Columbus Parent - February 2012

FEBRUARY 2012

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getting started: TABLE OF CONTENTS AR: CALEND

179

TO DO THINGS NTH THIS MO

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

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Vanessa Micic vmicic@columbusparent.com JOE MAIORANA PHOTOS

ON THE GO 06 08 09 10 12 13 14 16

NEWS ON THE GO PRODUCT PIX BEST BETS: We offer up five of your best bets for family fun in Central Ohio this month COLUMBUS PARENT PROFILE: Pickerington’s Amanda and Anthony Roberts NAME THIS COLUMN: Introducing our new columnist Joel Oliphint HOUSEBROKEN: Dispatch columnist Joe Blundo NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT: Marysville SHOP SPOTLIGHT: Cindy Beil from The Ribbon Box

Will Shilling

FAMILY FUN 35 36 37 38 40 41

NEED TO KNOW 18 19 20

FAMILY FINANCE: with Denise Trowbridge PEDIATRIC HEALTHSOURCE: from Nationwide Children’s Hospital AGE-APPROPRIATE: ALLERGIES AGES 1+: Early exposure: does it work?

AGES 3+: Keeping play dates safe and fun AGES 5+: Is your child old enough to carry an EpiPen?

HOT TOPIC: SCHOOLS 24 26

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HANDS ON: A pop-up Valentine from Clintonville’s Wholly Craft PARTIES: A Zoo-per birthday party!

PLAYGROUND PATROL: The free part of the Westerville Community Center EATING OUT WITH KIDS: Smiling Daisy Café in Milford Center WORTH THE PRICE OF A SITTER? Valentine’s date night in Old Worthington DAY TRIPPIN’: The Mazza Museum of International Art from Picture Books REVIEWS: Books, apps, games and a family-friendly website and YouTube channel

ON THE COVER: The Columbus Blue Jackets help us salute Logan, 7, who is one of Central Ohio’s pediatric cancer-crushing heroes!

PHOTO BY ALYSIA BURTON

THE GO-TO GUIDE: How to choose a school when you have a choice THE SCHOOLS DIRECTORY: A comprehensive listing of public (including charter), private and parochial schools in Franklin and the six surrounding counties

| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

wshilling@columbusparent.com PRODUCTION EDITOR

Rebecca Zimmer rzimmer@columbusparent.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Michaela Schuett mschuett@columbusparent.com PHOTOGRAPHER

Alysia Burton aburton@columbusparent.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Heather Weekley hweekley@columbusparent.com CONTRIBUTORS

Tessa Berg, Joe Blundo, Olivera Bratich, Geoff Dutton, Melissa Kossler Dutton, Colin Hawes, Joe Maiorana, Joel Oliphint, Phil Pikelny, Elizabeth Seufer, Shawn Sines, Denise Trowbridge DISTRIBUTION If you would like to receive Columbus Parent at your business, or to report delivery concerns:

John Henry 614-410-1797 jhenry@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: 52,000 copies. Copyright ©2012 The Dispatch Printing Company

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3

getting started: LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

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Dear Columbus Parents, Daring, aren’t we — putting a kid in a Columbus Blue Jackets jersey on our cover this month? Discounting for a moment that the kid in question — 7-year-old Logan Roberts of Pickerington — is a pediatric cancer survivor and his is a cause that the Jackets support generously, there’s another good reason for putting the jersey on our cover.

It’s because we’re not fair-weather fans of the Jackets (and that’s not just because our parent company owns a small chunk of the team — believe me, we don’t get free tickets).

And the reason we’re not fair-weather fans of the Columbus Blue Jackets is because the Jackets are not fair-weather fans of Columbus.

Before this season, I had a decent idea of how often the players and coaches appear at and participate in community events. But after Alison Pegg, one of my colleagues here in our magazine’s division, took a job with the Jackets, I quickly learned from talking to her and reading her Twitter feed just how much and how often the team — in between practices and games, in season and out of season — are showing up at Columbus City schools, Columbus Metropolitan Library branches, American Red Cross blood drives, the Ronald McDonald House, The Furniture Bank of Central

Ohio, the VA Ambulatory Care Center, Nationwide Children’s Hospital and many more places. And when they do, they’re immediately expected to learn names, ask questions, take the lead in new and often challenging social situations.

You ever try doing that? It’s not easy.

And more often than not, it’s these schools, libraries and other organizations that benefit most from these appearances, not the Jackets themselves. Oh, and how about those 50/50 Raffles? They raise thousands of dollars per home game for local charities like the OSU Student Veteran Affairs Fund and Operation Buckeye (which sends care packages to our troops).

So roll your eyes if you must and mutter something about who you’d fire or trade. But at the same time, think about the thousands of hours and hundreds of thousands of dollars that the Jackets give to and raise for people in this town.

A jersey on the cover seems like the least we can do in return.

CONNECT WITH US ColumbusParent.com | Facebook: Columbus Parent Magazine | Twitter @ColumbusParent and @jane_hawes EMAIL: contact@columbusparent.com or jane.hawes@columbusparent.com

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on the go: NEWS ON THE GO

200 REASONS why columbus

KIDS ON THE GO

Beating Pediatric Cancer

RAISE A FAMILY

In our ongoing, bicentennial tabulation of why we love raising our families here, here are Reasons Nos. 21-40:

21. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: It’s a worldclass zoo for a world-class town!

22. Anthony-Thomas Chocolates: The original Dispatch file photo

factory tour in Columbus and, oh yeah, perfect for all your Valentine’s Day needs!

23. Whetstone Park of Roses: No, you can’t pick the roses (for Valentine’s Day or any day), but it sure is a great place to visit, even when the roses aren’t in bloom!

24. White Castle Sliders: The original finger food

32. A homeschool-friendly culture: Things have

25. Expansion of Columbus State Community College: More great, cost-effective educational options for any student in the family

26. Native American Mounds: Nothing makes history come alive faster for kids than ancient artifacts with strange explanations.

27. Olentangy Indian Caverns: Nothing ignites a parent’s latent case of claustrophobia faster than watching their kids enthusiastically disappear into an underground cave.

28. The Grange Audubon Center: When this urban park opened, it immediately shot to the top of the list of parents’ sanity-saving mid-winter destinations.

29. John Glenn: Most kids say they want to be at least two different things when they grow up. Astronaut AND senator? This kid actually did it.

30. Suburban Rec Centers: We know people who move to various towns because the recreation centers are so good there.

31. Healthy respect for the importance of quality breakfast food: From Bob Evans and First Watch to Skillet and Nancy’s, we’ve got all your omelet and pancake needs covered in this town.

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Polar Frontier at the Columbus Zoo improved vastly in the last two decades, whether it’s weekday classes at arts centers, volunteering opportunities or just more respect for people’s choices.

33. Clintonville: Family-style cool neighborhood

34. King Arts Complex: A true gem for arts and culture for everyone in this town

35. Lincoln Theatre: Urban arts revival at its best

36. Beyond football: Have you ever been to a collegiate synchronized swimming, gymnastics or wrestling championship? You could and you should at OSU!

37. Katie Smith: Another great role model for kids in this town (though we big girls would sure like to know the secret to her athletic longevity)

38. Donato’s Pizza: Now THAT’S how you rejuvenate your core product!

39. The Big Three Shopping Centers: Easton, Polaris, Tuttle Crossing

40. Not the worst winters on the planet: Seriously, we all know it could be a LOT worse so let’s be grateful we’re not Buffalo.

| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

Logan Roberts doesn’t remember what having kidney cancer was like. He doesn’t remember the surgery, radiation and chemotherapy that knocked the Wilms’ tumor version of the cancer out of his 1-year-old body. And he doesn’t remember how his dad, Tony, used to climb into the crib at Nationwide Children’s Hospital with him during his long stays there.

But the now healthy 6-year-old is accruing a lifetime of memories — positive and empowering memories — as a pediatric cancer survivor. And that’s exactly how his parents want it.

“He understands that he had cancer and he has to be careful of his kidney,” said his mom, Mandy.

“He’s got scars he’ll always have,” added Tony. To help Logan understand why he has those scars and why he celebrates a birthday each year and a “life day” that marks when his cancer went away, the Robertses have gotten Logan involved with various ambassador efforts at the hospital, Logan Roberts and his Blue Jacket “big brother” Jeff including the “Flashes of Hope” Carter (contrary to appearances, they are not related) program, which allows current pediatric cancer patients to memorialize their battles with beautiful, professionally photographed albums.

The gala event will feature food, live and silent auctions, Logan also gets to hang out and a style show with Columbus Blue Jackets players and with members of the Columbus pediatric cancer survivors serving as models.

Blue Jackets who are actively WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 16 at 5:30 p.m. involved with numerous programs PRICE: Dinner packages start at $250 at the hospital and the Ronald LOCATION: Nationwide Arena, McDonald House. On Feb. 16, 200 W. Nationwide Blvd., Arena District Logan will walk the fashion runway CONTACT: 614-246-3707, bluejacketsfoundation.org at the annual Black Tie Blue Jackets Style Show. The event, which raised FLASHES OF HOPE $200,000 for local charities last The non-profit organization inspires children with year, features hockey players and cancer or serious illnesses to celebrate themselves their family members walking with through the use of photography. Flashes of Hope, pediatric-cancer heroes like Logan. which also supports cancer research, has pho“I like that all of this teaches tographed more than 21,000 kids all over the country. him that people are different,” said Interested in learning more or donating to the cause?

Mandy. “He doesn’t judge.”

Call 440-442-9700 or visit flashesofhope.org.

Tony smiled, “Everybody’s got a story.”

Troy Yarrington/Flashes of Hope photo

is a great place to

BLACK TIE BLUE JACKETS STYLE SHOW

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on the go: PRODUCT PIX PISTACIA VERA SIGNATURE COLLECTION

MAGNETIC FUN

Treat your special Valentine to special desserts from Pistacia Vera. The German Village patisserie, known for its colorful macarons, offers a Signature Collection package ($64) that’s packed with their best treats, including macarons, cocoa truffles, pistachio honey nougat and pate de fruit.

541 S. Third St., German Village, 614-220-9070, pistaciavera.com

Magnetic Design Sets ($16.50) will help kids tap into their creative sides. The kits, which are made for boys and girls, include backdrops, figures and accessories for kids to put together. Children can arrange their design on the magnetic tin — meant for storing the pieces — or other magnetic surface.

Helen Winnemore, 150 East Kossuth St., German Village, 614-444-5850, helenwinnemores.com

RECYCLED COIL PAPER BOWL

DINING TABLE PING PONG SET

This home décor piece ($18) is made out of recycled materials and will add a touch of updated creativity to your home.

Crafted by Vietnamese artisans, the proceeds help fund community projects in Vietnam. The bowls are sold at Global Gallery, which supports Fair Trade gifts and items.

682 N. High St., Short North, 614-621-1744, globalgalleryonline.org

After the dishes are cleared, reset with a net and your dining room table will be transformed into a ping pong table. This Ping Pong set ($39.95) comes with a retractable net, two soft touch paddles and two balls. All can be stored in the accompanying mesh bag — ping pong has never been so portable.

Crate & Barrel, 3965 Townsfair Way, Easton Town Center, 614-475-7428, crateandbarrel.com

FLOWER POWER These flowers — $6.50 each and handmade from vintage paper by an Ohio artist — will keep your love alive indefinitely. And the vintage vases ($5.50$8.50) are darn cute, too.

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| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

HOW DOES IT WORK? We can already hear the giggles. Gently roll the Come Back Roller on a hard surface and it will roll back. That’s it. Toddlers probably won’t tire of this simple tin toy ($5), which is made by Schylling and is safe for all ages.

Larson’s Toys and Games, 1617 W. Lane Ave., Upper Arlington, 614-486-7701, larsonstoys.com

on the go: BEST BETS: FEBRUARY 2012

Time to get out of the house?

Explore Columbus with some family-friendly fun this February.

Broadway Across America: Blue Man Group Paul Kolnik photo

This can’t-miss show by the famous blue men is coming to the Palace Theatre to wow audiences with their unique and visually appealing performance.

Catch their multimedia show from Feb. 7-12. Show times vary, and ticket prices start at $28.

34 W. Broad St., Downtown, 614-469-9850, capa.com

Wendy’s Chili Open

Columbus Family Weekend

The annual event at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium lets guests enjoy the sights and sounds of the zoo and taste food from a plethora of Central Ohio restaurants on Feb. 4. Proceeds from the event benefit various charities from around the city. And bring the kids! Children 12 and under are free, and can partake in fun activities. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 the day of the event.

Learn about the city of Columbus when it was founded 200 years ago, as our capital city celebrates its bicentennial. COSI is dedicating a weekend to this special milestone in our history, where families can enjoy various hands on activities at the science center. Visit Saturday, Feb. 11 from 11 a.m.3:30 p.m., or Sunday, Feb. 12 from 1-4:30 p.m.

Admission rates run from $9.25-$21.25, depending on activities.

4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell, 614-645-3466, colszoo.org

333 W. Broad St., Downtown, 614-228-2674, cosi.org

Disney on Ice: 100 Years of Magic

February Family Films

Experience the magic of Walt Disney, Mickey and Minnie as they perform on ice at Nationwide Arena Feb. 1-5. Kids can see favorite characters from movies like “The Lion King” and “Finding Nemo” as they make an appearance during the skating extravaganza. Show times vary, and tickets start at $13.

This month, the King Arts Complex will host a series of films that started out as books and were turned into major motion pictures. The movies are free and feature recent favorites like “The Blind Side “and “The Help.” Times and dates vary, and two children’s matinees are included in the lineup.

200 W. Nationwide Blvd., Arena District, 614-246-2000, nationwidearena.com

867 Mt. Vernon Ave., Downtown, 614-645-5464, kingartscomplex.org

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on the go: COLUMBUS PARENT PROFILE

Anthony and Amanda

ROBERTS

What is the most played song on your iPod right now?

AGES: 35 and 31, they’ve been married for 11 years KIDS: Logan, 7, and Brynlee, 2 NEIGHBORHOOD: Pickerington JOBS: Anthony is an IT manager at Network Global Logistics; Amanda is an office administrator at PNC Investments

ANTHONY: Sports radio 97.1 The Fan AMANDA: “Live a Little,” Kenny Chesney

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

BOTH: The Amazing Race — you can travel

the world and still have a chance to win something at the end.

Who is your favorite TV or movie parent?

ANTHONY: Harry Stamper in “Armageddon” — not perfect and rough around the edges, but moves heaven and earth when it comes to family.

AMANDA: Jackson Curtis in “2012” — also not perfect, but goes up against impossible odds to protect his family

Which super-hero power would you like to have?

ANTHONY: Stop time, there never seems to

be enough.

AMANDA: Multiplicity, that way I won’t ever

have to miss a thing.

Favorite restaurant to take the kids: BOTH: Iron Chef (a Japanese steakhouse in

Pickerington), Logan’s favorite place. He really enjoys the chefs and the big flames, too.

Best advice you ever received as a parent: ANTHONY: The good outweighs the bad.

AMANDA: Just take things one day at a time.

ALYSIA BURTON PHOTO

What have you learned as a parent that you wish someone had told you before you had that first kid?

What did you learn about yourself in going through Logan’s cancer?

Your life’s motto:

ANTHONY: What‘s really important. I don’t think it is something you can

ANTHONY: The world is really, really heavy. You can’t bear to hold it up

learn by being told, but I wish it could have been.

AMANDA: How badly your heart can ache when it comes to your children.

without letting someone in to give you a hand.

AMANDA: Sometimes there isn’t a plan, you just have to go with it.

deals out, one thing you always control is what you do with it.

AMANDA: Always put things in perspective.

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| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

ANTHONY: It is what it is. No matter what life

columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

11

on the go:

Name this column

BY JOEL OLIPHINT

I’m a forgetful person.

Being forgetful is different from being absent-minded. It’s not that I don’t realize there’s a slew of essential items I should remember to pack for my toddler and preschooler (in a regular bag repurposed as a diaper bag since diaper bags are uniformly emasculating).

And yet, I always forget one crucial thing.

On a recent overnight at Grandma’s, I packed plenty of extra clothing but forgot to pack socks. Other times I forgot a blankie, which is akin to withholding coffee from a freelance writer. On several trips to the zoo, I remembered snacks and sippy cups and sunscreen but forgot the stroller. When my 4-year-old was younger and would only behave appropriately in restaurants when accompanied by a pacifier, you can bet it’s the one thing I’d leave at home.

You’d think this character flaw would make me the scourge of my family, preschool, church nursery, etc., right? Ah, but here’s the thing. I’m a dad. I get the Dad Pass.

See, from what I’ve noticed in my four years as a stay-at-home dad, moms hold other moms to an impossibly high standard, yet they give dads the benefit of the doubt.

If my 2-year-old runs screaming around the playground because she isn’t ready to leave, I get looks that say, “Aw, that’s cute. It must be his day off. That poor fish out of water is doing the best he can.”

When all the other kids at preschool are dressed in their Halloween costumes, but I forgot? Dad Pass. When I put one of the kids in the front of the grocery cart despite all the warnings not to do so? Dad Pass. No matter how I screw up, I almost always get more leeway than a mom would.

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| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

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Yes, a healthy dose of condescension often comes with that Dad Pass. The underlying assumption is that dads are just like their dopey sitcom counterparts. I still remember how my wife’s OB/GYN reacted when she learned that I’d be the parent staying home with our son. Her eyes widened, then she regaled us with a tale about her husband feeding her kids croutons for breakfast because “It’s the same as toast.”

Stay-at-home dads also have to deal with that ever present sense of otherness. We’re not in “The Mom Club” — nor do we want to be since that would make for an awkward dynamic on both sides. But we don’t have a built-in network of likeminded, stay-at-home men, and that can be isolating and exhausting.

So it’s not as if the Dad Pass makes everything a cakewalk. The condescension and that me-against-the-world feeling are

Joel Oliphint is a freelance writer, often running his mouth about music in The Other Paper and other pubs. His two kids refer to Bob Evans as Bob Dylan’s and still don’t know the purple dinosaur’s name.

To name our newest column by our newest columnist, Joel Oliphint, visit our Facebook page and suggest a name. If we select your suggestion as the winner, there’s a nifty prize in it for you! definite hurdles. But I don’t think I’d trade in my Dad Pass to make them go away. It’s like an insurance policy. Ideally I won’t have to use it, but the next time I forget the diapers, I’ll be glad I have it.

on the go: HOUSEBROKEN

Ohhh,

APP!

BY JOE BLUNDO

Apps for smartphones and tablet computers are all the rage. But it seems to me we need a little more creativity in conceiving them.

Angry Birds? Come on: We all carry powerful computers in our pockets and the best we can think to do with them is play a game in which birds battle pigs?

Here are the apps I would like to see invented:

How Mad Will My Wife Get? Before committing a spousal offense, you would consult this handy checklist on your smartphone to see what the consequences will be.

It would list all the common misdemeanors (leaving wet towel on floor; forgetting trash day; feeding kids Cheetos for breakfast) and felonies (forgetting anniversary; tearing out wall without prior consultation; answering truthfully when asked about evidence of weight gain.)

A quick glance at the list might be all you need to avoid making the same mistake twice.

Scram: This app would be the reverse of Shazam, which identifies a song if you hold your phone in the direction of the sound.

Wouldn’t the more useful app be a program that kills a song that’s stuck in your head?

I see it as an insecticide for such earworms as It’s a Small World After All and anything by Ke$ha.

Where Are My Keys?

There’s already an app called Where’s My Car, designed to eliminate the problem of losing your car in a mammoth parking lot. You just tell your phone where you parked and it reminds you of the location later.

That’s all well and good, but before you can lose your car you have to find your keys. What I want is an app that, when I dial a number, makes my keys levitate into my pocket. Or better yet, just starts the car.

Possible brand extensions include Where’s My Wallet,

Where’s My Other Shoe and Where’s My Common Sense.

Artery View: When pondering whether to order the pound-and-a-half burger wrapped in six slices of bacon and topped with cheese, you would use this app to visualize how much plaque it would deposit in your left coronary artery.

Then you could decide whether to eat it anyway or compromise by ordering it with a small life-insurance policy on the side.

Bacteria Scan: The problem: The piece of leftover pizza you’ve been craving all day has just fallen, crust side down, onto the kitchen floor. It still looks pretty appetizing, but what kind of germs threaten if you eat it, especially considering that your dog lies in

that very spot to take a nap?

With Bacteria Scan, you simply snap a photo of the food with your phone and receive an instant analysis of the microorganisms that jumped aboard, plus an assessment of their relative lethality.

The app would have a special override setting: The Five-Second Rule Is Good Enough for Me.

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

Visit his blog at Dispatch.com

columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

13

on the go: NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT

MARYSVILLE

Marysville

COLUMBUS

STORY BY MELISSA KOSSLER DUTTON PHOTOS BY ALYSIA BURTON

City officials like to tout Marysville as the place “where the grass is greener.” The slogan references Scotts Miracle-Gro, the horticulture-products manufacturer headquartered in the Union County seat.

The community also is famously home to the Honda of America plant, but there is plenty more to Marysville than manufacturing.

Marysville has noteworthy parks, locally owned shops and historical treasures.

Visitors can expect more than ball fields when they visit Marysville parks, said longtime resident John Connolly. Many area parks have walking trails, playgrounds and unique attractions, he said. Connolly and his wife, Pamela, like to take their children, ages 1 and 3, to Aldersgate Park. The kids enjoy the tree house and the fishing pond there, he said.

The family also regularly visits Schwartzkopf Park, which features a walking trail, horseshoe pit and playground equipment.

Connolly is pleased to be raising his children in the town where he grew up. He

Aldersgate Park

14

| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

Union County Historical Society Museum

likes the values and sense of community in Marysville, he said.

“Marysville is very familyfriendly,” Connolly said.

“We’re still kind of old-fashioned compared to other places. My 3-year-old daughter knows most of the people that work in the restaurants and stores around town by name and they know her, too.”

Neighbors and downtown business owners pride themselves on watching out for one another, Connolly added.

Wendy Hord, owner of Time Again Children, recently converted her business to an online service. The business sells second-hand children’s clothing and items, which assists the buyers and the sellers, she said. Hord also carries an interesting array of goods made by moms around Central Ohio.

The handcrafted items include hair bows and embellished jackets, sweaters and dresses.

“I’m a mother and I wanted to work with other local moms,” she said. “That’s what we try to make it about here — local.”

Just Around the Corner is an antique and gift store that has an ever-changing selection of vintage and unique goods.

Moms also are at the helm of The Ribbon Box, a scrumptious bakery and gift shop. The cakes are so tasty that the bakery sells the pieces that are cut off so the cakes can be decorated.

Customers eat up the chance to buy the leftovers, which are sold in a resealable container with a blob of frosting on them, said coowner Cindy Beil.

“People love the cake scraps,” she said.

Another spot for baked goods is

Mrs. Renison’s Donuts. The cash-only donut shop makes fresh, fabulous glazed donuts and other goodies.

If you’re in the mood for fine dining, pay a visit to Doc Henderson’s, a local institution that serves American bistro cuisine. Located in a beautifully restored brick home, the restaurant offers a tempting selection of seafood, pasta and desserts.

In Marysville, the Farmhouse Ice Cream Parlor welcomes diners for lunch and dinner. The family-owned restaurant serves chicken, sandwiches and hand-dipped ice cream.

The eatery’s ice cream specials include the Gold Wing, a peanut butter sundae named for the motorcycle that used to be built at the local Honda plant, and the Grass is Greener, a mint-flavored treat that’s name pays tribute to Scotts.

The shop, which encourages sampling of its ice cream, has a blackboard wall for kids to write

The Ribbon Box and draw on. Little ones also will like watching the train that zips around the dining area. The train travels through a covered bridge in a nod to Union County’s five historic covered bridges.

Visitors can learn more about the bridges and other local history at the Union County Historical Society Museum, which reopens in May. Housed in a Victorian home, the museum has plenty of kid-friendly

exhibits. Children love to hear tales of Noah Orr, the Union County giant, said society president Bob Parrott.

Orr, who was over 7 feet tall, performed in circuses and vaudeville shows in the mid to late 1800s. He died in his Union County home in 1882.

The Victorian toy collection is another draw for families, Parrott said. Car buffs will be interested in the society’s antique car.

The Turner Automobile, built in 1905 by a local foundry owner, is the first car built in Marysville, he said.

“It’s one of a kind,” he said.

“They never made any others.”

Just be sure to call ahead or check the museum’s website for hours: The site is staffed by volunteers so their hours are limited.

ALDERSGATE PARK The corner of Damascus Road and Emmaus Road marysvilleohio.org/ ParksPages/CityParkland.htm DOC HENDERSON’S 318 E. Fifth St. 937-642-6661 dochendersons restaurant.com FARMHOUSE ICE CREAM PARLOR 123 E. Fifth St. 937-738-7513 farmhouse-icecream-parlor.com JUST AROUND THE CORNER 125 S. Main St. 614-432-6638

MRS. RENISON’S DONUTS 622 E. Fifth St. 937-642-7008 THE RIBBON BOX 121 E. Fifth St. 937-642-4314 theribbonboxcakery.com SCHWARTZKOPF PARK North Maple Street marysvilleohio.org/ ParksPages/CityParkland.htm TIME AGAIN CHILDREN 740-360-7663 timeagainchildren.com UNION COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM 246 W. Sixth St. 937-645-4177. historyohio.com

columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

15

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Cindy Beil CO-OWNER OF THE RIBBON BOX For years, Cindy Beil and Denene Keifer dreamed of owning their own business. They considered a variety of possibilities but kept coming back to Keifer’s skills as a cake decorator.

Three years ago, they opened The Ribbon Box bakery, which specializes in decorated cakes, in Ribbon Box owners Denene Keifer and Cindy Beil downtown Marysville.

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| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

In the front of the store, you stock books and other children’s items.

How did that part of the business evolve?

I just love children’s books and that’s how it started. We’ve carried all sorts of stuff but have narrowed it down to what was selling. When I walk in the door, I can tell you exactly what’s sold.

What has surprised you the most about being a business owner?

Both of us would say how exhausting it is. It’s not like when you turn the lights off

ALYSIA BURTON PHOTO

at night that you don’t think about it. It’s with you all the time. I didn’t realize how much hard work it would take. All the glory is God’s.

There’s no way we could have done this without God.

Tell us about your cookie and cupcake of the month clubs?

Those are really popular.

People come in each month and pick out whatever cookie or cupcake they want.

Kids love it. Adults love it.

What is the best part of owning a bakery?

The best park of the bakery is the people that come in. You don’t order a cake because it’s Wednesday. People order cakes because something special is going on in their life. It’s so fun to be a part of that kid’s birthday or (a couple’s) 60th anniversary and hearing the stories. People are joyful when they’re here and that spirit is contagious. —MELISSA KOSSLER DUTTON

WE’RE ALL ABOUT CHILD’S PLAY! Saturday, March 3, is Kids Day at the Show. Here’s a glimpse of what your kids have to look forward to:

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columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

17

need to know: FAMILY FINANCE

Oh, Appy Day! 2012 already is shaping up to be another year of tight budgets. So if you aren’t already using your smartphone as a tool to stretch dollars, it’s time to get started. I’d hate to see you spend one penny more than you have to when there are so many free and low-cost apps to help you shop smarter, pay less and scoop out better deals. Here are some of my personal favorites: Redlaser. I hate that feeling — standing in the store aisle, hem-hawing because I’m not sure I’m paying the best price for an item. With Redlaser, you don’t have to wonder. The free app is a barcode scanner developed by eBay. Simply put, it allows you to scan a product’s barcode and then it shows you what other stores and online retailers charge for the same item. It even compares prices locally, so you’ll know if you can get it for less down

18

the street. If you’re shopping for books, it’ll tell you if there’s a free copy in the local library! It doesn’t stop there: That same barcode scan can alert you to potential food allergens and nutrition information on food products. Compatible with iPhone and Android.

Grocery iQ ensures you never leave home with the grocery list still stuck to the side of the fridge (I’m guilty). You can add the items you frequently purchase to your “favorites” list, and organize your list by your store’s aisles. Plus you can match items on your list to the coupons.com database and upload coupons from it. You can even email the grocery list to your ever-helpful spouse, on the off chance it’s his turn to do the shopping. Free for Android and iPhone.

CouponSherpa is a companion to the couponsherpa.com website.

You upload coupons onto your phone for the cashier to scan at checkout, or load coupons directly onto your store loyalty cards using your phone. Free for Android and iPhone.

The Coupons App trawls the Internet delivering coupons and daily deals to your phone. It’s also a very

| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

BY DENISE TROWBRIDGE

popular download because it has a gas-price finder, which compares prices at nearby gas stations. It also has a barcode scanner for price comparisons at multiple stores and a coupon display that can be scanned by a cashier. Free for Android and iPhone.

CompareMe is the calculator you wish your brain was. It’s for those of us who have stood, humbled, before two similar items whose shelf tags are not comparing prices in the same unit of measurement. CompareMe is a simple calculator that lets you calculate the best deal based on price, product weight and size. It’ll tell you which one is cheaper, and the percentage less you’ll be spending on the better deal. $1.99 for iPhone.

Sale Price is another calculator-style program that helps you keep track of the

final sale price of items in your shopping cart, after accounting for discounts, coupons and sales tax. It’s like that low-tech running tally you used to keep in your head. The app also includes access to a database of coupons. $1.99 for iPhone.

GasBuddy is another must for drivers. It lets you compare up-to-theminute prices at nearby gas stations. The app depends on its community of users to keep prices updated, so for every gas price you upload, you earn points that can be redeemed for prizes. Free for iPhone, Blackberry and Android.

Denise Trowbridge is a self-professed money geek who writes about personal finance, banking and insurance for The Columbus Dispatch, bankrate.com and middlepathfinance.com.

need to know: PEDIATRIC HEALTHSOURCE

EXPERTS FROM NATIONWIDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL ANSWER COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT HEALTH AND SAFETY

Your kids don’t slow down.

Give them something healthy to keep them going.

This might seem like a very minor problem, but with winter’s low humidity, it seems like everyone in the family is prone to getting those painful little paper cuts on their hands. Someone recommended we use a dot of a superglue-type product on them to close them up. Is that safe?

First, you should always consult your primary care physician with questions before deciding on a treatment plan for yourself and your children.

Dr. Stephen Hersey Adhesive glues have been used in the doctor’s office and emergency is a staff physician room for years to close up cuts when indicated. However, these are medin Nationwide Chilically safe and not to be confused with over-the-counter super glue. Super dren’s Hospital’s glue should never be used on minor cuts or wounds.

Section of AmbulaSuper glue can trap harmful bacteria within a cut. Most importantly, the tory Pediatrics and chemicals in super glue can irritate skin and cause pain if applied to an a Clinical Assistant open wound.

Professor of PediThere are safer alternatives to treating and protecting cuts and atrics at The Ohio State University Colscrapes. Be sure to wash all minor wounds with warm soap and water and cover with an adhesive bandage. Use an over-the-counter topical antibiotic lege of Medicine. ointment to prevent infection.

The low humidity results in drier air, which dries out skin and results in more frequent cuts. Combat dry skin by regularly moisturizing and make sure your kids do, too. Some soaps can dry out skin, so it is especially helpful to use soap designed for sensitive skin and apply moisturizing lotion after showering and washing hands.

TIP OF THE MONTH

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None of the sugar.

Helpful Hearing Hints Many children’s toys on the market right now are dangerously loud and can cause permanent hearing loss if used improperly for prolonged periods.

Follow these tips to keep your kids’ ears safe:

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Find the speakers: Toys are typically safer if speakers are located on the bottom of the toy.

Keep some distance: For many toys, 12 inches from the head is a safe distance for proper use.

Test it: Hold the toy up to your ear the way your child might. If it sounds too loud, it likely is.

Take a break: Louder sounds take less time to cause hearing loss, so give these toys a rest every once in a while.

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www.oxywater.com columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

19

need to know: AGE APPROPRIATE: ALLERGIES

Reaction Action When is a child old enough to carry an EpiPen?

BY MELISSA KOSSLER DUTTON

20

1

Skate, ski, and snowboard with a buddy.

2

Always have adults watching children when playing outside.

3

Never let a vehicle pull you on a sled.

4

Tuck scarves, and hood strings in so they don’t get caught on anything.

5

Check with the Parks Department to make sure ice is thick enough to skate on.

6

Protect your brain! Wear a helmet when you sled, skate, ski, snowboard or snowmobile.

| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

When Jordan Friedel gets dressed for school, the Lewis Center girl doesn’t think twice about snapping on the fanny pack that holds her EpiPen Auto Injector.

Carrying epinephrine — the medicine that will counter the effects of an allergic reaction — has become second nature to the 10-year-old.

Jordan, who has a severe peanut and tree nut allergy plus asthma, has worn her medicine around her waist since she started kindergarten at Oak Creek Elementary School in the Olentangy district. The EpiPen that she carries is a shot-like device that contains epinephrine, which reduces the swelling and breathing difficulties associated with an allergic reaction.

“She carries it on her person at all times,” said Jordan’s mother Dena Friedel. “It just makes her feel safe.”

Deciding when to allow children to carry their own medicine is something that many parents of children with food allergies grapple with, said Maria L. Acebal, chief executive officer of The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network, an organization that promotes education and awareness about food allergies.

The question usually arises when youngsters start school and are separated from their parents. Schools typically keep any medicines in the nurse’s office or sometimes with the classroom teacher, but if a school building is large or the child’s allergy is severe enough, parents may prefer that their child have the medicine immediately available at all times.

The answer to the “how old is old enough” question is very child specific, said Acebal from her office in Fairfax, Va. She suggests parents consider the

5+

YEARS

Tips for helping a child become comfortable carrying an EpiPen:

“Rule No. 1 is maturity and per1. Start over the summer so the child is it never comes sonality of their used to it before school starts. out of its plastic child. It’s also a 2. Let the child choose the case that will case unless good idea to dishold the medicine. you’re going to cuss the issue use it,” she said. with the school 3. Educate the child’s class by having a Friedel and officials, the discussion of what food allergies are, her husband, child’s doctor and how to spot symptoms and what to do David, want Jorallergist, she said. in the event of a reaction. Let the dan to wear her Jordan’s parents child’s classmates see the EpiPen and medicine also have made it ask questions about it.

Source: Dena Friedel because she has clear to school had three reacofficials that she tions that required epinephrine injecshould not be expected to administer tions even though she had not ingested the medication herself; the staff is any nuts. The family thinks she trained to do so. touched something that had come in “Just because someone is able to contact with an allergen and then self administer doesn’t mean that she touched her face. should be expected to,” she said. “An Carrying her own EpiPen makes Joradult should be the one to administer.”

The child also must understand the dan feel more comfortable at school, she said: “I feel good about it because seriousness of the medicine, Acebal it makes me feel safe.” said.

MARBURN ACADEMY

need to know: AGE APPROPRIATE: ALLERGIES

More Fun, Less Risk PREPARATION HELPS PLAY DATES WITH FOOD ALLERGIES GO SMOOTHLY

BY ELIZABETH SEUFER Before every play date and sleepover, Connie Rose packs a bag of medication and safe snacks for her 9year-old son, Artie.

He’s highly allergic to eggs and severely allergic to tree nuts.

“I try to make it so (the other parents) don’t have to think about it,” said Rose, of Dublin. “It’s more or less, ‘Here’s the food he can eat, so if he’s hungry, just have him go from his bag.’”

Artie’s never had to use his EpiPen, but suffered a severe skin reaction during a family party and minor skin reactions during play dates.

Local doctor and allergy specialist Summit Shah estimates that five out of every 100 children has a food allergy of some degree.

“The prevalence of food allergies is continuing to rise,” he said. “It’s not something that should inhibit children from participating in school or sports or attending play dates.”

Reactions can range from mild skin rashes to anaphylaxis, Shah said. Signs of anaphylaxis include wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, full body hives and loss of consciousness.

Shah said that before a play date, parents of children with food allergies should educate other parents about the signs of a reaction, which foods may contain the allergen and how to treat reactions. If the parent of the food allergic child is not staying, they should

3+

YEARS

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FREE COMMUNITY PARENT SEMINARS "Correcting Persistent Spelling Errors: The Sources of and the Solutions to the Problems" Tuesday, February 7 • 7:00-9:00 pm "Getting It Down On Paper: The Solution to Student Writing Problems" ALYSIA BURTON PHOTO

Connie and Artie Rose train the other child’s parents how to use the child’s medication.

When Artie was younger, Rose always stuck around for play dates and birthday parties. Now that he’s older, he typically just gets dropped off and prepped beforehand on what he should eat while away from home.

Most parents are very understanding, Rose said.

Some are afraid.

She said that when she explains her son’s food allergy to other parents, she tries to be easygoing about it while still conveying the seriousness of the situation.

“The big thing is understanding their point of view,” Rose said. “Early on, I would get frustrated when I

thought people weren’t listening to me or understanding what I was saying. Then you kind of step back and look at it from their perspective. They don’t have kids with food allergies. They don’t understand and I’m coming at them with ‘Here’s the EpiPen and here’s the snacks.’”

For parents who don’t have children with food allergies, Rose suggests being open-minded and finding ways to make all the children feel included.

“I know, for Artie, he likes to be included and be part of it versus having to be different,” Rose said. “If you don’t understand, it’s okay to say, ‘You know, I don’t really understand. What can they eat?’”

SAFE PLAY DATE GUIDELINES Hosting a child with food allergies? Keep that food out of the child’s reach. Children should wash their hands before eating. The child should bring safe snacks from home or have snacks preapproved by their parents.

Visiting a food allergic child’s home? Removing shoes and washing hands upon entering can help maintain a safe environment. Tell the parents if food is being brought into the home.

Source: Dr. Summit Shah

Tuesday, March 10 • 7:00-9:00 pm RSVP to 614-433-0822 or bdavidson@marburnacademy.org

FREE EARLY READING SCREENING Friday, March 30 • For children aged 5-7

Find out if your child is likely to experience difficulty learning to read, write, or spell.

RSVP Required • Appointments fill up fast! bdavidson@marburnacademy.org or 614-433-0822

Marburn Academy…simply better www.marburnacademy.org columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

21

need to know: AGE APPROPRIATE: ALLERGIES

Early Exposure = Early Solution?

The verdict isn’t in yet about one approach to food allergies

BY HEATHER WEEKLEY

Call or schedule a free introductory class online.

Polaris www.TLGPolarisOh.com 614.430.3355

22

| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

Even if your child doesn’t have food allergies, most parents know which foods most often ignite allergic reactions: nuts, wheat, eggs and milk.

But what do you do if you fear your child has a food allergy? Early exposure to highly allergenic foods like nuts or milk can either help or hinder the longterm effects of a food allergy.

“It’s a topic that even allergists (are) still trying to figure out,” said Dr. Summit Shah, a local allergy specialist. “We are not exposing our kids to as many different antigens as we were years ago. Immune systems are becoming more sensitive and we are seeing more food allergies.”

Peanuts and tree nuts are typically introduced into a child’s diet around the age of 2. But Shah recommends waiting if there is reason to believe an allergy is present. This includes a family history, like an older sibling who has an intolerance to the same food.

“If you have no family history, or haven’t been exposed, there is no reason to not introduce a certain food,” explained Shah.

Benefits to early exposure include the outgrowing of certain allergies.

Young children may show signs of an allergy to milk or eggs, but their systems shed the allergy several years later. Others may be diagnosed with an allergy through testing, but remain asymptomatic.

“Research shows that if a child can still tolerate a food, continuing to expose kids to that food can help them,” said Shah.

But an early introduction and diagnosis of an allergy also could mean a development of an allergy to a similar product. Wait to incorporate tree nuts into a child’s diet if a peanut allergy is found at age 1 or 2. While it’s not the same with every food, said Shah, there is definitely an increased risk.

When it was determined that her 6month-old son Stephen had a peanut allergy, Kelli Scott of Sugar Grove was advised to keep him away from all peanuts and tree nuts. The Scotts also were told that their son could not see an allergist until he was 3. While they were given wrong information (children may be seen prior to that), it forced them to be extremely careful about what Stephen ate.

Now 16, Stephen still has allergies to peanuts, walnuts, fish, avocados and bananas.

“His list used to be a lot longer, but some foods have come off the list,” said Scott. “Some of those foods can still only be eaten a little at a time, as in peas and soy.”

Dr. Roger Friedman, also a Central Ohio allergist, debunked the notion that decreasing or increasing exposure to foods can rid someone of an allergy but noted that other plans are in the works for treatment.

“Because allergies can be so severe,” said Friedman, “we’ve been trying to come up with a way to desensitize people to them. We’re on the cusp of getting treatment for food allergies.”

IS IT AN ALLERGY? What should you do if your child has sampled a new type of food and shows even a moderate sensitivity to it (like a rash, diarrhea or stomach ache)? Dr. Summit Shah offers these tips: • Immediately remove the food from the diet and identify anything else that also contains that food.

• Have skin or blood tested by an allergist or pediatrician.

• Educate yourself about the allergy.

Learn how to read labels and how to handle social situations.

1+

YEARS

!

PLUS

-TO O G R OU UIDE:se a G to Choo ou How l When Y e o Scho e a Choic v a H

COLUMBUS PARENT’S COMPREHENSIVE DIRECTORY OF 238 PUBLIC, PRIVATE AND PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS IN CENTRAL OHIO columbusparent.com | Central Ohio Schools Directory 2012 |

1

hot topic: SCHOOLS THE GO-TO GUIDE

How to Choose a School WHEN YOU HAVE A CHOICE

BY HEATHER WEEKLEY AND JANE HAWES

Gone are the days when “choosing a school” meant you were opting out of the publicschool system. Nowadays, within the public and private school systems, there are a variety of choices. To help Columbus parents navigate this process, we have compiled some useful information with help from School Choice Ohio (a non-profit organization that provides resources and support to families), the Ohio Department of Education, and local educators and administrators.

KEY TERMS • PUBLIC SCHOOLS: traditional publicly-funded schools, operated by a local school district and board of education • MAGNET/LOTTERY SCHOOLS: public schools offering specialized curricula; they may have competitive entry procedures • CHARTER SCHOOLS: public schools operated on different state guidelines and also called “community” schools; they sometimes focus on particular teaching philosophies or subject areas, but are not based on religious faith.

• PRIVATE SCHOOLS: charge tuition and are largely independent from the public-school system • PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS: charge tuition and include religious instruction as part of their mission and daily curricula • HOMESCHOOL: when parents educate their children on their own • ROLLING ADMISSIONS: Students can apply and be admitted at any point in the school year. In a non-rolling admissions system, applications generally are made by early February with acceptance notification coming on March 1.

2

DEFINING WHAT’S IMPORTANT TO YOU If you’re looking beyond a traditional public school, any school you’re considering is likely to occupy its own niche: “We really do have our own flavors,” said John Wuorinen, Columbus Academy’s Director of Admissions and Financial Aid. “Each school has its own ethos and character.”

So learn what those flavors are, and then find the one that best satisfies your child’s appetite for learning. Here are some of the issues that many parents use to narrow down their choices: • CLASS SIZE: All the educators we spoke to said this is probably the most popular issue when parents are considering a school that charges tuition.

• SAFETY: “This one has really stood out in the last 5 to 10 years,” said Scott Burton, Marburn Academy’s associate head of school. “Usually we think physical safety, but it’s also about emotional, particularly with things like cyberbullying now.”

• RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION

DOING THE RESEARCH • Start early, at least eight months prior to the start of a new school year, say school administrators, and be mindful of the various deadlines (whether applying for admission or financial aid).

• Visit a school during open houses and during a normal school day

• YOUR CHILD’S AGE: In the middle-school and high-school age groups, educators say that the child should be very involved in making the decision about where to go to school.

• Talk to other parents and students at the school: “The grapevine is a fantastic resource,” said Wuorinen.

• ”AFFINITY-BASED PROGRAMS”: This is the new term for extracurricular activities. These, said Burton, are “just as important (as core classes) for many kids, and colleges are taking a closer look at these now.”

• Check out these websites: scohio.org; education.ohio.gov; greatschools.org/ohio; ilrc.ode.state.oh.us; and pickyparent.com (also offers a companion workbook to aid in decision making)

| Central Ohio Schools Directory 2012 | columbusparent.com

Your child’s future starts now.

There is a proven positive association between music lessons and superior academic performance.

PAYING FOR IT Families might be tempted to rule out a school that charges tuition once they see the price tag, but they shouldn’t because scholarships and financial aid aren’t just for college anymore:

PUBLIC SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS The state of Ohio has three types of scholarships available to qualified students:

• EdChoice Scholarship Program: Gives students who attend the lowest-rated schools in Ohio the opportunity to attend a private school (about 25,000 children in Columbus currently qualify). “It’s the best kept secret in the state!” said Sarah Pechan, director of community programs with School Choice Ohio. EdChoice provides up to $4,250 a year for K-8 students and up to $5,000 for high-school students. It’s up to the tuition-charging school to decide if they’ll accept this scholarship money. The 2012 deadline for scholarship applications is April 13.

• Autism Scholarship: Any child in Ohio between the ages of 3 and 22 who has autism can apply. Recipients receive up to $20,000 in tuition.

• Special Needs Scholarship: Currently in its first year, this fund is for a child with a special learning need or disability. Scholarships range from $7,000 to $20,000.

To learn more about these scholarship programs and their deadlines, visit the Ohio Department of Education page at www.ode.state.oh.us/GD/Templates/Pages/ODE/ODEPri-

mary.aspx?Page=2&TopicID=1898&TopicRelationID=661

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•

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PRIVATE SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS Most private schools, and even many parochial schools, have access to either grants or endowment money (interest-earning investments) that enable them to offer students financial aid. Most private scholarships are based on demonstrated financial need, but there can be scholarships based on merit.

Just ask what’s available, say school representatives: “If a family is really interested, there are options,” said Village Academy Head of School Susan Lasley.

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columbusparent.com | Central Ohio Schools Directory 2012 |

3

hot topic: SCHOOLS COLUMBUS PARENT’S

Central Ohio Schools Directory Columbus Parent has compiled its first-ever guide to public, private and parochial schools in Central Ohio.

We have organized this directory by: 1) By county first (including Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Pickaway and Union counties); 2) Then by school type: Public School Districts; Other Publicly Funded Schools (including charter, online and vocational schools); Private/Non-Religious Schools; and Private/Religious Schools.

Within each school-type category, the schools are listed alphabetically.

Our sources included: 1) Ohio Department of Education (ODE) data 2) Roman Catholic Diocese of Columbus data 3) Information from schools’ websites and/or phone interviews About this information: 1) In order to be listed, a school had to offer at least a full kindergarten, grade-school and/or high-school program.

2) Tuition information, unless otherwise noted, is for the 2011-12 school year. Most schools have not yet determined their 2012-13 tuition.

3) Public School District ratings are from the ODE and reflect the most recent data available (from the 2010-11 school year).

4) If any information is incomplete or incorrect, or if you wish to include a school that is not listed, please send an email to contact@columbusparent.com.

5) Enhanced, paid listings (highlighted in orange) feature additional information

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Delaware County PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS

DUBLIN MONTESSORI ACADEMY Tuition: Call for more information Contact: 10465 Sawmill Rd., Powell 43065; 614-761-2020 Grades/Number of students: PS-K/ 132

BIG WALNUT LOCAL

VILLAGE ACADEMY SCHOOLS

Contact: 70 N. Walnut St., Galena 43021; 740-965-3010; bigwalnut.k12.oh.us Number of students: 2,696 District rating: Excellent

Year Founded: 1976 Tuition: ranges from $9,565.00 to $12,500; financial aid is available to those who qualify Address: 284 S. Liberty St., Powell 43065 Phone: 614-841-0050 Website: villageacademyschools.org Grades served: PK to Grade 12; beforeand after-school care programs offered Number of students: 365 Number of faculty: 39 Member of: National Association of Independent Schools, Independent Schools Association of the Central States, Ohio Association of Independent Schools

BUCKEYE VALLEY LOCAL Contact: 679 Coover Rd., Delaware 43015; 740-369-8735; buckeyevalley.k12.oh.us Number of students: 2,209 District rating: Excellent

DELAWARE CITY Contact: 248 N. Washington St., Delaware 43015; 740-833-1100; dcs.k12.oh.us Number of students: 5,198 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

OLENTANGY LOCAL Contact: 814 Shanahan Rd., Ste. 100, Lewis Center 43035; 740-657-4050; olentangy.k12.oh.us Number of students: 17,415 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

OTHER PUBLICLY FUNDED SCHOOLS

DELAWARE AREA CAREER CENTER (TWO CAMPUSES) Contact: 4565 Columbus Pike, Delaware 43015; 740-548-0708; delawareareacc.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12 and adult/ not available

PRIVATE/NON-RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS

THE COMPASS SCHOOL Tuition: Varies by age, call for more information Contact: 3989 N. Hampton Dr., Powell; 614-764-8844; aboutcompass.com/locations/powell Grades/Number of students: PS-K/ 170

| Central Ohio Schools Directory 2012 | columbusparent.com

PRIVATE/RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS

DELAWARE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Christian Year Founded: 1973 Tuition: $220-$472 per month; financial aid is available; sibling discounts, up to 50 percent, are available Address: 45 Belle Ave., Delaware 43015 Phone: 740-363-8425 Website: dcschool.org Grades served: PK to Grade 12; afterschool care program offered Number of students: 303 Number of faculty: 35 Member of: Association of Christian Schools International

Contact: 340 Lake St., Delaware 43015; 740-363-5800; startwiththeheartschool.com Grades/Number of students: PS-7/ 99

POLARIS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Religious Affiliation: Christian Tuition: $4,658 Contact: 7562 Lewis Center Rd., Westerville 43082; 740-965-5433; genoachristianacadcemy.org Grades/Number of students: PK-8/ 322

GRACE COMMUNITY SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Christian Tuition: $3,360

Contact: 6417 Cincinnati Zanesville Rd., Lancaster 43130; 740-536-7384; fairfieldunion.k12.oh.us Number of students: 2,032 District rating: Effective

Religious Affiliation: Christian Tuition: $4,750-$4,850 Contact: 2150 E. Powell Rd., Lewis Center 43035; 614-431-6888; pcalions.com Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 141

LANCASTER CITY

ST. MARY SCHOOL

LIBERTY UNION-THURSTON LOCAL

Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $2,847 for participating families; $4,286 non-participating Contact: 66 E. William St., Delaware 43015; 740-362-8961; stmarydelaware.org Grades/Number of students: PS-8/ 385

Contact: 345 E. Mulberry St., Lancaster 43130; 740-687-7300; lancaster.k12.oh.us Number of students: 6,023 District rating: Excellent

Contact: 621 W. Washington St., Baltimore 43105; 740-862-4171; libertyunion.org Number of students: 1,346 District rating: Excellent

PICKERINGTON LOCAL ST. PAUL SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $3,590 for participating families; $4,340 non-participating Contact: 61 Moss Rd., Westerville 43082; 614-882-2710; stpaulrams.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 833

Fairfield County

Contact: 90 East St., Pickerington 43147; 614-833-2110; pickerington.k12.oh.us Number of students: 10,805 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

WALNUT TOWNSHIP LOCAL Contact: 11850 Lancaster St., Millersport 43046; 740-467-2802; walnuttsd.org Number of students: 740 District rating: Effective

OTHER PUBLICLY FUNDED SCHOOLS

PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS

AMANDA-CLEARCREEK LOCAL Contact: 328 E. Main St., Amanda 43102; 740-969-7250; amanda.k12.oh.us Number of students: 1,630 District rating: Effective

BERNE UNION LOCAL GENOA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

FAIRFIELD UNION LOCAL

Contact: 506 N. Main St., Sugar Grove 43115; 740-746-8341; berneunion.k12.oh.us Number of students: 999 District rating: Excellent

LANCASTER DIGITAL ACADEMY Contact: 111 S. Broad St. Suite 201, Lancaster 43130; 740-277-7450; lancasterdigitalacademy.org Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 81 School rating: Not Rated

LANCASTER FAIRFIELD COMMUNITY Contact: 320 E. Locust St., Lancaster 43130; 740-652-7200 Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 60 School rating: Continuous Improvement

BLOOM-CARROLL LOCAL

PCSI

Contact: 5240 Plum Rd., Carroll 43112; 614-837-6560; bloom-carroll.k12.oh.us Number of students: 1,653 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

Contact: 7800 Refugee Rd., Pickerington 43147; 614-830-2755 Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 50 Number of students: Not Rated

PRIVATE/RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS

Number of students: 3,066 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

Number of students: 7,251 District rating: Excellent

Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 125 School Rating: Academic Emergency

SOUTH-WESTERN CITY FAIRFIELD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Religious Affiliation: Christian Tuition: $1,140-$4,830 Contact: 1965 N. Columbus St., Lancaster 43130; 740-654-2889; fairfieldchristianacademy.com Grades/Number of students: PS-12/675

LANCASTER SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Seventh-Day Adventist Tuition: Call for more information Contact: 2640 Lancaster-Thornville Rd., Lancaster 43130; 740-687-1741 Grades/Number of students: 1-8/ 7

ST. BERNADETTE SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $2,600 for participating families; $4,000 non-participating Contact: 1325 Wheeling Rd. NW, Lancaster 43130; 740-654-3137; stbernadetteschool.com Grades/Number of students: PS-5/ 159

ST. MARY CATHOLIC SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $2,800 for participating families; $4,300 non-participating Contact: 309 E. Chestnut St., Lancaster 43130; 740-654-1632; saintmarylancaster.com Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 279

WILLIAM V. FISHER CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $5,500 for participating families; $5,825 non-participating Contact: 1803 Granville Pike, Lancaster 43130; 740-654-1231; fishercatholic.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 235

Franklin County PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS

BEXLEY CITY Contact: 248 S. Cassingham Rd., Bexley 43209; 614-231-7611; bexleyschools.org Number of students: 2,095 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

COLUMBUS CITY Contact: 270 E. State St., Columbus 43215; 614-365-5000; columbus.k12.oh.us Number of students: 48,601* District rating: Continuous Improvement *does not include buildings where data was not provided in the ODE report: Columbus Downtown HS, Columbus International HS, Columbus Prep Middle Schools, Fort Hayes, Hudson Adult

DUBLIN CITY Contact: 7030 Coffman Rd., Dublin 43017; 614-764-5913; dublinschools.net Number of students: 13,028 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

GAHANNA-JEFFERSON CITY Contact: 160 S. Hamilton Rd., Gahanna 43230; 614-471-7065; gahannaschools.org Number of students: 6,729 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

GRANDVIEW HEIGHTS CITY Contact: 1587 W 3rd Ave., Columbus 43212; 614-481-3600; grandviewschools.org Number of students: 1,137 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

GROVEPORT MADISON LOCAL Contact: 5940 Clyde Moore Dr., Groveport 43125; 614-492-2520; gocruisers.org Number of students: 5,972 District rating: Excellent

HAMILTON LOCAL Contact: 775 Rathmell Rd., Columbus 43207; 614-491-8044; hamiltonlocal.k12.oh.us Number of students: 2,925 District rating: Effective

UPPER ARLINGTON CITY Contact: 1950 N Mallway Dr., Upper Arlington 43221; 614-487-5000; uaschools.org Number of students: 5,202 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

WESTERVILLE CITY Contact: 936 Eastwind Dr., Westerville 43081; 614-797-5700; westerville.k12.oh.us Number of students: 14,462 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

WHITEHALL CITY Contact: 625 S Yearling Rd., Whitehall 43213; 614-417-5000; whitehall.k12.oh.us Number of students: 2,966* District rating: Continuous Improvement *does not include buildings where data was not provided in the ODE report: C. Ray Williams Early Childhood Center

WORTHINGTON CITY Contact: 200 E. Wilson Bridge Rd., Worthington 43085; 614-883-3000; worthington.k12.oh.us Number of students: 9,536 District rating: Excellent

OTHER PUBLICLY FUNDED SCHOOLS

A+ ARTS ACADEMY HILLIARD CITY Contact: 5323 Cemetery Rd., Hilliard 43026; 614-921-7000; hilliardschools.org Number of students: 15,731 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

Focus: core academic classes within a small school environment Contact: 270 S Napoleon Ave., Columbus 43213; 614-338-0767; aplusarts.com Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 120 School Rating: Effective

NEW ALBANY-PLAIN LOCAL Contact: 55 N. High St., New Albany 43054; 614-855-2040; napls.us Number of students: 3,611 District rating: Excellent

CANAL WINCHESTER LOCAL Contact: 100 Washington St., Canal Winchester 43110; 614-837-4533; canalwin.k12.oh.us

Contact: 3805 Marlane Dr., Grove City 43123; 614-801-3000; www.swcs.k12.oh.us Number of students: 23,353* District rating: Excellent *does not include buildings where data was not provided in the ODE report: Bostic Head Start Center, South-Western Career Academy, South-Western Special Education Preschool Center

REYNOLDSBURG CITY Contact: 7244 E Main St., Reynoldsburg 43068; 614-501-1020; reyn.org

ACADEMIC ACCELERATION ACADEMY Focus: traditional academic courses; only charter school sponsored by Columbus City Schools Contact: 1990 Jefferson Ave., Columbus 43211; 614-298-4742; academic-acceleration.com

ACADEMY FOR URBAN SOLUTIONS Contact: 899 E. Broad St., Ste. 450, Columbus 43205; 614-545-9890 Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ not available School Rating: Not Rated

ACADEMY OF COLUMBUS Focus: phonics, basic skills, arts-integrated curriculum, moral/character education Contact: 4656 Heaton Rd., Columbus 43229; 614-433-7510; ohioschools.org/ourschools/AcademyofColumbus.htm Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 475 School Rating: Academic Emergency

ACADEMY OF NEW MEDIA MIDDLE SCHOOL Focus: technology-rich curriculum, emphasis on personal safety and accountability Contact: 43 South Douglass St., Columbus 43205; 614-252-4441; newmediamiddle.org Grades/Number of students: 6-8/ 250 School Rating: Not Rated

ARTS & COLLEGE PREPARATORY ACADEMY Focus: academic instruction with opportunities to engage in artistic expression Address: 4401 Hilton Corporate Dr., Columbus 43232 Phone: 614-986-9974 Website: artcollegeprep.org Grades served: Grades 9 to 12 Number of students: 230 School Rating: Excellent

C.M. GRANT LEADERSHIP ACADEMY Focus: core curriculum, enhanced leadership and service learning education Contact: 2030 Leonard Ave., Columbus 43219; 614-252-2087; grantleadership.com Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 162 School Rating: Academic Emergency

CESAR CHAVEZ-NORTH Focus: emphasizes basic language arts and math skills through intensive direction instruction, offers mid-year kindergarten classes, owned by Educational Solutions Company Contact: 1533 Cleveland Ave., Columbus 43211; 614-297-8801; wccupe.com Grades/Number of students: K-5/ 70 School Rating: Academic Watch

CHARLES SCHOOL AT OHIO DOMINICAN UNIVERSITY Focus: accelerated academic program

with hands-on experiential learning; five-year program earns high school diploma and 62 college credits Contact: 3950 Indianola Ave., Columbus 43214; 614-262-1111; thecharlesschool.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 200 School Rating: Effective

COLUMBUS ARTS & TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY Focus: core curriculum with focus on arts and applied technology; mentoring programs with community artists Contact: 2255 Kimberly Pkwy E., Columbus 43232; 614-577-0900; ohioschools.org/ourschools/ColumbusArtsandTechnologyAcademy.htm Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 417 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

COLUMBUS BILINGUAL ACADEMY Focus: develops fluency and literacy in English and Spanish Contact: 35 Midland Ave., Columbus 43223; 614-324-1492; columbusbilingual.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 200 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

COLUMBUS BILINGUAL ACADEMY-NORTH Focus: develops fluency and literacy in English and Spanish Contact: 1567 Loretta Ave., Columbus 43211; 614-525-0309; columbusbilingual.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 100 School Rating: Academic Watch

COLUMBUS COLLEGIATE ACADEMY Focus: extended school year (190 days) and school day (9-10 hours), code of conduct, Saturday college trips Address: 1469 E. Main St., Columbus 43205 Phone: 614-299-5284 Website: columbuscollegiate.org Grades served: Grades 6 to 8 Number of students: 103 School Rating: Effective

COLUMBUS HUMANITIES, ARTS AND TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY Focus: uses SRA reading and math programs, Harcourt Science and Paragon Curriculum for social sciences Contact: 1333 Morse Rd., Columbus 43229; 614-261-1200; columbushumanitiesata.org Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 401 School Rating: Academic Watch

COLUMBUS NORTH LIFE SKILLS Focus: alternative high school for at-risk and drop-out students, uses individualized learning plans and support services, owned by White Hat Management Contact: 1900 E. Dublin-Granville Rd. S., Columbus 43229; 614-891-9041; wediducan.com/columbus-north2 Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 400 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

COLUMBUS PERFORMANCE ACADEMY Focus: academic and physical fitness emphasis with 1.4 hours of fitness activities each day Contact: 274 E. First Ave., Ste. 200, Columbus 43201; 614-318-0720; performanceacademies.com/columbus/colum bus_welcome.html Grades/Number of students: K-7/ 51 School Rating: Not Rated

COLUMBUS PREPARATORY AND FITNESS ACADEMY Focus: extended school day (8 a.m.-4 p.m.) with minimum 90 minutes of fitness instruction each day Contact: 1258 Demorest Rd., Columbus 43204; 614-318-0606; ohioschools.org/ourschools/ColumbusPreparatoryandFitnessAcademy.htm Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 100 School Rating: Academic Watch

COLUMBUS PREPARATORY ACADEMY Focus: uses SRA reading and math programs, Harcourt Science and Paragon Curriculum for social sciences Contact: 3330 Chippewa St., Columbus 43204; 614-275-3600; columbuspreparatory.org Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 684 School Rating: Excellent with Distinction

COLUMBUS SOUTHEAST LIFE SKILLS Focus: alternative high school for at-risk and drop-out students, uses individualized learning plans and support services, owned by White Hat Management Contact: 2400 S. Hamilton Rd., Columbus 43232; 614-863-9175; wediducan.com/columbus-southeast2 Grades/Number of students: 9-12; 300 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

CORNERSTONE ACADEMY COMMUNITY Focus: uses Paragon Curriculum Contact: 6015 E Walnut St., Westerville 43081; 614-775-0615; cornerstoneacad.org Grades/Number of students: K-12; 393 School Rating: Effective

columbusparent.com | Central Ohio Schools Directory 2012 |

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CRITTENTON COMMUNITY SCHOOL Focus: uses alternative learning methods individualized for each student, partners with the Directions for Youth & Families agency Contact: 1418 E. Broad St., Columbus 43205; 614-372-2401; e-ccs.org Grades/Number of students: 6-9/ 110 School Rating: Academic Emergency

CRUISER ACADEMY HIGH Focus: accelerated high-school program, assists students who have may fallen behind in a traditional setting, part of Groveport Madison Local School District Contact: 2751 Winchester Pike, Columbus 43232; 614-237-8756; gocruisers.org/cruiseracademy_home.aspx Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 200 School Rating: Academic Emergency

EDUCATIONAL ACADEMY AT LINDEN Focus: college-prep curriculum focused on literature, arts and mathematics; owned by Educational Solutions Company Contact: 720 Mt. Vernon Ave., Columbus 43203; 614-252-7611; educationalsolutionsco.com/la Grades/Number of students: 3-5/ 250 School Rating: Academic Watch

EDUCATIONAL ACADEMY FOR BOYS & GIRLS/CESAR CHAVEZ-WEST COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL Focus: emphasizes basic language arts and math skills through intensive direction instruction, owned by Educational Solutions Company Contact: 85 Clarendon Ave., Columbus 43223; 614-351-1774; wccupe.com

Grades/Number of students: K-5/ 200 (according to ODE data for the EABG K12 school) School Rating: Not Rated

ELECTRONIC CLASSROOM OF TOMORROW Focus: online school, established in 2000 Contact: 3700 S High St., Ste. 95, Columbus 43207; 614-492-8884; ecotohio.org Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 10,500 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

FCI ACADEMY Focus: FCI stands for Focus on Collective Integrity, college prep curriculum, five building campus Contact: 2177 Mock Rd., Columbus 43219; 614-471-4527; fciacademy.com Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 550 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

FOCUS LEARNING ACADEMY OF NORTH COLUMBUS Focus: enables students, ages 16-22, to earn high-school diploma while preparing for workforce or while already earning a living Contact: 4807 Evanswood Dr., Columbus 43229; 614-310-0430; focuslearn.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 175 School Rating: Academic Emergency

FOCUS LEARNING ACADEMY OF SOUTHEASTERN COLUMBUS Focus: enables students, ages 16-22, to earn high-school diploma while preparing for workforce or while already earning a living

Contact: 4480 Refugee Rd., Columbus 43232; 614-269-0150; focuslearn.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 600 School Rating: Academic Emergency

FOCUS LEARNING ACADEMY OF SOUTHWEST COLUMBUS Focus: enables students, ages 16-22, to earn high-school diploma while preparing for workforce or while already earning a living Contact: 190 Southwood Ave., Columbus 43207; 614-545-2000; focuslearn.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 450 School Rating: Academic Watch

GAHANNA COMMUNITY SCHOOL Focus: sponsored by the Gahanna-Jefferson City School District, collocated on campus of Gahanna Lincoln High School, features more self-paced structure with flexible scheduling and workstudy credit Contact: 140 S. Hamilton Rd., Gahanna 43230; 614-478-5515; gahannaschools.org/Schools/Lincoln_ High_School/Activities/Gahanna CommunitySchool.aspx Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 25 School Rating: Effective

GRAHAM EXPEDITIONARY MIDDLE SCHOOL Focus: uses expeditionary learning model, post-secondary education prep curriculum, uses some of the same principles as the Outward Bound program Contact: 3950 Indianola Ave., Columbus 43214; 614-262-1111; gemsschool.org Grades/Number of students: 5-8/ 160 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

GRAHAM SCHOOL, THE Focus: uses experiential learning methods, serves urban community, preparation for college and workplace emphasized Contact: 3950 Indianola Ave., Columbus 43214; 614-262-1111; thegrahamschool.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 240 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

GREAT WESTERN ACADEMY Focus: uses Direct Instruction, Balanced Literacy, Saxon Math and Full Option Science System programs, part of the Imagine Schools system Contact: 310 N. Wilson Rd., Columbus 43204; 614-276-1028; imagineschools gwa.com Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 340 School Rating: Effective

GROVEPORT COMMUNITY SCHOOL Focus: part of the Imagine Schools system Contact: 4485 S. Hamilton Rd., Groveport 43125; 614-574-4100; imagineschoolsgpt.com Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 1,000 School Rating: Academic Watch

HARRISBURG PIKE COMMUNITY SCHOOL Focus: part of Imagine Schools system Contact: 680 Harrisburg Pike, Columbus 43223; 614-223-1510; harrisburgpikehornets.com Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 277 School Rating: Academic Watch

HORIZON SCIENCE ACADEMY COLUMBUS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Focus: math, science and technology focused curriculum; managed by Concept Schools Contact: 2835 Morse Rd., Columbus 43231; 614-475-4585; horizoncolumbus.org Grades/Number of students: K-5/ 300 School Rating: Effective

HORIZON SCIENCE ACADEMY COLUMBUS HIGH SCHOOL Focus: math, science and technology focused curriculum; managed by Concept Schools Contact: 1070 Morse Rd., Columbus 43229; 614-846-7616; horizoncolumbus.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 350 School Rating: Excellent

HORIZON SCIENCE ACADEMY COLUMBUS MIDDLE SCHOOL

HAMILTON ALTERNATIVE ACADEMY Focus: part of Hamilton Local School District, encompasses programs for online learning, credits recovery, specialneeds learning Contact: 775 Rathmell Rd., Columbus 43207; 614-491-8044; hamiltonlocal.k12.oh.us/alternativeacademy_ho me.aspx Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 98 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

Focus: math, science and technology focused curriculum; managed by Concept Schools Contact: 2350 Morse Rd., Columbus 43229; 614-428-6564; horizoncolumbus.org Grades/Number of students: 6-8/ 300 School Rating: Effective

IMAGINE ACADEMY AT SULLIVANT Focus: uses Reading Street and Every-

day Mathematics curricula, part of the Imagine Schools system Contact: 3435 Sullivant Ave., Columbus 43204; 614-308-5991; imaginesullivant.com Grades/Number of students: K-6/ 387 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

IMAGINE INTEGRITY ACADEMY Focus: part of the Imagine Schools system Contact: 1565 Integrity Dr., Columbus 43209; 614-464-1500; imagineschools.com/2011/04/imagineintegrity-academy Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 150 School Rating: Not Rated

INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OF COLUMBUS Focus: includes an Arabic-as-secondlanguage instruction program Contact: 1201 Shrock Ct., Columbus 43229; 614-844-5539; iac-school.com Grades/Number of students: K-10/ 220 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

KIPP: JOURNEY ACADEMY MIDDLE Focus: part of the national Knowledge Is Power Program (KIPP), which focuses on students in underserved communities Contact: 1406 Myrtle Ave., Columbus 43211; 614-263-6137; kipp.org/schoolcontent/kipp-journey-academy Grades/Number of students: 5-8/ 243 School Rating: Effective

MIDNIMO CROSS CULTURAL COMMUNITY SCHOOL Focus: serves multicultural urban population; emphasizes family involvement, access to technology, student governance; owned by Educational Solutions Company

Northside Christian School Prospective Parent Open House Feb. 2nd, 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 6

| Central Ohio Schools Directory 2012 | columbusparent.com

Contact: 1465 Oakland Park Ave., Columbus 43224; 614-261-7480; wccupe.com Grades/Number of students: 6-9/ 200 School Rating: Academic Emergency

MILLENNIUM COMMUNITY SCHOOL Focus: operates in three grade-based communities, uses Direct Instruction program, sponsored by Educational Resource Consultants of Ohio Contact: 3500 Refugee Rd., Columbus 43232; 614-255-5585; 2kschool.com Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 600 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

NEW BEGINNINGS ACADEMY Focus: sponsored by Educational Resource Consultants of Ohio Contact: 4707 Hilton Corporate Dr., Columbus 43232; 614-237-9540, ercoinc.org Grades/Number of students: 8-12/ not available School Rating: Not Rated

NOBLE ACADEMYCOLUMBUS Focus: college prep curriculum, managed by Concept Schools Contact: 1329 Bethel Rd., Columbus 43220; 614-326-0687; noblecolumbus.org Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 200 School Rating: Effective

NORTHLAND PREPARATORY AND FITNESS ACADEMY Contact: 1875 Morse Rd., Columbus 43229; 614-318-0600 Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 200 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

OAKSTONE COMMUNITY SCHOOL HIGH Contact: 5747 Cleveland Ave., Columbus 43231; 614-865-9643 Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 236 School Rating: Excellent

PATRIOT PREPARATORY ACADEMY Contact: 4938 Beatrice Dr., Columbus 43227; 614-864-5332 Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 466 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

PERFORMANCE ACADEMY EASTLAND

RCCS EVEREST ACADEMY Contact: 1555 Graham Rd., Reynoldsburg 43068; 614-367-1980; rccseverest.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 50 School Rating: Academic Emergency

RENAISSANCE ACADEMY FOR MEDIA ARTS Focus: operates on four-day core curriculum schedule with special classes on fifth day; sponsored by Educational Resource Consultants of Ohio Contact: 4300 Kimberly Pkwy N., Columbus 43232; 614-866-7277; therenaissanceacademy.com Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 200 School Rating: Not Rated

Focus: extended school day (8 a.m.-4 p.m.), minimum 90 minutes fitness instruction each day Contact: 2220 S. Hamilton Rd., Columbus 43232; 614-314-6301 Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 244 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

ROAD TO SUCCESS ACADEMY

PREMIER ACADEMY OF OHIO HIGH

SCHOLARTS PREPARATORY AND CAREER CENTER

Focus: sponsored by Educational Resource Consultants of Ohio Contact: 1555 Elaine Rd., Columbus 43227; 614-501-3820; ercoinc.org Grades/Number of students: 6-12/ 210 School Rating: Academic Watch

Focus: mentoring and support-services programs, arts-integrated curriculum, early exposure to career planning Contact: 907 E. Lexington Ave., Columbus 43201; 614-224-1610; scholarts.org Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 200 School Rating: Academic Emergency

PSCHTECIN HIGH SCHOOL

SOUTH SCIOTO ACADEMY

Focus: serves students ages 14-21, split daily sessions from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. or 1-6 p.m., individualized learning plans Contact: 985 Mediterranean Ave., Columbus 43229; 614-985-3428; pschtecin.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 80 School Rating: Academic Emergency

Focus: emphasis on critical thinking and diversity, managed by The Leona Group Contact: 707 E. Jenkins Ave., Columbus 43207; 614-445-7684; sciotoacademy.com Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 148 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

Focus: sponsored by Educational Resource Consultants of Ohio Contact: 1555 Bryden Rd., Columbus 43205; 614-421-5838; ercoinc.org Grades/Number of students: 8-12/ not available School Rating: Not Rated

SUMMIT ACADEMY ELEMENTARY

W. C. CUPE COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Focus: specializes in the education of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Asperger’s Syndrome Contact: 1850 Bostwick Rd., Ste. 100, Columbus 43227; 614-237-5497; summitacademies.com/school_websites/su mmit_academy_community_school_co lumbus/index.php Grades/Number of students: K-5/ 27 School Rating: Not Rated

Focus: emphasizes basic language arts and math skills through intensive direction instruction, owned by Educational Solutions Company Contact: 1132 Windsor Ave., Columbus 43211; 614-299-1107; wccupe.com Grades/Number of students: K-5/ 200 School Rating: Not Rated

SUMMIT ACADEMY MIDDLE SCHOOL Focus: specializes in the education of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Asperger’s Syndrome Contact: 1850 Bostwick Rd., Ste. 200, Columbus 43227; 614-237-5497; summitacademies.com/school_websites/su mmit_academy_middle_school_colum bus/index.php Grades/Number of students: 6-8/ 49 School Rating: Academic Emergency

SUMMIT ACADEMY TRANSITION HIGH SCHOOL Focus: specializes in the education of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Asperger’s Syndrome Contact: 1855 E. Dublin-Granville Rd., Columbus 43229; 614-880-0714; summitacademies.com/school_websites/su mmit_academy_transition_high_school _columbus/index.php Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 29 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

VIRTUAL COMMUNITY SCHOOL OF OHIO Focus: online school Contact: 4480 Refugee Rd., Columbus 43232; 614-501-9473; vcslearn.org Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 1,300 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

WESTSIDE ACADEMY Focus: includes English as Second Language, Spanish and Arabic instruction; onsite daycare facility Contact: 4330 Clime Rd. North, Columbus 43228; 614-272-9392; westsideacademy.com Grades/Number of students: K-4/ 149 School Rating: Effective

WHITEHALL PREPARATORY AND FITNESS ACADEMY Focus: extended school day (8 a.m.-4 p.m.) with minimum 90 minutes of fitness instruction each day Contact: 3474 E. Livingston Ave., Columbus 43227; 614-324-4585; URL Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 199 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

WICKLIFFE PROGRESSIVE COMMUNITY SCHOOL Focus: part of Upper Arlington City School District, utilizes principles of progressive education Contact: 1950 N. Mallway Dr., Upper Arlington 43221; 614-487-5150; uaschools.org/index.aspx?NID=153 Grades/Number of students: K-5/ 456 School Rating: Excellent with Distinction

YOUTHBUILD COLUMBUS COMMUNITY Focus: drop-out recovery program for youths ages 17-21 who also learn resi-

dential-construction or nurse-assisting job skills Contact: 1183 Essex Ave., Columbus 43201; 614-291-0805; youthbuildcolumbus.info Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 130 School Rating: Excellent

ZENITH ACADEMY HIGH Focus: focuses on mastery of core knowledge and skills, sponsored by Educational Resource Consultants of Ohio Contact: 8210 Havens Rd., Blacklick 43004; 614-419-6753; zenithacademy.org Grades/Number of students: K-9/ 450 School Rating: Continuous Improvement

ZENITH ACADEMY EAST JR. HIGH Contact: 2261 S. Hamilton Rd., Columbus 43232; 614-577-0999 Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 200 School Rating: Not Rated

PRIVATE/NON-RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS

CHILDREN’S ACADEMY Tuition: Call for more information Contact: 100 Obetz Rd., Columbus 43207; 614-491-3270; childrensacademy.org Grades/Number of students: PK-2/ 225

CHILDREN’S CENTER FOR DEVELOPMENTAL ENRICHMENT / OAKSTONE ACADEMY Focus: specializes in the education of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Tuition: $550 Contact: 2655 Oakstone Dr., Columbus 43231; 614-890-7854; oakstoneacademy.org Grades/Number of students: PS-12/ 64

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CLINTONVILLE ACADEMY Tuition: $7,042 Contact: 3916 Indianola Ave., Columbus 43214; 614-267-4799; clintonvilleacademy.org Grades/Number of students: PK-8/ 161

COLUMBUS ACADEMY Tuition: $16,000-$20,200 Contact: 4300 Cherry Bottom Rd., Gahanna 43230; 614-475-2311; columbusacademy.org Grades/Number of students: PS-12/ 1,069

COLUMBUS MONTESSORI EDUCATION CENTER Tuition: ranges from $6,400 to $9,100 Contact: 979 S. James Rd., Columbus 43227; 614-231-3790; columbusmontessori.org Grades/Number of students: PK-6/ 226

COLUMBUS SCHOOL FOR GIRLS Tuition: $17,500-$20,200 Contact: 56 S. Columbia Ave., Columbus 43209; 614-252-0781; columbusschoolforgirls.org Grades/Number of students: PS-12/ 676

DUBLIN PREP ACADEMY Tuition: Call for more information Contact: 5720 Avery Rd., Dublin 43016; 614-799-9395; prepacademyschools.org Grades/Number of students: PS-1/ 80

ECOLE FRANCAISE Tuition: $6,450 to $6,650 Contact: 5120 Godown Rd., Columbus 43220; 614-451-1309; education-unlimited.org Grades/Number of students: K-5/ 94

THE GARDNER SCHOOL OF DUBLIN Year Founded: 2008 Tuition: Call for more information; sibling discounts available Address: 6145 Emerald Pkwy., Dublin 43016 Phone: 614-717-9677 Website: thegardnerschool.com Ages and grades served: Six weeks old through private kindergarten; includes full range of enrichment programs for children Number of students: 172 Number of faculty: 40

GODDARD SCHOOL FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT, THE Contact: goddardschool.com (click on the Locations tab) Grades/Number of students: PK-K/ not available

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JANE’S MONTESSORI ACADEMY Tuition: $550-$850 per month Contact: 1375 Francisco Rd., Columbus 43220; 614-457-6404; janesacademy.com Grades/Number of students: PS-3/ 14 in kindergarten

JOYLAND PRESCHOOL Tuition: Kindergarten tuition is $185 per week Contact: 5400 Wilcox Rd., Dublin 43016; 614-876-1263; joylandpreschool.com Grades/Number of students: PK-K/ 100

MANSION DAY SCHOOL Tuition: $9,608 (including before- and after-school childcare); $8,108 (without childcare) Address: 72 Woodland Ave., Columbus 43203 Phone: 614-258-4449 Website: mansiondayschool.org Grades served: PS to Grade 5 Number of students: 105

MARBURN ACADEMY Focus: serves students with different learning needs including dyslexia and ADHD Tuition: Call for more information Contact: 1860 Walden Dr., Columbus 43229; 614-433-0822; marburnacademy.org Grades/Number of students: 1-12/ 151

tion for students, ages 11-17 Contact: 2440 Dawnlight Ave., Columbus 43211; 614-471-2626; rosemont.org Grades/Number of students: 6-10/ 32

SMOKY ROW CHILDREN’S CENTER Tuition: $847 weekly Contact: 8615 Smoky Row Rd., Powell; 614-766-2122; smokyrowchildrencenter.com Grades/Number of students: PK-K/ 138

WELLINGTON SCHOOL, THE Tuition: $12,690-$19,850 Contact: 3650 Reed Rd., Columbus 43220; 614-457-7883; wellington.org Grades/Number of students: PK-12/ 565

PRIVATE/RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS

ALL SAINTS ACADEMY Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $3,000 for participating families; $4,470 non-participating Contact: 2855 E. Livingston Ave., Columbus 43209; 614-231-3391; cdeducation.org/schools/asa Grades/Number of students: PS-8/ 324

BEAUTIFUL SAVIOR EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Tuition: $4,550-$5,300 Contact: 950 King Ave., Columbus 43212; 614-297-7190 Grades/Number of students: PK-K/ 94

Religious Affiliation: Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod Tuition: Call for more information Contact: 2213 White Rd., Grove City 43123; 614-875-1147; beautifulsaviorgc.net Grades/Number of students: PK-8/ 76

PRIMROSE SCHOOLS (10 LOCATIONS)

BISHOP HARTLEY HIGH SCHOOL

Contact: 1-800-PRIMROSE; primroseschools.com Grades/Number of students:PS-K/ not available

Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $7,450 for participating families; $7,975 non-participating Contact: 1285 Zettler Rd., Columbus 43227; 614-237-5421; bishophartley.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 715

MONTESSORI CHILDREN’S HOUSE

NORTHSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL Contact: 2855 Snouffer Rd., Columbus 43235; 614-761-2727; northsidemontessori.com Grades/Number of students: PS-K/ not available

PLACE TO GROW, A Contact: 6760 Discovery Blvd., Dublin 43017; 614-793-1441; aplacetogrowinc.com Grades/Number of students: PK-K/ 48

ROSEMONT CENTER SCHOOL/ EAGLE HEIGHTS ACADEMY Focus: combines specialized therapeutic day treatment with academic educa-

BISHOP READY HIGH SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $7,800 Contact: 707 Salisbury Rd., Columbus 43204; 614-276-5263; brhs.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 442

BISHOP WATTERSON HIGH SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $7,700 for participating families; $8,700 non-participating

| Central Ohio Schools Directory 2012 | columbusparent.com

Contact: 99 E. Cooke Rd., Columbus 43214; 614-268-8671; bishopwatterson. com Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 1,019

Contact: P.O. Box 307, 600 N. High St., Worthington 43085; 614-885-7529; worthingtonumc.org/children/cpc/ default.htm Grades/Number of students: PK-K/ 43

urbanconcern.org/harambee/harambee-christian-school Grades/Number of students: K-7/ 116

BRICE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

CYPRESS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Methodist Tuition: ranges from $4,100 to $4,150 Contact: 377 Alton Darby Creek Rd., Galloway 43119; 614-870-1181; cypresschristianschool.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 363

Religious Affiliation: Christian Tuition: $2,595 to $5,000 Contact: 4595 Gender Rd., Canal Winchester 43110; 614-837-1990; harvestprep.org Grades/Number of students: PK-12/ 633

EASTWOOD SDA JUNIOR ACADEMY

HOLY SPIRIT CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Religious Affiliation: Seventh-Day Adventist Ohio Conference Tuition: Honors Ohio EdChoice Scholarship funding, annual tuition is $4,650 with discounts for membership in SDA churches Contact: 6350 S. Sunbury Rd., Westerville 43081; 614-794-6350; ejaonline.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 60

Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $3,212 for participating families; $4,870 non-participating Contact: 4382 Duchene Lane, Columbus 43213; 614-861-0475; holy-spiritschool.com Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 260

GAHANNA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $2,787 for participating families; $3,976 non-participating Contact: 366 E. North Broadway St., Columbus 43214; 614-267-6579; immaculateconception-parish.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 451

Religious Affiliation: Methodist Tuition: $4,200-$4,600 Contact: P.O. Box 370, 3160 Brice Rd., Brice 43109; 614-866-6789; bricechristianacademy.com Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 218

CALUMET CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Xenos Christian Fellowship Tuition: $4,452-$5,124 Contact: 2774 Calumet St., Columbus 43202; 614-261-8136; xenosschools.org Grades/Number of students: PK-8/ 307

CENTRAL BAPTIST SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Christian Tuition: $3,740 Contact: 1945 Frank Rd., Columbus 43223; 614-279-3115; cbacolumbus.com Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 23

CENTRAL COLLEGE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Religious Affiliation: Presbyterian Tuition: $4,412-$4,912 Contact: 975 S. Sunbury Rd., Westerville 43081; 614-794-8146; cccacademy.com Grades/Number of students: K-5/ 151

COLUMBUS ADVENTIST ACADEMY Religious Affiliation: Seventh-Day Adventist Tuition: $4,250 Contact: 3700 Sunbury Rd., Columbus 43219; 614-471-2083 Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 100

COLUMBUS JEWISH DAY SCHOOL, THE Religious Affiliation: Jewish Tuition: $14,400 Contact: 79 N. High St., New Albany 43054; 614-939-5311; cjds.org Grades/Number of students: K-6/ 114

COLUMBUS TORAH ACADEMY Religious Affiliation: Jewish Tuition: ranges from $9,890 to $15,974 Contact: 181 Noe Bixby Rd., Columbus 43213; 614-864-0299; torahacademy.org Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 285

CREATIVE PLAY CENTER Religious Affiliation: Methodist Tuition: $200 per week for kindergarten

Religious Affiliation: Christian Tuition: $4,685-$5,520 Contact: 817 N. Hamilton Rd., Gahanna 43230; 614- 471-9270; gahannachristianacademy.com Grades/Number of students: PK-12/ 462

GLORIA S. FRIEND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Religious Affiliation: Christian Tuition: $3,500 Contact: 428 E. Main St., Columbus 43215; 614-221-1518; gsfchristianacademy.org Grades/Number of students: K-5/ 50

GRACE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

HARVEST PREPARATORY SCHOOL

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION SCHOOL

LINWORTH CHILDREN’S CENTER Religious Affiliation: Christian Tuition: $426 per week Contact: 7070 Bent Tree Blvd., Columbus 43235; 614-336-9559; linworthcc.org/kindergarten.cfm Grades/Number of students: K/ 19

MADISON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Religious Affiliation: Grace Brethren Church Tuition: $4,600-$4,900 Contact: 7510 E. Broad St., Blacklick 43004; 614-861-0724; gcsblacklick.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 380

Religious Affiliation: Christian Tuition: $3,850-$4,950 Contact: 3565 Bixby Rd., Groveport 43125; 614-497-3456; madisonchristianschool.org Grades/Number of students: PK-12/ 559

GROVE CITY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

MARY EVANS CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER

Religious Affiliation: Christian Nazarene Tuition: ranges from $4,230 to $5,230 Contact: 4750 Hoover Rd., Grove City 43123; 614-875-3000; gccsk12.org Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 687

Religious Affiliation: First Community Church Tuition: Call for more information Contact: 3777 Dublin Rd., Columbus 43221; 614-777-4099 Grades/Number of students: PK-K/ 76

HARAMBEE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Xenos Christian Fellowship Tuition: $5,760 Contact: 1000 Bonham Ave., Columbus 43211; 614-291-0885;

NORTHSIDE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Christian Tuition: $4,930-$5,400 Contact: 2655 W. Schrock Rd., Westerville 43081; 614-882-1493; ncslions.org Grades/Number of students: PK-12/ 201

NORTHWEST CHAPEL CHILDREN’S CENTER

OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Religious Affiliation: Christian Year Founded: 2005 Tuition: $320 per month for A.M. kindergarten; $20 sibling discounts per month Address: 6700 Rings Rd., Dublin 43016 Phone: 614-761-0647 Website: nwcchildrenscenter.org Grades served: PS to K; before-school care available from 8-9 a.m.

Number of students: 58 Number of faculty: 9 Member of: Association of Christian Schools International; recipient of Step Up to Quality One-Star Award

Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $3,375 for participating families; $4,725 non-participating Contact: 3752 Broadway, Grove City 43123; 614-875-6779; olphsaints.org Grades/Number of students: PS-8/ 406

ST. AGATHA SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $3,950 for participating families; $5,817 non-participating Contact: 1880 Northam Rd., Columbus 43221; 614-488-9000; saintagatha school.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 290

ST. BRENDAN SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $3,275 for participating families; $5,017 non-participating Contact: 4475 Dublin Rd., Hilliard 43026; 614-876-6132; stbrendans.net Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 482

SAINT BRIGID OF KILDARE SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $5,050 for participating families; $5,750 non-participating Contact: 7175 Avery Rd., Dublin 43017; 614-718-5825; stbrigidofkildare.com Grades/Number of students: PS-8/ 554

ST. CATHARINE SCHOOL

OUR LADY OF BETHLEHEM SCHOOL

ST. ANDREW SCHOOL

Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: ranges from $1,750 to $3,600 Contact: 4567 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus 43214; 614-451-8285; our ladyofbethlehem.org Grades/Number of students: PS-K/ 16

Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $3,500 for participating families; $5,300 non-participating Contact: 4081 Reed Rd., Columbus 43220; 614-451-1626; standrewschool.com Grades/Number of students: PS-8/ 443

OUR LADY OF PEACE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL

ST. CECILIA CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $3,715 for participating families; $5,715 non-participating Contact: 1300 Urban Dr., Columbus, 43229; 614-888-4268; stanthony columbus.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 160

Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $3,812 for participating families; $5,809 non-participating Contact: 440 Norton Rd., Columbus 43228; 614-878-3555; stcecilia columbus.org Grades/Number of students: PS-8/ 220

Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $4,610 Contact: 40 E. Dominion Blvd., Columbus 43214; 614-267-4535; olpcolumbus. org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 257

Setting The Standard In Early Care & Education

Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $2,940 for participating families; $5,100 non-participating Contact: 2865 Fair Ave., Columbus 43209; 614-235-1396; stcatharine school.com Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 261

Offering outstanding Reggio-Inspired Infant, Toddler & Preschool programs, as well as Kindergarten, Afterschool & Summer Camp.

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

Open House Saturday 2/18 10:30AM - 1:00PM Featuring a pizza-tossing performance by our hometown “Pizza Patt” Miller, a caricature artist, children’s activities, refreshments and more! This is a free community event: invite a friend!

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

614.764.8844

DISCOVER: SPRING CAMP 5 DAYS, 5 WAYS TO HAVE FUN!

When school’s out, we’re offering a week of WOW…and a sneak peek of our summer camp adventures!

at KinderCare®

For dates and details, call 888-518-2201 www.KinderCareCamps.com

columbusparent.com | Central Ohio Schools Directory 2012 |

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ST. CHARLES PREPARATORY SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition:$8,390 for participating families; $8,690 non-participating Contact: 2010 E. Broad St., Columbus 43209; 614-252-6714; stcharlesprep.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 638 (all male)

ST. FRANCIS DESALES HIGH SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $7,525 for participating families; $8,025 non-participating Contact: 4212 Karl Rd., Columbus 43224; 614-267-7808; stfrancisdesaleshs.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 816

ST. JAMES THE LESS CATHOLIC SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $2,835 for participating families; $4,500 non-participating Contact: 1628 Oakland Park Ave., Columbus 43224; 614-268-3311; stjames.cdeducation.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 497

ST. JOSEPH MONTESSORI SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: ranges from $7,200 to $8,650 Contact: 933 Hamlet St., Columbus 43201; 614-291-8601; sjms.net Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 270

SAINT MARY SCHOOL GERMAN VILLAGE Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $3,795 Contact: 700 S. Third St., Columbus 43206; 614-444-8994; stmaryschoolgv.com Grades/Number of students: PS-8/ 230

SAINT MARY MAGDALENE SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $3,850 for participating families; $5,600 non-participating Contact: 2940 Parkside Rd., Columbus 43204; 614-279-9935; saintmarymag.org Grades/Number of students: PS-8/ 190

ST. MATTHEW SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $3,000 for participating families; $4,600 non-participating Contact: 795 Havens Corners Rd., Gahanna 43230; 614-471-4930; teacherweb.com/OH/StMatthew/SchoolHomePage/sdhp1.aspx Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 600

ST. MATTHIAS SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $3,350 for participating fami-

10

Number of students: 6,173 District rating: Excellent

lies; $4,300 non-participating Contact: 1566 Ferris Rd., Columbus 43224; 614-268-3030; teacherweb.com/OH/StMatthias/School Homepage/sdhp1.aspx Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 274

NORTH FORK LOCAL Contact: 312 Maple Ave., Utica 43080; 740-892-3666; northfork.k12.oh.us Number of students: 1,863 District rating: Effective

ST. MICHAEL SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $2,821 for participating families; $4,340 non-participating Contact: 64 E. Selby Blvd., Worthington 43085; 614-885-3149; stmichael. cdeducation.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 523

ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Lutheran Tuition: $2,950-$4,200 Contact: 322 Stewart Ave., Columbus 43206; 614-444-4216; stpaulcares.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 68

SAINT PIUS X SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $2,950 for participating families; $4,410 non-participating Contact: 1061 Waggoner Rd., Reynoldsburg 43068; 614-866-6050; spx elementary.com Grades/Number of students: PS-8/ 550

ST. TIMOTHY SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $3,592 for participating families; $5,166 non-participating Contact: 1070 Thomas Ln., Columbus 43220; 614-451-0739; sttimschool.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 259

SHEPHERD CHRISTIAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Shepherd Church of the Nazarene Tuition: $4,500 Address: 425 S. Hamilton Rd., Gahanna 43230 Phone: 614-471-0859 Website: shepherdchristian.org Grades served: K to Grade 5 with plans to add Grade 6 this fall Number of students: 183

SOUTHEAST CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Religious Affiliation: Christian Tuition: $4,250 Contact: 1500 Barnett Rd., Columbus 43227; 614-231-0051; southeastchristian academy.org Grades/Number of students: PK-5/ 100+

SUNRISE ACADEMY Religious Affiliation: Islamic Tuition: ranges from $4,375 (Grades 18) to $4,500 (K) Contact: 5657 Scioto Darby Rd., Hilliard 43026; 614-527-0465; sunriseacademy.net

NORTHRIDGE LOCAL Contact: 6066 Johnstown-Utica Rd., Johnstown 43031; 740-967-6631; northridge.k12.oh.us Number of students: 1,428 District rating: Excellent

Contact: 116 W. Church St., Newark 43055; 740-323-1102; excelacademyohio.org Grades/Number of students: K-12+/ 30

WELSH HILLS SCHOOL Tuition: Call for more information Contact: 2610 Newark-Granville Rd., Granville 43023; 740-522-2020; welshhills.org Grades/Number of students: PS-8/ 64

PRIVATE/RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS

SOUTHWEST LICKING LOCAL Grades/Number of students: PK-8/ 420

TREE OF LIFE CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS (THREE BRANCHES) Religious Affiliation: Church of Christ Tuition: $3,345-$7,041 Contact: 935 Northridge Rd., Columbus 43224; 614-263-2688; tolcs.org Grades/Number of students: PK-12/ 124 at Dublin branch, 86 at Indianola branch, 662 at Northridge branch

TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: Call for more information Contact: 1440 Grandview Ave., Columbus 43212; 614-488-7650; trinity.cdeducation.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 162

WORTHINGTON ADVENTIST ACADEMY Religious Affiliation: Seventh-Day Adventist Ohio Conference Tuition: $3,970 Contact: 870 Griswold St., Worthington 43085; 614-885-9525; worthingtonadventistacademy.com Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 44

WORTHINGTON CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS (THREE CAMPUSES) Religious Affiliation: Christian – Grace Brethren Church Tuition: $6,502-$8,136 Contact: 6670 Worthington-Galena Rd., Worthington 43085; 614-431-8210; worthingtonchristian.com Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 909

XENOS CHRISTIAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Xenos Christian Fellowship Tuition: $4,452 Contact: 1390 Community Park Dr., Columbus 43229; 614-823-6540; xenosschools.org Grades/Number of students: PK-5/ 252

| Central Ohio Schools Directory 2012 | columbusparent.com

Licking County

Contact: 927-A South St., Pataskala 43062; 740-927-3941; swl.k12.oh.us Number of students: 3,556 District rating: Excellent

OTHER PUBLICLY FUNDED SCHOOLS

PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS

BLESSED SACRAMENT SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: Call for more information Contact: 394 E. Main St., Newark 43055; 740-345-4125; blessedsacramentschoolnewark.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 168

C-TEC HIGH SCHOOL GRANVILLE EXEMPTED VILLAGE Contact: 130 N. Granger St., Granville 43023; 740-587-8101; Granville.k12.oh.us Number of students: 2,101 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

HEATH CITY

Focus: vocational training Contact: 150 Price Rd., Newark 43055; 740-366-3351; c-tec.edu Grades/Number of students: 9-12 and adult/ not available School Rating: Not Rated

LAKEWOOD DIGITAL ACADEMY

Contact: 107 Lancaster Dr., Heath 43056; 740-522-2816; heath.k12.oh.us Number of students: 1,673 District rating: Excellent

Focus: online school Contact: 525 E. Main St., Hebron 43025; 740-928-5878; lakewoodlocal.k12.oh.us Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 25 School Rating: Not Rated

JOHNSTOWN-MONROE LOCAL

NEWARK DIGITAL ACADEMY

Contact: 441 S. Main St., Johnstown 43031; 740-967-6846; Johnstown.k12.oh.us Number of students: 1,606 District rating: Excellent

Focus: online school Contact: 255 Woods Ave., Newark 43055; 740-328-2022; nda.k12.oh.us Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 25 School rating: Academic Watch

LAKEWOOD LOCAL

PAR EXCELLENCE ACADEMY

Contact: 525 E. Main St., Hebron 43025; 740-928-5878; lakewoodlocal.k12.oh.us Number of students: 1,971 District rating: Effective

LICKING HEIGHTS LOCAL Contact: 6539 Summit Rd. SW, Pataskala 43062; 740-927-6926; lickingheights.k12.oh.us Number of students: 2,720 District rating: Excellent

LICKING VALLEY LOCAL Contact: 1379 Licking Valley Rd., Newark 43055; 740-763-3525; lickingvalley.k12.oh.us Number of students: 2,160 District rating: Excellent

Focus: sponsored by Newark City Schools, works extensively with whole family’s social and financial needs Contact: 96 Maholm St., Newark 43055; 740-344-7279; par-excellence.org Grades/Number of students: K-5/ 138

SOUTHWEST LICKING DIGITAL ACADEMY Contact: 927-A South St., Pataskala 43062; 740-927-3941; swl.k12.oh.us Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 25 School rating: Not Rated

PRIVATE/NON-RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS

GRANVILLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Religious Affiliation: Christian Tuition: $4,280 Contact: 1820 Newark-Granville Rd., Granville 43023; 740-587-4423; granvilleca.org Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 276

LICKING COUNTY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Religious Affiliation: Christian, sponsored by Newark Baptist Temple Tuition: ranges from $2,150 to $3,750 Contact: 81 Licking View Dr., Heath 43056; 740-522-3600; lccaeagles.com Grades/Number of students: K-12/ 190

NEWARK CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $4,995 for participating families; $5,950 non-participating Contact: 1 Green Wave Dr., Newark 43055; 740-344-3594; newarkcatholic.org Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 244

NEWARK SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Seventh-Day Adventist Tuition: $2,000 Contact: 701 Linnville Rd., Heath 43056; 740-323-1531; newark22.adventistschoolconnect.org Grades/Number of students: K-8/ 14

EXCEL ACADEMY NEWARK CITY Contact: 85 E. Main St., Newark 43055; 740-670-7000; newarkcity.k12.oh.us

Focus: for students with behavioral and emotional issues; also includes ASD program

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic

Tuition: $3,847 for participating families; $5,007 non-participating Contact: 38 Granville St., Newark 43055; 740-345-4049; cdeducation.org/schools/dse/ Grades/Number of students: PS-8/ 410

Madison County

for non-Catholic families who do not meet volunteering requirements Contact: 226 Elm St., London 43140; 740-852-0161; stpatricklondon.org/School/ Grades/Number of students: PS-8/ 157

Pickaway County

PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS

JEFFERSON LOCAL Contact: 906 W. Main St., West Jefferson 43162; 614-879-7654; west-jefferson.k12.oh.us Number of students: 1,304 District rating: Effective

CIRCLEVILLE CITY

JONATHAN ALDER LOCAL

LOGAN ELM LOCAL

Contact: 9200 US Route 42 S., Plain City 43064; 614-873-5621; alder.k12.oh.us Number of students: 2,016 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

Contact: 9579 Tarlton Rd., Circleville 43113; 740-474-7501; loganelmschools.com Number of students: 2,310 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

Contact: 388 Clark Dr., Circleville 43113; 740-474-4340; circlevillecityschools.org Number of students: 2,355 District rating: Effective

LONDON CITY Contact: 60 S. Walnut St., London 43140; 740-852-5700; london.k12.oh.us Number of students: 2,157 District rating: Effective

MADISON-PLAINS LOCAL Contact: 55 Linson Rd., London 43140; 740-852-0290; mplsd.org Number of students: 1,415 District rating: Effective

OTHER PUBLICLY FUNDED SCHOOLS

LONDON ACADEMY Contact: 60 S. Walnut St., London 43140; 740-852-5700 Grades/Number of students: 9-12/ 243 School rating: Academic Emergency

TOLLES HIGH SCHOOL Focus: vocational education Contact: 7877 US Highway 42 S., Plain City 43064; 614-873-4666; tollestech.com Grades/Number of students: 9-12 and adult/ not available School rating: Not Rated

PRIVATE/RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS

ST. PATRICK SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Tuition: $2,500 participating families; $3,700 for non-Catholic families who meet volunteering requirements; $4,300

Union County

Clintonville Academy

PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, Feb. 26 • 2-4 p.m.

FAIRBANKS LOCAL Contact: 11158 State Route 38, Milford Center 43045; 937-349-3731; fairbanks.k12.oh.us Number of students: 1,102 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

• Small, safe and challenging classes for pre-K to 8th grade • Proven academic success • Frequent field trips • Foreign language begins in pre-K • Enrichment in art, music and computer skills • Morning and afternoon latchkey • Volunteer credits help toward tuition

MARYSVILLE EXEMPTED VILLAGE Contact: 1000 Edgewood Dr., Marysville 43040; 937-644-8105; marysville.k12.oh.us Number of students: 5,189 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

NORTH UNION LOCAL Contact: 12920 State Route 739, Richwood 43344; 740-943-2509; nunion.k12.oh.us Number of students: 1,469 District rating: Excellent

www.clintonvilleacademy.org 3 minutes off Interstate-71 at Cooke Road exit 3916 Indianola Avenue • Columbus, OH 43214

TEAYS VALLEY LOCAL Contact: 385 Circleville Ave., Ashville 43103; 740-983-4111; tvsd.us Number of students: 3,750 District rating: Excellent with Distinction

WESTFALL LOCAL Contact: 19463 Pherson Pike, Williamsport 43164; 740-986-3671; westfall.k12.oh.us Number of students: 1,639 District rating: Effective

PRIVATE/RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS

NEW HOPE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Christian, affiliated with Circleville Nazarene Tuition: ranges from $3,960 to $4,093 Contact: 2264 Walnut Creek Pike, Circleville 43113; 740-477-6427; circlevillenaz.org Grades/Number of students: PK-8/ 294

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN Religious Affiliation: Christian, affiliated with Trinity Lutheran Church Tuition: $165/month for kindergarten Contact: 135 E. Mound St., Circleville 43113; 740-474-9987; trinitylutherancville.org Grades/Number of students: PS-K/ 109

PRIVATE/RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS

Call 614-267-4799 to schedule a visit

MARYSVILLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Religious Affiliation: Christian Tuition: Call for more information Contact: 1001 N. Maple St., Marysville 43040; 937-644-0911; marysvillechristianacademy.com Grades/Number of students: PS-12/ 33

ST. PAUL LUTHERAN SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Lutheran Tuition: Call for more information Contact: 7960 State Route 38, Milford Center 43045; 937-349-5939; stpaulchuckery.com Grades/Number of students: PK-8/ 60

ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Lutheran Tuition: ranges from $1,659 to $3,166 based on grade and participation Contact: 12809 State Route 736, Marysville 43040; 937-644-5540; sjsmarysville.org Grades/Number of students: PS-8/ 275

TRINITY LUTHERAN SCHOOL Religious Affiliation: Lutheran Tuition: $680-$1,590 Contact: 220 S. Walnut St., Marysville 43040; 937-642-1726; marysvilletrinity.org Grades/Number of students: PK-6/ 253

mission

The of

the

Columbus Montessori Education Center is to

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nurture and

develop whole child through magnified learning

and quality care in a diverse community. ! "

!

• Serving children 6 weeks through 6th grade.

#

• Curriculum tailored to each student’s own

$ learning and academic interests.

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• Educates the & whole

child - academically, %& ' socially,

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*+ & , emotionally.

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• NAEYC and MACTE accredited. • Step Up to Quality 3-Star Award Winner.

Society.

• Member of the American Montessori

• AMS Associate Member

• ISACS Provisional Member

!" " #

columbusparent.com | Central Ohio Schools Directory 2012 |

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| Central Ohio Schools Directory 2012 | columbusparent.com

family fun: HANDS ON

Pop Up Valentine

BY OLIVERA BRATICH

Your heart will be jumping out of your card with this simple pop up Valentine! The project teaches several pop-up methods that can be used in greeting cards year round. Perfect for giving to family or friends, these cards add a handmade touch to the holiday.

And the pop-up card is fun for a wide range of ages, so make an afternoon of it with the whole family!

WHAT YOU NEED • Red or pink card stock • Patterned scrapbook or construction paper • Scissors • Double-stick tape • Glue stick • Heavy hardcover book • Knitting needle ALYSIA BURTON PHOTO

HOW YOU DO IT 1. Cut cardstock down to 10-inches wide by 7-inches tall.

2. To create an even fold, lay the spine of a hardback book along the line where your fold will be. Trace down the spine of the book with a knitting needle, pressing firmly. This is also called “scoring.” Remove the book and fold the paper along the score line you have just created.

3. Cut out a heart from the patterned paper and paste or tape to the front of the card.

4. Open your card. Cut down a piece of patterned paper that is 8 inches by 5 inches and center it in your open card. Repeat the scoring instructions in step 2 to create a fold line that matches the one on your card. Use glue stick and/or double-stick tape to attach.

5. Fold a piece of patterned paper in half and cut out a heart with a one-inch tab sticking out each side. Fold down the tabs toward the back of the heart. Center the heart on the inside of your card, lining up the fold line in the heart with the fold line in the card. Use double-stick tape to attach the tabs to the inside of the card. The heart will fold in the middle and pop up when the card opens!

6. To create smaller pop-up hearts on the inside of the card: Cut a two-inch long thin strip of cardstock. Fold accordion style and use double-stick tape to attach a small heart cut-out and attach the other end to the inside of the card.

Be careful to fold down the accordion strip properly when closing the card.

WHO THOUGHT THIS UP 7. Close the card and place under a heavy book for a few minutes. Place in an envelope and watch the look of surprise on the recipient’s face when your hearts pop right up!

OLIVERA BRATICH owns Wholly Craft, 3169 N. High St. The Clintonville shop features handmade goods from more than 100 crafters and artists, including clothing, jewelry, accessories, paper goods, home décor and more! Hours of operation: 1-8 p.m., weekdays except Tuesdays when they’re closed, 12 noon-7 p.m. Saturdays, 12 noon-5 p.m. Sundays. For more information, go to whollycraft.com or call 614-447-3445.

columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

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family fun: PARTIES

ZOO-PER

BY MELISSA KOSSLER DUTTON

A

BIRTHDAY McKenna Hudson was not a bit worried that a few of the guests to her 5th birthday party were late.

The preschooler was having a blast exploring the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium birthday party room. She loved playing with the toys that zoo employees had set out for partygoers. She particularly enjoyed hopping around the brightlycolored room on a toy that looked like frog feet.

As the guests arrived, they, too, had fun checking out the toys and the room and, while they were playing, the party guests took some time to get to know one another.

At the encouragement of his parents, 3-yearold Austin Garwatoski asked one guest her name.

“Abby,” she replied shyly.

Then Austin’s parents told him to tell Abby his name.

“What’s my name?” he asked her.

After more encouragement, he got it right.

“My name is Austin,” he said.

After some more playing, it was time for pizza.

Once the kids gobbled up their dinner, lead party planner Brittany Hall announced it was game time.

“How many of you guys have played Pin the Tail on the Donkey?” Hall asked the kids, who ranged in age from 2 to 6.

None of the little ones raised their hands.

“That’s O.K.,” she told them cheerily, “We’re going to play Pin the Nose on the Lion.”

She passed out red noses and explained the rules.

The parents couldn’t help but laugh as the kids — blindfolded and spun until they were dizzy — shuffled toward the wall to stick on their noses.

Watching the youngsters do a relay race with plastic eggs on a spoon was equally amusing.

Austin had no problem with the task. He careful-

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| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

ly held the egg in place with his hand.

His technique made McKenna’s dad, Brian, quip, “I don’t know what’s so hard about this.”

When the race was over, Hall asked the kids to sit on the rug to watch McKenna open her presents.

She promised that cake would be next.

“Cake’s coming up soon,” Abby Adair, 5, said excitedly.

McKenna was excited about the cake too. After opening her gifts, she bounced over to the cake table singing, “Cake, cake, cake time, cake time.”

It took her five big whooshes to blow out the candles.

With all the usual party business out of the way, it was time for the special attraction — visits from zoo animals.

The kids sat on the rug and received a few pointers about making the animals comfortable.

Hall and Amy Torrey from the zoo’s education

JOE MAIORANA PHOTOS

department told party guests that the animals appreciate quiet voices and get scared by sudden movements.

The kids couldn’t wait for the animal visitors, which included a legless lizard, a Netherland dwarf rabbit, a hedgehog, an eastern screech owl and a bearded dragon.

While carefully holding the animals, the women shared facts about them. The children were invited to pet most of them.

The kids were mesmerized by the animals.

That’s what McKenna’s mother, Sherry Hudson, was hoping for. She knew a zoo party was perfect for McKenna, who has been visiting the Columbus Zoo weekly since she was 6 months old.

“She comes here so often, she’s like a little tour guide at the zoo,” the Delaware resident said.

“She’s met Jack Hanna.”

Sherry Hudson also liked that the zoo handled every part of the party from the invitations to the goodie bags.

“We literally walked out of our car and walked straight in here,” she said.

ZOO PARTIES The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium birthday parties are appropriate for children, ages 4 to 12. Up to 25 guests can attend the 90-minute parties.

Parties can be scheduled at 4 p.m. Fridays and at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Parties cost $300.

For more information visit, columbuszoo.org/book_your_ event/birthdays/default.aspx or call 614-645-3488.

family fun: PLAYGROUND PATROL

Westerville Community Center

BY JOEL OLIPHINT The city of Westerville recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Community Center — a sprawling, almost 100,000-square-foot complex with a giant gymnasium, fitness center, climbing wall, game room and a huge, indoor aquatic center complete with lap pool, whirlpool, tube slide, body slide and even a lazy river.

With all those amenities, you may feel like a cheapskate shuffling the kids through the revolving doors and making a beeline for the free-of-charge playground adjacent to the lobby. But hey, there are only so many indoor playground options during these seemingly interminable winter months.

Any pangs of guilt will likely disappear once you’re in the Tree Top Playground, a treehousethemed play structure bordered by lovely, floor-to-ceiling windows, the open lobby and more large windows that look into the pool area.

The only downside to the windows is that, if your kids are anything like my toddlers, they’ll pine and whine for water slides before surrendering to playground play.

Like most modern playgrounds, Tree Top has a soft, rubber floor — a good thing, since the structure is quite high and includes two miniature climbing walls, one of which is angled for early climbers and one at a right angle for more experienced and/or ambitious climbers. Some of the more advanced activities, like the fireman’s pole, are at the rear of the playground and not visible from the comfy atrium seating, so you may need to park on a rear bench if

ALYSIA BURTON PHOTO

you have adventurous little ones.

The space is exceedingly clean; it’s not unusual to see a custodian vacuuming the area or wiping down tables. You’ll likely want to bring your own snacks, though.

Drinking fountains are around the corner, but the nearby vending machines provided mostly soda, energy drinks, candy and chips. The closest thing to healthy options were Yoo-hoo and Sunny Delight.

Review from the 4-year-old: “That is really my favorite playground because I like sliding down the pole like a fireman.”

Review from the 2-year-old: “I like the rocks you climb.”

TREE TOP PLAYGROUND AT THE WESTERVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER, operated by the Westerville Parks & Recreation Department, 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville, 614-901-6500, westerville.org HOURS: Monday-Thursday 5:45 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday 5:45 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

COST: Free for playground, but admission rates apply to pool and other amenities

columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

37

family fun: EATING OUT WITH KIDS

ALYSIA BURTON PHOTOS

The Smiling Daisy Cafe THE MOM SAYS

By Y. York. Based on the novel

by Audrey Couloumbis Recommended for ALL age 8 and older–80 minutes plus an intermission.

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| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

I wasn’t sure I could sell my son on making a long drive (25 miles for us) to the Smiling Daisy Cafe, but having sampled it once before on my own, I was pretty sure the food would win him over. As for me, there is nothing I love more than finding a small gem of a restaurant in the middle of nowhere and, without a doubt, this place fits the bill.

The chef, Dale Romp, is for real and his food is clearly a labor of love. He opened his restaurant just over a year ago in the tiny Union County town of Milford Center, which is located about 10 miles southwest of Marysville. It’s open Wednesday through Sunday for all-day breakfast and lunch from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Romp has branched into offering dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings (we WILL be headed back for

that). You can get reservations for dinner, but not during the day. The local rush for seats occurs between 9:30 and 11:30 a.m.

How best to describe a meal there?

Well, the first time I went I got what I can only describe as “French toast du jour.” You can use the menu to pick food (which includes an impressive array of northern European and American regional dishes) or you can chat with Romp to customize your meal. He sold me on a batch of French toast he had dreamed up using a sweet-potato pecan sticky bun for the bread and a batter into which he had tossed some crumbled-up Heath bars. Add a side of genuine Cajun bacon on the side (he’ll tell you what makes it genuine bacon), and you’ll be in foodie heaven (you’ll also need a nap when you get home, but it’s so worth it).

The Smiling Daisy Café 27 E. State St., Milford Center, OH 43045; 937-349-1020; smilingdaisycafe.com HOURS: 7 a.m.-4 p.m. WednesdaysSundays; 5:30-8:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays PRICES: Breakfast entrees ($5-$6) and sides ($3); Lunch entrees, sandwiches and salads ($6-$8); Dinner appetizers ($6-$8), entrees ($16-$31), desserts ($7); major credit cards accepted

During my two visits, I also tried an impressive Danish pan cake known as aebleskiver, part of someone else’s breakfast burrito, cheesy hash browns and a peach ginger honey smoothie. All

www.mtmtavern.com

HOW’D THEY LIKE IT? FOOD:

SERVICE:

BATHROOM:

FAVORITE BITE: MOM: French toast du jour KID: Corned beef hash

GRADING SCALE:

su

Sunday Brunch A MATT’S TRADITION 10AM-2:30PM

FEATURING: Omelet Station | Eggs Benedict | Scrambled Eggs | Home Fries | Bacon

Sausage | French Toast | Flatbreads | Pasta | Fresh Fruit | Salads | Desserts | Pastries Weekly Chef Specials and More.

— $14.95 adults —$6.95 kids 5-10 years old

GREAT!

GOOD.

MEH.

BOO.

*Kids 4 and under FREE with each paying adult. (Additional 4 and under $4.95 each)

DUBLIN 6725 Avery-Muirfield Drive Dublin, OH | 614.799.9100 GRANDVIEW 1400 Grandview Avenue | Columbus, OH | 614.754.1026

THE KID SAYS of it has been superb, made with fresh ingredients that are smoothly and imaginatively integrated.

Be forewarned if you make the trek out there: The place is small — only four inside tables and a counter with stools (there is a picnic table outside for warmer months). Food is served on paper plates. It gets chilly in there in the winter and the tiny bathroom is nothing elaborate. But the food is fantastic and the setting is unusual enough that it would probably throw the pickiest of young eaters off their game and into their plates of food. —JANE HAWES

At first I thought this place was going to look more like a coffee cafe, more like what you would expect when you hear the word “cafe,” but that wasn’t how it turned out. It was more like a house, kind of colorful the way he’s decorated it. The town it was in looked really quaint, even though I didn’t pay much attention to it. The drive was very long. I even brought a portable DVD player to watch a movie in the car while we drove there.

I was surprised because the kitchen was in the place where we were eating, like they would cook there — not at your table — but you could see everything that they were doing. That was cool that they would come over and talk to you and ask you questions about stuff.

I ordered the corned beef

hash after having a sample of it. I had never had it before and my mom wasn’t sure I’d like it, so the chef let me try a sample of it, which I thought was interesting because that doesn’t normally happen, where the chef comes out and gives you a sample. I thought it tasted really good. It came with scrambled eggs and potatoes, and huge slices of bread. I said the eggs were better than my mom’s. The scrambled eggs my mom makes are really good but not as good as these.

I got a strawberry banana smoothie. In fact I got two strawberry banana smoothies because I’m addicted to smoothies. And these were exceptionally good. They made the smoothies fresh with real fruit, which I like.

Overall it was really cool. It was worth the drive.

—COLIN HAWES

big fat Greek Kuzina Traditional, Fresh Greek

Homemade Pastitsio, Baklava, Moussaka, & More!

Big Fat Greek 2816 Fishinger Road Columbus, OH.

614.457.4733 WWW.BESTGREEKUSA.COM Gluten Free Options | Vegan | Organic | Vegetarian | Chemical Free columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

39

family fun: WORTH THE PRICE OF A SITTER?

Valentine’s Day IN OLD WORTHINGTON

BY MELISSA KOSSLER DUTTON AND GEOFF DUTTON

When you’re married with kids, date night can be a high-stakes gamble. There’s the price of the sitter, the cost of the date, the paralyzing uncertainty about what to do with — gasp! — a few hours to yourselves. And trying to plan a date for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day or an anniversary can up the ante.

One way to hedge your bet is to pick a destination with a range of possibilities. That way, not everything is riding on just dinner, or the wine bar, or the live band. Better to have it all within a short stroll, so you can sample options, keep moving and follow your whims.

GEOFF: We knew we wanted a night out. But they were just vague, restless yearnings. Like tired children, we were bored and there was just nothing to do.

Now what?

MELISSA: When a friend suggested visiting House Wine in Old Worthington, we thought it sounded like a destination with a lot of possibilities. The inner-ring suburb was a place we’d breezed through but never explored. It turned out to be an ideal spot for a Friday night of aimless wandering. Lots of historic character, and within a few short blocks was a lively mix of restaurants, shopping, beverages and desserts.

GEOFF: We started at House Wine, a locally owned wine shop that offers a nice selection. In addition to typical tastings, House Wine has a clever pushbutton serving system, where users can dispense one-, three- or five-ounces of wine to sample. The machine allows the shop to have about a dozen wines available for tasting at a time. It also allows you to sample, say, a $100 bottle that you would otherwise never try.

MELISSA: The wine bar had a great vibe — friendly workers, interesting look and a clientele that seemed to be a mix of local regulars and local “tourists” like us. We were reluctant to leave but dinner awaited across the street.

GEOFF: The Worthington Inn is a

40

Columbus-area landmark we’d heard a lot about but somehow hadn’t tried during our 10 years living here. The Inn, which dates to 1831, anchors the downtown with 19th century, picture-postcard charm. It features 36 rooms and a restaurant frequently listed in “best of” local dining guides.

MELISSA: The dining room was bustling when we arrived for our 7:30 reservation. There was a mix of families, friends and couples. The menu offered a nice selection of dishes made from the staples of old-school fine dining — seafood, meat and fresh ingredients. Nothing too exotic, but plenty of appetizing choices. I opted for scallops and Geoff ordered crab cakes.

GEOFF: Unlike some fancy restaurants that feel stuffy, the Worthington Inn was cozy and inviting. People were enjoying their meals and the setting.

The food was excellent and priced accordingly, but it wasn’t pretentious.

After dinner, we were about to leave and explore the downtown some more — until we discovered the jazz band playing in the bar.

MELISSA: After enjoying the music, we headed back to House Wine for one last glass of wine. We just as easily could have gone to the La Chatelaine French bakery for coffee and pastry, Graeter’s for ice cream or P.K. O’Ryan’s Irish Pub for a nightcap. With so many choices, being bored wasn’t an option.

| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

THE RATING SYSTEM AND VERDICT: Whatever it takes Book a sitter now Only if Grandma is available Candyland, anyone?

VERDICT:

THE FINANCIALS: Babysitter: Dinner with tip: House Wine tastings: TOTAL COST OF THE EVENING:

$50 $110 $40 $200

FILE PHOTOS

THE WORTHINGTON INN

HOUSE WINE

649 High St., Worthington 614-885-2600 worthingtoninn.com Notes: The Inn has live music in the bar on Friday and Saturday nights. The restaurant will offer a couple’s special the week of Valentine’s Day.

644 High St., Worthington 614-826-9463 housewine.biz Notes: House Wine hosts Happy Hour, Monday through Friday, from 3-7 p.m. The wine store is located next door to the make-yourown candle shop, The Candle Lab. Candle makers often head to the wine store for a drink while their candles are finished.

family fun: DAY TRIPPIN’

We are currently looking for

The Mazza Museum of International Art from Picture Books

FOSTER PARENTS in the Central Ohio area for teens and siblings!

give love get back so much more

BY MELISSA KOSSLER DUTTON

Children in Central Ohio have almost daily opportunities to experience books and reading readiness in fun and exciting ways through story hours at our wonderful public library branches.

So what would draw them all the way to Findlay?

The Mazza Museum of International Art from Picture Books.

The museum, located on the campus of the University of Findlay about 100 miles north of Columbus, is the world’s largest museum devoted to literature and the art from children’s books.

During the school year, the museum welcomes families for “Funday Sundays” — themed events with a literary focus.

The events vary each month but typically involve some combination of listening to stories, craft stations, snacks, puppets, music and special guests.

The day we attended was devoted to “Crazy Creatures,” a theme proposed by visiting guests and wellknown illustrators Christopher and Jeanette Canyon. The Columbus artists suggested the theme because they know kids often grow frustrated trying to draw animals that look like the real thing, said the museum’s education coordinator Terry Olthouse.

The theme came to life at many of the stations set up around the museum. Kids created silly animals with puzzle pieces representing different animal parts. My 5 year old was quite pleased with his creature that included an alligator head, a tiger arm, gorilla chest and elephant legs. At the craft table, he used pipe cleaners and pompoms to invent a new creature.

There were no pictures or examples for kids to look at that — they were

National Youth Advocate Program 1-877-692-7226

www.NYAP.org

PHOTO COURTESY MAZZA MUSEUM

free to create whatever they wanted to.

He especially liked the modeling clay station where he was asked to combine the traits of multiple animals into a new critter. He made a “chenguin,” a yellow, black and white animal that was part penguin, part cheetah.

The highlight of the day was the Canyons’ presentation, which included jokes, drawing tips, singing and an explanation of how Jeanette Canyon uses polymer clay to create book illustrations.

Before our visit, Olthouse had warned me that families “come early and stay late.” She was right. We arrived minutes after the 1:30 p.m. start time and the museum was filled with kids roaming happily from one activity to the next. When the 3:30 p.m. end time arrived, the Canyons were still entertaining the crowd with their fabulous talk.

We capped off our adventure with a stop at Dietsch Brothers, a nearby candy and ice cream shop. The Findlay institution, known for its chocolate pretzels, will celebrate its 75th anniversary this year. It was a sweet ending to a wonderful day.

The Mazza Museum is located in the Virginia B. Gardner Fine Arts Pavilion on the campus of the University of Findlay, 1000 N. Main St., Findlay 45840 1-800-472-9502, ext. 5521 findlay.edu/offices/resources/ mazza/aboutmazza/faq.htm HOURS: 12 noon-5 p.m.

Wednesday-Friday, 1-4 p.m. Sunday COST: free but donations are accepted NOTES: The museum also has a great gift shop filled with literature-related toys and merchandise. Upcoming Funday Sundays will be held on Feb. 5, March 4 and April 1. Call or check their website for more information.

DIETSCH BROTHERS 400 Main Cross St. Findlay, OH 45840 419-424-4474 dietschs.com

JANE’S MONTESSORI ACADEMY Come Visit Us At Our Open House Event On Sunday, February 12th From 2-4pm • High Quality Education from 6 weeks through 6 years • Degreed, Montessori-trained lead teachers and degreed assistants • Low Teacher Turnover • A.M., P.M., or All Day Sessions

• Before school, After school, and extended (9-4) care available • Care available during school breaks • An environment that fosters individual growth for your unique child

www.JanesAcademy.com 1375 Francisco Rd., (NW Columbus near Upper Arlington) 457-6404 contact@janesacademy.com

columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

41

family fun: MEDIA REVIEWS

books FOR

KIDS

—LAURA NAWOJCHIK, YOUTH SERVICES LIBRARIAN I, WHETSTONE BRANCH OF THE COLUMBUS METROPOLITAN LIBRARY

“A BALL FOR DAISY”

by Chris Rashka Daisy the dog loves her ball.

Then, while playing with a doggy friend at the park, her ball is popped! Daisy is heartbroken. Will there be a happy ending? All of Daisy’s emotions come to life in the lively, evocative illustrations of this wordless picture book.

FOR AGES 2 TO 4.

“DAUGHTER OF SMOKE AND BONE” Now enrolling for summer school age camp

“TALK, TALK, SQUAWK!: A HUMAN’S GUIDE TO ANIMAL COMMUNICATION”

by Nicola Davies Why do pandas do handstands? Why do howler monkeys howl every morning? And how do elephants send for help from miles away? This book answers these and many other questions you never knew you had about animal communication. The fascinating facts about everything from electric elephant-nose fish to dancing superb lyrebirds are interspersed with hilarious cartoon illustrations.

FOR AGES 7 TO 10.

“OKAY FOR NOW”

by Gary D. Schmidt The odds are stacked against 14-year-old Doug Swieteck. He’s got an abusive father, one older brother who’s mean and another in Vietnam, and a small town full of people who think he’s nothing but trouble. Then Doug begins to make some unusual allies, including Lil Spicer, a feisty girl his age, and to discover his own hidden talents. This rich coming-ofage story will have you laughing, crying and cheering. FOR AGES 10 TO 13.

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| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

“THE ROMEO AND JULIET CODE”

by Phoebe Stone It’s 1941 and British schoolgirl Felicity Bathburn Budwig is brought to Bottlebay, Maine, by her parents to escape the bombardment of London. In Maine, Felicity lives with the grandmother, aunt and uncle she never knew, as well as the mysterious Captain Derek who never leaves his room. And there are other mysteries to solve: What caused the rift between Uncle Gideon and her father? Why is Uncle Gideon’s piano nailed shut? And why do her parents send him letters in code from dangerous parts of Europe? FOR AGES 9 TO 12.

by Laini Taylor Karou always tells the truth about her life: Her hair is naturally blue, she was raised by several part-human creatures, and she runs errands around the world using magic doorways. Of course her friends never believe her, which is what she counts on. Then the doorways are marked and burned and her strange family disappears. It all has something to do with Akiva, an angel come to earth. He and Karou have an instant strong connection, but are they mortal enemies, true loves, or both?

FOR TEENS.

“AROUND THE WORLD”

by Matt Phelan This beautifully illustrated graphic novel tells the tales of three real-life journeys around the world. When Jules Verne’s “Around the World in Eighty Days” was published in 1873, many people were inspired by the fictional account. Phelan follows Thomas Stevens, a miner who bought a bicycle and biked around the world; Nellie Bly, a “girl reporter” who had the whole country eagerly following her exploits; and Joshua Slocum, who spent three years traveling the world’s oceans, alone in a sailboat. Readers may be inspired to also attempt the extraordinary! FOR AGES 8 TO 12.

WEBSITE THETOYMAKER.COM Artist Marilyn Scott-Waters has illustrated children’s books and published books of punch-out paper toys. On her website, she shares templates for many of her paper toy designs. There are dozens of choices, from Bunny Bowling to Monster Circus. Many toys require nothing but a color printer, scissors and glue to assemble. Others might need a simple addition like string or a marble. These fun toys are free, promote imaginative play, and best of all don’t need electricity, Wi-Fi or batteries! —LAURA NAWOJCHIK

GAMES

FAMILY APPS DINOSAUR APPS

“RHYTHM HEAVEN” (Nintendo Wii, $30, Rated E for Everyone)

The popular Nintendo DS music game receives a big screen upgrade with this Nintendo Wii version.

Players use visual clues to solve music puzzles and minigames. Swing the controller and press buttons in time with the music to advance in a number of new and classic challenges.

—SHAWN SINES

What child isn’t fascinated by dinosaurs? A slew of apps cater to that interest. On the education front, The American Museum of Natural History offers a free app that takes 1,000 interactive images from the museum’s archive to tell a compelling story about the Tyrannosaurus rex.

Talking Rex the Dinosaur is a completely different type of app ($2.99 on the iPad and 99-cents on the iPhone). With this one, you get an animated full-screen T-rex that repeats everything your child says in its threatening dinosaur voice. Kids can pet him or poke him. They can feed him steaks or play a game of fetch. All of these activities can be recorded and shared on YouTube and Facebook. —PHIL PIKELNY

YOUTUBE CHANNEL SIMON’S CAT Take control of your family’s YouTube.com experience by dazzling and impressing your kids with this channel: SIMONSCAT. These simple, hand-drawn animated shorts feature the hapless Simon and his curious, adorable cat. You don’t even need to have the volume turned on. Purrrr-fect!

—JANE HAWES

columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

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february 2012

OUT&ABOUT We’ve customized our daily calendar of events to highlight events that are FREE!

WEDNESDAY 1 FREE! Baby Games, Ages 0-18 months. No registration required.

10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

Disney On Ice: Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey, Join Mickey and Minnie Mouse as they travel to four exciting destinations in one fun-filled ice production. 7 p.m. Prices vary.

Nationwide Arena, 200 W Nationwide Blvd, Arena District. 800-745-3000. nationwidearena.com FREE! Family Story Time, Ages 2-5 years. No registration required. 7-7:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614486-2951.

Home School Wednesdays, For grades K-12. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $4 members, $6 non-members (per class).

Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org Metal Clay and Jewelry Making, Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org

THURSDAY 2 Disney On Ice: Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey, Join Mickey and Minnie Mouse as they travel to four exciting destinations in one fun-filled ice production. 7 p.m. Prices vary.

Nationwide Arena, 200 W Nationwide Blvd, Arena District. 800-745-3000. nationwidearena.com

FREE! Parent’s Morning Out, This free ministry is for parents who are looking for a morning out to do all those

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errands you can’t take your child to.

Children can enjoy structured play, crafts and stories in a safe and loving place. Our volunteers all have current background checks on file. No advanced registration is needed. The community is welcome. 9:30 a.m.-12 noon. Westerville First Presbyterian Church, 41 W. College Ave., Westerville.

614-560-1682. westervillefirstpresbyterian.org

FRIDAY 3 Disney On Ice: Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey, Join Mickey and Minnie Mouse as they travel to four exciting destinations in one fun-filled ice production. 7 p.m. Prices vary.

Nationwide Arena, 200 W Nationwide Blvd, Arena District. 800-745-3000. nationwidearena.com

FREE! First Friday Movies, How about catching a fun movie on the big screen at the Library? Bring your best buddy and a snack, if you wish! For grades K-5.

3:15-5 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview.

614-481-3778.

Friday Night Open Gyms, Join us for an Open Gym! Kids will enjoy two trampolines, large foam pit, two large spring floors, bars, balance beams and more!

Ages 7 and up. Walk-ins welcome.

Must have a signed waiver to participate! 8-10:15 p.m. $9. Gym X-Treme Gymnastics & Cheer, 7708 Green Meadows Dr., St. A, Lewis Center. 614-5738484. gymx-treme.com

SATURDAY 4 Creative Minds Junior Studio, An open art studio for students 7-12 years

| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

old, a variety of art media will be available for students to use. Monthly themes will be introduced but this is a student led activity. 12 noon-2 p.m. $36/4 sessions to be used in 3 months and/or with siblings/friends. Gallery 202, Partners in Art, Inc., 38 N. State St, Westerville. 614-890-8202. gallery202online.com/linkpages/creativemindsjunior.html Disney On Ice: Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey, Join Mickey and Minnie Mouse as they travel to four exciting destinations in one fun-filled ice production. 11 a.m., 3 p.m. 7 p.m.

Prices vary. Nationwide Arena, 200 W Nationwide Blvd, Arena District. 800745-3000. nationwidearena.com

FREE! Every Child Ready to Read: Fun with Math & Science, Did you know that math and science can help develop a child’s early literacy skills?

Games and fun activities will help 2-5 year-olds get ready to read! 10:30-11:30 a.m. Northwest Library, 2280 Hard Road, Worthington. 614-807-2626. worthingtonlibraries.org/calendar February Family Films: The Color Purple, 6 p.m. $3-$5. King Arts Complex, 867 Mt. Vernon Ave., East Side.

614-645-5464. kingartscomplex.com Painting, Work with local artist and watercolorist Lisa Schorr to discover the joy of painting with watercolors. Each month this trimester we will work with different painting media. For grades 48. 10 a.m.-12 noon. $10 members, $12 non-members. Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740681-1423. decartsohio.org The Rose Ensemble, 8 p.m. $20 for general admission; $5 for non-OWU students and senior citizens; free for

OCTAVIAN CANTILLI//DISPATCH PHOTO

PBJ & JAZZ CONCERT SERIES: NEW BASICS BRASS BAND Saturday, Feb. 18 — The fun and exciting series continues with a performance by the New Basics Brass Band. Head over to the Lincoln Theatre at 10 a.m., and the kid’s admission price will score them a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, cookie and juice to enjoy while listening to the tunes.

Tickets are $5. Call 614-294-5000 or visit jazzartsgroup.org to learn more about the series.

OWU students and employees. University Hall, 61 S. Sandusky St., Delaware.

740-203-6908. roseensemble.org Saturday Morning Youth Bowling League, Mixed boys and girls youth league. 10 a.m.-12 noon. $20 per person per week for a free ball at end of session. $10 per week without ball. Grove City Lanes, 3940 Broadway, Grove City.

614-875-4444. grovecitylanes.com

FREE! Saturday Story Stomp, Ages 25 years. No registration required. 1111:30 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview.

614-486-2951.

FREE! Tail Waggin’ Tutors, New reader? Just need practice? Kids ages 6 and up can sign up for ten minutes of readaloud time with Burgh, a gentle certified therapy dog. Registration required.

12 noon-1 p.m. Westerville Library, 126 S State St, Westerville. 614-882-7277 x5006. westervillelibrary.org

SUNDAY 5 Disney On Ice: Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey, Join Mickey and Minnie Mouse as they travel to four exciting destinations in one fun-filled ice production. 1 p.m., 5 p.m. Prices

vary. Nationwide Arena, 200 W Nationwide Blvd, Arena District. 800-7453000. nationwidearena.com Silk Scarf Workshop, Create your own hand-painted art scarf. Watercolorist Lisa Schorr will lead participants in this workshop. Supplies provided. 1-4 p.m. $56 members, $64 non-members. Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org Sunday Family Bowling League, 2 p.m. $5 per person per week. Grove City Lanes, 3940 Broadway, Grove City.

614-875-4444. grovecitylanes.com

MONDAY 6 FREE! Miller Park Mondays, Come to our monthly storytime for children who attend preschool on Tuesdays and Thursdays and can’t come to our normal storytimes. Join us for stories, flannelboards and fingerplays chosen just for ages 3-5. 10:15 a.m. Miller Park Branch Library, 1901 Arlington Ave, Upper Arlington. 614-488-5710.

FREE! Music & Movement, Ages 2-5 years. No registration required. 1-1:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-4862951.

Pre-School Artistic Adventures, Children’s books can bring artistic experiences to life! We will read a story that turns into an exciting art project. For ages 3 and 4. Must be accompanied by an adult. 10-11 a.m. $8 members, $10

non-members per class. Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org

TUESDAY 7 Blue Man Group, Blue Man Group is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts which combine comedy, music and technology to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. Although it is impossible to describe, people of all ages agree that Blue Man Group is an intensely exciting and wildly outrageous show that leaves the entire audience in a blissful, euphoric state. With no spoken language, Blue Man Group is perfect for people of all ages, languages and cultures. 8 p.m. $28 and up. Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St., Downtown. 614469-1045.

FREE! Learning Lab, Cure cabin fever by trying out some fun toys, meeting new friends and learning new skills in this parent-led playgroup. Drop in for a few minutes or stay the entire time.

Watch for new activities each week.

Ages 2-5. Siblings welcome. Registration required. 10-10:45 a.m. Westerville Library, 126 S State St, Westerville. 614882-7277 x5006. westervillelibrary.org

Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

FREE! Parent-Child Book Discussion, Library instructors facilitate a discussion of the selected title to teach critical thinking and appreciation for literature.

This month we will read Indian in the Cupboard by Lynne Reid Banks. Grades 3-5. 7 p.m. Upper Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington. 614-486-9621.

FREE! Beyblades, Join us on early dismissal days for an hour of rip-roaring fun. Bring your own blades and stadiums, if desired. Please label a plastic bag with your name to hold your extra blades and rip cords. Registration is required and begins two weeks prior.

Grades 1-3. 3 p.m. Upper Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington. 614-486-9621.

Let us cater your next event!

Blue Man Group, Blue Man Group is best known for their wildly popular the-

Parkview Center 610 W. Schrock Road Westerville (By FedEx ) At the Corner of Cleveland Ave. & Schrock

FREE! Tales for Toddlers, Ages 18-36 months. No registration required.

10:15-11:30 a.m. Grandview Heights

WEDNESDAY 8 FREE! Baby Games, Ages 0-18 months. No registration required.

10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

Monte Carlo Italian Kitchen

Real Homemade Italian Food

*Kids Eat for $1.99 on Monday Nights *Dine In Only *Only one meal per customer

Call for more details!

(614) 890-2061 www.montecarloitaliankitchen.com

columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

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Little Lambs Children’s Center • • • • •

Infant &Toddler Care starting at 6 weeks of age AM & PM preschool classes Day Care (6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.)

Extended Care Program Summer camps for children 5 years old to 6th grade Our mission is to join with families to provide quality care and education for young children in a safe and fun environment.

425 S. Hamilton Rd. Gahanna, Ohio 43230

Minutes from 270 in Gahanna 614-471-9269 614-471-0859

www.shepherdchristian.org Shepherd Christian School and Little Lambs Children’s Center recruits and admits students of any race, color, gender, or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities available at the school.

Shepherd Christian School • Ohio chartered non-public school.

• Classes for all students include Spanish, Music,Technology and Physical Education.

• Low class size • Excellent teachers • Extended Care Program • Full-day Kindergarten

The Premier Solution For Parents Providing Hourly, Flexible and Full-Time Child Care

We offer an hourly drop off child care program for children 8 weeks to 10 years.

Children can play, socialize, learn and explore for an hour or the whole day.

FULL-TIME INFANT ROOM NO WAITING LISTS! NO CONTRACTS!

Mango’s place allows parents the opportunity to:

DISCOUNT FOR SET SCHEDULE FOR PARENTS WORKING PART-TIME OR SPLIT SHIFTS

Run Errands • Attend Appointments • Have a Date Night Now Open Fr Until 10:00 idays PM & Satu Private Birthrdays for day Call for DetaParties! ils

ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS:

Bring in this coupon

Dublin/Hilliard

of Child Care

5601 Woerner Temple Road Corner of Emerald Pkwy.

For One FREE Hour (New members only)

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(614) 790-9970 www.mangosplace.com

| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

SUMMER CAMP * AGES 2 1/2 AND UP * 1ST SESSION: SPACE IS THE PLACE * 2ND SESSION: UNDERWATER ADVENTURES * CALL FOR PRICING PRESCHOOL *AGES 2 1/2 TO 5 -*CHILDREN LEARN THROUGH PLAY, EXPLORATION AND AN ENVIRONMENT WHICH PROMOTES A LOVE OF LEARNING *NO POTTY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

feb 2012 atrical shows and concerts which combine comedy, music and technology to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. Although it is impossible to describe, people of all ages agree that Blue Man Group is an intensely exciting and wildly outrageous show that leaves the entire audience in a blissful, euphoric state. With no spoken language, Blue Man Group is perfect for people of all ages, languages and cultures. 8 p.m. $28 and up. Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St., Downtown. 614469-1045.

FREE! Bookworms Book Club, Read, dance, chant and craft in this book club designed just for pre-readers. Parents take part in the fun! Ages 4-6. Registration required. 4-4:45 p.m. Westerville Library, 126 S State St, Westerville. 614882-7277 x5006. westervillelibrary.org FREE! Child Check, The Early Childhood Resource Network offer Child Check screenings for children ages 1month through 5 years in areas of gross-motor, fine-motor, speech and language and personal/social skills.

Vision screenings are offered to children over 3 and hearing for all ages.

9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Hilltop Lutheran Church, 12 S Terrace Ave, West Side.

614-543-9000 ext. 216.

FREE! Family Story Time, Ages 2-5 years. No registration required. 7-7:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-4862951.

Intermediate Knitting, Enhance your knitting skills in this 4 week intermediate class in February. Participants must have previous experience in increase, decrease, knitting and purl. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $10 Residents, $12 Non-Residents, plus supplies. Groveport Town Hall, 648 Main St., Groveport. 614-836-3333. groveport.org Metal Clay and Jewelry Making, Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org

THURSDAY 9 Blue Man Group, Blue Man Group is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts which combine comedy, music and technology to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. Although it is impossible to describe, people of all ages agree that Blue Man Group is an intensely exciting

and wildly outrageous show that leaves the entire audience in a blissful, euphoric state. With no spoken language, Blue Man Group is perfect for people of all ages, languages and cultures. 8 p.m. $28 and up. Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St., Downtown. 614469-1045.

Columbus Children’s Theatre: Getting Near to Baby, Adapted from a Newbery Honor book, this poignant play traces a family’s journey of acceptance and understanding in the face of loss. Opening night, 7:30 p.m. More performances continue throughout the month. $10-21. Park Street Theatre, 512 N. Park St., Arena District. 614-2246672. colschildrenstheatre.org FREE! Chess Club, Checkmate! Chess lovers of all levels are welcome to join the UAPL chess. Our local teen expert(s) will moderate, help beginners and suggest strategies to players. Registration is required and begins two weeks before each meeting. Grades 3-6. 4 p.m. Upper Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington. 614-486-9621.

February Film Series Matinee, Students from local schools view the featured film on the big screen in the Historic Pythian Theatre. Interactive study guide provided to participating teachers featuring pre-visit and post visit information. Reservations required. $5, $3 for CCS Empowerment zone schools. King Arts Complex, 867 Mt. Vernon Ave., King Lincoln. 614-6455464.. thekingartscomplex FREE! Parent’s Morning Out, This free ministry is for parents who are looking for a morning out to do all those errands you can’t take your child to.

Children can enjoy structured play, crafts and stories in a safe and loving place. Our volunteers all have current background checks on file. No advanced registration is needed. The community is welcome. 9:30 a.m.-12 noon. Westerville First Presbyterian Church, 41 W. College Ave., Westerville.

614-560-1682. westervillefirstpresbyterian.org FREE! Storytubes, Do you like to talk about books? Stop by to make a short two-minute video using our cameras, computers, puppets and props. Then, enter your video in the national Storytubes contest at storytubes.info to win cool prizes. All ages. 6-8 p.m. Westerville Library, 126 S State St, Westerville.

614-882-7277 x5006. westervillelibrary.org

FRIDAY 10 Blue Man Group, Blue Man Group is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts which com-

bine comedy, music and technology to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. Although it is impossible to describe, people of all ages agree that Blue Man Group is an intensely exciting and wildly outrageous show that leaves the entire audience in a blissful, euphoric state. With no spoken language, Blue Man Group is perfect for people of all ages, languages and cultures. 8 p.m. $28 and up. Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St., Downtown. 614469-1045.

Friday Night Open Gyms, Join us for an Open Gym! Kids will enjoy two trampolines, large foam pit, two large spring floors, bars, balance beams and more!

Ages 7 and up. Walk-ins welcome.

Must have a signed waiver to participate! 8-10:15 p.m. $9. Gym X-Treme Gymnastics & Cheer, 7708 Green Meadows Dr., St. A, Lewis Center. 614-5738484. gymx-treme.com FREE! Jewelry & Gift Show, Visit exhibitors offering a selection of handmade art and craft creations and for the latest trends and ideas to enhance your home and lifestyle. You’ll also find products offered by popular homebased business representatives. Mall At Tuttle Crossing, 5043 Tuttle Crossing Blvd, Dublin. 330-493-4130.

Poetry by Anthony Zerbe, Actor Anthony Zerbe presents the poetry of E.E. Cummings. 8 p.m. $20 for general admission; $5 for non-OWU students and senior citizens; and free for OWU students and employees. Chappelear Drama Center, Ohio Wesleyan University, 45 Rowland Ave., Delaware. 740-2036908. poetinmo.com/done_with_ mirrors.html

SATURDAY 11 Blue Man Group, Blue Man Group is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts which combine comedy, music and technology to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. Although it is impossible to describe, people of all ages agree that Blue Man Group is an intensely exciting and wildly outrageous show that leaves the entire audience in a blissful, euphoric state. With no spoken language, Blue Man Group is perfect for people of all ages, languages and cultures. 8 p.m. $28 and up. Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St., Downtown. 614469-1045.

Columbus Winter Farmers Market, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Clintonville Womans Club, 3951 N. High St., Clintonville. 614-2685525. columbuswinterfarmers market.com/blog/ Creative Minds Junior Studio, An open art studio for students 7-12 years

Winter White

Now through February 29, SAVE UP TO 20% with a FREE UPGRADE from white to one of our rich woodgrain finishes.*

Š2012 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Franchises independently owned and operated.

*Offer valid at participating locations through 02.29.12 on new orders only, and cannot be combined with other offers. See showroom for details.

BROOKLYN HEIGHTS 1100 Resource Dr. | 216.741.9000

COLUMBUS 1502 Gemini Place | 614.431.0011 | CaliforniaClosets.com/Columbus COLUMBUS 1502 Gemini Place | 614.431.0011 | CaliforniaClosets.com

columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

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feb 2012 old, a variety of art media will be available for students to use. Monthly themes will be introduced but this is a student led activity. 12 noon-2 p.m. $36/4 sessions to be used in 3 months and/or with siblings/friends. Gallery 202, Partners in Art, Inc., 38 N. State St, Westerville. 614-890-8202. gallery202online.com/linkpages/creativemindsjunior.html FREE! Family Gaming Fun, Grab your library card and check out Yahtzee, Clue or another classic board game from the Youth Services desk. Have your own family game night in the library! All ages. 3-5 p.m. Westerville Library, 126 S State St, Westerville. 614882-7277 x5006. westervillelibrary.org FREE! Hearts & Crafts, Join us for a morning of hearts & crafts at KidSpace.

Kids ages 3-12 are invited to attend this free Just for Kids event. Preregistration is required. Children ages 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult. 1011 a.m. Crooked Alley KidSpace, 630 Wirt Rd., Groveport. 614-836-3333. groveport.org

What s Happening in February?

FREE! Jewelry & Gift Show, Visit exhibitors offering a selection of handmade art and craft creations and for the latest trends and ideas to enhance your home and lifestyle. You’ll also find products offered by popular homebased business representatives. Mall At Tuttle Crossing, 5043 Tuttle Crossing Blvd, Dublin. 330-493-4130.

Saturday Morning Youth Bowling League, Mixed boys and girls youth league. 10 a.m.-12 noon. $20 per person per week for free ball at end of session. $10 per week without ball. Grove City Lanes, 3940 Broadway, Grove City.

614-875-4444. grovecitylanes.com Saturday Studio, Saturday Studio offers students a variety of topics and media to work with. This trimester we will work on illustrations, drawing, watercolor, printmaking, carving, and bookmaking. Check the website for specific topics and descriptions. For grades K-8. 10 a.m.-12 noon. $8 members, $10 non-members per class. Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org

Two exhibitions on view: Orchids! Vibrant Victoriana and The History and the Mystery. Special orchid programming and classes, family fun and more!

1777 East Broad Street | Columbus, Ohio 43203 614.645.8733 | www.fpconservatory.org

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| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

SUNDAY 12 Blue Man Group, Blue Man Group is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts which com-

bine comedy, music and technology to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. Although it is impossible to describe, people of all ages agree that Blue Man Group is an intensely exciting and wildly outrageous show that leaves the entire audience in a blissful, euphoric state. With no spoken language, Blue Man Group is perfect for people of all ages, languages and cultures. 8 p.m. $28 and up. Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St., Downtown. 614-469-1045.

FREE! Mother Daughter Book Club, Girls in grades 3-5 and their mothers (or grandmothers!) are invited to join us and talk books. Registration is required.

Selected title: “Little House in the Big Woods” by Laura Ingalls Wilder. 7-8 p.m. Northwest Library, 2280 Hard Road, Worthington. 614-807-2626. worthingtonlibraries.org/calendar

February Family Films: The Shawshank Redemption, 6 p.m. $3-$5.

King Arts Complex, 867 Mt. Vernon Ave., 614-645-5464. kingartscomplex.com

FREE! Music & Movement, Ages 2-5 years. No registration required. 1-1:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-4862951.

FREE! Jewelry & Gift Show, Visit exhibitors offering a selection of handmade art and craft creations and for the latest trends and ideas to enhance your home and lifestyle. You’ll also find products offered by popular homebased business representatives. Mall At Tuttle Crossing, 5043 Tuttle Crossing Blvd, Dublin. 330-493-4130.

FREE! Scrapbooking Gathering, Bring your scrapbooking projects to Town Hall for a day of crafting and socializing. Our spacious room will allow you to layout all of your pages easily. Music and snacks will be provided to participants. 2-5 p.m. Groveport Town Hall, 648 Main St., Groveport.

614-836-3333. groveport.org Sunday Family Bowling League, 2 p.m. $5 per person per week. Grove City Lanes, 3940 Broadway, Grove City.

614-875-4444. grovecitylanes.com FREE! Tail Wagging Tutors, Kids in grades K-5 are invited to join Marty Marlatt and her trained therapy dogs for a fun way to practice their reading skills. Participants will take turns sharing stories with registered therapy dogs.

We’ll provide the books or you can bring your favorites. 2 p.m. Lane Road Library, 1945 Lane Road, Upper Arlington. 614-459-0273.

MONDAY 13 FREE! After-School Drop-In Art Programs, Join local artist Kristen Brown for some fun “make it, take it” art projects after school. Drop in anytime during the hour, get creative and have fun!

No registration required. For grades K5. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

Decorate Valentine Cookies, Decorate a Valentine cookie during this one night class. Kids will use Valentine themed colored icing and toppings to create their own special cookie. Children ages 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult. 7-8 p.m. $2 Resi-

dents , $3 Non-Residents. Crooked Alley KidSpace, 630 Wirt Rd., Groveport. 614836-3333. groveport.org

TUESDAY 14 FREE! Learning Lab, Cure cabin fever by trying out some fun toys, meeting new friends, and learning new skills in this parent-led playgroup. Drop in for a few minutes or stay the entire time.

Watch for new activities each week.

Ages 2-5. Siblings welcome. Registration required. 10-10:45 a.m. Westerville Library, 126 S State St, Westerville. 614882-7277 x5006. westervillelibrary.org FREE! Reading to Rover, Meet some therapy dogs from Central Ohio Good Shepherds, and improve your reading skills too! Beginning readers can read to these very patient listeners, and learn about the therapy dog program.

Grades K-5. 7 p.m. Miller Park Branch Library, 1901 Arlington Ave, Upper Arlington. 614-488-5710.

FREE! Tales for Toddlers, Ages 18-36 months. No registration required.

10:15-11:30 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

WEDNESDAY 15 FREE! Baby Games, Ages 0-18 months. No registration required.

10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

Bleach Pen Batik Bandanas, Teens can get in touch with their crafty sides by making batik-patterned bandanas using bleach pens and colored fabric scraps. Registration required. 4-5 p.m.

Westerville Library, 126 S State St, Westerville. 614-882-7277 x5006. westervillelibrary.org FREE! Every Child Ready to Read: Fun with Letters, Games and activities that focus on Letter Knowledge, an important early literacy skill, will help 25 year-olds get ready to read! 7-8 p.m.

Old Worthington Library, 820 High St., Worthington. 614-807-2626. worthingtonlibraries.org/calendar

Because Q & A ! is in our DNA

Bring your curiosity to COSI!

A Project of American Anthropological Association. Funded by Ford Foundation & National Science Foundation.

JANUARY 28 – MAY 6, 2012

TESS COLWELL/DISPATCH PHOTO

TAIL WAGGIN’ TUTORS AND READING TO ROVER Saturday, Feb. 4; Sunday, Feb. 12; Tuesday, Feb. 14 — Take the time to read with some furry friends! February brings three different opportunities to practice skills with certified therapy dogs at the Westerville and Upper Arlington libraries.

The programs are free and open to kids in grades K-5. Check the Columbus Parent Calendar for individual times and information.

FREE! Family Story Time, Ages 2-5 years. No registration required. 7-7:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-4862951.

Home School Wednesdays, For grades K-12. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $4 members, $6 non-members (per class). Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org Metal Clay and Jewelry Making, Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org FREE! Teen Blog Editorial Board, Join us for our monthly meeting for current and new members. We learn about new technologies, discuss potential blog topics and brainstorm about future teen programming. Registration begins two weeks prior. Grades 8-12. 4 p.m. Upper Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington.

614-486-9621.

THURSDAY 16 FREE! All Aboard the Titanic, What was it like to be on the Titanic? The famous ship’s fateful first voyage will be the focus of an informative program for

kids in grades 4-6. 4-5 p.m. Old Worthington Library, 820 High St., Worthington. 614-807-2626. worthingtonlibraries.org/calendar February Family Films: Hotel Rwanda (PG-13), 6 p.m. $3-$5. King Arts Complex, 867 Mt. Vernon Ave., 614645-5464. kingartscomplex.com FREE! Lego Lit, When books and LEGOs collide, you get LEGO Lit. Each month we will share a story and build creations around a theme. The Friends of the Library provide the LEGOs, you provide the fun. (Participants will not be able to keep their creations.) Registration is required and begins two weeks prior to each event. Grades K-4.

4 p.m. Upper Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington.

614-486-9621.

Monique - A Mystery, Murder mysteries are often filled with clues about the ending, but this one is different. A combination of suspense, deception, and obsession leaves one without a clue how the last page will turn. 8-10:30 p.m. Adults $13, Seniors $11, Students $11, Kids $8. Licking County Players, 131 W Main St., Newark. 740-349-2287. lickingcountyplayers.org FREE! Parent’s Morning Out, This free ministry is for parents who are looking

for a morning out to do all those errands you can’t take your child to.

Children can enjoy structured play, crafts and stories in a safe and loving place. Our volunteers all have current background checks on file. No advanced registration is needed. The community is welcome. 9:30 a.m.-12 noon. Westerville First Presbyterian Church, 41 W. College Ave., Westerville.

614-560-1682. westervillefirstpresbyterian.org FREE! Storytubes, Do you like to talk about books? Stop by to make a short two-minute video using our cameras, computers, puppets and props. Then, enter your video in the national Storytubes contest at storytubes.info to win cool prizes. All ages. 6-8 p.m. Westerville Library, 126 S State St, Westerville.

614-882-7277 x5006. westervillelibrary.org

Explore the similarities and differences among people and the realities of race. With hands-on activities, compelling photography, and fascinating artifacts, it’s an exhibit the whole family can explore together.

Presenting Sponsor:

Media Partners:

Supporting Sponsor:

Inspire your childit’sh COSI’s curiosity w ps. o

Early Childhood Worksh Register today for COSI’s hands-on workshops for your young scientist! Visit cosi.org to learn about upcoming COSI workshops designed to help children ages six months to six years to explore our amazing world.

Engineering Challenge Day

SCIENCE DAYS ANNUAL PRESENTING SPONSOR:

February 18, 11am–3:30pm Work together to solve problems in a series of highly interactive engineering challenges throughout COSI.

FRIDAY 17 Friday Night Open Gyms, Join us for an Open Gym! Kids will enjoy two trampolines, large foam pit, two large spring floors, bars, balance beams and more!

Ages 7 and up. Walk-ins welcome.

Must have a signed waiver to participate! 8-10:15 p.m. $9. Gym X-Treme Gymnastics & Cheer, 7708 Green Mead-

COSI open Presidents Day February 20

cosi.org 614.228.2674 333 W. Broad St., Columbus, Ohio 43215 Stay connected: columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

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2011-2012 SEASON

LU I S B I AVA, M U S I C D I R E C TO R

PORTRAITS OF A COLUMBUS BICENTENNIAL Sunday, February 12, 3:00 PM Luis Biava conductor | Jym Ganahl narrator Copland Lincoln Portrait Copland Appalachian Spring Celebrate President’s Day and Black History Month with a musical history lesson on Abraham Lincoln, including music by Aaron Copland and a Bicentennial photo montage of Columbus projected on a giant screen above the orchestra!

TICKETS NOW ON SALE!

Presented by:

614-245-4701 | www.newalbanysymphony.com

Media support provided by:

All NASO Concerts are held at the Jeanne B. McCoy Community Center for the Arts

K I D S S TAY AC T I V E W I T H G R O V E C I T Y PA R K S & R E C R E AT I O N SUMMER P.A.R.K.:

REGISTRATION OPENS APRIL 3

This full-day child care program for grades K-4 keeps children engaged mentally and physically with diverse activities including on-site mini-camps and weekly field trips. Summer P.A.R.K. operates from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, from Monday, June 11 through Friday, Aug. 10.

Celebrating 25 years of keeping children active

2012-13 P.A.R.K.: REGISTER STARTING MAY 14 Programmed After-school Recreation for Kids (P.A.R.K.), provides a safe, engaging and affordable place to be after school. Children in grades K-4 choose from a variety of fun, active, enriching and spontaneous activities at five South-Western City elementary school sites. Before-school options are also available.

Grove City Parks & Recreation

614-277-3050 • 4035 Broadway • Grove City, OH 43123 www.GroveCityOhio.gov • facebook.com/GroveCityOhio • twitter.com/GroveCityOhio

feb 2012 ows Dr., St. A, Lewis Center. 614-5738484. gymx-treme.com Monique - A Mystery, Murder mysteries are often filled with clues about the ending, but this one is different. A combination of suspense, deception, and obsession leaves one without a clue how the last page will turn. 8-10:30 p.m. Adults $13, Seniors $11, Students $11, Kids $8. Licking County Players, 131 W Main St., Newark. 740-349-2287. lickingcountyplayers.org FREE! Spectrum Storytime, This is a new monthly storytime designed for young children on the Autism spectrum, and/or children with sensory integration issues. We will have stories, songs and activities to encourage literacy and positive associations with reading and the library. Registration is required and is limited to 10 children and their caregivers. There is no age restriction, however this program is designed for children with a developmental stage of 3-5 years old. 4 p.m.

Upper Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington. 614-4869621.

SATURDAY 18 Creative Minds Junior Studio, An open art studio for students 7-12 years old, a variety of art media will be available for students to use. Monthly themes will be introduced but this is a student led activity.12 noon-2 p.m. $36/4 sessions to be used in 3 months and/or with siblings/friends. Gallery 202, Partners in Art, Inc., 38 N. State St, Westerville. 614-890-8202. gallery202online.com/linkpages/creativemindsjunior.html Dogs Gone Wild, Have you ever met a real talking dog? Get ready because when comedian and ventriloquist Todd Oliver takes the stage you’ll meet three of them at this family show. 7 a.m.-9 p.m. $12 and up. Midland Theatre, 36 N. Park Pl., Newark. 740-345-5483. midlandtheatre.org Monique - A Mystery, Murder mysteries are often filled with clues about the ending, but this one is different. A combination of suspense, deception, and obsession leaves one without a clue how the last page will turn. 8-10:30 p.m. Adults $13, Seniors $11, Students $11, Kids $8. Licking County Players, 131 W Main St., Newark. 740-349-2287. lickingcountyplayers.org

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| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

JODI MILLER PHOTO

COLUMBUS WINTER FARMERS MARKET Saturday, Feb. 11 and Saturday, Feb. 25 — Even though the weather may be chilly, the farmers markets are still up and running and a great way to spend a Saturday with the family. From 10 a.m.-1 p.m. two Saturdays during February, visit the Clintonville Woman’s Club at 3951 N. High St. You’ll find an array of fresh fruits, vegetables and other treats that are sure to brighten your winter. There will also be some live entertainment.

Check out columbuswinterfarmersmarket.com for more information and a list of featured vendors.

FREE! Open Chess Club, Calling all chess players 6 and up! Keep your skills sharp with an hour-long session of free play. Basic chess knowledge required.

3-4 p.m. Westerville Library, 126 S State St, Westerville. 614-882-7277 x5006. westervillelibrary.org PBJ & Jazz Concert Series: New Basics Brass Band, PBJ & Jazz concerts are 1-hour long interactive concerts designed to introduce jazz and American music to young children and their families. 10 a.m. $5. Lincoln Theatre,

769 E. Long St., East Side. 614-2945200.

Pop-Can Flowers, This class will use pop cans to design colorful flower sculptures that can be used in the garden or on the wall as decoration. For grades 3-6. 10 a.m.-12 noon. $10 members, $12 non-members. Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org Saturday Morning Youth Bowling League, Mixed boys and girls youth

FREE! Saturday Story Stomp, Ages 25 years. No registration required. 1111:30 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview.

614-486-2951.

FREE! Stories for Babies, Babies and their caregivers are invited for a special Saturday morning storytime. Older siblings are invited to bring a doll or stuffed animal to be their “baby.” 11 a.m.-12 noon. Northwest Library, 2280 Hard Road, Worthington. 614-807-2626. worthingtonlibraries.org/calendar

SUNDAY 19 Monique - A Mystery, Murder mysteries are often filled with clues about the ending, but this one is different. A combination of suspense, deception, and obsession leaves one without a clue how the last page will turn. 2-4:30 p.m.

Adults $13, Seniors $11, Students $11, Kids $8. Licking County Players, 131 W Main St., Newark. 740-349-2287. lickingcountyplayers.org Sunday Family Bowling League, 2 p.m. $5 per person per week. Grove City Lanes, 3940 Broadway, Grove City.

614-875-4444. grovecitylanes.com

MONDAY 20 Pre-School Artistic Adventures, Children’s books can bring artistic experiences to life! We will read a story that turns into an exciting art project. For ages 3 and 4. Must be accompanied by an adult. 10-11 a.m. $8 members, $10 non-members per class. Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster/ 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org

TUESDAY 21 Beastly Bites: Pet Treats 101, Show your pet how much you care! We’ll prepare treats for cats, dogs and critters for you to take home and back up fresh.

We’ll supply all materials (no nuts/nut products will be present). Registration is required and begins Feb. 7. Grades 25. 4 p.m. Upper Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington.

614-486-9621.

FREE! Tales for Toddlers, Ages 18-36 months. No registration required.

10:15-11:30 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

Teen Studio, Study the different styles of art in the galleries and then use our studio time to create your own expressions in art. We will be using paints,

clay, printmaking and drawing. For grades 8-12. 5-7 p.m. $62 members, $72 non-members. Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org

WEDNESDAY 22 FREE! Baby Games, Ages 0-18 months. No registration required.

10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

FREE! Family Story Time, Ages 2-5 years. No registration required. 7-7:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-4862951.

Good Cooking for your Kidneys, Join the Central Ohio Chapter of the Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Foundation for a healthy and fun evening as we tour the new Giant Eagle Market District alongside a dietician, who will discuss and recommend foods appropriate for people with PKD or other kidney-compromising diseases. After the tour we will take a seat at the demo kitchen and watch a cooking demonstration of a kidney-friendly meal. 7-9 p.m. Giant Eagle Market District, 3061 Kingsdale Ctr., Upper Arlington. 614-633-5158. pkdcure.org/tabid/474/Default.aspx

Vernon Ave., East Side. 614-645-5464. kingartscomplex.com FREE! Manga/Pokemon Unleashed, Kids in grades K-3 will draw their favorite manga characters and learn the history of anime during this program dedicated to the Japanese art form. 4-5 p.m. Old Worthington Library, 820 High St., Worthington. 614-807-2626. worthingtonlibraries.org/calendar Monique - A Mystery, Murder mysteries are often filled with clues about the ending, but this one is different. A combination of suspense, deception, and obsession leaves one without a clue how the last page will turn. 8-10:30 p.m. Adults $13, Seniors $11, Students $11, Kids $8. Licking County Players, 131 W Main St., Newark. 740-349-2287. lickingcountyplayers.org FREE! Parent’s Morning Out, This free ministry is for parents who are looking for a morning out to do all those errands you can’t take your child to. Children can enjoy structured play, crafts and stories in a safe and loving place. Our volunteers all have current background checks on file. No advanced registration is needed. The community is welcome. 9:30 a.m.-12 noon. Westerville First Presbyterian Church, 41 W. College Ave., Westerville. 614-560-1682. westervillefirstpresbyterian.org

FREE! Happy Leap Year Craft Nite, It only comes once every 4 years so don’t miss out on this fun-filled craft night!

Ages 3-12 are invited to attend this free Just for Kids event. Children ages 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Crooked Alley KidSpace, 630 Wirt Rd., Groveport. 614-836-3333. groveport.org

FRIDAY 24

Metal Clay and Jewelry Making, Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org

Solve It: Mystery Night, Team up with your friends and compete for prizes in this popular program, then stick around for pizza and games!

Space is limited. Registration required beginning Friday, Feb. 10. For grades 58 & 7-12. 7-9 p.m. $2. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-481-3778.

Oooey Gooey Science Night, Kids ages 3-8 join us for a night of cool, gross and fun science experiments and crafts at KidSpace! Be prepared to get messy, bring a smock or wear old clothes. Children ages 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult. 7-8 p.m. $5 Residents, $7 Non-Residents.

Crooked Alley KidSpace, 630 Wirt Rd., Groveport. 614-836-3333. groveport.org FREE! Sing-A-Story, Join our in-house musician Brian Griffin and his guitar for a morning of stories and songs. 10:15 a.m. Miller Park Branch Library, 1901 Arlington Ave, Upper Arlington. 614488-5710.

THURSDAY 23 February Family Films: Precious, 6 p.m. $3-5. King Arts Complex, 867 Mt.

Family Friday Night, COSI stays open late for family-friendly fun the last Friday of every month! You can explore science, discover fun and stay late! 5-9 p.m. $8. COSI Columbus, 333 W. Broad St., Downtown. 614-228-2674. cosi.org

FREE! BalletMet Open Rehearsal, Open rehearsals provide a glimpse into the creative process and a sneak peek of an upcoming production. 5-6 p.m.

BalletMet Performance Space, 322 Mt. Vernon Ave., Downtown. 614-2294860. balletmet.org Monique - A Mystery, Murder mysteries are often filled with clues about the ending, but this one is different. A combination of suspense, deception, and obsession leaves one without a clue how the last page will turn. 8-10:30 p.m. Adults $13, Seniors $11, Students $11, Kids $8. Licking County Players, 131 W Main St., Newark. 740-349-2287. lickingcountyplayers.org

Win FOUR TICKETS to a performance of

Bring your entire family to watch the world’s most celebrated classical ballet!

BALLETMET DANCERS EMILY GOSTSCHALL AND ANDRES ESTEVEZ

league. 10 a.m.- 12 noon. $20 per person per week for free ball at end of session. $10 per week without ball. Grove City Lanes, 3940 Broadway, Grove City.

614-875-4444. grovecitylanes.com

March 9-11, 2012 AT THE MAGNIFICENT OHIO THEATRE

BALLETMET.ORG | FACEBOOK.COM/BALLETMET | TWITTER.COM/BALLETMET TICKETMASTER.COM | 800-982-2787 PHOTOGRAPHY: WILL SHIVELY

Production Sponsor:

Watch the Columbus Parent Magazine Facebook page for your chance to enter and win! columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

51

Gift Cards Available!

New Weekday Rates:

PARENTS CLUBS AND SUPPORT GROUPS

$5 for all age golfers for 18 holes of Glow-in-the-Dark Mini Golf!

Gahanna Moms Network A support group for stay-at-home moms residing in the 43230 zip code and/or the Gahanna school district. Email gahannamoms@yahoo.com for more information.

B.O.G.O.

Grandparent Support A group is forming for grandparents who watch young grandchildren on a regular part-time or full-time basis while their parents work. The group will be a place for sharing ideas of things to do and places to go with little ones, and also a place for support for the wonderful work grandparents are doing. For more information, contact Marie Takacs at 614-891-2532 or at greenteamarie@hotmail.com.

CP 2/12

BUY ONE ROUND OF MINI-GOLF GET ONE ROUND OF MINI-GOLF FREE (equal or lesser value)

161 Granville Street Gahanna, OH 43230

614.428.GLOW • www.GlowPuttOhio.com

Arlington Childrens Center Latch-key w/ transportation to local schools Full & Part Time available 6:45am-6pm M-F Convenient to 315 and OSU U Enrolling children 6 wks to 12 years Title XX accepted Now enrolling for summer On site swimming pool and field trips

Over 43 years of caring for children!

1033 Old Henderson Rd. Columbus, 43220

451-5400

www.arlingtonchildrens.com info@arlingtonchildrens.com

Celebrating 20 Years in Greater Columbus!

Music & Movement - Birth through g 5 years ears

Playfully Nurture Early Skills

Register Now for Winter Session

614-868-0107 www.wejoysing.com 10% OFF ENROLLMENT With This Ad 16 Locations - Weekdays, Evenings, and Saturdays

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| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

Mocha Moms of Greater Columbus, Ohio A national support group for mothers of color paths to allow them to devote more time to their families. Meets the second Wednesday of each month (January - May and September - December) at 9:30 a.m. Group chooses monthly topic on which a professional presents. Childcare for toddlers and infants available, but children are welcome to stay with their mothers. Visit mochamomsofcolumbus.org/ to view current calendar of playgroups, moms’ nights out, and family events. Membership costs $40 per year and must be purchased through the national web site. Visit mochamoms.org/memsub.html and select the Columbus, OH Chapter.

Mom2Mom For moms-to-be and moms with infants through school-aged children to come, make new friends and be encouraged as they walk down the road of motherhood together. Meets every fourth Monday of the month from 7-8:30 p.m. (childcare provided) at Madison Christian Church, 3565 Bixby Rd., Groveport. Contact 614491-3232.

Mommies of Miracles A growing international, peer-driven support group of mothers who have children of any age with complex medical issues, rare or undiagnosed conditions and/or developmental disabilities. Facebook page offers numerous links for parents of children with exceptional needs. Search “Mommies of Miracles” on Facebook and choose the first result.

MOMS Club of Clintonville A fun social and support group for stay-at-home moms and their children. Playgroups, field trips and monthly moms’ nights out. Meetings are 10 a.m. on the second Wednesday of each month (locations vary). For membership information visit 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 momsclubofdelaware@hotmail.com.

MOMS Club of Dublin Central Support group for stay-at-home moms. We plan weekly playgroups and activities, and a monthly moms’ night out.

Meets at 9:45 a.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at Vineyard Church, 5400 Avery Rd. Contact momsclubdublin_central@yahoo.com.

MOMS Club of Dublin SouthEast Interact with other moms, participate in playgroups, find out about local kid-friendly activities, enjoy informative speakers and attend a much deserved moms-only night out every month. Meetings are the second Friday of each month at 10 a.m. Visit our website at momsclubofdublinse.webs.com or contact our Membership VP at momsclubofdublinse @yahoo.com to learn more.

MOMS Club of DublinWest Offers a variety of activities each month. Meetings, mom and tot activities, play groups, parties and a moms’ night out. For more information email momsclubofdublinwest@gmail.com.

MOMS Club of Gahanna Support group for stayat-home moms. Also serves Blacklick and parts of New Albany. Contact Shannon at 614-759-5097 or MOMSClubofGahanna@gmail.com.

MOMS Club of Hilliard Northeast A social and support group for stay-at-home and part-time working moms and their children. Playgroups, field trips and moms’ nights out. If interested in joining this group, please contact Teresa at tdterranova@columbus.rr.com.

MOMS Club of Hilliard-Northwest A social support group for stay-at-home moms and moms working part time and their children. We offer playgroups, field trips, mom’s nights out and much more. A general business meeting with a speaker on a topic of relevance is held the first Monday of each month. For more information, email momsclubhilliardnorthwest@yahoo.com.

third Monday of the month at Worthington Presbyterian Church. Email join@worthingtonmoms.org for more information. moms2moms Gain encouragement and explore how to become better equipped to face the challenges of motherhood. We meet the second Thursday of each month, September through May (except December) from 7 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. at Northwest Bible Church, 6639 Scioto Darby Rd., Hilliard. For more information, email nwb.moms2moms@gmail.com.

MOPS Pickerington Fellowship and support group open to all moms with young children; 9 to11 a.m. the second Saturday of each month; Peace United Methodist Church, 235 Diley Rd., Pickerington; 614-837-3732.

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 or email mops@UALC.org.

Mothers of Multiples East Columbus Support and social group for mothers of multiples. Meetings are at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at Messiah Lutheran Church, 1200 Waggoner Rd., Reynoldsburg. Email ECMom.org for membership information.

MOMS Club of Lewis Center Southeast A nonprofit 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 Sherry at Moms_Club_Membership@yahoo.com or go to http://momscluboflewiscenter.com

“My” Food-Allergy Support Group A group for parents of children dealing with life-threatening food allergies. We offer monthly meetings, occasional non-food family activities and a private email group for additional support, sharing of concerns, successes, coping strategies, resources and tools. Email Dena Friedel at dena@foodallergyaids.com.

MOMS Club of Pickerington North Support group for stay-at-home moms. Serves Pickerington (North of Refugee Rd.), Reynoldsburg and Pataskala. Email momclubpn@yahoo.com for more info.

New Moms’ Group An opportunity for new mothers and their babies to meet others and share information. Meets from 1:30-2:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Elizabeth Blackwell Center, 3635 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus. Free. 614-566-4446.

MOMS Club of Powell Northeast One of three MOMS clubs serving Powell. Support group for stay at home moms and moms who work part time looking to connect with other moms. Various activities for moms and kids. For more information visit sites.google.com/site/momsclubpowellne.

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.

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 at Sunbury United Methodist Church.

Monthly activities include play dates, local outings, cooking club, book club and moms’ night out.

Contact MOMS Club of Sunbury at sunburymomsclub@yahoo.com, or call 740-936-7810 for more information.

MOMS Club of Worthington Support group for stay-at-home moms who want company during the daytime; activities include speakers, parties, playgroups and child-run service projects. Meets

Radiant Life Moms—Dublin Fellowship support group for moms with newborns through sixth grade. Meets 7p.m. the first Thursday of each month at Radiant Life Church. Third Thursday is moms’ night out. For more information call Lindsay at 614-571-2995.

Westerville Moms Group Support group for stay-at-home moms. We have play groups, craft days and a monthly moms’ night out. Contact westervillemomsgroup@yahoo.com for more information.

Activities

RECREATION SERVICES

Here is a snapshot of a few of our upcoming events and programs. Fun family ideas for winter can be found at www.DublinOhioUSA.gov/recreation.

Book, Movie & Music Swap Saturday, Feb. 11, 9:30 a.m.

Recycle your books, DVDs, and music CDs. Drop them off at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11 at the Dublin Community Recreation Center and receive a ticket redeemable for the same number of items, beginning at 10 a.m. Books must be in good, readable condition with the cover intact and DVDs/CDs must be fully operable and in their original case. www.DublinOhioUSA.gov/recreation/ preschool

Abbey Theater Presents Hansel & Gretel Saturday, Feb. 11, 11 a.m.

Frisch Marionettes returns to the Abbey Theater with another magical musical. They’ve been seen in People magazime, SHOWTIME’s Twisted Puppet Theater, and most recently, in the major motion picture Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium.

Recommended for ages 4 and up Tickets: $7 adults, $5 children and seniors

The Magic of Bill Blagg

Vive Les Differences!

Saturday, Feb. 18, 11 a.m.

Bill combines his original illusions with audience participation, comedy and his trademark off-thecuff personality to create a show unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

Recommended for ages 5 and up Tickets: $10 adults, $7 children and seniors

The ONLY French Immersion School in Ohio!

Columbus City’s K-8 French Immersion Program (tuition free) Evening tour February 15th 13th from 6:30-7:30pm • Learn the Columbus City Schools curriculum in French & English!

• Before and After School Latchkey Program • Local and extended field trips (Ohio, Montreal and Quebec City.)

• Gifted and Talented Programs

Do you want your child to be bilingual by age 10?

Ecole Kenwood is the school for your child to become fluent in two of the most widely spoken languages in the world - English & French.

Ecole Kenwood is part of Columbus City Schools Learn. Dream. Succeed

FishFace Saturday, Feb. 25, 11 a.m.

Emily Arrow can do plenty of things well when she has Uni - her toy unicorn - to bring her good luck.

But when Dawn Bosco appears, everything changes.

The new girl seems to be good at everything. Worst of all, Emily discovers that Dawn has stolen her unicorn! Based on the Kids of the Polk Street School series.

Recommended for ages 5-9 Tickets: $7 adults, $5 children and seniors For tickets or more information, call the Dublin Community Recreation Center at 614.410.4550 or visit www.DublinOhioUSA.gov/recreation.

ECOLE KENWOOD 3770 Shattuck Ave. Columbus, OH 43220 http://facebook.com/DublinOhio

Tours & Information: (614) 365-5502 Tours every Wednesday, 10 a.m. or by appointment

http://twitter.com/DublinOhio

www.DublinOhioUSA.gov

DublinOhioUSA.gov/enews

Visit us on the Web at www.columbus.k12.oh.us/kenwood/index_html.htm columbusparent.com | February 2012 |

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City Lanes, 3940 Broadway, Grove City.

614-875-4444. grovecitylanes.com

feb 2012 SATURDAY 25 Columbus Winter Farmers Market, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Clintonville Womans Club, 3951 N. High St., Clintonville. 614268-5525. columbuswinterfarmersmarket.com/blog/ Creative Minds Junior Studio, An open art studio for students 7-12 years old, a variety of art media will be available for students to use. Monthly themes will be introduced but this is a student led activity. 12 noon-2 p.m. $36/4 sessions to be used in 3 months and/or with siblings/friends. Gallery 202, Partners in Art, Inc., 38 N. State St, Westerville. 614-890-8202. gallery202online.com/linkpages/creativemindsjunior.html FREE! Family Movie Night, Bring the family to our KidSpace free movie night this winter! Popcorn will be provided.

7-9 p.m. Crooked Alley KidSpace, 630 Wirt Rd., Groveport. 614-836-3333. groveport.org FREE! Leap Day Fun, Leap Day comes only once every four years. Join us for a celebration of this special day as we ready Froggy Gets Dressed and extend the book through silly games. We’ll end the morning with a craft that highlights the number 4. Ages 3 and up. 11 a.m.

Miller Park Branch Library, 1901 Arlington Ave, Upper Arlington. 614-4885710.

Monique - A Mystery, Murder mysteries are often filled with clues about the ending, but this one is different. A combination of suspense, deception, and obsession leaves one without a clue how the last page will turn. 8-10:30 p.m. Adults $13, Seniors $11, Students $11, Kids $8. Licking County Players, 131 W Main St., Newark. 740-349-2287. lickingcountyplayers.org Saturday Morning Youth Bowling League, Mixed boys and girls youth league. 10 a.m.- 12 noon. $20 per person per week for free ball at end of session. $10 per week without ball. Grove

Saturday Studio, Saturday Studio offers students a variety of topics and media to work with. This trimester we will work on illustrations, drawing, watercolor, printmaking, carving, and bookmaking. Check the website for specific topics and descriptions. For grades K-8. 10 a.m.- 12 noon. $8 members, $10 non-members per class. Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org FREE! Storytubes, Do you like to talk about books? Stop by to make a short two-minute video using our cameras, computers, puppets and props. Then, enter your video in the national Storytubes contest at storytubes.info to win cool prizes. All ages. 2-4 p.m. Westerville Library, 126 S State St, Westerville.

614-882-7277 x5006. westervillelibrary.org Super Saturdays: Ohio Craft Museum’s Family Workshop, Make your own journal with the Ohio Craft Museum! Parents and children work handin-hand to create a blank book using paper, ink and traditional book-making techniques. Use it as a journal, sketchbook, or a special place to write your own stories! Space is limited. Sign up in Youth Services beginning Saturday, Feb. 11. For ages 6 and up. 10 a.m.- 12 noon Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-4813778.

FREE! Tail Waggin’ Tutors, New reader? Just need practice? Kids ages 6 and up can sign up for ten minutes of readaloud time with Burgh, a gentle certified therapy dog. Registration required. noon-1 p.m. Westerville Library, 126 S State St, Westerville. 614-882-7277 x5006. westervillelibrary.org

SUNDAY 26 Sunday Family Bowling League, 2 p.m. $5 per person per week. Grove City Lanes, 3940 Broadway, Grove City.

614-875-4444. grovecitylanes.com

MONDAY 27 FREE! Science Attack Junior, Explore the world of science with stories and

hands-on activities specially designed for kids ages 5-7. Registration required.

4-4:45 p.m. Westerville Library, 126 S State St, Westerville. 614-882-7277 x5006. westervillelibrary.org

TUESDAY 28 FREE! Glider Fly-Off!, Join in the folding fun as we learn to make paper gliders and then test our creations. How far can you make your glider fly? Ages 811. 4-5 p.m. Westerville Library, 126 S State St, Westerville. 614-882-7277 x5006. westervillelibrary.org FREE! Survive the Worst Case Scenario, Alien invasions? Zombie apocalypse? Vampire bite? Would you survive? Teams of teens will compete with trivia and physical competitions to see if they have what it takes to survive anything that comes their way. Registration is required and begins February 13. Grades 6-9. 7 p.m. Upper Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington. 614-486-9621.

FREE! Tales for Toddlers, Ages 18-36 months. No registration required.

10:15-11:30 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

Teen Studio, Study the different styles of art in the galleries and then use our studio time to create your own expressions in art. We will be using paints, clay, printmaking and drawing. For grades 8-12. 5-7 p.m. $62 members, $72 non-members. Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org

WEDNESDAY 29 FREE! Baby Games, Ages 0-18 months. No registration required.

10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

FREE! Family Story Time, Ages 2-5 years. No registration required. 7-7:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-4862951.

Metal Clay and Jewelry Making, Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster. 740-681-1423. decartsohio.org

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.

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| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

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| February 2012 | columbusparent.com

POLARIS: 8701 LYRA DR. | 614.896.2700 TUTTLE CROSSING: 5770 BRITTON PKWY. | 614.339.8700