August 2022 | Southwest Ohio Parent

AUGUST 2022

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{INSIDE}

Back-toSchool

checklist GET PREPPED FOR A NEW SCHOOL YEAR

PLUS

Pick a Perfect Preschool

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After School Activity Ideas

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23 Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free

contents

// AUGUST 2022

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15 features

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The Ultimate Back-to-School Checklist 10 ways to prepare your child (and you!) for the big day back to school.

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Find the Best Preschool for Your Child Here's how to decide which kind of preschool would be a good fit for your preschooler.

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Neurodiversity 101

What is neurodiversity, and what does it mean for your child who thinks and learns differently?

departments In Every Issue 06 07 08 10

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

Resources & Calendars 18 Education Guide 23 After School Enrichment Listings

34 Things to Do in August 39 Fun & Wacky Calendar

Around Town 11 Hidden Gems:

Rosenthal Education Center

27 Local Spotlight: Learning Tree Farm

33 Little Foodies:

Kids Eat Free Guide

Mak's Bakery and Cafe

Here's where to find restaurants that offer free or cheap kids meals around town.

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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 Becca Reynolds becca@ohparent.com

Digital Publisher

Back on Track For a long time, I prided myself on keeping my two sons on a regular sleep schedule. No matter if they were in school or on summer break, their bedtime was 7:30 p.m.

I’m sure it’s going to take a while to get back into a consistent “school mode,” and I’m sure I’ll hear a lot of protests (“But mom, Robbie and Caden are still playing outside!”), so wish me luck.

This summer was a little different. “Mom, can I stay up just a little longer?” This was heard often at my house, especially by my oldest son.

Getting back into school mode is what we’re working on right now. If you’re right there too, then check out our Ultimate Back-toSchool Checklist on page 12 for 10 ideas for preparing your child (and you!) for the big day back to school. Summer was fun and went by in a f lash, and the first day of school will be here before we know it!

So this summer, I’ve loosened up on enforcing such a strict bedtime. My kids are getting older, and living in the Midwest means summer nights stay light out for a loooong time.

These past couple of months, bedtime has been leaning closer to 8 p.m., and some nights, for my oldest son, it means 9 p.m. or later.

But school is just around the corner. And although a 9 p.m. bedtime might work for some families during the school year, it just doesn’t for my kids. So that means soon, we’re going back to our regular bedtime of 7:30 p.m.

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Wendy Hasser wendy@ohparent.com

Digital Editor Rebecca Matteson rebecca@ohparent.com

Administration Brooke Litherland brooke@ohparent.com

Billing billing@ohparent.com

Contributing Writers Pam Freeman, Jennifer Thompson

Calendar of Events calendar@ohparent.com

Enjoy these last days of summer!

SW Ohio Parent is published monthly. Copyright 2022 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 KID:

LEWIE

age // 7 years old my favorites COLOR FOOD SPORT SCHOOL SUBJECT ICE CREAM FLAVOR RESTAURANT BOOK TV SHOW MOVIE TOY SUPERHERO CANDY

Golden Chicken Soccer Science Mint chocolate chip McDonald's Norse Mythology Last Kids on Earth The Grinch Action figures Thor Twix

an interesting fact about me //

I play hide and seek in a weird way. After you find them, you have to tag them!

when I grow up //

I want to be an architect!

COVER PHOTO BY:

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

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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.

Davina (8) Briar (4)

Naomi (7) and Eliza (1)

Charlie (5)

Jealynn (14) and Haidynn (13)

Mindy (6)

Want to see your cute kids on this page?

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Blake (10)

We're looking for photos of cute kids for the September 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!

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NEWS & Notes

Our monthly roundup of news you can use

Encanto: The Sing-a-Long Film Concert

at Riverbend Music Center Disney's Encanto comes to life in a one-of-a-kind concert event at Riverbend Music Center, featuring the entire feature-length film and an on-stage band. On August 26, celebrate all the hit songs from the beloved soundtrack of this Academy Award-winning film. Guests can also enjoy a free pre-show cookout (included with the price of each ticket), featuring favorites such as hot dogs and brats, coleslaw, potato salad and chips.

To find out more about this one-of-a-kind event, visit riverbend.org.

720 THAT’S HOW MANY CRAYONS THE AVERAGE CHILD GOES THROUGH BY THE AGE OF 10.

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DID YOU KNOW? Cincinnati is considered the unofficial home of cornhole, and spawned the first organized corn toss organization in the U.S.: The American Cornhole Association.

Find Unique Treasures at Charm on the Farm Everything old is new again at Charm at the Farm, an open-air vintage market happening August 19-21. Located on a 56-acre former Clydesdale horse farm in Lebanon, visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery while discovering unique treasures, home décor, furniture, gifts, clothing, food and much more. Charm on the Farm is held only three weekends per year, so grab your friends and family and enjoy a fun day of outdoor shopping! Kids 12 and under are free, and parking is free. Learn more and purchase tickets at charmatthefarm.com.

HIDDEN GEMS

WORDS BY REBECCA MATTESON

Rosenthal Education Center The Rosenthal Education Center in the Cincinnati Art Museum fosters a community where children can explore new mediums and use their robust imaginations. With family and art at the focus of the REC, interactive spaces, takehome art bags and project prompts fill the spacious center within the museum’s Great Hall.

Open during normal museum hours, the Rosenthal Education Center encourages families to drop in anytime and stay as long as their creative heart desires. Inspired by sculptural and painted portraits, children can try on costumes, choose items from bins to recreate famous still life pictures and create items from an art bar that is inspired by artwork around the museum.

With themes rotating twice a year, Cincinnati artists in residence provide interactive exhibits for families to immerse themselves in

different styles of art. Currently, residents Jim Tucker and Michael Thompson, with a passion for education, have created a space for children to reimagine and reinterpret artwork by Cincinnati artists like Nam June Paik’s robots, Robert Duncanson’s still life and Rookwood’s famous vases. Through October 30th, 2022, children can experience art through the multi-media artist’s eyes. Build a life-sized robot, swap magnetic faces and use elements to recreate famous art at the REC.

Generously donated to Cincinnati by the Rosenthals, the art museum and Rosenthal Education Center is free for all to enjoy. All activities inside the REC including take-home art bags, in studio projects and process art are free of charge and make a beautiful addition to your art room at home.

953 Eden Park Dr, Cincinnati cincinnatiartmuseum.org

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e the ultimat

CHECKLIST SIPE NICOLE ORDS BY

W

1 0 wa ys to prepa r e y ou r c h i ld ( an d y ou ! ) for the big day b ac k to s c h ool.

Getting your kids ready to go back to school isn’t just about buying new clothes and school supplies. (Although that’s a big part of it!) Here are some practical tips to brush up on in the months, weeks and days leading into the first day of school.

Get Pumped About School After a summer of fun and relaxation, it might be difficult for some kids to make the mental transition back to the school grind. In the weeks leading up to the first day, start talking about the fun activities and opportunities your child will have being in a new grade with a new teacher in a new classroom.

Brush Up on Learning Provide learning opportunities by encouraging reading, problemsolving and building new skills over the summer.

Aim for Adequate Shut-Eye A couple of weeks before school starts, re-establish a school-year bedtime routine, and make sure your child goes to bed at a time that will give them the recommended amount of sleep. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that kids ages 3 to 5 years get 10 to 13 hours of sleep, kids ages 6 to 12 years get 9 to 12 hours of sleep, and kids ages 13 to 18 years get 8 to 10 hours of sleep.

Go Shopping Prioritize Health and Wellness Ensure your child is in good physical and mental health by scheduling doctor and dental appointments well before school starts. If your child needs a sports physical in order to participate in sports during the school year, get that done over the summer, too.

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If your school has a supply shopping list, use it to go shopping with your child, either in-person at a store or online. Letting your child pick out their own supplies (within reason) sometimes adds to the excitement of going back to school.

Return to a Routine Knowing what to expect — and what is expected from them — on a daily basis will help most kids get back into the school routine faster. For visual learners, it might help to have a family calendar posted in a place where everyone can see it, with important dates and schedules listed.

Practice School Behaviors This is especially important for young students — and your child’s teacher will appreciate it, too! Go over basic school behaviors, such as raising your hand to get your teacher’s attention, taking turns, following the teacher’s instructions, waiting quietly in line, being polite to classmates, working quietly and independently, and other behaviors that your child might need to know in the classroom.

Set Yourself Up FOR Positivity Children are good at picking up on our moods. If you are feeling anxious or worried about your child going back to school, it can make your child feel anxious and worried, too. As much as you can, model optimism and confidence about the new school year.

Celebrate the End of Summer The night before school starts, have a little celebration to say so-long to summer. This can look like a special day-before-school-starts dinner, or ice cream or a fun treat for dessert, or one last pool party or run through the sprinklers.

Reach Out to Teachers After the school year has begun, contact your child's teachers, and let them know you want to be involved in helping your student learn and grow. Teachers appreciate an active caregiver who is invested in making the school year the best it can be!

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WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

Here’s how to decide which kind of preschool would be a good fit for your preschooler.

HINKING OF WHERE TO SEND YOUR CHILD TO PRESCHOOL MAY MAKE YOUR HEAD SPIN, AND IT’S NO WONDER. THERE ARE A LOT OF GREAT OPTIONS, AND IT CAN BE OVERWHELMING TRYING TO FIGURE OUT WHAT THE BEST FIT WILL BE — NOT ONLY FOR YOUR CHILD, BUT ALSO FOR YOUR FAMILY AS A WHOLE.

To make your decision a little easier, we’ve compiled a list of five things to consider that will hopefully help you get one step closer to finding the best preschool for your child.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION It might sound obvious, but when you pick a preschool, you want to be sure the location is a good fit for your family. If you are dropping off or picking up on the way to work, is the preschool on the way?

Do you want your child to develop relationships with classmates outside of school? If you choose a location close to home, it may be easier to plan playdates or activities. You will be spending a lot of time dropping off and picking up, and you want to make sure the location is practical for your family.

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CONSIDER THE SCHEDULE

CONSIDER THE COST

Will your child be eating lunch

Schools can vary greatly in cost depending on the number of hours a week your child will be in school, as well as the type of education being offered. You definitely don’t want a school that will break the bank, so make sure the monthly tuition is a good fit. Many schools also offer some form of scholarship for eligible students.

at school? Is there a naptime built in? How does the schedule work with the needs of other family members? Programs like Parents Day Out will typically have more hours to ensure parents can get a little break during the day. Some have shorter hours, but meet daily.

For kids just starting school who have not been in daycare prior, it might work well to start with a program that only meets a couple days a week. If your child needs a nap, but doesn’t nap well outside of home, you might want to consider programs with shorter days so that naptime is still prioritized.

MEET YOUR CHILD’S LEARNING NEEDS The great thing about preschool is that it is typically play-based learning. Young kids learn as they play and interact with other children. Some schools will be more student-led, like Montessori, Waldorf and Reggio Emilia schools. Others will be more structured with learning centers and blocks of time carved out for different activities. Also, consider the child-to-teacher ratio. If your child is easily overwhelmed or overstimulated, you might want to go with a school that has fewer children per class.

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THINK OF YOUR NEEDS, TOO If you want to be involved in your child’s learning, schools like cooperative preschools are spectacular for parents who want to be really hands-on with their child’s education.

According to Parent Cooperative Preschools International, “A parent cooperative preschool is organized by a group of families with similar philosophies who hire a trained teacher to provide their children with a quality preschool experience. The

THE BOTTOM LINE preschool is administered and maintained by the parents.

The parents assist the professional teachers in the classroom on a rotating basis and participate in the educational program of all the children. Each family shares in the business operation of the school (usually a nonprofit venture), thus making it truly a cooperative venture. Parents, preschool children and their teachers all go to school together and learn together.”

Other schools have room moms and preschool boards that parents can get involved with, as well as helping with seasonal parties. Be sure to ask what the expectations for parents are and make sure it matches up with what you are wanting.

As you are looking into schools, take tours and ask questions. Make a list of your family’s needs and priorities.

Talk to neighbors and friends, and find out about their preschool experiences. You can also learn about the schools and their communities through social media. The good news is that there are a lot of fantastic preschool options available.

With some time and research, you will find the best preschool for your child.

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EDUCATION GUIDE CHARTER Chai Tots Early Childhood Center Citizens of the World Charter School Academic excellence via a unique blend Our model focuses on social and emotional learning, project based learning, and difference and inclusion.

We empower children to think critically and learn to engage respectfully and productively with fellow students by developing their capacity to enter into and understand the lives of others. • 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 Street, Milford OH 45150, Contact: Kate Jordan, Phone: (513) 831-5806, Email: info@ amilliondreamslc.org, amilliondreamslc.org

The Campus at Kids First We have FULL DAY Kindergarten!

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

of Jewish and Montessori education offering strong academics, stressing life skills, interpersonal relationship skills and nurturing a love for life-long learning. Individualized curriculum customized for each student, expansive naturally lit rooms, low student ratio.

Specials include yoga, music, Hebrew, Spanish, dance, drama, art and Tae Kwon Do. Flexible schedules, before and aftercare, web cams and after-school enrichment available. Transportation available to/from Mason schools.

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

Creative Tots, Mason Our holistic approach allows children (18 months - 5 1/2 years) the opportunity to learn, explore, play and grow while engaging in the fine arts, science, music, yoga and a modernized curriculum. We provide opportunities to use creativity, solve problems, use language, develop new vocabulary and reading skills, while engaging in intellectual activities. There are elements of STEAM education, bilingual education, arts education, as well as lots of physical activities to strengthen the mind and body. • 6408

Thornberry Ct., Mason, OH 45040, Contact: Emilie Parry, Phone: 513-770-6776, Email: creativetotsmason@gmail.com, creativetotsmason.com, Grades: Toddler: 18 months-3 yrs, Preschool: 3-4 yrs; Pre-K: 4-5 yrs

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

Mercy Montessori Center Mercy Montessori is Cincinnati's first Catholic Montessori elementary school and provides students with a personalized education. Mercy offers a sliding scale tuition model, in-school

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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

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

Guardian Angels School Guardian Angels School provides students in preschool through eighth grade with a faith-filled experience focused on academic excellence, whole child education, and attention to each child’s unique learning needs. As a school, we push all of our students to earn their HALO through being Honest, Accountable, and a Leader to Others . • 6539 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati 45230, Contact: Mr. Corey Stoops, Principal, Phone: 513-624-3141, gaschool.org, Grades: Preschool - Grade 8

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

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

• 5086 Burkhardt Road Riverside, OH 45431,

Phone: (937) 256.1761, sainthelenschool.org

The Summit Country Day School Founded in 1890, The Summit serves students from 18 months to Grade 12.

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

* SPONSORED LISTINGS

hope for all and providing each The T.U.L.S.A. Learning Center student with the opportunity for Dayton's Premier Microschool Option!

Through individualized support, discussion, interest-based learning, and collaborative, hands-on activities, T.U.L.S.A will create a safe space for students and families to explore, engage, and be empowered as they prepare to make a lasting impact on the world. Located in the heart of downtown Dayton, our full-time, intentionally small classes, prioritize culturally responsive teaching and active learning experiences. • 17 S. St. Clair St., Dayton, OH, Contact: Michelle Person/Director, info@thetulsalearningcenter. com, Phone: (937) 550-1020, thetulsalearningcenter.com

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, socialemotional learning, and specialized therapies. We partner with families to create a respectful, rewarding and supportive environment, inspiring

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

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

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after school

E N R I C H M E N T L I S T I N G S

Gotta Dance Studios Anderson: 7892 Beechmont Ave. | Cincinnati, OH 45255 St. Bernard: 120 Washington Ave. | St. Bernard, OH 45217

(513) 232-9710 | gottadance-studios.com Two convenient locations in Anderson Township & St. Bernard. Complete offering of dance styles taught at beginner through advanced levels. Non-competitive, clean and safe environment where every student is accepted and challenged to excel – in studio or online. Develop technique, selfconfidence and artistic skills. Come dance with us!

Music Together of South Dayton Locations in Beavercreek, Centerville and Oakwood

(614) 499-4133 | musictogetherofsouthdayton.com Sing, dance, play and learn in a class with us this season! Several class settings and locations are offered for a safe, fun music-making experience for all. Along with weekly family music and movement classes, enrolled families also receive a songbook and code to download our award-winning music through the Hello Everybody app so they can continue the music enrichment at home. Classes offered for children under 8 (and the grownups who love them!)

Girl Scouts of Western Ohio 4930 Cornell Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45242 | (888) 350-5090 | gswo.org/getstarted

Girl Scouts helps girls in grades K-12 bring their dreams to life and work together to build a better world. Everything a Girl Scout does helps her find her people, discover her joy, and know her power – supported by trusted adult volunteers. Girls welcome to join year-round. Get started today!

West Chester Academy

8107 Market Place Dr., West Chester, OH 45069 | (513) 829-2345 | WestChesterAcademy.com

West Chester Academy has a place for you! Through the study of music, dance, gymnastics, acting, and more, we help students shine - on stage and in life. Here, students can find their niche, gain confidence, and be enriched. Enjoy the convenience of multiple activities under one roof. Contact 513-829-2345 today to schedule a risk-free introductory class.

USA Ninja Challenge Cincinnati

4727 Red Bank Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45227 | (513) 739-5528 | ninjacincinnati.com

Our 6,800 square foot facility is located on Red Bank Rd in Cincinnati. We incorporate ninja obstacles including rings, balance beams, cargo nets, ropes, a traverse rock wall, devil steps, horizontal peg board, warped wall, and more! Each obstacle also includes conditioning and flexibility stations.

The desired result of this program is to improve children's strength, flexibility, and athleticism while building self esteem and promoting a supportive, clean, and safe environment!

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[ENRICHMENT LISTINGS CONTINUED] CCM Prep 290 CCM Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45221 | (513) 556-2595 | ccm.uc.edu/arts4all/prep.html

CCM Prep offers music, dance and theatre arts for students of all ages and abilities — including classes for adults, children, teens and pre-professional students preparing careers in the performing arts. Both at CCM and through satellite locations and partnerships across Greater Cincinnati, we provide excellent, enjoyable and accessible performing arts opportunities that educate and inspire the whole student and serve as a catalyst for transforming lives and empowering communities.

Mutual Dance Theatre and Arts Centers

8222 Monon Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45216 | (513) 494-6526 | mutualarts.org

Dance and other arts classes for all ages (children AND adults!) in a safe, non-competitive, and nurturing environment. Mutual Dance Theatre and Arts Centers (formerly known as MamLuft&Co. Dance and Contemporary Dance Theater) offer classes just for fun or with more serious commitment. Join us in Hartwell, College Hill, or a satellite in Clifton during the year or the summer, at rates lower than most competitors.

Dayton History, Carillon Historical Park 1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, OH 45409 | (937) 293-2841 | daytonhistory.org

Carillon Historical Park is a 65-acre open-air history museum that serves as the main campus for Dayton History. We share the amazing stories of how Dayton changed the world! Come explore our campus and learn why "you can't go a day without Dayton!"

Dan Beard Council, Boy Scouts of America 10078 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45241 | (513) 577-7700 | danbeard.org

Scouting is fun with friends, leadership, and unique adventures your entire family will enjoy. In Scouting, boys and girls start with their best right now selves and grow into their very best future selves. It’s fun, action-oriented learning with peers that helps prepare your child for today – and for life.

Goldfish Swim School — Anderson/West Chester

Anderson: 8253 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati, OH. 45255 | (513) 813-5534 West Chester: 7058 Ridgetop Dr., West Chester, OH. 45069 | (513) 449-2751

goldfishswimschool.com Goldfish Swim School believes that your child deserves to have an incredible swimming experience in a safe and fun environment. Our swim lessons are designed to make learning fun through guided play for beginners to advanced swimmers from 4mo to 12yrs old. For a limited time, sign up for our Back to School Membership offer and receive a Goldfish Swim School crossbody bag FREE! We have two convenient locations in Cincinnati: Anderson and West Chester. Call us today to enroll.

Cincinnati Ballet's Otto M. Budig Academy 1801 Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45202 | (513) 562-1111 | cballet.org

Cincinnati Ballet's Otto M. Budig Academy brings the joy of dance to students of all ages through programs that support entry-level introduction to dance, as well as advanced professional-level training. The unique connection to Cincinnati Ballet provides unparalleled performance opportunities and student experiences.

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[ENRICHMENT LISTINGS CONTINUED] Indian Springs Academy of Music 9690 Cincinnati-Columbus Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241 | (513) 779-7070 | indianspringsacademy.com

Enrich your child’s life with skills and memories that last a lifetime! ISAM offers weekly private lesson instruction for Piano, Violin, Viola, Cello, Voice, Guitar and Music Theory studies. Our programs include Recitals, performance classes, flexible lesson plans and a private student portal. ISAM students enjoy marking their progress earning merit certificates at all levels through the RCM Certificate Program.

Greene County Parks & Trails 635 Dayton-Xenia Rd., Xenia, OH 45385 | (937) 562-6440 | gcparkstrails.com

Bring the whole family to Greene County Parks to experience engaging activities for kids of all ages, concerts, cruise-ins, hiking, cycling on paved trails, and so much more! There’s always something going on in Greene County! Thousands of acres. Miles of trails. It’s all right here in your own backyard!

Books Alive! For Kids® 4721 Reading Rd., Ste. 310, Cincinnati, OH 45237 | (513) 242-6028 | booksaliveforkids.com

Books Alive! For Kids® strengthens families and communities through the power of storytelling. Our subscription library, both digital and physical, is curated on inclusivity and learning is built upon play.

Immersed within the arts, we strive to improve literacy through connecting our stories, our lives, our history. Our suite of multi-disciplinary, multimedia, interactive learning programs all serve to spark the imagination while cultivating the joy of reading. Sign up at booksaliveforkids.com!

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AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY PAM FREEMAN

Local Spotlight: Learning Tree Farm This Dayton farm is helping to meet the growing demand for nature-based education in the community.

Class for 2.5- to 5-year-olds plus our last Farm School drop-off Saturday program for 8- to 11-year-olds. This program will be expanding to weekdays for homeschool families.

Learning Tree Farm is a working farm in Dayton that engages people in hands-on, nature-based learning. The non-profit farm connects the community with farming by hosting educational programs and learning opportunities throughout the year. Southwest Ohio Parent spoke with Heather Ritter, executive director of Learning Tree Farm, to learn more about the organization.

How does learning about farming and nature help the community?

Studies have shown that time spent in nature benefits the overall emotional health of all individuals. Through our educational programming, we hope to "plant seeds" in the sense that as children grow, they develop an appreciation and respect for the environment and become future stewards of our planet. Nature and farming education helps children and families connect with the world around them and see the bigger picture of how everything works together. Learning Tree allows children to go into our gardens, pens, pastures and woodlands to taste fresh vegetables, learn how to pick up chickens and to explore.

Can you give us a sneak peek at future plans for the farm?

Please share more about your farm literacy efforts.

What other neat programs do you have coming up?

Our farm has many programs that are based on literacy in nature. For our community programs like our Chickadee program, every session has a book that is read that goes along with the topic for that day.

Our Stories Alive field trip for 2nd to 5th grade allows students to read an easy-level chapter book and then come to the farm for a field trip based on that story. We recently installed a new Storybook Trail that will have a different story featured every couple of months and can change locations to encourage more exploration.

We plan to start Stories in the Straw this fall.

Our largest event of the year, Autumn Fest, is coming up on Saturday, September 17 with educational booths, food trucks, pony rides and hayrides. Our Four Seasons of Family Fun Saturday program will continue this fall and be all about our honeybees and how honey is made. We will also have a four-week fall Discovery

We are going to be expanding educational signage and our field trip programming to talk more about healthy soil through regenerative agriculture as well as the importance of pollinators. We also have plans to continue to grow our reach into urban communities.

Next year will be our 50th anniversary and we’re planning 50 things to do for our 50th. Stay tuned!

How can people help Learning Tree Farm and get involved?

We are always looking for new supporters! We accept monetary and gift item donations from our wish list. We are also always looking for dedicated volunteers who want to come out regularly and help us take care of the farm and animals! For more information about volunteering, donating or signing up for events or programs, visit learningtreefarm.org.

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Neurodiversity 101 What is neurodiversity, and what does it mean for your child who thinks and learns differently? uring the Autistic Rights Movement of the 1990s, a new term was coined to describe the brains of people with neurological differences. First used

by Australian autistic sociologist Judy Singer, the term “neurodiversity” became the springboard of what we know today as the Neurodiversity Movement.

d

Words Mat ter Neurodiversity in and of itself isn’t a new or contestable concept. It’s the scientifically backed idea that there are infinite variations within the human brain and how it functions. When people’s neurocognitive functioning falls within societal norms, they are known as neurotypical (NT), and when they don’t, they are neurodivergent (ND).

Neurodivergences can be innate — as in with conditions such as autism, dyslexia and ADHD — or they can be the result of an experience, like a traumatic brain injury or a long-term meditation practice, writes autistic scholar Nick Walker, PhD, in his blog Neurocosmopolitanism. Being neurodivergent, he says, isn’t in and of itself negative or positive, but depends on the person and their condition.

On the other hand, the neurodiversity paradigm — the concept on which the Neurodiversity Movement was built — is an emerging viewpoint that these neurological differences are normal and valuable. According to Carrie Steenbergen, a speech language pathologist and owner of TherapyWorks Cincinnati, the neurodiversity paradigm helps put the focus on the person and not the disability label.

“With labels, comes assumptions and stereotypes about those diagnoses,” she says.

While the neurodiversity paradigm is becoming increasingly accepted by those within the neurodivergent communities, as well as within the community at large, it is still a fairly new concept that not all have aligned with.

DIFFERENCE VS DI SABI LITY One of the major criticisms of the Neurodiversity Movement is that by normalizing neurodivergences — by seeing them as just differences — the movement downplays the need for support for neurodivergent individuals. However, as research psychologist and Autistic activist Jacquiline den Houting writes in “Neurodiversity: an insider’s perspective” for the peer-reviewed journal Autism, “neurodiversity advocates generally consider autism to be both a natural variation and a disability.” As a result, they are working toward services for ND people that improve their quality of life, respect their way of being, and are provided at their request and consent.

A Sense of I dentity Critics also believe that by moving away from “disability” terminology and instead framing conditions like autism as cultural identities (i.e., an “autistic person” versus “a person with autism”) does a disservices to the communities they indeed view as disabled. den Houting once again points out that the Neurodiversity Movement doesn’t actually deny that ND August 2022 I ohParent.com

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people have disabilities, but instead put the onus on society’s inability to adapt to neurodivergences.

“We can't expect neurodivergent people to conform to a neurotypical world,” Steenbergen clarifies. “Neurotypicals have to learn to accept and adapt to a neurodivergent person's way of thinking, feeling and doing just as much as neurodivergent people do."

Those within the movement believe that disabilities often can be minimized or eradicated through proper assistance and a posture of acceptance by the community at large, even for those with high support needs.

You and Your ND Ch i ld For parents of neurodivergent children, particularly those who just received a diagnosis, jumping into this conversation can be overwhelming.

“People are quick to throw out a label to explain away behaviors, challenges or differences in others, instead of just accepting that people are different and using the information we know about that person to accommodate their needs,” Steenbergen says. “This very much makes it feel like we are trying to force square pegs into round holes.”

She says while that getting a proper diagnosis is essential for getting your child the support they need, she wants to remind parents that the diagnosis is simply a label.

Full Spectrum Support And this idea of support circles around to a third major criticism of the movement: that the Neurodiversity Movement caters only to those with low support needs — or to put it in more traditional terminology, highfunctioning individuals. However, those in the movement see this dichotomous view of high-functioning versus low-functioning as erasure of the variability within the human brain. “For all humans, there are a number of different cognitive abilities in which we can excel or lack; we are all somewhere on the spectrum of human capability,” Nancy Doyle, an organizational psychologist specializing in neurodiversity, writes in Forbes.

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“None of us have a crystal ball and we can't predict a future outcome for a small child,” she says. “We know that therapy and intervention works and that we can make big gains when we assume competence and have high expectations for neurotypical and neurodivergent children alike.”

KIDS EAT FREE Here’s where to find restaurants that offer free or cheap kids meals around town.

Going out to eat can be a fun and convenient way to spend time with the family — but it can be pricey.

Check out this Southwest Ohio Parent’s Guide to find places that offer free or cheap kids’ meals so that a night out doesn’t break the bank. Always make sure to call beforehand to check the location’s participation.

KIDS EAT FREE EVERY DAY Chili’s Multiple locations My Chili’s Rewards members can receive Free Kids Meal rewards offers that can be redeemed in-restaurant or online.

Fricker’s Locations in Mason, North College Hill and West Chester Kids 10 and under eat free at Fricker’s with the purchase of an adult meal and kid’s beverage. Offer valid for dine-in only.

Golden Corral 4394 Glen Este-Withamsville Rd, Cincinnati Children 3 and under eat free from the buffet with the purchase of an adult meal.

IHOP Select locations around Greater Cincinnati Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult meal. Valid daily from 4-10 p.m.

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Old Bag of Nails Pub

Frisch’s Big Boy

Gold Star Chili

5234 Kings Mills Road, Unit 11&12, Mason

All Greater Cincinnati locations

All Greater Cincinnati locations

Enjoy one free Kids Mini Meal (12 & under) per adult purchase of $6.98 or more all day every Monday.

For each adult order of $8 or more from 4- 9 p.m. on Tuesday nights, customers can receive a free kid’s meal.

Quaker Steak & Lube

Hofbrauhaus Newport

Get one free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entrée valued at $6.99 or higher. Offer valid any day of the week with coupon available on website.

Rusty Bucket All greater Cincinnati locations Grab a Bucketeer Bookworm Bookmark Tracker and record five books for a free kids meal.

Skyline Chili Select locations around Greater Cincinnati Kids eat free on varying nights at participating Greater Cincinnati locations.

Call your local Skyline to check for participation.

KIDS EAT FREE MONDAY Buffalo Wings & Rings All Greater Cincinnati locations Kids eat free with a paying adult; $5 minimum purchase required.

Milford, Colerain and Florence locations All day Mondays, get a kid’s meal for $1.99 with each adult entrée purchase.

200 E. 3rd St., Newport, KY The second Tuesday of every month is Family Night! Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entree

KIDS EAT FREE TUESDAY Bob Evans Multiple locations Tuesdays are family nights, where kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entree after 4 p.m.

Denny’s Multiple locations Kids eat free from 4-10 p.m. Participation varies per location.

Joella’s Hot Chicken Select locations Free kids’ meal every day on Tuesday with the purchase of an adult meal (up to two free kids’ meals per 1 adult purchase).

Submarine House Locations in Dayton, Troy, Beavercreek and Hillard One free kids meal per $15 purchase; 4-8pm, dine-in only

LITTLE FOODIES

WORDS BY REBECCA MATTESON

Mak’s Bakery and Cafe Mak’s Bakery and Cafe in Blanchester is a lunch time delight with a variety of fresh charcuterie lunch boxes and baked goods.

GUIDE KIDS EAT FREE WEDNESDAY Texas Roadhouse Select locations Kids meals are $1.99 per adult meal purchased.

KIDS EAT FREE SATURDAY Izzy’s Select participating locations Kids ages 14 and under eat free all day Saturday. One free kids meal per paying adult. Dine-in only.

Buffalo Joe’s 6130 Dixie Highway, Fairfield

Steak & Shake

Kids eat free all day on Wednesdays with the purchase of an adult entrée.

Select participating Cincinnati locations

IKEA West Chester

On Saturdays and Sundays, kids 12 and under eat free with each $9 dine-in purchase.

9500 IKEA Way, West Chester Get 50% off kids meals.

WG Grinders 10 West Stroop Rd., Kettering Free kids meal with the purchase of an adult combo meal.

KIDS EAT FREE SUNDAY

In collaboration with Rustic Grains Co., Mak’s Bakery is home to the Children’s Summer Art series, with future classes extending into the school year. Weekly themed classes last an hour long and include a specially made treat just for the kiddos. With past themes like tie dye with popcorn bar, parade wands with cookies and ocean slime with under the sea snacks, the kiddos will go home with a fun art project and full bellies.

Inspired by watching her granny effortlessly pipe buttercream roses, shop owner and head baker, Kristen McVey, is no stranger to mom-ing through life at the bakery. With her nine children at the focus of her business, Kristen takes pride in offering an inclusive family-friendly cafe that welcomes families in all

walks of life. Deliciously moist cupcakes, chocolate chip cookie sandwiches, cake pops and cookies fill our sweet tooth cravings with delight.

Arguably one of the most fresh, fulfilling charcuterie lunch boxes around, Mak’s Bakery and Cafe has mastered lunch time. Mama’s personal favorite, the Chickadee, includes a heaping portion of Mak’s signature chicken salad with all the charcuterie fixins. Fresh vegetables, pistachios, cheese, grapes and gluten free crackers provide a safe meal for all dietary restrictions and lunch boxes even the pickiest young eaters will love.

With a cafe expansion underway, bringing baristas and a coffee bar into the bakery, Mak’s is a one-stop shop for families to have artsy fun, shop for gifts and re-energize with a healthy lunch and hearty espresso.

142 S. Broadway St., Blanchester tastemaks.com

Dickey’s Barbeque Pit Several Greater Cincinnati locations Kids 12 and under eat free every Sunday. Offer limited to one kid’s meal per $10 adult purchase. Not valid with any other offers or promotions.

KIDS EAT FREE THURSDAY Denny’s Various locations Kids eat free from 4-10 p.m.

Participation varies per location.

Steak & Shake Select participating Cincinnati locations On Saturdays and Sundays, kids 12 and under eat free with each $9 dine-in purchase.

KIDS EAT FREE FRIDAY Qdoba Select participating locations All day, get 1 free kids meal per adult meal purchased.

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THINGS TO DO //

MON 01 Everything Thomas Join

them for their celebration of Thomas the Train with Thomas-themed train layouts, videos, scavenger hunt, coloring and crafts. Enjoy the kid’s train ride PLUS get special discounts on Thomas & Friends merchandise! • Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, Time: 10 am- 6pm, entertrainmentjunction.com/calendar *ONGOING

Pretend & Play Does your child love pretending? Join them for play-based open sessions of fun with props, playsets and more! • Location: MidPointe Library Trenton, Time: 2-3 pm, midpointelibrary.org FREE

MON 01̶SUN 07 Space

Celebration at the Air Force Museum Come see a Lunar Rover Vehicle, special aircraft look-ins, model rocket launches, Space-Themed trivia, Star Wars costumed characters and SO much more! • Location: National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Time: 9 am- 5 pm, nationalmuseum.af.mil/upcoming/ space-celebration

TUES 02 Preschool Storytime in

the Nature Playscape Join them for a unique, outdoor storytime in the Nature PlayScape. The 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: Rowe Woods, Time: 10-10:30 am, cincynature.org

In Person Storytime: Library Babies Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories and movement. Recommended for ages birth – 18 months. Please register all babies and adults attending. • Location: Mariemont Branch Library, Time: 9:30- 10 am, chpl.org FREE

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WED 03 Summer Cinema: Inside Out Bring a blanket or lawn chair for free weekly movies at Washington Park. Food trucks will be on site and the bar will be open. • Location: Washington Park, Time: 9-11 pm, washingtonpark.org/series/summercinema-4 FREE

THURS 04 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 Mad Cap Puppets • Location: Smale Riverfront Park, Time: 10 am- 1 pm, cincinnati-oh.gov

THURS 04̶SUN 07 Glier's Goettafest Glier's Goettafest is a celebration of the local dish held along Newport's riverfront just down the steps from the Newport Aquarium and Newport on the Levee. In addition to eating goetta in a variety of dishes, festival goers can enjoy live music, dancing and goetta games. • Location: Newport on the Levee, goetta. com/goettafest/

FRI 05 Lantern Fest Before the lantern releases, enjoy sitting around the fire, grabbing a snack at our food trucks, decorating your lantern, making a s'more, participating in a scavenger hunt, and listening to music by the pond. A nighttime event that is fun for all ages! Bring a chair to enjoy a night in the park and see all of the hope, peace, and magic that will surround you. • Location Countryside Park, Time: 7-9:30 pm, facebook. com/events/5047643331939652

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:

Outdoors For All Expo The Outdoors for All Expo features exhibits and demos from local parks, outdoor outfitters, adventure experts and environmentally minded organizations, plus live music, local beer, food trucks and a Kids' Zone. • Location: Schmidt Recreation Center, Time: 4- 9:30 pm, ohioriverpaddlefest.org

FRI 05̶SAT 06 Lebanon Blues

Festival In historic downtown Lebanon, Ohio between Cincinnati and Dayton! Enjoy incredible Blues Bands, your favorite foods, a deluxe beer garden, and re-designed astisan and craftsman row. In addition to the free live blues music, gaze at over 150 classic cars in the Blues, BBQ , and Bumpers Car Show on Broadway Street! • Location: Downtown Lebanon, Time: Friday: 5-10 pm, Saturday: 11 am- 11 pm, lebanonbluesfestival.com FREE

SAT 06 Ohio River Paddlefest The Ohio River Paddlefest is recognized as the nation’s largest paddling celebration, with 2,000 participants traveling through downtown Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky in canoes, kayaks and other human-powered craft. • Location: Schmidt Boat Launch Ramp, Time: 7 am- 1:30 pm, ohioriverpaddlefest.org

Camp Jersey Presents Annie Jr. Join them this summer as you watch the favorite little orphan Annie. From “Hard Knock Life” to “Tomorrow,” these classic songs will warm your heart as you are reminded that “the sun'll come out tomorrow.” CAMP JERSEY is an opportunity for young performers, ages 7 - 14, to participate in daily voice, dance and acting classes and learn the ‘ins and outs’ of the world of musical theatre. • Location: Aronoff Center- Jarson-Kaplan Theater, Time: 3:30- or 7 pm, cincinnatiarts.org

10- 10:30 am, greatparks.org

FREE / free for families!

*ONGOING /a recurring event

*SN / special needs friendly

/ a SW Ohio Parent favorite!

Small Farm and Food Fest Join them for a whole day dedicated to eating healthy, small farms, hobby farming and homesteading skills. Educational talks on a variety of subjects will be held throughout the day. • Location: Carriage Hill Metro Park, Time: 10 am- 5 pm, metropark.org FREE

Owls Nest Park Family Fun DaysFeaturing the CSO Bring your whole family down to one of the following neighborhood parks for free family-friendly fun! You’ll enjoy: Food trucks, live music, bounce houses, face painters, balloon artists, carnival games, and more! • Location: Owls Nest Park, Time: 7-9 pm, cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

The Strong Kids Triathlon Join them for the 15th Annual Strong Kids Triathlon, they have have an updated course with new times. Swim, Bike and Run and receive a medal. • Location: YMCA at the Heights, Time: 7:30 am- 1 pm, daytonymca.org/programs/ strongkidstriathlon

SAT 06̶SUN 07 BrickUniverse Dayton LEGO Fan Convention This fun, family-friendly event will have tons of amazing LEGO creations to gawk at, building zones to unleash your creative energy, guest speakers and more in the LEGO theater, and vendors selling the latest LEGO sets, mini-figures, and accessories. • Location: Dayton Convention Center, Time: 10 am- 1pm & 2-5 pm, brickuniverse.com/dayton

SUN 07

Mini MakerSpace OpenHouse Join them on select Sundays for a tour of the mini makerspace and a chance to learn more about the equipment! • Location: St. Bernard Branch Library, Time: 2-4 pm, chpl.org FREE

MON 08 Super Sprouts at

Cincinnati Museum Center Let creativity run loose while experimenting with play-based art processes and projects for children under 5 years old.

Located in the Childrens Museum KIDSPACE. • Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, Time: 10:30 am, cincymuseum.org/events-calendar

MON 08̶FRI 12 First Responder

& Healthcare Worker Appreciation Week Coney Island salutes first responders and healthcare workers! First responders and healthcare workers will receive free General Admission (with a valid first responder or healthcare worker photo ID) and up to 4 additional guests will receive $5 off admission as a thank you to those who serve our community. This offer is valid at the gate only. • Location: Coney Island, coneyislandpark.com

WED 10 So Much S’More to Do!

There is no better way to celebrate National S’Mores Day than with a “create-your-own” S’Mores buffet, in the woods, with some good old summertime stories. And, these won’t be your average S’Mores, as there will be a menu of creations to enjoy! • Location: Caesar Ford Park,

Time: 6-8 pm, gcparkstrails.com

My Nose Turns Red Youth Circus Diverse circus performers will dazzle the audience with their circus skills and ability to engage audiences. Skills include unicycle, juggling, diabolo (Chinese Yo-Yo), hooping, wire walking, rola bola, and the fantastic gym (German) wheels. • Location: Kennedy Heights Park, Time: 6-7 pm, cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

WED 10̶SUN 14 FREE Days at

the Village Visit the Village for FREE and discover the history of Ohio during the 1800s. Several buildings will be open and interpreters in historical clothing will do demonstrations. • Location: Heritage

Village Museum, Time: Aug. 10-13, 10 am- 5pm, Aug. 14, 15pm, heritagevillagecincinnati.org/events/free-days-atthe-village/

THURS 11 Touch a Truck This outdoor event puts kids in the driver's seat of their favorite big vehicles. • Location: MidPointe Library Trenton, Time: 10 am- Noon, midpointelibrary.org FREE

Incredible Insects Come explore the prairie with park naturalist staff and discover all of thier favorite six-legged friends that live there! Crickets, grasshoppers and butterflies will be waiting to be observed. Bring a plastic (no glass please) container and a net for this catch and release program. Extra nets and containers will be provided. All children must be accompanied by an adult. • Location: Morris Reserve, Time: 10 am- 3pm, bellbrooksugarcreekparks.org FREE

FRI 12 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

Family Fun on the Hill: Meteor Shower & Home Family Fun on the Hill is a year round line up events that focus on family oriented fun. Throughout this year they will feature Movie Nights, Magic Shows, Ice Creams Socials, Kid's Activities and more! • Location: Pyramid Hill Sculpture

FRI 12̶SUN 14 Germanfest Picnic

The Germanfest Picnic is back with all the Gemuetlichkeit and many of the activities the visitors have come to know and love: lots of that delicious homemade German food, plenty of fantastic German and domestic bier and wein, your favorite bands playing in the biergarten, the Polka Mass, Culture Display, Kinder Korner and food and craft vendors. • Location: Dayton Liederkranz Turner, Time: see website for times, germanfestdayton.com

SAT 13 Wiggle Hoppers – Touch a Truck Come out to the Fairgrounds Recreation Center to get an up close look at the world of working vehicles. Firetrucks, dump trucks, ambulances and more will greet you. Kids can climb in, sit on and honk the horns of working vehicles. Bring along your cameras. • Location: Fairgrounds Recreation Center, Time: 10 am- 1 pm, gcparkstrails.com

Laurel Park Family Fun Days Bring your whole family down to one of the following neighborhood parks for free family-friendly fun! You’ll enjoy: Food trucks, live music, bounce houses, face painters, balloon artists, carnival games, and more! •

Location: Laurel Park, Time: 5-7:30 pm, cincinnati-oh.gov/ cincyparks FREE

Garden Adventures: Butterflies Flutter on by Highfield Discovery Garden to learn all about butterflies. Discover how these beautifully colored creatures help our gardens, how you can help them, and make your own butterfly! This program is recommended for ages 2 to 5. • Location: Highfield Discovery Garden, Time: 10- 11:15 am, greatparks.org

The OFF Market Bringing together a special group of small businesses, artisians, brewers, bakers, farmers, etc. for a unique shopping experience that supports the community and local economy. Located at the Summit Park, there are many activities and landscapes to interact with such as playgrounds, walking trails, splash and nature scapes, fishing ponds, bars, restaurants and more. • Location: Summit Park, theoffmarket.org

SAT 13̶SUN 14 Englewood Art

Festival The festival features lots of art vendors from around the area and beyond! This event also features a 5K race, parade, food, live entertainment and a car show on Sunday. • Location: Centennial Park, Time: Saturday, 8 am- 6 pm, Sunday, 11 am- 5 pm, englewood.oh.us/237/Englewood-Festival

Park and Museum, Time: 8 pm, pyramid hill.org/familyfunonthehill2022

TUES 09 Baby & Toddler

Storytime: Mother Goose on the Loose This award-winning early literacy-based program uses music, rhymes, stories, and more to stimulate the learning process for babies & toddlers. Birth - 24 months with a caregiver. • Location: Dayton Metro Main Library- Children's Creativity Space, Time; 10-11 am, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

SAT & SUN, AUGUST 06-07

BRICKUNIVERSE DAYTON LEGO FAN CONVENTION AT THE DAYTON CONVENTION CENTER

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SUN 14 Stricker’s Grove Family

Day Stricker’s Grove is a family owned and operated business. For this reason Stricker’s celebrates every year with an open to the public day called Family Day! • Location: Stricker’s Grove, Time: Noon- 8 pm, strickersgrove.com

FRI 19̶SAT 20 Bellbrook Lions

SummerFest Carnival rides, food, games, craft beer & wine tent, and live music! • Location: Bellbrook Lions Club, Time: Friday 5 pm- 11 pm, Sat: 4 pm- 11 pm, facebook.com/BellbrookLionsClub FREE

SAT 20 Free Star Gazes with the Cincinnati Reds VS Chicago Cubs 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 Ballpark, mlb.com/reds

MON 15 Up, Down, All Around in

the Garden Discoveries are everywhere in the garden! Toddlers and caregivers will find out what lives in the ground, up in the sky and all around in the Children's Discovery Garden and beyond. Enjoy songs, guided nature discovery and fun activities that vary each session.

Meet at the Children's Discovery Garden entrance.

Weather Dependent. • Location: Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, Time: 11 am- Noon, metroparks.org

TUES 16 Preschool Storytime

Enjoy books, songs, activities and more, while building early literacy skills. • Location: Symmes Township Branch Library, Time: 2-4 pm, chpl.org FREE

Cincinnati Observatory at Stonelick State Park The park is situated far enough from light-polluted suburbs to allow dark skies, yet close enough to the Cincinnati Metro area to attract hundreds of interested stargazers throughout the year. • Location: Stonelick State Park, Time: 7:30 pm, ohiodnr.gov FREE

Let's Go Hiking! Incredible Insects There are so many cool insects to find in the parks! Let’s go on a hike to see what insects live here, identify, and learn about them! Let’s see what you can find this summer. Insect nets will be provided. • Location: Huffman Park, Time: 10:30 am- Noon, yourmetroparks. net

Location: Washington Park, Time: 9-11 pm, washingtonpark.org/series/summer-cinema-4 FREE

THURS 18 Explore Ballet Let's explore ballet! You will learn all about ballet through movement, music, and books. Presented by Dayton Ballet. • Location: West Carrollton Branch Library, Time: 11 amNoon, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

Everything Thomas Through September 11. Join them for their celebration of Thomas the Train with Thomas-themed train layouts, videos, scavenger hunt, coloring and crafts. Enjoy the kid’s train ride PLUS get special discounts on Thomas & Friends merchandise!

• Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, entertrainmentjunction.com *ONGOING

FRI 19 Float-In Movie:

Ghostbusters: Afterlife Enjoy a movie from the comfort of your own boat at Winton Woods!

Adventure, comedy or suspense? Whatever your favorite movie genre, there is something for everyone at this event.

Tonight’s film is, “Ghostbusters: Afterlife.” Concessions will be available for purchase each evening. • Location: Winton Woods, Time: 9:30 pm, greatparks.org

SUN, AUGUST 14 STRICKER'S GROVE FAMILY DAY AT STRICKER'S GROVE

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Creative Crafting Family Drop-In Activity Drop in to Southeast for a fun and easy craft for children of all ages. All supplies will be provided – all you need to bring is your creativity! • Location: Southeast Branch Library, Time: 10 am- Noon, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

WED 24 Miss Amanda's

Storytime Bring the entire family to enjoy books, songs, and activities, while building literacy skills.

Recommended for birth through age 5. No registration required. • Location: College Hill Library, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, chpl.org FREE

THURS 25 RiverScape Summer

Music series: Neo American Pioneers Enjoy the sounds of original rock music

by The Neo American Pioneers. Based right here in Dayton, you won't want to miss this band's refreshing take on rock and roll! Pull up your chair for music, food, and dancing by the Great Miami River! Weather Dependent.

• Location: RiverScape MetroPark, Time: 7-9 pm, metroparks.org FREE

SAT 20̶SUN 21 Dayton African

American Cultural Festival This family event brings the richness of the African American experience to Dayton and its surrounding communities through culture, education and music. Come see an African Village, a pavilion of paintings and enjoy live R&B, Gospel and Jazz performances. Merchandise and food vendors will be on site. • Location: Island MetroPark, Time: Saturday, Noon- 8 pm, Sunday Noon- 6, daacf.com

WED 17

Summer Cinema: Good Burger with Frisch's Bring a blanket or lawn chair for free weekly movies at Washington Park.

Food trucks will be on site and the bar will be open. •

TUES 23

Fairborn Sweet Corn Festival This is a family-oriented event will have approximately 180 handmade arts and crafts booths and food vendors. Enjoy favorite foods, crafts, activities for children including a train ride, pony rides, and the Big Bounce and more! • Location: Fairborn Community Park, Time: 11 am, fairbornsweetcornfestival.org/index.html FREE

SUN 21 Back to School Party with PJ Library Families are invited to come celebrate the end of summer and kick off the start of the school season with Kona Ice and your PJ Library friends! • Location: Weller Park, Time: 3:30- 4:30 pm, mayersonjcc.org

MON 22 Outdoor Storytime in the

Park: Meade Historic Preserve Join them for storytime in the great outdoors! Listen to stories, enjoy a snack, walk the StoryWalk, and grab a take and make activity. • Location: Meade Park, Time: 10-10:30 am, chpl.org FREE

FRI 26 Encanto: The Sing Along

Film Concert Disney Concerts have announced the Encanto: The Sing- Along Film Concert Tour, where Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Academy Award®- winning film comes to life in a one-of-a-kind concert event, featuring the entire feature- length film and an on-stage band celebrating all the record-breaking hit songs from the beloved soundtrack. • Location: Riverbend Music Center, Time: 6 pm, riverbend.org/ concerts/2022/08/encanto-the-sing-along-filmconcert

Family Fun at Rapid Run The Rapid Run Advisory Council and Cincinnati Parks invites you to bring the family out to the beautiful lake at Rapid Run Park for an evening of music, movies, and canoes! • Location: Rapid Run, Time: 6-9 pm, cincinnati-oh.gov/ cincyparks

Parents’ Night Out is Kids First Sports Center Monthly Friday night blast that gives parents a chance to enjoy an evening alone and kids the opportunity to blow off some steam in a themed night of high-energy fun! • Location: Kids First Sports Center, Time: 6-9 pm, kidsfirstsports.com

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

SAT, AUGUST 20 LET'S GO HIKING! INCREDIBLE INSECTS AT HUFFMAN PARK

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

SAT 27 Post No Ill:

Hello & Welcome Community Day Enjoy a day of painting and self-expression! Lance Johnson, a Columbus-based artist with roots in graffiti and street art, will collaborate with local youth to layer vibrant colors, textures, and words of inspiration on a large cube structure installed on the front lawn of the arts center • Location: Kennedy Heights Arts Center, Time: 11 am- 3 pm, kennedyarts.org FREE

Bat Night You will learn about local bats, play some batty games, make a bat craft, and go on an evening hike to see if you can spot some of their flying mammal friends. Local bat rehabilitator Anita Buck will be their guest to share fascinating bat information and possibly have live bats, too! • Location: LaBoiteaux Woods Nature, Time: 7-8:30 pm, cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

Redlegs Run Join runners and walkers in the Annual CollegeAdvantage Redlegs Run and help raise funds for the Reds Community Fund. Walkers and runners of all ages are welcome. All participants will receive a custom race medal, race t-shirt, professional chip-timing with live results, free downloadable race photography, a post-race party in the Fan Zone and one (1) View Level ticket voucher to the Reds vs Pirates game on September 12th. • Location: Great American Ballpark, race-reds.com/events/2022-collegeadvantageredlegs-run

FRI 26̶SUN 28 Annual Egyptian

Festival Enjoy the exquisite flavors of Egypt as you sample such items as stuffed grape leaves or grilled shish kabob and Baklava, continue by shopping for Egyptian jewelry, arts & crafts. Bring your kids to enjoy the carnival games and face painting and make sure not to leave before going on a church tour where you can learn about the rich history of the Coptic Orthodox Church. • Location: St. Mina and St. Abanoub Church, stminastabanoub.org FREE

SUN 28 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/ open-houses *ONGOING

MON 29 Jump, Wiggle & Shout

This program is all about silly wiggles, goofy babbles, having fun and making friends. Your little one will have a blast movin’ and groovin’ to music while developing coordination, balance, listening skills, and gross motor skills. An adult companion must attend. • Location: Park

TUES 30 Storytime: Toddler Join Miss Ashley as she encourages emerging language skills with books, rhymes, music and fun! Recommended for ages 18 months – 36 months. Storytime will be held inside the meeting room. Masks are encouraged, but not required for caregivers. • Location: Pleasant Ridge Branch Library, Time: 10:30-11 am, chpl.org FREE

WED 31 Summer Cinema: Harry

Potter and The Prisoner of Azkaban Bring a blanket or lawn chair for free weekly movies at Washington Park. Food trucks will be on site and the bar will be open. • Location: Washington Park, Time: 9-11 pm, washingtonpark.org/series/summer-cinema-4 FREE

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 the Levee, newportonthelevee.com/kids-crew FREE

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

ONGOING EVENTS Everything Thomas Through September 11. Join them for their celebration of Thomas the Train with Thomas-themed train layouts, videos, scavenger hunt, coloring and crafts. Enjoy the kid’s train ride PLUS get special discounts on Thomas & Friends merchandise!

• Location: EnterTRAINment Junction,

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

entertrainmentjunction.com

Western & Southern Open Select days, August 13-21. This Men's and Women's combined tennis tournament has hosted stars like Federer, Nadal, Sharapova and Serena Williams who all come to Cincinnati to compete for this prestigious title.

Fans come from 50 states and 30 countries to sample the region's best food, wine and entertainment. Come experience the tournament that happens in only five places in the world and that has been held in the Cincinnati area since 1899. • Location: Lindner Family Tennis Center, wsopen.com

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, cincinnatioh.gov/cincyparks/visit-a-park/find-a-parkfacility/ krohn-conservatory

The Science Behind Pixar 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, Extended through Summer!

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.

District Headquarters, Time: 11 am- Noon, bellbrooksugarcreekparks.org

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SW OHIO PARENT'S

fun &

WACKY

calendar 08.2022

SUN

MON

TUES

WEDS

1 SPIDERMAN DAY

THURS

2

FRI

3 WATERMELON DAY

COLORING BOOK DAY

8

FRIENDSHIP DAY

INTERNATIONAL CAT DAY

9 BOOK LOVERS DAY

14

15

16

CREAMSICLE DAY

RELAXATION DAY

ROLLER COASTER DAY

21

22

23

10 S’MORES DAY

17 THRIFT SHOP DAY

EAT A PEACH DAY

28

29 HEROES’ DAY

BOW TIE DAY

CUBAN SANDWICH DAY

30

12 WORLD ELEPHANT DAY

18

24

25

STRANGE MUSIC DAY

DISC GOLF DAY

13

LEFTHANDERS DAY

19

20

WORLD PHOTOGRAPHY DAY

GEOCACHING DAY

FAJITA DAY

BURGER DAY SENIOR CITIZENS DAY

UNDERWEAR DAY

11 PLAY IN THE SAND DAY

6

5

4

CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE DAY

7

SAT

27

26 WOMEN’S EQUALITY DAY

TUG OF WAR DAY

31

SLINKY DAY EAT OUTSIDE DAY

SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com

August 2022 I ohParent.com

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