March 2022

March/April 2022

Our Guide to 419 Childcare & Preschools, P9 Food Fights A Tougen Takeout Date Night, P24

guide

Summer Camps Your Kids Will Love!

P15

Meet Our Cover Kid, Jasper!

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• March/April 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

Toledo’s Award-Wining Parent Newspaper Volume 30  Issue 1  MAR/APR 2021

March & April

ONLINE The Power of Being a Foster Parent

by Andrew Kersten Learn how to help kids in need

How to Find Time to Read with Little Ones in the House

by Rebecca Hastings

Sibshops Supports Kids Who Have Siblings with Disabilities

by Laurie Bertke

Creative tips to settle in with a good book

A valuable program by the Sibling Support Project

Meet Jasper:

Congratulations to the winner of our January/ February giveaway, Cheressa Partee!

Winner of our Cover Kid Contest!

We asked Jasper’s mom to tell us a little bit more about the adorable cover kid’s favorite things.

Here’s what she shared!

Age: 16 months old.

What is his favorite game?

Peek-a-boo behind the curtains!

Toy that he can’t live without: The ball pit in the basement playroom!

Song he can’t stop singing: Patty cake.

What is his favorite place to play in Toledo? He loves the Toledo Zoo!!

Enter to win parent.com! today at toledo

This month’s giveaway prize is a must-have for parents on the go! The adaptable SideKick® Plus 3-in-1 Hip Seat Carrier makes carrying easier and more comfortable for moms, dads, and their precious cargo. Thanks to its multifunctional design, the SideKick® Plus can be used independently as an infant carrier and hip seat so two caregivers can each carry a child, providing convenient, extended use for growing families. The International Hip Dysplasia Institute acknowledges SideKick® Plus as a “hip-healthy” product when used as directed.

Enter to win today at toledoparent.com!

Cover Kid Hometown: Northwood.

Giveaway

Jasper also absolutely LOVES to hang out in the gym with his dad. He loves chasing his doggies around (Bailey is a four-year-old red husky and Roxy is a 10-year-old pitbull). His favorite movies are Aladdin, Moana and Frozen. He loves playing with all of his cousins and is the happiest and busiest toddler ever!

Photo courtesy of Kelli Miller Photography and Design

Correction to “BGSU Student Creates MagnaHalter for Riders with Disabilities”— In our January/February Exceptional Families article, we made an error about how the MagnaHalter was funded. To clarify, Ed Reiter contributed $10,000 and Mark West, Sara Yarger’s business partner, gave her the rest of the investment.

www.toledoparent.com • March/April 2022 •

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KIDS

letter from the EDITOR

In Like a Lion, Out Like a Ram

Adams Street Publishing Co.

ASTROLOGY

by Kimmie Rose

Looking ahead to new growth this spring

What’s your best memory from Spring Breaks past?

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) Driving in our un-air conditioned station wagon to Florida and seeing Miami Beach for the first time.

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer

Letter from the EDITOR

Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) A trip to DC to see our Nation’s Capital. My mom got us all tiny spiral notebooks to keep a journal. That kept us kids intently focused!

Editorial Kids Astrology

Assignment Editor:

Adams Street Publi

Rose December 22-January 19 By Kimmie Erin Holden (toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Going to New Orleans for Mardi Gras a What couple is of your favorite Capricorns are truly some of the holiday traditio years ago! It fell during Spring Break that year. most adaptable children of the zodiac!

This adaptability is a good quality, as Returning to Pre-Pandemic Traditions Publisher/Editor in Chi the child figures out ways to make an Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledopare CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN FLORID unexpected situation into a positive THE FAMILY, BUT THIS YEAR WILL BE DI Staff Writer: experience. Your child was born with SINCE WE’RE AWAITNG THE ARRIVAL Jeff McGinnis (mcginnis@adamsstreetpublishing.com) FIRST GRANDCHILD! A trip to Florida. Epcot and the natural talent of turning stressful Hollywood Studios, baby.

Co-publisher/Chief Finan situations into something that will be Contributing Writers: Officer grounded and without a lot of drama.

Erin Holden, Elizabeth Inman, Jeff McGinnis, Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toled Kimmie Rose, Mishal Charania, Andrew Kersten, That will come in handy CHRISTMAS ALE. Julie Pompa, Autumn Vasquez, Erin Marsh, because there are a few situations that Editorial Mary Rose Kulczak, Molly Klima, Emily Remaklus ASSIGNMENT EDIT will get in your child’s way this month. October 23 Erin Holden Be forewarned: The planet Mars is November Advertising (toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpu 21 WEARING UGLY CHRISTMAS S Account Executives: playing with your child’s emotions and, Gabbie Huff (ghuff@adamsstreetpublishing.com) STAFF WRITER while your grounded child seemsThis likemonth brings Taking trippassion to Chicago outathe andwith cre- my class in high Jeff McGinnis school, visiting museums and exploring everything is fine, they will be ativity in your mysterious andcity sometimes (mcginnis@adamsstreetpublishi the with friends.

SEEING MY NIECES SMILE WHEN THEY challenged with issues of trust and quiet Scorpio child.

DoHunter you ever get adamsstreetpublishing.com) that Bonnie (bhunter@ DIGITAL MEDIA feelings of being left out. Focus on asleep on the feeling that inside thatfalling mysterious mind is beach.

Nate Light a creative genius?Jenny This Leach is the (jleach@adamsstreetpublishing.com) blessing of the energy of “temporary” and take (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpub ICEBALL FIGHTS. Spending time with my son planning Easter being of a Scorpio. Get closer advantage of being able to teach yourthe parent egg scavenger hunts for the kids IN my family. to them by watching them discover their DIGITAL MARKETING & SOC strong-minded Capricorn child different Margot Jacobs talents through experience. (margot@adamsstreetpublish ways to adapt to change. This is surely WRAPPING PRESENT This month, Scorpios will illuminate their ina month that your child will soakner uppassions. a Here’s a suggestion: pick up CONTRIBUTING WRI lot of lessons that can be really fun forcanvas, colored pencils, stencils, an Erin Holden, Amelia Roberts, Tayl an art you as a parent and advantageous for a table cover, paint, brushes and a Vasquez, Jeff McGinnis, Kimmie Ro apron, Julie Pompa, Mary Rose Kulczak is the time seasons, of year when plans for family visits. Who oming from a place that doesn’t haveThis well-defined I’veI start to solidify your family. sponge. Put the tablecloth over your table, Kimberly Feldkamp, Emily Remakl going to Thanksgiving at our house? Will we be making an 18-hour developed a deep appreciation for is winters inspend Toledo.

It was hardErin Schoen Mars and set up a creative space for(jlebert@ them to exJaclyn Lebert adamsstreetpublishing.com) road trip to see my that parents for Christmas?

Last year threw all of those joyous earned. When I first experienced living in this place is grey and Advertising snorkeling in catamaran press themselves.

Scorpio children love to into a flat feeling of disconnect. Holiday traditions went by the cold and snowy during winter, it was earlyanticipations 2018. My husband assured me that SALES explore new things.

Tell them that you just Jon Smith (jsmith@ adamsstreetpublishing.com) wayside as we all just tried to stay safe and make it through without engaging Suzanne Bell (sbell@adamsstreetp going to pensacola, fl.

“March comes in like a lion, and goes out like a lamb.” Right. By mid-April, I wanted to have some fun drawing, paintPREPARING ALL THE FAVORITE FOOD F in super-spreader events. For me, it was a lot of watching bad Christmas roming and that they can too. Leave it set up thought, “Will I be able to go outside without a on winter coat EVER?” my get-togethers. coms Netflix and missingPlus, my family Gabrielle Huff (ghuff@adamsstree Art/Production for a week and you will see them (on their skin was drying up like a carelessly dropped,This long forgotten raisin.

DECORATING OUR CHRISTMAS TRE year is all about reclaiming that connectivity with our family. In this Production Manager: CHRISTMAS DINNER WITH MY FA own time) delving into their inner expresBut then, an amazing thing happened. I issue, walked outside in a sundress onemaintaining family ties, like our Digital we’ve included stories about Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) sion.

Bonnie Hunter (bhunter@adamsstreetpub day and everything around me was blooming, the sun wasDishtory, shining,anthere Age article about app was that promotes togetherness through cookwriting letters to megan while I was WATCHING MOVIES. traveling down south. ing andIsharing family recipes. In addition to our annual Holiday Happenings a soft breeze, and — most strikingly — everyone met had an expression of Senior Designer: Jenny Leach (jleach@adamsstreetpublis and Gift Guide, we filled the pages with hopeful stories, including the feature pure bliss — spring was finally here. Toledo winters can still be intense for 22 to DECORATING OUR CHRISTMAS TREE W January 20-February 18 November (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Leah Foley on Fia, anand organization that builds among mothers.

Learning21 to surf in SantaKIDDOS Cruz.WAS ALWAYS MY FAVORITE! A me, but I’ve learned to greet them with acceptance joy, knowing that Icommunity will December NOW, SO MISS IT! will be an that exciting month for You’ll also find resources to help you navigate This tough decisions moms Digital Media: appreciate the warm weather even more after hibernating for months. I’ve youis and From my own Nate Light (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Art/Productio tend to feel intense conflict about, including theboth “breast best”your topic,child. with lolearned that a change in perspective and, acal decent moisturizer, make all Seeing Cirque du Soleil (Beatles LOVE) in Las Vegas. experience Aquarian experts sharing different points of view, plus resources toas getan you through child with Digital Marketing and Social Media: the difference. what is often a tricky postpartum adjustment. imaginary friends (that I didn’t think Margot Jacobs (margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com) As I’m writing this, I’m cozy in my sweater with a you hot cup of green at to help you Whether are looking fortea tools on your parenting journey Singing Rocky Raccoon in a dive bar on a last weren’t so imaginary), my parents were minute trip to Berkley Springs, West Virginia. my side, occasionally looking out the window at aforblanket snow, scene or tips holidayoffun, we a know you’ll find inspiration ourwould November/ supportiveinand play along. If PRODUCTION MANA issue. that quiets me and makes me feel at home December in stillness.

Spring, on the other Administration Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreet your child asks an imaginative question, Accounting: SWEET POTATO SOUFF hand, energizes me. like “Could I dig my way to China?”

Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledocitypaper.com) Happy SENIOR DESIGNE This issue of Toledo Parent offers up articles thatHolidays! will energize you too, Took the kids down to a small place in read articles together on the subject.

Ft. Myers, Florida called the AnchorLeah Inn. Foley (leah@adamsstreetpu particularly when it comes to wellness for XOXO, your children, regardless of what BLACK FRIDAY SHOPPIN As your Aquarius is a humanitarian, Distribution: stage they are in. From our feature story on responsive feeding for infants to addressing questions about the Your Sagittarius child (distribution@toledocitypaper.com) Karena wasAdams born with a curiErin Holden Administratio a trip to Florida and Walt Disney World. our piece on speech delays due to COVID,Assignment we’ve included ous mind andDefinitely will always want to explore ephemeral nature of life is very imporEditor resources to help ACCOUNTING you make the best decisions for your family.

Additionally, Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@to beyond Mom and Dad’s limits; however, Toledo Area Parent we’ve included tant. This is a great time to give your OUR FAMILY OUTING TO CUT guides for local childcare facilities, preschools and summer camps to help you child hands-on experiences, like they also want direction from Mom and FRESH CHRISTMAS TR Dad about what is, and whatInfo isn’t, good plan ahead.

Advertising/General sending money to help a cause.

DISTRIBUTION For advertising and general information, call 419/244-9859 for them. They are the future teachers, sciTo celebrate local businesses, visit toledoparent.com to vote for Family FaKarena Adams (distribution@adamsst If your Aquarian is considering who or fax 419/244-9871. E-mail ads to adsin@adamsstreetpubentists, researchers, and explorers.

This copy lishing.com.

Deadline for advertising 2 p.m. Friday Info vorites, through April 17. While you’re at it, cast your vote for our next cover Advertising/General they want to be when they growmonth up, ask before publication.

Toledothe Area Parent subscriptions For advertising and general information, will offer you and your child opare available by mail for $30 per year at Adams Street call 419-244-9859 or fax 419-244-9871. E kid, a contest that is open until April 5. Congratulations to the winner featured them for a few ideas and match portunity them to grow Deadline fo Publishing, 1120 Adams St.,will Toledo, 43604. One copy together as they be Ohioadamsstreetpublishing.com.

FridayPersons before publication. Toledo A on this month’s cover, the adorable Jasper! free per person per week; extra copies p.m. $1 each. with someone in that line of work who at your attached hip, watching everything are available taking copies for any reason other than tions personal use areby mail for $30 per y Publishing, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio subject to to prosecution. must be limitwill mentor them for a day. The most you do and wanting try it! Letters to the editor per person per week; extra copies $1 ed to 300 words, are subject to editing, and should include copies for any reason other than person XOXO, the writer’s full name and phone number.

Any letter important thing you can say to your prosecution. submitted to the editor or publisher mayLetters be printed the must be limited to 3 to theat editor Erin Holden Aquarius child— or really any child— is publisher’s discretion in issues subsequent to itsand receipt. to editing, should include the writer’s TO RECEIVE OUR WEEKLY number.

Any letter submitted to the edito Entire contents © 2022-23 by Adams Street Publishing Co. Assignment Editor Also of: Reproduction in anyprinted “We don’t use the word ‘can’t’ in this publisher’s discretion in All publishers rights reserved. formatisthe prohibE-NEWSLETTER TO ENTER its receipt. Entire contents © 2021 by Ada Toledo Area Parent ited without written permission of the publisher. house!” Allow and encourage them to Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in a CONTESTS AND GET without written permission of the publish do anything they set their minds to.

THE “SCOOP” ON WHAT’S

Home for the Holidays

C

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• March/April 2022 •

HAPPEINING AROUND www.toledoparent.com TOLEDO.

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• November/December 2021 • www.toledoparent.com

#showandtell

We asked our readers to share their favorite family photos of winter fun. If you have photos you’d like to share for our next issue, send them, along with a caption, to toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com.

Four-year-old Christian of Perrysburg enjoying the sledding hill at Side Cut Metropark!

Emilia Jimenez (age five, Whitehouse) takes the inflatable tube out for a spin.

Dusting off the 1990 Little Tikes sled for 10-month-old Jasper of Whitehouse.

Instagrams we Love Two-year-old Lily (Perrysburg) gets ready to enjoy a snow cone while her brother, Joey, plays in the background.

xxx @jane_dough_and_sweets Local momma and home-based baker whose creations look too good to eat! Her vegan treats and expertly decorated cakes will have you mesmerized.

Seven-year-old Kallie Lewis (Toledo’s Birmingham neighborhood) builds an impressive igloo.

@bre_and_co Entrepreneurial lifestyle influencer and mom of three who is always visiting downtown Toledo and supporting local businesses.

@motherhoodportraits_tlashae Local mom and newborn/maternity photographer who eloquently captures the little citizens in our community, as well as the mothers who raise them!

www.toledoparent.com • March/April 2022 •

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what’s briefly happening...

By Elizabeth Inman

Encouragment for kids with rare health conditions

Operation Surprise Attack is a volunteer-based service that provides support to kids suffering from rare health conditions. The program’s volunteers create and deliver personalized cards and letters with words of encouragement for kids who are struggling. Donations come from all over the United States. The recipients often share what they’ve received on social media in support of OSA. OSA accepts donations to help fund supplies for the delivery events and relieve financial burdens from struggling families whenever possible. OSA is always accepting volunteers and encourages anyone who wants to make a difference to contact Lisa@operationsupriseattack.org.

DREAM at the Library

The Toledo Lucas County Public Libraries have unveiled their newest program: The DREAM Project. The Disability Representation, Education, and Awareness in Media Project partners TLCPL with the Ability Center of Greater Toledo to help educate children, promoting literature that includes, honors and respects creators with disabilities and their stories.

The project focuses on early education (ages one to three) and pre-school and kindergarten education. Schools that are participating in the program will be provided with copies of the DREAM book list curated by reviewers from the Ability Center, as well as education modules to encourage further discussion and classroom education.

Copies of the books are available for parents who wish to participate in the project at home. Learn more about the program by visiting abilitycenter.org/ dream.

Operation Surprise Attack, 27100 Oak Mead Dr., Perrysburg. 567-331-2162. operationsurpriseattack.org

Mobile Mammography

The Mercy Health Mobile Mammography Van travels through Northwest Ohio, allowing for safe, convenient and comfortable mammogram screenings without a physician’s order.

The 15-minute screenings are performed by a licensed technologist and both 2D and 3D screenings are available.

Mercy Health also offers financial assistance for the service, with zero-cost screenings available to qualifying participants. More information provided via phone when the appointment is made. Mercy Health is offering this service in Toledo, Perrysburg, Swanton, Waterville, Holland and Oregon. Appointments can be made via phone at 833-MAMMVAN (833-626-6826). Learn more at Mercy.com.

Battling the effects of substance abuse

The Hero Project is a community effort that supports children and families suffering from the effects of drug addiction. THP provides safe spaces for children to get help, tell their stories and grieve. They are now accepting donations to create safe group environments across the area, as well as to provide affordable housing for those recovering from substance abuse.

A strong belief of the Hero Project is the power of community.

They have used this to partner with local businesses and organizations to encourage others to speak up and get involved. Partners include Bullfrog Nutrition, Almost Human Coffee, Brightview Addiction Center and the Toledo Lucas County Health Department. Learn more at theheroproject.net.

Serving children, youth and families in Ohio since 1978

1219 Jefferson Ave. | Toledo

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Maintaining strong local support for our foster parents and team members, the Ohio program is administered through several regional office locations in the state.

nyap.org

• March/April 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

CycleBar Perrysburg

A new indoor cycling center, CycleBar, is set to open in Perrysburg this spring, as a fitness center dedicated to indoor cycling with personalized classes, exhilarating challenges and a supportive and inclusive environment for those looking to up their fitness game.

CycleBar will be located in the new French Quarter Square. Memberships are available in a tiered system with 4 rides per month at $79, 8 rides per month at $129, and unlimited rides per month at $169. There are five class types offered including connect, performance, classic, xpress and empower. They also will offer events and competitions for members throughout the year. For more information visit cyclebar.com. —EI

Toledo Pre-Med and Health Science Academy

A new high school is opening in the Toledo area to inspire kids and give the next generation of healthcare workers a head start. The Toledo Pre-Med and Health Science Academy, under the supervision of Principal Jack Hunter, is a high school for students with an interest in the medical field. Students have the option to take AP or college level courses and will graduate the program with an STNA license.

Cover Kid VOTE NOW!

Voting ends on April 5th Go to toledoparent.com

The school, in the Toledo Public School District, is set to open in Fall 2022 and will be accepting 70 students for the first year. Admissions have already begun and applications are available at tpsmed.org. —EI

Goldfish Swim School

The Sylvania Board of Zoning Appeals has approved the establishment of Goldfish Swimming School located in the former Family Video at Holland-Sylvania and Brint Rd. Classes will be offered to children from four months to 12 years old. Parents will attend class with their children and aid them with water acclimation and basic exercises.

Difficulty levels range from beginner to advanced so the proper skill level class is available for each child. More information can be found at goldfishswimschool.com. —EI

Raising Cane’s in Perrysburg

Poultry perfection will soon arrive in the area at a popular fast food chain, Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers. Opening the first northwest Ohio location later this year, the restaurant will be located on Fremont Pike in Perrysburg, one of the businesses occupying the rebuild on the site of the former Holiday Inn French Quarter (now called French Quarter Square). Other tenants of the new development include Condado Tacos, CycleBar (see above) and Biggby Coffee. raisingcanes.com —JM

www.toledoparent.com • March/April 2022 •

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Learning to be A Kid Again Nonprofit creates fun events for kids battling illness

By Emily Remaklus

For families with children battling life-threatening illnesses, relaxing family time can be difficult to achieve. Often, anxiety and stress affects all family members, and a lot of time is spent visiting hospitals and doctors while undergoing treatments and other medical procedures for the child. The organization A Kid Again works to bring a sense of normalcy back to children battling life-threatening illnesses by hosting year-round events, called Adventures, for the whole family to enjoy.

Helping kids be kids A Kid Again began in Columbus in 1995 and has grown across Ohio and in neighboring states. The organization was formed to meet the need for children and their families to have events and activities to look forward to while undergoing treatment for their illnesses. Meghan Hawkins, Family

Program and Communication Director for the Northern Ohio Chapter, explains “A Kid Again includes the entire family because it’s so important to improve the well-being of everyone who is touched by the illness.”

To qualify for A Kid Again, the enrolled child must be under the age of 20 with a diagnosis which is deemed life-threatening by a medical professional, such as cancer, cystic fibrosis, cerebral palsy, sickle cell disease, heart conditions and other issues.

Medical bills multiply quickly for a family raising a child with a lifethreatening illness, so Adventures are cost free to the family. Admission, parking, meals and other costs are paid for by A Kid Again through the help of sponsors such as Cedar Point, GPD Group, Kaulig Giving, Interim Healthcare others.

Adventures with A Kid Again include trips to the Toledo Zoo, Cedar Point, and the Rotary Community Park in Perrysburg.

By giving families a break from their daily stress, and allowing them to participate in an activity they might not otherwise be able to afford due to medical bills, Adventures allows the children to be around other kids with similar experiences. Hawkins explained, “90 percent of the children we serve say they feel a greater acceptance by others and are less fearful of public scrutiny due to being around other kids with similar medical conditions.”

Adventures in the area The Northern Ohio Chapter typically hosts nine Adventures a year, including trips to Cedar Point, the Toledo Zoo and the Rotary Community Park in Perrysburg, where the Chapter hosts an annual Fall Festival with food, music, Halloween fun and an all-inclusive playground, accessible for children of all abilities.

Due to the pandemic, the organization started hosting Virtual Adventures with a magic show, cooking class, a scavenger hunt, a behind the scenes tour of the Greater Cleveland

Aquarium’s Shark Tank and a Dance Party with the Cleveland Guardians.

Additionally, the Adventure in a Box program, which provides kits to families with supplies for fun activities athome, are distributed to involved families.

Getting involved Interested community members can become Adventure Guides, volunteer at other events, help fundraise for the Adventures, join the Advisory Board or Associate Board or refer a family that might qualify for A Kid Again. Hawkins stressed that “there is no limit to the number of families that we can serve, and we look forward to welcoming more families as we gear up for 2022 Adventures!”

To refer a family, or to enroll your own family, visit akidagain.org and fill out an application.

To become a sponsor or to volunteer for events, visit northernohiochapter@akidagain.org.

Ability Center Offers Scholarship College-age students with a 3.0 GPA or higher can take advantage of the Ability Center of Greater Toledo’s scholarship program for students with disabilities. The opportunity, open to residents of Ohio counties, Lucas, Wood, Fulton, Henry, Ottawa, Defiance and Williams, as well as Lenawee and Monroe Counties in Michigan, is available to any student living with a disability who is enrolled in a post-secondary degree program. All applications must be received by March 31.

Apply at abilitycenter.org today!

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• March/April 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

D L I H C & CARE l

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

o o h c s e Pr GUIDE

By Erin Holden

We reached out to preschools and daycare programs throughout the Toledo area, and they provided day-inthe-life style rundowns of their programs. For parents interested in the Montessori method, the arts, cultural diversity and other methods for educating kids, here is a Q&A to help weigh childcare options.

e v i t a n Imagi ings n n i g e B 4937 Woodville Rd., Northwood 419-697-5605 imaginativebeginnings.us Is your curriculum play-based, academic-based or something different? We utilize Creative Curriculum as our classroom curriculum, as well as Conscious Discipline, which is a leading method in brain-based, socialemotional learning that builds resilience in children.

Does the Center offer half days and/or full days? Is lunch provided on full days? Our Center only offers full-day childcare and preschool.

We provide breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack. We do not serve the children any processed meat. In other words, no corn dogs, frozen chicken patties, frozen chicken nuggets — we serve fresh lean meats, fruit and veggies.

Does the Center have early drop off and/or late pick up available for working parents? Our Center hours are 5:30am-5:30pm.

What training/certifications and experience do the teachers hold?

We require Lead Teachers to have a minimum of a CDA and that they currently be enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree program for early childhood.

What is the school’s Step Up to Quality star rating? We have a 4-Star rating.

How long has the school been operating? The school has been in operation for 16 years.

What kind of diversity experience does the school offer? We accept families of all ethnicities and backgrounds.

What kind of support does your school offer for children with disabilities? We partner with local schools, the Childcare Resource Center, and Help Me Grow. As a partner with GLCAP and Head Start, we have Head Start Advocates that work directly with families, teachers and children.

What is your school’s goal/mission? Our Mission at Imaginative Beginnings is to raise the bar for quality childcare. We want to fill the gap for those families that need a safe, clean and educational environment.

www.toledoparent.com • March/April 2022 •

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

r each e our hearts ts an r ore areas e the

Educare Academy

eat oprough ive od-aged

ed chiln creatteachers ep Up to .

ON PG 16

educareacademy.com 631 Euclid Ave. 419-691-6444

111 Indiana Ave. 419-254-4000

3158 Navarre Ave., Oregon 419-693-6982

4450 Jackman Rd. 419-478-3131

943 N. Dixie Hwy., Rossford 419-666-9843

1940 W. Laskey Rd. 419-474-3400

806 Starr Ave. 419-693-7550

2303 Cheyenne Blvd.

419-865-8191

3580 Lagrange St. 419-242-4777

1902 W. Sylvania Ave. 419-214-1322

Is your curriculum play-based, academic-based, or something different? The Creative Curriculum® for Preschool, Guided Edition is a comprehensive, research-based curriculum that features hands-on, project-based investigations as a pathway to learning. It includes the most up-to-date early childhood development research and offers the embedded support and guidance to bring a content-rich, developmentally appropriate curriculum to life effectively.

What training/certifications and experience do the teachers hold?

Child Development Association (CDA), AA or BA in Early Childhood education or related fields. There is ongoing professional development yearly (30 hours).

Does the center offer half days and/or full days? Is lunch provided on full days?

The program is two days a week. M/W or T/TH 9:00-3:15. Breakfast, lunch and a snack are provided.

Does the Center have early drop off and/or late pick up for working parents? Our program hours are 6am-6pm.

What is the adult to child ratio?

1:12.

15 toledoparent.com • November/December • 2022 • www.toledoparent.com 10 • March/April

What is the school’s Step Up to Quality star rating? 5. All 10 locations are five-star rated.

How long has the school been operating? We have been in business for over 50 years.

What kind of diversity does the school offer? All children are welcome in our Centers. Cultural diversity in our classrooms involves celebrating those differences and creating a culture of inclusion and acceptance among students and the greater school community.

What kind of support does your school offer for children with special needs? We have partnerships with many facilities in our community.

Cardasnori s e t n o M r e t n e C 1555 S. Byrne Rd., Ste. 100 419-787-7376 cardanmontessori.com

Is your curriculum play-based, academic-based or something different? We use the Montessori curriculum, a method of education that is based on self-directed activity, handson learning and collaborative play. In Montessori classrooms, children make creative choices in their learning, while the classroom and the teacher offer age-appropriate activities to guide the process. Children work in groups and individually to discover and explore knowledge of the world and to develop their maximum potential.

Does the Center offer half days and/or full days? Is lunch provided on full days? We offer both a morning preschool, from 8:30am– 12:30pm, and a full-day preschool program based on the family’s scheduling needs. Breakfast, morning snack and lunch are provided for both morning and full day preschool.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Does the Center have early drop off and/or late pick up available for working parents? Our hours are 4:30am-8pm to accommodate the schedules of our families.

What training/certifications and experience do the teachers hold? Our Lead teachers hold either a degree in Early Childhood Education or a Child Development Associate (CDA) and have a combined 80 years of childcare experience.

What is the school’s Step Up to Quality star rating? 3.

How long has the school been operating? Since November 2019.

What kind of diversity experience does the school offer?

Cardan Montessori Center is committed to creating an inclusive school culture where students from every background are embraced and celebrated. To enrich learning in our classrooms, we explore diversity, incorporating it into our activities and lessons. Our staff and student population reflect the multicultural nature of our country.

What kind of support does your school offer for children with disabilities? We partner with Harbor Behavioral Health and Help Me Grow to provide resources to students with special needs.

What is your school’s goal/ mission? To provide an environment that frees the child’s potential for self-development, curiosity and the joy of learning. Cardan Montessori Center brings Montessori education within reach of all children and their families, regardless of race, ability or socioeconomic status.

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Parents…it’s time!

It’s time to take that big step and register your little one for kindergarten at Toledo Public Schools!

See page 2

• Quality Early Childhood Education

• Affordable rates

• Meals and Snacks Included

• Degreed Staff

• Providing care for ages 6 weeks-12 years.

M

eet teachers, the principal, tour the school, enjoy activities and register your kindergartenaged child for the 2022-23 school year on Thursday, April 28 from 5 – 7 p.m. Each elementary school in the Toledo Public Schools District will hold an Open House at that time. Any child who turns fiveyears-old on or before September 30, 2022 is eligible to attend for the 2022-23 school year.

SPECIALIZED SCHOOLS, AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES, SUMMER CAMPS, TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS & FUNDING ORGANIZATIONS! SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!

For a complete list of the items you need to complete the kindergarten registration process, including immunization records, please visit tps.org or call 419-671-9100.

Understanding the Step Up to Quality Rating Also known as SUTQ, this fivestar rating system is administered by the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. The rating for the school or daycare program is based on the national care standards involving safety, health, development and education. A thorough breakdown of each rating’s criteria can be found at jfs.ohio.gov.

Wednesday, March 16, 2022 5:30-7:30

Bowsher High School 2200 Arlington Ave. Toledo, OH 43614

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’s n e r d l i Ch Center

y r e v o c Dis

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Franklin Park 1 (Talmadge 1) 3839 Talmadge Rd. 419-474-8303 Franklin Park 2 (Talmadge 2) 3905 Talmadge Rd. 419-292-2528 Perrysburg 11090 Ave Rd., Perrysurg 419-874-8203

Waterville 8011 Dutch Rd., Waterville 419-878-8689

Holland Wolf Creek 1640 Timberwolf Dr., Holland 419-861-1060

Is your curriculum play-based, academic-based or something different? We use the Reggio Emilia educational model to inspire our teaching. It is viewed as child-led and emergent, where children learn through discovery and exploration. Since our educational program views the child as competent, capable and amazing, we seek to nurture his/her interests.

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Harbortown 7033 Lighthouse Way, Perrysburg 419-872-4510

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION the Inspired Approach to Learning emphasizes aesthetic design elements such as color, focal points, texture, lighting, displays, furnishings and the use of nature. Our environments include museum-quality exhibits as well as an art studio where children are encouraged to explore, make discoveries and use a wide array of creative media and materials. Our creative director assures that our centers integrate natural elements into the environment, personalize the space with the children’s work and reflect current design trends based on research and the latest innovations.

The teacher and children work together to design projects, which encourages growth in physical, emotional, creative, and intellectual development. The teacher is a partner in learning with the child while acting as a resource, facilitator and documenter of learning in the classroom. We believe that a creative environment is essential for inspiring young children to learn. Therefore,

Does the Center offer half days and/or full days? Is lunch provided on full days?

We offer both full and part time programs. Our infant program is full-time from age six-weeks to 18-months of age.

Once a child is 18 months, they can continue full-time and also have a part time option. We offer a MondayWednesday-Friday or a Tuesday-Thursday schedule. These can be full or half days. Lunch is included on full days and, with a fee, on half-day morning schedules.

Does the Center have early drop off and/or late pick up available for working parents?

Each location is open from 6:45 am-6 pm. We offer before and after-school

• March/April 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

care for school-age children, kindergarten through fourth grade. We offer a summer camp program for ages kindergarten through age ten for 10 weeks in the summer for our working parents.

What training/certifications and experience do the teachers hold?

We have a variety of teaching experience across our centers. Our teachers hold high school diplomas, child development associates, associate degrees in early childhood education and bachelor degrees. Longevity is also valued.

What is the school’s Step Up to Quality star rating?

Perrysburg: 3 stars Talmadge 1: 3 stars Talmadge 2: 4 stars Wolfcreek: 3 stars How long has the school been operating?

In June 1982, with an extensive background in early childhood education, a love of children, and a few innovative ideas, Lois Mitten Rosenberry, founder and CEO of Children’s Discovery Center, opened the first Children’s Discovery Center location.

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Open Arms Wellness

2300 Navarre Ave., Oregon 419-720-8604 openarmsmassagestudio.com

Little Yogi Sunday Morning Club

The club offers a full, fun-filled schedule every Sunday, 10am-noon. Your little yogi can expect one hour of yoga and meditation followed by fun activities, snacks and crafts! The cost is $25 per child. Below is their current lineup of events:

guide Our Guide to 419 Programs for Kids

By Erin Holden

If you have a little yogi who wants to zen out on the mat, a budding artist who loves arts and crafts, or a child who is interested in all things STEM this list of summer activities for 2022 will leave you inspired. Register for them today, and don’t forget to browse toledoparent.com for other local ideas!

National Oreo Day Your little one can zen out and bring their own favorite cookie to this session!

Date: March 6 National Napping Day What could be more peaceful than doing yoga in your jammies?

This yoga session doubles as a PJ party.

Date: March 13

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Scrap4Art 333 W. Wayne St., Maumee 419-720-2978 scrap4arttoledo.org

This artistic nonprofit is not only a creative outlet for kids, but an educational tool to teach them about sustainability! Scrap4Art uses repurposed materials to create completely original works of art.

Sign your children up for their craft camps, which take place from June 14 to August 6, Monday through Friday from 10am to noon, open to grades one through six.

Camp cost from $100. Register on their website to secure your kids’ spots today!

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Children’s Theatre Workshop 2417 Collingwood Blvd.

419-244-5061 ctwtoledo.org

Summer at Children’s Theatre Workshop includes day camps for creativity and exploration, acting camps with a short play in a week, and musical theatre camp productions with a fullyproduced performance for the public!

Day camps are Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm for ages 6-12 and 9am-1pm for ages 4-5.

Acting camps are MondayFriday, 9am-5pm for ages 7-9, 10-12 and 13-15.

Musicals meet in the afternoons or evenings and are for ages 7-9, 10-16 and 13-18.

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Summer programs start June 6 and are available through August 12.

Camp costs: $150-$180 Registration: Go to ctwtoledo. org/summer-2022 for detailed information on camps, as well as payment plans, sibling discounts, FAQs, accessibility needs and registration. Need more information? Email office@ctwtoledo.org.

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Imagination Station

NEED A NIGHT OUT?

1 Discovery Way 419-244-2674 imaginationstationtoledo.org

Check Out Our Calendar of Events at ToledoCityPaper.com

Imagination Station offers Micro Camps for kids ages 6-8 and Macro Camps for ages 9-12, both with incredible offerings for kids who love science! There’s the Campers Guide to the Galaxy, which allows kids to learn about space in creative ways; Pirate-ology, a program that teaches about ship design, weather and navigation; and Super Splatter Science, where kids can get messy making volcanoes, tiedyed t-shirts and more! Make. Code. Create. and Design It! are two other camps that kids will love, especially if they are interested in STEM.

COMING EVENTS UPDATED DAILY AT TOLEDOCITYPAPER.COM

To find dates and other details on the camps, visit the Imagination Station website.

MEAL TURKEY FAMILY , Register ASAP to secure your 99 spot!#12The limit for each camp is 15 particiTurkey, #3 green beans average current $ bake peach cobbler 10 muffins & a take and pants, which could potentially increase depending on COVID guidelines.

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MEAL HAM FAMILY s, #5 Ham, #3 green bean er and bake peach cobbl 10 muffins & a take

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All Meals served hot and ready to eat. Just Bake the cobbler!

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St. Ursula Academy

#5 Ham $65. #10 Ham $95. #12 Turkey $75.

Call or visit any of our retail locations to order

by December 17 @ 4pm

Please VOTe FOR NeeDle MasTeRs!

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BEST DINER IN TOLEDO!

4025 Indian Rd. 419-531-1693 toledosua.org/camps St. Ursula Academy is excited to offer a full array of summer camps for Happy Campers in Kindergarten through eighth grade. From American Girl® for the youngest campers to science, writing, arts, photography, leadership, craft, theater and athletic camps for older girls, there is something Open for that Dine-In will and Carry-out. and meet each camper’s unique interests. St. Ursula provides an enriching undeniably fun experience. Read more about the camps and register on their website.

The staff at St. Ursula looks forward to spending time with your camper at Needle Masters North: SUA this summer!

5801 Telegraph Suite 10 hOliDay sPecials

(419) 476-9015

Needle Masters South: Camp dates: June 6-July DEC 1stDEC23rD, aDD $25 22 527 S. Reynolds Rd EvEry $100 spEnt Camp times:for Enrichment Camps run from 8:30-11:30am and 12:30(419) 531-4652 schmuckersrestaurant.com on gift CErtifiCatEs 3:30pm, Mondays through Thursdays. Athletic Camp times vary.

26 December 1 • December 31 Camp cost: $20-$100

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Visit Fort Wayne 927 S. Harrison St., Fort Wayne, IN 260-424-3700 visitfortwayne.com

Family is at the heart of Fort Wayne, Indiana. With high-quality attractions, affordable admissions, and that big-city, small-town feel, families LOVE this city.

From year-round attractions to summer favorites, Fort Wayne’s family-friendly attractions make for a road trip that is well worthwhile. We’ve listed a few things that we love about visiting there:

Fort Wayne’s Children’s Zoo

You’ll find 42 acres—and countless activities to fill the day! Feed a giraffe, tickle your toes in the treetops on the Sky Safari, or pet a stingray in the Australian Outback. You can even walk around with kangaroos!

Promenade Park

Fort Wayne’s newest attraction is the one-of-a-kind Promenade Park. Locals love to relax on porch swings, kids love the accessible playground and kids’ canal and everyone enjoys a walk along the tree canopy trail or a game of ping pong and cornhole.

Science Central

Indiana’s only hands-on science center, Science Central is a great year-round attraction for families. Spark your imagination with more than 200 exhibits including water tables for younger guests, challenging experiments for teens or the Science on a Sphere exhibit, perfect for the whole family!

Wrap up a day of fun with a TinCaps baseball game. Set in a gorgeous downtown park, a TinCaps game is a blast, and it’s affordable: seats on the grass start at just $7.

Additional family favorites include adventuring along eight miles of riverfront in downtown Fort Wayne, exploring more than 150 pieces of public art on Fort Wayne’s Public Art Trail, or enjoying the food and fun in new destinations like The Landing – a walkable block where you can find public art, friends gathering and dining destinations featuring seven restaurants.

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National Inventors Hall of Fame 3701 N. Highland Park, North Canton 800-969-4332 invent.org/local

Thanks to amazing reviews from parents, teachers and — most importantly — campers, Camp Invention® is back. Spark your kid’s creativity and build their confidence with the all-new program, Explore! Campers in grades K-6 will collaborate with friends in hands-on, open-ended STEM adventures designed to inspire curiosity, stretch imaginations and give your explorer an epic summer experience. They’ll dive into ocean research with their own robotic fish, develop inventions for space exploration, build a spinning robotic artist and design a mega marble arcade! Spots fill up quickly, so visit the website to sign up today!

Snapology

Urban Air Adventure Park 5243 Airport Hwy. 419-962-3257 urbanair.com/ohio-toledo Summer is upon us, and there is so much fun in store for kids at Snapology!

Snapology’s curriculum is designed to build on the math, science and technology knowledge students ages 5-14 have gained over the school year to keep them interested and engaged in STEAM year-round.

Using LEGO® bricks, K’Nex, drones, laptops and whatever kids are into these days, the best part about Snapology is that their programs are so packed with fun, so children will be excited to return to school next year to use what they’ve learned.

To add to the excitement, Snapology Toledo is located inside Urban Air and play time will be included! Half-day and full-day summer camp themes include Adventures with Jedi Masters, Superheroes, Amusement Park Engineering and much more. Snapology also focuses on developing real-world interpersonal skills through sharing ideas, communicating and working together.

Kids love it because it’s fun, and parents love it because it’s educational!

Hands-on activities for children ages 2-14 using LEGO® bricks, K’Nex and technology.

A new summer camp hosted inside of Urban Air Toledo.

Half day and full day summer camp themes include Adventures with Jedi Masters, Superheroes, Amusement Park Engineering and much more.

Snapology also focuses on developing real-world interpersonal skills through sharing ideas, communicating and working together.

Kids love it because it’s fun and parents love it because it’s educational!

5243 Airport Hwy., Toledo OH. 43615

For details visit toledowest.snapology.com or Call 419-461-5482 20

• March/April 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

healthy kids Speaking Out About Developmental Delays

COVID’s impact on language development

By Mary Rose Kulczak

The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that, currently, there are no known studies that have definitively linked face masks with speech delays. Even so, they do offer the following tips for interacting with children while wearing face masks:

Get the child’s attention before talking.

Face the child directly and make sure nothing is blocking the child’s view.

Speak slowly and slightly louder (without shouting).

Use eyes, hands, body language and changes in tone of voice to add meaning and context to speech.

pediatrician about getting a referral for services,” Dillon recommends. “There are also specific social skills like reading someone’s emotions and knowing how to carry on a conversation that are best learned in a natural environment. Parents and families can certainly do these things at home.”

Take a walk and talk about what you are seeing.

Model the language you want them to use.

Make time for one-on-one play.

Limit time that kids are alone with screens and devices.

Have your child engage with

other children to get peer models and to practice socialization.

Ask the child if they understood; repeat words and sentences when necessary.

For more information, consult the following resources:

Reduce noise and reduce distractions.

What to do if you suspect a delay If a parent is worried about their child’s development, they should seek help as soon as possible.

“If you are noticing that your child isn’t progressing in their language development or is not engaging with others, these can be red flags to talk to your

The University of Toledo Speech-LanguageHearing Clinic utoledo.edu/hhs/clinics/speech The American Speech-Language Hearing Association identifythesigns.org Ohio Early Intervention Services www.helpmegrow.org Michigan Early Intervention Services www.1800earlyon.org

Children follow instructions as they play games at UTMC Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic.

Pediatric speech and language pathologists around the country have been noting a sharp increase in speech delays in recent months. Many wonder how the COVID pandemic has influenced this trend, and if social distancing, masking and increased screen time have had a negative impact on children’s development.

“I think there is evidence that lack of interaction has taken a toll on social and emotional health for all of us, including toddlers and preschoolers,” said Mike Dillon, Clinic Coordinator at University of Toledo Medical Center’s Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic. “Like any other skill, language and speech get better through practice. When children don’t have peers as models or practice partners, they lose those opportunities.”

Dillon believes that a variety of factors may be contributing to the increase.

“In my opinion, the pandemic has certainly not helped matters,” Dillon said. “Our clinic currently has a waiting list of 8-10 individuals, but I know from talking to my colleagues that many pediatric speech language providers have waiting lists that are months long.”

Skipped Check-Ups, Missed Screenings During the pandemic, many parents were forgoing routine wellness examinations, which led to missed early intervention opportunities. Dillon

cautions parents and caregivers to keep those appointments. “This is a big concern in terms of both overall health and speech-language development. We know that an amazing amount of physical and cognitive development is taking place during the first three years of life, so it is important to recognize and follow up on red flags as early as possible,” explains Dillon, adding, “Things like hearing screenings, speech/language questionnaires or even observations by health providers can catch potential issues early and make referrals to the appropriate professionals.”

Masking The Problem Protective face masks, added to our daily routines, are an obvious culprit in the speech delay phenomenon. Masks muffle the quality of speech, making it difficult for language learners to hear.

Also, babies begin lip-reading at eight months of age. When masks cover half the face, it becomes impossible to watch lips form words and makes the reading of facial expressions challenging.

Dillon said that speech-language pathologists have found creative ways to overcome these obstacles, such as using clear masks and face shields to allow children to see their mouths moving when working on specific sounds.

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L ess M ea lti m e S t r ess with Res p o ns i v e Fe eding Award-winning author Melanie Potock’s take on weaning your baby

By Molly Klima In a world of instant access to information and parenting trends showcased on social media, awardwinning author and international speaker, Melanie Potock, CCC-SLP, has released a research-backed book on a proven way to establish healthy eating habits and relationships with food and our children, Responsive Feeding: The Baby-First Guide to Stress-Free Weaning, Healthy Eating, and Mealtime Bonding.

Melanie shares wisdom gained from over 20 years in speech language pathology and feeding therapy. Responsive feeding is a technique that took root in the 1990s and is recommended by organizations such as the American Association of Pediatrics (AAP) and the U.S. Department of Health.

Melanie Potock, CCC-SLP, has over twenty years of experience working with NICU care teams and coaching parents through feeding therapy.

She seeks to help families understand the best ways, backed by research, to establish healthy relationships with food, and one another.

Responsive feeding is baby-led and establishes a “dance,” as Melanie calls it, between listening to your baby communicating and meeting those needs in a loving way. This requires parents to be in tune with their baby’s hunger cues as well as identifying baby’s signals of satiety.

“Feeding trends come and go, but babies don’t change the way they communicate,” Potock writes. Reading these cues and responding to your child’s hunger in a timely manner allows them to send hunger signals without interruption and in their natural form. Responding to these signals helps to determine and nurture ways to help establish baby’s confidence that their basic needs will be met.

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Award-winning author and feeding therapy expert, Melanie Potock, has released a research-backed guide to laying the foundation for healthy relationships between your child and food.

Babies may indicate hunger by sucking on their hands, rooting or making sucking noises or getting excited at the sight or smell of food. While they have a limited vocabulary babies may indicate fullness by pushing the bottle away or unlatching, turning their head from the spoon or becoming easily distracted. It is important not to force children to finish bottles or meals once they indicate fullness.

Incorporating sensory development Feeding can be messy, but messy is not bad. It may seem easier for parents to control meal time by not putting food within reach, but not allowing children to feed themselves by spoon or fingers denies their bodies and brains the chance to develop fine motor skills.

“Children are born to explore the world with their hands and mouth,” Potock explains. “Grasping on and feeling the sensation of the food in their hand tells their brain what to expect is going into their mouth.” Potock writes that “when parents focus on getting their children to eat, rather than learning to eat, whether it’s a premature baby or a fussy toddler, it may work in the short term. But it will quickly backfire, causing the child to have negative experiences and to develop negative memories that will influence future mealtimes.”

Dr. Katelyn Oostra, from Oregon Pediatrics (ProMedica), strongly agrees with the responsive feeding methods and the mantra “Parents provide, children decide.” She says, “Parents can decide what they want to put on the plate for their baby or toddler...once the

plate is set in front of the child, the child gets to decide which foods they eat and how much. The more parents can sit back and let go of trying to control exactly what and how much their child is eating, the less stressed meal times will be.”

Transitioning to solids Responsive Feeding provides guidelines for transitioning children to purees and solids. Babies are typically ready to begin transitioning to solids around six months, or after they are able to sit up on their own with head control.

This demonstrates some mastery of gross motor skills and allows the baby to develop fine motor skills with food.

There are typically three methods to introduce children to solid foods.

The traditional method has been going from breast milk or formula to smooth purees, delaying the introduction of textured solids. Another method is strict Baby-led Weaning (BLW), meaning that babies pick up food themselves and feed with no assistance.

Responsive feeding most aligns with a third approach: hybrid. It is typically safe for babies to add solids to their diet at 6 months — it doesn’t have to be only spoon-fed purees or finger foods.

When using a hybrid approach, parents offer a variety of foods with a variety of textures helping children to be less picky as they grow. “The longer parents wait to introduce lumpier or chunkier solid foods the less likely children are to like them later on,” adds Potock. “Solids should be introduced by the time the child is ten months old.”

• March/April 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

Dr. Katelyn Oostra, Oregon Pediatrics, has found Responsive Feeding to be an approach that reminds parents to release unnecessary stress during meal times.

Long term benefits While parents are dealing with numerous demands, meal time remains an important part of a child’s physical and emotional development. According to the AAP, the benefits of responsive feeding include bonding with your child, establishing healthy relationships with food, decreasing risk of obesity and assisting with language and motor skill development.

“Focus more on relationships than having the ‘right’ things on the plate,” says Potock. The benefits of family mealtimes do not stop after children become toddlers. Children who grow up with consistent family mealtimes are less likely to suffer from anxiety or depression, they tend to make better decisions concerning peer relationships and they are more likely to abstain from drug use. It’s important to remove distractions during this time. Giving your child undivided attention allows you to connect emotionally as well as to recognize fullness cues. Dr. Oostra reiterates that the communication involved in responsive feeding is similar to communication in all aspects of parenting: recognizing our children’s needs and offering healthy choices and responses.

Not too late Even children beyond the infant and toddler stage it is still possible to help with healthy eating habits. For family mealtimes, Dr. Oostra suggests starting with small, realistic goals. “Think of it like exercising,” she says. “Set a realistic goal.

Decide when you are going to have the meal time. How often will it be? If that doesn’t work, adjust the goal. It doesn’t have to be dinner, if dinner doesn’t work for your family’s schedule. Maybe your family’s meal together is breakfast. That’s okay too.”

family matters

Years in the Making

Local author’s The Kindness Machine released

By Julie Pompa

Standing in the shadow of the Jerome Library in 2007, Bowling Green State University freshman Christina Dankert decided she wanted to write a book.

“It’s such a breathtaking place, the library,” she said, “and it inspired me.”

She wasn’t sure what the book would be about or when she would write it, but she had set her goal.

This month — March 22 to be exact — her first book will be released. The Kindness Machine draws on Dankert’s experience as an elementary school teacher and the advice and support she received from a variety of sources.

Dankert partnered with her husband for illustrations. And what might have been considered a long time from concept to finished product has turned out to be perfect timing for a children’s book on kindness.

Kindness to all — ourselves included “The concept for the book is simple,” Dankert explained. Set in an elementary school, the mysterious kindness machine shows second grade students exactly what they can do to bring kindness to their classroom and into their own hearts. But it is their teacher who reveals a secret to the class that helps them spread kindness wherever they go.

“We wanted to emphasize that kindness to others can be as simple as smiling,” she said. “When you smile, your face lights up and everyone else smiles.” This exploration of kindness is very important in these turbulent times.

But more important is Dankert’s added emphasis on directing kindness inward as well. “We wanted to help readers apply that kindness to themselves,” she said. “Even adults can use that!”

Sylvania native Dankert is an elementary teacher in the Sylvania Schools. Her husband Chad, also a Sylvania native, is the book’s illustrator, and he added per-

Q&A with Christina: Describe your life in 6 words. Wife, mother, teacher, friend, book enthusiast.

What is an ideal day for your family in Toledo? An ideal Toledo day would include a family bike ride at one of the many Metroparks, followed by a snack in the park and ice cream from a local shop.

How would you describe Toledo in one sentence? Toledo has a little bit of everything, from our art museum, Zoo, Metroparks, sports venues, festivals and foods from around the world, we celebrate culture and life.

Do you have a favorite author and/or book? Three of my favorite books to read to my students are The Day You Begin by Jaqueline Woodson, All Are Welcome Here by Alexandra Penfold, and Our Class is a Family by Shannon Olson. All three books share the beauty and positivity that can be found in a classroom, and all showcase a diverse cast of characters, allowing all children to find themselves in the picture books. sonal details that were special to them.

For example, “Chad added a lending library stand to the front of the school illustrated in the book,” Dankert said.

“That’s the same as the lending library we placed at our school in Sylvania.

Many little touches to the illustrations came from our conversations at home.”

Working on the book together was an enjoyable project, Dankert said, adding, “Even before we were married, we talked about doing something like this together. And, after the book was finished, he said he’d work with me again! We’re very proud of how it all turned out, from the message to the characters.”

The Kindness Machine, published by Purple Butterfly Press, is available beginning March 22 at Barnes & Noble, Amazon and Bookshop.

Christina Dankert (left) releases her first book The Kindness Machine this month, featuring illustrations by her husband Chad (right). “We wanted to emphasize that kindness to others can be as simple as smiling,” Dankert said.

www.toledoparent.com • March/April 2022 •

23

Tougen Japanese Restaurant

To-go sushi so delicious you won’t miss dining indoors

By Erin Schoen Marsh

Tougen Japanese Restaurant

7414 W. Central Ave. | Toledo Mon. 5-9:30pm | Tues. to Thurs. 11am2:30pm; 5-9:30pm | Fri. & Sat. 11am-2:30pm; 5-10:30pm| Sun. 1-8pm Facebook.com/tougentoledo (order online at ToGoOrder.com) Toledo has some phenomenal sushi restaurants, many of which we frequent regularly. Tougen Japanese Restaurant has become a favorite stop for takeout sushi.

Manager Jonathan Ng delivers consistently fresh and delicious sushi rolls, in a variety of combos — even the cooked and hot rolls — and they are tasty to-go foods. Perhaps it’s because he was exposed to Japanese cuisine at 15 years old and has been fine tuning his craft ever since. Whatever Johnathan’s secret, we keep coming back for more.

A hidden gem with rave reviews Tougen Japanese Restaurant is the definition of a hidden gem. An unassuming restaurant in a nondescript strip mall off of Central near King Rd., the interior is compact and unpretentious. Whenever we pop inside to grab our takeout — which has been often — we see Ng rushing from one customer to the next, ensuring that everyone is content and that food is delivered to the diner’s tables the second it’s ready. Ng says he’s “always in the restaurant” and jokes, “If there’s a complaint, I’m not the owner. If there is a compliment, I’m the owner.”

We find it hard to believe there is ever a complaint, especially considering the rave reviews across the board: Facebook shows a 4.9/5 based on 63 reviews, Google boasts a 4.8/5 with a whopping 256 reviews, and Yelp has a perfect 5 star rating with 82 reviews. We aren’t the only ones who love Tougen!

From unique to ordinary: It’s all a winner Ng advises, “If people want to try sushi, they can always ask our servers for recommendations. We are pretty good at our jobs, and we won’t recommend something that customers won’t like.”

4.9 out of 5 w/ 63 reviews | 24

Tougen Japanese Restaurant is located in a strip mall off of Central Ave. by the Meijer parking lot.

He adds, in jest, that “normally we are worried customers want to try out sushi but order a California roll…and that is not too unique.”

We made sure to get a smattering of maki options, from the classic Philadelphia roll (smoked salmon, cream cheese and avocado) to the New Orleans roll (fried jalapeño stuffed with spicy salmon, spicy shrimp, cream cheese, lettuce and avocado with eel sauce, spicy mayo and crunch, topped with fish roe).

For appetizers, we ordered the black pepper tuna, which absolutely melts in your mouth, and gyoza (wontons stuffed with pork and cabbage) that I could eat every day. We also ordered a spicy shrimp roll, eel avocado roll, striped bass sashimi and chicken katsu curry.

While I had never ordered chicken katsu curry — a thick curry sauce topped with chicken breasts, lightly breaded in crispy panko crumbs — at a Japanese restaurant, I was not disappointed. It was everything I had hoped it would be and provided enough for leftovers (also good reheated). For all you caregivers out there, you know the pleasure of a delicious lunch that you didn’t have to cook or prepare.

My husband, who is more adventurous than me when it comes to raw fish, immediately went for the sashimi and the black pepper tuna. You know Alex is happy with a meal when he ends with, “I didn’t need to eat all that, but I just couldn’t stop.”

Clockwise from top left: Gyoza (wontons), spicy shrimp roll, eel avocado roll and Philadelphia roll. Meals come with salad and soup, too!

Despite wholesale costs rising, Tougen has not increased their prices, and all of the above put our bill at just under $60.

Bottom Line: If you are craving Japanese cuisine, put Tougen at the top of your list. Everything is delicious, from the chicken katsu curry to the gyozas and maki rolls, and they have recently upgraded their ramen bowls (we aren’t talking the kind you microwave). For some of the best takeout sushi around, at affordable prices, Tougen is an allaround winner.

4.8 out of 5 w/ 256 reviews |

• March/April 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

The Short Course Outdoor dining: No. Online ordering: Yes. Carryout: Yes. Delivery: No. Kids’ Menu: No. Highchairs Available: Yes.

Perfect 5 star rating w/ 82 reviews

SUNDAY 28 Toledo Choral Society presents Handel’s Messiah. The longstanding area tradition returns with a live concert accompanied by orchestra, harpsichord and organ. $25. 4:30pm. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 428 N. Erie St. Also 7pm, Friday, December 3 at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Parish, 5856 Heatherdowns Blvd. toledochoralsociety.org

FRIDAY 3 Singalong Movie Night: The Muppet Christmas Carol- The holidays are here! View a classic holiday movie, and sing along if you’d like! and snacks willfor be available This epic holiday event has it a Prepare forPopcorn the worst, hope the best to purchase as well! 6:30-9pm. 3114 movie showings, hot cocoa, an at Imagination Station’s newest exhibit.

The Toledo Craftsman’s Guild Lagrange St. 419-214-9025. ohiotheatrehorse and carriage rides, and Free Crafts for Christmas - A winter The Worst toledo.org Case Scenario Survival turned-snow-generator. What m spectacular showplace of fine handmade Experience traveling exhibition.

Based ask for? Blizzard Fest basically SATURDAY 4 juried crafts, gifts, and holiday decoraon the best-selling Worst-Case anlove about winter festivities tions, two big shopping days. Saturday 17th Annual ArtsX- VisitScenario this holidaySurvival Handbook Series, it isyou Nov. 27, 9am-4pm and Sundayimmersive, Nov. hands-on, minds-on that will teach kids how to survive showcase to interact with andexperience imagine them all into the lineup for this 28, 11am-4pm. Lucas County Rec the power and beauty of art! Fromand perfor-quicksand! The exhibit is a funevent. 3-9pm. Saturday, Decem anCenter, avalanche, a herd of elephants, 2901 Key St., Maumee. Free to art sales, this event has it all!

Lewis Ave., Temperance, MI. fa opportunitymances to hone motor skills and 5pm.

1001 Efine Wooster St. Bowling Green.sharpen focus. Included with price bedfordblizzardfest of admission.

Open now 419-371-8171.

Freethrough April 24 during regular hours. Imagination

Worst Case Scenario

CALENDAR MONDAYS Young Writers Workshop Online Young writers from 11-18 are invited to attend this weekly virtual workshop with discussions and challenges. 4-5pm.

Register at wcdpl.libcal.com.

TUESDAYS Toddler Storytime Little ones will enjoy a storytime and other fun activities at this engaging gathering! Babies are also welcome. 1111:30am. Holland Branch Library, 1032 S. McCord Rd., Holland. 419-259-5240. toledolibrary.org Free Paws for Reading Make an appointment for your child to meet Benny, a therapy dog, while they practice reading! Registration required.

4-5pm. Wood County Main Library, 251 N. Main St., Bowling Green.

419-352-8253. wcdpl.org Free THURSDAYS Family Storytime Children, ages 2-5, and their grownups are invited to this event to share stories.

10:30am. Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th St. 419-259-5200. toledolibrary.org Free Yu-Gi-Oh! Tournament Checkmate Games holds a weekly casual event featuring the popular card game in a round robin format. $5. 6-9pm. 6725 W. Central Ave., Ste. L. 419-720-6901. checkmategames.net FRIDAYS Birds of Woodlawn From migrating to nesting birds, explore the many natural habitats of Woodlawn.

All birders are welcome. Please bring binoculars and bird guides. 8:3010:30am. 1502 W Central Ave. 419-472-2186. historic-woodlawn.com.

Free SATURDAYS Toledo Farmers’ Market The Farmers’ Market Association hosts Toledo’s centralized market for area farmers and gardeners, showcasing highquality, local products every Saturday.

8am-2pm. 535 Market St. 419-255-6765. toledofarmersmarket.com Free

MARCH FRIDAY 4 Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Former Toledo Symphony League’s Young Artist winner Benjamin Beilman returns to play violin in this performance. $22-$52.

8pm. Also Saturday, March 5. Toledo Museum of Art Peristyle, 2445 Monroe St. 419-246-8000. toledosymphony.com SATURDAY 5 Adventure Kids’ Club Survival Skills Learn how to stay safe on your adventures, how to build a fire, construct a shelter and more! $15. 10am-1pm. Oak Openings Preserve, 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton. 419-407-9700. metroparkstoledo.com/oakopenings

delicious food abound at this event where, if you are one of the to enter, you get $10 worth of Shipshebucks to spend! $5 entry November 6. 9am-6pm. Sunday, November 7. 10am-5pm. Mo Fairgrounds, 3775 S. Custer Rd., Monroe, MI. 269-979-8888. coupon at shipshewanaontheroad.com

8pm. $69.50+. Huntington Center 500 Jefferson Avenue. 419-255-3300. transsiberian.com

Dinder’s Big Story Time Local author Jennifer Beaver will share her picture book Dinder’s Big Day as part of this event. 10:30-11:30am. Way Public Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. 419-874-3135. waylibrary.info Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King The climax of the epic film trilogy hits the Imagination Station’s big screen. $10.

7pm. Keybank Discovery Theater, 1 Discovery Way. 419-244-2674. Imaginationstationtoledo.org

WEDNESDAY 6 Play Nintendo Switch Call the Sanger Branch Library to reserve a 20 minute gaming session. 3-5pm.

3030 W. Central Ave. 419-259-5200. toledolibrary.org THURSDAY 10 Friends of the Library Book Sale Find a great selection of used books for $1 each or $15 a bag. Through Saturday, March 12. 4-7pm. FOL Book Center, 1301 N. Reynolds Rd. 419-259-5455. toledolibrary.org

Bedford Blizzard F

Station. 1 Discover Way. 419-244-2674. imaginationstationtoledo.org

Teddy Bear Care Fair

Annual Tree Lighting Event- If you’re looking to get into the Christmas spirit,

Does your child have a beloved teddy who look no further! See the Christmas tree fescould use some patching up? This Toledo tooned with twinkling lights. 5pm. 6925 Providence St., Whitehouse. 419-877Zoo event is the perfect thing to bring their 5383. whitehouseoh.gov Free favorite stuffed animals back to an optimal cuddly condition. In addition to getting theseBG Philharmonia Holiday ConcertHear live holiday music at BGSU! The repairs done, children will also learn many fun BG Philharmonia will present a holiday facts about animals from Zoo volunteers andconcert in conjunction with ArtsX. 4pm. staff during their visit. Included with price of 1001 E Wooster St. Bowling Green. 419371-8171. Free admission. Time TBD. March 26. Toledo Zoo. 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-5721. toledozoo.org Christmas at the PeristyleCelebrate the sounds of the season! Join the Toledo Symphony and Santa himself for this festive holiday tradition! 3pm. $10+. 2445 Monroe St. 419-246-8000. toledosymphony.com

SATURDAY 19 BG Flea Market Scout amazing buys at Bowling Green’s monthly flea market. 9am-4pm. Also 9am-3pm, Sunday, March 20. Wood County Fairgrounds, 13800 W. Poe Rd., HAERIAN | LUDWIG | SIMON | HANSEN Bowling Green. 419-277-0033. Search “Bowling Green Flea Market” on Facebook.

Lego League M AU M E E A M B E RT V I L L E cupcakes S Y LVA N I A EntrantsLcreate delicious No matter what your skill level, you are 4413 Keystone 7928 Secor Rd. • P.O. Box 860 6407 centered around a theme. 2-4:30pm.Monroe St. welcome at this monthly event. 4:15Maumee, OH 43537 Lambertville, MI 48144 Sylvania, OH 43560 Ohio Theatre and Events Center, 3112 5:15pm. Way Public Library, 101419.887.1247 E. 734.854.6221 419.882.1017 Lagrange St. For the latest information, Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. www.perfectbraces.com visit ctwtoledo.org.

419-874-3135. waylibrary.info

SUNDAY 13 Bayside Craft Fair Look for handmade gifts from a variety of local vendors. Noon-4pm. Bayside Catering and Banquet Hall, 2759 Seaman St., Oregon. 419-693-6950. Search “Bayside Catering” on Facebook.

TUESDAY 15 Sensory Friendly Days at Manor House Visitors who may be overstimulated for a regular tour can enjoy a special open house event. 11am-5pm. Wildwood Preserve, 5100 W. Central Ave. 419-407-9700. metroparkstoledo.com Free FRIDAY 18 Monster Jam The popular monster truck series returns to Toledo. $20-$102. 7pm, Friday, March 18. 1pm and 7pm, Saturday, March 19. 1pm and 6:30pm, Sunday, March 20. 500 Jefferson Ave. 419-255-3300. huntingtoncentertoledo.com

16th Annual Holid Wishes for Makework of crafters and v and far as they come wares at this holiday formances, pictures w 10am-4pm. 2901 Ke 494-5247. toledo.com

More events online at MORE EVENTS ONLINE AT TOLEDOPAR toledoparent.com

h en it’s cold...smile WSUNDAY warm 2022 re a20Showdown shaCupcake

FRIDAY 11 30 Perrysburg Symphony Orchestra Moody Chamber Series The orchestra will perform compositions

by Poulenc. $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, students free with ID. 7:30pm.

Zoar Lutheran Church, 314 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. perrysburgsymphony.org

Maumee Valley H Antique Show & S Maumee Valley Histor Show & Sale. $8. 10 Sunday, December 5, Championship Dr. Per 2868. wolcotthouse.o

JUST POINT YOUR CAMER

Cont’d on P.26 • November/December • www.toledoparent.com

Cut spending in 2022 by ditching your by ditching Cut spending in 2022 subscription and using Toledo Library resources! your subscription and using Toledo Library resources!

Even just a handful of subscriptions can add up and the Toledo Library wants to help you save money with their free resources!

Amazon Prime: $119 per year Toledo Library: Unlimited finefree books $0 per year Audible: $180 per year Audiobooks with hoopla or Overdrive $0 per year Apple Music: $99 per year Music through Freegal or hoopla $0 per year Netflix: $108 per year Movies through Kanopy $0 per year

The Rosetta Stone: $96 per year

Even justMango a handful of $0 subscriptions can language per year People magazine: $92 per year add up and Toledo Library wants to Wallthe Street Journal: $39 per year Print or digital with Flipster $0 access $0with per year help you Online save money their free per year Total savings with Toledo Library: resources!

Real Simple magazine: $30 per year Print or digital with Flipster $0 per year

$763 per year

Amazon Prime: $119 per year Toledo Library: Unlimited fine-free books $0 per year

Visit any TLCPL location or visit toledolibrary.org to start saving today!

www.toledoparent.com • March/April 2022 •

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Audible: $180 per year Audiobooks with hoopla or Overdrive $0 per year

Cont’d from P.25 Side-By-Side Toledo Symphony Youth Orchestra concert, presented free to the public. 4pm. Toledo Museum of Art Peristyle, 2445 Monroe St. 419-246-8000. toledosymphony.com TUESDAY 22 Pop Bottle Painting Paint using recycled plastic bottles at this event for kids aged 6-10. 4-5pm. Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania.

419-882-2089. toledolibrary.org SATURDAY 26 Teddy Bear Care Fair Get your favorite stuffed animal checked up and maybe repaired, and enjoy a variety of animal demonstrations. For the latest information, visit toledozoo.org.

APRIL

SATURDAY 2 Painted Clovers Spring Market Hand-picked vendors gather to sell candles, cookies, jewelry and more at this marketplace. $5. Kids 12 and under free. $1 with canned good donation. Wood County Fairgrounds, 13800 W. Poe Rd., Bowling Green. Search “Painted Clovers Vintage Market” on Facebook.

Painting through Nature Students ages 10-13 are welcome to this one-day workshop where they will view landscape paintings and create their own artwork. $30 for members, $35 for nonmembers. 1-3pm. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. toledomuseum.org

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SUNDAY 3 Walleye vs. Kalamazoo Wings Enjoy a free post-game open skate after this home game against Kalamazoo. $19-28. 5:15pm. Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave. 419-255-3300. huntingtoncentertoledo.com MONDAY 4 Make Music with Beverly, The Music Lady Anyone who has an instrument is welcome to bring it. If not, one can be provided. Either way, leave as a musicmaker! 5-6pm. West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. 419-259-5290. toledolibrary.org Free The World of Bees Learn all about beekeeping in this workshop presented by the Maumee Valley Beekeeper’s Association. 6-7pm. Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th St. 419-259-5200. toledolibrary.org Free TUESDAY 5 Mud Hens Opening Day Play ball! The 2022 home opener for the Mud Hens sees the home team face the Rochester Red Wings. $16-$25.

4:05pm. Fifth Third Field, 406 Washington St. 419-725-4367. milb.com/toledo Teen Open Mic Cafe Showcase your talent at this monthly event, held the first Tuesday of every month. 4-6pm. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. 419-259-5200. toledolibrary.org Free

Cherry Blossom Tea

Kids and parents alike will love this four-course, extravagant tea party.

Guests will enjoy scones, quiche, mini sandwiches, salads and sweets, with a delightful cup of hot tea. Make reservations as soon as possible. $25 per person. 11am, Saturday, March 26. HeART Gallery/St. Pauls Lutheran Church, 428 N. Erie St. kate@ stpaulstoledo.org. heartgalleryandstudios.com

The Pout-Pout Fish at The Valentine The Gretchen A. Zyndorf Family Series present The Pout Pout Fish, a live production starring the iconic ocean-dwelling sad-faced fish who learns how to express joy, based on the beloved book series by Deborah Diesen. Masks required to attend. $15. 2pm, Sunday, April 10. The Valentine Theatre, 410 N. Superior St. 419242-2787. valentinetheatre.com

The Ten Tenors The Australian music ensemble, which has performed before millions of people, appears at the Valentine Theatre.

7:30pm. $49-$79. 410 N. Superior St. 419-242-2787. valentinetheatre.com WEDNESDAY 6 Spring Movie and a Craft Watch the recent hit movie Peter Rabbit while creating your own paper rabbit.

4-6pm. West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave. 419-259-5200. toledolibrary.org Free

• March/April 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

THURSDAY 7 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee A group of socially awkward young people find fulfillment competing in a local spelling bee in this popular musical. $15$25. 7:30pm. Also 7:30pm, Fridays and Saturdays, April 7-23. 2pm, Sundays, April 10-24. University of Toledo Center for the Performing Arts, 1910 W. Rocket Dr. 419-530-2202. utoledo.edo

ay. 419-385-4040.

Santa and Mrs. Farm- With the holie of the best ways to is to get a picture with Capture a photo with us in a new, fun envi44 W. Samaria Rd. Free

A Christmas Carol- Come see the timeless tale of redemption with Ebenezer Scrooge at the Toledo Repertoire Theatre, a show that has been a holiday tradition for more than 30 years. 8pm. $19.75+.

16 West 10th St. 419-243-9277. toledorep.org FRIDAY 3 Trans-Siberian Orchestra- The

Shipshewana on the Road

This Monroe, MI gift, food and craft show Black Trans-Siberian Violin Orchestra is back! And SATURDAY 23 is an excellent opportunity to get your just in time to celebrate 25 years of holiday shopping done, all while supporting local vendors. Unique gifts and Classically trained string players clasDemonstration Christmas Eve and other stories!

4pm and blend delicious food abound at this event where, if youDay are one of the first 200 guests 8pm. $69.50+. Huntington Center 500 to enter, you get $10 worth of to Shipshebucks to spend! $5 entry fee.

Saturday, will sical and hipAvenue. hop 419-255-3300. music for transan unforgettaVisitors the Wood County Museum Jefferson Society presents November 6.

9am-6pm.

Sunday, November 7.

10am-5pm.

Monroe County siberian.com ble musical experience. $29-$59. 7:30pm. get the chance to meet with historic reensiah. The longstanding Fairgrounds, 3775 S. Custer Rd., Monroe, MI. 269-979-8888. Get a $1 off urns with a live concert The Valentine actors at Cox Cabin for spring cleaning couponSt. at shipshewanaontheroad.com FRIDAY 3 Theatre, 410 N. Superior orchestra, harpsichord 4:30pm. St. Paul’s Singalong Movie Night: The 419-242-3490. valentinetheatre.com demonstrations. $7 for adults, discounts 428 N. Erie St. Also Muppet Christmas Carol- The for seniors, veterans and children. 10amember 3 at St. Joan of holidays are here! View a classic holiBedford Blizzard Fest13660 sh, 5856 Heatherdowns day movie, SATURDAY 9 and sing along if you’d like!

5pm. Wood County Museum, lsociety.org Popcorn and snacks will be available This epic holiday event has it all: Christmas Bernadette County Home Rd. 419-352-0967. to purchase Peters as well! 6:30-9pm. 3114 movie showings, hot cocoa, an ice skating rink, aftsman’s Guild LagrangeGlobe St. 419-214-9025. ohiotheatreThe Golden and Tony Awardwoodcountyhistory.org Free horse and carriage rides, and Olaf on a Jeeptoledo.org Free stmas - A winter turned-snow-generator. What more could you place of fine handmade winning actress performs with the Toledo for? Blizzard Fest basically takes everything SATURDAY 4 , and holiday decoraSymphony. $42-$110.

Toledo SUNDAYask 24 opping days. Saturday you love about winter festivities and pulls 17th Annual ArtsX- Visit8pm. this holiday m and Sunday Nov. showcase to interact with and 2445 imagine Monroe St. them all into the lineup for this show stopping Museum of Art Peristyle, Glass City Marathon ucas County Rec Center, the power and beauty of art! From perfor3-9pm. Saturday, December 11. 9144 aumee. Free 419-246-8000. toledosymphony.com The 45th event.

Anniversary edition acts as a mances to art sales, this event has it all!

Lewis Ave., Temperance, MI. facebook.com/ 5pm. 1001 E Wooster St. Bowling Green. qualifyingbedfordblizzardfest event for the Boston Marathon.

419-371-8171. Free TLCSC Eco Fest 7am. $45-110. University of Toledo, The Sustainability Commission hosts this 2801 W. Bancroft St. event with free workshops, vendors, inforglasscitymarathon.org Annual Tree Lighting Event- If you’re Maumee Valley Historical Society mation and more. 10am-3pm. Handmade looking to get into the Christmas spirit, Antique Show & Sale- The Annual look no further! See the Christmas tree 26 fesToledo, 171 Adams St. TUESDAY Maumee Valley Historical Society Antique with twinkling lights. 5pm. 6925 Show & Sale. Kids $8. 10am-5pm.

Also 724-579-3276. Search “Eco Fest”tooned Over the Rainbow Pop-Up Providence St., Whitehouse.

419-877Sunday, December 5, 11am-4pm. 7315 5383. whitehouseoh.gov Free on Facebook.

ConsignmentChampionship Sale Dr. Perrysburg. 248-4252868. wolcotthouse.org.

Ohio’s largest kids’ consignBG Philharmonia Northwest Holiday ConcertHear live holiday music at BGSU! The MONDAY 11 baby Holiday to teenCrafting cloth16th Annual BG Philharmonia will ment present asale holidayfeatures Wishes formore.

Make-A-Wishthe with ArtsX. 4pm.

2nd Annual Easter Egg Hunt concert in conjunctioning, toys, strollers and 3pm.Peruse Runs work of crafters and vendors from near 1001 E Wooster St. Bowling Green. 419and far as they come together to sell their Eggs will be hidden all around the371-8171. grounds through Sunday, May 1.

Tam O’Shanter Free wares at this holiday show. Also live perof the Wood County Museum every day Sports, 7060 Sylvania Ave., formances, pictures withSylvania.

Santa, and more!

Christmas at the Peristyle10am-4pm. 2901 Key St. Maumee. 419the week of April 11. 10am-4pm. Celebrate Daily, the sounds overtherainbowsale.com of the season! Join 494-5247. toledo.com Free Toledo Symphony and Santa himself April 11-15. 13660 County Homethe forRd., this festive holiday tradition! 3pm. $10+. 2445 Monroe St. 419-246-8000.

Bowling Green. 419-352-0967. woodtoledosymphony.com countyhistory.org Free

TUESDAY 12 Slime Buffet Create your own slime with all the materials provided at this event. 4-5pm. Waterville Branch Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville. 419-2595200. toledolibrary.org Free

HAERIAN

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LUDWIG

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MORE EVENTS ONLINE AT TOLEDOPARENT.COM

HANSEN

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L A M B E RT V I L L E

S Y LVA N I A

7928 Secor Rd. • P.O. Box 860 Lambertville, MI 48144 734.854.6221

6407 Monroe St.

WEDNESDAY 13 Sylvania, OH 43560 419.882.1017 Invasive Identification www.perfectbraces.com and Management Learn about invasive species in the Toledo area and how they • November/December • www.toledoparent.com can be controlled. 6-7:30pm.

Bradner Preserve, 11491 N. Fostoria Rd., Bradner.

419-353-1897. woodcountyparkdistrict.org

JUST POINT YOUR CAMERA!

marketplace

SATURDAY 16 Lego Cup Challenge Participants are given a cup of Legos and an item to build, with creations put on display.

2-4pm. Walbridge Library, 108 N. Main St., Walbridge. 419666-9900. wcdpl.org Free MONDAY 18 DIY Aromatherapy Dough Teen participants are welcome to relax and make a soothing aromatherapy dough in this class. 4-5pm. King Road Branch Library, 3900 King Rd. 419-2595200. toledolibrary.org Free TUESDAY 19 Watercolor Art Kids 6-10 can learn a variety of painting techniques using watercolors. 4-5pm. King Road Branch Library, 3900 King Rd. 419-259-5200. toledolibrary.org Free

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