Mealtime is often the messiest part of the day for babies and toddlers. To make feeding time a little easier and less stressful, we’ve put together a kit of must-have accessories which includes KeaBabies Silicone Food Trays, Glass Prep Jars, Silicone Food Trays and Silicone Bibs. To help with clean-up, we’ve also added Handzies Soap + Water Wipes.
to the winner of our January/February giveaway,
Birthdays have always been a big deal in my family. No matter how old you are, everyone deserves to feel special on their birthday – even if the celebration isn’t extravagant every year. Starting this year, I have the exciting opportunity to make my daughter's birthday special. While this year’s celebration might not be one she will remember when she is older (she will be one this year), there is so much to celebrate. I am not wishing time away, but we are already in the process of planning her June birthday party. We are going to have a story book theme, highlighting some of the books we have enjoyed reading to her in her first year of life.
by Kimmie Rose
If you have older kids, check out our birthday guide, featuring some unique party ideas to make this year truly memorable for your children. We also highlight local options for child care, preschools and summer
camps. With so many choices available, we aim to make your decisionmaking process a little easier. For those with little ones just learning to eat, enter to win our Baby Feeding Essentials Giveaway. To read more online exclusive content and to keep up with daily postings and updates, visit toledoparent.com.
Best wishes,
Mary Genson Assignment Editor Toledo Area Parent
February 19 - March 20
Happy birthday to your little Pisces! Piscean Energy, perfect for diving into imagination, leads this month. Celebrate with creative activities like painting, music and karaoke. This birthday is about tapping into divine intelligence and allowing your children to ground themselves. Consider a party at home or a sleepover with friends. Host the party at a museum or learning center where creativity and learning come alive. Decorate their birthday cake with different shapes so the kids can have fun identifying them.
What was your most memorable birthday party?
Publisher/Editor in Chief
Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com)
PLAYING PIN THE TAIL ON THE DONKEY AND BOBBING FOR APPLES WITH MY COUSINS AT MY 5TH BIRTHDAY.
Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer
Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) A SURPRISE COSTUME PARTY ON MY 18TH BIRTHDAY.
Editorial Assignment Editor: Mary Genson (toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) WE TURNED MY HOUSE INTO A MOVIE THEATER FOR THE NIGHT!
Contributing Writers:
Contributing Writers: Dennis Bova, Mary Rose Kulczak, Julie Pompa, Laurie Bertke, Nathan Jacobs, Kimmie Rose
Advertising
Account Executives: Bonnie Hunter (bhunter@ adamsstreetpublishing.com) ALL OF THEM. Jenny Leach (jleach@adamsstreetpublishing.com) CHRISTMAS BIRTHDAYS ARE THE BEST.
Art/Production
Production Manager: Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) I'M 50 NOW. IT'S ALL A BLUR.
Senior Designer: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) WALT DISNEY WORLD.
Digital Media: Baile Rinaldi (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com)
NOTHING TOO MEMORABLE. MY BIRTHDAY HAS ALWAYS BEEN BLENDED WITH THE CHRISTMAS SEASON. Digital Marketing and Social Media: Margot Jacobs (margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com) THERE WAS A PONY AT MY 5TH BIRTHDAY PARTY.
Administration
Accounting: Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledocitypaper.com) I HAD A BEACH PARTY WHEN I WAS 14.
Distribution: Karena Adams (distribution@toledocitypaper.com) MY SURPRISE 50TH PARTY!
March 21 - April 19
Happy birthday to your little Aries! They will shine as the center of attention as they celebrate with a party that allows them to lead and play fairly with others. Consider a venue like the Toledo Zoo, where they can explore and enjoy interactive exhibits. Teach the joy of sharing through a pull-apart cupcake cake. In 2025, expect your Aries child to be energetic, adventurous and eager to take on new challenges. Enjoy this special day with your spirited little one!
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 © 2025 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without written permission of the publisher.
We asked our readers to show us their favorite family photos of winter fun. If you have photos you’d like to share for our next issue, send them, along with a caption, to toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com.
@mckiddycakesltd: This Sylvania mom owns a licensed home bakery. Her Instagram page features delicious and artful creations.
The
The Northwest Ohio Teen Book Festival returns for its fourth year on March 15 at Rossford Junior/High School from 9am-3:30pm. Doors open at 8:30am with a scavenger hunt for book prizes.
This year’s event features writing workshops, a community book club, a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Escape Room and more. Keynote speakers include Cinda Williams Chima and Kasie West. New and returning authors will be at the event. Books will be available for purchase, and authors will sign books starting at 2:30pm.
Natalie Dech was named Teacher of the Year at Imagine Madison Avenue School of Arts. Dech earned this honor after being nominated by peers and is admired for her commitment to understanding and meeting individual student needs, her efforts to engage families and her ability to keep students actively involved in learning.
Principal Lindsey Day said, “Ms. Dech has served at Imagine Madison for 5 years! She is truly an asset to the Madison Avenue School of Arts family! Ms. Dech always connects with her students using innovative teaching methods.”
Each month, Perrysburg Schools holds monthly events to engage with the community. During these Community Dialogue Sessions, the public is invited to ask questions and to partake in discussions about supporting the district at Way Public Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave. At every monthly gathering, Board of Education Members will be present.
The next event, on March 12 from 11am-12pm, topic will be “State Testing in Perrysburg Schools.” On April 23, “Open for Drop-ins” will take place with Board of Education Members and the Superintendent from 6-7pm, will be held on May 22 and June 24.
On March 15, “Young Artist Competition Winners and Young People's Side by Side” will take place as part of Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts Young People's Performance series. Three talented winners of the Toledo Symphony League’s annual Young Artists’ competition will showcase their skills as soloists with the Toledo Symphony Orchestra. Also, emerging student musicians from the region will perform alongside TSO members in a collaborative performance at the Peristyle. The concert will take place at 2pm at Toledo Museum of Art Peristyle, 2445 Monroe St, Toledo. Winners Elsa Klaas, eleventh grader at Ottawa Hills High School will be performing Haydn's Piano Concerto in D Mvt. 1 on piano; Isaac Weese, 17, eleventh grader at Findlay High School will be performing Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto Mvt. 3 on Violin; LyAnn Samkari ninth grader at Southview High School will be performing Monti's Czardas on violin.
Directions Credit Union is accepting applications for its scholarship program for high school and college students. Each year, twelve $1,000 college scholarships and three $1,000 private high school scholarships are awarded to students in the community. The high school scholarships are one-time $1,000 awards, to be applied to the following year’s tuition, for students in grades 8-11 at private schools. The college scholarships are also one-time $1,000 awards for high school seniors or current full-time students attending accredited colleges, community colleges or vocational schools, paid jointly to the student and the school they attend to be applied to school tuition. Applications are open until March 15, 2025, and can be found online at directionscu.org. Winners will be announced in May. To be eligible, the student or a family member must be a member of Directions Credit Union.
This year the Ray Kest Scholarship Corp., with the Old Newsboys, will award $100,000 in scholarships — twenty $5,000.00 scholarships — to local high school seniors for tuition at two or four year colleges/universities, building trades or apprentice programs, barber or beauty college or auto mechanic programs. Applications, available from area high school counselors, must be submitted by March 14. A committee will review the applications and select 30 students for personal interviews; 20 students will be selected to receive scholarships. For questions or to make a tax deductible donation to the Ray Kest Scholarship Corp, email Ron Shnider, Chairman atrshnider@yahoo.com.
For full story on the organization’s 60 years of scholarship awards use the QR CODE.
• March/April 2025 • www.toledoparent.com
New inclusive playspace prepares for soft opening DOT (Defying Odds Therapy) Playspace, featuring climbing structures, swings, a café and more and founded by pediatric occupational therapist Erica Zimmerman, will open this spring. Select offerings are available for their soft opening phase. The inclusive indoor space caters to children of all abilities, offering a sensory-friendly environment for both play and therapeutic activities. There will also be a dedicated area for infants under 24 months. Families can enjoy unlimited play for $15 per child, with reduced rates for additional siblings and free entry for caregivers and babies under 12 months. Membership options are available. 6544 W. Central Ave. Ste A, Toledo. 419-517-1332. dotplayspace.com.
The Sanger Branch Children’s Library has been renamed as the Drs. Jaylata and Madhusudan Patel Children’s Library. Dr. Jaylata Patel, a retired local psychiatrist with strong appreciation for the library, is a lifelong reader and is active in the Sanger Library book club. In January, there was an unveiling ceremony for the newly named children’s library. 3030 W. Central Ave., Toledo.
New pickleball facility opens
By Mary Rose Kulczak
Recent surveys indicate that nearly half of the parents of teens and tweens use location-tracking apps to monitor their child’s whereabouts and behaviors. In some cases, the child is unaware of the monitoring. Some parents monitor their children through devices such as an Apple watch, while others use apps connected to cell phones or tags.
While many consider this helicopter parenting to the extreme, others can see GPS tracking as a useful tool for family safety. For instance, families of children with special needs can feel an extra sense of security concerning their child who may be prone to wander.
“GPS tracking devices are a hot topic for parents of differently-abled teens and tweens,” explains Misty Gray Kluck, a special needs advocate and mother. “While they (tracking devices) can be incredibly helpful, they’re not without their challenges.”
AngelSense is a service designed for families with special needs that provides either watches or tags that can be worn by the child. The device sends alerts and updates to the parent’s cell phone.
“We initially used AngelSense for its real-time tracking, twoway communication and alerts for wandering. For parents of children with developmental disabilities or wandering tendencies, this can be a game-changer. The ability to know your child’s exact location is a safety net that many parents in our community rely on, especially in public or unfamiliar places,” Kluck said.
Life360 offers a GPS tracking service that includes location safety, monitoring a student driver, providing roadside assistance and more. Each family member is linked up through the system. The company also offers Tile Bluetooth tracker devices to help monitor belongings.
Bouncie
Bouncie is a monitoring service that connects to the car and monitors the way it is driven. The device will report on speed, driving habits such as fast breaking, and weather conditions. Parents will be advised with alerts on accidents and road conditions, while also receiving information on vehicle maintenance.
Toledo Pickle, LLC, a premier pickleball and entertainment facility and eatery in Toledo, is now open, offering top-notch amenities for pickleball fans and a variety of entertainment options for all ages. In January, Toledo Pickle held a grand opening that supported TutorSmart Toledo. 1030 Water St., 419-862-7455 toledopickle.com.
“Unfortunately, our experience wasn’t seamless. One major issue we faced was the lack of compatibility with school policies. Devices like AngelSense, which have a two-way communication feature, can be seen as a violation of privacy rules, particularly those surrounding cameras in the classrooms Another hurdle was the device’s usability and comfort. Wearing the tracker consistently was a challenge for my daughter, Tessa. Some devices were too bulky or intrusive for everyday use. Costs can also be prohibitive.”
Many families have a hard time juggling complicated schedules. Keeping track of the school calendar, sporting events and after school activities can be tricky. When teens start driving, it can be hard to keep up.
Parents should have a conversation with their teens and tweens about tracking, safety and issues of trust and responsibility. Tracking systems and devices may offer a temporary fix, but open communication is vital.
“For many families, GPS devices provide peace of mind, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution,” Kluck said. “The key is finding a device that fits your child’s unique needs while navigating school and community policies. There’s a fine balance between ensuring safety and respecting a growing teen’s need for independence, and that balance evolves over time.”
(PRESCHOOL & PRE-KINDERGARTEN)
4023 Beverly Dr., Toledo
Finding the right care and education for your child is key to their early development. In this guide, we’ve highlighted top childcare and preschool options in the Toledo area, helping you choose the best fit for your family
What is your school’s goal/mission? Toledo Christian Schools is celebrating 50 years as a member of the Toledo community. From our humble beginnings in downtown Toledo to today, we have been committed to providing our students with the best in Christian education while creating a life-long community for our families, alumni, and friends of TC. We believe strongly in partnering with Christian families to provide a college-preparatory Bible-centered educational program to educate, disciple and prepare students to follow Christ and impact culture.
Is your curriculum play-based, academic-based or something different? Our curriculum uses a comprehensive approach that balances direct instruction, play-based activities and student-directed choice:
Teacher-directed: Teachers guide children through a structured curriculum.
Formal instruction: Teachers introduce children to early literacy, fine motor training and writing, number sense and math concepts and guided nature exploration.
Play time: Children have many opportunities throughout the day for intentional play experiences that help develop creativity, critical thinking and social awareness.
Hands-on experiences: Children “learn by doing” with carefully chosen materials and activities.
Early learning standards: Our program adheres to early learning standards that focus on cognitive, language and literacy development.
Does the center offer half days and/or full days? Is lunch provided on full days? We offer both! Children can come for 5 full days, 5 half days or 3 half + 2 full days. All of our schedules are 5-day. Lunch is part of the daily schedule for both half and full-days. Children can bring a packed lunch or purchase a school lunch from our on-site kitchen.
What sets your center apart from others?
A few things that set us apart are Biblical integration and the incorporation of a Christian worldview from the earliest years, our focus on training good habits and virtue formation, and our beautiful indoor gross-motor playspace.
If you could describe your school in 5 words or less, what would they be? Play, learn and grow together.
Various locations
Educareacademy.com
Is your curriculum play-based, academic-based or something different? We use Creative Curriculum, which is play-based.
What age groups do you serve? We serve infants through school age.
What training/certifications and experience do the teachers hold?
All Lead Teachers have at least a CDA credential or an associate’s degree and hold certifications in FA/CPR, child abuse prevention, communicable disease, as well as professional development hours, completed yearly.
What kind of support does your school offer for children with disabilities? Educare Academy believes every child should thrive. We recognize that every child is different, and we make equity a priority by welcoming children of all backgrounds, cultures, experiences, identities and abilities. Our classrooms are filled with discovery, where every child is provided similar opportunities, where differences are embraced, and where all children can feel they belong and are included.
What is your school’s goal/mission? At Educare Academy, our philosophy is to meet each individual child’s needs while fostering their growth. We use the wholechild approach to teaching which supports and nurtures all areas of children’s development and learning - from social-emotional and cognitive skills to literacy, math and science understanding. Our goal is to develop healthy and well-rounded children who are equipped with the skills they need for life.
Various Locations tps.org
What is your school’s philosophy on child care and/or education?
TPS Early Childhood Program Mission
The TPS Early Childhood Program recognizes the importance of early childhood experiences on school success and offers a wide spectrum of services and program options for children and their families. Our work with young children focuses on supporting their self-confidence, social competence, physical health, and academic preparation. We believe that a child’s family, the strongest influence on the child’s development, must be direct participants in the program.
TPS Early Childhood Program Philosophy
The preschool program is based on the understanding that children learn through experimenting, exploring, and interacting with their environment. We provide children with a rich variety of materials to encourage them to touch, smell, taste, hear, and see and thereby, learn.
TPS Early Childhood Program Goals
The written program goals provide a basis for daily operations, which support the needs, interests, and abilities of each child through quiet and active play while:
Developing positive parentchild-staff relationships.
Facilitating the growth and development of your child’s emotional, social, intellectual, and physical development.
Assisting you in the education and development of your child.
Stimulating children to become problem solvers.
Providing high quality, individualized experiences for all students that are aligned with Ohio’s Early Learning and Development Standards.
Effectively using evidencebased, culturally sensitive and developmentally appropriate curriculum and assessments to plan learning experiences and monitor student progress.
Practicing thoughtful collection and use of valid, reliable, and meaningful data to inform programming decisions at both the classroom and program levels.
Building strong, collaborative relationships with students’ families and community partners.
What accreditation(s) does your school hold? All TPS ECE programs meet the 5 Star Step-Up to Quality requirements set forth from Ohio Department of Children and Youth. .
Why should i enroll my child?
Assisting children in developing positive social relationships with a diverse group of children.
Continuing to develop program systems that will help us achieve positive outcomes for our students, their families, and program staff.
Supporting teachers and other program staff in their roles as service providers and collaborative team members.
Our dedicated staff is focused on ensuring your child is successful when he or she enters kindergarten - that starts with enrolling in a proven early childhood education program. Our highly qualified staff is student-centered in their approach to education. All teachers have earned at least a four-year degree and our classroom assistants have an associate degree in early childhood education.
What age groups do you serve?
Who should attend? Children 3-5 years old who reside in the Toledo Public School District are eligible to attend the TPS Early Childhood Program.
Where are the programs located?
The TPS Early Childhood Program has locations throughout the district. Students are placed at or near their
Does the center offer half days and/ or full days? Is lunch provided on full days? Infants are full-time only. Toddlers-PreK are full-time and parttime, and ½ days are offered. Morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack are provided daily for full-time and parttime children.
Does the center have early drop off and/or late pick up available for working parents? Our operational hours are intended to provide flexibility for working parents, with standard hours being 6:45am-6pm, MondayFriday
What age groups do you serve? 6 weeks to 5 years of age
After-school program: kindergarten11 years of age
What accreditation(s) does your school hold? Step Up to Quality five star-rated
What is your school’s goal/mission? Children’s Discovery Center, a premier early care and education provider, respects the child, encourages learning through exploration and supports the family within a creative, nurturing and Christian environment.
What sets your center apart from others? At Children’s Discovery Center, our distinctiveness lies in our unwavering dedication to the renowned Reggio Emilia educational philosophy. Our team comprises caring and skilled professionals, including certified teachers, who create enriching classroom environments for children. We prioritize ongoing staff training and foster a collaborative learning environment led by both teachers and children. Internationally recognized for our innovative approach and classroom designs, our leadership travels widely to coach other early childhood education centers in successfully implementing similar methods within their communities.
While it is still chilly outside, it is time to start thinking about where you want to send your child to summer camp this year. The Toledo area has many options to keep children with varying interests entertained throughout the warmer months. Here, you will find information on some of the summer camps offered locally.
Was Your Child Born to Create and Perform? Then enrich your child’s life through the arts this summer with the award-winning Toledo School for the Arts. At TSA’s Summer Arts Camp, students ages 10–14 will enjoy two weeks of art experiences that will help them discover their inner artist. Class choices include visual arts, glass arts, puppet creation, music recording, ukulele, creative writing, dance, theatre improv, sewing basics and makeup effects. TSA’s Summer Arts Camp starts on Monday, June 2 and ends Friday, June 13. Campers attend from 9am to 3:30pm Monday through Friday. For a full list and descriptions of classes visit ts4arts.org. Families are invited to attend a TSA style concert and exhibit on the last day of camp. Early registration is $370 by April 25th for a 20% savings! The average staff to camper ratio is 1:12.
333 14th Street, Toledo 419-246-8732 ts4arts.org
Our summer programs serve campers ages 7 through 17. Campers gain self-esteem and confidence by challenging themselves with a wide variety of skill set tracks and activities, including: sailing, horseback riding, kayaking, canoeing, high ropes course, climbing tower, arts and crafts, disc golf, target or team sports and much more. Campers also enjoy nature hikes, campfires, and making new friends, all while learning to succeed in a community environment and of course, having fun! For ages 7-17. Register at ymcastorercamps.org or call 517-536-8607.
6941 Stony Lake Rd. Jackson, MI 517-536-8607
ymcastorercamps.org
Inspire your child’s creativity and watch their confidence soar with our all-new Camp Invention® program, Discover! When this nationally acclaimed program comes to Toledo this summer, campers in grades K-6 will team up with friends for hands-on, open-ended STEM fun. They’ll create their own claw machine, uncover the science behind optical illusions, rev up for the ultimate road trip and embark on an eco-expedition to investigate penguins in Antarctica! Each experience is designed to spark curiosity, build persistence and create an unforgettable summer. Visit invent.org/local to secure your spot! Use promo code MYCAMP25 to save $25. Payment plans available.
Various locations 800-968-4332. campinvention@invent.org invent.org/local
Toledo Ballet’s 2025 Summer Program offers a variety of dance opportunities for all ages and skill levels. Young dancers, ages 4-8, can join our fun and engaging themed dance camps, while intermediate and advanced students can take part in challenging dance intensives. This summer, we’re thrilled to welcome guest instructors Matthew Dibble (June 16-20), who offers expertise in ballet, contemporary, choreography, variations and pointe, and Aliane Baquerot-Wilson (June 23-27), who specializes in jazz, lyrical, contemporary, musical theater, strength and stretch. All classes, camps and intensives are open for registration to both Toledo Ballet and non-Toledo Ballet dancers. Whether you’re looking to improve your technique, explore new styles or immerse yourself in creative expression, Toledo Ballet’s Summer Program has something for everyone. Don’t miss this opportunity — learn more and register at artstoledo.com/tb-summer!
1838 Parkwood Ave., Unit 310, Toledo. 419-246-8000 artstoledo.com
The Toledo Museum of Art’s Family Center is every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 11am-5pm at the Green Building. It is always free, but since space is limited, registration is required in advance. At the center, young children and grown ups create together. Supplies are included for each workshop. To park, it is $10 nonmembers and free for members. In addition to the Family Center workshops, a range of other classes and workshops are offered at the Toledo Museum of Art for a range of ages, interests and skill levels.
2445 Monroe Street Toledo, OH 43620 (419) 255-8000 toledomuseum.org
12, 10AM-4PM
Meet parents of local preschool, elementary and high school students. Don’t miss this fun, annual event with thousands of shoppers at The Franklin Park Mall. The perfect event to showcase your camp, service or business.
This summer, let curiosity take the lead! At Imagination Station’s epic summer camps, kids will invent, experiment and explore through hands-on STEAM activities that spark creativity and critical thinking. Whether they’re building robots, making movies or time traveling to the future, every day is a new adventure filled with discovery, laughter and fun!
Designed for young innovators ages 6-13, our camps offer something for everyone—whether your child loves tinkering, storytelling, chemistry or even a little magic (without a wand). Plus, our NEW Sensory-friendly week provides all the fun of camp with extra support and a smaller group setting.
Camps run from 9am-4pm, with FREE extended hours. Each week includes daily snacks, awesome interactive projects and a special family celebration on the last day. Are you ready to make this summer unforgettable? Spots fill up fast- don’t miss out. Choose your camp and sign up today!
1 Discovery Way, Toledo, Ohio, 43604 419.244.2674 imaginationstationtoledo.org
By Mary Rose Kulczak
Toledo-area mompreneurs are crushing it, balancing the demands of motherhood with creative businesses that serve the community. We asked seven local mompreneurs to share advice with other parents who are thinking of launching their own ventures. Read their experiences and be inspired!
Milk and Muse
Crisp Olive
Narges Barefoot, Perrysburg mom of two, offers a curated collection of goods at trunk shows, local shops and her online website. “Your first roadblock is mindset, then overwhelm, then repeat. Focus on your first step, that’s all you need. And find someone who has gone down the path before you.”
Taylor Holloway, mom of four, hosts classes in candle making, painting, jewelry and more. “Get into it, friend! Utilize every resource and whenever possible, literally whenever, include those kids. Empower them to learn and grow and offer insight. Children are a gift and they’re so observant. I don’t suggest the free labor bit people love to say, but allow them to work to give them a sense of responsibility for what you are building for the household you share.”
M addox, mother of a three-year old, combines her love of storytelling with visual mediums to capture mother-child moments in time. She also offers doula services and hosts community gatherings that honor and celebrate the experiences of Black mothers.
“If you’re thinking about starting a business, I encourage you to first make sure that you have a community you can lean on. Being a business owner is not straightforward, and there’s no blueprint that works for everybody. You go along figuring things out through trial and error, so you need people who can pour into you when you’re ready to give up. You need people who believe in you even if they don’t fully understand your vision. You need people willing to catch your tears and help you to lift your head up. You need people in your corner who will let you dream.”
J ocelyn Blank, mom of three, operates Eco-Fill Shop in Bowling Green. She offers non-toxic, low-waste products that discourage the use of singleuse plastics. “Time moves fast. Do not miss out on the kids while growing the business. Business can be done little by little, but you only have small children for a short time with no doovers. Being a mom and business owner can be tough, but you can do it!”
Jocelyn Blank Eco-Fill Shop
ello, a Perrysburg mom of a three year old, offers balloonthemed party décor for a variety of celebrations. “My advice is whatever you do, it should be something you are passionate about, something you love. Seek training and advice from professionals. This will help you on your entrepreneurial journey. Passion is very important because (your time working) is time spent away from your family, so it should be something you love that benefits the family. Toledo has wonderful groups of women who are willing to help you start your venture. Believe in yourself and your abilities.”
T iana Lashae, mom of four, specializes in family photography, with a focus on capturing the precious moments with newborns and parents. “Finding balance between motherhood and entrepreneurship can be challenging. Scheduling time to do absolutely nothing is a MUST, especially if you’re planning to be the sole worker in your business. Curating the life you want as a mompreneur takes a different kind of science, including mental agility and flexibility. My neurodivergent brain has worked best having set work days and hours and sticking to that.”
L aurel Sanner, a mom of two, specializes in character entertainment, providing an immersive experience for birthday parties, community events and large-scale productions.
“The biggest piece of advice I can give to other mompreneurs is to just start. It’s easy to get caught up in waiting for the perfect time or feeling, like you need to have everything figured out first. I started my business with nothing but an idea, a costume and a passion for bringing joy to kids. If I had waited until I felt completely ready, I never would have taken that first step.”
When your kids' special day comes around, throw them a birthday bash that they will never forget. Whether they dream of an action-packed adventure or prefer to explore their creative side, there’s no shortage of unique and fun birthday party venues in the Toledo area to choose from. With so many amazing options, you’re sure to find the perfect place to bring their birthday vision to life.
Members and nonmembers can celebrate their birthday at the zoo by throwing a party that any animal lover is sure to enjoy. All parties are designed for up to 20 people and include live animal encounter(s) along with food and beverages for guests.
Find more information at toledozoo.org/birthdays.
419-385-5721.
Starting at: Members $575; Non-Members $600
Spin & Splat takes creativity to the next level — providing unique ways to create beautiful art with your party guests. They have several different options for parties, including Paint Wars, T-Shirt Splat Party, Spin & Splat Party, Neon Splat Party, Spin Party and Fluid Bear Party. Prices vary for each party and each package includes unique activities.
https://www.spinandsplat.com/parties. 734-807-2050.
Starting at: $299
For an action-packed birthday celebration, consider hosting your party at Get Air Trampoline Park. Choose from three different party packages, each tailored to meet your specific needs. Every package includes access to the jump/party area, jump socks for each participant, pizza, soda and more, ensuring a fun-filled experience for all the kids! getairsports.com/toledo/birthday-party.
419-216-9216
Starting at: $199.99
Let Imagination Station take the reigns on hosting an unforgettable party for your child. Children can choose their party theme and the Imagination Station will provide activities, a decorated party space and more. Parties are for up to 20 people — including the birthday kid, family members and guests. There is an option to order food and guests are expected to bring their own birthday cake or cupcakes.
imaginationstationtoledo.org/visit/birthday-parties. 419.244.2674 ext. 250.
Cost: Members: $325; Non-Members: $375
If your child loves to be active, suggest a party at Urban Air Adventure Park. They offer multiple bundles that you can choose from to customize your party. Some of the features in the most expensive bundle include access to Flip Zone Bumper Cars, Unlimited Go Karts, Climbing Walls, Sky Rider Indoor Zipline and much more. Listing of their offerings in each bundle is available online.
urbanair.com/ohio-toledo/kids-birthday-parties. 800-960-4778.
Starting at: $299
If your kids’ idea of fun is jumping around, then Sky Zone might be the perfect place to host their next birthday party. There are three levels of packages: Mega VIP, Epic and Basic. All packages have a 10 jumper minimum and a choice of a private party room or party table. Parties held on Monday-Thursday are 10% off. skyzone.com/toledo/parties. 567-298-4596.
Starting at: $280
Bring in Laurel’s Characters & Co. as entertainment for your child’s next birthday party. Pick your child’s favorite character and they will come to your house or venue to get the party started. Multiple packages are available.
laurelscharacterco.com. 567-455-1134. Starting at: $175
Does your child love LEGOs? Snapology offers birthday experiences for children who love to build. Choose from Snapology’s many themes, schedule your date and work with a party planner to finalize the rest of the details. snapology.com/kids-birthday-parties. 419-370-0371. Inquire online for pricing.
By Mary Rose Kulczak
Frustrated sports families don’t have to throw in the towel. They can now band together to form their own winning team of support. That is the concept promoted by Open Practice, a community where parents and their student athletes can connect and face the challenges of a sport-life balance.
Open Practice, a monthly subscription service that offers one on one coaching, a Facebook members-only site, quarterly classes, help from collegiate coaches and speakers and discounted event access, launched in November as a subscription service provided by Agility Counseling Group. Led by Jonelle Massey, founder and CEO, this hub for parents helps address the increasing pressure that student athletes face in season and off season. Massey is a psychotherapist and consultant who specializes in the challenges of mental health as it relates to athletes.
“Our children are experiencing way more pressure than we ever did,” Massey said. As a former college basketball athlete at Xavier University, she understands the demands of today’s players. Her husband, Jeff Massey, is the associate head men’s basketball coach at University of Toledo. Additionally, she has a personal stake in the game.
“I am a mom of two female athletes, and I want to change the culture of sports for them, their peers, our community and future generations,” she explains.
Massey has seen a shift in the world of sports that is having a negative
impact on mental health. “The culture of sports is changing. The positive social emotional lessons of winning, losing, being a good teammate, recovering from self-disappointment and self-agency are not being highlighted in youth and high school sports anymore,” Massey said. She points to increases in anxiety, depression and suicide among athletes, adding, “Unhealthy coping skills indicate a need for psychotherapy, education and a healthy community.”
This is where Open Practice steps in. “We provide a friendly, non-judgmental space where you can have open conversations with mental health professionals, trainers, nutrition experts and college coaches, as well as athletes and parents of former high school, college and professional athletes. Here, we value validation, empathy, education and accountability.”
Today’s athletes face some unique challenges, including criticism of performance on social media, constant comparison, increased pressure to earn college scholarships, increased pressure to train harder, lack of healthy mentorships and less focus on relationshipbuilding. “It is causing increased suicidal ideation, isolation and drug and alcohol use. Mental health is not mental weakness,” Massey said.
For more about Open Practice, visit agilitycounselinggroup.com.
By Nathan Jacobs
Over the past two years, artificial intelligence, or AI, has transformed our world. With no physical manifestation of AI, it may be difficult to identify, but we are in the middle of a technological revolution that presents a myriad of exciting opportunities for those with the right mindset. Unfortunately, there are also a number of malignant opportunities out there which raise questions about safety, especially when it comes to children. How do we protect them in this new age of AI? — an age that we may not fully understand ourselves, but one that our children must inevitably learn to thrive in.
A collaborative approach
Another emerging threat is the use of deepfakes and impersonation. Spending any time on social media reveals plenty of pictures and videos that at first seem real, but through careful scrutiny it is detectable that the media was AI-generated.
These dangers underscore the need for vigilance and education. Shaw emphasizes, “Just as we’ve seen with the internet, YouTube, and social media, irresponsible or unchecked usage of emerging technologies can have unintended consequences. To mitigate risks, parents and educators must create a safe space for exploration, fostering curiosity while emphasizing ethical and informed engagement with AI.”
LeSean Shaw, co-founder and vice president of EmpoweredAI, a Toledo based non-profit with a mission to provide training on the use of AI, emphasizes this approach. “We believe in promoting the responsible use of artificial intelligence and ensuring that children explore new AI tools in a safe and guided environment,” Shaw said. “The best way to achieve this is by discovering these tools alongside our children—helping them understand both the potential and the limitations of the technology they interact with.”
This collaborative approach is crucial, as children are increasingly exposed to AI in various forms, often without fully understanding the underlying mechanisms driving it. Identifying dangers
The rapid advancement of AI also brings potential dangers that parents must be aware of. Perhaps the most disturbing of these threats is the proliferation of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). In the wrong hands, AI can generate and distribute CSAM content. AI could be used to identify and target vulnerable children, making it easier for online predators to build the trust they need to manipulate them.
Creating this safe space for children requires several key strategies. Open communication about AI and its potential risks is essential. Parents should encourage children to ask questions, share experiences, and report any concerns they encounter. Also prioritize teaching children critical thinking skills so they can evaluate information, identify biases and recognize misleading content. Finally, establishing clear guidelines and boundaries for the use of AI as a tool will include time limits, monitored usage and parental controls. Additionally, make it a priority to stay informed about new AI developments and risks.
Shaw points out, “Children will inevitably be exposed to AI, just as adults are, and it is our responsibility to equip them with the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to navigate this digital landscape safely. The next generation is growing up in a world where AI is deeply integrated into daily life, from education to entertainment to career opportunities. To ensure their safety and success, we must remain diligent, inquisitive and proactive in both understanding and shaping the way AI influences their experiences.”
While the age of AI presents undeniable challenges, it also offers tremendous opportunities. By prioritizing digital literacy, promoting open communication and implementing effective safety measures, children can be empowered to navigate this new landscape safely and responsibly.
For more information about LeSean Shaw and his organization, visit EmpoweredAI.org.
By Dennis Bova
While competitive sports are a common interest for children of all abilities, opportunities to participate are often less accessible for those with disabilities. There are, however, several organizations in northwest Ohio that provide sports opportunities for those who are physically or mentally challenged.
One organization has made ice skating more accessible and enjoyable for individuals with disabilities. Gliding Stars Adaptive Ice Skating opens up the opportunity for everyone to enjoy the ice. The founder of the organization developed a line of adaptive ice skates, walkers and harnesses to allow anyone, with the help of volunteers, to be on the ice. Since it began in Buffalo in 2004, Gliding Stars has grown and come to other communities, including Findlay and Toledo.
Bill Himmel founded Gliding Stars Toledo in 2008 and is the co-coordinator and vice president of its board of directors. Before forming a local chapter, he took his special-needs daughter to the Findlay chapter to skate.
Himmel, who is in the metal recycling business, is comfortable on the ice and has coached high school hockey. He recalls that when he first took his daughter, Lily, to the ice rink when she was four years old, he carried her as he skated.
When he put her on the ice she took her first steps. “She skated before she walked,” he said. Soon after, she was outfitted with special skates, a helmet
and a walker. “I was told to sit in the stands and watch,” Himmel said. “I was leery, but I agreed. I saw her on the ice and I was in tears.” Volunteers assisted her. “It was moving,” he explained, his voice breaking.
The next year, to avoid making the weekly trips to Findlay, and after learning that four other families were making the drive from Toledo, Himmel founded the Toledo chapter, which skates at Sylvania Tam-O-Shanter. The program’s sessions run from 4-5pm on Sundays from late September to early October, break for the holidays, and resume Jan. 12 to March 16.
“Our program’s youngest star – we call them stars in our program – is 5 years old; the oldest is in the mid-30s,” he said. Himmel said there typically are 32 stars, helped by 32 volunteers.
Skating into a show
The date of March 16 is special as that is when the stars put on a show, from 2-3pm at Tam-O-Shanter. Tickets are $5 with raffles and camaraderie. “We’re starting to work on the choreography, with pinwheels, skating on one foot, spins, jumps, doing whatever skills they can do,” Himmel said. This year’s show’s theme is country-western. “Maybe we’ll have a line dance,” he said.
“This is not a therapy program,” Himmel said, “but I would say it’s therapeutic. It’s inclusive. A lot of our stars are special-needs kids who don’t get invited to birthday parties. This is something they’re part of. It revolves around our stars – making them shine, making their dream come true.”
It’s said that dogs are man’s best friend, but in the case of one Ability Center program, dogs are much more. Through the sport of dog agility, where participants direct dogs through obstacle courses within a time limit, individuals with disabilities develop social skills, physical capabilities and self-confidence.
Brittney Murphy, education coordinator for the Ability Center As-
sistance Dogs program, said, “Our goal is to create an inclusive environment. Everybody is welcome. Some have autism, vision impairments, ADHD and sensory processing issues.” The program currently has 23 students, with a mix of ages beginning at 8 or 9 and including late teens, those in their 20s and early 30s.
The dog agility program runs for one-hour sessions for eight weeks on Tuesday and Wednesday nights at the center’s offices on Monroe Street in Sylvania. Each participant is paired with a dog and a coach and introduced to an obstacle course, which includes tunnels, jumps, a teeter table and other agility equipment.
Murphy said each participant first walks the course with a coach to get a feel for the layout, learns the names of each of the 10 obstacles and plans how to have the dog run the course.
“The students then run the course with their dog, naming each obstacle and at the end giving the dog a treat. Then they run it a second time to work on areas they want to improve upon.” The student can invite a friend or family member to be the coach.
“Dogs are such great companions,” Murphy said, adding that all of the dogs are with the Ability Center and most are Labrador retrievers. Through them, the students “learn problem-solving skills and build confidence. They build social skills by praising and greeting other students and they learn that it’s OK to make a mistake. They learn patience and develop physical capabilities.”
For 2025, Murphy said, “We’re looking to grow. We always look at accommodations for our students.”
Batter up!
It is still winter, but spring’s coming – as is another adaptive sport: baseball, thanks to the Miracle League of Northwest Ohio. The nonprofit organization provides opportunities for people of all abilities to play baseball.
Through the Ability Center Assistance Dogs program, participants direct dogs through obstacle courses.
“We started playing games in 2007 on a gravel field,” said Jeff Barton, president of the League’s board of directors, “but we couldn’t accommodate kids in wheelchairs and with walkers.”
Then he enlisted the support of the community, and a better field opened in 2009 at 2200 Tracy Road in Northwood, near Owens Community College.
“It’s barrier-free, and like a track and field surface,” Barton said. Bases are flush with the ground to accommodate wheelchairs, walkers or other mobility devices.
The eight-week season, four weeks in the Fall and four in the Spring. Games are two innings, and everybody gets to hit. “The players’ names are announced as they come up to bat,” he said. “We provide a uniform for each player,” Barton explains, courtesy of the Toledo Mud Hens.
Barton said the local Miracle League – which is part of a national organization – started with two teams and about 20 players. Now, it has eight teams with more than 100 players, mostly children, but with some adults with disabilities as well.
Barton emphasized that the games are not competitive. “Our league is about inclusion. Everybody’s welcome. We’re out on the field for exercise and camaraderie.” He added, “The mission is to educate the community about people with special needs and that by including them, that benefits everybody.”
Volunteers contribute mightily, he said. “The volunteers tell us they love it – the one thing I tell them is why it’s important for them to make the connections,” he said. “I asked them how many grew up playing sports, and that their parents came to watch. So when you guys are here, the parents are not on the field assisting their child, they’re in the stands watching and cheering. We try to create an environment that’s inclusive and allows parents to come snap pictures, create memories and enjoy watching their child play baseball.”
For information about Gliding Stars, email glidingstarstoledo@gmail.com, phone 419-304-4324, or visit glidingstarstoledo.org.
For information about Agility Dogs, visit abilitycenter.org/agility-angels.
For information about Miracle League, visit mlnwo.org.
By Julie Pompa
Ohio law requires blood lead screening for “high-risk” children. In Toledo, a high-risk child is considered someone who:
Lives in or visits a house or facility built before 1978 with recent, ongoing or planned renovation or remodeling (including a daycare center, preschool or home of a babysitter or relative)
Lives in or visits a house that has peeling, chipping, dusting or chalking paint
Has a sibling or playmate who has or did have lead poisoning
Frequently comes in contact with an adult who has a hobby or works with lead (construction, welding, pottery, painting and casting ammunition, for example)
Or any child living in one of these high-risk Toledo / Lucas County zip codes: 43412, 43445, 43504, 43528, 43537, 43542, 43558, 43560, 43571, 43604, 43605, 43606, 43607, 43608, 43609, 43610, 43611, 43612, 43613, 43614, 43615, 43616, 43620, 43623.
residents.
Young children, instinctively and curiously, put things in their mouths, and while most are relatively harmless, some can be dangerous. With lead, there is no safe level in a young child’s bloodstream. Exposure to lead by young children can cause damage that may last a lifetime.
In January, The Ohio Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal, effectively upholding a 2024 ruling that allows Toledo and the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department to enforce a lead paint ordinance. This decision affirms previous court rulings, ensuring the ordinance— passed over four years ago— remains in effect.
Public and private organizations, along with area pediatricians are working to eradicate lead poisoning. Several one-stop services — Lead-Safe and the Toledo Lucas County Health Department (TLCHD) — help families seek out and address the threat of lead exposure in their daily lives.
Lead removal: a recent practice
Lead poisoning prevention has only been a part of our society since the 1970s. Lead screenings began in the 1970s, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that the CDC (Center for Disease Control) defined the blood lead reference value (BLRV) for children as a BLL (blood lead level) at or above 10 µg/dL (micrograms per deciliter). Those levels have since come down significantly, and what is considered “safe” to children, today, the BLRV is 3.5 µg/dL.
“I’m seeing significantly fewer cases (of tests above the threshold) today,” said Dr. Wendy Wexler, a pediatrician based in Oregon, Ohio. “I haven’t had to admit a kid (for lead poisoning) in years.”
Symptoms to last a lifetime
Lead exposure in children can cause damage to the brain and nervous system, delaying growth and develop-
ment, creating learning and behavior problems and hearing and speech problems, possibly causing lower IQs, decreased ability to pay attention and underperformance in school. There is strong evidence that exposure to lead as a child can cause lifelong damage.
The Ohio Department of Health explains that children exposed to lead can exhibit a variety of symptoms (many of which mirror symptoms of other ailments as well), including irritability, loss of appetite and weight loss, sluggishness and fatigue,abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, hearing loss and seizures.
Outdated buildings still prevalent in Toledo
In Ohio, a child’s threat of exposure to lead comes mainly from the housing stock. More than 73,000 housing units in Toledo and Lucas County were built before 1978 and are likely to contain some lead-based paint on interior and/or exterior surfaces, according to the Ohio Department of Health. Approximately 160,000 Ohio children from birth to 6 years old are screened for lead poisoning every year, and the department said that today less than 3 percent are found to have confirmed lead levels at 5 µg/ dL or greater.
Children can be screened through the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department’s (TLCHD) Lead Program, by calling 419-213-2013. Pediatricians will do the screening as well. “We screen every child we see at age 1 and 2,” Dr. Wexler said. “Kids aren’t as active before the
age of 1 and are less likely to be putting things into their mouths.” She said, children who live in older houses, or have parents working in factories, can have risks you might not consider. If your child’s blood test confirms a lead level of 3.5 µg/dL or higher, the TLCHD is notified, and an investigation is initiated. The organization will work with the family to lower the child’s lead levels as quickly as possible; if the level is 10 µg/dL or higher, TLCHD first contacts the homeowner or landlord, directing them to remediate existing lead problems.
Make your life lead-free
There are a variety of methods for eradicating lead at home.
Be careful of what kids are into – if they’re crawling, watch what they pick up or bring in. Wipe and remove everyone’s shoes when entering the home. Wash kids’ hands frequently.
Make your home lead-proof – if you’re planning renovations (especially in a home built before 1978), use contractors certified by the Environmental Protection Agency
If you are renting – your unit must have a Lead-Safe Certificate (which must be provided to you by the owner)
Test the paint and dust in your home – contact the TLCHD
Keep children away from any recalled toys and toy jewelry and discard the items
By Laurie Bertke
Lupitas Cantina
209 Louisiana Ave., Perrysburg. 419-963-4611. Lupitas-mexican.com.
Tuesday-Thursday: 3pm-10pm
Friday-Saturday: 3pm-11pm Sunday: 3pm-9pm
Monday: Closed
A cursory review of the menu at Lupitas Cantina demonstrates that this is not your typical Mexican culinary experience.
Chef José Carlos Méndez and his wife, Lupita Garcia, have owned and operated a number of restaurants in the Toledo area since they moved to Perrysburg in 2010. The couple’s longest running venture, Cocina de Carlos, specializes in authentic Mexican dishes at its two locations in Perrysburg and Waterville.
Born in Jalisco, Mexico, Méndez comes by his love of great food naturally ,as his father was also a restaurateur. His father and other family members remain involved in helping Méndez and Garcia perfect their recipes.
Fewer carbs and more greens
When Lupitas Cantina opened in historic downtown Perrysburg in fall 2022, the couple had something different in mind from the standard Tex-Mex fare found at Cocina de Carlos. Méndez said his health-conscious wife told him that Mexican restaurants lack balance, with too little greens, too many carbs and too much emphasis on animal protein.
At Lupitas, customers are invited to customize their meal to showcase their dietary needs. For those who prefer fewer carbs, rice and beans can be swapped out for alternatives such as salad, soup, Cuban plantains, Yuca fries or elote (Mexican corn on the cob). A wide variety of gluten free and vegan entrees are also available and clearly identified. “With the same menu we can create a different experience every time you come to the restaurant,” said Méndez.
They named their latest endeavor in Perrysburg after Méndez’s wife and adult daughter, who share the same name. “Lupitas is plural for two Lupitas,” explained Méndez.
Keeping it fresh
Lupitas is divided into a bar on one side and a dining room on the other. It boasts a beautifully lit brick patio on the side of the historic building on Louisiana Avenue. The space, occupied for many years by Casa Barron, allowed much of the decor to be repurposed from the prior occupant.
Méndez updates his menu frequently, and Lupitas features a rotating variety of seasonal specials. The winter menu plays with more proteins and soups for the cold seasons, while he anticipates a shift to a greater emphasis on fish in April for the Lenten season. Summer entrees take advantage of the fresh local produce that is then more readily available.
Méndez said they try to work with local suppliers when possible, such as a local butcher for steaks and a farm in Michigan that delivers fresh mushrooms weekly for use in their vegan dishes. The menu offers a number of fresh, healthy vegan options, and Mé-
ndez notes Lupitas uses a plant-based imitation shrimp and Beyond Beef rather than soy-based meat substitutes. Seasonal specials are featured under the heading of “Carlos Curiosities.” I chose the Mexican Flat Bread ($13) from that section based on the strong recommendation of our waitress. Served on a thick slab of flatbread, I would compare it to a Mexican pizza. It came topped with refried beans, melted cheese, cilantro and onions with a choice of protein, and can be grilled or fried. I went with a grilled version topped with steak, which was tender and nicely seasoned. It was more than I could eat for one meal and I had leftovers to take home.
The smash burger tacos ($14) were a hit with both of my adolescent boys. Made with fresh seasoned ground beef, the three tacos were nestled in grilled flour tortillas, topped with cheese, lettuce and pickles and served with a side. My husband went with the Trash Tacos ($17), corn tortillas heaped with a mix of steak, grilled chicken and chorizo. He described them as meat lover’s tacos.
Our 10-year-old daughter ordered the Americano taco(ground beef or chicken) from the kids menu ($7) with a side of guacamole, which was just the right portion.
When something from his “Curiosities” section gets a particularly positive response from customers, Méndez often adds it to the regular menu.
Recognizing there is a great deal of competition among Mexican restaurants in Perrysburg and Maumee, Carlos explains that they try to be “a little wild” with the food and drink menus,
The Short Course Online ordering? Yes
Carryout? Yes
Delivery? No
Outdoor Dining? Yes
Kids Menu? Yes
Changing Table? Yes
Booster Seat/High Chair? Yes
stocking more than 300 tequilas with more than a dozen rotating varieties of margaritas. Lupitas also features local beers on tap and liquors from Toledo Spirits.
Bottom line
Méndez promises a “magic” atmosphere where customers can spend a good time with family or friends. In all of his restaurants, Méndez said, excellent service is a top priority because employees know the most important asset is the happy customer.
The emphasis on service was notably reflected in our Lupitas experience, as our friendly server graciously offered to refill our basket of chips more than once and frequently checked on us to top off our drinks. The positive experience combined with the promise of finding new and exciting “curiosities” to sample guarantee future return visits to Lupitas.
SATURDAY 1
Little Chefs Family Edition: BrunchCook a comforting, delicious sweet, savory meal. Registration is required. $50. 11am-1pm. The 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 577 foundation.org
March Early Stages (ages 3-4) Drop In Class - Explore Spring with songs, crafts, stories, and puppets. 11am. Children’s Theatre Workshop, 2417 Collingwood Blvd. ctwtoledo. org. Free
SUNDAY 2
SUNDAY 16
Mom to Mom Sale
Join Toledo Mothers of Twins Club for the area’s biggest and best Mom to Mom Sale! $3 entry (cash), 12 and under FREE. 12:303pm. Sylvania Tam-O-Shanter, 7060 W Sylvania Ave.,Sylvania.
WEDNESDAY 19
Inclusion Resource Fair
FRIDAY 7
Free First Fridays & Make and Take Craft Day - Enjoy free admission to the Wood County Museum every first Friday, plus a free make-and-take craft. 10am-4pm. Wood County Historical Center & Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green. woodcountyhistory.org. FREE
POINT & CLICK FOR MORE EVENTS
Moon Mouse A Space Odyssey!Renowned for their captivating performances on America’s Got Talent, Lightwire’s electrifying show Moon Mouse: A Space Odyssey will make its Valentine debut. Ticketed. $15-$20. The Valentine Theatre, 410 N. Superior St. valentinetheatre.com
MONDAY 3
Chemistry (Imagination Station Workshop on Wheels) - Students will discover substances with strange and surprising properties. Grades 3-8. 3:30-4:30pm. Washington Branch Library, 5560 Harvest Lane. toledolibrary.org. Free
Preschool Early Literacy Playdate - Drop in with your preschooler. While they move, explore, pretend and make friends, the library’s Ready to Read team will introduce you to early literacy program designed to help you raise great readers. 6-7pm. Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. toledolibrary.org. FREE
TUESDAY 4
Preschool: The Rainbow FishPreschoolers (ages 2-5) and their adult partners will enjoy the classic story “The Rainbow Fish” by Marcus Pfister, along with activities like painting rainbow fish, playing games, and learning about schools of fish. Registration is required. $15. 10-10:45am. The 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 577 foundation.org
WEDNESDAY 5
Toddler Trails (Ages 0-3) - This outdoor, multi-sensory nature play invites toddlers up to three years old to explore the natural world and promotes its preservation. Registration is required. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. metroparkstoledo.com. FREE
THURSDAY 6
Mindfulness Painting for Kids - Find your Zen with Buddha Board painting. 3-4pm. Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
Shamrock Skate Night - Glide into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit with festive music, glowing green lights, and a night filled with luck and laughter! $5, $2 skate rental. Ottawa Park Ice Rink, 2015 Parkside Dr. @cityoftoledo
SATURDAY 8
Girl Power - Girl Power inspires girls in grades 3-8 to explore STEAM through hands-on workshops, activities, and talks with diverse local female professionals, sparking curiosity and empowering them to follow their dreams. Ticketed. $25-$30. 9:30am - 5pm. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. imaginationstationtoledo.org
Shamrock Hunt in the Park - Lucky, the mischievous Leprechaun, has set up a scavenger hunt at Olander Park! Put on your favorite green clothing (kids, bring your mystery-solving adult sidekick) and enjoy an afternoon of fun! $3. Olander Park, 6930 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. olander.recdesk.com
Fantasticon - A comic book and pop culture convention featuring comic books, toys, action figures, games, and original art. It also includes Q&A panels, cosplay, trivia, and other interactive games. 10am. Also on Sunday, Mar. 9, 11am. Glass City Center, 401 Jefferson Ave. fantasticon.net
TUESDAY 11
Preschool: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom - Preschoolers (ages 2-5) and their adult partners will enjoy the classic story Chicka Chicka Boom Boom . Afterward, dive into ABC-inspired activities, including crafting, musical games, and learning about the alphabet! Registration is required. $15. 1010:45am. The 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 577 foundation.org
Awesome Owl Barf (All Ages) - Join Metroparks Toledo for an “ew but awesome” experience as you dissect owl pellets to see what an owl has been eating! All tools and equipment provided. Registration is required. $6. Brookwood Metropark, 5604 Swan Creek Dr. metroparkstoledo.com
THURSDAY 13
Helping your K-3 Reader - Participating caregivers will receive a Ready to Read K-3 toolkit, filled with tools and activities to help strengthen reading skills. Registration is required. Virtual. toledolibrary.org
Lucas DD’s Annual Inclusion Resource Fair is an inclusive event with many activities and resources. Registration is recommended. 5:30pm. St. Clement Hall, 2990 Tremainsville Rd. lucasdd.org.
The Annual Zenobia Shrine CircusThe Shrine members are thrilled to bring the Circus back to Toledo, offering breathtaking acts and wholesome family entertainment for all of Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. Ticketed. $10-$35. Thursday, Mar. 13, 6:30pm. Friday, Mar. 14, 7pm. Saturday, Mar. 15, 11am, 3pm and 7pm. Sunday, Mar. 16, 1pm and 5pm. Glass City Center, 401 Jefferson Ave. zenobiashriners.com
FRIDAY 14
Monster Jam® - Experience Monster Jam® live and become a fan for life! With awesome trucks, thrilling stunts, and action-packed excitement, it’s the ultimate fun for everyone! Ticketed. $20-$60. 7pm. Also on Saturday, Mar. 15 at 1pm and 7pm, and Sunday, Mar. 16 at 1pm and 6:30pm. Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave. huntingtoncentertoledo.com
SATURDAY 15
Northwest Ohio Teen Book Festival - The Northwest Ohio Teen Book Festival is a special event for teens and tweens in the region, offering the chance to meet favorite authors, discover new ones, and celebrate all things books! 9am-3:30pm. Rossford Junior/Senior High School, 701 Superior St.., Rossford. nwoteenbookfest.com
Fibonacci Art - Create cool patterns, spirals, and designs that follow the Fibonacci sequence in this engaging art session! 2-3pm. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
MONDAY 17
Nature Scavenger Hunt: St. Patrick’s Day (Families) - Use the power of magnetism to navigate around a St. Patrick’s Day themed scavenger hunt! Find nature clues to solve riddles and puzzles along the way. Registration is required. $3. 6-7:30pm. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. metroparkstoledo.com.
TUESDAY 18
Instrument Petting Zoo with TAPAThe Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts (TAPA) and the Toledo Symphony Youth Ensemble will perform for children ages 3-10, giving them the chance to explore different instruments. 4-5pm. Lagrange Branch Library, 3422 Lagrange St. toledolibrary.org. Free
SATURDAY 29
Aquarium 10 Year Anniversary Celebration
TheToledo Zoo’s historic Aquarium made a big splash when it reopened 10 years ago and they’re celebrating with special activities and a boatload of fishy-fun! 10am. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org
WEDNESDAY 19
Pearson Park Kids Club (Ages 8-12)
- Shoot a bow, cast a line, climb a tree, and more at this afterschool club for adventureseeking 8 to 12-year-olds. Sessions meet weekly on Wednesdays. Registration is required. $65. 6-7:30pm. Pearson Metropark, 761 Lallendorf Rd., Oregon. metroparkstoledo.com
FRIDAY 21
Preschool Move, Play, & Grow: Shamrocks! - A seasonally themed sensorimotor fun fest for kids ages 3-6 and their adult caregivers! Dive into shamrock and rainbow-themed activity stations, designed by an occupational therapist to boost coordination, sensory processing, social skills, self-regulation, and more! Registration is required. $25. The 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 577 foundation.org
SATURDAY 22
Teddy Bear Care Fair - Bring your favorite stuffed pal for a check-up! Zoo volunteers will fix it up for another year, plus enjoy Keeper talks, animal feedings, characters, and more bear-y fun activities! 10am. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org
Tinkering Takeover - Enjoy interactive science and engineering with a spark of creativity during Imagination Station’s Tinkering Takeover. 11am-1pm. West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. toledolibrary.org
Alice in Wonderland - This spring, the Ballet Theatre of Toledo presents Alice in Wonderland. Join Alice and her whimsical friends on a marvelous adventure through the looking glass! Ticketed. $15-$20. 2pm. The Valentine Theatre, 410 N. Superior St. valentinetheatre.com
TUESDAY 25
Magic Story Artistry with Yasu Ishida - Combining traditional Japanese theatre, music, origami, magic, and storytelling; Yasu Ishida will guide you to the enchanting land of Japan. 6-7pm. Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Rd., Maumee. toledolibrary.org. FREE
Cont’d on p26
WEDNESDAY 26
School’s Off, Parks On! Mini-Camps: Spring Sprouts Mini-Camp - Spend the day off with fun, age-appropriate camp activities including story time, crafts, experiments, nature strolls, and games. Daily snack included! Registration is required. $35. 9am. Oak Openings Metropark, 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton. metroparkstoledo.com
FRIDAY 28
Youth Art Adventures: Nature Explorers - Explore nature through story and art in this class designed for preschoolers and their adult guardian. Registration is required. $15. 10-11am. The 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 577 foundation.org
THURSDAY 3
STEM in the Stacks: Rookie Robotics - Presented by Kool Kat Science - Rookie Robotics is a 4-week STEM class for kids who love robots and tinkering with electronics. Meeting Thursdays from April 3 to May 5, the class will include coding-based projects. Registration is required. 4:30-6pm. West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. toledolibrary.org. FREE
MONDAY 7
Art in the Park: PreK - Create art inspired by nature and the world around us! Come dressed for mess and outdoor play. Registration is required. $4-$7. 10-11am. Nederhouser Community Hall at Olander Park, 6930 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. olander.recdesk.com
Easter Bunny Meet & Greet - Join A Village Learning Center for a fun-filled day with a meet and greet with the Easter Bunny, Easter eggs, crafts, and prizes! 2-4pm. A Village Learning Center, 4346 Secor Rd. avillagetoledo.com. FREE
• March/April 2025 • www.toledoparent.com
FRIDAY 4
Free First Fridays & Make and Take Craft Day - Enjoy free admission to the Wood County Museum every first Friday, plus a free make-and-take craft. 10am-4pm. Wood County Historical Center & Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green. woodcountyhistory.org. FREE
SATURDAY 5
Magic of Fairies - Crafts and treats filled with fairy fun! 2-3pm. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St., toledolibrary.org. FREE
THURSDAY 10
Nickelodeon ™ The Spongebob Musical - SpongeBob SquarePants and his underwater friends are riding the wave to BGSU’s Donnell Theatre for a brilliant, bright, and hilarious new musical that will entertain and delight audiences! 8pm. Also on Friday, Apr. 11 at 8pm, Saturday, Apr. 12 at 2pm and 8pm, and Sunday, Apr. 13 at 2pm. $5-$15. Bowling Green State University, 1001 E Wooster St., Bowling Green. events.bgsu.edu
SATURDAY 12
Why Trees Matter: Papermaking with KTLCB - Learn about the importance of trees and their environmental impact with Keep Toledo/Lucas County Beautiful. Simulate a recycling facility by turning old paper into pulp and creating new paper! 2-2:45pm. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary. org. FREE
Free Photos with Easter Bunny - Bring the kids for a FREE digital photo with our favorite Easter Bunny! A professional photographer will capture the moment with a fun backdrop. Free photos will be sent via email, but feel free to take your own too! 3-5pm. Plant HouseToledo, 5938 Secor Rd.
TUESDAY 15
Girl Scouts of Western Ohio Spring Break Day Camp - Open to girls in grades K-5 who aren’t currently Girl Scouts or are in a forming Troop. Financial aid is available to help cover the cost of becoming a new Girl Scout during camp registration, and financial aid can also be applied to Spring Break Day Camp registration. $25. 10am-4pm. Runs through Thursday, Apr. 17. Deveaux Elementary School, 2620 W. Sylvania Ave. gswo.org
Spring STEM: Minecraft - Play Minecraft and related activities with other fans of the game! 2-3pm. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
WEDNESDAY 16
Earth Day STEM: presented by Arclin - Discover how to reuse and recycle a plastic bottle through three exciting science experiments! 2-3pm. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
FRIDAY 18
Breakfast with the Bunny - Join The Toledo Zoo for an egg hunt, cookie decorating, crafts, a delicious breakfast buffet, and an egg-citing animal encounter! Enjoy a meet-and-greet photo opportunity with the Easter Bunny. Tickets include parking and Zoo admission. Ticketed. $35-$50. 9-11am. Also on Satuday, Apr. 20 from 9-11am. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org
SATURDAY 19
Fourth Annual Metroparks Takeover
- Metroparks Toledo is taking over the Main Library for an unforgettable day of fun and adventure—no registration required! Try tree climbing, archery, rock wall climbing, and more. Metroparks outdoor skills experts will be there to help you discover your next outdoor passion, no matter your experience level. Noon-4pm. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
TUESDAY 22
For the Love of Earth! - Recycled Art Making - Upcycle your art making and create a beautiful artwork using found and repurposed materials. 5-6pm. South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
WEDNESDAY 23
Martial Arts for Kids - Have a blast with Sempai Shelly Blanco from Ohio Martial Arts as you learn kicks, punches, and self-defense techniques. Plus, discover valuable lifestyle skills like how to avoid conflict with bullies and build self-confidence. 4-5pm. West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. toledolibrary.org. FREE
SATURDAY 26
Party for the Planet - Join the Toledo Zoo for Party for the Planet as we celebrate Mother Earth and highlight our mission of advocating for wildlife and conserving the natural world! 10am. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org
DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK, BOAT, RV AND MORE TO SUPPORT OUR VETERANS! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-877-327-0686 today!
BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR. WE WANT TO READ YOUR BOOK! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-866-482-1576 or visit dorranceinfo.com/macnet
GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, nocost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-844-320-2804 today!
INFLATION IS AT 40 YEAR HIGHS. Interest rates are way up. Credit Cards. Medical Bills. Car Loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call NATIONAL DEBT RELIEF and find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! FREE quote: Call 1-866-272-0492
FOR SALE,
MATERIALS - ROOFING MATERIAL
DISCOUNT METAL ROOFING & SIDING FOR HOUSES, BARN, SHEDS. Bare, Painted & Stainless Steel. Good Quality Sold As Seconds. Made in Ephrata PA. Email: sales@7174455222.com 717-445-5222 HEALTH/MEDICAL
STROKE AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE ARE LEADING CAUSES OF DEATH, ACCORDING TO THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-866-518-8391
