Cincinnati Family magazine February 2020 by Day Communications/DayCom Media

SUMMER CAMP ADVENTURE FAIR 2020

SATURDAY, FEB. 15 AT BLUE ASH RECREATION CENTER — DETAILS INSIDE FEBRUARY 2020

CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM

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PUBLISHER Stewart Day EDITOR IN CHIEF Susan Swindell Day EDITOR Amanda Hayward THINGS TO DO/ ASSOCIATE EDITOR Amanda Ciani GRAPHIC DESIGN DayCom Associates PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Tim Henard ACCOUNT MANAGERS Theresa Cicchinelli Kathi Listo DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jonathan McCormack

Subscribe online to our Newsletter for Rewards & Join us on Facebook for Giveaways & more! THIS PUBLICATION AUDITED BY

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pg. 17 Happy campers pause for a pic at Cincinnati Nature Center.

IN EACH ISSUE FEATURES 4

editor's note

Feedback

VERIFICATION

C O U N C I L CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is published monthly by DAYCOM MEDIA, INC. Although every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of published material, DAYCOM MEDIA cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. Editorial and business offices are located at 10945 Reed Hartman Hwy., Ste 323, Cincinnati, OH 45242. The phone number is 513-252-0077; fax is 513-252-0081. E-mail to: susan@ daycommedia.com. CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is copyright © 2020 by DayCom Media, Inc., a member of The Family Magazine Syndicate. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

The secret to parenting.

We are giving away two fabulous summer camp experiences for kids! Check it out!

cincinnati news

14 ADOPTING

A CHILD ... OR EVEN MORE THAN ONE

Maple syrup events happening around town; our Summner Camp Adventure Fair 2020 and more.

Many children ages 9 and older are in need of a forever home here in Cincinnati. Will you open your heart?

kids' health

17 FOR THE LOVE

Some kids ﬂoss, others don't. Guess which kids are less prone to cavities?

OF SUMMER CAMPS

Discover what's new for your kids at area camps this summer and make your game plan!

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

THINGS TO DO!

February is deﬁnitely not a blah month! Check out all that's going on in our DOUBLE-AWARDWINNING calendar and ﬁnd our round up of shows on page 32.

PLAN AHEAD Find "must preregister" events and activities online.

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February 2020

the little things BY AMANDA HAYWARD

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f youʼre reading this, you may be anxious about hearing the latest research on the secret to parenting. So here it is: the secret sauce to raising the best listeners; the most well-behaved; the extremely polite; and exquisitely intelligent little individuals. There is none. Nope, no secret. No special way. No perfect schedule. No onpoint bed routine. Nothin.ʼ Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but no matter what new studies discover, no matter what award-winning mom blog youʼve been following lately, the secret to golden parenting doesnʼt really exist. Really, the secret is you. No matter how you do you. I broke some “rules” with my kids this past weekend. My oldestʼs best friend came over for a sleepover party that ended up in an epic nerf gun war and some late night ice cream. I popped a lot of popcorn. The following night? My kids plopped right into my bed and we stayed up late watching Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2. Needless to say, we had a lot of fun. Honestly, never in a million light years would I ever have thought I would “let go” and throw the good olʼ “parenting rule book” out the window. I was the mom with a first baby who followed a specific nap and bedtime routine. I crafted up my own baby food concoctions. I prepared home-cooked meals all the time, and I was notorious at scheduling a walk and belly time at just about the same time, every day. Fast forward eight years and one extra kid later, and Iʼm lucky if I get to the grocery store in time before the refrigerator looks like a hopeless waste land. Itʼs tough, but the bottom line is: I am doing my best and re-writing the rule book. My way seems to be working out well. No matter how you do it, your way is the best way and thatʼs all there is to it. Maybe “Bobby Know It All” did it “right” over the weekend while you lounged around with the kids and played board games because you were just plain worn out. But there are no rules to parenting. We do our best, and do it the right way which is your way. End of story. My favorite part of Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2 is when two characters go out on a limb and adopt more than a handful of cute, destructive car racers. In the end, the adorable little racers are polite, tame and somehow disciplined. Someone asks the parents, “How did you do it?” They reply, “Well first …” then you hear nothing. The cars mute out the answer. I laughed like a kid, because the message called out to my point: there is no secret to parenting.

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“Where Every Family Matters.”

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ON THE COVER

FEEDBACK Feedback is edited for clarity.

Join us for giveaways, local reader posts, parenting news and lots more.

Join us on Facebook for giveaways and parenting banter in addition to insightful conversations! Such as:

Are your mornings rough? What do you struggle with the most? “Everything — my mornings are like a day in hell. No one wants to get out of bed, and I have to go in several times. Then they scream and yell and act like 2 year olds. They are 10 and 12. No one wants to take their vitamins ... more yelling and screaming ... and all the while I am losing my mind. We barely make it out of the house on time.” Tanya Grenfell “My kids are so slow in the morning, they’d make a snail impatient. I try to use phrases like, “Cheeta speed!” and, “Can we move a little faster?” But usually it’s just constant redirects until we’re running out the door, late, with unbrushed hair.”

Kathryn Vargo

“Getting my preschooler out the door and dropped off without making me feel like a horrible mom ... His words: ‘You just leave me there.’”

Leigh Hoskins

“Getting them to leave the dogs at home. We have two little dogs; one’s a pomeranian and one’s a teacup chihuahua, and my youngest, 4, always picks

A summer camper at YMCA Camp Kern (located in Oregonia, OH) swings safely on the high ropes course.

WIN

A SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCE!

up the dogs and refuses to leave them home. One day we got all the way to school, and I saw my boy talking to his bookbag and I grabbed it — low and behold — there’s our chihuahua! He was so disappointed that he couldn’t take the dog. But he only goes half a day to preschool so he’s only there three hours, then back home.”

Traci Ketterer-Hodge

“Getting my kindergartener to eat breakfast! She doesn’t like eating in the early morning.”

Ashton Burtrum

“This morning at drop off my 4-year-old growled, “How dare you?” I asked her, “How dare I what?” She growled, “How dare you wake me and and bring me to school?!” So yeah, drop off is fun.”

Trisha Hawkins

“We’ve hit the sweet spot of leaving JUST enough time to feel a bit pressed for time (otherwise kids are dressed in Disney princess dresses and refuse to put on school clothes) but not too little that we are actually rushed. It’s taken three years to perfect.”

Nicola Qureshi

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park Summer Camp.

WE’RE GIVING AWAY SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCES! • CINCINNATI PLAYHOUSE IN THE PARK (962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati) — $245 value! Your camper will enjoy a one-week camp and explore fantastical worlds, storybook lands, favorite books and movies, and tons more during Cincy Play’s exciting, engaging summer camps! They will learn about live theatre and develop a sense of ensemble, build strength, confidence and friendships! For ages 3 - 17. Visit cincyplay.com for more information. Expires Aug. 1, 2020. • CINCINNATI MUSEUM CENTER SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCE: “PREMIUM MYSTERIES OF THE MAYA” (1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati) — a $300 value! Explore Maya buildings and inventions; investigate the Maya calendar and belief system! Your camper will explore hands-on Maya arts, crafts and writing – and even play Ulama! They can also visit the featured exhibition “Maya: The Exhibition” to explore artifacts from Guatemala making their U.S. debut! For grades 1 - 5; June 22-26. Visit cincymuseum.org for more information.

ENTER ONLINE UNDER THE “CONTESTS” TAB AT cincinnatifamilymagazine.com.

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February 2020

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“Where Every Family Matters.”

BY AMANDA CIANI

CINCINNATI NEWS

It's Maple Syrup Time!

ebruary sure is a sweet month! Grab the kids and learn all about sticky, sweet maple syrup during one of these ultra-sappy, maple-themed events.

Feb. 17; 11 a.m.

Feb. 1; 1 - 3 p.m.

Celebrate this sweet day with a class for kids about tradition of maple sugaring; watch a movie, take a hike, taste some yummy maple syrup and more! A valid motor vehicle permit is required to enter the park.

BACKYARD MAPLE SYRUP 101 Caldwell Nature Preserve 430 West North Bend Road, Cincinnati, OH 513-321-6070 | explorenature.regfox.com Learn how to live off the land and all about making maple syrup. Donations accepted. Tree tapping spouts available for purchase or or on the website. Feb. 2, 8, 15, 16, 23 & 29 12 - 4 p.m. MAPLE SYRUP MAKING AND GUIDED SAP COLLECTING HIKES IN THE SUGARBUSH Cincinnati Nature Center 4949 Tealtown Road, Cincinnati, OH 513-831-1711 | cincynature.org Experience the whole process of producing liquid gold from maple sap. Included with park admission ($9 adult, $4 children); free for members.

KIDSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; MAPLE DAY AT THE PARK Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve/Ellenwood Nature Barn, 3455 Poole Road, Cincinnati, OH 513-521-7275 | greatparks.org

Feb. 22 & 23; 12 - 4 p.m. MAPLE SUGAR DAYS Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve/Ellenwood Nature Barn, 3455 Poole Road, Cincinnati, OH 513-521-7275 | greatparks.org It's maple sugaring time! Enjoy this celebratory weekend, including delicious tastes, crafts, demonstrations and hikes. A valid motor vehicle permit is required to enter the park. Feb. 23; 1 - 3 p.m. MAPLE TAPPING & TASTING Bowyer Farm 2210 Mason Montgomery Road, Lebanon, OH

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

513-559-7767 | cincinnatizoo.org Join the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden at Bowyer Farm to learn all about maple tapping; there will be hands-on activities, storytelling and of course, tasting of maple syrup. Registration required: $30 non-member, $25 zoo member. Feb. 27; 11 a.m. WEE WONDER ABOUT MAPLE SUGAR Sharon Woods/Sharon Centre 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville, OH 513-521-7275 | greatparks.org Learn all about maple sugar through activities and a story. $7.50 per child, payable at the door; a valid motor vehicle permit is required to enter the park. Feb 27 & 29; 2 - 4 p.m. MAPLE AT GLENWOOD Glenwood Gardens/Garden Loop Trail 10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati, OH 513-771-8733 | greatparks.org Learn the value that maple trees had for Native Americans and early colonists. Watch sap being boiled and taste real maple syrup. A valid motor vehicle permit is required to enter the park.

February 2020 9

local news NEWSY FIT BITS

Come to Summer Camp Adventure Fair 2020!

February is American Heart Month. Keep all the hearts you love healthy by getting some exercise into your lives. Check out these heart-pumping, healthy activities taking place: •

Kids can gain strength and build character, too, with classes at KidStrong; the newest Ohio location is located in Kenwood at 8740 Montgomery Road, STE 105A. At KidStrong, children train their bodies while having tons of fun with peers and following the slogan, "I am strong. I am brave. I can do this." Kids learn about the whole body and mind curriculum that KidStrong developed for 14 month olds through age 8. Learn more by calling 513-906-5555 or visit kidstrong.com/ kenwood.

YMCA Camp Kern

hether your child is sporty, crafty, a computer whiz or natural performer, there is a perfect summer camp for every kid! Join Cincinnati Family magazine on Saturday, February 15 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Blue Ash Recreation Center (4433 Cooper Road) for the 2020 Summer Camp

Adventure Fair!

Covering all-things-summer-camps, attendees will be able to meet with representatives from 50 residential camps in addition to a bounty of local day camps. You will be sure to find a camp that will help your child grow, meet new friends and make memories to last a lifetime. Bring the kids along for face painting, balloon animals and lots of performances and giveaways. Learn more at cincinnatifamilymagazine.com/summer-camp-adventure-fair-2020.

"Adventures Under Glass" Preschool Camp

ave a little one who loves to learn and play? Send him to “Adventures Under Glass” preschool camp! Campers ages 3-and-ahalf to 5 years old can attend this animal-themed series at the Krohn Conservatory and enjoy stories, crafts, meeting animals, playing games and making lots of friends! The camp takes place February 10 & 24 in addition to March 2 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Children must be potty trained. The Krohn is located at 1501 Eden Park Drive in Cincinnati. Call 513-231-8678 or visit explorenature.regfox.com/krohnpreschoolcamp for more information.

10 February 2020

A New KIDSTRONG Opens

• Valentine's

Open Swim at Kids First Sports Center

The kids can get in the swim of things for Valentine's Day by participating in Kids First's Valentine's Day Open Swim. Taking place on Sunday, February 9 from 2:30 - 4:30 p.m., it's going to be a party! The cost is $5 for enrolled swim students and $10 for unenrolled kids. Ages 6 months and younger are free and a parent must get in the water for children 3 and younger. Kids First Sports Center is located at 1900 East Kemper Road. Learn more at kidsfirstsports.com.

Birthday Parties at the Children's Theatre!

he newly remodeled Children's Theater of Cincinnati now offers birthday party packages for kids! Parties include character appearances, a party host, themed decorations, activities and favors. Themes include palace, superhero, galactic hero, broadway, popstar and and more themes are going to be added to help celebrate your children’s birthdays in-style. Learn more by calling 513-569-8080 or visit thechildrenstheatre.com/about/birthday-parties-at-tct.

“Where Every Family Matters.”

Now Registering for

CAMPS!

Music, Acting, Dance, Gymnastics and more!

513.829.2345 • WestChesterAcademy.com 8107 Market Place Drive • West Chester, OH 45069 CINCIN

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WHERE TO GET YOUR BELOVED CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE — TELL YOUR FRIENDS! — Dear Readers,

TOP DISTRIBUTION SPOTS

While Kroger stores has made the nationwide decision to NOT carry free magazines anymore, you can still find the award-winning Cincinnati Family Magazine in HUNDREDS of other locations around town including schools, doctor offices, child cares and more.

•Cincinnati Children’s Hospital •Cincinnati Children’s Museum •Cincinnati Public Libraries

REQUEST DISTRIBUTION! You can ALSO request distribution by emailing Editor Amanda Hayward at amandahayward@daycommedia.com.

The #1Guide for Local Parents

• Cincinnati Museum Center • Dave & Busters (NKY) • Entertrainment Junction • Fresh Thyme Farmer’s Market • Full Throttle Indoor Karting • Joseph Beth Booksellers • Jump & Jack’s • Jungle Jim’s • King Arthur’s Court • Krohn Conservatory • Main Event • NorthKey (NKY) • Sky Zone Trampoline Park • YMCAs

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February 2020 11

kids’ health

DO THE FLOSS! Teach your kids to floss the right way — and we’re not talking about the trendy dance move! BY AMANDA HAYWARD

nce upon a time, flossing teeth didn’t seem so pressing. But local experts say that kids are getting more cavities than they used to. “Fifty percent of children have cavities by kindergarten,” says Kaitlin Jennison, a pediatric dentist at Union Pediatric Dentistry. “This has a lot to do with the amount of sugary beverages, fruit snacks and other processed sugary snacks that kids consume nowadays,” she adds. If juices and sodas are regular drinks in your household, maybe you can encourage a little more H20. Sugary drinks tend to linger between teeth, creating the perfect environment for cavities in those areas. Flossing can help reduce the risk of cavities, Jennison says, so consider it an important tool for your children.

When to Start Flossing As soon as your child’s baby teeth begin to touch, you can begin flossing them. If teeth come in especially crowded, it’s even more important. “Most kids actually get cavities in between the teeth, and the toothbrush doesn’t reach there if the teeth are touching, so that’s why flossing is important,” says Jennison. “Without flossing, it’s like you are only cleaning half of the tooth.” Of course, flossing a 3-year-old’s teeth

12 February 2020

may come with some challenges. If it’s too difficult for your child to sit while you floss, try having him lay back on a flat surface since that will help support his head. If you haven’t flossed for your child before, this may prove difficult at first, but keep at it. It will become easier and easier. Hand-held flossers may prove easier, so be sure to try those. Don’t fret if your child’s gums bleed a little — you’re not doing anything wrong. Most of the time it’s because the gums have a little gingivitis from the lack of flossing. Floss your little one’s teeth daily, and he’ll have healthy gums in no time.

Taking Action Flossing can be challenging for independent, older kids in a hurry as well as tweens and teens who find it annoying. Jennison recommends overseeing your kids until about age 8, and then encouraging them as you go along. You can actually tell by just looking at your child’s teeth if he’s doing it or not. You can make flossing more interesting for kids by choosing animal-shaped or flavored flossers, rewarding them with a sticker chart, or for the older kids, trying a sibling competition to see who flosses most regularly! “Plaque disclosing toothpaste, mouthwash, or tablets can be used periodically to show

“Where Every Family Matters.”

them how much plaque hides in between the teeth,” says Jennison. “As they get into teenage years, you may recommend setting a timer on their phone to remind them to floss,” she continues. Amanda Hayward is editor of this publication and mom of two kids.

INSPIRE YOUNG FLOSSERS • Starting when your kids are little, have them watch you floss so they’ll want to do it, too. • Ask your dentist to show your kids what cavities look like and how bacteria stuck between teeth causes cavities, gum disease and bad breath. • Do a science experiment: Soak eggs in different liquids such as juice, soda, lemonade or vinegar overnight. The next day, observe what these liquids have done to the eggs! • Visit the “Inside the Grin” exhibit at The Duke Energy Children’s Museum at The Cincinnati Museum Center which is dedicated to oral health. Kids can try to “brush away sugar bugs,” and explore the sights and sounds of a dental visit. Learn more at cincymuseum.org/inside-the-grin.

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cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

February 2020

parenting

THINKING ABOUT ADOPTING? Many children ages 9 and older are in need of a home right here in Cincinnati. Do you have what it takes to help? BY NYKETA GAFFNEY

ADOPTION: What You Need to Know About Bringing Home an Older Child ... or Children

14 February 2020

“Where Every Family Matters.”

eciding to become an adoptive parent typically comes with a long, exhaustive and emotional journey. Whether it is derived from a last resort at infertility or in an effort to keep relatives together, there are many reasons families decide to adopt. Yet, accepting a child into your heart and home who is not your own can be overwhelming. There are many considerations to take into account when deciding about adoption such as your capacity for being emotionally available to a young human in need. There are also legal and financial obligations that will bind your commitment. And the truth is, there are thousands of children who need a forever home. That said, there are also many couples (and individuals) who want to have a child in their home. Effectively fusing these needs — successfully matching children with families — is an ongoing, daunting, effort that goes on every day. Becoming an adoptive parent is a very intentional action. Therefore, it is important to know what to expect when choosing to adopt a child.

Legal Process Placing children in the hands of any adult requires that safety be the number one priority. Those who wish to adopt must obtain the services of an adoption agency or adoption lawyer to establish a petition and initiate proceedings (domestically or internationally). The agency becomes the “middleman” in the process, not only working to match children to families, but also assisting in the ongoing maze of legal paperwork and details which can sometimes drag on and on. Education is key for everyone involved. The adoption process requires an in-depth background check, interviews for all family members in the home and home studies completed by social workers and/or an agency representative. Dave Willacker, owner of the entertainment company Cincinnati Circus, adopted six siblings one year ago. His children had been tossed around in foster care for years. “The road is long,” Willacker continues. “You have to take classes, you have to get a home inspection, you have to get a fire inspection; but, there are wonderful people to guide you through the process and the first step is making a phone call,” he says. Once you contact an adoption agency — or Job & Family Services — their task is to guide you through all the adoption steps. The steps aren’t difficult, but there are a lot of them. Willacker says he and his wife started working on their adoption three or four years before it actually happened.

Financial Costs The adoption journey can cost tens of thousands of dollars; upwards of $45K. Attorney fees, court fees, application fees and home preparation and travel expenses are just some of the ways money will be spent. Depending on the agency you work with, costs will vary, so preparation is everything.

Patience, Communication, Love and Selflessness And then there’s the child ... or children. To safely transition an adopted child into a new family requires critical characteristics for the adult(s) to master. Trust and security must be established for the adopted child. These key elements build confidence – the very trait that homeless children tend to lack. Life with a newly adopted child will be a constant “show and prove” in the child’s eyes; new parents have to imagine what the child has been through and the promises which may have been broken by other adults. Love is very important for the good times, as well as the bad. Everything may or may not go so smoothly in the beginning, so loving the adopted children through those changes (putting their needs first) will instill in them what they need to feel worthy which is a sense of belonging. Carol Alexander of Cincinnati was an adopted child and she recalls many ups and downs. A 6O-year-old grandmother today, she sheds insight on the adopted child’s point of view. “It was both rough and easy,” Alexander says. “Rough because I knew I wouldn’t see my mom and dad again. But easy because I had my siblings. There are times where you cry to yourself. But as long as you’re in a loving environment, you’re OK. “I learned how to be strong at a young age,” Alexander continues. She says it was the patience, love and selflessness that her adoptive grandmother demonstrated which gave she and her siblings a solid foundation despite the raw circumstances of their earlier lives.

Emotional Preparation It takes deep introspection before initiating the first steps toward adoption. In some cases, becoming an adoptive parent is sprung on individuals by a family member experiencing hardships. But no matter what, if you are not emotionally equipped to handle a child, it will not be a positive situation. Adoption is a life-altering decision, and it is completely appropriate to work through any internal conflicts you may feel before agreeing to it.

Learn Each Child Individually Parenting in general, can be tough! Parenting adopted children is that much more challenging with respect to experiences they’ve had outside

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

of your guidance. There is a lot to unpack as you learn personalities and behavioral triggers. Every child is different, and though siblings may have gone through difficult experiences together, those experiences may impact siblings differently. As the adoptive parent of siblings, you must do your due diligence to provide each of them with what they need (a little space at first, extra attention, extra hugs, positive reinforcements, etc.) to overcome any past trauma, sadness or doubts about the future.

Seek Therapy Therapy is a great go-to. According to the American Psychological Association, “Therapy sessions deliver evidence-based, child-coping strategies and positive parenting approaches that are tailored to account for a child’s past history.” It’s good to get help. The goal is to become a healthy and happy family by maintaining a successful adoption. Therapy can alleviate the stress and anxiety in the household.

Lead With Love As parents, all we can do is our best. Our best is our love. Janet Jones Bell, former educator with Cincinnati Public Schools, adopted two nieces. “The advice I have for others is if it concerns family members and you are able to take care of them so that they stay within the family – do it!” Bell says. As long as you operate from the heart, great things will prevail for the family. What love looks like is giving children a hopeful future and the benefits of a stable home where it may have been unimaginable. “For those who choose to adopt kids who are not from within your biological family, be sure to learn all there is to know about the child and how to prepare for any issues they may have. Kids need stability, understanding, guidance and unconditional love,” she continues. According to available statistics, more than 2,600 children in Ohio are waiting to be adopted; more than 1,000 of them are teenagers and in Kentucky, there are more than 8,000 children in and out of home care with an average age of 9.7 years. For both Ohio and Kentucky, the fosterto-adoption route is the “speediest” kind of adoption, with an average of a 6-month approval process. Aside from kindship programs, there is an average two to seven years spent in the adoption cycle. Adoptions change lives, and in many instances, save lives! “It’s all worth it in the end,” says Willacker. If it is on your heart to make a difference, there are incredible resources available to help you become a hero to someone who needs you today. Nyketa Gaffney is an educator and a freelance writer.

February 2020 15

BEST ART CAMPS IN THE CITY! Pottery wheel, Drawing, Painting, Comic Book, Clay & Specialty Subjects (Think Unicorn!)

New and exciting camps each week! Ages 6 and up Before and after care available

513.406.4009

theartworkshopinc.net

SEE US AT

CAMP FAIR

Your First Class is FREE!

Enrolling for Classes, Birthday Parties, and Summer Camp! Programs for Children of 4 months to 12 years.

Text: 513-466-1479 Call: 513-204-1400

thelittlegym.com/masonoh 8201 Arbor Square Dr., Mason

www.artacademy.edu/camp

SEE US AT

CAMP FAIR

16 February 2020

“Where Every Family Matters.”

planning ahead

BY AMANDA HAYWARD

FOR THE

Right now is the time to sign your kids up for camp. We have the scoop on what’s new with some of the best camps around, so let’s get started.

LOVE of SUMMER

CAMPS!

The Wizard of Oz and The Little Mermaid. Dancers will also partake in engaging story times, craft activities, and will even put on a performance, too! June 1 5, June 8 - 12 and July 27 – 31; for ages 4 - 8.

POSITIVE CHESS CHESS PLUS SUMMER CAMP 6388 Santa Anita Court, West Chester Township, OH 513-620-6207 positivechess.com

YMCA Camp Kern THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI SPRING BREAK CAMP, SUMMER CAMP AND ACADEMY LIVE! 4015 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati, OH 513-569-8080; thechildrenstheatre.com

TCT has some new, exciting Spring Break Camps under their belt! You’re little performers can take the stage during TCT’s Annie JR. April Spring Break Performance Camp for ages 6 - 10; and ages 11-16! Kids can learn to perform their very own mini-show of Annie Jr. - from singing, to dancing and acting, they will be directed by professional TCT teaching artists as

they strengthen their arts and improv skills all while meeting new friends and having fun! Parents get to watch their little stars show what they learned during the “sharecase” performance open to family and friends! This camp is for all levels. TCT Summer Camps vary from Drama to Costume Design and tons more; and Academy LIVE! is presenting two performances for your kids to take the stage, Frozen Jr. and Frozen Kids; before-and-after care is available, too!

CINCINNATI BALLET KIDS DANCE CAMP 1555 Central Pkwy. Cincinnati, OH 513-621-5219; cballet.org

Whether your tiny dancer has been twirling for five years or has never mastered a plié or satué before, Cincinnati Ballet offers dance camps for all levels! The fun, welcoming environment gives your tiny dancer all of the confidence they need to learn new skills while having a blast! This summer, look forward to the “Summer of Dreams” theme, a symatic fairy tale focus, that gracefully ties into some of the ballet’s major programming such as

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What’s so positive about Positive Chess Chess Plus Summer Camps? The low camper to instructor ratio is one thing, giving more attention to each individual camper; and the variety of engaging and education materials is another! Your engineer can learn to assemble mechanical parts, get involved with small chess activities, robotics and more! With a variety of activities throughout the morning and afternoon sessions, they will get exposed to various skills. If you remember two popular programs from last year “Wicked Fun,” and “Active Fitness,” they are now combined into one active program, “Movement.” It will include tons of physical activities, family board games and more! Your kids will also love the engaging incentive through awards and fun surprises after cashing in their hard earned work! For second - eighth grade students.

YMCA CAMP KERN 5291 OH-350 Oregonia, OH 513-932-3756 campkern.org

Kids can get beyond adventurous at Camp Kern! Friendships are the main focus during these weeklong camps as campers participate in all the activities their little heart desires with experienced counselors from all over the world. Each program is designed with specific age groups in mind, so each campers’ interests are met. They are widely known for their fully themed programs, and new this year, campers will head off into a fully immersive Disney-themed, “Neverland.” For the second year, look forward to Camp Kern’s “Extreme Camp,” outtrips in the area with Camp Kern overnight camp included. Interested in scholarship opportunities? They have that, too with all of the help and info you need on their website.

ABRAKADOODLE SUMMER ART CAMPS FOR KIDS Various Locations in Greater Cincinnati 513-297-5655; abrakadoodle.com

From ages 3 - 12, Abrakadoodle offers engaging Summer Art Camps for kids at schools and other community locations. From art lessons to

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February 2020 17

planning ahead

SUMMER CAMPS 2020 music, games and crafts and tons more special activities, your little artist will be exposed to a variety of art! Check out their theme-based camps this summer including: “The Big Abrakadoodle Circus;” “The Museum Mystery Tour;” “Kids on the Runway” and tons more where that came from!

SCHOOL OF ROCK CINCINNATI MUSIC CAMPS 6710 Madison Road Cincinnati, OH 513-586-7625 locations.schoolofrock.com/ cincinnati

Do you wanna rock? School of Rock Cincinnati has rockin’ summer camps for age 7 - 18! Whether your kid wants to learn to play in a band or be a songwriter, these musical camps will teach them the ropes. They offer a wide variety of music camps and workshops that cover it all, and their local music camps are perfect for musicians of any skill level who want to play guitar, bass, drums, keyboard and vocals! New this year, School of Rock is opening up a new school in NKY that will also run summer camps - keep a lookout on their website in March for NKY camps.

CINCINNATI SHAKESPEARE SUMMER CAMPS 1195 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 513-381-2273; cincyshakes.com Downtown Camps take place at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company and next door at the School for Creative and Performing Arts (108 W. Central Parkway Cincinnati, OH).

June and July space summer camps are available, with weeklong summer camps for anybody who wants to learn more about theatre and get up on stage. Popular this year, June 8 - 12, is “Clowning Around” for juniors, (grades first - sixth), perfect for the class clown! Kids will learn

about classic clowning, they will put together scripts and just have goofy, crazy fun! Another camp to look forward to is “Swords and Sorcery,” July 6 - 10 - campers spend a week in Fantasy Theatre Camp, where wizards weave spells, monsters make mayhem and fairies fly through the air. Learn how to make the kind of stage magic that can bring the most fantastical stories to life. Cincy Shakes also offers senior camps for seventh - 12th graders. These include three weeks of camps that go more in depth into Shakespeare’s work. Is your senior not a Shakespeare guru but wants to learn? Shakespeare knowledge is not required, so dive right in! Scholarships are available

online.

MATHNASIUM MATH CAMPS 9525 Kenwood Road, #15 Blue Ash, OH 513-984-1212; mathnasium.com

Are you looking to keep your student engaged during the summer and have fun at the same time? Mathnasium is now enrolling for Summer Sessions! Avoid the summer slide by having them customize a program for your student to learn at the center with their in-house curriculum. Your camper will participate in STEM-based projects, too!

KIDS FIRST SPORTS CENTER CAMP-A-PALOOZA 7900 E Kemper Road Cincinnati, OH 513-489-7575; kidsfirstcamp.com

Camp-a-Palooza, located in Kids First Sports Center, offers a variety of camps grades K through seventh grade! Whether your camper is ready for a half-day camp or full day, they offer a diverse variety of programming. For half day, there is art, music, science, technology and more, plus these engaging, educational programs can be combined with a day camp program to dive a little deeper. For the field trip enthusiast, they offer venture camp programming, too, with four field trips per week. The smaller groups are perfect for a more personable experience.

The Art Workshop Camps

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(photo credit: Amanda Sheehan of Little Tootsies Photography)

Classroom Antics Tech Camps

18 February 2020

School of Rock Cincinnati Camp

“Where Every Family Matters.”

SEE US AT

CAMP FAIR

STEMs For Youth Day Camps Learn 21st Century Skills through fun, creative, hands-on activities! (Grades K-12)

Robotics Drones Fashion Design Virtual Reality Minecraft Studio

Digital Photography Video Game Design Rubik's Cube JavaScript & Python 3D Printing

Learn more at

www.stemsforyouth.org Or contact

info@stemsforyouth.org

School is out. Camps are in.

CINCYNATURECAMP2020

Museum Camps

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

Spend summer outside!

Ages 3–13 • June 1 –August 7

www.CincyNature.org

February 2020 19

SUMMER CAMPS MAYERSON JCC CAMP AT THE J 8485 Ridge Ave. Cincinnati, OH 513-761-7500 mayersonjcc.org

Positive Chess Camp

Experience the best of summer at Camp at the J! Kids can take advantage of anything from swim lessons to archery, to arts and crafts, and way more where that came from! If your kid is looking for a traditional day or specialty camps, they can pursue their interests and learn new skills. Specialty Camps to look forward to this summer include “Dino Digs: Ice Age Mr. Mike” for grades K - third; “Art Camp” for grades 1 - 3; “Theatre Camp” for grades 2 - eighth; and tons more! Head to their website for more information on camps and financial assistance.

TAFT MUSEUM OF ART SUMMER ART DAY CAMP 316 Pike St., Cincinnati, OH 513-241-0343; taftmuseum.org

It’s a great year for kiddos and families to check out the Taft! Their historic house is celebrating its 200th birthday! The Taft Museum of Art offers weeklong camps for first - seventh graders. Campers will learn to make art through painting, sculpting and drawing in small classes taught by experienced teachers. Cincinnati has so much art to explore and experience, so get ready for some fun weekly field trips, too!

THE ART WORKSHOP ART CAMPS GREAT PARKS SUMMER DAY CAMPS 513-521-7275 greatparks.org

Falcon Camp

Explore the outdoors at Great Parks Day Camps! Ages 2 - 17 will get into hands-on activities and loads of educational opportunities. This summer, look forward to nearly two dozen camps with themes ranging from Adventure, Farm, Fishing, Golf, Horse, Nature and Photography! Has your camper ever kayaked or gone horseback riding? Now they can at these adventurous nature camps! Kids will have the opportunity to get their feet wet and learn skills such as team-building, nature-study and more with Great Parks’ experienced team.

(Located at Queen City Clay; 3130 Wasson Road, Cincinnati, OH) 513-406-4009; theartworkshopinc.net

The only pottery wheel camp in the city, these art camps also offer drawing and painting; sculpture; paper mache pets; Princesses and Unicorns; and cartooning and clay; and more! If your little artlover can’t get enough, they offer art enrichment classes, too, for ages 3 and older. Class offerings include pottery wheel, cartooning, and comic book, Mom/ Dad and Me, Preschool, Drawing, teen classes, and new this year is Freestyle, where kids can come in and choose their own project. Did you know that The Art Workshop is the only studio that offers creating your own art out of clay AND glazing it?

CINCINNATI NATURE CENTER CINCY NATURE SUMMER CAMPS 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford, OH 513-831-1711 cincynature.org

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park Camp (photo credit: Mikki Shaffner)

20 February 2020

“Where Every Family Matters.”

This year, Cincinnati Nature is offering four new camps, a total of 19 different camp themes. Including “Trail Blazers,” “Forest Secrets,” “Who’s Up What’s Up” and “Wild Design.” Little campers learn to have a love for nature and get to head out on a new adventure each day! CincyNature Summer camps are weeklong, nature day camps for ages 3 through 13, June through August, at Cincinnati Nature Center’s two sites: Rowe Woods in Milford and Long Branch Farm and Trails in Goshen. Registration opens February 4 at 10 a.m.

CINCINNATI PLAYHOUSE IN THE PARK SUMMER THEATRE CAMP AND PERFORMANCE ACADEMY 962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati, OH 513-421-3888 cincyplay.com

Cincy Play camps are continuing with locations around Cincinnati. The Launch Pad Accessibility program which kicked off last year — designed to integrate students with developmental disabilities into a traditional theatre camp environment — is available for all one-week, full-day camps. Also a huge hit last year were half-day camps for pre-K. Look forward to Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park’s 2020 Summer Theatre Camp and Performance Academy that takes your camper to fantastical worlds, storybook lands, favorite books and movies at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. Locations also in Evendale, Blue Ash, Mason and the West End. Half-day and one-week camps are for ages 3 to 5; for first through 10th graders, there are full-day, one-week camps. Performance Academy camps are for first - 12th graders, this year themes include Disney’s Mary Poppins Jr., Clue: On Stage and Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS; scholarship information is online.

2020 FALCON CAMP 4251 Delta Road SW, Carrollton, OH 800-837-2267; falconcamp.com Falcon Camp’s summer programs for ages 6 - 16 has been providing unforgettable experiences and lifelong learning for years, and new this year, they are bringing even more fun by rebuilding their swim and boat harbor which can only mean, more water activities! Falcon Camp offers two, four, six, or eight week sessions, where campers will live in a cabin and make lifelong friends! Experienced counselors teach your kid new skills and teach them to just have fun! There are more expansions to look forward to in the upcoming years as Falcon Camp works to increase their camp facility resulting in more programming and excitement for campers in the near future.

LIFE TIME FITNESS CAMPS 8310 Wilkens Blvd., Mason, OH 513-234-0660; lifetime.life

Your active kid will love the weekly themes, dress-up days, field trips and even more activities that will help him grow and learn! Activities at Life Time focus on healthy eating and physical activity (swimming, rock climbing, turf sports and more), plus, kids enjoy the community connections, S.T.E.A.M, character development, games and weekly warrior challenges!

CAMP WAVE AT NEWPORT AQUARIUM One Aquarium Way, Newport, KY 859-815-1404 wavefoundation.org

Newport Aquarium is opening their new exhibit “Shipwreck: Realm of the Eels” this spring, which means that campers get to dive in deep to exciting explorations and tons of activities with the new exhibit through “Shipwreck Explorers and

Discoveries of the Deep.” Encounter new animals such as green moray eels and cuttlefish, and expect to experience the wonder of the aquatic world. Camp WAVE is a day camp experience for students in grades K - eight, held at Newport Aquarium.

CLASSROOM ANTICS CINCINNATI SUMMER CAMPS Various locations throughout Cincinnati 800-595-3776 classroomantics.com

Offering 10 unique summer camps throughout Cincinnati, Classroom Antics is also adding Science and Engineering camps this year to expand STEM offerings to younger kids, ages 6 to 9 years old. They offer multiple weeks of exciting STEM-focused summer camps throughout the Cincinnati area for kids and teens ages 7-13, too! Your camper will love half or full-day morning or afternoon camps such as “Lego Bots Camp,” “Game Builders Camp,” “Lego Robotics Camp” and more!

opens February 3 for members and February 10 for non-members.

ART ACADEMY OF CINCINNATI CAMP ART ACADEMY 1212 Jackson St., Cincinnati, OH 513-562-8748 artacademy.edu

Camp Art Academy is where it’s at! They offer six separate one-week camps from June 8 to July 24 for ages 5 - 12, with each camp week offering a unique and exciting theme your camper will get the most out of! Whether you sign your kids up for one or all six weeks, they will have a blast utilizing their skills and learning new ones. Camp themes include “Color Outside the Lines,” “Call of the Wild,” “Once Upon a Time…” and more!

Art Camp at the Taft Museum of Art

YMCA OF GREATER CINCINNATI Various Locations throughout Greater Cincinnati myy.org

CINCINNATI MUSEUM CENTER SPRING AND SUMMER MUSEUM CAMPS 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati, OH 513-287-7000; cincymuseum.org

Museum camps are just plain fun! Campers get to explore science, technology, history and the arts through creative, hands-on activities and games! Their imaginations will travel beyond the classroom with visits from curators, community groups and experts in a variety of fields. And this summer, all campers receive a T-shirt during the first week of camps. Campers can look forward to an afternoon snack and camp outings to some of the best spots in town including Union Terminal, Cincinnati Observatory, Blue Ash Recreation Center, Villa Madonna Academy and Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy. Camp registration

There is so much excitement happening this summer at your favorite YMCA camps! YMCA Camp Ernst is offering new cabins, and families can get in on the process! For a $250+ donation you and your family or friends can buy a brick to be laid near the project - printed with your name and favorite camp memory! The YMCA has locations throughout Cincinnati and NKY and offers full-day camps to partday adventure programs which allow your camper to build a week full of fun and new ventures! Family Weekend Camps, Day Camps, Weekend Camps … the sky is the limit at the Y, so hop on their website.

YMCA of Cincinnati

Cincinnati Shakespeare Summer Camp

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February 2020 21

Your 2020 Guide to Camps, Summer Programs and After-School Activities ARTS

Cincinnati Ballet

Abrakadoodle Summer Art Camps

Multiple locations in Greater Cincinnati 513-297-5655 abrakadoodle.com/oh-greater-cincinnati Abrakadoodle offers summer art camps for kids, as well as special holiday art camps during school breaks. We offer art camps at schools and other community locations. Our art camps include art lessons, music, games and special activities for children ages 3 - 12. Call for locations and dates.

Art Workshop

3130 Wasson Road, Hyde Park 513-406-4009 theartworkshopinc.net Art enrichment for kids ages 3 and up. Pottery wheel, clay, drawing, painting and cartooning. Mom and Me, Freestyle (choose your own project) and teen classes offered weekdays and Saturdays.

ArtsConnect Kids and Teen Classes

9150 Winton Road, Cincinnati 513-522-2108 theartsconnect.us • artsinfo@springfieldtwp.org Kids 7 - 13 yrs. will have a creative and imaginative summer filled with themed art projects. Campers will be empowered to make a difference in their world through art.

Baldwin Music

baldwinmusiceducenter.com • info@baldwinmusiceducenter.com Baldwin Music Education Center offers an outstanding curriculum combining the cognitive, social, emotional and musical concepts every young life needs for ages 6 mos. and up. Group classes are engaging with lots of options, affordable pricing and convenient location.

Camp Art Academy

1212 Jackson Street, Cincinnati 513-562-8748 artacademy.edu/camp • commed@artacademy.edu Art Academy of Cincinnati’s Camp Art Academy offers kids ages 5 - 12 six unique weeks of art camp programs! Balancing technical instruction with freedom of self-expression, Camp Art Academy’s curriculum includes fundamental visual art skill building activities, two and three dimensional hands-on experiences, top-notch guest artists and creative problem solving with lots of fun!

CCM Preparatory

290 CCM Blvd., Cincinnati 513-556-2595 ccm.uc.edu/prep • ccmprep@uc.edu CCM Preparatory provides enjoyable and accessible arts opportunities in music, dance and theatre arts. Our programs educate and inspire students from 3 yrs. - adult.

February 2020

A Paid Advertising Directory

1555 Central Pkwy., Cincinnati 513-562-1111 cballet.org/academy • cbacademy@cballet.org Students ages 4 - 8 will dance their way through the “Summer of Dreams” as they explore favorite ballet stories including The Wizard of Oz, Cinderella and The Little Mermaid.

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

1195 Elm St., Cincinnati 513-381-2273 cincyshakes.com Join Cincinnati Shakespeare Company downtown for Theatre Summer Camp! We offer unique and fun programs for beginner to advanced thespians. Learn more online.

Cincinnati Art Museum Summer Camp

953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati 513-721-2787 cincinnatiartmuseum.org/summercamp • camsummercamp@cincyart.org The Cincinnati Art Museum is the place for fun and creativity in the summer. Jump into art with eight weeks of exciting art projects, gallery games, and more! Explore a different theme each week with activities taught by skilled educators and museum staff. Designed for children ages 6 - 12. Convenient before- and after-care available. Camps run Jun. 8 - Aug. 7. Registration begins Feb. 1 at 10 a.m.

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park Summer Theatre Camp and Performance Academy

962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati 513-421-3888 cincyplay.com Explore fantastical worlds, storybook lands, favorite books and movies, and so much more. Half-day, full-day and multi-week performance academy camps available. Camps held at the Playhouse plus locations in Evendale, Blue Ash, Mason and the West End. Also available, the Launch Pad Accessibility Program integrates students with developmental disabilities. 2020 Performance Academy offerings include Disney’s Mary Poppins Jr., Clue: On Stage and Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS.

The Mad Potter Madeira

7754 Camargo Road, Madeira 513-561-1888 madpottercincinnati.com Pottery painting, parties, and special events. Choose a piece, paint it, and pick it up in a week. Special events include Kidz Nite and Ladies Nite. Summer camp options to be announced soon!

Mason Dance Center

600-B Reading Road, Mason 513-398-0353 masondance.com Mason Dance Center provides an opportunity for anyone ages 3 - adult to discover the joys of dance. Ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, modern, pre-professional ballet, pre-dance combos, adult classes. We offer summer and mini-camps!

“Where Every Family Matters.”

School of Rock

cincinnati.schoolofrock.com 513-586-7625 nky.schoolofrock.com 859-999-7625 Does your son or daughter want to play in a rock band? Ages 7 - 18 will find their tribe, make music and have fun! No experience needed and every skill level welcome – including beginners!

Star Glazers

starglazers.com 513-474-6364 Paint pottery at your location. Pottery experts will bring all the supplies and offer booklets and ideas for your masterpiece. Pricing includes the cost of supplies, glazing and firing. No mess!

Summer Circus Arts Camps presented by My Nose Turns Red Youth Circus

Evendale Cultural Arts Center, 10500 Reading Road, Evendale 859-581-7100 mynoseturnsred.org • info@mynoseturnsred.org Stretch your child’s creative muscle. For ages 4 - 6 yrs. and 7 - 18 yrs. Skills for ages 7 - 18 includes gym (German) wheel, aerial silks, unicycle, Diabolo, physical comedy, and more. Camps for ages 4 - 6 include circus games and activities just right for their age.

West Chester Academy Music, Dance, Gymnastics

8107 Market Place Drive, West Chester 513-829-2345 westchesteracademy.com From a child’s very first lesson to the experienced adult, West Chester Academy has something for everyone in music, dance, and gymnastics. Located in West Chester, we specialize in beginners of all ages and offer training through pre-professional levels. We have camps for all ages.

EDUCATION/ENRICHMENT

Center for Integrative Natural Sciences and Mathematics, at Northern Kentucky University inside.nku.edu/artsci/centers/cinsam/p12students/summercamps.html Want to see your rising 2nd - 12th graders explore STEM this summer? Check out our camps and academies that include astronomy, LEGO, data science, neuroscience, chemistry, engineering and more! All programs are hosted by NKU faculty and staff with scholarships available for low income students.

Classroom Antics Summer STEAM Camps

Multiple Locations 800-595-3776 classroomantics.com • hello@classroomantics.com Kids ages 7 - 13 choose from Lego™ robotics, stop-motion animation, game design, video production, Minecraft coding and programming. These enrichment classes are sure to ignite your child’s passion for learning! Use code CF10 for $10 off before Apr. 30.

The Stem Lab

1644 E. Kemper Road, Suite #4, Sharonville 513-857-3366 cincystemlab.com Our after school STEAM Club offers scholars a variety of experiences including crafts, hands-on STEAM opportunities, reading support, team challenges, and homework support. Find out more on our website.

SPORTS/FITNESS Buckner Martial Arts

8216 Highland Pointe Drive, West Chester 513-779-2413 bucknermartialarts.com Voted one the best martial arts studios in Cincinnati, we combine defense skills with personal development. Students progress quickly while learning leadership and strong values under the teaching of master instructors. Free uniform with class sign-up.

Life Time Fitness

Children’s Meeting House

927 O’Bannonville Road, Loveland 513-683-4757 cmhschool.com CMH summer camps offer children a great opportunity to extend their learning while having fun on campus. We have a variety of arts, crafts, nature exploration, science activities, and more for children ages 3 - 12. Camp dates are Jun. 15 - 19, Jun. 22 - 26, Jul. 13 - 17, and Jul. 20 - 24. Visit our website for more details.

Cincinnati Country Day School

6905 Given Road, Cincinnati 513-561-7298 countryday.net CCDS is a co-educational, independent, college-preparatory school for students from 18 mos. - grade 12. Located on a beautiful 62-acre campus in Indian Hill. Merit and need-based tuition assistance is available.

Cincinnati Museum Center

1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati 513-287-7000 cincymuseum.org/museum-camps When school is out, Museum Camps are in! Spring and summer Museum Camps take school’s-out energy and turns it into new friends and new interests. Register now on our website.

Summit Country Day School

2161 Grandin Road, Cincinnati 513-871-4700 summitcds.org Founded in 1890, the area’s only Catholic, independent co-ed, college prep school serving students 2 yrs. - grade 12. Programs include a classical academic curriculum with a global perspective and a nationally recognized Character Education program. Celebrating 50 years of academic excellence in Montessori education!

YMCA of Greater Cincinnati

myy.org 513-362-9622 At the Y we ensure that children and teens reach their full potential by helping them grow physically, mentally and socially. Leadership and academic enrichment programs, school age care, preschool, two autism centers, kindergarten toddler care, teen college and career readiness program, youth and government program and day and overnight camps.

NATURE Cincinnati Nature Center

4949 Tealtown Road, Milford 513-831-1711 cincynature.org • registrar@cincynature.org Spend summer outside! CincyNature Camps empower kids, ages 3 - 13, to use their creativity and explore outdoors in a safe, friendly environment. Camps are Jun. - Aug. Learn more on our website.

Great Parks of Hamilton County Summer Day Camps

greatparks.org 513-521-7275 Great Parks Day Camps, offered June through August, provides opportunities for children ages 2 - 17 to explore nature with hands-on activities and educational experiences that will last a lifetime. For details, visit our website.

8310 Wilkens Blvd., Mason 513-770-9751 lifetime.life Weekly themes, dress-up days, field trips and even more activities that help kids grow and learn. Activities focus on healthy eating and physical activity (swimming, rock climbing, turf sports), community connections, S.T.E.A.M, character development, games, and weekly warrior challenges. Ages 4 and up Extended day care available.

The Little Gym of Mason

8201 Arbor Square Drive, Mason 513-204-1400 thelittlegym.com/masonoh For children ages 3 - 10 yrs., Super Quest camps invite kids to exercise their muscles, imaginations, and cooperation skills. You’ll love how easy our flexible scheduling is.

TRADITIONAL Camp at the J – Mayerson JCC

8485 Ridge Road, Cincinnati 513-722-7249 mayersonjcc.org/campatthej At Camp at the J, kids can experience the best of summer. From swim lessons to archery, sports to arts and crafts, kids will create memories and form friendships to last a lifetime. Camp at the J’s inclusive camp offers camp for every kid! Traditional day camp provides all the fun that makes camp a summertime staple, with flexible weekly options to fit your schedule. A wide range of specialty camps, including arts, science, theater, horseback riding, sports and much more.

Falcon Camp

4251 Delta Road SW, Carrollton 800-837-CAMP (2267) falconcamp.com • info@falconcamp.com Widely recognized as Ohio’s premier summer camp since 1959. Beautiful lakefront setting with wide range of activities. Boys and girls ages 6 - 16 choose their own schedule within general framework, separate activities with planned co-ed events. 1:4 staff/ camper ratio. Most of all, it’s a great time! ACA accredited, many references.

Greenacres Summer Camps

8255 Spooky Hollow Road, Cincinnati 513-891-4227 green-acres.org • camps@green-acres.org Summer camps at Greenacres offer fun for every personality, from arts and music, to farming and horseback riding, Greenacres’ camps will fill your child’s summer with joy and memories!

Kids First Sports Center – Camp-A-Palooza

7900 E. Kemper Road, Cincinnati 513-489-7575 kidsfirstsports.com • msmith@kidsfirstsports.com Campers at Kids First get the very best! 108,000 square feet of everything kids love: basketball, karate, gymnastics, dance, cheer, swimming, volleyball, you name it! Field trips every week outside Kids First and in-house entertainment brought in throughout week. Leaders in Training course for teens ages 13 - 15 covering topics like leadership, communication, and group dynamics. Teens can look forward to excursions, service opportunities, and more.

Find these and more on our website: cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY Cincy Stem Lab

CINSAM Summer Camp

cincystemlab.com 513-857-3366 This summer your kids will taste, smell, hear, touch, see, and do STEM! Choose from all Girl STEM camps to Electrifying Engineering at multiple locations throughout Greater Cincinnati. Your kid’s summer will be scientificall. This summer we’ll have camps all over Cincinnati.

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February 2020

Creating Beautiful Smiles Traditional & Specialty Camps

grades K - 10 2020 Camp dates

June 1 - August 14

Come Visit Us in Our NEW Blue Ash Location! Cincinnati Location 4881 Cooper Road 513-821-1625

Specialists in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

Diplomates American Board of Orthodontics

West Chester Location 7242 Tylers Corner Drive 513-777-7060

cincinnatiorthodontics.com THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST OF PARENTING FOR 9 YEARS!

AGES 18 MONTHS TO 18 YEARS. Nature Camps, Art Camps Spo rts Camps & more!

summer 2020 MAYERSONJCC.ORG/CAMPATTHEJ

BECAUSE THE WHOLE JOURNEY MATTERS. CHALLENGE YOURSELF. BE YOURSELF. We are Country Day. We are dedicated to inspiring students, both big and small. From 18 months to 18 years of age, we are uniquely designed to cultivate a passion for learning and independent thinking that prepares students to become exemplary citizens, confident leaders, and the best versions of themselves. Let the journey begin! #WEARECOUNTRYDAY

School year, after care, extended day, lunch, and summer programs available. Apply by February 15 for admission and tuition aid consideration. 6905 Given Road | Cincinnati OH 45243 513-979-0220 | CountryDay.net

February 2020

“Where Every Family Matters.”

FEBRUARY

BY AMANDA CIANI

THINGS TO DO

The love triangle of Marius, Eponine and Cosette is a theme in Les Misérables. The nearly three-hour long show is best suited for ages 10 and older.

Les Misérables National Tour

Find the hearts in our listings during Valentine’s Week for themed activities.

his timeless smash musical about love, courage and hope has been seen worldwide by 70+ million people in 44 countries and 22 languages — now it’s here! A Fifth Third Bank Broadway in Cincinnati production presented by TriHealth, the show runs at the Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut St. in Cincinnati, Feb. 11 - 23. Tickets range from $31 - $135. Get yours at cincinnatiarts.org. cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

Learn About Cincinnati Family’s Summer Camp Adventure Fair 2020 TURN TO PAGE 31 February 2020 25

daily listings

FIND FEBRUARY EVENTS REQUIRING ADVANCE REGISTRATION ONLINE. FREE SHOW AND TELL ON THE FARM: ABC’S Through hands-on activities and a craft, learn about farm life while learning the letters of the alphabet. A snack will be provided. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Road, Trenton; 2 - 3 p.m.; a valid parking permit is required to enter the park; 513867-5835 or yourmetroparks.net.

FREE SUPER BOWL STORY TIME Put on a jersey and head to Joseph-Beth to hear a football story before the big game. Joseph-Beth Booksellers, 2785 Dixie Hwy., Crestview Hills; 2 p.m.; 859-912-7860 or josephbeth.com.

mon 3

FREE STEM CHALLENGE: SNOWMAN TEAMWORK

Will it be an early spring or will there be six more weeks of winter? We’ll find out on Sunday, Feb. 2!

sat 1

CINCINNATI CYCLONES FIGHT CANCER

Join the Cyclones and UC Health to raise Cancer awareness; the Cyclones will wear specialty jerseys that will be auctioned off after the game. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; $20 and up tickets, $18 and up advance tickets; 513-421-4111 or cycloneshockey.com/ game/2020/02/1/cyclones-fightcancer.

FREE FAMILY ARTVENTURES Families can explore the CAM and enjoy hands-on activities at an interactive art cart. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 2 - 3 p.m.; 513721-2787 or cincinnatiartmuseum.org.

FIRE MUSEUM WINTER SCAVENGER HUNT Throughout February, pick up a scavenger card upon entry and search throughout the museum exhibits for important fire-related artifacts; find all 12 items to win a fun, wintry prize. Cincinnati Fire Museum, 315 West Court St., Cincinnati; open Tue - Sat, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $8 adults, $6 ages 7 - 17, free for ages 6 and younger; 513621-5553 or cincyfiremuseum.com.

FREE GROUNDHOG DAY PARTY Will it be an early spring or will there be six more weeks of winter? Learn all about Groundhog’s Day with crafts, games, dress up and shadow art. CCPL Cold Spring Branch, 3920 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring; 2 p.m.; 859-781-6166 or cc-pl.org.

FREE MAKE & TAKE DAY Families can browse great books and pick up a fun bookstore craft to make or take home! Joseph-Beth Booksellers in Crestview Hills, 2785 Dixie Hwy., Crestview Hills; 2 p.m.; 859-912-7860 or josephbeth.com.

FREE MO WILLEMS STORY TIME Head to the library (but don’t let the pigeon drive!) for Mo Willems-themed games, crafts and of course, books. CCPL Fort Thomas/Carrico Branch, 1000 Highland Ave., Newport; 1 p.m.; 859-572-5033 or cc-pl.org.

FREE WINTER SCAVENGER HUNT Bundle up for a scavenger hunt then enjoy a cup of hot cocoa (bring a mug). Sharon Woods/Sharon Centre, 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville; 12 - 3 p.m.; valid motor vehicle permit is required; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org.

sun 2

Groundhog Day & Super Bowl Sunday BLOOM AND GROW AT KROHN CONSERVATORY

Enjoy the beauty of spring, even if it is chilly outside! Step into a colorful, whimsical world inspired by children’s imaginations at the conservatory; Krohn is popping with spring colors from delightful daffodils and terrific tulips during Bloom and Grow. Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; through March 8, Tue - Sun; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $7 adults, $5 ages 5 - 17 years old, free for members and ages 4 and younger; 513-421-4086 or cincinnatiparks.com.

FREE SEASONS IN THE PARK Bundle up for a winter hike to explore the beauty of winter. Join MetroParks for a four-part hiking series during each of the four seasons. Explore what changes from hike to hike. Forest Run MetroPark Timberman Ridge, 1976 Timberman Road, Hamilton; 2-3 p.m. 513-8675835 or your metroparks.net.

Want to build a snowman? Kids can work together in a STEM challenge to build a snowman out of paper. Elmwood Place Branch, 6120 Vine St., Cincinnati; 4 - 5 p.m.; 513-369-4452 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

FREE UNICORN STORY TIME WITH JASON THARP Join Joseph-Beth for a very special afternoon story time with author Jason Tharp, who will be reading his newest book, “It’s Okay to Be a Unicorn.” This beautiful picture book features a unicorn pretending to be a horse – until he learns to embrace his true self. JosephBeth Booksellers, 2692 Madison Road, Cincinnati; 4 p.m.; 513-396-8960 or josephbeth.com.

tue 4

FREE BABY STORY TIME @ BMLP

Bundles of joy can come to Blue Manatee for a special story time just for infants up to 3 years old. Blue Manatee Literacy Project, 3094 Madison Road, Cincinnati; 9:30 - 10 a.m.; $2 suggested donation price; 513-2570774 or bluemanatee.org.

FREE STORY TIME AT KING ARTHUR’S COURT Spend Tuesday mornings hearing fun stories and enjoying free popcorn (bonus: free coffee for the grown-ups). King Arthur’s Court, 3040 Madison Road, Cincinnati; 11 a.m.; 513-531-4600 or kingarthurstoys.com.

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February 2020

“Where Every Family Matters.”

WE BUY & SELL GENTLY USED KIDS STUFF! HOW IT WORKS:

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Party packages for all sizes and budgets! Mention this ad and get

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Free Community Engagement Fair March 7th 12pm-3pm CET Studios Helping children learn about important community helpers in a calm and fun environment. www.CETconnect.org/meetthehelpers

Daddy/Daughter Donut Event

Valentine Gifts Birthday Parties Group Celebrations $ $ 13- 16 Party Packages

RSVP meetthehelpers@CETconnect.org or call 513-345-6508 for more information.

MADEIRA

7754 Camargo Road 513.561.1888 MadPotterCincinnati.com

Minutes from Kenwood Town Center cet_familymagazine_ad-FEB2020-NEW.indd 1

1/6/2020 10:37:52 AM

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February 2020 27

daily listings

wed 5

World Read Aloud Day MEET A MILLIPEDE Join the Front Desk staff at Rowe Center to learn all about millipedes and even meet a few, too! Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Cincinnati; 3 p.m.; included in daily admission, $9 adult, $4 children; free for members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

FREE NATIONAL WEATHERPERSON’S DAY Join meteorologist, Jennifer Ketchmark, to learn all about weather maps and experience working with a green screen! BCPL Hebron Branch, 1786 Burlington Pike, Burlington; 6 p.m.; 859-342-2665 or bcpl.org.

FREE WONDER Be curious, ask questions, ponder the Earth and sky while cherishing winter’s delight. Explore snow and ice, discover what animals do in winter and make candy! Daily programs vary - February 5 - 8, 12 - 15, 19 - 22, 26 - 29. Glenwood Gardens/Highfield Discovery Garden, 10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati; 10:45 a.m.; a valid motor vehicle permit is required to enter the park; 513-771-8733 or greatparks.org.

thu 6

FREE FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOK SALE

Browse thousands of used books, audiobooks, VHS, DVD’s, Vinyl and

FIND FEBRUARY EVENTS REQUIRING ADVANCE REGISTRATION ONLINE. more. All purchases help fund programs at The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County. Used BookStore at the Warehouse, 8456 Vine St., Cincinnati; store hours available February 6 - 9; grab a basket and fill it up with discounted children’s books, DVD’s and more; 513-369-6035 or cincylibraryfriends.org/winter-book-sale.

FREE SHOW AND TELL ON THE FARM: IT’S ALL IN THE SNOW Learn all about snowflakes and how snow affects life on the farm through interactive activities, a craft and snack. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Road, Trenton; 10 - 11 a.m.; a valid vehicle permit is required to enter the park; 513-8675835 or yourmetroparks.net.

TAFT JR. ALL ABOUT ME Toddlers are invited to explore the parts of their faces during this fun art program; kids can hear a story about funny faces, make a wacky portrait and investigate the faces within Taft paintings. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati; 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.; $9.99 adults, free for ages 18 and younger and members; 513-241-0343 or taftmuseum. org.

THURSDAY ART PLAY: THE SHAPE OF THINGS Explore, learn and create art with a focus on shapes, lines and color. Stick around after the program for some kid-friendly yoga. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; $5 per child,

Meterologist, Jennifer Ketchmark, shares her weather expertise at the Hebron Branch library on Wed., Feb. 5. free for members; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org/programs/ family-programs/thursday-art-play.

FREE YOUNG ADULT LAB: WATERCOLOR STUDIO Join the CAC every Thursday in the UnMuseum for Young Adult Lab, a free drop-in art making program for young adults! Artists and educators will be on-hand to show us how to experiment with watercolor paints. All supplies will be provided by the CAC. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati; 4 - 8 p.m.; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org/programs/ teen-programs/young-adult-lab.

fri 7

National Wear Red Day for Heart Disease Awareness

CINCINNATI CYCLONES MILITARY APPRECIATION + WINTER HAT NIGHT Join the Cyclones as they show appreciation for current and retired military. The first 3,000 fans will receive a reversible Cyclones winter hat. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; $20 and up tickets, $18 and up advance tickets; 513-421-4111 or cycloneshockey. com/game/2020/02/7/militaryappreciation-winter-hat-night.

SPOTLIGHT

NEWPORT AQUARIUM WINTER FAMILY DAYS

tep into an underwater world of learning and fun at the Newport Aquarium now through March 1. Families can enjoy Shark Bridge, Stingray Hideaway and more during Winter Family Days’ discounted rate (buy one adult ticket for $25.99 and get one child ticket free). Newport Aquarium, 1 Aquarium Way, Newport. Call 1-800-406-3474, or go to newportaquarium.com for more information.

February 2020

NEWPORT AQUARIUM WINTER FAMILY DAYS (See spotlight this page).

PENGUIN DAYS It may be chilly outside, but many zoo animals are loving the winter weather. Visit the zoo discounted admission and special animal encounters, including the popular penguin parade (weekends at 11 a.m.). Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical

“Where Every Family Matters.”

Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; through March 13, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; 513-281-4700 or cincinnatizoo.org/ events/penguin-days.

sat 8

HIGH-LOW, FAST-SLOW, LET’S GO!

Opposites attract when it comes to making music; help spot musical differences during an interactive performance featuring flute, string bass, piano and drums. Friendship United Methodist Church, 1025 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati; 10 and 11:30 a.m.; $6 or 4/$20; lintonmusic.org/pbj.

MEET AND GREET: REDEARED SLIDER TURTLE AT CINCY NATURE CENTER Gather at Rowe Woods Visitor Center Lobby for an amazing animal demo; visitors will learn all about red-eared sliders, meet one and even see what they like to eat. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Cincinnati; 10 a.m.; included with daily admission, $9 adult, $4 children; free for members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

FREE SUPERMOON SUPER NIGHT HIKE Tread lightly and mind your chatter during this moonlit hike; explore the park after dark, test your senses and immerse yourself in the sounds of a world shrouded in darkness. Fernbank Park, 50 Thornton Ave., Cincinnati; 6 - 7:30 p.m.; a valid motor vehicle permit is required to enter the park; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org.

FREE THE O.F.F. MARKET Spend an afternoon supporting great local vendors while enjoying some live tunes at the Barrel Warehouse. MadTree

Brewing, 3301 Madison Road, Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; theoffmarket.org.

FREE THE SCOOP ON POOP Everybody poops! Come learn about some poop superstars in nature and what happens to scat when it is outside, then meet some animals who are subject matter experts. Summit Center, 1580 Summit Road, Cincinnati; 12 p.m.; 513521-7275 or greatparks.org.

FREE VALENTINE’S PARTY Celebrate this lovely time of year with an afternoon of games, crafts and creating valentine’s cards with sweet treats. Corryville Branch, 2802 Vine St., Cincinnati; 3 - 4 p.m.; 513-369-6034 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

sun 9

National Pizza Day FIGHT FOR AIR CLIMB AT CAREW TOWER

Grab a crew and climb Carew’s 45 floors and 804 steps for the 15th annual Fight for Air Climb; this challenge benefits The American Lung Association. Carew Tower, Cincinnati; 9 a.m.; $33 self-donation to register; 1-800586-4872 or action.lung.org/site/ tr?fr_id=18731&pg=entry.

FREE PLAY CAFÉ Meet friends during this fun, family program; there will be sensory stations, curated toys and more during this giant community play date! Hungry? Check out Fausto, the CAC’s new restaurant, serving yummy morning bites and lovely lattes. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; food and drink available for purchase; 513-3458400 or contemporaryartscenter.org/ calendar/2019/12/08/play-cafe.

SECOND SUNDAY FAMILY SHOW Families, spend the second Sunday of the month at the CCAC for special musical and theatrical performances; stick around after each show for a festive reception. CCAC @ Short Vine, 2728 Short Vine St., Cincinnati; 2 p.m.; $5 for adults (scholarships available), free for kids; 513-497-2860 or cliftonculturalarts. org/events/signature-event-series/ second-sunday-family-showtime.

FREE SHOW AND TELL ON THE FARM: LOVE IS CHOCOLATE Get ready for Valentine’s Day with some sweet discussion about chocolate. Learn all about it through hands-on activities, crafts and a snack. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale

Road, Trenton; 2 - 3 p.m.; a valid vehicle permit is required to enter the park; 513-867-5835 or yourmetroparks. net.

mon 10

FREE DESSERTWORKS CAKERY Come decorate cookies and cupcakes at the library. Learn to make icing by measuring ingredients, then use a bag and pipe for some decorating delicious fun! Wyoming Branch, 500 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati; 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.; 513369-6014 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

SUPER SPROUTS Little one’s can stop by the museum to create a masterpiece each week. This program is available on Mondays and Thursdays with a new theme offered each week! Cincinnati Museum Center - Duke Energy Children’s Museum, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; program included with Discovery Pass admission, $14.50 adults, $13.50 seniors, $10.50 children, free for members; 513-287-7000 or cincymuseum.org.

tue 11 FREE ABC PLAY WITH ME Promote early literacy, explore activities and make memories at the library. Florence Branch, 7425 U.S. 42, Florence; 10 - 11:30 a.m.; 859-3422665 or bcpl.org.

FREE ART CLUB FOR KIDS: COLOR MIXING HEARTS Experiment with color and create a fun, pop art-styled poster. Reading Branch, 8740 Reading Road, Reading; 4 - 5 p.m.; 513-369-4465 or cincinnatilibrary. org.

LIVING IN SPACE Celebrate the women who contributed to the moon landings and the modern women who continue to make space history. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 3 3:30 p.m.; program included with membership or Discovery Pass admission, $14.50 adults, $13.50 seniors, $10.50 children; 513-287-7000 or cincymuseum.org.

NATURE IN WINTER STORY TIME Venture to the Rowe Visitor Center’s Whittaker Library for a nature-themed story time. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Cincinnati; 10:30 a.m.; included with daily admission, $9 adult, $4 children; free for members; 513-831-1711 or calendar.cincynature. org.

wed 12

FREE HOT COCOA MIX

It sure is cold and hot cocoa is the perfect way to warm up; come to the library to create a hot cocoa mix kit. Greenhills Branch, 8 Enfield St., Cincinnati; 3 - 4 p.m.; 513-369-4441 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

FREE KIM DOBBS PRESENTS “LET’S BE BOLDLY BEARCAT” Join Joseph-Beth for an evening with local author, Kim Dobbs! In “Let’s Be Boldly Bearcat,” the University of Cincinnati bearcat mascot takes young readers on a visual tour of the University of Cincinnati’s campus. Joseph-Beth Booksellers, 2692 Madison Road, Cincinnati; 7 p.m.; 513-396-8960 or josephbeth.com.

FREE SHARKS! WITH THE WAVE FOUNDATION See and touch live sharks in a special after-hours presentation. Presented by the WAVE Foundation of the Newport Aquarium. Mariemont Branch, 3810 Pocahontas Ave., Cincinnati; 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.; 513-369-4467 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

FREE TEEN VALENTINE PARTY Don’t let the little kids have all the fun; teens can celebrate Valentine’ Day at the library with fun games and tasty candy! CCPL Fort Thomas/Carrico Branch, 1000 Highland Ave., Newport; 3:30 - 5 p.m.; 859-572-5033 or cc-pl.org.

thu 13

FREE BLACK HISTORY MONTH TRIVIA FOR KIDS

Children are invited to make teams and test their knowledge on Black History Month. Elmwood Place Branch, 6120 Vine St., Cincinnati; 4 - 5 p.m.; 513-369-4452 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

AIR!

adults, $4 children; free for members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

FREE SHOW AND TELL ON THE FARM: LOVE IS ON THE FARM Who is in love at the farm? Celebrate love with hands-on activities and make some Valentine’s to share with a loved one. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Road, Trenton; 10 - 11 a.m.; a valid vehicle permit is required to enter the park; 513867-5835 or yourmetroparks.net.

THURSDAY ART PLAY: VALENTINES DAY Heart-themed art making and yummy breakfast snacks. Stick around after the program for some kid-friendly yoga. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; $5 per child, free for members; 513-3458400 or contemporaryartscenter.org/ programs/family-programs/thursday-artplay.

TODDLER THURSDAYS AT DIG ‘N PLAY Dig up some fun; kiddos can explore a huge sand table, dramatic play area and a giant three-story play structure. Dig ‘N Play, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $3 for ages 0 - 2 years old; 513-847-1055 or dignplay.com.

FREE YOUNG ADULT LAB: 10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU Teens can create jumbo cards, take a whack at a heart piñata and enjoy pizza at this anti-Valentine’s Celebration. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati; 4 - 8 p.m.; 513-3458400 or contemporaryartscenter.org/ programs/teen-programs/young-adult-lab.

fri 14

Happy Valentine’s Day

FREE LOVE IS IN THE

Make some valentines and enjoy a sweet treat at the library. Oakley Branch, 4033 Gilmore Ave., Cincinnati; 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.; 513369-6038 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

MEET AND GREET: SNAKES AT CINCY NATURE CENTER Meet at the Rowe Woods Visitor Center Lobby for this drop-in program. Say, “Hello,” to a snake and discover what it eats. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Cincinnati; 11 a.m.; included with daily admission, $9

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

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February 2020 29

daily listings ALL ABOUT ANIMAL FRIENDSHIPS Everyone needs a pal they can count on through thick and thin; come learn all about animal bonds with fun activities, story time and a craft! Miami Whitewater Forest/ Visitor Centre, 9001 Mount Hope Road, Harrison; 11 a.m. 12 p.m.; $7.50 per child, payable at the door + a valid motor vehicle permit is required to enter the park; 513-3674774 or greatparks.org.

JIM DINE VALENTINE Celebrate Valentine’s Day by creating works of art for loved ones. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 2 - 2:30 p.m.; program included with membership or Discovery Pass admission, $14.50 adults, $13.50 seniors, $10.50 children; 513-2877000 or cincymuseum.org.

sat 15

CINCINNATI CYCLONES NICKELODEON WEEKEND

The Cyclones are visited by Spongebob Squarepants (Feb. 14), Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Feb. 15) and Paw Patrol (Feb. 16). Watch a fun hockey game and meet some fun Nick friends, too! Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; Feb 14 - 16, 7:30 p.m.; $20 and up per person, $18 and up advance tickets; 513-421-4111 or cycloneshockey.com.

FREE CINCINNATI FAMILY’S SUMMER CAMP ADVENTURE FAIR 2020 (see spotlight pg. 31)

FIND FEBRUARY EVENTS REQUIRING ADVANCE REGISTRATION ONLINE. FREE HIPPO DAY STORY TIME Celebrate National Hippo Day at the library with a fun program that includes a craft and story time. CCPL Newport Branch, 901 East 6th St., Newport; 11 a.m.; 859-572-5035 or cc-pl.org.

FREE MOTHER DAUGHTER SPA DAY The library is turning into a DIY spa; mothers and daughters are invited to enjoy some pampering and to learn how to recreate the experience at home. CCPL Fort Thomas/Carrico Branch, 1000 Highland Ave., Newport; 1 p.m.; 859-572-5033 or cc-pl.org.

MY FURRY VALENTINE Find a new furry best friend at the tri-state’s largest annual pet adoption event. In 10 years, this event has helped facilitate over 6,000 companion animal adoptions. Open your heart and say I “ruff” you to a “pur”fect new furry friend at this fun event. Sharonville Convention Center, 11355 Chester Road, Cincinnati; Feb 15, 12 - 5 p.m.; Feb 16, 10 - 5 p.m.; $25 Early Bird Entry for Saturday 10 a.m. - noon, $5 admission for ages 5 and older; 513-509-7681 or myfurryvalentine.com.

FREE NATURE MYTH BUSTERS Can a snapping turtle really bite someone’s finger off? Join a nature interpreter and animal friends to debunk popular myths. Miami Whitewater Forest/ Visitor Center, 9001 Mount Hope Road, Harrison; 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.; a valid motor vehicle permit is required to enter the park; 513-3674774 or greatparks.org.

sun 16

FREE SHOW AND TELL ON THE FARM: MIGRATE, HIBERNATE AND TOLERATE

Brr, it is cold outside! How do animals survive in this winter weather? Learn all about migration, hibernation and toleration during this program through hands-on activities and crafts. Then enjoy a snack inside the beautiful Augspurger House. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Road, Trenton; 10 - 11 a.m.; a valid vehicle permit is required to enter the park; 513867-5835 or yourmetroparks.net.

mon 17

FREE ARE YOU READY FOR YETI? Dedicate a day to a yeti hunt at the library; make a yeti mask, do the Yeti stomp and even taste some “Bumble Crumble” while tracking the elusive mythical creature. BCPL Scheben Branch, 8899 U.S. 42, Union; 2 p.m.; 859342-2665 or bcpl.org.

FREE CARDS AND LETTERS TO OUR TROOPS As part of Random Acts of Kindness Week, visit the library to make a card or write a letter for deployed soldiers that are serving overseas - pictures and stories are encouraged! Greenhills Branch, 8 Enfield St., Cincinnati; 3 - 5 p.m.; 513369-4441 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

tue 18

FREE EDIBLE CRAFTS: LUCKY CAT COOKIES Meow! Learn all about Japanese Maneki Neko (“Lucky Cats”) and decorate a lucky cat cookie to eat as a snack. Covedale Branch, 4980 Glenway Ave., Cincinnati; 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.; 513-3694460 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

FREE STEM FUN: CUPID’S ARROW BALLOON PHYSICS Learn all about Newton’s Third Law of Motion by constructing a balloon arrow to race against friends. Reading Branch, 8740 Reading Road, Reading; 4 - 5 p.m.; 513-369-4465 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

Super Sprouts (Feb. 10) at Duke Energy Children’s Museum lets kids get artsy!

February 2020

“Where Every Family Matters.”

wed 19 FREE HOT WHEELS FUN Explore the physics of motion while racing Hot Wheels with friends. West End Branch, 805 Ezzard Charles Drive, Cincinnati; 5 - 5:45 p.m.; 513-3696026 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

thu 20

FREE POETRY TEA TIME FOR HOMESCHOOLERS! Read and share published poems, then create your own. Snacks will be provided. Pleasant Ridge Branch, 6233 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati; 1 - 1:45 p.m.; 513-369-4488 or cincinnatilibrary. org.

FREE SHOW AND TELL ON THE FARM: GROW AS WE GO

Find out all about the plant and animal life cycles that exist on the farm. Investigate how living things grow and change through hands-on activities, a craft and a snack. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Road, Trenton; 10 - 11 a.m.; a valid vehicle permit is required to enter the park; 513-867-5835 or yourmetroparks. net.

THURSDAY ART PLAY: DRESS IT UP Enjoy a fashion forward program inspired by Lindsay Whittle’s wearable UnMuseum mural. Stick around after the program for some kid-friendly yoga. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati; 10:30- 11:30 a.m.; $5 per child, free for members; 513-3458400 or contemporaryartscenter.org/ programs/family-programs/thursday-artplay.

fri 21

CINCINNATI CYCLONES WIZARDS WEEKEND

The Cincinnati Cyclones take on the Indy Fuel. The first 3,000 attendees receive a free Twister wand (21) or Puckchop wand (22). Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway, Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; $20 and up, $18 and up advance tickets; 513-421-4111 or cycloneshockey.com.

TODDLER TIME AT BMLP

Interactive story time with the ManaTeam. Blue Manatee Literacy Project, 3094 Madison Road, Cincinnati; 10 - 10:30 a.m.; $2 suggested donation; 513-2570774 or bluemanatee.org.

sat 22

FREE CINCINNATI HOME + GARDEN SHOW

Envision your future home and garden dream projects at the Cincinnati Home + Garden Show! Duke Energy Convention Center, 525 Elm St., Cincinnati; Feb. 22 & 23, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Feb 24 & Mar 1, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Feb 27 & 28, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.; $14 adults ($12 advance order); free for children 12 and younger.; 513-826-3427 or cincinnatihomeandgardenshow.com/ information.

SPOTLIGHT!

FREE FAMILY FESTIVAL: UNMUSEUM OPENINGS Stop by the CAC for the unveiling of their newest Art Lab mural! It’s a collaboration between artist Lindsey Whittle and local high school students. Create artwork inspired by this new addition and stick around for a family-friendly artist talk at 1 p.m. in the CAC’s UnMuseum. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati; 12 - 3 p.m.; 513-3458400 or contemporaryartscenter.org/ calendar/2020/02/22/family-festivalunmuseum-opening.

TANGRAMS

It’s International World Thinking Day, celebrate by trying out a challenging wisdom puzzle. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 11:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.; program included with membership or Discovery Pass admission, $14.50 adults, $13.50 seniors, $10.50 children; 513-2877000 or cincymuseum.org.

FREE TROPICAL BEACH PARTY Beat the winter blues with a fun tropical beach party; enjoy beach music, learn to hula, use hula hoops, create crafts and enjoy a snack. Hawaiian aloha attire encouraged! Pleasant Ridge Branch, 6233 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati; 2 - 3 p.m.; 513-369-4488 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

sun 23

FREE SHOW AND TELL ON THE FARM: THERE’S A COW IN MY MARSHMALLOW Come to this program to learn how a cow got into the marshmallows, then help feed the farm critters the food they actually like to eat. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Road, Trenton; 2 - 3 p.m.; a valid vehicle permit is required to enter the park; 513-867-5835 or yourmetroparks. net.

A happy camper shows off his tin foil art at The Art Workshop.

CINCINNATI FAMILY’S SUMMER CAMP ADVENTURE FAIR 2020! t’s time to think about all of those free hours your child will have come summer! Thank goodness for local day and residential camps! Come meet one-on-one with camp reps during Cincinnati Family’s Summer Camp Adventure Fair 2020 taking place Saturday, Feb. 15 from 10 a.m. -

2 p.m. at Blue Ash Recreation Center (4433 Cooper Road). Bring the kids along for face painting, balloon animals, performances and giveaways and make plans for summer! We’ll see you there!

FREE THE PIGEON WANTS A PARTY Celebrate Mo Willems’ birthday with a series of stories, songs, games and crafts all centered around that pesky little pigeon! BCPL Scheben Branch, 8899 U.S. 42, Union; 2 p.m.; 859-342-2665 or bcpl.org.

mon 24

FREE STAR LIGHT, STAR BRIGHT

wed 26 Ash Wednesday FREE SQUISH Dress for a mess and enjoy paint, slime and more at the library. BCPL Scheben Branch, 8899 U.S. 42, Union; 6:30 p.m.; 859-342-2665 or bcpl.org.

thu 27

FREE PAPER CUPCAKES

Meet up with local astronomy enthusiasts, Cat Behrman and Rachel Page, to check out the night sky through the lens of a telescope. Hyde Park Branch, 2747 Erie Ave., Cincinnati; 6 - 7:30 p.m.; 513369-4456 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

Craft paper cupcakes — almost delicious enough to eat! Elmwood Place Branch, 6120 Vine St., Cincinnati; 4 - 5 p.m.; 513-369-4452 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

Happy Mardi Gras

Live animal demonstrations, activities and a snack. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Road, Trenton; 10 - 11 a.m.; a vehicle permit is required to enter the park; 513-8675835 or yourmetroparks.net.

tue 25

FREE MARDI GRAS MASKS Celebrate Mardi Gras in-style by creating a cool mask! Hyde Park Branch, 2747 Erie Ave., Cincinnati; 3 - 4:30 p.m.; 513-369-4456 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

FREE SHOW AND TELL ON THE FARM: A FARMER’S NATIVE FRIENDS

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

THURSDAY ART PLAY: CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

Use loose parts and art materials to make a mess and get creating! Stick around after the program for some kid-friendly yoga. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; $5 per child, free for members; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org/programs/ family-programs/thursday-art-play.

FREE YOUNG ADULT LAB: COLOR PLAY ON CARDBOARD Join the CAC every Thursday in the UnMuseum for Young Adult Lab, a free drop-in art making program for young adults! Artists and educators will be on-hand to help teens in creating abstract paintings. Supplies and snacks will be provided by the CAC. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati; 4 - 8 p.m.; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org/programs/ teen-programs/young-adult-lab.

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February 2020 31

daily listings

fri 28

FREE BUG APPETIT

Cultures all over the world consume insects as a tasty and healthy treat! Kids can open their minds during this program by tasting some samples; they can even meet some live insects, too. Summit Center, 1580 Summit Road, Cincinnati; 7 p.m.; 513-521-7275 or greatparks. org.

CINCINNATI CYCLONES BEASTS NIGHT Celebrate the 40th anniversary of the King’s Island wooden roller coaster! Players will wear specialty jerseys; the first 3,000 fans will receive a bobblehead. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; $20 and up tickets, $18 and up advance tickets; 513-421-4111 or cycloneshockey.com/ game/2020/02/28/cincinnati-beastsnight.

FREE SPECIAL NEEDS FAMILY NIGHT Special needs families can enjoy an after-hours, low-stress visit to the library and participate in fun activities together. Norwood Branch Library, 4325 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati; 6:30 - 8 p.m.; 513-369-6037 or cincinnatilibrary. org.

VENUS FRIDAY That super bright light in the sky is the planet Venus! Come learn all about Venus, tour the observatory buildings and view Venus and the moon through the historic telescopes (weather permitting). Cincinnati Observatory, 3489 Observatory Place, Cincinnati; 7 - 9 p.m.; $10 adults, $5 children, free for observatory members; 513-321-5186 or cincinnatiobservatory.org.

Sat 29

FREE LEAP DAY PARTY Celebrate this special day that only comes once every four years! Enjoy a story time, crafts, games and snacks dedicated to frogs and all things that LEAP. Covedale Branch, 4980 Glenway Ave., Cincinnati; 1 - 3 p.m.; 513-3694460 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

FREE LEAP DAY PARTY Make the most of this “extra” day by attending a Leap Day party at the library. CCPL Fort Thomas/Carrico Branch, 1000 Highland Ave., Newport; 1 p.m.; 859-572-5033 or cc-pl.org.

February 2020

WHAT’S PLAYING There are lots of great shows playing in the city this month. Take your kids, or plan a date night!

ANNIE JR.

Sat, Feb. 29, 2 p.m. Additional public performances through March 8 513-569-8080 thechildrenstheatre.com Taft Theatre 317 East 5th St., Cincinnati

America’s most charming orphan is back and spunkier than ever; watch as Annie sings and dances her way through the big apple during her journey to finding a new family. (Feb. 29 — signed for the hearing impaired; March 8, 11 a.m. — a sensory-friendly performance). Tickets start at $10.

DANCING WITH THE STARS LIVE!

Fri, Feb. 7, 7:30 p.m. 513-232-6220 tafttheatre.org/ events/2020/02/ dancing-with-the-stars-live Taft Theatre 317 East 5th St., Cincinnati

Love watching ABC’s hit show Dancing with the Stars? See the show live! Kate Flannery (The Office) joins the show along with professional dancers wowing the audience with dazzling costumes and spectacular choreography. Tickets start at $49.50.

DISNEY’S THE LION KING Sat, Feb. 1 at 2 and 8 p.m. & Sun, Feb. 2 at 1 and 6:30 p.m. 513-621-2787 cincinnatiarts.org/events/ detail/the-lion-king Aronoff Center for the Arts 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati Hakuna Matata! Elaborate costumes, breathtaking sets, amazing choreography, majestic music and a truly beloved story will transport audiences to the Pride Land during this fabulous, family-friendly show. Tickets start at $29.

HARRIET TUBMAN: STRAIGHT UP AND OUTTA’ THE UNDERGROUND

Sat, Feb. 1 and 2 at 3 p.m. 513-369-6029 cincinnatilibrary.org Madisonville Branch 4830 Whetsel Ave. Cincinnati

Bring the past to the present and change the future with this one-woman interactive storytelling experience. Follow Harriet Tubman on her journey as the most recognized conductor of the Underground Railroad who helped to free more than 300 slaves.

LES MISÉRABLES

Runs Feb. 11- 23 513-621-2787 cincinnatiarts.org/events/ detail/les-miserables Aronoff Center 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati

This Tony Award-winning Broadway hit comes to Cincinnati with new, reimagined scenery. Get tickets to see the beautiful new production and to hear beloved songs like “I Dreamed A Dream,” “Stars,” “On My Own” and more. Tickets start at $31.

MURDER MYSTERY VALENTINE’S DINNER (register)

Sat, Feb. 15, 6 - 9 p.m. 513-867-5835 yourmetroparks.org Voice of America MetroPark Ronald Reagan Lodge 7850 VOA Park Drive West Chester Midnight at the Masquerade! Attend the Billionaires’ Club Masquerade Ball and get the soiree back on track by solving a crime. Dress formally, for a classy night of masks and murder! Admission includes a threecourse dinner catered by City BBQ. Light appetizers, non-alcoholic beverages and a cash bar will be available. The Murder Mystery Company puts on a show that draws patrons in on the adventure; arrive 30 minutes early. Show contains adult humor and is not intended for children. $45 per person; $41.99 per person for groups of eight or more.

“Where Every Family Matters.”

OPERA AT THE LIBRARY: THE BARBER OF SEVILLE

Sun, Feb. 22 at 2 p.m. 513-369-4476 cincinnatilibrary.org Loveland Branch 649 Loveland Madeira Rd. Loveland

Join ROKCincy for a special adaptation of Rossini’s classic comedy, The Barber of Seville, sung in English and Italian.

RAVINE TO FREEDOM

Sun, Feb. 22, 6 - 8 p.m. 513-542-2909 explorenature.regfox.com/ publicravinefreedom LaBoiteaux Woods Nature Preserve 5400 Lanius Lane Cincinnati

Learn about local ties to the Underground Railroad from a historian, then set out on a guided tour to meet historical figures. Step back in time to 1853 to discover what the journey from slavery to freedom may have been like. Appropriate for families with children ages 10 years old and older. Donations appreciated.

STUART LITTLE PERFORMED BY CINCINNATI PLAYHOUSE IN THE PARK

Sat, Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. BCPL Main Library 1786 Burlington Pike Burlington; 2 p.m. 859-342-2665 | bcpl.org

Stuart Little is a lovable mouse whose adventures come to vivid life through a series of delightful scenes. Based on E.B. White’s endearing classic, this adaptation presents the maneuverings of a mild-mannered mouse trying to survive in the great, big world. Free with advanced registration.

Why Flu Vaccines? Now that kids are back in school, we are reminded of many things typical of this time of year – parent-teacher meetings, sporting events and extracurricular activities. This time of year should also serve as an important reminder that flu season is just around the corner. By getting a flu vaccine for yourself and your entire family every year, you can help prevent flurelated illness, missed school, and missed work. Everyone 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop an immune response. Get vaccinated now so you will be protected all season long! In addition to immunizations, here are just a few conditions our office treats: Acne • Acute illnesses and injuries Allergy Asthma and related disorders • Attention deficit disorders Bed-wetting • Behavioral problems • Birth defects • Breastfeeding Childhood literacy • Childhood weight management Complex medical problems • Dermatology Digestive disorders in children and teens • Eating disorders Gastroenterology • Immunizations • Incontinence • Infant nutrition Learning disabilities • Newborn development • Nutrition Preventive healthcare/Well child checks • Recurrent ear infections School difficulties • Sexuality counseling • Sleep disorders Teen pregnancy prevention

Children’s Medical Center 331 N. Breiel Blvd., Middletown, OH

(513) 424-1856

www.childrenscmc.com

Rebecca A. Dandoy, MD

James M. Komer, MD

Kenton A. Pate, MD

Diana E. Small, MD

Jennifer Thornicroft, FNP

CintiFam_ymca_Feb20.pdf

1/17/20

11:27 AM

Day Camp Kick-Off

IT’S TIME TO

Saturday March 7 We’ll waive the

registration fee and you’ll be entered to win a free week of camp!

THINK SUMMER

MyY.org

Overnight Camp Ernst Spaces are filling quickly

Week-long overnight camp for children ages 6-15.

Now Hiring for Summer Apply at MyY.org/jobs

Lifeguards ages 16+ Camp Counselors ages 18+

Transforming Lives