January 2022 | Southwest Ohio Parent

JANUARY 2022

(FREE)

7 Ways to Get Fit as a Family

+

Spark Your Child's Love of Learning with a Great Enrichment Class

PLUS

paying for private school Tips for making it within your reach

contents

// JANUARY 2022

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features

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Cool Afterschool Enrichment Ideas Spark your child's love of learning with an afterschool enrichment class.

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Paying for Private School There are many options that can make private school tuition more affordable and within reach.

Get Moving in the New Year

Fun ways to exercise as a family and spend quality time together.

departments In Every Issue

Sponsored Content

06 Letter from the Editor 08 Local Kids

10 News & Notes

26 Unique Programs and

Partnerships at Bishop Leibold School

Resources & Calendars

Around Town 11 Hidden Gems:

New Richmond

16 Local Spotlight: Artswave

Parenting 12 Five Ways to Help

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Your Child Get Enough Sleep

Teens & Tweens 27 The Best Parental

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Control Monitoring Apps Right Now

24 Education Guide 30 Things to Do in January

34 Fun & Wacky Calendar

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Publisher Mary Wynne Cox mary@ohparent.com

Associate Publisher + Creative Director + Advertising Katie Clark katie@ohparent.com

Editor Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@ohparent.com

Production Manager Karen Ring karen@ohparent.com

A New Page, A New Year I love flipping the page on my calendar to a new month.

(And yes, I still have a paper calendar!) There’s something so satisfying about seeing those blank squares on the page, just waiting to be filled in. Going from December to January is especially fulfilling, because not only am I flipping to a new month, but it’s also a new year! Woo hoo!

It’s the little things, you know?

Another thing that comes with the new year: Setting intentions. Sometimes, my new year’s intentions don’t always stick — like learning how to knit. But some intentions, like exercising more, do stick around. I’m happy to say that I got into the habit of exercising more days than not last year, and my body, mind and spirit are all the better for it. I’m trying to pass on this intention to my children, too, so we’ve been incorporating more physical activity outside, even when it’s cold (we just bundle up!). Things like

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walks through the park, playing at the playground, and swimming indoors are all things that we try to do to get our heart pumping.

If one of your new year’s resolutions is to become more active with your family, then check out “Get Moving in the New Year” on page 28. We have simple ideas for making movement fun, and making it a regular habit. There are so many things you can do — like shooting hoops — that don’t even seem like exercise, but they are.

Every little bit counts, and most importantly, you’ll be doing things as a family, so you’ll be creating positive memories, too.

Have a happy and healthy new year!

Digital Publisher Wendy Hasser wendy@ohparent.com

Administration + Digital Mary Mueller mmueller@ohparent.com

Administration + Calendar Editor Brooke Litherland brooke@ohparent.com

Billing billing@ohparent.com

Contributing Writers Pam Freeman, Rebecca Matteson, Steffy McCourt, Jennifer Thompson

Calendar of Events calendar@ohparent.com

SW Ohio Parent is published monthly. Copyright 2021 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.

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say cheese!

LOCAL kids

Blake (10)

January is National Hobby Month, and we love seeing all of the sports and activies that these local kids are into! Here are some of our favorite photo submissions this month.

Sarah (10)

Lucy (8)

Austin (10)

Emily (9)

Want to see your cute kids on this page?

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Mila (5)

We're looking for photos of cute kids for the February issue of Southwest Ohio Parent!

Email your photos to editor@ohparent.com (with the child's first name and age), and your photo might be selected to appear here!

NEWS & Notes

Our monthly roundup of news you can use

celebrate MLK Day

91,406,842 THAT IS HOW MANY MILES THE EARTH WILL BE FROM THE SUN ON JAN. 4, 2022, WHEN OUR PLANET REACHES THE POINT IN ITS ORBIT WHEN IT IS CLOSEST TO THE SUN.

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DID YOU KNOW? Even though Earth is closest to the sun in January, it’s the southern hemisphere that is enjoying all the warmth. Their January temps are equivalent to those in the Northern Hemisphere in July.

On Jan. 17 we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, a day devoted to remembering the life and civil rights work of Dr. King. Education is key to continuing Dr. King’s legacy and MLK Day is the perfect time to share some of the many children’s books available that discuss Dr. King’s work, the Civil Rights movement and ordinary people who have done extraordinary things to help bring an end to social injustice.

PBS.org offers a comprehensive list of books at pbs.org/ parents/thrive/books-for-martin-luther-king-jrday. Your local public library or favorite local bookstore are other great resources for choosing age-appropriate titles for your children.

Watch a Roald Dahl Classic Come to Life on Stage Broadway’s biggest little hero is coming to The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati in Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical Jr., on stage at the Taft Theatre Feb. 5-14, 2022. This is the story of an extraordinary little girl with a vivid imagination who is unloved by her cruel parents. With the help of her sweet school teacher, Miss Honey, Matilda uses her astonishing wit, intelligence and mysterious powers to change her destiny.

This show is great for audiences age 4 and up. Tickets are on sale now. Buy yours today at thechildrenstheatre.com.

HIDDEN GEMS

WORDS BY REBECCA MATTESON

New Richmond Woodland Mound — one of Cincinnati’s favorite parks — you’ll find yourself in the most charming little country town of New Richmond. Winter in New Richmond shines a warm light on cozy coffee shops, boutiques, eateries, museums and parks, complete with a rural feel.

The new home to Queen City’s Showboat Majestic, Front Street has seen its share of recent redevelopment plans, bringing more attention to the charming business district with new family-owned shops and restaurants. New Richmond has post-COVID plans to showcase local talent on the Showboat Majestic, going hand-in-hand with the newly passed DORA (designated outdoor refreshment area) of Front Street.

Little ones will enjoy the unique museums found in New Richmond, such as the World’s Only Cardboard Boat Museum, Ulysses S. Grant's Birthplace and the Ross-Gowdy House. New Richmond is home to the annual Cardboard Boat Regatta during the

River Days Festival. After a visit to the museum, you might find yourself preparing to compete in the summer Regatta with family and friends.

The river town is famous for its beautiful waterfront views of the Ohio River. Spend hours with the kids watching barges and boats float by with a warm Wholy Beans hot cocoa and out-of-this-world brownie in hand. In town, newer playsets at Rose Vesper and Plum Street parks await little hands and feet steaming off energy before their trip back into the city.

Whether your family is listening to live entertainment at Front Street Cafe, touring alpacas and a real working farm at the New Richmond Alpaca Farm, strolling along the river at Haussermann Park, exploring an art gallery at The Collective or bulking up toy collections at River Village Shoppe, rural New Richmond has many hidden gems for you! newrichmond.org

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PARENTING

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DAYTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL

Five Ways to Help Your Child Get Enough Sleep Every evening, a similar routine plays out in many households: Parents try to get their children off to bed, and this starts a complex back and forth of demands, pleading, extra snacks, trips to the bathroom, and a stressful end to the day. You may occasionally give in and let your child stream another video or stay up late reading, but ensuring your child consistently gets enough sleep is crucial to their mental and physical health.

Children who are chronically sleep-deprived are more likely to suffer problems such as obesity or frequent illness, and they may be at increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

They’re also more likely to experience behavioral health problems, such as: · Feeling stressed, anxious or in a rotten mood, which may lead to depression. · Becoming argumentative with friends or family members. · Having trouble concentrating, which may negatively affect schoolwork.

Kids get better-quality sleep when their parents help them consistently practice good sleep hygiene. This means a child’s bedtime routine could involve taking a warm bath or shower, unwinding with a book instead of a screen, keeping the bedroom cool and dark, and always

4. Try soothing sounds.

Some research suggests listening to music at bedtime may help improve sleep quality in children. Consider playing calming songs as quiet background noise while your child rests.

5. Calculate bedtime by counting backward. Figure out what time to put your child to bed by counting backwards from the time they wake up for school to ensure they get enough rest.

Children need a certain amount of sleep to function at their best: honoring a similar bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends.

To encourage a smooth transition to bedtime every night, combine typical sleep hygiene strategies with additional techniques. Here are five ways to help your child to get a good night’s sleep and reduce those stressful bedtimes.

1. Follow sleep-friendly daytime guidelines. Get your child to spend time outside during the morning, because early exposure to daylight helps set their internal clock, so they’re tired at bedtime. Be sure that your child gets plenty of daily exercise so that they’re physically tired in the evening. Limit their intake of caffeine and sugar, especially later in the day. And once your child outgrows naps, discourage sleeping in the middle of the day, which may prevent them from being tired at bedtime.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

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2. Keep pre-bedtime activities calm. The hour before bed, choose soothing activities to help your child unwind. Read, listen to music or have quality family time. Don’t have arguments, tell scary stories or do stimulating activities that will energize your child when they should start to feel sleepy.

3. Designate their bed for sleep. Some children study, watch TV or play games in their beds.

During the pandemic, some even attended virtual school there. But using a bed as an activity space confuses the brain and can make it harder for children to fall asleep.

They may be tempted by toys, televisions or other distractions.

Encourage your child to play and study in other parts of your home and definitely not in their bed.

Keep screens out of the bedroom if at all possible. That may mean charging a cell phone downstairs overnight.

o 3 to 5 year olds should get 10 to 13 hours. o 6 to 12 year olds should get 9 to 12 hours. o Teenagers should get 8 to 10 hours.

The mission of On Our Sleeves is to provide every community in America access to free, evidence-informed educational resources necessary for breaking stigmas about child mental health, and educating families and advocates. Join On Our Sleeves to get more tips and resources like this by visiting childrensdayton.org/ onoursleeves.

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Cool Afterschool

Enrichment Ideas

Spark your child’s love of learning with an afterschool enrichment class.

WORDS BY STEFFY MCCOURT

t

he benefits of

afterschool

enrichment are

many. According to youth.gov, afterschool enrichment activities can provide safety and support for working families, social and emotional learning for children, and oftentimes academic support or enrichment.

Not all enrichment activities are created equally though, and finding good and affordable programs can prove to be a challenge. Here are five different enrichment options to consider for parents looking for activities for their children.

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For the Outdoor Enthusiast Does your child bring home a collection of artifacts (or even living organisms) after playing outside? Is she up a tree before you know it? If so, you probably have an outdoor enthusiast. Here are a few places to consider exploring for afterschool enrichment: Scouts: The Boy Scouts of America and the Girl Scouts of America have lots of activities for kids who love to explore the outdoors.

Park Programs: Oftentimes, park programs for youth are very affordable and sometimes even free. Check out the website for Ohio State Parks

(ohiodnr.gov) or your nearest park system to see what activities are available.

For the Artist Does your child love to get messy?

Are they constantly using their hands to create things? Is their schoolwork full of doodles? You might just have an artist! Here are a few places to consider for afterschool enrichment: An art museum, gallery or art center: Southwest Ohio is home to many art museums that offer classes for all ages, including the Dayton Art Institute, Cincinnati Art Museum and many more. A membership makes frequent trips affordable, and members often receive discounts on classes.

An art studio: Many local art studios offer classes for kids. For a creative child, it is important to make sure that they will have both guidance and freedom. Be sure to ask how the studio nurture’s a child’s creative spirit.

A community center or library: These places usually offer affordable and unique arts and crafts classes for the community. Check your favorite library’s website for their offerings, as well as places like the YMCA, Sharonville Community Center, and others. These are just some of the places you’ll find for quality art instruction.

For the Musician Does your child hum or sing along to every song in the car?

Does he constantly find a beat with his hands or his feet? Is he able to pick up a tune without a lot of instruction? Well then, you might be raising a musician.

Music classes at a music studio or with a music teacher: There are hundreds of music teachers and studios available. The best and most common way to find an instructor for a school-aged child is by reaching out to your child’s school music teacher. When a child gets to middle or high school, the music teacher will even come to the school during their elective period for private lessons. In addition, there are larger studios in the community that will accommodate a trial lesson, to be certain that the studio and the student fit well together.

For the Techie Can’t keep your kid off of their device? Are they pulled to the gaming station as if by an invisible force? Have they taken apart old phones or computers to figure out how they were put together? If so, you might just be parenting a techie. Here are some great places to provide enrichment: STEM enrichment programs: Places like Snapology or Bricks 4 Kidz for kids who like LEGO, Code Ninjas for kids who like computers and coding, and more await your little techie!

Library or school programs: There are so many different STEM labs open and running in libraries and community centers. Each one is unique, but they all give kids the opportunity to learn about science and technology with an expert.

For the Actor Does your child love the spotlight? Do they seem to shine when they are the center of attention? Can they tell a joke that actually makes you laugh?

You might just have an actor on your hands. Be certain to following this lead: Community or school theatre classes: Reach out to the head of the performing arts department at your local high school. Ask them what community or school theatre auditions might be coming up. Sometimes a high school or college show will need young children in their performances. This is a great opportunity to meet awesome mentors.

After a long, hard day at school, it is most important to make these afterschool enrichment opportunities full of fun. Let your child take the lead. These are personality-building opportunities for your child to grow in a safe space.

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AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY PAM FREEMAN

Local Spotlight: ArtsWave Helping to support arts organizations in Greater Cincinnati.

If you live in or near Cincinnati, chances are good that you’ve been to an event or exhibit that’s made possible by ArtsWave. With gifts from tens of thousands of individuals and several hundred companies, ArtsWave funds art that fuels the community, making it a better place to live, work and raise a family. Southwest Ohio Parent talked to Kathy DeBrosse, vice president of marketing and engagement for ArtsWave, to learn more about this nonprofit.

How did ArtsWave get started?

ArtsWave has a deep history of almost 100 years. In 1927, Mr. and Mrs. Charles P. and Anna Sinton Taft offered to create a $1 million endowment to support the arts if the community would match that with $2.5 million.

This endowment became the financial basis for ArtsWave today. By 1949, the Fine Arts Fund was established as an annual community-wide campaign. The organization broadened its impact and changed its name to ArtsWave in 2008. ArtsWave now supports 150 projects and organizations each year.

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It’s provided thousands of outdoor, free and accessible arts events in every one of our 52 neighborhoods.

ArtsWave has worked to make inclusion a hallmark of Cincinnati’s arts including a steady increase in direct funding for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) arts and artists.

What do you have planned for the future?

The annual ArtsWave Campaign (February through May) is the largest community-based campaign for the arts in the nation. In Cincinnati, this is how we fund the arts. It’s not through local levies or local taxes, but instead, by all of us coming together to give what we can in support of our arts and our region.

What types of programs do you fund?

ArtsWave believes the arts connect us and make our region vibrant. We provide ongoing and project support through grants based on decisions made by community volunteers. ArtsWave has worked with the arts community to create a Blueprint for Collective Action that strives to accomplish five things: fuel creativity and learning, bridge

cultural divides, enliven neighborhoods, put Cincinnati on the map and deepen roots.

What impact has ArtsWave made in the community?

ArtsWave has provided hundreds of thousands of educational experiences and outreach for children across the Tri-State area.

Live arts are back! The arts have worked hard to manage social distancing, invest in air purification and assure that those together are masked and have been vaccinated.

There are thousands of performances and events that await you over the next year.

How can families find out more about your upcoming programs?

ArtsWave has the largest arts calendar in the community.

Families can plan their arts experience by using the ArtsWave Guide at guide.artswave.org.

How can people help ArtsWave?

Come enjoy the arts! We are fortunate to have more arts per capita than we could ever imagine.

Check what’s happening and enjoy.

Also, don’t forget to support the arts. Ticket sales cover half of the revenue needed for a producing arts organization; you and I help to cover that remainder. If you’d like to donate, go to artswave.org/give.

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paying for P R I VAT E S C H O O L There are many options that can make private school tuition more affordable and within reach.

WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

hen you hear the words private school,

do you see dollar signs? Maybe you’ve

dreamed of this type of education for your child, but have dismissed the idea immediately because of cost. If you are a parent who wants a private school education but has reservations about the price tag, there are options available that can make it a bit more affordable. You just need to know where to look!

representative to help guide you through their process. Typically, students must first become accepted to the school before financial aid is awarded. Complete your due diligence for each school to determine the “best fit” for your child, followed by completing the admission process, which might require testing, a release of records and teacher recommendation. Many schools bundle their fees into the tuition so as not to have additional add-ons. However, a lunch fee and extended-care (coverage outside of school hours) may need to be factored additionally.

Sharing their tips and advice for parents who are looking for tuition options are Sharon Shumardi, director of community engagement for Bethany School; Anne Dettmer, director of enrollment and financial aid for The Miami Valley School; and Elaine Pearl, the associate director of admission for Summit Country Day School.

W

WHAT DO YOU SAY TO PARENTS WHO ARE CONSIDERING PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR THEIR CHILD

BUT ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THE COST? Pearl: Many private-independent schools offer ways to partner with families who qualify.

Research a ffordability opportunities on the school website or have a conversation with the admission

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Shumard: Front-ending your child’s education is a financially smart move. If you invest early in a private education, not only do children reap the rewards of having a solid education while they are in the early stages of development, but many times it can lead to scholarship opportunities in high school.

Dettmer: Tuition shouldn’t be a

barrier to enrollment. At MVS, we use

need-based aid to keep a family's tuition

obligation within their level of

affordability. Fifty-five percent of our

students in grades K-12 receive tuition

assistance, and we give out over $3 million

in aid each year. The average aid package is

over half tuition, with many families

receiving more.

*continued on page 22

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WHAT ELSE SHOULD PARENTS CONSIDER? Pearl: You might want to explore the outcomes of a school — meaning, the number of college scholarships that their recent graduates are attracting from institutions. Making the investment in an independent or private school in the early years can have an enormous impact on college costs in the future. Additionally, high performing students may qualify to take Advanced Placement courses in high school which are credited to the college transcript.

Dettmer: Don't let the full tuition numbers keep you away.

As the only independent school in the Dayton area, we know our tuition is higher than other schools. But a lot of our families pay less than they would elsewhere.

Shumard: Shop around. There are many options for private schools. Many of us are institutions that have been transforming student’s lives for years and the tuition is quite affordable.

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If you are interested in a private school education for your child, there are many wonderful schools in Southwest Ohio that offer assistance and scholarships. Reach out to the admissions office to find out what’s available to your family.

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EDUCATION GUIDE CHARTER

Chai Tots Early Childhood Center

Citizens of the World Charter School Academic excellence via a unique blend Our model focuses on social and emotional learning, project based learning, and difference and inclusion.

We empower children to think critically and learn to engage respectfully and productively with fellow students by developing their capacity to enter into and understand the lives of others. • 4324 Homer Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45227, Contact: Executive Director, Phone: (513) 445-4793, Email: recruitment@cwcschools.org, cwccincinnati.org

CHILDCARE & PRESCHOOL A Million Dreams Learning Center New Learning Center now open in Milford, OH! Now Enrolling ages 6 weeks - School Age! We strive to provide an environment, staff, and programs that will enhance and encourage the million dreams of each child, family, and staff member. Through our classroom design, playground design and Christian curriculum, it is this Center’s desire to maintain a joy-filled, peaceful, creative environment for infants and children. We are committed to furnishing such an environment and adding a quality of childcare that is desirable and much needed in our community. • 541 Main Street, Milford OH 45150, Contact: Kate Jordan, Phone: (513) 831-5806, Email: info@amilliondreamslc.org, amilliondreamslc.org

The Campus at Kids First We have FULL DAY Kindergarten!

Located inside the nationally acclaimed Kids First Sports Center, The Campus offers the premier early learning experience for children ages 6 weeks through Kindergarten. As the only early learning center in the area that makes physical education a top priority, The Campus at Kids First gives your child an academic edge by integrating a world class physical education (including gymnastics, basketball, yoga and soccer!) curriculum in to the daily schedule, at NO additional cost! Our carefully selected and loving teachers utilize a relevancebased curriculum combined with child-directed play to make learning FUN and start each child on their journey to becoming a life-long learner. • 7900 E Kemper Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, theCampusKF.com, Phone: (513) 629-KIDS, Email: info@theCampusKF.com

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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, Spanish, dance, drama, art and Tae Kwon Do. Flexible schedules, before and aftercare, web cams and after-school enrichment available. Transportation available to/from Mason schools.

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

Creative Tots, Mason Our holistic approach allows children (18 months - 5 1/2 years) the opportunity to learn, explore, play and grow while engaging in the fine arts, science, music, yoga and a modernized curriculum. We provide opportunities to use creativity, solve problems, use language, develop new vocabulary and reading skills, while engaging in intellectual activities. There are elements of STEAM education, bilingual education, arts education, as well as lots of physical activities to strengthen the mind and body. • 6408 Thornberry Ct., Mason, OH 45040, Contact: Emilie Parry, Phone: 513-770-6776, Email: creativetotsmason@gmail.com, creativetotsmason.com, Grades: Toddler: 18 months-3 yrs, Preschool: 3-4 yrs; Pre-K: 4-5 yrs

MONTESSORI Central Montessori Academy Authentic Montessori environment, serving toddler 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. • 1904 Springdale Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231, Contact: Denise Ott, Phone: 513-742-5800, Email: info@ centralmontessoriacademy.com, CentralMontessoriAcademy.com, Grades: Toddler-Grade 6, Enrollment: 100

Children’s Meeting House Montessori School Children's Meeting House Montessori School has been proudly educating students from preschool through 6th grade using the principles of the Montessori philosophy since 1972. CMH offers a variety of preschool, enrichment and before/after school options to meet each family’s needs. Partner with our devoted staff of experienced and Montessori trained teachers throughout your child’s most developmental years.

CMH – where learning happens, naturally. Find out more or schedule a tour on our website. • 927 O’Bannonville

Rd, Loveland, OH 45140, Contact: Casey Reed, Director, Phone: 513-683-4757, Email: reed@ cmhschool.com, cmhschool.com, Grades: Preschool - 6th grade, Enrollment: 150

Little Sprouts Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten Little Sprouts Montessori nurtures the natural curiosity and enthusiasm of children, helping them develop a lifetime love of learning. Our goal is to empower children to discover and hone their strengths as they explore the world. We recognize the importance of individualized education, and maintain a 1:6 ratio. • 7131 Plainfield Road, Deer Park, OH 45236, Contact: Christie Sawyer, Phone: 513-697-9021, Email: csawyer@ leavesoflearning.org, little-sprouts.org, Grades: Preschool & Kindergarten, Enrollment: Families choose mornings two to four days per week (T/TH and/or W/F), and/or afternoon sessions on Tuesday and Thursday.

Mercy Montessori Center Mercy Montessori is Cincinnati's first Catholic Montessori elementary school and provides students with a personalized education. Mercy offers a sliding scale tuition model, in-school swimming instruction starting at age three, and attracts students from over 60 zip codes. Mercy educates the whole child and develops a strong foundation for learning. • 2335 Grandview Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45206, Contact: Amanda Grimm, Admissions Director, Phone: (513) 475-6700 ext. 210, Email: agrimm@ mercymontessori.org, mercymontessori.org, Grades: Preschool - 8th Grade, Enrollment: 296

The New School Montessori Cincinnati's only school accredited by the American Montessori Society.

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 with healthy lunches included in tuition. ISACS and AMS accredited program. • 3 Burton Woods

Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229, Contact: Ceara Comstock, Phone: (513) 281-7999, Email: ceara.c@newschoolmontessori.com, newschool montessori.com, Grades: 3-year-olds through Grade 6, Enrollment: 144

NON–PUBLIC Bishop Leibold School When you join the Bishop Leibold Family, you join a community of students and families, a caring staff, and three parishes dedicated to providing your child with an excellent Christ-centered education. We serve students in preschool (3 years old) through eighth grade! Contact us today to learn more. • 6666 N Springboro Pike Dayton, OH 45449 | 24 S. Third St. Miamisburg, OH 45342, 937-434-9343 | 937-866-3021, bishopleibold.org

Cincinnati Christian Schools CCS has been creating lifelong learners, creative thinkers, passionate disciples, and visionary leaders for over 40 years.

Our graduates are welcomed at universities because they’ve become the natural learners and inquisitive students that God created them to be. CCS knows that faith and learning go hand-in-hand. Outstanding. Proven. • Elementary Campus: 7350 Dixie Hwy, Fairfield, OH, 45014, Junior/Senior High Campus: 7474 Morris Rd., Fairfield, OH, 45011, (513) 892-8500, Contact: Peggy Head, Director of Admissions, Email: peggyhead@ cincinnatichristian.org, cincinnatichristian. org, Grades: PS - 12

Guardian Angels School Guardian Angels School provides students in preschool through eighth grade with a faith-filled experience focused on academic excellence, whole child education, and attention to each child’s unique learning needs. As a school, we push all of our students to earn their HALO through being Honest, Accountable, and a Leader to Others . • 6539 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati 45230, Contact: Mr. Corey Stoops, Principal, Phone: 513-624-3141, gaschool.org, Grades: Preschool - Grade 8

The Miami Valley School At The Miami Valley School's Early Childhood School, a lifetime love of learning begins for students age 3-4.

Here, seasoned teachers create a safe environment where a child’s learning

* SPONSORED LISTINGS

and imagination take flight. Since 1964, MVS has been Dayton's top private school for grades EC-12. Schedule your tour: www.miamivalleyschool.org/ admissions. • 5151 Denise Drive, Dayton, OH 45429, Phone: (937) 434-4444, mvschool.com/

The Summit Country Day School Founded in 1890, The Summit serves students from 18 months to Grade 12.

Full- and half-day Montessori programs for ages 18 months-age 6 begin the academic journey followed by a college-preparatory program (Grades 1-12). The Summit educates students spiritually, academically, physically, socially and artistically while offering the academic excellence and one-on-one guidance of a top-tier Catholic independent school. • 2161 Grandin Road (Hyde Park), Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: 513-871-4700, ext. 261, Email: pearl_e@summitcds.org, summitcds.org

SPECIAL NEEDS Dufau Speech Therapy Functional speech therapy with a focus on parent involvement. Easy and convenient sessions provided via Teletherapy, all that is needed is an internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone. Specialized treatment for speech/phonological disorders, language disorders, and co-occurring literacy deficits. Schedule a free consultation! • 9489 Chardon Circle Apt 202, West Chester, OH 45069, Contact: Jen Dufau, jen@dufauspeechtherapy.com Phone: 513-692-9963, DufauSpeechTherapy.com

Linden Grove School Linden Grove School is a stateaccredited, non-public K-8 school offering a specialized learning environment for students with ASD and related learning needs. Our progressive education program integrates academics, social-emotional learning, and specialized therapies. We partner with families to create a respectful, rewarding and supportive environment, inspiring hope for all and providing each student with the opportunity for personal growth and independence. After-school programs and summer camp are also available for enrolled students. • 4122 Myrtle Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45236, lindengroveschool. org, Phone: (513) 984-2215, headofschool@ lindengroveschool.org

Springer School and Center For 50 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 Starts Here. • 2121 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: Jill Wieging, Associate Admissions Director, Phone: 513 871-6080 ext. 211, Fax: 513-871-6428, Email: jwieging@springer-ld.org, springer-LD.org, Grades: 1 through 8, Enrollment: 200

BE PART OF OUR MONTHLY GUIDE CONTACT KATIE@OHPARENT.COM

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Unique Programs and Partnerships at Bishop Leibold School Education for ALL Students

At Bishop Leibold School, our goal has always been to meet students where they are and help them reach academic success that is specific to their individual needs. In 2019, we adopted an approach that helps us more accurately identify the needs and strengths of our students in order to better serve them. Utilizing Multi-Tiered Student Support (MTSS), our team of intervention specialists, teachers, counselors, aides, and parents are able to come together and work as a unified team to set each student up for success. Through differentiated classroom instruction and small group instructional support, individual strengths are fostered and praised while additional `needs are addressed.

“MTSS is vital for us to be consistent as an entire staff,” says Dr. Theodore Wallace, principal of Bishop Leibold “in doing so, we are able to work with our students that need the most help, and our highest achievers so that they are being appropriately challenged in the classroom.”

MTSS is just one component of the strides that Bishop Leibold continues to take to serve each individual student. Bishop Leibold is also an official provider of the Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship (JPSN), a K-12

program that provides scholarships to students who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) from their local district but prefer to attend a participating private school.

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Bishop Leibold also holds many unique collaborations with specialized community partners.

One such partnership is with The Reading Lab, a program that provides dyslexia testing, training & tutoring services to “bright but struggling” readers during the school day. “Our partnership with Bishop Leibold is quite unique since we have the opportunity to serve students during the school day. Families really appreciate this in addition to the impact it is having on helping unlock the full potential of their children.” says Donna Donahue, director of The Reading Lab.

Bishop Leibold also has established a partnership with the University of Dayton’s Empowering Children with Hope and Opportunity (ECHO).

Bishop Leibold has held many student, staff, and parent information sessions with ECHO for years. We are proud to say that as of this school year, an ECHO counselor now spends time on-site at Bishop Leibold, helping the families and staff to more effectively address the mental health needs of our students.

It is enhancements to our programming through initiatives like those listed above, constant communication and collaboration among our staff, and commitment from our school families that make Bishop Leibold School a wonderful place for every student.

PHOTO CREDITS

BISHOP LEIBOLD SCHOOL

TEENS & TWEENS

WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

The Best Parental Control Monitoring Apps Right Now Three highly rated tools that can help protect your kids online.

I have four children ranging in age from 15 to 9. As they age, I am realizing the importance of monitoring their relationship with the online world. But I’m not going to lie — even typing that sentence makes me feel a little overwhelmed. With all of the demands in life, finding the time to check YouTube, email, texts and social media feels a bit daunting.

And if I’m being really honest, I could be a lot better at it than I am.

Recently, I had a conversation with a friend about an online monitoring tool she had been using called Bark. I was intrigued and decided I should probably sign up for one of these apps myself.

While I have the best of intentions when it comes to checking and monitoring all of my children’s devices and online interactions, the reality is, more times than not, I let it slip. And this really isn’t something I should be letting slip.

If you have felt anything like me, you may want to consider using a parental control monitoring app.

Here are three highly-rated apps that may be a good fit for you and your family.

Qustodio (qustodio.com)

- Qustodio has a lot of the features parents are looking for in a monitoring app. With this app, you can filter content and apps, monitor activity, set time limits, locate family members, track calls and SMS, get reports, alerts and SOS. They also offer primary support to help set-up Qustodio and make sure you have the maximum protection and screen time balance needed for your family. With three separate plans, they have something for everyone.

The small plan covers five devices and is $54.95/year. The medium plan is $96.95/year and covers 10 devices and the largest plan they offer is $137.95/year and covers 15 devices.

Bark (bark.us) -

Bark monitors 30+ of the most popular apps and social media platforms, including text messaging and email, for signs of digital dangers. The screen time management and web filtering tools help you set healthy limits around how and when your kids use their devices. Bark Premium is $14/monthly or $99/annually and will cover all of your children’s devices. Using Bark Premium, parents can monitor texts, email, YouTube and a wide variety of apps and platforms, get alerts for uses like cyberbullying, online predators, suicidal ideation and more, manage screen time, filter what websites your kids can visit and keep up with kids with location check-ins. Bark also offers a package for families with younger children who may not need as much monitoring. This Bark Jr. package is $5/monthly or $49/annually and manages screen

time, filters which websites your children can visit, and keeps up with kids with location check-ins.

Norton Family (family.

norton.com) - Norton Family offers a product that makes the web safe for children to explore, helps balance time spent online, offers detailed reports of what children are doing online and now includes a new School Time feature that helps online students to stay focused on schoolwork.

The cost for this service is a great price of just $49.99/year.

Keeping track of our children’s relationship with the online world is no small task, especially as new apps and ways for them to connect with others are increasingly regularly.

Hopefully, using a parental control monitoring app will help make this difficult task a little bit easier.

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GET MOV I N G IN THE NEW YEAR

Fun ways to exercise as a family and spend quality time together.

WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

E

xperts recommend

that individuals ages 6

and older should get at least an hour of moderate to vigorous activity every day. But how can a busy family manage that? You may hear this and think it sounds great in theory, but look at your calendar and feel the cold air outside, and begin to wonder if it’s possible. We have some good news for you: it is! And not only is it possible, it can also be a great bonding experience for your family.

Here are some fun ways you and your family can get moving in the new year!

Visit a Trampoline Park The cold winter days can make the thought of exercising a bit less appealing, especially when there is a warm blanket you can cozy up under.

The good news is that trampoline parks are open year round, and fun for not only kids but grown-ups, too. You are guaranteed to burn a ton of calories, get an incredible leg workout and laugh a lot with your family while your kids watch you act like a kid again.

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Get Your Stretch On

Go Sledding Sledding? Really? Yes, really! It’s not so much going down the hill, but trekking up the hill is sure to get your heart pumping. To top it off, walking through snow is much more strenuous than a regular walk.

And this exercise comes with a built-in bonus: Every time you walk up the hill pulling that sled, you get to experience the exhilaration of flying down the hill, full speed ahead!

Try Ice Skating The great thing about ice skating is there are both indoor and outdoor options available. Gliding on the ice is a great way to get in shape, and spend a memorable afternoon with your family.

Trek Around on Snow Both cross country skiing and using snowshoes are incredible cardiovascular workouts that turn a snowy day into a great adventure. The only problem is both require gear you may not have on hand, or want to invest in if you aren’t planning on making this a regular activity. Some local state parks and winter outfitters offer rentals during the winter months. Check with your local parks to see which ones may offer rentals and if the trails will be groomed for these activities this winter season. If they are, both of these activities are well worth the time and money spent!

You may hear the word yoga and think that sounds wonderful, or maybe you hear it and think, “No way. Not for my family. Do you know how wiggily my kids are?” I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it,” and the same is true with yoga. There are some great beginners yoga videos on YouTube, like Yoga With Adriene, that run anywhere from 6 minutes to 30 minutes. There is also a YouTube channel called Cosmic Kids that has Frozen Yoga, My Little Pony Yoga, Sonic the Hedgehog Yoga, Minecraft Yoga and more! These videos are especially great for families with younger children who need to get moving.

Build a Snowman Anna from Frozen was onto something. Putting on the snowgear, rolling up giant balls of snow, picking out scarves and hats and carrots and buttons for decor. There is something so fulfilling about building a snowman. And there is something even more fulfilling about building a snowman with your family. Want to bring that up another level? Try building a snowman family!

Shoot Some Hoops Many local gyms have basketball courts where families can shoot hoops, play games like PIG and Around the World, and even have a little scrimmage. Each gym is different. If you aren’t a member at a local gym, be sure to check and see if they have a daily rate, if you need to reserve a time slot, and if balls are provided.

It may be harder to get the exercise needed during the winter months, but it’s definitely not impossible. These activities will not only get your heart rate up, but will also create memories that will last a lifetime. And it may seem counterintuitive, but there is nothing like a steaming cup of hot cocoa after being outside and burning calories on a cold winter’s day.

THINGS TO DO //

SAT 01 New Year’s Day Skate at

Riverscape Start the New Year with a healthy, active lifestyle and be the first to skate in 2022! • Location: Riverscape MetroPark, Time: 1-8 pm, metroparks.org

Downtown Jingle Lights (last night!) See downtown streets transformed into an interactive, drive-thru light show, choreographed to the beat of your favorite holiday tunes! Tune your radio to 97.1 FM as you drive the route. • Location: Downtown Dayton on Main Street, Third Street, and Monument Avenues, downtowndayton.org FREE

Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains (last days!) Through January 3, 2022. Track-level views reveal intricate details of the display, which features over 300 rail cars and 60 locomotives. Flip through 75 years of Duke Energy Holiday Trains history in an interactive storybook with just the wave of their hand. Returning once again is Brickopolis, a LEGO display crafted into fantastical scenes from the magical worlds of Disney, Marvel, DC Comics and Harry Potter. • Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, cincymuseum.org

SUN 02 Cincinnati Bengals vs

Kansas City Chiefs Don't miss the Cincinnati Bengals vs. Kansas City Chiefs NFL Football game at the Paul Brown Stadium • Location: Paul Brown Stadium, Time: 1 pm, bengals.com

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JANUARY 2022

Light in the Forest (last night!)

Experience Cincinnati Nature Center in a whole new light! Walk through an enchanting display of lights and illuminated trees reflecting peace and inspiration.

Event features installations by Brave Berlin (a BLINK light show artist), live music, a bonfire, holiday shopping, and more! • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, cincynature.org

TUES 04 – SUN 09 Hairspray You

Can’t Stop the Beat! HAIRSPRAY, Broadway’s Tony Award-winning musical comedy phenomenon that inspired the blockbuster film and live television event, is back on tour! Join 16-year-old Tracy Turnblad in 1960’s Baltimore as she sets out to dance her way onto TV’s most popular show. Can a girl with big dreams (and even bigger hair) change the world? • Location: AronoffCenter, Time: see webstie for showtimes, cincinnati. broadway.com/shows/hairspray

MON 03 Baby Storytime Enjoy

stories read aloud and a fun mix of age-appropriate early literacy activities. • Location: MidPointe Library

WED 05 Legos at the Library

FREE

Calling all Lego lovers! The library provides the LEGO blocks - you provide the imagination. •

Winter Escape Come in from the cold and visit the Junction this January! Save $2 off a full-price Do-It-All ticket, when you purchase online!! Plus their 1st Class Boarding Pass members can Bring-A-Friend FREE! • Location:

Family Storytime Enjoy stories read aloud and a fun mix of age-appropriate early literacy activities. • Location: MidPointe Library West Chester,

Middletown, Time: 10:15- 10:45 am, midpointelibrary.org

Location: Miami Township Library, Time: Between Noon- 5:30 pm, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

EnterTRAINment Junction, Time: 10 am- 6 pm, entertrainmentjunction.com *ONGOING

TUES 04 EARLY ADVENTURES Hit

the trail with us! These exploratory hikes foster curiosity and confidence in young children. Your leader will point out seasonal changes and other natural points of interest in the parks. This hike takes place after sunset. Lanterns will be available to borrow. This hike is on a paved path. Ages 0 – 4 years with adult companion. • Location: Iron Horse Park,

Time: 6-6:30 pm, midpointelibrary.org FREE

THURS 06 CAC Thursday Art Play Hike Join the Contemporary Arts Center and Cincinnati Parks for some outdoor fun and creativity.

Winter themed nature activities, a take home art bag, and in-person project with local artist. Online registration required. • Location: Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, cincinnatiparks.com FREE

Time: 6-7 pm, cwpd.org

FREE / free for families!

*ONGOING /a recurring event

*SN / special needs friendly

/ a SW Ohio Parent favorite!

THURS, JANUARY 13

FRI 07 Little Explorers Preschool Fun Together you will learn about letters numbers, shapes, colors and so much more all while making new friends! • Location: Bellbrook Park District

PAPER SNOWFLAKES AT HUBER HEIGHTS LIBRARY

Headquarters, Time: 10:30-11: 30 am, bellbrooksugarcreekparks.org

Stories by the Fireside Bring your little ones out for some winter fun! Enjoy winter-themed stories, songs and activities to kick off the morning. • Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, Time: 10:30 am, greatparks.org FREE

SAT 08 Styrofoam Recycling

Event Hate to throw away all the Styrofoam your kids open over the holidays? Bring your Styrofoam to Activity Center Park. Volunteers will unload your vehicle — you won’t even need to get out of your car! • Location: Activity Center Park, Tie: 9 am- 1 pm, cwpd.org

PNC Festival of Lights (last days!) The Cincinnati Zoo will still be shining bright as we’re once again transformed into a “Wild Wonderland” for the 39th annual PNC Festival of Lights! In addition to admiring the beauty of 4 million LED lights, visitors can ride the North Polar Express train ride, marvel at the spectacular Wild Lights show on Swan Lake, or snack at one of two S’mores-n-More stands. • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, cincinnatizoo.org/events/festival-of-lights *ONGOING

Trains and Traditions: A Cincinnati Holiday (last days!) Experience a tapestry of colorful poinsettias,charming garden railways and beautiful replicas of Cincinnati landmarks createdout of “Botanical Architecture” by local artisans; Applied Imagination. Krohn Conservatory is where holiday traditions take place in the warmth of thetropics. • Location: Krohn Conservatory,

program will feature light refreshments, snacks, a craft and a story. Ages 4 – 10 with grandparent(s). • Location: Bill Yeck Park, Time: 4-5 pm, cwpd.org

MON 10 Penguin Days Waddle to the Zoo and enjoy discounted admission during Penguin Days! • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Time: 10 am- 5 pm, cincinnatizoo.org *ONGOING

FLOWer Buds Budding artists use movement that flows into art. You will put your coordination and imagination to work while you make active artwork! Please dress in clothing that can get messy! Ages 3 – 5. • Location: Activity Center Park, Time: 4:30- 5:15 pm, cwpd.org

Musicals the Musical! The Musical of Musicals (The Musical!) is a musical about musicals!

In this hilarious satire of musical theatre, one story becomes five delightful musicals, each written in the distinctive style of a different master of the form, from Rodgers and Hammerstein to Stephen Sondheim. • Location: Fitton Center for the Arts, Time: see website for times, thestorycollective.org/tickets

WED 12 Spot the Snowmen! Ten

little snowmen are hanging out in the children's area!

Get your checklist at the desk, find them all, and turn in your completed form for a prize! • Location: Miami Township, Time: 9:30 am- 8:30 pm, daytonmetrolibrary. org FREE

Create, Explore and More Join them in the new year for a fun session of Create, Explore & More. Families can delve into their different creative and exploratory stations together. • Location: Eaton

Homeschool Maple Tree Tapping Experience the process of producing liquid gold from maple sap from the very beginning! • Location:

SUN 09 New Year’s Newtons Join them for a self-guided scientific adventure! Perform experiments to solve the mystery of “The Breathless Balloon,” or explore non-Newtonian fluids while creating a pet slime. Scientists-in-training will work through the Scientific Method and draw their own conclusions in this hands-on program. • Location: Great Parks Nature Center at The Summit, Time: 1-2 pm, greatparks.org FREE

Winter Warm-Up Tea Party Looking for a little fancy fun? Tea time is a great way to spend an afternoon together! Enjoy the view of the park while warming up inside. They will have tea and treats sure to please all ages. This intergenerational

Location: Huber Heights Library, Time: All-day, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

TUES 11 – SUN 16 Musical of

cincinnatiparks.com/krohn/ *ONGOING

Branch Library, Time: 1-3 pm, preblelibrary.org FREE

Paper Snowflakes Make a snowflake that will last forever and can hang on your window. •

Cincinnati Nature Center, Times: 12:30pm & 3:00pm, cincynature.org

In Person Storytime: Family All ages are welcome to join Ms. Kelly and enjoy books, songs, and activities, while building early literacy skills. • Location: Reading Branch Library, Time: 10:30- 11:15 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

THURS 13 In Person Event:

Messy Science Children ages 6-12 are invited to complete a messy science project.

Registration is required. Please register each child who will be participating. • Location: Loveland Branch Library, Time: 4-5 pm, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

FRI 14 – SUN 16 The Addams Family In one hilarious night, secrets are disclosed and the Addamses must face up to the one terrifying thing they’ve managed to avoid for generations: change. A story of love and friendship through adversity, The Addams Family is funny, poignant and altogether ooky. • Location Victoria Theatre, Time: sese website for times, daytonlive.org

Fireside Storytime in The Nature PlayScape Join them for an outdoor winter storytime in the Nature PlayScape. Cozy up by the fire and get lost in nature-themed tales and movements led by their story expert. • Location:

Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 10-11 am, cincynature.org

FRI 14 – MON 17 Young’s 153rd

Birthday Celebration Help them celebrate their birthday with specials all over the farm. • Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy, Time: see website for times, youngsdairy.com

SAT 15 Winter Habitat Hike

Explore your inner naturalist as you move through a variety of habitats and signs of animal life. Weather Dependent. • Location: Carriage Hill MetroPark, Time: 1-2:30 pm, metroparks.org FREE

Open Aircraft Days at the Air Force Museum On Open Aircraft Days at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, visitors will have the unique opportunity to look inside one of the museum’s aircraft. This month: A-10A "Thunderbolt II" (Fairchild Republic). • Location: National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Time: 11 am- 3 pm, nationalmuseum.af.mil FREE

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Historic Barn Walk Each log of our historic buildings reveals the toil and hope of the farm’s founders. Walk through the barns and farm buildings that started it all here at the farm as they reveal the story of the founding family and how they lived through the years, from the 1835 bank barn to the 1930s hen house. • Location: Gorman Heritage Farm, Time: 1:30- 3 pm, gormanfarm.org

SUN 16

Cincinnati Cyclones Kids Jersey Jersey Giveaway Want your kid to look great in the new year, how about a Youth Jersey? First 1,500 kids ages 2-12 get a free jersey. • Location: Heritage Bank Center, Time: 2 pm, cycloneshockey.com

3rd Sunday at Front Street 3rd Sunday Art Hops at Front Street are held year-round and feature a market, art galleries, open studios, free family activities, food trucks, live music, and more! •

MetroParks Ice Rink Get out and skate on the region's largest outdoor ice rink! It measures 70 feet by 150 feet and is sheltered under a pavilion. The rink has something for everyone: beginners’ lessons, open skating, broomball and curling, not to mention hot chocolate and music. • Location: Five Rivers MetroParks, metroparks.org/ice-rink/ *ONGOING

WED 19 Indoor Storytime:

Toddler Enjoy stories, rhymes, music & play while exploring early literacy and social & emotional learning skills. Ages 18-36 months. • Location: Loveland Branch Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

THURS 20 Preschool Nature

Series: Red Fox vs. Gray Fox Red foxes and gray foxes are both in Centerville. So, what’s the difference? You will learn how to tell them apart together! Ages 3 – 5 with adult companion. •

Location: Front Street, Dayton, Time: 11 am- 4 pm, frontstreet.art/pages/3rd-sunday-1 FREE

Location: Grant Park, Kennard Nature Nook, Time: 9:30-10:30 am, cwpd.org

Animals Alive! Come inside the cozy and warm Park Headquarters for a friendly visit with some live animals from the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery. They will be bringing critters that are an amphibian, reptile, mammal and a bird. Get a close up look at these amazing animals and you may even get to pet or touch a critter at this fun and educational program! Pre-registration required by 1/13. •

FRI 21 Little Leapers at Sky Zone

Location: Bellbrook Park District Headquarters, Time: 2-3 pm, bellbrooksugarcreekparks.org

MON 17 In Person Storytime:

Library Babies Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories and movement. Don't forget to bring an instrument, a ball, a scarf, and if you would like, a blanket to sit on in the children's area! • Location: Madeira Branch Library, Time: 10:30-11 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

TUES 18 Storytime: Preschool Enjoy books, songs, activities and more, while building early literacy skills. • Location: Symmes

Township, Time: 10:30-11 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

NOW THROUGH MARCH 11 PENGUINS DAYS AT THE CINCINNATI ZOO

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Dayton Fun, high-energy play adventure where the little ones can jump without the bigger kiddos! • Location: Sky Zone Dayton, Time: 10- 11 am, skyzone.com/ dayton

Baby Tours at Cincinnati Art Museum This 40 minute experience will introduce you and your infant (ages 0-2) to the world of art with a tour designed to stimulate their developing minds. • Location: Cincinnati Art Museum,

FRI 21 – SUN 23 Cirque Goes Broadway Dizzying heights and Broadway lights come together for a captivating Pops & Cirque mashup. Marvel at the eye-popping feats of Cirque’s mesmerizing acrobats with JMR and the Pops performing top Broadway hits to accompany contortionists, balancers, tumblers, and athletes on aerial silks defying gravity and doing the seemingly impossible. • Location: Music Hall, Time: see website for times, cincinnatisymphony.org

SAT 22 Farmyard Family

Storytime Enjoy a farm-themed storytime in our Bank Barn as we enjoy an interactive picture-book reading and meet the animals in the barnyard. Geared for ages 3-5, but all ages are welcome! • Location: Gorman Heritage Farm, Time: 1-2 pm, gormanfarm.org

Abiyoyo Abiyoyo is based on a South African folk tale about a giant who eats everything in sight—cows, goats, and even children! This one-man story telling experience will encourage participants to face the monsters in their own life with honesty, courage, and strength of spirit. Audiences will learn that Abiyoyo just wants to be recognized. Free ticket required. • Location: Memorial Hall, Time: Noon & 2 pm, memorialhallotr.com FREE

Nature Encounters at the Trailside Nature Center Nature lovers of all ages are invited to join the Cincinnati Park staff and volunteers at the Trailside Nature Center in Burnet Woods to learn about the natural world around us. • Location: Burnet Woods, Time: 10 am- 4 pm, cincinnatiparks.co

Time, 11 am, 2 pm & 3 pm, cincinnatiartmuseum.org

MON 24 Jump, Wiggle and Shout Professor Rocket's Space Adventure Show There’s no place like space… and Professor Rocket will take you there!

With the help of whimsical puppet friends and future astronauts like you, Professor Rocket will have you blasting off into an adventure of learning that you’ll never forget. • Location: Fitton Center for Creative Arts,

Let’s move inside for an indoor playroom full of fun and new friends. This program is all about silly wigglies and goofy babbles. Your little one will have a blast movin’ and groovin’ to music while developing coordination, balance, listening skills, and gross motor skills. Pre- registration is required. • Location:

Bugcicles: Discovering Hibernating Insects Do you enjoy hiking during the winter?

Have you ever tried hiking at night? Then come out to Woodland Mound after the sun sets to see this wintry wonderland in its nighttime splendor. Be sure to dress for the weather; closed-toe shoes are required for this program. • Location: Woodland Mound, Time: 11 am- 2 pm,

TUES 25 In Person Event: Lego

time: 7:30 pm, fittoncenter.org/fitton-family-fridays

greatparks.org FREE

Bellbrook Park District Headquarters, Time: 11 am- Noon, bellbrooksugarcreekparks.org

Tuesdays Come build, create, and share LEGOs at the Library. • Location: Mt. Healthy Branch Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

WED 26 Hamilton Featuring a score

that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, HAMILTON has taken the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton and created a revolutionary moment in theatre—a musical that has had a profound impact on culture, politics, and education. • Location: Schuster Center, Time: see website for times, daytonlive.org/events/Hamilton *ONGOING

THURS 27 Family Storytime

Enjoy stories read aloud and a fun mix of ageappropriate early literacy activities. • Location:

MidPointe Library West Chester, Time: 10:15-10:45 am, midpointelibrary.org FREE

FRI 28 Indoor Story Walk Read a story as you walk around the library, then make a craft based on the book. • Location: Huber Heights

Library, Time: All-day, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

FRI 28 – SAT 29 Glow Night at

Sky Zone Dayton Glow Night Friday & Saturday Night for ages 8yrs and up. Wear a shirt that glows—anything white or neon! • Location: Sky Zone

Dayton, Time: 8-10 pm, skyzone.com/dayton

Animal Tracking Excursion If you have ever wanted to become an animal tracker, come discover the art and science of tracking on this hands-on excursion. Weather Dependent. • Location: Sugarcreek MetroPark, Time: 1-2:30 pm, metroparks.org FREE

Time: Noon- 2 pm, contemporaryartscenter.org

The Science Behind Pixar Through April 24, 2022. The interactive exhibition showcases the boundless limits of STEM, imagination and curiosity, thrilling you as you come face-to-face with popular characters, including Buzz Lightyear, Dory, Mike and Sulley, Edna Mode and WALL•E. • Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, cincymuseum.org/pixar *ONGOING

SUN 30 Winter Family Hike Enjoy

the park winter wonderland on this hike while you discover the different organisms that are still active during the coldest time of the year. Be sure to dress for the weather; closed-toe shoes are required for this program. • Location: Woodland Mound, Time: 1:30- 3:30 pm, greatparks.org

MON 31 Family Storytime Enjoy

stories read aloud and a fun mix of age-appropriate early literacy activities. • Location: MidPointe Library

West Chester, Time: 11:15-11:45 am, midpointelibrary.org FREE

MetroParks Ice Rink at Five Rivers MetroParks

Christmas at the Junction Through January 2. Create a holiday tradition for your family! See the magic of Christmas at the home of the World’s Largest Indoor Train Display. Take a “Journey to the North Pole”, where you can meet Mrs. Claus and Santa himself. • Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, entertrainmentjunction.com

MetroParks Ice Rink Through February. Get out and skate on the region's largest

outdoor ice rink! It measures 70 feet by 150 feet and is sheltered under a pavilion. The rink has something for everyone: beginners’ lessons, open skating, broomball and curling, not to mention hot chocolate and music. Ice skating is a great way to experience the outdoors during the cooler weather and provides a winter tradition for Miami Valley families looking for something fun to do together. • Location: Five Rivers MetroParks, metroparks.org/ice-rink/

PNC Festival of Lights Through January 9. The Cincinnati Zoo will still be shining bright as we’re once again transformed into a “Wild Wonderland” for the 39th annual PNC Festival of Lights! In addition to admiring the beauty of 4 million LED lights, visitors can ride the North Polar Express train ride, marvel at the spectacular Wild Lights show on Swan Lake, or snack at one of two S’mores-n-More stands. • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, cincinnatizoo.org/events/festival-of-lights

SAT 29 Family Festival: Ice, Ice Baby Join them for a meet and greet with a real live penguin from the WAVE Foundation. Stop by for some frosty fun as you experiment with ice painting, design a frozen snow crown and take part in an epic snowball battle. • Location: Contemporary Arts Center,

NOW THROUGH FEBRUARY

ONGOING EVENTS

Trains and Traditions: A Cincinnati Holiday Through January 9. Experience a tapestry of colorful poinsettias,charming garden railways and beautiful replicas of Cincinnati landmarks createdout of “Botanical Architecture” by local artisans; Applied Imagination. Krohn Conservatory is where holiday traditions take place in the warmth of thetropics. • Location: Krohn Conservatory, cincinnatiparks.com/krohn/

Winter Escape Through January 31.

Come in from the cold and visit the Junction this January! Save $2 off a full-price Do-It-All ticket, when you purchase online!! Plus, their 1st Class Boarding Pass members can Bring-A-Friend FREE! • Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, entertrainmentjunction.com

Hamilton January 26 through February 6.

Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, HAMILTON has taken the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton and created a revolutionary moment in theatre—a musical that has had a profound impact on culture, politics, and education. • Location: Schuster Center,

Martin's Dream January 17 through February 28. Back by popular demand! Who was Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., really? Martin’s Dream answers this question and more as it brings this historical figure to life through the power of story, speech, and song. Watch as Dr. King tells the story of his life, from his childhood in the Deep South all the way to the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, where he delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. • Location: Virtual, thechildrenstheatre.com/shows/ martins-dream-21-22/

Harriet Tubman: Straight Up Outta’ The Underground Touring January 17 through February 28. Bring the past to the present and change the future with this one-woman interactive storytelling experience.

Uncover the truth about America’s 200-year-old struggle with slavery when you play a part in this historic retelling. On this journey, you’ll follow Harriet Tubman, the most recognized conductor of the Underground Railroad. • thechildrenstheatre. com/shows/harriet-tubman-21-22/

Skating and Bumper Cars at the UC Health Ice Rink Through February 22. Gather up the family and head to the outdoor ice arena that takes over Fountain Square in Downtown Cincinnati this holiday season! Amenities include everything from rental skates to lockers for securing visitors’ belongings while they’re having fun on the ice, plus a full-service concessions tent will carry soda, hot and cold snacks, and alcoholic beverages for skaters to enjoy. Check website for reservation information and pricing. • Location: Fountain Square, myfountainsquare.com/ice-rink/

The Science Behind Pixar The interactive exhibition showcases the boundless limits of STEM, imagination and curiosity, thrilling you as you come face-to-face with popular characters, including Buzz Lightyear, Dory, Mike and Sulley, Edna Mode and WALL•E. • Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, Through April 24.

cincymuseum.org/pixar

daytonlive.org/events/Hamilton

Penguin Days Through March 11.

Waddle to the Zoo and enjoy discounted admission during Penguin Days! • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Time: 10 am- 5 pm, cincinnatizoo.org

PLEASE NOTE 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.

January 2022 I ohParent.com

33

SW OHIO PARENT'S

fun & SUN

WACKY

calendar 01.2022

MON

TUES

WEDS

THURS

FRI

SAT

1 NEW YEAR'S DAY

2

3 CHOCOLATE COVERED CHERRY DAY

NATIONAL BUFFET DAY

9

STATIC ELECTRICITY DAY

16

17 JR

WORLD RELIGION DAY

23

CROISSANT DAY

30

34

BELLY LAUGH DAY

24

ohParent.com I January 2022

11 NATIONAL MILK DAY

NATIONAL THESAURUS DAY

25

31

6 NATIONAL BEAN DAY

12 MARZIPAN DAY

18

OPPOSITE DAY

BUBBLE WRAP DAY

5 BIRD DAY

NATIONAL TRIVIA DAY

10 HOUSEPLANT APPRECIATION DAY

MEASURE YOUR FEET DAY

4

NATIONAL STICKER DAY

14

20

27 CHOCOLATE CAKE DAY

22

21

SQUIRREL APPRECIATION DAY

AUSTRALIA DAY

15

INTERNATIONAL KITE DAY

CHEESE LOVERS DAY

26

BUBBLE BATH DAY

STRAWBERRY ICE CREAM DAY

19 MUSEUM SELFIE DAY

HARLMEM GLOBETROTTERS DAY

13

8

7

HOT SAUCE DAY

28 INTERNATIONAL LEGO DAY

29 NATIONAL PUZZLE DAY