September 2013 | Dayton Parent Magazine

DAYTON

PARENT September 2013 FREE

birthday party

daytonparentmagazine.com

AVOIDING childhood obesity

FUN

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

PREMIERE

ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2013 [ dayton parent | premiere issue ] 1

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SEPTEMBER 2013 [ dayton parent | premiere issue ] 3

contents

SEPTEMBER 2013

features

commentary & parenting

10 | BIRTHDAY PARTY FUN

22 | ASK THE TEACHER

Five “outside the box” ideas for for your next celebration

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

12 | AVOIDING CHILDHOOD OBESITY

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

Starting healthy strategies now can mean

Walking the line

lifelong fitness

14 | TWEEN TIMELINES

10

28 | SEPTEMBER HAPPENINGS Back to school is winding up as festival season winds down

What freedoms should be allowed when?

16 | COPING WITH CHILDHOOD CANCER Helping the whole family deal with a diagnosis

29 | TRUE CONFESSIONS OF A STAY-AT-HOME DAD 31 | THE HOMESCHOOL HEARTBEAT

20 | THE RIGHT PRIVATE SCHOOL FIT

Decided to homeschool - now what?

What factors play into this important decision?

calendars

24 | WHEN TESTS GET IT WRONG 30 | YOUTH SPORTS AND CONCUSSIONS

14

Bedtime tokens

32 | SEPTEMBER EVENTS

22

34 | ONGOING EVENTS 35 | FUN & WACKY

What parents need to know this fall season

in every issue 6 | PUBLISHER’S NOTE

ON THE COVER Abby Mark (6) and Ellie Mark (4)

8 | COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Photo by: Obscura Photography obscuraphotographystudio.com 4 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

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in every issue

[ publisher’s note ]

DAYTON

Welcome to the premier issue of Dayton Parent!

PARENT PUBLISHER Mary Wynne Cox | Mary@daytonparentmagazine.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER & SALES DIRECTOR Katy Mark | Katy@daytonparentmagazine.com

As the Associate Publisher of Dayton Parent, I’m so excited to bring my fellow Dayton residents an exciting new resource of information and events geared specifically for families in our area.

EDITOr Susan Bryant | Susan@daytonparentmagazine.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jennifer Baum | Jennifer@daytonparentmagazine.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Katie Clark | Katie@daytonparentmagazine.com

web developer

With two little girls myself (check out the cover models!) I know I am always on the lookout for upto-date articles on kids’ issues and expert advice for those tricky parenting questions. Plus – my family likes to keep on top of all the fun opportunities in and around our city. This kind of information is just what Dayton Parent aims to provide - a “go to” source for moms and dads to keep abreast of the latest topics affecting children and be in-theknow about the very best of what Dayton has to offer.

Wendy Cox | Wendy@daytonparentmagazine.com

advertising coordinator Karen RIng | Karen@daytonparentmagazine.com

graphic designer Maria Tancredi | Maria@daytonparentmagazine.com

business manager Roxanne Burns | Roxanne@daytonparentmagazine.com

editorIal assistant Wendy Schrepherman | S.Wendy@daytonparentmagazine.com

Contributing Writers Katy Mark, Sarah McCosham, Katrina Anne Willis, Michelle Shirk, Jennifer Garcia, Pete Gilbert, Deb Krupowicz, Kelly Blewett, Alicia Elam of the Southern Ohio Homeschool Organization, Lisa Seibert of DaytonLocal.com, Jeff Webb of Dayton Dragons

I hope you enjoy this first issue.

Our goal at Dayton Parent is to truly become a local family resource, so please feel free to contact me at katy@ daytonparentmagazine.com with your ideas and suggestions for what you would like to see us cover. If you are a local business or organization and want to extend your reach to area families, we would be happy to discuss advertising opportunities available through our magazine as well.

Thanks for picking up our debut issue – we hope you find Dayton Parent a great addition to your family reading!

See you around town!

Katy Mark Associate Publisher

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Calendar of Events calendar@daytonparentmagazine.com Contact Us daytonparent@daytonparentmagazine.com Copyright Dayton 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 daytonparentmagazine.com

SEPTEMBER 2013 [ dayton parent | premiere issue ] 7

in every issue

[ community spotlight ]

community spotlight Get Clipping It’s that time of year again. Time to gather up all of the Box Tops for Education you have been saving over the summer! Box Tops for Education has contributed over $525 million to participating schools since the launch of the program in 1996. Schools use the money earned to purchase computers, playground equipment, books, microscopes, art supplies and other curriculum enrichment items.

Contributing is easy – simply clip and collect the pink and blue box top logo found on everyday items such as canned soup, salsa, cereal and even printer paper and send them to your child’s school.

Grandparents, aunts, neighbors and friends can collect them for you, too. Each box top is worth ten cents. If your school does not currently participate in the Box Tops for Education Program, visit www.boxtops4education.com to learn how to clip and earn for your school!

Dayton Women’s Fair Apparel, cooking gadgets, jewelry, children’s items, unique decorating and gift ideas are just a few of the booths you will find at this year’s Dayton Women’s Fair. Come out and taste samples (even wine!), try a new hairstyle, get financial advice and shop till you drop! Grab your girlfriends and start your holiday shopping early. Famous chefs, free makeovers and fashion shows will be taking place all under one roof. Bring your moms, daughters and girlfriends for one full weekend of fun! The event takes place Saturday, September 21st – Sunday, 22nd from 10:00 am -5:00 pm at the Dayton Airport and Expo Center in Vandalia. Contact Josh Mandich at 937-225-2079 or josh.mandich@ coxin.com for more information or to rent a booth.

10th Annual Rubber Duck Regatta Have fun, support a good cause and maybe even win a prize! The 10th Annual URS Rubber Duck Regatta is a fundraiser to support programs for local children and adults with disabilities at United Rehabilitation Services.

URS is now providing services every day to more than 400 children and adults with Cerebral Palsy, Down syndrome, Muscular Dystrophy, Autism, Alzheimer’s, Pervasive Developmental Disorders and many other disabilities. Fifteen thousand rubber ducks will be dropped into the Great Miami River. Five dollars for one duck or $25 for six gives you a chance to win great prizes! One hundred per cent of the profits will go to this worthy cause.

Your duck may win you a Norris Lake Houseboat Rental, $1,000 Kroger or Watson’s gift certificate, Hot Head Burritos for a year or even a 2013 Chevy Spark donated by Fat Daddy’s Pump ‘N Go. The event takes place on September 21st, 2013 from 3:45 pm to 5:00 pm at RiverScape MetroPark in conjunction with the Taste of Miami Valley festival. For more information, contact Ashley at 937-853-5464 or abrookey@ursdayton.org.

Discover the Dinosaurs!

Explore prehistoric life in an environment that includes learning, discovery and fun. Discover the Dinosaurs has over 60 replica dinosaurs, a dino dig, dino theater, scavenger hunt, T- Rex rides, inflatables, face painting, mini golf and more. The event will be held at the Dayton Convention Center September 13th-15th and tickets for the exhibit are $12 each. There is an additional cost for rides, mini golf and some other areas. Go to www. discoverthedinosaurs.com for more info.

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55th Annual Tipp City Mum Festival For a weekend filled with good old fashioned fun be sure to visit the Tipp City Mum Festival going on Friday, September 27th – Sunday, September 29th at Tipp City Park on North Third Street. The theme this year is “How the West was mum’d.” The festival includes arts and craft exhibits, delicious concessions, a merchant’s market and wonderful entertainment. Children will enjoy the “Mumkids Land” with many inflatables to bounce on. For inquiries, contact 937-387-6774.

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BIRTHDAY PARTY FUN

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 Dayton area.

SWEET CELEBRATION

If refreshments are a top priority, have your child’s party at a place where food is the focus. At a 90-minute Graeters (www.graeters.com) “Make Your Own Sundae” party, guests can choose their favorite ice cream flavor and two toppings before adding whipped cream, pecans, sprinkles and cherries. An “Ice Cream Cake Party” is also available for birthday traditionalists. You can have your party at any Graeter’s store, but may want to choose the Oakwood store for its private party room.

DAY AT THE FARM

Learning Tree Farm (www.learningtreefarm.org), an educational farm facility that hosts a variety of programs and interactive experiences, welcomes birthday boys and girls to celebrate at its covered picnic shelter. In addition to facility rental, the birthday party package includes farm admission for up to 15 guests plus organized games and activities. Who needs Pin the Tail on the Donkey when you can pet a pony or pose for photos on a tractor? For additional themed fun, encourage guests to wear bandanas, overalls or other “farm-themed” attire!

ARTY PARTY

If your kiddo is the creative type, consider celebrating his birthday with art. At the Dayton Art Institute (www.daytonartinstitute.org), young artists will enjoy two hours of studio time plus a museum scavenger hunt. You can skip goody bags since each child will create and leave the party with two masterpieces of his own. Unlike some venues, the Dayton Art Institute allows parents to bring their own snacks and beverages, so bring on the palette-shaped birthday cake! Museum members receive a discount on the party price.

ACTIVE AFFAIR

Would you rather see young party guests moving than sitting? Consider Jack N Jill’s Hill (www.jacknjillshill.com), a kiddie gym that offers gymnastics, dance and other active programs for children of all ages. Partygoers get 55 minutes of gym play including games and obstacle courses, making this venue a perfect option for busy toddlers and preschoolers. Jack N Jill’s Hill provides coaches to facilitate gym activities, supplies cupcakes and juice, and takes care of set up and clean up. In other words, parents need not do much other than relax and enjoy the party! If you’re looking for something sporty for older athletes, the MetroParks Ice Rink (www. metroparks.org) hosts group

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Michelle Shirk

events during its winter operating season, while Laser Web Dayton (www.funattheweb.com) offers laser tag party packages.

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 Boonshoft Museum of Discovery (www.boonshoftmuseum.org). The party package includes use of the party room, decorations, cake, a presenter to lead party activities and free museum admission for up to 15 guests. The birthday boy or girl can choose from exciting themes like “Dinosaur Discovery,” “Animal Exploration,” “Garden Tea Party” and “Mad Scientist.”

Each party is targeted to a specific age range and some are tied in with museum exhibits. With eleven themes to choose from, there’s sure to be something for everyone!

Didn’t find your perfect party on our list? There are also pizza parties, park 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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AVOIDING childhood obesity Starting healthy strategies now can mean lifelong fitness Jennifer Garcia

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.

Becky Gonter-Dray, RD, CSP, LD, is a board certified specialist in pediatric nutrition with Dayton Children’s Hospital, and author of a nutrition blog, “Activities to Zucchini.”

She says it’s great that there is so much information about obesity and programs for helping children and families – including Dayton Children’s Hospital’s Lipid Clinic and Nutrition Clinic. “But all these great messages need to continue in our homes and be modeled by our families,” she says. “We need to educate our children on healthy living.”

Simple Steps for Better Health There’s no “magic pill” to preventing obesity. However, one simple step every family can take is making exercise a family habit. “Get moving with your children,” says Gonter-Dray. “Increasing one’s activity and eating healthier foods, coupled together, are the keys to success.”

She 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:

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•

•

•

•

•

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! “It’s important for family members to be active supporters,” says Gonter-Dray.

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. “Being proactive versus reactive is key to a healthy lifestyle,” says Gonter-Dray.

“Working with a medical team, including a registered dietitian, will ensure your child loses weight in a healthy manner.”

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 http:// kidshealth.org/parentgrowth/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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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.

Ohio 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 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.”

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 14 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

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.

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.

“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.”

“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.”

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.

“

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.

”

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Coping with Childhood Helping the whole family deal with a diagnosis.

Sarah McCosham

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.

Cancer

medical language can be confusing, and can sound foreign and scary. “It’s important for parents to ask questions. Even if you ask the same question five times -- ask a sixth,” she says.

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 truly couldn’t have made it without them,” he says. He adds that the Children’s National Cancer Society was very generous with lodging, meals and other travel expenses.

Local resources In Dayton, patients have access to the Dayton Children’s Hospital, and a short drive south, the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center.

In addition, Byer cites the local chapters of the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society, Special Wish and A Kid Again. “Your hospital can connect you with all of these organizations,” she says.

“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.

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.”

“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.”

Byer says social media can be a great tool for parents, providing them with a network of support from families who know what they’re going through.

A website can also help parents process what’s going on, and can provide parents with a sense of community and support throughout the journey.

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.”

One day at a time

Support systems “No parent expects to hear the words ‘your child has cancer.’ This diagnosis is devastating and can leave parents in a state of shock,” says Pam Byer, Senior Medical Social Worker at Dayton Children’s Hospital. Byer says that

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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.”

P

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The Right

Private School Fit What factors play into this important decision?

Sarah McCosham You’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.

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. At the beginning of the search, parents should ask, “What’s the personality of my child?” advises Susan Strong, Director of Enrollment at The Miami Valley School. “Parents know their child best – their strengths and weaknesses, what they need and how they should be challenged,” she says. “It’s important to find a school that can address your child’s specific needs.”

Matthew Sableski, Principal at Carroll High School, says that every child has interests and goals that are unique -- and parents have expectations and areas they feel are important for their education. “It’s vital that a family chooses a school that meets their specific needs and can help their child be as successful as he or she can be.

No one school is best for every student, regardless of how hard they try to be.” The only way to

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know if a school will be the right choice for your child and family is by spending some time there. Most private schools have entire days set aside for prospective students to tour, attend classes, talk to other students and ask questions. Strong says it’s imperative for families to see schools in person before making any decisions – “it’s the only way you’ll really know if the school feels right.”

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

1.

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.

2.

As a parent, what is your impression of the school? “Is the community welcoming, are parents involved, does the right blend of diversity exist, what is the ‘spirit’ of the school? These factors are all part of the ‘right fit’ that a family should look for in their choice,” says Sableski.

3.

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.

4.

What about financial aid? 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.

“At the end of the day,” says Strong, “it’s really about your child being in the best environment for their education.” With a little legwork early in your search process, you can find the right school to nurture and challenge your child – and help him reach his full potential.

SEPTEMBER 2013 [ dayton parent | premiere issue ] 21

commentary & parenting

[ ask the teacher ]

Ask the Teacher

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

By Deb Krupowicz

Q

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?

A

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.

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 wellreasoned response.

Q

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?

A

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

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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.

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

[ ask the teacher ] commentary

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.

& parenting

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.

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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@daytonparentmagazine.com.

DAYTON CHRISTIAN

SEPTEMBER 2013 [ dayton parent | premiere issue ] 23

advertorial

When Tests Get lt Wrong There are few things more devastating than losing a child — especially when it could have been prevented. The tiny lives lost each year from infection with Group B Streptococcus can be saved by better screening and appropriate treatment.

Group B Strep (GBS) is just one of the many bacterial communities that colonize a healthy adult. GBS bacteria live harmlessly in approximately 25 percent of healthy women. However, when the bacteria are transmitted to a baby during birth, the newborn can become seriously ill.

Negative Test, False Reassurance Stephanie Worthy was tested for GBS 33 weeks into her pregnancy and the test was negative. Her son, Jaxton, was born on the evening of December 7, 2011. He was completely healthy and sailed through all the newborn tests with high marks. Six hours later he was in neonatal intensive care for observation. Four days later he was dead. “They didn’t diagnose him [with GBS] for eight hours,” Worthy explains, presumably because her GBS test was negative.

RaeAnne Latimore also tested negative for GBS, at 35 and a half weeks. Her son, Blake, was born at 5:30 in the afternoon of January 6, 2012, one month after Jaxton Worthy was born. At one o’clock the next morning Blake was making strange grunting sounds and Latimore couldn’t rouse him for feeding. She became concerned, but the nurse reassured her that the noises were normal. Latimore insisted that they look Blake over in the nursery. Half an hour later the doctor came in to tell Latimore that Blake was seriously ill. At 8:37 that morning, “our little fighter gave up his fight,” says Latimore.

“They ruled out GBS because of my negative test,” she explains, but a nurse practitioner who had been on the team that tried to save him thought the symptoms looked like GBS and asked the pathologist to check for it in the autopsy.

24 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

She was right. GBS infection was the cause of Blake’s death. “Testing negative doesn’t mean you are negative,” warns Worthy.

Better Tests “False negatives can be a problem,” explains Amanda Smith, medical technologist in the microbiology department at The Pathology Lab in Lake Charles, Louisiana. “We were researching why even with patients who were getting good prenatal care, mothers who tested negative were sometimes delivering babies that were infected,” says Smith. In January of this year, The Pathology Lab switched from the old culture-based test to the illumigene® GBS test from Meridian Bioscience, Inc. because the molecular test is more sensitive, according to Smith. As more labs switch to the more sensitive molecular test, perhaps outcomes like Blake’s and Jaxton’s will become even more uncommon.

Article submitted by Meridian Bioscience, Inc.

SEPTEMBER 2013 [ dayton parent | premiere issue ] 25

commentary & 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!” 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?

26 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

“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.

MERIDIAN AD #2

SEPTEMBER 2013 [ dayton parent | premiere issue ] 27

September Happenings Back to school is winding up as festival season winds down Lisa Seibert, Community Executive, DaytonLocal.com

The lazy days of summer are behind us (I hear you, what lazy days?) Life is beginning to settle into a familiar pattern again; getting the kids off to school, practice, homework, prompt baths, early bedtimes (and the arguments that sometimes follow). If you still have a little space in your September schedule, here are some fun options.

Beavercreek Popcorn Festival Saturday, September 7th 10:00 am - 8:00 pm Sunday, September 8th 11:00 am - 6:00 pm; Admission: Free

This festival has over 200 booths with festival foods, continuous live entertainment, 5K popcorn run, tantalizing treats, special services, creative crafts and sensational specialties made with popcorn. Included with the festival is a children’s area with games, contests and other activities to delight younger children. For more information, visit www.beavercreekpopcornfestival.org.

Clinton County Corn Festival Friday, September 6th 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Saturday, September 7th 9:00 am - 11:00 pm Sunday, September 8th 9:00 am - 6:00 pm; Admission: $3 day, $5 weekend pass

Come to the 36th annual Clinton County Corn Festival. The festival features antique farm machinery, a parade, games, all types of food made from corn, a quilt show, musical entertainment, antiques and crafts and the Corn Olympics!

Cowvin’s Corny Maze at Young’s Jersey Dairy Saturdays & Sundays Aug 3th - Oct 27th 11:00 am – 6:00 pm; Admission: $5 for ages 5 and up (ages 4 & under are free)

Friday, September 6th – Sunday, September 8th Friday, September 13th – Sunday, September 15th; Admission: Ticket prices $18 for ages 2+ (Group discounts available)

Cowvin, the baby of the Cow Family, has created a family fun maze at Young’s Jersey Dairy. The maze is created from over 150,000 square feet (more than 3-D acres) of cornfield and has over one mile of paths. Check out www.youngsdairy. com/cowvins-corny-maze/ to learn more!

Take a train ride with a full size Thomas the Tank Engine™ - includes meeting Sir Topham Hatt, storytelling, live music and more. This event takes place at Lebanon Mason & Monroe Railroad in Lebanon OH. Visit www.lebanonrr.com to learn more.

Pony Rides at Carriage Hill Farm

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey ® DRAGONS Circus at Nutter Center

Saturdays in September and October from 12:00 pm - 3:30 pm; Admission: $5.00 per child

Hand-led pony rides, for youngsters ages 2 - 8, are offered on Saturdays through October from 12:00 noon until 3:30 pm. Reservations are not required. Don’t forget your camera!

Disney’s Aladdin Jr. at Town Hall Theatre Weekends Friday September 13 – Sunday September 29; Admission: Ticket prices range from $10 to $15

Hitch a ride on a magic carpet and travel to Agrabah, the City of Enchantment. When a street urchin falls for the sultan’s daughter, it’s love at first sight! But the power-hungry Jafar has other plans for these two and he’ll stop at nothing to become ruler himself. Enter a troublesome genie and let the fun begin! (Recommended for youth ages four and up, approximate running time is 70 minutes.) For details, visit www.washingtontwp. org/recreation/theatre.

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Day Out With Thomas Train Ride

Thursday, September 26th– Sunday, September 29th; Admission: Ticket prices range from $15 to $70

Experience circus spectacles so incredible that once again you will believe in the unbelievable!

Dragon tribes must prove that they have virtues of Courage, Strength, Wisdom and Heart to arouse dragons which appear right before your very eyes!

For more family friendly events, please visit Dayton Parent Magazine’s online calendar, powered by DaytonLocal.com.

[ pete gilbert, stay-at-home dad ]

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

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.

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.

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.

Happy parenting! www.facebook.com/petetheblogger

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SEPTEMBER 2013 [ dayton parent | premiere issue ] 29

youth

sports and concussions

What parents need to know this fall season

Jeff Webb, Vice President of Corporate Partnerships, Dayton Dragons Professional Baseball Team

With a new school year beginning, the transition of youth sports begins as well.

Some families begin the switch from baseball to football, some hang on to baseball as long they can and play Fall ball, and some like my family, begin the switch to youth hockey. (Yes, there is youth hockey in Dayton!)

The Dayton Bluehawks Travel Hockey Club (DBTHC), the Dayton Bomber Youth Hockey League (DBYHL) and Springboro Hockey Association (SHA) are pleased to announce a collaborative effort between these organizations to enhance youth hockey in the greater Dayton area. Beginning with the 2012-13 hockey season, Dayton’s longest established youth hockey groups will work together to provide the community with a variety of skill appropriate, centralized teams and programs that will deliver improved player development and offer more beneficial training for our young hockey players.

(For more information, visit the DHA website at http://www.daytonhockeyassociation.org/.)

Youth football is also in full swing this time of year. As I wind my way through the park to the baseball fields for final tryouts for the next season, I find myself dodging mini football players running laps and conditioning for the season.

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Whether you just take in the occasional game or are a diehard football fan, it’s hard not to notice the heightening awareness of concussions in youth contact sports. If you’ve seen a commercial for the Heads Up Program supported by the NFL, you know this refers to the proper tackling technique to prevent helmet to helmet contact.

What you may not be aware of in youth sports is the Ohio Return to Play Law which went into effect on April 26, 2013. Here’s what you need to know as a parent:

For athletes participating in youth sports organizations (non-school sports):

1.

Starting April 26, 2013, parents and athletes are required to receive a concussion information sheet annually for each sport.

2.

Coaches, referees or officials must remove an athlete from play if the athlete is exhibiting the signs and symptoms of a concussion during practice or a game.

3.

4.

What are the signs that an athlete may have a concussion? Some of these symptoms include: • •

• • • • • • •

•

• • • • • • • • • •

Appearing dazed or stunned Being confused about assignment or position Forgetting plays Being unsure of game, score or opponent Moving clumsily Answering questions slowly Losing consciousness (even briefly) Showing behavior or personality changes Unable to recall events before or after a hit or fall Any headache or “pressure” in head (how badly it hurts does not matter) Nausea or vomiting Balance problems or dizziness Double or blurry vision Sensitivity to light and/or noise Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy or groggy Concentration or memory problems Confusion Does not “feel right” Trouble falling asleep Sleeping more or less than usual

The athlete cannot return to play on the same day that the player is removed.

(For more information on Ohio’s Return to Play Law, visit www.healthyohioprogram.org/concussion)

The athlete is not permitted to return to play until he or she has been assessed and received written clearance by a physician (MD or DO).

Enjoy a fun and safe sports season with your kids this fall and winter! Always remember to be supportive of all players and go easy on those coaches (most of them are just volunteers and donate their time for the kids!)

The Homeschool Heartbeat

[ the homeschool heartbeat ] commentary

& parenting

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?

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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!

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

DISCOVERY HOUSE DAY CARE

SEPTEMBER 2013 [ dayton parent | premiere issue ] 31

calendar SUNDAY | 01 AlterFest Time: 12:00pm Location: Alter High School www.alterhs.org

5K, great food, games, Entertainment and activities for all ages. Expanded games and rides for children and adults!

Labor Day @ Youngs Dairy Time: 7:00am - 10:00pm Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy http://youngsdairy.com Working dairy farm with restaurant, bakery, miniature golf, driving range, and batting cage and gift shop. Located in Yellow Springs, OH. Bring the kids along for a great family day out at Youngs Dairy!

MONDAY | 02 Montgomery County Fair

Time: 8:00am Location: Montgomery County Fairgrounds www.montcofair.com 937-224-1619

Carnival Rides, music, demolition derby and so much more.

THURSDAY | 05 Let’s Bug Out Time: 10:00am - 11:00am Location: Sugarcreek MetroPark https://www.metroparks.org Babies love insects! Bring your baby out to a prairie for sun and fresh air as naturalists catch harmless insects for your baby to observe. A baby backpack or carrier is required as trails are not stroller-friendly.

FRIDAY | 06

Clinton County Fair Time: 11:00am - 10:00pm Location: Main St., Wilmington http://clintoncountyfair.org No matter what you crave, you can find it at the fair. Come to the fair, grab your favorite food and sit and enjoy one of the rides or shows on the grounds.

SATURDAY | 07 Kid’s Club creates Pot People

Time: 10:00am - 11:00am Location: Meadow View Gardens http://www.meadowviewgardens. net Have fun creating people out of plant pots.

Miamisburg Starving Artists Fair Time: 8:00am - 5:00pm Location: Library Park www.miamisburgstarvingartists.org An annual event that shows off the many talents of local and regional artists and artisans.

Over 120 booths and all items are $50 or under! Plus there will be delicious food available.

SUNDAY | 08

91.3 WYSO Concert Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm Location: RiverScape Metro Park http://www.wyso.org Join 91.3 WYSO for a free summer concert at RiverScape MetroPark!

The concert will feature live bands, food, drink and much more.

MONDAY | 09 Spider Kid Time: 10:00am - 11:00am Location: Hills & Dales MetroPark: Shelter

32 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

SEPTEMBER

www.metroparks.org Discover the world of spiders as we search for webs and learn about their occupants. We will also discuss why people are so afraid of these little friends of nature.

Ages three to five years old.

THURSDAY | 12 Paint Me a Story

Time: 11:00am Location: Paintbrush Pottery http://www.paintbrushpottery.com Listen to the story “My Dog Thinks I’m a Genius” and then paint pottery based on the story.

Keep the piece forever! Super fun event for your family.

Star Gazing Time: 6:30pm - 9:30pm Location: Meadow View Gardens http://www.meadowview.com Come join the Miami Valley Astronomical Society to explore the universe from our backyard.

Bring the whole family!

FRIDAY | 13

Disney’s Aladdin Jr. Time: 7:00pm Location: Town Hall Theatre www.washingtontwp.org Hitch a ride on a magic carpet ride and let the fun begin!

Salamanders!

Salamanders!

Time: 10:00am - 11:30am Location: Hills & Dales MetroPark: Shelter: Paw Paw www.metroparks.org Join Miss Jen for a story about a boy who discovers a salamander and learns about their magical connections with the forest.

After reading the story, we’ll join a naturalist and go on our own salamander expedition in search

of the red-backed salamander and other creatures of the Paw Paw Forest. Ages two to six years old.

SATURDAY | 14

Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day Irish Ceili Time: 6:00pm Location: Polish Club Price: $10 for adults/ $7 for youth 12 and under www.celticacademy.com Presented by Celtic Academy of Irish Dance- come out to enjoy an evening of dance.

Fun to learn and suitable for all ages, dancers and non dancers alike will be led through the steps to learn new dances.

SUNDAY | 15 Discover the Dinosaurs Location: The Dayton Convention Center Price: $12 www.discoverthedinosaurs.com Over 60 replica dinosaurs, dino dig, dino theater, scavenger hunt, rides, inflatables, face painting mini golf and more!

TUESDAY | 17 Milk Does the Body Good

Time: 1:00pm - 2:30 pm Location: Possum Creek MetroPark: Possum Creek Education Building www.metroparks.org Learn where milk comes from and how we use it in our homes. Also learn about milk’s nutritional value and healthy alternatives to milk.

THURSDAY | 19 Dayton Children’s Car Seat Check Time: 10:00am - 1:00pm Location: Evenflo www.childrensdayton.org

Help keep your child riding safely.

Have your car seat or booster chair inspected by a certified child passenger safety technician.

FRIDAY | 20

and adults with disabilities at United Rehabilitation Services.

More than 15,000 rubber ducks are dropped by crane for a race down the Great Miami River.

Taste of Miami Valley

Princess Party

Time: 5:00-11:00 pm Location: RiverScape Metro Park Price: $3/Food Ticket www.dineoutdayton.com Miami Valley restaurants are serving delicious food at this year’s Taste of Miami Valley!

Sample portions of signature dishes from over 25 restaurants and enjoy performances by local bands including Spungewurthy!

Time: 10:30am - 12:30pm Location: Jumpy’s Fun Zone Price: $20 www.jumpysfunzone.com Princesses will have make up, games, crafts, all things Princess!

One price includes all of this plus one slice of pizza and soda. Must pre-register ahead of time by emailing lori@jumpysfunzone.com.

SATURDAY | 21 Dayton Women’s Fair Time: 10:00am - 5:00pm Location: Dayton Airport Expo Center http://www.daytonwomensfair. com A celebration of everything women! Shop till you dropbuy from local and regional merchants, get financial advice, taste samples, cookie classes, fashion shows and more.

URS Rubber Duck Regatta Time: 3:30pm - 5:30pm Location: RiverScape Metro Park www.ursdayton.org The 10th Annual Rubber Duck Regatta supports local children

TUESDAY | 24 Prairie Adventure

Time: 9:00am - 10:00am Location: Cox Arboretum MetroPark: Huffman Gallery www.metroparks.com Grab your sun hat and get ready to explore the prairie. See if you can find coneflowers and sunflowers.

How big is big blue stem? We’ll also discover which butterflies and birds make their home in the prairie. Up to three years old.

THURSDAY | 26 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus- Dragons!

Time: 7:00pm Location: Ervin J. Nutter Center Price: $15-$70 price range www.nuttercenter.com

SATURDAY | 28

Myth and majesty will share the arena (Nutter Center) at The Greatest Show on Earth!

It’s a must see family event.

Voyage on the Parkway

Hiding in my Shell Time: 10:00am- 11:00am Location: Eastwood MetroPark: Last Parking Lot www.metroparks.com Stick your neck out for turtles as we celebrate their lives!

Observe a live turtle, and take a hike in the park and search for turtles while exploring their habitat. Three to five years old.

FRIDAY | 27

Tipp City Mum Festival Time: 5:00pm - 10:00pm Location: Tipp City Park http://www.tippcitymumfestival. org Parade, arts, crafts, great food, live entertainment all weekend long. Theme this year is “How the west was mum’d.”

Time: 11:00am - 4:00pm Location: Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark www.metroparks.com The event features hands-on activities for parents and their young children based on important skills children should develop in preparation for a successful start to kindergarten. These fun activities are based on the AWEsome Moments principle that encourages talking with your child and asking questions. Over 10 community partners will be hosting the activities, including Dayton Metro Library, K12 Art Gallery, United Way, Fiver Rivers MetroParks, Boonshoft, and others. There will be live music, art activities, free giveaways, and food available for purchase. Kids will love riding the RTA Trolley between Wegerzyn and the Boonshoft!

SUNDAY | 29 Kids Night In Time: 6:00pm - 10:00pm Location: Decoy Art Studio Price: $20 per student, $18 with sibling http://www.decoy-art.com Perfect date night as the kids stay in at Decoy Studio creating, imagining and having a good ‘ole time meeting new friends. Includes all materials and pizza from Beavercreek Pizza Dive. Grades K-6

Kettering Health Network’s Baby Fair Time: 2:00pm - 4:00pm Location: Kettering Medical Center Opportunity for families to talk to OBs, get samples, and tour the facility.

FOR MORE FUN IDEAs, VISIT

DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM At Dayton 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.

SEPTEMBER 2013 [ dayton parent | premiere issue ] 33

ongoing events African Safari Corn Maze Occuring every Friday, Saturday, & Sunday through September Time: 12:00pm - 6:00pm Location: Idle-Hour Ranch http://idle-hourranch.com Experience a challenging and educational scavenger hunt with 22 game stations within a brand new corn maze.

Lunchtime Entertainment @ Courthouse Square Occuring every Weekday through September 20 Time: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Location: Courthouse Square Free lunchtime entertainment on most weekdays all summer long on Courthouse Square in downtown Dayton. Plus, food trucks and vendors, games and activities, outdoor seating, and more.

Day Out with Thomas September 6 - September 15 Time: 10:00am - 3:00pm Location: LM&M Railroad http://lebanonrr.com/dowt.html Train ride with a full size Thomas the Tank Engine™ Meeting Sir Topham Hatt Storytelling, Live Music, Build with Mega Bloks® and Much More!

$5 Tuesdays at Cinemark Occuring every Tuesday Location: Rave Cinemas- Dayton South Price: $5.00 www.cinemark.com Half off the general admission price.

Mom and Me Day

Cosmic Bowling

Occuring every Tuesday Time: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Location: CozyMelts www.cozymelts.com Every Tuesday at CozyMelts is Mom/Dad and Me Day. When the parent paints their own pottery piece, the child’s studio fee is free.

Occuring every Friday Time: 9:30 PM - 2:00 AM Location: Poelking Lanes -Woodman, Marion and Wilmington Pike www.poelkingbowling.com Lights, music and a lot of fun!

3 person minimum, 2 hours of bowling, shoes included.

$5 Wednesdays at Cinemark

Cowvin’s Corny Maze

Occuring every Wednesday Location: Rave Cinemas- The Greene Price: $5.00 www.cinemark.com Half off the general admission price.

Family Leap Night Occuring every Wednesday Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm Location: LeapFrogs Party & Play Center http://www.leapfrogsplay.com Family Leap Night every Wednesday.

Family Dinner Night Occuring every Thursday Time: 4:00pm - 8:00pm Location: Earth Fare www.earthfare.com Earth Fare is dedicated to providing families with affordable healthy alternatives to their conventional staples. That’s why every Thursday from 4-8pm Kid’s Eat FREE at Earth Fare with the purchase of an adult meal, valued at $5 or more.

Occuring every Saturday & Sunday Through October Time: 11:00am - 6:00pm Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy http://youngsdairy.com Cowvin, the baby of the Cow Family, has created a family fun maze at Young’s Jersey Dairy.

The maze is created from over 150,000 square feet (more than 3-D acres) of cornfield and has over one mile of paths.

Ohio Renaissance Festival Occurring Every Saturday & Sunday Times: 10:30am - 6:00pm Location: 10542 E State Route 73, Waynesville, OH 45068 http://www.renfestival.com 11 stages of continuous entertainment, 7 food/beverage buildings, 135 craft and art shops and so much more.

Step back in time and enjoy a day out with the family.

Pony Rides at Carriage Hill Farm Occuring Saturdays Time: 12:00pm - 3:30pm Location: Carriage Hill Farm Price: $5.00 per child Hand-led pony rides, for youngsters

SEPTEMBER

ages 2 - 8, are offered on Saturdays through October from 12:00 noon until 3:30 pm. Reservations are not required. Don’t forget your camera!

A-MAiZE-ing Fall Fun Days Occurring Every Saturday & Sunday beginning September 21 Times: Saturdays 1:00pm - 9:00pm, Sundays 1:00 - 5:00pm Location: Meadow View Growers Price: $9 (ages 12+), $7 (ages 4-11), or free for children 3 and under. http://www.meadowview.com Experience wholesome family fun in New Carlisle at Meadow View’s Fall Fun Days Attractions include: 6 Acre Corn MAiZE, Zip Line, Tube Slide, Camp Fire, Mini Maze, Rocking Horses, Teeter Totter, Black Mamba Swing, Hop-A-Long Rodeo Ponies, Strawllyball, Farm Animals, Photo Opportunities, Concession Stand, Grand Prix Pedal Karts.

Big Bad Bounce Shirt Sunday Occuring Every Sunday Times: 12:00pm - 10:00pm Location: Big Bad Bounce- located within Scene 75 Price: Free if you have a shirt www.bigbadbounce.com If you already have a Big Bad Bounce shirt or purchase one ($13), wear it on the last Sunday of each month for a free one hour admission to Open Bounce! (no staff shirts)

For MORE fun ideas, visit daytonparentmagazine.com 34 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

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