March 2021 | Southwest Ohio Parent | Cincinnati

MARCH 2021

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socially distant SPRING BREAK IDEAS

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Summer Camp: Why it's more important now than ever

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SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

contents

// MARCH 2021

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12 features

departments

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In Every Issue

Important Life Skills Your Child Learngs in Preschool These early childhood years are full of learning and growing.

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Socially Distant Spring Break Ideas

Where to go and what to do to have fun – and be safe – this spring break.

06 07 08 09

Resources & Calendars

Letter from the Editor Local Kids News & Notes Our Cover Kid

22 Summer Camp Guide 29 Education Guide 26 Things to Do in March

31 Fun & Wacky Calendar

Around Town 11 Hidden Gems:

Johnson Nature Preserve

24 2021 Spring Consignment and Resale Guide

30 Local Spotlight: Cincinnati Parks Foundation

Parenting

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10 Cooking with the Family 18 Camp is More Essential Than Ever

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Publisher Mary Wynne Cox mary@ohparent.com Associate Publisher + Creative Director Katie Clark katie@ohparent.com Editor Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@ohparent.com Advertising + Sales Hannah Mohler hannah@ohparent.com Production Manager Karen Ring karen@ohparent.com

Dreaming of Spring I can’t think of a better time to be thinking about spring and all of the wonderful things that come with it. As I write this, the Midwest has just been pummelled with several inches of snow, and when I look out my window, all I see is a blanket of white. Is all that snow beautiful? Yes. Am I completely done with snow and winter? Also yes. That’s why I am setting my sights on spring!

Spring break is one of the things on the top of my list to look forward to. This year, my family and I are feelin’ the cabin fever like never before. Can you relate? I thought so! Then you’ll need to read “Socially Distant Spring Break Ideas” on page 14. It offers ideas for places to visit where you can be a tourist in your own town, so you can focus on having fun… and not spend so much time getting to the fun. Most importantly, the article mentions places that are great to visit where

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you can remain physically distant from others — either outdoors, or places that are doing a great job with safety protocols.

While we’re all dreaming about spring, let’s not forget that summer is right around the corner, too! What are your plans for summer camp this year? If you’re still not sure, then take a look at our Summer Camp Guide on page 22. And for even more summer camp inspiration, go online and browse our Virtual Camp Fair, which gives you an inside look at dozens of camps around Southwest Ohio, and will answer some of your most common camp questions.

You can find it at ohparent.com/camp-fair.

Calendar Editor Haley Paddock haley@ohparent.com Digital Publisher Wendy Hasser wendy@ohparent.com Events + Digital Brooke Litherland brooke@ohparent.com Administration + Marketing Mary Mueller mmueller@ohparent.com Billing billing@ohparent.com Contributing Writers Rachael Dupree, Steffy McCourt, Jennifer Thompson Calendar of Events calendar@ohparent.com

Here’s to warmer, brighter days ahead!

SW Ohio Parent is published monthly. Copyright 2021 by Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary or services herein.

say cheese!

LOCAL kids

We like getting ideas for new adventures, so we asked our readers to show us their favorite places to play. Here are some of our favorite submissions of local kids having fun!

Mila (4) in the backyard Rory (1) at Hopewell Meadows Park

Leo (2) at Bill Yeck Park

Emmy (3) at Get Air West Chester

Sydney (10) and Savannah (8) at Ceasars Creek State Park Samantha (3) at Boonshoft Museum of Discovery Julia (5.5) and Elizabeth(2.5) at the neighborhood sledding hill

Want to see your cute kids on this page?

April 10 is National Siblings Day, and to celebrate, we want to feature photos of kids with their brothers and sisters! Email us your best photos of sibs together (with the kid's name and age, and the location of the photo) to editor@ohparent.com, and your picture may be selected to appear here!

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NEWS & Notes

Our monthly roundup of news you can use

DON'T MISS THIS

Get Ready for Camp!

3.14 THAT IS THE NUMBER PI (Π) ROUNDED TO THE NEAREST HUNDREDTH. PI IS A MATHEMATICAL CONSTANT THAT DATES BACK 4,000 YEARS. ON MARCH 14 (3/14) OR PI DAY, WE CELEBRATE THE AMAZING WORLD OF MATH AND SCIENCE BY, WELL, EATING PIE!

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DID YOU KNOW? Blue was originally the official color of St. Patrick’s Day. Eventually that shifted to green, most likely due to Ireland’s nickname, “The Emerald Isle.”

Don’t forget to wear a bit of green to keep the leprechauns at bay this St. Patrick’s Day!

Who else is ready to start planning for summer camp? SW Ohio Parent is making it easy to browse the best summer camps and programs in our area with our Virtual Camp Fair. Now through June 30, explore a wide range of camps from the comfort of your home – from day camps to overnight camps, fine arts camps to recreational camps. You’ll learn what makes each camp unique and get answers to the questions parents ask most frequently when selecting a summer camp. See a complete list of participating camps on page 24-25 of this issue, and then head to ohparent.com/campfair to start exploring today!

Gear up for Spring After one too many snow filled days, it is time to start thinking Spring! The Cincinnati Zoo will once again welcome the season with an explosion of color during Zoo Blooms, beginning April 1. This colorful event features one of the largest tulip displays in the Midwest, and more than one million daffodils, hyacinths, flowering trees, shrubs and other spring bulbs exploding with color.

Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Dates: April 1-30 cincinnatizoo.org/events/zoo-blooms/

OUR COVER KID:

DANIEL

age // 9 years old my favorites COLOR FOOD SPORT RESTAURANT SCHOOL SUBJECT BOOK MOVIE SUPERHERO VIDEO GAME

Black Pizza and cheeseburgers Football Toppers Pizza Math Where the Red Fern Grows Avengers: Infinity War Winter Solider and Spider-Man Arsenal on Roblox

an interesting fact about me // I am left handed and double jointed on both elbows.

When I grow up // I want to make videos and be a YouTuber.

COVER PHOTO BY:

Gabrielle Cheikh Photography gcphotography.com

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PARENTING

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DAYTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL

Cooking with the Family What happens if an injury occurs in the kitchen?

Let’s eat! Cooking with the kids can be a fun and creative way to spend time together as a family.

“We know eating and cooking together is great for family bonding, but we want to make sure all members of the family have a safe and fun time while helping out in the kitchen,” says Dayton Children’s food equity manager Emily Callen.

“There are so many great recipes to be made. Here are a few things we need to keep in mind while we are cooking with kids.”

1. Involve children in cooking activities by identifying skills appropriate for the child’s age.

This may include measuring ingredients, reading labels and stirring non-heated items.

2. Wash your hands well at the start of any cooking adventure.

Wash them again when handling any raw meat or eggs, or anytime they feel dirty.

3. Whenever you are cooking in the kitchen, be sure to turn any handles on pots and pans inward so they are not hanging over the edge of the stove or countertop, and use the back burners first when possible. It is very easy for a child to reach up

Cooking can lead to injuries, ranging from minor to severe.

Here are the most common injuries Dayton Children’s emergency department sees related to cooking: Cuts and minor wounds: If a cut occurs, make sure to use a clean paper towel or gauze to apply pressure to the wound until the bleeding stops. Wash the wound with warm soapy water. Dry the wound, apply an antibacterial cream (like Neosporin) and bandage. and try to grab that pan and have hot ingredients spill on top of them.

4. Microwaves are often mounted high on the wall over the stove.

This makes children standing around the stove more vulnerable to spills and burns from microwaves.

5. Any time knives are being used in the kitchen, make sure that kids are watched under very close supervision. Practice keeping fingers tucked in and make sure they go nice and slow. If they are too young to use a knife, make sure the knives are stored on the back part of the counter, or in a drawer out of reach.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

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6. When cleaning up, make sure that you aren’t dropping any knives or sharp objects into soapy water. Leave those to the side, and clean them when you are ready. If you plunge your hand into soapy water with knives in it, you can easily cut yourself.

7. Clean and disinfect the counter surfaces after placing any uncooked meat in the oven.

Then it’s safe to begin preparing other, non-meat dishes.

8. Make sure your kitchen has a first-aid kit and fire extinguisher readily available.

Burns: If you get a minor burn, run the affected area under cold water until you feel relief. Then dry the area, apply a burn ointment, and bandage. Kids’ skin is thinner than adults; burns can be severe and may need specialized treatment. If the burn is severe, seek medical attention.

HIDDEN GEMS

WORDS BY SARAH MCCOSHAM

Johnson Nature Preserve

Southwest Ohio comes alive in the spring, and if you’re looking for a new, off-thebeaten-path place to stretch your legs, consider Johnson Nature Preserve.

Tucked away at the border of Montgomery and Blue Ash, Johnson Nature Preserve is a total hidden gem that’s just the right size for kids. The .35-mile loop is a great hike for little legs, and the preserve features an abundance of plants and wildlife.

Deer scamper throughout the Johnson Nature Preserve’s very accessible seven acres, which is also home to birds, turtles and other Ohio wildlife. Wildflowers bloom along the trail. A wooden bridge halfway through the path provides lots of entertainment for kids.

If your kids are older, hike through Johnson Nature Preserve and into the Harris M. Benedict Nature Preserve, a 65-acre site owned by UC for research on deciduous plants and animals. It’s actually a national preserve, because of the amount of rare species that have been found there.

If you were a Southwest Ohio resident in 1999, you’ll remember the devastating tornado that hit the area. Montgomery was one of the areas most affected, and the nature preserve stands as a testament to the tornado’s damage. Some 90% of the trees at the Johnson Nature Preserve were destroyed. Animal habitats were completely wiped out. Native plants were violently uprooted. In the 20 years since, the preserve has flourished, with new trees and foliage sprouting throughout. (The wind from the tornado actually dispersed seeds across the preserve, resulting in the abundance of plant life you’ll see today.) Johnson Nature Preserve serves as a timely reminder that out of devastation can come beauty.

With most of us still cautiously dipping our toes into 2021, Mother Nature is boldly playing by her own rules. Spring is arriving in Ohio, and we’re bearing witness to the most delightful changing of seasons. Trees are blossoming, flowers are blooming, temps are climbing and birds are providing a joyful spring soundtrack. It’s a much-needed reminder that this season we’re in, too, shall pass.

10840 Deerfield Rd., Montgomery montgomeryohio.org/johnsonnature-preserve

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Important Life Skills YO U R C H I L D L E A R N S I N PR E SC H OO L These early childhood years are full of learning and growing.

WORDS BY STEFFY MCCOURT

o what’s the problem?

There is only one toy. There are 20 preschool students.

s

During the morning meeting, the students will discuss and decide who will use the toy and when. Together they will navigate through different scenarios and decide upon rules that will leave everyone, hopefully, satisfied.

The skills required to peacefully negotiate a solution to this problem are skills that these 4-year-olds will use again and again — throughout their entire scholastic experience and on into their work lives.

Preschool Sets the Stage for Life Preschool provides young children with the opportunity to learn and practice important life skills, including independence, empathy, conflict resolution, how to listen and how to express oneself. It gives students a head start when entering kindergarten, as students who have been in preschool better understand how school works.

“Children really learn everything in preschool,” says Tracy Murch, head of Doherty Lower School at The Seven Hills School in Cincinnati. “[Preschool] is a really invaluable social opportunity, where one learns how to collaborate and be with someone else. It’s the beginning of understanding how to be a part of the community. How to respect one another and solve social differences.”

Play is Important Intentional play in preschool provides young children with the opportunity to develop skills, which will inevitably lead to students’ success.

“We promote learning through purposeful play,” Murch says. “We set routines that support academic skills. We also teach lessons that are 100% life skill lessons.”

One such lesson is The Market. Students research and learn what a market is. They learn about supply and demand. They create an actual market where they sell an item to their peers. They develop the advertisement, the product, and even the receipts. In all of this they are developing language and social skills like cooperation. They are also developing executive skills like time management. And the whole thing feels and looks like play.

Because it is.

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Emilie Parry, owner and administrator of Creative Tots Preschool in Cincinnati, says that in her school, the focus is on developing the whole child through social instruction and intentional play.

“When we created the curriculum, we always wanted to make sure that we were focusing on what the children are interested in,” Parry says.

An example of Creative Tots responsive curriculum is the way that handwriting is taught. Many different mediums are brought into the classroom to reach students where they are. A student might make the letter “C” out of playdough and sticks, before they ever even pick up a pencil.

Independence is Fostered In addition, a lot of learning in preschool happens within small groups.

Students are encouraged to ask their classmates for help before they ask the teacher. This encourages socialization and responsibility.

“An essential part of preschool is fostering independence,” Parry says.

“Starting with the toddler program, we encourage students to use their words to communicate with us. In the classroom, we encourage them to become leaders: getting their own coats on, doing classroom jobs. It’s all about learning responsibility within their community.”

Parry says that one thing that they really work on in preschool is developing problem-solvers and thinkers.

“We want the learning to be messy,” Parry says. “We do not want it to always go right. What you find with kids if the environment is so systematic, is that when they come to a problem, they quit. You have to have that messy kind of

learning in order for deep learning to happen. If you

can teach children to be thinkers, then no

matter what they are faced with, they

will be able to think their way

through it.”

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socially distant SPRING BREAK IDEAS

Where to go and what to do to have fun — and be safe — this spring break.

s

WORDS BY SARAH MCCOSHAM

pring break’s here… and, we’re still battling

a pandemic. But happily, spring is springing

here in Southwest Ohio, and between outdoor parks and attractions, there are a multitude of options for epic spring break fun. If you are staying local for spring break, Indy has tons of kid- and socially-distantfriendly activities to keep the whole family busy!

Explore some new places or things you’ve never done this spring break.

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includes an immersive audio-visual experience (don’t worry — it’s hands free) that puts kids in space alongside the astronauts.

For a classic museum-going experience, Northern Kentucky’s BehringerCrawford Museum is a total hidden gem. This under-the-radar museum is all about transportation, from trains to boats to classic cars. Outside, there’s an epic nature playscape, which is the perfect place for kids to run off that pent-up winter energy.

And, of course, Dayton’s Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is beyond cool, and features an impressive number of permanent and rotating exhibits. Kids will especially love the Discovery Zoo, Treehouse, and Explorers Crossing.

visit a museum

be a tourist

The Cincinnati Museum Center is always a good idea, and if you haven’t visited in awhile, you’ve probably missed out on some new exhibits. In the National History Museum, the “You Are Here” exhibit is one big love letter to Cincinnati, highlighting the people and places that make the Queen City special. And in the Museum of Natural History and Science, the Neil Armstrong Space Exploration Gallery’s recent expansion

Southwest Ohio offers not one, but two “big little cities,” each offering lots of opportunities for exploration. If you’re into the arts, head to Cincinnati. Between the Cincinnati Art Museum (CAM), Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) and Taft Museum of Art, you can easily spend a weekend immersed in the visual arts. Bonus: admission to CAM and CAC is always free, and admission at the Taft is free on Sundays.

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Prefer to experience art outdoors?

Bundle up and take a mural tour with ArtWorks Cincinnati. Many of these stunning works of art showcase Cincinnati history, making this activity both educational and Insta-worthy. At CAM, the new Art Climb is a fun way to experience art outside. And Butler County’s Pyramid Hill is perhaps the most incredible outdoor art museum ever, featuring larger-than-life sculptures across 300 rolling acres.

While you’re in Downtown Cincy, stop by Findlay Market, Ohio's oldest continuously operated public market. Or rent a pedal bike ride from Pedal Fun Cincinnati, an active outdoor adventure that lets you experience the city in a whole new way.

Of course, the Cincinnati Zoo is one of the area’s best attractions, and spring is *the* time to visit.

Embrace the beauty of the season

with Zoo Blooms, an exuberant celebration of spring. Running April 1-30, Zoo Blooms features over 100,000 colorful tulips in bloom, and is a must-visit spring event.

Another worth-the-drive ‘must’ is Franklin Park Conservatory, located just outside Columbus.

This hidden gem is easily one of the most beautiful and breathtaking places in all of Ohio, and truly accessible to everyone, from curious toddlers and active kids to avid gardeners and horticulturists. There, the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden is an incredible outdoor playscape kids will never want to leave.

Other socially-distant tourist musts in Southwest Ohio?

Trammel Fossil Park in Sharonville is an outdoor site where kids can dig (and take!) fossils from Ohio’s ancient past. And up in Yellow

Springs, Young’s Jersey Dairy is a beloved favorite. Kids will love visiting the farm animals and enjoying a fresh scoop of housemade ice cream at The Dairy Store.

And if you’re looking for a night away, Great Wolf Lodge makes for, well, a great staycation option.

This destination has everything your entire family desires under one roof: an indoor water park, activities, spa, games, delicious dining options, and a rustic “camping” kind of vibe. It’s basically an all-inclusive family getaway right here in Ohio.

connect with nature Southwest Ohio has no shortage of natural beauty that’s best enjoyed in the spring. Grab the kids and take a hike: Great Parks of Hamilton County, Cincinnati Parks, Cincinnati Nature Center and Five Rivers MetroParks all boast picturesque parks and trails perfect for enjoying.

If you prefer to take in nature on wheels, the Loveland Bike Trail is the way to go. Start in Downtown Loveland (near a fun playground/ picnic area), and from there, make the ride as long (or short) as you’d like. Grab a helmet and spend a day pedaling along the Little Miami, then stop for ice cream from the Loveland Graeter’s upon your return.

And if the campgrounds are calling your name, plan a night (or two) at Hueston Woods Lodge. There you can rent a cabin in the woods and enjoy a beautiful weekend of R&R. (We recommend buying a S’mores kit and having a bonfire outdoors for the ultimate ‘hygee’ experience.)

This spring break, embrace the season in Ohio, and plan some socially-distant fun with your family!

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PARENTING

WORDS BY AMERICAN CAMP ASSOCIATION

Camp Is More Essential Than Ever A Growth Mindset

Camp teaches really well.

So well, in fact, that kids have no idea they are learning. Camp is a kid-tested and parentapproved classroom with a curriculum that delivers daily lessons in resilience, diversity, problemsolving, collaboration, communication, flexible thinking and so much more. Camp builds an inclusive community where kids can be confident that they belong, that they will be respected and that they are among friends.

Here are some more lessons that kids learn during camp, that they might not even realize:

Community and Connection Camp creates a sense of community. It’s the kind of community that is not defined solely by proximity with one another, but rather by genuine connection, shared interests and experiences, a common sense of purpose and respect among its members.

Despite our best efforts, the sense of community and genuine connection that our kids have been able to derive from things like school, religious organizations and sports teams has been greatly diminished in recent months, if not altogether eliminated.

"Love challenges, be intrigued by mistakes, enjoy effort, and keep on learning." — Carol Dweck, Professor of Psychology at Stanford University

This quote is the basis for what Carol Dweck and others refer to as a growth mindset. People with a growth mindset believe that their talents, abilities and intelligence can all be developed through effort, persistence and learning.

Camp is a perfect environment for supporting and developing a growth mindset.

This has left a significant gap in an area that is fundamental to our kids' sense of social-emotional health and overall wellbeing. At camp, a sense of community and connection is the primary goal. The other learning and social-emotional outcomes of camp are then able to follow organically and seamlessly.

A Sense of Belonging Think about that feeling in your stomach when you walk into a situation where you just know you don’t belong. If you are like most people, this feeling did not make you want to try something new, openly share something personal, or engage in just about anything that would resemble a pro-social behavior. A sense of belonging is a basic human need and of vital importance during our kids’ developmental years.

When this need is met for our campers, they are more likely to: · Have the confidence to try new things

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· Display resilience in the face of adversity · Be comfortable being themselves and demonstrate respect for others doing the same · Show empathy toward their peers · Act selflessly to support the goals and needs of the group For young people, a sense of belonging is even more important during periods of transition.

Ensuring that our campers feel a sense of belonging is foundational to the camp experience. Camp staff model and reinforce behaviors that support inclusivity, kindness to others, respect for our differences and empathy toward others.

At camp, not only will your child be made to feel like they belong, but they will be given the tools and opportunity to practice the skills necessary to make others feel the same.

Campers are encouraged to stretch themselves outside of their comfort zones, be comfortable making mistakes, persevere when things don’t go their way and celebrate the success of others.

Through the camp experience, kids learn that things don’t always go your way, failures are a normal part of life and learning, being resilient leads to success, and it is smart to ask for help from others.

We have all experienced setbacks and challenges over the past few months. Chances are, the next few months may include more of the same. A growth mindset can help our kids better manage the emotional toll that this can have and come out stronger on the other side.

Reprinted from Camping Magazine by permission of the American Camp Association; ©2021 by the American Camping Association, Inc. This article was shortened for length and content, and the full article can be read at acacamps.org/campers-families/ parent-blog/camp-more-essentialever

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2021 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE DAY CAMPS Camp-A-Palooza at Kids First Sports Center Greater Cincinnati’s most talked about summer camp experience! Why? Four words: Kids First Sports Center… 108,000 square feet of kids sports heaven!

Imagine a summer camp taking place in the country’s largest children’s activity center with exceptional instruction in the most popular children’s recreational pursuits: Swimming, Gymnastics, Dance, Trampoline & Tumbling and Soccer!

Dates: June 1 - August 20, 2021 • Hours: 7-9am - Before Care. 9am-4pm Camp .

4-6pm - After Care • Ages: 5 - 15 years old 7900 East Kemper Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Julie Halusek, Email: info@ kidfirstsports.com, Phone: (513) 489-7575, kidsfirstsports.com/camps-events/ camp-a-palooza-camps

Camp Art Academy Camp Art Academy is an awardwinning, memorable art experience for your camper! Balancing technical instruction with freedom of selfexpression, Camp Art Academy’s curriculum includes fundamental visual art skill building activities, two and three dimensional hands-on experiences, top-notch guest artists and creative problem solving with lots of fun!

Dates: June 7-11, June 14-18, June 21-25, July 5-9, July 12-16, July 19-23 • Hours: Full Day 9:00 am - 4:30 pm, Half Day 9:00 am - 12:15 pm OR from 1:15 pm to 4:30 • Ages: 5-12 1212 Jackson Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Contact: Sam Holloway, Email: sholloway@ artacademy.edu, Phone: (513) 562-8762, artacademy.edu/com-ed/summer-artcamp/summer-art-camp.php

Camp at the J Presenting Cincinnati’s Best Day Camp as voted by in the 2020 Best of Parenting poll, Camp at the J! We cannot wait for another magical summer filled with memories and friendships that last a lifetime. Campers will be grouped into pods no larger than 12 with all campers and staff required to wear masks when inside the facility while maintaining a social distance. Sign your kids up for a summer to remember with flexible weekly options available.

Dates: June 14 - August 6 • Hours: 9:30am - 3:30pm *Extended Care Available • Grades: K - 8 8485 Ridge Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45236, Contact: Anne Goldstein, Phone: 513.722.7241, Email: daycamp@mayersonjcc.org, MayersonJCC.org/Camp

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Camp Curiosity at Rockwern Academy

and challenging stage experience this summer! Learn more online.

How to Raise a Young Gentleman

Here comes the sun! Join Rockwern Academy's Early Childhood Education Center for a fun, creative camp for little learners. Our small, nurturing school environment and experienced staff help young children discover new skills, gain confidence, and thrive! Campers will enjoy outdoor water activities, arts and crafts, music, storytime, and more. Camp will operate with the same safety measures that helped to keep our school safe and open during the year.

Dates: June and July 2021 • Grades: 3-12 • Cost: $295/week

Youth attending this camp acquire etiquette skills, potential to step forward meeting lifelong goals. Those with etiquette training are more likely to carry themselves in social and dining situations confidently. Giving them the tools in a motivational environment that builds self-esteem and desire to present oneself properly in any setting. For details and location, call 888-354-4639.

Dates: Session 1: June 7 - 25; Session 2: June 28 - July 16 (no camp July 5); Session 3: July 19 - August 6 • Ages: 18 months - 5 years (entering kindergarten) • Hours: Full day (9:00 AM - 3:00 PM), half day (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM), 3 (MWF) or 5 (M-F) days/week options. After Care may be available, depending on interest.

8401 Montgomery Rd , Cincinnati, OH 45236, Contact: Amber Feldman, Camp Director or Toni Brownell, Director of the Early Childhood Education Center, Email: amfeldman@ rockwernacademy.org or tobrownell@ rockwernacademy.org, Phone: 513-984-3770, RockwernAcademy.org/Camp

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company at The Otto M. Budig Theater, 1195 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Phone: 513-381-2273, cincyshakes.com/summercamp

Greenacres Foundation Summer adventures return for 2021 in our fun and safe day camps! Each program offers its own, unique, way to explore all that Greenacres has to offer. A Greenacres camp will fill your child’s summer with unforgettable experiences and are tailored to be age appropriate.

We look forward to hosting your children in one of our programs. See you in June!

Dates: June 14 to August 6 • Ages: 5 - 13 8255 Spooky Hollow Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45242, Contact: Katie Brown, Email: camp@ green-acres.org, Phone: (513) 898-3262, green-acres.org/camps

Greene County Parks & Trails

Are your kids ready for summer? Give them the experience of nature & wonder Cincinnati Art Museum with one or all of the summer camp Summer Camp options with Greene County Parks & Trails! Camps include adventures, art, Jump into art with eight weeks of exciting outdoor skills to learning about art projects, gallery games, and more!

Sasquatch, all while being immersed in Explore a different theme each week with the natural word! There is something for activities taught by skilled educators and every curious kiddo from ages 2 up to 17 museum staff. Designed for children ages - Find the ideal match today!

6–12. Convenient before- and after-care available. Registration open!

Dates: June- Mid-August • Hours: Varies • 953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati OH 45202, Phone: (513) 721-2787, Email: CAMsummercamp@cincyart.org, cincinnatiartmuseum.org/summercamp

Cincinnati Playhouse in Park Summer Theatre Camp and Performance Academy Join us for a Summer of Play! Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park offers children and introduction to the exciting world of live theatre! Choose from full day, one-week camps and multi-week performance academy programs.

Camps for ages 6 to 17 offered at the Playhouse in Mt. Adams and in Mason.

Ages: 6-17 Phone: (513) 421-3888, cincyplay.com

Cincinnati Theatre Summer Camp Whether you’ve never stepped on a stage before, or have already been bitten by the acting bug, our theatre camps are the perfect place to learn some new skills, make some new friends, and have a whole lot of fun! In person programs for students in grade 3-12 who want a fun

Ages: 2-5, 6-9,10-13,14-17

635 Dayton-Xenia Rd, Xenia, Ohio 45385, Contact: Hanna Lamb, Email: hlamb@ gcparkstrails.com, Phone: (937) 562-6440, reservations.gcparkstrails.com/programs

Heritage Village Museum Our 19th century village is the perfect location for history camp! Campers can travel into the past to experience life during the Civil War or discover what life was like for Native Americans. Campers will learn about history through games, crafts, food, songs, and hands-on activities. Native American interpreters and museum docents in historical clothing will lead some of the activities.

Dates: Civil War Camp Jun. 7-11, Native American Camp Jun. 21-25, Immersive History Camp July 12-16 and Aug. 2-6 • Hours: 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. There is a come early/stay late option. Campers can be dropped off as early as 8:00 a.m. and picked up as late as 5:30 p.m. for an additional daily fee of $15 • Ages: Ages 6-12 for Civil War and Native American Camps, Ages 13-15 for Immersive History Camp 11500 Lebanon Road, Sharonville, OH 45241, Contact: Steve Preston, Phone: (513) 563-9484, heritagevillagecincinnati.org/summer-camp

Dates: July 17 & 18, 2021 • Hours: 10:00 am-4:00 pm • Ages: 8 - 15 The Lost Art, LLC, 9378 Mason Montgomery Rd. Suite 237, Mason, OH; Phone: 888-354-4639; email: info@thelostart.net; thelostart.net

MidPointe Library Summer Reading Program MidPointe Library System is bringing you a season of fun with its annual Summer Reading Program. Pick up a “Tails and Tales” activity map and create your own adventure by completing challenges to win prizes. Families can enjoy activities together, exploring new books or finding fun around the house and in your community.

Dates: June 1 – July 31 • Ages: All ages Available at all MidPointe Library System locations (West Chester, Middletown, Liberty Township, Monroe & Trenton), Contact person: Cari Hillman, Phone: 513-424-1251, MidPointeLibrary.org

Museum Camps at The Cincinnati Museum Center Explore science, technology, history and the arts through creative activities and games at Cincinnati Museum Center’s fun and educational Museum Camps.

Whether there’s a day or a week off from school, there’s a camp for that.

Dates: May-August • Hours: 9am-4pm • Ages: 5 to 14 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45203, Contact: Nora Eskridge, Email: information@ cincymuseum.org, Phone: (513) 728-0082, cincymuseum.org/museum-camps/

Snapology of West Chester TWP At Snapology we understand that children are meant to learn through play! When children are actively engaged in hands-on, interactive learning activities their creativity flourishes and they show a greater interest in school. Snapology engages children using LEGO® bricks, K’Nex & technology, helping your child develop a thirst for knowledge. While the kids are having fun we sneak in the learning!

Dates: 6/7/21 - 7/30/21 • Hours: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm • Ages: 4 to 14 7568 Wyandot Lane, Liberty Twp, OH 45044, * SPONSORED LISTINGS

Contact: Nicolette Modes, Email: westchestertwp@snapology.com, Phone: (614) 657-7391, westchestertwp.snapology.com

it's fun too! (Themed Day Camps, Preschool Camps, Teen Camps, Counselor-in-Training programs, and more).

Taft Museum of Art Summer Art Camp

Dates: Camps run May through August; dates for each camp are available on the website • Ages: 3-15 • Cost: Cost varies depending on each camp. Pricing and camp brochures are available online

Whether your child is thinking about becoming an artist or just likes to have fun making art, our small classes and safe, hands-on activities with experienced teachers will make this a summer of fun. Plus campers will also get to explore a hybrid of experiences thanks to the great art the Cincinnati area has to offer including right here at the Taft.

Dates: Students entering grades 1–3: May 31–June 4 or June 7–11, Students entering grades 4–6: June 14–18 or June 21–25, Students entering grades 7–12 : June 28– July 2 • Hours: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. • Ages: Students entering grades 1–3, 4–6, 7–12 316 Pike Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Email: education@taftmuseum.org, taftmuseum.org/ families-children/summer-camp

The Summit Country Day Summer Camp The Summit Country Day School welcomes students from the tri-state area to enjoy summer in-person on our Hyde Park campus. With programs for children ages 3-grade 12, parents can take comfort knowing that your child is exploring their curious nature, enjoying time with friends and exploring a new topic or hobby. Both full-day and half-day camps are available.

Registration opens February 1, 2021.

Dates: June 1 to August 6 2161 Grandin Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45230, Phone: (513) 871-4700, summitcds.org/ programs/summit-summer

TriHealth Fitness & Health Pavilion: 2021 Summer Camps This summer, bring your kids to the TriHealth Fitness & Health Pavilion for sports galore & more. We keep your kids active all summer with our variety of uniquely themed-camp for kids ages five & up. Take advantage of our latest offers this summer & give your child a great camp experience. Enroll by May 1st to receive Special Discounts. Camps are filling up at the Pavilion. Enroll Now! Dates: June 7- August 6 • Hours: 7:30 a.m.- 6 p.m. • Ages: 5-14 6200 Pfeiffer Raod, Montgomery, OH 45242, Contact: LaShaunda Jones, Email: lashaunda_ jones@trihealth.com, Phone: (513) 246-2647, trihealth.com/hospitals-and-practices/ trihealth-fitness-and-health-pavilion/ kids-programs/kids-classes-and-camps

YMCA of Greater Cincinnati Summer Day Camps Overnight, day and specialty camps at the Y are all about discovery. Kids have the opportunity to explore nature, find new talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting friendships and memories. And, of course,

12 locations throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, Phone: 513-362-YMCA, myY.org/camp

YMCA of Greater Dayton & Surrounding Communities Developmentally appropriate skills based trip and travel program, the YMCA places an emphasis on equity and the core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, which is the basis of our camp culture. Make new friends, learn new skills, be safe, and have fun! Campers will participate in outdoor activities, swimming, sports, arts & crafts, games, field trips, and summer adventures.

Dates: June, July, August • Hours: 9:00-4:00 and Extended Care Available 6:30-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM • Ages: Completed Kindergarten (5) - Age 14 Contact: Valerie Holland, Email: vholland@ daytonymca.org, Phone: (937) 866-9622, daytonymca.org/programs/child-careprograms/summer-day-camp

X-treme HorsePower Camp at Heavenward Farm Enjoy the outdoors and learn about horses and riding! Horse care, Riding Instruction, Trail Rides, Crafts, Boating, Fishing, Games and Biblical life lessons are all packed into this fun and meaningful camp experience. Limited enrollment, so REGISTER online NOW. Dates: Week 1: June 28-July 2, Week 2: July 19-23 • Hours: 9:00am-2:30pm • Ages: 8-14 • Special Needs Offered: High-functioning Autism, Hearing-impaired, Anxiety 7084 Ludlum Rd., Morrow, OH 45152, Contact: Carole Bower, Email: admin@ heavenwardfarm.org, Phone: (513) 289-9434, heavenwardfarm.org

RESIDENTIAL CAMPS Falcon Camp Recognized throughout the midwest as Ohio’s premier summer camp since 1959.

Beautiful lakefront setting, talented experienced staff and wide variety of activities. Campers choose own schedules within general framework.

Most of all it’s great fun! Special intro for 6-9 year olds. ACA accredited. At Falcon, good things happen by design.

Dates: June 20 - August 14 in various session lengths • Hours: 9am-4pm • Ages: 6-16 • Gender of Campers: Boys and girls daily activities separate with planned co-ed activities 4251 Delta Rd SW, Carrollton, OH 44615, Contact: Dave Devey, Email: dave@falconcamp. com, Phone: (216) 991-2489, falconcamp.com

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CONTACT KATIE@OHPARENT.COM

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2021 Spring Consignment and Resale Guide Calling all budget-conscious caregivers: Spring consignment season is here! If you’re looking to snag some great deals on children’s clothing, toys and all-things kid and baby, check out these local offerings all around southwest Ohio. Note: Due to the constantly

If you can’t make it to one of the mega-sales, then check out these consignment stores that buy and sell children’s clothing and goods all year round.

Clothes Mentor

Changing Hands Sale

Beavercreek: 2750 N Fairfield Rd. Cincinnati: 12151 Royal Point Dr. Cincinnati: 3880 Paxton Ave., Suite E West Chester: 8154 Princeton Glendale Rd.

Date: March 6

clothesmentor.com

changing climate of the pandemic, event details are subject to change.

Location: Madeira Elementary School, 7840 Thomas Dr., Madeira More info: changinghandssale. com

Anything for Kids Spring 2021 Tag Sale Date: March 20-22 Location: Online/Virtual More info: facebook.com/ events/427169582064850

Faith MOPS Baby and Kids Sale Date: March 27

Once Upon a Child Beavercreek: 2750 N. Fairfield Rd. Cincinnati: 9136 Union Cemetery, Fields Ertel Cincinnati: 8550 Beechmont Ave., Anderson Cincinnati: 6153 Glenway Ave., Western Hills Cincinnati: 10160 Colerain Ave., Colerain Cincinnati: 3880 D Paxton Ave., Hyde Park Dayton: 8317 Springboro Pike Huber Heights: 8256 Old Troy Pike West Chester: 7758 Dudley Dr. onceuponachild.com

Location: 5910 Price Rd., Milford More info: facebook.com/ FaithMOPSbabysale

TWIG 3 Mom’s Market Date: April 10-14 Location: Online/Virtual More info: twig3springboro.com/ projects

Plato’s Closet (Tween and teen clothing) Beavercreek: 2750 North Fairfield Rd., Suite C Cincinnati: 8550 Beechmont Ave., Suite 1200 Cincinnati: 10212 Colerain Ave. Cincinnati: 9148 Union Cemetery Rd. Dayton: 8319 Springboro Pike Findlay: 1829 Tiffin Ave. Huber Heights: 8252 Old Troy Pike clothesmentor.com

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THINGS TO DO

MARCH PLEASE NOTE DUE TO COVID-19, THESE EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. PLEASE CHECK TO VERIFY EVENTS ARE STILL BEING HELD AS SCHEDULED BEFORE MAKING PLANS TO ATTEND BY CALLING OR VISITING THE BUSINESS OR EVENT WEBSITE.

MON 01 Kids Grab & Go Craft-

Color Mixing Shamrock Pick up the new themed craft supplies from our ‘Grab and Go’ Center.

Supplies are limited. • Time: 12 pm, Location: Preble County Library, preblelibrary.org FREE

TUES 02 Snake Handling and

Feeding Join the front desk staff for a 10-20 minute mini-program on our resident non-venemous snakes. • Time: 11-11:15am, Location: Cincinnati Nature

Penguin Days

Enjoy discounted admission and waddle to the Zoo and save money during Penguin Days! Penguin Parades return at 11am on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in 2021!

Plus, although it will look a little different than year’s past, daily Penguin Encounters are back every day at 11:00am. • Location:

Cincinnati Zoo, cincinnatizoo.org/events/penguindays

SAT 06 Preschool Parent & Me

Cooking Class Share your love for learning and cooking with your little one in these fun, interactive Healthy Hands Cooking (HHC) classes.

HHC classes are theme based and start with an age appropriate nutrition activity to set the stage for learning. Ages 2-5, preregistration required. • Time: 10-11 am, Location: Vandalia Senior Center, facebook. com/VandaliaRec

Center, cincynature.org

THURS 04 Art Play Hike Join us this month as we explore French Park, take part in hands-on art making and try out some kid-friendly yoga poses. • Time: 10:30-11:30am, Location: French Park, Cincinnati, facebook.com/CincyParks FREE

FRI 05 Kids Night Out Kids, come

on out and have a blast! You will enjoy all the activities the Vandalia Recreation Center has to offer, like swimming, climbing the rock wall and additional games and crafts. Registration is recommended but not required. • Time: 6-9:45 pm, Location: Vandalia Recreation Center, facebook.com/VandaliaRec

Junior Girl Scout Program: Playing the Past Jump into life in the early 1800s. Go to school, play some pioneer games and make some toys.

Craft supply pickup will be at Parky’s Farm on Thursday before the program 3 – 6 p.m. A zoom meeting invitation will be sent 1 hour before the program.Registration closes 3 days prior to program.

• Times: 9-10 a.m. & 11 a.m.-Noon, Location: Virtual, Cost: $8/person, greatparks.org/calendar

Stonelick Star Gazes This is a great opportunity to view planets, galaxies, nebulae, star clusters and stars. You’ll see many different types of telescopes in action, ask questions and become involved in the fascinating world of astronomy. Free stargazes are held only if the skies are clear. • Time:

SUN 07 Free Family STEAM Night Explore the wonders of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math (or STEAM) with your family! Enjoy an exciting evening of hands-on learning activities and games, as you become engineers to tackle difficult real-world problems. •

Time: 6-7:30 pm, Location: The STEM Lab, Sharonville, cincystemlab.com

MON 08 Teen Grab & Go Craft-

Yarn Songbirds Pick up the new themed craft supplies from the Grab and Go Center. Supplies are limited. • Time: 12 pm, Location: Preble County Library, preblelibrary.org

WED 10 Playful Picassos Voilà! These classes will introduce your child to crafting, paint and the colors of the rainbow. During each class, your child will make and take home their own masterpiece.

Ages 1-4. • Time: 5-6 pm, Location: Vandalia Recreation Center, facebook.com/VandaliaRec

THURS 11 Homeschool Club @

Home Join us for fun and educational activities.

Topics will include science, social studies, creative writing and more. Activities are best suited for kids ages 6-12. Please register in order to receive the information to join this online only meeting. • Time: 1-2:00 pm, Location: Virtual via Dayton Metro Library, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

After dark, Location: Stonelick State Park, cincinnatiobservatory.org FREE

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FREE / free for families!

*ONGOING /a recurring event

*SN / special needs friendly

/ a SW Ohio Parent favorite!

SAT 13 Mom2Mom Consignment

WED 17 The Fairfield Farmers

SUN 21 Wildflower Stroll Join

Church, Tipp City, facebook.com/kidsavenuegum

4-6:30 pm, Location: Fairfield Community Arts Center, fairfield-city.org

Location: Rowe Woods, cincynature.org

Sale Brand-name kids clothing in newborn to teen sizes, maternity, toys, games, furniture, nursery items and more! • Time: 9 am-3 pm, Location: Ginghamsburg

Maya: The Exhibition Through April 4.

For the first time in the United States, the mysteries of the Maya come to life. Through over 300 artifacts, discover how the Maya live on today — in their inventions that continue to shape our daily lives and in the millions who carry on the Maya tradition in language and lineage. • Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, cincymuseum.org *ONGOING

SUN 14 Build a Mason Bee House Create a home for native Mason bees in this family-friendly virtual workshop. • Time: 1:30-3pm, Location: Online via Cincinnati Nature Center, cincynature.org

TUES 16 Tot Tuesdays Museum

activities and crafts just for your little ones, offered both in person and virtually. Free for members. This month’s theme: Leprechauns • Time: 10:30-11:30 am, Location: Behringer-Crawford Museum, Covington, bcmuseum.org

Market The market continues indoors on the first and third Wednesday of each month. • Time:

Storytime Outside Enjoy books, songs, activities and more, while building early literacy skills.

Recommended for ages birth-6. • Time: 10:00 AM –

naturalist Noel for a Sunday stroll and learn what wildflowers are blooming. • Time: 11-11:45 am,

TUES 23 Outdoor Storytime:

Preschool Enjoy books, songs, activities and more, while building early literacy skills.

Recommended for ages 3-6. Registration is required. •

10:45 AM, Location: Cincinnati & Hamilton Co. Library Westwood Branch, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

Time: 11-11:30 am, Location: Symmes Township Branch, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

SAT 20 Winter Farmers Market

WED 24 Take and Make Crafts

Every 3rd Saturday of the month from November - April, find local, delicious, consumable products for our neighbors. We are open rain, shine, snow or sleet. • Time: 10-11 am, Location: Kingwood Park, Mason, facebook.com/Deerfield- Township-Farmers-Market- 482352488511134

Daisy Scouts: Outdoor Art Maker Get outdoors and observe the beauty of nature around us. Like an artist, we’ll look at size, shape, and color, then make nature art to take home. Dress for the weather.

Registration closes 2 days prior to program. •

Times: 9-10:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Location: Glenwood Gardens/Cotswold Visitor Center, Cost: $8/person, greatparks.org/calendar

Stop by the Hyde Park Branch anytime during open hours to take home and enjoy a Take and Make kit. •

Time: All Day, Location: Cincinnati & Hamilton Co. Library,

cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

FRI 26 Glow Night Friday Nights Lasers, music and blacklight transform the whole park into a crazy jumping dance club. Remember to wear a light colored shirt that glows under black light such as white or neon colors. Ages 8+. •

Time: 8-10 pm, Location: SkyZone Trampoline Park, Dayton, skyzone.com/dayton

SUN 21 I WILDFLOWER STROLL AT THE

CINCINNATI NATURE CENTER'S ROWE WOODS

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SAT 27 Hello Spring Craft Show There is fun to be had at this all inclusive venue! The craft show will consist of tons of unique vendors.

After the craft show, enjoy a walk through of some of EnterTRAINments festivities. • Time: 10 am-3 pm, Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, entertrainmentjunction.com

Preschool Story Hour at Gorman Farms Through March. Have fun on the farm and in the garden with your preschooler while practicing early reading skills! Gorman Heritage Farm's preschool story hours offer fun and engaging farm experiences paired with the best in children's literature designed for emergent readers ages 2-5 years. • Location: Gorman Farm, Cincinnati,

Winter Birds Art Display Select Days Through March 26. Delight in the uniquely made winter birds displayed throughout the garden. Local students from Mercer Elementary created these wonderful reflections of nature. Find inspiration and joy through the artistic eyes of these youngsters. •

Sweet Maple Days Through early March.

Explore the sweeter side of winter! Go on a guided hike, tour a maple sugaring house and more. Great for families and adventurers of all ages. • Location:

Madness in March March 1-31. Experience some “mad” savings at EnterTrainment Junction; visit the Amaze-N-Funhouse for half off, then have lunch at the cafe- hot dogs are only 50 cents all month long! • Location: EnterTRAINment Junction,

gormanfarm.org

The Great Ohio Toy Show More than 300 tables of toys of all kinds! Kids 12 and under are free. • Time: 9 am-4 pm, Location: Greene County Fairgrounds & Expo Center, facebook.com/ events/371385077445196

Rowe Woods, Cincinnati, cincynature.org

Liberty Township Easter Egg Hunt Enjoy a morning of egg hunts by age group, kids craft area presented by the Fitton Center for Creative Arts, delicious goodies available for purchase from Joe's Mojo and of course the Easter Bunny! • Time: 10

am-Noon, Location: Liberty Park, Cincinnati, gettothebc. com

WED 31 Family Storytime @

Home Join us online for quality family time with books, songs and fun activities for children of all ages and caregivers to enjoy together. Registration required. • Time: 4-4:15 pm, Location: Virtual via Dayton Metro Library, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

ONGOING EVENTS Rapunzel’s Hairy Fairy Tale The classic fairy tale of Rapunzel comes to life in an exciting world-premiere musical adaptation adventure featuring everyone’s favorite long-locked lady in a tower. But don’t forget the array of other characters braided in this hairy fairy tale, comically played by only two actors! • Through March 21.

Time: See website, Location: The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, thechildrenstheatre.com

Penguin Days Through March 12.

Enjoy discounted admission and waddle to the Zoo and save money during Penguin Days! Penguin Parades return at 11am on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in 2021! Plus, although it will look a little different than year’s past, daily Penguin Encounters are back every day at 11:00am. • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, cincinnatizoo.

org/events/penguin-days

Maya: The Exhibition Through April For the first time in the United States, the mysteries of the Maya come to life. Through over 300 artifacts, discover how the Maya live on today — in their inventions that continue to shape our daily lives and in the millions who carry on the Maya tradition in language and lineage. • Location: Cincinnati Museum 4.

Center, cincymuseum.org

SPACE: A Journey to Our Future January 28 Through May 2. This highly interactive exhibition ignites the desire for space exploration and discovery, sparking imaginations, and inspiring new generations of explorers to dream of the possibilities that lie ahead. Highlights include touching actual rocks from the lunar surface and the red planet, exploring a Mars Base Camp while walking through a full-size habitat and work pod, taking a spin on a centrifuge, and looking far into the future of our exploration of the universe. • Location: National Air Force Museum, nationalmuseum.af.mil

Time: Wednesdays - Saturdays 10:30am - 4:30pm and Sundays noon-4:30pm, Location: Glenwood Gardens/ Highfield Discovery Garden, greatparks.org/calendar

entertrainmentjunction.com

Festival of the Arts Through March 19.

Save the date! Festival of the Arts is back for its 7th annual year! The Blue Ash Recreation Center will be transformed into an art gallery, showcasing young artists from surrounding schools (K-12). This event is FREE to attend. Registration required online. •

Location: Blue Ash Recreation Center, facebook.com/ events/1389866798033889 FREE

Backyard Wildnerness Explore the unexpected wonders of nature that are right under our noses. Peer inside wildlife dens, crawl along the forest floor and swim along the pond bottom as you meet the creatures who call them home in breathtaking and intimate detail. Spanning a full year of seasons, Backyard Wilderness reveals the wild that surrounds even our suburban homes and that Wi-Fi is not the only connection that matters.

All of this right in our own backyards. You just need to step outside. • Location: Cincinnati Museum Center,'s Robert D. Lindner Family OMNIMAX® Theater, cincymuseum.org/omnimax/backyard-wilderness

Dora and Diego—Let's Explore!

Through July 25. Come on! ¡Vámanos!

Nickelodeon’s Dora and Diego—Let’s Explore! takes you on an active adventure in the enchanting world of Dora the Explorer, her animal-rescuing cousin Diego, and their friends. • Location: The

Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org

Barbie: You Can Be Anything Through 2021. From career dolls to real-world role models, Barbie has been inspiring girls since 1959 — and she isn't done yet! The exhibit showcases the iconic Barbie doll and encourages the kind of imaginative play that teaches us that no matter what, we can all make the world a better place by doing work that excites us, challenges us and brings us fulfillment. • Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org

SAT 27 I LIBERTY TOWNSHIP EASTER EGG HUNT AT LIBERTY PARK

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EDUCATION GUIDE CHILDCARE & PRESCHOOL

MONTESSORI

A Million Dreams Learning Center

Central Montessori Academy

New Learning Center now open in Milford, OH! Now Enrolling ages 6 weeks - School Age! We strive to provide an environment, staff, and programs that will enhance and encourage the million dreams of each child, family, and staff member. Through our classroom design, playground design and Christian curriculum, it is this Center’s desire to maintain a joy-filled, peaceful, creative environment for infants and children. We are committed to furnishing such an environment and adding a quality of childcare that is desirable and much needed in our community. • 541 Main Street, Milford OH

Authentic Montessori environment, serving toddler through 6th grade. Small class sizes allow each student to progress at an individual pace. Part-time preschool and extended day are available. Our school is a place of discovery, curiosity, respect and enthusiasm. Come take a tour and see for yourself. Authentic Montessori environment, serving toddler through 6th grade. Small class sizes allow each student to progress at an individual pace. Part-time preschool and extended day are available. Our school is a place of discovery, curiosity, respect and enthusiasm. Come take a tour and see for yourself. • 1904 Springdale Rd.,

45150, Contact: Kate Jordan, Phone: (513) 831-5806, Email: info@amilliondreamslc.org, amilliondreamslc.org

The Campus at Kids First We have FULL DAY Kindergarten!

Located inside the nationally acclaimed Kids First Sports Center, The Campus offers the premier early learning experience for children ages 6 weeks through Kindergarten. As the only early learning center in the area that makes physical education a top priority, The Campus at Kids First gives your child an academic edge by integrating a world class physical education (including gymnastics, basketball, yoga and soccer!) curriculum in to the daily schedule, at NO additional cost! Our carefully selected and loving teachers utilize a relevance-based 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

* SPONSORED LISTINGS

Cincinnati, OH 45231, Contact: Kristin Patterson, Phone: 513-742-5800, Fax: 513-742-5870, Email: info@ centralmontessoriacademy.com, CentralMontessoriAcademy.com, Grades: Toddler-Grade 6, Enrollment: 100

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

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

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

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

Mercy Montessori Center

SPECIAL NEEDS

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,

Linden Grove School

The New School Montessori

Myrtle Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45236, lindengroveschool.org, Phone: (513) 984-2215, headofschool@lindengroveschool.org

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

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

The 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

Linden Grove School is a stateaccredited, non-public K-8 school offering a specialized learning environment for students with ASD and related learning needs. Our progressive education program integrates academics, social-emotional learning, and specialized therapies. We partner with families to create a respectful, rewarding and supportive environment, inspiring hope for all and providing each student with the opportunity for personal growth and independence. After-school programs and summer camp are also available for enrolled students. • 4122

Springer School and Center For nearly 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: 513871-6428, Email: jwieging@springer-ld.org, springer-LD.org, Grades: 1 through 8, Enrollment: 200

VIRTUAL + RESIDENTIAL P.A.C.E. at National Louis University P.A.C.E. at National Louis University (NLU) is a three-year post-secondary program designed for young adults with multiple intellectual, learning and developmental disabilities ready to thrive in the vibrant city of Chicago! We are one of the leading residential-based programs in the country that provides a unique real world arena for our students to put theory into practice every day. Instruction integrates employment preparation, independent living skills coaching, functional academic courses and social development into a curriculum that actively involves the student in the process and is directly linked to events and activities encountered in daily living. • Phone: (312) 261-3245, Email: epotter3@nl.edu, nl.edu/ paceatnlu; Virtual College Field Trip: ccalendly.com/paceatnlu/collegefieldtrip

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

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WORDS BY SARAH MCCOSHAM

Local Spotlight: Cincinnati Parks Foundation

This organization is committed to supporting conservation, activation and advocacy of Cincy parks and greenspaces.

Cincinnati Parks Foundation is the official non-profit partner of Cincinnati Parks. Now in its 26th year, the Cincinnati Parks Foundation is a network of volunteers committed to supporting the Cincinnati Park system — all 130+ parks and greenspaces across the city. This is done through supporting conservation, activation, and advocacy.

But the Cincinnati Parks were not immune to the struggles of 2020: The pandemic forced events to be canceled, buildings to close and volunteering to be reduced. But it’s a new year and a season, and the Cincinnati Parks Foundation is proving itself to be a formidable force, and one of the pandemic’s unsung heroes.

Southwest Ohio Parent spoke with Jennifer H. Spieser, executive director of Cincinnati Parks Foundation, about how the organization weathered the storm, what’s next — and why the parks are so important.

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Tell us about the Cincinnati Parks Foundation's history.

The Cincinnati Parks Foundation is a non-profit organization, founded in 1995, with the purpose of raising funds for the support of Cincinnati Parks. Along with raising funds, the Cincinnati Parks Foundation raises awareness and

support for Cincinnati Parks by educating the public on the added value greenspace provides to our community and environment. The Cincinnati Parks Foundation's mission is "to build broad-based private/public partnerships supporting the conservation and enhancement of our City's parks and greenspaces" – ultimately, to help find partners who understand the value and power of Cincinnati Parks within our city.

What types of projects does Cincinnati Parks Foundation work on?

The Cincinnati Parks Foundation works from a three-year strategic plan. Working with the Cincinnati Park Board in 2018, eight neighborhood parks were selected to concentrate our fundraising efforts within. The parks were geographically diverse, and needed a variety of capital improvements. To date, six of the eight parks have been funded to receive everything from new playgrounds and playscapes to irrigation lines and new trees.

2020 was *a year* for everyone — Cincinnati Parks included. What kinds of initiatives did you bring about as a result of the pandemic?

Food disparity is always a major concern, but certainly became one for our organization, as we worked to provide $20,000 to the Cincinnati Recreation Commission in order to support feeding children attending their before- and after-school programs.

[In 2020] we also invested into a program with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital aimed at providing safe and accessible programming in Cincinnati Parks to children suffering with illnesses and early onset disabilities; these programs were provided to hundreds of children last year, and has opened up new opportunities for community partnerships, including Luke 5 Adventures, who provided an accessible hiking chair to children.

Why are the Cincinnati Parks so important, especially now?

Parks are much like public libraries: the last truly democratic spaces of our time; free and accessible for all. When everything shut down during last spring’s stay-at-home orders, we helped bring Cincinnati Parks to people’s homes virtually, because the parks are more important now more than ever, and we recognize that.

Visit cincinnatiparks foundation.org to learn more, volunteer or make a donation.

SW OHIO PARENT'S

fun & SUN

WACKY calendar 03.2021

MON

TUES

WEDS

1 WORLD COMPLIMENT DAY

7

8

THURS

2 DR. SEUSS DAY

3 WORLD WILDLIFE DAY

9

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

14 DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS

21

15

22

11

FROZEN FOOD DAY

GIRL SCOUT DAY

WORLD PLUMBING DAY

17

PANDA DAY

23

EARMUFFS DAY

18 AWKWARD MOMENTS DAY

24

13

12

BARBIE DAY

16

6

5 CHEESE DOODLE DAY

10

ST. PATRICK’S DAY WORLD SPEECH DAY

SAT

4 TOY SOLDIER DAY

DAY OF AWESOMENESS BE HEARD DAY

FRI

25

19 POULTRY DAY

20 FIRST DAY OF SPRING

27

26

PUPPY DAY SLYTHERIN PRIDE DAY

GOOF OFF DAY

COVERED RAISINS DAY

PURPLE DAY WAFFLE DAY

WORLD THEATER DAY

CHOCOLATE

28 NEIGHBOR DAY

SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com

29 WORLD PIANO DAY

30 PENCIL DAY

31 EIFFEL TOWER DAY

March 2021 I ohParent.com

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