March 2019 - Toledo Area Parent

26 YEARS AND COUNTING

FREE March 2019

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VOTING BEGINS MARCH 15TH!

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Audio Books

YOU HELPED THEM GET THIS FAR. THE FINAL BALLOT WILL BE ONLINE MARCH 15th.

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VOTING BEGINS MARCH 15TH! VOTE for your favorite local people, places and spaces in our annual Family Favorites.

V O T E ONLINE go to

toledoparent.com They can’t win without you!

PLAN YOUR “ME TIME” WITH OUR APRIL ISSUE ADVERTISERS: RESERVE SPACE NOW!!

Call 419.244.9859 2

• March 2019 • www.toledoparent.com

Toledo’s Award-Winning Parent Newspaper Volume 27 • Issue 3 MARCH 2019

Child Care & Preschool

giveaway

GUIDE

Comics come to Life!

Meet the local man behind Sami the Samauri Squirrel

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Finding the right place for your child

departments #show and tell

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what’s briefly happening

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Online

March

​Strawbees is a creative construction kit that

makes it possible to connect both straws and cardboard to each other to build anything from a tiny pixie to the biggest robot you dare to imagine.

Creating with Strawbees is a fun way to learn basic mechanics and physics. Created for generations to play, problem solve and invent together. So put on your thinking hats and start building! One winner will receive a Strawbees Inventor Kit ($39.99).

Learn more at strawbees.com.

new kids 7 book nook 21 calendar 25

When Your Child Doesn’t Like to Read

— compiled by Sarah Emily

marketplace 27

— by Christa MeInyk Hines

parent profile 22 Gabriel’s Gowns

How a local mom turned a horrible loss into something beautiful — by Erin Marsh

food fight 24 Local Thyme

The word is out— this hidden gem is a must for families!

— by Karen L. Zickes

recycle this paper For our children's future ...

and click on our Giveaway through March 15th.

EDUCATION GUIDE

Congratulations to Winner

Elicia Polacek

Interested in learning more about schools in Northwest Ohio? Our Education Guide has info on public, private, and charter schools in the area. You’ll find everything you need to know if you’re looking for the best school for your young learner.

winner of our Febraury Giveaway!

most read online 26 YEARS AND COUNTING

1. Lucas County Children in Need of Foster Parents

FREE February 2019

NOMINATIONS ARE STILL OPEN!

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EDUCATION GUIDE

2.

Pediatric Dentist Profiles

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Pediatric Dentists

Trusted local experts P.10

Where to go to learn, grow and thrive

3. The Joy

of Snail Mail

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Time to Unplug

Why putting down the devices has a big impact on our connection as a family

toledoparent.com

[Always online]

commentary digital age 8

To win the The Strawbees kit, visit

by Katy M. Clark

Fami

healthy kids 23

BRAZIL

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love

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Making snail Got Mail: mail fun again

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On the cover Frederick, 2 and Dylan 3, Bowling Green

toledoparent.com Join us and our 3,200+ followers for laughs, updates & parenting discussions.

“Like” us on facebook.com/toledoareaparent

www.toledoparent.com • March 2019 •

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Adams Street Publishing Co.

PISCES

Lucky Charms: Love it or definitely not lucky?

Publisher/Editor in Chief

KIDS HOROSCOPE

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) NO LUCK. AS A KID MY MOM WOULD NEVER BUY THEM FOR US.

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) NO THANKS.

February 19 March 20

Editorial

Assignment Editor Kimberly Feldkamp

(toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

By Kimmie Rose

YUCK. Associate Editor Athena Cocoves (athena@adamsstreetpublishing.com) LOVE IT.

Your imaginative Pisces child has extraordinary intuition and will sometimes surprise others with dreams and visions that eventually become reality. They perceive, but do not understand, everything that is happening around them while they appear somewhat dreamy and lost in their own little world! This is a perfect month for your little dreamer to express themselves because the planet of communication is illuminating their dreams, helping those dreams to materialize.

Ask your little Pisces what they want to do when they grow up and make a dream book with them. Be sure to let them use different colors and use all the five senses when putting their dreams in the book. They manifest best when seeing holographically!

Calendar Sarah Emily (calendar@adamsstreetpublishing.com) GROSS. EAT HEALTHY FOLKS! Web Guru Courtney Probert (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) LOOOOOOOOVE IT! Contributing Writers Erin Holden, Kimberly Feldkamp, Christa MeInyk Hines, Imani Lateef, Jamie Lober, Erin Marsh, Lindsey Melden, Emily Remaklus, Karen Zickes

Advertising

Sales Coordinator Jenny Leach (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) MMM....MARSHMALLOWS. Sales Bonnie Hunter (bhunter@adamsstreetpublishing.com) NOT. Suzanne Bell (sbell@adamsstreetpublishing.com) OMG, MY FAVORITE...IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT! YEA! Brittany Stahl (bstahl@adamsstreetpublishing.com) TOO MUCH SUGAR. Katie Emans (kemans@adamsstreetpublishing.com) THEY’RE OK.

Art/Production

Production Manager Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) MAGICALLY NASTY. Senior Designer Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) NOTHING “LUCKY” ABOUT ‘EM! Graphic Design Anita Tipton (atipton@adamsstreetpublishing.com) DEFINITELY NOT! Kelli Miller (kmiller@adamsstreetpublishing.com) MAGICALLY DELICIOUS. Norwin Lopez (nlopez@adamsstreetpublishing.com) NEUTRAL.

Administration

We’re celebrating kids and family

Accounting Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) JUST PICKING THE SHAMROCKS OUT TO EAT.

#toledokids on Instagram!

Want to be featured on our IG? Use the hashtag #toledokids and your pictures could end up on our page.

FIND LIKE AND FOL LOW US

Distribution Colleen Slattery (distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com) NOT.

Advertising/General Info

For advertising and general information, call 419-244-9859 or fax 419-244-9871. E-mail ads to adsin@adamsstreetpublishing.com. Deadline for advertising copy 2 p.m. Friday before publication. Toledo Area Parent subscriptions are available by mail for $30 per year at Adams Street Publishing, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio 43604. One copy free per person per week; extra copies $1 each. Persons taking copies for any reason other than personal use are subject to prosecution.

Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are subject to editing, and should include the writer’s full name and phone number. Any letter submitted to the editor or publisher may be printed at the publisher’s discretion in issues subsequent to its receipt. Entire contents © 2019 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without written permission of the publisher.

CORRECTION: In the Education Guide in our February issue, we incorrectly stated the name of YWCA Child Care Resource and Referral as YW Child Care. We also used the YMCA logo, which was incorrect as these two organization are not affiliated.

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• March 2019 • www.toledoparent.com

Also publishers of:

Audited by

As childhood evolves so do we.

Check out some of our favorite moments on social media and send your most loved photos to production@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Christopher, 2, Toledo

Cole , 3, Oregon Caroline, 2, Toledo

We asked you to use predictive text to finish the sentence: If I saw a leprechaun, I...

In efforts to keep kids engaged in their community, Lutheran Social Services of Northwest Ohio (The HUB) hosted an after-school cooking class with the Toledo Walleye at Scott High School on Wednesday, February 13.

Walleye players (foreground from left) Tyler Spezia, Jordan Topping and Trevor Hamilton worked with students on basic cooking preparation and skills.

www.toledoparent.com • March 2019 •

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National Reading Month

The March 2 birthday of beloved children’s author Dr. Seuss kicks off National Reading Month, with a goal to motivate kids to read every day of the year. Different events and contests encourage kids to pick up different types of books and read.

Even your littlest ones can benefit from books. A recent report of the National Early Literacy Panel highlights that literacy skills begin to develop at birth. Visit a local library to pick out new books, check out a story hour or listen to audio books (we recommend a few in this month’s Book Nook on page 21) to foster your family’s love of reading. And because kids are watching you, so this month let them to see you reading the newspaper, a magazine or your favorite book!

UT Songfest to benefit Zepf Center

College students are practicing their songs and rehearsing their dance routines for the University of Toledo’s upcoming Songfest. This philanthropic tradition - a song and dance performance competition continues Saturday, March 30 at 5pm at Savage Arena with three separate competitions - Men’s, Women’s and Co-Ed. This year, proceeds will benefit the Zepf Center. “We are honored and thrilled to be chosen for funding from Songfest. The funds raised will assist almost 10,000 individuals with mental health and substance abuse issues and provide hope that life can and will get better,” said Deb Flores, CEO of Zepf Center. Tickets are free for the event but donations are appreciated.

Open House & Ribbon Cutting - April 26th at 4pm Join our students for project-based STEAM style learning!

Our students have already designed an underground greenhouse, designed and built a picnic table and donated it to the Cocoon, and they are working on more projects to help their community!

419-353-3898

for enrollment forms & info 519 Ordway Ave. Bowling Green

Sleek Academy is currently enrolling for the 2018-19 school year!

Glass City Scholarships

Free money for local high school students! Glass City Federal Credit Union is offering five scholarship awards - one in the amount of $2,500 and four in the amount of $1,000 - to area students heading to a post-secondary school next year, and there’s still time to apply! To be eligible, local students have to meet the following criteria: • The student will be attending a 2- or 4-year accredited post-secondary institution during the 2019-20 school year.

• The student or a parent, step-parent, or legal guardian is a member of Glass City Federal.

• The student completes and submits the required application and essay by the deadline of March 29,2019.

Interested scholarship applicants are encouraged to obtain an application at any Glass City Federal branch or online at glasscityfcu.com.

Scholarship Opportunities K-12th Grade S.T.E.A.M School www.sleekacademy.us info@sleekacademy.us

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In a partnership between The Ability Center (ACT) and the Auxiliary to ACT, there will be a new college scholarship opportunity for students with disabilities. Interested students can find the application online, along with guidelines, some of which include a 3.0 GPA, community service activities, living in the listed counties, being enrolled in a post-secondary degree program, and being a role model for others. Applications are being accepted until Friday, March 29th. Call ACT at 419-885-5733 with questions. Search abilitycenter.org for specific guidelines and to apply. —EH

Master Classes are Coming

Parents looking for a creative outlet or hunting for something new to try should check out The Toledo Museum of Art ‘s series of master classes in glass this summer. These one-week classes offer instruction in a variety of techniques including glassblowing, flameworking, stained glass, glass casting, hot sculpting and glass print making.

Each teaching artist is internationally recognized and brings with them a set of highly specific and refined skills unique to each studio in the Glass Pavilion. The classes run one week each, May to August, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with lunch provided. Each week-long class will cost $950 for Museum members and $1,000 for non-members.

Register online at toledomuseum.org/glass-master-classes or call 419-254-5080.

Swing into a new routine.

Breastfeeding Help is Here

The first 30 days of breastfeeding can be the toughest for a mom, with many moms stopping earlier than planned. To help moms reach their breastfeeding goals, Medela has launched new products and services, including the PersonalFit Flex breast shield to help moms pump over 11% more breast milk, faster. Medela has also expanded access to 24/7 LC, an around-the-clock lactation service that provides live, on-demand lactation support for moms anytime there are questions, need for support or just encouragement.

You can find Medela on the My Medla app.

www.AmericanMobileFitness.com info@americanmobilefitness.com | 419.351.1381 2727 N. Holland Sylvania Rd., Suite H

2015

VOTING BEGINS MARCH 15TH!

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orites

yl Fav

2018

We want your choice!

VOTE for your favorite local people, places and spaces in our annual Family Favorites.

Voting begins March 15th

V O T E ONLINE They can’t win without you!

go to

toledoparent.com www.toledoparent.com • March 2019 •

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digital age Unplug

Device-Free Time Fosters Better Connections

by Christa Melnyk Hines

Free time spent unplugged can make a big difference in how our families feel emotionally and physically when it comes to nurturing our most important relationships. Here’s why: Increased self-awareness.

Time alone or unplugged helps us pursue personal interests and develop more clarity about who and what we want in our lives. That sense of selfreliance, confidence and independence comes through in how we interact with others. We’re better able to advocate for our needs and for others because we’ve taken time to contemplate and clearly understand those needs.

Better sleep. We can’t focus on others when we’re sleep deprived. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 72 percent of children ages six to 17 sleep with electronics in their bedroom. The lights and sounds these devices emit disrupt quality sleep and can result in up to an hour of sleep loss per night.

Remove electronics from the bedrooms of both you and your children.

March 1-2 is the National Day of Unplugging!

More attentive connection.

A 2013 study in the journal of Environment and Behavior suggests that by simply having your phone sitting on the table or in your hand during a conversation, you reduce the quality of your interaction. Stash your phone away during face-to-face conversation. And consider choosing one day a week where the whole family takes a “Digital Sabbath”, a 24-hour break from technology.

“The Sabbath increases your ability to concentrate on cool intricate tasks, to experience and appreciate the uniqueness of particular moments, to focus more on the people around you,” writes Alex Soojung-Kim Pang in his book The Distraction Addiction. “Paying attention is critical for relationships.”

Improved mental health. Attempting to address text messages, online interactions, phone calls and emails in the midst of family demands can cause stress and anxiety. “Chronic distractions erode your sense of having control of your life,” Pang says.

Increase your sense of calm by focusing on one task or person at a time. And occasionally play hooky from extracurricular activities, which teaches kids that 8

• March 2019 • www.toledoparent.com

Tech hacks that can help you unplug Break Free - Breakfree-app.com

This app monitors your phone and app usage, helping you grow more aware of your online behavior and how to better control phone usage.

Offtime - Offtime.co

An app that helps you control your connectivity so that you can better concentrate on work, family or personal time.

Spire - spire.io

A wearable mindfulness and activity tracker that monitors breathing patterns, alerting you to anxiety and tension triggers.

it’s ok to honor their individual needs for rest and disengagement.

More play time. Free, unplugged play gives kids a chance to put their imaginations to work and to try new ideas. Let them investigate, research ideas and experiment with materials on their own.

Multiple studies show that kids who receive regular, unstructured time to play, develop creativity, self-confidence, problem-solving skills and independence.

Enhanced curiosity. Researchers from Brown University recently found that the more time kids spend watching TV, using their smartphones or playing video games, the less likely they are to show initiative with other projects and interests and complete tasks like homework. Even more worrisome, they exhibit less curiosity and interest in learning overall.

Screen-free time gives us all a chance to consider questions like: What am I curious about? How can I solve a problem I’m dealing with? What brings me joy?

Who could I talk to about this?

“Chronic distractions erode your sense of having control of your life,”

Richer conversations. For many young adults, spontaneous conversation, where they can’t control the message in a text or email, feels too intense or risky.

Play conversation games like “What if...” or “Would you rather...” to make impromptu conversation fun and interesting. Establish unplugged spaces, like around the dinner table and in the car, to allow for spontaneous conversation.

Side-by-side conversation feels less intense and gives kids the courage to broach issues that are bugging or worrying them. Grab the crayons and color together. Go on a walk. With space and uninterrupted conversation opportunities, you can listen to each other better and grow closer as a family.

MAUMEE 4359 Keystone Dr. Maumee, OH 43537 419.887.1247

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

S Y LVA N I A 6407 Monroe St. Sylvania, OH 43560 419.882.1017

www.perfectbraces.com

THE GIFT OF TIME

NATURAL GROWTH THROUGH THE GIFT OF TIME ADVERTORIAL

Child development is not a competition. It is a gradual unfolding of the human potential. Just as each child’s timetable for physical growth is unique, so is the timetable for emotional, social, and academic growth. Today, artificial measurements of success dominate our society and often overwhelm common sense. We pressure our children to attain certain milestones at increasingly younger ages. Are you worried that a three year old is not being “challenged”? A human being is not fully formed until age twenty four!

The antidote to frantic, competitive parenting is to appreciate children for who they are, not who we want them to be. Children learn how to please adults at a very early age. They innately understand what matters most and will try to please, even when the expectations are unreasonable for their age or maturity. Competence and confidence develop naturally and incrementally when the obstacles presented match the developmental needs of each child. Observe and respond when they demonstrate readiness to take the next step.

Provide as much opportunity for open-ended exploration and discovery as you can. Give children time, your time. Cuddle, read to Toledo Campus 7115 W. Bancroft St. Toledo, OH 43615

them, tell them family stories, take a walk on an undiscovered path, laugh at the absurd, marvel at the little things. When does your child experience joy? It may simply be swinging in a park. Pause and listen to your child.

Our ultimate goal as parents is to nurture happy, productive, balanced human beings who confidently pursue their own futures in an increasingly pressured and uncertain world. Counteract the stress of daily living by giving yourself and your child the gift of time.

Children understand at a very early age if they are valued for what they do rather than who they are. They absorb the frantic, high stress pressure and uncertainty of our daily lives. They need firm, loving guidelines. They need you to be present for them.

The most important thing you can give your child is the gift of time, your time, and the time to grow and learn naturally.

How do you create joy? Stress. Where does joy come from?

Perrysburg Campus 13587 Roachton Rd. Perrysburg, OH 43551

Lynn Fisher Founder and Head of School West Side Montessori lfisher@montessoritoledo.org

www.toledoparent.com • March 2019 •

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Child Care & Preschool

GUIDE

Questions to Ask When Visiting/Interviewing Preschools and Daycare Centers: o What does an average day look like? o Is the curriculum play-based, academic-based or Montessori? o What kind of support does the school offer for children with special needs?

o Does the center offer half days and/or full days? o Does the center have early drop off and/or late pick up for working parents?

o Is lunch provided for children who stay a full day?

By Emily Remaklus & Erin Marsh

o Is the location and program a good fit for your child and family?

Finding the place for you

o What training/certifications and experience do the teachers hold?

Child Care. Preschool. Curriculum. Play-based. Montessori.

Step Up to Quality star ratings. There’s so much to think about these days as you look for safe, affordable, quality child care and/or preschool for your little one. It’s daunting.Where do you start the search to find the learning experience that works for you? This Child Care & Preschool Guide can take a lot of the work and stress out of the search for you. Learn about the different types of centers and preschools offered in the area to find the one that’s right for you.

o What is the adult to child ratio? o How long has the school been operating? o What kind of diversity does the school offer? o What sets this school apart from others? o Think about your child’s personality and ask if the school would be a good fit for him/her?

o What is the school’s Step Up to Quality star rating? o Ask for a parent referral so you can talk about the school from a parent’s perspective.

Bright Beginnings

6393 Oak Tree Blvd Independence, OH 216-698-7500 | esc-cc.org/content.aspx?id=237840 Formerly Help Me Grow of Cuyahoga County, Bright Beginnings provides services that promote the health and development of infants and toddlers so children start school healthy and ready to learn.

Bright Beginnings works with families to provide programing in the home or a community setting to help children reach milestone goals.

Bright Beginnings supports families through the Parents as Teachers program and Early Intervention services in Cuyahoga County, and provides connections to the Help Me Grow system of supports and community resources throughout Ohio.

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2019 Open House Event Sunday, March 10th 2:00-4:00pm

Serving infants as young as six weeks and children up to age 12, Little Village Preschool provides a developmentally appropriate experience for all children enrolled. The school’s structured curriculum offers both hands-on and teacher led activities to develop language and math skills, fine and gross motor skills, along with social and emotional maturity. These experiences at the preschool setting, along with family and play experiences form the foundation for the theories and ideas of how the physical and social world. With operating hours from 6:30am 6pm Monday through Friday, Little Village Preschool offers before and after school programs and a summer program for school age children.

Schedule a tour! 419-887-1685 1315 Michigan Avenue • Maumee, Ohio

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Children’s Discovery Center

Several Locations 419-867-8570 childrensdiscoverycenters.com

Nahrain M. Shasteen, OD, MS, FAAO 5150 Chappel Dr. | Perrysburg, OH 43551 | 419-873-7446

Follow us on Facebook!

/MHEyeCare

www.modernheritageeyecare.com

For children as young as 6 weeks old up up until 10 years old, Children’s Discovery Center has a place for your child. In addition to child care, Children’s Discovery Center offers full day kindergarten programs, before and after school care, and a summer camp for school-aged children. With multiple centers throughout the Toledo area, all are open from 6:30am-6:00pm, with some opening a little earlier and some closing a little later. Children’s Discovery Center stands apart from other centers by using the Reggio Emilia educational philosophy which focuses on inquiry-based learning. Children explore and learn concepts by investigating, creating, and collaboratively solving problems in a group atmosphere. Additionally, their enhanced teaching approach incorporates S.T.E.A.M. fields of study into early childhood education. Children’s safety is a major focus for Children’s Discovery Center. Each educator goes through a 3-step interview process that includes verifying references, background checks and training. All centers have complete surveillance system to help maintain a safe environment for the child.

NOW ACCEPTING ENROLLMENTS Our Innovative Catholic Preschool Welcomes Students of all Faiths, Ages 3-5.

• • • •

Early Childhood Education Grants We Accept Publicly Funded Childcare Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Program Extended Day Options Available

ART • MUSIC • COMPUTER PHYSICAL EDUCATION

1155 Corbin Rd. Toledo, OH • 419-478-9900

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Step Up to Quality Stars: What do they mean?

Erin Holleran, Step Up to Quality Specialist at The YWCA CCR&R, explains, “Step Up to Quality is Ohio’s quality rating initiative, ensuring that children receive the highest quality early childhood experiences available. Providers who are star-rated go above and beyond child care licensing requirements by providing intentional lesson plans, child screenings and assessments, higher staff qualifications and supports, and family engagement and education opportunities.”

Sylvania Children’s Center 3421 Talmadge, Toledo 419-537-1122 sylvaniachildren.com

Sylvania Children’s Center is a year-round nationally accredited child care facility celebrating its 26th year of serving children. The center strives to inspire a love for learning in even the youngest children, serving children from 6 weeks to 6 years old. During the school year, hours are designed around a traditional school day from 8:30am-3pm.

However, extended care is offered starting at 7:30am and ending at 5pm. Sylvania Children’s Center uses hands-on experiences to help children become active learners, with a special emphasis placed on reading and math skills. However, along with the academics, the center recognizes the importance of play to help children develop socially, emotionally, and intellectually. Class sizes are kept small to ensure that teachers get to know the children well and that each child’s learning is geared towards their individual learning style, interests, personality, and skills. Because classes are kept small, enrollment is not year round.

Enrollment begins in March for the upcoming school year and classes do fill up fast, so be sure to contact Sylvania Children’s Center early.

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We’re always enrolling new students!

Family Famil y

orite avorite FFav

WINNER

Thank you for voting us Toledo’s Family Favorite Gymnastics Class!

26280 Glenwood Rd. Perrysburg, OH 43551 419-873-0511  ToledoTurners.com

www.toledoparent.com • March 2019 •

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Benefits of Preschool

Sending your tiny 3-year-old to preschool may be daunting, but study after study reveal the same finding: children who attend public preschools are better prepared for kindergarten than those who don’t.

Experts in the field of early childhood education compiled their research into one cumulative report: “The Current State of Scientific Knowledge on Pre-Kindergarten Effects,” and the authors include big names from the early childhood world, all of whom work for prestigious universities, such as Duke, Vanderbilt, and Georgetown.

St. Catherine of Siena

They break down their findings into the following: • All children benefit from preschool, but poor and disadvantaged children make the most gains.

1155 Corbin, Toledo 419-478-9900 stcatherineearlyed.org

St. Catherine of Siena is currently in their 5th year of operation with 155 students from ages 3-5 years old. The school is a Catholic school, but welcomes students of all faiths. It operates a 3 floor building that used to be an elementary school, which means the school has a library, science lab, full sized gym, computer lab, art room, music room, and Atrium for religious programs. A cafeteria, also in the building, offers a hot lunch and breakfast program. All PK teachers are licensed by the Ohio Department of Education with either a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Education. Additionally, each employee maintains a minimum of 15 hours of professional development a year. The school also has 5 stars from SUTQ, which means they meet high standards. Hours of operation are from 8am-3pm, with the option for a half day program from 8-11am. For parents who may work earlier or later hours, St. Catherine of Siena offers Extended Day which operates from 6-8am and 3-6pm. These hours are the same during the summer as well. Open House was on February 24th, but students are accepted year round as long as there are openings in the class. Enrolling a child at St. Catherine of Siena is affordable. The school offers Early Childhood Education Grants for qualified students and accepts publicly funded child care benefits as a way to pay tuition.

•

Children who are dual-language learners make larger strides in their English-language proficiency and other academic skills when they attend preschool.

• Children are immersed in a diverse atmosphere when attending preschool, which has social advantages for children from all socioeconomic backgrounds.

• Not all preschool programs are alike.

Do your research and ask around. Preschools with a “well implemented, evidence-based curriculum” who hire qualified teachers, and then continue to train those teachers, have a higher success rate in general.

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Rogers Learning Community - Monday, March 4th 5:30-7:30pm | 222 McTigue Dr. Start Learning Community - Thursday, March 7th 5:30-8pm | 2010 Tremainsville Rd. Bowsher Learning Community - Saturday, March 9th 9am-12:30pm | 2200 Arlington Ave. Woodward Learning Community - Monday, March 11th 5:30-7:30pm | 701 E. Central Ave. Jones Leadership Academy of Business - Wednesday, March 13th 5:30-8pm | 430 Nebraska Ave. Waite Learning Community - Thursday, March 14th 5:30-8:30pm | 301 Morrison Dr. Scott Learning Community - Wednesday, March 20th 5-7pm | 2400 Collingwood Blvd.

www.toledoparent.com • March 2019 •

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Preschool vs.

Childcare While the terms preschool and child-

YOU WON’T BELIEVE YOUR EYES!

care are used interchangeably, and despite the fact that they share similarities, they are decidedly different.

1018 Jefferson, Toledo 419-241-3235 ywcaccrrevents.org/ events/parents-and-families

Although not a child care center, the YWCA’s Child Care Resource and Referral offers a wide variety of resources for parents and child care workers, helping parents find child care that meets the needs of their individual child. Additionally, the organization offers courses to help strengthen parenting skills. For child care workers, the YWCA assists by helping them with earning Step Up to Quality star ratings, Ohio’s rating initiative geared towards making sure all children receive high quality early childhood education.

EduCare Academy

Childcare refers to any setting where a child is looked after — from a nanny to a daycare. Daycares generally leave plenty of time to explore and incorporate play-based learning, and many daycares now also include structured early learning and preacademics. Childcare centers generally accept infants up to school-age children with the option, for working parents, of extended care before and after school hours.

Fami

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Dr. Joseph Marra

4240 Secor Road • (419) 475-6605

orites

YWCA Child Care Resource and Referral

Preschool programs aim to prepare toddlers for school, with a greater emphasis on early learning and academics. Preschool typically only accepts children ages 3 to 5 and tends to have more teachers with training in Early Childhood Education. Preschool curriculums generally follow the school calendar, which means they are closed during holidays and summer vacation, and they maintain typical school hours, usually something like 8 to 3, with the option of half days.

2018

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Call today to make an appointment for a private tour of SCC!

S.T.E.A.M. activities naturally a part of our day! It’s who we are!

26+ Years of Excellence in Early Childhood Education & Care FIND US!

S Degreed, Experienced Professional Teachers who build meaningful relationships with your child!

S Morning & Afternoon Sessions/Early & Extended Care S Accredited by the NAEYC, & awarded SUTQ 5-Star by the State of Ohio

3421 TALMADGE RD. • TOLEDO, OHIO (419) 537-1122 • sylvania-children.com inspire@sylvania-children.com

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Several Locations 419-478-3131 educareacademy.com

EduCare Academy is a great place for children from as young as 6 weeks up until 12 years old. There are 10 locations in Northwest Ohio which are open from 6am-6pm. For those who work later, EduCare has an 11th location at 806 Starr Avenue which stays open until 10pm. EduCare is the largest chain of childcares in Ohio that operates on the award winning 5 Star Level, which is the highest level in the Step Up To Quality rating system and requires degreed teachers in each classroom.

The school also does quarterly training on various subjects from safety to curriculum to ensure their teachers have continued education.

Additionally, EduCare was awarded a grant from the Ohio Department of Education to provide free preschool to eligible children in the Toledo area. Enrollment is available year round, but the summer camp that is offered fills up very quickly, so be sure to contact EduCare early if interested in the summer program.

New families who are interested in EduCare are invited to try the center to see if it is a good fit by taking advantage of their first week free offer.

www.toledoparent.com • March 2019 •

17

Famil

(On March 15th)

GO. VOTE.

orites

F y av

2018

toledoparent.com

Hope Learning Academy... designed for students with exceptional learning needs.

4234 Monroe Street • Toledo, Ohio 43606 • 419.297.6313

Come and experience the HOPE Difference!

Call for a visit!

419-877-5167

PLEASE CALL 419-297-6313 Celebrating 47 Years of Education Excellence Multi-Age Classrooms Montessori PreK - K Program Located on 96 acres in Oak Openings Region Foreign Language, Fine Arts, & Integrated Classroom Technology For All Ages Bus Transportation Available

Sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame since 1972

5700 Davis Road, Whitehouse, OH

419-877-5167 www.Lialschool.org

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• March 2019 • www.toledoparent.com

to schedule your screening today!

• Small class sizes • Technology rich • Smartboards in every classroom • Positive and safe environment supported by a unique social skills program • Sensory Integration for more focused learning • Energetic curriculum infused with art and technology

hopelearningacademy.org

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Family Famil y

orite avorite FFav

WINNER

Christ the King

4100 Harvest Lane, Toledo 419-475-0909 ckschool.org

Little Village Preschool

1315 Michigan Ave, Maumee 419-887-1685 littlevillagemaumee.com Serving infants through school age, Little Village Preschool provides challenging, yet developmentally appropriate experience for all children enrolled. The school’s highly structured program offers both child choice and teacher directed activities that focus on the development of skills in the following areas: language and literacy, math, fine and gross motor, science, social studies and social emotional maturity. Interactive applications allow families to stay connected to their child’s daily activities and milestone accomplishments. Frequent assessment identifies each child’s unique capabilities and individual plans focus on meeting milestone goals. Call today to schedule a tour.

Fami

orites

Christ the King Preschool welcomes all potty-trained children from 3-5 years old. Programs include the 3 year old program that runs on Tuesday and Thursdays from 8:45-10:45am or 12:30-2:30pm, and the 4 year old program that includes two options — a full week morning program or Monday/ Wednesday/Friday from 8-10:45 or 11:45-2:30. Extended care is available from 7:30am to 6pm for all programs.

Christ the King is a Catholic kindergarten prep school that teaches academics and the diocesan religion standards.

Children are treated individually when it comes to learning and teachers work with parents to determine the education goals for your child. All head teachers have early childhood degrees, and the assistant teachers have all been working in preschool for over fifteen years. Registration starts in February for the next school year which will run from August to May.

ly Fav

2018

VOTE FOR US!

CHRIST THE KING

Preschool open house Sunday, March 3, 2019 11am to 1:30pm

*Extra guides will be on-hand for tours for grades K - 8.

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4100 harvest ln, toledo, oh 43623 | www.ckschool.org | 419-475-0909 christ the king roman catholic church | www.cktoledo.org | 419-475-4348 Where your child will grow in faith and knowledge.

www.toledoparent.com • March 2019 •

19

s T e he Day v a S Scoot Mcmahon Local comics creator gets his break

By Imani Lateef

The life of comic book creator Scott McMahon resembles a classic superhero origin story.

A graphic designer and illustrator for Toledo’s Allied Learning Labs by day, at night McMahon becomes an amazing comic book illustrator, complete with a cool alter ego nickname: Scoot!

Scoot’s super power is writing and drawing fun comics that read like your favorite Saturday morning cartoons and appeal to all ages.

Scoot is best known for his all-ages graphic novel Sami the Samurai Squirrel, a character inspired by Nintendo’s Super Mario Bros. video game. “It was silly and fun but grand and adventurous at the same time. It reminded me of the Disney cartoons I grew up with like Ducktales, Rescue Rangers and Darkwing Duck. I was inspired to create my own wacky world!”

Homegrown comics A graduate of Rossford High School and Bowling Green State University, Scoot created his unique approach to comics by imitating those animated television shows rather than drawing the muscle bound heroes popular with fans of Marvel or DC. Asked why he enjoys creating allages comics, Scoot explains “I have always been into all ages books and stories. I was always coming up with silly characters and those stories just came naturally to me.

When I draw the all-ages cartoony comics, it’s almost like I become a 7 year old kid again, and that’s a good feeling.”

Due to his out-of-the-box technique, big name comic publishers haven’t shown interest in his work. But, Scoot got a lucky break through a friend who knew Art Baltazar, the comic creator behind DC Comics’ very popular Tiny Titans. Although most publishers saw his work as “too cartoony,” Art saw a kindred spirit in Scoot’s illustrations which were similar to Baltazar’s own kid-friendly style.

Despite the comic book industry eschewing Scoot’s technicolor characters in the early 200’s, McMahon is

20

• March 2019 • www.toledoparent.com

now sought after by several publishing companies looking to create comic book lines for young readers. He currently does work for Aw Yeah! Comics, Lion Forge, Diamond Distributors, and Emerald City Comic Con. Scoot attends about a half dozen comic conventions annually- including New York Comic Con, San Diego Comic Con and C2E2 in Chicago - where he meets crowds of young Sami the Samurai Squirrel fans who ask for autographs and share amazing fan art.

For more info visit Scoot’s website: scootcomics.com

BOOK NOOK Listen to This

Audiobooks: fun for the whole family

By Lindsey Melden

I

s it spring yet? The winter can sometimes feel endless by the time March rolls around, so I thought I’d offer a twist on book recommendations. Audiobooks!

If you haven’t tried them yet with your kids, this final month of forced hibernation is the perfect time to experiment. Here are just a few of the reasons I absolutely love listening to audiobooks with kids:

n It offers an indoor activity that doesn’t

n It’s a shared experience. It is too easy

involve a screen.

to have everyone come home from school and disappear into their own corners of the house. Sharing an audiobook together allows for conversation, shared jokes, and years of family memories.

n I don’t have to read aloud when I am

tired or feeling uninspired. The right narrator turns an ordinary book into an experience!

n While reading a print book. Have kids

color, eat a snack, play with Legos or fold laundry while they listen!

n Literacy skills! Even though someone

else is reading, it still builds vocabulary, fluency, and a sense of story development.

Here are a few favorite audiobooks for kids of all ages.

A Dog’s Way Home

by Bobbie Pyron Frog & Toad All Year

by Arnold Lobel For your littlest listeners I would actually recommend anything by Arnold Lobel. He tells the simplest and sweetest stories. This is a series about the friendship between two lovable amphibians and the adventures they have together in their woodland home through each of the seasons. They are heartwarming and silly and often involve mischief like missing buttons or melting ice cream. They are perfect for listening to during lunch, play, or an evening drive home from

grandma’s.

Fantastic Mr. Fox

by Roald Dahl For your beginning readers or elementary aged child I’d recommend anything by Roald Dahl, especially the ones that he narrates! With wild and magical characters, plenty of fantastical adventures & laugh-outloud silliness, his stories are definitely meant to be shared. Fantastic Mr. Fox is one of my family’s favorites as all the forest animals outwit three very ruthless farmers, but we also recommend The BFG, Matilda, and James and the Giant Peach. We’ve listened to these on long car rides as well as during baths, quiet time or

I hope this list inspires you to try out audiobooks. While many people don’t own CD players anymore, we often listen in our car and we also love to borrow audio books from the library!

You can get CDs, individual players that kids can listen to with headphones, or audio files that you can play from your phone or tablet. Happy reading & happy listening!

Let me be blunt. I am not a dog person. So when my 6-year-old picked this one out to listen to while we drive her older sister to school, I was a little hesitant. Instead I found myself completely absorbed in the story and we both ended up loving it! The book starts with 10 year old Abby Whistler taking her dog Tam to a competition a few hours from her home in North Carolina. On the drive home they are in a bad car accident in which Tam’s crate is thrown from the truck and lost in the mountains. The story follows the two friends as they try to find each other through a harsh and treacherous mountain winter. My 6 year old liked it, but some parts of the plot were a little confusing for her so I’d probably recommend this for the 8+ crowd. It was both heartwarming and exciting and, after listening, I kind of want to get a Shetland sheepdog.

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www.toledoparent.com • March 2019 •

21

Gabriel’s Gowns

Local mother transforms a horrible loss into something beautiful

By Erin Marsh

S

ara and Shaun Hagerty experienced every expecting parent’s worst nightmare: a regular OB check-up revealed their son, Gabriel, had passed in utero.

“Gabriel was our surprise baby,” fondly recalls Sara. “I was one of those stories--I thought I couldn’t get pregnant because I was nursing. Surprise! I was already 8 weeks along by the time we discovered I was pregnant.”

When the couple found out they were having another boy, Sara was ecstatic.

“If I was going to have two babies close in age, then I wanted them to be the same sex.” At that point, her oldest, Leah, was a toddler and her brother, JJ, was just a baby.

The heartbreak The pregnancy progressed normally with no issues. “We had our regular check up--I was about 5 to 6 months along--and they couldn’t find the heartbeat with the doppler. I instantly knew something was wrong. The night before, I hadn’t been able to feel any movement, but instead of doing what I was supposed to do and call immediately, I just waited.”

Sara hoped that the doppler was mistaken, but “the ultrasound confirmed he had passed,” says Sara.

The doctors hoped that Sara would go into labor naturally as it was the safest option. Even though her previous births had been c-sections, surgery this early in the pregnancy was too risky. Sara explains, “It was more of a question of where they would be cutting into--it wasn’t just all uterus like at the end of a pregnancy.”

Sara spent two days waiting to go into labor, hoping every pain was a contraction, but ended up being induced the day before Mother’s Day. “Everyone kept telling me, ‘You know that’s right before Mother’s Day?’ But I was in such a grief zone, it didn’t matter.”

After a long labor and delivery, baby Gabriel made his appearance late at night. “It was just me and my husband in the room...and we had a few hours to say our hellos and goodbyes.”

“He was tiny and perfect. He looked like all my other babies, just smaller.”

The cause of death was clear once Gabriel was delivered: an umbilical cord accident. “His umbilical cord where it

22

Q&A What’s your favorite activity to do with your family? Anything where we don’t have technology with us--a walk outside, the playground, out to dinner.

Best holiday memory from when you were a kid? As a kid, if you take presents out of the whole thing, 4th of July is my favorite. We’d go to my grandparents’ cottage in upstate NY on the 3rd, and all of my family got together and stayed the night.

What’s your go-to activity when you have a few minutes to yourself?

Besides scrolling Instagram? I enjoy reading-anything from memoirs of celebrities to books only moms can look at!

entered his body was twisted very, very badly. Of course I researched umbilical cord accidents, wondering, ‘Did I do this? Did I do that?’ But it’s ultimately an accident...a tragic and rare accident.”

The Hagerty family opted for cremation because they wanted Gabriel to be part of their home. “The funeral home kept asking us, ‘What do you want him to wear?’ And of all the things mothers plan for and research during pregnancy, I hadn’t planned on this...on my baby dying and what he was going to wear.”

The healing “The funeral home was amazing, and they suggested we find some really pretty fabric to swaddle him in. Fast forward a few months: I read about these NICU nurses in Texas who were collecting wedding dresses and making them into bereavement gowns.”

“I said to my husband, ‘My goodness wouldn’t that be great if we had this here?’ And after hearing me say that over and over, [Shaun] said, ‘If you want it here, bring it here!’”

Describe your life in five words or less.

Wouldn’t want it any other way.

What is your favorite Toledo hangout? I really like going downtown in the summertime with my friends--The Heights, the movies at Promenade Park, or that little bar at Imagination Station with great views of the water.

The rest, as they say, is history. Gabriel’s Gowns became an immediate success, and they still Describe Toledo in a sentence? Toledo was have gowns in storage only supposed to be a two year stop, and that was from the plethora of 12 years ago. Toledo will suck you in...and there’s donations. Sara clarifies nowhere else I’d rather be raising my family. that “My volunteers--a core group of Sylvania church-goers who sew for us--are our real heroes. They are the real superstars, and each gown is so unique and beautiful-like a snowflake.”

Sara concludes, “Grief looks different for everybody. For me, it was really When Sara isn’t volunteering with important that my friends and family Gabriel’s Gowns, the nonprofit she use his name and acknowledge that he founded, then she is working as the is real. I have four kids, and only three executive director of The American of them are here. It’s important that Heart Association and raising her three Gabriel is not forgotten...that I can talk beautiful children who are here, Leah about him.”

(10), JJ (6), and Nicholas (4).

• March 2019 • www.toledoparent.com

healthy kids

Signs, Symptoms and Statistics

What you need to know about sibling sexual abuse

By Jamie Lober

Sibling Sexual Abuse isn’t something we want to think about, much less talk about. But it’s actually more common than you might know and it’s important to be educated on what to watch for.

When families hear the term sex offender they think of an adult. The reality is that, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, one-third of sex offenses against kids are committed by minors. Mothers of Sexually Abused Children defined sibling sexual abuse as a more powerful sibling who is older and/or stronger coercing a younger sibling into sexual activity through force, the threat of force, bribes or a promise of special attention or gift to make the victim keep the abuse secret.

“Sibling sexual abuse has been around for a very long time and statistics show it has increased because of exposure to pornography as well as the prevalence of adult to child sexual abuse,” said Dr. Mel Lengston, counselor with Mothers of Sexually Abused Children in Astoria, Oregon.

What to do It’s important to know signs to watch for, what kinds of conversations to have and what is considered normal childhood curiosity versus crossing the line. “After a child has been sexually abused by a sibling they may exhibit a variety of behavioral changes such as poor self-esteem, PTSD symptoms, selfblame, nightmares, aggressiveness, ageinappropriate sexual behaviors and unhealthy coping habits such as drug use or self-harm,” said Tristin Crawley, program coordinator of the child abuse prevention program at the Family and Child Abuse Prevention Center in Toledo.

If you think one of your children could be an abuser or a victim, ask yourself if the behavior is age-appropriate, how long it has been going on, if one of the siblings is forced to participate and what the purpose may be. “There is normal sexual exploration but when a child shows specific behaviors, they are showing knowledge that should not be present (without exposure to that information),” said Lengston.

Trust your child The biggest thing you can do is take your child’s word for it. “Very few children lie about sibling sexual abuse so I have a mantra that says believe, sup-

port and protect,” said Lengston. Even though it is a family member, sibling sexual abuse must be reported. “If a sibling abuses a sibling that is as serious as him abusing anybody else because it sets up a pattern for abusive behaviors.”

By keeping open lines of communication, your child should feel more comfortable coming to you to discuss serious issues like sexual abuse. “It is complex because the child will always love that family member and not want to get them in trouble so he will be confused,” said Lengston.

It’s important to know ...what is considered normal childhood curiosity versus crossing the line.

Communicate and prevent It’s never too early to talk to your child about what behavior is okay and what is not. Teach your child not to keep secrets from you. “Know that it is okay to talk about sexual abuse because you do not have secrets. A lot of times the offender says this is just between us and this is our secret,” said Sarah Hall, counselor.

Experts also suggest that your child has a safe space. Talk about and review safety strategies with your child. “Teach your children to ask permission before they hug someone; do not force him to show affection to friends or family members; talk openly about sexual matters in a developmentally appropriate and respectful way; talk about the difference between safe and unsafe touches and allow children to help themselves in the bathroom or shower if they can,” said Crawley.

Be informed “The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention did a study that people did not want to believe but in a predominantly college-educated neighborhood 1 out of every 4 girls and 1 out of every 6 boys has been sexually abused by the age of 18,” said Lengston. Monitoring screen time and having filters on devices can have a positive impact. “22 percent of all pornography that was viewed by children under 18 was viewed by children under 10 because they have phones with internet connections,” said Lengston.

Seek help If your family is affected by sibling sexual abuse, it’s important to bring it out in the open, talk about it and seek help. “A lot of times people are afraid to seek professional guidance but more times than not we are able to give guidance and help them with the behaviors,” said Michelle Coutcher, a local clinical social worker/therapist with an office in Oregon. “That professional guidance is necessary for the whole family to heal.”

www.toledoparent.com • March 2019 •

23

Hidden Gem No More!

The word is out about Local Thyme By: Karen L. Zickes

LOCAL THYME

6719 Providence St. Whitehouse 43571 567-246-5014 Mon-Wed: 11a.m.-11p.m.

Thur: 11a.m.-12a.m.

Fri-Sat: 11a.m.-1a.m.

Sun: 11a.m.-10p.m. www.localthyme.pub Trying out new restaurants never gets old for me and the kids. That being said, I will continue to conger up my own preconceived notions about a place, good or bad, and I will continue being spot on only fifty percent of the time. Recently, the boys and I stopped by a local restaurant that I had thought might be a local dive. This would prove to be one of those times I was very wrong.

A local hidden gem The Local Thyme Restaurant and Bar (Local Thyme for short), has been a staple in downtown Whitehouse for years.

Though it opened in 2007, Skip Walker bought it in 2013 and made it his own.

According to general manager Kristopher Bailey, “He (Skip) painted, stained,

decorated, and remodeled the entire store mostly by himself. In my opinion he is an all American example of what a little hard work and heartfelt passion will get you when you set a goal and expect no other outcome than that of perfection.”

Not long ago Toledo City Paper readers voted Local Thyme a hidden gem. And to be honest, I’m not sure a lot of my friends are familiar with it; other than the ones that live out that direction and eat there regularly. So regularly, that when I asked them last minute to join us for dinner they said, “Unfortunately we already have plans, but we ate there last night! You’ll love it!” The word is out and I’m thinking it may soon lose the “hidden gem” status.

That’s not a bad thing.

The Short Course

Kid-friendly: Yes! There is a large selection of toys, books, coloring books etc.

To avoid wait: Anytime, but dinner hours can be busier.

Noise level: Moderate to loud depending on how busy they are.

Bathroom amenities: No changing station.

High Chairs: Yes. Got milk? Yes. Kids’ menu? Yes, and kids 10 and under eat free on Tuesdays with purchase of an entrée.

Allergy info: Be sure to alert your server prior to ordering so they can be sure there is no cross contamination.

Friendly service and delicious eats Along with a few food suggestions, my friend was also sure to tell me the people are nice and the service is great. We were looking forward to checking it out. It was a Sunday evening about 6pm when we

arrived. The place was hopping and filled with families.There is a separate dining area away from the bar that is especially nice for families or anyone wanting a quieter evening. There is even a dedicated area for the kids to choose books, toys, coloring books, and more to keep them occupied. As Mr. Bailey put it, they really look to be a family restaurant, yet they want the parents to feel like they have a little bit of a break as well.

Tory was our fabulous and friendly server. She was very helpful as we struggled to select our entrees. The boys and I planned to try three things and share them all equally. Can you guess where this is going? A couple bites were shared and then they laid claim to their plates and that was the end of the sharing. One thing we did share was their GIANT soft pretzel served with a variety of dipping sauces and cheese. We had to set it aside during dinner, but ate the rest of it for dessert and dipped it in the cinnamon butter.

Delicious!

Their chicken chunks, fresh and flavorful, are prepared a variety of ways. We 24

• March 2019 • www.toledoparent.com

Bottom Line:

You will be made to feel like one of the locals, whether you are or not, at Local Thyme. The great service and food will be reason enough to return. But the fact you don’t have to BYOT (bring your own toys) for the kids is a bonus.

Parents may actually relax even with the little ones in tow. And kids eat free on Tuesday! also tried a fresh made burger and fries as well as their homemade mac ‘n cheese with pork belly on top. Mr. Bailey pointed out that they smoke their meats in house, as well as most everything else. They have a smoker outside and he told me the smoked corned beef Rueben is amazing.

Kids also eat free on Tuesdays. However, most meals are about $5.99 and include drink, applesauce, and fries. That’s a pretty good deal, even if it isn’t Tuesday.

Small town, big fun Check out their calendar for live music and special events such as their 80’s party, or the summer family friendly beach party. Last year they unloaded five tons of sand in the parking lot. I think that’s a party I won’t want to miss this year. They are open late and open seven days a week so there is always some kind of fun (or friendly face) awaiting you.

{ March

2019 }

All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation and limited size. Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

1 FRIDAY

4 MONDAY

Opening Exhibition “Demon Rum & Cold Water: The Two Sides of Temperance” - The multi-media exhibition focuses on the Prohibition years in America. Hear about how the Hayes family played a part in the drama. $5-$20. Kids under 5 are free. 9am-5pm.

Hayes Presidential Library, Spiegel Grove, Fremont. 419-332-2081. rbhayes.org

Intro to Drama Course - This ten hour course is perfect for elementary students, in grades 3rd and up, interested in acting and theatre. $100-$125. 5:30pm. The course runs ten weeks, Mondays through 5.6. Sylvania Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. 419-517-0118. sylvaniaarts.org

Treecity Playhouse “The Fourth Wall” - The community theatre presents the family-friendly play

by A. R. Gurney. 7:30pm. Also Saturday, 3.2, Friday, 3.8 and Saturday, 3.9. $10$12. Church 3Twenty, 5845 Centennial Rd., Sylvania. sylvaniaarts.org

Spring Break Kids Camp The Recreation and Wellness Department at BGSU will host a five day camp for kids ages 5-12 years. Daily activities include field trips and educational games and sports. $125-$145. 9am-4pm.

Through Friday, 3.8. BGSU Recreation, 1411 Ridge St., Bowling Green.

419-372-2000. bgsu.edu/recwell.html

2 SATURDAY Bird’s Eye View Circus Show Prepare to be amazed at the circus troupe’s spring show “Equinox”. From daring acrobatics to dizzying aerial silks, the audience will be left spellbound. $5-$12.

7pm. BEV Circus at Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Blvd.

567-298-6841. birdseyeviewcircus.com Putting on the Glitz - The fundraiser for Lucas County Pit Crew, a non-profit caring for local abandoned pitbulls, will feature a doggie fashion show, auction and grazing stations. $65. Pinnacle, 1772 Indian Wood Circle, Maumee. canineadvocate1@ yahoo.com. lucascountypitcrew.com “Hedy and Her Amazing Invention” - Meet at TMA Family Center to make crafts and collages based on the book. After, head down for a musical parade and reading of the children’s book with author Jan Wahl. Noon-3pm.

Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. toledomuseum.org Free Historic Cooking Demo Witness traditional folk arts at the Log Cabin. Visitors will watch as breakfast is cooked over an open fire at the Museum.

Admission varies. 1-4pm. Wood County Historical Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green. 419-352-0967. woodcountyhistory.org Chili Cook-Off - Be the judge at this taste competition benefiting Maritime Academy of Toledo and the National Museum of the Great Lakes. $10. 1-5pm.

Fifth Third Center, 1 Seagate.

419-214-5000. inlandseas.org

3 SUNDAY Family Fun Nights - Explore Hero’s Party Experience with the family, complete with inflatable fun and games. $10. 5-8pm. Hero’s, 9851 Meridian Ct., Rossford. 419-351-2102. axe419.com

5 TUESDAY

6 WEDNESDAY Advanced Drama Course Elementary students in 3rd grade and up that have had some theatre experience will gain over 10 hours of acting experience and have fun playing games and working on scenes. 5:30pm. Every Wednesday through 5.8. Sylvania Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania.

419-517-0118. sylvaniaarts.org Homeschoolers - Learn about orienteering using a compass and your outdoor environment. The class will go on a short hike. 10:30am. Slippery Elm Trail, 14810 Freyman Rd., Cygnet.

419-353-1897. wcparks.org Free Homeschoolers’ Workshop Sewn Circuits program explores the basics of electricity and sew together a light-up object. $12-$17.

10:30am-noon. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. 419-244-2674. imaginationstationtoledo.org

Family Fun Factory Friday, March 1, 5:30-5:30pm Fort Meigs YMCA, 13415 Eckel Junction Rd, Perrysburg,

Time to get out of winter hibernation and have some fun! End the workweek on a high note at Fort Meigs YMCA’s Family Fun Factory, a free two-hour event dedicated to laughs for your whole crew. Enjoy Pattrick’s Magic, large backyard games, and bounce houses. A Kidzs Bop DJ will provide the soundtrack. And don’t forget to test your family’s fitness prowess in the Family Fitness Challenge! Snacks provided. This event is free and open to the community.

Monster Jam Sunday, March 10, 6pm Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave, Toledo

Grab your tickets (and your earplugs!) and head to the Huntington Center when Monster Jam returns on March 10 at 6pm. This adrenaline-charged entertainment features favorites like Grave Digger, Max-D, El Toro Loco and many more monster trucks providing jaw-dropping displays and gravity-defying feats in Freestyle, 2-Wheel Skills and racing competitions sure to please the entire family.

Tickets range in price from $15 - $45 and are available online through Ticketmaster.

Playzone

Limitless Dance Company The Toledo School for the Arts dance company presents their program “Sculpted.”

The production brings famous works of art and dance together. $10-$22. 7pm. Also, 7pm. Thursday, 3.7. Valentine Theatre, 410 Adams St. 419-246-8732. ts4arts.org

7 THURSDAY Story of the Swamp - Learn about the history of NWO and the Great Black Swamp region from it’s geological formations and wildlife. 7pm. Otsego Park, 20000 W. River Rd., Bowling Green.

419-353-1897. wcparks.org Free

8 FRIDAY Teen Night Planning Committee - Teens are invited to get involved in planning Teen Night events at TMA. 4:30pm. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. toledomuseum.org Free

Silver’s Secret Friday, Saturday, Sunday March 22-24 Children’s TheatreWorkshop, 2417 Collingwood Blvd.

It’s a treasure chest of silliness for the whole family when Charlotte Nixon’s Silver’s Secret takes the stage at The Children’s Theatre Workshop. The play, about famous pirate Long John Silver, includes cheerleader mermaids, ghosts, smugglers, lobsters and more.

Friday shows at 9:45am and 12:30 pm. Saturday and Sunday showtimes are 2pm and 5pm. Tickets range from $6-$8. 419-244-5061. ctwtoledo.org

Cabin fever getting you down?

Get out of the house and head to Playzone Toledo. This 15,000 square foot facility of fun has something for kids of all ages, including mini arcade games, laser tag, bumper cars, Nerf gun battle blasters, jungle virtual reality and a playground with a ball pit for little ones. With daily discounts and specials (follow their Facebook page) and great deals on game cards ($10/kid for unlimited game play without tickets for one hour), you’ll find this is affordable family fun this winter. Playzone Toledo, 130 New Towne Square Dr., Toledo. playzonetoledo.com

www.toledoparent.com • March 2019 •

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Fairy Paintings - Visit the fairy garden on site and paint a picture inspired by your visit. Ages 8-14. $15. 5-7pm.

577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 419-874-4174.

577foundation.org

9 SATURDAY Family Concert - Create crafts inspired by music in the TMA Family Center then head to the concert with the family-friendly Spoleto Festival classical ensemble for a sing-a-long. 10am-noon. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. toledomuseum.org Free 13th Steppin’ Out - The TSA scholarship fundraiser will feature a fashion show, auction, dinner and prizes. $85. 6-10pm. Renaissance Toledo, 444 N. Summit St. 419-246-8732. ts4arts.org Fantasticon - This ‘comiccon’ style event will feature artists, actors and comic book authors along with countless vendors, activities and panels. $5.50-$14.

10am-6pm. And 10am-5pm, Sunday, 3.10. Seagate Center, 401 Jefferson Ave. 419-25-3300. fantasticon.net

10 SUNDAY Greater Toledo Train & Toy Show Shop and browse from over 250 toy and model train vendors. From antique collector’s items to extensive model train layouts and train rides for the kids, this event is not to be missed. $6-$10.

9am-3pm. Owens Community College, 30335 Oregon Rd., Perrysburg.

419-215-4181. toymasters.org

Toledo Symphony Youth Orchestra Concert - The youth orchestra members play along side with their TSO counterparts for a special performance. $10.

4-6pm. TMA Peristyle, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. toledosymphony.org The Magic of Colored Pencils - The class will go in-depth with it’s exploration of professional pencil drawing and coloring. $35. 1-4pm. Art Supply Depo, 29 S. Saint Clair St. 419-720-6462. For a list of materials required visit artsupplydepo.com

11 MONDAY Mushroom Identification - Dr. Bob Antibus will share his knowledge of mycology and get families started mushroom hunting outdoors. 7-8pm. Waterville Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville.

419-878-3055. toledolibrary.org Free

12 TUESDAY Super Shamrocks - Kids ages 5-10 can decorate an Irish Shamrock and listen to Irish music. 4-5pm. Birmingham Library, 203 Paine Ave. 419-259-5210. toledolibrary.org Free

14 THURSDAY Zenobia Shrine Circus - The circus is in town! Bring the family to the Seagate Center for four nights of performances. $10. 6:30pm. Additional showtimes through Sunday, 3.10. Seagate Center, 401 Jefferson Ave. 419-255-3300. hensvilletoledo.com

e h t n w o d d n ” “ e A m o c y e h t h stretc 2018

15 FRIDAY Maumee Drama “Newsies” Drama students at Maumee High put on the musical “Newsies”. $7-$12. 7pm.

Saturday, 3.16. 2:30pm. Sunday, 3.17.

Maumee High Theatre, 1147 Saco St., Maumee. 419-893-3200. eventbrite.com

16 SATURDAY Maple Sugaring Festival - Discover the nutritious, delicious natural sweetener, maple syrup. Shop the Maple Market and take part in the Pancake Cook-Off while watching educational demonstrations.

11am-3pm. Olander Park, 6930 Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. 419-882-8313. olanderpark.com Free Little League Hockey - Ages 5-8 will get a crash course in hockey. The session includes: equipment rental and fitting, Little Walleye jersey and free tickets to the Walleye game. $150. Times: 8:30am9:30am. Saturday 3.16, Sunday 3.24 and Saturday 3.30. Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave. 419-725-4367. hensvilletoledo.com Kids’ Day at Hayes - Children through 12 years are invited to participate in a Victorian tea party at the Museum. $3 per kid. 11am-12:30pm. Hayes Presidential Library, Spiegel Grove, Fremont.

419-332-2081. rbhayes.org Cook-off for Mobile Meals Donations are welcome at this chili cookoff competition. Family activities include vendors, face painting and a DJ. Noon4pm. Stranahan Theater Great Hall, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. 419-2557806. mobilemeals.org Free

19 TUESDAY “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” - Broadway in Toledo presents Roald Dahl’s story of young Charlie and his adventures in the mysterious Willie Wonka. $34-$84. 7:30pm. Additional shows through Saturday, 3.23. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. 419381-8851. broadwayintoledo.com

20 WEDNESDAY 5th Bulldog Madness - Stop in for fun family activities, food trucks, raffles, face painting and more. 5-8pm. St. George Hall, 740 Glenwood Rd., Rossford.

419-662-3922. rossfordschools.org Free

21 THURSDAY East Y Food Co-Op - Pickup $40 worth of groceries for only $10, every 3rd Thursday of the month. Proceeds go to Enpuzzlement programming. Register in advance. $10. 3:30-5pm. Eastern Community YMCA, 2960 Pickle Rd., Oregon. 419-729-8135. ymcatoledo.org

Tickets Available now!

FRIDAY MARCH 8, 2019

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6:30pm Premier Catering Heatherdowns

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Save the date 26

3.8.19

22 FRIDAY CTW “Silver’s Secret” - The Children’s Theatre Workshop Players Company (ages 7-9) performs the children’s play

by Charlotte Nixon. $6-$8. 2pm & 5pm.

Also 2pm & 5pm Saturday, 2.24.

CTW at Collingwood Arts Center, 2417 Collingwood Blvd. 419-244-5061. ctwtoledo.org

• March 2019 • www.toledoparent.com

23 SUNDAY Easter Cards - Create greeting cards for the holiday using paper crafts and colorful materials. All ages. $10.

1-2:30pm. Sunshine Studios, 305 Conant St., Maumee.

419-865-0251. sunshinestudio.org Once Upon a Storytime - Laurel’s Princess Parties will host a 60 minute storytime. 10-11am. Way Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. facebook.com/laurelsprincessparties Free

24 Monday Metroparks Talk: Manhattan Marsh - Visitors will get a lesson in history at the March lecture, looking at the transformation of the newest Metropark in Lucas County. 2:30-3:30pm. Macomber Lodge at Pearson Park, 4999 Navarre Ave., Oregon. 419-270-7500. metroparkstoledo.com Free

25 Tuesday “The Lion King” - The American Theatre Guild presents the touring company as the smash hit makes an incredible 3-week run at the Stranahan. Don’t miss this Tony winning musical. Spring/Summer Season Memberships start at $160.

Ticket prices vary. 7pm. Additional showtimes through April 12. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd.

419-381-8851. americantheaterguild.com

28 THURSDAY Maple Sugaring - A demonstration on the art of maple sugaring will be presented. Learn to tap, boil and bottle with the best of them. 10am-noon. Historic Carter Farm, 18331 Carter Rd., Bowling Green.

419-353-1897. wcparks.org Free

29 Friday Stories of the Stars Nike Hike Take a late night hike on the battlefield, and try to imagine yourself on the river before settlers got here. You might be surprised by all the stars. 8:30-9:30pm.

Fallen Timbers Battlefield Park, 4949 Jerome Rd., Maumee. 419-270-7500. metroparkstoledo.com Free

30 SATURDAY Easter Egg Hunt - The hunt is on! Look for hidden eggs and prizes. The event will have live music, crafts, food games and more. Noon-2pm. Believe Center, 1 Aurora Gonzalez Dr., 567-200-2027. facebook.com/believecenterinc Free Map & Compass Class - Ages 8-12 will learn how to use a compass and a map in this educational course. $10.

10-11am. 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 419-874-4174.

577foundation.

31 Sunday Mom 2 Mom Sale - Shop dozens of booths, filled with gently used baby items, like clothes and accessories. 9am-4pm.

Maumee Bay Lodge, 1750 State Park Rd. #2, Oregon. 419-836-0009. Learn more on how to set up your own booth.

Through 3/23

A Day with my #BFF Get creative with a short work of fiction, based on the concept of spending the day with anyone in the world. Grades K-12 can compete for cash prizes, awarded to first fourth place. Details online. Enter now through March 23. toledolibrary.org/writingcontest Free

Monday-Friday

Connecting Kids to Meals Various Toledo Library branches will offer free after school meals to kids and teens, through age 18, throughout the week. Times vary per location.

Call your library for more information.

419-259-5200. toledolibrary.org Free

Mondays

STEM Mondays - Ages eight and under will learn about math and science through hands-on activities and puzzles. 4-5pm.

Wood County Library, 251 N. Main St., Bowling Green. 419-352-5104. wcpl.org Free

Tuesdays

Family Center Open The Family Center at the Toledo Museum of Art is open to kids and their guardians to create crafts, read story books and play games in the community play room.

Stop by and see what art project is going on. Parking rates apply. Open Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10am-3pm. Fridays, 3:308pm. Saturdays & Sundays, Noon-5pm.

Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. toledomuseum.org Free

marketplace

Saturdays

HELP WANTED

Storytime at Plate One Meet other families with young children at this weekly storytime hour at this downtown coffeeshop. Parking is free at any meter. 11:30am. Plate One, 420 Madison Ave. 419-385-2121. facebook.com/plateone Free Think Tank Workshops These intensive workshops feature a new monthly activity for ages seven and up. $8-$10. 2pm. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. 419-244-2674. imaginationstationtoledo.org

Free Admission Mondays The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium has an admission special on Mondays for Lucas County residents. Bring your identification to gain free admission. 10am-noon. Parking rates apply.

(Non-residents tickets are $16-$19 and free for kids under 2.) Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-5721. toledozoo.org

Tuesday Morning Storytime This 30 minute weekly event will feature a group reading of fun picture books for toddlers and young children. 10am.

Gathering Volumes, 196 E. South Boundary St., Perrysburg. 567-336-6188. gatheringvolumes.com Free

After School Program While the Main Library is closed, the Ebeid Institute, located above the Market on the Green, serves as an off-site location of the Children’s Library programming. Stop by every Monday (excluding holidays) for core reading and learning after school programing. 3-5pm. Market on the Green, 1806 Madison Ave., 419-259-5200. toledolibrary.org Free

Toddler Trails - Dress for a short hike through Wildwood with your youngster.

Registration required. $2 per child.

10-11am. Wildwood Preserve, 5100 Central Ave. 419-407-9700. metroparkstoledo.com

Sippy Cup Storytime - Reading Barefoot with Lindsey hosts a weekly Saturday story hour. Children will play, sing songs and listen to a story while the adults enjoy a hot beverage of their choice. Please support the shop.

9:30-10:30am. SIP Coffee, 3160 Markway Rd. 419-407-5038. facebook.com/barefootlindsey Free

Wednesdays

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www.toledoparent.com • March 2019 •

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