Cincinnatti Parent // 01.2011 by Midwest Parenting Publications

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CINCY on a

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Kids Eat Free (Or Cheap)

January 2011 * CINCINNATIPARENT.com

January 10

encouraging arts & after-school enrichment

embracing virtual schooling

mommy makeovers

* Commentary & Parenting

PUBLISHER’s NOTE: Ring in the New Year by Giving

DEAR TEACHER: Multitasking, Disinterest in Letters and Numbers and Making Reading Fun

mommy magic: Rediscovering You in 2011

parenting 101: What’s Your Parenting Style?

* NEWS & SHOPPING

EVENTS & NEWS YOU CAN USE: News You Want—Now!

* Around Town

cincinnati on a budget: Kids Eat Free (Or Cheap)

arts & enrichment: Fun on Wheels (and Blades)

profile: Cincinnati Playhouse

* HEALTH & WELLNESS

pediatric health: Knowing Your Child’s Skin

pediatric health: Grown Ups Need Immunizations, Too

* RESOURCES

arts & enrichment directory

childcare & education directory

open house directory

calendar

classifieds

Ask the Staff: What is your favorite board game to play with your family on a cold winter's night? $$Monopoly$$!

Any trivia games... I’m a nerd!

Scrabble, but my youngest is 3, so we are limited to Candy Land for now.

K at i e Pfier

Apples to Apples!

SCRABBLE! It’s my all time favorite!

KARA BLU

ROXANN

M We love to play dominoes! Great for all ages!

4 CINCINNATI PARENT * JANUARY 2011

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KAREN RING

co mm e n ta ry & pa r e n ti n g

Publisher & President of Sales & Business Development Mary Wynne Cox publisher@cincinnatiparent.com

Associate Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Lynette Rowland editor@cincinnatiparent.com

Art Direction & DESIGN Heather Lipe

heather@cincinnatiparent.com

director of MARKETING & business development Katie Pfierman katie@cincinnatiparent.com

SALES AND Business Development Jennica Zalewski jennica@cincinnatiparent.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Kara Blum kara@cincinnatiparent.com

ACCOUNTANT Roxanne Burns

roxanne@cincinnatiparent.com

OFFICE MANAGER Karen Ring

karen@cincinnatiparent.com

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY iStock Photography

Publisher’s Note

Ring in the New Year by Giving

Embracing the Spirit of Giving Year-Round

appy New Year Cincinnati Parent Readers! It is always a good time to start the year with a clean slate and set new resolutions and goals for a happy and prosperous 2011. Our annual Mommy Makeover feature on page 30 offers tips on setting healthy goals and getting in shape. Also, if your child is interested in expanding their horizons this year by trying a new class or program, our Arts & Enrichment feature on page 10 provides lots of good information on different offerings in the tri-state area.

knowing you’re making your child’s day with a positive note. Set aside some special time each week to engage in an activity with your family. Do something you wouldn’t normally do like spending time at the library or a museum. Teach your children the value of giving “gifts” to important people in their lives. On a professional note, we have many resolutions at Cincinnati Parent Magazine. Our goal is to have over 5,000 fans on our Facebook page by the end of 2011 with new weekly giveaways and contests exclusively for our fans. We will be offering more events and activities to our Cincinnati Parent magazine readers, as well as our e-newsletter subscribers. We are also excited to announce the launching of our new CincinnatiParent.TV project (more news on that in coming months).

life. You can always give someone a physical gift or note that makes them feel special and loved. The gift of time is probably the most My personal resolutions include the most valuable and appreciated. I plan to set aside typical list (working out more regularly time each week to spend more time with and making healthier choices). I also plan certain people in my life. Going out of your to make some resolutions that are not as way to make sure that you acknowledge a common. I would like to spend more quality kind act or gesture is always a nice little gift. time with important people in my life and I plan to be more aware of thanking all of give a few hours each week to those who are those who do kind things around me. We hope that 2011 brings only the best in need. I am a true believer that when you share your time and resources for the sake of As you plan your resolutions for the coming of health and happiness to our Cincinnati making someone happy, your entire life is year, consider adding in the resolution Parent families. of “gift” giving. Volunteer at your child’s richer and better. school and send notes to your child’s teacher I plan to be more of a “gift” giver in 2011. as they work closely with your child every There are different kinds of gifts you give single day. Pick up a pack of lunch box Publisher and people who are important to you in your notes or make your own—you’ll be happy President

—Mary Cox

Cincinnati Parent 9435 Waterstone Blvd, Suite 140 Cincinnati, OH 45249 513.444.2015 (ph) 513.444.2099 (fx) info@cincinnatiparent.com Copyright: Cincinnati Parent Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2008 by Cincinnati Parent and Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary or services herein. For information on subscriptions, editorial guidelines, advertising rates and more visit www.

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CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 5

N E WS & SH O PPI NG

events & news you can use

Cincinnati Parent Offering

Exclusive Contests to Facebook

Shed Holiday Pounds and Learn to Fly With Aerial Dance by the Cincinnati Circus Company A great way to get in shape and have fun at the same time! The Cincinnati Circus Company is offers Aerial Dance Workout classes. The workshop will contain stretching, aerobic exercise and, of course, circus skills. You’ll experience Aerial Silks, Spanish Web, and Lyra. great way to get in shape with your daughter a friend! The Cincinnati Circus Company also offering Flying Trapeze Lessons, Kid’s Circus Classes! Please visit www. CincinnatiCircus.com for more information.

The Benefits of Team Training Did you know that women who exercise have a significantly reduced chance of getting the flu, and even cancer? It’s also a little known fact that moderate exercise is the cheapest, most foolproof way to prevent aging of the skin. So, this season, just do it! Take 20-30 minutes three days a week to get some moderate exercise. Small Group Personal Training, called “Team Training” by Venus Fitness in Downtown Montgomery is a great way to get started. It’s affordable and personalized for each participant.

Offered at convenient times throughout the week, it’s a fun way to start the new year off right. Elyse Jarard, owner of Venus, is dedicated to your good health. Go to www. venus4her. com for more information and healthy living tips.

If you haven’t yet become a fan of Cincinnati Parent on Facebook, take a minute to “like” us and throughout the month we’ll be running a variety of contests and selecting random winners from our friends list. It pays to be a reader and a fan...so get started! Just go to www.facebook.com and search for Cincinnati Parent then like us—you might just be our next winner!

Take a Build Your Own Telescope Class! Want to know what special secrets may be hiding in the Milky Way or on A Orion’s Belt? Then join Drake Planetarium 2020 Sherman Ave., 4th floor or of Norwood High School, Cincinnati, OH on Wednesday, January 19 is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. when they teach you how to build your own telescope! Each parent-child team will receive a Galileoscope, they show and you how to assemble it, and train you how to use it to observe the night sky. The Galileoscope is yours to keep. Price for a parent-child team is $35 Members, $45 Non-members. Only space for 30 teams so reserve your spot today! Call 513-396-5574 or visit www. drakeplanetarium.org.

All-Mascot Exhibition Broomball Game On Saturday, January 15, 2011, Mr. Redlegs, Gapper, Rosie Red, and a dozen other large-headed characters played an exhibition broomball game on the U.S. Bank Ice Rink at Fountain Square in 2011. UC’s Bearcat, the Cyclones’ Twister, Kentucky Speedway’s Horsepower, the

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Charmin Bear, Hoxworth’s Buddy the Blood Drop, Rumpke’s Binny, U.S. Bank’s Captain Shield, two “Flying” Pigs, and more competed in this one-of-a-kind spectacle on ice! Mascots are available before and after the game for a meet & greet with kids & families on the Fountain Square plaza. For more information visit http://www.myfountainsquare.com/ mascotbroomball

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 7

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AROUN D TOW N

cincinnati on a budget

Kids Eat Free (Or Cheap)

Making Use of Coupons and Deals in Cincinnati The average American family spent more than $2,600 eating out in 2008. That’s according to the National Restaurant Association. The group says 40% of Americans say restaurants make their lives less hectic and help them be more productive, but restaurants can take a big bite out of the budget. So we asked local parents and couponing experts how they save money when they head out to eat.

Debbie Merse is a mom of two in Burlington and loves a good deal. Merse and her family dine out at least once a week. So, Merse turns to restaurant. com. She buys gift certificates there for less than face value, and she says she recently started saving even more by signing up for ebates.com. Merse uses the site to earn rebates on her purchases. Here’s how it works: you go to ebates.com and click on restaurant. com to buy gift cards. You earn a 15% rebate on purchases. You’ll get rebate checks quarterly if you build up at least $5.01 in ebates credits. Merse says it’s like saving twice.

Melissa Huelsman is a single mom and editor of a popular local savings site, cincysavers.com. Users can buy discounted gift certificates and print coupons from nearly 200 local businesses. Huelsman logs on to find free appetizers, breakfast deals and coupons for pizza. One of her cardinal rules is to never pay full price for pizza when there are so many coupons to be had. Huelsman’s not alone in her coupon use. Nationally, consumers redeemed 3.3 billion coupons last year. That’s a 27% increase over 2008 according to Inmar, Inc., a company that processes coupons. Cincinnatians are super savvy coupon users. According to one couponing web site, Cincinnati ranked number three in the nation for coupon use. Coupon clippers here saved an average of $511 a year. Only shoppers in Tampa and Atlanta saved more. That’s no surprise to Dena Garascia and Marci Loehner. The two moms scour the Tri-state for deals. Loehner calls herself Cincinnati’s Coupon Addict and has turned her addiction into a career with the web site cincinnaticoupons.net. It features coupons,

to find coupons. It retails for $35 and is So the next time you’re headed out to filled with “Buy One Get One Half Off” eat, clip a coupon and save a bundle coupons and other deals. There are strings so you can enjoy Cincinnati on a attached to some of the deals like certain budget. exclusion dates, but the book pays for itself Amy Seng Holtzman is a after a few meals. Keep the book and your freelance writer from Villa Hills, KY. monthly mailers in the car so you’ll never She can be reached at amyseng@ aol.com. From Tumbleweed in Florence to Willie’s be without those valuable coupons. in Lawrenceburg to Pizza Tower in Loveland, there are great deals to be had Matarese also likes the on kids’ meals and entertainment. You internet for coupon clipping. just have to know where to look. You’ll He says restaurants like Buca Next time you’re dining out, check out the kids eat free (or nearly free) deals at these find Loehner at the Texas Roadhouse in de Beppo offer coupons and restaurants. Call the location nearest you to Milford where her daughter eats for $.99 specials on their main page. find out which night is your night to save. and gets a free balloon animal from a Applebee’s, TGIFriday’s and Applebee’s Max & Erma’s also offer clown. Beef O’Brady’s loyalty programs. Sign up Buffalo Wild Wings WCPO Consumer Reporter John Matarese online and earn free desserts Chili’s is known throughout the Tri-state for and appetizers. Gold Star Chili his daily “Don’t Waste Your Money” Hofbräuhaus Newport segment and is always finding ways to Matarese offers this last little pinch pennies. He recommends flipping tip: share an entrée but order IHOP through the monthly coupon mailers like your own salad, appetizer or Max & Erma Reach and The Super Shopper Magazine dessert. He says this practice Pizza Tower as soon as they arrive. Matarese says they is okay at all but the priciest Skyline Chili are a great place to find coupons for pizza restaurants. Just be sure to leave Toot’s joints, Mexican and Chinese restaurants. a big tip so the server doesn’t Tumbleweed The Entertainment Book is another place hate you for being a cheapskate. Willie’s Lawrenceburg freebies and tips to save money. Among Loehner’s favorite tips: order water to save $1.50 or more person and order carryout to avoid having to pay the added tip, but Loehner says the best advice for families is to dine out during Kids Eat Free Night.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 9

Given recent budget cuts for many schools, the opportunity for children and teens to participate in arts, enrichment and physical education programs as part of their school’s daily programming has dwindled. Because these programs have become low-priority or even nonexistent within school curriculum, a spark of interest in a child can often go unkindled. Given recent budget cuts for many schools, the opportunity for children and teens to Student matinee performances of full length ballets such as “Cinderella” are offered to participate in arts and enrichment programs as part of their school’s daily programming has schools at a discounted price, and one-act features such as “Beatrix Potter Portfolio” dwindled. Because these programs have become low-priority or even non-existent within and “Peter and the Wolf ” often travel to schools as well. school curriculum, a spark of interest in a child can often go unkindled. BTM Director, Nancy Fountain, stresses the importance of exposing children to Many recent studies have conf irmed that children involved in the arts also show improved the arts. “At a time when arts education is being cut from so many school budgets, social growth and the ability to work cooperatively with others. In addition, studies children lose the opportunity to be exposed to art and culture, thus missing out on such as the recent “Learning, Arts and the Brain,” a three-year, multi-university study the many benef its of art and specif ically performing arts,’ she says. “BTM’s lecture conducted by The Dana Foundation, conf irm a link between arts education and cognitive demonstrations f ill this void by introducing the art of dance to students who often have little to no exposure to dance or classical ballet.” development including memory, organization, motivation and attention to detail. A strong arts curriculum is essential to a well-rounded education. Exposure to the arts One of Cincinnati’s preeminent schools of music, the Indian Springs Academy through participation and practice creates lessons in abstract thinking, commitment, and (ISMA) provides a variety of study programs in voice, instrumental skills and music hard work that may not be taught through core academics in a traditional classroom setting. theor y. In addition, ISMA offers the National Music Certif icate Program (NMCP) for students wishing to earn Certif icates of Merit in their music program. The Fortunately for local youth, many organizations offer affordable classes and workshops in program provides students the opportunity to participate in the certif icate program arts and enrichment to supplement regular classroom curriculum. Whether your child is offered by the world renowned Royal Conservatory of Music Examinations (RCME) interested in dance, ceramics, science or Shakespeare, there’s something for everyone in of Canada. Students may earn these celebrated certif icates in 10 graded levels in the Cincinnati area. both performance and/or theor y through course work and periodic examination. Local examinations are conducted by professional examiners from the College of Ballet Theatre Midwest (BTM), in their seventh year of operation, continues their Examiners sent annually by RCM Examinations. Students must pass both their mission “to enrich the community through excellence in educational partnerships, practical examinations and any theor y co-requisites to earn their certif icates at classical dance training and professional level performances.” BTM offers both training each level. and performing opportunities. The training program serves students age f ive through adult. Year round classes and summer workshops are offered. Performances include ISMA Director, Sheila Vail, played a prominent role in bringing the NMCP to the 30-60 minute lecture demonstrations onsite at schools, wherein students not only Ohio area. As a college student at conservatory, Sheila noticed that her Canadian peers view excerpts from performances but have the opportunity to learn ballet movement. were far more advanced and were performing at a graduate levels as freshman. That’s 10 CINCINNATI PARENT * January 2011

when she learned of the RCM. “I remember thinking, ‘wouldn’t it be wonderful if the program was available to us in the United States?’ And I never gave up on the program.” Sheila now sits as the Ohio State Music Certif icate Chair and serves as liaison between the World Conservatory and Ohio. Indian Springs has been offering the program for 4 years now and its popularity is spreading. “This is literally the hottest program in the country,” says Sheila. More information on NMCP is available on their website at nationalmusiccertif icate.org. Affordable creative fun is offered by Mad Potter, a paint-your-own-pottery studio in Madeira. “Life is very busy,” says owner Amy Stiglitz. “This is a great way to spend that one-on-one time with your child and create brilliant, colorful, masterpieces with ease.” Mad Potter has many items to choose, from plates to picture frames, and most mugs and kids items are priced at $10 or less. “Creativity happens within every child,” says Amy. “And to be able to spend time with them is priceless.” The Mad Potter website calendar offers monthly deals, coupons, and events. Visit www. MadPotterCincinnati.com. The Cincinnati Shakespeare Company offers many opportunities for students to experience, perform and better understand the Bard. According to Director of Education Jeanna Vella, “Shakespeare was never meant to be read quietly to oneself. It was meant to be performed. Experiencing Shakespeare from an actor’s point of view helps to convey his meaning.” Classes are offered for students in grades 7 through 12. The 10-week program includes acting, text analysis, and instruction in voice and movement. Two-Hour Traff ic is the Touring Company for CSC and is comprised of six professional actors that travel to area schools. Currently touring are “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “Hamlet.” Shakespearience brings one to three Cincinnati Shakespeare Company professional actors into the classroom to perform and discuss scenes from any Shakespeare play. Programs can be tailored to the lesson plans of each individual class. Summer camps will also be offered for middle school and high school students in three sessions: June 6-10; June 1317; June 20-24. Detailed information on all programs is available at cincyshakes.com. Piano Lessons in Your Home, Inc. specializes in instructing lessons in piano guitar, and voice to students of all ages. Students learn on their own instruments within the comfort of their own homes. In addition, Piano Lessons in Your Home offers an extensive lending library allowing access to a variety of music and materials. Information and online registration is available at pianolessonsinyourhome.com. Ann Flynn of Star Glazers teaches pottery classes at schools and recreation centers all around town. Students create pieces from clay and learn several painting techniques as well. Classes are available for kindergarten students on up. Contact Ann@ StarGlazers. com to schedule classes. Mad Science offers a large selection of after-school, preschool, in-class and summer workshops. Created by two teenage brothers in Montreal, Canada in 1985, Mad Science CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 11

Many recent studies have confirmed that children involved in the arts also show improved social growth and the ability to work cooperatively with others. In addition, studies such as the recent "Learning, Arts and the Brain," a three-year, multi-university study conducted by The Dana Foundation, confirm a link between arts education and cognitive development including memory, organization, motivation and attention to detail. Mad Science instructors are all scientists and/or educators who share a passion for science. “That’s the primary driver of our organization,” says Eugene (a.k.a. “Dr. E”). “Everybody who comes to work for us shares a passion for making learning and science fun.” After school enrichment classes are offered where children participate in hands-on activities such as building rockets, periscopes, Mad Science putty and much more. In-class f ield trips are also offered to enhance teachers’ lesson plans. More information is available at MadScience.org/Cincinnati or by calling 513-793-6784.

now has over 200 locations in 20 countries. The idea behind the franchise is that with declining school budgets, science is often neglected. A Washington Post article recently reported that, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, more than 80 percent of high school students in the United States lacked basic scientif ic prof iciency. Mad Science strives to evoke enthusiasm for science and f ill the need for quality science education. “We strive to create a great, positive learning experience with a group,” says Eugene Wulsin, owner of Mad Science Cincinnati. “We want kids to come away thinking science is cool and can really be a lot of fun.”

12 CINCINNATI PARENT * JANUARY 2011

Though so many recent studies agree that the arts and enrichment courses absolutely enhance cognitive abilities and conf idence in children, the main reason for children to participate in these types of activities is to explore new avenues for growth. Far from suggesting over-scheduling your child, the point here is to fan the f lames of creativity and ability in children who don’t always get the opportunity to explore their areas of interest in an average school day.

Rebecca Todd is a freelance writer and author of the book “What’s the Point? -- Looking for Logic in Modern America.”

Arts & Enrichment Guide Dance Ballet Theatre Midwest 3833 Eastern Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45226 Phone: (513)520-2334 Email: ballettheatremidwest@ fuse.net www.ballettheatremidwest.com Grace, beauty creativity, movement! Experience the joy of dance at Ballet Theatre Midwest. Our nurturing environment, professional faculty and lovely facility offers the f inest in classical dance training for ages 3 adult. Age appropriate training and performance opportunities for all students.

Music Baldwin Music Education Center 3799 Hyde Park Ave/Hyde Park, Cincinnati, OH 45209 Contact: Rachel Kramer Phone: 351-1109 Email: rachelkramer@ baldwinmusiceducenter.c www.baldwinmusiceducenter. com Keyboard-based group music programs for ages 6-months to 4-years. Piano classes ages 5 and up. Specially designed curriculum taught by trained, degreed music educators. Family discounts, convenient location. Kindermusik by Cathy Siebert 6131 Campus Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45230 Contact: Cathy Siebert Phone: 513-231-3973 Email: siebertkm@aol.com kindermusikbycs.kindermusik.net

Kindermusik has 4 levels of classes for families with children from birth to 6 yrs. Come for a free class and see what fun we have singing, dancing, playing instruments and more! Miss Amanda’s Music Garden Classes held at Calvary Episcopal Church, 3766 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45220 Contact: Amanda O’Bannon Phone: 513-221-SING (7464) Email: missamanda@fuse.net www.MissAmandasMusic.com Music and Movement classes for families with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Open House Saturday, January 8th. 9:30 am Infant/10:00 & 10:30 am Toddler/11:00 am Preschooler Winter/ Spring sessions starts Tuesday, January 18th. “If I could wave a magic wand, all children would be immersed in musical play from infancy onward!” Piano Lessons In Your Home 513-860-3540 cincinnati@ pianolessonsinyourhome.com www.pianolessonsinyourhome. com Piano, Voice and Guitar Lessons in Your Home -Learn to play piano, guitar or receive voice lessons in the comfort of your home. PLYH offers highly qualif ied teachers, f lexible schedules, optional recitals, and a lending library. Serving students ages 4 to adult from Lebanon, Ohio to Northern Kentucky. West chester academy of music 8374 Princeton Glendale Rd, West Chester, OH 45069 (513)829-2345 www.wcaom.com Quality private lessons in piano, voice, guitar, violin, cello, clarinet, saxophone, f lute, drums, harp, trumpet

and steel drums. Also offers nationally acclaimed Music for Young Children, a group keyboard curriculum for ages 5 and up, and Music Pups, a music and movement class for birth to 4. Call for FREE trial class.

Theatre Cincinnati Playhouse In The Park P.O. Box 6537, Cincinnati, OH 45206-0537 Contact: Mark Lutwak 513-345-2242 Email: mark.lutwak@ www.cincyplay.com EXPRESS YOURSELF! Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park offers acting and drama classes for toddlers, children, teens and adults at multiple locations. Call 513/421.3888 for information and registration or visit www.cincyplay.com.

Other

musical theatre, piano workshops and theatre performance camps. Kennedy Heights Arts Center 6546 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45213 Contact: Ellen MuseLindeman, Director Phone: 513-631-4278 Email: info@kennedyarts.org www.kennedyarts.org Category: Visual Arts - All Media Innovative art programs for youth ages 3-18. Classes promote guideddiscovery, a process which fosters individual creativity through a variety of media from drawing, painting, sculpture and more. Teen classes offer focused exploration in two areas: drawing/painting and photography. Flexible enrollment options. Conveniently located 2 miles from Kenwood Towne Center. YOUR LISTING HERE Contact Katie at Katie@ CincinnatiParent.com

University of Cincinnati CCM Preparatory Department PO Box 210236, Cincinnati, OH 45221 Contact: Amy Dennison Phone: (513)556-2595 Email: amy.dennison@uc.edu www.ccm.uc.edu/prep Category: Dance, Music and Theatre The CCM Preparatory Department offers lessons, classes and performance opportunities in music, theatre and dance for students of all ages and abilities. Ensembles and advanced programs require auditions. Summer opportunities for youth, high school and adults in the arts include instrumental ensembles, high school acting and

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 13

H E A LT H & W E LLN E SS

pediatric health

Knowing Your Child’s Skin

Common (and Uncommon) Childhood Skin Conditions “I don’t remember having it, and my parents didn’t say anything,” Tiffany says, so she had no idea what was happening to her baby. “When I had it, they didn’t know what it was.”

Another fever-related condition is Roseola, a viral infection caused by the human herpes virus types 6 and 7 and very common in children 6-months- to 2-years-old. A high fever is followed by a pinkish-red rash on the abdomen.

With Tamara, they were able to prescreen for EB, Hives is also often a reaction to a viral infection, or possibly and Tiffany had a C-section. new medications, and usually goes away on its own. Warts, on the other hand, are caused by HPV. They are not inherently Tiffany plans to organize a walk or similar event harmful, and can be taken care of at home with a salicylic acid this year to help raise awareness about EB. Both formula like Compound W, or at a doctor’s office with liquid girls were also involved in a study last year at nitrogen. Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago to develop a topical treatment to help reduce EB’s Dr. Haggstrom says that joint pain or swelling can also effects. accompany a rash, and is cause for a visit to the doctor. Dr. Anita Haggstrom is the director of pediatric dermatology at Indiana University, and one of the girls’ doctors. “They’re complicated, so they see a lot of people,” Dr. Haggstrom says.

Thankfully, many conditions are fairly benign – cradle cap, which causes scaliness and redness on the scalp, is common in infants, generally not itchy or uncomfortable and is gone by age 6 months to 1 year.

Fortunately, EB is rare – but there are plenty of “It’s the same thing that causes adults to have dandruff,” Dr. more common, and less severe, skin conditions that Brogan says, recommending an olive oil massage, followed by afflict children. shampooing. Five-year-old MaKayla Jordan can’t wait to start kindergarten next year. Her mother, Tiffany, is a bit more apprehensive. In addition to the usual parental concerns, “Acne’s the number-one reason I see kids in the office,” said Heat rash, which manifests as small red or pink pimples, is just MaKayla has epidermolysis bullosa, a skin condition that dermatologist Beth Brogan, adding that it can start as young as 8, what it sounds like – a baby is too warmly dressed, or too close to heat source. Removing the extra clothing or the heat source causes blisters to form on her body. Because it is inherited, but peaks in the teen years. should quickly resolve the problem. her baby sister Tamara also has the condition. “Dermatitis” refers to any inflammation of the skin from contact “I actually grew out of it when I was two, but every case dermatitis – an allergy-like reaction to things like poison ivy/sumac/ Besides bacterial and viral, a skin condition can also be fungal is different,” Tiffany says – her daughters could have EB oak – to atopic dermatitis, a form of eczema that Dr. Brogan says (and treated with anti-fungals), like ringworm – an itchy red affects about one in ten kids, causing red, itchy dry patches. patch that turns into a ring with raised, blistery or scaly edges. their entire lives. It can be passed between humans and animals from skin-to-skin There is no treatment or cure for the girls. Tiffany relies on “These are kids that just have sensitive skin to certain environmental contact, or by sharing things like sports equipment and towels. needles to drain the blisters, antibiotics and other topical factors,” she says. “About 90 percent of kids grow out of their atopic “It’s caused by the same fungus that causes athletes foot,” Dr. creams to try to prevent infections when the blisters burst, dermatitis.” Brogan says. and both girls are on prescription painkillers – Oxycontin While many skin conditions are not harmful or go away on their for MaKayla, Tylenol with codeine for Tamara. own, Dr. Brogan says certain factors are cause for concern – if there It’s also important to maintain booster shots for things “They’re in constant pain all the time,” she says, and she are blisters, or a fever accompanies the rash. Scarlet fever, for example, like chicken pox, Dr. Brogan warns, so that situations like September’s outbreak among Zionsville High School students worries about the possibilities of addiction and the girls is strep throat combined with a fine red sandpaper-textured rash. don’t happen again. eventually needing stronger drugs because their bodies have “The last time I saw it was in my own son,” Dr. Brogan says. gotten used to their current painkillers. When MaKayla was born, she had no skin on her hands or As anyone who’s read “Little Women” knows, used to be fatal. feet – blisters there had burst from the force of being pushed Fortunately, antibiotics can now cure scarlet fever, but if ignored, it can lead to serious complications. through the birth canal.

14 CINCINNATI PARENT * January 2011

Allison Tyra is a graduate of Indiana University’s School of Journalism. An Indianapolis native, she spends most of her time freelancing for various Midwest-based publications, watching too much Glee/Grey’s Anatomy and giving into her cats’ demands for attention.

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16 CINCINNATI PARENT * JANUARY 2011

Embracing Virtual Schooling Virtual Classrooms A re Changing Education Landscape

for

Ohio Families

The popularity of virtual education for students K-12 has grown in recent years. The misconception that virtual education is reserved for certain populations is being exposed as parents take their children’s education by the reigns.

Virtual education caters to personal schedules. Everyone from those in military families to parents who understand their child’s learning style f its the virtual education model— virtual education is available for nearly everyone.

Tillie has been e-schooling for six years and, as J.D.’s learning coach, she has seen him acquire a love of learning. He is able to work at his pace and master new material in a comfortable setting.

What is the virtual education model? Full-time virtual charter schools allow students to complete school work from home by completing state-approved curriculum on-line and traditional methods including science projects, text book work and f ield trips. Blended programs are conducted at home and at a central location for group study. Both models include ample socialization, computers, teaching materials and certif ied teachers to support students and parents along the way.

“Socially, J.D. has made friends throughout the state because of Ohio Connections Academy (OCA) and we make it a point to have our schoolwork done by the time his friends in the neighborhood are home from their school,” said Elvrum. “We can log into the school from anywhere that has Internet access. He’s logged into his LiveLesson while we’ve been on vacation in Washington State, Colorado and Pennsylvania. E-schooling has opened doors for J.D. that he never would’ve experienced in a traditional setting.”

Ohio Connections Academy

OCA provides a personalized education by using high-quality curriculum. OCA delivers a personalized public education through which students’ lessons are tailored to their abilities and interests that they can work through at their own pace.

For Tillie Elvrum, parent and learning coach for her son J.D., an 8th grader with Ohio Connections Academy (OCA), said it was a no-brainer that they would continue virtual school when they moved to Ohio after having success at Connections Academy in Pennsylvania. “We decided to e-school for many reasons, but the biggest factor was that we felt his traditional brick-and-mortar school wasn’t meeting his needs academically. J.D. has a learning disability that affects his memory and he just needs more time to master new material.”

Students and learning coaches play an important role in enhancing the curriculum by providing feedback through Connections Academy’s star rating system following each lesson. CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 17

Virtual education caters to personal schedules. Everyone from those in military families to parents who understand their child’s learning style fits the virtual education model—virtual education is available for nearly everyone.

Ohio Connection Academy was designated “excellent” on the 2009-2011 report cards from the Ohio Department of Education for achieving a value-added measure of “above expected growth” for the second consecutive year. In addition to exceeding the value-added measure, OCA’s performance index score continues to increase. The performance index score measures the achievement of every student on tested subjects in grades 4-8 in reading and math subjects. Visit connectionsacademy.com for more information.

“Students at VCS are not bound by the clock or a physical classroom, so they have the f lexibility to blossom as individuals,” Berkheimer said. “Some of our students need to work at their own pace. Some students want to attend school from home for physical or philosophical reasons. Some students excel in sports or the arts, and they need a f lexible schedule to train and travel. Some of our older students have responsibilities such as a job or a family of their own, and they cannot stay on a traditional school schedule.” As for a day-in-the-life of a VCS student, “Our students don’t have a standard “typical” day. Since we offer so much f lexibility, students can go to school when it’s convenient for them. Our families really value that,” Berkheimer said.

Virtual Community School of Ohio Lori Berkheimer of Virtual Community School of Ohio (VCS) said after experiencing years of growth and success, they’ve expanded the talented and gifted program to grades 4 through 12. “We’ve incorporated SMART Board technology [writing boards that transmit information written by teachers and students online] so our teachers can make their classrooms more interactive and engaging. We also offer a lot more face-to-face opportunities, including regular tutoring at the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery in Dayton.” The mission of VCS is to make a difference in the life of a student, so parent feedback is critical to making that happen. VCS encourages parents to offer their opinions through a variety of surveys throughout the year.

18 CINCINNATI PARENT * JANUARY 2011

Ohio Virtual Academy Ohio Virtual Academy is located in Maumee, Ohio with resources provided by K12, the largest provider of online school programs in the United States. K12 has partnered with Ohio school districts and charter schools, some state-wide or just within school districts. “We are most known for online public schooling for kindergarten through 12th grade offering full-time education with core and elective courses. Families get certif ied teacher support and college preparatory classes,” said Jeff Kwitowski, vice president of public relations with K12.

Like other virtual learning programs, K12 offers extensive parent and learning coach support, a computer for their students and the highest quality learning materials available. For each family, virtual education takes a different shape, meeting different needs and together accomplishing amazing goals. Samantha, parent and learning coach of her K12 student said, “I try to set a realistic schedule, with an end to the day and def inite breaks. So at lunch, we put everything away, clean up and eat together. Sometimes we talk about what the boys have left in their schedules and strategize on some things they are struggling with. Before we sit back down to work, we all know what the rest of the afternoon looks like.”

Adult Distance Learning

While working with their learning coach, it is expected that students will spend no more than 20 to 25 percent of that time on the computer especially in the early grades. Older students may spend more time online in certain subjects, but the majority of their time working with a learning coach. In learning centers, a computer is the primary tool for the teacher to facilitate lessons with the whole class or small groups. Another K12 parent and learning coach, Teresa, shared that over the years her family has learned that their school schedule needs to be compatible with who they are as a family. “At one point, I had all these grandiose ideas about how we were all going to get up really early and all abide by a schedule to a tee. The stress in our lives was ridiculous trying to accomplish this. I realized that for our family, it wasn’t practical. So we never started before 9 a.m. and we no longer have schedules, we have goals and we keep learning fun and simple.” More and more traditional school systems are partnering with K12 to provide options they cannot offer, such as AP® and world languages, because of teacher cutbacks and overcrowded classrooms. Indiana, Florida, Ohio, Michigan—these are the states Shelly Brantly and her family have moved into and out of over a four-year period. “You can move at anytime in the military,” notes Shelly, whose husband is an Air Force dentist. “Continuity in a child’s education is extremely important—we’re lucky to have K12.” Nikki Keever is a freelance writer living in Noblesville, IN with her husband, three children and two dogs. She can be reached at jnkeever2@gmail.com.

There are several options for adults looking to sharpen their skills, stay-at-home parents wanting to keep teaching licenses current to parents looking to make a career change or to get back into the work force. With distance learning at local colleges, like Union Institute and University, adults can fit college courses into their schedule without ruffling too many feathers. “Our degrees include bachelors, masters and PhD programs. We are a liberal arts school offering learning opportunities for those with busy schedules,” said Nicole Hamilton, public relations manager with Union Institute and University. “We are founded on a mission to work around student’s lives allowing them to learn after work and on weekends with their customized curriculum. Parents with small children at home appreciate that they can pick up where they left off, if a degree hasn’t been finished or career goals left unmet after deciding starting a family.” Online learning offers a fundamental benefit in flexibility that is highly appealing to often busy adult learners. It is important to note that within the freedoms afforded by the online environment, at minimum, the same discipline and attention to details is required as with any traditional program.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 19

Childcare & Education Directory Child Care/Preschool Chai Tots Early Childhood Center

7587 Central Parke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040 (513)234-0600 www.chaitots.com Grades: 6 weeks - 6 years Enrollment: 40

Academic excellence via unique blend of Montessori method and traditional Jewish education. Chai Tots teaches children the culture and traditions of Judaism, while developing their creativity skills and promoting independence. Flexible schedule. Before and Aftercare.

www.TheCompassSchool.com Ages 6 weeks-6 years plus after school & summer camp up to age 12. Offering outstanding ReggioInspired full and part-time Infant, Toddler, Two’s, and Preschool programs, as well as Kindergarten, After School, and Summer Camp for schoolage children. Degreed teachers, extensive parent communication, and welcoming family environment. Setting the standard in early care and education. Call today for your personal tour.

the gardner school of blue ash 9920 Carver Road, Cincinnati, OH 45242 513-985-9444 www.TheGardnerSchool.com Ages 6 weeks - Pre-K

This award-winning, academically focused preschool has recently opened in the Blue Ash Community. You want the best for your child, and so do we. With our nationally-recognized Childtime curriculum taught by our degreed teaching Multiple Locations faculty, we are committed to providing a www.childtime.com nurturing environment for learning readiness Empower your child. Whatever path your child takes in life, a good where your child can prepare for academic starting place is essential. At Childtime®, we achievement and lifelong success. encourage kids to explore, express themselves and learn through their own curiosity. Start your child’s journey towards a lifetime love of learning at Childtime. For information, call 877-624-2602 or visit www.childtime.com.

The Compass School 9370 Waterstone Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45249 Contact: Laura Carr Phone: 513-683-8833 Email: CompassLC@yahoo.com

20 CINCINNATI PARENT * JANUARY 2011

Good Shepherd Nursery School 7701 Kenwood Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45236 Contact: Leigh Anne Prugh, Director 513-891-1733 Email: LAPrugh@GoodShepherd.com www.gsns.info Grades: 3-5 yrs. Enrollment: 114 At Good Shepherd Nursery School, our goal is to help 3, 4, and 5 year olds make

an easy transition from the security of home life to the unfamiliar world of elementary school. Preschool learning and social devlopment take place in an atmosphere of sharing and understanding.

Kinder Garden School Blue Ash - 10969 Reed Hartman Highway, Blue Ash, OH 45242 Contact: Tami Lanham Phone: 513-791-4300 Email: tami@kindergardenschool.com West Chester - 5900 West Chester Road, Ste. C, West Chester, OHIO 45069. Contact: Trudi Simpson Phone: 513-874-3100 Email: trudi@kindergardenschool.com www.kindergardenschool.com Grades: 6 weeks through kindergarten Enrollment: Please call or email.

Together with interaction of child, staff and family, we develop the complete child. In our Kinder Garden, we provide formative encouragement and knowledge with hands-on staff taking a personal interest in family and holistic education decisions for the child. Kinder Garden School is devoted to growing a child’s wish to flourish and learn by cultivating curiosity and problem-solving proficiency in a full supportive, fertile, fun setting. ENLIGHTENMENT IS OUR MISSION. Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Nursery School 5950 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45213

(513)631-0170 www.prpc.org Grades: 2 1/2 - 5 years, Parent/ Child classes birth to 32 months Enrollment: 65

Professionally qualified teachers provide active, expressive, child-centered learning experiences at this 3-star award-winning program. Choose 2, 3, 4, or 5 day AM or PM sessions. Excellent ratios, degreed teachers and spacious, sunny, classrooms await your preschooler. Parent and child classes also available for babies and toddlers.

Montessori

Central Montessori Academy 1904 Springdale Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231 Laura Saylor 513-742-5800 laura@centralmontessoriacademy.com www.centralmontessoriacademy.com Infancy through Sixth Grade Enrollment: 110

Community Montessori School 9035 Cincinnati Dayton Rd, West Chester, OH 45069 Contact: Jamie Minniear 513-777-0808 Email: communitymontessori1@gmail.com www.CMontessori.com Grades: Preschool/Kindergarten, Ages 3-6 Community Montessori School is a quality Montessori preschool and kindergarten that respects children and provides an environment that is supportive for children to learn not only important academic skills, but also social skills and selfmotivation. Children grow and learn at their own pace with gentle guidance from a teacher.

Montessori Academy of Cincinnati 8293 Duke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040 (513)398-7773 www.montacademy.org Grades: 3 years – 8th grade Enrollment: 300

Now in our 23rd year offering Montessori curriculum with an individualized nurturing approach. Experienced, degreed teachers foster a love of learning, promote independence and At C.M.A., children (infants through sixth- develop the necessary skills for success. New 7.5graders) learn at their pace, building self- acre campus! State Chartered. AMS Affiliated. esteem while being taught as individuals. Extended Care available on-site. Our program is academically rigorous while stressing life skills (i.e. critical-thinking & Montessori Center Room courteous behavior). The result: motivated 2505 Riverside Ct., Cincinnati, OH 45202 & self-disciplined lifelong-learners who are Phone: 513-321-3282 Email: mcr1966@fuse.net students of life just as much as they are of montessoricenterroom.com academics.

Category: Montessori Grades: 3 - 6 years old Enrollment: 50 A child-focused, AMS-Affiliated, 40-year-old program for children ages 3-6 years. Before and after care available, Musikgarten is offered weekly.

The New School Montessori 3 Burton Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229 (513)281-7999 www.thenewschool.cc Grades: 3 year-olds through 6th Grade Enrollment: 150

and aftercare, and holiday care available. The Child’s Place 4936 Old Irwin Simpson Rd, Mason, OH 45040 (513)398-6928 www.montacademy.org Grades: 6 weeks through 4 years Enrollment: 150 Montessori Early Childhood Program! Exceptionally low ratios in a nurturing environment! Our 2-acre campus provides bike and cart paths. Separate play areas for toddlers and preschoolers. Spanish and Music classes offered! Full-time and Part-time available. AMS Affiliate

Founded on Montessori principles in 1970, our wooded playgrounds, home-cooked meals and family-like setting in North Avondale’s Mitchell Mansion provide a stimulating and nurturing environment for learning. We value diversity Bethany School and create a caring and supportive community. 555 Albion Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45246 Our graduates excel academically, but more Phone: (513)771-7462 importantly are empowered as citizens of our www.bethanyschool.org global community. (Accredited by AMS and Grades: K – 8th grade ISACS). Upcoming Open House Dates: Sunday, Enrollment: 250 January 30 (2-4PM) Bethany School is an independent preparatory school where students experience an Summit Country Day School appreciation for many cultures. Laptop 2161 Grandin Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208 computers, on-line grading, a dynamic music (513)871-4700 program, rigorous curriculum, and a variety www.summitcds.org of extracurricular programs provide a truly Montessori extraordinary educational environment.

Non-Public

Age 2 - Grade 12 Enrollment: 1100

The state-of-the-art Lower School is home to the Montessori Program where children ages 2 to 6 receive a world-class academic and enrichment curriculum. Multiple programs include a new Montessori Toddler Program for 2 yr. olds and full and half-day programs for ages 3-6. Before-

Cincinnati Country Day School 6905 Given Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45243 Phone: (513)979-0220 www.countryday.net Grades: Early Childhood (18 months); 12th grade Enrollment: 800

CCDS is an independent, co-educational school dedicated to educational excellence serving St. Ursula Villa 3660 Vineyard Place, Cincinnati, OH 45226 students 18 months through Grade 12. The (513)871-7218 School is nationally recognized for its innovative, www.stursulavilla.org integrated laptop computer program. Extended Preschool – 8th grade ay and tuition assistance is available. Enrollment: 496

Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy 11525 Snider Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249 Contact: Kim Siman (513)247-0900 Email: kim.siman@chca-oh.org www.chca-oh.org Grades: K-12 Enrollment: 1400

Academic excellence in the Ursuline tradition for boys and girls in preschool through 8th grade. Whole-child development, family atmosphere, dedicated faculty, Montessori or Traditional preschool options, small class size, individual attention, outstanding high school preparation. Summit Country Day School 2161 Grandin Road

For 40 years, Springer School and Center has empowered students with learning disabilities to become strategic learners, helping them to achieve success. Springer offers a day school for students ages 6-13 and outreach programs and learning disability resources for students, parents and teachers in the Greater Cincinnati area. The Springer Experience. Success Changes Everything.

CHCA’s vision is to unleash each student’s God (513)871-4700 given gifts through Christ-centered academic www.summitcds.org excellence. We are devoted to developing the Grades: Age 2 - Grade 12 whole person, and instilling a life-long passion Enrollment: 1100 Ohio Virtual Academy for learning, leading, and serving. Founded in 1890, the area’s only independent, Best performing eSchool in Ohio Catholic, co-ed, college-prep school serving (866)339-9072 Covington Latin School students age 2 - Grade 12 is recognized as a www.ohva.org 21 E. 11th Street, Covington, KY 41011 leader in formalized Character Education, Credo. Grades: Kindergarten Contact: Carl Goodmonson, – 10th grade A diverse community of students benefit from a Director of Admissions Enrollment: 3,300 rich, classical and challenging curriculum within Phone: 859.291.7044 three contiguous divisions. Extensive athletic and Ohio Virtual Academy helps your K-10 Fax: 859.291.1939 visual arts programs campus-wide. children obtain an excellent public Email: admissions@covingtonlatin.org school education, tuition free! Under http://www.covingtonlatin.org the guidance of licensed teachers, Category: Academically Gifted parents help their children learn at Grades: 8-12 home using K12’s comprehensive Enrollment: 235 curriculum and educational materials. Springer School and Center Covington Latin School is a classical, co-

Virtual/Distance

Special Needs

educational, Catholic, accelerated, college preparatory high school. The School’s commitment to acceleration allows advanced fifth, sixth and seventh grade students the opportunity to begin a more challenging and rewarding secondary educational experience.

2121 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208 Phone: (513)871-6080 Website: http://www.springer-ld.org Grades: 1st - 8th grade Enrollment: 200

YOUR LISTING HERE! Contact Katie at Katie@CincinnatiParent.com

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 21

Co mm e n ta ry & Pa r e n ti n g

dear teacher

Multitasking, Disinterest in Letters and Numbers and Making Reading Fun Your Questions of Teachers—Answered!

Do Homework and Multitasking Work Well Together?

lasting. They would do better to study for 20 to 30 minutes and then take an electronic break. Question: We're having a battle at our home. I This is especially true if they are working with tell the children that they'd be able to do homework difficult material that they wish to remember for and prepare for tests better and faster if they stopped a long time. text messaging their friends at the same time. They tell me that they are good at multitasking and can There does seem to be one exception to easily do more than one thing at a time. Are they multitasking pitfalls. Listening to background right? - Against Multitasking music while studying may actually improve concentration by masking distracting noises. Answer: People can walk and chew gum at the same time. And they can talk on a cell phone and sort Preschooler Is Disinterested clothes. But there are limitations to multitasking in Letters and Numbers when tasks are more demanding, because you Question: My preschooler has absolutely no aren't really doing two tasks simultaneously but interest in doing any kind of schoolwork. She switching rapidly from one to the other. doesn’t seem to be learning anything at school. I try to teach her letters and numbers, but she Researchers have used brain imaging to see what soon forgets them. Otherwise, she is doing well is happening when young people multitask. Their in school and is well-liked by the teacher and her studies have shown that the ability to do more than classmates. Do you think that she has a learning just mindless tasks at the same time is a myth. Your disability? I’m afraid that she may have problems children cannot focus on their schoolwork and text next year in kindergarten? – No Letters or Numbers message at the same time. Their brains shift between these tasks. And the more difficult the tasks are, the Answer: Young children change so fast. What longer it takes to readjust between them. they can’t or don’t want to do today, they may easily do in a month or two. We are not saying While children can learn while multitasking, that you shouldn’t be exposing your child to their learning is far less efficient and less long-

22 CINCINNATI PARENT * JANUARY 2011

letters and numbers now. However, keep in mind that she’ll be introduced to them formally in kindergarten. Instead of worrying about teaching her letters and numbers now, do things that are fun and will prepare her to learn to read and handle numbers. Work now on increasing her natural desire to learn. Plan diverse activities that will let her learn what the world is like. Forcing your child to work with letters and numbers now could turn her off learning them before she even gets to kindergarten. Instead, read to your daughter every day and teach her rhymes. It is also a good idea to read signs to her when you see them. And call her attention to words in story books so she begins to get the idea that print has meaning. As far as math goes, the first steps to learning this subject are the sorting, ordering, matching, and counting of objects.

Onomatopoeia Makes Learning to Read Fun Question: In talking about children learning to

read, don't forget the joys of onomatopoeia – words that imitate the sounds they are describing. My 6-yearold son loves comic books, and he always has the job of reading "woof," "zap" and "pow." Actually, I think his fascination with these words marked a significant increase in his reading skills. - Making Reading Fun Answer: Children love to use onomatopoeia. These words are simply fun to say, as they are so descriptive. There's the vroom of car engines, the beep or honk of cars, the clang of a trolley car, and the tick tock of clocks. Many animal sounds are examples of onomatopoeia. The words "meow," "quack," "chirp," "oink," "neigh," "ribbet" and "roar" truly sound like the sounds those animals make. What's great about all these words – plus additional ones like "boom," "zoom," "buzz," "bang" and "click" – is that children can shout them out or say them with a lot of expression. Turn your kids loose to read these words once they become familiar with them in frequently read comics or books.

Your child is actually learning a lot in preschool. She has learned how to get along with the teacher and her classmates, and she is learning how to behave at school. When she gets to kindergarten, you will find that some children are very skilled with letters and numbers, and others are not. Let Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or ask them on the her set the pace in learning them for now. columnists’ Web site at www.dearteacher.com.

AROUN D TOW N

profile: cincinnati playhouse

Arts Enrichment Through Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park Year-Round Arts Enrichment for All Ages

The arts are essential to the basic education of all students, no matter their age. Live theatre, whether students are observing in an audience or participating actively in their classroom or on a stage, encourages the development of the entire range of “21st Century Skills,” including creativity, innovation, critical thinking, problem solving, communication, collaboration, flexibility, adaptability, initiative, self-direction, productivity, accountability, leadership, responsibility and social and cross-cultural skills.

Acting Classes

Acting classes are perfect for the budding artist of any age and are offered in fall, winter and spring for children from K-12. The classes offer a chance to investigate the basics of acting, improvisation, movement and theatre games, as well as acting for TV and f ilm. A variety of classes are offered to different age groups throughout the year. The requirements for classes vary from instructor to instructor, but the intent of all classes is to introduce the student to the beginning concepts of performance.

Summer Theatre Day Camp In the summer, the Playhouse theatre day camp offers exciting sessions for children entering first through 12th grades. Students entering grades 1 and 2 are offered a two-hour creative dramatics program with a single instructor throughout. Students entering grades 3 and up take two weeks of half-day camps consisting of three classes. These include a class in acting and two other dramaCincinnati Playhouse in the Park offers a range of services to young people and families each related activities (such as improvisation, stage movement, stage combat and television acting). year. Uncover the best-kept secret in Cincinnati and find out more about these programs. All classes are taught by working theatre professionals with extensive experience working with young people. The final day of camp culminates with a demonstration for an audience of family Rosenthal Next Generation Theatre Series and friends. Every Saturday for two months, in the heart of winter, the Playhouse presents the most diverse and enticing lineup of family theatre in the region. Bring your child or grandchild and Off the Hill

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park is proud to partner with more than 15 of the region’s community arts centers to bring plays “Off the Hill” to families throughout the Greater Cincinnati area. Admission is free or inexpensive, and is available at the door. This year families can enjoy Dis/Troy and Lily’s Tickets are $5 for theatergoers ages 4 to 18 and $6 for adults. All shows are recommended for Purple Plastic Purse.

experience together the excitement of nationally-known and award-winning family performers at the Playhouse. Performers include dynamic storytellers, puppeteers and musicians. The series is made possible by the generous support of the Lois and Richard Rosenthal Foundation.

ages 4 and up. To ensure the enjoyment of all in attendance, children younger than 4 must sit on an accompanying adult’s lap throughout the performance.

For more information about these programs, visit the Playhouse’s website at www.cincyplay.com . CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 23

Open House Directory Bethany School 555 Albion Ave., Glendale, OH 45246 Phone: 513-771-7462 www.bethanyschool.org Open House Date: Sunday, February 13, 2011 from 2:00pm-4:00pm

Junior/Senior High Campus: 7474 Morris Road, Fairfield, OH 45011 Phone: (513) 892-8500 www.cincinnatichristian.org Open House Dates: Sunday, January 30th, 2011. Elementary: 1:30-3:30pm, Jr./Sr. High: 2:30-4:30pm.

Cincinnati Country Day School 6905 Given Road, Cincinnati, OH 45243 Phone: (513) 979-0220 Email: admission@countryday.net www.countryday.net Open House Dates: February 16, 2011 and May 11, 2011. Individual appointments are available M-F, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy 11525 Snider Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249 Contact: Kim Siman Phone: 513-247-0900 Email: kimberly.siman@chca-oh.org www.chca-oh.org Open House Date: January 22, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Cincinnati Christian Schools Elementary Campus 7350 Dixie Highway, Fairfield, OH 45014 Phone: (513) 874-8500

24 CINCINNATI PARENT * JANUARY 2011

Community Montessori School Address: 9035 Cincinnati-Dayton Road, West Chester, OH 45069 Phone: 513-777-0808 Email: jminniear@roadrunner.com www.cmontessori.com Open House Date: Sunday 1/23/2011 2:00-4:00 or Call for a Private Tour at your convenience!

- 6:00pm; January 27th 9:00am - 6:00pm Discover The Gardner School, an award winning, academically-focused preschool for ages 6 weeks through private kindergarten. Our unique learning atmosphere incorporates a careful blend of traditional and Montessori styles of learning in our state-of-theart preschool. Please join us during our open house for a personal tour.

Cincinnati Waldorf School Address: 5555 Little Flower Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45239 Phone: 541-0220 x103 www.cincinnatiwaldorfschool.org Open House Dates: February 5, 2011; April 9, 2011 10am-1pm

CPS Magnet School Showcase

The Compass School 9370 Waterstone Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45249 Contact: Laura Carr Phone: 513-683-8833 Email: CompassLC@yahoo.com www.TheCompassSchool.com Open House Date: Sat., February 26, 10:30AM-1:00PM

2561 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45219 Phone: (513) 363-0123 Covington Latin School www.cps-k12.org 21 E. 11th Street, Covington, KY 41011 Open House Dates: Visit www. Phone: 859-291-7044 cps-k12.org/Schools/schools.htm for www.covingtonlatin.org information on schools in your area. Open House Date: Sun., February Cincinnati Public Schools – Ohio’s highest-rated 13th; 1:00 and 3:00pm urban district – offers many innovative programs, at no cost to you, that will help your child succeed. More The Gardner School of Blue Ash rigor, expanded foreign language programs and new 9920 Carver Road, Cincinnati, OH 45242 enrichment opportunities keep learning challenging Phone: 513-985-9444 and fun. Small class sizes help students get the www.TheGardnerSchool.com individualized attention they deserve. Open House Dates: January 24th 9:00 am

The Good Shepherd Catholic Montessori 4460 Berwick Street, Cincinnati, OH 45227 Contact: Susan Fisher Phone: 513-985-9144 www.qams.org Open House Date: January 23, 2011 from 1:00-4:00pm

The Howe School 5755 North State Rd. 9, Howe, IN 46746 Contact: Charles Grady Phone: 888-462-4693 Email: admissions@thehoweschool.org www.thehoweschool.org Open House Date: Sunday, January 9, 2011 Campus Preview Days enable you and your family the opportunity to see our school first hand. The Admissions Office is open Monday through Friday for campus visits, as well. Please RSVP before the Friday prior to each Campus Preview Day at 1-888-GO-2-

HOWE (1-888-462-4693) or email us at admissions@ thehoweschool.org. All Campus Preview Days begin at 10:00 A.M. EST.

Open House Dates: Thursdays in January 6, 13, 20, 27

Liberty Bible Academy John XXIII Catholic School 3806 Manchester Road, Middletown, OH 45042 Contact: Brenda Neu Phone: 513-424-1196 www.john23middletown.org Open House Dates: Thursday, February 3rd with a snow date of Thursday, February 10th.

Kennedy Heights Montessori Center 6120 Ridge Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45213 Phone: (513) 631-8135 kennedyheightsmontessori.org Open House Dates: Wed. Feb. 2, 2011

4900 Old Irwin-Simpson Rd., Mason, OH 45040 Phone: 513-754-1234 www.LBAToday.org Open House Dates: Every Monday: Jan. 3 - Feb. 28 - 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM; Saturday, Jan. 22 - 11:00 AM-2:00 PM

Phone: 513-321-3282 www.montessoricenterroom.com Open House Date: Sunday, Feb 27, 2011 from 1-3PM

The New School Montessori 3 Burton Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229 Phone: (513)281-7999 www.thenewschool.cc Open House Date: Sunday, January 30, 2011 2PM-4PM

PLEASANT RIDGE PRESBYTERIAN NURSERY SCHOOL 5950 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45213 Phone: 513-631-0170 www.prpc.org Open House Date: Sunday, January 23, 2011 at 2pm

Prince of Peace Catholic School 625 Pike Street, Covington, KY 41011 Phone: (859)431-5153

The Little Schoolhouse Preschool 4934 Western Row Road, Mason, OH 45040 Contact: Cheri Lizzio Phone: 513-459-0800 Email: littleschoolhouse@hope-church.org www.hope-church.org Open House Date: Friday, January 21, 2011

Montessori Academy of Cincinnati 8293 Duke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040 Phone: 513-398-7773 www.montacademy.org Open House Date: January 23, 2011 1-3 p.m.

Montessori Center Room 2505 Riverside Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45202

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 25

www.popcov.com Open House Date: Sunday, January 23rd

Rockwern Academy 8401 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45236 Phone: 513-984-3770 www.rockwernacademy.org Every day is Open House at Rockwern. Please call to schedule a personal tour.

The Seven Hills School Main Campus: 5400 Red Bank Rd, 45227 Doherty Campus: 2726 Johnstone Pl, 45206 Contact: Admission Department Phone: 513-271-9027 7hills.org Informational Coffee Dates: Lotspeich – Jan. 11th, 9:00-1100 am Doherty – Jan. 12th, 9:00-11:00 am Upper School – Jan. 21st, 8:30-10:30 am Middle School – Jan. 28th, 8:45-10:45 am

Springer School and Center 2121 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208 Phone: 513-871-6080 Email: info@springer-ld.org www.springer-ld.org Open House Date: Wednesday, February 9, 9:00 am Introduction & Video; 9:30 am Student Led Tours

St. Gabriel Consolidated School 18 W. Sharon Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45246 Phone: 513-771-5220 www.stgabeschool.org

26 CINCINNATI PARENT * January 2011

Open House Date: Wednesday, February 2, 2011 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. New families encouraged to attend 6:30-7:30 p.m.; Current families encouraged to attend 7-8:30 p.m.

St. Ursula Villa 3660 Vineyard Place, Cincinnati, OH 45226 (513)871-7218 www.stursulavilla.org Open House Date: Sunday, January 30, 2011; 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

The Summit Country Day School 2161 Grandin Road, Cincinnati (Hyde Park), OH 45208 Phone: 513-871-4700 http://www.summitcds.org PARENT PREVIEW DAYS: Montessori PreK-K (ages 2-6) Jan 13, 18, & Feb 22 8:30 a.m. RSVP required. Lower School & Middle School (Grades 1-8) Thurs., Feb. 24, 2011, 8:45 a.m. RSVP requested. Founded in 1890, The Summit is the areas only Catholic, independent, college-preparatory school serving 1080 students from age 2-Gr.12. A nationally recognized characterbuilding program, Credo, focuses upon the qualities of respect, responsibility and honesty. Through scholarship, service, creativity, and physical drive, graduates distinguish themselves nationally. Tuition assistance is available to qualifying families from PreK–12; meritbased scholarships are available in Gr. 7-12.

COMM E N TARY & PAR E N T I NG

mommy magic

he a lth & welln ess

women’s health

Rediscovering YOU in 2011

Grown-ups Need Immunizations, Too

Identifying Your Goals for the New Year

What You Don’t Know May Hurt You

Happy New Year! If you are like me, you have taken a deep breathe from creating all the holiday magic and are looking forward to a great 2011. With a New Year comes the opportunity to recreate or even reinvent yourself. I always find it exciting to take note of the past year and make plans for the new one.

time to identify what they are and reinvent yourself in 2011! Whether it be learning how to cook, taking an art class, joining a book club, reading more to your kids (or yourself ), going to church regularly, having a date night, having a girls night, having a family night—whatever it is, identify it and go for it this year!

Several years ago, I had a New Year’s that was especially exciting for my husband and me. I had my first baby 11 years ago on January 5th. I thought she was going to be a New Year’s Eve baby, but back in 2000, we were all so scared of the possibility of Y2K (remember that?) that I prayed for my baby to hold on a few extra days. She held on for a few more days and I marked the new millennium with a new baby and a new me.

The week after New Year’s I always meet my best friend for coffee. It has unknowingly become a tradition for us since having kids. We recap the year together and talk about the highs the lows and what we learned from it all. In years past, we have sat and laughed about the madness of motherhood and some years we have sat and cried from the pain or frustration that came in certain moments over the year. Regardless, we always celebrate it and share how we want to grow in the year to come. By saying it out loud to my trusted friend, I usually feel empowered and excited to evolve and grow in the upcoming year. For instance, last year I mentioned to her that I really want to start cooking healthier for my family. Every so often she would send me a recipe, call me with a tip she saw or heard or even just flat out ask me how my goal for cooking healthier was going. It helped me be more accountable to have her know that this was something I really wanted to do for my family and me. Her interest in my goal only inspired me to stay with it and continue to reinvent myself into a better cook! They say that the best way to be accountable to yourself is to tell others about your goals—you’re more inclined to follow through.

We all know that becoming a mother changes everything. It not only changes your heart (which I proudly wear on my sleeve now), but it changes when you sleep, how you sleep or even if you sleep at all. For me, it changed my shoe size, my hair color and I swear my nose got bigger every time I had a baby. It also made me a more patient person, more tolerant of just about everything and eternally grateful for the gift of life.

In the chaos of motherhood, it’s sometimes hard to take the time to slow down and really think of all the ways that we, as women and moms, have evolved and changed over the years. Eleven years ago I could have never imagined that I could juggle schedules and family chaos while typing an email, signing a permission slip and writing this column at the same time. I have become, do to on-the- Whatever it is that you want to do this year, look at is as an opportunity to not only try job training, an expert multi-tasker. something new, but to grow and maybe Whether I know it or not, a New Year even reinvent yourself in a specific area in somehow always brings a new “me” into the New Year! the light. It happens so gradually that it is Mary Susan Buhner is a Life Coach for hard to notice, but I encourage you to take Moms and author of “Mommy Magic: note of all the ways motherhood has made Tricks for Staying Sane in the Midst of Insanity” Visit www.Mommy-Magic. you evolve and grow this year. If there are com for more information. Become a areas you want to explore, now is the perfect Fan of Mommy Magic on FaceBook!

As parents consider what it means to provide optimal medical care for their children, invariably the subject of childhood immunizations comes up. According to Centers for Disease Control (CDC) data, immunization programs have been very successful in protecting preschool youth against potentially serious childhood diseases. Fewer than 500 children in the United States die each year from a vaccinepreventable illness.

Additional vaccines are recommended for a woman whose environment or weakened immune system increases the risk of exposure to specific viral or bacterial illnesses, like hepatitis or pneumonia. The incidence of pertussis, or whooping cough, is on the rise. It is strongly recommended that parents – and any adult caretaker of children – be vaccinated. Pertussis is a bacterial infection that attacks the respiratory system and causes violent coughing spells that can lead to fractured ribs and even death in the very young. The main transmitters of the disease are infected adults. More than 50 percent of infected infants contract the disease from their parents.

Recent advances have improved immunization rates in adults 65 years and older. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of the younger adult population. Although many women are seen annually at the obstetrician-gynecologist’s office, very few HPV is a virus that ultimately may cause receive immunization counseling. cervical cancer. Sexual contact is the mode The importance of adult immunization of transmission and administering the cannot be understated. As individuals age, it vaccine decreases the risk of cervical cancer has become apparent that a large percentage by up to 80 percent. of adults lose immunity to many diseases. Not only does immunization significantly Flu vaccines are routinely recommended for decrease the risk of illness in the individual, it pregnant women during flu season because also protects susceptible members of the same pregnancy weakens the immune system and household or workplace from the disease. increases the likelihood of serious infection This can be especially important for women from the virus. In most cases, a mother’s flu taking care of children and/or elderly parents. vaccination also will protect the baby for six months. Adults also may need vaccines because they never received them as children or the newer Other vaccine-preventable diseases occur vaccines weren’t available then. Plus, as less commonly but are, nonetheless, very people age, they become more susceptible to important to protect against, especially in the serious diseases like the flu and pneumonia. pregnant patient. The CDC reviews and publishes guidelines for all immunizations annually. Five vaccines are recommended for women between the ages of 18 and 60:

* * * * *

tetanus/diptheria/pertussis (Tdap) human papilloma virus (HPV) varicella (chicken pox) measles/mumps/rubella (MMR)

Overcoming the barriers to appropriate adult immunization is achieved through public education combined with healthy physician/patient relationships, which allows open communication and produces an environment of trust. Be sure to ask your doctor about immunization at your next visit. William R. Buckley is a Group Health Associates obstetrician/ gynecologist.

influenza CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 27

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CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 29

When they become busy moms, women often lose sight of themselves. They are employees, care-givers, taxi drivers, team supporters, coaches, maids, tutors and guidance counselors. They may call themselves ‘super moms,’ but sometimes it’s easy to go on autopilot and begin to feel more like a robot. In the midst of it all, women often put their own health and happiness on the back burner. After a while the super mom persona can start to weigh heavy until one day they look in the mirror and realize that super mom has begun to look more like Robin Williams in Mrs. Doubtfire. The fact of the matter is, however, if you want to master the rest, sometimes you have to look out for number one.

The national report card for women’s health shows that far too many women are failing in the areas of health and wellness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 35% of women age 20 or older in the United States are obese, 33% suffer from hypertension and 14% of women 18 years and over are in fair to poor health. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Obviously, it’s time for busy women to put everything else aside and take action to improve this situation.

Nutrition Matters There is certainly no shortage of diet and nutrition advice. In fact, it seems new data, new fads and new books on the subject crop up daily. In addition, strategic marketing and labeling can also be misleading. For example, low fat may also mean high sugar and sugar free may mean high fat. With so much conflicting information and ambiguous food labels, it’s often difficult to discern the truth. Nutritionists and health care professionals agree, diet fads and expensive programs are not the way to go when one is trying to lose weight. The best bet is to set a goal to eat healthy and the rest will come in time. MyCalorieCounter.com is a free online food journal and calorie counter. Nutrition facts, diet tips and discussion forums are also available. Also included is a food search engine featuring over 45,000 different fast food, brand name and generic foods with information on calories, carbs, proteins, sugars and other nutrients. MyFitnessPal. com is an online social network, of sorts, that allows users to add friends, share their daily exercise and food charts, share weight loss 30 CINCINNATI PARENT * JANUARY 2011

with friends, connects to Facebook for even further social support and is even available on the go on your iphone. Users can easily add food from a database that is user generated and keep track of daily calories and exercise goals. The United States Department of Agriculture has developed a website to aid busy women in gaining a healthy nutritional balance. MyPyramid Tracker is an online nutrition and exercise assessment tool that provides information on diet quality and physical activity status. It works as an online food journal that evaluates and assesses your dietary information and compares the food you ate to the recommended guidelines, and then provides related nutrition guidance and links to nutrient and physical activity information. The tool is available at mypyramidtracker.gov.

Staying Fit According to the CDC, only 32% of women 18 years and over engage in regular leisure-time physical activity. Often one of the last things busy women want to do after spending a hectic day of work and caring for a family is exercise. That’s because, to many, exercise just sounds like more work. The trick, however, is to change your mindset about exercise and inject some fun into your exercise routine. Cincinnati Adventure Fitness Boot Camp is designed for women of all fitness levels, sizes and ages. Adventure Boot Camp is a four week indoor/outdoor fitness program that offers fitness instruction, nutritional counseling and motivational training combined with fun and energizing activities. Each day offers new activities so it

never becomes tedious. Classes can be taken 3 or 5 days per week and each session lasts for 1 hour. Activities include light running, weight training, obstacle courses, core training and jumping rope with additional fun activities thrown in from time to time. Check the website at cincinnatifitnessbootcamp.com for information on class dates and locations. Many websites offer tools and resources for nutrition, fitness and weight loss as well. Myfitnesspal.com provides a food diary, a calorie counter, calorie burn calculator, weight loss ticker as well as mobile apps. Membership is free and customizable. If you want to stay fit, it’s not necessary to spend a fortune on exercise machines or gym memberships. In fact, the most satisfying and beneficial way to exercise is to add extra physical activity to your daily routine. For example, go for a bike ride with your kids, take a walk with a friend or grab your partner and dance around the living room. It’s a double benefit of building on relationships while staying fit.

Get Your Beauty Rest The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults receive 7-9 hours of sleep per night. However, a 2008 national poll reported the average American only receives approximately 6 hours a night. Results of the poll showed that 29% of respondents reported falling asleep or becoming very sleepy at work in the past month, 36% had fallen asleep or nodded off while driving in the past year, and 20% had lost interest in sex because they were too tired.

Not getting enough rest also endangers health and well-being because accidents and injuries are a possibility, in addition to health hazards including an increased risk for obesity and heart attack in women. Though diet an exercise are important pieces of the puzzle, doctors and experts agree that one of the simplest things one can do for their health and as well as appearance is to simply get enough rest.

Perfect Your Beauty Regimen You don’t have to cake on make-up and process your hair keep a youthful appearance. Regular skin and hair care can do wonders to help women look and feel younger, and with so many beauty innovations available today, it is easy for women to look good and feel good. For most of us, a simple regimen of cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing and using protection against the sun is all we need to keep a youthful glow. Some, however, prefer to take extra steps to pamper themselves and alleviate more serious skin issues such as sunspots and wrinkles. Fortunately these procedures can often be done simply and non-invasively at many local centers and spas. Grace Tree Yoga & Growth Studio offers hypnotherapy, reiki, meditation, personal growth work, two styles of yoga therapy, bellydance, and tai chi Qigong with many new classes to be offered in the new year. In addition, Grace Tree is expanding their family schedule, which will include monthly family yoga days, kids’ classes for various age ranges, prenatal and daytime classes with childcare. The full gamut of services and a class listing is located online at gracetreestudio.com. Cincinnati Dermatology Center specializes in adult and pediatric medical dermatology, surgical dermatology, as well as cosmetic dermatology. They offer aesthetic services such as cosmetic peels and facials, fillers and botox and laser skin services. Skin care products are also available. Free consultations and one free treatment with the purchase of four skin care products are also offered. The full brochure of services and prices is online at cincidermcenter.com. If you’ve been neglecting number one for too long, it’s time to throw off that shiny, super mom cape and get back some of that youthful vigor. Instead of super mom, it’s time to play ‘wonder woman’ for a while. In the Cincinnati area, there are unlimited options for moms who need to get back in touch with the woman inside or just spend a little time pampering themselves. Number one on every woman’s list should be to stay healthy; not just for her family, but also for herself.

Rebecca Todd is a freelance writer and author of the book "What's the Point? -- Looking for Logic in Modern America."

Going the extra mile For busy mommies looking to add polish to perfection, there are many local options for additional procedures and programs to regain a youthful appearance. “We see a lot of new and ‘experienced’ mothers at our practice, which focuses on the treatment of leg veins and non-surgical cosmetic treatments,” says Karen Whitney of Anderson Cosmetic and Vein Institute. “There are several reasons moms come in to see us.” Leg veins are a common concern since pregnancy is an aggravating factor in the development of either spider and/or varicose veins. Spider or surface veins are treated with a series of small injections to gradually shut down the vein. Larger varicose veins used to be surgically removed. These veins are now

treated in the office with a laser, offering no down time and minimal discomfort. Body slimming is a much-desired treatment post-partum. Zerona non-invasive body slimming is a treatment option that is the first FDA treatment approved for the reduction of surface body fat. It has been shown to safely and painlessly reduce the circumference of the waist, hips and thighs. Zerona can be repeated and/or combined with a weight loss program for increased results. “We offer a complimentary consultation to determine how we can best meet the needs or our prospective patient,” says Karen. More detailed information is available at anderson-costmetic.com.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 31

COMMe n ta ry & pa r e n ti n g

parenting 101

What's Your Parenting Style?

Understanding the Schools of Thought on Parenting Techniques 3. Helicopter Parenting Also known as Hyperparenting or Overparenting, helicopter parents focus on protecting their kids’ childhoods, as well as help them avoid any challenges they can foresee and prevent. Though helicopter parents (aka hoverers) mean well, this parenting method has been criticized for being fear-based and not giving children opportunities to think for themselves. 4. Slow Parenting In Slow Parenting, emphasis is placed on play and unstructured activities, as well as encourages time for exploration in the natural world—there is even a place for boredom. Carl Honoré, a Slow Parenting advocate, advises against “grownups taking over everything. Slow parenting means allowing our children to work out who they are rather than what we want them to be.”

5. Unconditional Parenting

Parenting advice from the media experts? Check. Guidance from Aunt Helen, your book club friends and co-workers? Check. Tips from your child’s pediatrician? Check. Considering this, plus the more than 100 books on child-rearing published each year, we should all be parenting experts by now, right? Not really. In the realm of parenting, where most parents are fumbling for a proverbial light switch at 2 a.m. for elusive answers to their parenting questions, the fact of the matter is there is a wide variety of parenting styles. Ultimately, there is likely no single parenting philosophy, book, piece of advice or article that can encompass every parent, child, family or situation, which makes the information overload a little more understandable.— we’re all just trying to figure it out. Here are seven different parenting styles which run the gamut. Depending on your beliefs on

32 CINCINNATI PARENT * JANUARY 2011

parenting, there are a variety of methods you can try.

Author of the book Unconditional Parenting, Alfie Kohn believes “children learn how to make good decisions by making decisions, not by following directions.” The idea is not to control children by rewards and punishments, but rather to work with them. Kohn wants to help parents to reconnect with their instincts and question their longheld assumptions about parenting. He states, “It’s not just about discipline, it’s about the ways we think about, feel about, and act with our kids.”

1. Attachment Parenting

6. Authoritative Parenting

Dr. William Sears is credited for coining the term Attachment Parenting (AP). Attachment Parenting consists of an intuitive, high-touch relationship between parents and their children. Sears identifies three goals of AP parenting: to know your child, to help your child feel right and to enjoy parenting. Babywearing and sleep-sharing when children are small are two of the key components of the AP movement.

This is a child-centered, responsive parenting approach that helps children become independent, while also placing limits on their behavior. There is give-andtake between the parent and child, and effort is made to be empathetic and treat the child with respect and dignity.

2. Free Range Parenting This style advises parents to feel free to send their kids out to play—unattended—and, in doing so, is a non-neglectful and positive experience for the child. Free Range Parenting is “a movement dedicated to fighting the other big movement of our time, helicopter parenting,” says Lenore Skenazy, founder and author of Free Range Kids. “Childhood is supposed to be about discovering the world, not being held captive.”

7. Gender Neutral Neuroscientist and author of Pink Brain, Blue Brain, Lise Eliot contends that by focusing on the innate gender differences in males and females we limit our child’s potential. The solution? Provide more balanced opportunities for both genders to participate in what is generally considered “boy” or “girl” play. For example, encourage boys to play with kitchen sets and girls to play with male-marketed Legos. Rebecca Zingarelli, mother of a 15-month-old and an active member at the Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center (www.theplaceforfamilies.com) shared her parenting philosophy with us. “I’ve done a lot of research and read a lot of books about parenting. I’ve learned there’s no right or wrong way to parent. You could go crazy trying to figure out the best style, but when it comes down to how to parent, you

need to do what feels right and follow your gut instincts. I take what I like from each material I read and if it works for us, great, if not I’m not going to stress over what I’m doing ‘wrong.’” Tisha M.Way, Social Worker and Mental Health Therapist at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, promotes parenting with a flexible structure. “Children need and respond well to structure and consistency, which is very different from rigidity. That flexibility allows us to take into account circumstances, personality, and temperament. Often we get caught up in only trying to solve negative behavior, when what kids respond well to is being praised for what they are doing well. Kids spend all day being told what to do, what not to do, how to do it, and when to do it. Praising them for positive behaviors allows them to receive attention for those behaviors, rather than gain attention for negative ones. Doing so helps teach them how to make good choices by creating more opportunities for success. A lot of parents get overwhelmed when they read books and search the internet for parenting resources. You can read 10 books and get 10 different recommendations on parenting styles. The important thing is to find a method that works for you and your family.” Emily Rempe, co-founder of Productive Parenting ( www.productiveparenting.com), shares a similar parenting philosophy. “I believe the parenting style that works the best is the one that fits ‘you!’ Too often, parents try to subscribe to certain tactics in parenting that are not congruent with who they are as a person. For example, if you like to be flexible and spontaneous, trying to stay on a strict schedule will likely be a stressful scenario.” In the grand scheme of parenting, only you know what will work best for your child, but knowing when to ask for help, when to step away, how to keep a comfortable balance and remaining consistent can go a very long way. If you want to learn more about the typical parenting styles, check out the resources listed here for more information or ask your pediatrician for recommendations on parenting support.

Krista Bocko is a freelance writer and lives in Noblesville with her husband and four children. She can be reached at kbocko@ sbcglobal.net or via her blog at www. cachetwrites.com.

Extreme Parenting Styles Permissive: Parents don’t place restrictions on their child's behavior. Children learn to expect things rather than earning them. Authoritarian: The opposite of permissive parenting, this style is rigid and controlling while expecting children to follow rules without question. Babywise: The goal is to get your baby to sleep through the night by twelve weeks. Nursing baby to sleep, rocking baby to sleep and sleepsharing are all no-no’s with this method, which has drawn criticism from the American Academy of Pediatrics and others for its rigidity. Hypnosis: Similar to reverse psychology, this method uses touch, eye contact, nodding and statements instead of questions, which hypnotherapists say makes it possible to hypnotize your child into behaving. Teacup: Like the name suggests, these parents treat their children as if they were fragile teacups, trying to protect them from every bump or disappointment. In some extreme cases, adults have been known to follow their (adult) children to job interviews. Uninvolved: Parents generally don’t display affection, provide discipline or meet the child’s needs, all of which often add up to a sense of inadequacy for the child.

Book Resources & Websites The Baby Book, by William Sears, M.D. & Martha Sears, R.N. www.askdrsears.com In Praise of Slowness and Under Pressure, by Carl Honoré www.carlhonore.com

Free Range Kids: Giving Our Children the Freedom Unconditional Parenting–Moving from

We Had Without Going Nuts with Worry, by

Rewards and Punishment to Love and

Lenore Skenazy www.freerangekids.com

Reason, by Alfie Kohn www.alfiekohn.org Pink Brain, Blue Brain, by Lise Eliot, Ph.D. www.liseeliot.com

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 33

January 2011 SATURDAY 1

typical eating, sleeping, & fussiness issues, as well as sharing insightful tips that will guide you through expected developmental milestones, assisting you in helping your child reach their fullest potential. $35/parenting team. Bethesda North Hospital. 10500 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati OH. http://www.signingsafari. com. (513)475-4500.

TUESDAY 4 Half Pint Kids Club Waffle Sandwiches Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival

Ongoing through Saturday, January 2. Oldest continuing festival of Christmas season. Featuring cast of more than 200 people dressed in 14th century English attire. See website for times. FREE. Christ Church Cathedral. 318 E. Fourth St., Cincinnati OH. www. christchurchcincinnati.org. 513-621-2627.

SUNDAY 2 The Beach on Ice

Last Day to Attend! If you’re looking for real winter fun and real value... come to The Beach On Ice! Take your family for an unforgettable day of ice skating on Ohio’s largest outdoor rink, ride the toboggan slide, pet & feed our critters in the Petting Corral and check out our amazing miniature train display. The Beach On Ice is REAL FAMILY WINTER FUN! Prices Vary. The Beach Waterpark. 2590 Water Park Dr, Mason OH. thebeachwaterpark.com. (513) 398-7946.

Scuba Santa’s Water Wonderland Last Day to see Scuba Santa! Holiday decorations throughout Aquarium, Scuba Santa’s Post Office and Reindeer Roundup game. Scubadiving Santa Claus performs in dive shows with sharks daily. Come check it out!. Included with admission: $22, $15 ages 2-12, free ages 1 and under. Newport Aquarium. Newport on the Levee, Newport KY. http://www. newportaquarium.com. 859-261-7444.

Half Pints age 3-8 are invited with a caregiver to explore and try new foods in a fun environment. Join us in the café for this fun food treat. Today we will create a yummy treat perfect for a quick breakfast or snack! . FREE. Whole Foods. 5805 Deerfield Blvd, Mason OH. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/mason. (513) 398-9358.

Let the library know what tweens want. Join the group and see your ideas come to life . free. Boone County Public Library - Lents Branch. 3215 Cougar Path, Hebron KY. www.bcpl.org. 859-342-2665.

Baby’s Amazing Journey Babies have approximately 200 billion brain cells at birth – twice the number of stars in our galaxy! This eye-opening workshop helps parents navigate the challenging waters of infancy by offering effective strategies for dealing with 34 CINCINNATI PARENT * JANUARY 2011

THURSDAY 6

Game Day Thursdays Teens join us afterschool for a little friendly Wii or other gaming competition! 9-17. Reading Branch. 9001 Reading Rd. http://www. cincinnatilibrary.org. (513)369-4465. www. cincinnatilibrary.org.

Let’s Explore!

SATURDAY 8

E-Cycling Made Easy! RECYCLE your OLD ELECTRONICS! Ecycling recovers valuable materials from old electronics that can be used to make new products. As a result, we reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reduce pollution, save energy and save resources by extracting fewer raw materials from the earth. Please call or visit website for a list of allowable items to drop off include. FREE. Whole Foods. 5805 Deerfield Blvd, Mason OH. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/mason. (513) 398-9358.

Musikgarten Open House

Kings Day Celebration (all ages)

Winter Bingo

Extend the Christmas season with a visit from the Wisemen. Bring the family for pictures, snacks, and a gift. ¡VIENEN LOS REYES MAGOS. free. Boone County Public Library - Florence Branch. 7425 us 42, Florence KY. www.bcpl. org. 859-342-2665.

Join Mrs. G in the wonderful world of wintry fun with Winter Bingo. Everyone’s a winner! 12 and younger. Deer Park Branch. 3970 E. Galbraith Rd, Cincinnati OH. http://www. cincinnatilibrary.org. (513)369-4450.

Circus Experience: Join the Circus for a night

FRIDAY 7

Sprouts in the Kitchen Vanilla Snowballs

Bring your child to join the circus for a night at our Studio in Clifton Ohio. He can learn and see some of the skills that we perform on a daily basis like ballooning and juggling. Please RSVP by phone to 513-921-5454 . Free. Essex Studios. 501 Minnesota Street, Cincinnati Ohio. http://www.amazingportablecircus.com/. 513-921-5454.

A monthly astronomy club for kids 8-14+ years of age and their parents who have a deeper interest in astronomy and are available to attend regular monthly meetings. FREE. Cincinnati Observatory Center. 3489 Observatory Place, Cincinnati OH. www.cincinnatiobservatory. org. (513) 321-5186.

WEDNESDAY 5 Movers & Shakers

Sing, dance, move! Ages 1-4. Norwood Branch. 4325 Montgomery Rd. (513)369-6037. www. cincinnatilibrary.org.

Joy of Art

Come to Paul Brown Stadium and Cheer on the Cincinnati Bengals as they taken on the Ravens! 1:00pm. Prices vary per ticket. Paul Brown Stadium. 1 Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, OH 45202. www.bengals.com. 513-621-TDTD.

Twig (ages 8-12)

Simple vocabulary, stories, songs and crafts. Ages 3-5. Price Hill Branch. 3215 Warsaw Ave. http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org. (513)3694490. www.cincinnatilibrary.org.

Come by our open house to experience music activities for the whole family Learn more about our classes, do a fun music craft, experiment with our instruments and have a small snack. Little Songbird Music Studio uses the Musikgarten curriculum to teach young children music in a natural, holistic way. Children in our classes learn music the same way they learn language, so as they get older, music is a natural part of who they are. Classes are available for children birth - 7 years. FREE. Florence Music Academy. 240 Main St., Florence KY. www.LittleSongbirdMusic. com. 859-547-8765.

Cincinnati Bengals VS Baltimore Ravens

MONDAY 3

Spanish/English Storytime

Discover the fun of exploring science or drama or archeology or art and more! The theme changes each program. Ages 6-12. Main Library. 800 Vine St, Cincinnati OH. http://www. cincinnatilibrary.org. (513)369-6900.

FOTOKids Youth Astronomy Club

Guided Ghost Tours of Cincinnati Music Hall Location: Website: Music Hall is one of Cincinnati’s most iconic buildings, and a National Historic Landmark. It’s also said to be haunted! For those who are fascinated by the history and paranormal potential of this unique venue, special after-hours tours have been scheduled. Hosted by a local group dedicated to investigating, documenting, and researching such claims, these tours will show you a side not often seen by patrons attending performances. $25. 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Cincinnati Music Hall. 1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. www. CincinnatiArts.ORG. (513) 621-ARTS.

Ladies’ Night

Celebrate the joy of art while letting us clean up the mess! Join us for creative, hands-on activities and learn how to encourage and understand your child’s artistic point of view! Elizabeth Hardin who has an M.A. in Art Education, leads this workshop. Sprouts Institute workshops are designed for ages 2 to 6 years. Museum admission is not included in the workshop fee. $5 per child, per session for members; $7 per child per session. Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati OH. www.cincymuseum. org/. (513) 287-7021.

Our Ladies Night is the perfect Girlfriends Getaway! We supply appetizers and you can BYOB! Sorry, no kiddies- this night is just for the ladies. Call 561-1888 to reserve your space, as they are limited. . $4 studio fee. The Mad Potter. 7754 Camargo Rd., Madeira OH. www. mymadpotter.com/Madeira. 513-561-1888.

Monster X Tour Ongoing Through Saturday, January 8. Features racing, freestyle, and vertical wheelie contests. With Bounty Hunter, Gunslinger, Crush Station, Get R Done, Robo Machine, and The Metal Mulisha. $23-28, $5 children. U.S. Bank Arena. 100 Broadway, Cincinnati OH. www. usbankarena.com. 800-745-3000.

Every Saturday, we will take kids age 5-12 on a fun food adventure while teaching them about good nutrition! Join us today as we create a yummy winter treat!. FREE. Whole Foods. 5805 Deerfield Blvd, Mason OH. www. wholefoodsmarket.com/mason. (513) 3989358.

Super Sprouts: Train Printing Celebrate transportation with some art thats on the go! Meet in the Celebration Room. Activity is free with museum admission. Venue: Duke Energy Childrens Museum. Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati OH. http://www.cincymuseum.com. (513)2877000.

Winter Orienteering If you like treasure hunts, maps, and exploring the woods, orienteering is for you Let us introduce you to this outdoor adventure sport. Several map games will be offered, plus a beginner level orienteering course. Instruction and maps are provided. Compasses will be available to use, or bring your own. Warm up inside the building afterward. Call 542-2909 for more information. FREE. LaBoiteaux Woods Nature Preserve. 5400 Lanius Lane, Cincinnati OH. Cincinnatiparks. com. 513-542-2909.

SUNDAY 9

Coffee-ology Coffee Tasting

undivided attention and therefore we ask that children not attend. For attending you will receive Dr. Melillo’s book Disconnected Kids. We look forward to seeing you!. FREE. Brain Balance Center Of Cincinnati. 12084 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati OH. www.brainbalancecenters. com. 513-257-0705.

Half Pint Kids Club Bananas & Oats

What does your favorite coffee taste like? Would you consider it bold or delicate, acidic or smooth? Join us every Sunday in the café for this educational experience on all things coffee. Learn to correctly taste coffees to get the nuances of each roast. Includes coffee and food pairings. FREE. Whole Foods. 5805 Deerfield Blvd, Mason OH. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/ mason. (513) 398-9358.

It’s A String Thing The wonderful sounds of the violin, viola and cello will string you along as you listen, dance and sing to the music of the string family! Linton Music’s Peanut Butter and Jam Sessions provide children, ages 2 to 6, and their families the opportunity to enjoy classical music together. The concerts are educational, entertaining and interactive!. $5 suggested donation, free ages 12 and under. Clifton Cultural Arts Center. 3711 Clifton Ave., Cincinnati OH. www. cliftonculturalarts.org. (513)497-2860.

Are You My Mummy? In this hands-on mummification demonstration of we will mummify earthworms using natron powder, the same stuff used by the Egyptians! We will also explore related Egyptian works like the pyramids and visit our exhibitThe Science of Mummies and our mummy, Umi, to hear about his story as well. Explorers University workshops are designed for 9 to 15-year-olds! Museum admission is not included i n the workshop fee. $5 per child, per session for members; $7 per child per session. Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati OH. http://www. cincymuseum.org/. (513) 287-7021.

MONDAY 10

Snowed in pj Party (ages 2-5) Snuggle up for wintery bedtime stories. Warm up with some hot chocolate. Free. Boone County Public Library - Florence Branch. 7425 us 42, Florence KY. www.bcpl.org. 859-342-2665.

Wiggle Worms Dance and stomp, clap and tap! Creative Movement’s where it’s at! Join us as we explore movement utilizing yoga, dance, games, and songs. The use of silly props and the acting-out-of-stories will spark your child’s imagination and encourage selfexpression. Sprouts Institute is designed for children ages 3-5 years old. Museum admission is not included in the workshop fee. $5 per child, per session for members; $7 per child per session. Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati OH. http:// www.cincymuseum.org/. (513) 287-7021.

TUESDAY 11

Half Pints age 3-8 are invited with a caregiver to explore and try new foods in a fun environment. Join us in the café for this fun food treat. Today we will make a delicious and nutritious treat! . FREE. Whole Foods. 5805 Deerfield Blvd, Mason OH. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/ mason. (513) 398-9358.

JCC Family Ceramics Workshop Ages 5 - 15 and a parent (open to the public); Bond with your family as you make keepsake ceramic projects. Instructor: Judy Workman, artist and art educator. Contact Info: Courtney Cummings, 513.761.7500, ccummings@ mayersonjcc.org or www.JointheJ.org. J Member Advantage: $45; public: $60. Mayerson JCC. 8485 Ridge Rd., Cincinnati OH. jointhej. org. 513-761-7500.

Title Waves Book Club (ages 9-11) What great new book is making waves in your world? Tell club members all about it. Snacks provided. . Free. Boone County Public Library Main Library. 1786 Burlington Pike, Burilngton KY. www.bcpl.org. 859-342-2665.

WEDNESDAY 12

Cooking Class - Beans, Beans, Beans!

Learn the importance of this little legume while tasting new recipes! In this demonstration class, we’ll have delicious bites and the recipes for you to take home. FREE. Whole Foods. 5805 Deerfield Blvd, Mason OH. www.wholefoodsmarket. com/mason. (513) 398-9358.

JCC Jewelry-Making Workshop Ages 16 and Create a

older (open to the public); necklace with semiprecious stones and silver beads. Add a bracelet or earrings. Instructor: Judy Workman, artist and art educator. Contact Info: Courtney Cummings, 513.761.7500, ccummings@ mayersonjcc.org or www. JointheJ.org. J Member Advantage: $40; public: $55; $20 material fee paid at f. Mayerson JCC. 8485 Ridge Rd., Cincinnati OH. jointhej.org. 513761-7500.

FRIDAY 14 Culture Kids

You and your preschooler learn the “ins” and “outs” of sculpture during story times, tours, and hands-on art activities. Includes snack. Ages 2-5 accompanied by an adult. Reservations required. $10 per pair members, $20 per pair public ($3/$6 for each additi. Cincinnati Art Museum. 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati OH. www. cincinnatiartmuseum.org. (513) 639-2984.

Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey

Winter Feast on Film Series

Food is the essence of life. Join us this winter in taking a closer look at the creation, preparation and consumption of food today. Members free; Nonmembers $5. Pre-registration Required. January 13: Food, Inc. February 3 : FRESH. February 24: What’s on Your Plate? 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford OH. www.cincynature.org. 513-831-1711.

SATURDAY 15

Favorite regional mascots play broomball on ice. Meet mascots 11:30 a.m. . FREE. Fountain Square. Fifth and Vine streets, Cincinnati OH. www.myfountainsquare.com. (513)763-8036.

Do You DS? (ages 8-12)

Brain Balance Parent Lecture

Sample wine, beer and spirits. Booths showcasing boutique wine and craft beer, and others showing gift ideas, culinary products and local food products and services. Cooking stage with cooking demonstrations from local chefs. $7, $3 ages 17 and under with paying adult. Buy $10 ticket for s. Duke Energy Convention Center. 525 Elm St., Cincinnati OH. www. hartproductions.com/travel-sport-andboat-show/. 513-797-7900.

All-Mascot Broomball Exhibition Game

THURSDAY 13 Bring your DS and games and link-up with other tweens. Popcorn provided. free. Boone County Public Library - Lents Branch. 3215 Cougar Path, Hebron KY. www.bcpl.org. 859-342-2665.

Cincy Cheers

Journey to Africa Cyclones vs. Wheeling. Come for Twister Bobblehead Night! 7:30pm. $13-$25.50. US Bank Arena. 100 Broadway, Cincinnati, OH 45202. www.usbankarena.com. 800-745-3000.

New Year, New You 2011 Makeover event featuring wine, hors d’oeuvres, shopping, Mitchell’s Salon & Day Spa services and latest trends in fashion for 2011. Brought to you by Cincy Chic. Free. Mitchell’s Salon. 5901 E. Galbraith Road, Cincinnati OH. newyearnewyou2011. eventbrite.com. 513-793-0900.

Create your own African drum and celebrate African cultures and traditions with music, food, and festivities. Bright Ideas interactive family workshops are designed for 5 to 10-year-olds! A panel of educators will provide these enriching experiences for the whole family. Please note that museum admission is not included in the workshop fee. $5 per child, per session for members; $7 per child per session. Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati OH. http://www.cincymuseum. org/. 1.800.733.2077. CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 35

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calendar

Art in the Making: Printmaking Move over Andy Warhol! Parents and children collaborate with local artist, Leif Fairfield to learn the art of screen printing. Class includes a gallery tour and hands-on art making activity. Classes are designed for children ages 6-12 accompanied by an adult. Reservations are suggested as spaces are limited. . $10 per pair members, $20 per pair public ($3/$6 for each additional child). Cincinnati Art Museum. 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati OH. www.cincinnatiartmuseum. org. (513) 639-2984.

Chili Cook-off! Join us as our Teams prepare their finest recipes and have some fun, in-house competition for the rights of chili master! YOU GET TO BE THE JUDGE as you tour the store and sample each team’s recipes. Join the fun and vote for your favorite dish. Lots of tasty samples and recipe cards for all your favorites. FREE. Whole Foods. 5805 Deerfield Blvd, Mason OH. www. wholefoodsmarket.com/mason. (513) 3989358.

Hang at the J Grades K – 5 (open to the public); This kidsonly party features an evening of exciting evening of games, swimming in the JCC’s indoor waterpark, crafts, and a movie, as well as a kidfriendly dinner. <br>Contact Info: Matt Miller, 513.761.7500, mmiller@mayersonjcc.org or www.JointheJ.org. J Member Advantage: $20; Public: $27. Mayerson JCC. 8485 Ridge Rd., Cincinnati OH. jointhej.org. 513-761-7500.

Let’s Go Out To The Ball Game! It might be cold outside, but inside it’ll be baseball season all night long! Join the Shalom Family team and enjoy a date night out on us! Featuring favorite ballpark fare including sliders, popcorn, hot dogs and much more. Enjoy a FREE ticket to get inside this members-only club which showcases 5,000 square feet of baseball memorabilia. Plus, meet Tom Browning, one of only 20 people to pitch a perfect game! FREE with advance RSVP by January 15th. Open to parents of children 10 and younger, in which at least one parent is Jewish. . Green Diamond Gallery. 9366 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati OH. myshalomfamily.org. 513-407-8992.

FREE. Whole Foods. 5805 Deerfield Blvd, Mason OH. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/ mason. (513) 398-9358.

Squirrels to Stones Scavenger Hunt

Riverfront DanceSport Festival Sessions, workshops, solo exhibitions and formations, freestyles, single dances, scholarships, championships, team match, awards and professional show. $15-$150. Northern Kentucky Convention Cente. 1 W. RiverCenter Blvd., Covington KY. www.nkycc.com. 859816-7072.

Sprouts in the Kitchen Animal Food for Kids Every Saturday, we will take kids age 5-12 on a fun food adventure while teaching them about good nutrition! Join us today as we make a yummy treat for all the little 2 legged animals! 36 CINCINNATI PARENT * JANUARY 2011

Kid’s Cooking

Jazz Explosion/HS Jazz Combo Performance

Mayerson JCC hosts Playhouse in the Park’s “Dis/Troy” Recommended for ages 10 and older; Description: Funny, lively and accessible, “Dis/ Troy” retains the eloquence and complexity of Homer’s well-known classic. Contact Info: For more information, call the Mayerson JCC at 513.761.7500, info@mayersonjcc.org, or www. JointheJ.org. FREE & open to the public. Mayerson JCC. 8485 Ridge Rd., Cincinnati OH. jointhej.org. 513-761-7500.

Young at Art (ages 3-7) Discover your inner artist through paper collage. We’ll have lots of books for inspiration. free. Boone County Public Library - Scheben Branch. 8899 us 42, Union KY. www.bcpl.org. 859342-2665.

MONDAY 17

MLK Day Camp at the J

Optional before & after camp programs are available; before care: 8 – 9:30am; after care: 3:30 – 6pm; Grades K – 6 (open to the public); Description: On school vacation days, bring the kids to the J. They’ll splash in the waterpark, play games in the gym, create great art projects, and enjoy the awesome new Club J room. Contact Info: Matt Miller, 513.761.7500, mmiller@ mayersonjcc.org. J Member Advantage: $48; public: $58; Add $6 for before care and. Mayerson JCC. 8485 Ridge Rd., Cincinnati OH. www. JointheJ.org. 513.761.7500.

Brew Review

Kids “PJ Patch” Dedication with Tu B’shvat Celebration

SUNDAY 16

CCM Prep jazz students will perform an evening of jazz. Free and open to the public. College Conservatory of Music at UC. 3860 Corbett, Cincinnati OH. http://ccm.uc.edu/prep. html. 513-556-2595.

THURSDAY 20 Join us the third Thursday of each month for the Brew Review! We’ll learn about and sample 5 beers paired along side delicious bites. Please register in advance by calling 513-459-6131 or emailing emily.hahn@wholefoods.com. $5. Whole Foods. 5805 Deerfield Blvd, Mason OH. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/mason. (513) 398-9358.

TUESDAY 18

Are your kids experiencing cabin fever? Join us for an active and fun hunt for common nature objects and discover some interesting facts along the way. For all ages Dress for the weather. Meet at the shelter house. FREE. Kennedy Heights Park. 6039 Kennedy Ave., Cincinnati OH. Cincinnatiparks.com. 321-6070.

Madcap Puppets presents Peter and the Wolf Ongoing through Sunday, January 16. A woodwind quintet and giant puppets give Sergei Prokofiev’s classic a fresh new update Madcap takes this classic drama out of the countryside and into the bustling city. The lovable kid, Peter, lives in a high rise apartment with his grumpy grandpa and spends his summer days in the park with some quirky friends. When they are all bullied by a Mafioso Wolf, they join together to teach him a lesson. Times vary – see website for details. $7. Xavier University, Gallagher Center. 3800 Victory Parkway, Cincinnati OH. www. madcappuppets.com. 513-745-3576.

Western Avenue, Cincinnati OH. http://www. cincymuseum.org/. (513) 287-7021.

Come to the library and make a yummy healthy snack. Ages 5-12. Avondale Branch. 3566 Reading Rd, Cincinnati OH. http://www. cincinnatilibrary.org. (513)369-4440.

Snowman Placemat Make a wintry snowman placemat to liven up your table during snowy times. Ages 6 - 12 with adult. Advance registration required. Forest Park Branch. 655 Waycross Rd, Cincinnati OH. http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org.

Circus Experience: Join the Circus for a night Bring your child to join the circus for a night at our Studio in Clifton Ohio. He can learn and see some of the skills that we perform on a daily basis like ballooning and juggling. Please RSVP by phone to 513-921-5454 . Free. Essex Studios. 501 Minnesota Street, Cincinnati Ohio. http:// www.amazingportablecircus.com/. 513921-5454.

What Parents Should Know About Reading and Comprehension Development Learn about current national research focused on the path of successful readers, and how to better follow your own child’s reading development and learning. This seminar will cover the 5 critical literacy skills of successful reading and compensation skills which mask successful reading development. Seating is limited: RSVP to http://langsfordcenter.com/events/rsvp. php or (513) 531-7400. Free. Langsford Learning Acceleration Center. 9402 Towne Square Ave, Cincinnati OH. www.WeTeachReading.com. 513-531-7400.

FRIDAY 21 Ladies’ Night

WEDNESDAY 19

Build Your Own Telescope Class Want to know what special secrets may be hiding in the Milky Way or on Orion’s Belt? Then join us at Drake Planetarium when we teach you how to build your own telescope! We will give each parent child team a Galileoscope, show you how to assemble it, and train you how to use it to observe the night sky. The Galileoscope is yours to keep. We only have space for 30 teams so reserve your spot today!. For a parent-child team $35 Members, $45 Non-members; additional. Drake Planetarium. 2020 Sherman Ave., 4th floor of Norwood High School, Cincinnati OH. www.drakeplanetarium.org. 513-396-5578.

Full Moon Walk Recommended for ages 8 and older. Hit the trails at night and enjoy the full moon and natural history readings. Preregistration is required. 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford www.cincynature.org. 513-831-1711.

Ages 6 months - 5 1/2 years and parent or caregiver; Description: Celebrate Tu B’shvat, the Jewish Festival of the Trees, as the JCC dedicates their new indoor play area, “the PJ Patch.” Stories, crafts, music, and more Contact Info: Elizabeth Woosley, 513.761.7500, ewoosley@ mayersonjcc.org or www.JointheJ.org. FREE and open to the public. Mayerson JCC. 8485 Ridge Rd., Cincinnati OH. jointhej.org. 513761-7500.

Our Ladies Night is the perfect Girlfriends Getaway! We supply appetizers and you can BYOB! Sorry, no kiddies- this night is just for the ladies. Call 561-1888 to reserve your space, as they are limited. . $4 studio fee. The Mad Potter. 7 7 5 4 Camargo Rd., Madeira OH. w w w. m y m a d p o t t e r . com/Madeira. 513-5611888.

Monster Truck Nationals Ongoing through Saturday, January 22. Monster trucks include Big Dawg, High Maintenance, Anger Management, Tailgator and American Guardian. With big air stunt routines by FMX teams and mini off road race trucks. vary. Bank of Kentucky Center. 500 Nunn Drive, Highland Heights KY. www.bankof kentuckycenter.com. 800-745-3000.

SATURDAY 22 OH.

Music and Movement

Make-It-Take-It: Visual Supports for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Discover the magic of music together! Children, along with a parent or caregiver, are invited to sing, dance, chant and play instruments in an informal setting. Eliana Corredor, a registered Music Together teacher who has a Masters in Music, leads this workshop. Sprouts Institute workshops are designed for ages birth to 3 years. Museum admission is not included in the workshop fee. $5 per child, per session for members; $7 per child per session. Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301

The Make-it-Take-it Visual Supports workshop will show you how to make and use visual supports for the home, school, and community. The class size will be limited and will be facilitated by staff members from The Kelly O’Leary Center. . Fee is $10.00 to cover the cost of materials. Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. 3430 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati OH. www.cincinnatichildrens.org. 513-6361377.

“Why the Sky is Far Away” & Other Wonderful Tales to Celebrate the Earth

A brilliant storyteller, LuAnn Adams is a long-time favorite with parents and children in our community. Featuring Native American folklore and tales from the Rain Forest, these multi-cultural stories celebrate the relationship between people, animals and the amazing world we share. Shows at 10:30am and 1:00pm. . Tickets: Ages 4-18: $5; Adults: $6. Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. 962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati OH. www.cincyplay.com. 513421-3888.

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CSO Presents: Peter & the Wolf (with the Cincinnati Ballet) A bird, a cat, a duck and a boy come face to face with the big, bad wolf. Grandfather will not be amused! Join the CSO and the Cincinnati Ballet for Prokofiev’s fun and fabled musical tale. Be sure to come early to the Kid’s Zone in the Music Hall Ballroom before the concert where members of the Cincinnati Ballet will get you moving. Ticket prices vary - see website for details. Music Hall. 1241 Elm St, Cincinnati OH. cincinnatisymphony.org. 513-381-3300.

Family Saturday: Paper Play Join a local artist, Mindy Carson and shows you how to create your own paper by recycling scraps of paper that would otherwise be thrown out. Inspired by the artist Shinji Turner-Yamamoto who creates art that references nature and often uses natural materials she will show you how to create art and be more aware of the eco-system. 10:30-11:30am. Free with CAC Admission. Contemporary Arts Center. 44 E Sixth Street, Cincinnati Oh. http://www. contemporaryartscenter.org/UnMuseum/ ThursdayArtPlay. 513.345.8400.

Lollipop Family Concerts: Mozart

required! . FREE. Whole Foods. 5805 Deerfield Blvd, Mason OH. www.wholefoodsmarket. com/mason. (513) 398-9358.

SUNDAY 23

Shake off the Winter Blues Hike

Pop-Up Cards

Get your blood pumping and your body moving as we hit the trail and hike the hills of Ault Park. We will make some rest stops along the way and admire the winter scenery and look for wildlife in the quiet woods. Make sure to dress for the cold. Meet in the parking lot. Call 2318678 for information.FREE. Ault Park. 3600 Observatory, Cincinnati OH. Cincinnatiparks. com. 231-8678.

Discover the magic of pop-ups and make a winter greeting card. Ages 5-12. West End Branch. 805 Ezzard Charles Dr.. http://www. cincinnatilibrary.org. (513)369-6026. www. cincinnatilibrary.org.

MONDAY 24 Monday Movies

Relax, laugh & enjoy an after-school movie. Call 369-6053 for title. All ages. Walnut Hills Branch. 2533 Kemper Ln. http://www. cincinnatilibrary.org. (513)369-6053. www. cincinnatilibrary.org.

Strength-based Parenting: Raising kids who feel great about themselves and others Working from strengths, yours and your child’s, in an intentional way helps kids grow up to be exactly who they’re meant to be – and that creates an aura of positive energy in family life. Learn what it means to be Intentional, Mindful and Strength-based with your children. $15 per person. Beech Acres Parenting Center. 6881 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati OH. BeechAcres.org/classes. (513) 231-6630.

TUESDAY 25

Brain Balance Parent Lecture Discover the childhood genius of Mozart! Join the CSO and Know Theatre of Cincinnati as we present a concert featuring Mozart’s marvelous music coupled with a brand new play. Join us at the Kids’ Zone starting at 9:30 am for pre-concert fun! For children ages 3–10 and their families. $12 adult, $7 children. Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. 1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati OH. www.cincinnatisymphony.org. 513-381-3300.

Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey vs. Kalamazoo. Come for Kids Eat FREE Night! 7:30pm. $13-$25.50. US Bank Arena. 100 Broadway, Cincinnati, OH 45202. www. usbankarena.com. 800-7453000.

Sprouts in the Kitchen - Baked Apples

At the lecture you will learn about the exciting Brain Balance Program and how it can help your child succeed academically, socially and behaviorally. You will also have the opportunity to ask all the questions you may have. Seating is limited so call today to reserve your seat. Please note the material being presented needs your undivided attention and therefore we ask that children not attend. For attending you will receive Dr. Melillo’s book Disconnected Kids. We look forward to seeing you!. FREE. Brain Balance Center Of Cincinnati. 12084 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati OH. www. brainbalancecenters. com. 513-257-0705.

Music Cafe An evening at Music Café is like music to your ears. Literally. Featuring a wide variety of musical performances of all ages. Come enjoy melodies from all genres, including everything from folk music and worldly sounds to bluegrass and hard rock. . FREE. Fitton Center for Creative Arts. 101 South Monument Avenue, Hamilton OH. w w w.f ittoncenter.org/musiccafe.html. (513) 863-8873.

WEDNESDAY 26 Mediatainment Every Saturday, we will take kids age 5-12 on a fun food adventure while teaching them about good nutrition! Today we’ll make a yummy baked apple which is both nutritious and no oven is

This month we will focus on relieving financial stress. $7 in advance, $8 at the door. Drake Planetarium. 2020 Sherman Ave., 4th floor of Norwood High School, Cincinnati OH. www. drakeplanetarium.org. 513-396-5578.

Leave your worries about the economy behind. Join us for guided meditation under the stars at Drake Planetarium for a time to relax and rejuvenate with our Meditainment specialists.

Wee Wednesdays Smiles, frowns, squints, and more! The Art Museum has paintings of all kinds of faces. This open house for preschoolers and parents is held on the last Wednesday of the month and offers storytelling and touchable objects. Free, no reservations required, unable to accommodate school groups. . Parking $4.00; Art Museum members park free. Cincinnati Art Museum. 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati OH. www. cincinnatiartmuseum.org. (513) 639-2984.

THURSDAY 27 Mom’s Night Out

Mom’s Night Out is an opportunity for local mothers to get together without the kids to socialize, relax, and be pampered. We know it’s hard being a mom - you deserve a break! Great food, goodies, giveaways & drinks – what could be better! . FREE. Whole Foods. 5805 Deerfield Blvd, Mason OH. www.wholefoodsmarket. com/mason. (513) 398-9358.

Thursday Art Play: Big fun/Big wheels How can you make art with wheels? Join us to discover fun techniques to create art inspired by the paintings of Rosson Crow and American motorcycle culture. 10:30-11:30am. Free with CAC Admission. Contemporary Arts Center. 44 E Sixth Street, Cincinnati Oh. http://www. contemporaryartscenter.org/UnMuseum/ ThursdayArtPlay. 513.345.8400.

FRIDAY 28

calendar

Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey vs. South Carolina. Come for Military Appreciation Night or Scout Night! 7:30pm. $13-$25.50. US Bank Arena. 100 Broadway, Cincinnati, OH 45202. www.usbankarena. com. 800-745-3000.

Owl Prowl Families are invited to have a hootin’ good time learning about our nocturnal neighbors. An indoor presentation will allow you to get close to some live species and do hands-on activities. We’ll go on an outdoor night hike where we’ll try to hear the calls of these amazing predators. The program is FREE; reservations are required by Jan. 20. For more information or reservations, call 861-3435. . FREE. Avon Woods Nature Preserve. 4235 Paddock Road, Cincinnati OH. Cincinnatiparks.com. 513-861-3435.

SATURDAY 29

Bill Harley: A Family Concert Featuring Bill Harley, this Grammy Awardwinning artist engages the entire family with songs that paint a vibrant and hilarious picture of growing up. Shows at 10:30am and 1:00pm. . Tickets: Ages 4-18: $5; Adults: $6. Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. 962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati OH. www.cincyplay.com. 513421-3888.

Madcap Puppets presents Peter and the Wolf Ongoing through Sunday, January 30. A woodwind quintet and giant puppets give Sergei Prokofiev’s classic a fresh new update Madcap takes this classic drama out of the countryside and into the bustling city. The lovable kid, Peter, lives in a high rise apartment with his grumpy grandpa and spends his summer days in the park with some quirky friends. When they are all bullied by a Mafioso Wolf, they join together to teach him a lesson. The music and mayhem end with a parade through the auditorium, which will delight young and old. $7. Cincinnati Art Museum. 953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati OH. www.madcappuppets.com. 513-721-ARTS.

Fitton Family Friday: Pino & Bonzer Variety Show

Sprouts in the Kitchen - Pizza-dillas

Fitton Family Fridays feature entertainment geared to kids of all ages, from preschoolers to teenagers—including parents who are still kids at heart. A funny little clown. A hat stealing dog. A lady who has you bark to music. It’s a wild and wacky show with zany characters, comedy, songs, mime and clever dogs with plenty of tricks up their, uh… paws and no woof it’s fun for everyone!! . Adults: $10/members; $12/non. Children (up to age 16): $5/member. Fitton Center for Creative Arts. 101 South Monument Avenue, Hamilton OH. www.fittoncenter.org. (513) 863-8873.

Every Saturday, we will take kids age 5-12 on a fun food adventure while teaching them about good nutrition! Join us today as we make a yummy pizza/quesadilla combination. FREE. Whole Foods. 5805 Deerfield Blvd, Mason OH. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/mason. (513) 398-9358.

Montgomery Elementary Carnival It is a night of fun for all the families and friends of the Sycamore school district. Everyone comes out of the cold to jump on inflatables, play games, win prizes, eat some tasty food or try their luck at the silent auction and raffle. Buffalo Wings and Rings will cater the event. All activities start at 5:30 pm and end at 9:00 pm on January 28, 2011. Tickets may be purchased at the school. The games and prizes are geared for kids from 4 years old to 5th grade. Free to enter. Tickets purchased for games... Montgomery Elementary. 9609 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati OH. 513686-1730.

The Rockin’ Adventures of Peter Rabbit ArtReach, division of Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, gives Beatrix Potter’s beloved characters a modern musical makeover. $5. Raymond Walters College - Muntz Hall. 9555 Plainfield Road, Blue Ash OH. www.rwc. uc.edu/. 513-745-5705.

SUNDAY 30

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MONDAY 31

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ONGOING EVENTS Penguin Days at the Zoo Occurring Daily Beginning Monday, January 03, 2011 Through Monday, February 28, 2011. Enjoy half price admission to the Zoo every day. Remember to dress warm... BRRR! HALF PRICE! Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.s 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220. www.cincyzoo.org. 513-683-6990. Omnimax Theatre: HUBBLE Ongoing daily through January 31, 2011. For 20 years, the Hubble Space Telescope has dazzled us with unprecedented views of the cosmos- from the splendor of our celestial neighborhood to galaxies billions of light years away. Recounting the amazing journey of the most important scientific instrument since Galileo’s original telescope, Hubble will immerse moviegoers in the great wonders and astounding beauty of our universe. See website for hours. $7.50 Adult, $6.50 Senior, $5.50 Child (3-12). Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati OH. www.cincymuseum.org. (513) 287-7000. Ice Skating on Fountain Square Occurring Daily Through February 20, 2011. Dust off your ice skates, the 7,000-square-foot ice rink is back again! Many Cincinnatians harbor fond memories of ice skating on Fountain Square on a frosty winter day in the midst of downtown’s tallest buildings. Please note that times are subject to change due to weather or special events. Check website for times and updates. $3/person plus $3 skate rental. Fountain Square. 520 Vine Street, Cincinnati OH. www.myfountainsquare.com/icerink. 513.381.0782. Burn the Floor Occurring Daily (except Mon) Beginning Tuesday, January 18, 2011 Through Sunday, January 30, 2011. Journey through passionate drama of dance. Viennese Waltz, Jive, Paso Doble, Tango, Samba, Mambo, Quickstep and Swing. Presented by Broadway Across America. $22.50-$62.50. Aronoff Center - Procter & Gamble Hall. 650 Walnut St, Cincinnati OH. www.cincinnatiarts.org. 513621-ARTS(2787. Cavalcade of Customs Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, January 07, 2011 Through Sunday, January 09, 2011. Custom car show. Meet Nickelodeon’s Spongebob Squarepants, Patrick and Dora the Explorer. Includes BMX Extreme Freestyle exhibition performances, Ben-Gal Cheerleaders, Swamp Rat cars and KOI Area Pinstripers exhibit and charity art auctions to benefit Kidney Foundation. $14, $5 ages 6-12, free ages 5 and under. Discounts availabl. Duke Energy Convention Center. 525 Elm St., Cincinnati OH. www.duke-energycenter.com. 513-352-3750. Cincinnati Travel, Sports and Boat Show Occurring Daily (except Mon & Tue) Beginning Friday, January 14, 2011 Through Sunday, January 23, 2011. It’s a lot of Boats, a lot of Travel, a lot of Fishing, a lot of Outdoors and a lot of Fun! With over 400 exhibitors in the expanded Duke Energy Convention Center, you will find the hottest boats from the region’s best dealers at pre-season prices, the best travel and vacation opportunities from private resorts, states, fishing guides, outfitters, convention & visitors bureaus, and tourism associations in the U.S., Canada and elsewhere. $10, free ages 13 and under with adult. $3 discount at any area. Duke Energy Convention Center. 525 Elm St., Cincinnati OH. www.hartproductions. com/travel-sport-and-boat-show/. 513-797-7900. Open Enrollment for ArtVenture Occurring Each Monday Through Monday, January 31, 2011. ArtVenture – Art Classes for All Ages at Kennedy Heights Arts Center. Enrollment opens Monday, November 15, 2011 for Winter/ Spring classes at Kennedy Heights Arts Center Innovative art classes offered for children from Preschool through High school from January 10 until April 30, 2011. Classes meet once a week, led by experienced teaching artists. Flexible enrollment - sign up for one month or the whole term (four months). Classes promote guided-discovery, a process which fosters individual creativity, through a variety of media from sculpture to painting to drawing and more. Teen programs offer focused instruction in two areas: drawing/painting and photography. Kennedy Heights Arts Center. 6546 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati OH. www.kennedyarts.org. 513-631-4278. Passport to the World: African Culture Fest Ongoing Daily Beginning January 15 Through January 17. Visitors get an inside-look into the beauty and richness of cultures from around the globe. This culture fest provides a glimpse into Africa’s culture’s arts and heritage through displays, cultural presentations, performances and merchandise, and provides a forum for interacting and learning with community members of different backgrounds. Free and open to the public. Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45203. w w w. c i n c y m u s e u m . o r g . 1.800.733.2077. 38 CINCINNATI PARENT * JANUARY 2011

Jr Chef Weekly Classes Ongoing every Saturday of the month. Reservation and Registration required. Techniques class for ages 5-12. JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: Young Chefs Academy Cincinnati . $30. Young Chefs Academy. 6649 Western Row Rd, Mason OH. www.youngchefsacademy. com/cincinnati. 513-549-CHEF (2433). Holiday Toy Train Display Occurring Daily (except Mon) Through Sunday, January 16, 2011. All Aboard! Enjoy fun for the whole family at BCM’s 19th Annual Holiday Toy Trains. Over 250 feet of track, 6 working Lionel trains and 25 accessories including being able to operate your own train await the young and young at heart at this year’s exhibit. Experience the joy of model railroading up close and in person without the hectic crowds. This exhibit is included in the cost of admission, $7 Adults, $6. Behringer Crawford Museum. 1600 Montague Road, Covington, KY 41011. www.bcmuseum.org. (859) 491-4003.

Mommy & Me Time Ongoing every Wednesday of the month. Unlimited bowling, shoe rental and soft drinks. PLUS fresh popcorn and cheese pizza! Cartoons and movies shown on lane screens. Sign up your child today!. $15 per child with same day purchase, $10 advance. Stars Lanes on the Levee. 1 Levee Way, Newport KY. www. starlaneslevee.com. 859-625-7250. Form From Form: Art from Discovery Ongoing Daily Beginning January 22 Through March 13. Form From Form features works of art based on the themes of metamorphosis, evolution and change as well as the life and work of the “Father of Evolution”, Charles Darwin. Both children and adults will enjoy the fantastical perspectives and whimsical shapes and colors of the pieces created by leading Cincinnati artists. The styles of the art work ranges from oil paintings and sculpture to mixed media and ceramics. Prices vary. Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45203. www.cincymuseum.org. 1.800.733.2077. The Second City does Cincinnati: Pride and Porkopolis Ongoing (except Mon) Through Sunday, January 9. The world’s premier comedy company, The Second City, is coming to the Queen City with an original show about all things Cincinnati! Famous for their hilarious sketch comedy and equally famous alumni (Tina Fey, Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, John Belushi and Bill Murray, to name a few), The Second City is turning its talents R E SOURC E S * to custom craft a no-holds-barred comedy revue all about us. From f lying pigs and 3-Ways to Opening Day and Who Dey, no German beer will be left unopened in this fun and irreverent celebration of the city formerly known as Porkopolis. Goetta your tickets now! Ticket prices and times vary. Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. 962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati, OH 45202. www.cincyplay.com. 513.421.3888.

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Winter Fun at Perfect North

Next Birthday, have a

Music Pups® Party!

Occurring Daily Through Monday, March 1, 2011. Skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing all available at family resort. Rentals, discounts and food available everyday. Great location, easy to get to in Indiana! Check the snow report or call before making a trip - hours vary depending on weather conditions. Ticket prices vary. Perfect North Slopes. 19074 Perfect Lane, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025. www.perfectnorth.com. (812) 537-3754.

Visit CincinnatiParent.com for more great ideas on things to do!!!

Singing, Dancing, Instruments, Bubbles, Parachutes, More! West Chester Academy of Music www.wcaom.com

829-2345

Fun! Ages 1 to 5!

January Sunday

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Saturday 1

E-mail editor@cincinnatiparent.com images of your family participating in one of these fun days and/or send us your day of the month ideas and we will include them in an upcoming issue!

Celebration Idea: Commit to doing something to move in the direction of achieving your dreams today!

18 O

L PO PCORN

Celebration Idea: Have cheese at every meal! Scrambled eggs with cheese, grilled cheese, mac and cheese...

King Jr. Day

UT BU T TER

DAY

n N ati o

ds a w k c a B Day!

STR

N I E DAY

Chocolat e Cake Day

Hat Day a

LU lB

EBERR

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Y! DA

W RO

C A K E DAY

Celebration Idea: Make peanut butter cookies as a special treat!

ICE CRE

Puzzle Day29

N PA

e O p p osi t

IO CH

Day

is cr o sa nt

Cheese Day

RY ER

Celebration Idea: Over dinner, talk about one thing at which you could work harder. Is it math? Being on time? Cleaning your room?

Dress Up Your Pet Day!

BLO N D E

Work Harder Day

Make Your13 Dreams Come True Day

Bubble Bath Day

I'm Not Going to Take It Anymore Day!

NA TI

Winnie the Pooh Martin Luther Day

Y! DA

Measure 23 Your Feet Day

Milk Day

Y! DA

G NOTHYIN !

Peculiar People Day

Cuddle Up Day Celebration Idea: It's a great day for hot cocoa and snuggling together on the couch!

Y! DA

l Nationa DO

Cream Day

Braille Day Whipped

Celebration Idea: Use a straw for everything you drink today.

National Static Electricity Day

N ati o

Dr i n k i n g Straw Day

55 MPH Speed Limit Day

PIS

Celebration Idea: Have a family puzzle night! Jigsaw, crossword, etc...

Celebration Idea: Breakfast for dinner. Shirts inside out. Use the backwards version of your name.

JANUARY IS... Blood donor month - thank you month - stay healthy month - national be on-purpose month - get organized month - clean up your computer month - birth defects month - bath safety month - soup month - hot tea month...

Sources: familycrafts.about.com, brownielocks.com, holidayinsights.com, holidaysforeveryday.com & thenibble.com

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40 CINCINNATI PARENT * JANUARY 2011