1015 cp issuu

Cincinnati

O C TO B E R 2015 // FREE

Serving Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky Parents

autumn happenings SO MUCH TO DO WITH YOUR FAMILY THIS FALL!

TEENS TIED TO TECH GETTING KIDS TO DISENGAGE FROM SCREENS

{INSIDE}

PRIVATE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE

WHAT'S HOT FOR TOTS PRESCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS FOR YOUR LITTLE LEARNER

IN EVERY ISSUE

CONTENTS O C T O B E R 2 0 1 5 // C I N C I N N A T I P A R E N T . C O M

23

32

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

The mommy buffer

14

A DAD INFLUENCE

Jogging strollers: fantasy vs. reality

38

36

ASK THE TEACHER Bullying programs, math facts, grammar problems

FA M I LY H E A LT H

21

A CULTURAL SHIFT Moms and daughters experience life changes together

26

GROW I N G H E A LT H Y FAMILIES

44

THE POSITIVE SIDE OF PEER PRESSURE How the influence of classmates can be a good thing

IN THIS ISSUE

16

5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT BREAST HEALTH Increase your knowledge to reduce your risk

18

IN EVERY ISSUE

06

EDITOR’S NOTE

08

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

10

ONLINE BUZZ

WHAT’S HOT FOR TOTS Preschool enrichment programs for your little learner

23

AUTUMN HAPPENINGS

28

HOW WELL DO YOU REALLY KNOW YOUR TEEN?

So much to do with your family this fall!

RESOURCES & CALENDARS

26

FALL FUN GUIDE

34

OPEN HOUSE GUIDE

40

PRESCHOOL & EDUCATION GUIDE

46

DAILY EVENTS

53

ONGOING EVENTS

54

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

59

FUN & WACKY CALENDAR

Take this quiz to find out!

04

32

TEENS TIED TO TECH

36

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS

Getting kids to disengage from screens and be in the moment

Helping your teen find available funds

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

EDITOR'S NOTE PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2015 Silver Award Winner General Excellence Awards Competition

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2015 Silver Award Winner Editorial Awards Competition

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2015 Silver Award Winner Design Awards Competition

MEET THE STAFF Publisher Mary Wynne Cox • mary@cincinnatiparent.com EDITOR Susan Bryant • susan@cincinnatiparent.com ADVERTISING // CREATI V E D I R E C TO R Katie Clark • katie@cincinnatiparent.com ACCOUNT EXECU T I V E S Charity Kirtley • charity@cincinnatiparent.com Katy Mark • katy@cincinnatiparent.com Melissa Wittenbaum • melissa@cincinnatiparent.com A dvertising Coordinator Karen Ring • karen@cincinnatiparent.com

Tuning into Teens

T

he changes are subtle at first – that transformation from child to teen. In our house it was the shoes. My daughter was taking mine from my closet. Did we really wear the same size now? My son’s shift to teenagerhood was more pronounced – literally, with a sudden comical crack in his voice. He couldn’t get through a sentence without his words travelling up and down the scale.

Now the signs of their adolescence are all around me – especially on the bathroom sink they share with its daily accumulation of makeup and flat irons, razors and pimple cream. There is no denying that they’re on the fast track to growing up, whether I’m ready for it or not.

If you’ve got a teen or tween at home, you are likely entering into some new territory.

What one issue affects their life most right now? If you said technology, you are in sync with many parents. It can be hard to compete with the buzz of incoming texts, the latest posts on social media sites and the appeal of online gaming. For some thoughts on managing your child’s relationship with technology, check out our article Teens Tied to Tech.

06

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

COMMUNITY Outreach // Social Media Sarah McCosham • sarah@cincinnatiparent.com

How’s your college savings coming along?

It’s hard to believe the cost of higher education today, but fortunately several avenues exist to help cover the expense.

Try reading College Scholarships for some advice on getting your teen his or her best shot at securing these types of awards.

Is your teenager an open book or a bit of a mystery to you right now? Adolescence can be a time of major change when it comes to social relationships and personal identity. To see how in tune you are with your child right now, take our quiz How Well Do You Really Know Your Teen?

As always, we thank you for picking up the latest copy of Cincinnati Parent. It’s October and that means our area is loaded with fun fall activities. This issue is scattered with plenty of ideas for your family to take advantage of. From pumpkin patches and hay rides to apple cider and trick-or-treating, we hope you enjoy all this season has to offer!

EDITOR

WEB EDITO R Wendy Cox • wendy@cincinnatiparent.com GR APHICS ASSIS TA N T Maria Tancredi • maria@cincinnatiparent.com INTERN Meg Wynne • meg@cincinnatiparent.com Business Manager // Accounting Roxanne Burns • roxanne@cincinnatiparent.com CONTRIBUTING W R I T E R S Michelle Shirk, , Emma Hostetter, Lauren Lawson, Selena Reder, Kathy Jonas, Pete Gilbert, Deb Krupowicz, Kelly Blewett, Sarah Painer of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital CALENDAR OF EV E N T S calendar@cincinnatiparent.com Contact U s 9435 Waterstone Blvd., Ste. 140, Cincinnati, OH 45249 P: (513) 444-2015 • F: (513) 444-2099

COPYRIGHT Cincinnati Parent Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2015 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.

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

07

IN EVERY ISSUE

COMMUNITY

SPOTLIGHT WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN OCTOBER

Under the sea Share the magic of the theatre with your little ones at The Little Mermaid Jr., the Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s 2015-16 season opener. This show has been adapted from Disney’s 2008 Broadway production, and is sure to please audiences young and old. In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid Ariel longs to leave her ocean home – and her fins – behind and be part of the world above. The show runs October 16-25 at The Taft Theatre, with several matinee and evening performances to choose from. www.thechildrenstheatre.com/mainstage/ details/disneys-the-little-mermaid-jr

Here comes the sun Stroll through fields of golden sunflowers at this year’s Gorman Heritage Farm’s Sunflower Festival on October 3rd and 4th. This annual celebration is a local favorite, recognized by Ohio Magazine as one of the best events in the state! While you’re enjoying the sunflowers, you can also pick your favorite pumpkin, take a hayride and visit with the animals. Enjoy delicious snacks from various food trucks and music and crafts from local artisans on this authentic working farm. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for kids. http://gormanfarm.org/product/sunflower-festival/

Who says nothing comes for free?

Kansas City barbecue, Queen City style The River Grill before the Big Chill is a culinary competition and two-day food and music festival that’s all about Kansas City barbecue, cooking and music. Participants have the chance to win a smoker from Bubba Grills, as well as $20,000 in prizes. Admission is $5 per person over age 12, and all proceeds benefit Cincinnati’s three waterfront parks. Don’t miss it! Mark your calendar for Friday, October 9 from 5-11pm and Saturday, October 10 from 12-9pm at Sawyer Point. www.cincinnatiparks.com/rivergrill/index.php

08

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

On Friday, October 23, the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal opens its doors to the public, free of charge, as part of its Free Friday program. From 4-8 pm, guests will receive free admission to the Cincinnati History Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science and Duke Energy Children’s Museum. Have fun climbing through the tunnels and bridges in the three-story woods, traveling back in time in an immersive ice age exhibit and stepping aboard a replica of the 94-foot steamboat, the Queen of the West. www.cincymuseum.org/events/free-fridays

FREE

Support the fight against breast cancer Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is a celebration of survivorship an occasion to express hope and determination to find a cure for breast cancer. On Saturday, October 24, Cincinnatians can show their support by walking with the American Cancer Society in the Making Strides of Greater Cincinnati event. The 5k starts and finishes at Yeatman’s Cove, with an after party featuring food and entertainment. Join the more than one million people each year who are helping to end breast cancer! http://main.acsevents.org/site/ TR?pg=entry&fr_id=70020

Say boo at the Zoo! Meet your favorite authors!

Books by the Banks is an annual celebration of books and reading that takes place every October in downtown Cincinnati. This year’s festival will be held on Saturday, October 17 from 10 am-4pm at the Duke Energy Convention Center. Guests can expect to see national, regional and local authors and illustrators, attend panel discussions and have their favorite books signed. There’s even a Kids’ Corner where kids can meet costumed characters, make crafts and listen to stories read aloud.

Take your little ghouls and boys to the Cincinnati Zoo for HallZOOween on the weekends of October 3-4,1011,17-18 and 24-25 from 12-5 pm. Kids can trick-ortreat, attend themed animal encounters, see an illusion show and ride the Hogwarts Express haunted train. Costumes are welcome but not required, and participants are asked to “go green” and bring their own treat bags. This event is free for members and included in regular Zoo admission. http://cincinnatizoo.org/events/hallzooween/

http://booksbythebanks.org/

Legos, Legos, Legos The Art of the Brick features over 100 works of art by contemporary artist Nathan Sawaya – made entirely of Legos! This is the first major museum exhibition to use Lego bricks as the sole art medium. The Art of the Brick features Lego recreations of classic works such as the Mona Lisa, Starry Night, The Scream, the Sphinx and the Thinker. This exhibit also includes an interactive element, with a 5,000 square foot section of Lego-filled tubs inviting guests to get creative. The Art of the Brick opens October 23 at the Cincinnati Museum Center and runs through May 8, 2016. Advance tickets are on sale now, with a discount for museum members.

Disney on Ice Discover endless riches when Disney On Ice presents Treasure Trove Presented by Stonyfield YoKids Organic Yogurt comes to U.S. Bank Arena, October 28-November 1. Get tangled up in Disney’s 50th animated feature with Rapunzel and Flynn and enter the worlds of your favorite Disney princesses: Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine, Aurora, Tiana, Mulan and, of course, the one who started it all, Snow White. And that is just the beginning. You won’t want to miss this show full of Disney treasures to remember! For tickets, visit Ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000.

www.cincymuseum.org/exhibits/art-of-the-brick OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

09

IN EVERY ISSUE

ONLINE

BUZZ CHECK OUT OCTOBER’S facebook & weekly e-newsletter contests

Win Tickets to Disney on Ice Presents Treasure Trove

Win Tickets to the Ohio Renaissance Festival

Win Tickets to the Cincinnati Children’s Theatre’s The Little Mermaid JR

Win Tickets to the Cincinnati Zoo

Win Kings Island Tickets

Win Tickets to Symphony Spooktacular

Win EnterTRAINment Junction Tickets

{ FIND US ONLINE } FACEBOOK // cincinnatiparent TWITTER // @cincyparent www.CincinnatiParent.com

Win Tickets to the Cincinnati Museum Center

10

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

Win Movie Tickets to Showcase Cinemas

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

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

11

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

Footnotes Thoughts from the margins of a mom’s life

The mommy buffer Kelly Blewett

After my son’s birthday, he and I sat down to write thank you notes. We had the presents in front of us on the dining room table next to a stack of cards and stickers. William had a lot to say and his pencil couldn’t keep up. Writing felt time intensive, and fitting all the words he wanted to use on the small space of a notecard seemed impossible. So I was handling the writing. My son was talking in a fast flow of words I was supposed to take down directly, and then he’d sign the note at the bottom and decorate with a few stickers.

The trouble was, some of the words he was

12

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

using were not exactly appropriate thankyou card material.

“Tell her thank you for the trainset and I love it, but that the top piece is really hard to get in place and I hate that.”

I wrote, “Thank you for the trainset, I love it.”

Next he dictated, “Tell him the lunchbox is great, but that I tried popcorn inside and I hated it.”

I wrote, “The lunchbox is great.”

I was my son’s silent censor that day. I felt particularly sneaky altering his writing and knowing he couldn’t read it and catch me.

He signed his name proudly at the bottom of each note. Eventually I tried to talk about it. “Sweetie, you don’t put the bad stuff in a thank you note, just the good stuff.” Though I’m sure this was the right thing to say, I’m not sure he really heard me.

Even little tasks like thank you cards arrive with unstated rules. Or, to put it another way, writing a thank you card isn’t just about learning how to write, it’s also about learning what to say. Fortunately, due to my sneaky moves, all the words we put there were worth sharing. We talked about the rules together, and I’m sure we’ll talk about them again.

All of this made me think about how we are buffers for our children. We cushion, protect and absorb little problems, giving kids time to think about the unstated rules at home before they misstep out in the world. As I noodled on the metaphor, I realized how many types of buffers there are. In rail transport, for instance, there are two kinds of buffers: a buffer to cushion the impact between two vehicles, and a buffer stop, which enables the vehicles to say on the tracks. Though I’m no train conductor or engineer, I too want to help my child in these ways – to protect him from unintended collisions and to keep him focused on how to best move in the world.

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

A Dad Influence Jogging strollers: fantasy vs. reality Pete Gilbert

Fantasy: I’ll still be able to exercise when I have kids. I’ll just put them in the jogging stroller and easily get in a five mile run. It will be great! I’ll exercise while spending time with my child – a win/win situation.

Reality: If you even have the energy to attempt running once you have kids, start by knowing that running with a child in a jogging stroller is no easy task. Even the smallest incline you’ve run up hundreds of times before, now feels like a miniature Mount Everest. As you run, your child will likely toss items out of the stroller while on route. This usually occurs when you finally have a decent pace going and forces you to not only stop, but turn

14

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

around to retrieve a prized stuffed animal, lovey, container of 1,000 goldfish crackers or whatever the item may be.

In between things being launched from the stroller, your child is also likely to spend the entire time talking. Not talking to themselves either, but talking to you, asking questions you MUST answer in order to make them stop. Even as you struggle with every breath, you’re still forced to reply to practical questions like “Why are stop signs red?” and not so practical questions like “Do glitter fairies really exist?”

Almost as bad as the talking stroller passenger is the sleeping stroller passenger. You may be wondering, “Why is a sleeping child a bad thing?” Think about it. Your child is sleeping while you completely exhaust yourself exercising.

When you do finish your run and are ready for a break, your child will be fully refreshed and ready to play. Also, you may have botched nap time, so the chance of you napping or even showering later just diminished to almost nothing.

I don’t want to be completely discouraging about running with a jogging stroller, just be prepared for things to be difficult, especially at first as you try to develop a routine. If nothing else, running with a jogging stroller really makes you appreciate the days when you can exercise alone in sweet, sweet silence.

For links to all my blog posts please stop by my Facebook page at Facebook.com/adadinfluence and check out my all new page on the Cincinnati Parent web site (formerly True Confessions of a Stay at Home Dad).

5 Things to Know About

breast health Increase your knowledge to reduce your risk

s

Emma Hostetter, MD, MPH

taying current on breast health is a must for all women. We all share one huge risk factor for developing breast cancer – our two “X” chromosomes. Just being a woman puts a check mark on our risk factor list. And while you may be religious with regular breast exams and screening mammograms, staying current on new research is also important. Here are a few important breast health facts that you don’t want to miss.

1.

A breast lump is usually NOT cancer.

For most women the thought of finding a breast lump, no matter how small, is terrifying. Breast cancer awareness campaigns encourage us to do selfchecks, but when we do feel something different does this mean that we have breast cancer? Dr. Sandra Miller, MD, breast surgeon at The Christ Hospital says, “Most breast lumps are not cancer, particularly in younger women.

Most breast lumps in premenopausal women are either cysts, benign tumors or sometimes, lumpy fibrocystic breast tissue. However, it can never

16

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

be assumed that a new lump is not cancer, even when a woman has had many cysts in the past. A new lump in a postmenopausal woman who is not on hormone replacement therapy is more likely, but not always, a breast cancer.”

Although most lumps are not cancer, having your doctor take a look at any breast changes is always a good idea.

2.

Your physical activity level may impact your risk for breast cancer even more than if you smoke.

While a link between breast cancer and cigarette smoking has yet to be firmly established, body weight and activity level do seem to play a role in breast cancer risk. According to Dr. Miller, “There is definite evidence that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of breast cancer, and can reduce the risk of dying of breast cancer. A woman does not have to run a marathon to reduce her risk.

Risk reduction is seen in women who walk 45 minutes, 3-4 times a week.”

3.

Your father’s family history matters when assessing your risk for breast cancer.

Many women don’t realize that a history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer on their dad’s side of the family can be a risk for them. When jotting down your family history make sure to get the details about both your mom and your dad’s families. Although gene mutations leading to breast cancer are uncommon, they do exist.

Knowing your family history could allow you to take protective measures that prevent you from developing these types of breast cancer or help you catch a problem early on.

4.

While your daily red wine may be heart healthy, it could increase your risk for breast cancer.

“There is a definite and consistent relationship between alcohol intake and the risk of breast cancer and the relationship is dose dependent,” says Dr. Miller. “Women who drink even a glass of alcohol (including a glass of wine) most days are at some increased risk of breast cancer although the increased risk is fairly small. The more alcohol a woman drinks though, the higher her risk, so that women who have 2-3 drinks most days have a higher risk than women who drink less.”

5.

Mammograms can miss things – don’t ignore what your body is telling you.

Technology has revolutionized the medical world, breast cancer screening included.

Mammograms are able to detect very small areas of cancer that a manual breast exam may never feel. And while a woman should follow the national breast screening guidelines, if she finds a concerning area on her breast, she should not ignore it even if she has had a normal mammogram recently. Even technology has its limitations, and there is the possibility that something could have been missed.

Set up an appointment to have your doctor evaluate what you are seeing or feeling.

For years women were ashamed to talk about breast cancer. Powerful awareness campaigns have squelched much of that stigma, leading to education, screening and treatment. Today, most women diagnosed with breast cancer will live long and healthy lives. It’s up to us to continue to spread the word, learn about new research and come alongside those women who are struggling with the disease.

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

17

what’s hot for tots P re sc h oo l e n ri c h m e nt p ro g r a ms fo r you r lit tle le a rn e r Lauren Lawson

ABC’S, 123’s and more enrichment please, please, please! From music and dance to crafts and cooking, the opportunities to expand your child’s evergrowing curiosity are endless. So put your preschooler’s best sneaker forward and check out this listing to discover some of the most interesting activities and programs in the Cincinnati area designed to nurture the tot in your life.

Little Gym of Mason Release all that energy at the Little Gym of Mason, a gymnastics program tailored specifically for preschool and kindergarten children.

Kids work on gym basics, while also learning about letters, numbers and developing their imaginations. Tumble over to www.thelittlegym.com to learn more.

Lil’ Dragon Martial Arts Club

{ FOR THE WIGGLE WORMS } Movers and Shakers Dance, sing and groove to the music at the Cincinnati Public Library’s free program, Movers and Shakers. This hour-long storytime has a twist, with lively music and fun movements that will make both parents and toddlers wiggle and giggle.

To find branch times and dates, check out www. cincinnatilibrary.org.

18

The Lil’ Dragon program at the Cincinnati Martial Arts Club is the perfect introduction to the disciplined sport of martial arts. Through this Pre-K class, students will practice listening and focusing skills, as well as coordination and motor skills. To register, visit www.cmactkd.com.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

Cincinnati Ballet Petite Pas de Deux Take a bow! The Cincinnati Ballet offers a Petite Pas de Deux class for those tiny dancers.

During this 32 week course, students will learn to develop coordination and muscle strength, as well as listening skills and spatial awareness.

Twirl over to www.cballet. org for class information.

{ FOR THE CREATIVE CROWD } Miss Liz Music and Movement Miss Liz’s Music and Movement class is the place for toddlers on a Thursday morning. This month-long program takes place at the Anderson Branch Public Library where kids and their parents can sing, dance and move to the beat of the music. Miss Liz engages with songs, rhymes and instruments throughout the class. Register by calling

(513) 369-6030. Music with Ms. Meghan is another free option that takes place at the Blue Manatee bookstore in Oakley. Join in on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of every month for some fun song and dance time.

Visit www.blue manateebooks. com to learn more.

Music Together Class For the precocious maestro, Brown Music Together offers a fun journey into the musical world with their Music Together class.

Families share songs, explore instruments and move in a playful way.

Sessions take place at the Oakley Community Center.

Check out www.brown musictogether.com for times and dates.

Mommy, Daddy and Me Art Workshop Paint the way to toddler happiness with a Mommy, Daddy and Me Workshop at Funke Fired Arts. Families will hear stories, sing songs

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

19

and experiment with paint, clay and paper. Kids will enjoy creating art projects, while also developing their fine motor skills. For fall scheduling, visit www.theart workshopinc. net.

{ FOR SCIENCE AND NATURE KIDS } Little Nature Nuts In this program available through the Parks District in Anderson Township, parents and their toddlers will partake in a variety of outdoor activities in Johnson Hill Park.

Each class has a different nature theme. Little Nature Nuts meet once a month in October and November.

Little Nature Explorers

20

is another natural option for families looking for additional outdoor events. Classes takes place Tuesdays in October and focus on a different autumnal color.

Register at www. anderson parks.com.

NatureTots This educational program designed for parents and their preschoolers, takes place at the Waldorf School’s satellite campus, Meshewa, where students will engage in seasonal games and songs.

Kids will also enjoy playing with Waldorf toys and tools too. To learn more, visit www.cincinnatiwaldorf school.org.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

{ FOR LITTLE BOOKLOVERS } Preschool and Toddler Storytimes Encourage language development with Toddler Storytime at the Blue Ash Public Library. Preschool Storytime is also available at various locations. Find dates and times by checking out www.cincinnatilibrary. org.

Foreign Language Storytime The Blue Manatee in Oakley takes storytime to a whole new level with their French, German, Chinese and Spanish Storytime classes.

Kids will listen to stories and songs spoken in each native tongue. Also drop into Manatots, their regularly

scheduled storytime program.

Class times and schedules are posted at www.blue manateebooks.com.

Wee One Wednesdays The Cincinnati History Museum offers Wee One Wednesdays, a program that engages the younger crowd with a variety of exhibits and activities. Little Learners Mondays also invites preschoolers to enjoy the museum without the distraction of visiting school groups. Learn more at www. cincymuseum.org.

With so many fun, interesting and educational enrichment programs in our area, your preschooler will have no trouble getting from A to Z!

FAMILY HEALTH // BRANDED CONTENT

Cultural Shift Means Moms and Daughters Experience Life Changes Together Premier Health

For moms, symptoms may include:

Women are having children later and their daughters are entering puberty earlier, which can mean mom and daughter are entering perimenopause and puberty together. “The stages in a female’s life have definitely shifted in the past couple of decades,” said Amanda Fox, a certified nurse practitioner at Dulan and Moore Dulan Family Wellness Center in Lebanon. “This can have a significant impact on the mother-daughter relationship if steps are not taken to help avoid conflict that can arise from the accompanying hormonal changes.”

• • • • •

Talking about these experiences is one way to manage the very real symptoms that are a part of the process. During perimenopause, women’s bodies begin to produce less estrogen, which usually begins in the mid-40s.

Hot flashes Irritability Fatigue Weight gain Irregular periods

Girls normally enter puberty between the ages of 10 and 14, experiencing physical and emotional changes. Girls may be surprised, confused or even scared about the changes taking place in their bodies. “It’s also a time where conflict can arise. Adolescent girls may begin placing their friends first and family last,” Ms. Fox said, “which can tend to create adversity, especially between a mother and daughter.” For these young women, symptoms may include: • Increased height and weight • Increase in body hair

• Breast development • Start of menstrual periods For most mothers and daughters, the wave of change will come to an end with no real emotional scars. Ms. Fox suggests keeping the lines of communication open, even if your teenager disagrees or rolls her eyes. “Give each other space and tell your daughter what you may also need to be mindful of – it’s okay if you’re not feeling well,” she said.

All women should remember there is help and support available. Talk with your family physician or gynecologist about your symptoms and coping mechanisms.

For more information on perimenopause and puberty or to find a Premier HealthNet physician near you, visit http://www. premierhealthnet.com/doctor.

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

21

22

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

autumn happenings So much to do with your family this fall!

Kathy Jonas

Is fall your favorite season ?

The Cincinnati area is loaded with family- friendly events and festivals if so ! Here are just a few possibilities to mark on your calendar.

October weekends at Irons Fruit Farm are devoted to making sure you find that one special pumpkin to display on the front step. Tractor wagons leave about every 15 minutes for a ride to the patch and back. A corn maze the size of twelve football fields attracts kids of all ages. Cinnamon-cider donuts, apple fritters, turnovers, dumplings and mini-pies cater to those with a sweet tooth. Located between Dayton and Cincinnati, Irons Fruit Farm is sure to be a favorite with your family. For more details visit www.ironsfruitfarm.com.

Take a lantern ride after dark and learn about history as you pass by Civil War soldiers, spies, politicians and simple town folk on Saturday evenings during October at Bonnybrook Farms .

Professional actors commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War in Ohio. Afterwards, stop by the barn for apple dumplings and whipped cream. On October weekends, this 300-acre farm

also offers a pumpkin patch, corn maze and giant slingshot. Visit www.bonny brookfarms.com to learn more.

Come to Blooms & Berries Farm Market to test your skills in the “The Great Honey Caper” seven acre corn maze. Try to find seven of the eight suspects to uncover who took the honey.

Just a hint: some of the possibilities include Lucille Lady Bug and Douglas Duck. Thirty-minute pumpkin patch hayrides through the “I Spy” Woods, cow train rides, farm animals, a small maze for little ones and Spookley the Square Pumpkin Storyboard trail are just a few things to do at Blooms & Berries. Check out www.bloomsandberriesfarm market.com for more info.

Looking for a non-scary event designed for younger children? The Cincinnati

Parks’ Magic Forest Halloween Hikes may be just what you’re looking for.

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

23

Designed for children ages three to ten, these popular hikes take participants down a pumpkin-lit trail where they meet costumed characters from history.

Hikes start at 7 pm and continue during specified times during the evenings of Friday, October 16 and Saturday, October 17. Register online at www.parks.cincyregister.com.

Get Fido in on the holiday fun by taking him to the Spooky

Pooch Contest and Parade . This fourth annual event takes place in Washington Park in Glendale on Saturday, October 10 giving your furry friend the chance to dress up and strut his stuff. The parade begins at noon with other scheduled activities including a kids’ stuffed animal contest and a creative grooming

24

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

competition. March on over to www.spookypooch.com to learn more.

What’s Halloween without a glimpse of the Headless Horseman? He’ll be joined by a mad scientist and witches at the Haunted Village at Heritage Village Museum for six nights in October. This family friendly “slight fright” is filled with ghostly attractions plus face painting, balloon animals and various games. Guests are encouraged to wear their costumes to join in the fun! Get the details at www.heritage village cincinnati. org/haunted_ village.aspx.

Ever had sauerkraut pizza? How about sauerkraut fudge? Get your chance at the 46th Annual Ohio Sauerkraut Festival on October 10-11 in Waynesville. Along with many sauerkraut dishes, visitors can sample cabbage rolls, polish cabbage soup, German sundaes and more. (Plenty of “non-kraut” food is available too!) This festival also features over 450 artisans every year selling their hand-crafted items. Get your kraut on at www.sauerkraut festival.com.

With so much to do in our area this season, your family won’t have to go far to have a fall fun of fun!

fall fun guide

A sampling of all the season has to offer

Experience Fall on the Farm

Jack-O-Lantern Junction

Ohio Renaissance Festival

9669 St. Rt 48, Loveland, Oh 45150

7379 Squire Court, Westchester, OH 45069

10542 E. Ohio 73, Harveysburg, OH 45032

(513) 697-9173 www.fallonthefarm.com

(513) 898-8000 www.enterTRAINmentjunction.com

Hours/Dates: Sept 19th through Oct 31st, Mon-Sat 10-7, Sun 10-6

Admission Price: Best Value! Our Do-It-All! ticket.

(513) 897-7000 ohio@renfestival.com www.renfestival.com/

Take a hayride to a pumpkin patch, see real farm animals, get lost in the 7-acre corn maze and explore the play area. Don’t miss the piles of pumpkins, beautiful mums, apple cider and other Fall favorites. This annual event at Blooms and Berries in Loveland, Ohio, runs Sept. 19Oct. 31.

Halloween Nights at Parky’s Farm 10073 Daly Road, Cincinnati, OH 45231

Hours/Dates: Daily, September 26th Through November 1st

You won’t’ want to miss Jack O’Lantern Junction at EnterTRAINment Junction! Halloween fun for the whole family! First walk-thru our trick or treat maze and see kid friendly ghosts, skeletons and more. Stop and color, or see Halloweenville our miniature animated display. Plus 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. And as always you can experience the world’s largest indoor train display or enjoy hours of fun in our kid’s play area.

Admission Price: Adult (ages 13+): $21.95, Child (ages 5-12): $9.95, Seniors (ages 65+): $19.95, Military/Police/Fire/EMS: $19.95, Adult Season Pass: $119.95, Child Season Pass: $49.95 Hours/Dates: Every Sat & Sun Through October 25th, 10:30AM - 6:00PM

Thrill...Feast...Watch...Shop...Explore...Enjoy!

Forget your cares and step back in time to this 30-acre re-created 16th Century English village and enjoy over 400 years of fun in a single day!

The festival offers something for everyone featuring nearly 100 shows daily on 11 stages, over 135 unique arts and crafts shops, hearty food and drink, games of skill and humanpowered rides to amuse all ages. Rain or shine.

(513) 521-3276 greatparks.org/learn/parkys-farm Admission Price: $6/person; Tickets at gate: $7/person; Free/kids under 2.

Gorman Heritage Farm’s 12th Annual Sunflower Festival

Hours/Dates: Thursdays through Sundays, October 8-25th, 6-10:00 PM

10052 Reading Rd Evendale, OH 45241

The only NON-SCARY NIGHTTIME Halloween party in town! Dress your best and bring out your little ghouls and goblins, princesses and superheroes to a one-of-a-kind, family-friendly Halloween party.

HallZOOween 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220

(513)281-4700 cincinnatizoo.org/events/hallzooween/

(513) 563-6663 http://gormanfarm.org/product/ sunflower-festival/ Hours/Dates: Saturday and Sunday, October 3rd and 4th, 10am-4pm

This annual celebration of the fall harvest is a local favorite! Stroll through the fields of golden sunflowers while collecting some to take home, pick your favorite pumpkin to launch, take on a hayride and visit with the animals at Gorman Heritage Farm! Enjoy local food trucks, music and crafts from local artisans all while exploring the beautiful living history of a working farm, founded in 1835.

Admission Price: Free with Zoo admission!

Hours/Dates: Every Sat & Sun, October 3rd Through Oct. 25th; Noon - 5:00 PM

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, plus Hogwarts Express Train Ride & Scare-ousel (for an additional charge). Kids are encouraged to wear a costume during HallZOOween, but it is not required. Help the Zoo Go Green! Please bring your own treat bag!

26

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

Neltner’s Farm 6922 Four Mile Road, Camp Springs, KY 41059

(859) 496-7535 www.neltnersfarm.com Hours/Dates: Weekends in October from 10am-6pm. Also open throughout the week, but with limited activites.

Neltner’s Farm invites your family to join ours for our annual fall festival. There’s something for everyone: horse-drawn wagon rides, corn maze, pick-your-own pumpkin patch, petting zoo, pony rides, homemade food & ice cream, farm shop, pottery, face-painting, seasonal apples, folk art, live music, a barrel train, and much more!

Midwest Cheer Elite Trunk or Treat 8730 North Pavilion Drive, West Chester, OH 45069

(513) 779-9111 info@midwestcheerelite.com www.midwestcheerelite.com Dates/Hours: Thursday, October 29th from 7-8:30pm Admission Price: FREE

Come in costume and bring a friend and join us for a FREE Trunk or Treat... Hayrides, vendors and plenty of candy for all!! Ages 13 and younger.

Pumpkin Days on the Farm at Benton Family Farm 11896 Old lexington Pike, Walton, KY 41094

(859) 485-7000 bentonfamilyfarm@aol.com bentonfarm.com Dates: Open one weekend only: Friday through Sunday, Oct 16-18 Hours: October 16, 3pm-7pm; October 17, 10am-7pm; October 18, 10am-7pm Admission Price: $7 person, 3 years under FREE

A family working farm open for your visit in October, to pick a pumpkin off the vine with a hayride out to the patch. Non-commercial setting just a simple family working farm having an agritourism month, and do expect hands on

with the animals and lots of learning experience! A great place to bring your children if they want to see what a fourth generation working farm looks like and meet the 3rd and 4th generations helping to make this October possible! Lots of family fun including a kids hay maze, pony rides and so much more!

PUMPKIN PATCH TOUR at sunrock farm 103 Gibson Lane, Wilder, KY 41076

859-781-5502 www.sunrockfarm.org/ Hours/Dates: Saturdays and Sundays only, October 3rd through 25th

Families and small groups will delight in Sunrock Farm’s Pumpkin Patch Tour during the month of October. Experience a two hour hands-on guided tour.

As part of your farm tour, climb aboard the hay wagon for a hayride out to the pumpkin field to choose that special pumpkin. Families have the opportunity to: milk a goat, gather eggs, hold chicks and bunnies, get hands-on time with farm animals, visit alpaca and emu, enjoy a hayride to the pumpkin patch and get free apple cider and cookies on weekends at the farm store.

Snoopy’s Halloween Party 6300 Kings Island Drive, Kings Island, OH 45034

(513) 754-5700 www.visitkingsisland.com/events/thingsto-do/events-and-promotions/SnoopysHalloween-Party-Opening-Day Hours/Dates: Saturdays and Sundays, October 3rd through November 1st

What’s something fun everyone can do together as a family this Halloween? At Snoopy’s Halloween Party at Kings Island, you’ll find lots of family-friendly fun, all in one place. Trick-or-treating, live shows, a pumpkin patch, hay bale maze, kids costume contest, a petting farm plus all of your favorite rides are all part of the fun. Snoopy’s Halloween Party is included with park admission to Kings Island.

Station Road Farm 6749 Station Road, West Chester, OH 45069

(513) 777-3650 stationrd.farm@yahoo.com www.stationroadfarm.com Admission Price: $3; hayrides, small pumpkins, barnyard playground also available, plus feed the chickens!

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.

Come play on our huge barnyard playground, see the bunnies, & 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!

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

27

HOW WELL DO YOU REALLY KNOW YOUR TEEN? As a parent you probably have a pretty good guess about what your teenager would name as his or her favorite food, color, entertainer or TV show. When it comes to more in depth topics however, do you have a sense of what’s going on in their world? See if you can answer these questions regarding your child. If you get stumped, use them as conversation starters next time you’re together!

What is your teen most proud of?

What does your teen find embarrassing?

What does he or she worry about?

Would your child change anything about their physical appearance if they could? Or their personality?

Does your teen have a habit he or she is trying to break or start?

What would they consider to be the best compliment they could receive?

Does he or she have a favorite family tradition?

Is there anyone your child really dislikes at school or has a problem with?

When was the last time he or she cried?

What is your child’s favorite class at school? Least favorite?

If they had to pick a job or career right now, what would it be?

What would your child consider to be the worst punishment you ever gave them?

What is your teen’s biggest fear?

Who you consider to be lifelong friends What your personality was like as a child or teenager How you met their other parent

What would be your teen’s favorite way to spend a free day?

What your college major was The basics of what you do for a living

What movie can he or she quote word for word?

Who you voted for in the last election

What causes or social issues are important to your teen?

Why you chose their name and what other names you considered What you worry about regarding them, and what your hopes are for them

What relative do they like the most?

Least?

How Well Does Your Teen Really Know You?

What would they say their favorite vacation was?

You may be surprised by what your kids don’t know about you – and how interested they are in the subject.

How many of these subjects have you shared with your child?

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

Something that scared you when you were younger

The music or bands you grew up listening to

Does he or she have a pet peeve?

28

What the town you grew up in was like

Does your teen have a celebrity crush?

Or a crush on someone at school?

Does your teen have a best friend?

What quality does he or she think is most important in a friendship?

What your first job was

What makes you proud to be their parent

Selena Reder

Teens Tied to Tech

Getting kids to disengage from screens and be in the moment

S

Go “old school” with a screenfree weekend

chool is in full swing and your teens are busier than ever.

Between team practices, club meetings and homework, you’re lucky to get a word in edgewise with them. When you do finally come together in the same place at the same time and can catch up, you find yourself competing with the constant chirp of their incoming texts, the latest YouTube video shared by a friend and the social media site that must be updated. Another chance for real connection among the people you care about most has been derailed.

Challenge your family to spend a couple of days without their devices. Ask for their suggestions on activities that interest them.

At the end of the weekend, talk to your kids about what they may have learned about their dependence on technology and what kind of effect spending their time in other ways had on them.

Exchange tech experiences for similar “real” experiences

Absorbed in technology Mobile devices, streaming video, social media…the opportunities to plug in are ever-present and the time teens spend being connected to some form of technology is astounding. The Kaiser Family Foundation reports that young people devote more than seven hours a day to media use.

anxiety becomes a trigger for checking Facebook, sadness becomes a trigger for turning on the TV,” he says. For some, the slightest discomfort is dealt with by turning to a device instead of addressing an issue directly.

“We’re the first generation of parents who had to deal with this problem and there’s no precedent,” says Angela Hursh, mother of two. Lily, 15, has a smartphone and loves watching design and makeup tutorials online. Ella, 11, has an iPad and enjoys videos on horseback riding and veterinary care. Like many parents, Hursh often worries about the amount of time her daughters spend on their devices. This is a legitimate concern, as The American Academy of Pediatrics links excessive media exposure to behavioral problems, trouble in school, obesity and lack of sleep.

Understand the time and place for tech

“Part of the challenge is really in defining what is ‘normal’ and, presumably, healthy and what is ultimately disordering or unhelpful,” says Matthew V. Auciello, MSW, LISW, school-based therapist at the Children’s Home of Cincinnati. “Boredom becomes a trigger for using the iPad,

Begin by setting clear limits and letting your kids know when it’s appropriate to use their device and when it’s not. Auciello advises parents to have kids avoid screen time during activities that are meant for connecting with others, like dinner time.

Hursh says the policy in her family is “no screen time until homework is done.”

32

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

Setting new priorities With technology having such a tight hold on our kids’ attention, how can we encourage them to step away from their screens and see the advantages of “living in the moment”? Here are few suggestions for achieving a better balance.

If you want to be successful at reducing your child’s media consumption, you’ve got to replace it with something that is equally interesting to them. If your son is a gamer for example, see if getting a ping pong or card game tournament going can be an alternative to a weekend glued to Xbox.

Realize the personal toll technology takes

Talk to kids about how excessive screen time makes them feel – relaxed or frazzled?

Energized or depleted? Contrast this with how getting outside, being physically active or having a great conversation with a friend makes them feel. Also discuss how being in the presence of someone distracted by their device affects their relationship with that person.

What’s the best way to get your kids to change their technology-dependency?

Show them how it’s done. Resist the urge you have to constantly answer your phone, check social media sites and isolate yourself in the myriad ways that technology now allows all of us to do. Let your children see how you value face-to-face relationships and in-person experiences over digital ones and they will begin to see the benefits of managing their tie to technology too.

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

33

{CINCINNATI PARENT}

OPEN HOUSE GUIDE *

Archbishop McNicholas High School

*

Country Hills Montessori

*

The Kinder Garden Schools

6536 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45230

Multiple Locations in Eastgate, Oakley, Harrison & West Chester, OH and Ft. Thomas, KY

Blue Ash: 10969 Reed Hartman Highway, Blue Ash, OH 45242

(513) 231-3500 www.mcnhs.org

www.chmschools.com

(513) 791-4300

{Open House DATES} Sunday, January 24 from 1-2:30 or parents may call to schedule a private tour.

West Chester: 5900 West Chester Road, West Chester, OH 45069

{Open House DATE} Sun., October 25th from 1-3:30pm

*

Bethany School

555 Albion Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45246

(513) 771-7462 www.bethanyschool.org {Open House DATES} Sat., October 10th from 11am-1:00pm and Sun., January 31st from 2-4:00pm

*

Central Montessori Academy

1904 Springdale Road, Cincinnati, OH 45231

(513) 742-5800 www.centralmontessoriacademy.com {Open House DATE} Sun., October 25th from Noon-2:00pm

*

Chai Tots

7587 Central Parke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040

(513) 234-0777 www.ChaiTots.com Call for a personal tour. * Children’s Meeting House Montessori School 927 O’Bannonville Road, Loveland, OH 45140

(513) 683-4757 http://cmhschool.com Call for a personal tour.

*

Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy

11525 Snider Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249

(513) 247-0900 chca-oh.org

*

Creative Tots

(513) 272-2223 Mason: 6408 Thornberry Court, Ste. 210, Mason, OH 45040

(513) 770-6776 www.creativetots.com {Open House DATES} October 28th from 6-7:30pm (Halloween Party Open House) December 9th, 9:30-11:30am January 14th, 12:30-2:30pm May 18th, 5-7:00pm (Family Art Show)

*

Liberty Bible Academy

4900 Old Irwin-Simpson Road, Mason, OH 45040

(513) 754-1234 www.libertybibleacademy.org {Open House DATES} Sat., November 14th and Sat., January 30th, from 11am-2:00pm

*

Mercy Montessori Center

2335 Grandview Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45206

The Good Shepherd Catholic Montessori *

4460 Berwick Street, Cincinnati, OH 45227

(513) 271-4171 www.gscmontessori.org {Open House DATES} Sat., November 14th from 1-3:00pm & Sun., January 24th from 1-4:00pm

*

Guardian Angels School

6539 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45230

(513) 624-3141 gaschool.org {Open House DATE}: Sun., January 31st from 1-3:00pm

Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church Preschool *

1345 Grace Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45208

(513) 979-8191 http://hydeparkpreschool.org

{Campus Visit DATES} Wed., March 9th & Mon., April 26th

{Open House DATE} Sat., November 14th from 10am-Noon

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

{Open House DATES} Thurs., October 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29 from 4:30-5:30pm

Madeira: 7803 Laurel Avenue, Madeira, OH 45243

{Open House DATES} Sat., November 7th & Sat., January 30th

34

(513) 874-3100 www.KinderGardenSchool.com

(513) 475-6700 www.mercymontessori.org {PRESCHOOL Open House DATE} Sun., November 15th from 1-3:00pm

*

Montessori Academy of Cincinnati

8293 Duke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040

(513) 398-7773 www.montacademy.org {Open House DATES} Sunday, November 8th & Sunday, January 24th

*

Montessori Center Room

2505 Riverside Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45202

(513) 321-3282 http://montessoricenterroom.com {Open House DATE} Sun., November 15th from 12-2:00pm

*

Mother of Mercy High School

3036 Werk Road, Cincinnati, OH 45211

(513) 661-2740 www.motherofmercy.org {Open House DATE} Sun., November 1st from 1-3:00pm

*

The New School Montessori

3 Burton Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229

(513) 281-7999 www.newschoolmontessori.com {Open House DATES} Sun., October 18th, Sun., January 24th, & Sun., April 24th from 2-4:00pm

*

Redeemer Preschool

2944 Erie Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45208

(513) 533-5980 Redeemerpreschoolhydepark.com Call to schedule a tour.

*

Rockwern Academy

8401 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45236

(513) 984-3770 RockwernAcademy.org Call for a personal tour.

*

Seven Hills School

Hillsdale Campus - 5400 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati, OH 45227 Doherty Campus - 2726 Johnstone Place, Cincinnati, OH 45206

(513) 728-2400 7hills.org/welcome {Open House DATES} For Grades 6-12: Sun., October 25th from 12:30-2:30pm, Hillsdale Campus {INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS} Lower School (Gr. PreK-5), Tues., November 3rd at 9am, Hillsdale Campus; Lower School (Gr. PreK-5), Weds., November 4th at 9am, Doherty Campus

*

St. Ursula Academy

1339 E. McMillian Street, Cincinnati, OH 45206

(513) 961-3410 www.saintursula.org {SHOWCASE NIGHTS} October 15, November 11 & December 8 from 6:30-8:30pm {Open House DATE} Sun., October 25 from 1-3:30pm

*

St. Ursula Villa

3660 Vineyard Place, Cincinnati, OH 45226

(513) 871-7218 www.stursulavilla.org {INFORMATIONAL COFFEES} from 8:30 – 10:00 a.m.

Wednesday, November 11: Showcasing Traditional Preschool for 2, 3, & 4-year-olds and Montessori for 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds Friday, November 13: Highlighting Traditional Kindergarten through Junior High

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

35

College Scholarships Helping your teen find avail able funds Michelle Shirk

If you have a college-bound teen, you’re probably already thinking about ways to make your child’s education more affordable. You know there’s scholarship money out there, but how do you find it?

Maximize your family’s chances of scholarship success with these expert tips.

Setting the stage While many scholarships are geared toward seniors, keep in mind that your child won’t become an ideal candidate overnight.

“Families should begin in 9th grade focusing on academic achievement, extracurricular activities and volunteer work,” says Amanda Howard, School Counselor at Butler Tech School of the Arts. Instead of trying to do every available activity, she encourages students to focus on the ones they truly care about. “Totally immersing yourself in something you are passionate about leads to great opportunities,” she says.

Of course, every student is different. “All students don’t have the opportunity to go out and volunteer,” says Tanya Ficklin, Lead Counselor for Cincinnati Public Schools. “They may be the oldest in their family, so they have to go home and babysit. Or [they] may come from a single parent family, so they have to go to work.”

However, she believes that application success is ultimately tied to how well the student presents himself and the opportunities he has had. For example, by going to work, a student exhibits leadership, responsibility and maturity, she says. Students can ask their guidance counselors or English teachers for assistance in crafting strong applications.

36

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

Also, reduce senior year stress by planning ahead. “You can never start researching too soon,” says Ficklin. Begin searching for and tracking potential opportunities early for the best success.

Your scholarship road map Families should be aware of several general categories of scholarships. First, colleges themselves offer scholarships to prospective students, says Ficklin. Many of these are merit-based and tied to test scores. Some also come from specific schools or departments within the university.

Local businesses and community organizations provide an important additional funding source. Howard recommends students check in with their parents’ employers as well as groups that family members belong to. Check out options for children of military veterans as well. Ficklin also points students to the Cincinnati Scholarship Foundation (www.cincinnatischolarship foundation.org/), which allows Cincinnati area students to apply to be considered for many different scholarships.

Need more ideas? “One of the best places to start is in your high school counselor’s office,” says Howard. “Most school counselors do a great job maintaining lists of scholarship opportunities for seniors.”

You can also check out the Online Scholarship Search Tools listed here for websites that can aid in your search.

Of course, it’s also important to know which opportunities not to pursue. “You should never pay to do a scholarship search or to submit a scholarship application,” says Howard. She also warns that while many need-based applications require information about your family’s income, no application should need your student’s social security number. “If in doubt, ask your school counselor,” she says.

“Students should treat applying for scholarships like a part time job. If putting 100 hours into scholarship applications and searches results in $10,000 of scholarship money, then you just earned $100 an hour toward college.”

Tips for a perfect pitch Once you find a possible scholarship opportunity, help your child stand out from the crowd of applicants. Ficklin recommends thoroughly researching each scholarship and its requirements.

Where an essay is required, applicants should be sure to focus directly on the prompt provided.

Howard encourages students to take their time when preparing and proofreading scholarship applications. “No one does their best work the night before a deadline,” she says. Along the same lines, she suggests giving potential references at least two weeks notice to write a letter of recommendation and providing them with a copy of the applicant’s resume or list of relevant accomplishments.

If finding and completing scholarship applications feels like a lot of work, your family may just be doing something right. “Students should treat applying for scholarships like a part time job,” says Howard. “If putting 100 hours into scholarship applications and searches results in $10,000 of scholarship money, then you just earned $100 an hour toward college.” This hourly rate increases if the scholarships received are renewable. The time your family spends searching for scholarships can pay off in a big way.

Online Scholarship Search Tools { Fastweb } www.fastweb.com Students fill out an online questionnaire and are sent scholarship opportunities matching their interests and career focus.

{ FinAid } www.finaid.org This popular website provides free information on available scholarships, loans and more. There’s even a page devoted to scholarships open to kids younger than 13.

{ Scholarships.com } www.scholarships.com Fill out an online questionnaire to be sent scholarship matches, learn about financial aid and research colleges.

{ Federal Student Aid } http://studentaid.ed.gov Administered by the U.S. Department of Information, this site gives info on federal grants and tips for finding and applying for scholarships.

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

37

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

Ask the Teacher Bullying programs, math facts, grammar problems Deb Krupowicz

Q:

I have a hard time imagining that bullying

is any worse than it ever was. Some kids are just mean. Why is so much school time being devoted to this topic?

A:

Bullying has been on the landscape of every childhood; you are right that there have always been mean kids who make life difficult for others. However, technology and social media have brought about an increase in the number of incidents of bullying and have added another mechanism by which bullying occurs. The speed with which vicious posts spread far surpasses anything we have ever known. In no time, a student can become a victim of a large number of taunts and jabs.

Because of the pervasive and very public nature of bullying now possible through technology, public health agencies, school counselors and child psychologists have felt

compelled to develop multi-faceted programs to address this issue. Students learn how to avoid becoming victims by building self-confidence and developing specific strategies to use in response to bullies. Classmates learn to recognize when behaviors escalate from teasing to bullying and are given ideas on how to stand up for others. Kids also come to understand their responsibility in reporting bullying to trusted adults for the protection of others. Wouldbe bullies learn that what they may consider harmless teasing can have immediate and long-term effects on their victims.

Social media emboldens kids who would likely never have surfaced as “bullies” a generation ago. Kids consider their negative posts as harmless because they are not physically hurting anyone. They simply do not understand that the pain inflicted on others in this way can result in much more damage than a playground fight. Parents should monitor their child’s email and social media accounts to make sure their child is not being bullied and also, to ensure that

their child’s actions could not be perceived as inflicting harm on others.

Q:

When I attended Parent Night for my third grade son, I was surprised when the teacher said that she would not be emphasizing math facts during third grade. She said it was not a priority of the math program they use. Why would this not be considered important?

A:

Some math programs place a heavier emphasis on mathematical concepts and abstract thinking than on the skill and drill that has been typically emphasized in math instruction. There is a great deal of research that indicates that development of algebraic reasoning lays a stronger foundation for the in-depth math that is taught later.

Common sense still indicates that the better a child masters basic facts in addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, the more adept he will be when computation becomes more complex. Adding, subtracting and multiplying multi-digit numbers will be done more successfully when a child knows basic math facts. Applying those three mastered skills to solving long division problems will minimize the frustrations of learning that very challenging concept.

You can provide the opportunity for math fact mastery using flashcards or by using a free website for practice and games such as www. factmonster.com/math/flashcards.html or www.playkidsgames.com/games/ mathfact/mathFact.htm. Five to ten minutes of practice several times a week will provide a great foundation for confident math computation.

38

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

Q:

We have been in three different schools due to job transfers over the last eight years. Our seventh grader has coped with the moves well and has been successful in school. However, she has not gotten a good grasp of grammar. I do not know this subject well enough to help her, and I am seeing that she is having a tough time in her Spanish class because of it. What can I do to help her?

A:

The importance of direct instruction in grammar is highly debated. However, a student doesn’t have to spend much time in a challenging writing class or as a new foreign language learner to understand that these courses would be much easier with a better understanding of the building blocks of English.

Many parents lack confidence in providing grammar instruction, largely because they have been away from it for so long.

An easy way to help reinforce the basics of grammar is to find an Internet site that provides explanations and examples as well as practice. The format of these websites is typically quite engaging. Before your daughter starts on the website, try the exercises yourself so that you can see how the site handles incorrect responses. An explanation is very helpful! If you prefer something other than screen-time, go to an education resources store and ask for a workbook recommendation. Look for a book that has easy-to-understand explanations as well as examples, opportunities to practice what was explained and a complete answer key. Finally, working with a tutor may be necessary until your child learns the basic parts of speech and usage skills. The investment will pay off not only in a better foreign language experience, but also in a better understanding of the essential elements of writing.

A sk the T eacher is written by Deb Krupowicz, a mother of four who holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Deb has over twenty years of experience teaching preschool, elementary and middle school students. Please send your questions to her at asktheteacher@cincinnatiparent.com.

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

39

preschool and

education guide [CHARTER] Hori zon S cience Academy C incinnati HSA-Cincy: building the skills students need to reach new heights and challenging students to achieve their goals and beyond through local, state, and national academic competitions.

Offering high-quality, college-prep, STEM education. Hours of Operation are from 7:30am to 2:30pm.

1055 Laidlaw Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45237, Phone: (513) 242 0099, Email: info@horizoncincy.org, www.horizoncincy.org, Grades: K-8th

[CHILDCaRE // PRESCHOOL] Chai Tots E arly Childhood Center Academic excellence via a unique blend of Jewish and Montessori education offering strong academics, stressing life skills, interpersonal relationship skills and nurturing a love for life-long learning. Individualized curriculum customized for each student, expansive naturally lit rooms, low student ratio. Specials include yoga, music, Hebrew, 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

CH I LD RE N I NC .

Early Education and Care (including Montessori and traditional curriculum) offered at multiple sites throughout Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati.

Nationally accredited and multi-STAR quality rated. Generous tuition assistance is available for qualifying families based on income and family size.

Phone: (859) 431-2075, www.childreninc.org, Grades: Infant through 12 years

T he Compass S chool Ages 6 weeks-6 years plus after school & summer camp up to age 12. Offering outstanding ReggioInspired full and part-time Infant, Toddler, Two’s, and Preschool programs, as well as Kindergarten, After School, and Summer Camp for school-age children. Degreed teachers, extensive parent communication, and welcoming family environment. Setting the standard in early care and education. Call today for your personal tour.

9370 Waterstone Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45249,

40

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

Contact: Laura Carr, Phone: 513-683-8833, Fax: 513-683-8456, Email: CompassLC2004@gmail.com, www.TheCompassSchool.com

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.creative totsmason.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: 10969 Reed Hartman Highway, Blue Ash, OH 45242, Phone: 791-4300; West Chester: 5900 West Chester Road, West Chester, OH 45069; Phone: 874-3100, www.KinderGardenSchool. com, Grades: 6 weeks through kindergarten, Enrollment: Please call the school 791-4300 or email Tami Lanham at tami@kindergardenschool.com

S K I DADDLE S Skidaddles offers convenient, flexible, reliable care without reservations. Drop by days, evenings and weekends for a few hours or all day. Feel confident knowing your children will have fun while learning from a qualified staff in a safe and clean environment.

Florence: 8660 Bankers Street, Florence, KY 41042, Phone: 859-647-7529, MasonL 5939 Deerfield Blvd Suite 104, Mason, OHIO 45040, Phone: 513-2043482, www.skidaddles.com

YM C A of Greater C incinnati 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.

[MONTESSORI] Children ’ s Meeting House Montessori S chool An authentic Montessori school program resting on 8 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: Casey Reed, Director, Phone: 513-683-4757, Email: reed@cmhschool.com, www.cmhschool. com, Grades: Preschool through Sixth grade, Enrollment: 160

Country H ills Montessori 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: rpsdirector03@gmail.com, Redeemerpreschoolhydepark.com, Grades: 2 1/2 - 5 years, Enrollment: 90

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

G arden M ontessori S chool Celebrating over 40 years, member of Cincinnati Montessori Society. Certified/degreed Montessori teachers with combined 70 years experience. Montessori program, full day, and Kindergarten. Individualized instruction, small class size, 1:8 teacher/child ratio. Offer music, dance, and gym. Large, fenced-in outdoor playground.

1318 Nagel Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45255, Contact: Jackie Wofford/Director, Phone: 513-474-4933, Email: gms@cinci. rr.com, gardenmontessori school.com, Grades: pre-school thru Kdg. ages 3-6 years old.

Mercy M ontessori Center Mercy Montessori provides a world-class education and a strong foundation for learning and discovery as Greater Cincinnati’s first and oldest Montessori school. Started in 1969, Mercy Montessori is a private, independent Catholic Montessori School offering personalized educational experiences for children from preschool through eighth grade.

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

T he N ew S chool Montessori Centrally located and surrounded by wooded play yards and gardens, students benefit from a nurturing environment where Montessori-credentialed staff support high academic and personal achievement.

Full-day, half-day and part-time AMS and ISACS accredited programs with healthy lunches included in tuition.

3 Burton Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229, Contact: Ceara Comstock, Phone: (513)281-7999, Email: ceara.c@ newschoolmontessori.com, www.newschoolmontessori. 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 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, Email: academy@gbs.edu, aldersgatechristianacademy.webs. com, Grades: K - 12, Enrollment: 140

AR CH BI S HOP M C N ICHOL A S H IGH S CHO OL Archbishop McNicholas High School promotes a Christ-centered, Catholic community that embraces each student – spiritually, intellectually, morally, and physically.

We provide a safe, nurturing, creative, and challenging campus where individuals will grow in knowledge and faith. We equip our students with opportunities and experiences that will enable them to achieve excellence, live out gospel values, and attain full stature in Christ.

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

41

6536 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, Oh 45230, Contact: Christina Mullis, Director of Admissions and Enrollment, Phone: 513-231-3500, www. mcnhs.org, Grades: 9-12, Enrollment: 640

Bethany S chool 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.

11525 Snider Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Natalie Pfister, Enrollment Director, Phone: (513)247-0900, Email: admissions@chca-oh.org, www.chca-oh.org, Grades: Preschool 3 - Grade 12, Enrollment: 1350

GUARDI A N A NGE L S S CHO OL Guardian Angels School was named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence in 2007 and continues to lead the way in education by providing programs and employing teaching strategies that are engaging and challenging for all students. Every day we foster the development of the whole child in a value-enriched environment. Visit our Open House is January 31 from 1-3pm at the school!

6539 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45230, Phone: 513.624.3141, www.gaschool.org/, Grades: K through 8

Mother of Mercy H igh S chool Mother of Mercy is a Catholic College Preparatory School for young women, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas and members of the Mercy Education Collaborative of Cincinnati, inspiring, educating and empowering young women to become faith-filled leaders through the Core Values of the Sisters of Mercy: Faith, Compassion, Service, Leadership and Excellence. Join us at our Open House on Sunday, November 1 from 1 - 3 p.m. to explore all that Mother of Mercy has to offer!

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

42

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

R ockwern Academy

[PUBLIC]

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.

C incinnati P ublic S Chools

8401 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, OH 45236, Phone: 513-984-3770, Email: info@ rockwernacademy.org, www.rockwernacademy. 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.

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

Our goal is to provide a rigorous curiculum that cultivates critical thinking and technology skills while encouraging collaboration, real-world connections and endless creativity. It’s not just about getting your children ready for graduation.

It’s about getting them into college and preparing them for a thriving career!

Phone: 513-363-0123, cps-k12.org

Great Oaks C areer C ampuses Great Oaks offers career development training for high school students and adults. With four campuses--Scarlet Oaks in Sharonville, Diamond Oaks in Dent, Live Oaks in MIlford, and Laurel Oaks in Wilmington, high school students prepare for careers and college, and adults get training and certification to begin a new career or advance in a current career.

3254 East Kemper Road, Cincinnati, OH 45040, Contact: Jon Weidlich, Phone: 513-771-8840, Email: weidlicj@greatoaks.com, www.greatoaks. com, Grades: High school (grades 11-12) and Adult

[SPECIaL NEEDS] S pringer S chool and Center

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 Christ-centered spirit of St. Angela Merici cultivates independent learners who achieve their potential through small classes, individualized instruction, and nurturing of the whole child. Program offerings begin with Toddler/2-year-old and Traditional or Montessori preschool continuing through Junior High, recognized for outstanding high school preparation.

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

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] S Y LVA N LE AR N I NG Center S OF C I NC I NNAT I For more than 30 years, Sylvan has helped more than two million students learn to read, write, calculate and organize themselves to reach their potential inside and outside of the classroom.

More importantly, Sylvan has helped children develop a love of learning and a confidence that they carry throughout their lives. Programs for students K-12: Reading, Writing, Math, Robotics, Coding, Study Skills, Homework Help, Test Prep.

Anderson: 513-231-6000, Crestview Hills: 859-3445080, Northgate: 513-755-4949, West Chester: 513-755-4949, www.sylvanlearning.com

BE PART OF OUR MONTHLY EDUCATION GUIDE // CON TACT K ATIE@CINCINNATIPARENT. com

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

43

GROW I N G H E A LT H Y FA M I L I E S

The Positive Side of Peer Pressure How the influence of classmates can be a good thing Sarah Painer, MSW, LISW-S, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital

Of course, peer pressure has its down side too. How can you help your teen resist the negative influence of others?

• Encourage your child to listen to their intuition. Tell them that if they are feeling uncomfortable in a situation their gut is telling them something is wrong.

• Prepare and plan for scenarios that may involve peer pressure. Help your child think ahead about what they would say or do in the event they feel coerced into acting in a way they don’t want to.

As parents know, dealing with peer pressure is part of growing up. It’s normal for teens to feel swayed by a group and be compelled to fit in.

While we typically think of peer pressure in a negative way, the influence of peers can easily be positive as well. Think of the athlete who is pushed to work harder because his teammates are depending on him, or the student who studies a little longer because she wants to keep up with a classmate who is also a good student.

There are many ways peers can pressure each other to behave in constructive ways. Kids that are routinely honest, nice, courageous, respectful or grateful demonstrate these positive attributes to others. Teens can inspire each other to avoid smoking, drugs or alcohol. Teens who decide to start a diet or exercise program together can root each other on. Local teen Ashley says that her peers helped shape her thoughts about her future. “All my friends were going to college and I never really considered it an option to 44

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

not go. We were all excited to get our books, prepare for living in the dorms, shopping for supplies together, etc.

There was excitement and positivity around that experience.” Teens who feel confident in themselves can resist the pressure of others urging them to act in ways they aren’t prepared for. Sixteenyear-old Brayanna says, “There is a feeling in high school that everyone is having sex and I was feeling pressured to engage in that behavior. I had a partner but just felt that I wasn’t ready for it, so I told him ‘no.’ He ended moving on to someone else and that was OK with me.”

Peers can offer each other a sense of belonging and acceptance. They can help each other make difficult decisions, problem solve for new solutions and offer moral support. The influence of just one supportive peer can have a profound impact on a teen’s life.

• Have your child get comfortable saying “no.” No other explanation is required, although if they feel the need to “blame” their parents for not engaging in a risky or undesirable behavior, that is perfectly acceptable as well.

• Encourage your teen to spend time with friends who are like them. Have them align with peers who have a similar belief system and values. Embolden your teen to be confident and lead by example.

Tell them to feel good about their ability to resist peer pressure.

The teen years are a time when many children begin to identify with peers more than parents. Encourage kids to find others that support them and reinforce their best qualities. Allow kids to have the freedom to have experiences, take chances and possibly make mistakes. With a group of likeminded friends, they can take advantage of the effect that positive peer pressure can have to keep them on the path of good decision making.

OCTOBER EVENTS

DAILY calendar

OCTOBER 2015 FRI 02

SAT 03

Show Us Your Smiles It’s World Smile Day! Did you know that smiles are contagious and actually make you feel better?

What a perfect reason to celebrate! Come share your happy faces with us for this very special event as we read exceptional stories that make us smile. We will create a smilin’ snack to enjoy following our story time. Please note: we will be using peanut butter for this snack. $2/child. Best for ages 5-7. Call 513-731-2665 to reserve your spot.

Kids’ Cookie Workshop with Suz anne Montgomery This class teaches the fundamentals of making homemade marshmallows to have with madefrom-scratch hot cocoa. Kids will love creating their own dessert masterpieces — and snacking too! $37/student. Recommended for kids ages 10-14.

Time: 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Location: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore, http://www.blue manateebooks.com/, Phone: 513-731-2665

FRI 02 – SAT 03 Family Camping Overnight Spend quality time with your family while experienced CNC staff lead nighttime adventures during this unique camping experience. We’ll set up camp, enjoy campfire treats together and experience the magic Rowe Woods at night on a hike. Bring your camping gear and your favorite camping meals. Member adult $17, child $8; nonmember adult $25, child $11. Nonmember fee includes daily admission to Rowe Woods.

Pre-registration required by September 25.

Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, cincynature. org, Phone: 513-831-1711

FRI 02 – SUN 04 Kentucky Wool Festival More than 30 food vendors, petting zoo, pony rides, goat milking, working herd dogs, country, gospel and bluegrass music, clogging and square dancing. Demonstrations include sheep shearing; weaving and spinning; knitting; blacksmithing; leather works; corn grinding; sorghum, candle, broom, pottery and jewelry making; homemade apple butter, stone carving, quilting and more.

Location: Falmouth Festival Grounds, http://www. kywoolfest.org/, Phone: 859-654-3378

Donaushwaben Oktoberfest Considered the Tri-state’s “most authentic” Oktoberfest, this weekend-long event features continuous live German music and dance performers, and wide selection of food and drink including over 25 German and domestic beers, pit-roasted Bavarian pig and chicken and sausage. Convenient shuttle parking.

Times: Friday 6pm -12am, Saturday 2pm-12am, Sunday 10am-8pm, Location: Donauschwaben Park, https://www.facebook.com/ events/443442135834270/

46

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

Time: 11:00 am - 1:30 pm, Location: Cooks’ Wares, http://www.cookswaresonline.com/ CooksWares%20Cooking%20Classes%20Page. html, Phone: 513-489-6400

Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Walk to End Al zheimer’s Help raise awareness and funds for the fight against Alzheimer’s by joining the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Cincinnati on October 3 for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. 3 mile walk.

Registration is free; donations accepted.

Time:10:00 am - 1:00 pm, Location: Sawyer Point, http://act.alz.org/site/TR/Walk2015/OHGreaterCincinnati?fr_id=7709&pg=entry, Phone: 513-721-4284

SAT 03 – SUN 04 Sunflower Festival Stroll through the fields of golden sunflowers while collecting some to take home, pick your favorite pumpkin to launch, take on a hayride and visit with the animals at Gorman Heritage Farm’s Sunflower Festival. Enjoy delicious food from local food trucks and music and crafts from local artisans all while exploring the beautiful living history of a working farm, founded in 1835. This annual celebration of the fall harvest is a local favorite, receiving recognition as one of the best events in the state according to Ohio Magazine. Join us for Gorman Heritage Farm’s 12th Annual Sunflower Festival. There’s something for everyone at the Farm!

Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, Location: Gorman Heritage Farm, http://gormanfarm.org/product/ sunflower-festival, Phone: 513-563-6663

SUN 04 Mermaids and Pirate Breakfast Enjoy breakfast with your family in our Riverside Room, overlooking a spectacular view of the Ohio River and Downtown Cincinnati.

After breakfast, you’ll be invited into the Aquarium before we open to the general public.

All guests get exclusive access to meet a mermaid up-close and out of the water during a meet and greet, and see a mermaid swim in our Coral Reef

Exhibit. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet and greet with a pirate in the during breakfast.

Cost: $42.00, Passholders: $32.00, Time: 8:30 am - 10:00 am, Location: Newport Aquarium, www. newportaquarium.com, Phone: 859-815-1471

Cincinnati Bengals vs. K ansas City Chiefs Come cheer on the Bengals as they take on the Chiefs! Who dey!

Time: 1:00 pm, Location: Paul Brown Stadium, http://www.bengals.com

TUES 06 – SUN 11 Nature ’s Colors All the colors of a rainbow will join us for this program! We will talk about ways to hear a rainbow, see a rainbow, eat a rainbow and then we will play with a rainbow. Glenwood Gardens/ Highfield Discovery Garden. Program included in Highfield admission: $5/adult, $4/child ages 2-12.

Location: Glenwood Gardens, http://www. greatparks.org/calendar#

TUES 06 Nature ’s Stories: Autumn Parents and children, join the naturalist for a story and activity all about the crisp fall season!

Storytimes at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Sharon Woods/Sharon Centre.

Cost: Free, Time: 11:00 am - 11:30 am, Location: Sharon Woods, http://www.greatparks.org/ calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

WEDS 07 Little T ykes Bring your 3–6 year-old for an eight-legged creature feature. Spiders come in all shapes and sizes and bring unique surprises to our world.

Here is your chance to learn about these helpful secret neighbors! Winton Woods/Winton `Centre. Free.

Time: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm, Location: Winton Woods, http://www.greatparks.org/calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

THURS 08 Echo Bats Learn about bat habits and see live bats with Kathy Edelen from Echo Bats!

Time: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm, Location: St. Bernard Branch, http://programs.cincinnatilibrary.org/, Phone: 513-369-4462

FRI 09 – SAT 10 River Grill Before the Big Chill The River Grill before the Big Chill is a 2-day food and music festival celebrating barbecue, local brews, cooking and hometown music. Kids Zone with activities and a bounce house!

Proceeds from River Grill will benefit the waterfront park: Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park, Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove.

Time: Oct. 9, 5:00-11:00 pm; Oct. 10, noon-9:00 pm, Location: Sawyer Point, http://www. cincinnatiparks.com/rivergrill/

Queen Bee Half M arathon The Queen Bee Half Marathon is on a mission: to promote the fun of fitness while raising support and funds for local charities that focus on women. Race weekend starts Friday with a Bee-u-tique expo at Duke Energy Convention Center from 11 am – 8 pm. On Saturday morning, meet your family and friends at the starting line for the Queen Bee Half Marathon at 7:30 am. Not quite feeling up to the whole 13.1 miles? No problem. Buzz through Saturday’s 4 Mile Walk/Run through downtown Cincinnati instead. It starts at 8 am, and you’ll be done in time to meet your half-marathoners at the finish line! Both races start and end at the Horseshoe Casino, and afterwards, all participants will enjoy special swag, chocolates, massages, Queen Bee medal and an incredible after party!

Location: Duke Energy Convention Center, http:// queenbeehalf.com/

FRI 09 Meet the Mermaids; Cruise with the Pirates Ahoy mateys and welcome ocean princesses!

This mermaid and pirate combo ticket offers your wee lads and lasses a day full of fun at Newport Aquarium and BB Riverboats and even includes a picnic lunch. Your day begins at the Newport Aquarium where you’ll discover the magic of the world famous Weeki Wachee Mermaids. Be amazed as you watch them swim underwater with their favorite Aquarium animals in the coral reef exhibit. Plus, meet a mermaid up-close and out of the water. Board the Captain’s boat for an afternoon cruise full of fun and games for the entire family. Your kids will pick up their free pirate hat and eye patch, get a pirate tattoo and participate in pirate games. Use your treasure map to collect your bounty before the cruise pulls back into dock.

See website for pricing and full day schedule.

Time: 10:00 am - 4:30 pm, Location: Newport Aquarium, www.newportaquarium.com, Phone: 859-815-1471

All About Night Register your 2–4 year-old for this exciting program all about what’s happening in nature when we are asleep. The program will be followed by a storytime and a craft. Miami Whitewater Forest/Visitor Center. Cost is $6/ child, register by 10/7.

SAT 10 Trunk ‘R Treat and Classic Car Show Car show, children’s activities, food and music.

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

Time: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm, Location: Miami Whitewater Forest, http://www.greatparks.org/ calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

Time: 2:30 pm - 6:00 pm, Location: Beech Acres Park, http://www.andersonparks.com/ trunkrtreat.html, Phone: (513) 388-4513

Oakley After Hours Mad Tree beer, kids’ entertainment and live music. Free shuttles from 7 p.m.-1 a.m. around Hyde Park and Oakley.

Harvest Moon Festival Enjoy s’mores, crafts, hayrides, food, entertainment, pony rides, crafts and face painting.

Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Location: Oakley Square, http://www.oakleynow.com, Phone: 513-5339039

SAT 10 – SUN 11 Ohio Sauerkraut Festival The Ohio Sauerkraut Festival has grown from a small local event in 1970 to one of the premier craft festivals in the nation. The festival’s unique food offerings range from sauerkraut pizza to fudge. Visitors return year after year to sample their favorites, making the Ohio Sauerkraut Festival a favorite Midwest destination!

Times: Sat, Oct. 10, 9:00 am to 8:00 pm and Sun, Oct. 11, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, Location: Downtown Waynesville, http://www.sauerkrautfestival.com/

2015 Cincinnati Train and Trade Show Our large and very popular annual Cincinnati Model Train and Trade Show will be on Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11, 11 am – 5 pm each day. This will be the 48th annual edition of this huge fun-filled family and hobbyist event! Come see model trains in all scales, lots of displays and even enter to win door prizes and a G scale train set!

Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Location: Swaim Park, http://www.montgomeryohio.org/pages/ swaim-park/, Phone: (513) 891-2424

SUN 11 Cincinnati Chocolate Festival Join us Sunday, October 11th for the sixth annual Cincinnati Chocolate Festival at the Cintas Center at Xavier University. Designed for chocolate lovers of all ages, this delectable event will feature tempting chocolate tastings from delicious local vendors, celebrity chef demonstrations, contests, raffle baskets, children’s activities and much more. This spectacular event will tempt your palate and indulge your chocolate cravings to your absolute delight and satisfaction.

Time: 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Location: Xavier University Cintas Center, http://cincinnati chocolatefestival.com/, Phone: 937-620-9255

Location: Lakota West High School, http://www.cincy-div7.org/events. html, Phone: 513-662-RAIL

Black Walnut Weekend 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.

Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve/Ellenwood Nature Barn.

Time: Noon-4:00 pm, Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, http://www.greatparks.org/ calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

MEET THE MER M AIDS AND C R U I S E W I T H T H E P I R AT E S AT T H E N E W P O R T AQ UAR I U M , F R I DAY, O C T O B E R 9 T H

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

47

The Great Pumpkin Fest Free family festival featuring: Not-So-Scary Haunted Trail, Pony Rides, Petting Zoo, Inflatable Amusements, Horse and Wagon Rides, Feed Corn Play Area, and much more!

Time: 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm, Location: Keehner Park, http://www.westchesteroh.org/pumpkinfest.cfm

MON 12 Kids’ Day at the Park: Leaves for Little Folks Let’s learn all about leaves! Bring your little naturalist to have some fun with leaves. A craft, hike and more is included. Cost is $6/child, and is payable at the door Time: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm, Location: FarbachWerner Nature Preserve, http://www.greatparks. org/calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

TUES 13 - WEDS 14 Growing up a Farm Kid: Spooky Farm Explore the woods at Parky’s Farm and learn about our creepy, crawly friends like snakes, turtles and toads. For kids ages 2–5 accompanied by an adult. Fee is $10/child + one free adult, $5/additional adult. Please register by 10/11.

Time: 9:30 am - 11:30 am, Location: Winton Woods, http://www.greatparks.org/calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

TUES 13 Art for Kids: M atisse!

Learn about the French artist Henri Matisse (1869-1954), then make an abstract collage in his colorful style! Co-sponsored by the Kennedy Heights Arts Center.

Time: 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Location: Pleasant Ridge Branch, http://programs.cincinnatilibrary.org/, Phone: 513-369-4488

THURS 15

FRI 16 – SUN 18

M adlot Summer Series Madlot is the parking lot that was creatively transformed into an outdoor performance park.

There will be live music, a farmers market, food and drinks, and free bike tune ups from 4-8 p.m.

FREE!

Apple Butter Stirrin’ Festival Host to a wide variety of artisans and crafters, this invitational festival celebrates the sights, sounds and scents of autumn. Smell the fresh apple butter simmering over an open fire as you stroll through the street to the tunes of bluegrass and music from days gone-by. You’ll also find raffles and contests to enter. Events throughout the weekend include Canal Town Journey Tours, eerie Spirit of Roscoe tours, canal boat rides, and children’s activity area.

Time: 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Location: MadLot, https://www.facebook.com/ renaissancecovington, Phone: (859) 292-2163

Ghouls and Ghosts Campfire Stories Join us for a hair-raising evening! The Cincinnati Storytellers Guild will tell bewitching tales of ghosts, goblins and legends. We will gather before a warm fire, but don’t let bad weather scare you away–we can move indoors if the weather grows dark! Free!

Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, http://www.greatparks.org/ calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

FRI 16 The Wiz ard of Oz The Wizard of Oz is an American fairy tale! The Frisch Marionettes turn it into an inspiring story about unlocking the potential that exists within each of us! Celebrate America’s rich musical heritage as you travel down the Yellow Brick Road with Dorothy to find out why a Lion, Tin Man and Straw Man are all singing the Blues.

Recommended for grades K-8. Admission is $7/ person or season tickets are $15 for all three shows!

Time: 7:00 pm, Location: Calico Children’s Theatre at UC Clermont College, http://ucclermont.edu/ community/arts, Phone: 513-558-ARTS

FRI 16 – SUN 18 & SAT 24 – SUN 25 The Little Mermaid Jr .

Audiences will dive into the 2015-2016 TCTC season with Ariel and her aquatic friends in Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. which has been adapted from Disney’s 2008 Broadway production. In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid Ariel longs to leave her ocean home – and her fins – behind and be part of the world above. But first she’ll defy her father King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch Ursula, and convince the handsome Prince Eric that she’s the girl with the enchanting voice that he has been seeking. Check website for `daily times.

Location: Taft Theatre, https://www.thechildrens theatre.com, Phone: 513.569.8080 ext. 10

T H E G R E AT P U M P K I N F E S T AT K E E H N E R PAR K , S U N DAY, O C T O B E R 1 1T H

48

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

Location: Roscoe Village, http://www. roscoevillage.com/index.php/things-to-do/ festivals-and-events, Phone: 740-622-7644

FRI 16, FRI 23 & FRI 30 Pumpkin Patch at Parky ’s Farm 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.

Pre-register online by 10/13: $6/child, $2.50/ adult; Day of event: $7/child, $3/adult.

Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm, Location: Winton Woods, http://www.greatparks.org/calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

SAT 17 Fossil Fest On Oct. 17, head to the Museum of Natural History & Science to meet with paleontologists and geologists and have your own found fossils identified. Experience one of the largest trilobite collections in the Tri-State region, view original pieces of artwork in our Spineless Wonders Student Art Competition and participate in scavenger hunts and other hands-on activities.

Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, http://www. cincymuseum.org/events/fossil-fest, Phone: (513) 287-7000

Books by the Banks The ninth annual Books by the Banks book festival, a free event presented by Ohio Humanities, is one of the biggest and most prestigious events of its kind in the Midwest.

Meet local, regional and national best-selling national authors, visit the Kids’ Corner and the Teen Scene, and attend panel discussions and writing workshops.

Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 am, Location: Duke Energy Convention Center, www.BooksByTheBanks.org

First Face-Off Cyclones Hockey Cyclones kick off the 2015-16 Season with $1 John Morrell Hotdogs, Donatos Pizza, Soda, and Beer! Fans will receive a Cyclones magnet!

Time: 6:30 pm, http://cycloneshockey.com/ game/2015/10/17/first-face-off

SUN 18 Petcasso Art Show & Sale FAMILY FUN! Admission is free. Come and Enjoy a day of Arts & Crafts, Jewelery, Entertainment. Food and soft drinks available for purchase and there will be special activities and vendors for children – Facepainting, Tattoos, Coloring. (Indoor conference area location) www.facebook.com/petcassocincinnati). This is a fundraiser to benefit Pets In Need’s mission to provide vet care and assistance for the pets of lower income families. (http://www.pincincinnati.org) Time: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Location: Mayerson JCC, www.Petcasso.org, Phone: 513-703-7474

3rd Sunday Funday: Fabulous Fall Funday!

Halloween is on its way—start the fun at Fabulous ``Fall Funday! Make a fall decoration to take home, meet some live “spooky” animals, become an art detective at the Art Cart, and enjoy a performance of Little Red Riding Hood by ArtReach at 2 p.m. (ideal for kids in grades K–5).

Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Location: Taft Museum of Art, www.taftmuseum.org/, Phone: (513) 241-0343

TUES 20 Kids Activity Hour – Pumpkin Piz a zz!

Make a pumpkin craft! Play pumpkin Bingo! Win a prize! All Materials Provided. Families Welcome.

Time: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm, Location: Miami Township Branch Library, http://programs.cincinnatilibrary.org/, Phone: 513-369-6050

THURS 22 Animal Tales Nature has many stories to tell. Families are invited to join a naturalist for a nature-themed story. Free!

Time: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm, Location: Woodland Mound, http://www.greatparks.org/calendar#, Phone: `513-521-7275

Mockingjay Cornucopia Challenge In honor for the theatrical finale to the Hunger Games series, retrieve items from cornucopia stashes located throughout the library and use whatever materials you gather to complete a series of challenges. Whoever does the best job completing the tasks will win a prize!

Grades 6-12 only.

Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Location: Harrison Branch Library, http://programs.cincinnatilibrary.org, Phone: 513-369-4442

FRI 23 – SUN 25 Run and Ride Turn the thrill of the ride into the thrill of the run! The second annual Run and Ride Series at Kings Island will have you screaming like a Banshee from ear-to-ear with a half-marathon, 10k and 5k Glow Run to choose from.

Visit the Run & Ride website for more information about each race and to register.

Location: Kings Island, http://www.runand riderace.com

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

49

FRI 23 Halloween Jamboree Bring your 3–5 year-old to this month’s jamboree.

Through crafts and activities, we will learn all about the creepy crawlers of Halloween. $6/child, register by 10/21.

Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, Location: Woodland Mound, http://www.greatparks.org/calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

Teenspot ’s Annual Halloween Bash Celebrate everyone’s favorite spooky holiday with Maker-inspired crafts, games, sweet treats, and more. School-appropriate costumes are welcome.

Teens ages 12-18/Grades 6-12 only!

Time: 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm, Location, Main Library, http://programs.cincinnatilibrary.org/, Phone: 513-369-6900

SAT 24 – SUN 25 Great Train Robbery As you enjoy a 2 hour train ride through the Rolling Fork River Valley, be on guard for a gang of robbers rumored to be in the New Haven area, not to worry though, law enforcement will be on hand to protect our passengers. It’s a whole lot of fun, don’t forget your camera. Passengers can surrender their loot to benefit the Crusade for Children.

Location: Kentucky Railway Museum, http://www. kyrail.org, Phone: 800-272-0152

SAT 24 BatFest BatFest is always one of our favorite Museum holidays, but this year, we’re blowing it out of the bat cave. Chat with the experts who will dispel all the dark myths you’ve heard about bat behavior, meet our Big Brown Bat colony and watch them take flight every hour and sample some food pollinated by bats. Witness the Cincinnati Grotto members scale 106 feet to the top of the Rotunda, always a crowd pleaser. Channel your inner Batgirl or Batman by creating a superhero mask for the costume parade, and test your IQ in Batty Brain – a twist on the classic game of Jeopardy.

Don’t miss out on a day that even Dracula would be proud of!

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

Saturday Morning Children’s Series: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow The lanky schoolmaster, Ichabod Crane, can’t decide what’s worse in the glen of Sleepy Hollow, the headless horseman or the silliest of ghosts, the horseless headman. To complicate matters, Ichabod unwittingly vies with the local brute, Brom Bones, for the affections of Katrina Van Tassal. Ichabod endures a series of pranks and ghost stories, only to find himself on the ride of his life in this hilarious version of Washington Irving’s classic short story. Tickets $6 per show or $25 for all 5 shows in the series.

50

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

Time: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, Location: Covedale Center for the Performing Arts, http://www.cincinnati landmarkproductions.com/ccpa/ChildrensSeries. aspx, Phone: 513-241-6551

Kids Fall Fest Kids Fall Fest returns to Washington Park! Join us for a FREE, fun-filled afternoon featuring puppet shows, magic tricks, face painting, stilt walkers, a pumpkin patch and more! Full activity schedule available on the website.

Time: 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Location: Washington Park, http://washingtonpark.org/event/kids-fallfest-6/, Phone: 513-621-4400

Heritage Halloween Celebration At Dinsmore Homestead’s Heritage Halloween Celebration, children get the chance to dress up and trick-or-treat at historic buildings. The Dinsmore Homestead is a unique historic site where visitors can learn what rural life was like in the 19th and early 20th centuries. On October 24 fro 5-8 pm, head to this historic village in Burlington, KY, for a night of crafts, trick-ortreating, storytelling and old-fashioned fun and entertainment.

Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Location: Dinsmore Homestead, http://www.dinsmorefarm.org/event/ heritage-halloween-celebration/, Phone: 859-586-6117

SUN 25 Family Day: Witchy Witchy Bring in the kids for Family Day! Recommended ages 10+. $30/seat.

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm, Location: Cheers to Art, https://www.cheerstoart.com/quick-signup. php?eventid=7058, Phone: 513-271-2793

Boo Run Run This costumed event will take place at the Wyoming Recreations Center starting with a pumpkin dash for the little ones at 5:30. The 5K run will start at 6:00 pm. After the 5K, runners and spectators can watch the costume contest, hang out at the post race party, and get ready to be spooked at the Haunted Trail. All registered runners get free entry into the haunted trail.

Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm, Location: Wyoming Recreation Center, http://wyomingyouthservices. com/events/run-for-the-kids-5k-halloweenspooktacular/, Phone: 513-821-2428, Ext. 5

WEDS 28 - SUN 01 Disney on Ice Presents: Treasure Trove Discover endless riches when Disney On Ice presents Treasure Trove Presented by Stonyfield YoKids Organic Yogurt comes to your hometown!

Get tangled up in Disney’s 50th animated feature with Rapunzel and Flynn and enter the worlds of your favorite Disney princesses: Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine, Aurora, Tiana, Mulan and, of course, the one who started it all, Snow White.

Set sail with Peter Pan, the always sassy Tinker Bell and the cantankerous Captain Hook & his pirate pals on an adventure beyond Never Land!

Trek the wilds of Africa with Simba, Nala, Pumbaa and Timon as they discover the true meaning of the ‘Circle of Life.’ Tick-Tock!

Tick-Tock! Don’t be late to a very important date with Alice & the Mad Hatter as they march with the Queen of Hearts’ Army Of Cards. You won’t want to miss this show full of Disney treasures to remember.

Location: U.S. Bank Arena, http://www. ticketmaster.com/Disney-On-Ice-presentsTreasure-Trove-tickets/artist/1606655?tm_ link=tm_homeA_b_10003_2, Phone: 800-745-3000

THURS 29 Midwest Cheer Elite Trunk or Treat Come in costume and bring a friend and join us for a FREE Trunk or Treat… Hayrides, vendors and plenty of candy for all!! Ages 13 and younger. Admission is FREE! Time: 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm, Location: In the Skatetown USA/ Midwest Cheer Elite back parking lot!, www. midwestcheerelite.com, Phone: (513) 779-9111

FRI 30 Halloween Costume Contest Fountain Square’s ninth annual costume contest returns Friday, October 30! Come to the Square dressed in your funniest, scariest or most creative costume at noon for your chance to win some fantastic prizes. Adults, children and groups all welcome!

Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm, Location: Fountain Square, http://myfountainsquare.com/event/ halloween-costume-contest/, Phone: 513-6214400

Boo M anatee! (National Candy Corn Day) Boo to you! We are celebrating this time of year with a Boo Manatee themed event! Come dressed in a costume (if you’d like) and listen to some not-so-scary stories and take part in a small scavenger hunt around the store. We will pair up in teams of two to find the clues that will take us to the next, and the next and the next.

Since it is National Candy Corn Day, we will finish up with a sample of the tasty treat! Boo! $2/child. Best for ages 5-7. Call 513-731-2665 to reserve your spot.

Time: 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Location: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore, http://www. bluemanateebooks.com/, Phone: 513-731-2665

SAT 31 Lollipops Family Concerts: Symphony Spooktacular Costumes are encourages at this family-friendly concert of fun and spooky music, including Night on Bald Mountain and music from Harry Potter! Come early for Family Fun Zone activities!

Time: 10:30 am - 1:00 pm, Location: Music Hall, http://www.cincinnatipops.org/concerts-plusevents/pops/lollipops-family-concerts/ lollipops-2015-16/symphony-spooktacular/, Phone: 513-621-1919

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

51

ONGOING EVENTS Ohio Renaissance F estival Saturdays and Sundays through October 25th Fair with 16th century theme. Jousting, displays, costumed performers, entertainment stages, arts and crafts shops and concessions. Rain or shine.

Time: 10:30 am -6:00 pm, Location: 10542 E. Ohio 73, Harveysburg, www.renfestival.com/, Phone: (513) 897-7000

Old W est F estival Saturdays and Sundays through October 18th Relive days of Wild West in unique entertainment experience. Re-enactments, trick shooting and roping, demonstrations, rides, food and music.

Free parking. Rain or shine. $12, $6 ages 6-12; free ages 5 and under.

Time: 10:00 am-6:00 pm, Location: 1449 Greenbush Cobb Rd., Williamsburg, www. oldwestfestival.com, Phone: (513) 304-0444

W eeki Watchi Mermaids at N ewport Occurring Daily through October 12th For a limited time, discover the magic of the world-famous Weeki Wachee Mermaids when they splash into Newport Aquarium! Be amazed during the daily mermaid appearances as you watch them swim underwater with their favorite Newport Aquarium animals. Plus, meet a mermaid up-close and out of the water during one of our daily meet and greet times. It’s all free with admission ticket or a Newport Aquarium Annual Pass.

Time: 10:00 am-6:00 pm, Location: Newport Aquarium, Newport, KY, http://www. newportaquarium.com/What-to-do-incincinnati/Aquarium-Events/Mermaids?sd=1, Phone: (859) 261-7444

K inman Farms Fall F estival Now through October 30th Corn maze, animals, hayrides, bonfires, pony rides, face painting, pumpkin patch, games and more! Open every Friday (5pm-10pm), Saturday (10am-10pm) and Sunday (12pm-7pm) from September 20-October 30.

Location: Kinman Family Farms, http://www. kinmanfarmsfallfest.com/Fall-FestivalInformation.html, Phone: 859-689-2682

A Bevy of Blossoms and a F lock of F lowers Now through Oct. 25 Fall Chrysanthemum show at Krohn Conservatory. Coupon available online.

Location: Krohn Conservatory, http://www. cincinnatiparks.com/krohn, Phone: 513-421-5707

A ntiq ue Halloween at the Taft Wednesdays-Sundays, now through November 1st Experience Halloween as earlier generations did when the Taft presents a one-room display of antiques from local collectors during this fun holiday. Ranging in date from 1900 to the 1950s, the objects on view will recall tricks and treats from earlier eras. Lanterns, candle shades, and jack-o-lanterns—all designed to light up the darkness—evoke the nighttime setting of Halloween celebrations. Toys, games, candycups, and room decorations masquerade as black cats, skeletons, witches, and goblins in oldfashioned styles will take you back years into the past. Open Wednesday through Friday, 11 a.m.

– 4 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed Mondays, Tuesdays and major holidays. Admission is free for all on Sundays.

Time: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm, Location: Taft Museum of Art, http://www.taftmuseum.org/?page_ id=4628, Phone: (513) 241-0343

S noopy ’ s Halloween Party Saturdays and Sundays, October 3rd through November 1st What’s something fun everyone can do together as a family this Halloween? At Snoopy’s Halloween Party at Kings Island, you’ll find lots of family-friendly fun, all in one place. Snoopy’s Halloween Party starts October 3 and runs every Saturday and Sunday in the fall through November 1. Trick-or-treating, live shows, a pumpkin patch, hay bale maze, kids costume contest, a petting farm plus all of your favorite rides are all part of the fun. Snoopy’s Halloween Party is included with park admission to Kings Island.

Location: Kings Island, https://www. visitkingsisland.com/events/things-to-do/ events-and-promotions/Snoopys-HalloweenParty-Opening-Day, Phone: (513) 754-5700

HallZO Oween October 3 – 4, 10 – 11, 17 – 18 and 24 – 25 Little ghouls and boys can enjoy four spooktacular weekends of fun in October.

HallZOOween is free with general admission, and include Trick-or-Treat Stations, Special Animal Encounters and Phil Dalton’s Theater of Illusion Show. Additional charges apply for the Hogwarts Express Train Ride and Scare-ousels for non-members. Kids are encouraged to wear a costume during HallZOOween, and go green by bringing their own treat bags!

Time: 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, http://cincinnatizoo. org/events/hallzooween/, Phone: (513) 281-4700

T he Art of the Brick October 23rd through May 8th The Art of the Brick features over 100 works of art by contemporary artist Nathan Sawaya – made entirely of Legos! This is the first major museum exhibition to use Lego bricks as the sole art medium. The Art of the Brick features Lego recreations of classic works such as the Mona Lisa, Starry Night, The Scream, the Sphinx and the Thinker. This exhibit also includes an interactive element, with a 5,000 square foot section of Lego-filled tubs inviting guests to get creative.

Exhibit open daily; check website for museum hours.

Time: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, https://www.cincymuseum.org/ exhibits/art-of-the-brick, Phone: (513) 287-7000

C ’mon Along: Take a R iverboat Cruise Now through November 15th Relive the days of river excursion travel through this exhibit of riverboat photography and promotional materials on display in the Main Library’s Joseph S. Stern, Jr. Cincinnati Room Aug. 7–Nov. 15. The exhibit features historical photos, fliers, and brochures from the Greene Line Steamers and the famous Delta Queen, the Island Queen, and other excursion boats that serviced Coney Island.

Location: Main Library, http://www. cincinnatilibrary.org/programs/exhibits.html, Phone: 513-369-6944

Halloween N ights Thursdays through Sundays, October 8th – 25th Join in on the spooky, hardly-haunted fun at Parky’s Farm! The event features thousands of twinkling lights, festive Halloween displays and family-fun activities and entertainment. Winton Woods/Parky’s Farm. Pre-order tickets online: $6/person; Tickets at gate: $7/person; Free/kids under 2.

Time: 6:00 pm-10:00 pm, Location: Winton Woods, http://www.greatparks.org/calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

Fall F estival at Blooms & Berries Occurring Daily through October 31st Join us this season with your family for adventure on the farm, featuring even MORE fun this fall!

Including a 7 acre corn maze (“The Great Honey Caper”), pumpkin patch hayrides (through “I Spy” Woods) on Saturdays and Sundays, caramel apples and fresh apple cider, cow train rides, straw maze, farm animals, and so much more!

Hours: Mon-Sat 10 am -7 pm; Sun 10 am - 6 pm.

Note: the farm will close at 4 pm on Oct. 31, Location: Blooms & Berries Farm Market, http:// bloomsandberriesfarmmarket.com/blooms-berriesfarm-market-fun-farm-activities.php, Phone: (513) 697-9173

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 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

53

54

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

PRESCHOOL & DAYCARE

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

55

56

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

ENRICHMENT & AFTERSCHOOL ACTIVITIES

PARTIES & ENTERTAINMENT

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

57

58

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // OCTOBER 2015

FAMILY SERVICES

FUN &WACKY

CINCINNaTI PaRENT // OCTOBER 2015

sun

MOn

TUES

WEDS

THURS

FRI

S AT

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

OCTOBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

59