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Today s Family '

October 2016

Healthy living comes easy at

Mentor Heisley Racquet & Fitness Club

Lake & Geauga

Family Health Sensory processing disorder

Enjoy simple family fun at Patterson's Fun Fest

When teasing morphs into bullying Your guide to

private schools

Halloween and fall-themed events!

In This Issue

private school Guide Pages-12–21, 28

4 Mentor Heisley Racquet & Fitness Club

Has something for all to enjoy and stay fit

When friendly teasing morphs into bullying

Procrastinating mom wants to be more like daughter

Ghost-busting strategies

Scary and not-so-scary events

Themed weekends run through October 16

Patterson Fruit Farm Fun Fest runs through October 30

Sensory processing disorder

5 Is teasing bullying?

6 Mommy Chronicles

7 Help your child to face fears 9 Halloween Happenings

22 Fall Harvest Weekends at Farmpark 23 Discover traditional family fun 25 Family Health Open year round! The Mentor Ice Arena is the only indoor ice skating complex in Lake County. Come on out and join in on the fun this fall!

Back to School Bash

October 7th

with DJ Stray/ and Ignite the Ice 8:30 - 10:30 pm $6 Adults & Youth Admission | $3 Skate Rental

OPEN SKATING SCHEDULE

October 1, 2016 - April 29, 2017 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

3:15 - 4:45 PM 4:00 - 5:30 PM 4:00 - 5:30 PM 4:00 - 5:30 PM 8:30 - 10:30 PM DJ Night!!!

1:30 - 3:30 PM 8:30 -10:30 PM 1:30 - 3:30 PM

M-F Lunch Skate 12:00 - 1:30 PM $4 Luncheon

SMALL FOLK OPEN SKATE

Age 8 years and under plus parents may skate on our Studio Rink during Open Skates on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

Skaters 10 years and under must wear helmets.

Available for Parties, Leagues, Lessons & More. Call for Info!

OPEN YEAR ROUND

26 Calendar A listing of great family fun activities

27 Fostering and Adoption

By Lake County Department of Job and Family Services

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 Mary Flenner Christa Melnyk Hines Laura Lytle Kim McCloskey Stacy Turner

Advertising Kim Miller Graphic Design Dawn Miller

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 Lake and Geauga counties.

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Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

The Plain Dealer/Sun News/Cleveland.com...For Advertising Information Call (216)999-4360

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OCTOBER2016

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Healthy Living comes easy at Mentor Heisley Racquet & Fitness Club From aerobics and sports leagues to massages and nutrition, there is something for all to enjoy

By Laura Lytle

E

veryone in the community can be inspired to stay fit and healthy every day of the week at Mentor Heisley Racquet & Fitness Club. Adult fitness classes, massages and private training keep adults active while kids can enjoy year-round soccer, swimming, basketball, tennis classes or private lessons as well as youth sports.

Natalie Tomazic, co-owner of MHRFC said, “Our goal is to help people do more of what makes them happy. Whether it is participating in team sports and leagues, swimming and aerobics, or promoting overall wellness from our holistic health

coach or spa services. We help individuals and families focus on the keys to healthy living.”

The MHRFC hosts one of the largest indoor soccer programs around. For children (over five years old), teens and adults, the soccer club hosts nearly 175 teams in leagues, tournaments, and practices. Indoor soccer runs November 1 thru May 15. Additional sports like lacrosse, field hockey, flag football, sports camps and clinics are also offered throughout the year on the indoor field.

In addition, the MHRFC pool creates numerous opportunities for swimming, stretching and training.

Aqua Zumba and water aerobics

2016~2017 Family Series Mar. 24-Apr. 9, 2017

The Fine Arts Association’s production of

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4

Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

The Synergy360 is one of the newest pieces of equipment and is designed for up to 10 people to do different exercises at once.

are geared at providing high energy, cardio workouts for adults, while kids can learn basic swimming skills in group or private lessons. The Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program is designed for seniors to safely gain strength and flexibility without putting excess strain on joints and muscles.

Fitness, yoga and aerobics also provide opportunities for overall wellness in half-hour classes. All classes are designed to get the body moving through weight training, stretching, TRX and cardio. The Synergy360 is one of the newest pieces of equipment and is designed for up to 10 people to do different exercises at once.

“Our membership adjusts to fit different lifestyle needs. From annual memberships and corporate memberships to day passes and ‘snow bird’ three-month memberships, we have numerous fitness and sports programs available throughout the year. Club members can sign up free for many classes and guests can take an aerobics class for $10,” added Tomazic.

Free childcare is included with family memberships (and for a small fee to program participants) for children six months to seven years. Their babysitting center is open seven days a week (daily hours vary).

Kids and families can also host birthday parties, First Communions, bridal and baby showers. Club staff are available to help plan details for

every party including room rental, catering, decorations and party favors. Ideal for small to midsize parties, kids can enjoy swimming, soccer and other sports. Every party is unique and planned with as much (or little) help as requested.

For the first time, a bridal show will be hosted at MHRFC on June 4, 2017. Brides can find gently used wedding dresses, decorations and talk with local vendors about their upcoming nuptials. Teens may also shop for prom dresses. Additional details can be found on the MHRFC Facebook event page.

For more information on fitness programs, youth sports, swimming or party hosting, call Mentor Heisley Racquet & Fitness Club at 440-639-CLUB, visit them at www. mentorheisleyfitness.com or follow them on Facebook.

Planning a Party?

See our party planning guide for great ideas! www.TodaysFamilyMagazine.com Click on Directory on the home page.

Is teasing bullying?

By Christa Melnyk Hines "Oh honey, I'm only teasing," I say smiling as I ruffle my six-year-old's thick thatch of blonde hair.

He's annoyed that I'd gently ribbed him about the adorable cowlick on his head, and his need for a haircut. "Teasing isn't allowed at school. It's bullying," he says with a grave look in his blue eyes.

This stops me in my tracks. Is playful teasing really the same as bullying? I'd mostly thought of teasing as a form of affection, especially within the family and with close friends.

Prosocial teasing Because the line between teasing and bullying can be blurry, many schools adopt zero-tolerance policies for both behaviors. Nonetheless, the ability to recognize and respond appropriately to light-hearted teasing is a valuable social skill.

Communication researcher Carol Bishop Mills, Ph.D., finds that the lighter side of teasing benefits our social lives by building and strengthening relationships and helping us navigate conflict. But teaching youngsters to recognize the differences between kidding and tormenting isn't easy.

In general, kids grasp the concept of affectionate teasing around age 10, Mills says. (Although, she adds, a child who is accustomed to good-natured kidding by parents may understand it earlier.)

Context and the nature of the relationship is key

to understanding the meaning behind words.

"When kids get teased, they tend to focus on the negative or challenging content," Mills says.

"Try to get them to take the perspective of others by asking, 'What do you think Reece was doing?' and talk through that."

Discuss nonverbal cues that the other child exhibited. Ask questions like, "Was he laughing?

Was he trying to play? Did he look mean when he said it?"

Then, discuss teasing from your child's point of view. "When you teased Leila, did you want her to cry? ...Oh you were playing...maybe Reece was playing too!"

"It'll take several attempts. It's not an overnight process," Mills says.

When teasing morphs into bullying Of course, youngsters also need to recognize when teasing isn't playful.

"If it hurts emotionally, socially or physically, it's not funny," says Deb Woodard, licensed professional counselor and certified school counselor. "If persistent, it can become what is formally identified as bullying."

Point out body language and verbal signals that indicate that the target of the tease isn't happy.

Role-model, role-play and discuss situations as they arise. And respect your child's personal boundaries if he doesn't want to be teased about

something--even if it starts out playfully.

"Even children who are too young to identify and express hurt feelings verbally, may cry or physically push away those who think they mean well," Woodard says.

Build resilience Arm your child with skills to assertively manage put downs. Author and educational psychologist Michele Borba suggests firm statements like: "I want you to stop teasing me" or "Why would you say that?" (For more ideas, check out micheleborba.com.)

If teasing continues, raise the possibility with your youngster that the remarks may not really be See TEASING on page 8

Choose a UH doctor in your neighborhood.

Good health starts with great primary care.

University Hospitals has northern Ohio’s largest family and internal medicine network, so that finding the right primary care provider is easier than ever.

University Hospitals is proud to introduce Elenee Raudenbush, DO, to UH Premier Family Physicians in Chesterland. She offers comprehensive primary care and expertise in the area of family medicine for men, women, children and older adults.

On-site testing, same-day visits and convenient weekend hours are available.

All major insurance plans accepted, including Medical Mutual of Ohio (MMO) SuperMed.

Now accepting new patients.

Call 440-729-3644 or visit us online to make an appointment.

UHhospitals.org/PrimaryCare UH Chesterland Health Center, 8055 Mayfield Road, Suite 107, Chesterland, Ohio 44026 © 2016 University Hospitals

Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

5

mommy chronicles Master procrastinator mom hopes to learn from daughter

By Stacy Turner

Saturday, November 12, 2016 9 am - 4 pm Open To The Public

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Today’s Family Magazine

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I don’t want to brag, but I’m something of a master procrastinator.

Don’t be jealous -- It’s a skill I’ve been honing for as long as I can remember.

Over the years, through high school and college, as well as through a variety of workplaces, I’ve consistently given myself minor heart palpitations and made myself sweat while simultaneously completing major projects in the final hours. It’s probably one of my least favorite character traits, but one I just can’t seem to break. I have the best intentions for changing my waylaying ways, but somehow, I always get sidetracked. I’m not sure if it’s my short attention span, or just too many thoughts and projects spinning around in my brain. Either way, I just can’t seem to kick the nasty habit. I make extensive lists of all the stuff I’ll complete in a given day but at day’s end, most are incomplete. I guess I’m overly optimistic about the amount of time each task will take.

Luckily, I’ve got some really good ‘git er done’ role models to emulate.

My husband is a master of planning his work and working his plan.

He’s the poster boy for organization -- Captain Clutter-Buster, sorting through the superfluous fluff and bringing order to chaos. From piles of mail to the kids schoolwork, if it’s not neatly ordered and essential, it’s gone. He’s loosened up a bit over the years, adding photos and personal touches to his once sterile-looking workspace, but all in all, organization reigns supreme. My office is a reflection of what’s going on inside my head. It’s a menagerie of photos, drawings and interesting quotes, projects in progress, kids homemade art, files, books and notebooks. Needless to say, he can’t spend much time in my office without breaking out into a cold sweat.

We’ve got two children, and like mothers have threatened since the beginning of time, we each have one that’s just like us. Our firstborn is ultra-organized. She regularly cleans her room without being asked, purging stuff with wild abandon. Like my husband, she’s adept at the art of linear thinking, starting at Point A and making her way efficiently to Point B. That’s just not how my mind naturally

works. I try to think along those lines but in my brain, the distance from point A to point B seems to take several detours. Without a map, it’s easy to get lost or distracted during the journey.

But not my firstborn. When she gets a big project at school, she looks at the calendar, then plans out what needs to be done each week in order to meet her deadline. Sometimes, she even turns her work in early, which makes me equally proud of her while totally boggling my cluttered mind.

Some day, I hope to be just like her.

Our youngest, however, is more like her momma, and I feel like apologizing to her daily for that. But my uber-organized cohorts and I are trying to break the cycle with her by instilling better habits to potentially help her avoid deadline-induced trauma later down the road.

It mystifies me how it’s second nature for my spouse and daughter to take a big, overwhelming project or activity and break it into small, manageable, easy-to-complete chunks spread out over days or weeks. That seems to be how a logical mind works. In my view, it seems utterly magical -- it’s simply too good to be true. You mean you can spend a few minutes each day focused on one thing, and at the end of the week, you’re done? Without all the nailbiting, getting crabby, and staying up late the night before it’s due to finish?! That’s crazy-talk! But we’re on a mission to help my youngest learn the secrets of this mystical gift.

As an added bonus, I think I may be learning a bit in the process. Now, I don’t claim to be as systematic as my older daughter, who makes crafty gifts during the summer months so she’s all set for the coming Christmas gift-giving season, but I’m trying to get a handle on all those little pesky day-to-day tasks and long-term goals.

Maybe it’s the competition to use up that stockpile of supplies from my ‘some day I’ll make this project’ stash in the basement before she gifts them all away. Who knows, but whatever the reason, it seems to be working.

And although I don’t have organizational ingrained in my DNA like she seems to, I hope to change at least some of my ‘seat of my pants’ ways by learning by her example.

Say goodbye to ghosts

(and other childhood fears)

By Heidi Smith Luedtke, PhD

I

n addition to being a shortorder cook, housekeeper, and 24/7 chauffeur, I’m also my kids’ #1 fear-fighter. I check under their beds for bad guys and stick my arm in the toy bin “to make sure the crab isn’t real.” Almost every day my kids ask for help with scary situations.

My daughter believes zombies live in our attic and my son swears he’s seen a green ghost in my bedroom.

I tell them, “Monsters are just pretend,” but neither child believes me.

They’re convinced that danger lurks in the darkness.

Where Fears Come From Kids’ fears are as unique as their personalities. Many young kids are afraid of animals and insects (dogs, snakes, spiders), characters in costumes (beware Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny), and things that go bump in the night. Others fear loud

noises or believe they’ll be sucked down the toilet when it flushes.

Even kids who don’t believe in the boogeyman may fret about schoolyard bullies.

“Some kids are more fearful than others because they are born with a predisposition to worry,” says clinical psychologist Joanne Wendt, PhD. Other fears grow in response to trauma. For example, a child may start to fear bees after being stung himself or seeing a classmate get stung on the playground. A little information can be dangerous: Kids who learn about killer bees may believe backyard bumblebees are mini-mercenaries.

Adult role models can also fuel kids’ fears. A mom who is deathly afraid of escalators may pass along her anxieties by telling kids moving stairs are slippery and insisting the whole family take the elevator. “Kids look to parents for cues about whether a situation is safe,” says Tamar Chansky, PhD, author of Freeing Your Child from Anxiety.

“Parents need to be mindful of the signals they send so they don’t send fearful messages about objects or situations that are basically safe, or can be managed,” she says.

Fight Fears Together Dismissing kids’ concerns isn’t the answer. “Parents can unintentionally feed kids’ fears by reassuring them they have nothing to worry about,” Wendt warns. The best approach is problem-solving. Here are some ways to do it.

Identify the issue. When your child comes to you for help with a fear, engage in some critical thinking. Questions like “Why are you

afraid of this spider?” and “Have you been hurt by a spider in the past?” encourage your child to define her fear more clearly. Once she’s defined her fear, she can start to question its legitimacy.

Teach kids to think twice. First, ask your child what worry is telling him about the situation, using a funny voice or puppet to represent worry.

“Then, using his ‘smarter mind,’ ask your child what he really thinks will happen,” Chansky says. A worry might be saying, “The sixth-grade bully will toss me in the trash can,” but your child’s smarter side knows, “The trash can has a locked cover.”

See FEARS page 8

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OCTOBER2016

7

LAKE METROPARKS FARMPARK

Fall Harvest Weekends

Bring the family for fall harvest fun at Farmpark!

apple Butter Weekend October 1 & 2 Corn & Pumpkin Weekends October 8 & 9, 15 & 16

Teasing from page 5 about them, but about the teaser.

"Kids tease because they're playing with words (rhyming), exploring new ideas (boyfriend/girlfriend), pointing out differences (height, hair color, glasses, etc.) or to exert peer pressure," Mills says.

While teaching kids to stand up for themselves and confidently express their feelings builds resilience, encourage them to immediately seek a trusted, safe adult if they ever feel scared or threatened.

Teasing is okay when:

• Both parties are laughing, smiling and joking with each other.

• Both individuals sense that the teasing is playful and not meant to be hurtful.

• The person being teased responds in a playful way, which increases his or her likability in the group.

• There's a balance of power in the relationship.

Teasing should stop immediately when:

• Facial expressions convey that the other person is feeling hurt by the comments.

• Taunting or cruel name-calling is used. (Epithets related to race, weight, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion and disability are unacceptable.)

• Comments are derogatory in nature, insulting and mean-spirited.

• The teaser shows disdain and dislike for the other person.

• There's a power difference between the individuals. For example, one is the "popular" kid and the other is struggling in the social setting.

Source: Carol Bishop Mills, Ph.D. phOtOs by EaRL LinabuRg

Farmpark members free Lake Metroparks Farmpark 8800 Euclid Chardon Rd. (Rt.6) Kirtland, Ohio 44094 Sponsored by Coca-Cola of Willoughby, 440-256-2122 Western Reserve Farm Cooperative, lakemetroparks.com Discount Drug Mart & Pat Catan’s

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Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

Fears from page 7 Fight scary with silly. Have your child draw a picture of the thing that scares her. Then, do a goofy makeover. The hairy monster in your daughter’s closet will look a lot less frightening wearing a ballet tutu and hair curlers. Coach your child to imagine the monster slipping on a banana peel or falling off a cliff.

“This allows her to take charge of her fear and her imagination,” Chansky says.

Practice self-soothing. Kids can learn breathing and muscle relaxation techniques to calm themselves. The easiest strategy is to breathe slowly while counting to four and breathe out while counting to seven. This focuses your child’s attention and puts him back in control. “Repeating a special word, phrase or affirmation, such as ‘I can handle this,’ also eases anxiety,” Wendt says. Practice these calming behaviors every day so they become automatic.

Step it up. Use a technique called systematic desensitization to approach the feared situation gradually. “Make a simple drawing of a stairway from the side view and put your child’s goal at the top,” Chansky says. Then start at the bottom and write in steps from the least to most threatening. For example, a child whose goal is to pet a dog might start by looking at pictures of dogs, visit-

ing a pet store or animal shelter and letting a dog sniff her hand. Remind your child to take deep breaths as anxieties escalate.

Be patient. Forcing kids to confront their fears when they aren’t ready will only increase their anxiety.

Talk about your own insecurities and model a courageous approach to the unknown. When your child feels overwhelmed, allow him to step back and observe the scary situation from a distance. Before long, he’ll probably be ready to reengage.

If Ghosts Won’t Go All kids have occasional worries, but some suffer from intense and persistent fears. “Anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric disorders, affecting between 10 and 17 percent of children and teens,” Chansky says. “They are also the most treatable.” Using cognitivebehavioral therapy, kids can learn to turn down their over-reactive emotion systems and teach their brains new tricks.

If your child’s fears keep her from enjoying everyday activities at home and at school, reach out to your pediatrician or school psychologist.

A professional fear-buster can help your child say “boo!” to ghosts and other childhood anxieties.

his spooky puppet friends for a spooktacular puppet show.

Registration is required and begins October 14.

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 family-friendly outdoor Halloween event with the creative Trick or Treat Trail, Scarecrow Row, crafts, wagon rides, live entertainment and more.

Hauntaquarium: Under the Big Top Oct. 21, 22, 28, 29 • 6–9 pm Greater Cleveland Aquarium 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland 216-862-8803 greaterclevelandaquarium.com A family-friendly trick-or-treat adventure. This year, guests will stay warm and dry trick-ortreating while enjoying a circus of activities including: • Costumed SCUBA divers in the shark exhibit • Crafts, a maze, circusthemed photo ops and carnival games • Live entertainment shows featuring a magician, juggling act & clowns Pricing: $10/pass holder for everyone age 2 and up, $12/ non-pass holder for everyone age 2 and up, under 2 are free.

Fall Fest: Trunk or Treat Sat., October 22 • 3–8 pm Recreation Park, Painesville www.painesville.com Featuring Dr. Insecta Bug Lab, Russ Gordon magic, costume contest, games, hayrides, food, hay maze and free pumpkin painting for the first 300 children.

Mr. Dennis’s Halloween Show Monday, October 24 • 7 pm Mentor Headlands Library 4669 Corduroy Road 440-257-2000 Mr. Dennis will be there with

Pumpkin Decorating Wed., October 26 • 2:30 pm Mentor-on-the-Lake Library 5642 Andrews Road 440-257-2512 The countdown to Halloween begins when you start carving pumpkins, but that can be messy. Instead, come to the Lake Branch and decorate a small pumpkin with no carving required.

Spooky Night at the Hills Wed., October 26 • 6–7 pm Willoughby Hills Library 35400 Chardon Road 440-942-3362 Join in for a frightful night of stories, songs and crafts!

Willoughby Hills Craft Show SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2016 9am – 3pm

Willoughby Hills Community Center 35400 Chardon Road

Super Happy Halloween at Lost Nation Sports Park Thursday, October 27 • 6–8 pm 38630 Jet Center Drive Willoughby Join Willoughby Library at Lost Nation Sports Park for a super Halloween celebration!

Activities will include a haunted house, use of the fields/courts, crafts and refreshments including pizza and candy!

Mysteries of the Manor Trail at Wildwood Park Oct. 28 & 29 • 6:30–8:30 pm Wildwood Cultural Center 7645 Little Mountain Road Mentor This family-friendly event will feature a DJ, games, pumpkin painting, pumpkin hunt, refreshments and a bonfire! We’ll provide apple cider, donuts and glow sticks for the kids. Kettle corn will also be available for sale. Be sure to bring your own s’more supplies to cook over the fire.

The highlight of the evening is the hayride which will wind its way through the 34-acre estate’s trails while an onboard guide spins their not-too-scary tales.

Cost is $7 for residents and $9 for nonresidents. Children 2 and under free. No strollers permitted on the hayride. For more information or to register, call 440-974-5735 or visit www.cityofmentor.com.

Over 65 Vendors of Hand Crafted Items Only!

Vendors will be on both levels of the Community Center Raffles throughout the day NO ADMISSION FEE! Get an early start on Your Holiday Shopping!

Goblins in the garden Saturday, Oct. 8 Sunday, Oct. 9 10am - 4pm

Admission by the carload!

Visit holdenarb.org

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9550 Sperry Road | Kirtland, OH 44094 | 440.946.4400 | holdenarb.org Today’s Family Magazine Today's Family Gobins ad 2016.indd 1

OCTOBER2016

9

8/15/2016 11:29:36 AM

Great Lakes Science Center opens new Design Zone exhibit

What does it take to create a blockbuster video game? How many beats per minute does a DJ need to get bodies moving on the dance floor? What goes into creating a roller coaster or skate park to produce the most fun and biggest thrills?

The answers can be found where creativity and science come together in Design Zone -- Great Lakes Science Center's new special exhibition opening Saturday, October 1. Design Zone examines the science behind creativity and puts the tools for creative inspiration in guests' hands.

Design Zone is free with general paid admission to the Science Center and runs through Monday, January 2.

Just For Laughs!

Throughout three highly interactive themed areas focusing on art, music and action, Design Zone reveals how game developers, music producers, coaster designers and other creative problem-solvers do what they do, and explains how design concepts and math become real life experiences in the worlds of art, entertainment and extreme sports.

Visitors can design their own experience and, in some cases, email their creations to family and friends.

They'll solve real world challenges and discover that math isn't just a subject in school but a fundamental, creative tool that can be used to design and invent!

Creative problem-solving, design challenges, hands-on, interactive exhibits and a new perspective on the way everyday things are designed and made await in Design Zone!

General admission (includes NASA Glenn Visitor Center) is $15.00 for adults and $12.00 for children 2–12.

Visit www.GreatScience.com for more information.

Cartoon by Jerry King

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Mentor | 440-205-8283 University Hts. | 1-800-CAN-LEARN

1.800.CAN.LEARN

©2015 Huntington Mark, LLC. Independently Owned and Operated. SAT and Advanced Placement (AP) are registered trademarks of the College Board. PSAT/NMSQT is a registered trademark of the College Board and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. None of these entities were involved in the production of, and do not endorse the program.* Offer valid for Academic Evaluation or Tuition, new students only. Not valid with any other offer.

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Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

Deer in the headlights 6 tips to avoid an accident with our furry friends According to Car-Accidents.com, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that there are approximately 1.5 million car crashes each year as a result of deer. Deer are especially active during fall, which coincides with their mating season. Although we cannot stop deer from entering roadways at inopportune times, there are steps we can take to reduce the chance of having an accident if a deer crosses our path while driving: 1. Be vigilant while driving in wooded areas. Although deer can be found almost anywhere, city or suburb, it is important to be extra cautious when driving through heavily wooded areas.

2. Use high beams whenever possible. High beams can help illuminate deer and allow you to see the reflection of your lights in its eyes. Be cautious with high beams though; if a deer does cross your path, it may freeze in your headlights. Be sure to turn them off quickly and beep your horn to help scare the deer away.

3. Watch for deer crossing signs.

These signs are placed where there is an increased likelihood of coming across a deer so be sure to pay even more attention to your surroundings.

4. Drive in the center lane whenever possible, if travelling down a multi-lane road. This will give you just a little more reaction time if a deer darts in front of your vehicle. If on a two lane road, stay as close to the center line as is safely possible.

5. Do not swerve. If a deer enters the roadway, be sure to step on the brakes and keep your wheel

straight. Typically, deer will move out of the way and if you swerve, you may put yourself back into the path of the deer. Also, sharp turns can increase the likelihood of losing control of the vehicle and causing an accident with another vehicle, tree, etc.

6. Watch for relatives. Deer do not travel alone so if you see one, be aware that there are more nearby.

This is another reason swerving is a bad idea––swerving to avoid one deer may put you in the path of another.

Deer are one of the most dangerous animals to man due to their contributions to auto accidents. Taking simple precautions can be the difference between having an accident with a deer and almost having an accident with a deer. There are products out there such as deer whistles that attach to your car and emit a high-pitched whistle to notify deer of your oncoming vehicle. There are conflicting reports as to their effectiveness, so be sure to take all necessary precautions when driving, especially at dawn or dusk when deer traffic is highest.

Courtesy of the Corsaro Insurance Group and Central Insurance Companies.

Matthew Corsaro is the president and owner of the Corsaro Insurance Group in Mentor, Ohio. His company and staff have been providing insurance solutions to families and business owners for over forty years. Mr. Corsaro has obtained the Accredited Advisor in Insurance and Certified Insurance Counselor designations. Corsaro Insurance Group represents over twenty insurance companies.

As well they have expertise in all areas of auto, home and business Insurance.

They can be reached at 440-946-4950.

St. Gabriel Christmas Craft Boutique St. Gabriel School

9935 Johnnycake Ridge Rd. • Concord Township

Fall into savings . . .

Find out how you can save by insuring your home and auto with Auto-Owners Insurance!

Contact us for the best rates!

LIFE • HOME • CAR • BUSINESS

8039 Broadmoor Road • Mentor 440-946-4950

Friday, November 11, 2016 6:00 – 9:00 pm & Saturday, November 12, 2016 9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Come and experience the high quality craftsmanship of over 100 inspired artisans. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to buy for those special people on your Christmas list!

Admission is $5.00 for those 13 and older. Please do not bring strollers for safety reasons.

Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

11

August 23rd Orientation Day August 24th First Day of School

Private School Guide

Moral Values Discovery Achievement

Accepting Registrations for All Day Pre-Kindergarten

Call the school office or see our website for more information 29840 Euclid Avenue Wickliffe, OH 44092

440-585-0800

440-585-9391 fax www.MaterDeiAcademy.us Campus Tours

Call the school office to schedule your visit

Choosing a

private

Mater Dei Academy students are empowered to grow spiritually, Moral Values · Discovery Achievement academically and socially through·worship, a challenging curriculum, service and extra-curricular activities.

Mater Dei Academy offers kindergarten through grade 8 and allday pre-K. All-day preschool for 4-year-olds (M/W/F) and half-day preschool for 3-year-olds (T/Th).

Mater Dei Academy offers: advanced/honors coursework; individual ChromeBooks for grades 6-8; ActivBoard technology in classrooms; weekly physical education, art, music, Spanish and technology classes. Tutoring and remedial help is available for those who qualify. We participate in the diocesan hot lunch program. Beforeand after-school care is also available.

Mater Dei Academy students are empowered to grow spiritually, We offer aand comprehensive course of studycurriculum, fully accredited by academically socially through worship, a challenging service and extra-curricular activities. the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Catholic Schools Mater Dei Association.

Academy offers Kindergarten through grade 8 and Accrediting all day Pre-K. All day preschool for 4 year olds (M/W/F) and half day Preschool for 3 year olds (T/Th).

UPcOming EvEnts

Mater Dei Academy offers advanced/honors coursework, individual ChromeBooks for grades technology19 in classrooms, Fri., October 7 6-8, ActivBoard Wed., October Fri., October 21, 28 weekly Physical Education, Art, Music, Spanish and Technology Our Lady of Prospective Family All-school liturgies classes; tutoring and remedial help is available for those who qualify. participate in the diocesan hotHouse lunch program. the We Rosary Open 8:30 am Mass Before/After school care is also available.

Rosary at 8:30 am

6–8 pm

All are welcome!

We offer a comprehensive course of study fully accredited by the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Catholic Schools Accrediting Association.

Upcoming Events:

August 23rd Orientation Day August 24th First Day of School

29840 Euclid Avenue Wickliffe, AcceptingOH 44092

Registrations for 440-585-0800 All Day www.MaterDeiAcademy.us Pre-Kindergarten

Campus Tours

CallCall the school office or office the school see our website for more to information schedule your visit!

12

29840 Euclid Avenue Wickliffe, OH 44092 Today’s Family Magazine

440-585-0800 440-585-9391 fax

OCTOBER2016

A

school

s a parent you want to provide the best for your child, especially when it comes to their education. Choosing the right school is an important decision. We are lucky to have so many exceptional academic institutions right here in northeast Ohio.

Private schools can be a great option for your child. If choosing a private school is in your future, consider the following factors to find the right school for your child.

List your educational priorities before you start looking at schools.

Think about what is most important to you in a private school. For example if academics is more important than religion, but religion is more important than extracurricular activities, then have academics be number one on your list, religion number two and extracurricular activities number three.

Find out about safety practices.

In today's world safety is a huge concern. You will want to know how secure the facility is as well as what precautions are in place to keep danger away from your child and how well the teachers are prepared to handle the kids if a crisis situation should arise.

Understand the philosophy or theology of the school. If you are sending your child to a religious school you want to be sure the faith being taught is in harmony with the faith you want for your child.

The same is true if you are sending your child to a school that operates around any basic philosophy. It is important to choose a school where your child will be taught things that

reinforce and will be reinforced by what you are teaching in your home.

Inquire about opportunities available for parental involvement.

If you are a parent with an interest in being involved in your child's school you will want to find out about the opportunities available. There may be afterschool activities that need adult supervision or classroom teachers that need room parents to assist with classroom activities.

What is the tuition, how is it paid and are there scholarships? Find out not only the cost of tuition, but also other costs such as money needed for trips or special projects. A private education is a huge investment, but most private schools are willing to cater to the needs of solid prospective students. Many private schools willingly arrange payment plans.

Also check to see if your child is eligible for any scholarships or financial aid that may be available.

Talk with various members of the private school community. Getting an insider's perspective on the school can be very helpful. Selecting the right private school can be a hard task, but with input from others it can be easier.

Visit prospective schools. While it is a good idea to narrow down your list by visiting the websites of the schools you are interested in, you will want to visit each prospective school in person to get a feel for the environment and talk to administrators.

Choosing the right private school will take some time, but doing your homework first will result in a great experience for you and your child.

OH_2016_TF_half.qxp_Layout 1 9/14/16 3:35 PM Page 1

es t . 1896

Start Small. Dream big.

Families choose our Pre-Primary program because it fosters a child’s sense of wonder, encourages curiosity and inspires a desire to learn. Beginning in Kindergarten, Laurel girls benefit from our over a century of experience educating girls and our nationally recognized Center for Research on Girls.

Come visit us. We are the private school that knows girls best.

Girls Kindergarten-Grade 12 and Coed Pre-Primary LaurelSchool.org 216.464.0946

Dream. Dare. Do. LYMAN CAMPUS One Lyman Circle Shaker Heights, Ohio

!

BUTLER CAMPUS 7420 Fairmount Road Russell Township, Ohio

All-School Open House

Sunday, October 16 1:00- 3:00 pm For more information and to RSVP visit LaurelSchool.org/OpenHouse

S AV E T H E D A T E :

Pre-Primary and Primary Schools Open House Saturday, January 7 9:00- 11:00 am

GILMOUR ACADEMY

Sunday, October 9 at noon or Wednesday, November 9 at 6 p.m.

Join us at one of our Fall Open Houses to learn about Gilmour Academy, an independent, Catholic school. We are unique in that we educate the mind and empower the heart so your student will do more than succeedthey’ll thrive.

Educating the mind Empowering the heart

Grades 7-12

FALL OPEN HOUSES Call today to R.S.V.P.

440 | 473 | 8050 gilmour.org/visit Gilmour Academy is an independent, Catholic, coed school in the Holy Cross tradition.

Montessori (18 months - Kindergarten) and Grades 1-12 34001 Cedar Road | Gates Mills, OH

Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

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Private School Guide All Saints of St. John Vianney School 28702 Euclid Avenue, Wickliffe (440) 943-1395 www.allsaintssjv.org

Living, Loving, Learning in Christ All Saints of St. John Vianney School in Wickliffe is a vibrant elementary and middle school, with a history of academic excellence.

Located on the campus of the Center for Pastoral Leadership, 28702 Euclid Avenue, the school offers a faith-based, technology-enriched learning environment for students in preschool through eighth grade.

Their core curriculum includes religion, math, language arts, social studies, science and computer science. All-day pre-K, Latin, music, art, and physical education are also offered, in addition to extracurricular sports and activities.

The school’s highly experienced teachers and staff are dedicated to helping students achieve their highest academic potential and meet the diverse education needs of students and their families.

All Saints is committed to preparing 21st century thinkers and learners, as well as good stewards of the Catholic church, empowering students to thrive in high school, college and beyond.

Andrews Osborne Academy

38588 Mentor Avenue Willoughby (440) 942-3600 www.andrewsosborne.org AOA…Where Students Learn to Think Creatively Andrews Osborne Academy is a coeducational, independent, college preparatory day (grades pre-kindergarten through 12th) and boarding (7–12) school. Their lower, middle, and upper school students learn and thrive in a multicultural environment. Their 300-acre campus is truly a global village with some of the best and brightest students from down the street, across America, and around the world.

With a student-teacher ratio of just 12 to 1, students at AOA are ac-

tive participants in their education.

AOA prepares students for college... and the world! Each year, 100% of their graduates gain acceptance to four-year U.S. colleges and universities. The school takes great pride in its “global village” and embraces its cultural differences.

At AOA, students have vast opportunities to explore both in and out of the classroom, discover leadership abilities through the entrepreneurial and public speaking programs, and participate in extracurricular activities, all while excelling academically with a rigorous curriculum.

Gilmour Academy

34001 Cedar Road, Gates Mills (440) 473-8050 admissions@gilmour.org www.gilmour.org Educating the Mind, Empowering the Heart Gilmour Academy is an independent and Catholic school in northeast Ohio. At Gilmour, they know that independent is good. Catholic is good. But, together, they are

even better. It is their mission to educate the mind and empower the heart.

Following the independent school model, Gilmour’s small class sizes and variety of real-world learning opportunities provide a personalized education for every student. Founded in 1946 by the Brothers of Holy Cross, Gilmour empowers students of all faiths to ask tough questions, think critically and grow spiritually. Through a rigorous academic program, religious studies, social service and an emphasis on leadership, Gilmour educates the whole person. A Gilmour graduate emerges with a strong moral compass and sense of purpose. They understand that they have both the talent and the responsibility to make the world a better place. At Gilmour, students from 18 months to 18 years do more than succeed––they thrive.

Come see how independent and Catholic are truly better together at Gilmour Academy. *The Independent School Association of the Central States (ISACS)

Notre Dame Elementary School Sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame

Nurturing Dreams, Excellence and Success

School Tours 1st Tuesdays

All Day & Half Day Preschool All Day Kindergarten Before & After Care Program

2014 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM Education Josephine Ambrose, Admissions Director 440.279.1129 or jambrose @ndec.org

13000 Auburn Road Chardon, Ohio 44024 notredameelementary.org

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Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

STEM Program Challenge Science Olympiad Destination Imagination Visual & Performing Arts Progressive Technology

Private School Guide Hawken School www.hawken.edu

Lyndhurst Campus Lower and Middle Schools Preschool–Grade 8 5000 Clubside Road (440) 423-2950 Gates Mills Campus Upper School Grades 9–12 Mayfield and County Line Roads in Gates Mills (440) 423-2955 University Circle Urban Extension Center The Sally & Bob Gries Center for Experiential and Service Learning 10823 Magnolia Drive, Cleveland Get Ready at Hawken School Founded in 1915, Hawken is a coeducational day school for students in preschool through grade 12. Hawken prepares its diverse community of 1,040 students for successful and fulfilling lives by focusing on the development of character and intellect. Unique schedules support varied learning

styles and teaching approaches, and partnerships with renowned institutions offer real-world learning opportunities. Their tradition of academic excellence instills the skills needed to thrive in a complex world.

A lower and middle school open house for families of students in preschool through grade 8 will be held on Oct. 23 at 1:00 pm at the Lyndhurst campus, which features a stunning Early Childhood Center and inspirational learning spaces.

An upper school open house for families of students in grades 9–12 will be held on Oct. 30 at 1:00 pm at the Gates Mills campus, which features a new state-of-the-art academic building to support Hawken’s innovative programming.

For reservations, call (440) 4232955.

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

Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

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Private School Guide Hershey Montessori School www.Hershey-Montessori.org (440) 357-0918 Concord Campus 10229 Prouty Road Huntsburg Campus 11530 Madison Road Inspiring global citizens from birth to 18 years Established in 1978, Hershey Montessori School has grown to serve nearly 300 students on two campuses. It is one of the first schools in the world to offer a complete continuum of Montessori education that most closely replicates Dr. Maria Montessori’s vision, including the option of a residential program for adolescents on a working farm. The Huntsburg Campus was opened in 2000 on 97 beautiful acres and is the home of their middle school (ages 12–15) and upper school (ages 15–18) adolescent community. The campus has a working farm, bioshelter, environmentally-conscious classrooms and residential buildings.

The Concord Campus includes their

AMI programs for children from birth to age 12 in their Parent-Infant, Young Child, Children’s House and Elementary Communities and sits on 13 acres of lush woods and trails. To discover more call Lakisha Wingard, director of admissions, at (440) 357-0918 or visit www.

Hershey-Montessori.org.

Julie Billiart School

4982 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst (216) 381-1191 www.juliebilliartschool.org K-8 Education for Children with Unique Learning and Social Needs Julie Billiart School nurtures and empowers students in grades K–8 with special learning needs.

As a Catholic school rooted in the educational principles of the Sisters of Notre Dame, Julie Billiart School welcomes diverse faith traditions.

Individualized instruction in small groups help create the optimal learning experience for students. A results-driven, hands-on, multi-sensory approach educates the whole child and provides life-changing opportunities for students and

their families. They strive to build self-confidence, inspire Christian values, and empower students with skills, knowledge, and enthusiasm for learning.

Laurel School

Lyman Campus One Lyman Circle, Shaker Heights Butler Campus 7420 Fairmount Road, Russell Twp. (216) 464-0946 www.LaurelSchool.org Dream. Dare. Do. Laurel School, founded in 1896, is a nationally recognized college preparatory, independent day school for girls, kindergarten through grade 12, with a coeducational pre-primary. Laurel students come from 74 communities in northeast Ohio. Its traditional Lyman Campus is in Shaker Heights and its 140-acre Butler Campus is in Russell Township. The Butler Campus is home to competitive athletics and outdoor experiential learning, including northeast Ohio’s only outdoor preprimary School.

Laurel’s Center for Research

on Girls (LCRG) was established in 2007, drawing on the school’s long history as a site of pioneering research on girls. LCRG conducts and sponsors original research on girls, harnesses existing research to shape the day-to-day education of girls and connects parents and teachers with research findings relevant to raising and educating girls.

Save the dates! All-school open house on October 16 and the pre-primary and primary schools open house on January 7. Visit LaurelSchool.org/OpenHouse.

Lawrence School

www.lawrenceschool.org (440) 526-0717 Lower School (K–6) 1551 East Wallings Road Broadview Heights Upper School (7–12) 10036 Olde Eight Road Sagamore Hills Lawrence School: Where Great Minds Don’t Think Alike!

At Lawrence School, they understand that all students learn differently. But their K–12 students

our teaching is guided by the belief that each child is a

28702 EUCLID AVENUE

unique gift of god, created with special gifts and talents.

F: 440-943-4468

WICKLIFFE, OH 44092 P: 440-943-1395 allsaints@oh.rr.com www.allsaintssjv.org

CHRIST-CENTERED CURRICULUM After Care Program All Day Kindergarten All/Half Day Preschool Program Art Band Camp (Grade 6)

Choir Community Outreach Computer CYO Sports Daily Religious Instruction Drama Club (Grades 6, 7 & 8)

Enrichment Programs (Grades 3-8) Future Teachers (Grade 8) Intervention Specialists Jr. Achievement Program (K-8) Latin (Grade 4-8) Music

Operation Keepsake (Jr. High) Physical Education Scouts Ski Club Spelling Bee (Jr. High) State of the Art Technology Student Council

OPEN HOUSES 26, 2016 PM - 11:00 A.M. WednesdayOctober - February 3rd •• 6:00-8:00 9:00 A.M. st Sunday February 21 AM • (Open HousePM and Registration) 2:00 P.M.PM February 1, -2017 • 9:00-11:00 and 6:00-8:00 February 12, Noon 2017 • -12:00-2:00 If you can’t make it to one of our open houses, please call for a private tour.

Todays Family Ad 1215 v2.indd 1 16All Saints Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

1/2/16 5:05 PM

Private School Guide with dyslexia, ADHD, and other language-based learning differences don’t just learn differently, they see the world differently – and creatively – and come to realize all they can achieve because great minds really don’t think alike.

Their warm, inclusive community shares common bonds while valuing what is distinctive in each individual. Their positive, energetic, and dedicated faculty doesn't just work there, they answer a call to serve. Because Lawrence teachers “get” each child, students “get” themselves and parents “get” their child back.

This makes for a level playing field, where students are empowered to set high expectations, achieve self-defined success, and be their own extraordinary selves.

By the time they leave, students are prepared for whatever comes next – for collegiate success, for diverse careers, and for futures of their own construction.

Mater Dei Academy

29840 Euclid Avenue, Wickliffe (440) 585-0800 www.materdeiacademy.us Moral Values. Discovery.

Achievement.

Mater Dei Academy is committed to providing an excellent education in a loving, faith-filled environment.

Students in preschool through grade eight are given the opportunity to discover and achieve while building on their Catholic moral values.

Their well-rounded, innovative and challenging curriculum provides students the opportunity to discover their own unique talents in a nurturing environment. With the help of dedicated educators, students are prepared spiritually, intellectually, and socially to achieve in the classroom and in society. Mater Dei students are accountable for their actions while caring for others and demonstrating responsibility for the world around them.

In addition, a wide variety of after-school activities help students

further broaden their horizons.

Mater Dei is proud to offer science fiction and art clubs, spring musical, baton, golf and a variety of other activities.

Campus tours are available daily and can be scheduled by calling the school office at 440-585-0800.

Mentor Christian School 8600 Lakeshore Blvd., Mentor (440) 257-3172 www.mentorchristian.com

Notre Dame Elementary School

13000 Auburn Road, Chardon (440) 279-1127 (440) 279-1129 Admissions www.notredameelementary.org Nurturing Dreams, Excellence and Success Notre Dame Elementary School (Pre-K–8) is sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame. Celebrating God’s goodness and provident care, NDES educates children by nurturing dreams, excellence and success for transforming their lives and the world.

NDES scores excellent on national testing, ranking on average in the 94th percentile in English language arts and the 92nd percentile in math, as demonstrated on the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills. A strong foundation in math, reading and writing in all content areas are key to student success. In addition, an integrated technology program that includes ActivBoards, iPads, surface tablets and 3D printers provides practical, hands-on learning experiences that are applicable and meaningful in daily life.

In 2015, NDES received the Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM Education by the Ohio Academy of Science. An outstanding curriculum centers on strong math and science programs, collaboration, experiential learning, tiered instruction, problem solving and critical thinking skills.

An enhanced STEM focus provides NDES students with opportunities for learning above and beyond!

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 Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

17

Private School Guide Our Shepherd Lutheran School

Coed Preschool – Grade 12

LOWER & MIDDLE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE Sunday, October 23 1:00 pm Preschool-Grade 8 Lyndhurst Campus

Get Ready

to do school differently.

Learning spaces and curriculum designed to ignite curiosity and inspire passion.

UPPER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, October 30 1:00 pm Grades 9-12 Gates Mills Campus t

RSVP

oday!

To RSVP and for more information 440-423-2950 (Preschool-Gr 8) 440-423-2955 (Gr 9-12) or visit hawken.edu

The best way to get to know Hawken is to spend time on our campuses.

For more campus visit dates go to hawken.edu/admission

Stirn Hall Now Open!

Tour our new state-of-the-art upper school building.

508 Mentor Avenue, Painesville Across from Lake Erie College (440) 357-7776 www.oslpainesville.org Inspiring Excellence!

Our Shepherd Lutheran School has provided academic excellence in a Christ-centered educational environment since 1980. They have been a nationally accredited Lutheran School since 2003 and joyfully serve Lake, Geauga, and Ashtabula counties. They are a faith-filled community of highly educated, and caring individuals who dedicate their lives to the academic and faith formation of their students. They are housed in Zion Lutheran Church.

They invite the community to join them in events throughout the year. October 6, 2016 is the annual Family Fall Festival from 5:30–7:00 pm featuring the Scholastic Book Fair. Make your reservations now for the Annual Gala and Auction at Quail Hollow on Friday, November 11, 2016. No tickets will be avail-

able at the door. They will host an open house for grades 1–8 on January 7, 2017 and a kindergarten orientation on January 28, 2017.

Visit www.oslpainesville.org, call (440) 357-7776, or email admissions counselor, Stephanie DeGidio at sdegidio@oslpainesville.org for information. Our Shepherd Lutheran School truly is “A Great Place to Grow!”

Saint Anselm School

13013 Chillicothe Rd., Chesterland (440) 729-7806 www.stanselmschool.org

St. Gabriel School and Learning Loft Preschool

9935 Johnnycake Ridge Road Concord Township (440) 352-6169 www.St-GabrielSchool.org Let your light shine! Discover the difference!

Offering My Buddy & Me class and preschool through 8th grade.

St. Gabriel School has been preparing its graduates for life through faith, learning, and love for over fifty years.

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.

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Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

Private School Guide They strive to improve the education they offer by investing in the future leaders of tomorrow.

Their buildings are equipped with research technology. Most importantly, their teachers make the difference. Through loving kindness, compassion, and dedication, coupled with their skills and expertise, they ignite learning. They are a STEM designated school by ODE and implement the principles of STEAM while weaving faith and instilling a strong sense of purpose and service.

Discover how St. Gabriel Learning Loft and St. Gabriel School will enrich your child’s future. For preschool call Ann at (440) 354-7574.

For grades JRK–8, open houses will be held at 9 am on the following Tuesdays: Oct 11, Nov 15, Dec 13.

And a kindergarten meet & greet wil be on December 15 or 16. Call (440) 354-7858 or visit them online at www.St-GabrielSchool.org.

St. Helen Catholic School 12060 Kinsman Road, Newbury (440) 564-7125 www.st-helen-school.com A Faith-Filled Community Promoting Academic Excellence and Leadership Skills St. Helen School provides a loving family environment that will help students in preschool through grade 8 grow to become successful leaders and faith-filled children of God. St. Helen’s mission statement articulates a commitment to respecting the dignity of each person and developing leadership skills. A fully trained and accredited staff, excellent academic and religious programs, and numerous

extracurricular activities continue to provide a solid foundation that ensures success in future educational endeavors. St. Helen’s curriculum includes STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, art and math) along with graphic art and Spanish in grades K–8.

Students participate in weekly liturgy and daily prayer. For a tour or to register, call (440) 564-7125 or email srmargaret@sthelen.com.

St. Mary School Chardon 401 North Street, Chardon (440) 286-3590 www.stmaryschoolchardon.org Faith. Family. Future.

Mary Petelin, principal at St. Mary School in Chardon, has many reasons to be proud of the school she heads. “Our mission is faith, family and a vision for the future.

We are fortunate too that many of our students here have parents and grandparents who are alumni, making us one, united spiritual family.”

They invite you to learn about the excellent academic, faith-filled education offered to students from preschool through eighth grade. Their academic programs and extracurricular activities are designed to stimulate curiosity, develop critical thinking, and foster the desire for lifelong learning. For the second year in a row, St. Mary School has been recognized as a Thomas Edison STEM award-winning school!

The science and language focused curriculum allows students to participate in local and national science, math, writing and art competitions including Science Olympiad, Young Authors, and National Honor Society. Junior high students have

St. Helen School

St. Helen School St. Helen School 12060 Kinsman Road • Newbury, OH 44065

12060 Kinsman Road • Newbury, OH 44065 440.564.7125 440.564.7125 440.564.7125 • www.st-helen-school.com www.st-helen-school.com www.st-helen-school.com

12060 Kinsman Road • Newbury, OH 44065

Making a Difference

St. Helen Catholic School is a faith-filled community which nurtures spiritual development, promotes academic excellence and fosters leadership skills for students in Preschool - Grade 8.

Call today to register your child or schedule a personal Making a Difference tour on the first Monday of each month.

St. Helen Catholic School is a faith-filled community which nurtures spiritual development, promotes academic excellence and fosters leadership skills for students in Preschool – Grade 8.

Call today to register your child or schedule a personal tour on the first Monday of each month

through teaching, learning, leading, and serving

Designated School

Come & Discover the Difference!

Register for Open Houses online or call

Oct 11 • Nov 15 • Dec 13 Special Kdg Open House: Dec 15/16 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

OCTOBER2016

19

Private School Guide their own laptops while lower grade students use tablets, Smartboards, and attend technology classes. CYO sports and service clubs, encourage students to acquire skills beyond the classroom.

Join them for upcoming free community events or schedule a personal tour!

St. Mary of the Assumption School & Wee Learn Preschool Program 8540 Mentor Avenue, Mentor (440) 255-9781 stmarysmentor.org/our-school Hand in Hand, Together, We Are One in Christ

aspects of education, building an active Christian community, and cultivating a responsibility for social justice.

Their core curriculum is offered along with a faith-based, technology-rich learning environment where all students have access to Chromebooks, iPads, and laptops.

All teachers utilize SMART board technology to enhance the learning experience.

St Mary’s also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and CYO sports programs.

Their parish community offers scholarships for students in need.

Students in 8th grade complete a 9th grade proficiency test and score, on average, one to three grades higher than the students in eastern region diocese schools.

Thomas Edison STEM Award Winning School

Private School Open Houses/ visitation days See ads on pages 12–21 and 28 for times and more information.

• ACTIVBoards in all classrooms • Daily use of iPads • Technology Lab • Classroom Computers • Integrated Technology Curriculum • 1:1 laptops in Junior High

CHALLENGING CURRICULUM

• STEM • Science Olympiad • Honors Classes • Spanish K-8 •CHALLENGING Choir, Band, Drama, ArtCURRICULUM • National Junior Honor Society STEM • ScienceFULL Olympiad Honors Classes • Spanish K-8 • NEW &•ACCREDITED TIME• AND EXPANDED PRESCHOOL OFFERINGS

• Choir, Band, Drama, Art • National Junior Honor Society • NEW & ACCREDITED FULL TIME AND EXPANDED PRESCHOOL OFFERINGS

FAITH AND SERVICE

• Daily Religion classes • Student-led Weekly Mass • Beacon of Light Ministry FAITH AND SERVICE • Service projects K-8 • S.T.A.N.D anti-bullying program • Retreats and Devotions

• Daily Religion classes • Student-led Weekly Mass • Beacon of Light Ministry • Service projects K-8 • S.T.A.N.D anti-bullying program • Retreats and Devotions

Like us on Facebook

April 6th ~ Learning Fair.

Come see student created artwork, Science Fair projects, young Like us onbooks Facebook authors and more at this celebration of learning accomplished throughout the year!

For more information or to sign up for any of these programs, visit our website: www.stmaryschoolchardon.org or call 440-286-3590

401 North Street, Chardon, OH 44024 • 440-286-3590 www.stmaryschoolchardon.org

Like us on Facebook

401 North Street, Chardon, 44024 • 440-286-3590 401 North Street, Chardon, OHOH 44024 • 440-286-3590 www.stmaryschoolchardon.org www.stmaryschoolchardon.org

TECHNOLOGY

• ACTIVBoards in all classrooms • Daily use of iPads • Technology Lab • Classroom Computers • Integrated Technology Curriculum TECHNOLOGY • 1:1 laptops in Junior High

• ACTIVBoards in all classrooms • Daily use of iPads • Technology Lab • Classroom Computers • Integrated Technology Curriculum • 1:1 laptops in Junior High

CHALLENGING CURRICULUM

• STEM • Science Olympiad • Honors Classes • Spanish K-8 •CHALLENGING Choir, Band, Drama, ArtCURRICULUM • National Junior Honor Society STEM • ScienceFULL Olympiad • AND Honors Classes • Spanish K-8 • NEW &•ACCREDITED TIME EXPANDED PRESCHOOL OFFERINGS

• Choir, Band, Drama, Art • National Junior Honor Society • NEW & ACCREDITED FULL TIME AND EXPANDED PRESCHOOL OFFERINGS

FAITH AND SERVICE

• Daily Religion classes • Student-led Weekly Mass • Beacon of Light Ministry FAITH AND SERVICE • Service projects K-8 • S.T.A.N.D anti-bullying program • Retreats and Devotions

• Daily Religion classes • Student-led Weekly Mass • Beacon of Light Ministry • Service projects K-8 • S.T.A.N.D anti-bullying program • Retreats and Devotions

Like us on Facebook

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Today’s Family Magazine OCTOBER2016 401 North Street, Chardon, 44024 • 440-286-3590 401 North Street, Chardon, OHOH 44024 • 440-286-3590 www.stmaryschoolchardon.org www.stmaryschoolchardon.org

Hawken School October 23, October 30

St. Gabriel School Oct. 11, Nov. 5, Dec. 13 St. Helen School Award Winning School Call to schedule a visit.

St. Mary Chardon January 29 St. Mary of the Assumption February 5

FREE COMMUNITY EVENTS FREE COMMUNITY EVENTS PRESENTED BY ST. MARY SCHOOL PRESENTED BY ST. MARY SCHOOL

SeptemberOctober 15th ~Parent 20th Education Series Nurturing the Whole Family Trunk or Treat Celebration!

Leave this night with practical techniques you can use to help guide your A family-friendly event that allows maximum mingling with student and family through a successful school year. Stress reduction, anxiety minimum walking. Cars will be parked in our lot, decorated for the manage-ment, behavior tips and research-based techniques. Co-presented by event and handing out candy and treats! Use your costume more than once!

Family Pride.

Local community groups welcome to participate.

January• Daily 29thReligion ~ Catholic Schools Week Pancake Breakfast classes • Student-led Weekly Mass • Beacon of Light Ministry • Service projects K-8 • S.T.A.N.D anti-bullying program • Retreats and Devotions & Open House Enjoy free pancakes and tours of the school. Learn more about the award winning STEM program at SMS.

Our Shepherd Lutheran School January 7

usmore for more education, funcommunity and community building through the year.

JoinJoin us for education, fun and building through the year.

St. Mary School• Is MAGIC! us for a “magical” STEM • ScienceJoin Olympiad • Honors Classes • evening Spanish K-8of fun for your little ones. This event geared toward families and children • Choir,isBand, Drama, Art • National Junior Honor Society ages 1-7. A full • NEW juggling, & ACCREDITED FULL TIME EXPANDED PRESCHOOL OFFERINGS magic show, hands-on arts,AND crafts and learning activities throughout the eve-ning. Come see NEW preschool options at St. Mary School.

FAITH AND SERVICE

Gilmour Academy October 9, November 9

Lawrence School Call to schedule a visit.

October 20th ~ Trunk or Treat Celebration!

TECHNOLOGY

Notre Dame Elementary Call to schedule a visit.

Laurel School October 16, January 7

student and family through a successful school year. Stress reduction, anxiety manage-ment, behavior tips and research-based techniques. Co-presented by

• ACTIVBoards in all classrooms • Daily use of iPads • Technology Lab • Classroom Computers • Integrated Technology Curriculum TECHNOLOGY • 1:1 laptops in Junior High

Andrews Osborne Academy October 16

Julie Billiart School Call to schedule a visit.

Family Pride. School Thomas Edison STEM Award Winning Thomas Edison STEM Award Winning School Thomas Edison STEM Award Winning School

November 3rd ~ Early Childhood Expo CHALLENGING CURRICULUM

Mater Dei October 19

Hershey Montessori School Thomas Edison STEM October 3, November 7

St. Mary of the Assumption School, a fully accredited and chartered by the state of Ohio Catholic School Accrediting Association, was founded in 1952. They offer classes for preschool–8th grade to serve Thomas Edison STEM Award Winning School the community.

The school is committed to their Thomas Edison STEM Award Winning School FREE COMMUNITY EVENTS Thomas Edison STEM School mission, "Hand InAward Hand,Winning Together, PRESENTED

BY ST. MARY SCHOOL Thomas Edison STEM Award Winning School Join us for more education, fun and community building through the year.

We Are One In Christ," by teaching September 15th ~Parent Education Series Nurturing the Whole Family the message of Jesus through all Leave this night with practical techniques you can use to help guide your

A family-friendly event that allows maximum mingling with minimum TECHNOLOGY walking. Cars will be parked in our lot, decorated for the eventLab and handing • ACTIVBoards in all classrooms • Daily use of iPads • Technology out candy and treats!

UseComputers your costume more than once!

Local community • Classroom • Integrated Technology Curriculum • 1:1 laptops into Junior High groups welcome participate.

All Saints School October 26

October 20th ~ Trunk 3rd or Treat Celebration!

November

A family-friendly event that allows maximum mingling with minimum TECHNOLOGY Early Childhood Expo walking. Cars will be parked in our lot, decorated for the eventLab and handing • ACTIVBoards in all classrooms • Daily use of iPads • Technology St. Mary School Is MAGIC! Join us for a “magical” evening ofLocal fun for out candy and treats!

UseComputers your costume more than once! community • Classroom • Integrated Technology Curriculum your little ones. This event groups is geared toward and children ages 1-7.

• 1:1 laptops infamilies Junior High welcome to participate.

A full magic show, juggling, hands-on arts, crafts and learning activities November 3rd ~theEarly Childhood Expo throughout evening.

CHALLENGING CURRICULUM St. Mary School Is MAGIC! Join us for a “magical” evening • STEM • Science Olympiad • Honors Spanish K-8of fun for your Come see NEW preschool options at St.Classes Mary•School. little ones. This event geared toward families and children • Choir,isBand, Drama, Art • National Junior Honor Society ages 1-7. A full January • NEW juggling, & ACCREDITED FULL TIME AND EXPANDED PRESCHOOL OFFERINGS magic show, hands-on arts,29th crafts and learning activities throughout the eve-ning.

Come see NEW preschool options at St. Mary School.

Catholic Schools Week Pancake Breakfast

FAITH AND SERVICE

& OpenSchools House January• Daily 29th ~ Catholic Week Pancake Breakfast Religion classes • Student-led Weekly Mass • Beacon of Light Ministry Enjoy free•pancakes and tours of the school.

Learn more about the award Service projects K-8 • S.T.A.N.D anti-bullying program • Retreats and Devotions & Open House winning STEM program at SMS. Enjoy free pancakes and tours of the school. Learn more about the award STEM program at SMS. Aprilwinning 6th ~ Learning Fair.

Come see student created artwork, Science Fair April 6th ~ Learningprojects, Fair. young authorsCome bookssee andstudent more atcreated this celebration of learning accomplished artwork, Science Fair projects, young throughout the year!

Like us on Facebook authors books and more at this celebration of learning accomplished For more information or to sign up for any the of these throughout year!programs, visit our website: www.stmaryschoolchardon.org or 440-286-3590 For more information or to sign up for any call of these programs, visit our website: www.stmaryschoolchardon.org or call 440-286-3590

401 North Street • Chardon, Ohio 44024 • 440-286-3590 401www.stmaryschoolchardon.org North Street, Chardon, OH 44024 • 440-286-3590 www.stmaryschoolchardon.org

Private School Guide

What to discuss during parent-teacher conferences

By Huntington Learning Center

I

t doesn’t take long for a new school year to get into full swing—and for both you and your child’s teacher to gain some insight into your child’s school performance. Albert Groen of the Mentor and University Heights, Huntington Learning Centers encourages parents to pay close attention to how their children are doing in school from the very start of the year and develop a list of talking points for the first parent-teacher conference.

“Parents should think of the parent-teacher conference as a twoway conversation,” he says. “It’s a chance for them to not just take in information about their children, but to share it as well in order to foster their children’s long-term success.”

Groen suggests that parents think about several things in anticipation of the fall conference: Progress since last year – For the first parent-teacher conference of the year, it’s important to spend a little time talking about your child’s academic baseline at the beginning of the year and how he or she is progressing so far. If you notice any lingering problems from last year, continued struggles with subjects that have proved challenging in prior grades, or other issues, you should check in with the teacher on his or her observations and how they compare. The conference should be used to talk about your child’s cumulative growth—in addition to this school year’s progress—and the best ways for you to help him or her meet gradelevel standards and expectations this year.

Skill gaps – Some school problems stem from gaps of knowledge—a “building block” skill that your child did not master in a previous grade.

It’s not always easy for parents to detect these types of problems, but you and your teacher can look for

red flags. As the workload gradually increases each week into the school year, pay attention to grades on tests, worksheets and school work that comes home. At homework time, take note of how long homework takes and your child’s frustration level.

Expectations of your child – If you and your child have laid out any goals for the school year, the conference is a good time to share those with the teacher and evaluate how your child is advancing toward them so far. Hopefully during the first month or two of school you’ll get a sense of what the teacher expects of your child, but if anything is unclear—such as grading policies or the appropriate amount of time for homework—plan to talk about it at the parent-teacher conference.

Ways you can be supportive – Remember that you and your child’s teacher have the same goal in mind: helping your child succeed. As the school year progresses, there might be times you feel uncertain about how best to support your child at home.

Share with your child’s teacher the ways you help your child currently and ask for suggestions on anything else you can do to cultivate your child’s independence, nurture his or her growth and reinforce classroom teachings.

Parent-teacher conferences are a great opportunity for parents to hear directly from teachers how school is going for their children and share what they’re seeing as well—and they are essential to the parent-teacher relationship. “A communicative schoolhome partnership can make such an enormous difference for children,” says Groen. “For parents, conferences are a great chance to talk about and compare observations, concerns and expectations. Preparing for them thoughtfully will help parents gain the most from the conversation for the benefit of their children.”

Our Our Shepherd Shepherd Lutheran Lutheran School School

37th academic year of “Inspiring Excellence” with Our Shepherd Lutheran School!

• Kindergarten through eighth grade • Full-day, 5-day kindergarten program • Daily religion classes • Weekly chapel services • Library / media center • Computer technology • Mobile Chromebook lab

• Music / choir / band • Accelerated reading program • S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics) • Middle school enrichment program quarterly modules of elective-style courses

Joyfully serving Lake, Geauga, and Ashtabula counties Call or email our admissions counselor, Stephanie DeGidio, at (440) 357-7776 sdegidio@oslpainesville.org

Watch for our upcoming community events!

Fall Festival - October 6, 2016 Grade 1–8 Open House - January 7, 2017 Kindergarten Orientation - January 28, 2017

Find out what makes Our Shepherd Lutheran School a Great Place to Grow!

Our Shepherd Lutheran School 508 Mentor Ave., Painesville, OH 44077 (440) 357-7776 OSLpainesville.org Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

21

Fall Harvest Weekends at Lake Metroparks Farmpark

Hershey Montessori Arts Fest returns November 12

Dozens of great fun activities for kids of all ages!

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.

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 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 applies.

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.

The 5th annual Hershey Montessori Arts Fest will be held Saturday, November 12 from 9 am to 4 pm at Hershey Montessori School, 10229 Prouty Road in Concord Twp. This celebration of local fine arts and crafts for sale is open to the public. It features incredible items for sale emphasizing community artists and crafters. Many artisans create using organic and upcycled materials.

The artists have reported in years past that this is their favorite show of the season. There are delicious and wholesome items for breakfast and lunch in the café, as well as opportunities to win prizes and raffles. There is a children's art and creativity area, as well.

Admission is $3, under 6 years of age are free. Bring the whole family for a day of fun and get a jump on holiday shopping.. Call 440-357-0918 or visit hershey-montessori.org for more information.

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 22

Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

Lake County Department of Job and Family Services

Discover traditional family fun at Patterson’s Fun Fest

By Mary Flenner

I

n an age where most kids have their own iPad—and communicate with their friends via texts, Snaps and selfies— it’s nice to get back to the basics.

And enjoying a beautiful fall day at the farm is an experience that still can’t be rivaled.

Patterson Fruit Farm hosts an annual Fun Fest that is aimed at bringing families together over traditional activities. Here, families can unplug and enjoy things like corn mazes, apple picking and pumpkin painting—all with the irresistible scent of fresh kettle corn and warm apple cider wafting in the air. Fall in northeast Ohio doesn’t get much more picturesque.

While Patterson’s Farm Market is open year-round, their seasonal Fun Fest runs for a few weeks and offers lots of activities for families. This year’s event runs through October 30.

If it has been awhile since you attended the festival please note that it is no longer held at their Caves Road location. Due to its popularity, Fun Fest was moved to their location at 8765 Mulberry Road, just a few miles away.

“I think young families are looking to give their kids the same traditional experiences they had growing up,” says owner Nancy Patterson.

“We wanted the festival to be something the whole family could do together, as opposed to parents sitting back and just observing.

And with four acres of activities, there really is something for every age to have fun and get involved with,” she continues.

This fifth generation, familyowned farm in Chesterland is just a short drive from the suburbs, but you'll feel a world away, and perhaps even like you’ve taken a step back in time.

The fest started simply, 24 years ago, with their pumpkins and a few bales of hay for kids to play on.

However, they quickly noticed that families were looking for an excuse to stick around longer and for more to do. In response, new activities, toys and play areas were slowly added. While the festival continues

to grow, they avoid overcrowding by spacing out activities across their land.

All the play equipment is handmade, including their enormous wooden tractor, tree house, red silo and 50-foot slide. There are 14 total slides, a sand canoe, tire swings, handmade go-carts, a 1.5-mile walking trail and pony rides. There are also real tractors and a combine that kids can climb in.

Nancy says one of her favorite parts is watching kids play in the hay bale pavilion, which houses hundreds of bales of hay. "They’re so happy just to sit there and take their time feeling the hay, with no one telling them what to do, or to hurry up. They're in their own little world—enjoying the experience.

And that’s what it’s all about.”

“I can’t remember the last time my kids had so much fun doing such simple things,” one visitor said.

"As each generation becomes a little more removed from traditional farm life, it’s important to

have experiences like these. Some kids have no idea what a farm even looks like. They're shocked when they arrive. Here they can see the orchards, touch the trees, pick the apples and understand where their food comes from,” says Patterson.

Patterson’s Fun Fest hours are Monday through Thursday 10 AM to 6 PM, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. Week-

day admission is $5.00 per person, weekends are $8.00 per person.

Children two and younger are free.

Visitors can pack a picnic or enjoy one of Patterson’s seasonal treats, like their renowned apple fritters.

Get more information online at www.PattersonFarm.com or call 440-729-1964.

NEW! Phone: 440-729-1964 8765 Mulberry Road, Chesterland

Open Daily Sept. 17 - Oct. 30

CREATE YOUR EXPERIENCE:

DANCE BEAT, SKATE PARK, ROLLERCOASTER AND MORE

NOW THROUGH JANUARY 2, 2017

For families to enjoy spending time together having creative fun in the out of doors!

Patterson’s Farm Market

OPEN DAILY YEAR ROUND! Phone: 440-729-1964 11414 Caves Road, Chesterland

Pick your own Apples, Pumpkins Galore,

Two days of hauntingly fun science for the entire family

Fresh Apple Cider,

Pies, Donuts & Fritters!

www.pattersonfarm.com

Free with paid admission!

OCTOBER 22 & 23

Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

23

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 • Next 12-week session begins early December

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 early December 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

24

Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

Youth NFL Flag Football November 5th thru January 7th

Aviators Basketball

Next session starts April 2017

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.

•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!

The misunderstood child: Sensory processing disorder

family health

By Sarah Lyons A typical morning in my home begins with the words, “My clothes hurt me. They are too loose. I need new clothes.” As a result, I begin the search for the “right” clothes for my 4-year-old daughter. After much time, many tears, lots of tight hugs, and a good dose of frustration, she begins her day in the same dress she wore the day prior and many days prior to that. The process of getting dressed, which seems simple to most, is the biggest challenge my child faces on a daily basis.

This situation is one example of what living with a child with sensory processing disorder (SPD) is like.

“Imagine being in an environment where the noise around you is amplified to the highest level, the temperature is the coldest or hottest you have ever felt, you are wearing the most uncomfortable clothing that has ever touched your skin, and you are nauseated by a repulsive smell. All at the same time. What would be your response? Most would quickly escape the situation,” says Dana Lyons, occupational therapist. “These are examples of what a child with sensory processing disorder feels, but they cannot escape the symptoms. As a result, these children may respond with anger, frustration, or ultimately avoid situations which may cause a breakdown.”

Sensory processing is a term that refers to the way the nervous system receives messages from the senses and turns them into appropriate motor and behavioral responses.

“Everyone processes sensory input, but some people process it differently than others,” says Carrie Grosdidier, occupational therapist. “When the processing of this information interferes with our ability to function on a day to day basis is when we have a problem.”

SPD can be hard to diagnose because it affects each person dif-

ferently. “Any of the five senses can be affected by being hypersensitive (over-stimulated) or by being hyposensitive (under-stimulated),” says Lyons.

A hypersensitive response to sensory input may include: - Distracted by noises that sound normal to others (flushing toilets, clanking silverware) - Fear of surprise touch or avoid hugs - Avoids swings and playground equipment that others enjoy - Has poor balance, falls often A hyposensitive response to sensory input may include: - A constant need to touch people or textures - An extremely high tolerance to pain - May often harm other children and/or pets when playing, doesn’t understand own strength - Fidgety and unable to sit still, enjoys movement based play such as spinning, jumping, swinging etc.

- Seems to be a “thrill seeker” and can be dangerous at times Children can have one or many of these characteristics as well as some from each category and in varying degrees of severity.

“Unfortunately, these responses are viewed by others as children behaving badly when in fact they are not,” Lyons says. “The most important thing to understand is that children with SPD are not “bad” children. They are simply trying to survive in their own skin, in a world with heightened or lowered sensations. Typical punishment for “bad” behavior is not optimal and can cause regression rather than progression.”

Stephanie Beaudry, mom of two children with SPD says, “When trying to explain my son’s hyperactivity or clumsiness is due to SPD, we get told ‘Oh it’s just his age’ but it’s actually because his nervous system doesn’t respond as it should in certain situations.” SPD may cause motor clumsiness, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, or other impacts if not treated effectivity.

SPD does create challenges for families, but there is treatment available for kids who struggle with it.

“We had a fabulous occupational

therapist that helped my son. She gave us tools and gave him permission to figure out what worked for him and what didn’t,” says Joy Alsup, mom of four. “He has a high need for tight, long hugs and we understand that this is what helps him. It’s a huge priority for us.”

With the help of an occupational therapist, kids with SPD can find tools that help them balance sensory input. Activities may include swinging, wearing a weighted vest, pushing or pulling heavy objects across the room, or jumping on a trampoline. Many of these activities are fun for the child and can be integrated into playtime at home.

“The therapy helps more than just their physical strengths but also their emotional strengths,” says Beaudry.

“When my daughter first started therapy, she was extremely shy. She wouldn’t even talk to children her own age when they approached her. Now, four months later, she is a social butterfly.”

An occupational therapist’s main

goal is to educate parents about SPD and give families tools they can use to help the child progress at home. Although families that deal with SPD may have struggles with things other people see as “normal” activities, many parents find hope in their child’s progress and support from other parents dealing with this disorder.

“One thing I have learned after experiencing our journey is that I am not alone. There are so many others that understand what I am going through and we are there to support each other in many ways,” says Beaudry.

It takes a lot of patience, persistence, and love to parent a child with SPD, but when a child feels acceptance and supported, they can work through their struggles, and thrive in school and at home.

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

OCTOBER2016

25

calendar

October Patterson's Family Fun Fest Now through October 30 8765 Mulberry Rd., Chesterland See page 23 for info!

Willoughby Hills Craft Show Sat., October 8 • 9 am– 3 pm Willoughby Hills Community Center 35400 Chardon Road Over 65 vendors of hand-crafted items only. Raffles throughout the day. No admission fee.

Get an early start on your holiday shopping.

Tween Time Art @ WMS Wed., October 12 • 2:30 pm Wickliffe Public Library 440-944-6010 Every Wednesday after school at 2:30 pm for 5th-8th graders.

If no special theme is advertised, join in for snacks, socializing, and fun activities.

Registration required only for themed programs. Stop by the children’s desk or call to register.

All the Arts Camp Fri., October 14 • 9 am–3 pm The Fine Arts Association 38660 Mentor Ave., Willoughby Have a day off school? Come to Fine Arts for fun! Kids in grades K–5 will enjoy hands-on arts explorations in dance, music, visual arts and theatre in this awesome one-day camp.

Cost: $45/camper; before camp care available from 8–9 am for $5 per camper.

Call 440-951-7500 or visit www.fineartsassociation.org to register and for further info.

Jump Into Fall Days October 15 & 16 • 1-5 pm Swine Creek Reservation Woods Edge Shelter 16004 Hayes Road Middlefield Township 440-286-9516 www.geaugaparkdistrict.org Celebrate autumn with handson activities for all ages: free horse-drawn wagon rides, kayaking, fishing, face painting and balloon creations, harvest bounty treats for sale and much more.

Wagon rides are first come, first served 1-4 pm. Partially wheelchair/stroller accessible.

Special Needs Storytime Tuesday, October 18 • 6:30 pm Eastlake Library 36706 Lake Shore Boulevard 440-942-7880 This storytime, specifically for children with special needs, features stories, rhymes, songs and other engaging activities in a welcoming environment. All ages welcome!

WhoDunnit?: Cleveland Edition Thursday, October 20 • 6 pm Mentor Library (Main Branch) 8215 Mentor Avenue 440-255-8811 Join in for a life-sized game of Clue, Cleveland style. The key to the First Bank of Cleveland has been stolen! There are six suspects with motive to steal the key. Travel from room to room, including popular Cleveland area attractions, as you hunt for clues.

If your team discovers who took the key and where they took it to, you win the game! Registration is required. Families are encouraged to attend.

www.creativelearningcare.com ENROLL NOW FOR FALL PROGRAMS! Eastlake

(440) 954-9548

36100 Portage Dr. (near Surfside off Lakeshore)

Streetsboro (330) 562-2262

• Free tuition for those qualified • Free transportation from public schools before & after school • Two acres of outdoor playground (Eastlake) • 6 weeks through 12 years 26

Today’s Family Magazine

Latchkey Program • Educational curriculum • Infant, toddler, preschool & school age programs • Hot lunches & nutritious snacks • Over 46 years in operation • Degreed & certified teachers OCTOBER2016

Paint Fun for Kids Fri., October 21 • 6–8:30 pm The Fine Arts Association 38660 Mentor Ave., Willoughby Kids ages 8–12 will end their week with friends, pizza, and an original work of art! All materials and pizza dinner are included in workshop fee. Cost: $32.

Call 440-951-7500 or log on to www.fineartsassociation.org to register and for further information.

Bowling for Bites Sunday, October 23 • 1-5 pm Game of Mentor 7300 Palisades Pkwy., Mentor 440-946-5131 Featuring two hours of bowling, light refreshments, contests and raffles. The cost to bowl is $20 per person.

Proceeds to benefit The National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias (NFED) which is dedicated to serving individuals affected by ED syndromes. The EDs are a group of more than 150 syndromes causing the hair, nails, teeth and glands to develop and function abnormally.

For more information about the ED syndromes or Bowling for Bites, contact Dawn at 440-7960529.

Fall Festival & Resource Fair Tue., October 25 • 5:30–7:30 pm Crossroads Early Childhood Services 1083 Mentor Avenue, Painesville 440-358-7370 Join in for an evening of family fun. Come in costume! Featuring community resource info, program enrollment opportuni-

LEARN THRIVE Child Care LAKE COUNTY YMCA CENTRAL Y (Painesville) Preschool, School-Age Painesville City 440.352.3303

EAST END Y (Madison) Preschool, School-Age Madison 440.428.5125

ties, prize drawings, pumpkins, crafts, face painting, treats and more.

Antique Toys and Diecast Show Sat., October 29 • 9 am–2 pm Lakeland Community College 216-470-5780 www.neocollectibletoys.com New and antique toys, diecast models, plastic models and dolls.

Buy, sell or trade. This is a great show for model train collectors to add diecast models to their layouts.

There will be toy collection boxes at the show. Please help those less fortunate by donating new, in the package (unwrapped), toys. Please no stuffed animals.

Lake County Juvenile Diabetes Walk Family (JDRF) will also be part of the show. Join them in trying to find a cure for diabetes.

Adults $6.00 each, children $2.00 (6–12).

November Christmas Craft Boutique Friday, Nov. 11 • 6–9 pm Saturday, Nov. 12 • 9 am–3 pm St. Gabriel School 9935 Johnnycake Ridge Road Concord Township St. Gabriel School’s Parent Teacher Union is hosting its annual Christmas Craft Boutique!

Come and experience the high quality of craftsmanship of over 100 inspired artisans! Get a head start on holiday shopping with unique, one-of-a-kind gifts!

Admission is $5.00 for 13 and older. For more information, email ptufundraisers@gmail.com.

In Child Care at the Y, parents feel confident their kids are in a safe, caring and educational environment and . . . the kids can’t wait to see their “teachers” and play with friends.

WEST END Y (Willoughby) Preschool, School-Age Willoughby 440.946.1160

PERRY CHILD CARE CENTER Infant, Toddler, Preschool School-Age Perry 440.259.4596

For more details visit us online at www.lakecountyymca.org

Fostering A Child

Whether buying or selling, Once Upon A Child is the place to go!

By the Lake County Department of Job and Family Services

Fall Festival & Resource Fa

Sibling boys adjust to life with foster/adoptive parents The spotlight this month is on a sibling group of three children–– Steve, Tyler and Matt. They are three brothers ranging in age from 10 (Steve) to 3 (Matt) and each of them have significant medical and/ or mental health needs. Steve suffers from a heart problem that requires routine medical appointments to monitor the situation. Tyler is diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome but is high functioning. Matt was somewhat behind in meeting his milestones. The boys entered into foster care because their needs weren’t being met and the two oldest boys were missing too much school.

After nearly two years in foster care, Lake County received permanent custody of the boys and their foster parents, who were dually approved as adoptive parents, were happy to adopt them. Despite the fact that the boys had been with the foster family for almost two years, the understanding that they were not going home to their birth parents caused Steve significant anxiety and he began to act out and regress in some behaviors.

Their adoptive mother recalls thinking that she thought their family was “over the hump” after the first couple of months of their initial adjustment into the home, but she was wrong. Although she received ongoing training about the different issues in foster care and adoption, she just didn’t think that it would happen to her after caring for the children for such a long period of time. Not only was the family still dealing with old problems, they had a whole new set of issues to address and work through.

Steve loved his foster/adoptive parents, but he also loved his birth parents too which caused a lot of

For all Lake county residents

stress and anxiety for him. He demonstrated his feelings through tantrums, becoming a bully to his younger brothers and refusing to behave at school. He began spending time in detention and was suspended Kid’s Stuff with Previous Experience® two times for starting fights with other children. This was new behavInfant to size 14 ior to Steve, who his adoptive father Furniture • Toys called “the nicest, sweetest kid you Shoes • Accessories would ever want to know.”

The family increased counseling Equipment • Books with Steve and met regularly with Playroom the school to monitor his progress there. The family also needed to We Pay Cash!

Any Purchase of $25 or more become more consistent with Steve We buy up to 1 hour regarding his behaviors in the home before closing Infant to size 14 Regular price only. Expires 10/31/16. One coupon per customer. and especially regarding his siblings.

No Appointment Necessary Through counseling, it came to light MENTOR COLONIAL PLAZA WESTLAKE that Steve thought the reason he 7537 Mentor Avenue 25028 Center Ridge couldn’t go home was because his 440-951-7222 440-899-1100 adoptive family said they wanted Mon.-Sat. 10-8 • Sun. 12-5 Mon.-Sat. 9-7 • Sun. 12-5 to adopt him. After processing that it was about their biological parents, Steve’s behaviors decreased somewhat. After the adoption occurred, he still struggled with issues regarding his birth family and in his relationships with his siblings and adoptive parents. Per his adoptive For all Lake County residents mother, they loved him and would Tuesday, October 25 • 5:30–7:30 pm never have given up on him despite how hard things got.

Please join us for an If you are interested in becoming a foster and/or adoptive parent, please evening of family fun! call the Foster Care/Adoption Inquiry Come in costume!!!

Line, Lake County Department of Job and Family Services at (440) 350• Community resource 4218 or email Eugene.Tetrick@jfs.ohio. info gov. They will be happy to answer your questions and send you information • Program enrollment about foster care and adoption. The opportunities Lake County Department of Job and (limited quantity) • Prize drawings Family Services is in need of families who would be willing to care for teenCrossroads Early Childhood Services crafts, • Pumpkins*, agers. Tell them you heard about foster painting,Ave. treats 1083 face Mentor parenting in Today's Family!

Tuesday October 25th 5:30pm—7:30pm

Participating agencies will be available with enrollment and program inform

Crossroads * Starting Point * Big Brothers Big Sisters of Fall Savings Coupon

Family Planning Association * Lake Geauga United Head St

$5 OFF

Lake County General Health District * Lake County Free C

Catholic Charities * Lake Health Wellness Institute * Birth

Lakeland Dental Hygiene Clinic * Auburn Career Center A

Lake County Help Me Grow * Lakeland Women’s Cente

Forbes House * Lake County JobsFall and Festival Family Services * Life

& Resource FairSupport G Beacon Health * The Lake/Geauga County Autism

Please join us for an evening of Family Fun Come in Costume!!!

*Activities for children * Prize drawings for parent * Pumpkins

Are you playing  Face Painting with fire?  Cra�s Plan ahead protect your family  toGiveaways should disaster strike.  Treats See story at www.todaysfamilymagazine.com.

and more! OH Painesville, 440-358-7370 *limited quantity

 Open to the Public  Program enrollment Crossroads Early Childhood Services opportunities 1083 MentorAve., Painesville Community Resource 440-358-7370 Today’s Family Magazine

OCTOBER2016

27

Join us for one of our upcoming Visitors’ Days

Day and boarding options available!

at our Huntsburg Campus, home of our Middle School (ages 12–15) and Upper School (ages 15–18) Adolescent Community.

October 3 • November 7 • December 5 • February 6 • March 6 • May 1 9:00 AM–11:00 AM • Get an overview of our Middle and Upper School programs and curriculum • Learn about our rich Montessori education • Tour our 100-acre campus located in rural Huntsburg

Reservations are required: Admissions@Hershey-Montessori.org or call 440-636-6290 www.Hershey-Montessori.org Concord Campus 10229 Prouty Road Concord, OH 44077 Birth–6th Grade

Huntsburg Campus 11530 Madison Road Huntsburg, OH 44046 7th–12th Grade