September 2013 | Cincinnati Parent Magazine

Cincinnati

PARENT CHILDHOOD

OBE SIT Y BIRTHDAY PARTY

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SEPTEMBER 2013

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contents features

09.13

commentary + parenting

ON THE COVER

Five “outside the box” ideas for your next celebration

18 | KIDS AND CASH

Meagan (15), Brandon (11), Kamryn (6)

14 | COPING WITH CHILDHOOD CANCER

20 | FOOTNOTES: THOUGHTS FROM THE MARGINS OF A MOM’S LIFE

12 | BIRTHDAY PARTY FUN

Helping the whole family deal with a diagnosis

16 | THE RIGHT PRIVATE SCHOOL FIT What factors play into this important decision?

26 | TWEEN TIMELINES What freedoms should be allowed when?

30 | AVOIDING CHILDHOOD OBESITY Starting healthy strategies now can mean lifelong fitness

Talking to children about work

Walking the line

21 | THE HOMESCHOOL HEARTBEAT

Decided to homeschool - now what?

23 | ASK THE TEACHER

Fall conferences, “enjoying” bad behavior, autism prep, maintaining initial motivation

28 | WHAT’S NEW AT SCHOOL

33 | TRUE CONFESSIONS OF A STAY-AT-HOME DAD Bedtime tokens

resources

08 | PUBLISHER'S NOTE

25 | education/childcare GUIDE

11 | ONLINE BUZZ

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A great academic year starts with a nutritious meal each morning

in every issue 10 | COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Photo by: Lisa Hezlep www.hezlepphotography.com

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38 | MARKETPLACE

calendars 34 | SEPTEMBER EVENTS 37 | ONGOING EVENTS 39 | FUN + WACKY

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in every issue

Cincinnati

PARENT

[ publisher’s note ]

PUBLISHER Mary Wynne Cox | publisher@cincinnatiparent.com SALES MANAGER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Katie Clark | katie@cincinnatiparent.com EDITOR Susan Bryant | susan@cincinnatiparent.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jennifer Baum | jennifer@cincinnatiparent.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Melissa Wittenbaum | melissa@cincinnatiparent.com BUSINESS MANAGER Roxanne Burns | roxanne@cincinnatiparent.com

New Seasons, New Changes

EVENTS COORDINATOR & PUBLIC RELATIONS Wendy Cox | wendy@cincinnatiparent.com

September is upon us and with it comes a time of transition – those last warm days finally give way to cooler ones as we ease into a new season. Maybe you are going through some transitions in your own family – for parents of “tweens” watching your son or daughter morph from child to teen can provide some bumpy parenting moments. In this issue, our article Tween Timelines can help moms and dads determine what freedoms to allow their growing kids and when. If you are considering a move to a private school for your child, figuring out which environment will provide the best match is key. The Right Private School Fit lets parents know what factors to weigh when making this important decision that will result in a smoother transition for their student.

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Wendy Schrepferman | s.wendy@cincinnatiparent.com

In this issue we also tackle two health concerns affecting families. For all of us parents, worrying that our child could have a serious health problem is our worst fear. How do families deal with such devastating news? Let our parents in Coping With Childhood Cancer tell you. On another note, we all know the scary health risks that affect overweight kids, but getting this problem under control can seem like an overwhelming task. In Avoiding Childhood Obesity we give some simple suggestions that can have a big impact for starting a better health regimen today.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mary Wynne Cox, Sarah McCosham, Katrina Anne Willis, Michelle Shirk, Jennifer Garcia, Pete Gilbert, Deb Krupowicz, Kelly Blewett, Dr. Julia Heath of The University of Cincinnati, Dawn Grady of Cincinnati Public Schools, Alicia Elam of the Southern Ohio Homeschool Organization

Finally, we’re excited to share two new columns with you! The Homeschool Heartbeat, written by local expert Alisha Elam, will take you through the ins and outs of everything homeschool – starting with the very basics of how to approach this educational choice for your family. Also, do you view the world differently now that you’re a parent? In Footnotes: Thoughts from the margins of a mom’s life, area mom Kelly Blewett shares her thoughts on the daily lessons, challenges and joys the job of parenting brings.

Thanks for picking up our September issue! We love to hear your feedback and incorporate your ideas into the magazine. Please drop us a line anytime and let us know your thoughts on how we can make Cincinnati Parent an even better resource for our community!

WEBSITE DESIGN & GRAPHICS ASSISTANT Maria Tancredi | maria@cincinnatiparent.com SUMMER INTERN Ellen Werner | ellen@cincinnatiparent.com

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 2013 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 and more visit www.cincinnatiparent.com.

Mary Wynne Cox Publisher

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in every issue

[ community spotlight ]

community S POT L IGH T

the cincinnati zoo & botanical garden is wild in september Fall is a great time to visit The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden. In addition to daily animal encounters, train and carousel rides, visits to the 4-D theater and a variety of award-winning family programs, the zoo is hosting three special events this month.

The Annual Cheetah 5K Run and Walk takes place on Sunday, September 1st at 8:00 am. The course through the zoo’s unique gardens and exotic animal exhibits provides an amazing backdrop for this event. After the race, children 12 and under are invited to participate in the free Cheetah “Cub” Fun Run. Act Wild for Apes on September 7th and 8th invites visitors to learn about bonobos, gibbons, gorillas and orangutans through family activities, crafts, discover stations and animal encounters.

Zoofari: A Night of Wild Luxury promises attendees an extravagant evening of delightful libations, food selections from over 60 area restaurants, wild animal encounters, a silent auction and more. This popular fundraiser promises to be a success.

For more information on these and other events visit www.cincinnatizoo.org.

bluegrass for babies On Saturday, September 21st, Bluegrass for Babies returns to Sawyer Point for its fifth annual benefit concert. The event will feature performances by some of the region’s top bluegrass bands, exciting family-friendly activities, a variety of vendors, local and organic concessions and more.

Bluegrass for Babies is focused on improving children’s health. This year, concertgoers can participate in six interactive experiences: Farmer’s Market, Healthy Home, Family Wellness, Art and Music, Movement and Special Needs.

Tickets for Bluegrass for Babies are $15 for adults and $20 the day of the event and can be purchased at www.bluegrassforbabies.com. Children are admitted free of charge. New this year, kids 12 and under eat free with the purchase of an adult meal from the Green B.E.A.N. Delivery concession stand until 6:00 pm.

smithsonian magazine’s museum day live!

Saturday September 28th marks the ninth annual Museum Day Live! Museums across the United States will join forces to support Smithsonian’s mission to offer FREE access for all patrons. Over 800 museums in all 50 states are participating this year. Visit www. smithsonian.com/museumdaylive to download a ticket. Locate a museum in Ohio or wherever your travels may take you on September 28th at www.

Smithsonian.com/museumday/venues.

homework help The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County provides free homework help to students in kindergarten through eighth grades. Homework Helpers are available to assist students with homework assignments and provide skill building for any subject area.

Homework Central at the Main Library is open seven days a week: M/T/W 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Th/F 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm Sat 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Sun 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm Homework help is also available at the following branches: Bond Hill, College Hill, Corryville, Deer Park, Groesbeck, Madisonville, North Central, Northside, Oakley, Pleasant Ridge, Price Hill, Reading, Walnut Hills, West End and Westwood.

M - Th 3:00 pm - 6:00 PM

it’s the 10th annual great outdoor weekend September 28th & 29th Come play outside with us at the 10th Annual Great Outdoor Weekend, presented by Green Umbrella! This free nature education and outdoor recreation sampler is the biggest of its kind in the nation, and showcases the Cincinnati area’s wonderful natural resources! All kinds of fun and free activities await you: fishing, paddling, zip lining, hiking, butterfly tagging, bird watching, nature crafts, campfires and more! With over 150 activities at 50 locations in 8 counties, it’s easy to find something in your backyard. The fun lasts all weekend, from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm September 28th and 29th. Most events are family friendly.

Questions? Contact 513-541-1538 or events@greenumbrella.org; or visit www.GreatOutdoorWeekend.org for the full program schedule.

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online buzz check OUT

SEPTEMBER’S

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“Did you tell everyone the baby name you picked when you made the final decision or did you keep it a secret until your baby was born? ” We told! We felt like it didn’t matter if everyone liked it or not, it was her name and we weren’t changing it for anyone. – Jill N. We don’t pick a name until we see the baby. We do not share our list with anyone. There’s always an opinion. – Jenny M. We didn’t tell anyone but we also didn’t decide beforehand. Also, we didn’t know if we were having a boy or girl with any of our four kids. I am one who needs to see the baby and spend time with him/her before knowing the right name. – Kathleen D. We told the world! – Sarah B.

for a chance to win:

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Our first was a boy, so it was known that he would be named after his Dad. Our second would not cooperate during our ultrasounds so we didn’t even know what we were naming until birth. She ended up being a girl, so we all found out together. – Jennifer Z.

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When the baby was born, but we had a list of names. – Lindsey S

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Birthday Party Fun

Michelle Shirk

Five “outside the box” ideas for your next celebration

Celebrating your kids’ milestones is one of the best parts of being a parent. While backyard birthday parties are awesome, sometimes it’s nice to allow someone else to do the hosting – and maybe some of the planning and cooking too! Below you’ll find a roundup of a few fabulous birthday party spots in the Cincinnati area.

Sweet celebration

If refreshments are a top priority, have your child’s party at a place where food is the focus. Cupcake Crazy (www.cupcakecrazyincincinnati.com) offers two-hour birthday parties for sweet lovers in a private room that accommodates up to 14 partygoers. Guests will receive a decorating demonstration and have the opportunity to decorate two cupcakes – one to eat at the party and one to take home. The package also includes themed decorations, a cupcake craft and two hostesses, which means parents need not do much other than relax and enjoy a cupcake.

Active affair

Would you rather see young party guests moving than sitting? Consider the Cincinnati Sports Club (www.cincinnatisportsclub.com) for your next celebration.

Potential party activities include swimming, tumbling, soccer, basketball and more.

After the kids have had plenty of active fun, the birthday boy or girl can open gifts and enjoy cake (which you bring) in the gym’s private celebration room. Looking for something a little more extreme? RockQuest Climbing Center (www.rockquest. com) offers all-inclusive party packages at its indoor rock climbing gym while Scallywag Tag (www.scallywagtag.com) hosts pirate-themed parties featuring laser tag at two Cincinnati area locations.

Firefighter festivities

Looking for something for the future firefighter in your life? Check out the Fire Museum of Greater Cincinnati (www.cincyfiremuseum.com), an interactive museum housed in the former Engine Company #45 Fire House. The Fire Museum opens its doors to children’s birthday parties on Saturday afternoons. Their birthday package includes museum admission and use of the onsite conference room for up to forty guests, making this venue a great pick for larger groups. You supply the refreshments and decorations, so head to www.orientaltrading.com for inexpensive plastic fire chief hats, a hydrant cupcake holder and other themed party supplies.

Park party

The Cincinnati Parks Department (www.cincinnatiparks.com) celebrates birthdays at several area nature centers. Partygoers can enjoy 90-minutes worth of Naturalistled nature activities tailored to the chosen theme and guests’ ages. A “Creepy 12 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

Crawly” party for five to seven year-old participants might include an insect hunt with nets, “Spider Relay Race” and live animal presentation. A “Winged Wonders” party for eight to twelve year-olds could feature an outdoor scavenger hunt, face painting and a presentation entitled “How do birds and others fly.” If you want a less structured event or need to accommodate a big crowd, look into renting a picnic shelter and handling the party entertainment yourself. You’ll find a list of available facilities and prices at www.cincinnatiparks.com/picnic-shelters-areas.

Choose-your-own adventure

If you like the idea of outsourcing some party-planning responsibilities but still want options, consider having your event at the Cincinnati Museum Center (www. cincymuseum.org). The museum’s all-inclusive party packages include use of the party room, decorations, a themed cake, an educational presenter to lead activities and admission for up to 25 guests to Duke Energy Children’s Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science or the Cincinnati History Museum. The birthday boy or girl can choose from themes like “Construction Party,” “Tea Party,” “Dinosaur” or “Space.” With ten themes to choose from, there’s sure to be something for everyone!

Didn’t find your perfect party on our list? There are also skating parties, zoo parties, putt-putt parties, bowling parties . . . the possibilities are endless! At the end of the day, as long as you’ve got some good friends, family and a delicious birthday treat or two, your child’s celebration is practically guaranteed to be a success.

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Coping with CHILDHOOD CANCER Helping the whole family deal with a diagnosis

E

veryone thinks cancer is something that happens to other kids, other families – but this disease can happen to any child. According to the National Cancer Institute, in the United States, roughly 10,400 children under age 15 are diagnosed with cancer annually. When a family learns the devastating news that their child has this disease, how can they learn to cope?

One family’s story Cincinnati father Kevin Wright says his daughter Charleigh was diagnosed at six weeks with pleuropulmonary blastoma, a rare type of childhood lung tumor that begins in the chest.

“They say that a mother’s intuition is usually right,” says Wright, “My wife, Mara, felt from the day we brought Charleigh home that something wasn’t right.” When Charleigh stopped taking food, Kevin and Mara went to the ER at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, where an x-ray revealed that Charleigh had a large cyst on the lower lobe of her right lung.

“We were informed that this would require emergency surgery, which Charleigh was rushed into within an hour of the diagnosis,” says Wright. The tumor was removed, but two weeks later, they received a voicemail from the surgeon asking them to call the hospital.

“Again my wife knew something was wrong,” says Kevin. “The surgeon told us that after two weeks of pathology tests, it was indeed a cancerous tumor that was removed. We were told to be at the hospital the following morning at 8 a.m.”

Over the next 14 months, Charleigh received several surgeries and treatments for the cancer.

Today, she is a vibrant seven-year-old. “Charleigh has been in remission almost six years,” says Wright. “She is a normal, healthy girl that loves to do all the things normal second graders do. We are so blessed.”

Support systems With children, cancer is aggressively treated, often leaving little time for parents to process what’s happening. Because of this, Wright says that family support was key. “We couldn’t have made it through the ordeal without them.”

Angela Roddenberry, a Staff Psychologist in the Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, says that all families handle a diagnosis differently, but it’s important to recognize what your family needs.

“For some families, having a child with cancer will bring them closer together and for others, it may lead to increased tension and discord. For the latter, it’s important to seek help right 14 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

Sarah McCosham

away. By utilizing available support resources, some of the outside stressors can become more manageable, or avoided all together.”

Local resources Here in Cincinnati, we are fortunate to have access to the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC), one of the top-rated children’s hospitals in the country. Within CCHMC, the Patient and Family Wellness Center is a great resource for families.

In addition, Roddenberry recommends Cancer Family Care, an organization staffed by licensed professional counselors and social workers. “Other organizations your social worker can connect you with include The Dragonfly Foundation and the local Make-a Wish Foundation,” she says.

One resource Wright and his family counted on was Caring Bridge, which helps families create a website chronicling their experience. “It allowed us to communicate on a larger scale to our friends and family across the country. In addition, it provided a great forum for family and friends to show support.”

One day at a time A cancer diagnosis – especially for a child – can be devastating.

“Take it one day at a time,” says Wright. “My wife created a calendar that laid out all of the appointments, treatments and medicines by the day – and we shared the responsibilities as much as possible. We were partners on Charleigh’s road to recovery – and I believe that our family is stronger because of it.”

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the Right Sarah McCosham

Private School Fit What factors play into this important decision?

Y

ou’ve taken campus tours, met with admissions officers, inquired about financial aid and completed several applications – and your son or daughter has been admitted to their top school choice!

No – we’re not talking about college – the above applies to the process of selecting a private school for your child.

Finding the right private school is a decision that will affect the entire family – but don’t be intimidated by the process! Here we provide a primer for parents on where to start, the right questions to ask and tips for selecting the private school that will provide the best fit for your family.

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Where to start Choosing a private school is a lot like choosing a college: it’s an important decision that requires extensive research, visits and consideration. Jill Cahill, Admission Officer at Cincinnati’s St. Ursula School, says there are several things parents should do when starting their private school search.

“Before even looking at schools, parents should make a list of what is most important [to them] in an educational experience,” she says. “Then look for schools that meet your goals. It’s important to enroll a child in an environment where he/she can thrive, whether that is a smaller or larger school.” Cahill says starting with a school’s mission statement is a good way to learn about a school’s philosophy and goals for its students.

After you’ve set your sights on a list of schools, set up appointments for tours and campus events. “You can learn a lot from school publications and websites, but the only true ‘good fit’ measure is to make an official school visit,” says Cincinnati Country Day School Director of Admission Aaron Kellenberger. He explains that most private schools have entire days set aside for prospective students to tour, go to classes and talk to other students.

Finally, Cahill adds, “it may take several visits to a school to get a good feel for the culture and the community” – so don’t be shy about scheduling multiple visits at your top choices!

Questions to ask There are several questions you should ask (of the school and of your child) when considering a private school, such as:

What are the school’s student-to-teacher ratios? Most private schools boast low student-to-teacher ratios, which translates into more personalized attention for your child. Find out the classroom size you can expect.

Are there programs to help new students transition to the school?

Kellenberger says private schools often have “buddy programs” to help new students acclimate. Such programs are also beneficial for parents to meet one another.

What are your child’s goals? If your child has a dream of getting into a particular college, ask if any students from the school attended that college and how the school helped them get there. If your child has a particular area of academic interest, talk to the teachers involved in that program for specific information on classes.

What is the expectation for parental involvement? This can range greatly among private schools – know ahead of time what expectations the school has of you as a parent.

What type of financial aid is available? Almost every private school offers some sort of financial aid/scholarship package, and state and national scholarships may be available as well.

Making an educated decision One you’ve determined what you are looking for, toured schools and talked to other families, it’s time to make a decision. Here’s where your child’s input is crucial, as only he or she knows what feels right. “Not every school is right for every student – parents need to look for the right fit or for a place your child can grow and thrive,” says Cahill.

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commentary and parenting

[ kids and cash ]

Kids and Cash Talking to children about work Dr. Julia Health, Director, Economics Center and Professor, Alpaugh Family Chair of Economics, University of Cincinnati

Happy Labor Day! What will your family do this Labor Day? Widely regarded as the unofficial end of summer, families often try to cram as much left-over summer fun as possible into the first Monday in September with picnics, parties or just relaxing with a day off from work or school. But this day is also an opportunity to talk to your children about work -- the why, the how and the who.

Americans have been celebrating Labor Day since 1882, but many often forget that unlike our other national holidays, this one does not celebrate a particular individual or commemorate a significant battle or war. Labor Day is meant to celebrate workers and their contributions to our nation’s strength. This is a perfect time to add conversations about working into your family discussions.

The Why Younger children may not fully understand the connection between your work and their lifestyle. The obvious conversation here is about how your work enables you to earn a paycheck, providing housing, food, clothes, etc.

But it is also important that you let them know the sense of pride you feel from working. Regardless of the type of job you do (including work in the home), a sense of accomplishment can be found in any task – from a well-written law brief to a perfectly polished floor. Children need to understand, from you, that working does pay the bills, but also gives you a sense of satisfaction for a job well-done.

The How Talk to your children about your job and the education your job requires.

Draw a very clear line between education and work. Education is the best investment your children can make in themselves. Be encouraging, but realistic. For example, only one out of every 16,000 high school athletes ever plays a professional game of any kind. So be supportive of your child’s dreams, but also encourage a backup plan that includes education.

feel proud about it. Talk to them about their dreams and what it will take to get there. It’s okay if they say they want to be a spy – play along and say they’ll have to be good at being quiet and know a lot of different languages.

It’s not important what they come up with, what’s important is that they understand that these jobs don’t just fall out of the sky. They’ll need to acquire some skills in order to do them.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics has a great website (www.bls.gov/k12/) that asks kids what they like and suggests possible careers that match, including the education requirements to achieve that career, median salaries, working conditions, etc. Any children’s book where a character has a job is also an opportunity to talk about acquiring human capital and the connection between human capital and jobs.

The Who Your children already have human capital – skills and talents that will develop into marketable traits one day. Talk to them about their skills: Are they good at math? At following directions? Being careful with their work?

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Use this Labor Day as an opportunity to start drawing connections between your work and their lives and the importance of education in achieving their dreams. The most important point on this holiday is that they understand that achieving dreams requires a lot of, well…work.

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commentary and parenting

[ footnotes: thoughts from the margins of a mom’s life ]

Footnotes: Thoughts from the margins of a mom’s life Walking the line Kelly Blewett

It began as a joke. My toddler’s eyes would light up as he cried, “Bad Caroline!”

Caroline is his sister, and she is hardly bad at all. She’s only six months old. “No,” I’d correct. “Good Caroline!” We repeated the exchange on long summer days, like our little conversations about the YMCA and when he’d next visit his grandparents. Then I started to think about it. Was it really such a good idea to have my son bad mouthing my daughter?

“William, you’re not going to call your sister bad anymore,” I announced. “Seriously.

From now on, she’s good Caroline.” My father once convinced William to change a toy’s name from Mad Duck to Happy Duck simply on the power of his suggestion, so I had some precedent for the approach. And I followed through: I refused to smile when William said bad Caroline. I implemented a few time-outs and one-sided discussions about how little siblings are a blessing. I thought I had painted a nice, bright white boundary. And then I heard it.

“Bosh Caroline!”

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Bosh Caroline? What on earth? My son looked at me with a sparkle in his eyes, and continued. “Bats Caroline! Baths Caroline! Bees Caroline!” Hmmm. He was not technically crossing the “Bad Caroline” line, but he was certainly coming close.

What now?

“I’m not punishing for Bosh Caroline,” I said to my husband that night. “I drew a line and I’m not going to worry if he toes it.” Punishing for the variations is just too complicated – and besides, I know he’s only looking for a joke, which is harmless as long as he walks the line. And then a friend suggested a brilliant solution: introduce the phrase “Silly Caroline!” William may yet have a funny phrase for his sister – and one that makes a whole lot more sense than his current favorites.

In the meantime I heard from the little girl herself this morning. She was babbling in her crib. “Buh! Buh! Buh!” she exclaimed. What on earth? Will her first word really be “bad”? No, it can’t be. I’ve been banking on a sweet word like “Mama” or at least a neutral word like “apple.” A smile tugs at my lips even as I catch a glimpse of the road ahead – the line painted down the middle as far as the eye can see. And me: the loving mother and the devoted traffic cop.

[ the homeschool heartbeat ]

commentary and parenting

The Homeschool Heartbeat Decided to homeschool - now what?

Alicia Elam, President, Southern Ohio Homeschool Organization

Homeschooling seems like a scary and overwhelming task, right? You’ve decided to homeschool, but you don’t know anyone nearby who homeschools and your friends and family think you are crazy. Do you listen to them or move forward with your plans? Remember, you know your children best, and it is your choice on how best to educate them. If you’ve made the decision to homeschool, now what?

Home district You are required by the state of Ohio to notify your home district superintendent of your intent to homeschool. If this is your first year, all you need to send in is a simple letter of intent, found here http://tinyurl.com/ SampleLetterOfIntent or you can request a form from your district.

Find support Relax Making the difficult choice to homeschool isn’t something to take lightly. Take a moment to relax and let your decision settle in. There is plenty of time to make additional decisions in the upcoming weeks.

The journey you are about to embark on is a fun and exciting one. However, it can also be scary, especially if you lack the support of your friends or family.

Many fear the unknown. While homeschooling isn’t new, many people never heard of it growing up. Finding a local support group of homeschoolers is important – not only for your child to find friends with a similar educational style, but for you to network for ideas and support.

Curriculum choices When it comes to homeschooling, there are so many free resources available, libraries to visit, co-ops to attend, complete curricula to purchase and great groups to join. The education your children receive depends on whatever you put into it. Time and energy are the biggest considerations. Although it is not free to homeschool, it doesn’t have to break the bank, either.

Don’t let the fear of others undermine what you feel is best. You will probably be asked the dreaded socialization question: “But how will your children be socialized if you keep them home?” You can respond by saying that being socialized is the ability to converse with children and adults of all ages. The first year of homeschooling is always the most difficult. Finding a routine and teaching method that works for you takes time – so be patient!

Schedule Unlike the schedules of brick and mortar schools that must be planned around, with homeschooling you can take vacations, go to parks and museums and attend more learning events while other schools are in session.

Your daily schedule fits you, too. Maybe you work outside the home and need to school your children at night. Perhaps you want to take Fridays off for field trips and fun. So long as you are educating your children and completing assignments, you can schedule your year however you want.

For more information on the Southern Ohio Homeschool Organization, visit www.soho-letsgetsocial.yolasite.com.

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commentary and parenting

[ ask the teacher ]

Ask the Teacher Fall conferences, “enjoying” bad behavior, autism prep, maintaining initial motivation Deb Krupowicz

Q:

Q:

A:

A:

I always go into fall conferences with a few questions for the teacher, but as I try to focus and process the teacher’s introductory comments, I forget everything I intended to discuss. What can I do to make the most of this time?

Doing a bit of prep work by reflecting on your child’s work will help lay the foundation for a good conference. Although saving every paper forever is unnecessary, it is helpful to hold assignments for a grading period. Have several papers from each subject area to develop a good understanding of what your child is struggling with or what he is accomplishing. Without a good sampling, it is easy for the one poor assignment to stand out in your mind when twenty were done well (or vice versa). And you may discover that what appeared to be a tough concept for your child was mastered in the following assignment. Taking the time to look through the papers a few days before a conference will give you a more complete picture and will likely yield some great topics for conference discussion.

Whether your concern is concept mastery or work habits, having a few tangible examples to show the teacher will help him or her to understand your question and to provide more meaningful feedback.

One student in my child’s classroom seems to have consistently poor behavior. My son takes great delight in sharing the details every time we talk about school.

He is obsessed with this topic and seems very judgmental. What can I do?

Teaching children how to balance sharing their experiences at school and sharing their perceptions of someone else’s school experience is so tricky. As parents, we want to know everything!

But when sharing information about school changes to focusing on someone else’s struggle, we have to be very careful.

First, offer suggestions as to how your child might help his classmate by modeling good behavior, showing consideration for the other student and ignoring the poor behavior. Then, ban the topic! Ask your child to consider how he would feel if that child were telling his parents about a time that he misbehaved. Discuss how hurtful gossip is and how distorted stories become when they are passed along. Help your child understand that his own behavior is his (and your) only concern.

Explain to your child that he should always tell the adult in charge if someone is hurting someone else or is in danger of being hurt. Short of that, the name of the child who is misbehaving should never come up.

For the best response, consider sending in your question ahead of time. That way, the teacher will have time to gather the information you are seeking and will not be caught off-guard, ensuring you receive a well-reasoned response.

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[ cincinnati parent] 23

Q:

My daughter is on the autism spectrum and requires a great deal of teacher attention due to her difficult behavior. The beginning of the year is so stressful for us. While my daughter tries to adjust to a new routine, I brace myself for the calls and notes that I know will come. I am already feeling pretty defensive by the time the first one arrives. How can I avoid this?

A:

Initiate a face-to-face meeting with your child’s teacher as soon as possible. One of the keys to a good school year is forming a partnership with the teacher. For the partnership to be effective, it should be based on the strengths of both parties: your experience with your child and the teacher’s experience with other children. Everyone has the same goal: to have a good school year.

Rather than hide past troubles, share them with the teacher and discuss what worked and what did not work in trying to overcome them. Together determine what will be communicated when and how the information will be shared. Proactively develop a behavior accountability plan that is consistent at home and at school. Discuss rewards and consequences that can be implemented in both places.

Before you leave, set up a follow-up phone conference or meeting. Respect the teacher’s time by keeping your calls and meetings focused and brief.

Regularly express your appreciation for this time and attention as this is one of the key aspects to building this important partnership.

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Q:

My fifth grader starts each school year fired up and committed to giving his best, but after the first month of school he begins to slack off. How do I help him maintain his enthusiasm?

A:

Interest and excitement are typically greatest at the start of anything; we all have to work to maintain that fire as time goes on. Beginning to develop strategies to stay engaged is a skillset that will be used for a life time!

Invite your son to make a written list of long term and short term academic goals. The long term goals can be specific (I want to go to this college to become this) or more general (I want to get a scholarship for college). The short term goals may be quarterly honor roll or improved skills in a certain subject. Help him to develop a list of behaviors that will lead to his goal.

Mark on the calendar a few check points when the two of you will discuss his progress. This reminder of purpose will help foster the commitment that you want him to display.

Ask the Teacher is written by Deb Krupowicz, a mother of four and current teacher. Deb holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and has over twenty years of experience teaching preschool, elementary and middle school students. Please send your questions to her at asktheteacher@ cincinnatiparent.com.

[ school listings ]

resources

education + childcare GUIDE Child Care & Preschool

Montessori

The Campus at Kids First

Central Montessori Academy

Brand new and beautiful, The Campus (at the worldfamous Kids First Sports Center) gives your child an academic edge AND daily physical education. Our carefully selected and loving degreed teachers utilize a relevance-based curriculum combined with childdirected play and rigorous physical activity to make learning FUN and start each child on their journey to becoming a life-long learner. Call today to schedule your enrollment tour and ask about our grand opening specials! 7900 E Kemper Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Joanie Metzger Weghorst, Phone: (513) 629-KIDS, Email: info@theCampusKF.com, www.theCampusKF.com, Grades: 6 weeks thru Pre-K

Chai Tots Early Childhood Center

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

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

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

Weekday Ministries - The Landing & Mason Christian Preschool

Weekday Ministries includes Mason Christian Preschool and The Landing. We have age graded classes from 2’s through 6th grade; excellent staff; and Christian programming. A ministry of Christ’s Church at Mason 5165 Western Row Rd., Mason, OH 45040, Contact: Wendy Rote, Phone: 229-5403, Fax: (513)229-5410, Email: wendy.rote@ ccmason.org, www.ccmason.org, Grades: Mason Christian Preschool 2’s through pre-K; The Landing school age program Kindergarten through 6th grade

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: Cheri Hauer, Admissions and Office Manager, Phone: 513-742-5800, Fax: 513-742-5870, Email: info@centralmontessoriacademy.com, www. centralmontessoriacademy.com, Grades: Infancy through Sixth Grade, Enrollment: 110

Children’s Meeting House Montessori School 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

Cornerstone Montessori School

Cornerstone Montessori School is a private school that serves children between the ages of 3 and 14 in the Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati community. We have provided a solid academic, social and collaborative foundation for students since our founding in 1992. Our small, family oriented school offers quality, individual learning programs and low student/teacher ratios. We are conveniently located off I-471 near dowtown Cincinnati and I-275. We are enrolling now, so please call for a private tour 859-491-9960. 2048 Alexandria Pike, Highland Heights, KY 41076, Contact: Anna Wessling, Phone: 859-491-9960, Email: office@cornerstonemontessori.us, www. cornerstonemontessori.us, Grades: Preschool - 8th grade

Country Hills Montessori

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

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: 513-398-7773, Fax Number: 513-398-1031, www.montacademy.org, Ages/ Grades: 18 months through grade 8, Enrollment: 250

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.

(Accredited by AMS and ISACS). Open House dates: Oct 20, Jan 26, Apr 27 from 2-4PM. 3 Burton Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229, Contact: Jeff Groh, Email: jeff.groh@ thenewschool.cc, Phone: (513)281-7999, www. thenewschoolmontessori.com, 3 years through 6th Grade, Enrollment: 150

SPECIAL NEEDS Applied Behavioral Services ABS is an educational placement program specializing in serving children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder as well as other cognitive and developmental delays. 2517 Burnet Avenue, Ste 100, Cincinnati, OH 45218, Contact: Lori Watson, Phone: 513-861-0300, Fax: 513-8610121, Email: abaservices@insightbb.com, www. appliedbehaviorservices.com

Springer School and Center For more than 40 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 Changes Everything. 2121 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: (513)871-6080, www.springer-ld.org, Grades: 1st - 8th grade, Enrollment: 200

TUTORING

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, Grades: All ages

want your listing included?

CONTACT Jennifer@CincinnatiParent.com S E P T E M B E R 2013

[ cincinnati parent] 25

[TWEEN [ TIMELINES What freedoms should be allowed when?

Katrina Anne Willis

W

hen the tween years approach, an entirely different parenting dynamic emerges. Kids are pushing for independence while moms and dads struggle with how much freedom to allow. It can be tough to determine when to say “yes” and when to pull back on the reins.

Stephanie Lowe Sagebiel, MSW, LCSW, is a social work practitioner who has been in the field for over twenty years. She currently works with children, teens and adults and has this to say about tween guidelines: “There are three factors to consider as your child navigates her tween/teen years: brain development, personality type and motivation.” She goes on to explain that a child’s brain is not fully developed until she is in her 20’s.

Therefore, it’s critical for parents to act as the child’s prefrontal cortex – the part of the brain that can accurately assess the consequences of his or her actions. It’s also important to assess whether or not a child has the maturity to deal with her decisions.

(For example, will she take care of newly pierced earrings? Will she follow pre-established phone usage rules?) And parents need to talk with their children to determine the motivation behind their requests. Are they making a decision for external validation, or have they truly thought their actions through? Being open and honest about why a child wants a certain freedom helps parents determine whether or not their child is developing a maturity level that is equivalent to the privileges she is seeking.

Cincinnati mom of four, Melissa Wittenbaum, agrees. She has found that taking each request on a case-by-case basis works best for her family. “My daughter, Sarah, did get her ears pierced this year (at age 12). She was ready for the responsibility and has proven that she takes good care of herself. My 12-year-old twins

26 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

also currently share a phone. Although the sharing part does cause some arguments from time to time, they’ve both learned how to text appropriately, how to ensure the phone is charged and working when they need it, and that it’s the first privilege my husband and I will revoke if necessary.”

“Sometimes it’s a give-and-take,” Melissa says. “We reluctantly allowed our kids to use Instagram, and so far, it’s been okay. We check their posts diligently, though. If we find anything inappropriate, we’ll close their accounts. We’ve been pleased that our kids have made good decisions so far.”

When determining how much is too much for tweens to handle, Stephanie says, “Giving tweens too much freedom too soon is akin to flying a plane without preparation, knowledge or understanding of the aircraft. It’s a recipe for disaster.” Freedom, she explains, should be earned, and it’s a parent’s job to help a child along the journey of self-discovery. Simply giving a child make up without instruction, a phone without boundaries, or a credit card without limits does not set a child up for success. Instead, increasing freedoms slowly and intentionally can help both the parents and child prepare for more significant milestones down the road.

Successfully ushering kids into the next level of their development can be a challenge. Especially with the tween years, a combination of patience, open dialogue, thoughtful consideration, love and support will help make this transition as smooth as possible.

“

Melissa admits that as a child herself, she may have had too much freedom. “I tried – and got away with – a great deal as a tween,” she remembers. As a result Melissa finds that she is a little more strict with her own children. Given the opportunity, Melissa believes even good kids and can make poor decisions.

“

a child’s brain is not fully developed until she is in her 20’s. Therefore, it’s critical for parents to act as the child’s prefrontal cortex – the part of the brain that can accurately assess the consequences of his or her actions.

“Balance is definitely the key,” Stephanie agrees. “When approaching a new freedom or adventure, it’s crucial for parents to clearly outline expectations, rewards and consequences.”

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[ cincinnati parent] 27

commentary and parenting

[ what’s new at school ]

What’s New at School A great academic year starts with a nutritious meal each morning Dawn Grady, Manager, Marketing and Community Relations, Cincinnati Public Schools

The school year has started, and one of the easiest ways to prepare your children for learning is to ensure they begin each day with a healthy breakfast. Good nutrition is important to learning – as children behave better, have longer attention spans and are more eager to learn when they eat healthy meals.

Cincinnati Public Schools is here to help by offering every student a nutritious, free breakfast every school day. In fact, we were the first large school district in the nation to offer meals to students back in 1898. We continue that proud tradition today, serving approximately 5.5 million lunches and 3 million breakfast meals to students throughout the year, including citywide summer programs. Our goal is to provide exciting menu items that meet nutritional guidelines and are delicious.

Breakfast is free for every student in our district. And, while healthy cereal is certainly on the menu, students also can count on protein options, such as yogurt, a peanut-butter-and-jelly snack bar or low-fat string cheese. In the winter months, we offer a hot entrée option, such as whole-grain pancakes or breakfast sandwiches with turkey sausage.

Our 14 high schools provide reimbursable vending machines that offer a complete breakfast option, including milk, juice, fresh fruits and grain and protein selections. These vending machines are placed outside of the lunchroom in convenient places around the campuses. We also use our salad bars as breakfast kiosks and station them in entrance areas of the

28 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

schools. When students come in each morning, they can grab breakfast without having to go all the way to the cafeteria. This ensures that they can eat even if they’re running late.

No matter where your child attends school, keep in mind that great learning starts with a nutritious meal. Let’s make this the best year for all Cincinnati youngsters by ensuring that they begin each day with a healthy start.

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[ cincinnati parent] 29

Jennifer Garcia

>> Star ting healthy strategies now can mean lifelong fitness << It’s a hot-button topic in the news. We constantly hear of new studies, polls and breakthrough treatments for it. Our nation is obsessed with obesity – and for good reason. Childhood obesity has more than doubled in children and tripled in adolescents over the past 30 years, with more than one-third of children and teens considered overweight or obese in 2010, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

That means parents have to work especially hard to help kids stay healthy and avoid the dangerous side effects of weight-gain, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, bone and joint problems, sleep disorders, and social and psychological problems.

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center provides vital resources to families through its Center for Better Health and Nutrition (CBHN). Robert Siegel, MD, is the medical director of the Center and professor of Clinical Pediatrics at the University of Cincinnati. According to Dr. Siegel, parents need to take charge. “It’s essential for the whole family to be involved with a healthier lifestyle,” he says. “Try to find ways to keep your kids active at home. This often means less screen time; family walks are always a great idea.”

Simple steps for better health There’s no “magic pill” to preventing obesity. However, one simple step every family can take is eliminating or greatly reducing processed sugar from their 30 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

children’s diets. “Drinking sugar-containing liquids is the greatest risk factor for obesity,” Dr. Siegel says. The fructose in sugar, he says, is turned into fat and lipids (triglycerides) in a child’s body. Excess triglycerides can raise the risk for heart disease.

He recommends a “5-2-1-0” program every day:

> > > >

5 - Eat five fruits or vegetables 2 - No more than two hours of screen time 1 - At least one hour of physical activity 0 - Zero drinks that contain sugar (including fruit juice)

Sixty minutes of physical activity a day improves strength and endurance, builds healthy bones and muscles, controls weight, reduces anxiety and stress, increases self-esteem, and improves blood pressure and cholesterol.

Every child is different With so many sources of information on the subject, from doctors to websites, how can you know what’s right for your child? Kidshealth.org breaks it down into simple guidelines by age:

>

Birth to age 1: Breastfeeding is shown to prevent excessive weight gain in babies, in addition to many other health benefits.

> Ages 1 - 5: Begin introducing healthy habits. Offer a variety of healthy and delicious foods, and encourage toddlers to play actively. > Ages 6 - 12 : Encourage kids to be active every day through organized sports, recess games or family exercise. Involve them in selecting healthy foods and preparing meals. > Ages 13 - 18: Teens want to make their own choices. Laying a good foundation for healthy decision-making when they were young will guide them now. Keep encouraging teens to exercise and eat well. > All ages: Limit media time. Cook and eat meals together. Follow the USDA’s “MyPlate” recommendations for servings of each food group (www.choosemyplate.gov). Set a good example for your children by following these guidelines yourself!

Need help? Just ask!

If you are concerned about your child’s weight, or just need tips on getting healthier, your pediatrician can assess your child’s body mass index and discuss nutrition, physical activity and any other questions you have. Most pediatricians review this information at the child’s well-check visit, but if he or she doesn’t, parents shouldn’t hesitate to start the conversation.

Obesity is a fact of life for about one-third of Americans. There are many steps we can take to overcome it, but the best thing parents can do is to let their children know they are loved and accepted just the way they are. Health is important. Happiness is just as important. Hug your kids, then go outside and play.

------------------

Baby fat or overweight? How can I tell?

It may be difficult for some parents to believe that their cute, chubby toddler is actually overweight. Doctors use Body Mass Index (BMI) to determine healthy or unhealthy weight in children. BMI can easily be determined using an online calculator such as kidshealth.org/parent/ growth/growth/bmi_charts.

Children ages two to 19 may fall into one of four categories:

> >

underweight: BMI below the fifth percentile for age

normal weight: BMI at the fifth percentile and less than the 85th percentile

> >

overweight: BMI at the 85th and below 95th percentile obese: BMI at or above 95th percentile

It's important to remember that BMI is usually a good indicator, but may be difficult to interpret for children experiencing a growth spurt or those who are especially athletic, since muscle weighs more than fat. It’s always best to talk with your pediatrician if you are concerned about your child’s weight.

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[ cincinnati parent] 31

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

commentary and parenting

Bedtime Tokens True confessions of stay-at-home dad Pete Gilbert Every night I whisper three words in my son's ear as I tuck him in, "Go to sleep."

He's not an easy one to put to bed. My wife and I tried a few different methods to keep him in his room at bedtime, but nothing seemed to work.

Initially, we tried a reward chart, where the family would get ice cream after three good bedtimes. It worked great...once. Out of half-desperation and half-brilliance my wife came up with the idea of bedtime tokens.

Here are the rules: Every night he and his sister are each given two tokens (felt coasters).

Each token can be redeemed for computer time the next day.

If he came out of his room once, he lost one token.

Night two: My son lost his first token when he came out of his room. He brought it to me wrapped up in a pair of his underwear. His second token was taken from him when he came out wearing rain boots. He was testing the boundaries of this new system.

Ever since the second night however, our system has worked great. We've been doing this for over a month now and even modified it for vacation, where kids could use iPhones to play games. It has worked like a dream!

Other than the second night we tried this, I think our kids have probably only lost a total of two or three tokens. They are finally getting enough sleep and the bedtime battle is a thing of the past...at least for the time being.

If he came out twice, no computer time the next day.

Now, at bedtime the three words I whisper to my son have changed from "Go to sleep" to "I love you” – and we all couldn’t be happier.

Here's how it's going so far: Night one: Everything went according to plan. The kids stayed in their rooms and were happy to redeem their tokens the next morning.

Happy Parenting! www.facebook.com/petetheblogger

S E P T E M B E R 2013

[ cincinnati parent] 33

calendar SUN | 01

Cincinnati Bell / WEBN Fireworks at P&G Riverfest Times: 12:00 PM Phone: 513-686-8300 Cost: Free Where: Downtown Cincinnati www.webn.com/main.html Viewing locations along Cincinnati/Newport/ Covington riverfront and various other locations. Synchronized musical soundtrack can be heard on 102.7 WEBN-FM.

All-Star Blast at the Ballpark Times: 5:30 PM Phone: 513-791-4060 Cost: $149, $99 ages 13-20, $49 ages 3-12 Where: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati www.cancersupportcincinnati.org Presented by Cancer Support Community Includes reserved stadium parking, photographs with Reds mascots, tours of behind-the-scenes areas of stadium and Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, dinner buffet, and other entertainment prior to Cincinnati Bell/WEBN Fireworks.

MON | 02 Labor Day Picnic

Times: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM Phone: 513-521-9747 Cost: $12, free ages 2 and under Where: Stricker’s Grove, Ross www.strickersgrove.com Admission includes all rides. Free parking and soft drinks.

TUES | 03

Creeping Caterpillars Through Sunday, September 8th Phone: 513-771-8733 Cost: ($4/child, $5/adult, payable at the door) Where: Glenwood Gardens/Highfield Discovery Garden, Cincinnati greatparks.org/parks/glenwood-gardens From tiny caterpillar to gorgeous butterfly 34 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

or moth, we’ll look at the crazy variety of caterpillars that live in our gardens. Find out about their defense mechanisms, what they eat and how they change from an earth-bound creature to one with wings. Tue. 9/3–Sat. 9/7, 10:45 a.m., 1 p.m., 4 p.m. & Sun. 9/8, 1 & 4 p.m.

WEDS | 04 Little Tyke Hike

Times: 11:00 AM Phone: (513) 521-7275 Cost: Free Where: Winton Woods/Winton Centre, Cincinnati http://greatparks.org/ parks/winton-woods One fish, two fish, peek-a-boo to you fish! They have scales, swim and no legs. You and your 3−6 year old will engage in activities to explore the lives of our scaly friends, the fishes.

THURS | 05

Bugs for Little Naturalists Times: 10:00 AM Phone: (513) 385-4811 Cost: ($5/child, payable at the door) Where: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve/ Ellenwood Nature Barn, Cincinnati http://greatparks.org/parks/ miami-whitewater-forest Let’s learn all about bugs! Bring your 3−5 year old naturalist to have some fun with insects. Program includes a craft, hike and more. 10 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.

Books by the Banks 2013 poster debut Times: 6:30 PM Phone: 513-396-8960 Cost: Free Where: Joseph-Beth Booksellers, Cincinnati booksbythebanks.org See the new 2013 Books by the Banks poster and meet this year’s artist, children’s book illustrator Jeffrey Ebbeler. Following the discussion, artists from previous years will join Ebbeler in a QandA about their work and sign posters for purchase. The cost of the new 2013 poster is $15, and the previous years’ posters are $10 each. This

09.13

year’s Books by the Banks is Saturday, Oct. 12, at the Duke Energy Convention Center. Visit booksbythebanks.org.

miami-whitewater-forest Do bats fly into your hair? Will they suck your blood? Visit this selfguided exhibit to find out.

FRI | 06

SUN | 08

Phone: (513) 765-7000 Where: Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati cincinnati.reds.mlb.com Come cheer on the Reds as they take on the Dodgers! Plus, stay for Fireworks Friday: Post-game fireworks show with soundtrack starting approximately 15 minutes after the end of the game.

Phone: (513) 765-7000 Where: Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati cincinnati.reds.mlb.com Come cheer on the Reds as they take on the Dodgers! Sundays are family days at the ballpark! One member of the family pays full price and may purchase up to three non-premium tickets at half-price in advance of game day only. Excludes Outer View Level and Kroger Bleachers.

Cincinnati Reds VS LA Dodgers

Clinton County Corn Festival

Cincinnati Reds VS LA Dodgers

Through Sun., September 8th Phone: 937-383-5676 Cost: $4 Where: Clinton County Fairgrounds, Wilmington Celebrate agricultural heritage and honor one of area’s biggest industries. Featuring antique farm machinery, parade, games, food made from corn, quilt show and music.

Sunflower Revolution Fitness Festival

SAT | 07

MON | 09

Five Year Anniversary Celebration Times: 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM Phone: 513-497-2860 Cost: Free Where: Clifton Cultural Arts Center, Cincinnati http://cliftonculturalarts.org/index.html Please join us for the culmination of our Five Year Anniversary festivities featuring a public art display, a family art activity, a band, food trucks, and a cupcake contest See our website for details: www.cliftonculturalarts.org

Facts on Bats Exhibit Through Sunday, September 8th Times: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Phone: (513) 367-4774 Cost: ($1/craft, payable at the door) Where: Miami Whitewater Forest/ Visitor Center, Harrison OH http://greatparks.org/parks/

Phone: (513)558-6503 Where: Washington Park, Cincinnati http://washingtonpark.org 100K and 40K bike route, family-friendly downtown bike ride, 5K run/walk, mini Taste of Over The Rhine, yoga, Parkinson’s fitness activities and music by Tracy Walker.

Happiest Baby on the Block Times: 6:30 PM Phone: 475-4500 Cost: $50/couple (includes a Parent Kit containing the HBOB dvd) Where: Bethesda North Hospital, Cincinnati http://www.trihealth.com/ New babies are such a blessing, but they can also bring with them sleepless nights, crying, and sometimes quite a bit of stress In this 2-hour innovative workshop you will be taught step-by-step how to help your newborn sleep better and how to soothe even the fussiest baby in minutes Magic? A miracle? No, it’s a reflex.

TUES | 10

Growing Up a Farm Kid: Garden Harvest Through Wednesday, September 11th Times: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Phone: (513) 521-7275 Cost: $10/child + one free adult, $5/ additional adult, register by 9/8 Where: Winton Woods/ Parky’s Farm, Cincinnati http://greatparks.org/ parks/winton-woods Celebrate fall by harvesting potatoes from the garden to make French fries. Recommended for children ages 2−5 and their favorite adult.

WEDS | 11

Homeschool Science (East) Times: 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM Phone: (513) 474-0580 Cost: ($5/child, register by two days prior) Where: Woodland Mound, Cincinnati http://greatparks.org/parks/ woodland-mound Each month, home-schooled students, ages 5-12, and parents are invited to explore interactive learning stations, lessons and a guided hike. Register for one or all three programs. Monthly themes: Sep: Interesting Insects, Oct: Nocturnal Adaptations, Nov: Winter Survival.

THURS | 12

www.dukeenergycenter.com Hall A. Comics, celebrities, graphic novels, LEGOs, cards, toys, games, artists, writers and costume contest.

Times: 7:00 AM - 11:00 AM Phone: 513-671-9100 Cost: Registration fees vary Where: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati www.komencincinnati.org/ More than 19,000 breast cancer survivors and supporters will gather near the Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati to celebrate life and honor loved ones at the 2013 Susan G. Komen Greater Cincinnati Race for the Cure. Race day activities will include a 10K race, a 5K walk/run, a 2K family walk/run and the Fun Run on the field at Great American Ball Park.

ScopeOut Telescope Fair Times: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM Phone: (513)321-5186 Cost: See website for ticket pricing Where: Cincinnati Observatory Center, Cincinnati www.cincinnatiobservatory.org Head to the Cincinnati Observatory for their annual, all-day celebration of the telescopes.

Times: 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM Phone: 859-905-9656 Where: Country Pumpkins, Dry Ridge KY www.countrypumpkinsky.com Gift shop and concession stand open selling homemade fudge, drinks, hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, snacks, candy and s’more kits.

Cincinnati Comic Expo Through Sun., September 15th Phone: 513-290-6583 Cost: $15-$25 weekend, $15 oneday pass, free ages 12 and under Where: Duke Energy Convention Center, Cincinnati

Phone: 800-745-3000 Cost: $15-$95; plus fees Where: US Bank Arena www.usbankarena.com Live filming and broadcast. Top professional wrestlers.Scheduled to appear: Randy Orton, Sheamus, Alberto Del Rio, Rob Van Dam, Fandango, Prime Time Players, The Divas and others.

16th Annual Komen Greater Cincinnati Race for the Cure®

Times: 6:00 PM Phone: 513-771-8733 Cost: Free Where: Glenwood Gardens, Cincinnati http://greatparks.org/parks/ glenwood-gardens Do you know the difference between common and giant ragweed? Join the naturalist for this walk and discussion about weeds. We’ll have close-up views of some of the more typical things you might find in your landscape, as well as a few of the more unusual varieties.

Opening Night Free Hayride and Bonfire

World Wrestling Entertainment Smackdown

SAT | 14

After Work Weed Walk

FRI | 13

Coupon blogger Andrea Deckard leads a workshop on how to avoid common marketing traps at the grocery store, and shop smarter. Registration is required.

SUN | 15

Family Summer Fun Theater Series Times: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Phone: 513-357-2604 Cost: Free Where: Smale Riverfront Park, Cincinnati Featured performance with Bullooney Puppet Works and Wump Mucket Puppets with special guests Cincinnati Circus and Explore Nature.

MON | 16

Mindful Parenting Book Club Times: 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM Phone: 513-591-2332 Cost: Free Where: Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center, Cincinnati www.theplaceforfamilies.com/ Join us for a Mindful Parenting book club

WEDS | 18

Meatball Subs for the Family

Times: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Phone: 513-847-4474 Where: The Learning Kitchen, West Chester www.thelearningkitchen.com Meatball subs are loved by kids and adults and once you know how to make a delicious meatball, you can use them as appetizers or with spaghetti and meatballs.

THURS | 19 Monarch Mania Designed with busy parents in mind, we meet twice a month and go through the book slowly. We meet bi-weekly on Mondays; 7:30-8:30 from June 10Aug 19. For book info and to RSVP contact Erin at ebullard@nh-mt.com

Miss Meghan’s Music Phone: (513) 287-7000 Where: Cincinnati Museum Center, Cincinnati www.cincymuseum.org Miss Meghan’s Music is based on the Musikgarten curriculum, a child-centered program perfect for introducing music concepts. This family class is imaginative and interactive. It uses movement, instruments and the children’s own ideas throughout the lesson. Designed for children 2 to 5 years old (older and younger siblings are welcome).

TUES | 17 Grocery Savings

Times: 6:30 PM Phone: 513-369-6019 Cost: Free Where: Delhi Branch Library, Cincinnati http://savingslifestyle.com/ coupon-classes/

Times: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Phone: (513) 367-4774 Cost: ($5/ child, register by two days prior) Where: Miami Whitewater Forest, Harrison http://greatparks.org/parks/ miami-whitewater-forest Each month, home-schooled students, ages 5–12, and parents are invited to explore interactive learning stations, lessons and a guided outdoor exploration. Register for one or all three programs. Monthly themes: Sep: Ohio State Symbols, Oct: Fall in the Forest, Nov: All About Birds.

SOG Story Time: Moon Rabbit Times: 1:30 PM Where: Brazee Street Studios, Cincinnati www.brazeestreetstudios.com Join us on the third Thursday of the month for our SOG Storytime. This month, we’ll read “Moon Rabbit” by Natalie Russel, and create our own “moon-catchers” using safe fused glass components.

Designed for students age 3-6.

FRI | 20

The Final Frontier Through Sunday, September 22nd Phone: 513-381-3300 Cost: See website for ticket pricing Where: Music Hall, Cincinnati S E P T E M B E R 2013

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/www.cincinnatisymphony. org/home2.asp Boldly go with JMR and the Pops on a mission to experience epic scores from Star Wars and Star Trek, along with selections from orchestral masterpieces such as Holst’s The Planets and Strauss’. Host and narrator George Takei, “Mr. Sulu” himself of Star Trek fame, guides this space-themed multimedia musical extravaganza, featuring breathtaking NASA images on the big screen.

Show off your furry friend! Pet care expert Marsie Hall Newbold of Marsie’s Menagerie will emcee this year’s “justfor-fun” dog show. Contest categories include Best Looking, Best Trick, Best in Costume, and Most Obedient. Dongs not participating in the show can enter a drawing for a chance to win a door prize.

Where: Contemporary Arts Center, Cincinnati www.contemporaryartscenter.org Join the CAC to learn about the Australian duo Pip and Pop. Come make some artwork that looks sugary sweet and is good enough to eat. Then join friends from Moksha Yoga for some sugar-inspired movement.

Lebanon Country Applefest Train Ride Phone: 513-933-8022 Cost: $13, $8 ages 62 and up and ages 5-15, $5 ages 2-4, free under age 2 Where: Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad, Lebanon http://www.lebanonrr.com/ One-hour, round-trip train rides taking place at 12 p.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m.

Oktoberfest-Zinzinnati USA Through Sat., September 21st Phone: 513-579-3111 Where: Downtown Cincinnati www.oktoberfestzinzinnati.com/ Held on Fifth Street from Vine to Sentinel. German-style music, food and beer. Fun for the whole family!

Great Outdoor Weekend

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Fall Harvest Festival Through Sunday, September 22nd Times: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Phone: 513-563-9484 Cost: $8 adults, $4 children 5-11, children 4 and under are free Where: Heritage Village Museum, Sharonville www.heritagevillagecincinnati.org Enjoy the sights and sounds of Autumn as you tour through a 19th Century Village. Activities include: wagon rides, pumpkin painting, donut eating contest, hearth cooking and cider making demonstrations, games and much more.

Country Pumpkins “Got Milk” Day Times: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Phone: 859-905-9656 Cost: Free Where: Country Pumpkins, Dry Ridge KY www.countrypumpkinsky.com Join us for one of our two “Got Milk” Days at Country Pumpkins Fall Festival. (A second “Got Milk” Day will be presented on October 12th.) Our first 100 guests will receive FREE chocolate milk. Free cow milking demonstrations will be given throughout the day for your family - this will be a fun and educational presentation about cows, milk, and our life on the dairy farm.

SUN | 22

Furry Fort Thomas Dog Show Times: 2:00 PM Cost: Free Where: Carrico/Fort Thomas Branch Library, Fort Thomas KY www.cc-pl.org/locations/ carrico-fort-thomas 36 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

celebration. Check-in for walk 3 p.m.

Includes admission to zoo for evening, an official T-shirt and a personal fundraising page. With face painting, visits from Zoo’s animal ambassadors, several health stations and other activities. Train and concessions will be up and running.

MON | 23

For more events, visit cincinnatiparent.com!

TUES | 24

Homeschool Poetry Group Phone: (513)721-ARTS Times: 2:30 PM Cost: Free Where: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore, Cincinnati www.bluemanateebooks.com Join other homeschooling families as children read favorite poems or ones they’ve written themselves on the LePage stage.

WEDS | 25

Wee Wednesday: Kiddie Couture Times: 10:00 AM Cost: Free Where: Cincinnati Art Museum, Cincinnati www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org Let your little ones, ages 5 and under, explore all of the cool clothing in the museum while enjoying four interactive story times in our galleries!

THURS | 26 Thursday Art Play: Sugarplum Fairies

Times: 10:30 AM Phone: (513)345-8400 Cost: included with admission

FRI | 27

Cincinnati Reds vs Pittsburg Pirates Phone: (513) 765-7000 Where: Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati cincinnati.reds.mlb.com Come cheer on the Reds as they take on the Pirates! Plus, stay for Fireworks Friday: Post-game fireworks show with soundtrack starting approximately 15 minutes after the end of the game.

Weekday One Hour Train Ride Times: 10:30 AM Phone: (513)933-8022 Cost: see website for ticket pricing Where: Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad, Lebanon http://www.lebanonrr.com Take a one-hour nostalgic train ride through the country side of Warren County while listening to passenger conductors describe railroad history and operations.

Train departs at 10:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.

SAT | 28

Cincinnati Walks for Kids Times: 4:30 PM Phone: 513-636-2941 Cost: $25, $5 ages 17 and under.

Registration required.

Where: Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Cincinnati http://give.cincinnatichildrens.org/site/ PageServer?pagename=walk_home Fundraising walk, day of family fun and

Through Sunday, September 29th Phone: 513-541-1538 Where: Greater Cincinnati www.greatoutdoorweekend.org Nation’s largest outdoor recreation and nature education sampler, offering free outdoor events for families. More than 150 activities and programs, hosted at 50 different sites across Tri-state region.

Visit the website for a full list of events.

SUN | 29 Solar Cooking

Times: 3:00 PM Phone: (513) 563-4513 Cost: FREE Where: Sharon Woods/Sharon Centre, Sharonville http://greatparks.org/parks miami-whitewater-forest Have you ever tasted sunshine? We’ll spend some time learning about our closest star, the sun, and then build solar ovens to bake our own delicious treats!

MON | 30

Music in the Garden Phone: (513) 287-7000 Where: Cincinnati Museum Center, Cincinnati www.cincymuseum.org Discover the magic of music together! Sing, dance, chant and play instruments in an informal setting. Eliana Corredor, a registered Music Together teacher, leads this workshop.

Designed for ages birth to 5 years old.

At Cincinnati Parent, 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.

ongoing events Ohio Renaissance Festival Occurring Every Sat & Sun Beginning Sat., August 31st Through Sun., October 20th Times: 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM Phone: 513-897-7000 Cost: $20, $10 ages 5-12; discounts available online Where: Ohio Renaissance Festival, Harverysburg www.renfestival.com/ Fair with 16th century theme. Jousting, displays, costumed performers, entertainment stages, arts and crafts shops and concessions. Rain or shine.

Barnyard Festival Occurring Every Sat & Sun Beginning Sat., September 21st Through Sun., September 29th Times: 12:00 PM - 5:30 PM Phone: 937-289-2500 Where: Bonnybrook Farms, Clarksville www.bonnybrookfarms.com Fall activities include “Pick Your Own” Pumpkin Patch, Adventure Hayride, Crazed Corn Maze, Giant Slingshots, Clodhopper Golf, Pony Rides, Fishing Derby, Barnyard Hunt, farm animals to pet and brush and fish to feed, Farmyard Play Area, Horseshoe Hill, Guess the Weight of the Gianormous Pumpkin and more. Farm Kitchen Cafe features seasonal, made-from-scratch foods and desserts.

Strauss Troy Market Occurring Daily Through September 24 Times: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Phone: 513-763-8036 Where: Fountain Square, Cincinnati www.myfountainsquare.com Fresh produce, baked goods, prepared lunch foods and beverages, fresh flowers and handmade items.

Country Pumpkins Fall Festival Occurring Daily Beginning Fri., September 13th Through Sat., November 2nd Times: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Phone: 859-905-9656 Cost: Free Where: Country Pumpkins Farm, Dry Ridge www.countrypumpkinsky.com Country Pumpkins Fall Festival is the perfect outing for your family, birthday party, or church group Hosted on our 250 acre family dairy farm. We also have lots of fun activities for your family to enjoy Our kiddie

corn maze, petting zoo, corn box, straw bale maze, and play area are all FREE, and our U-Pick Pumpkin Patch, 4 acre corn maze, hayrides, barrel train rides, Gift Shop items and food are available for purchase.

Dr. Crawley’s Insectorium Occurring Daily (except Mon) Through Sun., December 29th Times: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Phone: 800-778-3390 Cost: Included with admission: $29.95 ages 13-59, $23.95 ages 60 and up, $15.95 ages 5-12, free ages 4 and under Where: Creation Museum, Petersburg http://creationmuseum.org Learn interesting facts, such as, not all insects are bugs, but all bugs are insects. Collection represents a lifetime of collecting by Dr. Crawley.

With an animatronic person, named Dr. Arthur Pod, who answers many questions about insects.

09.13

> find more

ON THE WEB

at www.cincinnatiparent.com

Where: Cincinnati Museum Center, Cincinnati www.cincymuseum.org/omnimax/ Visit sites of major dinosaur discoveries in the Patagonia region of South America and travel back in time to see these beasts come to life. Journey through the lives of two specimens of these achievements of evolution. Various show times daily.

Join Today: Girl Scouts Makes a Difference

FAMILY JUMP NIGHT

Occurring Daily Through Tues., December 31st Phone: 800-537-6241 www.girlscoutsofwesternohio.org Today’s Girl Scouts—is everything you’d expect and more. Don’t you love it when your daughter can’t wait for tomorrow? Let your daughter do all the cool stuff she’s imagined—like exploring the outdoors, creating your own artistic masterpiece or helping the community with new friends. Have her start the fun now; troops are starting in August and throughout the year.

Occurring Every Tues. & Thurs.

Times: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM Phone: Call 513.829.7867 Cost: $8.00 per child.

Where: Pump It Up, West Chester www.pumpitupparty.com/oh/west-chester Come play on our giant, soft, fun-filled interactive inflatables during our evening Pop-In Playtime! Share quality time and promote physical fitness while bouncing, sliding, climbing and jumping at Pump It Up. Enjoy spending time with your family, meeting other families and making new friends in a safe, clean, climate controlled environment. Call Us For Details!

Old West Festival Occurring Every Sat & Sun Beginning Sat., September 7th Through Sun., October 6th Times: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Phone: 866-937-8337 Cost: $12, $6 ages 6-12; free ages 5 and under Where: Old West Festival, Williamsburg www.oldwestfestival.com 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.

Dinosaurs: Giants of Patagonia Occurring Daily Through Sun., January 5, 2014 Price: $4.50-$7.50 Phone: (513)287-7000

Ultimate Dinosaurs: Giants from Gondwana Occurring Daily Through Sun., January 5, 2014 Price: $15, $13 ages 60 and up, $11 children. Members: 9, $7 children Phone: (513)287-7000 Where: Cincinnati Museum Center, Cincinnati www.cincymuseum.org Based on groundbreaking research from scientists around the world, exhibition reveals bizarre dinosaurs virtually unknown to North Americans because they evolved in isolation in South America, Africa and Madagascar.

S E P T E M B E R 2013

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