April 2022 | Southwest Ohio Parent

APRIL 2022

(FREE)

INSIDE

SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE A special section for children of all abilities

Unique Family Vacations

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Summer Camp Guide

contents

// APRIL 2022

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13 features

departments

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In Every Issue

Travel

06 07 08 10

32 Unique Family

7 Health Screenings Every Woman Should Have

Protect your health by catching potential issues before they become major problems.

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Special Needs Guide

Letter from the Editor Our Cover Kid Local Kids News & Notes

23 4 Big Benefits of Summer Camp for Kids with Special Needs

24 Sensory-friendly and Inclusive Experiences

26 Talking to Kids About Disabilities

Around Town 09 Little Foodies: 11

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16 Summer Camp Guide 29 Education Guide 34 Things to Do in

Hidden Gems: Nakama Studio

39 Fun & Wacky Calendar

the Love of Children

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Resources & Calendars

The Rootbeer Stand

30 Local Spotlight: For

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Vacations

April

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Publisher Mary Wynne Cox mary@ohparent.com

Associate Publisher + Creative Director + Advertising Katie Clark katie@ohparent.com

Editor Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@ohparent.com

Production Manager Karen Ring karen@ohparent.com

Good Vibes When it comes to inclusivity, there is a definite vibe shift going on.

It seems like everywhere I go, I’m noticing more restaurants, museums and places of business that are making a real effort to make sure that everyone feels welcome.

I’ll give you just one example. My family and I visited a local museum recently, and as my children played and moved around the exhibits, I noticed sensory-friendly resources placed strategically around for visitors who might need them. There were noise-canceling headphones for those who needed less sound distraction. There were fidgets and tactile objects available for kids who needed something to hold in their hand. There were signs pointing out designated quiet areas for those who needed a break from the crowds. It made my heart happy to know that the museum was looking out for all of their visitors — even the ones who might experience the world differently than others.

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Inclusivity is important, and in this month’s magazine, you’ll notice an exclusive Special Needs Guide. One of the articles in the section that I’m most excited about is our “Sensory-friendly and Inclusive Experience” article on page 24.

In it, you’ll find a range of local places that are leading the charge for change, and offering adapted experiences for people with autism and other special needs. Let it be one resource for finding places to visit this spring that everyone will enjoy.

Wishing you positive vibes this April!

Digital Publisher Wendy Hasser wendy@ohparent.com

Administration + Digital Mary Mueller mmueller@ohparent.com

Administration + Calendar Editor Brooke Litherland brooke@ohparent.com

Billing billing@ohparent.com

Contributing Writers Lindsay Conner, Rachael Dupree, Pam Freeman, Rebecca Matteson

Calendar of Events calendar@ohparent.com

SW Ohio Parent is published monthly. Copyright 2021 by Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary or services herein.

OUR COVER KID:

BROOKS

age // 7 years old my favorites COLOR FOOD SPORT ICE CREAM FLAVOR RESTAURANT SCHOOL SUBJECT BOOK TV SHOW MOVIE TOY CANDY

Blue Spaghetti Football Cookie dough with sprinkles!

Panda Express Writing Dog Man Ninja Kids Richie Rich Crazy Kart-Shift Milky Way

an interesting fact about me // I can do the "worm" dance move!

when I grow up //

I want to be a sports mascot!

COVER PHOTO BY:

Gabrielle Cheikh Photography gcphotography.com April 2022 I ohParent.com

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say cheese!

LOCAL kids

National Pet Day is on April 11, so we're celebrating kids with their animal friends and family members! Here are a few of our favorites.

Averie (7) and Meeka Tesla (5) and Thor

Emma (10) and Ollie

Hudson (6) and Meredith

Victor (3) with Tonca

Madalyn (6) and Dallas

Skyleigh (7) with Gizmo and Phoenix

Sawyer (7) and Boomer

Want to see your cute kids on this page?

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We're looking for photos of cute kids for the May issue of SW Ohio Parent!

Email your photos to editor@ohparent.com, and your photos might appear here!

LITTLE FOODIES

WORDS BY REBECCA MATTESON

The Rootbeer Stand Sharonville’s Root Beer Stand has a long history in this Cincinnati community. Home of the famous Timmy Dog and even more famous root beer, visitors will find family favorites like hamburgers, footlong chili-cheese hot dogs, pizza steak and more.

The famous root beer is served by the glass, in a gallon or mixed with ice cream for a perfect float. The root beer at The Root Beer Stand gets its distinctive taste from water that’s drawn from the property well and used to make the soda, which gives the root beer a flavor that sets it apart.

behind the counter, and now you’ll find the smiling faces of today’s young entrepreneurs.

The Root Beer Stand’s menu stays true to its original recipes, including the delicious take on Cincinnati chili. And behind the iconic orange building, there’s space to meet friends for a quick treat. Little ones can run around and play on the playset, as trains bustle by just feet away.

11566 Reading Rd, Sharonville therootbeerstand.com

A visit to The Root Beer Stand is a trip into nostalgia, as little has changed since the original owners operated this seasonal summertime restaurant. Holding true to early values, The Root Beer Stand prides itself in hiring first-time jobseeking teenagers through the summer. Carhops have been moved

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NEWS & Notes

Our monthly roundup of news you can use

Be Inclusive April is Autism Acceptance month, a month devoted to increasing awareness, support and inclusion for those on the autism spectrum and their families. In honor of this, we’ve included a special section in this issue beginning on page 22 that is packed with valuable information and a wide range of activities for children of all abilities.

Celebrate Easter

1 Billion THAT’S HOW MANY PEOPLE WORLDWIDE RECOGNIZE EARTH DAY EACH YEAR ON APRIL 22.

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DID YOU KNOW? The first Earth Day was organized by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson on April 22, 1970, to raise awareness of environmental issues and their impact on our planet.

Easter celebrations are back in full swing this year. From breakfast with the bunny to unique egg hunts to a local version of the presidential egg roll, there are fun events for every age group. We’ve got a number of great options in our event calendar on page 34 of this issue and even more online for both Dayton (ohparent.com/dayton-egghunts) and Cincinnati (ohparent.com/cincinnatiegg-hunts).

HIDDEN GEMS

WORDS BY REBECCA MATTESON

Nakama Studio Nakama, meaning “friend that’s like family,” welcomes everyone into a studio space with educational goals focused on family and supporting others. With a plethora of classes, events and flea markets, Nakama Studio prides itself on community inclusion and education through new experiences.

Located in Batavia, the newly opened studio became a passion for local mama and one-woman-show, Julie Martin. Julie’s devotion to showcasing other makers and talents is unmatched; several classes offered at Nakama bring in a diverse group of teachers and artists.

Nakama Studio offers weeklong camps for ages 5+, including LEGO, Grow a Garden, Fake n’ Bake, World of Insects and others.

And classes don’t stop with just the kiddos. Nakama encourages the community to drop in for one-time or consecutive classes.

Monthly markets provide a space for local vendors — including kids — to showcase their art and products. With space for up to six children’s booths, your budding entrepreneur is welcome at Nakama. If your kiddo has a talent for polymer clay jewelry, making seed paper or art of any kind, consider a booth at the Batavia Makers Mart, with no booth fees for kids under 18 years old.

Julie’s Nakama Studio philosophy of “a safe space to learn and grow” started with her desire to bring together adults, kids and families.

With a degree in nutrition and a love for creating, Julie’s spark grew while supporting other moms with handmade breast milk and resin jewelry. Her pieces are available for purchase anytime in the studio shop, or take a resin jewelry class for a hands-on way to create your own resin pieces.

600 Kilgore Ave., Batavia nakamastudio.org

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WORDS BY LINDSAY CONNER

Health Screenings

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD HAVE PROTECT YOUR HEALTH BY CATCHING POTENTIAL ISSUES BEFORE THEY BECOME MAJOR PROBLEMS.

Scheduling routine health screenings — which can detect potential problems early — is an important part of keeping yourself healthy.

From mammograms and cholesterol screenings to pap smears and bone density scans, women can take charge of their health by getting checked at the right times.

“Screening is done for prevention,” explains Louito Edje, MD, associate dean of Graduate Medical Education at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. When a patient has no evidence of disease, doctors use primary prevention to prevent disease from occurring. “Secondary prevention is used to decrease the effect of a disease that has already been diagnosed, and tertiary prevention can lessen the effects of an ongoing illness.”

age 40. “For those at high risk, either due to genetics, previous personal history of breast cancer, dense breasts, or who are diagnosed prior to age 50, supplemental screening with a contrast-enhanced MRI is recommended,” Dr. Edje says. The American Cancer Society pushes the timeline back a bit, asking to get their first mammogram by age 45. By contrast, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPTF) recommends no mammograms for women in their forties, but every other year between ages 50 and 74.

Confused yet? To sort out your risk level, always discuss your family history with a primary care physician. A breast exam can further determine if breasts may be dense. “We advise against wearing deodorant or powder for the mammogram visit itself,” Dr. Edje says. “If a patient has symptoms of a nipple discharge or mass, patients should make an appointment with their physicians regardless of age. An ultrasound or biopsy may be used to evaluate the breast.”

CHOLESTEROL SCREENINGS MAMMOGRAMS Do you know if you are at average or high risk for breast cancer? The American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imaging set guidelines depending on a woman’s risk level. Women with an average risk should start receiving annual screening mammography starting at

The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends getting an initial cholesterol screening between ages 9 and 11, then every five years after that. Women ages 55 to 65 (and men 45 to 65) should get checked every one to two years. “If the tests are abnormal or if a patient has risk factors for cardiovascular disease such as diabetes or obesity, those tests may be needed more frequently,” Dr. Edje says.

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Your PCP can order the blood test, called a lipid panel, to check for several kinds of cholesterol.

Here’s a breakdown: Total cholesterol is the sum of the cholesterol in your blood.

LDL is the low density lipoprotein which can cause fatty deposits in arteries.

HDL is the high density lipoprotein which carries the LDL out of the blood. (The more HDL, the better!)

Triglycerides are the leftover, unused calories the body stores in fat cells.

PAP SME ARS The USPSTF recommends that women between ages 21 and 29 have cervical cancer screening every 3 years by PAP smear.

Women ages 30 to 65 have a choice to have cervical screening which only examines the cervical cells every 3 years; a check for high-risk papillomavirus testing alone every 5 years; or check both every 5 years. Both methods can be done during a pelvic exam. No screening is recommended after age 65 if the patient is not high risk for cervical cancer or for women with prior history of a total hysterectomy.

BONE DENSITY TESTING Bone density testing uses X-rays to help determine if a woman has a risk of breaking a bone — specifically at the wrist, hip or vertebrae. It determines if the structure of the bone is more fragile than it should be. “There are a variety of testing procedures, but the gold standard is to check the density at the hip and the lumbar spine,” Dr. Edje says. “Testing at the wrist is less accurate.”

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The bone density test, also called a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan, rates bone using a T-score. A low T-score is a sign of osteopenia or weakening of the bone, and a very low score can indicate osteoporosis and a higher risk of fracture. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the USPSTF and the National Osteoporosis Foundation all agree that DEXA scans should be started at age 65 in women with no risk factors

COLOREC TAL CANCER, HYPERTENSION AN D ME NTAL H E A LT H SCREENINGS There are many other screenings important to women, from colorectal cancer screenings to blood pressure checks and mental health surveys. “One of the most important foundations for excellent preventive care is a strong relationship with a primary care physician or allied health professional who can help navigate what is needed,” Dr. Edje says. “Additionally, there are some useful well-vetted screening apps which can help individuals determine what may be considered for their age.” The USPSTF’s app asks patients to enter their age, height, weight, and smoking status and then recommends a range of screenings, though this tool is not meant to replace a physician’s advice for specific patient needs.

2022 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE DAY CAMPS Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Cincinnati The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Cincinnati is an exciting place for your child to be this summer. Our actionpacked activities inspire creativity, build character, and provide academic enrichment. Register at one of our Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky locations to make friends, learn new things, and just have fun!

Dates: Varies by location, generally June 6—July 29, 2022 • Hours: varies by location, generally 8:30-4p • Ages: 5-18 600 Dalton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45203, Contact: Maggie Silverstein, Email: msilverstein@bgcgc.org, bgcgc.org/ memberships/

Camp-A-Palooza at Kids First Sports Center CAMP-A-PALOOZA is Greater Cincinnati’s most talked about summer camp experience! Why? Four words: Kids First Sports Center…108,000 square feet of kids sports heaven! Every day is a themed, non–stop, in and outdoor adventure. From morning drop–off to evening pick–up, you’ll experience crafts, talent shows, water slides, sports instruction, science experiments, agricultural projects & more!

Dates: May 31- August 19, 2022 • Hours: Times: 9am-4pm weekdays Extended Hours: 7:00-9:00 am "Wake-Up" Session $10 per week/ $5 per day (Includes AM Snack at 7:45am) 4:00-6:00 pm "Wind-Down" Session $10 per week/ $5 per day (Includes PM Snack at 5:00pm) • Ages: Grades K thru 7th grade (Child must be eligible for Kindergarten in Fall 2022) 7900 East Kemper Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Julie Halusek, Email: info@ kidfirstsports.com, Phone: (513) 489-7575, kidsfirstsports.com/camps-events/ camp-a-palooza-camps

Camp Art Academy At Camp Art Academy, children receive an award-winning arts education while exploring their creativity and making new friends within a diverse and inclusive community. Focused on balancing technical instruction with freedom of self-expression, kids learn to embrace their curiosity and individuality as they develop essential artistic skills and techniques with lots of fun! This year at Camp Art Academy we'll be taking a trip around the world! Explore different continents by creating your own artwork inspired by cultures, art, food, and more from around the world.

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Dates: Week 1 | June 6-10 | North America Week 2 | June 13-17 | South America Week 3 | June 20-24 | Europe Week 4 | July 11-15 | Africa Week 5 | July 18-22 | Asia Week 6 | July 25-29 | Australia • Hours: Half Day Monday - Friday, 9:00 am - 12:15 pm OR from 1:15 pm to 4:30 pm; Full Day session meets Monday - Friday from 9:00 am - 4:30 pm • Ages: 5-12

students in Ohio received instruction in all 20 comprehensive sex education topics. The Ohio Revised code does not include any requirement for sex education to be medically accurate or comprehensive. In addition, it does not require important topics like consent or gender identity be taught. Camp MEE fills this need by providing campers with factual information in a fun setting.

1212 Jackson Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Email: commed@ artacademy.edu, Phone: (513) 562-8762, artacademy.edu/com-ed/ summer-art-camp/summer-art-camp.php

Dates: Dayton – June 13 – 17, Cincinnati – July 18-22 • Hours: 8 am – 5 pm

Camp at the J Presenting Camp at the J—voted Cincinnati’s Best Day Camp in the 2020 Best of Parenting poll! From swimming and archery, to arts & crafts, camp values and color wars, and much more, kids will create memories and form friendships to last a lifetime. Give your child a summer to remember at Camp at the J! Flexible weekly options are available.

Dates: June 13 - August 12 • Hours: 9:30am - 3:30pm *Extended Care Available • Grades: K - 10 8485 Ridge Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45236, Contact: Lauren Glynn, Phone: 513.722.7245, Email: daycamp@mayersonjcc.org, MayersonJCC.org/Camp

Camp Chabad Cincinnati's Premier Jewish Day Camp!

Activities include a Shabbat Party, Soccer Shots, Tennis, Basketball, Baseball, Art, drum circle, Nature, Character refinement, crafts, weekly field trips and Challah Baking. Plus, learn about Moshiach, and much more. Make your own schedule and choose weeks that fit your plans! Following all health and safety guidelines. Financial aid available.

Dates: June 20th - July 29th • Ages: Boys and girls ages 5-12 yrs old.

Koenig Park: 520 W. Columbia Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45215, Phone: (513) 731-5111, campchabad.org

Camp Movement, Enrichment, and Empowerment (Camp MEE) The Ohio Center for Sex Education is dedicated to the proposition that all people have a right to relationship and sexual health education that will help them understand, appreciate and take responsibility for their lives. The Sexual Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) has put forth National Sex Education Standards to outline the information students should be taught. However, only 7.2% of

Location: Clifton Neighborhood in Cincinnati, Washington Township in Dayton, Contact: Sarah Dahlston, Phone: 937-528-4662, Ppswo.org

Camp WAVE at Newport Aquarium Camp WAVE is a STEM and animal science focused day camp hosted at Newport Aquarium. Campers will explore the wide variety of animals and ecosystems found on Earth. Campers might team up to use animal super powers (adaptations) to defeat a challenging predator, or search the vast oceans for incredible and diverse shark species.

Dates: June 6 - August 12 • Hours: 8am - 4pm • Ages: Completed K - 6th grade Contact: Erin Shultz, Email: camp@wavefoundation.org, Phone: (859) 815-1442, , wavefoundation.org/ education/campwave/summer-camp/

CCM Preparatory CCM Preparatory at UC offers summer programming in music, dance and theatre and gives students the best of all worlds: high quality instruction in a first-class setting that is both challenging and fun. Whether it’s trying something new or further exploring an arts passion, CCM Prep has something for everyone!

Dates: June, July, and August 2022 • Ages: 5-18 years 3860 Corbett Center Cincinnati, OH 45221-0236, Phone: 513-556-2595, Email: ccmprep@uc.edu, https://ccm.uc.edu/ arts4all/summer.html

Phone: (513) 721-2787, Email: CAMsummercamp@cincyart.org, cincinnatiartmuseum.org/summercamp

Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy's SummerFlight Camps CHCA's SummerFlight program exists to advance CHCA's mission through a robust selection of camp offerings that enable students to learn, lead, and serve during summer months. Welcoming both CHCA & non-CHCA students, we offer the following: Academic/Tech/STEM/Innovation Specialty Camps (Gr 2-9) Athletic Camps (Gr K-9) Fine Arts Camps (Gr K-12) Laffalot Summer Camp (Ages 6-12) Dates: Summer Months June - August • Hours: Varies • Ages: K-12 8283 East Kemper Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249, Contact: Jennifer Murphy, Email: jennifer.murphy@chca-oh.org, Phone: (513) 706-7019, chca-oh.org/Summer

Cincinnati Shakespeare Theatre Summer Camp Whether you’ve never stepped on a stage before, or have already been bitten by the acting bug, our theatre camps are the perfect place to learn some new skills, make some new friends, and have a whole lot of fun! In person programs for students in grade 1-12 who want a fun and challenging stage experience this summer! Learn more online.

Dates: June and July 2022 • Grades: 1-12 • Cost: $295/week, multiple week discount available Cincinnati Shakespeare Company at The Otto M. Budig Theater, 1195 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Phone: 513-381-2273, cincyshakes.com/summercamp

Great Parks of Hamilton County Summer Day Camps What better way to keep the kids

outside and active this summer than at Cincinnati Art Museum Summer Camp a park? Great Parks of Hamilton County Jump into art with eight weeks of exciting art projects, gallery games, and more! Explore a different theme each week with activities taught by skilled educators and museum staff. Designed for children ages 6–12. Convenient before- and after-care available.

Registration begins Feb. 1 at 11 a.m.

953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati OH 45202,

provides a fun and safe environment where your young ones will get to explore streams, take hikes, ride horses, learn archery, go kayaking and much more, with experienced and trained staff. Children ages 2-20 can take part in summer camps focused on nature, adventure, farm life and horseback riding! Sign up before March 31 for early bird pricing! Go online for a full list of * SPONSORED LISTINGS

camps, including dates and fees.

Dates: June-August 2022 Various Great Parks Locations, Phone: 513-521-7275, Email: information@greatparks. org, greatparks.org/discovery/children/ day-camps

Cincinnati Youth Choir All singers in grades 3-9 are invited to attend CYC's SING-A-BRATION Choral Camp this summer. Your child will experience fun interactive sessions with highly qualified instructors to develop skills in vocal artistry, choral movement, and musicianship.

Dates: July 25-30, 2022 • Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am-4:00pm, Saturday 12:00pm-4:00pm • Cost: $200 until May 1st / $225 After May 1st - includes camp t-shirt University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music 290 CCM Blvd., Room 3860 Cincinnati, OH 45221, Contact: Rachel Breeden, Phone: 513-556-0338, Email: rbreeden@ cincinnatichoir.org, cincinnatichoir.org/ singabration/

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati Camps From performance-focused camps to our one-of-a-kind technical theatre intensive, students from all interests and abilities have a variety of opportunities to connect with and learn from world-class theater professionals both on and off the stage in areas such as acting and production skills, improv, vocal health, on-camera acting experience, set design, and more!

Dates: July 11-29, 2022 (see specific dates below) • Hours: 9:00 am-5:00 pm, Monday-Friday • Ages: 7-18 1127 Vine St, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202, Contact: Victoria Aslanides, Email: vaslanides@ ensemblecincinnati.org, Phone: (513) 421-3555, ensemblecincinnati.org/camps-classes/

Heritage Village Museum Heritage Village Museum Our 19th century village is the perfect location for history camp! Campers can travel into the past to experience life during early Cincinnati or dig up and examine artifacts through the lens of archaeology. Campers will learn about history through games, crafts, food, songs, and hands-on activities.

Interpreters and museum docents in historical clothing will lead some of the activities.

Dates: Early Cincinnati Camp Jun. 6-10, Archaeology Camp Jun. 20-24, Immersive History Camp Jun. 27-Jul. 1 and Jul. 11-15 • Hours: 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. There is a come early/stay late option. Campers can be dropped off as early as 8:00 a.m. and picked up as late as 5:30 p.m. for an additional daily fee of $15 • Ages: Ages 6-12 for Early Cincinnati and Archaeology Camps, Ages 13-15 for Immersive History Camp

11500 Lebanon Road, Sharonville, OH 45241, Contact: Steve Preston, Phone: (513) 563-9484, heritagevillagecincinnati.org/summercamp

MidPointe Library Summer Reading Program MidPointe Library System is bringing you a season of fun with its annual Summer Reading Program. Pick up an “Oceans of Possibilities ” activity map and create your own adventure by completing challenges to win prizes. Families can enjoy activities together, exploring new books or finding fun around the house and in your community.

Dates: June 1 – July 3 • Ages: All ages Available at all MidPointe Library System locations (West Chester, Middletown, Liberty Township, Monroe & Trenton), Contact person: Cari Hillman, Phone: 513-424-1251, MidPointeLibrary.org

Museum Camps at The Cincinnati Museum Center Explore science, technology, history and the arts through creative activities and games at Cincinnati Museum Center’s fun and educational Museum Camps.

Whether there’s a day or a week off from school, there’s a camp for that.

Dates: May-August • Hours: 9am-4pm • Ages: 5 to 14 Contact: Nora Eskridge, Email: information@ cincymuseum.org, Phone: (513) 728-0082, cincymuseum.org/museum-camps/

My Nose Turns Red Theatre Camps My Nose Turns Red offers your child the opportunity to run away and join the circus without leaving home! Learn how to juggle, walk on stilts, and learn the basics of creating a clown character.

Camps are highly engaging, challenging youth to walk on the wire, balance on the rola bola, and build human pyramids, building physical literacy and hand-eye coordination. Students play circus games that build teamwork and cooperation, trust, and friendship. Boost your children’s self-confidence and creativity in a safe and non-competitive environment. My Nose Turns Red classes are led by highly experienced, professional circus coaches.

Dates: May 31-August 12, 2022 Contact: Steve Roenker, Phone: 859-581-7100, Email: rednose@fuse.net, mynoseturnsred. org/classes-camps/

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum: Summer Series for Kids Our Summer Series for Kids are workshops for children ages 5 - 12 that promote exploration, creativity and engagement. With a wide variety of themes including conservation, April 2022 I ohParent.com

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artmaking, mindfulness and more, these workshops offer an opportunity to learn something new and explore the grounds of Pyramid Hill.

Dates: Every Wednesday in June & July • Hours: 12 - 1pm • Ages: 5 - 12 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton, OH 45013, Contact: Gabi Roach, Email: groach@ pyramidhill.org, Phone: (513) 386-8833, pyramidhill.org/

Dates: May 31 - July 1, 2022 • Hours: 9:30 am - 4 pm • Ages: 7-18 Phone: (513) 569-8080 , thechildrenstheatre.com/camps/

The Lost Art’s Summer Etiquette Enrichment Camp

The Lost Art, (TLA) LLC “Specializing in Etiquette Perfection” offers customized programs designed to teach etiquette and leadership skills to our Little Snapology of West Chester Ambassadors (ages 5 – 7), Young Diplomats (ages 8 – 13), and Future Snapology’s vision is to create a fun Professionals (ages 14 – 18). Working environment for children to play and with college students and professional learn. Snapology introduces children to adults entering the job world allows STEM through educational play. Our TLA to prepare tomorrow’s managers, programs are focused on building leaders, and influencers what they confidence while developing problem need to know to assert their presence solving and iterative learning skills. in the changing business world.

Snapology is committed to developing future scientists, mathematicians, Dates: June 20 – 24 and July 11 – 15, 2022 engineers, inventors, robotics experts • Hours: 9 am to 4 pm • Ages: 8-13 and more! Snapology Camps use Phone: (888) 354-4639; Email: info@ LEGO Bricks, LEGO Robotics Kits, thelostart.net; tlasummeretiquette K'NEX & Technology to teach children enrichmentcamp.eventbrite.com STEAM Concepts in a fun, hands-on and interactive way. Additionally our programs promote Creativity and strive The Summit Country to build Social, Teamwork and Public Day Summer Camp Speaking skills.

The Summit Country Day School welcomes students from the tri-state Dates: 5/31 - 8/5, 2022 • Hours: 8:30 am area to enjoy summer in-person on our to 5 pm (full day); 8:30 am to 12:30 pm or Hyde Park campus. With programs for 12:30 pm to 5 pm (half day) • Ages: 4 to children ages 3-grade 12, parents can 14 (contact us for other ages) take comfort knowing that your child is Various Locations, Contact: Any Snapologist, exploring their curious nature, enjoying Email: westchestertwp@snapology.com, time with friends and exploring a new Phone: (513) 988-7363, bit.ly/snapcamps topic or hobby. Both full-day and half-day camps are available.

Registration and online catalog will be Taft Museum of Art available on Feb. 1, 2022.

Summer Art Camp Whether your child is thinking about becoming an artist or just likes to have fun making art, our small classes and safe, hands-on activities with experienced teachers will make this a summer of fun. Plus campers will also get to explore a hybrid of experiences thanks to the great art the Cincinnati area has to offer including right here at the Taft.

Dates: Entering grades 1–3: May 30*– June 3, June 6–10; Entering grades 4–6: June 13–17, June 20–24; Entering grades 7–12: June 27–July 1 • Hours: 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Monday-Friday • Ages: Students entering grades 1–3, 4–6, 7–12 316 Pike Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, Email: education@taftmuseum.org, taftmuseum. org/families-children/summer-camp

TCT Summer Camps Enjoy a variety of themes for ages 7-18.

Focus on music, dance, drama, or all three. All TCT camps will engage students in lessons from our high-caliber TCT Academy Teachers and our Resident Artists Company in singing, dancing, acting, costuming, and props. All levels welcome.

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Dates: May 31- August 5, 2022 2161 Grandin Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45230, Phone: (513) 871-4700, summitcds.org/ programs/summit-summer

USA Ninja Challenge Cincinnati Summer Camp The ninja program is designed to meet the requirements of a full physical fitness program for today’s youth. We incorporate ninja obstacles including rings, balance beams, slack lines, cargo nets, ropes, a traverse rock wall, devil steps, horizontal peg boards, our popular warped wall and more! The desired result of this program is to improve children’s strength, flexibility, and athleticism while building self esteem for our ninjas!

X-treme HorsePower Camp at Heavenward Farm Enjoy the outdoors and learn about horses and riding! Horse care, Riding Instruction, Trail Rides, Crafts, Boating, Fishing, Games and Biblical life lessons are all packed into this fun and meaningful camp experience. Limited enrollment, so REGISTER online NOW. Dates: Week 1: June 6-10, Week 2: June 20-24, Week 3: August 1-5 • Hours: 9:00am-2:30pm • Ages: 8-14 • Special Needs Offered: ASD (High-functioning), CP (Mild), Hearing-impaired, ADHD/ Anxiety/DMDD 7084 Ludlum Rd., Morrow, OH 45152, Contact: Carole Bower, Email: admin@ heavenwardfarm.org, Phone: (513) 289-9434, heavenwardfarm.org

YMCA Summer Day Camps Day and specialty camps at the Y are all about adventure. Kids have the opportunity to explore nature, find hidden talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting friendships. Weekly themes create energy and excitement whether you camper is with us for one week or the full summer!

Dates: Camps run May through August • Ages: 5-15 • Cost: Varies by camp. Visit MyY.org/day-camp for prices.

12 locations in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, Phone: 513-362-YMCA, myY.org/day-camp

YMCA of Greater Dayton Day Camps Join the YMCA of Greater Dayton from May-August 2022 (session dates vary by location) for a fun-filled summer for your child! Whether you choose one week or all summer, YMCA Day Camp fits your schedule and provides fun and enriching activities for your child. OUR PROMISE TO PARENTS - Your kids will be safe, make new friends, learn new skills and most of all, have fun!

Dates: Weeks during May 31st–August 12th Available at all 10 of our Dayton area YMCA's, Contact: Valerie Holland, Email: ymcachildcare@daytonymca.org, Phone: (937) 223-5201, daytonymca.org/ programs/child-care-programs/ summer-day-camp

Dates: June 6th-August 5th • Hours: Monday through Friday 9:00am -12:00pm

RESIDENTIAL CAMPS

4727 Red Bank Rd Cincinnati, OH 45227, Contact: Steve Sharp, Phone: 513-739-5528, Email: redbank@usaninja challenge.com, ninjacincinnati.com

Camp Ernst Week-long overnight camp and day camp. Helping people grow in spirit, mind, body, and friendship since 1928.

YMCA Camp Ernst is the most popular summer camp in the Greater Cincinnati area. Steeped in tradition and built on the YMCA values of honesty, caring, responsibility and respect, Camp Ernst

hosts campers who enjoy top-notch counselors and make friends, doing a wide variety of activities including our zipline, 100 ft waterslide, high ropes discovery course, archery, horseback riding, and much more!

Dates: Sunday-Saturday June 12 - August 13 • Ages: 5-15 • Cost: $675/week for overnight, $260/week for day camp 7615 Camp Ernst Rd. Burlington, KY 41005 , Phone: 859-586-6181, myYcamp.org

Falcon Camp Recognized throughout the midwest as Ohio’s premier summer camp since 1959. Beautiful lakefront setting, talented experienced staff and wide variety of activities. Campers choose own schedules within general framework. Most of all it’s great fun!

Special intro for 6-10 year olds. ACA accredited. At Falcon, 'Good Things Happen by Design.'

Gender of Campers: boys and girls -separate daily activities with planned coed events. • Dates: June 19 -August 13 in 1,2,4,6 or 8 week sessions • Ages: 6-16 4251 Delta Rd SW, Carrollton, OH 44615, Contact: Dave Devey, Phone: (330) 627-4269, Email: Info@falconcamp.com, falconcamp. com/

The Odyssey Program at Cleveland State University's School of Film & Media Arts The Odyssey Program at Cleveland State University’s School of Film & Media Arts offers a variety of immersive summer camps for teens of all skill levels interested in filmmaking. The summer includes four different sessions of one-and-three-week camps with residential and day camp options. Learn more on our website.

Dates: Odyssey Program Experiential Three Week Summer Camp – June 13-July 1, 2022 Odyssey Intensive: Acting and Directing – July 11-17, 2022 Odyssey Intensive: Documentary Production – July 18-24, 2022 Odyssey Intensive: Screenwriting – July 25-31, 2022 • Hours: Day camp hours: 9am-5pm • Ages: 13-18 1375 Euclid Ave, 6th floor, Cleveland, Ohio 44115, Contact: Valerie Temple, Email: odyssey@csuohio.edu, Phone: (216) 687-5087, csufilmodyssey.com/

BE PART OF NEXT MONTH'S GUIDE CONTACT KATIE@OHPARENT.COM

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SW OHIO PARENT'S

SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE [ contents ]

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4 BIG BENEFITS OF SUMMER CAMP FOR KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

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SENSORY-FRIENDLY AND INCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES

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TALKING TO KIDS ABOUT DISABILITIES

SPECIAL NEEDS

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

4 Big Benefits of Summer Camp for Kids with Special Needs Going to summer camp — whether to a day camp or an overnight camp — can be an enriching and positive experience. Camp is where kids learn many life skills that they will take into adulthood, including learning how to do things on their own, learning how to make friends and get along with others, and learning how to embrace new experiences.

Here are just some of the ways that summer camp can be a big benefit for kids with special needs… for both the child and the parent.

and abilities benefit from screen-free time, and camp provides a great outlet (and excuse!) for leaving the screens behind, even if it’s only for a few hours.

Get a Break

Many camps for kids with special needs have specially trained staff to help kids get out of their comfort zones and try new activities. This opens kids up not just to new experiences, but experiencing new people, too.

Grow Friendships Summer camp for kids with special needs provides a safe environment for friendships to blossom, and it allows kids to work on their social skills with other kids who might understand their challenges. Although camp can oftentimes provide a structure similar to a school setting, camp is typically more low-key and engaging, with an emphasis on fun, so there are more opportunities for kids to let down their guard and find new buddies.

Kids who have a difficult time making friends during the school year might find themselves making friends easily at camp.

Gain New Skills No matter what kind of camp your child attends, chances are, they will be learning something new. Whether it’s a complex skill like building a fire or rowing a boat, or something more everyday like finally learning how to tie their shoes, camp is an opportunity for a child to step outside of their comfort zone and grow.

In some cases, you can find camps that will teach kids specific skills, like how to swim or how to ride a bike without training wheels.There are also camps for kids with disabilities that teach kids how to play team sports, like soccer or baseball, and provide wheelchair accessibility and helpers. These kinds of camp experiences help to ensure that kids have a positive experience learning a new skill.

Parenting is tough. Parenting a child with special needs can sometimes be even more tough.

Children are perceptive and can sense when their parents are burned out and need a break. And guess what? Most of the time, the child needs a break just as much as the parent does! Camp provides this break, for both the parent and child. At camp, kids can make new friends, engage with adults who are not their parents, and get a little change of pace. Parents can take a breather and reset for when their child comes back home. It’s a win-win for all involved.

Unplug from Technology Technology has increasingly made its way into our everyday lives, including the lives of our children. But camp is one of the few places where kids can fully unplug from their phones, tablets, video games and TVs, and just experience summer the oldfashioned way. Kids of all ages

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SPECIAL NEEDS

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

sensory-friendly and

I n c l u s i v e experiences More and more places around southwest Ohio are realizing the importance of making everyone feel welcome, and that includes people with autism and special needs.

Here are just some of the many institutions and attractions in the area that have embraced people with special needs and sensory sensitivities.

THE ARTS

The Cincinnati Art Museum offers a wide variety of tours and programs to make the museum accessible to everyone, including Autism Family Exploration for families with children with autism; Tours with American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Touch Tours for visitors who are blind or partially sighted.

Cincinnati Ballet Sensory-friendly Performances 1801 Gilbert Ave, Cincinnati cballet.org/sensory-friendly

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati Sensory-friendly Performances 4015 Red Bank Rd, Cincinnati thechildrenstheatre.com/ accessible-performances The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati is proud to present TCT’s Sensory-Friendly performances, intended for individuals on the autism spectrum, as well as people with other special needs who may benefit and their families.

The Cincinnati Ballet presents a sensory-friendly version of certain ballets throughout the season.

These performances accommodate children, families and adults with sensory sensitivities and other specific needs.

Accessible Tours and Programs 953 Eden Park Dr, Cincinnati cincinnatiartmuseum.org/ events-programs/accessibility

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Art with Buddies

Multiple venues in Dayton

playkettering.org/rosewoodarts-center-home

daytonlive.org These sensory-friendly productions are great for all families, especially for children with an autism spectrum disorder, sensory sensitivity, and other special needs. You can expect a reduction of loud or jarring sounds, the absence of flashing or strobe lighting on stage, modification of house lights during the performance, and a judgment-free environment where all patrons are free to vocalize or move around the theatre. No one will be asked to leave the performance due to vocal reactions, movement or behaviors related to cognitive/developmental abilities.

Dayton Performing Arts Alliance

Sensory-friendly Performances

One West Second St., Dayton

962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati

The Playhouse offers many accommodations for special needs.

Check out the Student Matinees page for sensory-friendly performances.

Rosewood Arts Center

Sensory-friendly Performances

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

cincyplay.com/visit/accessibility

Cincinnati Art Museum

Dayton Live

Sensory-friendly Performances daytonperformingarts.org Dayton Performing Arts Alliance offers sensory-friendly performances designed especially for children and adults with autism spectrum disorder, sensory sensitivities or other special needs.

2655 Olson Dr., Kettering

Rosewood Arts Center offers an art class each season for kids ages 3-6 on the Autism Spectrum and their "buddies" (parent or caregiver).

Each student will receive individualized attention from an experienced art teacher.

SPORTS & MOVEMENT Mayerson JCC 8485 Ridge Ave, Cincinnati mayersonjcc.org/inclusion/ special-needs The JCC offers regular inclusion events, fitness classes and camps for people with special needs.

YMCA of Greater Cincinnati 1105 Elm St, Cincinnati myy.org/#specialty_swimming The YMCA offers adaptive swim lessons for people with special needs.

YMCA of Greater Dayton Various locations around Dayton daytonymca.org Offering adaptive martial arts, adaptive zumba and much more.

MOVIES AMC Theatres Sensory Friendly Film Program Various locations around southwest Ohio amctheatres.com/programs/ sensory-friendly-films AMC offers unique movie showings where the lights are turned up, the sound is turned down, and visitors are invited to get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! The Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday (familyfriendly) and Wednesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month.

Check the website for local theatre listings and specific showtimes.

Cobb Luxury 15 Theatres Sensory-friendly Movie Showings 7514 Bales St., Liberty Township liberty-center.com/stores/cmx The Cobb Luxury 15 Theatres offers an all-ages movie-going experience, with periodic sensory-friendly movie showings.

The auditorium uses brighter lighting and lowered sound level, with no commercials or previews.

Guests are encouraged to be themselves and interact with film.

Regal Theatres My Way Matinee Regal Deerfield Town Center & RPX, 5500 Deerfield Blvd, Mason regmovies.com/static/en/us/ promotions/my-way-matinee Regal’s My Way Matinee invites

everyone to experience a movie with the lights turned up and the volume turned down. This is a safe space where guests are free to express themselves by singing, crying, dancing, walking around, talking or shouting while enjoying the latest films. All screenings for sensory-friendly movies begin at 10:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Saturday of the month for a special discounted ticket price.

Cincinnati Museum Center

Scene75 Entertainment Center

1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati

Special Needs Day

cincymuseum.org/accessibility

Various locations around southwest Ohio

Guests of the Cincinnati Museum Center will find designated quiet zones, accommodations for the visually and hearing impaired, and sensory-friendly exhibits so everyone can enjoy a day at the Museum Center.

The first Thursday of every month, Scene75 offers a Special Needs Day for local families. The program has been developed to help improve social and motor skills, hand and eye coordination, reaction time, and recognition… all in a safe, controlled and FUN environment.

ATTRACTIONS & PLACES TO PLAY

Clippard Park 3500 Bevis Lane, Colerain Township colerain.org

Boonshoft Museum Discovery

of

Sensory Sundays 2600 DeWeese Pkwy., Dayton boonshoftmuseum.org/eventsactivities/sensory-sundays The Sensory Sunday program offers extended hours for local families with a member who has a sensory disorder, such as being on the autism spectrum. During these special hours, the Museum will adjust lighting and sound, have trained volunteers and additional staff, and offer programs that appeal to families who could benefit from a less stimulating atmosphere.

Chuck E. Cheese Sensory Sensitive Sundays Various locations around southwest Ohio chuckecheese.com/sensorysensitive-sundays Every Sunday morning, Chuck E. Cheese opens its doors two hours early to offer a sensory-friendly experience at participating locations. Guests will find fewer crowds and a quieter restaurant environment, dimmed lighting, music turned down or off completely, limited character appearances, as well as full access to all the games and a full food menu.

This Colerain Township playground is inclusive for everyone, boasting ADA wide ramps, a variety of play equipment, swings with zero-G seats, tot seats and open seats, many climbing features, a music play area, a sandlot with backhoes (one accessible), sand and water tables and other fun features, plus swinging benches and covered tables.

Kings Island

We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym 4060 E. Galbraith Rd., Unit 17, Cincinnati werockthespectrum cincinnati.com We Rock the Spectrum offers a safe, nurturing and fun environment to foster learning, exploration and safe sensory experiences. Kids with disabilities will find a space to play freely here.

6300 Kings Island Dr, Mason visitkingsisland.com/ accessibility Kings Island has a Boarding Pass Program which allows guests with mobility restrictions or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to access rides at specified times via the exit ramp in order to avoid crowds and waiting in the regular lines. Guests with a Boarding Pass will obtain a boarding or “ride” time on the pass that is equal to the anticipated wait time for a particular ride from the ride associate at the Alternate Access Entrance (usually a ride’s exit).

Guests can then choose to rest comfortably away from the queue area until their boarding time.

West Fork Park Playground 4764 West Fork Rd., Cincinnati greentwp.org/parksdepartment/west-fork-park This playground features a maze for toddlers, a climbing and sliding hill, a musical playground, a zip line, slides and swings. However what will set this playground apart is that elements of it will appeal to children with sensory challenges, specifically children with autism, such as a maze with various visual and tactile elements.

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SPECIAL NEEDS

WORDS BY RACHAEL DUPREE

Talking to Kids About Disabilities How to talk to typically developing kids about kids with special needs.

As parents, we have the opportunity to engage our children in their many curiosities.

While there’s no doubt some of our kids’ questions will surprise us, others we can be prepared for.

We can expect that, at some point, our children will notice people with disabilities and, naturally, have questions. Here are some tips for getting ahead of the conversation and having meaningful discussion about disabilities.

Accept Your Discomfort If you’ve felt that tingle of discomfort when your child has had a question about a person who is different from them, you’re not alone.

“We’ve all received messages before that we shouldn’t talk openly and freely about disability,” says Kara Ayers, associate director of the University of Cincinnati Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities’ Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, who has a disability herself. “Sometimes our anxiety is based in what we feel is kindness. We don’t want to make others feel bad. By even accidentally shaming kids for asking questions, we can send a message we don’t want to: that disability itself is bad or that talking about it is bad.”

The important thing here is to remember that your child is most likely coming from a place of curiosity. By accepting your discomfort and proceeding with a direct and respectful conversation, you can help normalize disabilities, promote an inclusive mindset, and set a tone of empathy and respect, she says.

they know, such as they both like to draw or both like pizza. You can expand the conversation by asking your child about something they need help with, and pointing out that everyone needs help in some way and that this doesn’t describe everything about who they are.

Discuss Unseen Disabilities

Avoiding Euphemisms Use the word disability. “Don’t make up words that are well-intended, like ‘handi-capable’ or even ‘special needs,’ because it inadvertently furthers stigma about disability when we aren’t even comfortable enough to say the word,” Ayers says.

Speaking in a Neutral Tone Answer your child’s questions with neutral, fact-based responses, taking care not to invoke a sense of pity or sadness. For example, you could say, “Yes, that woman is walking with a guide dog.

Guide dogs are trained to help people move around if they cannot see.”

Using Positive Language Avoid language that implies that something is wrong with a disabled person. For example, instead of saying, “She uses a wheelchair because she can’t walk,” you can say, “Some people’s muscles work differently and a wheelchair helps them be able to move.”

Admitting What You Don’t Know If you don’t have an immediate answer to your child’s question, responding with “I don’t know, but it’s something we can learn more about” is completely valid — just make sure to follow up.

Talk Directly Using clear, matter-of-fact language to talk about disabilities is not only respectful to the disabled community, it simply makes more sense to children. Practice direct conversation by:

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Emphasize Similarities Emphasizing similarities between people with and without disabilities helps develop empathy in your child. Make this personal by pointing out similarities your child has with a disabled person

While children may first notice visible disabilities, you can also point out disabilities we can’t always see, such as hearing impairment, autism and dyslexia. Explain that people with unseen disabilities may require special equipment or education services, and that they may have behaviors that are surprising or even scary.

“Everyone is usually safe and if they aren’t, adults can help ensure safety,” Ayers recommends explaining to children. “[People] with these behaviors are still [people] who also want to learn, play and be accepted.”

Prioritize Inclusivity It can be tempting to tell your kids to be “extra nice” to children they know who have a disability, but these acts of charity actually get in the way of inclusivity. “You may be surprised how we adults are unfortunately and often not intentionally still making it difficult for kids with and without disabilities to get to know each other,” Ayers says.

Instead, she says to talk with your kids about how they can include and befriend kids with disabilities.

Use Teaching Tools Seek out resources to help steer your family’s conversation about disabilities. Picture books are a go-to for young children, and you can find many great book lists that embrace disabilities, including Think Inclusive’s “Representation Matters: 10 Children’s Books With Disabled Characters.”

Watching Sesame Street with your child and discussing the characters with disabilities can also be a good conversation starter. Finally, turn to the disabled community for education. “There are some excellent social media accounts where adults with disabilities are generously sharing their time and expertise on these topics,” Ayers says.

“Listen to them.”

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EDUCATION GUIDE CHARTER

and nurturing a love for life-long learning. Individualized curriculum Citizens of the World customized for each student, expansive Charter School naturally lit rooms, low student ratio.

Our model focuses on social and Specials include yoga, music, Hebrew, emotional learning, project based Spanish, dance, drama, art and Tae learning, and difference and inclusion.

Kwon Do. Flexible schedules, before and We empower children to think critically aftercare, web cams and after-school and learn to engage respectfully and enrichment available. Transportation productively with fellow students by available to/from Mason schools. developing their capacity to enter into Limited space - now enrolling! • 7587 and understand the lives of others. • Central Parke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040, Phone: 4324 Homer Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45227, Contact: Executive Director, Phone: (513) 445-4793, Email: recruitment@cwcschools.org, cwccincinnati.org

CHILDCARE & PRESCHOOL A Million Dreams Learning Center New Learning Center now open in Milford, OH! Now Enrolling ages 6 weeks - School Age! We strive to provide an environment, staff, and programs that will enhance and encourage the million dreams of each child, family, and staff member. Through our classroom design, playground design and Christian curriculum, it is this Center’s desire to maintain a joy-filled, peaceful, creative environment for infants and children. We are committed to furnishing such an environment and adding a quality of childcare that is desirable and much needed in our community. • 541 Main

(513) 234-0600, ChaiTots.com, Ages/ Grades: Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Kindergarten (6 weeks-6 years), Enrollment: 60

Creative Tots, Mason Our holistic approach allows children (18 months - 5 1/2 years) the opportunity to learn, explore, play and grow while engaging in the fine arts, science, music, yoga and a modernized curriculum. We provide opportunities to use creativity, solve problems, use language, develop new vocabulary and reading skills, while engaging in intellectual activities. There are elements of STEAM education, bilingual education, arts education, as well as lots of physical activities to strengthen the mind and body. • 6408 Thornberry Ct., Mason, OH 45040, Contact: Emilie Parry, Phone: 513-770-6776, Email: creativetotsmason@gmail.com, creativetotsmason.com, Grades: Toddler: 18 months-3 yrs, Preschool: 3-4 yrs; Pre-K: 4-5 yrs

Street, Milford OH 45150, Contact: Kate Jordan, Phone: (513) 831-5806, Email: info@ amilliondreamslc.org, amilliondreamslc.org

MONTESSORI

The Campus at Kids First

Little Sprouts Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten

We have FULL DAY Kindergarten!

Located inside the nationally acclaimed Kids First Sports Center, The Campus offers the premier early learning experience for children ages 6 weeks through Kindergarten. As the only early learning center in the area that makes physical education a top priority, The Campus at Kids First gives your child an academic edge by integrating a world class physical education (including gymnastics, basketball, yoga and soccer!) curriculum in to the daily schedule, at NO additional cost! Our carefully selected and loving teachers utilize a relevancebased curriculum combined with child-directed play to make learning FUN and start each child on their journey to becoming a life-long learner. • 7900 E Kemper Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, theCampusKF.com, Phone: (513) 629-KIDS, Email: info@theCampusKF.com

Chai Tots Early Childhood Center Academic excellence via a unique blend of Jewish and Montessori education offering strong academics, stressing life skills, interpersonal relationship skills * SPONSORED LISTINGS

Little Sprouts Montessori nurtures the natural curiosity and enthusiasm of children, helping them develop a lifetime love of learning. Our goal is to empower children to discover and hone their strengths as they explore the world. We recognize the importance of individualized education, and maintain a 1:6 ratio. • 7131 Plainfield Road, Deer Park, OH 45236, Contact: Christie Sawyer, Phone: 513-697-9021, Email: csawyer@ leavesoflearning.org, little-sprouts.org, Grades: Preschool & Kindergarten, Enrollment: Families choose mornings two to four days per week (T/TH and/or W/F), and/or afternoon sessions on Tuesday and Thursday.

Mercy Montessori Center Mercy Montessori is Cincinnati's first Catholic Montessori elementary school and provides students with a personalized education. Mercy offers a sliding scale tuition model, in-school swimming instruction starting at age three, and attracts students from over 60 zip codes. Mercy educates the whole child and develops a strong foundation for learning. • 2335 Grandview Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45206, Contact: Amanda

Grimm, Admissions Director, Phone: (513) 475-6700 ext. 210, Email: agrimm@ mercymontessori.org, mercymontessori.org, Grades: Preschool - 8th Grade, Enrollment: 296

The New School Montessori Cincinnati's only school accredited by the American Montessori Society.

Centrally located and surrounded by wooded play yards and gardens, students benefit from a nurturing environment where Montessoricredentialed staff support high academic and personal achievement.

Full-day, half-day with healthy lunches included in tuition. ISACS and AMS accredited program. • 3 Burton Woods

Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229, Contact: Ceara Comstock, Phone: (513) 281-7999, Email: ceara.c@newschoolmontessori.com, newschool montessori.com, Grades: 3-year-olds through Grade 6, Enrollment: 144

NON–PUBLIC Bishop Leibold School When you join the Bishop Leibold Family, you join a community of students and families, a caring staff, and three parishes dedicated to providing your child with an excellent Christ-centered education. We serve students in preschool (3 years old) through eighth grade! Contact us today to learn more. • 6666 N Springboro Pike Dayton, OH 45449 | 24 S. Third St. Miamisburg, OH 45342, 937-434-9343 | 937-866-3021, bishopleibold.org

Guardian Angels School Guardian Angels School provides students in preschool through eighth grade with a faith-filled experience focused on academic excellence, whole child education, and attention to each child’s unique learning needs. As a school, we push all of our students to earn their HALO through being Honest, Accountable, and a Leader to Others . • 6539 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati 45230, Contact: Mr. Corey Stoops, Principal, Phone: 513-624-3141, gaschool.org, Grades: Preschool - Grade 8

The Summit Country Day School Founded in 1890, The Summit serves students from 18 months to Grade 12.

Full- and half-day Montessori programs for ages 18 months-age 6 begin the academic journey followed by a college-preparatory program (Grades 1-12). The Summit educates students spiritually, academically, physically, socially and artistically while offering the academic excellence and one-on-one guidance of a top-tier Catholic independent school. • 2161 Grandin Road (Hyde Park), Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: 513-871-4700, ext. 261, Email: pearl_e@ summitcds.org, summitcds.org

SPECIAL NEEDS Dufau Speech Therapy Functional speech therapy with a focus on parent involvement. Easy and convenient sessions provided via Teletherapy, all that is needed is an internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone. Specialized treatment for speech/phonological disorders, language disorders, and co-occurring literacy deficits. Schedule a free consultation! • Contact: Jen Dufau, jen@dufauspeechtherapy.com Phone: 513-692-9963, DufauSpeechTherapy.com

Linden Grove School Linden Grove School is a stateaccredited, non-public K-8 school offering a specialized learning environment for students with ASD and related learning needs. Our progressive education program integrates academics, social-emotional learning, and specialized therapies. We partner with families to create a respectful, rewarding and supportive environment, inspiring hope for all and providing each student with the opportunity for personal growth and independence.

After-school programs and summer camp are also available for enrolled students. • 4122 Myrtle Ave, Cincinnati, OH

45236, lindengroveschool.org, Phone: (513) 984-2215, headofschool@lindengroveschool.org

Springer School and Center The Miami Valley School At The Miami Valley School's Early Childhood School, a lifetime love of learning begins for students age 3-4.

Here, seasoned teachers create a safe environment where a child’s learning and imagination take flight. Since 1964, MVS has been Dayton's top private school for grades EC-12. Schedule your tour: www.miamivalleyschool.org/ admissions. • 5151 Denise Drive, Dayton, OH 45429, Phone: (937) 434-4444, mvschool.com/

For 50 years, Springer School and Center has empowered students with learning disabilities to lead successful lives.

Springer offers a day school for students ages 6-14 and outreach programs and learning disability resources for students, parents and teachers in the Greater Cincinnati area. The Springer Experience.

Success Starts Here. • 2121 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: Jill Wieging, Associate Admissions Director, Phone: 513 871-6080 ext. 211, Fax: 513-871-6428, Email: jwieging@springer-ld.org, springer-LD.org, Grades: 1 through 8, Enrollment: 200 April 2022 I ohParent.com

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AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY PAM FREEMAN

Local Spotlight: For the Love of Children

This Dayton nonprofit helps ensure that Dayton children are fed, cared for and participate in important life events.

For Love of Children (FLOC) is a 100% volunteer-oriented organization with 10 strong programs that serve over 6,000 children in southern Ohio who are neglected, abused, in foster care or in need of community resources.

sending them to camps across the world, giving computers and equipment and lifetime membership to area museums.

Whatever that wish might be, we're there.

Southwest Ohio Parent spoke to Beth Mann, president of the board at For the Love of Children, about this nonprofit that helps the children of Dayton.

Our offices will nearly double in space in early April. We will move up to the fifth f loor of the Talbott Tower in downtown Dayton. With the new space, we will host tutoring, music lessons, cooking lessons and counseling. The sky is the limit! Our current offices will house the FLOC Rocks Pop Culture Museum and the boutique will become our new gift shop with all proceeds going to FLOC.

How did For the Love of Children get started?

FLOC was established in the early 1980s by caseworkers at Montgomery County Children's Services who realized children in their care would not receive Christmas gifts unless they did something about it. They delivered their own personal Christmas gifts to 35 children that first year. Today, our toy cottage provides Christmas magic with toys for over 1,500 children in need.

How do you connect with kids that need your services?

We are partnered with three area low-income schools and with all the children represented through Montgomery County Children's Services.

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What do you have planned for the future?

What impact does For Love of Kids have on the kids it serves?

After our first gala, we worked with Children's Services to best allocate the $28,000 raised. We were told that 70% of the children in foster care did not know their birth dates. We found two private detectives who donated their time to find these important dates.

Now, every child in foster care through this agency knows their birth date and is celebrated by both a card and a gift card.

We have a boutique brimming with new gowns, formal wear for men and women, shoes, jewelry and hygiene bags. Every year, Independent Living hosts a winter ball for youth in foster care. They come into our boutique a little weary and confused; they f loat away feeling beautiful and loved.

We have incredible volunteers

How can people help For Love of Kids?

who are invested in making these experiences a moment of joy, and they do!

We have a grant-a-wish program where we get to do just that. Each month via Zoom, an unsuspecting, deserving youth attends our board meeting. We honor that youth’s special achievements by things like

Please check out our website for further information on FLOC at f locdayton.org, or reach out to Beth Mann, president of the board for FLOC at beth7mann@gmail. com. We are most grateful to live in a community with such a kind and generous heart.

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TRAVEL

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Unique Family Vacations

Three unusual travel ideas to consider for your next family vacation.

It’s travel season! If you and your family are looking for some out-of-the-box destinations for your next family trip, consider these fun and unique ideas.

room. Keep in mind that there are other costs associated with an RV rental, including gas, campground fees, food and more.

Go Glamping Out in Nature

Mosey Over to a Dude Ranch Dreaming of life on the ranch, even if only for a short while? Then your family might enjoy a dude ranch vacation. There are more than 100 dude ranches around the country that you can visit, from Arkansas to California and Montana to Arizona, where you can learn about the western cowboy lifestyle and enjoy wide-open spaces.

A dude ranch vacation will have your family riding the trails, working cattle, fly fishing in pristine rivers, and dressing the part. Spend time riding, eating and enjoying the ranch with your wranglers and truly learn what it means to be a cowboy.

Dude ranches can be the ultimate family vacation for all ages, because in most cases, they are all-inclusive vacations. Activities, accommodations, meals and more are offered all in one fun package, taking a lot of the

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guesswork out of planning a vacation. Some ranches do have “a la carte” options that you can add on to your vacation, such as guided fishing, spa services or river rafting, depending on the location you choose.

Hit the Road in a Rental RV Road trips are back and bigger than ever this year. After two years of postponing family vacations, many people are opting to hit the road and explore the country from behind the wheel. Because of this, renting a recreational vehicle (or RV) for vacation has become a very popular way to travel.

For families looking to social distance, an RV is a great option for traveling. They allow families to enjoy most of the comforts of home — including a private bathroom, a place to sleep, and a place to hang

out — all without leaving the safety and security of your vehicle.

So, what are the best options for renting an RV for a family trip?

Cruise America (cruiseamerica. com), Outdoorsy (outdoorsy. com) and RVShare (rvshare.com) are three popular websites that will allow you to easily book an RV motor home, camper or pull-trailer for a family trip. Depending on the type of vehicle you rent, how long you plan to rent the RV, and where you’re going, renting an RV can be comparable in price to a hotel

There is camping, and then there is glamping. If your family likes the idea of being surrounded by nature but also likes the luxurious things in life, then a glamping vacation (glamor + camping) is made for you. From fully furnished yurts and decked-out teepees to covered wagons and retro Airstreams, there are many unusual places for to rest, relax and enjoy the outdoors in style around the Midwest and the country at large.

You can find locations to get your glamp on at GlampingHub (glampinghub.com), or just by doing a web search with the word “glamping” and your preferred destination. You’re sure to find a cool glamping location that will allow you to escape in style.

TOP PHOTO CREDIT

DUDE RANCHERS’ ASSOCIATION

THINGS TO DO //

FRI 01 Story Time in the Garden

Join them for their weekly story time that promises to engage your youngster(s) in the joys of nature and imaginative adventure! • Location: Highfield Discovery Garden, Time: 10- 10:30 am, greatparks.org

Little Explorers Each Little Explorers session will introduce toddlers to nature while learning about letters, numbers, shapes, colors, and so much more! This program is meant to help strengthen and build the skills that your preschooler is learning at home and preschool while building a love of the outdoors. • Location: Bellbrook Park District Headquarters, Time: 10:30- 11:30 am, bellbrooksugarcreekparks.org

SAT 02 Star Wars Night @

Cincinnati Cyclones May the force be with you as they celebrate all things in the Star Wars Universe as some special guests join them on the concourse as the Cyclones wear specialty jerseys. • Location: Heritage Bank Center, Time: 7:30, cycloneshockey.com

Spring Stargazing Explore the wilderness above as you look at two planets and the Moon. You will also see less commonly viewed objects that historical astronomers simply referred to as nebula. A naturalist will be on hand to lead short night hikes. We’ll stay warm with a campfire on this early spring night. All ages. • Location: Bill Yeck Park, Time: 6-9 pm, cwpd.org FREE

Bunnypalooza Rabbit, rabbit, rabbit! Hop on over to learn all about rabbits! Discover cool facts about the native Eastern Cottontails and meet some of their domestic friends. Geared towards families. You will also take a hike and make a craft. • Location: Caldwell Nature

APRIL 2022

SAT 02̶MON 11 The Wiz JR. The Wiz JR. is a vibrant take on Dorothy’s adventures through the Land of Oz and a fun, family-friendly musical that is considered one of the most popular and creative theatrical adaptations of all time. Packed with iconic songs like “Ease On Down the Road” and “Brand New Day,” this musical includes exciting dance numbers which blend traditional movement from African culture with ballet, jazz, and modern dance! • Location: Taft

Theatre, Time: see website for times, thechildrenstheatre. com/shows/the-wiz-jr

ohParent.com I April 2022

and your child will shake it together! Sing, dance and enjoy music, movement and fun, in-person! • Location: Anderson Branch Library, Time: 10:15-11 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

Outdoor Explorers Outdoor play is vital to child development and well-being. Children will learn about nature and the outdoors in this program designed to allow children to interact with nature in unique ways.

Activities include discovery, challenges and games. • Location: Grant Park, Time: 4:30- 6:30 pm, cwpd.org

SUN 03 Family Trivia Night:

Animal Fact or Fiction Do toads really freeze solid in the winter? Is it true that beavers eat fish?

Are owls actually as wise as people claim? Test your animal knowledge as you separate fact from fiction!

Advanced registration required. • Location: Lake Isabella, Time: 6-8 pm, greatparks.org

Show and Tell on the Farm Leaping Lambs What is a lamb, ewe and ram?

Are there other animals on a farm with wooly coats? Find out these answers and more through fun activities and a craft at this leaping lambs Show and Tell. Registration requested, walk-ins welcome. • Location: Chrisholm MetroPark, Time: 2-3 pm, yourmetroparks.net FREE

SUN 03̶SAT 09 Rhea Lana’s Children’s Consignment Event One Week Pop Up Event! Kids are expensive and life is hectic!

Rhea Lana’s is the answer for busy and savvy moms. We have clothes, shoes, toys, books, games, furniture, maternity, and more. • Location: Harpers Stations, Time: see website for times, northcincinnati.rhealana.com

TUES 05 Storytime: Preschool

Enjoy books, songs, activities and more, while building early literacy skills. • Location: Symmes Township Branch

Library, Time: 10:30-11 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

WED 06 Friends & Family Hike

Series: National Walking Day Grab your friends and come out for a nature hike. Staff and volunteers will guide you through the park, which makes this hike perfect for those just getting acquainted with Bill Yeck Park, and those who have been hiking there for years. • Location: Bill Yeck Park, Time: 5:30-6:30 pm, cwpd.org

THURS 07, 14, 21 & 28 Tunes & Blooms See a collection of Cincinnati’s finest and most respected music veterans playing together in the Zoo’s beautiful gardens. Why tip-toe through the tulips when you can rock the garden? On Thursdays during Tunes & Blooms, admission is free after 5pm. Music starts at 6. • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Time: 5-8:30 pm, cincinnatizoo.org *ONGOING

Preserve, Time: 1-2:30 pm, cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks

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MON 04 Movers and Shakers You

FREE / free for families!

*ONGOING /a recurring event

*SN / special needs friendly

/ a SW Ohio Parent favorite!

THURS 07̶MON 10 Snow White Who’s the ‘fairest of them all? Find out this season in a regional premiere of their Family Series: Snow White. It’s the treasured fairy tale of a jealous Queen, her beautiful stepdaughter, and a kiss from a handsome Prince. Snow White is just over an hour long, narrated, fun, fully-staged ballet, featuring Cincinnati Ballet Second Company – CB2 dancers. It’s the perfect introduction to dance, even for the youngest members of your family. • Location: Aronoff Center, Time: see website for times, cballet.org

FRI 08 Story Time in the Garden

Join them for their weekly story time that promises to engage your youngster(s) in the joys of nature and imaginative adventure! • Location: Highfield Discovery Garden, Time: 10- 10:30 am, greatparks.org

FRI 08̶SUN 10 Dayton Ballet's

The Great Gatsby The Great Gatsby, as exquisitely crafted tale of 1920s America, tells the story of the fabulously wealthy Jay Gatsby and his love for the beautiful Daisy Buchanan. Choreographed by Ron Cunningham, Artistic Director of Sacramento Ballet, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic is brought to life by the wonderful dancers of Dayton Ballet in the historic Victoria Theatre. • Location: Victoria Theatre, Time: see website for times, daytonperformingarts.org

Spring Fashion Doll Show & Sale Featuring Barbie, Tonner, Fashion Royalty, Madame Alexander, Monster High, Action Figures and other fashion & collectible dolls. One day only! Show admission is $5; Free for kids under 12. • Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, Time: 10 am- 3 pm, entertrainmentjunction.com

SAT 09 Eggstravaganza! Celebrate

spring by learning about animals that lay eggs. Collect an egg from each of the stations and turn them in for a prize!

Each egg will represent an animal you can find in your parks. Trail will take about 1.5 hours to complete.

Recommended for families with children ages 8 and under. • Location: Bill Yeck Park, Time: 10 am- 1 pm, cwpd.org

2022 Winton Woods Cleanup Join Great Parks and Forest Park Environmental Awareness for the cleanup that's been making a difference for over 30 years! Bring a group or work solo - removing the litter from around Winton Woods Lake requires all the hands we can get. • Location: Winton Woods, Time: 9 am- Noon,

SCAC Family Fun Day Come join Sharonville Cultural Arts Center for Games, Food, and Family Fun! Carnival games, raffle baskets, balloon animals, food and drink available for purchase. Rain or shine. All ages welcome. • Location: Sharonville Cultural

Flashlight Egg Hunt When the park is dark, your flashlight will be your guide! Bring your own flashlight and join in on the fun at Forest Run Metropark Timberman Ridge Area. Participants will walk through a trail to end up at a field filled with glowing eggs! Collect 12 and turn them in to redeem candy and a special prize.

Additional crafts and games will be available for free. •

MON 11 Pop-Up Nature Fun: An

greatparks.org FREE

Location: Forest Run Metropark, Time: 7-10 pm, yourmetroparks.net

SAT 09̶SUN 10 Cincinnati

Monster Jam The most action-packed motorsports experience for families in the world returns to Cincinnati for an adrenaline-charged weekend at the Heritage Bank Center. Witness heated rivalries, high-flying stunts and head-to-head battles for the Championship! • Location: Heritage Bank Center, monsterjam.com

SUN 10 Sensory Sundays @

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery’s Sensory Sunday program offers extended hours for local families with a member who has a sensory disorder, such as being on the autism spectrum. During these special hours, the Museum will adjust lighting and sound, have trained volunteers and additional staff, and offer programs that appeal to families who could benefit from a less stimulating atmosphere. • Location:

Arts Center, Time: 12 pm - 3pm, sharonvillecultural arts.org/

Outdoor Family Storytime Families are invited to join them outside to listen to a story brought to you by the Washington-Centerville Public Library and to participate in nature-themed activities following the story.

Families are encouraged to bring a blanket to sit on. • Location: Bill Yeck Park, Time: 10:30-11:30 am, cwpd.org

TUES 12 Zoo Blooms Look for bright

yellow and white daffodils blooming throughout the park.

Many varieties of red and yellow tulips are the first to bloom followed by the main bloom. More than 100,000 tulips provide every color you can imagine.

Complementing the blooming bulbs are thousands of blooming trees and shrubs. This is just a sampling of the variety and beauty that can be found at the Zoo! • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Time: 10 am- 5 pm, cincinnatizoo.org *ONGOING

Preschool Storytime Join them for stories, songs and other fun learning activities designed to develop the language, literacy and social skills your preschooler needs for school success. Geared toward ages 3 through 5.

• Location: Northwest Branch Library, Time: 10:30-11 am, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, Time: 10 am- Noon, boonshoftmuseum. org *SN

SAT, APRIL 02 BUNNYPALOOZA AT CALDWELL NATURE PRESERVE

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Cincinnati Reds Opening Day! Come celebrate and cheer on the Resd as they take on the Cleveland Guardians at our first home game of the season! • Location: Great American Ballpark, Time: 4:10pm, mlb.com/reds/tickets

WED 13 In Person Storytime:

KinderBridge Get ready for Kindergarten with stories, songs, and hands-on STEM activity stations! Enjoy a new theme each month.

Recommended for ages 3-6, and their caregiver(s). • Location: Green Township Branch Library, Time: 1:302:15 pm, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

THURS 14 Creative Crafting:

Wildflowers in the Preserves: Trillium Trails Join them for a hike into the Trillium Trails Nature Preserve as they search for wildflowers and other signs of spring. This two-hour hike involves some steep areas and off-trail walking. • Location: Trillium Trails, Time: 10 am- Noon, greatparks.org FREE

Easter Celebration @ The Cincinnati Zoo This egg-citing day is presented by Kinder Joy® and will feature animals receiving Easter-themed enrichment throughout the day plus a Find the Fiona Scavenger Hunt! Treat Stations will be on site and children can meet the Easter Bunny from 12pm-5pm! • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Time: 10 am- 5 pm, cincinnatizoo.org

SUN 17 39th Annual Easter Egg

FRI 15 Family Playdate Join in for an

pm, youngsdairy.com/easter-egg-hunt FREE

in-person playdate at the library! Come play, sing, and dance with your little one. Caregivers enjoy a cup of coffee on us. Recommended for ages 1-5. All abilities welcome. No registration required. • Location: Mt. Healthy Branch Library, Time: 10:30-11 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

Fan Appreciation Weekend @ Cincinnati Cyclones Cincinnati Cyclones would like to celebrate you the fans as they round out the 2021-2022 season with giveaways galore! • Location:

Hunt @ Youngs Dairy They will hard boil and dye over 7,000 eggs for the Easter Egg Hunt. This event starts promptly at 2 PM for children ages 4 and under. At 2:20 PM ages 5 to 7. At 2:40 PM is the final hunt for ages 8 to 10. • Location: Young’s Dairy, Time: 2

MON 18

Pop Up Program: Dance Party This program is for kids who love to move and dance around! You will dance to different songs, practice following directions, learn rhythm, and even develop your fine and gross motor skills. This program is not only fun, but it will help your child to develop early literacy skills! This program will be outside (weather permitting). • Location: West Carrollton Branch Library, Time: 10:30- 11 am, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

Heritage Bank Center, Time: 7:30, cycloneshockey.com

TUES 19 Greene Grasshoppers FRI 15̶SAT 16

Inside Out An evolution in real time, this work shifts everyone toward the future that we hope for in an engaging evening of three world premieres by the globe’s most stunning choreographers, rooted in DCDC's legacy and sponsored by the Ohio Arts Council. • Location: Aronoff Center, Time: see website for times, cincinnatiarts.org

SAT 16 Egg Hunt Join them for their

annual Egg Hunt with a twist! Instead of a traditional egg hunt, they will be holding a two-day egg scavenger hunt in the park. Eggs will be individually packaged and handed out by staff members to those who participate in the scavenger hunt. • Location: Washington Park, Time: Noon-4 pm, washingtonpark.org

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website for times, cincinnatiarts.org *ONGOING

THURS 21

Wiggle Worms – The World is Colorful The world is such a colorful place…from the color of trees to flowers that grow wild to animals that call that area home. Join them on this colorful scavenger hunt where their Wiggle Worms will move from station to station learning all about colors through exploration. • Location: James Ranch Park, Time 10 am- Noon, gcparkstrails.com FREE

Family Drop-In Activity Drop in to Southeast for a fun and easy craft for children of all ages.

All supplies will be provided – all you need to bring is your creativity! • Location: Southeast Branch Library, Time: 10 am- Noon, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

WED 20 Disney’s Frozen FROZEN is an unforgettable, magical adventure, which Newsday calls “a serious megahit with amazing special effects, eye-popping costumes, and incredible performances.” It’s a theatrical experience like no other, so let yourself go. • Location: Aronoff Center, Time: see

– Amphibious Adventures This month the Greene Grasshoppers won’t be doing DNA samples on amphibians, but they will be learning all about cold-blooded friends that are found in this area. Kids will get an up-close view of these amphibious friends. •

Show and Tell on the Farm - Earth Day is Every Day What can you do at home to help planet earth? Join them for some fun activities, crafts and live animal demonstrations, too. Registration requested, walk-ins welcome. • Location: Chrisholm MetroPark, Time: 2-3 pm, yourmetroparks.net FREE

FRI 22 Movie Party in the Park:

The Sandlot Are you ready for a spring evening of entertainment? Start out with interactive baseball games, crafts and fun around the park. Bring a glove and ball to join in the fun! Then grab dinner from the food trucks and claim a spot in the outfield with a picnic blanket and chairs. As the sun sets over the park, settle in to watch “The Sandlot” under the stars. • Location: Yankee Park, Time: 7-10 pm, cwpd.org

Cincinnati Reds VS St Louis Cardinals Come cheer on the Resd as they take on the St Louis Cardinals. Be sure to stay for Fireworks Friday! • Location: Great American Ballpark, Time: 6:40pm, mlb.com/reds/tickets

Location: James Ranch Park, Time: 6-8 pm, gcparkstrails. com FREE

FRI 22̶SUN 24 Sugar Maple

LEGO Tuesday Create your masterpiece with LEGO bricks, or do a LEGO Challenge with your friends. Ages 6-9. This program is limited to 10 participants. Registration is Required. • Location:

Location: Downtown Bellbrook, sugarmaplefestival.com

Northwest Branch Library, Time: 4-5:30 pm, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

Festival Come join the Bellbrook and Sugarcreek Township community as it celebrates the Annual Sugar Maple Festival in downtown Bellbrook. Entertainment includes live music, parade, children’s activities, crafts and food vendors, 5K run, dog show and more •

SUN, APRIL 17 39TH ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT AT YOUNG'S DAIRY

SAT 23 Art and Earth Day This year’s Art & Earth Day celebration includes a wide variety of programming scheduled throughout the entire day. Pyramid Hill will host bird and tree walks, a special Happy Hour at the Grand Pavilion with art and conservation-themed activities, and a student artist walk put on in conjunction with the University of Cincinnati.

• Location: Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum, Time: 9 am- 5 pm, pyramidhill.org/copy-of-artearth-day

Five River MetroParks’ Adopt-aPark Protect and clean green spaces in honor of Earth Day during Five Rivers MetroParks’ 2022 annual Adopt-a-Park. Volunteers of all ages, accessibility levels and backgrounds join forces during MetroParks’ largest annual day of service to make parks and river corridors healthier, more attractive and friendlier places to visit. • Location: Various Five Rivers MetroParks, Time: 9 amNoon, metroparks.org/make-a-difference/volunteer/ opportunities/adopt-a-park FREE

Heroines of Our History Celebrate some of the extraordinary women who lived in Ohio and made history! Meet reenactors in historical clothing portraying the following historical figures: Lillian Wald, Lucy Stone, Theda Bara, Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, Victoria Woodhull, Laura Anne Fry, Etsu Inagaki Sugimoto, Katharine Wright and Regina Berger Graeter. There will be vendors, hands-on activities and concessions available at this event! Admission is $10 adults, $5 children 5 - 11; free for members and children 4 and under. • Location: Heritage Village Museum, Time: 11 am - 5 pm, heritagevillagecincinnati.org/events/

Sensory Saturday @ Cincinnati Art Museum Join them for a socially distanced version of the Cincinnati Art Museum program for families with children who have developmental disabilities. Sensory Saturday will continue to begin before public hours, so families can enjoy a less crowded environment if they wish to do so. • Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, Time: 9:30-11:30 am, cincinnatiartmuseum.org *SN

SUN 24 Cincinnati Reds VS St

Louis Cardinals Every Sunday Reds home game is a Family Sunday presented by Klosterman Bakery! Families can save by purchasing up to three half-price tickets with the purchase of a full-price ticket in select areas of the ballpark. Plus, enjoy giveaways for kids, carnival games, family-friendly activities and more. • Location: Great American Ballpark, Time: 1:10pm, mlb. com/reds/tickets

MON 25 Library Babies Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories and movement.

Recommended for ages birth – 18 months. • Location: Anderson Branch Library, Time: 11:30 am- Noon, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

TUES 26 LEGO Night Bring your

imagination and create your own LEGO designs! • Location: Forest Park Branch Library, Time: 6-7 pm, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

WED 27 World of Imagination

– Rainbow of My Own The world around you can be anything you would like for it to be…if you just use your imagination! They will have story time at the Russ Nature Reserve followed by imaginative play in the Lovely Nature Playscape. So, bring along a blanket or some chairs, a snack or two and of course, your imagination. • Location: Russ Nature Reserve, Time: 10-11

The Music Man April 7 Through May 21.

Often described as a “perfect musical,” The Music Man has endured for generations as one of the most popular and unique pieces of theatre in American history. The Music Man is family entertainment at its best. The Tony Award-winning musical comedy has been entertaining audiences since 1957 and is a family-friendly story to be shared with old and young alike. • Location: La Comedia

am, gcparkstrails.com FREE

Dinner Theatre, lacomedia.com/event/musicman

THURS 28 Terrace Time at Main

Butterfly Show: Butterflies Along the Nile Through June 19. Welcome to Butterflies Along the Nile! Flutter with their beautiful butterflies and soar back in time in to the Ancient Egyptian Garden! Immerse yourself in the floral exhibit specifically designed to show just how lush and inviting the gardens of ancient Egypt could be. Inspiration was taken from actual paintings found in temples and tombs.

• Location: Krohn Conservatory, cincinnati-oh.gov/

Come visit the Children's Terrace at Main for arts, crafts, STEM activities and creative play. Themes and activities will change week to week and are designed to be completed in 20 minutes. Programs are weather dependent. • Location: Main Dayton Metro Library, Time: 2:30- 3:30 pm, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

FRI 29 Family Playdate Join in for a

playdate at the library! Come play, sing, and dance with your little one. Caregivers enjoy a cup of coffee on them.

Recommended for ages 1-5. All abilities welcome. No registration required. • Location: Mt. Healthy Branch Library, Time: 10:30- 11:30 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

SAT 30 Twist, Tie &

Dye Help them celebrate National Tie Dye Day by creating your own custom design in a beautiful park setting. Each paid registrant will get to choose one project that could range from a T-shirt to socks, to pillow cases and more.

Enjoy the art of creating colorful designs by twisting, tying and dyeing. Sizes, styles and quantities will be limited. • Location: Russ Nature Reserve, Time: 1- 3 pm, gcparkstrails.com

ONGOING EVENTS Zoo Blooms April 1-30. Look for bright yellow and white daffodils blooming throughout the park.

Many varieties of red and yellow tulips are the first to bloom followed by the main bloom. More than 100,000 tulips provide every color you can imagine.

Complementing the blooming bulbs are thousands of blooming trees and shrubs. This is just a sampling of the variety and beauty that can be found at the Zoo! • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, cincinnatizoo.org

Disney’s Frozen, the Broadway Musical April 20 Through May 1. FROZEN is an unforgettable, magical adventure, which Newsday calls “a serious megahit with amazing special effects, eye-popping costumes, and incredible performances.”

It’s a theatrical experience like no other, so let yourself go.

• Location: Aronoff Center, cincinnatiarts.org Spring Celebration Through May 28.

Celebrate spring with EnterTRAINment Junction.

Purchase a Do-It-All ticket to visit the world’s largest train exhibit and their famous A-Maze-N FunHouse PLUS get another ticket to visit them again for more fun on another day. • Location: EnterTRAINment Junction,

cincyparks

The Science Behind Pixar Through April 24. The interactive exhibition showcases the boundless limits of STEM, imagination and curiosity, thrilling you as you come face-to-face with popular characters, including Buzz Lightyear, Dory, Mike and Sulley, Edna Mode and WALL•E. • Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, cincymuseum.org/pixar

Escape the Village Monthly until September 17.

Escape the Village is an escape

room style challenge! Choose

from one of their two escape

room adventures “Morgan’s

Raiders of the Lost Art” or

“Leaving the Station.” • Location: Heritage Village Museum, heritagevillage cincinnati.org/events/ escape-the-village

APRIL 1-30 ZOO BLOOMS AT THE CINCINNATI ZOO

PLEASE NOTE WE WORK HARD TO ENSURE OUR CALENDAR AND GUIDE INFORMATION IS ACCURATE. OCCASIONALLY, EVENT SPECIFICS CHANGE AFTER WE GO TO PRESS. THEREFORE, WE ENCOURAGE OUR READERS TO CALL LOCATIONS OR VISIT THEM ON THE WEB TO VERIFY INFORMATION.

entertrainmentjunction.com

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SW OHIO PARENT'S

fun &

WACKY

calendar 04.2022

SUN

MON

TUES

WEDS

THURS

FRI

SAT

1 APRIL FOOLS’ DAY

4

3

5

6

7

UNICORN DAY CARAMEL DAY BOOKMOBILE DAY

10

9

8

CARROT DAY GEOLOGISTS DAY

2

WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY

11

12

BEAVER DAY

13

ZOO LOVERS DAY

14

15

16

GOLFER’S DAY NATIONAL PET DAY

17

GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH DAY

18 PINATA DAY

19 BICYCLE DAY

SCRABBLE DAY

DOLPHIN DAY

PASSOVER RECORD STORE DAY

20

21

23

22

BANANA DAY TALK LIKE SHAKESPEARE DAY

HIGH FIVE DAY EARTH DAY

24 SCREAM DAY

25 HUG A PLUMBER DAY

SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com

26 PRETZEL DAY

27 TELL A STORY DAY

28 SUPERHERO DAY

30

29 HAIRBALL AWARENESS DAY

OATMEAL COOKIE DAY

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