29 minute read
Detecting Early Signs of Autism
D E T E C T I N G EARLY SIGNS EARLY SIGNS OF AUTISM OF AUTISM
WORDS BY LINDSAY CONNER
Learn how to spot the early signs of autism, when early intervention is crucial.
Did you know that early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can show up in toddlers as young as 12 months old? With this knowledge in hand, parents and caregivers can look out for specific behaviors and missed milestones and get your child the help they need to learn, grow and thrive.
Learning to recognize the early markers of ASD can be a challenge, but it’s important for intervention. “Parents can start noticing ASD signs as early as 1 to 2 years old,” says Trudy Yeager, OT, with ABC Pediatric Therapy Network. “Typically they can notice it through behaviors such as lining up toys, repetitive behaviors like rocking and twirling, spinning objects, social skills, communication skills, limited tolerance for changes in routine, and limited tolerance for a variety of sensory input.” Additionally, a lack of babbling or language development (very few or no words by 16 months, or very few or no meaningful two-word phrases by 24 months) can be a sign of ASD. Not making eye contact or turning toward the person speaking is another marker. Also, if the child doesn’t point at people or objects, imitate sounds or movements, or has little to no response if their name is called, these are some other behaviors to watch out for.
Not all children with autism show all the signs, and many children who don’t have autism will show a few. That’s why professional evaluation is crucial.
TESTING AND DIAGNOSIS
A diagnosis of Autism may be received as early as 18 months, yet the average age of diagnosis in the U.S. is around 4 years. When a parent suspects a child may have key indicators of ASD, a first step is to contact their primary care physician for a complete check-up to rule out other medical concerns.
“Pediatricians help guide the diagnosis and treatment plan for autism and are great resources for developmental milestones,” explains Kristin Feld, OT, with ABC Pediatric Therapy Network. “If the pediatrician is in agreement that the child is showing developmental delays or possibly autism, request a referral for an evaluation.”
There is no single sign that definitively points to the presence of an autism spectrum disorder, but parents who notice even one sign or developmental concern should share this information with their child’s pediatrician, early intervention provider or school. While a wait-and-see approach is certainly valid in some circumstances, parents should be their child’s strongest advocate, asking for specific timelines if they are asked to wait. They may also seek second opinions and appropriate therapies in the meantime.
For children under 3, parents in Hamilton County should also submit a request for services from Help Me Grow (HMG), Ohio’s early intervention program. These requests can be submitted online (helpmegrow.org) or by phone (513-4343322 or 1-800-755-GROW), and can be accessed through the Ohio Department of Health website.
For children 3 years and older, parents can contact their local elementary school or school district (whether the child attends school there or not) to share that they have concerns about their child’s development and request an evaluation for preschool (ages 3 to 5) or school-age (6 and older) special education services through the school district.
TREATMENT
A psychologist with Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services, Lauren Jones, Ph.D explains that there is not one specific treatment for autism, as treatments should be individualized to target a child’s specific needs and developmental goals. Some strategies may include ABA therapy, which focuses on building new skills by breaking them down into teachable parts, increasing helpful behaviors and skills, and decreasing challenging or unsafe behaviors. “Other important therapies might include training parents to support a child’s learning and behavior, speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and play or talk therapy,” Jones adds. Some children also benefit from medications to help with symptoms related to autism, such as difficulties with attention, behavior regulation, or mood.
According to Yeager, parents can help kids learn and grow by providing them with a variety of sensory input throughout the day and helping to challenge their routines. “Also, it’s important to give them structured time for adult-directed tasks and encourage them to practice imaginative play,” she says. “Parents can learn what the milestones should be and work towards them, getting their kids involved in social situations and working to boost skills that are underdeveloped.”
The CDC’s “Learn the Signs. Act Early” website has many useful tools for learning about what milestones are typically observed at various ages, and what parents should do if they observe differences in their child’s development.
“For most children, the earlier we can provide effective intervention, the more successful those interventions are likely to be,” Jones says. By reducing autism symptoms and increasing critical life skills (social interaction, communication, emotional regulation, learning, play), children can begin to thrive. “Some children even show increased IQ scores after receiving successful early treatment,” Jones adds.
Tips for Planning Special Needs Playdates
Helpful ideas to introduce your child to new social experiences.
Playdates are great for both kids and parents. They break up the monotony of the day and add scheduled time for socialization and play. For parents of special needs children, choosing the right playdate can relieve stress and anxiety.
As you begin your planning, remember you know your child better than anyone. If structure and routine are important, be sure to prepare them in advance for the playdate. Consider putting the date on a calendar, and count down the days together. Also, letting them know what to expect once you are there may help to decrease anxiety and prevent any meltdowns from occurring.
The pandemic has definitely put a damper on playdates over the past year, but for those who are still choosing to safely visit with friends and family, here are some tips to make your next playdate a success from Tasha Cleaver, manager of Carter’s Play Place and executive director of Carter’s Crew.
What tips do you have for parents who want to have playdates in their own home, or at a friend's home?
The best playdates include a variety of options. Take the time to find out what the other playmates attending enjoy. The parent(s) will appreciate your thoughtfulness, and it will help the child feel comfortable in your home with a preferred activity. Keep in mind they don't necessarily have to engage in the same activity at the same time. Parallel play, or side-by-side play, is an important step in childhood development. Let the children take the lead. If one wants to paint while the other stacks blocks in the same area, consider that a win!
With warmer weather coming, the outdoor playdate returns! Outdoor playdates are ideal for providing a balance between connecting and social distance. Look for locations that provide outdoor and indoor options that are well maintained and sanitized beyond the standards set by the CDC. Some examples are your backyard, parks, nature preserves, and indoor/outdoor recreational centers. How about an outdoor movie playdate? Or how fun would a photo scavenger hunt at a local park or nature preserve be? SO much fun and great for all ages! Some playmates may get overwhelmed by outdoor sensory stimulation, sensitive to temperatures, or may have access-mobility needs. Reach out to see what everyone needs to make the playdate accessible and comfortable for all.
Are there certain things parents should take into consideration when planning play dates?
The “Golden Rule for a Successful Playdate” is to set the parameters of the playdate along with the other parent(s), and take everyone’s needs into consideration. Setting the time, location, who will attend, whether there will be snacks, if parents will stay or drop off. However, be willing to take the lead! Some parents will likely appreciate the effort on your part and it may strengthen the relationship between adults, too.
Some parents are not quick to return to scheduling in-person playdates as we make our way through the pandemic. If virtual playdates work for your child, offer a virtual option as well as in-person. If you do an at-home, in-person playdate, remember to keep hand sanitizer, cleaning wipes, hand wipes and other supplies readily available.
Local Spotlight: Indigo Hippo
This “creative reuse” center is spreading creativity and empathy — one marker at a time.
Last summer in the midst of a global pandemic, protestors came out en masse calling for an end to systemic racism and police brutality. Cincinnati has been actively involved in the Black Lives Matter movement, with many local businesses stepping up to help the cause.
Indigo Hippo, a nonprofit art supplies store located on Main Street in Over-the-Rhine (OTR) created a “Make-a-Sign” station, offering free poster boards, markers and other sign-making supplies. Southwest Ohio Parent chatted with Indigo Hippo’s interim executive director and co-founder Emily Farison about how this nonprofit came to be, Cincinnati’s creative community, and how art can unify and affect positive change.
Tell us how Indigo Hippo started.
Indigo Hippo opened in 2016 after our founders, a small group of DAAP (University of Cincinnati's College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning) graduates, connected to the model of “Creative Reuse” and realized Cincinnati didn't have any similar resources. The idea of offering creative materials to our community as accessibly as possible while keeping amazing materials from being added to the waste stream became our mission, coupled with the belief that creativity is a powerful way to navigate everything life throws our way.
You describe yourselves as a "creative reuse center" in OTR. What does this mean, and how does this work?
"Creative Reuse" is basically the idea of creatively giving preexisting materials a second life. Of course, people have been reusing materials for centuries in one way or another, but for us, this looks like our art supply thrift store, which operates with a pay-what-you-can model. People who maybe have a few half-full bottles of paint, some leftover fabric or extra wood from artwork or projects can bring us these materials that still have "life" left in them, and trust that someone else will find them and put them to good use in a new way.
What kinds of programs are available to community members, families and kids?
Over the last four years, our programming has changed quite a bit as our capacity has fluctuated. In the past year, we’ve had steady programming at the Cincinnati Art Museum (CAM) for families that focused on personal growth in relation to creativity, which unfortunately got derailed due to COVID-19. However, we have plans in the works with CAM for the fall to offer programming for families and kids centered around Creative Reuse and environmental themes.
Last summer, in response to the Black Lives Matter movement, you set up a free poster making station for protestors. Tell us about that.
We have always done our best to make our storefront a space where everybody feels welcome, no matter who they are, what they look like or whatever circumstances they might be experiencing. As our community raised their voices, we felt the most helpful thing we could do was offer what tangible support we have: art materials. Not only does creativity spread empathy, but if sharing some paper and markers freely with our community could help give voice to those who need to be heard right now, it was the least we could do.
How can the community support you?
There are many ways to support us! We are still operating with limited hours due to the pandemic, but our website (indigohippo.org) has info about signing up for shopping appointments, material donation appointments and volunteer appointments. Monetary donations also go a long way toward keeping us afloat during these uncertain times, and support our ability to continue offering creative materials as accessibly as possible. Sharing our social media with friends and family is also a great way to help us spread the word.
For more information, visit indigohippo.org.
Learning and Thriving Without Labels or Limits
at Summit Academies
For alternative learners and their families, Summit Academies offers a place to grow, build hope and strive for success, through their network of tuition-free public schools located throughout greater Ohio, for students in kindergarten through grade 12.
Offering tailored learning solutions for children with autism and ADHD, Summit Academies’ approach to education is a holistic one. They offer unique programs, such as therapeutic martial arts, where students receive martial arts classes that take place in the school’s Dojo. It’s in this safe space where concepts are made concrete, and the Sensei becomes a role model when students are struggling with their behavior.
The teachers and staff at Summit Academies work closely with parents and students, forming a team to meet each student’s academic, social and emotional needs. Teachers understand that each child learns differently, so they are patient and prepared to use several different methods of teaching in order to provide the best education to each student.
“My son has been bullied and misunderstood his whole life. On his first day at Summit Academy, his mood was totally different,” says Katrina M., a Xenia parent whose son attends Summit Academy Community School for Alternative Learners. “I can't wait to see what's in store for us. I am so grateful for a safe place for him to learn with teachers and staff that have compassion and understanding.”
To learn more about Summit Academies and to enroll in one of their 24 schools in 13 Ohio cities, visit summitacademies.org.
BROUGHT TO YOU BY
Best Friends Forever Thanks to Camp
I met my best friend at summer camp, and indeed, summer camp is the reason our friendship is still alive today. The story goes like this: She was on the top bunk, and I was on the bed beneath hers. Maya forgot to bring a pillow and even though another girl in our cabin had brought two pillows and offered her extra one to anyone who wanted it, Maya was too shy to say anything. Our moms tell us we were 8 and 10 that first year at Camp Cedar Glen, a United Methodist camp in Julian, California.
The majority of Maya’s and my shared memories are of Camp Cedar Glen. Working on elaborate friendship bracelets, carefully choosing when to consume the Caramel Apple Pops Maya’s family provided by way of care packages, sharing observations of counselors, dancing together, and singing loudly. I have great memories of our cabin group taking a moment to turn off our flashlights and check out the stars on our walks back to the cabin after campfire every night. Maya and I weren’t necessarily the camp friends who were inseparable for all activities or meals, but we could read each other like a book and trust the other with our thoughts. Camp was the one time we could count on seeing each other, and each summer we returned to Camp Cedar Glen eager to be reunited and make new memories that would carry us through the school year until the camp season began again. To this day, Maya and
I marvel at how our friendship remained intact, especially during those years that were too early for us to clearly remember. How did we become best friends over the course of those five years spent together at camp? By the time smartphones and other connectional technology had a place in our lives, we were already so firmly cemented as each other’s best friends that it wouldn’t have made a difference. And when I say Maya and I are “best friends” I don’t mean that we were just close the way everyone at camp is a best friend. Maya is my number one and I’m hers.
Simple Tips for Maintaining a LongDistance Friendship
When you find someone at camp you really click with, taking deliberate steps to maintain that connection when you’re home and far away from each other is worth the effort. It can cement a friendship that will stand the test of time and offer an emotional support system like no other.
Here are just a few easy steps you can take to keep the bond strong in your long-distance friendship:
1. Schedule time to talk to one
another. While unavoidable interruptions do occasionally happen, don’t cancel your check-in time unless you absolutely have to. You want to send your friend the message that they matter, not the opposite. 2. Stay connected through
little things. Watch the same movie at the same time. Wear the same goofy T-shirt on the same day.
3. Write your friend an actual letter or a postcard. In an age
when technology has taken over much of our everyday lives, take the time to handwrite something for your best friend that they can add to their collection of BFF keepsakes.
4. Start a book club. Reading a
book together will stimulate your imagination and give you even more to talk about during your many phone calls and video chats.
5. Reminisce about the good
times. Such as the experiences that brought you together in the first place — like camp!
Reprinted from Camping Magazine by permission of the American Camp Association; ©2021 by the American Camping Association, Inc. This article was adapted for length and content. The full article can be read at acacamps.
org/resource-library/campingmagazine/best-friends-foreverthanks-camp
DAY CAMPS
Camp-A-Palooza at Kids First Sports Center
Greater Cincinnati’s most talked about summer camp experience! Why? Four words: Kids First Sports Center… 108,000 square feet of kids sports heaven! Imagine a summer camp taking place in the country’s largest children’s activity center with exceptional instruction in the most popular children’s recreational pursuits: Swimming, Gymnastics, Dance, Trampoline & Tumbling and Soccer! Dates: June 1 - August 20, 2021 • Hours: 7-9am - Before Care. 9am-4pm Camp . 4-6pm - After Care • Ages: 5 - 15 years old 7900 East Kemper Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Julie Halusek, Email: info@ kidfirstsports.com, Phone: (513) 489-7575,
kidsfirstsports.com/camps-events/ camp-a-palooza-camps
Camp Art Academy
Camp Art Academy is an awardwinning, memorable art experience for your camper! Balancing technical instruction with freedom of selfexpression, Camp Art Academy’s curriculum includes fundamental visual art skill building activities, two and three dimensional hands-on experiences, top-notch guest artists and creative problem solving with lots of fun! Dates: June 7-11, June 14-18, June 21-25, July 5-9, July 12-16, July 19-23 • Hours: Full Day 9:00 am - 4:30 pm, Half Day 9:00 am - 12:15 pm OR from 1:15 pm to 4:30 • Ages: 5-12 1212 Jackson Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Contact: Sam Holloway, Email: sholloway@ artacademy.edu, Phone: (513) 562-8762,
artacademy.edu/com-ed/summer-artcamp/summer-art-camp.php
Camp at the J
Presenting Cincinnati’s Best Day Camp as voted by in the 2020 Best of Parenting poll, Camp at the J! We cannot wait for another magical summer filled with memories and friendships that last a lifetime. Campers will be grouped into pods no larger than 12 with all campers and staff required to wear masks when inside the facility while maintaining a social distance. Sign your kids up for a summer to remember with flexible weekly options available. Dates: June 14 - August 6 • Hours: 9:30am - 3:30pm *Extended Care Available • Grades: K - 8 8485 Ridge Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45236, Contact: Anne Goldstein, Phone: 513.722.7241, Email: daycamp@mayersonjcc. org, MayersonJCC.org/Camp
Camp Curiosity at Rockwern Academy
Here comes the sun! Join Rockwern Academy's Early Childhood Education Center for a fun, creative camp for little learners. Our small, nurturing school environment and experienced staff help young children discover new skills, gain confidence, and thrive! Campers will enjoy outdoor water activities, arts and crafts, music, storytime, and more. Camp will operate with the same safety measures that helped to keep our school safe and open during the year. Dates: Session 1: June 7 - 25; Session 2: June 28 - July 16 (no camp July 5); Session 3: July 19 - August 6 • Ages: 18 months - 5 years (entering kindergarten) • Hours: Full day (9:00 AM - 3:00 PM), half day (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM), 3 (MWF) or 5 (M-F) days/week options. After Care may be available, depending on interest. 8401 Montgomery Rd , Cincinnati, OH 45236, Contact: Amber Feldman, Camp Director or Toni Brownell, Director of the Early Childhood Education Center, Email: amfeldman@ rockwernacademy.org or tobrownell@ rockwernacademy.org, Phone: 513-984-3770,
RockwernAcademy.org/Camp
CCM Preparatory
If you’re looking for fun, immersive and interactive summer arts experiences, come to CCM! Attractions include a variety of programs in Music, Dance, and Theatre Arts for students to make friends and explore new skills. At CCM Prep, all students can explore their artistic interests in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Dates: June, July, and August 2021 • Ages: 4 years through Adult 3860 Corbett Center Cincinnati, OH 45221-0236, Phone: 513-556-2595, Email: ccmprep@uc.edu, ccm.uc.edu/prep/
summer
Children’s Meeting House Montessori School Summer Camp
Visit our website to see the Summer Camp Programs CMH has to offer your family this year. Our camps offer a variety of Arts, Crafts, Nature, Science, Drama, and fun activities for children ages 3-12 on our beautiful 7+ acre campus. Camps are led by experienced CMH Staff, who are eager to share their passion for learning and having fun with our campers. Childcare is available after day camp until 5:30pm to accommodate working families. Reserve your space NOW! Dates: June 14th-18th, 21st-25th and July 12th-16th, 19th-23rd, 2021 927 O’Bannonville Rd, Loveland, OH 45140, Phone: 513-683-4757, Email: office@ cmhschool.com, cmhschool.com
Cincinnati Art Museum Summer Camp
Jump into art with eight weeks of exciting art projects, gallery games, and more! Explore a different theme each week with activities taught by skilled educators and museum staff. Designed for children ages 6–12. Convenient before- and after-care available. Registration open! 953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati OH 45202, Phone: (513) 721-2787, Email: CAMsummercamp@cincyart.org,
cincinnatiartmuseum.org/summercamp
Cincinnati Playhouse in Park Summer Theatre Camp and Performance Academy
Join us for a Summer of Play! Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park offers children and introduction to the exciting world of live theatre! Choose from full day, one-week camps and multi-week performance academy programs. Camps for ages 6 to 17 offered at the Playhouse in Mt. Adams and in Mason. Ages: 6-17 Phone: (513) 421-3888, cincyplay.com
Cincinnati Theatre Summer Camp
Whether you’ve never stepped on a stage before, or have already been bitten by the acting bug, our theatre camps are the perfect place to learn some new skills, make some new friends, and have a whole lot of fun! In person programs for students in grade 3-12 who want a fun and challenging stage experience this summer! Learn more online. Dates: June and July 2021 • Grades: 3-12 • Cost: $295/week Cincinnati Shakespeare Company at The Otto M. Budig Theater, 1195 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Phone: 513-381-2273,
cincyshakes.com/summercamp
CRC Summer Day Camp
Cincinnati Recreation Commission offers 10-week summer day camps at 17 of our locations. ODJFS vouchers are accepted at some centers. Specialty camps are available. See website for details. Register online at our website or in person at your nearest center. Camp CRC will follow COVID19 protocols.
Dates: June 7- August 13 • Hours: M-F 7:00am-6:30pm • Ages: 5-12 years old Various locations, Contact: CRC Front Office, Email: info.crc@cincinnati-oh.gov, Phone: 513-352-4000, cincyrec.org
Creative Tots (Mason) Summer Camps
Creative Tots has specialized in private education for over 20 years for children 18 months - 7 years. We focus in the Fine Arts, STEM education and FUN! This year's camp themes include pirates, princesses, under the sea, slime & magic potions, zoo keepers and more! Dates: June and July 2021 • Ages: 18 mos - 7 years 6408 Thornberry Court #110 Mason, OH 45040, Contact: Emilie Parry - Owner/ Administrator, Phone: 513-770-6776, Email: creativetotsmason@gmail.com,
CreativeTotsMason.com
Greenacres Foundation
Summer adventures return for 2021 in our fun and safe day camps! Each program offers its own, unique, way to explore all that Greenacres has to offer. A Greenacres camp will fill your child’s summer with unforgettable experiences and are tailored to be age appropriate. We look forward to hosting your children in one of our programs. See you in June! Dates: June 14 to August 6 • Ages: 5 - 13 8255 Spooky Hollow Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45242, Contact: Katie Brown, Email: camp@ green-acres.org, Phone: (513) 898-3262,
green-acres.org/camps
Greene County Parks & Trails
Are your kids ready for summer? Give them the experience of nature & wonder with one or all of the summer
camp options with Greene County Parks & Trails! Camps include adventures, art, outdoor skills to learning about Sasquatch, all while being immersed in the natural word! There is something for every curious kiddo from ages 2 up to 17 - Find the ideal match today! Dates: June- Mid-August • Hours: Varies • Ages: 2-5, 6-9,10-13,14-17 635 Dayton-Xenia Rd, Xenia, Ohio 45385, Contact: Hanna Lamb, Email: hlamb@ gcparkstrails.com, Phone: (937) 562-6440,
reservations.gcparkstrails.com/ programs
Heritage Village Museum
Our 19th century village is the perfect location for history camp! Campers can travel into the past to experience life during the Civil War or discover what life was like for Native Americans. Campers will learn about history through games, crafts, food, songs, and hands-on activities. Native American interpreters and museum docents in historical clothing will lead some of the activities. Dates: Civil War Camp Jun. 7-11, Native American Camp Jun. 21-25, Immersive History Camp July 12-16 and Aug. 2-6 • Hours: 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. There is a come early/stay late option. Campers can be dropped off as early as 8:00 a.m. and picked up as late as 5:30 p.m. for an additional daily fee of $15 • Ages: Ages 6-12 for Civil War and Native American Camps, Ages 13-15 for Immersive History Camp 11500 Lebanon Road, Sharonville, OH 45241, Contact: Steve Preston, Phone: (513) 563-9484, heritagevillagecincinnati.org/
summer-camp
How to Raise a Young Gentleman
Youth attending this camp acquire etiquette skills, potential to step forward meeting lifelong goals. Those with etiquette training are more likely to carry themselves in social and dining situations confidently. Giving them the tools in a motivational environment that builds self-esteem and desire to present oneself properly in any setting. For details and location, call 888-354-4639. Dates: July 17 & 18, 2021 • Hours: 10:00 am-4:00 pm • Ages: 8 - 15 The Lost Art, LLC, 9378 Mason Montgomery Rd. Suite 237, Mason, OH; Phone: 888-354-4639; email: info@thelostart.net;
thelostart.net
MidPointe Library System is bringing you a season of fun with its annual Summer Reading Program. Pick up a “Tails and Tales” activity map and create your own adventure by completing challenges to win prizes. Families can enjoy activities together, exploring new books or finding fun around the house and in your community. Dates: June 1 – July 31 • Ages: All ages Available at all MidPointe Library System locations (West Chester, Middletown, Liberty Township, Monroe & Trenton), Contact person: Cari Hillman, Phone: 513-424-1251,
MidPointeLibrary.org
Museum Camps at The Cincinnati Museum Center
Explore science, technology, history and the arts through creative activities and games at Cincinnati Museum Center’s fun and educational Museum Camps. Whether there’s a day or a week off from school, there’s a camp for that. Dates: May-August • Hours: 9am-4pm • Ages: 5 to 14 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45203, Contact: Nora Eskridge, Email: information@cincymuseum.org, Phone: (513) 728-0082, cincymuseum.org/museum-
camps/
Snapology of West Chester TWP
At Snapology we understand that children are meant to learn through play! When children are actively engaged in hands-on, interactive learning activities their creativity flourishes and they show a greater interest in school. Snapology engages children using LEGO® bricks, K’Nex & technology, helping your child develop a thirst for knowledge. While the kids are having fun we sneak in the learning!
Dates: 6/7/21 - 7/30/21 • Hours: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm • Ages: 4 to 14 7568 Wyandot Lane, Liberty Twp, OH 45044, Contact: Nicolette Modes, Email: westchestertwp@snapology.com, Phone: (614) 657-7391, westchestertwp.snapology.com
Summertime Spirit Day Camp with Five Seasons and Infinite Cheer
Tumble, Dance and Cheer your way into the summertime sunshine with Infinite Cheer and Five Seasons. Sessions are open to all students in grades K-8. All campers will learn new skills in tumbling, dance, spirit crafts and cheer - with super fun games and a little splish splash fun to keep us cool. All material will be taught by seasoned coaches and is sure to keep your camper entertained and active. Session Dates & Hours: Session 1: June 7 – 11, 12:30 – 4:30pm / Session 2: June 21 – 25, 12:30 – 4:30pm / Session 3: July 7 – 11, 12:30 – 4:30 / Session 4: July 26 – 30, 12:30 – 4:30pm • Hours: 12:30-4:30 • Ages: Grades K-8 11790 Snider Rd, Cincinnati, Ohio 45249, Contact: Jennifer Schlotman, Phone: (513) 275-7585, Email: community@ infinitecheercincy.com, infinitecheercincy.
com
Summer Series for Kids at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum
Join us every Wednesday in June and July for our Summer Series for Kids! These specialized workshops are designed for children between the ages of 5 - 12 and offer entertaining, interactive, and educational experiences about the subjects of art and nature. These programs are free to members or can be paid for through general park admission. Most classes have a cap of 30 -50 students. Dates: Every Wednesday in June and July • Hours: 12pm - 1pm • Ages: 5 - 12
1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton, OH 45013, Contact: Gabi Roach, Email: groach@ pyramidhill.org, Phone: (513) 868-8336,
pyramidhill.org
Taft Museum of Art Summer Art Camp
Whether your child is thinking about becoming an artist or just likes to have fun making art, our small classes and safe, hands-on activities with experienced teachers will make this a summer of fun. Plus campers will also get to explore a hybrid of experiences thanks to the great art the Cincinnati area has to offer including right here at the Taft. Dates: Students entering grades 1–3: May 31–June 4 or June 7–11, Students entering grades 4–6: June 14–18 or June 21–25, Students entering grades 7–12 : June 28–July 2 • Hours: 9 a.m.–4 p.m. • Ages: Students entering grades 1–3, 4–6, 7–12 316 Pike Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Email: education@taftmuseum.org,
taftmuseum.org/families-children/ summer-camp
The Summit Country Day Summer Camp
The Summit Country Day School welcomes students from the tri-state area to enjoy summer in-person on our Hyde Park campus. With programs for children ages 3-grade 12, parents can take comfort knowing that your child is exploring their curious nature, enjoying time with friends and exploring a new topic or hobby. Both full-day and half-day camps are available. Registration opens February 1, 2021. Dates: June 1 to August 6 2161 Grandin Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45230, Phone: (513) 871-4700, summitcds.org/
programs/summit-summer
TriHealth Fitness & Health Pavilion: 2021 Summer Camps
This summer, bring your kids to the TriHealth Fitness & Health Pavilion for sports galore & more. We keep your kids active all summer with our variety of uniquely themed-camp for kids ages five & up. Take advantage of our latest offers this summer & give your child a great camp experience. Enroll by May 1st to receive Special Discounts. Camps are filling up at the Pavilion. Enroll Now! Dates: June 7- August 6 • Hours: 7:30 a.m.- 6 p.m. • Ages: 5-14 6200 Pfeiffer Raod, Montgomery, OH 45242, Contact: LaShaunda Jones, Email: lashaunda_jones@trihealth.com, Phone: (513) 246-2647, trihealth.com/
hospitals-and-practices/trihealth-fitnessand-health-pavilion/kids-programs/ kids-classes-and-camps
YMCA of Greater Cincinnati Summer Day Camps
Overnight, day and specialty camps at the Y are all about discovery. Kids have the opportunity to explore nature, find new talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting friendships and memories. And, of course, it's fun too! (Themed Day Camps, Preschool Camps, Teen Camps, Counselor-in-Training programs, and more). Dates: Camps run May through August; dates for each camp are available on the website • Ages: 3-15 • Cost: Cost varies depending on each camp. Pricing and camp brochures are available online 12 locations throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, Phone: 513-362YMCA, myY.org/camp
YMCA of Greater Dayton & Surrounding Communities
Developmentally appropriate skills based trip and travel program, the YMCA places an emphasis on equity and the core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, which is the basis of our camp culture. Make new friends, learn new skills, be safe, and have fun! Campers will participate in outdoor activities, swimming, sports, arts & crafts, games, field trips, and summer adventures.
Dates: June, July, August • Hours: 9:00-4:00 and Extended Care Available 6:30-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM • Ages: Completed Kindergarten (5) - Age 14 Contact: Valerie Holland, Email: vholland@ daytonymca.org, Phone: (937) 866-9622,
daytonymca.org/programs/child-careprograms/summer-day-camp
X-treme HorsePower Camp at Heavenward Farm
Enjoy the outdoors and learn about horses and riding! Horse care, Riding Instruction, Trail Rides, Crafts, Boating, Fishing, Games and Biblical life lessons are all packed into this fun and meaningful camp experience. Limited enrollment, so REGISTER online NOW. Dates: Week 1: June 28-July 2, Week 2: July 26-30 • Hours: 9:00am-2:30pm • Ages: 8-14 • Special Needs Offered: High-functioning Autism, Hearingimpaired, Anxiety 7084 Ludlum Rd., Morrow, OH 45152, Contact: Carole Bower, Email: admin@ heavenwardfarm.org, Phone: (513) 289-9434, heavenwardfarm.org Recognized throughout the midwest as Ohio’s premier summer camp since 1959. Beautiful lakefront setting, talented experienced staff and wide variety of activities. Campers choose own schedules within general framework. Most of all it’s great fun! Special intro for 6-9 year olds. ACA accredited. At Falcon, good things happen by design. Dates: June 20 - August 14 in various session lengths • Hours: 9am-4pm • Ages: 6-16 • Gender of Campers: Boys and girls daily activities separate with planned co-ed activities 4251 Delta Rd SW, Carrollton, OH 44615, Contact: Dave Devey, Email: dave@ falconcamp.com, Phone: (216) 991-2489,
falconcamp.com
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