September & October 2019| Dayton Parent

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SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2019

happy FALL 10 WAYS TO EMBRACE THE SEASON

September / October 2019 I DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

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contents

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

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18 departments In Every Issue 06 Letter from the Editor 07 Our Cover Kid

features Resources & Calendars 30 To Do With Your Crew 31 Fun & Wacky Calendar

Around Town 14 Outdoor Adventure

for All Ages at Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience

26 Local Spotlight: Creek Safe

Sponsored Content 10 Moving...

with Children

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Happy Fall, Y'all!

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Private School Primer

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Must-Know Facts About Breast Health

28 When Your Child Has Trouble Focusing

10 ways to have a ball this season.

What to consider when searching for the perfect private school for your child.

5 things you should know about the second-most common cancer among American women

Parenting 25 Flu Shot Myth Busters

Travel 08 Let's Go on Fall Break

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September / October 2019 I DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Publisher Mary Wynne Cox mary@daytonparentmagazine.com Associate Publisher & Advertising Hannah Mohler hannah@daytonparentmagazine.com Editor Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@daytonparentmagazine.com Account Executives Katie Clark katie@daytonparentmagazine.com Brooke Litherland brooke@cdaytonparentmagazine.com

Leaves Falling, Autumn Calling!

Fall is in the air. The leaves are changing, the kids are back in school, and I’m starting to eye the side of my closet where all my cardigans and sweaters are hanging. Hooray for autumn!

This is my favorite season, and it’s partly because there are so many fun and festive things to do everywhere you look.

If you don’t believe me, then check out “Happy Fall, Y’all” on page 12. We’ve rounded up some really neat ways to celebrate the season with your family — everything from apple pickin’ to train ridin’ to pumpkin partyin’. (Yes, there are festivals happening in Dayton that celebrate fall’s favorite orange squash!)

And I know that it feels like we just finished summer break and got back into the swing of school, but guess what? There is another break looming just around the corner, and its name is fall break. If you’re all out of ideas for what to do and where to go, then rest easy: We have you covered! “Let’s Go on Fall Break” on page 8 will be your guide for planning a memorable getaway. The Midwest is particularly pretty during the fall, so this season is a great time to get out and explore with your family.

Enjoy this great season!

DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM I September / October 2019

Creative Director Katie Clark katie@daytonparentmagazine.com

Digital Publisher Wendy Hasser wendy@daytonparentmagazine.com Digital Editor Brooke Litherland brooke@daytonparentmagazine.com

Billing billing@daytonparentmagazine.com

Contributing Writers Lauren Lemons, Haley Paddock, Jennifer Thompson

Calendar of Events calendar@daytonparentmagazine.com

Contact Us daytonparent@daytonparent magazine.com Dayton Parent Magazine is published bi-monthly. Copyright 2019

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.

EDITOR

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Production Manager Karen Ring karen@daytonparentmagazine.com

OUR COVER KID:

REAGAN JANE [age] 4.5 years old [my favorites] FOOD Sushi SONG You're a Mean One,

Mr. Grinch

TV SHOW My Little Pony TOY Toy horses BOOK Chicka Chicka

Boom Boom

[an interesting fact about me] I love helping my mom take care of plants. I also have my own collection of herbs that I tend to!

COVER PHOTO BY: Flash Photography

flashphotodayton.com

September / October 2019 I DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

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TRAVEL

WORDS BY KAREN RING

Let’s Go on Fall Break Autumn can be the best time to explore the Midwest

Fall break: It’s the time to do just that and take a break from work, school and the day-today grind. Whether it’s a daytrip or an overnight excursion you are after, here are a few ways to spend time as a family this fall.

Sleep under the stars Fresh air, wide-open spaces, s’mores fixings melting over a fire and freedom from those mindnumbing electronic devices — these are just a few things to love about camping. Crisp temperatures and changing leaves make fall in Indiana the perfect time to get out and reconnect with nature and your family while sleeping under the stars. Whether you are looking for a rustic camping experience at Hocking Hills State Park or a deluxe cabin with all the modern amenities at Hocking Hills KOA, there’s a camping experience perfect for everyone. Learn more about our favorite campsites at daytonparentmagazine.com/ lets-go-camping.

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Head underground Channel your inner explorer this fall and tackle one of the many intricate cave networks in the Midwest. Ohio Caverns, also known as “America’s Most Colorful Caverns,” are open year-round and feature stunning rock formations along the two-mile pathway.

Or head to Mammoth Cave, the largest cave in the world, which is just a short drive away in Kentucky. The cave sprawls for over 400 miles and offers 16 different tours for all ages that cover different aspects of the natural wonder. Learn more about nearby caves at daytonparentmagazine.com/ lets-go-underground.

Discover or re-discover a Midwest city Our location in the Heartland of America puts us in close proximity to a number of amazing cities that are constantly evolving. St. Louis is the perfect family getaway with acres of urban green spaces, a one-of-a-kind shoe factory turned surreal playscape known as the City Museum and a budgetfriendly zoo. Get a view of it all from the top of the Gateway Arch.

DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM I September / October 2019

If the hustle and bustle of the big city is calling, make the trek to Chicago, where you can explore world-class museums, get a unique perspective of the city’s architecture aboard a water taxi, shop ‘til you drop along the Magnificent Mile and dine on dim sum in Chinatown.

Enjoy the lap of luxury Put the “break” in fall break by heading to a nearby resort that offers equal parts relaxation and entertainment. Nestled in the heart of Indiana’s Hoosier National Forest, French Lick resort is home to two historic hotels, three golf courses, two spas, indoor and outdoor pools and a Vegas-style casino. Activities range from horseback riding to bowling to surrey bike rentals, and there are tons of hiking trails to explore the grounds. Best of all, KidsFest Lodge offers supervised entertainment for the kiddos while mom and dad hit the spa (or the casino!)

Tackle an amusement park Sure, amusement parks are usually associated with the summer months, but most are also open weekends in the fall, when the

temps are cooler, the crowds are smaller and there is still plenty of fun to be had. At Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus, IN, enjoy Kids World weekends through Sept. 7 plus Sept. 14. These weekends devoted to little ones include everything you love about the park plus magic shows, juggling, unicycling and balloon artistry. Or enjoy Halloween fun for the whole family during Happy Halloween Weekends, Sept.

21-Oct. 27.

Cedar Point, situated on the shores of Lake Erie in Sandusky, OH, remains open weekends through October. HalloWeekends run Sept.

13 through Oct. 27 and feature tons of family-friendly fun by day and hair-raising frights by night.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing resort experience, the non-stop action of an amusement park or something in between, make the most of the school-free days with a family getaway.

September / October 2019 I DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

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SPONSORED CONTENT

BROUGHT TO YOU BY REALTOR AMANDA DELONG, COLDWELL BANKER HERITAGE

Moving... with Children RULE #5: PURGE! Use this opportunity to go through all those kid toys that they don’t need and don’t ever touch. Bag them up and send them away to anywhere else!

If you Google “Most stressful things you can do,” your results will be death, divorce and moving.

Yes, moving sucks. There’s no pretty way to say it. I hate that what I do all day, every day, ultimately results in people having to shift all their stuff from one place to another. My husband and I have had eight addresses in the short six years we’ve been married. That’s partially because he married a real estate agent and partially because we had three children WAY faster than we ever anticipated. Because I am now experienced in moving with children, this article is for all of you who are not.

RULE #1: Think small. ONE thing at a time. Pack one box a day. Look around for whatever your family doesn’t need on a daily basis and pack it up. If you’re like me and get an Amazon box each day, utilize that. Fill it, tape it, done.

RULE #6: Label well. Don’t be my husband. He packs by shoving whatever items are near him into a box and then putting tape on it. Don’t be a Jon! When you pack a box, label it IMMEDIATELY with a marker as to what you put inside and what room that box belongs in at the new house.

RULE #2: Start soon. Don’t wait until the day you are supposed to hand over the keys to your property to pack (and yes, I’ve had this happen). Start packing now. Slow and steady wins the race. One box a day translates to a big pile after a month!

RULE #3: Give each child a “special” box that is their own moving box. I always give

my clients who have little ones a box that the child can color and put their own prized possessions in. That way the child can know and visually see very easily where their IMPORTANT stuff is.

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DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM I September / October 2019

RULE #4: Get rid of your kids. If you have the ability in

ANY way possible, send the children elsewhere when it comes to actual moving day. There is too much happening. Mom and dad are too stressed. There are dangerous things being transported. Get the kids out of there if you have that option whatsoever. If you can, have the children brought home when their beds are put back together and there is some semblance of their space.

RULE #7: Talk to the kids about what is happening. It

gets them excited! Tell them as you drive by, “That will be your new bedroom window,” or “We will go for bike rides down this road!” If they see you are excited, they will be, too. Also remember that the idea of moving may be scary for them — there’s a lot of unknown. Talk to them, and let them talk, too.

As always, when you're thinking of buying or selling real estate, let's talk.

Happy Fall,

Y’all!

10 ways to have a ball this season.

WORDS BY HALEY PADDOCK

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HE SUMMER HEAT IS GIVING WAY TO CRISP AUTUMN AIR, AND EVERYONE IS EXCITED TO CELEBRATE THE CHANGING SEASONS. CHECK OUT OUR LIST OF LOCAL ATTRACTIONS SO YOU WON’T MISS OUT ON ENJOYING SOME FAMILYFRIENDLY FALL ACTIVITIES!

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Apple Country Farm Market

such as outhouse construction and a tricycle race!

Hidden Valley Orchards

Hayrides, corn mazes and pumpkin painting — what more could you ask for? These are just a few of the many fall attractions you’ll find at Apple Country Farm.

Where: 958 W Main St, Wilmington

Hidden Valley Orchards sure knows how to celebrate fall!

Festivals and events are lined up for nearly every weekend in September and October, which include themes such as apple butter, scarecrows, apple cider and pumpkins. They also offer U-pick fruits and fresh veggies depending on the weather so be sure to check their website for crop forecasts.

Where: 2323 U.S. Route 42, Spring Valley 937-750-1005, applecountryfarm.com

When: Friday 5-8 pm, Saturday 1-9 pm and Sunday 1-6 pm

Clinton County Fairgrounds Corn Festival If you love corn and other famous fall cuisine, then this is the festival for you. The three-day seasonal celebration features a parade, games, tractor pull and the “Corn Olympics,” which includes events

DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM I September / October 2019

937-383-KORN, cornfestivalonline.com

When: September 6-8: Friday 11 am-10 pm, Saturday 9 am-11 pm and Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Grandma’s Gardens Fall fun at Grandma’s Gardens means visiting the spooky yet hilarious Graveyard of Lost Souls, several unique photo opps, a pumpkin patch and train rides for little ones!

Where: 8107 N. SR 48, Waynesville 937-885-2740, grandmasgardens.net

When: Weekdays 9 am-6 pm, Saturday 9 am-5 pm and Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Where: 5474 North State Route 48, Lebanon 513-932-1869, hiddenvalleyorchards.com

When: Wednesday and Sunday 9 am-7 pm, Thursday through Saturday 9 am-9 pm

Lucas Bros Fall Fest Pick your own pumpkin, enjoy a free straw maze and visit with the farm animals. You might also like to take a hayride tour of the farm or attempt to find your way through the family friendly corn maze.

Where: 3329 Ferry Road, Bellbrook 937-212-8020, lucasbrosfarms.com

When: Saturday and Sunday 11 am-6 pm

McMonigle Farms Pumpkin Fest Boasting not only the most affordable, but also the most unique pumpkin patch around, McMonigle Farms is a great place to take your entire family. Once you’re there, you’ll find cow train rides, a corn and straw maze, a large play area with two corn boxes and U-pick pumpkins!

Pumpkin Party at Austin Landing A fall celebration you’ll be sure to remember, the annual Pumpkin Party at Austin Landing features attractions you won’t find anywhere else. Internationally known pumpkin carvers offering live demonstrations, incredible chalk artists, and countless free activities for kids are only some of the highlights of the evening!

Where: 10050 Innovation Drive, Miamisburg 937-291-6300, austinlanding.com

When: October 23, 3 pm-7 pm

Tom’s Maze Tom’s has claimed multiple awards for their amazing 8-acre maze.

Promising to be more than “just a regular corn maze,” you’re invited to visit the farm, solve the puzzles and see if you can find your way out!

Where: 7441 Franklin Madison Rd, Middletown

Where: 4881 Germantown-Liberty Rd, Germantown

937-672-8248, fallpumpkinfest.com

937-866-2777, tomsmaze.com

When: Saturday and Sunday 12-6 pm throughout October

When: Thursday and Sunday 12-6 pm, Friday and Saturday 12-10 pm

Monnin’s Fruit Farm If you’ve already picked all the pumpkins you need but still want to get out in the cooler weather for some farm fresh fruit, head on over to Monnin’s Fruit Farm. Let your kiddos collect their own snack with U-pick grapes available midSeptember through October or apples available through November.

Where: 8201 Frederick Pike, Dayton

Young’s Jersey Dairy Last but certainly not least, Young’s Jersey Dairy is another local favorite that does not disappoint when it comes to fall family fun! Visit the 43rd Annual Pumpkin Festival for pumpkin donut hole making, pumpkin painting and a pumpkin launcher. You can also experience wool gathering, Cowvin’s Corny Maze and haunted wagon rides this season.

937-890-4536, monninsfruitfarm.com

Where: 6880 Springfield-Xenia Rd, Yellow Springs

When: Monday through Saturday 8 am-6 pm and Sunday 9 am-5 pm

937-325-0629, youngsdairy.com

When: Varying hours and dates throughout September and October; see website events page for full details.

September / October 2019 I DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

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AROUND TOWN

BROUGHT TO YOU BY LAUREN LEMONS, COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR, FIVE RIVERS METROPARKS

Outdoor Adventure for All Ages at Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience Keep it going: Your family can explore 265 miles of water trails in the greater Dayton region, some of which can be accessed in your MetroParks.

For a casual paddle, stick to the Eastwood Lagoon. For a longer, more exciting paddle, start at Eastwood MetroPark and travel the four miles to RiverScape MetroParks’ RiverScape River Run. Learn more about paddling opportunities and programs at metroparks.org/paddle.

Five Rivers MetroParks’ Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience (OutdoorX) is the perfect occasion to introduce children to all the adventures they can have in the great outdoors at your MetroParks.

The Midwest’s premier outdoor adventure festival, the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience is Oct. 5 and 6 at Eastwood MetroPark and features more than 20 outdoor adventure activities for people of all ages to try.

Get on a bike: The Bike Village at OutdoorX offers opportunities to try a variety of demo bikes. Both youth and adults can visit the Batch Bicycles Try Cycling, Try Mountain Biking, the Mad River Mountain Pumptrack or the Tot Track to practice skills and get pointers from the pros.

Children and adults both will get a thrill watching the Dialed Action Sports Teams perform gravity-defying stunts at the BMX and Mountain Bike shows.

Keep it going: Don’t hop off your bike after OutdoorX; instead, spend the rest of the year exploring the 340 miles of paved recreation trail — the nation’s largest paved trail network. You can connect to the bikeways via a variety of MetroParks and conservation areas.

Additionally, MetroParks offers mountain biking trails for all ages at MetroParks Mountain Biking Area (MoMBA). Take the tot track or a beginner track for some all-terrain fun. Visit metroparks.org/bike to learn more about how to hit the cycling trails in the region.

Reach new heights and find some balance: An OutdoorX favorite, the climbing

wall offers kids the chance to climb safely with help from experts. A fun balancing activity, slacklines will be available for kids to try.

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Pet parents: People with pups consider them

part of the family, and there are plenty of things for your furry family to do at OutdoorX. Let your pup run around, go for a swim and make new friends at the Pooch Island Off-Leash Dog Park. Dogs can visit the Best Breed Pooch Playground to enjoy treats during Yappy Hour at the Bone Bar, or “pawticipate” in a variety of pup activities and crafts offered by the Greater Dayton Humane Society.

Slackline professionals will be performing exciting trickline shows and exhilarating highline shows, as well as offering clinics so you can learn from the pros.

Keep it going: Large muscle and balancing activities are important physically and developmentally for children, both of which can be experienced at nature play areas. Different from traditional playgrounds, nature play areas utilize natural elements to create playscapes where kids can climb, play, jump and imagine.

Find nature play areas in Englewood, Hills & Dales, Possum Creek, Sugarcreek and Wesleyan MetroParks.

Pick up a paddle: Get ready to paddle on the Eastwood Lagoon with help from HERO USA and American Kayaking expert instructors. Hop in a canoe, kayak or Bellyak prone kayak and get active on the water. The Mad River Run will feature pro surf shows and competitions throughout OutdoorX and is the perfect opportunity to watch exciting action on the white water.

DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM I September / October 2019

Keep it going: Did you know most MetroParks are pet friendly? Before you bring your pet on an outdoor adventure, check metropark.org/ places-to-go to double-check the pet policy.

While at the park, your dog must always be leashed and under control for the safety and enjoyment of other park patrons and their animals.

OutdoorX will also have kid-friendly eats and music for the entire family to enjoy. MetroParks is proud of OutdoorX’s award-winning wastefree initiative, so it asks that families bring reusable water bottles to help keep waste out of the landfill.

Learn more about OutdoorX at metroparks.org/outdoorx.

PHOTO CREDIT

FIVE RIVERS METROPARKS

September / October 2019 I CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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PRIVATE SCHOOL PRIMER WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN SEARCHING FOR THE PERFECT PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD. WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

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DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM I September / October 2019

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ublic, private, charter, magnet, faith-based, Montessori, homeschool and more. With so many wonderful education options available, choosing the type of school you feel is the best fit for your child can feel like a daunting task.

For parents who are considering private school, we have asked two experts to field some questions to help parents in their private school search. Aimee Vorrasi is the chief operating officer of Creative World of Child Care, Inc., a parent company of Creative World of Montessori in Dayton. Polina Schroeder is the admissions and financial aid director of Dayton Christian School.

What are the differences between private and public schools?

Schroeder: Private schools don’t rely on state or local funding.

This gives private schools f lexibility in teaching methods and curriculum choices, as well as freedom to manage enrollment and create organizational culture.

One should not underestimate the importance of a school’s culture, which often aides in providing meaningful education and values consistent with that being taught in a student’s home.

Private schools are known to have smaller class sizes, personalized

education and more opportunities for experiential learning.

Vorrasi: Finding the right school can be a difficult process. Every parent wants their child to have the best educational experience in a setting that meets the child's needs. Because private schools are not state or federal funded, they can be highly specialized and dig deep into their mission and philosophy, as well as how they implement and address their curriculum.

Many private schools will incorporate and focus on academic areas that will be of high interest to their students, including the fine arts and STEAM. This is not to say that the public schools do not incorporate this into their instruction, but there are many other guidelines that are enforced because of the state funding and demands which may limit their creativity.

What should parents consider when looking for a private school?

Schroeder: Navigating the world of private education can be intimidating. However, there are a few things to consider. First, most private schools are missiondriven when it comes to values and education, with a mission typically incorporated into educational methods, curriculum and community building.

Therefore, it is important that a child attends a school with values the parents support.

Secondly, I would not focus on online reviews or grading when selecting a school. Often, they can be skewed or inconsistent.

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Instead, tour a school and meet with one of their key administrators. Talking to a family that is currently attending the school is also a great way to learn.

Lastly, most schools provide some form of financial assistance.

While it is rare to receive a full scholarship, some offer up to 40 percent in tuition assistance for candidates who qualify.

Vorrasi: When looking for a private school, parents should look at the school environment and philosophy and make sure it aligns with their family's expectations. It is important that the school looks at the whole child and meet the child's academic and social needs.

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What questions should parents ask while touring a private school?

Schroeder: As a parent, I would first want to know the mission and core values of a school. I would ask how the school provides individualized learning and encourages growth of students’ gifts. It is good to ask about faculty turnover and professional background.

Teachers who have been loyal to a school, have experience in their subject area, and are involved in their school community speak volumes about organizational health. I also recommend gathering information on average class size and test scores, class offerings, extracurricular activities and how the school fosters students’ talents.

DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM I September / October 2019

What else should parents know about searching for a private school?

they can wait until the summer to enroll for the fall. At that point, children are often put on a waitlist because the classrooms are already full.

Vorassi: Finding the right educational setting can be a difficult decision for parents and their children. It is important for families to understand it is their right to advocate for their child and take time when making their decision. It is important to do the research early because enrollment for private schools for the fall usually starts in January and February. This can come up quickly for parents who think

Whatever route you decide to go, when searching for the best educational fit for your child, don’t be afraid to ask questions and trust your gut. You are your child’s advocate and know them best, and that knowledge goes a long way.

September / October 2019 I DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

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MUST-KN W FACTS ABOUT

BREAST HEALTH 5 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE SECONDMOST COMMON CANCER AMONG AMERICAN WOMEN WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

I

sat in the waiting room, the pink top they gave me to wear was tied tightly around the side so as not to reveal anything. The room was filled with other women adorned in matching tops. One-by-one they went into the rooms designated for mammograms, and one-by-one they came out. Did they notice I hadn’t moved yet? I wonder when they will call my name? It has to be soon. It feels like I have been sitting in this place forever. I wonder if this will hurt? How long until I have the results?

I hope whatever it is — that it’s benign.

For some, this is a familiar story. Whether a personal diagnosis, or the diagnosis of a loved one, many of us know someone whose life has been affected by breast cancer.

As women, we are taught early on the importance of breast selfexamination and the necessity of annual mammograms for those who are 40 and over. We don’t learn these things to scare us, but because we understand the importance of early detection.

According to breastcancer.org, about one in eight U.S. women (about 12%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime.

The website also states that “besides skin cancer, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women. In 2019, it's estimated that about 30% of newly diagnosed cancers in women will be breast cancers.”

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we have asked Dayton OB-GYN Kamlesh Sanghvi, MD — who has had a private practice for more than 30 years after a double residency and double board certifications — to answer some questions, with the hopes of relaying the importance of being proactive and taking the necessary steps for early breast cancer detection and prevention.

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Is there anything women can do to help decrease their chance of breast cancer?

hormone replacement therapy after menopause may increase the risk of breast cancer.

Let us not get confused by prevention and early cancer detection. If there is sufficient family or personal history, women can go for genetic counseling and, if high risk, can consider prophylactic chemotherapy, or mastectomy. Women who are considered high risk may benefit from annual mammograms and MRI evaluation, as well as physical examinations by physicians every six months. Early detection for an average-risk woman will include annual mammograms starting at age 40, annual physical exams with breast exam and self-breast exams monthly. Depending on the risk factors, mammograms may start at an earlier age. Also, there is some concern that the use of

Are all breast lumps potentially cancerous?

No. Benign lumps are more common than cancer, especially in premenopausal women.

However, each lump needs to be evaluated before writing it off as benign. Even young women can have breast cancer, so if you notice a change, do not ignore it.

Generally, for younger women, most lumps tend to be benign. But if it is cancer, it tends to be more aggressive.

Is breast cancer genetic?

What else should women know?

Some breast cancers are genetic and also may increase the risk of other associated cancers in women, as well as in men.

Some women raise concern about the risk of radiation from annual mammograms. Generally, the benefits significantly outweigh the risks. Prevention and early detection is the key to saving lives.

New 3D technology may further help early detection, as well.

Do you recommend genetic testing?

Genetic counseling and testing is an advancing field with promising contribution to breast health.

Women can have genetic testing done if there is significant family history. Even if the test comes back negative, because we do not know what the future holds with genetic testing and they are finding more and more genes that are abnormal, you can still have an increased risk based on family history alone. If the blood test comes back positive, the patient will know there is an increased risk.

My results did come back benign, but I know that isn’t the case for everyone. The earlier cancer is caught, the better the prognosis.

Please be sure to perform your self-exams and schedule your yearly mammograms when the time comes. Let’s be proactive with our health and encourage one another in the fight against breast cancer.

DP

on the go.

Family-friendly fun at your fingertips. daytonparentmagazine.com

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DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM I September / October 2019

PARENTING

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DAYTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL

Flu Shot Myth Busters Do you know your flu facts from flu fiction?

“It’s not necessary to get the flu shot every year.”

ACHOO! SNIFFLE! COUGH! These are the sounds of sickness that are coming during the colder months. This flu season, knowing the difference between a cold and the flu, and brushing up on flu shot facts, can help prevent the spread of this contagious virus.

“It’s important that parents understand flu prevention and its vaccine before we enter flu season,” says Sherman Alter, MD, division chief of infectious disease at Dayton Children’s Hospital. “We hear many myths surrounding the flu vaccine every year, and as infection preventionists at Dayton Children’s, we are always working to keep people healthy by relaying the truth.”

Here are some of the common myths about the flu shot: “The flu and a cold or stomach flu are the same thing.”

The flu is different from a cold or stomach flu. Flu is a serious illness that makes you feel much worse than a cold. You generally can tell the difference between a cold and the flu

Everyone 6 months of age and older should get the flu vaccine each year, including pregnant women. The vaccine changes and the strains of flu also change, so you need to get this important flu prevention every year.

because you get the illness during flu season. Flu symptoms are fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, cough (sometimes severe), exhaustion, loss of appetite and sore throat. Cold symptoms are fever (if any), runny nose and a little coughing. A child's appetite and energy level are usually not affected with a cold.

“It’s too late to get the flu vaccine after Thanksgiving.”

We want to try and give the vaccine to everyone who should get it by October 31. However, the flu season could be prolonged, so after Thanksgiving is not too late to get the flu shot; you can get the vaccine anytime.

“The flu shot can give you the flu.”

The flu shot is a killed vaccine with no live virus. You can’t get the flu from a killed vaccine. If you feel you have flu symptoms after the shot, you could have picked up another infection, or you had already picked up the flu before your shot and it took some time for your immune system to respond.

“It’s better to get the flu than to get the flu vaccine.”

There are very bad cases of the flu, and there can even be mortality in certain high-risk groups. It’s not worth it to get sick. Just get the vaccine.

“You can’t prevent the flu.”

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent the flu, these tips can help limit spreading germs: * Get your flu vaccine. * Keep kids home if they have the flu and stay home if you're sick. * Wash your hands well and often with soap. * Don't share cups and utensils. * Sneeze or cough into a tissue or into your elbow, not your hand.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY September / October 2019 I DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

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AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY HALEY PADDOCK

Local Spotlight: Creek Safe Working to make classrooms safer, one lock at a time School shootings are a parent’s worst nightmare, and a topic becoming all too familiar in the news. Although many would rather not even think about such a tragedy, one dedicated group of parents in Beavercreek decided they wanted to do more. Chris and Jennifer Beck, and Scott and Meghan Morgan were determined to join school district efforts to protect students if the unimaginable ever became a reality. Dayton Parent spoke to Jennifer Beck to learn more about Creek Safe and their mission.

How was Creek Safe started?

After the 2018 Parkland shooting, Beavercreek schools held a meeting to inform parents of their plans to employ additional safety measures, including Anchorman barricade door locks.

However, with the lack of funding available, the locks were only going to be installed on the doors of high-risk classrooms. After learning more, the four of us came together and decided we could work to raise the funds for all of the classrooms.

We met with the district, filed paperwork to secure our non-profit status, started a website and got rolling! We held over 60 events, raising more than $60,000, which allowed us to purchase a lock for every elementary school classroom in November 2018. Thanks to the Bellbrook Fence team, the locks were installed and we have now moved to Phase 2 of our mission: outfitting the middle schools, the freshman building and the high school with the Anchorman locks.

What are the benefits of the Anchorman locks?

Anchorman locks were designed by two former SWAT officers is Los Angeles, and we are so proud to be working with this company!

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The locks employ a simple two-step process to engage and require no fine motor skills to operate. Since the lock can be activated by anyone weighing over 50 pounds, it’s possible that a student could barricade a door, if needed.

Perhaps the most important benefit is that first responders can open the lock with an Anchorman-issued key, allowing them to easily assist students in an emergency.

What advice would you give to someone who may want to help another district?

We would love to see this take off in more schools.

After meeting with school decision-makers and filing proper paperwork with the state, it’s just a matter of reaching out to family, friends, local businesses and anyone who shares the goal of keeping our kids safe at school. We have received so much love and support from the community, and it truly warms our hearts to see everyone come together.

DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM I September / October 2019

What’s next for Creek Safe?

Once the locks are installed in every classroom, we would like to keep the organization active and continue to raise funds for maintenance and upkeep. We have also explored additional safety measures, such as a film to put on windows to make them more bullet resistant. We want to be sure we’re doing all we can to continue increasing the level of safety while eliminating additional fees for our school district.

To learn more about Creek Safe and to support their goals, visit their website at www.creeksafe.com.

PHOTO CREDITS CREEK SAFE

DP

on the go.

Family-friendly fun at your fingertips. daytonparentmagazine.com

September / October 2019 I DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

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SPONSORED CONTENT

When Your Child Has Trouble Focusing How can you tell when it’s time to seek help?

As a child matures, their ability to pay attention for longer periods of time should increase, too. But sometimes, children struggle with attention and focus, which can ultimately hold back their potential.

We spoke with Jennifer Jaynes, executive director and owner at Brain Balance in Dayton, to find out what to do when a child has trouble focusing in school.

What are some clues that your child might need help focusing in school?

There can be many red flags. With large class sizes, teachers have a room full of same-age comparables. If the teacher shares this as a concern, it is feedback to take seriously. Pay attention if your child struggles to complete their work in a timely manner, or completes the work but forgets to turn it in. These can be signs that they are struggling.

If a child is struggling to stay on task, what should a parent do?

hesitant, as they don't want the result to be a label or medication.

What is great about the Brain Balance assessment is it provides information to show whether areas of development are on track.

It’s hard to create an action plan to help a child if we don't truly understand where the challenge is coming from.

What else should parents know about this important topic?

A fascinating fact about the brain is that nothing happens in isolation. When one neuron fires, it can connect with up to 1,000 other neurons! This means if a child is struggling with focus, there will be other areas impacted, as well. Perhaps they have a hard time following multi-step directions or controlling their emotions when they become upset. As parents, it is easy to view each of these challenges as separate issues, when in fact, they can be related to areas of immature development. At Brain Balance, our assessment helps to identify the areas of immaturity, then we design a program to strengthen these areas.

I always encourage any parent with a concern to start with an assessment. Sometimes parents can be

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DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM I September / October 2019

TO DO WITH YOUR CREW

ARTS, BEATS AND EATS

4th ANNUAL ARTFEST

COUNTRY APPLEFEST

Dayton Art Institute is turning 100 years old in 2019, and they're celebrating their centennial with a community arts festival on Sunday, October 6 from Noon-7 pm! Get ready to party at this free family event, which features food trucks, a beer garden, live music, kid-friendly art activities, a photo booth and much more. The event will also showcase local nonprofit organizations, with activities and giveaways.

Located along the Creekside bike path at Community Park in Beavercreek, the 4th Annual ArtFest is a creative festival with local artists of all genres, performers and your favorite Miami Valley food trucks. Visitors will have the opportunity to help create hands-on art installation projects, eat delicious food, shop for beautiful handmade items, and enjoy stage and strolling performances by talented local musicians and artists. Admission to ArtFest is free and takes place Sunday, Sept. 15 from 11 am-6 pm.

For the first time, the 37th Annual Country Applefest will be two days: Saturday, Sept. 28 and Sunday, Sept. 29! Located at the Warren County Fairgrounds, the festival will continue the tradition of offering high-quality crafts, scrumptious food and fantastic entertainment, all in a family-friendly, alcoholfree environment. Lots of great food will be available, such as apple fritters, apple pies, caramel apples, fudge covered apples, BBQ sandwiches, pork chops, kettle corn, and crafts such as pottery, jewelry, wood crafts, wreaths and many more great items!

For more information, visit daytonart institute.org.

For more, visit infusion-art.org/ artfest.

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DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM I September / October 2019

Visit countryapple fest.com for more information.

WAGNER SUBARU OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE

FALL FARM PUMPKIN FESTIVAL AT YOUNG’S

Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience is the Midwest’s premier outdoor adventure festival, celebrating the outdoor lifestyle, Oct. 5 and 6 at Eastwood MetroPark. This family- and dog-friendly event features “try-it” activities, camping, competitions, live music, demos, gear specials and more. A waste-free event, OutdoorX attendees should bring their own beverage vessel or plan to purchase one at the event.

This all-ages event is free.

Saturday, Oct. 5, 11 am to 10 pm and Sunday, Oct. 6, 11 am to 4 pm.

Fall fun and treats await you on Oct. 5 and 6 at Young’s Jersey Dairy!

Bring a camera to snap your picture with Humongous Gus, a giant pumpkin; take a tour of the cheese-making facility; and try the newest addition to this annual event: pumpkin bowling!

Held rain or shine from 11 am-6 pm both days, spend the weekend enjoying the one of the best fall festivals in Dayton.

For more information, visit outdoorx.metro parks.org.

For more information, visit youngsdairy.com/ fall-farm-festival.

fun and WACKY DAYTON PARENT'S

Did you know that there is an official holiday for just about anything you can think of?

Here are a few fun days worth celebrating!

SEPTEMBER 9/2

9/18

10/14

Make mine a double.

Let them eat cake (or brownies or cookies or…)

CHEESEBURGER DAY

BLUEBERRY POPSICLE DAY

DESSERT DAY

9/19

Let’s all have blue tongues!

TALK LIKE A PIRATE DAY

Arrrrr! Avast ye matey!

9/6

READ A BOOK DAY

OCTOBER 10/2

NAME YOUR CAR DAY

His name is Earl.

Curl up with one of your favorites.

WORLD SMILE DAY

Show off those pearly whites.

NATIONAL GRANDPARENTS DAY

10/21

APPLE DAY

Get your crunch on.

10/22

CAPS LOCK DAY

LET’S

10/4

9/8

It’s a grand day!

ALL CELEBRATE!

10/27

BLACK CAT DAY

Hooray for these felines!

9/9

10/30

TEDDY BEAR DAY

Celebrate these cuddly friends.

CHECKLIST DAY

Done and done

9/22

DOODLE DAY

Sketch something silly.

10/8

10/31

We’re really stuck on this day.

Boo!

WORLD OCTOPUS DAY

9/24 9/12

VIDEO GAMES DAY

Mario and Sonic love this day.

9/16

PUNCTUATION DAY

We. Love?

Punctuation!

HALLOWEEN

10/10

HUG A DRUMMER DAY

Just watch out for those sticks.

GUACAMOLE DAY

Don’t forget the tortilla chips!

SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com

September / October 2019 I DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

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