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May 2020
“Where Every Family Matters.�
PUBLISHER Stewart Day EDITOR IN CHIEF Susan Swindell Day EDITOR Amanda Hayward THINGS TO DO/ ASSOCIATE EDITOR Amanda Ciani GRAPHIC DESIGN DayCom Associates PRODUCTION Tim Henard ACCOUNT MANAGERS Theresa Cicchinelli Kathi Listo DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jonathan McCormack
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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.
Journey through motherhood.
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Mom posts about being a mom and more.
14 The
Mother/Daughter Bond
The most meaningful relationship of a female's life is with her mother. PLUS: Mother's Day gifts just for Mom!
A special report on making homeschooling work for you.
SPECIAL SECTION OUTDOOR
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How to do a virtual pediatrician visit.
COVID-19 is especially worrisome for expecting moms. We've collected answers to your questions.
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SUMMER FUN!
kids' health
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THINGS TO DO
18 In the Middle of It
All, Remember YOU
Self-care is essential during these stressful times because being a mother is essential.
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the little things BY AMANDA HAYWARD
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O
JOURNEY THROUGH MOTHERHOOD
ne of the biggest challenges I had to face during motherhood was breastfeeding for the first time. I saw my friends do it, it seemed so fulfilling and like the ideal way to feed my baby. Forgetting that I was a brand-new, 23-year-old mom, I dove right in. I struggled trying to breastfeed as we moved halfway across the country, and I wasn’t well equipped with the materials I needed to create the experience I had imagined it to be. I was shy about feeding in public — so nervous, I hid in bathroom stalls or the car. How does everyone make this look so easy? What am I doing wrong? I thought. Giving up would mean I failed, right? Nope. When my son was 3 months old, I began pumping, and decided to quit breastfeeding altogether. With my second baby, I was a little more grown up with a different mindset, and I went for it once more. This time, I breastfed her for the whole first year. Did I do better the second time? Also nope. Just different experiences. Different journeys. This moment we are living in right now probably takes the second place trophy for being the hardest part of motherhood. Can we be honest? This time is hard. Parenthood in general is hard. You don’t always hear the daunting pregnancy stories, or see the behind-the-scenes footage on social media. It all looks so happy and effortless. But it’s a very misleading conception. Motherhood is just as hard as it is rewarding, and no, not everything will be picture perfect. Pregnancies are not always flowers and cute baby bumps. During the moments of feeling we should be doing it one way, we should think twice and be proud of the path we are taking. A friend shared true, helpful advice on Facebook that hit home: Don’t try and keep up with what other parents are doing right now, and don’t feel like you have to meet up to any expectations of other homeschooling, working parents. Yes, it’s good to gather ideas and seek help, or acquire some brilliant crafting ideas and incorporate them into your routine, but don’t feel as if you are not doing it right, or you should do it any other way. Do it your way right now and own that. We didn’t choose this life right now, it was thrown at us. Out of the blue, we turned our heads, and it happened. We are teachers and full-time cooks in addition to everything else. This goes for dads, too. This part of the journey may test us. It might make or break us. We’ve gone through pregnancies, labor, potty training, and first days of kindergarten, and now this. Give yourself some grace, Mom. Some days, you may enjoy this time with your family and some days, it won’t be as fun. And that is OK! Our best bet right now is to not try and meet up to any standards and focus on our family and self-care. So here we are on our new journey. Motherhood has led us to another challenging task. Happy Mother’s Day to all of the mamas out there — you are amazing!
EDITOR 4 May 2020
“Where Every Family Matters.”
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WE ASKED:
What has been the hardest part of parenting for you during this crazy pandemic?
“My senior missing out on all of the fun year-end activities, her senior prom and graduation. Such a great disappointment for her, and there’s nothing I can do to help.” Christy Pratt
“My child is always. Touching. Me. Never. Stops. OMG. Going. To. Lose. My. Mind.”
Laura Ann
“Not being able to take our adventurous daughter to the zoo, aquarium and more. She’s been begging us since winter to go to the zoo and we promised her we’d take her. Now this mess.”
Brittany Arnette
“My son spilling grape juice on my new couch.”
Jessica Bramschreiber
“When they all age energy wiggles at the same time and decide it’s time to either run back and forth screaming at the top of their lungs or have a pillow fight in the middle of the living room which always leaves me mad and starts a real fight.”
Tara Kimbrell
Krissy McWhorter
“All of the money I am spending on food!”
“Not being able to let my son spend time with his grandparents. He’s so used to spending time with them while I’m working. We’re missing everybody so much! And my boy is missing out on all of the fun end-of-year preschool activities.”
Melody Kilgore
“Having multiple simultaneous jobs — full-time employee with lots of meetings throughout the day. But I’m counting my blessings because we still have jobs, health insurance, savings, food and a home which is a lot more than some.”
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May 2020
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CINCINNATI NEWS SPECIAL REPORT
BY AMANDA CIANI
D
uring the COVID-19 pandemic, we are all taking on the challenging — yet rewarding — job of teaching children. This territory — unchartered for many — is stressful to navigate, but it is definitely doable. We consulted with experts to create a list of tips to help you get the most out of non-traditional instruction while also maintaining a positive relationship with your kids.
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REATE A WORKPLACE
At school, kids have ownership within much of their daily routine. They sit at a desk and they use a cubby or locker for their things. Katherine Smith, PH.D., School of Art in the college of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning at the University of Cincinnati says this helps kids learn organization and focus. “When teachers are in the classroom, they work hard to organize the physical space of
the room for different types of learning, various activities, and efficient transitions of those activities and supplies,” she says. At home, it is important for kids to feel like they have a place of their own while they are completing their school assignments. “Parents can help their children carve out their own workspace that has a good work surface, lighting and a place for their supplies,” continues Smith. With the proper environment, kids may be ready and willing to start their school day at home.
manage teaching kids, too. Finding the right time for children to complete schoolwork with is a challenge. Take a look at each of your kids' schoolwork and estimate how long it may take them to complete their assignments. Kelly Harper, a local homeschooler of two, shares some of her best advice. “School at home does not take all day, so don't feel like you have to go from 9 - 3:30 and schedule everything,” she says. “Let your kids pick the order of what they do so they feel like they have a little bit of say in the matter.”
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There are obviously some timing obstacles to consider as you adapt to a homeschool approach. Take your time; you may have multiple children in different grades. Many parents are just trying to find a rhythm as they enter strange new circumstances, working from home or out of the home and trying to
One of the benefits of homeschooling is that your kids can do the work when it is convenient. Some may learn best first thing in the morning, while others need some time to wake up and get their day started. “Give yourself grace,” Harper adds. “This isn't something you've necessarily chosen; it's
LLOW FOR FLEXIBILITY
ELP KIDS FIND THEIR GROOVE
(please turn the page)
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
May 2020 7
cincinnati news been chosen for you. Days will not go as planned, and it's OK,” she says.
C
REATE A BASIC DAILY ROUTINE
After finding a “class” time that works for each child's schedule (and yours), try to establish a very basic routine. Work, snack, work, mental break, work, physical break (get moving!), work. You can break up work by subject, or simply put a timer on and work for a set amount of time. Predictability is a helpful tool and being rewarded with a break or snack can be a big motivator. Another tool that can be useful along with a daily routine is a visual reminder checklist. Kids can check items off as they complete them. As your group puts their things away each day, it can help signify the end of the school day — it is incredibly rewarding to pack up and say, “I am done for the day!”
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If you feel like your child is barely treading water when it comes to his schoolwork or if you feel like his workload is too heavy or too light, don’t be afraid to reach out. Teachers and school administration want to be a major resource for you! It is important to ask questions and create a positive, meaningful dialogue with your kids' teachers. Remember: this is new for everyone, we are all learning! Teachers can clarify academic questions, provide tips on getting the work done in a timely manner and just chat with your kids to help motivate and encourage them.
It is impossible to fill someone else’s cup if yours is empty. To be the best parent, teacher, worker, etc., it is important to get good rest, proper nutrition, hydration and exercise. Beech Acres Parenting Center suggests that you prioritize self-care, so you are in a much better position to give of yourself to your children. Remember to be mindful of both you and your child’s mental and physical health during this time.
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E POSITIVE AND HONEST
Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Some schoolwork may be easier for your child versus others, depending on their natural abilities. Remind your children that no one is good at everything, and that both hard work and practice pays off! Focus on the positives and praise each child’s strengths. Beech Acres Parenting Center suggests reminding children how well they are persevering through this unusual time. Be vulnerable and transparent with your children about your feelings because this is such an unusual time. It is OK to admit that you are having a hard day or that you don't "get" something they are working on but that you can research it together. Also, have a discussion about things you miss, people you wish you could see, places you would like to visit, etc. Redirect the conversation to discuss things you are grateful for, activities you can do at home and plans to look forward to.
8 May 2020
Many school guidance counselors are more available than ever before through online video chats or e-mails to kids who may be struggling. Another resource children can utilize when it comes to school work is their peers. Many classes are engaging in virtual chat rooms through apps such as Teams. Ask your child’s teacher if they are OK with your child working with another student. Not only is this a way for your child to bounce ideas off of their classmates, it is also an excellent way for kids to feel connected and bonded with school buddies.
“Where Every Family Matters.”
OCUS ON SELF-CARE
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EACH KIDS TO LOVE LEARNING
It is important for children to get their schoolwork done, but they are also still kids! Make life itself a teacher. By now you are probably loaded with educational resources that interest your child, but use your imagination to expand on subjects. Use the internet, use virtual cameras, use everything. Focus on what you and your children are passionate about! Explore what you enjoy and dig into researching. Remember that experience is the best teacher so try lots of new things. Teach your kids how to follow a recipe; teach them how to do laundry, how to make a grocery list or even something silly like how to do the Cupid Shuffle. Have fun getting to know your kids and teach them how to navigate the world. Today's kids are learning how to manage stress, cope with their emotions, balance “work” and play, the importance of family and so much more. At the end of the day, your kids also learn by watching you. They see how you react to stress, how you manage your time and even how we all ultimately need each other. Remember that watching movies can be a teaching experience and certainly just talking together about a subject. Beyond schoolwork and this moment in time unlike all others, we still need to model patience and kindness. We will all get through this, a little bit smarter, and together.
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“Where Every Family Matters.”
9
kids’ health
BY AMANDA HAYWARD
By Amanda Hayward
Tackling
Virtual Pediatric Visits
TURN THE PAGE FOR FAMILY HEALTH BITS
Be prepared for an online doctor visit and know when it’s time to head to the emergency room.
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or all families, this historic period in time — the pandemic — calls for taking action, and moving forward with the resources we have. Technology is a life-saver for many, and it is now helping us to continue family doctor visits and consultations virtually. But where do you start? According to Betsy A. Drake, M.D., Bon Secours Mercy Health’s System medical director for Evisits and Mercy Health Physicians — Cincinnati’s regional medical director for Primary Care — East/Central, the first step is to simply contact your pediatrician to learn about virtual care options for your child. “They can give you different options for virtual care, such as a telephone call, video visit or e-visit with the doctor,” Drake says. “The office can help you determine what type of visit would be the most helpful for you; they can also walk you through the steps of how to successfully do the visit,” she adds. Depending on your child’s medical condition, it may be safer for him to be seen in-person, but this should be decided by your doctor. Serious medical conditions cannot be diagnosed or treated virtually, but in many cases, Drake says conditions including acute conditions or follow ups can be attended to through your virtual doctor
visit. Of course, in any emergency situation, call 911. Prep For Your Visit Your virtual visit, that is. Treat it like any medical visit: Write down questions in advance, jot down your child’s symptoms, as well as how long they have been occurring, have a list of current medications and allergies, and anything new you think you should share since your child’s last visit. Anything you can do during this nontraditional visit to assist your doctor is helpful. If you are able to check your child’s blood pressure, pulse and vitals, do that, too! The internet can be your best friend, but also your worst enemy. Before your visit, make sure you have your laptop, cell or tablet ready to go, and check your Wi-Fi and internet access. For video visits, make sure your camera is working, and that the mic is on. Being prepared in advance will eliminate annoying glitches and possible dropped calls. Drake suggests you sit in a private place with good lighting and no background noise. Save eating and drinking for after your e-visit, and never attempt a virtual visit while driving. Your E-Visit Now that you’re prepared, here’s what to expect. During a telephone visit, your pediatrician will ask questions about your
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
child’s condition, discuss your concerns about your child, give medical advice and take actions such as ordering tests, medications or referrals. What’s nice about e-visits is the doctor can view your answers from a questionnaire about your child’s health condition and provide advice and feedback right away. “If a medication is deemed appropriate, [your doctor] will send in a prescription to the pharmacy of your choice. In many cases, handouts, such as home exercises or other advice, can be provided as well,” says Drake. Amanda Hayward is editor of this publication and mom of two kids.
BE READY FOR A VIRTUAL VISIT • Make sure your equipment is charged; camera on; mic working, and that your Wi-Fi is working. • Check with your insurance carrier to learn if they will cover a telehealth visit. • Have questions and symptoms ready. • Have pen and paper in order to write down what your pediatrician says. • Be patient and open-minded.
May 2020
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family health
Q&A
WHERE IS THE SAFEST PLACE TO HAVE MY BABY? The safest place to deliver your baby is the hospital. Hospitals are continuing to implement safety precautions for moms, babies, family and clinical staff. ARE PREGNANT WOMEN AT HIGHER RISK FOR COVID-19? Current data says no. It does not appear that pregnant women are more likely to become infected or have more severe symptoms than non-pregnant adults, agrees Lorrie Harris-Sagaribay, MPH and Kirstie Perrotta, MPH, both affiliates of MotherToBe, a service of the nonprofit Organization of Teratology Information Specialists dedicated to providing evidence-based information to mothers, health care professionals and the general public about medications and other exposures during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. IF I HAVE COVID-19 WHILE DELIVERING MY BABY, WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? The infant will be separated from you in order to decrease transmission to the infant. A health care team will speak with you in order to determine what is best for your family. IF I CATCH THE CORONAVIRUS, WILL I GIVE IT TO MY UNBORN BABY? Currently the risk of transmission to a baby in utero is minimal, if any. There is some concern for increased risk of preterm delivery, miscarriage and fetal growth restriction if the mother develops COVID-19 while pregnant. CAN I BREASTFEED IF I AM POSITIVE FOR COVID-19? Data is limited, but COVID-19 has not been found in breastmilk. Breastmilk is protective against multiple illnesses. Speak with your OB-GYN before starting or continuing to breastfeed. SOURCES: TriHealth, MotherToBaby
NEW STUDY: COVID-19 in Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women
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EXPECTING AND COVID-19 Moms everywhere want to know how TO BEST ensure their baby’s safety during the pandemic. Here are some of the most common pregnancy and breastfeeding questions answered.
12 May 2020
“Where Every Family Matters.”
ccording to MotherToBaby.org, a new study conducted by birth defects research experts from the non-profit Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS) will examine the shortand long-term effects of COVID-19 in pregnancy and breastfeeding. The study — which is seeking volunteers — will consist of phone calls over the course of each volunteers’ pregnancies and post-delivery, and/or breast milk samples. It also includes the release of medical records related to pregnancy and infant development. The study is open to pregnant and breastfeeding women in the U.S. and Canada with known or suspected COVID-19 infection. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers can enroll in the study at mothertobaby.org/join-study or by calling the MotherToBaby Pregnancy Studies at 877-311-8972.
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13
Relationships
BY AMANDA HAYWARD
The bond you share with your daughter carries its own unique weight, trials and joys as you grow together. If the going gets rough, realize that no matter what, you are the most important female in your girl’s life.
THE MOTHER/DAUG 14 May 2020
“Where Every Family Matters.”
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our relationship with your daughter is unique. The hugs, the fights, the struggles, expectations and misunderstandings are exclusive, and understanding and approaching these differences positively can help you to continue a strong and healthy connection. “We know the maternal bond with a child is extremely important, and it starts even before birth,” says Tracy S. Cummings, M.D., psychiatrist at the Lindner Center of HOPE and chief of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. “While many different types of caregiving scenarios can flourish, you will see a great deal of literature focusing on mother-child relationships. For better or worse, there tends to be a particularly sentimental (and less scientific) view of the relationship between a mother and a daughter in our society that can cause us to have unrealistic expectations about what the relationship should be like.” You can’t expect your relationship to be picture perfect, but according to Cummings, it’s completely natural for a mom to fantasize about her future with all of her children. And when she has a little girl on the way, it’s easy to imagine stereotypical scenarios such as tackling pubertal changes, navigating first loves and heartbreaks, shopping for the one-and-only wedding dress and believe it or not, grandkids. “These can start even while the child is merely a black-and-white profile on an ultrasound picture,” continues Cummings. “And while it is important for us to be open to these valuable moments, it is also necessary for us not to let our hopes for ‘ideal’ situations cause us to miss the real-life moments of connection and intimacy that take place between a mother and daughter on a daily basis.” THE BOND “Mom understands me,” “Mom knows best,” — sound familiar? This helps define the bond girls have developed with their moms generation after generation. It doesn’t take scientific research to tell us this, it’s just understood, according to Heather Tietjen-Mooney LISW-S, psychotherapist and a behavioral health supervisor at The Children’s Home of Cincinnati. “Mothers understand daughters not only because we’ve walked a mile in their shoes,” says Tietjen-Mooney, “but because our brain similarities allow us to access and share a unique emotional connectedness with our daughters.” You gaze at her and think, “I made that tiny human”— it’s gratifying. Deep down, we
all want the best for all of our kids, and we can’t help but be proud when they achieve goals we had secretly imagined in our dreams. According to Cummings, there is a very fine line we should follow in order to keep that bond and trust. It’s not about what we want, it’s about our kids’ wants, which can sometimes be lost. Generational differences will happen and just need to be accepted rather than pushed aside with “Back in my day,” comments and held to standards that might reflect more what mom wants rather than the kids. “Parents have to walk the fine line of introducing their children to various opportunities in the world, while still allowing them space to discover their own identities,” says Cummings. “When a mother and child can see each other as unique and vital members of a partnership, the differences can be celebrated.” AGES AND STAGES There will come a time when your little princess is no longer dependent on you. The same little girl who once needed you more than anything and then mocked your every move will move on in a blink. Picking out her prom dress, you may no longer fit in the equation. Her peers “come first” and it will seem like she no longer needs you. It’s life and it cycles; it’s how we cope and understand these changes that will keep her trust in you. “Commonly teens will start to separate from their families as they test out their individual ideas and emerging identities,” says Cummings. “There may be moments when the tween or teen struggles to balance the ongoing need for nurturing guidance with the desire for independence.” This is hard for us. This isn’t a moment we can easily brush off and move on from. Seeking out advice from friends who have “been through it” with their girl can help you understand what is going on in your not-so-little-girl’s developing brain. You may ask yourself, “What did I do wrong?” The truth is, you did nothing “wrong.” Your girl is going through identity and social changes, according to Cummings. Be there for her, and take time to sit and chat so you stay connected. The shocking truth is, during these life changes, your daughter needs you the most, Tietjen-Mooney says. “We are on the sidelines, and often put there by our daughters. So that push and pull emerges,” she says. “Be patient. They hear you. They still value your wisdom; they simply won’t acknowledge it at this stage. Stay close to the
empathic feelings that unite, it strengthens the bond building a sturdy foundation.” Once the teenage years subside, it is common for there to be a positive turnaround as your stubborn teenage girl grows to be a young adult. “There may be moments when the tween or teen struggles to balance the ongoing need for nurturing guidance with the desire for independence,” says Cummings. “These moments can be hard for a mother to watch unfold; they can also be magical as she marvels at the young adult who is blossoming before her.” THE OBSTACLES Blink. She is testing your patience and dressing outrageously. How you react to her decisions will impact your relationship. The more you try to control or inject yourself in her life, the more likely your relationship will dwindle. “These reactions create distance and inhibit open, healthy communication which is paramount in maintaining that bond,” explains Tietjen-Mooney. “The trick is, recognizing when we, (moms) have damaged or distanced our daughter’s through our reactions or parenting approaches. Often times these obstacles are created unintentionally, and it is a gradual erosion of the relationship.” So how do you fix it? Patience and understanding is a start, and it won’t always be smooth sailing. If you feel you are headed down a rocky path, Tietjen-Mooney suggests circling back around to the core of the problem, and trying again. “Take a second to reflect on your reaction, and why you reacted,” she says. “Sometimes it stems from the way we were parented, or it stems from a fear or concern, but executed in a damaging way. Circling back around and owning it, coming at it with a calmer more inclusive approach is oftentimes enough to heal the wound, removing a potential obstacle.” If your relationship gets off track, go back to the basics. Make an effort to spend time together and to reconnect in ways you both can enjoy. Moms have to take the lead here — they are oldest, afterall. If your issues seem insurmountable, reach out to a therapist who can help you bridge the gaps in your communication. Aim to listen and communicate. Your daughter is growing and may be confused by her feelings and inability to express herself. Although you may not have all the answers, you can model ways to work through the situation at hand.
UGHTER BOND
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May 2020 15
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THE QUEENS’ JEWELS thequeensjewels.net $23.50 - $25.50 Mom can enjoy her favorite adult beverage in a custommade jeweled wine or champagne glass! Choose from more than 90 designs (10 collections) including jeweled multi-stone hearts, crowns, floral, diamond, animal, coastal and more. (We are giving away two glasses!)
EAT YOUR WORDS CUSTOM COOKIES eatyourwordscookies.com $26 Can’t be with Mom physically? Have love-filled custom cookies delivered to her doorstep! Sweet sugar cookies made from scratch, each message cookie box has 10 - 20 cookies decorated with icing; send a thoughtful “I love you Mom” set of cookies; or create your own message; choose from regular or gluten-free and colorful icing flavors. (We are giving away one cookie box!)
THE SPUNKY STORK spunkystork.com $15 - $21 for a set
FRAME IT EASY frameiteasy.com Prices vary Design your own frame with an online DIY custom frame designer and drop in your digital photos or art. It will arrive at your doorstep framed and ready to hang on the wall; order any frame size (as small as 5”x5” up to 42”x62”) in increments of 1/16th of an inch. (We are giving away one 8x10!)
OH BABY BOXES ohbabyboxes.com; $35.99+ The new mama gets six to eight goodies in each box ranging from allnatural and organic wellness, skincare, maternity essentials, fashion and more! Subscriptions from a one to six months. (We are giving away one subscription box!)
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“Where Every Family Matters.”
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Try on some cute, matching clothes with your kids! Organic and non-toxic, choose from cotton bodysuits, tees and tanks with clever sayings. Try out matching sets including, “You Are My Sunshine/My Only Sunshine,” “Unicorn Trainer/Unicorn in Training,” “Queen Bee/Busy Bee” and many more! (We are giving away one Big & Little Set of two, or any two Baby/Kids item!)
WASH-N-GO BUNDLE ecoslay.com; $42 Handmade hair products for the nourishment your locks need. Orange Marmalade has flaxseed and agave nectar extract, aloe vera juice and sweet orange essential oil. (We are giving away a Wash Day Bundle: Orange Marmalade, Peppermint Schnapps hair wash and Banana Cream deep conditioner!)
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Just You parenting
An entire weekend at home with your family sounds fabulous until that weekend turns into ... months. The truth is, the quarantine has been stressful. Your finger and toe nails and mind have taken a beating. But remember: “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” Here’s a gentle reminder to block out time for yourself each day.
AFTERALL, YOUR JOB IS ESSENTIAL.
In the Middle of it All,
REMEMBER YOU
AT-HOME WORKOUTS Local mom and personal trainer, Natalie Barger, keeps her, “morning routine and workout time the same every day.” She also pampers herself by, “taking a midday drive each day by herself and listens to music.” For workout ideas, check her out on Instagram at @natalieBhealthyandfit or on Facebook at Mindful Muscle LLC. 18 May 2020
CONNECT WITH FRIENDS
LISTEN TO A PODCAST
“A good friend is a connection to life – a tie to the past, a road to the future, the key to sanity in a totally insane world.”
Listen to a podcast through your iPhone’s built-in Apple Podcast app or your Android’s Google Podcasts app. There are literally thousands of podcasts you can listen to, so ask your friends and search on Google for podcasts related to your interests and hobbies and get to it! Need a little inspiration? Here are eight amazing podcasts to
– Lois Wyse Schedule a daily or weekly time to Zoom your family and friends, after the kids are settled down or in bed. Schedule a virtual happy hour with your besties, too.
“Where Every Family Matters.”
help you become more of who you want to be! 1) Almost Thirty 2) Wide Open with Tony Gonzalez 3) Let It Out 4) Detail Therapy 5) The Chalene Show 6) Happier with Gretchen Rubin 7) Dear Sugars 8) Love Life with Matthew Hussey
BEACHY BOOKS & MORE TO KICK OFF YOUR SUMMER READING
J
in 120 countries). In recent years she’s churned out stand-alone titles like “The Good Daughter.” The book gets off to a pulse-racing start with a mall shooting. Andy soon learns that her mother is not who she pretends to be. (William Morrow, $27.99). — JB
ust about now you either want a little mindless fluff or something
Cecilia Fitzpatrick, mother of three, loving wife, and a fixture in her community, lives a comfortable life, until she stumbles upon a letter that upends her world. On the envelope are the words “Cecila, if you’re reading this, then I’ve died,” written by her husband, who is still very much alive. (Berkley, $16). — PM WHEN IT HAPPENS TO YOU By Molly Ringwald
of substance because you’ve had enough of the quarantine. Chances are you’re also behind on reading.
(Yes, that Molly Ringwald). This trio of stories contains the frailties and complexities of human nature, the intense bonds of family, and the complicated, charged dynamics of marriage. (Harper Collins, $18.97). — PM
Here are notable books that can provide true escapism for you. BY INVITATION ONLY By Dorothea Benton Frank The queen of the saltsprayed Lowcountry tale (“Sullivan’s Island,” etc.) has done it again. Reading Frank is like spending time with a favorite friend who’s witty and a bit crass and has got to tell you every tidbit. In this, her 19th novel, count on at least one family’s life blowing up and a story brimming with snappy dialogue that always rings true. (William Morrow, $27.99). — JB
ALL WE EVER WANTED By Emily Giffin The worldwide best-selling author knows how to get under your skin with relatable characters wrestling with believable situations. Here, a scandal involves high school students and cellphone misuse. A perfectly crafted page-turner that unfolds in the voices of three characters including a 16-year-old girl. Very timely in this #MeToo movement. (Ballantine, $28). — JB
BEACH HOUSE REUNION By Mary Alice Monroe Monroe comes through swimmingly with another title in her “Beach House” series featuring the Rutledge family of Charleston. This story centers on Linnea, out of college but “at sea,” and her Aunt Cara, widowed too soon. They spend a summer together at Primrose Cottage on the Isle of Palms while forging new paths, dealing with family drama and dysfunction. Of course, each woman will take steps toward romance. (Gallery Books, $26). — JB
THE HUSBAND’S SECRET By Liane Moriarty
STILL LIFE WITH BREADCRUMBS By Anna Quindlen
Books selections reviewed by Julie Bookman and Pam Moore
PIECES OF HER By Karin Slaughter
Rebecca Winters is a divorced photographer whose career peaked decades ago. With a grown son needing occasional financial help, an aging mother to care for, and a dwindling income, Winters is desperate to make ends meet. (Random House, $14.88). — PM
Sink down with Slaughter, one of the world’s top crime writers (35 million books sold cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
May 2020 19
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MAY
BY AMANDA CIANI
THINGS TO DO Summer — and How! 22 BACKYARD CAMPING, OUTOOR GAMES Have a scavenger hunt, go stargazing & lots more.
26 VISIT 20 LOCAL RESOURCES ONLINE Virtual innovations to help beef up your kids’ summer learning.
28 SUBSCRIPTION BOXES FOR KIDS Editor’s picks for imaginative bundles to your doorstep.
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et your mason jars ready! According to the Farmer’s Almanac, fireflies will start popping up toward the end of the month. World’s best evening activity for kids!
DEAR READERS:
Cincinnati Family hopes to bring you our
complete award-winning THINGS TO DO family calendar for the June, 2020 issue. Stay tuned on Facebook for daily updates and more! cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
May 2020 21
things to do
OUTDOOR FUN! Get Out Into the Wild This Month
S
ummer means kids will be outside a lot. That’s great! And let’em camp outside, too. Simply gather basic camping supplies and aim to make it just like camping in the wilderness. If you don’t have a backyard, go ahead and do this in your family room. The kids will remember it for years.
BASIC CAMPING SUPPLIES: Tent, flashlights, sleeping bags and pillows, air mattress, water and snacks, camping activities.
SHOW THEM HOW TO STARGAZE Use the free SkyView app and point your phone or tablet at the sky. The app will detect constellations and planets and overlay them on your screen.
CAMPING GAMES MOSQUITO BITES Give each child a sheet of dot stickers preferably red, like mosquito bites. As the evening progresses, try to get rid of your stickers by giving the others players “mosquito bites.” Do this by secretly placing stickers on other players. But beware! If you get caught, you have to keep your sticker and receive another one from the person who caught you. The first player to get rid of his sheet of stickers wins the game.
FLASHLIGHT TAG This is a fun nighttime game once darkness falls. Give the tagger a flashlight and play tag as you normally would, except the tagger uses the light of the flashlight to “tag” people. Once a player is “hit” with the light he is out. Play continues until everyone has been caught.
GLOW STICK RING TOSS Each player gets five glow stick rings — glow necklaces or bracelets work well. Dig and secure a stick in the dirt so it’s sticking up out of the ground. Take turns tossing the glow stick rings, aiming to get them around the stick.
SQUIRT GUN RACES Line up empty plastic drinking cups along the edge of the picnic table. Fill a squirt gun with water. Squirt the cups until they fall off the edge of the table. You can play with multiple players to see who can knock the most cups off the table. You can also time each player to see who can knock all the cups off the table in the fastest time.
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May 2020
“Where Every Family Matters.”
SKIN SAFE
CLASSIC YARD GAMES MOTHER, MAY I? Ages 5+ Choose a “Mother” who grants or denies individual player requests. The goal is for players to make it from the opposite side of the yard (or room) to the mother. All players stand on a starting line side by side. “Mother” stands facing them all, many feet or yards away. “Mother” tells each player how to advance once by one: “Jenny, take three babysteps forward!” The player MUST ask, “Mother, may I?” before following through. If a player forgets to ask, they must go back to the finish line. “Mother” can also send players in the opposite direction if she pleases. Commands can include different kinds of steps: baby steps, giant steps, spinning steps, etc. Play continues until a player reaches “Mother,” tags him or her, becoming the new “Mother” and play resumes.
RED LIGHT, GREEN LIGHT Ages 3+ One person is “It” (i.e., the “traffic light” who stands apart from other players, facing them). When “It” calls out, “Green light!” he turns away from the players and the players start moving toward him. They have to stop when he whirls around and cries, “Red light!” All players must remain frozen until the green light is given again. Play continues until someone reaches “It” and tags him. The winner becomes the new “It” and play resumes again.
O
f course, with kids being outside, be sure to be prepared with firstaid supplies. And always apply sunscreen on kids!
A LITTLE BUBBLY 1 BYONE AUTOMATIC BUBBLE BLOWER $42.99 on Amazon.com Have a bubble party with the entire family. Use batteries or wall power.
OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT! Have your own outside movie night! Fun Flicks Outdoor Movies rents screens and projectors for home use and more. Call 330-904-6062 or visit funflicks.com/ohio-outdoor-movies to learn more.
• Follow the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) guidelines: Use at least an SPF 15 and apply it at least 30 minutes before exposure. Reapply every two to three hours. Keep babies out of direct sunlight — an extra pop-up tent is handy for keeping Baby in the shade. • Guard against insect bites by using repellents containing DEET. The AAP says to only apply it once a day on older kids — do not use on ages 2 months and younger. Apply it after the sunscreen. You can also use insect-repelling bracelets. • Poison ivy, oak and sumac are prevalent in summer. As the old adage says, “Leaves of three, leave them be.” If your child makes contact, wash his skin with soap and water for 10 minutes.
WATER PLAY! Little ones will LOVE being outside for
NATURE SCAVENGER HUNT Ages 5+
water play and you don’t really need all
Print a nature scavenger hunt downloaded from the internet for each player. Head outside and have each player look for each item on the sheet, checking it off as they go. First player to check all the boxes wins! Download from freekidscrafts.com.
play with small plastic animals and more
of the fancy accessories that come with some of the available tables. Kids can in their water table — let them use their imaginations! This Little Tikes Frog Pond Water Table is available on Amazon for $34.
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
May 2020 23
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.
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May 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 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!
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!
“Where Every Family Matters.”
Star Glazers
Cincy Stem Lab
Summer Circus Arts Camps presented by My Nose Turns Red Youth Circus
CINSAM Summer Camp
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!
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
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. 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.
SPORTS/FITNESS Life Time Fitness
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.
Children’s Meeting House
The Little Gym of Mason
Cincinnati Museum Center
TRADITIONAL
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. 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.
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.
SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY Camp Invention
campinvention.org 800-968-4332 Imaginations get their rocket fuel at Camp Invention! This summer’s all-new curriculum allows children in grades K - 6 to experience real-world problem solving and creative thinking as they transform a distant exoplanet, take risks as future entrepreneurs, blast rockets and rubber chickens, and wire a circuit to create their own Spy Gadget Alarm Box! Local educators lead a week of hands-on activities that will launch your child’s imagination. Discounts available, register today!
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.
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 camps and more in the directories on our website cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
May 2020
25
things to do
20 LOCAL
ONLINE RESOURCES Until social distancing measures begin to loosen up, many of our local museums and more remain closed. Take the kids for a visit with our virtual guide!
The Cincinnati Museum Center keeps learning going with weekly programming online. 26
May 2020
“Where Every Family Matters.�
1) BEHRINGER-CRAWFORD MUSEUM Visitors might not be able to explore the BC Museum in person, but they can make tons of discoveries during a 3D Virtual tour of the museum’s four floors. Families can also head to the Behringer-Crawford Museum’s YouTube page for some educational entertainment at youtube. com/user/bcmuseum/videos.
2) BLUE MANATEE LITERACY PROJECT ONLINE STORYTIMES
Beloved Tuesday and Thursday 10 a.m. story times are heading online via BMLP’s Facebook and Instagram pages at facebook.com/bluemanateebooks and instagram.com/bluemanateebooks.
3) CHAI TOTS EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
From Latke Stacking to Mitzvah Matching, there are plenty of great games and kid-friendly Jewish videos available at chaitots.com/child-resources.
4) CINCINNATI ART MUSEUM: CAM CONNECT
Get creative with CAM Connect, a cool new public Facebook group for art enthusiasts. This page is dedicated to all things Cincinnati Art Museum including tasty recipes from the Terrace Cafe, kids yoga and CAMDo, a family-friendly, artmaking video with Alex from the Rosenthal Education Center (Fridays at 2 p.m.). Learn more at facebook.com/groups/ CAMconnect.
5) CINCINNATI BALLET
Print coloring pages, crossword puzzles, word searches and also learn dozens of dance moves! Stay connected and embrace dances healing powers at cballet. org/cb-at-home.
6) CINCINNATI MUSEUM CENTER
Keep learning with CMC! Weekly programming includes Wonder Zone experiments (Mondays at 11 a.m., Fridays at 2 p.m.), meeting museum curators live (Tuesdays at 11 a.m.), Story Tree Time (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) and STEM Girls programming (Thursdays at 11 a.m.). Check out daily programming on Cincinnati Museum Center’s Facebook page at facebook.com/cincymuseum. To browse past CMC videos, visit youtube. com/user/museumcenter11.
7) CINCINNATI OBSERVATORY
Look to the sky for inspiration and also some education, too! With space activities, videos, quizzes and other resources, the observatory’s online resources are out-of-this-world! Learn more at cincinnatiobservatory.org.
8) CINCINNATI ZOO AND BOTANICAL GARDEN: HOME SAFARI LIVE
Meet amazing animals and their cool keepers during these daily chats, then discover at-home activities such as obstacle courses, quizzes, art projects, games and more; daily at 3 p.m. on the zoo’s Facebook page: facebook.com/ cincinnatizoo. To check out past home safari videos and activity ideas, head to the zoo’s website at cincinnatizoo.org/ home-safari-recources.
9) CLIFTON CULTURAL ARTS CENTER
Looking to learn some new dance moves? Feeling creative while being cooped up? CCACMakes has plenty of ideas for families to dance and create recycled crafts together. Get inspired at cliftonculturalarts.org/classes/ccacmakesonline. CCAC has also created printable coloring pages of Cincy landmarks, available at cliftonculturalarts.org/onlineresources-color-clifton-with-ccac.
10) CONTEMPORARY ARTS CENTER
Enjoy the CAC from home; Thursday Art Play craft ideas and lots more are now available on the Contemporary Arts Center’s Facebook page at facebook.com/ cincycac.
11) GREATER CINCINNATI STEM COLLABORATIVE
Get learning and playing with STEMbased experiments, challenges, games and activities from the Greater Cincinnati STEM Collaborative at facebook.com/ greatercincinnatistemcollaborative.
12) GREAT PARKS OF HAMILTON COUNTY: PARKS @ HOME
The trails are still open and Ohio families are encouraged to responsibly hit the trails to get some fresh air! For those who can’t make it to the parks, find tons of great resources including activity ideas, craft videos and so much more at Great Parks @ Home! Learn more at blog.greatparks. org/category/parks-at-home.
13) JOSEPH-BETH BOOKSELLERS
Joseph-Beth’s new josephbeth.com website can help families by offering workbook, flash card and book deliveries, but JB also provides virtual story times Monday, Wednesday and Fridays at 11 a.m. on their Facebook page at facebook.com/ JosephBethCincy.
14) KIDS FIRST SPORTS
Get dancing, work up a sweat with a work out, learn new physical skills or try out tumbling; kids can get active with daily Kids First Sport’s Facebook videos at facebook.com/kidsfirstsports. cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
15) LINTON MUSIC PEANUT BUTTER AND JAM: MUSICAL MORNINGS
Enjoy energetic live music videos, and get kids moving and grooving, too. Daily at 10 a.m. at facebook.com/pbjsessions.
16) METROPARKS OF BUTLER COUNTY
The MetroParks are open for Ohio residents to explore; families can enjoy hiking and biking at the parks responsibly! If you can’t make it to the park, simply log off, shut down and get outside with tips from MetroParks. The MetroParks Facebook page is full of craft and activity ideas. Head to facebook.com/metroparks.
17) TAFT MUSEUM OF ART
Art is just a click away with Taft’s amazing offerings including Sunday Family Fundays sponsored by Cincinnati Family, Monday Virtual Studios, Wednesday Taft Chats and Friday Taft Trivia. Follow along on their Facebook page at facebook.com/ taftmuseum and Instagram at instagram. com/taftmuseum.
18) THE ARTSCONNECT SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP Get connected to awesome art projects with The ArtsConnect; watch videos and enjoy art class all from the comfort of your home at facebook.com/ theartsconnect and youtube.com/channel/ UC_5MGf2tayR6oz1fGOZxNJA.
19) THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI: TCT EVERYWHERE
TCT is now everywhere with the launch of this amazing new online resource. TCT Everywhere features three entire shows available on YouTube (Sleeping Beauty; Casper: The Friendly Musical; and Suffragettes: With Liberty and Voting For All), contests, podcasts, lessons, crafts, games and so much more. As TCT says, “During uncertain times, we can still rely on theatre!” Visit thechildrenstheatre. com/2020/03/tct-everywhere for more information.
20) THE PUBLIC LIBRARY OF CINCINNATI AND HAMILTON COUNTY
The library is a treasure trove of resources for families at home. Families can download eBooks, audiobooks, stream movies or music and even access online databases through the eBranch at cincinnatilibrary.org/eBranch. Families can also enjoy cool content such as their daily Storytime at Home Videos on the library’s YouTube page at youtube.com/ user/CincinnatiLibrary/featured.
May 2020 27
things to do
KID
Your kids will love it when the mailman delivers their special packages!
subscription
BOXES
Kids Night in Box
(editor’s picks)
BAKETIVITY
S
ubscription boxes offer themed fun at varying time intervals, with many having one-time shipment options (perfect for gifting!) or even
monthly packages to keep the excitement going all yearlong. Whether your child enjoys baking, crafts or science, there are subscription boxes for every child’s interests. Snag a subscription box for your child and enjoy looking forward to an exciting package, or helping to brighten a loved one’s day by gifting them a box full of goodies. Check out these boxes that are sure to make being home a little bit more exciting!
Kiwi Crate
KIDS NIGHT IN BOX
baketivity.com
kidsnightinbox.com
Spend time in the kitchen together making memories and baking up something tasty! Kids will love mixing pre-measured ingredients and decorating adorable desserts. Order a one-time kit or have yummy recipes and ingredients delivered to your door monthly, all you have to do is add the perishables and creativity. One-, three-, six- or 12-month subscriptions; $32.95 monthly / $92.85 quarterly / $175 for six months / $311.40 for a year.
Bring your family together with a fun night in! Each box includes activities like books, music and a tasty treat. Inspired by real mom adventures, these boxes have exciting monthly themes to teach kids life lessons like sportsmanship, compassion, perseverance and growth. One-, three-, six- or 12-month subscriptions; $41.99 monthly / $120 quarterly / $239 for six months / $464 for a year.
KIWI BOXES
thepreschoolbox.com
kiwico.com
These award-winning boxes earn high marks for the quality ideas and items inside. Notable is the Koala Crate for preschoolers (ages 3 - 4) which includes colorful engaging projects just right for developing fine motor skills. The Kiwi Crate (ages 5 - 8) extends projects into science, art and engineering. Cost is $20 per month.
THE PRESCHOOL BOX Full of educational games, stickers and books each month, this is the perfect subscription box for eager little learners. Tots will be busy for hours while learning letters, numbers, colors, shapes and so much more. One-, three-, six- or 12-month subscriptions; $32.95 monthly / $94.95 quarterly / $184.95 for six months / $349.95 for a year.
Baketivity
28
May 2020
“Where Every Family Matters.”
The Preschool Box
Cincinnati Family Magazine’s
4th Annual
A FREE family-fun music festival for all ages!
Benefiting COMMON GROUND, an all-inclusive park coming to Mason!
- Crafts - Giveaways
- Live music Blankets, lawn chairs & well-behaved dogs are welcome!
- Shopping - Pet Adoptions
August 9th 2020
- Food - & More!
1-5 p.m.
COTTELL PARK DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP
MASON, OH
www.cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
Thanks to our Cause Driven Members, child care is being provided to essential employees, meals are being served and senior citizens’ needs are being met. MyY.org YMCA OF GREATER CINCINNATI
513.362.9622