September 2015 | Cincinnati Parent by Midwest Parenting Publications

Cincinnati

PARENT BECOMING A FOSTER PARENT

S E P T E M B E R 2015 // FREE

Serving Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky Parents

FIRST STEPS TO CONSIDER IN THIS LIFECHANGING ROLE

paying for

private school funding options may be more accessible than you think

PRIVATE SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY GUIDE

FALL BREAK FUN IDEAS TO MAKE THIS VACATION THE BEST YET

IN EVERY ISSUE

CONTENTS S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5 // C I N C I N N A T I P A R E N T . C O M

C O M M E N TA R Y & PA R E N T I N G

FOOTNOTES: THOUGHTS FROM THE MARGINS OF A MOM’S LIFE A cure for stroller nostalgia

A DAD INFLUENCE

The “Dad Bod”

ASK THE TEACHER New school year exhaustion, speech anxiety, encouraging editing

A RO UN D TOWN

BLUEGRASS FOR BABIES An afternoon of music and fun supporting a great cause!

FA M I LY H E A LT H

INFLUENZA AND PNEUMONIA A combination not to be taken lightly

GROW I N G H E A LT H Y FAMILIES

16 24

WHEN A PARENT REMARRIES

FALL BREAK FUN

BECOMING A FOSTER PARENT

PAYING FOR PRIVATE SCHOOL Tuition assistance and scholarship opportunities may be more accessible than you think

Helping kids adjust to the changes in your family

Ideas to make this vacation the best yet

First steps to consider in this life-changing role

OVERWEIGHT AND ALONE When only one child in a family struggles with weight

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // SEPTEMBER 2015

HOME ALONE When can kids be safely left home by themselves?

IN THIS ISSUE

IN EVERY ISSUE

EDITOR’S NOTE

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

ONLINE BUZZ

RESOURCES & CALENDARS

PRIVATE SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY GUIDE

PRESCHOOL & EDUCATION GUIDE

ARTS & ENRICHMENT GUIDE

DAILY EVENTS

ONGOING EVENTS

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

FUN & WACKY CALENDAR

EDITOR'S NOTE PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2015 Silver Award Winner General Excellence Awards Competition

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2015 Silver Award Winner Editorial Awards Competition

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2015 Silver Award Winner Design Awards Competition

MEET THE STAFF Publisher Mary Wynne Cox • mary@cincinnatiparent.com EDITOR Susan Bryant • susan@cincinnatiparent.com ADVERTISING // CREATI V E D I R E C TO R Katie Clark • katie@cincinnatiparent.com ACCO UNT EXEC UT I V E S Charity Kirtley • charity@cincinnatiparent.com Katy Mark • katy@cincinnatiparent.com Melissa Wittenbaum • melissa@cincinnatiparent.com A dvertising Coordinator Karen Ring • karen@cincinnatiparent.com

Back in the Groove

hew! Are you feeling the sense of welcome routine that comes in September once the back to school chaos is over and your family starts finding their familiar pattern again? Each day my kids remember to pack the homework they worked so hard on the night before and make it to the bus on time seems like a small victory. (And if the question “How was your day?” gets a paragraph description instead of a one word answer, I give us all bonus points!) Hopefully your school year is off to a great start. A child’s school life plays such a critical role in both their academic and personal development – which makes finding the right environment where your student can thrive such an important choice. We’re lucky in our area to have a wealth of public, private, homeschool and even online educational options. In this issue we’ve focused on one avenue to consider: private schools. If this is a choice you’re curious about, check out our Private School Philosophy Guide for a listing of various private schools in the Cincinnati area with a brief explanation of their guiding philosophies. Also, be sure to read our article on Paying for Private School to get an understanding of what financial aid opportunities are available – it’s probably more than you think.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // SEPTEMBER 2015

COMMUNITY Outreach // Social Media Sarah McCosham • sarah@cincinnatiparent.com

What else is great about September? It marks the beginning of fall, of course! If you’re like many people, this is your favorite time of year. Who doesn’t love that crisp autumn air, a sticky caramel apple, the beautiful foliage …the return of the pumpkin spice latte (does anybody else need these as much as I do?) There’s no shortage of things to do this season. You’ve probably got some time off of school coming up – check out our ideas for fall festivities, getaways and kids’ activities in Fall Break Fun. There’s so much more in this issue, I hope you’ll keep flipping! Becoming a Foster Parent gives folks who may be considering this valuable role the basics on starting the process. Overweight and Alone discusses how to help a child who is struggling with a weight issue. And finally, When a Parent Remarries provides some helpful advice to families in the midst of this transition. Not seeing an article that speaks to you? Let us know! We’d love to hear your ideas for upcoming issues. As always, thanks for picking up a copy of Cincinnati Parent – we wish you and your family the happiest of Septembers!

EDITOR

WEB EDITO R Wendy Cox • wendy@cincinnatiparent.com GR APHICS ASSIS TA N T Maria Tancredi • maria@cincinnatiparent.com INTERN Meg Wynne • meg@cincinnatiparent.com Business Manager // Accounting Roxanne Burns • roxanne@cincinnatiparent.com CONTRIB UTING W R I T E R S Michelle Shirk, Sarah Bricker-Hunt, Summer Daily, Emma Hostetter, Lauren Lawson, Pete Gilbert, Deb Krupowicz, Kelly Blewett, Sarah Painer of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital CALENDAR OF EV E N T S calendar@cincinnatiparent.com Contact Us 9435 Waterstone Blvd., Ste. 140, Cincinnati, OH 45249 P: (513) 444-2015 • F: (513) 444-2099

COPYRIGHT Cincinnati Parent Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2015 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.

SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

IN EVERY ISSUE

COMMUNITY

SPOTLIGHT

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN SEPTEMBER

Get into the arts This year marks the 10th anniversary of FallFair Arts Festival, an annual event that showcases over 70 local and regional artists. On September 19, Mason’s Cottell Park will become a bazaar featuring beautiful ceramics, sculpture, paintings, jewelry, wood, fiber and much more! This event is free and has something for everyone, including performing artists throughout the day and a children’s activity tent to create something special. www.the-arts-alliance.org/fallfair-arts-festival/

Here ye, here ye: It’s Ren Fest time! Travel back in time during the Ohio Renaissance Festival, which takes place Saturdays and Sundays (and Labor Day Monday) from September 5 – October 25. Visitors will be treated to authentic Renaissance entertainment, including full-armored jousting just the way it was done over 400 years ago. Queen Elizabeth I presides over the festivities as dozens of Renaissance musicians, dancers, comedians, jugglers, sword-fighters, storytellers and hundreds of costumed performers entertain patrons on 11 stages during the Festival’s nearly 100 shows daily. (And when you get hungry, be sure to grab a giant turkey “legg” or “steak on a stake.”) http://www.renfestival.com/

Bluegrass, banjos and babies Enjoy the great outdoors Great Outdoor Weekend is the largest outdoor recreation and nature education event in the U.S., offering free outdoor activities and the opportunity to sample the best outdoor recreation and nature awareness programs available in Greater Cincinnati. This year there will be more than 150 activities and programs hosted at 50 different sites across the Tri-state on September 26 and 27. Activities include marshmallow roasts, nature walks, animal encounters, star gazing, story times, crafts and lectures! All events of Great Outdoor Weekend are presented by members of Green Umbrella, a regional sustainability alliance. www.greatoutdoorweekend.org/

On Saturday, September 19, Bluegrass for Babies presented by the Healthy Roots Foundation, returns to Sawyer Point from 3 - 9 pm. The concert will feature performances by Comet Bluegrass All-Stars and Hickory Robot, along with a headline show by the nationally noted bluegrass band Cabinet and a special children’s performance by Jennifer Ellis Music. Interactive games and activities for kids will also be available, along with food by Green BEAN Delivery, Eli’s Barbeque, Mazunte and Dewey’s Pizza. All proceeds for Bluegrass for Babies help support children’s causes through Cradle Cincinnati and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center for the Prevention of Preterm Birth. Adult tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the gate; children 12 and under are free. www.bluegrassforbabies.com

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Grab your lederhosen!

Say a rockin’ goodbye to summer

Given Cincinnati’s rich German roots, it’s no surprise that the Queen City is home to the largest Oktoberfest in the country. Every year, more than half a million people converge upon a six-block area around Fountain Square to eat, sing, mingle, listen to polka and perform the Chicken Dance! Oktoberfest features seven stages showcasing continuous live German music and more than 30 food vendors serving over 200 different dishes. Mark your calendars for September 18-20! http://www.oktoberfestzinzinnati.com/

The annual Western & Southern/WEBN Fireworks is the only way to say goodbye to summer here in Cincinnati. On September 6, head to one of the various viewing areas along the Cincinnati/Newport/Covington Riverfront – and be sure to bring a radio for WEBN’s (channel 102.7 FM) synchronized soundtrack. Fireworks start at 9:05 pm, and parking is available on the street, in surface lots and in parking garages throughout downtown Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. http://www.webn.com/features/western-southern- webn-fireworks-pres-by-964/

Got love? Become a foster parent Imagine not having a place to call home, a family to love and parents who believe in you. Unfortunately, that is exactly where too many children and teens find themselves. As a foster parent YOU can make a difference by becoming the first person to have faith in them, the first person to care where they are, the first person to believe in what they can become. If you have the desire to make a difference, call Liz at The Bair Foundation at (513) 771-1606. http://www.bair.org/

Are you amazing? If you’ve ever watched an episode of The Amazing Race and thought, “I could do that!” then The Great Amazing Race is the event for you! The Great Amazing Race is a national, family-friendly competition for two-person teams of all ages. Modeled after the TV show, teams race to complete a one-mile course with fun outdoor obstacles and challenges that require partners to work together. On September 5, The Great Amazing Race comes to Hopewell Park in West Chester, giving local families an opportunity to compete and qualify for the championship race and a chance to win $1,500! http://www.greatamazingrace1.info/ cincinnati.html

Comics, comics, comics The Cincinnati Comic Expo is a comic book lover’s paradise. Featuring the latest and greatest in comics, graphic novels, artwork, games, toys, movies and television, this Expo is a must for any follower of the genre – or fans of popular culture! This year’s Comic Expo takes place September 18-20 at the Duke Energy Convention Center and features Sean Astin from Lord of the Rings, Austin St. John and David Yost of the ‘90’s hit TV show Power Rangers, and Frozen’s Eve Bella and Livvy Stubenrauch. http://cincinnaticomicexpo.com/

SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

IN EVERY ISSUE

SEPTEMBER’S

ONLINE

BUZZ

facebook & weekly e-newsletter contests

FACEBOOK TALK WE ASKED:

Should kids get participation trophies?

Win Tickets to the Ohio Renaissance Festival

YOU SAID:

No, they should not. You should get a trophy for winning something. Otherwise, where is the drive to succeed? If everybody is going to get a trophy anyway… why bother to do your best? Yes… this IS what is wrong with kids today. – Laura H.

A high five and a sticker go a long way... – Lisa H.

Win Tickets to the Cincinnati Children’s Theatre’s The Little Mermaid JR

Maybe a certificate for participating or a ribbon, but giving all the kids trophies defeats the purpose. – Georgina O. Let’s let the sport be its own reward. Intrinsic motivation, not external reward. – Emily K. Adult participants in races get “finisher medals.” Why not just do that for kids? It is an accomplishment for young kids to even put themselves out there and participate. Once they get a couple of finisher medals, they might start eyeing the winners’ trophies and up their game. – Diane A.

Win a $100 Gift Card to Green Bean Delivery

Let the winners get much bigger trophies. Why does this have to be all or nothing? – Vince G.

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Win Tickets to Bluegrass for Babies

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SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

COM M E N TA RY & PA R E N T I N G

Footnotes Thoughts from the margins of a mom’s life

A cure for stroller nostalgia Kelly Blewett

As a mother of toddlers, I used to relish the packing required for every trip: diaper bags, extra outfits, sandwiches cut into pieces and tucked inside plastic boxes, sunscreen, hats, sippy cups and stashes of emergency pacifiers. I loved my double stroller and its many compartments, including a Velcro tuckaway for my car keys and a cup holder for my coffee. It was an aspiring-to-beorganized mother’s dream, perfect for a trip to the zoo or museum, the playground or a splash pad. Once that stroller was filled, we

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were ready to go. It was as though we had packed up a spacecraft and could sustain ourselves for weeks on the provisions. I liked to roll the stroller along and occasionally duck down and murmur to my children. See the elephant? Want to get out and go on the slide? Now my oldest toddler is a muscular five year old, a little boy with rubber-soled sandals wrapped around his ever-moving feet. His little sister trails behind like a puppy. Trips to the zoo involve a lot of exercise on everyone’s part – including my vocal cords, as I constantly call, Wait for me! Stay where I can see you! You can understand why this turn of events left me longing for my stroller, with its compartments that held every item in place, including my children. I wanted to feel as though I could push my little world before me. I had serious stroller nostalgia.

And so, last week, I attempted to bring back the stroller. I broke into a sweat as I hauled it from the basement, but that was just a hint of what was to come. What I hadn’t planned on, in my daydreaming about the compartments and the quietly contained children, was the sheer weight of the stroller with two kids inside and the way I’d have to bend my body to a nearly perpendicular position in order to drive that stroller around the zoo. Two hills later, my stroller nostalgia was gone. Instead, as I gulped the ice water from the water bottle conveniently stored in the cup holder before me, I started fantasizing about a really great backpack, with lots of zippered pockets. I know I’ll need those pockets for all the things I now require to take my children to the zoo, including the throat lozenges I’ll want after calling for them to wait up.

COMMEN TA RY & PA R E N T I N G

A Dad Influence The “Dad Bod”

Pete Gilbert

Ever heard of it? It’s a thing, and now science has proven it. Here’s the study in a nutshell: 10,000 men were studied over a 20 year period, the men who had children gained weight and the men that didn’t lost weight. What is it about having kids that caused these guys to gain weight? I have a few ideas.

Scenario #1 Dad makes lunch for himself and the kids. What is he supposed to do with all the leftover mac and cheese and chicken fingers on his children’s plates? Eat them of course. Scenario #2 Since the kids didn’t eat all their lunch (see above) they are hungry for an afternoon snack. Dad’s not particularly hungry, but while getting the peanut butter and crackers ready, he samples a few too.

Scenario #3 A child brings home a great report card, which is cause for a celebratory ice cream. Would you go to an ice cream shop and not get something for yourself too? That’s just plain crazy.

Scenario #4 The kids are arguing. They keep getting up after being put to bed. The house is a disaster. Each one of these stressors is a trip to the kitchen for a handful of chips, a piece of chocolate from that hiding place or a cold beer from the fridge. This can easily add a few hundred extra calories each day. It’s not hard to see how a dad puts on a few extra pounds! In fact, when I look at this study again it’s amazing to me that these fathers ONLY gained an average of 4.4 pounds. I think we should be celebrating these guys! So, if you see a dad sporting his slightly overweight “dad bod” give him a pat on his back (it’s less squishy than his stomach) and congratulate him on his incredible physique.

For links to all my blog posts please stop by my Facebook page at Facebook.com/adadinfluence and check out my all new page on the Cincinnati Parent web site (formerly True Confessions of a Stay at Home Dad).

SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

ARO UN D TOWN

Bluegrass For Babies Promising an afternoon of music and fun while supporting a great cause Anne Schneider, Healthy Roots Foundation

Imagine a day spent outdoors with friends and family while children play and you listen to bluegrass music, sip local craft beer and munch on food from favorite local restaurants. You can get all that and more at the Healthy Roots Foundation’s Bluegrass for Babies concert on September 19 at Sawyer Point. Even better, the family-friendly concert is an official Giving Hope fundraiser for Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Since the Bluegrass for Babies concerts began in 2009, the Healthy Roots Foundation has raised nearly $130,000 for the Cincinnati Children’s Perinatal Institute and its research at the Center for the Prevention of Preterm Birth (CPPB). We’re proud to partner again with the CPPB to help fund an innovative pilot study to understand the effects of air and ground pollution on pregnancy outcomes. As part of the study, Dr. Louis Muglia and his team will provide personal monitors for pregnant women that collect unique exposure data. That means for the first time ever, we will have specific information on environmental impacts on increased risk for preterm and stillbirth. It is their hope that

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this research will teach us specific ways we can help avoid early birth. My passion for this research is personal. Our son was born with a life-threatening birth defect and spent a month in the NICU at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. We started the Bluegrass for Babies concerts as a way to benefit children’s health in Cincinnati, and the Healthy Roots Foundation grew from there. This is the seventh year for Bluegrass for Babies and it has grown tremendously, from bands in our backyard with friends, to a bluegrass concert at Sawyer Point attended by thousands – all while focusing on our mission to support Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center.

favorite Jennifer Ellis. Pennsylvania band Cabinet will join the lineup as this year’s headliner. Adding to the fun, we’ll have food from Mazunte, Eli’s BBQ, Dewey’s and Green BEAN Delivery, plenty of local craft beer options and, of course, plenty of fun activities for your entire family.

The day is a chance to bring family and friends together for great music, good fun and an important cause. Learn more about Bluegrass for Babies and purchase tickets at www.bluegrassforbabies.com.

This year promises to be our best yet with performances by local bluegrass bands Hickory Robot and the Comet Bluegrass All-Stars along with children’s music

*Photo Credit: Joe Simon

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paying for

private school

Tuition assistance and schol arship opportunities may be more accessible than you think Michelle Shirk

If you’ve ever thought about having your child attend private school, but ruled it out based on cost, you may be surprised to learn that academic institutions often work very hard to make attending their school financially possible for many families. In fact, parents may be unaware of the various avenues to financial aid available to them. Here you’ll find answers to some common questions about funding a private education.

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Q. Why should my family consider private school?

A. School choice “is one of the most important decisions parents can make for their child,” says Janet S. Hill, Director of Admission and Financial Aid for the Seven Hills School. When choosing a private school, parents will want to consider class size, curriculum, extracurricular offerings and various other factors. Casey Reed, Director of Children’s Meeting House Montessori School says that often parents choose a private school because they are looking for a less traditional approach to their child’s education.

Q. How far in advance should I start looking into financial assistance?

A. “The financial aid season really mirrors the admissions season,” says Hill. She encourages families considering her school to submit their tuition assistance requests between late November and January 31. Most financial aid decisions at Seven Hills are made in late January or early February. Be aware that in the world of financial assistance, the early bird often gets the worm. Applying early in the process is preferable.

Q. What scholarships and financial assistance programs exist to help cover the cost of a private education?

A. Private schools themselves provide the bulk of the available financial aid dollars, says Hill. The Seven Hills School, for example, provides more than three million dollars annually in a combination of need-based financial assistance and merit-based scholarships. Currently, about 35% of the school’s families receive some form of assistance. Children’s Meeting House Montessori School also sets aside a portion of its budget to provide need-based assistance to new and current families, says Reed.

*Continued on page 18 SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

Some students may also be able to take advantage of Ohio’s EdChoice Scholarship program. This program provides scholarships to students who would otherwise attend low performing schools or who meet specific income criteria. These scholarships can then be used toward tuition at participating private schools. To find out complete details on the program, visit http://education.ohio. gov/Topics/Other-Resources/ Scholarships. This website also details two other state-level opportunities available to children with special learning challenges – the Autism Scholarship Program and the Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship Program. Families looking for additional funding options sometimes talk to their employers, churches and civic associations for assistance, says Hill.

She also points parents to www.finaid.org for a list of K-12 scholarship opportunities.

Q. What steps should I take to investigate which funding options may be available to my family?

A. “[A family’s] first order of business really needs to be to seek and identify schools that best fit their child’s educational path,” says Hill. After all, if a

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particular school isn’t a good choice for the student, its financial aid package isirrelevant. Once you’ve narrowed your search, contact the admissions or financial aid office of the school you are considering. The staff there should be able to provide complete information about their particular school’s procedures and deadlines, says Hill. “I think it’s really important for parents to never assume that what’s true for one school is going to be true for all.” If you would like outside help, Hill recommends the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) as a resource. Visit www.sssbynais.org to find information about applying for tuition assistance, answers to frequently asked questions and other topics.

Q. Is there anything else I should know about covering the cost of a private education?

A. Hill urges parents not to let their initial “sticker shock” prevent them from pursuing a particular school. “Don’t let the tuition keep you away from applying. You’re never going to know unless you try.”

Choosing the right educational environment for your child can mean the difference between having a student who simply endures school to one who really thrives there. If you’re considering a private school for your child, our area has many outstanding possibilities to choose from. To help in your search, Cincinnati Parent asked several local private schools to provide a brief description of their educational philosophy to help parents find the best match for their student.

Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy CHCA is a vibrant, multidenominational, college preparatory school serving students age 3 through grade 12. Expert Christian teachers inspire students to discover, develop, and flourish in their one-of-a-kind gifts. This past year, 41% of the senior class received AP scholar recognition, over 75% of students participated in athletics and/or fine arts, and seniors averaged 200-250 service hours per student. CHCA graduates are fully prepared to succeed in college and beyond, achieving significant impact and influence in our world.

Elder High School

Archbishop McNicholas High School Archbishop McNicholas High School promotes a Christ-centered, Catholic community that embraces each student spiritually, intellectually, morally, and physically. We provide a safe, nurturing, creative, and challenging campus where individuals will grow in knowledge and faith. We equip our students with opportunities and experiences that will enable them to achieve excellence, live out gospel values, and attain full stature in Christ.

Bethany School Bethany School is an Episcopal Day School, serving girls and boys from Kindergarten through eighth grade. The school prides itself on being one of the most religiously and ethnically diverse schools in the Greater Cincinnati

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metropolitan area. Bethany’s goal is to encourage students to reach their fullest potential, cultivate a positive self-concept, and make a significant contri-bution to society. The Christian environment, beautiful grounds, and warm, friendly environment make it unique and special.

Cincinnati Country Day School Country Day is a co-educational, college-preparatory school serving students from 18-months through grade 12. Since 1926, we’ve been focused on providing innovative preparation to our students, so they are ready to achieve success in college and in life. Rigorous PREPARATION. JOYFUL environment. Students who find SUCCESS in any world.

Elder is a place for young men from all communities to grow, not only intellectually, but also physically, spiritually, culturally and socially. We are a comprehensive, college-prep Catholic high school that offers a place for all students to express their individuality and make their high school experience unique. Students will find a fulfilling atmosphere of rigorous academics, strong athletics, a myriad extra-curriculars, and faith-enhancing community outreach opportunities.

Guardian Angels School Guardian Angels School was named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence in 2007 and continues to lead the way in education by providing programs and employing teaching strategies that are engaging and challenging for all students. Every day we foster the development of the whole child in a value-enriched environment.

Liberty Bible Academy Liberty Bible Academy, founded in 1984, is a non-denominational, Christ-centered, preschool to high school. Small class sizes, individualized attention, a caring, structured environment, and latest technology allow students to achieve in top 10-15% nationally. LBA is one of the highest-performing, mostaffordable, ethnically-diverse, and spiritually rich-programs in the area. Discovery program provides support for struggling learners.

Mount Notre Dame Mount Notre Dameâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vibrant learning community prepares young women to succeed in all areas of their lives. With an outstanding academic program offering 150 courses, including 19 AP courses and 24 Honors classes, students succeed at the highest level. MND graduates are empowered young women ready to transform the world!

Rockwern Academy Rockwern Academy is a premiere Jewish day school focused on academic excellence since 1952. Rockwern Academy, formerly known as Yavneh Day School, is a community of learners where students, families and teachers join together to ensure that every individual child is free to rise to challenges and soar, academically and personally. Rockwern Academy has created a culture of excellence, reflected by our teachers, programs, curriculum and our commitment to fostering a love of Jewish life and learning.

Saint Ursula Academy Saint Ursula Academy is a top high school choice for students from more than 90 grade schools across Greater Cincinnati! Saint Ursula nurtures each young woman to become a confident leader who is ready to achieve her own goals and dreams. Students develop great friendships, work with talented teachers, and pursue their personal interests in the more than 50 clubs, student service organizations and 12 athletic programs. Saint Ursula is committed to educating its students to become women of faith, integrity and courage committed to building a better world.

*Continued on page 22

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Seven Hills School The Seven Hills School is committed to creating and fostering a sense of community and strong partnerships among our parents, students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Embracing our mission statement, Seven Hills engages hearts and minds, challenging students to develop their unique capacities and preparing each for a meaningful role in a rapidly changing world.

St. Ursula Villa St. Ursula Villa nurtures confident, successful learners - Toddler through Junior High - who lead with respect and thrive in a culture of academic achievement, service to others, spiritual formation, and personal growth. Dedicated, dynamic teachers develop each child’s unique potential through individualized instruction and rigorous curriculum in small classes on an extraordinary historic campus.

The Cincinnati Waldorf School As the only Waldorf school in Cincinnati, our dedicated teachers have been inspiring and educating students for over 40 years utilizing the unique Waldorf pedagogy. Waldorf curriculum is developmentally appropriate, experiential, and inspires life-long learning in each of our students. Give your child the life-long gift of a Waldorf education!

The Kinder Garden Schools: Blue Ash and West Chester Together with interaction of child, staff and family, we develop the complete child. In our Kinder Garden, we provide formative encouragement and knowledge with hands-on staff taking a personal interest in family and holistic education decisions for the child. The Kinder Garden School is devoted to growing a child’s wish to flourish and learn by cultivating curiosity and problemsolving proficiency in a full supportive, fertile, fun setting. ENLIGHTENMENT IS OUR MISSION.

The Summit Country Day School The area’s only Catholic, independent, coeducational, college preparatory school, serving students age 2-Gr. 12. Values are fostered while developing students spiritually, academically, physically, socially, and artistically. The campus wide character program instills traits across each grade level. Emphasis on writing and fine arts; extracurricular and athletic activities round out the program. New: Music and Movement class for children under 2. Hot button: Upper School- Science Institute. 22

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remarries W H E N A PA R E N T

H e l p i ng k i ds a d j us t t o t h e c h a ng e s i n you r fa m i ly Summer Daily

amily dynamics are complex in situations of divorce and remarriage. Combining households, kids and possibly different parenting styles can leave everyone involved feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Although you and your new spouse feel connected and comfortable with each other, it can take some time before all of your children feel the same way. What can you do to help your families gel together? We spoke with Sarah Greenwell, a psychologist at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, for her suggestions on helping kids through this complicated period.

Laying the groundwork “Introducing your child to someone you’re getting remarried to is actually a process,” says Greenwell. “Introduce the significant other way before discussions about remarriage. That introduction process should take months. The child should know the person fairly well.” Hiding the fact that you are dating from your children, or that you would like to eventually remarry will only damage the trust you have with each other.

Address their fears Having a new step parent and possibly step siblings is a major upheaval in your family’s 24

Defining your partner’s role

dynamic – a change that can cause considerable anxiety. “Kids want to know that they’re safe,” says Greenwell. “They want to know that they’re going to be supported. And they want to know that their life isn’t going to change a whole lot. So when you’re talking about remarriage, what you’re really saying to a child is that your world is going to change. So what kids want to know is how much of an impact that’s going to be.” Really listening to your children’s concerns and reassuring them that they won’t be “losing” you to your new spouse will help relieve their fears.

Take their maturity level into account Adjust how you support your child depending on their developmental stage. “Young children, like infants and toddlers don’t have a lot of language, so talking extensively with them is not going to be very beneficial,” says Greenwell.

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Instead focus on keeping their daily life and routine consistent as much as possible. “It’s more about your actions as a parent than your conversations” she says. Also, be on the lookout for any regressive behavior that might indicate signs of stress. Regarding school-agers, Greenwell says this age group will have more questions. “They are still grappling with relationships and trying to understand relationships. So you need to be ready to answer their questions about love, marriage and loyalty.” In terms of adolescents, she says, “They’re more about their own lives and autonomy. So what they really want to know is – how is this going to affect my current schedule?” Teens may wonder if they will have to switch schools, make new friends, etc., so addressing these concerns will be important for them.

“I think the assumption is that the step-parent becomes a parent, and that’s not necessarily the case,” says Greenwell. “Everyone wants to know how much discipline can the step-parent [enforce]. And the reality is children comply when they are emotionally strongly attached to their parent, and a stepparent hasn’t had the years of emotional investment in this child that the biological parent has had.” Developing a bond among stepfamilies takes time, so be patient. Research suggests that it may take blended families anywhere from five to ten years to hit their stride as one unit.

See the big picture Let your child’s relationship with your spouse develop naturally and don’t force kids to try and feel connected before they are ready. In time, a closer bond may develop between everyone. Greenwell says it’s important to reassure your child that the relationship you have with them will always be there, no matter what.

Combining kids and remarriage successfully is not an overnight process. Taking it one step at a time, and getting professional help if you feel in over your head, can make each day together as a blended family better than the last.

FAMILY HEALTH // BRANDED CONTENT

Influenza and Pneumonia Combination Not to Be Taken Lightly Premier Health

Every year, millions of Americans are infected with the influenza virus. In most cases, you’ll be under the weather for a week or so, but there are times when the flu can worsen. It can weaken your immune system, making you vulnerable to other illnesses, including pneumonia. “When you are fighting the flu, your whole body shifts its energy toward fighting off the infection,” said Joshua Ordway, MD, with Franklin Family Practice, “which means it is taking soldiers away from the battle field that could be fighting off other illnesses including bacterial infections such as pneumonia.” The flu never becomes pneumonia, but your weakened immune system makes you susceptible to contracting the respiratory

illness. It’s important to know the symptoms of both illnesses so you have a better idea about what to do to care for yourself and your family. Pay attention to cough, fever and duration of any symptoms. With the flu, there may be no cough, low-grade fever and symptoms will lessen over time. Pneumonia will produce a wet cough and higher fever, with no improvement over time. Here are some tips to help prevent the flu and pneumonia: • Wash hands frequently • Stay hydrated • Get adequate sleep • Avoid others who are ill and stay home if you are sick

• Don’t smoke or drink excessive amounts of alcohol • Talk with your physician about flu and pneumonia vaccines While the flu may make you uncomfortable while you’re ill, pneumonia can result in lasting health effects. According to pulmonologist Sandeep Kapur, MD, with Premier Health Specialists, long-term lung conditions can be caused or negatively impacted by improperly-treated pneumonia. “When pneumonia is ignored or is not treated adequately,” he said, “it can cause lung tissue damage that predisposes [patients] to infections later in life.” For more information on the flu or pneumonia, or to find a primary care physician, visit: www.premierhealthnet.com/doctor.

SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

Fall Break Fun I d e a s t o m a k e t h i s va c at i o n t h e b e s t y e t Lauren Lawson

Fall break: what a great concept! Just when the weather gets crisp and the leaves burst into color, the kids get a little time off from school and families can take advantage of this wonderful time of year. Here are a few suggestions for fall festivities, quick getaways and kids’ day camps to help you make the most of the season.

Fall Festivities Bengals Game Nothing says fall quite like football. From the fanfare to the tailgating, an NFL game is a great way to spend family time together. Feel that Cincinnati pride, wear black and orange, and chow down on some home-based chili while basking in the cool, autumn air. To purchase tickets, visit www.ticket master.com.

Washington Park Kid’s Fall Fest Take advantage of the beautiful scenery in Washington Park and visit the 2015 Kid’s Fall Fest. Enjoy a free afternoon of funfilled activities, including face painting, stilt walkers, puppet shows and a pumpkin patch. This event takes place October 24 from 12 pm to 8 pm. To learn more, check out www. ohiofestivalsguide.com.

Stay-cate A mini-vacation spent right in heart of downtown Cincinnati is the perfect opportunity to explore and learn more about our historical city. Play tourist for the weekend and rent a hotel room to make fall break feel more vacation-esque. Places like the 21c Museum Hotel or the

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // SEPTEMBER 2015

Cincinnatian Hotel really capture the vibe of city life. To plan a family stay-cation, visit www.downtowncincinnati.com to learn about events, local eateries and fun festivities.

Fall Places to Go Oak Harbor Apple Festival

The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree at the Oak Harbor Apple Festival in Oak Harbor, Ohio. A short three and a half hour drive makes this family friendly festival the perfect weekend reprieve. Boasting a whopping 25,000 visitors per year, the Apple Festival has attractions and events for families of all ages. From the Grand Parade, to the kid tractor-pulling contest, Applepalooza, live bands and more, this event is sure to please everyone in your family. Mark your calendar for October 10 -11 and get the details at www.oakharborohio.net.

Malabar Farm State Park Take in the sights and sounds of fall while camping at Malabar Farm State Park in Lucas, Ohio. Pitch a tent at one of their primitive campsites complete with picnic tables, fire rings and parking pads. Hoping for more of a glam-ping adventure? Check out the local hostel, which has a cozy bed and breakfast

atmosphere. Hike the trails, join a guided farm wagon tour or spend the day at one of Malabar’s many seasonal events. Book today at www. malabarfarm.org.

Kentuck y Horse Park Located in Lexington, the Kentucky Horse Park is a wonderful place to spend a long, autumn weekend. Explore this working horse farm and learn about the world of horses at the International Museum of the Horse and the American Saddlebred Museum. The kids will love the trolley tours and pony rides too. Learn more at www.kyhorsepark.com.

Fall Camps and Activities for Kids YMCA Lumberjack Camp Round up the kids for a weekend of great outdoor exploration through the YMCA’s Lumberjack Camp. Kids can participate in a variety of activities, including zip lining, horseback riding, archery, bonfires and more. Campers and counselors bunk at Lakeview Lodge, a centrally heated cabin at Camp Ernst. Lumberjack Camp is offered two weekends in the fall, October 9 -11 and November 13 -15. Register at www.cincinnati ymca.org.

Day Before Thanksgiving Camp Fall break for the kids doesn’t always equate to fall break for mom and dad. Don’t fret, the Cincinnati Museum Center offers educational Museum Camps throughout the year, including the Day before Thanksgiving Camp. Kids will spend time exploring the three Museums, watching OMNIMAX films and learning about the inner workings of this great cultural and historical center. Visit www.cincymuseum.org to learn more.

From oil painting to fiction workshops, musical theatre classes and even private language lessons, the CCAC will keep kids busy and creative all break. To obtain a listing of the Fall 2015 classes, check out www. cliftonculturalarts.org.

There’s no shortage of fun available this fall break – ENJOY the season with your family and friends!

Clifton Cultural Arts Center Explore, imagine and create this season at the Clifton Cultural Arts Center.

SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

b ecoming a f ost er parent

First steps to consider in this Life-changing role Sarah Bricker-Hunt

The adults who open their hearts and homes to these children and become a foster family can literally change the course of a life – and possibly provide the first stable, supportive environment a child has ever had. While the path can be difficult, the outcomes can be amazing. If you’ve ever considered making this kind of a commitment, read on for some information on what this process involves.

What are the requirements? Foster parents are part of a vast, diverse community. In fact, people of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The one common link between all candidates is a true desire to make a positive difference in the life of a child.

They may also be single or cohabitating with a stable partner. Other requirements include medical and psychological screens, criminal background checks and a home inspection to ensure fire safety codes are being enforced. Foster parents must complete pre-placement and continuing training as well. Preplacement training is typically a 36-hour course in Ohio, which can often be taken on evenings and weekends. Some foster parents hope to eventually adopt children who need a permanent home. Anne Arbaugh, Clermont County Foster Care Supervisor, says that while this does happen, the goal is that hopefully a child and his parents will be able to reunite.

Ohio guidelines include:

14,000 Ohio children currently live in foster care. Foster kids are often transient, moving from temporary home to temporary home after experiencing neglect, abuse or simple bad luck. Many will age out of the foster care system before they ever find a permanent home.

• A minimum age of 21 • Financially stable • Able to pass local, state and federal background checks and complete all of the required training classes and paperwork • A homeowner or renter It’s important to note that foster parents do not necessarily need to be married or heterosexual.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // SEPTEMBER 2015

Why do foster parents do it? Robyn Bastin, Licensing Supervisor at Lighthouse Youth Services, says some people simply feel a calling to provide foster care. “They are often faith-based and feel that God has a plan for their lives and that helping children abused and neglected is part of the plan,” she explains. “They often get into fostering because their family members or friends are doing it as well.”

Bastin says the process can seem intimidating. “People are sometimes scared away from fostering because the news often portrays only the negative,” she adds. “The process to get licensed is long and intrusive. Fostering is a commitment not to be taken lightly.” Holly Schlaack, founder and executive director of Invisible Kids, a local nonprofit organization focused on addressing issues within the foster care system, says, “Foster parents cannot control anything including decisions made on a child’s behalf, when a child leaves, or what services and visitation schedules are offered. It’s hard. It takes a ton of intangibles like flexibility, patience, communication skills, family and community support and love.” Sarah Terrell, a local resident who recently became a foster parent points to a problem she didn’t anticipate: her own parenting style. “When we received our first placement, we quickly realized that the type of parenting we have done with our biological children simply didn’t work for our foster child.” However, Terrell adds that her local foster parenting community has been very supportive. “It was good to hear others in the same boat offer insights and encouragement.” Her family has decided to limit their foster placements to respite (short-term) care for now, an option many foster parents take. Ultimately, says Arbaugh, “the main reason people decide to become foster parents is to help vulnerable children in our communities who need a safe place to stay when their families are unable to care for them.”

First Steps Foster parents must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services through their county public children services agency (PCSA) or a private agency certified by ODJFS to approve and recommend foster parents. Brandy Pendleton, Director of Social Services at The Bair Foundation offers this advice: “Start contacting local licensing agencies to determine which agency you feel would be the best fit for your family. Once you have connected with an agency that you feel good about, get registered for training.”

The decision to foster is a major one. Take the time to learn about the process and evaluate if you are truly ready for the obligation it requires. If you decide to make this commitment, the impact you have on a child’s life can be tremendous – as well as your foster son or daughter’s impact on you. SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

COM M E N TA RY & PA R E N T I N G

Ask the Teacher New school year exhaustion, speech anxiety, encouraging editing Deb Krupowicz

My second grade daughter has come home from school these first few weeks absolutely exhausted. She has not run a temperature and appears healthy other than how tired she is. Is there anything I can do to help her feel better?

The single most important thing that you can do is to make sure that your daughter is getting enough rest. Ten to twelve hours of sleep each night is typically recommended for primary school aged kids. Skimping on bedtime leads to fatigue, emotional ups and downs and decreases in academic performance. If your daughter complains frequently of being tired, after school activities should be kept to a minimum and only added to her schedule gradually as her energy level increases. Pay special attention to your daughter’s nutrition. It is very important that she is getting enough calories to sustain her throughout the day, and eating breakfast is just as important as your mother said it was. Starting the day with a breakfast rich in complex carbohydrates will not only help your daughter remain alert, but will also help keep her emotionally stable and better equipped to cope with the demands of the day. Outside exercise and activity are especially important to a young child’s well-being. Encourage your daughter to play outdoors. If she is reticent to the idea, invite her to take a walk or a bike ride with you throughout the neighborhood. The combination of a good night’s sleep, sound nutrition and exercise will help increase your daughter’s stamina to do her best during the school day and also enjoy her time after school as well. 30

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // SEPTEMBER 2015

My fourth grade son complains of a stomach ache every Friday and wants to stay home. I learned from his teacher that students give presentations to the class ON FridayS and she thinks this may be causing some anxiety for him. She refuses to alter this requirement even though it is making him sick. Should I talk to the principal about it?

biggest hurdle to effective presentation for young students. By now he should be very familiar with the piece. Instruct him to look at the line or phrase to remind himself of its content and then to look up as he says the words. Suggest that he looks just above the heads of his audience.

How can I get my daughter to edit her writing? Once she finishes, she simply refuses to go back over it to check for errors.

Unless your child has an IEP or special documented anxiety considerations that his teacher is ignoring, you should not talk to the principal about changing class requirements. Learning to speak in front of others is a critical skill that will be an asset to your son’s future. Rather than try to change the requirement, you should support your child by helping him prepare ahead of time. Essential components to effective public speaking are volume, pacing and eye contact. Begin by stressing the first two components by using an excerpt from something your child is currently reading like a silly poem or a newspaper article that interests him. Have him read over the piece a few times silently, then listen as he reads it aloud. Next have him practice at “speech” level, which is two to three times louder than normal conversation. If he gives his speech from an adjacent room from where you are, he will likely do a better job of speaking loudly. He should read at a pace that is slower than ideal presentation rate because he will undoubtedly speed up when he gets nervous. If he needs a visual cue to slow down, use a highlighter to mark the place where he should slow down a bit. After presenting to you several times, begin working on his eye contact. This is often the

Use this technique a few times and then apply it to the content he is using for his presentations at school. He will be much more confident, and you will see his anxiety decrease.

Rather than have your daughter edit immediately after finishing her work, have her set it aside. After a few hours, have her read it to you aloud. Explain that whenever she has to pause and go back, her brain is signaling an error. If she reads what she thinks she wrote rather than what she actually did write, then you should take a turn as reader. Put the paper on the table where you both can see it and move your finger along as you read. She will then see where words have been left out or used incorrectly. Make checking her punctuation a little more fun by having her highlight it with colored pencils. Use green to show the capital letter at the start of a sentence and red for the end mark. Have her underline commonly confused homonyms like its/it’s and their/there/they’re to check for proper usage in the context of her sentence. Suggest that she create a color chart to use each time for her grammar check. By having her take these consistent steps as part of her editing routine, she’ll find that soon she will be making less and less errors. A sk the T eacher is written by Deb Krupowicz, a

mother of four who holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Deb has over twenty years of experience teaching preschool, elementary and middle school students. Please send your questions to her at asktheteacher@cincinnatiparent.com.

preschool and

education guide [CHARTER] Hori zon S cience Academy C incinnati HSA-Cincy: building the skills students need to reach new heights and challenging students to achieve their goals and beyond through local, state, and national academic competitions. Offering high-quality, college-prep, STEM education. Hours of Operation are from 7:30am to 2:30pm. 1055 Laidlaw Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45237, Phone: (513) 242 0099, Email: info@horizoncincy.org, www.horizoncincy.org, Grades: K-8th

[CHILDCaRE // PRESCHOOL] Chai Tots E arly 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, Phone: (513)234-0600, www.ChaiTots.com, Ages/Grades: Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Kindergarten (6 weeks-6 years), Enrollment: 60

CH I LD RE N I NC . Early Education and Care (including Montessori and traditional curriculum) offered at multiple sites throughout Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati. Nationally accredited and multi-STAR quality rated. Generous tuition assistance is available for qualifying families based on income and family size. Phone: (859) 431-2075, www.childreninc.org, Grades: Infant through 12 years

T he Compass S chool Ages 6 weeks-6 years plus after school & summer camp up to age 12. Offering outstanding ReggioInspired full and part-time Infant, Toddler, Two’s, and Preschool programs, as well as Kindergarten, After School, and Summer Camp for school-age children. Degreed teachers, extensive parent communication, and welcoming family environment. Setting the standard in early care and education. Call today for your personal tour.

9370 Waterstone Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Laura Carr, Phone: 513-683-8833, Fax: 513-683-8456, Email: CompassLC2004@gmail.com, www.TheCompassSchool.com

Creative Tots , M ason Creative Tots has specialized in the private education of Toddler, Preschool and Pre-K children for 20+ years. Our holistic approach allows children the opportunity to learn, explore, play and grow while engaging in the fine arts and Montessori activities. Our modernized curriculum is rich in opportunities to use creativity, solve problems, use language, develop new vocabulary and reading skills, while engaging in intellectual activities. Enrichment Programs: Spanish, Music, Art, Yoga and Science. 6408 Thornberry Ct.,, Mason, oh 45040, Contact: Emilie Parry, Phone: 513-770-6776, Email: creativetotsmason@gmail.com, www.creative totsmason.com, Grades: Toddler: 18 months-3 years, Preschool: 3-4 years; Pre-K: 4-5 years

T he K inder G arden S chools Together with interaction of child, staff and family, we develop the complete child. In our Kinder Garden, we provide formative encouragement and knowledge with hands-on staff taking a personal interest in family and holistic education decisions for the child. Kinder Garden School is devoted to growing a child’s wish to flourish and learn by cultivating curiosity and problem-solving proficiency in a full supportive, fertile, fun setting. ENLIGHTENMENT IS OUR MISSION. Blue Ash: 10969 Reed Hartman Highway, Blue Ash, OH 45242, Phone: 791-4300; West Chester: 5900 West Chester Road, West Chester, OH 45069; Phone: 874-3100, www.KinderGardenSchool. com, Grades: 6 weeks through kindergarten, Enrollment: Please call the school 791-4300 or email Tami Lanham at tami@kindergardenschool.com

YM C A of Greater C incinnati The YMCA of Greater Cincinnati offers state licensed before and after school care at over 85 locations throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. 1105 Elm Street, Cincinnnati, OH 45202, Contact: Trish Kitchell, VP Youth Development, Phone: 513-362-YMCA, Fax: 513-651-3540, Email: tkitchell@ MyY.org, www.MyY.org, Grades: Ages 3-12, Enrollment: Stop by any YMCA of Greater Cincinnati location or check with your local school district.

[MONTESSORI] Children ’ s Meeting House Montessori S chool An authentic Montessori school program resting on 8 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: Casey Reed, Director, Phone: 513-683-4757, Email: reed@cmhschool.com, www.cmhschool. com, Grades: Preschool through Sixth grade, Enrollment: 160

Country H ills Montessori Providing programs for 3 to K. Small, individualized classes with low student-teacher ratios, under the guidance of Montessori certified teachers, in an inter-generational environment. Multiple Locations in Eastgate, Oakley, Harrison and West Chester Ohio and in Ft. Thomas KY. Visit chmschools. com for all location addresses & phones. Contact: Susan Schreiber, Owner, Email: susan@ chmschools.com, www.chmschools.com/, Grades: 3 - K

G arden M ontessori S chool Redeemer P reschool Redeemer Preschool offers a part-day preschool experience for children in a Christian setting. Toddlers through pre-kindergarten classes are available. Special activities include Spanish, Music and Chapel. 2944 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: (513)533-5980, Email: rpsdirector03@gmail.com, Redeemerpreschoolhydepark.com, Grades: 2 1/2 - 5 years, Enrollment: 90

Celebrating over 40 years, member of Cincinnati Montessori Society. Certified/degreed Montessori teachers with combined 70 years experience. Montessori program, full day, and Kindergarten. Individualized instruction, small class size, 1:8 teacher/child ratio. Offer music, dance, and gym. Large, fenced-in outdoor playground. 1318 Nagel Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45255, Contact: Jackie Wofford/Director, Phone: 513-474-4933, Email: gms@ cinci.rr.com, gardenmontessori school.com, Grades: pre-school thru Kdg. ages 3-6 years old.

SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

Mercy M ontessori Center

Bethany S chool

Mercy Montessori provides a world-class education and a strong foundation for learning and discovery as Greater Cincinnati’s first and oldest Montessori school. Started in 1969, Mercy Montessori is a private, independent Catholic Montessori School offering personalized educational experiences for children from preschool through eighth grade.

Bethany School is an independent preparatory school where students experience an appreciation for many cultures. Laptop computers, on-line grading, a dynamic music program, rigorous curriculum, and a variety of extracurricular programs provide a truly extraordinary educational environment.

2335 Grandview Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45206, Contact: Amanda Grimm, Admissions Director, Phone: (513) 475-6700 ext. 210, Email: agrimm@ mercymontessori.org, www.mercymontessori. org, Grades: Preschool - 8th Grade, Enrollment: 292

555 Albion Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45246, Contact: Teri Mauntel, Phone: (513)771-2462, www.bethanyschool.org, Grades: Grades: K – 8th grade, Enrollment: 250

C I NC I NNAT I H I LL S CH R I S T I A N AC ADE MY T he N ew S chool Montessori Centrally located and surrounded by wooded play yards and gardens, students benefit from a nurturing environment where Montessoricredentialed staff support high academic and personal achievement. Full-day, half-day and part-time AMS and ISACS accredited programs with healthy lunches included in tuition. 3 Burton Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229, Contact: Ceara Comstock, Phone: (513)281-7999, Email: ceara.c@newschoolmontessori.com, www.newschoolmontessori.com, Grades: 3-year-olds through Grade 6, Enrollment: 125

CHCA’s college-prep curriculum sparks creativity and fuels mastery. CHCA’s culture of vigorous inquiry and persistent effort develops agile, innovative thinkers. As they wrestle with timeless, essential questions, students strengthen their minds and their faith. 11525 Snider Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Natalie Pfister, Enrollment Director, Phone: (513)247-0900, Email: admissions@chca-oh.org, www.chca-oh.org, Grades: Preschool 3 - Grade 12, Enrollment: 1350

GUARDI A N A NGE L S S CHO OL

[NON–PUBLIC] Aldersgate Christian Academy Aldersgate Christian Academy offers families in the Greater Cincinnati area a faith-based education with strong academics and an emphasis on music. ACA is a member school of the American Association of Christian Schools and offers the option of the Ed Choice Scholarship through the Ohio Department of Education. 1810 Young Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Contact: William Marshall, Principal, Phone: 513-763-6655, Email: academy@gbs.edu, aldersgatechristianacademy.webs.com, Grades: K - 12, Enrollment: 140

AR CH BI S HOP M C N ICHOL A S H IGH S CHO OL Archbishop McNicholas High School promotes a Christ-centered, Catholic community that embraces each student – spiritually, intellectually, morally, and physically. We provide a safe, nurturing, creative, and challenging campus where individuals will grow in knowledge and faith. We equip our students with opportunities and experiences that will enable them to achieve excellence, live out gospel values, and attain full stature in Christ. 6536 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, Oh 45230, Contact: Christina Mullis, Director of Admissions and Enrollment, Phone: 513-231-3500, www. mcnhs.org, Grades: 9-12, Enrollment: 640

Guardian Angels School was named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence in 2007 and continues to lead the way in education by providing programs and employing teaching strategies that are engaging and challenging for all students. Every day we foster the development of the whole child in a value-enriched environment. Visit our Open House is January 31 from 1-3pm at the school! 6539 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45230, Phone: 513.624.3141, www.gaschool.org/, Grades: K through 8

M other of Mercy H igh S chool Mother of Mercy is a Catholic College Preparatory School for young women, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas and members of the Mercy Education Collaborative of Cincinnati, inspiring, educating and empowering young women to become faith-filled leaders through the Core Values of the Sisters of Mercy: Faith, Compassion, Service, Leadership and Excellence. Join us at our Open House on Sunday, November 1 from 1 - 3 p.m. to explore all that Mother of Mercy has to offer! 3036 Werk Road, Cincinnati, OH 45211, Contact: Cara Hyland, Director of Admissions, Phone: (513) 661-2740, Email: hyland_c@motherofmercy.org, www.motherofmercy.org, Grades: 9 - 12, Enrollment: About 500 students

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // SEPTEMBER 2015

every individual child is free to rise to challenges and soar, academically and personally. Rockwern Academy has created a culture of excellence, reflected by our teachers, programs, curriculum and our commitment to fostering a love of Jewish life and learning. 8401 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, OH 45236, Phone: 513-984-3770, Email: info@ rockwernacademy.org, www.rockwernacademy. org, Grades: 18 months - 8th Grade, Enrollment: 210

T he S even H ills S chool An award-winning Independent, non-sectarian and co-educational school serving students two years through grade 12 on two campuses. An intellectually vibrant environment encourages personal attention and the average class size is 15. Educating the whole child with a college-prep, 21st century curriculum. Hillsdale Campus - 5400 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati; Doherty Campus - 2726 Johnstone Place, Cincinnati, Phone: 513-728-2400, www.7hills.org, Grades: Pre-K through 12

S t. Urs u la Academy St. Ursula Academy is a top high school choice for students from more than 90 grade schools across Greater Cincinnati! A St. Ursula education develops the whole person and helps each student develop her own unique gifts and talents. St. Ursula nurtures each young woman to become a confident leader who is ready to achieve her own goals and dreams. Students develop great friendships, work with talented teachers, and pursue their personal interests in the more than 40 clubs, student service organizations and 12 athletic programs. St. Ursula is committed to educating its students to become women of faith, integrity and courage committed to building a better world. 1339 East McMillan, Cincinnati, OH 45206, Contact: Michelle Dellecave Director of Admissions, Phone: (513) 961-3410 ext. 183, Email: admissions@ saintursula.org, www.saintursula.org, Grades: Girls grades 9-12, Enrollment: 665

S t. Urs u la V illa An extraordinary family atmosphere and Christ-centered spirit of St. Angela Merici cultivates independent learners who achieve their potential through small classes, individualized instruction, and nurturing of the whole child. Program offerings begin with Toddler/2-year-old and Traditional or Montessori preschool continuing through Junior High, recognized for outstanding high school preparation. 3660 Vineyard Place, Cincinnati, OH 45226, Contact: Marta Runnels, Phone: 513-871-7216 x 2101, Email: m.runnels@stursulavilla.org, www.stursulavilla. org, Grades: 2-years-old through 8th grade, Enrollment: 465

[PUBLIC] C incinnati P u blic S Chools Our goal is to provide a rigorous curiculum that cultivates critical thinking and technology skills while encouraging collaboration, real-world connections and endless creativity. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just about getting your children ready for graduation. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about getting them into college and preparing them for a thriving career! Phone: 513-363-0123, cps-k12.org

Great Oaks C areer C amp uses Great Oaks offers career development training for high school students and adults. With four campuses-Scarlet Oaks in Sharonville, Diamond Oaks in Dent, Live Oaks in MIlford, and Laurel Oaks in Wilmington, high school students prepare for careers and college, and adults get training and certification to begin a new career or advance in a current career. 3254 East Kemper Road, Cincinnati, OH 45040, Contact: Jon Weidlich, Phone: 513-771-8840, Email: weidlicj@ greatoaks.com, www.greatoaks.com, Grades: High school (grades 11-12) and Adult

[SPECIaL NEEDS] S pringer S chool 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 Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: Carmen Mendoza, Admissions Director, Phone: 513 871-6080 ext. 211, Fax: 513 871-6428, Email: cmendoza@ springer-LD.org, www.springer-LD.org, Grades: 1 through 8, Enrollment: 200

[TUTORING] S Y LVA N LE AR N I NG Center S OF C I NC I NNAT I For more than 30 years, Sylvan has helped more than two million students learn to read, write, calculate and organize themselves to reach their potential inside and outside of the classroom. More importantly, Sylvan has helped children develop a love of learning and a confidence that they carry throughout their lives. Programs for students K-12: Reading, Writing, Math, Robotics, Coding, Study Skills, Homework Help, Test Prep Anderson: 513-231-6000, Crestview Hills: 859-344-5080, Northgate: 513-755-4949, West Chester: 513-755-4949, www.sylvanlearning.com

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SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

Ove rwe ight and Alone When only one child in a family struggles with weight Emma Hostetter, MD, MPH

The obesit y epidemic among American kids is not news, and although increased nutritional education, improved school cafeteria options and the addition of physical activit y programs have had a positive influence, the problem is still real for one third of U.S. children who are considered overweight or obese. While weight issues often impact an entire family, sometimes only one person is affected. For a child who struggles with weight in a family where everyone else does not, life can be particul arly difficult. How can parents help kids in this unique situation ?

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // SEPTEMBER 2015

Reasons for childhood obesity Childhood obesity is influenced by genetic, environmental and developmental factors, so teasing out the “cause” can be complicated. Some severe genetic disorders resulting in obesity do exist, but these are accompanied by other unhealthy signs and symptoms not seen in the majority of overweight children. These severe genetic disorders are rare, but smaller genetic influences (waiting to be discovered) may be contributing to the overall obesity epidemic in the general population. For most children, lifestyle (diet and exercise) plays the largest role in influencing weight.

If you find that only one child in your home has a weight issue, see a doctor to make sure that an underlying health condition such as hypothyroidism, Cushing’s Disease or a genetic syndrome is not the cause. In most cases, an underlying diagnosis will not exist, but ruling this out will guide how you approach the situation. It may simply be that your child has a genetic predisposition to gain weight more easily than the other children in your home.

Talking with your overweight child

Making necessary changes

Younger children may not understand the genetic component of weight gain. Putting concepts into simple terms can be very helpful. Simply explain, “Some people gain weight more easily than others, and you are one of those people. That means that you will have to work a little harder to have a healthy weight.” Let your child know that you understand that this situation isn’t fair, but that there are things you can do together to make it better. Dr. Jennifer White, MD with The Christ Hospital, says that overweight kids may already be struggling with self-esteem issues over their appearance. Talking about how you will incorporate a more active lifestyle and healthier eating habits, rather than focusing on a “weight problem” will help eliminate a message of blame or embarrassment.

Although gulping down a 12-ounce Coke with a Big Mac and fries may not result in a bump on the scale for every other member in your family, your overweight child does not have this luxury. Even though your waistline may not show the evidence of your poor diet, your internal organs know the difference! Dr. White says making healthy dietary changes as an entire family will improve everyone’s health – and avoid making your heavy child feel singled out. If your family already sticks to a routinely healthy diet, then adjusting portion sizes for your overweight child may be the key to losing weight. White emphasizes that a “clean your plate” mentality should be abandoned. Cutting out sugary beverages (including juice and chocolate milk) can also be a simple way to shave off a few excess calories.

Increasing exercise is also a key element to maintaining a healthy weight. Decrease screen time and encourage your child to play outside or find a physical activity they find enjoyable. Make exercise a family affair by going for walks, riding bikes or doing any other type of activity that gets everyone moving. Your willingness to exercise as a group demonstrates to your child that you are all in this together.

Getting your child down to an appropriate weight can be a challenge, but by making a healthy lifest yle a goal for the entire family, your child will feel supported and less alone in the process. Set reasonable goals and expect some setbacks, but keep your eye on the prize of helping your child achieve a healthy body that can take them wherever they may want to go.

SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

enrichment guide arts + education 3 rd S unday F undays

Bring the whole family to the Taft Museum of Art on select third Sundays to explore, create, and play. These free afternoon programs offer great art, kid-sized art info, hands-on fun, and family-friendly performances. Most activities are ongoing, so drop in when you have time and stay as long as you like. 316 Pike Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Phone: (513) 241-0343, Email: taftmuseum@taftmuseum. org, http://www.taftmuseum.org/

C incinnati B oychoir The Cincinnati Boychoir is one of the premiere professional boychoirs in the United States. Located in the urban arts core of Cincinnati at the Aronoff Center for the Arts, the Boychoir reaches approximately 200 young men each year from more than 90 schools in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. Since 1965, the Cincinnati Boychoir has been dedicated to the musical, intellectual, and emotional development of these young men and has served as one of the foremost music education and performance organizations in the region; boys attend weekly rehearsals, retreats, music theory classes, and the annual SongFest Summer Music Camp for Boys at Xavier University. 650 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Contact: Heather Lally, Phone: 513-396-7664, Email: heather.lally@cincinnatiboychoir.org, cincinnatiboychoir.org

C incinnati Muse um Center Regardless of age, interest or style of learning, we are sure to have a program your child will love. We have group activities like our Scout Programs, Day Camps, Overnights and Birthday Parties, but we also offer smaller enrichment programs like Sprouts Institute, Bright Ideas and Explorers University. Our programming is multi-diciplinary (like us), and focuses on everything from art and culture to science, history and technology. Try one, or all! And remember, Members always get the best deals! 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45203, Phone: (513) 287-7000, www.cincymuseum.org

E nriching K id z Offering after school enrichment and weekends, including classes such as Better Baby Sitters, Kidz Home Alone or Empowering Girls with Confidence ages 9-12. Schedule a private class with 8 kids or more! 8237 Indian Summer Way,

Mason, OH 45040, Contact: Amy Klebanow Marks BSN, RN, Phone: 513-336-9993, Email: amy@ enrichingkidz.com, http://www.enrichingkidz.com Specific Category: Classes/Workshops

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // SEPTEMBER 2015

T he S ilver Diva

K aleidoscope Dance S t u dio

Kids love coming to The Silver Diva to create a personalized piece of jewelry! Learn how to hand stamp your name, special date or phrase into metal and then make it into something fun to wear like a necklace, ring or bracelet. Instruction is always free and you just pay for what you make. Great fun activity for ages 6 and up! Birthday parties too!

Come see the many colors of dance! Offering ballet, lyrical, contemporary, jazz and hip hop, tap, musical theatre, tumbling, adult classes and more! Visit our Open House August 16th from 1-4pm. Vendors, fun activities for the kids, delicious treats and fun prizes! Fall classes begin Sept 7th... Sign up today!

9797 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45242, Phone: (513) 873-4561, Email: info@thesilverdiva. com, https://www.thesilverdiva.com/

dance

Broadway B ound Dance Academy Broadway Bound Dance Academy is the place for fun and learning all year long! We offer complete dance and tumbling instruction to ages 2yr and above. Reserve your spot today!

1107 S. Fort Thomas Avenue, Ft. Thomas, KY 41075, Contact: Lindsey Smith, Phone: 859-441-6683, Email: kd.co@hotmail.com, www.dancekdc.com

P remier T umbling and Dance Premier offers all styles of dance as well as tumbling classes for all levels and ages. We also offer adult fitness classes, summer camps, tot programs and competitive teams. We have something for everyone to enjoy! 679 Loveland Madeira Rd., Loveland, OH 45140, Contact: Angie McNeil, Phone: 513-677-1240, Email: premiertumbling@gmail.com, www.premiertumbling.com Specific Category: Dance, Tumbling, Gymnastics

10580 Loveland Madeira Rd, Loveland, OH 45140, Phone: 513-774-9474, www.broadway bounddance.com

S DA S t u dios

E rickson Academy of I rish Dance

Dance lessons for ages 2.5 & up. Creative dance, ballet, tap, jazz, modern, lyrical, contemporary and pointe. Annual Nutcracker, Spring Show and Competition Ensemble.

Irish dancing classes for pre-schoolers, children and teens. Build confidence, friendships and skills! Beginner classes offered at Main Studio in Linwood and Westwood Studio. Enroll at any time. Sprung floors, mirrors and parent observation area. Certified by the Irish Dancing Commission, Dublin, Ireland.

7398 Liberty One Dr., Liberty Twp., OH 45044, Contact: Mary St.Romain, Director, Phone: 513-779-0135, Email: sdastudios@aol.com, www.sda-studios.com

673 Wilmer Ave - Suite D, Cincinnati, OH 45226, Contact: Allison Weber Erickson, Phone: 513-232-1366, Email: ericksondance@aol.com, www.ericksonirishdance.com

Tippi Toes Dance CompanyÂŽ offers high-energy dance classes for boys and girls. We incorporate our original dance music to help children use the ir imagination and further their dance experience. We offer different types of classes for children 18 months to 12 years throughout Cincinnati!

G otta Dance

PO Box 8281, West Chester, OH 45069, Phone: 513-578-1280, Email: andrea@tippitoesdance.com, www.tippitoesdance.com/cincinnati

Two locations in Anderson Township & Mt. Lookout. New recreational classes teaching at beginner, advanced and adult levels: ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, pointe and hip hop. Non-competitive, safe environment where all students are accepted and challenged to excel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; learning technique, self-confidence and artistic skills through the art of dance. 7892 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45255, Phone: 513-232-9710, Email: gottastudios@gmail. com, GottaDance-Studios.com

T ippi Toes Dance

gymnastics

G o 2 Grow Gymnastics A Preschool Gymnastics based activity program focusing on body basics in gymnastics, movement, and sports skills in a fun safe learning environment. Come watch your child bloom and grow strong and confident with joy!

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SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

3600 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati, OH 45227, Contact: Rebecca Bruggeman, Owner/Operator, Phone: 513-746-8571, Email: rb.go2growgymnastics@gmail.com, www.Go2GrowGymnastics.com

music

A ngel’ s House of Music Voted Best of the East 2014. Angel’s offer private lessons for Piano, Voice, Guitar and most Instruments. Est. 1996 by Margaret Angel. Angel’s encourages the love of music while providing quality lessons. Each instructor is college educated in their field. 180 Cemetery Road, Milford, OH 45150, Contact: Margaret Angel, Phone: 513-831-1191, angelshouseofmusic.net

B aldwin Music E ducation Center Baldwin Music Education Center offers unique, age-specific curriculum taught by degreed and trained group music educators. Classes offered year around for ages 6-months on up. 50+ years of experience, convenient location and family discounts. The oldest, preeminent preschool and group piano program in the city! BMEC believes Every Life Needs Music! 3799 Hyde Park Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45209, Contact: Rachel Kramer, Phone: 513-351-1109, Email: baldwinmusiceducenter@gmail.com, www.baldwinmusiceducenter.com

C incinnati S trings Greater Cincinnati’s best violin, viola and cello teachers are now available for lessons in your home, with all the benefits of music school instruction included; including recitals, group classes, and materials. We fit music into your life so your kids can spend more time making music and less time running around town. Our experienced teachers work with students of all ages using a variety of methods, including Suzuki. Call us today! Cincinnati, OH 45220, Contact: Dominic DeStefano, Phone: 513-400-5570, Email: info@cincinnati strings. com, www.cincinnatistrings.com Specific Category: Violin, Viola and Cello

K indermusik by C athy S iebert Your child deserves the best music experience! Come and learn ways to play with your child using music to develop their cognitive, physical, social and language skills with music. We sing, play instruments and dance! From birth through 6 years of age! Start anytime! Call for free visit! We now offer classes in Mariemont in addition to Madeira and Mt. Washington. 6131 Campus Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45230, Contact: Cathy Siebert, Phone: 513.231.3973, Email: siebertkm@aol.com, kindermusikbycs. kindermusik.net Specific Category: Music and Instrument Performance, Early Childhood Music

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // SEPTEMBER 2015

M iss Nancy ’ s Musikgarten A holistic music and movement program which systematically introduces musical concepts to young children, using songs, dances, structured and creative movement and listening activities. Our primary goal is to guide children to a lifelong love of music , while allowing them to experience the joy of making music with others! 3711 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45220, Contact: Nancy Huey, Phone: 513-702-9927, Email: nancy.huey@gmail.com, www. cincinnatimusikgarten.com Specific Category: Early childhood music and movement

R iley S chool of I rish Music Founded in 1996, the Riley School meets on Saturdays September through May to teach children and adults to play music in the Irish tradition. Classes offered include Fiddle, Flute, Guitar, Irish Harp, Singing, Tin Whistle, and more. Open Houses each quarter for new and prospective students —see website for details. 3718 Eastern Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45226, Phone: (513) 549-3780, rileyirishmusic.com

University of C incinnati CC M P reparatory Department Study at the only nationally accredited community arts program in the area. CCM Preparatory offers music, theatre arts and dance classes and lessons for all ages and abilities. Lessons in all instruments, voice and composition. Suzuki string and piano lessons for younger students. Performance opportunities include ballet company, Jr. musical program, wind ensembles, string orchestras, brass choir, jazz ensembles, guitar ensemble and recitals. Summer camps for all interests. Visit ccm.uc.edu/ prep, email ccmprep@uc.edu or call 513-556-2595 for more information. PO Box 210236, Cincinnati, OH 45221, Contact: Peggy Grant, Phone: (513)556-2595, Email: grantmj@ucmail.uc.edu, www.ccm.uc.edu/prep

5020 Oaklawn Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45227, Phone: 513-569-8080 ext. 10, www.thechildrenstheatre.com

other

G inga , LLC Ginga Futsal Training now available for U6-U9 players this Fall 2015. Futsal is a 5v5 indoor soccer game. Coaches are former professional players, and Ginga is nationally recognized as a superb development tool for soccer players. Program consists of weekly trainings, games, and end of year tournament. REGISTRATION IS OPEN!! PO Box 54747,Contact: Jon Caldwell, Phone: (317) 430-6394, Email: jon@thegingatouch.com, www.thegingatouch.com Other category: Recreational sports

P ogo P lay Pogo Play is Cincinnati’s premier indoor entertainment and party destination. Over 20,000SF of active play including giant play structure, basketball, interactive floor, dramatic play, imagination playground and more! Parties include 2 dedicated hosts and time in 2 rooms of inflatables. Leave your party planning to us and relax. Packages can include pizza, paninis and more. Multiplay passes also available. 10870 Kenwood Road, Cincinnati, OH 45242, Contact: Susan Mattick, Phone: 513-432-5593, Email: admin@gopogoplay.com, www.gopogoplay.com

S tar Gla z ers Paint pottery at you own location! We bring all the supplies needed, then we take the pieces to our facility to glaze/ fire, then we return them to you for distribution!We bring everything except for table and chairs! Pieces are returned to party house within 2 weeks. Call today to reserve your date!

Other Category: Dance, Theatre

Contact: Ann Flynn, Phone: (513)474-6364, Fax: (513)474-7886, Email: ann@starglazers.com, www.starglazers.com

theater

S Y LVA N LE AR N I NG C enter S OF C I NC I NNAT I

T he Children ’ s T heatre of C incinnati Bringing art to life for children and the young-atheart through 3 key programs: MainStage, ArtReach and Learning the Craft. Both MainStage (at the Taft) and ArtReach (touring) shows are accompanied by complimentary study guides. Each season’s productions are intended to act as a bridge for local curriculums, giving schools access to high quality arts education as well as serving as a catalyst for integrating the arts with other subjects. ArtReach also features a WorkShop division which takes a teaching artist directly to classrooms and afterschool programs. Our Learning the Craft classes offers various integrated arts sessions (8 or 12 weeks) for students of all abilities and ages.

For more than 30 years, Sylvan has helped more than two million students learn to read, write, calculate and organize themselves to reach their potential inside and outside of the classroom. More importantly, Sylvan has helped children develop a love of learning and a confidence that they carry throughout their lives. Programs for students K-12: Reading, Writing, Math, Robotics, Coding, Study Skills, Homework Help, Test Prep Anderson: 513-231-6000, Crestview Hills: 859-3445080, Northgate: 513-755-4949, West Chester: 513-755-4949, www.sylvanlearning.com

SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

GROW I N G H E A LT H Y FA M I L I E S

Home Alone When can kids be safely left home by themselves? Sarah Painer, MSW, LISW-S, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital

It’s a big milestone: leaving your child home alone while you run out for a quick errand, have lunch with a friend or go out for a date night with your spouse. Whether you’re gone 15 minutes or several hours, you won’t feel comfortable unless you’re confident your child can handle the responsibility of being on their own. How can you determine when your son or daughter is ready? In Ohio, no statute exists that requires a specific age for a child to legally stay home alone, leaving this decision to parents. Since every child’s level of maturity is different, the appropriate age for one may not be the same age for another. Here a few important considerations to take into account:

What are the risks of leaving your child home alone? Is your neighborhood considered safe? Do you have an alarm system in place that your child knows how to operate? Would your child know what to do if, for example, a stranger knocked at the door?

How available are friends and neighbors to step in if there were an emergency? Are there adults you can rely on to come to the aid of your child if necessary while he or she was home alone? Are these trusted people you and your child could depend on to know what to do?

Is your child mature enough to stay home alone? Children mature at different rates and while one 10-year-old may be perfectly fine at home alone, a 12-year-old with a different maturity level may not. When parents are making this decision, they should assess a child’s ability to care for himself, how he responds to stressful or unfamiliar situations, how impulsive he tends to be, etc.

How comfortable is your child with the idea of being by home alone? Is your child anxious about being left by themselves? What are they concerned about? If they are not comfortable being left home alone yet, wait until they feel ready. Find out what they need to feel confident being home by themselves.

Would your child know what to do in the event of an emergency? Have you discussed what specific actions your child should take in the event of a fire, dangerous weather or other unexpected event? Does your child know to call 911 or to contact you or a neighbor? Do they have a basic knowledge of first aid?

Do you feel confident your child would obey any rules you have in place while you are gone? Can you trust your child to be home alone? Have you outlined rules you expect to be followed, for example regarding screen time or friends coming over?

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // SEPTEMBER 2015

If you’ve decided your child is ready to be left home alone, make sure you address the following: Rules: Review what is and is not allowed while children are home alone. Emergencies: Go over what to do in various emergencies, who to contact and when to call 911. Write this information down and make sure your child understands it. Practice: Role play different scenarios like someone unexpected coming to the door, emergency situations, etc. Trial period: Leave your child home alone for a short period of time while you are close to home to see how they manage.

Deciding when to leave a child home alone is a big decision that can have important consequences. For a child who is not ready, there are potentially dangerous results. For a child who is ready, managing this responsibility can give him a new sense of confidence – and give parents a much-appreciated newfound flexibility.

SEPTEMBER EVENTS

DAILY calendar

SEPTEMBER 2015 TUES 01

THURS 03

Slime Time Make your own slime while learning about the properties of matter! For ages 6-12. Registration required.

Color Our World Let’s kick off the month of September with colorful flair! Do you love spreading cheer by sharing rainbows and smiley faces? This is the event for you! We will be reading our favorite stories about colors and then we will head outside to decorate our front sidewalk with all the colors we can muster! Best for ages 5+. Free. Please call 513.731.2665 to reserve your spot. Space is limited.

Time: 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Location: Harrison Branch Library, www.cincinnatilibrary.org/branches/ harrison.html

WEDS 02 — MON 07 Alexandria Fair and Horse Show Horsemen, 4H, FFA, children’s activities, beauty pageants and more. Check website for daily times. Location: Alexandria Fairgrounds, Phone: 859-635-2667

WEDS 02 Paris in Love Join us for Wine down Wednesday! 1/2 priced bottles of wine for paid painters 21+ Time: 7:00 p.m., Location: Cheers to Art, Madeira, www.cheerstoart.com

2 1 S T A N N UA L R U B B E R D U C K R E G AT TA AT S AW Y E R P O I N T, S U N DAY, S E P T E M B E R 6 T H

Time: 4:00-5:00 p.m., Location: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore, www.bluemanateebooks. com/, Phone: (513) 731-2665

Wild About Wine Each tasting takes place in different locations throughout the Zoo. Guests will enjoy unique wine sampling, food-by-the-bite from local restaurants, live music, up-close animal encounters and more. Individual tickets to Wild about Wine – $45; Designated Driver tickets to Wild about Wine – $35. Proceeds from the “A Toast to the Wild” event series support the Zoo’s own Lindner Center for the Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife. Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m., Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, http://cincinnatizoo.org, Phone: (513) 281-4700

FRI 04 Cincinnati Reds vs. Milwaukee Brewers Come cheer on the Reds as they take on the Brewers! Post-game fireworks show with soundtrack starting approximately 15 minutes after the end of the game. Time: 7:10 p.m., Location: Great American Ballpark, cincinnati.reds.mlb.com, Phone: (513) 765-7000

SAT 05 Incline District Street Fair Showcasing the multicultural richness of Price Hill. Local artisan vendors, food trucks, music and craft beer. Time: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm, Location: Incline District, www. theinclinedistrictstreetfair.com, Phone: (513) 921-7527

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // SEPTEMBER 2015

Cruise-a-Palooz a This classic car show features hundreds of makes and models from all through the years! Professional judges will award trophies to the top 50 cars. Prizes and music by DJ Hughes make this event fun for the entire family! Admission to the event is FREE. Normal rates apply for Sunlite Pool and Coney’s Classic Rides. Time: noon-4:00 p.m., Location: Coney Island, http://coneyislandpark.com

Summer Concerts in the Park Enjoy an evening concert with the U.S. Air Force Systems Go and Prism Brass Bands. Free! Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Location: Sharon Woods, www.greatparks.org, Phone: (513) 521-7275

SUN 06 Western & Southern/ WEBN Fireworks at Riverfest It’s a full day of excitement for everyone! Performers of all kinds will appear at entertainment areas on both sides of the Ohio River. Family fun and lots of food and beverages will be available in all directions, capped off with WEBN fireworks at 9:05PM, featuring Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks live on the river! Sponsored by Western & Southern and Cincinnati Bell. Synchronized musical soundtrack can be heard on 102.7 WEBN-FM. Time: noon - 10:00 pm, Location: Sawyer Point, www.webn.com/articles/2015-westernsouthern-webn-fireworks-487013/

21st Annual Duck Regatta The 21st Annual Rubber Duck Regatta presented by Dawn will take place prior to the Western & Southern/WEBN Fireworks presented by Cincinnati Bell. That afternoon, as many as 200,000 ducks will swim in the Ohio River near the Serpentine Wall. The first prize winner will receive a 2016 Honda HR-V and possibly $1 million, if their duck is the KEMBA Million Dollar Duck. The second prize winner will receive $100 from Kroger every week for a year ($5,200 total), and five additional winners will receive $500 cash from KEMBA Credit Union. Ducks, which are $5 each or six for $25. Time: 3:00-4:00 pm, Location: Sawyer Point, http://rubberduckregatta.org

MON 07 Kids’ Mystery Fish Challenge This event is presented by Bass Pro Shops. It is for children under 16 years of age, accompanied by an adult. Prizes awarded in three age groups for any fish closest to the mystery weight. Trophies awarded to every kid who catches a fish. Bring your own, rent or buy a rod and reel. Bait available for purchase. Registration begins one hour before the event. Free! Time: 10:00 am-noon, Location: Lake Isabella, www.greatparks.org, Phone: (513) 521-7275

L abor Day Picnic $12 per person, Kids 2 and under are free. Plus, $1 Cotton Candy, $1 Sno Kones, $1 Popcorn and $1 Soft Drinks. Admission Includes: All rides, roller coasters, and free parking. Time: 1:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Location: Stricker’s Grove, Hamilton, www.strickersgrove.com

TUES 08 Family Yarn Time Yarn artists and their children are invited to come share ideas and tips with fellow yarn enthusiasts. Time: 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm, Location: Cheviot Branch Library, www.cincinnatilibrary.org/branches/ cheviot.html

WEDS 09 Hug Your Teddy Day It’s Teddy Bear Day! Do you have a favorite furry friend you love to snuggle? Join us as we enjoy our favorite bear books and create a fantastic art & writing activity to share what we love most about our teddy bears. Bring your teddy bears with you to join in the fun! Best for ages 5-7. $3.00. Please call 513.731.2665 to reserve your spot. Space is limited Time: 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Location: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore, www.bluemanateebooks.com/, Phone: (513) 731-2665

WEDS 09 — THURS 10 Free family music class Kids ages 0-5 and their caregivers are invited to enjoy a FREE mixed age Music Together. Space and instruments are limited, and time of the class is subject to change so reservations are required. Time: 10-10:45 a.m., Location: Nativity Church in Pleasant Ridge, www.musictimenow.com, 513-652-6267

THURS 10 DoodleDays! Teens, build something unique with the library’s 3Doodler 3D-printing pen! Registration is required. Call 513-369-4478. Time: 3:30 pm, Location: Forest Park Branch, www.cincinnatilibrary.org, Phone: (513) 369-6900

SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

E at Local for the Globe An event celebrating the world of gastronomy, mixology and brewing at your great public market. Proceeds benefit Findlay Market’s innovative local food initiatives – a shared use commercial kitchen for food entrepreneurs; a new local-only store, dirt: a modern market; and a network of neighborhood farmstands and pop-up markets. It’s good to go to Findlay Market.

SAT 12 Anderson Township ’s Fall Festival Petting zoo, food trucks, entertainment and apple roll for children. Time:9:00 am - 1:00 pm, Location: Anderson Center Station, andersonfarmersmarket.org/

Time: 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm, Location: Findlay Market, www.findlaymarket.org

FRI 11 Halloween Kickoff at Once Upon a Child We’ve been stocking up all year on the cutest, scariest, funniest and perfect-est costumes and we’re bringing them all out for you on ONE day! Find your perfect little lady bug or pumpkin, princess or pirate and more! Huge selection available, most prices between $3.50 and $8.50, plus candy for everyone! Visit the store nearest you! Location: Once Upon a Child, multiple locations, www.onceuponachildcincydayton.com

Oakley After Hours Mad Tree beer, kids’ entertainment and live music. Free shuttles from 7 p.m.-1 a.m. around Hyde Park and Oakley. Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Location: Oakley Square, www.oakleynow.com, Phone: (513) 533-9039

FRI 11 — SAT 12 PREPARING FOR NIGHT Discover the secret sights and sounds of nature at night at this fun-filled family event! Bring a flashlight and visit interactive stations along the trails featuring animals and insects that make use of the cover of darkness. Guests can enjoy a picnic with live music and free ice cream. Food trucks will be available. Member adult $7, child $3; nonmember adult $10, child $5. No registration required. Time: 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm both days, Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, cincynature.org, Phone: 513-831-1711

FRI 11 — SUN 13 Clinton County Corn Festival 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. Check website for daily times. Location: Clinton County Fairgrounds, Wilmington, www.antiquepowerclub.org, Phone: (937) 383-5676

M ainStrasse Village Oktoberfest A mixture of German and American food, arts/craft booths, refreshments, children’s activities, entertainment and more, located along the tree lined Promenade and in Goebel Park. While you’re at the festival, you can also enjoy this historic neighborhood of year round shops, restaurants and taverns. Check website for daily times. Location: MainStrasse Village, Covington, KY, www.mainstrasse.org

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // SEPTEMBER 2015

Treasure Island Join cabin boy Jim Hawkins on his incredible journey across the high seas to find the location of Captain Flint’s treasure. But dare he trust the words of the Hispaniolas’s cook, the one-legged Long John Silver? With cross-curricular connections and a strong anti-bullying message, this show reinforces math, science, and literature, with a healthy dose of trust and friendship thrown in to boot!

Time: 2:00 pm-5:00 pm, Location: Shawnee Lookout, www.greatparks.org, Phone: 513-521-7275

Monarch M ania Weekend This is the best time to look for monarch butterflies as they flutter in droves to their wintering sight in Mexico. Participate in a craft and a scavenger hunt while learning about these fascinating animals. Attend a formal talk on these exciting insects, given at 1 p.m. each day. ($1/craft, payable at the door) Time: 12-4:00 pm, Location: Miami Whitewater Forest, http://www.greatparks.org

SUN 13

Time: 11:00 am, Location: Covedale Center for the Performing Arts, www.cincinnati landmarkproductions.com

Cincinnati National College Fair Free and open to the public, National College Fairs allow students to interact with admission representatives from a wide range of postsecondary institutions.

SAT 12 — SUN 13

Time: 1:00 pm-4:00 pm, Location: Duke Energy Convention Center, www.nacacnet.org

Weekend in 1800’s Go back in time to visit people from the year of 1800. The cabin and schoolhouse lawn will come alive with early Ohio settlers. Our guests will be reenactors from the Society of Northwest Longhunters dressed in period clothing. This fun event has something for the whole family.

Grandparents’ Day Train Ride Enjoy a 1.5 hour train ride with your grandparents! Adults $18.00 and Children $13.00 ages 2-12. Grandparent’s ride free with a paying grandchild. Time: 2:00 pm, Location: Kentucky Railway Museum, New Haven, KY, www.kyrail.org

M adlot Summer Series Madlot is the parking lot that was creatively transformed into an outdoor performance park. There will be live music, a farmers market, food and drinks, and free bike tune ups from 4-8 p.m. FREE! Time: 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Location: MadLot, Covington, KY, www.facebook.com/ renaissancecovington, Phone: (859) 292-2163

TUES 15 — WEDS 16 Growing up a Farm Kid: Garden Harvest Celebrate fall by harvesting potatoes from our garden to make French fries! For kids ages 2–5 accompanied by an adult. ($10/child + one free adult, $5/additional adult, register by 9/14) Time: 9:30 am -11:30 am, Location: Parky’s Farm, www.greatparks.org, Phone: 513-521-7275

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FRI 18 — SUN 20 Oktoberfest-ZinZinnati Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, the largest Oktoberfest celebration in the country, is held along Fifth Street in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio and showcases the rich German heritage of Southwest Ohio, as well as tasty samples of German-style music, food and beer. First held in 1976, the event has grown to be America’s largest Oktoberfest with more than 500,000 people attending each year. Check website for daily times.

M adeira Creativity L ab Are you into art of crafts? Join us for MadLab on Wednesdays at 3:30pm! Some basic instruction + your creativity = amazing results! Ages 12-18.

Location: Downtown Cincinnati, www.oktober festzinzinnati.com/

Time: 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Location: Madeira Branch Library, www.cincinnatilibrary.org/branches/ madeira.html

Cincinnati Comic Expo Annual show celebrating all periods and genres of pop culture with emphasis on comics. Latest and greatest in comics, graphic novels, artwork, games, toys, movies and television. Check website for daily times.

THURS 17 Wee Wonder About Wooly M ammoths Parents, register your 3–5 year-old to learn about a few extinct animals that lived during the last ice age! Children will enjoy making a craft, reading a story and an activity. $6/child, register by 9/15.

Location: Duke Energy Convention Center, cincinnaticomicexpo.com

FRI 18 Baby Tour: Color and Contrast This 30-minute experience will introduce you and your infant (ages 0-2) to the world of art with a tour designed to stimulate their developing minds. We will explain the positive effects of visual stimulation with masterpieces that will mesmerize the Art Museum’s youngest visitors. Strollers are not encouraged so that you and your child can better experience the art together. Time: 11:00 am - 11:30 am, Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org

Pops at the Movies JMR and the Pops take you on a journey through the American Film Institute’s Top 25 film scores in full orchestral splendor. Experience the iconic music from classics such as Gone With the Wind and Lawrence of Arabia, to blockbusters such as E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and The Godfather. KIDS’ TICKETS JUST $10. Time: 8:00 pm, Location: Music Hall, www. cincinnati symphony.org/concerts-plusevents/2015-16-pops-season-listing/pops-atthe-movies/

ZOOFARI Zoofari is the Zoo’s premiere party with a purpose, complete with delightful libations, dinner-by-the-bite from 60 remarkable restaurants, wild animal encounters, an extraordinary silent auction and “GiRaffle,” high-energy entertainment and dancing under the stars. Time: 6:30PM, Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens, http://cincinnatizoo.org/events/zoofari/

Time: 11:00 am, Location: Sharon Woods, www.greatparks.org, Phone: (513) 521-7275

SAT 19 The City Flea The City Flea is Cincinnati’s original curated, urban flea market that takes place once a month at Washington Park. The Flea is a place to keep your dollars local, support small business and experience YOUR city in a unique and engaging way. Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, Location: Washington Park, http://washingtonpark.org

SUN 20 Cincinnati Bengals vs. San Diego Chargers Come cheer on the Bengals as they take on the Chargers! Who dey! Time: 1:00 pm, Location: Paul Brown Stadium, www.bengals.com

T H E AP P L E S A N D H O N E Y H I G H H O L I DAY FA M I LY FAR M F E S T ON THE GROUNDS OF NORTHERN HILL S S Y N AG O G U E , S U N DAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH

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The Apples and Honey High Holiday Family Farm Fest Get a farm fresh start to the Jewish New Year! Bring your whole bunch on by for a good old fashioned afternoon of fun! Featuring: Farm Animals to feed and pet, Pony Rides, the Juggernaut Jug Band from Louisville, Bumble Bee Bounce House, Challah and Honey Cake Walk, Candy Buffet and other snacks, Balloon artistry and Face painting, Country Fair games and prizes Free with RSVP, Craft activities and much more! Plus… Each family will receive a giant cardboard box in which to create and decorate their own farm stand to take home. Rain or Shine! Free with advance RSVP to online. The first 100 children to rsvp will receive s pair of Apple shaped sunglasses! This event is open to families with children 12 and under, in which at least one parent is Jewish. Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm, Location: on the grounds of Northern Hills Synagogue, www.myshalomfamily.com

3rd Sunday Funday: Ahoy M atey! Get your pirate on as we celebrate Talk Like a Pirate Day at the Taft! Make a pirate hat of your own, explore art materials at the Art Cart, and search for artistic treasures in the Museum. Russ and Barb Childers will provide piratey musical entertainment at 2 p.m. Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Location: Taft Museum of Art, www.taftmuseum.org/, Phone: (513) 241-0343

MUM Family Fun Fest Free bounce house, door prizes, community partner scavenger hunt, coloring contest, raffles, music, 25 cent carnival games and food for purchase. Nonperishable food donations for local charities are welcomed (but not required) at door. Time: 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm, Location: Miami University, Middletown, www.mid.muohio.edu

WEDS 23 Music Café Musicians come from all over southwestern Ohio to perform, and we’re always searching new acts to share their talents on our welcoming stage. Admission is free! Time: 7:00 pm, Location: Fitton Center for Creative Arts, Hamilton, www.fittoncenter.org, Phone: (513) 863-8873

THURS 24 Cincinnati Reds vs. New York Mets Come cheer on the Reds as they take on the Mets! Bring your dog to the ballpark! It’s Bark in the Park Day #4! Ticket packages available for dogs and their owners with pet activities, samples and more in the Kroger Fan Zone. Dog packages must be purchased in advance of game day. Time: 7:10 pm, Location: Great American Ballpark, cincinnati.reds.mlb.com, Phone: (513) 765-7000

SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

G R E AT O U T D O O R W E E K E N D, M U LT I P L E L O C AT I O N S T H R O U G H C I N C I N N AT I , S AT U R DAY A N D S U N DAY, S E P T E M B E R 2 6 T H & 2 7 T H

FRI 25 Much Ado at the Zoo The Zoo is the perfect backdrop to celebrate the work Envision does for individuals with developmental disabilities. The evening will include a live band, cocktails and dinner-by-thebite, live and silent auctions, and an inspiring awards ceremony honoring two Envisionaries, who, like Envision, work to provide a full and vibrant future for people with disabilities. Tickets begin at $75. Time: 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm, Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens Base Camp, www.envision ohio. org/muchado, Phone: (513) 619-2989

FRI 25 — SUN 27 Gu ys and Dolls Tony Award-winning Broadway musical comedy filled with gamblers, night-club workers and missionaries. Check website for daily times. Location: William Mason High School Main Theatre, Mason, www.masondrama.com, Phone: (513) 494-6062

SAT 26 — SUN 27 Great Outdoor Weekend Over 40 of our Green Umbrella members will offer 120+ FREE OUTDOOR events spanning eight counties in and around Greater Cincinnati. Each year, Great Outdoor Weekend includes guided hikes, climbing, gardening, fishing, paddling–as long as it’s outside, we host it in our free, weekendlong sampler program. All programs are created by members of Green Umbrella. Check website for a full list of programs available in your area! Location: Multiple locations around the city, www.greatoutdoorweekend.org

SAT 26 ‘Fire Up the Night ’ International Fireworks Competition See four fireworks shows in one night! You’ll be amazed as teams from around the world compete for best fireworks display, followed by a stunning finale by Rozzi’s! Plus, enjoy Coney’s Classic Rides, live entertainment, and Party IN Sunlite Pool! Join us for this spectacular display of sound, color and music along with an evening of family fun like no other! Presented by Dr. Pepper and Crush. Time: 4:00 pm, Location: Coney Island, http://coneyislandpark.com

33rd Annual Country Applefest The Country Applefest festival is the longest running craft festival in the City of Lebanon. The average yearly attendance is between 30,000 and 40,000 people for our one day event. The fairgrounds will be filled with quality homemade crafts, great food, and entertainment. It will be great to see you there! FREE Admission, FREE Parking. One day only, Rain or Shine.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // SEPTEMBER 2015

Circus Tricks for Beginners This program is for students in 1st through 5th grade. Learn to walk on stilts, spin plates, juggle scarves and make balloon animals! *Registration is required. Time: 4:00 pm - 5:45 pm, Location: Monfort Heights Branch Library, www.cincinnatilibrary.org/ branches/monfortheights.html

Time: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm, Location: Warren County Fairgrounds, Lebanon, www.countryapplefest.com

WEDS 30 Cincinnati Walks for Kids Register to walk, join a team or create a team. Registration is $25 for adults and $5 for children 17 and younger. All registered participants will receive an official 2015 Cincinnati Walks for Kids T-shirt, a personal fundraising page and exclusive admission to the Zoo for the evening. Note: The walk will start on Dury Avenue, not inside the Zoo. When you arrive for the walk, please proceed directly to the Cincinnati Walks for Kids area on Dury Avenue.

Wee Wednesday: At Home Make yourself at home at the Art Museum as we take a look at the places we live. You and your little ones will explore the collection through fun, interactive stations. Recommended for ages 3-5. We’re sorry, but we are unable to accommodate large groups for this program. FREE. Reservations not required. “Open house” program for preschoolers accompanied by an adult. Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org

Time: 4:30 pm, Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, http://give.cincinnatichildrens.org/site/ PageServer?pagename=walk_home

SUN 27 Walk in the Park More than a mile of park road will be closed to traffic for you to walk, run or bike with your family. Along the way, earn rewards at fitness station challenges, join in on a group fitness program, stop by a naturalist program and enjoy music, massages, dancing in the street and more! Time: 12:30-4pm, Location: Sharon Woods, http://www.greatparks.org

TUES 29

PLEASE NOTE // 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 F estival Saturdays and Sundays, September 5th through October 25th, plus Labor Day Fair with 16th century theme. Jousting, displays, costumed performers, entertainment stages, arts and crafts shops and concessions. Rain or shine. Time: 10:30 am -6:00 pm, Location: 10542 E. Ohio 73, Harveysburg, www.renfestival.com/, Phone: (513) 897-7000

S cience of S ports Occurring Daily through September 7th

M otown the Musical September 8th through 20th, except Mondays

S hark Bridge Daily through December 30th

It began as one man’s story… became everyone’s music… and is now Broadway’s musical. MOTOWN THE MUSICAL is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat. Now, experience it live on stage in the record-breaking smash hit MOTOWN THE MUSICAL! Check website for times.

For thrill-seekers that dare to cross, Shark Bridge is the only suspension bridge in North America where guests can walk just inches above nearly two dozen sharks. This V-shaped rope bridge is 75-feet long and is suspended over the open water of the 385,000 gallon Surrounded by Sharks exhibit. The new Shark Bridge experience is included with admission or annual pass. $23 Adult, $15 Child (2-12), Free children under 2

Exhibit challenges your body and mind as you explore how incredible feats of athleticism are just science at work. $5.50-$19.50. Note: Times are from 11:00 am- 6:00 pm on Sundays only.

Location: Aronoff Center, Cincinnati, www. cincinnatiarts.org, Phone: (513) 621-ARTS [2787]

Time: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, http://www.cincymuseum.org, Phone: 513-287-7000

W eeki Watchi Mermaids at N ewport September 25th through October 12th

T he S ecret G arden September 5th through October 3rd, except Mondays This soaring musical version of the beloved family classic won three Tony Awards on Broadway. Ten-year-old Mary Lennox is alone in the world until she is sent to live with her inattentive uncle in his foreboding English manor. When she discovers the locked-away secrets of an abandoned garden, Mary coaxes far more than its flowers back to life. Great for ages 8 and up! Location: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, www.cincyplay.com

For a limited time, discover the magic of the world-famous Weeki Wachee Mermaids when they splash into Newport Aquarium! Be amazed during the daily mermaid appearances as you watch them swim underwater with their favorite Newport Aquarium animals. Plus, meet a mermaid up-close and out of the water during one of our daily meet and greet times. It’s all free with admission ticket or a Newport Aquarium Annual Pass. Time: 10:00 am-6:00 pm, Location: Newport Aquarium, Newport, KY, http://www. newportaquarium.com/What-to-do-incincinnati/Aquarium-Events/Mermaids?sd=1, Phone: (859) 261-7444

Time: 10:00 am-6:00 pm, Location: Newport Aquarium, Phone: 1-800-406-3474, http://www. newportaquarium.com

Jack O’ L antern Junction September 26th through November 1st You won’t’ want to miss Jack O’Lantern Junction at EnterTRAINment Junction! Halloween fun for the whole family! First walk-thru our trick or treat maze and see kid friendly ghosts, skeletons and more. Stop and color, or see Halloweenville our miniature animated display. Plus come and enjoy the area’s only indoor Pumpkin Patch, where kids get a free mini pumpkin. Also open this year are our two outdoor kid’s train rides themed for the Halloween season. And as always you can experience the world’s largest indoor train display or enjoy hours of fun in our kid’s play area. Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, West Chester, www.entertrainmentjunction.com

C anyon Falls Occurring Daily Some explore the new home to our Asian small-

Old W est F estival Saturdays and Sunday, September 12 through October 18th 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. $12, $6 ages 6-12; free ages 5 and under. Time: 10:00 am-6:00 pm, Location: 1449 Greenbush Cobb Rd., Williamsburg, www. oldwestfestival.com, Phone: (513) 304-0444

Family Artvent u res: Art S top Occurring Every Sunday Visit a docent at an interactive art cart in the galleries. The art cart includes hands-on activities for the whole family. These ART STOPS take place every Sunday at 3 p.m. FREE. Reservations not required. Time: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org, Phone: 513-721-2787

R ide T he Ducks Occurring Daily Through Sunday, November 8th S unflowers September 1st through 6th Here comes the sun… sunflowers, that is! Join us to celebrate the wide variety and many uses of this mammoth flower. Program included in Highfield admission: $5/adult, $4/child ages 2-12. Time: Tue–Sat, 10:45 a.m., 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. & Sun, 1 & 4 p.m., Location: Glenwood Gardens, Cincinnati, www.greatparks.org

Ride the Ducks is Greater Cincinnati’s most unique attraction. Splash down and cruise the Ohio River while exploring the historic waterfronts of Newport, Covington and Cincinnati. Enjoy the ride as we pass the World Peace Bell, Historic Riverside Drive, Great American Ballpark, Paul Brown Stadium and much more aboard an amphibious vehicle crafted from WWII-era DUKW vehicles.

clawed otters, which are back by popular demand and whose cute little faces will melt your heart. You’ll love watching them swim and play next to a real indoor waterfall. Also exhibiting two species of lizard never before seen at Newport Aquarium and don’t forget to say hello to Thunder, a more than 100-year-old snapping turtle and the Aquarium’s oldest resident! Location: Newport Aquarium, http://www. newportaquarium.com

Charley harper for little nat u ralists September 28th through October 2nd Bring your little nature artists to create an art project in Charley Harper’s very child-friendly style of nature art. ($3/child, payable at the door) Time: 12:00pm - 1:00 pm, Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, http://www.greatparks.org, 513-521-7275

Times: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Cost: Adult ( 13+)- $18 Children (2- 12)- $13, Location: Newport Aquarium, Phone: 859-815-1439, http://newport. ridetheducks.com/experience/ticketinformation.aspx SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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PRESCHOOL & DAYCARE

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ENRICHMENT & AFTERSCHOOL ACTIVITIES

PARTIES & ENTERTAINMENT

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FAMILY SERVICES

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SOURCES // familycrafts.about.com, brownielocks.com, holidayinsights.com, zanyholidays.com & thenibble.com

SEPTEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM