Columbus Parent - November 2012 by Dispatch Magazines/The Columbus Dispatch

GR POTLI OV GHT EP ON OR T

NOVEMBER 2012

Gift Ideas for Kids, Moms, Dads and More!

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Plus! Family Fun in Chicago

*Competitive Table Setting *LEGO Parties

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

Special Holiday Programming Decembrrrfest! - Did you know that penguins and polar bears do

not live in the same place? Or that some animals actually change color for the colder months? This winter learn about animals that live in frosty places and debunk some of the common myths surrounding cold-weather animals. These five-hour classes are offered December 3 – 8. Arctic and Antarctica – 3 – 5 year olds Fact or Fiction – 6 – 12 year olds (Saturday only)

School’s Out Camps - Hey kids!

Come explore the Zoo, uncover some of the animal kingdom’s most exciting mysteries and meet our animal visitors up close. School’s Out Camps are offered for students in grades 1 through 4 during holiday breaks and teacher professional days. We can’t think of a better way for you to spend your day off!

For more information or registration, call (614) 645-3488 or visit us on the web at www.columbuszoo.org and click on “Learn at the Zoo” then “Education Program Information.” 2

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

OPEN ENROLLMENT STARTS NOW!

You Have a Choice! Serving Grades K-8 State Approved Curriculum

Challenging Curriculum and Daily Sports Instruction!

No Tuition! All Students Wear Uniforms Strong Academics/State Approved Curriculum Small Class sizes – No more than 18 students per class All Day Kindergarten

Extended School Day from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Daily Fitness Regimen in Martial Arts, Soccer and Tennis Participation in all State Mandated Academic Testing Programs

Choose from 1 of 5 conveniently located campuses!

1258 Demorest Rd. • Columbus OH 43204 E-mail: jhursey@EdVantages.com Phone: 614-318-0606 K-8

1875 Morse Rd. • Columbus OH 43229 E-mail: agraver@EdVantages.com Phone: 614-318-0600 K-8

3474 Livingston Ave. • Columbus OH 43227 E-mail: ctremblay@EdVantages.com Phone: 614-324-4585 K-8

Information Meetings will be held at each school for interested parents. Please check the websites for dates and times.

274 E. 1st Avenue, Suite 200 • Columbus, Ohio 43201 E-mail: jpammer@performanceacademies.com Phone: 614-318-0720

K-7

2220 South Hamilton Rd. • Columbus OH 43232 E-mail: rmammoser@performanceacademies.com Phone: 614-314-6301

K-8

www.edvantages.com www.performanceacademies.com columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

getting started: table of contents ColumbusParent.com

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

Katie Wolfe Lloyd kwolfe@columbusparent.com Director of Dispatch magazines

Brian Lindamood

blindamood@columbusparent.com Editor

Jane Hawes jane.hawes@columbusparent.com Dispatch magazines Advertising Manager

Amy Bishop

abishop@columbusparent.com Advertising Account Executive

Georgette Massa

gmassa@columbusparent.com Advertising Account Executive

Bryan McMahan

bmcmahan@columbusparent.com DIGITAL ADVERTISING SPECIALIST

Vanessa Micic

vmicic@columbusparent.com creative director

Will Shilling

Photo by Tim Johnson

wshilling@columbusparent.com Photo Editor

News to use 8 NEWS ON THE GO 10 BEST BETS 11 HOUSEBROKEN: Dispatch columnist Joe Blundo

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 13

OUR ANNUAL HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: Gifts for kids, moms,

THE GO-TO GUIDE: November holiday events

32 33

PEDIATRIC HEALTHSOURCE: From Nationwide Children’s Hospital FAMILY FINANCE: From Denise Trowbridge

dads, grandparents and more!

Tim Johnson tjohnson@columbusparent.com

Family fun 34 36

NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT: Groveport SHOP SPOTLIGHT: Angela Martin of Crooked

Alley Kidspace 37 HANDS ON: Making a paper placemat for Thanksgiving with Clintonville’s Wholly Craft 38 PARTIES: A LEGO party 41 EATING OUT WITH KIDS: East Columbus’ TAT Ristorante di Famiglia 42 OVERNIGHT TRIPPIN’: Holiday shopping in Chicago

ON THE COVER: Baby snowman Sebastian, age 7 months, has his gift ready for the holidays! Check out ColumbusParent.com for a step-by-step tutorial (with photos) from local crafter AmyD, who created Sebastian’s snowman suit. PHOTO BY Tim johnson

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

Graphic Designer

Alyse Kordenbrock

CALEN DAR:

201

THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH

akordenbrock@columbusparent.com Graphic Designer

Lauren Kuntz

lkuntz@columbusparent.com editorial assistant

Heather Weekley hweekley@columbusparent.com Contributors Debbie Angelos, Joe Blundo, Melissa Boyd, Olivera Bratich, Mimi Brodksy Chenfeld, Melissa Kossler Dutton, Kristy Eckert, Colin Hawes, Kristen Maetzold, Joe Maiorana, Jill Moorhead, Joel Oliphint, Denise Trowbridge Distribution

John Henry

If you would like to receive 614-410-1797 Columbus Parent at your business, jhenry@dispatch.com or to report delivery concerns: 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

“THE ONE HOLIDAY GIFT THAT LASTS A LIFETIME!”

Christmas gifts seldom last past the first of the year. This year, give your child the gift that will last forever, the gift of confidence, self esteem, and achievement that’s part of being a Karate Kid. Remember, all programs include a free karate uniform to wrap for under the tree.

Your loved ones will learn to: • Have incredible RESPECT for others • Set (and Achieve) huge GOALS • Have a winning ATTITUDE

R $49 4 WEEKS sF&O FREE Uniform

Martial Arts Classe

Must present this coupon 1-31-13 New Students Only - Expires

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

getting started: letter from the editor

Visit Santa’s House on the Lower Level outside of Amy’s Hallmark Monday - Saturday, 10 am to 9 pm Sunday – Noon to 6 pm Check our Facebook page or www.shoptuttlecrossing.com for details on Santa’s Arrival event and other holiday activities!

(614) 602-8100 (614) 790-9970

I-270 and Tuttle Crossing Boulevard, Dublin (614) 717-9604

Dear Columbus Parents, We always seem to have good stories to go with the cover of every issue. This one is no exception. It was truly a group effort. My colleague Brian (with a little help from his wife Ellison) contributed Sebastian, our model. “He’s at his smiley stage,” is how Brian put it, which, as we’ve learned, is critical when photographing very small children. In other words, it’s now or never (or wait until they’re old enough to negotiate with). As with Holiday Gift Guides past, we wanted to create an image with a child giving a gift. A couple of creative conversations later, we had a concept: Baby Snowman offering a ribbonwrapped snowball for his present. Then we needed a costume. We perused the internet but, frankly, I prefer to go DIY whenever possible. And when you have a crafting community like we

have here in Central Ohio, all it usually takes is an email to somebody and voila! This time, I e-knocked on AmyD’s inbox to see if she was up for the challenge. And, boy, was she ever! We nattered back and forth about ideas, and then she set to it. When I hit a roadblock, trying to find one of those knitted pullover hats to mount a snowman top hat on (seriously, I looked everywhere. Have these things been banned along with drop-side cribs?), I sent up the SOS flare to Amy (whose full name, by the way, is Amy Dalrymple Murphy; visit her website at madebyamyd.com, or go buy her fabulous wares at Wholly Craft or Hills Market or any number of other local shops). She responded with an ingenious hoodie hat crafted from the sleeve and collar of a men’s white t-shirt! But she went way above and beyond the call of duty by also crafting a step-by-

Connect with Us

step (with photos) tutorial for making the costume. It’s on our website, ColumbusParent. com: Read and be inspired to make your own! Ah, but then into the studio with Sebastian, Ellison and our photographer Tim Johnson. With many babies, you’re lucky if you get three good shots in the two minutes they give you. Sebastian gave us more like two dozen in 10 minutes before he decided he had had enough of the popping lights and strange lady handing him that white ball she wouldn’t let him eat. It’s such a blessing to be surrounded by so many fun, creative and generous people. They truly make life worth living! And I hope this month’s issue inspires you to enjoy the life you have with your family as we head into the holiday season.

ColumbusParent.com | Facebook: Columbus Parent Magazine Twitter @ColumbusParent and @jane_hawes Email: contact@columbusparent.com or jane.hawes@columbusparent.com

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

More than 2,000 ready-to-eat Kroger Pumpkin Pies will be awarded!

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EASTER SEALS & THE EVENT T-SHIRT DESIGN: Every year, millions of their peers. When kids get the right treatment and therapy they need achieve their dreams. Easter Seals helps families recognize the early warning signs, counsel parents on next steps, and works as an advo Itâ€™s easy to make sure the children in your life reach their developmental milestones, simply go to MakeTheFirstFiveCount.org and take Seals provides a variety of programs and services for adults with Â Â? Â? Â? Â? Â Â Â€ Â‚ Âƒ Â Â€ Âƒ Â„ social services delivered through an individualized plan of care in

Free Tot Trot Kids Run, see entry for details! 2011 Columbus Turkey Trot - Tot Trot!

Thursday, November 22nd, 2012

www.columbusturkeytrot.com columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

news to use: News on the go

Around Town Where the happening kids just happened to be Walk Now for Autism Speaks, Huntington Park October 14, 2012

Nationwide Childrenâ€™s Hospital Columbus Marathon Oct. 21, 2012

photos by Dan trittschuh

Taylor, Shelby and Hunter Rockwell Donavan and Lincoln Otcasek

Detric Yoder and Tug Robison Zoey and Jayde Whiting

Matthew Meade and Cody Ballard

Ryan Moore, Micah Leeth, Xander Leeth and Brynan Moore

Beau and Haleigh Hefner

Colin Castro, Lou Seal, Estella Miller

Henry Owens, Elliott Owens, Jake Sites, Will Urbancic, Evie Owens, Alex Urbancic, Katie Urbancic, Josh Sites

Cal and Alex Ramirez

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

Mary Kate Lyons and Jessica Griffin

Matthew, Nathaniel and Jessica Griffin

WHAT’S THE

BUZZ?

Parenting is packed with buzz words that come and go. Let’s decipher some of them and figure out if they’ve got value for you! BUZZ TERM: Free-Range Parenting WHAT IT MEANS: Once upon a time kids could yell, “I’m going outside to play” and, as long as they were home for dinner, everything was fine. These days — not so much. “Free-range parents” are those who have embraced a trend that aims to counteract the negative impacts of overprotective, anxious parenting. Free-range kids enjoy lots of unstructured, unsupervised playtime. Free-range parents believe they are helping their children develop leadership, coping, social and problem-solving skills because of these parent-free experiences. Though the extremes have gotten publicity (a 9-year-old riding the New York City subway alone), the idea that important things happen when children are given “free range” is gaining traction with many parents. WHERE IT COMES FROM: The 2009 book “Free-Range Kids” by New York City-based mom Lenore Skenazy; she also has a website with more information, freerangekids.com —Melissa Boyd

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Give them a gift that stands out this season

THE JOYFUL JOURNEY Columbus arts educator, author and allaround inspiration Mimi Brodsky Chenfeld shares more of her wisdom about raising happy, healthy, creative children: I am a very lucky person! This is my 56th year in education and I spend — and have spent — almost all my waking time with children of all ages, all grades, subjects; university students; families and caregivers celebrating life — affirming successful, accessible ways to share with children the excitement of learning! In my annual summer courses at Otterbein University, usually my first assignment is to go to a festival, fair or community celebration and OBSERVE the children. We share observations and they are all universally similar. Young children line up to get face paint, make hats and bead jewelry, play instruments, dance with musicians, watch balloon artists, try jump roping, play funny games, wave flags at parades…etc. At the recent fabulous outdoor concert presented by BalletMet, I watched the young children dancing on the grass WITH the dancers onstage. The children watched and moved — leg extensions, leaps, mock lifts and turns. Our children learn from DOING! Now, in this era of curriculum goals, benchmarks, guidelines, packed with work sheets and formalized lessons and too much seat work, it is more important than EVER to remember that learning and creativity mark the uniqueness of human beings. Young children listen, look, touch, try, think, re-

member — every minute they are learning language. Every moment an adult says, “First we will have our snack and then we will go for a walk,” a child comprehends a mathematical concept. Every exchange an adult has with another adult or child demonstrates (or not) consideration, respect, interest or apathy. Our children are watching and listening and learning. I just returned from a wonderful conference in Wisconsin with in-service teachers and university education majors. It was called, “The Joyful Journey – Teaching in the Key of Life!” It was a great reminder that our children are embarking on a lifetime journey. If we define the journey of education as one of joy and excitement, we will honor the natural, playful, hands-on, stress-less ways that children of all ages best learn. If education is seen as a business, with incomes and outcomes, testing statistics, rewards and punishments, success and failure, the journey will NOT be joyful! Each of our children is unique with a combination of strengths and intelligences and their own timing. They do not fit into one standardized package. All of our children deserve a joyful journey to become lifelong learners who share their gifts, skills and qualities of character with a society that sorely needs the positive contribution of every citizen. That is my prayer for today and all days.

Clothes Mentor Gift Cards make the perfect gift!

Scan code with your smartphone to be directed to our facebo ok page

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—Mimi Brodsky Chenfeld

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

news to use: best bets

Nov ember 2012

Holiday Pops

From festivals to crafting to tumbling routines that will make your head spin, we’ve rounded up some can’t-miss family-fun events during November.

Columbus International Festival

Columbus is bursting with people from all over the world, and this annual festival has been celebrating the cultures for more than half a century. Head to the International Festival on Saturday, Nov. 3 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. or Sunday, Nov. 4 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. It’s held at Veterans Memorial, and there will be food, entertainment, and free children’s activities and crafts. Tickets cost $7 for adults, $5 for students with an ID, $2 for children 5-12 and free for those under 5. Veterans Memorial, 300 W. Broad St. (Downtown), Columbus 43215, 614-735-2848, cifohio.org

ZOOM Family Film Festival

Each year, the Wexner Center for the Arts presents a film festival with flicks for the whole family. The 2012 event runs Nov. 29-Dec. 2, and it’s four days of action-packed fun. Along with the movies, other highlights include a Cereal and Pajama Party (9 a.m., Dec. 1), and an ice cream social featuring Jeni’s (2:30 p.m., Dec. 1). Tickets are $4 per film, or $20 for a set of six tickets (Wexner Center members pay $3 per film or $15 for a set of six). Visit the Wexner Center’s site for a full schedule of the movies and their show times. Wexner Center for the Arts, 1871 N. High St. (Campus), Columbus 43201, 614-292-3535, wexarts.org

Craftin’ Outlaws Craft enthusiasts, try to contain your excitement: Craftin’ Outlaws is back again for the eighth year in a row. If you’ve never been, it’s a craft fair featuring more than 50 different vendors from throughout the Midwest. You’ll find a cornucopia of items (don’t forget to stock up on gifts!) including jewelry, clothing and home décor. The one-day only event takes place on Saturday, Nov. 17 at the Gateway Film Center. It runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., but those willing to pay $5 can gain early bird access beginning at 10 a.m. After 11 a.m., admission is free. Gateway Film Center, 1550 N. High St. (Campus), Columbus 43201, craftinoutlaws.com

Enjoy the sounds of the season at Holiday Pops, presented by the Columbus Symphony. The orchestra combines with the chorus and the children’s choir for the annual show, which runs at the Ohio Theatre Nov. 30-Dec.2. The performance includes classic favorites like “Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Sleigh Ride” and “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” Along with the show, there’s also a special visit from Santa! Visit the website for specific show times. Tickets are $25-$65. Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St. (Downtown), Columbus 43215, 614-228-8600, columbussymphony.com

LEGO Bricks & Building Toys

It’s two days of Lego building fun! In honor of the LEGO Castle Adventure exhibit (which runs through Jan. 6), COSI is letting youngsters make their own creations. On Saturday, Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 18 from 12 noon to 6 p.m., kids can play with Legos at the science center. And if their minds are inclined to figure out how things work, members of LEGO robotics teams will also be on site. Admission to COSI starts at $11.95 for kids and $16.95 for adults. COSI Columbus, 333 W. Broad St. (Downtown), Columbus 43215, 614-228-2674, cosi.org

JOIN OUR NETWORK OF STRENGTH.

For the past 26 years, Starr Columbus has been providing exceptional foster care services to Columbus and the surrounding areas. We're proud to stand behind our foster care partners, giving the tools and support needed to help foster parents be the best they can be. As a member of the Starr Columbus Foster Care Family, you'll receive support, assistance and a competitive per diem to ensure your foster child's needs are met. We offer in-home counseling from trauma-certified, master's-level therapists 24/7. Additional services include respite care, crisis intervention and family stabilization to help your foster child receive the therapeutic, educational and medical attention they need. If you are ready to welcome a child in need into your family, we invite you to join ours. To join the Starr Columbus Foster Care Family, call 614.491.5784 or visit www.starrfostercare.org

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

FIND OUT MORE

news to use: HOusebroken

Holiday Hoopla

By Joe Blundo

Less sunlight makes for wackier holiday behavior. That’s my theory, anyway. Ohioans, who favor manicured lawns and immaculate flowerbeds the rest of the year, react to the diminishing daylight of October by turning their yards into horror movie sets. Skeletons, gravestones, witches, goblins — it’s as if Alfred Hitchcock started a landscaping service. But at that point the eccentricity has just begun. By late November, Ohioans are going to work in the dark and coming home in the dark, which drives them half-mad. (The other half was caused by incessant political advertising in the run-up to Election Day.) An unstable frame of mind goes a long way toward explaining the Thanksgiving tradition of roasting an absurdly large bird that people aren’t even sure they like. It appears to be some kind of strange self-punishment ritual. (The media overflows with stories on how to cope with leftover turkey in the days leading up to Thanksgiving. Do you think those stories would be necessary if the food of choice were lobster or chocolate?) Shortly thereafter, the Christmas season gets going in

Ask for your favorite stylist!

earnest, and people begin dragging trees into the house. These are the same people who normally react to vegetative encroachment with mechanized warfare: Weedwhackers, mulching mowers, chemical sprayers capable of blasting stray dandelions from 50 feet away. But now that’s all forgotten, and they’re erecting a Douglas fir in the living room. But of course it doesn’t stop there. Even in posh suburbs where code violations are normally met with stern disapproval, it suddenly becomes perfectly acceptable to festoon the house with garland, lights, messages and figurines. Such decorations would never pass muster in seasons of plentiful sunlight. Try putting a lighted mannequin of Santa Claus driving a sled across your roof in June and see what kind of reaction you get. January, of course, begins with heavy drinking, celebratory gunfire and kissing people you just met. So really, it’s like any Saturday night — except for the funny hats. But things get stranger as the winter wears on. Fresh out of legitimate holidays, we turn such dubious occasions as the Super Bowl, the Academy Awards and Val-

entine’s Day into excuses to continue the merriment. Still, it’s obvious that the days are beginning to lengthen because these observances, while calorie-laden and hard on the wallet, can’t quite match Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas for out-of-character behavior. No one invites relatives they normally avoid to spend Oscar weekend at the house, lapping up eggnog and feigning delight at regifted presents. Soon enough, spring arrives, the sun hangs around until a decent hour and atypical behavior fades. From then until the short days of November, all will be normal — or as close as it’s possible to get to it around here.

Joe Blundo’s column So to Speak appears in the Life section of The Columbus Dispatch. Visit his blog at Dispatch.com

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Hilliard

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columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

Family Film Festival THU–SUN, Kiki’s Delivery Service IMAGE COURTESY OF GKIDS

NOV 29–DEC 2

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Pom Poko/Speedy/Kid Flix Mix/Porco Rosso/ Lotte and the Moonstone Secret/ Kiki’s Delivery Service/Back to the Future/Light of the River Family Tours of Annie Leibovitz/Cereal and Pajama Party/ Ice Cream Social/Crafts and Activities

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| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

SUPER GIFT IDEAS FOR

PLUS! The Columbus Metropolitan Library has book and gift pairings for the whole family!

OPENE! HER columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

news to use: Holiday Gift guide

Kids’ Gifts $15 and Less Baby Beautification For the truly stylish baby, here’s a Baby Band ($10) for her little bean. It’s made by Beaniestalk of Columbus. Available at Wholly Craft, 3169 N. High St. (Clintonville), Columbus 43202, 614-447-3445, whollycraft.com

It’s Outta This World If your kid is hungry for science, he or she will be eager to sample Astronaut Ice Cream (3 packages for $10). The freeze-dried delight originally created for Apollo space missions is sure to tempt any palate. The ice cream is frozen to minus 40 degrees before being sealed in a special pouch. Available at COSI Columbus Science2GO!, 333 W. Broad St. (Downtown), Columbus 43215, 614-228-2674, cosi.org

DIY Jump Rope Kids will jump in with both feet when charged with assembling this colorful toy. Recipients must piece together bunches of colorful rubber bands in order to create this stretchy jump rope. The Rubber Band Jump Rope ($8.50) is as fun to make as it is to use. Available at Statehouse Museum Shop, Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capitol Square (Downtown), Columbus 43215, 614-728-9234, statehouseshop.com

Veggie Crayons & Chalk Feed your toddler’s love of drawing with Veggie Crayons and Veggie Sidewalk Chalk ($10.95-$11.95). While they’re not recommended for snacking, if some chalk dust or crayon crumbs make it into your toddler’s mouth, don’t sweat it — they’re made from all organic fruit and vegetable powders and are even gluten, wheat and dairy free. Available at Sprout Soup, 3286 N. High St. (Clintonville), Columbus 43202, 614-267-7768, sproutsoup.com

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

Culinary Adventure: Dirty Frank’s With Columbus’ own Frostop root beer, Tater Tot-chos (a plate of tater tots covered with coney sauce and cheese) and even just a plain old weiner, Dirty Frank’s has something for all eaters — picky and adventurous. Snag a gift card so kids can choose their own meal. Available at Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace, 248 S. Fourth St. (Downtown), Columbus 43215, 614-824-4673, dirtyfrankscolumbus.com

Doodle Roll Doodling is all about freedom of expression. Now kids have the freedom to express themselves whenever and wherever inspiration (or boredom) strikes with the Doodle Roll ($7.50 and up). Thirty feet of paper, a paper dispenser and 4 double-sided crayons are rolled into a compact kit complete with an EZ-tear edge. Doodle Rolls come in both 4-inch and 6-inch widths, and replacement rolls and crayons are also available. Available at doodleroll.com

Holiday Gifts that

Excite & Educate Great gifts for kids of all ages! ¥ Amazing Science Kits ¥ Creative Art Activities ¥ Cool Stocking Stuffers

apping! FREE Gift Wr

Gift Shop Open: Tuesday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

attheworks.org Stay Warm, Look Cool The weather outside is frightful, but your little snow bunny will be nice and warm with these super-soft acrylic knit scarves ($12) from Kidorable. Each cozy creation is sold individually or with matching gloves ($12) to keep the blustery wind at bay. Available at Lilylimes, 7850 Olentangy River Road, Columbus 43235, 614-448-1222, lilylimes.com

Designer Tape

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BIG FAT GREEK KUZINA Family owned and operated since 1970

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We are not just Gyros. Full Authentic Greek Restaurant Homemade Pastitsio, Baklava, Moussaka and more!

Teens and tweens who love to get creative will enjoy Elmer’s Designer Tape ($9.99). A three-pack comes in cool patterns and colors (think polka dots and stripes), and the tape is easy to use on scrapbook pages, photos, notebooks and school projects. Taping things up has never been so pretty! Available at Walmart and Michaels, go to walmart.com or michaels.com to find the location nearest you

2816 Fishinger Road • Columbus • 614-457-4753 • www.bestgreekusa.com columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

news to use: Holiday Gift guide

Kids’ Gifts

$16 to $25 Alphabet Abacus Learning your ABCs is as easy as 1-2-3 with this special abacus ($25) that helps with letter and word recognition along with counting skills. Chunky blocks spin easily on wooden rods, allowing children to see letters on one side and corresponding words on the other or written versus numeric numbers on the bottom blocks. The all-wood abacus is made by Hape. Available at Tickleberry Moon, 123 East Broadway, Granville 43023, 740-920-4314, tickleberrymoon.com

Doll Art The Art Dolls kit ($22.50) includes a unique assortment of craft supplies — handmade paper, beads, sequins and more — to create four dolls. Once assembled, the dolls can be played with or used as decorations. The box can be used as a frame to display the finished project. Available at Helen Winnemore Craft, 150 E. Kossuth St. (German Village), Columbus 43206, 614-444-5850, helenwinnemores.com

Live Theatre: BOATS Move over Sesame Street: Terrapin Puppet Theatre is coming to High Street. BOATS will dock in Columbus from May 3-5 in cooperation with CATCO and the Wexner Center for the Arts. Imaginations will set sail with this lively maritime story that comes together using actors, puppets, acrobatics and an underwater microphone. Tickets cost $16-$25. Available at catco.org/catco-is-kids

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

The Fun Rolls On Dicecapades Board Game ($20) will have your family rolling. Players must be prepared to perform physical challenges, draw and answer trivia questions while playing this action-packed game. Available at Cute as a Button, 38 W. Olentangy St., Powell 43065, 614-330-9408, cuteasabuttonstore.com

Mayor of Playtown Your child can be master of a metropolis with Playtown from The Museum of Modern Art and available at our Columbus Museum of Art. Designed by renowned Swedish artist Laura Ljungkvist, this colorful cityscape ($25) features 31 slotted play structures to mix and match together to create an urban work of art. Perfect for kindergarteners and up, Playtown provides a fun, creative activity as well as a backdrop for hours of imaginative play for your bitty builder. Available at Columbus Museum of Art, 480 E. Broad St. (Downtown), Columbus 43215, 614-221-6801, columbusmuseum.org

Puzzle Fun The Void Puzzle ($16), the latest brainteaser from the company that makes Rubik’s Cube, is sure to appeal to the problem solver on your gift list. The puzzle looks like a Rubik’s Cube with a hole in it — and it requires a whole different solution. Available at Larson’s Toys and Games, 1617 W. Lane Ave., Upper Arlington 43221, 614-486-7701, larsonstoys.com

Musical Touch Conducting music with Musical Touch by Small World Toys ($25) allows you to feed a young one’s love for music while sneaking in a science lesson at the same time. Touch one of the four sensors and your body becomes a sound conductor, then tap or touch another player and you’ve just completed the circuit turning your body into a music box! For two to four players. Two AAA batteries needed but not included. Available at Toyville, 679 High St., Worthington 43085, 614-824-8187, On Facebook: Toyville

www.mtmtavern.com

Sunday Brunch

A MATT’S TRADITION 10AM-2:30PM

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

— $14.95 adults —$6.95 kids 5-10 years old *Kids 4 and under FREE with each paying adult. (Additional 4 and under $4.95 each)

Carried Away Rev up a child’s imagination with this handmade car carrier ($25), which includes two mini-cars and a removable trailer. Each is individually made to order in your choice of wood. This heirloom classic is expertly crafted by The Sawdust Woodshop, a Westerville-based family business that is taking toys back to the basics. Made of 100 percent sustainable natural wood and finished with non-toxic Danish oil, these unique toys are built to be passed down, loved and treasured by even your little one’s little ones. Available at The Ohio Art Market, 30 N. State St., Westerville 43081, 614891-9123, ohio-art-market. blogspot.com; or online at thesawdustwoodshop.com

news to use: Holiday Gift guide

Kids’ Gifts $26

Rainbow Whirls Pegging Game Sometimes the simplest toys draw the most interest. Such is the case with Haba’s Rainbow Whirls Pegging Game ($35). Toddlers can work at matching brightly colored chunky rings to the matching pegs, or simply see how high they can stack the 32 pieces. The all-wooden game has received much press and awards for its ability to encourage free play with the toddler set.

to $50

Available at habausa.com

iMake Music Little Tikes puts kids’ music-making needs to good use with the iTikes Piano ($50). Featuring a sleek, light-up keyboard and Apple device plug-in, this hi-tech version of the standard ivories can be used for both classic and modern play using your iPhone, iPad or iTouch. App-based music games teach everything from notes to pitch. The recording, playback and multiple accompaniment features offer your child the chance to play, compose, learn and laugh. Available at Toys”R”Us, go to toysrus.com to find the location nearest you

Little Sproutz, Strong Kids Sometimes getting kids to eat their veggies takes nothing short of a superhero effort. Luckily for parents, it’s Super Sproutz to the rescue! With imaginative stories and a plush superhero friend ($35), kids can cheer on their favorite vitamin-packed victor by following the adventures of Colby Carrot, Brian Broccoli and Erika Eggplant and learn about gaining their own super vision, super strength and super intelligence.

Bounce About Wintertime energy will be put to good use with this versatile gift that will have kids jumping for joy. Sky Zone’s Indoor Trampoline Park has open jump times as well as agespecific programs such as Toddler Time (with access to the Foam Pit) and Sky Mania (for pre-teens). A membership ($29.95) covers two 1-hour open jump sessions. Available at Skyzone Sports, 459 Orange Point Drive, Suite E, Lewis Center 43035, 740-548-4004, columbus.skyzonesports.com

Available online at uncommongoods.com

Bragging Rights Budding artists will love this handmade hanger for displaying art work. Each custom Brag Board ($26.50) has two sturdy clips for attaching and displaying kid’s artwork. Kids will be proud to hang their work from these elegant boards. Available at Helen Winnemore Craft, 150 East Kossuth St. (German Village), Columbus 43206, 614-444-5850, helenwinnemores.com

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

Ribbon denim Jacket Develop Baby Girl’s love for the perfect denim jacket before she’s even out of diapers. These adorable heavy-weight denim jackets ($40 and $45) are adorned with bright ribbons that have been hand-sewn along the seams and trim, and are even looped and tacked along the back. Available in 3-month to 4T sizes. Sizes and quantities are limited, so act early or call ahead! Available at Cute as a Button, 38 W. Olentangy St., Powell 43065, 614-330-9408, cuteasabuttonstore.com

NEW FULL TIME INFANT ROOM *NEW EXPANSION FOR INFANT CARE *OPENING IN EARLY OCTOBER *CALL NOW TO RESERVE CARE FOR YOUR INFANT!

“Out of this World” Family fun

Baby Topper

Coolest birthday parties in town!

Hedy Regel, the artist behind Hedy Regel Designs, creates all kinds of fabric and paper art for her clients, but her baby bonnets and bucket hats ($28) might be some of our favorites. They’re soft, washable and stylish!

Holiday parties • Corporate team-building Huge arcade Giant inflatables with jousting, boxing and more Multi-level laser tag right here in Columbus 7,000 square feet of laser tag fun

Available at SoBo Style, 3282 N. High St. (Clintonville), Columbus 43202, 614-447-8880, sobostyle.com

All Tied Up Have a boy who thinks dressing up is wearing a shirt right side out? Lottie Da can help cut down your dress-up drama with this adorable applique tie sweatshirt ($36). Made in a charming bicycle or festive holiday plaid design, these comfy shirts are sure to make your mini-man into a dapper dude without all the fuss. Available at Lottie Da, 4705 N. High St. (Clintonville), Columbus 43214, 614-754-1261, lottiedababy.com

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740-548-7788 www.LazerKraze.com

459 Orange Point Dr. Lewis Center, OH Just off US-23 10 minutes from Polaris Mall.

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

news to use: Holiday Gift guide

Kids’ Gifts $51 and up

A Backpack Built for Two Teach your children about the joy of giving with a standout backpack ($59) from Schoolbags for Kids. With the purchase of any brightly hued backpack, the company sends another backpack filled with school supplies to children in need around the world. Available online at schoolbagsforkids.com

Magnetic Memories

Segway Tour Ride in style, and learn a little bit about Columbus too! SegAway Tours of Columbus offers a two-hour, guide-led tour of our fair city on a Segway. It’s a great family activity if you’ve got teens (they must be at least 14 years of age and weigh more than 100 pounds to ride), and you’ll see sites like Huntington Park, North Market and the Ohio Statehouse. Tours are $55 per person plus tax. Available at SegAway Tours of Columbus, 400 N. High St. (Downtown), Columbus 43215, 614-222-3005, segawaytoursofcolumbus.com

A Big Splash Kids will love to get out of the house and into the water with winter swim lessons at Worthington Pools. Spring lessons begin on March 10, and 8 half-hour lessons cost $55. A bonus: All students receive free admission to multiple Friday Family Fun Nights and open swims. Available at Worthington Pools, 400 W. Dublin-Granville Road, Worthington 43085, 614-885-1619, worthingtonpools.com

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

How better to display your pint-sized Picasso’s works of art than as a work of art? These vintage-chic magnetic, dry-erase memo boards ($65) from Worthington artist Michelle Geissbuhler of Goathill Productions use old-fashioned board games as the backdrop for your little one’s creations. From Scrabble and Sorry to Parcheesi, Chinese Checkers and more, each board is filled with pieces of a childhood favorites. Available at Julia’s Story, 642 N. High St. Ste. B (Short North), Columbus 43215, 614-5845271, On Facebook: Julia’s Story

Clean Up Made Cool Consider giving kids a place to store all their holiday loot. Youngster will be excited to put their toys away when they can stow them in this pirate-inspired toy chest ($135) made by New England-based Etsy retailer Joe Borelli (he only charges $20 for shipping). The rustic-looking chests can be made to your specifications. Available online at etsy.com/ people/JoesWoodworking

Piano Lessons Done Right. The Conservatory of Piano, voted best music program in Columbus.

Furby Yes, it’s time to brush up on your Furbish because Furby is back and more brilliant than ever. This longtime favorite interactive toy ($54) now has a mind of its own. Tickle it, talk to it, feed it, and Furby responds. Play music, and it will dance along. Tilt it, turn it upside down, even pull its tail, and Furby will have something to say about it. Here’s the important part: Furby’s personality will be formed by how it’s treated and who your child’s Furby becomes may just surprise the whole family! Four AA batteries are needed and not included.

celebrating 41 years of excellence in piano instruction winter sampler january 28 - march 8 adult winter sampler january 28 - march 22

Available at Toys”R”Us, go to toysrus.com to find the location nearest you

excellence in piano instruction is our only businesssm

It’s Electric Snap Circuits Light ($79.95) teaches kids about electronics and circuitry in a fun and entertaining way. The kit can create numerous projects that will create light displays that sync with their iPod. Available at Learning Express Toys, 180 Market St., New Albany 43054, 614-9330333 and 7227 N. High St., Worthington 43085, 614-880-0333, columbus.learningexpresstoys.com

READ AND WIN

with Columbus Parent and Dispatch Reader Rewards Go to

Scramble Bug These bright bugs are bound to become your toddler’s favorite riding toy. Scramble Bugs ($70) are designed for indoor or outdoor use and are perfect for teaching little ones how to push themselves and steer. Quiet, smooth wheels turn 360-degrees yet won’t scratch your floors. There are four different bugs to choose from and each folds flat for easy storage. And the best part: No assembly required! Available at Learning Express Toys, 180 Market St., New Albany 43054, 614-933-0333 and 7227 N. High St., Worthington 43085, 614-880-0333, columbus.learningexpresstoys.com

dispatch.com/ ParentContest in November for your chance to win a $25 Kroger Card.

To sign up for the NEW & IMPROVED Dispatch Reader Rewards program, visit dispatch.com/rewards TODAY! columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

news to use: Holiday Gift Guide

Moms Gifts for

Healthy Hair

L’Occitane’s Citrus Verbena Daily Use Shampoo & Conditioner ($18 each) are Citrus-scented and packed with healthy-for-your-hair goodies. They feel fresh and work wonders on highlighted hair. Available at L’Occitane, 4093 The Strand East (Easton), Columbus 43219, 614-416-2082 and 1500 Polaris Pkwy (Polaris), Columbus 43240, 614-436-2888, loccitane.com

Going to Great Lengths The wand for Clinique’s High Lengths Mascara may look scary, but it makes lashes look scary good. Plus, it’s not just for special occasions: Applies easily, lasts all day. It’s a go-to for Mom’s daily wear. Available at Clinique counters, visit clinique.com to find the location nearest you

Penny Charm Bracelet Adorn Mom’s wrist with shiny coins that represent significant moments. Uncommon Goods’ Penny Charm Bracelet allows you add up to four pennies, each from years of your choosing. It’s a perfect way to commemorate the kids’ birth years or anniversaries. The sterling silver bracelet with one charm is $125, and you can add additional pennies for $55 each. Available at uncommongoods.com

Queen for a Day Mom can have the relaxing day she deserves when you give her this perfect pair. First, a pedicure from Elli Nail Spa (ranging from $34 to $50). Once all is dry, she’ll walk over — carefully; don’t want to smudge those nails — to House Wine for a tasting or three at the wine shop. Available at Elli Nail Spa, 648 High St., Worthington 43085, 614-888-6868, ellinailspa.com; and House Wine, 644 High St., Worthington 43085, 614-846-9463, housewine.biz

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

From Pre- to PostPregnancy with Style! We’re loving this muslin-ruffled canvas tote bag ($36), created by Clintonville designer Hedy Regel. Pre-pregnancy, it’s a fabulous tote. Post-pregnancy, it’s a stylish diaper bag (that is, if you feel like sharing it with the bambino!). Available at SoBo Style, 3282 N. High St. (Clintonville), Columbus 43202, 614-447-8880, sobostyle.com

Lush-usly Yours, Mom! Organic olive oil + mandarin juice + sea salt = shower bliss. Lush Cosmetics’ Olive Branch Shower Gel ($10+) is fresh and sudsy — the kind that actually makes your skin feel super clean as well as super soft. (Plus, if Dad or kids use it, it’s cool — the scent is unisex and it’s even good for sensitive skin.) Available at Lush, 3951 Easton Square Place East (Easton), Columbus 43219, 614-337-1952, lushusa.com

Sealed with a Smooch You have lots of colors to choose from with MAC’s Cremesheen Lipstick ($15), and it comes with a bonus, too: It will nourish Mom’s lips while making her look as fab as she is. (Capital Style editor Kristy Eckert’s shade of choice? Party Line.) Available at MAC counters, visit maccosmetics.com to find the location nearest you

Nailing the Perfect Gift Goes on smooth, stays on long. Put simply, OPI Nail Polish ($8.50) is the best there is. (P .S. — Keep Mom on trend with two coordinating color choices so she can paint one nail on each hand or foot a different shade.) Available at Charles Penzone Grand Salons, visit charlespenzone.com to find the location nearest you columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

N E W

E X H I B I T

A T

C O S I

NOW THROUGH JANUARY 6, 2013

news to use: Holiday Gift Guide

The Friendly Drone If Dad is a gadget freak, you can wow him with the Parrot AR.Drone 2.0 App-Controlled Quadricopter ($299.99). He can control his very own drone with an iOS or Android device, on which he can see what the copter’s pilot would see. Plus, the device is equipped with a camera that enables Dad to record HD video and take stills! Available at Brookstone, go to brookstone.com to find the location nearest you

Dads Gifts for

In LEGO® Castle Adventure, build brick castles, learn about real-world castles and their building secrets, and plan your ideal castle’s defenses. Free with COSI admission or COSI membership. Produced by The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis in cooperation with LEGO Systems, Inc. LEGO and the LEGO logo are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2012 The LEGO Group. All rights reserved.

Contributing Sponsor:

Media Partner:

SPECIAL LEGO® BRICKS EVENT AT COSI LEGO Bricks & Building Toys Supported By:

Saturday, November 17, 2012 Sunday, November 18, 2012 From LEGO bricks to Lincoln Logs, play with building toys of all shapes and sizes! Plus, meet LEGO® Mindstorms® robotics teams and see their competitive creations.

Discover Fall Family Fun COSI’s open Thanksgiving weekend, Nov. 23-25 Seasonal Live Shows • New Exhibits including: Gunther von Hagens’ BODY WORLDS & The Brain

cosi.org 614.228.2674 333 W. Broad St., Columbus, Ohio 43215 Stay connected:

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

Paying Homage Nobody in town does Buckeye style better than Homage. With throwback logos and a high level of craftsmanship and wearability to go along with its attention to history, you’re bound to find something for a Buckeyes-loving dad. We particularly like the $28 “Spielman football camp” tee. Available at Homage, 17 Brickel St. (Short North), Columbus 43215, 614-221-5693 and 4032 Easton Station Road (Easton), Columbus 43219, 614-532-5037, homage.com

Rockmill Road Trip Send Dad down to Lancaster for a tour of the highly acclaimed Rockmill Brewery. The brewery — located on a former horse farm in Lancaster — specializes in five organic Belgian-style ales. A flight (2-ounce pours of each beer) is free with the purchase of the brewery’s four-pack suitcase, a $58 value. Call ahead for payment. Rockmill is open Fridays through Sundays, 12 noon-8 p.m. Available at Rockmill Brewery, 5705 Lithopolis Road NW, Lancaster 43130, 740-654-0112, rockmillbrewery.com

MARBURN ACADEMY Cozy Up to a Koozie

NOW ACCEPTING NEW HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Though they’re often acquired as freebie corporate tchotchkes, these koozies from local purveyor Alison Rose will keep Dad’s drinks cool while showing off his Ohio pride. After all, the only thing worse than warm beer is no beer. One three-pack sells for $10. Available at Celebrate Local, 4030 The Strand East (Easton), Columbus 43219, 614-245-0241, celebratelocal.wordpress.com; Pursuit, 1572 N. High St. (Campus), Columbus 43201, 614-321-7848, pursuityourself.com; Wholly Craft, 3169 N. High St. (Clintonville), Columbus 43202, 614-447-3445, whollycraft.com; or online at alisonrose.com

Listen to This! Workout headphones either have terrible sound quality but stay in your ears, or they sound good but fall out on the treadmill. Bose solves this conundrum with the SIE2 sport headphones, which combine superb sound with sweat-resistant ear tips that stay put. Just released in September, the headphones come in orange or green for $149.95. The pricier $199.95 version adds an inline mic and is remote optimized for use with an iPhone or iPod. Available at Bose Showcase Store, 155 Easton Town Center (Easton), Columbus 43219, 614-475-8565, bose.com

Admission Information Session

Marburn Academy is a leader in college-preparatory education for ADHD and dyslexic students. • Only accredited Orton-Gillingham school in central Ohio • First college-preparatory High School for ADHD/dyslexic students in central Ohio. • 100% of graduates are accepted into college Don’t wait! Join us in November to learn more about Marburn’s student centered college-preparatory curriculum and one-of-a-kind Voyageurs program.

Monday, November 19 • 7:00 pm RSVP to Barbara Davidson at 614-433-0822 or bdavidson@marburnacademy.org

FREE EARLY READING SCREENINGS For children aged 5-7

Licky Fingers Certain foods never taste quite the same at home as they do at a restaurant. But supplying Dad with his favorite flavor of Buffalo Wild Wings sauce can turn ho-hum homemade wings into a finger-lickin’ snack. Single bottles are $4.29, or buy a threepack for $11.99. Go to buffalowildwings.com to find the location nearest you

Sticky Fingers Why give Dad a plain old leather wallet when you could score him something made from equally manly but far more interesting material — duct tape! This wallet ($22) from jDUCT is made entirely of duct tape. They come in a variety of colors, and front-cover images including a ninja, a hot dog and a moustache! Available at Wholly Craft, 3169 N. High St. (Clintonville), Columbus 43202, 614-447-3445, whollycraft.com; or jduct.com

November 16 • 8:30-12:00 pm January 25 • 8:30-12:00 pm

• Find out if your child is likely to experience difficulty learning to read, write or spell. • Appointments fill quickly and registration is required. • Call 614-433-0822 or bdavidson@marburnacademy.org

SAVE THE DATE January 27, 2013 • 1:00-4:00 pm Sunday Admission Open House

Reservations now being accepted • 614-433-0822 “The teachers are inspiring, the school first-rate.” Marburn parent 2012 • Hands-on experiential activities • iPads for Lower Division students • Laptops for Middle and High School students • Technology demonstrations including robotics • Performing and Studio Arts activities • Experience a Voyageurs (Outdoor Leadership) activity • Tour the school • Meet our teachers and students

For more details or to RSVP call Barbara Davidson • 614-433-0822

Marburn Academy...simply better www.marburnacademy.org

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

news to use: Holiday Gift Guide

Grandparents Gifts for

A Sweet Treat Who doesn’t love Jeni’s? The ice cream now known ‘round the nation is made right here in Columbus, and you can send Grandma and Grandpa some of the famous scoops right to their doorstep. Jeni’s Picks Collection ($90) includes nine pints of signature flavors like Salty Caramel, Dark Chocolate and Ugandan Vanilla Bean. Available at jenis.com

Pretty Pottery

Celebrate Local Even if they don’t live in Ohio, you can still give your grandparents a taste of Columbus. Celebrate Local, a store at Easton featuring goods, art and clothing from area vendors, offers a fun gift basket ($30) with a sampling of Ohio products. There’s a basket to fit everyone’s fancy, including Celebrate Sweet (jams and honey), Celebrate Chocolate (what could possibly be in this one?) and Celebrate Gluten-Free (to cater to those with food allergies). Baskets can be shipped directly to the recipients. Available at Celebrate Local, 4030 The Strand East (Easton), Columbus 43219, 614-245-0241, celebratelocal.wordpress.com

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

Sugar Loaf Pottery specializes in making mugs that are perfect for tea or coffee. Each mug ($13 for small, $15 for large) is handpainted and made to order by Granville potter Gayle Stewart, so you can customize each one for $1 more. Mugs aren’t the only thing you’ll find from Sugar Loaf, though — Stewart also creates bowls, candle holders, cake stands and more. Available at Wren House Gifts, 695 High St., Worthington 43085, 614-848-8442 or sugarloafpottery.com

Laughing Matters Treat the grandparents to two experiences in one with tickets ($30) to The Second City: Laughing Matters. Presented by CAPA, the touring comedy troupe (that’s been around for more than 50 years) will be gracing the stage of the newly renovated Lincoln Theatre in the King Lincoln District on Feb. 8 and 9. Available at capa.com

Letterpress Fun How about an interactive gift for the g’rents? Sign up both the grandkids and grandparents for one of Igloo Letterpress’ bookbinding or letterpress classes ($30$75). Together they’ll enjoy creating their own cards, posters or books to fill with drawings and memories. Along with the regularly scheduled classes, groups can sign up for specific times on a Saturday to get creative. Available at Igloo Letterpress, 39 W. New England Ave., Worthington 43085, 614-787-5528, iglooletterpress.com

A Sweet Scent If you’re looking for a new aroma to fill Grandma’s house, The Candle Lab has you covered. The 8-ounce soy candles ($15 each) come in scents like cherry blossom, lavender and vanilla bean. If you want to think outside the box, try unique options like bubblegum, sea breeze or first snow. The candles are available at the four Candle Lab locations: Grandview, Powell, Short North and Worthington. Available at The Candle Lab, go to thecandlelab.com to find the location nearest you

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

news to use: Holiday Gift Guide

Readers Gifts for

Any book can be a great gift, but some books are so well made and beautifully illustrated that they feel like the perfect gift. To take it a step further, pair the book with a thoughtfully chosen partner. Here are some recommendations to get you started.

The traditional tale of “The Twelve Dancing Princesses” ($16.95, Crocodile Books) is made gift-worthy in a new version illustrated by Ruth Sanderson. This would be a perfect bedtime read-aloud for an elementary school-aged child. Pair the book with Uncommon Goods’ Fairytale Fingerprint Art Set ($10, uncommongoods.com) to knock your gift out of the park.

Regardless of whether your gift recipient will actually be taking any weekend trips, the New York Times’ “36 Hours: 150 Weekends in the USA & Canada” ($39.99, Taschen) will be fun to get lost in. The recommended itineraries are well researched and actually doable; locations are indexed with categories including history, special interests, and specialty museums so readers can easily plan their excursions. Pair this awesome book with a bottle of wine for a sophisticated gift.

Every member of the family will be fighting to get their turn to look at “The Guinness Book of World Records 2013” ($28.95, Guinness World Records). Every single page is packed with vivid photos and astonishing facts: Did you know that the tallest dog stands 3 feet, 8 inches tall (page 145) or that the tallest man is 8 feet, 3 inches (page 79)? Page 97 says the largest bubblegum bubble had a diameter of 11 inches. Get someone started on breaking that record with a mini-bin of gumballs from Dylan’s candy bar ($15, dylanscandybar.com, also available in sugar-free).

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

For teens and adults, the music lover on your gift list will enjoy David Byrne’s newest book, “How Music Works” ($32, McSweeney’s). Byrne’s smart reference provides a historical overview while remaining timely and includes enough photographs that it’s elevated to the level of art. The cultural roots of music as well as the music business are explored, from the perspective of an experienced musician and increasingly prolific author. It’s best paired with a sweet pair of earbuds or an iTunes gift card.

—Melissa Boyd, Librarian at the Center for Discovery, Columbus Metropolitan Library Main Branch

Lemony Snicket, the author behind the popular “Series of Unfortunate Events,” has a new novel for the middle-school set called “Who Could That Be at This Hour?” ($15.99, Little, Brown, and Company). The ever amusing Snicket holds true to form with this engaging and witty, ageappropriately dark mystery. Pair this with the PlaSmart Perplexus Maze Game ($24.99, amazon.com/toys), which will continue the bafflement beyond the book’s last chapter.

Nick Hornby brings levity to his attempts at reading serious (and not-so-serious) literature in “More Baths Less Talking” ($14, Believer Books). Whether being interrupted by one of his sons during the last 13 pages of a Nicholson Baker novel or rejecting the task of reading Dickens on an e-reader, Hornby allows us to somehow feel we’ve benefited just by simply reading his accounts of reading, even when he’s failed. Pair this book with a manly bath product for Dad — Stinkybomb Soap’s hand-grenade soap ($14, available at Wholly Craft, 3169 N. High St., (Clintonville), Columbus 43202, 614-447-3445, whollycraft.com; or online at stinkybombsoap. com).

wexner center

FILM/VIDEO

November 1–December 1

Castles in the Sky Miyazaki, Takahata and the Masters of Studio Ghibli This monthlong series includes favorites and rarely screened works from Studio Ghibli, the groundbreaking animation studio known as the Disney of Japan. NEW 35mm PRINTS! COPRESENTED BY THE EAST ASIAN STUDIES CENTER AT THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY

Spirited Away Princess Mononoke My Neighbors the Yamadas Only Yesterday Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind Castle in the Sky Porco Rosso Ocean Waves Whisper of the Heart The Cat Returns My Neighbor Totoro Pom Poko Kiki’s Delivery Service

ON SALE NOW—TICKETS.WEXARTS.ORG | (614) 292-3535 WE XNER CENTER FOR THE ARTS | THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSIT Y 187 1 NORTH HIGH STREET | COLUMBUS , OHIO

SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTIONS FOR FILM/VIDEO

PROMOTIONAL S U P P O RT

PREFERRED AIRLINE

G E N E R A L S U P P O RT FOR THE WEXNER CENTER

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

news to use: the go-to guide

November Holiday Events By Heather Weekley

‘Tis the season to start your winter celebrations! We’ve compiled some family-friendly events that are sure to put you in the holiday spirit, beginning this month.

MERRY & BRIGHT Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus 43203, 614-715-8000, fpconservatory.org DATE: Nov. 17-Jan. 6, closed Thanksgiving and Christmas PRICE: regular admission rates ($11 adults to age 59, $9 ages 60+ and college students with ID, $6 ages 3-17, free for ages 0-2) TIME: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, and open until 8 p.m. on Wednesdays DISTANCE: 3 miles east from downtown Columbus

FANTASY OF LIGHTS

DESCRIPTION: Visit the Conservatory for lights, trains, gingerbread houses and more! Along with the decorations available for viewing daily, the Conservatory stays open late on Wednesday evenings for Merry & Bright Nights. And don’t forget to enter the gingerbread house competition! Entries for the different categories are due by Dec. 2, and the houses will be on display the remainder of December. Check the website for more information about special family programs throughout the season.

Alum Creek State Park, 2911 S. Old State Road, Delaware 43015 740-549-2267, alumcreek.com DATES: Nov.16-Jan. 1 PRICE: Starts at $10 per car; varies by date and vehicle size TIMES: 5:30-9:30 p.m., Sunday-Thursday; 5:30-10:30 p.m., Friday-Saturday DISTANCE: 20 miles north from downtown Columbus DESCRIPTION: For the 13th year in a row, Alum Creek is presenting its Fantasy of Lights. Just hop in your car and enjoy the drive-thru lights experience, which includes fun displays throughout the route in the woods. Once you’re done, there’s free hot chocolate and cookies at Santa’s House (located down the road at Cross Creek Camping Resort), and families can have photos taken with Santa, too. And you can check some holiday shopping off the list — Santa’s house also has a selection of gift items to purchase.

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

HOLIDAY LIGHTS! AT CREEKSIDE PARK

Creekside Park & Plaza, 123 Mill St., Gahanna 43230 614-418-9114, visitgahanna.com DATES: Nov. 10-Jan. 2 PRICE: free and open to the public TIME: Monday-Sunday, any time DISTANCE: 10 miles east from downtown Columbus DESCRIPTION: This season-long lights display begins with a holiday tree lighting at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 10, including a ceremony with the mayor. Then, on the day after Thanksgiving (Friday, Nov. 23), take part in a Healthy Holiday 5K and catch the Holiday Lights! parade at 6 p.m. that evening. Registration for the 5K is available at visitgahanna.gov.

Historic German Village 614-221-8888, germanvillage.com DATE: 7 p.m., Friday, Nov. 30 for the Tree Lighting; 6 p.m.-10 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 2 for the Village Lights event; enjoy the seasonal decorations throughout the month

HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING AND VILLAGE LIGHTS

PRICE: free DISTANCE: 1 mile south from downtown Columbus DESCRIPTION: Join residents of the village tucked next to downtown Columbus for the Tree Lighting on Nov. 30, where Santa will make an appearance and guests can enjoy treats, cider and hot chocolate. Then, the area will light up on Dec. 2 with the annual Village Lights. Stroll through the streets, grab a bite to eat and explore the shops.

OHIO STATEHOUSE TREE LIGHTING AND HOLIDAY FESTIVAL

The Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capitol Square (Downtown), Columbus 43215 888-OHIO-123, ohiostatehouse.org DATE: Dec. 3 PRICE: free TIME: 5:30-7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: For nearly 100 years, Columbus residents have been gathering at the Statehouse for the tree lighting. The holiday festival that night also has plenty of family-friendly activities including refreshments, historical characters and singing with carolers. This event begins a month-long holiday celebration at Capitol Square with holiday tours, choir performances and more.

Bicentennial Park, 233 Civic Center Dr. (Downtown), Columbus 43215, 614-645-3300, sciotomile.com PRICE: free

DATE: 5 p.m., Nov. 30 DESCRIPTION: Bring the family

and join Mayor Coleman as the Scioto Mile becomes illuminated for the season. Activities throughout the evening include musical performances and more. And tell kids to be on their best behavior, because Santa might be stopping by! The area will remain lit through the holiday months.

THE GRAND ILLUMINATION OF DOWNTOWN COLUMBUS

WILDLIGHTS Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, 4850 W. Powell Road, Powell 43065 614-645-3550, columbuszoo.org DATES: Nov. 16-Jan. 1, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, Christmas Eve PRICE: regular admission rates ($14.99 ages 10-59, $9.99 ages 2-9, $10.99 ages 60+, free for ages 0-2); parking is $7 per car; members receive free admission and parking. TIMES: 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays DISTANCE: 17 miles northwest from downtown Columbus DESCRIPTION: If you’ve never been to our nationally renowned zoo (it’s pretty much a Columbus crime if you haven’t!), then the Wildlights are the perfect time to go and make some family memories. Beginning midNovember and lasting until 2013, the millions of lights will dazzle you, and kids will love seeing the animals and visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

Activities

news to use: pediatric healthsource RECREATION SERVICES

Here is a snapshot of a few of our upcoming events and programs. Fun family ideas for fall can be found at www.DublinOhioUSA.gov/recreation.

Abbey Theater Presents Magic Man Carroll Baker Saturday, Nov. 3, 11 a.m.

The “hardest working magician in Columbus” returns to the Abbey Theater with lots of laughs! Carroll appeared last year at The Magic Castle in Los Angeles and has new mysteries to present to you. Recommended for ages 5 & up Tickets: $10 adults, $7 children and seniors

The Nutcracker

Saturday, Dec. 1, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Dublin Dance Centre & Gymnastics presents a beautiful rendition of this holiday classic. Recommended for ages 4 & up Tickets: $7 adults, $5 children and seniors

A Christmas Carol

Dec. 6, 7, 13 & 14, 7 p.m. Dec. 8 & 15, 2 & 7 p.m. The Abbey Theater’s fourth annual presentation of the holiday classic: this hour long musical production, written specifically for the Abbey Theater, would even warm the heart of Ebeneezer Scrooge! Recommended for ages 4 & up 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.

http://facebook.com/DublinOhio

www.DublinOhioUSA.gov 32

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

http://twitter.com/DublinOhio DublinOhioUSA.gov/enews

Experts from Nationwide Children’s Hospital answer common questions about health and safety Q: Winter is right around the corner, and it’s got me thinking about over-the-counter medications — cold medications, specifically — and the fact that I’ve been hearing a lot about the risks associated with them. What are some common medications and concerns I need to know about before deciding to give these to my kids? A: You’re right to be thinking about the risks of over-the-counter (OTC) medications. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against giving cough or cold medications to children younger than 2 years old. Likewise, the American Academy of Pediatrics says they are dangerous to kids in this age range. Many people mistakenly believe that OTC medications are safer because they don’t require a prescription. But just like prescription medications, harm can result if children are given incorrect dosages or given the wrong kind of medication. Over-dosage is the most common problem we see with OTC medications. Follow the label instructions exactly. This ensures proper dosage, which depends on your child’s age and weight. Never give your child more than the recommended dose. Be careful when combining medications. Often times, medications contain many of the same active ingredients. Taking more than one can inadvertently lead to an overdose. Choose the right medicine for your child’s symptoms. Common OTC medications include acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol), ibuprofen (e.g., Advil) and decongestants or cough medicines. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can treat pain or fever; ibuprofen can also relieve inflammation. Decongestants shrink blood vessels in the nose and make it easier to breathe. Pay attention to your child’s symptoms and be sure to pick the most appropriate medication. As always, consult with your child’s primary care physician before giving medications to your children. It is also a good idea to talk with a pharmacist when you purchase OTC medications. He or she will be able to answer general questions. If your child has a negative reaction to any medication, or if you are unsure of using certain medications, you can call your Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Marcel J. Casavant, MD, is Division Chief of Pharmacology/ Toxicology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine at The Ohio State University College of Medicine.

Tip of the month Medication Safety Since we are moving into cold season, now is a good time to take stock of your medications (over-the-counter and prescription) and review some basic safety tips. *Keep out of reach of children. You’ve heard it before, but this is one of the most important tips you can follow. Keep medications locked up and away from where your children are. Many unintentional poisonings and deaths occur every year from this. *Discard. Throw away expired prescriptions and don’t save any leftovers for future use. Most drugs lose their potency after about a year. *Do not share. No one should take a drug prescribed for another person — this is dangerous and can cause harm.

news to use: family finance

Smart Gifting

By Denise Trowbridge

The desire to produce holiday joy and memories for our loved ones can make this a tough couple of months if you’re on a budget. Thankfully, slim funds don’t have to equal a second-rate holiday. Use these strategies to make every dollar count.

Group gift. Arren McDonald knows what it means to be stretched. She and her hubby have three sons, eight nieces and nephews, plus stepfamilies. “I try to come up with group gifts,” McDonald said. “For my nieces and nephews and their parents, I do an all-ages board game with a tin of popcorn or a sausage and cheese package to give as a family gift.” That way, she crossed several people off the list with one gift, spent no more than $25, and still provided a thoughtful and fun treat for everyone.

Think ahead, shop ahead. “I shop all year,” said Worthington mom Joanne Savage. “If I see something my mom would love, say some gardening thing on clearance in July, I buy it and put it away for Christmas. I also buy gift cards all year round. If I have $20 extra at Kroger, I buy a gift card. They come in handy as quick gifts if I’ve forgotten someone.” Powell mom Sarah Coy “uses Discover (card) points to buy gift cards at a reduced price. Those cards are either the gift or I use them to buy tangibles, and any points I have left over I use to pay off the January bill.” Stretch! Savage also gets the bonus gas discount for the gift cards. For extra stretch, consider shopping through web portals that refund a portion of your purchase, such as eBates or Upromise, then pay with a rewards credit card to earn rewards twice on the same dollar spent. And keep your eyes peeled for retailer promotions such as the “spend $100, get $50 off” deal at Elder-Beerman, McDonald said.

Keep it simple. Coy’s nieces and nephews get a similar gift every year: a savings bond and a small gift in the $5 to $10 range.

(She also uses coins from the spare-change jar to buy the savings bonds. Genius!) Coy keeps it simple for her own kids as well — a couple of fun toys, a few books and clothes. Stockings are stuffed with a savings bond, dollar-bin toys and sweets: “It’s the same game plan my mom had.”

Quality recycling. Great gifts can come from Craigslist and yard sales. The keys to doing second-hand gifting well are quality and thoughtfulness (matching the gift to the true interests and needs of the receiver). I have long used these sources to buy gifts I otherwise couldn’t afford, including a near-mint Little Tikes play kitchen, Playstation games and accessories, and this year’s Superman mini-pinball machine (shhhh....).

It’s not about the money. Think about the best gifts you’ve ever received — chances are they didn’t come from a store. My mother once handwrote her recipes, along with her mother’s and grandmother’s, and put them in a binder for me. I still use it every time I make my great-grandmother’s legendary apple pie. Right up there was the night my friend Sherri treated my toddler boys to a mac-and-cheese dinner plus a twohour tour of local Christmas lights. They l-o-v-e-d it, and I got the gift of quiet time at home with hubby. A stellar gift, indeed.

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.

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

family fun: Neighborhood spotlight

The Heritag

nter

e Nature Ce

The Heritage Nature Center

Groveport Story by Melissa Kossler Dutton • Photos by Tim Johnson

A spirit of cooperation has played a large role in the history of Groveport. The suburb, which passed the 5,000-resident mark and became a city in 2011, owes its name to a compromise struck in 1847. Before that, two local leaders — Jacob B. Wert and William H. Rarey — each were vying to have the community named for them. The town was divided along what is now College Street into Wert’s Grove to the west and Rarey’s Port to the east. After much debate, village residents opted for Groveport, a name that seemed fair to both men. Twenty-eight years later, residents decided to build a town hall. Village officials worked with two community organizations and Madison Township officials to pay the construction costs. Today, Groveport Town Hall is home to the city’s collection of historical artifacts and other rotating exhibits. A Lego exhibit is planned for Nov. 7 through Dec. 31. Admission to the display, which includes castles, landscapes and famous landmarks built with Lego bricks, is free. The city continues to work with local organizations and

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

The Groveport Recr

neighboring communities to provide quality programming for residents and visitors. The Groveport Recreation Center also welcomes guests from other cities. The center includes a zeroentry indoor pool, a lazy-river water feature, a rock-climbing wall, multi-purpose rooms and a fitness center. Visitors can purchase a day pass to the facility, which opened in 2004. The recreation department hosts birthday parties, “parents’ night out” events and other programming at the center. The city also offers kid-friendly programming at Crooked Alley KidSpace, an entire building dedicated to kids and learning. Preschool Playgroup, held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, gives parents and caregivers a chance to talk and interact while their youngsters sing songs, make crafts and enjoy activities. Parents stay for the 90-minute program, which introduces kids to pre-reading, listening and other skills, said Angela Martin, their playgroup coordinator. “It’s a comfortable way for them to interact with other kids,” she said. Martin also leads music and movement classes on Thurs-

eation Center

days and art classes on Fridays. All of the preschool classes are drop-in and cost $2 for Groveport residents and $3 for non-residents. KidSpace features a classroom, play area and a library, plus there’s an outdoor playground with tree house that is open to the public. The city also offers weekly science, history or nature programs at the Heritage Nature Center, a log house that dates from 1825. The center has a nice selection of nature-related artifacts for kids to look at, said naturalist Tina Dillman. The collection includes taxidermy animals, skulls and animal skins. The displays are very hands-on, she added. “If you come in, you can touch most things,” Dillman said. “If there’s something, I don’t want you to touch, it’s on a high shelf.” The city also allows naturalists from the Columbus Metro Parks to offer programs at the facility. Park staff use the city

building because nearby Three Creeks Park does not have a nature center, Dillman said. Even without a nature center, Three Creeks offers a variety of fun activities for families. The

pet-friendly park has trails, playground equipment and a fishing pond. The city’s Degenhart Park is a good family destination, said Nina Wenger, who lives just outside the city limits. The park has play equipment and plenty of paths for kids to investigate, said Wenger, whose son started kindergarten this year. The Wengers like to walk from the park to Dairy Queen for ice cream on hot days. Another must-see in Groveport is Motts Military Museum, founded by local resident Warren Motts. The museum has an amazing array of military memorabilia dating from the American Revolution. The collection also includes military vehicles and aircraft. Families also will enjoy visiting Dill’s Greenhouse, which hosts a variety of classes and special events.

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Crooked Alley KidSpace

4 8

2 5 3

1. CROOKED ALLEY KIDSPACE 630 Wirt Road 614-836-3333 groveport.org/index.php/community-affairs/kidspace 2. DAIRY QUEEN 230 Main St. 614-836-9656 dairyqueen.com

Three Creeks

Metro Park

3. DEGENHART PARK 300 Lambert St. 614-836-1000 groveportrec.com

4. DILL’S GREENHOUSE 5800 Rager Road 614-836-3700 dillsgreenhouse.net

7. HERITAGE NATURE CENTER 551 Wirt Road groveport.org/index.php/community-affairs/nature-center

5. GROVEPORT TOWN HALL 648 Main St. 614-836-3333 groveport.org/index.php/community-affairs/groveport-town-hall

8. MOTTS MILITARY MUSEUM 5075 South Hamilton Road 614-836-1500 mottsmilitarymuseum.org

6. GROVEPORT RECREATION CENTER 7370 Groveport Road 614-836-1000 groveportrec.com

9. THREE CREEKS PARK 3860 Bixby Road 614-830-0458 metroparks.net/ParksThreeCreeks.aspx columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

family fun: biz spotlight

Angela Martin

Crooked Alley Kidspace Angela Martin spends a lot of time preparing for the drop-in preschool classes that she teaches at Crooked Alley KidSpace in Groveport, but some of her favorite interactions are those she hasn’t planned. She loves the friendships and camaraderie that develop among the children and caregivers who attend her programs. “It’s amazing some of the conversations that go on here,” she said. “It does become a support group of sorts.” —Melissa Kossler Dutton

What can families expect when they come to one of your preschool programs?

A friendly, welcoming environment that encourages interaction and socialization with others. It’s a fun space that not only allows kiddos to come in and learn something, they also get the opportunity to make friends. They can do it in an environment where their parents or caregivers are right there with them along the way.

What are some of the special events that take place here?

There’s always something going on in the building. In addition to the preschool programs four days a week, there’s Just For Kids programs every other week and movement classes. We’ve offered everything from cooking classes to music lessons. Families should always check our website (groveport.org/ index.php/community-

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

Photo by Tim Johnson Angela Martin surrounded by her "kiddos" at Crooked Ally KidSpace in Groveport.

affairs/kidspace) to see what’s going on.

Do you see friendships forming in your programs?

A lot of times when a parent comes here, they say, “I’m looking for opportunities for my child to have social interaction,” but it’s not just the kids making friends. It’s the parents or grandparents. They’re looking for someone to have camaraderie with. Speaking from my own experience, I made some of the most important friendships in my life while participating in playgroup.

What skills do you teach that could translate to school?

In the movement class, I try to give them one or two simple instructions. Listening skills and following instructions are things that a kindergarten teacher is going to be looking for. We work on letter recognition — what a letter looks like, what it sounds like.

Do kids feel an ownership of this space? Absolutely, I can’t tell you how many kids drive by and say, “That’s my school.” It’s fun to see them so comfortable with the space.

Who thought this up

Autumn

Woven Placemats

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.

By Olivera Bratich

Woven placemats brighten up any autumn dinner table and are a great way to get younger kids involved in setting up for Thanksgiving dinner. This simple family project also teaches kids about pattern and design and results in a functional craft.

HOW YOU DO IT WHAT YOU NEED

1. A solid brown piece of paper will form the base of the place mat. Fold the paper in half. 2. Use ruler to make a mark at every inch along the creased edge.

• Brown, yellow and orange construction paper

3. Use scissors to cut a straight line starting at each mark and ending one inch before the other edge of the paper.

• Ruler

4. Open up your placemat base.

• Scissors • Glue stick or glue dots Tim Johnson Photos

5. Cut the orange and yellow papers into one-inch strips.

6. Take an orange piece and weave it over and under the cut strips on your placemat base. Depending on the age of children involved, it may work best for an adult to demonstrate this strip weaving first. 7. Use a glue stick or glue dot to adhere the top and bottom edge of each strip. 8. Repeat with strips going across the entire placemat base. 9. When you are finished the placemats are ready to use as is or you can have them laminated at a copy center for use over multiple years.

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

family fun: parties

How to Build a LEGO Party

By Melissa Kossler Dutton

With opportunities to view awesome Lego displays stacking up in Central Ohio, it’s a good time to plan a Lego-themed birthday party. Groveport Town Hall, COSI and the Columbus Museum of Art are hosting Lego exhibits this month (Groveport’s display ends Dec. 31, COSI’s closes Jan. 6 and the art museum’s runs through Jan. 27). Knowing that the displays might inspire your children to ask for a Lego party, Columbus Parent Magazine asked event planner Abby Lechner, owner of Frolic: Playful Kids Parties, for advice. Lechner recently organized a Lego party for her son Julian.

WHAT: Lego Party WHERE: Your home WHY: Kids never tire of making new Lego

creations and the colorful building bricks are a built-in source of fun at the party, Lechner said. The theme also appeals to boys and girls of all ages. INVITATIONS: Legos lend themselves to easy homemade invitation options, Lechner said. A rectangular card can be made to look like one of the iconic bricks by gluing circles to it. Another simple idea is printing the party details on a piece of cardstock and tying it to a large Lego and hand delivering it to guests. FOOD: It’s easy to incorporate the Lego theme into the refreshments. Several local candy stores sell Lego-shaped candies that can be used to decorate cupcakes or added to trail mix. Many online retailers sell molded chocolates and lollipops in the shape of Lego bricks and mini-figures, Lechner said. She suggested making your own Lego-figurine head treats by dipping large marshmallows into melted, yellow candy discs (like the Wilton brand, available at craft and candy-making stores). After the yellow coating hardens, use food markers or icing to draw faces on them. When planning the rest of the treats, choose food in bright, primary colors — like apples, carrots, broccoli and red and yellow peppers — to correspond with Lego colors. CAKE: There are lots of Lego-inspired cake ideas online. One of the simplest is a 13 x 9 cake decorated to look like a Lego brick. The cake is frosted in a primary color with four or six iced cupcakes set on it, resembling a Lego piece. DECORATIONS: The Lego color scheme also lends itself to easy decorations, Lechner said. She suggests using streamers or balloons in primary colors and making large Legos out of empty rectangular and

oatmeal boxes or other circular containers. For her son’s party, she created a table runner that was inspired by the green Lego base plates. She made the runners by spray-painting bubble wrap green. ENTERTAINMENT: Lego-building is a must. Lechner suggests having a large table set up where kids can play with Legos. Older children might enjoy a relay race where they have to make a Lego creation or pass them on spoon. Another option is building vehicles that children can race. Many traditional party games can be given a Lego twist. You can hide the bricks for a scavenger hunt or put them in a jar for a guessing game. Lechner suggests letting kids make shirts. For her son’s party, she screen-printed a blank Lego figurine on a shirt and gave children fabric markers to decorate it. Lechner also used some of the large Legos she made out of boxes to create a game that was a cross between a pinata and The Price Is Right “Punch-A-Bunch” game. Each child had the opportunity to punch open one of the homemade Lego

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

boxes to reveal candy and prizes. She created the game because she thought it would be safer than having children whack a pinata. PARTY FAVORS: Legos are available at a variety of price points. A mystery minifigure costs about $3 and small Lego sets range from $5 to $15. Favor bags can be made from small gift bags with circles attached, again to resemble Lego bricks. For her recent party, she found round yellow buckets for $1 at a local party store. She used a permanent marker to add a face so the buckets resembled Lego heads. ADDITONAL INFORMATION: While planning the party, keep the age of the guests in mind. Small children may not be able to assemble complicated Lego sets. They also should not be given small Lego pieces as they can be a choking hazard. Regardless of the age of the children, it’s a good idea to have adults on hand to help with Lego building. Learn more about Lechner’s party planning at frolickids.com.

Photos provided by Abby Lechner

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

family fun: Cooking with kids

Give thanks for a great table! By Melissa Kossler Dutton • photos by joe maiorana

Amanda Dick never minded setting the table when it was one of her chores. And even though the task is no longer one of her jobs at home, the 13-year-old still spends time doing it. The Grove City resident has become a competitive table setter. She earned a first-place ribbon at the Franklin County Fair this summer for her picnic-themed place setting. “It’s really cool,” she said. “It’s definitely fun to create something.” She likes coming up with table arrangements that fit the themes in the 4-H competitions. The eighth grader at Pleasant View Middle School also enjoys seeing how her competitors interpret the theme.

Centerpiece: Once you

have a theme, Amanda suggests designing a centerpiece. Her Thanksgiving centerpiece incorporated dried flowers from her yard, artificial flowers that she purchased at a local craft store and items that her mother had for fall decorating. She also created turkeys — which she thought would be a fun, kid-friendly project — out of artificial flowers and foam turkey kits. She used an inexpensive basket filled with a Styrofoam ball as a base for the arrangement. Tip: Make sure the arrangement contains pieces with varying heights. You can

Ideas for getting started on a tablescape: 1. After you’ve chosen your theme, look online. There are lots of great websites that have ideas for centerpieces, place cards or other table props.

“It’s fun to see what everyone else comes up with,” she said. We asked Amanda to come up with a Thanksgiving-themed tablescape that Columbus Parent readers and their children could recreate. She drew her inspiration from the outdoors and fall.

find advice on creating flower arrangements online.

ferent things look in different spots.

Individual place settings: Gather all the

Linens and napkins:

items that are necessary for the meal you are serving and begin arranging them on the table. Amanda was glad that her mother already had dark green plates because they complimented her color scheme. She purchased fallinspired glasses at a thrift store. She suggests finding glassware that compliments the theme because it gives the setting “pop.”

Tip: Arrange the dishes all different ways because you will be surprised how dif-

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

This is another place where it’s possible to add interest without spending a lot of money. Amanda found her napkins at a discount store. After several tries, she decided that having them poke out of the glasses was a whimsical touch that kids would enjoy. She was able to use a tablecloth that her mother had, but she said placemats would have worked well, too. Tip: Place confetti or other small decorations down the center of the tablecloth. “It adds a little

2. Look through decorations that you already have for items that fit your theme. 3. Go to a variety of stores before buying. Think about shopping at dollar, thrift or craft stores. 4. Make your centerpiece first.

something and it’s something fun for the kids to do,” Amanda said.

Place cards: Amanda

wanted to create a place card that was eye-catching and fit her theme. While searching online, she came across the idea to weave string along pumpkin and

gourds. She worried that it might be too much but was pleased with the result. She lightly pounded small nails into the vegetables and then wound string around them. Tip: Use photos instead of written names on place cards — especially if your child helper can’t read.

5. Arrange your dishes on the table in a variety of ways until you are satisfied with the results. Source: Amanda Dick

family fun: EATING OUT WITH KIDS

TAT Ristorante di Famiglia THE MOM SAYS

Maybe you’re like us and you’ve heard about TAT Ristorante di Famiglia, a legendary Italian dining establishment on Columbus’s east side, but you’ve never been there. Well, after some of the unusual places I’ve made my fellow critic dine lately, I figured I owed him some straight-up Italian food, which happens to be some of his favorite food. And that’s exactly what we got — and enjoyed — at this restaurant. First established in 1929 by the Corrova family, TAT Ristorante reminds me of what going out to dinner was like when I was a kid, before so many restaurants became either cookie-cutter chains or high-minded concept eateries. It’s just very, very homey and comfortable. Could you make a lot of this food yourself at home? Probably, but sometimes it’s nice to head out

to a meal, and enjoy a basket of really good hot bread, a salad (on a wellchilled plate), a cup of veggie-rich minestrone soup and a big plate of delicious baked lasagna that somebody else made and somebody else serves you. The waitress, who is probably somebody’s grandmother, hovered and fussed over us, but didn’t overdo it. The décor (which includes framed portraits of the most recent bishops to serve the Roman Catholic Diocese of Columbus) probably hasn’t changed much in the last couple of decades. The women’s bathroom was small, clean and had a small diaper-changing station mounted to the wall. The host, also probably somebody’s grandfather, made sure no kid left without candy in his or her pocket. Bottom line, the place oozes family and I really enjoyed lingering over dinner here with mine. —Jane Hawes

TAT Ristorante di Famiglia 1210 S. James Road, Columbus 43227 614-236-1392;

tatitalian.com Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Tues-

days-Thursdays and Sundays; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturdays; closed Mondays

Costs: Antipasto plate

($7.95), kids’ menu (all $5.95), pasta entrees ($11.95$15.95), homemade pizzas ($12.95-$15.95), Italian specialty entrees ($11.95-$20.95), desserts ($2.25-$5.50)

photos by tim johnson

HOW'D THEY LIKE IT? THE FOOD

THE SERVICE

THE BATHROOM

THE KID SAYS

When my mom told me I was going to an Italian restaurant, I expected many different types of pastas and salads, and also more than two sauces on everything. I’ve noticed with Italian foods they tend to drown it in sauces and I think I’ve established in two years of writing restaurant reviews that I don’t like sauces. I thought it was nice ordering spaghetti and not asking the waitress to take off anything like cheeses. What I got was spaghetti and meatball (and, yes, I meant meatball because in the middle of the plate there was just one big meatball, which was amazing). I liked the red marinara sauce because it was in good moderation. I also got the wedding soup (I’m not getting married), which was a chicken soup with mushrooms. I thought the soup was

really good unless you got a little more mushroom than chicken on the spoon. For dessert I got spumoni ice cream. I liked it because it was a mix of flavors. I believe it was cherry, pistachio and vanilla. My mother told me it’s a traditional Italian dessert. The bathroom was OK. There was no diaper-changing station in the men’s room. The atmosphere there was really welcoming. I was definitely looking at all the pictures from the past that were on the walls. All of the workers there seemed like they wanted to be there and they were happy to be working there. Sometimes at other restaurants you don’t get that feeling. I definitely enjoyed going to TAT Ristorante and I would go back. —Colin Hawes

Favorite Bite Mom: baked lasagna Kid: spumoni ice cream GRADING SCALE

GREAT!

GOOD.

MEH.

BOO.

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

family fun: overnight trippin'

except in really bad weather, carousel, mini-golf and more), the Chicago Children’s Museum (chicagochildrensmuseum.org) and year-round boat cruises.

PIZZA!

Downtown Chicago photos provided by choosechicago.com

By Jane Hawes and Heather Weekley A pre-holiday trip to Chicago is a delightful tradition for many families. In the downtown area bordering Lake Michigan, you have a critical mass of shopping, dining and family-fun destinations, not to mention plenty of hotels in a range of price options. We’ve culled the many options to create a To-Do List if you’re planning a trip to the Windy City:

SHOPPING The Magnificent Mile is the name bestowed upon the stretch of North Michigan Avenue that comes pre-loaded with plenty of

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

ways to spend your holiday budget. Ogling the holiday-themed store windows (especially the department store windows) is a Chicago tradition. Some of the stores you’ll find along here include: The Disney Store (717 N. Michigan Ave., stores.disneystore.com); The North Face (875 N. Michigan Ave., thenorthface.com); Niketown (669 N. Michigan Ave., nike.com); Nordstrom (55 E. Grand Ave., shop.nordstrom.com); Saks Fifth Avenue (700 N. Michigan Ave., saksfifthavenue.com). And, just for something different, visit Garrett Popcorn (625 N. Michigan Ave., garrettpopcorn.com) for a real Chicago gifting fave. Water Tower Place (835 N. Michigan Ave., shopwatertower.

com) is technically on The Magnificent Mile, but deserves a mention of its own, in part thanks to the presence of the American Girl Place store (1-877-247-5223, americangirl.com/stores) — special store hours may apply during the holiday season (call or check their website for details). Other great shops in this seven-level urban mall include Macy’s, The LEGO Store, Marbles: The Brain Store and LittleMissMatched. Water Tower Place also has a great food court called Foodlife and several other restaurants. Navy Pier (600 E. Grand Ave., 312-595-7437, navypier.com) is another popular family destination with touristy shops, restaurants, rides and games (think: Ferris wheel — open year-round

Probably no city on this planet has done more to advance the cause of pizza than Chicago, and the natives will advocate strongly for their favorites. Here are some of the most popular choices: Giordano’s Pizza (730 N. Rush St., 312-951-0747, giordanos. com) is the champion of the stuffed-crust pizza genre. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria (439 N. Wells St., 312-828-9800, loumalnatis.com) features award-winning deep-dish pizza; offshoot of the Pizzeria Uno family (after a parting of the family way). Maggiano’s Little Italy 516 N. Clark St., 312-644-7700, maggianos.com) has lotsa pasta, too. Pizzeria Uno (29 E. Ohio St., 312-321-1000, unos.com) is home of the original deep-dish pizza.

NON-PIZZA

Just in case you’ve got someone going through a non-pizza phase, here are two other very popular options: Ed Debevic’s (630 N. Wells St., 312-664-1707, eddebevics.com) is great diner-style food with a twist: The wait staff (many of them underemployed actors)

treat the customers with gum-snapping rudeness — on purpose! Whether you tell the kids about that before eating there is entirely up to you. Breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays only, lunch and dinner every day. Hard Rock Café (63 W. Ontario St., 312-943-2252, hardrock.com) features a ton of Chicago blues (and blues-influenced) artist memorabilia and serves up hearty burgers and smokehouse sandwiches.

FAMILY (LEARNING) FUN

The Museum Campus, located just south of the Magnificent Mile, is a peninsula packed with three great museums that kids (and grown-ups) love. If you visit on a weekday, we’ve found the Shedd Aquarium is overly crowded with visiting school kids first thing in the morning, so it’s less of a hassle to visit the Adler Planetarium first, then the Field Museum and then the aquarium.

Adler Planetarium (1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312-9227827, adlerplanetarium.org) has three theaters and 11 exhibitions currently. One of its shows, “One World, One Sky,” takes place every day at 10 a.m. and uses the talents of Big Bird and Elmo to teach young children about the night sky. Field Museum of Natural History (1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312-922-9410, fieldmuseum.org) is probably most famous for being home to Sue, the largest and best preserved T. Rex skeleton ever discovered, but it’s also filled with excellent and thought-provoking exhibits about zoology, anthropology, botany and geology. Shedd Aquarium (1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312939-2438, sheddaquarium. org) has exhibits featuring aquatic life from just about every water zone on the planet, plus an aquatic show featuring dolphins and beluga whales. From Nov. 25-Jan. 2, the dolphins and whales perform their “Holiday Fantasea” show.

Save Sightseeing Bucks! A Chicago CityPass can be a thrifty purchase if you know you’re going to visit several sightseeing destinations. It costs $69 (for ages 3-11) or $84 (ages 12+) and gets you half-price entry (often with line-cutting privileges) to the Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, Skydeck Chicago, the Adler Planetarium (or the Art Institute, their great art museum) and the John Hancock Observatory (or the Museum of Science and Industry). Visit citypass.com/ Chicago for more information or to buy one. Another money-saving option is to shop around for downtown hotels that offer free admission tickets to local attractions as part of a package. Most do, especially on weekends.

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

november 2012

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

THURSDAY 1 FREE! Baby Games, Ages 0-18 months. 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-4862951. FREE! Chess Club, Checkmate! Chess lovers of all levels are welcome to join the UAPL Chess Club. Our local teen experts 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. FREE! Family Support Group, For caregivers of children with special needs. ECRN+ Family Support Group is a monthly gathering held in an environment for families of special needs children to facilitate connections, share information and ideas. 6-8 p.m. ECRN Office, 6555 Busch Blvd., Columbus. 614-543-9000 x215. ymcacolumbus.org/ECRN FREE! The Great Pumpkin Drop, Sponsored by the Marysville Division of Fire, join Andy and the other fireman for this brand new exciting event; fun for the whole family! For any donation amount, bring your pumpkin and watch as firefighters chuck it from atop the 100’ ladder of the fire truck. In addition to the splattery fun, fall treats will be offered, bouncy houses, as well as tours of the brand new fire station and fire truck exploration for the kiddos. Proceeds from the event will be given to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. 4-7 p.m. Decker Fire Station, 16300 County Home Road, Marysville. 614-519-6365. FREE! Guinea Pig Birthday Party, Help us celebrate our guinea pig’s

birthday with stories, snacks and activities. He has everything he needs, but we will accept donations in his honor for the Capital Area Humane Society pocket pets. All ages are welcome. 4 p.m. Lane Road Library, 1945 Lane Road, Upper Arlington. 614-459-0273. FREE! Preschoolers: Scat and Tracks, Learn to recognize tracks and scat animals leave behind, and make your own animal tracks. Meet at Confluence Trails Bulletin Board. 10 a.m. Three Creek Metro Park, 3860 Bixby Rd., Groveport. 614891-0700. Story time!, Erica Carlson Children’s Entertainment will be performing her fantabulous story time for the kiddos! Erica brings wonderful stories, props and involves the kiddos for a captivating story adventure. 10:3011 a.m. Firefly Play Cafe, 4822 N. High St., Clintonville. 614-2302375. fireflyplaycafe.com

FRIDAY 2 Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Pittsburgh Penguins, 7 p.m. Starting at $15. Nationwide Arena, 200 W. Nationwide Blvd., Arena District. 800-NHL-COLS. SUBJECT TO LOCKOUT CANCELLATION. 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! Grades K-5. 3:15-5 p.m.Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951. Gym and Swim Time, We will have gymnastics equipment and other fun toys out in the gym for kids from every Friday. Parent supervision is required. The leisure pool will also be open. No registration necessary; just show up and have fun. 9:30-11:30

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

Shop A round Saturday, Nov. 10 — The Grange Insurance Audubon Center, located at 505 W. Whittier St., is hosting its third annual event just in time for the holidays. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. you’ll find more than 20 local vendors selling jewelry, art, books and other great gift ideas.

a.m. Free for Members, Day Pass for Non-Members. Delaware Community Center YMCA, 1121 South Houk Road, Delaware. 740-203-3051. ymcacolumbus.org/delaware Multicultural Families Potluck & Discussion Group, This is a group for parents and children. The goals of the group are support, friendship and fun. 6:30-8:30 p.m. First Unitarian Universalist, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Clintonville. 614-853-0039.

Bring the family, because there will be goodies and activities for the kids. Admission to the Holiday Shop Around is free for all. Learn more at grangeinsuranceauduboncenter.org.

Parents’ PlayDate: Morning Out, Snack, activity and coffee (to go) for you is included. New to Piccadilly? Come a few minutes early so we can get your account set up. 9:30-11:30 a.m. $22 per child, $10 for each additional. Piccadilly, 2501 E. Main St., Bexley. 614-725-0204.

to children with physical disabilities and one sibling, ages 4-18. The one hour classes are taught by a licensed Art Therapist. Pre-registration is required. 11 a.m.-12 noon. Schiller Park Community Center, 1069 Jaeger St., German Village. 614-750-2198. kyaskrusade.org

Three Bags Full Kids Consignment Sale - Holiday Sale, This will be the first holiday sale and we are looking forward to this event. You will find everything holiday related. Clothing, toys and decor. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Community Wesleyan Church, 161 Myrtle Ave, Newark. 614-325-0063. threebagsfull.info

Pickerington PTO’s Annual Antique & Craft Show, It’s the 28th year for the Pickerington Antique & Craft Show. Come join us! 9 a.m.3 p.m. $3, $2 for seniors, and children 12 and under are free. Pickerington Central High School, 300 Opportunity Way, Pickerington. 614-866-4915. facebook.com/ pages/Pickerington-Antique-CraftShow/11516091922900

SATURDAY 3 FREE! Campfire and Stargazing, Share some stories and observe features of the night sky with astronomer Roger Grossenbacher. Bring treats to roast over the fire. Meet at Glacier Knoll Picnic Area. 5:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Pickerington Ponds Metro Park, 7680 Wright Rd., Canal Winchester. 614-891-0700. FREE! Kya’s Krusade Art Therapy Program, Kya’s Krusade, in partnership with Columbus Recreation and Parks, provides 4-week series of Art Therapy classes throughout the year

FREE! Saturday Story Stomp, Ages 2-5 years. 11-11:30 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951 FREE! S’more Music Campfire, Sing along with Columbus Folk Music Society members as you enjoy s’mores around a campfire. Meet at nature center. 5 p.m. Battelle-Darby Creek Metro Park, 1775 Darby Creek Dr., Galloway. 614-891-0700. Three Bags Full Kids Consignment Sale - Holiday Sale, This will be the first holiday sale and we are looking forward to this event. You will find everything holiday related. Cloth-

ing, toys and decor. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Community Wesleyan Church, 161 Myrtle Ave, Newark. 614-325-0063. threebagsfull.info FREE! Yoga Storytime, Ages 3-5 and their caregivers will hear stories and re-tell them through basic yoga poses and stretches. No previous yoga experience needed! 10:30-11 a.m. Old Worthington Library, 820 High St., Worthington. 614-8072626. worthingtonlibraries.org/ calendar

SUNDAY 4 2012 Kellogg’s Tour of Gymnastics Champions, 2008 Olympic all-around champion Nastia Liukin will lead an impressive cast that will include members of the men’s and women’s 2011 World Championships and 2012 Olympic teams, along with past Olympians and U.S. medalists in men’s, women’s, rhythmic and acrobatic gymnastics and trampoline and tumbling. 4 p.m. $28-$203. Schottenstein Center, 555 Borror Dr., Campus. 614-2922624. ticketmaster.com Chili Cook-off and Pie Auction, Join us as we sample great chili and pie! We will have donation boxes for the chili, and we will accept cash or checks for the pie auction. All proceeds to benefit Atonement

Lutheran Preschool—a great place to grow! 12 noon-3 p.m. All donations to benefit the preschool. All are welcome. Atonement Lutheran Preschool, 1621 Francisco Rd, Upper Arlington. 614-451-1880. atonementchurch.com Family Night, Offers organized activities, games and crafts at the beginning of the night with a mixer with healthy snacks to follow. 6:30-8 p.m. YMCA Members Free, Non-Member $15/family includes day pass. Delaware Community Center YMCA, 1121 S. Houk Road, Delaware. 740-203-3051. ymcacolumbus.org/delaware FREE! Family Theme Day: Migration, Search for migratory birds. Meet at nature center. 1 p.m. Highbanks Metro Parks, 9466 Columbus Pike, Powell. 614-891-0700. FREE! Geocaching Challenge, Join the search for geocaches hidden in the park. The team that stamps and logs the most caches in an hour will win a Geocoin. Prizes for all participants! A limited number of GPS units available to borrow. Meet at Confluence Trails Bulletin Board. 3:30 p.m. Three Creek Metro Park, 3860 Bixby Rd., Groveport. 614891-0700. FREE! Math Plus Academy Open House, Discover how your child can thrive at Math Plus Academy! Get

your questions answered about each of our classes and camps and meet some of our amazing staff. 1-2:30 p.m. 5346 N. Hamilton Road, Gahanna and 9681 Sawmill Road, Powell. 614-792-6284. mathplusacademy.com FREE! Natural Play Area Adventure: Fairy and Troll Houses, Make tiny houses out of natural materials for “fairies” and “trolls” so they can stay warm in the woods throughout winter. Meet at Shady Grove Picnic Area. 2 p.m. Slate Run Metro Park, 1375 State Route 674 N., Canal Winchester. 614-891-0700. FREE! Natural Play Area Adventure: Survival, Learn how to make survival shelters in the natural play area. Meet at Cherry Ridge Program Area. 2 p.m. Blendon Woods Metro Park, 4265 E. Dublin-Granville Rd., Westerville. 614-891-0700. Vets 4 Pets 5K Run/Walk, A family friendly, pet friendly 5K run/walk to benefit Friends of the Shelter. Come out and join us for a walk or jog around the beautiful fall Ohio State Campus. The race will take you around the vet school and near the Shoe. 8:30 a.m. $30, advance $25. OSU College of Veterinary Medicine, 1900 Coffey Rd., Campus. 419615-8006. https://www.facebook. com/pages/OSU-Vets-4-Pets-5KRunWalk/157986000892242

MONDAY 5 FREE! Music & Movement, Ages 2-5 years. 1-1:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951. Story and Swim Time, Join us at every Monday at 9:30 a.m. in the Community Room for story time. Afterwards, stay and enjoy the leisure pool for more fun in the water. No registration necessary. 9:30-11 a.m. Free for Members, Day Pass for Non-Members. Delaware Community Center YMCA, 1121 S. Houk Road, Delaware. 740-203-3051. ymcacolumbus.org/delaware

TUESDAY 6 Ciao Italia!, This class will include themed topics, recognizing famous Italian buildings or landmarks and even trying Italian foods. Cost includes unlimited play for the child enrolled in class. Sibling cost for class is $90, Sibling cost to play in playspace during class is $5. 9:30-10 a.m. $130 for 10 classes. Piccadilly, 2501 E. Main St., Bexley. 614-725-0204. Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Calgary Flames, 7 p.m. Starting at $15. Nationwide Arena, 200 W. Nationwide Blvd., Arena District. 800-NHL-COLS. bluejackets.com. SUBJECT TO LOCKOUT CANCELLATION.

Introduction to Calligraphy, Learn the basics of this beautiful writing art with Sandy Mundy of the Calligraphy Guild of Columbus! For adults and children 12 and older accompanied by an adult. Class maximum: 10. 7 p.m. $15. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951. FREE! Play & Learn Storytime, Each week we’ll focus on one of the five practices - talking, reading, singing, playing and writing - through which children learn early literacy skills. Learn easy, inexpensive ways you can help your 2 to 5 year-old get ready to read! 6:30-7:30 p.m. Worthington Park Library, 1389 Worthington Centre Dr., Worthington. 614-807-2626. worthingtonlibraries.org/calendar FREE! Preschoolers: Hibernation Time, Enjoy fun activities while learning how wild animals stay warm in the winter. Meet at Glacier Knoll Picnic Area. 10 a.m. Pickerington Ponds Metro Park, 7680 Wright Rd., Canal Winchester. 614-891-0700. FREE! Preschool Story Time, Ages 3-5. 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951. FREE! Tales for Toddlers, Ages 1836 months. 10:15-10:45 a.m. and 11-11:30 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

WEDNESDAY 7 Big Kid Art, Students will try out different approaches to art techniques and mediums. They’ll study and learn different artists and paint in their style. Includes snack and drink, and they may play in playspace before or after class Sibling cost for class is $10, Sibling cost to play in playspace during class is $5. 3:45-5 p.m. $130 for 10 classes. Piccadilly, 2501 E. Main St., Bexley. 614-7250204. FREE! Homeschoolers: Turkey Time, Search off-trail for our flock of turkeys and discover why these gobblers are so popular. Age 6-12. Meet a nature center. 1 p.m. Blendon Woods Metro Park, 4265 E. Dublin-Granville Rd., Westerville. 614-891-0700. FREE! Family Story Time, Ages 2-5 years. 6:30-7 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951. Make It & Play It, Make It & Play It includes art and music (you make instruments). Cost includes unlimited play for the child in class. Sibling cost for class is $100, sibling cost to play in playspace during class is $5. For ages 2-5 years. 10:30-11 a.m. $140. Piccadilly, 2501 E. Main St., Bexley. 614-725-0204.

Stroller Strut, Bring your stroller and walk around the indoor track with other parents and caregivers every Wednesday. This is a fun way to get your exercise with your child and meet other adults. No registration necessary. 9:30-11 a.m. Free for Members, Day Pass for Non-Members. Delaware Community Center YMCA, 1121 South Houk Road, Delaware. 740-203-3051. ymcacolumbus.org/delaware Thurber House Young Writers’ Studio, Tired of writing about what you did during your summer vacation? Are you looking for something more challenging or a way to let your imagination run free? If so, then Young Writers’ Studio is the place for you. Join facilitator Robert Loss and explore new genres, expand your skills and have fun. You even get the opportunity to bring in your own work to share and receive feedback. Visit our website for more details. 6-8 p.m. $15. The Thurber Center, 91 Jefferson Ave., Downtown. 614464-1032 ext. 16. thurberhouse. org/young-writers-studio-2012.html

THURSDAY 8 FREE! Baby Games, Ages 0-18 months. 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-4862951.

FREE! Homeschoolers: Hoarders of the Hills, Explore the life history of the Allegheny wood rat. First discovered in Ohio here in the Neotoma Valley by naturalist and former metro Parks Board Member Ed Thomas, you’ll learn how this “pack rat” became extirpated from the area. Meet at Thomas-Mathias Parking Lot. 2 p.m. Clear Creek Metro Park, 185 Clear Creek Road, Rockbridge. 614-891-0700. FREE! LEGO Lit, When books and LEGOs collide, you get LEGO Lit! Each month we share a story and build around a theme. The Friends of the UAPL provide the LEGOs, you provide the fun. Registration is required and begins two weeks before each event. Grades K-4. 4 p.m. Upper Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington. 614-486-9621. FREE! Story Stew: Everything Gross, Listen to a story and brew up some fun and games at the Library. Space is limited, sign up in Youth Services Dept. or call. Grades K-3. 3:15-4:15 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

FREE ADMISSION

November 7 – December 31

Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day

Monday – Saturday 9 am – 8 pm Sundays Noon – 6 pm Groveport Town Hall 648 Main Street, Groveport 614-836-3333

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nov. 2012 FREE! Teen Leader’s Club Informational Meeting, Join us for our first Teen Leaders Club Informational Meeting. Teen Leaders Club is a program that brings Teens together to develop group leadership skills, as well as allowing individuals to grow by building a healthy spirit, mind and body. Teens meet on a monthly basis, in addition to other activities, trips and volunteer opportunities. Teen Hub. No registration necessary. 6-7 p.m. Delaware Community Center YMCA, 1121 South Houk Road, Delaware. 740-203-3051. ymcacolumbus.org/delaware

FRIDAY 9 FREE! Family Night, Each week open gyms are offered to Preschool through Middle School age kids and their families with age appropriate equipment. An art craft will be available in the Art Room as well as a room for family board games. This program is free to anyone and pre-registration is not necessary. All children must be accompanied by an adult and vice versa. 6:30-9 p.m. Worthington Community Center, 345 E. Wilson Bridge Rd, Worthington. 614-436-2743. Linworth Children’s Center Gift Fest and Craft Show, There will be 60+ vendors, a lunch and bake sale, and silent bidding for themed baskets. Twenty percent of purchases from

vendors, 100 percent of the baked sale profits and 100 percent of the themed baskets will support the LCC Scholarship Fund. The LCC Scholarship is a ministry that offers financial assistance to families in need of short and long term tuition assistance. 3-8 p.m. Linworth Um Children Center, 7070 Bent Tree Blvd, Northwest Side. 614-336-9559. linworthcc.org

Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington. 614-486-9621.

SATURDAY 10

FREE! Gahanna’s Holiday Lights! Illumination of Grand Tree and Winter Wonderland, Gahanna heralds the holiday season with the illumination ceremony, along with the returning Holiday Village, located in the center of Olde Gahanna at Creekside Plaza. Mayor Becky Stinchcomb will officiate at the lighting ceremony from the Rotary Stage at Creekside Plaza and the new LED display will light up the lagoon. 6 p.m. Creekside Park & Plaza, 123 Mill St., Gahanna. 614-4189114. visitgahanna.com

FREE! AlpacaFest, See these amazing alpacas at their best performing and competing in the show ring. There will also be vendors with all sorts of alpaca apparel and products. Shop early for the holidays and help support your local alpaca industry. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Ohio State Fairgrounds, 717 E. 17th Ave., North Side. 216-235-0367 . alpaca-farms-breeders.com Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Los Angeles Kings, 7 p.m. Starting at $15. Nationwide Arena, 200 W. Nationwide Blvd., Arena District. 800-NHL-COLS. bluejackets.com. SUBJECT TO LOCKOUT CANCELLATION. FREE! Fall Crafts, Make a grapevine wreath to adorn your home. Materials provided. Meet at Wetland Viewing Deck. 11 a.m. Chestnut Ridge Metro Park, 8445 Winchester Rd., 614-8910700. FREE! Fall Family Stroll, Take a one mile walk and see what animals are doing to get ready for winter. Meet at Schrock Lake Restrooms. 1 p.m. Sharon Woods Metro Park, 6911 S Cleveland Ave, Westerville. 614-8910700. FREE! Fall Foliage Crafts, Celebrate the beauty of fall with us! We’ll create crafts inspired by fall colors and foliage. Be sure to wear clothes that can get messy. Drop in anytime that hour. Ages 3-8. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Upper

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| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

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Family Fun, Kids create bookmark and bookplate crafts. Story time at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Free with admission. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free with $6-$11 admission. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E. Broad St., East Side. 614-715-8000. fpconservatory.org

Grove City YMCA 4th Annual 5k Turkey Trot, 9 a.m. $25. Grove City YMCA, 3600 Discovery Dr., Grove City. 614-871-9622. ymcacolumbus.org/ grovecity FREE! Homeschoolers: Turkey Time, Search off-trail for our flock of turkeys and discover why these gobblers are so popular. Age 6-12. Meet a nature center. 1 p.m. Blendon Woods Metro Park, 4265 E. Dublin-Granville Rd., Westerville. 614-891-0700. Jazz Arts Group: PBJ & Jazz, Saturday PBJ & Jazz concerts are 1-hour long interactive concerts designed to introduce jazz and American music to young children and their families. Featuring some of Columbus’ finest musicians and ensembles, PBJ & Jazz concerts are a great introduction to live music for the youngest audience member. Lincoln Theater, 769 East Long Street, Downtown. 614-294-

5200. jazzartsgroup.org Linworth Children’s Center Gift Fest and Craft Show, There will be 60+ vendors, a lunch and bake sale, and silent bidding for themed baskets. Twenty percent of purchases from vendors, 100 percent of the baked sale profits and 100 percent of the themed baskets will support the LCC Scholarship Fund. The LCC Scholarship is a ministry that offers financial assistance to families in need of short and long term tuition assistance. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Linworth Um Children Center, 7070 Bent Tree Blvd, Northwest Side. 614-336-9559. linworthcc.org FREE! Natural Play Area Adventures: GPS Critter Cache, Stop by the natural play area and search for hidden critters using your GPS unit, or borrow one of ours. Limited units available. Meet at Beaver Lake. 1-3 p.m. Prairie Oaks Metro Park, 2755 Amity Rd., Plain City. 614-891-0700. Parents’ PlayDate- An Evening Out!, You drop off the kids and enjoy and evening out on your own. Dinner, movie and activity included for each child. Pick your three-hour time block. Can pro-rate additional time if you need it. Please try to email or call ahead at least two days to book your spot. We staff to the number of signups received. 5:30-10 p.m. $35 per child, $15 for each additional. Piccadilly , 2501 E. Main St., Bexley. 614-7250204. FREE! Pieces of the Past, Come tour the Gallant Farm Preserve farmhouse and enjoy Depression-era quilts on display. Try your hand with a needle and thread on the work-in-progress on the quilting frame. All ages are welcome. 12 noon-4 p.m. Gallant Farm Preserve, 2150 Buttermilk Hill Road, Delaware. 740-524-8600, ext. 3. preservationparks.com

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be 21 years or older with a child close to the age of 3. The study involves two 2-hour visits at a research lab with mother and child. $80 compensation will be provided in total for completing the two lab visits. If interested, please call or email: Call: (614) 292-1875 Email: acerstudy@ehe.osu.edu

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FREE! Print & Paint, Ever wanted to know which animals go with which tracks? Join us as we teach you how to identify various prints you might see while hiking. We’ll go on a short hike in search of tracks, and then you’ll paint your very own track to take home. Ages 5+. 1-3 p.m. Deer Haven Preserve, 4183 Liberty Rd., Delaware. 740-5248600, ext. 3. preservationparks.com Safe Sitter Course, This one-day course teaches teens, ages 11 & older, to be safe, responsible babysitters. Babysitting as a business, behavior management techniques, first aid, choking prevention, and much more are covered. Class includes completion card and Student Manual. Bring a lunch and snack. Community Room. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. YMCA Member $40, NonMember $60. Delaware Community Center YMCA, 1121 South Houk Road, Delaware. 740-203-3051. ymcacolumbus.org/Delaware FREE! Tween Writing Workshop, Sarah Magill leads this writing workshop just in time for the holidays. Students will write a story based upon the prompt, “A funny thing happened on the way to Thanksgiving dinner...” This is a two part workshop; participants must be able to attend both dates. Registration is required. Grades 5-7. 2-4 p.m. Upper Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington. 614-486-9621.

. alpaca-farms-breeders.com FREE! Creature Feature Puppet Show, Join the Highbanks puppets as they talk about their preparations for winter. Meet at nature center. 1 p.m. Highbanks Metro Parks, 9466 Columbus Pike, Powell. 614-891-0700. FREE! Just for Kids: Owls, Learn all about owls and then trying calling them in on a one mile hike. Ages 6-12. Meet at Beaver Lake. 6 p.m. Prairie Oaks Metro Park, 2755 Amity Rd., Plain City. 614-891-0700. No Limits Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament, benefits the JCC Early Childhood program. 12 noon start, $100 buy-in, $65 rebuys. Zusman Building, JCC, 1129 College Ave., East Columbus. 614-559-6295. columbusjcc.org FREE! Pieces of the Past, Come tour the Gallant Farm Preserve farmhouse and enjoy Depression-era quilts on display. Try your hand with a needle and thread on the work-in-progress on the quilting frame. All ages are welcome. 12 noon-4 p.m. Gallant Farm Preserve, 2150 Buttermilk Hill Road, Delaware. 740-524-8600, ext. 3. preservationparks.com

SUNDAY 11

FREE! Puppy Paws, Learn how wild canines adapt to winter and discover steps you can take to see that your own canine enjoys the change of season. Meet at nature center. 2 p.m. Blendon Woods Metro Park, 4265 E. Dublin-Granville Rd., Westerville. 614891-0700.

Too Many Cooks, Join Wild Goose Creative’s monthly, family-friendly program about food. This month, learn about the Bavarian-style pretzels made by local bakers Brezel Pretzel. $5, 7-9 p.m. Wild Goose Creative, 2491 Summit St., Old North. 614-859-9453, wildgoosecreative.com

I need chemotherapy. And I need you. Beau has leukemia. It’s a disease no child should ever have to endure. The harsh reality is while other children are enjoying the holidays, Beau will be battling his cancer. You can help us win Beau’s battle, and thousands more.

Give to Nationwide Children’s Hospital this holiday season. Every gift, of any amount, matters. Every gift stays here to make a difference in the lives of children in our community. Children like Beau.

Ν Ι Ν Ε Τ Ι Ε Τ Η

Sunday, November 11, 2012 Avenue Avenue of of Trees Trees and and Wreaths Wreaths

Please give today: 1-866-317-KIDS NationwideChildrens.org

Unique Handcrated Items

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

CLASSES, CAMPS & ONGOING EVENTS CAPA presents Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”, A Columbus tradition for more than 30 years, NTC Productions returns with the national touring production of A Christmas Carol. Various dates and show times. $22-$32. Palace Theatre, 34 W. Broad St., Downtown. 614-469-0939. ticketmaster.com Celebrate the Holidays with Music!, Come discover how your infant, toddler, and preschooler learns and grows through musical play and interaction during this joy-filled 4 week Holiday season, Nov. 12–Dec. 15. Explore rhythm instruments, movement, finger puppets, singing games, and much more during this Kodaly based music program for only $48. Classes meet 9 a.m.–12 noon and 5–7:30 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Classes will meet at 9 locations across the city to serve you! For more locations, information, and to register, call WeJoySing at 614-868-0107 or visit wejoysing. com. MENTION CP CALENDAR AND RECEIVE 10% OFF. Central Ohio Youth Ballet’s The Nutcracker, The Central Ohio Youth Ballet presents a holiday classic for the whole family. The Nutcracker is a fascinating tale about dreams, family and overcoming obstacles. Various dates and show times. $10-$20. Midland Theatre, 36 N. Park Pl., 740-345-5483. midlandtheatre.org Clay Time for Kids at Clayspace, Clayspace artists will present a new project every week that kids will love! We’ll make toad houses, piggy banks, masks, and more! Come inside and play with clay! Call to reserve a spot. Ages 7 and up. Fridays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $30. Clayspace, 831 S. Front St., Brewery District. 614-449-8144. clayspace831.com FREE! Fairfield County Civil War 150 Alliance Passport Program for Fairfield County Students, In this free hands-on program for students, participants complete activities related to the Civil War, have their “passports” stamped and earn prizes. Through the end of 2012. Fairfield County, 740-654-5929. civilwarfairfieldcountyohio.org/ cwpassport.php Fall/Winter Swim Team Tryouts, The Greater

Columbus Swim Team of Ohio (GCSTO) will hold a second round of tryouts this fall for athletes interested in becoming a part of the team this season. Athletes between the ages of 6 and 14 are welcomed to take advantage of this late fall tryout designed to open the team’s doors to those athletes whose fall sports participation is at an end or coming to an end. There are around 15 practice positions still available on the team. Anyone interested in attending a 2-week trial period with the team may contact GCSTO head coach, Steve Nye, at 614-478-5445 or stevenye@sbcglobal.net for more information on how to get started with this trial period. More information about the team is available at gcsto.com. Fit Jr. Personal Training, Fitness training program designed just for young children, developing motor and social skills. B.O.S.S. Fitness Personal Training Studio, 1079 N. High St., Short North. 614-8052698. FREE! Hearing Screenings, Free Hearing Screenings provided as a courtesy of Huntington Bank. Must be at least 5 years of age. Call to schedule an appointment. 1-4 p.m. Columbus Speech & Hearing Center, 510 E. North Broadway St., Clintonville. 614-261-5417. columbusspeech.org LEGO Castle Adventure, Medieval times come alive LEGO style. This fun exhibition lets you image and build castles using LEGO bricks. Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 12 noon-6 p.m. Through Jan. 6. Adults $16.95. Seniors $15.95. Children 2-12 $11.95. COSI Columbus, 333 W. Broad St., Downtown. 614-228-2674. Musikgarten Fall Classes, Early Childhood Music and Movement Classes, with parental participation, for children up to age 5 at the Hilliard Community Music School. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.-1:40 p.m. $125-$195. Hilliard Community Music School, 4115 Main St., Hilliard. 614-6204117. erinsmusicstudio.com/registration Painting Fun!, Kiddos can find their inner artist with painting on Friday mornings. There is an array of paints, brushes and paper and encourages kiddos to create, mix and explore colors. Ages 6

months to 6 years. 10-11 a.m. Firefly Play Cafe, 4822 N. High St., Clintonville. 614-230-2375. fireflyplaycafe.com

nov. 2012

Pony Rides, Pony Rides every Sunday for kids ages 2-12. Friendly ponies and country setting for the whole family to enjoy. Wear sturdy shoes and dress in layers. We’re doing this every Sunday through New Year’s and decorating our Red Barn for each season. Helmets provided. 12 noon-4 p.m. $8. Bookmark Farms, 8824 Morse Rd. SW, 740-9642601. bookmarkfarms.com

MONDAY 12

Swimming Technique Camps, GCSTO will sponsor a wide variety of stroke specific swimming technique camps throughout this fall at the Columbus Academy in Gahanna. Included are camps for all 4 competitive strokes and one specifically for starts, turns & finishes. Camps are offered in 2- and 4-hour sessions and are all a part of the “Greater Columbus Advanced Technique Stroke Analysis Camp Series” offered year around by GCSTO. The camp director is Steve Nye, head coach of GCSTO. You may call 614-478-5445 or e-mail coach Nye at stevenye@sbcglobal.net for additional information and applications. You may also visit gcsto.com on the web.

“Mom and Me” Paint Pottery, Our project was inspired by the London Olympics. We will make hand print Olympic torches and also have an Olympic-themed paper craft and snack. Please RSVP by phone or on our events page on Facebook. Ages 2 to 6 and siblings. 10-11:30 a.m. $7 program fee plus the cost of the ceramic item your choose for your project.. Marcy’s Clayground, 9842 Brewster Ln., Powell. 614-932-3000. marcysclayground.com

Teen Time Fridays, Bring your ideas & your friends to Clayspace and be creative with clay. Clayspace artists are on hand to provide inspiration and instruction. We will have new ideas every week or help you with your original creations. A great way to start the weekend! Call to reserve a spot. 4-6 p.m. $35. Clayspace, 831 S. Front St., Brewery District. 614-449-8144. clayspace831.com Wild Gosling Workshops, Hands-on art workshops for preschoolers (ages 3-6) and their grownups. This six week program offers a series of two-day workshops that provide the opportunity to make art at a variety of sensory art stations; each station explores a common theme. The workshops are held Mondays and Tuesdays from 10-11:30 a.m. over the course of six weeks, which are divided into three two-week thematic “units. Each unit is $25, and you register for two consecutive Mondays or two consecutive Tuesdays. You may register for one, two, or all three workshop units. Learn more at wildgoosecreative.com/kids

FREE! Mother-Daughter Book Club, Girls in grades 4-6 and their mothers (or grandmothers!) are invited to join us and talk books. Selected title: “The Mysterious Howling” by Maryrose Wood. 7-8 p.m. Northwest Library, 2280 Hard Road, Worthington. 614-807-2626. worthingtonlibraries.org/calendar FREE! Music & Movement, Ages 2-5 years. 1-1:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951. FREE! Raising a Son with Autism: A Father’s Story, Book reading and Q&A event by local author, Rick Schostek. Proceeds of book sales to benefit Dublin Schools’ Power Plus program. 7 p.m., Dublin Coffman High School auditorium, 6780 Coffman Road, Dublin.

Story and Swim Time, Join us at every Monday at 9:30 a.m. in the Community Room for story time. Afterwards, stay and enjoy the leisure pool for more fun in the water. No registration necessary; just show up and have fun. 9:30-11 a.m. Free for Members, Day Pass for Non-Members. Delaware Community Center YMCA, 1121 South Houk Road, Delaware. 740-203-3051. ymcacolumbus.org/Delaware

TUESDAY 13 FREE! Fairy House Building, We’ll go outside and build all-natural fairy houses using a supply of natural materials: bark, dried flowers, leaves, pine cones, seed pods, shells and more. Feel free to bring some of your own natural building materials from home as well. This is a family program - one adult must accompany each family group. Registration is required and begins Sept. 29. 7 p.m. Lane Road Library, 1945 Lane Road, Upper Arlington. 614-459-0273. FREE! Parent-Child Book Discussion, Library instructors lead a discussion of the selected title to teach critical thinking and appreciation for literature. This month we will read Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell. Copies of the book will be available to the first 10 families to enroll. Additional families to secure their own copy of the book are welcome to attend. For grades 4-6. 7 p.m. Upper Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington. 614-486-9621. FREE! Preschool Story Time, Ages 3-5. 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951. FREE! Preschoolers: Turkey Talk, Learn about wild turkeys through craft and song, and search for a

The Gardner School is an award-winning academically focused preschool for ages 6 weeks to Private Kindergarten. Here, each child’s day includes personal attention, gentle guidance and developmentally appropriate activities, as well as a healthy dose of fun and laughter. For more information, please visit our website at www. TheGardnerSchool.com or call us to schedule your personal tour.

ENROLL NOW FOR FALL... SPACE IS LIMITED!

www.TheGardnerSchool.com 48

| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

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The Gardner School of Dublin 6145 Emerald Parkway Dublin, OH 43016 Phone: (614) 717-9677

turkey surprise. Meet at Cedar Ridge Lodge. 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Battelle-Darby Creek Metro Park, 1775 Darby Creek Dr., Galloway. 614-891-0700. FREE! Reuse It: Magazine Rolls, Use old magazines to create cool rolls for lanyards, zipper pulls, keychains and necklaces. No registration required. Grades 4-6. 3-4 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951. FREE! Tales for Toddlers, Ages 1836 months. 10:15-10:45 a.m. and 11-11:30 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

WEDNESDAY 14 FREE! Bookworms Book Club, Ages 4-6 are invited to a book club just for pre-readers. Simply read the selected picture book in advance and come to each meeting ready to talk, sing and have fun! Selected title: “Strega Nona” by Tomie DePaola. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Northwest Library, 2280 Hard Road, Worthington. 614-807-2626. worthingtonlibraries.org/calendar FREE! Child Check, The YMCA Early Childhood Resource Network offers FREE developmental screenings for children ages 1 month to 5 years. These screenings are in the areas of gross motor, fine motor, speech and language, and personal/social skills. A hearing screening is also provided and a vision screening for children over 3 years. ECRN + follows up with families who may need assistance finding resources in the community. 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. YMCA, 3500 1st Ave., Grove City. 614-543-9000 ext. 218. ymcacolumbus.org FREE! Family Story Time, Ages 2-5 years. 6:30-7 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951. Parent’s Night Out, Parents get a night out and the kids have fun and go wild at the Y! We provide a healthy dinner, and then kids get to enjoy swimming,

rock wall, basketball, dodgeball and a movie. Registration necessary. Space is limited, so register early. 4:30-8:30 p.m. First Child - Member $15, Non $20, Each Additional Child - Member $10, Non $15). Delaware Community Center YMCA, 1121 South Houk Road, Delaware. 740-203-3051. ymcacolumbus.org/delaware FREE! Preschoolers: Holiday Feasting, Join the Beech-Tree puppets as they get ready to celebrate Thanksgiving. Meet at Beech Maple Lodge. 10 a.m. Blacklick Woods Metro Park, 6975 E. Livingston Ave., Reynoldsburg. 614-891-0700.

Academy’s Average AP Exam Score

THURSDAY 15 FREE! Baby Games, Ages 0-18 months. 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951. FREE! Preschoolers: Turkey Time, Search for our flock of gobblers. Meet a nature center. 10 a.m. Blendon Woods Metro Park, 4265 E. DublinGranville Rd., Westerville. 614-8910700. FREE! Thanksgiving Crafts, Kids of all ages can make some fun holiday table decorations to display at your family’s Thanksgiving feast. No registration required. Ages 2 and up. 4 p.m. Lane Road Library, 1945 Lane Road, Upper Arlington. 614-4590273.

FRIDAY 16 FREE! 14th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration, Easton’s 14th annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration will kick off this season’s holiday magic. Enjoy the anticipation of the season as the festivities begin with the grand parade, arrival of Santa Claus and the lighting of the 50-foot Holiday Tree. Make sure to capture that special moment while your child visits with Santa Claus and a variety of other special guests and activities. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Easton Town Center, 160 Easton Town Center, Easton. 614-416-7000.

Early Childhood Learning Series These FREE seminars by leading educators are open to the public. October 31, 2012 Changing Nature of Childhood Dan Vorenberg, Head of Lower School/Assistant Headmaster November 14, 2012 Supporting Your Beginning Reader Brelle Farrenkopf, Reading Specialist January 9, 2013 Developing Independence and Self-Help Skills in Young Children Lisa Spolter, Pre-Kindergarten Coordinator January 22, 2013 Tech Time with Your Child Julie Simmons, First Grade Teacher February 5, 2013 Physical Development Through Movement and Play JoAnne Adams, Physical Education Department Chair All sessions will begin at 9:15 a.m. in Academy Hall. To RSVP, call 614-509-2220.

During the spring of 2012, Columbus Academy students took a combined 400 Advanced Placement Exams in over 20 different subject areas. The average score on those exams was 4.1 on a 5-point scale and even higher in topics such as calculus, physics and computer science. Eighty-seven of our students earned the designation of AP Scholar by receiving grades of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams. Out of the 400 total exams taken by Academy students, 294 (73.5 percent) were awarded scores of 4 or 5. By taking over four AP Exams by graduation, the average Columbus Academy student earns a semester of college credit before even matriculating. To learn more about how we are preparing our students to succeed – academically, socially and ethically – in college and beyond, please call our Admissions Office at 614-509-2220 to schedule a personal tour. Our 231-acre campus is located just a few minutes northeast of Columbus at 4300 Cherry Bottom Road, Gahanna 43230. Open House for All Grades (PreK-12) Sunday, December 2, 2012, 2:00-4:00 p.m. For more details, please call 614-509-2220. Academy’s TeacherTalk Video Series To learn more about Columbus Academy’s innovative curriculum and culture, or to simply take a glimpse inside our classrooms, please visit http://tiny.cc/AcademyTeacherVideos.

www.columbusacademy.org

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

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nov. 2012 FREE! Creature Feature: Oh, Deer!, Come learn the natural history of the White-tailed Deer, including what factors caused it to become extirpated and how it made a comeback. You’ll learn how every part of the deer can be utilized, and you’ll have a chance to sample some venison. Ages 10+. 7-9 p.m. Deer Haven Preserve, 4183 Liberty Rd., Delaware. 740-524-8600, ext. 3. preservationparks.com FREE! Family Night, Each week open gyms are offered to Preschool through Middle School age kids and their families with age appropriate equipment. An art craft will be available in the Art Room as well as a room for family board games. This program is free to anyone and pre-registration is not necessary. Come see our beautiful building and enjoy some quality family time with Worthington Parks and Recreation. All children must be accompanied by an adult and vice versa. 6:30-9 p.m. Worthington Community Center, 345 E Wilson Bridge Rd, Worthington. 614-436-2743. FREE! High School Book Club, Upper Arlington High School students: Join us for a lively discussion of classic and contemporary literature. Stop by the school’s learning center to pick up a copy of this month’s title. 3 p.m. Upper Arlington High School, 1650 Ridgeview Rd., Upper Arlington. 614-486-9621.

Whi te Christmas

Tuesday, Nov. 20 to Sunday, Nov. 25 — It’s a new musical based on the classic movie “White Christmas,” and it’s coming to the Ohio Theatre. The family-friendly show features favorite holiday songs and plenty of dancing and entertainment. There will be eight show times during the week of Thanksgiving, and ticket prices begin at $30 per person. View show times and purchase tickets on ticketmaster.com or by visiting the CAPA box office downtown at 39 E. State St. FREE! Sing-A-Story, Join our inhouse musician Brian Griffin and his guitar for a morning of stories and songs. No registration is required. 10:30 a.m. Miller Park Branch Library, 1901 Arlington Ave, Upper Arlington. 614-488-5710.

SATURDAY 17 8th Annual Craftin’ Outlaws Alternative Craft Fair, Modern handmade goods from more than 50 regional

vendors will be available for sale, including clothing, jewelry, paintings, posters, ceramics, knitted accessories, stuffed animals, soap, stationery, skateboards and home decor. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. The Gateway Film Center, 1550 N. High St., Campus. 614-5452255. craftinoutlaws.com FREE! Angry Birds Party, The game comes to life! See if you can build indestructible towers or knock them down. For grades K-6. 2-3 p.m. Northwest Library, 2280 Hard

Road, Worthington. 614-807-2626. worthingtonlibraries.org/calendar CFA-Royal Canin World Championship Cat Show, Come see 1,000 pedigreed and random bred cats from around the world compete for the title of Best in Show. This is the largest cat show that Columbus has ever seen and an event you don’t want to miss. Browse dozens of vendors, visit the Education Ring or watch the amazing Feline Agility competition. There will be pedigreed kittens and cats available,

as well as shelter cats for adoption. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. $6; children $3. Greater Columbus Convention Center, 400 N. High St., Columbus. 585-455-7089. cfablog.org Family Fun, Kids create turkeys out of pinecones. Free with admission. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free with $6-$11 admission. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E. Broad St., East Side. 614-715-8000. fpconservatory.org FREE! Geocache for Habitat, Follow geocaching clues to find different animal habitats as you explore two miles of rugged trails. Share your finds with fellow explorers back at the start point. Meet at Barnebey-Hambleton Picnic Area. 2 p.m. Clear Creek Metro Park, 185 Clear Creek Road, Rockbridge. 614-891-0700. FREE! Preschoolers: Turkey Time, Search for our flock of gobblers. Meet a nature center. 10 a.m. Blendon Woods Metro Park, 4265 E. DublinGranville Rd., Westerville. 614-8910700. FREE! Saturday Story Stomp, Ages 2-5 years. 11-11:30 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 FREE! Tween Writing Workshop, Sarah Magill leads this writing workshop just in time for the holidays. Students will write a story based upon the prompt, “A funny thing happened on the way to Thanksgiving dinner...” This is a two part workshop; participants must be able to attend both dates. Registration is required and begins Oct. 27. Grades 5-7. 2-4 p.m. Upper Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington. 614-486-9621. FREE! Turkey Tales, Celebrate the season with a Thanksgiving-themed storytime! The whole family will enjoy books, songs, rhymes and a special holiday craft. 10-11 a.m. Worthington Park Library, 1389 Worthington Centre Dr., Worthington. 614-807-2626. worthingtonlibraries.org/calendar

SUNDAY 18 2012 Columbus Fall Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show, Featuring local handmade talent in the areas of fine arts and crafts. Up to 200 artists and crafters will be selling their original handmade items. A portion of proceeds will benefit Columbus Ohio’s Pets Without Parents, a non-profit,

no-kill, all-breed shelter for dogs and cats. 1:30-6:30 p.m. $3, children under 12 free. The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral , 555 N. High St., Arena District. 440-227-8794. avantgardeshows.com CFA-Royal Canin World Championship Cat Show, Come see 1,000 pedigreed and random bred cats from around the world compete for the title of Best in Show. This is the largest cat show that Columbus has ever seen and an event you don’t want to miss. Browse dozens of vendors, visit the Education Ring or watch the amazing Feline Agility competition. There will be pedigreed kittens and cats available, as well as shelter cats for adoption. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. $6; children $3. Greater Columbus Convention Center, 400 N. High St., Columbus. 585-455-7089. cfablog.org FREE! Family Craft Workshop, Create holiday gifts for family and friends. Materials provided. Meet at Innis House. 2-4 p.m. Inniswood Metro Gardens, 940 S. Hempstead Rd., Westerville. 614-891-0700. Family Fun, Kids create thankful tree crafts with leaves. Free with admission. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free with $6-$11 admission. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E. Broad St., East Side. 614715-8000. fpconservatory.org FREE! Frosty Campfire, Stay warm around the campfire and enjoy songs and stories about animals. Bring chairs and blankets, cocoa and food to roast. Meet at Cherry Ridge Program Area. 2 p.m. Blendon Woods Metro Park, 4265 E. Dublin-Granville Rd., Westerville. 614-891-0700. Native Harvest, Join us for what is becoming a Preservation Parks Thanksgiving tradition. We’ll gather around the table and sample foods that the Wampanoag Indians and the Pilgrims ate during their week-long feast. Participants also will learn the truth behind the myths and stories surrounding the first “Thanksgiving.” Register by November 11. Ages 7+. 4-6 p.m. $3 per person. Deer Haven Preserve, 4183 Liberty Rd., Delaware. 740-524-8600, ext. 3. preservationparks.com FREE! Turkeys, Traditions and Thanksgiving, Learn about some of the customs of Thanksgiving, including butchering the turkey and the uses of corn, pumpkins and other foods. 1-3 p.m. Slate Run Living Historical Farm, 1375 State Route 674 N., Canal Winchester. 614-891-0700.

MONDAY 19 FREE! Angry Birds Party, The game comes to life! See if you can build indestructible towers or knock them down. For grades K-6. 7-8 p.m.

Old Worthington Library, 820 High St., Worthington. 614-807-2626. worthingtonlibraries.org/calendar FREE! Music & Movement, Ages 2-5 years. 1-1:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951. Story and Swim Time, Join us at every Monday at 9:30 a.m. in the Community Room for story time. Afterwards, stay and enjoy the leisure pool for more fun in the water. No registration necessary; just show up and have fun. 9:30-11 a.m. Free for Members, Day Pass for Non-Members. Delaware Community Center YMCA, 1121 South Houk Road, Delaware. 740-203-3051. ymcacolumbus.org/delaware FREE! Tail Wagging Tutors, Practice reading with some Tail Wagging Tutors. Trained therapy dogs make very patient listeners. For grades K-5. 7 p.m. Upper Arlington Public Library, 1945 Lane Rd., Upper Arlington. 614-486-9621.

for family enjoyment. It features a zero depth entry, water toys, a spiral slide, a rapid rotation vortex and a lazy river. All children must be accompanied by an adult and vice versa. See you there! 5-8 p.m. $3, Free for Members and Children 2 and under. Worthington Community Center, 345 E Wilson Bridge Rd, Worthington. 614-436-2743. FREE! Tales for Toddlers, Ages 1836 months. 10:15-10:45 a.m. and 11-11:30 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

WEDNESDAY 21 Family Fun: Sweet Turkeys, Story time at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.; craft available 11 a.m.-2 p.m., while supplies last. Listen to a story about the turkey that got away then create a turkey shaped cookie for a sweet treat. Supplies are available on a first come, first served basis. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $3 per treat with admission. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E. Broad St., East Side. 614-715-8000. fpconservatory.org

Turn pot and pan handles toward the back of the stove.

Use the back burners on the stove whenever you can.

Keep kids and pets out from underfoot when cooking.

Do you LOVE ponies?

Use caution when taking food out of a microwave. It can be hotter than expected.

Join In the Winter Fun at Liberty Farm!

Kids! Pick up your toys so no one trips and falls.

Clear leaves, ice, and snow from driveways and walkways.

TUESDAY 20 FREE! Preschool Story Time, Ages 3-5. 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951. Family Fun Swims, Come enjoy Worthington’s leisure pool, designed

FREE! Family Story Time, Ages 2-5 years. 6:30-7 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

Weekly Public Riding Lessons and Winter Break Pony Camp Make sure to like us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/LibertyHorseFarm

Campers ages 6 -15 welcome Offering Daily Rates for Pony Camp over winter Break with mulitple day discounts. See our facebook or email us for details!

Year Round Riding Lessons for Riders of all ages and ability levels. 2620 Fisher Rd.Columbus, OH 43204 [Phone]: 614-279-0346 www.libertyhorsefarm.com

[email]: info@libertyhorsefarm.com

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

PARENTS CLUBS AND SUPPORT GROUPS

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.

Mocha Moms of Greater Columbus, Ohio A national support group for mothers of color who have chosen not to work full-time, or who have chosen alternative, less-demanding career 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 614-491-3232. 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.

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 Lewis Center Southeast A non-profit support group for stay-at-home moms. Actively seeking new members who live south of Orange Rd., east of S. Old State Rd., and north of Lazelle Rd. For membership information contact Sherry at Moms_Club_Membership@ yahoo.com or go to http://momscluboflewiscenter.com

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 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 Pickerington North Support group for stay-athome moms. Serves Pickerington (North of Refugee Rd.), Reynoldsburg and Pataskala. Email momclubpn@yahoo.com for more info.

MOMS Club of Gahanna Support group for stay-athome moms. Also serves Blacklick and parts of New Albany. Contact Shannon at 614-759-5097 or MOMSClubofGahanna@gmail. com.

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.

MOMS Club of Delaware A fun, social support group for stay-athome 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

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 momsclub-

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| November 2012 | columbusparent.com

Simply Science January 2-4

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 740-9367810 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 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 one Thursday evening each month, September through May (except December) from 7-9:15 pm at Northwest Bible Church, 6639 Scioto Darby Road. For more information, visit our website at nwbible.org/m2m or 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. “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. New Moms’ Group An opportunity for new mothers and their babies to meet others and share information. Meets from 1:302:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Elizabeth Blackwell Center, 3635 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus. Free. 614-566-4446. 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. 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 614571-2995. 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.

Merry & Bright Nights, Merry & Bright Nights offer a unique evening experience at the Conservatory. This week is all about the big game! Enjoy tailgate fare, buckeye candy crafts and a performance by The Buckeye Tailgaters Band at 7 p.m. 5-9 p.m. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E. Broad St., East Side. 614-7158000. fpconservatory.org

FRIDAY 23 Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Nashville Predators, 7 p.m. Starting at $15. Nationwide Arena, 200 W. Nationwide Blvd., Arena District. 800-NHL-COLS. bluejackets.com. SUBJECT TO LOCKOUT CANCELLATION. Family Fun: Gingerbread Friday, Create a house with graham crackers, frosting and candy. Supplies are available on a first come, first served basis. 12 noon-4 p.m. $3 per craft with admission. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E. Broad St., East Side. 614-715-8000. fpconservatory.org FREE! Holiday Lights! Parade, The flurry of activity is just beginning when the sun goes down, as Ohio’s premiere evening parade begins and warms the crowd with lighted entrants, including both community designed and professionally constructed floats, marching bands, equestrian entries, and a host of dazzling surprises. 6-9 p.m. Grandville St. and Mill St., 380 Granville St., Gahanna. 614-418-9114. visitgahanna.com

SATURDAY 24 Artie the Elf, Artie the Elf from the Arthritis Foundation visits with children. Free with admission. 2-3 p.m. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E. Broad St., East Side. 614-715-8000. fpconservatory.org Family Fun Swims, Come enjoy Worthington’s leisure pool, designed for family enjoyment. It features a zerodepth entry, water toys, a spiral slide, a rapid rotation vortex and a lazy river. All children must be accompanied by an adult and vice versa. 9 a.m.- 12 noon $3, Free for Members and Children 2 and under. Worthington Community Center, 345 E Wilson Bridge Rd, Worthington. 614-436-2743. HOOT Family Film Series, Join us for family-friendly activities followed by a collection of children’s short films and live music from The Shazzbots! The mission of HOOT is to present a monthly festival of films, music, and activities designed for Central Ohio families and children on the final Saturday of each month. All presentations in HOOT are “G” rated and admission is free with a suggested donation of

a canned good to benefit The Open Shelter. 10 a.m.-12 noon. Free with suggested canned good donation. The Gateway Film Center, 1550 N. High St., Campus. 614-247-4969. gatewayfilmcenter.com The New Albany Winter Farmers Market, The primary goal of our all volunteer run, ‘producer focused’ Farmers Market is to provide a venue that encourages the awareness and use of locally grown and produced goods that promote community health. 9 a.m.- noon. Church of the Resurrection Ministry Center, 6300 Dublin-Granville Road, New Albany. 614-390-2733. facebook.com/nafarmersmarket Parents’ PlayDate - An Evening Out!, You drop off the kids and enjoy and evening out on your own. Dinner, movie and activity included for each child. Pick your three-hour time block. Can pro-rate additional time if you need it. Please try to email or call ahead at least two days to book your spot. We staff to the number of signups received. 5:30-10 p.m. $35 per child, $15 for each additional. Piccadilly, 2501 E. Main St., Bexley. 614-7250204.

SUNDAY 25 FREE! Pioneer Arcade, Test your puzzle and game skills with old-time toys of a simple era. Meet at Nature Center. 1-3 p.m. Blacklick Woods Metro Park, 6975 E. Livingston Ave., Reynoldsburg. 614-891-0700. FREE! Tree Illumination, Join in the festivities at this traditional holiday event. Stroll the sidewalks of Downtown Worthington and enjoy musical entertainment, stop and visit with Santa in front of the Worthington Inn, enjoy food and beverages from the eateries while shops offer holiday snacks and exciting merchandise. Following the Open House make your way to the Southeast Village Green for the City of Worthington’s annual tree lighting program. 5:30 p.m. Free. Worthington Community Center, 345 E Wilson Bridge Rd, Worthington. 614-436-2743. worthington.org

MONDAY 26 FREE! Music & Movement, Ages 2-5 years. 1-1:30 p.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951. Story and Swim Time, Join us at every Monday at 9:30 a.m. in the Community Room for story time. Afterwards, stay and enjoy the leisure pool for more fun in the water. No registration necessary. 9:30-11 a.m. Free for Members, Day Pass for Non-Members. Delaware Community Center YMCA, 1121 South Houk Road, Delaware. 740-203-3051. ymcacolumbus.org/delaware

columbusparent.com | November 2012 |

TUESDAY 27

LOVE HORSES? Pony Rides - Sundays Noon- 4 p.m. Open thru New Year’s Holiday Horse Camp – Kids Ages 6+ Dec. 26-28 & Jan. 2-4 Riding Lessons – Children & Adults Year-round in our indoor arena

FREE! Book Buddies, Our popular summertime program Book Buddies now continues throughout the school year! Little buddies are paired up with local teens to practice their reading and other literacy activities. A variety of reading materials will be supplied. registration is required and begins two weeks prior to each program. Grades K-3. 7 p.m. Upper Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington. 614-486-9621. Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Dallas Stars, 7 p.m. Starting at $15. Nationwide Arena, 200 W. Nationwide Blvd., Arena District. 800-NHL-COLS. bluejackets.com. SUBJECT TO LOCKOUT CANCELLATION. FREE! Preschool Story Time, Ages 3-5. 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951.

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Merry & Bright Nights, Celebrate the holidays and enjoy unique evening experiences at the Conservatory. This week, campfire favorites and holiday treats will be offered at the Live-Fire Cooking Theater. Opera Columbus performs a mix of holiday classics at 7 p.m. 5-9 p.m. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E. Broad St., East Side. 614715-8000. fpconservatory.org Thurber House Young Writers’ Studio, Tired of writing about what you did during your summer vacation? Are you looking for something more challenging or a way to let your imagination run free? If so, then Young Writers’ Studio is the place for you. Join facilitator Robert Loss and explore new genres, expand your skills and have fun. You even get the opportunity to bring in your own work to share and receive feedback. Visit our website for more details. 6-8 p.m.

THURSDAY 29 FREE! Baby Games, Ages 0-18 months. 10:15-10:45 a.m. Grandview Heights Public Library, 1685 W. First Ave., Grandview. 614-486-2951. FREE! Homeschoolers: Critter Caretakers, Learn about the educational animals at Highbanks and how we care for them. Meet at nature center. 11 a.m. Highbanks Metro Parks, 9466 Columbus Pike, Powell. 614-891-0700. Story time!, Erica Carlson Children’s Entertainment will be performing her fantabulous story time for the kiddos! Erica brings wonderful stories, props and involves the kiddos for a captivating story adventure. 10:30-11 a.m. Firefly Play Cafe, 4822 N. High St., Clintonville. 614-230-2375. fireflyplaycafe.com

FRIDAY 30 Christmas at the Palace, Originated in 1982, this production traditionally includes a variety of community members in choirs, dance numbers, instrumental ensembles and lighthearted, yet touching, scenes of the season. Christmas at the Palace is a favorite holiday tradition for many families. Directed by Clare Cooke. 7:30-10 p.m. $22 & $17 adults, children 12 & under $12. Marion Palace Theatre, 276 W. Center St., 740-383-2101. marionpalace.org Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Los Angeles Kings, 7 p.m. Starting at $15. Nationwide Arena, 200 W. Nationwide Blvd., Arena District. 800-NHL-COLS. SUBJECT TO LOCKOUT CANCELLATION. FREE! Columbus Commons Holiday Fair, Columbus Commons is celebrating the holiday season amidst a wonderland of more than 120,000 holiday lights. Activities include trackless train rides, trolley rides, carousel rides, a petting zoo, and marshmallow roasting. Both evenings will end with a festival fireworks display. A holiday tent will host a Secret Santa Shop, visits with Santa and festive arts and crafts. A Downtown Illumination lighting ceremony will also take place Friday evening. 4-9 p.m. Columbus Commons, 160 S. High St., Downtown. 614-645-5133. The Columbus Symphony presents Holiday Pops, 8 p.m. $25 and up. Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St., Downtown. 614-228-8600. ticketmaster. com Family Friday Night, COSI offers extended hours and price reduced

Photo by Alysia Burton

nov. 2012

$15. The Thurber Center, 91 Jefferson Ave., Downtown. 614-464-1032 ext. 16. thurberhouse.org/young-writersstudio-2012.html

Famil y Friday Night

Friday, Nov. 30 — End November with a bang at COSI Columbus. On the last Friday of the month, the interactive science center stays open until 9 p.m. so families can explore the various hands-on exhibitions. There’s also a reduced admission fee of $9.95 per person beginning at 5 p.m. Plus, you can also check out an Extreme Screen movie. Learn more at cosi.org. admission to families so you can visit, learn, and play late! General admission includes all of COSI’s permanent exhibitions, plus see a film on COSI’s Giant Screen. 5-9 p.m. $9.95. COSI Columbus, 333 W. Broad St., Downtown. 614-228-2674. cosi.org FREE! Preschoolers: Deer Grandparents, Bring a grandparent and learn about Ohio’s white-tailed deer through song, story and craft. Meet at Cedar Ridge Lodge. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Battelle-Darby Creek Metro Park, 1775 Darby Creek Dr., 614-8910700. Spectrum Storytime, This monthly storytime is designed for young children on the Autism Spectrum, and/ or children with sensory processing sensitivities. We will have stories, songs and activities to encourage literacy and positive associations with reading and the library. Regis-

tration is required and is limited to 8 children and their caregiver(s), and must be made either in-person or by phone. This program is designed for children with a developmental stage of 3-5 years old; children aged 10 and under are welcome. 4 p.m. Free. Upper Arlington Public Library, 2800 Tremont Rd., Upper Arlington. 614-486-9621. Winterfair, A holiday artists’ market where fairgoers will find unique and beautiful handcrafted articles for the home, office or gift giving. Artists from across the nation will be showcasing their traditional and contemporary crafts, including ceramics, wood, glass, painting, metal, jewelry, photography, sculpture and more. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Adults $7, Children 12 and under free. Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave., North Side. 614-644-3247. ohiocraft.org

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