Columbus Parent January 2011

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

I was born almost 4 months early.

But Ohio State was ready for me.

Only The Ohio State University Medical Center offers unparalleled expertise in high-risk pregnancy care in central Ohio. Prenatal genetic screening and diagnosis.

High-risk pregnancy care. Advanced ultrasound.

Learn more about baby Macaiah’s arrival and OSU Maternal Fetal Medicine care at medicalcenter.osu.edu/go/MFM. | 614.293.2222

Mark B. Landon, MD | David Colombo, MD | Celeste Durnwald, MD | Hugh Ehrenberg, MD | Jay Iams, MD | Wanjiku Musindi, MD Richard O’Shaughnessy, MD | Mona Prasad, DO | Britton Rink, MD | Philip Samuels, MD | Cynthia Shellhaas, MD

columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

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getting started: TABLE OF CONTENTS ON THE GO

FAMILY FUN

10 12 13

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14 15 16 17 18 19 20 22

NEWS ON THE GO PRODUCT PIX COLUMBUS PARENT PROFILE:

EATING OUT WITH KIDS: Dim Sum at

Sunflower Chinese Restaurant

Upper Arlington’s Chris Spielman ANATOMY OF: a diaper bag WELL-DRESSED: What the well-dressed snow bunny is wearing PEOPLE YOU SHOULD MEET: Mrs. Jo Kirk HOUSEBROKEN: Dispatch columnist Joe Blundo TAKE IT FROM TRACY: 10TV’s Tracy Townsend VITAMIN ME: Capital Style editor Kristy Eckert NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT: Hilliard SHOP SPOTLIGHT: Outside the Lines Creative Studio

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58 60

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COOKING WITH KIDS: Rise and

Shine with Flip Flap Jack PARTIES: A CandyCoated Birthday at MJ’s Candy & Events in Dublin HANDS ON: A Snowy Day project DAY TRIPPIN’: Mad River Mountain in Zanesfield PLAYGROUND PATROL: Graeter’s

Scoops & Shoots in Northwest Columbus REVIEWS: Books, apps, games, websites and music

CALENDAR: 155 THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH

NEED TO KNOW 24 26 28

PEDIATRIC HEALTHSOURCE: from Nationwide Children’s Hospital THE GO-TO GUIDE: Getting your kids’ space organized AGE-APPROPRIATE: CHILDCARE AGES 0-1: Baby Steps:

Choosing the Right Caregiver for Your Infant AGES 3-5: Time for Preschool? Select the One That’s Right for Your Child AGES 9-12: To SACC or to Latch? The After School Dilemma 31 51

SPECIAL PULL-OUT GUIDE HANDY MOM: New uses

for Coca-Cola

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HOT TOPICS 31

CHILDCARE THE CHILDCARE CENTERS DIRECTORY: from Columbus Parent and Action for Children • READING YOUR RIGHTS: How to use a state inspection sheet • AT-HOME PROVIDERS: Another option for quality childcare

| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

ON THE COVER: Winter fun at MAD RIVER MOUNTAIN Zanesfield, Ohio, 1-800-231-SNOW, skimadriver.com

PHOTO BY DANIEL SOHNER

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CALL TODAY SPACE IS LIMITED! columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

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getting started: LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Hurtling into 2011

BY JANE HAWES

ColumbusParent.com 34 S. Third St. Columbus, Ohio 43215 614-461-8878 (voice) 614-461-8746 (fax) 614-888-8888 (classifieds) www.ColumbusParent.com PUBLISHER

Katie Wolfe Lloyd Having grown up in the flatlands of New York State’s Long Island (pronounced “Lawn Guyland”), I was a latecomer to the world of gravity-based winter sports (sledding, skiing, snowboarding, etc.). You native Ohioans might think most of Ohio is flat.

Compared to Long Island, I can tell you it is not. In Ohio, you just have to know where to find the dips and divots in the terrain.

And finding those dips and divots is one of the things I’ve enjoyed most about motherhood. The way I see it, you can either sit in the car with the heater going while your kids hurtle down snow-covered hills, or you can get out there yourself and show them how it’s done. Besides, isn’t that what God made ibuprofen for?

We have a secret sledding spot in our town (don’t bother begging me to tell you where it is, because I will not). It’s perfect — steep, wide, sheltered from the wind, and it doesn’t end near traffic.

I love sledding. Botox might take years off how old you look, but sledding takes years off how old you feel. I’ll take the latter any day.

This month in Columbus Parent we’ve got plenty of ideas about hurtling into the new year. Maybe you’re trying to get your kids’ toys and clothes organized. We’ve got that covered in our Go-To Guide. Maybe you’re looking for quality childcare.

Check out the robust pull-out directory of childcare programs, resources and articles that we put together with the Action for Children agency and our team of great writers.

Or maybe you’re looking for a little inspiration. I know I found plenty when I was privileged to interview Mrs. Jo Kirk, founder of the WeJoySing musiceducation program, now entering its 25th year. And then again when I interviewed Chris Spielman, who is honoring his late wife Stefanie’s legacy not just in continuing her fundraising work for breast-cancer research but in raising their four children. When Spielman says he has to repeat something 572 times before it sinks in to his kids’ brains, you know you’re talking to a man who has earned his dad stripes.

I’d also like to take this opportunity to invite you to get in touch and provide us with feedback. This

kwolfe@columbusparent.com DIRECTOR OF NICHE PUBLICATIONS

Brian Lindamood blindamood@columbusparent.com EDITOR

Jane Hawes jhawes@columbusparent.com NICHE PUBLICATIONS ADVERTISING MANAGER

Amy Bishop abishop@columbusparent.com ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Jessica Wrightsel jwrightsel@columbusparent.com DIGITAL ADVERTISING SPECIALIST

Vanessa Micic vmicic@columbusparent.com PHOTO EDITOR

Will Shilling wshilling@columbusparent.com PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR

Rebecca Zimmer rzimmer@columbusparent.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Michaela Schuett mschuett@columbusparent.com PHOTOGRAPHER

Daniel Sohner dsohner@columbusparent.com DANIEL SOHNER PHOTO

WEB PRODUCER

Elizabeth Warren issue marks the sixth one we’ve published since our redesign in August, and we’d love to know more about what you think. While we can’t cover every part of Central Ohio in every issue, we are trying over the course of many issues to be an accurate reflection of the diverse parenting community that we’re all a part of.

If you feel there are stories we need to tell, let us know! And if you would like to invite us to see how you throw a birthday party or cook with your kids, please get in touch! You can e-mail me at jhawes@columbusparent.com.

In the meantime, thank you very much for reading and for being a Columbus Parent, too!

ewarren@columbusparent.com CALENDAR EDITOR

Nikki Davis ndavis@columbusparent.com CONTRIBUTORS Debbie Angelos, Joe Blundo, Olivera Bratich, Geoff Dutton, Melissa Kossler Dutton, Kristy Eckert, Kristen Maetzold, Mara Marcom, Marguerite Marsh, Jodi Miller, Phil Pikelny, Elizabeth Seufer, Truda Shinker, Shawn Sines, Tracy Townsend DISTRIBUTION If you would like to receive Columbus Parent at your business, or to report delivery concerns: Chris Maines 614-778-9026 cmaines@dispatch.com Columbus Parent is published and distributed by The Dispatch Printing Company every month, available at more than 1,200 locations throughout Central Ohio. One free copy per person. Circulation: 58,000 copies. Copyright © 2011 The Dispatch Printing Company

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

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Chase Away the Winter Chills!

getting started: ON THE WEB

We pay $$$ on the spot for gently used clothing, toys & equipment your kids have outgrown. PLUS, low prices on everything they need NOW!

6 Columbus Area Locations Dublin • Columbus • Gahanna Grove City • Reynoldsburg • Westerville Hours: M-S 10am to 8 pm Sunday NOON to 5pm

ColumbusParent.com

It’s your source for the Daily Bulletin,

our week-daily blast of hints about happenings around town (free gift wrapping classes and story times), helpful parenting info (book and game reviews), ways to give back (coat donations), great freebies (an Xbox 360 Power Gig), and ways to be good to yourself (free chocolate!).

For Store Information and directions, please visit

BOOKMARK COLUMBUSPARENT.COM AND DON’T MISS A DAY!

www.onceuponachildcolumbus.com

A Totally New Kind of Resale Store For Women www.clothes-mentor.com Hours: M-S 10am to 8 pm Sunday NOON to 5pm

In Arlington 2011 Henderson Rd

614-923-0166

Located In Front of Krogers on Henderson Rd.

In Westerville

399 S. State St.

614-899-3000

This is the community part of ColumbusParent.com. Click on the Momstyle link on the home page to reach the message boards and join the conversation with other Central Ohio moms and dads just like you!

Located in the Cherry Park Plaza by Once Upon A Child

FACEBOOK OR

A $100 shopping spree at Clothes Mentor® Get More for your closet by shopping at Clothes Mentor®, where you can buy the most sought-after brands, in “like new” condition, for about 70% off mall prices. Your friends will never know you bought it used, and that $100 will give you a closet full of options to wear!

A $100 day at the mall.

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

The Columbus Parent Magazine page on Facebook has become the place to visit for great giveaways.

Here are just a few of the goodies we passed along in December — tickets to BalletMet’s Nutcracker, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s Wildlights, the Wexner Center’s Zoom Family Film Festival, and First Night Columbus! Could those rumors about Cirque du Soleil and Disney on Ice tickets prove true next month?

Get those re-tweeting skills in shape @ColumbusParent, and you could win all kinds of goodies here, too. Last month it was Zoo tickets and Mannheim Steamroller concert tickets. What will it be in the new year?

The enchantment starts at $13 (Service c harges, facility and handling fees may apply.)

JAN. 19 - 23 1-800-745-3000 • www.disneyonice.com columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

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on the go: NEWS ON THE GO

Pretend Hospital From the outside, it’s just an old supermarket, overshadowed by the construction projects going on all around it. On the inside, though, it’s a design laboratory for Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s ambitious expansion project, set to open in June 2012.

Last month, NCH invited visitors to tour this “pretend hospital” inside the former Kroger store at the corner of Parsons and Livingston Avenues where they have been testing and tweaking all kinds of design innovations.

The “mock rooms,” as they’re known, include an

acute-care inpatient room, an operating suite, nurses’ station, medication room and other prototypes, which prefigure the rooms that will be part of the one million-square-foot expansion of NCH’s existing two-million-square-foot campus.

The faucets don’t work in this pretend hospital, but the rest of it looks quite real.

Thanks to suggestions from patients and parents, the sleeper/sofa and glider/recliner in the patient rooms are wider, softer and more comfortable than ever before. The walls have magnetic paint, allowing for the

easy display of artwork and get-well cards.

Thanks to input from nurses, used to years of maneuvering around each other, the layout of the nurses’ station has been redesigned to put the mostused medicines at eye level, and acoustic tiles have been installed overheard to reduce noise.

“The staff and patients have been given a real voice in all this,” said Scott McClure, an engineering project manager who was showing visitors a new foyer with swipe-card security cards.

Donna Teach, NCH’s vice

Goodbye to DROP-SIDE CRIBS A year from now, dropside cribs will be no more.

On Dec. 15, the Consumer Product Safety Commission outlawed the cribs, which have been implicated in more than 30 infant deaths in the last decade.

The cribs, which have been in use for decades, have a sliding side rail, designed to make it easier to reach in and lift a child out. But the rail can malfunction and detach, trapping a child between the rail and mattress, and sometimes resulting in death by suffocation.

According to the new CPSC regulation, childcare providers and hotels will have up to one year — until Dec. 15, 2011 — to replace any drop-side cribs they are using. But after June 2011, the cribs can no longer be manufactured, sold or resold.

In the past five years, more than 9 million drop-side cribs have been recalled, including cribs from well-known manufacturers like Evenflo, Delta Enterprise and Pottery Barn Kids. Many of these companies have been offering free repair kits that will convert a drop-side crib to a fixed-side crib. To find out if you can obtain one, contact your crib’s manufacturer. —JANE HAWES

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

DORAL CHENOWETH III/DISPATCH PHOTO

president of marketing, said the architects involved with the $840 million expansion project have indicated they’ve neither seen nor

heard of such a large-scale hospital construction project that tested out its design innovations in such a real way.

“In the long run, it’s saving us a lot of money because we’re figuring it all out here first,” Teach said.

—JANE HAWES

CREATIVITY CENTRAL The renovation at the Columbus Museum of Art has hit its first big milestone, reopening much of its existing space on Jan. 1. Columbus Parent got a sneak preview a couple weeks earlier and all we can say is — Wow! You can feel a seismic shift going on with CMA’s approach to art and the community. This is not going to be a space where children will feel unwelcome or unengaged. Case in point: The Wonder Room (see photo). It’s a space filled with all kinds of hands-on, highly tactile materials that kids (of all ages) can play with, clamber on, and just plain experience.

The room is part of the new, 18,000square-foot Center for Creativity, which will feature even more art classes and workshops than ever before. An Innovation Lab has computers and editing bays, and they’ve already had highschool kids Skyping with peers in California as they collaborate on creative and critical-thinking projects.

The Center for Creativity’s first big

JEFF HINCKLEY/DISPATCH PHOTO

exhibition, entitled “Don’t Eat the Art,” is a fantastic start to CMA’s mission to stimulate creativity for the whole fami-

ly. You and your kids will love it all.

For more information, go to columbusmuseum.org. —JANE HAWES

around town

DANIEL SOHNER PHOTOS

Where the happening kids just happened to be

BALLETMET’S NUTCRACKER AT THE OHIO THEATRE DECEMBER 17

Kayla Weaver; Emma, Leah and Addison Pugh

Camron Harris and Madison Davis

DANIEL SOHNER PHOTO

GET UP AND GO

Walking! One of my favorite activities! Walking with children — multiple the joy!

Walking can happen anytime, anywhere, any season for no or every reason. Dress according to the weather. Dress comfortably. Grab your stroller, carriage or nearest hand, and close the door behind you.

Columbus and the Central Ohio area abound with outstanding Metro and State Parks. All feature nature centers, winding paths through fields, hills, farms and forests. Beautiful landscapes, dazzling colors, birds and animals are yours to discover for the walking.

Walking gives us a chance to stop, look, smell, touch and listen. Tom Paxton’s terrific song, “The Things I Notice Now” is a great title for walking. What do we notice?

The sudden appearance of a doe and her fawn (we must be very quiet and still so we don’t frighten our deer friends)…

The black, white and red woodpecker hammering for a snack in a nearby tree…

I like to give my classes in Creative Writing the assignment to write about something ordinary. When the students return, they are unanimous in their observations: “There is no such thing as ‘ordinary!’ ” The simplest things we so often overlook are fascinating and wondrous. We must help our children keep the wonder.

—MIMI BRODSKY CHENFELD, ARTS EDUCATOR

Abbey, Amanda and Charlotte Janes

ie and Vincent, Soph g an W el Rach

Elizabeth and Trey Theobald

columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

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on the go: PRODUCT PIX

A gift for the

MOSAIC MAGIC

GARDENER

You’ll have everything you need to garden indoors when the weather outside is still frightful. Kikkerland’s “Idyllic Table Garden” can be found for $20 at the Franklin Park Conservatory’s Botanica gift shop. The kit includes a tray, two decorative pots, bricks, gravel, grass seeds and soil.

Keep your kids’ hands — and minds — busy with Sticky Mosaics by The Orb Factory.

These mosaic-by-numbers kits include everything they need to create pictures, jewelry or boxes for all of their little treasures (prices range from $16 to $20).

Available at Larson’s Toys and Games.

1777 E. Broad St., East Side, 614-645-5927; fpconservatory.org

1617 W. Lane Ave., Upper Arlington, 614-486-7701; larsontoys.com

BABY WARHOL

Forget bunnies, duckies and bears. How about engaging your baby’s imagination with contemporary artists like Murakami, Hirst and Hume? “Art for Baby,” available for $20 at the Wexner Center Store, is an oversized board book with black-and-white images that will mesmerize babies. The three friezes tucked into the back of the book are perfect for mounting on the nursery or play room walls.

1871 N. High St., Campus, 614-292-1807; wexarts.org

ECO-DOUGH EGG-BABIES DOG TOYS

These plush, durable toys for your canine come in fun animal shapes that also contain their very own plush, squeaky-egg babies.

Not only fun, they are also educational: Your pet has to figure out how to get the three eggs out of the elasticized belly. Once he does, he’ll be rewarded with a squeaky toy that fits dogs’ mouths of all sizes and shapes. The animals also come with two replacement eggs. The Animal Rescue Site’s store sells them for $15.

Order online at theanimalrescuesite.com

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

Who knew you could put beets, spinach and sweet potatoes on the table and have your kids begging to dig in? Eco-dough is like Play-Doh colored with dyes from fruits and vegetables. Each batch, available for $20 from the Uncommon Goods website, is handmade in Maine. Recommended for ages 2 and up.

Order online at uncommongoods.com

It’s a Pirate’s Bath for Me Ships Ahoy! Here’s to a mighty adventure on the high seas … or the bathtub. Cover up that bare sailor booty with the Pirate Hooded Towel ($34) from Wrybaby.com.

Made with 100 percent cotton terry, it’s sure to keep yer little scallywag from shiverin’ his timbers. Just keep the swashbuckling to a minimum.

Order online at wrybaby.com

CONTRIBUTORS: DEBBIE ANGELOS, KRISTEN MAETZOLD, MARGUERITE MARSH

on the go: COLUMBUS PARENT PROFILE

Chris Spielman AGE: 45 JOB: sports analyst NEIGHBORHOOD: Upper Arlington KIDS: Madison, 16; Noah, 14; Macy, 10, and Audrey, 8

What’s the most played song on your iPod right now?

“Bring the Rain” by MercyMe

If you had to be on a reality-TV show, which one would it be?

Actually I was on one and we might do it again. It’s still in the works. It was called “Summer House” and ran on the ESPNU network in 2006. But if I had put myself on one, I’d probably do “Survivor,” because I’d like the challenge of testing my limits. I wouldn’t do “Amazing Race,” because I hate to travel. My kids would probably put me on “Dancing with the Stars” just so they could laugh.

Favorite thing to do for family fun in Central Ohio: It only happens once a year, but going out to Timbuk Farms in Granville to cut down our Christmas tree. It’s fun to see the 16-year-old get just as excited as the 8-year-old.

Favorite movie that you went to see with the kids: “The Blind Side.” My brother Rick adopted six African-American kids, so we can kind of relate to that as a family.

Favorite way to spend a day off: I really don’t have time to have a hobby anymore. I used to golf, but I haven’t done that much the last few years. But I really do like working out. I really believe in being balanced, and that means spiritually, mentally and physically.

Best advice you ever received as a parent: It wasn’t that the words were said, but just watching Stef (Chris’ late wife) and the patience she had. I’m still developing that patience, you know, learning that it takes 572 times to say the same thing before it sinks in and becomes habit with your kids.

What’s something your parents did that you thought was nuts when you were a kid but now you understand?

My dad had my brother and me out working with him, accompanying him on landscaping jobs or all kinds of odd jobs when we were young.

At 9 I thought it was ridiculous, but I’m glad now I did it, for the work ethic it gives you and teaching you the value of a dollar.

What’s the funniest thing your children ever did that you really wish they didn’t?

When my son and his friends were about 4 or 5, they called 911 on my mother-in-law because she wouldn’t let them play a certain game. The police came, but it really was pretty funny.

Raising an infant or a teen — which is harder?

An infant, definitely, because you can tell a teen what the standard is and make sure there’s no confusion about the consequences. There’s no setting standards with an infant.

You’re going to lose that battle every time.

Chris and his late wife, Stefanie Spielman, gave the word “champion” yet another meaning before breast cancer took her life in 2009. They started the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research at The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute at Ohio State University, and to date the Fund has raised nearly $8 million for patient care and research.

Each year the Fund also salutes “Stefanie’s Champions” — the people who support, nurture and sustain those with breast cancer. Nominations for this year’s Champions are being accepted until Jan. 15. The winners will be honored at the annual awards luncheon on April 13.

To nominate a Champion, go to: cancer.osu.edu/waystogive/about/specialevents/stefanieschampions, or call 1-800-293-5066 for more information.

columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

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on the go:

anatomy of a DIAPER BAG

BY JANE HAWES

VARU “IT’S IN THE BAG: BABY BLUE EYES” TOTE Who says a diaper bag can’t live on as a stylish tote after the diaper years are done? We love this locally designed and USAmade heavy-duty fabric tote from Varu ($49), with interior pockets and snaps. The company is the brainchild of Kimberly Lawson; if you don’t find her work at local arts fairs, you can order it online at myvaru.com.

MD MOMS BABY SILK GENTLE ALL OVER CLEAN TOWELETTES Created by two pediatrician moms at MD Moms, these alcohol-free hypoallergenic wipes contain all kinds of germ- and moistureresistant ingredients like vitamins E and B5 and a marine-silk complex. A box of 72 wipes, sold at Lilylimes, costs $12.

MAYRON’S GOODS CHAPSTUFF FOR CHEEKS AND LIPS Mothers of a certain age may recognize the name Melanie Mayron from her role on that iconic TV show “thirtysomething.” Now the mother of twins, Mayron has created a line of paraben-free, certified-organic baby skincare products with her chemist dad. A 0.95-ounce container of Chapstuff goes for $15 and is available exclusively in Ohio at Lilylimes.

MAYRON’S GOODS BABY GOODS DIAPER CREAM This diaper cream comes loaded with dye-free oils like aloe, calendula, jojoba, chamomile, lavender and sweet almond.

A 2-ounce tube sells at Lilylimes for $16.

SKIPHOP PRONTO! CHANGING STATION This colorful canvas changing pad ($30) folds up neatly and ingeniously. You can find them at Nordstroms or Lilylimes.

DIAPERDUDE INSULATED BOTTLE HOLDER Any bottle holder that comes in black, grey, brown or camouflage patterns has to be tough. And this one ($14) is also big enough for most bottles and sippy cups. It sells for $14 at Lilylimes or Tickleberry Moon in Granville.

MORE ONLINE! ColumbusParent.com

Products available at: Lilylimes, 7850 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus, 614-448-1222, lilylimes.com; Nordstrom at Easton Town Center, 4000 Worth Ave., Columbus, 614-416-7111; Tickleberry Moon, 123 East Broadway, Granville, 740-920-4314, tickleberrymoon.com; MyVaru.com

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

on the go: WELL-DRESSED

BACK WITH NEW SURPRISES!

What the Well-Dressed

SNOW BUNNY Is Wearing

ON EVELYN: From Once Upon a Child consignment stores — raspberry boots, $5 (original estimated retail price $25), lime-green snow jacket, $12.50 (originally $35), pink snowpants, $7.50 (originally $30). From Global Village Collection — alpaca-fiber knit hat ($16) and mittens ($15) from Andes Gifts Fair Trade.

OUR MODEL:

Evelyn

Age: 3 Favorite color: Purple Favorite book: “Eloise” and books about fairies My favorite thing to do in the snow: Make a snowman, makes pets out of snow, and whack a tree with a stick Favorite food to eat when it’s cold out: Corn I think snow is: white and made of water. It makes me feel happy!

ONE WEEKEND ONLY! WHERE TO BUY: Once Upon a Child multiple locations in Central Ohio onceuponachildcolumbus.com Global Village Collection 37 N. Sandusky St., Delaware

TICKETS START AT $22.50 JANUARY 14 -16 • PALACE THEATRE capa.com

800.745.3000 or CAPA Ticket Office at 39 E. State Street

columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

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on the go: PEOPLE YOU SHOULD MEET

Jo Kirk Mrs.

BY JANE HAWES

Gone are the days when the Pied Piper arrived on foot, playing his magic pipe.

This Pied Piper — aka “Mrs. Jo” Kirk — arrives in a plane she pilots herself, toting an auto-harp and a sack full of soft hammers, drums and scarves.

DANIEL SOHNER PHOTO

Kirk is the creator of WeJoySing, a children’s music-education program well known to many Central Ohio families.

Begun 25 years ago from Kirk’s home then in Cambridge, WeJoySing is the product of a lifetime of learning about learning for the former Northwest Ohio farm girl.

“What our program is all about is based on the learning theories of Jean Piaget and Howard Gardner, who talked about the seven types of intelligence, the music-learning theory of Edwin Gordon, who said that we all have musical aptitude but it’s not inherited, and how it’s nurtured is key,” explained Kirk, who is now based in Grove City.

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

But the biggest piece of underlying theory comes from the work of Zoltan Kodaly, whose revolutionary theories about music education inform much of what Kirk does with the thousands of students who have clapped, tapped and sung their way through her classes.

During recent classes at the Bright Horizons Capital City childcare center in Downtown Columbus, Kirk led infants and their caregivers, and then classes of toddlers and preschoolers, through 30-minute sessions built around five-minute bursts of musical activity.

Directions were given through singsong rhymes and hand gestures, which the children mimicked.

As Kirk distributed drums to a class of 2- and 3-year-olds, she suggested that the teachers gently tap the children’s backs, legs or arms to stimulate drumming.

“The research shows they will respond more accurately to the beat if you tap their body, not the drum,” Kirk said.

Quickly the children, some barely able to stand on their own, were drumming steadily and evenly.

Perhaps more intriguing, though, came when it was time to stop drumming. Ever try to get an enthusiastic 2year-old to stop anything and gotten a tantrum in response? Kirk doesn’t when she ends the session with a singsong “Drums away, drums away, time to put the drums away,” and the children cheerfully stop drumming and trot up to her, to hand over their drums and move on to the next task.

“It can even change parenting styles,” Kirk said of incorporating music into everyday life. She recounted the story of a mother who told her about the night her obstinate toddler wouldn’t relinquish his storybook to go to bed, even marching away from her fiercely. But as soon as the mother began singing the instruction to him, to put his book away and come away to bed, he happily did.

Kirk is herself the mother of two grown children and, for the last three

years, has used her small airplane to maintain a commuter marriage with her husband Ken, who is a Methodist minister stationed at Fort Dix, New Jersey, as a U.S. Army Reserve command chaplain. They meet halfway in Pennsylvania every break they get in their duties.

“I’m 57,” Kirk said proudly, “but I feel like I’m 45.”

Kirk marvels often at the path she has traveled to get to where she is now.

“Never did I think the Lord would have me become a business owner, fly a plane, become a public speaker all over the country,” she said.

But perhaps she should credit the mantra she built her business around: “If you go for the joy, you get everything else.”

For more information, visit Kirk’s website at wejoysing.com

on the go: HOUSEBROKEN

Babysitting Game Plan

BY JOE BLUNDO

I expect to have grandchildren someday, and I’ve already worked out what I will do when I babysit them: Play.

I had a grandmother who liked to play. She played cards and Chinese checkers, and the cool thing was she didn’t let us win. She was competitive, which we learned to love because it made beating her all the sweeter.

I will also follow her lead in displaying ungrandmotherly (or -fatherly, in my case) behavior.

My grandmother looked like the little old Italian woman she was, but she liked to cut loose in unexpected ways.

For example, at picnics she liked to spit watermelon seeds. If the mood struck her, she would just rear back and let fly with a seed for the sheer fun of it, knowing full well that the

kids would immediately imitate her.

Our parents disapproved, but what were they going to do? Yell at Grandma? This taught me that age has its privileges. I look forward to spitting watermelon seeds, grandchildren or not, when I get sufficiently up in years to be excused for eccentric behavior.

I probably won’t buy my grandchildren too many toys. My grandmother didn’t, which meant we had to play with her toys — the cards, the checkers, the jigsaw puzzles — when we went to her house.

I see the wisdom in this now. You don’t want the toy to overshadow the relationship. So you won’t see me

handing a 6-year-old a video game because that would immediately make me less interesting than the toy.

We’re playing what I want to play. The kid will come along, just as I did at that age, because kids want adult attention.

Not that my grandmother eschewed electronic diversions. I developed a lifelong “Jeopardy” habit from being babysat by her. This was back in the days when Art Fleming was the host, and the show was on in the late morning.

My grandmother didn’t watch TV halfheartedly. She got into it, shouting at the set and cheering me on when I came up with a right answer. It was a great way to work up an appetite for lunch.

She was also a lot of fun to watch

professional wrestling with. She’d yell at the villains and wince when the heroes got stomped and just generally demonstrate that TV-watching need not be a passive experience.

I think I will do likewise with my grandchildren.

Was it all fun and games at Grandma’s? Well, no, probably not. She had a lot of grandchildren, and we tried her patience on occasion.

But I remember little of that because the fun parts stand out so prominently all these years later.

So there’s another lesson I think I will apply: Have fun with the grandkids while they’re young. Eventually they’ll grow up, advance well into middle age and be able to remember only certain things about you. Let them be the right things.

Joe Blundo’s column So to Speak appears in the Life section of The Columbus Dispatch.

Visit his blog at Dispatch.com

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17

on the go: TAKE IT FROM TRACY

Babysitting

peace of mind

BY TRACY TOWNSEND

Her name is Jennifer. Well, actually it isn’t, but I’m protecting her identity because, even more valuable than an inside source on a big news story, “Jennifer” is my fabulous babysitter and I don’t want to share her.

Please. Bear with me. Finding a good childcare giver or babysitter can be akin to searching for the proverbial needle in a haystack.

One of the most difficult things I’ve had to do as a mother is entrust the care of my child to someone else. Surely you’ve suffered this kind of angst. I was convinced that no one could care for my precious Ian as well as his parents.

Sure, grandparents, aunts and uncles were fine, but a stranger? In the end, I had to get over my issues, get over myself, and let go.

Ecole Francaise

No sooner had we found childcare and a sitter in Chicago than we moved to Columbus. There were a few kinks in our search to secure childcare for Ian during the day. We were able to work those out and secure a spot in a great preschool program. When it came time to find a babysitter, we also had success, but it was short lived: She graduated high school and went away to college.

Our next search was relatively short, thanks to a terrific intern in my office. She and her friend were working part time at their university. “Jennifer” was desperate to do something else — even babysit. We met her, we met her mom, and they met Ian. I will tell you he was smitten from the start because “Jennifer” didn’t mind his chattiness, inquisitive nature, or playing video games.

Two years later she is like part of the family. In fact, I’ve only half-jokingly offered her temporary residence in our guest room.

There is something to be said for the peace of mind that comes from knowing your child is safe at home when you are not.

It is clear Ian has developed quite a bond with “Jennifer.” When we announce plans that don’t include him, he cannot wait until she arrives. “Jennifer” has even been the first to break the news of trouble at school because Ian views her as someone he can count on, and we do too.

My confirmation of how well this partnership is working are the times — and there are many — when we’ve come through the door expecting a hug or even a smile from our boy whom we’ve missed, only to be met with a disappointed, “You’re back already?”

Sure, it’s a kick in the teeth, but also a comforting pat on the back to know that when we can’t be there, we have found someone who can.

Tracy Townsend is a news reporter and anchor with 10TV News HD.

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on the go: VITAMIN ME

Closet

case

BY KRISTY ECKERT

I don’t do resolutions. I do, however, do closets.

And I know bunches of you are doing the same (or at least you’re promising you will when you recover from the holidays … in April). So I enlisted the help of local experts and combined it with lessons I’ve learned to offer the ultimate organizing guide.

First, my golden rules. Ask yourself these questions about every item in your closet:

And here’s some closet-cleaning advice from local fashionistas:

DOES IT FIT TODAY?

1. Make it fun. Invite a friend over, take everything out, paint

If it doesn’t fit right now — not last summer or five pounds from now — take it out. Either give it away or, if you’re sure it will fit soon, put it in “purgatory.”

Purgatory can be a spare closet, plastic bin or other such storage space. At year’s end, anything still unworn and in purgatory goes to charity heaven.

DOES IT MAKE ME FEEL FABULOUS? If you don’t love it, don’t even give yourself the option of wearing it. It’s better to have a closet with five things you adore than 50 you just kind of like.

Here’s an easy way to think about it: If you asked your husband or child to grab you an outfit from your closet and you had to wear it in public, are you confident you would look good? You should be.

Kristy Eckert is the editor of Capital Style, a bimonthly women’s magazine published by The Dispatch Printing Company.

To sign up for her weekly e-newsletter, visit Capital-Style.com

the closet, donate the unflattering and enjoy the process. (Jill Richey, owner of le Flair Boutique)

2. If you haven’t worn it in a year, donate it. (Christina Getachew, owner of Substance for Fashion Conscious People)

3. Purge anything with pills, holes or faded color. (Allison Jayjack, owner of Ladybird)

4. Never get rid of anything that is flattering and age appropriate. (Connie Leal Ballenger, owner of Leal)

5. It’s OK to keep items with sentimental value even if you don’t wear them. Just store them. (Jin Fillinger, owner of jinny)

6. Use space wisely. Store seasonal items in garment bags beneath your bed. (Maren Roth, owner of Rowe)

7. Assign everything real estate — sweaters, denim, casual tops and so on. (Fillinger)

Whatever items you would cringe at in this sce-

8. Color coordinate. (Jayjack)

nario, ditch.

9. Always hang up and put away your clothing at the end of the day to keep things neat. (Roth)

WOULD I PURCHASE IT TODAY? Yes, this is harsh, but it narrows the field in a hurry.

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19

on the go: NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT

Hilliard

BY MELISSA KOSSLER DUTTON • PHOTOS BY DANIEL SOHNER

For Hilliard residents and business owners, the community’s small-town feel combined with its big-city offerings make it an ideal place to live, work and play.

“It seems to be growing and growing and growing,” said Jordan Smith, who makes donuts the old-fashioned way at his shop, the Little Donut Factory. “Yet, there’s still that feeling of ‘I know you and you know me.’ ” Visitors to the bustling suburb, which was founded as Hilliard Station in 1853, will find a variety of family activities, interesting shops and tasty dining options. There also are a number of opportunities to explore the city’s rich history.

“There are things for all different interests,” said Christy Clark of Destination Hilliard, the city’s tourism bureau. “It’s a small-town community but we have things you can come and see and do.”

The free tour of the Anthony Thomas Chocolates factory, which can produce 35,000 to 50,000 pieces of candy a day, is a fun stop for the whole family. Visitors can watch the creamy confection be poured into molds, placed in colorful wrappers and packaged for delivery to stores.

They also will learn how the family-run company gets such a smooth top on its trademark buckeyes. The factory makes about 3 million of the chocolate-and-peanut-butter treats annually. The tour ends on a sweet note with every participant receiving a buckeye.

(Tour guides ask visitors about peanut allergies and will provide nut-free treats for those who need them.)

In warmer weather, children will definitely enjoy the Hilliard Family Aquatic Center, the city’s award-winning water park with five pools, a lazy river and two 30-foot slides.

More outdoor fun can be had at Homestead Park, a 44acre retreat. The park offers a stocked pond, event shelters and great play spaces for the kids, including a water-play area and playground equipment suited to children with developmental issues.

Older children might appreciate a visit to First Responders Park, which was built to honor the emergency personnel who responded to the Sept. 11, 2001, tragedy. The names of the nearly 2,800 Americans who were killed as a result of the terrorist attacks are etched into granite walls.

Pieces of twisted metal from the wreckage of the World Trade Center and its subway station are displayed at the park, which was dedicated last year.

The park is located near the city’s Historic Village, an enclave of historic buildings that offer a glimpse of what life was like in the city in the mid 1800s. Check their website for days and times that the village, which includes a church, school and train depot, is open.

For a bit of modern history, visit the Early Television Museum. The museum has more than 200 TVs on display.

20

| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

Homestead Park

Little Darlings Theater fans should check out the family-friendly offerings of the Bread and Circus Theatre Company.

Movie buffs will enjoy a trip to the Movie Tavern, which serves meals with movies. Kids will love the Tavern’s Saturday morning Flapjacks and a Flick special.

Moms on the prowl for deals should check out Little Darlings, Kloset Kraze and New Uses General Store.

The three second-hand stores, located in the same strip

mall, are a thrifter’s delight. And fuel up for the bargain hunt with a flavorful cup of java from the city’s newest coffee shop, Kitamu Coffee.

The warm and welcoming shop offers a nice array of hot drinks.

No trip to Hilliard is complete without a visit to the Starliner Diner, where the menu is as interesting as the décor. The diner features funky wall clocks, space-themed murals and fabulous Cuban and Mexican-inspired meals.

The restaurant is one of the best parts about living in Hilliard, said resident Nancy Colvin.

“The sweet-potato-and-corn tamales are just to die for,” added the mother of two. She also appreciates Hilliard’s big-city amenities and small-town feel.

“From the July 4th parade to hanging out at the Dairy Queen, there is just a warm, welcoming atmosphere throughout the community,” Colvin said.

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LITTLE DARLINGS

MAIN ST.

HILLIARD MUNICIPAL PARK

MOVIE TAVERN

SC IOT

OUTSIDE THE LINES

KLOSET KRAZE

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RD

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LITTLE DONUT FACTORY

WALCUTT

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MARKET AT MILL RUN SHOPPING CENTER

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NEW USES GENERAL STORE KITAMU COFFEE

BREAD AND CIRCUS THEATRE COMPANY

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ANTHONY THOMAS CHOCOLATES 1777 Arlingate Lane 614-274-8405 anthony-thomas.com LITTLE DARLINGS 3666 Main St. 614-529-8889 littledarlingshilliard.com HOMESTEAD PARK 4675 Cosgray Road 614-652-3922 wtwp.com/parks HILLIARD FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER 3850 Veterans Memorial Dr. 614-876-4296 www.hilliardohio.gov/play STARLINER DINER 5240 Cemetery Rd. 614-529-1198 starlinerdiner.com

LITTLE DONUT FACTORY 4543 Scioto Darby Rd. 614-876-9869 FIRST RESPONDERS PARK 4020 Main St. NEW USES GENERAL STORE 3658 Main St. 614-876-6060 newuses.com KLOSET KRAZE 3662 Main St. 614-850-9004 klosetkraze.net DAIRY QUEEN 3900 Main St. 614-876-4102 dairyqueen.com HISTORIC VILLAGE 4100 Columbia St. franklincountyohiohistory.org

KITAMU COFFEE 3221 Hilliard Rome Rd. 614-771-1292 kitamucoffee.com EARLY TELEVISION MUSEUM 5396 Franklin St. 614-771-0510 earlytelevision.org BREAD AND CIRCUS THEATRE COMPANY Harmony Artistic Center, 3979 Parkway Ln. 614-470-4895 bctco.org MOVIE TAVERN 3773 Ridge Mill Dr. 614-777-1010 movietavern.com OUTSIDE THE LINES 5236 Cemetery Rd. 614-527-7752 outsidethelines creativestudio.com

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21

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

Sheri Dilley always wanted to own her own business and when the studio where she went to paint closed, she decided to go for it.

Dilley, a former recruiting manager, opened Outside the Lines Creative Studio — a paintyour-own-pottery studio — in June 2009. And she hasn’t looked back.

Customers can paint everything from coffee mugs to dog dishes to picture frames. The studio also offers kids’ camps, adult workshops and pottery classes.

“It takes a lot of courage, support, friends, volunteers,” Dilley said of opening a business.

“It also takes a lot of drive and tenacity because there are a lot of ups and downs.”

Dilley loves the opportunity to help people tap into their creative side and being the boss isn’t bad either, she said: “I get all the credit and all the blame.”

What do you enjoy about watching children in the studio?

How their faces light up when they see the piece that they created. Also, the fact they just want to do what they think of.

They don’t think of the reasons why it may not work. I love that.

What’s the biggest worry that customers have?

It’s not going to turn out. I hear that every day. I love the shock and awe they have when they pick it up and see how good it looks.

How often do you create pottery?

Not as much as I would like — a couple times a month. I just finished a Christmas plate for

my grandson. As a business owner you’re required to do so many other things. I’ve started to throw on a pottery wheel, which I love.

Why do you offer a project every month for adults and kids?

Everybody wants an outlet to learn something new. This is great way to do it, especially if you like to paint. We try to teach new things every month. It’s very hands-on.

What draws people to the studio — do we have a drive to be creative?

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23

need to know: PEDIATRIC HEALTHSOURCE Watch Pediatric HealthSource at 5 p.m.

Thursdays on 10TV News HD.

EXPERTS FROM NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL ANSWER COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT HEALTH AND SAFETY My 8-year-old son enjoys sledding but I’m worried about the dangers and how to protect him. For instance, should he be wearing a helmet?

Lara McKenzie, PhD., is a researcher in the Center for Injury Research and Policy at The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.

Sledding is a classic recreational winter pastime. It’s exciting, easy and inexpensive. But sledding injuries also send more than 20,000 children and adolescents to emergency departments each year.

A study conducted by the Center for Injury Research and Policy of The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital found the most common injuries were fractures, followed by cuts and bruises. The head was the most commonly injured body part and traumatic brain injuries constituted 9 percent of cases. To reduce the risk of head injuries, children should always wear a helmet.

Sledders should keep their arms and legs within the sled at all times and always sit face-forward, feet-first. Go down the hill one at a time with only one person per sled (except for adults with young children).

Be sure to select a hill that is not too steep and has a long flat area at the bottom to safely glide to a stop. Avoid hills near streets, parking lots, ponds, trees, fences or other hazards. Finally, icy hills make for hard landings if sledders do fall, so be sure to pick snowy hills.

What is seasonal affective disorder? I’m starting to suspect that my 12-year-old might have it, but I’m not sure if it’s that or something else that’s getting her down this winter.

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) refers to a type of depression that tends to recur at the same time each year, usually during the winter months and as the days get shorter.

The most important question here is whether your daughter is experiencing an episode of depressed mood and suffering from a depressive disorder. The symptoms of SAD can range from mild to severe and may include irritability, feeling sad, decreased enjoyment, fatigue or low energy, changes in appetite or weight, poor concentration, sleep problems, and thoughts of death or suicide.

Depressive disorders, whether seasonal or otherwise, are quite common in children and adolescents. Approximately one in five adolescents experiences a major depressive episode by the time they are 18. Many who suffer from depression any time of year may also find that their mood deteriorates in the winter months.

Evaluation by a primary care physician makes the most sense, but evaluation by a mental health professional may also be beneficial.

The good news is there are effective treatments available for children and adolescents. Specific types of psychotherapy have proven to be effective, as have certain antidepressant medications.

Dr. John V. Campo is Medical Director of Behavioral Health Services and Chief of the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.

Vision Performance is a 3-Step Process

To learn more about Nationwide Children’s Hospital, visit www.NationwideChildrens.org

I’m confused about the differences between an urgent care and the emergency department. When should I take my child to an urgent care and what services are provided there?

Urgent care locations offer treatment for illnesses and injuries that need immediate attention but are not serious enough to warrant a trip to the emergency department. Treatment for the following is provided: minor cuts and burns, possible broken bones/simple fractures (facility will perform X-rays and initial treatment), sprains, strains, vomiting, diarrhea, asthma (mild or moderate wheezing), rashes, mild allergic reactions and fever.

Go to the emergency department if your child’s problem is a true emergency, or for treatment of major trauma/injuries, injuries involving a motor vehicle, a fall from a height, serious head injury with loss of consciousness, changes in normal behavior, or vomiting, serious or large burns, obvious broken bone in the leg or arm, severe difficulty breathing, fever in infants 8 weeks of age or less, severe pain and seizures.

In a serious or life-threatening medical emergency, always call 911. In situations where calling 911 isn’t necessary, call your family doctor first to determine the best treatment option.

TIP OF THE MONTH

Winter Fun & Safety The excitement of the holidays is over. Now what? For many, it’s back to school, back to work and into hibernation mode. But with so many winter sports to choose from, staying fit and healthy this winter is fun and easy! Whatever your family decides, follow these tips to stay safe: • Dress in warm layers. Layers are great insulators and easy to remove.

• Wear a hat and gloves or mittens.

• Wear sunscreen. Snow reflects UV rays which can quickly give you sunburn.

• Wear a helmet and goggles when sledding, skiing, snowboarding or other similar-risk sports.

Dr. Terry P. Barber Sr. is the Medical Director of off-site Urgent Care Centers and an attending physician at the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Westerville Close To Home.

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25

need to know: THE GO-TO GUIDE

Getting Your Kids’ Space

ORGANIZED

BY JANE HAWES

Ever met a busy, happy, creative kid who’s also a neat freak? Neither have we. A little mess — OK, a lot of mess — is just part of the territory when it comes to raising children.

But at the end of the day, there are some tricks to the trade if you want to keep the creative sprawl of crayons, toys and costumes from taking over your home. Plus you can use these tips to get your kids involved with getting organized.

To create this month’s Go-To Guide, Columbus Parent talked to Kelly Yost, a professional home organizer. And we talked to Terri Durner, a professional home stager (you know, one of those people who make your house look perfect when you’re trying to sell it because, let’s face it, that is just about the only time when it will look perfect).

Hopefully some of their advice will help you keep the clutter contained, but the creativity flowing!

DANIEL SOHNER PHOTOS

STEP

1.

PURGE

The first step in getting organized is to reduce or purge what you don’t need.

We grownups know how to do this with our own stuff (and if you don’t, just check out Kristy Eckert’s “Vitamin Me” column in this issue), but it’s very, very hard for most children to throw out or give away clothes and toys they don’t need any more.

“Kids are different when it comes to letting go of things,” said Yost, pictured here with her children. “My daughter can’t, but my son can.”

HOW TO PURGE: • If a child is old enough, you might be able to involve them in selecting items that will go to charitable organizations. As long as they understand that the items will be used by someone who really needs them, it can help reduce anxiety about the item disappearing forever.

• If a child is likely to not let go, many parents purge on the sly: “I do it when she’s at school,” said Yost without apology. “She doesn’t notice then.”

• If the parent is the one who needs the push, said Durner, “Go room by room, then it’s not so overwhelming. If you must, just start with one drawer.”

WHEN TO PURGE: • Right before or after an event when there will be an influx of new belongings, like at Christmas, Hanukkah or a birthday.

• Right before summer holidays or after school has resumed.

• When a dedicated space begins to overflow (a closet, drawer, toy bin, or craft area).

WHEN TO NOT PURGE: It can be emotionally hard to throw memorabilia like artwork and school papers away even though, Yost said, “you know you can’t keep everything.” So she puts everything for each child in their own keepsake bin, and then sorts it twice a year when it’s easier to recognize what’s truly save-worthy.

26

| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

STEP

2.

CATEGORIZE

If you’re trying to empower your kids to be part of the organizing process, you have to create a system they can handle. And that means one thing — keep it simple: Put “like” things together: And keep your definition of “like” broad. For example, have a bin for “things with wheels” as opposed to one bin each for toy trucks, cars, motorcycles and train cars. The same goes for clothes: Set up one category per dresser drawer.

Use age-appropriate labels: Use picture labels for younger children and written labels for those old enough to read. Labels are especially helpful during play dates when a visitor doesn’t know where things go at clean-up time.

STEP

3.

TOGETHER at the Y

CONTAIN

You could easily spend a fortune on beautiful, stylish containers, but you don’t have to.

Said Durner: “I love to use those canvas baskets, all matching and they just look great. I get them at Walmart. I do a lot of shopping there.”

What you do need is a strategy for the containers you get: Measure the space you have for storage before you buy containers. Too many people buy containers, said Yost, based on the look, and not on the actual dimensions of the space they have to use.

Open-back shelves, set away from the wall, are better because they accommodate a wider range of container sizes.

Keep containers low to the ground and easily accessible.

Use see-through bins: During the day, • Don't clean first, especially if you're going to you should also keep lids off. be purging.

Use zip-locked baggies: These are • Teach your children how to clean by doing it great for smaller items, especially when with them at first. Don't just say “Go clean there are lots of them (game pieces, your room.” Take them and show them what dress-up accessories, doll clothes) your expectation is, advised Yost.

Use bare walls: These make great display spaces for artwork. All you need is a Sources: clothesline strung across a wall with paper clips or clothes pins.

Kelly Yost, owner of b.organized,

STEP

4.

LEARN GROW THRIVE FAMILY TIME YMCA of Central Ohio

CLEAN

Use hooks on the wall, not hangers in a closet: Save the hangers for dressy clothes that you retrieve from the closet.

614-570-4993, borganized.org; Terri Durner, professional home stager, 614-989-9247.

Join the Y today.

ymcacolumbus.org columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

27

need to know: AGE APPROPRIATE: CHILDCARE

Baby Steps

0YE-A1RS

BY MELISSA KOSSLER DUTTON

Choosing the Right Caregiver for Your Infant CARE QUESTIONS

What to ask an infant-care provider, and answers to look for:

Kristen Castle spent a lot of time researching childcare options because she wanted to make her transition back to work after the birth of her Chloe daughter as smooth as possible. The Grandview resident knew if she had confidence in the childcare provider, it would make it easier to leave her 9-week-old with someone else.

How many babies are cared for in one room?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a 3:1 child-to-staff for children from birth to 24 months.

How many babies are cared for in one room?

The AAP recommends the group size not exceed six children for children from birth to 24 months.

Kristen and Chloe Castle read together at the YMCA Hilltop Educare Center

“You want the ultimate best for your child,” Castle said. “It was harder on me to leave her” than it was for her to adjust to daycare.

Most parents find choosing daycare for their children an emotional experience, said Juanita Webb of Action for Children. Some parents will sob for several weeks when dropping off their baby at daycare, Webb said.

Choosing a care provider that meets all of your needs can make the process less difficult, said Mary Neal Jones, a senior program and policy analyst at Nemours Health &

28

Prevention Services in Newark, Delaware.

Parents need to first consider what they want in a provider. Some childcare options cater to specific religions, accommodate special needs or focus on diversity, Jones said.

“Parents should think about what’s important to them,” she said. “Everybody is going to answer those questions differently.”

While visiting a center, look for these details: * If caregivers are holding babies and letting them play on the

| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

floor or if the infants are being kept in seats or high chairs; * If caregivers are playing with or talking and reading to children; * If the care provider follows the babies lead for naps, feeding and diapering, or if the child will be put on the same schedule as other children in the center; * If the child will have a primary caregiver, or if the multiple caregivers share the workload.

It’s also important to see if the center seems clean, safe and wellorganized, Webb said.

During a visit, she always closes

DANIEL SOHNER PHOTO

her eyes and puts her other senses to work.

“I listen to the kinds of noises there are,” she said. “I breathe in to see what the smells are. I lift my feet of ground to see if the floor is sticky.”

The willingness of the staff at YMCA Hilltop Educare Center to answer Castle’s many questions ultimately helped her and her husband Jeff decide to place their daughter there.

“We asked all kinds of questions,” the Grandview resident said. “They were open and honest.”

How much “tummy time” will my child have?

Doctors generally recommend that babies have two to three sessions of tummy time per day, for about 10 minutes at a time.

What is the rate of employee turnover?

High turnover of employees can be a signal of other problems.

need to know: AGE-APPROPRIATE: CHILDCARE

BOARD CERTIFIED IN

PEDIATRIC DENTRISTRY

Time for Preschool?

Select the One That’s Right for Your Child

3-5

New Location Opening Soon at 395 West Street, Westerville

BY ELIZABETH SEUFER When Tara Long and her family moved to central Ohio last August, she needed to find a new preschool for her 4-yearold daughter, Taylor. Fast.

She quizzed neighbors. She searched online to locate preschools within 20 miles.

She made phone calls and paid visits.

Long chose David Lutheran Christian Preschool in Canal Winchester. It’s accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

“I was very impressed,” said Long, of Lithopolis. “To me, a preschool should be somewhere that sparks a child’s interest and lets them learn and explore. I feel like David Lutheran does.”

Selecting a good preschool for your child is important to ensure school readiness, said Juanita Webb, an early learning specialist for Action for Children. The nonprofit organization is a local childcare resource and referral agency.

School readiness is about more than mastering skills like writing your name and knowing your colors, Webb said. It’s also about being socially and emotionally ready.

When it comes to a preschool’s ratio of students to teachers, lower is typically better. However, total class size is also important. Webb said having one teacher for every eight students is fabulous, but a class of 24 children with three adults might be a lot.

When you visit a preschool, Webb said, you should hear many conversations taking place. “Those conversations and the quality of those conversations are very important,” she said.

In Ohio, preschool programs are licensed by either the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services or the Ohio Department of Education, according to Webb.

Preschools also may be accredited by NAEYC as well as rated through Step Up To Quality, Ohio’s voluntary quality rating system. Webb called NAEYC accreditation “the gold standard.”

“It is the highest standard that any preschool or childcare center can aspire to,” she said. “It is proven that those centers generally are the highest quality.”

David Lutheran Christian Preschool director Julie Benedict has a cabinet in her office filled with NAEYC documents.

She said NAEYC-accredited preschools are held to a much higher standard than the state’s requirements in areas such as teacher education, student-to-teacher ratios and regular staff training.

Long’s daughter is thriving at her new preschool.

“She loves it,” Long said. “I know that as long as she has a good classroom, a good environment, a good teacher, she will absolutely be successful in the years following in her education.”

24 Hour Emergency Care

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Are you expecting?

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We want your opinions!

Earn extra cash Strictly market research, no sales or gimmicks Get paid for your opinions!

Tara and Taylor Long

DANIEL SOHNER PHOTO

Monday-Friday 9:00 am-9:00 pm

Tips for picking a preschool from Action for Children’s Juanita Webb:

Saturday 10:00 am-3:00 pm

• Visit as many preschools as you can.

• Trust your instincts. Consider how you feel about the school and the director. Keep in mind that the director sets the tone for what happens there.

• Inquire about the teachers’ educational backgrounds and student-to-teacher ratios.

• Examine the student artwork. Does it look like a 3-year-old or a teacher made it? The process is more important than the end result.

• Listen to the conversations. They should be childfocused rather than teacher-driven.

Sunday 4:00 pm-9:00 pm

Call us at

1-800-242-4118 and ask for Paula

7634 Crosswoods Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43235 Join our database at

www.delve.com

columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

29

need to know: CHILDCARE

To SACC or to Latch?

The After School Dilemma

BY TRUDA SHINKER

Januar y 6 –16, 2011 Alice

in Wo n

JOIN THE FUN!

derland ch

ged! coura n e e r a s aracter costume

Tickets

Park Street Theatre

$

9-18

512 Park St Columbus Ohio

Choosing an after-school care option for your tween can be confusing. Some kids need the structure that a School-Aged Childcare (SACC) program offers, while others are ready to stay at home alone for a short time. And then there’s the question of what you as a parent are comfortable with. So how do you know which alternative is best for your family?

According to Kirk Bloir, program director of Family and Consumer Sciences at the Ohio State University Extension, parents can start the decision-making process by assessing their child in three areas:

• Emotionally: in what kind of environment is your child most at ease? Is your child comfortable with the idea of being alone for an hour or so or does he or she prefer social interaction?

• Physically: is your child

3 Ways to Purchase Tickets: Call CCT at 614-224-6672 Call CAPA at 614-469-0939 Visit TicketMaster.com

Based on the book by Lewis Carroll. Adapted

by William Goldsmith.

Recommended for everyone age 4 and older–50 minutes.

CCT Academy offers theatre classes for ages 3-16. For more information visit our website.

www.ColsChildrensTheatre.org 30

| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

capable of being reasonably self-sufficient? Can your child lock and unlock the door, use the phone, and fix a snack?

• Intellectually: can your child follow directions and rules without supervision or does he or she work better in a structured environment?

“Each child and situation is different,” says Bloir. “The whole family has to be comfortable with the decision.”

Making the choice can seem overwhelming, but it can be done.

Children taking part in the SACC program held by the Y Club at an Olentangy district school.

9-12 YEARS

DANIEL SOHNER PHOTO

We asked two Central Ohio families about their experiences, but to protect their children’s safety, they are not identified by name or location.

GOING WITH LATCHKEY: GOING WITH THE The R family allows 12-year-old Joe to go SACC PROGRAM: home by himself after school.

“He was getting bored at his after-school program and was having trouble getting his homework done,” explained mom Mary. About a year ago, the family started allowing Joe to come home by himself two days a week.

“He was a little nervous at first,” said Mary.

“But by the end of the year, he wanted to do it every day.”

The family established rules for Joseph and set up a routine. He also has a cell phone to check in with his mom and knows the neighbors can help in an emergency.

“Staying on his own has been great for Joe,” said Mary. “It’s taught him time management and he really enjoys it.”

The M family is in no hurry to leave their school’s SACC program. Nine-year-olds Elizabeth and Katherine enjoy interacting with their friends, while dad Kirk appreciates the physical activity and homework assistance.

“We’ve considered letting them stay at home alone, but we’re not there yet,” said Kirk. “The girls would probably be responsible enough, but we feel they benefit from the extra structure they get (at SACC).”

The girls have been attending their school’s SACC since they were in first grade.

“They’ve made a lot of friends in the program and look forward to going each day,” added Kirk.

For links to more SACC and latchkey resources, visit ColumbusParent.com

Childcare Centers DIRECTORY Action for Children’s Guide to 196 Accredited Childcare Centers in Central Ohio

PLUS! • Reading state inspection sheets • At-Home providers

columbusparent.com | Childcare Directory | January 2011 |

1

hot topic: CHILDCARE

Reading Your Rights How to Use a State Inspection Sheet

BY GEOFF DUTTON

When her 3-year-old son’s childcare center suddenly shut down, Alissa Jackson felt panicky and overwhelmed.

Jackson had found the center with little effort, thanks to recommendations from friends and a bit of luck. This time she would have to do it the hard way, starting from scratch without anybody pointing the way.

Alissa Jackson and son Will

2

| January 2011 | Childcare Directory | columbusparent.com

DANIEL SOHNER PHOTOS

Soon, her uneasiness gave way to a sense of mission. With a little digging, she gained confidence. A lot of good information was readily available, including state inspection reports that provided a paper trail for her to follow.

“I’m definitely someone who searches a lot before I do anything,” said Jackson, who lives in Galena. “Definitely, when it comes to my kids, I go above and beyond.”

The stakes are enormous — emotionally for parents, developmentally for children and financially for the entire family. Children in full-time child care from infancy until kindergarten will spend as many hours in child care as they will in school, according to Action for Children, a Columbus nonprofit. And the cost will rival four years of college tuition.

Jackson had to act fast when her son’s center closed in July, but she was determined to be thorough. She wasn’t looking to find just a place to drop off her son — she wanted to find the right place, where he would be safe, loved and nurtured.

In addition to Will, 3, she also was pregnant at the time with her son, Kellan. He, too, would need child care when she returned to her job as a social worker at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.

She was pleasantly surprised to find a trove of information literally at her fingertips. Ohio licenses childcare centers and preschools with more than six children. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services inspects them twice a year. The reports, as well as inspections of complaints, are available online. Jackson said she found the website informative and easy to use.

Users can check a specific center’s inspection reports or sift, sort and browse centers more broadly based on location, inspection performance and other criteria. Action for Children notes that some violations are more significant than others.

Violations of particular concern include being understaffed (referred to as “staff/child ratios” and “grouping” in inspection reports), failing to run criminal background checks on employees (“statement of non-conviction”) and not prominently posting the latest state inspection at the childcare center.

At it begins with the children... from 6 weeks to 6th grade

•

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services posts inspection reports online at gis1.odjfs.state.oh.us/childcare.

The JCC provides families with quality care at affordable prices through the JCC’s three Early Childhood sites, Kinder-Club, and Kaleidoscope Programs.

•

On that page, select “Search for Child Care” and enter criteria in order to generate a list of providers.

A curriculum compiled from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Accreditation Criteria and the Early Learning Content standards from the Ohio Department of Education.

•

At the JCC our goal is to meet the needs of the children by providing a child-centered environment full of positive words and actions, encourage each child to make choices, ask questions, grow in self-confidence and self-control, develop respect for self and others, and feel a joy and curiosity for learning.

•

Kaleidoscope is a State of Ohio licensed, recreational based, Jewish after school program that gives kids the opportunity to develop new interests and friendships in a secure and supportive environment during a variety of daily activities including sports, art, swimming, science, movies, games and more.

•

An Ethical Start is a values based curriculum that teaches Jewish values and ethics from Pirkei Avot, one of the books of the Talmud. This innovative and progressive program is produced and developed by the JCC Association.

Select a provider: On their page, you’ll see a “To See Current Inspections, Click Here” link. This will take you to a page with all available inspection reports.

Jackson discovered that more help was a phone call away.

Action for Children assists parents in their search for free.

“Scary,” said Nancy Currie, an Action for Children referral specialist, as she scrolled down a computer screen filled with red type. The state highlights more serious citations in red.

With more than 900 licensed centers in Franklin County alone, Action for Children helped Jackson narrow and focus her search.

The state inspection reports provided a starting point. After visiting more than a dozen centers, Jackson reexamined the inspections to validate her impressions.

“I think you get a feel when you walk in a place, right away,” Jackson said.

Researching child care centers provides a foundation for the final and ultimate test, said Action for Children spokeswoman Sandi Dubin: “Trust your gut instincts.”

SEARCH TIPS When looking for a childcare provider, consider: • Whether you want a home setting, or a childcare center. Providers of both types who care for more than six children, including their own, should be licensed.

• Online inspection reports. They indicate whether a provider meets minimum standards.

• Whether a provider participates in a voluntary three-star rating system called “Step Up to Quality,” or obtains outside professional accreditation.

These programs hold providers to higher standards and are noted on the state’s website.

Select spots are still available.

For more information on any of these programs, please call the JCC at 231-2731. www.columbsjcc.org Meet Our Directors

• Starting your search early. Waiting lists are common, particularly for infant care.

• Affordable centers can be high quality, and

Nikki Henry JCC College Ave., Director nhenry@columbusjcc.org

(614) 559-6290

Nancy Thoman JCC New Albany, Director

Jennifer Wilkinson JCC North, Director

nthoman@columbusjcc.org jwilkinson@columbusjcc.org

(614) 855-4885

(614) 764-2414

expensive ones lackluster. Price is not an indication of quality.

• Visiting multiple providers and talking with the parents of children there. Nothing beats observing providers first hand.

columbusparent.com | Childcare Directory | January 2011 |

3

hot topic: CHILDCARE

At-Home Providers

BY MELISSA KOSSLER DUTTON

How to find a quality family-care center Months before she gave birth to her son Jaxen, Elizabeth Anderson started interviewing childcare providers.

After talking with several providers, the Reynoldsburg hair stylist settled on the Columbus home of Kimberly Doughty for Jaxen, now 13 months old.

“I just loved that he would get more personal contact,” she said, and that he would interact with older children.

Kimberly Doughty, Elizabeth Anderson and son Jaxen DANIEL SOHNER PHOTOS

HOW TO VISIT AND ASSESS AN AT-HOME PROVIDER Once parents have identified qualified providers, they should schedule a visit, Sheridan said.

These are important factors to assess:

4

• Schedule your visit while children are there, suggested Doughty, whose home is NAFCC accredited: “See how she handles herself with the kids. You can tell a lot by body language,” Doughty said.

• Ask to see where the child would eat, sleep and play.

• Look at the toys, making sure they are developmentally appropriate and there’s enough of them: “If there are not enough toys, it could lead to discipline problems,” Sheridan said.

• Ask the provider about how the child’s day will be scheduled: “Children in general like order in their lives,” Sheridan said. “If they know what to expect,” they tend to do better.

| January 2011 | Childcare Directory | columbusparent.com

• Ask the provider about a curriculum for the children.

Providers should work with children to help them meet developmental milestones: “Standards have changed,” Doughty said, adding that homecare providers need to do more than sit kids in front of the television.

• Ask how the provider communicates with parents about their child’s day.

• Ask about the provider’s visitation policy. Experts recommend all care providers have an open-door policy that allows you to visit your child any time.

• Ask how many children a home provider is caring for.

In Ohio, home providers can only watch six children at a time, but no more than three of the children can be younger than 2 years old.

WHAT MAKES FOR A QUALIFIED PROVIDER When choosing a homecare setting, parents need to be particularly diligent because the state only licenses homecare settings if the provider accepts more than six children — meaning most are exempt from state licensing requirements, said Becky Sheridan of Action for Children, a free childcare resource and referral agency.

But at-home or homecare providers, also called “family-care centers,” may have gone through other certification processes. Counties, for example, must certify providers who receive public funds as payment. This certification process includes background checks, home and fire inspections, and a statement from a physician or nurse verifying the applicant is able to provide child care. Certified providers also receive ongoing training.

Family-care centers that do not receive public funds aren’t required to be certified.

They can, however, choose to register with Action for Children, which means they have met minimum health and safety standards, and the providers have undergone background checks.

Providers also can be accredited through the nonprofit National Association for Family Child Care, which evaluates homecare centers.

NURTURING THE POTENTIAL OF EVERY CHILD CHILD CARE YMCA of Central Ohio GET IT IN WRITING These are important details you need to see proof of when visiting and evaluating an at-home provider: • The written agreement provided to parents • Names of references and their contact information • Diplomas or certificates from accredited schools for degrees and continuing-education classes.

• Insurance policies that covers the provider’s business • Background check results for the provider and any members of the provider’s family who will come in contact with your child.

• A back-up plan if the provider is unable to watch the children • Detailed emergency plans

In homes licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, there must be an additional caregiver if there are more than six children or more than three children under the age of 2.

If the provider has children of her or his own under age 6, they must be counted in the totals. “Parents really need to count heads when they go into a home,” Sheridan said.

And if you observe a provider violating these standards, report him or her to the state by calling 866-635-3748.

With over 60 State-licensed child care locations in Central Ohio, the YMCA is the area’s largest provider of child care.

Call your local YMCA branch for availability.

Infant-Preschool-Child Care 6 WEEKS-6 YEARS YMCA Early Learning Center 614-342-5836 YMCA St. Ann’s Educare Center 614-898-8687 YMCA Hilltop Early Learning Center 614-752-8877

1/2 Day Preschool 3-6 YEARS

Full Day Preschool 3-6 YEARS

School-Aged Before & After Care 6–12 YEARS

Jerry L Garver YMCA 614-834-9622 Hilltop YMCA 614-276-8224 North YMCA 614-885-4252 Pickaway County Family YMCA 740-477-1661

ymcacolumbus.org/childcare

columbusparent.com | Childcare Directory | January 2011 |

5

hot topic:

BRIGHT MINDS START HERE. Columbus Early Learning Centers has offered quality early childhood education for more than 50 years. We believe that each child is special!

Our goal is to provide a nurturing and loving environment that helps children develop the cognitive, physical, social and emotional skills needed for success in kindergarten and first grade.

Serving families with children 6 weeks to 5 years of age Child-centered Creative Curriculum Caring, degreed teachers Spacious outdoor play areas Nutritious lunches and snacks daily Affordable, all child care subsidies accepted

NOW ENROLLING! CALL 614.224.9284 FOR THE CENTER NEAREST YOU OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE

Childcare centers DIRECTORY

Columbus Parent and Action for Children have teamed up to bring you our first Childcare Directory. Action for Children is a nonprofit childcare resource and referral agency that has been serving Central Ohio families since 1972.

ABOUT THE DIRECTORY Included in this directory are 196 full-time and part-time childcare centers, including those with preschools. While Action for Children has nearly 1,700 providers listed in its database, for this directory we chose to list centers that are licensed by the State of Ohio’s Department of Job and Family Services or its Department of Education, and which also have received national accreditation and/or Ohio’s Step Up to Quality star rating.

The list of centers which meet these criteria is subject to change, even on a daily basis. For example, new centers may receive accreditation or a star rating, or, for a variety of reasons, centers may not be re-accredited or may have a change in their star rating. We also have not included at-home providers in this directory, but Action for Children can provide information and referrals to those in your area.

Action for Children’s resource and information specialists provide detailed explanations of public funding, licensing, accreditation and Step Up to Quality; guide parents through the search criteria; and provide options that include full-day, part-day centers, Head Start programs and family home child care. There is no cost for these services.

HOW TO READ THE DIRECTORY

WWW.COLUMBUSEARLYLEARNING.ORG

FOUR CONVENIENT LOCATIONS, ONE PURPOSE!

• The first section of the directory lists full-time childcare and early learning centers, and the second section lists part-time center programs (preschools).

• Within each section, the listings are organized by zip code and then alphabetically within each zip code.

stepping

• The asterisk (*) after some centers’ names

stones Learning Center • Caring, Degreed Teachers • Stimulating Learning Environments • Clean, Spacious Facilities

means they accept families who qualify for publicly-funded child care. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) provides financial assistance to income-eligible parents (based on the family size and income in relation to the federal poverty level) so that they can work or attend school or job training. Families may be eligible for all or part of their monthly child care expenses. Ohio’s county departments of job and family services determine families’ eligibility, and the ODJFS reimburses providers for the cost of that care.

How to reach

ACTION FOR CHILDREN for more information:

ON THE WEB: actionforchildren.org ON THE PHONE: Franklin County. . . . . . . . . . . 614-224-0222 Delaware County . . . . . . . . . 740-369-0649 Fairfield County. . . . . . . . . . . 740-687-6833 Licking County . . . 740-345-6166, ext. 209 Madison County . . . 740-852-0975, ext. 15 Pickaway County. . . . . . . . . . 740-477-1602 InUnion County . . . . . . . . . . . 937-645-2017

• The age range indicates the minimum and maximum ages served.

• Centers are identified as nationally accredited (NAEYC, NAC) or star rated (in Ohio’s Step

Infants • Toddlers Preschool Children School Age Occasional Care Conveniently located near I-71 and SR 161 860 Griswold Street • Worthington

614-885-6656 • WWW.WORTHINGTONSSLC.ORG 6

| January 2011 | Childcare Directory | columbusparent.com

Up to Quality program) and help parents identify childcare centers that go beyond the minimum standards of licensing. Quality indicators include lower child-teacher ratios, more highly trained teachers, early learning programming, smaller group sizes, etc. Seeking this accreditation or rating is voluntary.

• The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) offers a national voluntary accreditation system, which sets professional quality standards for early childhood education programs. The other national center accreditation is from the National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education (NAC).

• Step Up to Quality is Ohio’s voluntary quality three-star rating system for the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) licensed centers. Step Up to Quality recognizes early care and education programs that exceed quality benchmarks over and above Ohio’s licensing standards.

Full-time Childcare and Early Learning Centers DELAWARE AREA CAREER CENTER-ECE*

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER*

Accreditation: NAEYC , Start Smart MY PLACE-INFANTPRESCHOOL-TODDLER-SACC* Center Accreditation

1610 State Rte. 521 Delaware, OH 43015 740-363-1993 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

6036 Tara Hill Dr Dublin, OH 43017 614-761-7668 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

1335 E. Main St., Newark, OH 43055 740-349-3505 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

ENCHANTED CARE LEANING CENTER*

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER*

7376 Gooding Blvd. A Delaware, OH 43015 740-548-5529 Age Range: 6 weeks-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

5900 Innovation Dr. Dublin, OH 43017 614-792-9260 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

LEADS HEAD START*

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER-DUBLIN*

607 Sunbury Rd. Delaware, OH 43015 740-363-8810 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Two Star

4960 Park Center Ave. Dublin, OH 43017 614-761-2323 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAC, One Star

LIBERTY COMMUNITY CHILDREN’S CENTER*

LA PETITE ACADEMY DUBLIN*

207 London Rd. Delaware, OH 43015 740-369-3876 Age Range: 6 weeks-5 years Accreditation: One Star

7135 Sawmill Rd., Dublin, OH 43017 614-766-6653 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

THE CHILDREN’S CENTER OHIO WESLEYAN EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER 29 Park Ave., Delaware, OH 43015 740-368-3935 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

JCC NORTH PRESCHOOL*

6190 Shamrock Court, Suite A Dublin, OH 43017 614-792-8200 Age Range: 6 weeks-9 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, One Star

THE GODDARD SCHOOL OF DUBLIN

1985 Swansford Dr. Dublin, OH 43016 614-764-2414 Age Range: 6 weeks-8 years Accreditation: One Star

6239 Perimeter Dr. Dublin, OH 43017 614-799-8870 Age Range: 6 weeks-10 years Accreditation: NAEYC

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER #1241*

THE OXFORD SCHOOL OF DUBLIN*

5757 Shannon Heights Blvd.

Dublin, OH 43016 614-764-0301 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAC, One Star

DUBLIN LEARNING ACADEMY 5900 Cromdale Dr. Dublin, OH 43017 614-761-1800 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

5700 Blazer Pkwy.

Dublin, OH 43017 614-792-2220 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

CHILDREN’S CASTLE EDUCARE* 4990 Roberts Rd., Hilliard, OH 43026 614-527-8445 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAC, One Star

NEWARK CAMPUS CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER 1179 University Dr. Newark, OH 43055 740-366-9340 Age Range: 18 months-10 years Accreditation: NAEYC, One Star

PRIDE-N-JOY PRESCHOOL DANIEL SOHNER PHOTO

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER* 4780 Cemetery Rd. Hilliard, OH 43026 614-876-8116 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAC, One Star

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER-AVERY* 4705 Avery Rd., Hilliard, OH 43026 614-777-1077 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAC, One Star

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER-RIDGEMILL #634* 3700 Ridge Mill Dr. Hilliard, OH 43026 614-771-8909 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAC

RAINBOW CHILD CARE, TOO* 5599 Hilliard Rome Office Park Hilliard, OH 43026 614-777-5640 Age Range: 6 weeks-5 years Accreditation: One Star

RESURRECTION EARLY LEARNING CENTER* 3500 Main St., Hilliard, OH 43026 614-876-8896 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation,

THE GODDARD SCHOOL ROBERTS CT. 2525 Roberts Court Hilliard, OH 43026

614-777-8827 Age Range: 6 weeks-10 years Accreditation: One Star

TOMORROW’S CHILD 3975 Brown Park Dr. Hilliard, OH 43026 614-876-6756 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY PLACE AT POLARIS* 9331 S. Old State Rd. Lewis Center, OH 43035 614-846-2429 Age Range: 6 weeks-10 years Accreditation: One Star

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER* 8694 Oak Creek Dr. Lewis Center, OH 43035 740-548-9669 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAEYC

KINDERCARE* 96 Neverland Dr. Lewis Center, OH 43035 740-549-0264 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAC

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER* 5524 New Albany Rd. E. New Albany, OH 43054 614-775-0014 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

1319 W. Main St. Newark, OH 43055 740-522-3338 Age Range: 6 weeks-10 years Accreditation: One Star

CHILDTIME LEARNING CENTER 170 E. Broad St. Pataskala, OH 43062 740-927-8477 Age Range: 6 weeks-10 years Accreditation: One Star

MILESTONES LEARNING CENTER 8970 Hazelton-Etna Rd. Pataskala, OH 43062 740-973-9190 Age Range: 6 weeks-14 years Accreditation: One Star

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER* 10655 Sawmill Pkwy.

Powell, OH 43065 614-799-1530 Age Range: 6 weeks-10 years and 11 months Accreditation: NAEYC

SMOKY ROW CHILDREN’S CENTER* 8615 Smoky Row Rd. Powell, OH 43065 614-766-2122 Age Range: 6 weeks-10 years Accreditation: NAEYC

THE COMPASS SCHOOL 3989 N. Hampton Dr. Powell, OH 43065 614-764-8844 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years

IT TAKES A VILLAGE* 7458 E. Main St. Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 614-322-0772 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER 8295 Taylor Rd. Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 614-868-5267 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER #707* 6601 Bartlett Rd. Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 614-866-4446 Age Range: 6 weeks-9 years Accreditation: NAC, Two Star

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER* 6477 Centennial Dr. Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 614-866-3750 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAC, One Star

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER-REYNOLDSBURG* 6720 Tussing Rd. Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 614-868-9422 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAEYC

RAINBOW STATION DAY CARE - REYNOLDSBURG BRICE RD* 2010 Officeview Pl. Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 614-863-3464 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

ROMAKE BILINGUAL PRESCHOOL AND DAY CARE* 1288 Brice Rd. Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 614-759-8710 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation

columbusparent.com | Childcare Directory | January 2011 |

7

full-time centers BROOKSEDGE DAY CARE CENTER 740 Greencrest Dr. Westerville, OH 43081 614-890-9024 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER #000492 WESTERVIEW* 72 Westerview Dr. Westerville, OH 43081 614-523-1120 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER-SUNBURY* 1231 S. Sunbury Rd. Westerville, OH 43081 614-523-0277 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation

LA PETITE ACADEMY WALNUT* 1325 E.Walnut St. Westerville, OH 43081 614-895-3611 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

ST. ANN’S EDUCARE CENTER* 495 Cooper Rd. Ste. 115 Westerville, OH 43081 614-898-8687 Age Range: 6 weeks-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Two Star

VINEYARD EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER* 6000 Cooper Rd. Westerville, OH 43081 614-890-0000 Age Range: 6 weeks-5 years Accreditation: One Star

401 Park Rd. Worthington, OH 43085 614-848-3002 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER-WORTHINGTON* 600 Worthington Woods Blvd.

Worthington, OH 43085 614-785-0050 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

STEPPING STONES LEARNING CENTER* 860 Griswold St. Worthington, OH 43085 614-885-6656 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

KINGDOM KIDS CREATIVE PLAY CENTER 600 High St., Box 307 Worthington, OH 43085 614-885-7529 Age Range: 3 months-8 years Accreditation: NAEYC

5195 Amanda-Northern Rd. Amanda, OH 43102 740-969-8484 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

ASHVILLE HEAD START KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER-WORTHINGTON*

97 Miller Ave., Ashville, OH 43103

740-983-2530 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: Three Star

KIDZ ZONE 402 Oak St., Baltimore, OH 43105 740-862-4521 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

CIRCLEVILLE HEAD START 145 E. Corwin St. Circleville, OH 43113 740-474-7411 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Two Star

CREATION STATION 5679 Tarlton Rd. Circleville, OH 43113 740-474-4840 Age Range: 18 months-12 years Accreditation: One Star

PICKAWAY COUNTY HEAD START - MOUND ST CENTER

FIRST IMPRESSIONS EARLY LEARNING CENTER

424 E. Mound St. Circleville, OH 43113 740-601-0398 Age Range: Accreditation: , Three Star

2642 Columbus-Lancaster Rd. Lancaster, OH 43130 740-681-7040 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

TOMORROW’S CHILD

WEST AFTER SCHOOL CENTER

25822 State Rte. 159 Circleville, OH 43113 740-420-9382 Age Range: 1 month-13 years Accreditation: NAEYC

CREATIVE CHILD CARE WEST BROAD* 5765 W. Broad St. Galloway, OH 43119 614-878-6846 Age Range: 18 months-9 years Accreditation: One Star

PICKAWAY CO. YMCA

CYPRESS CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL & DAYCARE

440 Nicholas Dr. Circleville, OH 43113 740-477-1661 Age Range: 3 years 6 months-12 years Accreditation: One Star

377 Alton Darby Creek Rd. Galloway, OH 43119 614-878-8498 Age Range: 6 weeks-5 years 6 months Accreditation: One Star

620 Garfield Ave. Lancaster, OH 43130 740-653-5678 Age Range: 5 years-12 years Accreditation: One Star

CHILD’S PLAY LEARNING CENTER 11795 Pickerington Rd. Pickerington, OH 43147 614-833-1836 Age Range: 1 month-12 years Accreditation: Two Star

KINDER CARE #513 12910 Stonecreek Dr. Pickerington, OH 43147 614-866-7818 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAC

HEAVENLY KIDS

Quality Childcare Services to children ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

For information on educational programs for infants & toddlers, preschoolers, and School age children in Columbus, Ohio.

Contact us today at 614-221-5750 or browse our website www.heavenlykidslearn. www.heavenlykidslearn.com Mention this ad to waive the $50 registration fee!

404 E Mound St, Columbus 435215 8

| January 2011 | Childcare Directory | columbusparent.com

Because kids don’t come with instruction manuals.

Sign up today to receive free, customizable health information for the children in your care. From the pediatric experts at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Health e-Hints™ contains age-relevant articles on infants, toddlers, preschoolers, school-aged children, tweens and teens. Published six times a year, it’s packed with great information you can use.

Subscribe today for the parent or childcare worker edition FREE at www.NationwideChildrens.org/e-newsletter-sign-up

for more information call: 614-761-3060 columbusparent.com | Childcare Directory | January 2011 |

9

Setting The Standard In Early Care & Education Offering outstanding Reggio-Inspired Infant, Toddler and Preschool programs, as well as Kindergarten, afterschool & summer camp for school-age children.

www.TheCompassSchool.com Discover the difference that degreed teachers, excellent parent communication, NAEYC Accreditation, and a welcoming family environment can make. Schedule your personal tour today!

$300 OFF Second Month’s Tuition* Valid for new enrollment only. May not combine with other offers. $300 for full-time or $150 for part-time programs. Ad must be submitted with application fee. Offer expires 3/15/11.

Call 614.764.8844 to schedule your personal tour.

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOUR CHILD!

WE JOY SING Music & Movement Birth to age 5

Quality Time with Your Child Playfully Nurture Early Skills Register Now

Music Enhances: Movement Brain Development

614-868-0107 www.wejoysing.com 10% off enrollment with this ad 17 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU WEEKDAY, EVENING & SATURDAY CLASSES 10

1545 Cross Creeks Dr. Pickerington, OH 43147 614-751-9707 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

LITTLE TIGERS PRESCHOOL 94 W. Church St. Pickerington, OH 43147 614-837-3932 Age Range: 18 months-12 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation

YMCA HERITAGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Y-CLUB

CHILDREN’S EXPRESS LEARNING STATION

614.764.8844

Music Skills Creativity

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER #1682

100 East St., Pickerington, OH 43147 614-834-9622 Age Range: 5 years-10 years Accreditation: Two Star

The Compass School 3989 North Hampton Drive Powell, Ohio 43065 (located off of Sawmill Pkwy)

Language Self-Esteem

full-time centers

| January 2011 | Childcare Directory | columbusparent.com

623 W. Main St. West Jefferson, OH 43162 614-879-6484 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

FAMILY CHILD CARE 361 Madison Dr. N. West Jefferson, OH 43162 614-879-4749 Age Range: 2 weeks-6 years Accreditation: One Star

COLUMBUS EARLY LEARNING CENTER NORTHSIDE*

OSU CHILD CARE PROGRAM ACKERMAN RD.*

COLUMBUS EARLY LEARNING CENTER - B.I.T.C.*

725 Ackerman Rd. Columbus, OH 43202 614-292-4453 Age Range: 6 weeks-6 years Accreditation: NAEYC, One Star

760 E. Broad St. Columbus, OH 43205 614-221-6102 Age Range: 6 weeks-3 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Two Star

COLUMBUS EARLY LEARNING CENTER - EASTSIDE*

NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL EMPLOYEE CHILD CARE CENTER*

162 N. Ohio Ave. Columbus, OH 43203 614-253-5525 Age Range: 18 months-8 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, Two Star

650 S. 18th St. Columbus, OH 43205 614-355-9450 Age Range: 6 weeks-6 years Accreditation: NAEYC

KINGS ARTS CENTER CDCFC HEAD START*

SOUTH SIDE LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER*

867 Mt. Vernon Ave. Columbus, OH 43203 614-258-2300 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE CHILD CARE* 1000 Atcheson St. Columbus, OH 43203 614-252-4941 Age Range: 6 weeks-10 years Accreditation: NAEYC

R.F. HAIRSTON EARLY LEARNING CENTER*

255 Reeb Ave. Columbus, OH 43207 614-444-1529 Age Range: 2 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, Two Star

SOUTHSIDE LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT CTR. LINCOLN PARK* 1700 S. 20th St. Columbus, OH 43207 614-445-8731 Age Range: 6 weeks-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Two Star

SOUTHSIDE SETTLEMENT HOUSE*

400 N. 20th St. Columbus, OH 43203 614-252-6876 Age Range: 6 weeks-5 years Accreditation: One Star

310 Innis Ave., Columbus, OH 43207 614-444-9868 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, One Star

ST. PHILIP CDCFC HEAD START*

STARTING POINT LEARNING CARE, LLC*

166 Woodland Ave. Columbus, OH 43203 614-252-1191 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

2533 Lockbourne Rd. Columbus, OH 43207 614-491-1914 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: Two Star

94 E. Third Ave. Columbus, OH 43201 614-299-1131 Age Range: 1 year 9 months-5 years 6 months Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, Three Star

GLENWOOD CENTER FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD*

CHRIST LUTHERAN CHILDREN’S CENTER*

2833 Valleyview Dr. Columbus, OH 43204 614-274-0283 Age Range: 6 weeks-10 years Accreditation: One Star

2314 E. Main St. Columbus, OH 43209 614-235-1263 Age Range: 3 years-6 years Accreditation: One Star

G. TYREE LEARNING CENTER CDCFC HEAD START*

ST. AGNES CUL HEAD START CENTER*

1077 Lexington Ave. Columbus, OH 43201 614-737-4300 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

CREATIVE CHILD CARE WASHINGTON SQUARE*

2350 W. Mound St. Columbus, OH 43204 614-274-8822 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

2525 Petzinger Rd., Columbus, OH 43209 614-235-7979 Age Range: 18 months-9 years Accreditation: One Star

A Christian based Early Education Center

2001-2011 Ten Years Of Caring and Learning!

5475 Brand Rd Dublin, Ohio 43017 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church

614-209-4554 www.princeofpeacedublin.org

columbusparent.com | Childcare Directory | January 2011 |

11

full-time centers EASTMINSTER CHILD’S PLAY AND LEARNING CENTER* 3100 E. Broad St., Bexley, OH 43209 614-231-0222 Age Range: 6 weeks-5 years Accreditation: One Star

DESTINEE AND FRIENDS LEARNING CENTER* 1474 Cleveland Ave. Columbus, OH 43211 614-424-6080 Age Range: 6 weeks-5 years Accreditation: One Star

ROYAL CHILD DAY CARE CENTER* 1155 Windsor Ave. Columbus, OH 43211 614-294-7232 Age Range: 18 months-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, One Star

HOLY TRINITY CHILD DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

R A D I A N T

2001 Northwest Blvd.

Columbus, OH 43212 614-486-2895 Age Range: 2 years 6 months8 years Accreditation: Two Star

KARE-A-LOT CHILD CARE CENTER* 1030 King Ave. Columbus, OH 43212 614-298-8933 Age Range: 6 weeks-8 years Accreditation: Two Star

C. RAY WILLIAMS EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER* 4737 Etna Rd. Whitehall, OH 43213 614-417-5680 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER UM PRESCHOOL & CHILD CARE 235 McNaughten Rd. Columbus, OH 43213 614-861-7271 Age Range: 3 years-6 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, Two Star

CREATIVE CHILD CARE - EAST* 5831 Westbourne Ave. Columbus, OH 43213 614-864-2424 Age Range: 18 months-9 years Accreditation: NAEYC, One Star

DSCC - CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER 3990 E. Broad St. Columbus, OH 43213 614-692-2852 Age Range: 6 weeks-6 years Accreditation: NAEYC

TODAY’S CHILD LEARNING CENTER* 3715 E. Main St. Whitehall, OH 43213 614-235-0096 Age Range: 16 weeks-10 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation

CASEY’S KIDS* 700 Jasonway Ave. Columbus, OH 43214 614-340-4898 Age Range: 18 months-5 years Accreditation: One Star

48 E. North Broadway Columbus, OH 43214 614-262-6222 Age Range: 6 weeks-11 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, One Star

OLENTANGY CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH CHILD CARE

614-227-0550 Age Range: 6 weeks-6 years Accreditation: NAEYC

614-221-5750 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

C. JAMES GROTHAUS CHILD CARE CENTER

NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL CHILD CARE CENTER*

275 E. Broad St. Columbus, OH 43215 614-227-2995 Age Range: 2 months-5 years Accreditation: Two Star

3660 Olentangy River Rd. Columbus, OH 43214 614-459-9383 Age Range: 18 months-5 years 6 months Accreditation: One Star

CHILDREN FIRST INC.*

RIVERSIDE CHILDREN’S CENTER

COLUMBUS EARLY LEARNING CENTER - WESTSIDE*

835 Thomas Ln. Columbus, OH 43214 614-566-4847 Age Range: 6 weeks-10 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation

40 N. Grubb St. Columbus, OH 43215 614-224-9284 Age Range: 18 months-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, Two Star

BRIGHT HORIZONS AT CAPITAL CITY

HEAVENLY KIDS CENTER FOR LEARNING - CENTRAL*

277 E. Town St. Columbus, OH 43215

404 E. Mound St. Columbus, OH 43215

77 S. High St. Columbus, OH 43215 614-466-0945 Age Range: 6 weeks-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, One Star

255 E. Main St. Columbus, OH 43215 614-355-0600 Age Range: 2 years 6 months-5 years 6 months Accreditation: NAEYC, Three Star

CHASE BACK-UP CHILD CARE CENTER 3415 Vision Dr. Columbus, OH 43219 614-422-1366 Age Range: 6 weeks-13 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation

F.C.I. TOO! EARLY LEARNING ACADEMY* 2511 Mock Rd. Columbus, OH 43219 614-471-8486 Age Range: 18 months-11 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation

Caring for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

• Low teacher/child ratio • Full and part-time for all ages • Meals provided • Transportation for latchkey students

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES (Classes offered are subject to change)

• Gymnastics and tumbling • Music and piano • Foreign language

7055 Avery Road, Dublin Ohio 43017 Phone: 614-889-8369 • Fax: 614-889-8827 www.radiantkids.org

K I D S 12

NORTH BROADWAY CHILDRENS CENTER*

CHILD CARE CENTER | January 2011 | Childcare Directory | columbusparent.com

!

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Autism Spectrum Disorders

OCALI Lending Library I Suspect My Child Has Autism: A Four Step for Ohio Parents on What to Do Next

Ohio’s Parent Guide to Autism Spectrum Disorders

Services and Supports Database Find Disability Services Providers Close to Home

Autism Internet Modules

Lending Library Resources

Comprehensive, Up-to-Date Autism Information

Books, DVDs, VHS Cassettes and Asssitive Technology Devices

Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence Disabilities

Funded in part through a grant from the Ohio Department of Education Office for Exceptional Children.

ocali.org 614.410.0321

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(1/3 mile west of Polaris Mall, behind KFC)

(On S.R. 3 just 2 traffic lights, North of Maxtown)

792-2899

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428-9999

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columbusparent.com | Childcare Directory | January 2011 |

13

Is your child on the right track?

full-time centers PRECIOUS JEWELS EARLY LEARNING CENTER 3650 Sunbury Rd. Columbus, OH 43219 614-471-5650 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

has received star ratings from Ohio’s step up to quality program!

1123 Bethel Rd. Columbus, 43220 614.451.5200

3480 Snouffer Rd. Columbus, 43235 614-792-8700

www.jellybeanjunction.com

Lewis Center Preschool

A ministry of Lewis Center United Methodist Church One Star Step Up To Quality Award Winner Registration Open for current families and church families beginning on January 11, 2011 Registration open for all families beginning February 1, 2011 2 DAY CLASSES are held for 2.5-3 year old children on Tuesdays & Thursdays 8:30-11:30 AM or 12:30-3:30 PM 3 DAY CLASSES are held for 3-5 year old children on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 8:30-11:30 AM or 12:30-3:30 PM

lewiscenterpreschooldirector@yahoo.com • 740.548.1934 Call or email to schedule a tour with your child.

14

| January 2011 | Childcare Directory | columbusparent.com

3750 W. Henderson Rd. Columbus, OH 43220 614-457-4085 Age Range: 1 year-10 years Accreditation: One Star

KARE-A-LOT* 3164 Riverside Dr. Columbus, OH 43221 614-481-7532 Age Range: 2 months-6 years Accreditation: Two Star

ST.STEPHENS COMMUNITY HOUSE-CHRIST CHILD, CHILD CARE CENTER*

LABC CHILD NURTURING CENTER*

1500 E. 17th Ave. Columbus, OH 43219 614-294-6347 Age Range: 6 weeks-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

1610 W. Lane Ave. Columbus, OH 43221 614-486-5567 Age Range: 18 months-11 years Accreditation: One Star

YMCA EARLY LEARNING CENTER*

RIVERSIDE METHODIST CHILD CARE

2879 Johnstown Rd. Columbus, OH 43219 614-342-5836 Age Range: 6 weeks-6 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Two Star

2701 Zollinger Rd. Columbus, OH 43221 614-486-5202 Age Range: 6 weeks-6 years Accreditation: One Star

YWCA FAMILY CENTER*

LINDBERGH CDCFC HEAD START CENTER *

900 Harvey Court Columbus, OH 43219 614-253-3910 Age Range: 6 weeks-5 years Accreditation: One Star

BURBANK EARLY CHILDHOOD SCHOOL 4770 Burbank Dr. Columbus, OH 43220 614-487-5155 Age Range: 2 years 6 months-6 years Accreditation: NAEYC

JELLY BEAN JUNCTION LEARNING CENTER INC.* 1123 Bethel Rd. Columbus, OH 43220 614-451-5200 Age Range: 6 weeks-10 years Accreditation: One Star

MEADOW PARK CHILDREN’S CENTER*

1081 Lewis Center Road, Lewis Center, OH 43035

SUNSHINE NURSERY SCHOOL*

2425 Bethel Rd. Columbus, OH 43220 614-451-8814 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, Two Star

2541 Lindbergh Dr. Columbus, OH 43223 614-351-9454 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

YMCA HILLTOP EDUCARE CENTER* 1952-A W. Broad St. Columbus, OH 43223 614-752-8877 Age Range: 6 weeks-5 years 6 months Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, Three Star

CREATIVE CHILD CARE NORTH* 1601 Shanley Dr. Columbus, OH 43224 614-261-8153 Age Range: 18 months-8 years Accreditation: One Star

KIDS CARE ACADEMY - NEW COVENANT BELIEVERS CHURCH* 3360 Kohr Blvd.

Columbus, OH 43224 614-478-3269 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years

Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, Three Star

LITTLE DISCIPLES LEARNING CENTER* 4142 Westerville Rd. Ste. 200 Columbus, OH 43224 614-418-9444 Age Range: 3 years-13 years Accreditation: One Star

BRIGHTSIDE ACADEMY EARLY CARE AND EDUCATION* 3611 E. Livingston Ave. Columbus, OH 43227 614-238-9470 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

COLUMBUS MONTESSORI EDUCATION CENTER* 979 S. James Rd. Columbus, OH 43227 614-231-3790 Age Range: 6 weeks-13 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Three Star

CREATIVE CHILD CARE WESTLAND* 485 Industrial Mile Rd. Columbus, OH 43228 614-276-2737 Age Range: 18 months-9 years Accreditation: One Star

EARLY HORIZONS LEARNING CENTER* 4330 Clime Rd. N. Columbus, OH 43228 614-275-4966 Age Range: 3 years-12 years Accreditation: One Star

THE LITTLE PREP SCHOOL, INC* 2350 Fuji Dr. Columbus, OH 43229 614-890-9014 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAEYC, One Star

YMCA NORTH BRANCH Y-CLUB* 1640 Sandalwood Place Columbus, OH 43229 614-885-4252 Age Range: 3 years-12 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, Two Star

GAHANNA CHILDREN’S COLLEGE* 230 Agler Rd., Gahanna, OH 43230 614-476-2662

Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER - CHERRY BOTTOM* 4885 Cherry Bottom Rd. Columbus, OH 43230 614-337-2035 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAEYC

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER - GAHANNA* 520 Morrison Rd. Gahanna, OH 43230 614-471-3665 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAC

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER #1550* 1341 Cherry Way Dr. Gahanna, OH 43230 614-475-2116 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAC, One Star

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER - #300708* 5351 Cleveland Ave. Columbus, OH 43231 614-891-4444 Age Range: 18 months-12 years Accreditation: One Star

NEW DIMENSIONS CHILD CARE CENTER* 2899 E. Dublin-Granville Rd. Columbus, OH 43231 614-776-5275 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: One Star

JELLY BEAN JUNCTION* 3480 Snouffer Rd. Columbus, OH 43235 614-792-8700 Age Range: 6 weeks-10 years Accreditation: Two Star

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER - SAWMILL* 4895 Sawmill Rd. Columbus, OH 43235

614-764-4900 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years Accreditation: NAEYC, One Star

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER #880* 2680 Sawbury Blvd.

Columbus, OH 43235 614-761-0797 Age Range: 6 weeks-12 years 11 months Accreditation: NAC

KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER* 2001 Hard Rd., Columbus, OH 43235 614-764-2994 Age Range: 6 weeks-10 years Accreditation: One Star

TINY TREASURES DAY CARE, LLC* 3760-D Snouffer Rd. Columbus, OH 43235 614-792-8469 Age Range: 6 weeks-10 years Accreditation: Two Star

Part-time Childcare Centers (preschools) BLACKLICK/GAHANNA CDCFC DUBLIN COMMUNITY HEAD START PRESCHOOL

LITTLE LEARNERS @ NEWARK CITY SCHOOLS

6540 Havens Corners Rd. Blacklick, OH 43004 614-856-0469 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

85 E. Main St., Newark, OH 43055 740-670-7025 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

81 1/2 W. Bridge St. Dublin, OH 43017 614-889-0052 Age Range: 2 years 8 months-5 years Accreditation: Three Star

LEADS HEAD START BUCKEYE LAKE

LITTLE SHEPHERDS PRESCHOOL

5312 Walnut Rd. Buckeye Lake, OH 43008 740-928-1123 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Three Star

5475 Brand Rd., Dublin, OH 43017 614-209-4554 Age Range: 2 years 6 months-6 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, Two Star

INDIAN RUN PRESCHOOL 6305 Brand Rd., Dublin, OH 43016 614-889-8862 Age Range: 2 years 6 months5 years Accreditation: Two Star

ST. JOHN CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL 6135 Rings Rd., Dublin, OH 43016 614-889-5893 Age Range: 3 years-5 years 9 months Accreditation: Three Star

LEWIS CENTER PRESCHOOL 1019 Lewis Center Rd. Lewis Center, OH 43035 740-548-1934 Age Range: 2 years 6 months-5 years Accreditation: One Star

LEADS HEAD START, MARYSVILLE 111 Morey Dr., Marysville, OH 43040 937-642-1230 Age Range: 3 years-6 years Accreditation: Three Star

LEADS HEAD STARTPATASKALA 12536 Adams Ln. Pataskala, OH 43062 740-927-1267 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Three Star

For: Preschoolers & Young Kindergart eners ages 3-6 years The new 8,000 sq. ft. Village Academy preschool will be open for the 2011-12 school year.

Located north of the arts conservatory, this building will be a part of the main campus.

Preschool & YK students will have access to the facilities of the main campus such as the Fine Arts Conservatory, tennis courts, and the gymnasium, as well as programming for accelerated students.

Find out more at the OPEN HOUSE on January 19th Call today to R.S.V.P. (614) 841.0050 284 S. Liberty St. Powell, OH 43065 | VillageAcademySchools.org

Overbrook Preschool ENROLLING FOR FALL 2011 Serving the community for 45 years Classes available for 2 1/2 through 5 year olds

NEW HOPE PRESCHOOL 4739 W. Powell Rd. Powell, OH 43065 614-766-2446 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: Two Star

Morning and Afternoon classes 4131 N. High St., Columbus, OH • (614) 261-1029 http://overbrookpreschool.com

POWELL UNITED METHODIST PRESCHOOL 825 E. Olentangy St. Powell, OH 43065 614-847-3773 Age Range: 2 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

columbusparent.com | Childcare Directory | January 2011 |

15

Northside Christian School Prospective Parent Open House Feb. 4th, 7:00

• K3 through 12th grade • Acclaimed Fine Arts • Exceptional Academics • Competitive Athletics • Foreign Languages • Small Class Sizes • Latchkey Program • Modern Science & Computer Labs • Biblical worldview that encourages spiritual growth

An exceptional value in private school options 2655 Schrock Road, Westerville 614-882-1493 • www.ncslions.org

part-time centers LEADS HEAD START - UTICA 308 Main St., Utica, OH 43080 740-892-4196 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Three Star

CENTRAL COLLEGE PRESCHOOL 975 S Sunbury Rd. Westerville, OH 43081 614-794-1123 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

Come Join Our Program & See Results!

• Toddler Classes (18mo - 36mo)-PT available • AM or PM Session For Preschool (3yr-5yr) • Half Day or All Day Kindergarten • Extended Care 7:30am-6pm • Low Child-Teacher Ratio Winner Of Best Of Columbus Award 2009 Ask About Our

New Years Specials!

2855 Snouffer Road

Columbus, OH 43235 Worthington School District

614-761-2727

AMAZING KIDS ACADEMY

3160 Brice Rd., Brice, OH 43109 614-866-2268 Age Range: 2 years 9 months-5 years 6 months Accreditation: One Star

4501 Hoover Rd. Grove City, OH 43123 614-539-4800 Age Range: 2 years 6 months5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, One Star

DAVID LUTHERAN CHRISTIAN HEAD START OF MADISON PRESCHOOL COUNTY (MVCDC) 330 Groveport Rd. Canal Winchester, OH 43110 614-920-3517 Age Range: 3 years-5 years 6 months Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation

1501 State Rte. 38 NE London, OH 43140 740-852-5412 Age Range: 3 years-5 years 11 months Accreditation: One Star

YMCA JERRY L GARVER CHILD CARE PROGRAM*

94 W. Main St. Mt. Sterling, OH 43143 740-869-9256 Age Range: 3 months-5 months Accreditation: Two Star

355 Cherrington Rd. Westerville, OH 43081 614-882-8874 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

6767 Refugee Rd. Canal Winchester, OH 43110 614-834-9622 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, Three Star

ST. JOHN’S EARLY EDUCATION CENTER

LITTLE SHEPHERDS PRESCHOOL

700 High St. Worthington, OH 43085 614-885-2315 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Three Star

4925 Plum Rd., Carroll, OH 43112 740-756-7529 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

PRAISE EXPRESS PRESCHOOL

PRINCIPLES BUILDING A LIFETIME FOUNDATION

BRICE CHURCH PRESCHOOL

BALTIMORE HEAD START

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS PRESCHOOL*

1818 1/2 Basil Western Rd. Baltimore, OH 43105 740-862-3200 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

775 Galloway Rd. Galloway, OH 43119 614-878-3738 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: Two Star

MOUNT STERLING EARLY LEARNING CENTER

WEINLAND PARK PREKINDERGARTEN 211 E. Seventh Ave. Columbus, OH 43201 614-365-5321 Age Range: 4 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

YMCA HILLTOP PRESCHOOL 2879 Valleyview Dr. Columbus, OH 43204 614-276-8224 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: Three Star

Age Range: 4 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

BETH JACOB PRESCHOOL 1223 College Ave. Columbus, OH 43209 614-237-8641 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

FIRST COMMUNITY CHURCH WEEKDAY PRESCHOOL 1320 Cambridge Blvd.

Columbus, OH 43212 614-488-0681 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: Two Star

TRINITY UNITED METHODIST PRESCHOOL 1581 Cambridge Blvd.

Columbus, OH 43212 614-488-3659 Age Range: 2 years-5 years 11 months Accreditation: Two Star

BETHANY LUTHERAN PRESCHOOL 1000 Noe-Bixby Rd. Columbus, OH 43213 614-866-1211 Age Range: 2 years 6 months-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, Three Star

C. RAY WILLIAMS CDCFC HEAD START

PARSONS PRE-KINDERGARTEN 4737 Etna Rd., Whitehall, OH 43213 3231 Lee Ellen Place Columbus, OH 43207 614-365-5099

614-866-7133 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

Welsh Hills School Offering exceptional education and a dedicated curriculum rooted in the Montessori tradition for children ages 18 months through grade 8 2610 Newark-Granville Road • Granville, Ohio 43023 740.522.2020 • www.welshhills.org

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| January 2011 | Childcare Directory | columbusparent.com

columbusparent.com | Childcare Directory | January 2011 |

17

ROMAKE BILINGUAL PRESCHOOL Now Enrolling for 2011-2012 & for

SUMMER SPANISH PROGRAM *Part-Time Preschool Available!

8 am - 12 noon Prepare children for success according to the Ohio Department of Education guidelines.

Tuesdays & Thursdays Offering Math, Computers & Spanish • Offer cultural experiences • Teach values, morals, and manners • Spanish class each day Infant care now! available

Romake Inc. Bilingual Preschool & Spanish Training 1288 Brice Road, Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068 Office: 614.759.8710 • Fax: 614.759.7076

part-time centers TEMPLE ISRAEL PRESCHOOL 5419 E. Broad St. Columbus, OH 43213 614-866-0010 Age Range: 2 years 6 months-5 years 9 months Accreditation: Three Star

4131 N. High St. Columbus, OH 43214 614-261-1029 Age Range: 2 years 8 months5 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Three Star

SCHOOL FOR YOUNG CHILDREN 93 W. Weisheimer Columbus, OH 43214 614-267-0254 Age Range: 2 years 3 months6 years Accreditation: NAEYC

510 E. North Broadway Columbus, OH 43214 614-263-5151 Age Range: 2 years 6 months-6 years Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, Three Star

ATONEMENT LUTHERAN PRESCHOOL 1621 Francisco Rd. Columbus, OH 43220 614-451-5212 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

2300 Lytham Rd. Columbus, OH 43220 614-451-3736 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

COVENANT PRESCHOOL 2070 Ridgecliff Rd. Upper Arlington, OH 43221 614-538-0721 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

MOUNTVIEW CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL

THE COLUMBUS SPEECH AND HEARING CENTER

2879 Johnstown Rd. Columbus, OH 43219 614-342-5837 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

1220 Bethel Rd. Columbus, OH 43220 614-451-1117 Age Range: 1 year 6 months5 years Accreditation: One Star

UPPER ARLINGTON LUTHERAN CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL

OVERBROOK WEEKDAY PRESCHOOL

JOHNSTOWN ROAD CDCFC HEAD START

BETHEL (UNITED METHODIST) CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL

2140 Fishinger Rd. Columbus, OH 43221 614-451-8691 Age Range: 2 years 6 months-5 years 6 months Accreditation: One Star

DANA ELEMENTARY PRE-KINDERGARTEN 300 S. Dana Ave. Columbus, OH 43223 614-365-5925 Age Range: 4 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

GLADDEN COMMUNITY HOUSE* 183 Hawkes Ave. Columbus, OH 43223 614-227-1624 Age Range: 3 years-5 years 6 months Accreditation: NAEYC, Start Smart Center Accreditation, Three Star

LINDEN LUTHERAN CDCFC HEAD START 1230 Oakland Park Ave.

Columbus, OH 43224 614-262-9758 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: Three Star

MAIZE MANOR UNITED METHODIST CHURCH PRESCHOOL 3901 Maize Rd. Columbus, OH 43224 614-267-4944 Age Range: 2 years 6 months-6 years Accreditation: One Star

OAKLAND PARK ALT. PRE-KINDERGARTEN 3392 Atwood Terrace Columbus, OH 43224 614-365-6058 Age Range: 4 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

BARNETT CDCFC HEAD START 1184 Barnett Rd. Columbus, OH 43227 614-237-1595 Age Range: 3 years-5 years Accreditation: One Star

NORTHTOWNE PREKINDERGARTEN 4767 Northtowne Blvd.

Columbus, OH 43229 614-365-5488 Age Range: 4 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

PARKMOOR URBAN ACADEMY PREKINDERGARTEN 1711 Penworth Dr. Columbus, OH 43229 614-365-5349 Age Range: 4 years-5 years Accreditation: NAEYC

LEADS HEAD START NORTH UNION 420 Grove St. Richwood, OH 43344 937-642-1230 Age Range: 3 years-6 years Accreditation: Three Star

Sign up for the daily e-mail at BigDealColumbus.com to find out about savings of 50% or more at your favorite Columbus shops, boutiques, spas and restaurants.

Discounts provided by the SMALL BUSINESS

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| January 2011 | Childcare Directory | columbusparent.com

columbusparent.com | Childcare Directory | January 2011 |

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Online schooling from America’s leader: K 12 K12 makes learning come alive with online content, textbooks, hands-on activities, and expert teachers. Our options include tuition-free online public schools, an accredited private school, and direct purchase of 210+ courses. K12 is the leader in online education for grades K–12. Find out why at K12.com.

IS YOUR CHILD HAPPY IN SCHOOL? Get to know Ohio’s full-time, tuition-free public school option The Ohio Virtual Academy and K12 give Ohio kids in grades K–12 the chance to learn in the ways that are right for them. OHVA offers:

•Award-winning K12 curriculum •Support from Ohio-licensed teachers •Supportive school community and extracurricular activities •A robust Advanced Learner Program •Books, materials, and loaner computer system

OHVA is accredited by CITA and NCA CASI and was named

K12.com

Parent’s Choice Winner for Best Public High School in Ohio by BusinessWeek and GreatSchools.net!

Enrollment for grades K–12 for 2010–2011 closes this month. Find complete details and a list of upcoming events, including our Online xPos, at K12.com/OH, or call 866.339.9074.

Follow us on Twitter @K12Learn Find us on facebook at facebook.com/K12inc

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| January 2011 | Childcare Directory | columbusparent.com

need to know: HANDY MOM

Coca-Cola One part scary, one part helpful, there’s a list of non-drinking uses for Coca-Cola that’s been making the rounds for years (it’s all related to the phosphoric and citric acid in the popular beverage). So of course Handy Mom had to check them out.

The verdict? She’s switched back to drinking just water, but she’s now got some great uses for all that undrunk pop!

—JANE HAWES

TOILET CLEANING: One can of Coke + BATTERY-CORROSION a toilet bowl + one hour = stains removed REMOVAL: Pour Coke over the corroded battery terminals in your car and watch

WINDSHIELD CLEANING: Wipes the the crud bubble away! exterior gunk clean off

DELICIOUS BAKED HAM: Wrap the RUST REMOVAL: Wet some aluminum ham in foil, set it into a baking pan filled foil in Coca-Cola and rub away rust from chrome car bumpers, or soak a rag in Coke and let it sit on a rusted bolt for a few minutes to dissolve rust and loosen the bolt.

GREASE-STAIN REMOVAL: Got grease on your clothes? Pour a can of Coke in with the detergent and run the wash load as usual.

wo t o n t a h t is it true

s how doe e k a s an l f ? e w k i l o a irplane sn are a l if the grt off oun

Because

A & Q !

A N D r u o n i is

s o k c e g do ight vision? have n

with one can of Coke, and bake. Thirty minutes before it’s done, remove the foil and let the drippings roast with the Coke to create a gravy as it finishes baking.

what’s so funny about my

d?

! ha ha

funny bon e?

Win a bunkbed covered in geckos!

COSI and Bunk & Loft Factory have teamed up to give away a bunkbed that’s as amazing as the Geckos: Tails to Toepads exhibit now at COSI! See Geckos and the bunkbed at COSI starting January 15. Double your chances of winning by registering at both COSI and Bunk & Loft Factory located at 2999 Silver Drive in Columbus

by February 28, 2011.

Visit cosi.org/geckos for contest rules and regulations.

cosi.org 333 West Broad Street Columbus, Ohio 43215 614.228.2674 Stay connected to COSI:

columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

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family fun: EATING OUT WITH KIDS

Dim Sum

at Sunflower Chinese Restaurant

THE MOM SAYS: I haven’t told my son yet but, during our dim sum dining experience at Sunflower Chinese Restaurant, I’m pretty sure we ate something that was part of a late animal’s reproductive system.

And that sums up (pardon the pun) both the fun and fear of dim sum: Unless you’re part of the Chinese-speaking community, it’s going to be a culinary adventure.

Dim sum is a fascinating dining tradition where you share small servings of bite-sized food ranging from spicy to savory to sweet, and they’re wheeled around on carts that you make your selections from. Because my son had just finished a unit on China in his social studies class, I figured this would be a great way to top it off.

So one Saturday noontime we headed down to a strip mall along Sawmill Road near Dublin. The place was already packed and the two of us had to wait about 10 minutes for a table (they don’t seem to take reservations).

I think the fact that there were only two of us affected the experience. Dim sum defi-

JODI MILLER PHOTOS

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

nitely is best experienced with a crowd, not just so you can compare notes on what you’re eating, but so you can garner more attention from the staff. I had a hard time getting a pot of tea for myself and I had to get up and beg the dessert-cart server to come to our table. Larger groups of diners didn’t seem to suffer from the same lack of attention.

We also got only very rushed explanations on dishes and never managed to get a poultry dish other than chicken feet, despite a request for one. And, like I said, I’m pretty sure that one of the dishes — which unfortunately was very boiled and bland to our tastes — had done hard time in some animal’s nether regions.

All that said, several of the dishes were tasty. I especially liked the steamed barbecue pork buns, steamed pork dumplings and the egg custard tarts (though they are very heavy on the yolk).

I would say that if you’ve got adventurous eaters, dim sum is worth doing at least once as a family. It certainly gave us a lot to

SUNFLOWER CHINESE RESTAURANT 7370 Sawmill Rd., Dublin 614-764-7888 columbussunflower.com COST: About $15 per person. Each dish costs $4, $5 or $6, but you have to ask your server which is which as you order.

HOURS FOR DIM SUM SERVICE: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday

talk about, comparing how different countries’ food traditions develop and why. Eating chicken feet definitely makes the concept of “waste not, want not” very real to a kid.

The women’s bathroom was very clean and had an often-used diaperchanging station (there wasn’t one in the men’s bathroom, my son said).

The restaurant does attract lots of families with small children, many of whom played happily under the tables while their parents and grandparents lingered over their meals. And be wary of the parking lot — it’s busy and cars move quickly through it. —JANE HAWES

THE FOOD

THE SERVICE

THE BATHROOM

FAVORITE BITE MOM: Steamed barbecue pork bun

KID: Steamed pork dumpling

THE KID SAYS: I thought dim sum would be a fun experience. It met many of my expectations and mostly the good ones. There wasn’t as much rice as I thought, but there was a lot more meat.

It’s fun to have everything come around on a cart because you get to see everything before you order it, so you have a more indepth perspective on what you want and what you don’t.

For example, I didn’t want the chicken feet but my mom did. I still tried it, but I didn’t like it. There were lots of bits and pieces of bone and it was just a thin outer layering of something and then just bone.

The meat around it was no thicker than a centimeter. It did gross me out, the idea of eating chicken feet. Just think about where those feet have been.

Sunflower is a place you should go to if you are a meat lover. There was beef mixed into almost everything, plus chicken and pork. The steamed pork dumpling is very good except I suggest eating it with a fork.

It’s pretty slippery and I don’t think I would be able to hold onto it with chopsticks.

I had the strawberry smoothie, which was delightful. The egg custard tart was not very good. It was pretty much scrambled eggs with no salt in a bread cup. The barbecued pork bun was very good. Just don’t pick it up with your hands because it’s very sticky.

The service was OK. They didn’t do a very good job of explaining what the food was, even though we asked. The bathrooms were pretty small but they were clean.

I might go back but pick carefully what you eat. —COLIN HAWES

columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

53

family fun: COOKING WITH KIDS

Flip flap

JACK STORY BY JANE HAWES PHOTOS BY DANIEL SOHNER

The first snow of the season swirled outside the sunny yellow walls and windows of the AEP Education Pavilion at Franklin Park Conservatory, but inside a dozen preschoolers sat, toasty warm, as they learned about a new kind of carnivorous cuisine. They were constructing and then devouring “Flip Flap Jacks,” a nutritious and tasty breakfast treat.

“I think it’s really cute plus it teaches them about good things to eat,” observed Victoria Clark, who had accompanied her 4-year-old granddaughter Kirsten Hudson on the class trip that day. The students attend the Early Childhood Education and Family Center in north Columbus.

“Plus,” Clark added, “you’ve got the listening skills and a few other things going on.”

The Conservatory’s educator Leslie Markworth had first used a photo collage with pictures of fruits, pancakes, waffles and yogurt to teach the children how to create their Flip Flap Jacks.

“Do you know what he’s missing?” Markworth said, pondering the man-shaped figure they had been building.

“A belly button!” shouted Jasan Johnson, 4. And they added a raspberry to give Flip Flap Jack his missing belly button.

The verdict on the recipe: “I ate the whole body,” declared Mauriceo Howell, 4. “It was deee-licious!”

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FLIP FLAP JACKS INGREDIENTS (for one serving):

• 1 thin slice of cantaloupe melon, rind removed and cut in half

• 1 raspberry • 2 blueberries • 1 banana, peeled and sliced in half, and then with each slice cut in half

• 1 strawberry, cut in half • 1 apple slice • 1 Clementine (or orange), peeled and sectioned Our chefs for this round of Cooking with Kids are students at the Early Childhood Education and Family Center, located at 2879 Johnstown Rd. in Columbus. The center serves up to 700 children each year from birth through age 6, both with and without special needs. For information about the center, call 614-475-0564.

The “Flip Flap Jacks” program was a pilot program at the Franklin Park Conservatory’s Education Department. The Conservatory offers a wide variety of cooking classes at its AEP Education Pavilion on the Scotts Miracle-Gro Community Garden Campus, 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus. For more information about their classes, go to fpconservatory.org.

• 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt • 1 mini-waffles (available in the frozen-food section of the grocery store), baked or toasted

• 1 mini-pancake, baked or toasted

• 1 French toast stick, baked or toasted, and then cut in half

DIRECTIONS:

TM

KID: Wash and drain the raspberries, blueberSports Programs

ries and strawberries. Peel the banana. Peel and section the Clementine (with help, if needed).

Jump Start Little Hoop Stars (ages 4 6) Sessions begin Jan. 8 & Feb. 26 An instructional and recreational basketball program that teaches the basics of dribbling, passing, shooting, positioning, defense and rebounding in a fun oriented program.

GROWNUP: Cut and prepare the cantaloupe, the cleaned strawberries, and apple. Bake or toast the mini-waffles, mini-pancakes and French toast sticks.

Pillow Street Hockey (ages 3 ½ 5 ½) Sessions begin Jan. 13 & Feb 17 This fun and energetic class teaches your child the basics of street hockey without the use of skates.

KID: Assemble the Flip Flap Jack on a large plate. Add plenty of vanilla yogurt to the crown of Flip Flap Jack’s head to dip everything in.

GROWNUP AND KID: Eat!

Yogurt Hair

Winter Events & Programs

Tennis Tots (ages 4 5) Session begins Feb. 1 Get your young ones started early in an introduction to tennis! Tennis racquets and balls are provided.

Blueberry Eyes

Apple Slice Mouth

Orange Ears

Mini-Pancake Head Banana Arms

Family Events

Family Night Challenge (ages 12 & under) Friday, Jan. 21, 6:30 8 p.m.

Calling all families to join us for a night of competition, fun and lots of laughs in our own series of 60-second challenges.

Community Book & Movie Swap Saturday, Jan. 29 Books must be in good and readable condition with the cover intact and DVD s must be fully operable and in their original case. Detailed information is available at http://dublin.oh.us/recreation/preschool.

For more information or to register visit: www.dublin.oh.us/recreation or call 614-410-4550 Roger Day Saturday, Jan. 8 11 a.m., ages 3 & up A Parents Choice® Gold Award winner, Roger s skilled musicianship combines wit and wordplay that parents enjoy as much as their kids.

Tickets: $7 adults; $5 children and seniors

Mini-Waffle Body Cantaloupe Melon Slice Legs

Raspberry Belly Button

Magic Man Carroll Baker Saturday, Jan. 15 11 a.m., ages 5 & up The Magic Man brings a completely new show for your amusement.

Tickets: $7 adults; $5 children and seniors Columbus Children s Choir Sunday, Jan. 23 3 p.m., for all ages.

The CCC is a treble choir composed of the finest young singers in Columbus and Central Ohio. Tickets: $7 adults; $5 children and seniors

French Toast Stick Feet facebook.com/DublinOhio

twitter.com/DublinOhio

dublin.oh.us/enews

columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

55

family fun: PARTIES

Candy-Coated

Birthday

BY JANE HAWES • PHOTOS BY DANIEL SOHNER

On paper, it sounds like the recipe for the world’s biggest sugar crash: Hold a birthday party for a 7-year-old girl and 10 other, equally high-energy kids in … wait for it … a candy store.

And not just any candy store. MJ’s Candy & Events in Dublin, which also boasts an ice-cream bar and a soda fountain, along with a floor-to-ceiling assortment of wildly colored M&Ms, a spinning powdered-sugar dispensary, exotic chocolates from Mexico, and more Swedish fish than the North Sea could hold.

But MJ’s owners, Jeff and Mary Shaffer, are parents themselves (of daughters, ages 12 and 8) and they know better. As become evident during Maci Picolo’s hour-and-a-half-long party one bright winter’s afternoon, the secret ingredient in this recipe was to hold off on the sugar consumption until the very end.

Until then, you just dazzle the kids with relay races, scavenger hunts, candy-themed games of Pictionary on a wall-sized blackboard, cupcake decorating and limbo.

“You really don’t need to do anything more than just keep moving and having fun,” explained Jeff, pointing out that crafts and drawing were also a big part of keeping the kids entertained.

“This is not his first time at the rodeo,” marveled Maci’s mother, Jennifer, as she and husband Dan watched Jeff calmly orchestrate the kids’ activities.

Jennifer said she discovered MJ’s on ColumbusParent.com while looking for birthday-party ideas. The shop, which opened in November 2007, has become an anchor in the Old Dublin Historic District, and its parties are a big part of MJ’s success (and they’re not limited to just birthday celebrations).

“It looked adorable and I showed her the options,” Jennifer said of their decision-making process, “and this was the one she chose. She has a sweet tooth just like her mother.”

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FUN WITH CANDY How many games can you play with candy but without actually eating any?

RELAY RACE: Take quarter-size gumballs, place them in a bowl and, using plastic spoons, transport them one by one, to a bowl in another room.

SCAVENGER HUNT: Jeff Shaffer uses pictures of different candies to prompt the kids to go find them in the store. The first team to get through all its pictures wins.

LIMBO: You know those long shoelace strings of licorice? They’re perfect for playing limbo with!

YOU’RE NEVER TOO OLD FOR CANDY The oldest birthday party kid has been an 18-yearold, said MJ’s owner Jeff Shaffer, who wanted one last kid-style blowout before adulthood arrived.

“With the older children,” added Mary Shaffer, “we will often do chocolate tastings.” The shop carries exotic chocolates with ingredients like chili pepper, sea salt and Earl Grey tea in them.

COST-CONSCIOUS CANDY CONSUMPTION MJ’s birthday parties cost $18 per child with a six-guest minimum and a 20-guest maximum. The price includes set-up, clean-up and an adult party leader, games, cupcakes with candy to decorate, Hershey’s ice cream, drinks, invitations and favor bags filled with candy that the guests can go “shopping” for. That was Maci Picolo’s favorite part, she said. Families are welcome to bring in pizza or other food.

MJ’S CANDY & EVENTS 72 N. High St., Dublin 614-336-8170 mjscandybar.com

columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

57

family fun: HANDS ON

A Snowy Day Collage

BY MARA MARCOM & OLIVERA BRATICH

Winter is the season for curling up together with a good book and a great craft project! This collage is fun for the whole family and centers around Ezra Jack Keats’ classic “A Snowy Day.” The beautifully illustrated book serves as the inspiration for your own snowy day collage, and it’s a great way to reuse any giftwrap paper scraps that are still lingering in the house.

WHAT YOU NEED: • a copy of “A Snowy Day” by Ezra Jack Keats • 1 piece of cardstock or thin cardboard, approximately 8.5 x 11 inches (the inside of a cereal box works great) • white tissue paper • scraps of leftover gift-wrapping paper, colorful envelopes or other festive pieces • scissors • glue (glue stick, Elmer’s school glue, or any other basic glue)

HOW YOU DO IT: 1. Read a copy of the book aloud with your children. The story and the illustrations will inspire you to create your own collage of snowy day activities.

2. Talk about the illustrations as well as the story, and think about the kind of snowy day activity you might want to portray in your collage. Snowman building, snowball fights, ice skating and sledding are all fun outdoor activities.

Choose one or two of your favorites!

3. Lay out your paper supplies and cardboard. The cardboard will serve as the base of your collage and the white tissue paper will be the snow. The other paper scraps

58

will be used to create background, landscapes and people. The nice thing about collage is that you can lay out your entire project before gluing anything down.

4. Start with the background. Cut or tear paper scraps for the sky and lay or glue them to your cardboard. Do the same with your white tissue paper as snow on the ground. Tissue paper can be crinkled to add texture; be sure to apply multiple layers to make sure the glue doesn’t make it transparent. (Hint: Tearing the tissue paper works just as well as cutting it with scissors.)

5. Take this opportunity to discuss depth and distance with your

| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

child — items that are far away in the picture should be smaller than items that are close by. Also, you can discuss how basic shapes like circles and rectangles can be put together to represent people and objects. Everything has a basic shape and sometimes just the shape can provide a beautiful representation of the object or person.

6. Glue the pieces of the collage down. Put the collage off to the side to dry. Most glues should be hardened within a few hours.

7. Hang your collage up near a window in your home and enjoy it while sipping on a fresh cup of hot cocoa!

WHO THOUGHT THIS UP MARA MARCOM is an elementary art educator with Dublin City Schools and the operator of MaraM, a line of eco-friendly bags and accessories. Her work can be found at Wholly Craft! and maram.etsy.com. Mara’s favorite snowy day activity is walking with her dogs.

OLIVER BRATICH is the owner of Wholly Craft! in Clintonville.

The shop features hip, handmade goods from more than 100 artists, including clothing, jewelry, accessories, and decor.

In addition to one-of-a-kind gifts, the shop offers craft classes for adults and teens.

For info, go to whollycraft.net.

The Baryshnikov of juggling -New York Times

The funniest circus act I’ve ever seen -Jay Leno, Tonight Show

HERE COMES SUMMER! Think differently.

“VOTED BEST SHOW IN VEGAS!” As Seen on Jay Leno, David Letterman, Animal Planet, CNN, & NBC

Creative Summer Workshops at CCAD 27 different one- and two-week adventures for first through twelfth grades.

Visit www.ccad.edu for all the details.

Registration opens March 1, 2011!

Saturday, February 12th Two shows 2:30 and 8:00 pm TICKETS 614-245-4701 www.mccoycenter.org SEASON SPONSOR

100 W. Dublin-Granville Rd New Albany, Ohio 43054

PROGRAM SPONSOR

Creative Summer Workshops are generously supported by

Kennel Club USA

columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

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family fun: DAY TRIPPIN’

Mad River

mountain

BY MITCH WAGNER Columbus Parent asked Mitch Wagner, 14, of Powell, for his expert advice on how to make the most of a day trip to Mad River Mountain (MRM), Central Ohio’s snow-sport destination:

INTRO TO MAD RIVER MOUNTAIN: • MRM has three parts: The Terrain is for the ski slopes (24 trails in all), which are used by skiers and snowboarders. Capital Park has a “terrain park” with the boxes, rails and jumps that snowboarders need for doing tricks, and Momentum Park is a beginner-level terrain park. Avalanche Tubing Park is for snow tubing.

• Capital Park is by far my favorite part of Mad River Mountain. It’s insane and was voted riders’ favorite park in the Midwest on the website OnTheSnow.com. They have a wide variety of features that change just about every Friday, with jumps and rails for just about any skill level.

• The lines to get on the lifts get pretty long when it’s really busy.

• I’ve seen parents with leashes attached to their kids, going down the difficult hills. What happens if they fall? I don’t know. I wouldn’t say age is as important as personality: How long can your kid stand the cold? Can they stand falling a little bit? What’s their interest level? They do have an adventure club group where beginner kids can learn to ski or snowboard with kids their age and abilities. So the parents could ski the difficult hills while their kids hang with the group.

FOOD ACQUISITION:

CROWD STRATEGY:

• There is a cafeteria with

• Crowds are heaviest usually on Fridays starting around 3

two seating areas and a wide variety of things: burgers, hotdogs, chicken sandwiches, soups, Hostess products, cold drinks, hot drinks and energy drinks. Prices are decent; for example, a cheeseburger costs $3.50.

• You can also bring your own food, which I recommend and often do. I usually take a sack lunch with a sandwich, pop and some snacks. But I suggest keeping it in your car so it’s not lost or taken.

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GETTING THERE: Take Rt. 33. Don’t try getting fancy driving there — it will just take you longer.

MAD RIVER MOUNTAIN 1000 Snow Valley Rd., Zanesfield 800-231-SNOW (7669) skimadriver.com

p.m., all day Saturday, and also on days of contests and “Rail Jam” events. And they’re occasionally busy on Sundays.

COST: varies widely by day, time and activities. For skiing and snowboarding, single-day lift tickets range from $20-$50 for children, ages 7-12, and from $30-$60 for adults. Ski and snowboard equipment can be rented, starting at $24. Children 6 and under are free with a paying adult.

• The lightest times are weekdays during the day and at night, Monday through Thursday.

• Most of the time, not all lifts are open on weekdays. The main ones are always open, but the others depend on the amount of people there.

DISPATCH/ALIVE FILE PHOTOS

TAKE A BREAK:

EQUIPMENT ACQUISITION:

You can take breaks just about anywhere in the lodge. I like the main sitting room in the cafeteria, which has a fireplace. There is also a store that some people visit while they’re taking breaks. They also have a loft that is mainly for adults, because they do serve alcoholic beverages. Some parents will bring their kids to Mad River to ski or snowboard, and the parents will sit in the lodge to read and relax.

They have a store where they sell clothing, along with screws and bolts for boards and helmets. They do not sell snowboards or skis, but they do rent them (see the information box). There is a shop called Adams that is right off the same exit and beside Mad River that does sell snowboards and ski gear. Also, a store called Black Sheep skate shop opened up nearby, and they also sell snowboards.

| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

For tubing, the price (which includes the tube) is $20 for children 12 and under, and $25 for adults. Packages and season passes also available.

CLASSES: Ski and snowboard lessons through MRM’s Learning Center range from $15-$80. Adaptive instruction for physically and mentally challenged children and adults also is available by reservation for $35.

family fun: PLAYGROUND PATROL

parent/child classes

preschool/ kindergarten gymnastics grade school gymnastics

They always leave a little taller.

The lessons your child learns at The Little Gym will fill you both with pride: How to reach higher. How to listen better.

How to tackle challenges with confidence and a smile.

sports skills development

dance

camp

Call to schedule a free introductory class.

Learn more at TheLittleGym.com.

Graeter’s Scoops & Shoots

DANIEL SOHNER PHOTO

Now Registering for Winter/Spring Semester.

Open Enrollment Year Round.

Polaris • www.TLGPolarisOH.com • 614-430-3355

birthday parties

parents’ survival night

BY KRISTEN MAETZOLD

You know from the moment you spot the towering black-raspberry ice cream cone that this indoor playground is anything but vanilla. The monster milk shake and the giant banana teeter-totter tip you off as well.

In business for 140 years, Graeter’s knows ice cream hands down, and apparently also has a leg up when it comes to burning a few of those calories — at least if you’re under the age of 10 and don’t mind running around in stocking feet.

Scoops & Shoots is located inside Graeter’s Bethel Road location. In addition to the aforementioned treats, there’s an ice-cream-cone-adorned crow’s nest with giant slides, plus a three-net free-throw area. But there are no rebound boards behind the basketball hoops — just a triple-scoop cone of “mint chocolate chunk” and a cherry on top.

Parents should appreciate some of the amenities kids might not notice, like the thickly-padded carpet, the ability to bring in your own food for lunches, and the fact that the entire playground is vacuumed and sanitized daily. The carpet is also steam-cleaned monthly.

Speaking of cleanliness — you may want to hold off on the ice cream until after playtime so you can avoid any “spilled milk,” if you know what I mean.

Plus, the promise of a single scoop was the single reason I was able to get my 2-year-old back out the door from the play area.

THE SCOOP • Scoops & Shoots is designed for kids 9 and younger.

• The play area is wheelchair accessible.

• Saturdays and Sundays are busiest.

• You can watch workers whipping up ice cream in the store’s kitchen Mondays through Thursdays.

• Guided ice cream tours are available for groups of 10 or more.

• Self-guided tours are fine with smaller groups.

• If you want to rent a party room, it’s best to call at least a month in advance.

• Don’t forget socks!

2555 Bethel Rd., Northwest Columbus 614-442-7622 graeters.com HOURS: 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 12-11 p.m. Sunday

BRRRTHDAY PARTIES ARE JUST COOLER HERE!

PARTIES INCLUDE: ICE SKATING • SKATE RENTAL BIRTHDAY TABLE w/PAPERWARE INVITATIONS • FOOD & DRINKS CAKE & ICE CREAM CHILLER T-SHIRT FOR BIRTHDAY CHILD BIRTHDAY HOST(ESS) SET UP & CLEAN UP ADULTS SKATE FOR FREE (JUST $15 PER CHILD!)

TO SCHEDULE YOUR PARTY CONTACT THE BIRTHDAY SPECIALISTS: 614-791-9999 x323 BIRTHDAYS@THECHILLER.COM WWW.THECHILLER.COM THE CHILLER ICE RINKS HOST BIRTHDAY PARTIES THAT YOUR CHILD WILL NEVER FORGET! AND, WE DO ALL THE WORK SO YOU DON'T HAVE TO! columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

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family fun: MEDIA REVIEWS

“The Strange Case of Origami Yoda”

s k o o b S FOR

KID

by Tom Angleberger Origami Yoda can’t really see the future or use the Force … right? Sixth-grader Tommy doesn’t know if he should take Origami Yoda’s advice, because to make the wrong decision would mean “total humiliation.” From asking a girl to dance, embarrassing water-stained pants, being a gym-class hero, to who will win American Idol, Yoda tells all. Tommy sets out to discover the truth about Origami Yoda’s Ages powers, even if that means getting close to 9-12 oddball Dwight, the guy who carries Origami Yoda around on his finger. Reluctant readers and fans of the Wimpy Kid series will get a kick out of this hilarious book.

“Brontorina”

Toddler through 4 years.

“Tuck Me In!”

by Dean Hacohen It’s time for bed, and baby pig, zebra and even hedgehog need to be tucked in for the night. Younger children will delight in turning the pages to tuck each baby animal in bed. Colorful, warm and cozy, this book is a perfect bedtime ritual for you and your little one.

“The Wonderful Book”

by Leonid Gore One sunny day in the forest, Ages 3-8 something wonderful is found.

Could it be a house for Rabbit, a hat for Bear, a table for Mice, a bed for Fox, or lunch for Worm? In this silly and delightful story, only a little boy can bring the quarreling animals together to show them just how wonderful this something is. Ages 3-8.

— REBECCA SCHMELZER, YOUTH SERVICES LEADER, NORTHSIDE BRANCH OF THE COLUMBUS METROPOLITAN LIBRARY

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

Ages 4-8

by James Howe Poor Brontorina. Everyone says that she is too big, and doesn’t have the right shoes. Even though on the outside she is a dinosaur, Brontorina knows that in her heart she is a ballerina.

Through smashed ceilings, hurt feelings, and supportive friends, this heartwarming story inspires children to not let naysayers stand between them and their dreams.

“Pop” Suitable for teens

by Gordon Korman “Pop” is the sound that happens when you slam your football helmet into someone else during a hard tackle. Moving to a new town and changing schools is never easy, and 16-year-old Marcus has trouble fitting in to the established football team at his new school. Marcus can’t believe his luck when he becomes friends and workout buddies with Charlie, an ex-NFL star. Everything changes when the truth comes out about Charlie — the truth that his son, the high school starting quarterback, is desperate to hide.

Will Marcus risk everything to remain loyal to his friend? This fast paced, action-packed book is a must guy-read and for any sports fan.

WEB SITE

GAMES “Epic Mickey” Where do forgotten cartoon characters go? Mickey Mouse returns to video games in this timeless tale of finding lost friends.

Specially created for the Wii, Disney’s Epic Mickey is a fun 3D game that allows players to interact with the world using thinner and paint to rebuild or destroy. Don’t look carefully though or you might notice there’s also some morality in the story involving how our actions affect others in ways we might not expect. Rated E for Everyone, $50 for Wii.

teens.columbuslibrary.org CML’s website just for teens. Find a teen blog, book reviews and fun stuff to keep the boredom away. Kick back and enjoy the movies our very own teens made this past summer for the VolunTeen Film Project! —REBECCA SCHMELZER

FAMILY APPS “3D Storybook — The Wrong Side of the Bed in 3D” This app is two storybooks in one for you and your child. It’s the story of little Mott Turner who wakes up on the wrong side of the bed and ends up on the ceiling. This charming tale alone might justify the app’s $2.99 price tag, but this one offers more. The graphics can be displayed in 2D or 3D (you’ll need red/cyan glasses to enjoy the effect). Parents can read the tale to their children or this app has a voice that will read to them if you or they prefer. Also available for $1.99 on the iPhone/iPod.

“Ragdoll Blaster — A Physics Puzzler” If firing ragdolls out of cannons seems like fun, this app for the iPhone/iPod will keep you challenged for weeks. It comes with more than 100 levels of play to challenge you and your children. You fire at targets such as superhammers and moving asteroids, and the ragdolls will fly according to the laws of physics. This is one of those games that are easy to play and hard to perfect your skills. You can try the free Ragdoll Blaster Lite with its 18 levels to see if this is the game for you.

“Nat Geo Challenge: Wild Life!”

National Geographic brings a family title to Sony’s system that uses the outstanding nature footage of its library while offering competitive and team based trivia challenges, virtual puzzles and other fun activities.

Built to make the animal lovers in the house very happy, Wild Life also includes lots of great learning opportunities for everyone. Rated E for Everyone, $50 for PlayStation 3.

—SHAWN SINES

MUSIC “MEET THE SQUEEGEES” (available only at Target) This CD encapsulates so much of what irks me about children’s music nowadays: great tunes, wonderful voices, well-played and simple arrangements — and lyrics that make you want to puncture your ear drums. Granted, it’s not all the lyrics. About 70 percent of the time, this trio gets it right with simple, repetitive lyrics like “Red, red, red means stop, stop, stop.” It helps the folk-rock tunes go down easy. But when they throw in preachy clunkers like “pedestrians have the right of way” or “antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, all chopped up in a bowl,” it makes me wish the songwriters would spend an afternoon with a 3 year old. There’s solid musical potential here, but the SqueeGees need to better understand their pint-sized audience.

—JANE HAWES

—PHIL PIKELNY

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january 2011

OUT&ABOUT SATURDAY 1

SUNDAY 2

Alum Creek Fantasy of Lights Annual two-mile scenic light extravaganza featuring over a million lights, with more than 135 themed light displays ranging from animation to a gigantic American flag. Visitors can also visit the Marina Boat House where everyone is invited to warm up with free cookies and hot chocolate. All proceeds from the photos, along with a portion of the gate admission, will benefit Recreation Unlimited. Each year, Recreation Unlimited (through its programs and services, including its well-known summer camp) serves thousands of youth and adults with physical and mental disabilities. 5:30-10:30 p.m. $15. Alum Creek Marina, 4000 Hollenback Rd. 740-548-6056. alumcreek.com.

Alum Creek Fantasy of Lights Annual two-mile scenic light extravaganza featuring over a million lights, with more than 135 themed light displays ranging from animation to a gigantic American flag. 5:30-9:30 p.m. $15.

Alum Creek Marina, 4000 Hollenback Rd. 740-548-6056. alumcreek.com.

Fur, Fins & Feathers Through June 5, 2011. Tues-Sun, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Extended Thursday hours until 8:30 p.m. $5/$10. Columbus Museum of Art, 480 E. Broad St., Discovery District. 614221-4848. columbusmuseum.org.

Holidays at the Conservatory A Central Ohio tradition, Holidays at the Conservatory will be merry and bright with hundreds of poinsettias, the traditional ten-foot poinsettia tree, a Paul Busse music box garden railway, the fourth annual gingerbread competition, Wednesday Candlelight Nights, and more. Wednesdays until 8 p.m. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free with Conservatory admission ($6-$11; Free for children under three). Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East.

614-645-8733. fpconservatory.org.

New Year’s Day Hike Get 2011 off to a great start while enjoying nature’s beauty and getting some exercise during a 1.7-mile hike. Enjoy hot drinks and cookies in the parking lot afterward. 10 a.m.noon. Free. Char-Mar Ridge Preserve, 7741 Lewis Center Rd., Delaware. 740524-8600, ext. 5. preservationparks.com.

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Columbus Babywearing Learn more about babywearing. We have carriers you can try and borrow for a deposit. Please bring any questions and carriers to share.

10:15-11:50 a.m. Sprout Soup, 4310 N. High St., Clintonville. 614-846-4827.

Holidays at the Conservatory A Central Ohio tradition, Holidays at the Conservatory will be merry and bright with hundreds of poinsettias, the traditional ten-foot poinsettia tree, a Paul Busse music box garden railway, the fourth annual gingerbread competition, Wednesday Candlelight Nights, and more. Wednesdays until 8 p.m. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free with Conservatory admission ($6-$11; Free for children under three). Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East.

614-645-8733.

MONDAY 3 Holidays at the Conservatory 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free with Conservatory admission ($6-$11; Free for children under three). Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East.

614-645-8733.

Story Times: Music & Movement (25 years) No registration required. 11:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview.

614-481-3778. ghpl.org.

TUESDAY 4 Holidays at the Conservatory 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free with Conservatory

| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

admission ($6-$11; Free for children under three). Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East.

614-645-8733.

Home School Investigations: Helping Wildlife in Winter Join other home school students in an exploration of our natural world. Each 90minute session includes hands-on science study correlated with the Ohio Academic Content Standards for Science. Sessions are for ages 6-10. 9-10 a.m. $3 per child. Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd. 800-44-DAWES. dawesarb.org.

Story Times: Tales for Toddlers (1836 months) 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

WEDNESDAY 5 La Leche League of Gahanna La Leche League of Gahanna is reactivating. Mothers with their nurslings, and mothers-to-be interested in breastfeeding, are welcome to attend. 7 p.m.

Free. Columbus Metropolitan Library Gahanna, 310 Granville St., Gahanna.

614-269-7181. llli.org.

Story Times: Baby Games (6-17 months) 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

Story Times: Family Story Time (2-5 years) 7-7:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

THURSDAY 6 Columbus Children’s Theatre: Alice in Wonderland Colorful, fast-paced introduction to the classic story Lewis Carroll combining fantasy and adventure with elements of tragedy, comedy, madness, and absurdity. 7:30 p.m. $10-$18. Park Street Theatre, 512 N. Park St., Arena District. 614-224-6672.

DORAL CHENOWETH III/DISPATCH

COLUMBUS ZOO AND AQUARIUM Saturdays and Sundays, 1 p.m. — Watch the diver feed the fish in the Discovery Reef!

Saturdays and Sundays, 2:30 p.m. — It’s time to feed the manatees in the Manatee Coast exhibit.

Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.-12 noon — Kids, ages 13-17, can work as a Keeper for a Day through this exciting educational program at the Zoo. They get to tour the Zoo grounds with a Zoo professional and participate in the daily animal care routine of some of the Education Department’s small mammals, reptiles, and arthropods. A maximum of 5 students per day can be accommodated and you must pre-register. Cost is $65/person for Zoo Members and $75/person for non-Zoo members. Call Kellie Walker at 614-724-3626 or email her at Kellie.walker@columbuszoo.org.

Friday, Jan. 21 — Homeschooled students, ages 10 and older, can participate in a live videoconference with the Alaska Sea Life Center. Roll up your sleeves and analyze sea lion scat as we learn about the hands-on way scientists study these animals’ diets. The program runs from 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. and costs $10 per student. To register for the program, call 614-645-3488 or email homeschool@columbuszoo.org.

www.columbuszoo.org

BALLETMET DANCERS JON DRAKE AND ADRIENNE BENZ

Share this happily ever after with your whole family!

Production Sponsor:

FEBRUARY 4–13, 2011 | CAPITOL THEATRE WWW.TICKETMASTER.COM OR 800.982.2787 | CAPA BOX OFFICE 614.469.0939 | WWW.BALLETMET.ORG Design: Peebles Creative Group Photography: Will Shively

columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

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jan 2011 Music Together for Big Kids Children ages five through seven (and their parents)are invited to make music in a challenging, yet fun-filled setting.

Musical games, singing and instrument play are a part of each class. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Music and Movement Centre, 1890 Northwest Blvd., Upper Arlington. 614-327-1534. bloommusicandmovement.com.

Preschool Open House Evaluate several area programs under one roof as preschools from Westerville, Lewis Center, Sunbury and surrounding areas will share information about their schools. There is no fee, but please bring a canned or boxed food item for donation to the local food pantry. 6:308 p.m. Free with a donation of a canned or boxed food item. Westerville Parks and Recreation Department, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville. 614901-6500. westerville.org.

FRIDAY 7 Columbus Children’s Theatre: Alice in Wonderland Colorful, fast-paced introduction to the classic story Lewis Carroll combining fantasy and adventure with elements of tragedy, comedy, madness, and absurdity. 10 a.m. & 7:30 p.m. $10-$18. Park Street Theatre, 512 N. Park St., Arena District. 614-2246672.

First Friday Movies How about catching a hot new DVD release on the big screen at the library? Bring your

best buddy and a snack if you wish! No registration required. For grades K-5.

3:15-5 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview.

614-486-2951. ghpl.org.

Free HIV Testing Kick-off Ohio teens affected with HIV/AIDS is on the rise, and the Family AIDS Clinic and Educational Services (FACES) at Nationwide Children’s Hospital is doing something about it! In support of the health and wellness of all the children in our community, the FACES clinic is providing a free testing center. Teens are encouraged to come in and get tested. No appointment needed. Counselors will be available, and results return the same day. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Nationwide Children’s Hospital, 700 Childrens Dr., Olde Towne East. 614-722-6060 option 9.

Preservation Parks presents Starry Night Discover the night sky as we assemble take-home star wheels and create a red lens filter for your flashlight. We’ll also head outdoors for star viewing (if there are no clouds). Bring your own flashlight. 6:30-9 p.m. free.

Deer Haven Preserve, 4183 Liberty Rd., Delaware. 740-524-8600, ext. 3. preservationparks.com.

Toddler Time Join us for a morning of fun and play. Take advantage of a variety of large and fine motor skills equipment. Arts and crafts will be available.

This program will benefit your child by increasing social skills and encouraging family involvement. Every child (or family of children) must be accompanied by an adult. Ages kindergarten and under with parent. Children up to six months old are allowed at no charge. Frequent visitor cards can be purchased at the front desk of the Community Center. 9:30-11:30 a.m. $3

per child per visit; Cards: $15 for 6 visits. Westerville Parks and Recreation Department, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville. 614-901-6500. westerville.org.

SATURDAY 8 PBJ & Jazz Series: Sean Carney The Jazz Arts Group of Columbus is pleased to return to the Lincoln Theatre for the 2011 season of the Jazz Academy’s PBJ & Jazz concert series. One-hour long, the interactive concerts are designed to introduce jazz and American music to young children and their families.

Featuring some of Columbus’ finest musicians and ensembles, the concerts are hosted by former Columbus Music Hall owner (and retired music educator), Rebecca Ogden. Sean Carney, a Columbus native, is a legendary blues guitarist whose passion for the blues and talent has led him to an incredibly successful career. Carney was awarded the Albert King Best Guitarist Award in 2007 by the International Blues Challenge, and he’s also served three terms as the president of the Columbus Blues Alliance. In 2007 he decided to use his talents to found the Blues for a Cure to raise money for cancer research. 11 a.m.-noon. $5 each ($20 family max).

Jazz Academy at Lincoln Theatre, 769 E. Long St., King Lincoln. 614-294-5200. jazzartsgroup.org.

Youth Service Academy Project Leader Training In honor of MLK Day, local youth volunteers are being recruited for the Youth Service Academy. The Youth Service Academy will launch on January 17th with a day of service projects, including food drives, inspirational art, discussions about the impact and legacy of Dr. King, and

ENCYCLOPEDIA BROWN Jan. 7-21 — The Phoenix Theatre for Children performs the family-friendly mystery play, “Encyclopedia Brown,” during January in the Riffe Center’s Studio One Theatre.

Didn’t devour the books as a kid? Well, here’s what you need to know: The residents of Idaville have given teenager Leroy Brown the nickname of “Encyclopedia” because of his acute skill in deductive reasoning. Sometimes he assists his father, the local police chief, in solving difficult cases, but mostly he practices the art of detection in the family garage assisting his friends in unraveling mysteries. Using a game show format, this production challenges individual audience members to match wits with the genius boy detective.

For dates and times, or to buy tickets ($19.50 plus a $3.50 service), call the CATCO box office at 614-469-0939, or go to Ticketmaster.com.

Make Music Today!

New student lesson package includes books, registration, and first 4 private lessons.

All for only $125!

To expertly develop the musician in everyone through joyful music education!

614-777-4405

3960-F Brown Park Drive, Hilliard, OH 43026

allegrostudios@hotmail.com

www.allegro-studios.com

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

• Guitar • Piano • Voice • Private and group lessons available for pre-school to adults

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SAWMILL PLAZA

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MARBURN ACADEMY

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ADMISSION OPEN HOUSE For prospective students and their parents

Sunday, January 30, 2011 1:00-4:00 pm • Grades 1-12 Orton-Gillingham accredited Tour the school • Meet the teachers RSVP required; bdavidson@marburnacademy.org or 614-433-0822

“Early Identification and Ea Intervention of Reading Pr rly oblems: Why Wait for Failure?”

A Marburn Academy Free Community Parent Se

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RSVP required; bdavidson@ marburnacademy.org or 614-433-0822

Celebrating 29 years of innovation in education for bright students with ADHD & Dyslexia. marburnacademy.org columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

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jan 2011 The Gardner School, an award-winning academically focused preschool for ages 6 weeks through private kindergarten.

The Gardner School of Dublin 6145 Emerald Parkway Dublin, OH 43016 Phone: (614) 717-9677

www.TheGardnerSchool.com

Are you a busy parent who needs time to RUN ERRANDS - ATTEND APPOINTMENTS - OR HAVE A DATE NIGHT?

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We offer an hourly drop off child care program for children 8 weeks to 10 yrs. Children can play, socialize, learn and explore for an hour or the whole day.

Bring In This Coupon

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Polaris

Full-Time Infant Room (No Contracts)

1343 Cameron Ave. off Polaris Pkwy.

614-436-6306

Dublin/Hilliard 5601 Woerner Temple Rd. Corner of Emerald Pkwy.

614-790-9970

www.mangosplace.com 68

Discount for Set Schedule For parents working part-time or split shifts

NOW ENROLLING FOR FALL PRESCHOOL 2011!

Our unique features are: • No Potty Training Requirements • Before and After Care • Siblings can stay in our Drop in program

| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

much more. 10 a.m.-noon. Free. King Arts Complex, 867 Mt. Vernon Ave., King Lincoln. 614-221-6766. handsoncentralohio.org.

MONDAY 10 Pee Wee Play Gym Join us for a morning of fun and play. A wide variety of large and fine motor skills equipment will be available. This program will benefit your child by increasing social skills and encouraging family involvement.

Every child (or family of children) must be accompanied by an adult. Ages three and under with parent. Children up to six months old are allowed at no charge.

Frequent visitor cards can be purchased at the front desk of the Community Center. 9:30-11:30 a.m. $3 per child per visit; Cards: $15 for 6 visits. Westerville Parks and Recreation Department, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville. 614-9016500. westerville.org.

Storybook Science: Winter Fun Explore quality children’s literature in a natural setting. Each 45-minute session includes songs, games, crafts, creative movement, outdoor exploration, and hands-on science. Suitable for young scientists ages 3-5. 1 p.m. Free. Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd. 740-323-2355. dawesarb.org.

Story Times: Music & Movement (25 years) No registration required. 11:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview.

614-481-3778.

TUESDAY 11 Family Arts and Crafts Share creative time together with your child doing arts and crafts. This program is designed for families with preschoolers to come enjoy quality time building and exploring different types of arts and crafts. For children ages five and under with parent. 6-7:30 p.m. Free. Westerville Parks and Recreation Department, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville. 614-9016500. westerville.org.

dren up to five years in age in the following areas: gross motor, fine-motor, speech, language and personal/social skills. ECRN follows up with families who may need assistance in finding resources in the community. Hearing screenings are also available, as well as vision screenings for children over the age of three. 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free.

Grove City YMCA, 3600 Discovery Dr., Grove City. 614-543-9000 ext. 216.

Story Times: Baby Games (6-17 months) 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

Story Times: Family Story Time (2-5 years) 7-7:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

THURSDAY 13 Columbus Children’s Theatre: Alice in Wonderland Colorful, fast-paced introduction to the classic story Lewis Carroll combining fantasy and adventure with elements of tragedy, comedy, madness, and absurdity. 7:30 p.m. $10-$18. Park Street Theatre, 512 N. Park St., Arena District. 614-224-6672.

St. Michael School Kindergarten Coffee Come see what St. Michael School has to offer your child. Learn about the curriculum, full-or half-day programs, tour the school, and enjoy a question and answer session with refreshments. Baby sitting is available; reservations are recommended. 9:3011 a.m. & 7-8:30 p.m. Free. St. Michael School, 64 E. Selby Blvd. 614-885-3149. stmichael.cdeducation.org.

Storybook Science: Signs of Winter Tracks Explore quality children’s literature in a natural setting. Each 45minute session includes songs, games, crafts, creative movement, outdoor exploration, and hands-on science.

Suitable for young scientists ages 3-5.

10 a.m. & 1 p.m. Free. Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd. 740-3232355. dawesarb.org.

FRIDAY 14

WEDNESDAY 12

Broadway Across America: Stomp The award-winning, eight-member troupe returns to Columbus to fill the stage with creatively magnificent sounds, utilizing everyday items ranging from brooms, garbage bins and matchboxes to hubcaps and Zippo lighters. Appropriate (and fun) for all ages. 8 p.m. $23-$133. Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St., Downtown. 800-7453000.

Child Check Offered by the Early Childhood Resource Network for chil-

Columbus Children’s Theatre: Alice in Wonderland 10 a.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Story Times: Tales for Toddlers (1836 months) 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

$10-$18. Park Street Theatre, 512 N. Park St., Arena District. 614-224-6672.

Free HIV Testing Kick-off Ohio teens affected with HIV/AIDS is on the rise, and the Family AIDS Clinic and Educational Services (FACES) at Nationwide Children’s Hospital is doing something about it! In support of the health and wellness of all the children in our community, the FACES clinic is providing a free testing center. Teens are encouraged to come in and get tested. No appointment needed. Counselors will be available, and results return the same day. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Nationwide Children’s Hospital, 700 Childrens Dr., Olde Towne East. 614-722-6060 option 9.

Toddler Time Join us for a morning of fun and play. A variety of large and fine motor skills equipment will be available, along with arts and crafts activities. This program will benefit your child by increasing social skills and encouraging family involvement. Every child (or family of children) must be accompanied by an adult. Ages kindergarten and under with parent. Children up to six months old are allowed at no charge. Frequent visitor cards can be purchased at the front desk of the Community Center. 9:30-11:30 a.m. $3 per child per visit; Cards: $15 for 6 visits. Westerville Parks and Recreation Department, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville. 614-901-6500. westerville.org.

Wise About Eyes Traveling Children’s Exhibit Wise About Eyes is a unique exhibit that teaches children how to protect their vision and keep their eyes safe. Made possible by Prevent Blindness Ohio and the Ohio Department of Health, the traveling exhibit is comprised of multiple kiosks educating children on the importance of sight, the inner workings of the eye and how we see, why people need glasses, what a world without site would be like, and how to take care of our eyes. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Children: $3; Adults: $7; Seniors: $5. The Works, 55 S. First St. 740-349-9277. attheworks.org.

SATURDAY 15 Broadway Across America: Stomp The award-winning, eight-member troupe returns to Columbus to fill the stage with creatively magnificent sounds, utilizing everyday items ranging from brooms, garbage bins and matchboxes to hubcaps and Zippo lighters. Appropriate (and fun) for all ages. 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. $23-$133. Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St., Downtown.

800-745-3000.

Columbus School for Girls • 56 S. Columbia Avenue • Columbus, OH 43209 • 614.252.0781 •

Columbus School for Girls, continuing a 100 year tradition of excellence, provides a superior college preparatory education within a diverse and caring community that emphasizes leadership development in an atmosphere of moral and social responsibility.

Challenge Character Community

Full Member School with the American Montessori Society

Our Montessori program will teach your child to observe, to think, and to analyze.

Ages 2.5 - 6 years • Preschool and Kindergarten Established 1988 Introducing the joy of learning at an early age provides a solid foundation to last a lifetime.

10465 Sawmill Rd, Powell, OH • 614-761-2020

www.dublinmontessori.com

ADMISSION OPEN HOUSE Thursday, January 13 • 9:00 am Schedule a student visiting day January26 • 7:50 am - 2:45 pm

Hunan • Szechwan • Mandarin

Call our Admission Office to schedule an individual tour 614.252.0781

SUNDAY BUFFET

discover more about our school at columbusschoolforgirls.org

ALL YOU CAN EAT $11.95 • 11AM-8PM

35 GREAT AUTHENTIC CHINESE DISHES TO CHOOSE FROM! OUR FOOD SPEAKS FOR ITSELF - NO MSG ADDED

CARRY-OUT DINNERS 10% OFF!

North 1930 E., Dublin-Granville Rd., 1 Mile East Of I-71

(614) 523-2008 columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

69

Urgent Need, Urgent Care Affordable Cost

You should see the other guy!

The Animal Hospital of Polaris is open, available and equipped to treat your sick or injured pet.

Did you know?

• Our services cost 1/3 less than local dedicated emergency facilities • Our Vets have extensive experience working in emergency-only practices • We’re staffed to provide 24-hour, on-site care

Come visit our vaccine Clinic (3rd Sunday of every month) from 1-4pm.

20% OFF

20% OFF

Boarding for new clients only

Grooming for new clients only

Offer can not be combined with any other offers.

1 per customer. Exp: 4/1/2011

Offer can not be combined with any other offers.

1 per customer. Exp: 4/1/2011

Open M-F 7:30am - 10pm; Sat. 8am - 8pm; and Sun. 10am - 8pm Call 614-888-4050 • www.animalhospitalofpolaris.com

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

jan 2011 Story Times: Saturday Story Stomp (2-5 years) No registration required.

11-11:30 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

The Orchid Forest 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-6458733. fpconservatory.org.

SUNDAY 16 Broadway Across America: Stomp The award-winning, eight-member troupe returns to Columbus to fill the stage with creatively magnificent sounds, utilizing everyday items ranging from brooms, garbage bins and matchboxes to hubcaps and Zippo lighters. Appropriate (and fun) for all ages. 1 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. $23-$133.

Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St., Downtown. 800-745-3000.

The Orchid Forest Take a winter escape to the Franklin Park Conservatory for a journey of the senses. In an explosion of shapes, colors, textures and scents supplied by the hundreds of orchid blooms in the Conservatory’s Rainforest biome and Showhouse, The Orchid Forest promises to transport guests from Ohio’s snowy winter to the warm tropics.

Extended Wednesday hours until 8 p.m.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two. Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614645-8733. fpconservatory.org.

MONDAY 17 Crossing the Cultural Divide The City of Westerville has evolved into a very diverse community welcoming families from many different countries. As a way of celebrating our diversity, this cultural event will highlight food tastings from various countries, crafts and informational displays provided by Otterbein University students, plus entertainment such as Celtic Chinese dancers and African drummers. Come celebrate and foster growth of diversity in Westerville.

11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Westerville Parks and Recreation Department, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville. 614-9016500. westerville.org.

Pee Wee Play Gym Join us for a morning of fun and play. A wide variety of large and fine motor skills equipment will be available. This program will benefit your child by increasing social skills and encouraging family involvement. Every child (or family of children) must be accompanied by an adult. Ages three and under with parent. Children up to six months old are allowed at no charge. Frequent visitor cards can be purchased at the front desk of the Community Center. 9:3011:30 a.m. $3 per child per visit; Cards: $15 for 6 visits. Westerville Parks and Recreation Department, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville. 614-901-6500. westerville.org.

Story Times: Music & Movement (25 years) No registration required.11:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview.

614-481-3778. ghpl.org.

The Orchid Forest 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-6458733. fpconservatory.org.

Wise About Eyes Traveling Children’s Exhibit Wise About Eyes is a unique exhibit that teaches children how to protect their vision and keep

their eyes safe. Made possible by Prevent Blindness Ohio and the Ohio Department of Health, the traveling exhibit is comprised of multiple kiosks educating children on the importance of sight, the inner workings of the eye and how we see, why people need glasses, what a world without site would be like, and how to take care of our eyes. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Children: $3; Adults: $7; Seniors: $5. The Works, 55 S. First St. 740-349-9277. attheworks.org.

TUESDAY 18 Home School Investigations: Who’s Been Here? Tracks & Traces Join other home school students in an exploration of our natural world. Each 90-minute session includes hands-on science study correlated with the Ohio Academic Content Standards for Science. Sessions are for ages 6-10. 9-10 a.m. $3 per child. Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd. 740-323-2355. dawesarb.org.

Story Times: Tales for Toddlers (1836 months) 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

The Orchid Forest 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two. Franklin

Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-645-8733.

Wise About Eyes Traveling Children’s Exhibit 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Children: $3; Adults: $7; Seniors: $5. The Works, 55 S. First St. 740-349-9277. attheworks.org.

WEDNESDAY 19 Story Times: Baby Games (6-17 months) 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

Story Times: Family Story Time (2-5 years) 7-7:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

The Orchid Forest 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-6458733.

Wise About Eyes Traveling Children’s Exhibit 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Children: $3; Adults: $7; Seniors: $5 (ASTC Passport members: general admission). The Works, 55 S. First St. 740-349-9277. attheworks.org.

THURSDAY 20 The Orchid Forest Take a winter escape to the Franklin Park Conservatory for a journey of the senses. In an explosion of shapes, colors, textures and scents supplied by the hundreds of orchid blooms in the Conservatory’s Rainforest biome and Showhouse, The Orchid Forest promises to transport guests from Ohio’s snowy winter to the warm tropics. Extended Wednesday hours until 8 p.m. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-6458733. fpconservatory.org.

Wise About Eyes Traveling Children’s Exhibit Wise About Eyes is a unique exhibit that teaches children about how to protect their vision and keep their eyes safe. Made possible by Prevent Blindness Ohio and the Ohio Department of Health, the traveling exhibit is comprised of multiple kiosks educating children on the importance of sight, the inner workings of the eye and how we see, why people need glasses, what a world without site would be like, and how to take care of our eyes. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Children: $3; Adults: $7; Seniors: $5. The Works, 55 S. First St. 740-349-9277. attheworks.org.

FRIDAY 21 AAA Great Vacations EXPO Third annual event offering central Ohio consumers information and Expo-only deals, including excellent travel values on everything from exotic cruises and European vacations to affordable

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT To add an event to Columbus Parent Magazine’s Out & About calendar, submit information by email to calendar@columbusparent.com or online at ColumbusParent.com.

Please submit calendar events by the 7th day of the preceding month.

In & Out in 30 Minutes!

Locally owned and operated

Open 8am-8pm Everyday Flu Shots Available

For $20

5263 Nike Station Way, Hilliard Hilliard Station Shopping Center off Hilliard-Rome Rd. behind Key Bank

(614) 876-2100 www.expressmedcenters.com

columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

71

r u o y e r i p s Let us in r a e Y w e N child in&tghee tion!* t free registra Enroll now

www.lapetite.com

La Petite Academy® has been inspiring children for over 40 years. Our high quality early education programs are individually designed for children 6 weeks to 12 years*.

Let us start inspiring your child today.

Enroll now and get FREE REGISTRATION!*

Call 877-217-9537

to locate a school near you and to schedule a visit. *Programs and hours of operation vary by school. See school for details. Offer is for free registration for new enrollees only. Offer is valid on a space-available basis for all age groups. Offer is not redeemable or refundable for cash. Offer available only to those accounts when full tuition is paid in advance. Limit one coupon per child. One time use. Family must enroll for a minimum of three half-days per week and must not have been previously enrolled at a Learning Care Group school. Learning Care Group is not responsible for and cannot replace or redeem lost, stolen, destroyed or expired coupons. Offer not valid for Learning Care Group associates or their immediate families. Offer valid at participating locations and subject to availability. Offer does not guarantee enrollment. Offer expires March 31, 2011. Code: WE11 FreeReg

Sports should make you smile. We know how to do that. :-)

MD MORGAN/DISPATCH PHOTO

TWINKLE, TWINKLE, LITTLE STAR! Fridays, Jan. 7, 14, 21 and 28 — Do you know about Ohio Wesleyan University’s Perkins Observatory, just south of Delaware on Rt. 23? Well, if not, it’s a flat-out gorgeous, small observatory with tons of family-friendly, public programming all year. On Friday nights in January, the Observatory hosts evening programs, beginning at 8 p.m.

Content varies based on sky conditions, but may include a planetarium show, observatory tours, and star gazing with the 32-inch Schottland Telescope.

Advance tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for children and senior citizens (the talks by super-enthusiastic Observatory director Tom Burns are alone worth the price of admission).

Call 740-363-1257 for reservations (call early because they fill up quickly). Perkins Observatory is located at 3199 Columbus Pike, Delaware.

We grow smiles in all sorts of sports like baseball, volleyball, lacrosse, football, basketball and more. You pick the sport and we’ll make the smile!

Our indoor programs start as early as 2 years old & keep on smilin’ from there. Visit www.fieldsports.org to register your child for smiles or call (614) 791-7849.

jan 2011 at

6400 Dublin Park Drive, Dublin, OH • 614-791-7849 • www.fieldsports.org

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

escapes close to home. With more than 150 exhibits, attractions and events, the Expo is a destination in itself as favorite travel spots come alive with interactive events, along with experiences that are entertaining, helpful and educational. Samantha

Brown, the inspiring and popular host of several programs on the Travel Channel, will share her travel experiences with AAA Great Vacations EXPO guests on Sunday, January 23 at 12 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. 12-5 p.m. $4 and $8. Children ages 16 and under, free.

Franklin County Veterans Memorial, 300 W. Broad St., Downtown. 614-8488380. aaagreatvacations.com.

Free Testing Kick-off 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Free. Nationwide Children’s Hospital, 700 Childrens Dr., Olde Towne East.

614-722-6060 option 9.

The Orchid Forest 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-6458733. fpconservatory.org.

Toddler Time Join us for a morning of fun and play. A variety of large and fine motor skills equipment will be available, along with arts and crafts projects. This program will benefit your child by increasing social skills and encouraging family involvement. Every child (or family of children) must be accompanied by an

adult. Ages kindergarten and under with parent. Children up to six months old are allowed at no charge. Frequent visitor cards can be purchased at the front desk of the Community Center. 9:30-11:30 a.m. $3 per child per visit. Westerville Parks and Recreation Department, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville. 614-9016500. westerville.org.

Wise About Eyes Traveling Children’s Exhibit 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Children: $3; Adults: $7; Seniors: $5. The Works, 55 S. First St. 740-349-9277. attheworks.org.

SATURDAY 22 AAA Great Vacations EXPO Third annual event offering central Ohio consumers information and Expo-only deals, including excellent travel values on everything from exotic cruises and European vacations to affordable escapes close to home. With more than 150 exhibits, attractions and events, the Expo is a destination in itself as favorite travel spots come alive with interactive events, along with experiences that are entertaining, helpful and educational.

Samantha Brown, the inspiring and popular host of several programs on the Travel Channel, will share her travel experiences with AAA Great Vacations EXPO guests on Sunday, January 23 at 12 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. 12-5 p.m. $4 and $8. Children ages 16 and under, free.

Franklin County Veterans Memorial, 300 W. Broad St., Downtown. 614-8488380. aaagreatvacations.com.

Cabin Fever Reliever Get out of the house and have some winter fun! We will have entertainment, crafts and activities for you and your preschooler to enjoy. Break the monotony of everyday with this great winter class.

Designed for ages six and under. 3-5 p.m. $3 per child. Westerville Parks and Recreation Department, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville. 614-901-6500. westerville.org.

Hilliard Area Preschool Fair Hosted

by Hilliard Parks & Recreation. 9-11 a.m.

Roger Reynolds Municipal Park, 3800 Memorial Dr., Hilliard. 614-876-5200. hilliardohio.gov.

Kai-Lan AAA Great Vacations EXPO will host Nickelodeon’s favorite bi-lingual, bi-cultural preschooler, Kai-Lan. Kai-Lan will be on hand to meet guests and pose for pictures with fans. Special events run throughout the day where kids can experience an incredible lineup of activities, events and workshops.

10 a.m.-8 p.m. $9; $6 for AAA members. Children ages 16 and under: free.

Franklin County Veterans Memorial, 300 W. Broad St., Downtown. 614-2214341. aaagreatvacations.com.

The Orchid Forest 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-6458733. fpconservatory.org.

Creature Feature: Silent Hunters of the Night During the first monthly program featuring Ohio wildlife, we’ll focus on those agile and silent hunters of the night—owls(!). 7-9 p.m. Free.

Deer Haven Preserve, 4183 Liberty Rd., Delaware. 740-524-8600, ext. 3. preservationparks.com.

SUNDAY 23 AAA Great Vacations EXPO 12-5 p.m. $4 and $8. Children ages 16 and under, free. Franklin County Veterans Memorial, 300 W. Broad St., Downtown. 614848-8380. aaagreatvacations.com.

Lunch Box Rules! Re-engineer a healthy lunchbox using the Food Guide Pyramid for Kids, and get some fresh new ideas for what to pack in a nutritious lunch. Kids can bring their lunchbox and choose what to pack in their lunch for the next day. For ages five and older, and their favorite adult.

2-3:30 p.m. $25. Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-645-5923.

The Orchid Forest Take a winter escape to the Franklin Park Conservatory for a journey of the senses. In an explosion of shapes, colors, textures and scents supplied by the hundreds of orchid blooms in the Conservatory’s Rainforest biome and Showhouse, The Orchid Forest promises to transport guests from Ohio’s snowy winter to the warm tropics. Extended Wednesday hours until 8 p.m. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two. Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-645-8733.

snot.

We know

We know kids. And all the things that

make their noses run. We hope you’ll breathe a little easier knowing we’re close by.

MONDAY 24 Pee Wee Play Gym Join us for a morning of fun and play. A wide variety of large and fine motor skills equipment will be available. This program will benefit your child by increasing social skills and encouraging family involvement. Every child (or family of children) must be accompanied by an adult. Ages three and under with parent. Children up to six months old are allowed at no charge. Frequent visitor cards can be purchased at the front desk of the Community Center. 9:3011:30 a.m. $3 per child per visit. Westerville Parks and Recreation Department, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville. 614-901-6500.

Urgent Care. Close To Home.

Canal Winchester, Downtown, Dublin, East Columbus, Westerville You should always call your child’s pediatrician or family doctor first. For hours and directions visit www.NationwideChildrens.org/UrgentCare or visit http://gettag.mobi and scan code.

columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

73

High Utility Bills?

CP

FREE

Carbon Monoxide or Smoke Detector w/every $99 Furnace Tune-Up (reg. $119) Limited Time Only ESTIMATES ARE FREE We give no-cost in-home estimates on: • Solar Panel Installation • Heating & Air Conditioning Equipment • Electrical Panel Upgrades/ Change Outs • Whole-House Back-Up Generators

Call Now! (614) 842-2100 872 Freeway Drive North, Columbus, OH 43229

Indoor, glow-in-the-dark, 18 hole mini-golf

Brrrrrr, it’s cold outside…warm up with a round of indoor putt putt!

B.O.G.O.

CP 1/11

BUY ONE ROUND OF MINI-GOLF GET ONE ROUND OF MINI-GOLF FREE (equal or lessar value)

161 Granville Street Gahanna, OH 43230

614.428.GLOW • www.GlowPuttOhio.com

Change is not just for the weather.

Seasons Life Coaching And Counseling • Do you feel anxious and do not know why?

• Do you sometimes feel sad which interferes with life?

• Do you have trouble building and maintaining healthy relationships?

If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, then welcome to the world of Life Coaching and Counseling!

7644 Slate Ridge Blvd. Reynoldsburg • 614-787-8218 www.seasonscoaching-counseling.com

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| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

jan 2011 Story Times: Music & Movement (25 years) No registration required.11:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview.

614-481-3778.

The Orchid Forest Take a winter escape to the Franklin Park Conservatory for a journey of the senses. In an explosion of shapes, colors, textures and scents supplied by the hundreds of orchid blooms in the Conservatory’s Rainforest biome and Showhouse, The Orchid Forest promises to transport guests from Ohio’s snowy winter to the warm tropics. Extended Wednesday hours until 8 p.m. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-6458733. fpconservatory.org.

Wise About Eyes Traveling Children’s Exhibit 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Children: $3; Adults: $7; Seniors: $5. The Works, 55 S. First St. 740-349-9277. attheworks.org.

TUESDAY 25 Clue Tournament Do you rock at board games? Think you can beat everyone at Clue? Come show your stuff, have some snacks, and win prizes! For grades 5-9. Space is limited.

3:30-5 p.m. $2. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778. ghpl.org.

Story Times: Tales for Toddlers (1836 months) 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

The Orchid Forest 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-6458733. fpconservatory.org.

Wise About Eyes Traveling Children’s Exhibit 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Children: $3; Adults: $7; Seniors: $5. The Works, 55 S. First St. 740-349-9277. attheworks.org.

WEDNESDAY 26 Story Times: Baby Games (6-17 months) 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

DISNEY ON ICE Friday, Jan. 21 — For even more Zoo-related fun, join your friends from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium for this special Zoo Night Celebration as Disney on Ice presents Princess Classics at Nationwide Arena. All your favorite Disney princesses like Cinderella, Belle, Ariel, Jasmine, Mulan, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White and special guest Tinker Bell are joined on the ice by their dashing heroes and devoted sidekicks in this once in a lifetime extravaganza.

The evening will include a Zoo welcome, t-shirts toss at intermission and be sure to stay in your seats after the show for an on-ice demonstration on how the magic comes to life!

You can also get $4 off each non-premium seating ticket for this 7 p.m. performance on Friday, Jan. 21. Just use the special discount code ZOODOI when purchasing your tickets.

This is not valid on Rink-side or VIP seats and there are no double discounts.

And if you can’t be a part of Zoo Night? This discount is also available for performances on Jan 22 at 11am or Jan 23 at 11a.m.

To buy tickets, go to Ticketmaster.com and use the discount code above.

Story Times: Family Story Time (2-5 years) 7-7:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

The Orchid Forest 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-6458733. fpconservatory.org.

Wise About Eyes Traveling Children’s Exhibit 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Children: $3; Adults: $7; Seniors: $5. The Works, 55 S. First St. 740-349-9277. attheworks.org.

THURSDAY 27 Storybook Science: Winter Fun Explore quality children’s literature in a natural setting. Each 45-minute session includes songs, games, crafts, creative movement, outdoor exploration, and hands-on science. Suitable for young scientists ages 3-5. 10 a.m. Free. Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd. 740-323-2355. dawesarb.org.

The Orchid Forest 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-6458733. fpconservatory.org.

The Orchid Forest 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-6458733. fpconservatory.org.

Wise About Eyes Traveling Children’s Exhibit 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Children: $3; Adults: $7; Seniors: $5 (ASTC Passport members: general admission). The Works, 55 S. First St. 740-349-9277. attheworks.org.

Toddler Time 9:30-11:30 a.m. $3 per child per visit. Westerville Parks and Recreation Department, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville. 614-901-6500. westerville.org.

FRIDAY 28 Family Campout at the Lodge A roaring fire, a night hike, games and more await you during this family camping night in The Lodge. Registration required by January 21st. 7-8 a.m. $5 per family. Deer Haven Preserve, 4183 Liberty Rd., Delaware. 740-524-8600, ext. 5.

Free HIV Testing Kick-off 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Nationwide Children’s Hospital, 700 Childrens Dr., Olde Towne East. 614-722-6060 option 9.

Wise About Eyes Traveling Children’s Exhibit 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Children: $3; Adults: $7; Seniors: $5. The Works, 55 S. First St. 740-349-9277. attheworks.org.

SATURDAY 29 Grafting the Right Way The Arboretum’s propagator will instruct students on the art and science of grafting to ensure future success in reproducing their own plants. Rootstock and scion wood will be provided (attendees may bring their own scion wood of woody

MAKE IT A WOW! FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT!

What A Movie! with Buzz Fitzgerald

Check Out Reviews Of Current WOW! OnDemand Movies! www.columbusparent.com/calendar REVIEWS COMING UP IN JANUARY:

Legend Of Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole Dec 30-Jan 5

Shrek Forever After Jan 6-12

Dinner For Schmucks Jan 20-26

Despicable Me Jan 13-19

Secretariat Jan 27- Feb 2

MAKE IT A WOW! FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT! • GATHER THE FAMILY • GET THE SNACKS • GET COMFY! • CHOOSE A GREAT FAMILY MOVIE FROM THE LARGE SELECTION AT WOW! OnDemand

Don’t have WOW? Go to wowway.com or call 1-888-715-4719 today! columbusparent.com | January 2011 |

75

FREE TUITION A Safe Environment for our kids to be true to themselves, And reach their full potential.

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jan 2011 material as well). All participants take home their own grafted material to nurture at home. 8:30 a.m.-noon. $40.

Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd. 740-323-2355. dawesarb.org.

Phoenix Theatre for Children: Encyclopedia Brown The residents of Idaville have given teenager Leroy Brown the nickname Encyclopedia because of his acute skill in deductive reasoning. Sometimes he assists his father, the local police chief, in solving difficult cases, but mostly he practices the art of detection in the family garage assisting his friends in unraveling mysteries. Using a game show format, this production challenges audience members to match wits with the genius boy detective. Can you solve the mysteries? 3-5 p.m. Adults: $20; Children: $10. McConnell Arts Center of Worthington, 777 Evening St., Worthington. 614-431-0329.

Sneak Preview Mystic Drumz Performance The Works Museum of History, Art and Technology will host a sneak preview of Lorne Lampert’s interactive Mystic Drumz performance.

The one-hour preview gives the audience a glimpse of the full-length, hands-on interactive family show performed later at the Midland Theatre.

Mystic Drumz blends multicultural music themes and audience participation with fantastical stories introducing world percussion instruments. 1-2 p.m.

Children: $3; Adults: $7; Seniors: $5.

The Works, 55 S. First St. 740-349-9277. attheworks.org.

Mutual trust and respect are the foundation of our schools.

Our seats are filling fast, so apply online, take a tour and see for yourself the difference we can make in your child’s confidence, education and life Learn more at NewMediaMiddle.org or call (614) 448-7203 76

| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-6458733. fpconservatory.org.

The Works Science Fair The Works is proud to host the Licking County Local Science Fair Competition, where participants in grades K through eight have worked hard during the past several months preparing their projects in hopes of winning top honors. Noon-4 p.m. Children: $3; Adults: $7; Seniors: $5. The Works, 55 S. First St. 740-3499277. attheworks.org.

MONDAY 31 Pee Wee Play Gym Join us for a morning of fun and play. A wide variety of large and fine motor skills equipment will be available. This program will benefit your child by increasing social skills and encouraging family involvement. Every child (or family of children) must be accompanied by an adult. Ages three and under with parent. Children up to six months old are allowed at no charge. Frequent visitor cards can be purchased at the front desk of the Community Center. 9:3011:30 a.m. $3 per child per visit. Westerville Parks and Recreation Department, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville. 614-901-6500.

Story Times: Music & Movement (25 years) No registration required. 11:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview.

614-481-3778.

The Orchid Forest 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-6458733. fpconservatory.org.

The Orchid Forest10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Adults: $11/Seniors: $9/Children 3-17: $6/Free for children under two.

Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E. Broad St., Olde Towne East. 614-6458733. fpconservatory.org.

Wise About Eyes Traveling Children’s Exhibit 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Children: $3; Adults: $7; Seniors: $5. The Works, 55 S. First St. 740-349-9277. attheworks.org.

SUNDAY 30

Dads’ Coffee Twice a month on the first Saturday of the month at 10 a.m., working and stay-at-home dads can connect. Bring the kids out to play and socialize with other fathers. This free event is at Sprout Soup, 4310 N. High St. For more information visit Sproutsoup.com.

Preservation Parks presents Woodland Terrarium Join us as we learn how to design, create and maintain your own woodland terrarium to take home. Registration and pre-payment are required by 1/23/2011. 2-4 p.m. $10 per person for supplies. Deer Haven Preserve, 4183 Liberty Rd., Delaware. 740-524-8600, ext. 3. Reservations can be made at register@preservationparks.com.

The Orchid Forest 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

ONGOING

Farm and Nature Guides Volunteer weekdays at the Stratford Ecological Center to help children and adults understand the relationships between living things and their environment.

The Stratford Ecological Center is locat-

ed at 3083 Liberty Rd. in Delaware. For more information visit StratfordEcologicalCenter.org.

Farmer’s Helper Come volunteer at the Stratford Ecological Center and become a farmer’s helper! Farmers’ helpers will assist with an abundance of activities such as animal chores, carpentry, fence building, preparing and maintaining the fields. The Stratford Ecological Center is located at 3083 Liberty Rd. in Delaware. For more information visit StratfordEcological Center.org.

Gardeners If you enjoy cultivating your green thumb then this is the perfect volunteer opportunity for you. Join the Stratford Ecological Center, 3083 Liberty Rd., to garden and maintain the vegetable gardens including the children’s garden, field gardens, giving garden, greenhouses and landscape gardens.

Mocha Moms Support group for stayat-home moms of color. For more information email columbusmochamoms@yahoo.com MOGIS:Mothers of Girls in Sports Free group seminars for moms and daughters. New local group called Moms of Girls in Sports (MOGIS) meets the first Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at Wyandotte Athletic Club.

Moms, come with your female athletes to get questions answered from Margaret on a variety of topics including nutrition, strength and conditioning, injury prevention and marketing for scholarships. Share stories and learn from other moms with girls in sports.

E-mail Margaret if you plan to attend, margaret@femaleathletesfirst.com.

Mommies of Miracles M.O.M is a growing Ohio support community of mothers who have children (of any age) with complex medical issues or disabilities. Our mission is to eliminate the isolation mothers of exceptional needs children experience on a daily basis by providing an extended network of confidential and compassionate emotional support. Join us for monthly meetings, fun family events, couples’ enrichment activities, and advocacy initiatives. For more information on events, resources and more, go to mommiesofmiracles.com Mommies Time Out Online Support Group A fun group of moms who provide support and social activities for stay-at-home and working moms in the Columbus area. Includes playgroups, play dates, meet-ups, moms’ nights out, message boards and more.

MommiesTimeOut.Proboards105.com.

MOMS Club of Clintonville A fun social and support group for stay-athome moms and their children. Play-

groups, field trips and monthly moms’ nights out. 10 a.m. on the second Wednesday of each month (locations vary). For membership information, contact Carrie at 614-447- 0567, e-mail clintonvillemomsclub@yahoo.com, or visit our website http://clintonvillemomsclub.yolasite.com.

MOMS Club of Delaware A fun, social support group for stay-at-home moms and their children with playgroups, field trips and monthly moms’ nights out. Meets at 10 a.m. the first Monday of every month. For membership information, email at momsclubofdelaware@hotmail.com.

MOMS Club of Dublin Central Support group for stay-at-home moms.

9:45 a.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at Vineyard Church, 5400 Avery Rd. Contact Mandy Skinner at amandaskinner2@gmail.com, or 614940-9392. Or go to Geocities.com/ momsclubdublincentral/.

MOMS Club of DublinWest MOMS Club of Dublin West offers a variety of activities each month including a monthly meeting, mom and tot activities, play groups, parties, and a moms’ night out. For more information, call 614-873-9672 or e-mail momsclubofdublinwest@gmail.com MOMS Club of Dublin Southeast Support group for stay-at-home moms and their children. Playgroups, monthly calendar of events, moms’ night out, service projects. Contact Membership VP at momsclubofdublinse@ yahoo.com for more info.

MOMS Club of Gahanna East Support group for stay-at-home moms.

Call Cathy at 614-759-6137.

MOMS Club of Gahanna West Support group for stay-at-home moms.

Gahannamoms@yahoo.com.

MOMS Club of Hilliard Northeast A social and support group for stay-athome and part-time working moms and their children. Playgroups, field trips and moms’ nights out. 9:45 a.m. on the first Thursday of the month at Scioto Ridge United Methodist Church, 4343 Dublin Rd. mchilliardnorth@ yahoo.com.

MOMS Club of Hilliard of Northwest MOMS Club of Hilliard-Northwest is a social and support group for stay-athome and part time working moms and their children. We offer playgroups, field trips, mom’s nights out and much more.

A general business meeting is held the first Wednesday of each month. Please visit our website at momsclubhilliardnorthwest.org or email momsclubhilliardnorthwest@yahoo.com for more information.

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You could win!

YOU COULD WIN!

Watch for our Safety Education Coloring Contests in March, June, September and December.

Prizes include Kohl’s Gift Cards and Cool Bike/Sledding Helmets!

jan 2011 MOMS Club of Lewis Center Northeast A social and support group for stayat-home moms and their children. Activities include playgroups, moms’ night out, service projects and more. The original chapter has since split to accommodate the great number of stay-at-home moms in our area. We are actively seeking moms living within the designated boundaries east of S. Old State Rd., south of Lewis Center Rd., north of Orange Rd., and west of Africa Rd. For membership information, call Liz at 740-657-1473 or visit lewiscentermomsclubne.org.

MOMS Club of Lewis Center Southeast A non-profit support group for stay-at-home moms. Actively seeking new members who live south of Orange Rd., east of S. Old State Rd., and north of Lazelle Rd. For membership information contact Gail at Moms_Club_Membership@yahoo.com or lewiscentermomsclub.org.

MOMS Club of New Albany Support group for stay-at-home moms. Contact NAMOMSclub@yahoo.com.

MOMS Club of Northwest Columbus & Upper Arlington Support group for stay-at-home or part-time working moms. Meets on the second Wednesday of each month. Call 614-388-9410, or go to ColumbusMOMSClub.com.

MOMS Club of Pickerington North Support group for stay-at-home moms.

Also serves Reynoldsburg and Pataskala.

E-mail Rachel at argillaspie@yahoo.com.

SM

For coloring contest information, safety tips, or to download a free safety activity book, please visit: www.NationwideChildren.org/KISS K.I.S.S.Your Kids 78

♥ Keep Them Safe!

| January 2011 | columbusparent.com

MOMS Club of Pickerington South Support group for stay-at-home moms living south of Refugee Rd. in Pickerington or Canal Winchester. 10 a.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Peace United Methodist Church, 235 Diley Rd. Go to Pickerington Moms.tripod.com.

MOMS Club of Powell Support group for stay-at-home moms. E-mail Stacie at powellmoms@yahoo.com.

MOMS Club of Sunbury A social and support group for stay-at-home moms and their children. Meets for business the last Thursday of each month.

Monthly activities include play dates, local outings, cooking club, book club and moms’ night out. Contact Amy at 740-513-6267, or sunburymomsclub@yahoo.com for more information.

MOMS Club of Westerville South Support group for stay-at-home moms.

We have play groups, craft days, and a

monthly moms’ night out. Meetings are at 10 a.m. on the last Thursday of each month at Grace Lutheran Church, 100 E. Schrock Rd., Westerville. Contact momswestervillesouth@yahoo.com for more information.

MOMS Club ofWorthington Support group for stay-at-home moms. Meets on the third Tuesday of the month atWorthington Presbyterian Church. E-mail prospectivemember@worthingtonmoms.org for more information.

MOPS Dublin Fellowship support group for moms with newborns through kindergarten. The first Thursday of every month, meet at Radiant Life Church from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and the third Thursday is moms’ night out. For more information call Lindsay at 614-571-2995.

MOPS Newark Fellowship and support group open to all moms with children ages birth-5. Meets at 9:30 a.m. on the second Friday of each month at First United Methodist Church, 88 N. Fifth St. Call 740-349-7020, or e-mail mops@firstumcnewark.org.

MOPS Upper Arlington Lutheran Church A wonderful opportunity to meet other moms with young children.

The group meets every first and third Tuesday at 9 a.m. at the Upper Arlington Lutheran Church, 2300 Lytham Rd. The cost per meeting is $5 and childcare is $2 per child. For more information, call 614-451-3736.

Mothers & More Chapter 51 Nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of mothers through support, education and advocacy. St. John’s Episcopal Church, 700 N. High St., Worthington.

Call Janet at 614-888-4702, or email tsalmon11@yahoo.com.

Mothers of Multiples East Columbus Support and social group for mothers of multiples. 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. Church of the Redeemer United Methodist, 235 McNaughten Rd. Email: ECMom.org.

Mothers of Preschoolers Meeting Join our MOPS group the first Tuesday of every month, September through May from 6-8:15 p.m. at the Beechwold Christian Church, 280 Morse Rd. Come for dinner, listen to a speaker and join a small discussion group to share your ideas, thoughts and experiences with other moms. Call Beechwold Christian Church at 614-888-1734, or visit gobcc.com for more information.

Mothers Swapping Skills Group Online notice board helps bring moms together who would like to exchange skills and services such as cooking, tutoring, babysitting, cleaning, carpooling and coaching.

Group is actively seeking women leaders for guidance. Register at Groups.google. com/group/mothersswappingskills.

“My” Food-Allergy Support Group A group for parents of children dealing with life-threatening food allergies. We offer monthly meetings, occasional nonfood family activities and a private email group for additional support, sharing of concerns, successes, coping strategies, resources and tools. E-mail Dena Friedel at dfriedel@insight.rr.com.

New Moms’ Group An opportunity for new mothers and their babies to meet others and share information. Meets from 1-2:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Elizabeth Blackwell Center, 3635 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus. Free. 614-566-4446.

Nisonger Center Dual Diagnosis Clinic This clinic provides mental health diagnosis, medication recommendations and psychological assessments for people of all ages who have both a developmental disability and a mental illness. The Ohio State University Nisonger Center, 357 McCampbell Hall, 1581 Dodd Dr. Call Diana Boggs, 614292-9780, or e-mail boggs.59@osu.edu.

Online Nanny Group An online group for Columbus-area nannies that helps to grow friendships and makes play dates.

Go to groups.yahoo.com/group/ohionannies/.

Perinatal Outreach & Encouragement (POEM, Inc.) We are moms who have survived prenatal or postpartum depression (PPD) so we understand like no one else can. POEM is the Ohio Coordinator of Postpartum Support International (PSI), the leading authority on perinatal mental health. For more information call 614-315-8989 or poemonline.org.

Receptionist:Weekdays and Saturdays Volunteer your time at the Stratford Ecological Center by answering the phone, directing visitors to activities, assisting with trails and u-pick areas, as well as selling farm products. Volunteers are welcome Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. The Stratford Ecological Center is located at 3083 Liberty Rd. in Delaware.

For more information, visit StratfordEcologicalCenter.org.

Saturday Farm and Nature Guides Volunteer at the Stratford Ecological Center on the third Saturday of the Month to give tours of the beautiful farm to families. The Stratford Ecological Center is located at 3083 Liberty Rd. in Delaware. For more information visit StratfordEcologicalCenter.org.

Trail Maintenance Come join other volunteers at to help maintain the enchanting trails of the Stratford Ecological Center, 3083 Liberty Rd., Delaware.

For more information please visit, StratfordEcologicalCenter.org.

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or Call Carroll Baker Today! 1-866-220-7816 Invite Mickey, Elmo, Dora, Cat in the Hat, A Clown, Balloon Artist, Face Painter, or a Magician for your next party.

Pick from 30+entertainers www.AwesomeFamily Entertainment.com 614-224-9568

Family friendly - Headliner Magic Show Jan. 29, at 7:30 p at Vets Memorial Aud. Adult: $20, Sr: $15; Child $10 โ 1 free Child TK for each adult TK use Code HTPAR 614-299-8995 or www.magifest.org (HDLR)

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