Southwest Ohio Parent June 2023

SUMMER FUN ISSUE!

SUMMER CONCERTS

POOLS + SPLASH PADS

BERRY PICKING

CAMPING + GLAMPING

AND MORE!

Cool

Water

10 Cool Ice Cream Shops in Southwest Ohio

A hot summer day and a cool ice cream cone go hand-in-hand.

Outdoor Summer Concerts Around Town

Get ready to jam at these summer outdoor concerts happening all around Southwest Ohio!

Best Farms to Pick Summer Fruit

Farm-fresh ways to enjoy the summer season!

Summer Fun Guide

Dozens of listings that will help your family fill the summer days ahead.

Great Places to Go Glamping in Southwest Ohio

Enjoy the great outdoors without "roughing" it!

A Summer to Remember

Every summer is special for its own reasons, but this summer is special because it’s the summer that my oldest son transitions from elementary school to middle school. In the grand scheme of things, it’s not the biggest transition in the world. But it does signify a huge transition to him: No more recess at school.

He’s kind of bummed. Recess is one of his favorite parts about school.

In a way, this is kind of his last summer of being a “kid.” So, I’m thinking we go all out and have a summer to remember. We’ll visit new-to-us water parks. We’ll eat ALL the ice cream. We’ll stay up late, enjoying outdoor concerts and drive-in movies and summer festivals. We’ll make this our best summer yet.

Putting together this issue is what inspired me to go all out. Our June issue is packed full of fun, thanks to our Summer Fun Guide, starting on page 22. From glamping spots to places to get wet, this issue is your resource for planning a delightful season. It’s an issue that you’ll want to reference again and again this summer, so be sure to keep it handy! I know I will.

Here’s to a fabulous summer of being a kid!

PUBLISHER

Mary Wynne Cox mary@ohparent.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER + ADVERTISING

Katie Clark katie@ohparent.com

EDITOR Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@ohparent.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER Becca Reynolds becca@ohparent.com

DIGITAL PUBLISHER Wendy Hasser wendy@ohparent.com

DIGITAL EDITOR + DISTRIBUTION

Rebecca Matteson rebecca@ohparent.com

ADMINISTRATION

Emily Kirchmann emily@ohparent.com

BILLING billing@ohparent.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS calendar@ohparent.com

OUR COVER KIDS

HADLEY & ELLIE

HADLEY

age 4 ELLIE

age 3

favorites favorites

COLOR FOOD SPORT

TV SHOW MOVIE TOY

SUPERHERO CANDY BOOK

ICE CREAM FLAVOR

Pink and rainbow

Pizza

Soccer

Mystery Show

Zootopia

Vet kit

Spidey

Cupcakes

Cupcake Fairy

Rainbow

an interesting fact about me

My best friend and cousin is Ellie!

when I grow up

I want to be a vet!

COLOR FOOD SPORT

TV SHOW MOVIE TOY

SUPERHERO CANDY BOOK

ICE CREAM FLAVOR

Pink

Cupcakes

Dancing

Cocomelon

Tangled

Unicorn

Wonder Woman

Lollipops

Underwear Dragon

Pink with sprinkles

an interesting fact about me

My best friend and cousin is Hadley!

when I grow up

I want to be a helper!

COVER PHOTO BY Gabrielle Cheikh Photography gcphotography.com

say cheese! Local kids

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

Want to see your cute kids on this page?

We're looking for photos of cute kids for the July issue of SW Ohio Parent! Email your photos (with the first name and age of the child) to editor@ohparent.com, and your photos might appear here!

Nya (15 mos)

Jade (1) and Luna (4)

Lydia (7), Lorna (5) and Rowin (6)

Denver (5)

Phoenix (2)

Olivia (7) and Zoë (18 months)

Beck (4) and Frances (5)

Blake (11)

WORDS BY REBECCA MATTESON

Sit Still Kid Salon

Taking the kids for a haircut is no longer a chore at Sit Still Kid Salon, an adorable hair salon located in Mariemont. With perfectly placed cars for seating, adorable trinkets like bracelets, chalk, books and nail polish and the friendliest stylists, your kids will beam with excitement for their next haircut.

The bright space is inviting for parents and kids. Book online for baby’s first cut, short cut, long cut, curly, buzz, mundan or teen. Make it a family day and add an adult cut with recommended shampoo wash for ages 11+. One of the best parts of getting a haircut at Sit Still is the adorable add-ons like glitter tattoos or sparkle strands.

Make your kid’s dream come true with their very own package or birthday party hosted at Sit Still. The party room is a highlight of the salon with adorable confetti walls, a grand mirror, table, chairs and manicure station. Sit Still offers three different parties and packages: BFF, Party of 4 or Treat Yourself. BFF includes hairstyling, mini-mani and photo keepsake with your bestie, or bump up to a Party of 4 to include four

friends. Making it a special day for one? Go with Treat Yourself! Sit Still offers private parties for larger groups, too.

Amazing extras include braids and special styling, shaved designs, swimmer treatment, detangling, temporary peekaboo strand color and semi-permanent color. Sit Still’s mini-mani makes everyone feel special with a gentle file, minimassage, non-toxic nail polish and nail decal.

Each kid leaves with a fresh cut and lollipop, ready to take on the world!

7431 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati cincinnati.sitstillkids.com

NEWS & Notes

Did You Know?

Source: watermelon.org

Get Ready for a Summer of Fun!

The Southwest Ohio Parent Summer Fun Guide is here! Your go-to guide for all-things summer begins on page 22 of this issue. From the best places to cool off on a hot summer day to our favorite ice cream spots, our guide will help you keep your family entertained all summer long. Need more summer-fun ideas? Go online to ohparent.com/summer-activities and check out our Summer Fun in Southwest Ohio page!

Educational Workshops for Kids at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum

Summer Series for Kids is back in 2023! Each Friday in June and July, kids ages 5-12 can enjoy new and improved art and nature inspired workshops at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum. Well-known and loved workshops will return this year, like Chicka Chicka Boom Boom and Story Time with the Lane Library. Participants can also look forward to new educational experiences, like a Green Corn Moon Celebration and Bi-Okoto African dance class.

Each workshop is one hour long, and a chaperone for each child is required to stay at the Park for the duration of the workshop. To register, visit pyramidhill.org/ summerseriesforkids

1

THAT’S HOW MANY DADS IT USUALLY TAKES TO SCREW IN A LIGHTBULB. CELEBRATE ALL DADS AND THEIR BAD DAD-JOKES

LITTLE FOODIES

WORDS BY REBECCA MATTESON

Whetsel Whip

Whetsel Whip is the ultimate shop for creative foodies who love ice cream. Located in Madisonville, the newly opened ice cream parlor is equal parts aesthetically pleasing and so, so tasty. With gorgeous pink roses covering the shop and bakery next door, Whetsel Whip is one-of-a-kind as far as ice cream shops in Cincinnati go.

The creative menu is a show-stopper with loaded ice cream “nachos” and a rotating flavor menu with cone upgrades like pretzel cone, chocolate chip cookie cone, waffle bowl, waffle cone and our favorite: the large bubble waffle cone. For an extra 50 cents, dip your cone in tasty flavors like chocolate, blue raspberry or birthday cake confetti. The walk-up window is open Tuesday through Sunday with outdoor seating nearby.

Signature sundaes are a highlight of the Whetsel Whip menu. Sixteen variations of the Whip’s delicious ice cream include Ryan the Cookie Monstaaa with blue ice cream,

Oreo crumbles, mini chocolate chips, chocolate sauce, whipped cream and a cherry. Taylor the Party Girl keeps things a bit more classic with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, rainbow sprinkles, chopped nuts, whipped cream, cherry and a candle. For the kids, Dirt N’ Worms tops chocolate ice cream with chocolate sprinkles, gummy worms, Oreo crumbles, chocolate sauce, whipped cream and a maraschino cherry.

“The best things in life are sweet” is the motto at Whetsel Whip, which carries over to the bakery next door and nearby sister store, Cheesecakery, one block away. The bakery and ice cream shop expansion fits nicely into the revitalization of Madisonville and is a perfect place for a well-deserved treat. The bakery is full of sweets like cannolis, cheesecake brownies, macarons, pretzel rods, huge cookies, biscotti and The Cheesecakery’s famous individually-sized cheesecake “cupcakes.”

4825 Whetsel Ave., Cincinnati whetselwhip.com

With a large variety of splash pads, spray parks, pools and natural bodies of water available in the area, there’s no shortage of splashing fun to be had. Here are some cool spots to spend a hot summer afternoon.

COOL PLACES

Dunham Recreation Center

4356 Dunham Ln., Cincinnati

Locally known as “Dunham,” the aquatic center at Dunham Rec Center is equipped with large twisty slides, smaller tube slides, zero-depth entrance and free parking.

Evanston Recreation Center

3204 Woodburn Ave., Cincinnati

The Evanston Rec Center has everything necessary to cool off on a hot day, including a multi-story water slide, zeroentrance pool, and tons of space to swim.

Hirsch Recreation Center

3630 Reading Rd., Cincinnati

The Hirsch Rec Center combines the fun of a splash park with the perks of a neighborhood swimming pool. The park has lots of spray features, slides, a zero-depth entrance, and pools of different depth for all abilities.

Dyer Sprayground

2110 Freeman Ave., Cincinnati

This free splash pad is perfect to cool off on a hot day. The splash pad has jets spraying from the ground, a play apparatus and a super fun slide.

East Fork State Park

3294 Elklick Rd., Bethel

There’s something special about swimming in a lake in the summertime. The Harsha Lake at East Fork State Park is the perfect place to swim with a view, find rocks, play in the sand, or maybe even rent a paddle boat. It is well worth the drive.

Stonelick State Park

2895 Lake Dr., Pleasant Plain

Another outdoor oasis worth the drive. Stonelick State Park has a beautiful lake to swim in surrounded by trees, wildlife, and, of course, the beach. As a bonus, Ohio State parks do not charge entrance fees.

Parky’s Ark Wet Playground

10245 Winton Rd., Cincinnati

Parky’s at Winton Woods has it all. After learning about farm animals, playing in the sensory gardens, or climbing around the playground kids can cool down in the wet park. The animal themed splash park has jets, streams and water galore.

Smale Riverfront Park

166 W. Mehring Way, Cincinnati

Smale Riverfront Park is another park with plenty to do any time of the year.

In the summer, however, the water pad is the place to be. It has super unique features, like everyone’s favorite water auger, that will keep kids entertained all day.

Caesar Creek State Park

8570 OH-73, Waynesville

At one of Ohio’s beautiful state parks, you can find the perfect oasis for a hot summer day. The lake is great for kids to swim around or play Marco Polo. The long shoreline is also excellent for making sandcastles, finding rocks and playing games. All Ohio State Parks offer free admission.

Wegerzyn Gardens

1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton

The Children’s Discovery Garden replicates natural habitats like caves, creeks and waterfalls, so that kids can have fun and be safe. The gardens also have lots of sand pits for kids to make creations after cooling off.

Island MetroPark

101 E. Helena St., Dayton

Island MetroPark has both traditional and wet playgrounds, making it a great place to spend an entire day. The water park has sprays, water drops and in-ground jets galore.

Interactive Fountains at Riverscape

237 E. Monument Ave., Dayton

The super-high 20-foot jets at Riverscape are lots of fun to run around on a hot day. They also have family-friendly music

with the jets in beat. If you are planning to stay a bit later, make sure to check out the choreographed fountain routine.

Adventure Reef Water Park

2900 Glengarry Dr, Kettering

This massive three-acre water park has the works. From cones tipping out gallons of water to huge water slides and splash pads, Adventure Reef is the perfect way to spend a whole day.

Kroger Aquatic Center at The Heights

8625 Brandt Pike, Dayton

While the gigantic slide is always a fan favorite, there is lots to do at this water park. Of course, it is equipped with a lazy river, spray grounds and smaller pools for little ones.

Sycamore Trails Aquatic Center

400 S. Heincke Rd., Miamisburg

Sycamore Trails is the picture-perfect pool for the summer. From five gigantic “sunbrellas” to three slides (one tube, one body and one frog) and a classic dive tank, there are places for parents to relax and places for kids to play.

Germantown Aquatic Center

75 N. Walnut St., Germantown

This Olympic-sized pool has water slides, diving boards and a zero-depth entry pool.

10 Cool

No matter where you are in southwest Ohio, you’re never too far away from great ice cream. Whether you like your ice cream in a cup or cone, sandwiched between cookies, or plopped on a piece of pie, you’ll find the perfect local place to cool off with a cold treat. Here are 10 great ice cream places to visit this summer!

Mason Whippy Dip

127 E Main St, Mason

The Mason stand is famous for their Glaciers: a slush float with ice cream and tons of flavor options. With a hot dog in one hand and a cone in the other, Mason Whippy Dip will keep your belly full and happy.

Sprinkles Soft Serve and Tasty Treats

1861 Main St, Goshen

Sprinkles in Goshen is a neighborhood soft serve ice cream shop with a large patio area and drive thru. You’ll find lots of tasty treats here, including all things soft serve.

Aglamesis Bro’s

3046 Madison Rd, Cincinnati

9899 Montgomery Rd, Montgomery

Aglamesis is a family-owned ice cream parlor that has been serving the Cincinnati area since 1908.

ICE CREAM SHOPS in Southwest Ohio

They are known for their handcrafted ice cream, candies and chocolates, made with only the finest ingredients.

Graeter’s Ice Cream

Multiple locations

Famous for their French Pot ice cream, Graeter's is a Cincy-based ice cream company that has been serving up delicious frozen treats since 1870. Their ice cream is handcrafted in small batches and known for its creamy texture and intense flavors.

Don’s Creamy Whip

1522 Market St, Reading

The Reading shop serves premium ice cream with all the traditional toppings for a deliciously creamy cone. Some of the flavors you might find here include low-fat cake batter yogurt, Vanilla, chocolate, blueberry, Zebra Twist and low-fat peanut butter yogurt.

Young’s Dairy

6880 Springfield Xenia Rd, Yellow Springs

Young's Jersey Dairy is a working dairy farm and family-friendly destination, offering a wide range of activities such as petting zoos, miniature golf… and most

importantly, homemade ice cream made with milk from their own cows.

The Sweet Retreat Ice Cream

2613 Smithville Rd, Dayton

Ice cream nachos? Sign us up! Parents will especially love creative ice cream concoctions like Iced Caramel Latte Nachos with coffee ice cream, caramel drizzle, crunchy caramel topping and waffle “chips” for scooping.

Jubie’s Creamery

471 W Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd, Fairborn

Created one small batch at a time, Jubie’s Creamery in Fairborn boasts premium ice cream and soft custard. They serve a variety of crowd favorites, specialty flavors, soft serve custard creations and tasty treats.

Ritter's Frozen Custard

2531 Dayton-Xenia Rd., Beavercreek

Ritter’s serves up an ultra-premium ice cream called “frozen custard,” developed by the French over 100 years ago. Enjoy a scoop or two in one of their waffle cones or waffle bowls, which are made fresh daily.

Pendleton Parlor

1218 Broadway, Cincinnati

Order from an eclectic menu of creamy whip flavors ranging from Nutella Swirl to Rainbow Sherbert in a cup or cone. They also serve edible cookie dough by the scoop, plus sundaes and shakes.

OUTDOOR CONCERTS AROUND TOWN

GET READY TO JAM AT THESE SUMMER OUTDOOR CONCERTS HAPPENING ALL AROUND SOUTHWEST OHIO!

Warmer weather means there is more happening outdoors — including concerts. Families can find lots of concerts happening at local parks and venues in the area this summer. So pack some snacks, bring a blanket or chair, and hit the park to hear some tunes in the great outdoors.

The Eichelberger Concert Series

Location: Levitt Pavilion

Address: 134 S Main St, Dayton

Price: Free levittdayton.org

Get ready for a great lineup of free, live concerts in Dayton this summer! Music will fill downtown Dayton as bands perform every Thursday through Saturday, starting on June 1 and going through September 16. Enjoy 45 free concerts embracing afrobeat, Americana, Celtic, Christian, folk, funk, jazz, R&B, indie and psychedelic rock, and much more.

Music at the Esplanade

Location: Smale Riverfront Park

Address: 166 W Mehring Way, Cincinnati

Price: Free

cincinnati-oh.gov

Live music, good food and fun in the Castellini Esplanade section of Smale Riverfront Park. Free concerts every Saturday from a refreshing mix of Cincinnati bands, June 1-August 26.

Sawyer Point Summer Concert Series

Location: Sawyer Point & Yeatman's Cove

Address: 705 E Pete Rose Way, Cincinnati

Price: Free

cincinnati-oh.gov

The best bands from near and far gather at Sawyer Point for a summer of music. Enjoy music, food, family friendly games, and even Fourth of July fireworks.

Brady Block Parties

Locations: The West End, The Banks, Price Hill, Evanston and East Walnut Hills, and Bond Hill

Price: Free cincinnatisymphony.org

Each Brady Block Party is free and open to the public, and will include music and art activations by Elementz and Robert O’Neal Multicultural Arts Center (ROMAC), games and activities for all ages, and food from area food trucks, and will culminate with an outdoor concert by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

Jazz at the Park

Location: Washington Park Address: 1230 Elm St, Cincinnati

Price: Free washingtonpark.org

Local and regional jazz acts perform every Monday at Washington Park Porch, featuring the finest of Cincinnati’s thriving jazz scene. Free and open to the public.

Blue Ash Summer Concert Series

Location: Blue Ash Nature Park

Address: 4337 Cooper Rd, Blue Ash

Price: Free

blueashevents.com

The lineup for the 2023 Blue Ash Summer Concert Series features an exciting variety of performers on Tuesday nights, starting on Tuesday, June 6. All concerts begin at 7 p.m.

The Takeover Summer Concert Series

Location: The Square @ Union Centre

Address: 9285 Centre Pointe Dr., West Chester Price: Free

westchesteroh.org

The Takeover is an admission-free, outdoor summer concert series featuring live music; dinner & dessert options from some of the area’s tastiest food trucks; and cold beverages from local craft brewers. Concerts are 6-9 p.m. at the clock tower.

Stubbs Park Summer Concert Series

Location: Stubbs Park

Address: 255 W Spring Valley Pike, Centerville Price: Free

centervilleohio.gov

Join the City of Centerville and the Centerville Arts Commission for summer music and fun, presented by Cincinnati Children's. All concerts begin at 7 p.m. and are free to the public. Food trucks and concessions will be available at all shows. ASL interpretation is provided by Miami Valley Interpreters. A special Friday night performance from Centerville Pops! will bring the music of Star Wars, Lost in Space and other sci-fi films to the Stubbs Park Amphitheater with The Sci-Fi Experience.

best farms to Pick Summer Fruit and Flowers Farm-fresh ways to enjoy the summer season!

A big part of summer is enjoying all of the sun-drenched, ripe and juicy fruit available this time of the year, as well as basking in the beauty of summer blooms. Here in Southwest Ohio, we have lots of u-pick farms specializing in summer’s bounty. If fruit picking and bouquet building is on your summer bucket list, here are some of the best pick-yourown farms around the area!

Alpine Berry Farm

26191 Pocket Rd., Batesville, IN alpineberryfarm.weebly.com

July-Mid August

Berryhill Farm

127 E. Krepps Rd., Xenia berryhillfarm.net

July August

Blooms & Berries

9669 Ohio 48, Loveland bloomsandberries.com

End of May-Early June

June

Mid July

Bonus: Blooms & Berries

Strawberry Days takes place through June 4! Enjoy berry picking, a petting farm, bee train, bounce pad, shopping, live music, food trucks and more.

Irons Fruit Farm

1640 Stubbs Mills Rd., Lebanon ironsfruitfarm.com

Mid June Jackson’s Farm Market

2931 US Route 68 S, Xenia facebook.com/ jacksonsfarmmarket

June McGlasson Farms

5832 River Rd., Hebron, KY mcglassonfarms.com

Mid June July to August

Monnins Fruit Farm

8201 Frederick Pike, Dayton monninsfruitfarm.com

Mid June July

Mid September

Once in a Blue Moon Farm

3984 E. Social Row Rd., Waynesville facebook.com/ onceinabluemoonfarm

July

Peifer Orchards

4590 US 68 N., Yellow Springs peiferorchards.com

Late August-Early September

Late August-Early September

Stokes Berry Farm

2822 Center Road, Wilmington facebook.com/ stokesberryfarmohio

End of May

Summer Fruit Galette

This is the dessert that our editor, Nicole Sipe, makes the most for her family during the summer. It’s easy to make — especially if you use store-bought pie dough. You can use any type of summer fruit you have on hand, including berries, cherries or other stone fruit.

Ingredients

1 store-bought frozen pie crust

2 cups of fresh or frozen summer fruit

¼ cup sugar

2 teaspoons cornstarch

¼ teaspoon cinnamon

A squeeze of lemon

1 egg, beaten

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Place one 9-inch frozen pie crust on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, and allow to thaw.

Note: We recommend calling ahead to confirm individual picking times and berry availability. Weather can affect harvest times.

– In a mixing bowl, toss the fruit, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice together until combined. Gently dump the mixture into the center of the thawed dough, leaving a 1-inch border.

– Working in a circle, tuck the crust in overlapping pieces over the berries. Using a pastry brush, brush the crust with the beaten egg.

Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then turn the heat down to 350°F and bake 15 more minutes until the crust is golden. If the crust browns too quickly, cover the galette with foil and continue baking. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

SOUTHWEST OHIO HAS NO END OF OPPORTUNITY FOR SUMMER ENTERTAINMENT, LEARNING AND EXPLORATION! CHECK OUT THESE COOL LISTINGS THAT WILL HELP YOUR FAMILY FILL THE HOT SUMMER DAYS AHEAD.

Blooms & Berries Farm Market

Feed the animals in the area's nicest 40 animal petting farm, Pick Blackberries or Blueberries, Eat Ice Cream, Play and Picnic! Current petting farm hours and berry picking availability details at BloomsAndBerries.com. Farm Games, Barnyard 500 Trike Track, Bee Train, and Bakery Treats available for purchase. Saturdays–Sundays also feature our Beer Garden, Food Trucks and Live Music. Tickets online only. Only 3 miles from the Bike Trail in Loveland, OH!

(513) 697-9173 | BloomsAndBerries.com | 9669 S. St. Rt. 48, Loveland, OH 45140

Cincinnati Tiki Boat & Cycleboat

Let Cincinnati Tiki Boat & Cycleboat help you and your friends throw the party of the summer on the most unique boats in town! Our Tiki Boat accommodates groups of up to 16 and the Cycleboat up to 14. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks onboard.

(513) 430-1304 | cincinnatipartyboats.com | 4601 Kellogg Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45226

Charm at the Farm Vintage Market

This open-air vintage market is located on a 56-acre farm in quaint, Lebanon, OH. The best local artisans and shops from across the region come together exclusively at Charm at the Farm to create an exciting, outdoor shopping experience like no other only 3 weekends per year each June, August and October. Charm features rustic gifts, furniture, home décor and more, and is the perfect girls' day out! Learn more online and follow Charm on Facebook and Instagram @charmatthefarm

charmatthefarm.com | 4953 Bunnell Hill Rd., Lebanon, OH 45036

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum

Explore over 300 acres dotted with 70 monumental outdoor sculptures, and join us for multigenerational Park programming, like our annual Fishing Derby happening June 17th. Day visits or memberships are available for a whole year of benefits including free Park admission and discounts on Art Cart rentals (yes, we have golf carts!), and much more.

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

Snapology of West Chester

At Snapology, we understand that children are meant to learn through play. When children are actively engaged in hands-on, interactive learning activities, their creativity flourishes and they show a greater interest in school. Snapology helps your child develop a thirst for knowledge by engaging children ages 3-14 using LEGO® bricks, K’Nex and technology. While the kids are having fun, we sneak in the educational concepts. In most cases, kids don’t realize how much they are learning!

(513) 988-7363 | westchestertwp.snapology.com | Various Locations, West Chester Twp, OH 45069

Wonderland Playground

Beat the summer heat at Wonderland Playground! Wonderland Playground was designed for ages 1-8 with several different play areas! A dedicated baby area, a ninja course, slides, tunnels and more! In addition to play areas, Wonderland has a nursing room, a cafe with snacks and beverages and free wi-fi.

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

Cincinnati Museum Center

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

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

Nakama Studio

Nakama Studio is located in the heart of Batavia, Ohio, and is a space for all ages to learn and grow. A wide variety of unique classes and camps are offered including Art, Pottery, Fiber Arts, Baking, Apothecary, Gardening, Beekeeping, Legos, Yoga with Animals, Holistic Wellness Events, Parties and so much more!

(513) 827-1299 | nakamastudio.org | 600 Kilgore Ave., Batavia, OH 45103

Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm

Aullwood Audubon is a 200-acre nature sanctuary and educational farm in Dayton, Ohio. Part of the National Audubon Society, it is nationally recognized for environmental programming that focuses on connecting children of all ages with the wonders of birds, nature, wildlife and bird-friendly farming. Have an adventure at Aullwood today!

(937) 890-7360 | aullwood.audubon.org | 1000 Aullwood Rd., Dayton, OH 45414

Code Ninjas Green Township

Code Ninjas camps inspire kids in the exciting world of technology. Our camp curriculum helps kids build coding skills and create amazing projects. This location is locally owned/operated by two moms who are passionate about teaching kids how to create with the technology they love!

(513) 878-1338 | codeninjas.com/oh-green-township | 6507 Harrison Ave., Ste. V, Cincinnati, OH 45247

Cincinnati School of Music

Cincinnati School of Music works with students of all ages and abilities. Beginners are welcome! We offer lessons on piano, voice, guitar, ukulele, violin, drums, woodwinds & more, fostering confidence and creativity in our students. Located in Olde Montgomery, Mason, & Anderson, CSM provides lessons 7 days a week!

(513) 560-9175 | cincinnatischoolofmusic.com | 9865 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45242

Cincinnati Nature Center

There’s fun for the whole family at Cincinnati Nature Center! Spend the day hiking our award-winning trails or enjoy time in the Nature PlayScape, where natural features are designed for open-ended, hands-on creative play. Summer is a great time to visit, so plan your trip today at CincyNature.org!

(513) 831-1711 | CincyNature.org | 4949 Tealtown Rd., Milford, OH 45150

Ritter's Frozen Custard in Beavercreek

NOT ALL ICE CREAM IS CREATED EQUAL. One bite and you’ll agree—Ritter’s frozen custard is simply the creamiest, best-tasting ice cream ever to cross your palate. Ritter’s is made fresh all day, every day, using the highest-quality dairy ingredients. Also available - dairy-free superb Italian Ice !

(937) 320-0772 | ritters.com/location.php?id=26 | 2531 Dayton-Xenia Rd., Beavercreek, OH 45434

Five Rivers MetroParks

Five Rivers MetroParks manages 18 clean, safe parks and the 2nd Street Market, which are free to use and open year-round, in the Dayton area. MetroParks provides programs for families such as Conservation Kids, and many MetroParks include family-friendly amenities, such as nature play areas. Visit metroparks.org/outdoor-play

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

Red, White & BOOM! with the Cincinnati Pops

The Cincinnati Pops presents Red, White & BOOM! at Riverbend Music Center on Monday, July 4th. Gather the family and celebrate Independence Day with a showcase of patriotic favorites inspired by the beauty of this land and its peoples, plus post-concert fireworks! Free lawn tickets for kids 17 and under.

(513) 381-3300 | cincinnatisymphony.org | 6295 Kellogg Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45230

Music Together of South Dayton

Sing, dance, play and JAM with us this summer! From babies to “big kids,” find the perfect indoor or outdoor class for your family to enjoy a safe, fun music-making experience. Enrolled families also receive a songbook and code to download our award-winning music through the Hello Everybody app. Join us for our week-long Rhythm Kids Summer Camp for our “big kids” (ages 4-8) the week of June 19-23, or one of several weekly class options offered throughout July for children 0-8 years old (and the grownups who love them!)

(614) 499-4133 | musictogetherofsouthdayton.com | Locations in Beavercreek, Centerville & Oakwood, OH

Whitewater Valley Railroad

With regular and special trains running April-December, you're sure to find the perfect opportunity to visit our railroad with family and friends. Summer excursions include the Valley Flyer, Whitewater Limited, Wild West Special, Civil War Special and the Labor Day Valley Flyer.

(765) 825-2054 | whitewatervalleyrr.org | 455 Market St. Connersville, IN

Art in the City - Saturday, Aug. 5

Art in the City is the cultural family event of the summer – and you’re invited! A celebration of the best artistic talent in Dayton, Art in the City will showcase more than 300 amateur and professional local artists. Backed by all of Dayton’s finest community arts organizations, this free event will bring art out of its stereotypical locations and make it fun and accessible to all. You’ll find demonstrations on sidewalks, live performances in public parks, and art of all kinds in non-traditional locations across downtown Dayton. Interactive stations and participatory art making is at the heart of the event, making it perfect for art lovers of all ages.

(937) 224-1518 | downtowndayton.org | Downtown Dayton, OH

Brady Block Parties

Gather family and friends for an evening of food, activities, art and the sounds of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra in a neighborhood near you! Join us at our Brady Block Parties, free outdoor concerts taking place across Greater Cincinnati including the West End, Downtown, Price Hill, Evanston and Bond Hill.

(513) 381-3300 | cincinnatisymphony.org | Multiple locations

LM&M Railroad

The LM&M Railroad offers historic train rides in Warren County Ohio departing from Historic downtown Lebanon. Passengers ride in vintage passenger cars behind a historic diesel locomotive. The LM&M Railroad offers the only family friendly train ride experience in Southwest Ohio.

(513) 933-8022 | lebanonrr.com | 16 E South St., Lebanon, OH 45036

Heritage Village Museum & Educational Center

Heritage Village Museum brings history alive! Take a tour and explore our thirteen historic buildings from the 1800’s. Meet reenactors in historical clothing during our immersive summer events such as Marching Through Time, History Alive Days, or Free Days. Enjoy fun, interactive experiences including Escape the Village Escape Rooms, Spirits by Starlight Ghost Tours, Period Dinners, Summer Camps, and Vintage Base Ball. Travel back in time this summer with a visit to Heritage Village Museum!

(513) 563-9484 | heritagevillagecincinnati.org | 11500 Lebanon Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241

EnterTRAINment Junction

Don't miss the fun at EnterTRAINment Junction this summer! Buy both our world class attractions for one low price ! Our Do-It-All ticket includes The World's Largest Indoor Train Display, our 5000 sq. ft. Kid's Play Area, The American Railroading Museum, The World's Most Complete Collection of Marbles, and Rock Star Neil Young's touring train display. Plus, the A-Maze-N FunHouse with the region’s largest mirror maze, spinning vortex tunnel, the hilarious tilt room, the astonishing Ames Room, a claustrophobia hallway and more!! Check out our website for special promotions & other deals! And you can save $2.00 per person when you buy our Do-It-All online!

(513) 898-8000 | entertrainmentjunction.com | 7379 Squire Ct, West Chester Township, OH 45069

Greene County Parks & Trails

Bring your family to Greene County Parks & Trails for all kinds of summer fun! Concerts, car shows, crafts, and more – we have a little bit of something for people of all ages and interests in the family to enjoy! Thousands of acres. Miles of trails. It all belongs to you, right here in your own backyard!

(937) 562-6440 | gcparkstrails.com | 635 Dayton-Xenia Rd., Xenia, OH 45385

Glamping

IN SOUTHWEST OHIO

Enjoy the great outdoors without “roughing” it!

Does your family like the idea of camping, but not the idea of "roughing it"? Then you might like glamping! Glamping is all about making camping comfy and luxurious, so you're able to enjoy the great things about nature without having to deal so much with the downsides.

We all know someone who is all for the wonders of nature, hiking and stargazing, but when it comes to no running water and bugs crawling on their sleeping bag, it’s a "No thanks!" Glamping offers a unique get-away in which visitors get all the "good stuff" of camping with none of the harder aspects of truly roughing it in the great outdoors. Amenities often include air conditioning, a small restroom, a bed and other comforts from home, and they come in the form of yurts, cabins, tents and other structures.

The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls

21190 OH-374, Logan innatcedarfalls.com

This is a cozy bed and breakfast surrounded on three sides by Hocking Hills State Park. It offers lots of unique lodging options, including luxury cabins perfect for a family of four, all the way up to lodges that sleep 12. The luxury cabin offered all of the comforts of home, like wifi and a full kitchen, as well as some bonuses, like a two-person whirlpool tub, a gas fireplace and a large grill on the deck to cook out. All of the cabins are set just close enough to the main Inn that you can walk to breakfast and dinner at the Inn’s restaurant, Kindred Spirits (and a full breakfast is included each morning of your stay). But the cabins are also far enough into the woods that they provide a respite from all noise except the sounds of bird calls and scurrying woodland critters.

Dappled Light Adventures

1132 Derrick Ridge Rd, Beattyville, KY

wifi/cell service. It’s also fitted with a full-size refrigerator, stove, electric fireplace, indoor plumbing, fold out couch, one queen & one twin bed, private porch and outdoor shower. Glamping tents have amenities like an on-site bathhouse, outdoor grill, outdoor nets and a private fire pit.

Multiple Ohio State Park Locations

Ohio State Parks are another great option for glamping in Ohio. Families can enjoy renting a cabin at the following Ohio State Parks:

Buck Creek State Park:

The park's 24 cabins are located in a wooded area separated from the campground. Several cabins offer a view of the lake. Two cabins are fully ADA accessible. All have two bedrooms including one with a queen-size bed and most offer a second bedroom with a twin/full bunk bed combination.

Cowan Lake State Park:

East Harbor State Park: Close to Lake Erie, this park has one yurt available to rent that sleeps up to 6 people. The yurt includes a refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker.

Harrison Lake State Park: Two yurts are available and are equipped with two double beds, a microwave, a grill and a picnic table.

Kelleys Island State Park: Located in Lake Erie, just north of Sandusky. The park has two yurts that sleep six, with a full kitchen and a full bath. Enjoy relaxing on the yurt’s deck or snuggle up on cold days inside the fully heated yurt.

Mosquito Lake State Park: This park near Cleveland has two yurts, which sleep up to four on two bunk beds. Each yurt includes a deck with lake views, as well as a refrigerator, microwave and grill.

Luckily, Ohio offers a wide variety of different adventures in which visitors can check out some of the spectacular lakes, rivers, dunes and wide-open spaces, plus some interesting sleeping arrangements to go with it. Check out our top picks for glamping adventures in our area.

dappledlightadventures.com

The cabins and glamping tents at Dappled Light Adventures offer picture-perfect views of the tree top canopies and gorge below. Considered partially rustic, the cabin rental has electricity for your morning pot of coffee but spotty

The modern cabins at this park are situated in a wooded setting along the lake. All offer a fully-equipped kitchen, furnished living room, and bathroom with shower. Cabin also offers screened porch and fire rings.

Pike Lake State Park: The recently renovated cabins at this park can sleep four to six people, and include a bathroom with shower, kitchen and porch.

2023 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

DAY CAMPS

Camp-A-Palooza at Kids First Sports Center

CAMP-A-PALOOZA is Greater Cincinnati’s most talked about summer camp experience! Why? Four words: Kids First Sports Center…108,000 square feet of kids sports heaven! Every day is a themed, non–stop, in and outdoor adventure. From morning drop–off to evening pick–up, you’ll experience crafts, talent shows, water slides, sports instruction, science experiments, agricultural projects and more!

Dates: May 30-August 18, 2023 • Hours: Times: 7am-6pm • Ages: 5-15 years of age • Activities: Swimming, Gymnastics, dance, soccer, tumbling, trampoline, Ninja, arts and crafts, gardening.

7900 East Kemper Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Julie Halusek, Email: campinfo@kidsfirstsports.com, Phone: (513) 489-7575, kidsfirstsports.com

Camp Art Academy

Time Travel Adventure

At Camp Art Academy, students receive an award-winning arts education experience while exploring their creativity and making new friends within a diverse and inclusive community. Camp Art Academy balances technical instruction with freedom of self-expression. In the morning, students practice drawing, painting, and printmaking, while in the afternoon, students explore sculpting, constructing, and installation art and explore influential artists. I Dates: June 5th-July 28th, 2023; Each week features different themes; check website for more details • Age: 5-8 and 9-13 years

1212 Jackson St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Phone: 513-562-8762, artacademy.edu/ office-of-engagement/communityeducation/camp-art-academy/

Camp at the J

At Camp at the J, kids can experience the best of summer. From swimming and archery to arts & crafts, camp values and color wars, and much more, kids will create memories and form friendships to last a lifetime. Give your child a summer to remember at Camp at the J! Camp at the J was a 2022 Best of Parenting poll finalist.

Code Ninjas Anderson Township

UNLEASH YOUR CHILD'S INNER

NINJA! Transform your child's love for technology into an exciting learning adventure. Guided by our team of Code Senseis, Code Ninjas Camps empower kids to gain valuable tech skills and make new friends. It's an unforgettably fun learning experience!

Dates: June 5- August 4, 2023 • Hours: AM Camp: 8:30-12:30; PM Camp: 12:30-4:30 • Ages: 7-14

7426 Beechmont Ave, Suite 210, Cincinnati, Ohio 45255, Contact: Jamie Luebbe, Email: jamie.luebbe@codeninjas.com, Phone: (513) 233-2633, codeninjas.com/oh-andersontownship/camps

Crème de la Crème Summer Camps

Where in the World? Enroll your child in Creme’s Summer Camp, where our program combines recreational adventures and fun with various learning activities to provide your child with the best of both worlds. Enjoy Field Trips, Water Park, Bowling Alley, Art Studio, Outdoor Sports & much more! Space is limited, so register now to reserve your spot!

Ages: 5-12

Mason: 5324 Natorp Boulevard, Mason, OH 45040, Phone: 513-586-5085, cremedelacreme.com/locations/ mason-oh; West Chester: 8110 Market Place Dr, West Chester Township, OH 45069, 513586-5328, cremedelacreme.com/ locations/westchester-oh

Girl Scouts of Western Ohio

Day AND overnight camps at three locations, plus travel camps for girls in grades 8-11. Not a member? Not a problem—Girl Scout camp is open to all girls! Come experience the magic of camp—the joy of making new friends, bravely trying new adventures, and discovering the amazing wonders of nature.

Dates: Weekly, June 11 - August 4 2023 • Hours: Varies • Ages: Girls currently in grades K-11 • Gender of Campers: Girl Multiple locations, Phone: (888) 350-5090, Email: customercare@gswo.org, camp.gswo.org

MidPointe Library Summer Reading Program

exploring new books or finding fun around the house and in your community.

Dates: June 1 – July 31, 2023 • Ages: All ages

Available at all MidPointe Library System locations (West Chester, Middletown, Liberty Township, Monroe & Trenton), Contact person: Cari Hillman, Phone: 513-424-1251, MidPointeLibrary.org

Snapology of West Chester

Snapology’s vision is to create a fun environment for children to play and learn. Snapology strives to introduce children to STEM through educational play. Our programs are focused on building confidence while developing problem solving and iterative learning skills. We are committed to developing the next generation of scientists, mathematicians, engineers, inventors, robotics experts & leaders!

Dates: All weeks in June and July, some weeks in August • Hours: AM Camps, 9 am to 12 pm & PM Camps, 1 pm to 4 pm (8 am early drop off, 5 pm late pick up) •

Ages: 4 to 14

Various Locations, Email: westchestertwp@ snapology.com, Phone: (513) 988-7363, bit.ly/snapcamps

Theatre Summer Camp

Whether you’ve never stepped on a stage before, or have already been bitten by the acting bug, our theatre camps are the perfect place to learn some new skills, make some new friends, and have a whole lot of fun! In person programs for students in grade 1-12 who want a fun and challenging stage experience this summer! Learn more online.

Dates: June and July 2023 • Grades: 1-12

• Cost: $295/week, multiple week discount available

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

Summit Summer @ Summit Country Day School

available now! Registration now open.

Dates: Early June - Early August 2161 Grandin Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45230, Contact Name: Shayleigh Holbrook, Auxiliary Services Manager, Email: holbrook_s@ summitcds.org, Phone: (513) 871-4700 Ext: x369, summitcds.org/programs/ summit-summer

USA Ninja Challenge Cincinnati Summer Camp

The ninja program is designed to meet the requirements of a full physical fitness program for today’s youth. We incorporate ninja obstacles including rings, balance beams, slack lines, cargo nets, ropes, a traverse rock wall, devil steps, horizontal peg boards, our popular warped wall and more! The desired result of this program is to improve children’s strength, flexibility, and athleticism while building self esteem for our ninjas!

Dates: June 5th-August 4th, 2023 •

Hours: Monday through Friday 9:00am -12:00pm • Ages: 5-13

4727 Red Bank Rd Cincinnati, OH 45227, Contact: Steve Sharp, Phone: 513-739-5528, Email: redbank@usaninja challenge.com, ninjacincinnati.com

YMCA Summer Day Camps

Day and specialty camps at the Y are all about adventure. Kids have the opportunity to explore nature, find hidden talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting friendships. Weekly themes create energy and excitement whether you camper is with us for one week or the full summer!

Dates: Camps run May through August • Ages: 5-12 • Cost: Varies by camp. Visit MyY.org/day-camp for prices.

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

YMCA of Greater Dayton Day Camps

Dates: June 12 - August 11

• Hours: 9:30am - 3:30pm *Extended Care

Available • Grades: K - 10

8485 Ridge Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45236, Contact: Lauren Smyjunas, Phone: 513.722.7245, Email: daycamp@ mayersonjcc.org, MayersonJCC.org/Camp

MidPointe Library System is bringing you a season of fun with its annual Summer Reading Program. Pick up a “All Together Now” activity map and create your own adventure by completing challenges to win prizes. Families can enjoy activities together,

The Summit Country Day School welcomes students from the tri-state area to enjoy summer on our Hyde Park campus. With programs for children ages 18 months - Grade 12, parents can take comfort in knowing that their child is exploring their curious nature, enjoying time with friends, and exploring a new topic or hobby. Both full-day and half-day camps are available. Online Catalog will be

Join the YMCA of Greater Dayton from May-August 2023 (session dates vary by location) for a fun-filled summer for your child! Whether you choose one week or all summer, YMCA Day Camp fits your schedule and provides fun and enriching activities for your child. OUR PROMISE TO PARENTS - Your kids will be safe, make new friends, learn new skills and most of all, have fun!

Dates: May 30th-August 11th, 2023

Available at 10 Dayton area locations, Contact: Valerie Holland, Email: ymcachildcare@daytonymca.org, Phone: (937) 223-5201, daytonymca.org/ programs/child-care-programs/ summer-day-camp

OVERNIGHT CAMPS

Falcon Camp

Recognized throughout the midwest as Ohio’s premier summer camp since 1959. Beautiful lakefront setting, talented experienced staff and wide variety of activities. Campers choose own schedules within general framework. Most of all it’s great fun! Special intro for 6-10 year olds. ACA accredited. At Falcon, 'Good Things Happen by Design'.

Gender of Campers: boys and girls -separate daily activities with planned coed events. • Dates: June 18 -August 12 for 2023 in 1,2,4,6 or 8 week sessions •

Ages: 6-16

4251 Delta Rd SW, Carrollton, OH 44615, Contact: Dave Devey, Phone: (330) 627-4269, Email: Info@falconcamp.com, falconcamp. com/

EDUCATION GUIDE

CHILDCARE & PRESCHOOL

The Campus at Kids First

We have FULL DAY Kindergarten!

Located inside the nationally acclaimed Kids First Sports Center, The Campus offers the premier early learning experience for children ages 6 weeks through Kindergarten. As the only early learning center in the area that makes physical education a top priority, The Campus at Kids First gives your child an academic edge by integrating a world class physical education (including gymnastics, basketball, yoga and soccer!) curriculum in to the daily schedule, at NO additional cost! Our carefully selected and loving teachers utilize a relevancebased curriculum combined with child-directed play to make learning FUN and start each child on their journey to becoming a life-long learner. • 7900 E Kemper Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, theCampusKF.com , Phone: (513) 629-KIDS, Email: info@theCampusKF.com

Chai Tots Early Childhood Center

Academic excellence via a unique blend of Jewish and Montessori education offering strong academics, stressing life skills, interpersonal relationship skills and nurturing a love for life-long learning. Individualized curriculum customized for each student, expansive naturally lit rooms, low student ratio. Specials include yoga, music, Hebrew, Spanish, dance, drama, art and Tae Kwon Do. Flexible schedules, before and aftercare, web cams and after-school enrichment available. Transportation available to/from Mason schools. Limited space - now enrolling! • 7587 Central Parke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040, Phone: (513) 234-0600, ChaiTots.com , Ages/ Grades: Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Kindergarten (6 weeks-6 years), Enrollment: 60

Creative Tots, Mason

Our holistic approach allows children (18 months - 5 1/2 years) the opportunity to learn, explore, play and grow while engaging in the fine arts, science, music, yoga and a modernized curriculum. We provide opportunities to use creativity, solve problems, use language, develop new vocabulary and reading skills, while engaging in intellectual activities. There are elements of STEAM education, bilingual education, arts education, as well as lots of physical activities to strengthen the mind and body. • 6408 Thornberry Ct., Mason, OH 45040, Contact: Emilie Parry, Phone: 513-770-6776, Email: creativetotsmason@gmail.com, creativetotsmason.com , Grades: Toddler: 18 months-3 yrs, Preschool: 3-4 yrs; Pre-K: 4-5 yrs

MONTESSORI Central Montessori Academy

At Central Montessori Academy, children from toddler (18 months) - 6th grade are taught by Montessori-trained teachers in environments that cultivate their natural love for learning. Children learn and develop self-confidence, personal creativity, grace & courtesy, and entrepreneurial spirit at their own pace, building self-esteem, while being taught as individuals. We offer extended day programs for both before and after-school. Call today to schedule a tour! • 1904 Springdale Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45231, Phone: (513) 742-5800, centralmontessoriacademy.com

Little Sprouts Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten

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

Mercy Montessori Center

Mercy Montessori is Cincinnati's first Catholic Montessori elementary school and provides students with a personalized education. Mercy offers a sliding scale tuition model, in-school swimming instruction starting at age three, and attracts students from over 60 zip codes. Mercy educates the whole child and develops a strong foundation for learning.

• 2335 Grandview Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45206, Contact: Amanda Grimm, Admissions Director, Phone: (513) 475-6700 ext. 210, Email: agrimm@ mercymontessori.org, mercymontessori.org , Grades: Preschool - 8th Grade, Enrollment: 296

The New School Montessori Cincinnati's only school accredited by the American Montessori Society. Centrally located and surrounded by wooded play yards and gardens, students benefit from a nurturing environment where Montessoricredentialed staff support high academic and personal achievement. Full-day, half-day with healthy lunches included in tuition. ISACS and AMS accredited program.

• 3 Burton Woods

Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229, Contact: Ceara Comstock, Phone: (513) 281-7999, Email: ceara.c@newschoolmontessori.com, newschool montessori.com , Grades: 3-year-olds through Grade 6, Enrollment: 144

NON–PUBLIC Bishop Leibold School

When you join the Bishop Leibold Family, you join a community of students and families, a caring staff, and three parishes dedicated to providing your child with an excellent Christ-centered education. We serve students in preschool (3 years old) through eighth grade! Contact us today to learn more . • 6666 N Springboro Pike Dayton, OH 45449 | 24 S. Third St. Miamisburg, OH 45342, 937-434-9343 | 937-866-3021, bishopleibold.org

Cincinnati Christian Schools

CCS has been creating lifelong learners, creative thinkers, passionate disciples, and visionary leaders for over 40 years. Our graduates are welcomed at universities because they’ve become the natural learners and inquisitive students that God created them to be. CCS knows that faith and learning go hand-in-hand. Outstanding. Proven. • Elementary Campus: 7350 Dixie Hwy, Fairfield, OH, 45014, Junior/Senior High Campus: 7474 Morris Rd., Fairfield, OH, 45011, (513) 892-8500, Contact: Peggy Head, Director of Admissions, Email: peggyhead@ cincinnatichristian.org, cincinnatichristian. org , Grades: PS - 12

Creative World of Montessori

Creative World of Montessori focuses on the comprehensive education of students from age 3 to 12th grade throughout the Dayton region and the greater Miami Valley area. Designed to ignite a passion for learning while developing important life skills, Montessori education at Creative World of Montessori encourages active learning and helps build a well rounded, engaged student. We have locations in Miamisburg, Beavercreek, and Centerville. We also have preschools and learning center programs across the Miami Valley. • 6833 Wilmington Pike, Centerville, Ohio 45459, Phone: (866) 866-7339, Inspirechildren.com

Guardian Angels School

Guardian Angels School provides students in preschool through eighth grade with a faith-filled experience focused on academic excellence, whole child education, and attention to each child’s unique learning needs. As a school, we push all of our students to

earn their HALO through being Honest, Accountable, and a Leader to Others . • 6539 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati 45230, Contact: Mr. Corey Stoops, Principal, Phone: 513-624-3141, gaschool.org , Grades: Preschool - Grade 8

St. Helen School

Welcome to St. Helen where an amazing sense of community leads to academic excellence! Every day we strive to build character by living virtuously. Our ministry to model Catholic morals, values, and traditions while providing a structured, nurturing environment for each student to grow spiritually, academically, and emotionally. Our focus on faith formation and academic excellence prepares students to be life-long learners. A community that celebrates diversity, we welcome families all over the Miami Valley including military families from WPAFB. • 5086 Burkhardt Road Riverside, OH 45431, Phone: (937) 256.1761, sainthelenschool.org

The Summit Country Day School

Founded in 1890, The Summit serves students from 18 months to Grade 12. Full- and half-day Montessori programs for ages 18 months-age 6 begin the academic journey followed by a college-preparatory program (Grades 1-12). The Summit educates students spiritually, academically, physically, socially and artistically while offering the academic excellence and one-on-one guidance of a top-tier Catholic independent school. • 2161 Grandin Road (Hyde Park), Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: 513-871-4700, ext. 261, Email: pearl_e@ summitcds.org, summitcds.org

SPECIAL NEEDS Springer School and Center

For 50 years, Springer School and Center has empowered students with learning disabilities to lead successful lives. Springer offers a day school for students ages 6-14 and outreach programs and learning disability resources for students, parents and teachers in the Greater Cincinnati area. The Springer Experience. Success Starts Here. • 2121 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: Jill Wieging, Associate Admissions Director, Phone: 513 871-6080 ext. 211, Fax: 513-871-6428, Email: jwieging@springer-ld.org, springer-LD.org , Grades: 1 through 8, Enrollment: 200

THINGS TO DO

THURS 01–SUN 04 Strawberry Days at Blooms and Berries Berry picking, petting farm, bee train, bounce pad, barnyard 500, shopping, live music and food trucks during Strawberry Days! • Location: Blooms and Berries Farm Market, Time: 9a bloomsandberries.com

THURS 01–SAT 03 Milford Frontier Days The 61st Frontier Day celebration kicks off with the annual Thursday night parade followed by festival rides, games, food, entertainment and a market in Old Milford. • Location: Riverside Park frontierdaysmilford.com

THURS 01 Children’s Nature

Storytime Insects are fascinating creatures! Join us in the Children's Garden as we read "How to Build an Insect" and then use different materials to create bug art. • Location: Wegerzyn Gardens, Time: 11a metroparks.org

FRI 02–SUN 04 Summer Fair

For over 50 years, Summerfair Cincinnati has been supporting and promoting artists and the arts in Greater Cincinnati. Through the organization’s annual three day fine arts fair enough funds are raised to support awards, scholarships and exhibitions. With it’s many members and one employee a years worth of giving, promoting and having fun is accomplished. • Location: Coney Island, Time: Fri 12p-7, Sat 10a-7p, Sun 10a-5p coneyislandpark.com

FRI 02 Frog Stories Bring the little ones for some frog themed stories and activities to kick off the morning. Stay when the exhibit opens at 11 a.m. for even more fun. • Location: Farbach-Werner, Time: 10:30a greatparks.org FREE

Evening Hours at Bricktionary See what happens after dark with extended hours for Bricktionary: the ultimate LEGO® A–Z and the OMNIMAX® Theater. • Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, Time: 10a-7:30p cincymuseum.org

SAT 03 Morning Chores Join a farm staff member to experience a typical workday for a farm hand. Participants aged 8-12 will help with a variety of historic chores. • Location: Carriage Hill Historical Farm, Time: 8:30a metroparks.org

German American Day Join us for our German American Day celebrations with beer, food, and performances all day. • Location: Findlay Market, Time: 10a-4p findlaymarket.org

SUN 04 Horse Trail Rides Rides are approximately one hour and are walk-only on guided trails through the woods for ages 8+. Western tack is used. • Location: Carriage Hill Historical Farm, Time: 10a metroparks.org

MON 05 Crystal Clear Science: May the Force be with You You won't find Darth Vader here, but you'll find tons of hands-on STEM fun with Crystal Clear Science's

Spectacular Science Show, May the Force Be with You. For ages 5-12. Registration required. • Location: Harrison Library Branch, Time: 10:15a chpl.org

TUES 06 Kids Crew Bring your kids crew for playtime at the Levee. Weekly activities may include face painters, story tellers, magicians, arts and crafts and more! • Location: Newport on the Levee, Time: 11a newportonthelevee.com FREE

WED 07–SAT 10 Snake Week Sssssee and learn about several of Ohio’s native snakes on exhibit this week. A craft is available for a small fee.

• Location: Farbach-Werner, Time: 11a greatparks.org FREE

WED 07 Good Green Earth Petting

Farm Good Green Earth Farm offers a chance to experience animals directly in a safe and fun way with the Cincinnati Public Library. • Location: 4033 Gilmore Ave, Time: 1p chpl.org

THURS 08–SUN 11 Italianfest Enjoy many internationally recognized Italian and other local musicians while taking in the sites along Newport’s riverfront. Many of the area’s most popular Italian restaurants and vendors provide authentic Italian cuisine and children are entertained by rides, puppet shows, and games.

• Location: Newport's Riverboat Row italianfest newport.com

FRI 09–SUN 11 Charm at the Farm Enjoy an open air shopping vintage market located on a 56 acre farm in quaint Lebanon! The best local artisans and shops come together only three fabulous weekends a year exclusively at Charm at the Farm. This innovative market provides rustic gifts, furniture, and home decor all in one vibrant place. • Location: 4953 Bunnell Hill Rd., Lebanon, Times: Friday: VIP 4p-8p, Saturday: Early Bird 9a-11:30a, General Admission 12p-4p, Sunday: General Admission 10a-3p charmatthefarm.com

SAT 10–SUN 11 Upstander Weekend

Join CMC for a weekend full of events that will inspire you to make your own mark in the community. Come celebrate and uplift the changemakers in our community! • Location: Union Terminal and Holocaust & Humanity Center, Time: Saturday 8a-5p, Sunday 6p holocaustandhumanity.org

SAT 10 Bunny Encounters Pet a bunny’s soft fur in this bunny encounter! Registered participants will get to learn about, pet, and spend time with the farm bunnies in this 15 minute animal encounter. • Location: Gorman Heritage Farm, Time: 11:40a gormanfarm.org

Marching through Time This timeline event will focus on military history through the ages brought to life, including the Roman Legion, Holy Roman Empire Landsknechts, American Revolutionary War, Wayne’s Legion, War of 1812, Civil War, Mexican American War, WWI, and WWI. This family friendly event also includes demonstrations, and artifact displays. • Location: Heritage Village Museum, Time: 11a-5p heritagevillagecincinnati.org

Yellowsprings Street Fair 250+ vendors, 65 shops and eateries and a music & beer fest take over the historic town of Yellowsprings. The streets shut down and are full of family fun including live dancers, street performers and creative art. Location: , Time: 9a-5p yellowspringsohio.org/street-fair/

SUN 11 Bike Rodeo Come meet the Great Parks Rangers and learn about bike safety for a wheelie exciting afternoon! Kids ages 4–12 and their families will enjoy fun activities, education stations, and a ride around the trail. Kids must bring their own bikes. There will be a helmet giveaway while supplies last! • Location: Sharon Woods, Time: 1p greatparks.org FREE

Dayton City Market Dayton City Market is hosting its first ever vendor market at Riverscape. Enjoy a complimentary workout class at noon with Space Three Dayton. Enjoy live music, shop local artisans, clothing boutiques, and local food vendors. • Location: RiverScape MetroPark, Time: 12-5:30p metroparks.org FREE

TUES 13 STEM Fun: Soap Science

Discover the science behind soap at this fun program with experiments and hands-on activities. For ages 8-12, or younger with a grown-up. • Location: Reading Library Branch, Time: 2p chpl.org

WED 14–SAT 17 Turtle Week Join us for this exhibit featuring turtles and totally turtle activities. A craft is available for a small fee. • Location: Farbach-Werner, Time: 11a greatparks.org FREE

WED 14 Sensory Exploration: Let’s explore the prairies Take a walk through the Wegerzyn Garden prairie to explore your senses. Touch, smell, hear and even taste new things as we learn about plants, pollinators and prairies. • Location: Wegerzyn Gardens, Time: 9:30a metroparks.org

THURS 15 –SAT 17 SpiritSong

SpiritSong Festival is back this summer at Kings Island's Timberwolf Amphitheatre! Get ready for your favorite weekend of Christian music with TobyMac, CROWDER, Skillet, Lecrae, Truren Wells, Newsboys and more. • Location: Kings Island, Time: 3p visitkingsisland.com

THURS 15 Blippi The Wonderful World Tour Dance, sing, and learn with Blippi and special guest Meekah as they discover what makes different cities unique and special. Will there be monster trucks, excavators, and garbage trucks galore? You bet! So get ready to shake those wiggles out and OJ Twist your way through this brand-new musical party. • Location: Taft Theatre, Time: 6p tafttheatre.org

Wiggle Worms: Summer Bash Our Wiggle Worms program is back again for another year of fun! Come kick off summer with some fun! These programs are drop-in programs, parents/adults are required to remain and assist. • Location: Fairgrounds Recreation Center in Xenia, Time: 10a-2p gcparkstrails.com

FRI 16 Turtle Stories Bring the little ones for some turtle themed stories and activities to kick off the morning. Stay when the exhibit opens at 11 a.m. for even more fun. • Location: Farbach-Werner, Time: 10:30a greatparks.org FREE

Zoo-La-La One of the hottest events of the summer season, Zoo La La, is the region’s wildest party for a purpose. Zoo La La supports Zoo programming including the Living Classroom Education Access Fund, providing free educational experiences to children in need. Attire is “Zoo Chic.” • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Time: 6:30p cincinnatizoo.org

Baby Tours: Outside Art Walk This 40-minute experience will introduce you and your infant (ages 0-2) to the world of art with a tour designed to stimulate their developing minds. • Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, Time: 11a, 2p, 3p cincinnatiartmuseum.org FREE

SAT 17 Escape the Village Escape the Village is an escape room style challenge! Choose from one of our two escape room adventures

“Morgan’s Raiders of the Lost Art” or “Leaving the Station.” • Location: Heritage Village Museum, Time: 12p, 1:30p, 3p heritagevillagecincinnati.org

History Alive Days Visit the Village during History Alive Days for a guided or self-guided tour and meet interpreters in historical clothing doing demonstrations. There will be different demonstrations each day and they may include: woodcarving, broom making, textile demonstrations, food preservation, and an organ performance in the church. • Location: Heritage Village Museum, Time: 10a-5p heritagevillagecincinnati.org

WWE Supershow WWE Supershow is a live event or house show produced by World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). The show comprises a roster of Raw and SmackDown superstars as they take to the ring to unleash their extreme feats of athleticism, strength, and sensational showmanship. • Location: Heritage Bank Center, Time: 7:30p heritagebankcenter.com

City Flea The City Flea is Cincinnati’s original curated, urban flea market that takes place once a month at Washington Park. The Flea is a place to keep your dollars local, support small business and experience YOUR city in a unique and engaging way.

• Location: Washington Park, Time: 10a-4p washingtonpark.org

THROUGH SUN, JUNE 04

MON 12 Wiggly Worms Discover the world of worms and learn what they eat, how they survive and what environment they live in. A worm bin will be brought in order to have a hands-on experience with worms and soil and investigate why the underground world is so important to us! • Location: Mariemont Library Branch, Time: 11a chpl.org

STRAWBERRY DAYS AT BLOOMS & BERRIES FARM MARKET

TUES , JUNE 20

CINCINNATI ZOO NIGHT AT THE REDS STADIUM

Children’s Garden Wonders: The Wetlands Have you experienced the amazing Children's Garden at Wegerzyn? There are so many fascinating areas of the garden to explore and learn about so we will be doing a deep dive into each area this summer. This program will explore the wetland area of the children's garden and study the fish and other creatures that live there. • Location: Wegerzyn Gardens, Time: 2p metroparks.org

Create & Play: Through the Trees

SUN 18

Father’s Day Train Ride

Create a family memory aboard the Fathers Day train ride. Fathers can enjoy a complimentary seasonal brew as they ride through the countryside of Warren County. • Location: Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad, Time: 11a, 1p, 3p lebanonrr.com

Father’s Day at the Zoo Every dad that comes to the Zoo on Father’s Day will get in for FREE! Make the dads in your life feel extra special this year at the Zoo. • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Time: 10a-5p cincinnatizoo.org FREE

MON 19 Ethics and Dragons Embark on fun-filled adventures and exploration as you play Dungeons and Dragons® with Game Masters affiliated with the Cincinnati Ethics Center at the University of Cincinnati. Recommended for ages 1118. • Location: Westwood Library Branch, Time: 12p chpl.org

TUES 20 Cincinnati Zoo Night at the Reds Have a wild time with the Cincinnati Zoo! Visit us in the Fan Zone before the game to meet special animals and watch from the stands as animals from the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden parade around the field! • Location: Great American Ballpark, Time: 7:10p cincinnatizoo.org

Greene Grasshoppers: Bubble Fun

Designed to get kids, ages 6-9, out into the parks having fun while doing so. These are drop-in programs; parents are required to remain with the child/children. • Location: Fairgrounds Recreation Center in Xenia, Time: 6-8p gcparkstrails.com

WED 21 Kids, Cultures, Critters and Crafts Festival Family fun entertainment based on LTA’s A World of Possibilities programming will feature a mainstage of unforgettable cultural dances, international music, marionettes and puppets, children’s theater, storytelling, stilt walkers, jugglers, choirs, African drummers, crafts, and of course – the wonderful animals of the Cincinnati Zoo! • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Time: 10a-5p cincinnatizoo.org

Explore the galleries together while learning about art through guided activities and interactive games. Designed for children ages 2–6 and their caregivers. This month, imagine what you could uncover in Robert S. Duncanson’s landscape murals by peering through the painted trees. • Location: Taft Museum of Art, Time: 10:15–11a taftmuseum.org

THURS 22 Reds Day at the Zoo

Don’t miss an exclusive Q&A session at the Wings of Wonder Amphitheater with your favorite Reds players! • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Time: 11a-12p cincinnatizoo.org

FRI 23 What She Said Dance Party

Coney Island invites you to come and rock with "What She Said" band at Moonlite Pavilion as they play an irresistible blend of your favorite party rock and pop hits. • Location: Coney Island, Time: 7:30p coneyislandpark.com

A Happening with Pablo Party for a purpose and be one of the first to experience the exhibition Picasso Landscapes: Out of Bounds.

• Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, Time: 6p cincinnatiartmuseum.org

SAT 24–SUN 25 Carillon Historical Park’s Rail Festival

A two-day family fun event featuring free miniature train rides, live steam engines, model train displays, historical displays, train merchandise, rail vendors, and much more. • Location: Carillon Historical Park, Time: Saturday 9:30a-5p, Sunday 11a-4p daytonhistory.org

SAT 24 SunWatch Summer Fest

The day will feature vendors selling handmade arts and crafts, food trucks, educational programming about the site, information from our community partners, and more! • Location: SunWatch Park, Time: 10a-4p boonshoft.org

SUN 25 Show and Tell on the Farm

Eyes and Ears Can you tell by the shape of an animal's eye whether it is a prey or predator? Why do some animals have ears that stick out and some are hidden? Investigate eyes and ears on the farm through hands-on activities and more.

• Location: Chrisholm MetroPark Time: 2p yourmetroparks.net

MON 26 STEM Technology Day: Robots Robots are like us or are they? Come and discover Cubelets and what they can do and if they are like you! For students entering 1st and 2nd grade. • Location: Oakley Library Branch, Time: 1:30p chpl.org

TUES 27 STEM Fun: Stomp Rockets

Build, stomp, and fly a rocket! Using household supplies create your own launcher and paper rocket, and then set it in motion outside. For ages 8-12, or younger with a grown-up. • Location: Reading Library Branch, Time: 2p chpl.org

WED 28 Market Muscles Join Findlay Market and Quidwell this summer for healthy and fun Wednesday night. After you sweat it out in the Shed, head on over to Jane’s and grab yourself a much-deserved drink! • Location: Findlay Market, Time: 5:45p findlaymarket.org

THURS 29 Mud Ball Throwing Join us to celebrate International Mud Day! We’re taking the cornhole toss game to a whole new level. We’ll make our own mud balls and try our hand at throwing them at targets located throughout the Nature PlayScape. Be prepared to get seriously muddy! Perfect for all ages. No registration necessary for this drop-in program. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 3p cincynature.org

FRI 30 Goodnight Fireflies Enjoy a relaxing end to the day with an outdoor storytime on fireflies. After we read our books, we’ll go for a short evening stroll and discover the fireflies that like to come out early to begin their light show. Perfect for early elementary-aged children. Preregistration required. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 7:30p cincynature.org

ONGOING

2nd Street Market Fridays through Sundays. Local growers, bakers, culinary specialists and artisans fill this charming historical freight house. Reminiscent of European markets, it's alive with vendors, people and activity during market hours. • Location: Second Street, Time: Varies metroparks.org

Mud Day International Mud Day is June 29, so come and celebrate with us and enjoy everything mud: wading pools, mud building, murals and mud face painting, games and crafts for all. Dress for muddy fun and bring your friends for a special treat. • Location: Wegerzyn Gardens, Time: 10a metroparks.org

Pop Up Play June 6, 13, 20 & 27. Add a bit of creative fun to your day at Pop Up Play! Join Word Play Cincy and Dino Buddies on Tuesdays for games, adventures, craft projects and more!

• Location: Washington Park, Time: 4p washingtonpark.org

Summer Fun June 1-24. Don’t miss EnterTRAINment Junction’s Summer Fun Event! Buy a full price Do-It-All ticket to see all our great attractions and get a soft serve ice cream cone –FREE! And be sure to check out the buy ten items, get one free special! • Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, Time: 10a-6p entertrainmentjunction.com

Turtle Creek Valley Flyer June 3, 9, 16, 17. Experience a historic 1 hour and 15 minute round trip train ride on the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad. You will travel through the countryside of Warren County in Southwestern, Ohio. • Location: Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad lebanonrr.com

Summer Series for Kids Every Friday in June & July. Children ages 5-12 can join at the Park every Friday in June and July for art in nature workshops. From crafts to critters, kids will love learning in the great outdoors. Registration is required! • Location: Pyramid Hill, Time: 1p pyramidhill.org

Butterflies of the Meadow Through June 18. Wander through a conservatory meadow surrounded by butterflies in flight. Admire monarchs and blue morphos as they soar through wildflowers and a flowing waterfall. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to see what it’s like for butterflies in the wild and to learn why we must protect their habitats.

• Location: Krohn Conservatory, Time: 10a-8p Monday-Friday cincinnati-oh.gov

The Art of Fashion June 1-August 20. The Art of Fashion: Fay Applegarth Maddux features one-of-a-kind illustrations, advertising clothing and accessories in local newspapers from 1945-1965. The elaborate drawings were used for Reeds of Hyde Park, McAlpin's, Mabley & Carew, Pogue's, Shillito's, Tall Fashions, Macperth Sportswear and more.

• Location: Behringer-Crawford Museum bcmuseum.org

Fifth and Vine Live June 3, 10, 17 & 24. Are you ready to rock, Cincinnati?! Join us every Saturday night at Fountain Square to dance and sing-along to the anthems you know and love at Fifth & Vine Live! Each of the over 20 nights of free live shows features a fan-favorite cover or tribute band from across the region taking over Fifth Third Bank Center Stage. • Location: Fountain Square, Time: 7p myfountainsquare.com FREE

Cinderella June 22-August 6. Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella returns to our stage with its beautiful musical score featuring songs such as “In My Own Little Corner,” “Do I Love You Because You’re Beautiful,” and “Impossible.” The enchanting stage adaptation is your family’s chance to experience this timeless fairy tale live on stage! The hearts of princes and princesses of all ages will soar when the slipper fits! This enchanting classic is perfect for the entire family and children 11 and under. • Location: Lacomedia Dinner Theatre lacomedia.com

Cinema at Ziegler June 7, 14, 21 & 28.

Cinema features a free movie screening every Wednesday at Ziegler Park this summer and fall! Dust off those lawn chairs, grab a picnic basket, and join for a fun, relaxing evening on the Great Lawn.

• Location: Ziegler Park, Time: 9p zieglerpark.org FREE

Story Walk Enjoy hiking while reading Stella, Fairy of the Forest written by Marie-Louise Gay. Walk through the woods with Stella and her brother, Sam, as they look for fairies and explore the magic of the forest. • Location: California Woo ds Nature Preserve, Time: June 1- July 31, 7a-8p cincinnati-oh.gov FREE

Bricktionary Through June 30. Filled with over 150 models from the best selling book –Bricktionary. The exhibition includes some of the most mind-boggling LEGO® models from a life-sized orca whale to a massive Saturn V rocket and over 45 models from the imaginations of the world's greatest LEGO® builders – the Brickman team. • Location: Cincinnati Museum Center cincymuseum.org

PLEASE NOTE 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.