Cincinnati Parent // 09.2012

Cincinnati

PARENT SEPTEMBER 2012 | FREE

cincinnatiparent.com

learning adventures

& EXPERIENCES

preparing your child for college a year-by-year guide

DE C I S ION S, DE C I S ION S 1 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

picking a school for your child

TUITION FREE

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You can be proud of the choices you have in Cincinnati Public Schools — Ohio’s highest-rated urban school district. Our schools offer many innovative programs — at no cost

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to you — that will ensure your child’s

cincinnati public schools www.cps-k12.org

success. We’ve added more rigor and a wide variety of enrichment opportunities to keep learning fun.

Our teachers work in teams so that every student makes appropriate progress. And, because of our small class sizes, students get the ndividualized attention they deserve.

To enroll, contact our Enrollment Hotline at 513-363-0513 today!

SEPTEMBER 2012 [ cincinnati parent] 3

4 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

s

3

DEC 7-9 & 15, 2012

OCT 19-21 & 27, 2012

r er fo d s Hol t e re et G ick t& nT ee aso M t Se as w C l ho cia 4-S e Sp & w ho -S

APR 12-14 & 20, 2013

FEB 15-17 & 23, 2013

SUBSCRIBE TODAY! 513.569.8080 www.thechildrenstheatre.com All performances at The Taft Theatre

SINGLES TICKESTALE

GO ON

BER 4 SEPTEM AM AT 10

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

2012- 2013 MAINSTAGE SEASON FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

tctcincinnati

2012- 2013 ARTREACH TOURING SEASON SEPT 14 – DEC 14, 2012

ArtReach brings live theater, great literature, life connections, song, dance and drama right to your door. Our six productions travel to theaters, schools and libraries throughout the region.

SEPT 22, 2012 – NOV 11, 2012

JAN 28, 2013 – MAY 31, 2013

SEPT 22, 2012 – NOV 11, 2012

JAN 28, 2013 – MAY 31, 2013

NOV 26, 2012 – DEC 21, 2012

For more information contact us at 513.569.8080 ext. 22 or www.thechildrenstheatre.com

SEPTEMBER 2012 [ cincinnati parent] 5

contents 09.12

features

around town

16 | PREPARING FOR COLLEGE

15 | CINCY ON A BUDGET Saving for college

12

A year-by-year guide on college preparation

18 | DECISIONS, DECISIONS

resources

Picking a school for your child

childcare GUIDE

28 | LEARNING ADVENTURES & EXPERIENCES

34 | MARKETPLACE

PUBLIC

21 | education/

34 | BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE

PRIVATE 18

Exciting field trip ideas for children!

calendars 32 | SEPTEMBER EVENTS

in every issue 08 | PUBLISHER'S NOTE

33 | ONGOING EVENTS 35 | FUN + WACKY

10 | COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT 14 | ONLINE BUZZ

24 commentary + parenting 12 | MOMMY MAGIC The balancing act of motherhood

24 | DEAR TEACHER 27 | EVERY MOTHER HAS A FAVORITE Stay-at-home dad, Pete Gilbert 6 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

28

All for one ... and one for all!

for adventure.

By Ken Ludwig

Adapted from the novel by Alexandre Dumas

Sept. 1 – 29, 2012 When D’Artagnan and his plucky sister Sabine aspire to join the famed Musketeers, they uncover dangerous rivalries in this actionpacked adventure for the entire family.

Special price for kids!

Recommended for ages 8 and up.

Sponsored by The Otto M. Budig Family Foundation

Join the Ranks of the Musketeers Kids are invited to join us for Musketeer Training Camp prior to each Saturday matinee! Includes a 30-minute stage fighting workshop, complete with a takeaway toy sword. $10. Space is limited.

Training camp tickets do not include the price of a children’s ticket to see The Three Musketeers. Production tickets for children are $25 each.

Call 513-421-3888 or visit www.cincyplay.com for tickets.

Season presented by The Otto M. Budig Family Foundation and Heidelberg Distributing Company.

SEPTEMBER 2012 [ cincinnati parent] 7

in every issue

Cincinnati

PARENT

[ publisher’s note ]

PUBLISHER Mary Wynne Cox | publisher@cincinnatiparent.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Katie Pfierman | katie@cincinnatiparent.com EDITOR Katie Wynne | kwynne@cincinnatiparent.com ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Jenny Swain | jenny@cincinnatiparent.com

Fall Has Arrived

BUSINESS MANAGER Roxanne Burns | roxanne@cincinnatiparent.com

September is always a month of transition. The kids are settling back into their school routines and tackling the new challenges in learning that come with each school year. Parents, too, are settling back into the day-to-day – packing school lunches, juggling after-school activity schedules, and carving out much-needed family time. In this issue of Cincinnati Parent, we offer some guidance on creating fun, family outings that take learning beyond the classroom. In our Learning Adventures and Experiences article, we discuss some unique places in and around Cincinnati that will help your family combine learning and fun.

Although a new school year has just begun, many parents are already thinking ahead to next year in making that big decision: public vs. private school. There are so many factors to consider when deciding which school is right for your child – it can be very overwhelming for a parent! Our Decisions, Decisions article breaks down the choices that are out there in an effort to help you decide which option is right for your child.

Your baby is all grown up and it’s time to start thinking about college. Even though they may still seem so young, your child needs to start college preparations as early as freshman year. The college process does not need to a be a scary one – if you and your child are prepared each step of the way, the road to dorm rooms, afternoon classes, and college football will be an easy one. Our Preparing Your Child for College segment offers tips on taking the planning process one year at a time in order to make the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible for both you and your child.

Of course, as we are all too aware, it is never too early to start planning for the financial aspect of a college education. This month’s Cincy on a Budget offers advice on planning ahead for one of the largest investments you will ever make: your child’s education.

Record-breaking temperatures are a thing of the past. Cool, crisp September evenings are here to stay, and we are loving every minute of it. Happy Fall to all of our Cincinnati Parent readers.

EVENTS COORDINATOR & PUBLIC RELATIONS Wendy Cox | wendy@cincinnatiparent.com OFFICE MANAGER Karen Ring | karen@cincinnatiparent.com INTERN Tessa Judge | tessa@cincinnatiparent.com AD CREATION Heather Lipe | heather@amplifydesign.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Krista Bocko, Mary Susan Buhner, Mary Wynne Cox, Marge Eberts, Pete Gilbert, Peggy Gisler, Tessa Judge, Sarah McCoshamm CALENDAR OF EVENTS calendar@cincinnatiparent.com CONTACT US 9435 Waterstone Blvd., Suite 140 | Cincinnati, OH 45249 PHONE: 513.444.2015 | FAX: 513.444.2099 EMAIL: info@cincinnatiparent.com

COPYRIGHT Cincinnati Parent Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2012 by Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary or services herein. For information on subscriptions, editorial guidelines, advertising rates a n d m o re v isi t w w w.cincinnatipa re nt.c om.

Mary Wynne Cox Publisher

8 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

UC Blue Ash College & City of Blue Ash

The tri-state’s premier performing arts series for kids features a fantastic lineup of puppets, plays, marionettes, music, comedy, and more! Join us for this exciting introduction to the arts as they delight, inspire, and awaken the imagination.

October 27, 2012

January 19, 2013

The Frisch Marionette Company

Madcap Puppets

Rumpelstiltzkin

November 17, 2012

February 23, 2013

A World Music Safari Adventure

Theatre IV

The Button People: Mystic Drumz

TickeTs Now oN sale!

Aronoff Center • October 16-28 BroadwayInCincinnati.com

The Cinderella Files

ARTrageous performances are held at 11:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m. in the Muntz Theater on the campus of UCBA.

Thumbelina

March 16, 2013

E Sin Mi d’Afrika

(Come Follow Me to Africa)

Bi-Okoto Cultural Institute

For more information, please visit www.ucblueash.edu/performingarts or call (513) 745-5705

513.621.ARTS • Groups 10+: 513.369.4363

SEPTEMBER 2012 [ cincinnati parent] 9

in every issue

[ community spotlight ]

community S POT L IGH T

shop, dine, & enjoy!

Two new events at the Deerfield Towne Center Deerfield Towne Center is northern Cincinnati's premier lifestyle shopping center and home to over 50 national brand stores, specialty boutiques, one-of-a-kind furniture stores, exclusive restaurants, great entertainment, and Regal Cinema, all close to home. In September, the Deerfield Towne Center

baby baby boom boom baby expo

September 15: Deerfield Township will be holding their first

Sunday, September 9, 3-7pm

annual Touch a Truck event at Deerfield Town Center. This

On September 9, be sure to check out the Baby Baby Boom Boom Baby Expo at the Elements Conference and Event Center from 3:00-7:00pm. At the Baby Baby Boom Boom Baby Expo, you will find things for both you and your baby to enjoy. For babies, the expo will be featuring an exciting fashion show, face painting, a bouncehouse, and more. And for all the moms, the expo will be featuring welcome mommy packages, a mommy pamper area, over 50 vendors, and more!

event will showcase the communities service vehicles as well as the people who use them every day. Come meet K-9 cops, see SWAT team vehicles and check out the size of the scoops on a snowplow! This event is FREE! September 19: Massage Envy at Deerfield Towne Center will be a part of “Healing Hands For Arthritis”, $10 of

Are you a new mom or soon-to-be mom? Then this is the event for you!

At the Baby Baby Boom Boom Expo, you can learn all about baby wellness, the ins-and-outs of childbirth, how to change and feed your baby, and how to install a carseat.

[

every 1 hour massage will be donated to the Arthritis Foundation. There will be lots of in house raffles and giveaways (including mall gift certificates), and a full house of therapists

Admission to the Baby Baby Boom Boom Expo is $10. For more information, visit www.babybabyboomboom.com or call 513-680-5150.

will be on hand to raise money and awareness for the Arthritis

[

Foundation!

save money by couponing!

Couponing workshops held at the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County Tired of paying full price for groceries and other household items? Then check out these informational workshops hosted by the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County on how to save money by couponing.

Coupon blogger Andrea Deckard from SavingsLifestyle.com will lead these workshops and will cover two topics: “Drugstore Shopping and Saving Secrets” and “Couponing and Grocery Savings.” At the workshops, you will gain a better understanding of how to shop with coupons and learn how to take full advantage of the rewards programs drugstores offer. With a little help from Deckard, you can start achieving savings of 50% or more! Now who doesn’t want that?

[

will also be home to two great events:

[

Registration is required to attend the workshops. Visit www.savingslifestyle.com/coupon-classes to register. For more information from the Public Library on dates and times, visit www.cincinnatilibrary.org/press/.

early childhood education conference & expo Friday-Sunday September 7-9, 2012 The Cincinnati Early Childhood Education (ECE) Conference & Expo is a ground breaking initiative that is designed to supply a one-stop, multifunctional platform that brings together over 1,000 early childhood educators, across a wide variety of programs, disciplines, and interest areas for teachers, parents, speech pathologists, preschools, and all who are committed to closing the education achievement gap in America.

The Cincinnati ECE Conference & Expo has been tailored to meet the needs of early childhood educators. The ECE Conference and Expo is packed with three full days of information, training, keynote speakers, and resources that will enable and equip early childhood educators and parents with the tools to guide our children towards reaching their full potential.

The conference will be held at the newly renovated Sharonville Convention Center from September 7-9, so mark your calendars!

This is one event you won’t want to miss.

10 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

Infants • Toddlers • Preschool • Montessori • Kindergarten

Live webcams in every classroom 6 weeks to school age

The Willow Tree House Daycare & Preschool • Full day academically focused Preschool • Small child to staff ratios • Individualized learning • Caring, talented & degreed teachers • Ages 6 wks—5 yrs • Spanish, music, yoga and library program

Join us for a 5 year anniversary celebration!

September 14th 4-7 pm Bounce House, Corn Hole & much much more!

All families welcome!

Hamilton County Vouchers accepted

VISIT US ON

(513) 281-8733 —

thewillowtreehouse.com

Helping Kids Develop

A Love for Music

Mount St. Joseph Talent Education Music Conservatory

1/2 Day and Full Day Programs Morning Preschool Programs

Violin, Piano, Cello • Private and Group Lessons Dr. Alice Ann O’Neill, Director

Currently accepting new registrations

5900 West Chester Rd • West Chester • 513-874-3100 • www.kindergardenschool.com 10969 Reed Hartman Hwy. • Blue Ash • 513-791-4300 • www.kindergardenschool.com

SETTING THE STANDARD IN EARLY CARE & EDUCATION NAEYC Accreditation: The highest benchmark of quality in early childhood education. Meet our talented & degreed faculty!

Family Friendly Programming: Offering flexible full and parttime programs for children 6 weeks - 12 years in a warm and welcoming environment. Hours 6:30AM-6:30PM Mon-Fri. Extensive Parent Communication: Progressive Reggio inspired curriculum supported by amazing documentation, including portfolios for every child, & daily e-mail highlights!

Call 513-377-7033 or email: aao@srcharitycinti.org

MSJ_TEC ad.indd 1

8/2/12 1:13 PM

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

Over 2,700 fans and counting

www.AboutCompass.com

9370 Waterstone Blvd. ● Cincinnati, Ohio ● 513.683.8833

SEPTEMBER 2012 [ cincinnati parent] 11

commentary and parenting

[ mommy magic ]

The Balancing Act of Motherhood Spinning the plate with your name on it just a little faster

With summer wrapped up and kids in school, the plate spinning is changing. Back-toschool time is the perfect time to start spinning the plate with your name on it a little faster. Reclaim yourself and commit to getting yourself back on track.

With that, I am happy to share a few tips that have been personally successful in spinning my plate faster:

1. Make a date with yourself One of the best ways to start this process is to actually get out of your house and go somewhere quiet. Plant yourself in a library, a coffee house, wherever you can find some peace and, possibly, inspiration. Personally, if I am at home, it is easy to keep the focus off of myself by doing a load of laundry or cleaning up dishes. It helps me to actually make an appointment with myself – out of the house – and, most importantly, to keep it.

2. Seek new opportunities to grow outside of your comfort zone Make it a point to read a new book, sign up for a cooking class, or join a Zumba class.

Get a new hairstyle, take an art class, learn a new instrument, or volunteer for a cause that means something to you in order to have some new experiences.

3. Take care of yourself Schedule your annual pap test with your OB/GYN, your annual mammogram, and annual dental appointment. Do you ever notice we, as moms, tend to put ourselves last on the to-do-list when it comes to our health? The irony of it is that we have to stay healthy in order to care for our family. Make your annual appointments and go so that you stay healthy for your family and yourself.

4. Connect with Friends Mary Susan Buhner

The balancing act of motherhood requires constant effort. Sometimes, I visualize myself spinning five delicate glass plates on top of a tall, skinny pole. My first instinct is keep them from crashing to the ground as to avoid the clean-up. Top priority plates may spin faster than others and some may slow down when I start to grow weary.

What I have come to realize is though the plates may spin at various speeds and go in different directions, it is possible to keep them all steady. Sounds a lot like motherhood, right? Though the chores and activities and obligations pile up, the multi-tasking and on-the-job training as a mom enables me stable the wobbly plate before it falls. Such is the balance of all things in the world of motherhood. It’s not expected that you keep all plates spinning at the same rate; merely keeping them all going without falling is truly an accomplishment.

12 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

Somehow over the summer I tend to let my own friendships fall to the side. I suppose it is because I am, like you, spinning the plates so fast that I just run out of time. With the kids back in school, make a list of friends that make you laugh, inspire you, and empower you. Set up a coffee date, a time to go for a walk, or meet for lunch.

Friendships and a good support system are vital for us moms. If you are like me, a visit with a good friend will reenergize you.

5. Just Breathe While it seems to be a comically simple concept, it’s an important one. Once the kids are out of the door, take a deep breath. Enjoy the peace and quiet. Sometimes I find myself so busy that I actually hold my breath without realizing it. With the schedule shifts, take some deep breaths, just be still, and embrace the change!

Join the Mommy Magic’s Fan Page on Facebook and visit www.Mommy-Magic.com to be a part of the mom community that supports and encourages moms in Indy with helpful tips for motherhood!

Get your tushy to the best playdate in town!

Shalom Family’s

Featuring the ever engaging, always entertaining,

The 2nd & 4th Sunday of every month at Gymboree, Mason.

Snack and chance to win a $50 Target gift card every time.

Advance RSVP required!

The Academy provides a place for children to grow and learn the skills necessary to be productive citizens with a multi-culturally diverse environment.

The Academy has a fully licensed FT and PT Preschool program providing a balanced learning experience aimed at total student development.

8094 Plantation Drive | West Chester, OH 45069

513-755-0169 www.intlacademy.org

Paid Consumer Research For Moms

“I got PAID to meet other Cincinnati moms and share my opinions on baby products with the people that matter - I never thought research would be this FUN!”

CINCINNATI MOMMIES! We need YOUR HELP!

• We are looking for expectant mothers or mothers of a child age 0 - 3 years old

And get lots of FREE stuff for you & your parents!

Including: A Tushy Towelettes-to-Go container, books, resources and other great items just for Jewish babies, delivered right to your door 3 times a year!

• Compensation varies based on study duration, i.e. $40 - $100 for 1-2 hours of time • Conveniently located at our Blue Ash or West Chester offices

Both programs are initiatives of The Mayerson Foundation and are open to families with children 2 years and younger in which at least one parent is Jewish.

Join now! It’s FREE!

Call 513-603-6340 or register online at www.littleviewpoints.com Follow us on: SEPTEMBER 2012 [ cincinnati parent] 13

online buzz check OUT

SEPTEMBER’S

facebook freebie fridays & weekly e-newsletter

+

CONTESTS

> LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

I would be very much in favor of a modified year round schedule - a 6 week summer break and several 2 week breaks through the year. - Cara H. Would be easier...also for parents to split up child care costs that way.

- Christina A.

I think I would be for it. Then I could work p/t all year and match my schedule/vacations to his. And honestly, the summer is a bit long. - Tiffany H. Against it!!! The thought of homework and projects 12 months out of the year makes me want to hide!!! - Teri S.

> FOLLOW US ON TWITTER > SIGN UP for our weekly e-newsletter at cincinnatiparent.com

14 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

No, and I would be COMPLETELY against it! My daughter needs this break, and I love having her around all summer! - Stephanie E.

I would be 100% for it. - Kim J.

for a chance to win:

Blue Man Group Tickets

“Has your school switched to a year long schedule? Are you for it, or against it?”

Renaissance Festival Tickets

“Like” us on Facebook to Join in the Conversations!

Over 2,700 Fans and Counting...

Cincinnati Pops’ Lollipops Family Concert Tickets

Lazer Kraze Birthday Party Package

[ cincy on a budget ]

around town

Saving for College Melissa Fears When it comes to saving for college, thinking about the future cost can be scary. If you need to save for your children's college as well as your own retirement, you've got a daunting challenge ahead.

The most important thing you can do is start early. You should plan on saving at least one-third the cost of your child’s future college tuition. In the end, most families end up paying one-third out of their current income, another third in financial aid when their child enrolls and the other third through loans and grants.

The cost of a college education continues to rise faster than inflation, at roughly five percent per year. According to the Institute of Education Services, the average sticker price for four years is $32,790 and at a private college expect more than $150,000.

For starters, financial planning studies estimate that parents saving for college should save about 6% of their income annually to have a decent amount accumulated by the time their child is ready for school.

It's critical to start saving early for college, especially as tuition costs continue to accelerate. Set up a 529 college savings plan to take advantage of the tax-free withdrawals for education costs.

“Borrow only the amount of loan that you need. Federal Subsidized, Unsubsidized and PLUS Loans are offered at maximum levels in order for you to know your full eligibility,” says the Financial Aid Department at The University of Cincinnati.

It is unfortunate that they are unable to guarantee non-loan financial assistance to everyone they say.

“In fact, many students receive awards that include both free and repayable funds. Still others are eligible only for loan programs. In all cases, the Student Financial Aid Office strives to help students graduate with the smallest debt possible.”

Convey the importance of college to your child early even if you don't tell them about the financial aspects until later. Lay out the parameters for a decision, such as telling your child that you'll pay for the equivalent of four years at a state school but can afford no more.

These strategies can help you to avoid paying full price:

> Encourage your child to graduate a semester or two early. Taking as

many advanced placement courses as possible in high school or perhaps a community college class in the summer could give a student a full year's worth of college credit.

> Spend the first year or two at a local community college, an increasingly

popular option, before transferring to a four-year college. The average two-year

It’s important to realize that every family’s financial situation is different. Saving for your child’s education is not an exact science – talk to your local bank, financial advisor, or college financial aid office to figure out a plan that is right for your family. Don’t wait until the last minute though! Planning ahead is key.

program costs just $2,713 a year.

SEPTEMBER 2012 [ cincinnati parent] 15

Preparing Your Child

for COLLEGE

PREPARING YOUR CHILD

for

Tessa Judge

COLLEGE

College introduces a glamorous life of living without parents, scheduling late classes as to avoid waking up with the sun, and virtually getting to hang out with your friends all the time. However, before you and your child can both be ready for the college experience, a few important steps need to be taken. Being sure to take these steps early is key in avoiding stress about the college preparation process.

FRESHMAN YEAR Freshman year is an interesting time for students. Coming from being the big dogs in middle school, they are now the youngest (and usually smallest) in a bigger school. College seems a far way off. And while that’s partially true, freshman year is the time to begin preparation.

TIP: Sign up for AP classes and AP exams. Getting a 5, a 4, or sometimes a 3 on these exams can get your child credit for college classes. That saves your child some time and saves you some money.

A year-by-year guide on college preparations

here. With these upcoming exams in the back of your mind, there are different ways you can get your child prepared.

TIP: Spend time in the SAT section on collegeboard. com. The website also has the SAT Question of the Day, study tips, practice questions, and full practice tests.

TIP: Invest in a couple ACT and SAT practice books.

TIP: If desired, SAT and ACT prep tutors can be found all over the city. This may be a beneficial option for kids who find studying rather difficult.

JUNIOR YEAR Testing time! Junior year is the most important year when it comes to college admissions. Junior year grades are very important and testing needs to be taken seriously for getting admitted and for getting scholarship money.

SOPHOMORE YEAR

TIP: Stay up-to-date on exam dates. It’s not uncommon to retake exams if you or your child is not happy with the test results so be sure you know when upcoming exams are.

Now that your child has a year of high school out of the way, it’s time to begin some more serious preparation.

Junior year is on the horizon which implies a fun year of standardized test taking. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves

TIP: Have your child begin thinking about colleges.

There are plenty of sources online to look at and books to check out that contain school reviews and facts that you’ll want to know.

16 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

TIP: Consider starting school visits during second semester of Junior year.

SENIOR YEAR The most anticipated year of your child’s high school career has arrived! This is a time for your child to apply for schools that he or she is serious about. Be sure to get applications in before deadlines, keeping in mind which schools are high priority. Having your child keep in contact with the college advisor in his or her high school will help calm some nerves and get everything where it needs to be on time.

After applications are in, all you and your child can do is sit back and take a deep breath. The decisions are now out of your hands.

Understanding that all of high school is preparation for college, make sure that thought doesn’t become an obsession. High school is the time for your child to go to football and basketball games, go to prom, get a driver’s license, make mistakes, and have fun. You and your child have four years for exam and college preparation. While these things are important, don’t forget to let your child experience the fun side of high school too. After all, 5 years after graduation, exams and papers will have been forgotten, but late nights with friends and Homecoming games will remain as memories.

Ready for a career.

35 high school programs--from aviation to sports rehab, from dental assisting to pre-engineering-offer career certification leading to good jobs.

Set for college.

Students can earn college credit while they’re still in high school.

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This learned difference between

is my renewable day ohio resources

and nonrenewable

prepared book report and class presentation

3 recess “shipwreck”

activities basketball

Team building in The

pool

rode the bus

saNDbox to school with

jump rope friends taught recycleD

Rigorous pRepaRation.

Joyful environment.

classmates

about horseshows

Students who find SucceSS in any world.

and ponies

D i s c o v e r y D ay s November 7

(513) 979.0220 n www.CountryDay.net/go/rsvp 20120813LSCincyParent.indd 1

and n

14, 2012

facebook.com/CincinnatiCountryDaySchool

paper

for lower school

Cincinnati Country Day School, founded in 1926, is a co-educational, college preparatory school serving 18 month through grade 12 students.

SEPTEMBER 2012 [ cincinnati parent] 17 8/14/2012 9:10:16 AM

decisions, decisions Picking a school for your child

PUBLIC

PRI VATE Sarah McCosham

When you find out you’re expecting, you’re hit with a number of decisions: hospital or home birth? Epidural or natural labor? OB or midwife?

The decisions keep coming after Baby’s born: Breastfeeding or formula? Cloth diapers or disposable? Staying at home or day care?

Unfortunately, as your child grows, the decisions become arguably more difficult; and, around his forth or fifth birthday, you’ll be making a decision about something with the potential to shape his whole life: schooling.

With seemingly endless public, private, and religious options from which to choose, selecting a school can seem like a very daunting task! If you’ve been leaning toward private schools, this article should help answer some of the common questions surrounding this decision.

Public Options Before looking into private schooling, it’s important to know a few, basic details about public education. Public schools are the most popular school choice; they exist in every district and are paid for by local taxes.

18 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

Dawn Grady, Marketing and Community Relations Manager for Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS), says that public schools also offer a wide variety of educational methods, an array of after-school/technical programs, and a great diversity of students.

Grady adds that the greatest attribute of public schools is how much flexibility they grant parents and students. In Cincinnati alone, CPS operates more than 50 traditional elementary schools, magnet schools, and high schools that “cater to a wide variety of program interests and learning styles,” she explains. Plus, Grady explains that Cincinnati is a “district of choice,” meaning that parents can essentially choose which public school they want to send their children to.

Independent Schools Yet for parents wanting to send their kids to private schools, there are perhaps even more options than with public: independent, religious, international/ multilingual, Montessori, and Technical – just to name a few. For the sake of simplicity, we’ll take a broad look at some independent and religious options.

THE

he’s so excited about learning

SCHOOL

THE

SEVEN

HILLS SCHOOL

www.7hills.org But Seven Hills produces a singular outcome: an intellectually vibrant, future-ready learner, prepared to shape a rewarding life.

Hillsdale campus Cincinnati, Ohio 45227 Doherty campus Cincinnati, Ohio 45206 513.728.2400

Independent schools generally specialize in some sort of focus (i.e., the arts or music), or educational style (such as international, college preparatory, or Montessori). These schools operate independent of larger (state) guidelines, and have more direct control over decision-making. Furthermore, as Marybeth Schneider, Director of Kennedy Heights Montessori Center, explains, “this operative autonomy extends to the teachers, who have more input in curriculum design, and feel freer to use their individual style in the classroom.” As a result, Schneider believes that students ultimately benefit most from this model, since they receive more personalized attention from their teachers.

Similarly, of the most talked-about perks of private schools is class size.

These schools generally sport low student-to-teacher ratios, and therefore

The Religious Route For parents wanting a spiritual element to their child’s education, there are private schools that specialize in virtually every branch of religion. As with other types of independent schools, religious schools generally offer more personalized attention and lower class sizes.

In addition to providing a rigorous education, Cahill says that religious schools foster personal, spiritual growth: “Private schooling offers another choice to families who are looking for more than academic excellence -- they also want value-based education for the whole person.” Cahill adds that many religious schools, like St. Ursula, make community service and outreach a part of the curriculum.

large school environment,” she explains.

However, the decisions don’t stop once you’ve decided to send Junior to a religious school: do you want to send him to a co-ed or single-sex school?

Becky Schulte, Director of Communications and Marketing at St. Xavier, an all-boys Jesuit High School in Cincinnati, says that one of the biggest reasons parents send their kids to an all-boys school is that it removes many of the distractions of co-ed schools, allowing students to focus on education and personal growth. “At St. Xavier, young boys come in and transform into young men,” she observes.

However, all of these perks come at a cost – which, compared to public

Do Your Homework

schools, can seem a bit steep. In fact, tuition is the number one deterrent for

With so many options, picking a school for your child may seem like an impossible task! However, as long as you do your homework, you’ll be in good shape to make the to make the best decision for your family: go to open houses, set up meetings, and ask lots of questions. In the end, though, the best school is the one that suits your child’s personality and needs.

offer more individualized education for students. According to Janet Hill, Admissions Director at The Seven Hills School, class ratios are a huge benefit to private schools. “Instead of classes of 25 to 30, our class sizes average 15. Children from pre-K to 12 get a truly individualized education.

Teachers can work with them in a way that isn’t necessarily possible in a

parents wanting to send their kids to private schools, explains Jill Cahill, Vice President of Marketing at Cincinnati’s St. Ursula Academy. However, Cahill says that cost should not be an obstacle, saying that many private schools offer financial assistance, as well as substantial grants and scholarships.

20 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

education +childcare

[ school listings ]

resources

GUIDE

Child Care & Preschool

Chai Tots Early Childhood Center Academic excellence via unique blend of Montessori method and traditional Jewish education. Chai Tots teaches children the culture and traditions of Judaism, while developing their creativity skills and promoting independence. Flexible schedule. Before and Aftercare.

7587 Central Parke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040, (513)234-0600, www.chaitots.com, Grades: 6 weeks - 6 years, Enrollment: 40

The Compass School Ages 6 weeks-6 years plus after school & summer camp up to age 12. Offering outstanding Reggio-Inspired full and part-time Infant, Toddler, Two’s, and Preschool programs, as well as Kindergarten, After School, and Summer Camp for school-age children. Degreed teachers, extensive parent communication, and welcoming family environment. Setting the standard in early care and education. Call today for your personal tour. 9370 Waterstone Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Laura Carr, Phone: 513-683-8833, Email: CompassLC@yahoo. com, www.TheCompassSchool.com

Cornerstone Church Preschool A Step Up To Quality award winning preschool committed to nurturing the whole child socially, emotionally, cognitively, physically, and spiritually. CCP provides high quality early childhood education based on sound knowledge of child development and appropriate practices. Daily lessons include Bible concepts, language skills, emergent math, discovery opportunities, music, creative art and more! 7600 Princeton Glendale Road, Liberty Township, OH 45011. Contact: Denise Taylor, Director, Phone: (513) 874-7870. Email: preschool@cornerstonechurch.org. www.cornerstonechurch.org

The Gardner School of Blue Ash This award-winning, academically focused preschool has recently opened in the Blue Ash Community. You want the best for your child, and so do we. With our nationallyrecognized curriculum taught by our degreed teaching

faculty, we are committed to providing a nurturing environment for learning readiness where your child can prepare for academic achievement and lifelong success.

9920 Carver Road, Cincinnati, OH 45242, 513-985-9444, www.TheGardnerSchool.com, Ages 6 weeks - Pre-K

Kinder Garden School Together with interaction of child, staff & family, we develop the complete child. We provide formative encouragement and knowledge with hands-on staff taking a personal interest in family and holistic education decisions for the child. Devoted to growing a child’s wish to flourish and learn by cultivating curiosity and problem-solving proficiency. Enlightenment Is Our Mission. Blue Ash& West Chester locations. BA: 513-791-4300, WC: 513-874-3100, www.kindergardenschool.com, Grades: 6 weeks – K

Little Bud Preschool Enrollment: Enroll your child today for Fall. Our 3’s class is Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday. Our 4’s class is Mon/Wed/Friday or Tues./Thurs. Our PreK class is Mon.- Thursday or Mon/Wed./ Thurs.

Little Bud is a star rated program with highly qualified teachers and aides. Watch your child bloom in our spacious classrooms and wonderful facility. We believe that children need to explore, investigate, manipulate to learn their world. Choose from 2, 3, or 4 day AM sessions with affordable rates. Located in the Northgate area. 3301 Compton Road, Cincinnati, OH 45251, Contact: Teresa Sedam, 513-385-8404, Email: tsedam@christ-lcms.org, www.christ-lcms.org, Grades: Ages 3 - PreK

Montgomery Community Church Preschool MCCP is a quality, Christian based preschool where kids learn, grow and develop good social skills led by college degreed teachers. MCCP continues to be awarded the 3 star Step Up to Quality, the highest level of certification, for excellence in its program. Watch your child blossom in this nurturing environment. 11251 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Chris Conner, Phone: 513-469-5333, Email: cconner@mcc.us, www.mcc.us, Grades: Ages 3-Pre Kindergarden, Enrollment: 165

Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Nursery School Professionally qualified teachers provide active, expressive, child-centered learning experiences at this 3-star award-winning program. Choose 2, 3, 4, or 5 day AM or PM sessions. Excellent ratios, degreed teachers and spacious, sunny, classrooms await your preschooler.

Parent and child classes also available for babies and toddlers. 5950 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45213, (513)631-0170, www.prpc.org, Grades: 2 1/2 - 5 years, Parent/Child classes birth to 32 months, Enrollment: 65

Sharon Hill Preschool Star Rated program with step up to quality. We are open from 6:30-6:30. We offer full and part time rates, creditialed teachers, and creative curriculum. 11550 Chester Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45246, Contact: Chanel Hill, Director, Phone: 513-772-2666, Email: hillcl@mail.uc.edu, sharonhilldaycare.org, Grades: 6 wks - 13 years

The Willow Tree House Daycare & Preschool The Willow Tree House is centrally located just 5 minutes from downtown and Good Sam Hospital. We are also within walking distance of U.C, and University Hospital.

Our teachers goal is to have happy children and instill a life long love of learning. 2651 Highland Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45219. Contact: Jean Walker. Phone: 513-281-8733. Email: willowtreehouse@aol.com. thewillowtreehouse.com. Grades: Serving ages 6 wks–5 years in our Preschool Program.

Montessori Central Montessori Academy We invite you to call and schedule a tour to come see our new Natural Playground and Outdoor Learning Environment, as well as our redesigned Elementary classrooms! For parents of Toddlers and Preschoolers, be sure to ask about our new “Montessori My Way” flexible early childhood programs designed for today’s familyfriendly work schedules. 1904 Springdale Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231, Contact: Laura Saylor, Phone: 513-742-5800, Email: info@centralmontessoriacademy.com, www centralmontessoriacademy.com, Grades: Infancy-6th Grade, Enrollment: 110 SEPTEMBER 2012 [ cincinnati parent] 21

Children’s Meeting House Montessori School

Experienced, degreed teachers are committed to the success of each student. Self-motivation and an excitement about learning are encouraged. 7.5 acre campus! State Chartered. AMS affiliated. Extended care available. 8293 Duke Boulevard, Mason, OH, 45040, Contact: Pat Elder, Head of School, Phone Number: 513-3987773, Fax Number: 513-398-1031, www.montacademy.org, Ages/Grades:: 18 months through grade 8, Enrollment: 250.

An authentic Montessori school program resting on 6.5 acres. Extraordinary and rigorous hands-on learning inside and outside of the classrooms creating life long learners, critical thinkers and passionate leaders. 927 O’Bannonville Road, Loveland, OH 45140, Contact: Meg Thomas, Head of School, Phone: 513-683-4757, Email: thomas@cmhschool, www.cmhschool.com, Grades: Preschool through Sixth grade, Enrollment: 150

The New School Montessori Founded on Montessori principles in 1970, our wooded playgrounds, home-cooked meals and family-like setting in North Avondale’s Mitchell Mansion provide a stimulating and nurturing environment for learning. We value diversity and create a caring and supportive community. Our graduates excel academically, but more importantly are empowered as citizens of our global community. 3 Burton Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229, (513)281-7999, www.thenewschool.cc, 3 years through 6th Grade, Enrollment: 150

Country Hills Montessori Providing half day programs for 3 to K. Small, individualized classes with low student-teacher ratios, under the guidance of Montessori certified teachers, in an inter-generational enviornment. Multiple Locations in Eastgate, Oakley, Harrison and West Chester Ohio and in Ft. Thomas and Erlanger KY. Visit our website for all location addresses & phones. 4400 Glen Este Withamsville, Cincinnati, OH 45236, Contact: Susan Schreiber, Owner, Phone: 513-752-1066, chmschools.com, Email: sschreiberchm@yahoo.com, Grades: 3 - K

Montessori Academy of Cincinnati Celebrating 25 years of offering Montessori education in the Greater Cincinnati area. Providing a supportive learning environment, the school focuses on individualized education, through which students are offered opportunities for self-paced acceleration.

CCDS is an independent, co-educational school dedicated to educational excellence serving students 18 months through Grade 12. The School is nationally recognized for its innovative, integrated laptop computer program. Extended day and tuition assistance is available. 6905 Given Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45243, Phone: (513)979-0220, www.countryday.net, Grades: 18 months– 12th grade, Enrollment: 800

St. Ursula Villa Academic excellence in the Ursuline tradition for boys

Non-Public

development, family atmosphere, dedicated faculty,

Bethany School

size, individual attention, outstanding high school

Bethany School is an independent preparatory school where students experience an appreciation for many cultures. Laptop computers, on-line grading, a dynamic

2012-2013 registration toddler, preschool & pre-k programs music, science, spanish, art & yoga enrichment This is a preschool, not a daycare.

6408 thornberry court, suite 110, mason, oh

perfect pick for

preschool

(513)770-6776 |www.creativetotsmason.com 22 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

Cincinnati Country Day School

and girls in preschool through 8th grade. Whole-child

now enrolling!

fall’s

music program, rigorous curriculum, and a variety of extracurricular programs provide a truly extraordinary educational environment. 555 Albion Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45246, Phone: (513)771-7462, www.bethanyschool.org, Grades: Grades: K – 8th grade, Enrollment: 250

Montessori or Traditional preschool options, small class preparation. 3660 Vineyard Place, Cincinnati, OH 45226, (513)871-7218, www.stursulavilla.org, Preschool – 8th grade, Enrollment: 496

Summit Country Day School Founded in 1890, the area’s only independent, Catholic, co-ed, college-prep school servin students age 2 - Grade 12 is recognized as a leader in formalized Character Education, Credo. A diverse community of students benefit from a rich, classical and challenging curriculum within three contiguous divisions. Extensive athletic and visual arts programs campus-wide.2161 Grandin Road, (513)871-4700, www.summitcds.org, Age 2–Grade 12, Enrollment: 1100

SPECIAL NEEDS Springer School and Center For 40 years, Springer School and Center has empowered

TUTORING

Ohio Virtual Academy

Langsford Learning Acceleration Centers Langsford is a private educational organization dedicated to developing life-long, independent learners. Since 2001, we have been teaching reading, spelling, comprehension, and writing in an atmosphere of enthusiasm and encouragement. Our successful model identifies where the breakdown in the reading and writing process is occurring and then we apply targeted instruction using research-validated approaches. 9402 Towne Square Ave. Ste B, Cincinnati, OH 45242. Contact: Jeff Graham, Executive Director. Phone: 513-531-7400. www.WeTeachReading.com.

All ages.

Ohio Virtual Academy helps your K-10 children obtain an excellent public school education, tuition free! Under the guidance of licensed teachers, parents help their children learn at home using K12’s comprehensive curriculum and educational materials. Best performing eSchool in Ohio, Phone: (866)339-9072, www.ohva.org, Grades: Kindergarten - 10th grade, Enrollment: 3,300

VIRTUAL

want your listing included?

CONTACT Katie@ CincinnatiParent.com

students with learning disabilities to become strategic learners. Springer offers a day school for students ages 6 - 14 and outreach programs and learning disability resources for students, parents and teachers in the Greater Cincinnati area. The Springer Experience. Success Changes Everything. 2121 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: (513)871-6080, www.springer-ld.org, Grades: 1st - 8th grade, Enrollment: 200

Ohio Connections Academy Ohio Connections Academy (OCA) is an accredited, tuition-free online public school serving students in grades K–12 throughout Ohio. Discover an awardwinning, personalized education from the comfort and safety of home. Learn more and enroll now at www.

ConnectionsAcademy.com/OCA! Phone: 800-382-6010, www.ConnectionsAcademy.com/OCA

Your excellence is our priority.

Open House October 28, 2012 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

3036 Werk Road Cincinnati, OH 45211 513-661-2740 www.motherofmercy.org SEPTEMBER 2012 [ cincinnati parent] 23

commentary & parenting

[ dear teacher ]

Dear Teacher Busy classroom walls, electronic reading, assignment books and test-taking tips

Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts

Ways to Make Test Taking Easier

Q:

My children do well in school – even on most tests. Are there any

A:

The book, The Simple Way to an A, lists three steps that can make

tricks that they can use that will help them do even better? – Wondering

test taking easier. You might suggest that your children try them.

(1) Plan: find the questions with the highest point value and do them first.

(2) Prioritize: If children are unsure on an answer, they can use a number system to show level of confidence in an answer and go back and check the answer again. (3) Strategize: For example, when matching answers, read the longer column first as it will give more clues to the answer. Then look for the correct answer in the shorter column. To these steps, we would add the necessity of reading the directions more than once.

Can Classroom Walls Be too Busy for Students?

Q:

Our daughter’s fourth grade teacher scarcely has a free space on her walls. She has hung up all kinds of charts, pictures and examples of the children’s work. The doors and even the blinds have stuff on them.

Is so much on the walls visual overload? Does it affect students’ ability to concentrate? – Curious

A:

Teachers are usually encouraged to have bright colorful displays on their classroom walls. When a classroom takes on the appearance of a supermarket, some educators now believe that it can make it difficult for children to concentrate. They believe that when teachers are presenting a lesson, students need to pay close attention to the teacher rather than looking at all the things on the walls.

On the other hand, more educators think this is a ridiculous view and that students need to be stimulated. There is no solid research on this subject. Why don’t you ask your daughter if she finds all the things on the wall bother her concentration? If so, you might ask the teacher to evaluate how other students regard the classroom walls.

One area in which some research has been done is on papers (worksheets, handouts, and tests) that are crowded. Students will look at a math test with 10 problems and think that they can handle it. Seeing 50 problems on a page can completely overwhelm and discourage them – making them believe the task is impossible to accomplish. This is a situation of visual overload. Teachers should be aware that too small print size and little spacing between letters do slow down the students’ reading rate. This is especially true for those with dyslexia.

Is Text Messaging Considered Reading?

Q:

I am really puzzled about what counts as reading nowadays. My children feel that they are reading when they read text messages or comments on social-networking sites. Are they correct? And how can we get children to read more? – Electronic Reading

A:

Reading on electronic devices is reading. Your children are right about this. However, a survey by Scholastic and the Harrison Group points out one big downside to this view. They found that from age 6 to 17, the time children spend reading books for fun declines, while the time they spend going online for fun and using a cell phone to text or talk increases. Incidentally, most parents do not consider reading on social-networking sites reading.

24 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

The good news about technology is that the survey found it could be a positive motivator to get kids reading. Fifty-seven percent of the children in the survey said they were interested in reading an e-book, and a third of the children said they would read more books for fun if they had access to e-books on an electronic device.

This year the sale of e-books has dramatically increased – especially in the children/young adult category. So more and more younger readers are likely to be reading e-books.

While parents understandably have concerns about the amount of time their kids are spending on electronic or digital devices, e-books do offer a way to get more kids to read more. The survey also found that the more time struggling readers spend reading e-books for fun, the more proficient readers they become.

Should Children Use Assignment Books?

Q:

ADHD AND LEARNING ISSUES DON’T HAVE TO LIMIT THEIR POTENTIAL

You often mention that children should have assignment books.

The new school year often brings anxiety and frustration especially for kids struggling with learning issues. But success both in and out of the classroom is achievable.

The Brain Balance Program provides lasting results by addressing the root cause at the most fundamental level.

Maybe they work for some children. However, in my experience, children fail to use them regularly. Or, if they do, they invariably lose

them. Fortunately for our children, all the teachers in their school put all their

Stop in or call to find out how we can help your child succeed.

assignments on the school website. The children never have the excuse of not knowing what their assignments are, and parents always know if their children

CALL 513.257.0705 LEARN MORE brainbalancecincinnati.com VISIT 12084 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249

have homework. – Handling Assignments

A:

We'll admit that it is handy to have assignments put up on websites. It

is decidedly helpful for parents, children who are absent and those who may or may not have written the assignment down accurately.

But there is a big negative to not having to write down assignments: It doesn't prepare students for high school or college, where the responsibility for knowing what the assignments are is usually the responsibility of the students.

Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or ask them on the columnists’ website at www.dearteacher.com.

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[ pete gilbert...stay-at-home dad ]

commentary & parenting

Every Mother Has a Favorite True confessions of stay-at-home dad Pete Gilbert

If you have a daughter, I’m sure American Girl is a household name.

American Girl stores even have a portrait studio where girls can be photographed with their Dolls. Instead of a photo shoot, the Bitter Baby could head to a tattoo

My daughter received a set of boy/girl babies last year. These are smaller versions

parlor for a permanent reminder of the owner that will never really love them.

of American Girl dolls. The fancy pink boxes referred to them as "bitty twins." From the moment she opened the dolls, my daughter has only played with the little girl.

Happy Parenting!

Days later, she finally took the boy doll out of the packaging.

www.facebook.com/petetheblogger

The “boy,” never honored with an actual name, can be found abandoned, left for dead, face down in a pile of dirty laundry or stuffed underneath our daughter’s bed. We named him "Bitter" baby, inspired by the undressed doll, under a pile of legos, watching while his twin sister lives a more pampered existence.

Maybe the doll industry has missed an entire market share.

They could build an entire store devoted to “Bitter Babies.” Instead of a decadent, three-story, all-pink store, these Bitter Babies would be sold in a dark, damp basement or out of the back of a pickup truck.

The Bitter baby wouldn’t be welcome at the posh Doll Hospital that Bitty Twins enjoy, but he might be given a basic First Aid kid to treat the torn clothing and skinned knees acquired from a life under a pile of other toys.

Instead of tea and scones for girls and dolls at the American Girl Cafe or Bistro (reservations recommended), Bitter Baby might grab an early afternoon drink at the local watering hole or a sandwich from 7-Eleven.

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Learning Adventures & Experiences

Exciting field trip ideas for children!

Krista Bocko

Who doesn’t love a field trip? Exploring someplace new in and around Cincinnati, or familiar to your but new through the eyes of a child, is always an adventure.

While the perennial favorite Newport Aquarium and COSI Columbus are always on the list, check out some other ideas for outdoor learning and spots more off the beaten path, from a nature preserve and lake to a rainforest waterfall and botanical garden to a museum all about firefighters.

for everyone. Teachers can arrange for school presentations, as well. www.caesarcreekstatepark.com Winton Woods is another great way to experience wildlife and nature. The Winton Centre contains exhibits and displays on pond life, animals and the water cycle. Visit www.greatparks.org for a listing of all Visitors Centers, most of which have various educational themes and wildlife viewing.

TIP: Plan a ‘Family Field Trip Day’ and mark it on the calendar. Involve your child(ren) in the planning: decide where to go together, find it on the map, determine what time to leave, how long it takes to get there, plan lunch, and encourage your child to journal about your adventure afterward. If your child is old enough, giving them free reign to document the trip with a camera is a fun learning experience in itself.

One of the oldest zoos in the United States, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, is top notch for education and entertainment. ‘The world is your classroom at the zoo,’ and the Zoo also offers a ‘Zoo to You’ program for school presentations. Teachers can check out the ‘Teachers Guide to the Zooniverse’ for answers to questions and to learn how to make the most out of the Zoo trip for students. www.cincinnatizoo.org Get back to nature at Caesar Creek State Park. With a nature preserve, hiking trails, nature center, programs and an amazing lake, Caesar Creek has something 28 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

Combine art and fun into learning at the Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati.

School group matinees are offered to students and study guides are available to parents, school and home educators. The Children’s Theatre also offers ArtReach, a program designed to bring the theatre directly to schools and other venues. Visit www.thechildrenstheatre.com for more information.

SchoolTime is a program presented by the Aronoff Center for the Arts to entertain and educate students as well as tie in to school curriculum. Teachers and parents can visit the website at www.cincinnatiarts.org and click on ‘Your SchoolTime Visit’ to find tips on preparing students or children for a visit as well as shows and times.

Visit a rainforest waterfall in Cincinnati? Yes, you can, at Krohn Conservatory in Eden Park. See more than 3,500 plant species in tropical, rainforest and desert climates To learn about all the parks in Cincinnati, visit www.cincinnatiparks. com. You also might check out Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park at www. cincyplay.com for their student programming, teacher guides and family series.

Follow the route to freedom at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and learn how fugitive slaves were helped to freedom. School and group tours are available, with five age-appropriate tours available for school groups. www.freedomcenter.org Children will love to participate in a hands-on bucket brigade, work a hand pumper and slide down a real fire pole at the Fire Museum of Greater Cincinnati. They’ll also visit the Safe House to learn about preventing fires and fire safety tips. www.cincyfiremuseum.com Airplane lovers unite at the Air Force Museum at Wright Patterson Air Force Base.

Explore aviation history through the decades, from the Wright Brothers all the way to the present day. www.airforcemuseum.com

MORE Learning Adventure Ideas:

> find more

> Cincinnati Art Museum, www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org

> Newport Aquarium, www.newportaquarium.com

> Cincinnati Observatory, www.cincinnatiobservatory.org

> Cincinnati Museum Center, www.cincymuseum.org

> COSI Columbus, www.COSI.org

> Drake Planetarium, www.drakeplanetarium.org

ON THE WEB

at CincinnatiParent.com

Have an... · Trampoline arena parties (Erlanger) · Lazer Maze (Deerfield Township) · Arcades · Fresh-made pizzas · Named Best Laser Tag by Cincinnati Magazine · Spa themed parties!

(Both Locations)

Deerfield Township, OH (513) 339-1030 Erlanger, KY (859) 371-KRAZ Now in Columbus!

www.LazerKraze.com SEPTEMBER 2012 [ cincinnati parent] 29

Warm 98 invites you to join our team, Warm 98 Shades of Pink, at Susan G. Komen's Race for the Cure. We also invite your kids to join Kids for the Cure! Find all the details NOW at warm98.com!

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30 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

calendar

sat | 01

thurs | 06

Times: 11:00 AM Phone: 513-563-6663 Location: Gorman Heritage Farm, Evendale www.gormanfarm.org Come out to the farm with your bread dough and/ or pizza crust/toppings, and use our Earthen Oven to bake up your own masterpiece.

Times: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Phone: 812-537-4507 Location: Downtown Lawrenceburg www.thinklawrenceburg.com Outdoor concert series highlights talented performers and showcases variety of musical styles. Includes car show by Indiana Gassers.

Food and beverages available. Bring seating.

Community Bake Day

sun | 02 CHEETAH RUN

Times: 8:00 AM Price: Pre-registrations cost is $30: $35 for non-members Phone: 513.281.4700 Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Cincinnati cincinnatizoo.org Run Wild! Guests of all ages are invited to join the fun during the 3.1 mile run and walk through the beautiful Cincinnati Zoo. The course features the Zoo’s unique gardens and exotic animal exhibits, providing scenery unlike any other venue in town.

mon | 03 TERRIFIC TURTLES

Times: 2:00 PM Price: FREE Phone: (513) 521-7275 Location: Woodland Mound, Cincinnati www.greatparks.org Meet a live turtle and find out some fascinating facts about these shelled reptiles.

tues | 04 Reds VS Phillies

Times: 7:00 PM Phone: (513) 765-7000 Location: Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati www.reds.com Come cheer on the Reds as they take on the Philadelphia Phillies!

weds | 05 NATURE STORIES: APPLES

Times: 11:00 AM Price: Free Phone: (513) 521-7275 Location: Sharon Woods, Sharonville www.greatparks.org Fall is the season for the apple harvest. Parents and their little ones are invited to join the naturalist for a story all about this favorite fall food.

Music on the River

fri | 07

St. Susanna Family Festival

Through Sunday, September 09, 2012.

Price: FREE Admission Phone: 513-398-3821 Location: St. Susanna Church, Mason www.stsusanna.org Food, games, rides and daily door prizes.

Harvest Home Fair

Through Sunday, September 09, 2012.

Phone: 513-662-0524 Location: Harvest Home Park, Cheviot www.harvesthomefair.com Music, rides, 4-H exhibits, flower and horse shows, food and drinks.

sat | 08

ScopeOut Astronomy Fair

Times: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM Price: $6, $4 children Phone: 513-321-5186 Location: Cincinnati Observatory Center, Cincinnati www.cincinnatiobservatory.org Opportunity to look at latest and greatest astronomical equipment offered by local and national vendors.

Activities include classes, educational materials for teachers, children’s space crafts, telescope viewing, tours of historic buildings and door prizes.

sun | 09 Fusion Family’s Funday School Times: 3:00 PM Price: FREE, RSVP Online by Sept 5th Location: Weller Park, Montgomery www.fusionnati.org

No reading, no writing, just real hands-on Jewish holiday fun for everyone! Check out what’s coming up this quarter: Gummy Yummy New Year! Treat your taste buds to a delicious assortment of candy and other confections sure to get your New Year off to a really sweet start! Enjoy a fun family day together! Open to families with children 10 and under in which one parent is Jewish and the other is not, or in which one or both parents have converted to Judaism. Fusion Family is an initiative of The Mayerson Foundation.

Rhea Lana’s Fall Consignment Sale

Through Tuesday, September 11, 2012.

Phone: 513-502-5533 Location: Cincinnati Mills Mall, Cincinnati www.rhealana.com At Rhea Lana’s, we love CLOTHING AND CONNECTING FAMILIES! Our mission is to add value to the lives of families by providing the highest quality consignment experience possible.

mon | 10

Reds VS Pirates + Bark in the Park!

Times: 7:00 PM Phone: (513) 765-7000 Location: Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati www.reds.com Come cheer on the Reds as they take on the Pittsburg Pirates! Free pet item to the first 5,000 pet owners.

Ticket packages available for dogs and their owners with pet activities, samples and more in the Fan Zone.

tues | 11

For more ideas, visit www.cincinnatiparent. com!

weds | 12

Defending the Union Times: 7:00 PM Price: $3 Phone: 513-563-9484 Location: Heritage Village Museum, Sharonville www.heritagevillagecincinnati.org In a speech focused on citizen soldier Lew Wallace, historian and author Ray E. Boomhower follows one man’s rise and fall in the Civil War.

Ultimate Educators Expo @ the Cincinnati Zoo Times: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM Price: FREE Admission & Parking Phone: (513) 363-2000 Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Cincinnati cincinnatizoo.org Features: Informative Hands-On Classes!, Over 35 Environmental Exhibitors, Lots of Fabulous Door Prizes, Complimentary Food & Beverages, Special Animal Appearances!

09.12 thurs | 13 Girls Night Out

Times: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Phone: 859-344-6463 Location: Color Me Mine, Crestview Hills Half price paint time for the girls!

fri | 14

Day Out with Thomas

Through Sunday, September 16, 2012.

Phone: 513.933.8022 Location: 127 S. Mechanic Street, Lebanon, OH 45036 www.lebanonrr.com All aboard for a 25 minute train ride with a full size Thomas the Tank Engine!

Featuring storytelling, live music, build with Mega Bloks, and much more!

Culture Kids: Color Me Crazy

Times: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Price: $20 per pair general admission$10 per pair member; Phone: 513-721-2787 Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, Cincinnati cincinnatiartmuseum.org Come explore all kinds of color in our collection by learning about color relationships. Learn about color mixing and make your own masterpiece with a splash of color. Enjoy storytime, an art project, a docent led tour, and snack. Especially for ages 2-5

sat | 15

AMC Theater Super Saturday for Kids Times: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Price: FREE Phone: (859) 291-0550 Location: Newport on the Levee, Newport www.newportonthelevee.com AMC Theater presents Super Saturdays for Kids... come for a Finding Nemo 3D themed day! Lots of Movie themed activities including face painting and balloon making.

Preble County Pork Festival

Through Sunday, September 16, 2012.

Phone: 937-456-7273 Location: Preble County Fairgrounds, Eaton www.porkfestival.org/ Celebration of pork. Food, pig racing, music, parade, vendors and demonstrations. No pets or alcohol.

SEPTEMBER 2012 [ cincinnati parent] 31

sun | 16

Third Sunday Funday: Over the River

fri | 21 Cincinnati Comic Expo

Times: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Price: Free Phone: 513-241-0343 Location: Taft Museum of Art., Cincinnati www.taftmuseum.org/ Take a look at waterways in art, try out traditional Appalachian toys, go “fishing” in the garden, make a folk-art craft, and at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. sing along with “Fiddles and Flatboats” with storyteller-musicians Russ and Barb Childers .

Through Sunday, September 23, 2012.

Price: $65 VIP, $25 weekend, $15 oneday pass, free ages 12 and under Phone: 513-290-6583 Location: Duke Energy Convention Center, Cincinnati www.duke-energycenter.com Hall C. Comics, graphic novels, cards, toys, games, artists, writers and costume contest. Dealers to buy, sell and trade.

DOG DAYS

APPLE JAMBOREE

Times: 1:00 PM Phone: (513) 357-2604 Location: Armleder Park, Cincinnati, OH cincyparks.com While enjoying your day at the dog park, stop by the naturalist table next to the Taft Art For All display. Learn about the wild dogs of Ohio and how dogs have helped people through the years.

mon | 17

Sprouts Institute: Joy of Art

Price: Fee: $5 for members; $7 for nonmembers, plus Museum Admission Phone: (513) 287-7021 Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, Cincinnati www.cincymuseum.org/ Celebrate the joy of art while letting us clean up the mess! Join us for creative, hands-on activities while learning how to encourage and understand your child’s artistic point of view!

Designed for children 2 to 5 years old.

tues | 18 Brain Balance Parent Lecture

Times: 10:00 AM Price: $5 Phone: (513) 521-7275 Location: Woodland Mound, Cincinnati www.greatparks.org Register your three to five year old for this month’s jamboree. While doing a craft and hands on apples activities, your child will learn all about this delicious fruit.

Times: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM Price: FREE Admission Phone: 513-895-6800 Location: Bridgewater Falls Shopping Center, Fairfield Twp www.shopbridgewaterfalls.com Exhibits focus on personal, home and child safety with live demonstrations, simulations and handson displays. Held in conjunction with Fairfield Township Police and Fire Departments.

32 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

Times: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Price: FREE, RSVP online!

Phone: 513-703-3343 Location: Gymboree, Mason www.myshalomfamily.org Now Shalom Family has a great new way for parents and babies to get connected to one another and the Jewish community. Presenting private interactive playgroups that are FREE and feature the popular Miss Meliss. A program of Shalom Family, an initiative of The Mayerson Foundation. Open to families in the Jewish community with children two years and younger in which at least one parent is Jewish. Plus, two families will each win a $50 Target Gift Card at every event!

Times: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM Price: Adults $20; Children Free; $4 parking Phone: 513.621.4400 Location: Sawyer Point, Cincinnati www.bluegrassforbabies. com Benefits the Perinatal Institute of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Children of all ages are entertained by healthy activities— soccer, gymnastics, music and crafts—while parents learn about the importance of a healthy lifestyle at educational booths. Coincides with Cincinnati’s annual Oktoberfest weekend and a Cincinnati Reds home baseball game.

Great Outdoor Weekend Through Sunday, September 23, 2012.

Price: FREE Location: Cincinnati Parks www.cincygreatoutdoorweekend.org/ Would you believe that over one weekend you will have 125 outdoor recreation and nature activities to choose from around the greater Cincinnati region?? You will have several chances to hike and see birds of prey up close. Maybe you will learn how to grow your own food or shoot a bow and arrow! Every event is FREE!

weds | 26

Wee Wednesday: That’s Artrageous!

Times: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Price: FREE Phone: 513-721-2787 Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, Cincinnati cincinnatiartmuseum.org Explore the museum and enjoy four interactive storytelling stops with our specially trained docents. Perfect for ages 2-5

thurs | 27

Lawrenceburg Fall Fest

Through Saturday, September 29, 2012.

Price: FREE Phone: 812-539-3113 Location: Downtown Lawrenceburg Street festival featuring music, food, beer garden, rides, games, baby contest, king and queen, barbecue cook-off and chili contest.

fri | 28

Newport Oktoberfest

Through Sunday, September 30, 2012.

Phone: 513-477-3320 Location: Festival Park, Newport Munich Oktoberfest style of German food, beer and music.

Bluegrass for Babies

weds | 19

Safety Fair

Sensory Sunday: Stories, Songs & Fun for You and Your Little One

sat | 22

Times: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Price: FREE Phone: 513 257-0705 Location: Brain Balance, Cincinnati www.brainbalancecenters.com/cincinnati At the lecture you will learn about our exciting program and how it can help your child succeed academically, Oktoberfest-Zinzinnati USA socially and behaviorally. You will also have the Through Sunday, September 23, 2012. opportunity to ask all the questions you may have.

Phone: 513-579-3111 Seating is limited so call today to reserve your seat.

Location: Downtown Cincinnati www.oktoberfestzinzinnati.com/ On six blocks of Fifth Street from Race to Broadway.

German-style music, food and beer. Parking For more ideas, visit www.cincinnatiparent.com! available in Fountain Square Garage, $5.

thurs | 20

sun | 23

sat | 29

Country Applefest

Times: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Price: FREE Phone: (513)320-2775 Location: Downtown Lebanon The streets of downtown Lebanon will be filled with homemade crafts, great food, and entertainment.

Come check out the longest running craft festival in the City of Lebanon! Rain or Shine!

mon | 24

FALL WAGON TOURS Through Thursday, September 27, 2012.

Times: 7:00 PM Price: $5 Phone: (513) 521-7275 Location: Miami Whitewater Forest, Harrison GreatParks.org These tours are designed for older adults and others who may experience difficulty traversing rugged nature trails. From our tractor-drawn wagon, you can enjoy the view of woodlands, creeks, wetlands and prairies in all of their autumn splendor along the 7.8 mile outer loop of the Shaker Trace Trail.

tues | 25 Reds VS Brewers

Times: 7:00 PM Phone: (513) 765-7000 Location: Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati www.reds.com Come cheer on the Reds as they take on the Milwaukee Brewers!

sun | 30 Cupcake

Times: 1:00 PM Price: $25 Phone: 513.271.2793 Location: Cheers to Art, Madeira www.cheerstoart.com Fun for the whole family - ages 5+

ongoing events The Three Musketeers

www.oldwestfestival.com

Occurring Daily (except Mon) Beginning Saturday, September 01, 2012 Through Saturday, September 29, 2012 Phone: (513) 421-3888 Location: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

Relive days of Wild West in unique entertainment experience.

Re-enactments, trick shooting and roping, demonstrations, rides, food and music. Free parking. Rain or shine.

www.cincyplay.com It’s all for one and one for all in this rousing story of heroism, treachery and honor. Young Frenchman D’Artagnan and his plucky sister Sabine aspire to join the famed Musketeers. The stakes have never been higher for our favorite swashbucklers in this actionpacked update of one of the greatest adventure stories of all time.

Findlay Market Farmers Market Occurring Daily (except Mon.)

Times: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Phone: 513-831-7383 Location: Recreatons Outlet, Milford

www.recreationsoutlet.com Maybe it’s raining and they need to burn off some steam...

Or you want to beat the weather... Or they have just been “extra good” lately? Bring them into our temperature controlled showrooms for the best indoor play available. You will have fun watching them and they will sleep well tonight!

Price: FREE Phone: 513-665-4839 Location: Findlay Market. Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.findlaymarket.org

Local vegetables, fruit, meat, eggs, flowers, cheese and cottage goods.

Old West Festival Occurring Every Sat & Sun Beginning Saturday, September 08, 2012 Through Sunday, October 07, 2012.

Times: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Price: $12, $6 ages 6-12; free ages 5 and under Phone: 866-937-8337 Location: Old West Festival, Williamsburg

> find more ON THE WEB

at CincinnatiParent.com

FREE PLAY at Recreations Outlet Occurring Every Tue, Wed & Thu

Jack O’Lantern Junction Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, September 22, 2012 Through Wednesday, October 31, 2012.

Price: Best Value! Our Do-It-All! ticket Phone: 513-898-8000 Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, West Chester www.entertrainmentjunction.com

Halloween fun for the whole family! First walk-thru our trick or treat maze and see kid friendly ghosts, skeletons and more. Plus come and enjoy the area’s only indoor Pumpkin Patch. Also open this year are our two outdoor kid’s train rides themed for the Halloween season. And as always you can experience the world’s largest indoor train display or enjoy hours of fun in our kid’s play area.

09.12

Chuck Wagon Dinner Ride Occurring Each Saturday Through Saturday, September 15, 2012.

Times: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Price: Adult $30 Child 4-12 $17 3 & younger free Phone: 937-289-2500 Location: Bonnybrook Farm, Clarksville

www.BonnybrookFarms.com A Chuck Wagon Dinner Ride at Bonnybrook Farms offers a fun evening of great food and camaraderie for families, friends and groups of all sizes. Enjoy some ‘fun on the farm’ activities. Choose from fresh baked desserts, tin cup coffee and soft drinks, then gather ‘round the campfire. Kids of all ages can roast s’mores.

Fall Festival Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, September 22, 2012 Through Saturday, November 03, 2012.

Price: Free admission. Hayrides, barrel train rides, gift items and food available for purchase Phone: 859-905-9656 Location: Country Pumpkins, Dry Ridge www.countrypumpkinsky.com

Wide variety of pumpkins and gourds for sale. Free: corn maze, CincinnatiPortraitGallery.com petting zoo, corn box, straw bale maze, play area and picnic shelter.

513-253-6497 M - F 9am - 5pm

SEPTEMBER 2012 [ cincinnati parent] 33

marketplace MUSIC

ENRICHMENT

SERVICES

PARTY PLANNING

SERVICES

MusicTime Studio

(Mt. Washington/Anderson) FREE Introductory Session Break through Australian PIANO Method Children, Teens, Adults, Seniors Play Pop, Blues & Classical (From Your Very First Lessons)

(513) 652-6267 / www.musictimestudio.net

birthday party GUIDE 34 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

CONTACT US

EDUCATION

fun+wacky

sun

mon

tues

weds

thurs

09.12 fri

sat 1

on this day

Mary Had A Little Lamb was Published in 1830.

labor day

newspaper carrier day

how to celebrate: have a cookout with your family

9

grandparent's teddy bear day how to day celebrate:

patriot day

16

E

CAM GUA OL

checkers day

on this day

30

the safety pin was invented

share your 9/11 memories with your kids

17

18

MILKSHA ATE K L O

24

on this day

on this day 25

in 1964

26

johnny appleseed day how to celebrate: use apple halves to stamp paint apple prints.

Sources: familycrafts.about.com, brownielocks.com, holidayinsights.com, zanyholidays.com & thenibble.com

the Pledge of Allegiance is first recited in 1892

13

14

15

on this day make a hat day the first department store opened in 1848

how to celebrate: create a hat that your favorite character wears

20

21

22

on this day

miniature golf day

the first railroad station opened

talk like a pirate day

how to celebrate: make time to relax and start a new book

how to celebrate: do some extra chores or make your mom her favorite dinner

happy birthday scooby doo!

19

cheeseburger day

on this day Mary Poppins debuted the first toy store opened

read a book day lazy mom's day

12

on this day

in 1787, our Founding Fathers signed the U.S. Constitution

8

27

crush a can day

S&

MAKE UP

DAY

DAY 23

how to celebrate:

bring your teddy bear with you everywhere you go!

cheese pizza day

7

AY ED

11

how to celebrate: hand-make a special card or spend the day together

6

how to celebrate: order a cheese pizza for dinner or make your own

10

5

KIS

blueberry popsicle day

4

CHOC

3

2

how to celebrate: round up the family and head for a round of golf!

28

love note day how to celebrate: leave a post-it note for someone you love

29

goose day how to celebrate: head to your favorite park and feed the geese

SEPTEMBER 2012 [ cincinnati parent] 35

BACK TO SCHOOL WITH THE Y

Child Care

At the Y, kids are cultivating the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health and educational achievement.

Ask about our before and after school, preschool and toddler programs at your school or visit your nearest YMCA to get enrolled today!

YMCA OF GREATER CINCINNATI

MyY.ORG

513.362.YMCA