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D E C E M B E R 2015 // FREE

SEVEN WAYS

TO HELP YOUR PRESCHOOLER

LOVE SCHOOL {HOLIDAY FAMILY STRESS} HANDLING THE MOMENTS OF THE SEASON THAT ARE LESS THAN JOLLY

PLUS »

pressed

FOR PRESENTS?

Try the gift of lessons, experiences and activities instead!

IN EVERY ISSUE

CONTENTS D E C E M 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

AROUND TOWN

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MARVEL FANS: UNITE!

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

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FOOTNOTES: THOUGHTS FROM THE MARGINS OF A

MOM’S LIFE Growing backwards and forwards

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A DAD INFLUENCE

How to get your kids to do what you ask... every time

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ASK THE TEACHER School party stress, educational gifts and chaotic classrooms

FA M I LY H E A LT H

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IN THIS ISSUE

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GROW I N G H E A LT H Y FAMILIES

SEVEN WAYS TO HELP YOUR PRESCHOOLER LOVE SCHOOL

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Getting your little learner excited about this new adventure

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HOLIDAY FAMILY STRESS Handling the moments of the season that are less than jolly

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PRESSED FOR PRESENTS? Try the gift of lessons, experiences and activities instead!

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // DECEMBER 2015

AWARENESS OF HOLIDAY HEALTH HAZARDS HELP FAMILIES MAKE THE MOST OF THE SEASON

SUCCESSFUL HOLIDAY TRAVEL FOR A CHILD WITH BEHAVIORAL ISSUES

IN EVERY ISSUE

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EDITOR’S NOTE

08

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

10

ONLINE BUZZ

RESOURCES & CALENDARS

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PRESCHOOL & EDUCATION GUIDE

38

DAILY EVENTS

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ONGOING EVENTS

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RESOURCE DIRECTORY

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FUN & WACKY CALENDAR

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

All wrapped up!

D

id the month of December sneak up on you like it did me? Somewhere after Halloween, time seems to have sped up and unbelievably, we are wrapping up the year already. Of course this month is perhaps the busiest of all, with the holidays keeping families hopping from one festive activity or event to the next.

Is your holiday shopping wrapped up?

Thinking of gift ideas for all the children on your list can be a challenge. (And how many kids really remember that “must have” toy they just had to get last year?) Instead of handing over another package, why not give a membership to a place they’ll love to visit again and again? Or tickets to a performance they’ll never forget? You might even inspire a new passion by giving lessons for art or music classes. Check out our article Pressed for Presents? for some ideas on finding a memorable gift that will be appreciated long into the new year. For more great gift-giving ideas, be sure to check out our 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways starting December 3rd!

WEB EDITO R Wendy Cox • wendy@cincinnatiparent.com

Shopping for presents is only one of the many items on your to-do list this December.

Does the thought of squeezing in visits with relatives all over town or dealing with a Grinchy family member have you reaching for another Christmas cookie and glass of egg nog (maybe spiked?) This time of year can put a strain on even the jolliest among us – check out Holiday Family Stress for some expert tips on handling these moments in stride.

Finally, make sure you wrap up for all the fun wintertime activities available in our area!

From Santa sightings and skating to holiday light displays and nature hikes, there’s so much to do this time of year. Get the scoop on all the happenings in our Community Spotlight and Daily Events Calendar.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // DECEMBER 2015

INTERN Meg Wynne • meg@cincinnatiparent.com Business Manager // Accounting Roxanne Burns • roxanne@cincinnatiparent.com CONTRIBUTING W R I T E R S Maggie Loiselle, Lauren Lawson, Sarah BrickerHunt, Pete Gilbert, Deb Krupowicz, Kelly Blewett, Sarah McCosham, 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

As always, we thank you for picking up this issue of Cincinnati Parent. From our family to yours, we wish you the happiest of holiday seasons!

EDITOR

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GR APHICS ASSIS TA N T Maria Tancredi • maria@cincinnatiparent.com

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.

IN EVERY ISSUE

COMMUNITY

SPOTLIGHT WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN DECEMBER

Superheroes unite!

Superhero fans of all ages will enjoy the action-packed extravaganza of Marvel Universe Live coming to U.S. Bank Arena Dec. 17-20. Spider-Man, Iron Man, The Avengers and the Hulk unite to face off against evil in this spectacular show, featuring awe-inspiring special effects, pyrotechnics, aerial stunts, martial arts and motorcycle tricks! For tickets and show times, visit www. marveluniverselive.com/venue/us-bank-arena.

See Santa’s Elves at Work!

In 1979, Shillito’s Department Store handcrafted its iconic holiday display to serve as a Christmas attraction the whole city could enjoy. Both animated and non-animated elves, over 130 in total, were created and set up in vignettes and window displays throughout the store. Each scene gave a peek into the inner workings of Santa’s workshop – beginning with the large mailbox where children drop off their letters to Santa and ending at Santa’s sleigh, which was being loaded full of toys for the big night. Today, Cincinnatians can see Shillito’s Elves in all their original glory in Downtown Mariemont Nov. 24-Dec. 31. http://thesantaworkshop.com/

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CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // DECEMBER 2015

Light Up Middletown A drive-through fantasy light display! Visit the best and most family-friendly priced holiday attraction in SW Ohio. Admission is by cash donation – you set the price. Drive through the downtown Middletown Smith Park and see the millions of sparkling lights in animated displays, including the tunnel of lights, the sea serpent in the reflecting pond, Santa’s Workshop, deer leaping over the road and much more.

6-10 pm every night, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, For more information, visit www.LightUpMiddletown.org.

Beat the baseball blues If you are feeling blue because baseball season has come to an end, head to the Duke Energy Convention Center Dec. 4-5 for RedsFest! Between autograph sessions, photo opportunities, player meet-and-greets and Reds memorabilia, you’re sure to get a winter baseball fix that will see you through to spring training.

Young fans will also enjoy the special Reds Heads Fun Zone, which features a trampoline, bounce house, games and even photos with Santa. Tickets are available for one or both days, and a full schedule of events can be found at http://cincinnati. reds.mlb.com/cin/fan_forum/ redsfest.jsp.

Sing along to Christmas songs!

Join the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra for their not-to-be-missed holiday tradition: Holiday Pops! Grammy-winning vocal quartet the New York Voices joins the orchestra to perform traditional and contemporary holiday favorites sure to warm your heart. Spectacular singers and dancers add to the holiday cheer, and there will even be an appearance by Santa himself! Choose from three performances: Dec. 11 and 12 at 8 p.m., and Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. Kids’ tickets are just $10! http://cincinnatisymphony.org/concerts-plus-events/2015-16pops-season-listing/holiday-pops/

Skate with Santa Every weekend from Thanksgiving until Christmas, adults and kids of all ages can ice skate with the Big Elf himself! From noon-1 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, join Mr. Claus at the outdoor ice rink at Fountain Square for Santa Skates, an hour of holiday fun and cheer! Ice rink admission is $6.00 and skate rental is $4.00. So, grab those wish lists and head down to the Square before Santa makes his way back to the North Pole! http://myfountainsquare.com/event/santaskates-5/2015-11-28/

A train display for the record books Go to Holiday Junction for free!

Duke Energy customers can visit Cincinnati Museum Center’s Holiday Junction for FREE between Nov. 6 and Dec. 24, 2015! And rumor has it this is one of the best years yet for the beloved Cincinnati tradition. Highlights include additional lights, new trains and lots of family-friendly activities. Claim your free tickets at www.holidaytraindisplay.com.

As always, Holiday Junction is free for Museum members.

Create a holiday train-dition with your family at EnterTRAINment Junction’s Holiday Junction. Take your kids on a “Journey to the North Pole,” where they’ll meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, then marvel at the “Main Street Holiday Trains,” featuring some of the most beautiful winter train displays in the tri-state! Afterwards, visit the rest of the World’s Largest Indoor Train Display, which includes over 2 miles of track, 90 G-scale locomotives, 1,000 cars, a railroad museum and an interactive kid’s play area. Holiday Junction runs through Jan. 2. www.entertrainmentjunction.com/cincinnati_ entertainment_and_attractions_calendar

DECEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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IN EVERY ISSUE

ONLINE

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

Win Tickets to Frisch’s presents The Nutcracker

FACEBOOK TALK WE ASKED:

Would you rather have a...

A. Nanny B. Maid C. Personal Chef D. Personal Shopper (No, you can’t choose “all of the above”) YOU SAID:

Win Tickets to PNC’s Festival of Lights

MAID... for my first, second, third and forth pick! – Angela Z. Personal shopper, because I hate shopping! – Angela J. Maid! I’ve played this out in my mind many times. If I win the lottery all I really want is a maid! – Jennifer C. Maid. No question. Without a doubt. – Krista A. No question, a chef! – Teressa W. Maid, the other stuff is easy. Only cause my kids are school age though.

Haha! – Aime J. Win Tickets to Marvel Universe LIVE!

C!!! Personal chef all the way! – Emily P. Chef. Hands down... a chef. – Sandy O. C.) Personal Chef Hands down. All of the good food. – Angie W.

“Like” us on Facebook to Join the Conversation

Over 20,000 fans and counting...

FIND US ONLINE FACEBOOK // cincinnatiparent TWITTER // @cincyparent

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CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // DECEMBER 2015

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

Footnotes

Thoughts from the margins of a mom’s life Growing backwards and forwards Kelly Blewett

According to Fred Rogers, “Play is the work of childhood.” If this is true, and why shouldn’t it be, then my children are working very hard indeed. Here are a few examples of recent games:

The Champion Ship: In this game, all champions (which includes any human or dog in the house) must run to my son’s bed (a.k.a. the Champion Ship) and leap in. Any items on the floor of the room must also be put in the bed.

Participants may cry, “Let’s get to the Champion Ship!” The ship, which is rarely cleaned out as the captain prefers it to be as full as possible, contains an ice pack (now lukewarm), a flashlight, every stuffed animal on both of my children’s shelves (totaling roughly 27 fluffs), empty cups, several pairs of pajamas and (most hilariously to the captain of the captain) underwear.

Monster Tag: This game begins like hide-and-seek. A grown-up sits on the couch in a living room and counts to ten very loudly. Then they seek the “monsters,” saying the whole time “Where are you?” to ratchet up anticipation. When monsters are discovered, the game shifts gears and becomes more like tag. Monsters rush to home base – the counting couch – while the adult unsuccessfully tries to catch them from behind.

Sit Trap: This is a favorite from the grandparents. Children sit on the laps of grown-ups only to discover that they can’t get out. They are wrapped in the grown-ups’ legs! They are “sit-trapped”!

After a brief struggle, the trap opens and the child leaps away laughing madly.

Stuffed animals may be sit-trapped by children.

Ghost Pokes: Those five and under

Circus: This game can only be played

sneak up on adults in the house. Upon finding adults, they must yell, “I’ve got them! Ghost pokes!” and then jab fingers toward the adults while shrieking “bah! bah! bah!”

with Nana and my son. All items that could be part of a circus – tiny clowns, trains with animals inside the cars, a tent – are brought out onto a big carpet.

Imaginative discussion ensues...and ensues...and ensues. Three hours later, the circus ends.

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The list may look (and in fact be) exhausting, but frankly at 7 pm after a day of adulting, there’s nothing quite as invigorating and giggle-inducing as a round of Monster Tag. If this is my children’s work, the serious learning that helps them develop the skills they’ll need to grow, then it is for me precisely the opposite: a chance to unlearn grown-up-ness, to follow my children’s lead, to take a big jump to that magical, messy, imaginative realm I once inhabited all the time.

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

A Dad Influence How to get your kids to do what you ask... every time Pete Gilbert

“Thank you for not poking your neighbor with scissors.”

“You should be proud of the way you stayed calm when those mean things were said about you.”

During my first year of teaching, I quickly learned I was not ready for the challenges ahead of me. I knew all about lesson plans and seating charts, but I wasn’t prepared for fistfights and defiant seventh graders.

My school brought in a psychologist to assist the teachers and restore order to our classrooms. His approach was called “Nurtured Heart.” It was all about praising the positive (even if there was little to be positive about) and ignoring the negative.

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He explained that children act out to gain attention, and if I gave attention to the kids behaving well, negative behavior would stop and positive behavior would increase. I was skeptical, but desperate. It was hard to ignore a pencil being flung across the room, but I ignored that behavior and praised the rest of the class for staying on task. Multiply this instance by 1,000 every class period of every day and that’s what I did. Of course there were consequences for negative behavior, but they were swift and involved little interaction.

What does this have to do with parenting?

The Nurtured Heart approach works on your own kids, too!

Try it tonight. Praise one of your kids for putting his napkin on his lap at dinner and

watch the others do the same immediately.

Just be prepared for them to request your praise as well. Or, tell your kids it’s pajama time. Watch as one shuffles off to her bedroom while the other two ignore your request – until you praise the one child who is doing what you asked. Just like that, what would’ve been a twenty-minute battle has now turned into a fun, positive jammie race.

Even older kids who know what you are doing still can’t help but participate.

Everyone likes to be told they are doing a great job.

Aren’t you glad you took a minute out of your busy day to read this column? Good for you! Well done!

See what I mean?

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).

Seven Ways to Help Your Preschooler

Love School

Sarah Bricker-Hunt

Getting your little learner excited about this new adventure

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P

reschool is a big transition for kids. It’s a bridge between toddlerhood and Kindergarten, and the change can make even the most excited little student a bit anxious.

If you’ve got a preschooler at home, try these tips for helping him navigate this exciting (but sometimes scary) new world.

{1.} Get on board “The very first step in helping your child enjoy preschool is for the parent to enjoy the idea of the child in preschool,” says Tami Lanham, Founder of the Kinder Garden School in Blue Ash. “If a child senses that the parent is nervous or upset with the staff, the child will trust those feelings and have a tougher transition.”

{2.} Keep it short and sweet For some kids, the first few minutes of transition time at the beginning of the school day can be the hardest of all. Emilie Parry, director and owner of Creative Tots in Mason, suggests keeping your goodbyes on the short side. “Make it quick,” she recommends. “A quick hug, a quick kiss.

Tell them you can’t wait to hear about their day later.” And don’t linger she says.

“This only makes it more difficult for the child, the parent and the teacher.”

*Continued on page 18

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{3.} Get to know the staff Lanham recommends parents go into the classrooms and talk to the teachers.

Take advantage of open-door policies.

You will be working together to make your child’s experience a successful one.

If you have an issue you would like to discuss with staff, Parry suggests contacting the teacher by email. “Dropoff and pick-up are the busiest time for teachers as they are making sure every child has what they need and are being dismissed to the correct individual,” she explains.

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“For specific concerns, emailing the teacher is the best way to set up a time to meet with your child’s teacher or schedule a phone call so they can give you their undivided attention.”

{4.} Jump in If possible, try to take advantage of opportunities to get involved at your child’s school. Volunteer to read a book to the class, join classroom parties or find other ways to be a part of what’s going on. Your preschooler will love

having you share

in their world.

{5.} Stay positive Be mindful of the way you discuss preschool at home in front of your child. Lanham says that children trust their parents’ perspective of a situation.

Showing your enthusiasm and support for preschool will make them feel confident about their experience as well.

Jannis Strasser of the National Association for the Education of Young Children suggests celebrating your child’s small, specific successes.

For example, “Tell her that you are proud of the way she tried to print her name,” she says. “Don’t expect perfection. If your child was perfect, she wouldn’t have to go to school.”

{6.} Add some helpful books to your bookshelf Many books are available that are designed to help kids overcome preschool anxiety and get excited to attend school. Parry suggests the following: The Kissing Hand

by Audrey Penn, Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes, Mommy Always Comes Back by Penny Schnee-Bosch and Llama, Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney.

{7.} Keep things simple Avoid battles over things like what to wear or eating a big meal before the school day.

Keep your focus on the more important goals of preschool. Also, Strasser suggests not dwelling on how many friends a child is making. “This is too abstract for most young children, and their friends change by the minute,” she says. Instead, ask open-ended questions like “Tell me about some of the children in your class.”

Most children will settle into a routine at preschool and grow to enjoy their time away from home within a few months. However, if your child seems increasingly anxious as time goes on, consult with the preschool director and your child’s teacher to address any stumbling blocks that are getting in the way of your child enjoying this important milestone experience. Helping your preschooler love school will make the transition to Kindergarten that much easier!

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holiday family stress H andlin g the moments of the season that are less than j olly

Maggie Loiselle

Maybe it’s Facebook’s fault, with its constant feed of friends’ seemingly perfect family moments. Or Pinterest is to blame, giving us an impossible holiday standard to achieve. But somewhere between orchestrating elaborate Elf on the Shelf hijinks and planning an entire Christmas feast, we often underestimate just how downright stressful this time of year can be.

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With parents off work, kids on winter break, relatives to visit and countless things to wrap, cook and clean in preparation, it’s no wonder the “magic” of the season often doesn’t live up to our snow-draped, candle-lit expectations. The rapid pace of the holidays can magnify normal everyday stress, and disagreements over how your family should spend its time and money can easily put a damper on the festivities. “We all have these idyllic images of the holidays, but your kids are not going to remember how beautiful the tree looked or how great the pumpkin pie tasted if everything turns into a family fight,” says Ashley Albertson, a social worker at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital.

Barbara Hummel, a counselor and mediator in Hyde Park who works with families, advises couples to set their intentions for the holiday season ahead of time. “Ask yourself, ‘What do I want to teach my children about holidays and giving and receiving?’” she says. “Start with deciding what values are important to you and be willing to prioritize them. While some of your values may be competing with others, this gives you a chance to become clear about what is most important to you, and it will shape how you spend your time.”

That idea includes not spreading you and your family so thin that you end up rushing from place to place without being able to make meaningful connections with those closest to you.

Prioritizing your holiday time means learning how to say no gracefully, Hummel stresses.

Worried about butting heads with your mother-in-law or dealing with an outspoken uncle? Even though we love them, spending time with relatives can send our blood pressure skyrocketing. Here are some expert tips for handling common stressful scenarios this holiday season.

STRESSFUL MOMENT #1 Every year, your motherin-law expects your family to travel several hours to her house on Christmas Eve and wake up to open presents in their home. You have accommodated her wishes for the past four years, but your children are growing up fast, and you would really like to have a Christmas morning spent in your own home. This is a conversation you have been dreading with her because you know it won’t go over well. {Albertson} Being realistic about what you want out of your holiday as a family comes with the idea of saying “no.” If driving several hours to see grandma means you’ll be stressed and your kids will have to spend their holiday in

the car, it may not be worth it.

It’s okay to be protective of yourself and your children in a situation like this. It doesn’t mean you’re going to win any popularity contests, but there are lots of different options for seeing relatives during the holidays. {Hummel} You might pose the idea that for this year, you have decided to do something different. Explain your desire to have your children have the opportunity to wake up in their own beds, and remind your in-laws how valuable your memories are of holiday mornings. The grandparents might come visit this year and have the experience of being with the grandchildren in their home, or another option would be to use technology and Skype the grandparents while opening gifts. Use the problem to become creative in finding alternatives and accomplishing what is important to your family.

Remember that one year of changing traditions does not set anything in stone.

STRESSFUL MOMENT #2 A relative gives a present to your child that you don’t approve of (think violent video games for your son or makeup for your 10-year-old daughter). To complicate things, your child loves the present.

{Hummel} One area that parents can focus on with their children is to be a grateful and gracious receiver.

Parenting is a process of role modeling. If a gift is received that feels inappropriate or you don’t like, find a way to say “thank you” anyway. There is plenty of time to discuss with your child that you do not feel that the content of the gift is age appropriate. Since your child will likely feel disappointed, you can explore the alternatives of other games that might be fun and make a return after the holiday. {Sarah Painer} (social worker for the Division of Social Services at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital): This situation has the potential to be a teachable moment for your kids. Offer them some options like, “We can keep this gift and you can have it when you’re old enough in a couple of years, or we can take the gift back to the store and find something more appropriate.” {Albertson} It’s okay to tell family members to run gifts by you and suggest some gift ideas. If your child does get a present you don’t approve of, maybe that present gets lost or packed in someone else’s bag. I remember getting the movie “Grease” when I was little, and my mom didn’t like the message that this woman had to change everything about herself for a man. So that movie magically disappeared after Christmas was over.

?!

STRESSFUL MOMENT #3 At a family get-together, an uncle loudly starts to voice his political or religious views, which are very different from the values promoted in your family. Your kids are listening with rapt attention, looking like they expect you to say something in response. {Hummel} When politics or religion come up, there is always a chance for humor.

You might say to your uncle, “Well someone had to open the can of worms called religion and politics! I feel like it is a most uncomfortable dinner table topic because it is guaranteed to spark disagreement. Not that I don’t appreciate a lively conversation, but I might suggest that we focus on topics that aren’t quite so divisive?”

Thank your uncle for sharing his opinion, as all opinions are valid, but not everyone has to be in agreement. Suggest that someone offer a topic that everyone might enjoy talking about together, or take control and assertively move on to another topic while you have the floor. {PAINER} This is a great time for a distraction! “Hey kids, let’s go look at the Christmas tree” or “Have you seen all the snow?” You can also enlist another adult to go intervene.

The holidays aren’t the time to be talking politics.

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STRESSFUL MOMENT #4 Your family has discussed a dollar limit for exchanging gifts. You really need to follow this guideline, but your sister keeps going way overboard on what she buys for your family, making you feel bad for sticking to your budget. {Albertson} That’s your sister’s prerogative, and if she gets snappy about it, just explain that you agreed on a budget and you’re sticking to it. Holiday spending can cause a lot of stress. If you and your spouse have decided to put

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away a certain amount for presents, stick to it and you’ll have a less stressful time afterward. You do not have to live up to other people’s financial expectations.

STRESSFUL MOMENT #5 You’ve recently learned that your son is allergic to gluten and nuts and have expressed these dietary restrictions to your mom and dad who are hosting the holiday dinner. As you all sit down to eat and you carefully select appropriate dishes for your son, your dad makes a loud proclamation that food

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // DECEMBER 2015

allergies in kids these days is overblown hype.

Everyone appears uncomfortable and they look at you to see how you will respond. {Hummel} All opinions and perspectives are just that – opinions and perspectives. We can always respectfully disagree without making the other person wrong or getting in a defensive argument.

Begin by thanking your dad for sharing his opinion and bringing up the topic. You can explain that you are in the process of learning and understanding what your pediatrician is teaching you, and you can explain that although you agree that any topic can get overblown, you are trying to respect your children’s doctor and follow their suggestions.

Although spending time with family can be a highlight of the holidays, it can also have its share of uncomfortable situations and unintended hurt feelings. Try to stay focused on the positive moments of the season that make it special for your family and do your best to keep the unpleasant ones from turning you into a Grinch.

New Year’s is just around the corner, which might be the perfect time to make a few resolutions about how to handle next year’s holiday!

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ARO UN D TOWN / / B R A N D E D CONTENT

Marvel Fans: Unite!

Your favorite superheroes are coming to Cincinnati Sarah McCosham

If your kids are into superheroes, then you probably know more about Spiderman, Iron Man, the Hulk and Thor than you ever thought you would. And now you’re a bona fide fan yourself!

So what could be a better gift for your super family than seeing your favorite characters come to life? Marvel Universe LIVE! is coming to Cincinnati Dec. 17-21 – and you’ve got to take the family to this show!

Produced by Feld Entertainment, Marvel Universe LIVE! will captivate audiences with an original story that brings more than 25 Marvel icons together in one epic quest. The Cosmic Cube, the source of ultimate power and one of the most feared and coveted treasures in the Marvel Universe, has been shattered into pieces by the Mighty Thor in order to prevent it from falling into the wrong

hands. With the pieces scattered across the globe, Thor’s villainous brother Loki devises a scheme to clone its powers, inciting a threat that could not only decimate Earth – it could obliterate the universe.

Marvel Universe LIVE! takes the typical live entertainment experience to a whole new level with cutting-edge special effects, pyrotechnics, aerial stunts, martial arts, motorcycles and more. This truly is a show of epic proportions: the Hulk stands 8’5” tall and took a staggering 1,500 hours to create; 28 giant trucks are needed to transport all of the supplies and sets for the show, and more computer power is needed to run the show’s projections than to power a space shuttle.

This show really is something to marvel at. The 53 performers devoted over three months to rehearsals. The cast is incredibly diverse and includes stunt men and women, gymnasts, dancers, actors and motorcycle riders. In other words, this cast is a real-life team of superperformers!

Kids young and old will be dazzled by the action and stunts performed by their favorite superheroes. The show puts fans and families right in the middle of one of the most electrifying battles ever between good and evil, says Dan DiPietro-James, Director of Communications for East Central Region Feld Entertainment Inc. “From pyrotechnics to motorcycle stunts, martial arts to aerial display, this show will have you hooked from the start.”

So December 17-21, join your favorite superheroes at U.S. Bank Arena as they team up to fight for justice – and, you know, the fate of the universe!

Show times for Marvel Universe LIVE! are Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015, 7 pm; Friday, Dec. 18, 2015, 7 pm; Saturday, Dec. 19, 2015, 11 am, 3 pm and 7 pm; and Sunday, Dec. 20, 2015, 1 pm and 5 pm. Tickets start at $20 for children ages 2-12 and $25 for adults, and can be purchased through Ticketmaster or the U.S. Bank Arena Box Office. To discover more, go to www.marveluniverselive.com, or visit Marvel Universe LIVE! on Facebook and YouTube.

[LEFT] The heroic cast of Marvel Universe LIVE! assembles to take on the most sinister villians in an epic battle to save the world.

[PHOTO CREDIT] ©2015 Marvel

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pressed for presents?

Lauren Lawson

Try the gift of lessons, experiences and activities instead!

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CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // DECEMBER 2015

h

ow many kids actually remember the “must have” toy they got last year? Think outside the proverbial (gift) box this holiday season and place a more memorable present underneath the tree. Try giving the gift of a novel experience, lessons to learn something new or a fun activity to share. Here are ten ideas that will have the children on your shopping list appreciating your special gift all year long.

The Blue Manatee

It’s hard to put a price tag on a reader’s love for books, but it is quite easy to turn that enthusiasm into a gift. As a sort of DIY subscription service, set a monthly allowance aside for a child to choose a new book from the Blue Manatee Bookstore in Oakley. With a cool vibe and kid-sized amenities, any reader would love to have the funds to choose a new book each month from this rad bookstore.

Check out a listing of visiting authors and Blue Manatee ActivAtees at www.bluemanatee books.com.

Season Tickets to The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

For the young thespian, tickets to a theatre production are the ultimate, uber-exciting stocking stuffer. The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati offers season tickets for terrific performances at an affordable price. Attendees can enjoy shows like Snow White and the Dancing Dwarfs or Shrek the Musical Jr. For kids who have the acting bug, the Children’ Theatre even offers classes on learning the craft. Grab tickets today at www.thechildrens theatre.com.

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Play Pass to Recreations Outlet

Bring outdoor fun inside this season by purchasing a Play Pass to the Recreations Outlet located in Milford and Liberty Township. This indoor jungle gym, complete with trampolines, swing sets, basketball hoops and more gives kids the opportunity for free play during those long winter months. Play Passes can be used anytime Recreations Outlet is open. Additional information can be found at www.Recreations Outlet.com.

Bear Paddle Swim Lessons

Swimming doesn’t have to be synonymous with summer, make splish-splashing a winter activity by purchasing swim lessons at Bear Paddle Swim School. A great gift for young learners, swim lessons are a purposeful, yet fun activity especially in the middle of Cincinnati’s cold season. Swim levels include: water adjustment, basics of swimming, flip to breathe and fundamentals of swimming. Grab those goggles and learn more at www.bearpaddle. com.

Duke Energy Children’s Museum

Looking for a gift that will last all year?

A membership to the Duke Energy Children’s Museum is the perfect present for kids who share a knack for discovery and learning. With hands-on activities, educational play areas and programming featuring reading and science, the Children’s Museum is the place to be this winter (and spring, fall and summer too!)

To learn about membership packages visit www.cincymuseum.org.

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Art Lessons: The Art Spark

For kids who love to draw and paint, art lessons are a fantastic present to give this season. The Art Spark is a creative classroom that enables students to use individual ideas and various mediums to create art. Parents can register for monthly sessions or sign up for whole year of classes. Winter Camps are also

available. Add some new watercolors or sharpened colored pencils to this gift to make a perfect present for that potential Picasso.

Learn more at www.theart spark.com.

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Unwrap adventure this holiday season with a family membership to the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. Check out the wild exhibits and walk the stunning grounds open daily throughout the year. Membership perks include early entry during spring and summer months, as well as free year-round admission to the Zoo and entry to the PNC Festival of Lights. To register visit www.cincinnatizoo.org.

Family Yoga at Shine Yoga Center

Give the gift of Namaste and enjoy a little family yoga time at Shine Yoga Center.

Designed for parents and children, classes combine classic yoga practices with fun adaptations that the whole family will love. With small classes and attentive teachers, students can work on strength, coordination and balancing skills.

Register at www.shineyoga.com.

The Newport Aquarium

A family pass to the Newport Aquarium is one of the more economical memberships to gift this season. Less than the price of two visits, kids will love to see their favorite sea creatures throughout the year. Walk across the Shark Bridge, chill out with some penguins and don’t forget to visit the otters and sharks too! Become a Passholder at www.NewportAquarium. com.

Music Lessons at Queen City Music Studio

A gift that keeps on giving, music lessons make quite the present for kids who love a tune. From instrument lessons to voice lessons, Queen City Music Studio provides students with a comprehension

and deep appreciation for the art of music. Pair lessons with tickets to the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and make music come to life in a very special way. To sign up for private, group or even in-house music lessons, visit www.queen citymusicstudio.com.

Skip the crowded shopping centers and sweat-inducing cyber sales to wrap up a different kind of gift this year. Live in the present this holiday season (no pun intended) and give a memory that will last all year.

Happy Holidays!

DECEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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

Successful Holiday Travel for a Child with Behavioral Issues Tips for making your visit go smoothly Sarah Painer, MSW, LISW-S, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital

The hustle and bustle of the holiday season can become overwhelming for anyone, but for those children who have behavioral concerns like ADHD or Oppositional Defiant Disorder, this time of year can be particularly challenging. Add in travel to relative’s homes and disruption to a typical routine, and you’ve got a scenario that becomes even more stressful. By anticipating your child’s needs in these situations however, parents can do much to prevent potential meltdowns. Here’s a few suggestions:

P lan ah ead Structure and routine are important to a child with behavioral concerns. Travelling tends to disrupt schedules, so as much as possible, try to maintain a sense of consistency. Prior to leaving for your holiday trip, spend some time deciding how your days will be spent. Build some structure into your child’s days, but also allow for some flexibly as he or she may need free time on their own. Schedule a

limited number of activities, and flag the activities in your mind that may be difficult for your child to participate in.

much during this time to avoid stomach aches, tantrums and other potential problems. Also, strive to maintain your child’s regular bedtime routine.

E ducate your hosts Talk with friends or family that will be hosting you about what they may expect from your child. Explaining possible behaviors that may be disconcerting to them, and what could trigger those behaviors, will be helpful for them to know in advance. Remember that too many events can be overstimulating for your child, so try not to overload your schedule.

When you first arrive, allow your child time to explore and become adjusted to their new surroundings.

Consider diet The holidays can be a time of indulgence in sugary, fatty foods. If your child has specific dietary restrictions, make sure to discuss this with your hosts prior to arrival.

Try not to alter your child’s regular diet too

T each self- control and calming techniq ues New environments can be exciting and fun, but also disruptive and chaotic for your child. Help him or her learn tools for self-control so something upsetting doesn’t turn into a tantrum. Suggest breathing exercises and give verbal cues or words of encouragement to help calm a charged situation. You can start at home before your scheduled travel to practice these techniques. While at your host’s home, it may be important to establish a specific place for quiet time, such as a guest bedroom. Also consider bringing toys from home that are familiar for your child.

Focus on t h e positive Your child has many strengths, and he or she needs to be reminded of them. Positive words of encouragement will help build their confidence to handle stressful situations.

Have your child remember how they handled something well in the past that was difficult.

The holiday season is a special time for all kids – those with behavior issues may just need a little more help managing the changes in routine it often involves. By anticipating your child’s needs, keeping your hosts in the loop and having strategies in place to cope with potential problems, you can make this season a happier time for everyone.

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FAMILY HEALTH // BRANDED CONTENT

Awareness of Holiday Health Hazards Help Families Make the Most of the Season Premier Health

The holiday season is a time for family and friends to celebrate the year, reflecting on how many things there are to be grateful for.

Homes are often filled with food, gifts and decorations, some of which may pose hazards if not monitored properly. Keeping safety in mind will help to ensure everyone in attendance will remain safe and healthy.

No holiday celebration would be complete without an abundance of delicious food and beverages, so basic food safety is a must.

The following tips will help ensure a healthier holiday season: • Wash hands and surfaces before handling food to reduce the possibility of crosscontamination.

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• Use separate cutting boards, knives and other utensils when preparing raw meats and other fresh foods for a meal.

• Cook foods to the U.S. Department of Agriculture recommended safe temperatures.

• Never leave perishable foods unrefrigerated for more than two hours.

• Designate a person to monitor foods during busy family gatherings to help ensure safety.

• Never leave alcoholic drinks unattended or within easy reach of small children.

• For more food safety tips, visit www.foodsafety.gov.

Holiday-related accidental injuries send more than 12,500 Americans to visit the emergency department each year, according

to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Small children – often as old as six – face special injury risks from decorations (including live plants and flowers), gift wrap, small plastic toys and burning candles. Loose gift wrap, small batteries, and plastic packaging can cause choking or suffocation.

Pets can also ingest foods, decorations and gift wrap that can be harmful, so keep an eye on your family’s four-legged friends.

Many popular foods including chocolate, coffee, grapes and certain types of nuts and seeds can be harmful. Talk with your veterinarian for more detailed information.

For more holiday safety tips or to find a Premier HealthNet physician near you, visit www.premierhealthnet.com/doctor.

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

Ask the Teacher School party stress, educational gifts and chaotic classrooms Deb Krupowicz

Q:

I am always guilted into signing up to organize my daughter’s classroom parties, and I almost always regret it. I become very anxious that the kids are not going to have fun and dread the craziness that is usually part of it. How can I turn this into a more pleasant experience?

A:

Parents tend to think that students require over-the-top games, treats and prizes to enjoy a school party. The truth is that even the simplest of parties is enjoyable in the school setting, where parties happen only a few times each year. Students are generally happy for any deviation from their typical routine.

First, do not assume that as the party coordinator you can do whatever you would like to do. Consult the teacher. Ask her to define how much time she would like the party to last and what she would like it to include. If she is flexible, ask her to describe the most successful parties that have been held in her room. Plan accordingly, showing respect for her as the one in charge of the room and the one who knows what her particular students can handle well.

Keep in mind that being well prepared includes more than just a good plan. Do as much as possible ahead of time so that set up takes almost no time. Select games with rules that are easy for students to understand. Choose simple treats that create only minimal mess. Be respectful of other volunteers and avoid micromanaging the part of the party they are responsible for. Model attentiveness when the teacher or other volunteers are speaking.

Allow time to clean up the classroom. Bring in a roll of paper towels and wet rags in plastic bags in case there is no sink in the room. Make sure all surfaces are wiped

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down and free of food or craft scraps.

Involve the students in picking up the floor and doing everything possible to return the classroom to its original condition. The last thing a teacher needs after a long day is a big mess to clean up!

Q:

What suggestions do you have for holiday gifts that have educational value? This time of year seems like a great opportunity to purchase gifts that have purpose.

A:

The obvious educational gift is a book. Put a different spin on that always-appropriate selection by turning it into an outing.

Purchase a gift card for a bookstore along with one for a restaurant or special dessert shop. Make arrangements to take the recipient out for the afternoon and turn the gift into a special event and memory.

Board games provide the opportunity to read and follow directions. Planning and forming strategies are key parts of playing traditional games like Risk, Sequence and chess as well as with more contemporary games, such as Ticket to Ride, Settling Catan and Carcassone Strategy Game.

Critical thinking skills are put to use when calculating moves and responding to the moves others make.

Puzzles are also great for developing spatial reasoning and complex thinking. Jigsaw puzzles help to develop a keen eye for detail and multi-dimensional rationale.

Crosswords expand vocabulary skills and foster out-of-the box thinking. Puzzles that require manipulation of pieces like Rush Hour and logic puzzle books help develop special strategy skills requiring prediction and visualization, as well as multi-step planning.

Q:

My son is having a very tough year due to a new teacher who cannot handle the class. From his description, there is a constant state of chaos and he cannot work.

I do not know if this is true or just an excuse. What should I do?

A:

A student’s perception of chaos may be an exaggeration, but it may also be quite accurate. In today’s educational environment of large classes with a small group focus, even what is very well organized may be noisy and make it difficult for some students to stay focused.

I would encourage your son to selfadvocate for a quieter work environment.

Role play with him so that he can practice using a respectful tone and choosing the right words to make his request of the teacher. He could offer to move to a quiet corner in the room or to work in the hallway.

If a simple solution does not solve the problem, request a conference with your son’s teacher. She will have additional insight regarding what is happening in the room and how your son is responding. A few minutes of an especially loud activity may have overshadowed the rest of the day in his mind, or one boisterous day could have translated to all days being that way to him. For some children, even the hum of the lights or the rattle of the fan can cause a distraction that seems chaotic and inhibits their productivity. The first place to start is to talk to the teacher who may have some strategies for your son to try so that he is able to get his work done. [ 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.

preschool and

education guide [CHILDCaRE // PRESCHOOL] Chai Tots E arly Ch ild hood 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!

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. Open House Dates: December 1st, 6:30-8:00pm and January 9th, 10:00-NOON. 2944 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: (513)533-5980, Email: rpsdirector03@gmail.com, Redeemerpreschoolhydepark.com, Grades: 2 1/2 - 5 years, Enrollment: 90

S K I DADDLE S

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

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.

Creative Tots , M ason

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

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

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.

T h e K inder G arden S chools

[MONTESSORI]

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.

Ch ildren ’ s Meeting House M ontessori S chool

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

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CINCINNATIPARENT.COM // DECEMBER 2015

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: 513-6834757, Email: reed@cmhschool.com, www. cmhschool.com, Grades: Preschool through Sixth grade, Enrollment: 160

Country Hills M ontessori 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

T h e G ood S h ep h erd C at holic Montessori Located just 1/2 mile north of Mariemont Square, GSCM is a unique Catholic Montessori school where each child can achieve his or her full potential in academics, faith and life. Set on a beautiful12-acre campus, GSCM features dynamic, nurturing Montessori teachers, individualized learning and self-paced acceleration. 3, 4 or 5 day preschool options, full day Kindergarten, and aftercare available. Spanish program beginning at age 3, unparalleled faith formation with the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, art, music, dance and drama enrichment are just few of reasons families love GSCM. Students score 36% higher than national average and 88% better on HS entrance exams. Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:12 4460 Berwick Street, Cincinnati, 513-271-4171, www.gscmontessori.org, Grades: 3-year olds through grade 8, including full-day Kindergarten, Enrollment: 200

Mercy Montessori 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 h e N ew S chool Montessori Centrally located and surrounded by wooded play yards and gardens, students benefit from a nurturing environment where Montessoricredentialed 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] C I NC I NNAT I H I LL S C H 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)2470900, 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 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

T h e S even Hills 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

S T. GE R T RU DE S C HO OL Saint Gertrude School offers academic excellence in the Dominican tradition: preaching Truth, practicing virtue, and loving one another in Christ. Students from 21 school districts. IOWA testing ranked 4th among 90 Cincinnati Catholic grade schools.

Aftercare, outdoor classroom, STEM, Rosary Procession, household intergrade leadership, Latin, professionally coached musical theater, extracurriculars.

6543 Miami Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45243, Contact: Elaine Nolte, Assistant Principal, Phone: 513-561-8020, stgertrudesch.org, Enrollment: 338

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

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

[SPECIaL NEEDS] S pringer S chool and Center 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

BE PART OF OUR MONTHLY EDUCATION GUIDE // CONTACT K ATIE@CINCINNATIPAREN T.com DECEMBER 2015 // CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

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DECEMBER EVENTS

DAILY calendar

DECEMBER 2015 TUES 01

FRI 04, 11 & 18

Arctic Express with Charlie Cadabra Hop on the Arctic Express and take a magical train trip around the world! Magician Charlie Cadabra helps us discover many winter holiday celebrations in a magical and entertaining learning experience designed for all ages.

Free Wagon Rides with Ringo & Joel!

Come take a stroll around the Farm in Ringo’s wagon! Gorman Heritage Farm’s fabulous farmyard volunteer, Joel, will be giving free rides with Ringo from 3 - 4:30 p.m.

Time: 6:30-7:15 p.m., Location: Mt. Washington Branch Library, http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org/ branches/mtwashington.html, Phone: 513-3696033

Run Free: The True Story of Caballo Blanco Feature documentary directed by Sterling Noren chronicles life of American ultra running legend Micah True (Caballo Blanco, or the White Horse) and his quest to create an ultra marathon in Mexico’s Copper Canyon.

Time: 7 p.m., Location: Esquire Theatre, http:// cincinnatirunning.blogspot.com/2015/10/ run-free-true-story-of-caballo-blanco.html

THURS 03 Be a Scrooge!

Engage your inner Scrooge by making a cool coin purse from a milk carton. Its Ebenezy peasy AND thrifty keen! Ages 10-18. No registration necessary.

Time: 3-4:30 p.m., Location: Hyde Park Branch Library, http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org/ branches/hydepark.html, Phone: 513-369-4456

FRI 04 – SUN 06 & SAT 12 – SAT 13 A Charlie Brown Christmas Bring your family and celebrate Christmas with our live rendition of your favorite holiday special! Don’t let the hustle and bustle of the holidays get you down - Charlie Brown and the rest of the Peanuts gang are here to remind us all about what’s most important during this Yuletide season. 2015 marks the 50th anniversary of the animated television special, A Charlie Brown Christmas.

Time: 7:30 p.m., Location: Taft Theatre, https:// www.thechildrenstheatre.com/mainstage/ details/a-charlie-brown-christmas, Phone: 513-569-8080, ext. 10

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Time: 1-3 p.m., Location: Washington Park, http:// washingtonpark.org/event/santasworkshop-9/2015-12-05/

SAT 05

Time: 3-4:30 p.m., Location: Gorman Heritage Farm, http://gormanfarm.org/visit-a-local-cincinnatifarm/gorman-heritage-farm-calendar-ofevents/, Phone: 513-563-6663

Lebanon Horse Drawn Carriage Parade & Festival The Lebanon Chamber of Commerce welcomes you on December 5, 2015 to Downtown Lebanon Ohio to experience an always memorable day for the whole family. From the street festival and entertainment to the premier day and evening parades, it’s not to be missed.

FRI 04 – SUN 06, FRI 11 – SUN 13, & FRI 18 – TUES 22

Time: 1-7 p.m., Location: Downtown Lebanon, https://www.facebook.com/ lebanoncarriageparade

North Pole Express Take a half hour train ride to the decorated LM&M Junction to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Take a moment to visit Santa and tell him your Christmas wishes. Each child will receive a small gift from Mr. Claus himself! Stop at the “Holiday Post Express” to color pictures or write letters to be delivered to Santa. Enjoy a holiday cookie and a cup of hot chocolate to keep you warm while you are entertained by Santa’s talented Elves! Come join us in all the fun for a special day to remember, and perhaps, the start of a cherished family tradition for you and your family.

Time: 11:30 a.m., 2p .m., 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m., Location: LM&M Railroad, http://lebanonrr.com/northpole. html, Phone: 513-933-8022, Ext. 101

FRI 04 – SUN 06 Christkindlmarkt An Authentic Outdoor German Christmas Market in the tradition of those held throughout Germany. Held the first weekend in December at Hamilton’s Historic German Village.

Time: Friday: 6-11 p.m., Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday: 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Location: Hamilton Marriott, https://www.facebook.com/ hamiltonchristkindlmarkt/timeline

SAT 05, 12 & 19 Santa’s Workshop Who needs long lines, pricey photo sets and grumpy kids? This year, ditch your annual trip to the mall and venture down to Washington Park. Every Saturday in December until Christmas, Santa and is merry band of Elves will be spending time in Washington Park making gifts, ornaments and other fun creations. Bring your family, bring your wish lists, but most all -- be sure to bring your cameras!

SAT 05 & 12 M ACY ’S DOWNTOWN DA ZZLE Celebrate the holidays as Santa and his friends rappel down the side of the Huntington Center onto the rooftop of Macy’s Fountain Place, followed by a spectacular fireworks display. Plus, visit Santa inside Macy’s Fountain Place starting November 27th!

Time: 6:30pm, Location: Fountain Square, http:// DowntownCincinnati.com

SUN 06 Brunch With Santa Start a family holiday tradition! Enjoy a delicious buffet, indulging in more than 25 items and a carving station. Santa will greet children and listen to wish lists. Each child will receive one complimentary photo. Advance registration is required. Winton Woods. Cost is $16.95/adult, $8/child ages 2–12 plus tax, children under 2 are free.

Time: Brunch at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Location: Winton Woods/Mill Race Banquet Center, http:// www.greatparks.org/calendar#, Phone: 513-5217275

Shalom Family Presents Funukkah Featuring the magic of Cleveland’s own Drew Murray, plus magic activities for kids of all ages, mini golf, laser tag, go karts, bowling, arcade games, potato pancakes and much more! This event is open to families with children 12 and under in which at least one parent is Jewish.

Older siblings and grandparents are always welcome.

Time: 6-8 p.m., Location: The WEB Extreme Entertainment, http://www.myshalomfamily.org/ Events/tabid/135/Default.aspx, Phone: 513-7033343

MON 07 – TUES 08

FRI 11 – SAT 12

Growing Up a Farm Kid: Holiday on the Farm Celebrate the winter holidays with the ponies at Parky’s Farm. Designed for children ages 2–5 accompanied by an adult. Cost is $10/child + one adult, $5/additional adult; register by 12/6.

The Elves and the Shoemaker When a kindly shoemaker gives his only remaining pair of shoes to a cold and hungry beggar woman, he finds his good deed rewarded in very unexpected ways. The shoemaker is shocked by the appearance of magic elves who turn his simple shoe shop into a great success, thrilling customers with their special creations.

Based on the tale by the Brothers Grimm, this beloved, warmhearted story reminds us that where we find goodness, generosity and hope, anything is possible. Recommended for grades PreK-4; tickets $5 each.

Time: 9:30-11 a.m., Location: Parky’s Farm, http:// www.greatparks.org/calendar#, Phone: 513-5217275

TUES 08 Will Hillenbrand’s Release Party for Bear and Bunny!

Join Blue Manatee in welcoming Will Hillenbrand to celebrate the launch of his new book, Bear and Bunny! A free event for all ages.

Time: 4-5 p.m., Location: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore, http://www.bluemanateebooks.com/ home/activatees.html, Phone: 513-731-2665

WEDS 09 Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical The beloved TV classic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer soars off the screen and onto the stage this holiday season. Come see all of your favorite characters from the special including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph, as they come to life. It’s an adventure that teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special.

Time: 6:30 p.m., Location: Aronoff Center, Procter & Gamble Hall, http://www.cincinnatiarts.org/events/ detail/rudolph, Phone: 513-621-2787

Time: Fri at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. & 7 p.m. & Sat at 10:30 a.m., Location: Calico Children’s Theatre at UC Clermont College, http://www.ucclermont. edu/community/arts/calico_theatre.html, Phone: 513-558-2787

FRI 11 – SUN 13 Holiday Pops Warm your heart with Christmas spirit and join Mr. Christmas John Morris Russell for family concert with the Pops. Grammy-winning quartet New York Voices sings alongside Pops to perform variety of holiday favorites. Dancers and appearance by Santa as well. Kids’ tickets just $10!

Time: 8 p.m., Location: Music Hall, http:// cincinnatisymphony.org/concerts-plusevents/2015-16-pops-season-listing/holidaypops/

SAT 12 Gingerbread House M aking Create holiday memories that your child will talk about for years to come. Spend the morning/ afternoon with your child as you learn how to

make gingerbread from scratch, create your edible architectural masterpiece and decorate with fervor. Sign up today because this class sells out fast! Cost: $50 per member; $60 per non-member; $30 per additional house. Ages 6+ welcome.

Time: 1-3:30 p.m., Location: Gorman Heritage Farm, http://gormanfarm.org/visit-a-local-cincinnatifarm/gorman-heritage-farm-calendar-ofevents/, Phone: 513-563-6663

SAT 12 – SUN 13 Holly Days Travel back in time to feel the warmth and beauty of a 19th Century holiday season. Our historical buildings will be decked out with traditional decorations from the 1800’s. See our Village come alive with storytelling, craft making, model train displays, music, holiday treats, music and more! Admission is $8 adults, $5 children 5-11. Free for children 4 and under and museum members.

Time: 12-4 p.m., Location: Heritage Village Museum, http://www.heritagevillagecincinnati.org/ contact_us.aspx, Phone: 513-563-9484

SUN 13 Brunch With Santa Start a family holiday tradition! Enjoy a delicious buffet, indulging in more than 25 items and a carving station. Santa will greet children and listen to wish lists. Each child will receive one complimentary photo. Advance registration is required. Winton Woods. Cost is $16.95/adult, $8/ child ages 2–12 plus tax, Free/children under 2.

Time: Seatings at 10 a.m. & 12:30 p.m., Location: Winton Woods/Mill Race Banquet Center, http:// www.greatparks.org/calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

FRI 11 A Christmas Carol Experience Dickens’ classic tale performed as a live 1930s style radio program, complete with live Foley sound effects and classic radio jingles.

Time: 8 p.m., Location: Warren County History Center, http://www.wchsmuseum.org/events/holiday_ events-18/%22a_christmas_carol%22-73, Phone: 513-932-1817

Story Time: A Penguin Story Bring your little one to create art in our glass story time! This week, we’ll read “A Penguin Story” by Antoinette Portis, then your young artist will create a pair of standing penguins of their own using our safe and beautiful glass components. Ages 3-6.

Students must wear closed-toed shoes in the studio.

Time: 1:30 p.m., Location: Brazee Street Studios, http://www.brazeestreetstudios.com/ products/a-penguin-story, Phone: 513-321-0206

G I NGE RBRE AD HOUS E M AK I NG AT G OR M A N H E R I TAGE FAR M , S AT, DE CE MBE R 1 2 t H

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TUES 15

MON 21

WEDS 30

Kid’s Activity Hour - Merry Grinch-mas!

Get into the spirit of the season with a holiday craft, treat and a classic Christmas movie! All materials provided. Families Welcome.

M aker M adness: Winter L anterns Greet Winter Solstice with a lantern, to brighten up the long winter nights. Ages 7-14. Registration required.

Are You a Little Critter?

Today is Mercer Mayer’s birthday! Let’s celebrate Little Critter style! What’s your favorite adventure the Little Critters get into? We’ll read some of them and make our own Little Critter puppet! Join us for this fun story and craft time!

Best for ages 3-5. Free; please call 513-731-2665 to reserve your spot. Space is limited.

Time: 6:30-7:30 p.m., Location: Miami Township Branch Library, http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org/ branches/miamitownship.html, Phone: 513-3696050

THURS 17 Storytelling by the Fireside Warm yourself by the fire as members of the Cincinnati Storytellers Guild spin winter festival stories. Free.

Time: 7 p.m., Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve Amphitheatre, http://www.greatparks. org/calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

Time: 4-4:45 p.m., Location: Green Township Branch, http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org/ branches/greentownship.html, Phone: 513-3696095

WEDS 23 Winter Festivities Kick off your Winter Break by making a holiday themed craft! Create a unique button or play a round of “book character” bingo.

Time: 12-5 p.m., Location: Corryville Branch Library, http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org/branches/ corryville.html, Phone: 513-369-6034

SAT 26 THURS 17 – SUN 20 M arvel Universe LIVE! Marvel fans, assemble! Marvel Universe LIVE! is taking the live entertainment experience to a whole new level, with a mind-blowing show unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Time: 7 p.m., Location: U.S. Bank Arena, http:// usbankarena.com/event/2015/12/marveluniverse-live, Phone: 800-745-3000

Ornament Open House Is your family in town for the holidays? Celebrate together and make glass art! Bring your parents, grandparents, siblings, and children to this introductory class and create fused glass ornaments for each other or someone you love. Open to all ages (we suggest 4+), kids young and old!

Time: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Location: Brazee Street Studios, http://www.brazeestreetstudios.com/ products/ornament-open-house, Phone: 513-321-0206

Time: 3-4:30 p.m., Location: Hyde Park Branch Library, http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org/branches/ hydepark.html, Phone: 513-369-4456

Story Time: Little Pea Bring your little one to create art in our glass story time! This week we will read “Little Pea” by Amy Kouse Rosenthal. After the story, your little artist will create a charming suncatcher inspired by “Little Pea.” Students will use our safe and beautiful glass components to design and create their piece. Ages 3-6. Students must wear closed-toed shoes in the studio.

Time: 1:30 p.m., Location: Brazee Street Studios, http://www.brazeestreetstudios.com/products/ story-time-little-pea, Phone: 513-321-0206

SUN 20 Taffy Pull Meet in the historic barn for this old-fashioned taffy pull where everyone pulls the taffy candy until it is just the right consistency for cutting and wrapping in waxed paper to take home. Cost is $6/person; register by 12/17.

Time: 1 p.m., Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve/Ellenwood Nature Barn, http://www. greatparks.org/calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

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Harlem Globetrotters The iconic Harlem Globetrotters are coming to the US Bank Arena in Cincinnati, OH with their unrivaled family show, featuring some of the greatest athletes on the planet. With incredible ball handling wizardry, amazing rim-rattling dunks and trick shots, side-splitting comedy and unequaled on-court fan interaction, this must-see event is guaranteed to entertain the whole family creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Time: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Location: U.S. Bank Arena, http://www.harlemglobetrotters.com/event/ harlem-globetrotters-us-bank-arena-7, Phone: 800-745-3000

THURS 31

Winter Break Fun Days Don’t let cabin fever creep up on you! Bring the family to the park today to participate in an indoor scavenger hunt and games. Kids can make up to two winter-themed crafts to take home.

Cost is $1/craft, payable at the door.

Family New Year’s Eve Celebration Music, games and crafts will kick off the New Year in a nature-themed way. Your family will love live animal programs and entertainment by John Louis of On the Edge of Illusion. The great New Year’s ball will drop at 7 p.m. while we dance to the tunes of the Boylan Family Band.

Cost is $6/person, free/child ages 2 and under.

Register by 12/29.

Time: 1-4 p.m., Location: Miami Whitewater Forest, http://www.greatparks.org/calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

Time: 4-7 p.m., Location: Woodland Mound/ Seasongood Nature Center, http://www. greatparks.org/calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

SUN 27

Happy Zoo Year Ring in the Zoo Year with a bunch of “party animals!” Kids of all ages are invited to ring in the Happy Zoo Year as the Cincinnati Zoo holds its very own New Year’s Eve bash.

FRI 18 Star Wars Life Day Celebration Instead of Christmas, everyone celebrates Life Day in the Star Wars universe. Hyperspace on down to the Library, use the Force, and celebrate with contests, crafts and treats.

Time: 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Location: Blue Manatee Children’s Bookstore, http://www. bluemanateebooks.com/home/activatees.html, Phone: 513-731-2665

Nature Jeopardy Test your knowledge of animals, weather, geology, plants and more. Bring your friends, family and holiday visitors out for a fast-paced brain test of nature factoids. Can you meet the challenge and capture the prize? This program is also great for homeschool families. Free!

Time: 2 p.m., Location: Winton Woods, http://www. greatparks.org/calendar#, Phone: 513-521-7275

MON 28 Stars in a Jar! Bring the constellations indoors with your own DIY star projector! Ages 10-18. Registration required.

Time: 2-3 p.m., Location: Mt. Washington Branch Library, http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org/ branches/mtwashington.html, Phone: 513-3696033

Time: 8 p.m., Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, http://cincinnatizoo.org/events/ festival-of-lights/, Phone: 513-281-4700

Huntington Bank New Year’s Eve Blast Ring in 2016 with friends and fellow Cincinnatians on Fountain Square! Enjoy music from DJ Tweet, wacky games and prizes, dance contests and more. Rozzi’s famous fireworks will light the sky when the clock strikes midnight.

Skate rentals are $4, but patrons are welcome to bring their own skates.

Time: 7 p.m., Location: Fountain Square, http:// myfountainsquare.com/event/huntington-banknew-years-eve-blast/

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ONGOING EVENTS U. S . Bank Ice R ink Now through Feb. 15, 2016 The U.S. Bank Ice Rink on Fountain Square is now open for business! Amenities include skate rental, lockers, benches, and concessions options.

Cost: $6.00 admission and $4.00 skate rental.

Events during the holidays include: Turkey Bowl on Nov. 24; Macy’s Light Up the Square on Nov. 28; Santa Skates: Nov 28 & Nov 29, Dec 5 & 6, Dec 12 & 13, Dec 19 & 20; and New Year’s Eve Blast: Dec 31. Make a family tradition at Fountain Square!

Times vary by season; check website for details., Location: Fountain Square, http:// myfountainsquare.com/event/u-s-bank- icerink-10/, Phone: 513-381-0782

A Ch ristmas S tory: T h e Musical Now through Dec. 31st Ralphie Parker wants only one thing for Christmas: An official Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200-shot Range Model Air Rifle! A Christmas Story: The Musical is the hilarious account of Ralphie’s desperate quest to ensure that this most perfect gift ends up under his tree this Christmas.

Tickets are $57 and $73.

Times: Shows on Wednesdays-Sundays., Location: La Comedia Dinner Theatre, http:// lacomedia.com/playbill/, Phone: 800-677-9505

Holiday Junction featuring t h e Duke E nergy Holiday T rains Now through Jan. 3, 2016 Holiday Junction is back and it’s going to be one of the best years yet! With more lights, new trains and lots of family-friendly activities, you’ll have plenty of reasons to be a part of the magic all season long. Duke Energy customers can get free vouchers to this beloved event.

Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, http:// www.cincymuseum.org/holiday/duke-energyholiday-trains

Holiday in L igh ts Now through Jan. 2, 2016 Come out for a Cincinnati holiday tradition!

Enjoy more than a mile of fantastic seasonal lights all from the warmth of your car. See more than 120 moving and standing holiday-themed figures depicting everything from Santa to the 12 Days of Christmas. Cost is $13/car, $45/buses & 15-passenger vans.

Times: Sun–Thu 6–9 p.m. & Fri–Sat, 5:30–10 p.m., Location: Sharon Woods, http://www. holidayinlights.com/home, Phone: 513-7690393

S antaland Nov. 27th through Dec. 23rd A ntiq ue Ch ristmas Now through Jan. 3, 2016 Escape to a winter wonderland of Christmas past at the Taft’s annual display of antique ornaments, decorations, and toys. Learn more about the festive display here. Kathy and Steward “Greg” Gregory, lenders to the exhibition, will discuss their collection in upcoming gallery talks.

Times: Open daily Nov. 6-Jan.3, 2016. Closed Mondays, Nov. 26 and Dec. 25, Location: Taft Museum of Art, http://www.taftmuseum.org/ holidays-at-the-taft, Phone: 513-352-5134

G ingerbread House Display Now through Dec. 30th See the imaginative, whimsical, and heartwarming creations from our Gingerbread House Contest on display on the museum’s central “Village Green,” the heart of the museum where one can browse “shops” of downtown Lebanon.

Beginning December 1, the first place winners will be moved to Glendower Historic Mansion’s “Christmas at Glendower,” but the rest of the entries will remain on display.

Time: Nov 27, 10 am-4 pm and 6:30 pm-8:30 pm; December 1-30, Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 am to 4 pm, Saturdays 10 am to 5 pm. Closed Sundays and Mondaysm=, Location: Warren County History Center, http://www. wchsmuseum.org/events/holiday_events-18/ gingerbread_house_display-69, Phone: 513-932-1817

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After your tour of Holiday in Lights, head inside Sharon Centre for some more holiday magic.

Enjoy live family friendly entertainment, share your wish list with Santa, check out the train display, do some holiday shopping at Nature’s Niche and pick up a sweet treat at Mrs. Claus’ Confectioneries.

Times: Sun–Thu, 6–9 p.m. & Fri–Sat, 5:30–10 p.m., Location: Sharon Woods, http://www. holidayinlights.com/santaland.html, Phone: 513-769-0393

T h e Legendary L igh ts of Clifton M ill Now through Dec. 31st For 27 years Clifton Mill has celebrated the Christmas season in a very special way. Our light display is one of the country’s finest with over 3.5 million lights illuminating the mill, the gorge, the riverbanks, trees and bridges. Every night until the night before Christmas Eve you can peek into Santa’s Workshop to see a live Santa at work and then, every 15 minutes or so, watch him check his list and go up the chimney to load his sleigh!

Time: Gates open every day at 5 p.m., the lights come on at 6 p.m. Gates close at 9 p.m.; lights go off 30 minutes after gates close. On Christmas Eve, Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the display closes at 8 p.m., Location: Clifton Mill, http:// www.cliftonmill.com/christmas.htm, Phone: 937-767-5501

PNC F estival of L igh ts Now through Jan. 2, 2016 The PNC Festival of Lights has been a family holiday tradition for over 30 years and is the largest holiday light display in Cincinnati. This display has over 2 million LED lights, and features a Fairyland, Candy Cane Forest, Madcap puppets, Wild Light Show on Swan Lake, North Pole Express train rides and visits with Santa!

Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, http:// cincinnatizoo.org/events/festival-of-lights/, Phone: 513-281-4700

I rving Berlin ’ s W h ite Ch ristmas Now through Dec. 6th Irving Berlin’s White Christmas tells the story of two buddies putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn and finding their perfect mates in the process. Full of dancing, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas promises a merry and bright theatrical experience for the whole family!

Time: Shows run Tuesday-Sunday from Nov. 24-Dec. 6; check website for times, Location: Aronoff Center, http://www.cincinnatiarts.org/ events/detail/white-christmas, Phone: 513-6212787

P oinsettia E xpress Now through Jan. 3, 2016 The traditional holiday show at Krohn with trains, flowers and holiday magic! Open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Adults $7, Youth (5-12 years old) $4 and Children (1-4 years old) free!

Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, Location: Krohn Conservatory, http://www.cincinnatiparks.com/ cinciparks-full-calender#year=2015&month=11& day=1&view=month, Phone: 513-352-4080

Ch ristmas At E nter T R A I Nment Junction Daily through Jan. 2, 2016 Create a holiday tradition for your family! 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. See our “Main Street Holiday Trains” displays which offers some beautiful winter train displays that are FREE to the public.

Time: Open daily; December 12-23 and December 26-30, enjoy extended hours until 9 p.m. The Junction is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day and closes at 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Santa goes on vacation after Christmas., Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, http://www. entertrainmentjunction.com/cincinnati_ entertainment_and_attractions_calendar, Phone: 513-898-8000

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.

F risch ’ s P resents t h e N utcracker Dec. 18th Through Dec. 27th

Choose & C ut Ch ristmas T rees Nov. 27th through Dec. 20th

Clara receives the gift of a lifetime when her beloved Nutcracker doll comes to life! Follow Clara and her Nutcracker Prince on a journey to a wondrous world full of fantastic characters.

The Snow Queen and her King will help you find your way to the Land of Sweets where the Sugar Plum and Cavalier are waiting to welcome you with sweet treats and exotic celebrations!

Indulge yourself in Tchaikovsky’s most popular work, with live instrumentation by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, and revel in the magic and wonder that is Cincinnati’s favorite holiday tradition.

Cut your own Christmas Trees is a great family tradition from Thanksgiving until Christmas. We have Scotch Pine, White Pine, Canaan Fir, Norway Spruce, Serbian Spruce, Douglas Fir and Blue Spruce, plus a nice selection of small live potted Christmas trees. We shake and wrap every tree and have wreaths, stands and decorations to complete your Christmas tree shopping. Complimentary hot chocolate and popcorn!

Located just south of the big red barn -- look for the little red tree barn next to Route 68.

Time: Shows on Friday, Dec 18 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec 19 at 2 and 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Dec 20 at 1 and 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Dec 22 at 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Dec 23 at 2 and 7:30 p.m., Saturday Dec 26 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 27 at 1 p.m., Location: Procter & Gamble Hall at the Aronoff Center, https://cballet.org/ index.php/nutcracker, Phone: 513-621-5282

Holiday Toy T rains Now through Jan. 18, 2016 Layout features Lionel trains and Plasticville.

More than 250 feet of track. Patrons welcome to operate more than 30 accessories from buttons on layout!

Times: Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdaySaturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Closed Mondays. , Location: Behringer-Crawford Museum, http:// www.bcmuseum.org/index.php?option=com_ content&view=article&id=48&Itemid=107, Phone: 859-491-4003

T h e Beach Mountain Now through Mar. 1, 2016 Snow tube down snowy 400-foot-long run and ride a moving carpet back to the top! Features 10 lanes for tubing with sessions starting at 2 hours each. Winter chalet to warm up and buy hot food and beverages. Play area for small children to make snowmen or snow angels and try tube ride on mini slope.

Location: The Beach Waterpark, www. thebeachmountain.com, Phone: 513-398-7946

S anta’ s Works hop Nov. 24th through Dec. 31st Shillito’s Department Store handcrafted a holiday display in 1979 as a Christmas attraction for the city. More than 130 animated figures were created to fill 10 interior vignettes, 7 storefront windows, and over 20 other merchandizing widows throughout the store.

Both animated as well as non-animated elves were created to tell a story through a series of scenes starting at the beginning where children drop off their letters to Santa in a big mailbox and end where Santa’s sleigh is being loaded full of toys for the big night. Today, Cincinnatians can see these elves in all their original glory in Downtown Mariemont.

Time: Open Tuesday-Friday: 2-8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Location: Downtown Mariemont, http://thesantaworkshop.com/, Phone: 513-620-4353

Time: Open Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy, http://youngsdairy.com/ christmas-trees, Phone: 937-767-7288

C incideutsch Ch ristkindlmarkt Nov. 27th through Dec. 20th Authentic German Christmas market in heart of Cincinnati featuring Gluhwein, holiday gifts and decorations and live entertainment. Occurs alongside Macy’s Light Up the Square and the Macy’s-DCI Downtown Dazzle.

Time: Fridays from 4-9 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Location: Fountain Square, http://cincideutsch. com/christmasMarket.php

S anta S kates Nov. 28th through Dec.20 (weekends only) Every weekend from Thanksgiving until Christmas, Santa will lace up his skates and join families out on the ice for an hour of holidayfilled fun. Grab your friends, family and wish list and get down to the Square before Santa makes his way back to the North Pole! Rink admission is $6.00 and Skate Rentals are $4.00.

Time: 12-1 p.m., Location: Fountain Square, http://myfountainsquare.com/ event/u-s-bank-ice-rink-10/, Phone: 513-3810782

Ch ristmas at Glendower Dec. 4th through 27th Bring the whole family to enjoy a guided tour of this beautiful historic Greek-Revival mansion, which will be professionally decorated for the holidays. The theme this year is “Christmas Traditions.” In addition, see the first place winners from our Gingerbread House Contest on display throughout the house.

Time: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays 1-5 p.m., Location: Glendower Historic Mansion, http:// www.wchsmuseum.org/events/holiday_ events-18/christmas_at_glendower-49, Phone: 513-932-1817

Water Waterland wit h S cu b a S anta Nov. 27th through Dec. 31st Discover the magic of the all-NEW Water Wonderland with Scuba Santa® as Newport Aquarium presents a holiday celebration under the sea. It’s an experience that’s overflowing with enchantment and fun new experiences the whole family will love. Join the fun as Scuba Santa fills his air tank with magic bubbles - and sends them throughout the Aquarium creating an enchanted Water Wonderland. Be amazed as you’re surrounded by lights and bubbles dancing to holiday music in Shark Ray Bay Theater, where you’ll also have the opportunity to meet Scuba Santa one-on-one.

Time: 11a.m.-4p.m., Location: Newport Aquarium, https://www.newportaquarium. com/What-to-do-in-cincinnati/AquariumEvents/Scuba-Santa, Phone: 859-815-1471

T h e Art of t h e Brick Daily through May 8, 2016 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

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resource directory {CINCINNATI PARENT}

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FUN &WACKY

CINCINNaTI PaRENT // DECEMBER 2015

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

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