July 2022 | Southwest Ohio Parent

JULY 2022

(FREE)

INSIDE

Is It Time to Switch Schools?

SPECIAL BABY GUIDE * FUN GENDER REVEAL IDEAS * FUN PLACES TO TAKE BABY * CHOOSING A PEDIATRICIAN * And more!

contents

// JULY 2022

36

28

features

departments

12

Is It Time to Switch Schools?

In Every Issue

Parenting 10 Tips to Combat

Baby Guide

06 07 08 09

20

What to consider if you're thinking of changing your child's school.

21 Tips for Choosing Your Baby's

Letter from the Editor Local Kids News & Notes Our Cover Kid

Travel

Pediatrician

23 Baby's First Trip to the Dentist 24 Easy and Creative Gender Reveal Ideas 26 8 Places Around SW Ohio to Take Your Baby

Around Town Happy Hangout West Side

Paradise Ice

28 Local Spotlight: Findlay Market

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16 Cool Outings for a Hot Summer Day

11 Hidden Gems: 15 Little Foodies:

35

Boredom and Boost Creativity in Kids

Resources & Calendars 29 Education Guide 31 Things to Do in July 35 Fun & Wacky Calendar

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Publisher Mary Wynne Cox mary@ohparent.com

Associate Publisher + Creative Director + Advertising Katie Clark katie@ohparent.com

Editor Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@ohparent.com

Production Manager Karen Ring karen@ohparent.com

Always My Baby My kids are not babies anymore.

I know that’s a fact, but I sometimes forget. (Honestly, doesn’t every mom think of their children as their babies?) But lately, that fact has been driven home every time my family and I visit a restaurant that has a kids’ menu.

making his case for staying a kid, despite the kids’ menu telling him the contrary.

Because, you see, most kids' menus have tiny words printed somewhere on them that say something like: “For kids ages 10 and under.”

My kids aren’t babies anymore, but maybe yours are. In that case, you came to the right place. Our issue this month is packed full of wisdom and advice for life with a baby — from choosing a great pediatrician on page 21 to fun spots to check out around town with your baby on page 26. And that’s just the beginning!

My oldest child is 10 years old. He turns 11 in less than a month.

Recently, when we were at a restaurant and pointed out that he wouldn’t be able to order from the kids’ menu any longer after his birthday, he looked a little panic stricken. He didn’t like that a piece of his childhood wouldn’t be available to him any longer. He asked if this meant he wouldn’t be a “kid” anymore.

“But I’ll still look 10 for a while,” he said.

“And I still like to do things that kids do.”

Then he listed the ways that he would still be a kid when he was 11. He was

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We reassured him that yes, he’d still be a kid at 11. He still had many years of being a kid ahead of him. And after our meal, we went to a playground, and our 10 year old (almost 11 year old) played like the kid he is.

If you’re in the baby stage of parenthood: savor this time. One day, you, too, will be ordering off the adult menu for your not-so-little kid!

Digital Publisher Wendy Hasser wendy@ohparent.com

Administration + Digital Mary Mueller mmueller@ohparent.com

Administration + Calendar Editor Brooke Litherland brooke@ohparent.com

Billing billing@ohparent.com

Contributing Writers Lindsay Conner, Rachael Dupree, Pam Freeman, Rebecca Matteson

Calendar of Events calendar@ohparent.com

SW Ohio Parent is published monthly. Copyright 2021 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.

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.

Zoe (6 mos) Lydia (7)

Remy (5) Emilia (4)

Ryan (6)

Phoenix (4 mos) Jamal (4)

Want to see your cute kids on this page?

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

July 2022 I ohParent.com

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NEWS & Notes

Our monthly roundup of news you can use

Enjoy the Sounds of Caesar Ford Summer Fest Greene County Parks & Trails is proud to host the 4th Annual Caesar Ford Summer Fest Concert Series full of family fun. Summer Fest continues with concerts on July 9, Aug 6 and September 10. Each one has a different sound so there will be something for everyone! Enjoy great entertainment, lots of fun, comfortable seating and loads of free and easy onsite parking. Learn more at gcparkstrails.com/

THAT’S HOW

DID YOU KNOW?

MANY

Thomas Jefferson

1 billion

DOLLARS

drafted the

AMERICANS

Declaration of

SPEND ON

Independence on a

FIREWORKS

laptop. Well, not the

EACH YEAR, ACCORDING TO THE AMERICAN PYROTECHNICS ASSOCIATION.

laptops we are used to.

He used a writing desk that fits over one’s lap, which was referred to at the time as a “laptop.”

Sources: hocking.edu

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events/caesar-ford-summer-fest .

Get Healthy

with the YMCA On Saturday, July 30, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., join the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati and the YMCA of Greater Dayton at Washington Park in OTR for Healthy Kids Day. This day of fun in the sun showcases how your kids can get active and inspires healthy routines to grow stronger inside and out!

OUR COVER KID:

SOFIA

age // 4 years old my favorites COLOR FOOD SPORT ICE CREAM FLAVOR BOOK TV SHOW MOVIE TOY CANDY

Pink Chips and queso Swinging Chocolate Moana books Peppa Pig Moana Barbie Dream House M&M's

an interesting fact about me // My favorite color is rainbow!

when I grow up // I want to be an animal doctor!

COVER PHOTO BY:

Gabrielle Cheikh Photography gcphotography.com July 2022 I ohParent.com

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PARENTING

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DAYTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL

Tips to Combat Boredom and Boost Creativity in Kids Try using our Summer Boredom Busters for fun and creative ways you and your family can keep the activities going all summer long.

Share how you are helping your kids combat boredom this summer by using #OnOurSleeves on social media.

“I’m bored! There’s nothing to do!” As parents or caregivers, you’ve probably heard this phrase many times with your kids, especially when they have an extended period of downtime, like now with summer break.

During times of boredom, the brain is challenged to fix the problem. This makes children more likely to come up with their own solutions to their feeling of boredom. Many people would call this “being creative!”

Research has shown that boredom results from a brain that is craving stimulation and not getting it.

Some people crave this more than others, and it is good for our minds to be active much of the time while we're awake.

Here are three tips to help your kids manage boredom and get their creative juices flowing when they feel stuck with nothing to do.

Have a bag of tricks for things to do at home. Board games, sidewalk chalk, toys, movies, a backyard sprinkler, coloring/art supplies. These are all inexpensive things, or things many parents have on hand already, that children can use to entertain themselves.

1.

Enroll your child in an activity. Now that summer is here, sign your child up for an outdoor activity such as soccer, swimming lessons or day camp.

Many of these things can give your children that much needed creative outlet. It may just be once or twice a week, but it will give them something to look forward to.

2.

Have them help with chores. If your child is old enough to help around the house with chores such as cleaning and laundry, this is a great opportunity to make a chore chart with them with weekly goals to check off. It teaches them organization, structure and gives parents some extra down time, too!

3.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

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HIDDEN GEMS

WORDS BY REBECCA MATTESON

Happy Hangout West Side With an unobstructed sight line, parents are welcome to bring their own food and drinks while watching their children play. Ample seating and charging outlets allow for parents to bring their work with them as their little ones burn off energy. Or, keep the laptops at home and join in on fun play throughout the tiny town.

For Cincinnati West Siders, a family favorite for indoor play is at Happy Hangout West Side. With a tall jungle gym complete with tubes, slides and impressive imaginative play storefronts, your kiddos under age 8 will stay cool and have a blast.

The space itself is designed for younger children to run and play through climbing tubes, a treehouse and a kid-sized tiny town. Inside the town, kids will find a baby boutique, riverfront market, fire truck, camper and pet shop. A gated, padded baby area encourages development with soft climbers, toddler slide, play table and tiny wagons.

Happy Hangout’s goal to serve the community is evident in their class offerings, fundraising efforts, seasonal fests and party room rentals.

Partnering with the Hamilton County Health Department, Happy Hangouts brings free events and resources to the community. With events like summer STEM classes, Sensory Play Date and Mom’s Night Out, everyone benefits from the thoughtful team behind HH. Whether you’re planning on attending a special character event, Harvest Fest with caramel apple sundaes, sensory art class or simply visiting for a day of play, Happy Hangout has thoughtfully designed a safe, fun space for your young child.

2041 Anderson Ferry Rd, Cincinnati happyhangoutws.com

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Is It Time to Switch Schools?

W hat to consider if you’re thinking of changing your child’ s scho ol .

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

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Switching schools is a big decision, and one that should be carefully considered. Families change schools for a variety of reasons — they might be looking for a different educational environment for their child, or they might have had a shift in their family circumstances, or they just might not be satisfied with their current school.

Whatever the reason might be, when it’s time to go, you will know. Here are some important things to consider if you’re thinking about switching schools.

What to Think About Before Making the Big Change If you’re thinking about switching schools because your child doesn’t like the school or is having problems there, try to give the school a chance to address these issues first. Sometimes, meeting with a principal or head of school might open your eyes to options, resources and supportive staff that could help solve the problems you’re having.

It might help to also ask yourself these questions: · If we switch schools, is my child missing an opportunity to learn how to work through a difficult situation? · Are there things about our current school that my child likes? Will we be able to find these qualities at our new school?

· Have we sought out all of the resources that are available to us at our current school? · What kind of commitment or lifestyle change will switching schools require? · How will this decision affect the rest of our family?

Finding a New School That Fits If you do decide to change schools, then the next step is to find a school that will meet your family’s needs.

Here are some actionable items you can do to help with your search for a new school.

Think about what your child needs in a school. Are they academically advanced and need a school that will challenge them, or do they need academic support?

Or maybe they’re somewhere in between? It’s also important to

consider other factors, like whether your child needs more one-on-one time with a teacher (if so, consider class sizes), or if they need more time to get their wiggles out every day (if so, consider how much play time the school allocates).

Think about your family’s needs. Take into account your family’s budget. What can you afford? How far away is the school, and will it require shuffling around schedules? What kind of time commitment or lifestyle changes will this new school require?

Do your research. There are a plethora of school options available, including public, private, Montessori, Waldorf, co-op, charter, magnet, home school and more. There’s truly a school for every type of learner. Research the different types of schools in your community and get opinions from parents you trust.

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Visit the school. If possible, visit the schools you are interested in with your child.

Bring a list of questions you might have. Many schools offer tours that will allow you to visit classrooms and get a quick peek at what you might expect during the school day.

When considering a new school, take your child’s opinions into account. After all, they will be the one attending the school! That said, don’t leave the final decision to your child.

Ultimately, that decision is up to you, after you’ve carefully weighed the pros and cons of each school you are evaluating.

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Making the School Switch a Positive Experience You’ve made your choice and you’re making the big switch.

Changing schools can elicit all kinds of emotions from a child, both positive and negative. Here are some tips to make the transition a little easier.

Focus on the positives.

Remind your child of all the new experiences they will have and new friends they’ll make.

Talk it out. Keep the lines of communication open in your family. Remind them that change is hard and it’s OK to be sad to leave their old school.

Visit their classroom and meet the teacher. If your

Make new friends, but keep the old. Help your

school allows it, make an appointment to tour the school and meet the teacher before school starts.

child maintain their friendships from their old school. Arrange playdates for younger kids, and encourage older kids to invite their friends over to hang out, or to text, call or email each other.

LITTLE FOODIES

WORDS BY REBECCA MATTESON

Paradise Ice Paradise Ice in Milford offers authentic Hawaiian shave ice, complete with layers of vanilla ice cream, perfectly shaved ice and a sweetened condensed milk “snow cap.” Our family never knew there was a difference between traditional shaved ice and authentic Hawaiian ice, so we were absolutely delighted when Paradise Ice hit our radar.

Sizes range from Keiki (Hawaiian for child) up to the Big Kahuna.

Start with your size and select up to three flavors, or try a delicious tropical combo created by the Hawaiian ice masterminds themselves. Finish up with your choice of the Hawaiian Way (ice cream and snow cap) or simply stick with shaved ice only.

What sets Paradise Ice apart are the many delicious, diverse flavor options and combos. Papaya, lychee, melona, passionfruit, guava, white

chocolate macadamia, coconut and li hing mui (sweet plum) are just some of the Hawaiian flavors.

Mainland flavors include your traditional watermelon, cherry, root beer and 30 more options.

Sugar free flavors and add-ons like sour plum powder, mochi bits, azuki sweet beans and gummy bears are available for an extra fee. Try a popular combo like the Kona: mango, pineapple and li hing mui, or the Waikiki: watermelon and pink lemonade.

Take your ice to-go or bring the whole family for a treat under the tall, orange umbrellas. With soft Hawaiian music in the background and almost always a slight breeze, you just might be able to close your eyes and picture your favorite island on the horizon.

1313 State Route 131, Milford facebook.com/ParadiseIce-362428677151207

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TRAVEL

WORDS BY KAREN RING

Cool Outings for a Hot Summer Day Head to a Museum

Summer, we love you.

But, let’s face it, sometimes we need to take a break from the scorching heat. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to cool off while keeping the kids entertained, both close to home and just a short drive away. Here are a few of our favorite ideas.

Rainy day, sunny day, hot day, cold day, there’s no wrong time to visit a museum, but in the summer months the air conditioning is a big perk!

The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery in Dayton is more than a museum of science and natural history; it’s also a zoo, aquarium and planetarium. You’ll find a world of exploration for kids of all ages.

Get Underground If you’re looking for adventure at a crisp 54 degrees, look no further than a cave! And there are plenty to choose from. Ohio Caverns in West Liberty, Ohio, is the state’s largest cavern, and the most beautiful.

Dubbed “America’s Most Colorful Caverns,” families will find crystal and rock formations in multiple colors of the rainbow.

A one-hour guided tour of Seneca Caverns in Bellevue, Ohio, leads visitors past fascinating geological wonders like “The Earth Crack” and the Mist’ry River,” a crystalclear f lowing stream 110 feet below the surface.

For the true adventurer, Louisville Mega Cavern, in nearby Kentucky, spans 100 acres deep below the city and is home to the world’s only fully underground zip line course, aerial ropes challenge course and bike park.

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Make a Splash When the temps heat up, it’s time to hit the water! From waterparks to city pools, there are plenty of places to make a splash.

Sunlite Water Adventure at Coney Island is the ultimate place to cool off during the dog days of summer.

The massive pool is extra inviting on those hot, humid days and everyone will love splashing in Typhoon Tower and heading down the water slides.

Located in Ziegler Park, the renovated OTR pool is a total hidden gem with something for everyone. There’s a zero-entry pool complete with bubbler for the little ones, a diving well for the older kids, lap lanes, an accessible entry ramp, a climbing wall over the water and plenty of space to lounge poolside.

Reservations are no longer required for the 2022 season.

For a water adventure of a different sort, head to Morgan’s Canoe and Outdoor Adventures in Oregonia.

Launched in 1969 by the Morgan family, this remains the only canoe, kayak, and rafting outfitter located in the pristine Ft. Ancient Gorge of the Little Miami River. Once home to the ancient Hopewell Indian tribe also known as “The Mound Builders,” this secluded section of river offers natural beauty and protected isolation perfect for a refreshing day of paddling.

Advanced reservations are required.

With a Children’s Museum, numerous featured exhibits and an OMNIMAX Theater, the Cincinnati Museum Center offers hours of opportunity for exploration, education and play that never gets old.

It’s baseball season, and what better way to spend a hot day than at the Reds Hall of Fame Museum?

This place is perfect for baseball fans of all ages and there are a number of interactive areas to keep the kids entertained, including a booth where they can don headsets and practice their best baseball announcer voice.

For those looking for a fun road trip, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is well worth the two-hour drive. From the newly renovated Dinosphere exhibit that puts you directly in the footsteps of prehistoric creatures to the brand new interactive Scooby Doo exhibit, this museum is five f loors of non-stop fun!

Don’t let the mid-summer Midwestern heat put a damper on the fun when there are so many ways to stay cool when the temps heat up.

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SW OHIO PARENT'S 2022

[ contents ] 21 TIPS FOR CHOOSING YOUR BABY'S PEDIATRICIAN 23 BABY'S FIRST TRIP TO THE DENTIST24 EASY AND CREATIVE GENDER REVEAL IDEAS 26 8 PLACES AROUND SW OHIO TO TAKE YOUR BABY

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WORDS BY RACHAEL DUPREE

TIPS

FOR

CHOOSING

YOUR B ABY'S PEDIATRICIAN Selecting a pediatrician for your child is an important decision and one that parents shouldn’t take lightly.

Whether you’re expecting a baby, new to town or unhappy with your previous provider, finding a pediatrician for your child is likely one of the items high on your to-do list. Having a pediatrician you see regularly not only helps you track your child’s developmental milestones, it’s essential to be established with a practice so that you have a provider familiar with your child’s history when health concerns arise.

With so many pediatric options available, beginning the search can be daunting. There are medical doctors, osteopathic doctors and nurse practitioners; pediatric-specific practices and family practices; providers focusing on traditional healthcare and those with more holistic approaches. As you begin to sift through your options, here are some questions to consider.

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Are They Recommended?

Do They Meet Basic Requirements?

Asking pediatrician recommendations from friends or family members who share your health values is a great first step to focus your search. With a few names in hand, you can do further research to see if any of the recommendations are a good fit for your family. First, check out the provider’s website for basic information and then schedule a consultation interview for a more intimate look at the practice, keeping in mind that even a provider who comes highly recommended by someone you trust doesn’t necessarily make them the right one for your family.

Before diving into any further research, make sure the provider you’re considering meets basic standards of care. There are several things Brown recommends you look into. First, ensure they are board-certified in pediatrics and that they take your insurance. You may also consider if their office hours and average length of office visits work well with your family members’ schedules. Finally, ask if the provider has any plans to change practices or retire before you become established. “You never know what the future holds, but it doesn’t hurt to ask,” Brown says.

Where are They Located?

“It may seem simple, but it will be helpful when your child is sick to know [the office] is easy to access,” says Kerry Brown, senior parenting specialist from Parent Connext, a parental support program at Beech Acres Parent Center in Cincinnati.

Think through the times of day you’re likely to be visiting the pediatrician and where you’ll be during that time, whether that’s at work, home, or your child’s school or daycare facility.

What’s Their Communication Style?

Learning about how both the office and the doctor will communicate with you will give you a sense of the office culture. Are the staff, from the receptionists to the nurses to the provider, friendly and do they provide clear information?

If you have a medical question, are you able to talk directly to a doctor or nurse? How are after-hours concerns handled? Does the office use a portal system for communicating appointments, billing and test results, and if not, how do they share that information? While these things might not necessarily be deal breakers, it’s good to know what to expect communicationwise and if it fits your preferences.

What Is the Office Like?

During a consultation, get a sense of how the office itself feels. “Do they separate sick kids from health visits in the waiting area? Is it an inviting atmosphere for kids?”

Brown asks. Ultimately, you want a place where you and your children feel welcome and at ease.

Do They Share Your Healthcare Values?

Prior to choosing a pediatrician, Brown and the Parent Connext team recommend that parents intentionally sit down to identify their family’s values, including their point of view on healthcare, helping give you a better sense if

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a provider aligns with those values. During a consultation, you may ask them about their views on things like breastfeeding, circumcision, medication use, potty training and sleep, Brown says. You may want to know if they have knowledge on any special medical concerns that affect your child. Overall, get a sense of if they listen to you and if their bedside manner resonates with you, Brown says.

“Listen to your gut — if the provider isn’t really listening to your concerns or questions or you just don’t feel like it’s a good fit, trust that intuition,” Brown says. “This person will likely be caring for your child for at least 18 years, so you want to make sure it’s a good fit and that you feel comfortable not only with them, but with other staff, as well.”

It may take some time to find a pediatrician that is right for your family, and that’s OK. Keep the conversation open with your pediatrician by asking good questions, voicing any concerns you have as they arise, and advocating for your child at all times. Remember, if you are unhappy with your provider for any reason, you’re not stuck with them forever. You always have the opportunity to move on to a practice that better suits your and your family’s needs.

BABY ' S FIRS T TRIP TO THE DENTIST Your child’s life will be filled with firsts: first steps, first words, and, of course, the first trip to the dentist.

Below are a few tips to establish your child’s dental home.

When to go The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends the first dental visit within 6 months after the first tooth erupts or no later than the child’s first birthday.

While this may seem early, it is actually the perfect time to acclimate your toddler to regular dental visits and get advice on eruption patterns, tooth cleaning, pacifiers, fluoride and prevention of tooth injuries for young walkers.

How to choose a dentist While a parent’s first instinct may be to take their child to their own dentist, it is worth weighing the benefits of choosing a pediatric dentist.

While general dentists are qualified to work with patients of all ages, pediatric dentists are required to obtain additional training that focuses on the specific dental needs of growing children.

What to expect A child’s first visit to the dentist is relatively quick and easy, with the majority of the time spent educating the parent on a variety of children’s oral health topics, including brushing techniques for toddlers and infants, proper use of

fluoride, oral habits (i.e. pacifiers and thumb sucking), ways to prevent accidents that could damage the face and teeth, teething and milestones of development, and dietary habits that may be putting your child at risk for cavities.

How to get started on the right foot Remember, your child has no preconceived notion of what to expect at the dentist and will be taking cues from you. It is therefore important to keep your own emotions in check.

Parents can introduce their child to the concept of the dentist using one of the many children’s books and educational YouTube videos themed around the first trip to the dentist.

Even with preparation, it is age-appropriate for young children to wiggle, fuss, cry and whine at their first visit. Rest assured, pediatric dentists and their staff are trained and equipped to handle these responses and make the best out of each visit.

When it comes to dental health, prevention is key. Establishing a dental home by your child’s first birthday will set the stage for a healthy smile and a lifetime of good oral hygiene.

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WORDS BY LINDSAY CONNER

Gender Reveal Ideas Here are some fun ideas to inspire you!

Gender reveal parties are a popular trend among pregnant couples, and for good reason: they’re a fun and lighthearted way to get everyone together before the baby’s arrival! Before the big announcement, friends and family of the expectant parents can vote on whether they think the baby is a girl or a boy. The gender is typically revealed through a pink or blue surprise during the party.

“I actually enjoy the anticipation of revealing the gender,” says Jasmine Ruff of Blush The Event Loft. “Everyone has their own ideas about what the gender will be based off of old-wives tales, and it’s funny to watch the reactions upon revelation. It’s like a fun sports game!”

If you and your partner already know the baby’s sex, you can use these ideas to surprise your family and friends. You can also designate a “keeper of the gender” to plan this part of the reveal, so guests can enjoy your surprised reactions.

Ready to reveal? Here are some inexpensive, exciting ideas for your gender reveal that are simple to pull off.

say it with sweets Here’s a tasty way to reveal the baby’s gender. Bake or order a cake with pink or blue layers (ombre, anyone?), then cover in white icing.

Get a video rolling when you cut the cake to reveal a pink or blue secret!

This trick also works well with icing-filled donuts or cupcakes — just make sure none of your guests sneak a bite prematurely.

If you prefer store-bought sweets, open up a few Oreo cookies to reveal the icing layer, then roll it in sprinkles in the color of your choice.

Close the cookies back up, then dip in melted white or dark chocolate.

You can also color the word “he” in blue or “she” in pink on the wrapper of a Hershey’s candy bar. Add an outer wrapper of pretty paper to conceal the baby’s gender inside.

balloon bonanza There are many fun takes on a gender reveal balloon. Hide pink or blue helium balloons in a giant cardboard box. Wrap the box in fun wrapping paper, and then surprise

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your party-goers with a colorful balloon sendoff!

You can also fill an extra-large black balloon with pink or blue confetti and helium. Tie the balloon’s string onto the back of a chair, then have the parents-to-be pop the balloon with a pin.

If you want to include children in the gender reveal, another cute idea is to have them sneak up behind you with a bundle of helium balloons in pink or blue. This is a great way to get less-enthusiastic older siblings a chance to be part of the excitement!

powder perfect The powder cannon is a fairly recent trend in gender reveal parties, with inexpensive options available from big box stores. This reveal is fun to video tape if you want to include out of town guests via social streaming sites. Car enthusiasts might prefer to pack pink or blue powder in the exhaust pipe with a funnel or syringe. When driving away, an impressive cloud of colored smoke will appear.

You can buy colored powder for the reveal or make your own with cornstarch, water and gel food coloring. This powder is also fun to put inside balloons or condiment bottles for shooting in the air.

messy moments The kids will love this one! Buy silly string in pink or blue and wrap the cans with paper and tape until the

big reveal.

Adventurous parents may like to stage a squeeze- bottle paint fight while wearing white t-shirts or painting on a blank canvas. The shirts or artwork can become a fun memento of the party.

Ready for a mess that’s actually fun to clean up? Fill a pinata with candy and confetti in your chosen color and let the kids go wild! You can make your own “pinata” with a cardboard box turned upside down.

Fill it with balloons and toys, then attach a string to open it.

sporty surprise Got an athlete in the family? You can buy a soccer ball, baseball, basketball, golf ball, hockey puck, or football that is designed to erupt colored powder on impact. Guests can cast their vote by writing their name in pink or blue on a “scoreboard” before the big reveal!

easy to clean Looking to avoid a messy reveal?

Try a gender reveal candle, which gently burns away a top layer to reveal the pink or blue wax inside.

Color-changing straws give party guests a chance to get in on the fun right before their eyes as the ice water makes their drinking straw pink or blue. Let your friends light up gender reveal sparklers at the same time to start some colorful fireworks! Or see who is feeling lucky with a scratch-off card that reveals a boy or girl.

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8

PLACES AROUND SW OHIO

Got a wee little one? There’s still lots of fun to be had around town!

WORDS BY BY REBECCA MATTESON

first come, healthy development through open

first serve play. Soft play equipment and age

basis. The appropriate toys like train tables,

museum is soft climbers, bouncy seats, blocks

least crowded and wooden toys keep your baby

during early happy and healthy. Whether you’re morning looking for drop-in play, monthly

hours of 9 to memberships or birthday party

11 a.m. for a rentals, LilyPad also offers classes calmer, for postpartum Mamas, Zambini,

relaxing visit acoustic jam, art classes and more.

with your baby explorer.

Packing up all the gear necessary to spend an afternoon out of the house with a baby can be an ordeal.

But sometimes you’ve just gotta get out! Here’s a rundown of places to go around Southwest Ohio with baby in tow.

Wonderland Playground, Anderson With a designated soft play baby area full of brightly colored, soft-cushioned climbers, slides and merry-go-round, your baby will be stimulated and cheerful after a trip to Wonderland. Regardless of age, taller children over 36 inches are not permitted in the baby area, keeping our youngest babes safe and happy. Wonderland features a delicious snack and coffee bar to keep parents alert and moving.

Cincinnati Museum Center, Cincinnati A Cincinnati treasure is back in business with a fully reopened Children’s museum. The museum boasts two play areas specifically designed for young children and babies, encouraging STEM play from an early age. Little Sprouts Farm infant garden and toddler farmyard has privacy space for nursing mothers and story time every Wednesday at 11 a.m.

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Kid Clubhouse, Springboro

Adventure Reef Water Park, Kettering

A goal of creating a fun, safe, affordable space for kids and families is at the very center of the husband-and-wife team at Kid Clubhouse. Specifically designed for children ages 3 and younger, the toddler zone — with small slides, soft play toys and seating around the entire zone — encourages babies to crawl and build those tiny muscles! A multilevel playground keeps older siblings busy as babies stay low and active with fun mirrors and climbing toys.

Located at the Kettering Rec Center from Memorial Day through Labor Day, babies can show off their swimsuits and sun hats at Adventure Reef Water Park. With a smaller pool just for babies, parents can ease their minds knowing there’s a safe space without the bigger kids splashing around. For walking babies, an interactive splash pad keeps them cool and stimulated. Don’t forget your water buckets and sunscreen!

LilyPad, Oakley Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, Dayton Under age 3 plays for free at Boonshoft, with everything reopened including the baby and toddler spaces. With ample free parking and reciprocacy benefits, Boonshoft Museum is an impressive gem for the entire family. The museum offers a quiet room on the first floor for nursing families and free stroller rental on a

For curious babies, LilyPad indoor playground offers an enclosed space for pre-walkers, encouraging

Milk and Beans, Crescent Springs

Dare we say, absolutely genius?!

Coffee shop on one side, play space on the other; happy parents and baby! Open Monday through Saturday, toys in the playroom were carefully chosen to promote calm play. The area features a Pikler triangle for climbing, bouncing bees, soft climbers, stacking blocks and a library. With a full espresso bar and pastries, enjoy a cup of coffee while the babies play.

Graeters Lil’ Pints Play Room, Kenwood The Lil’ Pints Play Room at Graeters is a free, baby friendly play space with soft floors and interactive play features throughout. Designed for children ages 9 and younger, babies have their very own space to crawl freely between bites of Graeter’s deliciously creamy ice cream. Socks are required and are available for $1 with the most adorable ice cream prints. Other Lil’ Pints Play Room locations include Cherry Grove and Bethel Columbus.

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BABY GUIDE

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AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY PAM FREEMAN

Local Spotlight: Findlay Market

Catching up with Ohio's oldest continuously operated public market and one of Cincinnati's most cherished institutions.

Findlay Market is a mainstay in Cincinnati life, connecting farmers, producers, sellers and customers in the same iron-framed building since 1855. It’s a historic monument and a destination for local food and artisan products.

Southwest Ohio Parent talked to Kelly Lanser, director of communications and strategic initiatives, about this culinary pillar of Cincy history.

In what ways is Findlay Market involved in the community?

The Corporation for Findlay Market (CFFM) is a 501c3 private non-profit organization that manages and operates Findlay Market. Our team keeps the market safe, clean and beautiful, supports market merchants, and attracts a diverse group of new businesses to Findlay Market and the surrounding Market District.

CFFM preserves and expands the connection with the OTR neighborhood, the Cincinnati community, and its shoppers by supporting cultural and income diversity at Findlay Market, and ensuring that the market serves a diverse population. We host more than a dozen community events each year, and have launched the Findlay Culinary Training Program and workforce development restaurant, Mighty Good: Meat n’ Three.

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ohParent.com I July 2022

Market Week, Fall Food Fest, Trick-or-Treat at the Market and Holiday Market.

What do you hope to bring to the community in the future?

Can you share some of your entrepreneurial success stories?

Findlay Market is home to more than 50 full-time businesses, more than 75 outdoor market vendors and the region’s largest farmers market. We have seen businesses, like Taste of Belgium and Maverick Chocolate Co., start here and grow to additional locations. We have seen businesses, like The Arepa Place, come to Findlay Kitchen with a great idea and delicious food, and grow to an outdoor market vendor and open up a full-time business at the market. More than 200 businesses have been supported since Findlay Kitchen opened, with an average of 75 businesses operating at any given time and more than 80% being women, immigrant or minorityowned.

ABOVE PHOTO CREDIT /

CORPORATION FOR FINDLAY MARKET RIGHT / DEVOU GOOD FOUNDATION

What programs do you have coming up?

The market is celebrating 170 years this year! We are having a birthday bash on July 23, with programming all day, a fun cake cutting (and free cake for the community!), amazing food and drinks, and a special night market.

We have our Music at the Market program on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays for the rest of the year, offering a free and wonderful way to spend time with friends and family next to our outdoor bars. Our calendar of events is full for the remainder of 2022, with fan favorites like National Farmers

We continue to expand our community events and programming so that every person in Cincinnati feels welcome at Findlay Market. Our Findlay Culinary Training Program supports individuals with high barriers to employment and provides them a career path in the culinary industry. Our Findlay Market shopping app relaunches this summer, which supports our low-income shoppers by providing fresh food access and doorstep delivery.

How can people help Findlay Market and get involved?

We are always looking for volunteers. You can join the Friends of Findlay Market program, or you can donate monetarily to support our initiatives. And, always, we encourage you to shop local and support the incredible small businesses at Findlay Market.

EDUCATION GUIDE CHARTER

and nurturing a love for life-long learning. Individualized curriculum Citizens of the World customized for each student, expansive Charter School naturally lit rooms, low student ratio.

Our model focuses on social and Specials include yoga, music, Hebrew, emotional learning, project based Spanish, dance, drama, art and Tae learning, and difference and inclusion.

Kwon Do. Flexible schedules, before and We empower children to think critically aftercare, web cams and after-school and learn to engage respectfully and enrichment available. Transportation productively with fellow students by available to/from Mason schools. developing their capacity to enter into Limited space - now enrolling! • 7587 and understand the lives of others. • Central Parke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040, Phone: 4324 Homer Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45227, Contact: Executive Director, Phone: (513) 445-4793, Email: recruitment@cwcschools.org, cwccincinnati.org

CHILDCARE & PRESCHOOL A Million Dreams Learning Center New Learning Center now open in Milford, OH! Now Enrolling ages 6 weeks - School Age! We strive to provide an environment, staff, and programs that will enhance and encourage the million dreams of each child, family, and staff member. Through our classroom design, playground design and Christian curriculum, it is this Center’s desire to maintain a joy-filled, peaceful, creative environment for infants and children. We are committed to furnishing such an environment and adding a quality of childcare that is desirable and much needed in our community. • 541 Main

(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

Street, Milford OH 45150, Contact: Kate Jordan, Phone: (513) 831-5806, Email: info@ amilliondreamslc.org, amilliondreamslc.org

MONTESSORI

The Campus at Kids First

Little Sprouts Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten

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 * SPONSORED LISTINGS

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

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: 513-871-4700, ext. 261, Email: pearl_e@ summitcds.org, summitcds.org

SPECIAL NEEDS Linden Grove School Linden Grove School is a stateaccredited, non-public K-8 school offering a specialized learning environment for students with ASD and related learning needs. Our progressive education program integrates academics, social-emotional learning, and specialized therapies. We partner with families to create a respectful, rewarding and supportive environment, inspiring hope for all and providing each student with the opportunity for personal growth and independence.

After-school programs and summer camp are also available for enrolled students. • 4122 Myrtle Ave, Cincinnati, OH

45236, lindengroveschool.org, Phone: (513) 984-2215, headofschool@lindengroveschool.org

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

The Miami Valley School At The Miami Valley School's Early Childhood School, a lifetime love of learning begins for students age 3-4.

Here, seasoned teachers create a safe environment where a child’s learning and imagination take flight. Since 1964, MVS has been Dayton's top private school for grades EC-12. Schedule your tour: www.miamivalleyschool.org/ admissions. • 5151 Denise Drive, Dayton,

BE PART OF OUR MONTHLY GUIDE CONTACT KATIE@OHPARENT.COM

OH 45429, Phone: (937) 434-4444, mvschool.com/

July 2022 I ohParent.com

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THINGS TO DO //

FRI 01 The Nature of Kids – iSTEM iSTEM, you STEM, we all STEM! This week, we're learning about Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—also known as STEM. Build, create, and brain your way through the day! • Location: Forest Run MetroPark, Time: 10-11:30 am, yourmetroparks.net

Story Time in the Garden Join them for their weekly story time that promises to engage your youngster(s) in the joys of nature and imaginative adventure! • Location: Highfield Discovery Garden, Time: 10- 10:30 am, greatparks.org

FRI 01̶SUN 10 Independence

Day Family Fun Weekend Youngs Dairy Young's is open regular hours through the holiday! Take advantage of a special Family Value wristband good for all day, unlimited family fun at Young’s Jersey Dairy! • Location: Young’s Jersey Diary, Time: 10 am- 10 pm, youngsdairy.com/july-4thweekend

SAT 02̶MON 04 Northside

Rock N' Roll Carnival The Northside Rock N' Roll Carnival is happy to be back this summer at Hoffner Park. There will be a lot of fun local and national artists performing at the carnival this summer. • Location: Hoffner Park, Time: Sat/Sun Opens at 3 pm, Mon opens at 11 am, northsiderocks.com FREE

SUN 03 Balloon Glow Watch the night sky glow with hot air balloons, jump and play on inflatable obstacles, enjoy carnival food and games, and end the night with Rozzi's Famous Fireworks! Enjoy all of Coney Island’s favorites like Sunlite Pool, Cannonball Cove, and Twister. PLUS, challenge yourself on the massive inflatable obstacle course, the Challenge Zone! • Location: Coney Island, Time: 10 am, coneyislandpark. com/event/balloon-glow-2 FREE / free for families!

*ONGOING /a recurring event

JULY 2022

City of Dayton Lights in Flight Fireworks Show and Festival Celebrate Dayton with live music, food, beverages and kids' activities. Watch the City's Lights in Flight spectacular visual display over the Great Miami River.

Fireworks take off at 10pm • Location: RiverScape

Family Storytime in the Park Come join your neighborhood librarians at Gary Sherman Park for a half hour of stories, songs, and silliness. These events will be weather permitting and they recommend you bring some water, blankets, and snacks for your family, should you desire. • Location: Gary Sherman Park, Time:

SUN 03, 10, 17, 24 & 31 Family

WED 06 Under the Sea Party

MetroPark, Time: 5-10 pm, metroparks.org FREE

ARTventures Enjoy a family-friendly, docent-led tour for families to explore highlights of their permanent collections. Public tours are always FREE and meet in the front lobby. • Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, Time: 2-3 pm, cincinnatiartmuseum.org

MON 04 Red, White and

BOOM! Come together and celebrate Independence Day from sea to shining sea. Join JMR and the Pops for a showcase of American favorites inspired by the beauty of this land and its peoples. This is America the Beautiful for all—with music to lift your spirit and set your heart aglow. Stick around for the post-concert fireworks! • Location: Riverbend Music Center, Time: 8 pm, cincinnatisymphony.org

Red, White & Blue Ash Outstanding live music, headlined by Gavin DeGraw, along with fantastic fireworks, Fretboard Brewing Red, White & Blue Ash has family-fun festival rides, local food vendors, drinks, live character performances, and more! • Location: Summit Park Blue Ash, blueashevents.com

TUES 05 Preschool Storytime in

the Nature PlayScape Join them for a unique, outdoor storytime in the Nature PlayScape.

Their story expert will read nature-themed books and offer a special craft. Each week is a new nature topic.

Perfect for ages 2-5 with an adult. • Location: Cincinnati

11:30- Noon, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

They will celebrate the fun things that below the ocean has to offer with crafts, games and other activities. •

Location: MidPointe Library Liberty, Time: 11 am- Noon, midpointelibrary.org FREE

THURS 07 Smale Family Fun Days Enjoy free ice cream from UDF, face painting stations, balloon artists, animal encounters, and puppet shows. This month: Live Music with Wump Mucket Puppet Show • Location: Smale Riverfront Park, Time: 10 am- 1 pm, cincinnati-oh.gov

Wild With My Child: Drip Drop Drizzle Pop During this meander-at-your-ownpace program, young children and their caregivers will explore “all things water”. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 10:15-11:15 am, cincynature.org

FRI 08 Trail "Scavenger" Hunt

Meet their special guest scavenger, the vulture, and then pick up a sheet for a challenge of your very own. Turn in your completed sheet by 3 p.m. for a prize. • Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, Time: 11 am- 2 pm, greatparks.org

Nature Center, Time: 10 am, cincynature.org *SN / special needs friendly

/ a SW Ohio Parent favorite!

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SAT 09 Families Create! Playful Puppets Meet Pam Kravetz and see how she illustrates her family’s colorful stories so you can design puppets for a show of your own making. • Location: Weston Art Gallery, Time: 10 am, cincinnatiarts.org/events/ detail/families-create-playful-puppets

Caesar Ford Summer Fest 2022 Greene County Parks & Trails is proud to host the 4th Annual Caesar Ford Summer Fest Concert Series full of family fun. This Month: July 9th - Quiet Riot and Blackfoot. • Location: Caesar Ford Park, Time: 6 pm, gcparkstrails.com

SUN 10 Sensory Sundays @

Boonshoft Museum The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery’s Sensory Sunday program offers extended hours for local families with a member who has a sensory disorder, such as being on the autism spectrum.

During these special hours, the Museum will adjust lighting and sound, have trained volunteers and additional staff, and offer programs that appeal to families who could benefit from a less stimulating atmosphere. • Location: Boonshoft Musuem, Time: 10 am- Noon, boonshoftmuseum.org *SN

MON 11 Teen Tie Dye Choose from a

variety of fun clothing and accessory items to tie dye. This program will include time to pause and appreciate the colors of nature. In addition, frozen treats will be provided!

Ages 11 – 14. • Location: Iron Horse Park, Time; 1-4 pm, cwpd.org

TUES 12 Pop Up: Family Storytime Join them outdoors for stories, songs and other fun learning activities designed to develop the language, literacy and social skills your child needs for school success, weather permitting. Picnic blankets are available to sit on upon request. • Location: Wilmington-Stroop Library, Time: 7-7:30 pm, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

WED 13 Play in the Park at

Kennedy Heights Park Visit Kennedy Height Park every Wednesday throughout the summer for arts and crafts, live performances by local musicians, preforming arts groups, and interactive activities for children and adults. Bring the family and enjoy an lovely evening in beautiful Cincinnati Park. • Location: Kennedy Heights Park, Time: 6-10 pm, cincinnati-oh.gov

THURS 14 Family Night Out -

Fishin n’ Creekin Toss out a line in the lake or dip your toes in the creek! The whole family can enjoy a free night of fishing and exploring the creek for all sorts of critters. Free bait will be available while supplies last. • Location: Spring Lakes Park, Time: 6-8 pm, gcparkstrails. com FREE

FRI 15 Miamisburg Touch-A-Truck Climb on it, run around on it, sit behind the wheel, honk their horns - just don’t drive it away! Police cruisers, fire trucks, tow trucks, food trucks, and so much more! Event is free to attend and open to the public. • Location: Riverfront Park, Time: 12:30- 2:30 pm, playmiamisburg. com FREE

THURS, JULY 14 FAMILY NIGHT OUT - FISHIN N' CREEKIN AT SPRING LAKES PARK

Donatos Family Movie Night Day Air Ballpark will be turned into the ultimate movie theatre. Bring a blanket, sit on outfield grass and come watch the family favorite movie, "Sing 2" (PG), on the Dragons 2,000 sq. ft HD video board. • Location: Day Air Ballpark, Time: 6-10 pm, milb.com/dayton/events/movienight

Story Time in the Garden Join them for their weekly story time that promises to engage your youngster(s) in the joys of nature and imaginative adventure! • Location: Highfield Discovery Garden,

Time: 10- 10:30 am, greatparks.org

SAT 16 Crazy Carboard Regatta

ohParent.com I July 2022

– Foam Party It’s a giant pile of foam! Run, play, and cover yourself in suds, then slide your bubbly self, down their giant slip-n-slide! • Location:

Fairgrounds Recreation Center, Time: 6-8 pm, gcparkstrails.com FREE

WED 20 Baby Art Playground Babies will explore art through sensory play while they create an adorable keepsake. Designed for ages 0-2 years and a caregiver. Don't forget to dress for the occasional mess! • Location:

MidPointe Library Liberty, Time: 10:30- 11 am, midpointelibrary.org FREE

THURS 21 Honey Hill Farm Fun

Enjoy this ten animal petting zoo experience, presented by Honey Hill Farm, which will include chickens, ducks, a rabbit, sheep, goats, an alpaca and more! They have other animal-related activities as well, both inside the library and out on the front lawn. Bring the whole family. • Location: Green Township Branch Library, Time: 10:15-10:45 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

Do you think you’ve got what it takes? Then, sign your team up to build your own cardboard boat and join the amazing race around the lake! Vendors, entertainment, activities, and more await you upon shore. Either way, come on out for some summer family fun, and don’t forget to keep calm and boat on! • Location: Voice of America

Wiggle Worms – Bubble Play Bubbles, bubbles, EVERYWHERE! Could there be anything more fun than playing in a huge pile of bubbles?

Join their staff as they fire up our new bubble machine with a bubble pile SKY HIGH for your wiggle worms to explore. • Location: Fairgrounds Recreation Center, Time: 10

MLK Family Fun Days Enjoy inflatables, yard games, face painters, balloon artists, live music, food trucks, and more! There will be live music by Positive Vibe Band. • Location: Martin Luther King Jr. Park, Time: 2-6

Ault Park Summer Music Festival Join them for fantastic live music at Ault Park’s July Summer Music Festival - a Cincinnati tradition for over 20 years. Local favorite food, craft beer/wine/hard seltzer and water will be available for purchase. Kids’ entertainment will be provided by Cincinnati Circus and Beech Acres from 6-8pm. • Location: Ault Park, Time: 6-10 pm,

MetroPark Lake, Time: 11 am- 3pm, yourmetroparks.net

pm, cincinnati-oh.gov

SAT 16̶SUN 17 Barnstorming

Carnival Experience the golden age of aviation at the Springfield airport. Their two-day event will have many activities for you and your family to enjoy: Antique biplane rides, RC Model airplane and Helicopter demonstrations, kids activities and more! • Location: Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport, Time; 8 am- 5 pm, barnstormingcarnival.com FREE

SUN 17 Sunday Sundaes Celebrate Ice

Cream Day with a sundae at the Smith House! Enjoy a relaxing summer evening with yard games and a guided hike. Bring your own picnic blanket or lawn chair. All ages.

• Location: Bill Yeck Park, Time: 2-4 pm, cwpd.org

MON 18 In Person Storytime:

Library Babies Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories and movement. Recommended for ages birth – 18 months. No registration required. • Location: Groesbeck Branch Library, Time: 10:15-10:45 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

MON 18̶SAT 23 Warren County

Fair Fun, food, games, rides, demo derby, tractor pulls, tug-a-truck, livestock shows and sales, barn yard display, jungle island zoo animals, pony rides, musical groups, corn hole tournament, talent show, karaoke, and parade with hot air balloons. • Location: Warren County Fairgrounds,

warrencountyfairohio.org/fair

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TUES 19 Greene Grasshoppers

am- Noon, gcparkstrails.com FREE

aultparkac.org FREE

FRI 22 Summer Movies in the

Park-The Santa Clause Grab a blanket, your friends and family and join them at Bellbrock Park for some summer movie fun! They will have special activities and crafts to enjoy before each film begins at dark. • Location: Bellbrock Park, Time: 8 pm, bellbrooksugarcreekparks.org

SAT 23 Movie Under the Stars -

The Lost City The fun starts when the sun goes down Bring along a blanket or some chairs and enjoy. This movie will not be offered as a drive-in. • Location: Caesar Ford Park, Time: 8:30 pm, gcparkstrails.com

170th Birthday Bash! Celebrate Findlay Market’s 170th birthday featuring live music, children’s programming, cake cutting, a special night market until 9pm and so much more! • Location: Findlay Market, Time: 8 am- 9 pm, findlaymarket.org

SAT 23̶SUN 24 Gem City Comic

Con The Gem City Comic Con is a social and family-friendly event that promotes art and reading by introducing kids and adults to the world of sequential art. • Location: Dayton Convention Center, Time: Sat 10 am- 5 pm, Sun 10 am – 4 pm, gemcitycomiccon.com

SUN 24 Family Sundays:

Cincinnati Reds vs. St. Louis Cardinals Every Sunday Reds home game is a Family Sunday presented by Klosterman Bakery!

Families can save by purchasing up to three half-price tickets with the purchase of a full-price ticket in select areas of the ballpark. Plus, enjoy giveaways for kids, carnival games, family-friendly activities and more •

Location: Great American Ball Park, Time: 1:40 pm, mlb. com/reds

Dayton Blues Festival The Downtown Summer Music Series: Listen to the best blues bands and performances this side of the Mississippi. • Location: Levitt Pavilion Dayton, Time: 1- 9 pm, levittdayton.org

MON 25 Outdoor Storytime in

the Park: Home of the Brave Park Join them for storytime in the great outdoors! Listen to stories, enjoy a snack, explore the park, and grab a take and make activity. • Location: Home of the Brave Park, Time: 10-10:30 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

TUES 26 Storytime in the Plaza

Enjoy books, songs, activities and more, while building early literacy skills. Make a craft with your child, and have fun at a bubble dance party! • Location: Downtown Main Library, Time: 10:30- 11:30 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

THURS 28 My First Leaf

Collection Leaves are perfect study materials for preschoolers; they learn colors, shapes, and relative sizes, while developing a close relationship with the season.

Bring your preschooler out for a hike to collect nature's retired food makers! • Location: Cox Arboretum

SAT 30 BIG Backyard Party Bring the family to Oak Grove Park for a festival! Fishing, archery, field games, face painting, food trucks and so much more! • Location: Oak Grove Park, Time: 11 am- 2 pm, cwpd.org FREE

SAT 30̶SUN 31 Dayton Air Show 2022 A weekend packed with heartpounding air performances, including the U.S. Navy Blue Angels! In addition, there are activities and events that will capture the imagination of kids of all ages, including interactive, hands-on activities, experiments, and demonstrations for children ages 6-16. • Location: Dayton International Airport, Time: 9 am- 6 pm, daytonairshow.com

Raptor Inc. Monthly Open House Take a peek behind the scenes at the Raptor Center during RAPTOR Incorporated’s monthly Open House.

Educators will be available to welcome guests, lead tours, and conduct educational programs with their LIVE avian ambassadors. Stop in to meet and learn about their amazing local birds of prey and to support raptor conservation! • Location: Raptor Inc., raptorinc.org/

Slip, slide, climb, and crawl your way through a mud obstacle course! Come out to enjoy a water slide, muddy pools, and more. • Location: Rentschler Forest MetroPark, Time: 11 am- 3 pm, yourmetroparks.net

The Nature of Kids - Fair Fun Day Head out to the Butler County Fairgrounds! This optional program includes a scavenger hunt throughout the fair! Start your journey at The Ohio State University, Butler County Extension table. Where will your scavenger hunt take you? Join in to find out! • Location: Butler County Fairgrounds, Time: 10-11:30 am, yourmetroparks.net

FRI 29̶SUN 31 Annie Oakley

Days Festival Family-friendly festival featuring live entertainment including western arts, cowboy mounted shooting, musical performances and more. • Location: Darke County Fairgrounds, Time: 9 am, annieoakleyfestival.org

SAT & SUN, JULY 30-31 DAYTON AIR SHOW AT DAYTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Theatre, lacomedia.com

Play in the Park at Kennedy Heights Park Through August 31. Visit Kennedy Height Park every Wednesday throughout the summer for arts and crafts, live performances by local musicians, preforming arts groups, and interactive activities for children and adults. Bring the family and enjoy an lovely evening in beautiful Cincinnati Park. • Location: Kennedy Heights Park, cincinnati-oh.gov

Kids Crew at Newport on the Levee Tuesdays through October 25. Free family fun at the Levee, every Tuesday through October 25th! Every week is something new and exciting for kids at the Levee; playtime may include face painters, story tellers, magicians, arts and crafts and more! Location: Newport on

open-houses *ONGOING

the Levee, newportonthelevee.com/kids-crew FREE

ONGOING EVENTS

Washington Park Summer Cinema Every Wednesday. Grab a lawn chair and head to Washington Park for a fun movie night! There will be food trucks and drinks available for purchase. • Location:

Christmas In July Through July 31.

Think some Christmas Cheer might help get you through the summer heat? Cool off at the Junction and be sure to get your mid-year check up with Santa as well as enjoying all of their great attractions. • Location:

EnterTRAINment Junction, entertrainmentjunction.com

MetroPark, Time: 10- 11 am, metroparks.org FREE

FRI 29 Mud Mania Mud Mania is back!!

Disney's Beauty and the Beast Through July 24. Belle and the Prince invite you to “Be Our Guest” and step into an enchanted world. Based on the Academy Award®-winning Disney animated feature. With its magnificent music, brilliantly colored costumes and beautiful sets, Disney’s first stage adaptation is Broadway at its best and one oftheir most popular shows of all time! • Location: La Comedia Dinner

The Science of Color: PRISMATICA Through October 16. This interactive art experience at Krohn consists of being surrounded by an array of colors from the rainbow and learning more about the science of color. For this event, Krohn will essentially be turned into a giant kaleidoscope with giant prisms all around that transmit every color. Come to Khron conservatory to enter to an immersive, colorful experience. • Location: Krohn

Conservatory, cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks/ visit-a-park/find-a-parkfacility/krohn-conservatory

Escape the Village Monthly until September 17. Escape the Village is an escape room style challenge! Choose from one of their two escape room adventures “Morgan’s Raiders of the Lost Art” or “Leaving the Station.” • Location: Heritage Village

Museum, heritagevillagecincinnati.org/events/ escape-the-village

Washington Park , Time: 9:00 pm, washingtonpark.org

Free Concerts at Levitt Pavilion Summer 2022 Through September 18. Live music returns to the Levitt Dayton stage this summer with a diverse array of genres. This year’s season is divided into genre specific series sponsored by local businesses and individuals including the altafiber rock/ pop series, the Dayton Metro Library World Music Series, the Projects Unlimited Gem Series and more. • Location: Levitt Pavilion, levittdayton.org FREE

The Science Behind Pixar Extended through Summer! The interactive exhibition showcases the boundless limits of STEM, imagination and curiosity, thrilling you as you come face-to-face with popular characters, including Buzz Lightyear, Dory, Mike and Sulley, Edna Mode and WALL•E. • Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, cincymuseum.org/pixar

Nature Encounters Saturdays Weekly.

Nature lovers of all ages are invited to join the Cincinnati Park staff and volunteers at the Trailside Nature Center in Burnet Woods to learn about the natural world around us. Each week is a different themed topic with activities, scavenger hunts, crafts and more. Live animals make special appearances during some of the weeks. • Location: Burnet Woods, cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

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.

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SW OHIO PARENT'S

fun &

WACKY

calendar 07.2022

SUN

MON

TUES

WEDS

THURS

FRI

SAT

2

1 GINGERSNAP DAY

4

3 BUILD A SCARECROW DAY

GRAHAM CRACKER DAY

10 KITTEN DAY

5

11

18

19

EMOJI DAY

14 SHARK AWARENESS DAY

FRENCH FRY DAY

20

21 JUNK FOOD DAY

PRODUCT DAY

25

COUSINS DAY CAROUSEL DAY

SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com

VIDEO GAME DAY

FASHION DAY

15

GUMMI WORM DAY

16 WORLD SNAKE DAY

23

22

MOON DAY LISTENING DAY

RASPBERRY CAKE DAY 31

13

9

8

KISSING DAY

BLUEBERRY MUFFIN DAY

17

7 CHOCOLATE DAY

12

ETCH A SKETCH DAY

24

6

WORLD UFO DAY

26 DISABILITY INDEPENDENCE DAY

27

HAMMOCK DAY

28

29 TIGER DAY

WALK ON STILTS DAY

CHILI DOG DAY

SPRINKLE DAY

30 FRIENDSHIP DAY

July 2022 I ohParent.com

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