APRIL 2021
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CAMP GUIDE READY FOR SLEEPAWAY CAMP? Day and Residential Camp Listings
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Things to Do for Your Family's Spring
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True or False? Are You in Labor or Not?
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Campers and a counselor at Camp Roosevelt Firebird, a residential camp located in Bowerston, Oh.
IN THE ISSUE
FEATURES
2
10
3
5
9
Editor's Note Preparing for Baby.
Feedback Moms discuss their labor experiences; plus, win BIG with our two-week summer camp giveaway to Camp Roosevelt Firebird!
Profile: An Unbreakable Bond
For tennis pros Lynn and Caty McNally, playing tennis is a total family affair.
Women's Health For first-time moms about to deliver a baby, the signs of impending childbirth are tricky to discern. So are you in labor or not?!
21
Use our award-winning calendar to plan your family's month!
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Cincinnati News Come to our Summer Camp Adventure Fair 2021; Earth Day events; the Reds' open ing day and quick briefs.
THINGS TO DO!
12 Sleep-Away Camp: Is It for Your Child?
15
SUMMER CAMP & ACTIVITIES
The adventure of a lifetime awaits, but read this first before signing up kids for a session away from home.
ON THE COVER
Happy campers with a counselor at Falcon Camp, located in Carrollton, Oh.
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
april 2021 1
the little things
Fun for now. Skills for life.
By Amanda Hayward
Preparing for Baby "Mommy, I bet you're ready for the baby to be here!" "Yes, Will, I am! Why do you think I'm ready?" "Because it's going to be nice not having a big belly anymore and you'll feel better!"
Celebrating
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This was a big laughing moment for me. I love conversations with kids — they are so blunt and honest. Well, he wasn’t wrong! In addition to ongoing questions about when their little sister will make her big debut and bonding with my active belly, the kids are building up heaps of excitement. I am too, of course, and I guess you can say I’m building up some worry and sleepless nights to go along with it. Preparing for your first, second and third -— whatever the number — is no joke. My worries consist of: Will I be able to give my kids as much attention as I do now? Will I mentally be able to handle a third when some days I feel like I can barely keep up with two? Do I have everything I need? Will this labor go better than the second? I know it will all come together and everything will work out just fine. But these are thoughts that go through almost every mama's mind being particularly true the further along you are in your pregnancy. There is more to prepare for than making sure you're loaded up on diapers and wipes. It's reorganizing your life and being certain you have all of your ducks in a row before you turn your head and there’s a tiny baby lying next to you soundly (or restless) in her bassinet. For other pregnant mamas out there (and I need to practice what I preach here!) that, “Yes,” it will all be OK. First words of advice: You don’t have to do this on your own. If you have older kids, they may be thrilled to help out with the feedings or grabbing some diapers from the closet for you. This is a great way to get them involved so that they don’t feel left out. If you have Littles that still need undivided attention, there may be days where you need to call up your Mom or have your spouse take over those duties for a while. Ask for help (something I have a very hard time doing!) such as close friends and family, your partner (it’s 50/50!) and trusted neighbors. If they offer to make you a meal, take them up on it. If they offer to let you nap while they take over baby duties, you better take that nap. Final piece of advice: Your feelings are valid. If you’re overwhelmed, sad, stressed, lost — whatever you’re feeling, you are feeling it for a reason and you are NOT alone. Talk to someone who will listen, then take a deep breath and find some time for yourself. It’s not easy, but you will get through this. You may even look back one day and think “Wow, how did I do that?” EDITOR
2 april 2021
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Parent Poll "Every labor experience is different — my first was easier than my second! I'm worried about how the third one will go. With each child, did labor get easier or harder for you? Can use some positive vibes over here!" — Editor, Amanda Hayward
Campers enjoy a mud trek at Camp Roosevelt Firebird.
“My third baby was easier! Active labor lasted 61 minutes. He was born about 15 minutes after I decided I was sure I was in active labor and 10 minutes after I called my midwife. Good thing we had planned a home birth because this boy was being born at home no matter what!” Miranda Paytes
Activities galore are available at Camp Roosevelt Firebird..
win! A Two-Week Traditional Camp Session at Camp Roosevelt Firebird
W
e are giving away a two-week traditional camp session to Camp Roosevelt Firebird located in
Bowerston, Oh — more than $2600 in value! At Camp Roosevelt, your child can have a blast. Your camper will experience an endless amount of excitement during a twoweek overnight summer session that includes a beautiful location, experienced leadership, a carefully trained and
“Four all different. The first one I was way over medicated with an epidural and they had to use clamps because I could not feel anything to push — my legs were numb for four hours after the birth. Baby #two I had a car accident that sent me into labor and they gave me what’s called a "walking epidural." The last two were natural home births with a midwife. Baby three was two hours start to finish, baby four was four hours start to finish. But the last two were way easier than the first two! My third was my easiest!" Bridgett Stegeman “Third baby was a breeze for me! She came on her due date. My water broke just after noon, they
gave me my epi around 6 cm — before I was really in any pain at all — and she was in my arms at 6:30 p.m. Easy delivery, easy baby, but she definitely keeps us on our toes now!” Courtney Neal “Third one was easy peasy. I didn’t even get any stitches!” Brandy Haines Moreland “Second was easier over all (pretty much all labor was done at home) and MUCH faster (about 12-18 hours total versus 36-ish hours; Baby was born less than three hours after we arrived at the hospital), but my epidural didn't work right. I was in a lot of pain at the end and my blood pressure dropped dangerously low, enough so that the nurses were starting to panic!” Rachel Whims “My second was so much faster and easier than the first. I was admitted around 4:30 and had my son in my arms just a little over four hours later. It was great!” Jessica Huck Cooper
caring staff and more. Traditional camps are perfect for kids ages 7 -15. Learn more at camprooseveltfirebird.com.
DEAR READERS!
ENTER TO WIN THROUGH THURSDAY, APRIL 15 at cincinnatifamilymagazine.com under the "Contests" tab! Good luck!
As we went to press with the April 2021 issue, our Editor, Amanda Hayward, was on baby watch! Read Hayward's Editor's Note on page 2 (and, if you're soon to deliver a baby, turn to page 9 to read about the trickiness of knowing whether you're in labor or not). Good luck!
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
april 2021 3
SUMMER’S COMING ER CA M M
20 21 I A RE F
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More than 25 camps and summer programs! Learn more at cincinnatifamilymagazine.com Got a camp? Email us now to secure your booth at the fair. events@daycommedia.com
CINCINNATI NEWS By Amanda Ciani
Falcon Camp, located in Carrollton, Ohio will be on-hand at the 2021 Summer Camp Adventure Fair at Blue Ash Nature Park on April 10.
Come to Cincinnati Family's
2021 Summer Camp Adventure Fair!
F
amilies, mark your calendars! The popular Cincinnati Family Magazine 2021 Summer Camp Adventure Fair will be held Saturday, April 10 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Blue Ash Nature Park (4337 Cooper Road). This year’s event will take place outdoors so families can get fresh air while browsing local and regional camp booths. There will be plenty of hands-on activities offered by vendors and kids will definitely want to check out the five playgrounds
at the park. We hope you can join us for this event to learn more about a wide range of summer camp options, participate in giveaways and have lots of fun. And speaking of giveaways, be sure to register for a chance to win our Camp Roosevelt Firebird giveaway — valued at $2600 — at cincinnatifamilymagazine.com under the "Contests" tab. To learn more about the camp fair, go to bit.ly/3r6r7Ke or call 513-322-5052 for more information.
Celebrate Mother Earth
G
et outside with the family all monthlong and enjoy these events
for Earth Day (Thursday, April 22).
SAT., APRIL 24: • ART AND EARTH DAY AT PYRAMID HILL SCULPTURE PARK & MUSEUM 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton pyramidhill.org/art-earth-day 513-868-1234
Free admission, art demos, guided hikes and more from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. plus the Contemporary Arts Center Spring Family Festival from 12 - 3 p.m.
• EARTH DAY CLEANUP AT BIG BONE LICK STATE HISTORIC SITE 3380 Beaver Road, Union, Ky parks.ky.gov/union/events/ events/earth-day-creek-clean | 859-3843522
Help celebrate Earth Day from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. by creating a cleaner planet; volunteers will be picking up around Big Bone Creek. cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
• EARTH MONTH FAMILY QUEST AT CINCINNATI NATURE CENTER (REGISTER) 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford cincynature.org | 513-831-1711
Explore the trails with the family from 2 - 4 p.m. on a quest to become the ultimate conservationists; help Mother Nature while journeying through different habitats and completing tasks.
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april 2021 5
cincinnati news
Play Ball! The Cincinnati Reds Opening Day (April 1) is always an event, and after last year's cancellation, it's actually been two years since the Reds had a traditional opening day game. This year, the Reds will start their 162-game season against the St. Louis Cardinals at the Great American Ballpark, but no Findlay Market Opening Day Parade will take place (according to parade Chairman Neil Luken, a parade will not be held until the Reds can accommodate 45,000 fans safely). However, Findlay Market will be open. To see the Reds' full schedule, learn about safety protocols in-place and to purchase tickets, go to mlb.com/reds/tickets.
Get Cincinnati Family's Interactive Summer Camp Adventure Guide 2021!
S
ummer's around the bend, and Cincinnati Family aims to help you make plans for your child's wideopen summer days ahead. Our brand-new Summer Camp Adventure Guide 2021 is available on our homepage. The guide includes videos from camps, helpful summer camp feature stories and camp listings galore. Check out a digital copy now at cincinnatifamilymagazine.com.
NEWSY BITES Fight For Air Moves to GABP
Limited Edition Suncatchers
Fetch Pet Care Opens in Florence
The Fight for Air Climb has a new home for 2021: Great American Ball Park (100 Joe Nuxhall Way)! This outdoor stair climb, which will take place on April 25, will raise funds and awareness for lung cancer screening and research. Also this year, St. Elizabeth and Radiology Associates of Northern Kentucky staff will be joining the cause. This popular annual stair climbing event usually takes place at Carew Tower, but it is moving outdoors to ensure participant safety; masks will be required and social distancing will be practiced. Registration is $35 with a $100 fundraising minimum. For more information on how to climb for a cause, visit bit.ly/38WxKbX.
Each month in 2021, a limited-edition, natured-themed sun catcher will be released through a partnership between InsideOut Studio, Hamilton Parks Conservancy and 12 amazing artists. InsideOut Studio (140 High St., Hamilton) works alongside Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities to support individuals with disabilities while promoting purposeful living and earning an income through art. More than 50 artists work in the studio on a regular basis to create unique works of art using a variety of mediums. Visit insideoutstudioonlinestore.com or call 513-857-5658 to purchase one of these truly unique pieces.
Families now have a new care option for their furriest friends. Fetch! Pet Care is slated to begin offering in-home services out of Florence, Kentucky with offerings like professional dog walking, pet sitting, overnight care and even pet taxi services. Pet owners can make a reservation, match with a provider and then relax while their pooches receive amazing in-home care. Call 859-963-2120 or visit fetchpetcare.com/NKYC
6 april 2021
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
Cincinnati Fire Museum Partners with BlaCk Coffee Lounge Help support local businesses with a new partnership between Cincinnati Fire Museum (315 W Court St. | 513-621-5553 | cincyfiremuseum. com) and BlaCk Coffee Lounge (824 Elm St. | 513-802-5228 | facebook.com/blaCkCoffeeCincy). There are two ways to save: show a receipt from BlaCk Coffee for $2-off admission at the Cincinnati Fire Museum OR show a Cincinnati Fire Museum receipt at BlaCk Coffee for a 15 percent discount on orders. The Cincinnati Fire Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Kids can slide down a fire pole, and discover life-saving fire safety facts. BlaCk Coffee serves coffee, community and culture.
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health like the real thing, but after resting and monitoring, the contractions will go away or get less intense which doesn’t happen if it’s the real deal,” she adds. Labor really means that you are experiencing regular and painful contractions, causing your cervix to dilate. Having back pain? This is common in pregnancy and it’s possible that it could be related to labor. Other times, these lower back pains are just the “normal” aches that come along with pregnancy in addition to other symptoms, which can be confusing. If you are having lower back pains and are unsure what they are related to, call your doctor right away. “Other symptoms that go along with true labor can be your water breaking or some light vaginal spotting that happens as your cervix starts to dilate (this is called bloody show),” Jeirath says. “Some moms experience Braxton Hicks contractions (unpredictable contractions) for weeks before going into true labor which can be really confusing and frustrating!” Rule of thumb: when in doubt, call your OB/Gyn or midwife. Your doctor would much rather hear from you with your concerns rather than miss something big, Jeirath says.
Signs Labor is Near
True or False? Waiting on Baby to make that grand arrival often trips women up. So ... are you in labor or not?! By Amanda Hayward
T
he anticipation is real, but Baby will come when she is good and ready and sometimes this can turn into a long, drawn-out waiting game. If you’ve never experienced labor before, how do you know if your contractions are real or not? “False labor” is very much a thing that brings couples to the hospital too soon — even the most experienced mamas can be confused. So how do you differentiate between false and real labor? “Typically when moms are in ‘real labor’ they will have really regular and painful contractions that get more frequent and painful over time,” says Neha Jeirath, M.D., OB/Gyn at Mercy Health. “Sometimes ‘false labor’ can feel cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
There are some ways you can know if labor is in your near future. Common signs include diarrhea, a slower weight gain or weight loss; increased fatigue; a boost of energy or the “nesting instinct;” or vaginal discharge dispelled as either a blob (called the “mucus plug”) or a runny smear. Yes, it is hard to predict exactly when labor will happen, but keeping an eye out for increasing contractions can be one sign, says Jeirath, plus staying in-tune with those final week-by-week cervical checkups. If you’re still worried, the best thing you can do to ease your mind is to ask questions during your prenatal visits, and talk to friends and family who have been pregnant before and can offer reassuring, helpful advice. “A lot of times though things don’t always go quite as planned, so being flexible is key because in the end the goal is to have a happy and healthy mom and baby!” says Jeirath. Amanda Hayward is editor of this publication and a mom of two.
april 2021 9
profile
an unbreakable bond
I
By Amanda Hayward
heard the roaring sound of rackets and screechy tennis shoes. I was talking with Caty McNally, Women’s Tournament Association (WTA) champ and next generation WTA star of American tennis players from Madeira, Oh. Caty is the daughter of Lynn McNally, former WTA pro and long-time coach at Harper’s Point who was inducted into the Cincinnati Tennis Hall of Fame in 2009. Needless to say, Caty and Lynn have many accomplishments under their belts, and most importantly, a devoted relationship and supportive family. Caty walked into her older brother, John’s, tennis match at his college, Ohio State University as she continued to tell me her story. I sensed the bond she has with her family — she cheered on John while being interviewed — and she proved to be a
Tennis pro, Lynn McNally, says there is nothing more rewarding than watching her daughter, Caty, follow her dreams.
determined woman. Later, as Lynn and her husband played, Caty and John watched. According to Lynn, they never thought their kids would play tennis. Then, at only 3 years old, here came Caty dragging along her racket and balls, “hitting on the wall” for hours at the tennis club where her mom taught. Caty began taking lessons and playing at age 6. By age 8, she was playing in tournaments. She grew up with it, and she began to love the sport. Now 19 years old, Caty made the decision to go professional in 2020. “In no way did we think our kids would ever play tennis,” says Lynn. “We weren’t expecting them to; we didn’t care if they did or didn’t. They wanted to play, and I would say they drug me out and we started playing as a family every Sunday night.” Family tennis nights expanded into dedicated involvement with tennis programs, to traveling to national-level tournaments. From
Caty McNally at the U.S. Open last year at age 18. Photo credit: WTA Tour
10 april 2021
there, John and Caty both built a path for themselves; Caty went pro after graduating from Madeira High School with a supportive team around her including Lynn, Caty’s main coach. “I work with her all the time at home,” says Lynn. “I’m not in it for the sprint, I’m in it for the long hall for her.” Caty currently has a WTA ranking of No.120 and WTA Doubles ranking of No. 44 in the world. In addition, she has won two doubles titles on the WTA tour (2019 Citi Open Championship; and 2019 Luxembourg Open Champion) with her best Grand Slam doubles result being Australian Open Quarterfinalist (2020, 2021) and her best Grand Slam singles result being third round of US Open (2020). Furthermore, Caty has defeated eight top 100 players and two top 30 players in her young career. Asking how her mom’s coaching and support has influenced her accomplishments, she immediately talks about Lynn’s work ethic and willingness to do whatever it takes to be there not only as a coach, but as a mom for John and her. “She works too much, honestly,” Caty jokes. “She works so much to support me and my brother and just even to get us to where we are. My dream one day is to have her with me at all these events. It just adds more fuel to my fire. She does everything behind closed doors, day-in-andday-out, and I just want her along for the journey.” Lynn separates her family and tennis life quite well, and how she sees her daughter goes well beyond her tennis accomplishments. “Not only is she my daughter,
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Caty and Lynn McNally she is doing something she loves which is important, but I want her not only to be a good tennis person, but a great person,” Lynn says passionately. “I would rather have Caty and John be good people than great tennis players. Because if you’re a good person, that’s something that can never be taken away.” At the end of the day, family time is number one. Yes, tennis is part of their life, but it’s known that on the court, Lynn is her coach, and off the court, she is Mom — something they established from the get-go. Leaving tennis for the court and making time to unwind at home helps keep their relationship that much more valuable.
TOP COACHING TIPS FOR ANY PARENT • Most important: have an open mind of communication. Hear the child. • Never put the sport in front of your child. • In life, no matter what, you’re going to win, you’re going to lose; accept the pitfalls and put your arm around your child no matter what. • Give your child space. • Everything you do, learn from it. Hopefully you can also talk about it! • Your relationship with your kids is always there — don’t let the relationship get altered. Amanda Hayward is editor of this publication and the mom of two — soon to be three — kids.
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april 2021 11
summer of ‘21
By Kelly Hater
Happy campers at Camp Roosevelt Firebird, a co-ed residential summer camp located in Bowerston, Ohio.
Sleep-Away Camp Is it Right for Your Child?
Are you on the fence about sending your kid to an “away” camp this summer? Weigh your options here to discover if a big adventure is in the cards!
T
here is nothing quite like the sweet smell of bonfires, insect repellent and sunscreen to mark a successful summer vacation. Without a doubt, residential summer camp is THE best place to find yourself in this fresh scent of nature. The adventures it holds and friendships that grow from sleepaway camp host unique memories and skills that last a lifetime. Heading to residential camp for the first time is a big deal. The decision to send your kids must not be made lightly. It might even rival the decision you made as a parent to start potty training your children. In both cases, you and your child must be ready to take on a new adventure together. If you are considering overnight summer camp for your kids, then you have come to the right place. We have all the details you need to know before taking the registration plunge. BENEFITS OF RESIDENTIAL CAMP Residential camp is a unique place that offers so many benefits to your camper. For starters, the camp environment is very nurturing — it gives kids a sense of community and encourages participation through fun, structured activities. Kids get a true sense of belonging and responsibility that is nearly impossible to create in the
12 april 2021
home environment no matter how inclusive and service-oriented your home environment is. Campers are surrounded by young adults, usually young professionals or college-goers on summer break, whose only job is to engage campers. Camp counselors are screened to be positive role models and they have the potential to be great influencers by offering the simple gift of time to your kids. So often as parents we do not have the luxury to just relax and do nothing with our kids. At sleepaway camp, time is plentiful, therefore kids are afforded the opportunity to relax and reflect. Kids who attend sleepaway camps do activities in teams or groups, and it teaches them to learn to work well with others while also having freedoms to make individual choices. Upon returning home, you may find that his ability to cooperate with peers and siblings improved after overnight camp. Camp teaches kids to take responsibility for themselves and for the camp community. For example, many camps often have daily chores for campers to help with such as cleaning the mess hall, cleaning latrines, building the bonfire or performing in a flag raising ceremony. Campers who go to a residential summer camp display increased self-reliance and confidence especially when interacting with adults other than their parents; the list of benefits never ends. According to Peter Scales, Ph.D., author, and psychologist, “Camp is one of the few institutions where young people can
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experience and satisfy their need for physical activity, creative expression and true participation in a community environment,” he says. “Most schools don’t satisfy all of those needs.” The benefits are immeasurable because kids learn life skills at sleepaway camp. BUT IS HE READY? There are obvious signs that indicate when he is ready for a residential camp — it’s a big stepping stone for any kid. Try to look for these telltale signs that he is ready to be away from you for an extended period: √ Can he shower/bathe himself? √ Can he independently brush his teeth, get dressed, brush his hair and use deodorant? √ Can he read proficiently? Typically, campers are given a schedule and daily agenda. For a successful camp visit, he will need to be able to read the schedules and get where he is supposed to be at a certain time of day. If the answer is, “No,” then you might want to think about getting him a wristwatch or getting him used to using an alarm clock in the mornings. Self-sufficiency is the goal before going to camp; living at camp enhances these skills at home. √ Does he cling desperately to you in new social settings? √ Does he struggle with eating? √ Does he experience bedwetting? If he has difficulty controlling his bladder, then ideally this skill should be mastered first.
THE BEST AGE FOR CAMP Age is not the single most important determining factor of readiness for sleepaway camp, however, the average age for kids to begin attending overnight camp is between 7 - 10 years old. What matters more is the child’s maturity level. A very mature 7 year old could be self-sufficient enough to go to a residential camp, while a very immature 10 year old could be too insecure to manage themselves away from home. Age has little to do with the homesickness some campers experience. Homesickness — acute psychological distress when separated from home and loved ones — is typically seen in inexperienced campers. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that parents involve their kids in the process of choosing and preparing for camp. In addition, they highly recommend having open dialogue about homesickness. The AAP stresses that parents be positive about upcoming experiences to avoid doubt or concern. Kids need to know that their parents believe in their ability to be independent. So, give lots of pep talks before the big drop-off day — he can totally do this without you! If he needs to practice, then arrange time to do away sleepovers before camp and then frame the upcoming camp experience with one of his most enjoyable experiences away from home. Positive memories of time away from home will give him positive vibes right from the get-go. Remember, the purpose of sleepaway camp is to experience new adventures and meet new friends. Some trepidation about camp is normal, but an overnight camp is probably the wrong type of stress for you and your camper if you are answering, “Yes,” to anything on this checklist. There is no set timetable for sleepaway camp; every parent-child relationship is different and if the answer is not this year, then it will be something to work toward for next summer. “Some kids are ready to rock four weeks away at age 8, but some won’t feel comfortable with two weeks away at 11,” says Allie King, owner and director of Camp Arrowhead. “We are passionate about residential camp because it really allows kids to develop independence and discover who they are
A camper blacksmiths at Camp Arrowhead, located in Zirconia, N.C. outside of their family. It also lends itself to better bonding with fellow campers and skill development,” she adds. HOW CAMPS ARE STAYING SAFE Health and safety are of the utmost importance at summer camps. Research potential camps’ health and safety protocols and be sure you fully understand. Summer camp registration entails submitting health history records and an updated physical, so be ready for that. Submitting highly detailed health information is normal, so be sure to check with camps on what paperwork you will need to complete prior to sending off your camper. With the pandemic still in play this summer, most viable summer camps have created a COVID-19 mitigation plan. Your camp’s mitigation plan should address pre-arrival screening, mask requirements/expectations, social distancing plans, sleeping arrangements, personal hygiene accommodations, dining operations and accessibility to health care services for your camper. To learn more about how camps are handling COVID-19, head online to the American Camp Association’s COVID-19 Resource Center. The link to the resource is found by scrolling to the bottom of the homepage acacamps.org. SO ... ARE YOU READY? All-in-all, if you are thinking about sending your kiddos to a residential camp, do your homework. Research camps and find a few great places that you are comfortable with and then ask your child how he feels about it. Open dialogue is key to helping both of you to feel invested in the adventure of summer camp. Kelly Hater is a mom of two and the owner of Mama Bear Domain with more than 15 years of coaching experience and a B.S. in Health Promotion specialized in Exercise Science.
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Now Registering for
CAMPS!
Music, Acting, Dance, Gymnastics and more!
513.829.2345 • WestChesterAcademy.com 8107 Market Place Drive • West Chester, OH 45069
Museum Camps are back! Sign up for adventure.
cincymuseum.org
Spend summer outside at
CINCYNATURECAMP Ages 3–13 • June 7–August 6
www.CincyNature.org 14 april 2021
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
A Paid Advertising Directory
SUMMER CAMPS & After-School Program Guide
CAMP ERNST – YMCA OVERNIGHT CAMP
Offering Overnight and Day Camp from Jun. 13 - Aug. 7 for campers ages 6 - 15. Campers stay in cabins with top notch counselors and enjoy the lake, ropes course and activities like archery, team building and biking. Ranch camps available for horse lovers ages 7 - 15. Call or visit our website for full details.
7615 Camp Ernst Road, Burlington, KY 859-586-6181 • myycamp.org
CAMP AT THE J
8485 Ridge Road, Cincinnati 513-722-7241 • mayersonjcc.org/camp
Voted Best Day Camp in the 2020 Best of Parenting poll! Activities include archery, sports, arts and crafts, drama, music, Israeli culture, and swimming. Campers will be grouped into pods no larger than 12 with all campers and staff required to wear masks when inside the facility while maintaining a social distance. Dates: Jun. 14 - Aug. 16. Hours: 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Extended care available. Grades K - 8. Flexible weekly options available. We cannot wait for another magical summer filled with memories and friendships that last a lifetime.
CAMP ROOSEVELT FIREBIRD 4141 Dublin Road SW, Bowerston 740-269-0137 • camprooseveltfirebird.com
FALCON CAMP
4251 Delta Road SW, Carrollton 800-837-CAMP (2267) • falconcamp.com
Co-ed, residential, 3.5 hours from Cincinnati in the Appalachian foothills. Carefully developed COVID policies for this summer. Our focus is: fun, growth, community, and diversity. Campers develop close friendships, gain confidence and develop leadership. Activities: sports, swimming, arts, boating, farming, climbing, zip-line, mountain biking, tennis, camping, wacky games, campfires and more. Small, close-knit community. We’re “green” serving tasty healthy food. We inspire our campers to improve camp and the world! Directors, Joe and Cynthia, are educators with over 30 years experience. Two- and 4-week sessions plus family camp and wilderness adventure programs. Ages 7 - 16.
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 coed events. 1:4 staff/camper ratio. Most of all, it’s a great time! ACA accredited, many references. please turn the page...
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SUMMER CAMPS YMCA DAY CAMP Multiple YMCA Locations myy.org/camp
Week-long camps are offered Jun. 1 - Aug. 13 for campers ages 5 - 15. Your child will grow confident, make friends and create amazing memories by being included in all the fun. Campers rotate with a small group visiting the swimming pool, S.T.E.M. activities, group games and more. 11 Camp Sites serving Anderson, Batavia, Blue Ash, Burlington, Colerain, Ft. Thomas, Hillsboro, Springfield Township, West End, and Western Hills.
ABRAKADOODLE
513-297-5655 ext. 3 abrakadoodle.com/oh-greater-cincinnati Our camps are designed for children to experience the fun and excitement of day camp in an enriching and safe environment. Each camp offers structured activities in arts and crafts supplemented with special related activities. Children are introduced to master and contemporary artists, multicultural arts, styles, techniques and quality art materials. Our art camps include art lessons, music, games and special activities for children ages 3 - 12. Visit our website for locations and dates. CAMP INVENTION 3701 Highland Park, North Canton 800-968-4332 | invent.org/camp Spark your kid’s creativity and confidence with our new Camp Invention® program, Recharge! Campers in grades K - 6 will team up to take on fun, hands-on STEM challenges. From taking apart their own microphone to exploring solar-powered crickets and creating duck-launching devices, each activity is designed to give your young innovator an unforgettable summer experience. Secure your spot and save on our website.
7426 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati 513-233-2633 codeninjas.com/oh-anderson-township Transform your child’s love for technology into an exciting learning adventure. Guided by our team of Code Senseis, Code Ninjas Camps empower kids to gain valuable tech skills and make new friends. It’s an unforgettably fun learning experience! This year we will be offering week-long summer camps. We will offer different sessions each week featuring some of the most popular games/activities among kids. Camp themes will include Minecraft, Roblox, YouTube, Legos, 3D printing and more. CINCINNATI SHAKESPEARE COMPANY The Otto M. Budig Theater 1195 Elm St., Cincinnati 513-381-2273 | cincyshakes.com/summercamp Whether you’ve never stepped on a stage before, or have already been bitten by the acting bug, our theatre camps are the perfect place to learn some new skills, make some new friends, and have a whole lot of fun! In person programs for students in grade 3 - 12 who want a fun and challenging stage experience this summer. Learn more online. Cost: $295/ week. Camps in June and July.
KIDS FIRST SPORTS CENTER – CAMP-A-PALOOZA
7900 E. Kemper Road, Cincinnati 513-489-7575 | kidsfirstsports.com Campers get the very best! 108,000 sq. ft. 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.
MATHNASIUM
TAFT MUSEUM OF ART SUMMER CAMP
316 Pike St., Cincinnati 513-241-0343 taftmuseum.org/families-children/summer-camp Paint, sculpt, draw, and explore the city’s art with experienced teachers. Camps for grades 1 - 3, 4 - 6, and 7 - 12. Early Bird pricing ends March 1! Scholarships and after-care offered.
YMCA CAMP KERN
5291 State Route 350, Oregonia 1-800-255-KERN | 513-932-3756 | campkern.org There’s no end to the new adventures waiting for you at YMCA Camp Kern. Our week-long camps focus on making new friends, growing through shared challenges, and spending time outdoors. Each program is designed with specific age groups in mind, so each campers’ interests are met. We are widely known for our fully themed programs. Interested in scholarship opportunities? We have that too with all the help you need located on our website.
Art Workshop
CODE NINJAS
7 Locations in the Greater Cincinnati/NKY Area mathnasium.com Mathnasium is here to help your student with all of their math needs! This summer you can help your student feel confident at the beginning of next school year, no matter what grade level they will be entering. We use a customized Learning Plan that is designed around your student’s individual needs. We then use the inhouse curriculum to help tailor their lessons to their specific areas so we can maximize their time with us. We do all of this and we make learning fun!
16 april 2021
A Paid Advertising Directory
Located at Queen City Clay 3130 Wasson Road, Hyde Park 513-406-4009 theartworkshopinc.net All our camps are available for students ages 6 and up with a select few for age 5. Camps begin Jun. 1 and run for 12 weeks. Camp packages for families and before- and aftercare available. Pottery wheel camp offered every week. Camps also include beginning and advanced drawing, Princesses, Knights and Unicorns, painting, printing and batik, Pet Boutique, Wizards Unite, stop action Lego’s, animals, birds and creatures, Comic book and Manga camp. Classes are after school and Saturday’s throughout the year.
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.
Children’s Meeting House
927 O’Bannonville Road, Loveland 513-683-4757 cmhschool.com Visit our website to see all the camps we are offering this year. Our camps offer a variety of arts, crafts, nature, science, drama, and fun activities for children ages 3 - 12 on our beautiful 7+ acre campus. Camps are led by experienced CMH staff who are eager to share their passion for learning and having fun with our campers. Reserve your space NOW!
Cincinnati Art Museum
953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati 513-721-2787 cincinnatiartmuseum.org/summercamp The Cincinnati Art Museum is the place for summer fun and creativity. Jump into art with eight weeks of exciting projects, gallery games and more! Explore a different theme each week with activities taught by skilled museum educators. Themes include Young Impressionists, Spooky & Strange and Geek Out. Convenient before- and after-care available. Member discount available. Camps run Jun. 14 - Aug. 13. Ages 6 - 12. Camps will follow all CDC and Ohio guidelines for COVID-19 prevention.
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.
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
Anderson Township
STEAM
codeninjas.com
SUMMER CAMPS
Half- and Full-Day Camps
REGISTRATION OPEN!
513.406.4009
theartworkshopinc.net
REGISTER TODAY!
Scientists/Jr. Scientists Engineers/Jr. Engineers Stop Motion Animation Robotics/Jr. Robotics Video Game Design Brick Art & Design Mining & Building Ninjas & More
Full & Half Day Options Available! SUMMER CAMP 2021 Camp schedule is online now!
3D Printing
YouTube
Robotics
Roblox
Minecraft
Scratch
Camps for ages 6 and up. Pottery Wheel • Wizards Princesses • Pets • Printing Painting • Drawing Cartooning • Manga
513.406.4009 theartworkshopinc.net
513-988-7363 www.bit.ly/snapcamps
Earlybi rd Discou nt through April 30 th!
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SUMMER CAMPS Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park Summer Theatre Camp and Performance Academy
Snapology
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.
Greenacres Foundation 8255 Spooky Hollow Road, Cincinnati green-acres.org/camps Summer adventures return for 2021 in our fun and COVID-safe day camps! Each program offers its own, unique, way to explore all that Greenacres has to offer. Get creative outdoors with Arts in the Natural World, be a trailblazer in Outdoor Adventures, or experience Greenacres after dark at Night Camp. A Greenacres camp will fill your child’s summer with unforgettable experiences and are tailored to be age appropriate. Camps run June through August. Heritage Village 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville 513-563-9484 heritagevillagecincinnati.org/summer-camp Tucked away in lovely Sharon Woods Park, Heritage Village Museum is a unique setting for this exciting hands-on experience for the “19th century” student. Campers will discover the past and how kids lived in the 1800s through games, chores, toys, and hands-on activities. Civil War Camp: Jun. 7 - 11; Native American Camp: Jun. 21 - 25; Immersive History Camp 1: Jul. 12 - 16; Immersive History Camp 2: Aug. 2 - 6.
Mason Dance Center
A Paid Advertising Directory
600-B Reading Road, Mason 513-398-0353 masondance.com We provide 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!
westchestertwp.snapology.com 513-988-7363 We are the premier partner for STEAM programs, offering year-round programs in schools, community facilities, local businesses and homes. Kids have so much fun in our programs that they don’t even realize they’re learning! Offering a variety of half- and full-day STEAM-based summer camps. Camp themes include: Scientists/Jr. Scientists; Engineers/ Jr. Engineers; Stop Motion Animation; Robotics/Jr. Robotics; Video Game Design; Brick Art & Design; Mining & Building; Ninjas and more!
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 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.
Sycamore Presbyterian Preschool
11800 Mason Road, Cincinnati 513-683-7717 sycamorechurch.org/preschool Caring, Christian environment with hands-on, child-centered approach enhancing academics, social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Curriculum aligns to ODE’s Early Learning Content Standard.
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.
Whatever Summer Looks Like This Year, We’re Here for You
Our Summer Kickstart Program is built to help combat the summer slide in mathematics education. We work to ensure there is no loss in a student’s math understanding so that they can start the new school year out ready to tackle all of the new challenges. With live, face-toface instruction either online or in our centers, we’ll catch them up and keep their math skills strong for this year and beyond!
You’ve got a lot on your plate right now. With Mathnasium, you and your child can take on the new school year with confidence and determination. Call us today or go online to schedule a complimentary assessment for your student!
www.mathnasiumcom
7 Convenient Locations to Serve You
Anderson | Blue Ash | Fort Mitchell | Hyde Park | Loveland | Mason | West Chester
18 april 2021
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
www.artacademy.edu/camp
Art is more exciting when you color outside the lines. Give your kids an OUTSIDE-THEBOX arts experience that will help them sow the seeds of creativity and grow their futures! At Camp Art Academy, children receive an award-winning arts education while exploring their creativity and making new friends within a diverse and inclusive community. Focused on balancing technical instruction with freedom of self-expression, kids learn to embrace their curiosity and individuality as they develop essential artistic skills and techniques with lots of fun! Classes are held in-person and online during six-week summer camp. CREATE/EDUCATE/RECREATE
ONE WEEK ART CAMPS FOR 5 TO 12 OLDS CREATE/EDUCATE/RECREATE
Follow the adventures of Donkey Hodie, the granddaughter of the original Donkey Hodie character from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.
Coming to PBS Kids on May 3
CETconnect.org
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Sponsored Content
APRIL IS ASD AWARENESS MONTH This April spring has officially sprung. With the arrival of spring comes a feast for the senses: bright bursts of color, the fresh scent of flowers and wet dew on green grass. It is simply invigorating! Along with warmer weather and sunnier days, the month of April is also dedicated to Autism Awareness. The CDC estimates that 1 in 54 children has been identified as being on the autism spectrum. In fact, many ASD therapy programs incorporate sensory play to promote language development, social interaction, motor skills, problem solving and more. Take a cue from nature and support ASD awareness this month by indulging the entire family with some “sensory activities.’’ Infants to senior citizens, neurotypical and neurodivergent; it turns out, sensory play is for everyone. Chelsea McNichols, OTR/L, CIMI notes that “individuals across the lifespan benefit from sensory input” and goes on to say that “it looks different at different phases of development.” McNichols explains that we all benefit from activating our senses to stimulate brain function. While babies can enjoy a sensorimotor experience through tummy time, toddlers may get their motors going with an obstacle course. Preschoolers can practice pre-writing skills in flour and elementary age kids can work on sight words with fingerpaint. Even senior citizens can benefit from a sensory activity like yoga. Simply put: activating the senses means boosting brain power! Plan a trip to Puzzle Pieces to grab some great sensory toys, fidgets and tons of other brain boosters. From squishy water beads, scented kinetic sand, therapy swings (great for kiddos to read chapter books in), weighted blankets, balance toys and so much more - this mom-owned sensory sensation store has everything families need to activate all of their senses. Puzzle Pieces encourages kids to try-it before they buy-it; there are dozens of demo toys laid out for kids to explore. There is also a calming room with bubble tubes and the newest addition is a jungle-themed play room with sand and water play area, rock wall and playhouse - so get ready to play the day away and truly activate little one’s senses at this amazing local business.
PUZZLE PIECES A Sensory Sensation
11912 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati
(513) 583-1874 puzzlepiecesohio.com
APRIL THINGS TO DO By Amanda Ciani
READERS: In lieu of COVID-19, many events may be subject to cancellation. Please double check events before you go!
22
DAILY EVENTS
FREE! Mom & Me Stroller Hike Series (must register!)
B
ring little ones out on a walk through the park to explore nature and learn about trees, flowers, birds and more. The program is designed for babies 6 months to 24 months old and a caregiver. Walks are from 10 - 11 a.m. To register, call 513751-3679 or explorenature.regfox.com/ springstrollerhikes. APRIL 1: Mount Airy Park 5083 Colerain Ave. APRIL 8: Eden Park 950 Eden Park Drive APRIL 15: Friendship Park 1135 Riverside Drive APRIL 22: Ault Park 5090 Observatory Ave. MAY 6: Smale Park 120 East Mehring Way
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THINGS TO DO
DAILY EVENTS thu 1 FREE AMERICAN PAINTINGS: THE EIGHTIES REVISITED (register) New York City, 1979. A controversial exhibition, “American Paintings: The Eighties,” questioned if abstract paintings were the future of contemporary art. Cincinnati, 2021. Modern art enthusiasts can view 40 of the original 41 abstract pieces in this revisited exhibition. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; Tuesday - Sunday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., museum open until 8 p.m. on Thursdays; 513-7212787 or cincinnatiartmuseum.org.
FREE ART PLAY HIKE (register) Cincinnati Parks and the Contemporary Arts Center have teamed up for this program. Children ages 2 - 7 can get moving outside, exploring a new park with a naturalist. Afterward, pick up an Art-2-Go bag to create a masterpiece at home. Eden Park - 950 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati, Oh; available April 1 and 8, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; contemporaryartscenter.org/ programs/family-programs/artplay-hike.
CINCINNATI FIRE MUSEUM SCAVENGER HUNT Search for important fire-related artifacts within the fire museum’s exhibits. Find all 12 items listed on the Scavenger Card to receive a special prize. Cincinnati Fire Museum, 315 West Court St., Cincinnati; Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $8 adults, $6 ages 7 - 17 years old, free for ages six and younger with admission of an adult; 513-621-5553 or cincyfiremuseum.com.
22 april 2021
Fans take in a Cincinnati Red’s game at Newport on the Levee’s Bridgeview Box Park’s giant screen.
FREE DROP-IN: PLAY & LEARN – COLOR SORTING Help little ones 6 months old and older learn through play; this fun kit will help kiddos practice color identification and counting while encouraging communication skills. Available while supplies last through the month (open daily 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; closed Sundays). Green Township Branch Library, 6525 Bridgetown Road, Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; 513369-6095 or cincinnatilibrary.org.
FRIENDS OF MUSIC HALL OUTDOOR BUILDING TOURS (register) Learn more about Music Hall’s unique architecture and history with a 60-minute outdoor walking tour available Thursdays at 4 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m.; Music Hall, 1241 Elm St., Cincinnati; $15 per person, $5 ages 11 and younger; group and student discounts available; 513-621-2787 or friendsofmusichall.org.
MAYA: THE EXHIBITION Step back in time to discover a world of ancient innovators. This exhibit features over 300 artifacts that shed light on the many insights of the Mayan people. Cincinnati Museum Center,
1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; Thursday - Monday in April, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $21 adults, $19 seniors, $14 ages 3 - 12, free for ages 2 and younger, $14 member adult, free for member child with paying member adult; 513-2877000 or cincymuseum.org/maya.
FREE MOM & ME STROLLER HIKE SERIES (register) (See page 21).
OMNIMAX AT CMC Movie-goers can catch a feature film at the OMNIMAX. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; showtimes Thursday - Monday, see website for April showing schedule; $9 adult, $7 children, $6 member adult, $5 member children; 513287-7000 or cincymuseum.org.
CINCINNATI REDS OPENING DAY It’s been two years since the Reds has a traditional Opening Day game. The Great American Ballpark will be open at 30 percent capacity and masks are required; social distancing will be enforced. Season ticket information can be found at mlb. com/reds/tickets.
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
CINCINNATI REDS OPENING DAY AT NEWPORT ON THE LEVEE Buy yourself peanuts and Cracker Jacks and get ready to root for the home team! Newport on the Levee- Bridgeview Box Park, 1 Levee Way, Newport; see website for up-to-date times; newportonthelevee.com/events.
OUT OF THE DARKNESS EXHIBITION Pyramid Hill’s first indoor exhibition of 2021, Out of the Darkness, features artwork inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum, 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton; daily through May 23, 12 - 5 p.m.; $8 adults, $3 ages 6 - 12, free for members and ages 5 and younger; 513-868-1234 or pyramidhill.org.
ROCKIN’ TOTS Tots can bounce on trampolines in a slot dedicated to kids ages 6 and younger. Rockin’ Jump, 8350 Colerain Ave., Groesbeck; 9 - 11 a.m.; $16 for one adult and one child up to 6 years old (two hours of jump time); $3 each additional child. $2 rockin’ socks; rockinjump. com/cincinnati/rockin-tots.
SPRING BREAK HORSE CAMP (register) Campers can learn all about horses during this three-day spring break camp. Suitable for beginner to advanced riders; registration is on a first-comefirst-served basis. Winton Woods Riding Center, 10245 Winton Road, Cincinnati; 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $250 per camper; 513-521-3980 or greatparks.org/calendar.
SPRING BREAK ZOO CAMP (register) Hikes, rides, animal encounters and lots of fun with friends. Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $235 - $250; 513-559-7767 or cincinnatizoo. org/education/camps-classes-zootroop/zoo-camp.
SPRING CELEBRATION AT ENTERTRAINMENT JUNCTION Head to EnterTRAINment Junction for a spring-themed scavenger hunt and more. EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Court, West Chester; Monday - Saturdays 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sundays 12 - 6 p.m.; $17.95 Do-It-All admission; 513-898-8000 or entertrainmentjunction.com.
FREE STORYWALK AT CALIFORNIA WOODS Take a springtime walk through the forest to enjoy the book Fletcher and the Springtime Blossoms, written by Julia Rawlinson. California Woods, 5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati; open daily through May; 513-2318678 or cincinnatiparks.com.
This extreme air sports arena featuring trampolines, a zip line and so much more will be a big hit with little ones. Defy Florence, 4999 Houston Road, Florence; 9 - 10 a.m.; $12 6 and younger, one free adult per paying child; 859212-9413 or defy.com/locations/ defy-florence-ky.
WILD WITH MY CHILD (register) Explore small wonders and sensory nature experiences during this hour session for ages 1 and 2 plus a caregiver. Session 1: April 1, 8, 15, 22; or Session 2: April 29, May 6, 13, 20; Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 10 - 11 a.m.; $70 non-member adult/child pair, includes daily admission; $60 members adult/child pair; 513-8311711 or cincynature.org.
ZOO BLOOMS PRESENTED BY PERFORMANCE LEXUS (register) See more than 100,000 tulips and over one million hyacinths, daffodils, flowering shrubs and bushes. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; open daily in April, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; see website for pricing information and online discounts; free for members; 513-281-4700 or cincinnatizoo.org/ events/zoo-blooms.
fri 2 BARNYARD BONANZA: PEN PALS (register)
5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati; 1 - 2:30 p.m.; 513-231-8678 or explorenature.regfox.com/ freehikesfridayapril.
JUMPEROO AT URBAN AIR Ages 5 and younger can have fun jumping and bouncing at Urban Air Adventure Park, 3175 Princeton Road, Hamilton; 11 a.m.; $10 per child, parents play for free; 513-795-8800 or urbanairtrampolinepark.com/ locations/ohio/hamilton.
OPEN INFLATABLES AT JUMP AND JACKS On Wednesday and Friday nights children can climb, crawl and slide through Jack’s Playground; kids 2 and younger can enjoy the Toddler Zone. Jump and Jacks, 7102 Office Park Drive, West Chester; 5 - 7:30 p.m.; $10 Friday nights, $8 weekdays, $4 toddlers through age 2 every day; 513-779-5867 or jumpandjacks.com.
sat 3 FREE BIG BONE LICK GOLDEN EGG HUNT Children will be given clues to find colorful eggs hidden throughout the park, prizes will be awarded to the finders. Three golden eggs will also be hidden without a clue, find one to win a grand prize! Big Bone Lick State Historic Site, 3380 Beaver Road, Union; 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 859-384-3522 or parks.ky.gov/union/events/events/ golden-egg-hunt.
COVINGTON FARMERS MARKET
Kiddos can explore a sand table, dramatic play area and a giant three-story play structure. Dig ‘N Play, 9405 Cincinnati Columbus Road; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; $4 for toddlers 1 - 2 years old; 513-8471055 or dignplay.com.
Moo! Children can meet a variety of livestock during this farmyard tour. Winton Woods Parky’s Farm, 10073 Daly Road, Cincinnati; 9 - 9:45 a.m. OR 11 - 11:45 a.m.; $8 per person; children must be accompanied by a paid, participating adult + a valid vehicle permit is required to enter the park; 513-521-3276 or greatparks.org.
TODDLER TIME AT DEFY FLORENCE
FREE HIKE FRIDAYS (register)
Circus performers, the Kamikaze Fireflies, will perform with hoops of fire and knives during this outdoor performance for
TODDLER THURSDAYS AT DIG ‘N PLAY
Bounce and play the mornings away with children 6 and younger.
Watch spring unfold in the park. California Woods Nature Preserve,
Local produce, meats, eggs and more at the new location: Butler’s Pantry Patio, 50 East Rivercenter Blvd., Covington; 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.; free parking validation with coffee purchased at 202 Madison Ave. lot; 859-888-0570 or facebook. com/covingtonfarmersmarket.
all ages. Pinball Garage, 113 North 3rd St., Hamilton; 3 - 5 p.m.; 513-805-7367; fittoncenter. org/fitton-outside-the-box or kamikazefireflies.com.
MAKE A HIKING STICK Craft a branch into a hiking stick then take it for a spin on one of the Cincinnati Nature Center’s beautiful hiking trails. Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 8:30 - 11:30 a.m.; $14, includes daily admission; $7 members; 513-8311711 or cincynature.org.
FREE SPRING FLING MARKET Browse spring wares from local vendors. The Redmoor Market, 3187 Linwood Ave., Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.; bit.ly/3rUONlW.
FREE SPRING WILDFLOWERS (register) Celebrate spring in Burnet Woods. Trailside Nature Center - Burnet Woods, 3251 Brookline Ave., Cincinnati; 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.; 513-751-3679.
FREE STONELICK STAR GAZES If the skies are clear, see stars, planets, galaxies and more at Ohio’s Stonelick State Park. At the Friends of the Observatory’s Dark Sky Viewing Site, individuals who bring their own telescopes can get guidance from seasoned astronomers. Stonelick State Park, 2895 Lake Drive, Pleasant Plain; 8:30 p.m.; 513-321-5186 or facebook.com/stonelickstargazers.
WIZARDING FUN (register) Explore magic in the Nature Playscape by decorating wands, and more. Cincinnati Nature Center Playscape, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 11 a.m.; included with daily admission, $9 adults, $4 children; free for members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.
FREE KAMIKAZE PINBALL!
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THINGS TO DO
old; 513-542-2909 or explorenature.regfox. com/trailsidespringwf.
sun 4
FREE OUTDOOR PRESCHOOL STORY TIME (register)
EASTER CELEBRATION AT CZBG (register) Zoo keepers will be giving animals enrichment treats to encourage exploration, foraging, problemsolving and play. Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; see website for pricing information and online discounts; free for members; 513-281-4700 or cincinnatizoo.org/events/eastercelebration.
FREE FAMILY STEAM NIGHT (register) Families are invited to the STEM Lab for a night of experiments and STEAM fun. Masks required; limited seating available. The STEM Lab, 11223 Cornell Park Drive, Blue Ash; 6 - 7:30 p.m.; donations accepted; 513-857-3366 or cincystemlab.com.
WILDFLOWER STROLL WITH NOEL Join Cincy Nature Center naturalist, Noel, for a Sunday stroll to explore different parts of the Krippendorf Estate and learn what wildflowers are blooming. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 11 - 11:45 a.m.; $10 non-members, includes daily admission, $5 members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.
mon 5 ART & NATURE SPRING BREAK CAMP! (register) Campers in grades K - 3 can enjoy time in nature playing games, hiking and more. LaBoiteaux Woods, 5400 Lanius Lane, Cincinnati; 12:30 - 3 p.m.; $15 per camper + $3 administrative fee; 513-751-3679 or explorenature. regfox.com/schoolbreakcamp.
OUTDOOR SURVIVAL SPRING BREAK CAMP (register) Campers in grades 4 through 6 will work on survival skills 24 april 2021
Kids ages 3 to 6 can enjoy books, songs, activities and more. This recurring program takes place on Tuesday mornings in April. Symmes Township Branch, 11850 Enyart Road, Loveland; 11 - 11:30 a.m.; 513-369-6001 or cincinnatilibrary.org. A kids’ aerial series is available at Hello Sunshine Yoga beginning April 8.
by building shelters and making fires. Caldwell Nature Center, 430 West North Bend Road, Cincinnati; 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.; $15 per camper + $3 administrative fee; 513-751-3679 or explorenature.regfox.com/ schoolbreakcamp.
SPRING INTO CAMP: SPRING BREAK CAMP (register) Join Cincinnati Nature Center for three days of outdoor adventures. Kids ages 5 - 12 will explore streams and fields, play games, create nature-inspired art and make new friends. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $210 non-members, $170 members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.
FREE TAKE & MAKE: MO’S FRIENDS (register) Enjoy activities inspired by Mo Willems’ beloved characters Piggie, Elephant and Pigeon. Supplies available April 5 - 10. BCPL Scheben Branch, 8899 U.S. 42, Union; 10 a.m.; 859-342-2665 or bcpl.org.
tue 6 FREE DELHI OUTDOOR STORY TIME On Tuesday mornings this month, join Miss Katy or Miss Rose on the front lawn for stories, music and more. Bring a blanket or lawn chair; events are weather permitting. Delhi Township Branch, 5095 Foley Road, Cincinnati; 10:15 - 10:45 a.m.; 513-369-6019 or cincinnatilibrary.org.
MEET AND GREET: REDEARED SLIDER TURTLE (register) Gather at Rowe Woods Visitor Center to meet a turtle. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Cincinnati; 11 a.m.; included with daily admission, $9 adult, $4 children; free for members; 513831-1711 or cincynature.org.
NATURE TOTS (register) Moms & tots can enjoy nature through stories, games, animal encounters and more with this four-week session. LaBoiteaux Woods, 5400 Lanius Lane, Cincinnati; 9:30 - 11 a.m.; $20 per pair (tot & guardian) per four-week session; for toddlers 1-and-a-half to 2-and-a-half years
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
TWO FOR TUESDAY AT MAD POTTER Paint using stamps, stencils, sponges and more, then pick it up a week later after it has been glazed and fired. Mad Potter, 7754 Camargo Road, Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.; BOGO adult studio fee ($8), kids 12 and younger studio fee is $6 each. Pottery pieces available starting at $9; 513-5611888 or madpottercincinnati.com.
wed 7 FREE LIBRARY NATURE ENCOUNTERS Families will enjoy books, songs and nature activities with the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library and Cincinnati Parks. Bring a blanket or chair for the outdoor program; masks and physical distancing required. St. Bernard Branch Library, 10 McClelland Ave., Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; 513-369-4462 or cincinnatiparks.com.
MOMMY AND ME ART CLASS (register) Join Abrakadoodle to discover art around the world. Seating is limited; masks and distancing are mandatory. Session is designed for ages 20 months up to 5 years old. The Carnegie Center of Columbia Tusculum, 3738 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati; 10 - 10:45 a.m.; (Turn to page 26)
Summer Camps for kids ages 3-12
www.abrakadoodle.com/oh-greater-cincinnati
513-297-5655 We love teaching your incredible kids!
Whoooo’s Opinion Counts? Yours! Pampers Discovery Center is looking for babies wearing size 2 diapers. Receive diaper products while you participate and up to $210 if your child qualifies. Curbside pickup now available.
Register online at: PampersStudy.com
Questions? Call: 513-945-0002 or Email: discoverycenter@pg.com
Babies in a full-time day care center or individuals employed in areas of conflict with P&G will not qualify.
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THINGS TO DO $41 for four weeks of Wednesday classes; abrakadoodle.com/ oh-greater-cincinnati-register.
WACKY WEDNESDAY AT MAD POTTER Personalize a piece of pottery then leave it to be fired and pick it up in a week. Mad Potter, 7754 Camargo Road, Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.; half-price studio fee for kids ($6 regular price; $3 discounted price); $8 adult studio fee + pottery pieces available starting as low as $9; 513-5611888 or madpottercincinnati.com.
thu 8 KIDS AERIAL SERIES (register) Ages 10 and older can learn the basics of aerial yoga during this four-week series. Classes take place on Thursdays. Hello Sunshine Yoga, 6211 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati; 4 p.m.; $60 per participant; hellosunshineyoga. com.
FREE SPANISH STORY TIME (register) Kids can enjoy Spanish story time while their grown-up grabs coffee. Milk & Beans, 574 Buttermilk Pike, Crescent Springs, KY; 4 p.m.; included with play pass, $6.50 per child; 859-360-0257 or milkandbeans.net.
FREE TAKE & MAKE: WEAVE A TREE FOR EARTH DAY (register) Make a woven tree art project designed for kids in grades 1 through 5. CCPL- Carrico/Fort Thomas, 1000 Highland Ave., Fort Thomas; 4 p.m.; 859-572-5033 or cc-pl.org.
fri 9 FREE CCPL SIGNATURE SERIES: JUNIOR SISK BLUEGRASS BAND (register) Unwind with live bluegrass for CCPL’s first-ever outdoor Signature Series performance. Those planning to sit together should register as a group. Fort Thomas’ Tower Park Amphitheater, 900 S.
Fort Thomas Ave., Fort Thomas; 7 p.m.; 859-572-5033 or cc-pl.org.
daily admission; $5 members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.
sat 10
GET TO KNOW ROWE WOODS HIKE (register)
FREE CINCINNATI FAMILY’S SUMMER CAMP ADVENTURE FAIR 2021 — OUTSIDE! Families, get ready for summer with us! Browse camp booths (both local and regional), explore hands-on activities, watch performances and enter to win prizes. This year the Fair is outdoors at the Blue Ash Nature Park! Browse camp booths and activities and don’t miss out on this fun and informative event. Blue Ash Recreation Center Nature Walk, 4337 Cooper Road, Blue Ash; 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.; cincinnatifamilymagazine.com/ summer-camp-adventure-fair-2021.
EARTH MONTH FAMILY QUEST (register) Help Mother Nature while journeying through different habitats and completing tasks. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 2 - 4 p.m.; $10 non-members, includes
Take a hike and learn the history and mission of Cincinnati Nature Center; the hike will begin at Krippendorf Lodge and trek through the Upland Trail. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 10 - 11:30 a.m.; $14 non-members, includes daily admission, $5 members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.
FREE SPRING FLING (register) Take a hike and learn the history and mission of Cincinnati Nature Center; the hike will begin at Krippendorf Lodge and trek through the Upland Trail. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 10 - 11:30 a.m.; $14 non-members, includes daily admission, $5 members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.
FREE WINTON WOODS CLEANUP This community cleanup project has been making a difference for over 30 years. For 2021, litter
Earth Day at Pyramid Hill (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.) features hiking and art demos plus the Contemporary Arts Center Spring Family Festival (12 - 3 p.m.) on April 24.
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Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
pickup will include mini-projects with 20 or fewer participants at 11 sites throughout the park. Winton Woods, 10245 Daly Road, Cincinnati; 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.; a valid vehicle permit is required to enter the park; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org.
sun 11 FREE ART ON VINE – HELLO SPRING! Get ready for spring with an array of colorful, beautiful and truly unique wares; families can browse fine art and handmade goods from a variety of local makers at Washington Park. Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati; 12 - 6 p.m.; artonvinecincy.com.
FREE BALLET, BEATLES AND BOWLING
tue 13
wed 14
fri 16
FREE DISCOVERY DAYS: HABITATS & ADAPTATIONS (register)
FREE WESTWOOD OUTSIDE STORY TIME
FREE DRAGONS LOVE TACOS (register)
Grades K - 2 can enjoy hikes spanning through habitats. Choose April 13, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. OR 1 - 3 p.m.; and April 16, 9:30 11:30 a.m. OR 1 - 3 p.m.; Caldwell Nature Preserve, 430 West North Bend Road, Cincinnati; $5; 513761-4313.
FREE FAMILY NIGHT AT HOFBRAUHAUS Family night is the second Tuesday of every month at Hofbrauhaus; receive one free kid’s meal with each adult entrée purchased. Hofbrauhaus, 200 3rd St., Newport; 6 - 8 p.m.; 859-4917200 or hofbrauhausnewport. com.
The Miami Valley Ballet Theatre trades out their toe shoes for bowling shoes and a special performance. This new show is inspired by the music of the Beatles. Pohlman Lanes & Family Entertainment Complex, 954 Pyramid Hill Blvd., Hamilton; 3 - 5 p.m.; 513-795-7694; fittoncenter. org/fitton-outside-the-box.
MEET AND GREET: SNAKES AT CINCY NATURE CENTER
FAMILY DOODLES (register)
FREE TAKE AND MAKE: MASTERPIECE MAKERS (register)
Join in watercolor painting and drawing using shapes during a collaborative class with Abrakadoodle Art. Limited seating, masks mandatory, distancing in place. The Carnegie Center of Columbia Tusculum, 3738 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati; 2 3 p.m.; $23 for family of four; all materials included; abrakadoodle. com/oh-greater-cincinnati-register.
mon 12 FREE TAKE & MAKE: SPRING (register) Families, pick up a super-fun spring-themed take-and-make kit from the library. Available April 12 - 17 while supplies last. BCPL, Boone County, Ky; 10 a.m.; 859342-2665 or bcpl.org.
Meet at the Rowe Woods Visitor Center lobby for this drop-in program about snakes. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Cincinnati; 11 a.m.; included with daily admission, $9 adults, $4 children; free for members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.
Art enthusiasts in grades 1 through 5 can learn all about Vincent Van Gogh and make beautiful art inspired by his work. CCPL- Newport Branch, 901 East 6th St., Newport; 4 p.m.; 859-5725035 or cc-pl.org.
ZOO TROOP SERIES – ANIMAL FAMILIES (register) Toddlers through 8th graders learn how animals are raised to survive. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; 12 p.m.; $65 -$90; see website for specific times; 513-559-7767 or cincinnatizoo. org/education/camps-classes-zootroop./zootroop.
Kiddos 6 and younger can enjoy books, activities and more during this weekly Wednesday story time. Westwood Branch, 3345 Epworth Ave., Cincinnati; 10 - 10:45 a.m.; 513-369-4474 or cincinnatilibrary.org.
thu 15 CHIPPIE’S SENSATIONAL SCIENCE LAB: IT GROWS IN THE GROUND (register + virtual option available) Preschoolers get hands-on during this STEAM-based, plant-themed workshop. Behringer-Crawford Museum, 1600 Montague Road, Covington; 1 p.m.; in-person cost: admission $9 adults, $8 seniors, $5 children, free for members + $3 lab fee for all; virtual cost: $5 non-member/free for members + $3 lab fee for all; 859-491-4003 or bcmuseum.org.
FREE HABITAT HUNT AT CALIFORNIA WOODS (register) Explore the distinct habitat types of California Woods. Children 5 and older can join their grown-ups to search for critters, flowers and more. California Woods Preserve, 5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati; 10 - 11:30 a.m.; 513-231-8678 or explorenature.regfox.com/ habitathunt21.
FREE LITTLE POEMS FOR BIG KIDS (register + virtual option available) April is National Poetry Month. Children in grades 1 through 5 can celebrate with the library by exploring different kinds of poetry. A virtual Zoom option is available. CCPL- Newport Branch, 901 East 6th St., Newport; 1:30 p.m.; 859572-5035 or cc-pl.org.
You didn’t know dragons love to eat tacos, did you? Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park has partnered with several area community center to stream this children’s play on weekends beginning today and continuing through May 16. The professionally filmed play is recommended for ages 3 and older. Reigster for a performance at cincyplay.com/productions/ dragons-love-tacos.
FAMILY SUNSET SAFARI – GOODNIGHT ZOO (register) Join the zoo as they say “good night” to some daytime animals and “good morning” to those starting their night shift. Designed for families with children 5 years and older; one adult must register per family group. Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; 6 - 9 p.m.; $35 - $50; 513-559-7767 or cincinnatizoo.org/education/kidsfamilies/family-nights.
sat 17 PAWPAW PLANTING PROJECT AT LONG BRANCH FARM AND TRAILS (register) Families can learn-by-doing while planting hundreds of baby pawpaw trees by O’Bannon Creek. Participants will receive five pawpaw seeds to take home to grow their own trees. Cincinnati Nature Center - Long Branch Farm & Trails, 6926 Gaynor Road, Goshen; 4 - 5:30 p.m.; $10 non-members, includes daily admission; $5 members; 513-8311711 or cincynature.org.
SPRING TO THE GREENHOUSE (register) Kids can repot baby plants, check out seeds and go for a walk to identify native plants. Helpers get a native plant to take home. Choose morning, 10 - 11:15 a.m. or afternoon, 3 - 4:15 p.m. (Please turn the page)
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THINGS TO DO Cincinnati Nature Center - Rowe Woods Greenhouse, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; $13 non-members, includes daily admission; $8 members; 513-8311711 or cincynature.org.
FREE TALK TO A NATURALIST: LEARN iNATURALIST! Stop by the nature table to ask questions, see nature artifacts and learn how to identify the plants and animals seen in the parks using the iNaturalist app. California Woods Nature Preserve, 5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati; 1 - 3 p.m.; 513-231-8678 or cincinnatiparks.com.
sun 18 NATURE ROYALTY (register) Transform into the ruler of a natural kingdom by creating a scepter, crown and crest adorned with gathered treasures fit for royalty. Cincinnati Nature Center Nature PlayScape, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.; included with daily admission, $9 adults, $4 children; free for members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.
POTTERY PAINTING AT PUZZLE PIECES (register) Create a unique piece of pottery at Puzzle Pieces during this socially-distanced event. Star Glazers will be in the building with a variety of pieces available for painting. Puzzle Pieces, 11912 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati; 2 - 4 p.m.; pieces starting at $9 and up; finished pieces will be available two weeks after completion for pickup; 513-5831874 or puzzlepiecesohio.com.
FREE RAPUNZEL’S HAIRY FAIRY TALE (register) Get ready to giggle! A bevvy of characters will be played by only two actors; watch as they sing back and forth during this hairy fairy tale. This live performance has limited seating and masks are required. The 28 april 2021
Children’s Theatre at The Carnegie Center of Columbia Tusculum, 3738 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati; 1 p.m.; 513-473-5745 or thecarnegiecenterofcolumbiatus. regfox.com/rapunzels-hairy-fairytale
of Hamilton County, 9 a.m.; parks open dawn until dusk; 513-5217275 or greatparks.org.
tue 20
Art demos, guided hikes (1 and 3 p.m.) and the Contemporary Arts Center Spring Family Festival (12 - 3 p.m.). Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum, 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton; 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; 513-868-1234 or pyramidhill. org/art-earth-day.
TOT TUESDAYS: APRIL SHOWERS (register + virtual option available) Children ages 3 to 5 can make a rain-themed craft and hear a story about “liquid sunshine.” Zoom option available. BehringerCrawford Museum, 1600 Montague Road, Covington; 10:30 a.m.; in-person admission: $9 adults, $8 seniors, $5 children, free for members + $1 craft fee for all; virtual admission: $5 nonmember households, free for members + $1 craft fee (families pick up supplies at BC Museum OR supply your own); 859-4914003 or bcmuseum.org.
sat 24 FREE ART AND EARTH DAY
FREE EL DIA DE LOS LIBROS Celebrate El Dia de los Libros/ Ninos with the library during this drive-thru program. There will be stations in the parking lot with crafts, music, free books and more. CCPL- Cold Spring Branch, 3920 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring; 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.; 859-781-6166 or cc-pl.org.
wed 21
FREE GREENUP DAY AT CALIFORNIA WOODS (register)
FREE ADVENTURE CLUB: DIGGING FOR DINOSAURS (register)
Help make California Woods a little greener by assisting Cincinnati Parks staff on projects. Ages 10 and older, with adult, welcome. California Woods Nature Preserve, 5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati; 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.; 513-231-8678 or cincinnatiparks. com.
Uncover fossils during a mock dinosaur dig with the Cincinnati Museum Center. Zoom option available; program designed for children in grades 1 through 5. CCPL- Cold Spring Branch, 3920 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring; 4 p.m.; 859-781-6166 or cc-pl.org.
thu 22 FREE EARTH DAY WILDFLOWER WALK (register) This adult program for celebrating Earth Day explores wildflowers. Caldwell Nature Preserve, 430 West North Bend Road, Cincinnati; 1 - 3 p.m.; 513-7614313.
FREE ENTRY DAY AT GREAT PARKS Explore what nature has to offer without the need of a Great Parks Motor Vehicle permit on select days in 2021. Great Parks
sun 25 FIGHT FOR AIR CLIMB AT GABP (register) Grab a crew and get ready for a fun outdoor stair climb at the 16th annual Fight for Air Climb. This challenge at Great American Ball Park benefits The American Lung Association. Great American Ball Park, 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati; 8:30 a.m.; $35 registration, $100 fundraising minimum; 513-985-3990 or bit. ly/38WxKbX.
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
FREE KIDS MYSTERY FISH CHALLENGE (register) Kids 16 and younger can fish for a trophy. Bring your own equipment; bait available for purchase. Triple Creek, 2700 Buell Road, Cincinnati; 9 - 11 a.m.; valid vehicle pass required to enter park; 513-521-7275 or greatparks. org.
FREE NATIONAL AUDUBON DAY BIRD BINGO CHALLENGE (register) Celebrate the life of John James Audubon, by participating in a bird watching challenge. Parkers Woods, 4500 Langland St., Cincinnati; 12 - 2 p.m.; 513-3216070.
mon 26 FULL MOON WALK (register) Enjoy the full moon and special readings. Recommended for adults and ages 8 and older. Long Branch Farm, 6926 Gaynor Road, Goshen, Oh; 8:30 - 10 p.m.; $10 non-members, includes daily admission; $5 members; 513-8311711 or cincynature.org.
tue 27 DISCOVERY DAYS: ECOLOGY (register) Students in grades 3 to 6 will learn about organisms and ecosystems. Choose from April 27, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m., 1 - 3 p.m.; OR April 30, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m., 1 3 p.m.; Caldwell Nature Preserve, 430 West North Bend Road, Cincinnati; $5 per student; 513761-4313.
thu 29 FREE BOARD GAME TIME @ MILK & BEANS (register) Enjoy a variety of board games during game time. Milk & Beans, 574 Buttermilk Pike, Crescent Springs, KY; 4 - 6:30 p.m.; included with playpass, $6.50 per child; 859-360-0257 or milkandbeans.net.
ENTER TO WIN Win a two week stay at Camp Roosevelt Firebird – a $2,600 value!
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