Southwest Ohio Parent January 2023

A Healthy, Happy New Year

I’ll just say it: I don’t enjoy exercising. It makes me sweaty and messes up my hair. I need to change into different clothes to do it. It takes time out of my day, it’s boring and tedious, and there are so many other things I can think of that I want to be doing.

But despite all that, I try to exercise every day. Sometimes it’s 30 minutes on the elliptical at the gym, and sometimes it’s a long walk. But no matter how I do it, I take the time to move my body every day. It started as a way to help my physical health. Now, I exercise for my mental health, too, because it turns out the experts were right: Moving your body every day helps relieve stress.

But I’m no superhero. I don’t have the secret to exercising regularly. Over time, it’s just become a non-negotiable part of my day, like brushing my teeth. I never — I repeat, never — want to exercise, for all of those reasons above, plus many others. But I have never — I repeat, never — regretted doing it. Taking that time for myself has always been worth it.

January is the month for resolutions. Year after year, one of the most popular resolutions has been to exercise more. If you find yourself with that resolution too, and you need some motivation, read “Fitting in Fitness When You Have Kids” on page 28. I have personally used all of the tips listed in the article at one point or another along my fitness journey. I can vouch for it! They will all help you to get out of the door (or out of bed) and move your body.

Fitness is a form of self care, so no matter where you are on your fitness journey — give yourself grace! Do what you can, when you can. Being kind to yourself is always a good resolution.

Here’s to a happy and healthy 2023!

PUBLISHER

Mary Wynne Cox mary@ohparent.com

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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SW Ohio Parent is published monthly. Copyright 2023 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.

say cheese! Local kids

Ellie (1)

Adyant

Briceton (10) and Sommer (8)

Shivaya (2)

Gurvani (3), Trisha (9) and Aasees (1)

Kamari (2)

HIDDEN GEMS

GiGi's Playhouse

Newly opened in Loveland, GiGi’s Playhouse isn’t on just any mission. They’re on an important mission of inclusivity and to see a world where individuals with Down syndrome are lovingly embraced within families, schools and communities.

educational development and global acceptance. The playhouse offers gross motor, fine motor, fitness, speech and language therapy, as well as one-on-one tutoring in literacy and math. GiGi’s goal-oriented programs help prepare young adults for a career through self confidence, real-world skills, health and wellness.

The 56th GiGi’s Playhouse location to open in North America and the only playhouse in Southwest Ohio features 5,000 square feet of safe, functional space for families experiencing Down syndrome to learn and grow.

Programs at GiGi’s Playhouse offer foundational learning opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome. Playhouse programs are key in allowing space for parents and caregivers to network and support each other through healthy communication. GiGi’s supports families blindsided by a Down syndrome diagnosis and helps parents overcome challenging expectations both socially and educationally.

A lifetime commitment, GiGi’s Playhouse highlights program devotion to therapeutic, career and

GiGi’s Playhouse offers local events, such as Fall Fest, Brew Ha-Ha and the upcoming Dueling Pianos fundraiser. On February 18 at Oasis Conference Center in Loveland, the community is invited for a rocking night of fun, food, dancing and music. Support GiGi’s mission and learn more about the playhouse’s educational and therapeutic activities.

With global acceptance at its core, GiGi’s Playhouse breaks down barriers around a Down syndrome diagnosis. Families can participate in purposeful, research-backed programs free of charge.

732 Middleton Way Suite 200, Loveland

gigisplayhouse.org/Cincinnati

Notes

Did You

SW Ohio Parent Wins Six Awards for Editorial & Design

Our staff at Southwest Ohio Parent is beaming with pride! Our magazine and website were recognized at the 2022 Parenting Media Association’s Design & Editorial Awards, and we took home SIX awards, including gold for our Wacky Calendar, gold for our September 2021 cover, and gold for our website, ohparent.com. What a great way to end 2022!

catch a broadway show in Cincinnati

This winter, enjoy the best of Broadway practically in your own backyard. Broadway in Cincinnati presents two shows you won’t want to miss this season, both happening at the Aronoff Center in Cincy.

Inspired by the beloved films, Anastasia (January 3-15) is an adventure-filled new musical from the Tony Awardwinning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime. Be transported from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past.

Annie returns to the stage (Feb. 7-12) to remind generations of theater goers that sunshine is always right around the corner. One of the best-loved musical of all time, Annie is just as you remember it and here just when we need it most.

For tickets to these and other Broadway in Cincinnati shows, visit cincinnati.broadway.com

THAT’S THE AVERAGE TEMPERATURE, IN DEGREES, IN OHIO DURING THE MONTH OF JANUARY. bundle up!

Know?

A 2015 study by Time revealed that babies born in January and February showed higher levels of creativity and imaginative problem-solving.

interesting

about

COVER PHOTO BY Gabrielle Cheikh Photography gcphotography.com

Starting the New Year with Gratitude

Between school parties, too much sugar, and events almost every evening, it’s no wonder that a lot of kids and families feel stress around the beginning of the new year. If this season has drained you and your family, start your year by spending time practicing gratitude.

Spending time thinking about the good things in your life can make you healthier — in mind and body!

Gratitude helps:

• raise energy levels

• boost self-esteem

• build and improve relationships

• reduce stress

But how do you get started?

Talk to your children about noticing the things that they are grateful for. Challenge them to come up with different things. Maybe today you ask them to think about people they’re thankful for. Tomorrow you might ask about their favorite things in the house or at school. Try to keep going with different topics and ask your kids for ideas too. It can be fun to think of all the different kinds of things that you enjoy.

Making It a Habit

Once you’ve started, keep it going! Now is the perfect time to start new habits to increase mental wellness.

Gratitude Journals – Write down a few things each day that you’re grateful for. This can be really meaningful to go back through later and remember what kinds of things you were grateful for a few weeks or months ago.

Sharing at Meals – Take a moment at the beginning or end of a meal together to name something each of you are grateful for.

Grateful Jar – Encourage everyone in your house to write or draw something they’re grateful for on scraps of paper and put them in a jar or other see-through container in a central location. Take them out and read them together every few weeks or months.

Start Your Own Tradition –

There’s no right or wrong way to express gratitude! If what helps your family is to talk about what you’re grateful for while waiting for the school bus in the mornings, that’s great.

Join the Movement

On Our Sleeves is on a mission to provide free, evidence-informed mental health resources and information to families in our community. By joining the movement, you'll receive even more resources to go along with our monthly content like free downloads and craft activities!

Visit childrensdayton.org/ onoursleeves to learn more and join the movement today.

35 things TO DO THIS WINTER

IN SOUTHWEST OHIO

The temperature might be dropping, but there are lots of fun things to do this winter in our area.

THE GRAY DAYS OF JANUARY ARE HERE, BUT COLD TEMPS SHOULDN’T KEEP YOU STUCK AT HOME — ESPECIALLY CONSIDERING THERE ARE SO MANY FUN THINGS TO DO IN SOUTHWEST OHIO DURING THE WINTER! IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING FUN FOR THE FAMILY TO DO ON COLD DAYS, SNOW DAYS OR JUST ANY OL’ DAY, HERE ARE SOME OF OUR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO IN SOUTHWEST OHIO IN THE WINTER WITH KIDS.

Try out a family art class at the Weston Art Gallery or the Taft Museum of Art, both located in Cincy.

Go bowling! For a unique twist, try duckpin bowling at Pins Mechanical Company or Scene75 Cincinnati.

Have a family game night at the Play Library in Cincy, where you can choose from more than 1,00 games to play.

Head inside for a round of glow-in-the-dark mini golf at Scene75 Dayton or Glowgolf in Cincy.

Take a road trip to visit a new-to-you children's museum Cross state lines to visit The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, or keep it in-state by visiting the Akron Children’s Museum or Little Buckeye Children’s Museum in Mansfield.

Sign up for a kid-friendly food class, like the kids’ cooking classes offered at The Learning Kitchen in West Chester or The Little City Cooking School in Dayton.

Take your little astronomers to the Cincinnati Observatory to tour the historic buildings and look through telescopes (weather permitting).

Heat up with a hot glass class Neusole Glassworks in Forest Park offers a variety of classes for ages 5 years and older.

Lace up your skates and visit a local ice rink

Dine in an igloo. You’ll find them all around Southwest Ohio, including at Catch-a-Fire Pizza in Blue Ash and DeSha’s American Tavern in Cincy.

Reach new heights at an indoor climbing studio, like Mosiac in Loveland or Urban Krag Climbing Center in Dayton.

Burn some energy at an indoor playground , like Wonderland Playground in Cincy, Recreations Outlet in Milford or Kid Clubhouse in Springboro.

Make a splash at an i ndoor pool, like Goldfish Swim School or The Swim School at Kids First Sports Center.

Play and read at your favorite local library.

Enjoy a family movie and a meal at AMC Dine-In Anderson Towne Center 9 or Cinepolis Dayton.

Visit your favorite local museum and see what’s new. The Cincinnati Museum Center is always a good idea!

Visit a nature center, like the ones at Cincinnati Nature Center or Sharon Woods.

Work out your inner ninja by parkouring around an obstacle course at USA Ninja Challenge in Cincinnati.

Discover the wonders of an underwater world at Newport Aquarium

Warm up with a cup of coffee and cuddles from adoptable kitties at Kitty Brew Cat Cafe in Mason.

Learn about the environment at the Aullwood Audubon Center & Farm

Not afraid of the cold? Bundle up and visit your favorite outdoor playground . You might even get the playground to yourself if it's cold enough!

Learn about Ohio’s aviation and space history at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force near Dayton, or Cincinnati Museum Center’s Space Gallery.

Make tracks to Entertrainment Junction, home of the largest train display in the world.

Strike a pose as a family at Picture Yourselfie, a selfie museum in Milford.

Winter is the perfect time to learn to knit. Find sewing, knitting or crocheting classes for your kids, and maybe they will make you something warm to wear!

Go sledding at one of Southwest Ohio’s favorite sledding hills, like the ones at Summit Park and Stanbery Park.

Take a road trip to go snow tubing at Perfect North Slopes in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, located only 30 minutes from Cincy.

Have an old-fashioned tea party at the BonBonerie in Cincinnati or Communitea in Dayton.

Get creative and make a wearable piece of art at Kaleidoscope Colors & Co. in Cincinnati.

Take a 3+ hour trip north to try your hand at snow tubing at Boston Mills & Brandywine Ski Resorts in Peninsula, Ohio.

Treat your family to a fun sweet treat from a local bakery like La Puf in Beavercreek or Aglamesis Bro’s in Cincy.

Give back to our community by volunteering as a family. Family-friendly organizations like Life Food Pantry in Loveland and the Bethany House in Cincinnati need your help all year round.

Bundle up and enjoy a winter hike at your favorite local park .

Explore your neighborhood with your family by foot, or make it interesting by making it into a unique scavenger hunt around the city.

Local Spotlight: Bold and Brave Kid’s Foundation

Providing fully furnished and equipped temporary apartments for families of children being treated for cancer at the Cincinnati Children’s Proton Therapy Center.

Bold and Brave Kid’s Foundation is on a mission to provide families a place to call home when cancer forces them to be brave.

Southwest Ohio Parent spoke to April Montgomery, the president and executive director of the nonprofit, to learn how and why this organization started.

How did your organization get started?

I founded Bold and Brave Kid's Foundation in 2015 after hearing that Cincinnati Children's Hospital was building a proton therapy center. My daughter was diagnosed with cancer in 2006 at the age of 17½ months and it was determined that proton therapy was the only treatment to save her life.  She and I lived in Connecticut at the time and there were two proton centers in the world, and only one of them treated children: Massachusetts General Hospital.

We moved to Boston for two months and were offered a two-bedroom apartment across from the hospital. That experience was life-changing for me as it afforded me the opportunity to run across the street to the ER when she needed immediate medical care. It gave me immense comfort to know that she would be safe and that expert care was minutes away. We also had enough room to have family over to help with her care and to visit

with me. I couldn't imagine going through a pediatric cancer diagnosis and subsequent radiation treatment without having that apartment to go back to each night. When I saw that CCHMC was opening a proton

center, I knew that the way for me to pay it forward was to start this foundation and to offer housing to families coming to Ohio for treatment. We have families from all over the world stay with us.

What is proton therapy?

Different from conventional radiation treatments (often known as photons or X-rays), proton radiation stops after delivering its dosage to cancer cells and therefore spares the healthy surrounding tissue. This allows the treatment of tumors that are located next to critical organs such as the brain, heart, spinal cord and lungs as well as limiting damage to other

growing cells. This is especially important when treating children whose organs are still forming and developing. Long-term effects of radiation to areas other than the tumor include higher rates of secondary tumors and damage to other organs and tissues that are essential to living a full life.

Tell us about the new extended-stay apartments being built at the Children’s Hospital Liberty Campus in Butler County.

There will be 12 in total, 1,300 square foot ADA-compliant apartments for families to use while their child is receiving treatment at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. Each apartment has two bedrooms and two full-sized bathrooms so kids and parents can have privacy at the end of the day. The units will be fully furnished and include a washer and dryer. We also designed the spaces to have outdoor areas so people can get outside. There is a front porch and rear patio on each unit. We hope the units will be available in May 2023.

How can people get involved with the Bold and Brave Kid’s Foundation?

We are always looking for volunteers to help and welcome people to reach out to me at amontgomery@ boldandbravekids.org

The Peach Cobbler Factory

January is a chilly month to embrace all-things comfy and cozy, like the deliciously warm cobblers, pudding and cinnamon rolls served up at The Peach Cobbler Factory in West Chester.

The Peach Cobbler Factory first opened in 2013 in Nashville, TN, and has committed to creating a premium line of comfort desserts made “just like grandma used to make them.” Local franchisee, Deneen Glenn, keeps true to her roots as a graduate of the Midwest Culinary Institute at Cincinnati State and owner of NeeNee’s Pretzels.

The menu is enticingly packed full of 14 cobblers, 13 banana puddings, six cinnamon rolls and an assortment of dessert flights, beverages and vanilla ice cream. Variations of cobbler include caramel apple, blackberry, strawberry,

sweet potato, cinnamon praline peach and more. For the banana pudding lover, choose between bourbon pecan, Oreo, coconut creme, NY cheesecake, red velvet and Nutella.

Dessert flights allow you to choose four of your favorite cobblers and puddings. Each flavor comes in a 4-ounce jar and is the best way to sample many flavors at once. For the picky kiddo, gooey cinnamon rolls like Nutella, maple, vanilla, orange and apple butter go perfectly with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The adventurous eater will delight in a stuffed cinnamon roll: your choice of cobbler or pudding stuffed into a freshly iced cinnamon roll.

7736 Dudley Dr., West Chester

peachcobblerfactory.com

WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

Choosing where your child goes to school is a big decision. From traditional public schools and private schools, to charter schools and magnet schools, to online academies and homeschooling — there are lots of options! With so many incredible options, your head can be left spinning as you try to decipher what each of these schools has to offer.

We understand how overwhelming it can all be. To help you in your search for the right fit, we have compiled a list of some of the types of schools and what makes them unique.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Public schools are funded by local, state and/or federal governments. Public schools may have fees you pay at the beginning of the year, but there is no monthly tuition, making it a good economic option for families. Public schools do participate in standardized testing and their curriculum must adhere to state and federal regulations. Traditional subjects — such as reading, writing, arithmetic, science, social studies, P.E. and fine arts — are offered. At the middle- and high-school levels, students have the opportunity to handpick courses based on their interests. Extracurricular activities are a big part of public schooling, allowing students to participate in sports, music, fine arts, student government and other subjects. Your public school is chosen for you based on where you live and the zoning for your school district.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Private schools are not funded by the government, so there is a tuition required for students to attend. Many schools do offer scholarships, so if you feel this is a good fit for your child but are worried about finances, be sure to contact the institution to find out what the options might be. Private schools might have a specific area of focus and typically will have smaller classrooms, making the student-teacher ratio less than that in a public school. There are several kinds of private schools, such as university-preparatory schools, that have a goal of preparing students to enter college; boarding schools, which provide both an education and place to live; and religiously-affiliated schools, which offer religious education.

CHARTER SCHOOLS

Charter schools are tuition-free schools that are publicly funded but independently run. You do not have to be zoned to a particular school, but instead can choose to apply to a charter school of your choice. Charter schools might emphasize a particular field of study such as arts and technology, or they may serve special populations such as disabled or at-risk students. Charter schools are established by teachers, parents or community groups and often have increased parental involvement and the feel of being in a tight-knit community.

MAGNET SCHOOLS

Magnet schools are part of the public school system, offering special instruction and programs focused on a specific area of study such as science, technology, math, gifted and talented, engineering, performing arts, world language or career education. You can apply to a magnet school in your

district regardless of where you are zoned. Because of this, magnet schools are designed to attract a more diverse student body with specific interests throughout a school district.

ONLINE ACADEMIES

Many of us became familiar with doing things remotely during the pandemic, but online schools are different from emergency remote learning or doing classes on Zoom. Most online schools are public, which means there is no tuition required. Online schooling can be a great option for students who need flexible schedules, such as those with medical issues, competitive athletes, performance artists and students who need a break from a negative environment due to things such as bullying. Some families choose online schooling so that they may travel and experience other things that traditional schooling would not allow. Online students follow a set curriculum and submit assignments through an online platform. They receive feedback and grades through accredited teachers. Online programs usually ask parents to be involved in their child’s education and help them to stay on track.

HOMESCHOOLING

Homeschooling is parent-directd education. Many families choose homeschooling for the freedom it provides, such as choosing your own curriculum, focusing on your child’s interests or learning style and a daily schedule customized to your family's needs. Some homeschooling families choose to hire tutors, or have their children attend classes (co-ops) with other homeschooled students. Each state has its own laws and regulations for homeschooling. If this is the right fit for your family, you will want to look into what those requirements are as you are planning the curriculum and education plan for your child.

Bishop Leibold's AwardWinning STEM Program

At Bishop Leibold School, we are serious about Science and Math Instruction, but we are also serious about making it engaging, exciting and fun!

One doesn’t need to look hard to see the results of our focus on academic excellence. Bishop Leibold is a U.S Department of Education National Blue Ribbon of Excellence and a recipient of twelve Ohio Governor’s Awards for Excellence in STEM Education.

“The recognition that Bishop Leibold School receives from the Ohio Academy of Science-twelve years in a row now never gets old! We take our programs seriously!” says Dr. Wallace, Principal at Bishop Leibold Scool.

STEM is the focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. The STEM mission provides students with engaging lessons, designed to promote inquiry, critical thinking, and problem solving. STEM is weaved throughout so much of our instruction starting in preschool and all Bishop Leibold Students in grades K-8 have a weekly STEM session. Our students learn in a constructive way that failure is the beginning of the next step!

sometimes having to think outside the box. It's so amazing to see the creative solutions that students can achieve!” says Jill Klimaski, 3rd Grade STEM teacher.

Formal STEM instruction is supplemented by amazing cocurricular and extra-curricular clubs and events. Our students are involved in clubs like Green Team and STEMpm and participate in ScienceFEST, where older students present and model their science fair projects to they younger students and community at large.

Bishop Leibold’s focused STEM instruction equips our graduates with the tools they need think creatively and become future problem solvers.

Visit us online and learn more today at BishopLeibold.org .

“Each STEM class allows students to work together to solve 'real-world' problems and find solutions by

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Staying Safe While Home Alone

Safety tips for when your older kid is at home without you.

Remember the days when you couldn’t imagine what it would be like to have a moment to yourself, much less actually leaving the house while your kids stayed at home by themself? Well, as we know, the years go fast, and what once seemed like an eternity away has now arrived at your doorstep.

But just because your child is old enough to stay at home, does not mean they will automatically know the rules for staying home safe. Here is a list of safety tips for tweens and teens (and parents!) who are experiencing this new level of independence.

Don’t Be Like Kevin

Yes, your tween is staying home alone. And unlike poor Kevin’s McCallister’s mom from the movie Home Alone, this time at home is expected. But the last thing you want is a Home Alone experience. Instead of fighting the bad guys on their own, it’s important for kids to know what to do in case of an emergency. Have a list of emergency numbers and contacts handy, and run through scenarios so your child knows what to do if an emergency arises.

Have a Neighbor on Standby

In addition to an emergency contact list, find a neighbor who will be home and let them know your child may be reaching out if needed. That way, if your child has an unexpected need, they know someone in the neighborhood is right there to help.

Keep the Doors Locked

It seems obvious, but lock the doors and let your child know they need to keep the doors locked. And, definitely never answer the door for a stranger.

To Cook or Not to Cook?

You know your child’s skill set. If your child is a little chef in the making, then it shouldn’t be a problem to let them make food while you are away. On the other hand, if they’ve never used the oven or stove before, then cooking while they are home alone probably isn’t the best time to gain those skills. Have them prepare food that is well within their expertise, and if they want to learn how to make more, set aside time to practice while you are home.

What About the Siblings?

Every child is different and nobody knows your child better than you. If your child is responsible enough, they might be able to watch their younger siblings while you are away. If they’ve never watched them before, be sure you go over the rules and the schedule.

Sometimes, offering a little monetary compensation will go a long way. Consider adding some money to their allowance, or even giving them an hourly rate, for the help they are providing.

How Long is Too Long?

How long you stay away will depend on your child’s age and level of maturity. Some kids will do great over long periods of time, while others may need to be home alone for shorter stints. You can start off by leaving for a short time, and gradually increase the hours. Before you know it, you and your spouse will be able to have long date nights while the kids stay home - and even get themselves to bed. Can you imagine?

It can be both freeing, and nerve racking, when our children are old enough to finally stay home alone. You know your child’s capabilities and can trust that with a little preparation and discussion of rules and boundaries, they will do great on their own. And you will enjoy a new found freedom!

CHILDCARE & PRESCHOOL

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

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, 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

EDUCATION GUIDE

MONTESSORI Central Montessori Academy

At Central Montessori Academy, children from toddler (18 months) - 6th grade are taught by Montessori-trained teachers in environments that cultivate their natural love for learning. Children learn and develop self-confidence, personal creativity, grace & courtesy, and entrepreneurial spirit at their own pace, building self-esteem, while being taught as individuals. We offer extended day programs for both before and after-school. Call today to schedule a tour! • 1904 Springdale Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45231, Phone: (513) 742-5800, centralmontessoriacademy.com

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

Creative World of Montessori

Creative World of Montessori focuses on the comprehensive education of students from age 3 to 12th grade throughout the Dayton region and the greater Miami Valley area. Designed to ignite a passion for learning while developing important life skills, Montessori education at Creative World of Montessori encourages active learning and helps build a well rounded, engaged student. We have locations in Miamisburg, Beavercreek, and Centerville. We also have preschools and learning center programs across the Miami Valley. • 6833 Wilmington Pike, Centerville, Ohio 45459, Phone: (866) 866-7339, Inspirechildren.com

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

St. Helen School

Welcome to St. Helen where an amazing sense of community leads to academic excellence! Every day we strive to build character by living virtuously. Our ministry to model Catholic morals, values, and traditions while providing a structured, nurturing environment for each student to grow spiritually, academically, and emotionally. Our focus on faith formation and academic excellence prepares students to be life-long learners. A community that celebrates diversity, we welcome families all over the Miami Valley including military families from WPAFB. • 5086 Burkhardt Road Riverside, OH 45431, Phone: (937) 256.1761, sainthelenschool.org

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

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

FITTING IN FITNESS WHEN YOU HAVE KIDS

It might feel challenging to find time to exercise, but it’s important to make time for self-care.

WORDS BY LINDSAY CONNER

WITH CHILDREN AT HOME — ESPECIALLY YOUNG KIDS — IT’S DIFFICULT TO FIND TIME TO FIT IN WORKOUTS. BUT IT’S POSSIBLE TO MAKE TIME FOR YOUR HEALTH! HERE ARE SOME EASY, CREATIVE WAYS TO REACH YOUR FITNESS GOALS AND BE A GREAT PARENT AT THE SAME TIME.

Make it a Family Affair

Instead of sneaking off to the gym, why not get your kids involved in planning a fun family workout? Use exercise cards or dice to create a workout with jumping jacks, burpees, mountain climbers, pretend jump rope, plank contests, crunches and sit-ups. If possible, plan the workout at a specific time and make it a part of your daily routine. After your workout, hydrate and consider healthy meal prep!

Some of the best cardio workouts can happen while interacting with your children. “Make it fun and include the kids,” suggests Colleen O’Connell, owner and instructor of FIT4MOM Central Cincinnati. “Cardio exercise doesn’t need to be 20 minutes on a treadmill or a Peloton. You can get your heart rate up playing tag or a sport with your little one. Put some music on and have a dance party with your family. If you have a really little one, put them in the stroller and go for walks or runs.”

Find Accountability

One of the most important factors in sticking with a fitness plan is finding accountability. Call a friend to workout with and invite them over once or twice a week. A group exercise class can provide you with camaraderie to stick with your goals year-round. For instance, morning stroller fitness classes offer a great way to exercise with your little one while also meeting other new parents and bonding with your baby.

Don’t forget about fitness classes at the Y! If you hold a Family Membership, the YMCA of Greater Dayton offers free Child Watch services for kids ages 6 weeks to 9 years old while their parent uses the gym. The YMCA of Greater Cincinnati provides a Kids Club to children while their parent works out or attends a class. If you're a new mom, a personal trainer who is knowledgeable about proper workouts and form can help you with postpartum recovery.

Set Goals and Rewards

Want to make time for fitness? Writing down your goals is a powerful way to attain them! You can motivate yourself by setting healthy rewards. For example, if you complete a 3-mile run, you can book a massage. Or if you squat your goal weight, treat yourself to

new shoes. Make it simple, fun and for you! Not only will you benefit, but your family will have the healthiest, happiest mom possible.

“Schedule it just like you would a doctor’s appointment,” O’Connell says. “Exercise is important for your physical health but also your mental and emotional health.” You have to take care of yourself so you can take care of your little ones. Prioritize making time for fitness. This time every day will help you stay fit, healthy and refreshed to give your family the very best of yourself.

Break it Up

You do not have to do a workout at one time, but if you break it up and do 5 minutes just 6 times a day, that's 30 minutes of working out. Exercise doesn’t need to be complicated—adding more intentional movement throughout the day and weeks add up. “When you're on the floor playing with your little one, hold a plank,” O’Connell suggests. “Add some extra lunges or squats when you're bending down to pick up toys or some bicep curls with those heavy grocery bags when you’re bringing them in.” Naptime can also be a great time to fit in a workout at home when you have

young children. You don't need fancy machines or weights. All you need is your body and a few minutes throughout the day to make a difference in your physical and mental health.

Wake Up Early

Setting an alarm to exercise before the kids wake up is a great motivator. Why not get up early and get in your workout before the kids are out of bed? This gives you an opportunity to take care of yourself before you have to take care of everyone else! There is a great sense of accomplishment when you've gotten up and been productive and cared for yourself first.

“I always tell people to do what you can, when you can, where you can, and give yourself grace,” O’Connell recommends. “Parenting demands a lot from us and requires us to be flexible for the constantly changing needs of our workload and season of life.”

THINGS TO DO

SUN 01 Light in the Forest Enjoy a peaceful walk in the winter woods at the annual holiday lights event! The expanded trail will feature a beautifully lit forest, new installation, added children’s activities, live music, a bonfire, a historic home with nature inspired decorations and holiday shopping. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center Time: 5:30-9p cincynature.org

the perfect trees strapped to their roofs. • Location: Cincinnati Museum Center Time: 10a-5p cincymuseum. org/holiday-junction

MON 02 Family Storytime It is story time! Bring your entire family to enjoy stories, activities, songs and fun while building literacy skills.

• Location: Cheviot Library Branch Time: 10:30a chpl. org FREE

Christmas at the Junction 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 Time: 12p-6p entertrainmentjunction.com

SUN 01– MON 02 Coney Island

Monday Night Football Watch the Bengals take on Buffalo for Monday Night Football! Join the watch party on Fountain Square at 5p. • Location: Paycor Stadium Time: 8:30p bengals.com

TUES 03 Movers and Shakers

THURS

05 Preschool Nature

Storytime Bring your “wild ones” to the Clifton Branch Library for two unique offerings. Story Time with Mr. Eric and a Nature Encounter with Mr. Mike! Bring the entire family to enjoy books, songs, and nature activities with the Public Library of Cincinnati and Cincinnati Parks. • Location: Clifton Branch Time: 10:30a-11a cincinnatioh.gov FREE

FRI 06 Play and Learn Facilitators from Best Point lead young children and their parents/ caregivers through a play experience designed to promote cognitive, language and social-emotional development. We'll have fun singing songs, telling stories, creating art, playing, and enjoying a snack. Registration is required. • Location: Amelia Library Branch Time: 10:30a clermontlibrary.org

Night of Lights

This Cincinnati holiday classic is back. Your family will love driving through the region’s largest synchronized holiday light spectacular. Experience more than one million lights synchronized to a mix of traditional and rocking holiday music. Visitors of all ages will be awed by larger-than-life Christmas trees, glowing snowflakes, dancing candy canes, fantastic tunnels of lights, and more. • Location: Coney Island Time: 5p coneyislandpark.com

Duke Energy Holiday Junction

Sing, dance and enjoy music, movement and fun. • Location: Delhi Library Branch Time: 10:15a chpl.org FREE

WED 04 Wednesday Playdate

Adults, bring your children to meet other children as they play with educational toys geared towards social emotional learning. Recommended for families with children ages 1-6. • Location: Northside Library Branch Time: 10a chpl.org FREE

SAT 07 Curious Kid Explorers Club

Curious Kids Explorers Club! Explore the world through stories, songs, activities and discussions. A new adventure every month! Best for 1st-3rd grade kids. • Location: Clifton Library Branch Time: 11a chpl.org FREE

CAM Kids Day: Winter Wonderland

Trains

The Duke Energy Holiday Trains have been a Cincinnati holiday staple since 1946, delighting generations since they first debuted downtown in 1946. Track-level views reveal intricate details of the display, where over 300 rail cars and 60 locomotives steam past anxious passengers waiting to board while cars sit with snow to their hubcaps and

REC Reads Bring your toddler or preschooler to the Rosenthal Education Center for a morning of art-themed story books, songs, and sensory activities.

• Location: Cincinnati Art Museum Time: 11:30a cincinnatiartmuseum.org

Spend the morning in our galleries with hands-on preschool activities then enjoy a family-friendly performance. • Location: Cincinnati Art Museum Time: 11a cincinnatiartmuseum.org

SAT 07–SUN 08

Winter Blow

Out Sale Shop the CNC fabulous Winter Blow Out Sale and find hot deals on all the coolest Cincinnati Nature Center stuff 25-90% off! • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center Time: 10a-5p cincynature.org

SUN 08 Cincinnati Royal Princess Ball

Your little one will get to participate in princess games, story time sing along, learn some ballroom dance moves and more. Our event is geared towards your 3 - 7 year old princess fan, though all are welcome! • Location: Cincinnati Airport Marriott Time: 10a-1:30p dreampartyforyou.com

Sunday Family Dinner Cruise

Experience the Mighty Ohio River with the whole family on our Sunday Family Dinner Cruise. Guests will enjoy a wonderful buffet meal, a two-hour river cruise, and a DJ for entertainment. And with an earlier cruise time, you can have great family fun and still get the kids to bed on time. • Location: BB Riverboats Time: 5:30p bbriverboats.com

MON 09 CAC Homeschool Join the Contemporary Arts Center for a special workshop focusing on contemporary art for students. Stop by the library to participate in hands-on art making, learn about contemporary artists and take home an extended learning sheet. • Location: Symmes Library Time: 1p chpl.org

Tech Basics 101 Never say "I'm computer illiterate" again! For individuals with limited to no experience using computers. Learn the fundamental skills that every computer user needs to know. Registration Required. • Location: Downtown Main Library Time: 10a chpl.org FREE

FRI 13 Dayton Funk Night Join the MetroParks on select Friday evenings in January and February for our theme nights! Skate along to your favorite tunes, played by a live DJ! Enjoy a cup of delicious cocoa from the Cafe and warm up in the Kettering Health Comfort Tent during your visit. • Location: RiverScape MetroPark Time: 7-10p metroparks.org

Cyclones Hockey Help the Cyclones raise awareness and funds for the Dragonfly Foundation. The Cyclones will wear specialty jerseys to be auctioned off after the game. • Location: Heritage Bank Center Time: 7:30 cycloneshockey.com

FRI 13–SUN 15 Fishing Expo The National Fishing Expos - Cincinnati returns to the Sharonville Convention Center with one of the largest groups of handmade tackle, guides, clothing, accessories and Canadian outfitter vendors in the country. We've got the gear you need and deals you won't believe. Kids 17 and under are free. • Location: Sharonville Convention Center Time: Friday 12p-7p, Saturday 10a-6p, Sunday 10a-3p

SAT, JAN 07

CAM

KIDS DAY: WINTER WONDERLAND AT CINCINNATI ART MUSEUM

Cavalcade of Customs Bring your car-loving kiddo down to O’Reilley’s 63rd annual Cavalcade of Customs. • Location: Duke Energy Center Time: January 13-15, Friday 3-9p, Saturday 10a-9p, Sunday 10a-6p duke-energycenter.com

Creative Reuse One person's trash is another artist's treasure! Drop in with Indigo Hippo for art with recycled materials! • Location: Cincinnati Art Museum Time: 11a cincinnatiartmuseum.org

SUN 15 Maple Tapping Help CNC tap the trees as they start the sugaring season then come back next weekend to experience maple syrup making from the sap! • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center Time: 2-4p cincynature.org

MON 16 Sensory Storytime Engage the senses in this interactive storytime every 3rd Monday afternoon. This program is designed with autistic children in mind but is open to all children and their families. • Location: Cheviot Library Branch Time: 12:30p chpl.org FREE *SN

TUES 10

After School Art: Snowflakes in

Circles Create with liquid watercolors and watch snowflakes magically appear using a fun resist art technique. For ages 6-12. • Location: Reading Library Branch Time: 4-5p chpl.org FREE

FRI 13– MON 16 Young’s Jersey Dairy 154th Celebration Celebrate with Young’s Dairy with specials on the farm all week long. $1.54 off all cones, all burgers, Deep Fried Breaded Cheddar Cheese Curds, Chedda Cheese Crispys, 4 Pack Homemade Buckeyes, 1/2 Gallons of Homemade Ice Cream and kid’s meals. Specials on mini golf and cheese, too! • Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy youngsdairy.com

SAT 14 Heritage Kids Club Children

TUES 17 Feathered Friends Join a Naturalist from the Clermont County park district and learn basic identification skills, understand bird behaviors, and make a simple pine cone bird treat. • Location: Owensville Library Branch Time: 6:30-7:30p clermontlibrary.org FREE

WED 11 After School STEAM Join us after school to build your own Rube Goldberg machine. Your goal? Move a bouncy ball from one end of the meeting room to the other! This program is for ages 8-12. Registration is required. • Location: Westwood Library Branch Time: 3:15p-4p chpl.org FREE

THURS 12 Winter Adopt-a-Buddy

Young readers Pre-k through 4th grade can adopt a reading buddy to help encourage them to read. All buddies come with a poem and adoption certificate. Stop in any day during branch hours, pick out at least three children’s books, and adopt a new buddy. Limit one book buddy per child/month, while supplies last. • Location: Batavia Library Branch Time: 10a-6p clermontlibrary.org FREE

will learn about the history of early Cincinnati, as well as, the historic crafts, trades, and skills of its settlers. They will have the opportunity to explore the past with items from the Heritage Village Museum collections and exploration of the Village’s historic buildings. There will be related stories, activities, and a light snack provided. Everyone will have something to take home to show off their handiwork. Open to ages 5 through 15. • Location: Heritage Village Time: 9:30a-12p heritagevillagecincinnati.org

STEM Fun: Lava Lamps Create your own groovy lava lamp while learning the science of density. For ages 8-12, or younger with a grown-up. • Location: Reading Library Branch Time: 4p chpl.org FREE

WED 18 Teen Cafe Teens can enjoy games, challenges, crafts and other fun activities at the library. Hang out with Mallory Mahaffey, a prevention specialist with Greater Cincinnati Behavioral Health. • Location: Bethel Library Branch Time: 3-5p clermontlibrary.org

FRI-SUN, JAN 13-15 CAVALCADE OF CUSTOMS AT DUKE ENERGY CONVENTION CENTER

REC Reads Bring your toddler or preschooler to the Rosenthal Education Center for a morning of art-themed story books, songs, and sensory activities.

• Location: Cincinnati Art Museum Time: 11:30a cincinnatiartmuseum.org

THURS 19 Mysterious Mussels Have you found shells in rivers and lakes of Ohio? Rather than the seashells you might find on the beach, these are mysterious freshwater mussels. Join the Clermont County Park District for some fun activities to explore these strange critters. You’ll also get to make your own mussel and lure. • Location: Union Township Branch Library Time: 1:30p clermontlibrary.org FREE

FRI 20 90s Night Grab your friends and fanny packs and skate at the MetroParks Ice Rink to the biggest hits of the 90's, played by a live DJ! Children ages 3 and under are free with a paying adult. • Location: RiverScape MetroPark Time: 7-10p metroparks.org

Secret Life of Stars Twinkle, twinkle, little star… how I wonder, what you are. Well, now we know, and you can too! The big ones live fast and die young. Some eat their neighbors. While others go out with a bang! From nebulas and novae to star formation and more, this show has it all! Programs are open to adults and children ages 5 and older accompanied by an adult. • Location: Burnet Woods Time: 7p-8p cincinnati-oh.gov

Baby Tours: Texture Play 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 Time: 11a, 2p, 3p cincinnatiartmuseum.org

SAT 21 Artist Workshop Learn about techniques and materials used by professional artists in these fun, educational and hands-on workshops. • Location: Cincinnati Art Museum Time: 1p cincinnatiartmuseum.org

SUN 22 Maple Syrup Making Experience the whole process of producing liquid gold from maple sap. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center Time: 12-1p cincynature.org

MON 23 Pokemon Drawing Class, Class 1 In this 6-week class series, participants will learn how to draw a different Pokemon character each week. After drawing and coloring the image, attendants can spend the remaining class time trading cards. • Location: Nakama Studio Time: 5:30p nakamastudio.org

TUES 24 Healthy Snacks Keep that New Years’ Resolution by learning how to make your own after-school snacks. • Location: Amelia Branch Library Time: 4:30p clermontlibrary.org FREE

Wild Card Tuesday Come in for a new tween activity every third Tuesday of the month! Recommended for ages 8-12. All abilities welcome, no registration required. • Location: Mt. Healthy Library Branch Time: 4p chpl.org FREE

WED 25 Kids Adventure Challenge: Winter World Join Great Parks to face the unique winter themed challenges. Explore, learn and build community with other kids. Perfect for homeschoolers. Dress for the weather. Children must be accompanied by an adult. • Location: Glenwood Gardens Time: 11a-12:30p greatparks.org

THURS 26 Bert & Ernie Show: Turtle Tales Join the front desk staff inside the Rowe Visitor Center for a 10-20 minute miniprogram on our indoor native Eastern box turtles, Burt & Ernie. Please meet at the front desk of our Rowe Woods Visitor Center. No registration necessary for this drop-in program. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center Time: 11a cincynature.org

FRI 27 Queen Head to the MetroParks Ice Rink to rock out to Queen's biggest hits for our third Theme Night of the season! Children 3 and under are free with a paying adult. • Location: RiverScape MetroPark Time: 7-10p metroparks.org

FRI 27–SAT 28

Cyclones Hockey

Marvel Weekend Cyclones Fans Assemble!! Meet some of your favorite Marvel Super Heroes throughout the game and the Cyclones will wear specialty jerseys that will be auctioned off. • Location: Heritage Bank Center Time: 7:30p cycloneshockey.com

SAT 28

Sensory Saturday

Join CAM for a socially distanced version of the Cincinnati Art Museum program for families with children who have developmental disabilities. • Location: Cincinnati Art Museum Time; 11:30a cincinnatiartmuseum.org *SN

The Nikolai Tesla Story Travel back in time to the late 1800s and enter the dazzling mind of Nikola Tesla, a brilliant young engineer. Learn the true story of this often ignored inventor, whose work as a “mad scientist” eventually led to the Tesla coil, X-ray, RADAR, wireless energy, and artificial lighting. Reservations required. • Location: Memorial Hall Time: 12p and 2p memorialhallotr.com FREE

SUN 29 Tools of the Sugar House

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the maple syrup evaporator and sugaring tools like skimmers, filters, and thermometers. You will be able to look inside the sap storage tanks, help set up for the day’s programs, and help prepare the materials to fire up the evaporator. Preregistration required. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center Time: 11a-12p cincynature.org

MON 30 Pokemon Drawing Class, Class 2 In this 6-week class series, participants will learn how to draw a different Pokemon character each week. After drawing and coloring the image, attendants can spend the remaining class time trading cards. • Location: Nakama Studio Time: 5:30p nakamastudio.org

TUES 31 Curious Kids Club Join us each month as we explore science, technology, art, engineering and math in a fun and hands on way while using our imaginations! For ages 6-12. Capacity is limited, pre-register online. • Location: Anderson Library Branch Time: 4p chpl.org FREE

ONGOING

Winter Woodland January 1-20 Step out of the cold and into a cozy winter woodland scene right in Ellenwood Nature Barn! Make a craft and warm up from the winter weather by a log fire. • Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve/Ellenwood Nature Barn Time: 11a-3p greatparks.org FREE

Middletown Holiday Whopla

Through 16 Located in historic and charming downtown Middletown, the third annual Middletown Holiday Whopla features a state of the art ice skating rink, beer & wine garden, food trucks, and Holiday Whoville train rides. It is surrounded by larger than life interactive light displays, nestled amongst specialty shops, bars, restaurants, and so much more. Continue a family tradition or start a new one with us this holiday season! • Location: Middletown N. Broad Street holidaywhopla.com

FRI-SAT, JAN 27-28

CYCLONES HOCKEY MARVEL WEEKEND AT HERITAGE BANK CENTER

Fountain Square Ice Rink January 1-February 20 The UC Health Ice Rink, presented by Fifth Third Bank, is an outdoor ice arena that takes over Fountain Square daily through February. • Location: Fountain Square myfountainsquare.com

Anastasia January 3-15 Inspired by the beloved films, the romantic and adventure-filled new musical Anastasia is on a journey across America at last! From the Tony Award-winning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime, this dazzling show transports us from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s. • Location: Aronoff Center cincinnatiarts.org

Penguin Parades January 9- March 10 Penguin Parades are Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Holiday Mondays (Jan 16 & Feb 20) with special discounted zoo admission. It must be colder than 50 degrees for the penguins to participate in the Penguin Parades. • Location: Cincinnati Zoo Time: 11a and 2:30p cincinnatizoo.org

Celestial Holiday at Krohn Through January 7 Come to the Krohn Conservatory this holiday season to enjoy our Celestial Holiday. Krohn will be transformed into a glowing winter wonderland surrounded by the shimmering lights and twinkling stars. Join us for the unveiling of the newest landmark piece created by the talented artists of Applied Imagination, Music Hall! • Location: Krohn Conservatory Time: January 1-7, 10a-8p cincinnati-oh.gov

Festival of Lights Through January 8 In addition to admiring the beauty of 4 million LED lights, visitors can find the 5 Fiona fairies in Fairyland, take in a blacklight puppet show, marvel at the spectacular Wild Lights show on Swan Lake, or snack at one of two S’mores-n-More stands. • Location: Cincinnati Zoo Time: Sunday- Thursday 10a-9p, Friday-Saturday 10a-10p cincinnatizoo.org/events/ festival-of-lights

Winter Escape January 1-31 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, 1st Class Boarding Pass members can Bring-A-Friend FREE! Note: The Junction is closed Wednesdays in January. • Location: EnterTRAINment Junction Time: 10a-6p entertrainmentjunction.com

Get Into Nature Gallery Through January 31 The 20,000-acre Richard & Lucile Durrell Edge of Appalachia Preserve System in Adams County is home to hundreds of plant, mammal, insect and bird species. By bringing it to the heart of Cincinnati, you will be able to start your own adventure. Sensory-rich pathways will fill you with the sights, sounds, textures and smells of the natural world. Exhibit elements will encourage you to explore and live animal encounters will introduce you to our wild neighbors. • Location: Cincinnati Museum Center cincymuseum.org

MetroParks Ice Rink January 1-February 26 Whether you’re a skating rookie or have been lacing up your skates for decades, and whether you’re looking for a leisurely afternoon with the family or a competitive night on the ice, there is a full slate of activities to choose from at the MetroParks Ice Rink. • Location: Riverscape MetroPark metroparks.org/ice-rink

Dinosaurs of Antarctica Venture into one of the most isolated environments on Earth on a journey into the unexpected. Uncover never-beforeseen dinosaur fossils buried beneath snow and ice in Dinosaurs of Antarctica: The Exhibition. • Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, Time: 10a-5p cincymuseum.org/dinosaurs-of-antarctica

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.