0917 cp issuu

Cincinnati

SEPTEMBER 2017

serving cincinnati & northern kentucky

free

fun fall

GETAWAYS Destinations to make the most of the season

5

things you didn’t know ABOUT PRIVATE SCHOOLS WHAT MISPERCEPTIONS DO YOU HAVE?

+ no school

today?

13 IDEAS FOR SOMETHING FUN TO DO!

inside:

" CAN ' T M ISS " F A L L HA P P ENINGS

IN EVERY ISSUE

contents SE P TE M B ER 2 0 1 7

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FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

13 "Can't Miss" Fall Happenings

WOMEN'S HEALTH

5 Things You Didn't Know About Private Schools

COMMENTARY & PARENTING

Cincy's best events this autumn

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Find out what misconceptions you may have

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19 26

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CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // September

Fun Fall Getaways

Not to miss destinations to make the most of the season

26

No School Today?

13 ideas for somethin fun to do!

13 ALL-NE W OB SPACES COMING TO GOOD S A M ARITAN

12 A DAD INFLUENCE 30 A SK THE TE ACHER

IN EVERY ISSUE 06 EDITOR ' S NOTE 08 COM MUNIT Y SP OTLIGHT 10 OUR SOCIAL NE T WORK

RESOURCES & CALENDARS 32 PRESCHOOL & EDUCATION GUIDE 36 SEPTEMBER E VENTS 42 M ARKE TPL ACE 43 FUN & WACK Y C ALENDAR

2017

EDITOR'S NOTE

WORDS BY // SUSAN BRYANT

meet the staff Publisher Mary Wynne Cox // mary@cincinnatiparent.com Editor Susan Bryant // susan@cincinnatiparent.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER + ADVERTISING

Katie Clark // katie@cincinnatiparent.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Charity Kirtley // charity@cincinnatiparent.com Katy Mark // katy@cincinnatiparent.com Advertising Coordinator

Karen Ring // karen@cincinnatiparent.com

Soaking Up September

COMMUNIT Y Outreach + Social Media

Sarah McCosham // sarah@cincinnatiparent.com DIGITAL PUBLISHER

Wendy Hasser // wendy@cincinnatiparent.com

Here’s what’s great about September: #1 There are still plenty of warm days left to enjoy being outside. #2 The kids are back in the routine of school (which means parents can get back in their groove too.) #3 All the things we love about fall – apple picking, colorful leaves, outdoor festivals – are just beginning.

I have to say that #3 is the one I like most (although #2 does run a close second!)

September signals the start of autumn – which for many people is their favorite time of year. If you look forward to fall as much as I do, you’re going to love this issue.

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Considering a little family road trip to take advantage of the season? Check out our article on Fun Fall Getaways for five destinations that make the most of enjoying the great outdoors. If you’re looking for something to do a bit closer to home, try reading 13 “Can’t Miss” Fall Happenings for a list of apple orchards, pumpkin patches and festivals to visit for a day of fun. And don’t miss our September Events at the end of the magazine where we have the details on all the activities you’ll want to mark on your family’s calendar.

As we make this sweet transition from summer into fall, we hope you enjoy this special time of year with your family. From the first sip of apple cider to that last jump in the leaves, kids always find a way to soak up the season – and we hope you do too!

GRAPHICS ASSISTANT

Maria Tancredi // maria@cincinnatiparent.com Business Manager

Roxanne Burns // roxanne@cincinnatiparent.com INTERN

Meg Wynne // meg@cincinnatiparent.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Maggie Loiselle, Sarah McCosham, Deb Krupowicz, Kim Dinan and Pete Gilbert CALENDAR OF EVENTS

calendar@cincinnatiparent.com Contact Us

9435 Waterstone Blvd., Ste. 140, Cincinnati, OH 45249 P: (513) 444-2015 • F: (513) 444-2099 Cincinnati Parent Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2017 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.

IN EVERY ISSUE

spotlight

[community ]

W HAT TO L OOK F OR IN SE P TE M B ER

Get outside!

See all the Queen City has to offer during the Great Outdoor Weekend. Presented

by Green Umbrella, this weekend offers opportunities for kids and adults to sample some of the best outdoor recreation and nature programs in the region. Choose from over 100 events happening September 23rd and 24th which are totally 100% free. Participants in this year’s event include Cincinnati Parks, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Great Parks of Hamilton County, the Cincinnati Nature Center and more. Check out the schedule and hit the great outdoors! http://meetmeoutdoors.org/greatoutdoorweekend/

Labor Day at Stricker’s Grove This Labor Day, venture up to Hamilton to explore one of the area’s best-kept secrets.

Stricker’s Grove is an All-American amusement park that features a mix of roller coasters, classic rides and festival fare. However, this amusement park is only open to the public four days a year, so you really have to plan a visit! Labor Day is one of those rare, open-to-the-public dates, and spending the holiday at this local attraction just seems like the perfect end to the summer. Get unlimited rides and soft drinks for $12.50/person; parking is free and popcorn and cotton candy are just $1. Stricker’s Grove is open from 1-8 pm on September 4th. www.strickersgrove.com

Bluegrass for Babies Bluegrass for Babies returns for its 9th year on September 23rd at Eden Park’s Seasongood Pavilion. This event is a fundraiser for Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Center for the Prevention of Preterm Birth, which provides highly specialized care to newborns facing devastating medical conditions. The concert, which runs from 3-9 pm, features music from top bluegrass bands, including Jake Speed and the Freddies, The Redemptioners, the Comet Bluegrass All-Stars and Jennifer Ellis Music. You can also expect lots of family friendly activities from local vendors (including a Cincinnati Parent booth featuring our famous prize wheel), delicious concessions and much more. Admission for kids 12 and under is free; adults pay $20 at the event – save by ordering tickets in advance. www.healthyrootsfoundation.org/wp/bluegrassfor-babies/overview/

Taft Jr. is back!

September means the start of the school year, beginning of fall – and the return of Taft Jr.! This Taft Museum program will run the first Thursday of the month from September through May and aims to teach 3-5 year olds about museum manners and art in a fun, engaging environment. September’s “Strike a Pose” class will focus on movement and meaning, letting kids see how artists depict mood and emotion through their subjects’ poses. This hour-long program also features a story time, craft and close-up encounter with a piece of art making for a perfect parent-child date! Strike a Pose happens September 7th at 11:15 am and is free for members and children (adults pay $10 in advance or $12 the day of the program). www.taftmuseum.org/taft-jr 08

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Been to the new Blue Manatee yet?

This beloved store has teamed up with Brazee Street Studios to create one-of-a-kind glasswork for the space, both inside and out. This independent bookstore is an active member of the Oakley community: from story times at Sleepy Bee Café (Tuesdays at 10 am) to class collaborations with Brazee (like the “Make a Mess” activity on September 18th), Blue Manatee is a happy reminder for Cincinnati parents to shop local - and be proud of their city! www.bluemanateebooks.com/home/ activatees.html

Something wicked this way comes

Calling all Cubs!

Summer vacation may be over, but the family fun is just getting started in your local Cub Scout pack. Cub Scouts is about adventure, learning and unique experiences that your family won’t find anywhere else. Spend time with your boys as you enjoy everything from science and robotics to sleeping on the field at Cincinnati Reds Scout Night. The road to your son’s success is right before your eyes, but it’s up to you to help him take the first step! Boys enrolled in Kindergarten through fifth grade are eligible to become part of their local pack, where they’ll make friends, learn life skills and develop values that last a lifetime.

Sign-up week is Aug. 28-Sept. 8, but don’t worry, families can join in anytime. Just visit gocubscouts.com/join to locate a sign-up spot near you, and get ready to start building your family’s next adventure! http://gocubscouts.com/join/

This fall you can be just like Dorothy, dropped into the land of Oz and put right at the center of the battle between the Wicked Witch of the West and the Good Witch of the South. Why all the witchy drama? Well, that’s explained in Wicked. Winner of over 50 major awards, including a Grammy and three Tony Awards, Wicked has been hailed as “Broadway’s biggest blockbuster” – and it’s coming to Cincinnati this fall! Watch as two young girls meet in the land of Oz, and follow along as their fates unfurl like the bricks on the Yellow Brick Road. Wicked will be at the Aronoff Center September 13-October 15. www.cincinnatiarts.org/events/detail/wicked

Raptor rescue Raptor Inc. is a hidden gem that is absolutely worth a visit. Located off 1-275 in Milford, Raptor Inc. rehabilitates over 250 injured or orphaned birds of prey annually, and strives to educate the public on the importance of these raptors and their influence on our environment. On the last Sunday of each month from 1-4 pm (March through November), Raptor Inc. offers a free open house program that’s open to everyone. September 24th, Raptor Inc. is celebrating fall with its “Great Outdoor Weekend” celebration. Come see what this non-profit organization is all about and learn how these birds have overcome their harrowing past. http://raptorinc.org/open-houses/

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IN EVERY ISSUE

[ B E C O M E PA R T O F T H E C I N C I N N A T I P A R E N T ]

social network

We’re chatting up a storm over on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Come find us for quick laughs throughout the day, parenting tips, must-sees-in-the-city, giveaways and more!

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Come along with our CP Insiders as we check out sneak peeks around town and show off other behind-the-scenes fun.

A recent op-ed on the parenting website Babble argued that preschool wasn't necessary - at least not for everyone. With back-to-school season in full swing, we asked Cincinnati Parent Facebook readers to sound off on their thoughts about preschool.

“I would say that, if you are going the traditional education route, it is beneficial to expose your child, before kindergarten, to a structured, classroom environment. This doesn't necessarily need to be preschool. I believe it makes the transition easier.” – Amy L.

“I don't think it's necessary, but it is very beneficial in all areas of learning including social behavior.” – Steve D.

“I do not think that it is necessary, if the parent is making sure to teach their child all the essentials covered in preschool.

However, I do think that preschool is very helpful and I plan to send all of my kids to preschool. Although kids can get interaction through ballet class and church (as mentioned in the article), there is something to be said about a kid having a weekly routine in which they are under the instruction of another adult and away from mom or dad for more than an hour. I look at preschool as practice before they are in kindergarten.” – Zandria S.

@cincyparent

Highfield Discovery Garden

Highfield Discovery Garden is quite possibly the most magical place in Cincinnati – and it seems our followers agree!

PETALS & PEDALS AT KROHN

No season in Cincinnati is complete without a show at Krohn Conservatory.

This summer's Petals & Pedals was one of the most colorful and picturesque shows we'd ever seen!

be on the lookout for this month's online contests!

Butler County Donut Trail

The Butler County Donut Trail is the sweetest (and most epic) journey your family will ever take! Ten donut shoppes in Butler County... this challenge isn't for the faint of heart.

Win Lazer Kraze Mission Passes, Tickets to Kings Island, a Gift Card to Jeff Ruby's, and Cincinnati Museum Center tickets!

we're

@cincyparent

We have our nose to the grindstone on Twitter, retweeting your favorite local hotspot announcements, parenting trends and more.

Want the scoop on the latest things to do around town?

Check out writer Sarah McCosham’s award-winning blog Where Are We Going Today? To find all the kid-friendly adventures to take advantage of in the Cincinnati area.

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COMMENTARY & PARENTING WORDS BY // PETE GILBERT

A Dad Influence “One day you’ll look back and miss this time…”

I didn't believe the elderly lady telling me this at the grocery store six years ago, and I don't believe her now. You see, when I first started staying home with my kids full-time, they were tough ages: newborn, two and four. Sure the snuggles were great, and there’s nothing like having a brand new baby take a nap on your chest, but do I miss those days? Not for a second.

Let’s go back to the scene of where this woman uttered this phrase – the grocery store. What she didn't see before we bumped into her in the produce section, was how difficult it was just getting to the store in the first place.

There were diapers that needed changed, two pair of shoes that required tying, coats that needed zipped and everyone requiring assistance getting buckled into his or her respective car seat.

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Once we’d finally made it to the store, it was time to find a strategic parking place. The goal was to find a parking spot close to a cart return.

This would allow me to grab the baby from the car and put her into a cart without having to carry her and hold two other kids’ hands at the same time. Then, once inside the store, I’d pray there was still a shopping cart that looked like a race car so my two oldest could keep themselves occupied while we shopped. No race car this particular day, which resulted in tears and fidgety children.

This was precisely the moment when we saw the elderly lady. My youngest was eating her way through the cardboard packaging to get to the Cheerios inside the box, and my two oldest were hanging off the sides of the grocery cart like a couple of garbage collectors, tossing

anything they could get their sticky toddler hands on into the cart.

What do my grocery trips look like now? It’s pretty straightforward actually. My kids and I walk into the store, tearing the grocery list in half, splitting up and meeting at the checkout once we’re finished. Sure, this new method costs me a pack of gum or mints for their effort, but it’s totally worth it.

Do I miss those good ole’ days? Not a chance.

Follow along on my journeys with my wife, three kids, and (now) two dogs at A Dad Influence on Facebook, Twitter @adadinfluence and Instagram a_dad_influence.

WOMEN'S HEALTH – BRANDED CONTENT

BROUGHT TO YOU BY // TRIHEALTH HOSPITALS

All-New OB Spaces Coming to Good Samaritan Widely regarded as one of the top delivery hospitals in Ohio, TriHealth Good Samaritan Hospital will soon have state-of-the-art maternity spaces to match its clinical reputation. “From midwife-attended natural births to high-risk, complicated deliveries, we are proud of the excellent care that we provide and are thrilled to be able to offer an updated, welcoming environment with private rooms to all of our maternity patients,” says Jason Niehaus, Senior Vice President, Hospital Operations.

The first phase of the project—fully updating the Mother and Baby Unit—was completed last year.

All post-partum rooms are now private.

Renovations for the Special Care Unit for high-risk maternity patients who need to stay in the hospital, sometimes for weeks, during their pregnancy were completed in August. These rooms are also private. “We want all of our

patients and families to have the best possible experience,” says Kristin Coppage, M.D., Site Director of Good Samaritan Hospital and a specialist in maternal-fetal medicine.

The new maternity gateway will be through the main Dixmyth entrance. Twenty-four-hour valet parking will be available, providing easy to access the new OB triage area, which will be twice the size of the current space. Construction began in July and will be completed in January 2018.

“This is where all patients will come for initial assessment, whether they’re in labor or experiencing pregnancy complications,” says Dr. Coppage. A final set of renovations in Labor and Delivery will include two new critical care labor-and-delivery rooms, providing state-of- the-art care for the highest risk deliveries.

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WORDS BY // SARAH MCCOSHAM

13 “Can’t Miss” Fall Happenings Cincy’s best events this autumn

Each fall the Cincinnati area delivers some of the best activities of the entire year. We’ve done the legwork for you and picked thirteen favorites your family is sure to love. So, grab a jacket and some hot apple cider and head out for a day of fun!

Apple Picking at A&M Farm Orchard

U-Pick orchard is open Friday-Sunday; Check Facebook page for times www.facebook.com/AM-FarmOrchard-151103401573670/

Apples, apples, apples – A&M Farm Orchard has some of the best u-pick apples in town!

Located in Midland, OH, A&M Farm Orchard is definitely off the beaten path, and is the perfect place to have a little adventure. Apple availability varies by week; you’ll find Galas, Jonathans, Grimes Goldens and more.

Apple U-Pick at Iron’s Fruit Farm Call for hours www.ironsfruitfarm.com

This farm in Lebanon has u-pick crops all year round, but their apples are their pièce de résistance. Families will enjoy tractor-pulled hayrides to and from the orchards to see row upon row of fresh, ripe apples. Irons has their orchard organized by apple type, and each weekend, a different area is open for picking.

(There are varieties available for u-pick through October.) There is no fee to pick apples; you’ll simply pay by the pound. While you’re there, be sure to pick up some of Iron’s famous apple cider donuts – no fall in Cincinnati is complete without them!

Ohio Renaissance Festival

Sept. 2-Oct. 29 (Weekends and Labor Day) www.renfestival.com There are 30 acres in Harveysburg, Ohio, like nothing from this century. Visit and step back in time to 16th century England. Jousts, jugglers, jesters and minstrels are part of the more than 100 performances daily on 12 stages. This is a family-friendly event filled with nostalgia, tradition… and giant turkey legs!

Old West Fest

Sept. 9-Oct. 15 (Weekends) www.oldwestfestival.com This is perhaps the most unique fall festival around. The Old West Fest transports visitors back in time to a historic American era, the Wild West. Kids will enjoy train rides, panning for gold and games such as the Santa Fe Slingshot, Beginner Bow and Arrow and Lucky Levi’s Lasso.

Cowboy hats and boots definitely encouraged!

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Oktoberfest Zinzinnati

Fall Festival Weekends at Shaw Farm

Sept. 15-17 in Downtown Cincinnati www.oktoberfestzinzinnati.com

Sept. 16-Oct. 29 (Weekends) www.shawfarms.com/ChildrensActivities

Cincinnati (or Zinzinnati) is a proud German city, most evidenced by our annual Oktoberfest. Not only is ours the largest Oktoberfest in the country, it’s also the best (that’s a fact!) There’s the Running of the Wieners race, World’s Largest Chicken Dance, live entertainment and tons of family friendly fun. Of course, the main event at Oktoberfest is the food – and if you want schnitzel, sauerkraut, sausages, bratwurst and authentic German ales, well, you’ve come to the right place!

This Milford farm is a tristate favorite, offering families a good, old-fashioned fall festival experience. From hayrides and horse-drawn wagon rides to pedal-cart races and a 12-acre corn maze, one visit to Shaw Farms will surely be the start of an annual tradition for your family.

Fall on the Farm at Blooms & Berries

Preparing for Night at the Cincinnati Nature Center Sept. 16 from 5-10 p.m. www.cincynature.org/events-and-programs/ events-18/preparing-for-night-85/ Preparing for Night is the Cincinnati Nature Center’s biggest event of the year, and the perfect way to kick off fall. Bring your flashlights and discover the secret sights and sounds of nature at night at this fun-filled family event, which also features food trucks, ice cream and live music.

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Sept. 23-Oct 31 www.bloomsandberries.com/check-out-our- fall-fun-festival Year after year, Fall on the Farm offers local families an experience they look forward to.

Blooms & Berries’ Fall Festival is one of the most beloved in Cincinnati and a visit with your family will not disappoint. Pumpkin patches, cow trains, live animals, sunflowers and a 7-acre corn maze make Blooms & Berries a unique family experience.

Young’s Dairy Pick Your Own Pumpkins Daily beginning Sept. 23 https://youngsdairy.com/pick-your-ownpumpkins/

Looking for the perfect pumpkin for your stoop? Young’s Dairy is your best bet! Starting September 23rd, head to Young’s and traipse through 30 acres of orange-speckled fields to find your Halloween pumpkin. A trip to Young’s is always an experience, and when you go to their u-pick field, you’ll be treated to hayrides and family friendly activities. Be sure to mark your calendars for October 7-8: Young’s Fall Farm Festival is Yellow Springs biggest event of the year, and well worth a trip.

Neltner’s Fall Fest

Sept. 30-Oct. 29 www.neltnersfarm.com Neltner’s is a family owned and operated farm whose fall festival is the epitome of family friendly.

You’ll enjoy pony rides, a barn with friendly animals to feed, barrel train rides and horse-drawn wagon rides to the pumpkin patch. Kids will go crazy for the outdoor train display, and parents will appreciate the pumpkin spice wine. And everyone will love the farm’s ambiance – there’s a reason this picturesque place is popular wedding venue!

County Applefest/LM&M Applefest Train Rides Sept. 30 in Downtown Lebanon www.lebanonrr.com/applefest.html Lebanon Country Applefest is a quintessential fall festival – and when this fest is combined with a ride on Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad, it’s magic.

On September 30th, head to Lebanon for a train ride on the LM&M Railroad – Warren County’s fall colors will be beautiful from the rails! Afterwards, partake in Applefest, a celebration of autumn’s official fruit, complete with vendors, artisans, live music, and, of course, lots of delicious food.

Fall Farm Fun at Burwinkel Farms

Oct. 1-31 at 4359 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton http://burwinkelfarms.com/ Join Burwinkel Farms in October for some Fall Farm Fun! Enjoy hayrides to the pumpkin patch, corn mazes, a punch-card maze, corn pool, straw tunnel, scavenger hunt, sensory station and sunflower field (when in bloom). Reasonable prices and fun for everyone!

Waynesville, Ohio's 48th Annual Sauerkraut Festival Saturday, Oct. 14, 9:00am – 8:00pm Sunday, Oct. 15, 9:00am – 6:00pm www.sauerkrautfestival.com

Come to this festival for more than seven tons of sauerkraut served in traditional and non-traditional ways. The festival has everything from sauerkraut pizza, cabbage rolls and german sundaes to cookies, pies and so much more. A variety of hand crafted booths will feature 450+ vendors from over 29 states. This fun family festival is based on food, crafts and entertainment.

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5 Things You Didn’t Know

About Private Schools Find out what misperceptions you may have WORDS BY // MAGGIE LOISELLE

There are more than 33,000 private schools across the country, educating 5 million – or roughly 10 percent – of all U.S. students. Yet despite those numbers, many parents don’t even consider private school for their child. Why not?

Concerns over affordability, diversity and a perceived culture of exclusivity often top the list. But advocates stress that much has changed in the last 20 years and private schools often lead the way when it comes to innovative education, creating community and welcoming all.

Here are five things you may not know about private schools:

1) Private schools are often more affordable than you think.

The price tag of a private education is one of the most common reasons families don’t consider independent schools. What you may not know is that a majority of private schools offer need-based financial aid. How? Private schools often have endowments and active alumni fundraising groups, giving them the f lexibility to budget money for this purpose.

For example, last school year, The Summit Country Day School, near Hyde Park, awarded more than $3.8 million in need-based tuition assistance, merit and endowed scholarships to 36 percent of its student body. St. Xavier High School, in Finneytown, awarded $4.1 million in tuition assistance to about 40 percent of its students.

The process of applying for financial aid at private schools is a lot like applying for aid at the college level: - Families of students who’ve been accepted at a particular school (or at several schools) fill out a form online through an independent company outlining their income, assets, expenses and any extenuating circumstances.

- The program provides them with a dollar figure of what their family should be able to contribute.

- The school uses that number to budget available financial aid and offer a financial aid package.

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“We always encourage families to talk to the school’s financial aid person early in the process,” says Myra McGovern, Vice President of Media for the National Association of Independent Schools(NAIS), a nonprofit membership organization for more than 1,500 U.S. private schools.

“Find out how much the school actually costs, ask about financial aid options and deadlines. Chances are, you’ll find out that there is a way your child can attend.”

NAIS offers information for families about financial aid on its parentfocused website at http://parents.nais. org/afford/paying-for-school/.

2) There are private schools for every age/need/faith/interest/ ability.

Think all private schools are the same?

Think again. From Montessori and Waldorf schools, to Catholic and Jesuit schools, military schools and those that serve gifted students and kids with learning differences, independent schools cover nearly all facets of the educational spectrum.

“Private schools are freer to experiment with different pedagogies and approaches to education than public schools,” says Joe McTighe, Executive Director of the Council for American Private Education, a coalition that represents more than 80 percent of U.S. private school enrollment. “As a parent, you can figure out what kind of environment is best for your child, whether that’s a creative community or one that provides more structure, and then you can find a school that provides exactly that.”

Private schools also vary in location (urban, suburban or rural), by size and by the age range that they serve. School search websites like PrivateSchoolReview.com and GreatSchools.org allow you to narrow down schools by location, size, focus and age range.

3) Private schools strive to be diverse.

Forget the outdated stereotype of private schools filled exclusively with wealthy, white kids. These days, private schools pride themselves on creating student bodies that reflect a range of diversity, including students of different races and ethnicities, those with varying socioeconomic backgrounds and those who practice different faiths.

“Our students represent 75 different ZIP codes and 33 different home school districts in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, and we have children of families from 25 different countries,” says Kelley Schiess, Assistant Head of School at The Summit Country Day School. “We also have a diversity in faiths and perspectives, and because religion is part of the curriculum, we’re exposing children to world religions and Christian service.”

Check the National Center for Education Statistics (https://nces.ed.gov/) or school search sites like GreatSchools.org to find school diversity information.

4) Athletics and extracurricular activities are often required.

Activities like joining a sports team, taking part in the school play or participating in a club are often mandatory at private schools. At smaller schools, they might need everyone to participate to be able to have a full team, while other schools make sports a portion of the school day. It’s part of a larger mission to educate the whole child, advocates say.

“It’s often something that’s more philosophical than simply playing sports,” McGovern, with NAIS, says. “It’s about fostering community, encouraging teamwork and understanding being active and leading a healthy lifestyle is an important part of becoming a successful adult.”

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At McNicholas High School in Mt. Washington, Director of Admissions Christina Mullis says that students aren’t required to take part in sports or clubs (although 90 percent of students do) but they are required to complete 40 service hours during their high school tenure. “It is very important for our culture and our community for our kids to get involved,” she says. “Service is at the core of our mission, and it’s important that students know that you don’t have to go to a foreign country or build a house to be of service.”

Most independent schools outline their sports, extracurricular and service requirements online.

5) Private schools can be set up in different ways.

Not all private schools are organized in the same fashion. The vast majority are nonprofit institutions that operate as tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations, while others may fall under the umbrella of a church or diocese that is tax-exempt.

There are also for-profit schools, which are not tax-exempt.

What does this mean for parents? You’ll want to know how your child’s prospective school is organized so you can understand how it’s governed.

Independent schools typically have boards of directors that they are accountable to, while some private schools are run by a single person with no other checks and balances in place. Most schools will spell out their leadership and governing structure online.

The lesson here is that it would be a mistake to dismiss private schools in your area before you learn more about them.

You may just find they’re more affordable, diverse and better suited to your child’s personality and learning style than you ever considered.

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Fun Fall

getaways

WORDS BY // KIM DINAN

Sleep among the trees in a bona fide treehouse

View fall foliage from the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway

It’s autumn, the season of crisp air, blue skies and a colorful display of fall foliage. This is the time of year when there’s no better place to be than outside enjoying the beautiful weather. Whether you and your family want to spend a single afternoon hiking in the forest or a long weekend camping under the stars, we’ve hand-picked five fun fall getaways to help you take advantage of the season.

(Glenmont, OH)

(Nelsonville, Ohio)

Situated in the Mohican National Forest in northeastern Ohio, The Mohicans is a familyrun business that rents rustic yet beautiful treehouses and cabins to adventurous guests.

Treat your family to a Swiss Family Robinson inspired getaway in one of three treehouses on the property. The Mohicans’ most famous dwelling, the Little Red Treehouse, was designed by respected treehouse builder Pete Nelson and featured on the TV show “Treehouse Masters.” The cozy treehouse has a large stained-glass window, outdoor shower, swaying extension bridge and wrap-around deck – perfect for soaking in the autumn sun and watching the leaves fall from the trees.

Originally built in 1864 to haul salt and coal out of the Hocking Valley, the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway has been delighting recreational riders for over forty years. The train runs on the weekends from Memorial Day through the last weekend of October, but due to its popularity during the height of fall foliage season, the trains also run on Fridays in October. This two-hour scenic ride through the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio delights passengers as the train chugs down the track from Nelsonville to Logan, Ohio. Both heated and open-air cars are available to passengers, giving leaf lovers a unique way to catch the colors as they pass.

The Mohicans

Hocking Valley Scenic Railway

www.themohicans.net/

www.hvsry.org/

22650 Vess Road, Glenmont, OH

33 West Canal Street, Nelsonville, OH

(740) 599-9030

(740) 249-1452

September 2017 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 23

Pitch a tent at the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Count the stars at an International Dark Sky Park

(Golden Pond, Kentucky)

(Montville, Ohio)

Nestled on a peninsula between Kentucky and Tennessee, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is a 170,000-acre outdoor lover’s dream. The park, which boasts some of the largest tracts of undeveloped forest in the eastern U.S., has over 300 miles of shoreline, 500 miles of hiking, biking and horse trails and is home to over 240 species of birds. Kids of all ages love the 700-acre elk and bison prairie and the Woodlands Nature Station, a nature watching area offering educational programming. But, of course, it’s the natural beauty that dominates and delights. With over 1,400 developed, primitive and backcountry campsites available, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is the perfect place to pop a tent and treat the family to a weekend in the great outdoors.

Less than 100 years ago it was possible to look into the night sky and see an unbelievable number of stars. Today, due to light pollution, there are many places in the United States where stars are no longer visible to the naked eye. Children born today may never see a night sky bursting with stars. For those kids, the Milky Way will be a natural phenomenon they only ever hear about.

But the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) is trying to change that. Committed to protecting the night skies for present and future generations, IDA certifies dark-sky parks, communities and sanctuaries around the world. Geauga Observatory Park, located in Montville, Ohio, is one such place.

Named a silver tier Dark Sky Park in 2011, it is one of only 37 dark-sky parks in the entire U.S. Pack a picnic dinner and a blanket and bring your family out for a nighttime viewing of our aweinspiring sky.

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area https://landbetweenthelakes.us/ 238 Visitor Center Drive, Golden Pond, KY (800) 525-7077

Take a hike (or a bike) in Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Peninsula, Ohio) Ohio’s only National Park shines in the fall and makes for a great day trip destination or a longer weekend getaway. The park is rich in both history and natural beauty and offers visitors an endless amount of outdoor fun. Bird watching, canoeing and kayaking, family hikes, picnics and horse trails are just some of the recreational opportunities available in the park. Pack your bikes and plan a family bicycling trip on the Ohio and Erie Towpath Trail. The trail follows the route of the historic Erie Canal. Before construction began on the canal in 1825, Ohio was a remote wilderness. The canal made travel through Ohio possible, enabling the state to be settled. Between the months of April and October cyclists can bike the Ohio and Erie Towpath Trail one way and return to their cars by riding the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for only $3.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park 1550 Boston Mills Road, Peninsula, OH 330-657-2572

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Geauga Observatory Park www.geaugaparkdistrict.org/parks/ observatorypark.shtml 10610 Clay Street, Montville, OH (440) 279-0820

This time of year just begs for a little road trip to take advantage of the season. So, grab the kids and hop in the car for a fun getaway before that first snowflake flies!

no school today?

13 Ideas for something fun to do!

WORDS BY // Sarah McCosham

School is in full swing now and parents everywhere are aligning their schedules and plans according to the academic calendar. But what is a Cincinnati Parent to do with those random holidays, inservice days and fall breaks that undoubtedly create chaos in your regular routine? We’ve come to the rescue with this list of 13 ideas to keep handy next time you’re in a pinch!

3. If you’re lamenting the (imminent and inevitable) end to Reds season, you’ll be happy to know the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum is open year-round. The current Red to Bronze exhibit is a must for Redlegs lovers. http://cincinnati.reds.mlb.com/cin/hof/

4. Star Wars™ and the Power of Costume (daily through Oct. 1) is a must for any young Jedi, budding fashionista, film buff or fan of popular culture. This exhibit celebrates the power of ideas – and there’s no better place to do this than the Cincinnati Museum Center. www.cincymuseum.org/star-wars

5. Enjoy the arts this fall at the Cincinnati Art Museum. Admission is always free, and there’s so many mediums and eras of art to enjoy, your kids will surely be inspired. http://cincinnatiartmuseum.org

6. This year’s fall show at Krohn Conservatory, Grass Roots: The Arts of Nature, is a celebration of natural beauty that will leave your kids in awe.

Not sure how younger kids will do at a plant show? Don’t worry – the beloved Trains of Applied Imagination (usually reserved for just the holiday show) will make an early appearance to delight little train enthusiasts. This show runs Tuesdays-Sundays from Sept. 9-Oct. 29. www.cincinnatiparks.com/krohn-conservatory/

1. Take a mini road trip to the National Museum of the U. S. Air Force in Dayton. It’s open daily, has free admission and parking, and is a unique experience for kids and adults of all ages. www.nationalmuseum.af.mil

2. Feeling hungry? Pick up a passport from the Butler County Visitors Bureau and take on the Donut Trail! With 10 delicious destinations in Butler County, you could easily complete this sweet journey over a few days this fall.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // September

www.greatparks.org/parks/winton-woods/parkys-farm

8. With topics such as “Honeybees” (Sept. 19-24), “Fantastic Fall” (Oct. 3-8) and “Apples” (Oct. 10-15), the classes at Highfield Discovery Garden are as educational as they are fun. Bonus: you can explore the dreamy playground while you’re there. (Open Tuesday-Sunday in September and October.) www.greatparks.org/parks/glenwood-gardens/the-highfielddiscovery-garden

www.gettothebc.com/donut-trail

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7. Parky’s Farm is a Cincinnati institution, and there’s no better time to enjoy Parky’s than the fall. Starting in October, you’ll find kids’ classes at Parky’s during the week, and the popular Halloween Nights festival (complete with wagon rides!) on Thursdays-Sundays (Oct. 12-29).

2017

9. Something wicked this way comes: Sept. 13-Oct. 15, catch Wicked at the Aronoff Center. There are plenty of matinees and shows at 6:30 p.m., so families of all ages can enjoy this award winner. www.cincinnatiarts.org/events/detail/wicked

10. Fall is the time to visit the Cincinnati Nature Center. Take your kids for a hike or hit up the Nature PlayScape, where kids can build, splash and even play in the mud. (Open daily.) www.cincynature.org/visit-us/rowe-woods-1/ nature-playscape-5/

11. Glasswork for kids? Absolutely. Check out a glass class at Brazee Street Studios. You’ll find art classes for older kids and story times for younger kids - no experience necessary. www.brazeestreetstudios.com/collections/ kids-classes

12. Enjoy a crisp fall day the Cincinnati Zoo – bonus points for a #TeamFiona sighting! (Open daily.) http://cincinnatizoo.org

13. Finally, for those days you just can’t take off from work, there’s Skidaddles. Offering flexible, convenient, drop-in child care, let the staff at Skidaddles be part of your parenting village. www.skidaddles.com

Looking for more ideas? Be sure to bookmark Cincinnati Parent’s Online Calendar (http://cincinnatiparent.com/ calendar/) for the latest and greatest daily happenings in Cincy.

September 2017 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 27

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COMMENTARY & PARENTING WORDS BY // DEB KRUPOWICZ

Ask the Teacher Helping kids with Asperger’s, homework overload and preferential seating

Q:

My seventhgrade son has a diagnosis of Asperger’s syndrome.

His teachers have worked very hard to help him be as comfortable as possible in the classroom and have offered a great deal of support. However, big groups, particularly in the hall and in the cafeteria, still cause a lot of anxiety for him. What can I do to help him with this?

A:

It is understandable that those times and places pose a challenge for your son. The controlled environment of the classroom offers a continuity of routine and expectation that other less-structured school situations cannot.

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Consider speaking with his counselor to suggest that he be dismissed a minute or two early from each class. Having a chance to get to his locker and get it opened before the congestion and noise become a factor might help ease his anxiety. Getting to the cafeteria and settling in a bit ahead of the crowd may help, too.

A seat at a table that is at the perimeter of the cafeteria might allow him to feel less confined, without so many other students passing by him and brushing against his chair. The noise may seem less oppressive if he is not completely surrounded by its source.

If the seat selection is not possible or does not help ease your son’s anxiety, ask the counselor to find a quiet place for your son to have lunch. Having an opportunity to truly relax rather than enduring another tense situation could reinvigorate him for the afternoon.

2017

Q:

I am so aggravated at the amount of homework my fourth grader brings home each night. It seems like she does not have time to do anything else after school. Should I set up a meeting with the principal to voice my concern?

A:

One of the big adjustments at the start of the school year is getting back in homework mode. Being engaged all day is, in and of itself, tiring. It takes a few weeks to build up the stamina school requires. When homework tops off a long day, it can be tough for kids to stay focused and productive.

Give this a little bit of time. Once your daughter has gotten acclimated to the daily demands of school, she will probably have

less homework and will likely be able to complete what she does have more efficiently.

If that does not occur, talk with your daughter about how much time is being given at school for homework. Is she using that time well? Sometimes the lure of socializing with peers takes priority in a maturing student’s mind. Is her work taking so much time because she is struggling to understand the content or what the assignment requires?

Students are often reluctant to ask questions at the beginning of the year, unsure of how the teacher will respond.

As October approaches, if your daughter’s homework load still seems out of balance, schedule a conference with her teacher.

Invite your daughter to lead the discussion by asking the teacher for suggestions about how she could handle the homework more effectively.

Q:

My son struggles with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

His IEP has always included “preferential seating” in the list of accommodations. I am embarrassed to say that I am not sure exactly what that means.

Should my son be stating where he prefers to sit?

A:

Preferential seating simply means that special attention should be given to where the student sits so that the greatest learning can occur. Usually this means that the student is placed near the teacher so that there are fewer things to distract him or her from instruction. Sometimes this includes sitting near the front where the board and other visuals are easily seen. It can also include deliberately seating a child near someone who is very focused so that there is a visual cue that serves as a reminder to the child to return to the task at hand.

For students who can only attend when they are also moving, preferential seating may look very different.

Those students may function best seated to the side of the room or in the back of the classroom so that they can stand or move more freely without distracting others.

Finding effective placement for your son may take some time as the teacher gets to know him and his classmates. If your son tells you that he is having trouble listening to the lesson because he is too far away from the teacher or that he cannot concentrate to do his work because others around him aren’t working, you should let his teacher know. Don’t be disappointed if she doesn’t make a change right away. She may want to give your son a chance to adapt to his seat placement; it does not mean that she is not following his education plan.

Ask the Teacher 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.

September 2017 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 31

EDUCATION RESOURCES [sponsored listings]

PRESCHOOL &

EDUCATION GUIDE CHILDCaRE & PRESCHOOL

The Campus at Kids First We have FULL DAY Kindergarten! Located inside the nationally acclaimed Kids First Sports Center, The Campus offers the premier early learning experience for children ages 6 weeks through Kindergarten. As the only early learning center in the area that makes physical education a top priority, The Campus at Kids First gives your child an academic edge by integrating a world class physical education (including gymnastics, basketball, yoga and soccer!) curriculum in to the daily schedule, at NO additional cost! Our carefully selected and loving teachers utilize a relevance-based curriculum combined with child-directed play to make learning FUN and start each child on their journey to becoming a life-long learner.

7900 E Kemper Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, www. theCampusKF.com, Phone: (513) 629-KIDS, info@ theCampusKF.com

Chai Tots Early Childhood Center Academic excellence via a unique blend of Jewish and Montessori education offering strong academics, stressing life skills, interpersonal relationship skills and nurturing a love for life-long learning. Individualized curriculum customized for each student, expansive naturally lit rooms, low student ratio. Specials include yoga, music, Hebrew, Spanish, dance, drama, art and Tae Kwon Do. Flexible schedules, before and aftercare, web cams and after-school enrichment available. Transportation available to/from Mason schools. Limited space - now enrolling!

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

CINCINNATI HILLS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY CHCA is a vibrant, multidenominational, college preparatory school serving students Age 2- grade 12.

We’re investing $9MM to deliver new levels of student engagement through expanded facilities including an expanded Early Childhood Learning Center, Innovation Labs, a Greenhouse, and Engineering and Applied Science Labs. CHCA is leading the way to higher levels of cognitive, relational, and spiritual engagement for each student.

11525 Snider Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Natalie Pfister, Enrollment Director, Phone: (513)2470900, Email: admissions@chca-oh.org, www.chca-oh. org, Ages 2 - Grade 12, Enrollment: 1350

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THE COMPASS SCHOOL 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. NAEYC Accredited. Call today for your personal tour.

9370 Waterstone Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Meghan Schymanski, Phone: 513-683-8833, Fax: 513-683-8456, Email: compass.meghan@gmail. com, www.TheCompassSchool.com

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

6408 Thornberry Ct.,, Mason, oh 45040, Contact: Emilie Parry, Phone: 513-770-6776, Email: creativetotsmason@gmail.com, www.creativetotsmason. com, Grades: Toddler: 18 months-3 years, Preschool: 3-4 years; Pre-K: 4-5 years

YMCA of Greater Cincinnati 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: 513-362YMCA, 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

Central Montessori Academy Authentic Montessori environment, serving preschool through 6th grade. Small class sizes allow each student to progress at an individual pace. Part-time preschool and extended day are available. Our school is a place of discovery, curiosity, respect and enthusiasm. Come take a tour and see for yourself.

1904 Springdale Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231, Contact: Kristin Patterson, Phone: 513-742-5800, Fax: 513-7425870, Email: info@centralmontessoriacademy.com, www.CentralMontessoriAcademy.com, Grades: Preschool- Grade 6, Enrollment: 100

Children’s Meeting House Montessori School Children's Meeting House Montessori School has been proudly educating students from preschool through 6th grade using the principles of the Montessori philosophy since 1972. CMH offers a variety of preschool, enrichment and before/after school options to meet each family’s needs. Partner with our devoted staff of experienced and Montessori trained teachers throughout your child’s most developmental years. CMH – where learning happens, naturally. Find out more or schedule a tour on our website.

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: 150

Country Hills Montessori Providing programs for 3 to K. Small, individualized classes with low student-teacher ratios, under the guidance of Montessori certified teachers, in an 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

Little Sprouts Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten Little Sprouts Montessori nurtures the natural curiosity and enthusiasm of children, helping them develop a lifetime love of learning. Our goal is to empower children to discover and hone their strengths as they explore the world. We recognize the importance of individualized education, and maintain a 1:6 ratio.

7131 Plainfield Road, Deer Park, OH 45236, Contact: Christie Sawyer, Phone: 513-697-9021, Email: csawyer@ leavesoflearning.org, www.little-sprouts.org, Grades: Preschool & Kindergarten, Enrollment: Families choose mornings two to four days per week (T/TH and/or W/F), and/or afternoon sessions on Tuesday and Thursday.

September 2017 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 33

Mercy Montessori Center Mercy Montessori is Cincinnati's first Catholic Montessori elementary school and provides students with a personalized education. Mercy offers a sliding scale tuition model, in-school swimming instruction starting at age three, and attracts students from over 50 zip codes. Mercy educates the whole child and develops a strong foundation for learning.

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

Montessori Academy of Cincinnati Our goal is to instill a love of learning in each child and to assure a solid grounding in the basics of education that will help each student achieve his potential. We provide an outstanding, experienced staff, low student-teacher ratios, a nurturing, student-centered approach, and on-site before-school and after-school care.

8293 Duke Boulevard, Mason, Ohio 45040, Phone: 513-3987773, Email: info@montacademy.org, http://www.montacademy. org/, Ages/Grades: 18 months through 8th grade

The New School Montessori Cincinnati's only school accredited by the American Montessori Society. Centrally located and surrounded by wooded play yards and gardens, students benefit from a nurturing environment where Montessori-credentialed staff support high academic and personal achievement. Full-day, half-day with healthy lunches included in tuition. ISACS and AMS accredited program.

3 Burton Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229, Contact: Ceara Comstock, Phone: (513)281-7999, Email: ceara.c@ newschoolmontessori.com, www.newschool montessori.com, Grades: 3-year-olds through Grade 6, Enrollment: 135

NON–PUBLIC

ST. GERTRUDE SCHOOL Saint Gertrude School offers academic excellence in the Dominican tradition: preaching Truth, practicing virtue, and loving one another in Christ. Students from 21 school districts. IOWA testing ranked 4th among 90 Cincinnati Catholic grade schools. Aftercare, outdoor classroom, STEM, Rosary Procession, household intergrade leadership, Latin, professionally coached musical theater, extracurriculars.

6543 Miami Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45243, Contact: Elaine Nolte, Assistant Principal, Phone: 513-561-8020, stgertrudesch. org, Enrollment: 338

St. Ursula Villa 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: 513-533-7373, Fax: 513-871-0315, Email: m. runnels@stursulavilla.org, www.stursulavilla.org, Grades: 2 years old through 8th grade, Enrollment: 465

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THE SUMMIT COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL Founded in 1890, The Summit serves students from age 2 to Grade 12. A Montessori Program for ages 2-6 begins the academic journey followed by a college-preparatory program (Grades 1-12). The Summit educates students spiritually, academically, physically, socially and artistically while offering the academic excellence and one-on-one guidance of a top-tier Catholic independent school.

2161 Grandin Road (Hyde Park), Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: 513-871-4700, ext. 261, Email: pearl_e@summitcds.org, www.summitcds.org

PUBLIC

Great Oaks Career Campuses 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

BRAIN BALANCE OF CINCINNATI Brain Balance Achievement Centers offer a cutting-edge, drug-free approach to help children improve their ability to learn academically, socially and emotionally. We don’t just work with your child’s strengths or compensate for a weakness. We tackle your child’s issue head on, by addressing the root cause at the most fundamental level.

12084 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Phone: (513) 257-0705, https://www.brainbalancecenters.com/locations/ brain-balance-center-of-cincinnati/

Springer School and Center For more than 45 years, Springer School and Center has empowered students with learning disabilities to lead successful lives. Springer offers a day school for students ages 6-14 and outreach programs and learning disability resources for students, parents and teachers in the Greater Cincinnati area.

The Springer Experience. Success Starts Here.

2121 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: 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

VIRTUAL

Virtual Community School of Ohio Free tuition, free laptop AND Internet. We provide 100% flexibility: Our courses are accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Plus Virtual Community School of Ohio has a College Credit Plus (PSEO) partnership with Ohio Christian University.

Phone: 866-501-9473, Email: information@vcslearn.org, vcslearn.org

BE PART OF OUR MONTHLY EDUCATION GUIDE CONTACT KATIE@cincinnatiparent.com

September 2017 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 35

FARMERS' MARKET AT THE JCC

SUN 10

calendar

CHILDREN'S BOOK SWAP

FRI 08

SE P TE M B ER 2 0 1 7 FRI 01

SAT 02

Great Parks Free Entry Day

Raptors

As a special thank you for their continued support of Great Parks, Hamilton County residents can enjoy free entry into any Great Park on the first day of August without the need for a Motor Vehicle Permit.

FREE. Time: All day, Location: All Great Parks of Hamilton County, http://www.greatparks.org/calendar, Phone: 513-521-7275

CINCINNATI COMIC EXPO

FRI 22 – SUN 24

A variety of local native raptors will be on exhibit during this holiday weekend. Some of the birds will be provided by Raptor, Inc., a local organization with a mission to rescue and rehabilitate injured and orphaned birds of prey. Cameras and sketchpads are welcome. FREE. Time: 12-4 p.m., Location: Lake Isabella/Quarry Bluff, http://www.greatparks.org/calendar, Phone: 513-5217275

Story Time: Blueberries for Sal

GREAT OUTDOOR WEEKEND

SAT 23 – SUN 24

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Bring your little one to experience glass art story time featuring the beloved classic - Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey. After reading the story, each student will design and create their own fused glass tile inspired by Sal's blueberry plucking adventures. Kuplink, kuplank, kuplunk! No experience necessary. $25/student ages 3-6.

SUN 03

Time: 1:30-2:15 p.m., Location: Brazee Street Studios, https://www.brazeestreetstudios.com/products/ story-time-blueberries-for-sal, Phone: 513-321-0206

Time: 6 p.m., Location: Green Sales/Cincinnati Dinner Train Boarding Location, http://lebanonrr.com/ fireworks.html, Phone: 513-933-8022, ext. 101

Fireworks Train

Take a train ride to the riverfront and back to view the Cincinnati Bell WEBN Fireworks! Avoid the traffic and arrive in style with the LM&M Railroad for a night of fun!

Riverfest

This is the only way to celebrate Labor Day weekend in Cincinnati; Riverfest is a free festival at Sawyer Point that’s capped off with the famous WEBN fireworks display featuring Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks.

Riverfest is sponsored by Western & Southern. FREE. Time: 12-10 p.m., Location: Sawyer Point, http://webn. iheart.com/featured/western-southern-webn-fireworks/ content/2017-07-06-fireworks-faq/

MON 04 Labor Day at Stricker’s Grove

Stricker’s Grove is open to the public just four times a year, including Labor Day. Parking is free; ride bands are $12.50 per person and kids 2 and under are free.

Time: 1-8 p.m., Location: Stricker’s Grove, http://www. strickersgrove.com, Phone: 513-738-3366

TUES 05 – SUN 10 Plant Families

You may have looked at old family photo albums or maybe even traced your family tree, but did you know plants have families, too? Come and learn about how different groups of plants are related. Program included in Highfield Admission: $5/person.

Time: Check website for schedule, Location: Glenwood Gardens/Highfield Discovery Garden, http://www. greatparks.org/calendar, Phone: 513-521-7275

games and eating stellar snacks and beverages. We'll end the celebration with trivia and prizes! Everyone welcome. Registration is suggested, though not required. FREE. Time: 6:15-8:30 p.m., Location: Elmwood Place Branch Library, http://cincinnatilibrary.evanced.info/signup/ Calendar, Phone: 513-369-4452

Taft Jr. “Strike a Pose”

Scales, skin and shells are found on many of nature’s critters. Join us to explore the lives and wonders of reptiles and amphibians. For children ages 3-6 accompanied by an adult. FREE. Time: 11 a.m., Location: Winton Woods/Winton Centre, http://www.greatparks.org/calendar, Phone: 513-5217275

Come whirl with us, for this last of the series family fun night at Carol Ann’s Carousel for discounted ride packages, different themed nights, with featured crafts and activities! Enjoy September’s themed Ohio River Night. Be a pioneer for the night! Learn fun facts about the Ohio River, build a toy raft memento and later with your family race your rafts in the Interactive Stream in Smale Riverfront Park. Enter for your chance to win tokens and other Parks’ goodies. The animals look forward to exploring with you soon!

Time: 5-8 p.m., Location: Carol Ann’s Carousel, http:// www.cincinnatiparks.com/event/carol-anns-carouselsfamily-fun-night-2/?instance_id=16598

Star Trek: The Next Generation 30th Anniversary Celebration

Ring in the 30th Anniversary of one of science fictions most beloved television shows: Star Trek: The Next Generation. Join us to watch Star Trek Generations while doing Star Trek-related crafts and

Time: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Location: Krohn Conservatory, http://www.cincinnatiparks.com/krohn-conservatory/, Phone: 513-421-5707

SUN 10 Cincinnati Bengals vs.

Baltimore Ravens

Time: 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m., Location: Taft Museum of Art, www.taftmuseum.org/taft-jr, Phone: 513-241-0343

Stock up on apples and honey for Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish New Year), and browse a variety of produce from local farms at the many other booths! Dozens of vendors will be on hand selling everything from challah and honey cake to coffee and hummus. Enjoy honey tastings from a local beekeeper and apple tastings from an orchardist, and learn how to preserve your fresh summer veggies with a pickling demo. The market will end with a community-wide shofar blowing to mark the beginning of the Mayerson JCC’s Israel at 70 season-long community celebration. FREE.

THURS 07 – SUN 10 Harvest Home Fair

Come see the “biggest little fair in Ohio!” An estimated crowd of 40,000 will be in attendance this year. There is something for everyone here. It’s almost impossible for someone to visit the fair and not find something that interests them.

Time: Check website for schedule, Location: Harvest Home Park, http://www.harvesthomefair.com

FRI 08 Children’s Book Swap

To celebrate International Literacy Day, blue manatee is hosting a book swap! Bring a gently used children's book, and take home another attendee's book!

Registration required. FREE. Time: 4-6 p.m., Location: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore, http://www.bluemanateebooks.com/home/ activatees.html, Phone: 513-731-2665

THURS 07 Carol Ann’s Carousel’s Family Fun Night

Enjoy a fun day in the park and a festival of fall family activities.

How you stand and move can tell a lot about how you are feeling! Hear a story that will get you moving to show all sorts of feelings, practice your bending skills to create a movable piece of art, and look closely at the poses of the people in the Taft paintings to see how they are feeling. Free for Taft members; $10 non-members in advance (includes Museum admission), $12 day of program; children free.

Information and registration: (513) 684-4517 or eholland@taftmuseum.org.

WEDS 06 Little Tykes

Fall Harvest Celebration

SAT 09 – SUN 10 Cincinnati Hispanic Festival

Don’t miss the Bengals’ first game of the season!

Time: 1 p.m., Location: Paul Brown Stadium, http://www. bengals.com/schedule/season-schedule.html, Phone: 513-621-8383

Farmers’ Market

Location: Mayerson JCC, Time: 9:30am-1pm, https:// www.mayersonjcc.org/jewish-life/jcc-farmers-market/, Phone: 513-761-7500

TUES 12 – SUN 17 Monarch Mania

Everyone loves monarch butterflies, but do you know about the amazing things they do? We will learn about their life cycle, the plants they need to survive and the amazing journey they make each year. Program included in Highfield Admission: $5/person.

Time: Check website for schedule, Location: Glenwood Gardens/Highfield Discovery Garden, http://www. greatparks.org/calendar, Phone: 513-521-7275

TUES 12

Be part of this unique experience of the Latin American music, folkloric dance, and traditional Latino food. Come and celebrate! Admission is $10/ vehicle.

Yoga for Kids

Time: 12-11 p.m. both days, Location: Hamilton County Fairgrounds, http://www.cincinnatihispanicfest.org

Time: 4-5 p.m., Location: Hyde Park Branch Library, http://cincinnatilibrary.evanced.info/signup/Calendar, Phone: 513-369-4456

SAT 09 Deerfield Township Touch a Truck

We're teaming up with the Deerfield Towne Center for our annual Touch-A-Truck event! Climb in a variety of vehicles, enjoy the petting zoo, and receive fun giveaways at this FREE community event! FREE. Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Location: Deerfield Towne Center, https://deerfieldrec.com/info/activities/program_ details.aspx?ProgramID=29856

Come and meet yoga instructor Vivienne Konz. She would love to introduce kids to the world of yoga.

FREE.

THURS 14 – SUN 24 The Kaplan New Works Series

With a focus on innovation, New Works celebrates modern choreographers while showcasing the athleticism, strength, and versatility of our dancers.

Featuring four world premieres and including special guest Travis Wall from So You Think You Can Dance.

Time: Check website for schedule, Location: Aronoff Center, http://www.cincinnatiarts.org/events/detail/ the-kaplan-new-works-series-4, Phone: 513-621-5282

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AUTUMN FUN AT CAROL ANN'S CAROUSEL

FRI 22

SUN 17 Art Around the World

Take a trip around the world. Learn about where the art in the Taft comes from, practice your foreign language skills at the Art Cart, and make a paper lantern to take home. At 2 p.m., buckle up for an international trip with Madcap Puppets and their show Jules and Verne’s Excellent Adventure (ideal for ages 5-12). Then, stop by Honey Hill Farm’s traveling petting zoo at 3 p.m. FREE.

FRI 15 – SUN 17 Oktoberfest Zinzinnati *CP PICK

Cincinnati (or Zinzinnati) is a proud German city, most evidenced by our annual Oktoberfest, which is the largest in the country. There’s the Running of the Wieners race, World’s Largest Chicken Dance, live entertainment and tons of family friendly fun. Of course, the main event at Oktoberfest is the food – and if you want schnitzel, sauerkraut, sausages, bratwurst and authentic German ales, well, you’ve come to the right place!

Time: 1-4 p.m., Location: Taft Museum of Art, http:// www.taftmuseum.org/events/fundays, Phone: 513-241-0343

Time: Check website for schedule, Location: Downtown Cincinnati at Second and Third Streets, between Walnut and Elm Streets, http://www.oktoberfestzinzinnati.com

SAT 16

Time: 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Location: Cottell Park, http:// the-arts-alliance.org/fallfair-artsfestival/#1484771804593-ebffa4b6-c001

Once Upon A Child's Coat & Boot Kick-off! *CP PICK

Come and shop early to get ready for the winter season at Once Upon A Child! Offering a HUGE selection of coats, jackets, boots, hats, gloves and more - up to 70% OFF retail prices! www.onceuponachildcincydayton.com

Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Location: Washington Park, http://washingtonpark.org/event/the-city-flea-13/ 2017-09-16/?event

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FRI 22 Autumn Fun at Carol Ann’s Carousel

Leaves changing colors of persimmon, crimson, and brown falling all around us; it’s Fall! Come whirl with us inside Carol Ann’s Carousel for fall fun on September 22nd. Enjoy fun fall leaf crafts along with entering for your chance to win Parks goodies. We hope you don’t have to ‘leaf’ soon, and will whirl with us!

Time: 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Location: Carol Ann’s Carousel, http://www.cincinnatiparks.com/event/autumn-fun-atcarol-anns-carousel/?instance_id=16607

CFTA Street Food Festival

Live music, family fun - and some of the best food trucks in Cincinnati!

Time: 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Location: Summit Park, http:// cincinnatifoodtruckassociation.org/cfta-food-festival/

SAT 23 9th Annual Bluegrass for Babies

Time: 5-8 p.m., Location: Miami Whitewater Forest/ Visitor Center, http://www.greatparks.org/calendar, Phone: 513-521-7275

Time: 3-9 p.m., Location: Eden Park/Seasongood Pavilion, http://www.healthyrootsfoundation.org/wp/ bluegrass-for-babies/overview/

Talk Like a Pirate Story Time

Fire Up the Night

Family Game Night

A vast me harties! It's time to celebrate all things pirate! Celebrate International Talk like a Pirate Day and bring out your inner scallywag at Blue Manatee.

Time: 4-5 p.m., Location: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore, http://www.bluemanateebooks.com/home/ activatees.html, Phone: 513-731-2665

Hobbit’s Day Eve 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: Check website for schedule, Location: Duke Energy Convention Center, http://www.dukeenergycenter.com/events/cincinnati-comic-expo

Unplug from technology and join us to play classic games together or learn some new favorites. FREE.

TUES 19

THURS 21

The City Flea

Established in 2010, the Cincinnati Comic Expo is an annual event celebrating the best in comic books, fantasy, gaming, collectibles, cosplay, steampunk and pop culture in the heart of downtown Cincinnati.

The concert features music from top bluegrass bands and includes lots of family-friendly activities from local vendors (including a Cincinnati Parent booth with our famous prize wheel!), delicious concessions and much more. Tickets are free for kids 12 and under and $20 for adults; preorder tickets today to save! All money raised is donated to the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Center for the Prevention of Preterm Birth.

Preparing for Night *CP PICK

Time: 5-10 p.m., Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, http://www.cincynature.org/events-and-programs/ events-18/preparing-for-night-85/, Phone: 513-831-1711

Cincinnati Comic Expo

FallFair Arts Festival

Featuring more than 80 local and regional juried artists exhibiting and selling their original work in mixed media, clay, drawing/pastels, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, painting, photography, sculpture, and wood. The event also features the FallFair Stage, showcasing wonderful performing arts all day! Festival goers will enjoy a local exhibition of paintings, created

by The Arts Alliance Painters, inside the Snyder House. FREE.

Discover the magical sights and sounds of nature at night at this fun-filled family event. Bring a flashlight and visit interactive booths along the trails featuring nighttime plants and animals. View the astronomical wonders through telescopes and experience live raptors up close. Guests can bring a picnic dinner and enjoy live music and free ice cream. Food trucks will be available. Register online early to receive a discount! Presented by L.L. Bean

FRI 22 – SUN 24

Did you know that Bilbo and Frodo Baggins shared the same birthday? That's right! It's September 22nd!

Come on down to the Hyde Park Library and celebrate by making your very own Hobbit Hole Door! Sorry, the door won't let you turn invisible but you might be able to use it to rule the other hobbit hole doors. Ages 10-18. FREE. Time: 6:30-7:45 p.m., Location: Hyde Park Branch Library, http://cincinnatilibrary.evanced.info/signup/ Calendar, Phone: 513-369-4456

Immerse yourself in the culture of competitors from around the world displaying their spectacular firework shows. You will be amazed as teams light up the sky with dazzling displays, sound, color and music to see who will win best firework display. End the night with a stunning finale by Rozzi's Famous Fireworks over the banks of Lake Como.

Time: Gates open at 4 p.m.; fireworks start at 8:30 p.m., Location: Coney Island, http://coneyislandpark.com/ event/fire-up-the-night/, Phone: 513-232-8230

SAT 23 – SUN 24 Great Outdoor Weekend *CP PICK

Great Outdoor Weekend presents opportunities for children and adults to sample the best outdoor recreation and nature awareness programs available in Greater Cincinnati region. Each fall there are over 100 events available - all are free and open to the public. FREE.

Time: Check website for schedule, Location: Various parks and outdoor venues around Cincinnati, http://meetmeoutdoors.org/ greatoutdoorweekend/

SUN 24 PJ Library Farm Day

Join us as we learn about flowers, bees, and farm animals.

We’ll also learn about Gorman Heritage Farm, its history and how it is run today. Registration required; J Member: $5/ person; public: $7/person – kids ages 3 and under are free!

Time: 4pm, Location: Gorman Heritage Farm, https://www. mayersonjcc.org/jewish-life/pj-library/parties-in-the-pj- library-patch/

Raptor Inc. Open House

On the last Sunday of each month from 1-4 p.m. (March to November), Raptor Inc. offers a free open house to all ages.

Don’t miss September’s Great Outdoor Weekend celebration! FREE. Time: 1-4 p.m., Location: Raptor Inc., http://raptorinc.org/ open-houses/, Phone: 513-825-3325

MON 25 Make a Mess with Brazee

Brazee Street School of Glass comes to blue manatee! During this art class for children ages 3-6, we will read a fantastic picture book and create a piece of art to take home as well as a project using safe fused glass components to be picked up later! Cost is $25 per child. Register at https://www. brazeestreetstudios.com/products/.

Time: 10 a.m., Location: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstorel, Phone: 513-731-2665

MON 25 – FRI 29 Charley Harper for Little Naturalists Bring your little artists to create an art project in Charley Harper’s child-friendly style of nature art. $3/child, payable at the door.

Time: 12 p.m., Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve/ Ellenwood Nature Barn, http://www.greatparks.org/calendar, Phone: 513-521-7275

FRI 29 – SAT 30 International Fair Trade Sale

The sale features a diverse group of volunteers and vendors who represent Fair Trade and Direct Trade organizations throughout the developing world. Fair Trade empowers people through fair wages, education and a healthy work environment. Some proceeds from the event will benefit El Hogar Projects, four Episcopal schools which serve impoverished children in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Unique purchases will help lift people out of poverty.

Time: 4-9 p.m. on Sept. 29th and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sept. 30th, Location: Episcopal Church of the Redeemer, https://www. facebook.com/RedeemerCincy/

FRI 29 Movie in the Park

Catch a free showing of The Jungle Book at Summit Park!

FREE.

Time: 8 p.m., Location: Summit Park, http://summitparkblueash.com/calendar.php

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THURS 30 Lebanon Applefest Train Rides

Kick off the fall season by tasting delectable local produce, enjoying the entertainment, and doing something different by joining the LM&M Railroad for a One Hour Train Ride during the Lebanon Country Applefest!

Time: Check website for train departure times, Location: LM&M Railroad, http://lebanonrr.com/applefest.html, Phone: 513-933-8022

Carol Ann’s Carousel Solar Gazing Event

What is the bright star found at the center of our solar system? If you guessed the Sun, you are correct!

Come join Carol Ann’s Carousel and the Cincinnati Observatory for this amazing blazing day of Solar-gazing! The first 300 people at the event time receive one free ride on the Carousel, compliment of Procter & Gamble! Learn fun facts about the Sun, safely view solar flares with special instruments and make your very own kaleidoscope! Receive a complimentary star chart to help identify constellations all year round courtesy of the Carol Ann & Ralph V. Haile Jr. Foundation! FREE. Time: 1-4 p.m., Location: Carol Ann’s Carousel, http:// www.cincinnatiparks.com/event/carol-anns-carouselsstargazing-event/?instance_id=17463

Zoo Babies

Meet some of the Zoo’s babies past and present. Take a look behind the scenes to discover what it takes to prepare for the new baby. Presented by members of The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. FREE. Time: 12-1 p.m., Location: Madeira Branch Library, http://cincinnatilibrary.evanced.info/signup/Calendar, Phone: 513-369-6028

ongoing events Groceries and Grilling Wednesdays

Wednesdays through Sept. 27 Head to Findlay Market on Wednesday evenings for Groceries & Grilling! Each Wednesday, a merchant or vendor will demonstrate a themed recipe in a newly installed demo kitchen. Guests will get the recipe and list of ingredients so they can shop and then grill the recipe on-site, on grills provided by the market, along with some tools, plates, napkins and utensils.

Time: 5-8 p.m., Location: Findlay Market, http://www. findlaymarket.org/events-and-activities

Star Wars™ and the Power of Costume

Daily through Oct. 1 Iconic costumes from “a galaxy far, far away” are presented in the Smithsonian traveling exhibition Star Wars™ and the Power of Costume. Opening May 25th, Star Wars™ and the Power of Costume is perhaps Cincinnati’s most anticipated event of the summer. This exhibit is brought to Cincinnati in partnership with the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) and Lucasfilm, and features fan-favorite costumes such as Obi-Wan Kenobi’s robes, Chewbacca’s yak-and-mohair costume, Queen Amidala’s regal gowns and Boba Fett’s armored attire.

Time: Open daily, Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, https://www.cincymuseum.org/content/coming-soonstar-wars%E2%84%A2-and-power-costume, Phone: 513-287-7000

Kenner® and the Building of an Empire

Daily through Oct. 1 Kenner and the Building of an Empire tells Kenner’s story through rare and iconic toys dating back to the 1940s and the first toy the company ever produced, a metal bubble gun called the Bubbl-Matic. The exhibition also includes a 1964 Easy Bake Oven and over 100 original Star Wars action figures, vehicles and playsets. Among the Star Wars action figures are an original set of toys from 1977 and the accompanying packaging. One of the rarest items in the exhibition is an original die cast from 1979 for a droid factory, a toy set that never made it into production.

LEBANON APPLEFEST TRAIN RIDES

THURS 30

Time: Open daily, Location: Cincinnati

Museum Center, https://www.

cincymuseum.org/kenner? utm_

medium=10474348&utm_

source=sarah@cincinnatiparent.

com&utm_campaign=Over+150

+Kenner+toys+on+display+in

+exhibition+at+Cincinnati+

Museum+Center&utm_

content=6/7/2017, Phone:

513-287-7000

Baby Splash Classes at Hubbard Family Swim School

Daily/Ongoing Being in the water with your little one is an amazing and rewarding experience. Let us show you what they are capable of. The child has an adult (parent or other) in the water with him/her at all times. For babies 8 weeks to 5 months. Free; registration required. FREE. Time: Check website, Location: Hubbard Family Swim School at Kids First, http://www.hubbardswim.com/, Phone: 513-530-0123

Ohio Renaissance Festival

Sept. 2-Oct. 29 (Weekends & Labor Day) Forget your cares and step back in time to this 30-acre re-created 16th Century English village and enjoy over 400 years of fun in a single day! The festival offers something for everyone featuring nearly 100 shows daily on 12 stages, over 150 unique arts and crafts shops, hearty food and drink, games of skill and human-powered rides to amuse all ages.

Time: 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day, Location: Renaissance Park in Harveysburg, http://www.renfestival.com

Grass Roots: The Art of Nature

Sept. 9-Oct. 29 Become inspired by the natural beauty of Krohn Conservatory’s 2017 Fall Show, Grass Roots: The Art of Nature. When you visit look around and you will find beauty everywhere; but be sure to notice how art first began with nature itself, and how it has inspired so many artists throughout history. This year the popular “trains” of Applied Imagination will arrive early and be featured in both the Fall and Holiday Shows!

Time: Open Tuesday-Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Location: Krohn Conservatory, http://www. cincinnatiparks.com/krohn-conservatory/, Phone: 513-421-5707

Old West Festival

Sept. 9-Oct. 15 (Weekends) Visitors will be stepping back in history to a time when famous lawmen like Bat Masterson and Wyatt Earp reigned, where gamblers such as Doc Holliday played faro and Boothill was a place you didn’t want to be at the end of the night. Lots of activities for kids and families!

Time: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, Location: 1449 Greenbush Cobb Road in Williamsburg, https://www.oldwestfestival.com

Wicked

Sept. 13-Oct. 15 Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One -- born with emerald green skin -- is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How do these two grow up to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good?

You’ll have to get your tickets to find out!

Time: Check website for show times, Location: Aronoff Center, http://www.cincinnatiarts.org/events/detail/ wicked, Phone: 513-621-2787

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Shaw Farms Fall Festival Weekends

Sept. 16-Oct. 29 (weekends) Weekends at Shaw Farms provide an exciting opportunity for terrific family memories, photo ops, and, of course, some awesome, farm-grade adventures. Take the family on a ride around our scenic farm property in one of our traditional tractor hayrides or climb into our nostalgic horse-drawn wagons (available weekends only). Please note that Shaw Farms is open daily with limited activities. FREE. Time: Check website, Location: Shaw Farms, http://www. shawfarms.com/shaw-farms-produce-weekend-childrensactivities.htm, Phone: 513-575-2022

Jack O’Lantern Junction

Sept. 23-Oct. 31 Halloween fun for the whole family! Walk through our kid-friendly trick-or-treat maze, visit our mini animated display, Halloweenville, and visit the area’s only indoor Pumpkin Patch where kids get to pick a mini pumpkin!

Time: Open daily, Location: Entertrainment Junction, http:// entertrainmentjunction.com/calendar/, Phone: 513-8988000

Neltner’s Fall Fest

Sept. 29-Oct. 29 At Neltner’s Farm, autumn is the time for harvest and celebration, and we invite your family to join ours for the annual fall festival. There’s something for every member of your family: horse-drawn wagon rides, model train display, an expansive corn maze, our pick-your-own pumpkin patch, petting zoo, pony rides, homemade food and ice cream, farm shop, crafters, pottery, face-painting, seasonal apples, folk art, live music, a wonderful variety of demonstrations and a barrel train!

Time: Open daily and weekends, check schedule, Location: Neltner’s Farm, http://www.neltnersfarm.com/things-to-do/, Phone: 859-496-7535

The Great Pumpkin Fest

Saturdays and Sundays from Sept. 30-Oct. 29 The Great Pumpkin Fest at Kings Island is all treats and no tricks when it comes to family-friendly fun including live entertainment, mazes, trick-or-treating and so much more!!

Guests of all ages will enjoy our Halloween-themed festivities, sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Time: Open daily, Location: Kings Island, https://www. visitkingsisland.com/play/events/the-great-pumpkin-fest

P L EASE 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.

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FA M I LY SERVICES

CINCINNATI PARENT

MARKETPLACE the fa mily “ yellow pag es” for Cincinnati and Northern Kentuck y Parent s

B IRTH DAY PARTIES

S WI M CL ASSES

ENRICH M ENT

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CINCINNaTI PaRENT // SEPTEMBER 2017

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