Cincinnati Family magazine October 2023

PUBLISHER

Stewart Day stewart@daycommedia.com

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

Amanda Ciani amandaciani@ daycommedia.com

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Jonathan McCormack distributioncf@ daycommedia.com

To SUBSCRIBE to our weekly newsletter, go online to cincinnatifamilymagazine.com.

2 Editor's Note Surviving the newborn phase.

3 Feedback

Scream for ice cream with our October giveaway of Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream's fall flavors. Plus, moms talk about alternative to peanuts in school lunches.

5 Cincinnati News

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 513-322-5052.

CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is copyright © 2023 by DayCom Media, Inc., a member of The Ohio Parent Media Network. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Here's your roundup of fall Open Houses at Cincinnati private schools plus info on a slew of new openings around town including GoldFish Swim School in Kenwood.

9 Kids Health

Help for itchy, rashy baby eczema (it can really trip up new parents), plus, helping your child manage his fears — especially this time of year.

12

Unleash the

of Laughing With Your Kids

Parents have had to be so serious and concerned about so many things since 2020 — we really need to lighten up and enjoy the ride more with our families (laughter has health benefits, too!).

THINGS TO DO!

" The end of the summer is not the end of the world. Here's to October …" — A.A. Milne, "A Word for Autumn"

17

It may be our most favorite month of the year with cooler air settling in; make time to really enjoy it with your family!

We literally have a pumpkin patch of things to do for fall! Head to pg. 17 where all of the happenings begin.

the little things

Surviving the Newborn Phase

Itfeels great to find my self-worth again after surviving the first six weeks of the newborn phase. As you may know, there are a lot of adjustments for everyone and you tend to lose yourself in the midst of it all. Someone asked me, "Do you enjoy the newborn phase?" That was a hard question to answer just "Yes" or "No" to. It's the sweet snuggles and gandering at a super-sleepy baby that I love most. What I don't love is how I can't find time with my older kids like before, the unpredictable, sleepless nights and too often feeling tired and emotional. I don't love that.

What I also love is being flowered with gifts topped with blue, baby balloons that appear at my doorstep; weekday dinners and visits from good friends and family; people stopping by the house just to hold the baby and to let me take a nap; the hospital stay where you order everything o the menu (it sort of feels like a mini vacation); all of the excuses to not have to exercise or leave the house; and a break from work where my focus is only on the baby and kids. Although all of those things are wonderful, it's back to life, leaving the house and dipping my toes into the waters again.

Other hard things about the newborn phase: feeling like all I am is a walking milk machine; being frustrated about my postpartum body and how I can't fully cater to it right away; not having time to myself; not being able to keep the house clean; and constantly deciding if I should nap or fold the laundry. Here is a little side note of advice: yes the good ol' "sleep when the baby is sleeps" gets a little old — especially when that is not very realistic when you have a toddler or other kids running around — but if you can, sleep. Especially the first night postpartum, because let's face it, we have all been fooled that we have a great little sleeper after that first night at the hospital and at home. Then night two at home rolls around and you're up all night pulling your hair out.

If you are in the newborn phase with me, are about to go into it or slowly crawling out of it, I want to say, "It's all worth it," and "This time is precious, enjoy it while it lasts." But I am going to change the perspective a tiny bit to alleviate the guilt of not always feeling like you have to feel that way. So how about, "Go easy on yourself, try not to do too much too quickly, take one day at a time, use up all of the help you can get and don't get too overconfident that you have been there and done that — be prepared for anything." No matter how many times you have been through this stage, it feels like it's the first time. Babies are predictable in a way, but every baby is di erent and comes with new challenges and surprises. Survival is key for you and your new little one. Take my advice with a grain of salt and best of luck to your new life with your new bundle!

By Amanda Hayward EDITOR

Illustration by Krystal Quiles

9157

Montgomery Road, Suite 100, Cincinnati MontgomeryPeds.com

Jeni's Ice Creams includes fall flavors like Skillet Cinnamon Roll.

Win!

Jeni's Ice Cream Fall Flavors Shipped Directly to You

One of the many wonderful things about autumn is all of the different new flavors to enjoy (beyond pumpkin spice!). Introducing Jeni's Fall Flavors:

Sweet Potato Marshmallow Brûlée

Roasted sweet potatoes with nutmeg, cinnamon, marshmallow sweet cream and cracked sugar candy.

Green Mint Chip

Peppermint cream with crunchy, bittersweet chocolate.

Cookies in Cream

Scratch-made darkest-chocolate cookies with flecks of white chocolate in vanilla-scented cream

Boston Cream Pie

A salted vanilla custard layered with yellow cake pieces and darkest chocolate fudge.

Skillet Cinnamon Roll

Dark caramel, cream cheese, pastry, and cinnamon (lots of it).

Cincinnati Family and Jeni's Ice Creams are giving away a box filled with all of Jeni's new fall flavors and it will be shipped directly to the winner — an $87 value!

Enter to win the prize under the contest tab at cincinnatifamilymagazine.com by October 15.

Good luck!

FEEDBACK

Join

Question!

My first-grade son is in a peanut-free room this year, but he loves peanut butter. Do you have ideas for his lunches?

“Since my youngest is in first grade, he has an early lunch. So sometimes he takes pizza rolls or chicken nuggets or even fish sticks. We cook in the morning and put it in a container for hot food and send it on."

Rebecca Derryberry

"Sunbutter, maybe?"

Mckensie Scott

“My daughter has a peanut allergy and we use Wowbutter or Sunbutter."

Jennifer Lynch

"We just took our daughter off of peanuts, so it's been a challenge for me to figure out what to send her for lunch. One of her favorite lunches is the King's Sweet Hawaiian Rolls with ham and cheese. Or sometimes I do just ham and then a cheese stick. I also got her a soup thermos and it works well keeping mac and cheese, chicken nuggets or hot dogs warm! The King's' brand makes a mini-sub roll that works great at a hot dog bun if you cut the weenies in half."

Paula Boyd

"As a mom of a child with nut allergies ... I want to thank you!"

Nurulwahida Jamaludin

“My son loves a hot thermos lunch. Spaghetti, chicken and rice, beef stroganoff, ramen, chicken fettuccine, chicken lettuce-wrap filling, chicken salad (cold). Ham on Hawaiian rolls; a chipotle chicken tortilla

wrap. Sunday through Thursday, I try to have two-to-three dinners with leftovers for his lunches. It's my understanding that Oreos come from a nut-free facility, too."

Sherryl Sanders

“Wowbutter is way better than Sunbutter."

Nicole Darling

“Just another parent saying thank you for being considerate of kids with allergies! Also, if hazelnuts are allowed, my 4-year-old loves when I make him Nutella sandwiches. He thinks it's super special because he is getting a 'chocolate sandwich,' but the sugar content isn't really much different than jelly (in fact, in some cases it's got less sugar than jelly)."

Sarah Blair

“If you're looking for nonsandwich ideas, my kids like pasta salad with ham cubes and veggies or homemade Lunchables. The $5 sushi on Wednesdays from Publix is a huge hit at our house. We've also done mac and cheese in a thermos."

Anna Ahmadi McMurtry

by Amanda Ciani

CINCINNATI NEWS

Students at 7 Hills School in Cincinnati. The school has two different campuses: Doherty for children ages 2 through grade five; and Hillsdale which has a Lower School for children ages 2 through grade five plus an Upper School for grades nine - 12. See their Open House info below.

Private School Open Houses

Discover a local independent education for your child at events this month and next.

BETHANY SCHOOL

bethanyschool.org

513-771-7462

555 Albion Ave., Glendale

Sunday, Oct. 22 from 2 - 4 p.m.

CALVARY CHRISTIAN

ccsky.org | 859-356-9201

5955 Taylor Mill Road

Covington, KY

Thursday, Nov. 16 from 6 - 8 p.m.

CINCINNATI CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS

cincinnatichristian.org

513-892-8500

7350 Dixie Highway, Fairfield

Elementary Open House: Monday, Nov. 13 from 1 - 3 p.m.

JH/SH Open House: Monday, Nov. 13 from 3 - 5 p.m.

CINCINNATI HILL CHRISTIAN

chca-oh.org | 513-247-0900

8283 East Kemper Road, Cincinnati

Saturday, Nov. 4 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

CINCINNATI WALDORF SCHOOL

cincinnatiwaldorfschool.org

Lower School: 513-541-0220

Upper School: 513-386-7974

6703 Chestnut St., Cincinnati

Lower School Open House: Saturday, Nov. 4, 10 a.m.

High School Open House: Saturday, Nov. 4, 11 a.m.

COVINGTON CLASSICAL ACADEMY

covingtonclassicalacademy.org

859-693-9203

525 Scott St., Covington, KY

Sunday, Nov. 5 from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

COVINGTON LATIN SCHOOL

covingtonlatin.org

859-291-7044

21 East 11th St., Covington, KY

Sunday, Oct. 29 at 1 or 3 p.m

MARS HILL ACADEMY marshill.edu | 513-770-3223

4230 Aero Drive, Mason, OH

Saturday, Nov. 4 from 9:30 - 11 a.m.

MERCY MCAULEY HIGH

mercymcauley.org

513-681-1800

6000 Oakwood Ave., Cincinnati

Sunday, Oct. 29 from 1 - 3:30 p.m.

MERCY MONTESSORI CENTER

mercymontessori.org

513-475-6700

2335 Grandview Ave., Cincinnati

Virtual Meet-ups: Tuesday, Oct. 17 or Nov. 7 at 9 a.m.

MOUNT NOTRE DAME

HIGH SCHOOL

mndhs.org | 513-821-3044

711 E Columbia Ave., Cincinnati

Sunday, Nov. 5 from 1 - 5 p.m.

ROYALMONT ACADEMY

royalmontacademy.org

513-754-0555

200 Northcrest Drive, Mason

Wednesday, Nov. 15 from 5 - 7:30 p.m.

SETON HIGH SCHOOL

setoncincinnati.org

513-471-2600

3901 Glenway Ave., Cincinnati

Open House: Thursday, Nov. 2 from 4:30 - 8:30 p.m.

ST. XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL

stxavier.org | 513-761-7600

600 W. North Bend Road

Cincinnati

Sunday, Nov. 12 from 1 - 5 p.m.

SEVEN HILLS SCHOOL

7hills.org | 513-728-2400

Hillsdale Campus: 5400 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati

Doherty Campus: 2726

Johnstone Place, Cincinnati

Doherty Tour: Tuesday, Oct. 10 from 9 - 10 a.m.; Lotspeich Tour: Thursday, Oct. 12 from 9 - 10 a.m.; Hillsdale Tour: Thursday, Oct. 19, 9 - 10 a.m.

SPRINGER SCHOOL

springer-ld.org | 513-871-6080

2121 Madison Road, Cincinnati

Virtual Open House: Tuesday, Oct. 10 from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.;

Open House: Wednesday, Nov. 8 from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.

ST. URSULA VILLA SCHOOL

stursulavilla.org | 513-871-7218

3660 Vineyard Place, Cincinnati

Saturday, Nov. 4 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

SUMMIT COUNTRY DAY

summitcds.org | 513-871-4700

2161 Grandin Road, Cincinnati

Montessori Parent Preview Day: Thursday, Oct. 19 from 8:30 - 10:15 a.m.; Upper School Parent Preview

Day: Wednesday, Oct. 4 from 8:30 -

10 a.m.; Upper School Open House: Thursday, Nov. 16 from 6:30 - 9 p.m.

It's Always a Good Time for Swimming Lessons!

Goldfish Swim School Opens in Kenwood

Cincinnati families living near Kenwood have a brand new swim school to attend! Goldfish Swim School’s newest Cincinnati location can be found at 8261 Pine Road. Goldfish is known for their Science of SwimPlay philosophy, which combines guided play in a safe environment. Check out your options for one or more kids, drop-in choices and more. Visit goldfishswimschool.com/ kenwood or call 513-715-5043 to find out more.

Newsy Bits!

LilyPad Play Opens in KY for Littles

Popular play place LilyPad Play is growing! Families who know and love Lilypad’s Cincinnati location will be excited to learn about a new location opening in NKY. LilyPad includes a play place, classes, birthdays and more now at 574 Buttermilk Pike in Crescent Springs. Visit lilypadplay. com for updates and information on LilyPad Play’s Cincinnati and NKY locations.

West Chester Toys Has a New Location

West Chester Toys has made a move! Families who love browsing the storefront's unique items can now find them in a larger retail space located in Beckett Commons Plaza. Whether looking for a gift or toy to keep, head to 8234 Princeton-Glendale Road to visit West Chester Toys. Shop in-store for fun

STEAM toys, DIY kits, cards, games and classic toys or online at westchestertoys.store.

Grow Together Pediatric Therapy

Could your little one benefit from some extra help with everyday activities? Grow Together Pediatric Therapy is a new business that can help. Offered are mobile assessment consultations and occupational therapy sessions at the time of your preference. Parent coaching ensures the learning keeps going. Learn more by calling 513-440-0151 or visiting growtogethertherapy.com.

Cook Up Yummy at CMC

Kid chefs have a new kitchen to cook in this November! The Cr(EAT)e Culinary Studio featuring the Kroger Food Lab at Cincinnati Museum Center will feature multiple cooking stations for kids. The studio will encourage kids to be hands-on in the kitchen, while learning about chemical reactions, too! Visit cincymuseum. org or call 513-287-7000 for more information.

Scarlet Rose Books Opens in Ludlow

Book-lovers of all ages will love the brand new store now open at 220 Elm Street in Ludlow, Kentucky. Scarlet Rose Books & Vintage Boutique boasts books for all ages and unique apparel, too. The venue plans on hosting book clubs, writing workshops, poetry nights and more. Stay in the loop by visiting Scarlet Rose Books on facebook, and browse their wares at scarletroseretail.com.

An author reads to kids at Scarlet Rose Books & Vintage Boutique, now open in Ludlow, KY.

Goldfish Swim School offers swim assessments, lessons and flexibility for scheduling. Also available: parties, family swims and more.

GET TO KNOW US!

We know that choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make. At Seven Hills, we’re devoted to offering each student an engaging, enriching school experience in preparation for a life full of learning — whatever they do and wherever the world takes them.

Want to know more? Please join us for our virtual and in-person admission events!

EARLY CHILDHOOD AND LOWER SCHOOL EVENTS

MIDDLE SCHOOL AND UPPER SCHOOL EVENTS

WALK & TALK: MIDDLE SCHOOL, UPPER SCHOOL (Grades 6-12)

THURSDAY, OCT. 19 9 -10 a.m.

VIRTUAL EVENTS: MIDDLE SCHOOL AND UPPER SCHOOL INFO SESSIONS (Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12)

TUESDAY, OCT. 24 6:30-8 p.m.

VIRTUAL EVENT: EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION INFO SESSION

(pre-k for 2-yr-olds through kindergarten)

TUESDAY, SEPT. 26 1:30-2:15 p.m.

WALK & TALK: DOHERTY

(pre-k for 2-yr-olds through grade 5)

TUESDAY, OCT. 1O 9-10 a.m.

WALK & TALK: LOTSPEICH

(pre-k for 2-yr-olds through grade 5)

THURSDAY, OCT. 12 9-10 a.m.

VIRTUAL EVENT: LOWER SCHOOLS INFO SESSION

(pre-k for 2-yr-olds through grade 5)

THURSDAY, OCT. 26 9-10 a.m.

WALK & TALK: MIDDLE SCHOOL, UPPER SCHOOL (Grades 6-12)

THURSDAY, NOV. 2 9 -10 a.m.

VIRTUAL EVENT: STUDENT AND PARENT PANEL (Grades 6-12)

THURSDAY, JAN. 18 7-7:45 p.m.

by Susan Day

Treating Baby Eczema

Many infants and babies are pre-disposed to baby eczema because their skin barrier is more fragile than an adult’s. It’s hard to see your little one rubbing his cheeks back and forth on surfaces for relief, plus, that only makes it worse. The dry, flaky, red skin of eczema can confound you over and over again, but pediatricians from the Division of Allergy and Immunology at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital have answers to your questions.

What Should I Use?

In infants, eczema affects the face, scalp, arms and legs, but why? Children with this form of sensitive skin may have allergies to any number of things. While doctors say there is no known cure, it can be controlled with good skin care.

While doctors recommend creams over lotions to help soothe Baby’s skin, all babies are different and a little trial and error may be in order. Thicker cream creates a better barrier on your baby’s skin, decreasing skin breakdown. Cincinnati Children’s recommends the following creams to start with:

• Petroleum jelly

• Aquaphor ointment

• A-Mantle cream

• CeraVe cream

• Cetaphil cream

• Eucerin cream

• Vanicream

Is Bathing OK?

Here’s a routine that’s recommended for your baby with eczema:

• Bathe Baby in warm water — not hot — for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, then immediately pat him dry and within three minutes, apply a thick, moisturizing cream from neck to toes and carefully on any facial areas.

• Know that areas that are skin-toned (but dry and flaky) need a moisturizing cream applied minimally twice a day, but often more frequently.

• Pink or red areas mean inflammation and cream alone may not calm that down — those areas may require a steroid cream. Start with an over-the-counter 1-percent hydrocortisone cream applied thinly two times a day for up to a week. The cream should be used at least one hour apart from a moisturizing cream for best effectiveness and should not be put in a diaper area or near eyes without discussing with your pediatrician first.

• If honey-crusted scabbing is seen over broken skin, seek the advice of your pediatrician since this can be an indication of bacterial growth.

Since eczema is a tough problem, seeing the pediatrician early on may be best.

What if It’s Not Eczema?

Getting your baby’s condition diagnosed properly is important as it may or may not be eczema but an infection instead. At home, if Baby’s eczema treatments fail to work, it may be an infection requiring medicine. The medicine prescribed depends on the type of germ causing the infection — another riddle. A topical antibiotic is needed. If it’s a virus, the infection will require an anti-viral medicine like acyclovir. If it’s a fungal infection, your doctor will first prescribe an anti-fungal cream.

Signs of infection include:

• Flu-like symptoms of a fever (the thermometer reads 100.4 or higher). Seek your doctor’s care.

• Signs of infection without fever: If the creams and hydrocortisone don’t work, get a pediatric dermatologist referral from your pediatrician.

It’s helpful to know that many babies will outgrow eczema, but for some it may continue into adolescence or adulthood. Since it affects up to 20 percent of infants, trying remedies at home is a start. However, if everything you try doesn’t work, it’s on to your pediatrician.

Susan Day is the Editorial Director for this publication and a mom of four.

Other products are suggested by The National Eczema Foundation at nationaleczema.org.

“The itch that rashes” gives parents a mystery to solve: Cream? Lotion? Petroleum Jelly?

by Sarah Lyons

Helping Kids Face Their Fears

As a child, I thought my parents weren’t afraid of anything. I called for their help when I felt scared or nervous and they were always there to check under the bed for monsters and assure me that all was safe.

One day, I found a wasp flying around my room and I called my dad to help. When he saw what the problem was, he ran back out of the room in terror. My dad was terrified of wasps! At that moment, I realized that adults have fears, too.

It’s normal for children to have fears, says author Tamar Chansky, Ph.D., in her book, Freeing Your Child From Anxiety (Harmony; 2014). Kids may have bad dreams, be frightened of the dark, or find certain movie scenes scary. However, kids can develop fears that interrupt their everyday life such as a fear of speaking in front of others, fear of being dropped off at school, or fear of trying new things. Here are some tips to help kids face their fears.

Give Permission

Let your kids know that it is perfectly normal and acceptable to be scared. When you give a child permission to feel afraid, they can begin to acknowledge what is frightening them and face it head on.

Next, give your child tips on how to deal with different situations so you can work through the issue together.

Lauren Heller, a mother of twins, says, “For my preschoolers, we spend time talking about the event starting a few days before. I try to help them know what to expect and allow them to ask questions,” she says.

Problem Solve

Try to pinpoint exactly what your child is afraid of and discuss ways that it can be handled.

Teach Coping Skills

Each time your child is afraid, give him tools to overcome his fears. A child may be able to calm down by singing a song, hugging a stuffed animal, telling a joke, or declaring that monsters aren’t real.

While giving your child the tools he needs to face his fears, be reassuring that you are always there to help when he is afraid.

Reward Bravery

As you see your child overcome fears or at least make efforts to face the things that scare him, reward him for his bravery. Giving positive feedback and acknowledging his efforts will encourage your child to keep trying to confront the things that cause his anxiety. Your encouragement and praise can really build your child’s confidence so he is prepared to face a variety of challenges.

For example, when Jane Hammond’s 9-yearold daughter was afraid of falling during an ice skating competition, they discussed what would be the result of her fall — just get back up, no big deal.

“She did fall once in a competition, then got back up and finished. She was glad for the experience!” Hammond says.

If your child is afraid of the dark, using a night light may help solve the problem, or keeping the bedroom door open a crack. If it’s monsters under the bed he’s worried about, do a thorough check of the room together.

As you work through these steps with your child, continue to be patient and supportive. As scary situations arise, encourage your child to share her feelings with you so that you can deal with them together. And tell your child about the fears you had as a kid or have now (nothing too adult, mind you). For a kid, learning that your parent has a fear of wasps is fascinating. It makes you human, after all.

Sarah Lyons is a mom of six and a freelance writer

Each time your child is afraid, give him tools to overcome his fears.

Kids can have phobias about darkness, dogs, needles and more. Here’s how to help them cope.

by Sandi Schwartz

LIGHTEN UP

For parents everywhere, raising kids is hard! It’s the challenge of your lifetime, and since the world is nuts all around us, aim to have more fun, stress less and enjoy the ride.

Bring On the LAUGHTER!

Unleash the hidden power of laughing with your kids and discover the key to making it through the years.

Sometimes life can be tough. Whether we are feeling anxious about current affairs or dealing with a health issue, something as simple as laughter — believe it or not — can help us persevere.

As parents, we tend to get bogged down with our to-do lists and stresses of daily life and forget how beautiful it is to let loose and have a good laugh. Unfortunately, most

adults do not laugh enough. In fact, one study found that healthy children may laugh as much as 400 times per day, but adults only 15 times per day.

If we stop for a moment and observe our kids, they are probably laughing and playing freely without the weight of the world on their shoulders. We can learn so much from them when it comes to being lighthearted. It is so important that we raise them in such a way that they will continue to experience

fun and laughter throughout their lives. We can create a positive environment for them to grow up in by stopping once in a while to have a laughing fit together.

Why Is Laughter So Important?

Science shows us that laughter really is like medicine. According to the Mayo Clinic, laughing is one of the easiest ways for us to reduce stress and anxiety in our lives. Laughing transforms our body and mind in

so many amazing ways, boosting positive emotions like happiness, peace and humor.

When we laugh, the ventromedial prefrontal cortex of our brain is activated. This releases feel-good hormones — endorphins — that allow us to experience pleasure and satisfaction. Laughing also reduces our stress responses because the level of stress hormones like cortisol, epinephrine (adrenaline), and dopamine are lowered. We feel energized since we take in more oxygen-rich air when we laugh. Finally, laughing relaxes our muscles, which soothes tension from stress. In fact, a good laugh can leave your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes afterwards.

The muscles that help us smile also affect how we feel. When we use these muscles, we trigger a part in our brain that improves our mood. One particular research study involved having participants hold a pencil in one of three ways in order to get them to make certain facial expressions without telling them exactly what they were doing. The first group held the pencil sideways in their mouths to force a smile. The second group stuck the pencil in lengthwise to force a frown. The last group, serving as the control group, held the pencil in their hands. Participants were then asked to watch cartoons and rate how funny they were to them. The group with the sideways pencils (the “smiling” group) had higher funny ratings than the lengthwise group (the “frowning” group). The control group scored between the other two groups. This study showed how smiling and laughing can really make a difference in how we perceive the world around us.

Researchers also found that facial expressions can reduce negative feelings like pain and sadness. In one study, researchers applied an uncomfortable heat to subjects’ arms and then asked them to make either a relaxed face, an uncomfortable face, or a neutral face. The results showed that the people who made a relaxed face experienced less pain than those who made an uncomfortable or neutral face. This happens because smiling releases endorphins and serotonin, which are thought to minimize any pain we feel.

Laughter is beneficial because it also changes how we look at a situation. A silly moment can offer a healthy distraction from negative emotions like anger, guilt and stress. It sure is hard to feel negatively when you are cracking up! It also gives us a more lighthearted perspective when faced with challenges, and helps us view such events as positive opportunities as opposed to threats.

Next, laughter builds resilience, the ability to adapt well to adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats, or even significant sources of stress. When children are resilient, they are braver, more curious, more adaptable and more able to obtain happiness and success. Additionally, resilience can help cushion us from mental health conditions like anxiety and depression because it improves our ability to cope, according to the Mayo Clinic. Laughter plays a huge role in how we handle adversity by allowing us to escape from our problems for a little while. By teaching our kids to laugh even in times of pain, we are giving them a key tool that will help them be more resilient as they grow older.

Laughter Becomes “Can Do!”

Laughing with our kids is so special because it builds a bond with them. These joyous moments create a more uplifting environment at home. What’s really fun is that laughter tends to be contagious, so before you know it your whole house could be giggling up a

storm. Finally, the best part of laughing is that it’s completely free and always accessible to us. It also comes without any side effects (except for maybe a few aches on your side from laughing so hard).

Sandi Schwartz is an award-winning author, freelance journalist and a mother of two.

10 Ideas to Get You Rolling on the Floor

• Start a laughing contest to see who can make the other person laugh first.

• Play fun games like charades, Twister, Pictionary, and Headbanz.

• Read joke books and websites, and then share your favorites with each other.

• Create funny stories using Mad Libs or whisper down the lane.

• Have a family talent show and see who comes up with the funniest routine.

• Dress up in silly costumes.

• Watch a comedy show or movie together as a family.

• Talk in a silly language like pig Latin.

• Keep a collection of funny quotes and pictures that you can bring out at anytime to get every one laughing.

• Try laughter yoga with your kids. Created by Dr. Madan Katari in 1995 in Bombay, India, this yoga practice combines breathing exercises, yoga, stretching and laughing.

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

TCT Academy offers performing arts instruction from a professional theatre company, introducing children to all elements of live theatre, incorporating educational aspects as well as important life skills and milestones. It isn’t just learning how to sing, dance and act…It’s about gaining confidence, learning life skills and keeping your children active.

513-569-8080 | thechildrenstheatre.com

4015 Redbank Road, Cincinnati

YMCA of Greater Cincinnati

The Y’s Youth Sports help kids learn new skills, make new friends, develop essential character traits, and set individual and team goals. Youth basketball, ages 3 - 12. Learn basketball fundamentals in a positive and fun environment promoting youth development. Your child will meet new friends while learning about teamwork, focusing on sportsmanship, and building skills. Register by Sep. 15 for fall basketball.

myy.org/sports

Multiple Locations

Enrichment Programs and After-School Activities

Learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door. There’s so much more available for your child with programs and activities that cover all the bases, from the arts to sports, STEM to advanced academics. Explore the options o ered in our area, including those listed here.

Buckner Martial Arts

Voted one the best martial arts studios in Cincinnati, we combine defense skills with personal development. Students progress quickly while learning leadership and strong values under the teaching of master instructors. Fall classes forming now. Free uniform with class sign-up.

513-779-2413 | bucknermartialarts.com

8216 Highland Pointe Drive, West Chester

Dino Buddies

Dino Buddies is a fun, exciting and educational way to spice up any event, program, classroom, scout program, birthday party, or camp! We bring the ZOO to YOU by providing unique and up-close encounters with reptiles. Dino Buddies specializes in getting kids and adults excited about wildlife and taking care of the environment during our worthwhile award-winning encounters!

513-460-2737 | facebook.com/dinobuddiesllc

Girl Scouts of Western Ohio

Does your child dream of exploring space, running their own business, or advocating for climate justice? She needs somewhere to start. From writing code to hiking national parks, we will help her build skills and discover talents. But the most important thing she’ll discover? Who she is and everything she’s capable of accomplishing. Explore the possibilities! Be a Girl Scout. Troops forming now. Find one near you.

gswo.org

Mason Dance Center

We provide an opportunity for anyone ages 3 - adult to discover the joys of dance. Ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, modern, pre-professional ballet, pre-dance combos, adult classes. Register now for our 2023/24 school year classes. Fall mini sessions open soon. We also offer summer camps.

513-398-0353 | masondance.com

600-B Reading Road, Mason

Star Glazers

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! Awesome for birthday parties, church groups, school events, scout troops, and more.

513-474-6364 | starglazers.com

West Chester Academy Music, Dance, Acting and Gymnastics

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 pre-professional levels. We also have camps for all ages.

513-829-2345 | westchesteracademy.com

8107 Market Place Drive, West Chester

by Amanda Ciani

OCTOBER THINGS TO DO

We have you covered for all of the family fun your crew wants this time of year!

Inside the DAILY EVENTS on the following pages, a little pumpkin next to a listing indicates a seasonal happening.

FUN ON THE FARMS | PAW PATROL LIVE! | RINGLING BROS. BARNUM & BAILY CIRCUS | HALLOWEEN HOOTS

FAMILY FUN ON THE FARMS: Country Pumpkins, located in Dry Ridge, Kentucky, has this massive bench for photo ops in their sunflower field!

DAILY EVENTS

sun 1

FUN ON THE FARMS!

For Cincinnati Family’s complete roundup of all the local farm fun going on this month, go to cincinnatifamilymagazine.com/funthings-to-do/fall-fun-on-the-farms.

BRICKTIONARY: THE ULTIMATE

LEGO A - Z’

Closing Oct. 15! More than 150 custom-built models; test your skills at interactive zones. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; see website for pricing details; 513287-7000 or cincymuseum.org.

BURWINKEL FARMS

FALL FEST

Hayrides, sunflowers, pumpkin patch, corn mazes, a scavenger hunt, photo ops, fall décor and more. Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 31; 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; open daily, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Burwinkel Farms, 4359 Hamilton Cleves Road, Ross; $11 per person hayride option + $6 per person walking option; 513-738-1145 or burwinkelfarms.com.

CINCINNATI WALK FOR APRAXIA

Raise funds for children with apraxia, a neurological speech disorder. Delhi Park, 5125 Foley Road, CIncinnati; 1 p.m.; see website for registration and fundraising information: secure. apraxia-kids.org.

DONAUSCHWABEN OKTOBERFEST

Celebrate authentic German culture with live music, dance performances, food, drink and a special Kinderplatz area just for the kids. Donauschwaben, 4290 Dry Ridge Road, Cincinnati 12 - 8 p.m.; $5 admission; 513-385-2098 or donauschwabenreceptionhalls.com.

FALL ON THE FARM

Enjoy a corn maze, hop on the pumpkin bounce pad, take a hayride or spin around the bee train, pick a pumpkin, explore the petting farm, browse tasty goods and more. Blooms & Berries, 9669 S. St. Rt. 48, Loveland; through Oct. 31, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.; see website for pricing details; 513- 697-9173 or bloomsandberries.com.

FIRST FLOWERS @ KROHN CONSERVATORY

See a prehistoric land full of botanicals and dinosaurs! Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park, Cincinnati; through Oct. 22, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; $10 adults, $7 ages 5 - 17, free for ages 4 and younger; 513421-4086 or cincinnatiparks.com.

JACK O’ LANTERN JUNCTION

A maze with friendly ghosts, skeletons and candy, plus trains and Halloween mini scenes through Oct. 31; EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Court, West Chester; Sundays: 12 - 6 p.m., Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; see website for ticket pricing details; 513-898-8000 or entertrainmentjunction.com.

FREE KENTON COUNTY FARM TOUR

This self-guided tour will have you hopping from farm to farm, meeting animals and learning all about agriculture. Kenton County, Kentucky; 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; kentoncountyfarmtour.com.

KINGS ISLAND’S TRICKSAND- TREATS FESTIVAL

Don costumes and enjoy treats, lively entertainment and rides. Kings Island, 6300 Kings Island Dr., Kings Island; 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.; see website for ticket information; 513-754-5700 or visitkingsisland.com.

MERMAIDS AT NEWPORT AQUARIUM

The underwater mermaids are back and you can meet them on land, too, in the Shark Ray Bay Theater. Newport Aquarium, 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY; through Oct. 22, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; included with admission; 1-800-406-3474 or newportaquarium.com.

NELTNER’S FALL FESTIVAL

Horse-drawn wagon rides, model train display, a petting zoo and more. Live music on weekends 1:304:30 p.m.; Neltner’s Farm, 6922 Four Mile Road, Camp Springs;10 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekends; $7 per person weekends; free admission weekdays + extras; 859-496-7535 or neltnersfarm.com.

OHIO RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

Time Travelers weekend. Explore a 16th-century English village with shopping, shows, costumed characters, food and more. Ohio Renaissance Festival,10542 East State Route 73, Waynesville;10:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.; $28 adult general admission, $10 ages 5 - 12; free parking; 513-897-7000 or renfestival. com.

FREE SKATE DOWNTOWN CINCY

Skate the outdoor rink at Sawyer Point every Sunday, weather permitting. Riverfront Outdoor Rink, 925 Riverside Road, Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; skatedowntowncincinnati.com.

SUGAR RIDGE FARM

FALL FEST

Features a petting zoo, kiddie corral and games, hayrides, corn hole, a nature hiking trail and pumpkin patch. Trolley rides, bounce houses and corn cannon for a fee. Sugar Ridge Family Farm,12273 Green Road, Walton, KY; Saturdays in Oct.,10 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sundays 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; $10 per person, free

IN THE SWIM: Mermaids are back at Newport Aquarium and you can meet them on land, too!

for ages 2 and younger; 859-7438974 or sugarridgefamilyfarm.com/ fall-fest.

WAYNESVILLE FALL FEST

Features two mini-golf courses, a mega playset, corn maze, pedal cars, gem mining, carnival games, petting zoo and more. 7392 East State Route 73, Waynesville; 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.; $13 adult, $11 ages 10 and younger, free for ages 2 and younger + season passes available; waynesvillefallfest.com.

mon 2

FREE JAZZ AT THE PARK

Take in Cincinnati’s jazz scene. Tonight: Sergio Pamies

Oct. 9: Brad Myers & Many Gaines

Oct. 16: Daniel Bennet & The Dirty Shirlies

Oct. 23: Pamela Mallory

Oct. 30: Five Little Bears Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati; 6 - 9 p.m.; washingtonpark.org.

FREE LIL’ SPROUTS

Little gardeners can enjoy this bi-weekly drop-in series. Civic Garden Center, 2715 Reading Road, Cincinnati; 9 - 10:30 a.m.; 513-221-0981 or civicgardencenter. org/lil-sprouts.

tue 3

FREE ART PLAY HIKE (register)

Cincinnati Parks and the Contemporary Arts Center offer this outdoor, active nature program and art-making fun for ages 2 - 7. Bellevue Hill Park, 2191 Ohio Ave., Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org.

RESIDENT RAPTORS

A mini-program on raptors. Cincinnati Nature Center, Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 11 - 11:20 a.m.; $10 adults and $6 children (includes daily admission); free for ages 3 and younger and members.; 513-8311711 or cincynature.org.

wed 4

FREE PRE-MATCH IN THE PARK

Get ready for the FC soccer game with family-friendly activities at the park plus food trucks. Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati; 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.; washingtonpark.org.

FC SOCCER VS. NEW YORK

See the boys in orange and blue in a match! TQL Stadium, 1501 Central Pkwy., Cincinnati; 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $36. fccincinnati.com.

CELEBRATING SELF: THE AMERICAN DREAM (register)

Head to Fitton Center to hear Dr. Beka Yoxthimer speak. Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 S Monument Ave., Hamilton; 11:30 a.m.; $27 non-members, $21 Fitton Center members; 513-8638873 or fittoncenter.org.

POKEMON CLUB

Bring or borrow cards from the J to work on game skills during Pokémon Club. Dinner included. Mayerson JCC, 8485 Ridge Road, Cincinnati; 5:30 - 7 p.m.; $13 public, $10 J Member; 513-7617500 or myj.mayersonjcc.org.

FREE REC READS

Get little ones excited for art through stories, songs and sensory activities during this class in the Rosenthal Education Center. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park, Cincinnati; 11:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.; 513- 721-2787 or cincinnatiartmuseum.org.

thu 5

FREE BOOKERY STORY TIME

Read books, sing songs and meet Mr. Sprinkles! Bookery, 3704 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati; 10:30 a.m.; bookerycincy.com or bookerycincy.com.

FREE MADEIRA FARMERS MARKET

Browse local foods and goods, grab a bite, enjoy live music and more. Madeira Farmers Market, Miami Ave., Cincinnati; 4 - 7 p.m.; madeirafarmersmarket. com.

THE NEST 513

Ages 0 - 24 months can enjoy sensory fun led by educators. Nurture, 3443 Edwards Road, Ste. C 2nd Floor, Cincinnati; 10 - 10:25 a.m.; $12; 513-257-0955 or welcometonurture. com.

TURTLE TALES

Meet native Eastern box turtles, Bert & Ernie. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 11 a.m.; $10 adults and $6 children, includes daily admission; free for ages 3 and younger and members.; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

fri 6

FREE ARTLOCAL ART SHOW

A Jazz Age-themed reception, a dance hall, live music and more. Also on Oct. 7. Grove Event Center, 9158 Winton Road, Cincinnati; 7 - 10 p.m.; 513-5222108 or theartsconnect.us.

FREE BELLEVUE FALL FEST

Vendors, live music, food, drink, a faux pumpkin patch, police hayrides and more. Washington Ave., Bellevue, KY; 5 - 10 p.m.; fb.me/e/3N3rpJn6K.

COUNTRY FIRESIDE NIGHT

A bonfire, hayride, corn maze and four shots from the Pumpkin Launcher. Country Pumpkins Farm, 1835 Sherman Mt. Zion Road, Dry Ridge, KY; 7 - 10 p.m.; $16 admission; 859-905-9656 or countrypumpkinsky.com.

sat 7

FUN ON THE FARMS!

For Cincinnati Family’s complete roundup of local farm fun going on, go to cincinnatifamilymagazine. com.

FREE CAM KIDS DAY

From 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., ages 3 - 5 can enjoy art and storytime plus a performance. From 1 - 3 p.m., ages 5 - 12 can do activities and see a performance. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 513721-2787 or cincinnatiartmuseum. org.

FREE FREEDOM PARK TOUCHA-TRUCK

Trucks, a petting zoo, local food trucks and more. Freedom Park, 550 Freedom Park Drive, Edgewood, KY; 12 - 2 p.m.; fb.me/ e/1kcgEILCq.

KALEIDOSCOPE: AN EVENING WITH KRISTIN CHENOWETH

Benefiting Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Broadway star Kristin Chenoweth performs. Procter & Gamble Hall, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 8:30 p.m.; tickets start at $55; 513-621-2787 or cincinnatiarts.org.

cincinnatifamilymagazine.

(please turn the page)

FUN ON THE FARMS: Enjoy lots of different photo ops and more at Country Pumpkins. Get your complete fall farms roundup at

com.

DAILY EVENTS

LIVE ANIMAL VISIT

Meet animal ambassadors and investigate animal artifacts. Glenwood Gardens, 10397 Springfield Pike, Woodlawn; 10:30 a.m.; car permit required; 513-5217275 or greatparks.org.

MAKE A HIKING STICK

Use hand tools to make a walking stick then take it on a hike. Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 9 a.m.; $14 (includes daily admission), $8 members; 513- 8311711 or cincynature.org.

FREE MILFORD FALL FESTIVAL

Crafts, a hayride, petting zoo, face painting, a magician, live music and local birds of prey. Valley View Nature Preserve, 5330 S. Milford Road, Milford; 2 - 5 p.m.; milfordohio.org.

MONARCH FESTIVAL

Don butterfly costumes for monarch tagging, releasing and a pollinator parade! Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.; free with regular admission; see website for ticket pricing; 513-2817400 or cincinnatizoo.org.

OHIO RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

Viking Weekend. Ohio Renaissance Festival,10542 East State Route 73, Waynesville; 10:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.; $28 adult general admission, $10 ages 5 - 12 + free parking; 513-8977000 or renfestival.com.

PUMPKIN PATCH EXPRESS

Take a train ride to see fall leaves, get balloon pumpkins and make a pit stop at the pumpkin patch for a layover. Trains leave at 10 a.m., 12 or 3 p.m; also on Oct. 7, 8,14,15, 21, 22, 28 and 29. Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad, 127 S. Mechanic St., Lebanon; $27 adults, $22 seniors and ages 5 - 16, $5 ages 2 and younger; 513-933-8022 or lebanonrr.com.

SUNFLOWER FESTIVAL

Enjoy a crop maze, hayride, farm animals, booths, live music, pumpkins and Sunflowers for $1 per stem. Gorman Heritage Farm, 10052 Reading Road, Evendale; also Oct. 8, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Online: $12 adults, $6 children/ seniors, at the door: $15 adults, $8 children/seniors; 513- 563-6663 or gormanfarm.org.

THE ROAD TRIP MARKET

Browse booths for handmade gifts,

jewelry, home decor, fashions, flowers and more. Boone County Fairgrounds, 5819 Idlewild Road, Burlington, KY; 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $7 regular entry, $12 VIP early entrykids 12 and younger are free. Free parking; theroadtripmarket.com.

FREE WYOMING FALL

FESTIVAL

At the 40th annual festival, browse more than 80 vendor booths, enjoy live performances and more. Wyoming; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; wyomingohio.gov.

sun 8

SUNDAY STROLL (register)

Join a naturalist to learn about wildflowers. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 11 a.m.; $11 nonmembers, included with daily admission, $5 members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

mon 9

AQUA ART

Kids can paint with watercolors based on the day’s story. Lilypad Play, 2008 Madison Road, Cincinnati; Also on Oct. 23; $15

drop-in class, includes daily play pass; 513-321-1379 or lilypadplay.com.

tue 10

RECREATIONS OUTLET CHARITABLE PLAY

Gym play with 50 percent of the proceeds going to a chosen non-profit. Recreations Outlet, 885 Oh 28, Milford; 9 - 11 a.m.; $4 per child; recreationsoutlet.com.

wed 11

CHRIS TUCKER: THE LEGEND TOUR

Enjoy laughs from the actor, producer and comedian. Aronoff Center: Procter & Gamble Hall, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 8 p.m.; tickets start at $39.50; 513-6212787 or cincinnatiarts.org.

thu 12

FREE CREATURE CHRONICLES

Meet animals, hear a story and spend time outside. Miami Whitewater Forest, 9001 Mt. Hope Road, Harrison; 10 a.m.; vehicle permit required; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org.

TAYLOR TOMLINSON: THE HAVE IT ALL TOUR

A comedic evening with her selfdeprecating humor. Aronoff Center: Procter & Gamble Hall, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 7 p.m.; tickets start at $29.75; 513-621-2787 or cincinnatiarts.org.

fri 13

PAW PATROL LIVE! THE GREAT PIRATE ADVENTURE

Adventures with Ryder and his team of pirate pups, aiming to uncover hidden treasure. Truist Arena, 500 Louie B. Nunn Drive, Highland Heights, KY; 6 p.m. plus October 14: 10 a.m., 2 or 6 p.m., October 15: 11 a.m. or 3 p.m.; tickets start at $43; thetruistarena. com.

FREE CRITTERS OF THE NIGHT

Search for bats, snakes, owls and more. Bass Island, 3949 Newtown Road, Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; vehicle permit required; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org.

PAW PATROL LIVE!: The Great Pirate Adventure is at Truist Arena in Kentucky, Oct. 13 - 15. (please turn to page 22)

GROWING SNACKS

Drop by to prepare a healthy snack. Glenwood Gardens’ Highfield Discovery Center, 10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; $2 per person + vehicle permit required; 513-771-8733 or greatparks.org.

HAUNTED VILLAGE

A frightless event. Trick-ortreat through the village, enjoy a maze, balloon art, games, a critter zoo, face painting, storytelling and a haunted woods trail. Heritage Village Museum, 11500 Lebanon Road, Sharonville; Oct. 16 - 17, 2021 and 27 - 28; 6 - 10 p.m.; $12 per person online tickets/ $15 at the door, free for members and ages 2 and younger; 513-563-9484 or heritagevillagecincinnati.org.

FREE NORTHSIDE SUMMER SIDESHOW

Live music, food trucks and more. Hoffner Park, 4101 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati; 6 - 11 p.m.; cincinnatioh.gov.

FREE OPERATION PUMPKIN

Live music, activities, a pageant, pup parade, vendors, food and giant carved pumpkins. October 13 & 14: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. October 15: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. 1 High St., Hamilton; operation-pumpkin.org.

FREE SPOOKY SUMMIT

CINEMA: HOCUS POCUS

See Hocus Pocus outdoors. Summit Park Great Lawn, 4335 Glendale Milfoord Road, Blue Ash; 8 - 10:30 p.m.; 513-745-8500 or blueash.com.

sat 14

FUN ON THE FARMS!

For Cincinnati Family’s complete roundup of local farm fun going on, go to cincinnatifamilymagazine. com.

FREE EZZ FEST

The annual event includes live music, kids’ activities and more.

Ezzard Charles Park, 500 Ezzard Charles Drive, Cincinnati; 11 a.m.3 p.m.; cincinnati-oh.gov.

FREE CHAMBERPALOOZA

Children can enjoy an instrument petting zoo, hear live music and enter to win door prizes. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 12 - 4 p.m.; 513-7212787 or cincinnatiartmuseum.org.

FALL FARM FUN DAYS

See pumpkins carved into works of art, visit animals and more. Gorman Heritage Farms, 10052 Reading Road, Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.; included in admission: $5 adults, $3 children 3 - 17 and seniors 60+, free for ages 3 and younger; 513563-6663 or gormanfarm.org.

FREE FAMILY FESTIVAL: A CELEBRATION OF CREATIVITY

See the center’s new mural plus enjoy pillow-fort building, art making and more. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E. 6th St., Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org.

FAMILY NIGHT HIKE: CREEPY CRAWLY CRITTERS (register)

Explore the wildlife that calls the zoo home. Hike, play and see animals up close. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; 6 - 7:30 p.m.; $20 - 25; 513-559-7730 or cincinnatizoo.org.

HALLZOOWEEN 2023

Trick-or-treat, watch animals enjoy enrichment, see Phil Dalton’s Theater of Illusion and more.

Oct. 14 - 15, 21 - 22 and 28 - 29. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.; included with zoo admission; free for members; 513559-7781 or cincinnatizoo.org.

FREE KIDS’ FISH-OR-TREAT

Pumpkin painting, a costume contest plus a fishing competition. Lake Isabella, 10174 E Loveland Madeira Road, Loveland; 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.; vehicle permit required; 513-791-1663 or greatparks.org.

FREE MADE IN CAMP

Learn about Camp Washington makers during this neighborhoodwide festival. Includes new audio tours of the Cincinnati Sign Garden, a craft station, live music and more. American Sign Museum, 1330 Monmouth Ave., Cincinnati; 12 - 4 p.m.; 513-541-6366 or americansignmuseum.org.

FREE MONARCHS AND MUSIC

Listen to live music, learn about monarch tagging and more. Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, 3455 Poole Road, Cincinnati; 12 - 4 p.m.; vehicle permit required; 513521-7275 or greatparks.org.

OHIO RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

Celebrate Sweetest Day with a Mass Renewal of Vows ceremony. 10542 East State Route 73,

Waynesville; 10:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.; $28 adult general admission, $10 ages 5 - 12; free parking; 513-897-7000 or renfestival.com.

FREE PUMPKIN AND MUNCHKIN TRICKOR-TREAT CRAFT EVENT

Trick-or-treat with vendors and crafters from 12 - 4 p.m., then watch Ichabod Crane and The Headless Horseman at 5 p.m. Courtyard by Marriott Hamilton, 1 Riverfront Plaza, Hamilton; 12 - 6 p.m.; fb.me/e/ Xf4pDfh2.

SATURDAY KIDS CLUB @ STEPPING STONES (register)

Kids and young teens with disabilities can enjoy arts & crafts, sensory science projects, nature hikes and more with peers. Given Campus, 5650 Given Road, Cincinnati; 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.; $55 per session; 513-831-5918 or steppingstonesohio.org.

THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL: YOUTH EDITION

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati performs a one-hour edition of the hit musical. Taft Theatre, 317 E. 5th St., Cincinnati; 2 or 5 p.m., additional showtimes available through Oct. 22; tickets start at $10; 513-569-8080 x10 or thechildrenstheatre.com.

FREE THE CITY FLEA

Head to OTR for local vendors of all kinds, food trucks and the playground. Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; thecityflea.com.

FINDLAY MARKET FALL FOOD FEST

Sample goodies from local merchants and vendors. Also included are a fall-themed photo booth and live music. Findlay Market, 1801 Race Street, Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; pre-purchase tickets online at findlaymarket.org.

sun 15

AN AFTERNOON WITH DAVID SEDARIS

The best-selling humorist gives readings and recollections, a Q&A and book signing. Aronoff Center: Procter & Gamble Hall, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 3 p.m.; tickets start at $54; 513-621-2787 or cincinnatiarts.org.

CINCINNATI BENGALS HOME GAME

The Bengals take on the Seattle Seahawks. Paycor Stadium, 1 Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati; 1 p.m.; see website for ticket details; 513621-8383 or bengals.com/tickets.

FREE FAMILY FUNDAY: SPORTING FASHION

See Sporting Fashion, plus enjoy a performance, art-making and more. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; 513241-0343 or taftmuseum.org.

mon 16

FREE JOSEPH-BETH STORYTIME

Storytime for little ones. JosephBeth Booksellers, 2692 Madison Road, Cincinnati; 10:30 a.m.; 513396-8960 or josephbeth.com.

BE THRILLED! Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Baily

tue 17

GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY

This Tony Award-winning musical reimagines 20 legendary songs of Bob Dylan. Aronoff Center: Procter & Gamble Hall, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m., see website for additional showtimes; tickets start at $35; 513-621-2787 or cincinnatiarts.org.

wed 18

CREATE & PLAY: COMPETITION CLOTHING

All ages can learn about clothing made for athletes in the Sporting Fashion exhibit, plus, play interactive games, make art and more. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike Street, Cincinnati; 10:15 - 11 a.m. $12 adults, $10 seniors, free for members and ages 18 and younger; 513-241-0343 or taftmuseum.org.

KROHN CRAFT CORNER

First Flowers craft corner in the Bonsai Room. Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; $10 adults, $7 ages 5 - 17, free for ages 4 and younger; 513-421-4086 or cincinnati-oh.gov.

thu 19

PRESCHOOL STORY TIME AT HAPPY HANGOUT

Story, dancing and fun with friends. Happy Hangout Westside, 2041 Anderson Ferry Road, Cincinnati; 11 a.m.; included with playpass; 513-458-1470 or happyhangoutws.com.

fri 20

FAMILY FLASHLIGHT SCAVENGER HUNT (register)

An evening hunt in nature! Tonight and tomorrow night at Long Branch Farm & Trails, 6926 Gaynor Road, Goshen; 7:30 - 9 p.m.; $13 nonmembers, includes daily admission, $7 members; 513-8311711 or cincynature.org.

FITTON FAMILY FRIDAYS – PINOCCHIO (register)

CTC offers a new adaptation of the beloved puppet story. Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 S Monument Ave., Hamilton; 7:30 p.m.; $9 non-members, $7 Fitton Center members; 513-863-8873 or fittoncenter.org.

sat 21

FUN ON THE FARMS!

For Cincinnati Family’s complete roundup of local farm fun go to cincinnatifamilymagazine.com.

FC SOCCER VS. ATLANTA

See the boys in orange and blue in a match! TQL Stadium, 1501 Central Pkwy., Cincinnati; 5 p.m. Tickets start at $36. fccincinnati. com.

CYCLONES HOME OPENER

First home game of the 2023 - 24 season! The Cyclones face the Wheeling Nailers. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway, Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; tickets start at $21; 513-421-7825 or cycloneshockey. com.

FREE HALLOWEEN WALK IN THE WOODS

Wear costumes for trick-ortreating! Blue Ash Nature Park, 4337 Cooper Road, Blue Ash; 12 - 3 p.m.; blueash.com.

OHIO RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

Feast of Fools plus Pumpkin vs. Watermelon Wars! Ohio Renaissance Festival,10542 East State Route 73, Waynesville; 10:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.; $28 adult general admission, $10 ages 512; free parking; 513-897-7000 or renfestival.com.

sun 23

ABBAFAB: THE PREMIER ABBA EXPERIENCE

A tribute to ABBAs many hits. Aronoff Center: Jarson-Kaplan, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 3 p.m.; tickets start at $48; 513-621-2787 or cincinnatiarts.org.

FREE BOO FEST AT THE M.E. LYONS YMCA

Head to the Y for a floating pumpkin patch, friendly activities, crafts and more. M.E. Lyons YMCA, 8108 Clough Pike, Cincinnati; 3 - 5 p.m.; 513-4741400 or myy.org.

FREE MV FLEA

Booths with unique wares. Mainstrasse Promenade, 6th St., Covington, KY; 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 859-669-1425 or creativehousead. com.

PETER AND THE WOLF

The Mason Symphony Orchestra presents a familyfriendly sensory concert of Prokofiev’s narrated masterwork. Enjoy fun with instruments afterward. Mason United Methodist Church, 6315 Mason Montgomery Road, Cincinnati; 3 p.m.; $15 adults, $5 children; masonsymphonyorchestra.org.

tue 24

RESIDENT RAPTORS

A mini-program about birds of prey. Cincinnati Nature Center, Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 11 a.m. $10 adults, $6 children, free for ages 3 and younger and members.; 513-8311711 or cincynature.org.

thu 26

LEARN, GROW, EAT AND GO! (register)

Garden projects, tastings, stories, games and more during this Junior Master Garden program. Glenwood Garden Discovery Center,10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati; 9:45 a.m.; $9 per student, $6 adult + vehicle permit required; 513-771-8733 or greatparks.org.

THURSDAY ART PLAY: HALLOWEEN PARTY

Enjoy Halloween-themed art play — costumes encouraged! Kids will create “scary” artwork, trick-or-treat through the museum offices and more. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E. 6th St., Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; $5 per non-member child, free for members; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org.

fri 27

THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW (register)

The cult classic showing in time for Halloween includes a special shadow-cast performance. Best for teens and older. Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 S Monument Ave., Hamilton; 10 p.m.; $14 non-members, $12 Fitton Center members; 513-8638873 or fittoncenter.org.

PARENT’S NIGHT OUT AT KIDS FIRST TOO

Crafts, pizza and drinks plus a Halloween Costume Party. Kids First, Too, 855 OH 28, Milford; 6 - 9 p.m.; $49 first child + $38 each additional child; discounts available for enrolled participants; 513-831-4333 or kidsfirsttoo.com.

RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY’S THE GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH Super-human feats in an immersive, 360-degree environment. See high wire acts, trapeze, bicycle stunts and more. Heritage Bank Center,100 Broadway, Cincinnati; Oct. 27: 7 p.m.; Oct. 28: 11 a.m., 3 or 7 p.m., Oct. 29: 11 a.m. or 3 p.m.; tickets start at $20; 513-421-4111 or heritagebankcenter.com.

(please turn the page)

Circus is at the Heritage Center Oct. 27 - 29.

sat 28

FUN ON THE FARMS!

For Cincinnati Family’s complete roundup of local farm fun go to cincinnatifamilymagazine.com.

FREE CANDY EXPRESS BARREL TRAIN

Ages 12 and younger can ride the farm collecting candy. Country Pumpkins Farm, 1835 Sherman Mt. Zion Road, Dry Ridge, KY; 23 p.m.; 859-905-9656 or countrypumpkinsky.com.

FREE FALL FEST AT WASHINGTON PARK

Entertainment, craft vendors, children’s activities and more. Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; 513621-4400 or washingtonpark.org.

FITTON SHOWSTOPPERS: HOME SPUN (register)

Hip-hop, rap, dance, spoken word, and visual art. Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 S Monument Ave., Hamilton; 7:30 p.m.; $43 non-members, $35 Fitton Center members; 513-8638873 or fittoncenter.org.

FREE HOWL-O-WEEN HOOTENANNY

Trick-or-treating, a friendly hay maze, scavenger hunt, DJ, face painting, pet costume contest and more! ArtsConnect’s front lawn, 9158 Winton Road, Cincinnati; 12 - 3 p.m.; 513-5222108 ortheartsconnect.us.

NIGHT PUMPKIN HIKE (register)

Take a jack-o-lantern- lit hike, enjoy a campfire and more. 6:30 p.m. Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve/ Ellenwood Nature Barn, 3455 Poole Road, Cincinnati; $5 + $3 for a pumpkin; vehicle permit required; 513-521- 7275 or greatparks.org/calendar.

NATURE’S CANDYLAND ADVENTURE (register)

Tricks, treats and surprises — wear costumes! Cincinnati Nature Center, Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 6:30 - 8 p.m.; $11 nonmembers; includes daily admission, $5 members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

OHIO RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

Tricks or Treats weekend. Ages 12 and younger are free. Ohio Renaissance Festival,10542 East

State Route 73, Waynesville; 10:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.; $28 adult general admission + free parking; 513-897-7000 or renfestival.com.

FREE SENSORY MORNINGS AT THE CAC: Sensorial Halloween activities at 44 E 6th St., Cincinnati; 9 a.m.10 a.m.; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org.

FREE SENSORY SATURDAY

Kids can borrow a sensory bag with hands-on items and explore the musuem. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.; 513721-2787 orcincinnatiartmuseum. org.

SIGN CRAFTING SATURDAY (register)

Learn sign-making skills and more. $15 adults, $10 ages 1318. American Sign Museum,1330 Monmouth Ave., Cincinnati; 1 - 3 p.m.; 513-541-6366 or americansignmuseum.org.

FREE STAR PARTY

Use a telescope to observe the sky. Enjoy a bonfire & treats. Valley View, 5330 South Milford Road, Milford; 6 - 8 p.m.; donations appreciated; 513-218-1098 or facebook.com/ valleyviewfoundation.

sun 29

FREE HALLOWEST

Wear costumes to enjoy games, face painting, inflatables, live music, food trucks and more. Mt. Airy Forest, 5083 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati; 2 - 9 p.m.; cincinnatioh.gov.

FREE RAPTOR OPEN HOUSE

Learn about birds of prey at Raptor Inc., 961 Barg Salt Run Road, Milford; 1 - 4 p.m.; 513-8253325 or raptorinc.org.

FREE TRICK-OR-TREAT WITH THE BALLET (register) Try a Monster Mash dance class, trick-or-treat and enjoy a performance at 1 or 3 p.m. Cincinnati Ballet, Margaret and Micheal Valentine Center for Dance,1801 Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati; 1 p.m.; 513-621-5282 or cballet.org/events/trick-or-treat. mon 30

FREE BOO FEST AT THE BLUE ASH Y

Trunk-or- treat and more activities at the Y. Blue Ash YMCA, 5000 YMCA Drive, Cincinnati; 5:307:30 p.m.; 513-791-5000 or myy. org.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN! Have a fun Halloween — and be sure to go over your trick-or-treat rules with the kids before heading out!

Fall = Flu Vaccine

By getting a flu vaccine for yourself and your entire family every year, you can help prevent flu-related illness, missed school, and missed work. Everyone 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop an immune response. Get vaccinated now so you will be protected all season long!

Come See Why We are Voted Best

Rebecca A. Dandoy, MD

Kenton A. Pate, MD

James M. Komer, MD

Diana E. Small, MD

Jennifer Thornicroft, FNP

Memory Basile,

October at the Y

Break out your Halloween costumes early for free family events at the Y. Each party is a unique blend of games, crafts, dance parties, costume contests, trunk-or-treating, and more for families to spend quality time together.

Saturday, October 14 | Noon–2pm

Clermont County YMCA

2075 James E. Sauls, Sr. Drive | Batavia, Ohio 45103

Trunk-or-Treat and family activities

Saturday, October 21 | Noon-2pm

Highland County YMCA

201 Diamond Dr. | Hillsboro, Ohio 45133

Trunk-or-Treat and family activities

Saturday, October 21 | 3-7pm

Gamble-Nippert Y at Westwood Town Hall

3017 Harrison Ave. |Cincinnati, OH 45211

Costume contest and family crafts

Sunday, October 22 | 3-5pm

M.E. Lyons YMCA

8108 Clough Pike | Cincinnati, Ohio 45244

Floating Pumpkin Patch and family activities

Thursday, October 26 | 6-7:30pm

Clippard Family YMCA

8920 Cheviot Rd. | Cincinnati, Ohio 45251

Trunk-or-Treat and family activities

Friday, October 27 | 5:30-7:30pm

Campbell County YMCA

1437 S. Ft. Thomas Ave. | Ft. Thomas, KY 41075

Halloween party and family activities

Friday, October 27 | 6:30 – 8:30pm

R.C. Durr YMCA

5874 Veterans Way | Burlington, KY 41005

Trunk-or-Treat, dance party, and family activities

Saturday, October 28 | Noon – 3pm

Powel Crosley YMCA at Arts Connect

9158 Winton Rd. | Cincinnati, Ohio 45231

Trick-or-Treating, games, and hay maze

Monday, October 30 | 5:30-7:30pm

Blue Ash YMCA

5000 YMCA Dr. | Cincinnati, Ohio 45242

Trunk-or-Treat and family activities

See what makes the Y so special to young families. Members enjoy child watch while they work out, 50% discounts on programs, time spent together learning new skills, and belonging to a welcoming community.