JULY/AUGUST 2020
(FREE)
GETTING REAL ABOUT RACISM {One family’s story}
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pregnant
during the
pandemic inside:
summer FUN GUIDE
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contents
JULY/AUGUST 2020 features
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Getting Real About Racism
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Preventing Summer Slide
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Pregnant During the Pandemic
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Moving on Your Mind
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Summer Fun Guide
One local family's story of being black in America, plus encouragement for talking about race with your kids.
How parents can keep the learning going all summer long.
Pregnancy during the time of COVID-19 looks pretty different. Here's what you can do to make your experience go as smoothly as possible.
Tips for selling your home in today's market.
Summer isn't cancelled! Our top picks for hot-weather fun all around town.
departments In Every Issue
Parenting
06 07 08 10
12 4 Important Reasons for
Letter from the Editor Our Cover Kids News & Notes Local Kids
Well-child Visits
Resources & Calendars 39 Fun & Wacky Calendar
Around Town 11 Hidden Gems:
The Cincinnati Art Museum's Art Climb
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37 Local Spotlight: The Little Exchange Fine Gifts
Sponsored Content 25 The Truth About
Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy and for Infants
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
MEET THE STAFF
WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE
Publisher Mary Wynne Cox mary@cincinnatiparent.com mary@daytonparentmagazine.com Associate Publisher + Creative Director Katie Clark katie@cincinnatiparent.com Editor Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@cincinnatiparent.com Advertising Hannah Mohler hannah@cincinnatiparent.com hannah@daytonparentmagazine.com Account Executive Trisha Brand trisha@cincinnatiparent.com trisha@daytonparentmagazine.com
Do the Work I have been thinking a lot about the Ouattara family, who is featured in our cover story, “Getting Real About Racism,” on page 15. They are a mixed-
race family living in the Midwest, and I don’t want to give away too much about the article because you need to read it, but … their experience has not been the rosiest. Does this surprise you? Based on the conversations that the country has been having about racism these past several weeks — and the fact that racism is still very much a part of our society — the Ouattara family’s story shouldn’t be surprising. Not every Black or mixed-race family has had experiences like the Ouattaras have had. But many have, and that’s why this story is an important one to tell, especially right now: We need to shine a light on the racism that many families deal with on a daily basis. As a society, we like to think that we’ve evolved — and in many ways, we have. But if the recent protests and unrest in our country are any indication, as well as stories like the Ouattara family’s, we still have a lot of work to do.
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So, what does that work look like for us as parents and caregivers? To echo Mother Teresa: “Love begins at home,” so there is much we can do within our families to be the change that we wish to see. In our article, Ibrahim Ouattara — father to the two adorable children on our cover, Souleyman and Djeneba — offers some wise advice: “Respect every creature and person you encounter, and respect yourself,” Ibrahim says. “Kids learn more from the way you live than by what you tell them. Learn more about the globe. Get out of where you’re from. See different worlds and cultures. Show them that there is beauty, wealth, love everywhere.” We’ve been given an unprecedented opportunity to evolve, as people who all share this world together. Let’s not waste it.
Production Manager Karen Ring karen@cincinnatiparent.com Community Outreach + Social Media Sarah McCosham sarah@cincinnatiparent.com Digital Publisher Wendy Hasser wendy@cincinnatiparent.com Events + Digital Editor Brooke Litherland brooke@cincinnatiparent.com brooke@daytonparentmagazine.com Billing billing@cincinnatiparent.com billing@daytonparentmagazine.com Contributing Writers Rachael Dupree, Jennifer Thompson, Haley Paddock Contact Us daytonparent@daytonparentmagazine.com cincinnatiparent@cincinnatiparent.com Cincinnati Parent Magazine and Dayton Parent Magazine are published monthly and bi-monthly. Copyright 2020 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.
OUR COVER KIDS
DJENEBA + SOULEYMAN
[ages] 7 and 9 years old
[favorites] COLOR Black FOOD Oranges SPORT Football Sherbert ICE CREAM TV SHOW Little Lunch Hino Oishi RESTAURANT BOOK El Deafo MOVIE ET ACTIVITY Crafts
[interesting fact about djeneba] I love to help people and am passionate about being a part of the Best Buddies program!
[when I grow up] I want to be a doctor.
Black Salad Basketball Mint chocolate chip Chasing Monsters Hino Oishi Last Kids on Earth Pacific Rim Fishing
[interesting fact about souleyman] I'm on the swim team and got 1st place in the divisional championships in the 200 Yard Free Relay!
[when I grow up] I want to be an electronic engineer or NBA Player.
COVER PHOTO BY:
GC Photography gcphotography.com
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NEWS & Notes
Our monthly roundup of news you can use
georgia peaches
in ohio
It simply isn’t summer without peaches, and The Peach Truck brings the freshest Georgia peaches to the Midwest. Each summer, the Nashville-based Peach Truck partners with Georgia Peach Growers to deliver the eponymous peaches to the masses. Over the last several years, the truck has developed something of a cult following, drawing massive crowds and press. (Jeni’s Ice Cream even created a seasonal flavor with their peaches!) The Peach Truck Tour is coming to Ohio this summer, making more stops than ever before. This year, the Peach Truck will visit more than a dozen southwest Ohio locations throughout the months of June and July. Visit thepeachtruck. com to preorder a fresh crate of Georgia peaches!
1 billion THAT’S HOW MANY DOLLARS AMERICANS SPEND ON FIREWORKS EACH YEAR, WITH ONLY 10% OF THAT SPENDING ON PROFESSIONAL DISPLAYS.
DID YOU KNOW? The designer of America’s 50-star flag was a teen from Lancaster, Ohio. In 1958, a history teacher assigned Robert Heft and his classmates at Lancaster High School to each redesign the national banner to recognize Alaska and Hawaii, both nearing statehood. Heft earned a B-. After he submitted his design to President Eisenhower and it was selected as the official national flag, Heft’s grade was rightfully changed to an A. Sources: The Columbus Dispatch; American Pyrotechnics Association
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Buy Books from The Garage! This summer is shaping up to be quite different than summers past, as many events have been canceled in the wake of COVID-19. Perhaps most notably — and sadly, if you’re a bookworm — was the cancelation of the Friends of the Library’s June Book Sale. Not only does this sale offer the best deals in town (summer reading? Done and done!), but the proceeds go to benefit Cincinnati’s wonderful public library system. While The Friends Warehouse remains closed, local bibliophiles can currently place orders for curbside pickup at the brand-new ‘Garage’. The Garage sells bundles of books and popular titles, as well as puzzles and other items. And the prices are second to none: board books are 5 for $5, beginning readers paperbacks are 10 for $10 and hardcover picture books are 5 for $10. Inventory will be featured on their social media channels, and you can place an order via direct message, emailing thegarage@cincylibraryfriends.org or calling at 513-665-3999.
cincylibraryfriends.org
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say cheese! LOCAL KIDS Summer is in full swing, and we’re here for it! Take a gander at these kids who are glad to be out in the warmer weather!
Lydia (5)
Penelope (2) and Sebastian (6)
Sammy (10) Max (8) and Ada (12)
WANT TO SEE YOUR CUTE KIDS ON THIS PAGE?
Kinleigh (15) and Payslee (13) Hanli (9), Blakeleigh (7), Coen (6) and Huxley (4)
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Let's keep the summer fun going! Email us a photo of your child enjoying themselves this summer to editor@cincinnatiparent.com, with the child’s first name, age and where the pic was taken, and your photo may appear here!
HIDDEN GEMS
WORDS BY SARAH MCCOSHAM
The Cincinnati Art Museum’s Art Climb The Cincinnati Art Museum is iconic. In addition to housing world-renowned works of art and hosting internationally recognized artists, the museum is also incredibly accessible and family friendly. Now, the Cincinnati Art Museum has taken its commitment to community engagement to the next level (literally) with the Art Climb. The Art Climb is a stunning work of art that marries form and function through a nine-story staircase. It’s 164 carefully laid steps that connect the Cincinnati Art Museum to the community. The Art Climb includes a staircase from the sidewalk at the intersection of Eden Park Drive and Gilbert Avenue and leading all the way up to the front museum entrance. This project connects the Cincinnati Art Museum to its neighbors in a dramatic and meaningful way. (A Cincinnati Metro bus stop is located at the bottom of the staircase.) Along the way, there are lots of spots to sit and take everything in. The Cincinnati Art Museum took great care to preserve as much of the natural landscape as possible, and the result is a sprawling
staircase that seems to rise out of the earth. At the top, there’s a pavilion where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Going forward, the Art Museum hopes the Art Climb can provide a space to incorporate outdoor art, opening its art to the community. For the health concerned, there’s a guardrail at the center of the staircase, which makes it easy to keep a healthy distance as you’re climbing. And while the Cincinnati Art Museum is fully handicapaccessible, the staircase is not. (However, the top landing will be made ADA compliant with the addition of a ramp during the Art Museum’s next building phase. Additional accessible ramps are part of future phases on the museum grounds, as well.) As southwest Ohio begins to reopen its doors and emerge from COVID-19, the Art Climb is a glorious reminder that we are all connected, and that our area is truly someplace special.
953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati
cincinnatiartmuseum.org
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PARENTING
BROUGHT TO YOU BY DAYTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL
4 Important Reasons for Well-child Visits “Well-child visits create an environment where parents, children and providers work together and build a relationship around a child’s health,” says Lisa Ziemnik, MD, program director at Dayton Children’s Hospital. “Seeing one another regularly helps providers to get a fuller, clearer picture of a child’s overall health background.”
As a parent, you seek medical attention when your child is sick. But an appointment for a wellchild visit may not seem like an obvious need when your child seems to be healthy and growing at a normal rate. However, well-child visits, which are regularly scheduled doctor appointments based on the age of your child, are important to your child’s overall health.
Parents can work with a pediatrician to schedule their well-child visits. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), well-child appointments begin in the first week of a child’s birth and continue through adolescence at regularly scheduled intervals based on age. Each visit typically includes a physical, a growth and development assessment, an update on immunizations and time to allow parents to bring up any questions or concerns they may have. One important distinction to make is that sports physicals and well-child visits are different appointments and do not substitute for one another.
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According to the AAP, here are four reasons why well-child visits are important: 1) They allow parents, children and providers to be a team. Parents and children build a relationship with their pediatrician when they see one another regularly and work together to understand the child’s health. 2) They track growth and development. During these appointments, the pediatrician may cover a child’s eating, sleeping, learning, behavior patterns and more with parents. Pediatricians can track these patterns from appointment to appointment, making it easier to see if there are any issues.
3) They give parents time to address concerns. If there are any concerns parents may have with any of the growth and development topics above, this is a great time to get the provider’s perspective and input for how to proceed with future healthcare needs. 4) They prevent illness and future issues from occurring. Well-child appointments can include updated immunizations when needed to prevent illnesses. Also, parents once again have the ability to bring up their concerns and questions with the pediatrician. If you have any questions about scheduling well-child visits or what to expect in the appointments, contact your pediatrician’s office and they can help answer your questions and get your regularly scheduled well-child visits on track.
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GETTING REAL
ABOUT RACISM One local family’s story of being black in America, plus encouragement for talking about race with your kids. WORDS BY TESSA JUDGE // ILLUSTRATION BY LYDIA BIRD
L
et’s start with a story, in the words of Kelly Ouattara, wife of Ibrahim Ouattara, mother of 9-year-old Souleyman and 7-year-old Djeneba:
“My kids were about 3 and 4 years old and we were at a park. A little boy came up to Souleyman and said, ‘Why is your skin that color? You need to change that color. You need to be white.’ I didn’t want to panic my kids, so I quickly picked up all our belongings and headed to the car, but I knew I would be so full of regret if I didn’t say something to the mother. I quickly walked back with my kids. I was shaking, but I told her what her son said to my son before saying, ‘I do not blame your kid. It is not his fault. I blame you. You have taught him this. You need to do better.’ And then we quickly left the park. I remember never wanting my child to feel that again and vowing to teach my kids to be proud of who they are so they can face people like that.”
When Kelly and Ibrahim met one day out and about in Broad Ripple, they were engaged just three weeks later. “We didn’t get married for another year, but yes,” Kelly says, sheepishly. “We were engaged after three weeks.”
Fourteen years later, the couple is still happily married, now with a son and daughter in the mix. While their lives are full of love, laughs and lake days, the Ouattara’s also face the unique challenges that come along with being in a biracial marriage and family. Kelly is a white woman, born and raised in Indiana. Ibrahim is a black man, born and raised in the West African country of Mali.
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Speaking from experience, Kelly and Ibrahim have some thoughts on how and when parents should teach their kids about race and racism in the United States: KELLY: It’s a conversation that parents need to have with kids no matter what, sooner rather than later. I hear white parents say, “But I don’t want them to see color.” You can and you should see color. I don’t like when white parents think that they shouldn’t talk about racism with their kids because “that might teach them to think like that,” because you should also be living by example. If they’re seeing you treat people right every day, they’re going to do the same thing. But they need to know about race and racism because it’s there. It’s our world, so we have to start talking about it early. You can explain all sides! Kids understand good guys and bad guys. There are bad guys who treat people differently because of their skin color. But there are good guys who do the right thing, treat people fairly and try to help. Those are the people you should teach them to be. “In many places when you’re an interracial couple, you get more attention,” Ibrahim says. “People’s eyes stay with you, and sometimes you can see them talking about you. It makes you feel like you don’t belong, like you’re not accepted. Also as an interracial couple, you never feel like you fully belong to either side, and you have to teach your kids that they will stand out.”
As a black man in America, Ibrahim experiences bias and racism. He recalls walking into a Chick-Fil-A with the family and feeling all eyes bore into him, while a girl fawned over their young daughter, gushing about how much she “loved mixed babies.” He tells story after story of being pulled over for no reason, only to be asked by the police officers where he’s going and why. He remembers going to a wedding and being stuck in a conversation with a white man who insisted on telling him about every black person he’d ever met. This seems to be the Black Man in America Starter Pack, and the Ouattara’s do their best to stay positive about it.
“We get angry about these things sometimes, but we also try to see the positive. Brownsburg is pretty diverse now, but we do have neighbors that we know are not used to it yet, based on what they post on Facebook. But they have been nothing but nice to us face-to-face, so we try to ignore what we see online and go by how they treat us,” Kelly explained. “We hope that we can be the people — especially my husband — who expose them to black and multiracial people in a positive way.”
If this seems like a large burden for a family to bear, it is. Luckily, every family has the opportunity to help lighten their load. Explaining what’s going on in the world to kids can feel really difficult for many parents, especially white parents. But what families are now understanding is that it’s never too early to start honest conversations about race in your home.
IBRAHIM: Lead by example. Abide by the code of respect. Respect every creature and person you encounter, and respect yourself. The kids learn more from the way you live than by what you tell them. Every decision you make is going to affect someone somewhere, whether you like it or not. If you’re always talking badly about a specific group, your kids are going to naturally assume they are bad. So, be kind. As parents, it’s your responsibility to teach your kids, so you need to self-educate. If you’re not teaching yourself, what are you going to teach your kids? Learn more about the globe. Get out of where you’re from. See different worlds and cultures. Sign your kids up for student exchange programs so they can see other parts of the world. Show them that there is beauty, wealth, love everywhere. For example, Americans usually associate Africa with poverty, disease, war, illiteracy, nothing good. But that’s not what Africa is. I know that.
This is a ground-shifting moment in our country’s history. We have an obligation - especially those of us who have benefitted from the systemic racism that has for so long held black and brown communities back - to shift with it. It probably won’t be perfect and you definitely won’t have all the answers, but you can and should start the conversation about race with your kids today. In doing so, you’re helping to build a brighter and more just world for every race. A world in which a child isn’t confused by another child’s skin color on the playground. A world in which black mothers don’t worry about seeing their child’s death on the national news.
Because yes, all lives matter. But all lives don’t matter until Black Lives Matter.
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Books to Help You Talk to Your Kids About Racism To help encourage honest and productive conversations about race and racism in your own home, we’ve compiled a list of books that are worth diving into and learning from. From picture books to graphic novels to memoirs and personal essays, there’s a book on this list for every reading and maturity level. BONUS: Support your community by seeing what's available for curbside pickup at your favorite library branch or local bookstore! And if your bookstore doesn't have it in stock, they can likely have it shipped directly to your house from their warehouse.
8. We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga Written by Traci Sorell; Illustrated by Frané Lessac
9. Sulwe Written by Lupita Nyong'o; Illustrated by Vashti Harrison
10. Malcolm Little: The Boy Who Grew Up To Become Malcolm X Written by Ilyasah Shabazz; Illustrated by A.G. Ford
Chapter Books/Middle Grade 1. My Family Divided: One Girl's Journey of Home, Loss, and Hope Written by Diane Guerrero
2. Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice
Picture Books/Early Readers
Written by Phillip Hoose
1. The Undefeated
3. To Kill a Mockingbird
Written by Kwame Alexander; Illustrated Kadir Nelson
Written by Harper Lee
2. Black Is a Rainbow Color
Written by Pam Muñoz Ryan
Written by Angela Joy; Illustrated by Ekua Holmes
3. Saturday Written and illustrated by Oge Mora
4. Hair Love
4. Esperanza Rising 5. What is Race? Who are Racists? Why Does Skin Colour Matter? And Other Big Questions Written by Claire L. Heuchan and Nikesh Shukla
Written by Matthew A. Cherry; Illustrated by Vashti Harrison
6. Maniac Magee
5. Something Happened in Our Town: A Child's Story about Racial Injustice
7. Bud, Not Buddy
Written by Marianne Celano, Marietta Collins, Ann Hazzard; Illustrated by Jennifer Zivoin
6. My Hair is a Garden Written and illustrated by Cozbi A. Cabrera
7. Separate Is Never Equal: Sylvia Méndez and Her Family's Fight for Desegregation Written by Duncan Tonatiuh
Written by Jerry Spinelli
Written by Christopher Paul Curtis
8. The Skin I'm In Written by Sharon G. Flake
9. Ghost Boys Written by Jewell Parker Rhodes
10. Miles Morales: Spider-Man Written by Jason Reynolds
For the complete list, including options for teens and adults, visit cincinnatiparent.com/books- about-racism. July 2020 I swOHIOparent.com
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WORDS BY SARAH MCCOSHAM
Preventing Summer SLIDE How parents can keep the learning going all summer long.
As parents, we wear many hats. This spring, parents were asked to wear yet another hat: teacher. For many parents, distance learning was a struggle; we felt like our teaching efforts just weren’t enough. And now, we’re in the thick of summer, with the eponymous “summer slide” serving as a big, ominous elephant in the (class) room. We made it through spring homeschooling, and now summer is here, so… now what? We talked with local educators to better understand the summer “slide” and get tips on how to continue learning over the summer… and it’s a lot easier than you might think!
Summer learning 101 Simply put, the ‘summer slide’ is a decline in academic abilities and skills that occurs over the summer when school isn't in session. The summer slide happens even in the most ‘typical’ of years -- but this year, this phenomenon is even more of a concern, since kids have effectively been out of school since mid-March.
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“Given this year’s predicament, it's important for parents to be proactive in continuing to keep their child’s skills fresh,” says Alyssa Hoffman, a third-grade math and science teacher at Maple Dale Elementary. However, Hoffman adds that summer learning doesn’t have to be super regimented. “Anything that is keeping students’ brains engaged and using critical thinking skills is great!” she says. Chelsie Hoskins, a high school English teacher at Cincinnati Public Schools and adjunct faculty member at Miami University, adds that, in addition to academics, parents should also focus on their kids’ socialemotional well-being. “It is important to remember that children are dynamic entities that can absorb and retain skills and information with ease,” Hoskins says. “Promoting a caring, open environment in which students feel equipped to ask questions while staying safe is, in my opinion, the most important thing parents can focus on this summer.”
Here are a few ways parents can encourage summer learning:
Read every day Reading is one of the easiest ways to keep kids engaged and learning through the summer. Most educators recommend at least 20 minutes a day of reading, and this can be anything from e-books and games to even recipes or instructions.
This year, local libraries are making summer reading easier than ever. From online resources to virtual reading challenges, local libraries are stepping up to keep kids reading all summer long. And be sure to make reading a family activity — the library’s programs are open to everyone from babies to adults! “As much as is able, I would encourage parents to take part in activities with their students,” Hoskins says. “Learning isn't just for [kids], and the more [parents] take part with their students, the more fun [everyone] will have.”
Make math matter Math is one of the skills that suffers most during summer break, so make sure to carve out time for this important subject every day. This spring, your kids’ teachers likely emailed lessons or sent home course packets, so take advantage of those resources! Your kids also have access to online resources from school, Hoffman says, adding that many of these websites stay active through the summer. Simple things like counting money, measuring ingredients for cooking, and even LEGO building, all encourage math skills. “Learning over the summer doesn’t have to be complicated,” Hoffman says.
Explore the world from home Technology gets a bad rap, but this spring, it literally provided kids a gateway to the world. From Cincinnati Museum Center’s STEM-spired Wonder Zone videos (think Bill Nye the Science Guy, but with CMC) to The Cincinnati Zoo’s “Home Safari” sessions on Facebook Live (videos of fan-favorites like the flamingos,
giraffes, elephants and, of course, #TeamFiona), take advantage of these educational resources.
Embrace the Great Outdoors There’s no better classroom than the Great Outdoors. “There are many opportunities for students to learn about the world around them,” Hoskins says, and lots of fun ways to turn the outdoors into easy lessons! Hoskins suggests taking kids on backyard scavenger hunts and then having them write a descriptive paragraph or draw a picture about the experience.
fitness classes offered through CB at Home, or the YMCA’s “Y Virtual” videos, which offer options from Barre and yoga to bootcamp.
However, you don’t have to sign up for classes to make physical fitness part of your summer — take the kids to a bike trail or go hiking at a local park.
Parents: You’re amazing! “You didn’t sign up for homeschooling and it's a tremendous responsibility added to your plate,” Hoffman says. But with a little effort, your kids will start the upcoming school year right where they need to be.
For parents looking for a more structured experience, the Great Parks of Hamilton County’s Parks@Home series brings nature and conservation education straight to local homes, 24/7. And in lieu of traditional summer camps, Great Parks is offering virtual day camps, which include online meetings, at-home activities and live video interaction.
Virtual camp FTW Speaking of summer camp, many places have moved their camps online (thanks, Zoom!). From dance and theatre to STEM and the arts, your kiddo can enjoy a top-notch camp experience this summer — from home. For example, the Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati has moved all its camps online, offering half-day camps in the morning or afternoon. These online offerings are convenient for parents — and let someone else do the “teaching.”
Don’t forget PE! Physical education is just as important as mental, so get moving! If you’re looking for some at-home options, check out Cincinnati Ballet Company’s
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PREGNANT DURING t h e
PANDEMIC
Pregnancy during the time of COVID-19 looks pretty different. Here’s what you can do to make your experience go as smoothly as possible.
WORDS BY RACHAEL DUPREE
Masks. Telehealth appointments. Cancelled birth classes. Forced isolation. For mothers preparing to give birth in the year 2020, things have looked a lot different than they did not all that long ago. The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has turned the birthing experience upside down, filling what would normally be an exciting, joyous time with anxiety and uncertainty.
Pauley’s feelings are not unique to pregnant mothers during this pandemic. On one hand, quarantine restrictions have provided the opportunity for extra rest and time to prepare for baby, while at the same time throwing in new hurdles to pioneer. Perhaps one of the hardest things about pregnancy during the time of COVID-19 has been not knowing what to expect day to day. With government guidelines and hospital policies changing seemingly every day in response to the mysterious and unpredictable disease, pregnant mothers have had difficulty making solid plans for their prenatal care and birth.
“Some days I’m scared to death, and other days I’m like, let’s just do this and get it over with,” says Kandice Pauley of Dayton, who was 31 weeks pregnant with her first child when we talked in May, just as coronavirus restrictions were beginning to lift across the country.
Now more than ever, communication between you and your care provider and support team — along with a healthy dose of f lexibility — is critical. With the conversation changing every day, here are some things you should consider discussing with your partner and birth team as you prepare for birthing day.
Planning for the Unexpected
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PRENATAL CARE Many care providers are adjusting their office spaces and schedules to minimize the risk of disease spread. Like Pauley, you may be asked to space out your in-person appointments or do appointments that don’t require lab work via telehealth. During the most restricted times, partners haven’t been able to attend ultrasounds, which was the case for Pauley’s husband when she went in for her second screening. If any of these things don’t feel right, ask your provider about options. Maybe you can continue visits in-person on a normal schedule, or allow family members to participate in other ways, such as calling in to appointments or viewing the ultrasound via video chat.
THE HOSPITAL Planning for labor has perhaps been one of the most nerve-wracking parts of being pregnant during the pandemic. Pregnant moms have had many concerns: Will I be alone at birth? Where do I enter the hospital? Will I get tested for COVID before I can enter?
“A big part of addressing those types of anxieties with women is continuously communicating what is true,” says Bethany Dykman, a Dayton-area doula and founder of Strength Love Birth. "Yes, things are uncertain right now. But you are strong. You have the ability to be f lexible.”
Communication is also key. As Dykman noted, policies on entrance procedures, visitors, movement through the hospital, and the duration of your stay differ among hospitals and at different stages of the pandemic, so check in regularly with your provider about these ongoing changes.
As testing capabilities increase, many hospitals are scheduling COVID tests for Cesarean sections and inductions, and are performing tests on laboring women when they show up at the hospital. Hospitals typically have a separate birthing space and restrictions for COVID-positive mothers, so discuss with your provider ahead of time if you have concerns.
BRINGING HOME BABY
Talk to your pediatrician prior to birthing day about when and how to introduce baby to family and friends. Some families are choosing to do drive-by visits with the baby on the front-lawn, while others may be more comfortable allowing visitors in the house if they’ve quarantined or follow certain hygiene practices.
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“The family should know warning signs of ill health in their little one and know when to call the doctor, and likewise for the health of postpartum mom,” Dykman says. “It's really important at any time, but especially now, to know what is normal in the early weeks and what is not with both mom and baby.”
YOUR SUPPORT
Don’t overlook your own prenatal and postnatal mental health as you navigate pregnancy and birth. As Pauley found, in-person supports, such as birthing classes, new-parent groups and family visits, are limited during the pandemic, and this can take a mental toll. Talking to your provider about virtual birth classes and support groups, and doing things like having a friend set up a meal train, can help to make you feel less alone. Also, by learning the signs of postpartum depression and setting up lines of support ahead of time, you can easily get help if you need it.
Remember the Big Picture Preparing to give birth is a profound and intimate time for your family. As you go head-to-head with changing hospital policies and other obstacles to your ideal birth, remember that many of these things are put in place to help keep hospital workers and you safe. But that doesn’t mean you don’t have a voice. Continue to ask questions and advocate for yourself and your baby. If that means switching to a provider that better aligns with your concerns or birthing at home because it makes you feel safer, that is OK and things many mothersto-be are doing during this time, Dykman says. This is your family and your birth — and no virus, not even COVID-19, can take that from you.
DO YOUR HOMEWORK Check out these resources to keep abreast of the covid-19 and how it will affect your pregnancy and birth: Periodically check your hospital’s website for updates on their COVID-19 policies. Get the latest coronavirus guidance via the CDC (cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra- precautions/pregnancy-breastfeeding.html) and American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (acog.org/en/Topics/COVID-19). For a resource page listing the latest in COVID-19 research as it relates to pregnancy and birth, check out Evidence Based Birth (evidencebasedbirth.com/ covid19).
SPONSORED CONTENT
The Truth About Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy and for Infants The spine and nervous system control all parts of the human body. When a mother’s egg is fertilized and pregnancy begins, cells start to multiply and divide. The cells first create the brain and spinal cord. From the spinal cord, little branches of nerves begin to spread outward. The combination of the brain, spinal cord and nerves become the central nervous system. Once the central nervous system is in place, buds will form at the end of nerves. These buds are the beginning of all the vital organs such as the heart, liver and kidneys. The human brain controls every microscopic cell within the body and the brain communicates with each of the millions of cells via the nervous system. This is how the brain delivers the necessary energy and instructions to every part of your body to make it function. Bones or joints may become misaligned and nerves can become irritated, pinched, stretched or compressed which cause inference in the flow of energy from the brain through the nervous system. When this energy is distorted or blocked, a variety of symptoms will surface including pain. As a baby starts to develop and continues to grow, an expectant mother is experiencing 9 months of
increasing stress on her bones, muscles and joints which can create subluxations.
Our care is safe, gentle and effective. For over 27 years, Dr. Paul Baker DC, Dr. Patrick Baker DC, and the Baker Chiropractic and Wellness team have been treating pregnant women, infants, and patients of all ages. If you or your child are experiencing any of the above symptoms, schedule a new patient appointment today.
Our chiropractic care keeps mothers-to-be free from subluxations and the pain and discomfort that are caused by these subluxations.
Baker Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy: 1. Maximizes health
NEW PATIENT SPECIAL
2. Controls symptoms of nausea 3. Reduces the length of labor and delivery 4. Relieves neck, back and joint pain 5. Prevents potential cesarean section and breech births, includes flipping breeched babies 6. Increases oxygen and blood flow to the baby 7. Reduces delivery times
Baker Chiropractic Care for Infants: The birthing process can be a traumatic experience as a result of the pulling and twisting commonly performed. This process will often create problems in an infant’s delicate neck and back resulting
in July for Cincinnati Parent Readers:
in misalignments of the spine and subluxations (interferences) in the infant’s central nervous system. The pinching and irritation of nerves from subluxations can lead to a variety of health issues in babies.
Common Symptoms Treated with Chiropractic Include: 1. Colic, fussiness and irritability 2. Sleep irregularity 3. Constipation
NEW PATIENT APPOINTMENT: $65 Includes X-Rays, Consultation, and Adjustments Include a 30-minute massage for only $20 additional CALL 513-561-CARE (2273) in July to schedule at one of our three locations (Cincinnati, Fairfield, and West Chester). Tell us you would like the CINCINNATI PARENT JULY SPECIAL.
Visit bakerchiropractic.org for more information.
4. Difficulty feeding
BROUGHT TO YOU BY July 2020 I swOHIOparent.com
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MOVING ON YOUR MIND Tips for selling your home in today’s market. WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON
A re y o u c o n sid e rin g se llin g y o u r h o m e ? If so , y o u m a y b e w o n d e rin g w h a t to d o in to d a y ’s m a rke t. T h e se d a y s, s tre ss fu l d e c isio n s — like w h e th e r o r n o t to m o v e — c a n se e m e v e n m o re s tre ss fu l th a n b e fo re . To help ease some of that anxiety, we’ve interviewed two local realtors who offer some tips that will help you prepare your home for the day when the For Sale sign is up and the showings begin. Liz Lemon has a sellers representative designation and has been a full-time realtor for almost 17 years. Debi Gerbus began her real estate career in 1995 and is a sales vice president and honored to be a past Realtor of the Year in Cincinnati. Both Lemon and Gerbus work with Comey & Shepherd Realtors.
What is the No. 1 suggestion you have for someone who is trying to sell their home right now? Gerbus: Professional photography is more important than ever. How buyers shop for homes has changed drastically over the past few years, and having the best online presence utilizing things like virtual tours and drone videos is key. Lemon: Having a team of people you trust around you is critical. From your realtor, to a staging and design person, contractors to title companies finishing a sale, you want to have experienced and honest people on your side. Real estate transactions are exciting and most of the time provide a desired outcome. But, they can also include moments of stress and overwhelm. The people involved make all the difference!
What home projects will get you the most bang for your buck? Gerbus: Minor updating will reap huge benefits when getting your home ready for the market. Minor bath and kitchen updates, such as new lighting, fresh paint and new cabinet hardware go a long way in giving your home a trendy and updated feel. If you are financially able, you'll also realize a great return for items like granite counters and stainless steel appliances. Lemon: While location, location, location is still an appropriate motto for real estate, I would say that condition, condition, condition is a very close second. Provide a clean, tidy and neutral slate for potential buyers so that they can envision their own belongings and life in your space. Sparkling windows,
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fresh paint and things like fresh caulk and minor repairs can go a long way. Curb appeal is a big deal! New house numbers, fixtures and mailboxes are a smart idea and cost relatively little. The same with a new door (including garage door) or newly refurbished one, and fresh landscaping. First impressions are everything!
What home projects do not usually get the best return for the investment? Gerbus: When getting ready to sell, making major renovations don't always realize a huge return on your investment. Doing a total kitchen or bath renovation probably won't pay for itself in the end. Follow the guidance of an experienced realtor who knows the comps in your area and can guide you accordingly. Lemon: Anything too taste-specific can backfire. Also keep in mind that older mechanics or a roof may need to be replaced just to sell. They are often considered maintenance by buyers. While you might get some return, don't expect to get dollar-for-dollar back on some of the home improvements that aren't as fun. Too much landscaping or pools often hurt more than they help.
Any other words of advice? Gerbus: With interest rates at historic lows and low inventory in our market, there truly has never been a better time to sell. We are finding the most difficult part is finding your next home without your current home being on the market. Sellers are afraid to sell and not have a plan for their next move, and buyers are frequently losing out in multiple offers because of the lack of homes on the market. Lemon: Now is a great time to sell. There are plenty of buyers out there looking for homes, especially with such favorable interest rates. Get completely ready for the market before trying to market your home and listen to your realtor about how and when to market to potential buyers. Too early on social media can add stress and net you less in the end. Also, try to see your home through a buyer's eye and don't take things too personally. Also, do renovations for yourself and enjoy them for a while before you sell, if at all possible. I often have sellers say, “This wasn't as hard and time consuming to do as I thought. Why did we do repairs and updates just to sell?! Our home looks so good now.”
2020
SUMMER FUN GUIDE
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FAMILY-FRIENDLY BIKE TRAILS
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9 PLACES TO EXPLORE IN OHIO
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SUMMER FUN LISTINGS
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7 CAN'T MISS ICE CREAM STOPS
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FAMILY-FRIENDLY
B I K E
T R A I L S
IN CINCINNATI & THE MIAMI VALLEY Strapping on your helmet and hopping on your bike is a great way to get some fresh air and get your body moving. Fill up your water bottles and explore Cincinnati and the Miami Valley on two wheels this summer!
Loveland Bike Trail Location: Loveland, Ohio (visit lovelandbiketrail.com/ directions to find parking options) The Loveland Bike Trail is perfect for beginners: You start in downtown Loveland near a fun playground/picnic area, and can literally make the ride as long as you’d like. The trail is flat and shady, but can get busy. Go during a weekday or weekend afternoon to beat the crowds.
Lunken Airport
Ohio River Trail
Location: To park, take US Route 50 (historic Columbia Parkway and Eastern Avenue) to Ohio Route 125 (Beechmont Ave.) and turn right. Park by the driving range on the left side of the road.
Location: Riverside Dr. & Corbin St.
Airports make the best places to bike — they’re large, open and (most importantly) flat. This bike trail makes for a fun afternoon, and kids will enjoy watching planes come and go. The loop at Lunken Airport is best for older bikers, as it’s 5 miles long. It would also be a fun ride for parents pulling tots in a trailer — it’s nice and long, so you may even get the kids to take a little nap!
We’ve walked this riverfront trail and it’s just beautiful. Because you’re downtown, it’s best for older riders with better bike control. Start at Sawyer Point and meander over to Smale — this ride is more about the journey than the destination, as you’ll take in some iconic Cincinnati landmarks along the way! Right now, there are some beautiful flowers in bloom thanks to Cincinnati Parks.
Pioneer Park Location: 10505 Deerfield Rd., Montgomery This Montgomery Park is a total hidden gem, with a babbling creek, picturesque pond, woods and prairie, it’s a gorgeous natural
escape in the suburbs. There’s a half-mile loop around the park that takes you through the various natural areas. It’s a bit hilly and goes through the woods, making it a good option for kids craving a little bit of independence.
Summit Park Location: 4335 Glendale Milford Rd., Blue Ash This bike trail is just perfect for kids. There’s a massive runway that’s flat, wide and traffic-free. Ride through the woods and cruise down the path on Plainfield Road, and you can customize a ride that’s as long or short as you want. There’s also a path around the Great Lawn where kids can speed around like race cars at the Indianapolis 500.
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Voice of America Park Location: 7850 VOA Park Dr., West Chester
Miami Valley Trails Ohio’s Miami Valley region provides over 340 miles of paved, multi-use recreational trails. Stretching across county lines, these trails connect schools, parks, historic landmarks and area attractions. The Miami Valley Trails enhances both the wellness and quality of life of Miami Valley residents and visitors. All trails are free and open to the public every day of the year, from dawn till dusk. Find more trails and information at miamivalleytrails.org.
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This 1.4-mile loop features clear left/right lanes. The trail is slightly hilly, but mainly flat as it winds around a lake. It’s easy to see your kids as they ride around the trail; the only downside is that it can be a little windy at this Butler County MetroPark.
Ohio to Erie Trail Location: Xenia Station (south) to London, Ohio (north) The Ohio to Erie Trail is a statewide corridor of trails and on-road routes connecting the Ohio River in the south to Lake Erie in the north. In the Miami Valley, the route follows the
Little Miami Scenic Trail from Newtown to Xenia, and then heads north east along historic rail corridor. Along its entire route, the Ohio to Erie trail is designated Ohio Bike Route 1.
Little Miami Scenic Trail Location: Beechmont Ave. in Anderson Township (south) to Springfield (north) The longest single trail in the Miami Valley trail network, the Little Miami Scenic Trail provides miles of well-shaded trail with great destinations along the route. Two state parks, John Bryan and Caesar Creek, can be reached from the trail.
Mad River Trail Location: RiverScape MetroPark (west) to Huffman MetroPark (east) The Mad River Trail is a great way to get from downtown Dayton’s RiverScape to Eastwood MetroPark, the Creekside Trail, Huffman MetroPark and the Wright Brothers-Huffman Prairie Trail. The lion's share of the trail is relatively flat, offering an easy workout that even children will be able to handle, whether biking, skating or walking. At the very eastern end of the route three switchbacks take you up Huffman Dam for a spectacular view of the Mad River Valley!
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The Buckeye state is packed with activities and destinations for everyone, whether you’re a family of thrill seekers or nature lovers ― or both! Check ahead for any new safety restrictions that may be in place before you plan your family getaway.
Thrills & Attractions 1
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell
columbuszoo.org
If you think a zoo is a zoo, think again. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers a one-of-a-kind experience that’s truly aimed at getting families thinking about animals, the environment and conservation. The Columbus Zoo is huge; in each direction, you’ll experience different habitats and species, all designed to be interactive and accessible. 2
Cedar Point
1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky
cedarpoint.com
Located in Sandusky on the shores of Lake Erie, Cedar Point is a bit of a hike from South West Ohio, but well worth the drive. The park offers an unmatched collection of rides and attractions, including 17 roller coasters, four kids’ areas, Cedar Point Shores Water Park, overnight accommodations, live shows, restaurants and more.
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The Hocking Hills Canopy Tours
10714 Jackson St., Rockbridge
hockinghillscanopytours.com Known for its breathtaking views and wide range of outdoor adventures, Hocking Hills Canopy Tours offered the very first Canopy Tour in Ohio and the Midwest. Choose from several different tree-top tours, including the kid-friendly DragonFly Zip. 4
Young’s Jersey Dairy
6880 Springfield Xenia Rd., Yellow Springs
youngsdairy.com Playgrounds? Petting zoo? Mini golf?! Young’s Jersey Dairy is absolutely worth a trip to Yellow Springs. This family-owned gem is a real working dairy farm, where guests can watch the cows being milked — and then enjoy a bowl of homemade ice cream!
Beaches 5
East Fork State Park 3294 Elklick Rd., Bethel
One of Ohio’s largest state parks, East Fork in Clermont County is home to a beach on East Fork Lake. Additional camping amenities and trails for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking, as well as access to fishing and boating, make East Fork a must-see weekend getaway this summer.
OHIO
Cowan Lake State Park
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1750 Osborn Rd, Wilmington
cowanlakestatepark.com
A 1,000-foot public beach is located on the south shore of this 700-acre lake. Swimming is permitted during daylight hours only in designated areas. Sailing is also very popular on the lake: boat swimming and boat camping are located in the northern portion of the lake.
Caves 7
Olentangy Indian Caverns
1779 Home Rd., Delaware
senecacavernsohio.com Want to take your cave experience to the next level? Explore by flashlight! Olentangy Indian Caverns offers Flashlight Tours where the main lights are turned off and guests use only the glow of their flashlight to see the cave. Check out the 50,000-square-foot Animal Encounter and new Treasure Hunt Maze while you’re there, too.
Ohio Caverns
2210 E. State Route 245, West Liberty
ohiocaverns.com
Known as “America’s Most Colorful Caverns,” here you’ll find stunning rock formations in shades of blue, orange, white, red and black. The caverns are the largest in the state, with over two miles of passageways running in depth from 30 feet to 103 feet. Be sure to see the “Crystal King” while you’re there: a huge, perfectly formed white stalactite estimated to be over 200,000 years old.
Nature Destination 9
Franklin Park Conservatory
1777 E. Broad St., Columbus
fpconservatory.org
Located just two miles from downtown Columbus, The Franklin Park Conservatory sits on 13-acres of picture-perfect land. The Children's Garden features numerous unique, interactive experiences celebrating the Ohio landscape, the Children’s Garden will focus on introducing and connecting children to the natural world, as well as renewing that connection for their parents and caregivers.
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THE CITY HAS NO END OF OPPORTUNITY FOR SUMMER ENTERTAINMENT, LEARNING AND EXPLORATION. AND WHILE THIS SUMMER MIGHT LOOK A LITTLE DIFFERENT FROM SUMMERS PAST, THERE IS STILL A LOT FUN TO SQUEEZE OUT OF THE SEASON! CHECK OUT THESE COOL LISTINGS THAT WILL HELP YOUR FAMILY FILL THOSE HOT SUMMER DAYS.
Ritter's Frozen Custard in Beavercreek 2531 Dayton-Xenia Rd., Beavercreek, OH 45434
(937) 320-0772 | ritters.com/location.php?id=26 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 !
Loveland Canoe & Kayak 200 Crutchfield Pl., Loveland, OH 45140
(513) 683-4611 | lovelandcanoe.com At Loveland Canoe & Kayak we strive to create a family friendly environment that encourages the exploration and appreciation of the Little Miami River through fun, outdoor adventures. You will enjoy the Little Miami River as you paddle through some of the most beautiful, natural surroundings in the Tri-State region.
Cincinnati Recreation Commission Multiple locations
(513) 352-4000 | cincyrec.org CRC offers some of the best day camp experiences in the city. Through STEM, Sports, Arts & Culture and 7 great swimming pool locations, our day camps provide a way for our kids to have a safe and happy summer.
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[LISTINGS] Miami County Visitors and Convention Bureau 16 S Williams St., Dayton, OH 45402
(937) 231-5804 | visitnaha.com/boardingpass For a limited time, sign up for the National Aviation Heritage Area’s (NAHA) free boarding pass and take advantage of discounts on rides, retail, flight experiences and more at over ten aviation sites in southwest Ohio. See a full list of participating sites on our website.
Academic Learning Services 9200 Montgomery Rd., Bldg. E 18A, Montgomery, OH 45242
(513) 615-9015 | academiclearning.net Academic Learning Services provides core instruction and intervention services to children PreK through college. Certified educators and licensed specialists teach students individually and in small groups, incorporating educational best practices and current instructional methodologies. Summer enrichment sessions are available. Schedule today to reignite reading skills and multiply math concepts.
Snapology of West Chester Twp West Chester, OH
(513) 988-7363 | westchestertwp.snapology.com Snapology has the perfect line-up for your kiddos this summer! Virtual classes, birthday parties and camps provide at home LEGO build learning fun! Looking for safe in-person camp fun? We are offering small group, socially distanced half and full day camp fun in July & August! Virtual & In-Person Camp info can be found at bit.ly/snapcamps.
Summer Adventures to Go! Centerville-Washington Park District: 221 N. Main St., Centerville, OH 45459
(937) 433-5155 | cwpd.org An at-home camp experience offering nature-focused crafts, activities, games, and education. Counselors lead daily activities following a weekly theme. Guest speakers take campers on virtual field trips. Activity instructions, camp t-shirt, and supplies are included in a backpack! Ages 3-12
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EnterTRAINment Junction 7379 Squire Court, West Chester, OH 45069
(937) 763-3135 | entertrainmentjunction.com Let some Christmas Cheer get you through the Summer Heat! Chill out from July 1st thru July 31st with EnterTRAINment’s - Christmas in July. During our Christmas in July event you can visit EnterTRAINment and have an early check up with Santa himself*. Unfortunately, Santa won’t be able to visit in person due to international travel restrictions. After all, the North Pole is at…well… the North Pole. So, kids can chat with him, in a virtual face-to-face on our exclusive new “ZoomFace” system. Plus beat the heat! It’s always a cool 72 degrees inside the Junction so bring the whole gang over because there’s something to do for every age. Buy online and save!
Greene County Parks & Trails 635 Dayton Xenia Rd., Xenia, Ohio 45385
(937) 562-6440 | gcparkstrails.com Greene County Parks & Trails is here to save the summer! Starting the season with bike rides and walks, we will start to introduce more family fun programs such as the Wiggle Worms, Car Shows, Farmers Market, Summer Fest and more! Follow us on Facebook for current updates for events & programs.
Gotta Dance Studios 7892 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45255
(513) 232-9710 | gottadance-studios.com Convenient, affordable dance classes in Anderson and Mt. Lookout. Our professional staff teaches introductory through advanced levels: ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, pointe, hip hop and more. Non-competitive, safe environment where all students are accepted and challenged to excel – develop technique, self-confidence and performance skills through the art of dance!
BB Riverboats 101 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071
(859) 261-8500 | bbriverboats.com Daily Departures. Daily sightseeing, dining, and unforgettable views. Sailing from Newport Landing on the banks of the beautiful Ohio River, BB Riverboats offers lunch, dinner, kids and holiday cruises, plus many specialty cruises.
AR Workshop Centerville 101 E Alex Bell Rd., Ste. 162, Centerville, OH 45459
(937) 602-2945 | arworkshop.com/centerville AR Workshop®: a boutique DIY studio that offers hands-on classes for creating custom and charming home decor from raw materials. Join an instructor-led workshop to make customizable wood signs, frames, canvas pillows, round signs, lazy susans, centerpiece boxes, trays, chunky knit blankets and more.
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Aglamesis Brothers 3046 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209
(513) 531-5196 | aglamesis.com Step back into a simpler, gentler time and visit our nostalgic turn-of-the-century ice cream parlors. We make our products “The Sincere Way”, in small batches overseen by master confectioners.
ArtsConnect 9158 Winton Road, Cincinnati, OH 45231
(513) 522-2108 | TheArtsConnect.Us The Springfield Township Arts Center, managed by ArtsConnect is the home for art classes, camps and events for all ages. The center features a pottery studio, woodshop and four large classrooms for families to explore creativity. Music, drawing, painting, sewing, magic, stained glass, woodworking, photography, pottery, yoga, writing, blacksmithing and so much more awaits!
Holiday Auto Theatre 1816 Old Oxford Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013
(513) 929-2999 | holidayautotheatre.com The Holiday Auto Theatre is a drive-in movie theatre that opened in 1948 as the Hamilton Outdoor Theatre. The name was changed in 1951 to Holiday Auto Theatre. This drive-in has a capacity for 550+ cars and is open Spring, Summer and Fall.
Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum 1763 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013
(513) 868-1234 | Pyramidhill.org Pyramid Hill is one of the country’s largest sculpture parks with outdoor sculptures displayed in 300+ acres of natural landscapes. The museum displays sculptures dating to 1550 B.C. and contemporary artwork by regional and international artists. Open 365 days a year (weather permitting) with summer programs for children, and special events throughout the year. Experience Art in Nature!
YMCA Multiple locations
Cincinnati: myy.org/join | Dayton: daytonymca.org RESET YOUR SUMMER! Select outdoor pools and fitness centers are ready! Memberships available: join your local YMCA today to belong to a welcoming community of all ages and backgrounds. We'll help you achieve your goals and make new lasting relationships.
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7 CAN't MISS
Ice Cream STOPS IN SOUTHWEST OHIO
Nothing beats a scoop of ice cream on a hot summer’s day. Whether you are looking to stick close to home or are willing to drive to find that perfect sweet treat, we’ve rounded up the best of the best in ice cream shops in Southwest Ohio!
GRAETER’S Locations vary An Ohio favorite, this ice cream parlor with locations throughout Dayton and Cincinnati, is famous for its creamy, French Pot-churned ice cream that’s loaded with gooey, melt-in-your- mouth chunks of chocolate.
AGLAMESIS Oakley location: 3046 Madison Rd; Montgomery location: 9899 Montgomery Rd. This old-fashioned ice cream parlor is oozing with warm-and-fuzzy nostalgia. Sundaes are served in polished silver bowls, complete with house-made syrups (the strawberry sauce is particularly divine), nuts and fresh whipped cream.
CRAFT CREAMWORKS 7736 Dudley Dr., West Chester This artisan ice creamery in Butler County is the place to go for unique flavors. Choose from more than 70 options ranging from Fluffernutter to Apple Pie to Black Rasberry… and everything in between! Dairy-free and vegan options are always available.
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WALKER BROS. ICE CREAM 9425 Montgomery Ave., Montgomery This family-owned, walk-up ice cream shop specializes in soft serve creations – and kids’ scoops feature adorable, edible eyes!
THE CONE 6855 Tylersville Rd., West Chester You can’t miss this giant cone-shaped ice cream stop. The Cone is a family-favorite summer treat location. Famous for their orange sherbet/vanilla twist cone, they have amazing wizards, sundaes and other frozen desserts. Plus, there are lots of toppings and sprinkles to complete any ice cream order. Note: The toffee/caramel sundae is a must-try dessert!
RITTER’S FROZEN CUSTARD 2226 Wilmington Pike, Kettering This isn’t your average ice cream; this is frozen custard! One bite and you¹ll be able to tell the rich, creamy difference. Ritter¹s is made fresh all day, every day, using highquality dairy ingredients. Choose from cones, cups, sundaes, smoothies, glaciers and shakes.
YOUNG’S JERSEY DAIRY 6880 Springfield-Xenia Rd., Yellow Springs The ice cream at this working dairy farm is made on site, offering the ultimate in creamy, rich goodness. Five or 10 gallons are made at a time in batch freezers, taking about 12-15 minutes per batch, and flavors are added at different stages of the process. You can get ice cream in cones, milkshakes or sundaes.There are also special flavors that change on a weekly basis. Note: Young’s is famous for its Buckeye Bull Shake!
AROUND TOWN
WORDS BY HALEY PADDOCK
Local Spotlight: The Little Exchange Fine Gifts Retail therapy with a meaningful purpose. What types of items do you sell?
Bridal and baby showers, engagement and housewarming parties, holidays and birthdays — name a season and there is likely a long list of gift-worthy events right around the corner. Imagine for a moment that every time you purchased a gift for an occasion such as these, you’d be supporting an honorable cause at the same time. That’s exactly what occurs any time you shop at The Little Exchange (TLE) in the quaint city of Oakwood.
The shop began by selling hand-knit items, such as cashmere sweaters and adorable children’s clothing, but became a full-service gift boutique with bridal and baby registries, unique home décor, kitchen and entertaining items, and much more.
TLE is a non-profit boutique, run mostly by dedicated volunteers, that has been operating and benefitting Dayton Children’s Hospital since 1950. Dayton Parent spoke to TLE board president, Cathy Brown, to learn more about the heartwarming mission of this purpose-driven shop.
Can you tell us how TLE began? The concept of TLE was conceived by five prominent women in the Dayton community for the purpose of donating to deserving charities. At that time, money was donated to the Red Cross, Sightless Children, Barney’s Hospital and other small organizations. One of our original trustees, Mrs. George Mead, was
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THE LITTLE EXCHANGE FINE GIFTS
elected president of the Children’s Hospital Society of Dayton. This was the beginning of TLE’s mission to help build and then sustain the Children’s Medical Center.
Do all proceeds go directly to Dayton Children’s Hospital? All proceeds, which total $1.6 million, have continued to be donated to Dayton Children’s Hospital. As of 2015, our funds have been earmarked to the hospital’s Family Resource Connection, which has become an essential component of keeping our children healthy by addressing not just their medical needs, but also their basic social needs.
What are After Hours Parties at the boutique? We are always looking for different ways to expand our business. There is so much competition for the consumer’s dollars, so it is important for us to find fun and unique ways for our customer to shop. Our After Hours Parties are the perfect way to accomplish both goals by hosting an event while we are closed, allowing guests to shop privately with their friends. We have hosted book clubs, golf and tennis groups, service organizations, neighborhood associations and office parties.
In accordance with our mission, we try to choose brands that also choose as their initiative to give back to those in need. Two examples are Bella Tunno, who donates a meal for every baby product purchased, and Rahab’s Rope, who employs and helps girls after they have been rescued from human traffickers. Every little bit helps, and it is our honor to do our part.
To shop online, schedule an After Hours Party, set up a gift registry or learn how you can become a volunteer, visit thelittleexchange.org.
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CP EDUCATION GUIDE Mercy Montessori Center
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 relevance-based curriculum combined with child-directed play to make learning FUN and start each child on their journey to becoming a life-long learner. • 7900 E Kemper Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, theCampusKF.com, Phone: (513) 629-KIDS, 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
YMCA of Greater Cincinnati 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, MyY.org, Grades: Ages 3-12, Enrollment: Stop by any YMCA of Greater Cincinnati location or check with your local school district.
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MONTESSORI
Children’s Meeting House Montessori School Children's Meeting House Montessori School has been proudly educating students from preschool through 6th grade using the principles of the Montessori philosophy since 1972. CMH offers a variety of preschool, enrichment and before/after school options to meet each family’s needs. Partner with our devoted staff of experienced and Montessori trained teachers throughout your child’s most developmental years. CMH – where learning happens, naturally. Find out more or schedule a tour on our website. • 927 O’Bannonville Road, Loveland, OH 45140, Contact: Casey Reed, Director, Phone: 513-683-4757, Email: reed@cmhschool.com, cmhschool.com, Grades: Preschool through Sixth grade, Enrollment: 150
Country Hills 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 and Union, KY. Visit chmschools.com for all location addresses & phones. • Contact: Susan Schreiber, Owner, Email: susan@chmschools.com, chmschools. com/, Grades: 3 - K
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 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
Montessori Academy of Cincinnati Our goal is to instill a love of learning in each child and to assure a solid grounding in the basics of education that will help each student achieve his potential. We provide an outstanding, experienced staff, low student-teacher ratios, a nurturing, student-centered approach, and on-site before-school and afterschool care. • 8293 Duke Boulevard, Mason, Ohio 45040, Phone: 513-3987773, Email: info@montacademy.org, montacademy.org/, Ages/Grades: 18 months through 8th grade
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@newschool montessori.com, newschool montessori.com, Grades: 3-year-olds through Grade 6, Enrollment: 144
NON–PUBLIC
Guardian Angels School Guardian Angels School provides students in preschool through eighth grade with a faith-filled experience focused on academic excellence, whole child education, and attention to each child’s unique learning needs. As a school, we push all of our students to earn their HALO through being Honest, Accountable, and a Leader to Others. • 6539 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati 45230, Contact: Mr. Corey Stoops, Principal, Phone: 513-624-3141, gaschool.org, Grades: Preschool Grade 8
The Summit Country Day School Founded in 1890, The Summit serves students from 18 months to Grade 12. Full- and half-day Montessori programs for ages 18 months-age 6 begin the academic journey followed by a college-preparatory program (Grades 1-12). The Summit educates students spiritually, academically, physically, socially and artistically while offering the academic excellence and one-on-one guidance of a top-tier Catholic independent school. • 2161 Grandin Road (Hyde Park), Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: 513-8714700, ext. 261, Email: pearl_e@summitcds. org, summitcds.org
SPECIAL NEEDS
Springer School and Center For nearly 50 years, Springer School and Center has empowered students with learning disabilities to lead successful lives. Springer offers a day school for students ages 6-14 and outreach programs and learning disability resources for students, parents and teachers in the Greater Cincinnati area. The Springer Experience. Success Starts Here. •
2121 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: Jill Wieging, Associate Admissions Director, Phone: 513 871-6080 ext. 211, Fax: 513871-6428, Email: jwieging@springer-ld.org, springer-LD. org, Grades: 1 through 8, Enrollment: 200
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* SPONSORED LISTINGS
fun and WACKY DAYTON PARENT'S
CALENDAR
Did you know that there is an official holiday for just about anything you can think of? Here are a few fun days worth celebrating!
JULY 7/1
AUGUST
7/19 ICE CREAM DAY
8/1
Enjoy a cold, creamy treat.
JOKE DAY
Make ‘em laugh!
7/3 EAT BEANS DAY
Sisterly love!
7/22 HAMMOCK DAY
Relax and sway.
7/23 MECHANICAL PENCIL DAY
EAT A PEACH DAY
Savor this summer fruit.
SISTERS DAY
The magical fruit.
7/5
8/22
SPRINKLE DAY
Make some cupcakes!
8/9
MELON DAY
Watermelon, cantaloupe or honeydew?
8/12 WORLD ELEPHANT DAY
They never forget!
8/26 DOG DAY
Celebrate your canine best friend.
8/29 LEMON JUICE DAY
When life hands you lemons…
Make a “point” to celebrate
8/15 WORLD HONEY BEE DAY
7/8
Something to buzz about.
MATH 2.0 DAY
1+1=?
7/25 7/13
CAROUSEL DAY
It’s fun to go in circles.
8/16
8/30 TOASTED MARSHMALLOW DAY
Make a s’more!
TELL A JOKE DAY
Knock, knock?
INTERNATIONAL ROCK DAY
This day literally rocks.
8/19 PHOTOGRAPHY DAY
Snap some pics.
7/17 WORLD EMOJI DAY
Which one are you?
SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com
7/30 FRIENDSHIP DAY
Who is your BFF?
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