Northeast Ohio Parent, November 2014

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NOVEMBER 2014

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NOVEMBER

Contents Vol. 1 No. 9 2014

12 Features

34

15 Being Inspired by Isabella

One child’s story about living with Type 1 Diabetes and her family’s efforts to fight for a cure.

By Glen Miller Leona and Zavier, both originally from Ethiopia, have been adopted into a North Canton family.

18 Nurturing Gifted Kids What you can do to meet your gifted child’s educational needs.

By Ingrid Schaefer Sprague

Photo by Love Bug Photography.

20 Getting Kids Involved in Volunteering The importance of teaching your kids about giving back at an early age.

By Raven Gayheart

22 Faces of Adoption

Columns & Departments

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Editor’s Note

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Worth Noting

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29 Holiday Shopping Begins!

A look at this season’s trendy gift ideas for your children and teens, including ones that inspire the imagination.

55 Social Media Sharing Be aware of the dangers of posting photos on social media.

By Mark Phillips

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Family Health: Cloth Diapers Education: School Conferences Community Focus: Westlake

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November Calendar Compassion Corner: Fostering Hope Aging Answers: Holiday Blues Publisher’s Note Our Adoption Story

On the cover: Leona, Zavier, Aidan, Jake and Jay. Photo by Love Bug Photography

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Local families share their adoption journeys.

By Denise Koeth

NortheastOhioParent.com

Oops! Quotes by Rhoda Konigsberg, owner and director of The Tutoring Center, were misidentified in the October article “Help Kids Help Themselves.” Ryan Gleason from Kumon was quoted under the “Aptitude Rich” subhead, however, Konigsberg made those statements. We regret this error.

November 2014

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Photo by Prelude Photography preludephoto.net

Editor’s Note ISSN 2373-5120

By Angela Gartner

Remembering Our Favorites It’s time to write about Jimmy Carter — and no, I am not talking about the 39th president.

In fact, I am talking about a stuffed blue dog with grey and green dots that has a light blue patch over one eye from the “Just One Year” collection by the Carter brand.

The stuffed dog was first known as “Carter” to my oldest son Noel. It became the full name “Jimmy Carter” thanks to his grandparents’ teasing, and now has evolved to the shortened version “Jimmy” and is the one item my son cherishes.

I was so excited when I bought the stuffed dog a month before Noel was born, who, incidentally, came into this world on Christmas Day. While I tried to make him play with it, my son didn’t want anything to do with it during that time. A couple of years later, he found it in a toy bin and now, it has become his favorite.

As kids, many of us had a stuffed animal, (mine was a Pound Puppy named Barney) doll, action figure, blanket or random toy that was favored over the other inhabitants in our room.

As I was looking over the product list in this month’s holiday shopping section on pg. 29, I started to think about all the gifts we plan for the children in our lives. While some may be a hit during this season, others may resonate long after the excitement is over.

Shopping for the perfect gift is part of the fun, so we provided you with some top shops in the region. You can find that on pg. 34.

While we get a head start to the holiday season, we can’t forget those living without. Read about ways your family — even your littlest member — can help others in need on pg. 20.

Also, as you flip through the pages of this issue, you’ll find we packed them with topics from choosing the right diaper for your baby to learning about gifted student programs in the region.

Finally, I am often reminded how lucky I am to have my family and my career. So, in the true spirit of Thanksgiving, I wanted to say thanks to you, the reader. We appreciate all the suggestions and ideas, along with the Northeast Ohio families who have shared their stories with us.

Hope you all have a safe and happy month!

Angela angela@northeastohioparent.com

Contact Us Advertising inquires: sales@northeastohioparent.com Editorial suggestions: editor@northeastohioparent.com Calender listings for print or online edition: calendar@northeastohioparent.com Subscription questions: tbaitz@babcox.com

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November 2014

Northeast Ohio Parent is a property of Blue Bug Media, a division of Babcox Media, Inc. 3550 Embassy Parkway, Fairlawn, OH 44333 330­670­1234 24500 Chagrin Blvd., Suite 300, Cleveland, OH 44122 440­842­8600 NortheastOhioParent.com Publisher Brad Mitchell brad@northeastohioparent.com Editorial Angela Gartner, Editor angela@northeastohioparent.com Jennifer Clements, Managing Editor jennifer@northeastohioparent.com Contributors: Denise Koeth, Mark Phillips, Raven Gayheart, Marie Elium, Ingrid Sprague, Glen Miller Art & Production Melinda Kiba, Designer | mkiba@babcox.com Advertising Services Amanda Wingerter, Ad Services Coordinator | awingerter@babcox.com 330-670-1234 ext. 223 Advertising Sales Chris Geer, 330-670-1234 ext. 246 chris@northeastohioparent.com Janyse Heidy, 330-670-1234 ext. 250 janyse@northeastohioparent.com Tarah King, 330-670-1234 ext. 245 tarah@northeastohioparent.com Andie Martin, 330-670-1234 ext. 207 andie@northeastohioparent.com Marketing/Events Hallie Brown, Marketing Coordinator | hallie@northeastohioparent.com Audience Development Brandi Gangel, Audience Development Manager | bgangel@babcox.com eMedia Jeff Philip, eMedia Development Manager | jphilip@babcox.com Cecilia Locke, eMedia Developer | clocke@babcox.com Emily Bobb, Digital Ad Specialist | ebobb@babcox.com Corporate Bill Babcox, President Greg Cira, Vice President/Chief Financial Officer John DiPaola, Vice President/Group Publisher Beth Scheetz, Controller

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Worth Noting

Reading Room Cozy up in your favorite place and explore the wonders of books with your child. From infants to teenagers, here are a few suggestions to purchase or pick up at your local library.

Teens

Let’s Get Lost by Adi Alsaid Four teens, Hudson, a small-town mechanic; Bree, a runaway; Elliot, who believes in happy endings; and Sonia, who worries she’s lost the ability to love, all have one thing in common — a girl named Leila. She crashes into their lives at the moment they need someone the most.

Recommendation courtesy of Medina County Public Library.

Grades 3-7

The Blossoming Universe of Violet Diamond by Brenda Woods Violet is a smart, funny, brown-eyed, brown-haired girl in a family of blondes. She comes from a multicultural family, as her dad, who died before she was born, was African American. Now at age 11, Violet decides it’s time to learn about her heritage. Recommendation courtesy of Westlake Porter Public Library.

Ages 4-8

Mogie: The Heart of the House by Kathi Appelt, illustrated by Marc Rosenthal Mogie is a ball-chasing, tail-wagging, moon-howling pup, and he found a place that is just right for him: a very special house where sick children and their families can stay while they undergo long-term treatment. Based on a true story, this picture book is published in conjunction with the Ronald McDonald House. Recommendation courtesy of Avon Lake Public Library.

Café O’Play Opening Café O’Play in Stow will open this month in a 9,000-square-foot space in Graham Square Plaza.

The large indoor playground will feature a multilevel structure, along with a sports area and creative play for ages 10 and younger.

Parents can enjoy a gourmet café while kids are at the play area, as well as shop at the small retail space called “Rosemary’s Boutique” that will have unique gifts and toys.

Café O’Play will have a variety of special events for both children and parents. Two party rooms are also available. cafeoplay.com.

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Share the Spirit of the Holidays with Those Who Need It Most Join The Salvation Army to help area families and individuals feel the special warmth of the holiday season.

For many of us, the holidays are a time of joy and celebration as we share our love with family and friends. However, for some in our community, the holidays are a time of great stress, depression and a feeling of hopelessness.

Each year, caring people are able to actively participate and make someone's holiday better.

From donating money, coats and toys, to volunteering just a few hours of time, you can help less fortunate children and families. Financial support provides basic needs, such as vouchers for utilities, rent or grocery items and other life-transforming resources.

Learn how your donations and volunteered time can make a difference. Visit Salvationarmyohio.org or call The Salvation Army at 216-861-8185. To make a one-time $10 donation, text “KettleNeo” to 41444.

Top 10 Best Family Cars for 2014 Parents magazine and Edmunds.com revealed their list of top 10 best family cars. The list includes choices for everyone, from budget-conscious environmentalists to big families seeking more space.

The list also puts new technology in cars into view with family-friendly safety and comfort features. From lane departure warnings to the Honda Odyssey’s popular builtin vacuum, each vehicle offers an affordable technology upgrade. Here are some of the highlights: • Mazda 3 ($17,740) includes a Smart City Brake Support, which slows or stops your car when its front laser sensor detects a possible collision with a vehicle or object.

• Toyota Prius ($25,010) has an embedded solar panel roof as an add-on that’s available on most trim levels. It powers a fan to circulate ambient air through the cabin to keep your car cool in the hot sun.

• Honda Accord ($22,745) features LaneWatch, which is available on the EX trim level, helping you check your right-side blind spot for pedestrians, cars and other objects. When the driver engages the right turn signal, a camera in the passenger-side door mirror activates, sending a wide-angle view of the right rear area to your in-vehicle display.

Visit NortheastOhio Parent.com for the complete top cars list and more familyfriendly car information.

Family Living At Its Best

Worth Noting

Break Out the

Ugly Sweaters Early!

The holiday season is all about making fun memories. Why not make something no one will soon forget? For your Thanksgiving table or your holiday party, create an ugly sweater cake.

Servings: 10–12 1 package (16.25 ounces) Devil’s Food cake mix 1/4 cup hot cocoa mix 3 eggs 2/3 cup water 1/3 cup vegetable oil 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract Buttercream icing Red Decorator Preferred Rolled Fondant White Decorator Preferred Rolled Fondant Primary Colored Fondant Multipack Piping Gel String licorice Sprinkles: Sugar Pearls, Trees, Yellow Colored Sugar Preheat oven to 325° F. Spray Ugly Sweater Cake Pan with vegetable pan spray.

In large bowl, beat cake mix, hot cocoa mix, eggs, water, vegetable oil and peppermint extract with electric mixer at low speed 30 seconds. Scrape bottom and sides of bowl; beat at medium speed 2 minutes.

Pour batter into prepared pan, spreading to even thickness.

Bake minutes 44–47 minutes or until toothpick inserted into center of cake comes out clean. Cool in pan on cooling grid 10 minutes. Remove from pan; cool completely on grid.

With spatula, lightly ice cooled cake. Roll out red fondant 1/8 inch thick; cover cake. Knead small amount of white fondant into remaining red fondant, white with small amount of yellow fondant, small amount of yellow fondant with green fondant.

Roll out all colors of fondant separately, 1/16 inch thick. Using holiday cutters, patterns or cut free-form, to make collar, ornaments and sweater neckline, cuffs and bottom band. Use piping gel to attach licorice ornament hangers, sprinkles and sugars.

Article courtesy of Family Features.

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Family Health

THE BOTTOM LINE

ON CLOTH DIAPERS

Here’s another option to help keep your baby dry throughout the day.

Choosing the right diaper for your baby is something you begin to think about, not just with your first child, but also with your second, third, and so on.

While there are so many options, how do you know if disposal or cloth is the right fit for your family?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, ideally, parents should make the choice between cloth and dispos-

able diapers before the baby arrives, so they can stock up or make delivery arrangements ahead of time.

While disposal diapers still seem popular on the retail shelves and among many, there are also parents who prefer only cloth diapers.

There are major differences between the two types of diapers. While disposal diapers can be bought at a local store and then, after use, head right to your trash bin, cloth diapers have another system for care and disposal.

Carie Garrett, owner of Baby Bottoms Diaper Service, which serves families in the Akron area, and a registered nurse, provides some answers about cloth diapers and how they work.

What kinds of cloth diapers can people use?

There are so many different styles of cloth diapers. They have come a long way since rubber pants and diaper pins.

All the choices can be a little overwhelming and I think it is important for busy parents to just keep it simple.

How important is the type of cloth used for the diaper?

The type of cloth used for a diaper is really just personal preference. Natural fabrics, like cotton and hemp, are absorbent and breathable, but tend to be more expensive and take longer to dry. Synthetic fabrics dry faster and have a stay-dry feel, but tend to cause more issues with home washing overtime.

How can parents tell which cloth diaper is the best fit for their child?

It’s important to find a quality, durable diaper so that as your baby grows, it will continue to fit snug around the legs and waist.

What's the difference between the leak protection of a disposal diaper and that of a cloth diaper?

I made the switch to cloth diapers when my first was nearly age 1. For that first year, we went through so many different brands of disposables. I used cloth diapers right from the start with my second, and we never once lost an outfit due to a blowout. You can get a customized fit with a cloth diaper.

How does the cloth diaper work?

We provide a cotton diaper that is sized to fit in a modern-day diaper cover without any fancy folds or pins needed.

It is simply placed in diaper shell and then wrapped around baby just like a disposable.

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How many diapers do families go through per day?

On average, babies go through eight-12 diapers per day.

More for newborns, less as your baby gets closer to using the potty. It is important to change your baby’s diaper whenever it is soiled. There is no prize for how many times a baby can pee in a diaper before it is changed.

How do families deal with the disposal of the diapers?

When you are using a diaper service, you simply toss the diaper in the diaper pail, making it just as easy as a disposable.

Then once a week, you place the bag of dirty diapers on your front porch and the bag is replaced with a clean set of diapers. Cloth diapers can be washed many times before they are retired to a new life as a rag.

What are the benefits of using cloth diapers?

Cloth diapers are soft, breathable and made of layers of fabric, instead of wood pulp and chemicals to make them absorbent. They are washed with clean-rinsing baby- and earth-friendly detergents, making them reusable and sustainable.

What's the cost difference between disposal diapers and cloth diapers?

Parents who have the time and desire to wash their own diapers will save a ton of money. For those who want the benefits of cloth diapers, yet enjoy the convenience of a diaper service, the cost is comparable to disposables.

Family Living At Its Best

NortheastOhioParent.com

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Education Corner

Planning for School Conferences With school conferences coming up, do you know how to talk with your child’s teacher?

Your child will be in school for many years. It’s really important to develop open communications with the staff at your child’s school, and most important — the teachers.

Remember, whether your child attends a public school (you pay taxes) or a private school (you pay taxes plus tuition), you are the customer.

Here are some ways to help parents have more productive communications with their child’s teachers and school staff.

Focus On Solutions — Remove Blame No one likes to be blamed for a problem, yet parents, children and even the schools, blame each other when “Josh isn’t learning or behaving” in the classroom.

Whether the problem is Josh’s confusion with division, behavior or test scores, remain calm. Focus on a solution that you, the teacher and your child develop together.

Your relationship with your child’s teacher and school is very important. Communicate assertively (be assertive, not aggressive) when you ask for the school’s help with your child.

Have your questions ready for the teacher and make sure they get answered before the conference is over.

While exuding a positive attitude, be firm and reasonable

while discussing your concerns with your child’s teacher. If you get no satisfaction, it is important to follow the “school chain of command” when seeking solutions. (Here’s the chain in most schools — teacher, principal, pupil services director, superintendent and school board.)

Persistence pays off, celebrate the success. It’s easy to complain, however, few people take the time to appreciate accomplishments. Write a letter to the school superintendent, to thank the teacher and commend him or her for the help with your child. Send a copy of the letter to the school principal.

The next time you ask for help “to solve a problem,” the school will be more likely to listen.

Listen to Your Child No one knows your child better than you. Your thoughtful attention to your child’s feelings, body language and ideas about school will give you clues to small problems and potential solutions.

As you listen, remember your child’s description of a situation may be somewhat skewed or inaccurate.

However, your child’s input is critical to finding a solution.

Fill in the missing puzzle pieces by communicating positively with your child’s teacher.

Think Outside the Box Every school has a personality. Its personality is developed by the school principal and its teachers.

As a parent, you have a unique “outsider’s” perspective of the school environment.

Unlike school staff, you don’t “live” there five days a week. Use your creativity to help the school and teacher “think outside the box” when solving your child’s problems.

While conferences are a way to work with your teacher on different strategies to help your child succeed, make sure to follow up after the conference is completed.

Carole Richards is president of North Coast Tutoring Services, president/director of the Academic Fun & Fitness Camp at Lakeland Community College, author of RICHARDS READ Systematic Language. She can be reached at caroler@northcoasted.com

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Dooley Kristina and Greg, ft) (le lla be Isa th wi sister Mia and brother Max.

Four-year-old with type 1 diabetes and her family share their story.

By Glen Miller

At age 4, Isabella Dooley has calloused fingertips that look as if she has played guitar or violin for dozens of years, even though she has never handled either instrument.

In fact, her hardened tips have been caused by being pricked with a needle eight to 10 times a day to test her blood glucose levels, a necessity since she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) two years ago.

“Amazingly, she has never shed a tear, although we know it hurts because my husband and I have both done it once with the little lancing device just to test ourselves,” her mother, Kristina Dooley, says.

Isabella is among a growing number of children with type 1 diabetes, which has increased 23 percent in young children within the last decade.

Unlike the causes of type 2 diabetes, the autoimmune disease has nothing to do with a child’s or adult’s diet, lifestyle or being obese. Like other children or adults with the disease, Isabella’s pancreas doesn’t produce insulin, a hormone needed to convert sugar into energy. This forces Kristina and her husband, Greg Dooley, to constantly check what Isabella eats, especially foods with too many carbohydrates that are instantly converted into sugar.

themselves about T1D, the Dooleys’ lifestyle had to change.

“We had to learn how to give her insulin injections, how to count her carbs and a whole bunch of things. It was almost like going to boot camp,” Kristina says. “But we learned quickly because every child — every person whose has type 1 — needs a different amount of insulin.”

From the start, Greg says he and Kristina explained to Isabella in a simple way what diabetes is and why she needs to have multiple daily injections.

“Although she still doesn’t fully comprehend her diabetes, Isabella does understand that she needs insulin daily,” he adds.

“We didn’t want her to feel different, but we did want her to understand why she needed insulin and her triplet brother and sister did not,” he says. “We also wanted her to understand her disease would always be with her and has to be managed properly every day to ensure she would remain healthy.”

Coping for the Dooleys and their daughter has been made easier through a strong support network of families with

Adapting to a Different Lifestyle Triplets Isabella, Mia and Max were born while the Dooleys of Macedonia were living in Argentina, where Greg was working for the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. Only days before Isabella’s second birthday, Kristina says her usually energetic daughter became listless and lethargic, forcing her to take Isabella to a British-American hospital in Mexico City where she was found to have the disease.

Not only did the couple quickly educate Family Living At Its Best

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Being Inspired By Isabella T1D children, with whom Isabella has made friends.

The friends she has made through the family’s close association with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) will be a “huge source of support for her as she gets older,” Greg says.

Isabella is still too young to attend diabetes camps, like Camp Ho Mita Koda in Geauga County. As she gets older, however, Greg says he and his

Isabella smiles after an insulin error sent her to the Cleveland Clinic.

Isabella Dooley proudly displays her insulin pump patch (at left ). Trekkers at a recent Type 1 Diabetes fund-raising walk carry an InspiredByIsabella banner (middle).

wife will consider enrolling her in one.

In the meantime, the family has opted to attend the Children with Diabetes “Friends for Life” Conference in Orlando, Fla., the last two years.

Although it is not a camp, Greg says the conference allows parents and children with diabetes to learn how to better manage physical and emotional challenges that come with diabetes.

Fighting for a Cure Currently, there is no cure for type 1 diabetes. This is why the Dooleys are hoping and working for one by participating in JDRF events, along with sharing their story and resources through the family’s website and social media sites called Inspired By Isabella.

“We’re dedicated to finding a cure not only for Isabella, but for every child and person because we want better treatment, prevention and eventually a cure for this disease,” Kristina says.

“Her life depends on these blood checks and the insulin pump (a patch) she now wears, but we don’t want Isabella to be ashamed or embarrassed about having type 1 diabetes, or let it define who she is as a person,” she says.

In reality, Isabella is medically different from other children. She cannot eat some of the foods and goodies they enjoy and faces life-threatening consequences if the disease is not controlled by insulin. Yet, she willingly talks about her pump with anyone who asks, isn’t ashamed about showing it off and has even learned to check her own blood sugar, Kristina adds.

To learn more about the family’s fight to raise awareness and funding, along with diabetes resources, visit inspiredbyisabella.com.

Also, November is Diabetes Awareness Month, visit neo.jdrf.org to learn more about the disease.

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Nurturing Gifted Kids

By Ingrid Schaefer Sprague

Is Your Child Gifted?

The identification of a gifted student is a process that varies somewhat by school district. The child is either identified by the school or can be nominated for assessment by a parent.

Dr. Daniel Weinberger, gifted child psychologist of Humanistic Counseling Center in Lyndhurst, notes the method of identification of gifted children in school districts varies with

the tests administered as well as the IQ score cutoff.

The Cognitive Abilities Test, or CogAT, is widely used for assessment of students in kindergarten through grade 12.

Usually based on that test, an IQ (intelligence quotient) test is given to the child. Normally the Wexler Intelligence Scale (WISC-IV) is used to determine IQ, however, Ohio allows other tests to be administered by a psychologist if it is determined another “IQ” test may be a better fit to the child.

If a school only uses one type of IQ test, the parent may need to request testing of the child by an outside psychologist. (The parent is responsible for the cost of this testing, which may be covered in part by insurance.) The IQ results determine whether the school proceeds with additional testing they require or direct placement of the child in a gifted program.

“The IQ score is not fixed,” Weinberger says. “People need to realize IQ is just the mental age over the chronological age. It determines how old the test thinks you are compared to what you really are. This changes over time against people your age using norms within four months of age.”

Although there are state requirements that guide schools in assessment and testing for gifted identification, this variability among communities is not necessarily bad, considering other factors between communities.

“It wouldn’t make sense to have the same criteria,” Weinberger says. “But it does make sense that gifted students are provided a certain level of service.”

Schools Taking Steps for the Gifted So, once a child is identified as gifted, what are public schools doing to meet his or her educational needs?

It depends on the school district — some provide selfcontained gifted classrooms, others offer pullout programs, some provide differentiation in a regular classroom, individualized instruction in a multi-grade classroom, or allow children to “skip” a grade.

Carla Calevich, director of curriculum and instruction at

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Brecksville-Broadview Heights City Schools, discussed her district’s gifted education curriculum.

The schools’ gifted program coordinator is Pat Rehm through the Educational Services Center of Cuyahoga County. In the district, identified gifted students are placed in a Challenge program, which provides both advanced English and math. This self-contained classroom begins in third grade at one elementary school, and continues through fifth grade.

Going Beyond the Classroom In many school districts across Ohio, gifted students can take their learning to higher education or other enhanced opportunities. For example, eligible high school students can take postsecondary college courses with partnered Ohio colleges and universities.

Gifted students can also elect to attend facilities such as Cuyahoga Valley Career Center for other vocational opportunities.

Willoughby-Eastlake Schools has created the School of Innovation (SOI), which will infuse STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) curriculum and instructional practices with a focus on rigorous Design Focused Learning. The school is set to open next August.

“STEM schools engage everyone in transdisciplinary teaching and learning rooted in problem-solving,” according to a school release. “This encourages children to learn complex concepts in a context that they find relevant and therefore more engaging.”

Deborah Morgan, gifted coordinator at Geauga County Educational Service Center and model parent group certified facilitator of Serving the Emotional Needs of the Gifted, shared the services provided to gifted students in Geauga and Lake counties, saying of several problem-based learning models offered in her counties, Future City competition is among the programs she is most proud. Students in the competition envision a city 150 years into the future, and build a Sim City software rendition of the city and a 3D model based on a selected theme.

Opportunities such as this are vital, Family Living At Its Best

according to Morgan, because gifted students often don’t encounter hurdles in learning until college.

Other enhanced educational opportunities include NASA-Glenn Young Astronauts Day, Power of the Pen, Science Olympiad and Model United Nations.

Shawn Jivide, educational services center gifted consultant in Summit County, says “Gifted children should have opportunities daily to be together to grow academically, socially and

emotionally and to gain a better understanding of their giftedness.”

For gifted students, in-school curriculum and the extracurricular opportunities are only part of the puzzle. Parents can and should participate actively in their gifted child’s education by providing independent experiences, including family trips, scouting activities, musical instruments, foreign language, sports, museum visits and job shadowing.

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GIVING BACK AT AN EARLY AGE

By Raven Gayheart

Getting your kids involved is made easy.

Joining an organization, participating in community service and donating time and resources to a charitable cause all contribute to the greater good. Without volunteers, many non-profits would not be able to offer their invaluable services. Community engagement is a learned responsibility and should be taught early. Becoming civically engaged can help shape children into compassionate, wellequipped members of society.

Youth can become service-minded if parents help instill the importance of giving-back at an early age. The easiest way for children to grasp the significance of service is for parents to role model it for them. Children imitate and place value on activities their parents deem important.

Summit County resident Debbie McKinney and her daughter have been volunteering together for years. Bake sales, mitten drives, community clean-up days, mission trips — the list is extensive.

“Getting involved with your kids doesn’t mean you have to plan a large, time-intensive event,” McKinney says. “Look for needs in your neighborhood and utilize your church, company or scout troop to accomplish them. Small things can make a big impact when people come together.”

McKinney’s daughter Dana has done just that. A junior at Revere High School in Richfield, she has organized outreach activities to help families not only in Northeast Ohio, but in Boston too. Last summer, she created the “Bath Loves Boston” event, which raised funds to support the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing.

“I just want to help,” Dana says. “I’m thankful for everything in my life and I just want to give back and help others be happy too.”

For her birthday, she asked family and friends to donate gift cards or money so she could purchase Christmas gifts for the students in need at Findley Community Learning Center, an Akron Public School.

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Benefits of Service Service helps children focus outside themselves and more on the world around them. When they see that not everyone has what they have, they realize everyone has something to offer. It’s an important part of growing up — realizing what they can contribute as a member of the world.

“Volunteering allows them to identify their strengths and weaknesses,” says Margaret Finucane, an associate professor at John Carroll University, who has served as the director of the Center for Service and Social Action for the past eight years. “When young people experience another person’s journey and invest themselves in the opportunity of getting to know someone who lived experiences different than their own, they flourish.”

Getting Involved Finding the right volunteer activity is easy. Talk with children to find out what’s important to them and find an organization or project that aligns with those interests. It can be as simple as collecting food for the foodbank or serving Thanksgiving dinner at a local shelter.

Parents can get involved, too, with many different activities around the region.

For example, Tom Wolfe of Painesville Township has been volunteering with Project Hope, an emergency shelter serving men, women and children in Lake County, since 2008. The non-profit group seeks volunteers to greet guests, help serve dinner, homework assistance and more.

“This is where I learned what it means

Family Living At Its Best

to be without, to have no food on the table, or roof over my head,” he says.

Project Hope Volunteer Coordinator Missy Knight says many volunteers like Wolfe are able to see their time and energy make a difference.

“It’s during their service that they can encourage those who are feeling hopeless, and within weeks see these same people walk out with hope for a better future,” she says.

For Finucane, service has been a part of her life as far back as she can remember. While her children were growing up, she and her husband chose projects their kids could take part in.

Before and after each activity, Finucane would talk with her kids so they understood what they were doing and who they were helping.

“Volunteering became a part of what it meant to be a member of our family,” she says. “We would choose activities developmentally appropriate for their age, and would create simple, fun projects that would resonate with them.”

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By Denise Koeth Photos by Love Bug Photography

Local families share their adoption journeys.

Just as every family is different, each story of adoption is unique. While the end result is the same — a growing family and outpouring of love to a child in need — the paths vary.

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The Powers Family

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Kimberly Powers and her husband Don of Twinsburg wanted another child. Kimberly, who had daughter Alix, now 13, from a previous relationship, says the couple decided to adopt a school-age child after unsuccessful pregnancy attempts.

Her search began with Google and the keyword “school age adoption in Northeast Ohio,” which led to Northeast Ohio Adoption Services appearing on her screen.

The family’s adoption journey began with an interview at the agency in Warren and then classes.

The couple did have some fears. “My biggest fear was not loving (the child) the same,” Kimberly says. “I just kept chugging forward. These kids need homes and families, I have all that to offer them.”

When the family met Jasmine, 12, at the agency’s event at the Wagon Trails Animal Park in Youngstown, which brings prospective families and children seeking adoption together in a casual, fun environment, Kimberly says, “We knew immediately we wanted her in our life.”

After the event, the Powers family began the process to adopt Jasmine. Kimberly says they had already explained to Alix, who was 9 during that time, about adoption and she took part in a lot of the process.

“There were struggles at times,” Kimberly says. For example, and as with any new sibling, Alix and Jasmine had to adjust to living together in the same household, along with sharing.

That was two years ago and now Kimberly says it’s like Jasmine, now 15, has always been part of their lives — including being typical sisters with Alix.

“They have grown closer and closer as time has gone on,” Kimberly says.

Currently, the couple hopes to adopt another school-age child. “My husband and I look at, no matter how old a child is, they still need your love,” Kimberly says.

The Booth Family Brianne Booth of Medina never planned on adopting. In fact, she’d always wanted to marry young and have her own children. When her plans were taking a little longer than she thought, she decided to become a foster parent in 2009.

Photo by Carmen Studios Photography “I was 26 and still single when I got licensed,” she recalls. “I saw fostering almost as a stopgap until I had my own family. The only way I saw myself adopting is if it was an infant placed with me from the hospital. I never considered a school-aged child.”

Now, she can’t imagine life without her 7-year-old son, Aidan, who she began fostering in 2011 through Summit County Children Services in Akron.

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Faces of Adoption “There are just certain kids who just click with you, and you have more of a special bond,” Booth says of Aidan. “As the months went on, I found myself being more protective of him, getting more worried about him as the case progressed and we found out some (issues) about his birth family.”

There wasn’t an exact moment when Booth knew she would adopt Aidan. However, after about a year and a half, he started calling her “Mom,” she says, “It just changed my whole outlook.”

Then in February 2013, Summit County Children Services asked Booth to consider adoption because it seemed likely that Aidan would not be reunited with his birth family.

She adopted him the following January.

Aidan was in therapy through the whole foster and adoption process, which helped him to understand what was happening, Booth says.

Though the entire journey was unexpected, Booth thinks it was meant to be.

“If I had gotten married and had my own kids like I planned, I wouldn’t have Aidan — and I can’t imagine that,” she says.

The LeMaster Family Alana and Joel LeMaster of Marysville decided to adopt after medical issues made pregnancy not an option for the couple.

For Alana, who had always wanted to adopt, it wasn’t an issue. Initially she thought about school-age adoption, however, the couple eventually decided on trying for a newborn.

The couple went through the adoption process through Caring for Kids, an agency in Cuyahoga Falls. After being approved in April 2013, their search for a child began.

It wasn’t until December that year when they met birth mother Amber, who was 24 weeks pregnant with twins.

“You don’t really know how to act or present yourself,”

Alana says about her first meeting with Amber. “So you are trying to be yourself and I am sure it was equally nervewracking for (Amber).”

While Alana says during that time, Amber wasn’t sure about adoption, they still exchanged phone numbers, along with texts and Alana was sent ultrasound photos.

However, once the babies were born, things just fell into place. The couple met the babies, born prematurely on February 13, along with Amber’s family when they got to the hospital.

The twin boys, Dominic and Rex, were adopted and named

by Alana and Joel.

“Joel and I always say, her whole family adopted us into their lives rather than we adopted Amber’s children,” Alana says. “I was emotional and had a lot of struggles. I thought about Amber and feeling her pain. It was hard for me to balance those emotions at the same time knowing her and her whole family were grieving.”

Nine months later, both families are still very close.

“We talk every single day and send each other photos,” Alana says. “Amber has come visit and stayed with us a number of times. I feel so strongly that Amber and her kids were meant to be our family.”

The McCallion Family Nicole and Robert McCallion of Perry always considered adoption.

“With four kids, we had a pretty busy house, but we still found ourselves with that pull,” Nicole says, adding the couple originally planned to adopt, but decided to become a foster family after learning of the great need for foster care.

The McCallions had just gotten licensed in 2012 through Lake County Department of Job and Family Services when they learned about James, their first foster child and now their adopted son.

Between Down syndrome and neglect, 2-year-old Jay, as the family calls him, was very behind physically, mentally and socially.

“He had been in a very good foster home, but due to his high level of needs and the foster mom’s full-time work schedule and other children, she decided it would be in his best interest if the agency looked for another family that could meet his needs,” Nicole says.

Though she had experience with kids with special needs, Down syndrome was unfamiliar territory for Nicole. Between

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online resources and local support, she began the learning process.

The McCallions’ children welcomed Jay as if it were the most natural thing in the world, according to Nicole.

Jay, now 4, is still a bit behind but is making progress. “We just take it one day at a time,” Nicole says. “Every little thing is a victory. Recently he learned to put on his own shirt. It was a big deal.”

The Medina Family A few years ago, Kate and Jose Medina of North Canton felt pulled toward adoption through their faith.

She adds the couple particularly felt called to international adoption.

together we celebrate Ethiopian holidays and the beautiful culture. We watch a lot of videos about the country and listen to the music, as well as keep a lot of Ethiopian food in the house.”

Kate encourages those interested in adoption to seek support from an agency and other families who have adopted, adding, “No adoption is without bumps in the road as far as paperwork hassles and timeline setbacks, cultural differences and communication issues. You just have to sit back and trust things will work out.”

With two daughters, ages 9 and 7 at that time, the Medinas decided to adopt an older child. After a little research, Ethiopia seemed to fit the couple’s needs.

“The more we learned about Ethiopia, the vast amount of orphans there broke our hearts,” Kate says.

Working through Cleveland’s Bellefaire JCB, Kate and Jose welcomed Zavier, then age 6, into their home in 2012. He fit in so well with their family that they decided to adopt from Ethiopia again earlier this year, welcoming home Leona, who was 5 at the time.

“We can’t even comprehend how different life is here in America from what they know,” Kate says. “Zavier’s transition was seamless; however it was hysterical to watch him react to things we do and see every day — an escalator, sliding doors or a tub of popcorn at a movie theater. It was neat to see the world through his eyes.

“Leona was different,” she says. “It seemed like nothing wowed her, which may have been because she was younger. She goes along with everything and jumps in after watching what her peers or siblings do.”

The Medinas, who believe it’s important for Zavier and Leona to know where they came from, make an effort to keep a connection to Ethiopian culture.

“We get together often with other families that have adopted from Ethiopia,” Kate says.

“We have several friends from Ethiopia who have retained the Amharic language and Family Living At Its Best

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Adopt America Network 1500 N. Superior St., Suite 303 Toledo, OH 43215 419-534-3350, adoptamericanetwork.org Adoption Center at Bellefaire JCB One Pollock Circle, 22001 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44118 216-216-932-2800 or 800-205-8534, bellefairejcb.org Adoption Circle 20525 Center Ridge Road, Suite 608 Rocky River, OH 44146 216-464-7299, adoptioncircle.org Adoption by Gentle Care 370 S. Fifth St., Suite 2 Columbus, OH 43215-5433 614-469-0007, adoptionbygentlecare.org Adoption Health Service - Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital 216-844-5437, uhhospitals.org

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Adoption HomeStudy Services of Ohio 358 Edna St., Alliance, OH 44601 330-829-9400, homestudyohio.com Adoption Network Cleveland 4614 Prospect Ave., Suite 550 Cleveland, OH 44103 216-325-1000, adoptionnetwork.org Applewood Centers Cuyahoga County: 216-696-5800 Lorain County: 440-324-1300 applewoodcenters.org Attachment & Bonding Center of Ohio 12608 State Road, Suite 1 Cleveland, OH 44133 440-230-1960, abcofohio.net The Bair Foundation of Cleveland 26401 Emery Road Warrensville Heights, OH 44128 216-595-6916 or 888-420-1133, bair.org

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The Bair Foundation of Kent 275 Martinel Drive Kent, OH 44240 330-673-6339 or 800-543-7037 bair.org Beech Brook 3737 Lander Road, Cleveland, OH 44124 216-831-2255, beechbrook.org Brightside Adoption Connection, LLC 1544 Timber Trail Hudson, OH 44236 330-618-9406, brightsideadoption.com Building Blocks Adoption Service, Inc. 52 Public Square Medina, OH 44256 330-725-5521, bbas.org Caring For Kids, Inc 650 Graham Road Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221 330-928-4404, cfkadopt.org

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Catholic Charities Diocese of Cleveland- Adoption and Foster Care Serves Cuyahoga, Lake, Lorain, Medina Wayne, Ashland and Summit counties.

7911 Detroit Ave. Cleveland, OH 44102 216-334-2900 for general assistance ccdocle.org Catholic Charities Family Center of Elyria 628 Poplar St. Elyria, OH 44035 440-366-1106, ccdocle.org Cleveland Christian Home 1400 W. 25th St., 2nd Floor Cleveland, OH 44113 216-671-0977, cchome.org

Forever Home Adoptions, Inc. 7346 W. Cross Creek Trail Brecksville, OH 44141 440-382-9843 foreverhomeadoptions.com

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Kids Count Too, Inc. Foster Care & Adoption Agency 1616 E. Wooster St., Unit #3 Bowling Green, OH 43402 419-354-5437, kidscounttoo.com Lake County Department of Job & Family Services 105 Main St., Painesville, OH 44077 440-350-4000, lakecountyohio.org/jfs Loving Choice Adoption and Parenting Services 625 Cleveland Ave. NW Canton, OH 44702 330-994-1451, lovingchoice.org

European Adoption Consultants 12608 Alameda Drive Strongsville, OH 44149 1-866-586-5656, eaci.com Family Adoption Consultants 705 Oakwood St., Suite 208 Ravenna, OH 44266 330-296-2757, facadopt.org

Greenleaf Family Center 580 Grant St., Akron, OH 44311 330-376-9494, greenleafctr.org

Lutheran Family Services 4100 Franklin Blvd.

Cleveland, OH 44113 216-281-2500, lfsohio.org Medina County Job and Family Services 232 Northland Drive Medina, OH 44256 330-661-0808, mcjfs.us Northeast Ohio Adoption Services 5000 E. Market St, Suite 26 Warren, OH 44484 800-686-6627, ext.126, noas.com

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The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services Office of Families and Children 4200 E. Fifth Ave., 2nd Floor P.O. Box 183204 Columbus, OH 43219 866-886-3537, option 4 adoptionphotolistingohio.org Options for Families and Youth 5131 W. 140th St., Brook Park, OH 44142 216-267-7070, ofycares.org OhioGuidestone 202 E. Bagley Road Berea, OH 44017 440-234-2006, ohioguidestone.org Pathway Caring for Children 4895 Dressler Road N.W., Suite A Canton, OH 44718 330-493-0083, pathwaycfc.org Summit County Children Services 264 S. Arlington St., Akron, OH 44306 330-379-9094, summitkids.org The Twelve of Ohio Inc. 619 Tremont Ave. SW Massillon, OH 44647 888-513-8706, the12inc.org The Village Network 3011 Akron Road Wooster, OH 44691 330-202-3800, thevillagenetwork.org

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A gift guide to help you figure out what to get the kids in your life this season.

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Here are some of the 2014 Toy List Highlights:

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Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Chair.

- Birth to 2 years. $40, fisher-price.com Disney “Frozen” Snow Glow Elsa Toddler Doll.

- 3 to 5 years. $34.99, target.com Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 11 inch two pack interactive figures — Donatello and Michaelangelo.

- 3 to 5 years. $59.99, toysrus.com

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Skylanders Trap Team Dark Edition Starter Pack - 6 to 8 years. $99.99, gamestop.com Ever After High Thronecoming Dolls – Mattel - 6 to 8 years. $24.99, shop.mattel.com LEGO Star Wars The Ghost - 9 and older. $83, walmart.com Fashion Angels It's My Biz Ultimate Business Guide - 9 and older. $17.99, toysrus.com NortheastOhioParent.com

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The holiday shopping season is almost upon us. Many parents might be wondering what are some of the gifts that will likely appear on the lists we receive — or not.

The Toy Insider, the Adventure Publishing Group, which is a panel of toy experts and publisher of toy industry magazines, provides a list of toys that will be hitting and then quickly leaving the shelves this season.

“Favorite characters, engaging play patterns and terrific tech toys are key trends this holiday season,” says Laurie Schacht, Toy Insider mom.

However, they are not the only ones providing a list, Toys R US, Target and Walmart are among other retailers touting gifts to grab.

6 5 7 Editor’s Picks

Transformers Age of Extinction Chomp and Stomp Grimlock Figure - Boys ages 6 to 8. $69.99, toysrus.com

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LEGO Friends Dolphin Cruiser - Girls ages 6 to 8. $59.99, target.com

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November 2014

Hedbanz Game - Ages 7 to 11. $14.99, toysrus.com

Sequence For Kids - Ages 4 to 6 $11.96, amazon.com

“The Twelve Days of Christmas in Ohio” by Carole Gerber, illustrated by Jeffrey Ebbeler Ages 5 and older $12.95, sterlingpublishing.com

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The Toy Insider's Top Techs Playmatters Picks Recommended by Playmatters Owner Michael Ziegenhagen.

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Tween and Teen Gift Picks Pretend Play: Doorway Puppet Theater by Haba Enter the magical world of puppet theatre through this doorway transformer! So get your tickets, and let the show begin! From HABA USA for ages 1-1/2 to 6 yrs. $49.99

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Kindle Fire HD 3rd Gen. — $139, Toysrus.com SKLZ Pro Mini Basketball Hoop — $34.99, Toysrus.com Insound and HoodieBuddy Pullovers — these will keep your teens warm and get them plugged into their favorite music.

Gift Cards — such as Amazon, Gamestop, iTunes, fast food restaurants.

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Crayola Virtual Design Pro Fashion Collection - Crayola. $29.99, target.com InnoTab Max - VTech. $109, vtechkids.com Kidizoom Smartwatch - VTech. $59.99, vtechkids.com

Xtreme - Techno Source.

4 Kurio $19.99, toysrus.com - LeapFrog. $39.99, 5 LeapBand leapfrog.com

Speakers for Teens

A Gift for Mom

Science: Snap Circuits Motion If you have a budding physicist, scientist, electrician or tinkerer, chances are they’ve wondered about the effect of electronics on motion. From Elenco Electronics Inc. for ages 8 to 12 yrs. $79.99 Water Dancing Speakers x3 Recommendation from Smartickles Educational toy store $59.00 986 Medina Road (Rt. 18), Medina Family Living At Its Best

Thirty-One Lunch Bag Thirty-One Gifts, 330-265-9354

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Though it may seem the high-demand gift items this season require batteries and a level of tech savvy, there are many great options that let you encourage the kids on your list to get back to basics and unplug.

According to research by Common Sense Media, kids age 8 and younger spend nearly two hours of every day on screen time — that is, using a tablet, computer or mobile device, watching TV, etc. While some of that usage is dedicated to educational games and content, the prevalence of media use among kids is distracting them from one of childhood’s greatest gifts — the freedom to let their imaginations soar.

Kids whose imaginative play is fostered and supported show numerous health and developmental advantages, ranging from increased levels of fitness and coordination to higher self-esteem and an improved ability to apply the information they learn.

This holiday season, look for gifts that inspire kids to embrace pretend play.

Blocks It doesn’t get much more basic than building blocks when it comes to setting the imagination free. Small and mid-sized plastic pieces let kids create miniature versions of nearly anything their minds can conjure. On the flip side, jumbo cardboard blocks let children create environments they can physically engage with, such as lifesize playhouses.

Figurines There are many figurines and customizable accessories and environments available to tickle kids’ imaginations. From auto service stations and race tracks to dollhouses and pet boutiques, little ones can explore and create for hours.

Dress Up Whether you assemble a collection of whimsical treasures from thrift shops or rely on the costumes and sets available at retail stores, clothing that allows a child to adopt a new persona is an instant way to encourage the imagination.

Books Good old-fashioned books help expose kids to new worlds. Chooseyour-own-adventure books, in which

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the reader helps direct the flow of the story line, are a great choice for engaging kids directly as they imagine their way through the story line.

Crafting Sets From create-your-own jewelry to color-to-complete playhouses and spaceships, crafty gifts let kids explore their artistic side and experiment with creating tangible representations of their imagination.

Toys and games that encourage pretend play let kids create, explore and imagine in a stress-free environment where they set the rules and boundaries. These gifts, which encourage kids to unplug and embrace a whole new world of wholesome play, are the kind you can feel truly great about giving.

Article courtesy of Family Features and calicocritters.com.

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1 Landmark skyscraper is home to shopping, hotels, dining, movie theaters and an amphitheater.

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230 W. Huron Road, Cleveland, towercitycenter.com

3 Dining, entertainment and specialty shopping with everything from men’s and women’s apparel to sporting goods takes place at this east side of Cleveland attraction.

2533 Cedar Road, Lyndhurst, legacy-village.com

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Shop indoors with the variety dining and specialty stores including The LEGO Store and popular designer apparel and accessories shops like Michael Kors.

28601 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere, etonchagrinblvd.com

26300 Cedar Road, Beachwood, beachwoodplace.com

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Single-level shopping mall with retail and dining options and events, such as Family Fun Days, on the first Thursday of each month.

A historic shopping site including an enclosed mall, outparcels, strip, which has known retail stores and dining.

4954 Great Northern Blvd., North Olmsted, shoppinggreatnorthernmall. com

7899 W. Ridgewood Drive, Parma, Facebook.com/ ShoppesAtParma

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The shopping destination that feels like “its own city inside a city” on the west side that has well-known retail shops, events, classes, restaurants and luxury apartments.

189 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake, crockerpark.com

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Dine or shop at boutiques, market at Trader’s Joe or buy the latest iPhone trend at the Apple Store.

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Climate-controlled indoor mall and home to more than 120 specialty shops, Simon Kidgits Club and exciting dining options.

7850 Mentor Ave., Mentor, simon.com/mall/ great-lakes-mall

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Two-level indoor mall with specialty retail, dining and a mini golf course. Have your kids take a break from shopping at the mall’s colorful family play space.

Indoor mall is convenient to Summit, Portage, Medina and Cuyahoga counties. The mall boasts over 125 specialty shops and has dining and shopping options.

500 Southpark Center, Strongsville, shoppingsouthparkmall.com

3265 W. Market St., Fairlawn, simon.com/mall/ summit-mall

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11 Shopping mall with more than 70 factory outlet stores featuring brand-name bargains.

549 S. Chillicothe Road, Aurorapremiumoutlets.com/ aurora

15 Hosts 85 unique businesses, creating a perfect blend of local boutiques, national retailers and restaurants.

Routes 303 and 91, Hudson, merchantsofhudson.com or firstandmainhudson.com

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12 Year-round shopping market for unique gifts, collectables and homemade products, flea market items and fresh foods.

1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, hartvillemarketplace.com

16 This Cleveland landmark has something for everyone with unique gift shops, services, clothing boutiques, a food court and fine dining.

401 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, theclevelandarcade.com

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Turn-of-the-century outlet mall featuring over 60 stores. The outlet mall boasts two custom-made classic trains, which have regular rides throughout the week.

Turn a trip to this historic shopping district into a family tradition. Find a range of boutiques and specialty shops.

9911 Avon Lake Road, Burbank, lodistation.com

N. Main St., Chagrin Falls, yourhometown chagrinfalls.com

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17 It has a lively mix of businesses and pedestrianfriendly design. It serves as the neighborhood nucleus to residents and visitors who come to shop, dine and play.

The outdoor shopping center features a mix of nearly 200 shopping, dining and entertainment venues.

13220 Shaker Square, Cleveland, shakersquare.net NortheastOhioParent.com

160 Easton Town Center Columbus, eastontowncenter.com

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Tips for Hassle-Free

HOLIDAY SHOPPING Looking to take the stress out of your holiday shopping this season?

Planning ahead and taking steps to protect yourself and your purchases can relieve a lot of shopping-induced stress, according to Jeff Unterreiner, a senior vice president with Assurant Solutions.

Our endless shopping lists, along with preparations to make this season memorable for all family members can weigh heavily on everyone’s minds.

“While it’s easy to get overwhelmed by holiday shopping, the good news is that it only takes a few basic steps to make the process easier on your pocketbook and your peace of mind,” Unterreiner says.

He offers these tips to help ensure your shopping this Christmas season is hassle-free: Budget Planning The easiest way to overspend is to approach your shopping without a budget. Make sure the gifts on your list fit within your means. A smart strategy is to leave yourself a little padding to accommodate potential budget-busting treasures you discover along the way.

Decide what you’re willing to spend on all holiday-related items, including travel, decorations and holiday meals.

A budget will keep you disciplined and ensure you have enough money to pay your bills come January.

Shop Early Start your shopping well ahead of Christmas to spare yourself the headache of unending lines and sold out shelves. Doing so can also help you save money. Starting earlier will give you more time to look for sales and promotions. When it comes to larger purchases, be sure you know the return policy and keep an eye on sales even after you buy. If the item is offered for a lower price within a certain timeframe, you may be able to get the difference refunded.

Reward Programs Take advantage of the many reward cards and incentive programs that let you earn cash back, goods and discounts.

The holiday season is a great time to sign up, as many

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retailers offer bonus programs and extra perks for shoppers.

In some cases, those rewards can be used immediately to trim your shopping budget or find something nice for yourself as a reward for being a savvy shopper.

Protect Purchases Many of the most-wanted gifts this season, like electronics and jewelry, are also the easiest to break or lose. Ensure your gifts keep giving long into the future by protecting your

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Tips for Hassle-Free HOLIDAY SHOPPING purchases with extended service plans. These plans offer a range of protection from things like mechanical breakdown, accidental damage, loss and theft, as well as services such as tech support. And this protection can last long after the

manufacturer’s warranty expires.

Beat Fraud The frenzy of the Christmas season can make you vulnerable to theft. Be sure you’re using a debit or credit card that offers protection in the event of unauthorized purchases. If you don’t already, now is also an ideal time to pay closer attention to your transaction log so you can quickly address any unfamiliar charges.

Focus your gift giving on what the person will like the most, not on the amount you think you should spend on that person. The best gift might not be the most expensive one; it’s truly the thought that counts.

Article courtesy of Family Features. For more ideas to help take the stress out of holiday shopping, visit consumerview.assurantsolutions.com.

Also, visit NortheastOhioParent.com for more tips and advice on seasonal parties, shopping and more!

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Sponsored Content

SHOP HUDSON FOR THE HOLIDAYS Nestled along Routes 303 and 91 in northern Summit County, the historic and charming town of Hudson offers residents and guests alike the chance to enjoy all things holidays at a more relaxed pace.

This picture-perfect town hosts more than 80 unique businesses, creating the perfect blend of local boutiques and national retailers, award-winning restaurants and a variety of services that cater to every whim this holiday season and beyond.

From The Learned Owl Book Shop and Epiphany to Nicky Nicole and My Little Red Wagon, the gift-giving options are endless and are sure to please everyone on your holiday list.

For those looking to spruce up their home before the holidays, The Greenhouse, MOD and Interiors Inc. offer a wide array of floral, home dĂŠcor and furnishings to complete the perfect holiday gathering spot.

Customer service is next to none as shopkeepers go the extra mile to make sure you find what you need and help to take the stress out of the holidays.

Hudson also offers a variety of opportunities to make holiday memories with your loved ones during the wide variety of special events throughout the holiday season.

Starting with the Come Home to Hudson event Friday, Nov. 28, Hudson magically transforms as luminaries are lit, Santa arrives on the historic Bandstand Green and the trees are illuminated as carolers rejoice the season. Merchants are open late and

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offer holiday cheer along with special promotions all weekend long.

Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride as the festivities continue the following weekend with the annual Hudson Holiday Walk on Sunday, Dec. 7. Santa and his elves make appearances at local businesses while a live nativity is staged on the Clocktower Green beneath the iconic Christmas Mouse. Guests enjoy caroling, hot cocoa and live reindeer around the First & Main Green.

All of the shopping and fun can easily work up an appetite and with restaurant options ranging from fast casual to fine dining, your taste buds will be more than satisfied. Hudson is

a popular dining destination and offers some of the area’s most inventive local and regional flair.

This holiday season, make memories that will last a lifetime and share in the experience of Hudson and all it has to offer.

Visit merchantsofhudson.com or firstandmainhudson.com for a complete list of shops, restaurants and holiday events.

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This city is home to vibrant businesses, scenic parks and recreation areas, top-notch restaurants and shopping, as well as a highly rated public school system.

Here are a few of the other highlights the city has to offer.

Activities The Westlake Recreation Center, which has more than 900 programs for children and adults, is located on an 86-acre park and includes a five-acre lake stocked with fish, five pools and a sledding hill. A 1.2-mile walking, running, rollerblading track winds the grounds.

If you’re more of a bookworm, “Westlake Porter Library is awesome,” says one Westlake mom. “It has impressive collections and a wonderful array of services. Westlake is incredibly lucky to have it.”

The award-winning library is located at 27333 Center Ridge Road, and includes the Book Nook used book store, gift shop and reading garden. It also has Pulleys at Porter, a café inside the library serving sandwiches and drinks. It’s run by Solutions at Work Inc., a nonprofit organization that employs individuals with developmental disabilities in conjunction with the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities’ training programs.

Another city staple is the Clague Playhouse at 1371 Clague Road, a comedy, drama and musical theater in a intimate 93-seat auditorium, housed in the former barn of the Clague estate. The playhouse presents five plays per season, with performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons.

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And families won’t want to miss Sky Zone, an indoor trampoline park at 31500 Viking Parkway.

“This place is amazing. The music keeps everyone motivated to exercise and workout. Kids love it, adults love it — it really is friendly for all ages,” says a Cleveland mom.

And the residents say you can’t beat the city’s central location.

“We have I-90 just to the north that easily gets us to downtown Cleveland, Cedar Point or our favorite, Put In Bay,” says a Westlake mom. “Just to our south is I-480 that takes us to the Cleveland Zoo and all places south.”

Tasty Eats In addition to excellent national restaurants such as The Cheesecake Factory, Brio Tuscan Grille, Dave & Buster’s and Buca di Beppo, Westlake is home to many locally owned eateries.

Area highlights include Michael Symon’s B Spot, Si Señor Mexican Restaurant, Stonehouse Grill, Pizza by Robert and White Oaks Restaurant.

Fun places to grab a drink with friends include Ironwood Café, Bar Louie and Moosehead Saloon.

The Great Outdoors “The city is completely connected by sidewalks,” says a Westlake dad. “So it’s safe to walk anywhere.”

Bradley Nature Park is a 46-acre park located on Bradley Road bordering the Cleveland Metroparks’ Bradley Woods Reservation. The park features a sledding hill, a tot

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Distance From: Akron — 51 miles, 52 minutes Cleveland — 14 miles, 19 minutes Lakewood — 9 miles, 17 minutes Solon — 30 miles, 36 minutes

CALENDAR OF EVENTS November 22 — Crocker Park’s Annual Tree Lighting May 25 — Memorial Day Parade July 4 — Annual Parade and Festivities at Clague Park and Liberty Fest at Crocker Park

playground, a pavilion, picnic tables and grills, a nature trail and restroom facilities.

Clague Park is located at the corner of Clague Road and Hilliard Boulevard, and across the street from historic site The Clague Family Homestead and Museum. The park has plenty to offer including: seven ball diamonds, Peterson Pool, Clague Cabin, walking trails, a duck pond, playgrounds, picnic areas and tennis courts. Clague Park also hosts the city’s 4th of July fireworks display.

Shopping In Westlake, shopping has been raised to an art form.

Crocker Park is a 75-acre retail center with restaurants, an IMAX movie theater and more. Kids can play chess with giant game pieces, and year-long events are scheduled, including a farmer’s market, movies, concerts and fitness in the park.

Specialty stores throughout the city include Oliver & Henry’s Dog Shop (oliverandhenrys.com).

Find everything you need for your next clambake at Lobster Brothers (lobsterbrothers.com).

Knuth’s Boutique at Jefferson Square, 26141 Detroit Road, offers “high-end and affordable fashions from around the world.” It’s a great spot for hand-picked, up-to-the-minute styles, and personalized attention. Cara’s Boutique at the The Promenade, 30179 Detroit Road, provides a large selection of Pandora jewelry, Family Living At Its Best

Brighton and Vera Bradley accessories.

Learning Express, also at The Promenade, 30061 Detroit Road, features toy experts who are “passionate about play.”

They provide toy suggestions for children of all ages, and are a great help in finding the perfect toy for every occasion.

Education Westlake City Schools consist of three K-4 elementary schools, a PK-4 elementary school, an intermediate school for grades 5 and 6, a 7-8 middle school and the high school.

“We are on the receiving end of great teachers,” says a Westlake mom, whose son has Asperger’s, ADHD and a learning disability. “We have had absolutely involved and passionate teachers who are great at communication and looking out for his next steps.”

Residents also recommend Best Beginnings Preschool and Westshore Montessori School.

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American Greetings Comes to Westlake Westlake will become the world headquarters for American Greetings Corporation LLC with a new 665,000square-foot building located at Crocker Park. American Greetings held a ribbon-cutting ceremony August 27 that was attended by over 2,000 people.

Music, presentations and plenty of food were enjoyed by all who attended.

Courtesy of the West Shore Chamber of Commerce, 440-835-8787, westshorechamber.org West Shore Chamber Networking The West Shore Chamber, which includes Westlake, Bay Village and several surrounding communities, is proud to be a member of the Power of More, one of the largest networking organizations in Northeast Ohio.

The six chambers included in the Power of More are Fairview Park, North Coast, North Olmsted, North Ridgeville, Olmsted and West Shore, and comprises over 1,600 businesses.

These members have the opportunity to network at four to six monthly lunches and business after hours.

Susan Uranker, president of the West

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Shore Chamber, says one of the things that attracted her and her husband to Westlake is that it offers the perfect blend of business and residential.

Courtesy of the West Shore Chamber of Commerce, 440-835-8787, westshorechamber.org Nationally Recognized Library Andrew Mangels, executive director of the Westlake Porter Public Library, announced the Westlake library system has been nationally recognized as one the top libraries in the country.

Courtesy of the West Shore Chamber of Commerce, 440-835-8787, westshorechamber.org Connecting for Kids The non-profit organization provides education and support for families with questions or concerns about their child’s development.

The group serves children ages 0-12,

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including those with and without a formal diagnosis such as ADHD or an autism spectrum disorder. Programs are also offered for children who may be described as shy, anxious, impulsive or quick to anger.

The organization’s free programs are held at Westlake Porter Public Library.

No-cost child care is available to those who register. For more details on Connecting for Kids or to register for programs, visit connectingforkids.org, 440-250-5563 or email info@connectingforkids.org.

Westlake Historical Society ‘Opoly Game Project’ The Westlake Historical Society is putting together a Westlake Opoly Game Project.

The customized game will feature a variety of Westlake’s historic places, people and businesses, along with unique game pieces. Spaces on the board are still available. Businesses, churches, community groups and families are all welcome. Contact Dave at the Westlake Historical Society by phone 440-808-1961 to reserve your space or visit westlakeohiohistory.org.

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Westlake Mayor Dennis Clough says the city is a good quality of life location with a good vision and plan for itself.

“The low taxes, great school systems, library is nationally ranked, high-quality services, like police and fire, makes it a very good environment to raise a family,” he says.

The city, close to two major freeways, along with the airport and shopping, is continuing to develop new economic choices for community members and visitors.

For example, American Greetings Corporation announced this March the relocation of its world headquarters to Crocker Park. The new construction will include more than 300 rental apartments, a hotel and over 220,000 square feet of retail and restaurants, according to a release by American Greetings. Construction began in September with an anticipated move-in date for spring 2016.

“It has lots to do with (the city’s) environment,” Clough says about why businesses come to Westlake.

“We have retail diversity and a number of good restaurants,” he adds.

Family Living At Its Best

The city also focuses on small businesses such as Title Boxing Club and franchise operations like Jersey Mike’s, which opened this year, that move into town.

The city also boasts several community groups.

Organizations such as Westlake Kiwanis Club, The Westlake Early Childhood PTA and Westlake Women's Club provide services and help to residents.

Clough says the city’s parks and recreation is another reason to come to Westlake. In fact, the city is known for its Westlake Recreation Center, which was one of the first centers in the Northeast Ohio area.

Located near the police station, parents can have their children participate in the popular Safety Town in which prekindergarten children practice safety skills on the “childsize” city on the property.

Clough notes there are several activities that go on yearly in the city including Westlake in Bloom, a competition among residents, organizations and businesses in the community competing in categories ranging from window boxes to residential landscaping.

“People in every segment in the community participate,” Clough says. It exemplifies the pride (residents have for) this community.”

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November CALENDAR OF EVENTS

America Recycles Day November 15 America Recycles Day, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The zoo celebrates America Recycles Day with special activities to raise awareness of “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.” The zoo will also be accepting many items for recycling on Nov. 15; see website for details. Follow the signs and drive to the collection area behind The RainForest. Staff will be on hand to assist you. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, 216-661-6500, clevelandmetroparks.com

November 1 LEGO NXT Brick-or-Treat LEGO Workshop, 1-3 p.m. Parents and kids ages 9+ learn the basics of robotics together using LEGO Mindstorm NXT kits. Build your own creepy, crawly creation and program it to trick, treat or scare.

Includes general admission to GLSC. $35 per adult/child pair ($15 members). Call 216-621-2400 or register online. Great Lakes Science Center, 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, greatscience.com

November 1-2 Aussie professional photographer Luke Ballard is teaching five fun interactive photography workshops, one weekend only in Cleveland in a 40-city tour

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“Photographing America.” All ages welcome. Saturday: Love Your Camera Intro to DSLR, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; Travel Photography, 2-6 p.m.; Night Photography, 8-11 p.m.; Sunday; People and Family photography, 9 a.m.-1 p.m; Advanced Travel, 2-6 p.m. remember forever.co/america or 646-736-3231.

November 4

November 8

Coffee and Chat, 7 p.m. Meeting the Needs of Siblings When One Child in the Family Struggles. Child care available, RSVP required.

Westlake Porter Public Library, Porter Room Connecting for Kids, For more details on Connecting for Kids or to register for programs, visit connectingforkids.org, 440-250-5563 or info@connectingforkids.org.

Practical Parenting: Parenting Panel, 10-11:30 a.m. Are you a young parent trying to figure things out? Join for a seven-part series to find out about the services and resources available to you and your family. Each session will focus on a different issue that young families face. Meet and socialize with other young parents.

Registration required. Garfield Heights Branch Library, 5409 Turney Road, Garfield Heights, 216-475-8178, cuyahogalibrary.org

November 4-16 Disney’s “Newsies” They delivered the papers, until they made the headlines. It’s a high-energy Broadway musical. Connor Palace (formerly Palace Theatre), 1501 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-2416000, playhousesquare.org

November 6 Fun with Zentangle Inspired-Art, 7-8:30 p.m. Zentangle is an easyto-learn and relaxing method of creating beautiful images from repetitive patterns. Novice and advanced Tanglers, bring your current Zentangle-inspired art. Grades 4 and up (adults welcome too.)

Parma-Snow Branch Library, 2121 Snow Road, Parma, 216-6614240, cuyahogalibrary.org

November 6 and 20 November 2 Nature Drawing For Kids, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2-3:30 p.m. Ages 6-12 join a naturalist-artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided.

Advance registration is required.

Call 330-865-8065. Summit County Metro Parks, Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron, summitmetroparks.org

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Minecraft Club 4 p.m. Each session will feature a new challenge.

Kids must bring their own charged laptop, tablet or mobile device and have an active Minecraft account.

The club is for children from ages 8 to 12. Registration is required 8215 Mentor Ave, Mentor, mentorpl.org

Frozen Fest, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Do you want to build a snowman or sing along to the songs or make a snowy snack? Don’t miss this event inspired by the popular Disney film. Register in advance.

Green Branch Library, 4046 Massillon Road, Uniontown, 330-896-9074, greenbranch.akronlibrary.org Kids Studio Class: Junk to Treasure, 1-3 p.m. Guided by local artists, students create with unique materials, experiential techniques and processes, and mind-opening concepts. Guest Artist/Instructor Dillon Sedar. Cost per class is $10/member child, $15/nonmember child. For kids 7-12 (adults welcome to join or go off-site).

Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron, 330-376-9185, akronartmuseum.org Fall Family Book Walk, 1-3 p.m.

Enjoy a story with your family while walking along the Cherry Lane and Fernwood trails.

Afterward, stop by the campfire for

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some hot chocolate and a treat, while supplies last. Good for spree credit. Call 330-865-8065. Summit County Metro Parks, Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron, summitmetroparks.org Glow Party, 3-4 p.m. Create fairies in a jar, make a glow-in-the-dark bandanna, participate in a glowing ring toss and even enjoy some glow-in-the-dark treats. Call the Teen Department to register. Main Library, 60 S. High St., Akron, 330-643-9000, akronlibrary.org/mainlib.html

along. Call 330-865-8065. Summit County Metro Parks, Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron, summitmetroparks.org School House Rock Live Jr., 2:30 p.m. The Emmy Award-winning 1970s Saturday morning cartoon series is not only making a smallscreen comeback but instructing a whole new generation on how to “Unpack Your Adjectives” and “Do The Circulations.” Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron, 330-253-2488, akroncivic.com

November 10 Date Night, 4-9 p.m. Calling kids ages 3-10 for a fun night out.

Swimming, games, crafts and a movie. Dinner and a snack will be served. Register. Lake Anna YMCA, 500 W. Hopocan Ave., Barberton, 330-745-9622

November 9 Behind the Scenes: Animal Care, 1-2:30 p.m. Assist a naturalist with care for a toad, spotted salamander, garter snake and aquarium fish. Become knowledgeable about each animal’s natural behavior and habitat. Ages: 7 and over. Register.

Free. West Creek Reservation, Watershed Stewardship Center at West Creek, 2277 West Ridgewood Drive, Parma, 440-887-1968, clevelandmetroparks.com/wsc Children’s Songs and Stories with Sam Sapp, 2-3:30 p.m. Children of all ages will enjoy the animal and nature songs by singer/songwriter Sam Sapp. Meet some animals, and maybe one of them will sing

Family Living At Its Best

Writing Contest for Children and Teens, 10 a.m. During November, pick up a contest form at the branch to enter into the contest.

Write a story or poem about an animal. Entries must be turned in

by Nov. 30. Entries will be judged by library staff and five prizes will be awarded: one for grades K-1, grades 2-3, grades 4-6, grades 78 and grades 9-12. Goodyear Branch Library, 60 Goodyear Blvd., Akron, 330-784-7522, goodyearbranch.akronlibrary.org 24th March of Dimes Annual Cleveland Signature Chefs Auction 5:30- 9 p.m. A fundraising event featuring 35-40 chefs serving their signature dishes while guests bid on live and silent auction items. All proceeds benefit the March of Dimes. Event held at Windows on the River, 2000 Sycamore Street, Cleveland For questions call 216-503-8420 or lmeadows@marchofdimes.org marchofdimes.org/ohio

Glassworks, 6 p.m. Try your hand at glass etching and glass painting.

For grades 6-12. Call 330-6664888 or stop by to register for this program. Fairlawn-Bath Branch Library, 3101 Smith Road, Akron, fairlawnbathbranch.akronlibrary.org

November 11 It’s Just Elementary/K-4th grade, 3:15 p.m. Enjoy this science-based program. Wickliffe Public Library, 1713 Lincoln Road, Wickliffe, 440944-6010, wickliffe.lib.oh.us

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NOVEMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS King Tut Day, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Grades 2-5: Explore the culture of Egypt, make your name in hieroglyphics, make a pharaoh headdress and learn how to make and decipher a secret code.

Registration required. Maple Heights Branch Library, 5225 Library Lane, Maple Heights, 216475-5000, cuyahogalibrary.org

November 12 Tech Timeout Academic Challenge, 7-8:30 p.m. Watch two short movies and participate in a discussion about the impact of over-reliance on technology. Prior to the event, some students will be challenged to take a voluntary “Tech Timeout” for a few days, and will be on hand to talk about their experience. Join for this thoughtprovoking event. Free, but reservations are required. The Lippman

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School-Shaw JCC Auditorium, 750 White Pond Dr., Akron, 330-8360419, thelippmanschool.org Mockingjay Mania, 7-8 p.m.

Celebrate the release of the latest “Hunger Games” movie with trivia, activities and a few challenges.

Grades 6-12. Registration requested. Berea Branch Library, 7 Berea Commons, Berea, 440-2345475, cuyahogalibrary.org

November 13 Hibernation, Migration and Adaptation, 10-11:30 a.m. Hike the trails looking for signs of animals hibernating, migrating and adapting to prepare for the upcoming winter season. Free. Terrain: some hills, 1 mile. Huntington Reservation, Lake Road, Bay Village, 440-734-6660, clevelandmetroparks.com

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Farmpark Toy Workshop November 28-30 11 a.m.- 3 p.m For ages 2-11 at Lake Metroparks Farmpark Children select wooden toy and with the help of elves from Santa’s workshop, put together and then paint and glitter their new toy. 800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-256-2122, lakemetroparks.com Write It Out, 4-5 p.m. Teens can write creative, horror, poetry, even crazy stories. Writing exercises focus on different aspects each session. Fairview Park Branch Library, 21255 Lorain Road,

Fairview Park 44126, 440-3334700, cuyahogalibrary.org

November 14 Visitor Appreciation Weekend, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. This weekend the

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parks are celebrating veterans. On Friday only, the first 50 military service veterans receive free “Made in the USA” giveaways. Call 330-865-8065. Summit County Metro Parks, Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron, summitmetroparks.org Friday Family Fun: Happy Birthday Mickey Mouse. 1:302:30 p.m. Hear stories, make crafts and celebrate everyone’s favorite mouse. Bring your favorite Disney stuffed animal to share in the celebration. Beachwood Branch Library, 25501 Shaker Blvd., Beachwood, 216-831-6868, cuyahogalibrary.org Friday Movie Matinees, 3:30-5 p.m., “Mr. Peabody and Sherman.”

Odom Branch Library, 600 Vernon Odom Blvd., Akron, 330-434-8726, akronlibrary.org Fresh Beat Band, 6:30 p.m. A live-

Family Living At Its Best

action preschool musical sitcom set to original pop songs with preschool-friendly lyrics. All songs embody an upbeat, contemporary format with preschool-friendly lyrics that the whole family will enjoy. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron, 330-253-2488, akroncivic.com

November 14 - December 21 The Polar Express departs from Rockside Station in Independence and Northside Station in Akron at 7 p.m. for a two-hour round trip.

Matinees departing at 12 p.m. will be offered on Saturdays and Sundays in December. Tickets range from $44 to $85 per person.

Everyone age 2 and older requires a ticket. Under 2 are free, but must sit on an adult’s lap. CVSR.com

Members of the Great Lakes Youth Ballet will perform selections.

Register. North Royalton Branch Library, 5071 Wallings Road, North Royalton, 440-237-3800, cuyahogalibrary.org America Recycles Day Children’s Craft, 1-3 p.m. Join in hands-on crafts for children using recycled materials, and learn how to be “more green” in general as well as in your garden and landscape choices. Free with garden admission. Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216-721-1600, cbgarden.org Movie Matinee: “Rio 2,” 1-3 p.m.

Bring a snack and we’ll provide a drink. Maple Valley Branch Library, 1187 Copley Road, Akron, 330864-5721, akronlibrary.org

November 15 Great Lakes Youth Ballet presents “The Nutcracker,” 11 a.m.-noon

November 15-16 Avant-Garde Craft Show –

Featuring over 100 artists, the show has a wide selection of handmade items. Admission is $3 and children under 12 are free.

Rocky River Memorial Hall, 21016 Hilliard Blvd., Rocky River, avantgardeshows.com

November 16 “Wild Turkeys” Painting Class, 12:30 p.m. Kids can paint an original piece of art with step-by-step instruction provided. No experience is necessary. All materials are provided. Another kids class will be held Nov. 23; watch online for subject. Colorful Canvas, located on the second floor of the Garth Andrew Co. at Ira and ClevelandMassillon Roads in Bath, colorfulcanvasevents.com The Singing Angels - Holiday Spectacular, 2 p.m. Join over 250 of Northeast Ohio’s best and brightest as they sing their way

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NOVEMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS through songs to celebrate the season. Ticket prices: $17-42. Visit singingangels.org for more information. State Theatre, 1501 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-241-6000, playhousesquare.org

November 19 Little Explorers Story and Stroll, 1-2 p.m. Where do all of the animals go in the winter? Join for a story and a walk in the woods to find out. Free. Ages 2-5 years with adult. North Chagrin Nature Center, 3037 SOM Center Road, Willoughby Hills, 440-473-3370, clevelandmetroparks.com

required. Call 440-516-READ to register. Wickliffe Public Library, 1713 Lincoln Road, Wickliffe, wickliffe.lib.oh.us

their grown-ups. Free admission.

No registration required. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron, 330376-9185, akronartmuseum.org

Ballerina Stories, 7-7:30 p.m. Join a professional ballerina from Lakeshore DreamDance School for a story from “The Nutcracker,” as well as a chance to learn part of the classical “Sugar Plum Fairy” and “Mother Ginger” dances.

Registration required, beginning Nov. 12. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., Avon Lake, 440-933-8128, alpl.org

Movies@Main, 6-8 p.m.

“Maleficent.” Rated PG, 97 min.

Main Library, 60 S. High St., Akron, 330-643-9000, akronlibrary.org

November 20 Cupcake Bake-Off, 2:30 p.m.

Bring a dozen of your best homemade cupcakes to share, and find out if your batch is voted a favorite.

Grades 5 and up. Registration is

Story Time in the Galleries: Comic Heroes and Villains, 11:15 a.m.12:30 p.m. What qualities make someone a “super” hero? Art activity follows. All ages welcome with

November 21 Homeschool Art: Artist Detective, 11 a.m.-noon - Young artists (grades 1-5) will make art inspired

by Georges Seurat with JoAnn Depolo, and learn about his work and life. Space is limited and registration is required. Parma Branch Library, 6996 Powers Blvd., Parma,440-885-5362, cuyahogalibrary.org “Shrek The Musical,” 8 p.m. presented by The Beachwood Recreation Community Theater.

Tickets sold day of performance at Beachwood Middle School one hour prior to performance. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime.

Students/seniors $7, adults $8.

Beachwood Middle School Auditorium, beachwoodohio.com Mockingjay, Part 1 Release Party, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Grades 6-12 Watching “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” (PG-13) and enjoy trivia games and dystopian snacks.

Register. Firestone Park Branch Library, 1486 Aster Ave., Akron, 330-724-2126, akronlibrary.org

November 21-23 30th Medina Candlelight Walk – This annual holiday celebration includes: Friday, Lighting of the Luminaries, 4:30 p.m.; district lighting and kick-off of the Medina Holiday Season, 7p.m. Saturday, Holiday Parade of Lights, 5:30 p.m.; Santa arrives, 6:30 p.m.; Light up the Night Fireworks at 7 p.m. Sunday, visits with Santa 1-3 and 4-7 p.m. and more. Visit mainstreetmedina.com for details.

November 22 30th Anniversary Homespun Holiday Craft Show, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

More than 35 crafters, bake sale, homemade cabbage rolls and lunch is available all day. Free

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admission. St. George Romanian Orthodox Church, 144 30th St. NW, Canton First People Festival, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Free. Watch primitive skills demonstrations, learn about the tribes who lived here, take a hike in search of the natural foods and tools of indigenous people, and make a craft. Rocky River Nature Center, 24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted, 440-734-6660, clevelandmetroparks.com Mom Squad Holiday Celebration – 11 a.m. Prepare your hearts and homes for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Enjoy a meal, fellowship, prizes and shopping. Keynote speaker: Robin Swoboda, hosted

by Sara Carnes. $30. Visit 955thefish.com for details.

LaCentre 25777 Detroit Road, Westlake Wonka Birthday Party, 2-3:30 p.m.

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Ronald Dahl’s, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Make custom candy creations and design mini Wonka top hats. Mentor-on-theLake Branch Library, 5642 Andrews Road, Mentor-on-theLake, 440-257-2512, mentorpl.org

November 22 and 23 Dryland Sled Dog Challenge – Join mushers and their teams from the U.S. and Canada as they compete for the best time over a twomile course. Take time to meet the dogs and handlers and discover this exhilarating sport open to all breeds of dogs. Regular Farmpark admission applies. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-2562122, lakemetroparks.com

November 22-30 The 33rd annual Holiday Tree Festival – More than 200 decorated trees, 85,000 strings of lights and countless other holiday creations are displayed to benefit Akron Children’s Hospital.

Proceeds support patient care programs, education and research.

Admission is free. John S. Knight Center, 77 E. Mill St., Akron, 330-374-8900, johnsknightcenter.org

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November 22 through January 4 The Wild Days of Winter, noon-5 p.m. Free. Open Christmas Eve noon-3 p.m.; closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Play along on the magical indoor winter wonderland at Penitentiary Glen Reservation. Get in the action of The Wild Days of Winter on a life-sized game board. Take a turn and move along from space to space, and discover through interactive play the many things that nature gives to us in winter. Activity pages, crafts, refreshments available. Snowshoe rentals weather permitting.

Lake Metroparks, Penitentiary Glen Reservation, 8668 Kirtland-Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-256-1404, lakemetroparks.com

November 24 Downtown Barberton Christmas Walk, 6 p.m. This annual fun-filled, family-oriented evening includes a Tree Lighting ceremony held at Lake Anna Gazebo, snacks, crafts and a chance for you to meet Santa. For more information, call 330-472-0366. Lake Anna YMCA, 500 W. Hopocan Ave., Barberton, 330-745-9622

November 25 through December 21 “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” – The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to vibrant life in this delightful musical parable. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron, 330-836-2626, weathervaneplayhouse.com

Holidays at Frostville Museum – Celebrate 19th century holidays. Free.

Buildings open displaying period decorations. Food and drinks available.

Visit with Father Christmas, storytelling, children’s crafts, bonfires and more. Holiday shopping at the General Store. Nov. 29 4-8 p.m. and Nov. 30 at 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Rocky River Reservation, 24101 Cedar Point Road, North Olmsted, 216-501-3345, olmstedhistoricalsociety.org

December 4 Peninsula Candlelight Walk, 5-9 p.m. Celebrate the Heart of the Holidays with a traditional Candlelight Walk throughout the Village of Peninsula.

Shops, organizations, churches, museums, and restaurants will greet you with festive holiday treats, music, special events, goodwill and cheer. Visit explorepeninsula.com for details.

December 4-20 Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some.) A madcap romp through the holiday season. Audience advisory: With some mild adult language and content, the show is best enjoyed by audiences ages 13 and older. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron, 330-836-2626, weathervaneplayhouse.com

November 28 through December 21 “A Christmas Story” – The record-breaking show returns to The Cleveland Play House stage in all its pink-bunny-suit, glowing-leg-lamp, triple-dog-daring glory. A holiday treat for the entire family. Ticket prices: $55-$75. Allen Theatre, 1501 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-241-6000, playhousesquare.org

November 28, 29, 30 and December 3-23 Country Lights Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 5-9 p.m.$10 per person ages 2 and older (must be purchased in advance). Build a wooden toy in Santa’s Workshop, enjoy a wagon ride through thousands of lights, visit Santa in his sleigh, wander through model train and old-fashioned toy displays, visit with Farmpark animals and enjoy special presentations. No reservations required. Ticket sales begin Nov. 7 for Lake County residents and Farmpark members. Out-of-county visitors may order beginning Nov. 12. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440256-2122, lakemetroparks.com

November 29 Breakfast with Santa and Holiday Pastry Sale, 9 a.m.-noon, Pancake breakfast, crafts, photos with Santa, featuring Larry Durian. Adults $6, children 10 and younger $4. Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 4705 Fairhaven Ave NW, Canton, 330-494-8770, htgoc.net

November 29-30 Christmas Tree Adventure – Ride CVSR to Peninsula and shuttle by bus to Heritage Farms to select your own Christmas tree. Fee: $26 adults, $16 children ages 3-12. Tree cost is additional. For departure times and to register call 800-468-4070 or visit CVSR.com.

Mr. Jingeling’s Holiday Express – Enjoy this special trip with a beloved holiday character. Fee: $24 adults, $16 children ages 3-12. For departure times and to register call 800-468-4070 or visit cvrs.com.

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NOVEMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS

November 13

November 18

November 22

Garden Sprouts: Thanksgiving Symbols, 10:15-11 a.m.

Preschooler with an adult companion will learn about the symbols of Thanksgiving through a story, craft and activities. Free. Miller Nature Preserve, 2739 Center Road, Avon, 440-937-0764, metroparks.cc

Little Explorers: Turkeys, 10-11:15 a.m. and 1-2:15 p.m. What does Tom Turkey eat and how does this big bird hide in our forests? Free.

Ages 3-5 with adult. Register Nov. 1-15 by phone or online. Rocky River Nature Center, 24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted, 440-7346660, clevelandmetroparks.com

Kids Create: Turkey Place Card Holders. Pick up a craft kit while supplies last. Fairlawn-Bath Branch Library, 3101 Smith Road, Akron, 330-666-4888, akronlibrary.org

November 16 Puppet Show: Turkey Day, 1:302:30 p.m. Join a naturalist and puppets for a hilarious puppet show and craft. For information, call 330-865-8065. Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron, summitmetroparks.org

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November 19 Stained Glass Window Art, 4:30 p.m. For K-5. Decorate the house for Thanksgiving with crepe paper window art. Tallmadge Branch Library, 90 Community Road, 330633-4345, akronlibrary.org

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holiday classic while eating lunch.

Open to all ages; those under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

Registration begins Nov. 12.

Mentor Public Library, 8215 Mentor Ave., Mentor, 440-2558811, mentorpl.org

November 26 Kids Turkey Crafts, 11 a.m.-noon – Kids (with an adult) make turkey crafts learning about the real bird and its habitat. Free. Lorain County Metro Parks, Schoepfle Garden, 11106 Market St., Birmingham, 440-965-7237, metroparks.cc A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Lunch, noon-1 p.m. Watch the

After School Club: Pony Bead Indian Corn Craft, 4 p.m. Use pony beads and pipe cleaners to make a craft perfect for a Thanksgiving decoration. For children in K-4th grades. Register. Nordonia Hills Branch Library, 9458 Olde Eight Road, Northfield, 330-467-8595, akronlibrary.org

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November 27 Thanksgiving at the Zoo, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. As the zoo’s way of saying thank you to the community for another great year of support, admission to the Zoo and The RainForest is free for everyone on Nov. 27. Visitors can watch the animals enjoy special holiday treats during enrichment demonstrations throughout the day. There’s even

Family Living At Its Best

complimentary heated transportation through the Zoo on Thanksgiving and all winter long.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, 216-6616500, clevelandmetroparks.com

uralist for a 1.6-mile hike to walk off the turkey and stuffing and to enjoy the changes autumn brings to the prairie. Good for spree

credit. Call 330-865-8065.

Springfield Bog Metro Park, 1400 Portage Line Road, Springfield Twp.

November 28 After Thanksgiving Hike, 10-11:30 a.m. Need to burn off those extra Thanksgiving calories? Join a nat-

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Compassion Corner

Fostering Hope – Helping Local Foster Youth at the Holidays

Fostering Hope is a local charity committed to enriching the lives of foster children in Northeast Ohio.

Through health and wellness programming, typical childhood experiences and community involvement, they positively impact the lives of youth living in residential treatment centers.

Fostering Hope believes children can’t grow up in programs alone. Foster youth need to feel a positive connection to their communities, which is why community involvement is a pillar they have built their organization upon.

Providing typical childhood experiences is something else that Fostering Hope strives to do for these youth.

The non-profit group accomplishes this through their annual Holiday Gift ‘n Greet and monthly Birthdays with Hope programs. Something as simple as a holiday gift or birthday greeting means so much more to a child in foster care.

Co-founder Jessica Spirk Everest recalls when a child with tears in her eyes said she hadn’t had a Christmas that wonderful since her dad died.

“You never forget moments like that one,” Everest says.“The beauty of Fostering Hope is that volunteers and sponsors see the impact they have in a child’s life first hand. The Gift ‘n Greet is also an opportunity to teach my own children about compassion and improving the world we live in. Purchasing gifts together from a foster child’s wish list has become a family tradition that we all look forward to.”

Fostering Hope needs sponsors for The Holiday Gift ‘n Greet. It is a $50 commitment and in many cases; you have the opportunity to personally deliver the gifts to your sponsored child.

They also have various community service opportunities for individuals, groups or entire companies. For example, their Extreme Home Makeover gives local companies seeking volunteer events the chance to renovate and reveal a foster home in a day.

Visit FosteringHopeOhio.org or call 216-633-7798 for more information.

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By Anne Schleicher

Dealing with the Holiday Blues for the Elderly Many people get the holiday blues, but chronic depression is a real problem in the elderly, according to Dr. Lori Stevic-Rust, director of senior health services at Lake Health System.

Seniors have the second-highest rate of depression of all age groups.

“They suffer loneliness and isolation as their world gets smaller and their children get busier,” she says.

If you’ve noticed a lasting change

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where your relative no longer enjoys pleasurable activities, like seeing the grandchildren, arrange to have him or her see a geriatrician. The Ohio Department on Aging has contact information on geriatric assessment sites near your senior.

Medication alone is not the answer.

“Talk therapy, socialization and exercise are critical,” says Bert Rahl, director of The Benjamin Rose

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Institute’s Mental Health Program in Cleveland. “Even people in a wheelchair can do exercises that are beneficial to their mental health.”

Both experts agree technology can help brighten the season for an isolated loved one.

Several tablets on the market today are affordable, easy to use and allow interaction with all generations.

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Social Photo Sharing: How Much Is Too Much? (Or Is Anything Too Much?)

By Mark Phillips Most parents have been there before. We’ve taken a photo from our phone that’s just too cute and immediately it goes up on Facebook or another social site. We want aunts and uncles to look at it and “like” it. We want grandparents or relatives in far-off states to feel just a little closer. With this immediate electronic connection, they can share in our kids’ accomplishments or funny outtakes.

We know what our friends and family will do with a photo — like it and move on, however, what about everyone else?

What if, this cute photo of your 4-year-old daughter’s face showed up as a profile for a social media site and asked people to be friends? It stated she was interested in dating men. What if, the social media site’s members gave the photo of the young girl “sexy” ratings? The New York Times recently profiled such a case.

While it’s easy to post photos of your kids to social media, it’s not without its dangers, most notably, that a photo could be used for a purpose you couldn’t dream of.

How can parents protect the images of their children once they’ve posted them to social media?

“The short answer is you really cannot,” says Sgt. Brian Harding of the Akron Police Department.

Most social media sites have safety and privacy policies and controls on their sites, and parents should review them — that adds some level of protection, he notes.

However, once a photo is “out there” on the Internet, anything can happen.

“If a person can view the photo, they can copy it. Once they have the photo, they can use it as erotica, morph the image — use any part of the photo and add a part from another photo. Adding the face to another nude image is an example,” Harding says. “Or use it on a fraudulent site.”

Granted, Harding says, these are “some worst-case scenarios.”

While photos posted to social media sites may not be used in a sexualized manner, they could end up in the strangest of places.

Take the Smith family from St. Louis. The Associated Press reported that Danielle Smith posted her family’s Christmas photo to several social media sites. Some time later, a friend traveling to Europe was dismayed to see it used as an advertisement for a store specializing in European food in Prague, Czech Republic, the AP reported.

students and parents around the country about social media and Internet safety in general.

“As soon as an image is posted anywhere, it can be copied, stolen or shared,” she says. “As a parent, you have no reasonable expectation that the images you post online can be protected. Social media developers cannot and should not be expected to keep your images safe.”

It all comes down to a simple question — “How much of your private life do you want to allow the world to see?”

Weinberger offers some tips for parents about sharing photos and other private information: • Avoid posting “gonna-be” content or advance notice of future events; if you want to post vacation photos, do so after you return home; • Facebook will allow you to create a list including just very close family member so no one else will see the posts; • Remember that your followers can potentially track patterns in your child’s behavior, i.e. soccer team, field, jersey, etc.; • Also, sites such as Flickr keep the location data. A moderately savvy user can extract the location data and figure out where you live.

Keep Kids Safe Jesse Weinberger, author of “The Boogeyman Exists: And He’s In Your Child’s Back Pocket,” is based in Northeast Ohio and speaks to Family Living At Its Best

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To advertise in Northeast Ohio Parent’s MarketPlace, contact sales consultant Andie Martin at 330-670-1234 ext. 207 or email her at andie@northeastohioparent.com.

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Publisher’s Note

From Russia

With Love

Adoption? “Wow, what a great thing — but that’s just crazy for us to seriously consider that!”

Like many families, mine watched safely from the sidelines for a while and witnessed others taking the plunge. At the time, we had two small children of our own, and thinking about juggling a third — especially an “unknown” child — seemed instantly overwhelming.

However, I never wanted to look back years later and

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November 2014

say, “remember when we thought about adopting a child?”

Our personal adventure began when I felt a tug on my heart to go beyond Sunday school teacher and truly pour myself into a child who was not my own. So, we began with adoption and foster care training on several wintry nights at Summit County Children’s Services.

The passion of the other families, the commitment of the staff and the shared vision of helping a kid in need of a “forever family” warmed us.

Our domestic search for a 3-to-7-year-old went through many twists and turns, but ultimately stalled.

We eventually decided to host 6-year-old Zhenya, who was from Russia, through Children’s Hope International Summer Miracles program.

From the first time he and I locked eyes and he called me “Papa,” my heart was instantly moved. Within three days I went from “We can’t adopt from Russia!” to “Why can’t we adopt from Russia?” to the obvious conclusion, “We’re going to Russia!”

After a joyful summer with him, we had to say goodbye. “Our son” — the adorable little Russian boy we had come to love — was now back in a frigid Russian orphanage awaiting rescue. At any point we realized that the U.S. or Russian governments, paperwork hassles, lack of funding or a myriad of other uncontrollable factors could squash our chances of becoming a forever home for this beautiful boy. It wasn’t until we touched down at JFK airport with our newly adopted son shouting “America! America!” that we knew we were home and could finally breath again.

I know adoption isn’t appropriate for every family, however, there are ways to help families who are in various stages of the process. Consider coming alongside them and sharing in the journey. And if you do decide to answer the call to become an adoptive or foster care parent, your life will be enriched in ways you could never imagine.

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