Southwest Ohio Parent | March 2024

MARCH

2024

20+ EASTER EVENTS

AROUND TOWN

+

TIPS FOR SPRUCING UP YOUR SPACE

T H E # 1 LO C A L R E S OU R C E FO R PA R E N TS

FREE

SUMMER CAMPS

GALORE

&

SPRING BREAK IDEAS

INSIDE

FIND YOUR

FIND THE BEST FIT FOR YOUR FAMILY

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contents features Preschool Puzzle: Find 14 The the Perfect Fit

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Create a schedule that keeps your child engaged and your family connected.

Up for Spring 30 Sprucing Expert tips for your spring cleaning list.

departments In Every Issue 06 Letter from the Editor

Parenting

08 Local Kids

12 The Power of Presence

10 News + Notes

22 There's a Camp for That

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Around Town 09 Hidden Gems: Board and Brush Creative Studio

Resources & Calendars 18 Spring Break Guide

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Little Foodies: Carillon Brewing

24 Camps + Summer Program Guide

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2024 Spring Consignment and Resale Guide

27 School + Education Guide

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Local Spotlight: New Life Furniture Bank

33 Things to Do in March 39 Fun & Wacky Calendar

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PUBLISHER

Mary Wynne Cox, mary@ohparent.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER + ADVERTISING

Katie Clark, katie@ohparent.com EDITOR

Nicole Sipe, nicolesipe@ohparent.com PRODUCTION MANAGER

Becca Reynolds, becca@ohparent.com DIGITAL PUBLISHER

Wendy Hasser, wendy@ohparent.com DIGITAL EDITOR

Mary Mueller, mmueller@ohparent.com

LET TER FROM THE EDITOR

Boy Mom W O R D S B Y NICOLE SIPE

attended an event recently where I was seated with three other women.

All of us were strangers, but it turned out that we all had one thing in common: We were all moms. As we chatted and got to know each other, the conversation veered toward our children. I told everyone I had two sons.

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One of the women looked at me directly and said: “You seem like a boy mom.”

She was a boy mom herself, and she said it with a smile and a twinkle in her eye. Her words stuck with me, and have made me think. What is a boy mom?

My friend Google pointed me to a great essay in The Week by Annabel Monaghan that discusses just these things. In her essay, titled “What It's Like to Be a Mother of Only Boys,” Monaghan writes: “Mothers of boys are strangely laid back about property damage. In fact, property damage is to boy moms what frequent costume changes are to girl moms. A golf club through the drywall, a child through the drywall, and a basketball game ending triumphantly with glass showering down from the ceiling lights. That's just what being a boy mom is.”

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It’s true. You should see the hole in the drywall of my youngest son’s room.

But property damage is just a small slice of being a boy mom. For me, being a boy mom is a relief. My boys don’t care about the latest fashion trends, at least not now, and so clothes shopping is a breeze. Being a boy mom is also an ego boost. My boys love food, so whatever I make for dinner or dessert is “the best thing you’ve ever made, mom.” Being a boy mom is also a joy. My boys give the best sideways hugs, ever.

ADMINISTRATION

Emily Kirchmann, emily@ohparent.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Pam Freeman, Allison Graber, Jennifer Thompson BILLING

billing@ohparent.com CALENDAR OF EVENTS

calendar@ohparent.com

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER

GC Photography

March 4 is National Son’s Day, a day to celebrate the ones who made us boy moms (and dads).

We’re part of a special club — one that I’ll be forever grateful to be included in.

May the love in our hearts for our boys be bigger than the holes in our walls!

Southwest Ohio Parent is published monthly. Copyright 2024 by Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary or services herein.

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local kids WE LOVE SEEING YOUR PHOTOS OF LOCAL KIDS LIVING THEIR BEST LIVES AROUND TOWN! HERE ARE SOME OF OUR FAVORITE SUBMISSIONS WE RECEIVED THIS MONTH. 2

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4 1. Reese (4), Amelia (7), Calvin (3), Finley (6) and Jack (4) at Bill Yeck Park 2. Reed (8) at White Oak Gardens Little Sprouts Class 3. Daxon (5) and Navy (3) at The Original Pancake House

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4. Kallum (7) at Ohio Caverns 5. Ava (4) sledding at a park 6. Jack (5) at EnterTRAINment Junction 7. Zora (4 mos) at home 8. Jade (1) at home

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Want to see your cute kids on this page?

Email your photo (with child’s first name, age and location/activity) to editor@ohparent.com, and your photos might appear in our April issue!

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HIDDEN GEMS

Board & Brush Creative Studio W O R D S B Y SAMANTHA KUPIAINEN

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ids and parents alike often enjoy a DIY project, but sometimes it’s more fun to make things together. Board and Brush Creative Studio combines the joy of creation with the joy of friendship and making memories.

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Options Abound There’s something for everyone on the menu of offerings at Board and Brush. That goes for both the workshops and the projects.

Workshops include girl’s night out wine and paint parties, teen and kids’ workshops, virtual, corporate, and community events plus events where Board and Brush comes to you. If you’d rather relax and DIY at home, Board and Brush also offers at-home kits.

The easy part may be choosing what type of workshop to take.

The hard part is choosing what project to make. There are so many offerings! Board and Brush says that they have projects for every style and every need. They tout, “We are your place to build on-trend, farmhouse-classic, inspirational pieces of décor for your home, office or cottage.”

Projects usually start with distressed wood (hence the name) and can be anything from signs to trays and planters. Projects can also go beyond wood to doormats, porch planters, canvas pillows, totes, tea towels, winter wreaths, terrariums and personalized glassware. A visit to their website can help potential customers browse the extensive selection.

Local Board & Brush Locations Cincinnati: 9871 Montgomery Rd.

boardandbrush.com/ cincinnati Tipp City: 816 W. Main St.

boardandbrush.com/ tippcity

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news + notes OUR MONTHLY ROUNDUP OF NEWS YOU CAN USE

Peter Pan

the Hit Broadway Musical

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That’s the percentage of American parents who plan to decorate Easter eggs with their children.

Prepare for a high-flying adventure with Broadway in Cincinnati! Peter Pan is being brought back to life in a new adaptation at Aronoff Center on March 12-24. Join Peter Pan and his mischievous sidekick, Tinker Bell, as they visit the bedroom of the Darling children late one night.

With a sprinkle of fairy dust and a few happy thoughts, the children are taken on a magical journey they will never forget. This extraordinary musical full of excitement and adventure features iconic and timeless songs including “I’m Flying,” “I Gotta Crow,” “I Won’t Grow Up” and “Neverland.”

For tickets, visit cincinnati.broadway.com/shows/peter-pan.

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition

at COSI

Experience the wonder and tragedy of the world's most famous ocean-liner at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, the newest exhibit at COSI. With more than 200 authentic artifacts recovered from the wreck site of Titanic on display with full-scale room recreations, this exhibit is an educational and intriguing experience for all ages.

Guests receive a replica boarding pass upon arrival and assume the role of a passenger, while following a chronological journey through the passenger’s life on Titanic. Visitors can walk the halls, peer into cabins, and meet the passengers and crew throughout the voyage.

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition opens at COSI on March 9 and runs through September 2, 2024.

General admission to COSI is required in addition to a ticket to see the exhibit. Ticket bundles are available at cosi.org.

Did You Know?

A study at the University of Sussex found that reading for six minutes a day reduces stress by up to 68%. Relax with a good book, as March is National Reading Month!

Source: weareteachers.com

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PARENTING

The Power of Presence Why being there for your kids matters most.

W O R D S B Y D AY T O N C H I L D R E N ' S H O S P I TA L

eing truly present with your kids is more than sitting next to them while they’re watching TV and you’re on your phone.

Being truly present means that you are both there physically and emotionally.

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We know that caregivers have more than just a full plate — they have a full buffet of responsibilities to worry about. Between managing the family calendar, juggling work responsibilities, planning and making meals, and keeping the house clean, it can be hard to prioritize your family’s mental wellness. With all of life’s tasks, it can be hard to stop and take time to be truly present in our children’s lives, but it’s incredibly important to their development.

“The dirty dishes will always be there, but we have such a small window of time to make an impact on our kids,” shares Emily Weitz, On Our Sleeves’ children’s mental health expert. “When we are truly present with our kids, we have a chance to appreciate their silliness, thoughtfulness and unique personality. We gain a new perspective and appreciation for the simple things when seeing the world through a child’s eyes.”

If you're wondering where to start with being truly present with the kids that you care about, here are five simple steps you can take today.

1. Limit distractions. With

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• Make silly faces in the mirror while brushing teeth!

5. Make time for your own self-care. It’s likely you’ve heard the phrase: “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” When your own needs aren’t met, then it can lead to being grumpy, hungry and unable to enjoy time with our kids. Here are some ideas for simple self-care:

• Put electronics that might distract you in a separate room while you do an activity with your child.

• If possible, make a rule for yourself to not check work emails at home outside of work hours.

• If someone calls when you are doing an activity with your child, ask if you can call them back later or better yet, don’t answer the phone!

2. Create time for kids to open up. When we aren’t rushing, we

can allow a space for natural conversation to blossom. If time is limited, these ideas don’t have to last for hours or be every week.

Here are a few simple ideas to try: • Start bedtime 5 minutes earlier than usual to allow for a slower-pace and more downtime between activities.

• After book or bath time, spend a few extra minutes before bed lying next to your kids or sitting next to them on the couch to create space for them to open up to you.

Sponsored content brought to you by

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• Play dress up • Have a family play

so many thoughts racing around in our heads and many distractions competing for our attention, it is important to be intentional in setting these distractions aside so we can give our kids our full attention.

Here are some ideas to try:

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• Take a weekly bubble bath

3. Take control of your calendar, don’t let your calendar take control of you. Running from activity-to-activity causes stress and can put a strain on our relationships. If we are always worried about getting to the next thing, we won’t have the capacity to focus on the moment. Being present means slowing down and being in the moment. Here are some ways you can do that: • Be intentional about protecting downtime for your family. Resist the urge to fill quiet time with more events or activities.

• Use time in the car to play I Spy, or the License Plate game. This can draw attention to your surroundings.

4. Laugh and enjoy the moment. Laughter decreases

our stress and helps us bond with our kids. Tap into your inner child and be silly with them.

• Spend 15 minutes reading a book you enjoy • Get in some exercise Finally, at times when you feel like there are so many responsibilities screaming for your attention, take a moment to take a deep breath and remind yourself that your most important job right now is being there for your kids.

Find More On Our Sleeves Resources Learning how to be present is a journey, not a destination.

On Our Sleeves is leading the movement for children’s mental health, to build a world where mental health is part of the upbringing of every child. Our mission is to give expert-created resources to all U.S. communities so everyone can understand and promote mental health for children. Visit childrensdayton. org/onoursleeves to access new content monthly to help you on this journey with the children in your life.

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WORDS BY

NICOLE SIPE

FIND THE PERFECT FIT Create a schedule that keeps your child engaged and your family connected.

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reschool open houses are in full swing, so the time to start looking for a school for your little one is now. Indianapolis has a wide range of quality preschool options — so many, that it can be a little difficult to know where to start! Here are some important things to consider as you research schools and make the rounds visiting the classrooms.

What to Look for in a Preschool When it comes to finding a quality preschool, there are a few key things you'll want to keep in mind.

Qualified and Caring Teachers: Look for teachers who are trained in early childhood education, and who genuinely care about the well-being and development of your child. Ask the teachers about their qualifications and experience, and observe how they interact with the children to get a sense of their teaching style.

Look for Red Flags As you tour the classroom, if you notice that the students are not engaged, the learning space is cluttered or sterile, or there is a high turn-over rate with staff, that should set off some warning bells. Ideally, you want to see uncluttered walls, organized materials, and a calm, quiet setting that allows children to focus and be engaged. Also look out for a dirty facility, teachers on devices, teachers not interacting with the children or children left unattended.

On the flip side, if a school has teachers who have been there for years, that is a great sign. Other signs of a good preschool include a classroom space where children have access to a variety of activities for different learning styles, such as building blocks, an art center, dramatic play, fine-motor activities, interactive games and a library. Ideally, you want to see a space where children have the opportunity to work independently, in small groups and large groups, as well as one-on-one time with the teacher.

Age-appropriate Curriculum: A quality preschool should have a curriculum that is tailored to meet the developmental needs of young children. Look for a blend of structured activities, playbased learning, and lots of opportunities for social interaction.

A well-rounded curriculum will include activities that help grow a child’s cognitive, physical and social-emotional development.

Safe and Stimulating Environment: Pay attention to the physical environment of the preschool. Bright, clean, welcoming and child-proofed facilities are what you’re looking for, equipped with child-sized furniture and developmentally appropriate materials. Outdoor play spaces should be secure and offer opportunities for exploration and gross motor skill development.

Good Communication: Look for open lines of communication, regular updates on your child's progress, and opportunities for parent-teacher conferences. A school that values your input and actively involves parents in their child's learning journey creates a sense of community and support.

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Why Touring is Important Although doing online research and getting word-of-mouth referrals are great ways to learn about a preschool, nothing compares to taking the time to tour a preschool. Touring a preschool during the school day gives you a glimpse into the life of the school and the students. You can actually see students interacting with their teachers, see the learning environment being used, and learn about the daily routines of the students. It is also a perfect time to ask questions specific to the needs of your family.

Finding the right preschool for your child is a personal decision. Take the time to visit multiple preschools, talk to other parents, and trust your instincts. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a quality preschool that will provide a strong foundation for your child's future education and growth.

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LITTLE FOODIES

Carillon Brewing W O R D S B Y PA M F R E E M A N

ducation and a brewery don’t usually go hand-inhand. But at Carillon Brewing Company, parents can sneak in a history lesson — a glimpse into the 1850s-era Dayton — while enjoying a cold one. Carillon Brewing is touted as the “only U.S. brewery replicating the historic brewing process.”

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Never heard of it? Carillon Brewing is located in Dayton’s innovative Carillon Park, a 65acre open-air history museum.

There is no admission fee to enter Carillon Brewing and parking is free at Carillon Park.

Visiting History

From the outside, Carillon Brewing sets the tone with gas copper lamps and white oak doors sash-sawn with handforged hinges and handles.

Inside, history comes to life at the brick furnace where costumed interpreters draw water from a handmade copper kettle before beginning the process of mashing and lautering.

city directories, canal records and farmers’ reports — and the science of brewing at this time.

Food and Drink

German, Irish and English fare is on the menu, reflecting the mix of cultures of the time.

Shareables such as bier cheese fries, sauerkraut balls and German soft pretzels top the menu. A kid's menu appeals to little foodies with a frankfurter, grilled cheese and burger. Adult dishes include wurst, Reuben and burgers with time periodappropriate brews like porter, coriander ale, Berliner Weiss, Roggenbier, squash ale and more.

1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton

daytonhistory.org

There is an oak barrel educational display outlining the history — sourced from

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spring break guide

2024 SW OHIO PARENT'S

L O CA L AT T R AC T I O N S

Ark Encounter

Cincinnati Museum Center

Contemporary Arts Center

Ark Encounter features a full-size Noah’s Ark, built according to the dimensions given in the Bible. Spanning 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet high, this modern engineering marvel amazes visitors young and old. Ark Encounter is situated in beautiful Grant County in Williamstown, Kentucky, halfway between Cincinnati and Lexington and right off I-75.

Start your summer of adventure at Cincinnati Museum Center, a multi-museum complex housed in National Historic Landmark Union Terminal. Home to the Cincinnati History Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science, the Children's Museum and an OMNIMAX Theater, you can explore a world of dinosaurs, walk the cobblestone streets of 1850s Cincinnati and climb through the treetops or splash in Waterworks all in one trip.

The Contemporary Arts Center brings art and the creative process to all people through exhibitions, performances, and experiences. The CAC’s Creativity Center features art installations by local artist that encourage guests to engage with the work by pressing buttons, mixing beats, drawing characters, building sculptures, and more! FREE admission.

(855) 284-3275 | ArkEncounter.com 1 Ark Encounter Drive, Williamstown, KY 41097

(513) 287-7000 | cincymuseum.org 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45203

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(513) 345-8400 | cincycac.org 44 E. 6th Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202

L O CA L AT T R AC T I O N S

Five Rivers MetroParks

Midpointe Library System

Olentangy Caverns

Five Rivers MetroParks offers 18 clean, safe parks where you and your children can explore and connect with nature -- all for free. Activities include hiking, fishing, birdwatching, cycling and much more. A variety of programs, many of them free, are available for children. Families will especially enjoy MetroParks' nature play areas, available at Cox Arboretum, Sugarcreek, Englewood, Possum Creek, Wegerzyn Gardens, and Hills & Dales MetroParks.

Midpointe Library System offers free family fun for everyone! Visit locations in Middletown, West Chester, Liberty Township, Monroe and Trenton to enjoy storytimes, craft programs and more for all ages and stages.

Explore a kid-friendly cave. Mine for gems. Hunt for treasure in the maze. Play on our REAL fire truck. Enjoy a round of mini-golf. And visit Columbus’s largest petting zoo. Open daily 9:30am – 5pm March 23 - October 31. Located just 5 miles from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

MidPointeLibrary.org Multiple locations

(740) 548-7917 | olentangycaverns.com 1779 Home Road, Delaware, OH 43015

(937) 275-7275 | metroparks.org Multiple Locations

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at COSI

Fill your family's spring break with art & nature at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park! Explore over 300 acres of park grounds by walking or driving, or get the ultimate experience by renting an Art Cart.

Over 70 larger than life sculptures fill the gardens and fields of Pyramid Hill, as well as two art museums. Perfect for multigenerational families with kids, parents, and grandparents - leashed dogs are welcome!

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition immerses you in the wonder and tragedy of the world's most famous ocean liner. With over 200 authentic artifacts recovered from the wreck and full-scale room recreations, this highly attended exhibition provides an educational and intriguing experience into the fateful maiden voyage of RMS Titanic.

At COSI March 9-September 2.

(513) 868-8336 | pyramidhill.org 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton, OH 45013

(614) 228-2674 | cosi.org

Wonderland Playground Wonderland Playground was built for fun! Our space was designed for ages 1-8 with several play areas. We provide a fun, safe and clean environment for active play. Make your Spring Break reservations today! *Walk ins cannot be accepted if a session is sold out.

(513) 440-6770 | wonderlandplayground.com 8255 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45255

333 W Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215

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PARENTING

There’s a Camp for That There’s a camp out there for every child’s interest!

W O R D S B Y NICOLE SIPE

Great for kids who… are ready for more independence.

Overnight camps offer children a chance to be away from parents, make new friends, and develop life skills such as problem-solving, teamwork and self-reliance. Overnight camps are a great way for kids to step out of their comfort zones and build confidence in a supportive and supervised environment.

SPORTS CAMPS

hese days, there are more summer camp choices than ever. In fact, there are so many choices that it can be overwhelming to figure out what type of camp will work for your child. With summer just around the corner, it's time to start thinking about finding the perfect camp for your child. Whether they're interested in sports, arts and crafts, nature, or coding, there's a camp out there that will spark their curiosity and create lifelong memories.

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DAY CAMPS What they are: Day camps usually offer a variety of activities, such as crafts, sports, swimming and time for free play. These types of camps are usually anywhere from four six hours per day.

You’ll find them offered at places like YMCAs, community

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centers, parks departments, museums and more.

Great for kids who… love doing different things all day.

Kids will typically participate in group activities, play sports, and enjoy time outdoors. Day camps are a nice fit for children who like to try different things.

OVERNIGHT CAMPS What they are: Overnight camps, sometimes called sleepaway camps, are a summer experience where kids spend the night away from home in a camp setting. These camps are usually located in natural environments, and kids participate in a wide range of activities such as hiking, swimming, canoeing, arts and crafts, team sports and more.

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What they are: Sports camps usually focus on one sport, like baseball, soccer, tennis or gymnastics. These types of camps are great for kids who have a passion for sports, want to build on their existing skills, or want to explore a new sport in a less competitive setting.

Great for kids who… love a particular sport and want to explore it even more. Sports camps are also great for active kids who might want to try out a sport they’ve never experienced, such as lacrosse or rugby.

STEM CAMPS What they are: These educational camps focus on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

STEM camps provide an immersive and hands-on learning experience, allowing kids to explore and engage with various disciplines in a fun and interactive way.

Great for kids who… are curious, always asking questions and tinkering. Depending on the focus of the camp, kids may have the opportunity to work on robotics, learn about coding and programming, conduct scientific experiments, and engage in engineering challenges.

ART CAMPS What they are: These types of camps can include performance art (theater), music, drawing and painting, photography or any other type of subject that gets a kid’s creativity flowing.

Great for kids who… prefer to be indoors and immerse themselves in their creativity. Art camps are designed to inspire and nurture the artistic talents of kids, and they are a great opportunity for young artists to explore different art forms, learn new techniques, and gain hands-on experience over the summer.

This is just a small sample of the kind of summer camps that are available for kids.

For even more ideas, visit ohparent.com/campfair/ to find the perfect summer camp for your child.

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CAMPS + SUMMER PROGRAM GUIDE Answers in Genesis - Explore Camp Explore Day Camps present a variety of scientific topics from a biblical worldview and is perfect for any science enthusiast. Creation Museum: 2800 Bullittsburg Church Rd., Petersburg, KY 41080, Contact Registration via creationmuseum.org/forms/ contact-explore, (888) 582-4253 ext. 229, creationmuseum.org/education Dates: Science Camp – 6/24-28, 2024 and 7/8-12, 2024; Forensic Camp – 7/15-19, 2024 / Hours 9:30-3pm lunch provided / Ages 11-18

Best Point Education & Behavioral Health Camp-ICan Camp-I-Can provides high-quality summer programming for children 4-12 years of age. As a “summer-bridging program” Camp-I-can provides project-based learning activities that promote children’s language, math and science skills. In addition, our group learning model helps children develop the skills necessary to manage their feelings and build positive relationships. 4550 Red Bank Expressway, Cincinnati, Ohio 45227, Contact: Carolyn Brinkmann, cbrinkmann@costars.org, (513) 527-7321, bestpoint.org Type of Camp: Academic, Adventure/ Tripping, Arts, STEM / Special Needs Offered Dates: May 29th – August 1st (Madisonville) and May 28th – August 9th (Westwood) / Hours: 7:30 am – 5:30 pm / Ages: ages 4-12. *Four-year-olds must be scheduled to attend kindergarten in the upcoming school year.

Bethany School Summer Camps Bethany School offers various fun and engaging summer camps for students K-8th grade including the arts, basketball, volleyball, STEAM, faith, and more. To register your child and learn more, please visit bethanyschool.org. 370 Oak Road, Glendale, OH 45246, Contact: Sharon Brooks, brooks@bethanyschool.org, (513) 771-7462, bethanyschool.org Dates: June, July and August 2024

Camp Art Academy: ArtistsIn-Training Camp Art Academy at the AAC is an esteemed six-week educational experience for rising first through sixth graders. Each week has a unique theme and students can attend one week, all six, or any number in between. At the end of each week, students celebrate their artwork with a gallery opening for friends and family! Camp will encourage your child’s self-discovery, teamwork, and expression through an

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award-winning arts education. 1212

Jackson St., Cincinnati, OH 45202, (513) 562-8762, artacademy.edu/office-ofengagement/community-education/ camp-art-academy/ Dates: June 3rd-July 26th, 2024 with a two-week break in between. Each week features a different theme—check our website for more details. / Age: 5- to 12-year-olds.

Camp at the J At Camp at the J, kids can experience the best of summer. From swimming and archery to arts & crafts, camp values and color wars, and much more, kids will create memories and form friendships to last a lifetime. Give your child a summer to remember at Camp at the J! Camp at the J was a 2022 Best of Parenting poll finalist. 8485 Ridge Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45236, Contact: Lauren Smyjunas, (513) 722-7245, daycamp@ mayersonjcc.org, MayersonJCC.org/Camp Dates: June 10 - August 9 / Hours: 9:30am - 3:30pm *Extended Care Available / Grades: K - 10

Camp-A-Palooza at Kids First Sports Center CAMP-A-PALOOZA is Greater Cincinnati’s most talked about summer camp experience! Why? Four words: Kids First Sports Center... 108,000 square feet of kids sports heaven! Every day is a themed, non–stop, in and outdoor adventure. From morning drop–off to evening pick–up, you’ll experience crafts, talent shows, water slides, sports instruction, science experiments, agricultural projects and more! 7900 East Kemper Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Julie Halusek, campinfo@ kidsfirstsports.com, (513) 489-7575, kidsfirstsports.com Dates: May 28-August 16, 2024 / Hours: Times: 7am-6pm / Ages: 5-15 years of age / Activities: Swimming, Gymnastics, dance, soccer, tumbling, trampoline, Ninja, arts and crafts, gardening.

Camp Chabad Embark on an unforgettable journey at Camp Chabad – Cincinnati's premier Jewish Day Camp!

Accredited by the ACA, nestled in Keonig Park, we offer a thrilling experience for kids ages 5-13. With diverse activities, Jewish identity, exceptional staff, prime location, and exciting field trips, this summer promises endless adventure and memories to last a lifetime. 520 W. Columbus Ave., Reading, OH 45215, Contact: Menachem Majeski, info@campchabad.org, (513) 731-5111, campchabad.org Dates: June 24th to August 2nd, 2024 / Hours: 9:30 am - 3:30 pm / Ages: 5-13, co-ed Type of Camp: Adventure/Tripping, Arts, Faith-Based, Sports, Traditional

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Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park's Summer Theatre Camp and Performance Academy Summer Camps options include one-week theatre camps that focus on fun and theatre skills, one-week performance showcases and intensives, and two-week performance academies that produce a play or musical from start to finish.

Camps are held at the Playhouse in Mt. Adams and locations in Mason and near Erlanger, Ky. Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park: 962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati, OH 45202, (513) 421-3888, summercamp@ cincyplay.com, cincyplay.com Dates: June 2 – August 2, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (before and after care available) / Ages: Rising first – 12th graders

Cincinnati Reds Camp Cincinnati Reds Camps are back for their 13th season in 2024 with 16 weeklong camps. These camps run M-F, from 9-3pm for players aged 6-14.

Campers will receive 30hrs of instruction, a full Reds uniform, VIP trip to Great American Ball Park, and a Q&A with a current Reds player. Locations vary, (855) 846-7337, Reds.com/camps Dates: May 27-August 2, 2024

Dayton Ballet School Dayton Ballet School summer program and camps are for the young dancer who is ready to enhance and elevate their skills in a fun and nurturing environment. Available options are our Summer Intensive for advanced and intermediate dancers, Themed-Ballet camps, and classes for dancers of all ages and abilities. Keep moving and connect to dance all summer long! 140 North Main St 4th Floor, Dayton, OH 45402, Contact: Megan Forney, mforney@ daytonperformingarts.org, (937) 535-5451, daytonballetschool.org Type of Camp: Day, Summer Classes, Arts Dates: June 3-29 / Ages: 3 years-18 years

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 6-10 year olds. ACA accredited. At Falcon, 'Good Things Happen by Design'. 4251 Delta Rd SW, Carrollton, OH 44615, Contact: Dave Devey, (330) 627-4269, info@falconcamp.com, falconcamp.com/ Type of Camp: Overnight Camp, Gender of

Campers: boys and girls - separate daily activities with planned coed events.

Dates: June 16 -August 10, 2024 in 1,2,4,6 or 8 week sessions / Ages: 6-16

Girl Scouts of Western Ohio Camps Day AND overnight camps at three locations, plus travel camps for girls in grades 8-11. Not a member? Not a problem—Girl Scout camp is open to all girls! Come experience the magic of camp—the joy of making new friends, bravely trying new adventures, and discovering the amazing wonders of nature. Multiple locations, Phone: (888) 350-5090, customercare@gswo.org, camp. gswo.org/summer Type of Camp: Day AND Overnight Camp, Dates: Weekly, June 9 - August 2, 2024 / Hours: Varies / Ages: Girls currently in grades K-11 / Gender of Campers: Girl

Hairston School of Dance Camps Students will experience a fun creative introduction to dance while making crafts, costumes, props and headpieces that will inspire creativity beyond the studio. Each week will have a different theme. June 3-7th: Bluey Dance Camp, July 29-August 2nd: Mermaids and Pirates Dance Camp.

4329 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45227 Contact: Sarah Hairston Berkley, (513) 271-0095, hairstonschoolofdance@gmail. com, hairstonschoolofdance.com Dates: June 3-7th and July 1-5th, 2024, Hours: 9:30am-12:30pm, Ages 3-8

Heritage Village Museum Summer Camps Heritage Village Museum is a unique setting for a 19th century experience. Campers will discover the past through a variety of hands-on activities. Campers can create their own museum, solve history’s mysteries, immerse themselves in pioneer life, explore 19th century professions, or try their hand at espionage! Heritage Village Museum

(inside Sharon Woods Park): 11500 Lebanon Road, Sharonville, OH 45241, Contact: Lauren Woods, Lwoods@heritagevillagecincinnati. org, (513) 563-9484, heritagevillagecincinnati.org Dates: Museum Makers: Jun. 10-14, 2024 / History’s Mysteries: Jun. 17-21, 2024 / Little Village in the Big Woods: Jun. 24-28, 2024 / Past Professions: Jul. 8-12, 2024 / Spy Camp: Jul. 15-19, 2024 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.

Ages: All camps are for children ages 6-14.

Children must have completed kindergarten.

*Sponsored Listings

The Lost Art Summer Etiquette and Leadership Enrichment Camp Summer camps are a great way to have fun, make friends, and learn new things!

TLA offers unique activities for kids to build self-confidence, learn teamwork, create a business, and understand etiquette. TLA also has fun educational games like Etiquette Jeopardy, BINGO, and Blindfold leadership activities. The best part? TLA is affordable and accessible to everyone! Join us this summer! Wingate by Wyndham Cincinnati-Blue Ash: 4320 Glendale-Milford Rd., Blue Ash, OH 45242, Contact: John Scott, Founder, (888) 354-4639, info@ thelostart.net, thelostart.net Dates: June 17 - 21, 2024

Mathnasium At Mathnasium we work with students one on one to make sure that they have a deep understanding of math, while making it fun! Over the summer is a good time to catch up, keep up, or even get ahead. We make sure that the work we complete with your student is appropriate to their understanding level, not just their grade level. Let's make this a Mathnasium summer and kick learning into high gear! Anderson: 7625 Beechmont Avenue, (513) 231-6284 / Blue Ash: 9525 Kenwood Road, (513) 984-1212 / Hyde Park: 3974 Red Bank Road, (513) 832-8773 / Loveland: 700 Loveland Madeira Road, (513) 781-3002 / Mason: 8217 Arbor Square Drive, (513) 683-9800 / West Chester: 7602 Cox Lane / (513) 296-2000, mathnasium.com Dates: June 1 through August 3, 2024 / Type: Academic, STEM, Summer Classes

Miami University Regionals' STEAM Studio Welcome to the STEAM Studio—where 2nd through 10th graders explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math in real life while having fun, making friends, and creating memories at Miami University Regionals' campuses. We seek to build tomorrow's leaders in STEAM. Join us for a great summer! 4200 N. University

Blvd Middletown, OH 45042, 1601 University Blvd. Hamilton, OH 45011, Contact: Theresa Young, steamstudio@ MiamiOH.edu, (513) 217-4003, Miamioh. edu/regionals/STEAMStudio Camp Dates: June 20th-July 26th, 2024 / Hours: 9 am-4 pm Monday-Friday / Grades: 2nd-10th

MidPointe Library Summer Reading Program MidPointe Library System is bringing you a season of fun with its annual Summer Reading Program. Families can enjoy

activities together, exploring new books or finding fun around the house and in your community. Adventure begins at your library! Available at all MidPointe Library System locations (West Chester, Middletown, Liberty Township, Monroe & Trenton), Contact person: Cari Hillman, Phone: (513) 424-1251, MidPointeLibrary.org Dates: June 1 – July 31, 2024 / Ages: All ages

School of Rock Mason ROCK 101 CAMPS are for kids 7-14 who are beginners. Campers are introduced to the instruments we teach (guitar, bass, drums, keys, and vocals) and then work to put on a mini-concert.

PERFORMANCE CAMPS are for musicians 11-18 capable of playing through a song. Campers rehearse throughout the week to put on a rock concert at the end of camp. 755 Reading Road #1, Mason, Ohio 45040, Contact: Stephen Kuffner, (513) 770-1257, mason@schoolofrock.com, schoolofrock. com/locations/mason Dates: Week long camp sessions throughout the summer / Hours: 10am-3pm; extended hours available / Ages: 7-18

Settler Survival Camp at Carillon Park Held in late July, Settler Survival Camp at Carillon Historical Park is five days of early settlement fun. The Miami Valley comes to life from an early settler’s perspective during this exciting camp.

Learn about early travel methods, hearth-cooking, woodworking, textiles, gardening, candle-dipping, and more. 1000 Carillon Boulevard, Dayton, OH 45409, Contact: Education Department: education1@daytonhistory. org, (937) 293-2841, daytonhistory.org/ events/historical-experiences/settlersurvival-camp/ Dates: July 8-12, July 15-19, July 22-26, 2024 / Hours: 9:00 am–4:00 pm Daily / Ages: 8-12

Snapology of West Chester Snapology's mission is to make STEAM learning fun! In our programs children are introduced to STEAM concepts through educational play. They're having so much fun they do not even realize how much they're learning!

Additionally, Snapology programs are curated to build confidence, promote creativity, teamwork and social skills; and to develop problem solving and iterative learning skills. Various Locations, westchestertwp@snapology. com, (513) 988-7363, bit.ly/snapcamps Dates: All weeks in June and July, some weeks in August / Hours: AM Camps, 9 am to 12 pm & PM Camps, 1 pm to 4 pm (8 am early drop off, 5 pm late pick up) / Ages: 4 to 14

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CAMPS + SUMMER PROGRAM GUIDE Summer Art Camp Get creative with the Taft Museum of Art! Whether your child is thinking about becoming an artist or just likes to have fun making art, our small camp classes and hands-on activities with experienced teachers will make this a summer of fun. Our week-long camps will have campers painting, sculpting, and drawing, and will culminate in an invitation to family and friends to view campers’ work. 316 Pike Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, education@ taftmuseum.org, taftmuseum.org/ families-children/summer-camp Dates: May 28 - June 12 / Hours: 9 am–4 pm / Ages: Entering grades 1–3, 4–6, and 7–12

Summer Earth Adventures at Aullwood Audubon Join us this summer and find your flock at Aullwood Audubon’s Summer Earth Adventures week-long nature camps!

Aullwood's summer camps feature a variety of outdoor explorations, exciting nature themes and tons of outdoor fun at both our trails and farm. 1000 Aullwood Road, Dayton, OH 45414, (937) 890-7360, education@aullwood. org, https://aullwood.audubon.org/sea Dates: June 10 - August 9, 2024 / Hours: Full and Half Day Options / Ages: K-6th grade

Summit Summer The Summit Country Day School welcomes students from the tri-state area to enjoy summer on our Hyde Park campus. With programs for children ages 18 months - Grade 12, parents can take comfort in knowing that their 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. Online Catalog will be available on Thursday, January 25th.

Registration opens: February 1st. 2161

Grandin Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45230, Contact: Shayleigh Holbrook, Auxiliary Services Manager, holbrook_s@summitcds.org, (513) 871-4700 Ext: x369, summitcds.org/ programs/summit-summer Dates: June 3rd - August 2nd, 2024

Theatre Summer Camp Whether it's your first time under the spotlight or you're already a budding thespian, Theatre Summer Camp with Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is the ideal playground for artistic growth, forging friendships, and pure fun. We offer dynamic in-person programs for students in grades 1-12, tailored for those seeking an exciting and rewarding theatrical adventure this

summer. Dive into a world of creativity and discover more about our programs online. Cincinnati Shakespeare Company at The Otto M. Budig Theater, 1195 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Phone: 513-381-2273, cincyshakes.com/ summercamp Dates: June and July 2024 / Grades: 1-12 / Cost: $295/week, multiple week discount available

USA Ninja Challenge Cincinnati Summer Camp The ninja program is designed to meet the requirements of a full physical fitness program for today’s youth. We incorporate ninja obstacles including rings, balance beams, slack lines, cargo nets, ropes, a traverse rock wall, devil steps, horizontal peg boards, our popular warped wall and more! The desired result of this program is to improve children’s strength, flexibility, and athleticism while building self esteem for our ninjas! 4727 Red Bank Rd Cincinnati, OH 45227, Contact: Steve Sharp, (513) 739-5528, Email: redbank@usa ninjachallenge.com, ninjacincinnati.com Dates: June 3rd-August 2nd, 2024 / Hours: Monday through Friday 9:00am -12:00pm / Ages: 5-13

X-treme HorsePower Day Camp at Heavenward Farm Girls and boys take care of and ride their special Horse, make friends and enjoy the great outdoors! Riding Instruction, Horse care. Trail Rides, Crafts, Boating, Fishing, Biblical life lessons,and group Games are all packed into this fun and meaningful camp experience. Limited enrollment, so REGISTER online NOW at heavenwardfarm.org. 7084 Ludlum Rd., Morrow, OH 45152, Contact: Carole Bower, Exec. Director, Email: admin@ heavenwardfarm.org, Phone: (513) 899-4347

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Dates: Week 1: June 10-14, Week 2: July 29-August 2 / Hours: 9:00am-2:30pm / Ages: 8-14 / Special Needs: CP (Mild), Visually or Hearing-impaired, ADHD/ Anxiety/Mood Dysregulation, Highfunctioning ASD

YMCA of Greater Cincinnati Summer Day Camps Day Camp registration opens March 1. Campers have the opportunity to explore nature, find hidden talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting friendships. Weekly themes create energy and excitement whether you camper is with us for one week or the full summer! 10 locations in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, (513) 362-YMCA, myY.org/day-camp Dates: Camps run Memorial Day through Early August . Ages: 5-12 / Cost: Varies by camp. Visit MyY.org/day-camp for prices.

YMCA of Greater Dayton Camps Join the YMCA of Greater Dayton from May-August 2024 (session dates vary by location) for a fun-filled summer for your child!

Whether you choose one week or all summer, YMCA Day Camp fits your schedule and provides fun and enriching activities for your child. OUR PROMISE TO PARENTS - Your kids will be safe, make new friends, learn new skills and most of all, have fun!

Available at 10 Dayton area locations, Contact: Valerie Holland, ymcachildcare@ daytonymca.org, (937) 223-5201, daytonymca.org/programs/child-careprograms/summer-day-camp Dates: May-August 2024

Interested in being part of next month's guide?

Email Katie@ohParent.com for more details.

SCHOOL + EDUCATION GUIDE CHILDCARE & PRESCHOOL

MONTESSORI

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

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,

45249, theCampusKF.com, Phone: (513) 629-KIDS, Email: info@theCampusKF.com

Chai Tots Early Childhood Center Academic excellence via a unique blend of Jewish and Montessori education offering strong academics, stressing life skills, interpersonal relationship skills and nurturing a love for life-long learning.

Individualized curriculum customized for each student, expansive naturally lit rooms, low student ratio. Specials include yoga, music, Hebrew, Spanish, dance, drama, art and Tae Kwon Do. Flexible schedules, before and aftercare, web cams and after-school enrichment available. Transportation available to/from Mason schools.

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

Creative Tots, Mason Our holistic approach allows children (18 months - 5 1/2 years) the opportunity to learn, explore, play and grow while engaging in the fine arts, science, music, yoga and a modernized curriculum. We provide opportunities to use creativity, solve problems, use language, develop new vocabulary and reading skills, while engaging in intellectual activities. There are elements of STEAM education, bilingual education, arts education, as well as lots of physical activities to strengthen the mind and body. 6408

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

*Sponsored Listings

Cincinnati, OH 45206, Contact: Amanda Grimm, Admissions Director, Phone: (513) 475-6700 ext. 210, Email: agrimm@ mercymontessori.org, mercymontessori.org, Grades: Preschool - 8th Grade, Enrollment: 296

The New School Montessori Cincinnati's only school accredited by the American Montessori Society. Centrally located and surrounded by wooded play yards and gardens, students benefit from a nurturing environment where Montessori-credentialed 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, newschoolmontessori.com, Grades: 3-year-olds through Grade 6, Enrollment: 144 NON–PUBLIC

Bethany School A warm and diverse community that has served Ohio families for 125 years. We believe in the joy of learning. Serving students K-8th grade, our curriculum along with small class sizes of no more than 15 students spark curiosity, encourage play, and make discovery an exciting journey. Our graduates continue to experience academic success in Cincinnati’s premier high schools. Bethany School’s students experience a vibrant array of activities including weekly chapel, fine arts, athletics, travel, and community service.

Our beautiful, nature-filled, 23-acre campus features two LEED Platinum certified buildings offering an ecofriendly learning space where your child can grow and create wonderful memories. Choose Bethany School for your child’s enriching educational journey. 555 Albion Avenue, Glendale, OH 45246 Phone: (513) 771-2462, Email: admissions@bethanyschool.org, bethanyschool.org

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

Hillel Academy of Greater Dayton is a distinguished Jewish day school dedicated to providing a comprehensive and enriching educational experience for students in grades K-6. Rooted in Jewish values and traditions, the academy fosters a warm and supportive family atmosphere where each child is recognized and celebrated for their unique strengths and abilities. 305 Sugar Camp Circle, Dayton, OH 45409 Phone: (937) 277-8966, daytonhillel.org

Rockwern Academy provides academic excellence within a welcoming community. We ensure that students feel safe to take intellectual risks and each child reaches their full potential. We offer before and after-care. Our after-school activities such as dance, sports, art, and STEAM are open to our students and others. 8401 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45236, (513) 984-3770, Contact: Sarah Shmoel, Email: admissions@ rockwernacademy.org, RockwernAcademy. org

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

The Seven Hills School At its core, our culture at Seven Hills celebrates human complexity. We love that we’re all different. In our diverse, inclusive community, we learn to approach each other with open minds and compassionate hearts. We learn that each of us has unique potential and that the variations of that potential make each person’s story worth exploring. Our teachers are recruited from all over the country and trained in some of the nation’s best schools. Our Doherty Campus houses the Doherty division of Lower School (2-year-olds through grade 5). Our Hillsdale Campus houses the Lotspeich division of our Lower School (2-year-olds through grade 5), the Middle School (grades 6-8), and Upper School (grades 9-12).

Hillsdale Campus: 5400 Red Bank Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45227; Doherty Campus: 2726 Johnstone Pl., Cincinnati, OH 45206, Phone: (513) 728-2400, 7hills.org/

The Summit Country Day School Founded in 1890, The Summit serves students from 18 months to Grade 12. Full- and half-day Montessori programs for ages 18 months-age 6 begin the academic journey followed by a collegepreparatory 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 LEARNING DIFFERENCES

Springer School and Center For 50 years, Springer School and Center has empowered students with learning disabilities to lead successful lives. Springer offers a day school for students ages 6-14 and outreach programs and learning disability resources for students, parents and teachers in the Greater Cincinnati area.

The Springer Experience. Success Starts Here. 2121 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: Jill Wieging, Associate Admissions Director, Phone: (513) 871-6080 ext. 211, Fax: (513) 871-6428, Email: jwieging@springer-ld.org, springer-LD.org, Grades: 1 through 8, Enrollment: 200

OH 45431, Phone: (937) 256.1761, sainthelenschool.org

Interested in being part of our monthly guide?

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AROUND TOWN

2024 Spring Consignment and Resale Guide Rhea Lana’s Upscale Resale Date: March 24-28 Location: Butler County Fairgrounds, 1715 Fairgrove Ave., Hamilton More info: northcincinnati. rhealana.com

Plato’s Closet

(Tween and teen clothing) Beavercreek: 2750 North Fairfield Rd., Suite C Beechmont: 8550 Beechmont Ave., Suite 1200 Colerain: 10212 Colerain Ave. Dayton: 8319 Springboro Pike Fields Ertel: 9148 Union Cemetery Rd.

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.

alling all thrifty parents!

Spring consignment season is here, and there are many opportunities to score the best deals on everything your little ones need. From clothing and toys to strollers and shoes, consignment sales let you save big and score some fantastic finds for your growing kiddos.

Here’s where to find the spring sales happening around southwest Ohio!

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Faith MOPS Baby and Kids Sale Date: March 2 Location: 5910 Price Rd., Milford More info: facebook.com/ FaithMOPSbabysale

Anything for Kids Spring 2024 Tag Sale Date: March 23 Location: Lakota East High School, 6840 Lakota Lane, Liberty Twp More info: facebook.com/ wcmultiplesale

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

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

Once Upon a Child Anderson: 8550 Beechmont Ave. Beavercreek: 2750 N. Fairfield Rd. Colerain: 10160 Colerain Ave. Dayton: 8317 Springboro Pike Fields Ertel: 9136 Union Cemetery Huber Heights: 8256 Old Troy Pike Hyde Park: 3880 D Paxton Ave.

Date: March 2

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West Chester: 7758 Dudley Dr. Western Hills: 6153 Glenway Ave. onceuponachild.com

Findlay: 1829 Tiffin Ave. Huber Heights: 8252 Old Troy Pike platoscloset.com

Reruns for Wee Ones Fairfield: 5353 Dixie Hwy. West Chester: 8142 PrincetonGlendale Rd.

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SPRUCING UP FOR

Expert tips for your spring cleaning list.

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t’s that time of year again, when the birds start singing, the chilly southwest Ohio winter days give way to milder temperatures, and our homes are in desperate need of sprucing up. Whether it’s your indoor or outdoor space, if the thought of spring cleaning feels daunting, you’re not alone.

In a recent OnePoll survey, 68% of people said that cleaning their home each spring is an overwhelming task. So, we asked a local expert to weigh in with their insider tips and tricks on how to tackle that spring cleaning to-do list. Here’s what we found.

General Indoor Cleaning Tips

Find Your Motivation Like most other tasks in life, our success starts with our mindset.

Remember, the goal is to create a more enjoyable and peaceful living space for yourself and your loved ones. It's not a contest, and you don’t have to compare your progress to anyone else's success. Start small and adjust your expectations as needed.

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WORDS BY ALLISON GRABER

Gather What You Need Before You Begin “Start with a list of what you want to accomplish,” says Jeannine Franco, owner of Excellence Cleaning Services, a cleaning business that serves the north/central Cincinnati area.

“Getting the items out of your head and onto paper helps so you’re not so overwhelmed.” A list can give you the satisfaction of checking it off as you go along. Then, before diving into your cleaning spree, gather all your essential supplies.

Declutter Before You Clean Head into your cleaning project with a well-defined strategy. Arm yourself with a trash bag and a donation bag, then dive into your closets and drawers with determination. Start by tossing or donating anything you no longer want or need. You’ll find that cleaning and organizing become much simpler once you’ve cleared the clutter.

Focus on One Space at a Time Franco says to resist the temptation to tackle your spring cleaning all at once. Instead, concentrate on one room or area at a time (i.e. cleaning the baseboards or cleaning the front of your

kitchen cabinets). Breaking your project into manageable tasks will keep you from feeling overwhelmed and help you stay committed to your goals.

Stay Organized Year-Round Don't let all your hard work go to waste by saving cleaning duties for the spring. Lovett suggests establishing a quarterly plan for decluttering your home.

By staying organized throughout the year, you'll cut down on stress and keep your space looking its best. Here are three simple practices that Lovett says can help you stay clutter-free:

• Put things away immediately after use.

• Reset your space at the beginning of each week.

• Evaluate your belongings periodically and donate or discard items you no longer need.

Clean Outdoor Furniture Begin by removing any debris from your patio furniture.

Follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning cushions and other fabric components. Use a gentle mixture of warm water and mild dish soap to wipe down furniture surfaces.

Use a Pressure Washer Rent or buy a pressure washer to clean your home's siding, decks and pavement. This powerful tool will help you remove dirt, mold, and grime that can accumulate over the winter season. Make sure to wear clothing that can get dirty and wet.

Clean Your Gutters Gutters can get filled with leaves and other debris over the winter. Make sure to clean them out to prevent any water damage to your home.

Enlist Help When Needed

Care for Your Lawn and Garden

If time constraints or other factors are holding you back, don't hesitate to ask for help. Recruit family members to pitch in or consider hiring a professional cleaning service if it's within your budget.

Mow your lawn, rake up leaves, and aerate your soil to promote healthy grass growth. Trim your trees and shrubs to encourage new growth and maintain a polished appearance.

Practical Outdoor Cleaning Tips Ever since the pandemic, people have spent more time outdoors than ever before. This has translated to using our personal outdoor spaces on a more regular basis. Because of this shift, you may have more outdoor cleaning to do each year. Here are some tasks we suggest you add to your outdoor to-do list.

Clean Your Outdoor Lighting Wipe down your outdoor light fixtures with a damp cloth, clearing away dirt and bugs. Replace any broken or outdated bulbs.

Once you’ve checked off your spring cleaning to-do list, take time to enjoy your space and celebrate the work you’ve done. Although we can’t control everything in life, we can spruce up our indoor and outdoor spaces to enjoy them this spring.

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

New Life Furniture Bank Transforming the homes and lives of families one furniture donation at a time.

W O R D S B Y PA M F R E E M A N

The church responded with an abundance of furniture and everything Teresa needed to start over — her house was made into a home! This act of kindness restored Teresa’s dignity, relieved the stress of buying furniture and allowed Teresa to focus on providing for her children.

InterFaith Hospitality recognized the need for a furniture bank, and began referring more clients to Holly and Tim.

How do you reach families in need?

o you have a couch or another piece of big furniture that you don’t know what to do with? Do you also want to make a big difference in someone’s life? New Life Furniture Bank collects gently used furniture from people who have extra and delivers it to people overcoming devastating circumstances such as homelessness.

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“We are honored to be Southwest Ohio’s only nationally registered furniture bank serving Greater Cincinnati, Dayton and Northern Kentucky,” says Heather Voit, vice president of advancement at New Life Furniture Bank.

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How did you get started?

New Life Furniture Bank was founded in 2006 by Holly Young, Tim Nabors and volunteers from the Milford First United Methodist Church in partnership with the InterFaith Hospitality Network which provides emergency shelter to homeless families.

Holly and Tim volunteered together to help families who were staying at their church overcome homelessness. During this time, Holly met Teresa, who had fled domestic abuse with her three children and just the clothes on their backs. Shortly after, Teresa moved into a new house, and she shared with Holly that she had pulled three twin mattresses out of the dumpster for her children. Holly told Teresa that she would help her find clean mattresses for the children and quickly organized a furniture and housewares drive.

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We partner with over 70 social service agencies in Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Dayton who refer their clients to us for furniture. Typically, furniture recipients are receiving supportive services from these agencies and are on the track for self-sufficiency.

What kind of impact are you seeing on the community?

When you donate furniture and household items to New Life Furniture Bank, you are caring for our planet, community and neighbors in need. Last year, we collected and distributed over 33,000 pieces of furniture. This is approximately 1.9 million pounds or 992 tons of solid

waste potentially diverted from our landfills. These items were delivered to over 2,278 households of individuals and families in our community overcoming devastating circumstances. When you donate furniture, your furniture will be given a new life for someone who is in need. Your donations make the world a better place.

How can people get involved with New Life Furniture?

There are many ways to get involved with New Life Furniture Bank. We rely on hundreds of volunteers every year to help us fulfill our mission and have lots of fun opportunities for people of all ages and interests.

We also accept furniture donations. If you have furniture to donate, please schedule a furniture pickup online at nlfurniture.org or drop it off at our warehouse in Blue Ash.

March 2024

THINGS TO DO

THURS - SUN, MARCH 7-10 DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS MAGIC IN THE STARS at Heritage Bank Center

hike. Location: Miami Whitewater Forest, Time:1 pm, greatparks.org

Paint-A-Park Spring is starting to add it's pop of color to the landscape.

Go out and add your own pop of color to the world! Location: Cox Arboretum MetroPark, Time: 2 pm - 5 pm, metroparks. org *F

Songs and Stories ​Join in for songs and storytime in the Children's Museum! Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, Time: 10:30 am, cincymuseum.org

MON 04

FRI 01

SAT 02

First Person Program Series: Mary Ann Bickerdyke Come to the Village and learn about notable people of the past from the presenters. Location:

The Great Pancake Pickup What could be better than a nice stack of pancakes, with fresh syrup made right here in your backyard?

How about those same pancakes, syrup and bacon delivered right to your car as you drive through our Great Pancake Pickup! That’s right, all you have to do is drive through and give your order, and they will hand them right to you through your window. Location: GCPT Headquarters,

Heritage Village Museum, Time: 7 pm, heritagevillagecincinnati.org

Disco Skate You should be skating, yeaaah! For the final evening of ice skating for the season, RiverScape MetroPark is going back to the 70's for Disco Night. Location: MetroParks Ice Rink, Time: 7 pm - 10 pm, metroparks.org

FRI 01 – SUN 03 32nd Servatii Bockfest Bockfest is Cincinnati’s annual celebration of Spring, Over-theRhine's brewing heritage, and Bock Beer. It stumbles into its 32nd year on March 1-3, 2024 in and around Over-the-Rhine's historic Brewery District. Location: Over-the-Rhine, bockfest.com *F

*F = FREE FOR FAMILIES

Time: 8:30 am - 11 am, gcparkstrails.com *F

Squish Mascot Giveaway It's so squishy! The first 3,000 fans will bring home a squishy version of a Cyclones mascot! Location: Heritage Bank Center, Time: 3 pm, heritagebankcenter.com

Woodcock Wooing Hike Love is in the air! Enjoy the sights and sounds of the mating display of the American Woodcock during this crepuscular (early evening) hike.

Learn about the mysterious lifestyle of this shorebird and its many names such as timberdoodle and bog

*SN = SPECIAL NEEDS FRIENDLY

sucker. Plan to hike over unlevel terrain and dress appropriately for the weather. Location: Elk Creek MetroPark, Time: 6 pm - 7 pm, yourmetroparks.net *F

Maple Sugaring Nature has its own way of providing us with sweeteners. Join in as they do maple sugaring on the farm. Location: Carriage Hill MetroPark, Time: 10 am - 4 pm, metroparks.org *F

Captain’s Lunch Cruise Break up your day and sail away!

Climb aboard for a 2-hour cruise featuring entertainment and a delicious buffet. All seating is reserved. Bar available to purchase soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.

Location: BB Riverboats, Time: 12 pm - 2 pm, bbriverboats.com

SUN 03 Hikin’ for Lichen Got a likin’ for lichen? Let’s go hikin’! Lichens can range from our backyards to volcanic cliffsides, and they can even survive in outer space! Let’s observe their diversity and experience their complex lifestyles on this one-mile

Young At Art Join us for hands on learing through play the messy way with Young at Art in Kidspace in The Children's Museum. Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, Time: 10:30 am, cincymuseum.org

TUES 05 Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live: King For A Day! Daniel Tiger and all of his friends are hopping back on board Trolley and coming to your town with DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE: KING FOR A DAY! Join Daniel, O the Owl, Miss Elaina, Katerina Kittycat, Prince Wednesday, and more familiar friends for a brand-new adventure in the Neighborhood of Make-Believe where Daniel learns just what it takes to be King. Location: Victoria Theatre, Time: 6 pm, daytonlive.org

Native Fish Feeding and Red-Eared Slider Turtle Feeding Join staff inside the Rowe Visitor Center for a 10-to-20-minute mini-program on our indoor native fish and red-eared slider turtle tanks.

Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 10 am - 10:20 am, cincynature.org

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WEDS 06

REC Reads Bring your toddler or preschooler to the Rosenthal Education Center for a morning of art-themed story books, songs, and sensory activities. Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, Time: 11:30 am, cincinnatiartmuseum.org

Tiny Thursdays at the DAI Popular child and caregiver preschool program at The Dayton Art Institute.

Location: Dayton Art Institute, Time: 11:15 am - 12 pm, daytonartinstitute.org

FRI 08

Chipmunk Adventures for Preschool Children: Helpers on the Farm Chipmunk Adventures are classes for preschool children, ages 2-5 years old, accompanied by an adult. Join in to explore and have wild, wacky, wonderful adventures at Aullwood Farm! Plenty of hands-on activities, art projects, stories, songs and learning experiences await even the youngest learners. Location: Aullwood Audubon Center, Time: 10 am - 11:45 am, aullwood.audubon.org

Disney Princess: The Concert For generations, the music of Disney’s princesses has been the soundtrack to our lives. Now, these beloved songs come alive on stage with a host of Broadway and television stars in Disney Princess The Concert! Your every dream will come true as larger than life animation and theatrical effects immerse the audience in pure Disney magic, while powerhouse stars sing your favorite princess, hero and (yes!) villain songs, and share behind-thescenes stories from their time on the stage and screen. Location: Taft Theatre, Time: 6:30 pm, tafttheatre.org

THURS 07 – SUN 10

Disney on Ice Presents Magic in the Stars Chart a course through the night sky to Disney On Ice - where every story starts with a wish! Take a magical journey with Mickey, Minnie, and friends through the timeless stories of Cinderella, Aladdin, Toy Story, and Cars, and todays favorites including Encanto, Frozen 2, and Moana.

Experience the on-ice debuts of Raya from Raya and the Last Dragon and Asha from Wish, and create enchanted memories with Tiana, Rapunzel, and The Disney Princesses.

Celebrate the unforgettable adventures of Disney and Pixar brought to life in new ways at Disney On Ice presents Magic in the Stars.

Location: Heritage Bank Center, heritagebankcenter.com

Reptile Show and Character Appearance Scaly friends, playtime, and a pup-ular character!

Join for a reptile show, open play, and a special Bluey and Bingo appearance!! Explore the fascinating world of reptiles, enjoy some playtime with friends, and watch our beloved Bluey hold a snake or a tarantula! It's going to be a hiss-terical day out! Location: Magic Land Pay Cafe, Time: 5 pm, magiclandharrison.com

SAT 09

Families Create: Can Do Candy Creations Marvel at area architects’ and designers’ canned goods structures and then construct your own from a super sweet assortment of cookies and candy.

Location: Aronoff Center, Time: 10 am, cincinnatiarts.org

THURS 07

Discovery on the Farm Shadow Shenanigans Help catch more shadow shenanigans during this fun program and learn about daylight savings time. Find out why shadows change throughout the year through activities and crafts.

Come and see if our farm animals make shadows during the live animal demonstration, too. Location: Chrisholm MetroPark, Time: 10 am - 11:30 am, yourmetroparks.net

The Bert & Ernie Show!

Turtle Tales Join staff inside Rowe Visitor Center for a 10-to-20minute mini-program on our indoor native Eastern box turtles, Bert & Ernie. Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 11 am - 11:20 am, cincynature.org

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Ears are for Reading Take advantage of this great opportunity to read to a farm animal in a stress-free, non-judgmental environment. Bring your book of choice or choose one from our farm library. After sharing your story with the animals, spend time getting to know your new friend and enjoy a snack, too. Reading time slots are available every 1/2 hour. Location:

Chrisholm MetroPark, TIme: 1 pm - 3 pm, yourmetroparks.net

Glow Night at Sky Zone Dayton Glow Night Friday & Saturday Night for ages 8yrs and up.

Wear a shirt that glows—anything white or neon! Location: Sky Zone

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

SUN 10

Maple Sugaring Nature has its own way of providing us with sweeteners. Join in as they do maple sugaring on the farm. Location: Carriage Hill MetroPark, Time: 10 am - 4 pm, metroparks.org *F

craft activity after the story.Free with admission. Location: Krohn Conservatory, Time: 10:30 am - 11 am, cincinnati-oh.gov

Wild Senses Join staff inside Rowe Visitor Center for a 20-to-30minute mini-program where we make nature discoveries using our senses and feed our resident non-venomous snakes. Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 11 am 11:30 am, cincynature.org

WEDS 13

Signs of Spring Log another mile as you use your senses to find early signs of spring. Buds, blooms, and birds are just a few of the things we will find along the forest path.

Location: Woodland Mound, Time: 6:30 pm, greatparks.org

KangaMoves Wear your tiny dancer in your favorite baby carrier for a class made for Mama (or Dada), but with baby in mind! For children ages 6 weeks and up and their caregiver.

Have fun with your child while you get a little bit of a workout. Location: LilyPad Play, Time: 9:15 am, lilypadplay.com

Sensory Sunday at the Boonshoft Museum The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery’s Sensory Sunday program offers extended hours for local families who might benefit from visiting the museum during a less stimulating time. During these special hours, the Museum will adjust lighting and sound, have trained volunteers and additional staff available. Location: Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, Time: 10 am - 2 pm, boonshoft.org *SN

TUES 12

Storytime at Krohn Storytime with Children's Librarian from Cincinnati Public Library. Listen to a story and participate in a take home

THURS 14 Busy Bees Dance and Tumble Join Maria with a fun-filled class of movement and music. She will introduce both dance concepts and tumbling movements to help with toddler gross motor development. Location: LilyPad Play,

Time: 10:30 am – 11:15 am, lilypadplay.com

Hootin’ in the Holler Learn the different species of owls in our area and take a hike to visit our neighbors down in the holler.

Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 6:30 pm - 8 pm, cincynature.org

FRI 15 Story Walk Series Join for the latest installment of the LaBoiteaux Woods StoryWalk Series! Take a self-guided stroll to read the story together around the perimeter of the field. No registration necessary, this program is entirely self-guided.

Location: LaBoiteaux Woods Nature Center, Time: 7 am - 8 pm, cincinnati-oh.gov

FRI, MARCH 8 DISNEY PRINCESS: THE CONCERT at the Taft Theatre

For the Birds! This month's story time is for the birds- literally! We will read "Bird Watch" by Christie Matheson and each participant will create their own bird watching handbook to take home! Location: 2nd Street Market, Time: 11:30 am - 12:15 pm, metroparks.org

SAT 16 – SUN 17 St. Patrick's Day Weekend Sláinte! Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in the heart of Downtown Cincinnati.

The St. Patrick’s Day 2024 festivities run Saturday, March 16 and Sunday, March 17. There will be live music, bar will be open serving beer, wine, seltzers, and specialty drinks, and Festival Concessions will be serving up delicious grub including Bangers & Mash, Corned Beef Sandwich, Shepherds Pie, Funnel Cake, and Green Cotton Candy. Location: Fountain Square, Time: 12 pm, myfountainsquare.com

SAT 16 Webelos: Earth Rocks!

Cincinnati has a rich geologic history for us to dig in to! Bring your den to Sharon Woods to be a geologist for the day and complete this elective adventure. Go on a rock hunt, test minerals, and discover how rocks and minerals affect our everyday lives in ways big and small. Location: Sharon

Woods, Time: 10 am - 12 pm, greatparks.org

The Rainbow Fish Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s elegant show, THE RAINBOW FISH, brings Marcus Pfister’s colorful story (along with Rainbow Fish Discovers and the Deep Sea and Opposites) to life with enchanting puppetry. Location: Victoria Theatre, Time: 1 pm & 4 pm, daytonlive.org

Family FUN Science Night Science is everywhere! Spend time outdoors exploring sensory activities on a short night hike and discover the secrets of our local nocturnal wildlife through interactive games. Location:

SUN 17

Lucky Leprechaun Hunt in the Nature Playscale Leprechauns are loose in the PlayScape, and we need your help finding them! Search for clues to figure out where the leprechauns are hiding and win a special prize. Ideal for children of any age with an adult caregiver. Location: Cincinnati Nature

Location: Washington Park, Time: 11 am - 2 pm, washingtonpark.org

at Fountain Square

Center, Time: 1 pm - 2:30 pm, cincynature.org

Shamrock Happy Hour Hike Join in and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day the Nature Center way! Location:

Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 4 pm - 5:30 pm, cincynature.org

MON 18 Acoustic Jam Acoustic Jam is a class that encourages children, newborn to 6 years old, to sing and dance along with live music! By mixing original kids rock 'n' roll with popular tunes, the concert is sure to please little ones and adults. Location: LilyPad Play, Time: 10:30 am - 11:15am, lilypadplay.com

TUES 19 & WEDS 20

NCAA First Four The 2024 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship begins with the First Four, four first-round games on March 19-20, 2024, at University of Dayton Arena, hosted by the University of Dayton. Location: University of Dayton Arena, daytonflyers.com/feature/ ncaa-first-four

TUES 19

Founder's Day at Pyramid Hill In honor of our Founder, Harry T. Wilks, our members, and everyone who has supported our Park, admission to Pyramid Hill is free annually on Founder's Day. Mark your calendars and bring a friend to experience art in nature! Location:

Pyramid Hill, Time: 9 am - 5 pm, pyramidhill. org *F

Caldwell Nature Preserve, Time: 6:30 pm - 9 pm, cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

Mutt Madness Have you spent all winter thinking about adding a furry family member? It's time. Join local dog vendors on Saturday, March 16th from 11a-2p for Mutt Madness in the park! There will be tons of dogs available for adoption, and adoptions can happen onsite! If you're not quite ready to commit to adoption, stop by to learn more about fostering.

SAT, & SUN, MARCH 16-17 ST. PATRICK'S DAY WEEKEND

Resident Raptors Join staff outside of Rowe Visitor Center for a 10-to-20-minute mini-program on our resident raptors. It‘ll be an informal program; They are going to wing it!

Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 1 pm - 1:20 pm, cincynature.org

WEDS 20 Period Dinner The March Period Dinner theme is Little Women: Recipes Inspired by the March Sisters.

The menu includes: Vegetable Soup,

SAT 23

Plenty of Potatoes, “The History of Squash” Casserole, Roast Beef “For Great Appetites”, Rolls with Apple Jelly, and Charlotte Russe for dessert.

Location: Heritage Village Museum, Time: 6 pm - 8 pm, heritagevillagecincinnati.org

THURS 21

Discovery on the Farm - Luck of a 4-leaf Clover Dress up in your greenest outfit and help local pollinators with your own 4-leaf wonder. Decorate a trap to catch the farm leprechaun before he eats all of our tasty treats. Check out the nitrogen nodules on clover roots with a microscope and learn the importance of legumes in the gardens surrounding Chrisholm.

Location: Chrisholm MetroPark, Time: 10 am - 11:30 am, yourmetroparks.net

The Red Hot Chilli Pipers It’s THE RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS – (NOT the Peppers!) – a 9-piece ensemble consisting of pipers, guitarists, keyboards, and drummers – who have been rocking the world from New York to Beijing to Melbourne and everywhere in between with musicianship of the highest order and a passion for pipes that will leave you breathless. Location: Victoria Theatre, Time: 7:30 pm, daytonlive.org

Sensory Saturday A before public hours program designed for families with children who have autism or other developmental disabilities. Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, Time: 9:30 am - 11:30 am, cincinnatiartmuseum.org *SN

Sign Crafting Saturday Explore the skills needed to become an expert sign maker as a family. Play with different materials each month as you learn about different elements of sign making. Location: American Sign Museum, Time: 1 pm - 3 pm, americansignmuseum.org

Casey’s Crazy Craft Show Kick off your spring season by visiting Casey’s Crazy Craft Show located in our Expo Center and Main Street area.

You won’t want to miss this event featuring a special appearance by our very own Casey Bear! Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, Time: 10 am - 3 pm, entertrainmentjunction.com *F

Fairy Adventure in the Nature Playscape Join us in exploring the magic of spring in the PlayScape by crafting your own wand with the help of fairies. Find all the fairies scattered throughout the PlayScape to complete your wand and capture the magic of spring.

Perfect for ages 5 and up with an adult caregiver. Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 10 am - 11 am & 11:30 am - 12:30 pm, cincynature.org

FRI 22 Aquarium After Dark What happens at Newport Aquarium after the lights go out? After entering the Aquarium, you'll be welcomed by a special animal ambassador before enjoying a pizza party with a creepy crawly twist. Then, head to Shark Ray Bay Theater to witness a magical twilight reveal of what sharks and other sea creatures do at night. All your newfound knowledge will help you on your after-dark scavenger hunt through the Aquarium, using a neon glowstick to light your way.

Location: Newport Aquarium, Time: 7:15 pm - 11:15 pm, newportaquarium.com

MON 25

Full Moon Walk: Worm Moon at Rowe Woods Witness the night's magic transform the trails as we marvel at the full moon and reveal natural history happenings.

Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 8 pm - 9:30 pm, cincynature.org

TUES 26 Make 'Sense'! with Hunny Nanny This sensory class is focused around educational playmaking learning memorable and exciting. Your child will get to unleash their imagination in themed sensory

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EASTER EVENTS

MARCH 23-24 & MARCH 29-31 EASTER BUNNY EXPRESS

at LMM Railroad

SAT 09 Easter Bunny Shop Hop Get your FREE picture taken with the Easter Bunny at the Tipp City Public Library! Shop at downtown businesses for the opportunity to take home an exclusive fun filled basket! Location: Tipp City Public Library,

bins and get as messy as they want, because they do all the cleaning!

Location: LilyPad Play, Time: 10:30 am 11:15am, lilypadplay.com

Time: 10 am - 4 pm, tippcitylibrary.org *F

THURS 28 – SUN 31

Homemade Ice Cream Pint Sale at Young's Dairy Young’s Jersey Dairy’s delicious homemade ice cream is on sale for $3.49 a pint!!

This is a once a year sale, so don’t miss out! Stock up on Young’s homemade ice cream! Location:

they discover what makes different cities unique and special. Will there be monster trucks, excavators, and garbage trucks galore? You bet!

Location: Schuster Center, Time: 2 pm, daytonlive.org

Young’s Jersey Dairy, youngsdairy.com

THURS 28 Findlay Market Opening Day Parade Join in celebrating Reds Opening Day at the annual Findlay Market Opening Day Parade.

The parade will begin at Findlay Market at 9 AM and end at the Great American Ball Park. Location: Findlay Market, Time: 9 am - 2 pm, findlaymarket. org *F

Reds Opening Day It's time to dust off your mitts and indulge in the thrill of Red's Opening Day. From the crack of the bat to the roar of the crowd, Red's Opening Day is a cherished tradition that showcases our love for this great American pastime. Let's root, root, root for the home team! Location: Great American Ball Park, Time: 4:10 pm, mlb.com/reds

Aronoff Center, cincinnati.broadway.com

Pucks N Pups Featuring Scooby-Doo Dogs, Dogs, Dogs!!

The game you've all been waiting for...Wiener Dog Races! Catch all the action with your four-legged fan during Pups N Pucks night! Dog owners must purchase a special Pups N Pucks ticket by calling 513-4217825. Plus the Cyclones will be wearing special Scooby-Doo jerseys.

Location: Heritage Bank Center, Time: 6:30 pm, heritagebankcenter.com

Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour Blippi is coming to your city for the ultimate curiosity adventure in BLIPPI: THE WONDERFUL WORLD TOUR! So, come on! Dance, sing, and learn with Blippi and special guest Meekah as O H PA R E N T.CO M

SAT 16 Hop Into Spring Get your bunnies ready to have a hoptastic time getting ready for spring.

Pictures with the Easter Bunny, scavenger hunt, treat bags, bounce house, games, plant seedlings to grow at home and crafts for the kiddos. Food and drinks for purchase: Little Trolley Donuts and drinks by Travelin’ Toms Coffee and KONA Ice. Location: Testerman Park, Time: 10 am - 1 pm, hamilton-township.org

Time: 4:10 pm, mlb.com/reds

The Great Ohio Toy Show Calling all toy lovers! This Spring show will be bursting with vintage and modern toys of all kinds! Location: Greene County Fairgrounds, Time: 9 am - 5pm, facebook.com/events/ 305985245400496

SUN 31 Stroll with a Naturalist Join a front desk naturalist for a Sunday stroll and learn what is happening in the natural world. Location: Cincinnati

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition March 9 - Sept 2, 2024.

Your Ticket Aboard Titanic Awaits.

Experience the wonder and tragedy of the world's most famous ocean-liner, Titanic. Viewed by more than 30 million people worldwide, this Exhibition is one of the highest attended in history. With more than 200 authentic artifacts recovered from the wreck site of Titanic on display with full-scale room recreations, TITANIC: The Artifact Exhibition is an educational and intriguing experience for all ages.

Location: COSI, Times: Vary, cosi.org/titanic

Nature Center, Time: 11 am - 11:45 am, cincynature.org

SAT 30

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Kids Opening Day Be there to celebrate a special Kids Opening Day, featuring a pregame red carpet parade with Reds players and mascots and more fun activities for kids. Location: Great American Ball Park,

Peter Pan March 12 - 24. The adventure begins when PETER PAN and his mischievous sidekick, Tinker Bell, visit the bedroom of the Darling children late one night. With a sprinkle of fairy dust and a few happy thoughts, the children are taken on a magical journey they will never forget. This extraordinary musical full of excitement and adventure features iconic and timeless songs including “I’m Flying,” “I Gotta Crow,” “I Won’t Grow Up” and “Neverland.” Location:

ONGOING Tavern Dinners March 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30. Carillon Historical Park’s tavern dinner series features an authentic, three-course, hearthcooked meal and historical entertainment in Newcom Tavern (Est. 1796)—Dayton’s oldest building. Newcom Tavern was also the city’s first jail, church, general store, and Montgomery County’s first courthouse. With recipes pulled from 19th-century receipt books, guests learn how Daytonians dined in the 1800s. Costumed interpreters bring 19th-century Dayton to life during this unique candlelit dinner. Location: Carillon Historical Park, daytonhistory.org

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Deep Universe Ongoing. See the universe like never before.

Remarkable cinematography transports you to the spectacular Pillars of Creation nebula, the cosmic dust cloud of Rho Ophiuchi, the dying star Southern Ring Nebula and the blazing, massive stars of the Tarantula Nebula over 160,000 light years away. Deep Sky, narrated by Oscar-nominated actress Michelle Williams, goes behind the scenes of the James Webb Space Telescope, capturing its launch and the release of the mind blowing first full-color images of deep space. Location: Omnimax Theatre at the Cincinnati Museum Center, Times: Vary (ongoing), cincymuseum.org/deep-sky

Vandalia Paws in the Park Easter Party Bring your dog out to Helke Park and have a barkin’ good time! We will have many fur-friendly festivities, like egg hunts, dog vendors, dog costume contest, food truck and pictures with the Easter Bunny! Treat your furry friend to an “egg”stra special day! Location: Helke Park, Time: 11 am - 1:30 pm, webtrac. vandaliaohio.org

FRI 22 Extreme Egg Hunt Easter egg hunts aren’t just for kids anymore!

This egg hunt is AMPED up and sure to be a wild time! Can you find Easter eggs in the dark? If you can, you could win prizes! Participants must have a flashlight to participate, bags will be provided. Ages 18 and up only. Location: Caesar Ford Park, Time: 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm, gcparkstrails.com

SAT 23 – SUN 24 & FRI 29 – SUN 31 The Easter Bunny Express Hop aboard the LM&M Railroad’s Easter Bunny Express! Enjoy a train ride, while being entertained by our balloon artists, then participate in an Easter egg hunt. The Easter Bunny will be hopping throughout the train for photo opportunities. This year’s egg hunt will be at the Lebanon Sports Complex. Don’t worry, the Easter Bunny and her helpers will make sure every child receives eggs.

Don’t forget to bring your favorite egg gathering basket! Location: LM&M Railroad, lebanonrr.com

SAT 23 Breakfast with Bunny The Bunny will be hopping back into Alleyway Cafe just in time for Easter!

Bring your little ones over for a tasty breakfast with the Easter Bunny!

Location: Alleyway Cafe, Time: 8 am - 11 am, facebook.com/events/ 866195745245271

Liberty Township Egg Hunt Mark your calendars for Liberty Township’s Easter Egg Hunt! Location: Liberty Center, Time: 10 am - 12 pm, liberty-center.com

HOPPIN' Easter Egg Hunt Bring your Easter baskets so you can grab all of the Easter eggs that you can find! Several specialty prize eggs and activities! Don’t forget to bring your camera for a photo op with the Easter Bunny! Location: Village Green Park, Time: 10 am - 11:30 am, fairfield-city. org *F

Easter Egg-Stravaganza!

Come out and join us for an event for the whole family! There will be fun to be had for everyone! There will be a craft show and bake sale indoors as well as an Easter Egg Drop for kids ages 12 and under (bags will be provided). There will also be games and raffles, don’t miss out! Location: Markets at Pleasant Treasure's Markets LLC, Time: 10 am - 4 pm, marketsatpleasanttreasures.com

The Great Symmes Egg Hunt Join us for an annual egg hunt! There will be plenty of colorful eggs to find plus some surprises.

The egg hunt is for kids aged 10 and under. Location: Home of the Brave Park, Time: 11:30 am - 12:30 pm, symmestownship.org *F

Egg Hunt at Veterans Park Be sure to get there very early as the egg hunt is over in a couple minutes.

Bring a basket to collect eggs and perhaps a few extra pieces of candy in your pocket in case your little ones are not able to find any eggs. It’s always nice to see parents bring some of their own to share with others if needed. We will have thousands of eggs but cannot guarantee getting one as this is a very well attended event. Location: Veterans Park, Time: 1 pm, greentwp.org

Milford Christian Church Egg Hunt Join Milford 131 Kids for the annual Easter egg hunt!

Donuts and water will be provided for everyone and a goodie bag for our egg hunters! Location: Milford Christian Church, Time: 8 am - 10 am, milfordchurch.org

Centennial Park Egg Hunt Hop on over to Centennial Park for the annual Englewood Easter Egg Hunt. Children ages 8 and under are welcome to bring their baskets to the park for a morning of egg hunting, treats, prizes and a chance to meet the Easter Bunny. The hunt begins promptly at 10:30 a.m. We recommend you arrive for line-up by 10:15 a.m. The Easter Bunny will arrive at the park on the Fire Truck at 9:45 a.m. Don't forget to bring your camera! Location: Centennial Park, Time: 10:30 am, englewood.oh.us

Underwater Easter Egg Hunt All egg hunters welcome!

Come on out and dive for eggs and turn in eggs for candy and prizes!

You can stay and enjoy open swim after hunts are complete.

Participants must be able to swim and/or must be accompanied by an adult. Location: Vandalia Recreation Center, Time: 10 am - 11 am, webtrac. vandaliaohio.org

FRI 29 – MON 01

Contest for Egg-splorers!

Fairfield Parks will be placing five large wooden Easter eggs at five of the 29 parks. Your job is to search for these eggs, take a photo by all five eggs, and email the photos to aosborne@fairfieldoh.gov. The first 50 winners (must send photos with all five eggs) will win a small prize to be picked up at the Fairfield Community Arts Center! Location: Fairfield Parks, Fairfield-city.org *F

SAT 30 Zoo Easter Celebration This egg-citing day is FREE with Zoo Admission! The celebration will feature animals receiving Easterthemed enrichment throughout the day and Treat Stations through the Zoo. To help the Zoo go green, please bring your own treat bag!

Children will also have the opportunity to meet the Easter Bunny. Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Time: 12 pm - 5 pm, cincinnatizoo.org

Easter Eggspress All aboard the Easter Eggspress! Celebrate the Easter holiday with your family at the Kentucky Railway Museum. Take a fun train ride, enjoy the museum and model trains, learn about the history of the railroad, and best of all — meet the Easter Bunny! Weather permitting, children can enjoy an Easter egg hunt following the train excursion. It’s a fun time for everyone in the family, especially the train lovers. Location: Kentucky Railway

SAT 30 & SUN 31 Egg Hunt at Washington Park It’s Washington Park Egg Hunt time and every-bunny is invited! Instead of a traditional egg hunt, they will be holding a two-day egg scavenger hunt in the park on March 30th and 31st. Location: Washington Park, Time: 11 am - 3 pm, washingtonpark.org *F

SUN 31 Young’s 41st Annual Easter Egg Hunt As is our tradition, Young’s Jersey Dairy will hard boil and dye more than 10,000 eggs for their Easter Egg Hunt. This event starts promptly at 2 PM for children ages 4 and under. At 2:20 PM for ages 5 to 7. At 2:40 PM will be the final hunt for ages 8 to 10. Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy, Time: 2 pm, youngsdairy.com *F

Easter Brunch and Dinner Cruise Celebrate Easter and enjoy the spring. Come aboard for our annual Easter cruise for a fabulous buffet meal, relaxing atmosphere and outstanding views.

You can enjoy a hearty brunch or a traditional Easter dinner featuring ham and chicken. Even the Easter Bunny will attend! All seating is reserved. Location: BB Riverboats, Time: 1 pm & 5:30 pm, bbriverboats.com

Museum, Time: 12 pm & 2 pm, kyrail.org

Fairfield Easter Breakfast Come out and meet the Easter Bunny and Alice from Alice in Wonderland. The breakfast buffet offers over 25 items during our breakfast while making memories with your family. There will be food for all ages to enjoy. Location: Receptions Fairfield, Time: 10:30 am, receptionsinc.com

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FUN+ WACKY 03.2024 CALENDAR by SW OHIO PARENT

SUN

MON

TUES

WEDS

THURS

FRI

SAT

2

1 WHEELCHAIR DAY

BANANA CREAM PIE DAY

4

3 MARCHING BAND DAY

WORLD WILDLIFE DAY

5 UNIQUE NAMES DAY

6 FROZEN FOOD DAY

7

9

8

BOOK DAY

BARBIE DAY

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

10

11 DREAM DAY

RAMADAN BEGINS

17

ST. PATRICK’S DAY

18

WAFFLE DAY

19

KEN DAY

26 PURPLE DAY

14

20

27 MANATEE APPRECIATION DAY

15 NAPPING DAY

CHILDREN’S CRAFT DAY

STORYTELLING DAY

25

HOLI

GIRL SCOUT DAY

13

FIRST DAY OF SPRING

SLOPPY JOE DAY

24

12

PANDA DAY

21 CRUNCHY TACO DAY

16

23

22

GOOF OFF DAY

28

PURIM

29 MERMAID DAY

WEAR A HAT DAY

30 TAKE A WALK IN THE PARK DAY

31

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