1014 cp issuu

Cin cin n ati

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 4 // F R E E

PINT SIZED

PURSUITS ENRI C HMENT AC TI V ITIES F OR THE PRES C HOOL C ROW D

BREAST TEST

BREAKDOWN A GUIDE TO S C REENING AND EARLY DETE C TION

fall fun IN CINCY

F rom a ppl e s a nd pumpkins to ghost s a n d g h ou l s !

2014-2015 PRIVATE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE

IN EVERY ISSUE

contents

// OCTOBER 2014

C I N C I N N AT I PA R E N T. C O M

C O M M E N TA R Y & PA R E N T I N G 12

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

Crossing our T’s

13

TRUE CONFESSIONS OF A STAY-AT-HOME DAD

The end of diaper bags, infant car seats and strollers

34

ASK THE TEACHER

Correcting a teacher, reasonable bedtimes, feeling unliked by a teacher

C H I L D R E N ’ S H E A LT H 32

WHEN CHILDREN WITNESS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Recognizing the pervasive effects on kids

IN EVERY ISSUE

F E AT U R E S

14 18

PINT SIZED PURSUITS

Enrichment activities for the preschool crowd

EDITOR’S NOTE

08

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

10

ONLINE BUZZ

FALL FUN! From apples and pumpkins to ghosts and ghouls, this season has it all!

22

BREAST TEST BREAKDOWN

38

STEPPING INTO STEP-PARENTING Suggestions for navigating this new territory

40

HALLOWEEN: TRICKS AND TREATS FOR LEARNING

04

06

A guide to breast cancer screening and early detection

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

RESOURCES & CALENDARS 16

PRESCHOOL ENRICHMENT GUIDE

20

FALL FUN GUIDE

28

OPEN HOUSE GUIDE

35

PRESCHOOL & EDUCATION GUIDE

42

DAILY EVENTS

50

ONGOING EVENTS

51

FUN & WACKY CALENDAR

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

05

EDITOR'S NOTE

MEET THE STAFF P ublisher Mary Wynne Cox • mary@cincinnatiparent.com E D I TO R Susan Bryant • susan@cincinnatiparent.com M A R K ET I N G / / C R E AT I V E DIRECTOR Katie Clark • katie@cincinnatiparent.com A DV E RT I S I N G / / S A LE S DIRECTOR // EV E N T S CO O R D I N ATOR Jennifer Baum • jennifer@cincinnatiparent.com ACCO UN T E X E C U TIVES Katy Mark • katy@cincinnatiparent.com Melissa Wittenbaum • melissa@cincinnatiparent.com A dvertising Coordinator Jennifer Beahrs • jbeahrs@cincinnatiparent.com

All That’s Fall!

W

hat’s not to love about October? Thirty-one days of color floating down from the trees, warm apple cider taking the chill off a cool afternoon, plump pumpkins waiting to be transformed into jack o’ lanterns… and a grand finale of candy and costumes at the end of the month!

This time of year is packed with ways to make the most of this vibrant season. To get you started, check out our info on Fall Fun and our October Events Calendar for a rundown of local apple orchards, hay mazes, pumpkin patches, harvest festivals and Halloween festivities your family will love.

October is also National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Advances in early detection mean everincreasing survival rates; read Breast Test Breakdown for a description of the most popular screening methods doctors are using today.

P U B L I C R E L AT I O N S / / WEB EDITOR Wendy Cox • wendy@cincinnatiparent.com

Do you have a preschooler at home that needs to burn off a little energy?

The options for enrichment activities for this age group are almost endless in our area and Pint-sized Pursuits can help you find just the right one to stimulate your child’s interests and make some new friends along the way.

Also in this issue we take a look at the often complex nature of stepparenting. If you’re new to this role, you know that finding your way in this relationship can be tricky. For some suggestions from the experts, and from parents who have been in your shoes, take a look at Stepping into Step-Parenting to help guide your path.

As always, thank you for picking up this issue of Cincinnati Parent. We wish you an October filled with caramel apples, spooky fun and snuggles in cozy blankets!

06

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

E ditorial A ssistant Wendy Schrepferman • s.wendy@cincinnatiparent.com B usiness M anager / / Accounting Roxanne Burns • roxanne@cincinnatiparent.com CO N T R I B U T I N G W RITERS Michelle Shirk, Megan Noel, Steffy McCourt, Sarah Bricker-Hunt, Pete Gilbert, Deb Krupowicz, Kelly Blewett, Dr. Valerie Allen, Sarah Painer of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital P H OTO GR A P H ERS Front Cover: Lisa Hezlep Inside Magazine: Sara Timmer, Kristan McIntosh, Alli Marie Photography, Trisha Couch C A LE N DA R O F EV ENTS calendar@cincinnatiparent.com Contact Us 9435 Waterstone Blvd., Ste. 140, Cincinnati, OH 45249 P: (513) 444-2015 • F: (513) 444-2099 CO P Y R I GH T Cincinnati Parent Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2014 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.

EDITOR PHOTO CREDIT // KRISTAN MCINTOSH

GR A P H I C S A S S I S TANT Maria Tancredi • maria@cincinnatiparent.com

IN EVERY ISSUE

COMMUNIT Y

K ings Island puts the W ee! in Halloween!

Learn tips and tricks from a LEGO M aster Builder!

The LEGO Master Builder Academy is just one of the many exciting areas families can visit during the Indianapolis LEGO KidsFest, a giant, hands-on, traveling LEGO extravaganza! Visitors will also enjoy DUPLO and LEGO building areas with thousands of bricks, The Challenge Zone, Creation Nation, an incredible LEGO Model Museum and more in this three acre space! All sessions offer the same exhibits and activities and all activities are included in the price of admission.

During the day on select weekends, it’s all fun and no fear at Kings Island! Families will enjoy Snoopy’s Halloween Party, a petting zoo, tricks and treats, hay bale mazes, a costume parade, foam pit and attend Snoopy’s Halloween Party!

Saturdays and Sundays, October 4 - 26, 2014 Kings Island 6300 Kings Island Drive Mason, OH 45040 (513) 754-5700 | www.visitkingsisland.com Times and ticket pricing vary.

November 7 - 9, 2014 Friday: 4:00 pm - 8:30 pm Saturday & Sunday: Session I: 9:00 am - 1:30 pm, Session II: 3:00 pm - 7:30 pm Indianapolis Convention Center - Halls I, J, K 100 South Capitol Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46225 (317) 262-3400 | www.legokidsfest.com Tickets: $20 for kids, $22 for adults

Disney On Ice returns to Cincinnati Disney On Ice presents Princesses and Heroes!

Experience the magic of high-flying jumps, daring acrobatics, breathtaking skating and lovable Disney friends such as Ariel, Prince Eric, Jasmine, Aladdin, Elsa, Anna, Olaf and many more!

October 29 - November 2, 2014

SHOW YOU R SU PP ORT FOR A N T I-BU LLY ING Stomp out bullying and sign the anti-bullying pledge with Vice Mayor Roxanne Qualls and Cincinnati School Board President Eileen CooperReed. Food, fellowship, live performances, speakers, short films and a variety of vendors will be on hand at this free, open to the public rally.

October 12, 2014, Noon - 5:00 pm Bond Hill Recreation Center 1501 Elizabeth Place, Cincinnati, OH 45237 Call (513) 739-0382 or email jreasali@hotmail.com for more information.

Facebook: Rally For National Bullying Month

U.S. Bank Arena 100 Broadway, Cincinnati, OH 45202 1-800-745-3000 | www.disneyonice.com Tickets: from $17.00

T he Sunflower F estival was voted best in Ohio!

The Gorman Heritage Farm is the perfect place to celebrate the fall season. Acres of golden beauties are ready for picking, photographing and enjoying!

Festival visitors will also enjoy music, crafts, hayrides, farm games and fantastic food choices.

October 4-5, 2014, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Gorman Heritage Farm 10052 Reading Road Cincinnati, OH 45241 www.gormanfarm.org Admission: Adults: $8, Kids (3-17) & Seniors (65+): $5

08

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

IN EVERY ISSUE

ONLINE

buzz // CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S

Tickets to Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR.

facebook & weekly e-newsletter contests

// FACEBOOK TALK WE ASKED:

My favorite free family activity in Cincy is..

Kings Island Tickets

YOU SAID:

Walking around Irons Fruit Farm - oh wait, it’s not really free because I buy 100 of their scrumptious apple cinnamon donuts! Haha – Shari B. Washington Park – Helen S. My local library! – Fran B. Walking along the river – Lisa W. Little Miami or the Loveland bike trail – Emily K. The library! Free programs all the time! – Carolyn M.

Disney on Ice: Princesses & Heroes Tickets

BBQ and Bluegrass (though I always end up buying the BBQ. Who can resist Eli’s!?) – Laura L. I love both the programs at the libraries and the Hamilton County Parks (which really isn’t free, if you count paying for a car permit)! – Jennifer K. “ L ike ” us on

F acebook to J oin the C on v e r sation

Over 14,150 fans and counting..

F I ND U S ON L I NE

FACEBOOK // cincinnatiparent.com TWITTER // @cincyparent

Sign up for your FREE Cincinnati Parent Weekly E-newsletter, featuring upcoming news, weekend events & exciting contests!

Go to CincinnatiParent.com today!

Cincinnati Cyclones Game Tickets 10

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

11

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

footnotes T houghts from the margins of a mom' s life // Crossing our T’s Kelly Blewett

Last month William and I were facing a stack of blank thank-you notes. We also had a list of birthday presents he’d received for his fourth birthday. It was go time.

About halfway through the pile, I turned to one of William’s favorite gifts, a new fire truck. “Okay William,” I said. “Let’s think about the truck you got from Z. What do you want to tell him you liked?”

12

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

“The siren and the ladder!” William responded, and I grinned triumphantly and scribbled away in the card. William said, “Let me see that card, I want to write, too!” I handed it over, expecting him to draw a circle. Instead, William wrote a giant T. I couldn’t figure out why.

Our friend’s name did not begin with T. T for truck? Maybe. But maybe not. The Ts were not limited to trucks, I found out as the note-writing went on. With each new card, William kept those Ts coming, carefully inscribing them on the lefthand side.

I attempted an intervention. “You know more letters than T, William!” I said. I suggested a W, for William. I suggested a B, for Blewett. I suggested various letters that would correspond to his friends’ names. These were the letters

that made sense to me. And then, in one of those rare moments that I wish happened more often, William explained himself. “You write that letter at the beginning so I write it, too.” I looked down at the note we were working on.

“Thanks for coming to my party,” it read.

Of course – thanks. T is for thanks.

It was one of those funny moments as a parent when you realize that your child is paying attention to the world, putting things together in their own way and really might make more sense than you think. In fact, they might make more sense than you. I felt like cheering. T is for thanks. And thank you, William, for reminding me of that.

COMMENTA RY & PA R E N T I N G

true confessions of a a stay-atof

home dad // The end of diaper bags, infant car seats and strollers Pete Gilbert

Parenting might not be getting any easier, but as kids grow, it definitely requires less stuff. I took my kids to the pediatrician the other day and it hit me. All I walked in with were my three children. I didn’t have a diaper bag. I wasn’t pushing a stroller. It was just me and the kids.

Gone are the days of packing a bottle (or two for epic errand running) of breast milk with an icepack into its mini cooler and stuffing it in the diaper bag next to a stack of diapers, wipes, a few burp cloths, a change of clothes, snacks, rash cream, bibs, a teething ring, bulb suction, mesh feeder, hand sanitizer, a handful of toys and a blanket.

I am no longer popping the trunk of my car with a baby in one arm trying to wrestle the stroller out and open it using two fingers with my other hand like some sort of magic trick – and then attempting to navigate it with a semi-flat tire and a broken snack tray. Those days are in my rearview mirror now.

Speaking of rearview mirrors, I see a much different car seat configuration than in years past. My oldest gets out of her seat by herself, same with my son and his booster. I simply have to unbuckle my toddler and that’s it. Just a couple of short years ago, I was trying to buckle two kids in and out of their five-point harnesses while holding a baby bucket seat and attempting not to trade car door paint with the vehicle next to mine.

It appears this particular season of parenting is now a thing of the past. On to the next challenges of parenthood!

Happy Parenting!

www.facebook.com/petetheblogger OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

13

pin t si z e d

Sarah Bricker-Hunt

pursuits Enrichment activities for the preschool crowd

i

f there’s one word that most accurately describes preschoolers, it’s “busy.” Not quite big kids, but beyond the wobbly toddler stage, preschoolers are constantly seeking new challenges and activities.

Cincinnati is home to a wide array of enrichment opportunities for this age

range. Read on for a closer look at a few of

these, and be sure to check out our Preschool Enrichment Guide as well!

The preschool age group covers a diverse range of abilities and interests.

Consider where your child is in terms of his or her independence when selecting an enrichment activity.

Happier on your lap Many preschoolers are just not ready for an independent or parent-child class yet, but don’t worry. These little observers have plenty of enrichment choices, too.

For instance, there are several excellent children’s theater productions around town, including the Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati. These professional productions include familiar favorites like Beauty and the Beast, Jr. For a high-energy performance, try a puppet show like the Wump Mucket Puppets troupe, which perform free shows throughout the year at local libraries and festivals.

If you’re looking for something even less formal, ask if you can observe a group music, gymnastics or art class. Your hesitant preschooler may feel more prepared for enrichment activities after watching from the sidelines at first.

Not quite ready to leave your side If your little one likes joining in on the action, but wants your company too, consider enrolling in a parent-child class.

Options like Mommy & Me movement and music classes set the stage for fun and parental bonding while giving your preschooler an introduction to a class setting with their peers. Parent-child music classes can be found at places like Pied Piper Academy of Music or through independently-led Kindermusik and Music Together classes all around town. Several local businesses offer preschool parentchild classes with various activity levels.

Check out activitytree.com for an extensive list.

PHOTO CREDIT (TOP) // KRISTAN MCINTOSH

14

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

Independent spirit When your preschooler has reached the point of being ready for an independent class while you catch a break (or work on that errand list), consider options like dance or gymnastics classes, where parents generally aren’t required to observe class. There are dozens of outstanding choices in the area – see our list for a few notable options. Be sure to clarify drop off and pick up rules with your child’s instructor before signing up for a session.

Nature kids Some kids just need to be outside – so find an activity that nurtures their wild side. Cincinnati has several nature-focused organizations that provide preschool programs throughout the year.

The Cincinnati Nature Center offers affordable, occasional programs (usually monthly) for the preschool set, including a series of upcoming fall Saturday classes and many activities in the Center’s nature playscape. The Cincinnati Parks department offers special parent-child nature interactions at local parks throughout the year as well.

Uniquely Cincy There are several local preschool enrichment opportunities you simply can’t find anywhere else. Take advantage of programs offered at uniquely Cincy places like the Cincinnati Children’s Museum. Here, kids can participate in rotating, free-with-admission programs like the Sprouts Institute, a multi-faceted preschool program with several activity choices throughout the year.

The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County offers preschool story times at branch locations all over town as well as activities you might not equate with the library experience – music, movement, Lego Club and many others.

Check out programs at other Cincinnati (and Northern Kentucky) institutions such as the Behringer-Crawford museum in Covington, Kentucky and the Contemporary Arts Center downtown.

No matter which activity you and your preschooler choose, remember to relax and have fun. At this age, the very best enrichment activities are the ones your little one enjoys most.

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

15

PRESCHOOL ENRICHMENT GUIDE art museum & programs T H E A R T S PA R K

theartspark.com/classes (513) 936-8333

C i n c i n n at i B a l l et

cballet.org/academy (513) 621-5219

C INCINNATI DA NCE AC A DEM Y C i n c i n n at i A rt M u se u m

cincinnatiartmuseum.org (513) 721-ARTS

animals & nature programs C i n c i n n at i Nat u re C e n ter

cincynature.org (513) 831-1711

C i n c i n n at i Z o o & B o ta n ica l G ar d e n s

cincinnatizoo.org (513) 281-4700

movement & sports

cincinnatidanceacademy.com (513) 985-0111 C i n c i n n at i R ecreat io n Co mm i ss io n

cincinnati-oh.gov/recreation/ recreation-centers/

G y mb o ree P l ay & M u s ic

gymboreeclasses.com (513) 871-1900

H U B B A R D FA M ILY S WI M S C H OOL

hubbardswim.com/cincinnati (513) 530-0123

A n d ers o n Da n ce A ca d em y

M as o n Da n ce C e n ter

B ear Pa d d l e S w i m S ch o o l

P rem i er T u mb l i n g a n d Da n ce

andersondanceacademy.com (513) 474-7837

bearpaddle.com (513) 285-8855

16

masondance.com (513) 398-0353

premiertumblinganddance.com (513) 677-1240

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

T i pp i T o es Da n ce

tippitoesdance.com (513) 578-1280

Y M C A o f G reater C i n c i n n at i

myy.org (513) 362-YMCA

music & performance

K i n d erm u s i k b y C ath y S i ebert

kindermusikbycs.yourvirtuosos.com (513) 231-3973 L i tt l e S o n gb i r d M u s ic S t u d io

littlesongbirdmusic.com (859) 547-876

B a l d w i n M u s ic E d u cat io n

S ha l o m Fam i ly ’ s S e n s o r y S u n d ay s

T H E C H ILD R E N ’ S T H E AT R E O F C IN C INN AT I

West C hester A ca d em y o f M u s ic & Da n ce

baldwimmusiceducenter.com (513) 351-1109

thechildrenstheatre.com (513) 569-8080 F i tt o n C e n ter f o r C reat i v e A rts

fittoncenter.org (513) 863-8865

I n d i a n S pr i n gs A ca d em y o f M u s ic

indianspringsacademy.com (513) 779-7373

myshalomfamily.org (513) 722-7245

musiclessonsinwestchesterohio.com (513) 829-2345

various B l u e M a n atee C h i l d re n ’ s B o o k S t o re

bluemanateebooks.com (513) 731-2665 C reat i v e T o ts

creativetotsmason.wordpress.com/ enrichment (513) 770-6776

*for a more detailed description of all our listings, visit cincinnatiparent.com!

T he P u b l ic L i brar y o f C i n c i n n at i a n d H A m i lt o n Co u n t y

cincinnatilibrary.org (513) 369-6900 M a d S c i e n ce

cincinnati.madscience.org (513) 793-6784 M o u n t Wash i n gt o n E d u cat io n a l A rts C e n ter

mweduarts.com (513) 827-9144 Oz o P l ay C af ĂŠ

ozopolaycafe.com (513) 834.9459 S k i d a d d l es

skidaddles.com (859) 647-PLAY (Florence) (513) 204-3482 (Mason) T o tter ’ s Otter v i l l e

tottersotterville.com (859) 491-1441 W u mp M u cket P u ppets

wumpmucketpuppets.com (513) 370-9803

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

17

Fall Fun! From apples and pumpkins to ghosts and ghouls, this season has it all!

Steffy McCourt

“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.”

– L.M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

I

n Ohio, October lays itself down like a wellloved quilt, bringing friends and family closer together as the leaves and temperature drop.

Ditch the rake, grab a sweater and head to one of these fun fall activities before the month is over.

The apple orchard beckons this time of year, with the crisp fall air rivaling the first bite of a Jonagold – still warm from the sun. Indulge your senses with a trip to one of the Buckeye state’s many orchards. Take a hayride through Hollmeyer’s Orchard, right in Cincinnati since 1916, to pick apples and enjoy a cup of hot cider. Besides one amazing cup of cider, Hollmeyer’s is also known for the local honey produced from their very own orchard bees. This orchard also boasts local-free range eggs, perfect for whipping up apple muffins after your visit.

For a more grown-up version of fall fun, trek over to Cincinnati’s Vinoklet Winery to sample wines made from grapes grown and harvested right here in the Ohio River Valley. Vinoklet is situated on 30 acres of rolling hills and ponds and is the only working winery with a vineyard in the area. Visit on the weekend to tour the winery and then gather around a large grill to prepare your feast – paired with one of eight award-winning wines, of course!

Grab some lederhosen and make your way to Donauschwaben Oktoberfest, running from October 3-5.

This festival includes German music, dance group performances and a Trachten Parade.

Over twenty German and domestic beers

PHOTO CREDIT (LEFT) // LISA HEZLEP

18

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

and wines will be available to enjoy along with pit-roasted Bavarian pork and chicken, sausage and goulash dinners.

When it’s time to find the perfect pumpkin, head to Blooms and Berries Fall on the Farm Festival taking place the entire month of October. Visit the pumpkin patch on a hayride through the “I Spy” woods. With a children’s play area including a straw maze and giant slide, a cow train, a seven-acre corn maze and a terrific assortment of fall food favorites, your family will be hitting the metaphorical hay completely satiated after a visit here.

For a truly picturesque afternoon, visit The Sunflower Festival at Gorman’s Heritage Farm to pick your pumpkin for the porch and a bouquet of sunflowers for the table. Be sure to bring your camera to take photographs of your family as you stroll through acres of golden fields of sunflowers in full bloom while listening to live Bluegrass or Celtic music.

With parties, candy and costumes, what’s not to love about Halloween? Coney Island’s Fall-OWeen Festival is fun for all ages with highlights including the Living History Village, live entertainment and trick-or-treating. In addition, all of Coney’s Classic Rides are included with event admission.

At the Cincinnati Zoo, kids can trick-or-treat with the animals. Every weekend in October, the Zoo offers HallZOOween festivities from 12-5 pm free with zoo admission. Kids are encouraged to come in costume and trick-or-treat at the stations set up throughout the zoo, ride on the “scare-ousel” and take a Hogwarts Express Train ride. A magic show will take place at 1 pm and 3 pm. “Always hairy, never scary!”

– kids of all ages are sure to have fun!

And of course, the greatest show in October is right outside your front door. Visit one of Ohio’s incredible state parks for a hike or rent a canoe from Little Miami Canoe Rental and paddle down the scenic Little Miami River.

For more outdoor fun, the Cincinnati Nature Center (CNC) hosts several autumn-themed events at its various locations. The CNC’s Long Branch Farm location hosts a Full Moon Walk and Black Walnut Collecting, Cracking and Crafts during the month of October. Also, for two weeks only in October (11th-26th), the CNC will host its annual bird seed sale at The Nature Shop.

Your calendar is sure to fill up quickly with all of the fun, local adventures waiting for you this October!

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

19

Fall Fun GUIDE Brown ’ s Family Farm M arkets At Brown’s, we grow our own corn stalk bundles, Indian corn, squash, assorted gourds, beautiful mums, and of course, pumpkins in all shapes and sizes. Plus, don’t miss a full assortment of home grown apples, sweet cider, chewy caramel apples, Amish Fry Pies and bakery items and more! Every Saturday in October features “Fall Family Fun” activities, which includes a pick your own pumpkin patch, hayrides, a corn maze, straw maze, farm animals, picnic area, play area, and lots of photo opportunities! Mark your calendar for “Craft Fair On The Farm” on October 18th & 19th from 10am-5pm, and a “Dare To Care Zombie Fun Run” on October 25th from Noon-6pm.

Hours/Dates: Open 7 days a week through Halloween, with Fall Family Fun on Saturdays and Sundays from 9am-6pm 11620 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton, OH 45013, Phone: (513) 738-0404, http://brownsfarmmarket.com

BU R GE R FAR M P umpkin F estival Hayride, pony rides and farm petting zoo, carnival rides and games, puppet show, paintball shooting gallery, sand art, music, food and drink. Pick-yourown pumpkins, gourds, cornstalks, Indian corn and fall mums.

Hours/Dates: Every Sat & Sun from September 27th Through October 26th, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Admission Price: $2 7849 Main St., Newtown OH 45244, Phone: 513-561-8634, www.burgerfarms.com/

Coney I sland ’ s Fall- O -W een F estival All your fall favorites plus some Halloween fun make for one great family event! Enjoy Fright Lights musical light show, Trick or Treat Trail, Coney’s Classic Rides, musical entertainment, farmyard friends and more!

Hours/Dates: October 4-5, 11-12 & 18-19 from 3-9PM Admission Price: $11.00 6201 Kellogg Avenue, Cincinnati, Oh 45230, Phone: 513-232-8230, Fax: 513-231-1352, Email: info@coneyislandpark.com, www.coneyislandpark.com/

20

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

G orman H eritage Farm S unflower F estival

Halloween N ights at Parky ’ s Farm

The annual Sunflower Festival is a family friendly event on a historic working farm that includes sunflowers, hayrides, pumpkins, entertainment, food and pumpkin launching. Celebrate the harvest season at Gorman Heritage Farm conveniently located in Evendale.

Hours/Dates: Oct. 4 & 5, 2014 10 am to 4 pm Admission Price: $8 Adults/$5 Seniors & Children 10052 Reading Rd., Evendale, OH 45241, Contact: Christine Schuermann, Phone: 513-563-6663, Email: cschuermann@ gormanfarm.org, http://gormanfarm.org/

The only NON-SCARY NIGHTTIME Halloween party in town! Enjoy a hayride light show, ghostly mini golf, live music and lots of family-friendly entertainment.

Hours/Dates: Thursdays through Sundays, October 9-26th, 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Admission Price: $7/person; children 2 and under are free!

10073 Daly Rd, Cincinnati OH 45231; Phone: (513) 521-3276, www.greatparks.org

“ L ights U p N ight ” at Mt. H ealthy Haunted Hall Hall ZO Oween Always hairy, never scary! You and your family can enjoy: Trick-or-Treat Stations, Special Animal Encounters, Phil Dalton’s Theater of Illusion Show at 1pm & 3pm, Hogwarts Express Train Ride, Scare-ousel and more! Kids are encouraged to wear a costume during HallZOOween, but it is not required.

Hours/Dates: Every Sat & Sun, October 4th Through Oct. 26th; 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Admission Price: Free with Zoo admission; some additional charges apply 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220, Phone: (513)281-4700, www.cincinnatizoo.org

Haunted Duck Tours Take the most unique tour in the region with Haunted Ducks! Just in time for Halloween fun!

These popular, amphibious vehicles travel on land and on the Ohio River. Your tour guides will share local ghost stories and the lore of such famously haunted landmarks as Music Hall, the Taft Museum and the Thompson House along the way.

You’ll be armed with “Wacky Quackers” to scare away ghosts on the perfect Halloween tour for anyone with a taste for spooky fun.

Hours/Dates: Thurs, Fri & Sat, October 2 – November 1st, 6:00pm; 6:30pm & 7:30pm & 8:00pm Admission Price: Haunted Ducks tickets are $17 for all ages* http://newport.ridetheducks.com/specialoffers.aspx

Haunted Pirates of the Ohio Cruise Come join a Halloween twist of our Pirates of the Ohio cruise this fall. Round up the children and enjoy this 1½ hour fall cruise on the Ohio River.

Party with our pirates by showing off your Halloween costume (costume not required), play some Halloween games, and receive your bounty of treats. If you enjoyed our Summer Pirates of the Ohio cruises, this cruise is definitely for you!

Hours/Dates: Sat, October 11th, 2014 from 3:00 to 4:30pm & Sat, October 25th 2014 from 3:00 to 4:30pm Admission Price: Adults: $20.00, Children: $16.00 101 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071, Phone: 859-261-8500, www.bbriverboats.com/

The children get to go trick or treating through the (much less scary) Haunted Hall as well as getting a trip through our giant vortex tunnel!

Hours/Dates: October 26th, 6pm to 6:45pm Admission Price: $5 per child, adults free 7700 Seward Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45231, Phone: 513-729-1974, Email: hauntedhallmatt@hotmail. com, www.hauntedhallinfo.com

P umpkin Patch Tour Hands-on animal fun: milk a goat, hold chicks, brush a horse, feed the sheep and pet many different farm animals. Hayride to pumpkin patch to purchase pumpkins. Free apple cider and cookies on weekends at farm store.

Hours/Dates: Daily from October 1-31 Admission Price: $10 two-hour tour, $8 one-hour tour Sunrock Farm, 103 Gibson Lane, Wilder, KY 41076, Phone: 859-781-5502, www.sunrockfarm.org

P umpkins , Jack- o’-lanterns , G ourds & S q uash!

What a family! Pumpkins, gourds and squash are all part of the same family, yet they look so different. Find out about how they grow, and learn how we use them for food, utensils, bird houses and even musical instruments.

Hours/Dates: Daily, October 21 Through 26 Admission Price: $4/child, $5/adult, payable at the door Glenwood Gardens, 10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati OH 45215, Phone: (513)521-7275, www.greatparks.org

Lost R iver C ave Adventure awaits at Kentucky’s only Underground Boat Tour. Daylight disappears from view as you glide under the wishing rock into beautiful cathedral-sized caverns.

Memories are made when you spend a day or weekend in Kentucky’s famous Cave Country. Lost River Cave is perfect for young and old, friends and family.

Hours/Dates: 9 am/5 pm 7 days each week Admission Price: $16.95/adults $11.95/youth $4.95/child 2818 Nashville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42101, Phone: 270-393-0077, Email: info@lostrivercave.com, www.lostrivercave.com

Zombie Tag at L azer K raze At Lazer Kraze in Erlanger and Mason, laser tag missions will alternate between standard Lazer Tag and Zombie Tag during Late Night Laser. Keep your eyes open; the zombies must be stopped! Recommended for ages 12 and up or those ready for some gory zombies. No registration is required. Reservations are recommended to ensure availability.

Erlanger Hours/Dates: Each Friday, October 24th-31st at 9:00 PM Mason Hours/Dates: Each Saturday, October 18th-25th; 8-11:00 PM Admission Price: $15 at Erlanger; $8-$18 at Mason

Erlanger: 1335 Donaldson Hwy, Erlanger, KY 41018, Phone: 859-371-KRAZ; Mason: 7082 Columbia Rd, Maineville, OH 45039, Phone: 513-339-1030, www.LazerKraze.com

FOR MORE OCTOBER FUN, turn to our calendar on page 42 or visit cincinnatiparent.com!

Northgate M all- O -W een!

Keep your ghouls and boys warm and dry this Halloween for some FREE FAMILY FUN! We’ll be providing SPOOKtacular entertainment, including FREE indoor trick-or-treating and a FREE $250 costume contest! PLUS, 94.9 will be at the mall playing Halloween tunes! Your family will have a scary good time, rain or shine!

Hours/Dates: October 31st from 4-7pm Admission Price: FREE 9501 Colerain Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45251, Phone: 513-385-5600, Email: gisadore@mynorthgatemall. com, www.mynorth gatemall.com

S tation R oad Farm Come play on our huge barnyard playground, feed the chickens, & take a hayride to patch to pick a pumpkin.

We also have all your fall needs at our farm market: cider,apples, straw, corn stalks, gourds, squash and more.

Also private groups, parties & field trips can be scheduled!

Hours/Dates: Farm Hours: Mon-Fri 9-6 pm., Sat 9-5 pm., Sun 12-5pm. Hayrides weekends Sat 12-4pm & Sun 1-4pm. Scheduled hayrides available throughout the week.

Admission Price: $3; hayrides, small pumpkins, barnyard playground also available, plus feed the chickens!

6749 Station Road, West Chester, OH 45069, Contact: Linda Binder, owner, Phone: 513-777-3650, Fax: 513-777-3692, Email: stationrd.farm@yahoo.com, www.stationroadfarm.com

S t. R ita Haunted House Cincinnati’s oldest haunt still shines, darkly, that includes creative, handmade props, Dracula, the Wolfman and a zombie horde. This is an all-volunteer acting team providing mild scares for the young and young at heart.

Group rate discounts and boy/girl scout discounts available.

1720 Glendale-Milford Road, Cincinnati, OH 45215, Phone: 513-771-1060, www.srsdeaf.org/ HauntedHouse.aspx Admission Price: $10, free parking; $2 admission for children’s matinee Hours/Dates: October 2nd - November 1st at 7pm, Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, & Sunday; Children’s Matinee: (kids under 12) on October 25th & 26th from 3-5pm (lights on, masks off, children can go room to room and trick or treat)

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

21

breast test

Breakdown

Michelle Shirk

A guide to breast cancer screening and early detection

A

s a woman, it’s tough not to get nervous at the thought of someday receiving a breast cancer diagnosis. Fortunately, those who face this disease often survive and thrive, particularly when the cancer is caught early. According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, there are currently more than 2.8 million breast cancer survivors living in the United States alone!

We talked to Cincinnati area doctors about some of the screening options available to women today. Read on to learn about five of the most popular tools for early detection of breast cancer.

B RE A ST SEL F EX A M What is it? As the name implies, a breast self-exam is an examination a woman or man performs independently, says Hilary Shapiro-Wright, DO, FACOS, Mercy Health physician and breast surgeon. A thorough self-exam includes the whole breast and underarm area.

Who should consider it? Women should perform monthly self-exams beginning in their late teens or early 20s.

What else should women know? Need help remembering to do your monthly self-exam? Dr. Shapiro-Wright recommends choosing a specific day, such as your birthday, and doing each month’s self-exam on that date.

CLI N ICA L B RE A ST EX A M What is it? A clinical breast exam is an examination performed in a medical setting, by a medical specialist.

Who should consider it? Most women old enough to see an OB/GYN should have a clinical breast exam during each annual visit. For women with a family history of breast cancer, Dr. ShapiroWright recommends starting clinical breast exams ten years earlier than the age their relative had cancer. Finally, patients with a high risker of breast cancer should have exams performed twice a year by a breast specialist.

What else should women know? Dr. Shapiro-Wright describes clinical breast examination as “a simple, non-invasive screening tool that can provide early detection of breast cancer.”

GE N ETIC TESTI N G FO R B RCA1 A N D B RCA 2 M UTATI O N S What is it? A test is run using the patient’s blood or saliva to determine whether she has certain genetic mutations in the breast cancer 1 or breast cancer 2 gene that predisposes her to breast cancer, says Dr. Shapiro-Wright. A positive test result means a substantially increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

Who should consider it? Genetic testing should be considered by individuals in a variety of high risk groups including women younger than 45-50 years old who have been diagnosed with

22

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

breast cancer, women with a concerning family history and men who have breast cancer.

What else should women know? Dr. Shapiro-Wright recommends any woman planning to undergo genetic testing see a counselor. “I believe that counseling is just as important as the test,” she says.

M A M M O GR A M What is it? A digital mammogram machine compresses each breast into two different positions, says Dr. Susan Weinberg, Founder and Co-Medical Director of the Mary Jo Cropper Family Center for Breast Care. A camera records x-ray pictures of the breasts, which are captured by a computer. These pictures can then be manipulated “to increase the radiologist’s ability to detect subtle abnormalities,” says Dr. Weinberg.

What else should women know?

While this test is a powerful tool, it isn’t perfect. Dr. Farrar notes that the false positive rate for MRI is “quite high,” and the test is expensive.

Not sure where to start after reading about so many options?

Your doctor can help you assess your risk and decide which screening tests are right for you. Celebrate National Breast Cancer Month by making an appointment today!

A dditional Sources Who should consider it? Most women should receive an initial screening mammogram at 40, then yearly mammograms afterward, says William Farrar, MD, Director of the Stefanie Spielman Comprehensive Breast Center at Ohio State’s James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute. However, patients with certain risk factors may need to begin screening earlier and/or use a combination of methods.

What else should women know?

Mammograms are readily available and affordable, meaning they can be used for wide scale screening. Although new technologies have been introduced, mammography remains the "gold standard for early detection of breast cancer," says Dr. Weinberg.

MRI What is it? During a screening MRI, the patient must lie on her stomach inside a specialized machine for about 30-45 minutes, says Dr. Farrar. The machine uses magnets to create a computerized image of the area being studied. “It’s not the most comfortable test in the world,” warns Dr. Farrar.

Who should consider it? Dr. Farrar believes any patient with a 20-25% or higher risk of breast cancer will benefit from annual screening MRIs. If you believe you may fall into this category, he recommends talking to your doctor about your options for early detection.

24

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

www.bcrfcure.org/breast-cancer-statistics-resources http://cancer.osu.edu www.e-mercy.com www.healthsourceofohio.com www.trihealth.com

Archbishop Moeller High School

15 2014-20 OOL H C S E T P RIVA

E S U O H OP EN GUIDE

9001 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati (513) 791-1680 www.moeller.org/admissions Open House Dates: Sunday, November 2, 2014 from 2-5pm

Bethany School 555 Albion Ave, Glendale (513) 771-7462 www.bethanyschool.org Tours available by appointment.

Chai Tots Early Childhood Center 7587 Central Parke Blvd., Mason (513) 234-0600 www.ChaiTots.com

Considering a private school for your student?

Our area has plenty to choose from! Find the right match by visiting an upcoming open house to get all your questions answered.

28

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

Call to schedule a tour.

Open House Dates: October 19, 2014 from 2-4pm and January 25, 2015 from 2-4pm

The Cincinnati Country Day School 6905 Given Rd, Cincinnati (513) 979-0220 www.countryday.net Discovery Days: November 5 & 12

Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy 11525 Snider Rd, Cincinnati (513) 247-0900 leanintoCHCA.org Open House Dates: November 8, 2014 Shadow Days: October 9 & 22; November 13, 18 & 19; December 4

Cornerstone Montessori School Children’s Meeting House Montessori School 927 O’Bannonville Rd, Loveland (513) 683-4757 www.cmhschool.com

2048 Alexandria Pk, Highland Heights (859) 491-9960 www.CornerstoneMontessori.us Open House Dates: Sunday, January 25, 2015 from 1–3pm

Country Hills Montessori Locations: Eastgate, Ft.Thomas, Harrison,Oakley, Springboro, and West Chester (513) 793-2808 www.chmschools.com Call to schedule a tour or visit website for open house dates.

Creative Tots, Mason 6408 Thornberry Ct, Mason (513) 770-6776 www.creativetotsmason.com Open House Dates: Family Open House Halloween Event: October 29th, 6-7:30pm Parent Open House: December 10th, 9-11:30am Parent Open House: January 14th, 12:30-2:30pm Family Open House Art Show: May 20th, 5-7:00pm

DePaul Cristo Rey High School 1133 Clifton Hills Ave, Cincinnati (513) 861-0900 www.discoverdepaul.org Open House Date: October 18th, 9:00am to Noon

Elder High School 3900 Vincent Ave, Cincinnati (513) 921-3744 www.elderhs.org Open House Dates: Sunday, October 26, 2014 from 1-4pm

Garden Montessori School 1318 Nagel Rd, Cincinnati (513) 474-4933 gardenmontessorischool.com Call to schedule your personal tour (available daily).

Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church Preschool 1345 Grace Avenue, Cincinnati (513) 979-8191 http://hydeparkpreschool.org Open House Dates: November 15, 2014, 10:00am to Noon

The Kinder Garden Schools Two Locations: 5900 West Chester Rd, Ste. C, West Chester and 10969 Reed Hartman Hwy, Blue Ash WC: (513) 874-3100 BA: (513) 791-4300 www.kindergardenschool.com Open House Dates: Thursdays, October 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

29

LaSalle High School 3091 North Bend Rd, Cincinnati (513) 741-2365 www.futurelancers.com Open House Dates: Sun., November 9th, 1-4pm

Liberty Bible Academy 4900 Old Irwin-Simpson Rd, Mason (513) 754-1234 www.libertybibleacademy.org Open House Dates: November 15, January 10, April 11 from 11:00am to 3:00pm

Mars Hill Academy 4230 Aero Dr, Mason (513) 770-3223 www.marshill.edu Open House Dates: November 11, 2014, January 19, 2015 & March 10, 2015 from 9-11am

Montessori Academy of Cincinnati 8293 Duke Blvd., Mason (513) 398-7773 www.montacademy.org Open House Dates: November 9, 2014 and January 25, 2015

Montessori Center Room 2505 Riverside Dr, Cincinnati (513) 321-3282 www.montessoricenterroom.com Open House Dates: Sunday, November 9, 12-2pm

Mother of Mercy High School 3036 Werk Rd, Cincinnati (513) 661-2740 www.motherofmercy.org Open House Dates: Sunday, November 2 from 1:00-4:00pm

The New School Montessori 3 Burton Woods Ln, Cincinnati (513) 281-7999 www.newschoolmontessori.com Open House Dates: October 19, January 25 and April 26 from 2:00-4:00pm

Rockwern Academy 8401 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati (513) 984-3770 www.rockwernacademy.org Open House Dates: Early Childhood Education Center (18 months+): Weds., November 12th at 8:30am Grades K-8: Thurs., December 11th at 7pm 30

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

The Seven Hills School Hillsdale Campus - 5400 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati Doherty Campus - 2726 Johnstone Place, Cincinnati (513) 728-2400 7hills.org Open House Dates: Upper & Middle School (Gr. 6-12), Hillsdale Campus: Sun, October 19, 12:30-2:30pm Informational Meetings: Lower Schools (Gr. PreK-5) Hillsdale Campus: Tues, October 28, 9-11am; Doherty Campus: Weds, October 29, 9-11am

Springer School and Center 2121 Madison Rd, Cincinnati (513) 871-6080 ext. 211 www.Springer-LD.org Open House Dates: October 15, 2014 & January 28, 2015 from 9:00 to 10:30 am

The Summit Country Day School 2161 Grandin Rd, Cincinnati (513) 871-4700 www.summitcds.org Open House Dates: See website for a full list of events.

St. Ursula Academy 1339 E McMillan St, Cincinnati (513) 961-3410 www.saintursula.org Open House Dates: Sunday, October 26, 2014 from 1:00 to 3:30pm Showcase Nights: October 16, November 12, December 9 and January 8 from 6:30 to 8:30pm

St. Ursula Villa 3660 Vineyard Pl, Cincinnati (513) 871-7218 x 2101 www.stursulavilla.org Informational Coffees: November 10, 8:3010:00 am (Traditional Kindergarten - Junior High) November 12, 8:30 - 10:00 am (Traditional Preschool for 2-, 3-, & 4-year-olds, Montessori options for 3-, 4-, & 5-year-olds) February 1, 2015 12:00-2:00 pm (All grades & programs) Cancellation date: Sunday, Feb. 8, 2015

St. Vincent Ferrer School 7754 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati (513) 791-6320 svf-school.org Open House Dates: Sunday, January 25, 2015, 1:00-2:30pm

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

31

CHI LD R E N ’S H E A LT H

When Children Witness Domestic Violence // Recognizing the pervasive effects on kids Sarah Painer, MSW, LISW-S, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness month – and an unfortunate reality is that 80-90 percent of children living in homes with domestic violence are aware of it. In fact, 3.3 million children in the United States each year are exposed to violence against their mothers (or female caretakers) by a family member.

Domestic violence can take many forms, from verbal and emotional abuse to physical violence. Families under stress produce children under stress and exposure to violence in the home can traumatize a child. Children who hear and see violence in their home suffer physically and emotionally and are at greater risk for being abused and/or neglected.

Perpetrators of violence can deprive children of care-taking from their parent.

Many battered women suffer from depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, substance abuse and other conditions that can affect their ability to parent.

Perpetrators can also undermine the

mother’s authority and interfere with mother/child attachment. Because of the constant criticism mothers often endure from a perpetrator, they may become timid or indecisive when it comes to parenting. Children living in a violent home may learn to share the perpetrator’s view of their mother, which can lead to kids treating their mothers with disdain and idolizing the perpetrator. Sadly, children may respond to their mother with learned emotional and physical abuse – with this effect occurring most commonly in boys.

Behavioral problems: Acting out, withdrawal, aggressive behavior, passive behavior, school refusal, care-taking of parent, lying, attention seeking behaviors, out of control behavior, bedwetting, nightmares, manipulation, decreased intellectual competency

Children living in violent homes are more likely to develop emotional, social, behavioral and physical problems. The following symptoms are most severe if the children are young, do not have a reliable caretaker, they feel hopeless and if the exposure to family violence is long, severe and pervasive:

In addition to these problems, children can also receive flawed messages about the nature of male/female relationships.

By witnessing males being in control and females placed in a position of submission, kids can believe that perpetrators are not responsible for the violence they inflict and that victims are to blame. It may also lead children to believe that women are inferior, weak, stupid or crazy. When the violence continues without consequence, kids see that perpetrators are not held accountable and may learn that violence is justified or can be used as a way to resolve conflicts or that anger causes violence. Ultimately this could lead children to a faulty belief that love and violence are intertwined.

Emotional problems: Low self-esteem, grief , shame, guilt, self-blame, confusing/conflicting feelings, fear of abandonment, anger, depression, feelings of helplessness, embarrassment and feelings of powerlessness Social problems: Dysfunctional relationships, difficulty with trust, poor problem solving skills, isolation, passivity with peers, bullying, engagement in exploitative relationships

32

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

Physical problems: Somatic complaints (i.e. headaches, stomachs), frequent illness, nervousness, anxiety, short attention span, tiredness and lethargy, poor hygiene, regression, high risk play, self-abuse

What children need In order to develop healthy relationships, kids must have: • Trust with safe adults • Emotional and physical security • Adults who will listen to, believe in and shelter them

• A sense of normalcy and routine • Support services to meet their needs (i.e. safe places, counseling) • An understanding that family violence is wrong • Non-violent ways to resolve conflicts • Adults to speak out against family violence

Safety planning for adults If a parent is deciding to leave a violent home situation, here are some points to consider: • Determine how and when it is safe to leave.

Where will you go? Who will you tell?

• Identify your support people. This could include family, friends, the police and community resources.

• Call police if there is domestic violence and teach children how to call police or family friends.

• Consider your escape routes.

• Remove weapons (if possible).

• Gather important documents in advance such as birth certificates, social security cards, bank information, insurance cards and medications.

• Obtain an order of protection.

• Change locks on doors and windows or install a security system.

• Talk with your child’s school and/or

childcare providers about who is allowed to pick them up.

• Contact a lawyer.

Remember everyone deserves to live in a home free from violence and abuse. If you are experiencing domestic violence, please reach out for help. The following resources can provide further information and support to help you in the process.

[ Resources ] YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter: 513-872-9259 Women Helping Women: 513-381-5610 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) www.thehotline.org

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

33

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

Ask the Teacher

// Correcting a teacher, reasonable bedtimes, feeling unliked by a teacher Deb Krupowicz

Q:

My daughter came home in tears because of a graded paper that had been returned to her with something marked wrong that actually appears correct. I can understand how disappointed she is, but I don’t know what to do about it. Is it out of line to call the teacher about her mistake?

A:

Look over the entire assignment with your daughter to be sure that she understands the concepts covered – paying close attention to those that were correct and to the one that was marked wrong. Verify that your daughter followed directions, spelled answers correctly and followed any other instructions that were required. If you agree that the answer she provided was correct, explain that the teacher may have made a mistake. By calmly discussing with her that everyone makes a mistake from time to time, you will be modeling the attitude that you want your daughter to use when she talks to her teacher about the situation.

Talk over together what your daughter could say to her teacher about the answer she marked wrong. Help her understand that how she phrases her comments can either be interpreted positively or negatively. Role play to help your daughter feel confident about the discussion. Emphasize the importance of using a respectful tone of voice.

Learning to approach her teacher in a way that is appropriate and respectful is a stepping stone to the important life skill of self-advocacy.

34

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

Q:

Q:

What is a reasonable bed time for a second grader?

My daughter whines every night that no one her age goes to bed as early as she does.

My fifth grade son is convinced that his teacher does not like him. What should I do to help him understand that this isn’t true?

A:

First, talk with your son about exactly what the teacher has said or done that makes him think she doesn’t like him. If your son cannot think of anything specific, then a conver-sation may be in order about how we cannot assume how others feel about things. Suggest that he make a list of ways the teacher shows that she does like him. Helping your son to focus on these positive actions may help him change his perception of how she feels about him.

Your daughter’s conclusion that no one else has the same bed time as her may actually be based on the comments of one other child! However, even if every other child does not go to bed as early as she does, the hour that your daughter turns in may still be the best time for her.

Choose a bed time based on the time your daughter needs to wake up and the amount of sleep she requires to be at her best. Most health care professionals recommend that children your daughter’s age get about ten hours of sleep; others suggest twelve hours is more appropriate.

Based on your daughter’s needs, determine how many hours of rest she requires. Show her how her bedtime is a logical conclusion based upon how much sleep she needs and when she must get up in the morning.

Help your daughter understand that you will make decisions based on what is in her best interest rather than on what other people are doing. This is a great opportunity for explaining that others’ opinions and practices may differ from yours simply due to the differences between families.

Should your daughter’s bed time whining continue, a consequence for the whining is necessary. Make the point that whining is a behavior of a tired child, and that she will need to go to bed fifteen minutes earlier any time that she whines about bed time so that she is rested enough to stay pleasant all evening.

A:

Perhaps your son’s teacher does not like behavioral choices that your son has made. If he has been disciplined by the teacher, he may misinterpret her disapproval of his actions as dislike of him personally. Making that distinction is very difficult. Draw a parallel between the way that you feel about him when he misbehaves and the way his teacher does. A teacher’s care and concern for her students does not stop because a child is not perfect any more than a parent’s love does. A loving parent must discipline a child for poor behavior, and so must a caring teacher.

// Ask the Teacher is written by Deb Krupowicz, a mother of four and current teacher. Deb holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and has over twenty years of experience teaching preschool, elementary and middle school students. Please send your questions to her at asktheteacher@cincinnatiparent.com.

preschool &

education GUIDE

T he W illow T ree House Daycare & P reschool Offering both traditional & Montessori curriculum, The Willow Tree House has professionally qualified teachers providing a caring and nurturing environment (utilizing a constructivist based curriculum, meaning that children are not idle beings who learn through passive observation.)

2651 Highland Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45219, Contact: Jean Walker, Phone: 513-281-8733, Email: willowtreehouse@aol.com, http://the willowtreehouse.com, Grades: Serving ages 6 weeks to 5 years in our Preschool Program.

CHILDCaRE // PRESCHOOL

P leasant R idge Presbyterian N ursery S chool

Chai Tots E arly Childhood Center

3-Star Award Winner! Professionally qualified teachers provide active, expressive, child-centered learning experiences at this 3-star award-winning program. Choose 2, 3, 4, or 5 day AM or PM sessions. Excellent ratios, degreed teachers and spacious, sunny, classrooms await your preschooler. Parent and child classes also available for babies and toddlers.

5950 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45213, Phone: (513)631-0170, www.prpc.org/ nurseryschool.php, Grades: 2 1/2 - 5 years, Parent/Child classes birth to 32 months, Enrollment: 65

YM C A of Greater C incinnati

P rimrose S chool of S ymmes

MONTESSORI

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

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

Creative Tots , M ason Creative Tots has specialized in the private education of Toddler, Preschool and Pre-K children for 20+ years. Our holistic approach allows children the opportunity to learn, explore, play and grow while engaging in the fine arts and Montessori activities.

Our modernized curriculum is rich in opportunities to use creativity, solve problems, use language, develop new vocabulary and reading skills, while engaging in intellectual activities. Enrichment Programs: Spanish, Music, Art, Yoga and Science.

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

T he K inder G arden S chools Together with interaction of child, staff and family, we develop the complete child. In our Kinder Garden, we provide formative encouragement and knowledge with hands-on staff taking a personal interest in family and holistic education decisions for the child. Kinder Garden School is devoted to growing a child’s wish to flourish and learn by cultivating curiosity and problem-solving proficiency in a full supportive, fertile, fun setting.

ENLIGHTENMENT IS OUR MISSION. Blue Ash Location: 10969 Reed Hartman Highway, Blue Ash, OH 45242, Phone: 791-4300; West Chester Location: 5900 West Chester Road, West Chester, OH 45069, Phone: 874-3100, www.KinderGardenSchool. com, Grades: 6 weeks through kindergarten

As the Leader in Educational Childcare, Primrose Schools has been successfully meeting parents needs through its Accredited Balanced Learning Curriculum enabling each child to thrive and grow through learning,play,self-esteem,and character development. Programs include, infants, toddlers, early preschool, preschool, private pre-kindergarten, private kindergarten and afterschool programing.

CITA/NCS Accredited.

9175 Governors Way, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Susan Mattick, Phone: 513-697-6970, Fax: 513-697-7021, www.primrosesymmes. com/, Grades: 6 weeks to 5 years in our child care programs and up to 12 in our afterschool program, Enrollment: Up to 85

Redeemer P reschool Redeemer Preschool offers a part-day preschool experience for children in a Christian setting. Toddlers through pre-kindergarten classes are available. Special activities include Spanish, Music and Chapel.

2944 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: (513)533-5980, Email: rpsdirector@fuse.net, redeemer-cincy.org, Grades: 2 1/2 - 5 years, Enrollment: 90

S hine N urture Center Shine Nurture Center, nestled into a cove of Mt. Airy Forest, provides a healthy space for the nourishment and growth of young children. Shine’s core values include promoting holistic wellness, fostering a connection with nature, providing developmentally appropriate care, and allowing for character discovery.

5100 Colerain Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45223, Contact: Katie McGoron, Phone: 513-541-0400, Email: kmcgoron@mykolab.ch, shinechildcare.org, Grades: 6 weeks - 5 years, Enrollment: Opens Nov. 3, 2014: Open Enrollment.

The YMCA of Greater Cincinnati offers state licensed before and after school care at over 85 locations throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

1105 Elm Street, Cincinnnati, OH 45202, Contact: Trish Kitchell, VP Youth Development, Phone: 513-362-YMCA, Fax: 513-651-3540, Email: tkitchell@MyY.org, www.MyY.org, Grades: Ages 3-12, Enrollment: Stop by any YMCA of Greater Cincinnati location or check with your local school district.

Central M ontessori 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: 513-7425800, Fax: 513-742-5870, Email: info@ centralmontessoriacademy.com, www.

CentralMontessoriAcademy.com, Grades: Preschool- Grade 6, Enrollment: 100

Children ’ s Meeting House Montessori S chool An authentic Montessori school program resting on 6.5 acres. Extraordinary and rigorous hands-on learning inside and outside of the classrooms creating life long learners, critical thinkers and passionate leaders.

927 O’Bannonville Road, Loveland, OH 45140, Contact: Meg Thomas, Head of School, Phone: 513-683-4757, Email: thomas@cmhschool. com, www.cmhschool.com, Grades: Preschool through Sixth grade, Enrollment: 160

Cornerstone M ontessori S chool For over twenty years, Cornerstone Montessori School has been providing students in the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area with a stimulating, hands-on working environment, where the love of learning is fostered and encouraged by our certified and caring Montessori teachers. Visit our wonderful school and you will find engaging learning environments filled with diligently working children. Our small, private school allows us to maintain outstanding student to teacher

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

35

ratios and for our students to be taught, and to learn, at their own pace. We are conveniently located off I-471 near downtown Cincinnati and I-275. To schedule a tour, please call us at: 859-491-9960. The Joy of Learning is Our Cornerstone.

2048 Alexandria Pike, Highland Heights, KY 41076, Contact: Michelle Earle, Phone: 859-491-9960, Email: office@cornerstone montessori.us, www.cornerstonemontessori. us, Grades: Preschool - 8th grade

Association of Christian Schools and offers the option of the Ed Choice Scholarship through the Ohio Department of Education.

1810 Young Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Contact: William Marshall, Principal, Phone: 513-763-6655, Fax: 513-763-6643, Email: academy@gbs.edu, aldersgatechristian academy.webs.com, Grades: K - 12, Enrollment: 140

Bethany S chool Country H ills Montessori Providing programs for 3 to K. Small, individualized classes with low student-teacher ratios, under the guidance of Montessori certified teachers, in an inter-generational environment.

Multiple Locations in Eastgate, Oakley, Harrison and West Chester Ohio and in Ft. Thomas KY. Visit chmschools.com for all location addresses & phones.

Contact: Susan Schreiber, Owner, Email: susan@chmschools.com, www.chmschools. com/, Grades: 3 - K

L ittle S prouts M ontessori P reschool & K indergarten 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, capping classes at ten students.

7131 Plainfield Road, Deer Park, OH 45236, Contact: Christie Sawyer, Phone: 513-6979021, 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.

T he N ew S chool Montessori Centrally located, the historic Mitchell mansion provides the backdrop for a holistic education.

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 and part-time AMS and ISACS accredited programs with healthy lunches included in tuition.

Open Houses Oct 19, Jan 25 and April 26 from 2-4 p.m.

3 Burton Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229, Contact: Jeff Groh, Phone: (513)281-7999, Fax: (513)281-7996, Email: jeff.g@newschool montessori.com, www.newschool montessori.com, Grades: 3-year-olds through Grade 6, Enrollment: 125

NON–PUBLIC Aldersgate Christian Academy Aldersgate Christian Academy offers families in the Greater Cincinnati area a faith-based education with strong academics and an emphasis on music.

ACA is a member school of the American

36

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

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

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

C I NC I NNAT I H I LL S CH R I S T I A N AC ADE MY CHCA’s college-prep curriculum sparks creativity and fuels mastery. CHCA’s culture of vigorous inquiry and persistent effort develops agile, innovative thinkers. As they wrestle with timeless, essential questions, students strengthen their minds and their faith. Where others may pull back, CHCA students lean into life.

11525 Snider Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Natalie Pfister, Enrollment Director, Phone: (513)247-0900, Email: admissions@ chca-oh.org, leanintoCHCA.org, Grades: Preschool 3 - Grade 12, Enrollment: 1500

De Paul Cristo Rey H igh S chool DePaul Cristo Rey is the Catholic, college-prep high school for families who can’t afford other private high schools. Through our Corporate Work Study Program students work one day a week in professional settings earning part of their education costs. Find out more at our Open House October 18, 9:00 a.m.-noon.

1133 Clifton Hills Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45220, Contact: Yasmeen Khan, Admissions Coordinator, Phone: 513-861-0600, Fax: 513-861-0900, Email: yasmeen.khan@ depaulcristorey.org, www.discoverdepaul. org, Grades: Grades 9-12, Enrollment: 260

M other of Mercy H igh S chool Mother of Mercy provides quality educational programs in a Christian community which promote life-long learning and strong, clear Mercy values: Faith, Compassion, Service, Leadership and Excellence. Join us at our Open House Sunday, November 2 from 1 - 4 p.m. to learn more about the outstanding programs Mercy has to offer!

3036 Werk Road, Cincinnati, OH 45211, Contact: Cara Hyland, Director of Admissions, Phone: (513) 661-2740, Fax: (513) 661-1842, Email: hyland_c@motherofmercy.org, www.motherofmercy.org, Grades: 9 - 12, Enrollment: About 500 students.

R ockwern Academy Rockwern Academy is a premiere Jewish day school focused on academic excellence since 1952.

Rockwern Academy, formerly known as Yavneh Day School, is a community of learners where students, families and teachers join together to ensure that every individual child is free to rise to challenges and soar, academically and personally.

Rockwern Academy has created a culture of excellence, reflected by our teachers, programs, curriculum and our commitment to fostering a love of Jewish life and learning.

8401 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, OH 45236, Phone: 513-984-3770, Email: info@ rockwernacademy.org, www.rockwern academy.org, Grades: 18 months - 8th Grade, Enrollment: 210

T he S even H ills S chool An award-winning Independent, non-sectarian and co-educational school serving students two years through grade 12 on two campuses. An intellectually vibrant environment encourages personal attention and the average class size is 15.

Educating the whole child with a college-prep, 21st century curriculum. Informational Coffees in December and January.

Hillsdale Campus - 5400 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati; Doherty Campus - 2726 Johnstone Place, Cincinnati, Phone: 513-728-2400, www.7hills.org, Grades: Pre-K through 12

S t. U rsula Academy St. Ursula Academy is a top high school choice for students from more than 90 grade schools across Greater Cincinnati! A St. Ursula education develops the whole person and helps each student develop her own unique gifts and talents. St. Ursula nurtures each young woman to become a confident leader who is ready to achieve her own goals and dreams. Students develop great friendships, work with talented teachers, and pursue their personal interests in the more than 40 clubs, student service organizations and 12 athletic programs. St. Ursula is committed to educating its students to become women of faith, integrity and courage committed to building a better world.

1339 East McMillan, Cincinnati, OH 45206, Contact: Michelle Dellecave: Director of Admissions, Phone: (513) 961-3410 ext. 183, Email: admissions@saintursula.org, www. saintursula.org, Grades: Girls grades 9-12, Enrollment: 665

S t. U rsula V illa An extraordinary family atmosphere and Christcentered spirit of St. Angela Merici cultivates independent learners who achieve their potential through small classes, individualized instruction, and nurturing of the whole child. Program offerings begin with Toddler/2-year-old and Traditional or Montessori preschool continuing through Junior High, recognized for outstanding high school preparation.

3660 Vineyard Place, Cincinnati, OH 45226, Contact: Marta Runnels, Phone: 513-871-7216 x 2101, Fax: 513-871-0315, Email: m.runnels@ stursulavilla.org, www.stursulavilla.org, Grades: 2-years-old through 8th grade, Enrollment: 465

SPECIaL NEEDS

L angsford Learning Acceleration Centers

S pringer S chool and Center

Is your child on track to be a successful reader? For over 14 years, Langsford has been applying an evidence-based approach to reading difficulties to turn struggling readers into confident and successful ones. Langsford’s approach is to identify the root cause of the reading difficulties and then to implement research-validated approaches to develop confident independent learners. Langsford offers support for reading, comprehension, and writing.

Langsford is also an approved Jon Peterson provider; contact us to see if your child qualifies for a scholarship from the Ohio Department of Education.

Blue Ash Location: 9402 Towne Square Ave. Ste B, Cincinnati, OH 45242, West Chester Location: 7616 Cox Lane, West Chester, Oh 45069, Contact: Jeff Graham, Executive Director, Phone: 513-531-7400, www.

WeTeachReading.com, Grades: All ages

For more than 40 years, Springer School and Center has empowered students with learning disabilities to lead successful lives. Springer offers a day school for students ages 6-14 and outreach programs and learning disability resources for students, parents and teachers in the Greater Cincinnati area. The Springer Experience. Success Changes Everything.

2121 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: Carmen Mendoza, Admissions Director, Phone: 513 871-6080 ext. 211, Fax: 513 871-6428, Email: cmendoza@springer-LD. org, www.springer-LD.org, Grades: 1 through 8, Enrollment: 200

TUTORING E instein By Design Einstein by Design is a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) Enrichment program. We adhere to The Maker Model Philosophy and believe learning best occurs when youth are allowed to Tinker, Innovate, Make, and Explore.

3950 Joseph Campau Street, Detroit, MI 48207, Phone: 1-800-905-7386, Email: info@ einsteinbydesign.com, www.einstein bydesign.com, Grades: Pre-K to 8th, Enrollment occurs on online!

BE PART OF OUR MONTHLY EDUCATION GUIDE CON TAC T K AT I E @C I NC I NNAT I PARE N T.COM

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

37

Stepping into

STEP-PARENTING

Suggestions for navigating this new territory Megan Noel

t

he step-parent/stepchild relationship can be a delicate one. If you’re new to this role, it can seem like every day brings unexpected challenges. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you find your place in this new family dynamic.

Handling difficult emotions “New step-parents can sometimes feel left out and jealous of the close relationships between their stepchildren and the children’s biological parents, especially ex-spouses,” says

Dr. Aubrey Coates, clinical psychologist at Linder Center of HOPE and Assistant Professor at University of Cincinnati.

“It’s important to manage those feelings and to remain encouraging to their step-children’s relationships with their parents.”

Easing the tr ansition If children are moving between two different households, with new stepparents (and possibly new stepsiblings), they can feel as if their worlds are being turned upside down. Early on in the process, try to maintain established routines in as many areas of the children’s lives as possible. Be sensitive to how any changes that must be made will be received.

Forming a rel ationship “The best advice is to take things slow and don’t expect too much from your new step-children. It can take years for these relationships to grow,” says Coates. “Communicate with your new spouse and be supportive of your step-children. Invite your step-children to do fun things with you. As time passes, you will build shared experiences and memories. These positive experiences will be the foundation for your relationship with the child.”

PHOTO CREDIT // LINDSAY KONDURIS

38

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

Dealing with negative behavior Children react to change in a variety of ways – and they are not always pleasant.

Remember that a child who is sullen, rebellious, disrespectful, etc. is going through a major change – and his current attitude may not be permanent. Make sure that kids are getting enough alone time with their biological parents. And when spending time with your new step-child, listen to their interests and find ways to share in them.

Talking without judgment Be very careful about how you discuss your step-child’s other biological parent.

Even if that relationship was difficult, a child can still feel allegiance to him or her.

If your spouse has negative comments to make about the other parent, resist jumping in. Your new step- child needs to see that you won’t partake in an “us” versus “them” situation.

Many step-parents will agree that forging a relationship with new step-children can be very difficult (see comments from our readers) but the benefits can be great as well. “Step-parenting can be an extremely rewarding experience,” says Coates. “You can become a role model, a mentor and a supporter of your stepchildren. If you allow the relationship to grow into what your step-child needs, you can have a unique and special relationship with the child,” As a new step-parent, you have the opportunity to play an important role in the life of a child undergoing a significant life-changing event. With patience, understanding and perseverance, the process can lead to a meaningful relationship for everyone.

We asked CINCINNATI PARENT Facebook readers who were step-parents for their advice to those new to the role. Here’s what they had to say: If all parents involved aren’t on the same team it doesn’t work for anyone...I respect their mother…we all talk things out... everyone has a part in combining families... there are no sides because everyone is after the same goal… maybe it’s just us that works this way… but it works.

– Amanda G.

There is no halfway! You can’t have all of your spouse without taking the child in your heart as you would your blood related child! Even if the child is very difficult you must put the same amount of effort as you would if the child was yours because he is now and needs to know you love him! This is how my hubby and I make it work!

– Christina J.

Never talk down about the bio parents.

Never push the children into calling you anything but your given name. Love them and treat them like you have given birth to them. – Becky S.

Don’t try to take the spot of the parent in their life. Develop your own spot in their life. – Diane S.

I’m a child with 2 step parents.... best advice is: don’t try to replace the parent, don’t try to be best friends with them... you’re a parent now. Just because you aren’t the biological parent doesn’t mean you don’t have an effect on how they grow up, treat them like your own child.

Good luck! – Randie B.

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

39

HALLO W EEN :

TRICKS and TREATS for learning hose “teachable moments” can happen any time, any place, on any occasion. As we move into the holiday season, one such event is Halloween. Aside from your personal, school, or neighborhood activities, Halloween can be a prime learning opportunity. Here are six ways to turn Halloween into an enjoyable learning experience to share with your child.

T

Vocabulary: There are many words related to Halloween which can be categorized as nouns or verbs. Words can be alphabetized. They can be used to create word pictures or to find rhyming words. They can be sorted by number of syllables. Some words to consider: black cat, boo, broom, candy, costume, Fall, Jack-o-lantern, October, pumpkin, scary, treat, trick, and witch.

40

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

Big Word into Little Words: Using only the letters in the word Halloween, make as many small words as you can in five minutes. You can offer points for the total number of words, with a bonus for words of five letters or more. Some of these words include: he, hen, hall, all, an, law, lean, low, eon, no, own, we, and when.

Real vs. Make Believe: Encourage critical thinking about facts and fiction.

Discuss fairy tales and characters in children’s books. Decide which parts of a story are about real things and which parts are pretend.

This can also be an opportunity to discuss social issues about truth, misinformation, lies, and deception.

Dr. Valerie Allen

Creative Imagination: Talk about costumes and who they represent.

Discuss how people dress in different countries and those who wear uniforms.

Talk about the difference between styles of dress and costumes. Use a story character and make up an adventure story. Discuss the purpose of clothing to offer protection from the elements, safety, and identification with others in a group or organization.

Cultural beliefs: Research the history of the celebration of Halloween.

There are significant religious, cultural, and agricultural roots in the celebration of Halloween. This can open discussions about differing beliefs, understanding, and tolerance.

Food Celebrations: There are certain foods we enjoy during specific holidays. You can find simple, no-cook recipes for children to make and enjoy together. Discussions can include favorite holiday foods. You can talk about the ingredients used in pumpkin pie, apple pie, and mincemeat pie; which items are the same and which are different. Candies can be counted, sorted by texture or color, or by flavor. Other foods might include maple syrup, apples, cinnamon, and cider. This can also lead to a discussing of sharing food and candy with others in the community.

Halloween can be used to open doors to leaning, not just to those cute little Trick or Treaters!

Dr. Valerie Allen is a child psychologist, author, and speaker. She has published two children’s books, “Summer School for Smarties” and “Bad Hair, Good Hat, New Friends.” Oh yes, she has also raised six children!

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

41

D A I LY E V E N T S / / O C T O B E R 2 0 1 4

calendar WEDS | 01 Demystifying Dyslexia: Resources and S trategies for S uccess If your child struggles to learn letters, sounds and words, or lags behind her peers in reading and spelling, does that mean she has dyslexia? If so, what does that mean for her academic performance? This program will explain and define this language-based learning disability, and provide a blueprint for supporting school success.

Time: 7-9 p.m., Price: $10, Phone: (513) 871-6080 ext. 402, Location: Springer School and Center, http://events.constantcontact.com/register/ev ent?llr=fwfpn9bab&oeidk=a07e9pvgyrgefb 0a614

L ittle T ykes It’s big mammal day! Kids ages 3–6 and their caregivers will enjoy a furry good time learning about whales, elephants, bears and more.

Time: 11 a.m., Price: Free, Phone: (513) 521-7275, Location: Winton Woods, www.greatparks.org

Thurs | 02 little yogis Join Hollie Nesbitt from Omya Studio in Northside for a yoga class for children ages 2-4, with an emphasis on focus, flexibility and fun!

Ages 2-4. Space is limited, registration required.

Time: 10:30 a.m., Price: $9, Phone: (513) 731-2665, Location: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore, www.bluemanateebooks.com

// OCTOBER 2014

R ocktober on the S q uare Occurring Each Saturday in October Fall celebration of seasonal beers, entertainment and chances to win Bengals tickets.

Time: 5-8 p.m., Phone: (513) 352-4066, Location: Fountain Square, www.myfountainsquare.com

Greater C incinnati K itchen , B ath and Remodeling S how Through Sunday, October 5th View latest trends, products and companies necessary to enhance your current home or compliment new construction.

Price: $8, free ages 13 and under. $3 discount at Kroger, Phone: (513) 419-7300, Location: Duke Energy Convention Center, cincinnatikitchenbathshow.com

Price: FREE with Museum Admission, Phone: (513) 287-7000, Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, www.cincymuseum.org

AR T rageous S aturdays P resents: F risch M arionette ’ s P uppet K apow The Frisch Marionette Company Presents “PUPPETS KAPOW” The puppet show that packs a Punch A fast paced, fun filled show featuring fabulous puppets performing fantastic feats Marionettes Hand puppets Shadow puppets Blacklight puppets Rod puppets and more will sing, dance and perform tricks that will have you laughing and shouting for more.

Time: 11 a.m., Price: Single Tickets: $7, Group (10+): $5, Phone: (513) 745-5705, Location: Muntz Theater, University of Cincinnati Blue Ash, https:// ucblueash.edu/artrageous

Autumn B ash Midway, music, fireworks, haunted trails, bingo, games, karaoke, cornhole tournament and food.

Time: 12-11 p.m., Price: Free. Parking: $2, Phone: (513) 553-2072, Location: Washington Township Park, http://washingtontwpclermont.org

Fri | 03 Operation P umpkin Through Sunday, October 5th Weekend filled with arts/crafts/food and beverage. Pumpkin carvers, pumpkin regatta and more.

Phone: (513) 844-8050, Location: City of Hamilton, www.cityofsculpture.org

FREE FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! Join us EVERY Saturday for Circus Saturdays at Northgate Mall! We offer a new FREE children’s show each week, performed by our friends at the Cincinnati Circus Company. For a list of shows please visit our website.

Time: 11 a.m., Price: FREE!, Phone: (513) 385-5600, Location: Northgate Mall, www. mynorthgatemall.com

Apple Butter F estival Demonstrations of homemade apple butter cooked over open fires, then immediately canned and ready for sale.

Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Price: Free, Phone: (513) 523-6444, Location: Hueston Woods Pioneer Farm, Oxford, www.oxfordmusuem association.com

Sat | 04

S uper S prouts: S platter!

Stand back and put on a smock, as we splash and splatter paint to create a wild and crazy work of art. For children 5 and younger.

Northgate M all C ircus S aturday

SUN | 05 T hree S isters Harvest F estival Pick your own pumpkins out of 20 acres of pumpkin patch surrounded by farmland.

Educational activities and workshops, hay rides and straw mazes, festival food, music, unique vendors and more.

Phone: (937) 203-8289, Location: Branstrator Farm, Clarksville, www.branstratorfarm.com/

M ake a Mess at the M anatee Occurring Each Monday Join Ms. Kelli every Monday to enjoy this wonderful outlet for your child’s creative side.

Have fun listening to a good book and participating in an art-making activity with your child. Ages 2-4. (*pre-registration required).

Price: $7/child, Phone: (513) 731-2665, Location: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore, www.blue manateebooks.com

Weds | 08 Great P umpkin R oll R ide Bicycle tour for families on lightly traveled country roads. Fully supported with food, music, mum/pumpkin farm. Ride on your own or with group at 11 am or 1 pm. Part of larger ride from Harrison Jr HS which starts at 7:30 am. Check the web site for more information.

Time: 9:30-2 a.m., Price: $45, Phone: (513) 591-0048, Location: Wendel Farm, Harrison, www.greatpumpkinrollride.com

Former Reds F irstbaseman S ean C asey Former Reds’ former first baseman, Sean Casey kicks off the 52nd year of the TownHall Lecture Series sponsored by the Montgomery Woman’s Club, October 8 and 9th. Wednesday and Thursday morning lectures will be held at Montgomery Assembly of God at 11a.m. Wednesday evening’s lecture will be held at Sycamore Jr. High School at 8pm. Profits from this popular series fund need-based scholarships for local students.

Time: 8-9 p.m., Price: $45, Phone: (513) 684-1632, www.montgomerywomansclub.org

42

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

Thurs | 09 L ight T he N ight Walk An annual walk fundraising event that celebrates and commemorates the lives of blood cancer patients. Friends, families and coworkers form fundraising teams and millions of consumers help by donating at retail outlets.

Walk to make a difference in the fight against cancer.

Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m., Phone: (513) 698-2458, Location: Sawyer Point, www.lls.org/aboutlls/ chapters/soh

Zoo Brew This wildly popular annual beer tasting event takes place through the Zoo and will feature a wide variety of beers. Light fare from local restaurants, live music courtesy of B105, special animal encounters and more will add additional fun to this grown up night at the Zoo. Time: 6:30-9 p.m., Price: $45; or $35 for designated drivers, Phone: (513) 281-4700, Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, www.cincinnatizoo.org

R iver Grill before the B ig Chill Kansas City BBQ Society sanctioned event.

Professional and amateur competitors vie for $20,000-plus in prizes. Food, drink, Kid’s Zone, awards ceremony and music. Presented

by Cincinnati Parks.

Price: $5, Phone: (513) 321-6070, Location: Sawyer Point, www.cincinnatiparks.com

M ayes Bluegrass F estival Through Saturday, October 11th Bluegrass and American roots festival. Food and merchandise vendors, Queen City Boat tours, music, activities for kids, craft beer village and beer garden.

Price: FREE, Phone: (513) 378-1735, Location: Bellevue Beach Park

YM C A C amp E rnst Lumberjack W eekend Through Sunday, October 12th

Fri | 10

Campers age 9-15 can enjoy all the fun of camp packed into just one weekend. All campers and counselors stay in Lakeview Lodge (which is heated).

F itton Family F ridays: Z ak Morgan

Price: $125, Phone: (589) 586-6181, Location: YMCA Camp Ernst, www.myycamp.org

Listening to his grandfather invent yarns, limericks, and even new words had a profound effect on him. Now, as a successful entertainer, Morgan has been compared to Shel Silverstein and Dr. Seuss because of his wit and child friendly sophistication.

Sat | 11

Time: 7:30 p.m., Price: $10 for members; $12 for non-members; Children cost (16 and under): FREE, Phone: (513) 863-8873, Location: Fitton Center for Creative Arts, www.fittoncenter.org

B ooks by the B anks Appearances by authors and book illustrators.

Variety of book talks, author panel discussions and activities in Kids’ Corner.Authors: Maria Philip Stead, Dave Zirin, Hampton Sides and many more.

Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Price: Free, Phone: (513) 419-7300, Location: Duke Energy Convention Center, booksbythebanks.org

Running S cared 5k and K ids F un Run The Kids Fun Run is 1-2:30pm with Halloween Fest directly following. We always have lots of fun entertainment for the children including food, drinks, face painting, a hayride and a costume contest. Only $5! There will be live music in the beer garden, plenty of delicious food and drinks from our sponsors, a costume contest and lots of door prizes.

Phone: (513) 309-7464, Location: Reading Veterans Stadium, Reading, www.RunningScared5k.org

S pooky P ooch The eighth annual event will have activities for dogs and their owners; including Spookiest Pooch contest, Spooky Pooch Parade, Creative Grooming Competition, Demonstrations for proper care of your pet and training. SPCA animals also available for adoption. All activities selected to further develop the bond between owner and pet through increased knowledge, new ideas for exercise and pet/owner enjoyment, and great entertainment for both guests and pets.

Time: 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Phone: (513) 771-7200, Location: Washington Park in Glendale, www. hwbcommunitycenter.org/events.html

Black Walnut W eekend Through Sunday, October 12th Bring the family to celebrate nature’s nuttiest harvest in the Midwest: a rain of walnuts! This fun event has something for the whole family, including games, crafts, tastes and more!

Cincinnati’s own fun and entertaining band, Jake Speed & the Freddies, will perform on Sunday from 12:30–3:30 p.m.

Time: 12-4 p.m., Price: Free, Phone: (513) 521-7275, Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, www.greatparks.org

Ohio S auerkraut F estival Through Sunday, October 12th Food, crafts and more. Craft vendors from more than 25 states. Cabbage rolls, ruebens, sauerkraut sundae, brownies, cookies, pies, pizza, cabbage soup and more.

Price: Free, Phone: (513) 897-8855, Location: Downtown Waynesville, www.waynesvilleohio.com

T runk ‘ R T reat and Classic C ar S how Car show, children’s activities, food and music.

Trunk ‘R Treating for ages 10 and under 3:30- 5:30 p.m.

10

TH

RIVER GRILL BEFORE THE BIG CHILL

44

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

Time: 2:30-6 p.m., Price: $5 per child; free for car show-only spectators, Phone: (513) 388-4513, Location: Beech Acres Park, www.anderson parks.com

Sun | 12

Tues | 14

Sat | 18

S ensory S unday: S tories , S ongs and F un for you and your L ittle One Also on Sunday, October 26th

Family N ight at Hofbrauhaus

petcasso Art S how and S ale

Family Night at Hofbrauhaus features facepainting, balloon animals and prizes. Plus Kids 12 and under eat FREE.

These private interactive play groups feature the popular Miss Meliss, who keeps babies and their parents engaged and entertained with her unique brand of fun. Play dates are open to families in the Jewish community with children two years and younger in which at least one parent is Jewish. Plus, two families will each win a $50 Target Gift Card at every event. A program of Shalom Family, an initiative of The Mayerson Foundation and Mayerson JCC.

Phone: (859) 491-7200, Location: Hofbräuhaus Newport

Come and enjoy a day of Arts and Crafts, Jewelery, Entertainment and family fun! Food and soft drinks will be available for purchase and there will be special activities and vendors for children - Facepainting, Tattoos, Coloring.

Time: 2-3 p.m., Price: Free with RSVP (online), Phone: (513) 722-7245, Location: Gymboree Play & Music, http://myshalomfamily.org/

S econd S unday Family S howtime: Pirates of P enzance Welcome aboard, matey! Join in the fun as the Pirate King, Ruth, and Frederic meet Mabel and the Major General for some olde English merriment. Romance blossoms, loyalty is put to the test, and mistakes are forgiven in this jolly good adaptation of Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic masterpiece. For students K – 6 and families.

Time: 2:00 PM, Price: free for kids and just $5 per adult, Phone: (513) 497-2860, Location: Clifton Cultural Arts Center, www.cliftoncultural arts.org

Thurs | 16 C ir q ue du S oleil: Varekai Through Sunday, October 19th Center transforms into a forest, at the summit of a volcano, in an extraordinary world, a world called Varekai.

Price: $37-$102, $30-$83 ages 2-12. Parking: $10, Phone: (859) 442-2652, Location: Bank of Kentucky Center, www.bankofkentuckycenter.com

Fri | 17 B aby Tour This 30-minute experience will introduce you and your infant (ages 0-2) to the world of art with a tour designed to stimulate their developing minds. We will explain the positive effects of visual stimulation with masterpieces that will mesmerize the Art Museum’s youngest visitors.

Time: 2-2:30 p.m., Price: Limited space, first come basis; Reservations Recommended, Phone: (513) 721-2787, Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org

Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Price: Free Admission, Phone: (513) 703-7474, Location: Mayerson Jewish Community Center, www.Petcasso.org

Disney ’ s Beauty and the Beast JR .

Through Sunday, October 19th and also on Saturday, October 25th The brainy and beautiful Belle yearns to escape her provincial life..and her brute of a suitor, Gaston. However, Belle gets more adventurous than she wanted when she becomes a captive in the Beast’s enchanted castle! Dancing flatware, menacing wolves, and singing furniture fill the stage with thrills in this beloved fairy tale about very different people finding strength in one another and learning how to love.

Phone: (513) 569-8080, Location: Taft Theatre, www.thechildrenstheatre.com

Sun | 19 3rd S unday F unday: Fabulous Fall F unday

Come cheer on the Bengals as they take on the Panthers! Who Dey!

M agic Forest Halloween H ikes Through Saturday, October 18th

Halloween is on its way – start the fun at Fabulous Fall Funday! Make a fall decoration to take home, meet some live ‘spooky’ animals from Great Parks of Hamilton County, become an art detective at the Art Cart, and at 2:00, enjoy a performance of Hansel and Gretel by ArtReach (ideal for kids in grades K-5).

Time: 1 p.m., Price: Varies, Phone: (513) 621-3550, Location: Paul Brown Stadium, www.bengals.com

Walk through pumpkin-lit trail. Meet costumed characters from nature and history. Non-scary holiday walk.

Time: 1-4 p.m., Price: Free, Phone: (513) 241-0343, Location: Taft Museum of Art, www.taft museum.org

C incinnati Bengals V S C arolina Panthers

Fall Food F estival Food demos, tastings, pumpkin coloring, a pie-baking contest and bands celebrate fall at the market.

Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Phone: (513) 665-4839, Location: Findlay Market, www.findlay market.org

Mon | 13 K ids ’ Day at the Park: Leaves for L ittle Folk Let’s learn all about leaves! Bring your little naturalist to have some fun with leaves. A craft and a hike will be included.

Times: 10 a.m. & 1 p.m., Price: $6/child, payable at the door, Phone: (513) 521-7275, Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, www.greatparks.org

46

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

Time: 7-9 p.m., Price: $6, Phone: (513) 321-6208, Location: Caldwell Nature Center, www.cincinnatiparks.com/

S alt L ick F estival Celebration Through Sunday, October 19th

C incinnati Chocolate F estival Chocolate tastings from local vendors, celebrity chef demonstrations, live vendor and amateur competitions, contests, raffle baskets, children’s activities and more.

Price: Free, Phone: (859) 384-6617, Location: Jane’s Saddlebag, Union, www.janes saddlebag.com

Time: 12-5 p.m., Price: $10, free ages 12 and under; $7 advance at Kroger. Admission includes five tickets for sample tastings, raffle baskets and Kids Zone activities, Phone: (513) 325-5239, Location: Cintas Center, Xavier University, cincinnatichocolatefestival.com

S pider Jamboree

Thurs | 23

Bring your 3–5 year-old to this month’s jamboree. Through crafts and activities, we will learn all about spiders.

A nimal Tales

Homemade food and desserts. Serving homemade chicken and dumplings.

Time: 10 a.m., Price: $6/child, register by 10/15, Phone: (513) 521-7275, Location: Woodland Mound, www.greatparks.org

Nature has many stories to tell. Families are invited to join a naturalist for a nature- themed story.

Time: 11 a.m., Price: Free, Phone: (513) 521-7275, Location: Woodland Mound, www.greatparks.org

Fri | 24 Nature S tory T ime with I mago!

Price: Museum Admission, Phone: (513) 287-7000, Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, www.cincymuseum.org

Join us for a monthly installment of nature stories, songs and other fun activities with our friends from Imago!

Aladdin and F riends

Time: 10:30 a.m., Price: Free, Ages 2 & up, Phone: (513) 731-2665, Location: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore, www. imagoearth.org

Madcap Puppets. Harry and Max have a spectacular show to present, if only they can keep their little assistant, Tweedle, from getting into too much trouble. Tales include “Aladdin and the Magic Lamp” and “The Girl and the North Wind.”

R apunzel , Lexington Children ’ s T heatre

Time: 11 a.m., Price: $6, Phone: (513) 241-6550, Location: Covedale Center for the Performing Arts, www.cincinnati landmarkproductions.com

Growing up is hard. Just ask Rapunzel. She loves color and paint, birds and the sea, but all her Nan seems to love is being safe and safe isn’t very fun As her hair grows longer, her tower grows higher, and her curiosity grows BIGGER. Find out what happens when our feisty friend Rapunzel decides it’s time for a little adventure.

Time: 7-8 p.m., Price: $5-$7, Phone: (513) 867-5348, Location: Fairfield Community Arts Center, www.fairfield-city.org/events/details. cfm?id=39563

Sat | 25 B at F est Did you know that a colony of bats lives inside Union Terminal? Say hello to our resident big brown bats and explore the world’s largest artificial limestone cave during our daylong celebration of these amazing creatures!

C incinnati C yclones ’ F irst Faceoff The Cyclones kick off the season in style with $1 Hotdogs, Pizza, & Soda!

Time: 7:30 p.m., Phone: (513) 421-4111, Location: US Bank Arena, www. cycloneshockey.com

Sun | 26 A V ery Green Halloween Non-scary, family-friendly Halloween celebration. Come in non-scary, natureinspired costume and celebrate season.

Nature activities and healthy treats available.

Time: 12-3 p.m., Price: Free with admission to fall show: $4, $2 ages 5-12, free ages 4 and

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

47

under, Phone: (513) 421-4086, Location: Krohn Con-servatory, www.cincinnatiparks.com/ krohn

26

TH

Howling P ooch Parade Join in the fun at the Civic Center as local dogs and their people participate in this annual costume event. All proceeds benefit Wyoming Youth Services. Dogs compete for prizes in categories including “Best Costume”, “Best Dog Trick”, and “Best Tail Wagger”. This familyfriendly event includes agility demonstrations, dog themed vendors, refreshments, and raffles.

All dogs must be on a leash. Dog registration starts at 1pm.

HOWLING POOCH PARADE

Time: 2 p.m., Phone: (513) 821-7600, Location: Wyoming Civic Center, www.wyoming.oh.us/ civiccenter.cfm

Pajama Party and Concert with R ick Recht Come in your PJs to an interactive children’s pajama party concert with Jewish musical sensation Rick Recht. Rick has 13 hit Jewish music albums, including two children’s albums, Look at Me and Free to Be the Jew in Me. This concert is presented by PJ Library, Jewish Family Service and the Mayerson JCC. Hosted by Adath Israel.

Time: 4-6 p.m., Price: Free with RSVP, Phone: (513) 761-7500, Location: Adath Israel Congregation, www.mayersonjcc. org/?page=pj_library

W ee W ednesday: Hallo(W E E)n W ednesday

S pook-A-Palooza

A great program keeps getting better! Our popular “open house” program for preschoolers and their parents offers interactive learning stations in the galleries, story tellers, and a hands-on art project each month. We hope you’ll like our new ideas for the season!

Perfect for ages 2–5.

Trunk or Treat in parking lot. Followed by celebration with inflatable slide, outdoor playground, putt putt, climbing wall, indoor family swim, games, food and more.

Time: 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Price: Free. Reservations Not Required, Phone: (513) 721-2787, Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, www.cincinnati artmuseum.org

Time: 3-5 p.m., Price: $5 ages 3 and up, free for adults and ages 2 and under, Phone: (513) 489-7575, Location: Kids First Sports Center, www.kidsfirstsports.com

Mon | 27 S uper S prouts: Monster M ash!

Silly or scary, sniffling or smiling – let your child’s imagination run wild as they create their own monster masterpiece! For children 5 and younger.

Price: FREE with Museum Admission, Phone: (513) 287-7000, Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, www.cincymuseum.org

Weds | 29 Disney on Ice Presents P rincesses and H eroes Through Sunday, November 2nd Enter a world of wonder where heroes and hearts prevail. Join all your favorite characters and watch in awe as their dreams all come true.

High-flying jumps, daring acrobatics, breathtaking skating and lovable Disney friends are just a wish away!

Price: $13-$58, Phone: (513) 421-4111, Location:US Bank Arena, www.disney onice.com

48

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

Thurs | 30 Clermont Family YM C A Fall F est Join us at the Clermont YMCA the night before Halloween for an evening of fun including games, prizes, and a “trunk or treat.”

Time: 6-8 p.m., Phone: (513) 724-9622, Location: Clermont YMCA, www.MyY.org

M agic of the N ight Featuring illusionist Stephen Knight in an original haunted magic show filled with chills and thrills for the whole family. Comedy abounds as when one young audience member is invited to a magic laboratory to create their very own monster. The special effects and props featured in this show are spooky – not bloody or gory – making this the perfect family fright for adults and children to enjoy together. Recommended for grades 1-8. Show off your Halloween spirit by wearing costumes to the show!

Time: 7 p.m., Price: Admission is $7 per person, Phone: (513) 732-5200, Location: Calico Children’s Theatre at UC Clermont College, www. ucclermont.edu/community_arts/calico_ theatre.html

T runk or T reat Hayrides, train rides, vendors, candy and fun!

Time: 7-8:30 p.m., Price: FREE, Phone: 513-7799111, Location: Midwest Cheer Elite, www.midwestcheerelite.com

Fri | 31 Northgate M all- O -W een Keep your ghouls and boys warm and dry this Halloween for some FREE FAMILY FUN! We’ll be providing SPOOKtacular entertainment, including FREE indoor trick- or-treating and a FREE $250 costume contest.

PLUS, 94.9 will be at the mall playing Halloween tunes. Your family will have a scary good time, rain or shine.

Time: 4-7 p.m., Price: FREE, Phone: (513) 385-5600, Location: Northgate Mall, www.mynorthgatemall.com

PLEASE NOTE // At Cincinnati Parent, we work hard to ensure our calendar and guide information is accurate Occasionally, event specifics change after we go to press. Therefore, we encourage our readers to call locations or visit them on the web to verify information.

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

49

ONGOING EVENTS // OCTOBER 2014

// ONGOING EVENTS Ohio Renaissance F estival Occurring Every Sat & Sun Through Sunday, October 19th

Covington is Haunted Occurring Every Fri & Sat Beginning Friday, September 26th Through Saturday, November 1st

A classic Renaissance Fair with 16th century theme. Jousting, displays, costumed performers, entertainment stages, arts and crafts shops and concessions. Rain or shine. Fun for the whole family!

Hear about controversy, neighborhood feuds and spirits that still haunt mansions within this idealistic Northern Kentucky community. Guides illustrate shadowy history of Covington.

Presented by American Legacy Tours.

Times: 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM, Price: $21.95, $9.95 ages 5-12; discounts available online, Phone: (513) 897-7000, Location: Ohio Renaissance Festival, Harveysburg, www.renfestival.com/

Jack- O -L antern Junction Occurring Daily Sunday, November 2nd

Price: $20, Phone: (513) 509-2694, Location: Baker Hunt Art and Cultural Center, www.bakerhunt.com

O ctober Family Open House: S pooky S uncatchers Occurring Each Saturday Beginning Saturday, October 4th Through Saturday, October 25th Bats, pumpkins, monsters, oh my!

Get ready for Halloween by creating a one-of-a-kind glass artwork.

Instruction will walk you through the basics of fusing a spooky scene of your own design, using a variety of Bullseye Glass materials.

Price: $13.95, $11.95 seniors, $9.95 children, free ages 2 and under, Phone: (513) 898-8000, Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, www.

streetstudios.com

P umpkin Patch E xpress Occurring Every Sat & Sun Beginning Saturday, October 4th Through Sunday, October 26th Come join the Lebanon Mason Monroe (LM&M) Railroad for some fall fun! Come aboard for a train ride through Warren County in Southwestern, Ohio to Schappacher Farm in Mason, Ohio. Walk through a real working farm, pet the animals, find your way through a corn maze, and select a small pumpkin (pie pumpkin) of your very own! Homemade snacks are for sale (Cash Only) at the Schappacher Farm Barn.

Price: $18.50, $15.50 ages 62 and up and ages 5-15, $8.50 ages 2-4, free under age 2, Phone: (513) 933-8022, Location: Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad, www.lebanonrr.com

Times: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Location: Brazee Street Studios, Phone: (513) 321-0206, www.brazee

A veritable playground of terror, Halloween Haunt features more than 600 monsters, 11 mesmerizing mazes, four spine-chilling scare zones, and 20 rides including the Banshee, The Beast and Diamondback roller coasters.

Ages 13 and up.

Price: $37.99 and up Saturdays; $29.99 and up Fridays, Location: Kings Island, Phone: (513) 754-5700,

Pumpkin Patch Occurring Each Friday Beginning October 10th Through October 24th Hop on a hayride to pick out the perfect pumpkin from our patch!

Visit some animals, check out the fall crops and play in the Playbarn.

Activities are geared for children ages 2–8. Adult admission does not include a pumpkin, but pumpkins may be purchased separately.

Times: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Price: Pre-register online: $6/child, $2.50/ adult; Day of event: $7/child, $3/ adult, Location: Parky’s Farm, Phone: (513) 521-3276,

www.greatparks.org

Haunted V illage Occurring Every Fri & Sat Beginning Friday, October 10th Through Saturday, October 25th A family friendly, slight fright event featuring a village full of ghostly attractions including the headless horseman, mad scientist, wagon rides, witches house and haunted cemetery.

Times: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Price: $8, Phone: (513) 563-9484, Where: Heritage Village Museum, www.

heritagevillagecincinnati.org

S andyland Acres Haunted Hayride and Farmers Revenge Occurring Every Fri & Sat Through Saturday, November 1st Ride wagon into cinema horror past and present. Try luck in Farmers Revenge and walk through haunted barn.

Times: 8:00 PM, Price: Hayride: $12.

Farmers Revenge: $10. Combo: $20, Phone: (859) 322-0516, Location: Sandyland Acres, www.sandy

landacres.com

50

Halloween Haunt Occurring Every Fri & Sat Through Saturday, November 1st

www.visitkingsisland.com

Halloween decorations, walkthrough trick-or-treat maze, indoor pumpkin patch, Halloween crafts, talking pumpkin, Halloweenville miniature animated display, outdoor straw maze and Halloween-themed hand-cranked train cars and electric train ride. All other attractions also open.

entertrainmentjunction.com

For more fun ONG OI NG events , visit www.C I NC I NNAT I PARE N T.com

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2014

W eekend Workouts in the Park Saturdays through October 25th Get outside and get in shape with the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati.

The Y offers free Saturday morning workouts at beautiful Washington Park in downtown Cincinnati. It’s free and open to the public. Classes start at 9:00 am and all ages are welcome.

Phone: (513) 241-5348, Location: Washington Park, www.MyY.org

P umpkin Days on the Farm Occurring Every Sat & Sun Beginning Saturday, October 4th Through Sunday, October 26th Real family working farm. Hayrides, pumpkin picking, barnyard animals, sheep shearing, cow milking, kids hay maze and more.

Times: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Price: $7, free ages 3 and under, Phone: (859) 485-7000, Location: Benton Family Farm, http://bentonfarm.com

Corn M aze , P etting Zoo and Pick-YourOwn-P umpkin Patch Occurring Daily Through Friday, October 31st Features 6 1/2-acre corn maze and game, petting farm, straw maze, corn bin play area, cornhole, education center, farmland, campfire packages, crafts, chrysanthemums and hayride to pick-your-ownpumpkin patch open through Oct. 31. Weekdays open for mum and pumpkin sales: October 2-6 p.m.

Price: $7, $6 ages 3-12, free ages 2 and under, Phone: (812) 775-9051, Location: Wendel Farms, www.wendelfarms.com

H e K eeps Me S inging Occurring Daily (except Mon & Tue) Through Saturday, November 1st If you liked Smoke on the Mountain, you’ll love He Keeps Me Singing!

The Singing Hatfield Family will tickle your funny bone and touch your heart while singing and playing those great old gospel standards.

Songs like “How Great Thou Art,” “Just As I Am,” and “Love Lifted Me” are the musical setting in this down-home, musical about faith and family.

Price: $30-$71, Phone: (800) 6779505, Location: La Comedia Dinner Theatre, www.lacomedia.com

I sland of Lemurs: M adagascar Through October 9th In the age of the dinosaurs, a family of tiny castaways was swept out to sea. Eventually they landed on a mysterious island and evolved into some of the most extraordinary animals you’ll ever meet—the lemurs of Madagascar. These ultimate survivors are now endangered, but scientists are working to save them in the only place on earth they call home, Madagascar. Join us in our five-story OMNIMAX® Theater and adventure through this beautiful island to understand how these explorers survive in the modern world. Check website for daily showtimes.

Phone: (513) 287-7000, Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, www.cincymuseum.org

CINCINNaTI PaRENT // oCTOBER 2014

FUN &WACKY sun

MOn

TUES

WEDS

THURS

FRI

S AT

day of the girl

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

OCTOBER 2014 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

51