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toDAY S FAMIlY September 2016

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Lake & Geauga

What politics can teach children

BRIDGING THE GAP The many beneďŹ ts of

DANCE Program helps Broadmoor students excel in the workplace

Make every day Grandparents Day

Cleveland Orchestra

Offers programs for entire family

In This Issue

Sunday September 25th 2016

LEARN TO DANCE

Family Fall Fest

Dance provides benefits for kids and adults!

Pages 9–11

Chesterland Location Only 12265 Chillicothe Rd. • Chesterland • 440-729-2122

• Hot Air Balloon Launch • Hay Rides • Food • Jungle Terry Show • Magic by Rick Smith Jr. • Face Painting • Euclid Beach Rocket Car Rides • Pumpkin Painting & Much More!

Extraordinary Fall Savings at our other locations CONCORD - 7954 Painesville Ravenna Rd. • 440-357-0906 CLEVELAND HEIGHTS - 13410 Cedar Rd. • 216-932-0039

4 Cleveland Orchestra

Attracting younger audiences with educational programs

5 LEEPing towards new futures

Broadmoor School preparing students for the workplace

6 Mommy Chronicles

Adventures are the best way to learn

www.bremec.com

7 Bridging the distance gap

5 ways to make every day "Grandparent's Day"

12 Fall Harvest Weekends

September 24–October 16 at Lake Metroparks Farmpark

Saturday, September 10th 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.

Kiwanis Recreation Park 301 Latimore St.

13 Does your family have a disaster plan?

September is National Emergency Preparedness Month

14 Cleveland Museum of Natural History

Free Pony Rides for the Kids!

Free Canoe Rides on the Pond!

DEK Hockey Demonstrations Disc Golf Demonstrations Fun Family Games Hoop Skills Challenge Free Samples from Mr. Chicken!

More!

Opens new outdoor wildlife center

17 What politics can teach our kids

Turn the craziness into a learning experience

21 Family Health

Join the Fun!

9 natural ways to boost your child's immune system

22 Calendar

Call 392.5912 for more information www.painesville.com/recreation facebook.com/pvillerecreation

A listing of great family fun activities

Inspired by the

National Parks QUILT SHOW September 21–October 5 at Lake Metroparks Farmpark

toDAY'S FAMIlY P.O. Box 7316, Eastlake, Ohio 44097

www.todaysfamilymagazine.com info@todaysfamilymagazine.com (440) 953-2999 Publisher Kim Miller editor Dan Miller

Writers Deanna Adams Christa Melnyk Hines Christina Katz Laura Lytle Kim McCloskey Stacy Turner

Advertising Kim Miller Graphic Design Dawn Miller

Tuesday–Sunday 9 am to 5 pm Regular admission applies

Quilt Vendors September 24 & 25

Partial project funding generously provided by

The opinions expressed in this magazine do not constitute an endorsement by the Today’s Family Magazine® staff or our advertisers. All contributors and advertisers assume responsibility and liability for the accuracy of statements and claims in advertisements and press releases. All readers assume responsibility for actions or decisions they may make as a result of reading this publication. We reserve the right to refuse any advertising. Submission of articles does not guarantee publication.

Copyright 2016, Direct Market Publishing, LLC., All rights reserved. today’s Family Magazine is distributed free of charge for families living in and around eastern Lake and Geauga counties.

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Responsibility, Loyalty, Consideration Driven by over 125 years of excellence in boys’ education, University School opens doors to exciting possibilities, to new ways of thinking, and to enduring relationships that will stand the test of time.

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Cleveland Orchestra attracting young audiences with educational programs

By Kim McCloskey

I

t is ninety-eight years in the making. It’s one of the first American orchestras heard on a radio broadcast. It is considered one of America’s “Big Five”, in league only with New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Boston. It is recognized as one of the premier orchestras in the world.

But the best thing about the Cleveland Orchestra may just be its commitment to families and young audiences.

Housed in historic Severance Hall in downtown Cleveland, the organization made national and international headlines in 2010 with the introduction of its Center for Future Audiences, designed to fund and develop interest in classical music among young people. According to Joan Katz Napoli, director of education and community programs, this comes on the coat tails of ninety plus years of education-focused programming.

“The first Cleveland Orchestra Education Concerts for Schools date back to the Orchestra’s founding,” says Katz Napoli. “The goal then (and now) was to introduce students to classical music and its relationship to the world around them by exploring the artistic, historical, cultural and social context of music; and to nurture and ‘grow’ an audience for the orchestra.”

To do this, the Cleveland Orchestra offers a variety of programs and events. Family concerts provide both children and parents the opportunity to hear live, orchestral music.

Fun, interactive presentations during PNC’s Musical Rainbow introduce children ages 3-6 to instruments, what they sound like and how they are played. Education concerts bring almost 20,000 students annually to Severance Hall, teaching them the importance of music in a way they will never forget.

“Given the lack of music and the arts in so many schools due to budget cutbacks, our field trip program

Cleveland Orchestra cellist David Alan Harrell along with a young protege at a Musical Rainbow concert. Photo by Roger Mastroianni.

is more important than ever before,” says Katz Napoli. “For many children today, school field trips are the first (and often only) opportunity to see and hear live orchestral music by one of the world’s top orchestras.”

Betty Wallis, third-grade teacher at Willo-Hill Christian School in Willoughby, has taken several classes to the Cleveland Orchestra educational concerts, and has used the experience in classroom teaching as well.

“It’s incredibly beneficial to expose students to the whole ambiance of the Orchestra,” says Wallis. “The architecture of Severance Hall, the sound of a live orchestra, it provides a cultural experience that most of us – adults and children – don’t often see.”

Why does the organization put so much emphasis on families and young audiences? According to Katz Napoli, music is critical to a child’s growth.

“There is a large body of research now that documents the connection between music and learning, including the increased number of neural pathways that are physically created in the brain when children are

actively engaged in music. Students who participate in the arts outperform those who do not on virtually every measure.”

In addition to concerts and events, the orchestra also offers training for teachers and parents, providing the tools they need to integrate music into classroom or home environments.

“Our PNC Grow Up Great program in Cleveland preschools empowers pre-K teachers through regular training sessions and highquality resources to use music in their classrooms,” explains Katz Napoli. “ We also have workbooks and coloring books for families with young children and of course CDs and books in our Cleveland Orchestra Store.”

Upcoming events include the Halloween Spooktacular: Superman at the Symphony, Oct. 30 as well as Musical Rainbow concerts “The Fantastic Flute” October 28-29, and “The Velvet Violin,” November 18 and 19. All concerts are free for children under the age of 18.

For more information on upcoming concerts and family events, visit www.clevelandorchestra.com.

Exclusively online at www.TodaysFamilyMagazine.com!

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SEPTEMBER2016

Archived Articles Family News

LEEPing towards new futures

Broadmoor School program teaches vocational skills for life after high school

By Laura Lytle

learning new skills this school year.

He is a fan favorite on the Broadhe Lake Employment Ex- moor Bobcats with his steals and perience Program (LEEP) breakaway layups. at Broadmoor School is Melissa enjoyed working with a vital component of the transition people at her job but is happy to plan in each students’ individual see her friends at school. Melissa education plan (IEP) created by the is a high scorer for the Bobcats and Lake County Board of Developmen- strong line of defense for the team. tal Disabilities/Deepwood. Each Nick and Melissa are also a part IEP at Broadmoor is coordinated of LEEP Artworks, a micro business with the student’s home school started with the help of a volunteer. district to include vocational, daily Students collect crayons, then use living and travel skills needed for hair dryers and heat guns to melt success beyond high school. them on canvases to create beautiful For Nick Risko and Melissa pieces of art. Canvases are photoWelch, LEEP has opened new doors graphed and turned into greeting to their futures from the experience cards. Both the canvases and cards and skills they have gained through are sold to raise money for supplies vocational training and in their for the LEEP programs. The art academic curriculum. Transferwill be sold at the Great Lakes Mall ring from Madison School District, on September 24 during Hearts both Nick and Melissa are part of and Hands Community Day. You the undefeated Broadmoor Bobcats can contact Broadmoor anytime to basketball team and participate in purchase cards or canvases.

LEEP. On the basketball court they LEEP students not only gain have honed their skills and demonwork-life skills, but also build their strate good teamwork and leaderself-esteem, a sense of accomplishship skills––valuable skills that have ment and become valuable contribucarried over into their employment opportunities.

LEEP job trainer, Laura Kuenzig, works with each student to identify skills and interests for potential careers. After meeting with the students she turns her efforts to the community to develop team and individual job sites for the LEEP program. Many job opportunities exist where individuals can assist with Phone: 440-729-1964 general cleaning, retail work such as 8765 Mulberry Road, Chesterland sorting and hanging clothes or placing items on sales floor, manufacturing/assembly, as well as stable care Open Daily for farm animals and horticulture Sept. 17 - Oct. 30 projects which include collecting and For families to enjoy sorting seeds. spending time together having Kuenzig recruited Goodwill in creative fun in the out of doors!

Painesville as a competitive employment opportunity for Nick, and Patterson’s Farm Market Layton Physical Therapy in Madison OPEN DAILY YEAR ROUND! for Melissa. After they were hired, the job trainer taught each student Phone: 440-729-1964 the necessary skills for success on the 11414 Caves Road, Chesterland job. These skills include the actual tasks, getting along with coworkPick your own Apples, ers, accepting criticism, clocking in Pumpkins Galore, and out, transportation, appropriate Fresh Apple Cider, break time activities and what to wear to work to name a few.

Pies, Donuts & Fritters!

Nick saved $1,000 this summer from his job and looks forward to www.pattersonfarm.com

T

L-R: nick Risko, Melissa Welch, fellow Leep member Megan Beemiller and a co-worker at a dishwashing job site.

tors in our community.

LEEP is always looking for opportunities for students to learn new vocational skills and practice the skills they have. If you have a job opportunity or want more information contact Broadmoor at 440-6021000.

Broadmoor School is a part of the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/Deepwood serving students in Lake County from birth through age of 22 years.

The school offers early intervention in partnership with Crossroads, an integrated preschool, primary classes, sensory class and the LEEP program. Broadmoor School was built in 1965 as the first building of what is now known as the Lake County Board of DD/Deepwood.

For more information on vocational or habilitation services available through the Lake County Board of DD/Deepwood call 440350-5100 or visit www.lakebdd.org.

A Patient Centered Practice

A unique physical therapy clinic that specializes in chronic persistent pain using a kinder, gentler approach that never involves manipulation, medication or injections, along with exercises to maintain your body in optimal posture. These techniques do not hide symptoms, they correct the underlying cause to promote long-term solutions to your pain.

Attend a free seminar to learn a new understanding of pain, and methods of treating your own pain without drugs conducted by Tom Ockler, PT Wednesday October 19, 2016 7 Pm–9 Pm Understanding and Curing Pain without Drugs Call for reservations - Seating is limited

www.TomOcklerPT.com

36200 Euclid Ave., Ste. 5 - Willoughby, Ohio 44094

440-918-0836

• Licensed Physical Therapist • Certified EFT Practitioner • Author and Instructor of these highly effective techniques • Lake County Resident for 38 years Any prescription written for physical therapy is valid at the clinic or facility of your choice. It’s the law in Ohio.

Today’s Family magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

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mommy chronicles Adventures are the best way to learn

By Stacy Turner

Blessings Discoverto ALL

Students • Families • Teachers • Staff

Christ Centered

of ALL local schools as we begin the 2016-17 academic year!

Academic Excellence!

U Christ-centered learning in a loving environment U Nationally accredited U Kindergarten through eighth grade U Academic excellence U Joyfully serving Lake, Geauga and Ashtabula counties for over 35 years

in a loving environment open to EVERYONE!

 Grades K through 8  Full-day, 5-day Kindergarten Please join us for our annual  Low student to teacher ratio Fall Festival  High academic standards Community  Dedicated, accredited teachers Event!

6 to meet and  ProfessionalThursday, developmentOctober of curriculum exceed common5:30 core pm – 7 pm The Scholastic Book Fair will be open for  Remedial and reading browsing, shopping, drawings,math and other fun!

Great time to start looking for holiday gifts!

 Daily Religion

Come meet our staff and some of our  Technology Lab students and families!

FOOD VENDORS GAMES

 Media Center  Accelerated Reading COProgram NTESTS  Middle School Enrichment Modules  Band/Choir/Fine ArtsPR IZES  Sports

FUN Jesus in our Living.

FELLOWSHIP Jesus in our Learning.

508 Mentor Avenue • Painesville, OH 44077 508 Mentor Avenue • Painesville, Ohio 44077

440.357.7776 (across from Lake Erie College) www.OSLpainesville.org 440.289.8045

Call or email our admissions counselor, email: sdegidio@OSLpainesville.org Stephanie DeGidio at (440) 357-7776 www.oslpainesville.org sdegidio@oslpainesville.org 6

Today’s Family Magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

W

e headed out on beach adventures twice this summer; once during a festival on a hot, sunny weekend, and more recently on an overcast, rainy day. The festival was filled with music, food trucks, sand sculptures, kite flying, and hordes of people swimming and lounging in the sand.

It was summer at its quintessential best. On the cloudy day, however, we had the place to ourselves.

Instead of throngs of sunbathers, the beach was covered with birds enjoying the sound of the surf and the absence of people. My girls couldn’t resist the urge to charge through the flock, their laughter mingling with the squawking birds as both species raced along the shoreline.

The strong waves deposited many new treasures at our feet as we walked along searching the banks for items to add to our beach artwork.

We battled waves, played in the sand, picnicked under a shelter with a few other brave souls when the rain came, and made priceless memories that day. Earlier, we had debated on cancelling our trip, but in the end, figured we’d get wet at the beach, regardless of the weather, and I’m glad we decided to go. Until that moment, I had forgotten how much fun you can have at the beach on a seemingly gloomy day.

When I was a kid, we lived across the street from Lake Erie. Every summer, we’d spend countless hours -- whenever we could get an adult to supervise us -- on the beach swimming, riding waves, and collecting rocks and beach glass along the water's edge. When the weather was sunny and warm, the place would be packed with hordes of families spread out on blankets and towels to sunbathe, teens bobbing in the surf, and gangs of small kids building castles and digging holes to China.

We didn’t need to take a vacation, since our regular house served as our beach house. We didn’t need to make special plans to watch a sunset on any given evening, which was ideal, since spur-of-the-moment plans didn’t work well for our family of eight (three of which were under the age of three).

Watching the sun seem to disappear into the lake, my dad once commented that he expected to hear the sizzle when it hit the water.

But the beach wasn’t just for sunny days. When a storm passed through, it kicked up awesome waves, and we’d beg to go to the beach. We’d have to time it perfectly, rushing out between waves to get out to the deeper water. Once we made it out, we kept your eyes glued to the horizon, bobbing on lesser waves and waiting for the biggest one to body surf back to shore. One wrong move, and we’d be caught inside the wave, tumbling like a rag doll. One moment, we were on top, the next, we were unceremoniously spit out on the shore with sand in our ears, up our nose, and everywhere else. Looking back, I’m not sure why Mom let us do this. I can only assume we wore her down -- I know how hearing my two kids’ incessant “Mom? Mom? Mooom…!” drove me nuts this summer. I can only imagine how my mom dealt with all of us, working in shifts to repeatedly ask, “When can we go to the beach today, Mom?” Every day, the beach offered a new adventure. We’d swim in good or bad weather, even when the water made our lips turn blue. “It’s not bad once you get used to it,” we’d say, although no adult would venture in long enough to test this theory.

When fall came, we’d take walks on the beach, watching the water pound the shore, taunt each other with gross things that washed up or search for beach glass and driftwood. On many occasions, the walk would be cut short when someone got ‘surprised’ by a wave accidentally on purpose.

In winter, the waves froze quiet and bleak, like a lunar landscape. No matter what the weather, the beach beckoned, offering new adventures. I recently found a quote that expresses it well. “Then I realized adventures are the best way to learn.”

And even though my kids have returned to school and the opportunities for fun family adventures are now limited to weekends and prized days off school, we plan to continue seeking out these simple adventures.

Who knows what we’ll find around the next corner, down the trail, or at the shore?

Bridging the distance gap 5 ways to make every day Grandparent's Day

By Christina Katz

O

ne of the challenges of keeping kids and grandparents connected is bridging both the distance gap and the generation gap. Sometimes grandparents are silverhaired and spry and full of life and other times they are winding down into the quiet of their golden years.

Older relatives often live in retirement communities, sometimes in Florida or Arizona, and have health challenges that necessitate living in a specific climate. Aging grandparents are not usually ready or able to hop on an airplane at a moment's notice. And this means they can miss out on a lot of their grandkid's, and even their great-grandkid's, growing-up journeys.

Luckily, opportunities to stay in touch abound today. Technology can assist grandkids and grandparents in establishing and maintaining more up-close and personal relationships in ways that were not an option when parents were children.

New software with the potential to better connect families is launched all the time.

Instead of allowing grandkids and grandparents become distanced by age and proximity, take advantage of as many online options as you can.

Don't encourage elders to frown at technology and shake their heads at kids who use it. Persuade them to jump in and participate, too. Here are five tried and true ways to keep the generations in closer touch with suggestions for how to use them to create loving connections.

Share Pinterest board stories Grandparents can be terrific storytellers and compelling stories are often strengthened by the use of specific objects. Fortunately for both grandkids and grandparents, Pinterest is full of images that can communicate era, location, and mood. So when Grandpa creates a board called, "My Childhood On The Red River," you can bet he is going to have his grandkids' rapt attention. Ideas for boards might include: products that were regularly purchased, toys that were played with, locations that were traveled to, and homes that were lived in. Kids can join the fun by sharing the story of their lives in images, too. It's a great way for both generations to learn some helpful lessons about detailed storytelling.

Post a photo a day to Instagram Instagram is another program that is so easy to use that even a centenarian can safely post a

photo each day. And fortunately privacy settings and follower screening is built right into the platform. Have both grandkids and grandparents post a photo a day that tells the story of their lives.

Maybe it's a shot of the cinnamon-sugar toast they always eat for breakfast. Maybe it's an ongoing saga of the family cat or dog. No matter what they See Grandparents on page 8

READY OR NOT, HERE IT COMES! WHAT’S YOUR DISASTER PLAN?

It’s 2:10 p.m. on Thursday when you hear the emergency siren. Will your family know what to do to stay in contact? Do you have the necessary supplies to survive at

home? Would you be ready to leave your neighborhood?

ReadyLakeCounty.com is a collaborative effort to provide all residents with easy

access to online planning tools and resources, including advice on which resources are best for your family’s unique needs. Go online, Start a plan today.

Emergency planning protects your family before disaster strikes. Make a plan.

ReadyLakeCounty.com

Today’s Family Magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

7

Today's Family Taste ad 2016:today's family taste ad 2016

8/16/16

9:55 AM

Page 1

Grandparents from page 7 choose to post, sharing images is bound to bring the two photojournalists closer.

Fine wine and food. Serious Fun! ANDIAMO! Join us for the 19th Annual Taste of Little Italy & Auction Benefit Sunday September 18, 2016 2:00 - 5:00p.m. $70 in advance $75 at the door TasteofLittleItalyCleveland.com

proceeds benefit

Goblins in the garden

one's entrepreneurial gifts.

create a family Youtube page Or let your tween or teen create his or her own. The nice thing about YouTube is that it allows you to post family videos to the Internet, so they can easily be shared with far-away family. And if you don't want your videos viewed by the world at large, simply set them as "unlisted" when you post them. This way only family members with direct links you send via email or messaging can access your videos. Don't let another graduation or recital pass grandparents by. YouTube it! run an etsy shop together Does Grandma knit more baby blankets than she can give away? Or maybe she has some antiques she is ready to part with? Maybe she's taking an art class or writing her memoir. If your tween or teen has a knack for design or sales, why not let them collaborate to create an Etsy shop?

Etsy makes it easy to sell products online. Does it really matter if the entrepreneurial duo racks up a huge number of sales? Of course not.

What matters is that they have fun creating something together and maintaining it despite busy schedules. This might make a perfect summer or winter break project for your tween or teen. Or get the whole family involved and develop every-

Schedule a monthly Facetime session One of the best ways for grandkids and grandparents to stay connected is via the video-chatting program Facetime. Kids will love Facetime because it's convenient, instantaneous, and visual. And grandparents like it because they can see their grandchildren growing up before their eyes even if they cannot visit them in person as often as they would like.

As an added bonus, Facetime does not cost anything beyond a Wi-Fi connection. So let the conversations go on as long as they like. And so what if Great Aunt Tilly always puts her thumb in front of the camera viewer? Learning how to communicate that information diplomatically and lovingly is a great skill for kids to learn. After all, some day, the future will be in their technologically capable hands.

Apps less appealing to grandparents Texting - Too hard to read and too disruptive. No thanks.

Twitter - Too public. And what the heck is a tweet?

Snapchat - Too fast. Why do the images disappear so quickly?

Facebook- Oy vey. Too overwhelming and distracting.

Vine - Too annoying. Why does the video clip keep playing over and over?

Saturday, Oct. 8 Sunday, Oct. 9

Planning a Party?

Admission by the carload!

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See our party planning guide for great ideas! www.todaysFamilyMagazine.com

10am - 4pm

Click on Directory on the home page.

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leArN to DANce!

DANCE AWAY!

Learning to dance provides benefits for children (and adults)!

By Magen Corbett

T

he art of dancing has been around for ages and has grown in popularity over the years. Just look at the popular dancing shows such as Dancing with the Stars. Learning how to dance has many physical, emotional and social benefits for children and adults alike.

Dancing teaches many skills and develops many abilities that will extend to other relationships outside of the dance studio. Here are a few of the benefits of learning to dance.

Great cardio exercise Dancing is a great form of exercise for all ages. It involves a greater range of motion, strength and endurance than most other physical activities. It utilizes the entire body

and is a great form of exercise for total body fitness. It is also much more fun than traditional exercise.

Self control and cooperation Being in a dance class with other children is good for their development of self control and cooperation. In class, children will have to follow directions, learn to control their bodies and work with other kids their own age. They will learn to concentrate, memorize, control impulses and learn responsibility. teaches about different cultures Dance is a basic form of cultural expression. All cultures organize movement and rhythm into forms of dance. Children learn movement patterns as readily as they learn language. By learning different dances

children can get a peek into cultures different than their own.

Increased self-confidence and self-esteem For both children and adults dance is a highly social activity.

Studies have shown that strong social ties and socializing with friends contribute to high self-esteem.

Dancing gives you an increased chance of meeting other people with similar interests. A dance class is a community where appreciation

and positive encouragement are all around. Participants not only encourage one another in class, but one will gain a sense of accomplishment when a dance is memorized and performed such as on stage at a recital.

Strength and endurance Dance builds strength by forcing the muscles to resist against a dancer's own body weight. Many See BeneFITS OF dance on pg. 11

Dance, music and art at Rabbit Run

Express yourself and tap into your creative side by enrolling in a fine arts class or music lesson at Rabbit Run Community Arts Association.

Regardless of age or ability RRCAA has arts opportunities for everyone.

Registration for fall classes and lessons is now open with many exciting class offerings. Located in Madison, Ohio, RRCAA is a comprehensive fine arts association offering private and group instruction in all the major disciplines of the fine and performing arts.

Dance classes are available in ballet, tap and jazz from preschoolers, who just love to move, to adults looking to get back into shape. Also available are classes in hip-hop and contemporary dance. New this year is a dance class focusing on strength building and stretching for adults.

Ballroom dancing is also available and is conveniently offered on Saturday evenings. All dance classes begin the week of September 12.

Always wanted to learn to paint or draw? School-aged children may sign up soon for an introductory drawing, painting, sculpture or mixed

media class offered throughout the year on Monday evenings at the Red Bird Elementary School building in Madison.

The popular Art Club for schoolaged children meets every Thursday at the Madison Public Library at 4:30 p.m. beginning September 8.

“The Madison Matinee” Youth Chorus for grades 2 through 6 and “Untitled” Youth Chorus for grades 7–10 are energetic and educational choral experiences for youth who like to sing. The Chorus meets on Tuesday afternoons beginning September 6. Group Piano for Beginners is also available for youth grades 2–9 beginning September 19.

RRCAA provides a full range of private music instruction from beginner to advanced students in voice, brass, guitar, bass, mandolin, percussion, woodwinds, piano/keyboard/ organ, recorder, viola/violin/Suzuki violin, cello and fiddle.

For specific class information visit www.rabbitrunonline.org or call RRCAA at 440-428-5913. Rabbit Run Community Arts Association is located at 49 Park St., Madison.

Offering classes and lessons for all ages

Registration now open! for fall!

DANCE • MUSIC VISUAL ART

440-428-5913

49 Park St., Madison, OH rabbitrunoffice@windstream.net Today’s Family magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

9

learn to dance!

Spotlight Dance celebrates 22 years of movement

Gina Rosson knew from the day she put on tap and ballet shoes at the age of three, that dancing would be a big part of her life. “It inspired a passion in me that has lasted to this day,” says the creative director and owner of Spotlight Dance and Performing Arts Center in Mentor.

That passion led her to become an instructor at the young age of 14. She met Mark Rosson, a magician who was doing magic shows in area restaurants, in the early ‘80s. She and Mark began doing shows together, and soon married. Then it was off to Hollywood.

“Gina was a professional dancer, choreographer and teacher in L.A.,” says Mark, who serves as business manager of the studio. “But after awhile, she really wanted to have her own studio and wanted to return to her roots.”

In 1994, Gina opened Spotlight studio in Willoughby Hills, and five years ago, moved their studio to Mentor. Last month, Spotlight remodeled the entire facility and expanded to four large dance class rooms, making it one of the largest dance facilities in northeast Ohio. This year, they celebrated their 21st anniversary in business.

The studio offers an array of dance lessons; from jazz, tap and ballet, cheer, acro, to hip hop, break dance and musical theater.

“We love it when students are as passionate about the art of dance as I’ve always been, and plan to make it their career path,” says Gina. “But

Spotlight Competition Group

we also love to see the kids just have fun with it.

Whatever the reason they want to get into dance and perform, we give our best. This is a place for everybody, including adults.”

Many parents enroll their children in dance as a way to keep them busy, enjoy an extracurricular activity, and as a healthy form of exercise.

But there are many other benefits as well. Dance students build critical thinking skills, self-esteem, coordination, and learn the values and skills of creativity, problem-solving and risk-taking. And when the atmosphere is positive, children thrive in the environment, according to Gina.

Gina is proud that many of her former students have gone on to great success in their dance

careers—becoming professional dancers in New York, LA and beyond—such as Brandon Lefler, who is currently on Broadway; Michaela Johnson, recently featured in a Toyota commercial; and Dejan Tubic, who has become one of the most sought-after choreographers, and travels the world. “We were so honored to recently have Dejan in our studio choreographing for our students,” Gina says. “That was very special for us.”

Gina is most excited to see her students progress and develop. “We are very much a positive, motivational, uplifting studio. We want everyone to enjoy themselves, build their confidence, and we let them know how unique they are as individuals and that they matter,” Gina Says.

Mark adds that the parents are just as important to them. “We encourage them to come, stay and watch,” he says. “We have an open, family environment here, with viewing windows so parents can see the training, the progress, and there is no question about what’s going on behind that door.

That’s very important to us.”

Spotlight Dance is located at 7591 Mentor Avenue in Mentor. Fall session starts on September 6, 2016. You can register online at www. spotlightdc.com or call 440-95-DANCE.

CLASSES FOR EVERYONE:

7591 Mentor Ave., Mentor

(440) 95-DANCE

WWW.SPOTLIGHTDC.COM

CLASSES FOR STUDENTS AGES 3 YEARS TO ADULT

HIP HOP • JAZZ • TAP BALLET • POINTE COMBO DANCE (Tap, Ballet, Creative Movement) CHEER • ACRO MINI DANCE PROGRAM • LYRICAL MUSICAL THEATER • SINGING PERFORMING GROUPS

First Dance Class is FREE! New Students Only.

Annual Registration Fee Applies

Fall/Winter Session Begins Tuesday, September 6, 2016 Register online at www.spotlightdc.com or call us at 440-95-DANCE 10

Today’s Family Magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

leArN to DANce!

Benefits of dance from page 9 for all major muscle groups. Most forms of dance require dancers to perform moves that require bending and stretching, so it is easy to become more flexible simply by dancing.

Stress relief At some point and time everyone will experience stress from their everyday lives. With its freedom of music and sense of abandon, dance is a great way to relieve stress. As with any form of exercise, endorphins are released which makes us feel good and less stressed. It is also a structured outlet for physical release. styles of dance require jumping and leaping high into the air. Along with strength, dancing builds endurance, which is the ability of the muscles to work hard for increasingly longer periods of time without fatigue. As with any form of exercise, raising the heart rate can increase stamina.

Improved flexibility Dance requires a great amount of flexibility over time. Dancers strive to achieve full range of motion

No age limit Unlike some other sports, there is no age limit for dancing. People of any age can enjoy the fun of dancing.

There are many forms of dance to choose from including ballet, tap, modern, salsa, ballroom and even Zumba. There really is something for everyone and every skill level. If you are looking for a fun, rewarding activity for you or your child give a dance class a try!

School of Cleveland Ballet teaches more than dance

As a young girl Anna Soref was a dedicated tomboy. So she was surprised when her 4-year-old daughter, Chloe, begged to take classical ballet classes. While watching her prance around in her cute leotard and slippers at her first class, she never imagined that 10 years later she’d still be dancing.

Over the years, she watched as ballet class taught her daughter how to follow directions and behave in a group setting. She learned to respect teachers and offer a polite “thank you” with a curtsy after class as well as other skills she will use long after she’s hung up her ballet slippers.

The first time she saw Chloe on stage she realized just how good ballet was for her. Her acutely shy daughter waltzed on stage in front of hundreds of people beaming with confidence. She had learned her dance, practiced it repeatedly, and was proud to show what she knew.

More importantly, ballet has taught the importance and rewards of hard work. Chloe dreamt of

the day she would earn her pointe shoes. Finally, after many years, Ms. G (what students affectionately call Gladisa Guadalupe, the school’s artistic director) gave Chloe permission to get the coveted shoes and even went to her first shoe fitting!

In middle school, ballet served yet another purpose—escape from pressure and social stress—a place to lose herself in dance and relax with a second family. At Cleveland Ballet, the students and teachers are truly a family.

They offer a wide variety of classes including ballet, jazz, modern, and yoga—for all ages and adults. Visit www.ClevelandBallet.org for more information or call 216-320-9000.

Just For Laughs!

Cartoon by Jerry King

"I realize teenagers want their privacy, but was the barbed wire really necessary?

Today’s Family magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

11

Fall Harvest Weekends at lake Metroparks Farmpark Dozens of great fun activities for kids of all ages!

This fall, Lake Metroparks Farmpark will continue its long-standing tradition of celebrating the harvest season with four weekends of fall harvest activities beginning September 24 & 25 and continuing through October 15 & 16.

Each weekend features an aspect of farming and harvest, and visitors enjoy family-friendly hands-on activities that are part of Farmpark’s harvest traditions. On all weekends, little farmers can pedal their way on mini tractors through a farm maze, navigate the hay maze and play in the kids areas. Find all five Corny Olympic events located within the twists and turns of the three-acre corn maze and complete the activity posted. On some weekends, visitors can help grind apples and press cider as well as taste apple cider, apple butter and harvest soup!

At Farmpark’s Fall Harvest Weekends visitors can participate in special experiences including learning how to drive a horse, fishing at the pond

pavilion and helping hand crank and taste ice cream with different harvest flavors. Each weekend will also have a different focus on some aspect of farming and harvest. September 24 & 25 will feature the Antique Tractor Show. Have your picture taken on one of Farmpark’s antique tractors and discover how tractors were designed to power farm equipment as we grind corn and thresh grain. Local antique tractor and farm engine enthusiasts will show off their carefully restored tractors that illustrate the evolution of tractors in the 20th century. Young visitors can test their own power for tractors on our kiddie tractor pull or provide the power on a kid-powered treadmill.

Apple butter and apple cider will be the focus on October 1 & 2. Toss apples into and turn the crank on the apple press and watch apple cider come out. Sample apple cider, apple butter and a variety of apples.

Corn and pumpkins are the highlight on October 8 & 9 and 15 & 16

Pressing apples for apple cider is just one of the many activities that you can do at Fall Harvest Weekends. Photo by Earl Linaburg.

and top off the fall harvest experience at Farmpark. Help husk, shell and grind corn and see antique corn harvesting equipment in action. Play a little corn hole and make a handmade corn husk doll. Try your hand at plowing behind Farmpark’s draft horses and sample our harvest stew.

Everyone will have the opportunity to paint a pumpkin and take it home (additional fee applies).

Regular Farmpark admission ap-

Great Minds don’t Think Alike

Serving students in grades K-12 with dyslexia, ADHD, and other language-based learning differences.

www.lawrenceschool.org Broadview Heights | Sagamore Hills

440.526.0717

12

Today’s Family magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

plies. Admission: ages 12–59, $6, ages 2–11, $4, ages 60+, $5, children younger than 2, free, Farmpark members, free Lake Metroparks Farmpark is located at 8800 Euclid Chardon Road. Take I-90 to the Rt. 306 exit.

Head south on Route 306 five miles to Euclid Chardon Road (Route 6), turn left on Route 6, and head east one mile. Entrance to Farmpark is on the right.

Every family should have a disaster plan September is National Emergency Preparedness Month It’s 2:10 p.m. on Thursday when you hear the emergency siren. Will your family know what to do to stay in contact if you are not together?

Do you have the necessary supplies to survive at home? Would you be ready to leave your neighborhood?

If you don’t have an answer, then you’re probably like most individuals and families. You know you should prepare for an emergency, have some supplies at home, but you also know there are agencies available to help you… so you’ve put off creating that solid plan and emergency kit.

The truth is – you should not wait!

As September begins National Preparedness Month, the Lake County Emergency Management Agency and Local Emergency Planning Committee encourage you to join “Ready Lake County” and commit to taking action, discussing a family disaster plan and make (or resupply) your emergency kit.

“Disasters and large-scale emergencies, whether natural or man-made, are going to occur. Retaining a sense of community awareness, coupled with taking some simple steps to individually prepare, can go a long way in helping to reduce the impact and duration of such events. Our new Reverse 911 system for Lake County is a substantial leap forward in our ability to get critical information to Lake County residents in a timely manner,” said

Larry Greene, director of Lake County EMA. “We continue to stay ahead of the curve in our plan to manage potential emergencies––the new Reverse 911 system will ensure our residents will have speedy access to the latest information, if and when an emergency strikes. It’s equally important residents have their own emergency plan as well,” added Greene.

Any family can be emergency ready by the end of September if they can do these simple things (one per week).

1. Create a disaster plan. Think about what disasters/emergencies are most likely to happen in your community and discuss a plan for each situation like where you would meet if you are separated and how you would stay in touch or let others know you’re okay. Review and practice your plan as a family at least once per year. Keep in

mind that telephones and cell phones may not be working.

2. Have a disaster supply kit. In addition to basics like extra food, fresh water and medical supplies or medications, consider other needs of people in your family including comfort items for infants and young children.

If the task of building your disaster kit seems daunting, consider buying a few extra supplies each week and over a short time, your kit will be complete.

3. Have a plan for pets & seniors/homebound.

Dogs, cats and other pets will also require food, water and special supplies such as leashes, pet carriers if you need to evacuate and back up electricity for fish tanks.

Seniors and persons with physical or medical disabilities will need to evaluate if they need support during a disaster. Disabled persons that live alone should have a personal support network that will check in on them to ensure they’re okay or help if they need assistance. Copies of relevant emergency documents, health information and medications should be included in a disaster kit.

4. Know who & when to call for help. Be aware of local resources for emergency shelters, evacuation transportation, heating/cooling centers, See emergency preparedness on page 15

KEEP KIDS SAFE! Your home can make a difference Foster homes give children safety, security and supervision.

You can help protect children from abuse or neglect by providing a caring environment for them until they can return to their parents or be adopted by a foster parent.

Call LCDJFS to learn more about becoming a foster parent.

Call the Foster Care line:

440-350-4218 440-918-4218

Lake County Department of Job and Family Services Today’s Family Magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

13

cleveland Museum of Natural History opens innovative new outdoor wildlife center The Cleveland Museum of Natural History will open the doors to a world of discovery when it unveils its dynamic new outdoor wildlife center on Saturday, September 3.

The Ralph Perkins II Wildlife Center & Woods Garden is an innovative two-acre outdoor gallery showcasing live native Ohio animals and plants.

It connects visitors to nature through an exploration of five ecological habitats. The center is the first visitor experience to come to life as part of the museum’s centennial expansion and renovation project that will transform the museum for its 100-year anniversary.

Designed according to standards of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Ralph Perkins II Wildlife Center & Woods Garden is a vibrant and enriching home to the museum’s living collection of wildlife and plants. Aerial trailways allow bobcats, foxes, coyotes and raccoons to traverse above visitors. Elevated walkways place visitors in the canopy of beech and oak forests providing stunning views of wildlife, foliage and Cleveland’s skyline.

Visitors will experience up-close animal encounters. The native Ohio animals showcased in the center have come from rehabilitation or rescue centers. They were injured or orphaned and unable to survive in the wild.

Artist rendering of the overhead bobcat trailway at the new Perkins Wildlife Center.

The Ralph Perkins II Wildlife Center & Wood Garden features: • Native Ohio animals – 40 mammals (bobcats, foxes, coyotes, river otters, raccoons, porcupine, groundhog) and 60 birds, including songbirds, eagles, falcons, owls and other birds of prey • Overhead trailways - Bobcats, coyotes, foxes and raccoons can climb above visitors and pursue their natural curiosity • Wetlands - A 50-foot-long curving acrylic wall offering panoramic underwater views into the otter pool where visitors can watch the playful acrobatics of North American river otters and see a wetland community teeming with fish, turtles and frogs

• Elevated walkways - Visitors can look down on the coyote, fox, bobcat and porcupine exhibits while viewing colorful songbirds • Songbird Aviary – Vibrant songbirds fill the forest canopy with song and color • Eagle Experience - An aviary showcasing bald and golden eagles • Raptor Center - A stable housing birds of prey with viewing bays where visitors can see the wildlife specialists caring for the birds The museum’s centennial transformation project will reinvent the museum’s campus for its 100year anniversary in 2020. The multiyear project is designed to create powerful and engaging experiences that will capitalize on the resources of the world-renowned institution and fulfill its mission of inspiring a passion for science and nature for generations to come.

The Ralph Perkins II Wildlife Center & Woods Garden is free with museum general admission.

Admission fees are: $15 adults; $10 ages 3-18, college students with valid ID and seniors over age 60; free for children 2 and under. Admission Wednesdays after 5 p.m. is $7. Shafran Planetarium shows are $5 with general admission.

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is located at 1 Wade Oval Drive in University Circle.

Visit www.cmnh.org for more info.

COMMUNITY ◆ CREATIVITY ◆ DIVERSITY ◆ GLOBAL AWARENESS ◆ LEADERSHIP

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, October 16 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.

$1,000 tuition discount drawings will be held Please register online at www.andrewsosborne.org or by calling Admissions at 440-942-3600 Andrews Osborne Academy is a private, co-ed college preparatory day and boarding school for Pre-Kindergaten through 12th grade.

38588 Mentor Avenue | Willoughby, OH 44094 440-942-3600 | www.andrewsosborne.org 14

Today’s Family magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

10 reasons to choose Cleveland Clinic Children’s When your children are sick, you do whatever it takes to make them better.

So does Cleveland Clinic Children’s – even for kids with Giovanni Piedimonte, MD the most critical or complex diseases.

“Standout subspecialty experts from around the nation work here to enhance care for local children with exceptional medical needs,” says Giovanni Piedimonte, MD, physician-in-chief of Cleveland Clinic Children’s.

More than 300 pediatric medical and surgical specialists care for infants, children and adolescents at Cleveland Clinic Children’s main campus as well as at regional hospitals and family health centers in northern Ohio.

Why choose Cleveland Clinic Children’s?

1. One of the “Best Children’s Hospitals.” U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks Cleveland Clinic Children’s among the top in the nation.

2. Exceptional heart care. The congenital heart program is top-ranked by U.S. News & World Report in northern Ohio, with nearly 20 cardiologists and surgeons who treat the most complex heart conditions.

3. One of the top pediatric gastroenterology programs in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report.

4. One of the top pediatric neurology and neurosurgery pro-

grams in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report.

5. Advanced cancer care. The Pediatric Cancer Center is a leading center for clinical trials through the Children’s Oncology Group.

6. The only comprehensive pediatric transplant center in northern Ohio, offering transplants for heart, lung, liver, kidney, pancreas, small bowel and bone marrow.

7. Only special delivery unit in the U.S. staffed simultaneously

by OB-GYN and NICU teams able to manage deliveries with high risk for the mother and/or the newborn.

8. Dedicated pediatric dialysis unit. It’s the only one in northern Ohio affiliated with a fullservice transplant center.

9. One of the largest post-acute rehabilitation facilities for children in the U.S., caring for children with autism, ADHD, and other behavioral and developmental disorders.

10. Unique multidisciplinary programs for the care of medically complex children with rare conditions like chronic pain (only CARF-accredited center in the world), glycogen storage disease, and neuro-cardiac syndromes.

To make an appointment at Cleveland Clinic Children’s, call 216.444.KIDS. Same-day appointments are available.

Article submitted by Cleveland Clinic.

Emergency preparedness from page 13 utility services, emergency pet services and health/wellness services for family members with unique medical needs and seniors.

Lake County residents may sign up for the new Reverse 911 system by logging onto: https://lakecounty ohio.onthealert.com.

ReadyLakeCounty.com has resources for you to easily access local agencies and basic information on

how to create a disaster plan, build an emergency supply kit, prepare for pet needs, and identify which agencies are best for your unique emergency needs.

More information on disaster planning can be found on www.

ReadyLakeCounty.com––the one source for everyone to easily access local agencies and resources, or by calling 2-1-1.

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SEPTEMBER2016

15

KICK OFF THE SCHOOL YEAR!

Lil Kickers

FUN! FRIEN DS! FITNESS! Child Development Program

• Innovative, popular child development program • Focus is on kids from 18 months to 8 years • Classes run 50 minutes per session once a week • Sign up early to lock in your preferred class time • 12-week fall session begins early September

Call to sign up today!

Call Dan at 440-602-4000 ext. 229

Lil Sluggers • Introduction to baseball for kids from 2–5 years of age • Nationally franchised child development program; exclusive location in NE Ohio • Next session will be in the fall starting September 9 and 10th of 2016 • Low student/instructor ratio (usually 4–6 kids per instructor)

Call Dave Boyza at (440) 364-4812

YOUTH INDOOR BASEBALL LEAGUE

LNSP is accepting registration for our popular off-season youth indoor baseball league for kids from ages 7-13.

• Age Divisions: • 8 & under • 10 & under • 13 &under • 8-game regular season, plus playoffs • Session #1 runs from Oct. 14 thru Dec. 23 • Games played on Friday nights between 5-8 PM and Sunday mornings between 7 AM - Noon • Team fee of $735; Individual fee of $80

Contact Ed Strauss at (440) 602-4000 ext 225 or EStrauss@LNSPORTSPARK.com

www.LNSPORTSPARK.com

38630 Jet Center Drive

North of Route 2 off Lost Nation Road

Willoughby

16

Today’s Family magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

Youth Aviators Fall Basketball NFL Flag Season runs from Football September 13th thru late October November 5th thru January 7th

Games played on Tuesday & Thursday Nights 10 Game Season

Boys Divisions: 5th/6th & 7th/8th 12-game guarantee Saturdays from 2-7pm Call Bob at 440-488-4809 or Call eddie at Eddie at 440-602-4000 ext. 225 440-602-4000 ext. 225 Ages 5-14 yrs old

SOCCER 101 Soccer 101 is the “next step” in our youth soccer program. Targeted at kids ages 6-9, Soccer 101 includes both soccer foot skills training with small-sided soccer games. The emphasis is on FUN, coupled with an introduction to competition by playing some team matches. All teams will be coached by current and/or former soccer players.

• Fall session starts in September!

•12-week fee of $150, plus $15 registration fee

Contact Danny at (440) 602-4000 ext 236 or danny.bartulovic@LNSPORTSPARK.com

Birthday Parties

Combine your child’s favorite sports activity with a complete birthday party package!

Call Marilyn at 440-602-4000, ext. 223 for details!

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What politics can teach our kids

By Christa Melnyk Hines

make it fair if you were president?"

rom yelling newsroom pundits and vigorous dinner party debates to divisive Facebook exchanges, tis' the season when there's virtually no escape from politics. Your kids may come home with questions about opinions overheard at school or elsewhere. From a parenting perspective, the democratic process––and political shenanigans–– provides plenty of fodder for teaching kids lessons in independent thinking, respectful discourse, values and civics.

Avoid anger. As hard as it may be, try to refrain from making judgmental comments or calling candidates with whom you disagree colorful names.

"Shouting at the TV, or at one another, presents a very negative example of responding to conflicting opinions," says Mary Jane McKittrick, author of the "Boomer and Halley" children's series (written for ages 4 to 8), including the Mom's Choice award-winning book, "Boomer and Halley: Election Day." Through humor and embedded life lessons, McKittrick's books tell stories of families and communities resolving difficult challenges by working together.

Model respectful dialogue.

Not all parents agree on politics, but what matters is how they discuss the issues in front of their children without raising a child's anxiety. Make ground rules with your spouse before engaging in the discussion. No interrupting, take turns listening and no put-downs, insults or blaming. And, if you come to an impasse, agree to disagree.

"I would love for parents to respect each other's point of view. I would also hope that they will respect their children's point of view," Walfish says. "Be able to tolerate differences.

We still love each other, and I can tolerate you having powerfully different feelings than mine."

If you find yourself getting drawn

F

Nurture independent thinkers. Take advantage of the political process to help your children learn to think for themselves. Ask your children open-ended questions to hear their point of views.

"Find out what they're thinking.

What you want to do is stimulate their analytic, natural human curiosity," says Dr. Fran Walfish, a child and family psychotherapist and author of "The Self Aware Parent: Resolving Conflict and Building a Better Bond with Your Child."

Watch the speeches and debates together. Ask your child who he thinks is telling the truth based on body language or who seems more respectful during a debate.

Whether you agree or not, ask her: "Why do you feel that way? How would you solve the problem?" Share your opinions with your children by prefacing your comments with "I feel" or "I think" and ask questions like: "I wonder how he'll make that happen?

What do you think? How would you

See POLITIcS on page 18

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SEPTEMBER2016

17

IngenuityFest returns Sept. 23–25 Cleveland's festival of creativity and innovation moves to St. Clair-Superior District After spending four years on Cleveland’s lakefront, Ingenuity will be moving to the St. Clair-Superior neighborhood’s former Osborne Industrial Complex (5401 Hamilton Avenue) to host the annual IngenuityFest September 23-25, 2016. This is the first time IngenuityFest will be held outside downtown Cleveland in the organization’s history.

The move to Saint Clair-Superior signifies a continued re-imagining of Ingenuity’s role in Cleveland, and a furthering of their mission to serve Cleveland’s entire creative and artistic community, while promoting civic progress. When their work in downtown Cleveland first began, the city was ripe for re-development, with vacant space and empty storefronts abounding. Today, downtown has been significantly re-energized, and lacks the large-scale raw spaces which have defined Ingenuity’s activities. Today, they are looking to spread their impact to surrounding neighborhoods poised for a similar rebirth. Ingenuity sees the poten-

tial to take root in the Saint ClairSuperior neighborhood and have a significant impact on this emerging district, while amplifying the growing number of already existing unique maker, creative, and artistic resources.

IngenuityFest is a three-day celebration of creativity and innovation. In the past, Ingenuity has featured projects from installation art to kinetic sculpture, dance and theatre performances to technology demonstrations, and interactive maker exhibits to architecture, and everything in between. This year the former warehouse complex will be activated with a variety of artistdriven projects leading up to the IngenuityFest, significantly focused on creating a collaborative community on-site, with long-term impact on the neighborhood.

An open call for artists, creators, inventors, and experimenters to propose projects large and small is currently available online at www.

IngenuityCleveland.com.

Politics from page 17 into a heated argument around the table with loved ones, keep your cool and suggest you pick up the conversation at another time.

Play nice––in politics?! Political rhetoric may be difficult for your child to comprehend, but behavior in politics can often parallel real-life situations your child can relate to about how we should treat each other and who we can trust.

"Here we are: two political figures.

They're going to say their beliefs right out front, but wouldn't it be nice if that was all they were doing," Walfish says. "Instead what they're doing is using put-downs, criticisms, (and) willing to go forward at all costs to win."

Perhaps the vindictive nature of politics will never change, but parents can use examples of how politicians conduct themselves to teach values about what it means to win honorably, treat others with respect and be a trustworthy friend. For example, on the playground, a child might promise your child that he can have the ball next, but then passes the ball to an ally or continues to hog the ball.

Even a young child understands that the other child's actions are unfair.

"A good friend is someone who treats you right all of the time. And that's what we're looking for in politics," Walfish says. "And a lot of times people will say anything to get what they want, which is to win. Our job is to try to figure out who's telling the truth, who's going to deliver on the goods." civics 101. Talk to your kids about the democratic process. Take your child to the voting booth and follow the results on election night together to help her see the election process in action and the connection between your vote and why it matters.

Explain that politicians are public servants and they usually enter the political process in an attempt to make a difference in the lives of citizens.

"Parents can offer examples from their lives to illustrate giving to others as a positive way to explain politics," McKittrick says. "After all, politics exist in our families, communities, schools and workplaces--not just at the ballot box."

Empowering students grades K-8 with special learning needs.

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

For information about our growth plans to serve the Akron community, call 234-206-0941.

18

Today’s Family magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

corny olympics three-acre corn maze open through october 16 Show off your skills as you make your way through the through multiple twists and turns in the threeacre corn maze at Lake Metroparks Farmpark. Your challenge is to find all five Olympic events located within the maze and complete the activity posted. Stand on the corny podium and be recognized for your accomplishments and take a victory lap through the 1/4-mile loop around the maze.

A play set is located near the entrance of the maze including an assortment of farm-themed character cutouts and a two-story farmhouse play area is located in the Machinery Building. There is lots of fun in store for the kids at the new Showman’s Circle play area featuring a farm-themed playground, interactive

THE COMPLETE FAMILY EXPERIENCE

EXPERIENCE LUXURIOUS COMFORT

photo by emily Stupica

stream and animal encounter pavilion. Water shoes and/or a second pair of shoes that can get wet are recommended for the water feature.

The Corny Olympics three-acre corn maze is open 11 am to 4 pm Tuesday through Friday through October 16, weather and field conditions permitting. Call 440-256-2122 to check the conditions of the maze.

The corn maze is included with regular daytime admission which includes all Farmpark activities.

to ookials! b e c c a on Fe on spe s u t w o-da Follo p-t u y a t s

Great Lakes Stadium 16 (440) 974-4372 Diamond Center 16 (440) 352-8846 Movies • Private Party Area Midway Mall 8 Cake • Treats • Pizza • Popcorn (440) 324-2195 Lakeshore 7 For more information, (216) 731-1701 visit us online at Eastgate 10 www.ATLASCINEMAS.net (440) 460-0399 STEAM_2016_ad_TF.qxp_Layout 1 8/18/16 12:18 PM Page 1

Have Your Birthday Party at

28th annual Bug Day!

IMAGINE, EXPLORE, CREATE and TINKER!

Sunday, September 11 • noon–4 pm runs from noon to 4 pm Sunday, September 11 at Penitentiary Glen Reservation in Kirtland.

Miniature steam train rides will be offered, courtesy of the Lake Shore Live Steamers from 1 to 3 pm, weather permitting.

While at Penitenitary Glen Reservation, visit the fall art show – The Way I See It – the Nature Art of Hap Howle on display through October 16 in the Nature Center.

Browse the Nature Store for bugthemed gifts, bird feeders, t-shirts, field guides, toys, children’s books and more. Visit native Ohio animals at the Kevin P. Clinton Wildlife Center. Hike more than 8.5 miles of scenic trails, or discover the beautiful butterfly gardens.

Penitentiary Glen Reservation is located at 8668 Kirtland-Chardon Road in Kirtland. For more information about Bug Day, call 440256-1404 or visit lakemetroparks. com.

LAUREL SCHOOL’S

STEAM

InKNOWvation FESTIVAL #LS4GInKNOWvation

Activities, food and fun for Preschool through Grade 6 and their families!

Presenting Sponsor:

SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY ENGINEERING ARTS MATHEMATICS

This year’s Bug Day! celebrates cicadas, dragonflies, tarantulas, walking sticks, praying mantis, monarch butterflies, ladybugs and more! Join us as we take a closer look at these fascinating creatures through demonstrations, games, crafts, live exhibits, storytelling and family fun that will include many “buggy activities.”

Also, see all shapes and sizes of bugs on display in the Nature Center, provided by Bugs Unlimited. Together we’ll celebrate the amazing diversity and beauty of the insect world!

Kids can earn a “Bugology” degree by participating in at least five of the many activities. Children are naturally drawn to these smallest of creatures. Let’s tap into that curiosity and help them learn respect and responsibility for nature in an entertaining and educational setting.

They will have so much fun they won’t even know they are learning!

Bug Day! is free for all ages. No registration is necessary. Bug Day!

Recline, Relax and Enjoy the Show!

Atlas Cinemas introduces their guests to luxury seating with recliners at the Great Lakes Stadium 16 in Mentor.

A R H A U S®

FURNISHING A BET TER WORLD

Sunday, September 18 from 1:00 -4:00 pm One Lyman Circle Shaker Heights, OH 44122 LaurelSchool.org 216.464.0946

Dream. Dare. Do.

Today’s Family magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

19

Immunizations

Crossroads Early Childhood Services powers up statewide Whole Child Matters initiative

Immunizations work by strengthening your child’s immune system. This helps to reduce risk of serious childhood vaccine– preventable diseases.

It is easy to protect them and it doesn’t have to be expensive.

The Lake County General Health District offers childhood immunizations at a low cost.

Call us for an appointment today at 440-350-2554.

Visit www.lcghd.org for more information.

Lake County General Health District PH: (440) 350-2554 FAX: (440) 350-2956 Funded in part by the Ohio Department of Health, Bureau of Infectious Disease Immunization Program and the Federal Government.

Self-Defense for Children Self-Defense for Life Aikido–is a noncompetitive traditional Japanese martial art that focuses on blending with an opponent and using their own force against themself.

Ishiki–means awareness, this course is designed to teach children, youths and teens basic awareness of self-defense and self-protection skills. Aikido is entirely defensive and does not rely on physical strength or competition; hence, it is excellent for building children’s coordination and con�idence.

Keiko–means practice, your child willCoast learn various basic techniques to both North Aikikai, LLC. kai, LLC. defend and avoid confrontation due to an attack or bulling. In addition, they 合気会北岸 will learn etiquette and discipline in a traditional dojo atmosphere. They can apply these skills in their everyday life for years.

With the right instruction and guidance, children are able to overcome physical and emotional dif�iculties. Aikido practice helps foster skills that are needed to avoid con�lict and resolve differences in a peaceful manner.

COME JOIN US!

Family & friends discounts available. *Mention this ad and receive a FREE uniform *with paid three-month contract

Sensei LaCorte, Instructor

North Coast Coast Aikikai, Aikikai, LLC. LLC. North 合気会北岸 合気会北岸

8901 Mentor Avenue, Mentor Located inside the Family Karate O-Hana Dojo

20

Find us at: www.ncaikikai.com Contact us at: 440-255-7300 / 440-622-6485

Today’s Family Magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

Whole Child Matters, a statewide grant initiative, is taking hold at Crossroads Early Childhood Services (ECS). The initiative supports early learning environments, early childhood caregivers, educators and mental health providers through consultation services in Lake and Ashtabula counties. The goal of Whole Child Matters is to strengthen the social and emotional development of young children as they are important influences on school readiness.

Early childhood mental health consultants can provide services to early learning environments to engage at-risk children as early as possible. In addition, they provide mental health consultative services to early childhood caregivers and educators. State credentialed early childhood mental health consultants will be called into environments to provide collaborative support by promoting social and emotional development and effective responses to disruptive behaviors. Assistance and resources can also be provided to parents who have children in preschool and child care settings.

Crossroads ECS also has a master trainer who can provide trainings on such topics as: managing challenging behaviors, emotional regulation, and early childhood trauma.

Social and emotional development is tailored to every age.

What to look for––social and emotional milestones for a typical 3- year-old: • Shows concern and affection for

others without prompting • Copies adults and friends (for example, runs when other children run) • Takes turns in games • Separates easily from parents • Shows a wide range of feelings • Enjoys routines and may get upset with a major change • Dresses and undresses self • Enjoys helping with simple household tasks • Verbalizes toilet needs and may be toilet trained during the day Tips for parents to promote 3-year-old social and emotional development: • Set limits and be consistent with what your child can and cannot do; give praise for following the rules • Support your child to express feelings appropriately • Talk about your child’s emotions; encourage him/her to identify feelings of others or characters in books • Arrange play dates for your child to play with other children and help him/her include others in playing, sharing and taking turns • Help your child solve a problem when upset • Support your child to develop trust in other familiar adults To learn more about Whole Child Matters consultation and training services contact, Crossroads Early Childhood Services at 440-3587370 or visit www.crossroads-lake. org.

9 natural ways to boost your child's immune system

family health

By Christa Melnyk Hines

W

ith the flu and cold season right around the corner, try simple, natural strategies to help keep your child healthy and strong. These tips can also help the body fight illness more efficiently.

Eat from the rainbow. During cold and flu season, it's especially important to avoid non-nourishing foods which can aggravate symptoms and make it harder for the immune system to respond to illness.

"Good nutrition is essential to a strong immune system and it can offer seasonal protection from illnesses, as well as other health problems like allergies," says registered dietitian Joan Sechrist, PhD. Vaccinate. Stay current on your child's immunizations. "Immunizations in younger years can help prevent disease as kids grow into adults," Sechrist says.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that anyone over the age of 6 months get the flu vaccine, which is one of the best ways to protect your child from influenza. According to the CDC, an average of 20,000 children under the age of five are hospitalized each year due to complications from the flu.

Get adequate sleep. Kids need between 8 to 12 hours of sleep a night to help keep their bodies strong. Stick to a regular, calming evening routine. Also, power down distracting electronic devices that can interrupt sleep.

Exercise regularly. Active kids are healthier kids. Experts recommend that kids get 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Take family walks or bike rides, shoot hoops, swim at your local community center, go roller or ice skating, play hopscotch or toss a ball in the backyard.

Teach proper hand-washing.

Basic hand-washing with soap and water prevents the spread of disease.

Have your child lather for 20 seconds or say the ABCs twice. Avoid overuse of sanitizers, which destroys both good and bad bacteria on the hands.

Take probiotics. "Probiotics are fabulous in and of themselves for gut integrity," says naturopathic physician Shelly Clevidence. "For increasing the immune system, they don't have to be live." Look for probiotics in pill form or in foods. If your child is sick, avoid dairy products, which contribute to inflammation and mucus build-up.

Try castor oil. Extruded from the castor bean plant, castor oil can be rubbed on your child's belly at night when the immune system is most active, says Leah Hollon, a naturopathic physician. Castor oil, she says, is both anti-cancer and an anti-inflammatory.

"Castor oil is pretty amazing. We find it helps bring more white blood cells into the blood stream to help fight infection," Hollon says. "It also helps get that histamine response down for some kids that have allergies, and it helps them have a good bowel movement." Constipation issues can be worse during flu and cold season.

Consider elderberry syrup. Both Clevidence and Hollon say elderberry syrup (also available in a tincture) can help kids fight a cold or flu.

"Elderberry syrup is one of my favorites," Hollon says. "My kids love the taste of it. Probiotic, elderberry syrup is antibacterial and antiviral, a general broad spectrum support."

Elderberry has been used for centuries to treat wounds and respiratory illnesses and is thought to reduce swelling in the mucous membranes and sinuses. *Consult with your pediatrician before treating your youngster with elderberry.

Power up with omega-3s. A recent study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggest that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil and plant sources, like flax seeds, chia seeds, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower, could also help boost immune function.

Most of all, role model healthy living and your child is likely to follow suit--naturally.

try to integrate these vitamins and nutrients into your family's diet: • Protein boosts the body's defense system (lean meats, beans, nuts, eggs, soy products and seeds).

• Vitamin A helps keep the skin, respiratory system and tissues in your mouth, stomach and intestines healthy (sweet potatoes, carrots, kale, spinach, and apricots).

• Vitamin C stimulates the formation of antibodies that fight infection (citrus fruits, red bell pepper, papaya

and tomato juice).

• Vitamin E is an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals in the body (sunflower seeds, almonds, hazelnuts, peanut butter, sunflower/safflower oils, and spinach).

• Zinc is a nutrient that helps wounds heal and keeps the immune system working properly (lean meats, poultry, seafood, milk, whole grain products, beans and nuts).

Your Back to School Savings Headquarters!

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Infant to size 14 Furniture • Toys • Shoes Accessories • Books Equipment MENTOR COLONIAL PLAZA

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Today’s Family magazine

440-899-1100

SEPTEMBER2016

21

calendar September

Sing and Stretch Yoga Fri., September 9 • 10 or 11 am Willoughby Library 30 Public Square 440-942-3200 Experience this one-time demo of Sing and Swing’s yoga class.

Ages 1–5 attend with caregiver.

Please bring a towel or mat.

Space is limited so register early!

Geauga county Fair September 1–5 14373 N. Cheshire Street, Burton 440-834-1846 www.geaugafair.com Exhibits, animals, rides, music, food, games, and shows. Ohio’s oldest fair--since 1823. cleveland National Air Show September 3, 4, 5 Burke Lakefront Airport www.clevelandairshow.com Featuring U.S. Navy Blue Angels

Painesville Day at the Park Saturday, September 10 • 1–4 pm Kiwanis Recreation Park 301 Latimore Street 440-392-5912 www.painesville.com/recreation Free pony rides, free canoe rides, DEK hockey demos, disc golf demos, family games, hoop skills challenge, free samples from Mr. Chicken and more!

time travelers’ club Wednesday, Sept. 7 • 6 pm Mentor Public Library Mentor-on-the-Lake Branch 5642 Andrews Road 440-257-2512 www.mentorpl.org Teens can join in each month and try out games, crafts, and other activities that were popular in the past. This month, try your hand at string art, the craft fad that peaked in the 1970s. Snacks and refreshments provided.

lego club Saturday, September 10 • 2 pm Wickliffe Public Library 1713 Lincoln Road, Wickliffe 440-944-6010 Stop by for some building challenges and fun! Registration required. K+

y o ur Hallo ween H ead q uar t ers !

Three great locations near you!

Painesville Township:

2175 Mentor Ave.

Eastlake:

33459 Vine St.

Shaker Heights:

2720 Van Aken Blvd.

Shop everyday low prices!

Plus, shop $1.50 items, and select items are marked 50% off daily!

Do your kids have the back-to-school blues?

Get them in the spirit with some fun Fall outfits - new inventory arrives daily!

out now: Costumes are r the best Shop early fo selection!

22

Today’s Family magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

Bug Day Sun., September 11 • noon–4 pm See page 19 for details!

Sparx city Hop Sat., September 17 • 11 am–6 pm Downtown Cleveland www.downtowncleveland.com/ events/sparx-city-hop Hop on and off free trolleys to more than 100 galleries, artist studios, and other retailers.

Village Peddler Festival Sat., September 17 • 10 am–6 pm Sun., September 18 • 10 am–5 pm Lake Metroparks Farmpark 440-503-8414 www.villagepeddlerfestival.com Juried craftsmen, live music, food, harvest market and more. taste of little Italy Sunday, September 18 • 2–5 pm Holy Rosary Church 12009 Mayfield Road, Cleveland 216-421-0700 tasteoflittleitalycleveland.com Sample 200+ wines from Italy and enjoy signature dishes from over 40 of the area’s best Italian restaurants. Live entertainment and silent and live auctions.

Kids on the Move with Planet Fitness Wed., September 21 • 6–7 pm Willoughby Hills Library 35400 Chardon Road 440-942-3362 Kids will learn some fun ways to get fit while having fun with the help from staff at Planet Fitness. oh, A camping We Will Go Thursday, September 22 • 7 pm Mentor Public Library Read House Lawn 8215 Mentor Avenue, Mentor 440-255-8811 Come sit by the fire and hear stories, sing songs, play games, and last but not least… roast marshmallows and make s’mores.

Family Fall Fest Sunday, September 25 Bremec Garden Centers 12265 Chillicothe Rd., Chesterland 440-729-2122 www.bremec.com Hot air balloon launch, hay rides, food, animal show, magic

by Rick Smith Jr., face painting, Euclid beach rocket car rides, pumpkin painting and more!

Pokemon Party!

Tuesday, September 27 • 6:30 pm Eastlake Library 36706 Lake Shore Boulevard 440-942-7880 Join in for Pokemon-inspired games & crafts!

Night creatures Wednesday, Sept. 28 • 4 pm Mentor Public Library Main Branch 8215 Mentor Avenue 440-255-8811 www.mentorpl.org Kids can meet the many animals that wake when the sun goes down and darkness envelops the forest. Presented by Lake Metroparks. For kids 3 to 12 years old. Registration required. locked in the library Friday, Sept. 30 • 7–10 pm Mentor Public Library Main Branch 8215 Mentor Avenue 440-255-8811 www.mentorpl.org After-hours program in the library. Kids (8–12 years old) must use their wits and ingenuity to find their way out of the locked library. Registration required.

ongoing events Patterson's Family Fun Fest September 17–October 30 8765 Mulberry Rd., Chesterland 440-729-1964 www.pattersonfarm.com For families to enjoy spending time together having creative fun outdoors.

Inspired by the National Parks Quilt Show September 21–October 5 Tue–Sun • 9 am–5 pm Lake Metroparks Farmpark Kirtland www.lakemetroparks.com

october

Goblins in the Garden October 8–9 • 10 am–4 pm Holden Arboretum 9550 Sperry Road, Kirtland 440-946-4400 www.holdenarb.org Enjoy Holden's popular familyfriendly outdoor Halloween event with the creative trick or treat Trail, Scarecrow Row, crafts, wagon rides and live entertainment.

Fostering A Child By the Lake County Department of Job and Family Services

teen learns patience and focus from foster parents The spotlight this month is on Colleen, a 19-year-old girl who emancipated from the child welfare system one year ago. Colleen reports that she entered into foster care at the age of 15. She remembers that at that time she was staying out past her curfew, not coming home for weeks at a time, and while at home she refused to follow the house rules or go to school. Juvenile court became involved when Colleen stopped attending school and she eventually ended up in foster care.

Colleen recalls that she was very unhappy about her placement into foster care. Suddenly, she was faced with new rules (which she didn’t like) and new people that she didn’t know. Colleen felt that she had been abandoned by her mother and that she was being punished for living her life the way she wanted to live it. Because of her dislike of her new placement, Colleen ran away a couple of times, but after being found and spending some time in juvenile detention she would return to her foster parents, who were always willing to bring her back into the home.

Colleen was involved in counseling, on an IEP for a learning disability and met with her probation officer monthly. She remembers vividly sitting at the family dinner table after school trying to do her homework. She remembers her foster father sitting with her, breaking down math concepts for her so that she could understand and work through the problems. He helped with math (which was her most difficult subject) and other subjects until she was able to do them on her own. Colleen notes that it was this small, subtle thing that most kids take for granted that helped her

bring about patience in her life and got her focused on important things.

Because of the success she was beginning to have in school, Colleen started thinking about her future which included going to college.

At the encouragement of her foster parents, Colleen started looking into different colleges. She wanted to become a social worker so that she could help people like herself.

After settling on a couple of colleges, Colleen’s foster parents took her to tour the campuses, helped her find student housing and fill out the financial aid packets.

Colleen graduated from high school with a C average and the following fall began attending Bowling Green State University. She lives on campus with a couple of roommates and continues in counseling offered through the campus to help her process her past feelings. When looking back at her experience in foster care, Colleen noted that she didn’t always like the rules she had to follow but she now appreciates her foster parents taking her back into their home every time she ran away and the “little moments” they took with her that made all the difference.

Colleen has maintained a good relationship with her foster parents and visits them during school breaks.

If you are interested in becoming a foster and/or adoptive parent, please call the Foster Care/Adoption Inquiry Line, Lake County Department of Job and Family Services at 440-350-4218 or email Eugene.Tetrick@jfs.ohio.gov.

They will be happy to answer your questions and send you information about foster care and adoption. The Lake County Department of Job and Family Services is in need of families who would be willing to care for teenagers. Tell them you heard about foster parenting from Today's Family.

Build self-confident children

Drama in all its forms is a great tool for building expressive, selfconfident children. There are lots of ways to incorporate fun and creative drama games and activities in your own home.

See story at www.TodaysFamilyMagazine.com.

through teaching, learning, leading, and serving

Designated School

Come & Discover the Difference!

Come to our Open Houses register online or call Sept 13 • Oct 11 • Nov 15

www.St-GabrielSchool.org

Offering My Buddy & Me, Preschool through Eighth grade. New-Full day Jr Kind.

Math Club Competition 2016. Congratulations!  Christ-centered

educational environment emphasizing service and compassion to others

• Rigorous STEM • A wealth of curriculum, differenextracurricular tiated instruction activities for further and project based growth & learning for optimal leadership learning development

9935 Johnnycake Ridge Road Concord Township, Ohio 44060 440/354-7858 • www.St-GabrielSchool.org

Preschool • Elementary School • Middle School Today’s Family magazine

SEPTEMBER2016

23

Inspiring Global Citizens from Birth to 18 Years

Why is Hershey Montessori School unique?

Imagine a school ‌ where education is viewed as an aid to life; where the method for learning comes not from a curriculum, but from the natural development of your child; a place where creativity, innovation, and individuality are valued as much as concentration, motivation and persistence; where your child is not just a student, but also a teacher.

Hershey serves children from 2 months to 12 years at the Concord Campus and adolescents 12-18 years at the Huntsburg Campus.

Call to request information or schedule a visit!

440-357-0918 • Admissions@hershey-montessori.org Concord Campus 10229 Prouty Road Concord OH 44077

Huntsburg Campus 11530 Madison Road Huntsburg OH 44046