Cincinnati Family Magazine Sept 2011 by Day Communications/DayCom Media

family

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com September 2011

CINCINNATI

AWARD-WINNING | INFORMATIVE | TRUSTED

smart from the start!

MAKE PLAYTIME learning time

Ohio’s TOP

LIKE US ON

TEACHERS

on what Works Best in School

PLUS: 2011

SMARTLIST

Join us & other readers on facebook for MOM TALK!

Find ENRICHMENT & FUN in our FALL ACTIVITY & AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS on page 25. cfcvSept.indd 1

8/17/11 3:07 PM

YOUR CHILD can

Thrive

Online public schooling means individualized learning for every student. Often, a one-to-one approach is what it takes to realize a child’s innermost possibilities. As the leader in K–12 online education, K12 offers tuition-free, online public schooling that adapts to fit every child.  Innovative, proven curriculum  Passionate, Ohio-licensed teachers  Flexible, individualized learning It’s the choice between a child trying to fit the school, or a school that fits your child. K12 programs are available statewide for grades K–12 through Ohio Virtual Academy.

We’re still accepting applications for the 2011–2012 school year! Visit us online for enrollment information and a complete list of upcoming events, including Online Info Sessions you can join from the convenience of your own home.

VISIT K12.COM/OH CALL 866.339.9074

coverads0911.indd 2

*Al CH up su fo el m DI

8/17/11 3:08 PM

Make a Difference in Your Child’s Education

TODAY! • • Caring Qualified Teachers • Books and Supplies • Computer, Printer and Copier • Personal Education for All Students • Bully Free, At Home Environment • Flexibility in Daily Routine •

Enrolling Now for 2011 -2012

Call ahead for Appointment or Information

CYBER 1-866-OH( 1 - 8 6 6 - 6 4 2 - 9 2 3 7 ) Visit our website: www.go2boss.com

CF 01-03 (TOC).indd 1

8/17/11 3:10 PM

TGS

conSiGnmenT

SAle!

puBlic SAle DATeS Saturday, September 10 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Sunday, September 11 11:00 am - 6:00 pm Quality name brand items for Fall & Winter for children sizes infant through size 8. Name brands include: Gap, Gymboree, Kellyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kids, Strasburg, Abercrombie, Justice, Janie & Jack, Mini Boden, Hanna Anderson and many more! Do you want to be a consignor at our Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sale? Make $$$ from discarded clothes, toys, books, furniture and equipment. Shop before the public opening! You will receive a pass to the presale that is for consignors only on Friday, Sept. 9th at 6:30 pm. (Please note: One adult per pass. No children under 10 at the presale. Bring their measurements with you!) Advertising, location and business hassles are taken care of for you! You will be paid 75% of your selling price. (Minus a $10.00 participation fee.) Your profits will be mailed September 23rd. For more information contact Erica.Sager@ TheGardnerSchool.com or call 513-985-9444.

The Gardner School is an award-winning academically focused preschool for ages 6 weeks to Private Kindergarten.

Ask About our PrivAte kindergArten!

Thank you Cincinnati families for voting us your #1 child care 3 years in a row!

now AccepTinG fAll enrollmenT! www.TheGardnerSchool.com The Gardner School of Blue Ash 9920 Carver Road Cincinnati, OH 45242 (513) 985-9444

TGS_CinnFamilyFullpg_8-11.indd 3 CF 01-03 (TOC).indd 2

7/6/11 2:37:37 PM 8/17/11 3:11 PM

g s

:37:37 PM

family

CINCINNATI

COMPANY Publisher Stewart Day Editor-in-Chief Susan Swindell Day Editor/Calendar Editor Sherry Hang Managing Editor Kiera Ashford Founding Publisher Dan Swensson Production Director Tim Henard

12 Creative Activities for Preschoolers

Graphic Design Ashford and Day Contributing Writers Valerie Allen

Engaging your child’s imagination before formal education lays the groundwork for success.

Account Managers Ginny Corsini Michael Nail Amy Seifert Distribution Distributech Distribution Manager Jonathan McCormack

ur 3 w!

SEPTEMBER 2011

Like us on Facebook at Cincinnati Family Magazine

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

THIS PUBLICATION AUDITED BY

CIRCULATION VERIFICATION

C O U N C I L

CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is published monthly by DAYCOM MEDIA, INC. Although every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of published material, DAYCOM MEDIA cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. Editorial and business offices are located at 10945 Reed Hartman Hwy., Ste 221, Cincinnati, OH 45242. The phone number is 513-2520077; fax is 513-252-0081. Email to: sherryh@ daycommail.com. CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is copyright © 2011 by DayCom Media, Inc., a member of The Family Magazine Syndicate. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

ON THE COVER: Amara, photographed by Brooke Rainey.

Above & Beyond: Ohio’s Top Teachers on Reaching Kids

2011 smart list Enrich your child’s learning with local resources.

The “write” stuff.

feedback

cincinnati news

What works in the classroom ... and what no longer does, too.

editor’s note

Share with us on Facebook, send letters, follow our blogs and comments, too. The ALL-NEW cincinnatifamilymagazine.com, Cincinnati Young People’s Theatre prep program, giveaways and more.

It’s dancey, dance time with Yo Gabba Gabba plus lots more fun events this month.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING 25 Fall Activities and After-School Programs

kids’ health

28 Party Page

Give kids a healthy breakfast!

40 Market Place

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 01-03 (TOC).indd 3

THE CALENDAR

September 2011 3

8/17/11 3:11 PM

FROM THE EDITOR

Parent Coaching can help move your family ahead.

B Y S U S A N S W I N D E L L D AY

Parent Coaches help with discipline, child development, resilience, co-parenting, conflict and more!

Mention this ad to get 10% off Coaching.

513.231.6630

BeechAcres.org

the “write” stuff?

decided to cold test my middle schooler’s writing abilities. Granted we’d been off all summer, but it didn’t seem that I was asking too much of my soon-to-be-seventh-grader. Just a one-page review of the book he’d just finished, and a bit of structure to show that he knows a beginning, middle and end. Disaster. My boy had no starting point, no idea where to begin, no structure. And he’s in the top third of his class. Why? What’s going on? I know schools prioritize math and science, but that’s not what will get my boy in the door for a job interview one day. His cover letter and follow up call will ... or won’t. A couple of years ago at our parent orientation as the new school year began, I was one of the few to raise my hand with a question. I was sitting in my older boy’s then-eighth-grade English class for the 10-minutes we were given on our evening schedule. (I’m a writer and business owner and see all kinds of writing submitted daily. When writers are looking to submit a story, they always provide a “Lead” to transition into their submission. The lead itself tells me if the writer can write and if I should bother to continue reading. But writing a cover letter for a resumé is another thing entirely. You’ve GOT to be able to communicate clearly, intelligently, both orally and via your writing ability. And I don’t even want to think about college essays. Our kids will be on the big horrendous job search one day. Or maybe YOU are today. Back to my question at orientation ... the question I asked because I’m a writer. “Yes?” the teacher asked. I stammered something like, “I am concerned about my son’s writing ability ... I mean, will you be working on structure with them and clarity? Essays and such?” She told me the kids would have a large paper due at the end of the year and that they would continue working on grammar, but that really they would be doing a lot more reading. I was hoping to hear, “Yes! We’ll be doing a lot of writing — at least a paper a week!” But no. I did overhear a parent say that Pearson’s online writing course is outstanding. (But what about THIS English class here?!) So when I went over to the high school to meet my older daughter’s English Honors teacher that same orientation year, I asked the same question. Her teacher told me that students should know how to write before the time they arrive at his course. Really? The thing is, nobody’s teaching kids to write after 6th grade so the window is in 3rd, 4th and 5th. Only my now 7th-grader was clueless at go. It’s no wonder then that 40 percent of college freshmen are taking remedial writing courses! Parents are paying colleges to teach kids what they should have learned years ago! So back to home essays. Time to avert disaster. If my kids and yours are going to get ahead in life we’ve got to take action at our kitchen tables! That’s where you’ll find me most evenings, now. Working with my third grader, trying to make it fun. Honing in on skills with my seventh grader and encouraging my older two, also. Parent involvement today means homeschool plus school — especially when it comes to communication skills. That’s the right stuff ... or should I say the WRITE stuff.

Please shrare your thoughts on this and other subjects with me! susan@daycommail.com 4 September 2011

CF 04-05 (EdNote-Online).indd 4

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:14 PM

10945 Reed Hartman Hwy., Ste. 221, Cincinnati, OH 45242 513-252-0077

Email and other responses become the property of this publication and may be edited for length and clarity. Send to sherryh@daycommail.com.

Local Moms —sharing — JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Our editors post on parenting issues and welcome your own at facebook.com/cincinnatifamily

Tiffiney Winchester Jenkins Yes my 6year-old started that when she was 5 as well, we taught her to raise her hand when she wanted to speak, but she still interrupts.

My 5-year-old always interrupts me when I’m talking with someone else. She gets louder until I acknowledge her. Have any of you dealt with this?

Amber McMillan Weber We’ve taught our kids that if they need to tell Mommy or Daddy something when we’re talking to other adults, they can touch our arm (and keep their hand there), which lets us know they want to tell us something ... then we can give them our full attention when we’re finished talking to the other adult. This has worked great for our family!

Victoria Burls My 5-year-old did it ... every time she would, I’d tell her that grown ups are talking and she needed to wait until we were done ... or if it was really important then to say excuse me ... I kept reminding her until she learned ... now when her little sister does it she tells her the same thing!!

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com nkyfamily.com

Melissa Nicole Proudfoot Svendsen I’d say, “Excuse me one minute,” to whom I was talking to, and then lean down and tell my son I will not listen to a rude little boy and that when he finds his manners and can nicely say excuse me like I did then he could have a turn ... It took a little work but I started at age 3 and by 4 he even learned to wait until I said, “Yes, sir, what can I do for you?” before he started telling me what he needed. Rowena Soriano Gonzalez Aldridge We did exactly as Amber suggests and it worked brilliantly. We also taught our child to say, “Excuse me” if she is addressing a group of adults. We began this when she had just turned 5 and she picked it up pretty quickly; within a week she was doing it consistently and has retained it all these years later.

who’s

talking?

VISIT US ONLINE FOR:

THE EDITORS’ BLOG, THE LOCAL PARENT BLOGGER NETWORK and MUST CLICKS including:

Dinner 2 Night Expecting! Get Crafty Parenting Tip of the Day

Now Sh aring! Like us on Facebook/ Cincinnati Family For daily parenting info and more, follow us on Twitter @cincyfam cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 04-05 (EdNote-Online).indd 5

MIND YOUR MANNERS! Kids need lots of reminders about minding their manners before the lesson sticks, readers say.

new book for dyslexic readers

ids challenged by dyslexia can find an identifiable hero in this new book with special formatting —The Sword of Darrow (BenBella; $12.99) — written by 14-year-old Alex Malchow, who also struggles with the disorder, and his father Hal. For kids ages 9 12, the book is receiving outstanding reviews. The authors have given us special hardcover editions to share. Head to cincinnatifamilymagazine. com or nkyfamily.com to learn how to get your copy.

September 2011 5

8/17/11 3:15 PM

Live On Stage! Saving Money Is Like Making Money. With deals and helpful tips on great products and services for your family—from moms in your area, Plum District is the place to save money (and have a great time doing it). And unlike some generic deal sites, our site is specifically designed for moms.

©Disney

NETworks presents

Your One-Stop Education Shop!

Tickets start at $25!

Over 15,000 different items in stock! Florence, KY: 6914 Burlington Pike 859-283-0151 Mon-Fri 9-8, Sat 9-6, Sun 1-5

September 27 - October 9 Aronoff Center

20% OFF ONE ITEM

Full priced items only. Excludes special orders and clearance merchandise. Once coupon per customer; may not be combined with any other discount or coupon. expires 9/30/11

6 September 2011

CF 06-11 (FYI).indd 6

800.982.2787 • Groups 15+: 513.369.4363 BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com • Ticketmaster.com Super Saturdays! 1st Saturday of every month. Free crafts and games for kids. 60% clearance!

www.BeautyAndTheBeastOnTour.com

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:17 PM

family NEWS

BY SHERRY HANG

CINCINNATI

introducing! the ALL-NEW

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

e’re delighted to bring you a brand-new and improved cincinnatifamilymagazine. com! Check out our Digital Edition for the full bounty of award-winning monthly content, and now, our LOCAL MOM BLOGGERS offer their takes on parenting in Greater Cincinnati. Our new site also offers family calendar updates plus guides and directories and more features than ever before. Come and visit us online and see for yourself!

MUST CLICKS GIVEAWAYS EDITORS’ BLOGS PARENT BLOGS september

GIVEAWAYS “Like” us on Facebook! Then click on the “Giveaways” tab and enter to win one of these great prizes: A copy of RIO or Strawberry Shortcake: Growing Up Dreams on DVD from 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, and visit cincinnatifamilymagazine.com to download some fun activity sheets A family four-pack of tickets to EnterTrainment

calling future thespians!

oung performers can participate in Covedale Center for the Performing Arts’ (CYPT) after-school program. The CYPT Prep Program offers classes in acting, improvisation, theatre skills and performance for

ages 10 - 13 on the Covedale Center for the Performing Arts stage. Taught by

Junction

experienced instructors and professional guest artists, kids who plan to audition

A pass good for two adults and one child on the Lebanon

Mason Monroe Railroad

A family four-pack of tickets to see Yo Gabba Gabba LIVE! on Tuesday, Sept. 20 at the Aronoff Center for the Arts

for Cincinnati Young People’s Theatre teen program can gain great preparation here. Classes start Sept. 13; a final performance is on Saturday, Oct. 15. Tuition is $100, call 513-241-6550 or visit cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com. (please turn the page)

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 06-11 (FYI).indd 7

September 2011 7

8/17/11 3:17 PM

NEWS spend the weekend

IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS!

eptember 24 and 25 bring the annual Great Outdoor Weekend — a chance for families to explore the best nature activities and programs Greater Cincinnati has to offer, all for FREE. An initiative of advocacy group Green Umbrella, the Great Outdoor Weekend event offers 70 programs for all ages. Check out a Luminary Tree Hike with the Hamilton County Park District, paint a pumpkin at the Boone County Arboretum, or pick a bouquet at Granny’s Garden School. Find all the programs at cincygreatoutdoorweekend.org.

just for parents!

ids are back in school, and this month parents can enjoy learning opportunities too. Check out these workshops just for parents:

• THE CINCINNATI FAMILY ENRICHMENT CENTER (4244 Hamilton Ave., theplaceforfamilies.com) offers workshops all month long, including a workshop on baby slings and carriers on Saturday, Sept. 10, and an intro to cloth diapers on Saturday, Sept. 24. • BEECH ACRES PARENTING CENTER (6881 Beechmont Ave., beechacres.org) will host a workshop on helping your crew handle stress and become problem-solvers on Tuesday, Sept. 13. • Parents on the hunt for education options won’t want to miss an orientation from virtual school OHIO CONNECTIONS ACADEMY (Crowne Plaze Hotel Cincinnati North, 11320 Chester Road, connectionsacademy.com/OH1) on Thursday, Sept. 15. And learn how to help your youngster become a better reader with an info session from the LANGSFORD LEARNING ACCELERATION CENTER (9402 Towne Sqare Ave., weteachreading.com) on Wednesday, Sept. 28. • Learn about alternatives to traditional child care on Thursday, Sept. 15 from child care consultants at the SHARONVILLE RECREATION DEPARTMENT (10990 Thornview Drive, 513-563-2895).

8 September 2011

“Where Every Family Matters.”

hear parenting expert michele borba

ward-winning author and parenting expert Michele Borba

provides the keynote speech on raising children with character at Summit Country Day School’s Fourth Annual Early Childhood Education Symposium on Saturday, Oct. 15. Featuring breakout sessions with local experts on education, the symposium is free, but registration is required. Call 513-8714700, ext. 261 or visit summitcds.org.

FALL ENROLLMENT GOING ON NOW

Infants * Toddlers * Preschool * Montessori * Kindergarten

join us in the

kinder garden school Live webcams in every classroom

6 weeks to school age

Gymnastics For all ages and levels

Now offering transportation to Mapledale and Blue Ash Elementary in Sycamore School District AND Creekside Early Childhood and Freedom Elementary in Lakota School District 5900 West Chester Rd. • West Chester • 513-874-3100 • www.kindergardenschool.com 10969 Reed Hartman Hwy. • Blue Ash• 513-791-4300 • www.kindergardenschool.com

Offering gymnastics programs for girls & boys... • New State-of-the-art Facility • Parent-Tot Program • Preschool & School-Age Classes • Tumbling • Birthday Parties & Field Trips • Recreation Gymnastics Classes • Competitive Gymnastics Team • Caring Fun Environment • Enrique Trabanino - Head Coach/Owner

5637 Union Centre Drive West Chester • (513) 860-3351 Come visit our facility & meet us!

Y ou’re Jewish... Y our partner’s not... * How can one couple from two different backgrounds turn

Yours and Mine into Ours?

Introducing

Fusion

the perfect blending of backgrounds and traditions A program of the Jewish community for couples and families who want to meet others just like themselves, learn a little bit about Jewish customs, rituals and traditions, socialize and have a great time!

Have a family with young children? Check out Fusion Family on our website. * Fusion is open to couples and families in which only one adult is Jewish and the other isn’t, or in which one or both adults have converted to Judaism

Fusion is an initiative of The Mayerson Foundation cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 06-11 (FYI).indd 9

September 2011 9

8/17/11 3:17 PM

Trust the Group

CHOOL!

BACK-TO-S

Babies babies delivered daily delivered daily!

low ar right with Start the ye kids’ ently used prices on g ds they m top bran clothing fro bie kids, e, abercrom ic st Ju : ve a cr more! nd so much Old Navy a

And you get $$$ on the spot for wha they’ve outgrown. t appointment needNo ed! GREATER CINCINNATI: Anderson 513-474-5105 • West Chester 513-860-0770 **Florence 859-282-8922 **Fields Ertel 513-677-5700 **Colerain 513-385-3034 BEST OF PARENTING Western Hills 513-451-7600 BEST OF READER’S CHOICE PARENTING AWARDS

READER’S CHOICE DAYTON: AWARDS **Beavercreek 937-427-2744 Dayton Mall 937-312-1294 • Huber Heights 937-235-2125 **Upon a Mom Maternity Dept.

Cincinnati Family Magazine Cincinnati Family Magazine

HOURS- Monday- Saturday 9:30am – 9pm Sunday: 11am – 6pm

www.onceuponachildcincydayton.com

Apex Chiropractic & Wellness Center Brain Strain

Mixed Messages in Childhood Development If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, or Autism you won’t want to miss this informational presentation. Learn about effective, natural, drug-free treatment options that can help your child reach their full learning potential. Thursday, October 20th 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. RSVP (513) 931-4300 Free! The event will be held at our ofﬁce.

Ask any mother – the care you get while you’re expecting makes a difference. At Group Health Associates, you choose your personal obstetrician. You can be assured you and your baby will get the support and care you need at this important time in your life. Your personal doctor. The strength of the Group.

Call 513.246.7000 for all locations

Anderson • Clifton • Kenwood Mason • Springdale Western Hills • Western Ridge Most insurance plans accepted ————————

Mammography, X-ray, ultrasound, pharmacy and therapies at most offices

GHA-CIN FAMILY ad - SEPT 11 - 1/4 pg

SPA

Suburban Pediatric Associates, Inc.

Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine

We specialize in the care of infants, children and adolescents.

are common for children returning to school reassure your child that they are not alone. Drive or walk your child to ease their fears. Make healthy choices and limit sugary snacks and drinks in your child’s lunch. If your child is walking to school, make sure it is a safe route with well trained crossing guards at intersections. If your child is riding his/ her bike ~ they must wear a bike helmet. If their school bus has seat belts, they need to buckle up! Make good homework habits at the beginning of the year to avoid stress later on! Happy school days!

FIRST DAY JITTERS

Three Locations. One Number. For All Your Pediatric Needs...

513-336-6700

8624 Winton Road, Suite B., Cincinnati

513-931-4300

www.apexchirocenter.com 10 September 2011

LOCATIONS: Mason-Montgomery 9600 Children’s Dr., Mason, OH 45040 Liberty Township 7335 Yankee Rd., Liberty Twp. OH 45044 Forest Park 752 Waycross Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45240 “Where Every Family Matters.”

suburbanpediatrics.org

POWER

kids’HEALTH

breakfast? Is it dumb to let kids skip the morning meal? Probably.

emember simpler mornings of not too long ago? Sitting, chatting and nibbling, reading the paper, feeding the family. That’s so over. Now, parents wake up around 5 a.m. to check e-mail, Facebook and the news, only to quickly scramble to get the kids’ lunches made. Before you know it, those kids are running for the bus with half eaten bowls of cereal still on the table. It’s just another crazy school morning in the Internet age.

Only wait a minute. On their website, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center

says that kids who don’t eat breakfast don’t do well in school. After sleeping eight - 10 hours at night and going without food, what your child eats in the a.m. is definitely the most important meal of his day. So make it good! “The nature of the food we eat affects hormones in profound ways for many hours after a meal,” says David Ludwig, M.D., author of Ending the Food Fight (Houghton Mifflin). What’s best for kids in the morning, Ludwig says, are breakfast foods with a low glycemic index (GI). The term refers to how rapidly carbohydrates affect blood sugar. How to tell if a food has a low glycemic index? A quick rule of thumb: The more processed the food, the higher its GI; the higher a food’s fiber content, the lower its GI. Breakfast, in other words, should be a high-fiber event. This means vegetables and fruits and whole grains. Cincinnati Children’s says it’s important to offer fruits and vegetables to children at every meal. So now what? Prepare the oatmeal or low-fat yogurt and fruit smoothie or whole-wheat bagel with low-fat cream cheese before your kids come into the kitchen — BEFORE you get sucked into the chasm

Breakfast is NOT dessert Serve waffles and pancakes, breakfast breads, muffins, pastries, donuts and breakfast bars with artificial goodness on rare occasions only!

of Internet delight that makes time disappear. Teach your kids that what they eat in the morning IS important, and will help them in school, in fact. Afterall, it’s true!

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 06-11 (FYI).indd 11

September 2011 11

8/17/11 3:18 PM

feature

B Y VA L E R I E A L L E N

*creative activities for preschoolers

Their minds are like sponges that love to soak up all they can — with fun, at the same time.

“L

ook, Mommy! Come see what I made!” says 4-year-old Connor, running toward his mother and sliding in his socks on the hardwood floor. He’s busting to share his accomplishment — and there’s a lot of that these days. In his room, Connor has assembled a giant fire engine floor puzzle, and he’s overjoyed about it. First, he unwrapped the new puzzle’s cellophane wrapper, then, in the quiet of his room, he sat down to work on his own and completed his project. “You’re so smart, Connor!” his mom, Melissa Smithson tells him. “Good job!” Smithson says that she has “worked” with Connor since he was an infant. “It is my greatest joy,” Smithson says. “I love reading to him and encouraging his effort to do things on his own. Not all kids his age are so self-sufficient, but I think just playing with him and prompting him toward independence has helped him to blossom.” Just like trust is the foundation of babyhood, the preschool years are characterized by interdependence and mastery, says Marianne Neifert, M.D., in her book Dr. Mom’s Prescription for Preschoolers: Seven Essentials for the Formative Years (Zondervan; $14.95). The building blocks of a young child’s formative preschool years — according to Neifert — include social and emotional characteristics, language, self-care, gross motor skills, fine motor skills and intellectual abilities. These “blocks” modify each year as a child’s capabilities change. But not all kids are the same. While children follow the same predictable sequence in early development, each child progresses with learning at his own pace. That’s why play time is learning time. Helping your child develop and learn is one of the great joys — and challenges — of parenting. But Neifert cautions not to think of it as a chore; think of it as fun for you, too. You can help your child gain ground in the preschool years of 3 to 5 by simply doing fun activities together. Here are several ideas for doing so:

12 September 2011

CF 12-13 (PreK-Activities).indd 12

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:23 PM

*Create a Special Place

preschool profiles

Children love the idea of a secret club house. Some quick and easy suggestions: put a bean bag chair or large pillow in the bathtub, a big box or an old boat. Or, spread a blanket or put an umbrella over the top of two lawn chairs or try an old sheet attached to the ceiling, with a hula hoop sewn into the hem to hold it open. Use the secret club house as a “thinking room” for quiet talk together or just time alone. Says Katie Thompson, Director of Franchise Development for All About Kids, “We have a place like that in our centers. It offers a nice getaway, especially if kids need to be by themselves. It’s an area to cool down, and play alone — a sanctuary for them if they need it.”

*Get All Dressed Up

Children enjoy being “in-character.” You can use real costumes or create a special outfit from yarn, lace, or ribbon for this fun learning time. You can use simple things such as a floppy hat, dad’s slippers, mom’s fancy blouse or Grandma’s apron. If you want to be truly creative, make a paper-bag vest and decorate it with stickers each time your youngster completes a project.

*Build a Learning Kit

Have all the basics: pencils, pens, crayons, markers, tape, glue and scissors. Gather magazines, books on tape and activity pads. Have a large box for “fine and wonderful junk” to bring out the creative genius in your child. Collect cardboard, computer paper, envelopes, junk mail, pop sticks, buttons and other treasures. Also useful are leftover pieces from games and puzzles. You can also check out blue manatee boxes (bluemanateeboxes.com) — a “retro-lutionary” gift for babies and children under 3 years old. Parents can choose from a selection of board books (or choose from a box already designed to a particular theme), and also receive ideas and instruction on how to re-use the box and the packing material for creative play. Founder Dr. John Hutton says, “Our hope is that blue manatee boxes will encourage shared reading and creative play — two of the most important activities for healthy development.”

*Do Fun Things

Encourage independent activities or work together. Have your child draw a picture to go with a story you’ve read to him. Assign a letter each day and cut

3 Years Old

Provide your preschooler with plenty of imaginative play to boost her development.

out pictures that start with that letter and tape them to index cards. Use them to make sentences, find rhymes and for placing cards on household objects that start with the same letter. Organize them into groups like animals, food, toys, furniture or clothes. If you want to introduce your child to more social settings, consider heading over to the Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center (theplaceforfamilies.com). CFEC offers what they call “playful learning” — productive learning through investigation of interesting materials, inventing new uses for those materials and having fun with it all. Beginning this fall, CFEC will also offer specific developmental classes for ages 3 - 5, including FUNdamentals (reading, writing and math exploration), Hand in Hand (developing community kindness and cultural awareness), and Earth Rocks (a focus on our world, bodies and environment).

4 Years Old Boisterous and exuberant, 4-yearolds will test your energy. They will ask “Why?” endlessly and start to show initiative. Language is growing and letter recognition is getting easier and easier. Use this opportunity by building with ABC blocks. These dexterous creatures can manipulate small objects, cut on a line with scissors and work with stringing beads, finger painting and crafts of all kinds. They understand cause and effect and some can count to 20.

5 Years Old

*Have Rewards

Keep a weekly record and write each day’s accomplishments on a large chart. “Being able to see it in print is important,” says Thompson. “Kids can put a sticker on the chart when they complete something, and it helps them understand a task from beginning to end.” Once a week, have a special celebration such as a tea party or quick-snack picnic. You can use stickers or draw happy faces on the chart as you review and discuss all the fun things that were done. You can take photos and mail them, along with art work, to Dad at his office, Grandma (near or far) or friends. Providing these simple opportunities for your preschooler will help get him on the track that learning is fun, and, when you’re engaged, easier! Valerie Allen is mother of six, author of two books and a psychologist.

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 12-13 (PreK-Activities).indd 13

Eager to please and motivated to master what is required, 3-yearolds love receiving recognition for achievements. A spurt of intellectual, social and emotional growth occurs at 3, and there’s an eagerness to act “big.” Three-year-olds love interaction with you, and language is developing at a rapid pace — read together a lot! They have imprecise cutting ability but love to do crafts. Give them beads, dough and clay, puzzles and large-size Legos and blocks. They love sorting by size, color and category.

Restrained, pleasant, self-controlled and focused, 5-year-olds are delightfully positive and eager to please. They are proud of their vast knowledge and enjoy playing organized games in large groups — rules are important, mind you. They talk a lot and enjoy books on favorite subjects. Five-year-olds can tell stories and anticipate what follows. They are skillful at coloring within outlines, but give them plenty of opportunities to create their own works and display them. They are skillful builders and are ready to begin learning about tying shoes. Most can count to 30 or higher. Source: Dr. Mom’s Prescription for Preschoolers (Zonderban; $14.95)

September 2011 13

8/17/11 3:23 PM

Summer Adventure Camps Available

CCM

open house

(ages 4-16)

Rock Climbing, Nature Hikes, Rafting*, Crafts, Games and more!

PREP

*Rafting not available for mini campers

LESSONS & PERFORMING OPPORTUNITIES

in music, dance and theatre arts for the young and young at heart ages 3 to 83. For classes and calendar of events: www.ccm.uc.edu/prep 513-556-2959 513-556-2595

CALL FOR MORE DETAILS, OR TO REGISTER FOR CAMPS! 3475 E. Kemper Rd., Sharonville (513) 733-0123 RockQuest.com

Individualized Method of Education Ages 2 1/2 - 6 years Pre-school and Kindergarten

Serving Liberty Township, West Chester & Mason

2505 RIVERSIDE DRIVE, CINCINNATI, OH 45202 513-321-3282 – www.montessoricenterroom.com

Math Tutoring Experts.

Full Day & Half Day Sessions

Nov. 6, 2011 1pm-3pm

SPECIA LN PROGR EEDS A AVAILAB MS LE

West Chester/Fairfield Area

Blue Ash Math Learning Center (513) 984-1212 9525 Kenwood Road, Ste 15 Cincinnati, OH 45242 +More than 260 locations in 12 countries!

3501 Tylersville Road 737-0479

Call for Observation Appointment

• AM & PM Pre-Primary Programs • Full Day Kindergarten • Enrichment Program Available 8:00am-5:30pm • Tuition Assistance Offered • AMS Affiliated • Musikgarten Offered

enro todayll!

FarmviewMontessori.com

mathnasium.com/blueash

Moms and Dads in Cincinnati want you to know... “This is our second year here at CHS, and it is the second year I have gone without my child saying, ‘Do we have to go, it’s boring, just one time can I skip.’” - Cindy Reichman “I wish I had a Hebrew school program like this when i was a kid! No matter if you were raised reform, conservative, or orthodox we are all one family here at Chabad.” - Aaron Fritzhand

½ price for ages 3-5

Hebrew School

Making parents proud

All are welcome! More Info: Synagogue membership is not required. Payment plans available. No child will be turned away for lack of funds.

14 September 2011

CF 14-17 (Top Teachers).indd 14

specializing in early childhood care & education! Family Friendly Programming: Flexible full and part‐ time programs for children 6 weeks ‐ 12 years in a warm & welcoming environment. Hours 6:30AM‐6:30PM M‐F. Extensive Parent Communication: Outstanding Reggio curriculum communicated through portfolios & journals for every child, and daily e‐mail highlights.

Chabad Jewish Center

Try a class free, any Sunday.

Setting The Standard In Early Care & Education

Outstanding Teachers: Talented & degreed faculty

, 3977 Hunt Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45236 ( 513-793-5200 6 513-793-5435 : www.CHSCincinnati.com

Ages 3-12. Sunday mornings, 9:30 - 12:15

www.AboutCompass.com

9370 Waterstone Blvd. Cincinnati, Ohio 45249 Call 513.683.8833 to schedule your personal tour! $300 Off First Month’s Tuition Valid for new registrations only. $300 for full-time, $150 part-time. May not combine offers. Ex. 10.1.11

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:30 PM

education

above & beyond

BY SHERRY HANG

Ohio’s Top Teachers on How to Reach Kids

ow do you provide kids immediate feedback in the classroom? What gets kids motivated to learn? With America frustrated by education, answers are often hard won and riddled with controversy. So we went straight to some of Ohio’s outstanding teachers for their input. Tim Dove, a middle school social studies teacher and 2011 Ohio Teacher of the Year; Diane Runyon, a fourth-grade

history teacher and 2011 Ohio History Teacher of the Year; and Natalie Wester, a third-grade and 2010 Ohio Teacher of the Year.

TD: One of the things I keep coming back to is historical imagination. I try to give kids a sense of how to think about what people understood, or didn’t understand, not as a way to justify what they did, but to understand why things happened the way they did, and most importantly, how we can protect ourselves from really idiotic things in the future. One of the fun things I do with the middle school kids is ask them if this [famous person] is someone you would have hung out with at 12. That’s an easy and cool way to connect kids to people we have decided as a culture is important for them to know about.

TD: I would hope so. What I think teachers really struggle with is immediate feedback. In a structure where you have a classroom of 30 or up to 150 students, giving immediate feedback is very difficult. So what we really need to do is start thinking about is how we can look at their work and give them the feedback they need in order to continue their depth of learning.

Students are eager to explore when they feel connected to the subject; what are some of your techniques for connecting students to what you are teaching?

DR: I integrate my lessons across the curriculum. When I am teaching Ohio Native American tribes in Social Studies we are reading Crooked River by Ohio author Shelley Pearsall, in language arts. I take the experiences from their reading and bring activities to the classroom, which will make the experience more real. Such as, making ghost beads or grinding herbs with a mortar and pestle to make a poultice. The students try to figure out how they would survive in the wilderness, they present their survival plan and as a class we decide who would survive [and we ask,] “Why do some ideas not work?”

In the classroom, many say teachers are fighting a war against the interactivity and excitement that kids have come to expect from video games, films, etc. Do teachers feel pressure to make class more exciting?

DR: I notice that students today expect immediate gratification. Their patience level is lower than students in pre-computer days. I teach history, by making the people in history interesting so they can see that they were real people with real-life problems. It is like telling one long story, where choices are made and the consequences of those actions shape the future. Just like today.

NW: I wouldn’t use the word pressure, but I think in good teaching you are always looking for ways to engage your students and make learning meaningful. I think all good teachers need to look at how they can incorporate 21st century learning into lessons so that students — whatever age — feel fully engaged and excited about learning and not just like passive students.

NW: Teachers are facilitators. Just asking questions and letting them work together leads to learning. For both the student and the teacher — when you see how children approach a problem, you can identify trends and misconceptions that might get in the way of learning and then you can address those. cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 14-17 (Top Teachers).indd 15

(please turn the page)

September 2011 15

8/17/11 3:30 PM

above & beyond ... what makes our

there is some base-line stuff that you need to know. But to focus your entire day at school on that kind of learning doesn’t work.

educators so great?

How do you motivate kids to learn?

TD: Without sounding horrible, the motivation is in playing mind-games! Just to get kids to think beyond the obvious or to think beyond what they initially read or hear. The other thing is to get a kid to understand that learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom. They’re thinking about a whole lot of stuff — our job is to show them how what we’re teaching connects to that stuff. DR: I am a very hands-on teacher. I spend very little time with direct instruction. My students are working on many different projects that speak to their own personal learning style. Whatever will make the biggest impact and provide them with a total understanding of the big picture.

NW: Children are engaged by what’s meaningful to them and what’s relevant to their lives. It doesn’t always have to be technology, but that’s certainly something they are familiar with and excited by and curious about. What I have found to be most successful is motivating kids to solve problems related to their lives. So our students become not just students, but hands-on problem-solvers.

How do teachers stay current and motivated for how swiftly technology is changing things?

TD: You have to see it as your friend. For example, we were trying to find a

way to have kids give us input quickly, anonymously, about value systems so we could figure out how to chart it quickly and use it as data for our discussions. But we didn’t want kids getting nailed for having an opinion that was a minority opinion. We found a system online that used cell phones for texting. In a lot of schools, they try to keep kids from using their phones. And we were like, “Well, bring your cell phones tomorrow, we’re going to be using them in class.” And the kids were flabbergasted. We showed them how it worked, and then we had these graphs that we got off the net in real-time and we could use those to continue the conversation of what we were studying.

NW: Through professional development. Our district has a series of development activities. So we are learners ourselves. I always tell my students, “I’m going to school too!”

How important is it for teachers to investigate the material they are teaching and ways to get active with it in the classroom?

TD: It’s critical. But you don’t have to be the “sage on the stage.” You can validate the kids and what they already know. In any classroom you’re going to have your History Channel freak, and to not invite those kids to be part of the conversation would be ridiculous. Because that’s another place you can find information. DR: The teacher must be proficient in the subject that they teach, but if as a teacher, you bring passion to the subject you teach, your students will benefit from your excitement of the subject. If your class feels you hate what you are teaching, they will also lose the passion for the subject.

What doesn’t work in the classroom anymore?

TD: One, assuming you know everything. Two, memorizing dates or having the sole purpose of the class to memorize things. There are certain things that I think people need to memorize — in social studies, I think you have to have a mental map of where things are in the world. If you want to be taken seriously, 16 September 2011

CF 14-17 (Top Teachers).indd 16

DR: Straight lecture! NW: I think what doesn’t work is homework for the sake of homework. I think homework needs to be practice and I think it needs to inform the next steps of instruction. I tell parents that I don’t give a lot of homework. There’s nightly practice with math, but it shouldn’t take more than 15 minutes. When I collect it, I don’t correct it and give it back, I make two piles — they get it and they don’t quite get it. So the homework helps me know what I need to do next.

Not every strategy works with every student. Should students have the opportunity to construct their own learning, for instance, develop something that works for them in regards to a lesson?

TD: Kids at times should have opportunities to demonstrate their learning in different ways. At the same time, once kids identify what their strengths are, then another part is rounding out their education. So if I identify that I’m maybe musically inclined and that’s how I see the world, that’s great. But if I also identify that fact that maybe my visual-spatial isn’t as good, what is it I work on to get better at that? It’s not going to be my primary mode of understanding the world, but a lot of things that happen in the world happen in other modalities. We need to make sure that kids are able to function in those modalities as well. DR: You need to identify students’ strengths early in the school year and embrace a method of study that will provide the best results. I use many different types of strategies, which touches all learning styles. Some students like to write about what is happening, some might want to draw a picture instead. It is all about understanding the ability to convey to the teacher what is happening.

NW: The first thing I did last year with math was to give the end of the unit test. I thought, “Let’s just see, maybe we don’t even need to waste time with this.” I gave the test, scored it, gave it back, and then had the students write goals. And at 8 years old, they could say whether they could tell time or needed to work on money or measuring or get better with subtractions. And then we made action plans, and they would say, “I’m going to practice at home with my mom for five minutes every day.” They actually identified their own needs and their next steps. Absolutely students can construct their own goals and next steps, and they should. If they don’t have an understanding of what their goals are, how are they going to get there?

Some say good teachers are the lead learners in their classrooms and that this helps break the hierarchy and develop authentic relationships with students. What do you think about that?

TD: If you’re not modeling for your kids what a life-long learner is, then you’re missing the boat. You have to set up a learning community, in which the teacher is one — but not the only — lead learner in that community. You also need to invite kids to be a leader in that community. And one thing I tell parents is to not divorce the responsibility of educating your kids with schools. It works when there’s a strong triangle of support and cooperation between student, parent and teacher. NW: I’m always presenting myself as a learner. I think they need to see you that way. One way I assess their learning is having them create a test for me. And if they stump me, I have to run 10 laps or five laps around the gym. So they want to make it as hard as possible, but they also have to have the answer key, so they are researching and learning while they are trying to stump me. J Sherry Hang is editor of this publication.

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:30 PM

Open ent Enrollm S E TOUR P R IVAT L E B Y B AVA IL A TMENT A P P O IN

Psychological help

XAVIER UNIVERSITY

MONTESSORI LAB • Located on the beautiful campus of Xavier University, where Montessori teachers come to learn.

Open HOuse Nov. 30

10:30 - 12:30

• More than 40 years of making a difference in the lives of children.

when you need it Specializing in:

• Adolescent Issues • ADHD - Testing and Treatment • Conduct/Oppositional Deﬁant Disorder • Home Based Therapy • Parent Child Relationship Issues

• Our mission: To respectfully educate a diverse community of children by instilling a love for learning using the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori. FOR MORE INFORMATION

Leslie Roth, principal 513-745-3402 kernld@xavier.edu

www.xavier.edu/montessori

COLLEGE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, HEALTH, AND EDUCATION

To Learn More,Visit our Website www.KatkinTherapy.com 5720 A Signal Hill Ct.

MIlford | 513-831-9408

7+,6 ,6 0<

'$<

READ

SHAKESPEARE

SCIENCE WON INCLASS STOCK MARKET

GAM E

W E C R E AT E D

NYC FIRE BUBBLES AND A TRIP TO

>·5= D5F@u :F5Bt5=G

SKYPED Rigorous preparation. A joyful environment. Students who will find success in any world. 20110627CincyFamily.indd 1

CF 14-17 (Top Teachers).indd 17

STUDY

SESSIONS

Discover your Day November 2 and November 9, 2011 6905 Given Road, Cincinnati, OH 45243 • 513.979.0220 • www.CountryDay.net

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

<CGH98 5 B9K

GHI89BH

MADE A NEW

BEST

FRIEND

Cincinnati Country Day School, founded in 1926, is a co-educational, college preparatory school serving 18 month through grade 12 students. 7/7/2011 5:55:58 PM

September 2011 17

8/17/11 3:31 PM

You see programs that help your child learn teamwork and social skills; they see a

The Little Gym

their greatest potential. Structured lessons, unique themes and a nurturing environment build confidence during each stage of childhood.

Call to schedule a free introductory class. CallLittle to schedule free introductory The Gym of aLiberty Township class. The Little Gym ofRoad, Liberty777-1110 or Mason 7318 Yankee www.thelittlegym.com The Little Gym of Mason 777-1110 204-1400 8201 Arbor Square Drive, 204-1400 www.thelittlegym.com

Children’s Meeting House M O N T E S S O R I

S C H O O L

creating a legacy of leaders for almost 40 years AMS affiliated and state accredited

•

• • •

•

18 September 2011

CF 18-23 (SmartList).indd 18

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:32 PM

Build Your Child’s Education Outside of School

EDUCATION GROUPS American Heritage Girls 513-771-2025 • ahgonline.org /AmericanHeritageGirls

A faith-based organization where girls experience new challenges that teach service, team-building and leadership skills in a safe and fun environment. To find a Troop in your area or to start a new Troop, visit the website.

ArtReach: A Division of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati 5020 Oaklawn Drive, Cincinnati 513-569-8080 • thechildrenstheatre.com/artreach /The-Childrens-Theatre-of-Cincinnati

Cincinnati’s oldest in-school touring theatre, reaching schools, libraries and other facilities in Greater Cincinnati with fairy tales, history shows and stories based on classic literature. WorkShops bring a professional teaching artist directly into classrooms, expanding music, drama and theatre appreciation through lessons aligned with the curriculum. ArtReach shows include Aesop’s Fables, The Frog Prince, The Gift of the Magi, The Satchel Paige Story, and The Ugly Duckling. The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati will also offer these productions for the 2011 - 2012 season: The Wizard of Oz (Oct. 14 - 16, 22); Holiday Follies (Dec. 2 - 4, 10); Disney’s My Son Pinocchio Jr. (Feb. 10 - 12, 18); and Rapunzel! Rapunzel! A Very Hairy Fairy Tale (March 23 - 25, 31).

Boy Scouts of America, Dan Beard Council 10078 Reading Road, Cincinnati 513-577-7700 • danbeard.org /DanBeardCouncil @DanBeardCouncil

An organization of more than 33,000 youth emphasizing positive ethical and moral choices, citizenship training, character development, personal fitness and education training.

Cincinnati Hamilton County Community Action Agency/Head Start (CAA) 1740 Langdon Farm Road, Cincinnati 513-569-1840 • cincy-caa.org /cincinnaticaa @CincyCAA

CAA’s Head Start program serves ages 3 - 5 who are not eligible for Kindergarten while Early Head Start serves qualifying pregnant women and children younger than 3. Home-Based Head Start supports families with in-home services to help parents with the educational development of their children.

Cincinnati Youth Collaborative (CYC) 513-475-4165 • cycyouth.org /cycyouth @CYCYouth

CYC provides mentoring and college readiness services to Cincinnati Public School students in grades 3 - 12. Serving as a catalyst, CYC brings together more than 1,700 volunteers and 100 local businesses and organizations to help students graduate from high school, persist in post-secondary opportunities and ultimately succeed in life.

Girl Scouts of Kentucky’s Wilderness Road 607 Watson Road, Erlanger 859-342-6263 • gskentucky.com /pages/Girl-Scouts-of-Kentuckys-WildernessRoad-Council/139456219446152 @GSKWRC

Girl Scouts of Kentucky’s Wilderness Road aims to build girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place.

Girl Scouts of Western Ohio 4930 Cornell Road, Cincinnati 800-537-6241 • girlscoutsofwesternohio.org /pages/Girl-Scouts-of-WesternOhio/102482840131 @GirlScoutsWO

The non-formal educational organization where, with the support of positive role models, girls develop leadership skills for life. Girl scouting builds girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place.

Home Instruction for Parents of Preschoolers (HIPPY) YWCA of Greater Cincinnati 898 Walnut St., Cincinnati 513-241-7090 • ywcacincinnati.org /YWCA.CINCINNATI#

HIPPY is a home visiting program for caregivers of children ages 3 - 5 in Hamilton and Clermont counties that is designed to increase school readiness and foster parent involvement in their children’s education and community life. The curriculum is focused on specific school readiness skills, including the four essential features of role playing, home visits, group meetings and a staff of home visitors. (please turn the page)

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 18-23 (SmartList).indd 19

September 2011 19

8/17/11 3:33 PM

Obs erv e

ve o c

Us!

Dis

With Come Soar

“Our family has been a part of the CMA community for over seven years… I cannot express how much my children have been nurtured, loved, challenged and most of all — educated. We love CMA.”

INFANTS | TODDLERS | PRESCHOOL | ELEMENTARY

£ ä{Ê-*, Ê," ÊUÊ / ]Ê" "Ê{xÓÎ£ WWW.CENTRALMONTESSORIACADEMY.COM

No other virtual school offers so many real advantages. Our curriculum is outstanding. Our certified teachers are superb. Our fully accredited, free public school develops the whole child socially and academically. And we’re the only eSchool designated “Excellent” by the Ohio Department of Education. No wonder so many Ohio students thrive here. Join us.

I love going to school here. Accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement.

www.ConnectionsAcademy.com/OH1

800-382-6019

RSVP for a FREE Information Session Thursday, September 15, 6:30 PM Crowne Plaza Hotel Cincinnati North 11320 Chester Road Cincinnati, OH 45246 Scan here to RSVP now.

20 September 2011

CF 18-23 (SmartList).indd 20

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:33 PM

Homeschool Network of Greater Cincinnati hsn_cincy@yahoo.com • hsncincy.com

A network of families supporting each other in educating children at home. No particular method, style or philosophy is advocated, but the network provides assistance and connects families to each other and to the information and resources they need. Families from Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana are part of the network, with children ranging in age from infants to graduating seniors.

Northern Kentucky Association for Early Childhood Education kaece.org /#!/pages/Northern-Kentucky-Association-forEarly-Childhood-Education/184971891538566 Support for early care and education professionals through opportunities for networking and professional development.

Kentucky Department of Education 502-564-4770 • education.ky.gov/KDE /kydeptofed @KyDeptofEd

Offering resources for Kentucky’s public schools and families, including information on individual learning plans, advanced placement programs, and e-mail updates on news and happenings.

National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) 800-424-2460 • naeyc.org /NAEYC @NAEYC

Aimed at the well-being of young children, especially ages birth - 8 years, with a special focus on early childhood development and education.

Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children (OAEYC) 800-626-2392 • oaeyc.org /pages/Ohio-Association-for-the-Education-ofYoung-Children/102488536460883 @OhioAEYC The Ohio chapter of the NAEYC provides advocacy for early childhood professionals, as well as furthers the NAEYC mission of providing care and education of young children and their families.

Ohio Department of Education 877-644-6338 • ode.state.oh.us /NAEYC#!/pages/Ohio-Department-of-Education/132750383429191 @OHEducation

Providing parents with an understanding of what children are expected to learn in school, as well as advice on how to get more involved with their children’s education, including special needs, home schooling options and more.

ENRICHMENT

Cincinnati Chess Club 3882 Paxton Ave., Hyde Park 513-321-9320 • cincinnatichessclub.com

This club for members of all ages and skill levels meets each Friday evening at the Oakley Recreation Center. Visitors are asked to join or make a donation on subsequent visits.

Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center 4244 Hamilton Ave. 513-591-CFEC (2332) • theplaceforfamilies.com /thecfec

Programs available to children include: art, yoga, Spanish, infant/toddler sign language, music, developmental play from birth through 3 years, Tummy Time, and more.

Cincinnati Nature Center (CNC) 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford 513-831-1711 • cincynature.org /CincinnatiNatureCenter

CNC offers hands-on educational programs for adults, children and families that cover a range of topics in nature. Play in the nation’s largest Nature Playscape — run, climb, splash, and dig and immerse yourself in nature. Coming in fall of 2012 is CNC Nature Preschool — a fully licensed preschool for children ages 3 - 5 years incorporating our natural environment in all subjects.

Cincinnati Recreation Commission 513-352-4000 • cincyrec.org /cincyrec @cincyrec

Aside from its numerous athletic programs, Cincy Rec also offers arts classes, a teen leadership board, afterschool programs, a girls only program and volunteer opportunities.

Clermont County Chess Club clermontchess.com • clermontchess@yahoo.com Open to all skill levels to learn, practice and master the game of chess.

Drake Planetarium 2020 Sherman Ave. 513-396-5578 • drakeplanetarium.org /drakescience @DrakeScience

Offers a wide range of programs, including math and reading tutoring, OGT and SAY prep, after-school Robotics, Saturday LEGO Mania, monthly planetarium and shows, a middle school science club, plus astronomy and general science programs for home school students.

Imago Earth Center 700 Enright Ave., Cincinnati 513-921-5124 • imagoearth.org

A non-profit environmental organization and 16-acre nature center that emphasizes education, preservation, and community-building. A variety of programs, including field trips and story times, are centered around deepening an appreciation of nature, and hiking opportunities are available.

CET Learning Services 513-345-6545 • cetconnect.org /CETconnect @cetconnect

An array of resources for parents and educators, as well as programming for children, including a CET Kids Club and special events throughout the year.

A non-profit store located on the Cincinnati Waldorf School campus (CWS) that offers Waldorf-inspired toys, crafts, gifts and home and health care items made from natural products (no plastic!) and supports local artists. CWS also offers Parent and Child classes including Nature Tots for parents and babies 3 months - 3 years.

Ohio Chess Association ohiochess.org

Offering competitive chess playing opportunities for grades K - 12 in the state of Ohio.

Playful Learning 4244 Hamilton Ave. 513-591-CFEC (2332) • theplaceforfamilies.com

Advanced enrichment classes created specifically for 3to 5-year-olds that focus on beginning reading, writing, and math skills, geography/geology, science, ecology, cultural awareness, foreign languages, and mindfulness (social-emotional skills) — for families interested in an alternative/addition to preschool.

The Super Saturday Program 513-786-6826 • supersaturday.org /supersaturday

The Super Saturday Program is an enrichment program for intellectually gifted children, ages 4 - 14, in Greater Cincinnati. Since 1981, The Super Saturday Program has offered classes in science, literature, engineering, archaeology, magic, theater, architecture, puppetry, origami, sewing, art and more.

Writers of Outstanding Words (WOW) Media Bridges, 1100 Race St., Cincinnati 513-731-0847 • writersofoutstandingwords.org

A free, non-profit literary arts program open to all children ages 5 and older. Classes meet at Media Bridges the first and third Saturday of each month from 1 - 2 p.m. Classes will resume on Oct. 1, 2011.

YMCA of Greater Cincinnati (16 branches throughout the Tri-State and more than 100 off-site locations) 513-362-YMCA (9622) • myy.org /ymcacincinnati @ymcagrcinti

Programs serving youth pre-K through grade 12 throughout the Tri-State emphasize enrichment in nine key program areas including tutoring and mentoring; college/ career exploration; service learning; arts education; leadership training; health and wellness; global learning; and parent and family engagement. For information on additional programs CincyAfterSchool, ArtWheels, Youth in Government or Discover Health, call 513-362-YMCA (9622).

(please turn the page)

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 18-23 (SmartList).indd 21

Magic Meadow Store 5555 Little Flower Ave., Cincinnati 513-541-0220, ext. 113 • cinciwaldorf.org /CincinnatiWaldorfSchool

September 2011 21

8/17/11 3:33 PM

LANGUAGE PROGRAMS Ohio Foreign Language Association ofla-online.org /pages/Ohio-Foreign-Language-AssociationOFLA/133772903332973 @OFLA1

One of the premier language associations in the U.S., OFLA offers scholarships to students and teachers, promotes study abroad, hosts workshops for professional development and advocates the importance of studying foreign languages.

Clermont County Public Library Administrative Offices 326 Broadway St., Batavia 513-732-2736 • clermontlibrary.org /ClermontCountyPublicLibrary @clermontlibrary

Ten branches offer summer reading, kids and family programming, along with story times and book fairs.

Kenton County Public Library kentonlibrary.org /KentonCountyPublicLibrary

LIBRARY SERVICES

Covington • 502 Scott Blvd., Covington, 859-9624060

Boone County Public Library 859-342-BOOK (2665) • bcpl.org /BooneCountyPublicLibrary @boonelibrary

Erlanger • 401 Kenton Lands Road, Erlanger, 859-962-4000

Main • 1786 Burlington Pike, Burlington

Library branches offer summer reading clubs, community outreach programs like Racing to Read, homework assistance and enrichment activities including Puppy Tales (for children to practice reading skills), Reading Buddies (for children who are not native English speakers), chess clubs and more.

Lents • 3215 Cougar Path, Hebron Chapin Memorial • 6517 Market St., Petersburg Scheben • 8899 US 42, Union Florence • 7425 US 42, Florence Walton • 21 S. Main St., Walton

Offering story times, summer reading programs, Children’s Choice Book Awards, and educational resources for parents and teachers.

Butler County Public Library middletownlibrary.org /pages/Middletown-Trenton-West-ChesterLibrary/191578464202084 Middletown • 125 S. Broad St., Middletown, 513424-8042 West Chester • 9363 Centre Pointe Drive, West Chester, 513-777-3131 Trenton • 21 E. State St., Trenton, 513-988-9050

Programs for ages PreK and older, including games and activities, story times, programs for teens, homework help and college searches.

Campbell County Public Library cc-pl.org /pages/Campbell-County-Public-Library/117603651591058

Durr • 1992 Walton-Nicholson Road, Independence, 859-962-4030

Lane Public Library lanepl.org /pages/Lane-Public-Library/121261921222130 Hamilton • 300 North Third St., Hamilton, 513-8947156 Oxford • 15 S. College Ave., Oxford, 513-523-7531 Fairfield • 1485 Corydale Drive, Fairfield, 513-8583238

Summer reading programs, kids’ book clubs, homework help, a bookmobile service, and monthly programming.

Public Library of Cincinnati & Hamilton County 513-369-6900 • cincinnatilibrary.org /CincinnatiLibrary @cincylibrary

Offering a variety of free educational programs for all ages at 41 locations, including story times, Tales to Tails Read-Alouds, science fair workshops, free homework assistance both on-location seven days a week and online 24/7, chemistry demonstrations, programs for teens, and digital books.

Warren County Libraries co.warren.oh.us/county/libraries.htm

Cold Spring • 3920 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring, 859-781-6166

Six branches offer story times, summer reading programs, homework help, college advice for teens, and Ohio Achievement Practice Tests.

Carico/Fort Thomas • 1000 Highland Ave., Fort Thomas, 859-572-5033

MUSEUMS

Newport • 901 E. Sixth St., Newport, 859-572-5035

Behringer-Crawford Museum 1600 Montague Road, Devou Park, Covington 859-491-4003 • bcmuseum.org /pages/Behringer-Crawford-Museum/92648013713 @BCMuseum

Offering homework help, story times, reading clubs, and special events, including classes, game nights and craft projects.

Preserving the regional history of Northern Kentucky, including its natural, cultural and visual and performing arts heritage. Family activities include monthly Tot Tuesdays, Super Sundays, fossil hunts and scout programs.

22 September 2011

CF 18-23 (SmartList).indd 22

Cincinnati Art Museum (CAM) 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati 513-721-ARTS (2787) • cincinnatiartmuseum.org /cincinnatiartmuseum @cincyartmuseum

Families can take advantage of special tours like Family ARTventures and Family First Sundays, which include hands-on art making activities, or just meet in the Artworld for programs inspired by the CAM’s collections and special exhibitions.

Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal 1301 Western Ave. 513-287-7000 • cincymuseum.org /cincymuseum @CincyMuseum

Cincinnati Museum Center has programming for all ages and can grow with your children. Children who visit at a young age can enjoy interactive family workshops like the Sprouts Institute in Duke Energy Children’s Museum, then, as they get older, enjoy other offerings. In the Cincinnati History Museum, they can become detectives and solve mysteries in the museum with the C.U.T Detective Agency, and in the Museum of Natural History & Science they can take part in Explorers University and learn about anything from dissection, microscopes, to physics.

Contemporary Arts Center 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati 513-345-8400 • contemporaryartscenter.org /ContemporaryArtsCenter @CincyCAC

The UnMuseum includes an interactive gallery, handson art projects, and special programs that allow parents and children to make art together. The UnMuseum also offers free admission to children under age 3.

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center 50 East Freedom Way, Cincinnati 513-333-7500 • freedomcenter.org /FreedomCenter @FreedomCenter

Offering special programs for families including plays, dramatic readings, musicians and special exhibitions. The Freedom Center also offers school group tours and educator resources.

Taft Museum of Art 316 Pike St., Cincinnati 513-241-0343 • taftmuseum.org /taftmuseumofart @taftmuseum

In addition to the Families Create programs where children and parents learn about and make art together, the Taft offers outreach programs to Cincinnati schools, the Artists Reaching Classrooms initiative, youth art studio workshops and special gallery tours and lectures.

Find more opportunities online at cincinnatifamilymagazine. com or nkyfamily.com.

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:33 PM

Find us on the

Apple app store! Creating BEAUTIFUL SMILES

Every Day!

BEST OF PARENTING

READER’S CHOICE AWARDS Cincinnati Family Magazine

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children get an orthodontic check-up by the age of 7. Our new patient visits are complimentary, so call us today for your new patient visit.

Cincinnati Location

10475 Reading Road, Suite 203

513-821-1625 West Chester Location

7242 Tylers Corner Drive, Suite A

513-777-7060 cincinnatiorthodontics.com

the

EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT FAIR2011 November 5, 2011 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sycamore Plaza (across from Kenwood Towne Centre) Presented by:

family & family CINCINNATI

NK Y

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 18-23 (SmartList).indd 23

September 2011 23

8/17/11 3:33 PM

GALLOP AGAIN

Horse & Pony Lessons • Ages 3 - 12 • Private Lessons - $25 • Preschool/Daycare/K-12 • Field Trips • Group - Call for Details • Mommy and Me Classes • Fall Festival coming in November Sunday October 9th 1 day camp 10-4 • Birthday Parties • Preschool/Daycare Field Trips • Special Needs Classes & More! • Earn Your Scouting Badges 513-312-5419 prez74@hotmail.com www.gallopagain.com

BEST OF

PARENTING On-site group READER’S CHOICE AWARDS music classes Cincinnati Family Magazine available for your preschool or daycare for children ages 6 months to 5 years

locally owned and operated by degreed teachers

Enroll now for classes prime lesson times are filling quickly!

(513) 545-7125

www.themusicfactoryonline.com

Improve K-6 Science Proficiency At Your School! In-Class “Field Trip” Workshops* Teachers trust Mad Science to spark imaginative learning in classroom with cutting edge, interactive programming. Inquiry based, hands-on programs meet national and state proficiency

After-School Programs*

Learn Piano, Guitar & Voice Lessons from Your Own Home!

standards, and enhance your school’s science curriculum.

These hands-on imaginative sessions will get your kids excited about science.

• Parent funded weekly 1-hour sessions with Proficiency test correlations (4-8 week sessions available). • Create your own model rockets, periscopes and slime... it’s hands-on! • Learn the science behind electricity, light, taste buds, bugs and so much more!

*We Deliver To Your

We also offer “edu-taining” Special Event Assembly programs for groups of 50-500!

Highly-qualified Teachers Traditional & Suzuki Lessons $30,000 Lending Library Optional Recitals Flexible Scheduling Lessons for all ages

School/Center! References available

Featuring Piano Voice & Guitar

Celebrating 15 Years!

Piano Lessons In Your Home

(513) 860-3540

Sparking Imaginative Learning

www.pianolessonsinyourhome.com

513-793-6784

www.madscience.org/Cincinnati

Great Kids. Great Results.

Learn more about St. Ursula Villa...

••• • Coffees Nov. 2nd ••• Wednesday, •• Thursday, Nov. 4th •• 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. •• Highlighting Montessori •• Highlighting Junior High – and Traditional •• Grades 7 and 8 Preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds •• Tuesday, Nov. 16th •• Monday, Nov. 7th •• 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. •• Showcasing Traditional Showcasing Junior High Kindergarten through 6th Grade •• • Grades 7 & 8 Wednesday, Nov. 17th ••• 3660 Vineyard Vineyard Place Place Thursday, Nov. 10th 3660 •• 8:30 –– 10:00 10:00 a.m. a.m. Cincinnati, OH 45226 45226 8:30 •• Cincinnati, OH Featuring Montessori and • Featuring Traditional Traditional Preschool for (513) 871-7218 871-7218 (513) Kindergarten through 6th ••• 3- and 4-year-olds •• Grade • Informational Informational Coffees

St. Ursula Ursula Villa Villa is: is: St. Catholic and and ·· Catholic

Coeducational Coeducational Preschool through through ·· Preschool 8th Grade Grade 8th Whole Child Child Education Education ··Whole ChampionshipAthletics Athletics ·· Championship FamilyAtmosphere Atmosphere ·· Family Academic Excellence Excellence in in ··Academic the Ursuline UrsulineTradition Tradition the Outstanding High High ·· Outstanding School Preparation Preparation School

For more information, visit www.stursulavilla.org 24 September 2011

CF 24-27 fall activity listings.indd 24

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:34 PM

Academy of Music and Dance

8374 Princeton Glendale Road, West Chester 513-829-2345 • wcaomd.com Music lessons for all ages in piano, voice, guitar, drums, strings, winds, and brass . Recreational and competitive dance classes in bal let, tap, jazz, hip-hop and more . Preschool Music Pups classes for ages birth - 4 yrs . with a care giver. Please call for a free sample class .

Allegro Dance Arts and Apparel

502 Old State Route 74, Cincinnati 513-528-5578 • allegrodancearts.webs.com Offering instruction in ballet, Scottish Highland, hip-hop, jazz, tap, lyrical and more. Ages 3 - adult, beginner to advanced. Competition is a vailable for Scottish Highland Dancers . We sent a student to nationals in 20 10 for Highland dancing; only 100 qualify to go to Nationals in the US each year! Visit our shop for a full range of dance shoes , clothing and supplies .

Baldwin Music Education Center

3799 Hyde Park Ave., Cincinnati 513-351-1109 • baldwinmusiceducenter.com The Baldwin Music Education Center, a division of Music Learning Center, Inc., has been ser ving the tri-state area for more than 45 y ears. Speciallydesigned preschool group music classes are offered for students ages 6 mos . - 4 yrs. and piano classes for 5 yrs. and older. All classes are taught by trained music educators and piano pedagogues. Classes are offered 6 days a week year round. Convenient location in Hyde P ark/Oakley and family discounts .

Bethany School

555 Albion Ave., Cincinnati 513-771-7462 • bethanyschool.org Highly diverse student population. We offer ser vices to students in grades K - 8, including before- and after-school care, tutoring, athletics, wireless laptop computers, a state-of-the-art computer lab, Spanish classes and elective courses. Student/teacher ratio is 15:1. Open House on Nov. 6 and Feb. 12, 2 - 4 p.m.

Brain Balance Achievement Center of Cincinnati

513-257-0705 • brainbalancecenters.com Groundbreaking program combining sensor y motor, cognitive and nu trition coaching into one solution for children ages 4 17 with ADD, autism, dyslexia and other lear ning/processing disabilities.

Buckeye Online School for Success

866-642-9237 • go2boss.com Serving all Ohio students grades K - 12 with individualized education planned for each student’s needs and abilities. Variety of curriculum choices allows the flexibility to work with each family’s schedule. Tuition free. Enrollment ongoing.

CCM Preparatory Department University of Cincinnati

Children’s Meeting House

927 O’Bannonville Road, Loveland 513-683-4757 • childrensmeetinghousemontessori.com For 37 years, CMH has provided a Montessori program education children ages 3 - 12. This AMS-affiliated school is located on 300 acres of w ooded property, less than a mile from do wntown historic Loveland. Call for more information or to schedule a tour.

Cincinnati Ballet, Otto M. Budig Academy 1555 Central Pkwy., Cincinnati –and–

A Paid Advertising Directory

11444 Deerfield Road, Ste. A, Cincinnati 513-562-1111 • cballet.org

The region’s only pre-professional training pro gram combines professional instruction, performance oppor tunities and a strong connection to Cincin nati Ballet. Classes are held in the state-of-the-ar t studios where Cincin nati Ballet Compan y dancers rehearse . Ballet students frequently interact with company dancers, gaining insight into the life of a professional dancer.

Cincinnati Country Day School

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

Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center

4244 Hamilton Avenue, Cincinnati 513-591-2332 • theplaceforfamilies.com The CFEC, located in a cozy Victorian home, offers o ver 25 parentchild enrichment classes , weekly moms group and free parent ing workshops and stor y times. Enter the center - feel the lo ve!

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati 513-345-2242 • cincyplay.com Programs for young actors from pre-K - grade 12 include theater tours , acting classes, summer day camp sessions, the annual holiday show (A Christmas Carol) and the Rosenthal Ne xt Generation Theatre Series .

Cincinnati Public Schools

cps-k12.org Ohio’s highest-rated urban district – has become a national model of excellence by creating innovative and rigorous academic programs, exciting enrichment opportunities, and strong community partnerships that accelerate achievement and prepare students for lifelong success .

Cincinnati Waldorf School

513-556-2595 • ccm.uc.edu/prep The only nationally accredited community ar ts school in the area offering lessons, classes and performance opportunities in music, theater and dance. A faculty of 125 teach over 1,500 students. Programs held on UC campus at CCM as well as various locations throughout the area. Classes for all ages and levels, including pre-professional students desiring a career in the arts.

5555 Little Flower Ave., Cincinnati 513-541-0220 • cincinnatiwaldorfschool.org Offering a classical education for children pre-nurser y - grade 8. Qualified teachers dedicated to pro viding a rich, developmentally appropriate , experiential approach to education to inspire life-long lear ning and enable each student to fully develop their capacities. Observation tours at 9 a.m. on the third Tuesday of each month. Tuition assistance available. Ohio Ed Choice Scholarships available. Open House Nov. 12, Feb. 4 and Apr. 7, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Central Montessori Academy

The Compass School

1904 Springdale Road, Cincinnati, OH 45231 513-742-5800 • centralmontessoriacademy.com

Serving infants - grade 6. Students receive the priceless gifts of joyful scholarship and the tools to become motivated and self-disciplined lifelong lear ners who are students of both life and academic subjects. Children learn at their own pace, building self-esteem while being taught as individuals. Our program is academically rigorous while stressing life skills (i.e . critical thinking and courteous behavior). The result is motivated, self-disciplined lifelong-learners.

Chabad Hebrew School

3977 Hunt Road, Blue Ash 513-793-5200 • chscincinnati.com Chabad Hebrew School offers a stimulating y et friendly en vironment where children embrace their Jewish roots and gain a tr ue sense of Jew ish pride, no matter their level of obser vance or affiliation. Ages: 3 12. Time: Sundays, 9:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Half price for ages 3 - 5

The Child’s Place

4936 Old Irwin-Simpson Road, Mason 513-398-6928 • montacademy.org Montessori Early Childhood Pro gram with e xceptionally low ratios in nur turing environment. Our 2-acre campus pro vides bike and cart paths. Separate play areas for toddlers and preschoolers. Spanish and music classes offered. Full- and part-time available. AMS Affiliate.

9370 Waterstone Blvd., Cincinnati 513-683-8833 • thecompassschool.com Outstanding project-based curriculum. Offering full- and par t-time infant, toddler, pre-school, kindergarten and after-school programs. Degreed teachers, excellent parent communication and a welcoming family environment. Setting the standard in early care and education. Schedule your personal tour today!

Cornerstone Parent’s Day Out

7600 Princeton-Glendale Road, Liberty Twp. 513-874-0910 • cornerstonechurch.org Parent’s Day Out is a Christian-based pro gram enriched with numbers, shapes and colors provided in a safe, friendly and fun environment for children 6 mos. - 5 yrs. We offer morning and afternoon classes. All teachers are first aid and CPR certified.

Drake Planetarium and Science Center

2020 Sherman Avenue, Cincinnati 513-396-5578 • drakeplanetarium.org Email: pbowers@drakeplanetarium.org Come let your imagination soar! F eaturing our popular Le go ics, Architecture, Crazy Contraptions and Young Builders classes ence Adventure classes include Rockin’ Rockets, Battle Bots gineering, Amusement Park Science and Destination:

Robot. Sci, EnSpace.

Farmview Montessori Garden

3501 Tylersville Road, Hamilton 513-737-0479 • farmviewmontessori.com Individualized Montessori education. Offering both half- and full-day programs for children 2.5 - 6 yrs. in an enriched learning environment. Small student/ teacher ratio. Special needs pro grams available. Ser ving Fairfield, Mason, West Chester and surrounding areas . Call for an obser vation appointment.

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 24-27 fall activity listings.indd 25

Fall Activity and After-School Program Directory

Gallop Again Horse and Pony Lessons

11546 New Biddinger, Harrison 513-312-5419 Email: prez74@hotmail.com Join us for a w eek of camp! Ha ve fun, do crafts , ride horses daily and enjoy a mini sho w on the last da y. One-day camps on Jul. 21 and Aug. 28. Week-long camp Aug. 8 - 12, Mon. - Fri., 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. $200 for a week, sibling discount. Email for full calendar of events.

The Gardner School

9920 Carver Road, Cincinnati 513-985-9444 • thegardnerschool.com An award-winning, academically-focused preschool for ages 6 wks . through private full-day kindergarten. Our ear ly childhood education curriculum is age-appropriate and is among the highest standards in the industry. Your child will reach their full potential guided by our highly qualified, degreed teachers and may participate in such activities as sign language , the Be Smar t Kids computer program, dance, gymnastics, foreign languages and music and drama.

Indian Springs Academy of Music

9690 Cincinnati-Columbus Road, Cincinnati 513-779-7373 • indianspringsacademy.org Private instruction in piano, jazz piano, strings, voice, winds, band in struments and guitar. Offerings also include music theor y classes, Music LAB curricula (age-appropriate software to develop theor y, rhythm, ear training and music literature) and quar terly recitals.

Kinder Garden School

10969 Reed Hartman Hwy. Blue Ash 513-791-4300 • kindergardenschool.com

–and– 5900 West Chester Road, Ste. C, West Chester 513-874-3100 • kindergardenschool.com Ages 6 wks. - 6 yrs. Together with interaction of child,staff and family, we develop the complete child. We provide formative encouragement and knowledge with hands-on staff taking a personal interest in family and holistic education decisions for the child. Kinder Garden School is devoted to growing a child’s wish to flourish and learn by cultivating curiosity and problem-solving proficiency in a full, supportive, fertile, fun setting. ENLIGHTENMENT IS OUR MISSION.

King of Kings Lutheran Early Childhood Education Ministries

3421 Socialville-Foster Road, Mason 398-6089 • koklcms.org King of Kings Lutheran Ear ly Childhood Ministries offers Christian pro grams for ages 2 - 5 yrs. including an all-day Kindergarten program Mon. - Thu. The student/teacher ratio ranges from 5: 1 - 9: 1. Our cur riculum is based on the State Standards . Limited financial aid is available. Our Open House will be Jan. 30, 2012. Call for fur ther information.

The Little Gym

7318 Yankee Road, Liberty Twp.: 513-777-1110 8201 Arbor Square Drive, Mason: 513-204-1400 thelittlegym.com Teaching movement skills in a non-competitive environment to help build young children’s physical, social, emotional and intellectual skills. Programs are designed for ages 4 mos. - 12 yrs. and incorporate music with movement and learning.

The Mad Potter Madeira

7754 Camargo Road, Madeira 561-1888 • madpottercincinnati.com Pottery painting, parties and special events . Choose a piece , paint it and pick it up in a w eek. Special events include Kidz Nite and Ladies Nite . continued on page 26 ...

September 2011 25

8/17/11 3:34 PM

Arts, Education and Enrichment Directory A Paid Advertising Directory

Mad Science of Cincinnati

793-6784 • madscience.org/cincinnati Programs for Grades PreK - 6 with student teacher ration of 12 - 18:1 delivered to your school or center. Mad Science offers “edu-taining” inquiry-based, hands on, proﬁciency correlated “In-School Field Trip” workshops and parent funded after-school pro grams. Our Special Event Assembly programs are ideal for schools, community centers, and Boy/Girl Scout Troops Packs. Summer Camp and Birthday Party programs too.

Montessori Academy of Cincinnati

8293 Duke Blvd., Mason 513-398-7773 • montacademy.org Celebrating 22 years of individualized Montessori education. New 7.5 acre campus. State-chartered AMS Afﬁliate program serving ages 3 yrs . - grade 8. Both of our independent, non-sectarian schools pro vide a nur turing approach to a ver y diversiﬁed student body in outstanding facilities .

Montessori Center Room

2505 Riverside Dr., Cincinnati 513-321-3282 • montessoricenterroom.com A child-focused, AMS-afﬁliated, 41-year-old program for ages 3 - 6, with a student/teacher ratio of 10:1 for pre-K. Before- and after-care a vailable. Musikgarten offered weekly. Open House on Nov. 6 from 1 - 3 p.m.

Mother of Mercy High School

3036 Werk Road, Cincinnati 513-661-2740 • motherofmercy.org Mother of Mercy High School is a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. We offer colle giate block scheduling, 11 AP classes plus seven dual colle ge credit classes , state-of-the-art technology including a TV/broadcast studio, a top-notch athletic pro gram, ﬁve drama productions each y ear and o ver 20 e xtracurricular activities.

The Music Factory

513-545-7125 • themusicfactoryonline.com Offering educational group music classes for children ages 9 mos. - 5 yrs . onsite at your preschool, day care or summer camp.

Ohio Connections Academy

800-382-6019 • connectionsacademy.com A free, accredited, public education at-home pro gram for grades K - 12, offering support from state-certiﬁed teachers and the latest technology tools.

Ohio Virtual Academy/K12

866-339-9071 • k12.com/ohva Serving grades K - 12, we are a tuition-free , statewide eSchool that uses curriculum from K12 — the country’s leading provider of online curriculum. With its individualized approach, the K12 curriculum lets students adjust their learning styles to meet their needs . We also offer tutoring, special needs programs and opportunities for socialization through community events and outings. Named Parent’s Choice winner for best public high school in Ohio by Business Week and greatschools.net. Accredited by CITA and NCA CASI.

Piano Lessons In Your Home – Piano, Guitar and Voice Lessons

513-860-3540 • pianolessonsinyourhome.com Offering piano, guitar and voice lessons for all ages in your own home with e xperienced instructors in the Cincinnati area and in Northern Kentucky. Also offers free recitals, a ﬂexible make-up policy, an e xtensive music librar y and ﬂ exible scheduling.

Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Nursery School

5950 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati 513-631-0170 • prpc.org Professionally-qualiﬁed teachers provide active, expressive, child-centered learning experiences at this 3-star a ward-winning program. Choose two-, three-, four- or ﬁve-day morning or afternoon sessions for children 30 mos. - 5 yrs. Excellent ratios, degreed teachers and spacious, sunny classrooms await your preschooler. Parent and child classes are also vailable a for infants and toddlers.

Rock Quest Climbing Center

3475 E. Kemper Road, Cincinnati 513-733-0123 • rockquest.com Climbing is a great activity for kids of all ages . While kids are busy getting to the top of the wall, their minds are busy w orking other skills: problem solving, critical thinking, endurance, self conﬁ dence and tr ust.

Karate begins with courtesy

7762 Beechmont Ave. Suite A Cincinnati, OH 45255 (513) 232-1035 yoseikananderson.com

Classes available for adults and children, in a family friendly atmosphere. Visit our website or call for class schedule. Mention this ad and receive $10 off your first month membership.

11136 Oak St., Sharonville 513-554-3555 • stmichaelsharonville.org

A National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. Providing a traditional Catholic education for grades K - 8. Students use a state-of-the-art computer lab and have Spanish classes as part of the daily curriculum. Classrooms are equipped with SmartBoard technology. Financial aid is available. Enrichment programs in reading and math,extended day care and a variety of other after school activities, including Mad Science, Young Rembrandts, band, choir, scouts and sports.

St. Ursula Villa

3660 Vineyard Place, Cincinnati 513-871-7218 • stursulavilla.org Serving ages 3 yrs . - grade 8, St. Ursula Villa provides academic e xcellence in the Ursuline tradition. Emphasis is on the individual, family atmosphere, whole-child development, outstanding high school preparation, and championship athletics . Student:teacher ratio of 10:1, and a school enrollment of 495. Informational Coffees No v. 2, 7 and 10.

Tippi Toes

Multiple locations 513-578-1280 • tippitoesdance.com Our award winning dance classes will be sure to get your children mo ving and dancing more than ever before

Yoseikan Anderson Karate School

7762 Beechmont Ave., Ste. A, Cincinnati 513-232-1035 • yoseikananderson.com Family martial arts for fun, ﬁtness and self defense . “Chito-Ryu” Karate is a traditional form focusing on self defense , self discipline , self a wareness and self control, while helping to impro ve ﬂexibility, strength and balance. Students will lear n the physical, psychological and philosophical aspects of Chito-Ryu Karate. Come and explore a well rounded martial art.

Xavier University Montessori Lab School

3800 Victory Parkway, Cincinnati 513-745-3402 • xavier.edu/montessori-lab-school Located on the Xavier University campus, the Lab School was established in 1966 to serve as a model of best practice in Montessori education.The school continues to serve in its mission to respectfully educate a diverse community of children by cultivating a love for learning using the philosophy of Dr.Montessori.

FREE DANCE WEEK

and ends with courtesy…

Yoseikan Chito-Ryu style karate designed to Anderson strengthen the body, mind and spirit. Karate School

St. Michael School

OCTOBER 3–9, 2011

All children’s and adult classes are free at both locations! For more information visit cballet.org/academy or call 513-562-1111 Subject to availability. Complimentary offer for new students only.

Indian Springs

Academy of Music Piano • Voice • Strings • Winds • Guitar Music Theory • Music History Home School Program Carnegie Hall - Royal Conservatory Achievement Program 9690 Cincinnati-Columbus Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241

513-779-7373 | indianspringsacademy.com 26 September 2011

CF 24-27 fall activity listings.indd 26

Photography: Peter Mueller, Isabel Hunter, Oliver Endahl

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:34 PM

It’s not too late to register!

Call for a Free Sample Class

WEST CHESTER

ACADEMY

OF MUSIC AND DANCE

MUSIC LESSONS DANCE CLASSES ACTING CLASSES PRESCHOOL MUSIC BIRTHDAY PARTIES Visit wcaomd.com for details • Register by phone: 513-829-2345

We offer Fun, Encouraging, and High-Energy Dance Classes! Mommy & Me * Baby Ballet * Ballet, Tap, Jazz * Hip Hop BEST OF PARENTING READER’S CHOICE BEST OF AWARDS PARENTING Cincinnati Family

Magazine READER’S CHOICE AWARDS Cincinnati Family Magazine

For Girls and Boys, Ages 18 months - 12

513-578-1280 www.TippiToesDance.com

VOTED CINCINNATI’S BEST DANCE STUDIO

We offer classes at various locations in Greater Cincinnati

express

YOURSELF

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

Acting CLASSES

• For children and adults! • Classes offered at Clifton Cultural Center, Mayerson JCC and the Playhouse. • All levels welcome! Learn in a fun, no-fail environment.

Registration and information:

call 513/421-3888 or visit www.cincyplay.com

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 24-27 fall activity listings.indd 27

September 2011 27

8/17/11 3:34 PM

Totter’s Otterville 20% off

Birthday Parties

(with mention of this ad) • 2 hours hosted • All day admission for guest

Kids DO come with an

ruction manual! inst

ard-winning r aw blications Youenting pu par

• Invitations and paper products • Free return visit for Birthday recipients

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com nkyfamily.com

4314 Boron Dr. Covington, KY 41015 859- 491-1441

COME ONE, COME ALL... WE ARE NOW REGISTERING FOR THE FALL!

If you are planning to register for SPRING, Don’t wait too long to do your thing! Announcing our 2011/2012 workshop season. Registration is open! All Workshops are Musicals and end with a weekend friends and family performance. Ages 4-15.

• 1 slice pizza and drink for guests

Call for details and to schedule your party

Clifton Performance Theatre

Birthday Parties After School Fun ut Ladies Night O kes Personalized Keepsa 10-$16 Party Packages

September: Peter Pan October: Snow White November: Oliver November/December: - A Christmas Carol January: Robin Hood February: Jungle Book March: Snow White April: Brer Rabbit

cliftonperformancetheatre.com * 513-861-SHOW “the kids were absolutely thrilled! trevor says it was the best party he’s ever had ... or been to!” - pam owens F ST O G

DREN LOVE CHIL E ADABRA! CHARLI C

BE ENTINOICE PARDER’SRCDHS y il REA AWAati Fam e

cincinnati’s finest family magician

MADEIRA

7754 Camargo Road 513.561.1888 MadPotterCincinnati.com Minutes from Kenwood Town Center

zin

cinn a Cin Mag

(513) 702-4400

amazing magic, audience participation and silly fun. your child is the STAR of the show! harvey the live rabbit appears.

2 FREE

Pizza’s Monday and Tuesday Only

5 FREE

Goodie Bags! Good for any party.

MUST BOOK BY 10/15/11. Valid Mondays and Tuesdays only. Not valid on Holidays. MUST mention promo code SeptPizza or have coupon to redeem . Valid at Pump It Up of West Chester only. May not be combined with other offers or promotional discounts. Not valid with the Ultimate Upgrade

Get 5 Free Goodie Bags when goodie bags are purchased for your entire party. Mention promo code GOODIESEPT to redeem. Valid at Pump It Up of West Chester only. May not be combined with other offers or promotional discounts. Not valid with the Ultimate Upgrade

Check out our New Open Play Hours: Mon & Wed 3:30p-5:30p, Tues & Fri 10a-12p, and Thurs 5:30pm - 7pm

Come and see why Pump It Up is Cincinnati’s #1 party venue! 100% Private Parties Trained/Dedicated Team of Staff Stress-Free for Party Host

28 September 2011

CF 28-40 (Sept-Cal).indd 28

Safe & Clean Environment Gigantically Fun Inflatables Brightly Decorated Party Room

For more coupons become a FAN of Pump It Up - West Chester on Facebook For more coupons, 513.829.7867 become a FAN Pump It Up of West Chester of Pump It Up - West Chester 7724 Service Center Dr West Chester, OH 45069 on Facebook!

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:37 PM

VISIT CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM OR NKYFAMILY.COM FOR PARENT GROUPS AND LIBRARY EVENTS

september

CALENDAR

30 daily listings | 38 coming soon | 38 now playing | 39 ongoing events (AR) next to a listing indicates Advanced Registration Required

IT’S DANCEY DANCE TIME! Tuesday, Sept. 20

reschoolers and their parents rock out with the Yo Gabba Gabba crew in their show It’s Time to Dance! Enjoy favorite songs, along with new ones, in a stateof-the-art, high-energy production featuring DJ Lance Rock, Brobee, Foofa, Muno, Plex and Toodee. Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut St.; 3 and 6 p.m.; $35 and $45. Call 513-621-2787 or visit cincinnatiarts.org.

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 28-40 (Sept-Cal).indd 29

September 2011 29

8/17/11 3:37 PM

daily listings

MINI-TRIATHLON (AR)

SPOTLIGHT: THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Wednesday, Sept. 7

augh along with this tale of overachieving angst as six adolescents compete in a spelling championship featuring fun tunes like “My Friend, The Dictionary” and “I Speak Six Languages.” Showboat Majestic, Public Landing below the Mehring Way entrance; Sept. 7 - 25; $17 adults, $16 seniors and students. Call 513-241-6550 or visit cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com.

Last day to register. Challenge your family and friends (and yourself) to a 1.5-mile walk or run, a 3.5-mile bike ride and a one-mile paddle, where a cookout awaits you at the finish. Winton Woods, 10245 Winton Road; 10 a.m. on Sept. 4; $20 per person plus a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

FREE MODEL AIRCRAFT SHOW

See daring acrobatics performed by model jets, helicopters and war birds during a three-day air show of giant scale radio-controlled aircraft. National Museum of the United States Air Force, 1100 Spaatz St., WrightPatterson AFB; 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. today - Sept. 4; 937-2551283 or nationalmuseum.af.mil.

3 friday FREE Blue Moon of Kentucky

The Kentucky Symphony Orchestra’s Boogie Band wraps up the summer season with foot-stompin’ favorites from Rascal Flatts, Alabama, Sugarland, Gretchen Wilson and others. Bandshell, Devou Park, 1215 Park Road, Covington; 7:30 p.m.; admission is free, but a $5 donation is appreciated; 859-431-6216 or kyso.org.

CREEK ROMP (AR)

Discover the marvels of the stream in a guided, in-stream hike. Search for mussels, crayfish and snakes while netting minnows and searching for green heron and kingfisher. Best for ages 5 and older. Cincinnati Nature Center at Long Branch Farm and Trails, 6926 Gaynor Road, Goshen; 1 - 3 or 4 - 6 p.m.; free members, $6 adults, $3 children; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

FREE DANCE CLASSES

Please see Sept. 1 for details.

FREE GERMAN STORY TIME

1 thursday FREE BARNES & NOBLE STORYTIME

Stop by the Children’s Department for a Labor Day story time including Curious George Takes a Job and Sid the Squid and the Search f or the Pefect Job. Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 7800 Montgomery Road; 11 a.m.; 513-794-9320.

FREE BLUE MANATEE STORY TIME

Join in for stories, songs and fun with the gang from blue manatee children’s bookstore. Lululemon, 3437 Michigan Ave.; 11 a.m.; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

FREE DANCE CLASSES

Ballet Theatre Midwest invites dancers of all ages to take a free class, learn about programs and performances and register for the fall semester in this open house. Ballet Theatre Midwest, Spencer Township Hall, 3833 Eastern Ave.; today - Sept. 3; 513-520-2334 or ballettheatremidwest.com.

GLOW DISC GOLF (AR)

Last day to register. Play a game of disc golf at night on a glowing course. Winton Woods, 10245 Winton Road; 8 p.m. on Sept. 2; $5 to play, $5 to rent a disc, plus a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

30 September 2011

CF 28-40 (Sept-Cal).indd 30

HANDS ON NATURE

Play facilitators provide a variety of tools and toys for children to use while explore the Nature Playscape. Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 5 - 7 p.m. today and Sept. 8; free members, $8 adults, $3 ages 4 - 12, $6 seniors and active military; free ages 3 and younger; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

NOISES OFF

Please see “Now Playing” on page 38 for details.

2 friday FREE DANCE CLASSES

Please see Sept. 1 for details.

GLOW DISC GOLF (AR)

Please see Sept. 1 for details.

LATE NIGHT FISHING

Catch some fish after dark. Voice of America Park, 7850 VOA Park Drive, West Chester; dusk to 1 a.m.; a motor vehicle permit ($5 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-755-4402 or yourmetroparks.net.

MANATEA TIME WITH MAX (AR)

Ages 2 - 6 can enjoy stories, tasty treats from the decafe and get a picture with Max from Rosemary Wells’ Max and Ruby. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 10:30 a.m.; $4 per child; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

Learn simple German vocabulary through stories and songs. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 10:30 a.m.; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks. com.

GOD OF CARNAGE

Please see “Now Playing” on page 38 for details.

THE GRAPE ESCAPE

Spend a day on the farm and enjoy everything grape — including grape ice cream, fresh grapes, homemade pies, you-pick grapes, hayrides, a children’s maze, farm tours and more. Hidden Valley Fruit Farm, 5474 N. SR 48; 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. today - Sept. 5; free admission and parking; 513-932-1869 or hiddenvalleyfruitfarm.com.

FREE MANATOTS WITH MAX

Bring your little ones ages 4 and younger for stories songs and fun with stories featuring Max, star of Max and Ruby by Rosemary Wells. Meet Max and get your picture taken, too! Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 9:30 a.m.; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

MAX’S BUNNY PARTY (AR)

Ages 3 - 6 can turn into a bunny, make some Bunny Money, have a snack and play some bunny party games. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 1 p.m.; $8 per child; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks. com.

FREE OPEN HOUSE

Visit the Erickson Academy of Irish Dance, meet the teachers and watch some advanced dancers “jig it up.” Erickson Academy of Irish Dance, 673 Wilmer Ave., Ste. D; 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.; 513-232-1366 or ericksonirishdance. com.

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:37 PM

PRAIRIE PROMENADE

Join a naturalist for a stroll through the prairie to discover a unique community of plants and animals. Seasongood Nature Center, Woodland Mound, 8250 Old Kellogg Road; 2 p.m.; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

RAPTORS

A variety of local, native raptors are on display all weekend, including some from rescue organization RAPTOR, Inc. Cameras and sketchpads are welcome. Mitchell Memorial Forest, 5401 Zion Road, Cleves, 12 4 p.m. Sat; Shawnee Lookout, 2008 Lawrenceburg Road, 12 - 4 p.m. Sun; Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, 3455 Poole Road, 12 - 4 p.m. Mon; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

SUMMER SEND OFF

Stop by the Harbor for an end-of-summer celebration including games, a scavenger hunt, and some animals to meet. Winton Woods, 10245 Winton Road; 2 - 4 p.m.; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

4 sunday BATS OF OHIO

Learn about these night creatures and their importance in nature. Sharon Centre, Sharon Woods, 11450 Lebanon Road; 2 p.m.; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

CHEETAH RUN

Run wild at the Zoo and enjoy all the plants and animals in a 5K race, plus a Cheetah Club Fun Run for ages 12 and younger. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St.; 8 a.m.; $25 pre-registration for Zoo members, $30 for nonmembers and race day registration; 513-4741399 or cincinnatizoo.org.

EXPLORERS’ UNIVERSITY

RUBBER DUCK REGATTA

Cheer on your rubber duckie as he races against over 125,000 fellow ducks along the Ohio River. The owner of the winning duck wins a 2012 Honda Civix LX Sedan, and maybe even $1 million. Other prizes will be awarded, and the proceeds help to feed hungry kids and families throughout the Tri-State. Ducks may be purchased up to 2 p.m. Purple People Bridge, downtown Cincinnati side; 3 p.m.; $5 per duck or $25 for a family of ducks (six ducks); 513-482-4520 or rubberduckregatta.org.

5 monday GORGE TRAIL HIKE

Join the naturalist for a hike to discuss glaciers, plants and animals. Sharon Centre, Sharon Woods, 11450 Lebanon Road; 2 p.m.; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

HANDS ON NATURE: COLOR AND LIGHT

Use prisms, mirrors, color wheels and reflections to explore the Nature Playscape. Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. today and 1 - 3 p.m. Sept. 18; free members, $8 adults, $3 ages 4 - 12, $6 seniors and active military; free ages 3 and younger; 513-831-1711 or cincynature. org.

JEEPERS CREATURES

Please see Sept. 4 for details.

NATURALISTS NEEDED

Do you have a budding naturalist in the family? Bring in a special nature item and take a few minutes to educate the audience (with a little help from the naturalist). Seasongood Nature Center, Woodland Mound, 8250 Old Kellogg Road; 2 p.m.; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

MINI-TRIATHLON (AR)

POND LIFE

Look at creatures found in the pond and those that live near this water world. Highfield Discovery Garden, Glenwood Gardens, 10397 Springfield Pike; 10:45 a.m., 1 and 4 p.m. today - Sept. 10, 1 and 4 p.m. Sept. 11; $7 adults, $5 seniors an ages 2 - 12, plus a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

FREE SOLO (AR)

Single parents are invited to meet other parents for encouragement and support. Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center, 4244 Hamilton Ave.; 6 - 8 p.m. today and Sept. 15; 513-591-2332 or theplaceforfamilies.com.

RAPTORS

Please see Sept. 3 for details.

FREE DEMO MUSIC CLASS (AR)

Kids ages 0 - 5 and a caregiver are invited to enjoy a mixed age music class. Space is limited, please RSVP. Kids First Sports Center, 7900 E. Kemper Road; 9:30 a.m. today and 10:30 a.m. Sept. 10; 513-652-6267 or studiomusictime@gmail.com or musictimestudio.net.

FRIDAY NIGHT FLOAT (AR)

Last day to register. Enjoy a kayak outing while learning some history about the lake. For ages 8 and older accompanied by a parent. Winton Woods, 10245 Winton Road; 7 p.m. on Sept. 9; $10 plus a a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

FREE NATIVITY MUSIC TOGETHER (AR)

Ages birth - 5 years and their caregivers are invited to discover the magic of music with songs, dances, chants and instruments in this sample class from Music Together. Nativity School, 5936 Ridge Ave.; 9:15 and 10:30 a.m., or 4 or 7 p.m. today and 10 a.m. on Sept. 8; 513-531-7742 or mjoan.mtbc@fuse.net or http://school. nativity-cincinnati.org.

NATURE STORIES: APPLES

Please see “Now Playing” on page 38 for details.

WALK IN THE WOODS

Join the naturalist for a walk along the Timberlakes Trail to learn ways to observe wildlife. Miami Whitewater Forest, 9001 Mt. Hope Road; 10 a.m.; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

8 thursday BABY AND TODDLER MUSIC (AR)

Ages 0 - 4 and a grown-up will move, sing songs, and enjoy time together. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; call for time today and Sept. 22; $8 per child; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

FREE BARNES & NOBLE STORYTIME

Stop by the Children’s Department for a Grandparents’ Day story, including Walk With Grandpa and Gabby and Grandma Go Green. Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 7800 Montgomery Road; 11 a.m.; 513-794-9320.

(please turn the page)

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 28-40 (Sept-Cal).indd 31

Please see “Spotlight” on page 30 for details.

NEXT TO NORMAL

6 tuesday

Please see Sept. 2 for details.

THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE

SPROUTS INSTITUTE: SONGS AND STORIES

RAPTORS

JEEPERS CREATURES

LIAR’S CLUB

7 wednesday

Please see Sept. 3 for details. Bring your little ones ages birth - 3 years for stories, songs and finger-play in a research-based, literacy development program. Duke Energy Children’s Museum, Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, 1301 Western Ave.; 10 a.m.; $5 members, $7 nonmembers plus admission (all-museum pass $12.50 adults, $11.50 seniors, $8.50 ages 3 - 12, $4.50 toddler pass); 513-2877000 or cincymuseum.org.

Join the naturalist as she offers information on nature artifacts — is she fooling you or telling the truth? Guess correctly and you could win a prize. Seasongood Nature Center, Woodland Mound, 8250 Old Kellogg Road; 2 p.m.; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

Bring your yogi youngster to learn to stretch, relax and have fun. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 10 a.m.; $5 per child; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

Parents and their little ones are invited to join the naturalist for stories about everyone’s favorite fall fruit. Sharon Centre, Sharon Woods, 11450 Lebanon Road; 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

Ages 9 - 15 can learn the basics of vertebrate anatomy by studying the inner workings of a frog in a frog dissection class. Museum of Natural History and Science, Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, 1301 Western Ave.; 2 - 3 p.m.; $5 members, $7 nonmembers plus admission (all-museum pass $12.50 adults, $11.50 seniors, $8.50 ages 3 - 12, $4.50 toddler pass); 513-287-7000 or cincymuseum.org. Meet scaly and slimy residents of the parks. Visitor Center, Miami Whitewater Forest, 9001 Mt. Hope Road; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. today and Sept. 5; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

YOGA FOR YOUNGSTERS (AR)

September 2011 31

8/17/11 3:37 PM

daily listings

DOG DAYS OF ST. BERNARD

Bring your pooch for a swim in the city pool (2 - 3 p.m.) and check out SPCA mobile adoptions, dog microchipping, a patriotic dog costume contest, K-9 demos, treats and more. Vine Street Park Pavilion, Vine St.; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 513-242-7770.

SPOTLIGHT: THE FROG PRINCE Saturday, Sept. 10

THE FROG PRINCE

Please see “Spotlight” this page for details.

GARDNER SCHOOL CONSIGNMENT SALE

rtReach, a division of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, presents The Frog Prince to kick off the Covedale’s Saturday Morning Children’s Series. Covedale Center for the Performing Arts, 4990 Glenway Ave.; 11 a.m.; $5. Call 513-241-6550 or visit cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com.

Parents can choose from name-brand items through size 8 for their child’s fall and winter wardrobe. The Gardner School of Blue Ash, 9920 Carver Road; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. today and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sept. 11; 513-985-9444 or thegardnerschool.com.

GLOW DISC GOLF (AR)

Please see Sept. 8 for details.

GREAT PROSTATE CANCER 5K

GLOW DISC GOLF (AR)

ST. SUSANNA FAMILY FESTIVAL

Last day to register. Play a game of disc golf during the evening on a glowing course. Winton Woods, 10245 Winton Road; 8 p.m. on Sept. 10; $5 to play, $5 to rent a disc, plus a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

Bring the whole family for rides, food, auctions, raffles, live music and entertainment, as well as games and Bingo. St. Susanna Parish, 500 Reading Road, Mason; 5 p.m. - 12 a.m. today, 4 p.m. - 12 a.m. Sept. 10, 12 - 10 p.m. Sept. 11; 513-398-3821.

HANDS ON NATURE

Dr. John Hutton talks about the ins and outs of the human body in this story time. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 10:30 a.m.; 513-7312665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

Please see Sept. 1 for details.

FREE NATIVITY MUSIC TOGETHER (AR)

Please see Sept. 7 for details.

NEW WORKS

Please see “Now Playing” on page 38 for details.

FREE THE STANDARD’S 2011 VOLUNTEER EXPO

Learn about volunteer efforts in this first-ever volunteer expo, designed to connect families to opportunities to do good and make a difference in the community. Fountain Square, 520 Vine St.; 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.; standard.com/ volunteer.

9 friday DAY OUT WITH THOMAS

All aboard! Bring the gang for a train ride with Thomas the Tank, a meeting with Sir Topham Hatt, plus stories, live music, fun with Mega Bloks and more. Lebanon Mason & Monroe Railroad, 127 S. Mechanic St., Lebanon; 9, 10 and 11 a.m. and 12, 1, 2 and 3 p.m. today - Sept. 11, Sept. 16 - 18; $14 - $18; 513-933-8022 or lebanonrr.com.

FRIDAY NIGHT FLOAT (AR)

Please see Sept. 7 for details.

GROWING UP A FARM KID (AR)

Last day to register. Ages 2 - 5 and their parents are invited for a three-day program that introduces families to Parky’s Farm with crafts, animals, stories, puppet shows and games. Register for one, two or all three days. Parky’s Farm, Winton Woods, 10073 Daly Road; 9:30 - 11 a.m. Sept. 12 - 14; $30 per child for three days, $25 per child for two days, $12.50 per child for one day plus a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

FREE SCIENCE STORY TIME

10 saturday ADVENTURES AROUND CINCINNATI

Authors Laura Hoevener and Terri Weeks discuss and sign their collaborative effort, Adventures Around Cincinnati: A Parent’s Guide to Unique and Memor able Places to Explore With Your Kids. Mariemont Branch Library, 3810 Pocahontas Ave.; 2 p.m.; 513-369-4467 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

FREE ATTACHMENT PARENT GATHERING (AR)

Meet other parents who practice attachment parenting and learn more about the philosophy in this monthly meeting. Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center, 4244 Hamilton Ave.; 4 - 6 p.m.; 513-591-2332 or theplaceforfamilies.com.

AUDITIONS FOR THE CHRISTMAS ANIMALS

Grades K - 6 are invited to try out for an upcoming production The Christmas Animals. Be prepared to sing a one-minute song, learn a dance combination, and read lines from the script. Beginners to advanced performers are welcome. LA Talent Academy, 240 Main St., Florence; 9 a.m. grades K - 3, 11 a.m. grades 4 - 6; 859-496-2088 or latalentacademy.com.

Support efforts to fight prostate cancer with a 5K walk and run. Urology Group, 4700 Smith Road, Norwood; 9 a.m.; $30 in advance; active.com or sprunning.com.

FREE LACTIVISTS (AR)

Get all your questions about breastfeeding answered in this educational and supportive group. Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center, 4244 Hamilton Ave.; 1:15 p.m.; 513591-2332 or theplaceforfamilies.com.

LA Talent Academy OPEN HOUSE

Check out their new facility, meet dance instructors and register for classes. LA Talent Academy; 240 Main St., Florence, KY; 1 - 3 p.m.; 859-496-2088 or latalentacademy.com.

MONARCH MANIA WEEKEND

Stop by the visitor center to learn about monarch butterflies, then enjoy crafts and a scavenger hunt. Miami Whitewater Forest, 9001 Mt. Hope Road; 12 - 4 p.m. today and Sept. 11; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

FREE MONARCH TAGGING

Join the naturalist for a talk on monarch butterflies and the science behind tagging them, then try to tag and release a few yourself. Chilo Lock #34 Park, 521 County Park Road, Chilo; 10:30 a.m.; 513-876-9013 or parks. clermontcountyohio.gov.

PANERATHON 5K

Help support the Children’s Hunger Alliance with a 5K run or walk, including a free Panera Kids Fun Run for the little ones. Panera Bread in Union Center, 9444 Civic Center Blvd., West Chester; 8:30 a.m. kids run, 9 a.m. 5K; $20; panerathoncincinnati@breadsoftheworld.com or panera-ohio.com.

RUN TO REMEMBER

BIRD CALLS AND HIKE

Run or walk a 5K in honor of family and friends and help raise funds for the Anderson Foundation for Parks and Recreation’s Playground Fun, followed by a free concert and awards ceremony. Beech Acres Park, 6910 Salem Road; 6 p.m.; $20 before Sept. 6, $25 day of race; 513388-4513 or andersonparks.com.

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS

Please see Sept. 9 for details.

Get beginner basics on how to identify birds by sight and sound. After a short walk, visit the bird feeder to practice. Visitor Center, Miami Whitewater Forest, 9001 Mt. Hope Road; 10 a.m.; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

ST. SUSANNA FAMILY FESTIVAL

Please see Sept. 9 for details.

FREE DEMO MUSIC CLASS (AR)

Please see Sept. 7 for details.

32 September 2011

CF 28-40 (Sept-Cal).indd 32

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:37 PM

SCOPEOUT 2011

All ages can check out the latest and greatest astronomical equipment offered by local and national vendors — also enjoy classes, educational materials for teachers, kids’ space crafts, Sun viewings, tours of the historic observatory and more. Cincinnati Observatory, 3489 Observatory Place; 12 - 11 p.m.; $6 adults, $4 kids, $20 dinner and lecture; visit website for schedule and pricing; 513-321-5186 or cincinnatiobservatory.org.

FREE SPANISH STORY TIME

Learn simple Spanish vocabulary through stories and songs. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 10:30 a.m.; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks. com.

FREE STAR WARS: THE MANATEE STRIKES BACK

Welcome illustrator and toy designer Chris Reiff as we talks about his newest Star Wars book, Darth Vader: A 3-D Reconstruction Log. Check out trivia, prizes for costumed children and more. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 3 p.m.; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

FREE TUMMY TO TUMMY (AR)

Learn about the benefits of wearing your baby in a sling or carrier and get some tips on purchasing the right sling for you. Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center, 4244 Hamilton Ave.; 11:15 a.m.; 513-591-2332 or theplaceforfamilies.com.

11 sunday

MONARCH MANIA WEEKEND

Please see Sept. 10 for details.

FREE PATRIOT DAY CONCERT (AR)

CINCINNATI DULCIMER SOCIETY

Join the Band of Flight and the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra for a Patriot Day Concert to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. National Museum of the United States Air Force, 1100 Spaatz St., Wright-Patterson AFB; 7:30 p.m.; free admission but tickets are required; 937-255-1283 or nationalmuseum. af.mil.

The Cincinnati Dulcimer Society entertains all ages with the sweet music of the mountain dulcimer. Sharon Centre, Sharon Woods, 11450 Lebanon Road; 3 p.m.; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

COMMEMORATING 9/11

REELABILITIES FILM FESTIVAL

Join community leaders to remember the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001, and unite and inspire a hopeful future with a piece of community artwork, songs from a children’s choir, and a procession to honor heroes. Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, 1301 Western Ave.; 12 - 4 p.m; 513-387-4660 or 9.11cincinnat@gmail.com.

Cincinnati is the first city to present this traveling program of the New York ReelAbilities Film Festival, featuring award-winning films and presentations that celebrate the lives, stories and art of people with disabilities. Enjoy a family day that includes music workshops from Melodic Connections, drama workshops from Dramakinetics, and make shadow puppets with Visionaries and Voices, and a 2 p.m. showing of the film Praying With Lior. Mayerson JCC, 8485 Ridge Road; 12:30 p.m.; visit site for ticket information; jointhej.org/reelabilities.

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS

Please see Sept. 9 for details.

DOG DAY AT THE BEACH

The wavepool is open for a doggy swim — check out pet vendors, games and contests for dogs and their owners. The Beach Waterpark, 2590 Waterpark Drive, Mason; 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $12 at the gate, $6 online in advance; 513-398-7946 or thebeachwaterpark.com.

ST. SUSANNA FAMILY FESTIVAL

Please see Sept. 9 for details.

FREE SENSORY SUNDAY (AR)

Private playgroups with Miss Meliss that keep babies 18 months and younger and their parents (one parent must be Jewish) engaged and entertained. Play dates include a snack. Dates and times are subject to change. Sensory Sunday is a partnership between Shalom Family, an initiative of The Mayerson Foundation for families in the Jewish Community with children 10 and younger, and the Mayerson JCC. The Gymboree Mason, 6209 Snide Road; 2 - 3 p.m. today and Sept. 25; myshalomfamily.org.

GARDNER SCHOOL CONSIGNMENT SALE Please see Sept. 10 for details.

GRANDPARENTS’ DAY (AR)

Bring your grandparents for a stroll through the gardens, pick a free bouquet of flowers, and sample treats from student chefs at the Art Institute of Ohio. Granny’s Garden School, 550 Loveland-Madeira Road; 1 - 5 p.m.; 513-324-2873 or grannysgardenschool.com.

(please turn the page)

Cincinnati USA Book Festival Saturday, October 22 10:00 a.m.— 4:00 p.m. K12 Kids’ Corner

5th Annual

Free Fun for the entire family! • Author Visits & Storytimes • Crafts, Activities & Music • Costumed Storybook Characters

Duke Energy Convention Center Downtown Cincinnati

booksbythebanks.org Kids’ Corner Sponsor

Kids’ Corner Media Sponsor

family CINCINNATI

&family NKY

K12.com Ohio Virtual Academy, online public school, powered by K12

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 28-40 (Sept-Cal).indd 33

September 2011 33

8/17/11 3:37 PM

daily listings

15 thursday FREE BARNES & NOBLE STORYTIME

SPOTLIGHT: THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT Sept. 16 - 18

Stop by the Children’s Department for an International Day of Peace story, including Can You Say Peace? and The Peace Book. Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 7800 Montgomery Road; 11 a.m.; 513-794-9320.

he Cincinnati Pops season opener features new Conductor, John Morris Russell, with special guests Tony Award winner Brian Stokes Mitchell (pictured here), American Idol star Katherine McPhee and the May Festival Chorus. Enjoy an early “PopUp” party in front of Music Hlal with fair-like fun, food and entertainment. Music Hall, 1241 Elm St.; 8 p.m. Sept. 16 and 17, 2 p.m. Sept. 18; tickets start at $25. Call 513-381-3300 or visit cincinnatipops.org.

Bring your little one for a glass art story time that includes a story from a beautiful picture book, read by Kelli Gleiner from blue manatee children’s bookstore, followed by a fused glass art activity. Brazee Street Studios, 4426 Brazee St.; 10 a.m.; $18; 513-321-0206 or brazeestreetstudios.com.

BLUE MANATEE AND BRAZEE (AR)

12 monday FULL MOON WALK (AR)

Ages 8 and older are invited to a night walk under the full moon, followed by some natural history readings. Cincinnati Nature Center at Long Branch Farm and Trails, 6926 Gaynor Road, Goshen; 7:30 p.m.; free members, $8 per participant; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

GROWING UP A FARM KID (AR) Please see Sept. 9 for details.

SPROUTS INSTITUTE: MISS MEGHAN’S MUSIC

Based on the Musikgarten curriculum, this program will introduce little ones ages 2 - 5 to music concepts using movement, instruments and kids’ own ideas. Duke Energy Children’s Museum, Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, 1301 Western Ave.; 10 a.m.; $5 members, $7 nonmembers plus admission (all-museum pass $12.50 adults, $11.50 seniors, $8.50 ages 3 - 12, $4.50 toddler pass); 513-287-7000 or cincymuseum.org.

13 tuesday FREE Brain Balance Seminar for Parents (AR)

Learn about the Brain Balance approach to working with kids affected by ADD, Autism and other neurobehavioral disorders. Parents have the opportunity to hear about the program and speak to parents of students currently enrolled. Brain Balance Achievement Center, 12084 Montgomery Road; 7 p.m.; 513-257-0705 or brainbalancecenters.com.

I SPY FALL JAMBOREE (AR)

Last day to register. Ages 3 - 5 will discover the signs of autumn with crafts, activities and a hike. Woodland Mound, 8250 Old Kellogg Road; 10 a.m. on Sept. 16; $4 plus a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

BUGS FOR LITTLE NATURALISTS

Ages 3 - 5 can learn all about bugs with a craft, hike and activities. Ellenwood Nature Barn, Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, 3455 Poole Road; 9:30 and 11 a.m.; $4 plus a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

DRAMANATEE (AR)

MAKE A BIGGER MESS AT THE MANATEE (AR)

Ages 4 - 7 can enjoy exploring art materials and methods while discovering the secret theme. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 4 p.m. today and Sept. 27; call for price; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

FREE MOMS CLUB OPEN HOUSE

Stay-at-home or part-time working moms in Alexandria, Cold Spring and southern Campbell County are invited to learn more about the MOMS Club of Alexandria during an open house that includes popsicles for kids, games and prizes for moms and more. Alexandria Community Park, 3965 Alexandria Drive, Alexandria; 2 p.m.; alexandriamoms@hotmail.com.

YOUNG ACTORS FALL CAMP (AR)

Mother of Mercy will offer a musical theatre and drama camp for boys and girls entering Grades 7 and 8, featuring guest instructors and final performances. Mother of Mercy High School, 3036 Werk Road; 4 p.m. Tue through Jan. 3; $150; 513-661-2740, ext. 421 or bodollo_l@motherofmercy.org or motherofmercy.org/ YAA.

14 wednesday ASTRONOMY CLUB

Ages 12 and older can join naturalist Sheila Riley to meet with and learn from the Members Astronomy Club. Bring telescopes if you have them, and be ready to go outside to look at the stars. Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 7 p.m.; free members, $8 adult, $6 seniors and active military; 513831-1711 or cincynature.org.

FREE PRESCHOOL STORY TIME

Bring your preschooler for a program in the park with stories, crafts and hikes with Naturalist Laura and Angie the Librarian to learn about monarch butterflies. Sycamore Park, 4082 State Route 132, Batavia; call for time; 513-876-9013 or parks.clermontcountyohio.gov.

Ages 3 - 6 pretend as they read and act out Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin, Jr. and John Archimbault. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 4 p.m.; $5 per child; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

FREE INFO SESSION FROM OHIO CONNECTIONS (AR)

Learn the benefits of attending a virtual school with staff from Ohio Connections Academy. Crowne Plaza Hotel Cincinnati North, 11320 Chester Road; 6:30 p.m.; 800382-6019 or connectionsacademy.com/OH1.

LOLLIPOP PROGRAM (AR)

Bring your little ones to learn about pioneer living with a story and a craft. Voice of America Park, 7850 VOA Park Drive, West Chester; 10:30 a.m.; $2 plus a valid motor vehicle permit ($5 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-867-5835 or yourmetroparks.net.

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME

Preschoolers will discover the world of squirrels with stories, activities and an outdoor romp and stomp. Winton Centre, Winton Woods, 10245 Winton Road; 10 a.m.; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

FREE SOLO (AR)

Please see Sept. 6 for details.

16 friday THE ADVENTURES OF TOM SAWYER

Please see “Spotlight” on page 36 for details.

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS

Please see Sept. 9 for details.

HOMESCHOOL PAWPAW DAY (AR)

Homeschool families can take a hike to the pawpaw grove, and learn the history, science and lore while searching for ripe fruit. Cincinnati Nature Center at Long Branch Farm and Trails, 6926 Gaynor Road, Goshen; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; $5 per participant; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

I SPY FALL JAMBOREE (AR)

Please see Sept. 13 for details.

34 September 2011

CF 28-40 (Sept-Cal).indd 34

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:38 PM

FREE OUTDOOR MOVIE

Bring your blankets and lawn chairs for a free movie in the park. Covington Water Park, Bill Cappel Youth Sports Complex, 43rd and Decoursey Streets; movie begins at dusk; covingtonky.gov.

ST. CLEMENT FESTIVAL

FREE FANCY NANCY SOIREE

Dress in your fanciest clothes, bring your tiara and join the Fancy Nancy party with games and crafts. Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 7800 Montgomery Road; 1 p.m.; 513-794-9320.

HANG AT THE J (AR)

Join the fun at St. Clement’s Festival and Pig Roast, including refreshments for purchase, booths and rides, live music, a Sports Bar area for Bengals fans, and lots of games. Vine Street Park, 4626 Vine St.; 7 - 11 p.m. today, 4 - 11 p.m. Sept. 17, 1 - 9 p.m. Sept. 18; 513-9614738 or 513-861-8299.

Grades K - 5 can enjoy an evening of games, swimming, crafts, a movie or special activity, and a kid-friendly dinner. Bring a swimsuit and towel. Mayerson JCC, 8485 Ridge Road; 7 - 11 p.m.; $20 members, $27 nonmembers; 513-761-7500 or mmiller@mayersonjcc. org or jointhej.org.

SPANISH PLAYDATE FOR PRESCHOOLERS (AR)

FREE LOREN LONG SIGNS OTIS AND THE TORNADO

Join Ana Gallegos-Yavorsky for a Spanish playdate that includes a lesson in Spanish, coloring, songs and play. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 10:30 a.m.; $5 per child; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT

Please see “Spotlight” on page 34 for details.

17 saturday BLUE GRASS FOR BABIES

Bring your little ones for some live bluegrass music, health and safety information, refreshments, craft tables, clowns, and presentations from Kindermusik by Cathy Seibert and the Charlie Cooke Soccer School. Seasongood Pavilion in Eden Park, 1600 Art Museum Drive; 4 - 8 p.m.; $12 adults, free children; bluegrassforbabies.com.

CONGENITAL HEART WALK

Approximately 40,000 babies are born with a congenital heart defect each year in the U.S. In honor of those children, and those who are now adults, The Children’s Heart Foundation and Adult Congenital Heart Foundation will sponsor a walk to raise funds for programs and research. Bring the entire family for a walk through the park for a good cause. Eden Park, 950 Eden Park Drive; 9 a.m. registration, 10 a.m. walk; 215-856-4373 or congenitalheartwalk.org.

CSI: NATURALLY

A crime has been committed in the park, and nature detective Jane Doe needs help. Examine forensic evidence, process the crime scene and help solve the case. Best for ages 8 and older. Visitor Center, Miami Whitewater Forest, 9001 Mt. Hope Road; 2 p.m.; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS

Please see Sept. 9 for details.

FREE FAMILY DAY

Celebrate the beginning of the fall while learning how to overcome gravity with stories and aerospace demos. National Museum of the United States Air Force, 1100 Spaatz St., Wright-Patterson AFB; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 937255-1283 or nationalmuseum.af.mil.

FAMILY FLOAT FEST

Families and canoeing enthusiasts can enjoy 3 - 4 hours of canoeing, a pig roast, music and entertainment and hiking in this event that supports Centerpoint Health’s Camp Possible and children’s programming. Morgan’s Outdoor Adventures, 7040 Whitewater River Land, Brookville, IN; 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $25 per adult, $75 for a family of four and $10 per additional child; 513-221-4673, ext. 253 or morganscanoe.com.

Loren Long reads, discusses and signs his new book, Otis and the Tornado. Line numbers will be given with purchase of the book. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 10:30 a.m.; 513-7312665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

NATURE PLAYSCAPE

Join a play facilitator in a one-hour class that teaches adults on how to best use the PlayScape and its elements for their children. Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 10 a.m. today and Sept. 21; free members, $8 adults, $6 seniors and active military; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

PREGNANCY PREP (AR)

Join a Q&A workshop led by a doula and midwifein-training to have your questions about pregnancy answered. Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center, 4244 Hamilton Ave.; 11:15 a.m.; a $3 donation is appreciated; 513-591-2332 or theplaceforfamilies.com.

ST. CLEMENT FESTIVAL

Please see Sept. 16 for details.

SATURDAY STREAM EXPLORATION

Journey to the stream to discover fossils, salamanders and other creatures that live under rocks. Bring a change of shoes, please. Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.; free members, $8 adults, $3 ages 4 - 12, $6 seniors and active military, free ages 3 and younger; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

SCRAPBOOKING DAY

The Lolli Pops Committee, a fundraising branch for the Middletown Symphony Orchestra, hosts a day of scrapbooking workshops and demos. Enjoy 12 hours of scrapbooking and a vendor fair. Monroe High School, 220 Yankee Road; 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; $50 for workshops, free vendor fair; middletownsymphony.org.

FREE TOUCH A TRUCK

Bring the little ones to explore all kinds of trucks, including construction vehicles, fire trucks and more. Fort Thomas Community Center, Tower Park, 950 South Fort Thomas Ave.; 12 - 3 p.m.; ftthomas.org.

TWEEN SCENE (AR)

Grades 6 - 8 are invited to take over the pool, gym and game room for an evening of food, fun and games. Mayerson JCC, 8485 Ridge Road; 7 - 11 p.m.; $20 members, $27 nonmembers; 513-761-7500 or info@ mayersonjcc.org or jointhej.org.

WEEKEND IN 1800s

Visit people from the year 1800, and explore the cabin and schoolhouse with early settlers from the Society of Northwest Longhunters. Historic Cabin-School Area, Shawnee Lookout, 2008 Lawrenceburg Road; 2 - 6 p.m. today and 2 - 5 p.m. Sept. 18; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 28-40 (Sept-Cal).indd 35

18 sunday DAY OUT WITH THOMAS

Please see Sept. 9 for details.

FALL TEAM FISHING TOURNAMENT (AR)

Stretch a line and compete against others for boathouse gift certificates and awards for top teams. Miami Whitewater Forest, 9001 Mt. Hope Road; 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. today and Sept. 24; $40 per team plus a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

FLOATING NATURE HIKE (AR)

Ages 6 and older and their families take a semi-guided canoe excursion to explore seldom-seen parts of the nature center. Bring your own life jackets for small children, please. Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 2 or 4 p.m.; free members, $5 per participant; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

HANDS ON NATURE: COLOR AND LIGHT

Please see Sept. 5 for details.

ST. CLEMENT FESTIVAL

Please see Sept. 16 for details.

WEEKEND IN 1800s

Please see Sept. 17 for details.

WINTON WOODS HORSE SHOW

Sign up to participate or just observe these competitions in Western and English Flat classes, Western Speed events, Hunter Jumper classes and more. Winton Woods Riding Center, 10073 Daly Road; 8 a.m.; free to observers, a valid Hamilton County Park District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-931-3057 or greatparks.org.

19 monday HAPPIEST BABY ON THE BLOCK (AR)

Learn about the easy way to soothe a fussy baby in this two-hour workshop. Bethesda North Hospital, 10500 Montgomery Road; 6:45 p.m.; $50 (includes Parent Kit and DVD); 513-475-4500 or trihealth.com.

SPROUTS INSTITUTE: YOUNG YOGIS

Ages 3 - 6 learn poses to increase balance, flexibility, coordination, strength and calming techniques with stores, songs and games. Duke Energy Children’s Museum, Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, 1301 Western Ave.; 10 a.m.; $5 members, $7 nonmembers plus admission (all-museum pass $12.50 adults, $11.50 seniors, $8.50 ages 3 - 12, $4.50 toddler pass); 513-287-7000 or cincymuseum.org.

20 tuesday MERCY GRADE SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL NIGHT

Grade school girls are invited to watch the Mercy Bobcats volleyball game against the Seton Saints. Cheer with other Mercy students and win prizes. Mother of Mercy High School, 3036 Werk Road; 6:30 p.m.; $6 adults, $3 senior, free ages 5 and younger, free admission for grade school girls; motherofmercy.org.

(please turn the page)

September 2011 35

8/17/11 3:38 PM

daily listings STOP DIABETES NIGHT AT THE BALLPARK

Cheer on the Reds as they take on the Houston Astros and join the Kroger Stop Diabetes Night at the Ballpark. A portion of your discounted ticket to the mezzanine level will benefit the American Diabetes Association. Great American Ball Park, 100 Joe Nuxhall Way; 7:10 p.m.; $15, purchase tickets at area Kroger stores or online; reds.com/stopdiabetes.

TOT TUESDAY

Bring your preschoolers for a morning focused on fall leaves, complete with stories and a fall craft. BehringerCrawford Museum, 1600 Montague Road, Devou Park, Covington; 10:30 a.m.; free members, $1 craft fee plus admission nonmembers ($7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 ages 3 - 17); 859-491-4003 or bcmuseum.org.

SPOTLIGHT: THE ADVENTURES OF TOM SAWYER Sept. 16 - 18

cting Up presents this musical adaptation of Mark Twain’s famous book, featuring a 14-year-old boy growing up in the heartland of America. Tap your toes to some fancy tunes, and follow along with Tom as he matches wits with Aunt Polly, falls in love with Becky Thatcher and takes the adventure of a lifetime with his buddy, Huckleberry Finn. Mason High School auditorium, 6100 South Mason Montgomery Road, Mason; $10. Visit actingup.com.

YO GABBA GABBA

Please see Calendar opener on page 29 for details.

21 wednesday ADVENTURE INTO DEER (AR) Please see Sept. 19 for details.

FOR THE LOVE OF KIDS (AR)

Beech Acres’ Parenting Center hosts a parent workshop on helping kids learn to handle stress, solve problems and develop healthy relationships. Beech Acres Parenting Center, 6881 Beechmont Ave.; 7 p.m.; $15; 513-231-6630 or beechacres.org.

NATURE PLAYSCAPE

Please see Sept. 17 for details.

22 thursday FREE ADOPTION WEBINAR (AR)

Families Thru International Adoption hosts a free informational webinar for adults interested in learning more about the international adoption process. 7 p.m. CST; adopt@ftia.org or ftia.org.

BABY AND TODDLER MUSIC (AR)

Please see Sept. 8 for details.

FREE BARNES & NOBLE STORYTIME

Stop by the Children’s Department for a Turn Off TV Week story, including We Are in a Book and Bats at the Library. Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 7800 Montgomery Road; 11 a.m.; 513-794-9320.

FREE TEACHERS’ NIGHT

Teachers are invited to stop by for freebies, coffee and tea, and to learn about the newest books. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 6 - 8 p.m.; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

23 friday HONEY HARVEST

Busy bees can wiggle the waggle dance, pollinate flowers, build a hive, try out some beekeeper gear, and learn why honeybees are so important from the Southwestern Ohio Beekeepers Association. Buy a jar of honey for $6.50, and enjoy pony rides, wagon rides and the Playbarn for a minimal fee. Parky’s Farm, Winton Woods, 10073 Daly Road; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. today, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sept. 24 and 25; a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

36 September 2011

CF 28-40 (Sept-Cal).indd 36

MOST VALUABLE KIDS ALL STAR EVENT

Most Valuable Kids Cincinnati, a non-profit that turns unused tickets to sports and cultural events into opportunities for underprivileged children, hosts an allstar event for supporters, with a pre-party for 400 kids who will get to check out the Reds Hall of Fame and meet the Reds mascots. Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, 100 Joe Nuxhall Way; 7:30 p.m.; $75 per person, $25 to sponsor a child attendee; mostvaluablekids.org.

FREE SKIPPYJON JONES STORY TIME

Ages 2 and older are invited for Skippyjon Jones stores, then meet Mr. Fluffypants himself. Bring your camera for this costumed character event. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 10:30 a.m.; 513-7312665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

FREE WWI DAWN PATROL

Check out aircraft fly-bys, radio-controlled models, era automobiles, period re-enactors and more in this three day festival. National Museum of the United States Air Force, 1100 Spaatz St., Wright-Patterson AFB; 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. today and Sept. 24, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sept. 25; 937255-1283 or nationalmuseum.af.mil.

24 saturday ADVENTURES AROUND CINCINNATI

Authors Laura Hoevener and Terri Weeks discuss and sign their collaborative effort, Adventures Around Cincinnati: A Parent’s Guide to Unique and Memor able Places to Explore With Your Kids. Monfort Heights Branch Library, 3825 West Fork Road, 513-369-4472 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

EVERYTHING FOR KIDS SALE

The Northern Kentucky Mothers of Twins Club hosts a fall and winter clothing sale — check out toys, equipment, clothes, holiday outfits, bedding, books and more. Call about a $5 raffle for early shopping. Notre Dame Academy, 1699 Hilton Drive, Park Hills; 9 - 11 a.m.; $1, all sales are cash and final; 859-760-6182.

FACES WITHOUT PLACES

Stop by for an all-day bookfair. Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 7800 Montgomery Road; store hours; 513-794-9320.

FREE A FAIR OF THE ARTS

Listen to live music and peruse the wares of local potters, photographers, stained glass artists, jewelers and more. Beech Acres Park, 6910 Salem Road; 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; 513-388-4513 or andersonparks.com.

FALL HARVEST FESTIVAL

Enjoy the sights and sounds of autumn and watch demos on cider pressing, apple butter making, candle dipping and more. Kids can dress in cowboy and cowgirl costumes for contests and prizes. Heritage Village Museum, Sharon Woods Park, 11450 Lebanon Road; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. today and 12 - 5 p.m. Sept. 25; $7 adults, $4 ages 5 - 11, free ages 4 and younger and members, plus a valid Hamilton County Park District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-563-9484 or heritagevillagecincinnati.org.

FALL TEAM FISHING TOURNAMENT (AR)

Please see Sept. 18 for details.

FREE FRENCH STORY TIME

Learn simple French vocabulary through stories and songs. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 10:30 a.m.; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks. com.

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:38 PM

FREE GREAT OUTDOOR WEEKEND

Get a free sampling of Greater Cincinnati’s nature programs and activities all weekend long in this program from Green Umbrella, an environmental advocate. Kids, teens and adults will have plenty of activities to choose from with more than 70 programs from 40 environmental and recreational organizations, including the Hamilton County Park District, Cincinnati Nature Center, Kenton County Parks and Recreation and more. Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, various locations; cincygreatoutdoorweekend.org.

HANDS ON NATURE: FORT BUILDING

Play facilitators help kids use materials from the Nature Playscape to build their own forts. Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; free members, $8 adults, $3 ages 4 - 12, $6 seniors and active military; free ages 3 and younger; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

FREE MORE ON CLOTH DIAPERS (AR)

Cloth diapers aren’t nearly as messy as you might think, and they’re better for the environment. Learn more about the benefits of cloth diapers with the area’s only diaper service, Good Natured Baby. Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center, 4244 Hamilton Ave.; 11:15 a.m.; 513-591-2332 or theplaceforfamilies.com.

25 sunday BRIGHT IDEAS: HOMEMADE MUSIC

Ages 5 - 10 can explore the world of recycled musical instruments, and design and create their own banjo. Duke Energy Children’s Museum, Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, 1301 Western Ave.; 3:30 p.m.; $5 members, $7 nonmembers plus admission (all-museum pass $12.50 adults, $11.50 seniors, $8.50

ages 3 - 12, $4.50 toddler pass); 513-287-7000 or cincymuseum.org.

FREE THE FROG PRINCE

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati presents The Frog Prince. When a young prince is transformed into a frog by a cruel fairy, he bides his time until “Princess Charming” comes along to save him. Mayerson JCC, 8485 Ridge Road; 1 p.m.; 513-761-7500 or ccummings@mayersonjcc.org or jointhej.org.

FREE GRANNY’S FALL GARDEN PARTY

Stroll through the gardens and pick a bouquet of flowers while sampling freshly harvested creations by volunteer chefs from The Art Institute of Ohio and the Veg Head. Granny’s Garden School, 550 LovelandMadeira Road, Loveland; 1 - 5 p.m.; 513-324-2873 or grannysgardenschool.com.

FREE GREAT OUTDOOR WEEKEND

Please see Sept. 24 for details.

26 monday SPROUTS INSTITUTE: MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

Little ones and their parents can join Music Together teacher Eliana Corredor for songs, dancing, chants and fun with instruments. Duke Energy Children’s Museum, Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, 1301 Western Ave.; 10 a.m.; $5 members, $7 nonmembers plus admission (all-museum pass $12.50 adults, $11.50 seniors, $8.50 ages 3 - 12, $4.50 toddler pass); 513-2877000 or cincymuseum.org.

27 tuesday BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Please see “Now Playing” on page 38 for details.

MAKE A BIGGER MESS AT THE MANATEE (AR)

Please see Sept. 13 for details.

FREE SENSORY SUNDAY (AR)

Please see Sept. 11 for details.

SKIPPYJON JONES FIESTA (AR)

Ages 4 - 8 can hear stories, have a snack, play games and celebrate all things Skippyjon Jones. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 2 p.m.; $8 per child; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

FREE STEAMBOATS A’COMIN’

Celebrate the 200th anniversary of the first successful steamboat voyage up and down the Ohio River with music, dancing and steamboat races for kids. BehringerCrawford Museum, 1600 Montague Road, Devou Park, Covington; 1 - 5 p.m.; 859-491-4003 or bcmuseum.org.

28 wednesday FREE WHAT PARENTS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT READING AND COMPREHENSION (AR)

Learn about current research on reading and how to better follow your own child’s reading development and learning. Langsford Learning Acceleration Center, 9402 Towne Square Ave.; 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.; 513-531-7400 or weteachreading.com.

(please turn the page)

OFF ALL RIDE TICKETS

Calling All Parents, Teachers, Principals... Sign your school up for Drake Science Center’s after-school program:

Use Access Code: CF911 Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discounts. Expires 10/31/11

S - Science T- Technology E - Engineering M - Math D...Design a program which fits your school needs.

Call 396-5578 or email pbowers@drakeplanetarium.org www.drakeplanetarium.org

Tickets and information can be found at LebanonRR.com or 513-933-8022

NOW ENROLLING FOR FALL!

Celebration Includes a 25 minute train ride with a full size Thomas the Tank Engine! Meet Sir Topham Hatt and enjoy live music, storytelling, and much more! TM

September 9-11 & 16-18 www.LebanonRR.com Rides depart every hour on the hour info@lebanonrr.com from 9am - 3pm Tickets: $18 General Admission 513 933-8022

Is Your Child Stuggling with Academic, Social, or Behavioral Issues?

Pumpkin Patch Express Ride! Coming in October!

Oct. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23 & 29-30 Departs at 9:45am, 1pm, 4:15pm

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 28-40 (Sept-Cal).indd 37

Call us today at 513-257-0705 for a tour of our center and learn how we can help! We invite you to join us for our monthly parent information session to learn more! Tues., Sept. 13th, 7pm at our center! For families with children struggling with ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Asperger’s, and other learning disabilities.

www.brainbalancecenters.com

September 2011 37

8/17/11 3:38 PM

daily LISTINGS

29 thursday FREE BARNES & NOBLE STORYTIME

COMING soon HYDE PARK SQUARE ART SHOW

Enjoy 200 artists and their crafts, ranging from ceramics and jewelry to fiber arts and painting in the 45th annual art show. Hyde Park Square, Edwards Road and Erie Avenue; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Oct. 2; hydeparksquare.org.

Stop by the Children’s Department for a Hispanic Heritage story time, including a Dora Explorer bilingual story and crafts to learn about the Latin culture. Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 7800 Montgomery Road; 11 a.m.; 513-794-9320.

KENTON ELEMENTARY PTA FALL FESTIVAL

30 friday

Check out gently used clothing, holiday outfits, shoes, strollers, toys, bedding, high chairs and other items at this semi-annual sale from Tri State Multiples. Princeton Community Middle School, 11157 Chester Road; 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. on Oct. 1; $1, all sales final, cash only; tristatemultiples.com.

FAMILY CAMPOUT (AR)

Grab your tent for a night of family fun under the stars, complete with a guided night hike, campfire songs, and marshmallows to roast. A light breakfast will be served the next morning before departing. Chilo Lock #34 Park, Chilo; call for time; $20 per family, $5 per additional adult; 513-876-9013 or parks. clermontcountyohio.gov.

FITTON FAMILY FRIDAY

ArtsWave is bringing out Madcap Puppets and their interpretation of Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite, a tale of Ivan, the bird of fire, and Katchai the magician. Ivan captures the bird and decides to free her in exchange for a magic feather that will bring her to his side when he needs help. Katchai attempts to steal the feather - find out what happens next. Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton; 7 p.m.; $10 adult members, $12 nonmembers, $5 child members, $6 nonmembers; 513-863-8873 or fittoncenter.org.

Bring the whole family for food, fun, games and raffle prizes with thousands of dollars in prizes. Kenton Elementary School, 11246 Madison Pike, Independence; 4 - 8 p.m. on Oct. 1; kentonpta@gmail.com or kentonpta.wordpress.com.

TRI-STATE MULTIPLES SALE

NOW playing

THE 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Please see “Spotlight” on page 30 for details.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

It’s a tale as old as time … but why not relive it again with your feisty princesses and adorable monsters? With classic songs and an extraordinary set and costumes, return guests will be just as entranced as first-timers with this Broadway musical. Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut St.; Sept. 27 - Oct. 9; ticket prices to be announced; broadwayacrossamerica.com.

GOD OF CARNAGE

Parents will appreciate this performance (but you may want to leave the kids at home). When two sets of parents meet to discuss their sons’ playground fight, the civilized conversation quickly deteriorates into a mess of namecalling, finger-pointing and tantrums. Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, 962 Mt. Adams Circle; Sept. 3 - Oct. 1; see site for ticket prices; 513-421-3888 or cincyplay.com.

NEW WORKS

The Cincinnati Ballet opens their season with three world premiere pieces and one regional premiere piece. Mickey Jarson Kaplan Performance Studio, Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut St.; Sept. 8 - 18; visit site for ticket prices; 513-621-5282 or cballet.org.

NEXT TO NORMAL

Older children and their families will appreciate this dramatic Pulitzer-prize winning musical about the Goodmans, who look like a perfect family but are actually struggling with the effects of mental illness. Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati, 1127 Vine St.; Sept. 7 - 25; $16 - $42; 513-421-3555 or cincyetc.com.

THE ADVENTURES OF TOM SAWYER

Please see “Spotlight” on page 36 for details.

FREE NATURE STORY TIME

Join the staff from Imago for a nature-themed story, followed by songs and activities. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 10:30 a.m.; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

PARKY’S FARM PUMPKIN PATCH (AR)

Grades K - 2 can hop on a hayride to the pumpkin patch to pick out a perfect pumpkin, try squashy experiments, play corny games and enjoy the Playbarn. Please register at least one week in advance. Parky’s Farm, Winton Woods, 10073 Daly Road; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; $6 per child, $2.50 per adult, pumpkins priced separately, plus a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

BE IN THE CALENDAR

To have your events listed in our October calendar, send details by Monday, Sept. 5 to Sherry Hang at sherryh@ daycommail.com or fax to 513-252-0081.

38 September 2011

CF 28-40 (Sept-Cal).indd 38

Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian

Nursery School Preschool for 21⁄2 years - 5 years

2, 3, 4 or 5 day programs, mornings or afternoons Degreed staff, excellent ratios

Parent & Child Classes Infant through Toddler

3 Star Winner

Step Up To Quality Top Award Winner

Megan Sprigg, M.S.Ed., Director 5950 Montgomery Rd. 513.631.0170

www.prpc.org “Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:38 PM

NOISES OFF

Older kids and their families can sit back and laugh at this farce of actors rehearsing for a flop calling “Nothing’s On” that includes all sorts of on-stage, offstage and backstage intrigue. Covedale Center for the Performing Arts, 4990 Glenway Ave.; Sept. 1 - 25; $23 adults, $21 seniors and students; 513-241-6550 or cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com.

THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT

Please see “Spotlight” on page 34 for details.

ONGOING events For more ongoing events, visit cincinnatifamilymagazine.com or nkyfamily.com. Cincinnati Museum Center, Union Terminal 1301 Western Ave., 513-287-7000, cincymuseum.org CINCINNATI UNION TERMINAL HOUSE DETECTIVE AGENCY

“Agents” 6 and older can solve mysteries in and around the Cincinnati History Museum. The more mysteries you solve, the higher your rank and the more agency pay you receive to purchase prizes. Find the Detective’s Office at the bottom of the ramp behind the Cincinnati in Motion exhibit. Cincinnati History Museum; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 1 - 4 p.m. Wed and Sat, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 2 - 5 p.m. Sun.; $5 per child to join.

TORNADO ALLEY

Join Sean Casey from Discovery Channel’s Storm Chasers on a mission to experience a tornado’s power at point blank range. Armed with customized vehicles, you can join the effort to understand the origins, structure and evolution of tornadoes, all in Tornado Alley — “the severe weather capital of the world.” Through Oct. 13.

Cincinnati Art Museum (CAM) 953 Eden Park Drive 721-ARTS (2787) cincinnatiartmuseum.org ARTWORLD

Stop by the CAM between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays for hands-on activities and art making inspired by current exhibitions.

FREE FAMILY ARTVENTURES

These weekend tours led by CAM docents feature touchable objects and hands-on ARTSTOPS. Meet at 1 p.m. on Saturdays; 3 p.m. on Sundays.

Miscellaneous events continuing this month: ALI-CE’S MAD HATTER TEA PARTY

Enjoy the art of Ali Hansen and friends, featuring fiber art, drawings, collages, quilts and more weaving together the story of Alice in Wonderland. YWCA Women’s Art Gallery, 898 Walnut St.; 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Mon - Fri through Sept. 16; 513-241-7090. Stories and activities with weekly themes for ages PreK and older. Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 9891 Waterstone Blvd.; 10:30 a.m. on Tue and Thu; 513-683-5599.

BIBLE BUDDIES (AR)

MAKE A MESS AT THE MANATEE (AR)

This class teaches simple Bible truths to children 20 months - 5 years using the FaithWeaver Friends curriculum that includes Bible stories, crafts, snacks and activities. Church of the Saviour United Methodist, 8005 Pfeiffer Road; 9 - 11:30 a.m. Wed; $10 for one child, $15 for families of two or more; cos-umc.org.

BUILD A BOOK (AR)

Ages 4 and older can express themselves in words and pictures — enjoy a story followed by a bookmaking workshop inspired by pictures, a certain author, type of book or whatever muse inspires for the day. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 1:30 p.m. first and third Tue; $5 per child; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

FREE CHATTERPILLAR (AR)

Little ones can learn new vocabulary in a weekly foreign language play group. Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center, 4244 Hamilton Ave.; German at 9:30 a.m. Tue, Spanish at 10 a.m. Sat, French at 11:30 a.m. Wed; 513591-2332 or theplaceforfamilies.com.

FREE CHILD AFRICAN DANCE or CHILD AFRICAN DRUM

Ages 6 - 12 can learn about African dance or drumming at the Bi-Okoto Cultural Centre, 7030 Reading Road, Ste. 662; drumming at 10 a.m. or dancing at 11:15 a.m. on Sat; 513-696-2112 or bi-okoto.com.

CINCINNATI MEETS THE BEATLES

The Beatles are returning to the Tri-State! This exhibit featuring the Fab Four highlights their two visits to Greater Cincinnati, along with the photography of Gordon Baer. Did you attend the 1966 concert at Crosley Field? Identify yourself in any of the images on display and win a free membership to BCM. Behringer-Crawford Museum, 1600 Montague Road, Devou Park, Covington; through Oct. 9; $7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 ages 3 - 17; 859-491-400 or bcmuseum.org.

FRIDAY NIGHT GRILL OUTS (AR)

FAMILY SATURDAY

GOD’S BIG BIG WORLD (AR)

THURSDAY ART PLAY

Ages 20 months - 5 years can learn how to praise and worship with songs, dancing, puppets, play games and more. Church of the Saviour United Methodist, 8005 Pfeiffer Road; 9 - 11:30 a.m. Thu; $10 for one child, $15 for families of two or more; cos-umc.org.

Ages 3 - 7 and a caregiver can explore their imaginations and express their creativity in the UnMuseum. Meet at 10:30 a.m. every Thursday in September. Free with admission.

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com • nkyfamily.com

CF 28-40 (Sept-Cal).indd 39

KIDS DAY OUT (AR)

FREE BARNES & NOBLE STORYTIMES

Hours: Mon 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Wed - Fri 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat - Sun 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Admission: $7.50 adults, $6.50 seniors, $5.50 students, $4.50 ages 3 - 13

An artist joins families to help create art projects in the UnMuseum. Meet from 1 - 4 p.m. on the fourth Saturday of each month.

Bring your little ones to hear favorite stories and listen to new tales each week. Joseph-Beth Booksellers, 2692 Madison Road; 10:30 a.m. Mon, Wed and Fri; 513-3968960 or josephbeth.com. Ages 6 months - Kindergarten can make crafts, play games, and have a snack with friends while parents run errands, meet with friends, or have some time away from the demands of parenthood. Church of the Saviour United Methodist, 8005 Pfeiffer Road; 9 - 11:30 a.m. or 12 - 2:30 p.m. Tue, lunch bunch from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.; $10 for one child, $15 for families of two or more, $5 lunch bunch; cos-umc.org.

Bring the family to Lake Isabella for a Friday evening of grilled meals, scenic views, live music, and fishing demonstrations. Lake Isabella Boathouse, 10174 Loveland Madeira Road; Fri through Sept. 3; $3.95 ages 10 and younger, $8 adults, $8.75 fried fish dinner, $9.25 specialty dinner, plus a valid Hamilton County Parks District Motor Vehicle Permit ($3 daily, $10 annual) is required to enter the park; 513-521-PARK (7275) or greatparks.org.

Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East Sixth St., 513-345-8400, contemporaryartscenter.org

FREE JOSEPH BETH STORYTIMES

Ages 2 - 4 can join blue manatee’s artist-in-residence, Miss Kelli, to read a picture book, followed by an art project based on the book. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 10 a.m. Mon; $5 per child; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

FREE MANATOTS

Babies up to age 4 and their grown-ups are invited for stories and songs. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 9:30 a.m. Sat; 513-731-2665 or bluemanateebooks.com.

FREE MOM TO MOM

Moms are invited to meet other moms, get answers to their questions, and make new friends. Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center, 4244 Hamilton Ave.; 10:30 a.m. Thu in Sept.; call for time; 513-591-2332 or theplaceforfamilies.com.

MONDAY MORNING CARE PROGRAM

New and established patients who arrive between 8 and 9 a.m. will be seen for a wellness or problem visit with the nurse practitioner, no appointment necessary. Please bring your insurance card and co-pay (20% discount for self-pay patients). Seven Hills Women’s Health Center, 9312 Winton Road; 8 - 9 a.m. Mon; 513-922-0009 or womenshealthcenters.com.

OLD WEST FESTIVAL

Head up to Williamsburg for weekend festivals including The Pickled Brothers Circus, magic by Professor Faris, an 1870s Western Traveling Medicine Show, gun fight re-enactments, family sing-alongs, cowboy poetry and plenty of games and activities for kids. Old West Festival, 1449 Greenbush Cobb Road, Williamsburg; 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat and Sun Sept. 10 - Oct. 9; $10 adults, $6 ages 6 - 12; 866-937-3887 or oldwestfestival.com.

PICK A BOUQUET

Join the Pick a Bouquet Club, then visit the garden to pick 10 bouquets of up to 24 stems (excluding sunflowers). Granny’s Garden School, 550 Loveland-Madeira Road, Loveland; through Oct.; suggested donation of $35; 513324-2873 or grannysgardenschool.com.

FREE PRESCHOOL STORY TIMES

Enjoy stories and songs with Miss Gail. Blue manatee children’s bookstore, 3054 Madison Road; 10:30 a.m. Wed; 513-731-2665; bluemanateebooks.com.

FREE TRINITY TOGETHER TIME

Parents and grandparents with children ages birth - 5 are invited to experience activities like guest speakers, crafts, games, stories and snacks. Trinity Community Church, 3850 E. Galbraith Road, 1 - 2:30 p.m., first and third Tue; 513-791-7631 or trinitycincinnati.org.

FREE WHALE OF A TALE (AR)

Bring your little ones for a multi-sensory, interactive story time. Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center, 4244 Hamilton Ave.; 10:30 a.m. Tue and Thu in Sept.; 513591-2332 or theplaceforfamilies.com.

September 2011 39

8/17/11 3:39 PM

Marketplace BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

CLASSES/EDUCATION/SCHOOL

PARTY/ENTERTAINMENT

Music-Art-Dance for Babies, Children & Adults

www.theCenter4theArts.org 513-948-1900 GIFTS AND SHOPPING

SERVICES

Call today:513-578-8401 or visit our website choicesfostercare.com

Buy The Purse & The shoes! seLL avon ParT TiMe. i do.

Monda Lee

This is your opportunity to change a life.

Avon Independent Sales Representative & Unit Leader

become a

FOSTER PARENT

(513) 628-0021

Shop Online! www.youravon.com/order CLASSES/EDUCATION/SCHOOL

PARTY/ENTERTAINMENT

Music Pups B-day Party! Have a Music Pups Birthday Party for your 1 to 4 year old. Singing, dancing, music instruments, parachutes, bubbles, puppets, & more. wcaom.com

WEST CHESTER

513-829-2345 ACADEMY OF MUSIC AND DANCE

Music for All Ages Piano, Voice, Guitar, Drums, Violin, Viola, Cello, Flute, Harp, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, French Horn, Oboe, and Acting Classes!

Call for a free sample lesson! wcaom.com

WEST CHESTER

ACADEMY 513-829-2345 OF MUSIC AND DANCE

Located in Montgomery

Music classes for children Ages 9 mos. - 5 yrs.

Classes now available on-site for your Preschool or Daycare www.themusicfactoryonline.com

513.545.7125

Terms & Conditions 1. Ads may be edited for length, content and language. 2. Publication of ad does not constitute endorsement by this publication.

Rates: 1 month: $55; 3 months: $40 per month; 6 months: $30 per month; 12 months: $25 per month; add $10 per month for color.

3. Ad proofs are NOT guaranteed.

Dimensions: 2.5” x 1.25”

4. No classified ads accepted for products or services being offered for more than $50.

Deadline: October ‘11 issue ads due by 5 p.m. September 14.

5. No refunds will be made after payment has been processed. 6. This publication reserves the right to refuse any ad at any time. 7. Classified ads that offer products or services that compete with display ads in the main body of our magazine are not accepted, and may be rejected by the publisher.

40 September 2011

CF 28-40 (Sept-Cal).indd 40

MARKETPLACE RATES AND DEADLINES

Payment: Full payment must be received prior to printing (check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover). Send Materials To: Marketplace Ads Cincinnati/NKY Family 10945 Reed Hartman Hwy., Ste. 221 Cincinnati, OH 45242 (513) 252-0077 sherryh@daycommail.com

“Where Every Family Matters.”

8/17/11 3:39 PM

Get the NFL SuNday TickeT at ™

NO eXTRa cHaRGe!

The unbeatable Hd Bundle

diRecTV service and lightning-fast internet ®

acT NOW

for only

offer ends soon

per month for 12 months with 2-year DIRECTV® agreement

diRecTV® cHOice XTRa™ Package

Lightning-fast internet

• NFL SuNday TickeT included at no additional charge ($385 value)

• download speeds of up to 5 Mbps

™

• 210+ all-digital channels • FRee Hd access† and more sports in Hd than any cable or satellite provider‡ • FRee Hd dVR and Hd receiver upgrade▲ (additional fees required)

• Surf the web and download photos and music faster • FRee online storage—safely store, manage and share your photos, documents, music and videos • Video chat with family and friends

• FRee 3 months of HBO,® STaRZ,® SHOWTiMe ® and cinemax® ($135 value)**

Call 513.565.1234 • Click cincinnatibell.com/hdbundle • Visit our stores • Find us on: *All offers require 2-year DIRECTV agreement. To the extent that there is a 2011 NFL season, customers will be automatically enrolled in and receive 2011 NFL SUNDAY TICKET and NFL SUNDAY TICKET To-Go at no additional cost. ¥Offer expires 10/5/11. $64.99 Bundle includes DIRECTV® CHOICE XTRA™ Package and ZoomTown High-speed Internet for 12 months after all rebates. Early cancellation of contract will result in additional fees of at least $20 per month for each remaining month of the contract. ZoomTown speeds of up to 5Mbps download speed, up to 768Kbps upload speed. High-speed Internet not available in all areas. ZoomTown subscription cancellation will result in an equipment charge if not returned to Cincinnati Bell. All programming and terms & conditions subject to change at any time. Additional features, taxes, government fees and surcharges are additional to the package price. Standard rates apply after the 12-month promotion ends. Credit card required. New approved DIRECTV customers only (lease required). Hardware available separately. Additional fees may apply. $19.95 Handling and Delivery Fee may apply for DIRECTV. Applicable use tax adjustment may apply on the retail value of the installation. Other restrictions apply. See store for details. †Includes access to HD Channels associated with your programming package. Number and type of HD channels based on package selection. To be eligible for Free HD you must activate and maintain the CHOICE XTRA package or higher and enroll in Auto Bill Pay. Also requires at least one (1) HD Receiver and activation of HD Access. ‡Claim is based on national offering of exclusive sports packages and other major sports programming in HD. ▲Second receiver offer requires activation of an HD DVR as the first free receiver upgrade and subscription to Whole Home DVR service. ($3/mo.) **Free HBO, STARZ, SHOWTIME and Cinemax for 3 months, a value of $135. LIMIT ONE PROGRAMMING OFFER PER ACCOUNT. DIRECTV service provided by DIRECTV. DIRECTV®, the Cyclone Design logo and CHOICE XTRA™ are trademarks of DIRECTV®, Inc.

coverads0911.indd 3

8/17/11 3:09 PM

cincinnati public schools

21st Century

LEARNERS & LEADERS

Excellent Choices, All for One Great Price — $0.00 CPS Magnet School Showcase

Thursday, September 22, 2011 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. CPS Education Center 2651 Burnet Avenue Corryville (45219)

A great education is a right, not a privilege. And when it comes to your child, we know you want the best — even in these challenging, economic times. You can be proud of the choices you have among magnet schools in the Cincinnati Public School District — Ohio’s highest-rated urban school system. We offer many innovative programs — at no cost to you — that provide a strong foundation for lifelong learning and prepare students to be leaders in the 21st century.

I am cincinnati public schools www.cps-k12.org

coverads0911.indd 4

Through choices in teaching styles — such as Montessori and Paideia — and program areas — such as foreign language, STEM, the arts, college preparatory, and gifted and online education — we offer the perfect choice for your child’s education.

Join us on Thursday, September 22, 2011, to learn more about how Cincinnati Public Schools can www.IamCPS.org

prepare your child for life.

8/17/11 3:28 PM