Northeast Ohio Parent | October 2022

October insiDE

STARTING AFTER PAGE 34

PARTY GIFTS

Here are ideas for gift-giving for the kids in your life. Plus, extra party planning listings on pg. 19

Halloween and Fall Fun &Frolic

21

PET-TACULAR HALLOWEEN

Celebrate Halloween this year with your pet with a fun pictorial and more!

Plus, we provide what’s safe and what’s not for your pet during the season.

26

FALL STEAM

Have your kids enjoy the vibes of the season through these learning activities.

ALL THE FALL THINGS AND HALLOWEEN

Seasonal events for everyone in your family around Northeast Ohio.

Plus, extra fall listings starting on pg. 32

ON THE MIDDLE SCHOOL GUIDE COVER: Dwight, 12 of Norton.

MIDDLE SCHOOL GUIDE

What parents need to know about entering middle school, how guidance counselors can help your tween, non-screen after school ideas and more!

Middle school guide listings on pg. 42

ON THE COVER:

Siblings, Alexa, 8, and Kaden,11, of Beachwood with Arnie, 11 year old golden retriever.

nPHOTO BY KIM STAHNKE PHOTOGRAPHY KIMSTAHNKEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

06

EDITOR’S NOTE

Is your family ready for a new pet?

08

WORTH NOTING

Family-friendly movies and shows hitting streaming platforms this month.

10

AGES AND STAGES

Bilingual education and why it’s important to learn a new language.

14

FAMILY HEALTH Colicky Baby? We talk to a pediatrician for some help

53

FAMILY CALENDAR

Find fun things to do this month including storytimes, weekend events and local attractions to visit.

58

#CLEMAMA Spice up your next family get together or outing with a few simple games.

NortheastOhioParent.com

Photo by Memories by Stephanie

Perfect Time for a New Pet?

A new baby is in my household, not a two-legged kind, but a fourlegged one — a puppy. Honestly, I never thought about getting a new pet this year. We were sailing through the months and had no concerns with our oldest dog Reagan (or Sweet Baby Ray) at almost age 3.

Life was perfect, yet, it wasn’t. Something was missing. While it feels like this isn’t an ideal time for a puppy, we just did it, sometimes it’s OK not to wait for the best time.

And, did you know dogs (or pets) are good for your health?

“Just physically, being around animals releases some positive neurotransmitters in the brain,” according to Dr. Jane Manno, psychologist for Cleveland Clinic in a recent article, How Dogs Can Help with Your Mental Health. “Studies have shown serotonin and dopamine, so there’s a biologi cal component. It decreases blood pressure, it decreases the stress hormone cortisol.”

According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA) , 68% of U.S. households owned some sort of pet in 2016.

Many pets also serve a purpose, such as therapy animals and providing support with stress and anxiety.

In fact, most people who own pets, like cats and dogs, consider them to be like their other children and even siblings to their human children.

Pets also have multiple benefits for the whole family. Having an animal is likely to bring more exercise, teaching kids how to take care and love an animal in age-appropriate ways.

It’s understandable that not everyone can own a pet, due to aller gies, interest or space.

The best way to know if you are ready for a pet is to ask yourself some of these questions: Are your children showing an interest? Are they comfortable with animals? Do you feel you have enough time, space? Are you financially ready? If you did get a pet, what would it be, cat, dog, fish or lizard? How much do you know about your new pet? Can your pet be safe around your children? Do your children understand the importance of pet hygiene and hand-washing around animals?

Also, there are plenty of ways to introduce your kids to animals, from friends and families, to libraries in the region who provide “Read to a Dog” programs.

Whatever is decided, your family has to make sure they are ready and safe for the pet.

With Halloween coming, that’s why I wanted to take a moment to recognize these members of the family. Starting on pg. 21, look for some ways to keep them safe this holiday and a few fun costume ideas. Of course, we don’t forget about all things fall as we provide plenty of adventures for the whole family. And a little learning with our fall STEAM activities.

Also, being a parent of a middle schooler, it’s a hard road sometimes. We provide some resources for your tweens — and you on how to handle these years in our Middle School Education Guide. This issue is packed with other topics and tips, from bilingual education, dealing with colicky babies and help for not-so-fresh scents from kids’ feet, too.

While my sons were too old for the Baby Shark craze, I might be singing that song soon with our newest puppy addition, Lyla. So here’s to making the most out of the season!

october 2022

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What stinks?

LEARN WHAT CAUSES FOOT ODOR IN KIDS AND HOW TO FEND IT OFF

By Marisa Palmieri Shugrue

The shoes. The socks. The sports bags. If you are a parent to tweens or teens, you probably know the stinky feet struggle.

Although smelly feet can occur at any age, parents may start to notice it more in middle school when they aren’t personally overseeing their children’s bathing routines and kids begin produc ing more sweat due to puberty.

“There are even young kids in the first couple years of life who can have stinky feet, but until adolescence you really don’t produce as much sweat,” says Dr. Shelly Senders, pediatrician at Senders Pediatrics in South Euclid.

Smelly feet are typically not a concern from a health standpoint, Senders says, but it can be embarrassing for kids—and unbearable for parents. To fend off funky foot odor in your family, learn about what causes it in the first place and how to prevent it in the future.

What Causes It & How to Prevent It

Foot odor is caused by a chemical re action between bacteria and sweat, pro ducing isovaleric acid, Senders explains. It’s made worse by confining footwear, especially shoes and socks made out of synthetic material.

There are three categories of people with smelly feet, he says. Treatment starts

with determining which category your kids fall into.

People who sweat a lot genetically. “When you shake people’s hands, some of them have sweaty palms — and those same people have sweaty feet,” Senders says. “It’s a chemical reaction, so if you have more sweat, you will have more stinky feet.”

For people in this category, Senders recommends products that prevent sweating. While there are intense treat ments available like Botox injections or iontophoresis (an electrical current), the easiest and least invasive one is simply using an antiperspirant on the feet, just like we do for our armpits.

“I recommend a ball; it’s easier to roll on your feet,” he says. Antiperspirant foot lotions are also available, as is a deodor ant cream called Lavalin, which may ap peal to people who prefer aluminum-free products.

People who have more bacteria on their feet. “People in this category may have poor hygiene and don’t wash their feet as much,” Senders says. Treatment options include washing your feet with soap and water daily and doing occa sional foot soaks. Try Epsom salt baths or soaking feet in a mixture of two parts water to one part white vinegar. Wearing clean, dry socks that absorb moisture also helps.

People who have thick skin on their feet. Bacteria hides in dead skin on your feet, Senders says. “Use a pumice stone to exfoliate your feet, and you’ll get rid of the dead skin and naturally get rid of the bacteria,” he says.

What About the Shoes & Bags?

Now that you know some treatment options for preventing offensive foot stench in the first place, you may still need some help extinguishing the odor from already-stinky shoes and gym bags.

As Senders explains, sweat combined with bacteria causes the bad smells, so you need to eliminate both of those fac tors to get rid of the funk.

To get rid of the bacteria, start by giv ing shoes, bags and gear a good wash. Remember to thoroughly dry everything in the sun or a well-ventilated area.

Air out shoes, bags and gear the same way on a daily basis. Another way to eliminate bacteria is with disinfectant products designed for shoes. Be sure the products you choose are not designed only to mask the smell.

To absorb moisture, try a char coal-based pod product, baking soda-based shoe balls or deodorizing inserts. Traditional foot powders are another option.

What’s Streaming This Month

Looking for something family-friendly to watch on a cozy fall night? There are many new releases hitting streaming platforms this month. Whether you’re in the mood for something spooky, nostalgic, light-hearted or action-packed, there’s something for every family mem ber on the list.

Hocus Pocus 2 It’s been 29 years since someone lit the Black Flame Candle and resurrected the 17th-century Sanderson sisters, and they are looking for revenge. Now, it’s up to three high-school students to stop the ravenous witches from wrecking a new kind of havoc on Salem. Rated PG, Disney+

Secret Headquarters — While hanging out after school, Charlie and his friends discover the headquarters of the world’s most powerful superhero hidden beneath his home. When villains attack, they must team up to defend the headquarters and save the world. Rated PG, Para mount Plus

Waffles + Mochi’s Restaurant (Season 2)— The new sea son features familiar faces like Mrs. Obama and world-re nowned chefs, home cooks, kids and celebrities from all over the globe who all share the same passion for food and fun, Rated TV-Y, Netflix

The School for Good and Evil — Based on the book by Soman Chainani, this new fantasy movie sees two best friends battling each other in an enchanted school. Rated Pg-13, Netflix

Andor — The “Andor” series will explore a new perspective from the Star Wars galaxy, focusing on Cassian Andor’s journey to discover the difference he can make. The series brings forward the tale of the burgeoning rebellion against the Empire and how people and planets became involved. Rated TV-14, Disney+

Floor Is Lava — Teams compete to navigate rooms flooded with lava by leaping from chairs, hanging from curtains and swinging from chandeliers. Rated TV-PG, Netflix Pinocchio A live action and CGI retelling of the beloved tale of a wooden puppet who embarks on a thrilling ad venture to become a real boy. Rated PG, Disney+ Are You Afraid of the Dark? Paramount Plus is re-airing this mid 90s spooky anthology series for kids. Young mem bers of the Midnight Society recount ghost stories as they gather around a campfire. Rated TV-PG, Paramount Plus

— Shana O’Malley-Smith

READING ROOM

NOT-SO-SCARY WORKS

A Halloween Party Under the Sea

By K.A. Devlin

Discover together that Halloween is not scary, and can be very fun. Great to read to preschoolers and kids not yet reading. Also beginning readers, as rhyming words are highlighted for identification.

Hocus Pocus: The Illustrated Novelization

By A. W. Jantha and illustrated by Gris Grimly

Fans and readers of all ages can enjoy the full story of Hocus Pocus with Illustrations of Max Dennison, the Sanderson Sisters, Binx the cat, and other iconic characters that retells the story of the film, paired with original artwork throughout from Gris Grimly.

A Halloween Scare in Ohio

By Eric James and illustrated by Marina Le Ray

It’s Halloween night in Ohio, and creatures and critters from Cleveland to Cincinnati are starting to gather outside the front door. Not-too-scary fun for every reader, filled with witches, ghosts, ghouls, and pumpkins galore. Enjoy land marks such as Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Scripps Center, Cedar Point Amusement Park, and more.

MIDDLE SCHOOL READS

Jessi’s Secret Language (The Baby-sitters Club #12)

By Ann M. Martin and illustrated by, Chan Chau

Jessi recently moved to Stoneybrook and is one of the newest members of The Baby-sitters Club. She will be regu larly sitting for the club’s newest charge, Matt Braddock. Matt has been deaf since birth and uses sign language to communicate, so Jessi learns how to use it, too.

The Last Kids on Earth (series) and the Forbidden Fortress

By Max Brallier and illustrated by Douglas Holgate

Picking up after Quint and Dirk’s Hero Quest, the Last Kids are reunited—but quickly faced with a monstrous new mission. Inside an other-dimensional fortress, the evil Thrull, alongside a vile new villain, is carrying out a sinister plan.

Stella

By McCall Hoyle

Stella is retired as a working dog. When a young girl named Cloe wants to adopt Stella, the beagle knows this is her last chance to prove her worth. But how? When Stella smells a strange chemical inside Cloe’s body, a scent that surges just before the girl has a seizure. How can Stella convince others that she can be a new kind of service dog and hopefully save Cloe’s life?

ofLANGUAGE

By Lydia Mockensturm

Language is an important tool of communication. For kids to speak mul tiple languages it brings an understanding that goes beyond the skill.

“The benefits of bilingual education are huge,” says Rebecca Rolland, a speech pathologist, lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the au thor of The Art of Talking with Children. “Kids aren’t just learning a language; they’re getting to know a whole way of life, which expands their understanding and appre ciation for new cultures. Not everybody does things the same way, they learn—and this helps them be more open to those who are different.”

WHAT IS BILINGUAL EDUCATION?

Raised in a multilingual family, Meran Rogers, founder and exec utive director of Global Ambassadors Language Academy (GALA) in Cleveland, understands the importance of bilingual education. Her experience being raised by immigrant parents and the desire to help her own children connect to their heritage were part of her decision to open GALA, a K-8 Spanish and Mandarin language immersion school.

“Bilingual education is providing education in two languages, which means that it’s not just learning that second language as a special or an elective,” Rogers says.

Instead, she says that students in a bilingual program are im mersed in the language for part of every day and across subjects. “If you’re in a Spanish program you’re learning Spanish language arts, but you’re also learning other subjects in Spanish, whether it be math or science or social studies.”

Students at the Global Ambassadors Language Academy (GALA) in Cleveland. PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY MERAN RODGERS/GALA

According to Rogers, the goals of a bilingual education program can vary.

If a bilingual school or program serves a primarily Spanish-speak ing neighborhood, Rogers says that the goal may be to maintain those language skills while working toward English proficiency. “It is ultimately the population that you serve.”

At GALA, students entering their Spanish or Mandarin immer sion programs in kindergarten or first grade are not required to have any prior language skills.

“Our program is additive,” she says. “We’re adding a language that doesn’t already exist for the majority of our children.”

IMPORTANCE OF BILINGUAL EDUCATION

While the primary goal of bilingual education is for students to become fluent in more than one language, there are other cognitive and social-emotional benefits, according to Rolland.

“Bilingual education helps kids be cognitively flexible, or able to shift back and forth from one idea to the next,” Rolland says. “Think of bilingual education like a rubber band, helping kids stretch be yond their usual ways of thinking and question their assumptions.”

According to Ryan Wertz, lead consultant for World Languages, Global Education and the Ohio Seal of Biliteracy with the Ohio De partment of Education, being proficient in another language and cul ture can also be advantageous in terms of college and career readiness.

“Today’s learners are members of a highly connected global society,” he says. “Hundreds of thousands of Ohioans are employed by com panies that are direct foreign investors in our state. Workers who have high levels of proficiency and intercultural skills in the native language of their employer generally have greater mobility within the company and earn more than their mono-lingual coworkers.”

Wertz adds that bilingual workers are needed in many fields. “Building a multilingual workforce is also becoming critically import ant in our state with regard to trade and manufacturing, health care, the judicial system, emergency response, customer care, food service,

construction and education, just to name a few examples,” he says.

STUDY TOOLS

Alongside a language immersion program, Rogers encourages families to make use of apps like Duolingo to practice language skills.

“It’s a really good app,” she says. “Depending on whatever level you’re at, it will adjust.”

Rolland also suggests reinforcing language skills at home through the apps. “For younger children, Gus on the Go is great, since it's interactive and uses games, stories, and videos,” she says.

While these apps can be a fun way to practice at home together, Rogers stresses that you can’t expect proficiency without language im mersion. “It’s all of that social language that really makes a difference,” she says.

Ayana Gray Malinda Lo George M. Johnson Angeline Boulley Jarrett Krosoczka

KIDS AREN'T JUST LEARNING A LANGUAGE; THEY'RE GETTING TO KNOW A WHOLE WAY OF LIFE, WHICH EXPANDS THEIR UNDERSTANDING AND APPRECIATION FOR NEW CULTURES.

October 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com | 11 Register: cpl.org/clereads Join exclusive discussions with best-selling authors of your favorite books! Saturday Oct 22 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Cleveland Public Library | Louis Stokes Wing 525 Superior Avenue, Cleveland Young Adult Book Festival " "

OCTOBER 2022 - FALL OPEN HOUSES

BENEDICTINE

HIGH SCHOOL

2900 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Cleveland 216-421-1100, cbhs.net

Oct. 5: 5 p.m.

Nov. 13: 11 a.m.

CLEVELAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL

12510 Mayfield Road, Cleveland 216-421-0700, clevelandmontessori.org

Nov. 2: 5:30-7 p.m.

GLOBAL AMBASSADORS LANGUAGE ACADEMY (GALA)

13442 Lorain Ave., Cleveland 216-315-7942, gala-prek8.org

Oct. 8, Nov. 12: 10-11:30 a.m.

Oct. 11, Nov. 15: 5-6:30 p.m.

HAWKEN SCHOOL

Lower & Middle Schools 5000 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst 440-423-4446, hawken.edu

Nov. 20: 1 p.m.

Upper School 12465 County Line Road, Gates Mills 440-423-4446, hawken.edu

Nov. 6: 1 p.m.

Birchwood School of Hawken 4400 W. 140th St., Cleveland 216-251-2321, birchwoodschool.org

Oct. 23: 2 p.m.

Mastery School 11025 Magnolia Dr., Cleveland 440-423-4446, hawken.edu

Nov. 13: 1 p.m.

HERSHEY MONTESSORI

Upper SchoolHuntsburg Campus 11530 Madison Road, Huntsburg Twp. 440-636-6290, hershey-montessori.org

Oct. 10, Nov. 14: 9-11 a.m. (Visitors’ Day)

Nov. 16: 7-8 p.m. (Virtual Info Session)

Lower SchoolConcord Campus 10229 Prouty Road, Concord Twp. 440-357-0918, hershey-montessori.org

Oct. 12, Nov. 9: 9-11 a.m. (Open House)

iSTEM 1800 Mentor Ave., Painesville Twp. 440-898-3283, istemghs.org Oct. 22: Noon-2 p.m.

JULIE BILLIART SCHOOLS

Akron 380 Mineola Ave., Akron 330-333-5280, juliebilliartschool.org

Nov. 10: 9 a.m.

Lyndhurst 4982 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst 216-381-1191, juliebilliartschool.org

Oct.13: 9:00 a.m. & Dec. 12: 6 p.m.

Westlake Campus

3600 Crocker Road, Westlake 440-471-4150, juliebilliartschool.org Nov. 8: 6 p.m.

MESSIAH

LUTHERAN SCHOOL 4401 W. 215th St., Fairview Park 440-331-6553, messiahschoolfairview.org Oct. 13: 9-11 a.m. (Preschool-Grade 8)

OUR LADY OF THE ELMS 1375 W. Exchange St., Akron 330-752-2507, theelms.org Oct. 5: 6-8 p.m.

PADUA FRANCISCAN HIGH SCHOOL 6740 State Road, Parma 440-845-2444, paduafranciscan.com Oct 16: 1-4 p.m. Oct. 17: 6-8 p.m.

RUFFING MONTESSORI SCHOOL

3380 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Heights 216-321-7571, ruffingmontessori.net Nov. 12: Noon-2 p.m.

SAINT JOSEPH

ACADEMY

3470 Rocky River Dr., Cleveland 216-251-6788, sja1890.org Oct. 16: 1-4 p.m.

SETON CATHOLIC SCHOOL 6923 Stow Road, Hudson 330-342-4200, setoncatholicschool.org Nov. 13: 2-4 p.m.

ST. SEBASTIAN PARISH SCHOOL Day School (K-8)

500 Mull Avenue, West Akron 330-836-9107, stsebastian.org/school Nov. 18: 8:30-9:30 a.m. (Kindergarten Explorer Day)

TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL 12425 Granger Road, Garfield Hts. 216-581-1644, ths.org Oct. 30: 10 a.m.-Noon

UNIVERSITY SCHOOL Hunting Valley Campus (Grades 9-12)

2785 SOM Center Road, Hunting Valley 216-831-2200, us.edu Oct. 18: 8:30-11 a.m. Nov. 6: 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Shaker Heights Campus (Junior Kindergarten-Grade 8) 20701 Brantley Road, Shaker Heights 216-321-8260, us.edu Nov. 6: 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

VILLA ANGELAST. JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL 18491 Lakeshore Blvd., Cleveland 216-481-8414, vasj.com Oct. 9 & Nov. 3

GETTING TO THE ROOT CAUSES OF YOUR CRYING BABY

COLIC or Something Else?

By Shana O’Malley-Smith

You may have heard some parents describe their infant as a “colicky baby,” a term used to describe a baby who has frequent and pro longed crying spells, with virtually nothing you can do to soothe them.

Many healthy newborns will experience colic, but what exactly is it and why do some babies have it?

Dr. Arthur Lavin, pediatrician at Akron Children’s Hospital Pediatrics says colic is an old medical term used to describe unexplained pain.

“What it means is someone is in pain and we don’t know why,” he says. “For a

long time, people struggled to find out why an infant is in pain. They don’t tell us what’s hurting, so this idea of colic evolved.”

According to the Mayo Clinic, some of the symptoms of colic include, “intense crying that may seem more like screaming or an expression of pain; crying for no apparent reason, unlike crying to express hunger or the need for a diaper change; extreme fussiness even after crying has diminished; predictable timing, with epi sodes often occurring in the evening; facial discoloring, such as skin flushing or blush ing and body tension, such as pulled up

or stiffened legs, stiffened arms, clenched fists, arched back, or tense abdomen.”

Colic typically begins around six weeks of age and is usually resolved by the time a baby is 3- or 4-months- old.

Doctors are still learning about colic but there are a few different theories as to why a baby may be experiencing it. The “new” way of thinking about colic is that it’s more of an indication of something else going on, rather than a diagnosis.

“Where we’re at right now with colic is that the vast majority of babies who are in pain, we find, there are known causes for their pain and we don’t even call it ‘colic’

in those situations anymore,” Lavin explains.

He says in some cases, babies could be experiencing an allergic or irritable reaction to certain food items (cow’s milk being the number one cause), or heartburn/reflux (also called GERD), which gives off a burning feeling in the esophagus from stomach acid.

If a baby is experiencing signs of colic, Dr. Lavin recommends seeing a doctor as soon as possible to rule out any medical issues going on and begin trying different ways to help the baby feel better.

“My number one advice to parents is seek medical advice from someone who can sort it out and help them figure out what’s causing the suffer ing,” Lavin says. “In most cases, we should be able to help the baby feel better pretty quickly.”

He says it’s a good idea for parents to keep track of how long and how often the baby is crying, what time of day and what situation the baby was in when it was happening. For ex ample, was the baby eating, sleeping, sitting up or lying down?

“The first thing I always like to

do is meet with the parents and get a good detail of the pattern of crying, when does the child seem most upset,” he says. “We try to get some clues and if the clues point more toward a food reactivity, if the mother is nursing, we’ll have her go off all dairy or have the child go on a formula that doesn’t have intact milk protein and see if colic ceases. If it’s not pointing towards food, we look at the acid reflux question and acid production.”

IN SOME CASES, COLIC IS STILL A MYSTERY.

“In other cases where the baby is quite irritable and we don’t know why, there is probably a reason that is just as physical and just as real as the reactivity of food and the burning feeling of stomach acid on the esoph agus, we just haven’t figured out what those causes are yet,” Lavin says.

Colic typically goes away within the first few months of a baby’s life and there’s no link to future food allergies, digestion issues or other health problems later in life.

PARTY GIFTS

Disney Villains Labyrinth

The Villains and their Henchmen find themselves trapped in a magical maze. Become Ursula, Maleficent, Scar, or Hades to help escape. $36.99, ages 7+, Found at various retailers.

Train of Thought

A card game that inspires connections and conversations. Set includes 110 Thoughtful Question Cards, 20 Wild Cards, 20 Action Cards, an instruction manual and a box to store it all. $16.97, ages 6+, Found at various retailers.

Party invitations are again on your fridge. Now, it’s just time to get the perfect gift. Looking for some new ideas — whether it’s for your child, family member or child’s friend? Here’s some ideas from preschoolers and beyond. The National Parenting Product Awards shares parent-tested products to help get you started.

By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards

Fashion Fidget

Styled & accessorized in totally fierce fits that double as fidget toys. Will your fidget doll pop, twist, pull or spin?

18 dolls to collect in Series

1. $9.99, ages 5+, Found at various retailers.

Sketch Pals

Clippable doodle board characters perfect for backpacks, lunch boxes and more. Doodle with anything, including the attached stylus or a fingernail. With the push of the Ocean Friend's nose, the doodle board instantly clears itself. $19.99-$34.99, ages 4+, myboogieboard.com

Bubiloons Confetti

Collectible animals that make bubbles with their mouths. Pop off the top of the cupcake and watch an explosion of confetti. Each one comes with eight surprises. 12+ characters to collect, including one rare. $9.99, ages 5+, imctoys.com

Kanoodle Fusion

This light up, color-blending game offers hours of endless fun as players challenge themselves to strategize and solve over 50 brain-bending puzzles by mixing primary and secondary colors. $21.99, ages 7+, educationalinsights.com

Craft-tastic Nature –Make a Bug Hotel

Give bugs and insects a place to rest and nest. Easily snap the wooden panels together and personalize it with fun water-proof hotel themed stickers. Fill it with leaves, stickers, flowers and more. Comes with a identification guide booklet. $19.99, ages 4+, playmonster.com

VIP Pets Cats

Arrives in a cat-shaped perfume vessel that has a unique UV light reveal, shine the UV light on the doll for glowing neon hair and designs. Six neon cats to collect, each with 11 inches long hair and eight accessories. $19.99, ages 5+, imctoys.com

Clay Sculpting Station

Build, sculpt and paint three animal sculptures or a mini clay pot. Featuring step-bystep instructions and a builtin kid-powered turn table, young artists can easily sculp and paint all sides of their creations. $24.99, ages 5+, crayola.com

BrainBolt Genius

A mind-melting memory game. Watch the lights flash across the 21 buttons, use your memory to recreate the pattern without missing a beat. Features five different levels, a head-to-head and solo mode. $23.99, ages 7+, Found at various retailers.

Dinosaur Adventure Backpack

Enjoy hours of prehistoric play. Comes with eight realistic dinosaurs, accessories and a large foldout prehistoric play scene. The roomy, zippered compartment has space for all the pieces and kids’ extra belongings—making it easy to pack up and go. $49.99, ages 3+, lakeshorelearning.com

Spidey & His Amazing Friends Web Spinning Hauler

Join Spidey, Ghost-Spider and Miles Morales: Spider-Man as they chase down villains. $27.99, ages 3+, jazwares.com

Fur By The Foor

Bubblegum Besties

A menagerie of rainbow-hued stuffed animal plushies named for favorite bubblegum flavors like Double Mint, Berry Twist, Rainbow Ice, and Arctic Chill. Animal plushies can be reloaded and rewound into their dispenser packaging. $20.99, ages 3+, justplayproducts.com

5-in-1 Wood Gift Set

Five colorful and fun wood toys that introduce children to animals, colors, letters, numbers, telling time & more. Set includes: 12-piece Jigsaw Puzzle, Shape Sorter Clock, Counting Worm, Llama Stacker, and Rolling Vehicle. $49.99, ages 3+, tcgtoys.com

Marvel Universe with Marvel Eye Found It

Search for hundreds of hidden illustrations. Visit Wakanda, Asgard, and everywhere in between on a huge, illustrated game board. $24.99, ages 4+, Found at various retailers.

Disney Doorables Let’s Go!

Around The World Multi Peek

Open the airplane doors to discover an exciting destination – all with a unique collection of 5, 6, or 7 figures and collector cards. These surprise toys take kids around the world. $12.99, ages 5+, justplayproducts.com

Koosh Flix Stix

Plays like lacrosse and is easy to flick, catch, and hard to put down. Perfect for hours of outdoor fun. $24.99, ages 6+, playmonster.com

#Boneless Skaters

Electric-powered mini skateboards come with hyper-poseable skaters that do stunts. Stunt sets sold separately and include the Big Air Mega Ramp — the ultimate vert ramp for monster jumps — and Super Street Sk8Prk, where skaters ricochet off fencing. $12.99, ages 6+, skateboneless.com

Playfoam

Sand Sensory Set

Everything you need for irresistible, tactile fun you can feel while building on imagination. Kids develop number recognition, counting and fine motor skills through every sculpting and squishing fun. $21.99, ages 3+, educationalinsights.com

Pokémon Flame & Flight Deluxe Charizard

Fully interactive with over 30 unique lights, sounds and movements. Includes a 2˝ Pikachu figure & launcher for training. $29.99, ages 8+, jazwares.com

For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com

Cuts N Curls

They do more than haircuts at Cuts N Curls. Voted best party venue three years in a row. Be a princess for a day and book a princess party or royal treatment with us. Parties include glamorous updos with glitter and hair bling. Fabulous manicures, makeup, fun tattoos, crafts and games. Once you’re all glammed up walk their runway for a red carpet fashion show. Sit back and relax, they have your next birthday covered. Visit cutsncurls.net

Diamond Spin Bowls

They know finding a fun and affordable kids party venue can be challenging. Parents shouldn’t feel like they are breaking the bank or sacrificing quality to celebrate their little one’s special day. Spins Bowl offers new lanes, arcade , and two-story laser tag arena. They’ve simplified the process and price so that planning is much easier than scoring a perfect game. Choose from any of the three Northeast Ohio locations. Visit spinsbowl.com

Ellie - May’s Gourmet Cookies

Celebrate your child’s birthday and have a unique party experience. Small parties start at a minimum of 5 kids. All parties include:reserved table for 90 minutes, private host, cookie craft, tablecloth, utensils, gift table setting, slice of pizza for each child, bottled water, birthday photo, Ellie-May’s Gourmet Cookies, 3441 Tuttle Rd, Shaker Hts (Inside the Market Hall at The Van Aken District) Register at elliemayscookies.com

BOMBA Taco + Bar

It offers guests the ability to discover new, craveable flavors in a local hangout that they can call their own. The menu features a variety of tacos and bowls with bold, global flavors in a vibrant environment that is upbeat and welcoming. It adds excitement and fun to its offerings with scratch-made tequila, bourbon and rum cocktails. bombatacos.com

Pet tacularHalloween

BY ANGLEA GARTNER

For your furry and non-furry family members, Halloween is another holiday where they can join in on the festivities.

Halloween this

According

SIENA, 10 MONTHS OLD

PHOTO BY KIM STAHNKE.

PHOTO BY KIM STAHNKE.

With more pet parents deciding dressing up their pet can be part of the spirit of Halloween, we asked some readers to send us their favorite costumes and provide some advice for the season.

Marissa Rapsik has been dressing up Ziggy since he was a puppy.

“I love making his costumes and we’ve gone to many dog costume contests over the years,” she says. “Ziggy’s been a “corn dog” and dressed as an ear of corn, the Up house, a brain, and Mr. Potato Head. Ziggy is a good sport about it and we love seeing him in the costumes.”

Kristen Hass said it’s something she looks forward to as a pet owner, who dresses up her dog Roxy.

“My advice for pet owners is to find a cos tume your pet likes and one they’re comfortable in,” Hass says.

Pet parent, Shauna Grimm of Howard, an English Bulldog, said he’s enjoyed the extra attention (when he puts on the costumes).

“We have done a prisoner with the name Horrible Howard and a boy scout,” she says about others he’s worn.

The 12-year-old bulldog is a rescue, which is important to the family.

“Our rescue pups both have been through a lot and we really got to see them blossom into the great dogs they are,” Grimm says. “Always helping a helpless pet is the best feeling.”

While some pets love the dress-up, some others are a little harder to please.

Nubs, the cat, named after her short tail, joined the Szwec family on Christmas in 2021 from a shelter, according to pet parent, Andrea Szwec.

“My daughter was a bee for Halloween a few years ago and wanted Nubs to follow suit with her mostly black coat,” Szwec says. “ As you can imagine, Nubs was not a fan of wearing a costume. Thankfully, she complied for a short while on Halloween and we were fortunate to capture the moment with a few photos. Most likely Nubs will reprise her bee role for Hallow een again.”

With so many trick-or-treaters going in and out, make sure your cats — and dogs — are away from the excitement.

“Our tip for keeping indoor cats safe on Halloween is to keep a close eye on them while passing out candy, or even keeping them in a safe area where they cannot escape,” Szwec says. “Another cat of ours did jump outside once on Halloween. She was the definition of a ‘scaredy cat’ with trick-or-treaters and came right back in.”

Here are some ways from the American Veter inary Medical Association to have a safe and pet-friendly Halloween.

• Don’t feed pets Halloween treats. Raisins and candy may contain substances toxic to pets, such as chocolate or xylitol (a common sugar substitute found in sugar-free candies and gum). Often, you won’t be able to tell what a treat or piece of candy contains just by looking at it.

• Make sure your pets have identification (micro chip, collar, and ID tag).

• Keep lit candles, jack-o-lanterns, and other Halloween decorations out of reach of pets.

• Keep all human costume pieces away from pets, along with glow sticks, decorations, batteries, and other holiday items. When chewed, glow stick items can release liquid that tastes really bad and can make pets drool excessively or act strangely (though it isn’t likely to be harmful).

• Other costume parts and decorations might cause choking, internal injury, or illness.

• If you plan to put a costume on your pet, make sure it follows these guidelines:

• Fits properly and is comfortable

• Doesn’t have any pieces that easily can be chewed off or cause choking

• Doesn’t block your pet’s sight, hearing, breathing, mouth, or movement

• Take time before Halloween to get your pet accustomed to the costume, and never leave a costumed pet unsupervised.

• If your pet is wary of strangers or has a tendency to bite, put them in a room away from the front door during trick-or-treating hours, or provide them with a safe hiding place.

• Keep your pet indoors.

KIDS PLAYING FROM LEFT, KADEN, 11; JULIAN, 9; ALEXA, 8, LOUISA,6; AND VINCENT, 11, WITH GEORGE, 2 YEAR OLD GOLDEN RETRIEVER. ARNIE, 11 YEAR OLD GOLDEN RETRIEVER ON LEFT

PHOTO BY KIM STAHNKE.

Bootiful Costumes

from Readers and Staff

We asked and you delivered! Here are some pet-tastic photos of furry friends dressed in their best Halloween gear.

Louie and Henry

“Fiesta all day, siesta all night”

Sweet Pea

9 year old rescued Dochsador, wearing her candy corn collar

Photo submitted by Sherry Lundberg, Art Director at Northeast Ohio Parent

Reagan

“RJ Superman” 2.5-year-old Scottish Terrier

Belle

Photo by Alexandra Schriefer

Photo by Angela Gartner, editor at Northeast Ohio Parent

Photo submitted by Lindsay McCoy, Northeast Ohio Parent blogger of “Mommy on Assignment”

Roxy dressed as their little monster

Photo by Kristen Haas

Nubs

Howard

We want to see your pet costumes all month long!

Send us your furry or scaly friends having a fun, safe fall season! We will feature them on our social media platforms throughout October!

Visit NortheastOhioParent.com to fill out the form and find more pet-friendly resources.

Ziggy dressed as Mr. Pac-Man Photo submitted by Marissa Rapsik

This was Nubs’ first Halloween costume Photo by Andrea Szwec

a 12 year old rescued English Bulldog, as a lumberjack Photo submitted by Shauna Grimm

STEAMfall

By Denise Koeth

Once again, it’s time for fall fun in Northeast Ohio. Between trips to the apple orchard and pumpkin patch, your family can enjoy seasonal festivities at home, too. With a little planning, some educational activities can be so fun, your kids won’t even realize they’re learning at the same time. Find inspiration with these 10 fall-themed STEAM activities for kids of all ages, arranged from those that appeal to younger children to those best suited for older kids.

1PUMPKIN SENSORY BAGS With this simple activity, even babies and toddlers can get in on the fall fun. Simply scoop some pumpkin insides and place in a plastic gallon-size zip-top storage bag. Be sure to include seeds, slime and bits of pulp for textural variety. Then seal the bag and let your kiddo feel the ooey gooey stuff from outside the bag, all while keeping hands — and your house — clean. For babies, tape the bag to a tray or table so it stays put.

2APPLE SENSORY SLIME Toddlers and preschoolers will love this sensory experience, which uses a basic recipe for fluffy slime (courtesy of steamsational.com), plus a seasonal color and scent. In a large bowl, place two 4-oz. containers of Elmer’s school glue and add red food coloring (gel works best). Add two cups of shaving cream to the glue mixture and stir. Add about half a cup of liquid laundry starch to the mixture and stir. If your slime is still sticky to the touch, add a bit more laundry starch until you can stretch and play with it without the fluffy slime sticking to your hands. When the slime is the right texture, add apple essential oil for the perfect fall scent.

3LEAF CREATURES Make use of all the colorful autumn leaves, plus sticks, acorns, berries and any other of nature’s art supplies, to create leaf people or animals. Take a walk to collect items, then let your child’s creativity go wild arranging their subject over a piece of paper. Use clear tape or glue to secure all the objects to the paper, and hang on display once dry.

4DANCING CORN Even little kids can get in on the science fun with this super simple experiment. All you need is a glass jar, popcorn kernels, a base liquid (water, oil or vinegar) and a reactant (baking soda or Alka-Seltzer tablets). Fill the jar with a base liquid and drop in enough kernels to cover the bottom. Next, add the reactant and watch the kernels dance! Experiment with using different base liquids and reactants to see which works the best.

5MAGIC JACK-O-LANTERN This experiment, perfect for preschoolers and early elementary-aged children, uses a chemical reaction to quickly inflate a balloon. Before starting, use a marker to draw a jack-o-lantern face on an orange balloon for a festive touch. All you need is an empty water bottle, vinegar, baking soda, a funnel and your balloon. Use the funnel to fill the bottle about ¼ full with vinegar. Rinse and dry the funnel, then use it to add 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda inside the balloon. Place the lip of the balloon securely over the top of the bottle, with the balloon hanging loosely to the side. Next, lift the balloon above the bottle so that the baking soda falls down into the vinegar. The chemical reaction will inflate the balloon, making the jack-o-lantern spring to life.

10seasonal activities to engage kids of all ages in science, technology, engineering, art &math

CANDY BAR SINK OR FLOAT

This simple sink or float experiment gets a sweet, festive twist by using your kids’ favorite Halloween candy. Choose several different fun-size candy bars and have your kids predict which they think will sink and which they think will float. For example, will a Snickers’ peanuts weigh the bar down, while a Kit Kat’s lightweight wafers keep the bar afloat? Fill a large glass or bowl with water and test each bar’s buoyancy one at a time, then record the results.

CANDY CORN CATAPULTS

Put your family’s knowledge of physics to the test by seeing who can create the most successful candy corn catapult using items found around the house. Let your kids experiment on their own, or find plans at frugalfun4boys.com. Building materials can include pencils, craft sticks, tape, rubber bands, plastic spoons, bottle caps and more. Once each catapult is built, test your aim by placing boxes or buckets for the candy corn to land inside, or try a distance competition.

8 9 10

PUMPKIN VOLCANO Elevate the classic vinegar-and-baking-soda experiment by using a pumpkin as the vessel — just remember, the larger the pumpkin used, the more of each ingredient you’ll need and the bigger the mess. Gather vinegar, baking soda, water, dish soap, food coloring (optional) and a pumpkin (the following measurements are for a “baking” or “pie” pumpkin). First, hollow out the pumpkin and carve a face, if desired. Fill the pumpkin about halffull with warm water, a few drops of food coloring, five drops of dish soap, and a few tablespoons of baking soda. When you’re ready for the eruption, add a quarter-cup of vinegar and watch the reaction!

BUILDING WITH CANDY From houses to roller coasters to skyscrapers, this activity will make everyone feel like an architect. Use toothpicks and your favorite gummy candy (jellybeans, gummy bears or gummy pumpkins work well) at each stick’s intersection to build 3D creations. For older kids, give small prizes based on categories, such as tallest structure, most toothpicks used, etc.

DISSOLVING PUMPKIN PEEPS Every kid loves these sweet spring treats, but did you know there is a fall version, as well? Use pumpkin Peeps for this interactive experiment that compares how different liquids affect the marshmallow treats. Fill five glass jars or cups with different liquids (milk, water, oil, vinegar, tonic water, etc.) and place a Peep in each. Set a timer for 10 or 20 minutes — however long your children’s attention span may be — and make notes of your observations. After the time is up, use a slotted spoon to remove each Peep and lay them side-by-side. Compare their size, color and consistency, then talk about how the different liquids affected the Peeps. Prior to the experiment, older kids can make their predictions for what they think will happen.

Halloween and

Fall Fun &Frolic

Halloween

• PICK-A-DAY

FRIDAYS

& SATURDAYS

Spooky Science. Learn about all the things in nature that

can “spook or creep you out.” 10/7-22. 5-9 p.m. Beech Creek Botanical Garden, 11929 Beech St. NE, Alliance, beechcreekgardens.org

SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS

Boo at the Akron Zoo. Put on your costume, grab a candy bag and head to the zoo. 10/15-30. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, akronzoo.org

Day-by-DAY •

10/7-9

The Chillicothe Halloween Festival. A three-day festival celebrating the fun of Hallow een. Yoctangee Park, 1 Annex, N Park Dr., chillicothehalloweenfestival. com

10/7-8

Enhanced Forest. Meet cos tumed volunteers such as Frog, Spider, and Fireflies along the pumpkin trails. 6-8:30 p.m. The Wilderness Center, 9877 Ala bama Ave., SW, Wilmot, wildernesscenter.org

10/15

Halloween Mini-Train Rides. Wear costumes for this spook tacular event. 2-4 p.m. & 6:308:30 p.m. Lester Rail Trail, 3654 Lester Road, Medina, medinacountyparks.com

Spooky Pooch Parade. A cele bration of costumed canines. 12:30-3:30 p.m. Madison Park, 13201 Madison Ave., Lakewood, lakewoodalive.org

•

Trick or Treat Trail. Take a walk around the park and collect candy and goodies. 3 p.m. Green Central Park, 1795 Steese Rd., Green, cityofgreen.org

Super Science Saturday: Super Skeletons. To some, skeletons might seem scary, but to us, we think they are SUPER! 10:30 a.m.3:30 p.m. Akron Fossils & Science Center, 2080 S. Cleveland Massillon Road, Copley, akronfossils.com

Haunted Hayride. A spooky fun evening for the whole family. 6-9 p.m. Silver Springs Park, 5238 Young Road, Stow, stowohio.org

10/21

Adapted Halloween Drivethru Volunteer Adventure. Be a part of the other side of the event and volunteer as a tech or in a costume. 5-9 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com

10/22

Family Fall Fest & Treat Trail. Dress in costume for hay rides, crafts, games, photo booth and treats. 2:30-6:30 p.m. Tam O’Shanter Park, 5055 Hills & Dales Road NW, Canton, starkparks.com

Family Fun Fair and Exceptionalities Expo. Trunk-or-treat, food, good ie bags and more. Noon-3 p.m. The Church at Silver Lake, 2951 Kent Road, Silver Lake, mcbdd.org

Trunk or Treat. Explore trucks and vehicles that keep parks beautiful while collecting treats. 5-7 p.m. Silver Creek Lake House, 5000 Hametown Road, Norton, summitmetroparks.org

Haunted Gingerbread Houses. Families build and decorate spooky ginger bread houses together. 2-3 p.m. Akron Public Library, 60 High St., akronlibrary.org

10/22-23

Pumpkin Decorating and Carving Contest. For individuals, families or teams. Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, 3512 Darrow Road, smfpl.org

10/25-28

Pumpkins & Piranhas. Not-so-spooky Halloween fun. Greater Cleveland Aquarium, 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, greatercleveland aquarium.com

10/26

Spooky Walk & Talk: Bats. Hear about these often misunderstood animals and learn why they are not scary at all. 6-7 p.m. Fry Family Park, 2533 Farber St. NE, Magnolia, starkparks.com

10/27

Halloween Boo-Tique. Dress up for a fun evening of trick-or-treating. 5-7 p.m. Eton Chagrin Blvd., 28601 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere, etonchagrinblvd.com

Early Childhood Family Fall Stroll. Wear your costume and pick up treats. 5:30-7 p.m. The Music Settlement, 11125 Magnolia Dr., Cleve land, themusicsettlement.org

Family Spooky Stories. Gather around the “camp fire” for some scary autumn stories. 3-4 p.m. Garden Valley Branch Library, 7201 Kinsman Road, #101, Cleveland, cpl.org

10/28

Hall-o-ween Hound Hike. Parade through the park with your favorite costumed-pooch. 2-4 p.m. Headwaters Park, 13365 Old State Road, Claridon & Huntsburg Twps., geaugaparkdistrict.org

Halloween Night Hike. A family-friendly, “spooky” evening filled with stories and stars in the planetari um, and a hike around the Center and into the woods. 6-8:30 p.m. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, lensc.org

10/29

Trick & Treats. Dress up in your favorite costume and get ready to kick off the weekend with some Halloween fun. Noon-3 p.m. Crocker Park, 177 Market St., Westlake, crockerpark.com

Slightly Spooky Stories. Families are invited to trick or treat and explore sta tions that explore slightly spooky stories. Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath, wrhs.org

10/30

Halloween Spooktacular Family Concert. A haunt ingly fun program filled with musical tricks and treats. 2 p.m. Severance Hall, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, clevelandorchestra.com

fall • ongoing •

Through Mid October

Pick Your Own Apples. Pick some great Ohio apples and take a wagon ride.10 a.m.-5 p.m. Patterson Farms, 8765 Mulberry Road, Chesterland, pattersonfarm.com

Corn Maze. Winding paths that steer you to intersections where you must decide where to go. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road., Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com

Through 10/23

Pumpkin Pandemonium. Scavenger hunt, Harvest Maze, hayride and more. Heritage Farms, 6050 Riverview Road, Peninsula, heritagefarms.com

Old West Pumpkin Fest at Rockin’-R’ Ranch. More than just pumpkins, it’s fall fun for everyone. Saturdays and Sun days from Noon-5 p.m. 19066 East River Road, Columbia Sta tion, clevelandhayride.com

Through 10/30

U-Pick Apples & Fun Farm Ac tivities. U-pick, maze and other activities. Weekends 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 50336 Telegraph Road. Amherst, hillcrestfunfarm.com

Pumpkin Days at Nickajack Farms. Pumpkin bowling, paintball, and a wagon ride to the pumpkin patch. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 2955 Manchester Ave., Canal Fulton, nickajackfarms.com

Pumpkin Festival at Red Wagon Farm. Enjoy a fall day of family fun every other Saturday & Sunday, and on one Friday: 10/14. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 16801 E. River Road, Columbia Station, redwagonfarm.com

Through 10/31

Family Scarecrow Contest. Gather the family for this fun and exciting contest. Wildwood Cultural Center, 7645 Little Mountain Road, Mentor, cityofmentor.com

10/8

• Day-by-DAY •

Harvest Fest at the Chalet. Clambake, s’mores, hayrides, live music, family fun and more. 4-8 p.m. 16200 Valley Pkwy., Strongsville, clevelandmetroparks.com

10/8-9

Apple Butter Festival. Take turns stirring apple butter, watch giant kites fly, shop, and more. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Century Village Museum, 14653 E. Park St., Burton, centuryvillagemuseum.org

Harvest Festival at Hale Farm & Village. Experience the season al work of a 19th century farm. 10-5 p.m. 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath, wrhs.org

10/9

Family Fun Walk. Walk around the world in 60 minutes with The Cleveland Cultural Gardens. 1:30 p.m. 890 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Cleveland, maltzmuseum.org

Harvest Festival & Fall Foliage Tour. Face painting, crafts, music and more. Noon-5 pm. Seville Library, 45 Center St., mcdl.info

10/11

Adapted Plant Planet. Ages 5+ come for a fun fall program. 5-6:30 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com

10/13

Autumn Colors Hike. Enjoy the beautiful colors of autumn while hiking along Downy Loop Trail. 5:30-7 p.m. Wood Hollow Metro Park, 2121 Barlow Road, Hudson, summitmetroparks.org

10/21

Family Flashlight Walk. Drop by to spot nature in the early evening with the help of a flashlight. 6:30-7:30 p.m. F. A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron, summitmetroparks.org

10/22

Timbertots: Autumn Exploration. Join Nora the Explorer for a fun time discovering the sights, scents and sounds of autumn in nature! 10-11 a.m. & 1-2 p.m. The Rookery Lodge, 10110 Cedar Road, Munson Twp., geaguaparkdistrict.org

10/29

Read with a Ranger. Hear a book, learn fun facts about wildlife, see real pelts and more. Noon-3 p.m. Tower City Center, 230 W. Huron Road, Cleveland, towercitycenter.com

11/4

Owl Prowl. Live owls will be present. Hear stories of owls and head out on a hike. 7-9 p.m. Lakeview Cemetery, 12316 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, shakerlakes.org

Halloween and Fall Fun &Frolic

ADVERTISER LISTINGS

CLEVELAND

METROPARKS

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s annual daytime Halloween celebration returns weekends in October. Bring your fam ily in costume Fridays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., October 7 - 30. Trick-or-Treat Fest includes meet-and-greets with costumed charac ters, access to 20 trick-or-treat stations along Wayside Furniture Way, and the return of the Monster Mash Dance Party at the Zoo’s amphitheater presented by CrossCountry Mortgage. This add-on ticketed experience also includes unlimited train rides on the Pumpkin Express.Trick-or-Treat Fest will have timed ticketing and tickets are limited. Guests are strongly encouraged to purchase their tickets in advance at futureforwildlife.org/trickortreatfest.

Hale Farm & Village

Harvest time at Hale Farm & Village is a time for natural

beauty, busy farm days, and their favorite traditional fall scents and flavors. Guests will experience seasonal work of a 19th century farm, while community partners demon strate how traditions like cider pressing and fermentation have remained popular and important in communities today. Join them for seasonal bites and live music, and a special visit from Johnny Appleseed on Oct. 1-2. Visit wrhs.org

Pumpkin Pandemonium at Heritage Farms

Starting September 24 bring the family to go on a scavenger hunt, get lost in the Harvest Maze and take a relaxing hayride around the farm. They have pumpkins, gourds, corn shocks & straw bales for sale along with a variety of seasonal refreshments. Pumpkin Pandemonium is open Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday 2-6 p.m. at Heritage Farms, 6050 Riverview Rd., Peninsula, your farm for all seasons, heritagefarms.com

Lorain County Metro Parks Halloween Fair

Lorain County Metro Parks

Halloween Fair

Halloween Fair returns to LCMP’s Carlisle Reservation in LaGrange. Bring the family to enjoy a spooktacular event with haunted trail, train rides, food, games, and more! This event will be held October 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29 with a special sensory-friendly, All Ability Day on Oct 20. Tickets go on-sale on September 27 at loraincountymetroparks. com. Admission is $5 per person and avail able through presale only. No on-site ticket sales.

NickaJack Farms

Pumpkin Days at NickaJack Farms is open every day 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. through October 31. Purchase your tickets online or at the door.

Activities include

hayrides, corn maze, pony rides, animals, corn crib, peddle carts, and much more.

Interested in only pumpkins and decor? The perfect non-admission area is full of fall fun. The farm grows 75 varieties of pumpkins, gourds, and squash. Mums, large and small straw bales, corn and corn stalk bundles available for sale. nickajackfarms.com

Red Wagon Farm

Every fall they turn their working farm into a place for families to come visit and spend the day “unplugged” and just out enjoying the fall in Northeast Ohio. The wagon ride through the Land of the Scarecrows has become a family tradition. The 5-acre corn maze challenge, kid’s play area and giant corn kernel pit are a great way to burn off energy. Don’t forget to stop by the food tent for a bite and swing into our market to take home some fresh veggies or some sweet goodies before you leave Visit redwagonfarm.com

Patterson Fruit Farm

Experience the fall harvest season at Patterson Farms in Chesterland, where families are welcomed seven days a week to pick their own apples, enjoy the pro duce-filled farm market and play at the Family Fun Fest geared toward children in preschool through sixth grade. Follow Patterson Fruit Farm on Facebook for details. pattersonfarm.com

What Parents Need to Know About Middle School

By Georgia Lattas

Middle school begins the time where you watch your little son or daughter grow into a preteen. School changes, too, from curriculum to the environment. Here are some ways parents should know about the middle school years, and how they can help their preteen navigate their changing environment.

“The biggest differences between elementary school and middle school are that the buildings are much larger, which can be intimidating,” Todd Griffen, principal at Shiloh Middle School says. “This also means that students will be moving more throughout the day and having more teachers on their schedule than they might be used to in elementary school. Another big difference is the amount of students in their grade and in the building. Students go from 300 students in a building to 500 or more. This brings new friend groups, which again can be a big change for students.”

To ensure your child makes a smooth transition from elementary to middle school, knowing when to start looking at middle schools is a key step. If your local district’s middle school is from sixth through eighth grades, it is important to start looking for schools when your child is in fourth and fifth grade. Begin by shadowing at schools, meeting with admissions teams, and getting an overall feel of the environment.

Some schools might have an application process, whereas other schools don’t. Check in with the school you are interested in and find out what the enrollment process will look like and when you can begin applying.

“We don’t have an application process, but we do have the opportunity for students and families to choose a school that they would like to attend,” Griffen says. “Otherwise, based on boundary lines, students are slated to go to the middle school that is closest to their home. If they are trying to use the school of choice option, they fill out a form and state their reason for wanting to go to a different school. The principal then makes a choice on whether to accept that student or not.”

UNDERSTAND NEW ROUTINES

Some students may no longer have recess as they enter middle school. Students can

expect a variety of new subjects, which means new supplies. Check in with the teacher and determine if your child needs an advanced calculator, graphing paper, a protractor, or a laptop.

Also, kids might have something new in middle school — a locker. Remembering the combinations, opening it and staying organized can be tricky. Most schools provide opportunities for students to practice and fill their space before school starts.

Encourage your kids to practice at home with a lock and check-in with them on how it’s going throughout the first month of school. Also, before winter break, talk to them about bringing their locker contents home, as you might need to replenish supplies or ensure they are throwing away items.

ROAD TO INDEPENDENCE

Around middle school age, children should be able to do their homework independently and should study independently.

“I think the biggest area is to give their students an opportunity to find their own path, and know that especially at the start of the year it is probably going to be a bumpy road,”

Griffen says.

He encourages kids to get involved with the various clubs and activities.

“Students need to have a chance to make their own way, and learn to advocate for themselves or ask questions if they are struggling with something,” he says. “The parents’ role in that is just to encourage students to get involved in any school activities, but also continue to support their child like they did in elementary school.”

GETTING HELP IF NEEDED

Many schools offer resources for students during the day if they are feeling anxious — coaches, teachers, and school counselors are often willing to talk and offer support and resources.

“Our goal is that every student is able to identify at least one support person in the building,” Griffen says.”

As students grow up and become preteens, their relationship with their parents might change. Students might become more distant and might not want to tell them everything about their day, as they once did in elementary school. This can be difficult for a

parent, especially if their child was close to them in the younger years.

“I think it’s good to recognize that your child is going to change as they enter middle school and grow over the years,” Griffen says. “This change is expected and with it will come some distant behavior, back talk, forgetfulness, and attitude. Knowing that these changes will occur and continuing to be a support system for your child is the most important thing that any parent can do. Have a nightly conversation about the most challenging thing that their student did that day, or a highlight from one of their classes will keep that connection between parent and student, and also allow the parent to learn a little about what is going on each day at school.”

Knowing what is going on in your child’s life is important. Many children hide a lot of aspects of their life from their parents – including if they are getting bullied.

“I encourage every family and student that if they are having trouble with another student or group of students to make sure that the office is aware of what is going on so that things can be put in place to make that situation better,” Griffen says.”

Middle school will be filled with new experiences and new opportunities – it is important to support your child in any way that you can.

“My best advice is that every new middle

schooler is feeling the exact same way, including myself for the first week of school,” Griffen says. “Everything is new and that can cause anxiety, but it can also bring on a lot of excitement if we are able to provide the right support for our students.  What I encourage all of our

new students and families to do is to communicate with us about what their student needs, and trust that we will work tirelessly to make their experience at middle school a positive one.”

At the School Guidance Office

SCHOOL COUNSELORS CAN HELP STUDENTS NAVIGATE ACADEMICS AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING.

By Georgia Lattas

Recognizing you need to talk to someone takes great strength – knowing who to talk to can sometimes be a challenge. Luckily, for most students, a guidance coun selor is available throughout the school day that students can go to for advice, help, or even just to catch up. Guidance counselors can be a support system and resource for students of all ages. Parents should be aware of how counsel ors can help emotionally and academically sup port your child.

“Our main responsibility is to support the social and emotional well-being of our students during their tenure here,” says Mike Strauss, school counseling department chair at Saint Ignatius High School. “This may be as simple as helping students navigate their courses and academics, to difficult situations such as the loss of a family member, bullying, mental health is sues, or drug and alcohol issues.”

Depending on the school, some schools may

have only one guidance counselor for the entire student body, whereas other schools have half a dozen guidance counselors readily available to assist students any time they need. Both scenar ios have their pros and cons, but establishing a relationship with a guidance counselor you feel best can support your needs is important.

“Each counselor has roughly 250 students among the four grades,” Strauss says. “We break our students up by letters of the alphabet and assign the counselors that way.”

“We all kind of work as a team,” adds Alicia McLean, director of school counseling at Beau mont School. “We do divide by grade level, but if one of us isn’t available, we all kind of step in.”

Students shouldn’t be afraid to drop by the guidance counselor’s office and see if they are available to chat. Some counselors may prefer that students set up appointments with them beforehand, but most will not turn down a stu dent who is looking to chat.

“Students are free to drop in to see their counselors at any time,” Strauss says. “They can email us for appointments if that is easier.”

“We plan our day knowing that students will simply drop into our office and want to meet about things,” says Jeff Petrulis, school counsel or at Rocky River High School. “For those who do like to schedule appointments, they can send us an email. Either way, we try to balance our scripted programming and lessons along with just being available for students as needed.”

Some schools may require students to meet with their guidance counselor once a semester or once a year. Each first meeting will look differently depending on the school and the counselor, but most counselors will try to get to know the student during the first initial meet ing.

“There is no typical look to our first meet ing,” Strauss says. “Sometimes students come in with a crisis and are very open right away.

Others are hesitant to talk about things. We do our best to meet students where they are, and build a relationship of trust. Our philosophy is that we are our students’ biggest advocates on campus. Typically we will meet with our stu dents several times a year. We also see students in our advisory program, which is a program that gathers 12-15 students each week to go over social-emotional lessons and community building activities. Our students know that we are a resource for them. Some are frequent visi tors. Others drop in only once in a while.”

“It always looks a little different,” McLean adds. “If it’s something that’s pre-scheduled, the first meeting often is getting to know the student, getting to know their background aca demically, their family background, the things that they’re involved with, the challenges that they’re currently facing, their goals, etc. If it’s an unscheduled meeting, then it looks a little different. Then, it’s more of that direct ap proach to handling the problem at hand.”

Some students may not know what questions are off-limits to ask, or may feel uncomfortable opening up to their counselor. Students should share whatever they feel comfortable with.

“We let our students know that our place is a safe space,” Strauss says. “They can ask any kind of question, whether it deals with an ac ademic issue or a social/emotional issue. We have had simple questions like where a club meets, to serious issues about suicide or depres sion. We often give an analogy that we don’t know what a student is carrying in their back pack emotionally, so we are ready for just about anything.”

“We are very open,” McLean adds. “We en

“For some students, it’s helping them iden tify some clubs or sports activities they want to become involved with,” Petrulis says. “For us as counselors, we love to help students connect so that they really can engage in our school community, especially outside of the academic realm. We try to push them to find that school and community engagement.”

. “We can advise students based on their future plans or goals, which classes to take, when to challenge themselves, what electives might be fitting for them that they might en joy, things like that,” McLean adds. “We’re doing a lot of academic advising in that pro cess. We also are doing it throughout the year. We do weekly grade tracks on our end, where we’re monitoring our pool of students and we’re monitoring their grades on a weekly basis. We come together then, in a student service man agement team, and meet bi weekly, and we dis cuss any students who might need additional academic advising.

Guidance counselors are present to help support a child’s emotional and mental needs. School and other areas in teen life can be chal lenging, and guidance counselors are there to offer support and a helping hand to those who need it.

“If our students know they have a trusted adult on campus, they are more likely to feel engaged and safe at school,” Strauss says. “As school counselors, we also know our bound aries. We do not diagnose students or treat students’ mental health situations, but we can offer resources outside of the school to get pro fessional help.”

“I think you’ve got to bring it down to a

We continue to be in a competitive culture and are constantly working towards trying to be the best and to be involved in so many differ ent things. That is providing a lot of stress and anxiety and then social media is just adding to that, because they’re constantly exposed to what others are doing.”

Seeking help is not weak. It takes tremen dous strength and courage to ask for help from a trusted adult on campus. There is more good that comes out of reaching out for help rather than suffering in silence.

“The biggest advantage is for a student to learn that they are not alone in their high school journey, and that they have someone they can trust in case they face adversity,” Strauss says.

“Our message to our students is that courage is not figuring high school out on your own or keeping your emotions inside. Rather, courage is having the ability to ask for help when you need help.

Some students may feel anxious about meet ing with the guidance counselor, which is com pletely normal. Do not be afraid to stop in and chat.

“Start with hello,” Petrulis adds. “Think of it as any other relationship. I would encourage them to remember that we’re on their side. Our goals are to help them accomplish their goals. We want to meet students where they are and then encourage them to make improvements along the way so that they can reach that level of self-efficacy as a young adult.

Some parents may be hesitant to let their child meet with the school counselor. It’s im

courage our students to be open with us. They can ask us anything in terms of their academ ics, their struggles, their challenges, their goal setting. We are the kind of people in the build ing that they can come to about any topic that they might not be comfortable talking about at home or with their peers or with teachers.”

Guidance counselors are also a great aca demic resource. Students can go to them for academic advice, what classes they should take, how to handle academic stress and anxiety, and a variety of other topics.

human level,” adds Carolyn Beeler, college counselor, at Our Lady of the Elms. “It’s very important to listen to what is most important to the student. The main issue that students are facing today is anxiety and stress. Students generally are feeling a lot of stress and anxiety with going through this pandemic. There have been disruptions in learning and disruptions in their emotional growth. So some of the stu dents might be a little bit behind in terms of their social emotional learning. That creates additional stress and anxiety for the students.

portant to remember that school counselors are there as a resource for your child, not to judge them or their family.

“We’re here to help,” Petrulis says. “That in cludes both students and parents. We do not push any sort of agenda or try to push them in any certain direction. It’s about providing information and knowledge and hopefully helping to build the student’s self-confidence so that they know they can achieve their future goals.”

Guidance counselors are present to help support a child’s emotional and mental needs. School and other areas in teen life can be challenging, and guidance counselors are there to offer support and a helping hand to those who need it.

MIDDLE

CLEVELAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Cleveland Montessori has been serving the Little Italy and Greater Cleveland Community for over 25 years, providing an education for life, which celebrates diversity, growth and joy. Students from preschool through eighth grade are met with respect and compassion as they strive to meet their individual potential in beautifully prepared classrooms that offer social, emotional and academic experiences in a unique urban setting. Apply now for 2023-24. 216-421-0700, info@ clevelandmontessori.org, clevelandmontessori.org

CLEVELAND TRANSFORMATION

ALLIANCE

A better way to find quality pub lic school options in Cleveland. Cleveland Transformation Alliance (CTA) is a reliable and trusted community partner providing families with tools and resources to help them make informed school choice decisions. Work with a CTA navigator today to create a personalized plan and find the best fit school for your family. mycleschool.org

GILMOUR ACADEMY

Gilmour’s Montessori toddler and preschool programs teach children how to learn. Students then move seamlessly into kindergarten through sixth grade, where they are provided endless possibilities to grow, with opportunities ranging from robotics to learning a new instrument each year, to service and nature-based learning. Students then progress to the middle and upper schools to expand on this foundation. As an independent, Catholic school, Gilmour is rooted in its mission to educate the mind and empower the heart of every student. gilmour.org

HAWKEN

Hawken’s lower and middle school programs

reflect the school’s dual commitment to academic and social curricula and focuses on building a strong foundation in basic academic skills with an increasing emphasis on personal responsibility. Recent renova tions support not only Hawken’s commit ment to truly knowing each student as a learner and individual, but also the school’s evolving personalized learning model. Every set of grade-level classrooms has access to an adjacent learning commons to support differentiated learning groups as well as collaborative and project-based approach es to learning. hawken.edu

HERSHEY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Hershey Montessori School prepares students to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Their Montessori approach to education is scientifically geared toward the student’s stages of natural child develop ment. This allows students to discover their individual strengths and master challenging concepts based on personal growth and interests. Hershey’s Concord Campus educates children from birth through sixth grade and their Huntsburg Campus educates adolescents from seventh through 12th grade. Tuition assistance and transpor tation are available. hershey-montessori.org

iSTEM

iSTEM, an independent, public, STEM school maximizes a student’s individual potential. Students engage in a personally relevant and academically rigorous curriculum and are prepared for college and 21st century careers through problem-based interdisci plinary learning. iSTEM is open to students in sixth grade through 12th grade and is tuition-free. iSTEM can guide your child to “Think, Grow, and Be.” Join them Saturday, Oct. 22 from noon-2 p.m. to learn how your student can join the iSTEM school communi ty. 440-898-3283, istemghs.org

JULIE BILLIART SCHOOLS

Julie Billiart Schools, a private, Catholic network of kindergarten through eighth grade schools in Akron, Lyndhurst, and Westlake, educate and empower children with mild to moderate autism, ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning and social differences. JB cele brates potential, nurtures curiosity, and customizes teaching to their students’ unique learning styles. Students are surrounded by strategically designed classrooms, small student-to-teacher ratios, onsite therapies, and state-of-the-art technology. JB students are supported by onsite therapists and certified intervention specialists. juliebilliartschool.org

LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY

Lake Ridge Academy is an independent kindergarten through 12th grade college preparatory school. Strong academic programs, engaging faculty, and an 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio creates an educational environment that fuels a student’s passion for learning. Lower School students learn to think critically through a rich, hands-on curriculum that connects them to the natural world. Special emphasis is placed on social-emotional learning and cultural appreciation through world language classes. Their fall K-12 preview day will be Oct. 24. Register at lakeridgeacademy.org

MIDDLE

GUIDE

Listings

MENLO PARK ACADEMY

Menlo Park Academy is the state’s only tuition-free school for gifted children in kindergarten through eighth grade. The school offers an innovative, accelerat ed curriculum, including nine highschool-credit classes, the opportunity to learn alongside like-minded peers, and a faculty dedicated to meeting the unique needs of gifted children. Students can explore their passions, build friendships, and find belonging as well as academic and social emotional success. Menlo Park Academy is the No. 1 charter elementary, No. 1 charter middle school, ranked No.13 of all kindergarten through fifth grade Ohio public schools (niche.com).

menloparkacademy.com

OUR SHEPHERD LUTHERAN SCHOOL

OSLS has been joyfully serving the community for four decades. They have a highly-educated and caring staff that engages students with innovative programs and hands-on learning while remaining dedicated to the faith formation of students in a loving, Christ-centered environment. They are a kindergarten through eighth grade Christian school housed in the Zion Lutheran Church campus and have a low teacher-student ratio resulting in a greater focus on individual student’s needs.

oslpainesville.org

MIDDLE SCHOOL GUIDE Listings

RUFFING MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Ruffing Montessori School in Cleveland Heights is more than just a school for children ages 18 months through eighth grade. It is a beloved community where children are guided by experienced montessori-trained teachers and immersed in a rigorous curriculum. Explore their beautiful classrooms and see why Ruffing is the compelling school of choice for so many at the admissions open house on Nov. 12 from noon-2 p.m. Register at ruffingmontessori.net or call 216-321-7571.

SETON CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Seton Catholic School (pre-kinder garten through grade eight) is a U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbon School. A lifetime love of learning starts here! Young hearts and minds develop into thoughtful, educated students - ready to thrive and grow. Immersed in the humanities, arts and sciences, foreign languages, mathematics, and environmental education - students are nurtured in a setting of constructive and personalized learning. Innovation and tradition unite with guided responsible use of technology, successfully integrated with time-honored instruction. setoncatholicschool.org

ST. HILARY SCHOOL

The Future Begins Here. St. Hilary School in Fairlawn serves students in grades kinder garten through eighth grade in a faith-based environment with a curriculum that challeng es and accommodates diverse learning abilities. The average student-teacher ratio is 19:1. Special offerings include Spanish, French, Chinese, religion, art, music, physical education, technology, advanced math, and enrichment opportunities. Many extracurricular activities, as well as auxiliary, remedial, clinic, lunch, and extended care services, are available. Chromebooks, a makerspace and science lab put the school at the forefront of STEM learning. 330-867-8720, ext. 343, st-hilaryschool.org

ST. SEBASTIAN PARISH SCHOOL

St. Sebastian Parish School focuses on its mission statement of “excellence in education and commitment to Christ.” While its Christ-centered approach is its focus, their STEM designation from the State of Ohio puts the school at the forefront of education. Students participate in hands-on problem-based learning that is cross-curricular and features collaboration and critical thinking. They have the opportunity to learn about coding and 3-D printing in the Technology Learning Lab and the 1:1 Chromebook program provides technology that personalizes the learning environ ment. stsebastian.org

Tours, free Workshops, & Contests for Middle & High School Students!

The 15th Annual Stop the Hate: ® Youth Speak Out essay contest and Youth Sing Out song writing contest cele brates students committed to creating a more accepting, inclusive society. Each year, through the generosity of a donor, the Maltz Museum awards $100,000 in scholarships and anti-bias education grants in recognition of 6–12th grade upstanders. Will you or your school be the next winner?

To learn more about the Stop the Hate program please visit learn.maltzmuseum.org

Ways to Make Halloween Inclusive for All Children

“The Teal Pumpkin Project is a simple way to make trick-or-treating safer and more inclusive for the one in 13 children living with food allergies, and many others impacted by intolerances and other conditions,” according to FoodAllergy. org. “Placing a teal pumpkin on your doorstep signals that, in addition to can dy, you offer non-food trinkets and treats that are safe for all trick or treaters.”

Here are some non-candy ideas to put on your Halloween buying list:

• Glow sticks, bracelets or necklaces

• Halloween pencils and erasers

• Stickers

• Mini notepads

• Bubbles

• Bouncy balls

Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month this OctoberCelebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month this October

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (known as NDEAM). It’s a time to highlight the important role that people of all abilities play in the workforce. Summit DD believes that employment opportunities for people with disabilities ensures a diverse workforce and helps strengthen communities – now and into the future.

Summit DD works year-round to build relationships with community partners that promotes equity and opportunity for people with developmental disabilities. Some of our employmentrelated initiatives and partnerships include:

• Summer Youth Work Program helps teens gain on-the-job work experience

• Transition-age job exploration programs at local high schools prepare teens for their futures

• Our Summit County Employment Collaborative helps employers and jobseekers with disabilities prepare, find and fill open positions

• Free inclusion training for local organizations helps businesses support their employees of every ability

Take the next Step

Wondering how you can make an impact? Visit SummitDD.org to schedule free trainings, connect to job seekers learn about programs and meet people who are already making a difference in their communities.

For children with special needs, try this sensory-friendly trick-or-treat outing.

Zoothing Boo at the Zoo. The Akron Zoo will open an hour early for people with different abilities who don’t like crowds or loud noises to trick-ortreat. Tickets are separate from general admission Boo at the Zoo. October 29, 9:30-10:30 a.m. akronzoo.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF AKRON ZOO

EDUCATION & STEM EXPO

Education & STEM Expo 2022 were co-presented by Ohio’s 529 Plan & Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine in September

OCTOBER CA lenDAR

Find more events at NortheastOhioParent.com

Have YourFill With Fun!

TUESDAYS

Kids Kitchen. The Greater Cleveland Foodbank teaches kids about delicious, healthy snacks. 2:30-3:15 p.m. Rice Branch Library, 11535 Shaker Blvd., Cleveland, cpl.org

pick - a - day

SUNDAYS

Family FUNday. Family-friendly games, movement-based activi ties, art, and more. First Sunday of the month. 1-4 p.m. Community Arts Center, West 25th St., Cleve land, clevelandart.org

Mentor Marsh Family Hike. Come explore the forest. 2-3:30 p.m. Cleveland Museum of Natural History, The Carol H. Sweet Nature Center, 5185 Corduroy Road, Mentor, cmnh.org

MONDAYS

Sing and Swing: Rhythm Kids. Drumming, games, rhythm patterns and singing for ages 4-8. Through 11/14. 4-4:45 p.m. The Music Settlement, 2610 Detroit Ave., Ohio City, themusicsettlement.org

Campus Life: Teens. Food, games and conversations about things that matter to teens. 6:30-8:30 p.m. That Place for Teens, 1480 Pearl Road, #10, Brunswick, thatplace4teens.com

Taco Tuesday. Make your own tortillas and fillings in this hands-on class. 6-7 p.m. Lo rain Public Library, 351 W. Sixth St., lorainpubliclibrary.org

10/14-23

The Amazing Lemonade Girl. You’ll be inspired by Alex, one amazing girl who just wanted to help other kids like her. One kid. One cup at a time. Magi cal Theatre Company, 565 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton, magicaltheatre.org

Alice in Wonderland Escape Room. Work together to solve the mysteries that will help you escape Alice’s topsy turvy world. Through 11/7. 6:30 p.m. Kent Free Library, 312 W. Main St., kentfreelibrary.org

MONDAY

& TUESDAY

Funday Group. Designed to help 8-11 year olds manage their social skills. Times vary. The Center for LifeSkills, 6325 Cochran Road, Solon, center4lifeskills.com

TUESDAYS

It’s My Business:Teens. Practice design thinking and experience the first steps of starting a business. 4-5 p.m. Noble Neighborhood Branch Library, 2800 Noble Road, Cleveland, heightslibrary.org

TUESDAY

& THURSDAY

After School Teen Program. A place to decompress, have a meal and play some games. 2:45-5 p.m.

That Place for Teens, 1480 Pearl Road, Brunswick, thatplace4teens.com

THURSDAYS

Family Archery. Learn about equipment, proper technique, and safety, and work on your skills. 10/13 & 20. 5-6:30 p.m. Sippo Lake Park, Exploration Gateway, 5712 12th St., Canton, starkparks.com

FRIDAYS

Friendship Fridays. Ages 3-8 learn to play and make friends. 9-11 a.m. Above All Therapy, 5425 Warner Road, Suite 3A, Valley View, abovealltherapy.com

HomeSchool Skate. Exciting and beneficial form of recreation for home school children. 10/4-12/16. 10:30 a.m.-Noon. Mentor Ice Area, 8600 Munson Road, mentoricearena.com

day - by - day

10/1-31

Inktober. A month-long celebra tion of drawing. Every day in Octo ber, draw something new. Mentoron-the-Lake Branch Library, 5642 Andrews Road, mentorpl.org

10/6

Family Engineering Night. Fun, friendly engineering competition that challenges their STEM skills. 6:30-7:30 p.m. North Ridgeville Branch Library, 37500 Bainbridge Road, lorainpubliclibrary.org

10/8

Disney Junior Live: Costume Palooza. Brings together Disney Junior characters and Marvel Su per Heroes. 4 p.m. Connor Palace at Playhouse Square, 1615 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, playhousesquare.org

Slay Saturdays: Hairstyles and Hair Care. Grades 6 and up learn and share simple tips for styling and care. 3-4 p.m. Akron Public Library, 60 High St., akronlibrary.org

Acting Club. Learn acting tips and make books come alive. Grades 3-5. Fairview Park Branch Library, 21255 Lorain Road, cuyahogalibrary.org

October CALENDAR

10/11

Anne of Green Gables. Calling all kindred spirits - make your own story journal. 6-8 p.m. Geauga West Library, 13455 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, divi.geaugalibrary.net

10/12

ACT Strategy Session. Learn in sider secrets designed to improve your score. 7-8 p.m. Twinsburg Public Library, 10050 Ravenna Road, twinsburglibrary.org

10/13

Creative Writing for Homeschoolers. Nature will serve as your inspiration. Ages 8-12. 2-3:15 p.m. Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Ctr., medinacountyparks.com

Wild Things Meet and Greet. Meet one of the “Wild Things” from Mau rice Sendak’s classic story Where the Wild Things Are. 2-3 p.m. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., alpl.org

10/15

Family Fun Fest. Fun fishing event for children and families. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, Cuyahoga Hts., clevelandmetroparks.com

Dinosaurs Rock! Kids entering grades K-5th can become a pa leontologist for the day. 2:30-3:30 p.m. Kirtland Public Library, 9267 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland, kirtland.lib.oh.us

Bug Zoo. Hands-on fun with those 6-legged critters that rule the world. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Medina County District Library, 210 S. Broadway St., mcdl.info

Blue’s Clues & You. An epic new adventure that will have every clued-in family singing, dancing, hugging, laughing, and figuring out Blue’s Clues with Clue, her friends, and of course, YOU! 2 p.m. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron, akroncivic.com

10/16

The Peking Acrobats. The grav ity-defying, juggling, gymnastic, cyclists are back to thrill and entertain. 6 p.m. Connor Palace at Playhouse Square, 1615 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, playhousesquare.org

10/17

Financial Aid Overview. Learn the basics of accessing and maximizing financial aid. 6:308:30 p.m. Euclid Public Library, 631 E. 222nd St., euclidlibrary.org

10/20

Self-Discovery and Assess ment. Learn how to find your true calling and if you have hidden talents, skills and abilities to uncover. Teens and school-aged children. 6-8 p.m. Willoughby Public Library, 30 Public Square, we247.org

10/21

Mess Makers at the Akron Art Museum. Learn, play and explore creation stations for the messiest kids. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 1 S. High St., akronartmuseum.org

Barn Sleepover Movie Night. Games, snacks, crafts, a movie and more. 6 p.m.-10 a.m. Bitter sweet Stables, 1050 Eggleston Road, Aurora,

10/22

Family Fun Loop: All Aboard Furry Friends. Builders will get a mystery animal to bring to life with step-by-by instructions. 1:55 p.m. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, Peninsula Station, cvsr.org

10/25

Teen Open Mic: Your Time to Shine! Let your voice be heard through the power of poetry and the spoken word. 4-5 p.m. Memorial Nottingham Branch Library, 17109 Lake Shore Blvd., Cleveland, cpl.org

10/27

Teach Me to Play. Your child will enjoy playing with other children while practicing language and social skills. Ages 3-6. Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, westlakelibrary.org

10/29

Jungle Terry. See and meet animals close-up with Jungle Terry. 2-3 p.m. Keystone-La Grange Branch Library, 101 West St., LaGrange, elyrialibrary.org

10/30

Medina Railroad and Toy Show. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Medina County Fairgrounds, 735 Lafayette Road, Medina, medinacountyfair.com

11/1

Learning Lunchbox: Dinosaur Take Home Kit. Make your own model fossils, excavate one of them, and even document a REAL fossil! Cleveland Heights-Univer sity Heights Public Library, heightslibrary.org

11/2

Become a Paleontologist. Work to put dinosaur skeletons togeth er, dig for dinosaurs, and learn about what paleontologists do. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Barberton Public Library, 602 W. Park Ave., barberton.lib.oh.us

PICK-A-DAY

MONDAYS

PARENT & CHILD Activities

reading skills and more. 6-7 p.m. Cuyahoga Falls Library, 2015 Third St., cuyahogafallslibrary.org

MONDAY & WEDNESDAY

Stroller Strides at Crocker Park. A functional, total-body conditioning workout designed for moms with kids in tow. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Westlake, crockerpark.com

Cuentos en español-Stories in Spanish. Hear stories, dance and play with friends. 6:30 p.m. Through 12/6. Morley Library, 184 Phelps St., Painesville, morleylibrary.org

Stories and More! Enjoy books, rhymes, and songs with your child. 10:15 a.m. North Hill Branch Library, 183 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Cuyahoga Falls, akronlibrary.org

Baby & Me Story Time. Interactive session using songs, rhymes, pup pets and musical instruments. 10 a.m. Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., wadsworthlibrary.com

Storytime Stars. Stories, songs and a craft for ages 5 and under. Through 11/14. 10:30 a.m. West River Branch Library, 1194 W. River Road N., Elyria, elyrialibrary.org

Toddler Tales. Songs, fingerplays and books for ages 2-3 with an adult. 10:30 a.m. Kent Free Library, 312 W. Main St., kentfreelibrary.org

Bookworms. Children in kin dergarten and first grade and their caregivers are invited to join this book club to practice

Family Story Time. Fingerplays, music and crafts. Through 11/30. 9:30, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., alpl.org

MONDAY & THURSDAY

Preschool Story Time. Stories, songs, dance and more. 10 a.m. Through 11/14. Peninsula Library, 6105 Riverview Road, peninsulalibrary.org

TUESDAYS

Family Storytime. Stories, music and fun for ages 0 to 6. 11 a.m. Ad ministrative Center Branch Library, 12701 Ravenwood Dr., Chardon, divi.geaugalibrary.net

Family Fun Storytime. Toe-tap ping, hand-clapping good time of stories, songs and rhymes. 11:30 a.m., 6 & 7 p.m. Euclid Public Library, 631 E. 222nd St., euclidlibrary.org

WEDNESDAYS

Waddlers Storytime. Stories, songs, and rhymes for active walkers through 24 months old. Through 12/14. 11:15 a.m. Amherst Public Library, 221 Spring St., amherst.lib.oh.us

Fall Baby & Me. Snuggle up for a lapsit program of stories, songs, and rhymes. 6:15 and 7:15 p.m. Rocky River Public Library, 1600 Hampton Road, rrpl.org

SELECT WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS

Seiberling Explorers. Kids, ages 3-6, with an adult enjoy interactive adventures. 10:30 a.m. Through 10/29. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, stanhywet.org

THURSDAYS

Wee Ones Storytime. Stories, songs, rhymes and playtime. Through 12/8. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Bar berton Public Library, 602 W. Park Ave., barberton.lib.oh.us

Wee Read and Play. Stories, active songs, rhymes and time to play. 11-11:30 a.m. Union Branch Library, 3463 E. 93rd St., Cleveland, cpl.org

My Family Storytime. Introduce your littlest darling to books, boun cy rhymes, and musical beats. 10:30 a.m. Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Rd., mcdl.info

Willowick Storytime. Entertaining stories and activities to encourage literacy development. Through 11/17. 10 a.m. Willowick Public Li brary, 263 E. 305th St., we247.org

FRIDAYS

Story Stop. Story, songs, and dancing. 10:30-11 a.m. Noble Neighborhood Library, 2800 Noble Rd., Cleveland Heights, heightslibrary.org

Finger Paint Fridays. Bring your little one to explore their creativity. 10 a.m.-noon. Mentor Headlands Branch Library, 4669 Corduroy Road, mentorpl.org

DAY-BY-DAY

10/11

Fire Safety Story Time. Learn about fire safety and see a fire truck. 3-4 p.m. Central Branch Li brary, 320 Washington Ave., Elyria, elyrialibrary.org

10/15

Calm Kids. Come relax, meditate and explore mindfulness activities. Grades K-2 with caregiver. Warrensville Hts. Branch Library, 4415 Northfield Road, cuyahogalibrary.org

10/26

Baby Footprint Art. Bring your 0-24 month-old baby and they will stamp their feet on a pre-printed design for you to paint. Hudson Library, 96 Library St., hudsonlibrary.org

AKRON ZOO

ONGOING

Legends of the Wild. How did the jaguar get its spots? How does the Andean condor carry the sun into the sky? Learn the answers to the legends of these animals and more. 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, akronzoo.org

AKRON ART MUSEUM

11/12-2/23/23

State of the Art: Constructs. An exploration into how contempo rary art-produced all across the country and in regions outside traditional art centers-reflects the present moment. 1 S. High St., akronartmuseum.org

AKRON FOSSILS & SCIENCE CENTER

ONGOING

Creation Education Museum. Comparing and contrasting scientific models like evolution and intelligent design on the origin of

ONGOING ATTRACTIONS

CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO

ONGOING

the universe, and catastrophism and uniformitarianism models on the geologic record. 2080 S. Cleveland-Massillon Road, Copley, akronfossils.com

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM CLEVELAND

ONGOING Adventure City. This multi-level environment, consisting of cozy corners and tall overlooks, encour ages pretend play and limitless imagination. 3813 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, cmccleveland.org

CLEVELAND

BOTANICAL GARDEN

ONGOING

Costa Rica Glasshouse. Experi ence the year-round exuberance you can find only in a Central American rainforest with towering trees, ever-blooming shrubs, and more. 11030 East Blvd., University Circle, cbgarden.org

Australian Adventure. Visit koalas year-round at Gumleaf Hideout. See kangaroos and wallabies in Wallaby Walkabout, and visit Kookaburra Station for up-close animal encounters. 3900 Wildlife Way, futureforwildlife.org

GREAT LAKES

SCIENCE CENTER

ONGOING

Youth Exhibits. Feed young sci entists’ curiosity with special youth exhibits like the Polymer Funhouse, Port Polymer, and early childhood workshops. 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, greatscience.com

GREATER CLEVELAND AQUARIUM

ONGOING

Shark Gallery & Sea Tube. With 230,000 gallons of water, this impressive space features three species of sharks, stingrays, eels and many other species of fish. 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, greaterclevelandaquarium.com

HOLDEN ARBORETUM ONGOING

Murch Canopy Walk and Kalberer Emergent Tower. A 500-foot-long elevated walkway that’s 65 feet above the forest floor and a tower 12 stories tall provide a breathtaking view. 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, holdenarb.org

MALTZ MUSEUM OF JEWISH HERITAGE

OPENING 10/26

This Light of Ours. Features works by nine activist photographers who documented the clash be tween institutionalized discrimi nation and determined resistance by activists and volunteers. 2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood, maltzmuseum.org

STAN HYWET HALL & GARDENS ONGOING

Entertaining: You’re Invited. Showcasing how the estate was used as an event space, with a deep dive into the types of parties and events that were held there, and who attended. 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, stanhywet.org

GAMES TO PLAY WITH YOUR FAMILY

8

(TOP) SARA AND HER DAUGHTER REAGAN AT

BACKSTAGE, BEFORE SHOW,

CONTEST.

Ilike to have fun... I mean who doesn’t? But it wasn’t until I met Len Howser, my co-host of “Len and Sara” at 95.5 The Fish, that I felt compelled to up my game as the “fun parent.” I mean cause admit it, we all want to be the “fun parent.” Len and I hosted the morning show together for eight years now and during those times I’ve learned a lot about incorporating “fun” into things. I’ll be honest sometimes it doesn’t come naturally but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t push yourself out of your comfort zone to try new fun things.

One of the best things I’ve learned is the joy that comes from doing your own family games. They can be for big family get-to gethers, fun for a family dinner, or to jazz up an outing you and your family are having.

The last concert Len and I were working at, I brought my daughter Reagan, 11. We had some time backstage so instead of just hanging out, which admittedly is cool on its own, Len challenged her to a game. Who ever took the best “artsy” backstage photo before the concert won. My daughter loved it and it was just enough fun to carry us over to concert time.

Here’s eight ideas that Len and I have for your whole family:

1. Play Charades. Don’t buy charades, make up your own charades and make them unique and outside of the box - “You are a popcorn kernel popping,” “You are an astronaut on the moon and you trip on a rock,” “Suddenly you are magnetic.”

2. Restaurant short-term memory game. Hand your family the menu or have them look over a promotional flier. Give them

a minute. Then quiz them on the details.

“What is Tuesday’s Special?” “What kind of pie was pictured on the dessert menu?” or “What year was the restaurant founded?”

3. Phone photo contest. Everyone takes a photo and uses whatever filters they like. The person with the most unique, professional, and “artsy” photo wins. Vote by committee or choose a stranger as a judge.

4. Pretzel challenge. Nibble the outside of a pretzel all the way around without it breaking.

5. Set a world record. Pretend you are setting a world record. Balance things, toss and catch something across the room 100 times without dropping. Just set a big goal and go for it. Don’t quit until you make it (Len challenged me to balance an egg on a table once and I did it).

6. Make up a jingle. One person picks an object in the room. Another person has to make up a jingle that goes at least 20 seconds (my family loves this one).

7. Counting flags. Next time you’re on a road trip, whether short or long, tell your kids to look at all the houses and count the American flags. Whoever counts the most wins.

8. I SPY. When you go on vacation (cruising, resort, etc., find one person the first day, normally while we’re in line, and count how many times we see them throughout the week. Whoever counts the most wins.

Have fun, be creative — and always feel free to put your own spin on these or create your own.

SARA CARNES

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY SARA CARNES