and kids too!
50+ WAYS TO PLAY An A to Z guide of cool activities around town
LOCAL CHEFS COOK WITH THEIR KIDS GASP! MOMMIES CONFESS
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BLUE ASH 10969 Reed Hartman Hwy.
5900 West Chester Rd.
513-874-3100
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513-791-4300
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P R E G N A N C Y S PA M AT E R N I T Y B O U T I Q U E U LT R A S O U N D C E N T E R
513.770.6730
www.becomingmom.com
DEERFIELD TOWNE CENTER • MASON, OH 45040
Share your opinions with us to help make our diapers, wipes, and consumer products even better. If you live in the Cincinnati Tri-State area, we’d love to have you and your family register at the P&G Discovery Center as panelists and join our consumer testing program. You’ll be compensated for each study you complete.
To join our panelist database or for more information: Register: Pampers.com/diaperstudies Call: (513) 945–0001 Or Email at: discoverycenter@pg.com
6280 Center Hill Avenue Cincinnati, Ohio 45224 (Finneytown Area)
TA B L E O F CONTENTS
FEATURES
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FUN & GAMES
From A to Z, we give you the inside scoop on 52 ways to have an awesome time with your kids.
56
PATTERN PLAY
From graphic prints to cool stripes to classic plaid, these pint-sized fashions keep Cincinnati kids in style.
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PLAYING WITH FOOD Five noted Cincinnati chefs talk about how they balance work and family life, and share their secrets for raising healthy eaters.
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MIXING ACCOMPLISHED
The Pramuk family puts a happy face on the post-earthquake adoption of two Haitian children.
COVER & THIS PAGE: Photograph by Ryan Kurtz. Styling by Tamia Stinson. Hair by Kendall Stolz. Lilly Pulitzer “The Little Lilly Shift” dress, $48, Castle House. Blue beaded necklace, $18.50, The Spotted Goose Co.
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P H O T O G R A P H B Y R YA N K U R T Z
TA B L E O F CONTENTS
DEPARTMENTS
12 EDITOR LETTER 17 THE FIRST WORD 18 Baby Talk 22 Ask Dr. Mom 26 Real Mama 28 Play 30 Gear 34 Let’s Party 38 Spaces 40 Style Mama 42 Good Ideas 44 All About Mom
79 THE A TO Z GUIDE 80 Pregnancy 82 Infant 88 Toddler
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94 School Age 96 Health & Wellness 100 Childcare & Education
104 THE LIST 104 Childcare & Education 122 Medical Care 126 Photography 132 Party Places
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136 MOMMY
CONFESSIONS
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PREPARING P STU DE NTS TO
Hillsdale Campus Cincinnati, Ohio 45227
Doherty Campus Cincinnati, Ohio 45206
THRIVE ••••••••••••••
At Seven Hills, child-centered teaching is at the head of our Program, a warm and nurturing atmosphere is at its heart—and children experience the joy of learning.
7hills.org
For more information or to schedule a tour, visit 7hills.org or call 513.728.2400. Age two through grade 12
Carew Tower • 441 Vine Street, Suite 200 Cincinnati, OH 45202-2039 (513) 421-4300 BABYGUIDECINCINNATI.COM
PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER
John Lunn EDITOR
Kara Renee Hagerman ART DIRECTORS
Brittany Dexter, Danielle Johnson ART ASSISTANT & STYLIST
Tamia Stinson DESIGN CONSULTANT
Grace E. Saunders CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
SALES ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Ivy Bayer SENIOR ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES
Maggie Wint Goecke, Matt Reis ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES
Christie Goetz, Lisa Lawrence, Jenny Swain SENIOR OUTSIDE ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE
Laura Bowling ADVERTISING & MARKETING DESIGNER
Jen Kawanari
Sarah Mullins CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Aaron M. Conway/OMS Photography, Jeremy Kramer, Ryan Kurtz, William Manning, Annette Navarro, Jonathan Willis
BUSINESS OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Missy Beiting BUSINESS COORDINATOR Erica Birkle
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Jenny Dapper CUSTOM PUBLISHING & SPECIAL SECTIONS INTERNS
Miranda Carney, Abigail Hofrichter MARKETING DIRECTOR
Chris Ohmer DIGITAL MEDIA EDITOR
Amy Brownlee
EMMIS COMMUNICATIONS CHAIRMAN/CEO Jeffrey H. Smulyan CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER/CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Patrick M. Walsh EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT/ GENERAL COUNSEL J. Scott Enright
EMMIS PUBLISHING LP PRESIDENT Gregory T. Loewen VICE PRESIDENT/EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Mary Melton VICE PRESIDENT/NATIONAL SALES Marian Conicella VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE Melinda Marshall SENIOR MANAGER, DIGITAL MEDIA Craig Bowen PUBLISHING ACCOUNTANT Marianne Isaacs
The Baby Guide & Kids Too is a registered trademark of Emmis Publishing L.P.
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Active Play to Inspire the Child Inside
Let your child blossom through creative play at Pogo Play!
• Safe, secure environment with unique wrist band security system • 20,000 sq. ft. fully remodeled facility with 6,400 sq. ft. Ultimate Playground • Toddler room equipped with age appropriate toys and books for 6 months to 3 years. • Dramatic Play area • Blocks and Lego® rooms • Imagination Playground
Photo by Leigh Taylor
• Allison’s Café & Gourmet Coffee • Basketball/Sports Courts • Birthday Parties with Inflatables & Meeting Rooms • Special art & children’s music programs coming this Fall! And much more!
www.gopogoplay.com • 513.432.5593 www.facebook.com/gopogoplay • 10870 Kenwood Road • Blue Ash, OH 45242
EDITOR LETTER
LOVE & LAUGHS PARENTS, WELCOME TO THE BABY GUIDE.
We are thrilled to deliver a magazine for the modern Cincinnati parent, with lifestyle-driven content you can relate to and a look you’ll love. When you get a chance to dig in, like when the kids finally fall asleep, you’ll read about real local parents and cool kid spaces and stuff, and you’ll get top-notch advice from medical experts. The Q&A with the director of the sleep center at Cincinnati Children’s might be a good place to start. Ever since I moved to Cincinnati with my now 4-year-old son Liam, we’ve been on a quest to uncover every fun-filled kid adventure, from the triedand-true—the Cincinnati Zoo, where he once petted a giant cockroach in a class about bugs (and Mom did not)—to the unexpected, like the hidden and beautiful Highfield Discovery Garden at Glenwood Gardens, which has become one of our favorite spots. We are so fortunate to have endless ways to keep the kids entertained—and ourselves sane—in Southwest Ohio. As you look for creative, imaginative, and enriching experiences for your kids, turn to “Fun & Games” for some golden ideas. Parenting, of course, is not all fun and games. It comes with challenges, and we address some of those too, from discipline tips to helping your child transition into new settings. When you’re feeling sleep-deprived and less than stellar (because we all do sometimes), you’ll appreciate the “Mommy Confessions” we compiled on the back page. They’re funny, yes. But they’re also honest and revealing in an age when being the best parent can feel like a competition. It’s a reminder we all need—no parent is perfect. We do the best we can, taking each challenge as it comes and showing our kids loads of love every step of the way. And that’s what this journey is all about. Enjoy!
Kara Renee Hagerman
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PHOTOGRAPH BY AMANDA BARBOSA-PHOTOGRAPHER
We are Muddy Creek Kids! ...and our mom was, too!
Small practice with two Board Certified Pediatricians & two Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioners with caring and compassionate staff ensures excellent continuity of care while still offering: • Same day and Saturday morning sick visits • Separate well and sick entrances • Onsite certified lactation specialist • Diabetes care • “Meet the Doctor” appointments for new parents/patients
Family-centered care from birth to college, where we treat your kids like our kids! *NEW: Online patient portal available for access to your child’s healthcare visits, as well as patient education resources.
Kathryn E. O’Malley, MD Todd D. Habel, MD Toral Freson, RN, MSN, CPNP Shannon Haury, RN, MSN, CPNP
6400 Thornberry Court, Suite 610 Mason, OH 45040 (513) 398-3900 www.muddycreekpeds.com
Discover all Cincinnati Museum Center has to offer!
cincymuseum.org/join
Touch it, Climb it, Splash in it, Build it, Explore it, Master it. Fill your child’s early years with learning through play!
Join Today! Start a lifetime of exploration and discovery. Members get free admission, free parking and discounts.
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THE F1RST WORD LIFE WITH A LITTLE
SNEAK PEEK
THE ADORABLE Ruthie Dewald is sure to grow up loving style as much as her fashionable mama Lindsay, cofounder of The City Flea. Lindsay dishes about her baby’s beautiful blues and how she looks put together with a toddler that keeps her on her toes. Ruthie isn’t the only pint-sized fashionista in town; there’s also 3-yearold Sydney Keiser, an Internet sensation known as Mayhem who designs dresses inspired by runway looks using paper and tape. Learn about these little style stars, get the goods on baby gear, gift ideas, and toys, and find advice to make your crazy life just a little bit simpler. — S A R A H M U L L I N S
P H O T O G R A P H B Y R YA N K U R T Z
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THE F1RST WORD BABY TALK
MAKER’S CHOICE
“I like the green one best because it’s really springy!” says an ebullient, dancing Sydney. We agree.
MADE BY MAYHEM
The construction paper couture this mother-daughter duo creates will make you rethink craft time. — K R I ST I N
LUNA
ANGIE KEISER HAD NO IDEA WHAT SHE WAS GETTING
herself into. When the Miami Township mom first suggested making a construction paper dress, her then-3-year-old, Sydney, immediately took the reins. Hands on hips, the wide-eyed, pint-sized ball of fire dictated which colors of construction paper to use as her mother pieced together a rainbow frock with masking tape. “Take a picture, Mom!” Sydney demanded. And Keiser, who is a professional photographer, did. That was May 2013, and a homemade “fashion line” was born. More than a year and hundreds of dresses later, this exercise in creativity has become a daily routine. Not long before the dress experiment, Sydney was diagnosed with a number of life-altering allergies, including peanuts and soy.“Honestly, it’s exhausting to explain her allergies everywhere we go,” Keiser says. “I’m not a fan of asking for special treatment, so we’re simply designing a life based on what she can do with as little discussion as possible.” That meant encouraging an already developed sense of playing
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dress-up. It didn’t take long for Keiser to recognize that Sydney’s interest in clothes—and serious knack for design—was more than a passing phase. “Each time she dressed up, she was assuming a new ‘character,’ and her imagination went wild.” The ladies craft their creations from everyday materials they find around the house—tissue paper, bubble wrap, gift bags, wrapping paper. “We use her very favorite thing—packing tape—to put it all together,” Keiser says. The mother-daughter team chronicles their increasingly impressive creations via Instagram and an associated blog. (Search #fashionbyMayhem; Mayhem is Sydney’s online nickname.) This digital presence recently surged in popularity after Mayhem was featured by The Huffington Post, BuzzFeed, and The Cut. “The creativity and ingenuity that poured out of her the more I encouraged her self-expression was pretty amazing to see,” Keiser says. “That’s something I don’t want anyone to stifle, ever.” Fashionbymayhem.com, @2sisters_angie (Instagram), @fashionbymay hem (Twitter)
P H O T O G R A P H S B Y: (L E F T ) J O N AT H A N W I L L I S (R I G H T ) A N N E T T E N AVA R R O
THE F1RST WORD
PACE PROVIDES DOS AND DON’TS FOR YOUR BABY’S FIRST PHOTO SHOOT.
BABY TALK
THAT MOMENT
Capture your wee one’s first days with some sweet portraits.
EVERY NEW PARENT KNOWS THOSE
first few weeks with your little one are a total blur. “Our babies grow so fast,” says Melanie Pace of Loft 3 Photography. “It’s hard to remember when their tootsies were as long as our thumbs and their heads fit perfectly in our palms.” Pace, who has two little ones of her own, suggests families invest in a professional session with a photographer who has the equipment to highlight baby’s features. If that’s not in the new-baby budget, schedule a one-year session or find a yearly package that offers mini sessions during the year. As the co-owner of Beautiful Beginnings Birth Photography, Pace also photographs births. “Pure vulnerability in those first moments always radiates a special kind of intensity that can’t be staged later. It’s pure bliss.” loft3photography.com
ON REPEAT
A LOCAL MOM CREATES AN APP TO HELP YOU GIVE YOUR BREATH A REST.
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—SARAH
the face. DO BOOK THE photo shoot when you’re 4–5 months pregnant. Don’t wait until the baby has arrived; most photographers do not offer walk-ins. DO BE OPEN TO anything. Trust the photographer is getting a good angle and don’t nitpick yourself. Let life happen. DO CLIP THE baby’s finer nails a few days before the session. “I often show up to a baby with a scratched-up face and those could be prevented,” Pace says. DO RAISE THE temperature of the house the night before. “It’s easier for a baby to relax and calm down when it’s warm,” Pace says.
children, reached out to a friend to help her develop Mommy Buttons, which lets you record reminders and sayings like “eat your vegetables” or “go brush your teeth.” It’s a fun way to get kids to listen, and it allows kids to hear their parent’s voice when they’re away. The early feedback has been all positive.
“For us, Mommy Buttons has helped to turn my repetitive daily parent moments into a ‘wow’ moment that has us all stop and giggle,” she says. Up next: Daddy Buttons, of course. —S.M.
MULLINS
Local singer/songwriter Jennifer Ellis has made a mother’s dream of not repeating herself a reality with an app she created called Mommy Buttons. Ellis, of Kenwood, says she realized she was repeating the same points to her boys, Eli and Tyler. Ellis, who also sings jazz music to
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DON’T DRESS the baby in orange, pink, or red. It reflects onto their skin and babies are already red enough. DON’T EXPECT the session to be one quick hour, nice and smooth. “In nine years, I have had one of those,” Pace says. “Newborns are high-maintenance and need a lot of attention. We stop to feed, change, soothe, and feed some more.” DON’T GET irritated during a session when your infant cries. “It’s okay, I promise,” Pace says. DON’T DRESS baby in a collared shirt or zip-up styles. The zippers always bunch up and irritate the neck and the collars end up covering half
99 cents, Apple and Android, mommy buttons.com
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY LOFT 3 PHOTOGRAPHY
THE F1RST WORD B ASK AB DR. Y TA MOM LK
Q: Parents are sometimes faced with a situation where their child is sick or injured and they’re not sure what to do. In some cases, an ER visit may not be necessary. When should you head to the ER? Pediatricians have the best insight as to what can be seen in the office and what needs to be seen at either an urgent care or ER. Unfortunately, people do not
A:
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call their doctor before they seek care in an urgent care or ER, and sometimes the concern could be handled in the office. If your child has an arm deformity from an injury and you think you will need a specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon, go to the ER. If your child sticks something in the ear, it’s actually not an emergency, unless it’s a living organism. If your child sticks something in the nose, we need to evaluate her in an urgent care or ER because she could choke in the middle of the night. AND TO URGENT CARE?
Urgent care handles minor A: complaints such as ear pain and sore throat and minor procedures such as suturing , splinting, or X-rays. Think of it as your after-hours pediatrician’s office. If your child develops ear pain and wakes up screaming and crying and nothing is helping, that would be an appropriate urgent care visit.
S TAT S
96%
IN 2010, PERCENTAGE OF CHILDREN TREATED IN THE ER WHO WERE RELEASED.
22.8%
OF ER VISITS IN 2010, PERCENTAGE OF INFANTS YOUNGER THAN 1 ADMITTED TO THE HOSPITAL.
I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y T U E S D AY B A S S E N
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON CONDITIONS YOU SEE IN THE ER?
During wintertime, we see more respiratory illness, viral bronchiolitis, pneumonia, asthma, and reactive airway disease. In the summer, it’s playground injuries like arm fractures and lacerations. Abscesses, dog bites, falls, burns, belly pain, and various respiratory illnesses—we see these year round.
A:
at Kids First Sports Center 7900 E. KEMPER ROAD
SPLASH, PLAY, AND LEARN!
WHAT DO YOU TYPICALLY SEE THAT IS NOT AN EMERGENCY?
Fever phobia. Fever is not something to be afraid of, especially if your child is fully immunized. Just be vigilant. Fevers are most common in the middle of the night. If there is nothing else going on—no evidence of pneumonia or skin infection—then you can probably wait.
A:
YOU ARE A MOM OF THREE. WHEN DO YOU GET WORRIED ABOUT YOUR OWN KIDS?
Things I thought would scare me—really high fevers or bad vomiting illness—those situations scare me less than choking and motor vehicle accidents. The things that you can’t predict scare me. Also, anything involving the eyes. My son’s eyes got infected and the ER doctor in me was saying “He has to go to the ER!” The pediatrician put him on Augmentin and he was doing great in two days.
A:
We teach comfort & confidence in the water Our programs are internationally recognized stop in & find out why! Heated indoor pool & small class sizes learn-to-swim, strokes & squads FREE BABY SPLASH ages 8 wks - 5 mos LITTLE SNAPPERS ages 6 - 35 mos GROUP LESSONS ages 3 - 12 yrs HUBBARDSWIM.COM · 513.530.0123
Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Nursery School
HOW SHOULD PARENTS REACT IN SERIOUS SITUATIONS?
Be calm and realize there are people trained to help you. When you come to the ER, this is what we live for. Stay calm and think to yourself, “If I freak out, my kid is really going to freak out.” So as bad as that laceration looks and as awfully deformed as that arm is, you have to roll with it. Freak out after help arrives. — J E N N I F E R H O G A N R E D M O N D
A:
• Preschool for 2½ years - 5 years • 2, 3, 4, or 5 day programs, mornings or afternoons • Degreed staff, excellent ratios • Summer Camp for ages 3-8 • Parent and Child Classes also available for infants and toddlers Step Up to Quality Top Award Winner
Corinne Bria, M.D., treats young patients every day at the Emergency Department at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center.
Megan Sprigg, M.S.Ed., Director 5950 Montgomery Road • 513.631.0170
www.prpc.org THE BABYGUIDE
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Do you want your child to be an actor or actress?
model management
Model & Talent Agency
Ciara Bravo
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Wings Model & Talent Management 602 Main Street, Suite 485 • Cincinnati, OH 45202 513-929-9464 • www.wingsmodels.com For more info, visit our facebook page and website.
Murray Dock, DDS, MSD Lisa Rudolph, DMD, MPH
Dr. Murray Dock says: First Tooth = First Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental visit for children by age 1.
(513) 891-0660 9505 Montgomery Road Cincinnati, OH 45242
MontgomeryPediatricDentistry.com
THE F1RST WORD BREAL ABY TA MAMA LK
MAGIC AND MUFFIN TOPS
BY LIZ BELL YOUNG
THIS IS HOW HELL DAY START-
ed: me, my husband, and our two wild banshees attempting the most audacious act ever—taking a family vacation. And here I am, 11 hours, two flights, and 30 layovers later, crawling across the creepiest carpet ever as I follow the crazed path of my delirious toddler who has licked every square inch of this travel pit while we wait for a flight that will 100 percent never come. No, I am not finishing a novel or training for a 26.2 or drinking kale smoothies or handcrafting something fabulous—I am on my hands and knees with antibacterial products and probiotics and pepper spray while my 1-year-old licks an entire airport and I scurry to offset any disease he might be accumulating—until I convince myself that all this precaution is getting us nowhere. If I just let down my guard, I will actually be hailed as the mom who thought outside the box. I will be the mom who denied popular lore that germs equal sick, and Tommy’s immune system will, in fact, skyrocket. Locker Room MRSA? Not in my house. Mono? Scurvy? Easy breezy. I am SO under control, so imaginative, so unconventional! And that lady we just crawled past? No, she is not giving me the stink eye because I am the world’s worst mother. It is out of mere habit, little Miss Stinky Face, and when you get scurvy, you will remember that mom who braved the road less taken. I swore, of course, this would not happen. Not the crawling part, oh no. I adore children and it’s all I wanted to just have my
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I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y R YA N S N O O K
own. But the immersion. The full-on sacrifice. The muffin top. I was set on being the mother who didn’t fall prey to Crocs, to pajama pants at noon, to chaos and frenzy and flab. I was going to stay exceptionally current and keep my husband wildly excited and never miss a cultural beat because how scary is that? How scary to get lost in the world of play dates and mom bobs? How terrifying to lose relevance—disappearing inside the bowels of a home where all you do is scrub and tend and wait—and fall into the world’s peripheral view? I’ll tell you what is not in peripheral view. Me strolling that same travel-delirious toddler down a lakeside street after those hellish airport hours when I still haven’t changed out of the Crocs and pajama pants that I promised myself looked structured enough to pass for, say, yoga pants. And as I strolled down that street with my greasestained, 1990s neon orange umbrella stroller, I cross the path of some very current, very childless progressives. I know she drinks kale and has the best Instagram feed ever. I know he just cranked out a web platform and drafted a witty manifesto in one night. I imagine they have no clue what it means to sacrifice and disappear, as I squish my stomach back into my pants. But just before I bust into the next liquor store, this happens: my little guy reaches his hand into the air. And it is that simple. We’ve all had moments like this. When that hand in the air or on your cheek takes your breath away. One hand that shows you what you were part of creating, what you dreamed and dreamed to get. Because this is the splendor, mamas. No matter how ugly our fears of becoming irrelevant, no matter how many times we feel overlooked or overspent or overweight, we have this hand. We have this child, this wonder. A child so absolutely worth crawling the creepy carpets for, foregoing endless amounts of sleep for, losing a few worldly achievements for. Before the hipsters fall out of view, I give them my truest smile. They pause, and the girl leans down and puts her sweet hand on Tommy’s knee, and she tells me how beautiful. How lucky. Stay bright, sweet mamas. The real treasure is right in front of you. Liz Bell Young is the author of In the Wide Country of Love, for sale at lizbell young.com
FOUNDED 1970
THE NEW SCHOOL MONTESSORI
• Preprimary to grade 6 • Strong academics • Healthy lunches • Wooded playgrounds • Credentialed Montessori teachers • Cincinnati’s only Montessori school accredited by the American Montessori Society
Academic Excellence with Montessori Heart NEW SCHOOL MONTESSORI.COM 3 Burton Woods Lane, North Avondale
Baby Boon! Maternity Concierge & Baby Planner Taking the stress out of preparing for parenthood.
Offering NIGHT BABY NURSES and prenatal education CLASSES FORMING NOW FOR CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION, GREEN PARENTING AND NEWBORN CARE www.mybabyboon.com/events 513.532.9267 Serving greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky THE BABYGUIDE
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THE F1RST WORD
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P L AY
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CALL OF THE WILD Venture from the playroom and into the wilderness with these animal-themed toys and accessories.
1
HOPPITY HOP
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PUT ON A SHOW
Folkmanis mini alpaca finger puppet, Blue
Toys, kingarthurstoys.com,
Manatee Children’s Bookstore, bluemanateebooks.com,
$14.99
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Kidorable frog umbrella, King Arthur’s
THE BABYGUIDE
$8.50
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SPIKY SKINS
Mad Pax Later Gator backpack, madpax.com, $60
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6
9
8
4
BUTTERFLY EFFECT
6
HORSE PLAY
8
READY TO ROAR
Earth Divas Fair Trade felt purse, Joseph-Beth
Toymarketing Rody horse, King Arthur’s
Haba lion clutching toy, Blue Manatee Children’s
Booksellers, josephbeth.com,
Toys, kingarthurstoys.com,
$19.99
$49.99
Bookstore, bluemanateebooks. com, $15
5
ANIMAL HOUSE
Kikkerland Design Endangered Wildlife rhino eraser, Poeme, poeme-online. com, $11
7
MONKEY BUSINESS Hat to Toe knit hat,
Pomegranate & Lime, (513) 271-1012, $25
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STANDING TALL
Melissa & Doug giant plush giraffe, Treehouse Kids Co., treehousekidsco.com, $99
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THE F1RST WORD GEAR
IN THE BAG
Five guy-friendly options for toting the little one’s stuff.
DADS, WE KNOW you don’t want to lug around your wife’s bright, colorful floral tote. You’d prefer to carry the kid’s diapers and wipes in a bag that reflects your style. Whether you’re a sports fan looking for a bag that supports your favorite team (go Redlegs!) or a rugged guy who wants a sleek, leather messenger, we’ve got the goods. Sport your daddy bag with pride—a diaper change has never looked this good.
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1
TEAM PLAYER Diaper Dude Cincinnati Reds diaper bag,
Target, target.com, $78.99
THE F1RST WORD
2
3
GEAR
COOL BLUE
IN THE POCKET
DadGear Retro Stripe backpack diaper bag, DadGear, dadgear.com, $89
Diaper Dude Messenger II diaper bag, Nordstrom, nordstrom.com, $98
We Make Frugal Look Fabulous We pay you
CASH
on-the-spot! Clothes Mentor is a totally new kind of RESALE store for women! We buy & sell “gently used,” current style women’s apparel (sizes 0-26), maternity, shoes, purses and accessories! Find all your favorite brands under one roof for up to 70% off original retail!
WE BUY ALL SEASONS, ALL YEAR! Anderson • 8556 Beechmont Ave • (513) 388-9800 Fields Ertel • 12151 Royal Pointe Drive • (513) 677-1600 West Chester • 8154 Princeton Glendale Road • (513) 874-7000
Visit us at clothesmentor.com À w ` ÕÃ >ViL 32
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5
HAND CRAFTED
CLASSIC LINES
Boutonné diaper bag,
Ben Minkoff Indy dad bag, Nordstrom, nordstrom.com, $225
Boutonné, shopboutonne.com, $285
clothing
toys
equipment
Make Money, Shop Smart Once Upon A Child is the nation’s leading resale shop. We buy & sell sizes Newborn-14/16, toys, shoes, toys, equipment & furniture. We pay cash-on-the-spot and you never need an appointment! Plus, find all of your favorite brands under one roof for up to 70% off retail prices!
Greater Cincinnati: Anderson 513.474.5105 • Colerain 513.385.3034 Fields Ertel 513.677.5700 • West Chester 513.860.0770 • Western Hills 513.451.7600 Dayton: Beavercreek 937.427.2744 • Dayton Mall 937.312.1294 • Huber Heights 937.235.2125
www.OnceUponAChildCincyDayton.com
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THE F1RST WORD age 5
LET’S PARTY SO YOUNG DEER BACKPACK,
AREAWARE LARGE CUBEBOT, Blue
The Spotted Goose, thespottedgoose.com, $50
Manatee Children’s Bookstore, bluemanateebooks.com, $24
QUADRILLA ROUNDABOUT MARBLE RUN, King Arthur’s Toys, kingarthurstoys.com, $69.99
age 4
BOGS RAIN BOOTS, Castle House, castlehouse.com, $52
PETIT COLLAGE SAFARI JUMBLE WOODEN PUZZLE, The Spotted Goose, thespottedgoose.com, $36
PEARHEAD ALLIGATOR BANK, Poême, poeme-online.com, $29
age 3
MELISSA & DOUG BLOSSOM BRIGHT TOTE SET, King Arthur’s Toys, kingarthurstoys.com, $14.99
WOLFUM WOODEN RABBIT PUSH TOY, MiCA 12/v, shopmica.com, $45
STEPHEN JOSEPH BACKPACK,
Joseph-Beth Booksellers, josephbeth.com, $23.95
WRAP IT UP From boys to girls and babies to big kids, here are some great birthday gift ideas. — S A R A H M U L L I N S
age 2 GREEN TOYS DUMP TRUCK, Blue
Manatee Children’s Bookstore, bluemanateebooks.com, $27.99
BLABLA KIDS KNIT DOLL,
Gattle’s, gattlescincinnati.com, $44
JANOD ROCKET MAGNETIC STACKING TOY, MiCA 12/v, shopmica.com, $22
age 1
LITTLE GIRAFFE LITTLE G,
Gattle’s, gattlescincinnati.com, $44 girl
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FAT BRAIN TOY CO. TOBBLES NEO, Ted’s Toy Store, tedstoystore.com, $27.99
TINY TREASURES DESIGNS OHIO BASEBALL BIB, Park + Vine, parkandvine.com, $12 boy
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Bring in this ad for a $20 Gift Certificate or 20% Off Your Next Crib or Youth Bed Purchase* *Disclaimer: Limited time offer while supplies last; not valid on sale or clearance prices.
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www.treehousekidsco.com
The place with a full range of birthing options was his mom’s choice.
Every baby is unique, and so is every birth. That’s why so many moms choose Premier Health. We provide comprehensive maternity services including prenatal care and specialists in high-risk pregnancies, the only accredited natural birthing center in the state of Ohio located within a hospital, four level II special care nurseries, and one of the state’s most experienced Level III neonatal intensive care units. Our highly trained physicians and experienced staff champion personal birthing plans that match the needs and expectations of mothers-to-be. So we have everything you need for your own unique bundle of joy. That’s how Premier Health is leading with care for moms and babies around the region. To find a physician or to schedule a tour of a Premier maternity suite, visit PremierHealth.com/maternity.
Miami Valley Hospital Miami Valley Hospital South Good Samaritan Hospital Atrium Medical Center Upper Valley Medical Center
THE F1RST WORD BABY STA PA L C EKS
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You have better things to take care of on your To-do list.
CLEAN YOUR ROOM
Playrooms can quickly become a mess of scattered toys and smeared surfaces. Store owner and mom Megan Strasser keeps hers simple to cut down on chaos. — A B I G A I L H O F R I C H T E R
MINIMALISM, SIMPLICITY, and function-
ality might not be some of the words that come to mind when discussing parenthood, but Megan Strasser, owner of the recently opened Fern Studio Cincinnati, doesn’t feel the need to compromise her sense of style for her 3-year-old daughter and 15-monthold son. “My store is highly curated and the same goes for my house,” Strasser says. So how does one incorporate minimalism into a playroom? By streamlining. This space is far from your typical plastic-ridden playroom. The room is simple and clean, with black and white accents and functional features such as the 1 chalkboard closet doors and an 2 IKEA photo hanger for displaying the kids’ art. The 3 children’s drawing table also came from IKEA. Strasser mounted the roll of craft paper herself to create a coloring station. As Strasser continues to grow with her College Hill studio, where she sells artfully designed flora and vertical gardens, she finds the same practices apply at home. “What I notice in the studio is that it’s such a small space, so just moving things around brings them to people’s attention,” she says.“The same goes for the kids. They tend to forget about certain toys and if you 4 slightly rearrange and bring it to their attention, they will discover and rediscover new things.”
Give yourself the gift of time. •
Birth & postpartum doula support
•
Breastfeeding support
•
Private & semi-private childbirth education classes
•
Personal assistant & errand-running
•
Maternity leave assistance & easing back to work
•
Doula mentorships, trainings, & more
Erica Konya CD(DONA), CLD, CCCE(CAPPA)
513.477.4697 erica @ nurturebirth.com www.nurturebirth.com [photo by daphne photo studio]
EVERY LIFE NEEDS MUSIC
S CLASSE MUSIC to 4 years s th n o m 6 S CLASSE PIANO and up rs a e 5y
Unique Curriculum 45 Years of Experience Trained Group Music Teachers Family Discounts Convenient Hyde Park/Oakley Location
www.baldwinmusiceducenter.com 513.351.1109 THE BABYGUIDE
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THE F1RST WORD STYLE MAMA
LINDSAY & RUTHIE DEWALD
Cofounder of The City Flea and all the love behind the Little One Love blog, this darling duo is charming the socks off Cincinnati.
YOU ARE CLEARLY A MAMA WILDLY IN LOVE. This little monkey means everything to me and Nick. I do love style, the work I get to do for City Flea, and the blog...but Ruthie is definitely our priority. SO HOW DO YOU STILL LOOK LIKE YOU FELL OUT OF A MADEWELL LOOK BOOK? Actually, I’ve learned to keep it really simple. Recently, we purged our house and closets—the best feeling. Now I have only a few well-made options, like five shirts that fit right and I feel good in. I’m never digging through my closet with a toddler at my feet. I MEAN THIS IN THE KINDEST WAY, BUT YOU DRESS A LITTLE BOYISH. I was definitely a tomboy growing up! I still wear more masculine colors with a feminine fit. Same goes for Ruthie, really. Most of her clothes are from the boy’s section because I like the gender-neutral colors, the solids, the stripes. American Apparel’s a favorite. AND THOSE EYES! I know it. I’m clearly biased, but I see something special in those big blues. CITY FLEA. GIVE US THE LATEST. Cincinnati is so full of creative entrepreneurs and locally minded shoppers. We love that we get to be part of bringing a new experience to the urban core. — L I Z B E L L Y O U N G thecityflea.com, littleonelove.com
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PH OTO G R A PH BY A N N E T T E N AVA R R O
clothing accessories & gifts
hip little ones 0-12 yrs
shop IN Oakley or online at TheSpottedGoose.com
THE F1RST WORD GOOD IDEAS
TRIM THAT BUDGET These simple tricks can start saving some serious cash today. —ELIZABETH
MILLER WOOD
NEGOTIATE, NEGOTIATE, negotiate. It’s not just used cars and mattresses. A quick call to your cell phone and cable providers can knock dollars off your monthly bill. Make lower-than-stickerprice offers on furniture, especially at mom-and-pop shops. Even medical bills can be negotiated under certain circumstances.
REDUCE HOT WATER TEMperature from the standard 140 degrees to 120 degrees, which is still plenty hot for a steamy shower. The U.S. Department of Energy (energy.gov) estimates that this 20-degree reduction can save up to $400 annually by reducing standby heat losses and demand losses.
RE-EVALUATE AUTOMATIC renewal charges. Old e-mail accounts, unread magazine subscriptions, an idle Netflix account, underutilized Amazon Prime. Little charges add up. The first step is simply to be aware of these charges. Comb through credit card statements to make sure you aren’t paying for stuff you aren’t using.
TOSS THE EXTRA REFRIGERAtor. Your mom’s old fridge in the basement might come in handy at Thanksgiving, but the rest of the year it’s sucking up energy and potentially costing you hundreds of dollars each year.
INSTATE A QUARTERLY “PURGE the pantry” week. Instead of making your weekly grocery trip, cook from what you already have. You’ll be amazed at what’s been forgotten: frozen meats, shoved-to-the-back canned vegetables, quarter-full boxes of pasta and rice.
EAT OUT WISELY. Brand new restaurants often have soft openings with discounted meals. Also, upon request, some restaurants do half portions for a reduced price. Plus, happy hour discounts, BYOB options, and familystyle restaurants can save you a bundle on your bill.
KEEP IT SIMPLE
MOMS TELL US ABOUT APPS THEY USE TO KEEP LIFE UNDER CONTROL.
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ZIPLIST Home to recipes, meal planning, shopping lists, and grocery discounts. A sharing feature lets you delegate your list to others’ devices. MOMMAPS Couple hours to kill? Use GPS to find nearby parks, playgrounds, and museums.
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SHOPSAVVY Before buying, scan a product’s barcode (with your phone’s camera) to potentially find better deals online or at another store nearby. SUNRISE Scheduling made easy(er) with quick-add features, invite capa-
bility, and automatic pull-ins of RSVPs from Google Calendar and Facebook. WEBMD Is it strep throat or sniffles? Simple symptom checkers and helpful articles can help determine whether you need to call the doc. —E.M.W.
UN I V E R S IT Y OF C IN C IN N AT I ME D I C AL CE NT E R
Baby on Board. At UC Medical Center, we take pride in the Bearcat babies we deliver every day – from those healthy, full-term bundles of joy to those pre-term babies full of fight and strength.
What does it mean to be a Bearcat baby? It means peace of mind and comfort in knowing you are surrounded by our world-class labor and delivery team. We are here to make sure you have the healthiest baby possible – whether you have a routine delivery or need the most advanced care available in the region. To schedule a tour of our spacious, private labor and delivery suites, please call: (513) 584-BABY (2229)
UCHealth.com/BearcatBaby
THE F1RST WORD ALL ABOUT MOM
BOUNCE BACK
If the baby is here but that bump is lingering, and you aren’t quite ready for marathon running, check out one of these workouts at gyms and studios all around the city. — C A I T L I N L A M B
ABS The Reshape Re:Form pilates class at The Breathing Room will help you get back that flat tummy. (513) 321-4433,
CALVES The programs at Pure Barre are based on ballet techniques and aim to build a long and lean physique. Two locations; (513)
thebreathingroom.com
321-5800, purebarre.com
ARMS Cincinnati Fitness Boxing has classes to strengthen your arms, build your endurance, and help you knock out some stress. Sign up the older kids (ages 6 and up) for a class of their own.
THIGHS Enjoy river views while you tone your legs with a rental from the Cincinnati Bike Center. They even provide baby seats and wagons. (513)
282-4260, cincin natibikecenter. com
(513) 429-2766, cfbfit.com
MIND/TOTAL BODY/RELAXATION Relax while you tone. Go it alone, or bring the little one and enjoy a Baby and Me, Little Sprouts, or Family Yoga class at Shine Yoga. (513) 533-9642,
shineyoga.com
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BACK/SHOULDERS Take a break and sculpt your back and shoulders with a swim at the YMCA. Bonus: free childcare is provided. Various
locations; (513) 362-YMCA, cincinnatiymca.org
FOR MOST MOMS, relaxation becomes a last priority. “Especially after having a baby, it is so important to take care of your body,” says Natasha Burns, director of The Spa at 21c, inside the 21c Museum Hotel, named No. 1 Hotel in the U.S. in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. The Spa’s Express
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BUTT Tots live it up in the Children’s Center (free for members) while you try a Booty Barre or BODYPUMP class at the Cincinnati Sports Club. (513) 527-
4000, cincinnatisportsclub.com
Menu has facials, massages, and manipedis, all in 30-minute sessions. For a longer break, the Raindrop Ritual, which is designed to alleviate back pain and enhance the immune system, features the dropping of warm oils onto the spine. Take a dip in the hydrotherapy tub, enjoy a deep-tissue massage,
or try a detoxifying body wrap. “When you’re a mom, you don’t always feel balanced and in control of your life,” Burns says. “We have treatments to help you find yourself again.”— C . L .
609 Walnut St., downtown, (513) 578-6600, 21cmuseumhotels.com/ cincinnati
SPA PHOTO G R APH COURTE SY 21c HOTEL S
A FUN PLACE
TO BE HEALTHY, UNPLUG, AND RECONNECT With the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility as our guide, we work every day to help children have fun while exploring their full potential. With the Y, you can be assured that whatever activity your family or your child engages in - from child care to family time, sports to camp - you’ll have a safe, positive environment to play, learn, and grow. Because the Y is for everyone, we bring together parents and kids like no other organization can. Stop by for a tour or call your local YMCA of Greater Cincinnati branch to set up an appointment with our membership team to help you get started today!
(513) 362-YMCA MyY.org
JOIN TODAY!
THE F1RST WORD BABY TA L K
PLAYING WITH GLASS AT BRAZEE STREET STUDIOS
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I S FO R A N D E RSO N F E R RY This relic of the past is on the National Register of Historic Places and has been operating since 1817. In your car, in a stroller, or on foot, you and the kids can take an extra fun trip across the Ohio on one of three ferries named for Daniel Boone. A one-way trip costs $5 ($8 round-trip) and takes a breezy seven to eight minutes. Grab a kiddie cone on the Ohio side at UDF before heading back. 4030 River Rd., Hebron, (859) 5865007, andersonferryofficial.com
I S F O R B E AU T Y A N D T H E B EAST J R. Your preschoolers
FROM a TO z , WE GIVE YOU THE INSIDE S C O O P O N 5 2 W AY S T O H AV E A N AW E S O M E TIME WITH YOUR KIDS.
might not make it through a two-hour-long performance of The Nutcracker, but that doesn’t mean you can’t introduce them to professional theater. The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati is beloved for its one-hour performances for kids ages 4–12. Beauty and the Beast Jr. brings Belle and Gaston to the small stage on Oct. 17–19 and 25, complete with dancing flatware and singing furniture. The Taft Theatre, 317 E. Fifth St., downtown, (513) 569-8080, thechildrenstheatre.com
I S F O R C L A S S E S What’s
by A LY S S A B R A N D T, A M Y B R O W N L E E , JENNY BURMAN, SARAH MULLINS, ERIN PRUS, R J S M I T H , A M A N D A B O Y D W A LT E R S , and L I Z B E L L Y O U N G
photographs by A A R O N M . C O N W AY / O M S
more fun than crafting with recycled toy parts? Happen’s Toy Lab in Northside helps your little designers channel their inner creative genius for just $10. Or learn the magic of fused glass at Brazee Street Studios. Ready for something beyond finger paint and Play-Doh? On the second and fourth Saturday of each month, Funke Fired Arts offers family-friendly open wheelthrowing for young potters. happeninc.com, brazeestreetstudios. com, funkefiredarts.com
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IS FOR DISCOVERY GARDEN Where can you peek into a fairy garden, bounce across a swinging bridge over a wild flower-filled ravine, and wander through a caterpillar tunnel of willow. How about Highfield Discovery Garden? This kidfocused, 12-acre attraction at Glenwood Gardens is actually seven smaller gardens, i n c lu d i n g a F ro g a n d To ad G a r d e n , G r a n d m a ’s s c e n t garden, and more. Kids will love the hidden secrets and fun activities—especially the 25foot tree with an interactive tree house! 10397 Springfield Pike, Woodlawn, (513) 771-8733, greatparks.org
I S F O R E N G I N E E R Many a frustrated mom has wished to send her child to the moon, but the summer camps at iSPACE actually can—if you use your imagination. The nonprofit focuses on STEM skills (science, technology, engineering, and math), creating a variety of programs for students year-round, but the week-long camps are the ce n te r p i e ce. Yo u n ge r k i d s build machines with DUPLO blocks, middle-graders get an introduction to robotics, and those in grade 8 and above can launch rockets—and more. Sounds out-of-this-world. 3254 E. Kemper Rd., Sharonville, (513) 612-5786, ispacescience.org
IS FOR FIRE MUSEUM Ring the fire bell (but only once!), slide down the fire pole (as much as you want, but give your kid a chance too), and climb into the cab of a modern fire engine at the Fire Museum of Greater Cincinnati. In 1853, Cincinnati
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THE JELLYFISH GALLERY AT NEWPORT AQUARIUM
had the first paid professional fire fighters in the country and the museum’s main floor is full of historic artifacts, including medieval-looking rescue tools and vintage fire trucks dating back to the 1880s. The museum h as la u n c h e d a J u n i o r F i re Fighter’s Club; members can participate in exclusive activities like firefighter visits and Lego days. Need more? $150 gets you a birthday party for up to 40 kids. 315 W. Court St., downtown, (513) 6215553, cincyfiremuseum.com
I S F O R G A R D E N I N G If you build it they will come. The Civic Garden Center offers youth programming in seven of its open-gate children’s gardens, including the newly renovated Race Street Community Garden in OTR. Kids get to sow, hoe, weed, and harvest vegetables while learning respect for nature and healthy eating habits. Says executive director Vickie Ciotti, “Things really get rolling once school is out, but kids come running as soon as they see one of our trucks pull up to the garden in the spring.” 2715 Reading Rd., Avondale, (513) 2210981, civicgardencenter.org
THEY MAY NOT BE DRESSED FOR IT, BUT CYCLOCROSS IS IN THEIR FUTURE.
IS FOR HORSEBACK RIDING When the little cowpoke is ready to move beyond pony rides, check out one of the riding centers around town—from Derbyshire Stables to Winton Woods Riding Center and Muddy Water Ranch. Whether you’re looking for one-on-one lessons in the ring, rides in the wide open, or horse therapy for a special needs child, there’s a bridle path. Derbyshire Stables, 7730 Camp Rd., Camp Dennison, (513) 675-1547, derby shirestables.com; Winton Woods Riding Center, 10073 Daly Rd., Winton Woods, (513) 931-3057, greatparks.org; Muddy Water Ranch, 10129 Mill Rd., Mt. Healthy, (513) 522-8545, muddywaterranch.org
I S F O R J E L LY F I S H After a while, any aquarium’s oversized fish tanks can start looking the same. The Newport Aquarium keeps things interesting by placing the Jellyfish Gallery right between the Shark Tank and the Coral Reef, which makes it a great spot to pause and refresh. The exhibit—the largest of its kind in the Midwest—is a dark room with glowing vertical glass tubes where more than a hundred jellyfish float, drift, and swim together in a trippy, scifi-style ballet. Find a seat, park your brood, and do some jellygazing. 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, (859) 4913467, newportaquarium.com
I S F O R I N T E R N AT I O N A L STORY HOUR So maybe your heir isn’t ready for Mandarin Chinese. But how about some mild immersion-style language learning? On the first and second Saturday and third Friday of each month, Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore hosts an international story hour starting at 10:30 a.m., conducted in either German, Spanish, or French (in that order). It’s our favorite low-impact way to introduce monosyllabic munchkins to a whole new world of vocabularies, stories, and songs. 3054 Madison Rd., Oakley, (513) 7312665, bluemanateebooks.com
IS FOR KIDS ON BIKES Cyclocross for kids? Yep. Before you balk, just imagine the fun for a young cyclist. Off the paved city streets and into the wild blue yonder, riders learn how to brave bumpy terrain, jump fallen logs, and gain confidence on two wheels. Kids on Bikes provides all this with top-notch coaching by the Cincinnati Cyclocross crew. It’s best for the 7–14 crowd (although younger is OK, if they’re off training wheels). And parents are encouraged to ride right alongside. cincinnaticyclocross.com/kob
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I S F O R L I B R A R Y Ohio is GET CREATIVE AT THE UNMUSEUM AT THE CONTEMPORARY ARTS CENTER.
known nationwide for its wellfunded and well-loved library sys te m s , a n d C i n c i n n at i i s no slouch when it comes to cultivating our youngest readers with programs as diverse as Toddler Story Time, Tuesday Terror Comic Edition for teens, Lego Club, and Tween Lit Club, to name just a few in Hamilton and Clermont counties. When in doubt, try Family Story Time: Because when was the last time Mom and Dad got to snuggle up and have a story read to them? Bring your stuffies! cincinnatilibrary.org, clermont.lib.oh.us
I S F O R M U S E U M Where to begin? The Queen City is wellstocked with museums and programming designed for hungry little minds. Consider the American Sign Museum, where there’s a working neon shop—a hoot for all ages; Duke E n e rgy C h i ld re n’s M u s e u m at t h e C i n c i n n at i M u s e u m Ce n te r, w h i c h i s a l l a b o u t hands-on; the UnMuseum at the Contemporary Arts Center (where children will enjoy the building itself); and don’t forget that the Cincinnati Art Museum is always free and has a long list of kid and family programming, l i ke Wee Wed n es d ays a n d Culture Kids. Signmuseum.org, cincymuseum.org, contemporaryartscenter.org, cincinnatiartmuseum.org
I S F O R N U R S E R Y Ta k e your wee ones to visit some new arrivals at the Cincinnati Zoo. Most of the cuddly new additions will be found a lo n g s i d e t h e i r m o m m i e s within their habitats throughout
the zoo. But the nursery, housed within the Spaulding Children’s Zoo, is for newborns that need ext ra T LC. Yo u m i g h t a ls o catch a glimpse of Blakely, the nursery’s resident companion dog. 3400 Vine St., Avondale, (513) 2814700, cincinnatizoo.org
I S F O R O M N I M A X With its five-story curved screen and surround sound, the Omnimax Theater at Cincinnati Museum Center will take you and your kids around the world without leaving Cincinnati. Swing with exotic monkeys in Island of Le m u rs : M ad a gas ca r (J u n e through September), brave the blizzards in Shakelton’s Antarctic Adventure, journey from source to sea in Mystery of the Nile (July), face grizzly bears and geysers in Yellowstone (August), and climb to the summit in Everest (September). B u t i f t h i s wo r ld j u s t i s n’ t far enough, be sure to catch Hidden Universe (June through September) for a journey deep into outer space. All of that without leaving the tristate. 1301 Western Ave., Queensgate, (513) 287-7000, cincymuseum.org
I S F O R P L AY S C A P E A beautiful pastiche of forest, stream, wetland, and field, the Marge and Charles Schott Nature PlayScape at Rowe Woods is well-kept and quite new, having opened in 2011. The 1.6-acre preserve is part of the Cincinnati Nature Center (which also offers a nature preschool), and was designed to give young ones a safe place to traipse, splash, run, and wallow in the great outdoors. Just like virtual reality, only it’s real. 4949 Tealtown Rd., Milford, (513) 8311711, cincynature.org
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IS FOR QUIET SPOT Quiet is as quiet does. That could mean a dreamy stroll through the Labyrinth at Smale Riverfront Park—a “walking meditation” spiral that has no walls—or a peaceful lunch in the almostsecret Children’s Garden at the Main Branch Library downtown. For more quiet fun, kids classes at Modo Yoga at the ColumbiaTu s c u l u m a n d N o r t h e r n Kentucky locations include crafts, yoga-themed games, and age-appropriate stretches. mysmaleriverfrontpark.org, cincinnati library.org, cincinnati.modoyoga.com
I S F O R R A I N Y D AY P L AY Four places to beat the bad-weather doldrums: E n te r T RA I N m e n t J u n ct i o n , in West Chester, boasts “the world’s largest indoor model train display” as well as other train-themed displays and activities. There’s no need for indoor voices at Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park in Springdale, where kiddos can literally bounce off the walls. Ozo Play Café is designed for 6-and-under, and
the price of admission covers the whole day. And at the Mad Potter (in Mason and Madeira), young ones get to glaze their own premade pottery—and it’s for keeps. skyzone.com, entertrainmentjunction. com, ozoplaycafe.com, madpotter cincinnati.com, madpottermason.com
IS FOR STORYTELLING Wo r d P la y i s d e d i c ate d to helping kids ages 5–18 find their voices. The Northside organization offers after-school tutoring; weekday workshops on storytelling, music, and movement; and writing groups. Junior and senior high school students can learn the art of bookbinding in the Monday afternoon Bookbinder’s Guild, or join local film critic TT SternEnzi and other budding movie buffs in the WatchRightNow film workshop. And if you’ve got a youngster who’s into cool gadgets, Wordplay’s fleet of vintage typewriters (maintained by Xavier professor and collector Richard Polt) is something to write home about. 4041 Hamilton Ave., Northside, (513) 260-8129, wordplaycincy.org
I S F O R T EA PA RT Y Perk up a boring day with an afternoon c u p p a at Th e B o n B o n e r i e Tearoom. Or, when a special occasion strikes, round up a crew of friends for an outing. You’ll get a tiered cake stand stocked with treats sized for the little ones, from mini sandwiches and sliced fruit to fanciful sweets that are themed to shows at the Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati. 2030 Madison Rd., O’Bryonville, (513) 321-3399, bonbonerie.com
I S F O R U N I V E R S E It’s easy for kids to feel a sense of wonder—and far less so for their harried keepers. Get down on their level by looking up at the largest full moon of the year on August 9, 2014, from 7–10 p.m. for the annual Supermoon event. Or see the largest collection of meteorites in the tristate on November 1, 2014, ($10/adult, $5/child) at the Meet a Meteorite event. 3489 Observatory Pl., Mt. Lookout, (513) 321-5186, cincinnatiobservatory.org
photograph courtesy ENTERTRAINMENT JUNCTION
ALL ABOARD AT ENTERTRAINMENT JUNCTION
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TEATIME AT THE BONBONERIE TEAROOM
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WHAT, YOU’VE NEVER BEEN TO A GEOCACHING PARTY?
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IS FOR VOLUNTEERING There are plenty of opportunities to be of service to others in the community. Just keep in mind that most volunteer gigs require that participants younger than 13 or 14 be supervised by a parent. Outdoor explorers can connect with Great Parks of Hamilton County by participating in the Clean Sweep of the Great Miami River, collecting litter and debris along the river on October 25, 2014. Matthew 25: Ministries welcomes volunteers of all ages to help sort, count, and package donated goods. Nascent chefs can visit the Ronald McDonald House kitchen and prepare snacks for guest families. For more ideas, try the United Way’s Volunteer Connection website, uwgc.volunteermatch.org, or VolunteerMatch.org greatparks.org/volunteer, M25M.org, rmhcincinnati.org
photograph courtesy CINCINNATI PARK BOARD
I S F O R WAT E R PA R KS If a seaside escape is on your mind but not your calendar, get away closer to home. Kiddies can splash in the wave pool without sand in their britches or channel their inner surfer on the Pipeline Paradise at Kings Island’s Soak City. Race down the Midwest’s only water coaster, the Big Kahuna, or take a plunge on the Soaring Eagle Zip Line at The Beach Waterpark. But don’t let your dreams of paradise end when the warm weather does; enjoy an indoor oasis with the water park at the Great Wolf Lodge.
IS FOR X MARKS THE S P O T When you geocache, the whole world is a treasure hunt. By using a GPS device or a geocaching app like the one by Groundspeak ($9.99 on iTunes) you follow coordinates and clues to a hidden object (usually a small container holding a log list) or a natural feat u re . G e o ca c h i n g g i ve s p u r p o s e to a h i ke , ca n b e done anywhere, and combines nature, problem solving, and technology. “If you’re in one of our parks, I guarantee there’s a cache nearby,” says Amy Roell, outdoor education director for Great Parks of Hamilton Co u n ty. M i a m i Wh i tewate r Forest and Mitchell Memorial Forest are particularly rife with caches that range from easy finds to complex. geocaching.com, greatparks.org
I S F O R YA A A A A A AY ! Cincinnati springtime is glorious, so get those young’uns outside for some old-fashioned frolicking: Situated on a former limestone quarry, the Twin La ke s p layg ro u n d at E d e n Park has equipment designed to look like logs and boulders.
Terrific fossil hunting on the hills surrounding the playground is the secret cherry on top. Upriver there’s California Woods Nature Preserve. Its shallow creek is dotted with pockets of smooth clay that’s oozy enough to squish yet dense enough for kids to form into small pots or shapes. Eden Park Playground, 950 Eden Park Dr.; California Woods Nature Preserve, 5400 Kellogg Ave., cincinnatiparks.com
IS FOR ZONE If your kids need a 7th inning stretch the next time you’re at a Reds game, head to the Kroger Fan Zone. Redesigned in 2012 and located on the Terrace level of the ballpark (along the first base side), the Zone lets children 14 and under get their big league on by using Wiffle balls and bats and rounding the bases on a new cushioned synthetic field. There’s also a playground and the Reds Heads Kids Club Clubhouse (membership is $25). Adjacent to the Fan Zone, at the south end of the Hall of Fame building, are the Hall of Fame Batting Cages. A $5 donation gets you a rental bat, helmet, and 10 swings. 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, downtown, (513) 381-REDS, cincinnati.reds.mlb.com
THE PLAYGROUND AT EDEN PARK IS INSPIRED BY NATIVE TREES.
Kings Island, 6300 Kings Island Dr., Mason, (513) 754-5700, visitkingsisland. com; The Beach Waterpark, 2590 Water Park Dr., Mason, (513) 398-7946, thebeachwaterpark.com; Great Wolf Lodge, 2501 Great Wolf Dr., Mason, (513) 459-8885, greatwolf.com/mason
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PLAY From graphic prints to cool stripes to classic plaid, these pintsized fashions keep Cincinnati kids in style. Photographs by RYAN KURTZ Hair by KENDALL STOLZ Styling by TAMIA STINSON Models courtesy WINGS MODEL MANAGEMENT
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GOING GRAPHIC Left, top to bottom ON LIAM: Tea Casablanca mosaic polo, $29.50, and twill shorts, $32, The Spotted Goose Co. / ON TEAGAN: Tucker + Tate Oscar T-shirt, $22.50, and Lyle print cotton shorts, $22; Converse Chuck Taylor double-strap sneakers, $27; Loose Leaf Eyewear Retro sunglasses, $10; Nordstrom. / ON AMYAH: Tea Rabat tile wrap neck dress, $29.50; Everbloom headband, $16; The Spotted Goose Co. / This page ON JULIE: Tucker + Tate geo-print dress and bloomers, $36, Nordstrom.
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WALK THE LINE ON TEAGAN: Mini Boden Reverse Applique T-shirt, $20; Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers, $31.95; Nordstrom. Tea Seaport Stripe beach shorts, $28.50, The Spotted Goose Co. Cotton cap, $5.95, H&M. / ON LIAM: Mini Boden Stripy T-shirt, $18; Tucker + Tate ribbed waistband jeans, $36; Converse Chuck Taylor double-strap sneakers, $27; Nordstrom.
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CANDY STRIPERS ON AMYAH: Bit’z Kids stripe jersey dress, $29, The Spotted Goose Co. / ON JULIE: Tucker + Tate peplum top, $22, and print leggings, $16, Nordstrom. Almirah five-tassel necklace, $12, The Spotted Goose Co.
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SET TO SAIL This page ON AMYAH: Florence Eiseman pique dress with anchor, $70, Castle House. / ON JULIE: Florence Eiseman pique knit tennis dress, $82, Castle House. White shoes, $9.95, H&M. / ON TEAGAN: Ralph Lauren striped oxford shirt, $39.50; Kitestrings plaid shorts, $44; Urban Sunday suspenders, $18; brown Sperry top-siders, $62; Castle House. Fedora, $7.95, H&M. / Right ON LIAM: E-Land seersucker blazer with sailboats, $84, Castle House. White shirt, $12.95, H&M. Urban Sunday Norfolk bow tie, $25, The Spotted Goose Co.
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PLAID TIDINGS Left ON AMYAH: Peek Collette plaid cotton dress, $38, Nordstrom. / This page ON TEAGAN: Mini Boden Washed Summer sport shirt, $32, and Summer cargo shorts, $32; Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers, $31.95; Nordstrom. / ON LIAM: Tea Madras plaid shirt, $32, Simple Stripe cardigan, $45, and twill shorts, $32, The Spotted Goose Co. Shoes, $19.95, H&M.
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FOOD FIVE NOTED CINCINNATI CHEFS TALK ABOUT HOW THEY BALANCE WORK AND FAMILY LIFE, AND SHARE THEIR SECRETS FOR RAISING HEALTHY EATERS. BY BRYN MOOTH PHOTOGRAPHS BY AARON M. CONWAY / OMS
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CRISTIAN PIETOSO
UPHOLDING AN ITALIAN HERITAGE “Food is such a big part of our culture in Italy, even the simple stuff,” says Cristian Pietoso, co-owner and executive chef of Via Vite downtown. “What’s seasonal? What’s good? I want my children to have that experience.” Pietoso was born in Italy and is the son of another successful Cincinnati restaurateur, Nicola Pietoso of Nicola’s in Over-the-Rhine. He and his wife, Amanda, partner to manage the restaurant and to raise two daughters: Ilaria, 3½, and Valentina, 1½. Because time as a family is always a challenge, the four of them eat an early dinner together three or four days a week, sitting at the restaurant’s chef’s table while the cooks bustle about prepping for the night’s service. The girls eat what their parents eat. “We don’t give them chicken fingers or French fries,”
Pietoso says. “Amanda is very interested in eating healthful food. My children were eating chicken parmigiana and drinking Pellegrino; we made their baby formula with Pellegrino. “Parents tend to make [separate] things to please their children because it’s easy,” he continues. “But you’re leading them away from what they’ll like to eat at some point.” Feeding young children grown-up food doesn’t have to be complicated. For the Pietoso girls, dinner might be something as easy as pasta with sauce or a little garlic and olive oil. “Valentina eats like an adult,” Pietoso says. “When she wakes up, she’s cranky until she eats—literally, you see her blooming as she eats. She gets smiley, softer. When llaria eats, she gets distracted easily. She eats like my mother does; her meals are like 2½ hours long.” By enjoying leisurely meals, speaking Italian at home, and introducing their daughters to simple, seasonal dishes, the Pietosos are recreating a bit of Cristian’s own upbringing.
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JACKSON ROUSE
PACKING GOURMET LUNCHES Jackson Rouse has worked in professional kitchens for more than 20 years, and he played in a punk rock band for nearly that long. Until, that is, Quinn came along. Quinn is the 2½-year-old daughter of Rouse and his wife, Meg (who, at the time of this writing, was eight months pregnant with their second child). The late-night lifestyle of a rock musician/chef gave way to early morning wake-ups once fatherhood rolled around. “Staying out late makes the morning rough when a kid gets up at 6:30,” he says. With Jackson working late nights at The Rookwood, where he’s been executive chef for about 18 months, and Meg pulling shifts of three days on and four days off at Mercy Health Anderson Hospital, finding time when both of their schedules overlap for a family dinner with
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Quinn takes planning. “I want to make the absolute most of the time I spend with my daughter,” Rouse says. Rouse manages Quinn’s morning routine: getting her up, fixing breakfast, and packing lunch to take to the sitter. “The first meal of the day is when she eats the most,” he says. “She loves eggs any way. She gets Blue Oven Bakery toast, a whole avocado, some sort of fruit. She eats that every day, and she always asks for it.” You’ve got to admire a dad who slices artisanal Blue Oven Bakery bread for his kid’s toast. “If I was raised on Blue Oven bread, I’d be a much better person,” Rouse jokes. While Quinn usually eats a healthy and hearty breakfast, Rouse says, the other meals of the day are unpredictable. “At 2½, eating is so secondary for her, and we have good days and bad days,” he says. “But getting her into a routine is key. You can expose them to anything right when they start eating solid food.”
DAN WRIGHT
KEEPING IT FRESH The Wrights are a threerestaurant, two-kid family. Dan and Lana Wright run a growing local food enterprise with the popular Over-the-Rhine spots Abigail Street and Senate (the third, Pontiac, is coming soon), and they parent 2-year-old twin boys Oliver and Knox. Both Dan and Lana work in the business (she’s director of operations, he’s executive chef), so they essentially trade off shifts, with Lana working afternoons and Dan nights. Dan’s “dad time” is in the morning. The daily routine includes one of the boys “helping” to make coffee: grinding the beans, pouring the water, and pushing the button on the machine. Oliver and Knox chow down on mostly fruit for breakfast, but their preferences differ. “One of the boys likes crazy stuff,” Wright says. “He’ll eat sheets of nori, he’ll eat everything. The other likes pretzels, avocados, hummus— and that’s pretty much it.” L i ke t h e R o u s e s , t h e Wrights prepared homemade baby food: “Lana made purees of roasted fruit and vegetables like kohlrabi,” Wright says. “If you get them accustomed to trying things early, they can make their own decisions about what they like. I don’t want my kids to be the ones who eat only cheese pizza and chicken nuggets.” Wright, who says his parents were great cooks and who cooked for his family as a youngster, says his preference for feeding his boys whole, organic, homemade foods comes from his background as much as his profession. “Being in the industry did influence what we give our kids,” he says. “But I’m not about eating crap. I don’t eat food out of a jar, so why would I make my kids eat food out of a jar? I want to make stuff from scratch.”
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JOSE SALAZAR
A BUSY FAMILY AND A NEW RESTAURANT For Jose Salazar, the newborn in his family is his restaurant, Salazar, which opened in Over-the-Rhine in December 2013. Salazar isn’t new to the business, though; he worked at Per Se and Jean-Georges in New York, and then moved to Cincinnati as executive chef at The Palace before opening his namesake spot. Not surprisingly, this latest Salazar addition is consuming much of his attention these days, so spending time with his wife, Ann, and their 6-year-old son, Jonathan, takes planning. Like the other chefs, Salazar enjoys his “dad time” in the morning and on Sunday, when the restaurant’s closed. Despite having a foodie father, Jonathan isn’t super interested at mealtime. “He’s 6, so he’s picky,” Salazar says. “He likes salad, he likes vegetables a lot, and loves grilled chicken or steak—he’s not a fish eater, to my chagrin— and he eats a lot of yogurt and healthy grains. But he’s not very adventurous; he has his favorites.” While Jonathan is only marginally aware of what his dad does for a living, he is interested in playing in the kitchen at home. He loves making pasta dough and baking cookies with his grandmother, Salazar says, anything where he can get his fingers into the bowl. In fact, that’s a great way to introduce kids to cooking: having them help stir or mix with their hands. Like the Pietosos, the Salazars don’t prepare a separate meal for Jonathan when they sit down to dinner. “He’s seen us eat good food, and he’s grown up with that, so he asks for about 25 percent of what we eat on a normal basis,” Salazar says. And that’s shaping his eating habits in a positive way, he says.
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JIM CORNWELL
SHIFTING GEARS FOR FAMILY Jim Cornwell routinely bikes to work as executive chef and co-owner of Dutch’s Bar, Bottle Shop, and Larder in East Hyde Park. Cornwell shifted his career path in order to make time to be a parent (with his wife, Nina), to 9-year-old Isa and 7-year-old James. He left the restaurant scene and partnered with Dutch’s co-owners Pam and Jay Ashmore. “It’s 100 percent the reason I wanted to do a butcher shop and be open from 10 to 6,” he says. “I couldn’t pass up this golden opportunity.” While Dutch’s has evolved into more than just a daytime retail operation (the kitchen serves the adjacent bar with cured meats, burgers, soups, and appetizers), Cornwell continues to put family first. He and his chef de cuisine alternate weeks of working days and nights.
The day shift means Cornwell can bike home at 3 p.m. and take James and Isa to sports. Isa and James like to help out in the kitchen, and of course it doesn’t hurt that they get to eat the products that dad brings home from work. Given the family’s busy schedule, Cornwell tries to prepare a week’s worth of meals at a time. “I do a lot of big-batch stuff, so I’ll make five gallons of bolognese, and we’ll portion it out and freeze it. I bring home the good Parmigiano-Reggiano. They love it.” Cornwell is passionate about teaching his kids about food—where it comes from, why ingredients matter, and how meals fuel their bodies. “My kids know a lot about food,” he says. “I tell them what this food will do and what the nutrients will do in their bodies. I talk to them about why it’s important to buy the kind of stuff we sell [at Dutch’s], and why we shop farmers’ markets.”
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CHEF RECIPES
WEEKEND SOUR CREAM WAFFLES FROM JIM CORNWELL
THE CORNWELL KIDS HELP STIR THE BATTER AND MAKE THE WAFFLES, AND THEY CUT UP FRUIT TO PUT ON TOP.
GARDEN BURGERS FROM JACKSON ROUSE
“THIS MAKES A LOT, AROUND 20 TO 25 PATTIES AT ABOUT 6 TO 7 OUNCES,” ROUSE SAYS. “FOR THE KIDS, WE MAKE THEM AROUND 3 OUNCES. WE FREEZE AND COOK AS NEEDED. YOU CAN COOK THEM FROM FROZEN, OR WE THAW THEM OUT AND COOK THEM IN A CAST-IRON SKILLET.”
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INGREDIENTS 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted 5 times 1 tsp. baking powder 1 /8 tsp. salt 1 ½ tsp. sugar
1 tsp. baking soda 3 eggs, separated 2 cups sour cream 3 Tbsp. butter, melted
PREPARATION In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. In a medium bowl, beat egg yolks until pale, then add the sour cream and melted butter. Stir the yolk mixture quickly into the dry ingredients. Whip egg whites to stiff peaks and very gently fold into the batter. Preheat and spray vegetable oil onto waffle iron. Put about 1 cup of batter onto the iron for about 2–3 minutes. Serves 4–6.
INGREDIENTS 6½ cups chickpeas 6 cups cooked wheat berries 1 cup parsley, stems removed 1 cup roasted garlic 1½ cups caramelized onion ½ cup tahini ¾ cup soy sauce 1 /8 cup sherry vinegar 1 Tbsp. black pepper
2 Tbsp. sriracha sauce 3.5 eggs (or sub silken tofu, see below)* 6 cups panko, plus more if needed fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper *To substitute for eggs we recommend using pureed soft (silken) tofu. One egg equals ¼ cup tofu.
PREPARATION Combine all ingredients except panko. Puree in batches in a food processor, adding panko at the end. Burgers should be firm, easily forming into balls and not sticky. If sticky, add more panko. Let sit 24 hours. Form into patties or links, using wax paper between patties. Freeze until ready to cook. To cook, warm a bit of olive or vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sauté patties until browned and cooked through, 5–7 minutes per side.
INGREDIENTS 1 pint blueberries 4 bananas apple or orange juice
ROASTED BANANA & BLUEBERRY PUREE FROM DAN AND LANA WRIGHT
“BOTH MY KIDS WENT NUTS FOR THIS,” WRIGHT SAYS.
PREPARATION Rinse 1 pint of blueberries; peel 4 bananas and cut them into large chunks. Place the fruit in a roasting pan and bake at 350° for 15–20 minutes, until the fruit is soft and juicy. Let the fruit cool before combining it in a blender or Vitamix. Puree until smooth. Add a little apple or orange juice if the mixture needs sweetening or thinning. The puree will keep in the refrigerator for 2–3 days and can be frozen. For older kids, combine the roasted fruit puree with vanilla yogurt and top with crumbled granola.
INGREDIENTS 8 oz., fresh baby spinach 6 eggs pinch of salt extra virgin olive oil
SPINACH FRITTATA FROM CRISTIAN PIETOSO
“THIS IS A SUPER EASY WAY TO GET KIDS TO EAT THEIR GREENS,” PIETOSO SAYS.
SPAGHETTI WITH ARTICHOKES
FROM ANN AND JOSE SALAZAR
THIS RECIPE IS ONE OF 6-YEAR-OLD JONATHAN SALAZAR’S FAVORITE DINNERS.
prosciutto cotto (Italian ham) grated Parmesan cheese pepper to taste for adults
PREPARATION Puree egg and spinach in blender. Add salt to taste. Heat a little olive oil in a nonstick skillet; add the egg-spinach mixture and cook until the eggs are still a little jiggly (they’ll continue to cook as you take the skillet off the stove). In another pan, sauté a couple slices of prosciutto in a little olive oil until they’re crispy. Lay the prosciutto over a frittata and top it with grated Parmesan cheese. For the adults, add pepper and a little shaved truffle.
INGREDIENTS 1 pound dried spaghetti 1 small-medium Spanish onion, diced 2–3 cloves garlic, minced 1 14-oz. jar artichokes, cut into chunks, liquid reserved
3 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil 2 Tbsp. fresh parsley 2 Tbsp. salt, plus more to taste fresh ground black pepper to taste parmesan, grated to taste
PREPARATION In a large pot, bring about 6 quarts of water with 2 tablespoons of salt to a boil. Place pasta in the boiling water and cook for about 10 minutes or until al dente. Meanwhile, cook the onions and garlic over medium heat in a large skillet. Season with a little salt and fresh ground pepper. After 4–5 minutes, add the artichokes, the liquid reserved from the jar, and about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Reduce heat to low. Transfer the pasta to the artichoke mixture and raise heat to medium. Cook the pasta and artichokes together for about 2 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Add some more of the cooking water if it is a bit thick. Fold in the fresh parsley. Grate fresh Parmesan and a small drizzle of virgin olive oil and serve. Serves 6.
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Mixing Ac 72
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THE PRAMUK FAMILY HAS PUT A HAPPY FACE ON THE POSTEARTHQUAKE ADOPTION OF TWO HAITIAN CHILDREN. BY BRENT COLEMAN PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEREMY KRAMER
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A
A small sign tacked above the back porch of Chris and Lauri Pramuk’s house in St. Bernard reads: “The Abbey.” It is not a traditional abbey, the kind with nuns and priests. But it is a community of faithful people, a family of six bound by shared experiences and the love of two special parents and their four individualistic children the couple calls “the mini-mes and the chocolate chips.”
Isaiah, 16, and Grace, 10, are the “minimes,” named for the dwarf sidekick who looks just like Dr. Evil in the Austin Powers movies. Isaiah takes after his father, Xavier University associate professor of theology Chris Pramuk, 49. Both are articulate redheads who choose their words with great care and deliver them with conviction. Grace is blue-eyed, blond, and outgoing like her mother, Lauri Pramuk, 43, a pediatrician at Group Health in Kenwood. They are the talkers, the energizers in the family. The Pramuks’ “chocolate chips” are who make the family’s story unique. Sophia, 11, and Henry, 5, are from Haiti, one-time orphans who were whisked away from their impoverished homeland just 12 days after surviving an earthquake that devastated their Caribbean island on Jan. 12, 2010.
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They were among about 55 Haitian children flown to Denver 12 days later, where their new families anxiously waited to hold them, photograph them, and love them forever more, through sickness at first, but then in health thereafter. For Chris, Lauri, Isaiah, and Grace Pramuk, along with about 20 of Lauri’s Colorado family members, “It’s going to be a favorite memory forever,” says Lauri, who grew up in Grand Junction. First to be found in the chaotic crowd that night was Sophia. Lauri recalls that she was bigeyed and appeared shell-shocked. She was dressed in an oversized sweatshirt, tights, and a funny hat she had been given by volunteers during a stopover in Orlando. “She still wears that hat every January 24th,” Lauri says. “It’s her ‘gotcha’ hat.”
SURVIVING THE STORM. Just 12 days after an earthquake devastated their homeland of Haiti in January 2010, Sophia and Henry Pramuk left for their new home in America.
Almost 7-year-old Sophia looked fairly well on the outside, but inside she was malnourished and infected with parasites. She had scars on her eyebrow and chin, permanent reminders of her falling off the three-stack bunk beds at the Portau-Prince orphanage where she lived for three years after her father died. She had no memories of her mother, but before those she had of Haiti faded, she shared with her new family what she remembered of her father—that he always had a smile on his face and wore a straw hat, and that they had a mud floor, and one time he killed a rat. That hard life, however, has become a good life, and Sophia is quick to confirm just how happy she is to be a Pramuk and share a big bedroom with her “mini-me” sister. The second “chocolate chip” is Henry, whose adjustment to America has been smoother and faster than Sophia’s, possibly because he was a cleaner slate, so to speak, at just shy of 1 year old the day he came to the States. That meeting took a nerve-racking hour to occur after the plane landed because Henry was hard to find in the airport crowd. But finally, there he was in the arms of a Frenchman who had volunteered to chaperone him during the long flight from Florida. “He was so
dear,” Lauri recalls of the Frenchman. “He came over to me and asked ‘Is this your little kid?’ I was bawling. He was so sweet and said to me ‘Henry is such a neat kid that I fell in love with him.’ ” The Pramuks did as well, but that love was tested immediately when Lauri realized how sick Henry was. She confirmed with medical staff members on the flight—physicians she had trained with at Regis University in Denver where she first met Chris—and they agreed: Henry had bronchiolitis and an obvious case of scabies, and needed emergency attention immediately. Chris and Lauri rushed off with Henry to the ER. It was a dramatic start to what has been an up-and-down—but mostly wonderful—international adoption experience. Chris Pramuk is from Lexington, Kentucky, where his parents, Jack and Gladys, still live. One of six siblings, he was studying to be a priest when he met Lauri at Regis. She stole his heart, he changed his path, and they were married 20 years ago this June. He had 12 years of parenting experience when he and his pediatrician wife decided to adopt. He recalls that his parents were concerned about their son taking in two Haitian orphans. “They were nervous,” Chris says. “They asked if we knew what we were getting into because
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it was a little exotic to have two Haitians come into our family. But from the very first they’ve been very welcoming.” And Chris and Lauri had done their homework and felt prepared to tackle the psychological and physical demands of doubling the size of their brood and forming a biracial family with non-English-speaking kids. Assimilating into a new culture has been a challenge for Sophia, as it has for Chris and Lauri. Just days before coming to America, Sophia resided in an orphanage of 133 kids where nannies
“
“Life as a biracial family…overall it has been very positive,” Chris says. “People are curious, and it has been endearing with people in the grocery store.”
PORTRAIT OF A FAMILY. Sophia, Isaiah, Grace, Lauri, Chris, and Henry Pramuk in the backyard of their home in St. Bernard.
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rubbed toothpaste under their noses to mask the smell of dead bodies. Yes, Sophia survived the 7.0 earthquake that killed more than 230,000 people, but she faced a huge hurdle to learn English, American customs, and the rules of her new home. The latter has been difficult at times, Lauri says. Sophia doesn’t like to be supervised. She tends to do what she wants to do and ends up learning right from wrong by experience. “She makes some bad choices and she’s mischievous,” Lauri says. “This is very common with adoption.” Sophia keeps her feelings to herself, but her body language—the way she looks at you or contorts her mouth—says a lot. Her teachers and her parents have found out, however, that she will express herself in writing, which is something she learned amazingly quickly, Lauri says. Sophia carries a B average and is well-adjusted socially at Nativity School in Pleasant Ridge, where she was considered a “rock star,” when she started there, Lauri says. She will be a fifth-grader this fall, and like Grace, she plays the piano and with the family’s fluffy cat, Rue. Henry’s hurdles have been mostly physical, the Pramuks say. He was at the developmental level of a 6-month-old child when he arrived. He would sit and
watch and smile, but couldn’t crawl or roll. He wouldn’t eat solid food. He made no verbal sounds and failed four hearing tests. Oddly, he slept sitting up. It turns out, Henry’s doctor-mom says, that his adenoids were so inflamed that they prevented him from breathing if he was not upright. They were removed and tubes were inserted in his ears to help his hearing. Henry also had lazy eyes that required surgery and have to be checked four times a year. He is at least a year behind developmentally and requires weekly speech and occupational therapy. The happy ending is that Henry initially feasted on the nourishment he got from the bottle. He ate his first solid food—club crackers—two months into his American experience and never looked back. He grew rapidly and began walking. Today, Henry is a healthy, happy 5-year-old boy who loves scrambled eggs (he can eat up to six in three minutes, his dad says), is the size of a kid three years his senior, and is an active playmate of Isaiah despite their 11-year age gap. Isaiah, the Pramuks say, has been like a third parent for the past four and a half years. He understands what being from Haiti means and that energetic Henry needs someone to join him in mock sword fighting, ball games, or jumping on the backyard trampoline. His parents say Isaiah is very mature and responsible for his age. “We call him our recycled child because it seems like he has been on the planet forever,” Lauri says. “Isaiah has been very generous during the transition. We’ve really leaned on him a lot.” And that includes giving up some of his extracurricular activities to babysit. It has allowed the Pramuks to have date nights—a.k.a. “time to process,” Chris says—such as dinner over a bottle of wine at Betta’s Italian
AS LAURI AND CHRIS PRAMUK WERE preparing to take their first vacation alone without their four children—a week on the Central California coast to
Oven in Evanston, Gordo’s in Norwood, or Enoteca Emilia in O’Bryonville. Isaiah says he doesn’t mind babysitting because he earns money to spend doing things with his girlfriend, activities that will be easier when he gets his driver’s license this summer. “I can’t imagine my life without [Sophia and Henry]” Isaiah says. “It’s a lot busier around here, but other than that we’re a normal family.” The Pramuks credit much of their international adoption success to the fact that one or the other of them is at home every day of the week and that they get a lot of help from their friends and outside resources. Lauri works Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, while Chris teaches at Xavier on Tuesdays and Thursdays. They’ve never hired childcare. They prepare short-order breakfasts for their children every day, get them off to school by car, van, or carpool and have dinner together as a family. And they rely on a neighbor, Diana Schildmeyer, to watch Henry some days so Chris can grade papers in his office on the third floor of their brick American foursquare. And in addition to many family members, friends, physicians, therapists, and teachers, the family has received valuable assistance from the International Adoption Clinic at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Back in January 2010, the local media made the Pramuks the region’s “Haiti family,” Lauri says, but that attention from television stations, newspapers, and magazines has all but disappeared. In the meantime, their “mini-mes and chocolate chips” have encountered no outward racism, just a few scowls. “Life as a biracial family…overall it has been very positive,” Chris says. “People are curious, and it has been endearing with people in the grocery store.”
CHRIS: A sense of humor is crucial, and so is a willingness not to have it all figured out ahead of time. If you are a control freak, international adoption will stretch you, perhaps in very good ways, as long as you know this about yourself and the process going in.
celebrate their 20th anniversary—they contemplated what they’ve learned from adopting Sophia and Henry and what advice they would have for other couples considering international adoption. Among their tips:
LAURI: Adopted kids, and especially internationally adopted kids, often come with complex issues. Domestic adoptions can as well, just like biological children, but due to issues that are beyond your control such as early nutrition, genetics, poverty, potential violence; international adoptions often come with unique challenges.
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Helpful. ConďŹ dential. Friendly. We’re here for you 24 hours a day. You choose the adoptive family. If you wish, meet the adoptive family now and stay in touch with them and your child throughout your life. Adoption Link works with birth parents of all races and backgrounds. We serve all of Ohio, and we will travel to you. If you are seeking to adopt please contact us.
An Ohio licensed adoption agency
1-800-643-3356 Text us anytime at 937-974-1357 | www.adoptionlink.org
THE A TO Z GUIDE Expert advice about each stage, from pregnancy to preschool, and helpful resources including childcare and medical care.
EACH STAGE of parenting, from pregnancy to school age and beyond, has its unique challenges. In the A to Z Guide, learn about great foods to eat when you’re pregnant, how to make baby food, and how to help your preschooler develop a love of reading. This section also offers advice, including discipline tips and an informative Q&A with the director of the sleep center at Cincinnati Children’s.
ON JULIE: The World of Eric Carle floral romper, $44, Castle House.
P H O T O G R A P H B Y R YA N K U R T Z
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THE A TO Z GUIDE
5 PREGNANCY SUPERFOODS
STAGES: PREGNANCY
THESE SUPERSTAR foods not only pack a nutritional punch, they also boost baby’s brain and cell development.
BIRTH SUPPORT The roles of doula and midwife. — K I M B E R LY
K E N N E DY
both passionate about assisting women to achieve normal, safe, healthy births. They want expectant parents to ignore the misconceptions that they only assist un-medicated and home births—and that they’re earthy hippies. Both partner with women, listening to their needs, providing info, and guiding them toward their ideal birth plan. Still, their roles are not the same. Here’s the difference. WE SPOKE TO A DOULA AND A MIDWIFE,
MIDWIFE
Michelle Zamudio is a certified nurse-midwife (CNM) at The Christ Hospital Family Medical Associates. Zamudio says many women don’t realize they can choose a midwife or family physician to deliver their babies instead of an obstetrician. Delivery: A midwife is the healthcare provider leading the birth team, managing labor, and making medical decisions, but prescribing medication or interventions only as needed. If an emergency procedure is required, your hospital has an obstetrician available 24/7. Why hire a midwife? Perhaps you want a gentler birth experience, such as dim lights or water labor. Some women, like victims of trauma, have labor fears or need extra emotional support. Midwives can have a more caring, compassionate approach. DOULA
Erica Konya is a certified labor doula (CLD) and owner of Nurture, LLC. According to Konya, a doula’s job is to provide physical, emotional, and informational support throughout your pregnancy and labor. Delivery: She provides nonmedical care and is your constant companion—like having an experienced, trained girlfriend with you. Her forte is providing comfort measures such as massage, position changes, and breathing and relaxation techniques. She plays a supportive role on the team, facilitating communication with your healthcare provider. Why hire a doula? Studies show women have shorter labor and fewer complications, interventions, and pain meds when they have a doula. Because the doula is there to focus on your support, it also allows your partner to relax and enjoy the experience with you.
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Eggs are a nutritional bounty, including protein for cell development and choline to prevent neural tube defects and promote baby’s brain health. The old egg is still a good egg.
Hummus yields protein and healthy fats to aid in neurological development and vitamin absorption. It also has folate for brain and spinal cord development, iron for red blood cells, and fiber to prevent prenatal constipation.
Kale is chock full of the good stuff: carotenoids, healthy fats, protein, folate, and fiber. Make some kale chips or blend it with other fruits and veggies in a daily green juice drink.
Avocados are often called one of the world’s healthiest foods. They’re rich in monounsaturated fat and loaded with antioxidants and folic acid.
Give your morning cereal a boost with a handful of blueberries, which are full of antioxidants, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. — K . K .
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THE A TO Z GUIDE STAGES: INFANT
PRECIOUS CARGO
Make sure your baby is buckled in safely when you hit the road. — K I M B E R LY K E N N E D Y THE FIRST TIME YOU GAZE INTO THE FACE
of your precious newborn, that mother-bear instinct automatically kicks in and you know you’ll do anything to keep her safe. Why not start with a free safety check to ensure your car seat is installed properly? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has determined that the majority of car seats are installed incorrectly, putting a child at risk of serious injury—even death—during a collision. Visit
cincinnatichildrens.org/health/c/car-seatfitting for a comprehensive list of fitting stations in the Cincinnati region. Dayton Children’s Hospital also offers monthly car-seat checks. When you purchase your seat, it’s best to choose one that fits your car. The website safercar.gov/parents/CarSeats.htm provides tips for choosing and installing a seat, as well as a signup for recall notification. To reduce the risk of serious injury, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends your child face the rear of the car as long as possible, up to age 2. Never place a child under 12 in the front seat, as air-bag deployment can be deadly. If you’re fuzzy on the guidelines or need to know when it’s safe to move your child into a new seat, we have the info.
Type of Seat
Age/Height/Weight Guidelines
INFANT CARRIER Faces rear, with five-point harness; snaps in and out of base, which stays in car.
Infant up to 22 lbs.
CONVERTIBLE SEAT Faces rear and front, with five-point harness.
Infant and toddler up to 70 lbs.
BOOSTER SEAT High-back uses five-point harness; backless uses car’s shoulder restraint. Lap belt must lie across upper thighs, not stomach. Shoulder belt should lie across shoulder and chest and not cross the neck or face.
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40 lbs. and up must use booster until: Ohio: age 8 and 4'9" Kentucky: age 7 and 50" Indiana: age 8
THE A TO Z GUIDE STAGES: INFANT
MAKING BABY FOOD When your little one is ready for solids, keep meals fresh by preparing baby food at home. We help you get started. M A K I N G YO U R O W N B A B Y
food is simpler than you think. It saves money, and your baby’s food is fresh, with no fillers. Plus, your little one can eat what you do. We love BabyCenter’s informative video primer (bcove. me/7iukhomm). Here are some other tips to help get you started. Bon appétit, baby!
Gadgets: You’ll need food storage bags, ice cube trays, and a blender or food processor. Safety: Use separate cutting boards for meat and produce. Wash supplies in hot water; it’s not necessary to sterilize because your baby is now mouthing toys. Prep: Remove skin and/or fat. Cook food, chop, and puree with a little water. Pour 1–2 ounces into storage bags. Or pour into ice-cube trays, cover with plastic and once frozen, dump into freezer bags. Label and date everything. To thaw, place sealed bag in tepid water. — K . K .
Bathe your baby every other day with lukewarm water.
SAFE SKIN YOUR BABY’S SKIN IS SO DELICATE. TREAT IT WITH LOTS OF TLC.
Clean your newborn’s bottom with a fresh, damp cloth instead of baby wipes. For diaper rash, Ronna Schneider, M.D., owner of Suburban Pediatric Associates, recommends applying a barrier layer of diaper cream. Then the next soiling won’t cause more irritation. Pat your baby dry after a bath. Apply cream or ointment (not baby oil) to seal in moisture, Schneider says.
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Choose natural products with few ingredients, preferably hypoallergenic and dye- and fragrance-free, monitoring skin for reactions. No sunscreen or direct sun for the first six months. Use hats for older babies, and apply a PABA-free, broadspectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Early sun damage is linked to skin cancer; take care so that your little one’s precious skin lasts a lifetime. — K . K .
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THE A TO Z GUIDE
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STAGES: INFANT
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Remember the big picture. The goal should be to preserve the relationships, ďŹ rst between you and your parents but especially between your children and their grandparents. All of you want what is best for your children because of the love you share for them.
Set boundaries respectfully.
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Try your own version of Dr. Philâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classic line: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thank you for caring enough to share, and I promise to weigh it carefully.â&#x20AC;? If you disagree, express your feelings respectfully with â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;? statements like, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I feel Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m being undermined when you let Sam play with my tablet when I said no.â&#x20AC;? Before grandparents babysit, discuss whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s non-negotiable, like naptimes or discipline preferences, and let go of the rest. Momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s priorities get met, but Grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s style gets respected.
Think before reacting. The fact is, there will be things you disagree about (like when to potty train). Before you ďŹ re back, consider their input. Do they have ideas worth trying or some validity to their perspective?
Be flexible. Are there things you could let go of? Will things that seem important now be ridiculous in four years? Does it matter if Grandma gives Sarah three cookies instead of two? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also good to occasionally solicit their perspective so they feel valued. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; K . K .
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THE A TO Z GUIDE STAGES: TODDLER
12 DISCIPLINE TIPS
No one ever said disciplining your kids would be a walk in the park. In fact, it can feel like an uphill climb. Your approach during those challenging situations may make all the difference. — K I M B E R LY K E N N E D Y
IT ALL STARTS WHEN YOUR INFANT
grabs your earrings and you say “no.” You’re teaching respect for other people’s boundaries. “Discipline teaches kids that there are principles and parameters they must learn to successfully negotiate life,” says Scott Osterfeld, parenting expert and community outreach coordinator for the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities. We present some helpful tips to make disciplining less difficult for you and your child.
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1
Be consistent.
2
Be calm when disciplining.
“Kids feel safe and secure when there are limits and structure,” Osterfeld says. His analogy is a night security guard: He tests the doors and is relieved when they’re locked. “Kids test a parent, and when the parent consistently maintains the rule, kids feel secure and safe because they cannot control their behavior on their own,” he says.
Osterfeld says parents can talk too much and get too emotional. Be matter-of-fact, but even-keeled.
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THE A TO Z GUIDE
HELLO HAZARDS
STAGES: TODDLER
3
Use time-out effectively.
4
Use natural consequences.
No toys or distractions. Don’t engage your child. One minute for each year of age, and they may not come out until calm. Have them apologize for the infraction.
Meaning, the punishment fits the crime. An example: “For every put-down you give your sister, you have to say two build-ups [compliments].”
5
Model the behavior you expect.
This also means avoiding corporal punishment, as adults don’t settle disputes with physical aggression.
6
Use distraction effectively, redirecting or defusing with humor.
Baby is throwing blocks at the cat? Show her how to build. Brandon won’t brush his teeth? Make up a song about tickling his teeth with a toothbrush.
7
Tell them what TO do— not just what NOT to do.
Your 2-year-old constantly interrupts while you’re talking to her teacher. Instead of saying “stop interrupting,” say, “Please wait until Mommy is finished.”
8
Give them the words to say.
9
Catch them being good.
When Brandon has trouble with his zipper, you can say: “Instead of stomping feet and yelling, say, ‘Daddy, I need help with my zipper.’” This is an under-utilized but effective tool.
“Notice when they are behaving the way you want,” Osterfeld says, “and then enthusiastically give it your attention.” An example: “Awesome job putting your dirty clothes in the hamper!”
10
Build a strong relationship.
Keep interactions positive as much as possible and give your kids one-on-one time every day. The emotional bond you build will deter bad behavior.
11
Be a parent first, friend second.
12
Don’t punish temper tantrums.
Otherwise, you may hesitate to discipline and risk your child learning no respect for other people’s boundaries.
Tune in to your child’s needs. Are they hungry? Tired? Overtaxed by too many activities? Providing what they need might solve the problem.
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SO YOU THINK YOU’VE got the lowdown on making your home childproof? Part of that process is properly storing and disposing of hazardous materials. Many people don’t know that compact fluorescent bulbs contain mercury, or an open flame can ignite vapors from solvents. Consider these items: • Paints, solvents, cleaners, automotive liquids, lawn chemicals • Flammables, like propane and kerosene • Medications (70,000 children visit emergency rooms each year for medication overdoses) • Electronics duster spray, which can cause instant death if inhaled • Fluorescent lightbulbs, thermostats, and thermometers containing mercury • Batteries • Electronics and TVs, which contain heavy metals and toxic minerals (recycling reclaims these resources) Make sure all chemicals and medications are tightly sealed, preferably in locked cabinets. Improperly disposed hazardous materials have a big environmental impact.
DROP-OFF SITES: • Environmental Enterprises, Inc., 10163 Cincinnati-Dayton Rd., West End, eeienv.com; accepts everything except for electronics and TVs, for a small fee. • Dayton Computer Recycling, 144 E. Third St., downtown, daytoncomputer recycling.com; electronics and TVs. • Check with your city and county offices for medication take-back locations. —K.K.
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THE A TO Z GUIDE STAGES: SCHOOL AGE
E-MEDIA: FIND THE RIGHT BALANCE FOR YOUR FAMILY
MAKING THE GRADE
What’s trending in kindergarten. — K I M B E R LY
SURE, YOUR KIDS would stare at the iPad for hours if they could. And some of those apps are educational. So how do you make sure they don’t end up on technology overload?
Be a good role model. Unplug now and then, and focus on your child when she is talking with you.
1
K E N N E DY
WHO DIDN’T LOVE KINDERGARTEN? There was
finger painting and story time, Duck Duck Goose and naptime, blocks and make-believe play. But today, those activities take place in preschool. So what’s left for kindergarten? “More academics and higher expectations,” says Anne Keen, veteran kindergarten teacher for Wyoming City Schools. YESTERDAY
“We learned how to be at school, how to sit still and listen to a story,” Keen says. “It was more about socialization.” Students learned ABCs and numbers, a little writing, and basic math. TODAY
Still snacks, but no naps! A major shift is that 76 percent of kindergarteners now attend full-day programs. Pressure to test well in upper grades has driven the increase in literacy and math education. Kids are expected to read and write by year end. Keen notes there is more help available now for struggling kids. Keen builds up students’ attention spans by doing shorter activities that support the main content, such as listening to a story, drawing a picture, or playing a game. Keen encourages make-believe play, pointing out her “zoo nursery,” where children care for stuffed animals. ALL WORK AND NO PLAY?
Keen echoes the concerns of child development experts that many classrooms are taking away art, music, gym, or toys. “Everyone who teaches kindergarten knows that kids learn best through play,” Keen says. And research supports this. “It’s not developmentally appropriate for 5-year-olds to sit at desks all day doing papers. They need to be up and moving, to be learning in lots of different ways, to be playing and having time to socialize.”
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Set daily time limits. Tip the scale toward more playtime than screen time. Use timers. Cell phones and TVs count. E-media is easier to monitor if it’s in a common area. Don’t cave when kids say, “But it’s educational!”
2
Post unplugged times, like bedtime, mealtime, one day per week, and every other car ride.
3
Steer kids toward activities you value, like music, art, games, reading, and biking. Start a family game night!
4
Teach them ways to entertain themselves without e-media. Give them three ideas of other things they can do, and tell them to choose one.
5
Avoid arguing; keep discussions positive. Remind your kids that our bodies and brains need exercise! — K . K .
6
Have someone cook for you! We all want to put fresh, unprocessed, healthy meals on the table, but with small children in the house, something has to give.
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THE A TO Z GUIDE HEALTH & WELLNESS
GOOD NIGHT, SLEEP TIGHT
Good sleep is essential for children, promoting daytime alertness and concentration as well as tissue growth and repair that is important for development. Dr. Narong Simakajornboon, director of the sleep center at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, talks about how sleep can affect your child’s health. — K I M B E R LY K E N N E D Y
Q: HOW MIGHT A SLEEP ISSUE BE UNDIAGNOSED OR MISDIAGNOSED?
Parents may not pay much attention to snoring. It is not just an annoying symptom, it may be a sign of sleep apnea. Certain sleep disorders may have daytime consequences that mimic medical conditions, like ADHD. Sleep disorders like Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) are under-diagnosed. The kid may have nighttime awakenings, but the parents may not observe the leg jerking during sleep. Kids are not able to express what bothers them at night.
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Another category is children who have behavioral sleep issues, like difficulty falling or staying asleep, but without an organic sleep disorder. One of the most common is when every time the child wakes up, the parent goes to comfort them. That will lead to maladaptive behavior, where children cannot go to sleep by themselves. Normally, children have short nighttime awakenings, and they are not even aware of it. Parents need to allow children to learn how to go back to sleep by themselves; they can use a certain object for a comfort measure.
Give your baby the friendliest welcome in town Mercy Health – Anderson Hospital and Mercy Health – Fairfield Hospital are certified “Baby Friendly” by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF. They are the area’s only hospitals that hold this distinction, which is bestowed on hospitals that meet WHO and UNICEF criteria, including educating mothers about breastfeeding. The new Mercy Health – West Hospital recently applied for this honor as well. Welcome your new bundle of joy, right in your neighborhood, at your nearest Mercy Health hospital.
Find a Mercy Health doctor near you Visit e-mercy.com or call 513-981-2222. 268CINADV (4/14)
THE A TO Z GUIDE HEALTH & WELLNESS
LIFE SAVER EPIPENS MAY SOON BE STOCKED AT YOUR SCHOOL.
Q: WHAT ARE SIGNS OF POOR SLEEP?
You may want to talk to your pediatrician about snoring, breathing pauses during sleep, difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings, restless sleep, morning headaches, daytime sleepiness, or the opposite, which is hyperactivity or attention and behavior problems. Children with ADHD tend to have higher incidence of sleep issues, and treating the sleep issue leads to overall improvement. Also, kids who have a chronic medical condition or chronic pain, like fibromyalgia, tend to have some coexisting sleep issue that may worsen their condition. Q: DO PARENTS OFTEN UNDERESTIMATE THE IMPORTANCE OF SLEEP HYGIENE?
Yes! This can make a big difference in a child’s life. Have a consistent bedtime; avoid caffeine, sugar, and large meals within a few hours of bedtime; get plenty of exercise and exposure to sunlight during the day; avoid emotional upsets or stimulating activities before sleep; establish a relaxing routine, such as a warm bath and bedtime story in a dimly lit room. Q: WHAT RECOMMENDATIONS DO YOU HAVE FOR ELECTRONIC MEDIA BEFORE BED?
Studies show that the light intensity coming off these gadgets can interfere with your child’s sleep. We emphasize avoiding those bright lights late at night; it suppresses release of melatonin. It can also shift the release of melatonin to later on, therefore the kid will have difficulty falling asleep and waking up early. Bright light early in the morning will shift your clock to an earlier hour, allowing you to go to bed earlier. My recommendation is to sit farther away from the television, put a screen on the computer or tablet, turn the light intensity down, or avoid electronic media altogether within an hour or two before bedtime. Parents and kids don’t think this will make a big difference, but they will be amazed!
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New federal legislation gives financial incentives to states that mandate schools stock EpiPens (epinephrine auto-injectors) to treat anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction to antigens like insect stings, peanuts, or latex. Recent legislation in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana allows but does not require schools to stock them, and Ohio includes camps and coaches. In most cases it will not be a medical professional administering the EpiPen, so the legislation addresses concerns about staff training, financial barriers, restocking, and liability. “EpiPens undoubtedly save lives and in trained hands, it is the right thing to do” says Kathy Strasser, district nurse at Norwood City Schools. Strasser feels it’s not necessary to mandate schools stock EpiPens; if stocking them becomes a best practice, schools will be encouraged to follow suit. Although most children who have an anaphylactic event at school have a history of allergies, a quarter of them have no known allergies. It’s serious for the child, frightening for the adults, and comforting to know you have medication available to reverse it, says Belinda Huffman, pulmonary health manager at Dayton Children’s Hospital. Her concern is that schools won’t make stocking EpiPens a priority if it isn’t mandated. If you have a concern, voice your opinion to legislators and school administrators. — K . K .
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www.goc.md • (513) 792-5800 We look forward to welcoming you to our practice!
THE A TO Z GUIDE
4 MUST-HAVE BOOKS THE EXPERTS AT Blue Marble Books in Ft. Thomas recommend these titles for your bookshelf.
CHILDCARE & EDUCATION
This Little Piggy and Other Rhymes to Sing and Play, by Jane Yolen with Will Hillenbrand, illustrator
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AN OPEN BOOK
Finger plays, clapping games, and pantomime rhymes (with instructions) introduce little people to the wonder of words.
4 ways to develop a love of reading in your kids. — K I M B E R LY
K E N N E DY
1. CREATE A TRADITION.
Valerie Tanner, mother of two, started reading Miracle by Connie Willis to her daughter at Christmastime. When her daughter became a teenager, she asked if she could invite a few friends over to hear the story. Days later, the Tanner house was strewn wall-to-wall with bodies of kids (and their pillows) who stayed to hear the three-hour reading! This same family waited outside the bookstore each time a Harry Potter novel was to be released, reading the first chapter on the curb out front.
Otis, by Loren Long When his friend is in trouble, this forlorn, abandoned tractor discovers there’s still a place for his talents.
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2. MAKE BOOKS AVAILABLE.
Visit the library religiously. Give books as gifts and rewards for good behavior. Place baskets of books around the house and in the car. Say no to e-media regularly, steering your child to a book instead. 3. BE A READING ROLE MODEL.
“Studies show that children with positive memories of reading and who grow up in households where it is valued are more likely to be successful readers,” says John Hutton, author and owner of Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore in Oakley.
One, by Kathryn Otoshi A deceptively simple lesson on color and counting becomes a message about bullying and the power of one.
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4. READ WITH YOUR CHILD EARLY.
“Even newborn infants enjoy the soothing sound of a parent’s voice, bold images, and a cozy lap,” Hutton says. “So much of the reading experience is that bonding experience with the parent or caregiver.” 5. MAKE IT A CHERISHED RITUAL.
In today’s fast-paced world, sharing a book is a really important oasis for a child, Hutton says. “And then as they get older and learn to read, they will seek a sanctuary within books on their own.”
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The Monster at the End of This Book, by Jon Stone with Mike Smollin, illustrator Our beloved Sesame Street friend Grover warns us not to turn the page—a monster is coming! — K . K .
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BOOK IMAGES COURTESY OF (TOP TO BOTTOM): CANDLEWICK PRESS, PHILOMEL BOOKS, KO KIDS BOOKS, RANDOM HOUSE
FACT:
A baby loves peek-a-boo when he begins to understand an object exists, even when not in view.
PRIMROSE WAY:
We have teachers who could represent the U.S. in peek-a-boo. CALL TODAY FOR A TOUR. Primrose School of Symmes 513.697.6970 | PrimroseSymmes.com
Primrose School of Mason 513.336.6756 | PrimroseMason.com
Primrose School of West Chester 513.870.0630 | PrimroseWestChester.com Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2014 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. See primroseschools.com for ‘fact’ source and curriculum detail.
THE A TO Z GUIDE CHILDCARE & EDUCATION
TRANSITION TROUBLE It can be so baffling: You drop your child off at an exciting new learning situation, like a classroom, sport, or activity, and the little guy or gal is glued to your leg. Some kids have trouble adjusting to new situations. We give you some tips to help build their social confidence.
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Model confidence.
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Recognize your child’s unique temperament.
“Our kids absorb much of what they learn by watching us,” says Kristy Fritz-Bosse, licensed clinical psychologist at Viewpoint Psychological Services. Nix the negative self-talk and demonstrate willingness to face fears.
For example, an outgoing parent may feel frustrated if their child is slow to warm, says Fritz-Bosse, because they think transitioning should be easy. But it’s normal to be cautious, watching and listening before joining.
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Prepare!
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Say the magic words.
Orient your child by telling them what to expect. Whenever possible, visit the space beforehand and meet the instructor, sharing your child’s interests with those in charge so they can effectively engage him or her. Arrive early to the event so your child has time to adjust. Fritz-Bosse recommends a transitional object, like a small toy, keepsake, photo in a pillbox, or even matching stickers for Mom and child.
Validate your child’s feelings—don’t dismiss them, Fritz-Bosse advises. Then, shift the focus from negative thinking to positive thinking and start to get them involved. Say, “It’s OK to be nervous. Look at these nice kids you’re going to play with!” Don’t perpetuate your child’s anxiety by lingering too long. Check in with your child afterward to see how it went. Before long, they will be navigating new situations like a pro. — K . K .
• Early language development and reading; advanced language usage
IS YOUR CHILD GIFTED? THERE’S SMART, and then there’s gifted. Here are some common characteristics of giftedness.
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• Advanced understanding, intense curiosity, and long attention span for subjects of interest • Intensity and sensitivity • Perfectionism • Intense concern for morality and justice • Unusually creative or inventive • Faster rate of learning
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If you believe your child is gifted, seek a professional evaluation by a psychologist. Formal identification can open the door to services to meet your child’s educational, social, and emotional needs. And that’s an important step toward reaching their full potential. “Gifted children are one of our society’s greatest natural resources,” says Sandra Kelly-Schilling, head of the Schilling School for Gifted Children. — K . K .
Rigorous PREPARATION. JOYFUL environment. Students who find SUCCESS in any world.
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Early Childhood (18 months) z Pre-Kindergarten z Montessori z Kindergarten z Grades 1 - 12 Before and After School Care z Enrichment Clubs z Youth Sports z Summer Programs Cincinnati Country Day School, founded in 1926, is a co-educational, college preparatory school serving 18 month through grade 12 students.
(513) 979-0220 z 6905 Given Road, Cincinnati, OH 45243 z www.CountryDay.net Y0u
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THE A TO Z GUIDE
the
LIST
From preschool to party places, we provide resources for Cincinnati parents.
CHILDCARE & EDUCATION When you need childcare or early education, the Cincinnati region offers many top-notch facilities. Our list is just a sampling. Some of these schools provide additional programs, however, our list is tailored to include information up to preschool age.
DOWNTOWN
CINCINNATI HILLS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (CHCA) OTTO ARMLEDER CAMPUS 140 W. Ninth St., downtown, (513) 721-2422, chca-oh.org CHCA creates a classroom environment that is safe, joyful, community-oriented, productive, and academically engaging. The curriculum emphasizes social, emotional, and academic learning as well as spiritual development. Ages: 3–5 Capacity: 26, waiting list Hours: 8 a.m.–2:45 p.m. Extended care: Yes, 3:10–5:30 p.m. Style of teaching: Christian; Thematic Units with
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Responsive Classroom Approach, guided by NAEYC and OELCS Meals: Breakfast, morning/afternoon/after-school snacks, hot or boxed lunches available Child/teacher ratio: 6:1 ages 3–4, 7:1 ages 4–5 Awards or designations: ISACS accredited Enrolls students with disabilities: Case by case Cost: $6,495–$12,495; call for endowment information (See also CHCA North Campus)
GO CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER 400 New St., downtown, (513) 381-3111, bright horizons.com/pgcincinnati Open to all current Procter
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& Gamble employees, this Bright Horizons childcare facility has developmentally appropriate educational environments to empower children to become lifelong learners. Ages: 6 weeks–5 years Capacity: 196, spots available Hours: Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–6:30 p.m., two to five days a week Style of teaching: Developmentally appropriate practices Meals: Full-time cook provides breakfast, lunch, and snacks Child/teacher ratio: 4:1 infants, 5:2 toddlers, 10:1 preschool and pre-K Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: Call for information
VISIONS EARLY LEARNING CENTER/ CHILDREN, INC. 425 Ezzard Charles Dr., downtown/West End, (513) 651-2229, childreninc.org Serving young families and children from economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, VISIONS/Children, Inc. is dedicated to helping children achieve success through innovative educational excellence, compassionate family support, and collective community leadership. Ages: 6 weeks–5 years Capacity: 125, waiting list Hours: 7 a.m.–5:15 p.m. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and snacks Child/ teacher ratio: 4:1 infants, 7:1 toddlers, 10:1 preschool
Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited; 4 stars, Ohio Step Up to Quality Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $185–$240/week, United Way and state funding available UPTOWN/CENTRAL
ARLITT CHILD AND FAMILY RESEARCH AND EDUCATION CENTER 47 Corry Blvd., Clifton, (513) 556-3802, cech. uc.edu/centers/arlitt/ preschool-information In thoughtfully designed classrooms with various learning centers, Arlitt offers several opportunities for children to explore materials to construct and extend their knowledge. Arlitt is one of the most culturally diverse and inclusive preschools in the country, and is one of two preschools in the area with a nature playscape. Ages: 3–5 Capacity: 119, waiting list Hours: Mon–Thurs, 8:15– 11:45 a.m. or 12:45–4:15 p.m.; or full day Mon–Fri, 7:45 a.m.–5:15 p.m. Extended care: No Style of teaching: Constructivist Meals: Nutritionally balanced snacks and lunch, breakfast available with full-day enrollment Child/ teacher ratio: 10:1 Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited; 4 stars, Ohio Step Up to Quality Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $2,400/ year or $226/week for fullday care; serves children through Head Start
THE CHILDREN’S HOME OF CINCINNATI PRESCHOOL PROGRAM 5014 Madison Rd., Madisonville, (513) 272-2800, thechildrenshomecinti. org/preschool With a 40acre campus featuring walking trails and a water play area, The Children’s Home maintains family-oriented spaces to provide a nurturing environment, ensuring comfort and a foundation for success. Ages: 3–5 Capacity: 20, spots available Hours: 7 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack provided Child/teacher ratio: 10:1 Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited; 4 stars, Ohio Step Up to Quality; aligned with OELCS Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: Ac-
cepts child care vouchers through Ohio Dept. of Job and Family Services
CINCINNATI EARLY LEARNING CENTER (CELC): EAST WALNUT HILLS 1301 E. McMillan, East Walnut Hills, (513) 9612690, celcinc.org/eastwalnut-hills.aspx CELC is a nonprofit, nationally accredited United Way agenc y managing six childcare centers in the Greater Cincinnati region. By partnering with the family and providing low child-to-staff rations, CELC offers a high-quality early learning experience. Ages: 12 weeks–5 years Capacity: 115, waiting list Hours: Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Developmental and constructivist approach Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks Child/teacher ratio: 3:1 infants, 6:1 toddlers, 10:1 preschool Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited; 4 stars, Ohio Step Up to Quality Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $190–$275/week
CINCINNATI EARLY LEARNING CENTER (CELC): FUTURE ENVIRONMENTS CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER/EPA 123 W. Nixon St., Clifton, (513) 487-2730, celcinc. org/future.aspx CELC is a nonprofit, nationally accredited United Way agency managing six childcare centers in the Greater Cincinnati region. By partnering with the family and providing low child-to-staff rations, CELC offers a high-quality early learning experience. Ages: 6 weeks–5 years Capacity: 53; waiting list for infants is 3–6 months, for toddler and preschool classes 0–2 months Hours: 6:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Developmental and constructivist approach Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks Child/ teacher ratio: 4:1 infants, 6:1 toddlers, 10:1 preschool Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited; 4 stars, Ohio Step Up to Quality Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $181–$271/week
COUNTRY HILLS MONTESSORI 4900 Babson Place,
Oakley, (513) 271-2808, chmschools.com/oakley/ Country Hills Montessori has seven locations in the Greater Cincinnati area, each within healthcare centers to facilitate intergenerational learning, promoting inclusiveness and collaboration across generations. Other locations: West Chester, Eastgate, Montgomery, Harrison, Springboro, and Ft. Thomas. Ages: 3–6 Capacity: 20, spots available Hours: 3- or 5-day programs, morning 9–11:30 a.m., extended day 9 a.m.–1 p.m. for ages 4–6 Extended care: No Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Snacks provided, parents pack lunch for extended program Child/ teacher ratio: 7:1 or lower Enrolls students with disabilities: Case by case Cost: $2,900–$4,500
HYDE PARK PLAY SCHOOL 3846 Drake Ave., Hyde Park, (513) 631-2095, thehydeparkplayschool. com Degreed staff in a secure residential area foster creative and educational experiences, including introductions to Spanish, signing, yoga, computers, and on-site field trips. Ages: Infant, toddler, preschool Capacity: 132; waiting list, 2–3 months for toddlers, 1 year for infants Hours: Mon–Fri 6:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Traditional Meals: Morning and afternoon snacks, hot lunch Child/teacher ratio: 4:1 infants, 5:1 toddlers, 10:1 preschool Awards or designations: Members of NAEYC and CAEYC Enrolls students with disabilities: Case by case Cost: $240–$279/week
KENNEDY HEIGHTS MONTESSORI CENTER (KHMC) 6120 Ridge Ave., Pleasant Ridge, (513) 6318135, kennedyheights montessori.org KHMC is a not-for-profit parent cooperative school teaching respect, peace, relationships, honesty, and compassion to an economically and racially diverse student body. Ages: 3–6, expanding to include 2-year-olds in the 2015–16 school year Capacity: 72, spots available Hours: Morning and afternoon classes Mon– Fri, 2½ hours Extended
ABBREVIATIONS/ ACRONYMS
ACSI Association of Christian Schools International AMS American Montessori Society AWSNA Association of Waldorf Schools of North America CMS Cincinnati Montessori Society CPS Cincinnati Public Schools ISACS Independent Schools Association of the Central States NAC National Accreditation Commission NAEYC National Association for the Education of Young Children NAIS National Association of Independent Schools NCA CASI North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement NECPA The National Early Childhood Program Accreditation OAIS Ohio Association of Independent Schools ODE Ohio Department of Education OELCS/OELDS Ohio Early Learning Content/Development Standards PEJE Partnership for Excellence in Jewish Education RAVSAK Jewish Community Day School Network SACS CASI Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI and SACS CASI are the accrediting bodies of AdvancED) WECAN Waldorf Early Childhood Association of North America
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THE A TO Z GUIDE care: 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Morning and afternoon snacks, hot lunch Child/teacher ratio: 9:1 Awards or designations: 3 stars, Ohio Step Up to Quality; United Way agency and Head Start partner Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, case by case Cost: Tiered income scale, half-day program $375–$439/month; accepts daycare vouchers and United Way scholarships
tions, extended day snack Child/teacher ratio: 8:1 Awards or designations: The only Montessori school in Cincinnati accredited by the American Montessori Society; additional ISACS accreditation as well Enrolls students with disabilities: No Cost: $4,750–$11,950
PLEASANT RIDGE PRESBYTERIAN NURSERY SCHOOL
2335 Grandview Ave., East Walnut Hills, (513) 4756700, mercymontessori. org Mercy Montessori is a private, independent, Catholic Montessori school that builds on a child’s innate instinct to learn through one’s senses, to help each child fall in love with learning at the child’s own pace. Ages: 3–6 Capacity: 96, spots available Hours: Mon–Fri 8:45–11:45 a.m. Extended care: Yes, 11:45 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Morning and afternoon snacks, hot lunch available or brown bag for extended care Child/teacher ratio: 10:1 Awards or designations: Accredited by OCSAA, ODE, and AMA Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: Sliding scale, $2,781–$9,158
5950 Montgomery Rd., Pleasant Ridge, (513) 6310170, prpc.org/nursery school.php PRPNS is an early childhood education program designed to enhance each child’s growth in developmentally appropriate ways. Teachers respect each child’s different gifts and learning styles and emphasize active learning experiences. Ages: 2–5 Capacity: 75, spots available Hours: Preschool classes 2, 3, 4, or 5 days a week: 9:15–11:45 a.m., 12:20– 2:50 p.m., or full day, 9:15 a.m.–2:50 p.m. (Fridays: 9:15–11:45 a.m.) Extended care: Early drop-off 8:30 a.m., no afternoon extended care Style of teaching: Constructivist Meals: Lunch provided for full-day students, as an option for part-day students Child/teacher ratio: 12:3 toddlers, 18:3 preschool, 20:3 pre-K Awards or designations: 4 stars, Ohio Step Up to Quality Enrolls students with disabilities: Case by case Cost: $1,250-$5,390 with scholarship opportunities
THE NEW SCHOOL MONTESSORI
THE SEVEN HILLS SCHOOL
MERCY MONTESSORI
3 Burton Woods Lane, North Avondale, (513) 281-7999, newschool montessori.com Centrally located, the historic Mitchell mansion provides the backdrop for a holistic education. Surrounded by wooded play yards and gardens, students benefit from a nurturing environment where Montessori-credentialed staff support high academic and personal achievement. Ages: 3–4 Capacity: 48, spots available Hours: Parttime, 7:30 a.m.–1 p.m.; full-time, 7:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Extended care: Yes, until 6 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Healthy chef-prepared lunch with vegetarian op-
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Hillsdale campus: 5400 Red Bank Rd., Madisonville; Doherty campus: 2726 Johnstone Place, East Walnut Hills, (513) 7282400, 7hills.org Through carefully designed play and exploration, Seven Hills encourages children to experience and express talents in a comfortable, familial environment, thereby instilling confidence and a sense of accomplishment. Ages: 2–4 Capacity: 74; limited spots available for pre-K, waiting list for others; contact admissions office for availability Hours: 8:30–11:30 a.m. 3 days/ week for 2-year-olds, 5 days/week 3–4-year-olds Extended care: 7:30 a.m.– 6 p.m. Style of teaching:
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Child-centered Meals: Lunches and snacks include healthy options such as whole grains, organic milk, veggie burgers, fresh whole fruits Child/teacher ratio: 5:1 2-year-olds, 10:1 3- and 4-year-olds Awards or designations: NAIS, ISACS, OAIS, State of Ohio Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $6,174–$10,568
THE SUMMIT COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL 2161 Grandin Rd., Hyde Park, (513) 871-4700, summitcds.org A private, Catholic, and independent school, The Summit’s Montessori program fosters a child’s independence, understanding, and academic achievement through observation, preparation, and support of individual liberty. Ages: 2–6 Capacity: More than 200 children in Montessori program, including kindergartners; rolling admission based on availability Hours: Multiple program options; 2, 3, or 5 half-day programs, 8:15–11:15 a.m. or 12:15–3:15 p.m.; or full day, 8:15 a.m.–3:15 p.m. Extended care: Yes, 6:45 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Lunch provided for all-day Montessori Child/teacher ratio: 12:1, ages 3–6 Awards or designations: 50th year of Montessori education, AMS-certified teachers Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $3,925–$16,125 depending on class
UC EARLY LEARNING CENTER (ELC) 3310 Ruther Ave., Clifton, (513) 961-2825, uc.edu/ elc Serving UC and the community, ELC focuses on the physical and cognitive development of children through self-directed play. Planned environments expose children to math, literacy, art, music, and science. Ages: 3 months– age 5 during school year (ages 5–8 summertime) Capacity: 149; waiting list, typically 6–12 months for children under 3 Hours: Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Extended care: Yes Style of teaching: Constructivist Meals: Catered lunch with full menu that varies quarterly, including fruits and vegetables; also offers breakfast and snacks Child/teacher ratio: 4:1
infants, 5:1 toddlers, 10:1 preschool, 15:1 schoolaged children Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited since 1993; 4 stars, Ohio Step up to Quality Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $188 (preschooler)–$264 (infant)/week; discounted rates for UC students and employees
THE WILLOW TREE HOUSE DAYCARE & PRESCHOOL 2651 Highland Ave., Corryville, (513) 281-8733, thewillowtreehouse.com An independently-owned -and-operated daycare and preschool, Willow Tree House offers an academic all-day preschool setting with play-based curriculum and low child/ teacher ratios. Ages: 6 weeks–5 years Capacity: 68, spots available Hours: 6:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Play-based curriculum Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and snacks provided Child/teacher ratio: 12:1 older children, 4:1 infants Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $106–$220/week
XAVIER UNIVERSITY MONTESSORI LAB SCHOOL 3800 Victor y Pk w y., Evanston, (513) 745-3424, xavier.edu/montessorilab-school Established in 1966, the Lab School educates children from many cultures and diverse communities, using a rich curriculum based on methods and philosophy of the Montessori Teacher Education Program. Ages: 3–6 Capacity: 48, waiting list Hours: Mon–Fri, 9 a.m.–12 p.m., multiage groupings; all-day kindergarten 9 a.m.–3 p.m. except Friday afternoons Extended care: 12–5:30 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Both school and parents provide healthy, nutritious snacks; nut-free environment Child/teacher ratio: 8:1 Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited, AMI elementary certification, fully affiliated member of AMS since 1968, early childhood classrooms led by two certified Montessori teachers with Master’s degrees Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $4,483–$5,232
Open House Dates Oct. 19, 2014 and Jan. 25, 2015
Giving children
purpose and passion for learning Preschool through 6th grade
Licensed by State of Ohio and affiliated by the American Montessori Society Each classroom has two full-time, Montessori-credentialed teachers Offers half-day and full-day preschool, and full-day kindergarten Integrates nature studies at all class levels featuring an extraordinary, 8-acre natural environment and a full-time naturalist Provides classes with Spanish, music, ďŹ tness, and yoga specialists, as well as a full library Utilizes technology for research, presentation and accompaniment to curriculum in grades 1 through 6 Enriches curriculum with a variety of optional extracurricular programs Offers before- and after-school childcare
927 Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Bannonville Road (1 mile east of downtown Loveland)
www.cmhschool.com
Seeing is believing! Schedule a tour by calling (513) 683-4757
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NORTH
BLUE ASH EDUCATIONAL BUILDING 10149 Kenwood Rd., Blue Ash, (513) 891-1723, blue ashchildcare.com Children of all ages enjoy 11,000 square feet of indoor space and seven acres of outdoor play areas, including a Discovery Forest and Children’s Garden. Staff has combined 346 years of experience at this location. Ages: 6 weeks–K, up to age 10 for beforeand after-school care Capacity: 334; waiting list for 6 months–2 years, spots available for others Hours: 6 a.m.–6:45 p.m. Extended care: Beforeand after-school care available for school-aged kids Style of teaching: NAEYC-aligned, follows Erik Erikson’s theories of psychosocial development Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and snacks include fresh fruit and vegetables, whole-wheat or whole-grain pastas and breads Child/teacher
INSPIRING YOUNG MINDS Our holistic approach nourishes young minds and allows children the opportunity to learn, explore, play & grow in a unique environment. 18 Months - 5 years Art Music Yoga Spanish Science Monthly visits from the Cincinnati Zoo!
Here are a few of our Tots’ masterpieces replicating Andy Warhol, Picasso, Henri Matisse, Eric Carle, Van Gogh, Monet & more!
MASON • 6408 THORNBERRY COURT • (513) 770-6776 • WWW.CREATIVETOTS.COM TO SEE MORE OF WHAT OUR CREATIVE TOTS DO IN THE CLASSROOM, VISIT OUR BLOG: CREATIVETOTSMASON.WORDPRESS.COM 110
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ratio: Follows state ratios Awards or designations: Hamilton County Public Health Department Clean Kitchen Award since 2011, fully compliant with ODE, advanced level in Ohio’s Drug Free Safety Program Enrolls students with disabilities: No Cost: $165–$234/week
THE CAMPUS AT KIDS FIRST
7900 E. Kemper Rd., Blue Ash, (513) 629-5437, thecampuskf.com Along with indoor and outdoor discovery and fun, children of all ages participate in physical education classes every day to help instill a healthy fitness habit and mind-body connections. Ages: 6 weeks–5 years Capacity: 96, limited spots available Hours: 6:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m. Style of teaching: Emergent curriculum with themed study units Meals: Lunches catered by The Veg Head with natural, organic, and gluten-free options; breakfast and snacks provided Child/teacher ratio: 4:1
infants, 7:1 toddlers, 9:1 preschool and pre-K, 12:1 kindergarten Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $112–$308/week
CENTRAL MONTESSORI ACADEMY
1904 Springdale Rd., Springfield Twp., (513) 7425800, centralmontessori academy.com CMA offers an integrated curriculum plus an education of the heart, nurturing each child’s self-confidence, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. This authentic Montessori experience includes self-correcting materials and a natural playground. Ages: 2½–6 Capacity: 100, spots available Hours: Mixed-age classes 3, 4, or 5 days a week; half-day mornings 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m., full day 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Extended care: 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Nutritious snacks, parents provide lunch Child/teacher ratio: 12:1 Awards or designations: Affiliated with AMS, mem-
ber of OAIS, AMS, CMS, and IMC Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $4,705–$9,320
CHAI TOTS EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
7587 Central Parke Blvd., Mason, (513) 234-0777, chaitots.com The only Jewish Montessori in Ohio, Chai Tots provides small, family-like classes that encourage inquisitiveness and self-expression so children can feel comfortable exploring and learning. Ages: 6 weeks–6 years Capacity: 47; waiting list for infants, spots available for other ages Hours: 9 a.m.–12 p.m., 12:30–3:30 p.m. Extended care: 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Snacks including fresh fruit provided, parents provide packed lunch Child/teacher ratio: 3:1 infants, 7:1 toddlers and preschool Awards or designations: Member of IMC, JEAMS Enrolls students with disabilities: Case by case Cost: $4,160–$8,860
CINCINNATI CHRISTIAN COUGAR CUBS PRESCHOOL
7350 Dixie Hwy., Fairfield, (513) 874-8500, cincinnati christian.org CCS is a nondenominational, independent Christian school with flexible class options. Teachers follow a Houghton-Mifflin curriculum with thematic units, plus include weekly Bible lessons. Ages: 3–5 Capacity: 20 preschool, 24 Transitional Kindergarten; spots available Hours: Preschool Tues and Thurs, 8:15–11:45 a.m.; Transitional Kindergarten Mon, Wed, and Fri or Mon–Fri, 8:15–11:45 a.m. Extended care: Yes, 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Christian-based with Montessori approach Meals: Hot lunch available for full-day preschool, nutritious snacks each session Child/teacher ratio: 10:1 preschool, 12:1 Transitional Kindergarten Awards or designations: AdvancED, ACSI, ODE Enrolls students with disabilities? Yes, case by case Cost: $2,496–$7,416
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Learn more at stursulavilla.org t (513) 871-7218 THE BABYGUIDE
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THE A TO Z GUIDE CINCINNATI EARLY LEARNING CENTER (CELC), HARRISON 498 S. State St., Harrison, (513) 367-2129, celcinc. org/harrison.aspx CELC is a nonprofit, nationally accredited United Way agency managing six childcare centers in the Greater Cincinnati region. By partnering with the family and providing low child-to-staff rations, CELC offers a high-quality early learning experience. Ages: 18 months–12 years Capacity: 52, spots available Hours: Mon–Fri, 6 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Developmental and constructivist approach Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks Child/ teacher ratio: 6:1 infants/ toddlers, 10:1 preschool Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited; 4 stars, Ohio Step Up to Quality Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $170–$195/week
CINCINNATI HILLS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY CHCA Nor th Campus: 11312 Snider Rd., Symmes Twp., (513) 247-0900, chca-oh.org CHCA creates a classroom environment that is safe, joyful, community-oriented, productive, and academically engaging. The curriculum emphasizes social, emotional, and academic learning as well as spiritual development. Ages: 3-5 Capacity: 48, limited spots available Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:30–11:30 a.m. or 12–3 p.m. Extended care: Yes, 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Christian; Thematic Units with Responsive Classroom Approach, guided by NAEYC and OELCS Meals: Breakfast, snacks, hot or boxed lunches available Child/ teacher ratio: 8:1 Awards or designations: ISACS accredited Enrolls students with disabilities: Case by case Cost: $6,495–$12,495 (See also CHCA Otto Armleder Campus)
THE COMPASS SCHOOL 9370 Waterstone Blvd., Montgomery, (513) 6838833, thecompassschool. com As partners in learn-
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ing, teachers follow an emergent curriculum based on the children’s interests, allowing them to experience a particular interest in great detail and thus build an enthusiasm for knowledge. Ages: Infant–6 years Capacity: 156; waiting list for infant/ toddler programs, spots available for others Hours: 2-, 3-, or 5-day programs, full or half days, infants full-day only Extended care: Yes, up to age 12, 6:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m. Style of teaching: Reggio Emilia–inspired, project-based approach Meals: Morning and afternoon snacks, catered lunches Child/ teacher ratio: 4:1 infants, 7:1 toddlers, 10:1 preschool Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $350– $1,300/month
CORNERSTONE CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL 7600 Princeton Glendale Rd., Liberty Twp., (513) 8747870, cornerstonechurch. o rg /p re s c h o o l CCP’s committed and long-term staff provide enrichment opportunities for children through a developmentally appropriate curriculum, along with an involved parent auxiliary. Ages: 3–5 Capacity: 224, spots available Hours: 2-day, 3-day, or 4-day classes, 9:30 a.m.–12 p.m. or 12:45–3:15 p.m. Extended care: No Style of teaching: Child and teacher-directed Meals: Snacks, peanut-free school Child/ teacher ratio: 12:2 3-yearolds, 14:2 4-year-olds, 15:2 5-year-olds Awards or designations: 3 stars, Ohio Step Up to Quality Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, case by case Cost: $1,080–$1,665
CREATIVE TOTS Two locations: 6408 Thornberry Court, Suite 210, Mason, (513) 7706776, creativetotsmason. com; 7803 Laurel Ave., Madeira, (513) 272-2223, creativetots.com Balancing the traditional and innovative, Creative Tots is a private, nine-month preschool program embracing the fine arts, following a child’s natural interests to inspire success and increased self-confidence. Ages: 18 months–5 years
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Capacity: 66–120; in Mason, spots available in toddler and pre-K programs, waiting list for preschool; in Madeira, spots available in toddler afternoon classes, waiting list for all other programs Hours: Toddler and pre-K classes Mon–Fri 9–11:30 a.m., pre-K Mon–Fri 12–2:30 p.m. Extended care: Yes, enrichment programs including music, art, soccer, Spanish, and yoga until 1 p.m. Style of teaching: Constructivist approach with Montessori activities, aligned with Howard Gardner’s approach to multiple intelligences Meals: Parents provide lunch and snacks Child/teacher ratio: 6:1 toddlers, 7:1 early 3s, 8:1 preschool and pre-K Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, case by case Cost: $2,100–$11,000
demic preschool experience where students focus, develop, practice, and reflect on developmentally appropriate activities, including infant sign language and computers for ages 3 and older. Ages: 6 weeks–5 years Capacity: 210, spots available for some classes Hours: 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Traditional and Montessori blend Meals: Well-balanced lunch and two nutritious snacks daily Child/teacher ratio: 5:1 infants, 6:1 toddlers, 7:1 2-year-olds, 12:1 3-year-olds, 14:1 4 and up Awards or designations: Cincinnati Family Best of Parenting 2010–2011 Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $243–$315/week
CRÈME DE LA CRÈME PRESCHOOL
4215 Malsbary Rd., Blue Ash, (513) 793-4122, gingerbreadacademy. net Through hands-on learning experiences in a nurturing and enriching environment, children’s growth is fostered with benefiting the whole child in mind, especially promoting a positive self-concept. Ages: 6 weeks–K Capacity: 180; waiting list of 10–12 weeks, depending on age group Hours: Mon–Fri 6:30 a.m.–6 p.m. with open door policy for drop off and pick up Style of teaching: Constructivist curriculum, aligned with OELC standards Meals: Tuition includes hot lunch plus morning and afternoon snacks Child/teacher ratio: Follows state standards for child/teacher ratios; additional staff includes full-time floaters to classrooms; 4:1 infants Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: Available upon request
5324 Natorp Blvd., Mason, (513) 459-4300, creme delacreme.com With 24 centers throughout the nation, Crème offers a spacious learning center with separate novel enrichment rooms featuring unique programs such as music, theater, library, TV studio, and gym. Your child rotates activities throughout the day, balancing learning with movement. Ages: 6 weeks–6 years, up to 12 for after care Capacity: 300, spots available in some classes Hours: Half-day program 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., or full-day Extended care: 6:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m. Style of teaching: Team teaching, primary and enrichment teachers Meals: Well-balanced meals prepared fresh daily; snacks offered throughout the day, including a Travel Treat for the road Child/ teacher ratio: 4:1 infants, up to 10:1 kindergarten, always exceeds state guidelines Awards or designations: AdvancED accredited, NAEYC affiliated Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $470–$1,494/month
THE GARDNER SCHOOL OF BLUE ASH 9920 Carver Rd., Blue Ash, (513) 985-9444, thegardnerschool.com This private, franchise school offers a safe aca-
GINGERBREAD ACADEMY
GOOD SHEPHERD NURSERY SCHOOL 7701 Kenwood Rd., Kenwood, (513) 891-1733, gsns. info Acting as a bridge between home and school, GSNS offers concerned and experienced teachers who help encourage your child’s strengths and guide their overall development. Ages: 3–5 Capacity: 150, contact for availability Hours: 2-day, 3-day, or
4-day classes, 9–11:30 a.m. or 12:30–3 p.m. Extended care: No Meals: Nutritious snack served daily Child/ teacher ratio: 7:1–9:1 Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, case by case Cost: $120–$180/month
KIDDIE ACADEMY OF MASON 6202 Snider Rd., Mason, (513) 457-4932, kiddie academy10.reachlocal. net/academies/mason A national franchise, Kiddie Academy conflates character education and standards-based learning curriculum, enabling children the opportunity to make decisions and explore at their own pace, empowering them to learn and grow. Ages: 6 weeks–5 years (up to age 12 during summer) Capacity: 186, spots available Hours: 6:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m. Extended care: Yes Style of teaching: Trademark Life Essentials program Meals: Family-style dining; food made on location Child/ teacher ratio: 5:1 infants, 7:1 toddlers, 12:1 preschool, 18:1 school-age Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $240–$286/ week
KINDER GARDEN SCHOOL Two locations: 10969 Reed Hartman Hwy., Blue Ash, (513) 791-4300; 5900 West Chester Rd., West Chester, (513) 874-3100; kindergardenschool.com With a focus on holistic education involving the child, staff, and family, local and family-owned Kinder Garden Schools offer a fully supportive, fertile, and fun setting to cultivate curiosity and grow the complete child. Ages: 6 weeks– school age (including private grades 1, 2, and 3 at West Chester location) Capacity: 156 Blue Ash, 155 West Chester, spots available Hours: 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Extended care: Yes Style of teaching: Montessori and traditional Meals: Morning and afternoon snacks provided; parents provide lunch, option for catered lunch at West Chester Child/teacher ratio: 15:2 Awards or designations: Best of Parenting Preschool (2012 and 2013); 1 star, Ohio Step Up to Quality Enrolls students with
disabilities: Yes Cost: $190–$280/week
KING OF KINGS PRESCHOOL AND KINDERGARTEN 3621 Social-Fosterville Rd., Mason, (513) 398-6089, koklcms.org/ecem.php This Christian preschool program is designed to provide a secure environment fostering responsible, caring, creative, spontaneous, happy, and independent children in a developmentally appropriate way. Ages: 2–5 Capacity: 86, spots available Hours: Morning, afternoon, or full-day options, 1 to 5 days per week Extended care: No Style of teaching: Christian-based traditional school Meals: Snacks provided, parents provide balanced lunch Child/ teacher ratio: 5:1 2-yearolds, 6:1 3-year-olds, 7:1 4-year-olds, 8:1 5-year-olds Awards or designations: NLSA Enrolls students with disabilities: Case by case Cost: $875–$4,200
LADS AND LASSIES COMMUNITY PRESCHOOL 225 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming, (513) 761-5211, ladsandlassiespreschool. org The project-based curriculum at Lads and Lassies creates authentic learning through student-led, in-depth investigations incorporating life skills, combined with daily writer’s and reader’s workshop and art studio time. Ages: 3–5 Capacity: 40, waiting list Hours: Classes 9–11:30 a.m. or 12:30–3 p.m., 3 or 4 days/week Extended care: No Style of teaching: Project approach and Reggio Emilia Meals: Pre-K children pack lunch once a week, children bring snacks Child/teacher ratio: 10:1 Awards or designations: 4 stars, Ohio Step Up to Quality Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $1,467–$2,079
LIBERTY BIBLE ACADEMY PRESCHOOL 4900 Old Irwin Simpson Rd., Mason, (513) 7541234, libertybibleacademy. o rg LBAP provides a Christ-centered environment which is socially and emotionally nurturing and intellectually engaging, giving children the opportunity to love God, love others,
and love learning. Ages: 3–5 Capacity: 54, spots available, open enrollment Hours: 2-day, 3-day, or 5-day classes, 8:30–11:30 a.m. Extended care: Yes, 7 a.m.–6 p.m.; also, afternoon enrichment program 11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Style of teaching: Traditional, teacher-created based on OELCS Meals: Hot lunch provided by Tano’s Bistro and Catering Child/ teacher ratio: 7:1 preschool, 12:1 3-year-olds, 14:1 4-year-olds Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, case by case Cost: $285–$450/month
LIBERTY HEIGHTS PRESCHOOL 7904 Princeton Rd., Liberty Township, (513) 759-8430, libertyheights. org/#/ministries/libertyheights-preschool At LHP, children experience a theme-based curriculum each month in a print-rich environment to facilitate reading readiness. Learning includes dramatic play, science and nature, culture, and sign language. Ages: 12 weeks–5 years Capacity: 250, spots available depending on age and class Hours: September through May, Mon–Thurs 9 a.m.–4 p.m.; classes 9:30 a.m.–12 p.m. or 1–3:30 p.m. Extended care: No Style of teaching: Christian-based kindergarten prep Meals: Parents provide snacks Child/teacher ratio: 5:1 babies, 12:2 toddlers, 12:2 age 3, 14:2 ages 4–5 Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, case by case Cost: $100–$170/ month
LITTLE SPROUTS LEARNING CENTER 11177 Springfield Pike, Springdale, (513) 7714444, littlesprouts.info A ministry of the Springdale Church of the Nazarene, Little Sprouts is a nine-month preschool offering learning opportunities through active play and discovery, including reading, art, science, and health and safety. Ages: 2–5 Capacity: 60, spots available Hours: 2or 3-day programs, 9:30– 11:45 a.m. or 12:15–2:30 p.m. Extended care: No Style of teaching: Developmental and hands-on Meals: Families provide class snacks on a 6-week rotation Child/teacher ra-
tio: 15:2 Enrolls students with disabilities: Case by case Cost: $100/month any program
MAPLE KNOLL MONTESSORI CHILD CENTER 1100 Springfield Pike, Springdale, (513) 7822498, mapleknoll.org/ childcenter.php A private Montessori preschool, Maple Knoll has helped children since 1977 learn through their senses while engendering respect, independence, self-motivation, and inner discipline. The intergenerational program provides beneficial interactions between the children and Maple Knoll nursing care facility residents. Ages: 3–6 Capacity: 33, spots available Hours: Multiage group classes Mon–Fri, 8:30–11:30 a.m., 12:30–3:30 p.m., or fullday 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Extended care: Yes, 8 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Snacks provided, parents provide lunch Child/teacher ratio: 11:1 Enrolls students with disabilities: Case by case Cost: $4,428–$8,343
THE POTTER’S HOUSE CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER 6101 Princeton Glendale Rd., Liberty Twp., (513) 785-2855, ppcog.com/ potter s-house-childdevelopment-center For 20 years, Potter’s House has provided a motivating atmosphere and nurturing Christian environment to strengthen each child’s innate talents. Using developmentally appropriate curriculum encourages maturity and growth for the whole child. Ages: 6 weeks–6 years Capacity: 267; waiting list for nursery, spots available in other classes Hours: Full-day childcare plus nine-month preschool 2, 3, or 4 days per week, morning and afternoon classes Extended care: 6:30 a.m.–6 p.m., also available for school-aged children Style of teaching: Christian Meals: Breakfast, hot lunch, and snack daily Child/teacher ratio: 5:1 infants, 6:1 12–18 months, 7:1 18–36 months, 8:1 3-year-olds, 12:1 4-yearolds, 14:1 5-year-olds Awards or designations:
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PRIMROSE SCHOOL Three locations: 9175 Governors Way, Symmes Twp., (513) 697-6970; 8378 Princeton Glendale Rd., West Chester, (513) 8700630; 5888 Snider Rd., Mason, (513) 336-6756; also has Dayton locations; primroseschools.com Primrose is an accredited private preschool franchise which provides an educational, healthy, and happy childcare experience with enthusiastic teachers who promote integrity, fairness, and social responsibility. Ages: Infant–K Capacity: 160 Symmes, 182 West Chester, 193 Mason; spots available Hours: 6:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m. Extended care: After-school Explorers Club for 5–12 year olds Style of teaching:
Conflation of child-initiated (Montessori, Gesell, Piaget), teacher-guided (Vygotsky), social-emotional (Erikson), and character development Meals: Yes, nutritious meals and snacks featuring fruits, vegetables, whole grains Child/teacher ratio: 4:1 infants, 4:1 young toddler, 6:1 toddler and early preschool I, 8:1 early preschool II, 11:1 preschool, 12:1 pre-K Awards or designations: AdvancED accredited Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, on case-by-case basis Cost: $105–$290/week depending on class and schedule
ROCKWERN ACADEMY’S EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CENTER (ECEC) 8401 Montgomery Rd., Kenwood, (513) 984-3770, rockwernacademy.org Rockwern Academy’s ECEC follows general developmental and Jewish curriculum to keep the youngest children wide-eyed with wonder and smiling, simultaneously building
emergent literacy, experiential learning, physical development, and social skills. Ages: 18 months–K Capacity: 90; waiting list for 2-year-old program, spots available for others Hours: Classes Mon, Wed, Fri 8:15–11:15 a.m., or fiveday pre-K 8:15 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Extended care: 7 a.m.–6 p.m. (Fri until 5 p.m.) Style of teaching: Child-centered, Jewish education including Hebrew Meals: Hot lunch available Child/teacher ratio: 12:3 18-month class, 10:2 age 2, 11:1 age 3, 12:2 age 4 and up Awards or designations: RAVSAK and PEJE affiliated Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, case by case Cost: $3,850–$9,750
SHARONVILLE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH WEEKDAY NURSERY 3751 Creek Rd., Sharonville, (513) 563-8278, sumcns.org By providing a positive, developmentally appropriate nine-month curriculum including hands-on enrichment activities, the program helps
children to become confident and successful learners and decision makers. Ages: 2–5 Capacity: 220, waiting list for some classes Hours: 2-day, 3-day, or 4-day programs depending on child’s age, halfday programs 9 a.m.–12 p.m. or 12:40–3:40 p.m. Extended care: No Style of teaching: Christian Meals: Snacks available Child/teacher ratio: 7:1 2-year-olds, 8:1 3-yearolds, 9:1 4-year-olds, 12:1 5-year-olds Awards or designations: 3 stars, Ohio Step Up to Quality Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $145–$226/month
SYCAMORE COMMUNITY SCHOOLS: MAPLE DALE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 6100 Hagewa Dr., Blue Ash/Montgomery, (513) 6 8 6-17 2 0, s yc a m o re schools.org Children in multiaged groupings are fostered within safe, challenging, and joyful environments to facilitate growth in pre-academic and social skills. Ages: 3–5
creating
BEAUTIFUL SMILES
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The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children get an orthodontic check-up by the age of 7. Our new patient visits are complimentary, so call us today for your new patient visit.
West Chester Location 7242 Tylers Corner Drive West Chester, OH 45069 (513) 777-7060
Cincinnati Location 9505 Montgomery Road Cincinnati, OH 45242 (513) 777-7060
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Capacity: 60, waiting list Hours: Mon–Thurs, 9:15–11:45 a.m. or 1:15–3:45 p.m. Extended care: No Style of teaching: Follows OELCS guidelines Meals: Onsite kitchen serves breakfast and lunch daily, including whole grains, low-fat dairy, fresh produce, and low-sodium products Child/teacher ratio: 12:1 Awards or designations: Finalist for Best Preschool, Best of the North by Cincy Magazine (September 2013) Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $2,600
years Capacity: 14 infants, 40 2½–4 years olds, 45 3½–6 year olds; open enrollment, waiting list when necessary Hours: Half day or full day (four or five days a week) Extended care: 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and snacks Child/teacher ratio: 3:1 infants and toddlers, 4:1 2½–4-yearolds, 7:1 3½–6-year-olds Awards or designations: Member of AMS and CMS Enrolls students with disabilities: Case by case Cost: $910–$1,285/month
3–6 Capacity: 30 halfday preschool, 14 all-day preschool; spots available Hours: Mon–Fri, half-day 8:30–11:30 a.m. or full-day 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Extended care: 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Children bring sack lunch following nutritional guidelines outlined in parent handbook Child/ teacher ratio: 10:1 halfday preschool; 7:1 all-day preschool Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $6,460–$9,560
TERRY’S MONTESSORI SCHOOL
EAST
1160 St. Rt. 131, Milford, (513) 831-8115, milford preschool.com For more than 30 years, Children’s Villa has provided a daycare and developmental preschool environment with varied opportunities for hands-on learning, supporting free expression and fostering age-appropriate development. Ages: 3 months–6 years Capacity: 95; waiting list for infants (1–2 months), spots available in other classes
425 and 435 Crescent Ave., 209 Wyoming Ave., 415 Poplar Ave., Wyoming, (513) 761-3836, terrys montessori.com Family-owned-and-operated, Terry’s offers a unique, homelike setting in four different houses where children can float freely from room to room following their interests, cultivating a healthy self-image for each child. Ages: 6 weeks–6
CHILDREN’S MEETING HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL 927 O’Bannonville Rd., Loveland, (513) 683-4757, cmhschool.com Through gentle guidance and carefully prepared environments, CMHM supports students in self-direction and independence to educate the whole child physically, cognitively, socially, and emotionally. Ages:
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CHILDREN’S VILLA EARLY LEARNING CENTER
Hours: Year-round nursery school Mon–Fri, 9–11:30 a.m., available as standalone program 2–5 days a week Extended care: 6:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Play-based, child-centered Meals: Nutritionally balanced, home-cooked meals and snacks prepared by on-site cook; incorporates weekly cooking days, offering children nutritional education Child/teacher ratio: 3:1 infants, 6:1 toddlers and preschool, 8:1 pre-K Awards or designations: 2011 Clermont County Community Choice Awards: #2 Daycare Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: Full day, $175–$225/ week, 5 percent discount if paid monthly, discounts available for regular parent volunteers; two mornings a week, $180/month; three mornings a week, $200/ month
CINCINNATI COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL 6905 Given Rd., Indian Hill, (513) 561-7298, country day.net CCDS’s Pre-Pri-
Fairmont Preschool Providing Positive, Early Childhood Education Since 1957
• We provide a Christian atmosphere where each child can grow academically, emotionally and spiritually • Highly qualified and well-trained teachers • Spacious classrooms • For information or to schedule a visit call 937-299-3539 or email: cpetrello@fairmontchurch.org
CALL 1.800.846.4333 O R V ISIT C IN C IN N AT I M AG A Z I N E. C O M
3705 Far Hills Avenue Kettering, OH 45429 www.fairmontchurch.org THE BABYGUIDE
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mary program focuses on child-centered activities allowing for exploration, investigation, communication, and problem-solving. Parents can opt for an experiential environment with mixed ages or a structured environment with sameaged children. Ages: 18 months–5 years Capacity: 140, possible spots available Hours: Early Childhood Program 3 or 5 days, 8:30–11:45 a.m.; pre-K (Montessori or traditional) 5 days, 8:30–11:45 a.m. Extended care: Yes, flexible options 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori or traditional pre-K available Meals: Yes Child/teacher ratio: 6:1 younger children, 9:1 older children Awards or designations: Approved by AMS, ISACS, and ODE Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, case by case Cost: $6,150–$18,190
CINCINNATI NATURE CENTER PRESCHOOL 4949 Tealtown Rd., Milford, (513) 831-1711, cincy nature.org/teacherschool
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programs Children explore diverse habitats outdoors during all seasons: making discoveries, practicing stewardship, and building self-confidence. Observant teachers facilitate children in both collaborative learning opportunities and autonomous responsibility and decision-making. One of two preschools in the area with access to a nature playscape. Ages: 3–5, mixed-age groups Capacity: 45, waiting list Hours: Nine-month preschool; Mon, Wed, Fri, 8:30–11:30 a.m.; Tues, Thurs, 8:30– 11:30 a.m.; or Tues, Thurs, 12:30–3:30 p.m. Extended care: No Style of teaching: Nature-driven, Inquiry and Montessori-based Meals: Healthy snacks provided Child/teacher ratio: 8:1 Enroll students with disabilities? Yes Cost: $2,740–$4,110
CINCINNATI WALDORF SCHOOL Main Campus: 6743 Chestnut St., Mariemont, (513) 541-0220; Mashewa Farm Campus: 7550 Given Rd.,
Indian Hill, (513) 271-0585, cinciwaldorf.org CWS is an independent school offering both a classroom and outdoor preschool experience. Calm, warm, and loving environments ensure a child’s early experience of school is joyful and engaging, providing a strong foundation for intellectual growth. Ages: 3–4 years Capacity: 12 per day per campus, call for availability Hours: 2, 3, or 5 consecutive morning classes, 8:15 a.m.–12 p.m. Extended care: Available on main campus until 6 p.m. Style of teaching: Waldorf Meals: Nutritious and organic snacks provided, parents provide lunch Child/teacher ratio: 6:1 Awards or designations: Member of AWSNA and WECAN Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, as long as CWS can meet the child’s needs Cost: $3,841–$7,107
GARDEN MONTESSORI SCHOOL 1318 Nagel Rd., Cherry Grove, (513) 474-4933,
gardenmontessorischool. com For 40 years, GMS has provided the foundation for a lifetime of learning, nurturing a child’s curiosity, concentration, and sense of responsibility by providing structure, freedom, and action. Ages: 3–6 Capacity: 47, waiting list Hours: 3- or 5-day program, 9:15 a.m.–12 p.m. Extended care: 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Children pack lunch, morning and afternoon snacks provided for extended care children Child/ teacher ratio: 8:1 Awards or designations: Member CMS Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $440–$895/month
MONTESSORI CENTER ROOM 2505 Riverside Dr., East End, (513) 321-3282, montessoricenterroom. com MCR is a parent-owned nonprofit organization that has been offering preschool education for 50 years. The child-centered environment promotes independence and responsibility
for self while building confidence and self-esteem. Ages: 2½–6 Capacity: 50, waiting list Hours: Half-day classes Mon–Fri, 8:45–11:30 a.m. or 12:30– 3:15 p.m. Extended care: 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Snacks provided, children pack lunches Child/teacher ratio: 10:1 Awards or designations: AMS accredited Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $4,765
ST. LOUIS SCHOOL 250 N. Broadway, Owensville, (513) 732-0636, saint louisschool.catholicweb. com This Catholic parochial school supports the importance of parents as the primary influence in a child’s religious education. The program emphasizes the development of the whole person, recognizing the dignity, abilities, and gifts of every child. Ages: 3–4 Capacity: 44, spots available Hours: Mon and Wed 8:30–11 a.m.; Tues, Thurs, Fri, 8:30–11 a.m. or 12:30–3 p.m. Extended care: No
Make sure what your child learns this year lasts for years to come. Give your child everything needed to prepare for school and for life with Life Essentials.SM
• Quality care for ages 6 weeks to 12 years • State-of-the-art Academy including a computer lab • Master and bachelor degree lead teachers with experience • Summer camp and before & after school programs • Infant, toddler, & preschool programs • Private full day kindergarten • Secure web cameras in every room • Hot, nutritious lunch and snacks served daily • Secure entry doors with touch screen • Age appropriate academic curriculum • Part-time and flexible schedules available
513-234-0699 6202 Snider Road • Mason, OH 45040 • www.kiddieacademy.com/Mason THE BABYGUIDE
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A CHILD’S GARDEN
Style of teaching: Catholic, traditional Meals: No Child/teacher ratio: 11:1 Awards or designations: Accredited by the Archdiocese Enrolls students with disabilities: Case by case Cost: $1,100–$1,600
ST. URSULA VILLA SCHOOL 3660 Vineyard Place, Columbia-Tusculum, (513) 871-7218, stursulavilla.org A coed Catholic elementary school in the Ursuline tradition, St. Ursula Villa School fosters academic excellence by nurturing the whole child in a Christ-centered commitment to society. Ages: 2–5 Capacity: Varies by program, total capacity 145; limited spots available in 3-year-old program Hours: Toddler class 2 mornings a week, 8:15–10:45 a.m.; half- or full-day options for 3–4 year-olds, 3 or 5 days a week Extended care: 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m., preschool– grade 8 Style of teaching: Montessori or traditional Meals: Students pack nut-free lunches Child/teacher ratio: 4:1 toddlers, 9:1 average for early childhood program Awards or designations: Recognized as a School of Contribution by Children, Inc. Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, case by case Cost: $2,046–$9,636
THE VILLAGE PRESCHOOL 6137 Salem Rd., Anderson Twp., (513) 232-9966, thevillagepreschool.net Classes combine teacher-directed learning with independent child-led activities to promote a child’s most important learning asset—curiosity. Ages: 2½–5 Capacity: 110, spots available Hours: Classes 1–3 days a week, 9–11:30 a.m. or 12:30–3 p.m., plus enrichment classes on Thurs and Fri Extended care: No Style of teaching: Traditional play-based Meals: Children may pack lunch for Lunch Bunch twice a week and Lunch with Legos once a week Child/teacher ratio: 10:2 3-year-olds, 16:2 4- and 5-year-olds Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $577–$2,065
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5427 Julmar Dr., Covedale, (513) 451-0330, achilds garden.us Located on the campus of St. Antoninus Church and School, A Child’s Garden is a nine-month preschool program offering an integrated and interactive approach to learning, promoting self-discovery through touching, experimenting, and exploring. Ages: 3–5 Capacity: 137, waiting list Hours: Mon, Wed, Fri or Tues, Thurs options, 9–11:30 a.m. (or 12:30 p.m.) or 12–2:30 p.m. Extended care: No Style of teaching: DAP (developmentally appropriate practices) with Creative Curriculum, aligned with NAEYC Meals: Nutritious snacks provided Child/ teacher ratio: 10:1 3-yearolds, 12:1 4- and 5-yearolds Awards or designations: 4 stars, Ohio Step Up to Quality Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, case by case Cost: $155–$235/month
DATER MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2840 Boudinot Ave., Westwood, (513) 363-0900, datermontessori.cps-k12. org A magnet program within CPS, Dater Montessori is an inclusive, diverse, and supportive community where children learn to become independent thinkers and considerate citizens equipped to surpass academic expectations. Ages: 3–6 Capacity: 168, waiting list Hours: Halfday program, 9:15–11:50 a.m.; or full-day program Extended care: Limited spots for after-school care from 12–3:45 p.m., early drop off 7–8:45 a.m. for small fee Style of teaching: Mixed-age Montessori Meals: Lunch served family-style, no charge for preschool Child/teacher ratio: 12:1 Awards or designations: 5 stars, Ohio Step Up to Quality Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, two classes through early childhood Cost: $3,100–$6,000 per year, paid monthly; sliding scale grants available
WINTON HILL CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER 6331 Center Hill Ave., Finneytown, (513) 634-5437, b r i g h t h o r i zo n s .c o m /
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pgwintonhill Open to all current Procter & Gamble employees, this Bright Horizons childcare facility has developmentally appropriate educational environments to empower children to become lifelong learners. Ages: 6 weeks–5 years Capacity: 122, spots available Hours: Mon– Fri, 6:30 a.m.–6 p.m., 2 to 5 days a week Style of teaching: Developmentally appropriate practices Meals: Full-time cook provides breakfast, lunch, and snacks Child/teacher ratio: 4:1 infants, 5:2 toddlers, 10:1 preschool and pre-K Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: Call for information NORTHERN KENTUCKY
COUNTRY HILLS MONTESSORI 960 Highland Ave., Ft. Thomas, (859) 442-0500, chmschools.com/ft-thomas Country Hills Montessori has seven locations in the Greater Cincinnati area, each within healthcare centers to facilitate intergenerational learning, promoting inclusiveness and collaboration across generations. Other locations: West Chester, Eastgate, Montgomery, Oakley, Springboro, Harrison. Ages: 3–6 Capacity: 30, spots available Hours: 3- or 5-day programs; morning 9–11:30 a.m., afternoon 12:30–3 p.m., full-day kindergar ten Extended care: No Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Snacks provided, parents pack lunch for full-day program Child/ teacher ratio: 7:1 Enrolls students with disabilities: Case by case Cost: $2,900–$5,650
GARDENS AT GREENUP CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER/CHILDREN, INC. 133 E. 11th St., Covington, (859) 261-4282, children inc.org Serving young families and children from economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, Gardens at Greenup/Children, Inc. is dedicated to helping children achieve success through innovative educational excellence, compassionate family support, and collective community leadership. Ages: 6 weeks–5 years Capacity: 18, spots
available Hours: Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–5 p.m. Style of teaching: Constructivist, high-scope curriculum Meals: Nutritionally balanced meals and snacks Child/teacher ratio: 4:1 infants, 5:1 toddlers, 8:1 preschool Awards or designations: NAC accredited; 3 stars, Kentucky Stars for Kids Now Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $160-$165/week, United Way or state funding available
IMAGINE TOMORROW CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER/CHILDREN, INC. 1260 Pacific Ave., Erlanger, (859) 727-3575, childreninc.org Serving young families and children of Toyota employees only, Imagine Tomorrow/ Children, Inc. is dedicated to helping children achieve success through innovative educational excellence, compassionate family support, and collective community leadership. Ages: 6 weeks–5 years Capacity: 180; select spots available, call for availability Hours: Mon–Fri, 6:30 a.m.–7 p.m. Style of teaching: Traditional (birth–3 years) and Montessori Meals: Nutritionally balanced meals and snacks Child/teacher ratio: 4:1 infants, 5:1 1-year-olds, 7:1 2-year-olds, 10:1 preschool Awards or designations: NAC accredited; 4 stars, Kentucky Stars for Kids Now Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: Call for information
MONTESSORI EARLY LEARNING ACADEMY/ CHILDREN, INC. 419 Altamont Rd., Covington, (859) 491-1455, childreninc.org Montessori Early Learning Academy/ Children, Inc. is dedicated to helping children achieve success through innovative educational excellence, compassionate family support, and collective community leadership. Ages: 2–5 Capacity: 80, spots available Hours: Mon–Fri, 6:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori and traditional Meals: Nutritionally balanced meals and snacks Child/teacher ratio: 8:1 2-year-olds, 10:1 other ages Awards or designations: NAC accredited; 3 stars, Kentucky
Keep your whole family healthy At every stage of life Mercy Health has doctors who focus on family medicine—for every age—in neighborhoods all over Greater Cincinnati. For newborn through adolescent care, you can find Mercy Health pediatricians at Forest Park and Rookwood Medical Center.
Forest Park Internal Medicine and Pediatrics 1230 West Kemper Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45240 513-924-8200
Rookwood Internal Medicine and Pediatrics 4101 Edwards Road, Second Floor Cincinnati, OH 45209 513-981-4646
Find other Mercy Health doctors near you Visit e-mercy.com or call 513-981-2222. 446CINADV (4/14)
THE A TO Z GUIDE Stars for Kids Now Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $155–$160/ week, United Way or state funding available
NEWPORT PRESCHOOL CENTER/CHILDREN, INC. 30 W. Eighth St., Newport, (859) 431-2075, children inc.org Newport Preschool Center/Children, Inc. is dedicated to helping children achieve success through innovative educational excellence, compassionate family support, and collective community leadership. Ages: 3–5 Capacity: 40, spots available Hours: Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–5 p.m., full- and half-day programs Style of teaching: Montessori and traditional Meals: Nutritionally balanced meals and snacks Child/teacher ratio: Meets or exceeds state guidelines Awards or designations: NAC accredited; 4 stars, Kentucky
Stars for Kids Now Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: Sliding scale fees, United Way or state funding available
NORTHERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER 147 Nunn Dr., Newport, (859) 572-6338, early childhoodcenter.nku/edu Serving children of students and faculty at NKU and the community, the ECC works collaboratively with parents and university departments to benefit children as they experience the joys of childhood. Ages: 12 months–5 years Capacity: 15, ages 12–30 months; 30, ages 30 months–5 years; waiting list with priority given to NKU students Hours: Half-day, 7 a.m.– 12:30 p.m.; full-day, 7 a.m.– 6 p.m. for 2, 3, or 5 days a week Style of teaching: Play-based, Reggio Emilia Meals: Breakfast and afternoon snack provided, parents provide lunches Child/teacher ratio: 4:1 toddlers, 8:1 preschool
Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited; 2 stars, Kentucky Stars for Kids Now Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, case by case Cost: $50– $250/week
teachers are AMS certified Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes, case by case Cost: $3,845–$4,885
PRINCE OF PEACE SCHOOL
203 W. Rivercenter Blvd., Covington, (859) 6692770, childreninc.org A federal center sponsored by the IRS and General Services Administration, Treasure House/Children, Inc. is open to government employees and the community, and is dedicated to helping children achieve success through innovative educational excellence, compassionate family support, and collective community leadership. Ages: 6 weeks–5 years Capacity: 115; waiting list, some preschool spots available Hours: Mon–Fri, 6:15 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori and traditional Meals: Nutritionally balanced meals and snacks Child/teacher ratio: 4:1 infants, 6:1 toddlers, 10:1 2-year-olds, 12:1
625 Pike St., Covington, (859) 431-5153, popcov. com Featuring small classes, a diverse urban population, and an active parent association, POPS offers a nurturing atmosphere promoting self-respect, and respect of others and the environment. Ages: 3–5 Capacity: 40, spots available for 3- and 4-yearolds Hours: Half-day, 8–11 a.m. with after-care until dismissal; full-day, 7:50 a.m.–2:40 p.m. Extended care: 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Catholic, Montessori Meals: Breakfast and hot lunch available daily; students can also pack lunch Child/teacher ratio: 10:1 Awards or designations: Diocese of Covington, Montessori
TREASURE HOUSE CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER/CHILDREN, INC.
VOTED CINCINNATI’S BEST!
Protect your Family from Germs and Allergens! Cleaning your carpet once a year does much more than extend the life of your V>À«iÌ° Ì } ÛiÃ Þ Õ Ì i « ÀÌ> Ì Li iwÌ v > i> Ì Þ ` À i Û À i Ì° iÜ «i « i >Ài >Ü>Ài Ì >Ì > V>À«iÌ Ã > ÃiVÀiÌ ÀiÃiÀÛ À v > iÀ}i ð / iÞ ÌÀ>« `ÕÃÌ] ` ÀÌ] «iÌ `> `iÀ] ÃÌÕÀi] > ` «iÃÌÃ] iÛi Ü i Û>VÕÕ i` Ài}Õ >À Þ° ÀiµÕi Ì V>À«iÌ V i> } V> «À Ûi Þ ÕÀ ` À > À µÕ> ÌÞ LÞ Ài Û } Ì iÃi >À vÕ « ÕÌ> Ìð v ̽à i} iVÌi`] Ì V> ÌÕÀ Ì > LÀii` } }À Õ ` v À L } V> V Ì> > Ìà > ` « ÕÌ> Ìð - Ü i Þ Õ ii` Ì i LiÃÌ µÕ> ÌÞ V i> } > ` ÃiÀÛ Vi] ÌÀÕÃÌ Ì i iÝ«iÀÌà >Ì 7 ` iÀ½Ã° 7i >Ûi Lii ÃiÀÛ } Ì i V >Ì /À -Ì>Ìi v À ÛiÀ £ää Þi>Àð We also care about your safety! We only hire professional techs that are thoroughly L>V }À Õ ` V iV i` > ` `ÀÕ} ÌiÃÌi`° / iÞ >Ài V ÕÀÌi Õà > ` Õ v À i` > ` ÕÀ V «> Þ Ã > , iÀÌ wi` À ° > x£Î® ÎÓ£ ÇÈää Ì V iV ÕÌ ÕÀ ëiV > «À V } > ` ÃV i`Õ i Þ ÕÀ V i> } Ì `>Þ À Û Ã Ì ÕÀ ÜiLà Ìi >Ì Ü ` iÀÃV i> iÀðV °
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3–6-year-olds Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited; 4 stars, Kentucky Stars for Kids Now Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $160–$185/ week, United Way or state funding available
Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited Enrolls students with disabilities? Yes Cost: $4,050
TRENT MONTESSORI
941 Alberta St., Dayton, (937) 229-2158, udayton. e d u /e d u c a t i o n /c e l / bombeckcenter Providing care and education for children through mutual respect, reflective practice, and research, the Bombeck Center is a unique learning environment and demonstration school for UD’s School of Education and Allied Professions. Space available for nursing mothers when visiting. Ages: 6 weeks–5 years Capacity: 126, waiting list with priority given to UD family, students, and alumni Hours: Mon–Fri, 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Style of teaching: Child-directed, based on Montessori, Reggio, other childhood theorists, and Catholic Marianist teachings Meals: Nutritious snacks and lunches provid-
305 Park Ave., Newport, (859) 491-3223, trent montessori.com Trent provides an authentic nine-month preschool Montessori experience to help children meet their developmental and social needs so they may reach their greatest potential and become successful members of the community. Ages: 3–6 years Capacity: 60; ongoing waiting list, parents can place child on waiting list when gender is known Hours: Mon–Fri, 9–11:45 a.m. or 12:45–3:30 p.m. Extended care: 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Parents pack nutritious lunch and provide one week of nutritious, pre-packaged snacks Child/teacher ratio: 10:1
DAYTON
BOMBECK FAMILY LEARNING CENTER
ed Child/teacher ratio: 4:1 infants, 5:1 toddlers, 8:1 preschool Awards or designations: NAEYC accredited; 5 stars, Ohio Step Up to Quality; Top Child Care Center, Dayton Business Journal Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $213-$270/week
Extended care: No Style of teaching: Montessori Meals: Snacks provided, parents pack lunch for full-day program Child/ teacher ratio: 8:1 Enrolls students with disabilities: Case by case Cost: $3,000–$6,200
COUNTRY HILLS MONTESSORI
FAIRMONT PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH PRESCHOOL
325 E . Central Ave., Springboro, (937) 7480868, chmschools.com/ springboro Country Hills Montessori has seven locations in the Greater Cincinnati area, each within healthcare centers to facilitate intergenerational learning, promoting inclusiveness and collaboration across generations. Other locations: West Chester, Eastgate, Montgomery, Oakley, Harrison, and Ft. Thomas. Ages: 3–6 Capacity: 32, waiting list Hours: 3- or 5-day programs; morning 9:15–11:45 a.m., afternoon 12:45–3:15 p.m.; full day 9:15 a.m.–3:15 p.m. for ages 4–6, three full days plus two mornings
3705 Far Hills Ave., Kettering, (937) 299-3539, fairmontchurch.org / preschool.html A self-supporting nonprofit preschool for 57 years, Fairmont Presbyterian offers a Christian atmosphere to provide enrichment and support as your child grows and g a i n s i n d e p e n d e n ce. Ages: 3–4 Capacity: 46, spots available Hours: 2- or 3-day classes Mon– Fri, 8:45–11:30 a.m. Extended care: No Style of teaching: Christian-based Meals: Snacks offered Child/teacher ratio: 8:1 3-year-olds, 10:1 3- and 4-year-olds Enrolls students with disabilities: Yes Cost: $855–$1,125
Physicians
Photo by Essenza Studio & Gallery
Richard B. Heyman, MD Stephen I. Pleatman, MD Ronna Y. Schneider, MD Carla C. Barreau, MD Jennifer F. Ringel, MD Robert P. Wallace, MD Melissa A. T. Wallace, DO Tina M. DuMont, MD Amanda S. Lee, MD Kristin L. Kaltenstadler, MD Karen H. Yeh, MD
Nurse Practitioners Eileen M. Bens, RN, CPNP, IBCLC Karen B. Pollitt, RN, CPNP Shari M. Kehres, MSN, CNP, IBCLC Lindsi M. Meek, RN, PNP-BC
THE BABYGUIDE
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THE A TO Z GUIDE
MEDICAL CARE Obstetrician and pediatrician groups to take care of you and your little one’s medical needs.
CINCINNATI/ NORTHERN KENTUCKY
West Chester, OH 45069, (513) 475-8248
wood, KY 41018, (859) 3012000
PEDIATRICS
JOHN R. JACKSON
GERARD REILLY
These practitioners are listed on Cincinnati Magazine’s 2014 Top Doctors list. To see the complete list, go to cincinnatimagazine. com/topdoctors
OB/GYN Specialists of Northern Kentucky, 20 Medical Village Dr., Suite 302, Edgewood, KY 41017, (859) 341-2510
Seven Hills Women’s Health Centers, 9312 Winton Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231, (513) 922-0009
Pediatricians of Hyde Park, 3666 Paxton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208, (513) 8710684
ELIZABETH KELLY
Mt. Auburn Obstetrics & Gynecologic Associates, Inc., 2123 Auburn Ave., Suite 724, Cincinnati, OH 45219, (513) 241-4774
OBSTETRICS
BRUCE ALLEN 2752 Erie Ave., Suite 3, Cincinnati, OH 45208, (513) 871-0290
SARAH BARTLETT Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates, 3050 Mack Rd., Suite 375, Fairfield, OH 45014, (513) 221-3800
KELLIE FLOOD-SHAFFER UC Health Obstetrics & Gynecology, 222 Piedmont Ave., Suite 8000, Cincinnati, OH 45219, (513) 475-8588 Kurt W. Froehlich, M.D., 140 W Kemper Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45246, (513) 671-0600
SANDY LYNN GARDNER TriHealth Women’s Services Samaritan Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1149 Stone Dr., Harrison, OH 45030, (513) 367-6740 UC Health Obstetrics & Gynecology, 7675 Wellness Way, Suite 400,
THE BABYGUIDE
For Women, Inc., 10475 Reading Rd., Suite 307, Cincinnati, OH 45241, (513) 563-2202
TARA KNIPPER TriHealth: Group Health, 7810 Five Mile Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45230, (513) 246-7000
TriHealth: Group Health, 8245 Northcreek Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45236, (513) 246-7000
MAMATA NARENDRAN Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates, 3050 Mack Rd., Suite 375, Fairfield, OH 45014, (513) 221-3800
ALLANA OAK, D.O.
MARIA GERBER
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MEGAN KESSLER,
SARAH LEWIS
KURT FROEHLICH
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UC Health Obstetrics & Gynecology, 234 Goodman St., Cincinnati, OH 45219, (513) 584-3999
St. Elizabeth Physicians Laborists Edgewood, 1 Medical Village Dr., Edge-
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MABLE ROBERTS
STEPHEN J. SCHUERMANN TriHealth Women’s Services Samaritan Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1149 Stone Dr., Harrison, OH 45030, (513) 367-6740
GRAIG W. SMITH TriHealth Women’s Services Samaritan Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1149 Stone Dr., Harrison, OH 45030, (513) 367-6740
ERIC STAMLER Seven Hills Women’s Health Centers, 5885 Harrison Ave., Suite 3100, Cincinnati, OH 45248, (513) 922-6666
JAMES WENDEL Mt. Auburn Obstetrics & Gynecologic Associates, Inc., 2123 Auburn Ave., Suite 724, Cincinnati, OH 45219, (513) 241-4774
NANCY BAGAMERY
JOSEPH BAILEY TriHealth: Queen City Physicians, 6350 Glenway Ave., Suite 300, Cincinnati, OH 45211, (513) 481-9700
CHRISTOPHER BOLLING Pediatric Associates of Northern Kentucky, 2865 Chancellor Dr., Suites 225 and 120, Crestview Hills, KY 41017, (859) 341-5400 First Time Moms and New Residents only.
ELIZABETH BROWN Pediatricians of Hyde Park, 3666 Paxton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208, (513) 871-0684 First Time Moms only.
CHRISTOPHER CUNHA Pediatric Associates of Northern Kentucky, 2865 Chancellor Dr., Suites 225, Crestview Hills, KY 41017, (859) 341-5400 First Time Moms and New Residents only.
NANCY DEBLASIS TriHealth: Group Health, 8245 Northcreek Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45236, (513) 246-7000
HealthSource of Ohio
How Health Care Should Be Eastgate Pediatrics & Adult Medicine 559 Old SR 74 513.753.2820 Anderson Ob/Gyn 8074 Beechmont Ave. 513.474.2870 2055 Hospital Drive Suite 130 513.732.0870 We accept Medicaid, W Medicare, private discounted fee f for f How Health Care Should Be
www.healthsour w ceof ofohio.com
THE A TO Z GUIDE
3130 Highland Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45219, (513) 584-7425
JONATHAN MUMMA
JEFF DRASNIN ESD Pediatric Group, 905 Main St., Milford, OH 45150, (513) 248-1210
CAMILLE GRAHAM Mid-City Pediatrics, 8250 Kenwood Crossing Way, Cincinnati, OH 45236, (513) 948-8444 Not accepting new patients.
EVELYN JOSEPH Pediatricians of Hyde Park, 3666 Paxton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208, (513) 8710684 Not accepting new patients.
ROBERT LACKER Kenwood Pediatric Associates Inc., 7835 Remington Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45242, (513) 984-1400
DAWN MANFROY TriHealth: Group Health, 7810 Five Mile Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45230, (513) 246-7000
PIERRE MANFROY Northeast Cincinnati Pediatric Associates, 11238 Cornell Park Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45242, (513) 530-0200
CAROLINE MUELLER UC Health Primary Care,
TriHealth: Group Health, 7810 Five Mile Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45230, (513) 246-7000
JOHN JOSEPH ROBINSON JR. TriHealth: Group Health, 9070 Winton Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231, (513) 2467000
ASIM SHABBIR West Side Adult and Pediatric Care, 2450 Kipling Ave., Suite 206, Cincinnati, OH 45239, (513) 681-3500
OBSTETRICS
KETTERING REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE 3533 Southern Blvd., Suite 4100, Kettering, OH 45429, (937) 395-8444, khnet work.org/reproductive
OAK CREEK OB/GYN
SHELLY VOET
PREMIER OB/GYN
Pediatric Associates of Northern Kentucky, 2865 Chancellor Dr., Suites 225 and 120, Crestview Hills, KY 41017, (859) 341-5400 First time moms and new residents only.
JOHN BARTSCH Beacon Or thopaedics and Sports Medicine, 500 E-Business Way, Sharon-
BECOMING MOM
BLUE COCOON 9393 Montgomery Rd., Montgomery, OH 45242, (513) 791-1089, bluecocoonbaby. com Cincinnati’s premier lactation boutique, Blue Cocoon offers education, products, and events for nursing moms.
CASSINELLI AND SHANKER ORTHODONTICS West Chester office: 7242 Tylers Corner Dr., West Chester, OH 45069, (513) 777-7060; Cincinnati office: 9505 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45242, (513) 549-6982; west chesterorthodontics.com Board-certified doctors provide orthodontic care to West Chester, Cincinnati, Mason, and surrounding areas in Ohio.
CENTER FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH AT SYMMES ROAD 1020 Symmes Rd., Fairfield, OH 45014,
THE BABYGUIDE
Cincinnati Magazine’s Top Doctors list does not include Dayton, Ohio, physicians, but these groups serve that area and are worth a look.
TriHealth: Queen City Physicians, 6350 Glenway Ave., Suite 300, Cincinnati, OH 45211, (513) 481-9700
LIBBEY SPIESS
5685 Deerfield Blvd., Mason, OH 45040, (513) 770-6730, becomingmomspa.com Becoming Mom caters to expectant and trying mothers, offering spa services, ultrasounds, clothing, and pregnancy necessities.
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DAYTON
2510 Commons Blvd., Suite 270, Beavercreek, OH 45431, (937) 431-0200; 6438 Wilmington Pike, Suite 300, Centerville, OH 45459, (937) 848-4850; 10 Remick Blvd., Springboro, OH 45066, (937) 886-2705; oakcreekobgyn.com
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
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ville, OH 45241, (513) 3543700
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630 N. Main St., Suite 200, Springboro, OH 45066, (937) 748-8516; 1 Wyoming St., Suite 3140, Dayton, OH 45409, (937) 7488516; other area locations; premierhealthnet.com
WRIGHT STATE PHYSICIANS 1 Wyoming St., Suite 4130, Dayton, OH 45409, (937)
208-6810; 725 University Blvd., Fairborn, OH 45324, (937) 208-6810; wright statephysicians.org PEDIATRICS
CHILDREN’S HEALTH CLINIC AT DAYTON CHILDREN’S 730-C Valley St., Dayton, OH 45404, (937) 641-3500, childrensdayton.org
OHIO PEDIATRICS 7200 Poe Ave., Suite 201, Dayton, OH 45414, (937) 236-5396; 1775 Delco Park Dr., Kettering, OH 45420, (937) 299-2339; ohiopedi atrics.com
PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES OF DAYTON 5450 Far Hills Ave., Suite 110, Kettering, OH 45429, (937) 436-2866; 9000 N. Main St., Suite 332, Dayton, OH 45414, (937) 832-7337; 3140 Dayton Xenia Rd., Beavercreek, OH 45432, (937) 320-1950; pediatric associatesofdayton.com
PRIMED PEDIATRICS 5250 Far Hills Ave., Kettering, OH 45429, (937) 433-7991; 6520 Acro Ct., Centerville, OH 45459, (937) 291-6850; other area locations; primed physicians.com
(513) 893-4107, tcfwh.com The Center for Women’s Health provides top health services for women by meeting individual physical, mental, and spiritual needs.
peds.com Muddy Creek Pediatrics provides top-notch pediatric care in a personal and comfortable setting.
GYNECOLOGIC AND OBSTETRIC CONSULTANTS OF GREATER CINCINNATI
(513) 245-4224, nourishyourself.com Nourish is a personal cooking service helping families serve home-cooked and healthy meals that are prepared at the family’s home.
2123 Auburn Ave., Suite 528, Cincinnati, OH 45219, (513) 792-5800; 10506 Montgomery Rd., Suite 204, Cincinnati, OH 45242, (513) 792-5810; goc.md Physicians at GOC of Greater Cincinnati provide personalized healthcare to women with 24-hour service.
HEALTHSOURCE OF OHIO 5400 DuPont Circle, Suite A, Milford, OH 45150, (513) 576-7700, healthsourceofohio. com HealthSource of Ohio offers medical, dental, behavioral health, and pharmacy services to people in Southwest Ohio.
MONTGOMERY PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 9505 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45242, (513) 891-0660, montgomery pediatricdentistry.com Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry offers first-rate dental care to children in Cincinnati and Montgomery, along with the surrounding area.
MUDDY CREEK PEDIATRICS 6400 Thornberry Ct., Suite 610, Mason, OH 45040, (513) 398-3900, muddycreek
NOURISH
NURTURE BIRTH nurturebirth.com Nurture Birth offers doula services and childbirth education classes in Cincinnati, Dayton, and Northern Kentucky.
REPRODUCTIVE SOLUTIONS (513) 325-0347, reproductivesolutionsllc. com Reproductive Solutions helps prospective parents find gestational carriers.
SUBURBAN PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES 9600 Children’s Dr., Building D, Suite 100, Mason, OH 45040, (513) 336-6700; 7335 Yankee Rd., Liberty Township, OH 45044, (513) 336-6700; 752 Waycross Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45240, (513) 336-6700; suburban pediatrics.org Through comprehensive care, Suburban Pediatric Associates offers pediatric services to infants, children, and adolescents.
Seeking Gestational Carriers Ages 21-36 History of successful and uncomplicated pregnancies Appropriate height to weight ratio Flexible schedule Reliable transportation Agree to undergo criminal background check Complete psychological screening and testing
(513) 325-0347 reproductivesolutionsllc.com
THE A TO Z GUIDE
PHOTOGRAPHY Hire a pro to capture those timeless first photos.
BD PHOTOGRAPHY (513) 349-7140, iwantbd photography.com Session length: Varies Specializes in: Love Experience, sessions for tired parents looking to reconnect Cost: Starting at $400 for allinclusive package, including CD
BEN ELSASS PHOTOGRAPHY (773) 570-0457, benelsass photography.com Session length: 90 minutes Cost: Packages start at $200 for family sessions
BRITTANY BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY brittanybrownphoto.com Session length: 1 hour Specializes in: Natural and strobe light photography Cost: Packages start at $230 for newborn session; first-year session packages also available
CARRIE LYNNE PHOTOGRAPHY Studio in Newtown, carrie lynnephotography.com Session length: Mini sessions, 20–30 minutes; full
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sessions, 1 hour; newborn sessions, 2–4 hours Cost: Packages start at $250 (for mini sessions) and up to $650 for digital files
CHILDREN’S GARDEN PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO 8809-B Cincinnati-Dayton Rd., West Chester, (513) 759-5200, child rensgardenphoto.com Session length: Varies Specializes in: More than 20 years of professional experience; full-service studio with a variety of props, backgrounds, and floor-toceiling windows; studio situated on one acre of beautiful scenery with dozens of sets Cost: Packages start at $125 for children’s sessions, $165 for newborn and maternity sessions, $375 for first-year plan sessions
DRAGONFLY STUDIOS PHOTOGRAPHY dragonflystudiosphoto g ra p h y.c o m Session length: Varies Specializes in: Bump to Birthday packages; newborns and children under 2 can be photographed in home stu-
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dio Cost: Packages start at $125 for full sessions, $250 for digital collections (with print release)
ESSENZA STUDIO AND GALLERY 746 St. Rt. 28, Milford, (513) 831-5351, essenzastudio. com Session length: Varies Specializes in: In-studio children and family Cost: Packages start at $350
HEZLEP PHOTOGRAPHY (513) 528-3778, hezlep photography.com Session length: Varies Specializes in: Natural light; photojournalistic-styled photography; also offers professional studio lighting Cost: Packages start at $100 for Newborn Essentials sessions; Milestone Baby plan starts at $575 and includes a full family session during the newborn session; full family sessions start at $150
JEN MOORE PHOTOGRAPHY (513) 580-4536, jenmoore photography.com Session length: Varies Specializes
in: Home births and hospital births; on-location and in-home portrait sessions Cost: Starting at $599 for newborn package, $499 for family and child package
JUST KIDS PHOTOGRAPHY 6464 Cincinnati-Dayton Rd., Liberty Township, (513) 847-4417, justkids photography.com Session length: Varies Specializes in: Families, focusing on maternity, newborn, and young children Cost: Starting at $89 for print, $100 for digital
KELLY MICHELLE PHOTOGRAPHY 625 Main St., Covington, (859) 630-3377, kelly michellephotography.com Session length: Varies Cost: Starting at $100 for portrait sessions; packages from $295 to $995
KENDALL ROUDEBUSH PHOTOGRAPHY (513) 306-5865, kroude bushphotography.com Session length: Varies Specializes in: Natural
Due August 2015. IN PART NER SHIP W I T H
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light photography Cost: Starting at $100 for on-location session with up to four people
LAURA ELAINE PHOTOGRAPHY (513) 307-6594, lauraelaine photography.com Session length: Up to 3 hours Cost: Packages start at $375 for newborn session; DVD and print release included with all packages
LBV BABY BOUTIQUE PORTRAITS 4925 Hanley Rd., White Oak , (513) 257-5244, lbvbaby.com Session length: Varies Specializes in: Maternity, newborn, and baby photography through the first year Cost: Packages start at $350
LOFT 3 PHOTOGRAPHY (513) 739-8811, loft3 photography.com Session length: 90 minutes Specializes in: Natural light photography Cost: Starting at $450 for portrait sessions, including USB with enhanced images
Watch your performer grow leaps and bounds at The Studio for Dance.
Excellence in Dance For over 30 years!
BALLET TAP JAZZ CLOGGING
Ages 3 to Adult
The Studio for Dance 10831 Millington Court, Blue Ash, Ohio 45242 www.TheStudioForDanceCincinnati.com
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Like us on facebook! (513) 984-3311
LOVE IN REAL LIFE
loveinreallife.com Session length: 1–2 hours (longer for birth and newborn sessions) Cost: Packages start at $350 for Family Life photography sessions, $400 for birth photography sessions
MARK GARBER PHOTOGRAPHY Suite B, 405 N. Main St., Springboro, (937) 7488445, markgarber.com Session length: Varies Cost: Packages start at $350 for children’s portrait sessions
MISCHIEF AND LAUGHS Studio In Springboro, (513) 300-7138, mischiefand l a u g h s .c o m Session length: Varies; family sessions average 1 hour Specializes in: Newborn, child, and family photography Cost: Packages start at $400; $100 session fees
MOMENTS PHOTOGRAPHY momentsfamilyphotogra phy.com Session length: 1
hour Cost: Packages start at $375
NIXON PHOTOGRAPHY 31 Endress St., Germantown, (937) 477-1576, nixon photography.com Session length: Varies Cost: Packages start at $245 for newborn session; à la carte and digital pricing also available
SHELBY STREET PHOTOGRAPHY 15 W. Pike St., Covington, (859) 907-4343, shelby streetphotography.com Session length: 2–4 hours Cost: Packages start at $249 for newborn sessions
SNICKERDOODLES PHOTOGRAPHY (513) 919-6239, snicker doodlesphoto.com Session length: Varies Cost: Packages start at $225 for on-location session with families of five or less; prints 8x10 or larger begin at $50; packages, which include digital images on a CD and an album, start at $1,200
SONJA B. PHOTOGRAPHY 7409 Ivy Hills Pl., Newtown, (513) 300-9578, sonjabphotography.com Session length: 1–2 hours Specializes in: Family photography Cost: Starting at $350 for session, including 30-plus images on USB with copyrights
(937) 241-8714, sweet bloomphotography.com Session length: Varies Specializes in: Newborn photography; also offers maternity, baby, birthday, and cake smash sessions Cost: Starting at $275 and including digital images
SWEET THINGS PHOTOGRAPHY
STUDIO N PHOTOGRAPHY 3028 Harrison Ave., Westwood, (513) 245-1097, studionphotography.com Session length: 1–2 hours Specializes in: Specialty products including heirloom albums, custom cards and announcements, and custom-designed wall art Cost: Starting at $175 for creative session with styling and consultation, in-person viewing and ordering session, and a custom wall art creation; à la carte prints and products start at $50; print collections start at $475
SWEET BLOOM PHOTOGRAPHY 21 S. Main St., Waynesville,
sweetthingsphotos.com Session length: 30–90 minutes Specializes in: Lifestyle maternity, newborn, baby, children, and family portraits; full printing rights given with every session Cost: Starting at $100 for mini sessions, $175 for full sessions
TWINKLE STARS PHOTOGRAPHY twinklestarsphotography. com Session length: Family sessions average 1 hour; newborn sessions average 2–3 hours; 20-minute mini sessions available Cost: Starting at $210 for newborn sessions with CD, $175 for family sessions with CD
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THE A TO Z GUIDE
PARTY PLACES Want to plan the perfect birthday party? Here’s a list of a handful of spots around the region that can make your kid’s birthday dreams come true.
BEE ACTIVE ADVENTURE ZONE 1050 Cincinnati Mills Dr., Forest Park, (513) 563-2600, beeactive.biz Bounce and play on Bee Active’s nine giant inflatables and in the gymnastics play center. Capacity: Maximum 20 guests Cost: $150–$200
BLUE MANATEE CHILDREN’S BOOKSTORE 3054 Madison Rd., Oakley, (513) 731-2665, bluemana teebooks.com Kids enjoy readings and games arranged by an art educator. Capacity: Maximum 12 guests Cost: $190/6 children, $15 each additional child
THE BONBONERIE 2030 Madison Rd., O’Bryonville, (513) 321-3399, bonbonerie.com Have a tea party with pinkies out, sip tea, and have a girly-fun
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time. Capacity: Maximum 35 guests Cost: $25/adult, $18/child
BOONSHOFT MUSEUM 2600 DeWeese Pkwy., Dayton, Ohio, (937) 2757431, boonshoftmuseum. org Boonshoft allows you to enter the world of discovery and release your inner scientist. Capacity: Maximum 24 guests Cost: $165 members, $195 nonmembers/15 children, $10/ additional child
BRAZEE STREET STUDIOS 4426 Brazee St., Oakley, (513) 321-0206, brazee streetstudios.com Calling all artsy and creative kids: you can enjoy a birthday filled with glass-fusing and art projects. Capacity: Maximum 16 guests Cost: $300/10 children, $30 each additional child
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CINCINNATI MUSEUM CENTER 1301 Western Ave., Queensgate, (513) 287-7000, cincy museum.org It’s one of the top ranked children’s museums in the United States. Climb, crawl, and interact within the museum’s grocery store, post office, and veterinary clinic. Capacity: Maximum 25 guests Cost: $200 members, $225 nonmembers
CINCINNATI NATURE CENTER 4949 Tealtown Rd., Milford, (513) 831-1711, cincy nature.org Take in the nature at the Nature Center; walk the trails and play in the play scape. Capacity: Maximum 15 guests Cost: $225–$250
CINCINNATI PARKS (513) 321-6070, cincinnati parks.com/explore-nature A naturalist brings fossils
and games to explore nature at one of the six nature centers of your choice. Capacity: No limit Cost: $125/10 children, $10/additional child
CINCINNATI REDS HALL OF FAME 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, downtown, (513) 7657923, reds.com Celebrate in the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. Tour the museum, chow down on pizza, and even stay for a game. Capacity: Please call Cost: $225–$325/10 children and 2 adults, $12–$20 each additional guest
CINCINNATI ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDEN 3400 Vine St., Clifton, (513) 559-7767, cincinnati zoo.org Our beloved zoo has more than 500 animal species, and party guests get a visit from two animal ambassadors. Capacity:
THE A TO Z GUIDE
Maximum 50 guests Cost: $250 members, $275 nonmembers; $10 admission for nonmembers
COCO KEY WATER RESORT 11320 Chester Rd., Sharonville, (513) 771-2080, cocokeycincinnati.com Splash around in the resort’s waterpark and score big in the arcade. Capacity: Maximum 23 guests Cost: $199–$699
CUPCAKE CRAZY 7458 Montgomery Rd., Kenwood, (513) 984-1100, cupcakecrazyincincinnati. com Kids can get into the kitchen, baking cookies, cakes, and more at Cupcake Crazy. Capacity: Maximum 14 guests Cost: $300/10 guests, $15 each additional guest
DRAKE PLANETARIUM 2060 Sherman Ave., Norwood, (513) 396-5578, drakeplanetarium.org Get creative by connecting and building in Drake’s Lego lab. Capacity: Maximum 25 guests Cost: $275/12
COME PARTY WITH
PARTY SU PPLY B O UTIQ UE
Garden Montessori School 1318 Nagel Road Cincinnati, Ohio 45255 (513) 474-4933
Check out our paper straws, favor bags, plates, napkins, cups, 36 inch balloons, custom tassel garlands, gender reveal balloons & more!
Preschool, Kindergarten and Full Day Care Ages 3-6 Open 7 a.m.–6 p.m.
www.celebratebykate.com
Now enrolling for fall 2014! Garden Montessori is Where Young Minds Grow!
513.271.0204 • 7004 Center Street in Madeira Monday–Friday 9–5 • Saturday 10–4 Follow us! @celebratebykate
Gardenmontessorischool.com Celebrating over 40 yrs in Anderson Twp
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children, $14 each additional child
ENTERTRAINMENT JUNCTION 7379 Squire Ct., West Chester, (513) 898-8000, entertrainmentjunction. com Trek through the world’s largest indoor model train display, oh and ah at the model trains, and run through the A-MAZ-N Funhouse. C apacity: Maximum 50 guests Cost: $149–$699
FIRE MUSEUM OF GREATER CINCINNATI 315 W. Court Suite 1, downtown, (513) 621-5553, cincy firemuseum.com Create an adventure through the museum’s exhibits and safe house, learn fire safety tips, and explore firefighting history. Capacity: Maximum 40 guests Cost: $150
GREAT PARKS OF HAMILTON COUNTY (513) 521-7275, greatparks. org Hamilton County has various parks, among them Parky’s Farm and Sharon Woods, that can play host to
a party. Enjoy the activities each park has to offer. Capacity: Varies Cost: Varies
KIDS FIRST SPORTS CENTER 7900 E. Kemper Rd. (513) 489-7575, kidsfirstsports. com Choose from a variety of party packages: swim, gym, or backyard. Have fun splashing, running, and playing at this facility, which is also home to the Hubbard Family Swim School. Capacity: Maximum 12 guests Cost: $239–$349
LASER WEB DAYTON
ium are endless. Guests enjoy the numerous aquatic exhibits and can head over to a party experience at GameWorks at Newport on the Levee. Capacity: Maximum 25 guests Cost: $24.74–$28.49/child
POGO PLAY 10870 Kenwood Rd., Blue Ash, (513) 432-5593, gopo goplay.com Run, jump, and play around in Pogo Play’s giant playground. Parties include private time in the inflatable rooms. Capacity: Maximum 20 guests Cost: $265–$430
533 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd., Dayton, Ohio, (937) 435-2737, funattheweb.com Rack up points in the arcade or play laser tag. Also has a location in West Chester, The Web Extreme Entertainment. Capacity: 30 Cost: $179– $239
PUMP IT UP
NEWPORT AQUARIUM
SKY ZONE
One Aquarium Way, Newport, (859) 261-3300, new portaquarium.com The adventures at the aquar-
1 174 5 Co m m o n s D r. , Springdale, (513) 671-1333, skyzone.com Bounce off the walls—literally!—in Sky-
7724 Service Center Dr., West Chester, (513) 8297867, pumpitupparty.com Jump around in two rooms filled with massive inflatables, climb a rock wall and play ball. Capacity: Maximum 25 guests Cost: $199–$479
zone’s endless trampoline arena. Capacity: 35 Cost: $18–$20/child
SUN ROCK FARMS 103 Gibson Ln., Wilder, (859) 781-5502, sunrock farm.org Milk goats, gather eggs, and visit with Sunrock Farms’ many animals. Capacity: Maximum 20 guests Cost: $10 each child
TOTTER’S OTTERVILLE 4314 Boron Dr., Covington, (859) 491-1441, totters otterville.com At Totter’s, kids can pretend grocery shop, dig in a construction zone, and put on a puppet show. Capacity: Maximum 30 guests Cost: $12.99– $14.99/child
WEST CHESTER ACADEMY OF MUSIC 8374 Princeton-Glendale Rd. Suite 5, West Chester, (513) 829-2345, musicless onsinwestchesterohio.com Your group can sing, dance, and play instruments at West Chester Academy’s musical birthday parties. Capacity: Maximum 20 guests Cost: $150
Cupcakes, C pca es, C Cake ake P Pops, ps, C Cakes akes for or Al All Occasions, C O Cookies, k C Cake k P Pushh U Ups, Cupcake in a Jar and more...
Baby Gender Reveal Cakes • Baby Showers • Birthdays 'LVMWXIRMRK 'SR½VQEXMSRW Cupcake Decorating Birthday Parties for all ages! 7458 Montgomery Rd 513-984-1100 Mon–Fri 10:30-6:30 Sat: 9:00-4:00 www.cupcakecrazyincincinnati.com
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THE LAST LAUGH
Yes, I have a favorite.
MOMMY CONFESSIONS
MOMS TELL ALL
In the evening my son will ask if he can have some candy. I tell him no, that we don’t eat candy when it’s almost time for bed. I then proceed to shut myself in the pantry where he can’t find me and devour a chocolate bar.
I regularly take money out of my 5-year-old’s piggy bank. The iPad is the best babysitter I’ve ever found. If it weren’t for that, I’d never get a shower in the morning or dinner on the table at night!
I let my toddler chew on my husband’s toothbrush. And then put it back.
I’m afraid to get my camera fixed because my 6-year-old son took about 30 pictures of his man parts right before he broke it. I’d rather have a broken camera than go to jail, I guess.
My son was misbehaving so I put him in time out, then walked back upstairs to clean my bathroom. I remembered he was in time out about an hour later, when I went looking for him because he was being so quiet. He was still sitting in the hardwood “time out chair” in the dining room… fast asleep.
I know it’s been too long since
I bathed my kids when I realize the bath toys are still neatly put away from when the cleaning lady came.
Two weeks ago. Our last house backed up to a park with a playground. I would bring the monitor during morning nap time, lock the doors, and let the other two get their energy out while I kept one eye on the house and one on the playground. One day my toddler asked, “Who is watching Jane?” I said, “Jesus.” That seemed to suffice.
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When it’s been a really long day and my toddler wants me to read the longest book on his bookshelf, I skip pages. Sometimes two or three at a time. He doesn’t seem to notice.
We deliver more than just babies. That’s because we’re here for you every step of the way, from prenatal planning to delivery and beyond. At TriHealth, our goal is to partner with you so we understand your preferences for a happy and safe delivery. Maybe that’s why we deliver more babies than any other health care system in Greater Cincinnati.
Bethesda North Hospital
Our skilled ob/gyn physicians, award-winning nurses, midwives and breastfeeding experts, along with maternity and parenting classes and birthing options, offer each family the opportunity to create a personalized birthing experience just right for them. It’s a promise we deliver. To learn more, visit TriHealth.com.
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