Talking to Kids About Disabilities

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.

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.

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: 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.

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 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.

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.”

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.

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.”

Citizens of the World Charter School

Our model focuses on social and emotional learning, project based learning, and difference and inclusion. We empower children to think critically and learn to engage respectfully and productively with fellow students by developing their capacity to enter into and understand the lives of others. • 4324 Homer Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45227, Contact: Executive Director, Phone: (513) 445-4793, Email: recruitment@cwcschools.org,

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

The Campus at Kids First

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 and nurturing a love for life-long learning. Individualized curriculum customized for each student, expansive naturally lit rooms, low student ratio. Specials include yoga, music, Hebrew, Spanish, dance, drama, art and Tae Kwon Do. Flexible schedules, before and aftercare, web cams and after-school enrichment available. Transportation available to/from Mason schools. Limited space - now enrolling! • 7587 Central Parke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040, Phone: (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

Little Sprouts Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten

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

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,

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 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,

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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 float away feeling beautiful and loved. We have incredible volunteers 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 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.

Our offices will nearly double in space in early April. We will move up to the fifth floor 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.

Please check out our website for further information on FLOC at flocdayton.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.

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.

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 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.

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

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.

DUDE RANCHERS’ ASSOCIATION

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

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 MON 04 Movers and Shakers You 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,

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

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,

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

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,

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,

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 Arts Center, Time: 12 pm - 3pm, sharonvillecultural

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

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,

MON 11 Pop-Up Nature Fun: An 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

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

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,

SAT, APRIL 02 BUNNYPALOOZA AT CALDWELL NATURE PRESERVE

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: 1:30- 2:15 pm, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

THURS 14 Creative Crafting: 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

FRI 15 Family Playdate Join in for an 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,

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

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 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,

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

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

TUES 19 Greene Grasshoppers – 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. • Location: James Ranch Park, Time: 6-8 pm, gcparkstrails.

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: Northwest Branch Library, Time: 4-5:30 pm,

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 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

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

FRI 22̶SUN 24 Sugar Maple 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 • Location: Downtown Bellbrook, sugarmaplefestival.com

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-art-

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 am- Noon, metroparks.org/make-a-difference/volunteer/

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,

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.

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,

TUES 26 LEGO Night Bring your imagination and create your own LEGO designs! • Location: Forest Park Branch Library, Time: 6-7 pm,

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 am, gcparkstrails.com FREE

THURS 28 Terrace Time at Main 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,

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

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,

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 Dinner Theatre, lacomedia.com/event/musicman

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/

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,

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

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.

APRIL FOOLS’ DAY WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY

GEOLOGISTS DAY

CARROT DAY

CARAMEL DAY

BOOKMOBILE DAY

BEAVER

DAY

ZOO LOVERS

DAY UNICORN DAY

GOLFER’S DAY

NATIONAL PET DAY

GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH DAY

PINATA DAY BICYCLE DAY

SCREAM DAY HUG A PLUMBER DAY PRETZEL DAY

TELL A STORY DAY SUPERHERO DAY

HAIRBALL AWARENESS DAY

OATMEAL COOKIE DAY

SCRABBLE DAY

DOLPHIN DAY PASSOVER

RECORD STORE DAY

BANANA DAY

HIGH FIVE DAY

EARTH DAY

TALK LIKE SHAKESPEARE DAY