NOVEMBER 2023
2022
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2023 BEST OF PARENTING WINNERS INSIDE! INCLUSIVE PLACES FOR KIDS OF ALL KINDS
Cuddle Up for the Holidays FESTIVE THINGS TO DO • SHOP HOLIDAY MARKETS • LIGHT SHOWS
A GAYLORD HOTELS ORIGINAL EXPERIENCE
Don’t miss ICE! at Gaylord Opryland. Explore the classic Christmas story of The Polar Express™ in this amazing winter wonderland of larger-than-life ice sculptures, thrilling frozen slides, and mesmerizing passageways. Tickets and packages are on sale now. Book a room night or package and receive exclusive benefits for overnight guests. NOV. 10 - JAN. 1 ChristmasAtGaylordOpryland.com THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
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
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CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is published monthly by DAYCOM MEDIA, INC. Although every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of published material, DAYCOM MEDIA cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. Editorial and business offices are located at 10945 Reed Hartman Hwy., Ste 323, Cincinnati, OH 45242. The phone number is 513-322-5052. 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.
Thanksgiving into Christmas, the holidays bring us together like no other time of year — enjoy!
IN THIS ISSUE 2 3
5
Editor's Note When kids teach us life lessons.
FEATURES 4
" I come from a family where gravy is considered a beverage." —Erma Bombeck, American humorist
Feedback In time for the holidays we're giving away Gaylord, Opryland getaways! Plus, moms talk about kids packing their own lunches — or not.
THINGS TO DO! 15
DISCOVER THE YEAR'S WINNERS!
The holidays begin this month and we've got all of the jingles and jollies to prove it. Turn to Things to Do for all of you family outing plans!
Cincinnati News Holidays on the Farm at Parky's Farm includes curling as an activity this year; private school open houses; parent news briefs.
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Kids Health One way to know if your child needs physical therapy (PT) is by keeping track of developmental milestones — and reaching out to your pediatrician if you have a concern. Read on to learn about PT and its benefits.
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Spaces and Places for Special Needs Kids Check out our roundup of local accommodations for kids.
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Your little one's favorite tiger — Daniel — brings his grr-ific show, Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood LIVE! to the Taft for one performance only on Nov. 24 (but he'll be in Dayton on the 25th!) november 2023 1
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When Kids Teach You Life Lessons
y 7-year-old daughter taught me a valuable lesson, and I learned from it, too. Evelyn, my oldest daughter, came running off the bus ready to tell me something important. She was so hyped up about a cool opportunity happening at her school. With excitement in her cute little voice, she explained to me how she might get on what they call “Character Team.” Not missing one important detail, she went on to tell me how Character Team is when you get to be a leader at school. She would get to work in the principal's office and participate in fun activities that only leaders get to do. All she needed to do was fill out an application that explains why she should be on Character Team and what she would do if she were chosen. Not even being biased, I thought her idea was amazing. I was super proud of her for thinking of it all on her own: She wrote, “I will help new kids at school by showing them around our school.” She didn’t hesitate to fill it out and ask for help with the big words. I want to record this moment in my mind because it was one of those proud, sweet moments we experience time-to-time with our kids that you don’t want to forget (it’s a good thing I am writing this down right now!) As proud as I was, I was also nervous for her. What if she dœsn’t get it? I don’t want her to be disappointed, but I also need to let her know that it could happen. With a deep inhale I explained, “Eva, you know there are a lot of leaders in your school like you who also want to be on the Character Team, and not everyone is able to be on it. So if you don’t get it, still be happy for the kids that did.” She quickly replied, “I know, Mommy!” We stopped there with a big hug, smile and our fingers crossed. Up until the day for the Character Team to be chosen, she wouldn’t stop talking about it. Evelyn got ready for school that day faster than ever and off she was. Well, she did not get on Character Team. I couldn’t tell if a sad, happy or neutral girl was running off the bus that day. I waited to hear what she said, “I didn’t get on Character Team, Mommy.” As I started to reply with the best advice I could think of without making anything worse, she quickly said, “It’s OK though! I wasn’t a bad sport. Some kids were really upset and I told them to not be upset because it’s OK — you don’t always get everything that you want.” I giggled inside trying to remember if this was one of my lessons I taught her or a combination of everything. I smiled and told her how proud I was of her for trying her best and being so positive. Off she went, to the next thing. Wow, that was easy! What was I so worried about!? I thought. Soon after, a day came where I was disappointed to not get something I worked so hard for. I put in miles, dedication, time and hard work to qualify for the Boston Marathon. You better believe that I qualified, however, I didn't get in amongst the pool of a record number of applicants this year. Before I got down and let it ruin my day, I chose to be like Evelyn. That little gal taught me a valuable lesson that day: be proud of who you are, never give up and never stop learning from your kids — they can teach you life lessons, too!
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Question! At what age did you let your kids pack their own school lunches? Or have you always done it?
Gaylord Opryland debuts Ice! Polar Express during the 40th Annual "A Country Christmas," running Nov. 10 - Jan. 1, 2024.
Win!
“My youngest started at 6 because he saw his 10- and 12- year-old siblings pack theirs! His peanut butter sandwiches had peanut butter all over the sandwich bags, but I just bragged on him and he always did it." Pamela Cummins Johnson
A Country Christmas Getaway to Gaylord Opryland
'T
is the most wonderful time of the year, so why not make it more so? Cincinnati Family is giving away two certificates to Gaylord Opryland for all of the Christmas festivities happening at the resort. Included are two nights of traditional room accommodations for up to a family of four; admission to "Ice!" featuring the Polar Express; admission to Ice Tubing plus all applicable taxes, daily resort fee and daily self-parking for one car. Cincinnati Family will announce the winners on Friday, Nov. 10. To enter, head to cincinnatifamilymagazine.com under the "Contests" tab.
Win!
An Immersive Gamebox Experience
I
mmersive Gamebox, now open at Newport on the Levee offers a wide variety of games from popular shows for families to play. Hightech gameboxes accommodate two to six players and are equipped with technology to transport players to a parallel universe! Learn more at immersivegamebox.com. Cincinnati Family is giving away an experience for a family of four valued at $120. To enter, head to cincinnatifamilymagazine.com under the "Contests" tab through Nov. 17.
ON THE COVER Sisters Landyn (7) and Charley (4) photographed by Maria D. Photography.
"My husband packs all lunches as a way to support all of us headed out the door!" Kelly Poulin “I still do it for ages 14 and 5 and enjoy it! To me it's one of those things that you won't get to do forever, so cherish it now. They have other responsibilities in the house." Leanna Reis "My daughter started helping in preschool and now, as a kindergartner, packs it herself and we check when she’s done. She’s also involved with helping with grocery shopping, but those are things she enjoys contributing, too."
“My boys started packing their own lunches last year ... at 15 and 12. But I still pack my daughter's lunch at the age of 9." Trisha Dilley “I always packed my Son's - unless he chose to buy on certain days." Sandra Almas “Second grade! I create the lunch station (dairy bin, fruit/ veggie bin, drink bin) in garage fridge and they grab what they want and are responsible for making their sandwich or packing leftovers. Less food waste!" Tina Pratt “Eight and 11. We still pack for them but they help select the items that are included." Robin Mueller “I still make the sandwich, but they put everything else together, and have since first grade."
April Rhodes
Candi Parsons
"It’s part of the mom job I enjoy doing we only get to for 'x' amount of years! My senior started packing her lunches in middle school sporadically now as a senior she always does her own makes me sad."
“I still pack for my 12 year old, but she does help. We sort of tag-team it. It's done faster, she feels like she has some control and I can be sure she is making good food choices."
Tonya Luckett-Soldano
“David Heitker, we're doing it wrong; why are we still packing lunches??"
Emily Schweiger Heekin
Hayley Heitker
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
november 2023 3
Best of Parenting Award Winners Winners are shown BLUE. Finalists are shown in black (alphabetical order).
BEST EATS Best Family Restaurant Skyline Chili
Chick-fil-A • Silver Spring House Restaurant
Best Mexican Restaurant El Rancho Grande Acapulco • Mazunte
Best Family-Friendly Brewery Fifty West Brewing
Madtree Brewing • Rhinegeist Brewery
Best Pizza Dewey’s
LaRosa’s • Two Cities NKY WINNER – Snappy Tomato
Best Ice Cream Graeter’s
The Cone • The Loveland Dairy Whip
Best Local Bakery (Tie) The BonBonerie • 3 Sweet Girls Cakery Busken Bakery
BEST PARTIES Best Party Entertainer Gia’s Balloon Buddies
Dino Buddies LLC • Star Glazers
Best Away-From-Home Party Urban Air Castle Skateland • Topgolf
Best Party Rental Bounce House Blitz
A-1 Amusement Party Rental • Cincinnati Bounce
BEST DESTINATIONS Best Family Weekend Getaway Indianapolis Children’s Museum Columbus Zoo • COSI
Best Vacation Destination Destin FL
Disney World/Orlando FL • Hilton Head SC
Best Sleep-Away Camp Falcon Camp
Best Dance Studio Premier Tumbling and Dance
Best Live Theater Venue Aronoff Center
Best Gymnastics West Chester Academy
King’s Island • Smale Riverfront Park
Children’s Theater of Cincinnati • Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park
Best Live Music Venue Riverbend Music Center
Bogart’s • Cincinnati Music Hall
BEST SHOPPING Best Resale/Consignment Once Upon A Child
Play It Again Sports • Snooty Fox NKY WINNER – St. Vincent de Paul of NKY
Best Toy Store King Arthur’s Court
Flying Pig Toys • Puzzle Pieces
Best Furniture Store This and That Consignments
Highley Vintage • Newborn to Teen
Best Retail Shopping Kenwood Mall
King Arthur’s Court • Stoney’s Village Toy Shoppe
BEST APPEARANCE Best Day Spa Mitchell’s Salon & Day Spa Woodhouse Spa
Best Kids Photographer Miranda Hertel Photography
Agnes Kindberg Photography • Say Yes to Jess
BEST PARENTING RESOURCES Best Child Care Center The Goddard School of Mason
The Gardner School of Blue Ash • Primrose School
Best Preschool The Summit Country Day School
Children’s Meeting House • Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy
BEST PETS
NKY WINNER – YMCA Camp Ernst
Best Pet Boarding Red Dog Pet Resort and Spa
Gorman Heritage Farm • Niederman Family Farm
BEST OF OUR CITY Best Local Day Camp YMCA of Greater Cincinnati
Cincinnati Zoo • Code Ninjas Green Township
Best Museum Cincinnati Museum Center
Cincinnati Art Museum • Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park
4 november 2023
Many thanks to all the businesses and services who support parents and Cincinnati Family!
Best Tourist Attraction Cincinnati Zoo
YMCA Camp Campbell Gard • YMCA Camp Kern
Best Farm Outing Country Pumpkins
The winners and finalists for the 2023 Best of Parenting Awards came through YOUR votes! Thank you, readers, for participating!
Camp Bow Wow • PetSuites
Best Veterinarian Mason Animal Hospital
Cincinnati Animal Medical Center • King’s Veterinary Hospital
BEST ENRICHMENT Best Tutoring/Learning Service Mathnasium
Code Ninjas of Anderson • Kumon
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
Cincinnati Ballet • Mason Dance Center
Kids First • Perfection Gymnastics
Best Cheerleading Queen City Storm Cheer and Dance
Prestige Cheer Athletics • TGC - The Gymnastics Center
Best Martial Arts Premier Martial Arts
Buckner Martial Arts • Cincinnati Quest Martial Arts
Best Music Instruction School of Rock
Cincinnati Music Academy • Cincinnati School of Music
Best Theater Class/Camp The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati
Acting Up! • Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park
Best Horseback Riding-Lessons Winton Woods JET Education Center
BEST HEALTH & FITNESS Best Pediatrician Children’s Medical Center
Anderson Hills Pediatrics • Montgomery Pediatrics
Best Pediatric Dentist Village Pediatric Dentistry
Loveland Pediatric Dentistry • Sea of Smiles NKY WINNER – Union Pediatric Dentistry
Best Orthodontist Cassinelli, Shanker & Associates Orthodontics Johnson Orthodontics • Struckhoff Orthodontics
Best Hospital Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center The Christ Hospital • Mercy Health
Best Place to Have a Baby Good Samaritan Hospital
Bethesda North • The Christ Hospital NKY WINNER – St. Elizabeth Hospital
Best OB/GYN Hilltop OB/GYN
Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates • Seven Hills Women’s Health Center
Best Family Fitness Center YMCA of Greater Cincinnati
Mason Community Center • TriHealth Fitness and Health Pavilion
Best Pediatric Therapy ABC Pediatric Therapy
Big Blue Canopy • Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center NKY WINNER – KTL Therapy
CINCINNATI NEWS by Amanda Ciani
Holidays on the Farm Nov. 24 - Dec. 17, Fri. - Sun. 5 - 9 p.m. Dec. 21 - 23, 5 - 9 p.m. Dec. 26 - 31, 5 - 9 p.m.
CURLING: Guests will be able to slide stones down artificial ice toward a target zone as a team.
Curling Added to Parky's Farm Holidays on the Farm at Parky's Farm is back for another season (beginning Friday, Nov. 24) and curling has been added to all of the festive options.
P
opular seasonal event Holidays on the Farm returns to Parky's Farm for all kinds of family fun starting Friday, November 24. Better than ever, the 2023 event features even more lights and displays along with Santa’s reindeer and other farm friends, a train display, pony
and wagon rides, entertainment, firepits and food trucks, too. New this year, guests can try their luck with the popular wintertime sport of curling! Be sure to add this illuminating and naturefocused event to your family's winter itinerary. Parky's Farm is located at 10073 Daly Road in Cincinnati. Find out more at greatparks.org/parks/winton-woods/parkys-farm.
LEARN TO CURL AT CINCINNATI CURLING CLUB Want to learn to curl before going to Parky's? Cincinnati Curling Club offers lessons for $50 a per person (group registration, too) — in addition to programs for teens and adults. Cincinnati Curling Club "Learn to Curl" sessions are registering now and take place Sat., Nov. 4 and 25 in addition to Dec. 2 and 9 — all at 3:30 p.m. The club's ice location is at 5150 Duff Drive in West Chester. Register at cincinnaticurlingclub.org.
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
november 2023 5
local news
Private School Open Houses This Month Explore educational options for your kids by attending an open house: 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. MARS HILL ACADEMY marshill.edu | 513-770-3223 4230 Aero Drive, Mason, OH Saturday, Nov. 4 from 9:30 - 11 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. 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 | 513-8717218 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 Upper School Open House: Thursday, Nov. 16 from 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Students at Summit Country Day, located in Cincinnati. The school serves children starting at 18 months and continues to high school. It is a co-educational, Catholic, private, independent and college-preparatory
Newsy Bits
school.
Shop Local this Holiday
Capture Baby's Pogo Pass: ExFingers & Toes! plore the Town
School Out, Camp In
Stepping Stones Respite
T
F
I
T
he Greater Cincinnati Holiday Market is “gifting” families an extra day of shopping at their 2023 event. Now with Thursday hours, shoppers can support local businesses for four days from November 9 - 12 at the Duke Energy Convention Center. With more than 400 booths, this popular market is known for unique items, decor, apparel, toys, treats and Santa! Head to cincinnatiholidaymarket.com to learn more.
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or a truly unique keepsake of your little one, artist, Mary Foltz, helps families capture their baby’s delicate digits with museum-quality molds through Ambrosia Lifecasting. Casts are the perfect gift for expecting and new mommies and packages begin at $225. Find out more by emailing ambrosialifecasting@gmail.com or check out images at the Facebook page for Ambrosia Lifecasting.
C
incinnati families can explore the city in an affordable way with Pogo Pass. Purchasing a pass at one price ($99.98 per pass) means a year of fun, including a visit to Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden; EnterTRAINment Junction; Jump! Zone; National Underground Railroad Freedom Center; Cincinnati Museum Center; and more! Find out more at pogopass.com/cincinnati.
f school is out, camp is in at Kids First Too! If you don't want your kids hanging around the house all day, sign them up for gymnastics, ninja, arts and crafts, playing outdoors, Recreation Outlet playtime and other games! Kids First Too is located at 885 State Route 28, Milford. Camps are available Nov. 20 - 22, 8:45 a.m. - 4:15 p.m. for $75 a day (sibling discount + before/after care available). 513-831-4333 or kidsfirsttoo.com.
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
eens and adults with disabilities can enjoy new experiences, build independence and more during two-night retreats offered by Cincinnati nonprofit Stepping Stones. Ages 16 and older can enjoy the Allyn Campus’s 47 acres for hiking, boating, fishing and more. Retreats take place Nov. 3 - 5 or Nov. 17 - 19 at 1414 Lake Allyn Road, Batavia for $350 per session. Call 513-831-4660 or steppingstonesohio. org/weekend-respiteprogram.
GET TO KNOW U S! 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!
FALL ADMISSION
EVENTS
Award-winning live educational reptile encounters for kids of all ages! Invite us to your birthday party, classroom, private event, library, summer camp and more!
MIDDLE SCHOOL AND UPPER SCHOOL EVENTS WALK & TALK: MIDDLE SCHOOL, UPPER SCHOOL
(Grades 6-12)
THURSDAY, NOV. 2 9 -10 a.m.
VIRTUAL EVENT: STUDENT AND PARENT PANEL
513-460-2737 dinobuddies513@gmail.com facebook.com/dinobuddiesllc
(Grades 6-12)
THURSDAY, JAN. 18 7-7:45 p.m.
Star Glazers
Pottery Paintat YOUR Location!
PAINT POTTERY FOR HOLIDAY GIFTS! ALL VIRTUAL EVENTS WILL BE PRESENTED VIA ZOOM
Dec. 2, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Evendale Cultural Arts Center
Register by calling 513-563-2247 LEARN MORE AND REGISTER: 7HILLS.ORG/EXPLORE 513.728.2400
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www.starglazers.com
513-474-6364
StarGlazersPaintPotteryAtYourLocation
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november 2023 7
kids health by Amanda Hayward
Many kids on the spectrum need physical therapy — and there’s a lot to know about it.
ROAD TO PHYSICAL THERAPY
F
or parents who have a child with autism, like Heather Haley, it can go like this: Heather and her son, Peter, were attending an autism preschool where he received occupational therapy. It’s quite common for kids to run toward the swing set during play time or recess and go soaring on their tummies because it’s just plain fun. Not many parents would think twice about it. In Haley’s son Peter’s case, that was his preference rather than sitting upright the “correct” way, and for kids who have autism, swinging is a big part of OT, she says. “His therapists would comment about how he preferred to swing on his stomach because he had a weak core,” Haley says. “The ideal would be for him to be sitting upright to swing. At school during conferences, the teachers were telling me that Peter’s biggest obstacles to progress were motor planning issues and his general sense of body awareness. They also would comment that having a weak core made it hard for him to sit and pay attention in the classroom.” It wasn’t then that she realized it was physical therapy that her son needed; it was the moment when she was filling out a questionnaire to prepare for a consultation with her doctor. “The form asked, ‘Does your child have motor issues?’ Which I answered with a resounding, ‘Yes.’ Then it asked if your child is getting physical therapy for their motor issues. That’s when the light bulb went on,” she says.
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Can Your Child Benefit From PT?
Having the “aha” moment that your child needs PT doesn’t exactly happen overnight. You may think that they are just being a kid or this too shall pass. So how do you know? One way is by paying attention to milestones that may not be met and asking your doctor, just to be safe. With some trial and error, there are ways to know if your kid is in need of a PT consultation. Puja Gaitonde, physical therapist and founder of Big Blue Canopy, says you can detect if your child may need PT as early as babyhood. “If the baby is having difficulty holding their head up it may indicate decreased tone, or if your child feels floppy when changing their diaper or carrying them,” she says. In older kids, low muscle tone or decreased core strength can be a tell-all, says Gaitonde. If you notice your big kid is leaning into the table or needing a backrest/slouching when sitting on a chair for tabletop activities, PT may be in the cards. “Tone and strength both affect posture,” says Gaitonde. “These kiddos can benefit from strengthening exercises and stretches to help maintain a better posture and decrease the chance of pain or discomfort.” Some other signs to look out for according to Gaitonde include decreased coordination on the playground; inability to go up the steps without assistance; having challenges when participating in group/recreation sports, toe walking that is persistent past age 2 and repeated injuries. “Most kids will avoid certain activities if
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they are challenging for them,” she continues. “If the kiddo consistently avoids certain activities it may be a good idea to get the underlying cause evaluated,” says Gaitonde. In Peter’s case, he needed help with core strength and participation in everyday activities. PT helped open the doors to new activities and possibilities for him. “In physical therapy, they worked on strengthening Peter’s core in playful ways,” says Haley. “Now he sits upright when he swings.” The best thing you can do as a parent is to encourage your child to overcome new obstacles, set up your home environment for success and praise even the smallest achievements. Amanda Hayward is editor of this magazine and a mom of four.
Helpful Resources BIG BLUE CANOPY | bigbluecanopy.com Offers age-appropriate activity ideas and more. CONNECTING FOR KIDS | connectingforkids.com Education and support for families. CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION | cdc.gov Provides tools to help you navigate physical therapy, early intervention and more. CINCINNATI CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER | cincinnatichildrens.org The Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy (OTPT) division offers specialized and personalized services.
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november 2023 9
Parenting 101
Milestones, Inc. provides therapeutic horseback riding to individuals with challenges.
Places & Spaces for
Special Needs Kids by Charles Infosino
All kids deserve experiences that benefit their well-being.
A
special needs child is defined as a child who requires special education because these children may have learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, physical disabilities or emotional difficulties. Those of us who have special needs children know that we need to find educational and entertainment options that cater to them. Fortunately for Greater Cincinnati residents, our region is rich in these organizations. Here are some noteworthy ones.
10 november 2023
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
ANIMALS CINCINNATI ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDEN 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati cincinnatizoo.org/plan-yourvisit/zoo-access-for-all
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden has an Access for All program to accommodate its guests with special needs. The zoo provides resources for individuals with developmental disabilities including calming rooms, sensory bags, Access passes and sensory-friendly restrooms. The Calming Rooms are private spaces in the zoo that include several items and tools, such as rocking chairs, dimming lights, bubble walls and weighted lap pads. Sensory Bags provide on-the-go tools for guests, such as chewy tubes, noise-reducing headphones, sunglasses, scratch and sniff stickers, bendy fidget toys and pinwheels. Access Passes are available for guests who may have difficulty waiting in standard lines for their attractions. Sensory-friendly restrooms are one-person restrooms that have manual flush toilets and manual paper towel dispensers. The zoo also has free resources like a sensory map and social stories, all of which are available on-site or online. CINCINNATI THERAPEUTIC RIDING AND HORSEMANSHIP 1342 U.S. Highway 50, Milford 513-831-7050 ctrhohio.org Cincinnati Therapeutic Riding and Horsemanship offers programs to teach horseback riding to people with disabilities and unique challenges. MILESTONES, INC. 12372 Riggs Road Independence 859-694-7669 milestonesinc.org Milestones, Inc. offers therapeutic horseback riding to individuals with challenges. NEWPORT AQUARIUM 1 Aquarium Way, Newport 800-406-3474 newportaquarium.com Occasional Family Inclusive Sensory Hours (F.I.S.H) events where, sound, lighting or other modifications are made to accommodate guests with special needs.
WINTON WOODS RIDING CENTER Parky’s Farm 10073 Daly Road, Cincinnati greatparks.org/parks/wintonwoods/winton-woods-ridingcenter In addition to mainstream lessons for beginners through advanced riders, they also offer programming for other-abled riders.
ARTS & THEATER AMC WEST CHESTER 9415 Civic Center Boulevard, West Chester AMC NEWPORT ON THE LEVEE One Levee Way, Suite 4100, Newport AMC DINE-IN ANDERSON TOWNE CENTER 7490 Beechmont Ave., Anderson Twp. AMC CLASSIC HAMILTON 1453 Main St., Hamilton amctheatres.com/programs/ sensory-friendly-films AMC Theaters in Cincinnati offers select sensory-friendly screenings. CINCINNATI ART MUSEUM 953 Eden Park, Cincinnati 513-721-2787 cincinnatiartmuseum.org/ events-programs/accessibility Cincinnati Art Museum offers offer monthly sensory mornings, social narratives online and sensory bags. CINCINNATI BALLET 1801 Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati 513-621-5219 cballet.org The Cincinnati Ballet always offers a sensory-friendly performance. CINCINNATI MUSEUM CENTER 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati 513-287-7000 cincymuseum.org/accessibility Cincinnati Museum Center offers accessible amenities, quiet zones and fidgets/ear muffs available on request. THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI 4015 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati 513-569-8080 thechildrenstheatre.com The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati has sensory-friendly and ASL performances of their shows.
ATHLETICS
PEDIATRIC THERAPY
ALL ABILITIES SPORTS NKY allabilitiesnky.com A new non-profit that offers families “try it days” so children have an opportunity to try new sports. Contact Samantha@allabilitiesnky. com or Jon@allabilitiesnky.com for more information.
ABC PEDIATRIC THERAPY (numerous locations) abcpediatrictherapy.com A pediatric practice that specializes in ADHD, autism, Down Syndrome, Sensory Integration Dysfunction and more.
SNAPDRAGONS snapdragonscincy.org Special needs athletes can participate in a basketball league, cheer squad, softball league or soccer. WE ROCK THE SPECTRUM GYM 4060 Galbraith Road, Unit #17, Cincinnati 513-429-5905 werockthespectrumcincinnati. com Caters to children with fine motor and sensory-related disabilities.
CAMPS CAMP ABILITY – CINCINNATI CENTER FOR AUTISM 100 Office Park Drive, Fairfield 513-874-6789 cincinnaticenterforautism.org Cincinnati Center for Autism hosts Camp Ability, half and full-day camps for people with special needs. STEPPING STONES 5650 Given Road, Cincinnati 513-831-4660 steppingstonesohio.org An organization that offers programs, including summer day camp and its “Step-Up Autism Alternative Education,” for individuals with disabilities.
ENTERTAINMENT CHUCK E. CHEESE • 4394 Eastgate Square Drive, #900, Cincinnati • 1429 East Kemper Road Sharonville • 7635 Mall Road, Florence chuckecheese.com/sensorysensitive-sundays Participating locations open two hours early on the first Sunday of the month to offer a sensoryfriendly experience. KINGS ISLAND 6300 Kings Island Drive, Mason 800-288-0808 visitkingsisland.com/accessibility Offers various programs to accommodate disabilities.
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
BIG BLUE CANOPY 11230 Cornell Park Drive Blue Ash 513-880-6800 bigbluecanopy.com A multidisciplinary pediatric therapy practice offering physical, occupational and speech therapy services in a play-based setting. KTL THERAPY 18 North Fort Thomas Ave., #302 Fort Thomas, KY 859-441-0139 ktltherapy.com Offers occupational, physical and speech therapy.
SELECT PARKS 1000 HANDS PLAYGROUND 5915 Ridge Ave., Cincinnati pleasantridge.org/parks-and-rec BEECH ACRES PARK 6910 Salem Road, Cincinnati 513-474-0003 CRESCENT PARK 340 Crescent Ave., Wyoming wyomingohio.gov/208/ParksPlaygroundsFields EVERY CHILD’S PLAYGROUND 801 East Pete Rose Way Cincinnati cincinnati-oh.gov Caters to physically disabled children and children with cognitive disabilities. MAKINO PLAYGROUND 6100 Kopfler Court, Mason imaginemason.org The Common Ground Playground was designed with local parents of children with disabilities. MT. AIRY FOREST 5083 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati cincinnati-oh.gov The park features a wheelchairaccessible public treehouse.
Find additional inclusive parks and spectator sport access online at cincinnatifamilymagazine.com.
Charles Infosino is a freelance journalist and father. He lives in Cincinnati.
november 2023 11
ABA Therapy Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy NEW LOCATIONS in Loveland & Milford! 10 Convenient locations throughout Dayton and Cincinnati
Maria D Photography
Contact us today! 513-755-6600
abcpediatrictherapy.com
mariadallenphoto@gmail.com
513.320.5225
Check out this PBS KIDS podcast
From the Pro Football Hall of Fame to the Five Rivers MetroParks to the Cincinnati Museum Center, our virtual field trips explore some amazing places throughout the Buckeye State.
THE ULTIMATE RIDE THROUGH HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE FEATURING ARTIST INSTALLATIONS AND LIGHT PROJECTIONS SET IN OUR 2 MILE ART AND NATURE FILLED ROUTE
Happy Holidays
NOVEMBER 17 – DECEMBER 31, 2023 TUESDAY TO THURSDAY: 6PM – 9PM FRIDAY TO SUNDAY: 6PM – 10PM CLOSED ON MONDAYS
PYRAMIDHILL.ORG/SIGNATUREEVENTS
12 november 2023
pbskids.org/jammingonthejob/podcast Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
A SPECIAL ADVERTISING DIRECTORY
The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati
YMCA of Greater 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.
The Y’s Youth Sports help kids learn new skills, make new friends, develop essential character traits, and set individual and team goals.
513-569-8080 | thechildrenstheatre.com 4015 Redbank Road, Cincinnati
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
Small Group Swim Lessons: 6 mos. - 12 yrs.; Nov. 12 - Dec. 23; registration open through Nov. 9. Winter Basketball League: 3 - 12 yrs.; Jan. 8 Mar. 2; registration open through Nov. 30. myy.org/programs/swimming myy.org/youth-sports
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 offered in our area, including those listed here.
Dino Buddies
Girl Scouts of Western Ohio
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!
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.
513-460-2737 | facebook.com/dinobuddiesllc
Mason Dance Center
Star Glazers
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.
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.
513-398-0353 | masondance.com 600-B Reading Road, Mason
513-474-6364 | starglazers.com
gswo.org
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
Look for more activities and programs in the directories on our website at cincinnatifamilymagazine.com/directories.
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november 2023 13
GIVE A GIFT BOX FILLED TO THE BRIM WITH
Instead of toys that are soon tossed aside, give a gift that lasts a lifetime! Register your loved one for your choice of classes and receive a gift box that includes: • Certificate for 1 Month of Classes • $40 Membership Voucher • $20 Merchandise Certificate • WCA Goodies • Candy Canes & Holiday Candy
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Expires Dec. 9, 2023. May not be combined with other offers. Valid for new students or current students adding a class.
513.829.2345 WestChesterAcademy.com
WE ARE BRINGING OUT HUNDREDS OF NEW AND GENTLY USED TOYS! ALL UP TO 70% LESS THAN RETAIL PRICES!
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8107 Market Place Drive, West Chester
Fall 2023 Edition is Coming November 2023! OKLS O B OO G I B SCH OF
This all-digital guide is packed full of valuable information about schools and enrichment opportunities in our area. Spring 2023 edition is online now. SPRING 2023
BIG BOOK OF SCHOOLS Brought to You By:
g min n co 23. o i t i 0 ed ber 2 2023 m Fall y Nove earl
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com/BBoS 14 november 2023
SHOULD YOU CHOOSE A FAITH-BASED SCHOOL?
Scan to read the edition on your phone or go to our website to view in your browser.
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
YES, LEARNING STYLES DO MATTER! MANAGING SCHOOL TRANSITIONS
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BEYOND THE CLASSROOM:
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ENRICHMENT MATTERS TO YOUR CHILD’S PROFILE february 2021 3
by Amanda Ciani
NOVEMBER
THINGS TO DO
HOLIDAY LIGHTS | BRICK FEST LIVE | DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE | A CHRISTMAS CAROL & MORE!
16 The Dailies Events in day-by-day order.
DISNEY’S ALADDIN The show — filled with lots of razzle dazzle and familiar tunes from Alan Menken, Howard Ashman and Tim Rice — boasts an Ohio actor in the wildly witty role of Genie. Hailed by USA Today as “pure Genie-Us,” this show is for all ages of theater-goers and plays the Aronoff Center’s Procter & Gamble Hall November 14 - 19. Showtimes are Nov. 14, 15 and 16 at 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 17 and 18 at 8 p.m.; Nov. 18 at 2 p.m. and Nov. 19 at 1 p.m. Tickets start at $35 (plus a ticket fee of $13.45 per ticket) and are available at cincinnatiarts.org. The Aronoff Center is located at 650 Walnut Street in Cincinnati.
Discover
THINGS TO DO
on your cell phone! Scan the QR Code!
MAGIC CARPET RIDE: Akron, Ohio native, Marcus M. Martin, stars as Genie in Disney’s Aladdin, playing at the Aronoff Center November 14 - 19. cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
november 2023 15
DAILY EVENTS
wed 1
CELEBRATING SELF: ALL ABOUT THE WEATHER (register) WLWT Channel 5 morning meteorologist Randi Rico shares the science of predicting the weather. Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 South Monument Ave., Hamilton; 11:30 a.m.; $21 Fitton Center members, $27 non-members; 513-863-8873 or fittoncenter. org.
PHOTO CREDIT: MARK DUMONT
POKEMON CLUB Bring cards or borrow some from the J to work on skills at Pokémon Club. Dinner provided. Mayerson JCC, 8485 Ridge Road, Cincinnati; 5:30 - 7 p.m.; $13 public, $10 J Member; 513761-7500 or myj.mayersonjcc. org.
SPORTING FASHION: OUTDOOR GIRLS 1800 to 1960 Explore the evolution of women’s sporting and leisure attire. Taft Museum, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati; Wed. - Mon. in November, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; included with general admission: $12 adults, $10 seniors, members LIGHT IT UP! PNC Festival of Lights is at Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden starting Nov. 17. free and FREE on Sundays the same family); 513-867-5835 or ages 3 and younger and members; George Balanchine’s masterpiece and Mondays; 513-241-0343 or 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org. yourmetroparks.net. inspired by jewelry. Music Hall: taftmuseum.org. Spring Auditorium, 1241 Elm THE NEST 513 St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; tickets Littles (ages 0 - 24 months) can starting at $29; 513-621-2787 or enjoy 30 minutes of sensory cincinnatiarts.org/events/detail/ CINCINNATI CYCLONE: fun, led by educators. Nurture, cincy-ballet-jewels. FREE BOOKERY STORY TIME SHUTOUT THE HATE NIGHT 3443 Edwards Road, Suite C Join Ms. Becca for a story. Cheer for hockey with $5 2nd Floor, Cincinnati; 10 - 10:25 LAYERS OF DISCOVERY The Bookery, 3704 Eastern craft draft/seltzer, $1 popcorn, a.m.; $12; 513-257-0955 or (register) Ave., Cincinnati; 10:30 a.m.; $3 cheeseburger and special welcometonurture.com. An adult night out with cocktails, bookerycincy.com. jerseys. Heritage Bank Center, experiments, a silent disco and 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; THURSDAY ART PLAY: more benefitting the Champion DISCOVERY ON THE FARM: 6:30 p.m.; $23 day-of ($21 CONSTRUCT AND CREATE More Curiosity campaign, to bring CORNUCOPIA advanced), $35 front row day-of Learn about the artists from new exhibits to the museum. Explore what was grown at ($33 advanced); 513-421-4111 or the Contemporary Arts Center Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Chrisholm through activities, heritagebankcenter.com. (CAC) exhibit, A Rehearsal on Western Ave., Cincinnati; 7 p.m.; crafts, games and with animals, $225 general admission; 513-287too. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Legacy and create artwork. Stick around for kid-friendly yoga. CAC, FITTON FAMILY FRIDAYS – 7000 or cincymuseum.org/layers. Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; $5 PIRATE SCHOOL (register) Road, Trenton; 10 - 11 a.m.; $5 Professor Billy Bones gives per non-member child, free for PRESCHOOL STORY TIME AT fee per family; 513-867-5835 or members and families with a valid zany lessons and families can HAPPY HANGOUT yourmetroparks.net. SNAP or EBT card; 513-345-8400 swashbuckle along with this Little ones can hear a story, show. Fitton Center for Creative or contemporaryartscenter.org. dance and have fun with friends. EARS ARE FOR READING Arts, 101 South Monument Happy Hangout Westside, 2041 (register) Ave., Hamilton; 7:30 p.m.; $7 TURTLE TALES Anderson Ferry Road, Cincinnati; Little ones can read to a farm for Fitton Center members, $9 Join a naturalist to meet indoor 11 a.m.; included with playpass; animal; bring a book or choose native Eastern box turtles, Bert & non-members; 513-863-8873 or 513-458-1470 or happyhangoutws. one from the little library. fittoncenter.org. Ernie. Cincinnati Nature Center, com. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Road, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 11 a.m.; $10 adults and $6 children, JEWELS Trenton; 10 - 11 a.m.; $5 for up to two readers (same time, from includes daily admission; free for Cincinnati Ballet performs
thu 2
16 november 2023
fri 3
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
THE PROM A show about Broadway stars, a small town and the love that unites them all. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m., additional showtimes available; $27, $24 students & seniors; 513-621-2787 or cincinnatiarts.org.
sat 4 BRICK FEST LIVE Life-size models, hands-on attractions, shopping and more. Duke Energy Convention Center, 525 Elm St., Cincinnati; Nov. 4 entry starts at 9 a.m.; Nov. 5 entry starts at 10 a.m.; $19.99 general admission, $37.99 VIP ticket; 513-419-7300 or brickfestlive.com. CELEBRATING BILLY JOEL A tribute celebrating the piano man’s energy and passion. Taft Theatre, 317 E. 5th St., Cincinnati; 8 p.m.; tickets starting at $32.50; 513-232-6220 or tafttheatre.org. FREE ENTERTRAINMENT JUNCTION WINTER CRAFT SHOW Check out a large variety of vendor booths for holiday gifts. EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Court, West Chester; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 513-898-8000 or entertrainmentjunction.com. FREE FAMILY STORY TIME AND GALLERY WALK Little ones can visit the CAM’s galleries to explore and make art and hear a story. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 11 a.m. 12 p.m.; 513-721-2787 or cincinnatiartmuseum.org. MADCAP PUPPETS PRESENTS “DOWN ON THE FUNNY FARM” The puppets perform Chicken Little and The Three Billy Goats Gruff. Clifton Cultural Arts Center at E.T. Carson Lodge, 218 Ludlow Ave., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; $10 general admission, free for ages 1 and younger; 513-497-2860 or cliftonculturalarts.org. RESIDENT RAPTORS Join Cincy Nature Center staff for a mini-program on their raptors. Cincinnati Nature Center, Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 3:30
p.m.; $10 adults and $6 children, includes daily admission; free for ages 3 and younger and members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.
sun 5 CINCINNATI BENGALS HOME GAME Vs. Buffalo Bills. Paycor Stadium, 1 Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati; 8:20 p.m.; see website for ticket details; 513-621-8383 or bengals. com/tickets. SUNDAY STROLL (register) Join a naturalist to learn about wildflowers. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 11 a.m.; $11 non-members, included daily admission, $5 members; 513831-1711 or cincynature.org.
mon 6 FREE COSPLAY CAMP Learn how to make a cosplay or LARP costume using provided supplies. Westwood Branch, 3345 Epworth Ave., Cincinnati, Oh; 2 - 3 p.m.; 513-369-4474 or chpl.org.
tue 7 FREE ART + TALES A preschool program featuring story time and crafting. The Upside Brew, 329 Ludlow Ave., Cincinnati; 9:30 - 10 a.m.; $5 suggested donation; 513-4972860 or cliftonculturalarts.org. FREE ART PLAY HIKE (register) Children ages 2 - 7 get moving outside with a naturalist. Stick around for hands-on art and yoga. Mt. Airy Treehouse, 1212 Trail Ridge Road, Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org.
thu 9 GREATER CINCINNATI HOLIDAY MARKET Local vendors sell home decor, clothing, unique wares and more. Nov. 9: 12 - 7 p.m., Nov. 10: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m., Nov 11: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m., Nov. 12: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Duke Energy Convention Center, 525 Elm St., Cincinnati; $12 general admission online tickets ($14 day-of); VIP and Early Bird passes available, free for
ages 12 and younger; 888-248-8751 or cincinnatiholidaymarket.com. THURSDAY ART PLAY: SET THE STAGE Discover the art of Tai Shani and create artwork inspired by their works. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E 6th St., Cincinnati; 10:30 11:30 a.m.; $5 per non-member child, free for members and families with a valid SNAP or EBT card; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org.
fri 10 EMERALDS: Cincinnati Ballet takes on CONEY ISLAND’S Jewels, the full-length masterwork of NIGHTS OF LIGHTS George Balanchine, Nov. 3 - 5. Drive through the region’s largest advanced), $35 front row ($33 synchronized holiday advanced); 513-421-4111 or light spectacular. Coney Island, heritagebankcenter.com. 6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati; 6 - 10 p.m.; $30 Fri. - Sun., $25 FREE GREAT PARKS Mon. - Thu. (one-to-eight person COMMUNITY DAYS vehicles); coneyislandpark.com. Explore Great Parks for free to celebrate Veteran’s Day, no DISNEY’S LION KING JR. vehicle permit required. Great Follow Simba’s journey during Parks, Cincinnati; 9 a.m.; 513this musical performed by 521-7275 or greatparks.org. the Royal Theatre Company at Mason High School, 6100 HOLIDAY WHOPLA ICE RINK Mason Montgomery Road, Mason; Nov. 10: 7 p.m.; Nov. 11: Skate with family! Holiday Whopla Ice Rink, 39 North Broad 2 and 7 p.m.; Nov. 12: 2 p.m.; St., Middletown; 12 p.m., see $15 general admission, $25 VIP website for additional times; reserved seats; 513-398-0116 or $10 admission, group discount royaltheatrecompany.com. available; holidaywhopla.org. HOLIDAY JUNCTION HOLLY JOLLY DAYS AT BCM Enjoy this family holiday Vintage Christmas vignettes tradition! Cincinnati Museum and 250 feet of train tracks Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; through Jan. 8, 2024, showcasing whimsical displays. The Winter Wonderland in Thu. - Mon., 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; NaturePlay is open evenings $10 general admission, free featuring lights and a 20-foot-tall for members; 513-287-7000 or snowman! Behringer-Crawford cincymuseum.org. Museum, 1600 Montague Road, Covington, KY 41011; Tue. - Sat.: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun.: 1 - 5 p.m.; Closed Thanksgiving; $9 adults, $8 seniors 60 +, $5 children, CINCINNATI CYCLONES free for members and ages 3 MILITARY APPRECIATION and younger; 859-491-4003 or NIGHT Join the Cyclones as they honor bcmuseum.org. military service members. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; (please turn the page) 7:30 p.m.; $23 tickets ($21
sat 11
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
november 2023 17
DAILY EVENTS JAZZ & CABARET: CANARY IN COMBAT BOOTS (register) Celebrate Veterans Day with U.S. Army vet Alexis Cole sharing stories and WWII-era Jazz Standards. Discount tickets service members. Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 101 South Monument Ave., Hamilton; 7:30 p.m.; $35 Fitton Center members, $43 non-members; 513-863-8873 or fittoncenter.org.
sun 12
CINCINNATI CYCLONE’S FIELD TRIP DAY The Cyclones welcomes CINCINNATI BENGALS HOME students for lessons built around GAME hockey. Heritage Bank Center, Vs. Houston Texans. Paycor 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; Stadium, 1 Paycor Stadium, 10:30 a.m.; $23 day-of ($21 Cincinnati; 1 p.m.; see website advanced), $35 front row day-of for ticket details; 513-621-8383 or ($33 advanced); 513-421-4111 or bengals.com. heritagebankcenter.com. SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine dances the fairy tale. Taft Theatre, 317 E. 5th St., Cincinnati; 6 p.m.; tickets starting at $55; 513-232-6220 or tafttheatre.org.
NURSE BLAKE Parents night out idea: Nurse Blake shares comedic twists about working as a nurse in healthcare. Taft Theatre, 317 E. 5th St., Cincinnati; 8 p.m.; tickets starting at $69.50; 513-232-6220 FREE LIL’ SPROUTS or tafttheatre.org. A bi-weekly drop-in series for learners of all levels to learn SENSORY SENSITIVITY HOURS about plants. Civic Garden @ NEWPORT AQUARIUM Center, 2715 Reading Road, Experience small crowds, no Cincinnati; 9 - 10:30 a.m.; 513music, limited microphone use 221-0981 or civicgardencenter. and reduced lighting effects. A org. sensory level guide on touch, sight and sound will be provided and there will even be special animal encounters. Newport Aquarium, 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, Ky; 8 - 10 a.m.; $27.99 FREE ART + TALES A preschool program featuring adults ages 13 - 64, $19.99 for story time and crafting. The ages 2 - 12; 800-406-3474 or Upside Brew, 329 Ludlow Ave., newportaquarium.com. Cincinnati; 9:30 - 10 a.m.; $5 suggested donation; 513-4972860 or cliftonculturalarts.org.
mon 13
tue 14
DISNEY’S ALADDIN (See Things to Do Opener on page 15.) RESIDENT RAPTORS A program about raptors. Cincinnati Nature Center, Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 11 a.m.; $10 adults and $6 children, includes daily admission; free for ages 3 and younger and members; 513-8311711 or cincynature.org.
wed 15
FREE “WHAT PARENTS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT READING DEVELOPMENT” Learn the five critical skills kids need to read successfully. Cincinnati Reading Center, 9402 Towne Square Ave. Ste B., Blue Ash; 11 a.m. 12:30 p.m.; 513-531-7400 or cincinnatireadingcenter.com.
thu 16 BERT KREISCHER: TOPS OFF WORLD TOUR Date idea: laughs courtesy of
stand-up comedian and podcaster Bert Kreischer. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; 7 p.m.; tickets starting at $39.75; 513-421-4111 or heritagebankcenter.com. event/2023/11/bert-kreischer. DISCOVERY ON THE FARM: PILGRIMS AND TURKEY TALK Visit with a pilgrim, pretend to be on the Mayflower, make a pilgrim hat and visit with farm animals. Chrisholm MetroPark, 2070 Woodsdale Road, Trenton; 10 - 11 a.m.; $5 per family; 513-867-5835 or yourmetroparks.net. THURSDAY ART PLAY: CREATIVE COLLAGES Kids can craft collages. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E 6th St., Cincinnati; 10:30 11:30 a.m.; $5 per non-member child, free for members and families with a valid SNAP or EBT card; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org. FREE WEE WONDER ABOUT WILD TURKEYS Littles can learn about turkeys, do turkey-themed activities and make a turkey craft, too. Sharon Woods, 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville; 10 a.m.; vehicle pass required; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org.
fri 17 PNC FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Lights transforms the zoo into a “Wild Wonderland” through Jan. 7, 2024. Closed Thanksgiving. Festival activities begin each night at 4 p.m. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; included with zoo admission; free for members; 513-281-4700 or cincinnatizoo.org. NORTH POLE EXPRESS (register) Ride the train and meet friendly elves and Santa. Kids receive a bell and cookie. Select weekdays at 6 and 8 p.m. Saturday departures at 12, 2, 4, 6 and 8 p.m. Sunday departures at 12, 2, 4 and 6 p.m. LM & M Railroad,16 East South St., Lebanon; $35 coach adult, $30 coach child (2 - 12) and seniors (62+); deluxe seats available; 513-933-8022 or lebanonrr.com.
GRR-IFIC MUSICAL: Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live is at the Taft on Nov. 24. 18 november 2023
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: FALL FESTIVAL (register) Drop off the kids for a themed night of high-energy fun. Kids First Too, 885 State Route 28, Milford; 6 - 9 p.m.; $40 first child, $29 each additional child; 513-831-4333 or kidsfirsttoo. com. PYRAMID HILL LIGHTS Drive through lit artistic installations and sculptures through Dec. 31. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park,1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton; Fri Sun: 6 - 10 p.m., Tue - Thu: 6 - 9 p.m.; $25 per carload for nonmembers, $15 for members; closed Mondays; 513-868-8663 or pyramidhill.org.
sat 18 BYOC YOUTH TECH SUMMIT Ages 8 - 17 can learn about STEM and tech careers in hands-on workshops. Greater Cincinnati Foundation, 720 E. Pete Rose Way, Suit 120, Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 513377-1679 or campbyoc.com. CHRISTMAS AT THE JUNCTION Experience the world’s largest indoor train display and visit the North Pole for an encounter with Santa and Mrs. Claus. EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Court, West Chester; Mon. - Sat.: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun.: 12 - 6 p.m.; 513-898-8000 or entertrainmentjunction.com. FREE FAIRFIELD PARADE OF LIGHTS Lights, holiday shopping, performances, a penguin meetand-greet and more. City of Fairfield, 301 Wessel Drive, Fairfield; 5 - 7 p.m.; 513-8675348 or fairfield-city.org. FAMILIES CREATE! SCULPTURE TO GO Artist, Mark Wiesner, shows his sculptural forms and teaches how to make a fantastical pizza box creation. Weston Art Gallery, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 10 a.m.; $5 per child; cincinnatiarts. org or 513-977-4165. FAMILY WORKSHOP: PAPER PUPPET CREATURES (register) Construct puppet creatures and watch them fly! CCAC @ Short Vine, 2728 Short Vine, Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.;
BAH HUMBUG!: Cincinnati Playhouse presents an all-new A Christmas Carol, Nov. 24 - Dec. 30. $40 per family; 512-497-2860 or cliftonculturalarts.org. FREE STAR STORIES Investigate an inflatable planetarium to see stars and hear constellation stories. Woodland Mound/ Seasongood Nature Center, 203 Woodland Mount Drive, Cincinnati; 11 a.m.; vehicle permit required; 513-4740580 or greatparks.org. VISION LOSS HOURS @ NEWPORT AQUARIUM Guests with vision loss can visit the Aquarium in brighter lighting. Newport Aquarium, 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY; 8 - 10 a.m.; $27.99 adults ages 13 - 64, $19.99 for ages 2 - 12; 800-4063474 or newportaquarium.com.
sun 19 FREE SKATE DOWNTOWN CINCY Skate the outdoor rink at Sawyer Point, weather permitting. Riverfront Outdoor Rink, 925 Riverside Road, Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; skatedowntowncincinnati.com.
tue 21 RECREATIONS OUTLET CHARITABLE PLAY Kid can play with 50 percent of the proceeds going to a nonprofit. Recreations Outlet, 885 Oh 28, Milford; 9 - 11 a.m.; $4
per child; recreationsoutlet.com.
fri 24
CINCINNATI CYCLONES: THANKSGIVING EVE Adults can get $2 beers and help build a “beeramid.” Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; $23 day-of ($21 advanced), $35 front row day-of ($33 advanced); 513-421-4111 or heritagebankcenter.com.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL The holiday favorite with allnew sets, costumes, lighting and a new Scrooge! Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, 952 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati; Discount preview performances today and Nov. 25 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 26 at 2 p.m.; opening night is Nov. 30, at 7 p.m.; tickets starting at $33.50; 513-345-2242 or cincyplay.com.
LAND OF ILLUSION CHRISTMAS GLOW Drive through 3.5 million lights and shop in the Christmas Village, visit Santa and a petting zoo. Land of Illusion, 8762 Thomas Road, Middletown; 6 - 10 p.m.; see website for additional event times and pricing details; 513-423-9960 or landofillusion.com/glow.
DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE Little tigers will love this grrific musical where Daniel and friends discover what it takes to be “King for a Day”! Taft Theatre, 317 E. 5th St., Cincinnati; 2 p.m.; tickets starting at $32.50; 513-232-6220 or tafttheatre.org.
wed 22
thu 23 Happy Thanksgiving! FREE LIGHT UP MIDDLETOWN Drive through holiday lights. Admission donations will benefit Middletown City Parks. Smith Park, 500 Tytus Ave., Middletown; 6 - 10 p.m.; cash donation admission; you set the price; lightupmiddletown.org.
cincinnatifamilymagazine.com
DECK THE Y’ALLS LIGHTFEST Featuring 2 million lights, a ferris wheel, carnival games, an on-field ice rink, light show, fireworks Fridays and more. Thomas More Stadium, 7950 Freedom Way, Florence, KY; 5:30 - 9 p.m.; Sun. - Thu.: $13 adults, $9 kids 12 and younger, $10 military/senior; 5:30 - 10 p.m.; Fri. and Sat.: $16 adults, $12 kids 12 and younger, $13 military/senior. Skate rentals are extra; 859-594-4487 or decktheyalls.com. (please turn the page) november 2023 19
FREE GREAT PARKS COMMUNITY DAYS Explore the Great Parks, for free (no vehicle permit required). Great Parks, Cincinnati; 9 a.m.; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org. HOLIDAYS ON THE FARM Walk a holiday light loop, ride through lighted woods, see the train displaly, meet animals, characters and Santa, do crafts and more! Parky’s Farm, 10073 Daly Road, Cincinnati; this weekend and dates in Dec.; 5 - 9 p.m.; $15 at the door, $12 advance online tickets, free for ages 18 months and younger; 513-521-7275 or greatparks.org. KIDS EAT FREE CINCINNATI CYCLONES GAME The Cyclones meet the Nailers. Kids ages 2 - 12 years can get a voucher for a free meal. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati; 1:30 p.m.; $23 day-of ($21 advanced); $35 front row day-of ($33 advanced); 513-421-4111 or cycloneshockey.com. KINGS ISLAND WINTERFEST Ice skating, 5 million lights, rides, entertainment and holiday characters. Kings Island, 6300 Kings Island Drive, Mason; Nov. 24: 5 - 10 p.m., Nov. 25
and 26: 4 - 10 p.m.; online jr/ sr tickets $19.99, online regular tickets $29.99; 513-754-5700 or visitkingsisland.com. FREE METAMORA CHRISTMAS WALK Decorations, live music, shopping and Santa! Metamora Canal Town, 19060 South Main St., Metamora, IN; 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; 866-647-6555 or facebook. com/MetamoraChristmasWalk. FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA Visit with Santa to share holiday wish lists and get a photo. Primo Italian Steakhouse, 6 S. Broad St., Middletown; 5 - 8 p.m., see website for more photo times; holidaywhopla.org. SCUBA SANTA AT NEWPORT AQUARIUM Santa dives with sharks and other animals daily! Newport Aquarium, 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY; through Dec. 24: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; included with general admission, free for members; 1-800-406-3474 or newportaquarium.com. YULETIDE VILLAGE Shop, enjoy treats, hear carolers and get a photo with Woodland Santa or Krampus. Renaissance Park, 10542 East State Route
73, Waynesville; 5 - 9 p.m.; $15 for ages 13 and older; free for ages 12 and younger; 513-8977000 or yuletidevillage.com.
sat 25 FREE JULIE WHITNEY BOOK READING A local author will read from her children’s picture book, Astra The Lonely Airplane and sign copies. The Bookery, 3704 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati; 10:30 a.m.; 513-818-8088 or bookerycincy.com. SEX N’ THE CITY: A (SUPER UNAUTHORIZED) MUSICAL PARODY Join the girls on a trip through New York in the 90s. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; 8 p.m.; tickets starting at $52; 513-621-2787 or cincinnatiarts.org. SIGN CRAFTING SATURDAY (register) Kids can learn about sign making. American Sign Museum, 1330 Monmouth Ave., C; 1 - 3 p.m.; included with admission; 513-541-6366 or americansignmuseum.org.
sun 26 CINCINNATI BENGALS Vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers. Paycor Stadium, 1 Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati; 1 p.m.; 513621-8383 or bengals.com.
wed 29 19TH CENTURY HOLIDAY GUIDED TOUR (register) Tour the village hourly from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Nov. 29 - Dec. 2 and Dec. 6 - 8. Heritage Village, 11500 Lebanon Road, Cincinnati; $10 per person. $8 per museum member. Children ages 4 and younger are free; 513-563-9484 or heritagevillagecincinnati.org. MUSIC IN THE MUSEUM Hear the 1929 Grand E.M. Skinner Symphonic Concert Organ! Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; starts at $30 general admission; 513-2877000 or supportcmc.org.
thu 30 K-LOVE’S CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS TOUR Holiday classics. Taft Theatre, 317 E. 5th St., Cincinnati; 7 p.m.; 513232-6220 or tafttheatre. org. LEARN, GROW, EAT AND GO! (register) Garden fun during a Junior Master Garden program. Glenwood Garden Discovery Center, 10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati; 9:45 a.m.; $9 per student, $6 per adult + vehicle permit for entry; greatparks.org.
JINGLE ALL THE WAY: Holidays on the Farm happens Nov. 24 - Dec. 31 on select dates and for the first time ever, includes curling as one of the activities visitors can enjoy. 20 november 2023
Your #1 Hometown Family Resource
THURSDAY ART PLAY: LET’S EXPERIMENT Little ones get to paints Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E 6th St., Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; $5 per non-member child, free for members; contemporaryartscenter. org.
Welcome to
Children’s Medical Center
THANK YOU for voting us BEST PEDIATRICIAN again in 2023!
We have been serving our community for over 70 years. Come see what sets us apart.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
Children’s Medical Center
Rebecca A. Dandoy, MD
James M. Komer, MD
Kenton A. Pate, MD
Diana E. Small, MD
Jennifer Thornicroft, FNP
Memory Basile, PA
331 N. Breiel Blvd., Middletown, OH
(513) 424-1856
www.childrenscmc.com
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