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DAYTON

PARENT daytonparentmagazine.com

OCTOBER 2014 FREE

pint-sized

pursuits

enrichment activities for preschoolers

stepping into

STEP-PARENTING

breakdown breast test

fallfun GUIDE

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PREMIER HEALTH

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contents

fallfunguide

table of contents

features

11

pg.

PINT-SIZED PURSUITS

PRESCHOOL ENRICHMENT GUIDE

11

FALL FUN!

17

STEPPING INTO STEP-PARENTING

20

BREAST TEST BREAKDOWN

31

FALL FUN GUIDE

pg.

14

Fall Fun!

columns pg.

20

Breast Test Breakdown

22

23

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

24

ASK THE TEACHER

27

THE MODERN MILITARY PARENT

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in every issue 6

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

7

ONLINE BUZZ

8

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

32

OCTOBER EVENTS

33

ONGOING EVENTS

35

WACKY CALENDAR

on the cover

TRUE CONFESSIONS OF A STAY-AT-HOME DAD

29

31

// OCTOBER 2014

Pint-sized Pursuits

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14

pg.

SAFE HALLOWEEN COSTUME TIPS

Cooper (18 Months Old) photo by: Krystal Clear Photography

OCTOBER 2014 [ dayton parent ] 5

publisher’s note

DAYTON

All that’s Fall!

PARENT PUBLISHER

Mary Wynne Cox | Mary@daytonparentmagazine.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER & SALES DIRECTOR

Katy Mark | Katy@daytonparentmagazine.com

W

EDITOR

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 description 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 ever-increasing survival rates; read Breast Test Breakdown for a description of the most popular screening methods doctors are using today.

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 step-parenting.

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 Dayton Parent. We wish you an October filled with caramel apples, spooky fun and snuggles in cozy blankets!

Susan Bryant | Susan@daytonparentmagazine.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Jennifer Baum | Jennifer@daytonparentmagazine.com Katie Clark | Katie@daytonparentmagazine.com Diane DeVillez | Diane@daytonparentmagazine.com

WEB DEVELOPER

Wendy Cox | Wendy@daytonparentmagazine.com

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

Jennifer Beahrs | Jbeahrs@daytonparentmagazine.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Maria Tancredi | Maria@daytonparentmagazine.com

BUSINESS MANAGER

Roxanne Burns | Roxanne@daytonparentmagazine.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Wendy Schrepherman | S.Wendy@daytonparentmagazine. com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michelle Shirk, Megan Noel, Steffy McCourt, Sarah Bricker-Hunt ,Pete Gilbert, Deb Krupowicz, Kelly Blewett, Molly Blake

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

calendar@daytonparentmagazine.com

CONTACT US

daytonparent@daytonparentmagazine.com

COPYRIGHT

Dayton 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 daytonparentmagazine.com

Katy Mark

Associate Publisher

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online buzz “

“

Most likely, if so it’ll be the mist.

-Kat F.

“

“

Nope. It has never worked for me.

-Amanda C.

Yes. Even if you still get the flu it will be less severe and not last as long. We already have flu cases at the hospital I work in.

-Andrea H.

“

Yes. Our family had the flu the past two years and my son bounced back like a champ while mommy and daddy were sick for a week!

-Morgan W.

“

“

WE ASKED: WILL YOU HAVE YOUR KIDS GET FLU SHOTS THIS FALL?

“

f

online buzz

«

@

Like Dayton

Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter for contests and all things Dayton Parent.

Parent on Facebook for Freebie Fridays & surprise contests.

OCTOBER 2014 [ dayton parent ] 7

community spotlight community spotlight

Disney On Ice presents Princesses and Heroes

Riverside Jaycees presents “Lights on, No Scare” Matinee Younger kids can experience a “Lights on, No scare” Matinee with no monsters inside the Castle or on the Trail of their normally haunted house. This is a time for kids with their families to come and see a behind the scenes look at the haunt – allowing children to see that the props are fake and that it is all just for fun! Booths and activities will be set up as well, along with a police K-9 demonstration and fire trucks. One hundred per cent of the funds raised for this special matinee will go towards the Senior Pantry, a shopping trip for underprivileged children and direct community projects. Admission is $3.00 per person with $1.00 off with a non-perishable food item. Contact (937) 254-2576 or go to www.riverside-jaycees.com for more info. Date: October 18. Location: 1213 Old Harshman Rd., Riverside, OH 45431

Charitable giving made easier this holiday season If you’re like most people, you like to give to your favorite charities during the holidays and throughout the year. However, budgeting for these gifts and keeping track of receipts for tax time can be a hassle. The Dayton Foundation is making the process easier for you through their Charitable Checking Account ServiceSM. This free, donor-directed service functions like a personal checking account. You may deposit cash or donate appreciated assets, such as stocks, into your account when your budget allows. You then instruct the Foundation which IRS-approved charities you want to donate to, how much and when.

The Dayton Foundation does all the work, including sending the grant checks, and simplifies the record keeping and tax-reporting process. You can support the charities of your choice – locally, across the country, even internationally. There is no fee and no minimum balance is required. Opening an account can be done online at www.daytonfoundation.org/ ccaserv.html. You can also do all of your giving online through the Foundation’s free, secure Donor Express system. For more information, please visit www.daytonfoundation.org or call (937) 222-0410.

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Enter a world of wonder where heroes and hearts prevail. Join Ariel as she yearns to explore the world above the waves and Prince Eric breaks Ursula’s slithering spell to reclaim his one true love. See Prince Philip defeat the evil Maleficent as she transforms herself into a firebreathing dragon in a race against time to rescue Sleeping Beauty’s Aurora. Be there to discover a whole new world with Jasmine and Aladdin. And, watch in awe as the dreams of Cinderella, Belle, Snow White, Rapunzel and Tiana all come true. High flying jumps, daring acrobatics, breathtaking skating and lovable Disney friends are just a wish away! Disney On Ice presents Princesses & Heroes where believing is just the beginning! Tickets start at $13 and can be purchased at www.nuttercenter.com. Dates: October 22-26. Location: Ervin J. Nutter Center, 3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy., Dayton, OH 45435

Pink Ribbon Girls and Klosterman Baking Company October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Pink Ribbon Girls and Klosterman Baking Company are both doing their part to help eradicate this disease. Pink Ribbon Girls is an outreach mission that offers support and free direct services to women in treatment and their families throughout all phases of the breast cancer journey to help with everyday life needs. These free direct services include healthy meals, housekeeping, transportation and peer support. Program support is currently limited to the Cincinnati and Dayton metro areas and surrounding counties. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Klosterman’s Pink Loaf campaign is promoting Pink Ribbon Girls and their mission. Consumers can rise to the occasion by purchasing speciallymarked Pink Loaves in local area grocery aisles where participating items are sold. For coupons, go to Facebook.com/KlostermanBread.

For more information go to info@pinkribbongirls.org or call (937) 350-6767.

LEGO KidsFest Learn tips and tricks from a LEGO Master Builder! The LEGO Master Builder Academy is just one of the many exciting areas families can visit during the 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 a three acre space! All sessions offer the same exhibits and activities and all activities are included in the price of admission. Come be amazed – it’s worth the trip!

Tickets are $20 for kids and $22 for adults. Go to www.legokidsfest. com or call (317) 262-3400 for more information. Dates: November 7 – 9. Location: Indianapolis Convention Center - Halls I, J, K 100 South Capitol Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46225

OCTOBER 2014 [ dayton parent ] 9

DAYTON MALL

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Pint-sized Pursuits Enrichment activities for the preschool crowd Sarah Bricker-Hunt

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, try a children’s theater production. Victoria Theatre Association (victoriatheatre.com) handles ticketing for a number of kid-friendly shows like the upcoming Pinkalicious the Musical, Imaginocean and The Adventures of Robin Hood. For something even less formal, don’t be afraid to 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.

If 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. The Dayton area 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!

ents 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. Dayton has several nature-focused organizations that offer preschool programs throughout the year. Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park offers affordable, occasional programs for the preschool set, including the popular Nature Quest and Junior Ranger programs. Five River MetroParks offers special parent-child nature interactions and a preschool program called Conservation Kids.

Not quite ready Uniquely Dayton 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 Jack n Jill’s Hill and at independentlyled Kindermusik and Music Together classes all around town. Several other local businesses offer preschool parent-child classes to meet a broad variety of interests and activity levels. Check out activitytree.com for an extensive list.

Independent spirit

When your preschooler has reached the point of handling an independent class while you catch a break (or work on that errand list), consider options like dance or gymnastics classes, where par-

There are several local preschool enrichment opportunities you simply can’t find anywhere else.

Take advantage of programs offered at uniquely Dayton places like the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery. Here, kids can participate in rotating, freewith-admission programs like “Lil’ Scientists.”

The Dayton Metro Library offers preschool story times at branch locations all over town as well as many preschooler activities you might not equate with the library experience. Check out programs at other Dayton institutions such as The Dayton Art Institute, where your preschooler can get creative at the Tiny Thursday art sessions.

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.

preschool enrichment guide OCTOBER 2014 [ dayton parent ] 11

Preschool Enrichment Guide

Interesting, exciting activities for young children can be found all over town – here are some options to get you started!

Art & Museum Programs DAYTON ART INSTITUTE

Creative preschoolers can express themselves while surrounded by the Institute’s excellent collection each week at the Tiny Thursdays class.

456 Belmonte Park N | Daytonartinstitute.org | (937) 223-4ART

Animals & Nature DAYTON AVIATION HERITAGE NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK

Nature Quest combines an immersive outdoor experience with a rich learning experience steeped in Dayton’s significant aviation contributions. Kids can also complete the Junior Ranger program.

Locations at Wright Patterson AFB and The Wright Cycle Company Complex | Nps.gov/ daav | (937) 225-7705

FIVE RIVERS METROPARKS

Check out the Children’s Discovery Garden at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, where it’s all about allowing kids to freely experience nature. Wegerzyn and many other MetroParks offer preschool nature programs like outdoor storytime and “Leave it to Beavers.”

Metroparks.org

DECOY ART

This colorful art studio offers a variety of classes for every age. Preschoolers can participate in the Child & Parent Art Class, where they will learn the basic fundamentals of art and work on fine motor skills.

1561 Grange Hall Rd, Beavercreek | Decoy-art. com | (937) 431-4838

K12 GALLERY

Preschool art lovers will enjoy dipping into a wide variety of art techniques at K12 – paint, pastels, charcoal, paper mache, clay collage and mixed media.

341 S Jefferson St. | K12gallery.com | (937) 4615149

PAINTBRUSH POTTERY

Kids will have as much fun selecting an exciting piece of pottery as they will painting it. Check the special events calendar for themed sessions like the upcoming Frozen event.

Registration required for some special events. Check for open studio hours.

255 W Central Ave, Springboro | Paintbrushpottery.com | (937)748-8707 12 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

Movement & Sports AQUA-TOTS SWIM SCHOOLS

Swimming lessons specifically geared toward kids in a bright, fun environment. Heated pools and a low student to teacher ratio make this a great place for beginners and progressing swimmers alike.

716 North Main Street, Springboro | Aquatotsdayton.com | (937) 886-4321

DAYTON HOCKEY ASSOCIATION

Children aged 4 to 9 can go on the ice before selected Dayton Stealth hockey games for Hockey 101, a hands on introduction to the sport.

Participants get to wear full gear.

Kettering Ice Arena, 2900 Glengarry Dr. | Daytonstealth.com | (937) 296-3224 ext. 4869

FIVE SEASONS SPORTS CLUB

Parents and preschoolers can select from a big variety of sports and movement classes including dance, gymnastics, agility and general fit-

ness classes. Five Seasons focuses on family fitness.

4242 Clyo Rd. | Fiveseasonssportsclub.com/ dayton | (937) 848-9200

HAND 2 HAND GYMNASTICS & CHEER

Preschoolers can participate in tumbling classes that take place in a dedicated preschool area featuring smaller equipment. The center also offers birthday party packages and open tumbling times.

270 Hiawatha Trail, Springboro | Hand2handgym.com | (937)-743-1466

JACK N JILL’S HILL KIDS GYM

This kid-focused fun spot features a host of movement classes including boys tumbling, a fundamentals of gymnastics class and special family classes. A unique class here is “One, Two, Buckle My Shoe,” which promotes decreased parental involvement as the class progresses.

705 Shroyer Rd. | jacknjillshillkidsgym.com | (937) 424-8600

MILE HIGH KARATE

Multi-age karate classes for your preschooler or the whole family. Mile High focuses on character building, leadership and communication skills in a safe environment.

51 E Spring Valley Rd, Centerville | Centervilleohiokarate.com | (937) 204-4257

SMILE A WHILE DANCE STUDIO

This self-described “fun loving, casual dance studio” features a wide range of dance classes for the preschool set. Little dancers will love the bright studio space and Miss Milea’s positive instruction.

941 E Franklin St, Centerville | Smileawhiledance.com | (937) 654-1830

Music & Performance BELLA MUSICA

Preschoolers and their caregivers will love the fun, positive approach at Bella Musica. Features a full service music store, kid-friendly music classes and instrument lessons, including ukulele for kids.

2240 E Central Ave, Suite 4, Miamisburg | Bellamusicadayton.com | (937) 865-6539

MCCUTCHEON MUSIC

A south Dayton mainstay for over 25 years, McCutcheon offers a full range of instrument lessons, music

classes for kids and families and a fully stocked music store. Check out Jim McCutcheon’s articles on music for kids, featured on the website – his philosophies are at the heart of McCutcheon Music.

44 Marco Lane, Centerville | Mccutcheonmusic. com | (937) 435-9877

TOWN HALL THEATRE

Theatre classes for kids boost confidence, academic skills and are just plain fun. Town Hall Theatre offers three options for preschoolers: a Mommy & Me class, Story Journey, which features imaginative play, and an intro to acting class. Don’t miss the theater’s upcoming musical, Freckleface Strawberry.

27 North Main Street, Centerville | www.Washingtontwp.org/recreation/theatre | (937) 4338957

Various BOONSHOFT MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY

This popular kid destination offers several programs aimed at the preschool set. Try “Lil’ Scientists,” a free-with-admission program that takes place on most weekday mornings.

2600 DeWeese Parkway | Boonshoftmuseum. org | (937) 275-7431

GRASS ROOTS ENRICHMENT & WELLNESS CENTER

Featuring preschool enrichment programs like Grass Roots Kids and special Saturday workshops, the Center is focused on kids and families. The mission here is “emphasizing a love of our planet, natural health and wellness, and giving our children the enrichment opportunities to be their best selves today, and make a better world tomorrow.”

400 E. Fifth St, Suite C | Grassrootsenrichment. com | (937) 723-6747

DAYTON METRO LIBRARY

Go beyond storytime and take advantage of the many preschoolappropriate offerings at your local library branch. Don’t miss the music and movement Preschool Explorers program.

Various branch locations | Daytonmetrolibrary. org | (937) 463-2665

OCTOBER 2014 [ dayton parent ] 13

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

Steffy McCourt

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

–L.M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

In Ohio, October lays itself down like a well-loved quilt, bringing friends and family closer together as the leaves and the 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 stroll through Peifer Orchards in Yellow Springs to pick apples and enjoy a cup of fresh pressed cider. Besides one amazing cup of cider, Peifer’s is also known for their peaches. Check out the Orchard House Gift Shop for an assortment of baked goods, Ohio maple syrup, slateware, pottery and hand crafted items.

For a more grown-up version of fall fun, head over to Rumble Seat Wine and enjoy wine tasting, wine education and craft beer. In its fifth year, Rumbleseat offers wine tasting daily. Check out their website to sign up for the next wine, winery or wine making class!

Grab your lederhosen and make your way to the 45th Ohio Sauerkraut Festival in Waynesville on October 11th. This festival is considered one of the premier craft festivals in the nation with over 450 vendors and 350,000 visitors each year. They also serve seven tons of sauerkraut!

Come for the sauerkraut pizza and sauerkraut fudge.

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When it’s time to find the perfect pumpkin, head to Tuken’s Orchard and Farm Market, where families can find a great selection of apples, pumpkins, indian corn and gourds.

Kids can visit with Tuken the dog, as well as Bertie and Gertie the geese and other farm animals in the “Critter Corral.”

For a moo-ving experience, gather your family and head over to Young’s Jersey Dairy. Besides the incredible pumpkin patch and haunted hay wagon rides every weekend in October, there is a petting farm, miniature golf, corn maze, ten-passenger train, giant slide and batting cage. And don’t leave before trying the Buckeye Milkshake.

With parties, candy and costumes, what’s not to love about Halloween?

At the National Museum of the U. S. Air Force, Dayton families celebrate both Halloween and our city’s contribution to aviation. On Saturday, October 18th, kids can visit the museum in costume for an afternoon full of family-friendly events, including a Halloween-themed story time and aerospace demonstrations.

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, visit The Midwest Outdoor Experience, a festival for the “budding weekend warrior to the hardcore outdoor enthusiast.”

Visitors will be able to try slacklining, climbing, kayaking, canoeing, geocaching, disc golf, fly-fishing, skateboarding, snow tubing and much more. This all takes place at Eastwood Metro Park on October 3rd and October 4th.

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

VICTORIA THEATRE

RIVERSIDE JAYCEES

OCTOBER 2014 [ dayton parent ] 15

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step-parent. Don’t take it personally,” says Betty Smith, a marriage and family therapist in private practice in Dayton. “This is completely normal. It’s important to allow the child to respond their own way and to allow them to set the pace for their relationship with the new step-parent.”

FORMING A RELATIONSHIP

Rather than expecting an instant bond with your new step-child, give the relationship time to grow naturally. It can be tricky to remember that your role, in most cases, is not to replace your step-child’s biological parent. Take things slowly and plan activities the family can do together to strengthen connections.

DISCUSSING ROLES AND BOUNDARIES

STEPPING INTO STEP-PARENTING Suggestions for navigating this new territory | Megan Noel

THE 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.

EASING THE TRANSITION

If children are moving between two different households, with new stepparents (and possibly new step-siblings), 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.

“Most children will have some difficulty with the transition to a new family structure that involves a new

Ideally, you and your new spouse have discussed how you envision your role as a new step-parent before you have been cast in the position. Visit this subject often to make sure you both have a clear understanding of what expectations and boundaries you have. Be sure to establish open communication with your step-children as well, as you both find your way in this new situation. “The trick is to find age appropriate boundaries that both child and step-parent are comfortable with,” says Smith.

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 is 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 rewards can be great as well. 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 Dayton Parent Facebook readers who were step-parents for their advice to those new to the role.

Here’s what they had to say: The younger the child, the more you have to actually LOVE them.

Not tolerate them, actually love them. It’s not fair to anyone involved if you can’t accept them.

– Adrienne G.

Decide early what role each parent will play. Back up the natural parent while respecting boundaries.

– Amy S.

Try to treat them (step-children) as you would your own. Don’t single them out from your other kids.

Don’t take anything that the child(ren) or other bio-parent says Be fair and consistent. – Maria A. to heart. Also don’t take most of what your spouse says to heart.

Remember that you’re marrying More than likely they are dealing into a FAMILY, not just your new with absent-parent guilt and will spouse. – Kelly R. take it out on you. – Kati E. OCTOBER 2014 [ dayton parent ] 17

FELD ENTE

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ERTAINMENT

OCTOBER 2014 [ dayton parent ] 19

A guide to breast cancer screening and early detection Michelle Shirk

breast test breakdown 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!

20 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

We talked to Sheila S. Manion, M.D., Director of Women’s Imaging at Kettering Health Network, about some of the screening options available to women today. Read on to learn about six of the most popular tools for early detection of breast cancer.

breast self-exam

What is it? As the name implies, a self-exam involves a woman looking at and feeling her own breasts, searching for lumps, ridges and areas of tenderness.

Who should consider it? Dr. Manion believes all women should learn to do breast self-exams. You can find a detailed guide to performing this type of examination at www.cancer. org.

What else should women know?

A task force recommended against self-exams in 2009. However, Dr. Manion and other breast care experts believe this screening technique should not be abandoned.

“Many, many, many times we see that patients will be able to pick up changes that are very important,” she says.

clinical breast exam

What is it? A clinical breast exam is a physical examination of the breasts performed by a medical provider such as a primary care doctor, nurse practitioner or OB/GYN. Who should consider it? The American Cancer Society recommends all women age 40 and over receive an annual clinical breast exam, while women in their 20s and 30s need

one approximately once every three years.

What else should women know? Because clinical exams are performed by trained professionals, they can reveal abnormalities that would not be noticed on self-exam, says Dr. Manion. However, further testing often reveals these findings to be “false alarms,” such as benign cysts or cyclical changes in the breast.

genetic testing

What is it? A lab test is run using the patient’s blood or saliva. The test searches for genetic deformities of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.

Women with these mutations have a dramatically increased lifetime risk of getting breast and ovarian cancer, says Dr. Manion.

Who should consider it? Visit www.bracnow.com for a series of questions that will help you begin to assess your breast cancer risk and determine whether you might be a candidate for genetic testing.

What else should women know? Genetic testing helps physicians identify women who are at high risk and come up with screening programs tailored to their needs.

mammogram

What is it? During a routine examination, a mammography machine compresses each of the woman’s breasts into two different positions to allow pictures to be taken.

Who should consider it? Women should receive a “baseline” mammogram between the ages of 35 and 40, then annual mammograms after age 40, says Dr. Manion. High risk patients may need to begin testing earlier and/or use a combination of screening methods.

What else should women know? Approximately 20% of cancers can’t be seen by mammogram, says Dr. Manion. Mammograms may be less effective for women with dense breast tissue.

screening breast ultrasound What is it? During an ultrasound, a technologist applies gel to the skin, then moves a transducer over the breast. Images of the breasts are taken using sound waves.

Who should consider it? Some physicians now order ultrasound as a screening test. Dr. Manion recommends women who know they have dense breast tissue or other risk factors ask their doctors about this option.

What else should women know? “Ultrasound is very good because while it can’t see calcifications well, it does see masses well and it sees through dense breast tissue,” says Dr. Manion.

mri

What is it? During an MRI examination, the patient must lie on her stomach in a “tunnel.” Contrast dye is injected to help doctors detect potential abnormalities.

Who should consider it? Annual MRIs are recommended for women who have a BRCA mutation, Ashkenazi Jewish heritage or various other risk factors.

What else should women know? MRI is a highly sensitive test, says Dr. Manion. However, the procedure can be difficult for patients who suffer from claustrophobia, and the contrast dye carries a risk of allergic reaction.

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!

additional sources: www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/moreinformation/breastcancerearlydetection/breast-cancer-earlydetection-acs-recs-clinical-breast-exam www.bcrfcure.org/breast-cancer-statistics-resources www.cancer.org/cancer/news/news/acs-advisesmris-for-some-at-high-risk-of-breast-cancer www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/moreinformation/breastcancerearlydetection/breast-cancer-earlydetection-acs-recs-bse

OCTOBER 2014 [ dayton parent ] 21

confessions of a stay-at-home dad

The End of Diaper Bags, Infant Car Seats and Strollers

True confessions of a stay-at-home dad

By Pete Gilbert

P

arenting 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.

22 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

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!

Stop by Facebook and “Like” my “True Confessions of a Stay at Home Dad” page for daily updates and links to all my blogs and columns.

footnotes

Footnotes: Thoughts from the margins of a mom’s life Crossing our T’s

By Kelly Blewett

L

ast 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?” “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 left-hand 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.

BALLOON COWGIRL

OCTOBER 2014 [ dayton parent ] 23

ask the teacher

Ask the Teacher

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

By Deb Krupowicz

A

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.

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?

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.

Look over the entire assignment with your daughter to be sure that she understands the concepts covered – paying close attention to

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.

A

24 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

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.

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.

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.

Q

My fifth grade son is convinced that his teacher does not like him. What should I

ask the teacher

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 conversation 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.

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@daytonparentmagazine.com.

OCTOBER 2014 [ dayton parent ] 25

26 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

The Modern Military Parent

the modern military parent

“Brown Out“

By Molly Blake

B

EIGE, BEIGE, BEIGE. THAT’S ALL I SEE. MY COUCH IS BEIGE. MY LIVING ROOM CHAIRS ARE A SLIGHTLY DARKER SHADE OF BEIGE. OUR BEDROOM SET IS BEIGE. MY CAR IS EVEN BEIGE. WHY? BECAUSE MY HUSBAND AND I HAVE CONSISTENTLY BOUGHT BROWNISH FURNITURE THAT WOULD FIT SEAMLESSLY INTO ALL THE PLACES WE’VE LIVED – INCLUDING KANSAS, MISSISSIPPI, FLORIDA, ARIZONA AND VIRGINIA. WE’VE OCCUPIED A SMALL KANSAS CHARMER BUILT IN THE 1800’S, A CONDO CONSTRUCTED IN THE 80’S, A STUCCO SOUTHWESTERN STYLE THREE-BEDROOM IN ARIZONA AND A 60’S INSPIRED EICHLER DESIGNED RANCH HOME IN CALIFORNIA. AN ECLECTIC LINEUP THAT DEMANDED NEUTRAL COLORS.

But despite these great lumps of brown, every time I move into a house I decorate with gusto. I hang art. I slap magnets and photos on the refrigerator. I find the perfect spot for our quirky metal artsy cactus, patched together from pieces of reclaimed oil drums. I hang the round metal red and gold plates my husband picked up while deployed to Mumbai and set out the pottery gifts from days when I was a Key Volunteer and COW (that’s Commanding Officer’s Wife and it’s a term of endearment). My husband hangs, of course, various USMC deployment plaques, aircraft lithographs and other man cave art. And for at least one afternoon, the place is perfect and worthy of any Houzz eye candy ideabook. After that, life interrupts the orderliness and serenity and that’s when I know I’m home.

Making a house a home, even with little splashes of personality, can make all the difference in your living situation, especially if it’s less than ideal. Part of being a military family is being told where home is – and you may not always be living in your dream home in your dream city.

My friend Jen Hatzung, a Navy wife, Navy daughter and serial Pinterester, said she and her husband were once stuck living in a hotel room in Florida for weeks while they were waiting for their house to be ready.

Even then she added a personal touch. “I bought a vintage quilt while antiquing in Alabama that brought major color to the drab living room,” she says.

So what can you do to spruce up your base house, the temporary condo or the rental place that’s not your forever home?

•

•

•

Hit the thrift stores and grab some mid-century modern pieces. Jazz them up by painting them sage or tomato. Don’t worry if they aren’t flawless. Embrace the imperfections and use it as a conversation starter.

Check out temporary peel-andstick wallpaper and/or decorative wall art available through home-based businesses, craft stores and online sites.

The handmade marketplace, Etsy, has a Military Wives Team so you can easily browse their rad artwork, door hangers and other fun patriotic-inspired goods.

Remember that most landlords want renters to treat a property as if it were a well-loved home, but make sure you get permission before making any major decisions on decor.

Painting a room or hanging window treatments may sound non-invasive

but it’s always good to get the okay in writing. Use professional materials and use good practices for any drilling or hammering.

Years ago, when my grandmother Helen died, I asked to take one special thing from her Minneapolis, Minnesota home. I grabbed a small wooden plaque, yellowed with age, that I always thought summed up that very special house where I created so many memories.

It reads: “Dull people have immaculate houses.” And in my house, a rental located on Moreno Avenue, it’s hung up in a prominent spot.

(Moreno, incidentally, means brown in Spanish.)

Molly Blake is a freelance writer. Her husband recently retired after serving 20 years in the United States Marine Corps. She attended the University of Dayton and writes about issues affecting military families and other parenting issues. Follow her on twitter @mblakewrites.

OCTOBER 2014 [ dayton parent ] 27

FIVE SEASONS

28 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

WAYNESVILLE FESTIVAL

safe halloween costume tips

Safe Halloween Costume Tips Don’t risk avoidable injuries on this spooky night!

Dayton Children’s Hospital Dr. Mom Squad

5 “MAKE IT” TIPS FOR A SAFE COSTUME 1. MAKE IT FIT. The outfit, including shoes, should fit the child appropriately so that he or she can move around safely. Avoid anything too long which could cause kids to trip.

2. MAKE IT FLAME-RETARDANT. Avoid anything too loose which could be a fire hazard as they walk around or get caught in bushes or shrubs. Don’t buy a costume unless it’s labeled “flame-retardant.”

This means the material won’t burn.

3. MAKE IT VISIBLE. Choose a light-colored costume, attach something reflective to their costume or allow them to wear or carry a flashlight or glow stick to increase visibility to motorists.

4. MAKE IT EASY FOR KIDS TO SEE.

H

ALLOWEEN IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER, AND WHETHER YOUR CHILD WANTS TO BE A PRINCESS, GHOST OR GOBLIN, AS THEIR PARENT YOU WANT TO MAKE SURE THEIR COSTUME IS SAFE.

“Halloween is an exciting time for families,” says Melissa King, DO, medical director of Dayton Children’s urgent care and Dr. Mom Squad blogger. “You and your kids will enjoy the holiday even more knowing they are avoiding preventable injuries thanks to a safe costume!”

Choose face paint and makeup when possible instead of masks which can obstruct a child’s vision. Look for face paint that is nontoxic and designed for skin. Consider a trial of the face paint on your child’s forearm or leg a few days before to monitor for an allergic reaction. Avoid the area around the eyes.

Remember; do not leave the paint on overnight. Also, avoid decorative contact lenses.

5. MAKE IT BREATHABLE. Make sure wigs and beards don’t cover the eyes, nose, or mouth making it difficult to breathe or see.

For more Halloween safety tips visit the Dayton Children’s blog at blog.childrensdayton. org.

OCTOBER 2014 [ dayton parent ] 29

TUKENS ORCHARD

30 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

FaLL

FUN guide Brumbaugh Fruit and Fun Farm 6420 Arcanum Hollansburg Rd., Arcanum, OH 45304 | 937-692-8084 | www.brumbaughfruitfarm.com Come experience fall fun at its best! Get lost in the Kinda Kooky Korn Maze, take a ride on the Willy Worm Wagon Express, feed the animals in the Enchanted Goat Fort, dig through the corn sand box, slide down the 40 foot tunnel and scare yourself on the Billy Bees Flight O Fun!

Fall Farm Family Fun at Young’s 6880 Springfield Xenia Rd., Yellow Springs, OH 45387 | 937-325-0629 | www.youngsdairy.com Fall Farm Family Fun at Young’s – Pick Your Own Pumpkins, Pumpkin Ice Cream, Donut Holes, Homemade Pies, Pumpkin Bread, Cowvin’s Corny Maze, Haunted Wagon Ride, Cinnamon Ice Cream, Farm Animals, Two Restaurants, Miniature Golf, Farmstead Cheese.

Five Rivers MetroParks Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, Children’s Discovery Garden, 1301 E., Dayton, OH 45402 | 937-760-1506 | Friday, Oct. 24, 6:00-8:00 PM | www.metroparks.org/Parks/WegerzynGarden/ Programs.aspx | Admission Price: FREE Bring the family to visit the gardens as the sun sets to enjoy cider by the fire, ghost stories and fun seasonal games and crafts. Learn about fall and winter veggies, prairie seeding, creatures of the garden and more. Costumes are encouraged! Registration requested, walk-ins welcome. All ages welcome.

Halloween Extravaganza at The Mall at Fairfield Commons 2727 Fairfield Commons Rd., Beavercreek, OH 45431 | 937-427-9031 | October 31, 10:00am 12:00pm | www.mallatfairfieldcommons.com Costumes, Magic, Goodie Bags and More! Join us for our Halloween Extravaganza in Center Court on October 31st! Kids of all ages will en

joy Stephen Knight’s Magic Show at 10:30am.

Then stick around for pictures with our special guests, a chance to win fun prizes and much more!

Marmon Valley Farm 7754 St Rt 292, Zanesfield, OH 43360 | 937593-8000 | October 4th 1-4PM | marmonvalley. com | Admission Price: $5-$12 Come experience fall on the Farm at Marmon Valley! Every weekend in October, enjoy wagon rides, pony rides, hay tunnels, farm animals, and more! During our Fall Farm Festival, make even more memories with indoor rock climbing, archery, leather crafts, and pumpkin painting.

Pinot’s Palette 2826 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd., Dayton, OH 45459 | www.pinotspalette.com/miamisburg | $35.00-$45.00 Paint and wine parties are open to everyone and are perfect for your Girls’ Night Out, Date Night, or just a fun night out with friends. It’s the perfect way to get together for a night to celebrate a Birthday, Bachelorette Party, Anniversary, Corporate Event, or any celebration.

Riverside Jaycees Haunted Castle of Carnage and Trail 1213 Old Harshman Rd., Riverside, OH 45431 | 937-254-2576 | Friday and Saturdays dusk to midnight. Sundays dusk to 10pm | www.riverside-jaycees.com | Admission Price: $12 Scaring the YELL out of you since 1986 as

one of the longest running haunts in the area.

100% run by volunteers and all proceeds go back to the community! Free parking and includes 2 attractions.

Sizemore’s Farm

7603 Upper Miamisburg Rd., Miamisburg, OH 45342 | 937-847-2760 | Daily 10am-8pm Dragon wagon rides, family hayrides, photo ops and pumpkins!

Tuken’s Orchard and Farm Market 15725 Eaton Pike, West Alexandria, OH 45381 | 937-687-3848 | www.tukensfarmmarket.com | $5.00 pp for hayrides (children 3 and under are free) Enjoy apple picking with fruit low to the ground so toddlers can pick their own fruit, homemade ice cream and apple cider slushies, a pumpkin farm, critter corral and delicious fresh market this fall season at Tuken’s! Hay rides are available weekends in Sept. and Oct. from 12pm3pm.

OCTOBER 2014 [ dayton parent ] 31

calendar october calendar

// OCTOBER 2014

FRIDAY | 03

Kids Night In (AKA Parents Night Out!)

Price: $20 per student, $18 with sibling | Phone: 937-431-4838 | Location: Decoy Art Studio. 1561 Grange Hall Rd., Beavercreek | www.decoy-art.com

Perfect date night as the kids stay in at Decoy Art Studio creating, imagining and having a good ‘ole time meeting new friends. Includes all materials and pizza. October 3 theme: Ghosts and Ghouls: Paranorman.

Harvest Moon & Balloon Fest

Price: $5.00 per person | Location: Miami County Fairgrounds. 650 N. County Rd., Troy| www.miamicountyohiofair.com/balloonfest_ schedule

The Miami County Agricultural Society and the Troy Foundation will be hosting the 2nd Annual Miami County Harvest Moon and Balloon Fest. This event will take place October 3, 4 & 5, 2014 at the Miami County Fairgrounds, and will feature 10 colorful Hot Air Balloons, as well as activities commemorating everything autumn.

SATURDAY | 04

Dayton Metro Library Book Sale

Phone: 937-278-4776 | Location: Hara Arena.

1001 Shiloh Springs Rd., Dayton | www.daytonmetrolibrary.org/

Thousands of hardbacks, paperbacks, books for children, books for adults, audio cassettes, CDs, videos and more, all at bargain basement prices. This sale also features a number of military history books and some used library furniture as well, including tables, desks and chairs. All proceeds benefit the Friends of the Dayton Metro Library.

Operation Pumpkin

Location: Downtown Hamilton. 101 High Street, Hamilton | www.operation-pumpkin. org

Ohio is one of the largest pumpkin growing states in the world and is home to a large number of giant pump-

32 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

kin growers. This year features a giant pumpkin weigh-off, a giant pumpkin carving contest and a giant pumpkin regatta, petting zoo, amusement rides, live entertainment, food vendors, 5K event -- and let’s not forget the pumpkin pie eating contest!

SUNDAY | 05

Heritage of Flight Festival

Location: Downtown Carlisle. Main Street, New Carlisle | www.heritageofflight.com

Held the first weekend in October, the Heritage of Flight Festival boasts an impressive array of events and activities on Main Street in beautiful New Carlisle, Ohio.

38th Annual Fall Farm Pumpkin Festival

Phone: (937) 325-0629 | Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy. 6880 Springfield Xenia Rd, Yellow Springs | youngsdairy.com/pumpkin-festival/

Plan to attend our Annual Fall Farm Pumpkin Festival. This family fun event is our most popular event of the year.

We have many fun family activities planned for this weekend! If you enjoy farm animals, homemade ice cream, good food, thousands of pumpkins, and friendly conversation, Young’s is the place to be!

SATURDAY | 11

Super Saturday Family Days at Dayton Art Institute

Price: $5 members; $10 non-members; $2 each additional child | Phone: 937-223-4278 | Location: Dayton Art Institute. 456 Belmonte Park North, Dayton | www.daytonartinstitute. org/event/super-saturday-family-day-1

October 11: Fabric Frolic Create wearable artwork with artist Deborah Brod, whose work will be on view in the Experiencenter later in the fall. She will teach you fun, innovative fabric dyeing techniques.

Try a Truck in Beavercreek!

Price: free | Phone: 937-426-1213 | Location: Beavercreek Township Fire Department.

851-A Orchard Lane, Beavercreek | www.

daytonlocal.com/things-to-do/try-a-truck-inbeavercreek.asp

The Beavercreek Township Fire Department will host their annual Fire Prevention Open House on Saturday, October 11. Check out a variety of trucks and vehicles including snow plows, a school bus, front loader, police cars, and fire trucks.

SUNDAY | 12

PhilharMonster Halloween Concert

Price: Adult: $22; Senior/Educator/Military: $20; Student/Child: $12 | Phone: (937) 2287591 | Location: Schuster Center. 1 W 2nd St., Dayton | www.daytonlocal.com/things-to-do/ kids/philharmonster-halloween-concert.asp

The DPO kicks off the 2014-2015 Family Series by presenting its legendary PhilharMonster Halloween Concert almost three weeks before Halloween! Activities for kids of all ages begin at 2 p.m. in the Wintergarden of the Schuster Center. Enjoy crafts, an instrument petting zoo, and the DPO’s annual costume contest.

FRIDAY | 17

Cupcakes and Canvases

Price: $18 per artist, or $15 with a friend | Phone: 937-431-4838 Location: Decoy Art Studio. 1561 Grange Hall Rd., Beavercreek | www.decoy-art.com

We will walk little artists through the process of painting their own canvas with a sweet surprise after the masterpiece is complete! October 17 theme: Creepy Crawlies. Grades 1-6 welcome.

Family Days: Spooktacular Aerospace Fun

Price: free | Phone: (937) 255-4646 | Location: National Museum of the United States Air Force. 1100 Spaatz St. Wright-Patterson AFB, Dayton | www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/education/family/index.asp

Celebrate Halloween at the National Museum of the US Air Force by learning fun aerospace principles through Halloween-themed activities. Come dressed in your favorite costume!

Halloween Howl

Price: $5 per family | Phone: 937-296-2587 | Location: Kettering Recreation Complex.

2900 Glengarry Dr., Kettering | www.ketteringoh.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/2014_ fall_activities_guide.pdf

Enjoy a morning of Halloween fun for preschoolers and family. The morning will include games, crafts, an inflatable and much more. This is sure to be a fun alternative way to celebrate Halloween.

Ages 2-6.

WEDNESDAY | 22

Disney on Ice Presents Princesses and Heroes

October 22-26 | Price: Tickets range from $15 to $56; Children under 2: free | Phone: (937) 775-3498 | Location: Wright State University Nutter Center. 3640 Colonel Glenn Highway, Dayton | www.nuttercenter.com/details.aspx ?EventID=631963&WebLink=1D.3BC1E689&x ml_path=undefined

SATURDAY | 18

Enter a world of wonder where heroes and hearts prevail. Features favorite characters from The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Frozen, Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, and more! High-flying jumps, daring acrobatics, breathtaking skating and lovable Disney friends are just a wish away!

Price: varies | Phone: (937) 229-4433 | Location: Welcome Stadium. 1601 S Edwin C Moses Blvd, Dayton | www.daytonflyers.com/calendar.aspx

FRIDAY | 24

Dayton Flyers vs. Morehead State

Free Fridays at the Cincinnati Museum Center

Price: free Phone: (513) 287-7000 | Location: Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.

1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati | www.cincymuseum.org/events/free-fridays

october calendar Visit Duke Energy Children’s Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science and Cincinnati History Museum free of charge from 4 to 8 p.m. on June 13, July 11, Aug.1, Sept. 12 and Oct. 24!

Franklin’s FallFest

Price: Admission free; events vary | Phone: (937)746-9921 | Location: Downtown Franklin. 1 Benjamin Franklin Way, Franklin | www. franklinohio.org/community/events-activities/franklin-s-fallfest

Celebrate fall in Franklin, with pumpkin roll, petting zoo, movies, rides, crafts, and more! Register for special events such as the pumpkin pie eating contest, cutest baby pageant, and costume competition!

SATURDAY | 25 Batfest

Price: free with admission | Phone: (513) 2877000 | Location: Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati | www.cincymuseum.org/events/batfest

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!

Spooki Swim and Skate Event

Price: $10/residents; $15/non-residents | Phone: 937-296-2587 | Location: Kettering

Recreation Complex. 2900 Glengarry Dr., Kettering | www.ketteringoh.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/2014_fall_activities_guide.pdf

Join us for the most fun and unique Halloween party you will ever attend. You will have a great time doing many fun activities: ice skating, trick or treating, costume contests, and swimming. Prizes awarded for best costumes.

Batfest Overnight

Price: $30 per person | Phone: 513-287-7021 | Location: Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati | www.cincymuseum.org/programs/ overnights#batfest

Cincinnati Museum Center goes batty during this overnight that ties into our annual BatFest event. Learn about the connection between bats and caves, make bat themed crafts and play fun games! Recommended ages: 6-14.

Pumpkinliner

Price: $10 for ages two and up; includes a pumpkin for ages 12 and under | Phone: 765825-2054 | Location: Whitewater Valley Railroad. P.O. Box 406, Connersville | www.tickets. whitewatervalleyrr.org/events/view/39

Bring the family out for a afternoon of fun. Enjoy a round trip from our Connersville Grand Central Station to the pumpkin patch. Your train ticket includes round trip train service, a hay ride to and from the patch, and a pumpkin for each child 12 and under.

SUNDAY | 26

Disney on Ice Presents Princesses and Heroes

October 22-26 |Price: Tickets range from $15 to $56; Children under 2: free | Phone: (937) 775-3498 | Location: Wright State University Nutter Center. 3640 Colonel Glenn Highway, Dayton | www.nuttercenter.com/details.aspx ?EventID=631963&WebLink=1D.3BC1E689&x ml_path=undefined

Enter a world of wonder where heroes and hearts prevail. Features favorite characters from The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Frozen, Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, and more! High-flying jumps, daring acrobatics, breathtaking skating and lovable Disney friends are just a wish away!

Pumpkinliner

(Shows run on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday beginning Friday, October 17 through Sunday, October 26) Price: Adults - $15, Seniors & Students - $13, Under 12 - $10 Phone: 937-4338957 | Location: Town Hall Theatre. 27 N. Main Street, Centerville | www.washingtontwp.org/ recreation/theatre/productions/landmark-theatre/freckle-face-strawberry

Freckleface Strawberry has a bad case of the freckles. She’s tried everything -soap, make-up, even wearing a ski mask to school -- but they just won’t disappear. Will she find the courage to face her own complexion? Find out as this little red-head learns that everyone is different; and that’s what makes each of us special. Ages 4 and up. Approximate running time: 70 minutes.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

(Shows daily October 21- 26) Price: $25-$97 | Phone: (937) 228-3630 Location: Mead Theatre - Schuster Center. 1 W 2nd St., Dayton | www. victoriatheatre.com/shows/joseph-and-theamazing-technicolor-dreamcoat

One of the most enduring shows of all time, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT is the irresistible family musical about the trials and triumphs of Joseph, Israel’s favorite son. Ages 6 and up.

Get Outside Book Club

(Occurring daily through October 31) Phone: 937-277-6545 | Location: Dayton Metro Library. 215 E. Third Street, Dayton | www. m e t r o p a r k s .o r g /G e t O u t s i d e / B o o k C l u b . aspx?id=2010redirect

The Get Outside Book Club is a Dayton

The Wright Stuff: First in Flight

Price: $5 | Phone: (937) 228-3630 | Location: Victoria Theatre. 138 North Main St., Dayton | www.victoriatheatre.com/shows/the-wrightstuff-first-in-flight

Barely out of their teens, two plucky bicycle mechanics team up with their studious sister to out-invent the world’s top scientists and achieve the timeless dream of flight. From their tiny workshop in Dayton, Ohio, Orville and Wilbur Wright travel to North Carolina and launch the first powered, sustained and controlled flight of an airplane, changing the world forever. Grades 2-8.

Transylvania Time Warp: The Music of Rocky Horror

Price: $10 for ages two and up; includes a pumpkin for ages 12 and under | Phone: 765825-2054 | Location: Whitewater Valley Railroad. P.O. Box 406, Connersville | www.tickets. whitewatervalleyrr.org/events/view/39

Price: Tickets range from $15-$35 | Phone: (937) 228-3630 | Location: Mead Theatre - Schuster Center. 1 W 2nd St., Dayton | www.daytonperformingarts.org/content. jsp?articleId=3395

Bring the family out for a afternoon of fun. Enjoy a round trip from our Connersville Grand Central Station to the pumpkin patch. Your train ticket includes round trip train service, a hay ride to and from the patch, and a pumpkin for each child 12 and under.

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind Halloween treat as orchestra and rock band combine forces to focus on the music from the Rocky Horror phenomenon.

Not a movie or stage show, but a full-tilt concert reprising the hits from Rocky Horror, this is the first Rocky Horror rock concert to be performed anywhere!

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Metro Library and Five Rivers MetroParks program designed for preschoolers and their parents. This special reading club for preschoolers includes stories that will kick-start imaginations and get you and your little one outside exploring and discovering. Participants can sign up anytime after August 23 and are asked to complete 6 books and 6 activities from the book club list.

Tavern Dinners: Harvest Feast

(Fridays and Saturdays from October 3 through October 18) Price: $45 members, $50 nonmembers | Phone: 937-293-2841 | Location: Carillon Historical Park. 1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton | www.daytonhistory.org/event/

Enjoy an authentic hearth cooked meal in the 18th century Newcom Tavern. Sit back and watch hands-on demonstrations such as musket shooting, ice cream churning, and making apple pomanders.

Complete the evening with live enter-

tainment such as minstrels, dramatic performances, and magicians.

Jack O’Lantern Junction

(Open daily September 27-November 2) Price: Included with Do-It-All Admission | Phone: 513-898-8000 | Location: EnterTRAINment Junction. 7379 Squire Court, West Chester | www.entertrainmentjunction.com/cincinnati_entertainment_and_attractions_calendar

First walk-thru our trick or treat maze and see kid friendly ghosts, skeleton, and more. Come and enjoy the area’s only indoor Pumpkin Patch, where kids get a free mini pumpkin. Also open this year are our two outdoor kid’s train rides themed for the Halloween season -- it’s Halloween fun for the whole family!

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Pumpkin Patch Express

Occurring every Saturday and Sunday October 4-26) Price: Adults: $18.50; Seniors (62+): $15.50; Children (5-16): $15.50; Toddlers (2-4): $8.50; Infants (1 yr. & under): FREE | Phone: 513-933-8022, Ext. 101 | Location: LM&M Railroad. 127 S. Mechanic St., Lebanon | www.lebanonrr.com/pumpkin.html

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 of your very own! Ride and visit are 2 hours and 45 minutes long.

Pick Your Own Pumpkins

(Occurring daily from September 20 through October 19) Phone: (937) 325-0629 | Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy. 6880 Springfield Xenia Rd, Yellow Springs | youngsdairy.com/pyo-pumpkin/

Every year we prepare one of our fields for pumpkins. We have had some outstanding pumpkins grown here over the past several years, and we look forward to another good crop this year!

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Tom’s Maze & Pumpkin Farm

Cowvin’s Corny Maze

Ohio Renaissance Festival

Price: $8.00; children 5 and under: free with paying adult | Phone: (937) 866-2777| Location: Tom’s Maze & Pumpkin Farm. 4677 Germantown-Liberty Road, Germantown | www. tomsmaze.com

Price: $5.00 per person age 5 and older. Age 4 & under are free! | Phone: 937-325-0629 | Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy. 6880 Springfield Xenia Rd, Yellow Springs | www.youngsdairy. com/cowvins-corny-maze/

Price: Adults $21.95; Children $9.95 (ages 5-12); Children under 5 FREE | Phone: 513.897.7000 | Location: Renaissance Park. State Route 73, Harveysburg | www.renfestival.com

Don’t settle for a cookie-cutter corn MAZE that only looks good from the air but leaves little to the imagination on the ground! Enjoy our 8-acre Maze Game, Farm Animal Display, Labyrinth, Color Sequence Maze and more!

Cowvin, the baby of the Cow Family, has created a family fun maze at Young’s Jersey Dairy. The maze is created from over 150,000 square feet (more than 3 acres) of cornfield and has over one mile of paths. Get ready to begin your maze adventure!

(Open every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday September 12 - November 2)

Haunted Wagon Rides

(Fridays and Saturdays October 3-31) Price: $10 for adults and children ages 5 and older. Ages four and under are $4. | Phone: (937) 325-0629 | Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy. 6880 Springfield Xenia Rd, Yellow Springs| www.youngsdairy.com/haunted/

Things are going to get a little scary around Young’s this fall! Our Haunted Wagon Ride and Scary Stories are designed for families with children. It will be scary!

(Open every Saturday and Sunday September 6 - October 26)

HallZOOween

(Happening every Saturday and Sunday from September 6 until October 19).

Visitors will see a full day of entertainment including full-armored jousting the way it was done over 400 years ago by real knights in shining armor. Queen Elizabeth I presides over the festivities as dozens of Renaissance musicians, dancers, comedians, jugglers, sword-fighters, storytellers and hundreds of costumed performers entertain patrons of all ages on 11 stages in nearly 100 shows daily!

(Saturdays and Sundays October 4-26) Price: free with admission | Phone: (513) 2814700 | Location: The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati | www. cincinnatizoo.org/events/hallzooween

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Always hairy, never scary! You and your family can enjoy: Trick-or-Treat stations, special animal encounters, Hogwarts Express train rides, and more! Costumes encouraged, but not required.

At Dayton 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.

FOR MORE FUN IDEAS, VISIT

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