September & October 2020 | Dayton Parent by Midwest Parenting Publications

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2020

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FALL Ten ways to experience the season

September 2020 I swOHIOparent.com

contents

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

features

The Scoop on Private Schools Five important facts that private schools want parents to know.

Fall Fun Around Town Family-friendly adventures to get into the autumn season.

departments In Every Issue 06 Letter from the Editor 08 News & Notes 10 Local Kids

Around Town

Young's Jersey Dairy

30 Find Fall Fun with

Parenting 12 Tips for a Successful Video Visit

Teens & Tweens 22 Return to School or Not?

swOHIOparent.com I September 2020

14 Dentists Guide 27 Things to Do in September

31 Fun & Wacky Calendar

15 Hidden Gems:

MetroParks' New Mobile App

Resources & Calendars

SPONSORED CONTENT

WORDS BY NATHAN FITE, PHD AND JONATHAN HOEHN, CO-OWNERS OF THE CHILD ANXIETY CENTER

Overcoming Back to School Anxiety in a Pandemic Going back to school can be anxiety-provoking for many children. This year is no different — except everything is magnified. Kids are excited to see their friends and teachers after months of being cooped up at home, but the fear of returning to a school that looks different from the one that they remember has created uncertainty. Families are making tough decisions about whether to send their children back to school in person or virtually. They are weighing the financial and educational ramifications of these decisions. The best thing you can do as a parent is accept your reality and give yourself grace as you make the decision that is right for your family.

What to do if your child is feeling anxious and afraid Anxiety can be a healthy response. It’s useful for children to gauge relative risk and to take necessary precautions. Anxiety is unhealthy under two conditions: when you are worried in the absence of a real threat, or when your worry is grossly disproportionate to the actual risk. The key to managing your child’s anxiety begins with an open dialogue.

Tips for talking about school with your children Limit exposure to media. Watching news stories does not alter circumstances. Be the gatekeeper of the f low of information in your home.

Be honest. If your children are asking about the risks of going back to school, explain it to them in a kid-friendly way that sticks to the facts. This reassures your kids that you believe in their ability to cope with difficult situations.

Develop a rhythm. Kids are experiencing changes to the structure of lives. We should try to create a rhythm for their day that is predictable. Just remember, this pandemic is unprecedented, so take it easy on yourself.

Name it to tame it. Acknowledge all emotions. If your child is feeling anxious, affirm that it is normal to feel that way during times of uncertainty. Then encourage them that you will get through it together.

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September 2020 I swOHIOparent.com

PARENTING

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DAYTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL

Tips for a Successful Video Visit 2020 has looked very different from other years in many different ways. One of these ways has included technology and healthcare visits. In fact, your child’s pediatrician or specialist may have already asked you to set up a video visit instead of an in-person visit. We know this may be your first time doing a video visit and you may be feeling a little overwhelmed with the novelty. However, we want to help you feel as prepared as possible for this appointment.

Here are a few tips on how to prepare your home space, your child and yourself for a seamless and enjoyable video visit experience!

Prepare Your Area · Rooms should be quiet and private, well lit, and with limited distractions. Also, make sure that you are in an area of your home with a good internet connection.

Prepare Yourself · Consider listing questions, concerns, medications, etc. ahead of time so you can address them with your provider. This will help the provider ensure efficient care. · Provide feedback! Please share with your provider any concerns, technical issues or positive feelings about your child’s video visit. Your provider will appreciate your response.

· With young children, you may wish to close the door to the area to keep them from running off.

Prepare Your Child · Share with your child ahead of time that the doctor will be talking to you both on the computer, tablet or phone for the appointment today. · Engaging a young child for an at-home video visit may be challenging. Consider having some quiet activities available to your child as you would for any clinic visit to help them stay focused. These activities could include coloring sheets or books, for example.

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swOHIOparent.com I September 2020

· Consider offering your child a small reward (like a sticker or small toy) for a great video session just as your child may receive a sticker in the provider’s office. · For highly active children or those with special needs, allow them to move about the area, and call them back as needed if the doctor needs to see them, rather than trying to force them to remain seated.

Video visits may seem intimidating at first, but don’t worry. Your provider is there to help you feel informed and help you and your child feel at ease. Good luck on your first video visit!

September 2020 I swOHIOparent.com

DENTISTS GUIDE

Loveland Pediatric Dentistry 10570 Loveland Madeira Rd., Loveland, OH 45140

(513) 806-2060 | PediatricDentistLoveland.com We are a brand new pediatric dental office serving children ages 0-21 including those with special health care needs. Our facility is modern and fun for all ages. We have a sensory room for those who are not yet ready for the traditional dental chair. Children love the tvs on the ceiling and choosing a toy from our prize wall. We focus on prevention but have a full range of treatment and sedation options if needed. Complementary first exam under 24 months old. COVID Policy: Brand new clean, modern facility. Paperless and touch-free communication. Private rooms available. Following all CDC/Dental Board/Health Department guidelines for cleaning & PPE. Temperature and symptom screening of all people entering office. Masks required for everyone in office 10 and up. Please call/text us upon arrival so we can limit waiting room usage and maintain social distancing. Read our full safety details at: pediatricdentistloveland.com/safety/.

Centerville Pediatric Dentistry & Keep Smiling Kids 273 Regency Ridge Dr., Centerville, OH 45459

(937) 586-7729 | CentervillePediatricDentistry.com We provide gentle, compassionate comprehensive dental care for infants, children, and adolescents. Our offices are specifically designed for children to create a welcoming and positive experience each and every visit with us. Two convenient locations in Centerville & Beavercreek. COVID Policy: Safety is of the utmost importance during these unprecedented times. Please see our website for more information for COVID-19 protocols and what we are doing to keep you and your child safe during your visit with us.

swOHIOparent.com I September 2020

HIDDEN GEMS

WORDS BY SARAH MCCOSHAM

Young’s Jersey Dairy Located in Yellow Springs, you’ll find family-friendly farm fun at Young’s Jersey Dairy all year round, but this Ohio gem really comes alive in the fall. Young’s is a real working dairy farm, and the transparency with which this farm is run is admirable. Animal lovers will be pleased to see that the cows are extremely well cared for, as are the goats, pigs and other farm friends. Young’s has a free petting zoo where kids can get up close with a variety of friendly farm animals. (Every day between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m., you can watch staff milk the cows in the barn. Most days, the person doing the milking is a Young family member!) Foodies, meanwhile, will go gaga for the farm-fresh cheese curds and next-level ice cream concoctions. But Young’s isn’t just a delightful dairy farm — it’s truly a familyfriendly destination. There’s an impressive selection of outdoor sports for families of all ages. “Udders & Pudders” features batting cages with hardball and softball machines, two miniature golf courses and a natural grass driving range.

In addition to sports, there are plenty of fall festival favorites open year-round at Young’s: the Moovers & Shakers barrel ride runs daily and is a huge hit with kids of all ages; meanwhile the “Kiddie Corral” area features tiny tractors and tunnels, and is udderly delightful for toddlers. And if your kids have a need for speed, Cowvin’s Fast Slide is a must! Young’s hosts events throughout the year, and the farm’s “Pick Your Own Pumpkin” days and Fall Farm Pumpkin Festival are beloved favorites. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, the Fall Festival is cancelled; however, this beloved farm is keeping the fall fun alive with “haunted” hayrides, pumpkineverything and plenty of corn maze magic. Young’s Dairy is one of Ohio’s most delightful destinations, and absolutely worth a trip. There’s always something fun happening at Young’s, and fall is the best time to explore this family-friendly farm.

6880 Springfield Xenia Rd., Yellow Springs

youngsdairy.com

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T HE SCOOP ON

F I V E I M P O R TA N T FAC T S T H AT P R I VAT E S C H O O L S WA N T PA R E N T S TO K N OW.

WORDS BY STEFFY MCCOURT

he 2020 pandemic has led to virtual learning at home for many children. Because of this, parents, more than ever before, have had a front-row seat to their children’s learning experience. Some parents have begun to question whether public education was the best education for their children. If you are considering sending your child to private school, here are five facts that private schools want parents to know.

swOHIOparent.com I September 2020

The student-to-teacher ratio in private schools is oftentimes half of what public schools can offer. Smaller class size means more oneon-one interaction with students and more meaningful planning time for educators. A National Education Association policy brief published in 2008 stated, “The effect of smaller classes on student achievement extends far beyond the early grades. Follow-up studies… show higher achievement levels in reading, language, math, science and social studies. Additionally, students in smaller classes showed more positive behaviors towards engagement and learning than did the students in larger classes.”

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2. The idea of paying for an education can dissuade parents from even looking into private education. However, most private schools offer financial aid, which is driven by parental income. “We are committed to providing access to as many families as possible,” says Karla DeJean, writer and project manager at The Seven Hills School in Cincinnati. “Our need-based financial assistance program allows families to qualify for reduced tuition based on their unique financial circumstances. Instead of ‘receiving financial aid,’ those families who qualify will pay a reduced tuition amount based on their individual circumstances.”

3. Due to smaller class sizes, and a low student-teacher ratio, private schools can prioritize teaching through relationships. This means that students play the role of co-learner alongside their teacher. “The sense of community is one of the things I am most proud of,” says Lisa Larocca, marketing director for St. Helen Catholic School in Dayton. “This community is made up of relationships between teachers with students but also with parents and guardians. These relationships are so important in an educational setting. The strength of these relationship is evident by the number of students who want to return to visit their favorite teacher. It really helps put our kids on a successful path to their high school career and beyond.” Charlotte Berwanger, a 1990 graduate of St. Helen School, says of her teachers: “There are so many memories. There is something from every grade. Each teacher left a lasting memory for me in a positive way.”

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A huge selling feature for many parents is the fact that their child will be able to try out for and participate in a variety of sports and extracurricular activities.

“With our no-cut policy and broad range of sports to choose from, if students want to compete, they join a team!” Dejean says. “Our students learn early on what it means to be students and athletes, and how to be responsible balancing the two.” Larocca emphasizes the importance of sports and extracurricular activities in a well-rounded student. “Extra-curricular activities, including sports, play a vital role in a child's education,” she says. “They allow for important social and physical development.”

5. Because of diversity initiatives in the 1980s and 1990s, private schools proactively search for diverse and qualified candidates. They work with families, providing financial aid when needed, to create a student population that enhances the learning landscape.

There are many plusses about choosing a private school, and you can learn more about the individual school you’re considering by scheduling a tour, whether in-person or virtual. Touring a school will allow you to experience it better than just reading about it online, and will answer a lot of the questions you may have. Private schools are excited to show parents and students all of the great opportunities they have to offer!

September 2020 I swOHIOparent.com

TEENS & TWEENS

WORDS BY REBECCA HILL

Return to School or Not? Dealing with the uncertainty of returning to school during a pandemic. Will my kids bring COVID-19 home from school, and can they increase community spread?

For Cincinnati mom Katie Bradley, deciding whether to send her kids back to school has been stressful. With three kids, in first and eighth grade and high school, she has mixed feelings, especially since she has already received an email about a teacher testing positive for COVID-19.

Bradley is not alone. All over the nation, parents are wrestling with the idea of sending their kids back to school. They’ve got lots of questions. So, here are some basic questions about making that journey back to school and the facts behind them.

What percentage of kids are getting COVID-19? Because COVID-19 is a new virus, scientific evidence on its impact on kids is limited, especially with the spring shutdowns. But current evidence indicates that while kids can be infected, most children are asymptomatic or have a very mild case of the virus. Evidence does exist that children can spread the virus to others. A recent preliminary study found that that symptomatic children shed similar viral loads as adults do.

Anyone who has sent their kids to school knows the answer to this question. School is a petri dish of viruses and infections. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a few reports exist showing that children can be the primary source of transmission with family members. Unfortunately, no clear evidence exists at this point on the rate of transmission that could occur.

Will my kids get the virus by going to school? A recent study in the medical journal The Lancet found that among children between the ages of 5 to 9 years old, the risk of being positive for COVID-19 was low. But for children 10-19 years old, a South Korean study found that those children can spread the virus at least as well as adults do. Deaths among children have been few, and the percentage of children needing hospitalization is substantially lower than it is with adults. The science, however, continues to change, so uncertainty about a child’s ability to get and to give COVID-19 remains.

Will teachers be safe? Less data exists about how teachers will be impacted by returning to school. A French study of 541 students and 46 teachers found no documented transmissions from students to teachers. But how likely the virus will be transmitted from teacher to teacher or other staff remains a question, especially since the average age of a U.S. teacher is early- to mid-40s. Because schools are like crowded indoor settings, the likelihood of transmission between adults may be higher than that of transmission from child to teacher.

And if teachers get sick, what happens? According to Cincinnati teacher Pattie Reuss, “Teachers will get sick and have to quarantine,” she says, leaving schools to address if they have sufficient coverage when teachers are sick.

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Why should kids return to schools? Along with social interaction and learning achievements, many schools provide a sanctuary for kids who may be abused or don’t get enough to eat. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently issued a statement saying that “lengthy time away from school and associated interruption of supportive services often results in social isolation, making it difficult for schools to identify and address important learning deficits, as well as child and adolescent physical or sexual abuse, substance abuse, depression, and suicidal ideation.”

September 2020 I swOHIOparent.com

SPONSORED CONTENT

Bishop Leibold: At School and At Home Families can choose the learning environment that works best for them. Spring of 2020 brought many uncertainties to families when it comes to education. At Bishop Leibold School, we have been working tirelessly to re-open our buildings and bring our community back together. We know that one of the things that sets us apart is our focus on educating the whole student by using our faith as our guide. That means that we are looking at not only bringing students back together physically but building a community around our e-learning option for families we have named Leibold at Home. Students will have the opportunity to choose the learning environment that is best for their family, but they can do so knowing that one thing they can always expect from us is a focus on faith, inspiring growth, and providing a true family experience. For example, when spring brought to us the unexpected requirement to close our daily school environment, not only did we move quickly to online instruction, we also became creative to still have our various family events. We hosted virtual events like donuts with mom, weekend Masses from our parishes, and an online cooking class for families to sustain our community.

For as long as the pandemic keeps any of our students at home during the 2020-21 school year, we are committed to providing our true family experience at home and at school. Leibold at Home students will be able to join their teacher and classmates via live streaming the classes. They will participate in our weekly Mass and Virtue Campaign which is used during the year to recognize students that exemplify the characteristics of the virtue for which we are focused monthly. Our multi-tiered Student Support Team (MTSS) will provide defined interventions and accommodations. Families will be connected through Google Classroom training and our various Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) activities such as Open House, Grandparentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Day, etc.

We are looking forward to welcoming our students back, both online and in person. It is going to be a great year at Bishop Leibold!

BROUGHT TO YOU BY PHOTO CREDITS

swOHIOparent.com I September 2020

BISHOP LEIBOLD SCHOOL

FALL FUN AROUND TOWN Family-friendly adventures to get into the autumn season. WORDS BY SARAH MCCOSHAM

T h e le a v e s a re c h a n g in g , th e a ir is c o o lin g : It ’s fa ll! Fa ll is a b u s y tim e o f y e a r in s o u th w e s t O h io , a n d it c a n b e e a s y to fe e l o v e rw h e lm e d . A n d a s w e n a v ig a te th e s e a s o n p o s t-p a n d e m ic , y o u m a y b e w o n d e rin g w h a t o p tio n s a re a v a ila b le fo r fa m ily fu n . We’ll give you the lowdown on all the socially distant, family-friendly and fun fall activities happening in the area, so you can make the most of this wonderful season.

Pick apples There’s just something special about picking your own produce, and fall brings plenty of U-Pick opportunities at local apple orchards. Iron’s Fruit Farm in Lebanon is one of the finest in the area; their UPick season runs into October and features Paula Red, McIntosh and Gala varieties. Meanwhile, if you’re up for a bit of a trip, A&M Farm Orchard in Midland is well worth the drive.

Go for a hike Take advantage of fall’s cooler temps by going on a family hike. The Great Parks of Hamilton County, Cincinnati Parks and Cincinnati Nature Center are wonderful options in Cincinnati, while John Bryan State Park is quite possibly the most scenic spot in the Dayton area. Need extra motivation? September 19-27 is Green Umbrella’s Great Outdoor Week, which features more than 100 FREE outdoor activities in Southwest Ohio.

Visit a pumpkin patch Watching your kids trudge across an orange-speckled field of pumpkins is a parental rite of passage. Shaw Farms, Burwinkel Farms and Brown’s Family Farm all boast a beautiful selection of fall’s unofficial mascot. And of course, Young’s Jersey Dairy in Yellow Springs has one of the most picturesque pumpkin patches in Ohio!

Do a fall festival It just isn’t fall without festivals. Local favorites include Fall Fest at Neltner’s Farm, Gorman Farm’s acclaimed Sunflower Festival and Learning Tree Farm's Autumn Family Adventure Series. Sit down with your family calendar and plot out your fall festival fun! Be sure to check your favorites for their COVID-19 safety guidelines.

Conquer a corn maze While you’re planning your fall festival circuit, be sure to include a couple of corn mazes. Loveland’s Blooms & Berries has two: a 7-acre labyrinth that takes about an hour to conquer and a smaller, more kidfriendly, 15-minute maze. And if you’re up for a drive, Shaw Farms in Milford boasts a 12-acre maze that’s not for the faint of heart.

Enjoy the local colors Ohio is at its most beautiful in the fall. Red, orange, yellow and gold — you’ll see all the colors of the autumn rainbow! Pyramid Hill in Butler County is an outdoor museum comprised of over 60 monumental pieces of sculpture in an outdoor environment of meadows, forests and rolling hills, and is breathtaking in the fall. Meanwhile, Hueston Woods is a Southwest Ohio favorite that’s well worth the drive each autumn.

Take a hayride Hayrides are a necessary part of fall, and the covered wagon rides at Bonnybrook Farms are about as charming as it gets. And if your kids prefer horseback rides to hayrides, Nation Road Horse Rental in Oxford takes guests on a picture-perfect trek through the beautiful backwoods of Butler County.

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Decorate for fall Pick up some autumn mums, find the most bizarrely shaped gourds or get a little fancy by making your own scarecrow. Station Road Farm in West Chester and Montgomery’s Pipkins Market each boast a bounty of fresh fall produce, blooms and décor. Meanwhile, Brown’s Family Farm Market in Hamilton is known for its impressive selection of fall produce and notions: corn stalks, gourds, mums, pumpkins — they have it all!

Carve a pumpkin Embrace the mess and get your kids involved in digging out pumpkin guts and designing next-level ‘lanterns. Whether you prepare your masterpieces days before Halloween or the night of, be sure you “carve” out time for this fun fall tradition.

Go trick-or-treating before Halloween Ohio kids have it pretty great — there are tons of opportunities to trick-or-treat before the big night. HallZOOween at the Cincinnati Zoo and Jack O’Lantern Junction at EnterTRAINment Junction are two fan favorites; meanwhile, history buffs definitely need to check out Heritage Village’s Haunted Village, which features trick-or-treating in a festive, justspooky-enough setting.

W e’re e n te rin g th e b e st tim e o f th e ye a r, S o u th w e st O h io p a re n ts! G ra b yo u r fa m ily, frie n d s a n d a P u m p k in S p ic e L a tte a n d fa ll fo r fa ll.

swOHIOparent.com I September 2020

THINGS TO DO

SEPTEMBER

PLEASE NOTE DUE TO COVID-19, THESE EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. PLEASE CHECK TO VERIFY EVENTS ARE STILL BEING HELD AS SCHEDULED BEFORE MAKING PLANS TO ATTEND BY CALLING OR VISITING THE BUSINESS OR EVENT WEBSITE.

fri 04-sun 06 LABOR DAY WEEKEND AT YOUNG’S JERSEY DAIRY

Take advantage of a special Family Value wristband good for all day, unlimited family fun at Young’s Jersey Dairy, including Udders & Putters, Moovers & Shakers, Cowvin’s Fast Slide and Cowvin’s Kiddie Corral. Each wristband is good for all day fun on the date purchased. Cost is $15/person 12 and up and $9/child 11 and under. Wristbands can be purchased at Cowvin’s Corny Bin. • Time: Check website, Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy, youngsdairy.com/labor-day-familyvalue-weekend

sat 05 MADCAP PUPPETS AT SUMMIT PARK

Enjoy a free MadCap Puppets show at Summit Park! Located under the Canopy. • Time: 11 am,

Location: Summit Park, summitparkblueash.com/calendar. php FREE

sat 12 BOONSHOFT BASH TO BASICS

BASH to Basics is an exploration of how parents/educators inform and inspire, through B-Biology, A-Astronomy, S-STEM and H-History. You'll learn about wildlife and animals through the team in the Discovery Zoo, examine galaxies and stars with the Astronomy team, discover the science around us with our STEM education team and learn more about Dayton history. This year, BASH will also include a virtual Art Auction featuring pieces created by members and teams within the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery and SunWatch, as well as other unique works of art donated by local artists. • Time: 7-8 pm, Location: Virtual, boonshoftmuseum.org/ events-activities/boonshoft-bash

DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP TOUCH A TRUCK

RUBBER DUCK REGATTA

Climb in a variety of vehicles and receive fun giveaways at this free community event! • Time: 10 am-2 pm, Location: Deerfield Towne Center, deerfieldrec.com FREE

sat 19 CITY FLEA

The City Flea is Cincinnati's original curated, urban flea market that takes place once a month at Washington Park. The Flea is a place to keep your dollars local, support small business and experience Cincinnati in a unique and engaging way. • Time: 10 am-4 pm, Location: Washington Park, thecityflea.com FREE

Join URS for the 17th Annual Rubber Duck Regatta at RiverScape Metro Park and watch as 20,000 rubber ducks are dropped by crane for a race to the finish for great prizes! • Time: 4:30 pm, Location: Riverscape MetroPark, daytonducks.com/ FREE

sun 20 FALL EQUINOX TRAIL RUN FOR WOMEN AND GIRLS

Celebrate the summer solstice at Cincinnati Nature Center. Join us on our award-winning trails as we “unplug” from our daily lives and “plug-in” to nature. This will be a two-part trail run. Click on the Tickets button for more information or to register. • Time: 9 am, Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, calendar.cincynature.org

MONARCH FESTIVAL

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s Monarch Festival will celebrate these most beautiful and beloved pollinators. A fun and educational event for the entire family, the festival is open to all zoo visitors. It will feature educational booths and activities, a monarch tagging demonstration and a migration parade. • Time: 10 am-2 pm, Location: Cincinnati Zoo, cincinnatizoo.org/events/monarchfestival

sat 19-sun 27 GREAT OUTDOOR WEEKEND WEEK!

Green Umbrella is proud to present Great Outdoor Weekend, an annual outdoor events sampler in the Southwest Ohio region that is held in September. This year, in light of COVID-19, this event has

September 2020 I swOHIOparent.com

been expanded to nine days and will include a variety of activities that can be done alone, in addition to a limited number of in-person masked and socially distanced events. • Time: Check website, Location: Varies, greatoutdoor weekend.org FREE

sat 26 & sun 27 PYRAMID HILL ART AND MUSIC FESTIVAL

A full weekend of live music, family-friendly activities, food trucks, crafts and games for kids of all ages. More than 70 artist and designer booths selling handmade gifts and artwork. • Time: Check website, Location: Pyramid Hill, pyramidhill.org

ONGOING EVENTS HANK WILLIS THOMAS: ALL THINGS BEING EQUAL Sept. 4-Nov. 8

All Things Being Equal contains more than 90 works including Thomas’ early photographic series, sculptures and multi-media works that reinterpret the photographic record of historic twentieth-century events, monumental textile works constructed from reclaimed prison uniforms and athletic jerseys, interactive video installations and public art projects. • Time: Check website, Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, cincinnatiartmuseum.org/ hankwillisthomas FREE

AUTUMN FAMILY ADVENTURE SERIES AT LEARNING TREE FARM Sept. 26-Oct. 25

In order to keep everyone safe and to meet current guidelines due to COVID-19, instead of a single Autumn Fest event, we’ll kick off a month-long series on September 26th that will continue through October 25th where families will complete weekly themed challenges ! • Cost: $30 per family,

TREATS AND TRICKS FALL FEST

JACK O’LANTERN JUNCTION

Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 26-Nov. 1

Sept. 19-Oct. 31

A one-of-a-kind fall festival to make special memories and enjoy the season—safely. Everyone in the family will have a spook-tacular time with AMAZING food, activities, entertainment, seasonal merchandise and so much more. Trick-or-treating is definitely on the agenda, so wear your Halloween costumes and go candy hunting with us! With specially designed sanitation processes and social distancing measures in place, you can count on Kings Island to bring this Halloween tradition to life in a fun new way while being as safe as possible. • Location: Kings Island, visitkingsisland.com/play/events/ tricks-and-treats-fall-fest

PICK YOUR OWN PUMPKINS AT YOUNG’S Sept. 19-Oct. 25

Young’s boasts acres of pumpkin fun where you can find your perfect pumpkin. Young’s has grown and sold pumpkins for decades – and they’re looking forward to a lot of orange this fall! •

Time: Open 11am to 6pm daily, Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy, youngsdairy.com/ pick-your-own-pumpkins

SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK Through Sept. 7

CSC provides one of the largest programs for free outdoor Shakespeare in the nation, both in number of stops and the radius of the region visited. Admission to Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s Shakespeare in the Park Tour is free and open to the public. There are no ticket or RSVPs required. Due to COVID-19, the Shakespeare in the Park tour schedule will be announced on a rolling basis. Please check back for updates closer to opening. • Time: Check website, Location: Various outdoor venues around Cincinnati, cincyshakes. com/shakespeare-in-the-park FREE

Location: Learning Tree Farm, learningtreefarm.org

Halloween fun for the whole family! Walk through a kid-friendly trick-or-treat maze, visit a mini animated display and visit the area’s only indoor pumpkin patch, where kids each get a free mini pumpkin! • Time: Open daily, Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, entertrainmentjunction.com

FALL ON THE FARM AT BLOOMS AND BERRIES Sept. 19-Oct. 31

Fall on the Farm offers hayrides, cow train rides, two corn mazes, a bounce pad, pumpkin patches, farm animals and much more! • Time: Check website, Location: Blooms and Berries, bloomsandberries.com

FALL FUN AT NIEDERMAN FAMILY FARM Sept. 25-Oct. 31

Niederman Family Farm's fall activities run weekends through October 31. This charming Butler County farm offers traditional fall activities, out-of-the-box fun and delicious, homemade treats. • Time: Check website, Location: Niederman Farm, niedermanfamilyfarm.com

BURGER FARM FALL FESTIVAL Sept. 26-Oct. 25 (Weekends)

Burger Farm & Garden Center hosts one of the largest fall festivals in Cincinnati, with pumpkins, fall décor, rides, games, food, music, farm animals, crafters and more. “Play All Day” admission is $10/person and children 2 and under are free. • Time: Check website, Location: Burger Farm & Garden Center, burgerfarms.com/fall-festival

HAUNTED WAGON RIDES Sept. 25-26 & Fridays and Saturdays in October

Things are going to get a little scary around Young’s this fall! Young’s Haunted Wagon Rides are a family-friendly activity that will help get you into the proper Halloween spirit! • Time: Check website, Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy, youngsdairy.com/haunted-wagonrides

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MAYA: THE EXHIBITION Through Jan. 3, 2021

For the first time in the United States, the mysteries of the Maya come to life. Through over 300 artifacts, discover how the Maya live on today — in their inventions that continue to shape our daily lives and in the millions who carry on the Maya tradition in language and lineage. • Time: This is a timed

exhibit; check website for times, Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, cincymuseum.org

BARBIE: YOU CAN BE ANYTHING Daily through March 2021

From career dolls to real-world role models, Barbie has been inspiring girls since 1959 -- and she isn't done yet! The Children's Museum is proud to partner with Mattel to celebrate 60 years of Barbie with a new exhibit opening soon. The exhibit will showcase the iconic Barbie doll and encourage the kind of imaginative play that teaches us that no matter our gender, ethnicity, or background, we can all make the world a better place by doing work that excites us, challenges us, and brings us fulfillment. Exhibit free for members and included with admission; advanced registration is required. • Time: Open daily with RSVP, Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, childrensmuseum.org

FAR FLUNG AT THE TAFT MUSEUM

The Taft Museum of Art is home to a unique fantasy experience brought to life by world-renowned sculptor Patrick Dougherty. Dougherty has taken six tons of willow tree saplings and twisted and turned them — with the amazing help of more than 150 community volunteers — into whimsical, whirling shapes on the Taft’s front lawn. Free to experience; museum admission sold separately. • Time: Open daily, Location: Taft Museum, taftmuseum. org FREE

AROUND TOWN

BROUGHT TO YOU BY LAUREN LEMONS, FIVE RIVERS METROPARKS

Find Fall Fun with MetroParks’ New Mobile App Five Rivers MetroParks invites you to take an outdoor family adventure this fall with a little help from its new mobile app powered by OuterSpatial. The app allows visitors to access information about parks and trails from mobile devices, discover new places, navigate the trails, plan visits and more.

Perhaps most exciting for families are the self-guided tours, or “outings,” featured in the app. During times when people must be diligent about being socially distant, these self-guided outings allow families to tour MetroParks’ points of interest on their own time and at their own pace.

Featured Self-guided Tours Carriage Hill MetroPark Historical Farm: This farm celebrates the Miami Valley’s agricultural heritage. Visitors can see a 19th century farm and remnants from a time when sustainable farm and home practices were simply practical. Currently, the Carriage Hill Historical Farm buildings are closed to slow the spread of COVID-19, but families can explore the grounds of the farm. Heritage farm animals — including horses, sheep and goats — call the Carriage Hill Historical Farm home. Though the barn isn’t open to visitors, the animals often graze in the fields and sometimes enjoy saying “hello” to visitors.

Find fall color at the MetroParks Mountain Biking Area (MoMBA) along the Creekside Trail and at Taylorsville MetroPark on the paved Great Miami River Trail. Dayton Inventors River Walk: Dayton has a rich history of innovation, which you can learn about by talking a stroll at RiverScape MetroPark. As far back as the 1880s, innovation was happening in Dayton, producing more patents per capita than any other place in the United States. The Dayton Inventors River Walk highlights many Dayton inventions that make our lives better, from powered flight to the search engine. As you explore, think about how many of these inventions you use today.

There are seven invention stations represented by large works of art. They are: • Automobile Self Starter (Charles Kettering) • LexisNexis Search Engine • Hydraulic Jump Fountain (Arthur Morgan) • Wright Flyer (Wright brothers)

Hike: Kelly Kingery suggested heading to Possum Creek MetroPark for a fall stroll. Admire the color while relaxing to fish, find turtles and listen to owls.

Create Your Own Adventure A seasonal family-friendly favorite is finding fall color. This activity can be done independently with help from MetroParks’ mobile app. While you can find beautiful fall color at all the parks, MetroParks’ outdoor recreation specialists offered these specific must-sees: Bike: Jordan Hart suggested grabbing your bikes to experience fall color.

• Pop-Top Can (Ermal Fraze) • Cash Register (John Patterson) • Ice Cube Trays (Vincent Apple)

“Fall is my favorite time of the year to get out and ride because of the cooler weather,” he says.

Hills & Dales MetroPark is also a must for leaf peeping. The warm fall colors complement the beautiful Adirondack structures. The Adirondack Trail is a shorter, mostly paved trail, making it an easy walk for kids and older adults.

Paddle: Hart is also fond of a relaxing fall paddle at the Eastwood MetroPark Lagoon to check out changing leaves. If you’re interested in a fall family river adventure, put in at Aullwood Garden MetroPark and paddle the Stillwater River to Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark.

Download the Five Rivers MetroParks Mobile App powered by OuterSpatial for free on Apple and Android by visiting metroparks.org/ mobile.

PHOTO CREDITS

FIVE RIVERS METROPARKS

September 2020 I swOHIOparent.com

swOHIOparent.com I September 2020

fun and WACKY DAYTON PARENT'S

CALENDAR

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!

OCTOBER

SEPTEMBER 9/3

10/1

SKYSCRAPER DAY

INTERNATIONAL COFFEE DAY

Love those tall buildings!

Grab a cup of joe.

9/6 What are you reading?

10/20

10/5

READ A BOOK DAY

9/12 VIDEO GAMES DAY

WORLD TEACHERS DAY

Celebrate these heroes!

The slooooowest day of the year.

Minecraft, anyone?

9/16

10/7

GUACAMOLE DAY

BATHTUB DAY

Smash an avocado.

10/24 MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY

Change the world!

Bring your rubber duckie.

10/26

9/19

PUMPKIN DAY

TALK LIKE A PIRATE DAY

9/8 STAR TREK DAY

Live long and prosper!

Shiver me timbers!

9/22 DOODLE DAY

9/9 QUIET DAY

Draw something fun.

9/25 WORLD DREAM DAY

Follow your dreams!

INTERNATIONAL SLOTH DAY

Pick a good one.

10/9 EGG DAY

10/29

Which came first?

CAT DAY

The purr-fect day!

10/13 TRAIN YOUR BRAIN DAY

Flex that “muscle” in your head.

10/14 DESSERT DAY

A day to indulge.

SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com

September 2020 I swOHIOparent.com

September & October 2020 | Dayton Parent

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