November & December 2020 | Dayton Parent by Midwest Parenting Publications

NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER 2020

(FREE)

give the gift of experience

MUSIC

TO OUR EARS!

THE 5 BENEFITS OF MUSICAL LESSONS

put the focus on memories this holiday season

THE ADOPTION OPTION

November 2020 I ohParent.com

contents

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

features

The Adoption Option

5 Brain-Boosting Benefits of Music Lessons

Are you ready to welcome a child into your family through adoption or foster care?

Music education supports many kinds of learning throughout a child's life.

Give the Gift of Experiences Support your favorite local places and small businesses this holiday season.

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

Sponsored Content 14 Christmas Nights of

Lights Makes the Season Bright

Around Town 33 Outdoor Adventure for

20 A State "Championship"

All Seasons at Five Rivers MetroParks

in Science and STEM for Bishop Leibold!

Parenting 12 Flu FAQ

Resources & Calendars 29 Things to Do in November

25 04

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35 Fun & Wacky Calendar

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

MEET THE STAFF Publisher Mary Wynne Cox mary@cincinnatiparent.com mary@daytonparentmagazine.com Associate Publisher + Creative Director Katie Clark katie@cincinnatiparent.com

Editor Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@cincinnatiparent.com Advertising Hannah Mohler hannah@cincinnatiparent.com hannah@daytonparentmagazine.com Production Manager Karen Ring karen@cincinnatiparent.com

November Rush Where did the time go? I feel like just last week I was visiting splash pads with my kids, and then I blinked. Suddenly, we’re barreling into the month of November, the leaves have changed and dropped, and now I’m thinking about Thanksgiving and — what the heck — the holidays after that. Giftgiving season will be upon us before we know it! As we all continue to deal with this ongoing pandemic, one of the ways you can make a big difference in your community this season is by being intentional with your gifts. Giving gifts of experience — instead of more “stuff” — is a great way to support your community and help the places and spaces that you love. And not only that, but experiential gifts — such as museum memberships and class passes — make your gift-giving go farther by providing a fun experience to the gift-getter that will last a long time.

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In “Give the Gift of Experiences” on page 25, we have a great list of ways to give gifts of experience this year. But our list is just the tip of the iceberg. Think about your favorite places around Southwest Ohio, and find ways to incorporate them into your shopping list this season. My kids’ relatives have been getting very creative with their gifts recently. Since we can’t really visit all of our usual spots around town, they’ve taken it upon themselves to bring the fun to us, in the form of virtual classes, craft boxes from local art centers and more. We’ve loved getting a little bit of our favorite places delivered right to our home!

Have a lovely (and local) November!

Community Outreach + Social Media Sarah McCosham sarah@cincinnatiparent.com Haley Paddock haley@cincinnatiparent.com

Digital Publisher Wendy Hasser wendy@cincinnatiparent.com

Events + Digital Editor Brooke Litherland brooke@cincinnatiparent.com brooke@daytonparentmagazine.com

Billing billing@cincinnatiparent.com billing@daytonparentmagazine.com

Contributing Writers Steffy McCourt, Jennifer Thompson

Contact Us daytonparent@daytonparentmagazine.com cincinnatiparent@cincinnatiparent.com Cincinnati Parent Magazine and Dayton Parent Magazine are published monthly and bi-monthly. Copyright 2020 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.

November 2020 I ohParent.com

NEWS & Notes

Our monthly roundup of news you can use

The Velveteen Rabbit at TCT The curtain is rising on The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s 101st season! From virtual offerings to brand-new shows, TCT has reimagined their 2020-21 season into something truly special. TCT’s season kicks off with The Velveteen Rabbit, Margery Williams’ award-winning classic tale of a stuffed toy rabbit made real by a child’s enduring love. This beloved classic is retold in a delightful and modern holiday musical. TCT’s The Velveteen Rabbit is showing Nov. 12-Dec. 13 at TCT’s Showtime Stage on Redbank Road, with an additional streaming option beginning Nov. 19. This “hoppy” holiday show is sure to get the entire family into the spirit of the season, while serving to remind us of what really matters.

thechildrenstheatre.com

4,500

PNC Festival of Lights The Cincinnati Zoo will be shining bright as it’s transformed into a “Wild Wonderland” for the 38th annual PNC Festival of Lights. In addition to the beauty of three million LED lights, visitors can ride the zoo’s Toyland Express, marvel at the Wild Lights show

GRAB THOSE STRETCH PANTS — THIS IS THE AVERAGE NUMBER OF CALORIES CONSUMED ON THANKSGIVING DAY!

on Swan Lake or visit with Santa through Dec. 23. The Cincinnati Zoo’s PNC Festival of Lights was voted #1 Zoo Lights in the Country by USA Today in 2019, and is definitely a holiday must. This year, advanced tickets are required for the PNC Festival of Lights (zoo members do not need a reservation for certain days/ times), which runs Nov. 21-Jan. 3, 2021with additional bonus nights Jan. 8-10 and 15-17.

DID YOU KNOW? Sarah Josepha Hale, the woman who wrote “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” convinced Abraham Lincoln to make Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863 after writing letters for 17 years.

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cincinnatizoo.org/events/festival-of-lights

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say cheese! LOCAL KIDS Autumn is a great season to enjoy Southwest Ohio, as you can see from these fabulous fall photos that our readers sent us! Here are some of the pics that made us fall in love!

Ayla (3) at the Cincinnati Zoo

Jackson (8) at Kinman Farms

Cameron (11 mos) and Noah (3) at Blooms and Berries

Jeannine (4.5) at Blooms and Berries

Harini (3) at Sharon Woods

Brrr… it’s getting colder, but that won’t stop our kids from having fun! Send us photos of your kids bundled up for outdoor play, having a cozy day indoors, dressed up in their best for the holidays, or any other winter memories you’d like to share! Email your pics to editor@cincinnatiparent.com, and your picture may be selected to appear here!

McKenna (9), Walton, KY

Parker (3) at Foxfire Campgrounds

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WANT TO SEE YOUR CUTE KIDS ON THIS PAGE?

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PARENTING

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DAYTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL

Flu FAQ Brush up on your flu knowledge and protect your family’s health this season. * Don't share cups and utensils.

We are officially in flu season. However, this year’s flu season is different than any other, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s important to brush up on your flu knowledge, so let’s address some frequently asked questions about the flu, with answers by Lisa Ziemnik, MD, division chief of Dayton Children’s Kids Express and urgent care.

I’ve heard it’s even more important to get your flu vaccine this year. Is this true? Amid the current pandemic with COVID-19, it is even more important to receive your flu vaccine this year. Many of the symptoms of COVID-19 in children are similar to the flu, especially the early signs, such as fever. Once fever hits, we don't know if it is flu, COVID or another virus. Having the flu vaccine helps to decrease the likelihood that it is flu and helps us, as physicians, to best take care of each individual and overall keep more children healthy.”

* Avoid crowds during flu season. * Sneeze or cough into a tissue or into your elbow, not your hand. * Wear a mask. The same steps that we use to prevent COVID-19 are also used to prevent the flu.

Can you get the flu from the flu vaccine?

Who should get the flu vaccine? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend a flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older every year, with rare exceptions.

How do I prevent the flu? Is it too late to get the flu vaccine? We encourage individuals to get their flu shots when they become available in late September and October, so they maximize the benefits of the vaccine. But it is almost never too late to get a flu shot and have benefit from it. The key is to try to get the vaccine at least two to three weeks before the flu season begins in order to have optimal protection against it. Many years, flu season

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

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starts to hit our region towards the middle to end of December. If you have not already gotten the flu vaccine this flu season, talk to your doctor because it is not too late to get one.

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent the flu, these tips can help limit the spreading of germs: * Make sure your family gets the flu vaccine each year. * Keep kids home if they have the flu and stay home if you're sick. * Wash your hands well and often with soap.

You cannot get flu from a flu vaccine. Your body can think it has the flu and respond by making you feel off for a day or so, but you cannot catch the flu from the vaccine. The response to the vaccine means that your body has recognized it and is responding to it.

If you have any other questions about the flu or the flu vaccine, please talk to your primary care provider. They would be happy to speak with you and provide you with information to stay healthy during flu season and all year long!

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SPONSORED CONTENT

A State “Championship” in Science and STEM for Bishop Leibold! At Bishop Leibold, we are serious about giving our students hands-on, realworld experiences with STEM and Science education every day. We received the Ohio Academy of Science (OAS) Edison Award for the tenth consecutive year, the only elementary school in the Miami Valley with such a streak- securing our position as a science powerhouse with the two prestigious awards given last month by the OAS. The Harold C. Shaw Memorial Outstanding School Award is given to schools with the highest team score at State Science Day. Bishop Leibold is one of just 7 public and private elementary schools across the state to receive the Shaw Award and the only elementary school in the greater Dayton area. Last year, eight Bishop Leibold students comprised a virtual State Science Fair team. The Ohio Academy of Science Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM education award recognizes schools that exhibit excellence in STEM education. The Ohio Academy of Science defines STEM education as both the mastery and integration of science technology, engineering, and

mathematics for all PK-12 students. STEM incorporates scientific inquiry and technological design through student-focused, project-based curricula to develop skills of communication, teamwork/ collaboration, creativity/innovation, critical thinking, and problemsolving. Bishop Leibold is one of just 34 schools in the State to be recognized with this award. We have received the award for 10 consecutive years, and we are the only grade school in the greater Dayton area to do so! Bishop Leibold School is one of only four schools in the State of Ohio to win both the OAS Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM education and the Harold Shaw Outstanding School Award for State Science Fair results in the same year. “These awards really speak to our exceptional students, staff and related programming,” says Dr. Theodore Wallace, principal of Bishop Leibold. “This double win in science and STEM is an incredible achievement.” For more information on how your student can explore their love of STEM and science, visit us online at bishopleibold.org or call us at 937-866-3021 to schedule a tour today!

BROUGHT TO YOU BY PHOTO CREDITS

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BISHOP LEIBOLD SCHOOL

WORDS BY STEFFY MCCOURT

t’s been a long, draining school day. The boy in the waiting room clutches his trumpet case. His eyes are weary; sleep tugs at his lids. The screen time today has been excessive; even his gym teacher found a way to put him in front of a computer this morning. He couldn’t look at another screen today if he tried. In a few minutes, his music instructor will call him into a practice room for his lesson. He has been waiting for this all day. All week. When he pulls out his trumpet, he will use all of his brain. He will use his eyes to read the music and his teacher’s face. He will use his hands and mouth to make sound. He will use his ears to hear the notes — the story of the song. Both his creative side and his logical side will be

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engaged as he reads and performs the music for his teacher. And what happens in that room is just the beginning. The patience, persistence and discipline required to learn and play music well sets a child up for a lifetime of success. When this boy’s parent signed him up for music lessons, he signed him up for more than he could ever have realized.

In a masked world that can feel awfully lonely, music brings us together. Sheila Vale, director of Indian Springs Academy of Music in Cincinnati, says that music lessons, both virtual and in-person, offer children the opportunity to have a productive relationship with an adult person who is not a parent.

The process of learning an instrument, and then learning to play music is challenging and time-consuming. Students must also have a passion for music in order to stick with it. “One needs a lot of patience, discipline, strength and dedication to become a musician,” says Judy Yin-Chi Lee, director of community engagement for New Jersey Symphony Orchestra. “For a kid to learn how to play an instrument, she is taught to have the patience, and to never give up when things get hard in order to succeed. That is an important life lesson.”

Playing music requires the whole brain. “Learning how to play an instrument is the best way to exercise and strengthen brain muscles that typically aren’t used simultaneously,” Yin-Chi Lee says. “In order to sound an instrument, you have to use your eyes to read the music, your hands [and sometimes feet] to operate the instrument, your ears to listen. And all at the same time.”

Studying the history of music from around the world opens children up to new ways of understanding and perceiving. Students might encounter different sounds while studying and playing their method books. They may play an American folk song one day and an Asian song the next. Then when studying how history and culture intertwine with the music of a place and time, students have a broader understanding of the world. “Great composers infused music with human experiences,” Vale says. She adds that with a students’ musical maturation comes a greater understanding of historical perspective. “Music opens up one’s mind to be receptive of differences, and they learn to appreciate different cultures,” Yin-Chi Lee says.

Music is a universal language. Music puts sound to both feeling and experiences; it connects people (and sometimes animals) when words cannot. Music makes words unnecessary, but when they are, music can help with that, too. It turns out that studying music can actually strengthen a child’s foundational literacy skills. According to a 2007 Northwestern study, music training — with its effect on students’ understanding of sight and sound — may be more enhancing for verbal communication skills than phonological studies.

“Music is a powerful connector,” Vale says. “They say if you play music, then you have friends all over the world.”

There are so many reasons to hand your child an instrument and to invest in lessons. At this time, when the world can feel like a pretty scary place, especially to a child, music lessons can serve as a way for children to connect and channel their feelings in a beautiful way.

In addition, musicians become practiced communicators when working with one another and alongside each other.

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GIVE THE GIFT OF EXPERIENCES

S U P P O R T YO U R FAVO R I T E L O C A L P L AC E S A N D S M A L L B U S I N E S S E S T H I S H O L I D AY S E A S O N .

WORDS BY SARAH MCCOSHAM

t’s the start of gift-giving season! This year, make your gifts to loved ones go farther — and support your community — by giving gifts of experience. Local businesses need your help now more than ever, and one small way to make a big difference is by giving the gift of experience: classes, lessons, museum memberships, tickets to family-friendly concerts, community theatre and gift cards to local restaurants. We’ve got a roundup of ideas for gifting experiences that everyone will love… including the local businesses you help support!

R E TA I L King Arthur’s Court Toys King Arthur’s Court Toys in Oakley has been a neighborhood favorite for over 30 years and is the perfect place to check things off those Christmas lists. With a wide variety of popular toys (from LEGO and Playmobil to trains and dollhouses) they have it all, and even carry quite a few unique and hard-to-find brands for that child in your life who may be difficult to shop for! November 2020 I ohParent.com

Cincy Shirts If you’re looking for an Ohio-specific gift, Cincy Shirts is your one-stopshop! You can order their unique and often hilarious shirts, gear and accessories online or head to one of their stores to pick out something in person. They offer both adult and child sizes in many of their items.

The Little Exchange If you want to shop and make a difference at the same time, check out nonprofit boutique The Little Exchange in Oakwood. Known for being the perfect place to find that oh-so-perfect gift, you’ll find one-of-a-kind bridal and baby gifts, infant clothing, unique home decor and much more. Staffed by almost 100 volunteers, The Little Exchange has been in the community for over 65 years, and has donated more than $1.6 million to Dayton Children’s Hospital. And bonus: They offer complimentary gift wrapping and free local delivery, too!

For families with older kids, you can’t go wrong with a Kings Island Gold Season Pass. You’ll enjoy free season-long parking, unlimited admission to Kings Island, Soak City Water Park, seasonal events and early ride access.

THE GIFT OF ART From single tickets to Broadway-level shows to gift cards for TCT Academy, give your theatre-loving kids the gift of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati this year. As the nation’s oldest children’s theatre, TCT has weathered 2020 with strength and humor, proving that even in the most uncertain of times, we can always rely on theatre.

For crafty kiddos, a DIY kit from AR Workshop in Cincinnati or a To-Go kit from Decoy Art Center in Beavercreek is sure to spur lots of Pinterestworthy fun at home. The art kits come in a variety of projects and can be ordered online or picked up in store.

R E S TAU R A N T S In Cincinnati, Jeff Ruby’s restaurants are the best of the best, and offer a next-level dining experience for patrons — and curbside pickup, too! From Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse to The Precinct to Carlo and Johnny’s, you can’t go wrong with a Jeff Ruby gift card. In the Dayton area, you can find award-winning pizzas, giant sandwiches and other Italian specialties at Marion’s Piazza, which has been a local staple for more than 50 years. Give a Marion’s gift card, which your recipient can use at any one of nine Marion’s Piazza locations. Prefer sweet treats? Aglamesis Bros in Cincinnati has homemade chocolates and candies that make for a very sweet stocking stuffer. And a gold-trimmed box of Esther Price chocolates is sure to please even the most hard-to-please people on your list.

MUSEUMS AND MORE Gifting a museum membership is a gift that truly pays dividends. A family membership to the Cincinnati Museum Center is a great place to start — it offers a ton of perks, including discounted admission to 200+ museums across the U.S. as part of the ACM Reciprocal Network. Meanwhile, the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is Dayton’s premier place for families to learn and play together, and a membership makes a fab gift for Gem City kids. Featuring educational, hands-on learning experiences for all ages, Boonshoft is a children’s museum, natural history museum, zoo, planetarium and observatory all in one. What kid doesn’t like trains? The World’s Largest Indoor Train Display is located in Southwest Ohio, and is a wonderful winter outing. Entertainment Junction offers discounts for tickets purchased online, and also boasts an extensive in-house train toy store you can get gift cards for, too.

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QUICK GIFT CARD IDEAS Running short on time? Gift cards to the rescue! • Got budding bibliophiles? Consider a gift card to the Library Friends Warehouse. • Little fish in your house? Get a Bear Paddle Swim School or AquaTots gift card. • Looking for lessons for your little Mozart? Try a gift card to Cincinnati School of Music or McCutcheon Music. • Foodie friends? Satisfy any cravings with gift card trifecta to LaRosa’s, Skyline and Graeter’s. • Wondering what to get the person who has everything? A gift certificate to Findlay Market is perfect. With 50+ local merchants, this Cincy gem is guaranteed to have something for everyone. • New parents? Gift a Once Upon a Child card. This resale superstar has unbeatable deals on clothes, supplies, toys and gear!

This year, skip the “things” that will quickly be forgotten, and instead give a gift that will last all year long.

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THINGS TO DO

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

sun 01

VINTAGE MARKET DAYS

Vintage Market Days is an upscale vintage and vintage-inspired indoor/outdoor market, featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home decor, outdoor furnishings, treats, seasonal plantings and more. • Time: 10 am-4 pm, Location: Greene County Fairgrounds, vintagemarketdays.com

WILDFLOWER STROLL

Join naturalist Noel for a Sunday stroll and learn what wildflowers are blooming. The stroll may take you back in time as you visit different parts of the Krippendorf estate. Member tickets are $5; nonmember tickets are $10 and include daily admission. • Time: 11 am, Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, cincynature.org

mon 02

TEEN PAGE TURNERS: BATTLE OF THE BOOKS

A virtual book discussion group for grades 6-8. Participants vote on what types of books they wish to read. Participants can read as many or as few of the selected titles as they wish. At the next meeting, the group will vote on their favorite selected titles; continues until December, when we select one title from all the previous winners to be “Best Book of the Battle”. • Time: 3

sat 07

AUTUMN TREES DUSK HIKE FOR FAMILIES

Experience the glow of fall colors in the evening as we take a leisurely hike through Rowe Wood’s oldest trees. This naturalist-led hike will include discussion on the history of our forest and the science behind the array of fall leaf colors. Member tickets are $5; nonmember tickets are $10/include daily admission. •

world. Members pay $7/child; nonmembers pay $11/child (includes daily admission). • Time: 9:30 am-12 pm, Location: Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, cincy nature.org

sun 15

CINCINNATI AVANT-GARDE CRAFT SHOW

wed 04

Shop for the holidays from local vendors and small businesses. •

This event will feature a variety of artists and crafters selling their original handmade items. Masks are required for this event. Admission is $3/person and free for children under 12. A portion of proceeds will benefit the local nonprofit, My Nose Turns Red Youth Circus. • Time: 10 am-4 pm,

Join the library for a drive-in story time on Wednesday mornings before the library opens. Please note: there will be no restroom access for this event. Reservations required; register by carload, not individuals. • Time: 9:30-10 am,

Time: 11 am-5 pm, Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, entertrainmentjunction.com FREE

Location: Oasis Convention Center, avantgardeshows.com

wed 11

CINCINNATI DESSERT FESTIVAL

pm-4 pm, Location: Virtual, daytonmetro library.org

DRIVE-IN STORYTIME

Location: Monfort Heights Library, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

fri 06

PB&J SESSIONS: A WORLD OF MUSIC

Join us as we stream “A World of Music” on Facebook Live. The harp, cello and flute will be our tour guides as we explore how music connects us as humans. • Time: 10 am, Location: Virtual, lintonmusic.org FREE

Time: 4:30 pm, Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, cincynature.org

WINTER CRAFT SHOW

Miss Mary will follow her normal story time routine shortened a bit, so expect an active and wiggly 15-20 minutes. Registration required. • Time: 10-10:30 am,

This curated festival features the best sweets in the city. Guests will sample desserts from more than 20 of Cincinnati’s best treat makers during this drive-thru event. Timed tickets only; advanced tickets required. • Time:

fri 13

wed 18

With a naturalist, students and families will explore the natural

Enjoy an authentic period dinner and sample 19th century cuisine. Education director Steve Preston

VIRTUAL FAMILY STORY TIME

Location: Virtual, cincinnatilibrary. org FREE

FAMILY FIELD TRIP: LIFE HIDING UNDERGROUND

11 am-3 pm, Location: Liberty Center, midwestdessertfests.com

PERIOD DINNER

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will prepare the meal and give guests background into the history and preparation of each dish. Tickets are $35/person. Reserve your seat by calling 513-563-9484.

• Time: 6-9 pm, Location: Heritage Village Museum, heritagevillage cincinnati.org

thurs 19

WIGGLE WORMS: THANKSGIVING GIVE BACK

Our Wiggle Worms programs are not always about receiving, they are about giving as well. Stay tuned for details as we teach our little 2-5 year olds how to give back to their community during the season of giving. No registration required. • Time: 10 am-12pm, Location: Greene County Parks & Trails, gcparkstrails. com FREE

fri 20

PNC FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS MEMBER PREVIEW NIGHT

The Cincinnati Zoo will shine bright as it’s transformed into a “Wild Wonderland” for the 38th annual PNC Festival of Lights. The event kicks off with a special preview event when more than three million LED lights will illuminate the Zoo. Reservations required. • Time: 3-9 pm, Location: Cincinnati Zoo, cincinnatizoo.org

sat 21 & sun 22

TILE HANDS-ON WORKSHOP

Make a special gift or keepsake! Meet local ceramic artist, Bonnie Mitchell, and learn how to carve your own image into a tile using the sgraffito technique during this workshop. Members $25; Nonmembers $30 (includes daily admission). • Time: Check website,

mon 23–sun 29

THANKSGIVING DAY RACE

The 111th Thanksgiving Day Race is happening as a special virtual event. Register online and run or walk anywhere, anytime Nov. 23-29. • Time: Anytime, Location: Virtual, thanksgivingdayrace.com

wed 25

WALK IN THE WOODS ART SHOW

Join the Nature Center for an art exhibition of local artists who created pieces in a variety of media and were inspired by their time outdoors. Exhibit is free for members; nonmembers pay daily admission. • Time: Check website, Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, cincynature.org

• Time: 10 am, Location: Harrison

Branch Library, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

sat 28

DAYTON DRIVE-THRU CHILDREN'S PARADE IN LIGHTS

Load up the car and go to downtown Dayton to see floats, lighted displays and performers as you cruise through the Main Street parade route!. • Time: 6-10 pm, Location: down Main Street, daytonholidayfestival.org FREE

SANTA’S WORKSHOP

Santa and his merry band of elves will spend time making gifts, ornaments and other fun creations at Washington Park. Stop by the wish-list station where elves will help kids write a list before visiting Santa. • Time: 1-3 pm, Location:

Washington Park, washingtonpark.org FREE

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Park, coneyislandpark.com/event/ christmas-light-show

THE VELVETEEN RABBIT Nov. 12-Dec. 13

Margery Williams’ award-winning classic tale of a stuffed toy rabbit made real by a child’s enduring love is retold in a modern and delightfully electric holiday musical. Limited seating available, with a live-steam option starting Nov. 19. • Location: The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, thechildrenstheatre.com

BRING A FRIEND FREE AT ENTERTRAINMENT JUNCTION Nov. 1-20

EnterTRAINment Junction’s 1st Class Members are invited to bring a friend free Nov. 1-20. Limit 1 ticket/member per day and must be used day of issue. Passholder and guest must be present at time of transaction. Limit 4 free tickets per passholder during the promotional period. • Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, entertrainmentjunction.com

CHOOSE & CUT CHRISTMAS TREES Starts Nov. 27

Choose and cut your tree from Young’s 30-acre farm. Precut trees also available. • Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy, youngsdairy.com

ONGOING EVENTS PNC FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Nov. 21-Jan. 3, 2021 (Bonus nights: Jan. 8-10 & 15-17)

Admire the beauty of three million lights, ride the Toyland Express train, marvel at the spectacular Wild Lights show on Swan Lake and snack on s’mores. Santa will be available for visits starting at 4 pm through Dec. 23. Reservations required. • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, cincinnatizoo.org

The perfect social-distancing holiday activity! Experience this amazing light show synchronized to holiday music through your car radio. With 2.5 miles of holiday displays, Christmas Nights of Lights welcomes carloads of families and friends to enjoy this Christmas tradition. • Location: Coney Island

OUTDOOR STORY TIME

Join the library outside for an in-person story time! Miss Caitlin will hold a story time each Wednesday at 10 am with books, rhymes and dances for all ages. You're welcome to bring blankets and chairs. Reservations required.

Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, cincynature.org

sat 21–sun 29

CHRISTMAS NIGHTS OF LIGHTS

WOODLAND LIGHTS Weekends (Friday-Sunday) Nov. 27 - Dec. 13; Nightly Dec. 18-27 (closed the 24th & 25th)

Woodland Lights offers a fantasy land of holiday lights and displays along a half-mile wooded path. The month-long festival has more lights, more vignettes, and the same winter whimsy that enchants thousands of visitors every year. •

Location: Washington Township, Times: 5:30-7:30pm or 8-10pm (tickets must be purchased in advance for a specific date/time): Cost: $7, Free for Ages 2 & under, washingtontwp.org/ recreation/woodland_lights

JOURNEY BOREALIS Nov. 20-Jan. 3, 2021

A one-of-a-kind holiday light event featuring more than one million lights and holiday art installations created by regional and national artists. • Location: Pyramid Hill, pyramidhill.org

A CARILLION CHRISTMAS Nov. 24-Dec. 30

Carillon Historical Park’s 65-acre campus will be transformed into a winter wonderland of sparkle, magic and holiday cheer! • Location: Carillon Historical Park, daytonhistory.org

CHRISTMAS AT THE JUNCTION Nov. 14-Jan. 1, 2021

Create a holiday tradition! See the magic of Christmas at the home of the world’s largest indoor train display. Take a journey to the North Pole, where you can meet Mrs. Claus and Santa himself. • Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, entertrainmentjunction.com

HOLIDAY JUNCTION FEATURING THE DUKE ENERGY HOLIDAY TRAINS Opening November 13

A beloved holiday tradition for kids of all ages! Check website for specific opening date. • Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, cincymuseum.org

A VERY MERRY GARDEN HOLIDAY Nov. 14-Jan. 3, 2021

Krohn Conservatory’s annual holiday show is a can’t-miss tradition for Cincinnati families. Open daily. • Location: Krohn

Conservatory, cincinnatiparks.com/ krohn

MAYA: THE EXHIBITION Through Jan. 3, 2021

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

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

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AROUND TOWN

BROUGHT TO YOU BY LAUREN LEMONS, FIVE RIVERS METROPARKS

Outdoor Adventure for All Seasons at Five Rivers MetroParks Cooler weather isn’t a reason to put a pause on outdoor adventure. In fact, there’s so much to see along the trails after leaves have dropped. From cool birds to furry wildlife, some of the best times to hit the trails are in the fall and winter. While colder temps and challenges with COVID-19 might deter some families from heading outdoors, having adventures in nature can be an enjoyable and safe option for family fun with extra precautions. Additionally, staying active and surrounding yourself with nature is good for your mind and body, both essential for everyone during this time that has many of us cooped up indoors. Before you take to the trails, here are some tips to keep your family safe during winter. • When participating in a cold-weather outdoor activity, dress in layers to control your body temperature. Sweating too much in the sun can make you cold in the shade. It’s best if your base layer is made from a wicking material that pulls sweat away from your skin. Additionally, be sure you have a layer of insulation that provides heat and a weather-appropriate jacket.

3. Englewood MetroPark: The 0.5-mile blue trail takes you along the boardwalk. Next, head to the nature play area for bonus fun!

4. Carriage Hill MetroPark: The 0.5-mile red trail loops around Cedar Lake. The orange trail is 1.3 miles and has options for shorter routes.

Germantown MetroPark:

MetroParks has introduced two new, easy-to-hike trails as part of a five-year conservation project. The new 2-mile purple trail loop and the 0.7-mile brown trail loop wind through woodlands, prairie and wetlands, showcasing diverse habitats. These trails are easy to traverse and meant for families, schools and community groups to explore. The new trails can be accessed from the sled hill/Twin Valley Trail parking lot, 6202 Boomershine Rd., with an additional wetland entrance a little further south down the street.

• Bring water and snacks to keep your body moving. Take frequent breaks with your little ones to make sure they have a drink and snack. • Sledding in MetroParks is permitted in Englewood, Germantown and Taylorsville MetroParks. Be sure to follow CDC guidelines when sledding, and keep a safe social distance from other sledders. Additionally, never turn your back on a sledding hill to avoid downhill sledders from running into you.

Interested in a cool-weather hike? Here’s a list of MetroParks’ top trails for grownups with young kids:

1. Hills & Dales MetroPark: The • Many injuries on the trails in the winter come from falling. Be sure everyone in your family has footwear appropriate for the weather — sturdy shoes to hike and snow boots after a fresh snow.

Adirondack Trail loop is less than a mile and starts at Dogwood Pond. To make your walk longer, start at the Paw Paw shelter and cross the wetlands boardwalk.

2. Possum Creek MetroPark: Take the 1-mile blue trail around Argonne Lake for beautiful views of tree lines and the possibility to spot wildlife.

Need help navigating the trails and finding interesting things in your favorite MetroParks? Download the free MetroParks mobile app, powered by OuterSpatial, at metroparks.org/mobile. Learn more about MetroParks’ 18 clean, safe parks by visiting metroparks.org.

PHOTO CREDITS

FIVE RIVERS METROPARKS

November 2020 I ohParent.com

ohParent.com I November 2020

fun and WACKY DAYTON PARENT'S

Did you know that there is an official holiday for just about anything you can think of? Here are a few fun days worth celebrating!

NOVEMBER 11/2

GO FOR A RIDE DAY

DEVILED EGG DAY

11/5 LOVE YOUR RED HAIR DAY

If you’ve got it, flaunt it!

TONGUE TWISTER DAY

11/23

11/27 SESAME STREET DAY

HUMBUG DAY

Keep the doctor away.

12/4 COOKIE DAY

12/26 CANDY CANE DAY

Sweet and striped.

Bake a batch!

FIBONACCI DAY

Do you know the Golden Ratio?

Betty Botter bought some butter …

11/10

EAT A RED APPLE DAY

12/21 Your day to grumble.

12/1

Hard boil some eggs!

11/8

DECEMBER

11/22 Put on a helmet and take off.

CALENDAR

12/7 WALT DISNEY DAY

Mickey, Donald or Goofy?

FLOSSING DAY

Keep your teeth healthy.

12/28

Celebrate Big Bird and pals.

CARD PLAYING DAY

Anyone for euchre?

12/11 MOUNTAIN DAY

Towering, majestic and beautiful.

11/13 WORLD KINDNESS DAY

Spread some cheer!

11/15 BUNDT CAKE DAY

We like big bundts and we cannot lie.

SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com

12/30 BACON DAY

Mmm… crispy!

12/13 11/30 MOUSSE DAY

Chocolate lovers, rejoice!

VIOLIN DAY

Make some sweet music.

12/17 MAPLE SYRUP DAY

Top your pancakes.

November 2020 I ohParent.com

November & December 2020 | Dayton Parent

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