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DAY TO N

MARCH/APRIL 2018

free

spring into

ACTION TIME TO EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS!

What Do Kids Learn in Preschool?

MUCH MORE THAN ABC'S AND 1-2-3'S!

+

SUMMER PROGRAM & CAMP GUIDE

rainy day fun MAKING THE MOST OF GLOOMY WEATHER

02 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM March/April 2018

March/April 2018 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM 03

IN EVERY ISSUE

contents

M A RCH/A PRIL 2018 departments.

AROUND TOWN

18 Spring into Action!

24 Spending the Day in Centerville

CHILDREN'S HEALTH

08 Emergency Room, Urgent Care or Family Doctor?

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

22 Feed the Creek

IN EVERY ISSUE

06 Editor's Note

26 To Do With Your Crew 27 Wacky Calendar RESOURCES

20 Summer Program & Camp Guide

features.

10

Rainy Day Fun

12

4 Things to Know About Autism

16

What Do Kids Learn in Preschool?

Making the most of gloomy weather!

What local moms of children on the spectrum want others to understand

Much more than ABC's and 1-2-3's!

18

on the cover OWEN − age 1.5 photo by FL ASH PHOTOGRAPHY www.flashphotographystudios.com

04 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM March/April 2018

16 20

10

March/April 2018 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM 05

EDITOR'S NOTE

WORDS BY SUSAN BRYANT

Welcome to SPRING! It couldn’t have come soon enough, right? Though we still have some cool days ahead of us before this season really gets in full swing, it’s good to know that those really blustery, snowy days are long behind us. Goodbye mittens and heavy coats and hello t-shirts and windbreakers.

In that spirit, this issue of Dayton Parent has a few springy things in mind for your family. What’s the best place to take in a beautiful day this time of year? At one of the Five Rivers MetroParks of course! Get the scoop on where to find Mother Nature working her magic all throughout the parks in our article Spring into Action (there are new baby animals being born now too!)

Got a wet spring day and need some indoor action?

Check out our guide to Rainy Day Fun for a few ideas to keep boredom at bay until the sun comes out again. And be sure to take a look at some great ideas for family fun coming up this March and April on our new page called To Do with Your Crew.

(Basketball, kite flying, sugar maple festivities… it’s a good time to be in Dayton!)

There’s lots more so keep flipping! We hope you continue to find Dayton Parent an informative and helpful parenting resource. Have an idea you think we should cover? Let us know! We always welcome ideas from our readers.

Happy spring!

PUBLISHER Mary Wynne Cox mary@daytonparentmagazine.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Hannah Mohler hannah@daytonparentmagazine.com EDITOR Susan Bryant susan@daytonparentmagazine.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Katie Clark katie@daytonparentmagazine.com Brooke Litherland brooke@daytonparentmagazine.com ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Karen Ring karen@daytonparentmagazine.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Katie Clark katie@daytonparentmagazine.com DIGITAL PUBLISHER Wendy Hasser wendy@daytonparentmagazine.com

P.S. Did you know that now is the time to start thinking about summer camp? Find a list of options to consider on page 20!

DIGITAL EDITOR Brooke Litherland brooke@daytonparentmagazine.com Business Manager Roxanne Burns roxanne@daytonparentmagazine.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Haley Paddock, Lauren Lawson, Lauren Lemons and Claire Rogers CALENDAR OF EVENTS calendar@daytonparentmagazine.com CONTACT US daytonparent@daytonparentmagazine.com Dayton Parent Magazine is published bi-monthly. Copyright 2018 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.

06 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM March/April 2018

March/April 2018 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM 07

CHILDREN'S HEALTH

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DAYTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL

Emergency Room, Urgent Care or Family Doctor?

Know where to go when your child is sick or injured Sometimes you know instantly if your child needs quick medical care.

Other times, it's hard to detemine if an injury or illness needs the attention of a health care provider, and if it does, whether that means a trip to the ER, a call to your doctor, or a visit to the nearest urgent care center. These guidelines can help.

WHEN TO CALL YOUR PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN OR PEDIATRICIAN For less urgent problems, call your child's primary care provider or pediatrician.

Your provider, or a nurse who works in the office, can help you decide what steps to take and how.

Call for problems such as:

WHEN TO CALL 911 For a serious emergency, call 911. Some situations are so serious that you need the help of trained medical personnel on the way to the hospital.

Call 911 if your child: • Isn't breathing or is turning blue • Is unconscious after a fall • Is having a seizure

• Took an unknown amount of medicine and is now hard to rouse • Is choking • Has a large cut that's bleeding uncontrollably

Urgent care centers can evaluate and treat the same problems as your regular health care provider. These centers also can provide services like X-rays, stitches and splints. If you’re heading to Dayton Children’s urgent care you can save your spot before you go to minimize your wait time. Save your spot at childrensdayton. org/saveyourspot.

• Colds or coughs • Ear infections

WHEN TO GO TO THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT An ER (emergency room), also called an emergency department (ED), can handle a wide variety of serious problems. They are equipped to handle life-threatening illnesses and injuries at any time of the day or night.

• Has a serious allergic reaction • Has a broken bone that sticks out through the skin

WHEN TO GO TO URGENT CARE

Go to the ER if your child has: • Difficulty breathing • Swallowed objects • Severe stomach pain • Major injuries • Broken bones • A major decrease in activity level • A fever in an infant less than 3 months old

08 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM March/April 2018

• Pink eye • Rashes • Mild fever • Immunizations • Annual and sports physicals

Other problems urgent care can treat include: • Sprains • Flu/colds/fevers • Ear ache • Sore throat • Minor cuts and burns

Calling your child's regular provider for these kinds of concerns allows for a continuity of care, which means always seeing a provider who knows you and your child.

When it's not practical to get to your provider's office or it's after hours and the office is not open, that's when you might think about getting medical care at an urgent care center. It's a good idea to talk with your child's health care provider about these options before you need to use them.

Being prepared the next time your child needs medical attention by knowing where to go can help your son or daughter get the best care possible.

BRANDED CONTENT

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DAY TON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Summer Camp for Preschoolers Maintaining critical skills often lost over break The warm, lazy days of summer can be a welcome reprieve for parents who have spent months juggling school schedules and struggling to get children out the door on time.

Summer camp can create loose structure in a family’s life, and provide children with a smoother transition once school starts back up again. However, it’s not always a reality for some families, which is why Tesmer suggests the following steps to support learning at home.

There’s no doubt kids deserve a break from the rigors of school, but that doesn’t mean learning should take a back seat. It’s important to engage children during the months they are away from the classroom, especially for preschoolers whose minds are absorbing information at a rapid rate, said Wendy Tesmer, lead teacher for the preschool program at Dayton Christian School.

Read continuously – The more you read to your child the more they learn. Take advantage of your local library’s summer reading program, and create a consistent space and time in your home where reading takes place.

According to the National Summer Learning Association, children can lose up to two months of reading and math skills over the course of a summer. It’s for this reason that Dayton Christian created its preschool camp where young students can stay engaged by learning in creative ways.

“We’re reinforcing the basic skills such as holding a pencil or cutting a piece of paper, but in a way that doesn’t look or feel like school,” Tesmer said. “They’re exploring what it means to be a junior engineer, a mad scientist and explorer while sharpening the skills they were taught during the school year.”

Write often – Find creative ways for your child to practice writing or drawing with the

proper pencil grasp. Make a card or draw a picture for a neighbor or friend, and don’t forget to have them sign their name.

Get outside – Hit the trails at local parks and play “I spy” by looking for items that start with

a certain letter or are of a particular color. Talk about flowers, birds, trees and animals.

Stay social – Socialization is an important part of life and school. Look for ways to include friends in different activities to keep your child social. Invite a friend to go the park or look for local camps where they can stay engaged.

For more information on Dayton Christian School’s preschool camp program go to daytonchristian.com/summer.

March/April 2018 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM 09

rainy day fun MAKING THE MOST OF GLOOMY WEATHER! WORDS BY HALEY PADDOCK

HAVE A MOVIE DAY STAY HOME Pop some popcorn and start a movie marathon! Let everyone choose a favorite from your home collection and watch as many as you please. Want a newer f lick?

“Rent” a movie for free from your local library or reserve one online for pickup from a nearby Redbox.

Need something to do when Mother Nature has thrown a rainy day your way? Whether you'd rather hole up at home or get your clan out of the house, here are a few ideas to have at the ready.

GO OUT

SPLASH AROUND STAY HOME

Aqua-Tots

Kettering Recreation Complex

If the rain is pouring but lightning and thunder are at bay, consider taking your kids puddle jumping. Break out the raincoats and boots and go for a walk around your neighborhood searching for the biggest puddles. Make a contest of who can make the best splash!

www.swimschoolbeavercreek.com/

www.playkettering.org

Monday-Friday from 12:30-3:30 (call ahead on weekdays)

Days and times vary throughout the year so visit their website for a full calendar each month.

Saturday from 1:30-3:00

Goldfish Swim School

GO OUT Get really wet and go for a swim! These indoor pools offer special hours for families to have a great time swimming and splashing around.

www.goldfishswimschool.com/ dayton/ Monday, Wednesday, Thursday from 2:00-3:30 Tuesday from 12:00 to 2:00 Friday from 12:00 to 2:00 or 6:30-8:00 Sunday 12:00-1:00

10 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM March/April 2018

Washington-Township Recreation Center www.washingtontwp.org Days and times vary throughout the year so visit their website for a full calendar each month.

Pack up and head to the theater! Most movie theatres offer discounted daytime showings so be sure to check with your favorite local cinema for details. For a unique experience, take a trip to the brand new Cinépolis in Miamisburg.

Cinépolis offers moviegoers plush, automated reclining seats and the ability to reserve seats before your show.

GET CRAFTY

MAKE MEALTIME FUN

STAY HOME

STAY HOME

Little ones will love the chance to break out the finger paint, markers or Play-Doh – especially if you create something alongside them. For older kids, challenge them to make a crazy craft using only recyclable materials from your house!

Kids love helping out in the kitchen, so why not take advantage of the extra time inside by trying a new recipe – or putting a twist on a familiar favorite? Let Beavercreek Pizza Dive help out with “Take N Make Pizza’” kits. Each kit includes dusting f lour, butter sauce, homemade pizza dough, pizza sauce and pizza cheese. Order kits for each of your kiddos to give them some hands-on fun in the kitchen.

GO OUT Rather make a mess somewhere else?

Drop in to any of these local studios to create a memorable keepsake.

Decoy Art Studio www.decoy-art.com 1561 Grange Hall Rd, Beavercreek Walk-ins welcome

GO OUT Plan a lunch or dinner date! Visit your family’s favorite spot or try out a new one. Check out local restaurants that offer “kids eat free” (or nearly free) specials such as these.

• Fricker’s

Spark Art Studio

• Submarine House

https://sparkartstudio.com/

• Skyline Chili

3126 Wilmington Pike, Kettering

• O’Charley’s

Drop-in classes vary by age group; visit website for details.

• Fazoli’s • Ruby Tuesday • Applebee’s

Cozy Melts http://cozymelts.com/ Located in the Fairfield Commons Mall Walk-ins welcome

Paintbrush Pottery http://paintbrushpottery.com/

• Moe’s

Gray skies don’t have to equal gloomy kids. With these fun ideas in your back pocket, your kids might just look forward to the next rainy day!

255 W Central Ave, Springboro Walk-ins welcome

March/April 2018 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM 11

4 things

to know about

AUTISM

What local moms of children on the spectrum want others to understand WORDS BY CLAIRE ROGERS AND SUSAN BRYANT

April is National Autism Awareness Month and for many parents who have children on the autism spectrum, their sincere hope is that more people do become aware of what autism is and how it affects their children.

Here we’ve asked two Dayton area mothers who have children with autism to share their thoughts on the subject.

Being teased hurts.

Local mom Vicki S. recounts the story of a meal she shared at a restaurant with her son who has autism. Several teenagers sitting a few booths over were giggling and staring at him. Vicki left the restaurant saddened by the harsh reminder of the bullying and teasing that people with autism often face. “An individual with autism, even those non-verbal like my 13-year-old son, often have very strong receptive language skills and may be well able to perceive and

Autism is not just one thing.

Autism is considered a spectrum disorder, which means that it presents itself along a wide range of behaviors. It is often said that when you’ve met one child with autism, you’ve met one child with autism – meaning that there is a great deal of individuality when it comes to people on the spectrum. “I wish the world would see people with autism as the kids, adults, individuals they are, not ‘autism walking’ or any other negative stereotype the world projects onto them,” says Joanne A. of Beavercreek, whose son has autism.

“Regard them as the human beings they are.”

12 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM March/April 2018

comprehend most everything around them, even if they are unable to adequately express their understanding to others.”

Extend kindness, not judgement.

People with autism may feel easily overwhelmed and need space to calm down. Joanne says that visiting public places with her son presents a unique set of challenges. Bright lights, loud noises or unexpected interactions can be too much

for him to process. She remembers the embarrassment she felt when other parents glared at her while her son was having a meltdown in a store. “What I really needed in those moments was grace, empathy and kindness instead of judgement.”

Those with autism are not so different from everyone else.

“People with autism desire the same respect and dignity we all strive to achieve for ourselves,” says Vicki. “They may experience the world in overwhelming HD, or as if they are wearing earbuds that are shorting out, causing them to not hear every word or have all input transmitted and received properly – circumstances that would make it harder for anyone to be successful. It is not for a lack of trying or intelligence. The world would be a more tolerant place if people would just extend grace and be more respectful.”

The month of April shines a brief spotlight on autism and how it affects people on the spectrum. For those families who have a child with autism, they hope the world will see their children for the unique, special and valuable kids they are 365 days a year.

BRANDED CONTENT

BROUGHT TO YOU BY OHIO VIRTUAL ACADEMY

At OHVA, We Believe Every Child is Uniquely Brilliant OHVA is a Tuition-free Online School: OHVA.k12.com Ohio Virtual Academy (OHVA) is an innovative online public school with passionate educators dedicated to inspiring and empowering students. Because OHVA is part of the public school system, Ohio Virtual Academy is tuition-free. Enrolled families receive the K12 curriculum, as well as a loaner computer and printer. The K12 curriculum is accessed via an online school as well as through more traditional methods. Materials are delivered right to the family's doorstep--including books, art and science materials. This robust, engaging curriculum includes traditional core subjects, art, music, world languages, honors and AP® courses, and numerous electives.

Ohio-certified teachers support students and conduct live, online classes. Guidance counselors and college and career workshops help students with their goals for the future.

Eligible high school students can earn college credits on select courses through dual enrollment opportunities. The school also offers the Destinations Career Program, where students in grades 9–12 can prepare for college and career and gain relevant technical trade skills in Information Technology. Virtual clubs bring students together in an active, supportive school community. There are regular face-to-face meetings as well.

While switching from a traditional classroom to online schooling can be a big adjustment, we provide the tools and support to help you address these challenges. We hope you’ll consider OHVA for the 2018-2019 school year! To learn more, visit our website at ohva.k12.com.

March/April 2018 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM 13

what do kids learn in preschool?

Much more than ABC’s and 1-2-3’s!

WORDS BY LAUREN LAWSON

16 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM March/April 2018

From the outside, preschool might look like just fun and games – and it is! But inside, preschool is a child’s first formal building block for educational growth and success. Quality programs address the whole child – emotionally, socially, physically and academically. So, what exactly is happening in a preschool classroom?

Learning through play Play serves a vital role in a child’s learning process. Ann Guthrie, an educator at the Antioch School Nursery in Yellow Springs, expresses the importance of child’s play during the preschool years: “Through play, children are building a vast library of experience and discovery and personal understanding of their world and themselves in it.”

Kids playing together might just look like they’re having a good time, but on a biochemical level, it truly enables brain development.

The release of powerful neurotransmitters during this free time allows for new connections to occur in the brain. Preschool play is not only fun, but essential to a child’s development.

Enhancing social and emotional skills Julie Patel, the Director of the Soin Early Childhood School/The Miami Valley School in Dayton, says that addressing the social and emotional aspect of children in a preschool program is key. “The social/ emotional development of each child must be interwoven into every day and every area of development.” At the Miami Valley School, confidence and compassion are two central skills for preschoolers to learn as they venture onto kindergarten. “We want the children to take care of themselves and speak up to a teacher or another friend about what they need and how they are feeling. We want them to show empathy when a friend is hurt or sad… these are vital life lessons and it all starts in preschool.”

Audrey Davis, Head of School for Northstar Classical School, says their primary focus is on character development. Students learn skills such as respect, listening, and how to treat others with love and kindness. She says that students in their preschool classroom are also taught how to do their best work and resolve conflict when it arises.

Learning how to follow a routine is another important part of the day at Northstar.

Davis says, “The importance of basic routines can’t be underestimated, and they take a lot of practice for our students!” From raising hands, to sitting on the carpet patiently, to lining up for the bathroom, being able to follow a structure is important for students

gearing up for kindergarten. The preschool environment helps young children find their groove for the school years to come.

Preparing to learn Preschool is the perfect place for kids to get excited about learning and start some good school habits. Singing songs helps with memory development, rhyming prepares students for reading in the future and crafts help to hone fine motor skills. Davis says that working on correct pencil grip and number and letter formation are just some of the academic preparations that occur in her preschool. “It is much easier to spend the time teaching it correctly the first time than breaking a bad habit once they’re in kindergarten.”

Patel adds that preschool teachers work to learn a student’s personality and developmental level. “We are looking at fine motor, gross motor, early literacy, cognitive and social/emotional development.”

As you can see, there’s much more going on in a preschool classroom than what meets the eye. Along with a whole lot of fun, children learn valuable social, emotional and self-help skills that can help them succeed in kindergarten and beyond.

March/April 2018 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM 17

AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY LAUREN LEMONS

Spring into Action!

Explore the great outdoors this season in your MetroParks Spring provides a unique opportunity for children to see nature in action. As the weather warms up, animals and plants become more active after a long dormant winter. This is the perfect time to be outdoors with your family, especially if you were “hibernating” inside this winter.

Take some inspiration from your favorite MetroPark in bloom and then enjoy hands-on activities at home that keep the exploration going.

18 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM March/April 2018

LEARN SOMETHING NEW MetroParks hosts a myriad of kid-friendly programs for families during the spring. All MetroParks’ Conservation Kids programs are now for ages 3 to 13, so kids can participate with their siblings and friends. MetroParks educators guide children through hands-on programs that cultivate interest in the natural world and provide the tools necessary to be sterling stewards of the environment. Learn more by visiting metroparks.org/ kids. If your child loves to be a helper, consider signing up for MetroParks’ biggest annual day of service, Adopt-aPark, on Saturday, April 21st.

Keep exploring: Take time as a family to explore your child’s outdoor-focused interests in your backyard, neighborhood or local playground. Read books outside about local wildlife, compare the night sky in your backyard to the night sky in Germantown MetroPark or plant a pollinator garden. All of these activities encourage your child’s curiosity about the natural world.

PLANT PEEPING One of the most apparent signs of spring can be found popping up right through the ground! Visit Aullwood Garden MetroPark to see thousands of bluebells appear in early April. The gardens at Wegerzyn Gardens and Cox Arboretum are also packed with spring blooms during April and May. Many of these f lowers race to bloom before the big trees open their shady leaves. As you stroll along the trails in MetroParks, don’t forget to look for budding trees. As the leaves grow during the season, compare their shapes and sizes.

Keep exploring: Nature is all around us! Take a walk through your backyard or neighborhood. Do you see some of the same plants and f lowers you saw in MetroParks? Which f lowers and plants are the most colorful? Which smell the nicest?

Encourage your children to use all their senses to explore the world around them.

GET MOVING Children today spend significantly less time playing outdoors than their parents did. (And a long, cold winter doesn’t help!) Let your stir-crazy kiddos outside so they can stretch their muscles in their favorite Five Rivers MetroPark. Hills & Dales, Possum Creek, Sugarcreek, Englewood and Wesleyan MetroPark all feature nature play areas, where kids can use their imagination and create their own fun. Eastwood and Wesleyan MetroPark feature more traditional playgrounds where kids can jump, climb, swing and slide as well.

Keep exploring: Developing both fine and gross motor skills are important for young children.

Many outdoor activities that develop these skills can be done in your own back yard. Develop gross motor skills by encouraging activities like climbing on a playset, playing a game of hide and seek or creating a rock garden. To enhance fine motor skills, suggest activities that promote hand and wrist dexterity, such as planting f lowers, making a castle with sticks, stacking rocks or using natural materials (like mud) to draw.

WILDLIFE WATCHING Another great reason to visit Five Rivers MetroParks during the spring is the bustle of new life that appears, from returning birds to really cool insects. Check out the trails through beautiful wooded areas and prairies to view local wildlife in their natural habitats.

Domestic animals have a special job at MetroParks too. Visit Carriage Hill MetroPark for a peek at the Riding Center’s horses and the farm animals at the historical farm. For even more animal fun, head to Possum Creek MetroPark to get up close to chickens, goats, sheep, rabbits and more. Baby animals are expected to be born during the spring at both of these MetroPark locations.

Keep exploring: Grab a magnifying glass and go on a backyard wildlife adventure. Roll over logs and turn over rocks to see how many insects you can spot. Put out a birdfeeder and see how many different kinds of birds visit. For those who want to create a cozy space for our winged friends, consider placing a bat and/or bird house in your backyard tree. Both of these f lying creatures will help keep pests away from your yard and can potentially help with pollination.

Want to learn more? Check out the Five Rivers MetroParks website at www.metroparks.org.

PHOTO CREDITS FIVE RIVERS METRO PARKS

MAY 2016 // INDYSCHILD.COM 19 March/April 2018 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM 19

RESOURCES

SPONSORED LISTINGS.

SUMMER PROGRAM

& CAMP guide EAST DAYTON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 999 Spinning Rd, Dayton, Ohio 45431, Contact: Linda Wade, Phone: (937) 252-5400, http://www.eastdayton christian.org/ Dates: June 4 - August 3 Ages: 18mos. - 5yrs

Preschool and daycare is open 6:30am - 5:30pm. The summer activities run from 9:00am - 11:30am. Activities include: water activities, bike day, gym, arts and crafts

DRAGONS LITTLE BIG LEAGUES 220 N Patterson Blvd, Dayton, OH 45432, Email: dragons@daytondragons.com, Phone: (937) 228-2287, www.cwpd.org/programs-events/childrens-programs/ hidden-meadows-day-camp/ Dates: June 25-26 and July 30-31 Ages: 7-14

Professional instruction from the Dayton Dragons coaching staff and players. Training on the fundamentals of baseball. Campers will receive 4 tickets to a Dayton Dragon home game, t-shirt and more!

CAMP NEWAYGO 5333 Centerline Rd, Newaygo, MI 49337, Email: campbiz @campnewaygo.org, Contact: Kori Swieter, Phone: (231) 652-1184, www.campnewaygo.org Dates: June 20-23, and One and two-week sessions from June 24 - August 4 Ages: 7-17, Mom and me programs starting at age 3

Since 1926 campers from around the world have enjoyed fun filled summers at Camp Newaygo, a girl’s resident camp in Newaygo, Michigan. If you like spending time in the outdoors, enjoying the sun, having fun on the water, and making lifelong friendships, Camp Newaygo is the place for you.

AQUA-TOTS FAST TRACK SUMMER CAMP (Beavercreek) 2451 Lakeview Drive, Beavercreek, OH 45431, Email: beavercreekoinfo@aqua-tots.com, Contact: Brittany Haley, Phone: (937) 886-4321, www.aqua-tots.com Dates: June 4 - August 2 Ages: 2.5+

Jump start your child's swimming ability in our Fast Track program that runs Monday - Thursday for 2 weeks with eight 30-minute lessons. Class sizes are small with 4:1 student/ instructor ratio. Semi-private, private, and special needs classes are available. Spring Fast Track available at Beavercreek location only. Call for dates.

2365 Dayton Xenia Road, Beavercreek, OH 45434, Email: bcsylvan@gmail.com, Contact: Bryan, Phone: (937) 427-8808, www.sylvanlearning.com Dates: Various dates throughout summer Ages: 5-14

Sylvan offers Stem classes/camps in robotics, coding, and engineering. Our camps will focus on one area each week and campers will have the opportunity to learn terms and apply these to their builds. Then they get to create!

MARMON VALLEY MINISTRIES AQUA-TOTS FAST TRACK SUMMER CAMP (Springboro) 716 N. Main Street, Springboro, OH 45066, Email: springboroinfo@aqua-tots.com, Contact: Yvonne Haley, Phone: (937) 886-4321, www.aqua-tots.com Dates: June 4 - August 2 Ages: 2.5+

Jump start your child's swimming ability in our Fast Track program that runs Monday - Thursday for 2 weeks with eight 30-minute lessons. Class sizes are small with 4:1 student/ instructor ratio. Semi-private, private, and special needs classes are available.

7754 State Route 292 S, Zanesfield, OH 43360, Email: info@marmonvalley.com, Contact: Natalie Frueh, Phone: (937) 593-8000, www.marmonvalley.com/about-us/ m.v.-ministries.html Dates: Weekly June 10-August 11, June 4-July 27 Ages: 7-17

Marmon Valley Ministries is a Christ-centered horse camp for boys and girls ages 7-17. We specialize in residential half-week and week-long camps for horse crazy kids of all experience levels. In addition to daily riding time, campers have the opportunity to try adventurous activities like archery, vaulting, and rock climbing.

HIDDEN MEADOWS DAY CAMP CHALLENGE ISLAND STEAM CAMPS at Get Air and other locations 6020 Chambersburg Rd, Huber Heights, Ohio 45424, Email: lmosley@challenge-island.com, Contact: Leslie Mosley, Phone: (937) 524-3928, www.challenge-island.com/ dayton-south-ohio/ Dates: Various dates throughout the summer Ages: 4-14

Challenge Island takes kids on unique "island" adventures where they work in collaborative tribes to tackle various STEAM challenges. Our STEAM-tastic camps are the perfect destination for your child during summer vacation and other school breaks! Built around pop-culture themes kids love, our camps feel like action-packed vacations in their own right.

20 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM March/April 2018

STEM CAMPS (ROBOTICS, ENGINEERING AND CODING) at Centerville and Beavercreek Sylvan

501 Normandy Ridge Rd., Centerville, OH 45459, Email: cjohnson@cwpd.org, Contact: Christian Johnson/ Recreation Coordinator, Phone: (937) 433-5155, www.cwpd.org/programs-events/childrens-programs/ hidden-meadows-day-camp/ Dates: June 4-July 27 Ages: 3-12

The highlight of the summer, Hidden Meadows Day Camp encourages children ages 3-12 to learn about nature and enjoy the outdoors by exploring Grant Park, playing games and making new friends! Campers are also treated to guest speakers, special presentations and activities.

All-day and half-day options are available, as well as before and after care.

BEAVERCREEK SUMMER DAY CAMP

ENERGY EXPLORATION STEM CAMP

Rotary Park, 2260 Dayton-Xenia Road, Email: parks@beavercreekohio.gov, Contact: Erin Harris, Recreation Program Supervisor, Phone: (937) 427-5514, www.beavercreek ohio.gov

Grant Park, 6588 McEwen Rd., Centerville, OH 45459, Email: kmarks@cwpd.org, Contact: Kristen Marks/Program Manager, Phone: (937) 433-5155, www.cwpd.org

Dates: Monday-Friday, June 4 - July 27, 2018

Weekly themed camps include a different theme and field trip each week! Campers will participate in a variety of games and activities, create crafts, play sports, and meet new friends. Camps run 9:30 - 3:30 with extended hours offered free of charge before and after camp.

ADVENTURE CAMP

Dates: July 16-20 Ages: 8-14

Children will investigate how to reduce the energy we use every day. They will review and build working alternative power sources to design their own park. Ideas may include wind, solar, hydropower or conservation.

They should bring their brainpower and be ready to dive into the world of all things power! Each child will take home his/her earth-friendly parkscape. Camp is mornings only.

221 N. Main Street, Centerville, OH 45459, Email: klucas@cwpd.org, Contact: Katy Lucas/Naturalist, Phone: (937) 433-5155, www.cwpd.org

THE MIAMI VALLEY SCHOOL / SUMMER AT MVS 2018

Dates: June 11-16, June 25-30, July 9-14, July 23-28 Ages: 10-15

5151 Denise Drive, Dayton, Ohio 45429, Email: yolanda.lyon@mvschool.com, Contact: Yolanda Lyon, Phone: (937) 434-4444, www.mvschool.com

Combine outdoor adventure and nature education with this weeklong camp at various parks throughout Centerville and Washington Township. Adventure Camp includes hiking, fishing, archery, games, survival challenges and an overnight at Grant Park. Learn to track animals in the woods, cook over a campfire and pitch a tent. Make lifelong friends at this unique summer experience.

Dates: June 18-22, June 25-29, July 9-13, July 16-20, July 23-27

CWPD ART CAMP

PASSPORT TO ADVENTURE

Oak Creek South Park, 790 MiamisburgCenterville Rd., Dayton, OH 45458, Email: adeshurko@cwpd.org, Contact: Ally DeShurko/Recreation Coordinator, Phone: (937) 433-5155, www.cwpd.org

965 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd, Dayton, OH 45459, Email: josh.ward@washingtontwp. org, Contact: Jill Reid and Josh Ward, Phone: (937) 433-0130, www.washingtontwp.org/ recreation

Dates: June 18-20, July 16-18 Ages: 6-11

Dates: June 4-August 10 Ages: 3-14

Create art in the park at this outdoor afternoon art camp! We will explore ways that art and nature come together. Students will take hikes and use a variety of materials to create projects based on different artists and types of work. Rain location is the Smith House at Bill Yeck Park.

Campers can stamp their passport with an array of activities and destinations that will excite their imagination and fill their summer with friends, fun and imagination.

Each week offers a different combination of activities and trips, to satisfy the adventurer in them week after week. Whether campers sign up for one week or all ten, they can explore our recreation campus and its many local attractions, including outdoor games, swimming, canoeing, rock climbing, and arts and crafts.

The Miami Valley School offers your student a chance to reinforce the skills learned over the school year, explore favorite subjects through experience and prepare for the next year while having fun. Camps are for early childhood - high school. The majority of our summer camps are run by MVS faculty.

BE PART OF OUR MAY/JUNE CAMP GUIDE

contact HANNAH@ DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM March/April 2018 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM 21

THIS ISSUE'S SPOTLIGHT WORDS BY HALEY PADDOCK

Local Spotlight: Feed the Creek Meeting an important need for school-aged children in Beavercreek HOW DOES FEED THE CREEK PROVIDE FOOD TO THE CHILDREN OF BEAVERCREEK?

PHOTO CREDIT FEED THE CREEK

It’s estimated that 1 out of 4 children in the Beavercreek school district do not have enough food to eat at home.

Most of these children are on the free or discounted lunch program at school, but once the school day is over, they may still be in need of extra nourishment. Dedicated to fighting childhood hunger in their own backyard, Feed the Creek is an organization run entirely by volunteers working to make sure children have the food they need. Dayton Parent spoke to Sharon Fulcher, Founder and Executive Director at Feed the Creek, about the ways they’re able to provide food for those that need it most.

We use a weekend “backpack program.” Feed the Creek volunteers work to sort and bag non-perishable food donations and deliver it to each of the Beavercreek public schools.

We communicate with the school counselors to ensure each child that has signed up to receive assistance is provided with a backpack full of food to take home over the weekend. The food is given to the children discretely on Friday, or on the last day of each school week.

HOW DO FAMILIES SIGN UP TO RECEIVE FEED THE CREEK ASSISTANCE? At the beginning of each school year, a form is sent home to 100% of kids within the district. Parents or guardians can fill out the form to request the backpack program assistance. We also work with each of the school counselors to identify children that may be in need.

Students and their siblings, who are either signed up by their guardians or identified by their counselors, will be eligible for the Feed the Creek weekend food program.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR GREATEST NEEDS RIGHT NOW AND WHAT CAN THE COMMUNITY DO TO HELP? Our greatest need is for members of the community to sign up for the “Adopt a Child” program. It costs about $30 per month or $300 per school year to provide food assistance for one child. As far as food donations, we are always in

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need of oatmeal packs and pudding, but the full list of the types of food we accept for our program can be found on our website. We have multiple donation drop off locations, including collection bins within the Beavercreek Community Library and several local churches.

Food can also be dropped off at any of the schools or directly to the Feed the Creek pantry.

THERE ARE “LITTLE FREE PANTRY” COLLECTION BOXES OUTSIDE SOME OF THE AREA SCHOOLS – ARE THOSE PART OF THE FEED THE CREEK PROGRAM? Yes. The little free pantries are for anyone who may need a little extra food. The reason they are at the schools is for children to have the opportunity to give back to the community. Kids and their families are able to add to the pantries at any time. The food they place in the boxes can then be taken by anyone who needs it. These pantries also serve in raising awareness of the hunger problems here in Beavercreek. You would be surprised how fast these little pantries go empty!

Want to learn more about Feed the Creek? Visit their website at www.feedthecreek.org to find information on becoming a volunteer or sponsor, a list of food needed for the backpack program as well as where to drop off food donations.

March/April 2018 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM 23

AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY HALEY PADDOCK

Spending the Day in Centerville Exploring Dayton one city at a time

Whether you’re new to the Dayton area, or have lived here most your life, there’s always something to be discovered. It could be a new favorite restaurant, a park you’ve never tried or a trail you’ve overlooked. Creating an adventure with your kids doesn’t have to take you far from home. In this issue of Dayton Parent, we’ve put together an itinerary of family-friendly ideas to get you more acquainted with the city of Centerville.

morning BILL’S DONUT SHOP 268 N. Main Street TOP BILL'S DONUT SHOP Photo by Haley Paddock BELOW ACTIVITY PARK Photo by Ken Carter

Voted 2nd best donut shop in the nation

by Business Insider, Bill’s Donut Shop is first on our list of Centerville stops. Come in for breakfast to start your day and be sure to try the pretzel-shaped glazed donut. It’s a fan favorite!

RIGHT WALTON HOUSE MUSEUM Photo Credit: Walton House Museum

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ACTIVIT Y CENTER PARK

ESTHER PRICE CANDIES

221 N. Main Street

269 N. Main Street

Get some fresh air and exercise by visiting one of Centerville’s most beloved parks. Activity Center Park is an all-access playground as well as splash pad (water is turned on after Memorial Day). The park also has baseball diamonds, pickle- ball courts and a covered picnic area, promising to offer fun for the whole family.

You won’t hear any complaints when you pull up to Dayton’s legendary chocolate shop. Centerville’s spacious Esther Price store offers free samples, gift ideas and plenty of options for filling

your candy jar at home.

afternoon FLAVORS EATERY 865 E. Franklin Street Locally owned and operated, Flavors Eatery offers a fresh, healthy menu full of, well, f lavor! Lunch options are designed to meet several dietary restrictions and the “Little People Menu” will make even the pickiest eaters smile.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try their House Sauce, which can be purchased by the jar if you can’t get enough!

WALTON HOUSE MUSEUM 89 W. Franklin Street Featuring exhibits showcasing historical artifacts of the city in an original 1840s home, the Walton House Museum will interest history buffs young and old. Tiny visitors will also love visiting the gorgeous gardens and gazebo on site, known throughout Centerville as the perfect family photo opp!

evening SWEENEY’S SEAFOOD 28 W. Franklin Street Boasting four 150-gallon fish tanks, overhead sails that light up and a fresh kids’ menu, Sweeney’s Seafood aims to provide a memorable atmosphere for your dinner stop. Sweeney’s has been awarded best seafood in Dayton four years in a row, and kids eat free every Monday night (with purchase of adult entrées).

COX ARBORETUM 6733 N. Springboro Pike Open until 8 pm each evening, your family will love visiting Cox Arboretum. Walk the nature trails, visit the Butterf ly House and climb to the top of the Tree Tower to wind down and enjoy nature as your day in Centerville comes to a happy close!

next issue:

Spending the Day in Yellow Springs!

March/April 2018 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM 25

IN EVERY ISSUE

to do with your crew M A RCH/A PRIL 20 1 8

LET THE MADNESS BEGIN! The NCAA First Four is returning to UD Arena! The 2018 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship begins with the First Four – four first-round games March 14th -15th at the University of Dayton. Get in on the fun even earlier with the STEM Challenge at Chaminade-Julienne High School on March 12th where students can take part in a “hot shot” challenge and experience hands-on STEM exhibits – and compete to win iPads, t-shirts, gift cards and First Four tickets.

Get the scoop at www.daytonhoopla.com.

FEELING FUNKY?

ADOPT-A-PARK

Then get yourself over to The Funk Music Hall of Fame & Exhibition Center! This brandnew museum aims to promote the legacy of Funk music by acknowledging the artists who brought this art form to life and showcase the Funk experience and its memorabilia. The space will feature clothing, instruments, records and other items gleaned from iconic funk bands like The Ohio Players, Zapp, Slave, Heatwave and others. The museum also has a special mission to educate children on the history of Funk music. Bring the whole family – children under 5 are free!

Spend the morning on Saturday, April 21st volunteering in parks and other areas across Montgomery County and enjoy a free lunch afterward at RiverScape MetroPark. With opportunities for volunteers of all ages, this is the perfect opportunity to celebrate Earth Day. Gloves and trash bags will be provided. Volunteers should bring their own drinking water and dress for the weather. Don’t wait!

Register online from March 1st through April 6th at metroparks. org/adopt to participate!

To find out more, visit www. thefunkcenter.org. For additional information or to schedule a tour, call (937) 837-4441 or email info@thefunkcenter.org.

26 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM March/April 2018

LOOKING FOR SOME FUN? Come celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Sugar Maple Festival April 27th – April 29th in Bellbrook where events include an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast, craft show, dog show, a 5k race, live music, community parade, mini super hero parade, recycled sculpture contest, sweetheart contest, and of course, maple syrup to purchase!

Be sure to bring your appetite – offerings include grilled salmon and crab cakes, Cajun gumbo, giant pork tenderloins, cheesecake on a stick, apple flappins, deep fried pickles and much more. The festivities will take place rain or shine so visit www.sugarmaplefestival.com for a schedule of events.

GO FLY A KITE! Get on over to the National Museum of the US Air Force on April 21st for “Kite Tales” and celebrate spring by watching fascinating demonstrations on the incredible art of indoor kite flying. You can even build a kite of your own to fly! Be sure to check the museum’s website for more upcoming Saturday Family Days; each month features a new theme such as engineering, meteorology, gravity and space.

Visit www.nationalmuseum. af.mil/Education/Family-Day/ for a list of events!

WACKY FUN & calendar M A R CH/A PR I L 20 1 8

Did you know that there is an official holiday for just about anything you can think of?

Here are a few fun days worth celebrating!

MARCH 3/2 DR. SEUSS DAY

Would you celebrate in a house?

Would you celebrate with a mouse?

3/9 PANIC DAY

3/20 STORYTELLING DAY Can you spin a good tale?

WALK ON YOUR WILD SIDE DAY

So take it easy!

WAFFLE DAY

With strawberries and whipped cream please.

Go ahead and be EPIC!

Corn dog? Popsicle?

Fruit kabob? You pick!

3/12

3/26

NAPPING DAY

MAKE UP YOUR OWN HOLIDAY DAY

Have 3.14 slices of pie!

Let’s get crazy!

3/25

SOMETHING ON A STICK DAY

PI DAY

Pamper your furry friend.

GOOF OFF DAY

3/10

3/14

PET DAY

4/12

3/28

Get your snooze on.

4/11

3/22

Permission to freak out!

DAY OF AWESOMENESS

APRIL

What will yours be?

4/17 4/2 PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY DAY Nothing beats a classic.

4/5 GO FOR BROKE DAY Give it all you got.

4/7

BLAH BLAH BLAH DAY And yada yada yada too.

4/19 HIGH FIVE DAY

The preferred greeting today.

4/30 OATMEAL COOKIE DAY Don’t forget the milk!

PILLOW FIGHT DAY Let the battle begin!

4/9 UNICORN DAY Can you spot one?

4/10 SIBLINGS DAY

You know you love ‘em!

Source: www.daysoftheyear.com

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