelle, her magical

kingdom, to thrive and is the genesis of the fog. She discovers that in order to “do the next right thing,” she must endanger and potentially destroy the only kingdom she’s ever known if she hopes to right the historical wrong and save the whole of them. The beginning of the movie parrots the early American colonists’ interactions with America’s indigenous people. It also reveals how revisionist versions of history inform every subsequent decision by leaders and distorts our present understanding of the way our society evolved and is arranged. It highlights the way that history’s “winners” get to retell stories in a way that portrays them in a favorable light and minimizes or outright conceals their transgressions. This is the story of America. White people like Elsa and Anna are the living beneficiaries of their ancestors’ wrongdoing. Our country exists because of the genocide and theft of Native American people and lands then built on the backs and continued oppression of enslaved Africans and their descendants. Our nation is currently in a state of peril. White people must go on their own journey through the past and discover these truths. We all have a direct connection to these wrongdoings. Uncovering these connections, ascertaining the next right thing, then actually doing the next right thing, even if it means risking everything, might be the only thing that saves us all. Trolls World Tour (available for rental through Apple or Amazon Prime) In Trolls World Tour, Poppy gets an invitation from a troll royal she never knew existed. Her father irrationally warns her that “different is dangerous.” He recounts an inaccurate version of their history, the crux of which is that different trolls must live separately for the sake of harmony. Poppy rejects this reasoning as outdated and flawed, defies her father’s admonitions, and sets out on her own to unite the separate troll kingdoms. Though her efforts are well-intentioned, Poppy insists that all trolls are the same and that differences don’t matter,, which is synonymous with colorblindness. When Poppy reaches the funk/soul/ hip-hop trolls (ostensibly representative of Black Americans), they enhance her understanding:by explaining that differences are attached to varied histories and cultures and should not be disregarded. The accompanying rap touches on cultural appropriation and the way that the contributions of Black Americans to the arts have been concealed, exploited, and profited from, often without giving the actual artists credit. Recurring themes throughout the film are assimilation, diversity, revisionist history, colorblindness, and cultural appropriation.

• SEPT/OCT 2020 • www.toledoparent.com

Takeaway If you watch these movies without remarking on the inherent themes, your children/family will miss out on valuable teaching moments that will lead to more compassionate/informed humans as they navigate our American society. It’s important for parents, to re-educate themselves with the wealth of resources available on the internet. For concrete advice on discussing these films, see the article in its entirety on toledoparent. com. For additional resources, visit Ghee’s website: rashyaghee.com.

RaShya Ghee is a Toledo attorney, lecturer and mom whose expertise is American racism.

What's your favorite activity to do with your family? Traveling. What was your favorite book as a kid? Or one you loved reading to YOUR kids? I love reading Princess Hair to my daughter. Best holiday memory (or local memory) from when you were a kid? I don’t have any kid memories that stick out, but my husband and I hosted Christmas in 2016 at our home. It was such an eclectic mix of folks from family to people who I grew up with to colleagues, and it was the absolute best holiday party I’ve ever been to. What's your go-to activity when you have a few minutes to yourself? Reading or a loooooonnnggg, hot bath. Describe your life in five words or less. I’m a constant work in progress. What is your favorite Toledo hangout? Maumee River Describe Toledo in a sentence? Toledo has tons of grit and grind; it’s the kind of place that fortifies you.

You have a choice.

www.toledoparent.com • SEPT/OCT 2020 •

Thank You, Toledo! Full bellies and warm hearts By Karen L. Zickes

“We all need ... time to slow down, take a breath, and check in with one another. Food for the soul is just as important.”

Carrying a back pack can not only cause pain for the child but can change the whole spinal position.

The Zickes Pizza Posse-- then... SOME KEY POINTS:

• Carry what is only neccessary • Organize the Backpack Properly • Get a Backpack With Padded Shoulder Straps • Use Both Straps When You Wear a Backpack • Center the Backpack Load • Tighten the Straps of the Backpack

Off of 475, Exit 8 Dr. Shawn Brohl D.C., C.C.S.P. 6823 Spring Valley Dr. Holland, Ohio 43528 419-866-6325 22

or over 13 years it’s been a joy sharing my family’s dining adventures with all of you through Toledo Parent. Our travels have taken us near and far enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Sometimes we enjoyed a greasy spoon diner and other times, a more refined evening out for a special occasion. But with all of the dining experiences, one thing remained a constant: a celebration of the area’s fabulous and unique establishments and the folks who operate them. We met so many delightful and interesting people throughout the years, and it’s been a gift getting the chance to know a bit more about all of them. Everyone has a story, and I’m thankful so many shared theirs with us. Connections happen around the dinner table I didn’t expect to get emotional when I sat down to begin my Farewell Food Fight. I mean, it’s food! This is fun! But as I glanced over my spreadsheet listing Food Fight subjects — which began in January 2007 with Toledo icon Inky’s Italian Food and ended

... and now! with Fire Station, one of the area’s newest restaurants — a tidal wave of memories flooded over me. So much life has happened between those two dining adventures. So many stories, connections, ideas, teaching moments along with much laughter around our dinner tables. As I flip through the list that includes over 150 Food Fights, I vividly recall each and every visit like it was yesterday, partially because this was my “job,” but also because eating together as a family has always been very important to me. With everyone’s individual schedules and activities, it was often the only time we were

• SEPT/OCT 2020 • www.toledoparent.com

all in the same room together on any given day. We all need that time to slow down, take a breath, and check in with one another. Food for the soul is just as important. So many places, so little time It would be remiss of me not to highlight some of my family’s favorite spots we’ve found over the years, as well as the adventures of the Pizza Posse. (Trust me, our adventures will continue.) I truly wish I could write about each and every local place we enjoyed. And honestly, I feel terrible only mentioning a few. But here it goes:

In 2011, we made our first trip to Glass City Café in Uptown for breakfast and have visited there many times since. It doesn’t get any better than a hometown diner with great music every Saturday. They also host a lively and entertaining Bluegrass Breakfast the fourth Saturday of every month. The Original Pancake House, Rick’s City Diner, Chandler Café, Scrambler Marie’s and Briarfield Café (finally open again!) are always winners for breakfast and lunch with my family, too! The Pizza Posse would agree that we drooled over our pizza pies at Inky’s Italian Food, Pizza Papalis, Charlie’s Pizza, Homeslice, and The Original Gino’s Pizza. Rounding things out, some of our favorite dinner spots are still Cocina de Carlos in Waterville, Social Gastropub, Chowder’s N Moor, Sidon Grille, Reverend’s Bar & Grill, Schmuckers (oh those pies!), Ye Old Durty Bird, Inside the

Five, and New Empire. Our town has so many great local eateries, and these are just a few of our favorites. Lastly, when we want to take it up a notch or two, we enjoy a chance to dine at Mancy’s Steakhouse, Real Seafood, Nagoya Japanese Steakhouse, and Mancy’s Ideal. One final thought….. One thing I’ve discovered over the years is the importance of making family mealtime a priority, whatever that looks like for our family on any given day. It doesn’t matter if I brought home burgers and fries or spent all day preparing in the kitchen. The main idea is that my family sits down and shares the meal together. That little thing, even though it’s a brief period of time together, can make a HUGE difference. If you haven’t made it a priority for a while, try it. I think you’ll like it.

toledoparent.com

2018

Leading the way with pediatric, prenatal & family chiropractic care 26580 N Dixie Hwy, Ste 101| Perrysburg, OH

(419) 872-2255 • GetInnateHealth.com

www.toledoparent.com • SEPT/OCT 2020 •

CALENDAR

SEPT WEDNESDAY 9.2

Food Dehydration with Becky White Schooner - Got a bunch of fruits from your summer garden? Learn how to preserve them for winter in this online workshop from the Wood County Library! Register by emailing woodref@wcdpl.org. Free

FRIDAY 9.4

First Friday Art Walk - Explore the art, music, restaurants, boutiques and more of downtown Sylvania at this monthly event. 5-8pm. Downtown Sylvania. 419-360-1212. downtownsylvania.org Free

SATURDAY 9.5

Olander 24-Hour Ultra & Team Relay - Challenge yourself or your team of friends with this day-long event of walking or running along Olander Park’s lakeside path. $150 per individual. Olander Park System, Sylvania. 419-356-4881. runtoledo.com

WEDNESDAY 9.9

Learning Series: Engaging Children in Conversations about Race - This online course from Matching Peace will discuss the book I’m Not Dying with You Tonight. $80. 4-6pm, held weekly 9.9 through 9.30. Register at matchingpeace. org/events.

THURSDAY 9.10

Classics in the Morning - It’ll be thrills and excitement as this edition of the Google Meet-hosted book club discusses Jack London’s immortal The Call of the Wild. 11am-noon. Register by emailing woodref@wcdpl.org.

FRIDAY 9.11

Movies at Miakonda - The classic Pixar film Up will be shown as the latest in Camp Miakonda’s series of summer movie screenings. 8:30pm. 5600 W. Sylvania Ave., 419-241-7293. erieshorescouncil.org

NEW FOR 2020 Family game area! Tiny Tots Straw Climb!

Hammock Camping and Sunset Kayak Experience - Kayak at the beautifully restored Howard Marsh Metropark, then enjoy an evening under the stars, guided by outdoor enthusiast Alissa Caple. $250 per couple. 5pm10am. 611 S Howard Rd., Curtice. 419-280-9235. metroparkstoledo.com

VISIT OUR U-PICK PUMPKIN PATCH!!

Party for the Planet - Drop off your recyclables and enjoy a fun day at the Zoo where the kids can learn how to preserve Mother Nature with “green” presentations. Free with Zoo admission. 10am-4pm. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way, 419-385-5721. toledozoo.org

SUNDAY 9.20

Winter Sister Celebration - Anna and Elsa will be in attendance at this party hosted by Pineapples and Parties. Story time and photo ops will be available! $20. 3-5pm. Schaller Banquet Hall, 8115 Monclova Rd., Montclova. 419861-1336. monclovacc.com CONT’D ON P 26

You can only bloom once you have been watered PUTTING YOUR WELLNESS ABOVE EVERYTHING ELSE Massage therapy starting at $45

See FB for up to date weather & pricing info! Visit our website for more info

Yoga for all ages & walks of life $7 per class

SEE & FEED ANIMALS ON A REAL FARM! Milk a REAL, LIVE Cow • Feed Goats, Fallow Deer, Mini Cows & “Lulu”, our HUGE Pig! Meet Peacocks, Chickens & Guineas, Baby Goats • Hold bunnies, ducks & chicks and kiss a Llama!

(419) 720-8604

Hand led Pony Rides & Barrel Train Rides EVERYDAY

3525 N. Bolander Rd. Genoa OH • CountryLaneTreeFarm.com • 419.461.1298 24

Online PuzzlePalooza - Grab some friends and work to complete a puzzle— you choose what puzzle and how many pieces— against other teams from the area. 9am10pm. Way Public Library, 101 E Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. 419-8743135. waylibrary.info Free

SATURDAY 9.19

Fleitz Pumpkin Farm Opening Day - Get a head start on celebrating Halloween season by visiting the Fleitz Farm and picking out the best pumpkin for your porch. 10am. 7133 Seaman Rd., Oregon. 419-836-7613. fleitzpumpkinfarm.com Free

OPEN DAILY STARTING SEPT 26TH - OCT 31ST • 11AM - 7PM

Engage Toledo Drop Off Refuse and Recycling Event Items such as electronic waste, tires, clothing, toys, bulky items and more are being accepted for collection. 9am-1pm. Good Shepherd Church, 3934 West Laskey Rd., 419-9362020. toledo.oh.gov. Also taking place on 9.19 at the Toledo Zoo, 10am-4pm, and 9.26 at Friendship Park, 9am-1pm. Free

Northwest Ohio Great Pierogi & Polish Favorites Drive Up - Order a curbside pickup of frozen pierogi and more favorite Polish dishes, made by some of the best Polish restaurants in the area. Deadline for orders is 9.8. 10am-8pm. Club 16, 316 S. King Rd., Holland. 419-865-9806. doyoulovepolishfood.com

TUESDAY 9.8

IS NW OHIO’S #1 ANIMAL & AGRITAINMENT FARM!

Day of Honor - In recognition of their heroism during the pandemic, the Toledo Zoo is offering free admission to hospital workers, in addition to police, firefighters, EMTs and military. 10am-4pm. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way, 419-385-5721. toledozoo.org

SUNDAY 9.13

Show Us Your Ride - Car, Truck, Jeep & Bike Show - No matter what your family is riding in, bring it out to this celebration of transportation! 10am-4pm. Toledo Harley-Davidson, 7960 W. Central Ave., 419-8437892. toledohd.com/yourride Free

ACRES OF PUMPKINS TO CHOOSE FROM!

SATURDAY 9.12

CHILDREN’S YOGA CLASSES & YOGI CLUB

Accepting approved insurance starting in Aug. 2300 Navarre Ave. Oregon OH • Visit OpenArmsWelllnessStudio.com

• SEPT/OCT 2020 • www.toledoparent.com

www.toledoparent.com • SEPT/OCT 2020 •

CONT’D FROM P 24

FIND MORE AWESOME HALLOWEEN TREATS FALL EVENTS ONLINE! toledoparent.com

OCT WEDNESDAY 10.7

German-American Day - Individuals who have had their DNA tested are welcome to this event to share the story of their ancestry. 7pm. Wood County Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green. 419-352-0967. woodcountyhistory.org Free

FRIDAY 10.23 through SUNDAY 10.25

FRIDAY 10.9

Sanger Friends of the Library Book Sale - Find some great deals and fill up those empty bookshelves with the latest edition of the popular sale! Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. 419-259-5370. toledolibrary.org

Fort Meigs After Dark Lantern Tour - Enjoy a nighttime tour of the famous battlefield, led by costumed guides. $12 for adults, $7 for kids and students. Fort Meigs, 29100 W River Rd., Perrysburg. 419-874-4121. fortmeigs.org

SUNDAY 10.25

TSO Halloween Spooktacular Bring the kids out in full costume to a Halloween party with the Toledo Symphony! Can also be viewed via streaming. $10-$39. 3-5pm. Peristyle Concert Hall, Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St., 419-255-8000. toledosymphony.com

SATURDAY 10.17 and SUNDAY 10.18

Sylvania Spring Expo & Market Live music, a slew of fall-flavored marketplace vendors, trick-or-treating on Main Street, a pumpkin patch and more. 3pm10pm. Downtown Sylvania. 419-8822135. sylvaniachamber.org Free

Your Local Bison Meat Producer

Family Owned & Locally Grown

Reserve a free range Holiday Turkey Today! CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT FIND US ON FACEBOOK

419-360-3395

11616 County Road 4 - Swanton

Welcome to the 2020-2021 School Year! VIRTUAL LEARNING SUPPORT FOR SCHOOL-AGERS

S.T.E.A.M. ACTIVITIES NATURALLY A PART OF OUR DAY! IT’S WHO WE ARE!

FIND US!

28+ YEARS OF EXCELLENCE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION & CARE

Serving children ages 6 weeks to School Age within a play-oriented, project-based Center focused on engaging learners at the youngest of ages!

Extensive outdoor learning & exploration! Have you seen our community garden?

3421 TALMADGE RD. TOLEDO, OHIO (419) 537-1122

sylvania-children.com • inspire@sylvania-children.com 26

• SEPT/OCT 2020 • www.toledoparent.com

EVENTS MINDFUL YOGA – All levels welcome. Thurs. Oct 1st, 4:30 – 5:30. 1415 Miller Ave. (Calvary Church) 1st class is FREE! $10.00 each session

FOR RENT BEAUTIFULLY FULLY FURNISHED APARTMENTS. No Lease No Credit Check Required! Pet Friendly w/ FREE utilities & Free cable. Earn FREE rent! Call now! 567-226-3727

HELP WANTED

WEDNESDAYS DAILY

What’s in a Name exhibit at Toledo Zoo Aquarium - See the nameboards of ships that traveled on the Great Lakes and learn the stories behind the name. Free with Zoo admission. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-4040. toledozoo.org

MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS Yark Food Trucks - Head to Yark Automotive Group on Mondays and Thursdays, from 11:30am1:30pm, to taste some of the best grub area food trucks have to offer. For the full list, visit facebook. com/YarkAutomotiveGroup. Yark Automotive Group, 6019 W. Central Ave., 419-841-7771. yarkauto.com

TUESDAYS Sylvania Farmers Market This year’s market has relocated to Sylvania First UMC at 7000 Erie St. to provide more space for social distancing while enforcing a one- way route for shoppers to visit vendors while maintaining safety. 3-7pm. 7000 Erie St., downtown Sylvania. facebook.com/sylvaniafarmersmarket

Bowling Green Farmers Market Shop local produce, homemade jams and jellies, honey, fresh-roasted coffee, and more, during the weekly market. 4-7pm. 201 S. Main St., Bowling Green. 419-352-5059. facebook. com/BGFarmersMarket Music at the Fountain - Enjoy local musicians performing fountainside at Levis Commons. Virtual tip jars will be available for the musicians. 11:30am-1:30pm. The Town Center at Levis Commons, 3201 Levis Commons Blvd. shopleviscommons.com. Free Story Time on the Steps - The Monroe Street Terrace is the site of a weekly event where creativity meets storytelling. 10:30-11am. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St., 419-255-8000. toledomuseum.org Free Stroll the Street: Food Truck Fiesta - Every week 12 of NW Ohio’s best food truck vendors park along downtown Rossford for a gathering of great eats. Social distancing is encouraged. 4:30-7:30pm. Downtown Rossford. 855-765-5451. Free

Toledo Farmers Market: Westgate - Fresh produce from area farmers along with great coffee from Flying Rhino, Olde Tyme Kettle Korn and Gertie’s delicious barbeque sauce. Keep the weather in mind, as this is an uncovered, outdoor market. 3-7pm. 3301 Secor Rd., across from Costco. 419-531-2451. toledofarmersmarket. com

THURSDAYS Perrysburg Farmers Market - The weekly market offers a bounty of fruits, veggies, flowers and more. 4-7pm. Louisiana Ave., downtown Perrysburg. perrysburg-farmers-market.com

SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS Toledo Farmers Market - The year-round tradition of the Market lives on with fresh produce from area farms, food and drink and homemade crafts. 8am-2pm, Saturdays. 9am-1pm, Sundays. 525 Market St., 419-2556765. toledofarmersmarket.com

SUNDAYS

Woof Walk at Levis Commons Bring your furry friend for a weekly stroll around the Town Center and socialize with other dogs and their humans. 4-5pm. 3201 Levis Commons Blvd. 419-931-8888. shopleviscommons.com Free

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• SEPT/OCT 2020 • www.toledoparent.com