Cincinnati Family magazine September 2021 by Day Communications/DayCom Media

SEPTEMBER 2021 FREE

YOUR #1 HOMETOWN FAMILY RESOURCE

COVID-19 Q&A your vaccine concerns answered.

NEW! PERFECT PLAY SPOTS AND OUTINGS FOR YOUR FALL

Reading Battles! Why It's a Fight Worth Waging Plus Winning Strategies for All Ages of Kids

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PUBLISHER Stewart Day EDITOR IN CHIEF Susan Swindell Day susan@daycommedia.com EDITOR Amanda Hayward amandahayward@ daycommedia.com THINGS TO DO/ ASSOCIATE EDITOR Amanda Ciani amandaciani@ daycommedia.com GRAPHIC DESIGN DayCom Associates PRODUCTION Tim Henard timhenard@ daycommedia.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS Theresa Cicchinelli theresa@daycommedia.com Alexandra Pittman alex@daycommedia.com DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jonathan McCormack distributioncf@ daycommedia.com

Your role in your child's love for books and reading is EVERYTHING.

IN THIS ISSUE 2 3

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5 CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is published monthly by DAYCOM MEDIA, INC. Although every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of published material, DAYCOM MEDIA cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. Editorial and business offices are located at 10945 Reed Hartman Hwy., Ste 323, Cincinnati, OH 45242. The phone number is 513-252-0077; fax is 513-252-0081. CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is copyright © 2021 by DayCom Media, Inc., a member of The Family Magazine Syndicate. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

FEATURES

Editor's Note Go pick up a book!

Feedback

Lots of events are in your September guide from Monster Trucks to the Ohio Renaissance Festival to the Jonas Brothers!

Enter to win a Family Fun Prize from Urban Air Cincinnati, plus mom talk about choosing in-person, virtual or home-schooling this year.

Cincinnati News Happy Hangouts Westside play place opens for kids; Boychoir auditions; Puzzle Pieces helps launch a nonprofit and more interesting info.

THINGS TO DO!

Make reading with a ﬂashlight a "thing" so reading's fun.

Kids' Health

12 WINNING THE READING BATTLE

With all of the talk about COVID-19 vaccinations (Pfizer's is currently the only one for kids 12 and older), don't forget the other vaccinations children need.

Raising a reader is fun, rewarding and absolutely easy, so why aren't more kids into it? Start early, read outloud and find all kinds of ways to make it something they want to do.

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15 AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES Helping your child develop a passion for something comes from exposure. Find easy access here.

september 2021 1

the little things By Amanda Hayward

How About You Pick Up a Book?

S Open All Year

ome of my favorite memories with my step dad consist of trips to the library and the lake. It was always the highlight of my week — picking out fresh new reads at our local library. Then, when I was old enough to get my very own library card, I felt like I was on top of the world. I chose anything from young adult love stories to poetry. I loved reading poetry to my step dad before bed and showing off my sharp reading skills. I was proud I read books that were challenging, and I wanted him to be proud of me, too. I can still smell the scent of my newly checked-out library books — it truly is one of my favorite, and fondest, childhood memories. As I grew older, I read less and less. Not because I didn’t like to read anymore, it was because I couldn’t find the time. Between homework, extracurricular activities, cheer and sports, friends and books I was forced to read in school; there literally was no time. I sometimes hated the books I had to read in school, and sometimes they were tolerable. But they consumed all of my time. When could I ever read for fun anymore? Would I ever be able to read for fun again? Now here I am, in the same literary pickle. I realized I hadn’t picked up a good read in years until one day my oldest questioned me, “Why do I have to read Mom, I never see you read. Do you even like to read?” Wow, I was caught red-handed. I work so hard to get my kids to stay on track with reading, and I don’t even model it for them. Between life, three kids, sports, work, and more life, there literally isn’t any time. But, I do seem to find time scrolling through social media here and there - huh, maybe if I made it a priority, I can pick up that book that’s been collecting dust by my bedside. I think there is some time to read in a day, it just gets away from us like exercising or hobbies do. What happened to the reader in me? It’s there, and if I want my kids to be good readers, I need to show them firsthand what it is like to be a good reader. What can I say? It happens to the best of us. I may be speaking for many parents out there right now. So what can we do? Put it on your calendar and make family reading time a priority. Some days it may not happen, but we can try. I see happy parents picking out books at the library with their kids and that’s a good start! Now grab a book for yourself, head into a cozy chair and bring your books with you. Next, share what you read, then head off to the playground. So here I go — I’m starting a new chapter in my life. The other night, I kicked my feet up, thinking about scrolling through my phone while my husband watched a boring show. I asked him to change the channel and he said, “Not yet, I want to finish watching this. How about you pick up a book or something?” And I did — remembering what I had been missing all of this time. EDITOR

2 september 2021

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Giveaways, reader posts, parenting news and more.

A Family Fun Prize to Urban Air Adventure Park - Cincinnati!

Are Your Kids Attending School In-Person, Home-schooling or Virtual Learning This Year?

e are giving away a family fun prize to Urban Air Adventure Park Cincinnati! This prize includes four ultimate attraction passes, four pairs of Urban

Air socks, one large one-topping pizza, four fountain drinks and four Urban Air shirts all to one lucky family — more than a $200 value! Kids can jump, climb, slide, zip and more to their hearts' content! With popular attractions like the SkyRider, Warrior Course and tons of trampolines, Urban Air is a great destination for burning off energy and having lots of fun. They offer group packages and birthday parties, too! Celebrate backto-school at Urban Air, located at 3321 Alamo Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio. Click on the "Contests" tab on cincinnatifamilymagazine. com's homepage's top menu bar to enter to win through September 30. “The only virtual option available to us means that my kiddo is no longer a student at his current high school, which would derail his current path as the course offerings would be different. So, we are grudgingly sending him back to in-person with mask (and vaccinated!). It's a shame, though, because he did SO WELL with virtual last year. Far better than he ever did in-person." Mandi Chambers Way “In-school. I'll be a lot happier about it once she can be vaccinated, though!" Stephanie Brown Eversole

An excited participant at Urban Air Cincinnati.

ON THE COVER Cover Kid, Camden, photographed by Gena Bailey Photography in cool back-to-school apparel from Castle House in Cincinnati.

“Mask or no mask makes no difference to me. They will be going in-person. Their mental health is a bigger priority for me. The spring/summer of 2020 was miserable for them. The mask requirement was bothersome last year, but it kept them in school and happy. Keeping them home is not an option for us.”

Rhonda Brewer Luthy

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“Our kiddos have always been homeschooled. Very thankful we went this route, especially with everything going on. IF they were schooled outside the home, we would make all the sacrifices to get them home.” Jessica Staggs “In-person in a school in which masks as are optional. (She will be wearing a mask). She would like to stay home after a year of virtual, but I had to return back in the office for work. We are now back home due to an outbreak at work and I'm sure the school will be too once they get started." Kayla Wathel “In-person, no masks. My kids didn’t miss a day of daycare when the pandemic first started and neither did I for work. I haven’t stopped living, nor will my kids. I had COVID, survived, took care of people with COVID and will continue to. There's way worse things in this world than a virus."

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CINCINNATI NEWS

By Amanda Ciani

The fire engine at Happy Hangout, located in Cincinnati's west side.

Happy Hangout Play Place Now Open

est side kiddos ages 0 - 12 can have lots of fun hanging out at the brand-new Happy Hangout Westside play place. The giant indoor playscape — located at 2041 Anderson Ferry Road — will challenge children to navigate obstacles, climb, crawl and slide. A painted mini-city can bolster kid imaginations

MUSICOLOGIE REOPENS

oin Musicologie music studios to celebrate their grand reopening on Saturday, Sept. 18. There will be live music from students and teachers, tasty bites from Lil Bunz, balloon animals, face painting, raffles and more. Musicologie Anderson, 7120 Dunn Road, Cincinnati; 2 - 6 p.m.; 513620-4923 or musicologie.com.

with pretend play as police officers, firefighters, veterinarians and more. Along with birthday party packages, the new attraction also offers classes and events, birthdays, story time, hair braiding for parents, game night, Parent's Night Out and more. Learn about updated hours and happenings by visiting happyhangoutws.com.

BOYCHOIR AUDITIONS

incinnati Boychoir is holding 15-minute tryouts over Zoom on Wednesday, Sept. 8 from 4 - 7 p.m. for the fall season. The choir's accepting boys of all vocal abilities in grades 3 - 12, but non-auditioned and virtual options are also available. Register your boy for an audition at cincinnatiboychoir.org. Email sing@cincinnatiboychoir.org or call 513-396-7664 with questions.

NEW EXHIBIT AT CMC

ove Pixar movies? Us too. So it's exciting that "The Science Behind Pixar" exhibit opens next month (on Oct. 22) at the Cincinnati Museum Center (1301 Western Ave.). Kids and parents will be able to see how Pixar makes movies while enjoying more than 50 interactive components and more. Follow the museum on Facebook, visit cincymuseum.org or call 513-2817000 to learn more. (please turn the page)

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september 2021 5

cincinnati news

Puzzle Pieces - A Sensory Sensation, provides all kinds of sensorial play things and areas for special kids. The store partners with Abilities Without Limits on the 19th to help launch the nonprofit.

NEWSY BITES Puzzle Pieces Helps West Chester Academy Offers Launch New Classes for Adults Nonprofit

Two Fun Events Back at Cincinnati Art Museums

New Barnes & Noble in Time for Fall Reading

utism and special needs store Puzzle Pieces - A Sensory

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et there be art! This fall, creative juices are flowing again

ook-lovers rejoice! The Waterstone Center Barnes

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in Puzzle Pieces and online. Help

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Make your plan by giving WCA a call at 513-829-2345.

Next, Family Fest is back at the Contemporary Arts Center (44 E. 6th St.) on October 30. Find out more by visiting contemporaryartscenter.org.

6 september 2021

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health With these expert tips from local doctors plus preventative health measures, we can help kids steer clear of sickness this school year. By Amanda Hayward

A Healthier School Year? A special Q & A with Abigail Stein, M.D. with TriHealth Pediatrics and Camille Graham, M.D., pediatrician at Mercy Health Primary Care and Family Medicine and Pediatrics in Kenwood.

According to the CDC’s website, “Vaccination is currently the leading public health prevention strategy to end the COVID-19 pandemic. Promoting vaccination can help schools safely return to in-person learning as well as extracurricular activities and sports.” Can you weigh-in on this information?

Pediatricians are so unbelievably thrilled that we now have a safe way to help prevent kids 12 years and older from getting and spreading COVID-19. Because of decades of previous research, a ton of resources and manpower, the vaccine was still able to quickly undergo the same steps and safety protocols that our other vaccines go through. The safety data in kids is excellent with the side effects being similar to those we see in adults – pain at the injection site, fatigue, chills and headaches. If you haven’t yet, please talk to your child’s pediatrician as soon as possible about getting your child vaccinated. — Stein

How important is it for my kids to get other vaccinations since the COVID-19 vaccine is not currently available for ages 12 and younger?

Vaccines are truly the number one way that we have to keep healthy kids, healthy. Keeping your child up-todate on their vaccines is one of the most important things you can do for them as a parent. Unfortunately, during the pandemic, a lot of kids have gotten behind on their shots, leaving a high likelihood of outbreaks in diseases that we are not used to seeing, such as measles and whooping cough. Because of this, now more than ever it’s important to make sure that your children are up to date on all their regular immunizations. — Stein

It’s been a strange couple of years, and I’m concerned about my kids’ mental health - how can I help reduce my kids’ stress/anxiety throughout the new school year?

The best thing that you can do for your child during this stressful time is to simply be there for them. Some days it may feel like it more than others, but you are their best listener, teacher and advocate. Set aside a small amount of time after school where your phone and other distractions are out of sight and mind, and your number one focus is hearing about your child’s triumphs and challenges for

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

the day. Do your best to avoid interrupting, judgements, and lectures, which will only be counterproductive and simply listen. When they are done talking, simply recognize how they are feeling. Knowing that you understand how they feel gives them peace of mind and makes them feel heard. Often, feeling heard is enough to move on from the stress and anxiety of that day. — Stein

Q A

How can I tell the difference between influenza and COVID-19?

I cannot tell the difference between COVID and the flu; I cannot tell the difference between COVID and a cold. Unfortunately, the classic symptoms for flu are fever, chills, cough, runny nose, sore throat. Those are identical to the symptoms for COVID. Kids with a common cold also have those symptoms. In this time of COVID, it is impossible for anyone to look at a child if they have COVID, the flu or common cold. This is where we are. There is a lot that we don’t know but we do know the symptoms of COVID can just be a runny nose. It seems like we are going over backwards testing, testing, but that is the only way we can get a handle on the

disease and get control of this outbreak. There are tests for both the flu and COVID. — Graham (Please turn the page.) september 2021 9

health

(continued from the previous page)

The Big Question: Mask or No Mask?

hile the American Academy of Pediatrics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, US Department of Education and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center all recommend masks for children right now, some parents are against it. Meanwhile, some local schools are now requiring it. If you combine mask-wearing with other health and safety measures, it does reduce the risk of catching sickness, doctors say. “Our goal is to safely get kids back in school and keep kids in school,” says Stein. “Despite schools doing their best to make virtual learning successful, frequent quarantine periods and time spent in virtual learning environments has had profound negative effects on children in the past year. Not only is their education disrupted, but it is also having widespread effects on their mental and physical health,” she adds. 10 september 2021

So how well do masks really work? According to Stein, studies show that masking was proven to be effective in preventing transmission of COVID-19 and other sicknesses last school year. “Masks work!” she continues. “Since we know this, children who have a close exposure to COVID-19 but are masking and distancing appropriately do not need to quarantine, allowing them to stay in school, rather than constantly being pulled in and out of the classroom.” With the Delta variant being more transmissible than COVID and affecting kids more significantly than previous strains, according to Stein, masking up is one of the best actions families can take this year. “Your child deserves better than another year spent in front of a computer and away from their peers,” she says. Amanda Hayward is editor of this publication and a mom of three.

Your #1 Hometown Family Resource

MASK-WEARING TIPS FOR KIDS Stein and Graham give tips to help your kids be more comfortable with mask-wearing this school year. • Model mask-wearing to your kids if you want them to wear theirs. • Offer choices: Have multiple masks for them to choose from, just as they choose their outfit for school. • Show them the proper way to wear a mask and most likely they won’t mind wearing one. • Normalize mask-wearing by wearing them wherever you go. • Model hand-washing and distancing

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september 2021 11

PARENTING

BY AMANDA HAYWARD

WIN THE READING

BATTLE

It feels like a never-ending battle, but you CAN help your kids excel in reading with a little time and perseverance.

he day your enthusiastic kindergartener comes home reading with that little twinkle in her eye is truly a memorable and monumental day; the day she falls in love with reading and indeed becomes a reader. Years pass and in the blink of that twinkling eye, she is struggling to find a book she loves and struggles to keep up. What happened? It’s a cycle some kids go through, and parents, too. We want our kids to grow up to be good readers, but it’s harder than we had expected and the pandemic definitely didn’t help. That initial excitement of “Mommy I can read!” can easily go into the downward spiral and pure exhaustion for you. So how can you win this

12 september 2021

never-ending battle? Persistence, consistency and patience. WHAT IS READING LOSS? Reading loss can happen at the turn of a page. Kids can easily get behind if they are not participating in formal literacy programs during the long summer months, or they are learning at home and unable to match up to the curriculum taught at school. Although it doesn’t mean all is lost, it may take some extra work to get back on track. Unfortunately, reading loss is a thing and affects more than just a kid’s ability to read at the level they should be at. “Reading truly does affect all academic areas of a child’s education,” says Maria, a reading specialist in Fairfield, Ohio. “Reading is required to perform well in other content areas

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such as math, science and social studies.” Reading fluency affects comprehension, so it is important for a child to be able to read grade level materials independently, she continues. Between sports, work and daily life tasks, finding the time to read seems close to impossible which is another reason kids get behind on reading. Kids’ sports can get demanding, leaving no time for reading before bed. It’s head home, shower and sleep; and the cycle continues. Getting behind in reading can suddenly lead to a snowball effect as it continues to get harder and harder every year, becoming more demanding as the school year progresses. “From year to year, reading materials will increase in difficulty across subject areas, so it

is very important to meet benchmarks each year,” says Maria. “It’s possible to ‘catch up,’ but it’s difficult to watch a child struggle, and the gap can continue to grow wider from year to year. It’s much less stressful to stay on top of benchmark objectives. This will also help student confidence and hopefully increase their enjoyment of reading.” LOVING TO READ So how can you realistically help your kids squeeze in reading day-to-day? We’ve heard it all - read to them every night; set an alarm for 30 minutes of reading per day; read before breakfast; etc., etc. Unfortunately, this isn’t always realistic for every family, but there are ways you can win the reading battle. If you put forth all of your effort, it can be done. “There is definitely a shortage of time for many families,” says Maria. “I think it’s about finding little spaces to incorporate reading, whether it’s having your child read to you in the car on the way to practice or reading together as you wait for an appointment.” Maria notes that reading comes in many shapes and sizes. Reading the back of the cereal box, pointing out signs on the drive to school, or reading the menu together at your favorite restaurant you go to every Friday night are some creative ways to squeeze in extra literacy in a busy schedule. If you have a beginner reader, this is a great way to begin and help them to love reading from the get-go. It not only shows them reading is everywhere, it shows how reading is a necessity in everyday life. And when you can, blocking out that time to read together is good not only for learning, but for bonding time, too. Of course, blocking out time to read with your child is always great. You can take turns reading to

each other or even read out loud together, for example. “When my children were younger, they always wanted to stay up past their bedtime. I would tell them that as long as they were reading, they could have 15 extra minutes,” she says. “They also loved reading to their stuffed animals when a parent was not available to read with them. I encourage my students to do this, and they often come back to tell me which stuffed animals ‘listened’ to their reading.” ASSESSING YOUR KIDS So is she behind and how do you know? Evidence of background knowledge is a good place to begin, according to Karen Clemons, K - 6 curriculum manager at Cincinnati Public Schools. “Looking at what background knowledge the child has and making sure that they are able to produce simple sounds,” she explains. “And if they are able to do those two things - that will increase their vocabulary and for them to be able to read and understand more complex words depending on their grade level.” Communicate with your kids’ teacher and know what is expected of them at school, and from there, you can work with them at home without having to have any special materials on-hand. According to Clemons, most materials you need are already in your home. “Label items in your home, for example. A lot of the things you do, you can invent it in your everyday practice,” she says. Embedding learning into the home as early as age 3 or 4 can help your child become a good reader. Spend a little time each day with your kids and work with their letters and sounds. This “simple” task may seem daunting at first, but if you think about it as a “To Do” on

your weekly calendar and embed it into your daily routine, it will become something that doesn’t feel like an extra thing to do. “The more you can find time to read with your child or encourage your child to read at home, the faster those pandemic gaps (or any gaps) will close,” suggests Maria. Right now, many local schools are assessing kids and making up for their reading loss with additional courses, embedded classes and accelerated learning such as the “Every Child Reads” goal from CPS with the goal to teach kids to read by the end of first grade and making sure students have on grade level work and the materials they need. “We know that learning loss happened due to the pandemic,” says Clemons. “So we are making sure we are meeting students where they are so they can continue to succeed.” It’s important for parents to stay informed with what is going on in their kids’ school and whether or not they are meeting their benchmarks. Check with your district and communicate with your kids’ teacher as often as possible to see where your kid is. Students in some schools will be assessed in phonics and fluency and will use standardized tests for reading comprehension beginning in second grade. Other activities and assessments will occur throughout the year, too, to help measure your kids’ progression. “This tells us where students fall compared to their peers with reading skills,” says Maria. “We also use a standardized test for reading comprehension starting in the second grade. This test is normed on a national level. Scores from all of these assessments are shared with parents, as well as the benchmarks for these assessments.” This helps teachers and

parents to know if their kids are behind or on-track with their reading. “Our goal is to keep parents informed throughout the school year,” she continues. “A strong homeschool connection will make a huge difference in your child’s success. Teachers are happy to match students with appropriate reading materials that can be used for practice outside of school.” GETTING BACK ON TRACK The good news is, not all is lost. With accelerated learning in the classrooms this year and a little push and shove at home, your kid can start right where they left off and excel. Even with all good intentions and utmost efforts, expect there to be wins and loses with this reading battle — especially during a pandemic and an “off” school year. The good news is, it CAN be done. One way you can normalize reading is by modeling it yourself, but how can a busy parent have the time to pick up a book? “I had to make it [reading] a priority,” says Clemons. “I had to calendar it as a meeting and I had to take it seriously. A lot of times with parents working full-time, it’s more than a notion to say that I’m going to go home, I have a family, I have dinner to prepare, the kids might have sports and now I’m going to go read a book at 10 o’clock at night - it’s just not realistic.” This is where creativity comes into play. Have a book on-hand at all times anytime you have that “in between” time during your kids’ practice, for example, squeeze in some reading time. Once you model that to your children, they will see that you too have time to read. Even swapping out TV time for reading time is another trick which also models a balance between tech (social media) and reading. Time spent on tech can easily take away

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

independent reading time for you and for you to be reading to your kids. However, if you must, there are great reading apps and programs that can work to you and your kids’ benefit. Keeping the balance is key. “You can also use that time on their devices for their reading,” says Clemons. “There are different tech pieces that incorporate reading. There are a lot of learning games they can use that are structured and are aligned with Ohio Curriculum standards that can also be used as a tech tool and a reading tool as well.” Amanda Hayward is a mom of three and editor of this publication.

READ ON! According to educators virtually everywhere, helping your kids love to read is one of the most important things you can do. Here’s how:

MAKE IT FUN! • Read with a snack • Read in bed • Have them read to a sibling • Record your child reading, then have him listen in! • Find a series of books they’ll love (let your child choose) • Talk about what you’re reading • Read outloud to them from infancy on • Be patient and persistent

september 2021 13

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES

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Boy Scouts of America, Dan Beard Council

Children’s Meeting House

10078 Reading Road, Cincinnati 513-577-7700 • gocubscouts.com/family Scouting is fun, character, leadership and unique adventures your entire family will share for a lifetime. In Scouting, boys and girls start with their best right now selves and grow into their very best future selves. It’s fun, action-oriented learning that reinforces your values while helping prepare your child for today — and for life.

927 O’Bannonville Road, Loveland 513-683-4757 cmhschool.com Children’s Meeting House fosters the development of the whole child by implementing the philosophy and curriculum of Dr. Maria Montessori, using the abundant natural resources of our seven-acre campus. Voted Best Preschool by the readers of Cincinnati Family magazine.

Chai Tots

7587 Central Parke Blvd., Mason 513-234-0600 chaitots.com The Chai Tots Early Childhood Center is a nurturing place for children to discover their unique personalities and abilities. We are dedicated to each child with the best possible secular education as well as a warm introduction to the joyous traditions of Judaism. Ages 6 mos. - 6 yrs.

Cincinnati BoyChoir

650 Walnut St., Cincinnati 513-396-7664 cincinnatiboychoir.org The Cincinnati Boychoir is one of the premiere boychoirs in the United States. The Boychoir meets the needs of each boy who enters the program with a curriculum that teaches not just musical skills but self-discipline, intellectual curiosity, empathy, and a spirit of volunteerism. Boys in grades 3-12 in the 2021-2022 school year and love to sing are encouraged to audition! cincinnatiboychoir.org/audition

Mason Dance Center

600-B Reading Road, Mason 513-398-0353 masondance.com Mason Dance Center provides an opportunity for anyone ages 3 - adult to discover the joys of dance. Ballet, tap, jazz, hiphop, modern, pre-professional ballet, pre-dance combos, adult classes.

Royalmont Academy

200 Northcrest Drive, Mason 513-754-0555 royalmontacademy.org With preschool through high school offered at Royalmont Academy, it’s a unique design that complements your child’s learning capabilities. Forming Christian leaders for 25 years.

Star Glazers

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

West Chester Academy Music, Dance, Acting and Gymnastics

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

14 september 2021

Your #1 Hometown Family Resource

1 FREE ATTRACTION

IN THE CITY!

Star Glazers

Pottery Paintat YOUR Location!

OVER 6 FOOTBALL

FIELDS OF FOOD

OVER 180,000

PRODUCTS

DIY

OVER 70

Home Birthday Party Kits!

COUNTRIES

We bring everything you need! Free pick up and delivery. Minimum purchase required.

www.starglazers.com

Junglejims.com

Royalmont Difference!

for Life through Sport Want to give your child a fun, learning-based sports experience?

Give your young athlete the best opportunity to compete and learn by enrolling at RG Sports Academy. Volleyball Classes Starting from Kindergarten+

rgsportsacademy.com/classes

StarGlazersPaintPotteryAtYourLocation

Enrolling Now for 2021-2022 Come See The

Building Champions

By enrolling in basketball or volleyball classes at RG Basketball Classes Starting from Ages 3+ Sports Academy, your child will learn key fundamentals in a friendly and positive yet structured - environment.

513-474-6364

Preschool - 12th Grade

SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY OPEN HOUSE – November 14, 2021 • 2 - 4 p.m. Register to attend on our website.

Authentically Catholic

Full & 1/2 Day Preschool

Intentionally Small Classes

Full Day Kindergarten

Academic Excellence

Music, Art, PE, Spanish & Latin

200 Northcrest Drive, Mason, OH 45040

513-754-0555 • royalmont.org

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

september 2021 15

Art and Science want to Play.

Exhibit Open October 22, 2021 to April 24, 2022 cincymuseum.org/pixar

Produced by

JOIN THE LO N G B LU E L IN E

ck Come che out our NEW

ool Back to Sch ls! Support Too

Now enrolling for the ’22 – ’23 school year! Our mission is to assist young men in their formation as leaders and Men for Others through rigorous college preparation in the Jesuit tradition.

Autism & Special Needs Store where you can touch, feel & try dozens of special needs items!

13:1

Featuring a fully functional sensory room where kids of all abilities can learn through play!

Student to Faculty Ratio

Courses Available

28.5 Average ACT Score

AP Classes Oﬀered

42% of students receive an average of $8,334 in assistance

Open Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. 11912 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati

513-583-1874 www.puzzlepiecesohio.com 16 september 2021

200

Your #1 Hometown Family Resource

600 W North Bend Road Cincinnati, Ohio 45224 stxavier.org • 513.618.3258

september

By Amanda Ciani

THINGS TO DO 2020

EDITOR NOTE: Because of COVID-19 uncertainties, please verify events before you go in case of cancellations.

This. Is. Monster Jam! Sept. 4 at 1 and 7p.m. Sept. 5 at 1 p.m.

he world’s most ferocious monster trucks battle it out in an ultimate display of speed and destruction! Motor fans of all ages can experience a massive collection of beastly metal rigs including Gravedigger, Mohawk Warrior, Soldier Fortune, Razin Kane and others. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati. Tickets start at $15 (Pit Party tickets available). Head to monsterjam.com/en-US/ cincinnati-oh, or call 513421-1302.

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

september 2021 17

DAILY EVENTS wed 1 FREE BLUE ASH FARMERS’ MARKET Fresh goods and tasty bites from food trucks. Summit Park, 4335 Glendale Milford Road, Blue Ash; 3:30 - 7 p.m.; summitparkblueash.com/ residents/farmers_market.php.

BUTTERFLIES OF BALI (register) Closes Sept 6. Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; 513-421-4086 or cincinnatiparks.com/krohn.

FREE BLUE ASH NATURE PARK STORYWALK Walk and enjoy a story, too! Blue Ash Nature Park, 4335 Glendale Milford Road, Blue Ash; daily; blueash.com.

EVERYTHING THOMAS Train and crafts ends Sept. 6. EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Court, West Chester; Sun 12 - 6 p.m., Mon - Sat 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; $14.95 adults, $11.95 ages 3 - 12 and seniors 65+, free for ages 2 and younger; 513-898-8000 or entertrainmentjunction.com.

thu 2 FREE ART PLAY HIKE (register) Hiking and Art-2-Go bags for ages 2 - 7. Smale Riverfront Park, 8 West Mehring Way, Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; contemporaryartscenter.org/ programs/family-programs/artplay-hike.

TODDLER THURSDAY AT DIG’N PLAY Kids can explore a sand table, play area and a three-story play structure. Dig ‘N Play, 9405 Cincinnati Columbus Road, West Chester; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $4 for ages 2 and younger; 513847-1055 or dignplay.com.

fri 3 GOODNIGHT FIREFLIES (register) Outside story time with fireflies. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 7:30 p.m.; $10 non-members, includes daily admission; $5 members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

HISTORICAL (TOMA) HAWKIN’ (register) Learn about tomahawks and throw one. Ages 10 and older with an adult. Sept 4, 6 - 7 p.m., Sept 5, 10 - 11 a.m. OR 1 - 2 p.m.; Shawnee Lookout, 2030 Lawrenceburg, North Bend; $10 per person; valid vehicle permit required for park entry; 513-5217275 or greatparks.org.

sat 4 FREE CAM KIDS DAY Art-making activities, performances and a scavenger hunt. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.; 513-721-2787 or cincinnatiartmuseum.org.

FESTIVAL Visit a 16th-century English village, costumed characters, enjoy food and much more. Ohio Renaissance Festival, Harveysburg; 10:30 a.m. 7 p.m.; $23 adult general admission, $9.50 child (5 - 12) + $3 parking; buy online for savings; 513-897-7000 or renfestival.com.

FREE POPS LABOR DAY CONCERT IN THE PARK Salute summer’s end. All ages. Central Park in Forest Park, 1201 West Kemper Road, Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; 513-381-3300 or cincinnatisymphony.org.

sun 5

FREE KSO’S 27TH SUMMER SERIES CONCERTS

FREE ALL THINGS LOCAL: ART ON VINE

The Boy Band Diaries perform at Devou Park, 1201 Park Drive, Covington; OR Sept 5 at Tower Park Amphitheater, 900 S Fort Thomas, Ave., Fort Thomas; 7:30 p.m.; $5 recommended donation; 859-431-6216 or kyso. org.

FREE WESTERN & SOUTHERN WEBN RIVERFEST

MONSTER JAM 2021

(See “Things to Do,” page 17)

OHIO RENAISSANCE

Explore handmade goods. Fountain Square, 520 Vine St., Cincinnati; 12 - 6 p.m.;

The annual event features a Rozzi’s firework show set to tunes. Ohio Riverfront, Newport; 12 p.m.; webn.iheart. com.

FREE OUTDOOR STORY TIME DRIVE IN (register) Register by the carload; restrooms unavailable during event. Monfort Heights Branch, 3825 West Fork Road, Cincinnati; 9:30 - 9:45 a.m.; 513369-4472 or cincinnatilibrary.org.

FREE PAGES AND PAWS AT THE PARK (register) Practice reading to a therapy dog. Register for a 15-minute slot. Boone Wood Park, Shelter 3, 6000 Veterans Way, Burlington; 6:30 p.m.; 859-3422665 or bcpl.org. The Ohio Renaissance Festival includes costumed characters, good food and so much more!

18 september 2021

Your #1 Hometown Family Resource

mon 6

a.m. - 4 p.m.; thecityflea. com.

FREE KIDS MYSTERY FISH CHALLENGE (register)

CRAZY CARDBOARD REGATTA (register)

Ages 16 and younger can fish for a trophy! Bring pole; bait available for purchase. Lake Isabella, 10174 Loveland Madeira Road, Loveland; 9 - 11 a.m.; valid vehicle pass required to enter park; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org.

Vendors, entertainment and more. Voice of America MetroPark, 7850 VOA Park Drive, West Chester; 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.; $20 - 50, free for spectators + valid vehicle required for park entry; 513-867-5835 or yourmetroparks.net.

tue 7

FREE DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP TOUCH-ATRUCK

BLIPPI THE MUSICAL Blippi comes to life!The BB&T Arena, 500 Louie B Nunn Drive, Highland Heights; 6 p.m.; tickets start at $25 plus fees & taxes; meet-and-greet tickets available; 859-442-2652 or thebbtarena.com/eventsand-tickets/event-details/ BLippi2021/Default.aspx.

thu 9 FREE THURSDAY ART PLAY Join the CAC for creative playtime at Washington Park’s Porch, 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org/ programs/family-programs/ thursday-art-play.

fri 10 FLORENCE Y’ALLS HOME GAME The Y’alls play ball during fan appreciation night. UC Health Stadium, 7950 Freedom Way, Florence; 7 p.m.; tickets starting at $10; 859-594-4487 or florenceyalls.com.

sat 11 FREE CITY FLEA OTR features this market with vendors, food trucks and a playground. Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati; 10

Climb in a variety of vehicles, check out the inflatables and so much Coco Live in Concert with the Cincinnati Pops is the call for Sept. 17 and 18. more. Deerfield Township Music and kids’ activities from FREE SHAKESPEARE IN Center, 5503 Deerfield THE PARK: ROMEO AND 6 - 8 p.m. Ault Park, 5090 Boulevard, Mason; 10 a.m. - 1 JULIET Observatory Circle, Cincinnati; p.m.; deerfieldrec.com. Shakespeare’s love story 6 - 10 p.m.; aultparkac.com. brought to life by Cincinnati FREE FALL FRENZY CRAFT Shakespeare Company. 1 p.m. FREE OKTOBERFEST SHOW FESTIVAL ZINZINNATI Sharon Woods, 11450 Lebanon Enjoy opening day! Country German food, music, dancing, Road, Sharonville; valid vehicle Pumpkins Farm, 1835 Sherman weiner dog racing and more. permit required for park entry; Mount Zion, Dry Ridge; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org. Sept 16, 5 p.m. - 12 a.m.; Sept 10 a.m.; 859-905-9656 or 17, 11 a.m. - 12 a.m.; Sept 18, countrypumpkinsky.com. 11 a.m. - 12 a.m.; Sept 19, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Downtown FREE SUMMER Cincinnati, 2nd St., Cincinnati; CONCERTS IN THE PARK ALANIS MORISSETTE IN oktoberfestzinzinnati.org. Local bands, craft vendors, CONCERT tasty food. Sharon Woods, With special guest Garbage. 11450 Lebanon Road, Riverbend Music Center, 6295 Sharonville; 7 p.m.; valid Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati; 7 p.m.; CINCINNATI POPS: COCO vehicle permit is required for tickets starting at $51; 513-232LIVE IN CONCERT park entry; 513-521-7275 or 5882 or riverbend.org. Michael Giacchino’s score is greatparks.org. performed as the film shows FREE TOYOTA PRESENTS on the big screen. Sept 17 FREE O.F.F. MARKET SUMMIT CINEMA at 7:30 p.m. OR Sept 18 at Shop artisans, brewers, bakers Grab a spot on the lawn for Big 2 p.m.; Music Hall, 1241 and farmers. Summit Park, Hero 6! Summit Park, 4335 Elm St., Cincinnati; tickets 4335 Glendale Milford Road, Glendale Milford Road, Blue Blue Ash; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Ash; 7:30 p.m.; movie begins at start at $25; 513-381-3300 or cincinnatisymphony.org. theoffmarket.org. dusk; summitparkblueash.com.

wed 15

fri 17

sun 12 CINCINNATI BENGALS’ HOME OPENER The Bengals meet the Minnesota Vikings. Paul Brown Stadium, 1 Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati; 1 p.m.; tickets start at $49; 513-6218383 or bengals.com/tickets.

FREE WASHINGTON PARK SUMMER CINEMA Movie night and food trucks! Selena starts at 9 p.m. Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati; washingtonpark.org.

thu 16 FREE SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

sat 18 BENTON FARM FALL CRAFT SHOW Shop, listen to music, enjoy and crafts and snuggle goats! Benton Farm, 11896 Old Lexington Pike, Walton; Sept 18 and 19, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $3 admission, free for ages 12 and younger; 859-4857000 or bentonfarm.com. (please turn the page) september 2021 19

THINGS TO DO BLOOMS & BERRIES FALL ON THE FARM 2021 Mazes, a pumpkin bounce pad, hayrides, a petting zoo, goodies and more. Blooms & Berries, 9669 Ohio 48, Loveland; open daily through Oct 31, 9:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.; 513-697-9173 or bloomsandberries.com.

ESCAPE THE VILLAGE (register) Choose from two escapes hosted by the museum at 12, 1:30 and 3 p.m. Heritage Village Museum, 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville; $25 per person; 513-563-9484 or heritagevillagecincinnati.org.

FAMILY FLASHLIGHT SCAVENGER HUNT (register) A night scavenger hike! Long Branch Farm & Trails, 6926 Gaynor Road, Goshen; 8:30 - 10 p.m.; $12 non-members, includes daily admission, $7 members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

FARM ENCOUNTERS (register) Veggies, animals, farm tours and more. Gorman Heritage Farm, 10052 Reading Road, Cincinnati; 1 - 2:30 p.m.; $7 - $10; 513967-0058 or eventbrite. com/e/166559894127.

FREE GOT MILK DAY AT COUNTRY PUMPKINS Cow milking demos, calf feedings and free chocolate milk for the first 100 guests. Extra Fall Festival (fees apply), includes hayrides, pumpkins, animals and more. Country Pumpkins Farm, 1835 Sherman Mount Zion, Dry Ridge; 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 859-905-9656 or countrypumpkinsky.com.

JACK O’ LANTERN JUNCTION Ghost maze, pumpkins, trains and more. EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Court, West Chester; Mon - Sat, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun 12 - 6 p.m.; $14.95 adults, $11.95 seniors 20 september 2021

(65+) and ages 3 - 12, free 2 and younger; 513-898-8000 or entertrainmentjunction.com.

PASTA COOKING IN THE GARDEN (register) Ages 9 and older can craft lasagna roll-ups. Gorman Heritage Farm, 10052 Reading Road, Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.; $15; 513-9670058 or eventbrite.com/e/ pasta-cooking-in-the-gardentickets-163656560177.

sun 19 FREE ABILITIES WITHOUT LIMITS LAUNCH PARTY Help a new nonprofit make inspirational shirts to sell. Food trucks, ice cream, face painting and more. Puzzle Pieces, 11912 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati; 1 - 4 p.m.; 513-583-1874 or puzzlepiecesohio.com.

FREE CINCINNATI BALLET ACADEMY OPEN HOUSE Explore the new dance center, see performances, sample classes and more. The Margaret and Michael Valentine Center for Dance, 1801 Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati; 12 - 5 p.m.; 513-5621111 or cballet.org/academy.

tue 21 JONAS BROTHERS: THE REMEMBER THIS TOUR With special guest Kelsea Ballerini. Riverbend Music Center, 6295 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati; 7 p.m.; tickets starting at $29.95; 513-2325882 or riverbend.org.

fri 24 FREE ART AFTER DARK Performances, art, dancing, drinks, treats and more. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 5 - 9 p.m.; 513-721-2787 or cincinnatiartmuseum.org.

ZOOFARI (register) The fundraiser includes food, music, dancing, animals

The Jonas Brothers bring their tour to Riverbend on Sept. 21.

and more. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; 7 - 12 a.m.; tickets starting at $350, see website for details; 513-2814700 or cincinnatizoo.org.

sat 25 FREE APPLEFEST Browse arts, crafts, vendors and hear live music, too. Warren County Fairgrounds, 665 North Broadway St., Lebanon; 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.; 513850-1770 or countryapplefest. com.

FALL FLYER TRAIN RIDE Take a train ride then visit Applefest. Trip Length: 1 hour, 15 min. LM&M Railway, 16 East South St., Lebanon; Departure Times: 11 a.m., 1 & 3 p.m.; $15 adults, $11 seniors and ages 2 - 16; concessions available; +$5 deluxe seats; 513-933-8022 or lebanonrr.com.

FREE GREAT OUTDOOR WEEKEND 2021 Nearly 100 events offered over two days in the area hosted by Green Umbrella. See website for complete list of events in Cincinnati and NKY; 513-5411538 or greatoutdoorweekend. org/events.

KINGS ISLAND TRICKS AND TREATS FALL FEST (register) Don costumes and enjoy treats, entertainment and rides. Kings Island, 6300 Kings Island Drive, Mason; 12 p.m.; see website for ticket information; 513-7545700 or visitkingsisland.com.

Your #1 Hometown Family Resource

PAPAW ICE CREAM DAY FOR FAMILIES (register) See papaw ice cream and taste it. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 1 - 2 p.m.; $8; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

PYRAMID HILL ART AND MUSIC FESTIVAL Art, music, food and activities. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum, 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton; Sept 25, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Sept 26, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $10 per carload, $15 two-day pass; 513868-1234 or pyramidhill.org/artmusic-festival.

FREE SENSORY SATURDAY Those with developmental disabilities can enjoy a lesscrowded visit and sensory bags. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.; 513-721-2787 or cincinnatiartmuseum.org.

sun 26 FREE RAPTOR INC. OPEN HOUSE See birds of prey up close. Raptor Inc., 961 Barg Salt Run Road, Milford; 1 - 4 p.m.; 513625-3325 or raptorinc.org.

mon 27 WWE MONDAY NIGHT RAW Live action! Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; tickets start at $20; heritagebankcenter.com.

SHAMPOO STUDY Looking for men and women ages 18 - 65.

Earn up to $180. Starts September 13th. If your hair doesn’t have dandruff and is at least 1/4 inch long covering 75% of your scalp, you may qualify.

Welcome to

Children’s Medical Center serving families for over 70 years

Putting Patients Needs First. Our providers and staff enjoy working with parents and children and we consider it our privilege to partner with you in your children’s healthcare. • Accepting New Patients • Accepting Most Insurance • Morning and Late Afternoon Walk-In Appointments for Acute Illnesses

We’ll be there when your family needs us the most.

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

(513) 424-1856

www.childrenscmc.com

Rebecca A. Dandoy, MD

James M. Komer, MD

Kenton A. Pate, MD

Diana E. Small, MD

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Jennifer Thornicroft, FNP

Cincinnati Family magazine September 2021

Articles inside

Kids' Health

Cincinnati News

Editor's Note

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