0116 cp issuu

Cincinnati

{JANUARY 2016}

serving cincinnati and northern kentucky parents

free

STEM

EDUCATION Which academic environment is right for your child?

TAKING ADVANTAGE OF THIS GROWING TREND WITH CINCY AREA PROGRAMS

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THE MIDDLE SCHOOL IEP HOW THIS IMPORTANT DOCUMENT RELATES TO OLDER STUDENTS

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ARTS AND ENRICHMENT GUIDE

IN EV ERY I S SUE

contents {January 2016}

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{ F EATURES}

16 // Getting Schooled

A look at the variety of local educational options available to students today

22 // The Middle School IEP

How this important document relates to your older student

24 // STEM Education

Taking advantage of this growing trend with Cincinnati area programs

28 // Family New Year's Resolutions Fun ideas to get 2016 off to a great start!

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{HEALTH & WELLNESS} 26

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M u lti ple ki ds, i n divi dual personaliti es NUtrition an d school success

{COMMENTARY & PARENTING} 12

FOOTNOTES

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A DAD IN FLUENCE

36

ASK THE TEACHER

{IN EVERY ISSUE} 06

EDITOR'S NOTE

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COM M UNITY SPOTLIGHT

10

ONLINE BUZZ

{RESOURCES & CALENDARS} 32

ARTS & ENRICH M ENT GUIDE

38

PRESCHOOL & EDUCATION GUIDE

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DAILY EVENTS

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ONGOING EVENTS

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RESOURCE DIRECTORY

47

FUN & WACKY CALENDAR

January 2016 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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EDITOR ' S NOT E

WORDS BY // SUSAN BRYANT

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2015 Silver Award Winner General Excellence Awards Competition

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2015 Silver Award Winner Editorial Awards Competition

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2015 Silver Award Winner Design Awards Competition

meet the staff Publisher Mary Wynne Cox // mary@cincinnatiparent.com

Editor Susan Bryant // susan@cincinnatiparent.com

ADVERTISING & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Katie Clark // katie@cincinnatiparent.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Charity Kirtley // charity@cincinnatiparent.com Katy Mark // katy@cincinnatiparent.com Melissa Wittenbaum // melissa@cincinnatiparent.com

Bring It On 2016!

Blank slate. Fresh start. Do-over. In the midst of winter, this notion gives January a ray of optimism. You can’t help but feel like the start of a new year is a chance to hit the reset button and start from square one.

Advertising Coordinator Karen Ring // karen@cincinnatiparent.com

COMMUNITY Outreach & Social Media Sarah McCosham // sarah@cincinnatiparent.com

WEB EDITOR Wendy Cox // wendy@cincinnatiparent.com

GRAPHICS ASSISTANT Maria Tancredi // maria@cincinnatiparent.com

At Cincinnati Parent, the month of January has become our Education Issue. (The best changes are the result of being better informed, right?) We know that your child’s schooling plays a critical role in the life of your family. Are you considering a switch from public to private? Maybe you’re evaluating online schools or thinking about homeschooling. There are so many choices when it comes to academics these days – check out our article Getting Schooled for a breakdown of the many educational options available to your kids.

Is your child involved in a STEM program at school or in your community? STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) learning is an approach that gains more momentum every day. Take a look at STEM Education for tips on taking advantage of quality programs in our area.

If your child has an IEP at school, you know how this document influences their academic and social life on a daily basis. As students enter higher grades, their IEP can change with them. Find out what these changes typically mean for older kids in The Middle School IEP. Finally, we would be remiss if we didn’t encourage you to read our Ask the Teacher column. Every month our resident expert gives great advice on timely topics. If you haven’t checked out this column yet, be sure to give it a look!

January is the start of a new year and a new semester for kids – we hope both get off to a great start in your family!

P.S. Need a little inspiration to make some positive changes with the kids in 2016?

Try reading Family New Year’s Resolutions for some fun and easy ways to get everyone motivated in the coming year!

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INTERN Meg Wynne // meg@cincinnatiparent.com

Business Manager Roxanne Burns // roxanne@cincinnatiparent.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Maggie Loiselle, Michelle Shirk, Lauren Lawson, Sarah Bricker-Hunt, Pete Gilbert, Deb Krupowicz, Kelly Blewett, Ashley Albertson

CALENDAR OF EVENTS calendar@cincinnatiparent.com

Contact Us 9435 Waterstone Blvd., Ste. 140, Cincinnati, OH 45249 P: (513) 444-2015 • F: (513) 444-2099

CoPYRIGHT Cincinnati Parent Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2015 by 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.cincinnatiparent.com.

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IN EV ERY I S SU E

community {SPOTLIGHT} //WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN JANUARY

It’s a penguin parade

Sing along with Zak Morgan

This winter, watch as a parade of penguins marches through the Cincinnati Zoo as part of the Zoo’s eponymous Penguin Days. It may be cold outside, but these Arctic animals are in their element! In fact, you’ll see the penguins, polar bears, snow monkeys and even elephants enjoy the winter weather in their own way. Warm up at heated animal exhibits throughout the park, plus enjoy half-price admission every day through March 11!

Grammy-nominated Zak Morgan returns to the Fitton Center for Creative Arts on January 15 for the first Family Friday of 2016! With a background in children’s literature, Zak approaches each song as a separate musical adventure to create an interactive concert experience that is full of humorous wordplay and fun for all ages! Tickets to Fitton Family Fridays are FREE for kids under 16.

Cincinnati Zoo January 3 - March 11

Fitton Center for Creative Arts January 15, 7:30 pm http://fittoncenter.org/event-series/ fitton-family-fridays/

http://cincinnatizoo.org/events/ penguin-days/

Have fun at The Beach!

Who says you can’t go to the beach in January? All winter long, the beloved Beach Waterpark is transformed into “The Beach Mountain,” a bona fide ski park where guests can go tubing down snow-covered, 400-foot-long “slopes.” Young children can head down a pint-size slope created especially for them or stay on flat ground to make snowmen or snow angels. There’s even a “winter chalet” where families can warm up and grab hot cocoa.

Beach Waterpark Daily through March 6 (see website for hours and weather closings) http://www.thebeachmountain.com/

Take part in a centuriesold holiday tradition The Boar’s Head Festival, thought to be the oldest continuing festival of the Christmas season, originated at Queen’s College, Oxford, England in 1340 to celebrate the staple of medieval banquets – roasted boar. Christ Church Cathedral introduced this celebration to Cincinnati in 1940, and has continued the tradition ever since. Now in its 76th year, the Cincinnati Boar’s Head Festival features a cast of more than 200 people dressed in traditional 14th century English attire who relay the tales of a bygone era through story and song. It is a holiday celebration like none other!

Christ Church Cathedral January 2 and 3 http://www.boarsheadfestival.com/index.shtml

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‘Tis the season to celebrate toys!

What do Easy Bake Ovens, Strawberry Shortcake dolls and Star Wars action figures have in common? They’re all classic Kenner toys! Now, you can get up close and personal with the Cincinnati-based toy titan at Just in Time for the Holidays: Kenner Toys. This exhibit showcases Kenner-designed toys and brands spanning six decades, and reveals the history behind this local company.

Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County’s Main Library location Daily through Jan. 16 http://issuu.com/plch/docs/links2016-1/5

High fashion in Cincinnati If you have a budding young designer at home, the Cincinnati Museum Center has just the exhibit for you! High Style: Twentieth-Century Masterworks from the Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection traces the evolution of fashion from 1910 to 1980, and features garments and accessories by the most influential European and American designers of the 20th century. In addition, on January 2 from noon to 4 pm., the museum will host “First Family Saturday: So Stylish,” a kid-friendly event to accompany the exhibit. Enjoy familyfriendly performances, artist demonstrations, storytelling, scavenger hunts, tours and hands-on art making activities.

Cincinnati Museum Center High Style runs through Jan. 24 and admission to the Art Museum is always free. http://www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org/art/exhibitions/ upcoming-exhibitions/details/1830-high-style

We’re off to see the Wizard!

Add a little adventure to those gray January days with a trip to The Carnegie for their exciting production of The Wizard of Oz. Follow along with Dorothy, Toto and their newfound friends as they head to the Emerald City in this beloved classic, which has been imaginatively reproduced for The Carnegie stage, with accompaniment by The Kentucky Symphony Orchestra. Based on the hit MGM film, The Wizard of Oz brings out the child in everyone!

The Carnegie, Covington January 21 - 31, 2016 Thursday, Friday & Saturday Evenings at 7:30 pm; Matinees Saturday at 2:00 pm and Sunday at 3:00 pm http://www.thecarnegie.com/ tickets_theatre.php

See animals in a whole new light at The Robot Zoo The Robot Zoo is a 5,000-square-foot exhibit of giant robots that offers a glimpse into the movements of real animals. This popular exhibit has made appearances at museums across the country, including the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago and The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. Now, for the first time, The Robot Zoo has been installed in a library – with free admission! The Robot Zoo, featuring interactive, educational activities designed for children age 4 to 12, will be at the Boone County Public Library through February 28. Don’t miss out!

Boone County Public Library Daily through February 28 http://www.bcpl.org/

See a piano prodigy in action!

Twelve-year-old piano prodigy Gavin George began his formal training at age three, made his symphonic debut at age seven and has since performed across the globe. Now you can see this phenom in action at Xavier University’s Gallagher Theatre on January 17. Come and be inspired by the talent of this young piano prodigy.

Xavier University’s Gallagher Theatre January 17, 2:30 pm http://www.xavier.edu/campusuite25/modules/ calendar.cfm?grp_id=323&cal_id=38885#.

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COMM EN TARY & PAR E N T IN G

WORDS BY // KELLY BLEWETT

Footnotes //Thoughts from the margins of a mom’s life Hand me a tissue, please!

When I was still under thirty and hadn’t had children I worried about what kind of impact kids would have on my life. I imagined evenings staying in rather than going to the movies with friends. (This turned out to be accurate.) I imagined nights waking up to change sheets and feed babies. (This was also accurate.) I also fantasized about the sweet weight of a baby in my arms (and that turned out to be even better than I’d imagined). What I hadn’t anticipated though, was how I would be ruined for TV. Let me explain.

I used to watch all sorts of shows straight through. But since having children, I’ve become a crier. I now keep tissues a mere arm’s length away for the inevitable moment when I will see some reference to any of the following: a child tenderly petting an animal, a child getting

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reunited with a loving grown-up or a child saying something profound and funny. These are all happy tears. Even commercials can turn on the waterworks.

Other tears, however, are unhappy. These moments are prompted by scenes of lost children, worried children or children forcibly separated from their mother (worst of all). You’d be surprised how often such scenes turn up.

They are, after all, shorthand for raising the stakes of a dramatic situation. When I was reading a recent bestselling novel by a wellknown writer, a particular child seemed exceptionally sweet and vulnerable. As expected, the child was killed shortly thereafter and the rest of the book focused on identifying the guilty party. I understand narrative devices, but apparently, my teary eyes do not. As another

example, once while watching a movie when I was nine months pregnant with our second child, I started sobbing a mere three minutes from the ending because it appeared that a child was going to get swept into a hurricane away from his mother. I left the room. My husband later assured me that the child had been saved.

It didn’t matter. I was still devastated.

So, over-identification with little people has turned me into an easy emotional mark, a sucker, a sap. But still, isn’t there something valuable in being so emotionally raw? More human maybe? Either way, in my house we will keep on loving the real children under our roof – and continue buying tissues for the imaginary little ones we see on the screen.

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COMM EN TARY & PARE N T IN G

WORDS BY // PETE GILBERT

A Dad Influence Parenting New Year’s Resolutions It’s that time of year again – have you made any New Year’s resolutions yet? Here’s a brief list of what I’m hoping to accomplish this year, along with the outcome that is most likely to occur instead.

Read more. Get everyone involved in reading books every night, adults included.

At the very least: Check out books from the library and display them on my coffee table, moving the bookmark along every few days to give the impression I’m reading.

Sleep more. This year, all my kids will get enough sleep. This will be done by enforcing naps on the weekends.

At the very least: I’d like to nap one weekend this year.

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Increase cleanliness. Make sure everyone showers, brushes their teeth and flosses each and every night.

Plan a road trip. Take a cross-country family road trip, learning about our great country and enjoying time spent together as a family.

At the very least: Shoot for twice a week. And buy floss.

At the very least: Drive across town to the grocery store without all of us wanting to kill each other by the time we get there.

Eat better. Buy and prepare healthier meals for my family.

At the very least: Have my kids to cook for themselves, and let them serve whatever they want to one another.

Schedule date nights. Plan a weekly date night with my wife.

At the very least: Convince my kids to play for fifteen uninterrupted minutes so my wife and I can have an adult conversation while making dinner.

Exercise more. Get the whole family to increase their physical activity, and maybe sign up for a marathon myself.

At the very least: Increase my exercise beyond just chasing after my kids.

There’s my list. We’ll have to wait and see how it goes, but I have a feeling I already know how this story will end. Happy New Year from my family to yours!

January 2016 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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Getting Schooled

A look at the variety of local educational options available to students today WORDS BY // MAGGIE LOISELLE

If you’re like many parents, the school you attended growing up was determined by which school bus arrived at your neighborhood stop.

Today’s kids however, have a vast array of academic choices open to them – with new technology changing how the term “classroom” is even defined.

The Cincinnati area is rich with educational options to suit virtually any type of student. To help parents determine which learning environment would best serve their child, here’s a breakdown of the various types of schools to consider.

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PUBLIC SCHOOL Public schools provide the free, universal education envisioned by the Founding Fathers, serving every child and the community at large.

Advocates tout the affordability, accessibility and diversity of public schools, while the large size of many districts also gives students more opportunities in specialized academics and athletics.

Cincinnati Public Schools’ Strive Together effort taps outside resources to create Community Learning Centers and Family Resource Centers at the school level, focusing not only on academics but also health, dental and social services for students and their families. For families seeking a unique learning atmosphere, CPS offers several Montessori

schools, along with others featuring the Greek-derived Paideia teaching method.

CHARTER SCHOOL Charter schools are publicly funded but independently run, which advocates say gives teachers more freedom to innovate, adjusting lessons and schedules to best meet students’ needs.

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Many schools also focus on a theme, such as Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), language immersion or performing arts. Charter schools must adhere to promises made in the school’s charters when it comes to academic achievement and financial stability.

Alliance Academy of Cincinnati, a K-8 charter school in Evanston, zeroes in on personal responsibility with its Moral Focus curriculum, helping students learn about wisdom, gratitude, self-control and perseverance. Each classroom also signs a social contract. “With qualified teachers, a strong leadership team and individualized learning plans, students are set up for success,” says Katie Baker, a rep for the school.

Other local charter schools: Orion Charter Academy, TCP World Academy, Hamilton County Mathematics and Science Academy

PRIVATE SCHOOL Private schools have long been associated with academic rigor, committed teachers and elite athletics. Today’s modern private schools also tout small class sizes, stellar resources and specialized education options for different learning styles. A focus on common goals and values, along with strong parent engagement, create a family environment that promotes achievement and good citizenship, advocates say.

At Union Pointe Academy, housed in the Florence Baptist Church at Mt. Zion in Florence, Ky., a multisensory approach appeals to a diverse set of learning styles – from gifted students to students whose dyslexia has made large, traditional classrooms a struggle.

Program Director Sheila Levi, a retired public school teacher, describes UPA as a “very different-looking school” where children learn in the method and at the rate that works best for them. “We’re asked often, ‘How can you be

a school for all of these things?’ We believe that all children can learn and that every child is gifted in some way,” she says. “Our job is focusing on the talents and strengths that these kids have while addressing the specific areas of need for each student.”

Other local private schools: An extensive listing of Cincinnati area private schools can be found on the Cincinnati Parent website at www. cincinnatiparent.com/ cincinnati-private-schoolguide.

BLENDED SCHOOL A relative newcomer to the education landscape, blended schools offer a mix of online courses and in-person classroom instruction. For academically advanced students, this method gives the option for accelerated learning, while the shortened time spent in the classroom accommodates students with jobs or the practice schedules of elite athletes. The experience of learning how to manage one’s time effectively in this educational setting also prepares students for college life, say proponents.

Over the past few years, Purcell Marian, a Catholic school in the East Walnut Hills neighborhood, has gradually introduced blended learning one subject at a time at the high school level, creating dedicated spaces for instruction in math and English, with areas for social studies, science and religion coming soon. The flexibility has allowed advanced students to graduate with more college credits and all students to

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reach toward higher-level concepts, says Tammy Peeden Reasoner, PM Director of Marketing and Communications. “Blended learning ‘blends’ the best of traditional teaching with the innovation of technological resources,” she says. “Students can learn more at their own pace by allowing faster learners the opportunity to explore topics on a deeper level, and slower students that may need additional time on a concept the opportunity to master it before moving on.”

ONLINE SCHOOL Online schools offer the option to learn from home, appealing to students who are ahead or behind academically and those who may have struggled with the social aspects of the traditional classroom setting. Led by statecertified teachers, students log in to complete classes on a flexible schedule that works for them.

Swapping pencils for a keyboard, students at Ohio Virtual Academy, an accredited online public community school serving children statewide, have their choice of core courses, as well as more than 150 electives. Offline, students can take part in activities, clubs and field trips. Teachers are available via email, in the virtual classroom, by phone or face to face.

“With online learning, students are not pushed to move ahead to another lesson if they aren’t ready,” says Kristin Stewart, OHVA Senior Head of School. “They are also able to move ahead when ready, without having to wait for a classroom of students to complete the assigned work.”

Other local online schools: Ohio Connections Academy, Electronic Classroom of Tomorrow (ECOT), Barren Academy of Virtual and Expanded Learning (BAVEL)

BOARDING SCHOOL The Midwest is home to a number of prestigious boarding schools. While not a common option, advocates promote the small class sizes, highly qualified faculty and unique environment that encourages personal responsibility and community involvement.

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The 400 boarding and day high school students Western Reserve Academy in Hudson, Ohio enjoy a 190-acre campus with state-of-the-art science labs, a faculty-student innovation hub and a tight knit, supportive community, says Bri Reagan, WRA Associate Director of Communications. “Boarding school class sizes are small, allowing for more personalized learning and thoughtful attention,” she says. “Our students are uninhibited to learn, grow, try, engage and make a difference.”

Other Ohio boarding schools: Andrews Osborne Academy, Grand River Academy (boys), Olney Friends School

HOMESCHOOL While religious reasons often prompt families to choose homeschooling as an educational option, a growing number of parents are turning to homeschool for the flexible schedule, personalized learning opportunities and focus on family time it

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offers. Advocates also promote the financial benefits of homeschooling and its ability to allow students to pursue special interests. Be advised, homeschooling requirements vary greatly from state to state.

In Ohio, homeschooling families must provide 900 hours of instruction per year on specific subjects, including language, geography, math, science, health and music. The person providing the instruction must have a high school diploma or the equivalent, and they are required to notify the superintendent in the child’s home district of the family’s decision to homeschool, providing an assessment of the student’s work each year. More on Ohio’s homeschooling requirements can be found at www. education.ohio.gov/Topics/QualitySchool-Choice/Home-Schooling.

Kentucky requires homeschooling families to provide a minimum of 1,062 hours of instruction in no less than 170 days on reading, writing, spelling, grammar, history, math, science and

civics. Families are also required to notify the superintendent in the child’s home district of their intent to homeschool and to record each student’s progress in “all subjects taught at the same intervals as the local public schools.” More on Kentucky’s homeschooling requirements can be found at http://education. ky.gov/federal/fed/pages/home- school.aspx.

The opportunity to match a student to the educational environment where he or she can truly thrive is greater than it has ever been. The homework you put in as a parent, researching and interviewing prospective schools, can pay great dividends not only in your child’s academic success, but their personal and social growth as well.

With so many educational options available, it can be difficult to determine which environment may be best for your child. Experts recommend parents consider these factors when making their decision:

Academics: What are the short-term and long-term goals or requirements you have for your child’s education?

Learning style: Does your child have a learning or behavior challenge that would be bested suited to a specific type of program or educational setting?

Logistics: How will cost, financial aid, location, etc. influence what schools you can consider?

Social OPPORTUNItIES: What options do the schools you are considering have for clubs, sports and other extracurricular activities for kids to connect?

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>> How this important document relates to your older student << WORDS BY // LAUREN LAWSon

If you are a parent of a student with special needs, you know how the IEP acts as the blueprint for the support your child receives in school. The IEP is often cited as a “living document” that should change as a child moves through the educational system.

How does this happen as a student transitions out of elementary school?

Making adjustments Dr. Victoria Zascavage and Dr. Kathleen Winterman, Associate Professors of Special Education at Xavier University, say that the quality of a student’s IEP actually remains the same as he or she moves from elementary school to middle school.

Although some elements will be modified, the nature of a student’s IEP remains intact.

So what changes or adjustments can a student or family expect?

In middle school, a major goal revolves around a student having a successful transition into their new environment.

In elementary school, children typically work in one classroom with one teacher.

move throughout the school to work in multiple classrooms with multiple teachers.

According to Drs. Zascavage and Winterman, the middle school child with special needs may be served within the framework of a number of diverse programs and services.

Alycia Champion, a Parent Resource Coordinator for the Forest Hills School District, explains that, “Section 1 of the IEP includes a future planning statement at all ages, however, as our students enter transition age these statements become even more important.”

Any modifications that are made to a student’s IEP involve the input of teachers, parents and special ed teachers to make sure these modifications help the student be successful.

As a child approaches graduation, goals are set in place that relate to life after high school, i.e. training, education, employment and independent living skills if appropriate.

Getting involved in the process

In middle school, kids now

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Parents and educators who openly communicate with each other can collaboratively identify where a student’s skills are lacking and work together to implement solutions.

Both the parents and the intervention specialist assigned to the student should be vigilant that the accommodations listed on the IEP are pervasive in the classroom, in testing situations and on state assessments, say Drs. Zascavage and Winterman.

Helping a child learn to advocate for themselves is also an important goal. Parents can encourage their middle school child to voice his or her opinions at home and to discuss how they make decisions. It is important that the parent reinforce their child’s ability to self-advocate as middle school students are expected to attend their IEP meeting and give their input.

Parents can also help their student by extending the goals their child has at school into their home life. Drs. Zascavage and Winterman say that when the same behavior and academic expectations as specified on the IEP are present at home as in school, this consistency will help lay the foundation for the student’s success in high school and life after graduation.

As your student makes the move from elementary to middle school, don’t hesitate to discuss any questions or concerns you have with school staff. Your ongoing input, as well as your child’s, will help make this transition as smooth as possible.

STEM education Ta k i n g a dva n tage o f t h i s grow i n g t re n d w i t h C IN C INNA T I a r e a p r o g r a m s WORDS BY // MICHELLE SHIRK

If you’re currently raising school-aged kids, you’ve probably been hearing about the importance of STEM education. Read on to learn why this new trend is taking off and how your kids can get in on the action.

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industry has a demand for workers who have high levels of STEM competencies,” Miller says.

While elementary school students aren’t thinking about career paths yet, the push to introduce STEM programming early on comes with the hope that these types of activities will spark, and keep, kids’ interest. According to the National Center for STEM Elementary Education, 1/3 of students have lost interest in science by the time they reach 4th grade. By 8th grade, nearly 1/2 of students have lost interest in science or decided it is irrelevant to their education/future plans. In short, Miller says, “If you wait until middle school or high school to introduce your child to STEM, [it] may be too late to capture their interest.”

The “what” and “why” of STEM The abbreviation “STEM” refers to four subjects – science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Some programs may modify the “STEM” acronym to suit their specific needs, for example STEAM programs include “A” for art or sometimes agriculture. Alicia Miller, Owner of Sylvan Learning of Cincinnati, believes the STEM trend in education reflects the country’s need for workers in these professions. “According to Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce (CEW), STEM occupations are among the fastest growing fields in our economy.” In addition, the demand for strong STEM skills extends far beyond traditional STEM fields. “Virtually every

What to look for in a STEM program Today’s parents may feel like they see the STEM label everywhere they look. But what are the hallmarks of a high quality STEM program or activity? It’s more than just enrolling in a math or science class.

Miller says hands-on activities and collaborative exercises are best. When kids are empowered to work on projects that excite them, their interest levels go up.

“Watch your child’s eyes light up as [she] learns how to build a bridge that actually supports weight or a robot that moves based on [her] commands,” says Miller.

“When they realize what they can do, that self-confidence hopefully carries them forward in their learning journey. They’ll never look at a bridge or robot the same way again.”

Local opportunities Are you convinced of the value of STEM education? You don’t have to go far to find a great program or activity for your child. Start by investigating these Cincinnati area options:

*Check in with your child’s school. They may already offer classes, clubs or events focused on STEM education that your child can participate in. *Plan a museum day. Visit The Cincinnati Museum Center’s special exhibit “The Art of the Brick,” now through May 1st. Kids can view more than 100 Lego masterpieces, then design their own in interactive “Brickopolis.” Or, sign your child up for a Lego Spring Break camp.

Daily themes include “Minecraft,” “Robots,” and “Star Wars.” Find complete details at www.cincymuseum.org/exhibits/art-ofthe-brick.

*Register for a class. Sylvan Learning of Cincinnati offers STEM programs for 1st through 5th graders in robotics, coding and more. Classes meet at after school, on weekends and during the summer at locations in Anderson, Crestview Hills, Northgate and West Chester. *Get competitive. Is your child ready to show off his STEM skills? iSPACE, a non-profit serving the Greater Cincinnati area, hosts FIRST Robotics programs for kids ages 6 through 18. Middle and high schoolers might also consider joining a Science Olympiad team to compete in events ranging from “Disease Detective” to “Bridge Building.” Visit www.ispacescience.org to learn more.

*Make time for play. With the appropriate toys, your child can develop STEM skills right at home. If you’re not sure what to buy, Project Lead the Way releases an annual list of “Super STEM Gifts.” Past suggestions have included Magna-Tiles, GoldieBlox sets and robotics kits.

Look for the current list at www.pltw.org.

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HEA LT H & W E L LN ES S

WORDS BY // Ashley Albertson, MSW, LISW, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital

Multiple Kids, Individual Personalities Recognizing unique identities among many siblings When you’re the parent of multiple children, you may wonder if you’re doing enough to help each of them develop into the unique individuals they are meant to become. Kids need to know that you recognize what makes them special, so here a few suggestions to aid you in that process.

“My parents just let us, be us. Whatever we were interested in they let us pursue, like sports and gymnastics. They let us develop our own style, like our clothes.

They encouraged us to pursue our own dreams.”

– Sarah, 35

Be open to new ideas about parenting

Let kids express themselves No two children are alike, so celebrate their differences! Allow them to express what makes them distinct from their siblings. Give them opportunities to pursue their own interests and express their ideas freely. Children begin to learn about themselves and their world through this type of exploration.

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that pressure to be responsible and set a good example caused me to make some decisions that I really regretted, because I was afraid to disappoint my family.”

– Anonymous

It can be easy to assign a child a role like “the responsible one,” “the tomboy” or “the baby” but these labels place expectations on kids they shouldn’t have. Even seemingly positive labels can interfere with a child’s ability to develop an identity all their own.

Parenting is a continual learning process, and it’s understandable that we might try to apply the same approach that was successful with a first child to subsequent children. However, different kids can require different parenting styles. Avoid comparing kids and instead try to really understand each child’s individual strengths and weaknesses.

“I was the oldest, and growing up I always knew that I was expected to be ‘the responsible one’ and ‘set a good example’ for my siblings. When I got a little older

“I think it’s so important to really try to figure out each child, get inside their head, listen to them, and to remember that fair does not always mean equal. Each child is

Avoid labeling

different, will have different needs, and will need to be parented differently. What works for one kid, might not for another.”

– Becky, mom of four children

Make time for individual attention Carve out special time for each child to spend with them one-on-one. Learn about what they’re doing, what they’re thinking, what gets them excited and what challenges they’re having. Let them see that you know who they are as individuals outside of your family dynamic. They will benefit from this type of interaction and so will you.

“Every morning before school I would get up early to spend time with my mom who was getting ready to go to work. I learned how to do my hair and makeup by watching my mother every morning. It was a great way to have some ‘girl time’ with my mom.”

– Alissa, 28

Tips to try today • Have kids take turns doing tasks with mom and dad like helping to cook, doing household projects or running errands to add in some individual time spent together with each child.

• Give each child an opportunity to “be in charge” by choosing a dinner option or picking the television show your family will watch that evening. These simple choices allow kids of different ages to contribute to the family in their own unique way.

• Have each family member share their highs and lows of the day at dinnertime. This allows each child to “have the floor” while others listen. This ritual also lets kids practice their conversation skills and encourages them to care for and support each other.

Life is busy in a household with multiple children, but each one deserves to be recognized for what makes them unique. Remember to celebrate the individual differences of all your children and the richness that individuality brings to your family.

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Family New Year’s resolutions fun ideas to get 2016 off to a great start!

WORDS BY // SARAH BRICKER-HUNT

T

he start of the new year is the perfect time to think about a few goals for your family. Is exercise a priority this year? How about finding a volunteer activity to do together? Maybe exposing your kids to the arts is on the top of your list. What about having your family connect with nature (instead of their screens)? Fortunately, our area has plenty of ways to make a resolution that is fun and easy to do. Take a look at these ideas for some inspiration!

Try another option at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. Christa Skiles, Director of Marketing and Communications, says “In a world in which so many of our experiences are passive and take place on a screen of some kind, theatre remains a shared experience.” Skiles suggests including upcoming main stage programs like To Kill a Mockingbird on your family’s list of 2016 plans, and keeping an eye out for Playhouse in the Park family-friendly tours that bring Playhouse productions to local arts and community centers.

Focus on fitness Get your kids excited about exercise by finding an activity you can all enjoy. For example, make it a mission to visit every park in your county, or vow to hike around the city exploring a new section each time.

Take the action indoors with a membership at one of the many YMCAs around town.

With facilities all over the region and new programs always being added, there is sure to be some type of fitness match for every member of your family.

Find a way to give back Is this the year you want to make volunteering a bigger priority for your family? There are many local organizations that welcome kids as volunteers. Opportunities for youth volunteers exist at the Behringer-Crawford Museum, Cincinnati Nature Center, Gorman Heritage Farm, HEARTT Animal Refuge, Keep Cincinnati Beautiful…the possibilities go on and on. (For a complete list of area volunteer opportunities, visit our guide on Cincinnati Parent at http:// cincinnatiparent.com/volunteeropportunities-for-kids-in-cincinnati/.

Other ways to volunteer could involve walking or running a 5k for a cause that is meaningful to your family, picking up litter in your neighborhood or favorite

28 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // January 2016

Take in more music and dance park or writing letters to service members that are deployed. Kids might also enjoy making cards for hospitalized children through an organization called Cards for Hospitalized Kids (www.cardsfor hospitalizedkids.com).

Take in more local art Jill Dunne, Director of Marketing and Communications at the Cincinnati Art Museum suggests planning to visit at least four times in 2016: “One visit to play with the kids in the interactive Rosenthal Education Center, one for date night at Art After Dark, one to bring the grandparents to check out the newly updated Cincinnati Wing and at least one more visit to check out our amazing traveling exhibitions.”

The Art Museum also offers a rotating schedule of family-friendly programming throughout the year.

The Taft Museum of Art is another potential source for fine arts fun in 2016.

Emma Caro, Director of PR and Marketing, says families can plan to attend the museum’s hands-on 3rd Sunday Funday programs throughout the year, including a superhero themed program in January.

If exposing your kids to live music is on your list of resolutions, be sure check out the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, both of which offer family-friendly performances all year long. Megan Berneking, Director of Communications for both organizations, says families should consider the Lollipops Family Concerts that take place on several Saturday mornings throughout the year. “They are the perfect way to introduce kids and grandkids to the joys of orchestral music.”

If your family has an itch to get even more involved with Cincinnati’s musical arts scene, consider Cincinnati Ballet. Ginger Johnson, Director of Academy Operations, says the whole family can get involved with Cincinnati Ballet beyond the organization’s stage productions. “We also offer a variety of dance classes for youth and adults,” Johnson explains. “Our New Year’s resolutions always involve more dancing and we aspire to help families do the same.”

Get back to nature In 2015, The Trust for Public Land ranked Cincinnati’s sprawling park system #7 in the nation in their annual ParkScore survey, and for good reason. Most city residents are within a ten minute walk of a city park. The park district has set aside plenty of space for hiking, picnicking, kayaking, biking, frolicking and more, making it easy to set some nature-influenced goals. Resolve to visit as many city parks as you can this year with your family.

You can also rediscover the Zoo! Michelle Curley, Communications Director at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, suggests families explore the zoo in 2016 in ways they may have never thought about before. For instance, did you know the zoo has several exhibits specifically designed to inspire family learning? Set a goal to check out Jungle Trails this year, where families can “Hang Like an Orang” and challenge one another with the “Big Brains at Work” exhibit.

Making a resolution stick takes commitment from every member of your family, so get the kids together and talk about what they would find fun or interesting to do. Good luck and happy new year!

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HEA LT H & W E L LN ES S - BRANDED CO NTENT

Nutrition and School Success A healthy breakfast is tied to better learning A child’s school attendance and academic performance may be closely linked with what is on their breakfast plate or in their lunch bag, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), feeding a child a healthy breakfast before school has been linked to better memory, better tests scores, better attention span, healthier body weights and improved overall nutrition.

However, researchers have found that it is common for American families to skip breakfast.

Lisa Wright, a certified nurse practitioner in Lebanon, says the obstacle may not just lie in educating parents on the importance of nutrition as much as providing the resources and tools they need to help make it easier.

30 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // January 2016

“Implementing a healthy diet for children is very difficult for many parents, especially when you are busy and preparing a meal is just one more thing on your list,” Ms. Wright says. “Parents really have to plan ahead and, more importantly, choose to start children out on the right foot.”

Parents can follow some of these simple steps outlined by the AAP: Make breakfast part of the schedule. Breakfast can often be seen as another obstacle when trying to get school children out the door on time.

Think through how long it will take children to eat without feeling pressured.

Prepare breakfast the night before. Take time to make things such as hardboiled eggs or fruit salad the night before. Offer items that can be

grabbed on the way out the door if enough time is not allotted.

Make sleep a priority. Children who are wellrested are more likely to sit down for breakfast.

Make sure they are getting the required amount of sleep according to their age.

Look for support at school. Many schools provide breakfast on-site, which can help with a family’s budget and schedule.

For more information on nutrition and learning or to find a Premier HealthNet physician near you, visit www.premierhealthnet.com.

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ARTS & ENR I C H M EN T R ES OUR CES

Arts & Enrichment Guide arts + education 3rd Sunday Fundays

Bring the whole family to the Taft Museum of Art on select third Sundays to explore, create, and play. These free afternoon programs offer great art, kid-sized art info, hands-on fun, and family-friendly performances. Most activities are ongoing, so drop in when you have time and stay as long as you like.

316 Pike Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Phone: (513) 241-0343, Email: taftmuseum@ taftmuseum.org, http://www.taftmuseum.org/

Cincinnati Boychoir The Cincinnati Boychoir is one of the premiere professional boychoirs in the United States.

Located in the urban arts core of Cincinnati at the Aronoff Center for the Arts, the Boychoir reaches approximately 200 young men each year from more than 90 schools in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. Since 1965, the Cincinnati Boychoir has been dedicated to the musical, intellectual, and emotional development of these young men and has served as one of the foremost music education and performance organizations in the region; boys attend weekly rehearsals, retreats, music theory classes, and the annual SongFest Summer Music Camp for Boys at Xavier University.

650 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Contact: Heather Lally, Phone: 513-396-7664, Email: heather.lally@cincinnatiboychoir.org,

cincinnatiboychoir.org

Cincinnati Museum Center Regardless of age, interest or style of learning, we are sure to have a program your child will love. We have group activities like our Scout Programs, Day Camps, Overnights and Birthday Parties, but we also offer smaller enrichment programs like Sprouts Institute, Bright Ideas and Explorers University. Our programming is multi-diciplinary (like us), and focuses on everything from art and culture to science, history and technology. Try one, or all! And remember, Members always get the best deals!

dance

Broadway Bound Dance Academy Broadway Bound Dance Academy is the place for fun and learning all year long! We offer complete dance and tumbling instruction to ages 2yr and above. Reserve your spot today!

10580 Loveland Madeira Rd, Loveland, OH 45140, Phone: 513-774-9474, www.broadway

bounddance.com

1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45203, Phone: (513) 287-7000, www.cincymuseum.org

E rickson Academy of I rish Dance T he Silver Diva Kids love coming to The Silver Diva to create a personalized piece of jewelry! Learn how to hand stamp your name, special date or phrase into metal and then make it into something fun to wear like a necklace, ring or bracelet. Instruction is always free and you just pay for what you make. Great fun activity for ages 6 and up!

Birthday parties too!

9797 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45242, Phone: (513) 873-4561, Email: info@ thesilverdiva.com, https://www.thesilver

diva.com/

Irish dancing classes for pre-schoolers, children and teens. Build confidence, friendships and skills! Beginner classes offered at Main Studio in Linwood and Westwood Studio. Enroll at any time.

Sprung floors, mirrors and parent observation area. Certified by the Irish Dancing Commission, Dublin, Ireland.

673 Wilmer Ave - Suite D, Cincinnati, OH 45226, Contact: Allison Weber Erickson, Phone: 513-232-1366, Email: ericksondance@aol.com,

www.ericksonirishdance.com

M anyet Dance Manyet Dance offers classes for ages two through adult in a variety of dance styles, including ballet, tap, jazz, pointe, tumbling and hip hop. We have daytime and evening classes.

We also offer birthday parties. Winter session starts in February at our new Wilder location!

Locations in Southgate, Highland Heights and Wilder, KY, Phone: 859-781-0061, Email: manyet dance@gmail.com, www.manyetdance.com

music

A ngel’s House of Music Voted Best of the East 2014. Angel’s offer private lessons for Piano, Voice, Guitar and most Instruments. Est. 1996 by Margaret Angel.

Angel’s encourages the love of music while providing quality lessons. Each instructor is college educated in their field.

180 Cemetery Road, Milford, OH 45150, Contact: Margaret Angel, Phone: 513-831-1191, angelshouseofmusic.net

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B aldwin Music E ducation Center Baldwin Music Education Center offers unique, agespecific curriculum taught by degreed and trained group music educators. Classes offered year around for ages 6-months on up. 50+ years of experience, convenient location and family discounts. The oldest, preeminent preschool and group piano program in the city! BMEC believes Every Life Needs Music!

3799 Hyde Park Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45209, Contact: Rachel Kramer, Phone: 513-351-1109, Email: baldwinmusiceducenter@gmail.com,

www.baldwinmusiceducenter.com

Cincinnati Strings Greater Cincinnati’s best violin, viola and cello teachers are now available for lessons in your home, with all the benefits of music school instruction included; including recitals, group classes, and materials. We fit music into your life so your kids can spend more time making music and less time running around town. Our experienced teachers work with students of all ages using a variety of methods, including Suzuki. Call us today!

Cincinnati, OH 45220, Contact: Dominic DeStefano, Phone: 513-400-5570, Email: info@cincinnati strings. com, www.cincinnatistrings.com Specific Category: Violin, Viola and Cello

I ndian Springs Academy of Music Private lesson instruction with professional teachers.

Lessons available for Piano, Voice, Violin, Viola, Cello and Guitar. Summer Camps for Violin, Guitar, Music Theory and History.

9690 Cincinnati–Columbus Road, Cincinnati, OH 45241, Contact: Sheila Vail, Director, Phone: (513) 779-7070, Email: sheilavail@indianspringsacademy. com, www.indian springsacademy.com

R iley School of I rish Music Founded in 1996, the Riley School meets on Saturdays September through May to teach children and adults to play music in the Irish tradition. Classes offered include Fiddle, Flute, Guitar, Irish Harp, Singing, Tin Whistle, and more. Open Houses each quarter for new and prospective students —see website for details.

3718 Eastern Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45226, Phone: (513) 549-3780, rileyirishmusic.com

University of Cincinnati CCM Preparatory Department Study at the only nationally accredited community arts program in the area. CCM Preparatory offers music, theatre arts and dance classes and lessons for all ages and abilities. Lessons in all instruments, voice and composition. Suzuki string and piano lessons for younger students. Performance opportunities include ballet company, Jr. musical program, wind ensembles, string orchestras, brass choir, jazz ensembles, guitar ensemble and recitals. Summer camps for all interests. Visit ccm. uc.edu/prep, email ccmprep@uc.edu or call 513-556-2595 for more information.

PO Box 210236, Cincinnati, OH 45221, Contact: Peggy Grant, Phone: (513)556-2595, Email: grantmj@ ucmail.uc.edu, www.ccm.uc.edu/prep Other Category: Dance, Theatre

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theater

T he Children ’s T heatre of Cincinnati: Learning the craft Learning the Craft offers arts training to children in a variety of formats. The primary objective for these arts integrated classes is to provide students with the tools necessary to become successful adults. Session 2 (January 10-April 2, 2016) registration is now open! Come learn the techniques and principles behind the art of musical theatre (drama, vocal music and dance) from the faculty at The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati. Our classes are for ages 3 to 15 and are held at our brand new facility in Hyde Park!

4015 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati, OH 45227, Phone: 513-569-8080 ext. 10, www.the

childrenstheatre.com

other

Bear Paddle Swim School New and experienced preschool swimmers will enjoy the fun, positive environment at Bear Paddle. Lessons take place in the indoor saltwater pool. New Oakley location opening in January!

9376 Mason Montgomery Rd, Mason, OH 45040, Phone: (513) 285-8855, Email: mason@ bearpaddle.com, Bearpaddle.com

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Brain B alance

W est Chester Academy

Brain Balance Achievement Centers offer a cutting-edge, drug-free approach to help children improve their ability to learn academically, socially and emotionally. We don’t just work with your child’s strengths or compensate for a weakness. We tackle your child’s issue head on, by addressing the root cause at the most fundamental level.

The Academy of Music, Dance, Acting, & Gymnastics in West Chester offers programs for all ages, from the youngest babies in the Music Pups program all the way up to the senior citizens, who recognize the benefits of participation in the arts. Dance classes include competitive and non-competitive ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, Bollywood, Irish Step and more. Music lessons are offered for most instruments and voice. Early childhood options include a variety of age specific dance, music, and gymnastics classes. Week-long summer camps are offered throughout the summer.

12084 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Phone: 513-257-0705, www.brainbalance

centers.com/locations/cincinnati

Specific Category: Special Needs

8107 Market Place Drive, West Chester, OH 45069, Phone: 513-829-2345, http://www.

H ubbard Family Swim School Splash, Play, Learn! Simple steps to lay a foundation of comfort and confidence in the water have earned Hubbard an International reputation for teaching swimming. Our indoor heated pool lets the learning continue year-round.

7900 E. Kemper Rd. (Kids First Sports Complex), Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Kathy Hubbard, Phone: 513.530.0123, Email: Kathy@ hubbardswim.com, www.hubbardswim.com Specific Category: Swimming lessons

westchesteracademy.com

Specific Categories: Acting, Dance, Gymnastics, Music

Y MC A of Greater Cincinnati Offering swimming lessons, fitness classes, dance classes, day and overnight camps, mentoring, a variety of sports programs for all ages! There’s something at the Y for everyone!

12 locations throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, Phone: 513-362-YMCA,

www.myY.org

COMM EN TARY & PAR E N T IN G

WORDS BY // DEB KRUPOWICZ

Ask the Teacher Do-over assignments, AP courses and combatting stress

Q:

I am very surprised that my fifth grade daughter is allowed to re-do assignments, including re-taking tests. I am concerned that she is not seeing the repercussions of failing to prepare in the way she should. Why aren’t teachers letting poor grades stand to allow students to suffer the consequences?

A:

A philosophical shift has occurred in many teachers’ thinking about grades. By allowing or requiring students to re-do assignments, they are insisting that students take responsibility to learn the material completely. This method actually does not let kids off easy. Students whose work does not reflect understanding are expected to revisit the content, meet with teachers and complete more work if needed.

Teachers are also acknowledging that their chosen method of instruction may not have been effective for everyone and that reteaching may be necessary.

The penalty for those children who have thrown an assignment together or who have not studied well is in the loss of their time rather than a lower grade. The outcome of this approach can be a stronger mastery of curriculum content and likely, the subsequent desire by students to do what is necessary the first time around.

Q:

As a high school sophomore, my son is planning to take several AP level classes in his junior and senior year, knowing he will have hours of homework each night. This

36 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // January 2016

will mean cutting back on his extra-curricular activities.

He is convinced that this is necessary to get into a good college. Is this true?

A:

In an effort to motivate the general school population to be prepared for college admission, high school counselors often provide lists of what makes for a strong application. These lists can be overwhelming: challenging coursework, varied extra-curricular activities, demonstrated leadership, inspirational volunteerism, etc. The reality is that while students do need to have a strong college application, they also must have a realistic, healthy sense of balance.

Help your son recognize what he has already accomplished by making a list of his attributes, skills and talents. Show him how to identify the multiple skills he has developed in the variety of activities he has had – not just schoolwork.

This may help him understand the value of

non-academic activity and allow him to justify limiting his course selection.

Are your son’s future aspirations realistic? If he has been a struggling student, he may not be cut out for a very competitive college. If he wants to pursue a demanding major, he may need to do some preliminary course work at a community college before starting down that path. A meeting with the school counselor or a career advisor can provide insight as to a reasonable way to attain his goals rather than pursuing a schedule that may be too tough and possibly discouraging.

Q:

More and more of my friends who have older children are talking about how stressed out their kids are. How can I keep my own children from experiencing this type of anxiety?

A:

You can control the amount of time they have to relax, recharge and rest.

Participation and performance demands have escalated for children. It is not enough to be a Boy Scout, one must try to be an Eagle Scout. Being on the honor roll isn’t sufficient unless accelerated classes are included. Rec sport leagues aren’t good enough, travel teams need to be pursued. These types of expectations lead to busier schedules, less downtime and more anxious kids.

Observe your children carefully to determine if their activities are resulting in more stress than pleasure. Changes in demeanor, complaints about not feeling well and negative comments about themselves can be indicators of stress even if these behaviors surface outside of the context of a particular activity. Although one particular activity may not be the culprit, the cumulative effect of many demanding activities may be too much for a child.

Realize that your son or daughter may be reluctant to give up an activity, not seeing how the time and commitment it requires could be negatively affecting him or her. You will likely be the one who insists that something be dropped from their schedule. Your job as a parent however, is to keep your child’s overall best interest at heart, even if your decisions are not always popular.

As k the T e ache r // is written by Deb

Krupowicz, a mother of four who holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Deb has over twenty years of experience teaching preschool, elementary and middle school students. Please send your questions to her at asktheteacher @ cincinnatiparent.com.

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ED UCAT I ON RES O UR C ES

Preschool & Education Guide //CHILDCaRE & PRESCHOOL Chai Tots Early Childhood Center Academic excellence via a unique blend of Jewish and Montessori education offering strong academics, stressing life skills, interpersonal relationship skills and nurturing a love for life-long learning. Individualized curriculum customized for each student, expansive naturally lit rooms, low student ratio. Specials include yoga, music, Hebrew, dance, art and Tae Kwon Do. Flexible schedules, before and aftercare, web cams and after-school enrichment available.

Limited space - now enrolling!

7587 Central Parke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040, Phone: (513)234-0600, www.ChaiTots.com, Ages/Grades: Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Kindergarten (6 weeks-6 years), Enrollment: 60

Children, Inc. Early Education and Care (including Montessori and traditional curriculum) offered at multiple sites throughout Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati. Nationally accredited and multi-STAR quality rated. Generous tuition assistance is available for qualifying families based on income and family size.

Phone: (859) 431-2075, www.childreninc.org, Grades: Infant through 12 years

Cornerstone Church Preschool A Step Up To Quality award winning preschool committed to nurturing the whole child socially, emotionally, cognitively, physically, and spiritually. CCP provides high quality early childhood education based on sound knowledge of child development and appropriate practices.

Daily lessons include Bible stories, language skills, emergent math, discovery opportunities, music, creative art and more!

7600 Princeton Glendale Road, Liberty Township, OH 45011, Contact: Denise Taylor, Director, Phone: (513) 874-7870, Email: preschool@cornerstonechurch.org,

www.cornerstonechurch.org

Creative Tots, Mason Creative Tots has specialized in the private education of Toddler, Preschool and Pre-K children for 20+ years. Our holistic approach allows children the opportunity to learn, explore, play and grow while engaging in the fine arts and Montessori activities. Our modernized curriculum is rich in opportunities to use creativity, solve problems, use language, develop new vocabulary

38 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // January 2016

and reading skills, while engaging in intellectual activities. Enrichment Programs: Spanish, Music, Art, Yoga and Science.

6408 Thornberry Ct., Mason, OH 45040, Contact: Emilie Parry, Phone: 513-770-6776, Email: creativetotsmason@gmail.com, www. creativetotsmason.com, Grades: Toddler: 18 months-3 years, Preschool: 3-4 years; Pre-K: 4-5 years

The Kinder Garden Schools 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. Blue Ash: 10969 Reed Hartman Highway, Blue Ash, OH 45242, Phone: 791-4300; West Chester: 5900 West Chester Road, West Chester, OH 45069; Phone: 874-3100, www.Kinder GardenSchool.com, Grades: 6 weeks through kindergarten, Enrollment: Please call the school 791-4300 or email Tami Lanham at tami@ kindergardenschool.com.

Redeemer Preschool Redeemer Preschool offers a part-day preschool experience for children in a Christian setting.

Toddlers through pre-kindergarten classes are available. Special activities include Spanish, Music and Chapel. Open House Dates: December 1st, 6:30-8:00pm and January 9th, 10:00-NOON. 2944 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: (513)533-5980, Email: rpsdirector03@gmail. com, Redeemerpreschoolhydepark.com, Grades: 2 1/2 - 5 years, Enrollment: 90

YMCA of Greater Cincinnati The YMCA of Greater Cincinnati offers state licensed before and after school care at over 85 locations throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

1105 Elm Street, Cincinnnati, OH 45202, Contact: Trish Kitchell, VP Youth Development, Phone: 513-362-YMCA, Fax: 513-651-3540, Email: tkitchell@MyY.org, www.MyY.org, Grades: Ages 3-12, Enrollment: Stop by any YMCA of Greater Cincinnati location or check with your local school district.

//MONTESSORI Central Montessori Academy Authentic Montessori environment, serving preschool through 6th grade. Small class sizes allow each student to progress at an individual pace. Part-time preschool and extended day are available. Our school is a place of discovery, curiosity, respect and enthusiasm. Come take a tour and see for yourself. Visit our open house January 31st 12:00 - 2:00 pm.

1904 Springdale Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231, Contact: Kristin Patterson, Phone: 513-742-5800, Fax: 513-742-5870, Email: info@ centralmontessoriacademy.com, www.Central MontessoriAcademy.com, Grades: PreschoolGrade 6. Enrollment: 100

Children’s Meeting House Montessori School An authentic Montessori school program resting on 8 acres. Extraordinary and rigorous hands-on learning inside and outside of the classrooms creating life long learners, critical thinkers and passionate leaders.

927 O’Bannonville Road, Loveland, OH 45140, Contact: Casey Reed, Director, Phone: 513-6834757, Email: reed@cmhschool.com, www. cmhschool.com, Grades: Preschool through Sixth grade, Enrollment: 160

SKIDADDLES Skidaddles offers convenient, flexible, reliable care without reservations. Drop by days, evenings and weekends for a few hours or all day. Feel confident knowing your children will have fun while learning from a qualified staff in a safe and clean environment.

Florence: 8660 Bankers Street, Florence, KY 41042, Phone: 859-647-7529, MasonL 5939 Deerfield Blvd Suite 104, Mason, OHIO 45040, Phone: 513-204-3482, www.skidaddles.com

Country Hills Montessori Providing programs for 3 to K. Small, individualized classes with low student-teacher ratios, under the guidance of Montessori certified teachers, in an inter-generational environment.

Multiple Locations in Eastgate, Oakley, Harrison and West Chester Ohio and in Ft. Thomas KY. Visit chmschools.com for all location addresses & phones.

Contact: Susan Schreiber, Owner, Email: susan@ chmschools.com, www.chmschools.com/, Grades: 3 - K

The Good Shepherd Catholic Montessori Located just 1/2 mile north of Mariemont Square, GSCM is a unique Catholic Montessori school where each child can achieve his or her full potential in academics, faith and life. Set on a beautiful12-acre campus, GSCM features dynamic, nurturing Montessori teachers, individualized learning and self-paced acceleration. 3, 4 or 5 day preschool options, full day Kindergarten, and aftercare available.

Spanish program beginning at age 3, unparalleled faith formation with the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, art, music, dance and drama enrichment are just few of reasons families love GSCM. Students score 36% higher than national average and 88% better on HS entrance exams.

Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:12 4460 Berwick Street, Cincinnati, 513-271-4171, www.gscmontessori.org, Grades: 3-year olds through grade 8, including full-day Kindergarten, Enrollment: 200

The New School Montessori Centrally located and surrounded by wooded play yards and gardens, students benefit from a nurturing environment where Montessoricredentialed staff support high academic and personal achievement. Full-day, half-day and part-time AMS and ISACS accredited programs with healthy lunches included in tuition.

3 Burton Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229, Contact: Ceara Comstock, Phone: (513)2817999, Email: ceara.c@newschoolmontessori. com, www.newschoolmontessori.com, Grades: 3-year-olds through Grade 6, Enrollment: 125

// NON–PUBLIC Bethany School Bethany School is an independent preparatory school where students experience an appreciation for many cultures. Laptop computers, on-line grading, a dynamic music program, rigorous curriculum, and a variety of extracurricular programs provide a truly extraordinary educational environment.

555 Albion Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45246, Contact: Teri Mauntel, Phone: (513)771-2462, www.bethanyschool.org, Grades: Grades: K – 8th grade, Enrollment: 250

CINCINNATI HILLS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY CHCA’s college-prep curriculum sparks creativity and fuels mastery. CHCA’s culture of vigorous inquiry and persistent effort develops agile, innovative thinkers. As they wrestle with timeless, essential questions, students strengthen their minds and their faith.

11525 Snider Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Natalie Pfister, Enrollment Director, Phone: (513)247-0900, Email: admissions@ chca-oh.org, www.chca-oh.org, Grades: Preschool 3 - Grade 12, Enrollment: 1350

GUARDIAN ANGELS SCHOOL

St. Ursula Villa

Guardian Angels School was named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence in 2007 and continues to lead the way in education by providing programs and employing teaching strategies that are engaging and challenging for all students. Every day we foster the development of the whole child in a value-enriched environment. Visit our Open House January 31 from 1-3pm at the school!

An extraordinary family atmosphere and Christ-centered spirit of St. Angela Merici cultivates independent learners who achieve their potential through small classes, individualized instruction, and nurturing of the whole child. Program offerings begin with Toddler/2-year-old and Traditional or Montessori preschool continuing through Junior High, recognized for outstanding high school preparation.

6539 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45230, Phone: 513.624.3141, www.gaschool. org /, Grades: K through 8

Rockwern Academy Rockwern Academy is a premiere Jewish day school focused on academic excellence since 1952. Rockwern Academy, formerly known as Yavneh Day School, is a community of learners where students, families and teachers join together to ensure that every individual child is free to rise to challenges and soar, academically and personally. Rockwern Academy has created a culture of excellence, reflected by our teachers, programs, curriculum and our commitment to fostering a love of Jewish life and learning.

8401 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, OH 45236, Phone: 513-984-3770, Email: info@ rockwernacademy.org, www.rockwernacademy. org, Grades: 18 months - 8th Grade, Enrollment: 210

The Seven Hills School An award-winning Independent, non-sectarian and co-educational school serving students two years through grade 12 on two campuses. An intellectually vibrant environment encourages personal attention and the average class size is 15. Educating the whole child with a college-prep, 21st century curriculum.

Hillsdale Campus - 5400 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati; Doherty Campus - 2726 Johnstone Place, Cincinnati, Phone: 513-728-2400, www.7hills.org, Grades: Pre-K through 12

ST. GERTRUDE SCHOOL Saint Gertrude School offers academic excellence in the Dominican tradition: preaching Truth, practicing virtue, and loving one another in Christ. Students from 21 school districts. IOWA testing ranked 4th among 90 Cincinnati Catholic grade schools. Aftercare, outdoor classroom, STEM, Rosary Procession, household intergrade leadership, Latin, professionally coached musical theater, extracurriculars.

6543 Miami Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45243, Contact: Elaine Nolte, Assistant Principal, Phone: 513-561-8020, stgertrudesch.org, Enrollment: 338

3660 Vineyard Place, Cincinnati, OH 45226, Contact: Marta Runnels, Phone: 513-871-7216 x 2101, Email: m.runnels@stursulavilla.org, www.stursulavilla.org, Grades: 2-years-old through 8th grade, Enrollment: 465

//SPECIaL NEEDS Brain Balance Brain Balance Achievement Centers offer a cutting-edge, drug-free approach to help children improve their ability to learn academically, socially and emotionally. We don’t just work with your child’s strengths or compensate for a weakness. We tackle your child’s issue head on, by addressing the root cause at the most fundamental level.

12084 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Phone: 513-257-0705, www.brainbalance

centers.com/locations/cincinnati

Springer School and Center For more than 40 years, Springer School and Center has empowered students with learning disabilities to lead successful lives. Springer offers a day school for students ages 6-14 and outreach programs and learning disability resources for students, parents and teachers in the Greater Cincinnati area. The Springer Experience. Success Changes Everything.

2121 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: Carmen Mendoza, Admissions Director, Phone: 513 871-6080 ext. 211, Fax: 513 871-6428, Email: cmendoza@springer-LD. org, www.springer-LD.org, Grades: 1 through 8, Enrollment: 200

Skyward Academy Specialized education for students with a variety of learning challenges. Academic or behavioral focus - parent choice. Full and part time school day options, home based or offsite services.

7121 Plainfield Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45236, Contact: Melissa Amrein, Phone: 513-6008476, Email: office@skywardacademy.com, www.skywardacademy.com, Grades: K thru high school graduation

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January 2016 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // DECEMBER 2015

DA I LY EV EN TS

daily calendar {January 2016} FRI 01

SAT 03

Commitment Day Festival & Fun Run Start the New Year off on the right foot – literally – by joining thousands of others for a nationwide 5K Fun Run and Walk. Continue the celebration by inviting all of your family and friends for a weekend filled with entertaining events and activities for everyone. Yep – that’s right, everyone in your community is invited!

Cincinnati Bengals vs.

Baltimore Ravens Cheer on the Bengals in their last game of the season!

Time: 10 a.m., Location: Life Time Fitness, Mason, OH, http://www.commitmentday.com/

TUES 05

ohio/deerfield-township/

SAT 02 First Family Saturday: High Style Family-friendly performances, artist demonstrations, storytelling, scavenger hunts, tours, and hands-on art making activities to accompany the Museum’s High Style exhibit.

Time: 12-4 p.m., Location: The Cincinnati Art Museum, http://www.cincinnatiartmuseum.

org/art/exhibitions/upcoming-exhibitions/ details/1830-high-style, Phone: 513-721-

http://www.bengals.com/schedule/seasonschedule.html , Phone: 513-621-8383

Fly with Us on National Bird Day! It’s National Bird Day! Let’s honor our feathered friends by reading some delightful tales about them! They’re sure to bring some smiles -- and, what’s better than that on a January day? We’ll add to the fun by creating a very special bird project that will sure to be refrigerator worthy! $2/child, call to reserve a spot.

Best for ages 3-5.

Time: 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Location: Blue Manatee Bookstore, http://www.bluemanateebooks. com/home/activatees.html , Phone: 513-7312665

WEDS 06 Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival Oldest continuing festival of Christmas season.

Featuring cast of more than 200 people dressed in 14th century English attire.

Time: Shows at 2:30 p.m. each day, Location: Christ Church Cathedral, http://www.

boarsheadfestival.com/index.shtml

Cinderella Family friendly musical! What do you get when you combine a nearsighted bookworm heroine, two fabulously self-absorbed stepsisters, one devilishly diva stepmother, along with a self-empowering Well-Wisher? A fun spin on the classic fairy tale that demonstrates being smart is true beauty! When the King pressures his romantically challenged son to choose a bride from hundreds of “applicants,” a cross-country tour of the kingdom ensues to reunite a missing sneaker with its rightful owner.

Time: Final two shows on Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., Location: Ensemble Theatre, http://www.ensemblecincinnati.org/ index.php/shows/ella, Phone: 513-421-3555

Time: 10:30 a.m., Location: Brazee Street Studios, http://www.brazeestreetstudios.com/ products/pet-portrait, Phone: 513-321-0206

Time: 1 p.m., Location: Paul Brown Stadium,

ARTS (2787)

SAT 02 – SUN 03

drawings for inspiration! No experience necessary. Ages 6 and up.

STEAM Team Dream it! Build it! Create it!. Children ages 6-12 are welcome to participate in fun and engaging Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math activities. Each week will be a new and exciting activity to achieve! On the 2nd Wednesday of the month the STEAM Team will take a trip to the MakerSpace on the 2nd floor.

Space is limited to the first 15 participants.

Time: 4-4:45, Location: Main Library, http:// programs.cincinnatilibrary.org/evanced/lib/ eventcalendar.asp, Phone: 513-369-6900

FRI 08 Let it Snow(flake) Make a snowflake to decorate your home and windows!

Winter Walk for Families Bundle up and join us for an easy amble for families through the trails of Rowe Woods during the winter. What cold-weather discoveries will we make? Warm up afterward with hot chocolate in the Rowe Visitor Center.

Preregistration required. Free. Nonmembers also pay daily admission.

Time: 1-3 p.m., Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, https://community.cincynature.org/, Phone: 513-831-1711

SAT 09 – SUN 10 KOI Cavalcade of Customs Car Show The annual KOI Cavalcade of Customs Car Show brings hundreds of the coolest custom cars, hotrods, motorcycles, trucks, and more to the floors of the Duke Energy Convention Center in downtown Cincinnati, OH. The show also features special guest celebrity appearances, special events, activities, contests, great KOI deals, good food, and tons of fun.

Time: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. on Saturday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sunday. Location: Duke Energy Convention Center, http://www.koiautoparts.

com/cavalcade/

TUES 12 Family Movie Night Have a movie night at the library. Popcorn and drinks are on us!

Time: 5-7 p.m., Location: Elmwood Place Branch, http://programs.cincinnatilibrary.org/ evanced/lib/eventcalendar.asp, Phone: 513-369-4452

Time: 3-4 p.m., Location: Westwood Branch,

http://programs.cincinnatilibrary.org/ evanced/lib/eventcalendar.asp, Phone:

513-369-4474

SAT 09 Pet Portrait Do you have a family dog? Three cats at home?

Celebrate your favorite furry loved ones by creating a fused glass pet portrait, or one for all your animals at home! Students will design and create their own pet portrait as a hanging fused glass piece. Feel free to bring photos or

Growing Up a Farm Kid: Staying Warm Meet our farm animals and learn how they stay warm in the winter months! For children ages 2–5 accompanied by an adult. $10/child + one adult, $5/additional adult; register by 1/10.

Time: 9:30-11 a.m., Location: Winton Woods/ Parky’s Farm, http://www.greatparks.org/ calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

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WEDS 13

Sun 17

All About Orion He’s big, he’s bright, and he’s high in the sky every winter. Orion, the most recognizable constellation takes center stage and you can learn more about him in the fun class for beginners. Astronomer and co-host of PBS’ Star Gazer, Dean Regas will talk about Orion’s stars, myths, hidden secrets, and new discoveries. Viewing through the historic telescope is included (weather permitting). $15 per person; $12 for Observatory members. To register, call 513-321-5186.

3rd Sunday Fundays Theme is “Superheroes Unite!” Come for a free afternoon of supercharged fun!

Time: 7 p.m., Location: Cincinnati Observatory Center, http://www.

cincinnatiobservatory.org/publicevents/ calendar-3/, Phone: 513-321-5186

FRI 15 Zak Morgan Zak Morgan returns to the Fitton Center! With a background in children’s literature plus a GRAMMY nomination for his kids’ songs, Zak Morgan brings all of his life experiences and a simple delight in words and music to his live performances. His interactive concerts are warm, full of humorous wordplay and fun for all ages. Zak displays a passion for creating music that treats children as intelligent and creative. He approaches each song as a separate musical adventure.

Time: 7:30 p.m., Location: Fitton Center for Creative Arts, http://fittoncenter.org/ event-series/fitton-family-fridays/, Phone: 513-863-8873 ext. 110

Time: 1-4 p.m., Location: The Taft Museum of Art, http://www.taftmuseum.org/events/ fundays, Phone: 513-241-0343

MON 18

Aesop’s Classic Fables Madcap Puppets will present Aesop’s Classic Fables the second show of our annual Hats Off Series, at the Cincinnati Art Museum on Saturday, January 16th and Sunday, January 17th at 1:00 & 3:00. Tickets are free for Family level memberships and above. Non-members are $8.

Time: 1 and 3 p.m. on Jan. 16 and 17, Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, http://

www.madcappuppets.com/programs/ where-to-see-a-show.asp, Phone: 513-921-

5965

Lebanon Antique Show Antique dealers from far and wide offer high-quality American and Continental furnishings & decorative arts, textiles, jewelry, primitives, folk art, and fine art from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. Delicious food available on site. Free parking!

Time: Saturday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Location: Warren County Fairgrounds, http://www.wchsmuseum.org/

events/events-10/2016_lebanon_antique_ show_%2B_sale-40, Phone: 513-932-1817

http://cycloneshockey.com/game/2016/01/23/ princess-night

SUN 24

Time: All day; Location: Mariemont Branch, 513-369-4467

Time: 7 p.m., Location: Taft Theatre, http:// tafttheatre.org/events/2016/01/dancing-withthe-stars-live-dancing-all-night-tour, Phone:

http://programs.cincinnatilibrary.org/ evanced/lib/eventcalendar.asp, Phone:

513-232-6220

What is Your Dream?

It’s Martin Luther King Day! This American icon had a dream and moved forward in his pledge of non-violence. How about coming in today to read some stories on MLK and creating our own dream piece? Be prepared to get your hands messy and your brains thinking! Free; best for ages 4-7. Call to reserve a spot.

Time: 2-3 p.m., Location: Blue Manatee Bookstore, http://www.bluemanateebooks. com/home/activatees.html , Phone: 513-7312665

Teen Time- Potato Chip Taste Testing!

You know you love them, but do you know how they were invented? Find out about the invention of the potato chip and decide which brand is the best. Recommended for grades 6 and up.

Time: 3:30-4:30 p.m., Location: Miami Township Branch, http://programs.

cincinnatilibrary.org/evanced/lib/ eventcalendar.asp, Phone: 513-369-6050

FRI 22 Chinese Story Time Join Miss Pei-Jen for some fantastic stories, songs and fun during our Chinese Story Time!

Time: 10:30-11 a.m., Location: Blue Manatee Bookstore, http://www.bluemanateebooks. com/home/activatees.html , Phone: 513-7312665

SAT 23 Linton Music’s Peanut Butter and Jam Sessions: Music Inside Out Joy and sadness are some feelings we hear and explore with music. Join violin, cello and piano on musical adventure.

Time: Shows at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., Location: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Kenwood, http://lintonmusic.org/pbj-

sessions-schedule/

42 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // January 2016

Time: 6:30 p.m., Location: U.S. Bank Arena,

Dancing With The Stars: LIVE! Dancing All Night Tour!

Following back to back sold out tours, Dancing with the Stars: Live! is taking its all new production on the road. Fans of Dancing with the Stars, will be given the opportunity to see their favorite stars dance live in Cincinnati!

Martin Luther King, Jr, Day Scavenger Hunt Children and caregivers can learn about the life and values of Dr. King while searching out a list of items hidden in the library.

WEDS 20 SAT 16 – SUN 17

Princess Night Come dressed up as your favorite princess!

Various photo opportunities available throughout the night.

TUES 26 Frozen Fun Come in from the cold and join us for some indoor frozen fun. We will make our own snow, create a snowstorm in a jar, and build a marshmallow snowman treat. Registration is required.

Time: 4:30-5:30 p.m., Location: Mt. Washington Branch, http://programs.

cincinnatilibrary.org/evanced/lib/ eventcalendar.asp, Phone: 513-369-6033

WEDS 27 Teen Time: Yoga Get your “om” on and start the new year right with yoga instructors Lisa and Brenda and have fun while you’re at it.

Time: 3-4 p.m., Location: College Hill Branch,

http://programs.cincinnatilibrary.org/ evanced/lib/eventcalendar.asp, Phone:

513-369-6036

SAT 30 Cincinnati Cyclones Frozen 5K Run/Walk The Cincinnati Cyclones are very proud to present the Cincinnati Cyclones Frozen 5K Run/ Walk on Saturday, January 30. This unique winter 5K takes you on a 3.1 mile course along the Banks of the Ohio River and through Cincinnati’s Transit Center underneath second street! Join Twister, our Zamboni driver, and thousands of other brave souls as we achieve our New Years resolutions and help the Pink Ribbon Girls in the process.

Time: 9 a.m., Location: U.S. Bank Arena,

http://cycloneshockey.com/5k

ON G O ING EV E N TS

ongoing calendar {January 2016} Holiday Toy Trains Through January 18

Layout features Lionel trains and Plasticville.

More than 250 feet of track. Patrons welcome to operate more than 30 accessories from buttons on layout!

Times: Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdaySaturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Closed Mondays.

Location: Behringer-Crawford Museum, http://

www.bcmuseum.org/index.php?option=com_ content&view=article&id=48&Itemid=107, Phone: 859-491-4003 High Style: Twentieth-Century Masterworks from the Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection Through January 24

High Style traces the evolution of fashion from 1910 through1980 with garments and accessories by the most influential European and American designers of the 20th century, including Schiaparelli, Chanel, Dior, Givenchy, Norell, Scaasi, and Charles James, among others.

The U.S. Bank Ice Rink on Fountain Square is now open for business! Amenities include skate rental, lockers, benches, and concessions options. Cost: $6.00 admission and $4.00 skate rental. Events during the holidays include: Turkey Bowl on Nov. 24; Macy’s Light Up the Square on Nov. 28; Santa Skates: Nov 28 & Nov 29, Dec 5 & 6, Dec 12 & 13, Dec 19 & 20; and New Year’s Eve Blast: Dec 31. Make a family tradition at Fountain Square!

Times vary by month; check website for details., Location: Fountain Square, http://

myfountainsquare.com/event/u-s- bank-icerink-10/, Phone: 513-381-0782

We’re off to see The Wizard of Oz at The Carnegie! Imaginatively reproduced for The Carnegie stage, and impeccably accompanied

by The Kentucky Symphony Orchestra, this classic tale is sure to delight fans both old and young. Based on the hit MGM film, The Wizard of Oz brings out the child in all of us with songs like “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” and “We’re Off to See the Wizard.”

Time: Playing January 21 – 31, 2016. Thursday, Friday & Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 2:00 p.m.; Sundays at 3:00 p.m., Location: The Carnegie, http://www. thecarnegie.com/tickets_theatre.php, Phone: 859-491-2030

Penguin Days January 3 through February 29

www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org/art/ exhibitions/upcoming-exhibitions/ details/1830-high-style, Phone: 513-721-ARTS

The Robot Zoo

Time: Daily through Feb. 29. Check website for hours. Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, http://cincinnatizoo.org/events/ penguin-days/, Phone: 513-281-4700

(2787)

Daily through February 15

January 21 through 31

March to the Cincinnati Zoo and save a waddle of cash! Experience cooler prices and even cooler animals during Penguin Days, with half-price Zoo admission every day and special animal encounters every Saturday & Sunday, January 3 through February 29. Plus, enjoy heated indoor animal exhibits throughout the park.

Time: Open Tuesday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Location: The Cincinnati Art Museum, http://

U.S. Bank Ice Rink

The Carnegie presents The Wizard of Oz

Through February 28

The Robot Zoo is a popular, 5,000-square-foot exhibit that features giant robot animals to illustrate how real animals work. It also includes activities designed for children from ages 4 to 12. These include: triggering the Tongue Gun of the robot Chameleon, seeing through the eyes of a common house fly, and racing squid!

Time: Open daily; Boone County Main Library, http://www.bcpl.org/, Phone: 859-342-2665

Winter Blues Sale January 17 through January 23

Get 20% off store wide purchases, 15% off blue manatee boxes with FREE shipping, sale tables with deeper discounts, and Buy 2 get 1 free Middle-age chapter books!

Time: Daily Jan. 17-23, Location: Blue Manatee Bookstore, http://www.bluemanateebooks. com/home/activatees.html , Phone: 513-7312665

The Beach Mountain Daily through March 1

Snow tube down snowy 400-foot-long run and ride a moving carpet back to the top! Features 10 lanes for tubing with sessions starting at 2 hours each. Winter chalet to warm up and buy hot food and beverages. Play area for small children to make snowmen or snow angels and try tube ride on mini slope.

{PLEASE NOTE} At Cincinnati Parent, we work hard to ensure our calendar and guide information is accurate.

Occasionally, event specifics change after we go to press.

Therefore, we encourage our readers to call locations or visit them on the web to verify information.

Time: Daily through March 1, Location: The Beach Waterpark, www.thebeachmountain. com, Phone: 513-398-7946

January 2016 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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FUN & WACKY

CINCINNaTI PaRENT // JANUARY 2016

sun

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TUES

WEDS

THURS

FRI

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{SOURCES} familycrafts.about.com, brownielocks.com, holidayinsights.com, zanyholidays.com & thenibble.com

January 2016 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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