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BACKYARD GAMES: OUTDOORS TOGETHER
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WAYS TO CELEBRATE DAD NOW! FAMILY STAY-CATION: REGIONAL ADVENTURES
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June/July insiDE NortheastOhioParent.com
departments 06
EDITOR'S NOTE Summer Chill
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features
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CELEBRATE DAD
50 creative ways to acknowledge all the fathers in your life.
COMMUNITY FOCUS: LAKEWOOD
We share why Lakewood is a great option for families to live and visit.
Fun Guide
WORTH NOTING Families and daycare, ‘Stop the Hate’ essay contest winner, book reviews, Reading Room and more!
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EDUCATION CORNER
Online and offline summer learning ideas to combat the COVID-19 slide.
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BUSINESS BUZZ Listing of local organizations that shine year-round.
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SUN, SAND AND SCIENCE Thinking about hitting the beach this summer? Try these hands-on learning activities with sand.
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BABY’S FIRST SUMMER How to gear-up and safely celebrate the season with an infant.
TEEN TALK Create a new summer routine for your tweens and teens.
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PLAN YOUR STAYCATION Five ways to make the best of your summer in Northeast Ohio.
DAD MATTERS COVID-19 perspective and prayers.
34 HAVE A SAFE SUMMER Things to keep in mind, even if you’ll be at home.
35 SUMMER LISTINGS Where to go and what to do with your family this summer.
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24 GAME ON
Get nostalgic with classic backyard games and read up on rules for some new favorites.
ON THE COVER: Andrew and his family, Chris, Vanessa and Emma Finan celebrate early summer weather in their backyard for our June/July cover photo shoot. Photo by Kim Stahnke Photography kimstahnkephotography.com
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VOL. NO. 7 • ISSUE NO. 06
June/ July 2020 Northeast Ohio Parent is a property of
PO Box 1088 Hudson, OH 44236 330-822-4011 NortheastOhioParent.com PUBLISHER - Brad Mitchell
brad@northeastohioparent.com 330-714-7712 EDITORIAL:
EDITOR - Angela Gartner
angela@northeastohioparent.com 216-536-1914 CONTRIBUTING EDITOR - Marisa Palmieri Shugrue marisa@northeastohioparent.com DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER - Denise Koeth
denise@northeastohioparent.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER - Sherry Lundberg
sherry@northeastohioparent.com ADVERTISING SALES:
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Summer Chill It’s finally summer in Northeast Ohio. After months of quarantine, (which in most ways felt like years, especially when you have two restless kids and newly assigned homeschool duties), we can get outdoors to blue skies and sunshine. While we all might still be closer to home due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, things are starting to open again — we can head to the zoo, a park or beach, hit a local restaurant and even step inside a museum. You can also still find summer education opportunities for kids — virtual, inperson or through your local library reading program. However, I concede, this season isn’t as we planned. Our typical trips were canceled and our kids’ sports schedules have changed drastically. With this summer being different, I am learning not to worry. For families, life can be hectic, filled with activities and places to go or do. The quarantine forced us to stop and think about our routines. It also allowed us to try something new or maybe take up an old hobby. We got to spend more family time, even with our four-legged members. (In fact, it seemed to be a puppy-kitty boom, as many friends got a new pet during months at home.) That’s why in this issue, I wanted to reflect a bit on how to slow down and make your family plans in new ways. Whether you’re looking to spend time in your backyard, take a family staycation or you just need a new idea for where to go in the region — we have plenty of options. For new parents, Jessica Dill, former Fox 8 morning anchor and Northeast Ohio Parent magazine blogger, shares fun summer baby activities. We also don’t forget about dads, whom we want to celebrate all month long. We provided 50 ideas to get you started — and some tunes for his playlist. Finally, now more than ever, it’s a good time to talk to your kids, in an ageappropriate manner, about racism and mistreatment of others. The world is ever-changing — and 2020 seems to be the year that keeps us spinning. For families, this summer, we just have to go with the flow — also, hope for some fun and good changes. See you in August!
PUBLISHER OF: 2020
PHOTO BY PRELUDE PHOTOGRAPHY
Editor's NOTE
Proud member of
Parenting Media
Association
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Worth NOTING
#WFH with the little ones Work From Home
PARENTS BALANCE WORK AND FULL-TIME CHILD CARE
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hile plenty of Zoom calls and e-learning obligations come with a family’s schoolaged children right now, working parents with kids younger than kindergarten face unique challenges. Their infants, toddlers and preschoolers require full-time care and attention. For Liz Poest of Macedonia, mom of Riley, 7, Hudson, 4, and Harper, 6 months, life is all thrown into the same box right now. “My life is no longer compartmentalized,” Poest says. “I used to have time at the office for work, and then time at home with the kids, but now I’m on all the time.” To combat this all-day multitasking, parents rise early or stay up late for uninterrupted work time. Secluding themselves to a home office or bedroom during the day is helpful, but sounds of a baby crying for a diaper change or to be fed every couple hours, or a toddler falling in the next room make it difficult to stay on task. Debby Samples of West Park tries to prepare activities that her preschooler can do on her own while she’s in a meeting. While things don’t always
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By Amy Brown go according to plan, it’s best to keep things in perspective. “If I have a heavy day of meetings, my daughter will likely have more screen time and snacks than she would in normal circumstances,” Samples says. “At the end of the day, she had a good time soaking up some kid shows, and I was able to participate in and contribute to work projects I enjoy.” Both moms agree when we stop putting pressure on ourselves to do everything perfectly, everyone gets through the day a little easier. “We’re doing better than we think we are,” Poest says. “We’re hard on ourselves, but this is an impossible time. We’re not going to be able to do it all, all the time.” As local child care centers and preschools begin to reopen, some parents now have the opportunity to resume a partial sense of normalcy. State-mandated precautions for child care providers include daily temperature checks, limited childto-teacher ratios, smaller group activities and rigorous hand-washing requirements for staff and students. “We are going above and beyond to
provide a safe, healthy and enriching environment for children during this time,” says Kristen Newberry, director at Salvation Army Learning Zone Preschool Center. “We are following all state mandatory requirements for the pandemic and more, including teachers wearing masks, curbside pickup and drop-off, temperature checks throughout the day, individual busy bins, and sanitizing.” However, some parents are still hesitant to head back too soon. “I have a tremendous amount of confidence in the team at my daughter’s school and know they are putting an incredible amount of time and effort into making sure they are using the best practices to not only make the kids and staff feel safe, but also comfortable,” Samples says. “All this being said, I will likely wait for the world to settle a bit before sending her back to school.” Regardless of how you choose to balance working at home and caring for your youngest kiddos, hang in there. “This time feels very long because we’re in it,” Poest says. “But looking back, it’ll be a blip on the timeline.”
BOOK
REVIEW
TEACHING KIDS ABOUT DIVERSITY “I Love Me!”
By LaRonda Gardner Middlemiss, Illustrated by Beth Hughes In these times of protests regarding the death of George Floyd, racism and police brutality, it may be difficult to engage in conversations with children about these topics, especially in an age-appropriate manner. The book “I love Me!” celebrates everyone’s differences and promotes a good self-image. It also teaches kids about diversity, but can open the discussion about mistreatment of others in the community, bullying and racism. — Angela Gartner
Library Summer Reading Programs EDITOR’S REVIEW
LEARNING IN A BOX: WONDER CRATE For kids, especially as they get older, it feels more difficult to engage them in learning activities that don’t involve smart devices. Instead of thinking digitally, Wonder Crate provides a handson experience inside a box. Wonder Crate Jr. (ages 5-7) and Wonder Crate Kids (ages 8-11) is a monthly box subscription. A book and educational activities come in a tin retro lunch box or a cotton tote bag. Kids can choose combinations or individual boxes of the Activists, Sports Heroes, Innovators and Artists Series. For example, my 11-year-old son received a Sports Heroes Series box for Jesse Owens, a track and field athlete, Olympic Gold medalist and world record holder. It included the book “Who was Jesse Owens?” by James Buckley Jr., a stopwatch, jump rope and a sheet of strength-training exercises. It provided an opportunity for him to learn more about the African American athlete from Cleveland and to add some motivation to his current work-out regime. There is also an excitement about receiving the box, looking at what’s inside and learning about people who are inspirational and creative — not just for your kids. It can be a great family discussion and activity.
Expand your child’s learning with books this summer. Even though area libraries may have limited hours or may not be open yet, many have made sure this summer staple is still an option. Check out the summer reading programs offered by libraries in the greater Cleveland/Akron area at NortheastOhioParent.com.
VISIT POE HOUSE (VIRTUALLY) IN BALTIMORE
Can’t get out of town with the family? The Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum is offering a live virtual tour of the historic building led by a real museum docent. Learn about Poe’s history and peek inside this small house where he wrote some of his best stories and poems. poeinbaltimore.org/virtual-tour/
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Tours happening through June 27
ONLINE THIS SUMMER NORTHEASTOHIOPARENT.COM
If you love our monthly magazine, be sure to visit our website for even more great content you won’t find anywhere else.
AT-HOME FUN & LEARNING
Just because summer break has arrived doesn’t mean kids can’t continue learning and taking virtual field trips. Avoid the summer slide and stay entertained, as we continue to share online education resources and virtual adventures.
REOPENING OHIO
Not sure what’s open and what’s not? Before you make summer plans for your family, check our site for updates on area attractions, opening dates, and new health and safety procedures.
Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine's Calendar Will be Online This Summer! Due to the coronavirus pandemic, many of the region's happenings have been postponed. Check out event updates at NortheastOhioParent.com
wondercratekids.com — Angela Gartner
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Worth NOTING Hudson High School Senior Wins 2020
‘Stop the Hate Youth Speak Out’ Essay Contest
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hile the COVID-19 outbreak prevented The Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage from having its annual ceremony for the Stop the Hate Youth Speak Out contest, it didn’t spoil the winner’s surprise. Leah Messemer, a senior at Hudson High School, was named the $40,000 college scholarship winner for her essay on combating discrimination and advocating for people with disabilities. Museum and school officials gathered in front of her Hudson home wearing face masks and holding congratulatory signs as Stop the Hate committee vice chair Scott Simon called Leah’s name from a megaphone to bring her out of the house. That’s when committee chair, Darrell McNair, hand-
PHOTOS COURTESY OF MALTZ MUSEUM OF JEWISH HERITAGE
ed Leah a symbolic oversized check for a $40,000 four-year college scholarship and her school principal a check for $5,000 to be used toward anti-bias education. Stop the Hate is a contest that celebrates sixth through 12th grade students who have an opportunity to stand up and speak out against bias and bigotry as they compete for the chance to win a prestigious award. Each year about 3,000 students enter, and with the help of 400 volunteer readers, 25 finalists are named, but there can only be one grand prize winner. The essays were competitive; many had themes including racial disparity, discrimination against race and religion and body shaming. In addition to the many prizes awarded to students and schools, there were three student runners-up who received big awards. The first runner-up, Nia Terrell, a senior at Charles F. Brush High School, won a $15,000
scholarship for her essay focused on closing the gender and racial gap in technology. The second runner-up, Faicia Giddings, a junior at Cleveland School for the Arts, won a $10,000 scholarship for her essay on helping people learn about other cultural perspectives. The third runner-up, Kennedy Fletcher, a senior at Shaker Heights High School, won a $5,000 scholarship for her essay on helping young black women have confidence and self-love. — Malz Museum of Jewish Heritage
READINGROOM “Strike Zone” By Derek Jeter In the seventh book in the middle grade series inspired by the life of iconic New York Yankee Derek Jeter, young Derek and his friends learn the true meaning of teamwork when they have to embrace the unexpected on their baseball team. “Pete the Cat’s Family Road Trip” By James Dean
Pete the Cat and his family are ready to explore all the many wonderful American landmarks on their fun family road trip! They visit many famous sights, including Niagara Falls, New Orleans, Savannah and more. “Welcome to the Party” By Gabrielle Union
Actress Gabrielle Union pens this festive and universal love letter from parents to little ones, perfect for welcoming a baby to the party of life.
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- SPONSORED CONTENT -
C
WHY THE EARLY CHILDHOOD– GRADE 8 MODEL IS BEST FOR EVERY CHILD
hildren need time, space and opportunities to grow. An age 2 to Grade 8 school provides muchneeded stability and continuity throughout students’ childhood. This model fosters independence, responsibility and leadership in students who recognize their role in helping younger students. This environment works best for producing strong learners and ethical leaders alongside teachers who understand children and their development. Every day and every grade matter when
it comes to building young learners. Children who feel that every learning experience has significance are more invested and engaged, and they perform better academically. A recent Harvard study indicates that students who leave elementary schools for separate middle schools lose ground in both reading and math compared to their peers who attend K–8 schools. That’s why Old Trail places intense focus on educating children from the earliest years through Grade 8, without rushing
them to high school. Our teachers see more in every moment – because they know these moments become experiences, these days become years and these years form the foundation for everything to come. Old Trail celebrates childhood and discovery in ways that open children to the full wonder of learning. “We hold the most precious years of their lives here. And we take them incredibly seriously.” said Sarah Johnston, Old Trail Head of School.
Old Trail School is an independent, coeducational day school located in Bath, Ohio, that serves students in early childhood to Grade 8. With closer relationships and deeper learning experiences, Old Trail has inspired the brightest young minds in the region for 100 years. Visit www.oldtrail.org for more information or email admission@oldtrail.org to schedule a personal tour.
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Education CORNER
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he summer slide — when kids lose knowledge during summer break — is a perennial concern for parents and teachers. This year, with 55 million children in the U.S. out of school since March, the academic slowdown related to the COVID-19 pandemic presents new challenges. Preliminary data show students will return to school in fall 2020 with roughly 70 percent of the learning gains in reading they would have achieved in a typical school year, according to a study called “The COVID-19 Slide” by researchers from the Northwest Evaluation Association, a nonprofit educational testing organization. In math, NWEA researchers estimate students will return with less than half of the learning gains they would have in normal conditions. At the same time, many parents and students are burned out. We’re left wondering how to ensure learning continues throughout the summer, while fighting remote learning fatigue. It’s a good question, says Garet Libbey, assistant head of school for Hawken School’s Lyndhurst campus, serving toddlers through eighth graders. She’s also a mom of a rising third grader and sixth grader. First and foremost, she says, “Parents need to give themselves permission to take a break, and give their kids permission to take a break.” While the academic slide is important to consider, so is the slide in social-emotional learning (SEL), Libbey says. SEL affects children’s ability to make good decisions and foster positive relationships, among other things. “If we don’t create space for everyone in our family to express and explore how they’re feeling, they’re not going to be able to access the traditional academic learning we might be concerned about them getting this summer,” she says. As the governor begins to lift COVID-19-related restrictions, families also may want to consider allowing their children to see friends and loved ones to alleviate stress. “With your best judgement and guidance of your pediatrician, maybe there are opportunities to connect with neighbors in the yard or take a socially distant walk or bike ride with a friend,” Libbey says. “That also gets at the social-emotional connection. Parents will be surprised about emotional relief we’ll see when it starts to happen, given how little they’ve been able to see other kids.” Taking a break doesn’t mean summer has to be a free-for-all, Libbey says. In fact, many children do better with structure, so maintaining a daily routine is a good first step. “It’s going to look different for every kid and family,” she says. “It doesn’t have to be getting up and getting dressed for morning meeting. It might be getting up and going on a bike ride, or getting up and making their own breakfast. Kids can still practice being in a routine.” For families who’d like to foster their children’s learning throughout the summer in a low-stress way, Libbey points to the following ideas and resources.
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Combating the
COVID-19 Slide
ONE EDUCATOR SHARES ONLINE AND OFFLINE SUMMER LEARNING IDEAS By Marisa Palmieri Shugrue READING
Online: Take advantage of summer reading programs Kids won’t be getting stamps on their reading logs from librarians this year, but summer reading programs are still available. Check out your local library system’s website for a modified online summer reading challenge or enroll your kids in Scholastic’s Summer Read-a-Palooza, which allows them to track their reading streaks through an app and unlock book donations for those in need from United Way Worldwide. Offline: Sign up for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Enroll your children (ages 0-5) at ImaginationLibrary.com to receive a free book mailed to them every month. This book gifting program was launched by the country music legend in 1995 and now sends more than 1 million books to children around the world each month. MATH
Online: Try Khan Academy This free, nonprofit website offers weekly math learning plans for third grade through Algebra 2 to help students stay on track or brush up on their skills.
Offline: Discover real-world applications Ask your child’s teacher for some paperand-pencil practice sheets to use over the summer. Or consider showing your kids real-world math applications, such as planting a garden (measuring) or baking (fractions). STEM
Online: Consider Great Lakes Science Center Great Lakes Science Center offers free virtual
field trip videos on its website to bring its exhibits into people’s homes. The center’s summer day camps are also available as an at-home, remote option this summer for those not comfortable sending their children to camp in-person. Campers will pick up or have materials shipped to their homes before their session begins.
Offline: Build with loose parts Begin collecting loose parts – aka metal washers, paper towel rolls, twist ties and the like – and challenge your kids to create something functional or artistic with the materials during a designated quiet time. The same concept can be applied to Legos and other building toys. WRITING
Online: Get feedback from camps and apps Virtual summer camps are one place to turn to for writing help. Check out high schools, colleges, nonprofits and private companies for writing-related camp options. Choosing an educator-led camp will ensure students get the adaptive support they need to improve this vital skill. Families also may want to look into apps like Storybird or No Red Ink to help their students build their writing abilities over the summer. Offline: Do everyday writing and journaling Depending on the age of the child, opportunities range from writing chalk messages, writing notes to grandparents they haven’t seen in a while, journaling with simple prompts such as “three things I loved doing today” or making a written case for something they are eager to do (such as get a new pet) and have them present it to the family.
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d n a S , Sun andScience! By Kristen Antosh, Momgineering the Future
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t’s summer — that time of year when home sandboxes are opened and sand castles begin springing up on beaches. (I bet you read “summer” in Olaf ’s voice if your kids have watched “Frozen” as much as mine this winter.) Beyond the pure fun of playing in the sand, did you realize that something as simple as grains of sand could ignite STEAM curiosity in your little scientist? Check out these fun activities you and your child can do with sand.
What do sand and snowflakes have in common? Did you know that just like snowflakes, each grain of sand is completely unique? Using a microscope (cell phone option will do) or simple magnifying glass, check out the “rainbow of colors,” shapes and sizes in just a small sample of sand, according to Natalie Rosinsky from “Dirt: The Scoop on Soil.” Make it into a game for your young detective by finding a certain color or shape to encourage engagement and learning. Mix it up with different types of sand to stoke your little geologist’s curiosity further.
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How does sand even form? Help your child learn about the sand they saw up close started as a mountain high above the clouds or a coral deep under the sea. A simple and fun experiment to investigate one of these processes starts with a few pieces of small rocks or gravel in a small closed container that they can shake, rattle and roll! A little water might also help the process along as well. After some time, use your magnifying glass to compare the sand your little geologist created in their container by hitting rocks together with the sand in their sandbox. Now compare it to the rock it started out as.
How does sand get to the beach? The simple answer is water or wind carries it there. Try pouring water directly over your sand castle and ask your children to observe what happens. Just as rocks and sediment on mountains erode, crumble and roll into rivers and streams, the same can be observed with this activity. Next try blowing on dry sand and let your little meteorologist explore how it shifts in the wind.
What keeps my sand castle upright? Let your little architect experiment with what happens when they add different amounts of water to buckets of sand during castle construction. Too much water and the sand becomes a soupy texture; too little and the sand doesn’t stick together. Get it right and water “bridges” glue the sand grains together using surface tension. Experiment with identifying the right mix to achieve desired definition and structural support.
Why does solid sand flow like a fluid? Grains of sand slip and slide past one another in a phenomenon known as granular flow, just like salt or sugar. Give your little physicist different size funnels and watch them explore how sand flows through each size funnel differently. Which lets the sand flow faster or slower? Which funnel holds more sand? What if the sand is wet?
FUN SCIENCE FACTS: Did you know…
Exploring kinetic sand Stuck inside? No problem; grab the kinetic sand or make your own as a bonus learning opportunity for your little polymer scientist. Kinetic sand is great because it never dries out and it is easy to use. This is all thanks to a polymer added to the sand that gives it unique properties, according to the article “How Does Kinetic Sand Work” on LiveScience.com by Sara Miller. Allow your child to physically explore the differences in texture and feel between kinetic sand and other sand. Investigate online as a team what makes kinetic sand act differently than regular sand. Have fun making interesting creations!
Use sand to grow math skills Let your little mathematicians practice numbers by counting each scoop of sand as they dump it into their buckets. Scoop sand into different containers using different size spoons. How do the numbers change? Let your children explore concepts such as what it means to be empty, full, heavy, light, more than, less than or equal. For older children, scoop sand into measuring cups and weigh the sand to explore mass and weight relationships.
Most sand is formed from rocks that break down from weathering. This is known as erosion. The eroded rock then travels down rivers and streams until it reaches its final destination. Some sand can be traced back to ancient glaciers. The famous black sands in Hawaii are made from volcanic rock. Scientists have traced some sand on the beaches of Florida to the Sahara desert in Africa. Parrot Fish create tons of sand on Earth each year. These fish use their
beak-like teeth to scrape and bite dead coral. Teeth in their throat break it down into fine sand...and you can guess how it is released back into the ocean. The polymer in kinetic sand gives it “viscoelastic” properties. That means that when you make a mound of sand it holds that shape but eventually it will flow and change shape. Sources: Gary Greenburg, “The Secrets of Sand;” Ellen Prager, “Sand;” Ellen Lawrence, “Is Sand a Rock?” and “One Strange Rock” on Disney+.
Recommended Books on sand: • “The Sun, the Wind and the Rain” by Lisa Westberg Peters • “Sand” by Ellen J. Prager
• “The Sandcastle that Lola Built” by Megan Maynor
• “Sand Castle” by Brenda Shannon Yee • “Is Sand a Rock?” By Ellen Lawrence • “Super Sand Castle Saturday” by Stuart J. Murphy
• “The Secrets of Sand” by Gary Greenberg
Sand as your canvas Let your little linguist practice drawing numbers, letters, words or pictures in the sand with you. This can strengthen motor skills and word or number recognition. You can also play a game of Pictionary by using sand! Bonus lesson, use wind or waves to “erase” your work.
Make a work of art Allow your children’s creativity to run wild as they fill any clear container with their favorite colors of sand. Not only will it grow their imagination, but these works of art are also beautiful to display and your child will take great pride in their work.
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BusinessBUZZ
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ORGANIZATIONS HELPING THE COMMUNITY
The Bair Foundation
The Bair Foundation is a Christ-centered, nationally accredited child welfare, adoption and foster care agency. Since 1967, Bair has provided safe, stable and loving homes to foster youth and helped restore families in crisis. As a recognized leader in the field of human services, Bair is committed to promoting well-being, encouraging community support while focusing on positive outcomes for children & families. 800-543-7058, bair.org
Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board
Summit DD is the resource that makes meaningful connections for more than 5,000 children, teens and adults with developmental disabilities. Whether it’s in your workplace, your family or your neighborhood, find out how Summit DD is making meaningful connections for those it serves…”one person at a time.” 330-634-8000, summitdd.org
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ummer S
Family Living Living at at Its Its Best Best 18 | Family
r Baby Get set for a new season with an infant By Jessica Dill
With the warm weather approaching and the long winter behind us, we can all now socially distance in the safety of our own yards. This goes for babies, too — whom we can provide a little fresh air and sunshine. If you’re a new parent and experiencing your first summer with your baby, here are some ways to gearup and safely celebrate the season. Summer Gear What’s the first thing that pops into your mind in summer? Pools, of course. Not only are backyard baby pools relaxing, but they’re also a good way to prevent your baby from overheating. Plus, they are great for bonding. You can hold your baby while splashing around in the pool. If you’re thinking about buying a baby pool, keep these factors in mind.
Jessica Dill is a broadcast journalist turned blogger. The award-winning TV news anchor and reporter is taking a quick break from television to be home with her husband, Michael, and their new baby, Vivian. She writes about everything, including family, food, travel, fashion, motherhood, and of course — Baby Vivian. She uses her blog to spread love and cheer with a little humor sprinkled in. Jessica grew up on the west side of Cleveland while her husband grew up on the east side, so the pair loves to spend time all over Northeast Ohio. jessicalynndill.com
June /July /July 2020 2020 -- NortheastOhioParent.com NortheastOhioParent.com June
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First, the material of the pool: Do you want the ease of a plastic pool or the comfort of an inflatable pool? The second thing to consider is durability. Make sure the pool is shallow enough and strong enough to support your baby. Third is sun protection. Many baby pools now have built-in awnings so your baby can enjoy his or her rubber duckies in the water without being directly in the sun. Emma McCoy of West Park has two children, Finnegan, 3, and 5-month-old Claire. “We are like fish,” McCoy says. “Any time it’s warm we find some type of water to be in.” McCoy says it seems as though her family buys a slightly bigger inflatable pool every year. “This summer we will probably buy another pool for our toddler, but for babies, I highly recommend getting a baby pool that has a little shaded top to it,” McCoy says. “We have an inflatable one with a little palm tree to keep them out of the sun.” Also, a big trend this year is buying a baby float with a canopy. No matter how big the pool, your baby can stay protected from the sun with a covered baby float. Remember to supervise children at all times, whether they are spending time in a floatation device or in a swimming pool. If your baby is going to be in the pool, make sure you’re prepared with reusable swim diapers. This trend has really taken off for two reasons. They’re reusable, so parents can simply throw them in the washer, and they help with pool rules. Many public pools require babies to wear at least two layers in the water. Some parents even go with three layers. First a diaper, then the reusable swim diaper, then the swimsuit. When it’s time to get out of the water, it’s important to still keep babies protected. Summer tents are a perfect way to do that. McCoy says she uses a playpen with a tent for her daughter, Claire. “We have one that folds, so we take it everywhere,” McCoy says. “It’s perfect to take down to the beach.” This year, anti-UV pop-up sun shelters, such as the Babymoov Tent, are popular. It has a UV shield and a mosquito net to keep the bugs out. For many parents, making sure your baby doesn’t miss a nap is extremely important. Products such as The Slumberpod are portable blackout tents. Whether you’re traveling or out at a pool, quickly pop them up to give your little one that much-needed power nap.
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Sun Safety Now let’s talk safety. As new parents, we worry about everything. Am I buying the right products? Is my baby happy? Most importantly, is my baby healthy and safe? While the summer brings a lot of fun, it also brings more worry. “Being a mom has taught me so much in life already,” says Kristy Gulcin of Cleveland whose daughter, Everly, is 4 months old. “Everly changes every day, and I love watching her grow.” The Gulcin family just bought a boat and Everly’s grandparents have a pool, so they are excited to take her swimming for the first time. But, just like many moms, Gulcin has concerns. She says her biggest concern is making sure Everly doesn’t get sunburned. Dr. Joan Tamburro, a pediatric dermatologist at Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital, says there are many ways to protect your baby. First and foremost is ensuring you stay inside when the sun is strongest.
“It’s best not to go outside between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.,” Tamburro says. “Try to do morning hours or late afternoon hours.” Tamburro says any baby 6 months and younger should not be exposed to the sun. For older babies, she recommends applying sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to exposed skin. There are also many safety products you can buy for your baby. One trend is buying Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) baby clothing. “This is very specific sun protective clothing,” Tamburro says. “It is woven in a way that it doesn’t make the child hot, but it is also protective against the sun.” There is a wide-range of UPF baby clothing — from swimsuits to shirts and pants. Also, Tamburro says hats and sunglasses are a must. “The younger we start putting hats and sunglasses on our kids, the better,” Tamburro says. “It’s similar to fruits and veggies. Start them young and get them understanding that this is just what we do.” Gulcin says she already has summer baby clothes picked out, and she purchased a summer hat with UPF 50+ sun protection. Don’t forget their cute little feet. You can even buy UV Protection socks and shoes for your baby. As for bug spray, the current American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation is to use a product with 10 percent to 30 percent DEET for babies 2 months and older. Baby Tech This summer, there are some must-have free phone apps and websites for new parents who want to stay connected. UV APPS
Make sure you have an ultraviolet (UV) radiation App downloaded on your phone. Even when it’s not sunny out, the UV levels can still cause sunburn. For example, the UV Index Widget - Worldwide app checks the current radiation level and lets you know when the UV Index will be the highest that day.
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The younger we start putting hats and sunglasses on our kids, the better.
It’s similar to fruits and veggies. Start them young and get them understanding that this is just what we do.”
SCHEDULE-TRACKING APPS
What does a baby love to do? Sleep and eat. Parents know how important maintaining a daily schedule is, but how do you do that when you’re buzzing all around in the summer? How do you keep a routine when you’re on summer vacation? Phone apps like the Sprout Baby or Huckleberry help parents track their baby’s schedule. The apps suggest times for you to feed your baby and predict good napping times. Quickly mark what time your baby woke up, and the app will remind you when it’s time to put them back down to sleep. Spend more time having fun and less time trying to remember when you last fed your baby. Parenting Groups Remember, we are all in this together. Online parenting groups help remind new parents they’re not alone. Social media platforms like Facebook are covered in mom and dad groups. Have a question about what baby pool you should purchase? Write it in a Facebook group and wait for dozens of recommendations. Another group, “What to Expect When You’re Expecting,” is an online community. You will be matched with moms across the world who have a baby the same age as your baby. It’s a great place to congregate with parents going through the same baby stage you are in. Whether it’s to ask questions, share baby photos or trade funny sleep deprivation stories, you’ll always have someone to talk with, even at 2 a.m. on that hot summer morning.
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fresh Ideas for Your 2020 Staycation By Dahlia Fisher
Whatever you do to make memories with meaning this summer, do it safely with social distancing in mind. We’d love to hear how you spent your time, if you tried one of these staycation tips or came up with one of your own. Tell us about your experience and tag us @neohioparent!
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ummer is upon us, yet our vacation plans are disappearing like letting go of a helium balloon. No matter how desperate we are to grasp hold, our dreams of dipping freshly polished toes into salty ocean waves are vanishing with the reality of living through a global pandemic. Parents everywhere are asking, “What if the hotel we booked is closed? How can we know if the beach is open or closed? Will we feel safe flying to our destination?” With so much uncertainty, many families are staying put and calling 2020 the year of the summer staycation. Melissa Lynch of Orange was planning a family trip to New York City when the onset of COVID-19 changed everything. “We were going to New York to celebrate the birth of my best friend’s baby,” she says, adding she was nervous about venturing into a known virus hotspot, so she decided to cancel. “There are so many memories people aren’t able to make this year (and) huge milestones that we aren’t able to experience the way we want.” But Lynch, a mom of two, decided that COVID-19 wasn’t going to stop her from still having a good summer. “Everything we do is going to be recorded in a scrapbook,” Lynch says. “(We will be)
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making memories in a different way.” What will go into a scrapbook when there are limited activities to explore? Lynch gave us a few of her fresh and fun ideas, plus we dug up a couple more on our own. Check out these five ways to make the best of your summer staycation right here in Northeast Ohio. Count all Six CLE Script signs Nothing beats being a tourist in your own city, so this might be our favorite activity of all (thanks for the tip, Melissa) According to Destination Cleveland, they created the first three CLE script signs during the 2016 Republican National Convention, now there are six around the city. Look for where these signs on their website thisiscleveland.com And since these signs are considered a must-do for out-oftowners, there couldn’t be a more perfect way to celebrate staying in-town this summer. Scrapbook moment: Hit all six of the script signs and snap a photo at each location. You can find them at North Coast Harbor, Edgewater Park, The Foundry, Abby Avenue, Euclid Beach Park and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. Now that’s an easy way to have fun without leaving your hometown! Learn more at thisiscleveland.com
Sleep under the stars Who needs a campsite to go camping? Buy or borrow a tent to pitch in your backyard, dust off sleeping bags from your closet and grab a flashlight to tell (not so scary) ghost stories. Your kids will thank you! According to KOA. com, stress reduction is the No. 1 reason to get out of your routine and become one with nature, “When you’re camping, there’s no place to be at a certain time, and there’s nothing interrupting you or competing for your attention.” So, turn off that cell phone while roasting marshmallows in the fire pit to give yourself and your family a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Scrapbook moment: Sneak out your phone to capture a few pics of the family huddled around the campfire and curled up in sleeping bags, but don’t keep it out too long or the magic of relaxing under the stars will be lost to the screen’s glowing blue light. Whip up a cooking class Everyone in your family has to eat, so why not turn meal time into a regularly scheduled activity? Cooking with your kids helps develop
language and math skills, plus it teaches the importance of making healthy meals at home. But what your kids will remember about cooking together is more than just food. According to HealthyLittleFoodies.com, “A kitchen is a great place for parents to spend quality time with their children. It can be a place to talk about family traditions, through passed down family recipes, or it can simply be a place just to catch up with day to day life.” Scrapbook moment: Don’t take pics of your kids alone. Be in the photo with them stirring a bowl, licking a spoon or sampling the goodies, so they’ll remember the time you spent together when looking back on the memories. Hit the streets in search of street art You don’t need a museum to see art in Cleveland. ClevelandTraveler.com provides a map to help you locate the best murals in the city. Probably one of the most iconic is “Greetings from Cleveland” at 2104 W. 25th
St. (at the corner of W. 25th St. and Chatham) which is “part of NYC graffiti artist Victor Ving’s series of vintage postcard-style murals that are installed in cities all across the U.S.,” says ClevelandTraveler.com. There is a list of 26 larger-than-life art displays organized by neighborhood. Take a day, take a week or take all summer to explore Cleveland neighborhoods and the art that makes them unique. Scrapbook moment: You’ll be dwarfed in front of these public art giants, but do your best to soak up the grand nature of the mural as well as the environment of the neighborhood itself. Sit on a picnic bench, eat an ice cream cone or twirl around a light pole to make the most of your photo opp while you tour the city with an eye toward art. Make the most of our parks Parents who love to hike the regional parks don’t always have kids who share their passion. But never fear, we’ve got a solution for enticing little ones to explore what the
outdoors has to offer. Do you know about geocaching? We went to Geocaching.com for the 101, which explained, “Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. Participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache (container) hidden at that location.” Apparently, there are millions of geocaches hidden around the world, and there are more than a few in Cleveland. Go on a scavenger hunt like no other this summer by logging on to the website to find out where geocaches are hiding in your neighborhood or the Metroparks. Scrapbook moment: Document your hunt from start to finish with poses ranging from serious to silly as you search for treasure in its hiding spot. When you make the scrapbook, draw a trail that shows you traveling from point A to X. Dahlia Fisher is a writer, artist, motivational speaker and workshop leader. You can follow her on her blog (dahliafisher.com) to learn more about her year facing new challenges to practice living with more presence and purpose in 2020.
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PHOTO BY KIM STAHNKE
TAKE IT
OUTSIDE How backyard games keep the whole family healthy and connected
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By Amy Brown ,
hile backyard games were once a summer mainstay for neighborhood kids and their families, cell phones, smart devices and gaming systems provide some stiff competition for attention these days. Not to mention, hectic schedules, planned down to the minute, rarely
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leave room for carefree backyard play. Whether it’s a casual game of tag or something more strategic or team-oriented, look no further than the backyard for opportunities to get active, bond with your children and create lifelong memories. It’s time to power down the devices and get outside.
PLAY FOR THE HEALTH OF IT It’s no secret that physical activity benefits the entire family. Running, playing catch, kicking a soccer ball, shooting hoops in the driveway — anything that gets the blood flowing — works against the development of health challenges often found with kids who stay stationary. “There’s definitely a correlation with less physical activity and higher weight, which tend to lead to more health problems,” says Dr. William Mudd, pediatrician at Cleveland Clinic Children’s in Medina. “We’re seeing a lot more high blood pressure in children and Type 2 diabetes in teenagers that we used to only see in adults.” Thankfully, when parents lead the charge or set an expectation for a shared outdoor physical activity, kids are more likely to hop on board. When mom and dad show their fun side through games, play and physical activity, it’s natural for kids to want to mirror those positive behaviors. “With the age of screens and video games, any activities we can use to get kids motivated to go outside and be physically active is fantastic,” Mudd says. “And kids respond well to parental involvement.” SEE MOM RUN Children are innate copycats. When kids see their parents being playful and demonstrating appropriate play, they will eventually repeat
those actions in their own independent settings. “When families are together and being their best selves, they’re modeling fairness, they’re modeling good sportsmanship, all those positive prosocial things,” says Bob Gralnick, manager of children, youth and teen programs at the Mandel Jewish Community Center in Beachwood. Gralnick, who oversees school-age programs at the center, knows many kids do get opportunities to model respectful behavior through organized programs and structured sports. However, kids who can see their parents practicing these behaviors and working together as a team go a long way. “The fact that (interactions) are happening with the family and happening organically makes it very powerful,” Gralnick says. “It’s a great way to teach and demonstrate boundaries and (how to play) by the rules in a safe, positive location.” Backyard games allow for a variety of teachable moments and opportunities for parents to set a positive example. Mudd says demonstrating healthy ways to deal with embarrassment if we make a mistake, frustration when we miss a shot or anger if we lose encourages patience and resiliency. “Being able to take the child aside and tell them it’s okay that they’re feeling this way, model for them how to take deep breaths, or any other ways we cope with these feelings — there are many opportunities for connection on how to deal with harder emotions,” he says.
MAKE TIME FOR PLAY TIME Although organic interactions are incredibly beneficial, sometimes shared family downtime doesn’t exist on its own. Many families cruise through days and nights on a jam-packed schedule to meet work, school and extracurricular activity commitments. Gralnick suggests families try to be just as intentional with outdoor play time and even reserve a slot on the calendar if necessary. “It can be uncomfortable, but in order to get comfortable with it, (families) may have to go through a bit of an awkward time,” Gralnick says. “But, if families practice it more, it will happen more on its own.” While it’s impossible to add more hours to the day, take a closer look at when and how often the family has quality time together. In the midst of endless busyness — for parents and kids — 20 or 30 minutes to get outside and play a game may end up being the family’s highpoint of the day. The physical, mental, and emotional benefits of playing outside easily beat another hour of screen time. Plus, fresh air and warmer weather help families destress, unwind and, most of all, connect. “One of the most important benefits is strengthening connections and the relationships with your children, and this is just one other avenue to do that,” Mudd says.
BACKYARD GAMES: HOUSE RULES
Be ready for nostalgia with some of these backyard classics and read up on rules for some newer games on the scene. Feel free to put your own spin on the rules if you play a little differently, as long as everyone agrees on them before the game begins. Freeze Tag: One person is “It” and tries to run and chase other players. If the person who is “It” tags or touches another player, that player is “frozen” and must remain still until another player touches them to “unfreeze” them so they are allowed to run again. Take turns being “It” to keep it fair.
Hide and Seek: The “seeker” closes his or her eyes and counts to 20, 40 or 100 while other players hide. When the seeker finishes counting, he or she must try to find the players in their hiding spots before they make it back to “base,” an agreed-upon spot where hiders are safe from becoming the seeker.
Capture the Flag: Two teams each have a flag or other object located at the team’s “base.” The goal is to capture the opposing team’s flag and bring it safely back to your team’s base. Opposing players can be tagged and be out of the game, become members of the opposite team or frozen in place until freed by a member of their own team, depending on the agreed upon rules.
Red Light, Green Light: One person is the “Stoplight” and calls out “red light!” and “green light!” commands to other players. “Green light” means players are free to run from one end of the yard to the other, but “red light” means they must stop in their tracks. If a player moves after the Stoplight yells “red light,” they are out of the game. The first person to make it to the opposite end of the yard wins.
Cornhole or Bags: Two Cornhole boards are set up about 30 feet apart. For a 2-player game, opponents alternate throwing four bags from one board toward the other, attempting to land the bags into the board’s hole. Bags that land in the hole are worth 3 points, and bags that land on the board are worth 1 point. The first player to score 21 points wins.
Ladder Golf: Two game ladders are set up about 15 feet apart. For a 2-player game, Player 1 tosses three “bolas,” or nylon ropes with golf balls attached to either end, attempting to land the bolas on one of three rungs on the game ladder. Player 2 follows. The top rung is worth 3 points, the middle rung is worth 2 points, and the bottom rung is worth 1 point. The first player to score 21 points on the dot wins.
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Ways to Celebrate Dad
Father’s Day is a great opportunity to spend family time together while honoring dad. Whether your usual activities are canceled or you’re just looking for new ideas, check out these 50 ways to celebrate dad. Most can be enjoyed in your home or backyard; others can be done while following social distancing guidelines. BY DENISE KOETH
1. Have a picnic in the park. 2. Go for a hike. 3. Serve him breakfast in bed. 4. Play catch or Frisbee. 5. Take a family bike ride. 6. Set up a mini golf course in the yard. 7. Have a water balloon toss (or fight!). 8. Hold a family video game tournament. 9. Create a special Father’s Day playlist (below). 10. Build a yard game (try corn hole or Jenga). 11. Have a Nerf gun battle. 12. Set up a hammock and let dad relax. 13. Have someone else mow the lawn. 14. Try out geocaching. 15. Have a cookout lunch. 16. Tour national parks on Google Earth. 17. Take a trip down memory lane by looking through old photo albums. 18. Play dad’s favorite board games. 19. Order a surprise gift he’ll love. 20. Have a dance party set to dad’s favorite music. 21. Complete an item on his “honey do” list yourself — or hire someone to do it. 22. Go fishing. 23. Have a family movie night and let dad pick. 24. Create a scavenger hunt for dad to do with the kids. 25. Go for a drive. 26. Make a DIY dessert, like a sundae bar. 27. Fly a kite. 28. Go bird-watching. 29. Roast marshmallows and hot dogs over the fire pit. 30. Plan a day at a Lake Erie beach. 31. Make a family scrapbook. 32. Camp out in the backyard. 33. Set up an at-home beer tasting with his favorite brews.
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34. Have a Lego building competition. 35. Gift him a virtual class (cooking, fitness, etc.). 36. Break out the dress-up clothes and have a silly costume contest. 37. Play a round of disc golf at a local course. 38. Put together an epic puzzle as a family. 39. Order his favorite takeout for dinner. 40. Binge watch a family favorite TV show. 41. Hold a family lip sync or karaoke competition. 42. Build a fort. 43. Stream a classic sporting event from the past. 44. Listen to a family-oriented podcast. 45. Brainstorm your next family vacation. 46. Head away from the city lights and go stargazing. 47. Take a virtual museum tour. 48. Gift him a golf game with his buddies. 49. Have a joke-telling contest. 50. Play a family game of his favorite sport.
Tunes for Dad :
Need help with your playlist? Start with this song list from our editors:
FATHER & SON Cat Stevens FATHER & DAUGHTER Paul Simon WE ARE FAMILY Sister Sledge SONG FOR MY FATHER Sarah McLachlan DANCE WITH MY FATHER Luther Vandross OLD MAN Neil Young MY FATHER’S EYES Eric Clapton BUTTERFLY KISSES Bob Carlisle SONG FOR DAD Keith Urban JUST THE TWO OF US Will Smith
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Move About With Ease
LAKEFRONT LIVING Front Porch Community
THE FLOWER BLOSSOMS PROGRAM PHOTO BY LAKEWOODALIVE
DISCOVER LAKEWOOD
Embrace the City’s Arts, Culture, Learning and Vibrant Community June /July 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com
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Shared by the Rohrs Family
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By Ginny McCabe
ince first moving to Lakewood in 1999, the Rohrs family has fallen in love with Lakewood over and over again. After relocating to the New York City area for a few years for a job, the family chose to come back to Lakewood, because Lakewood is home. A few of the things the family loves the most about Lakewood are the Lakewood City Schools, the arts, the parks and the small-town “Mayberry” feel. “My husband and I bought our first home in Lakewood when we were expecting our first child, Declan,” says Jenny Barnett Rohrs whose son is now 19 and a graduate of Lakewood High School. They also have a daughter, Bailey, 15, who is a freshman at the high school. “At the time, we were living in Ohio City, and we knew we wanted to come to Lakewood because we had heard that they had a great school system.” The Rohrs kids went to school in Lakewood until 2016, when Jeff Rohrs had a job opportunity that took them to New York City. So, for two and a half years, they lived in New York City and nearby New Jersey. When they had the chance to come back, it was in the middle of Declan’s senior year. “We threw a Hail Mary pass, found a house, and got him re-enrolled in school,” she says. “It was during Christmas break, and we came back so he could start in January of 2019 to finish his senior year with all of his friends that he had started school with, some of them since pre-K, when he was 3 years old.” For the Rohrs family, Lakewood
checks all the boxes of what they want in a community. “A beautiful park, a beautiful community that is very accepting, truly diverse, a great school system and it is a walkable neighborhood to boot,” Rohrs says, adding the family has hosted two foreign exchange students in the community and both were able to walk home after school. “Nothing held a candle to Lakewood City Schools. The size of the school gives our children the opportunity to take diverse, interesting classes, and it has an amazing mix of kids, regarding race and religion and socioeconomic status. We were blown away. Leaving our little Lakewood bubble gave us a perspective of how amazing this school system is, and we could not wait to come home.” The city is also known for the unique house designs and front porches. “Two houses ago, we had what would be considered a traditional Lakewood front porch with a front porch swing, and you could see all of your neighbors,” Rohrs says. “We have moved into houses closer to the lake. All of those things — the Lakewood front porches and the interesting architecture, those are the things that really appealed to us when we were new homebuyers and when we had small children. As our interests and needs have changed, and our circumstances have changed, we have been able to find a house and a place in Lakewood, consistently…Truthfully, I hope to grow old here. I hope I never have to leave Lakewood.” The Rohrs family is also musical - CONTINUED ON PAGE 30 -
PHOTOS TOP TO BOTTOM: THE ROHRS FAMILY ON THEIR FRONT PORCH. BAILEY AT THE LITTLE FREE LIBRARY IN TOWN, JENNY AND JEFF ROHRS WITH EXCHANGE STUDENT DAO SINGMANAS FROM THAILAND WHO LIVED WITH THEM FOR A YEAR, DECLAN IN 2015, HIS FRESHMAN YEAR IN THE BAND.
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PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY JENNY BARNETT ROHRS
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“We usually have a subscription to Playhouse Square, and we enjoy Beck Center for the Arts in Lakewood and Cleveland art museum,” Rohrs says. They also love being a part of the community events as well as having access to parks. Living so SUNSET AT LAKEWOOD PARK. close to Lake Erie, the PHOTO SUBMITTED BY JENNY BARNETT ROHRS family loves backyard birding and recently took up the hobby of - CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28 beekeeping. When dining out, the family go-to spots include Deagan’s Kitchen & Bar and artistically minded, and they have taken and Aladdin’s Eatery. advantage of Lakewood’s culture and commu“We love Lakewood Park,” Rohrs says. nity spaces. “There is also an entrance to Cleveland Both children were in Lakewood High School’s marching band, and the family typically Metroparks right here in Lakewood at Rocky River, so we feel like we have a secret attended “Sounds of the Season,” a performing arts program at Lakewood High School. back door into the park.”
“This community is so tight-knit, and its ability to do (community events like) ‘Meet the Trucks’ and ‘Taste of Lakewood,’ have been great,” she adds. “Having those kinds of things makes you feel like you fit in from day one. Lakewood really is a magical place. You get all of the best (things that give it a) small-town, homey feel. We’re a little further out now, we’re on Edgewater versus being one street off of Detroit, but it’s easy to find your way around to places, and one of things that’s so great about having such a densely populated city is that there are little pockets of neighborhoods everywhere. So, if you want to find a little place to hole up for a cup of coffee, there are many places throughout the city of Lakewood where you can find a park, a coffee shop, a nice little place to hang out. Of course, now, we’re very restricted with COVID-19 and distancing, but it’s never stopped people from getting out and having a jog, taking a bike ride, having a walk, so we’re really lucky.”
LAKEWOOD COMMUNITY RESOURCES Play, Eat, Learn & Health
HOUSING OUTREACH PROGRAM
Here are some other resources in Lakewood to know. City of Lakewood To learn more about Lakewood, visit onelakewood.com or visit Facebook.com/CityofLakewoodOhio for updates and information.
Lakewood Alive This community-centered nonprofit organization provides housing outreach and development initiatives, helping to foster and sustain the community. It also holds a variety of public events throughout the year. Visit lakewoodalive.org. Education Lakewood Family YMCA, YMCA of Greater Cleveland Lakewood Family YMCA has a critical care child care center, which provides child care services for children preschool through age 12. Please check with the website regarding in-person program offerings and how to participate or join: clevelandymca.org/lakewood. Also, visit their ideas for virtual activities at clevelandymca.org/familyactivities.
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAKEWOODALIVE
Lakewood Family Room The Lakewood Family Room for Lakewood residents provides early education support for parents, programs and resources. It’s a great way to help parents get connected to one another and the wide range of community offerings for young children — from child care, preschool, support groups, family activities and safety information. Visit onelakewood.com/ early-childhood/ or visit Facebook.com/ LakewoodFamilyRoom for updates. GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland GiGi’s Playhouse provides free therapeutic, educational and career training programs for adults and children with Down syndrome. While the COVID-19 pandemic has temporarily halted in-person offerings, the center has virtual opportunities. Visit gigisplayhouse.org/cleveland.
Parks Abound The COVID-19 pandemic has canceled many recreational programs, but it has not eliminated the opportunity to socially distance in the outdoors. Don’t miss Lakewood Park, which offers wonderful views of Lake Erie and downtown Cleveland, or Lakewood Dog Park and Madison Park. Look for the custom bike racks at Madison Park. Visit onelakewood.com. Cleveland Metroparks are not far away, including Edgewater Park in the Lakefront Reservation. Visit clevelandmetroparks.com for updates about visiting guidelines. Culture and Arts & History The city of Lakewood is known for its various art and murals and historic downtown. To learn more about the city’s history, visit Lakewood Historical Society at lakewoodhistory. org. Check out places like Lakewood Art Studios (lakewoodartstudios.com), which is providing at-home learning art opportunities.
MOBILE LAKEWOOD
THE CITY’S FILLED WITH WAYS TO GET PEOPLE MOVING — AND NOT JUST BY GETTING INTO A CAR. BICYCLING SEASON IN LAKEWOOD
By Matt Bixenstine
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elcome to Lakewood. You are now free to move about the city. This lakeside community enjoys a variety of distinctions — including being the most densely populated city in Ohio. Few cities compare with Lakewood when it comes to offering mobility advantages for residents and visitors alike. Sea of Sidewalks Visit Lakewood and you’ll immediately notice that virtually every city street has a corresponding sidewalk on both sides. More than 180 miles of sidewalks flank the streets of this inner-ring suburb of Cleveland, and Walk Score ranks Lakewood as Ohio’s most walkable city. It’s a city made for walking, and that’s just what many Lakewoodites do. In fact, some have even made it a personal challenge to traverse every piece of sidewalk. Take Lakewood resident Zachary Acerra, for example. He posted on his Twitter account about his journey with his son to run with a stroller on every street in the city, according to Cleveland.com.
Lakewood: Bike It and Like It Regarded as one of the region’s most bicycle-friendly cities, Lakewood boasts a significant population of both transportation and recreational bicycle riders. The city has installed dozens of bike racks and added miles of bicycle lanes along Madison Avenue, Franklin Boulevard and Warren Road, with additional improvements to its biking infrastructure coming soon. Biking represents an ideal method for visiting the numerous independent small businesses lining the Detroit and Madison Avenue commercial corridors, or for venturing to the Solstice Steps at Lakewood Park. Resident-led advocacy group Bike Lakewood, along with local bicycle shops Beat Cycles and Spin Bike Shop, offer many ways to get involved in the local bicycling community. Matt Bixenstine is the marketing & development manager for LakewoodAlive. He resides in Lakewood near Madison Park with his wife, Alyse; son, Charlie; and basset hound, Huckleberry.
Register for the Virtual Meltdown 5K and Start Exploring!
Looking for an excuse to explore Lakewood’s wide variety of appealing neighborhoods? You’re in luck. Registration is now open for the inaugural Virtual Meltdown 5K and 1 Mile Family Fun Run & Walk. The Virtual Meltdown 5K serves as a fundraiser for LakewoodAlive, a community-centered nonprofit organization striving to foster and sustain vibrant neighborhoods. Lace up your running shoes and complete the race at your convenience any time between July 15 and July 31. Participants can opt to conquer the actual Meltdown 5K course, or complete the race in another fashion of their choosing. Visit lakewoodalive.org for more details and registration.
No School Buses? No Problem. As a historic streetcar suburb, Lakewood was designed before automobile use was commonplace. The city features a compact network of schools spread across its 5.5 square miles, and — unlike the vast majority of schools nationwide — the Lakewood City Schools don’t rely on a bus system for daily transportation. Instead, most students live within a mile or two of their schools and can reach their classrooms by walking, bicycling or catching a ride. Thanks to its status as a walking-distance district, Lakewood enjoys advantages ranging from cost-savings to healthier students to a unique brand identity. PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAKEWOODALIVE
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Education, Arts and More! LAKEWOOD PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES FOR BOTH ADULTS AND CHILDREN TO LEARN, ATTEND ARTS AND CULTURAL PROGRAMS
By Angela Gartner
he city of Lakewood is a unique place known for its culture and education. Families who live in the city can take advantage of the public schools, independent schools and a college that reside in the city. Visitors can enjoy the many cultural attractions, including the library and Beck Center for the Arts, which offers arts education programs and activities. Many of those in-person activities will be reopening to the public soon, but for now, families can find opportunities through virtual programs. THE HISTORIC LAKEWOOD LIBRARY, which was
first opened in 1916, located at 15425 Detroit Ave., has curbside appeal. The columns and steps in front of the library have housed many events, such as the annual LakewoodAlive Front Porch Concert Series. The library also has dedicated spaces to public art. Inside, the library boasts a unique color palette that was selected by architect Robert A.M. Stern. While the in-person activities and events are not currently taking place — which under normal times consisted of literary events, youth arts and science programming and innovative ways to introduce authors and more — the library has virtual storytime learning resources. Also, the summer reading program is in full swing. Check for updates on the library and the reopening at lakewoodpubliclibrary.org. BECK CENTER FOR ARTS plays an integral role in
the Lakewood community. “Dreams have come true through the magic of the arts; children and adults feel a sense of accomplishment through works created and inspiration through performances experienced; shy students believe in themselves and flourish,” Cindy Einhouse, President and CEO says.
YMAR DAR’S CHILDREN HAVE A MUSIC LESSON THROUGH BECK@HOME VIRTUAL LEARNING WITH DR. WOOLEY. PHOTO COURTESY OF BECK CENTER
While the art center is still not open due to the state’s health guidelines, it is offering virtual programs for students and is currently planning for the fall session. “It will be a dynamic fall at Beck Center with in-person classes taking place, while we continue to provide our “Beck@Home” (virtual) programming for those looking for an alternate online arts experience,” says Ed Gallagher, director of education at Beck Center. “On campus classes and lessons will be available in all art forms while providing best practices for arts education and individual safety throughout our studios.” Learn more at beckcenter.org. DID YOU KNOW THERE’S A COLLEGE IN
LAKEWOOD? Students have many opportunities
to attend college around Northeast Ohio. For students who live in Lakewood or nearby, there is a college campus in town — with programs that fit the city’s cultural vibe. The North Coast College (formerly known as Virginia Marti College of Art & Design) offers accredited associate and bachelor’s degrees in interior design, graphic design, art and design management, fashion design, fashion marketing, fashion merchandising, graphic design and in-
HISTORIC LAKEWOOD LIBRARY FRONT PORCH CONCERT SERIES.
PHOTO COURTESY BY JUDIE VEGH
terior design. It is scheduled for spring of 2021 to also offers two culinary degree programs: associate of applied science in baking and pastry arts or culinary arts. President Dr. Milan Milasinovic, says the school’s relationship with the city is a supportive one. “We were born and raised in Lakewood,” he says about the history of the college. “We support our community and providing education to local residents.” In fact, the college is now offering scholarships for all Lakewood residents that could decrease tuition cost in half. The school appeals to students looking for a hands-on approach to learning in small classes with big studio spaces to be creative, while keeping social distancing. The school is also walkable for students who live in Lakewood. “We are not a school of abstract,” Milasinovic says. “We teach our students to apply, innovation and manage. The idea application is making something useful and something people can use. I think the biggest advantages is the faculty had significant careers before they decided to teach. We are educating for 21st century jobs, using the digital economy.” Learn more at thencc.edu
LAKEWOOD CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT FACTS & FUN — Submitted by Lakewood City Schools
Horticulture, Race and Diversity, Theater Arts — these are just a sampling of the nearly 200 courses available at Lakewood High School, where the rich variety of opportunities set it apart from other area high schools. The school also boasts more than 50 extracurricular groups. Music is a great example of the depth of options available to a Lakewood
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High student. The school’s five orchestras, three concert bands and five choirs as course options are one of the reasons that Lakewood Schools has earned the National Association of Music Merchants’ Best Communities for Music Education designation four years in a row. The opportunity-rich environment trickles down to the middle
school and elementary level as well. The pre-engineering program, Project Lead the Way, will be part of the curriculum at the two middle schools, expanding on current STEM courses, and makerspaces were added this past year at all seven elementary schools. PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAKEWOOD SCHOOLS
M CO
S
BUSINESS
T UNI Y FO CU
FOCUS ON
M
L a k e wood
The North Coast College
Our name may have changed, but our home in Lakewood hasn’t. We’ve proudly called Lakewood our home since 1966, providing art and design education for generations. Our programs include Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, Fashion Marketing, Interior Design, and Graphic Design. Please contact us for details about our scholarship opportunities. TheNCC.edu
YMCA of Greater Cleveland
The YMCA of Greater Cleveland isn’t a gym, we are a cause. In addition to our fitness facilities and wellness programs, we are providing treatment for the addicted, transitional housing for the homeless, connections for isolated seniors and so much more. Don’t join a gym. Join a cause. clevelandymca.org/joinacause
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Keep Your Family
Safe
Experts provide safety tips for an at-home summer By Akron Children’s Hospital
L
iving through the coronavirus pandemic has altered life in ways both mundane and profound. Will we always think twice about touching the handle of a grocery cart and hesitate to kiss our grandparents? Only time will tell how much it has impacted American society, but chances are, most families will be cautious about hopping on airplanes and taking long car rides to the beach this summer. After weeks of stay-home orders from Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine to stop the spread of the virus and “flatten the curve,” many families have found new appreciation for the comforts of home and their local park systems. For many, fresh air and exercise were the best antidote to the frightening news they were seeing and hearing. “I would expect a lot of families to be doing staycations this summer, perhaps as a result of public health recommendations, lingering fears of the virus and the economic impact on an unprecedented number of Americans,” says Dr. Katrina Lindsay, a pediatric psychologist at Akron Children’s Hospital. “One positive to come from the pandemic is the way families made the best of the situation and embraced the simpler things in life,” she says. “Weeks at home — without the typical rushing around — led to a rediscovery of reading books, playing board games, baking and exploring creative pursuits. Children are resilient, and the backyard can be as much fun as the beach or an amusement park. Depending on advice from the Ohio Department of Health, summer fun with kids may still need to be
limited to family within the same household and may still need to follow social distancing guidelines. “The home and backyard became a haven for families,” says Heather Trnka, injury prevention coalition supervisor for Akron Children’s Hospital, “and I would imagine that this summer the deck, the patio and the yard will also be seeing a lot of family living.” Trnka says her injury prevention colleagues have discussed concern for a possible increase in children drowning in backyard pools as the weather warms up. “The thought is that many parents may still be in the work-from-home mindset, hopping on conference calls, checking email — and may not notice that a toddler has entered the pool,” she says. “The dangers that come from children being in and around cars is another concern — climbing into hot cars in the driveway unnoticed or being too small to be seen by the adult backing out. These tragedies happen every summer, but this summer, because of the extraordinary nature of what the country has been through, we are especially concerned because parents have a lot on their minds and patterns of daily life may still be disrupted.” There are some summer safety messages that never change: • Stay hydrated — water is the best choice. • Don’t forget your sunscreen; reapply it every few hours and after getting wet. • Have bug repellent on hand, but use caution when applying to children. It should contain 10 to 30 percent DEET. Do not use it on babies 2 months and younger • Wash hands often for at least 20 seconds.
For the latest COVID-19 news, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov. For more information on Akron Children’s Hospital, visit akronchildrens.org.
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Fun Guide Listings
â–ź
Find your family’s next adventure; whether your seasonal plans take you outside or in, we have places to go.
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Fun Guide Due to the evolving situation of the COVID-19 pandemic and state health guidelines, some locations are still reopening. Check with all locations before visits regarding hours, as some may be limited, guidance on health or other opportunities such as virtual programs. U.S. and state health officials recommend social distancing (staying six feet apart from others), wearing face coverings and washing hands for 20 seconds.
Museums AKRON ART MUSEUM 1 S. High St., Akron 330-376-9185, akronartmuseum.org
FAIRPORT HARBOR MARINE MUSEUM 129 Second St., Fairport Harbor 440-354-4825, fairportharborlighthouse.org
AKRON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 216 S. Main St. 330-396-6103, akronkids.org
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S AIR & SPACE MUSEUM 1501 N. Marginal Road, Cleveland 216-623-1111, iwasm.org
THE BONFOEY GALLERY 1710 Euclid Ave., Cleveland 216-621-0178, bonfoey.com
KENT STATE UNIVERSITY MUSEUM Corner of E. Main and S. Lincoln streets, Kent, 330-672-3450, kent.edu/museum
CANTON CLASSIC CAR MUSEUM 123 6th St. SW, Canton 330-455-3603, cantonclassiccar.org
LEARNING CENTER AND MONEY MUSEUM (FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF CLEVELAND) 1455 E. 6th St., Cleveland 216-579-3188, clevelandfed.org/en/learningcenter.aspx
CANTON MUSEUM OF ART 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton 330-453-7666, cantonart.org CASTLE NOEL 260 S. Court St., Medina 330-721-6635, castlenoel.com CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF CLEVELAND 3813 Euclid Ave., Cleveland 216-791-7114, cmcleveland.org CLEVELAND HISTORY CENTER 10825 East Blvd., Cleveland 216-721-5722, wrhs.org CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland 216-421-7350, clevelandart.org CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY 1 Wade Oval Drive, Cleveland 216-231-4600, cmnh.org
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MALTZ MUSEUM OF JEWISH HERITAGE 2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood 216-593-0575, maltzmuseum.org MAPS AIR MUSEUM 2260 International Parkway, N. Canton 330-896-6332, mapsairmuseum.org MCKINLEY PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton 330-455-7043, mckinleymuseum.org THE MEDINA TOY & TRAIN MUSEUM 7 Public Square, Medina 330-764-4455, ormandys.com/museum.htm THE MERRY-GO-ROUND MUSEUM 301 Jackson St., Sandusky 419-626-6111, merrygoroundmuseum.org MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART CLEVELAND 11400 Euclid Ave., Cleveland 216-421-8671, mocacleveland.org
NORTHERN OHIO RAILWAY MUSEUM 5515 Buffham Road, Seville 330-769-5501, trainweb.org/norm PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME 2121 George Halas Drive NW, Canton 330-456-8207, profootballhof.com THE ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM 1100 Rock and Roll Blvd., Cleveland 216-781-7625, rockhall.com TRANSFORMER STATION 1460 W. 29th St., Cleveland 216-938-5429, transformerstation.org
Historical Sites & Tours CENTURY VILLAGE MUSEUM 14653 E. Park St., Burton 440-834-1492, centuryvillagemuseum.org A CHRISTMAS STORY HOUSE 3159 W. 11th St., Cleveland 216-298-4919, achristmasstoryhouse.com CUYAHOGA VALLEY SCENIC RAILROAD Office: 1630 W. Mill St., Peninsula 800-468-4070, cvsr.com DUNHAM TAVERN MUSEUM 6709 Euclid Ave., Cleveland 216-431-1060, dunhamtavern.org GOODTIME III EXCURSION SHIP 825 E. 9th St. Pier, North Coast Harbor, Cleveland 216-861-5110, goodtimeiii.com GRAYS ARMORY MUSEUM 1234 Bolivar Road, Cleveland 216-621-5938, graysarmory.com
HALE FARM & VILLAGE 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath 330-666-3711, halefarm.org
Nature & Science Centers
OHIO BIRD SANCTUARY 3774 Orweiler Road, Mansfield 419-884-4295, ohiobirdsanctuary.com
HASTINGS DAIRY 13181 Claridon Troy Road, Burton 440-635-0313, hastingsdairy.com
AKRON FOSSILS AND SCIENCE CENTER 2080 S. Cleveland-Massillon Road, Copley 330-665-3466, akronfossils.com
ROCKY RIVER NATURE CENTER 24000 Valley Parkway, N. Olmsted 440-734-6660, clevelandmetroparks.com
HISTORIC ZOAR VILLAGE 198 Main St., Zoar 330-874-3011, historiczoarvillage.com
BRECKSVILLE NATURE CENTER 9000 Chippewa Creek Drive, Brecksville 440-526-1012, clevelandmetroparks.com
SUSAN HAMBLEY NATURE CENTER 1473 Parschen Blvd., Brunswick 330-722-9364, medinacountyparks.com
HOOVER HISTORICAL CENTER 1875 E. Maple St., N. Canton 330-490-7435, walsh.edu/hoover-historical-center.html
CANALWAY CENTER 4524 E. 49th St., Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1000, clevelandmetroparks.com
THE WILDERNESS CENTER 9877 Alabama Ave. S.W., Wilmot 330-359-5235, wildernesscenter.org
COSI (CENTER OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY) 333 W. Broad St., Columbus 614-228-2674, cosi.org
WOLF CREEK ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center 330-722-9364, medinacountyparks.com
JAMES A. GARFIELD NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE 8095 Mentor Ave., Mentor 440-255-8722, nps.gov/jaga LAKE ERIE CANOPY TOURS 4888 N. Broadway (State Route 534), Geneva-on-the-Lake 866-601-1973, lakeeriecanopytours.com MAPLESIDE FARMS 294 Pearl Road, Brunswick 330-225-5577, mapleside.com ROSCOE VILLAGE 600 N. Whitewoman St., Coshocton 740-622-7644, roscoevillage.com SAUDER VILLAGE 22611 SR 2, Archbold 800-590-9755, saudervillage.org ST. HELENA III CANAL BOAT RIDES Canal Fulton Canalway Center 125 Tuscarawas St., Canal Fulton 330-854-6835, cityofcanalfulton-oh.gov STAN HYWET HALL & GARDENS 714 N. Portage Path, Akron 330-836-5533, stanhywet.org THE STEAMSHIP MATHER 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland 216-694-2000, glsc.org TREE FROG CANOPY TOURS 21899 Wally Road, Glenmont 740-599-2662, treefrogcanopytours.com WILDWOOD CULTURAL CENTER 7645 Little Mountain Road, Mentor 440-974-5735, cityofmentor.com
CROWN POINT ECOLOGY CENTER 3220 Ira Road, Bath 330-668-8992, crownpointecology.org F.A. SEIBERLING NATURE REALM 1828 Smith Road, Akron 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org GARFIELD PARK NATURE CENTER 11350 Broadway Ave., Garfield Heights 216-341-3152, clevelandmetroparks.com GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland 216-694-2000, greatscience.org THE HOLDEN ARBORETUM 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland 440-946-4400, holdenarb.org LAKE ERIE NATURE AND SCIENCE CENTER 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village 440-871-2900, lensc.org
Zoos, Aquariums & Farm Parks AFRICAN SAFARI WILDLIFE PARK 267 S. Lightner Road, Port Clinton 419-732-3606, africansafariwildlifepark.com AKRON ZOO 505 Euclid Ave., Akron 330-375-2550, akronzoo.org CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland 216-661-6500, clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo DERTHICK’S FARM 5182 SR 82, Mantua 330-569-8302, derthickscornmaze.com
THE NATURE CENTER AT SHAKER LAKES 2600 S. Park Blvd., Cleveland 216-321-5935, shakerlakes.org
GREATER CLEVELAND AQUARIUM 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland 216-862-8803, greaterclevelandaquarium.com
NORTH CHAGRIN NATURE CENTER 3037 SOM Center Road, off Buttermilk Falls Parkway, Willoughby Hills 440-473-3370, clevelandmetroparks.com
THE FARM AT WALNUT CREEK 4147 County Road 114, Sugarcreek 330-893-4200, thefarmatwalnutcreek.com
OH WOW CHILDREN’S CENTER FOR SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 11 W. Federal St., Youngstown 330-744-5914, ohwowkids.org
LAKE METROPARKS FARMPARK 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland 440-256-2122, lakemetroparks.com NICKAJACK FARMS 2955 Manchester Ave., N. Lawrence 330-323-9714, nickajackfarms.com
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Fun Guide LAKE METROPARKS 11211 Spear Road, Concord Township 440-358-7275, lakemetroparks.com
WAGON TRAILS ANIMAL PARK 907 Youngstown Kingsville Road SE (State Rt. 193), Vienna 330-539-4494, wagontrails.com
CLEVELAND CULTURAL GARDENS IN ROCKEFELLER PARK 750 E. 88th St., Cleveland culturalgardens.org
Amusement Parks
CLEVELAND BOTANICAL GARDEN 11030 East Blvd., Cleveland 216-721-1600, cbgarden.org
LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS 12882 Diagonal Road, LaGrange 800-LCM-PARK, loraincountymetroparks.com
CLEVELAND METROPARKS 4101 Fulton Pkwy., Cleveland 216-635-3200, clevelandmetroparks.com
MEDINA COUNTY PARK DISTRICT 6364 Deerview Lane 330-722-9364, medinacountyparks.com
CUYAHOGA VALLEY NATIONAL PARK 15610 Vaughn Road, Brecksville 330-657-2752, nps.gov/cuva
OHIO & ERIE CANALWAY Cuyahoga County: 6801 Brecksville Road, Ste. 185, Independence 216-520-1825
CEDAR POINT 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky 419-627-2350, cedarpoint.com
Parks, Gardens & Trails BEECH CREEK GARDENS 11929 Beech St. NE, Alliance 330-829-7050, beechcreekgardens.org CANTON GARDEN CENTER 1615 Stadium Park Drive NW, Canton 330-455-6172, cantongardencenter.com
GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT 9160 Robinson Road, Chardon 440-286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org HOLDEN ARBORETUM 9550 Sperry Road, Kirtland 440-946-4400, holdenarb.org
Summit, Stark & Tuscarawas counties: 47 W. Exchange St., Akron 330-374-5657 ohioanderiecanalway.com OHIO DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, DIVISION OF STATE PARKS & WATERCRAFT Operates 74 state parks throughout Ohio 866-OHIOPARKS, parks.ohiodnr.gov PORTAGE PARK DISTRICT 705 Oakwood St., Ste. 4, Ravenna 330-297-7728, portageparkdistrict.org PRESTON’S H.O.P.E. PLAYGROUND PARK 26001 S. Woodland Road, Beachwood prestonshope.com SECREST ARBORETUM & GARDENS 2122 Williams Road, Wooster 330-464-2148, secrest.osu.edu STAN HYWET HALL & GARDENS 714 N. Portage Path, Akron 330-836-5533, stanhywet.org STARK PARKS 5300 Tyner St. NW, Canton 330-477-3552, starkparks.com SUMMIT COUNTY METRO PARKS 975 Treaty Line Road, Akron 330-867-5511, summitmetroparks.org
Sporting Events AKRON RUBBERDUCKS Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron 330-253-5151, akronrubberducks.com CLEVELAND INDIANS Progressive Field, 2401 Ontario St., Cleveland, 216-420-4487, indians.com
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LAKE COUNTY CAPTAINS Classic Park, 35300 Vine St., Eastlake, 440-975-8085, captainsbaseball.com LAKE ERIE CRUSHERS Sprenger Stadium, 2009 Baseball Blvd., Avon 440-934-3636, lakeeriecrushers.com
Skate Parks Indoor/ Outdoor BRUNSWICK SKATESTATION 1261 Industrial Parkway N., Brunswick, 330-225-9842, skatestation.net CHAGRIN VALLEY ROLLER RINK 7151 S. Main St., Chagrin Falls 440-247-4224, skate.cvrr.com CITY SKATE CENTER 63 W. Walnut Ave., Painesville 440-352-2002, cityskatecenter.com LAKEWOOD SKATE PARK 14532 Lake Ave., Lakewood onelakewood.com LORAIN SKATE WORLD 4952 W. Erie Ave., Lorain 440-282-2567, lorainskateworld.com MEDINA SKATELAND 3789 Pearl Road, Medina 330-723-5859, medinaskateland.com MENTOR SKATELAND ROLLER RINK 5615 Andrews Road, Mentor-on-the-Lake 440-257-3631, mentorskateland.com NORTH CANTON SKATE CENTER 5475 Whipple Ave. NW, N. Canton 330-499-7170, northcantonskatecenter.com ROLL ARENA 908 Cleveland St., Elyria 440-366-6581, rollarena.biz ROLLER HUTT 10268 Hewins Road, Garrettsville 330-527-4633, rollerhutt.com TRI-STAR SKATEBOARDS 5360 Brookpark Road, Cleveland 216-459-9000, tristarskateboards.com
THE WINNERS ARE CHOSEN!
Earlier this year, the Northeast Ohio Parent Choice Awards sought to gather the opinions of local parents on everything family-friendly in the region. Look for our announcements of the winners and finalists online in July and in the August print issue. Visit NortheastOhioParent.com for giveaways and other previews!
Choice Awards 2020
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Challenge Island Virtual and In-Person STEAM Camps and Workshops
Fun Guide
Featured Listings Looking for a summer adventure? Don’t miss these family favorites — fun for all ages!
Akron Zoo Get nose-to-nose with hundreds of rare and exotic animals from around the world. Check out the zoo’s many exhibits, including Grizzly Ridge, Pride of Africa and more. The Akron Zoo is sensory-inclusive to accommodate guests with sensory processing needs. 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron, 330-375-2575, akronzoo.org
Beck Center for the Arts Beck Center for the Arts has recently adapted from creating art experiences in-person to online classes, camps and music lessons during the pandemic. Soon, it will resume classes, lessons, dance programs, youth theater, professional theater, creative arts therapies and art exhibitions on its Lakewood campus. Watch for updates on its social media channels and website. 17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-521-2540, beckcenter.org
Canton Palace Theatre Put your message up on the Canton Palace Theatre marquee. Celebrate a loved one, congratulate a graduate, make an announcement, or share your custom notice on downtown Canton’s historic marquee. Send your message of up to 45 characters on two lines, for $50/day. Dates are available on a first come basis. 605 Market Ave. N., Canton, 330-454-8171, cantonpalacetheatre.org
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Challenge Island is a high-energy, STEAM-based enrichment program where kids embark on a wide variety of fantastical themed journeys. They tackle exciting challenges using only the materials in their treasure chests and their boundless imaginations. It’s where engineering meets imagination! Visit challenge-island.com/summit-medina or challenge-island.com/clevelandeast
Fairmount Center for the Arts Fairmount’s All Access Summer of Arts provides free online classes in all the arts for all ages. Additionally, Fairmount’s Camp Kits provide camp fun via art kits and interactive online sessions. Finally, Fairmount’s ArtsyoU programs offer online private music instruction and other one-on-one customized arts experiences. Register online. 8400 Fairmount Road, Novelty, 440-338-3171, fairmountcenter.org
Greater Cleveland Aquarium Did you know poison dart frogs are toxic because of their diet? That red-bellied piranha can bark? Or that shark teeth are naturally coated with cavity-preventing fluoride? Nature. It’s a curious thing. See these and other amazing animals up close at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium. 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, 216-862-8803, greaterclevelandaquarium.com
Great Lakes Science Center Great Lakes Science Center reopens June 19 with the special exhibition, Body Worlds Rx. This is a limited engagement with special hours. Tickets must be purchased online and will include a general admission ticket to use after the rest of the museum reopens July 1. Visit the website for more information. 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216-694-2000, greatscience.com
The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake Give yourself something to look forward to with a summer escape at The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake. The Ohio Wine Country resort delivers quality dining and the R&R you’re looking for. Through its comprehensive new Rest Assured program, the lodge is working hard to maintain an environment that helps keep guests safe. From wine tours to boat rentals to lakeside cottages, the summer getaway you need is here. 4888 N. Broadway, Geneva-on-the-Lake, 866-554-0015, thelodgeatgeneva.com
Lorain County Metro Parks With Lorain County Metro Parks, you never have to hear “There’s nothing to do.” Take the family on the paddleboats at Wellington Reservation. Visit the beach at Lakeview Park. Explore the children’s discovery trail at Carlisle. With the Lorain County Metro Parks, nature is always nearby. 440-458-5121, loraincountymetroparks.com
Stan Hywet Hall Akron’s Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is a great place for family fun. Now open for the 2020 season, all tours are self-guided with social distancing reminders so that every visit is safe and enjoyable. Spend a day exploring the gardens and touring the Manor House. 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-836-5533, stanhywet.org
Sauder Village Make the past part of your future with a trip to Sauder Village, a fun place to slow down, unplug and spend quality time with family. Visit animals in the farmyard, marvel at working craftsmen and hear stories shared by costumed guides as you take a walk through time from 1803 through the turn of the century. Explore the new 1920s Main Street and make history of your very own at Sauder Village, Ohio’s largest living history destination. 22611 OH-2, Archbold, 800-5909755, saudervillage.org
Subscribe to Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine’s Weekly Newsletters! Visit NortheastOhioParent.com/Subscribe
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Fun Guide UNITED SKATES OF AMERICA Wickliffe: 440-944-5301 Cleveland: 216-420-8821 unitedskates.com
Beaches EDGEWATER BEACH Lakefront Reservation, Cleveland 216-635-3200, clevelandmetroparks.com FAIRPORT HARBOR LAKEFRONT PARK BEACH 301 Huntington Beach Drive, Fairport Harbor fairportharbor.org GENEVA STATE PARK BEACH 4499 Padanarum Road, Geneva 440-466-8400, parks.ohiodnr.gov/geneva HEADLANDS BEACH STATE PARK 9601 Headlands Road, Mentor 440-466-8400, parks.ohiodnr.gov/headlandsbeach
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HUNTINGTON BEACH Lake Road, Bay Village 216-635-3200, clevelandmetroparks.com LAKE ERIE SHORES & ISLANDS 216 E. Water St., Sandusky 419-625-2984, shoresandislands.com OHIO DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, DIVISION OF STATE PARKS & WATERCRAFT Operates 74 state parks throughout Ohio 866-OHIOPARKS, parks.ohiodnr.gov
Canoeing, Camping & Fishing BEST COAST WATER SPORTS 5404-A Lake Road E., Geneva 440-466-0333, bestcoastwatersports.com BREAKAWAY EXCURSIONS 4690 E. Prospect St., Mantua 440-773-2465, breakawayexcursions.com
CAMP HI CANOE LIVERY 12274 Abbott Road, Hiram 330-569-7621, camphicanoe.com CANAL FULTON CANOE LIVERY 219 W. Cherry St., Canal Fulton 330-854-4008, cfcanoe.com COUNTRYSIDE CAMPGROUND 2687 State Route 43, Mogadore 330-628-1212, countrysidecampgrounds.com CROOKED RIVER ADVENTURES 13468 Main Market Road, Burton 440-834-1778, crookedriveradventures.com 41 DEGREES NORTH COASTAL KAYAK ADVENTURES 1500 Scenic Park Drive, Lakewood 866-529-2541, kayak41north.com GRAND RIVER CANOE LIVERY 3825 Fobes Road, Rock Creek 440-813-0413, grandrivercanoe.com
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Fun Guide GREAT LAKES KAYAKING 14th Street and Broadway, Lorain 440-396-5887, visitloraincounty.com/directory/ great-lakes-kayaking GREAT LAKES WATERSPORTS 1148 Main Ave., Cleveland 216-771-4386, glwatersports.com HINCKLEY LAKE BOATHOUSE & STORE 1 West Drive, Hinckley 330-278-2160, clevelandmetroparks.com JELLYSTONE PARK 12712 Hoover Ave. NW, Uniontown 330-877-9800, akroncantonjellystone.com/camping KAYAK THE BAY 760 Bayview Ave., Put-in-Bay 419-967-0796, kayakthebay.net
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LAKE METROPARKS FISHING Various locations 440-358-7275, lakemetroparks.com NORTH COAST OUTPOST 4499 Padanarum Road, Geneva 440-251-8048, thenorthcoastoutpost.com OHIO DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, DIVISION OF STATE PARKS & WATERCRAFT Operates 74 state parks throughout Ohio 866-OHIOPARKS, parks.ohiodnr.gov PINE LAKES CAMPGROUND 3001 Hague Road, Orwell 440-437-6218, pinelakescampground.net RIVER CRUISER KAYAKING Various locations in Cleveland 440-539-6611, rivercruiserkayaking.com
ROUNDUP LAKE CAMPGROUND 3392 State Route 82, Mantua 330-562-9100, rounduplakecampground.com SILVER CREEK BOATHOUSE 5171 S. Medina Line Road, Norton 330-867-5511, summitmetroparks.org TIMBER RIDGE CAMPGROUND 51900 Portman Road, Amherst 440-965-4113, timberridgecamping.com TRAILHEAD CANOE LIVERY 135 Lake Ave. NW, Massillon 800-226-6349, erniesbikeshop.com/ trailhead-canoe-livery WALBORN RESERVOIR MARINA 11324 Price St. NE, Alliance 330-935-0367, starkparks.com/shops/ walborn-marina
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Fun Guide WEST RIVER PADDLING CO. 655 W. River Road, Vermilion 440-967-5292, westriverkayak.com
MAGICAL THEATRE COMPANY 565 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton, 330-848-3708, magicaltheatre.org
WILLOW LAKE CAMPGROUND 3935 N. Broadway, Geneva 440-466-0150, willowlakecamping.com
THE MUSIC SETTLEMENT 11125 Magnolia Drive, Cleveland 216-421-5806, themusicsettlement.org
Drive-In Theaters AUT-O-RAMA TWIN DRIVE-IN THEATRE 33395 Lorain Road, North Ridgeville 440-327-9595, autoramadrivein.com
SCHOOL OF ROCK Highland Hts.: 440-684-7625 Rocky River: 440-333-7625 Strongsville: 440-572-7655 schoolofrock.com
BLUE SKY DRIVE-IN THEATER 959 Broad St., Wadsworth 330-334-1809, blueskydrive-in.com
YMCA OF GREATER CLEVELAND Various locations clevelandymca.org
MAGIC CITY DRIVE-IN THEATER 5602 S. Cleveland-Massillon Road, Barberton 330-825-4333, magiccitydrive-in.com MAYFIELD ROAD DRIVE-IN THEATER 12100 SR 322, Chardon 440-286-7173, funflick.com/mayfield MIDWAY TWIN DRIVE-IN THEATER SR 59, ½-mile east of Kent 330-296-9829, funflick.com/midway
Lessons & Learning BECK CENTER FOR THE ARTS 17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood 216-521-2540, beckcenter.org FAIRMOUNT CENTER FOR THE ARTS 8400 Fairmount Road, Novelty 440-338-3171, fairmountcenter.org FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION 38660 Mentor Ave., Willoughby 440-951-7500, fineartsassociation.org
46 | Family Living at Its Best
ROYALTON MUSIC CENTER 10167 Royalton Road, N. Royalton 440-237-9400, royaltonmusic.com
Go Karts, Putt-Putt Golf & More ACRES OF FUN 3889 Friendsville Road, Wooster 330-345-4386, acresoffun.com ADVENTURE ZONE 5600 Lake Road E., Geneva-on-the-Lake 440-466-3555, adventurezonefun.com AIRPORT GO-KARTS 16208 Brookpark Road, Cleveland 216-265-0750, airportgokarts.com ALIEN VACATION MINI GOLF 260 S. Court St., Medina 330-721-1224, alienvacationminigolf.com BASEBALL BATTING CAGES AT BRECKSVILLE 7033 Mill Road, Brecksville 440-838-5138, brecksvillebatting.com BOSS PRO KARTING 18301 Brookpark Road, Cleveland 216-938-6335, bossprokarting.com
BUZZARD COVE 1053 Bellus Road, Hinckley 330-278-2384, buzzardcove.com CHIP’S CLUBHOUSE 214 5th Ave., Chardon 440-285-3456, chipsclubhouse.com DOWNVIEW SPORTS CENTER 1621 Bailey Road, Cuyahoga Falls 330-971-8418, cityofcf.com FUN-N-STUFF AMUSEMENT PARK 661 Highland Road E., Macedonia 330-467-0820, fun-n-stuff.com THE GOLF DOME 8198 E. Washington St., Chagrin Falls 440-543-1211, thegolfdome.com HIGH VOLTAGE INDOOR KARTING 333 Foundry St., Medina 330-333-9000, highvoltagekarting.com RINKY DINK FAMILY FUN CENTER 2390 Medina Road, Medina 330-239-1567, rinkydinkminigolf.com SCENE75 CLEVELAND 3688 Center Road, Brunswick 234-803-1100, scene75.com/cleveland SLUGGERS & PUTTERS 333 Lafayette Drive NW, Canal Fulton 330-854-6999, sluggers-putters.com SWEETIES GOLFLAND 6770 Brookpark Road, Cleveland 216-472-1340, sweetiesgolfland.com SWINGS-N-THINGS 8501 Stearns Road, Olmsted Township 440-235-4420, sntfun.com
REOPENING OHIO
Check out our online calendar to stay up-to-date on the latest area happenings and events, including the Northeast Ohio Parent summer events series. We’ll also continue posting virtual events offered by local attractions, so your family can have fun at home.
NortheastOhioParent.com
June /July 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com
| 47
Teen’s Summer Break Routine
Teen TALK
Help your kids find new ways to connect outside their rooms this season. By Angela Gartner
T
he COVID-19 outbreak changed not only parent routines, but also those of tweens and teens. As parents worked from home, kids finished up their school year online. Teens also connected with their friends through social media and gaming apps. Now that school is over — and despite the recent reopenings of businesses in the state — typical summer hotspots will be limited. Parents, who may be still working from home or heading back to work, have to help their tweens and teens transition into this new summer break routine — one that doesn’t include self-isolating in their room. Dr. Ellen Rome, head of the center for adolescent medicine for Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital, says the pandemic has shifted norms for raising kids. Rome says she is hearing that parents are concerned about depression in their teens and how their kids are sleeping all day or spend more of their time (at night) online. “Connectivity online has been a blessing and a curse,” Rome says. “It’s OK for kids- and their parents- to unplug and take a break from social media.” This is especially true in teens, who can often disappear into their rooms for hours. While it’s still important to connect with friends, parents need to create an environment that helps engage their kids in other ways. “It’s a great time to start some healthy patterns,” Rome says. “This is a window of opportunity to force a slowdown. Parents and adolescents forget to attend to the basics (getting enough sleep, eating, turning off social media and setting boundaries).”
Family Living Living at at Its Its Best Best 48 48 || Family
She adds, the family schedule should also incorporate family laughter — laughing together but never at a teen, tween or child. Family meals can also be a time where the family gets together, with laughter and with moments of serious discussion of life events where the parent gets to discover how their child thinks and what they believe in. “You can learn a lot about your kids through simple dinnertable conversation.” “Borrow a toddler, or at least a toddler’s lens. Help your older children and teens also find joy and wonder in each day,” Rome says. Tweens and teens also may have more on their minds. They are more likely to be aware of what’s happening with world events. Also, the school year might have ended with milestones missed and other disappointments. Rome says parents have to open a dialogue with their teens and acknowledge their disappointment in this rapidly changing world. “Use the ‘Ask, Tell, Ask’ approach,” she says. “Ask “how are you managing” and express empathy. Ask for their thoughts on the dilemma of the day. Tell them what you believe in, and ask them for their ideas and opinions. Help the young person to be part of the solution.” This year, more than ever, it’s important to recognize how this summer is different. “ The world is recognizing new public health crises such as COVID-19, but also old public health crises newly recognized, such as systemic racism,” Rome says. “Give youth the opportunity to discuss and think through these issues. At the same time, youth can simultaneously worry about major life issues and whether the local community pool will remain closed all summer, or how to get a job during a pandemic, or how to engage in
virtual summer camp or other available activities. Let them know that you can be sad about milestones or opportunities missed and still be a good global citizen. And ask them for their thoughts on how they can accomplish this for themselves, letting them drive the conversation and generate solutions.” “Discuss with your kid what is their dream summer — what are the constraints and what could be something they want to master this summer?” Rome says. She adds that it’s an opportunity to get creative, for example, by adhering to social distancing with friends by using pool noodles as a measuring stick. Some tweens and teens may need extra help. “My worries are the kids we are not seeing,” Rome says. “It could be hard for parents to recognize depression and anxiety when social isolation is a new norm.” She says parents can look for signs, including irritability, change in appetite, extra sleep or too little sleep, expression of guilt or low self esteem, persistent sadness, insomnia or thoughts of self-harm. These include a child who is talking or writing about sucide, saying they “won’t be a problem for you much longer” or giving away their belongings. In this case, Rome says to call your child’s pediatrician and/or the sucide hotline. “Teach them to ask for help, then ask again, until the child feels he or she is visible, seen and heard,” she says. “Help them spend time with people who care about them.” If you or someone in your family needs help. Reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text the Crisis Text Line by texting ‘TALK’ to 741741.
Northeast Ohio Parent
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Dad
To Whoever Is Listening
By Jason Lea
Jason Lea has a son, daughter and a full-time job at the Mentor Public Library. He also blogs for Northeast Ohio Parent in his nonexistent free time. You can find this East-sider on Twitter at @jasonmarklea or read his blog at northeastohioparent. com/bloggers
50 | Family Living at Its Best
MATTERS
H
ow are you? We’re about four months into (gestures vaguely) whatever this is, and it’s worth doing a sanity check. I’m not a religious person — not in the churchgoing or apologetic sense — but I believe in the value of prayer and meditation. And I’ve been praying more than usual lately, as I suspect many of us have been. Each evening before I fall asleep, I petition whomever might be listening. I pray for my kids. I’m not really worried about their health. I’ve read and re-read all the statistics about children being at less risk than adults to die from COVID-19. But they’ve had to deal with me a lot, and almost all of their friends and cousins have been reduced to faces on screens. I pray they still get to be kids — that they’ll get to have birthday parties and go to the zoo again soon without fear of microbes. And when they look back on these times, I pray they remember the walks in the park and extra snuggles — and not me screaming all the time. I pray for my parents and all the grandparents who haven’t gotten to hug their grandkids in 16 weeks. The video chats and visits through the window can be sweet, but a hundred Zoom calls can’t replace a single hug. I pray for my wife and all our fellow parents. They’re working and parenting and serving as adjunct kindergarten or calculus teachers. It’s like trying to juggle seven chainsaws with one arm already sliced off. I pray for my family. Not just because
they’re my family, but because this is Cleveland so 97 percent of them work in health care. They are doctors, nurses, therapists, paramedics and gerontologists. They work in intensive care units, emergency rooms, operating rooms and on task forces to help those affected and infected. I’m so proud of their selflessness, and I hope they don’t die for it. I pray for my friends who own movie theaters, restaurants and other businesses. They have always been there for the community when my library needed summer reading prizes or a softball team needed a sponsor. I pray the community is now there for them. I pray for my kids’ school and preschool teachers. I know they miss their students and want to see them. I pray for the kids who don’t have iPads or adults who can help them with their schoolwork. I pray for my friend whose child has been in the ICU since she was born and that she can visit her again soon. I pray for my neighbor who has beaten cancer twice. I hope she beats this too. I pray for those of you who have already lost someone. It may seem trite to offer “thoughts and prayers” for those suffering from loss and grief. But, if my prayer is all I can give you, I hope it provides a moment’s solace. I pray for you. I wish you peace, health, safety and security, or as many of them as you can get for this moment. And I ask that you pray for me too.
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