0615 cp issuu

Cincinnati

PARENT

J UN E 2015 // FREE

Serving Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky Parents

SUMMER LEARNING LOSS

PREVENTING A BACKSLIDE IN ACADEMIC SKILLS

FAIRS, FESTS & FEASTS GUIDE

SNEAKING IN

FITNESS

SIMPLE TRICKS TO ADD MORE MOTION IN YOUR KIDS’ DAY

TEN CINCY ANNUAL SUMMER PROGRAM GUIDE

"MUST DO"

SUMMER ACTIVITIES DON’T LET SUMMER PASS

BY WITHOUT THEM!

THE BEACH WATERPARK:

NOW OPEN!

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312.401.5850

hollyburkholder.com

Specializing in custom designed newborn and child photography Serving Dayton to Cincinnati

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Specializing in newborns, babies, children, seniors and family

513.759.5200

Specializing in children and family portraits

513.806.7004

childrensgardenphoto.coM

imagesbycoreen.net

Specializing in family, newborn and wedding photography

Specializing in maternity, newborn, children and family photography on location or in your home

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melissajoyphotography.net

christinajanephoto.com

simperexpressions.zenfolio.com

Award Winning Photographer for all your Photography Needs

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Specializing in child, lifestyle family and lifestyle newborn photography

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Shadyphotography.com

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CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // JUNE 2015

513.528.3448

hezlepphotography.com

513.478.1724 annegregoirephotography.com

I N E V E RY ISS U E

CONTENTS J U N E 2 0 1 5 // CI N CI N N ATIPAR E N T . CO M

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18

C O M M E N TA R Y & PA R E N T I N G

12

A DAD INFLUENCE

Why “Dad Taxi” is not a successful business model

20

FOOTNOTES: THOUGHTS FROM THE MARGINS OF A MOM’S LIFE

The advisor

36

ASK THE TEACHER Summer reading, trip tips and faded friendships

14

C H I LD R E N ’S H E A LT H

21

ACCIDENTAL POISONING How to make your home safe

40

GROW I N G H E A LT H Y FAMILIES

29

FIRST TIME DADS Don’t worry – you got this!

IN THIS ISSUE

14

IN EVERY ISSUE

TEN CINCY “MUST DO” SUMMER ACTIVITIES Don’t let summer pass by without them!

18

04

SUMMER LEARNING LOSS

06

EDITOR’S NOTE

08

COMMUNIT Y SPOTLIGHT

10

ONLINE BUZZ

Preventing a backslide in academic skills

22

PL AYDATES GONE BAD

24

FAIRS, FESTS AND FEASTS

26

SNEAKING IN FITNESS

40

AVOIDING SUMMERTIME INJURIES

Tips for handling a visit that unexpectedly goes south

Your summer 2015 celebration guide!

Simple tricks to add more motion in your kids’ day

Safety tips every parent must know

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // JUNE 2015

RESOURCES & CALENDARS

30

SUMMER PROGRAM GUIDE

38

PRESCHOOL & EDUCATION GUIDE

42

DAILY EVENTS

46

ONGOING EVENTS

47

FUN & WACK Y CALENDAR

E DITOR ' S N OT E PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2015 Silver Award Winner General Excellence Awards Competition

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2015 Silver Award Winner Editorial Awards Competition

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2015 Silver Award Winner Design Awards Competition

MEET THE STAFF Publisher Mary Wynne Cox • mary@cincinnatiparent.com EDITOR Susan Bryant • susan@cincinnatiparent.com MARKETING // CREATIV E D I R E C TO R Katie Clark • katie@cincinnatiparent.com SALES DIRECTOR // EVENTS COORDINATOR Jennifer Baum • jennifer@cincinnatiparent.com ACCOUNT EXECU T I V E S Charity Kirtley • charity@cincinnatiparent.com Katy Mark • katy@cincinnatiparent.com Melissa Wittenbaum • melissa@cincinnatiparent.com

School’s Out!

T

hat’s a phrase bound to set off a reaction at your house.

After months of homework, projects and tests, finally your student (and you!) can enjoy a reprieve from the rigid schedule of the school year. On the last day, you can almost hear a collective sigh emanating from every parent and child.

So how do you celebrate the start of this most anticipated time of year? We suggest taking a look at our Ten Cincy “Must Do” Summer Activities list and our Fairs, Fests and Feasts guide for some ideas to kick off the season right.

There’s so much our area offers kids and families, your only dilemma may be wondering how you can squeeze it all in.

(And for some tips on how to work in a little exercise into your kids’ lazy days of summer, check out our article Sneaking in Fitness.)

As much as summer provides the rest and relaxation we all need from the school year, having our kids take a complete hiatus from academics can

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CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // JUNE 2015

A dvertising Coordinator Karen Ring • karen@cincinnatiparent.com

make their transition back to class in the fall a rocky one. Get some suggestions for exercising your children’s mental muscle this break by reading Summer Learning Loss – it’s not as hard as you might think to incorporate a little reading and math practice into their day.

Our resident teacher has some great advice too for keeping skills sharp in Ask the Teacher. Have a specific question you’d like answered by her?

Send her an email!

This month we also want to give a shout out to all the great dads in our area and wish them a very special Father’s Day! We hope it’s filled with barbeques, baseball, long naps or whatever else represents the perfect day for you.

Happy summer everyone!

We hope you enjoy every minute of it!

COMMUNITY Outreach // Social Media Sarah McCosham • sarah@cincinnatiparent.com

WEB EDITO R Wendy Cox • wendy@cincinnatiparent.com GR APHICS ASSIS TA N T Maria Tancredi • maria@cincinnatiparent.com INTERN Meg Wynne • meg@cincinnatiparent.com Business Manager // Accounting Roxanne Burns • roxanne@cincinnatiparent.com CONTRIBUTING W R I T E R S Summer Daily, Michelle Shirk, Dr. Emma Hostetter, Emily Ungar, Lauren Lawson, Sarah McCosham, Pete Gilbert, Deb Krupowicz, Kelly Blewett, Sarah Painer of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital CALENDAR OF EV E N T S calendar@cincinnatiparent.com Contact U s 9435 Waterstone Blvd., Ste. 140, Cincinnati, OH 45249 P: (513) 444-2015 • F: (513) 444-2099

COPYRIGHT

E DITOR

Cincinnati Parent Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2015 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. For information on subscriptions, editorial guidelines, advertising rates and more visit www.cincinnatiparent.com.

I N E V E RY ISS U E

COMMUNITY

SPOTLIGHT WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN JUNE

Come See the New Washington Park With a splash park, dog park, weekly concerts, movies and events, Washington Park is the place to spend summers in Cincinnati. On Sundays from May 31 through August 30, bring the family down for OTR Performs, which features a free outdoor performance from 6-8 pm every Sunday night. On June 20, check out The City Flea, a massive flea market in Washington Park complete with food and drinks from local vendors.

Both events are free with a parking garage located under the park (entrances off Race and Elm Streets) providing easy access.

Washington Park, 1230 Elm St, Cincinnati http://washingtonpark.org/

Challenge Your GamingObsessed Teen Teens will love EnterTRAINment Junction’s newly opened “Escape the Room Challenge” – a simulated adventure in which a group has one hour to problem-solve a series of clues, puzzles and mental challenges, all while encountering a few red herrings along the way! The cost is $28 per participant, and reservations are required. This activity is open year-round from 10 am -9 pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

EnterTrainment Junction, 7379 Squire Ct., West Chester Township www.escapetheroomchallenge.com

Enjoy Local Theatre Pack a dinner and head to the Blue Ash Amphitheatre for an outdoor performance of Bye Bye Birdie. This show is presented by the East Side Players, a group of local, theatre-loving artists of all ages. Tickets are $9 and parking is free. Performances happen nightly at 7:30 pm from June 4-7 and 10-13.

Cincinnati Super Squad The Cincinnati Super Squad Thrill-a-Minute Book-of-Fun is an activity book that follows a group of young superheroes as they protect Cincinnati and promote the power of positivity. Children of all ages can enjoy this activity book designed

by ArtWorks youth Apprentices. The book features word searches, puzzles, games and other activities highlighting locations in and around Cincinnati. For every book sold, one book is given to a child at the Ronald McDonald House.

Blue Ash Amphitheatre, 4433 Cooper Road, Cincinnati www.esptheater.org/bye-bye-birdie.php

Pick one up for $8.99 at Heterotopia, Joseph Beth Booksellers in Rookwood Pavilion and several locations in Over the Rhine. www.artworkscincinnati.org/event/creative-enterprise- activity-book-dedication/

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Getta Yourself Some Goetta Goetta – the spicy, porky, sausagey patty popular (only) in Cincinnati – has an entire festival in its honor. Come down to Covington’s MainStrasse Village for Goettafest, where you can enjoy Goetta Reubens and Pappa John’s Goetta Pizza. Admission is free and the event runs June 19-21.

MainStrausse Village, 406 W. 6th St. #201, Covington www.goetta.com/en/goettafest/

Be a Star Gazer Slip n’ Slide through the City On June 20, downtown Cincinnati becomes a huge Slip n’ Slide during “Slide the City.” Event organizers set up 1,000-plus feet of padded vinyl to transform our city into one giant party, inviting people to get outside, have fun and connect with their community. Kids over 5 are welcome; participants must bring or buy an inflatable tube for the ride. Single, triple and unlimited ride tickets are available, with a proceed of ticket sales benefitting a local charity.

Located on Jefferson Avenue between W Correy Street and W. University Avenues.

Drake Planetarium offers many summer programs, but “Skies Over Cincinnati” is a must for any local, starloving Cincinnatian. This interactive, educational program allows visitors to get an overview of what can be seen in the sky above Greater Cincinnati, including the sun, moon, stars and constellations. The program takes place June 6 and June 20 at 2 pm. Tickets are $8 each and reservations are required.

Drake Planetarium and Science Center; 2020 Sherman Ave, Norwood www.drakescience.org

www.slidethecity.com/events/cincinnati/

Adopt A Book Adopt A Book, a local nonprofit operated by local 12 year old twins Hannah and Alexander Laman, collects, donates and distributes books across the Tristate. In fact, Cincinnati Parent recently donated 150 new books to the cause! Join Adopt a Book on Saturday, June 20 for the United Way Day of Action Centennial Celebration on the Purple People Bridge. Each child is invited to bring 1-3 gently used books to swap, so that all Cincinnati kids have the chance to freshen up their libraries for summer reading. The first 100 kids to get their passport stamped at every booth will receive a complimentary book from the swap. www.facebook.com/Adoptabookohio

Stock Up for Summer Reading!

Head down to Fountain Square for the annual Used Book Sale, hosted by the Friends of the Public Library.

With thousands of titles to choose from, and prices ranging from $1-$4, there’s sure to be something for every reader. The sale runs May 30 – June 5, with a $10 bag sale happening on the final day!

Fountain Square, Vine Street, Cincinnati http://friends.cincinnatilibrary.org/booksales.html

JUNE 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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I N E V E RY ISS U E

ONLINE

BUZZ

JUNE’S facebook & weekly e-newsletter contests

FACEBOOK TALK WE ASKED:

Do you have a favorite vacation destination, within 250 miles of Cincy?

Tickets to The Beach Waterpark!

YOU SAID:

We like staying at Great Wolf Lodge then going to Kings Island.

– Brittany T. Hocking Hills! – Michelle H. Is Mammoth Cave in KY too far? – Alice R. Brown County, Indiana! We’ve been twice in the last year. – Kayla R.

Tickets to the Vectren Dayton Air Show!

Gatlinburg – Heather B. We like to camp at Wapakoneta KOA, just 1.5 hours north on 75.

Great amenities! – Cathy L. Frenchlick Resort in Indiana! – Shari B. Nashville, Indiana – Sara T. Lakeside Chautauqua, Ohio – Emily N. Lake Cumberland! – Katie C.

Tickets to Krohn Conservatory’s Butterfly Show

Michigan City, IN or Cedar Point/Lake Erie Islands – Dara E.

“ L ike ” us on

F acebook to J oin the C onversation

Over 18,575 fans and counting...

FIND US ONLINE

FACEBOOK // cincinnatiparent TWITTER // @cincyparent 10

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // JUNE 2015

Sign up for your FREE Cincinnati Parent Weekly E-newsletter, featuring upcoming news, weekend events & exciting contests!

Go to CincinnatiParent.com today!

2015 Kings Island Tickets

JUNE 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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CO M M E NTARY & PARE N TING

A Dad Influence Why “Dad Taxi” is Not a Successful Business Model Pete Gilbert

Have you heard about Uber and Lyft? They’re kind of like taxi services except the drivers are average joes like you and me, who use their regular car, instead of taxis, to drive people around. I have a friend who drives for Lyft. He seems to like it, makes extra cash and meets new people all at the same time. While I was listening to him talk about it, I thought it seemed like a cool idea. But, since I’m a stay-at-home dad, in order for me to be a driver for Lyft, I’d have to take my kids along with me while I picked people up and took them to their destinations.

I immediately saw all the potential problems this could create.

First, the rider would have to choose very carefully where they sat. He or she could ride shotgun next to me, which would involve sitting on piles of unopened mail, Target receipts, wrappers from suckers the bank hands out and other assorted items in my “mobile office.” If that seat wasn’t desirable, he or she could choose whether to ride in the captain’s seat next to the Blonde Bomber (my daughter), or sit in the third row on sticky sucker sticks and Cheerios between Middle Man (my son) and First Born (my other daughter.)

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If I were a passenger and these were my only choices, I’d ask to sit on the roof rack.

Not only would seating be an issue, there would also be some detours along the way. In addition to having riders sit in the carpool line for preschool drop-off and pickup, I’m certain at least once daily there would be an emergency potty stop, where we would have to deviate from our route to find the nearest grocery store or gas station bathroom.

Many Uber and Lyft drivers let the passengers choose the music during the drive. This would ABSOLUTELY NOT be the case in my van. All passengers would be subject to watching and listening to DVDs such as Rio 2 and Frozen over and over. The only exception to this rule would be if my kids were napping, then there would be the need for absolute silence the entire drive.

Well, it’s pretty obvious being a chauffeur is not in my immediate future, unless instead of offering bottles of water and mints to customers like many Lyft drivers do, I offered my passengers noise-canceling headphones and hazmat suits.

For links to all my blog posts please stop by my Facebook page at Facebook.com/adadinfluence and check out my all new page on the Cincinnati Parent web site (formerly True Confessions of a Stay at Home Dad).

What’s the best way to spend Father’s Day? Our readers weigh in!

Kings Island Reds game A stroll in Eden Park

The Newport Aquarium

Golfing

Krohn Conservatory The Beach Waterpark Dave and

Buster’s

The Cincinnati Zoo

Fishing with the family swimming sharon woods Napping

Hiking at the Cincinnati Nature Center

Grilling out at home

A picnic on the river Riding bikes

BB Riverboat cruise Downtown

and Carew Tower

Big back yard BBQ

Camping at Stonelick or Paint Creek Coney

Island washington park

walking trails at glenwood gardens Burlington Flea Market JUNE 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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Ten Cincy

Lauren Lawson

“Must Do”

Summer Activities

Don ’ t l e t summe r pa s s b y w it hou t t he m!

S

weet summertime.

The sun is shining, the birds are chirping and your kids won’t stop asking “What are we doing today?” Don’t sweat it, we’ve collected a list of some of the best can’t miss summer activities designed to keep the whole family happy!

1. Cincinnati Zoo and

Botanical Garden

The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is a spectacular place to visit during the summer months. From the extensive wildlife to the gorgeous grounds, the Cincinnati Zoo is a magical family outing. Ride the train to view animals from a different angle and wave hello to the roaming peacocks that proudly strut their stuff. Lines can be long in the summer, so make sure to start your visit early in the morning!

14

4. Stargaze at Stonelick

State Park

Spend the night under the stars with the Cincinnati Observatory. Fellow astronomers and their families are invited to Stonelick State Park to view planets, star clusters and galaxies through a telescope. This far-out event begins at dusk on June 13 and 20, weather permitting.

2. Reds Game Batter up! Watching a Reds game at the Great American Ball Park is a true summer rite of passage. Grab a hot dog and see the home team compete against some of the best in MLB. Tickets can be purchased at www.StubHub. com.

3. Carew Tower

Observation Deck

See the Queen City in the golden light of summer by visiting the Carew Tower Observation Deck. Located in the heart of downtown, this high rise stands 49 floors tall and offers one of the best panoramic views of the city.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // JUNE 2015

5. Woodland Mound

Wetland Adventure

Located within the forested retreat of Woodland Mound, this playground features a 16-foot slide and a variety of animal figures that spray water.

A toddler play area also provides small- er water attractions.

Kids will love this water park and parents will love the gorgeous view of the Ohio River Valley.

6. Interactive Water Park Nestled amongst the city’s skyscrapers, the Interactive Water Park in Washington Park is the essence of cool.

With a 7,000 square foot water feature, including 130 pop-up jets synchronized to music and lights, this water park is a great place for families looking to beat the heat.

7. Visit Graeter’s Let’s hope the most

perplexing dilemma you have this summer is: raspberry chip or buckeye blitz? Even though ice cream is a year round treat, the summer feels incomplete without a visit to Graeter’s.

With a variety of flavors that house gigantic fudge chips, Graeter’s is a must-eat activity.

*Continued on page 16

9. One-Day Sunday,

Family Fun Day

8. Newport Aquarium Rainy day? Spend it at the Newport Aquarium. Located at Newport on the Levee, the Newport Aquarium offers visitors the chance to explore over 70 exhibits and thousands of animals from around the world. Guests can meet a penguin or even walk across Shark Bridge, suspended inches above two dozen sharks, during their visit.

Enjoy the great outdoors at One-Day Sunday, Family Fun Day! This event is open to families in the Jewish Community and takes place at Camp Livingston, in nearby Bennington, Indiana on June 7 from 11am to 4 pm.

A giant waterslide, a foam dance pit, kayaking and zip lining means families will spend their Sunday bonding over fun activities.

Sponsored by Shalom Family, this is a free event with lunch and snacks included.

10.

Findlay Market

The Findlay Market is the place to be on a summer weekend. With both outdoor and indoor vendors, the accessibility to fresh, delicious food options makes this a one-stop shop. Grab a loaf from Blue Oven Bakery, a fresh

(hormone–free) chicken from Lunken’s and then a coffee at Urbana. Don’t forget a bouquet of flowers or some perennials for the garden. With the sun shining and background music playing, Findlay Market is like a summer block party every weekend.

With only 95 days of summer, make the most of it with all the Cincinnati area fun you can squeeze in!

*Photo Credit (top left): The Newport Aquarium

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Summer Learning Loss Preventing a backslide in academic skills Emily Ungar

T

Taking advantage of all that your local library has to offer is a great place to start. “Every child should feel at home in the public library,” says Summer Tyler, co-creator of Everyday Games, a program designed to increase literacy. “Allow the child time to select the books that he wants to read. Sign up for the summer reading program. Programs are usually created with fun activities and ways to measure your child’s reading progress.”

he last day of school is an event every kid (and many parents) can hardly wait for – finally a break from the tests, homework and projects that dominate our daily schedules.

Unfortunately, viewing summer vacation as a complete respite from academia can result in significant catch up work when the next school year begins. Having so much time outside the classroom can chip away at the skills kids have worked so hard to build all year long. What can parents do to help their student hit the ground running in the fall?

LOSING GROUND “Every parent wants to see their child do well in school, and summer plays an important role in boosting achievement year round,” says Katie Willse, Chief Program Officer at the National Summer Learning Association (NSLA). She says students often lose significant progress made in essential math and reading skills during the summer months. And according to a study by the Progress of Education Reform, low-income youth are at even greater risk of losing skills; the report cites that over two months of reading achievement can be lost for this population while middle-class peers are often making small steps ahead in these areas.

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Count on m ath pr actice

The need to read “Reading is important for all ages, but is especially critical for early learners leading up to fourth grade,” says Willse.

Daily reading is essential and should include both silent reading and reading aloud. Brandi Steagall, a certified reading specialist as well as the owner of Nia Educational Services which provides literacy consulting services and tutoring, says, “A child has to read every day throughout the summer. Reading with a child daily for 20 minutes can make a significant impact not only on reading comprehension but also on vocabulary development.”

Children with weak math skills are especially vulnerable to a backslide in the progress they’ve made during the school year. “Students that were already reading or performing math below grade level often lose the most skills and many never recover,” says Tyler.

Incorporating math practice into your child’s daily schedule may be a little more difficult than doing the same for reading skills, but is just as important. Steagall recommends web sites such as CoolMath.com or CoolMath4Kids.com which allow children to practice math skills with fun activities. If a child struggled in his or her math classes throughout the school year, investing in private tutoring lessons over the summer may be a wise investment.

Now Enrolling for Fall!

o

GARDEN MONTESSORI SCHOOL

o

oo

Everyday skill boosters

o oo

Parents and caregivers can help students keep their math and reading abilities sharp by providing everyday opportunities to use them.

A trip to the grocery store can involve counting, sorting and calculations with money.

Reading a book and comparing it to its film version encourages critical thinking. Keeping a journal or scrapbook about summer vacation promotes writing. Steagall suggests, “Connect your activities with a book. A beach vacation is an opportunity to read about fish in the ocean, a biography of Jacques Cousteau or a fictional book about kids helping the dolphins. If you’re camping, have your child read the signs on the trails or track your hiking progress on a map.”

Call for a tour of our school!

“Where Young Minds Grow!”

Preschool, Kindergarten & Full Day Care

o

Open 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Ages 3-5

(513)474-4933

1318 Nagel Road • Cincinnati, Ohio 45255

gardenmontessorischool.com

By finding creative ways for your children to practice math and reading skills in their daily life, and taking advantage of educational programs offered in your community, you can avoid a lapse in learning and give your kids the tools to begin their next school year with confidence.

JUNE 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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COM M E NTARY & PARE N TING

Footnotes T houghts from the margins of a mom’s life The Advisor Kelly Blewett

Sometimes a little advice can be a good thing. Other times, it’s a real headache.

I’ve been thinking about the topic recently as my four-year old has appointed himself the advisor of my two-year-old. His recommendations are sometimes thinly-veiled orders, as in “I think you should follow me, Caroline!”

Other times, his sage guidance reflects the perspective of someone who has been there. “Don’t give the dog your toast Caroline. Mommy will get mad.”

But the most dangerous kind of advice,

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the kind that gives me a headache, is when he teaches my little girl how to do something I really wish she didn’t know how to do. For example, last week he taught her how to climb out of her crib.

“Put your foot here, Caroline!” William says, with great enthusiasm. “That’s good. You’re almost there! Put your other leg up.” I process the monologue through a drowsy cloud, dimly aware that William is in his sister’s room. I am more conscious of the fact that it is so early the windows are still dark. I am blithely unaware of what is to come.

“Push over, Caroline! Put your feet there!” Cheering erupts from the bedroom across the hall. Caroline has successfully made it out of the crib.

She’s free! Children run into our bedroom with wide smiles and clapping hands. I groan and put my face back into the pillow, knowing that bedtime was about to get complicated.

As suspected, Caroline didn’t need her advisor’s move-by-move instructions for very long. She quickly became adept at placing her feet high up on the crib’s edge and heaving herself back to land. Last night she reappeared upwards of eight times after her bedtime. I could hear William giggling in his room as I walked his sister, once again, back to her crib. Because herein lies the problem: the girl can get out of the bed, but she can’t get back into the bed. Why didn’t the advisor teach her that, I ask you?

This weekend we’re transitioning Caroline to a big-girl bed, and we will start giving her some advice of our own.

“Once you’re in your room for the night, stay there.” I have a feeling our advice will not be greeted with cheers, unlike the advice of her brother. Still, on the whole, I’m glad my little girl has an advisor who, at only four years old, can help her achieve things beyond her wildest dreams.

BRANDED CONTENT

Accidental Poisoning How to make your home safe Premier Health More than 90 percent of poisonings happen at home, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The American Association of Poison Control Centers says about half of the calls that poison centers receive involve children younger than age six.

Medications, cleaning supplies, antifreeze, paint thinners, gasoline, pesticides and alcohol are among the items best kept locked up and/or away from children for their own safety. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Family Physicians suggest the following recommendations to make your home safe:

Bathroom • Put medicines in containers with safety caps and store all medicines in a locked cabinet.

• Keep toothpaste, soap, shampoo and other everyday items in a different place from dangerous products.

• Take your medicine out of sight so children don’t try to copy you. Don’t call medicine candy which can be confusing to children.

• Check the label each time before giving medicine to ensure the right amount is given, especially in the middle of the night.

• Dispose of extra or expired medicines. Find a drug collection program in your area instead of flushing medicines down the toilet or pouring them down the drain which can contaminate the water supply.

Garage/Basement • Put paint, paint thinners, pesticides, fertilizers and similar items in a locked cabinet so children can’t get into them.

• Check coal, kerosene and wood appliances to make sure they are operating correctly.

Kitchen • Lock cabinets that contain medicines, cleaners, furniture polish, lye, dishwashing soap and other dangerous products.

• Use a safety lock/latch when you keep any of these poisonous items under your sink.

Whole house • Install carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms and check them frequently to make sure they are working properly. Your local fire department can recommend how many devices your house requires and the best places to put them.

For more information on preventing accidental poisoning in your home, talk with your doctor or visit Premier Health to find a physician.

JUNE 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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P L AY DAT E S

GONE BAD Tips for handling a visit that unexpectedly goes south Summer Daily

W

ho hasn’t experienced a playdate they thought would never end? Maybe your son’s pal from school has arrived for the afternoon and views your home as a new jungle gym to be conquered. Or your daughter’s little friend has no problem backtalking and challenging any comment you make (a trait your daughter seems to be admiring.) Sometimes the little offender has an impressive range of profanity worked into their dialogue. The worst visits however, seem to end in actual casualties, like bruises and stitches.

Many parents have experienced the playdate gone terribly awry before.

Whether you are the one in charge or the one whose child came home from the fray, it can be easy to overreact, point fingers and increase the intensity of the situation. But there are better ways to handle these types of incidents.

Dr. David T. Smith, the Senior Director of Psychology at LifeWay Counseling Centers, has some tips on how to be ready for the next time you have to handle one of these sticky situations.

Don’t overreact It can be difficult to keep your emotions in check when a child you’re hosting misbehaves during a playdate – or if you feel your child has been treated poorly at someone else’s house. Dr. Smith says parents can naturally feel upset, even appalled, and kick in with a sense of wanting to protect their child.

It’s important however, to remain calm and not get emotionally charged in a situation before hearing the whole story.

Really listen Instead, the first thing parents should do is listen. “I think it’s good to get all the facts, because sometimes you can quickly make the assumption that your child would not have had a role in whatever happened. But gathering a little bit of information makes you a wise parent,” advises Smith. Kids often fabricate or exaggerate events, so it’s important to get every side of the story from those who were involved. Reserve judgment for as long as possible until you can figure out the truest version of events.

Redirect back to better behavior After listening to everyone involved and figuring out what really happened, take the opportunity to enforce your rules and values with your own kids and explain to your guest about how things are done differently in your home. If the problem was inappropriate language or mean behavior from your young visitor, tell them that your family doesn’t say those words or treat people that way.

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Explain that if they are going to come to your house again, they will have to respect your rules.

Think carefully about talking to the other parent “I think deciding when to tell the other child’s parents needs some discernment,” says Dr. Smith. Ask yourself how important this transgression really was. If a child misbehaved at your house, is it something to an extent that his parent would need to be aware of it? If your child had a bad experience at someone else’s home, is it small enough for you to just let go?

Consider carefully the possible aftermath of deciding to make an issue of whatever happened.

Be up front If you would like to have future playdates with this child, or a valuable friendship with the other parent may be jeopardized, you’ll have to bring the issue up tactfully. “You don’t just want to drop it. As hard as it is, be honest and just share with them any issues you may have had,” says Dr. Smith.

Remember that playdates gone bad can actually provide an opportunity for your children to learn about another type of family, their values and their situation. All of this information provides teachable moments to pass on to your own kids – who will hopefully be invited to many playdates of their own.

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Fairs, Fests and FeAsTS Your summer 2015 celebration guide!

Sarah McCosham

It just isn’t summer without festivals – the rides, the games, the funnel cakes! From Memorial Day to Labor Day, there’s guaranteed to be an event made just for you.

Jot down the date of your “can’t miss” festival from our list here!

Church Festival Faves

Attend an Outdoor Music Show

[www.stgertrude.org/festival]

If you’re into music, mark your calendar for the Bunbury Music Festival, Cincinnati’s three-day music event. This year’s festival features The Black Keys, The Avett Brothers and Snoop Dog, and takes place June 5-7 at Sawyer Point / Yeatman’s Cove. Tickets can be purchased for individual days or the entire weekend, and a full lineup of artists can be found on the Bunbury Festival website. [www.bunburyfestival.com]

Celebrate Cincinnati Cuisine It doesn’t get more “Cincinnati” that goetta.

Come to a festival designed to honor this Queen City delicacy. Goettafest 2015 runs June 19-21 in Covington’s MainStrasse Village, and features the spicy, savory breakfast food in its authentic form, as well as in pizza and Reuben sandwiches. Free admission and free street parking available. [www.mainstrasse.org]

Enjoy the Arts

Madeira’s St. Gertrude Festival is a local favorite, featuring over 60 booths and rides, nightly entertainment and even a “reverse raffle” where patrons can enter to win a year’s tuition at the school. This year’s event takes place the weekend of June 12-14.

St. Rita School for the Deaf’s annual festival takes place July 10-12 and celebrates the school’s 100th anniversary with special games and a raffle for a new car! [www.srsdeaf.org]

The Best of the East Frontier Days in Milford has it all: games, a parade, carnival rides and even a spaghettieating contest! Come June 4-7 and see the festival Cincy Magazine voted the “Best of the East” in 2014. [www.frontierdaysmilford.com]

Classic Fairs August 5-9, come celebrate the Hamilton County Fair’s 160th anniversary!

With livestock demonstrations, car shows, competitions, food and rides, there’s something for everyone at the fair.

Admission is $5, with an additional $5 parking fee.

The Cincinnati Fringe Festival is eleven days of performances, art, film, music and everything in between. This year’s festival takes place May 26-June 6, and individual show tickets or festival passes are available. Check the full schedule on the event’s website.

If you’re up for a road trip, consider heading up 1-71 to the Ohio State Fair, which takes place July 29-August 9 and is easily Ohio’s biggest fair of the year.

[www.cincyfringe.com/performance]

[www.ohiostatefair.com]

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[www.hamiltoncountyfair.com]

A Uniquely Cincinnati Celebration Did you know that Cincinnati is the paddling capital of the United States? Each year, Paddlefest draws over 2,200 paddlers for their annual trek down the Ohio River, making this the largest canoe/kayak paddling event in the Midwest. Paddlefest is a fun-filled family weekend from June 18-20 with a kids’ outdoor expo, music festival and river race. The events take place at Coney Island, with the river race ending at Cincinnati Public Landing

by Sawyer Point. [www.ohioriverpaddlefest.org]

Zinzinnati Pride No Cincinnati festival guide would be complete without a nod to Octoberfest!

This is America’s largest Oktoberfest, complete with German food, live music, dancing and so much more. This year’s event takes place September 18-20 in downtown Cincinnati on Fifth Street.

Mark your calendar! [www.oktoberfestzinzinnati.com]

There’s a summer full of fun just waiting to happen! Interested in even more family-friendly events? Check out our Daily Calendar at the end of the magazine or click on the “calendar” tab of the Cincinnati Parent homepage.

Sne a k ing in

Fitn ess

S i m p l e t r i c k s t o a d d m o r e m o t i o n i n y o u r k i d s ’ d ay

Michelle Shirk

• Need to get somewhere that’s close? Try walking, biking, scootering or roller blading there. If you must drive, park a short distance away from your destination to sneak in some extra steps.

G ot an e x t r a hou r?

e all know how important exercise is for kids – and how little of it they some- times get.

W

Children and adolescents should have at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. With the busy schedules we often keep, you may be wondering just how to make that happen. Any extra time you can extend in this area is well worth the effort though. “There are numerous advantages to exercise,” says Rachel Horton, Fitness Director at the Mayerson JCC. These include stronger muscles/bones, a reduced risk of being overweight, improved sleep and “a better outlook on life,” she says.

Joyce Szolek Greeley, Girls Gym Jam Department Leader at Kids First Sports Center, agrees. “Sneaking in fitness is the best thing parents can do,” she says. “You do not want exercise to be a chore or seen as a punishment.”

How can you take the “work” out of “working out” and slide in some extra physical activity in your family’s day?

Check out a few of these ideas.

• Use TV time to incorporate movement. Szolek Greeley suggests having kids stretch their muscles during their favorite show and using commercial breaks to do jumping jacks or other exercise.

G ot fifteen e x t r a minutes?

• Play to your kids’ competitive nature. “Children love to be timed,” says Szolek Greeley. “See how fast or how long it takes them to run to [a specific] tree or any object.”

• Enjoy some fresh air. Fifteen Minutes Outside: 365 Ways to Get Out of the House and Connect with Your Kids

by Rebecca Cohen is packed with quick, simple ways to engage with the outdoors year round.

• Dance to a favorite song, suggests Horton. You can extend the workout by letting family members take turns choosing different tunes.

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• Try some new games with the neighborhood crowd. PBS Kids offers a huge list of suggestions at Zoom Games (http://pbskids.org/zoom/ activities/games/). Choose from “Clothespin Tag,” “3 Ball Football,” “Crab Soccer” and many more.

• Sign your child up for an organized sport.

The Mayerson JCC offers everything from swimming to soccer, while the schedule at Kids First Sports Center includes gymnastics, fencing, yoga and more.

• Take a long stroll around your neighborhood or local park. Make the route more interesting by listening for bird calls, identifying flowers and trees or looking for insects.

*Continued on page 28

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G ot a w hole day?

• Check out the Cheetah Run at the Cincinnati Zoo which provides a perfect combination of animals and exercise.

• Sign up to walk or run a charity 5K or 10K as a family. Even before race day rolls around, you should log plenty of active family time preparing for the big day. You’ll find literally hundreds of area events listed at www.runningintheusa.com.

• Take a road trip to one of Ohio’s great state parks. You’ll find waterfalls at Hocking Hills State Park, disc golf at Alum Creek State Park and swimming at Deer Creek State Park.

Start the search for your perfect park at http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/.

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• Get some exercise while learning more about your hometown.

Check out a variety of guided and self-led walking tour options at www.downtowncincinnati. com/exploring-downtown/ tours-itineraries.

• Head to RockQuest for a fun and challenging rock climbing workout.

Participants must be at least 13 to belay, but kids of any age can climb.

If your family is new to the sport consider signing up for a group lesson to help you get started.

This list is just a starting point – the Cincinnati area offers practically endless opportunities for residents seeking an active lifestyle. Make your own “favorites” list of the physical activities your family enjoys most and pretty soon you won’t have to “sneak” fitness in at all!

GROWI NG HE ALTHY FAM ILIE S

First Time Dads Don’t worry – you got this!

Sarah Painer, MSW, LISW-S, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital

• Enjoy this time. No matter how difficult some days (and nights) are, it will go by fast!

Happy Father’s Day to all our Cincy dads this month! If this is your first Father’s Day, congratulations! With the arrival of your baby, you’re probably feeling great joy… and great stress too. Being a new parent can be extremely rewarding, but also unexpectedly difficult as well. Read on for a few tips on managing this major life change.

[Don’t] • Worry excessively about being a good dad • Keep a tally with your partner of who does what

What to expect Having a newborn will affect your relationship with your partner, your image of yourself, your sleep patterns and your sex life. Life suddenly becomes less spontaneous and more rigid, with daily life planned around the schedule of the tiniest member of your family. Although having a baby is a time of immense happiness, emotions like fear and anxiety can also sneak in. New fathers often worry about finances, feel a loss of independence and wonder if they are “messing up” as a new dad. It’s important to remember that these emotions are normal and new dads should not feel guilty about them.

• Distance yourself because you feel uncomfortable or awkward

what was going on. He recommends taking newborn parenting classes as well, saying that “the classes we took were also immensely helpful in preparing my mind for the whole process.”

Do’s and don’ts Remembering a few simple tips can ease this time of transition and pave the way for establishing a healthy routine and relationship with your partner.

[Do] Bonding with baby Sometimes connecting with a new baby can be difficult for dads. This is not abnormal, especially if mom is breastfeeding and has that repeated, intense physical bond happening day and night. Fathers can easily feel left out during this time. Joe, a new dad at 29, says, “One of the first big struggles [I had] was feeling included as a father because she [the baby] was so dependent on mom and I wanted to feel useful and involved in that process.” Joe says that by taking initiative in other ways, like changing diapers, making bottles, keeping his wife comfortable, etc. he was able to feel like a part of

• Spend time as a whole family, but also allow time just for you and your new baby

• Set expectations unrealistically high for yourself or your partner

Mothers and fathers often have different approaches to parenting – and this can be used to your child’s benefit. A “laid back” parent can help balance an overly cautious parent. Find your strengths and use them to create a home that is harmonious for everyone. Remember that the most important thing you can give your child is your undivided love and attention. And above all else, enjoy your new role as a father. No other job you have will be more important – or more fun!

[Resources]

• Share responsibilities with your partner and stand united in your decisions

Talbert House Fatherhood Project 513-221-HELP (4357) www.talberthouse.org/help/

• Openly communicate about how you’re feeling

The Christ Hospital Birthing Center and Childbirth Education 513-585-HUGS (4847) www.thechristhospital.com/services/ womens-health/birthing-center/ childbirth-classes

• Be affectionate with your baby, showing your love in a way that feels comfortable to you • Be patient and have a sense of humor • Educate yourself with parenting classes

Beech Acres Parenting Center 513-231-6630 www.beechacres.org

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2015 CINCINNaTI PaRENT

SUMMER PROGRAM GUIDE [DAY CAMPS] Art Workshop @ Funke Fired Arts 3130 Wasson Road, Hyde Park, OH 45209, Contact: Nancy Kopp/ Director, Phone: 513-406-4009, Email: nankopp@gmail.com, http://theartworkshopinc.net Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Arts Dates: June 8-August 14, 2015 Ages/Grades: 6 Years-16 years Cost: $175 Awesome Art Camps including pottery wheel, drawing, painting, creative clay, make your own pet, Princesses & Super Heroes, Pop Art, handmade creations, Color Explosion, Comic Book and a couple of camps for 4 year olds.

Axis Alley Newport on the Levee: One Levee Way, Newport, KY 41071, Phone: (859) 652-7250, Email: sales@ axisalleylevee.com, www.axisalleylevee.com Gender of Campers: Coed

Dates: May-September 2015 Ages/Grades: Any age (under 16) Cost: $12.99/child +tax/gratuity- $16.99/child +tax/ gratuity Bowling & shoe rental, pizza, and soft drinks!

Packages can be customized for one or two hours, and to include pizza or hot dogs and fries! Early-open hours available. Packages for 8+ kids. Must be pre-booked. Available Monday-Friday.

Baldwin Music Education Center Summer Programs 3799 Hyde Park Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: Rachel Kramer, Phone: 513-351-1109, Email: baldwinmusiceducenter@gmail.com, www.baldwinmusiceducenter.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Arts (music) Dates: June 8 – August 15 (8 or 10-week terms) Ages/Grades: 6-month-olds to 4-year-olds Cost: $60 - $160

Summer is more exciting with music classes to brighten each week! Age-specific, specially-designed music classes engage students from the minute they walk through the door. Singing, playing, keyboard time, crafts and more open the world of music to every child. 50+ years experience, trained group music teachers, friendly neighborhood, ample parking and family discounts.

Bear Paddle Summer Swim Camps 9376 Mason Montgomery Road, Mason, OH 45040, Phone: (513) 285-8855 X4, Email: Mason@bearpaddle. com, bearpaddle.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Sports Dates: June 2015 to August 2015 Ages/Grades: 6 months and up Cost: $150.00 Bear Paddle Swim School Summer Swim Camps feature 30-minute daily swim lessons that are skill-focused and promote safety skill development. Bear Paddle’s iron-on swim skill patches teach young swimmers positive reinforcements in an innovative fun way.

Build It! 416 Clark Street, Cincinnati, OH 45203, Contact: Dayle Deardurff, Phone: 513-651-0734, Email: info@ thebettshouse.org, www.thebettshouse.org Gender of Campers: Coed Type of Camp: Single Day Activity Basic Category: Construction Dates: May 19- Aug. 22, see web site for days and times Ages/Grades: All Cost: $2 per person Build It! offers fun activities on construction concepts for children. The exhibit,from archKIDecture of Chicago, consists activities that presenting architectural subjects including roofs, tools, and shapes. Designed for children age three to twelve, the exhibit promotes visual literacy with activities on shapes, color, and symmetries.

BROADWAY BOUND DANCE ACADEMY 10580 Loveland Madeira Rd, Loveland, OH 45140, Phone: 513-774-9474, www.broadwaybound dance.com Basic Category: Arts, Dance, Traditional Broadway Bound Dance Academy is the place for fun and learning all summer long! We’re excited to offer our themed dance camps again this year for your 3-5 yr old. Complete dance or tumbling instruction is also available. Reserve your spot today!

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Calico Theatre Camp 4200 Clermont College Drive, Batavia, OH 45103, Contact: Nikki Vargas/ Program Manager, Phone: 513-558-1215, Email: clc-artsandevents@uc.edu, ucclermont.edu/community_arts Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Arts Dates: June 8-13, 2015 Ages/Grades: K-12 (kindergarteners must be entering 1st grade in fall 2015) Cost: $60-$115 A fully staged musical experience for young actors. The residency begins with an audition. Children in grades K-12 are cast and well-rehearsed throughout the week, learning lines, songs and choreography that will culminate into an original, musical production. Assistant Directors are also cast to aid in rehearsals and take on essential backstage responsibilities.

Camp-A-Palooza 7900 East Kemper Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Megan Smith/ Camp Department Leader, Phone: 513-489-7575, Email: msmith@kidsfirstsports. com, www.kidsfirstsports.com/camps-events/ camp-a-palooza-camps Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Adventure/Tripping, Arts, Special Needs, Sports, Traditional, Winter/Spring Break Programs Dates: June 1 - August 21, 2015 Ages/Grades: Grades K-9 Cost: $69 daily rate/ $285 weekly rate

Gymnastics, basketball, karate, swimming, putt putt, rock climbing, arts & crafts and much more!

Camp-A-Palooza has a different theme each week and packed full of FUN activities. Many of our campers are here all summer, so we mix it up every week to keep it FUN! Please visit our website for full descriptions of each week.

Camp Art Academy 3711 Clifton Avenue, Clifton, OH 45220, Contact: Lydia Collins, Phone: 513-562-8748, Email: commed@artacademy.edu, www.artacademy.edu/ com-ed/com-ed.php Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Arts Dates: June 6-August 1, 2015 Ages/Grades: Ages 5-12 Cost: $155-245 An award-winning and memorable art experience for your camper! Balancing technical instruction with freedom for self-expression. Camp Art Academy’s curriculum includes fundamental visual art skill building activities, two and three dimensional hands-on experiences, guest artists and creative problem solving with lots of fun!

Camp Chabad 2820 Bearcat Way, Cincinnati, OH 45221, Contact: Rabbi Majeski, Phone: 513-731-5111, Email: info@ campchabad.org, www.CampChabad.org Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Animals, Arts, Special Needs, Sports,

Traditional, Winter/Spring Break Programs Dates: June 22- August 7, 2015 Ages/Grades: 2 Yr.-13 yrs old Cost: $190-$215 A camp that has it all! Sports, Nature, Art, Music, Character Growth, Field Trips, Swimming Lessons, using 200,000 square feet of unmatched fun!

Nurturing dedicated staff. “mix and match” your weeks or sign up for all 7 weeks. Lunch and transportation included. ACA Accredited. Cincinnati’s Premier Jewish Day Camp.

Camp Invention Camps in the greater Cincinnati area, Cincinnati, OH , Contact: Customer Service Millikan, Phone: 800.968.4332, Email: campinvention@invent.org, www.campinvention.org Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Academic/Pre-college Dates: Vary by location - See our website for details Ages/Grades: Grades K-6 Cost: $225, discounts are available, see our website Led by local educators, the weeklong Camp Invention experience immerses elementary school children in handson activities that reinvent summer fun. Discounts are available! Visit www.campinvention.org or call 800.968.4332 for information!

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Camp Wildbrook, LTD. 9664 Daly Road, Cincinnati, OH 45231, Contact: Gayle K. Lucas, Phone: 513-931-2196, Email: campwildbrook@cinci.rr.com, campwildbrook.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Animals, Arts, Sports, Traditional Dates: 6 week session - 6/22/15 -7/31/15 Ages/Grades: Completed Kindergarten - 6th grade Cost: $1437 for 6 weeks Accredited by American Camp Association entering 64th season with outstanding adult staff. Co-ed, very active, outdoor program Monday - Friday. Archery, Arts & Crafts, Basketball, Drama & Singing, Floor Tennis, Gymnastics, Kickball, Nature & Camping, Soccer, Softball, Group Swim Lessons, Special Events, more. Bus transportation additional cost. Family owned/operated.

Cincinnati Children’s ADHD Summer Treatment Program 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: 513-803-7708, Email: ADHDSTP@cchmc.org Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Special Needs Dates: June 15 – July 31, 2015 (8:30am-4:30pm) Cincinnati Children’s ADHD Summer Treatment Program is a nationally recognized summer camp program specifically designed for children ages 8-12 diagnosed with ADHD. Children receive intensive behavioral interventions while participating in recreational and educational activities designed to improve behavior, social, and problem-solving skills with a student-counselor ratio of 2 to 1.

Cincinnati Museum Center Camps 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45203, Phone: (513)287-7021, www.cincymuseum.org/programs/ museum-camp Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Traditional Dates: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Ages/Grades: Ages 7-12

EDUCATION UNPLUGGED! Discover five days of behind-the-scenes fun, Museum exploration, an OMNIMAX adventure and so much more... packed with academic programs and classes that explore history, technology and science through creative, hands-on activities. All under one dome! Before and after care available.

Cincinnati Parks’ Summer Nature Day Camps Locations: Day camps are located at Ault Park, Burnet Woods, California Woods, French Park, LaBoiteaux Woods and Stanbery Park. Contact: Diane Wente, Phone: 513-321-6208 ext 11, Email: dianne.wente@ cincinnati-oh.gov, www.cincinnatiparks.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Animals, Arts, Traditional Dates: June 9 - August 2; 5 different camps each week Ages/Grades: Ages 3 - 15!

Cost: Fees range from $45 - $80 per camp week Activities Included: Beyond our themed camps with special activities, all camps include trail hikes, arts and crafts,

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outdoor games, interactions with live animals, and many more fun, hands-on activities! Our summer camps are voted “Best of the City” and “Best of Parenting” by you for the best value in educational, fun-filled outdoor activities! The most popular “Nature Camps in the Parks” camp serves ages 5-12 every week and their preschool siblings can attend Discovery Mornings at the same park during the same week!

NEW CAMPS: Harry Potter Advanced Magic Camp, Science Mythbusters and “Where the Wild Things Are.” Camp activities are new for your child each year! Online registration: www.cincinnatiparks.com.

Cincinnati Recreation Commission SPECIALTY CAMPS AT LUNKEN PLAYFIELD 805 Central Avenue, Suite 800, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Phone: 513-352-4000, www.cincyrec.org/camps Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Sports, Adventure Specialty Camps at Lunken Playfield are for boys and girls of different ages. Camps include Outdoor Adventure, Multi-Sport, Preschool Sports, Preschool Games and Adventure Gaming. Camp fees range from $75 - $175 / week. Also available are two sessions of Kayak camp and CRC’s RiverTrek excursion. Call your local recreation center for details. Visit the CRC website to register.

Cincinnati Recreation Commission Summer Day Camps 805 Central Avenue, Suite 800, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Phone: 513-352-4000, www.cincyrec.org/camps Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Traditional CAMP CRC Summer Day Camps are offered at 13 CRC recreation centers. Camps run 11 weeks: June 1 - August 14. Activities include field trips and swim lessons. Hours: 9 am – 4 pm ($1045/summer). With Extended Care Program hours: 7 am – 9 am & 4 pm – 6 pm ($1265/ summer). Visit the CRC website to register.

Cincinnati Reds Baseball/ Softball Camps Locations: Beechwood HS in Ft. Mitchell, KY; Summit Country Day in Cincinnati, Mason HS in Mason; Harrison HS in Harrison; Reds MLB Urban Youth Academy in Cincinnati, Contact: Tim Rappe, Executive Director, Phone: 855-846-7337, Email: Trappe@reds.com, www.reds.com/camps Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Sports Dates: Beechwood HS and Reds Urban Youth Academy: 6/1-6/5, Harrison HS: 6/15-6/19, Mason HS: 6/29-7/3, Walton-Verona HS: 7/13-7/17, Centerville HS and Summit Country Day: 7/20-7/24, Reds Urban Youth Academy: 8/3-8/7, 2015 Ages/Grades: Ages 6-14 Cost: $395 Official Camps of the Reds. 30 hrs. of World Class baseball/softball training and unforgettable Reds experience. Meet a top player at GABP. 30 hrs. of instruction. Bring a buddy and save $25. Maybe the best baseball camp in America. Camps sold out last year so register early. Activities Included: VIP trip to Great American, full Reds uniform, 4 game tickets.

Classroom Antics Tech Camps Multiple Locations Throughout Cincinnati, OH, Contact: Tara Foote, Program Director, Phone: 800-595-3776, Email: techcamp@ classroomantics.com, www.classroom antics.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Academic/Pre-college Dates: 1 week camps from June 8, 2015 - August 7, 2015 Ages/Grades: Ages 7-13 Grades 1-7 Cost: $229 Design video games, produce stop-motion animation movies, code computer programs, and build and program LEGO robots in a Classroom Antics Tech Camp! Kids ages 7-13 across Cincinnati are attending our affordable weeklong Tech Camps. Join us this summer. Limited space available; REGISTER EARLY at www.classroomantics.com.

Countryside YMCA Day Camps 1699 Deerfield Rd., Lebanon, OH 45036, Contact: Reuben Smith, Phone: 513-932-1424 ext 149, Email: reuben.smith@ymcastaff.org, www.countryside ymca.org/youth-development/camp/ Basic Category: Adventure/Tripping, Arts, Sports, Teen Tours/Travel, Traditional Dates: May 26- August 14 Ages/Grades: Ages 3-16 Cost: $120 Members $150 Program Members Offering a wide variety of traditional and specialty camps including NERF, LEGOS, Gymnastics, High Adventure, Aquatics, Sports and more! Many camps go on field trips for an additional charge. Pre and Post care available. Half Day camps offered as well.

Enriching Kidz www.enrichingkidz.com Gender of Campers: Coed Ages/Grades: Ages 9-14 Cost: Kidz Home Alone: $60 per child, Better Baby Sitters: $90 per child, Empowering Girls with Confidence: $65-$130 per child Is you tween ready to be home alone or learn the skills needed to be safe while home alone or when babysitting? Appropriate for girls and boys. Do you want your daughter to feel great about herself or in stickly social situations? Register her in an Empowering Girls with Confidence class. For specific dates and Locations: Go to www.enrichingkidz.com.

Fitton Center Camp Creativity 101 S. Monument, Hamilton, OH 45011, Phone: 513-863-8873 ext. 110, www.fittoncenter.org Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Arts, Traditional Dates: June through July Type of Camp: Half-day and Full day Spend your summer with the arts! The Fitton Center for Creative Arts presents Summer Camp Creativity, the perfect destination for children who love to be creative and artistic. Watch their talents shine as they jump into camps that focus on visual art, music, photography or theater!

Gorman Heritage Farm – Farm Camp 10052 Reading Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241, Contact: Katie Murtaugh, Camp Director, Phone: (513)5636663, Email: camp@gormanfarm.org, www.Gorman Farm.org/camp Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Animals Dates: June 1-August 14, 2015/ sessions vary by age and theme; parents should register early!

Ages/Grades: Camps for children ages 4-15 Cost: $70-$240/week Be a farm kid! Camp activities include: interacting with barnyard animals, exploring the woods, garden fun, games, hiking, crafts, music and more. Special themed camps for wilderness, art, cooking, vet & science. Camp sessions scheduled by age group; please see our website for full brochure. Thyme for Farming Fun!

Gray Studios Summer Camp Phone: 818.582.3943, Email: Info@graystudiosla. com, www.graystudiosla.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Arts, Acting Dates: June 15th through June 19th, and every week starting July 7th Ages/Grades: Ages 6-14 yrs old, but can accommodate special circumstances Cost: $600 per week

SUMMER CAMPS ARE BACK! Gray Studios offers one of the most all-encompassing youth camps for actors anywhere! Come join us for a full week of intense & FUN work & learn the secrets that make our students competitive in this industry. This is a week not to be missed! NOW IN OHIO!

GREAT PARKS SUMMER DAY CAMPS Naturalist Department, Various Great Parks Locations, Cincinnati, Oh 45231, Phone: 513-5217275, Email: information@greatparks.org, www.greatparks.org Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Adventure/Tripping, Animals, Arts, Traditional Dates: Various camps, firsts starts June 3, last ends August 7 Ages/Grades: 2-17 Cost: Regular pricing $60-$300 Children ages 2–17 can explore nature this summer through full and half-day Great Parks of Hamilton County Nature, Adventure, Farm, Fishing and Horse Camps. For a full list of camps, including dates and registration deadlines, call 513-521-7275, ext. 240, or visit greatparks.org.

Greenacres Summer Camps 8255 Spooky Hollow Road, Cincinnati, OH 45424, Contact: Andy DeLay, Education Director Phone: 513-891-4227, Email: camps@green-acres. org, www.green-acres.org

Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Traditional Dates: Varies by camp Ages/Grades: Varies by camp Cost: Varies by camp Greenacres Summer Camps offer something for everyone! We have art, environment, equine, garden, culinary, and aquatic adventure camps various times throughout the summer season. Each of our camps are hands-on, small group camps led by a caring professional staff. Log onto www.green-acres.org today to view our Summer Camp Guide. We look forward to seeing you this summer!

McNicholas High School Summer Camps 6536 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, Oh 45230, Contact: Christina Mullis, Director of Communications, Phone: 513-231-3500 ext.5809, Email: cmullis@mcnhs.org, www.mcnhs.org Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Arts, Sports, Traditional Dates: Beginning June 8, 2015 Ages/Grades: Grades 1-9 Cost: Beginning at $60 Launch into Summer 2015 with the Rockets!

McNicholas High School is excited to again offer summer day camps for students entering grades 1-9!

Camps begin June 8 and include many options in our Rocket Athlete Champ Camps and our Blast Off for Fun Camps. Visit www.mcnhs.org for a full listing.

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Paint and Bake Ceramics

YMCA of Greater Cincinnati Summer Day Camps 2015

3972 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring, KY 41076, Phone: 859-415-1909, Email: paintandbakeceramics@gmail. com, www.paintandbakeceramics.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Arts, Traditional Dates: Throughout Summer 2015 Ages/Grades: 5-13; Ages varied based on camp Cost: $40-$200 Paint and Bake Ceramics is a walk-in paint your own pottery studio in Cold Spring, KY. We offer fun for all ages with no studio fees! Summer Camps and Birthday Parties available.

Premier Tumbling and Dance Summer Camps 679 Loveland Madeira Road, Loveland, OH 45140.

Contact: Angie McNeil/ Choreographer, Phone: 513-677-1240, Email: premiertumbling@gmail.com, www.premiertumbling.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Sports Dates: SPRING BREAK CAMP: March 30 - April 3 ; Summer Camps Vary June - July Ages/Grades: Ages 3 & Up Cost: $125-$225/week each child Staying in town for spring break? Then Premier is the place to be that week! Come and learn different styles of dance, tumble, get crafty and play games. Summer has 4 weeks of fun planned for your camper...Become a princess, join a circus, and learn new tricks in our Acro camp! OR let your imagination fly as you join our Musical Theatre Cast as Premier presents: Alice in Wonderland!

Seven Hills School Summer Program 5400 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati, OH 45227, Contact: Jill Romerill, Phone: 513-728-2380, Email: Jill.

Romerill@7hills.org, 7hills.org/SummerProgram Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Academic/Pre-college, Adventure/ Tripping, Arts, School Programs (Before/After), Sports, Traditional Dates: June through August Ages/Grades: Age 3 - 18 Cost: $175 - $350 per week Weekly Summer Programs open to all Greater Cincinnati area children (ages 3-18). More than 100 half-day and full-day programs available! Register for one week or all eight! Early Care and After Care available. To learn more visit 7hills.org/SummerProgram or call 513.728.2380.

GO ONLINE TO SEE OUR EXTENSIVE CAMP DIRECTORY // VISIT WWW.CINCINNATIPARENT.com

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Springer School and Center 2121 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208 Phone: 871-6080 ext. 402, www.springer-ld.org Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Traditional Dates: June 15 - July 10, 2015 “Adventures in Summer Learning” is designed for students of at least average potential who are not making expected progress. The morning program helps children become confident in the basic skills through small group instruction. The afternoon program consists of specialized courses in math, handwriting and writing. The Launch program gives children entering Kindergarten and first grade a head start for next year.

Summer Music Lessons Contact: Paulette Glaser, Director, Phone: 513-7799402, Email: sharpschool@fuse.net, sharpschoolofmusic.net Basic Category: Arts Accepting students of all ages and levels! Summer is a great time for music lessons. Get Started on the Right “Note.” Sharp School offers piano, voice, strings, guitar, clarinet, saxophone. Call for times available.

Private lessons, First lesson FREE: Flexible Summer Scheduling starting June 1st; Pay $88 per month or pay in advance for specified number of summer lessons Semi-private or group lessons-Beginners: Starts June 15th; $115 for 8 lessons

West Chester Academy Summer Camps 8107 Market Place Drive, West Chester, OH 45069, Contact: Patsy Rabinowitz, Phone: 513-829-2345, Email: info@wcaomd.com, www.westchester academy.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Arts Dates: June 15-August 7, 2015 Ages/Grades: Ages 3-18 Cost: $125 per week long camp Choose from 16 unique and fun week long camps this summer at West Chester Academy! Visit: westchesterohiosummercamps.com for a complete listing of music, dance, art, and gymnastics camps. Family multicamp discount: Take $25 off each additional camp per family. Register online or call 829-2345. Check out the brand new facility, 3 blocks north of the old location!

12 locations throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, Phone: 513-362-YMCA, www.myY.org Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Traditional Dates: Registration begins March 7, 2015; Camps run May through August; dates for each camp are available on the website.

Ages/Grades: Ages 3-15 Cost: Cost varies depending on each camp. Pricing and camp brochures are available on our website.

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, Specialty Camps, and Sports Camps)

YMCA Camp Arrowhead 6703 Yankee Rd, Liberty Twp, OH 45044, Contact: Angie DelNegro, Phone: 513-779-3917, Email: angie. delnegro@lakotaymca.com, www.lakotaymca.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Traditional Dates: June 1- August 7,2015 Cost: $135.00 day, $170.00 extended, $110.00 CIT; Non- Members: $175.00 day, $210.00 extended, $140.00 CIT Camp Arrowhead is designed to provide campers with a variety of experiences in a well supervised camp setting.

Each week will include a special theme. Don’t miss a great opportunity! Join us for an open house on Tuesday, May 19th from 6:30-8pm.

[OVERNIGHT CAMPS] Falcon Camp 4251 Delta Rd SW, Carrollton, OH 44615, Contact: Dave Devey, Phone: 800/837-CAMP, Email: info@ FalconCamp.com, www.falconcamp.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Traditional Dates: 2,4,6,8 week sessions available from June 14 – August 8, 2015 Ages/Grades: Ages 6 - 16 Cost: $2225 to varies Ohio’s premier summer camp since 1959. Boys and girls enjoy wide variety of activities with outstanding staff.

“Fun for Now, Skills for Life” is motto and environment created at Falcon. Located on beautiful 8 mile Leesville Lake in hundreds of acres of woods, great food, great fun, lifetime of memories. Activities Include sailing, horseback riding, riflery, archery, tennis, crafts, drama, woodslore, canoeing, swimming, basketball, softball, sports, overnight camping, dances, creative arts, video, mountain biking and much more!

COM M E NTARY & PARE NTIN G

Ask the Teacher Summer reading, trip tips and faded friendships Deb Krupowicz

backyard for a reading picnic. Select audio books to enjoy together or have your daughter create her own audio books by recording herself reading, then making a gift out of the recording for a grandparent or friend.

Q:

We have a long driving vacation planned, and it seems like a good opportunity for reinforcing some school skills. What can I do other than give my son workbooks and books to read?

A:

Traveling certainly does present many opportunities for learning, and hours confined to a car turn riders into a captive audience. Plan to create a documentary of your trip. Your son can take pictures each day and then write interesting captions for them in the evening or during the next day’s driving.

He could also choose a theme for his photos, like a letter of the alphabet, and snap pictures of places or things that begin with that letter.

Q:

I hated reading over summer break when I was a kid. How can I keep my daughter from feeling the same way?

A:

Summer is the best time to make reading fun! Check out what your local library or area book store might be offering in the way of incentive programs, which often create the excitement that young children need to read over break.

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Or create your own program. Make a chart to post in a visible spot with prizes that can be earned at easily reachable intervals. Keep the prizes simple: a chore-free day, choosing the menu for dinner, selecting a family game, inviting a friend over, etc.

Think of ways to change up your daughter’s normal reading routine.

Take a book to the park along with some lemonade, visit a nursing home to read to residents or sit in the

Take along books about the states you will be traveling through to read as you go, which can make the journey more enjoyable. At each rest stop, pick up brochures about area attractions. Read through them together for reading practice. If your son reads well, he can create a trivia contest based on what he reads in the brochure to challenge the rest of the family.

To build some math practice into your travels, have your son make some basic calculations along the way. When a sign appears on the highway that gives the mileage to upcoming destinations, have him determine how many miles are between two of the places listed on the sign. Ask him to calculate meal costs by using the prices on restaurant menus.

After a gas station stop, he can help determine the mileage you are getting on your trip.

Most importantly, stay in vacation mode and find ways to keep learning fun!

Q:

As the school year ended for my third grade daughter, she experienced some heartache when a classmate told her they were no longer friends. My daughter is already dreading the beginning of next year. What can I do to help her move past this?

A:

It can be hard not to trivialize friendship problems that come up with kids, but it is important to remember that our children do not have a mature understanding of how friendships come and go. They are still learning which traits they desire in their friends and which create a recipe for problems. Resist the urge to point out the negatives about the friend who has dumped your daughter. Help her to focus instead on what she learned about herself and about her friend from their relationship. What were the positives that she believes she brought to the friendship? Is there anything she would do differently? This discussion may allow some of your daughter’s weaknesses to surface and will provide a good forum for talking through how important it is to think about our own role in friendships. She may not find any negatives about how she treated her friend, but she may also see that there were times when she might have acted differently. It’s possible that she may even reach the conclusion that the friendship was not a healthy one for her.

After the discussion, don’t belabor the issue.

Help your daughter shift her attention to other girls with whom she would like to spend time.

Without the parameters of school schedules and obligations, summer is a perfect time to build new friendships that can be in full swing by the time school starts back up again.

A sk the T eacher is written by Deb Krupowicz, a mother of four and current teacher. Deb holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and has over twenty years of experience teaching preschool, elementary and middle school students. Please send your questions to her at asktheteacher@cincinnatiparent.com.

JUNE 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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preschool and

education guide [CHARTER] Hori zon S cience Academy C incinnati We prepare students to succeed in college and the world by offering high-quality, college-prep, STEM education.

1055 Laidlaw Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45237, Phone: (513) 242 0099, Email: info@ horizoncincy.org, www.horizoncincy.org, Grades: K-8th

[CHILDCaRE // PRESCHOOL] T he C ampus at K ids F irst We have FULL DAY Kindergarten! Located inside the nationally acclaimed Kids First Sports Center, The Campus offers the premier early learning experience for children ages 6 weeks through Kindergarten. As the only early learning center in the area that makes physical education a top priority, The Campus at Kids First gives your child an academic edge by integrating a world class physical education (including gymnastics, basketball, yoga and soccer!) curriculum in to the daily schedule, at NO additional cost! Our carefully selected and loving teachers utilize a relevance-based curriculum combined with child-directed play to make learning FUN and start each child on their journey to becoming a life-long learner.

7900 E Kemper Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Phone: (513) 629-KIDS, Email: info@theCampusKF.com, www.theCampusKF.com, Grades: 6 weeks thru Kindergarten

Chai Tots E arly 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, dance, art and Tae Kwon Do. Flexible schedules, before and aftercare, web cams and after-school enrichment available. Limited space - now enrolling!

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

T he Compass S chool Ages 6 weeks-6 years plus after school & summer camp up to age 12. Offering outstanding ReggioInspired full and part-time Infant, Toddler, Two’s, and Preschool programs, as well as Kindergarten, After School, and Summer Camp for school-age children. Degreed teachers, extensive parent communication, and welcoming family environment.

Setting the standard in early care and education. Call today for your personal tour.

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9370 Waterstone Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Laura Carr, Phone: 513-683-8833, Fax: 513-683-8456, Email: CompassLC@yahoo.com, www.TheCompassSchool.com

Creative Tots , M ason Creative Tots has specialized in the private education of Toddler, Preschool and Pre-K children for 20+ years. Our holistic approach allows children the opportunity to learn, explore, play and grow while engaging in the fine arts and Montessori activities.

Our modernized curriculum is rich in opportunities to use creativity, solve problems, use language, develop new vocabulary and reading skills, while engaging in intellectual activities. Enrichment Programs: Spanish, Music, Art, Yoga and Science.

6408 Thornberry Ct.,, Mason, oh 45040, Contact: Emilie Parry, Phone: 513-770-6776, Email: creativetotsmason@gmail.com, www.creative totsmason.com, Grades: Toddler: 18 months-3 years, Preschool: 3-4 years; Pre-K: 4-5 years

T he K inder G arden S chools Together with interaction of child, staff and family, we develop the complete child. In our Kinder Garden, we provide formative encouragement and knowledge with hands-on staff taking a personal interest in family and holistic education decisions for the child. Kinder Garden School is devoted to growing a child’s wish to flourish and learn by cultivating curiosity and problem-solving proficiency in a full supportive, fertile, fun setting.

ENLIGHTENMENT IS OUR MISSION. Blue Ash: 10969 Reed Hartman Highway, Blue Ash, OH 45242, Phone: 791-4300; West Chester: 5900 West Chester Road, West Chester, OH 45069; Phone: 874-3100, www.KinderGardenSchool.com, Grades: 6 weeks through kindergarten, Enrollment: Please call the school 791-4300 or email Tami Lanham at tami@kindergardenschool.com.

YM C A of Greater C incinnati The YMCA of Greater Cincinnati offers state licensed before and after school care at over 85 locations throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

1105 Elm Street, Cincinnnati, OH 45202, Contact: Trish Kitchell, VP Youth Development, Phone: 513-362-YMCA, Fax: 513-651-3540, Email: tkitchell@MyY.org, www.MyY.org, Grades: Ages 3-12, Enrollment: Stop by any YMCA of Greater Cincinnati location or check with your local school district.

[MONTESSORI] Children ’ s Meeting House Montessori S chool An authentic Montessori school program resting on 6.5 acres. Extraordinary and rigorous hands-on learning inside and outside of the classrooms creating life long learners, critical thinkers and passionate leaders.

927 O’Bannonville Road, Loveland, OH 45140, Contact: Meg Thomas, Head of School, Phone: 513-683-4757, Email: thomas@cmhschool.com, www.cmhschool.com, Grades: Preschool through Sixth grade, Enrollment: 160

Country H ills Montessori Providing programs for 3 to K. Small, individualized classes with low student-teacher ratios, under the guidance of Montessori certified teachers, in an inter-generational environment. Multiple Locations in Eastgate, Oakley, Harrison and West Chester Ohio and in Ft. Thomas KY. Visit chmschools.com for all location addresses & phones.

Contact: Susan Schreiber, Owner, Email: susan@ chmschools.com, www.chmschools.com/, Grades: 3 - K

G arden M ontessori S chool Celebrating over 40 years, member of Cincinnati Montessori Society. Certified/degreed Montessori teachers with combined 70 years experience. Montessori program, full day, and Kindergarten. Individualized instruction, small class size, 1:8 teacher/child ratio.

Offer music, dance, and gym. Large, fenced-in outdoor playground.

1318 Nagel Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45255, Contact: Jackie Wofford/Director, Phone: 513-474-4933, Email: gms@cinci.rr.com, gardenmontessori school.com, Grades: pre-school thru Kdg. ages 3-6 years old.

L ittle S prouts M ontessori P reschool & K indergarten Little Sprouts Montessori nurtures the natural curiosity and enthusiasm of children, helping them develop a lifetime love of learning. Our goal is to empower children to discover and hone their strengths as they explore the world. We recognize the importance of individualized education, capping classes at ten students.

7131 Plainfield Road, Deer Park, OH 45236, Contact: Christie Sawyer, Phone: 513-697-9021, Email: csawyer@leavesoflearning.org, www. little-sprouts.org, Grades: Preschool & Kindergarten, Enrollment: Families choose mornings two to four days per week (T/TH and/or W/F), and/or afternoon sessions on Tuesday and Thursday.

[NON–PUBLIC]

[PUBLIC]

DePaul Cristo Rey High School

C incinnati P ublic S Chools

Looking for an affordable private school? DePaul Cristo Rey is the Catholic, college-prep high school for families who can’t afford other private high schools. Through our Corporate Work Study Program students work one day a week in professional settings earning part of their education costs. Find out more at www.discoverdepaul.org.

1133 Clifton Hills Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45220, Contact: Yasmeen Khan, Admissions Coordinator, Phone: 513-861-0600, Fax: 513-861-0900, Email: yasmeen.khan@ depaulcristorey.org, www.discoverdepaul.org, Grades: Grades 9-12, Enrollment: 260

T he S even H ills S chool An award-winning Independent, non-sectarian and co-educational school serving students two years through grade 12 on two campuses. An intellectually vibrant environment encourages personal attention and the average class size is 15. Educating the whole child with a college-prep, 21st century curriculum.

Hillsdale Campus - 5400 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati; Doherty Campus - 2726 Johnstone Place, Cincinnati, Phone: 513-728-2400, www.7hills.org, Grades: Pre-K through 12

Our goal is to provide a rigorous curiculum that cultivates critical thinking and technology skills while encouraging collaboration, real-world connections and endless creativity. It’s not just about getting your children ready for graduation. It’s about getting them into college and preparing them for a thriving career!

Phone: 513-363-0123, cps-k12.org

[SPECIaL NEEDS] Brain B alance Brain Balance Achievement Centers offer a cuttingedge, drug-free approach to help children improve their ability to learn academically, socially and emotionally.

We don’t just work with your child’s strengths or compensate for a weakness. We tackle your child’s issue head on, by addressing the root cause at the most fundamental level.

12084 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Phone: 513-257-0705, www.brainbalance centers.com/locations/cincinnati

S pringer S chool and Center For more than 40 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 Changes Everything.

2121 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: Carmen Mendoza, Admissions Director, Phone: 513 871-6080 ext. 211, Fax: 513 871-6428, Email: cmendoza@springer-LD.org, www. springer-LD.org, Grades: 1 through 8, Enrollment: 200

[TUTORING] L angsford Learning Acceleration Centers Is your child on track to be a successful reader? For over 14 years, Langsford has been applying an evidence-based approach to reading difficulties to turn struggling readers into confident and successful ones.

Langsford’s approach is to identify the root cause of the reading difficulties and then to implement research-validated approaches to develop confident independent learners. Langsford offers support for reading, comprehension, and writing. Langsford is also an approved Jon Peterson provider; contact us to see if your child qualifies for a scholarship from the Ohio Department of Education.

Blue Ash Location: 9402 Towne Square Ave. Ste B, Cincinnati, OH 45242, West Chester Location: 7616 Cox Lane, West Chester, Oh 45069, Contact: Jeff Graham, Executive Director, Phone: 513-531-7400, www.WeTeachReading.com, Grades: All ages

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avoiding

summertime injuries Dr. Emma Hostetter, MD

Safety tips every parent must know

W

hile summer days filled with swimming, bike riding and toasting s’mores are every child’s dream, each of these activities can quickly become a parent’s worst nightmare if the proper safety precautions aren’t taken. Here’s a look at some common sense ways to keep your kids safe this summer.

Water safety According to the CDC, drowning is the second leading cause of death in children ages 1 to 4, only surpassed by congenital birth defects. Even non-fatal drowning injuries can lead to devastating health issues for children such as brain damage, learning delays and memory issues. While community pools may seem like the major culprit, home pools are actually the source of most childhood drownings. It is important that parents establish safety measures anytime their children are around water, even if it is only an inch deep.

According to Dr. Michael Chunn, a family physician with Premier Health in Cincinnati, nothing takes the place of adult supervision when it comes to safety. Chunn encourages parents to be with their children in the water and to never use water wings,

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foam noodles or other inflatable flotation devices as a substitute for supervision and a Coast Guard approved life jacket.

Parents should also be trained in child CPR just in case an injury does occur. It’s important to remember to empty baby pools and store them upside down as well.

Bike safety Physical activity is incredibly important for children. Although biking is great exercise, it can also lead to high rates of injuries for kids in the 5-14 age range according to data from the CDC, specifically head injuries.

Dr. Chunn emphasizes that helmets are an absolute MUST anytime a child rides a bike, skateboard, scooter or anything else with wheels. By wearing a properly fitting helmet, a child is less likely to sustain a severe head injury in the event of a fall or crash.

Another way that parents can promote bike safety is by teaching their children the “rules of the road.” If sidewalks are an option, children should be encouraged to stay out of the street. Parents should also teach their children proper hand signals and how to follow traffic signs and lights.

Kids should assume that cars will not see them. One of the best things that a parent can do to instill these safety techniques is to model them for their child. Taking the time to go on a family bike ride is a great way to teach safety while having some fun.

Fire safety While campfires, s’mores and fireworks all scream summer fun, these activities can also lead to severe injuries. Dr. Chunn says that safeguards should always be in place anytime that a fire is present; the most important being adult supervision. Be sure to enforce a safe perimeter of 3-5 feet away from a fire to prevent burn injuries. Young children and toddlers are curious, fast and unsteady. It only takes a moment for them to suffer a severe burn from a live fire. Even the ash from a fire that has been out for over 24 hours can lead to severe burns. Also, Dr. Chunn encourages parents to keep their children away from firecrackers. The risk for injury is just too high. Parents should take the time to talk with their children about fire safety and what to do in case of a home fire, including how to get out of the house and where their designated meeting spot is. Setting up an emergency plan ahead of time can be life-saving.

Injuries do happen, even when well-intentioned parents and caregivers are attentive to the safety recommendations listed here. But, many injuries can also be prevented.

For more on summer safety tips for children, check out the CDC’s recommendations and fast fact sheets.

J U N E E V E N TS

DAILY calendar

JUNE 2015 MON 01

All-S tar Reader K ick- Off! Kick off an All-Star summer of fun at your Library! Swing by any branch during regular hours on Monday, June 1, to register for Summer Reading and decorate a sports pennant.

W ine D own W ednesday All bottles of wine 1/2 price to paid painters 21+ Time: 7:00 pm, Location: Cheers to Art, https:// www.cheerstoart.com, Phone: (513) 271-2793

http://programs.cincinnatilibrary.org

THURS 04 – SUN 07 TUES 02 T een M aker L ab It’s tie-dye Tuesday! Bring your own item to tie-die or pick from our tees and bandanas.

Time: 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm, Location: Main Library, http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org/main/, Phone: 513-369-3121

T uesday N ight F ull Moon F loat Enjoy Winton Lake while the sunsets and moon rises. Get pointers from trained Adventure Outpost instructors and then head out to the lake.

Participants must fit properly in provided lifejackets.

For ages 8−98. Children must be accompanied by adult on the water. $12/person, register by 5/31.

Time: 8:00 pm, Location: Winton Woods, http://www.greatparks.org, Phone: (513) 521-7275

WEDS 03 Family N ight at the Butterfly S how After hours family fun activities and crafts for all ages. Unlimited admission pin not valid at this event. $7, $4 children 5-12, free ages 4 and under.

Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm, Location: Krohn Conservatory, http://www.cincinnatiparks.com/ krohn-conservatory, Phone: (513) 421-5707

F rontier Days Come Celebrate our 53rd Annual Frontier Days!

There will be a Frontier Days parade and spaghetti eating contest on Thursday, followed be a weekend of fun filled with food, booths, carnival rides, games and live music!

Location: Downtown Milford, www.frontier daysmilford.com

FRI 05 Design Your Delectable D oughnut Did you know that today is National Doughnut Day? In honor of the tasty treat, we are having a Design Your Delectable Doughnut day. Join us as we read a few enjoyable doughnut-y books, and then design our best, most flavorful, paper doughnut. Our time together will wrap up by enjoying a (real) delectable doughnut. This event is sure to be a “hole” lot of fun, “sprinkled” with smiles! $3.00. Best for ages 5-7. Space is limited.

Time: 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Location: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore, http://www.blue manateebooks.com, Phone: (513) 731-2665

C incinnati Reds vs .

S an Diego Padres Come cheer on the Reds as they take on the Padres! “Sam” the Bald Eagle from the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden will perform a flight from the roof of the Cincinnati Bell Technology Pavilion in center field to the pitcher’s mound during the singing of the national anthem. Plus, it’s Fireworks Friday… Stay for post-game fireworks show with soundtrack starting approximately 15 minutes after the end of the game.

Time: 7:10 pm, Location: Great American Ballpark, cincinnati.reds.mlb.com, Phone: (513) 765-7000

SAT 06 – SUN 07 & SAT 13 – SUN 14 Day Out with T homas All aboard for Thomas The Tank Engine, as the classic storybook friend rolls into New Haven for a Day Out With Thomas! This fun filled family event offers children and their grown-ups the opportunity to engineer miles of smiles for every guest.

Time: See website for departure times, Location: Kentucky Railway Museum, http://www.kyrail.org, Phone: (800) 272-0152

SAT 06 Tails on the T rail: S P C A C incinnati Join us for Tails on the Trail, spca cincinnati’s annual community Pet Walk! On Saturday, June 6th, we will be at Otto M. Armleder Memorial Park. Come and walk with your pets to on your choice of a 1, 2, or 4 mile course. There will be food, games, entertainment, and exercise.

Check-in is at 8 a.m. and the walk starts at 9:30 a.m. (Rain or Shine). Be sure to register online by 5 P.M. Friday, May 29. $25.

Time: 8:30 am - 3:00 pm, Location: Otto M. Armleder Memorial Park, https://spcacincinnati.org/ events/2015/06/06/tails-on-the-trail, Phone: (513) 489-7392

German-A merican Day at the M arket Wiggle into some lederhosen, grab your favorite beer stein and a brat and join us in celebration of Cincinnati’s rich German Heritage. German proclamations and poetry and plenty of Christian Moerlein beer in the OTR Biergarten.

Time: 11:00 am - 2:00 pm, Location: Findlay Market, http://www.findlaymarket.org, Phone: (513) 665-4839

SUN 07 Mud Day Celebration Celebrate National Mud Day by participating in squishy, muddy fun. Come prepared to get messy and have a lot of fun! No registration required; drop in during listed program hours. Members free, nonmembers pay daily admission ($8 adults, $3 ages 4 – 12, $6 seniors and active military).

Time: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm, Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, www.CincyNature.org, Phone: (513) 831-1711

D E SIG N YO U R D E L E CTABL E DO U GH N U T AT BLU E M A N AT E E CHILDR E N ’ S BOOKSTOR E , J U N E 5t h

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One Day S unday Family F unday!

RID E CI N CI N N ATI AT Y E ATM A N ’ S COV E , J U N E 14t h

Want the kids to take a vacation from those video games…give the remote a rest? Now’s the perfect time to ditch the distractions of everyday life and get back to basics with the whole family! Shalom Family presents One-Day Sunday, Family Fun Day at Camp Livingston in nearby Bennington Indiana (less than two hours from Cincinnati) for an afternoon adventure in the great outdoors. This free event is open to families in the Jewish community in which at least one parent is Jewish and features 600 acres of fresh air and family fun, including a lakefront aqua park, a giant waterslide, foam dance pit, climbing wall, zip line, canoes, kayaks, arts & crafts, sports, a s’mores cookout and more. Lunch and snacks included.

Shalom Family is an initiative of The Mayerson Foundation.

B anana S plit F estival Free concerts, continuous entertainment, cruise-in of classic cars, crafts and collectibles, games, rides, unique food, and of course banana splits. Free!

Time: 10:00 am, Location: Denver Williams Park, Phone: (877) 428-4748

FRI 12 – SUN 14 S t. Gertrude F estival

Time: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm, Location: Camp Livingston, http://www.myshalomfamily.org/ Events/LefttEventRSVP/tabid/205/Default.aspx

Come join the fun! Over SIXTY fun booths and rides available, plus all of your favorite festival foods! Live entertainment available night from the Main Stage, plus enjoy a super-sized auction booth and air conditioned gaming hall to get out of the hot heat! Prizes galore!

B ackyard B ash Family friendly event includes food, games, arts and crafts. Get sneak peek at family and kids’ programs planned for summer. Presented by Cancer Support Community. Free!

Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Location: Cancer Support Community, http://www.cancersupportcincinnati. org, Phone: (513) 791-4060

MON 08 – THURS 11 “ S taycation ” with the Butterflies Come celebrate the kick-off of summer with carnival games, ice cream, sidewalk chalk and sprinklers for the kids. $7, $4 children 5-12, free ages 4 and under.

Time: Friday, 6-11:30 pm; Saturday, 5-11:30 pm; Sunday 3-10 pm, Location: St. Gertrude Parish, http://www.stgertrude.org/festival, Phone: (513) 494-1391

THURS 11 T hursday Art P lay: T he Great Outdoors A great way to schedule creative play time with your little ones. This program uses storytelling, performance and hands-on artmaking activities to excite and educate our youngest visitors. It is designed especially for children ages 3 to 5 years old, and their parents and caregivers.

Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 am, Location: Krohn Conservatory, http://www.cincinnatiparks.com/ krohn-conservatory

Time: 10:30 am, Location: Contemporary Arts Center, http://www.contemporaryartscenter.org, Phone: (513) 345-8400

TUES 09

W ild About W ine

C ivic G arden Center P resents: F lower F riends It’s the perfect time of year to celebrate the return of those hardworking pollinators: the birds, bees, butterflies and other critters who help our gardens grow! We’ll explore the garden and plant some flowers for the pollinators to enjoy.

Time: 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm, Location: Madisonville Branch Library, http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org/ branches/madisonville.html, Phone: 513-369-6029

Bring lawn chair or blanket. This week features “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.” Eric Carle’s timeless tale set to music and dance by AVO Kinderballet of Cincinnati. Rain location: Boone County Public Library Main Branch. Free!

Time: 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Location: Boone Woods Park, http://www.boonecountyky.org, Phone: 859-334-2283

201 5 Q ueen C ity V intage B ase B all F estival Cincinnati Vintage Base Ball Club hosts 3 other vintage teams for a day of free baseball as it was played in 1869. Held at Heritage Village and other sites in Sharon Woods Park. Heritage Village is also hosting free open house tours of village and Victorian-era buildings during games. Presented by the Cincinnati Vintage Baseball Club. Free!

Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 am, Location: Sharon Woods, http://www.greatparks.org/parks/sharon.htm

S ummer Concerts in the Park

Each tasting takes place in different locations throughout the Zoo. Guests will enjoy unique wine sampling, food-by-the-bite from local restaurants, live music, up-close animal encounters and more. Individual tickets to Wild about Wine – $45; Designated Driver tickets to Wild about Wine – $35. Proceeds from the “A Toast to the Wild” event series support the Zoo’s own Lindner Center for the Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife.

Enjoy the band American Graffiti! Expect an exciting, high-energy show featuring the great Motown, doo-wop and rock and roll hits from the 50s, 60s and 70s. Free!

Time: 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, http://cincinnatizoo.org, Phone: (513) 281-4700

R ide C incinnati

WEDS 10 Family F un N ight

SAT 13

FRI 12 – SAT 13 B anshee Brew F estival Breweries will offer a wide selection of craft beers, plus an all-you-can-eat meal, live entertainment and more! More details for this event, including event ticket information and entertainment lineup, will be announced later this spring.

Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Location: Miami Whitewater Forest, http://www.greatparks.org, Phone: (513) 521-7275

SUN 14 Established in 2007, Ride Cincinnati is an annual family-friendly bicycle event held in June at Yeatman’s Cove. Funds raised through Ride Cincinnati benefit breast cancer research at the Barrett Cancer Center at the UC Cancer Institute. $40 Location: Yeatman’s Cove, http://www.ride cincinnati.org, Phone: (513) 235-9542

Time: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm, Location: Kings Island, https://www.visitkingsisland.com

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C in C ity Reptile S how Thousands of non-venomous snakes, lizards, amphibians, spiders, small mammals, feeders and supplies; all at or below wholesale prices. $5, free ages 10 and under.

Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, Location: Fairfield Banquet and Convention Center, http://www. cincityreptileshow.com, Phone: (513) 910-0900

FRI 19 – SUN 21 M ainS trasse V illage Original G oettafest Family fun and entertainment with an emphasis on food dishes using goetta along with arts/crafts, entertainment and children’s activities.

Time: See website for daily schedule, Location, MainStrasse Village, http://www.mainstrasse.org/, Phone: (859) 491-0458

TUES 16 CON E Y I S L A N D’ S Passholder Bring-A- Guest-F RE E Day Season Passholders can bring a guest free to enjoy all the rides. One guest per pass!

Location: Coney Island, http://coneyislandpark. com, Phone: (513) 232-8230

TUES 16 – SUN 21 T ea T ime We will get out the china and dress our best to drink some plants. Learn which plants in our garden are drinkable, while enjoying a cup of tea.

Glenwood Gardens/Highfield Discovery Garden (Program included in Highfield admission: $5/ adult, $4/child ages 2−12. Check website for specific times.

Location: Glenwood Gardens, http://www. greatparks.org, Phone: (513) 521-7275

WEDS 17 P urses 4 A P urpose What’s in your closet? Our goal is to collect tons of new or gently-used designer handbags to sell!

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Aubrey Rose Foundation and help fund programs and services to help families with children facing life threatening illnesses.

Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Location: Covington Catholic High School. http://aubreyrose.org/ news-events/purses-4-purpose/, Phone: (513) 265-5801

FRI 19 Celebrate S ummer – Picnic S tyle We are going to celebrate the arrival of summer and International Picnic Day by having a picnic of our favorite summer stories and a fun craft to do, as well! Join us as we read a few tales that will help us break into that summer mode, picnic-style!

We will be creating a craft to take along on many picnics to come this summer! This event is sure to be a basket of fun (without the ants)! $3.00. Best for ages 4-7. Space is limited.

Time: 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm, Location: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore, http://www.blue manateebooks.com, Phone: (513) 731-2665

Ohio R iver Outdoor Music F estival Spend your evening with us checking out boat demos on Lake Como, learning how to paddle at paddling clinics, trading up or down on gear at the annual gear swap, visiting exhibitors, catching fish in the 5th annual fishing contest, listening to great local bands, enjoying great beer and food, taking a chance on a basket raffle, signing up to paddle a the early registration while dropping off your boat on Friday. BAND LINEUP: The Rumpke Mountain Boys, The Hot Magnolias, Jake Speed and the Freddies, Michela Miller, East of Vine.

Time: 4:00 pm - 12:00 am, Location: Coney Island, www.ohioriverpaddlefest.org/paddlefest/, Phone: (513) 232-8230

and friends, stop for a short break at the Schmidt Field Pit Stop where you can listen to music and nosh on a few samples of deliciousness from a few new Cincinnati hangouts.

Time: 6:30 am - 1:30 pm, Location: Coney Island, www.ohioriverpaddlefest.org/paddlefest/, Phone: (513) 232-8230

R oeblingfest Foods from local restaurants, beverage booths, music, art show and sale showcasing local talents and variety of tours. Free!

Time: 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm, Location: Roebling Point Entertainment District, Phone: (859) 261-7777

SAT 20 – SUN 21 2015 V ectren Dayton A ir Show The Vectren Dayton Air Show presented by Kroger is designed as a wholesome familyfriendly event. Held every summer at the Dayton International Airport, the show features world-class entertainment. There are activities and events that will capture the imagination of kids of all ages, including interactive, hands on activities, experiments, and demonstrations for children ages 6-16. General admission: $21; Seniors/Kids 6-11: $16.

Time: 9:00 am -6:00 pm, Location: Dayton International Airport, www.daytonairshow.com/, Phone: (937) 898-5901

Juneteenth F estival Also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, a holiday honoring African-American heritage by commemorating the announcement of the abolition of slavery in Texas in 1865.

Featuring reenactments, horseback rides, food, entertainment and more. With health, history, education and kid’s pavilion and a Father’s Day concern on Sunday. Free!

Time: See website for schedule, Location: Daniel Drake Park, www.juneteenthcincinnati.org/, Phone: (513) 631-7289

SAT 20 THURS 18 K ids Outdoor Adventure E xpo Join us for the 10th anniversary celebration of Kids Outdoor Adventure Expo. The Kids Expo is the largest water safety and outdoor environmental education event in the Midwest that is interactive and fun for children of all ages.

The event is free and open to the public to summer camps, families, day campers, Girl and Boy Scouts/Clubs, summer programs and Coney Island visitors to enjoy the day with us by learning through fun. Enjoy activities, exhibits, presenters and performers throughout the day in a “village” type setting.

Time: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm, Location: Coney Island, www.ohioriverpaddlefest.org/paddlefest/, Phone: (513) 232-8230

S lide the C ity Summer time is upon us, and we are bringing 1000 feet of slick vinyl to brighten Cincinnati!

Come dressed to impress because it’s not every day you can strut through town with your hot bod, cool dance moves and slick slides. Slide the City is a family friendly slip-and-slide water party event.

There will be live music, food, drinks, water, and of course the biggest slip and slide ever to hit asphalt. Make sure to bring your water buckets, floaties, and water guns (non-realistic of course), to squirt, spray, splash, and get all attending soaked.

Location: Jefferson Ave (by W Correy St), http://www.slidethecity.com/events/cincinnati/

Paddle the Ohio Start your morning off right paddling on the mighty Ohio River with about 1,800 fellow paddlers. This is one trip to cross off your “bucket list” and one you won’t soon forget. Paddle from Coney Island to the Public Landing in downtown Cincinnati. Enjoy floating down river with family

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SUN 21 Father ’s Day at K rohn Conservatory Dads get in FREE! (Regular admission for everyone else.)

Time: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Location: Krohn Conservatory, http://www.cincinnatiparks.com/ krohn-conservatory, Phone: (513) 421-5707

Father ’s Day Boat Tour Gather the family for a trip on the Winton Queen. Celebrate Father’s Day in style cruising the lake searching for nature’s wet and wild phenomenon. Catch a glimpse of a great blue heron in flight or parades of turtles sunning themselves on nearby logs. $6/adult, $5/senior or child, register by 6/17.

Time: 12:00 pm, Location: Winton Woods, http:// www.greatparks.org, Phone: (513) 521-7275

3 rd S unday F unday: S uper S ummer F unday

FRI 26 – SAT 27

SUN 28

Celebrate the first day of summer and Father’s Day at the Taft! Wump Mucket Puppets will put on a special show at 2 p.m. Explore “Dads in Art” in the Museum, check out traditional Appalachian toys at the Art Cart, and play some games for kids of all ages on the lawn. Make a puppet of your own to take home and extend the fun—or give it to Dad to say “Happy Father’s Day!”

Great Parks Backyard Campout Join us for a night under the stars! Families can camp in the park and connect with nature.

Primitive sites (125 spots) will be available on a first come, first serve basis. Free programing, events and climbing wall start at 6 p.m. Advanced registration is required. Free!

F ree A nnual C incinnati Parks C ircus Day at Burnett Woods

Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Location: Taft Museum of Art, www.taftmuseum.org/, Phone: (513) 241-0343

Time: 3:00 pm -10:00 am, Location: Lake Isabella, http://www.greatparks.org, Phone: (513) 521-7275

FRI 26 – SUN 28 TUES 23 Music C af é An evening at Music Café is like music to your ears. Literally. Featuring a wide variety of musical performances that’s free to the public, it continues to be one of the community’s most popular events. Come enjoy melodies from all genres, including everything from folk music and worldly sounds to bluegrass and hard rock. Musicians come from all over southwestern Ohio to perform, and we’re always searching new acts to share their talents on our welcoming stage.

Admission is free!

Time: 7:00 pm, Location: Fitton Center for Creative Arts, www.fittoncenter.org, Phone: (513) 863-8873

Panegyri Greek F estival What can be more enjoyable than relaxing on a sunny day with sweet bouzouki music playing in the background, biting into a Gyro sandwich, a Souvlaki, a piece of yummy Pasticho or honey coated Baklava and watching children dancing Greek village dances? Come join us and give us the opportunity to share our heritage with you.

Admission: $2 per person, Children 12 & under are free, with free parking and shuttle from St. Xavier High School.

Time: Friday 5-11 pm; Saturday 3-11 pm; Sunday 1-8 pm, Location: Holy Trinity-St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, http://www.holytrinity.oh. goarch.org/92.html/, Phone: (513) 591-0030

This free annual Cincinnati Circus Company event transforms Burnett Woods Park… into an outdoor circus arena, complete with our Big Rig Flying Trapeze, Inflatable Bounce Houses, Fire Performers, Stilt Walkers, Balloon Artists and more. Bring your whole family, a picnic blanket, sunscreen, and your juggling clubs and watch as the Cincinnati Circus Company brings to life our Big Top Show for you.

Time: 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm, Location: Burnett Woods Park, http://cincinnaticircus.com, Phone (513) 921-5454

MON 29 Reds Day at the Zoo Stay tuned to find out which Cincinnati Reds players will be joining the mascots at the Zoo in 2015! Billy Hamilton, Devin Mesoraco & Donald Lutz joined us for Reds Day at the Zoo 2014!

Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm, Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, http://cincinnatizoo.org, Phone: (513) 281-4700

TUES 30 WEDS 24 3rd A nnual Food T ruckin ’ for Josh C ares Foodies will enjoy gourmet grilled cheese, Korean bbq, traditional bbq, tex mex, Cajun, Cincinnati style chili, and sweet treats like gelato, popsicles and cupcakes at the only food truck festival to hit downtown’s Fountain Square. Highlights will include hosting of the Golden Spatula Awards Celebrity Judging, social media contests for great prizes, entertainment and feature interviews with Josh Cares families, sponsors, and members of our Junior Board volunteers who put on this spectacular event.

Time: 11:00 am - 2:00 pm, Location: Fountain Square, http://myfountainsquare.com, Phone: (513) 352-4066

Wonders of W ind K ite-a-T hon Try your hand at the old-fashioned skill of kite flying. Bring joy to the heart of your youngster as they begin to master the windy skills. Bring your own kite or buy one for a nominal fee, while supplies last. under $5/kite, payable at the door.

SAT 27 Cincinnati Pride Parade and F estival Two-hour parade with famous grand marshal, main festival with music, drag queens, beer and spirits, and Family Fun Zone.Parade begins at 11 a.m. Festival kicks off at noon.

Time: 11:00 am, Location: Sawyer Point, http://www. cincinnatipride.org/festival.html

Family F estival: T he Sky ’s the L imit

B ook Your Own Adventure: T he I nvention of Bubble Gum Get your passport stamped as we visit the all-stars of history. Each week we’ll read an acclaimed picture book about an artist or inventor and follow up with an activity or craft that explores their life or work. The focus is on fun! Ages 5-8. Learn about the trial and error involved with invention and experiment with making your own play dough.

Time: 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Location: Mariemont Branch Library, http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org/ branches/mariemont.html, Phone: (513) 369-4467

Drop in and join the fun! Guest artists and educators with a talent for working with children teach hands-on art projects that can be taken home or displayed in the UnMuseum®. Projects use unusual materials and processes that artists of all ages can enjoy. This is an open-house style program, so drop in any time during the offering.

Time: 1:00 pm, Location: Contemporary Arts Center, http://www.contemporaryartscenter.org, Phone: (513) 345-8400

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm, Location: Winton Woods, http://www.greatparks.org, Phone: (513) 521-7275

THURS 25 – SAT 27 S pirit S ong 2 01 5 SpiritSong, the three-day Christian music festival at Kings Island, is coming back for a 22nd consecutive year June 25-27, 2015! Tickets are on sale now!

Time: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm, Location: Kings Island, https://www.visitkingsisland.com WO N D E RS OF W I N D KIT E-ATHO N AT W I N TO N WOODS , J U N E 2 4t h

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O N GOI N G E V E N TS // J U N E 2 0 1 5

ONGOING EVENTS S hark Bridge Daily through December 30

C incinnati F ringe F estival Occurring Daily Through June 6th

Time: 10:00 am-6:00 pm, Location: Newport Aquarium, Phone: 1-800-406-3474, http://www. newportaquarium.com

Time: See website for schedule, http://www. cincyfringe.com

For thrill-seekers that dare to cross, Shark Bridge is the only suspension bridge in North America where guests can walk just inches above nearly two dozen sharks. This V-shaped rope bridge is 75-feet long and is suspended over the open water of the 385,000 gallon Surrounded by Sharks exhibit. The new Shark Bridge experience is included with admission or annual pass. $23 Adult, $15 Child (2-12), Free children under 2

The Festival produced by the Know Theatre of Cincinnati in Cincinati’s beautiful neighborhood of Over-the-Rhine. Over the course of 12 days, there are over 200 performances of 40+ productions in about a dozen venues These artists represent a variety of media including theatre, dance, music, poetry, visual art, film and beyond.

Be sure to use the Fringe Guide (the official Fringe Festival publication) to plan out what shows you want to see!

F riday N ight Grill Outs Occurring Each Friday Beginning Friday, May 22nd Through Friday, September 4th

H umpback W hales Occurring Daily Through August 5th

Times: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Phone: (513)521-7275, Location: Lake Isabella, www.greatparks.org

Leave Friday night dinner to us! Enjoy an evening at the lake with delicious grilled meals from $8.50–$10 and live music on the pier from 6–8 p.m. The park playground and boathouse will also be open for fun activities for all ages.

Build I t!

Occurring Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday through August 22nd Time: 11:00 am - 2:00 pm, Location: The Betts House, www.thebettshouse.org, Phone: 513-651-0734

Build It! offers fun activities on construction concepts for children. The exhibit,from archKIDecture of Chicago, consists activities that presenting architectural subjects including roofs, tools, and shapes. Designed for children age three to twelve, the exhibit promotes visual literacy with activities on shapes, color, and symmetries.

May 19- Aug. 22, see website for days and times. $2 per person.

Dine-I n M ovies Occurring Fridays, June 26th through July 31st Time, 9:30 pm - 1:30 pm, Location: Kings Island, https://www.visitkingsisland.com

Soak City Waterpark will again be making a splash this summer with the return of Dive-In Movies Friday nights starting June 26 through July 31. Parents and children can relax in a floating tube, swim or watch poolside as they enjoy the movie in a unique outdoor setting.

Enjoy music and games before the movie which begin at dusk. Best of all, Dive-In Movies are included with park admission to Kings Island. *Wave pool capacity limited, first-come, first-serve. Plenty of poolside space available.

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Price: $7.50, Phone: (513)287-7000, Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, www.cincymuseum.org

Narrated by two-time Golden Globe® nominee Ewan McGregor, Humpback Whales is an extraordinary journey into the mysterious world of one of nature’s most awe-inspiring marine mammals. Set in the spectacular waters of Alaska, Hawaii and the remote islands of Tonga, this ocean adventure offers an up-close look at how these whales communicate, sing, feed, play and take care of their young.

For more fun ONG OI NG events , visit www.C I NC I NNAT I PARE N T.com

S ummer C inema Occurring Each Wednesday Beginning Wednesday, May 27th Through Wednesday, August 26th Times: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Location: Washington Park, Phone: (513)621-4400, http:// washingtonpark.org

Summer Cinema features a free movie screening every Wednesday at the Park! Dust off those lawn chairs, grab a picnic basket, and join us for a fun, relaxing evening over on our civic lawn.

R ide T he Ducks Occurring Daily Through Sunday, November 8th Times: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Cost: Adult ( 13+)- $18 Children (2- 12)- $13, Location: Newport Aquarium, Phone: 859-815-1439, http://newport. ridetheducks.com/experience/ticketinformation.aspx

Ride the Ducks is Greater Cincinnati’s most unique attraction. Splash down and cruise the Ohio River while exploring the historic waterfronts of Newport, Covington and Cincinnati. Enjoy the ride as we pass the World Peace Bell, Historic Riverside Drive, Great American Ballpark, Paul Brown Stadium and much more aboard an amphibious vehicle crafted from WWII-era DUKW vehicles.

S cience of S ports Occurring Daily through September 7th Butterflies of the P hilippines Occurring Daily Through June 21st Times: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Price: $7, $4 children, free ages 4 and under, Phone: (513) 421-4086, Location: Krohn Conservatory, www.cincinnatiparks.com/krohn

The Krohn Conservatory Butterfly Show turns 20 this season! Travelling far away to the paradise of the Philippines will be as easy as a trip to the Krohn! The entire conservatory will be transformed— brilliantly showcasing the life, the culture, and stunning natural beauty of the Philippines. The showroom will be filled with butterflies soaring among bold displays that will immerse visitors in a sumptuous tropical environment.

T he Addams Family Occurring Daily (except Mon & Tue) Beginning Through Sunday, June 28st Cost: $73, $57, Location: La Comedia Dinner Theatre, Phone: 800-677-9505, www.lacomedia.com

Wednesday Addams has grown up and fallen in love with sweet, smart young man from respectable family. Gourmet buffet prior to showtime.

Time: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, http://www.cincymuseum.org, Phone: 513-287-7000

Exhibit challenges your body and mind as you explore how incredible feats of athleticism are just science at work. $5.50-$19.50. Note: Times are from 11:00 am- 6:00 pm on Sundays only.

E scape T he R oom Challenge Occurring Every Friday, Saturday & Sunday Times: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Cost: $28; Reservations Online Only; Free Parking, Location: Escape the Room Challenge, Phone: 513-7597666, www.escapethe roomchallenge.com

Can you escape? Region’s newest and largest interactive escape adventure in which players are trapped in a room and must find clues and solve puzzles in order to escape in one hour. Great fun with two themed rooms, including Esmeralda’s Curse (up to 10 players) and Escape the Mob (up to 8 players). Open year-round! Group discounts available.

PLEASE NOTE // At Cincinnati Parent, we work hard to ensure our calendar and guide information is accurate. Occasionally, event specifics change after we go to press. Therefore, we encourage our readers to call locations or visit them on the web to verify information.

FUN &WACKY

CINCINNaTI PaRENT // JUNE 2015

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SOURCES // familycrafts.about.com, brownielocks.com, holidayinsights.com, zanyholidays.com & thenibble.com

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