Cincinnati Parent // 05.2011

may 2011 * cincinnatiparent.com

cincy on a budget:

one tank getaways

EXPLORING CHILDREN'S

MENTAL HEALTH

tiger parenting on the field

Taming the Beast Within at Youth Competitions

SUMMER FUN

IN CINCY CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 1

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 3

May 2011 10

SUMMER FUN IN CINCY

COMMENTARY & PARENTING * PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Embracing Parenthood

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MOMMY MAGIC: The Mom Oath

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CAMP FEATURE: The Joy of Being a Camp Parent

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DEAR TEACHER: Your Questions of Teachers—Answered

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* NEWS & SHOPPING

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CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH

NEWS YOU CAN USE: News, Contests, Celebrations and More

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FACEBOOK TALK : Spring Break Photo Contest Pictures and More

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HEALTH & WELLNESS * WOMEN’S HEALTH: Suffering from Pelvic Pain

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ONE-TANK-GETAWAYS

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WOMEN'S HEALTH: Women's Mental Health

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PEDIATRIC HEALTH: Choosing a Pediatrician

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AROUND TOWN * PROFILE: Celebrate Mother's Day

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* RESOURCES

SUMMER FUN GUIDE

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SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

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CHILDCARE & EDUCATION GUIDE

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CALENDAR

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CLASSIFIEDS

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FUN & WACKY CALENDAR

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Ask t he St a f f:

TIGER PARENTING

what do you look most forward to doing this summer?

Playing golf, beautiful walks & bike riding!

Lots of swimming and cookouts!

Riding roller coasters!

Going to the beach!

O W E NDY C

Going to Holiday World with my family!

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Some good family time!

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H E AT HER

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KARA BLU

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Cookouts and taking my little guy swimming!

2 Family Reunions!

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M E G A N K I RSC

K A R E N R I NG

R O X A N NE

SK I

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KATIE PFIER

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Grilling out and Summer walks!!

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CO MM E N TA RY & PA R E N T I N G

PUBLISHER & PRESIDENT OF SALES & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Mary Wynne Cox

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Publisher’s Note

Embracing Parenthood

Praise your children for good actions

publisher@cincinnatiparent.com

MANAGING EDITOR Megan Kirschner

megan@cincinnatiparent.com

ART DIRECTION & DESIGN Heather Lipe

heather@cincinnatiparent.com

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Katie Pfierman katie@cincinnatiparent.com

SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Jennica Zalewski jennica@cincinnatiparent.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Kara Blum kara@cincinnatiparent.com

ACCOUNTANT Roxanne Burns

roxanne@cincinnatiparent.com

EVENTS COORDINATOR & PUBLIC RELATIONS Wendy Cox wendy@cincinnatiparent.com

APPY MAY CINCINNATI Parents! This is the month where many of us plant colorful f lowers to enjoy all summer long. Just as we fertilize and water our f lowers to produce the fullest blossoms, we must remember how important the loving structure we give our children is to help them grow into responsible adults.

experiencing. They must be encouraged to believe that the future will be bright for those who work hard and persevere.

When you see or hear your child do an act of kindness, praise them. When they come down to breakfast on time with a few chores done, praise them.

It's the little things that can make a difference, and children learn more from positive reinforcement.

Likewise, giving your children responsibilities they can handle is important. Sometimes the responsibilities need to be shared. Don't be a martyr by doing them yourself. Instead, praise your child for helping in all areas of your home.

When your child questions newspaper stories or the often violent reporting on the news, praise them for having empathy and then try to explain the news the best way you can. Today's news topics can be very stressful to children who hear about the tsunami in Japan to gunfire in war zones and the constant news commentary about uncertain times we are

Parents are the primary teachers of their children. The first five years are the most important formative years for children. They will observe your reading, eating and exercise habits because they want to be like you, because they know that will please you.

In laying a good foundation for your child, consider a commitment to religious faith or joining family-oriented mentoring groups and organizations in your community. Most churches or family programs have classes and activities that build moral values and also create new friendships through peer groups that help build self-confidence.

Additionally, having activities that you do together as a family is ideal. This can include attending

church together or participating in familyoriented programs, going to athletic events, going to the movies, visiting grandparents, working in the yard, taking a walk or riding bicycles together.

During all of these activities, your children will have a family bonding experience and lots of fun, too. They need to feel valued, so ask them to help out on these outings. Unconditional love is the goal for families to share with each other.

There are so many great events you can do with your family during the month of May! Visit the Cincinnati Zoo, Kings Island, BB Riverboats (take a family cruise), the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad, CoCo Key Water Resort, a Reds Game, the Newport Aquarium, Fountain Square, and so many other fabulous Cincinnati great gems.

Cincinnati Parent wishes all of our readers a wonderful month of May with their families.

Enjoy the beautiful weather and activities.

—Mary Cox

OFFICE MANAGER Karen Ring

karen@cincinnatiparent.com

Cincinnati Parent 9435 Waterstone Blvd, Suite 140 Cincinnati, OH 45249 513.444.2015 (ph) 513.444.2099 (fx) info@cincinnatiparent.com Copyright: Cincinnati Parent Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2008 by Cincinnati Parent and 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. For information on subscriptions, editorial guidelines, advertising rates and more visit www. cincinnatiparent.com

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 5

N E WS & SH O PPI N G

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news you can use GIVE YOUR STUFF AWAY DAY;

Free stuff all over the place

On May 14th, place your unwanted possessions at the end of your curb for Give Your Stuff Away Day, taking place all over the world (hopefully). This event could help millions. Some guidelines: no trash, recyclables, illegal or dangerous items. No food, drugs, chemicals, or weapons. Just safe, valuable items that you would like to donate. Then watch the fun, or better yet, take a walk around the neighborhood and f ind some free stuff you can use yourself. This event will create the world's largest giveaway/ recycling event, so be a part of it.

May 7 from 9am to 5pm at Morgan's Canoe and Outdoor Adventures

FIRST ANNUAL

Family Float Fest

The first annual Family Float Fest benefits Centerpoint Health’s Camp and other children’s programming, and will take place at Morgan's Canoe and Outdoor Adventures in Brookville, Ind., on Saturday, May 7 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This is a great event for families and paddling enthusiasts. The price is $25 per adult, $75 for family of 4, and $10 for each additional child. Event highlights: 3-4 hour river float on either a canoe, kayak or raft; Pig roast; Music/entertainment; Nature hikes; Raffle prizes and more.

For transportation, on-going livery services will be provided to the lodge/food fest.

Princess Themed Birthday & Tea Parties Looking for a unique and unforgettable birthday experience for your little girl? In the quaint town of Lebanon, Ohio sits The Enchanted Village~ A place where your daughter is given the royal treatment & birthday dreams come true. The Enchanted Village features a Narnia & Fairy Garden Room where imaginations soar. The birthday girl is given a magic key to unlock the magic upstairs- a tea room, dress-up room, and kitchen all decorated by our wonderful fairies- think pink and sparkly! The best part-parents just take pictures and enjoy watching everyone have a great time!

The Enchanted Village is hosting a Mother's Day Tea Party! Come and play dressup, do a craft, decorate cookies and enjoy a light snack with your special girl(s). This celebration will be held on Friday May 6th at 6pm. Space is limited so reservations are required. Please call 513-477-2368 for more information or to book. Price is $30 per child. ($20 for siblings). This party is best suited for girls ages 4-9.

For more information about The Enchanted Village Princess Birthday & Tea Parties email us attheenchantedvillage@gmail.com Website coming soon!

Mathnasium of Blue Ash to Host

NATIONAL TRIMATHLON

Mathnasium of Blue Ash will be hosting its first National TriMathlon on May 14th, a math competition for children in grades 3 - 6, that will test their number sense while showing kids that math can be fun! The event is free and prizes will be awarded for the top scorers of each grade. Top scorers will be compared with kids across the country, and national winners will split $10,000 in prizes! Parents can register their children at www.mathnasiumtrimathlon.com, or stop by Mathnasium of Blue Ash to fill out a brochure. Contact

Chip

at (513) 984-1212 or at blueash@mathnasium.com

Great American Backyard Campout, Sponsored by National Wildlife Federation We need to give back to our children what they don’t even know they’ve lost, a connection to the natural world. Have your family participate in the 7th annual Great American Backyard Campout on June 25. National Wildlife Federation’s fundraising event encourages parents and kids alike to trade screen time for green time by spending a night under the stars. For those looking to camp beyond their own backyard, the Campout website helps locate organized Campouts across the country. www.backyardcampout.org

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CO MM E N TA RY & PA R E N T I N G

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mommy magic

The Mom Oath

In honor of mothers everywhere After I unplugged my sweeper and started to wind up the cord, it dawned on me that I think I love it because my family actually stops for a day and expresses their appreciation. It is not the gifts that get to me, but rather their appreciation for what I do on a daily basis as a mom.

Typically, as moms, we make it all look like no big deal. It is a big deal though.

A very big deal. It got me thinking that rather than waiting for the one day a year that is designated to moms and feeling appreciated and special, we need to do it more on a regular basis. We need to remind ourselves that we are in fact, awesome!

IN PREPARATION FOR writing my column for this issue, I was thinking about why I love Mother’s Day. Of course, I was vacuuming my house while I was contemplating this very notion.

I always get to sleep in on Mother’s Day and I love catching up on sleep, but that wasn’t it. My kids always bring me breakfast in bed and I love their thoughtfulness, but that was not it either.

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So in honor of moms everywhere, I wrote The Mom Oath. I hope you get a grin from reading it and remember how very awesome you are! Happy Mother’s Day! THE MOM OATH Why take an oath, you ask? To take an oath means to swear solemnly or vow. Lawyers take an oath to practice law, we take vows when we get married promising to be faithful for better or for worse. Perhaps

we should take an oath (to ourselves) as – I am awesome. I promise that sounding mothers. If such a formal oath existed, I like my mother when I discipline my kids would hope it would go something like this: doesn’t make me feel like I am losing my Today I tried my best. Although I feel exhausted and sometimes defeated by the time I have put away the laundry for the 84th time, I vow to celebrate how awesome I am as a mom. No need to focus on the fact that I have not gone to the bathroom alone in years – I am awesome. I believe that staying up until midnight labeling every item of clothing my child owns before she goes to camp will make a difference before they trash their “camp clothes” – I am awesome. I will not feel guilty that my kids have only consumed chicken nuggets and mac n’ cheese the past two weeks – I am awesome. I believe that starting my Christmas shopping for my kids in July is not crazy, but a necessity in order to get it all done by December – I am awesome.

I vow not to get depressed and shake my head when it takes them 1.2 seconds to unwrap all the Christmas gifts I so lovingly wrapped – I am awesome. I will not allow the fact that my college degree is being put to use as a chauffeur (without any tip)

mind – I am awesome. I vow to let go of the notion that perfection can be maintained everyday - I am awesome. I will, from this day forward, enjoy the moments of perfection and celebrate the magic of life’s imperfections - I am awesome. I vow to NOT be so hard on myself each day - I am awesome. I will try when I go to bed each night to think of all the 384 things I did RIGHT as a mom today vs. the ONE thing that I did WRONG today - I am awesome.

I vow to try to laugh more and be stressed less - I am awesome. Most of all, I will promise to believe in myself, for I know little eyes are watching me, and in order to teach them that they are awesome, I must first believe that I AM AWESOME! MARY SUSAN Buhner is a Life Coach for Moms and author of “Mommy Magic: Tricks for Staying Sane in the Midst of Insanity” Visit www.Mommy-Magic. com for more information. Become a Fan of Mommy Magic on FaceBook!

A DV ER TI SEM EN T

H E A LT H & W E LLN E SS

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women's health

Suffering from Pelvic Pain Advice and treatment for women

PELVIC PAIN IS fairly common in women. Many things can cause such pain, but what are they? And more importantly, what can be done about them? Knowing the facts and knowing your body can ease the anguish and worry that pelvic pain can cause.

Physicians at The Christ Hospital offer a full range of advice, preventive care and treatment for women’s gynecological problems that can cause pelvic pain.

One of the most common conditions that can cause lower abdominal and/ or pelvic pain is uterine fibroids. It is estimated that between 20 to 50 percent of women of reproductive age have fibroids, although not all are diagnosed.

Fibroids are compact tumors that are made of the muscle cells and fibrous tissue in the uterus. They can range in size from anywhere as tiny as a pea to the size of a grapefruit. In most cases (more than 99 percent) the tumors are benign.

Symptoms in addition to pelvic pain may include heavy, painful menstrual

periods, abnormal bleeding, lower back pain and frequent urination.

include pain, abnormal or heavy menstrual flow, fatigue, and gastrointestinal problems.

The majority of fibroids don’t need to be treated, but treatment for more severe cases may include surgery to remove the fibroids or in some cases a hysterectomy.

Another newer treatment is called uterine artery embolization (UAE), a newer minimally-invasive technique in which the arteries supplying blood to the fibroids are identified, then “embolized” or blocked off, thereby cutting off the blood supply to the fibroids and shrinking them.

Treatment for endometriosis varies depending on the severity of the disease.

For less severe cases, pain medication or hormone therapy may be prescribed.

Heating pads, warm baths and exercise can also help ease pain. In more severe cases, surgery may be required.

Another common cause of pelvic pain in women is endometriosis. In fact, an estimated 2 to 10 percent of women who are of childbearing age can have endometriosis.

Endometriosis happens when the tissue that usually builds up in the uterus during a regular menstrual cycle also begins to build up outside the uterus and on neighboring organs. As this tissue builds up, the surrounding tissues become swollen and inflamed. Symptoms can vary but may

Many gynecological surgeries can now be performed minimally invasively with the help of a laparoscope, a thin tube with a lens and a light that is inserted into an incision in the abdominal wall, or with the help of a surgical robot. Using the laparoscope or the magnified 3D images, the surgical robot can provide to see into the pelvic area, and physicians—under certain circumstances, can remove the endometrial growths.

To achieve the best results for treatment of both fibroids and endometriosis, it’s important to diagnosis it early. Never ignore symptoms. Watching your diet, exercising and having regular checkups are the best preventive measures.

As always, consult with your personal physician to determine treatments that are right for you. To learn more about services available at The Christ Hospital or to find a doctor who specializes in minimally invasive gynecological techniques, call (513) 5851000 or visit thechristhospital.com/women.

REBECCA TODD is a freelance writer and the author of the book “What’s the Point?”

Contact her at btodd@tds.net.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 9

SUMMER FUN

IN CINCY

ALL OF THE UPCOMING FESTIVALS, EVENTS & FAMILY ACTIVITIES

SCHOOL IS LETTING OUT SOON, and the kids can’t wait, but after the first few days of excitement, you might start hearing, “There’s nothing to do.” Well guess what…there is plenty to do this summer in the Tri-state, and we’re sharing with you a whole summer’s worth of events so your kids will never be bored.

10 CINCINNATI PARENT * MAY 2011

Stop by Fountain Square on May 7 & 8 for Cincy-Cinco, Cincinnati’s biggest Latino festival.

Neil Comber, founder and co-chair of the festival said, “This is a very family-oriented festival intended for both Hispanic and non-Hispanic families to enjoy some Latino culture.”

There will be dancing and food from various Latin American countries, and for the kids, there will be traditional crafts and a costume parade on Saturday, May 7. For more information, go to www.cincy-cinco.com For some cute and cuddly fun, head to the Cincinnati Zoo in May for the 25th annual Zoo Babies.

Look for baby armadillos, a penguin named Herschey, Adams the wallaby, and Clara the bonobo, just to name a few. Each weekend there will be visits from special guests such as Clifford the Big Red Dog, Curious George, and Sister from the Berenstain Bears.

Starting on May 21, you can also check out a new exhibit at the zoo called Night Hunters.

It uses special effects to immerse visitors into the night world of predators. The exhibit will feature leopards, foxes, bearcats, aardvarks and bats.

The whole family can also get up close and personal with some animal friends at Wild Wednesdays at Middleton-Mills Park in Covington. The program starts May 4 and ends August 31, and along the way, your children can enjoy a bird show, reptiles, alpacas and even kangaroos. Wild Wednesdays are free, but visitors are asked to bring a non-perishable item to help families in need. For more information, go to www.kentoncounty.org.

During Memorial Day weekend, fill up at the Taste of Cincinnati. This is the 32nd year for the event making it the nation’s longest running food festival. Five new restaurants have been added to the lineup this year. Every entrée is $5 or less and there’s no charge to get in. Parents with small children will love the Pampers Stroller Lane, making it easier to navigate the festival. They’ll also love the new team of Bounty Quicker Picker Uppers who will keep all the seating areas clean.

For the sports lovers in your home, there is plenty of fun to be found this summer. In addition to the Cincinnati Reds and Florence Freedom games, you’ll f ind a lot of other choices. Sharon Woods will host an old-time baseball game on June 11. Shelly Gregg of the Heritage Village Museum said the Cincinnati Red Stockings will take on the Cincinnati Buckeyes. See how the game was played in its early days. (No gloves!) There will be three games that day starting at 10 a.m. and wrapping up at 3 p.m.

If you like water sports, head to Paddlefest, the largest canoe and kayak event in the country. It takes place June 23-25 at Coney Island. Families will love the Kids Outdoor Adventure expo on June 23. Paddlefest chair, Brewster Rhoads, said Paddlefest has become the largest nature education and water safety event for children in the Midwest. The program is free and features a towboat tour, a weather exhibit, paddling with Marines, f ishing, hiking and children will learn where their drinking water comes from and how they can take care of the environment.

Details are available at www.ohioriverway.org.

And for those who love racing action, there’s motorcyle, ATV, speedway and go-kart racing

“

This is just the tip of the

iceberg for summer fun. For more great ideas, be sure to check CINCINNATI PARENT’S MONTHLY CALENDAR for other events, classes and more!

”

every Friday night at the Lawrenceburg Motorcycle Speedway. The season starts in May. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids.

Children under age six are free. Your ticket will also get you a pit pass to meet all of the racers!

If history is your passion, check out the Civil War Weekend at the Heritage Village Museum May 21 & 22. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the beginning of the war and this reenactment will feature soldiers from both sides of the battle. There will even be appearances by President Abraham Lincoln! Tickets are $7 for adults and $4 for children ages 5 through 11. Tell your children to wear their scout uniform, and you’ll save a buck on admission.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 11

In Warren County, Landen Deerfield Park will host movies and concerts on summer weekends. The complete schedule is available at www.co.warren.oh.us/parks/

the area’s German roots is Glier’s Goettafest. This food festival is also at Newport’s Riverfront Levee.

From August 5-7, you can enjoy all things goetta… including the goetta slide, goetta ring toss and the world’s only goetta vending machine!

Abe Lincoln will also make an appearance at the 24th annual Juneteenth Celebration in Eden Park June 18 & 19. This event celebrates the end of slavery in America. Organizer, Lydia Morgan, said there will be reenactment groups, including a visit from abolitionist and Civil War spy, Harriet Tubman. You can also enjoy horseback riding, a sweet potato pie contest, a drumline showcase and a parade of f lags featuring the f lags of every country where people were taken into slavery from and the countries they were taken to. Children will receive a free book at the event.

Take a culinary trip around the world without leaving the Tri-state. Start in Newport June 9-12 for Italian Fest. The kids will love the pizza-eating contest.

Greece is the next stop on the list at the 37th annual Panegyri Greek Festival June 24-26 at the Holy Trinity-St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Finneytown. Parish administrator, Eugene Nicholas, offers this insider tip: late afternoons and Sundays are the least crowded and best days for families. After Greece, enjoy Cincinnati’s German heritage from July 15-17 at the 1st Annual Queen City Sausage Fest at Newport’s Riverfront Levee (below the Newport Aquarium). There will be plenty of sausage dishes, rides for the kids, and a brat-eating contest. Another nod to

12 CINCINNATI PARENT * MAY 2011

For the arts lovers in your family, check out the 44th annual Summerfair at Coney Island June 3-5.

Summerfair features artists from around the country showcasing their work. There are crafts for the kids, performances and great food. Tickets are $10, and children under age 12 get in free.

Another option, is the Cincinnati Children’s Choir’s annual Summer Festival gala concert at the Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music’s Corbett Auditorium on July 30th.

Mary Kay Koehler, executive director of the Children’s Choir, said about 250 children from all over the Tri-state will perform at the concert.

For ticket information, call 513-556-0338.

There are plenty of free movies to see at area parks this summer as well. In Boone County, movie night starts June 3rd at dusk. Each Friday will feature a different f ilm. Go online to f ind the schedule and park locations. www.boonecountyky.org/parks Colerain Township has family movie nights, too, on the second and fourth Friday nights starting June 10th. The f irst Friday night of each month will be a Teen Movie Night, which includes both a concert and teen movies. For more information, go to www.coleraintwp.org.

Finally, there are free flicks on Sunday nights on Fountain Square. There’s a movie every Sunday except July 10. On the 4th of July, you can watch a movie AND see a f ireworks show afterward!

Speaking of f ireworks, there are big displays around town on 4th of July weekend. Red, White & Blue Ash is on July 3rd at Glendale-Milford Road and the Reed Hartman Highway. The party starts at 2 p.m and ends at 10:35 p.m. There will be rides, games, clowns, a concert featuring Kenny Loggins and of course, f ireworks!

Thirty thousand people are expected at the f ireworks display at Colerain Township’s Government Complex.

There’s free parking at Northgate Mall and Colerain Middle School and High School will have shuttles transporting people to the show. Tawanna Molter of Colerain Township Parks said before the show, your kids can have their faces painted and do crafts.

Fireworks aren’t the only things f illing the skies in July. There are two hot air balloon festivals this month as well. The LaRosa’s Balloon Glow at Coney Island is July 3rd. Later in the month, July 15-17, Middletown will host the MidUSA Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival. It features balloon f lights, skydiving and a circus workshop.

August is busy, too. Lebanon hosts its Blues Festival on August 6th. Bring your lawn chairs and your kids.

There’s great music for everyone and a playground for the little ones. The Great Inland Seafood Festival is August 11-14 on Riverboat Row in Newport, and nearly 100,000 people from around Cincinnati and the Midwest will be here Aug 19-21 for the 23rd annual Midwest Black Family Reunion.

Organizer, Cassandra Robinson, said there will be a parade in Avondale on Saturday morning. Plus, there will be music and booths – including children’s and teen’s pavilions – at Riverfront Park from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For details, go to www.midwestbfrc.com.

This is just the tip of the iceberg for summer fun. For more great ideas, be sure to check Cincinnati Parent’s monthly calendar for other events, classes and more!

AMY HOLTZMAN is a writer, producer and mom of three living in Northern Kentucky and is a graduate of Xavier University, Class of '92.

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Cincinnati Parent Facebook requires its users to be at least 13 years of age. But children even younger are creating accounts every day. What age do you think is appropriate for Facebook users?

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Kim Marks Johnson High School at least. Even then... In our

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house they will also have to have us as a friend so we can monitor.

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Micki Henderson 13 is a good age. That’s a teenager and teenagers are so social..this is perfect for them.

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set up a facebook account and she is only 10! Several of her friends have tried to “friend” me and I refuse. I told her there would be NO facebook accounts until she is 16. Just seems like there is too much on fb that children don’t need to be connected with and opens them up to things much too young in my opinion.

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SUMMER FUN GUIDE MISS AMANDA'S MUSIC GARDEN Classes held at 3766 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45220 Contact: Amanda O'Bannon Phone: 513-221-SING (7464) Email: missamanda@fuse.net www.MissAmandasMusic.com Area of Expertise: Music classes for Babies, Toddlers and Preschoolers Cost: All on our website!

Dates/Hours: A 4-week session starting July 5th.

Ages/Grades: 2-weeks to 4 1/2 years.

This summer come join other parents in a weekly Musikgarten class with your baby, toddler and/or preschooler.

We will explore music through folk singing dancing and playing ageappropriate instruments, laying the groundwork for a life-long love of music.

OHIO CHALLENGE HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL Parking Entrance: 1800 Germantown Road/Middletown Regional Airport, Middletown, OH 45042 Contact: Ann Mort, Communications Phone: 513-705-1770 Email: info@ohiochallenge.com www.ohiochallenge.com Area of Expertise: Hot Air Ballooning Cost: $8 parking includes free admission for all occupants OR $3 adult walk-in admission; Limited RV overnight parking Dates/Hours: July 15, 4-10pm; July 16, 7-11 am and 4-10 pm; July 17, 7-11 am.

Field trips available: Groups welcome

Ages/Grades: All ages/ Family friendly event Hot Air Balloons compete early morning and evening, Purple People Eater balloon joins the regular shapes, balloon glows after dark, skydivers, circus workshop, arts and crafts, music, classic car show, carnival, festival foods and much more.

Parking at airport with free shuttle.

Playground, splash pad, skate park.

PARTY HOPPERS 5170 Delhi Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45238 Contact: Aimee McBride, Owner Phone: 513-451-4386 Email: aimee@ partyhoppersonline.com www.PartyHoppersOnline.com Area of Expertise: Play and Party

Center and Inflatable Rentals Cost: Rentals vary by size.

Dates/Hours: Delivery available every day.

Field trips available: Field trips are welcome at our indoor play and party center in Delhi.

Ages/Grades: Up to age 15 Party Hoppers delivers to your home, school, church, camp or neighborhood party! Bouncers, Combos, Slides, Water Slides, Slip n Slides, Concessions, Party Assistants and everything you need for your outdoor party!

YOUR LISTING HERE! To be included in one of our informative (and fun!) directories, please contact Katie at Katie@ CincinnatiParent.com CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 13

Celebrate

Mother's Day

Local events for you & your family VERY YEAR DURING the month of May, families play tribute to the special women in their lives, their mothers. Mother’s Day comes once a year, and while taking the time to appreciate your mothers for their love and kindness this year, there are some options for you to partake in as greater Cincinnati’s area attractions, spas and restaurants offer a variety of celebration opportunities for mothers of all ages.

ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS The Cuyahoga Valley National Park Scenic Railroad is offering discounted tickets over Mother’s Day weekend for the Peninsula Depot, Akron Northside and Canal Visitor Center excursions. The train rides take passengers throughout the 33,000 acres of the national park along the Cuyahoga River between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio.

On May 8th, take Mom on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway’s (CVSR) “Tour of the Line”. Climb aboard at CVSR's Canton Lincoln Highway Station for a 102-mile round-trip scenic tour of the line.

All passengers will receive a box lunch, a stop at the

14 CINCINNATI PARENT * MAY 2011

Canal Visitor Center and at least one photo run by.

The trips are a fundraiser for the maintenance on their rail equipment and the Union Depot Museum.

The Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati (ETC) will perform “25 The Musical”, which showcases 25 years of ETC’s greatest hits, and is sung by the best voices ever to grace their stage. This mustsee musical celebration of the past 25 years is 90 minutes in duration and is appropriate for all ages.

Mary Poppins, the quintessential mother’s right hand in the Disney favorite film, comes to life in Columbus’ Ohio Theatre. Performances begin Wednesday, April 20 and lasts through Sunday, May 8. Ticket prices start as low as $22.50. Special VIP Ticket packages are available at select performances and include premium seating and a complimentary souvenir program.

In the Hyde Park area, Ambience Salon and Spa offers Mother and Daughter spa packages as well as a Refresh, Revitalize and Renew package.

A Caring Place, a pregnancy crisis and education center located in Clermont County, is hosting their second annual Mother’s Day Ladies Afternoon Tea and Fashion Show Fundraiser on Saturday, May 21 at Receptions Banquet and Conference Center in Eastgate, Ohio.

“We will host dozens of vendors and equal amounts of prizes for guests attending. The event will be from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and tickets are $25 each,” Shawna Dunn, executive director of A Caring Place said.

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCHES Although Aston Oaks Golf Club & Oak Leaf Restaurant is traditionally reserved for Father’s Day, it also hosts an extravagant Mother’s Day brunch this year on Sunday, May 8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“Our buffet includes custom omelet and waffle stations, Mediterranean vegetable lasagna and comfort food for all generations,” Shannon Seaton, banquet coordinator said.

“Our banquet facility is surrounded by windows that overlook the golf course, our gazebo and waterfall. This year we are

offering free professional photos for the families.”

The Polo Grille is another place to venture for a Mother’s Day brunch. The Polo Grille is an independent, chefdriven Cincinnati restaurant. This year, The Polo Grille offers a Mother’s Day brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and kids eat free with an adult. For dinner, bring the entire family for their full menu and entertainment from the Magician Brett Sears.

If day-long travels to relative’s homes are in store for your mother, be sure to tap into some of these events or book a day at a local day spa and schedule something just for her.

NIKKI KEEVER is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three from Noblesville, Indiana.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 15

exploring children's

MENTAL HEALTH FACING THE FAC TS

OOD DISORDERS in children, such as anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder, affect more than 10 percent of America’s youth, and with the hard economic times and divorce rates at an all-time high, the number of mood disorders seen in children has risen.

“I think what we are going to see in a few years in these economic situations is more anxiety [disorders],” said Mike Robinson, manager of specialized treatment services at The Children’s Home in Cincinnati. “Children have a tendency to be very egocentric and tend to blame themselves. It’s internalized and so it’s how depression and anxiety starts with kids.”

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, research indicates that depression onset is occurring earlier in life today than it has been in past decades. Early-onset depression often persists, recurs, and continues into adulthood, and sometimes early-onset depression can turn into a more severe mental illness when the child grows older.

Often times, professionals come across parents who do not want to admit that their child has a problem. Robinson stressed that this attitude is prejudice to mental health. “[Mental illness] is similar to physical illness, they shouldn't be seen as any different,” Robinson said. “If your kid was diagnosed with junior diabetes, you would have no problem getting treatment. So if they’re diagnosed with depression, what’s the difference? Both can be life threatening, both be can treated, why not fix it.”

16 CINCINNATI PARENT * MAY 2011

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 17

Another issue often argued when diagnosing mental health issues in children is that it can be both overdiagnosed and misdiagnosed. Many doctors agree that mental illness can be overlooked and written off, and instead it is seen as children just misbehaving.

“The big misconception among parents and children when it comes to mental illness is that there is a magical medication out there that will fix all that is wrong. Some of the

treated like “little adults”, where people believe that if a medication works for an adult it will work for a child at a lower dose. But this is not the case. Robinson stressed that medication for children should never be experimented with and should always be monitored by a professional.

other misconceptions are the beliefs that the

“I think sometimes people misattribute signs and symptoms to parenting patterns or to environmental circumstances or stressors,” said Dr. Jeffrey Strawn, assistant professor of psychiatry and pediatrics at UC Academic Center. “The reality is, many of these kids have significant functional and social impairments.”

David Katkin LPCC, specializes in the treatment of adolescents, marital/couples issues, depression and the diagnosis, testing and treatment of Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder at Katkin and Associations in Milford, Ohio.

Katkin said there are many misconceptions with mental illnesses in children. “The big misconception among parents and children when it comes to mental illness is that there is a magical medication out there that will fix all that is wrong. Some of the other misconceptions are the beliefs that the mental illness is an excuse and to blame for all the child's negative behaviors. “

mental illness is an excuse and to blame for all the child's negative behaviors. “ —David Katkin, LPCC, Katkin and Associates

said, “Middle and upper class folks are embarrassed something may be wrong with their child at an emotional level,” and some parents believe that their child will ‘snap’ out of it.

Robinson suggests for parents to not relate their child’s mental illness to something embarrassing, or to put the blame on the child, but rather to do what’s necessary to fix the illness.

Katkin also commented on parents’ behavior and said, “Some parents do quite well and are eager to embrace treatment methods to get their child better or to accommodate the child's needs. However, some parents go into denial mode.”

Dr. Melissa DelBello, who specializes in child and adolescent psychiatry at UC Academic Health Center, added that sometimes there are instances where patients are overdiagnosed, but said, “We want to make sure these kids have access and are seen by healthcare professionals who can differentiate from adolescent moodiness rather than a mood disorder,” she said. “If we don't diagnose kids with mood disorders there’s a significantly higher mortality rate, and a higher risk of suicide if not diagnosed before [age] 18.”

There are many treatments for mood disorders depending on the child and their environment. Therapy and medication are the most common forms in helping a child deal with their anxiety and depression issues

There are many misconceptions with children suffering from mental illnesses. Robinson commented on his experiences and

However, treating a child with medication is very controversial.

Robinson said children are sometimes developmentally

18 CINCINNATI PARENT * MAY 2011

“A lot of times these kids are labeled as bad kids or in juvenile detention or legal trouble,” DelBello said. “If they’re on the right medications or right therapy, it can have a profound affect or outcome on their life.”

Katkin said he believes that parents should seek out a trained mental health professional when it comes to the treatment and diagnosis of their child.

Just like any other illness, physical or mental, a child’s state of health will directly relate to the type of treatment they are given and their support system. It’s especially important for children to seek medical and professional help at the first signs of illness, for when children with mental illnesses are treated earlier, their development and progress levels are better.

Many parents worry about their child who suffers from a mental disorder having a normal life, but Robinson said parents should only worry if their child isn’t receiving help.

“It’s like anything else,” he said. “If a kid doesn't get some assistance, then that’s going to go into how they form relationships, the kinds of jobs they’re going to seek, etc. It’s a self limiting kind of condition.”

It’s important to remember that anyone can suffer from a mental illness, although if a family member has a mental illness, it makes a child more susceptible to having one as well.

But help and support is out there, as there are places all over the country and in your community that are dedicated to help parents, children and family members deal with mental illness.

KERRY KIRK is a freelance writer from Indianapolis.

She enjoys educating people through her writing.

She can be contacted at freelancekerry@gmail.com

COMMON SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF MENTAL ILLNESS IN CHILDREN: Bipolar Disorder, manic symptoms:

* * * * * *

Severe changes in mood compared to others of the same age and background - either unusually happy or silly, or very irritable, angry, agitated or aggressive Unrealistic highs in self-esteem; a teenager who feels all powerful, like a superhero with special powers Great increase in energy and the ability to go with little or no sleep for days without feeling tired Increase in talking; the adolescent talks too much, too fast, changes topics too quickly, and cannot be interrupted Distractibility; the teen's attention moves constantly from one thing to the next Repeated high risk-taking behavior; such as, abusing alcohol and drugs, reckless driving, or sexual promiscuity

Bipolar Disorder, depressive symptoms:

* * * * * * * * * * *

Persistent boredom; low energy Social isolation, poor communication Low self esteem and guilt Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure Increased irritability, anger, or hostility Difficulty with relationships

Frequent complaints of physical illnesses such as headaches and stomachaches Frequent absences from school or poor performance in school Poor concentration A major change in eating and/or sleeping patterns Talk of or efforts to run away from home

* * * Signs of Bipolar Disorder: Irritability, depressed mood

Persistent sadness, frequent crying Thoughts of death or suicide

* * * *

Loss of enjoyment in favorite activities Frequent complaints of physical illnesses, such as headaches or stomachaches Low energy levels, fatigue, poor concentration, complaints of boredom

Major change in eating or sleeping patterns, such as oversleeping or overeating

Signs of Depression:

* *

Frequent sadness, tearfulness, crying, hopelessness

Decreased interest in activities, or inability to enjoy previously favorite activities

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 19

H E A LT H & W E LLN E SS

*

women's health

Women's Mental Health

Understanding the facts behind postpartum depression Recently, there has also been documentation of postpartum depression affecting fathers, with research stating the depression is brought on by the same symptoms as in women.

There are many forms of postpartum disorders (see below), some only last a few days, and in severe cases, some can last up to a year.

*Name has been changed due to subject sensitivity CINCINNATI RESIDENT AND mother of f ive, *Sarah H., once struggled to get herself out of bed every morning. The idea of starting her day created anxiety and fear. She could not eat, was always tired, and would snap at the smallest things.

These feelings of fatigue, irritability and anxiety arrived after Sarah’s third child, a healthy boy. She knew that something was wrong, but wasn’t sure why and was too embarrassed to admit there was a problem. But what Sarah was unaware of, was that she was showing symptoms of postpartum depression.

After baby number three her family also noticed something was wrong with Sarah, and since she was too embarrassed to admit it her family set up an intervention for her. It was here she discovered she had been suffering from postpartum depression.

Even after her family’s interference, and after choosing not to listen to advice from doctors to stop having children, Sarah gave birth to babies number four and five, two more healthy boys.

Her postpartum symptoms continued, and soon worsened. The constant pain and depression eventually became too much for her husband to handle. They just couldn’t seem to make it work anymore. Unfortunately, Sarah’s postpartum got the best of her, and today, her and her husband are going through a divorce.

Although this is an extreme instance of postpartum depression, according to Mental Health America, more than 80 percent of women suffer from some form of postpartum blues. Specifically, postpartum depression occurs in as many as 20 percent, or 950,000 new moms.

“There are several figures running around,” said Dr. Robert T. Ammerman, scientific director of Every Child Succeeds and professor of pediatrics at UC College of Medicine.

“The 20 percent is the one I’ve seen more recently, but one thing to note is that mothers who are born into high risk situations like poverty, low levels of social support, and violent households, usually have rates twice as high.”

20 CINCINNATI PARENT * MAY 2011

“Postpartum depression has an onset of at least 2 weeks of depressive symptoms, between the birth of the baby and 6 weeks postpartum,” Ammerman said. “Those symptoms have to be persistent over that 2 week period.”

Postpartum depression is the most common form of severe depression for women suffering from a post-birth depression. Ammerman said the American Psychiatry Association is considering expanding the window of onset for postpartum depression. Research has shown that there is no difference from women suffering from it whether it’s 3 weeks after birth or 5 months into a pregnancy.

“One thing that women with postpartum depression talk about a lot is that their disorder goes unrecognized or somehow diminished and is seen as a natural part of the childbirth experience, which it is not,” Ammerman said. “Hopefully [expanding the window of onset] will lead to greater recognition and awareness among treatment providers.”

According to Mental Health of America, there are a few main factors that contribute to postpartum depression. They list these as hormonal changes, life stresses and situational risks.

“The risk factors for developing postpartum depression are partly familial,” Ammerman said. “First degree relatives, siblings, mothers; if they’ve had it the risk is greater.

Low levels of support are life stressors, if you’ve experienced any kind of trauma, physical or sexual abuse, you have a greater risk of developing postpartum depression.”

There are treatments available in the form of medication and therapy. One of the most effective treatments for mothers suffering from postpartum is to talk about it with other mothers and discuss their feelings and fears.

Because childbirth is thought of as such a natural process in a mother’s life, the feelings of depression some women feel are often written off as natural.

“I think in our culture we still believe there is something normal, natural, and easy about taking care of an infant,” said Ammerman. “When in fact, we know how important it is to have help, support, and to have a whole social support system around taking care of the infant. As long as people

think depression is a natural part of having a child then we’re not going to identify it and are not going to treat it.”

Because of this cultural stigma, some women feel hopeless, or like Sarah, feel embarrassed to get help.

“Women who go through postpartum depression tend to blame themselves and see it as a sign of weakness, and as a result feel worse and don't seek treatment,” Ammerman said. “The causes are very complicated and no one wishes it on themselves. It’s not a sign of weakness and not a sign of a weak character. Seek treatment early and stick with whatever treatment they [the doctors] start, some [treatments] take time to have their best affect.”

Today, Sarah has received help and has begun the process of healing with the help of a support group and medication.

Although postpartum caused an upset in her family life, she is looking forward to getting back to her happier days.

KERRY KIRK is a freelance writer from Indianapolis. She enjoys educating people through her writing. She can be contacted at freelancekerry@gmail.com

Common Postpartum Disorders Pregnancy (also called antepartum) or Postpartum Depression: A woman with PPD might experience feelings of anger, sadness, irritability, guilt, lack of interest in the baby, changes in eating and sleeping habits, trouble concentrating, thoughts of hopelessness and sometimes even thoughts of harming the baby or herself.

Pregnancy (also called antepartum) or Postpartum Anxiety: A woman with PPA may experience extreme worries and fears, often over the health and safety of the baby. Some women have panic attacks and might feel shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, a feeling of losing control, and numbness and tingling.

Pregnancy or Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Women with PPOCD can have repetitive, upsetting and unwanted thoughts or mental images (obsessions), and sometimes they need to do certain things over and over (compulsions) to reduce the anxiety caused by those thoughts. These moms find these thoughts very scary and unusual and are very unlikely to ever act on them.

Postpartum Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: PPTSD is often caused by a traumatic or frightening childbirth, and symptoms may include flashbacks of the trauma with feelings of anxiety and the need to avoid things related to that event.

Postpartum Psychosis: PPP sufferers sometimes see and hear voices or images that others can’t, called hallucinations. They may believe things that aren’t true and distrust those around them. They may also have periods of confusion and memory loss, and seem manic. This severe condition is dangerous so it is important to seek help immediately.

Information provided by Mental Health of America

H E A LT H & W E LLN E SS

*

women's health

Choosing a Pediatrician *

Overcoming the challenges

aware that kids are not small adults – they have different symptoms and need different prescriptions and treatments.

*

able to guide you in anticipating your child’s needs, from the moment you bring your newborn home through college.

*

continually learning about your child and your family, compiling records that can be tapped when diagnosing and treating everything from bumps and bruises to major illnesses.

FOR NEW PARENTS, every decision made for the new baby seems daunting. Once the name has been determined and a nursery theme decided, the task of choosing a pediatrician begins to loom large.

Why should you choose a pediatrician rather than another kind of doctor?

PEDIATRICIANS ARE:

*

trained and experienced in the physical, emotional and social development of children.

These reasons also form the basis of advice not to use the “quick care clinics” now found in retail stores. While it may seem easier and cheaper to use these quick clinics for minor childhood ailments, don’t be fooled. Many children end up in the pediatrician's off ice after visiting a quick clinic, costing more in the long run. In a 2009 American Academy of Pediatrics survey, more than half the physicians seeing families within 24 hours of a quick clinic visit disagreed with the prescribed course of treatment.

These clinics won’t have access to your child’s records, your family’s

history and the extensive experience with children that your pediatrician will.

Still, choosing a pediatrician can be a challenge. After all, everyone you ask will say their doctor is the greatest. I always offer the following advice to parents looking for a new doctor.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK. You must trust this person to care for the most important thing in your life, so you need to feel confident about their care and advice. Ask friends and family for recommendations, but check on board eligibility or certification, state licensure, specialty interests and insurance coverage.

MEET THE DOCTOR BEFOREHAND. Before the baby comes, schedule an appointment. Most doctors will meet with new parents to answer questions about their practice, style and office policies. Be sure to clarify details of payment, though, before your appointment – some charge a nominal fee for a short visit, others waive any charges.

CLARIFY IMPORTANT ISSUES. During the visit, get feedback on key topics like

vaccine schedules, breast- versus bottlefeeding and cultural considerations. Talk about scheduling sick visits, after-hours calls, checking your newborn in the hospital and coverage when the doctor is off.

CONSIDER YOUR LIFESTYLE NEEDS. Is it important your doctor be close to home, work or daycare – or have offices close to all three? Do you need evening and weekend hours? If a doctor goes to multiple offices, where is your child’s medical record kept?

Once you’ve made your choice, make sure you are clear about when to make your first official visit. Usually, that’s at about a week, unless there are concerns such as feeding, weight loss or jaundice.

Choosing just the right pediatrician for your family can be an emotional decision, but the investment of time beforehand will pay dividends as that person shares the next 18 years with you and your growing family.

TERI DERICKSON MD is a Group Health Associates pediatrician. She sees children at the Springdale office.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 21

Tomorrow’s leaders will be made and educated by experiences like camp.

Through the camp experience, your child has become a member of a wonderful community — a community where character is built and civility toward each other is nurtured. In a world where interactions with other people have become increasingly impersonal, the ability to relate to another human being — to understand that the world is bigger and more complex than a Facebook prof ile page — is paramount.

mp Parent a C a g n ei B of oy T he J

SUMMER C *A *M *P *S!

sociat ion American Camp As he t om fr r te A let

Tomorrow’s leaders will not be those who can type or text with lightning speed, they will be those who can have a face-to-face conversation and articulate their thoughts, ideas, and values. Tomorrow’s leaders will be able to relate globally and f ind common ground with people who are vastly different from themselves — people from different backgrounds and cultures.

Tomorrow’s leaders will be made and educated by experiences like camp.

Dear Parents, Welcome! Welcome to the joy of being a camp parent.

The greatest gifts that parents can give their children are independence and resiliency, and by choosing to send your child to camp, you have given both.

Camp is one of the oldest and f inest communitybased experiential education and development models in America. With concerns about summer learning loss, it’s important for families to know that camp truly is a classroom without walls — providing fun designed around intentional programming.

By choosing to send your child to camp, you are placing them in an intentional environment designed specif ically to help develop the life skills needed to be a successful and competent adult — skills like self-conf idence, leadership, and empathy. Your child will have the opportunity to develop new interests and authentic relationships with mentors and peers — experiences that truly last a lifetime.

Research tells us that involvement in intentional programs during summer months can help stem the natural summer learning loss that occurs when children are out of school. For 150 years, camp has been the natural extension of traditional education — an intentional, expanded learning environment that provides enrichment and a hands-on experiential education like no other.

22 CINCINNATI PARENT * MAY 2011

Camp is the continuation and expansion of a traditional education. It focuses on the whole child — providing physical, social, and developmental growth, all of which are precursors to academic achievement. Camp is an equal opportunity life-changer and provides handson experiences that allow all children, even those who struggle in traditional educational settings, to feel successful and have a sense of accomplishment.

As the parent of a camper, you will notice amazing changes in your child. You will see growth and maturity and confidence when your camper returns home. As a camp parent, I watched my son after he returned from summer camp with wonder. It was obvious that remarkable growth was underway.

He was engaged, giving, and confident.

It was then that I “got it” from the parent perspective.

Simply viewing camp as a fun experience was somehow to miss the point — it’s more than that. Camp is a place where children have their mental, personal, emotional, and physical needs nurtured. Where they learn to get along with others, to take safe risks, to deal with conflict in a constructive way that encourages them to be creative, to explore and discover, to learn by actively doing, to try — and sometimes to fail and try again. In the camp community, I find what I intuitively know as a parent — to be a positive, productive adult, one needs the opportunity to truly experience childhood. That is how genuine growth happens.

Congratulations on the decision to join the ranks of the camp parent. You have joined a contemporary tradition that is 150 years young — one that has strengthened the fabric of America and will continue to do so in the future.

Your fellow parent, Peg Smith,

CEO, American Camp Association

SU M M ER C *A *M *P *S!

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 23

C *A *M *P G *U *I *D *E Day Camps grace and coordination and should always be an enjoyable experience!

ANDERSON DANCE ACADEMY CAMPS

8263 Beechmont Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45255 Contact: Jennifer Rothwell Phone: 513-474-7837 Fax: 513-985-3561 Email: info@ andersondanceacademy.com

BALLET THEATRE MIDWEST – CHILDREN’S DANCE WORKSHOPS & SUMMER INTENSIVE

3833 Eastern Avenue, Spencer Township Hall, Cincinnati, OH 45226 Contact: Nancy Fountain, Director Phone: (513)520-2334 Email: ballettheatremidwest@ fuse.net

www.andersondanceacademy.com

SUMMER C *A *M *P *S!

Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Arts Financial Aid Offered: No Dates: June 21-23, July 2628, August 2-3. Additional dates may be added.

Ages/Grades: Camps available for ages 3-18 Cost: Camps start at $65.00 Activities Included: All Camps include dance instruction, activity/craft, snack and education.

Anderson Dance Academy believes in providing quality dance education in a positive environment. The success of each student is ensured within a fun, focused, and non-competitive environment. We strive to build self esteem and self confidence in our students . Dance training builds confidence,

www.ballettheatremidwest.com

Gender of Campers: Day: Co-ed Basic Category: Arts Hours: Children's Workshops - 9:30-12:30, Monday - Friday; Summer Intensive - 9:304:30, Monday - Friday Dates: Children's Workshops - June13-July 1; Summer Intensive - July 5-29 Ages/Grades: Children's Workshop - Ages 4-8 Summer Intensive - Ages 9-25 Cost: Please see website for specific program rates.

Children's Workshops - Dance, music and art creatively built around a weekly theme with Friday performances.

24 CINCINNATI PARENT * MAY 2011

Summer Intensive - outstanding technical and artisitic training with individual attention.

Bi-weekly performances.

CAMP INVENTION Metropolitan Cincinnati Area Contact: Michele Millikan Phone: 800-968-4332 Email: campinvention@att.net www.campinvention.org Gender of Campers: Coed Hours: 9am to 3:30pm Dates: See web site for details.

Ages/Grades: Entering Grades 1-6 Cost: $185 to $215 Activities Included: Five exciting hands-on classes daily: take apart appliances, make new inventions, experiment with chemistry and polymers, decipher secret codes, and discover nature’s inventors.

Unleash the creative genius in your child! Camp Invention is a weeklong adventure in creativity. Led by local teachers the program nurtures children’s innate sense of curiosity. Children will learn how to think like inventors, problemsolve, collaborate and create— all while having tons of FUN!

CHILDTIME LEARNING CENTERS

Multiple Locations Phone: 866-961-3945 www.childtime.com Empowered to have fun this summer.

Childtime’s summer program is everything you want for your child under the sun – smiles, learning and quality care! Let our program engage your child through things like field trips, extraordinary guests and unique activities with special sessions in arts and crafts, sports, music and more! Childtime is the perfect place for summer for children between six weeks and 12 years of age. With highly-trained teachers, a safe, nurturing environment and flexible hours – it’s a place parents will love too! For more information about Childtime’s summer program, call us at 1-866-961-3945 or visit www.childtime.com today!

CINCINNATI CHILDREN'S CHOIR FESTIVAL Cincinnati Children's Choir Preparatory Department College-Conse, Cincinnati, OH 45221 Phone: 513-556-0338 Email: Choir@ cincinnatichoir.org www.cincinnatichoir.org

Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Arts Financial Aid Offered: Yes Hours: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Monday - Friday and Saturday,12 - 4 p.m.

Dates: July 25 - 30, 2011 Ages/Grades: Ages 9 (third grade) - 15 (tenth grade) Cost: $200.00 Requirements of Campers: All students must be teacherrecommended or auditioned and have unchanged voices.

Activities Included: The festival consists of sessions in vocal artistry, sight singing, musicianship through movement, music theory, choral artistry and music history/world music.

Young singers interested in enjoying and developing their musicianship skills will gather for an exciting week as they attend inspiring, interactive sessions on the campus of the University of Cincinnati. The week will culminate with a closing concert shared by the Festival Choir and members of the Cincinnati Children's Choir.

CINCINNATI COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL 6905 Given Road,

Cincinnati, OH 45243 Phone: (513)979-0365 Gender of Campers Co-ed, Multiple Day Options Available Dates: June 13 - August 5 Ages/Grades: 18 months – Adult

Academic, arts, athletic, and adult programs are offered weekly. Day camps are offered weekly and monthly for students 18 months through entering grade 6 with either a traditional or Montessori focus. Prices vary per program and camp session selected.

CHCA SUMMERFLIGHT DAY CAMPS 11312 Snider Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249 Contact: Beth Andrews, Director of Summer Programs Phone: 513-247-0900 Email: summerflight@ chca-oh.org www.chca-oh.org/ summerflight Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Traditional Special Needs Camps Offered: Yes (Specialty camps) Financial Aid Offered: No Hours: Half-Day, Full-Day and Extended Hours options from 7am - 5:30pm

Dates: Weekly sessions from June 6 - August 12 Ages/Grades: Age 3 Rising 4th Graders Cost: $115/week for HalfDay Camp; $23/week for Full-Day Camp; $30 - $40/ week for extended hours Activities Included: Weekly themed camps feature a range of age-appropriate activities including games, art, music, play, devotions and team-building.

Presented by Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy! In the spirit of summer adventure, CHCA SummerFlight Day Camps has planned an unforgettable summer experience for your child. Christ-centered fun, learning, adventure and character-building every day. Located at CHCA's Edyth B. Lindner Elementary School in Symmes Township.

COMMUNITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Children will spend one hour in the Montessori classroom, have a group snack, then go outside for art activities, water fun, and community visitors.

FLYING HEARTS FARM 6060 State Route 132, Goshen, OH 45122 Contact: Shawn Ratliff Phone: (513)295-2519 Email: flyingheartsfarm@ yahoo.com www.flyingheartsfarm.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Animals Special Needs Camps Offered: No Financial Aid Offered: No Dates: Jr. Camp: June 27-30, July 11-14, July 25-28; Sr. Camp: July 2122; Pony Pals: July 16 Ages/Grades: Jr. Camp: Ages 8-12; Sr. Camp: Ages 13-17; Pony Pals: Ages 5-7 with parent

Cost: Jr. Camp: $250; Sr. Camp: $125; Pony Pals: $45 Activities Included: Horseback riding daily with one on one instruction, feeding and caring for the horses, horsey crafts and games.

Our camps provide children the opportunity to experience horses in a safe and fun environment. Participants will learn basic horse care and riding skills as they work and play with the horses of Flying Hearts Farm. All horses, all day!

THE GOOD SHEPHERD CATHOLIC MONTESSORI SUMMER CAMPS 4460 Berwick Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45227 Phone: 513-271-4171 Fax: 513-271-4680 Email: ntoon@ gscmontessori.org www.gscmontessori.org Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Traditional, Hands-On Enrichment Hours: 9:00am-12:00n and 1:00pm-4:00pm Dates: June 13-17, June 23-27 Ages/Grades: Age 4-14 Cost: $125.00 per week if paid by May 8. $135.00 per week if paid May 9 or after.

Some camps have additional lab fees. Optional supervised lunch/recess hour for all-day

campers at $25 per week.

Requirements of Campers: Dress for hands-on, creative projects and bring a water bottle.

Activities Included: Karate, Artrageous, Archaeology, clay, mosaics, cooking, Introduction to Guitar, Circus, Chess, origami, scrapbooking, magic, nature exploration, and music & movement.

Something for everyone! Go to www. gscmontessori.org and click the summer camp icon for a complete listing of camps. Hands-on enrichment and fun learning experiences for all aged 4-14. Most camps taught by certified teachers or professionals with specialized and advanced degrees.

GORMAN HERITAGE FARM 10052 Reading Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241 Contact: Mike Roman, Camp Director Phone: (513)563-6663 Fax: (513)563-6659 Email: camp@gormanfarm.org www.GormanFarm.org Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Animals Special Needs Camps Offered: Yes, (During everyday camps) Financial Aid Offered: Financial aid is available Hours: 9:30am - 2:30pm, some other options available

Dates: June 6 - August 13, see website for detailed schedule.

Ages/Grades: Ages 4 - 15.

Cost: $55-$210/week for main camps, themed camps offered at additional cost.

Activities Included: Be a farm kid! Interact with farm animals, garden, play games, hike, explore the forest, make crafts, music.

Themed camps: wilderness, art, cooking & science.

GHF’s talented & dedicated camp staff are recruited nationally. Camp counselors are selected based on their experience with children, passion & creativity for teaching, & knowledge of agriculture & the environment.You will never want to leave!

INNER CITY TENNIS PROJECT/TENNIS & FITNESS CAMP Triangle Tennis Courts, Reading Road & W.H. Taft Road, Cincinnati, OH Contact: Mrs. Rachel Fair Phone: (513) 793-2437 Email: raf620@aol.com innercitytennisproject.org Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Sports Special Needs Camps Offered: No Financial Aid Offered: No Dates: June 13 - August 13. NO PROGRAM JULY 1ST & 4TH. Ages/Grades: 6 - 15 years old

Cost: $60/week for Full Day, 7:30AM-5:30PM; $30/ week for Half Day, 7:30Noon OR 1:00-5:30PM Requirements of Campers: Children must have had a physical exam in 2011.

Children must pack a lunch and a snack. Children must come dressed for physical activity and be able to fully participate in the program.

Activities Included: Fitness Activities, Tennis Instruction & Competition, Cincinnati DARE Program, Swimming, Nutrition & Health Education, Reading & Math Activities.

This is an outdoor camp that provides healthy physical activities for children as well as expose them to social and academic enrichment. During inclement weather, indoor facilities will be used.

KIDS AIKIDO CAMP 4727 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati, Oh 45227 Contact: Shawn Dansby Phone: 513-561-7202 Email: kidscamp@ aikidocincy.com www.aikidocincy.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Sports Hours: 9-2:30 Dates: June 13-17 and June 20-24 Ages/Grades: 6-15 years

SU M M ER C *A *M *P *S!

9035 Cincinnati-Dayton Road, West Chester, OH 45069 Contact: Jamie Minniear, Director Phone: 513-777-0808 Email: communitymontessori1@ gmail.com www.CMontessori.com Gender of Campers: Coed Hours: 9:00am-11:00am Dates: The weeks of: June

13, June 20, July 11, July 18 Ages/Grades: Ages 3-6 including children who completed Kindergarten this year Cost: $75/week; **receive *10 off if you register by 3/1/2011 Requirements of Campers: None Activities Included: Themed weeks, art projects, water fun, and outside activities.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 25

Cost: 1 Session $145.00; 2 Sessions $250.00 Requirements of Campers: Get ready for physical conditioning.

Activities Included: Intro to Aikido, physical conditioning, Japanese culture work, Japanese art work, and games.

Aikido of Cincinnati is a non-profit club founded in 1972. Aikido is a Japanese form of self-defense and martial art that uses locks, holds, throws, and the opponent's own movements. There will be origami, sushi, water coloring, sword fighting, Aikido games, an Aikido T-shirt and healthy snacks.

SUMMER C *A *M *P *S!

KIDS SUMMER CAMP AT HERITAGE VILLAGE MUSEUM 11450 Lebanon Road / Route 42, Sharonville, OH 45241 Contact: Lisa Egan, Education Director Phone: 513-563-9484 Fax: 513-563-0914 Email: Legan@ heritagevillagecincinnati.org www. heritagevillagecincinnati.org Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Academic/Pre-college Special Needs Camps Offered: No Financial Aid Offered: No Hours: :00am - 3:30 pm M-F Early Drop-off 8:00 and late Pick-up 5:00pm option available Dates: June 20-24, 2011 July 11-15, 2011 July 25-29, 2011 Ages/Grades: Ages 6-13 (or having finished Kindergarten) Cost: Members $145; Non-Members $170 Activities Included: Making wooden toys, Basket weaving, Cooking in a hearth kitchen, playing old-fashioned games, learning about natural dyes, sewing, weaving on a loom During a week at the Heritage Village Kids Summer Camp, campers will learn about life during the 1800s. History will come alive during those days of camp. Kids will get

the chance to learn skills (and even chores!) of Ohio’s pioneer history.

KINDERCARE SUMMER CAMP Multiple Locations Phone: 888-518-2213 www.KinderCare.com/ SummerCamp KinderCare® Summer Camp was designed to provide pre-school through school-age kids with what they want: TONS of summer fun!

From the old west to space-age machines, from the antics of animals to learning new sports, each of our 12 camp offerings is a combination of learning and fun that adds up to one unforgettable summer! Discover more by visiting www.KinderCare. com/SummerCamp or calling 888518-2213.

LINDNER CENTER OF HOPE 4075 Old Western Row Road, Cincinnati, OH 45040 Phone: 513-536-4673 www.lindnercenterofhope. org/smart Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Special Needs Specific Categories: For children with attention and anxiety issues.

Financial Aid Offered: No Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Monday through Friday Dates: (Three 3-week sessions) Session 1: June 13 - July 1; Session 2: July 11 - July 29; Session 3: August 1 - August 19 Ages/Grades: Age 11 to 14 Cost: $2,000 per session (all inclusive) Activities Included: Behavior and study skills screening, Socialization groups, Teambased activities, Gross motor activities, Group art projects, Lunch with peers, Mindfulness/ relaxation techniques SummerSMART is a unique summer program that welcomes children (age 11 -14) who struggle with impulsivity, socialization difficulties, attention and concentration issues and anxiety disorders. The program

26 CINCINNATI PARENT * May 2011

caters to their special needs by encouraging inclusion and building confidence and socialization skills.

THE LITTLE GYM ANYTIME SUMMERTIME CAMPS 8201 Arbor Square Drive, Mason, OH 45040 Contact: Kevin Helmick or Cassie Franklin Phone: 513-204-1400 Email: tlgmasonoh@ thelittlegym.com www.thelittlegym.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Sports Special Needs Camps Offered: No Financial Aid Offered: No Hours: Mon-Thurs 1:00p-4:00p, Fri 9:00a-noon Dates: June 6 August 19, 2011 Ages/Grades: 3 - 10 years Cost: Member price for one full week $90, Non member price for one full week $105, Member price for one day $25, Non member price for one day $28 Requirements of Campers: Children must be bathroom independent.

Activities Included: Structured games and activities, as well as supervised free play, snack and craft.

Your children will love the weekly themes and guest visitors and you will love the physcial activity that they will be enjoying under the supervision of our incredible staff.

From Cheerleading week to Beach Party week to Outer Space week, each of the 11 themes are sure to keep your young ones entertained!

MCNICHOLAS HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER CAMPS 6536 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, Oh 45230 Contact: Cathy Sherrick, Director of Admissions Phone: 513-231-3500 ext. 5817 Fax: 513-231-1351 Email: csherrick@mcnhs.orgg www.mcnhs.org Gender of Campers: Coed

Basic Category: Traditional Financial Aid Offered: No Hours: Hours vary per camp Dates: Dates for each camp available on our website.

Ages/Grades: Grades 1-9 Cost: $45-$106; cost varies depending on each camp Requirements of Campers: Registration form, parental consent and release form, and full payment are required for each student to participate.

Activities Included: With 25 different academic and athletic summer camp offerings, let McNicholas be your summer camp destination.

Our academic and athletic summer camps take place on our Mt. Washington campus for students of all ages.

Camps are available in basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, football, soccer, theatre, math, and science.Visit www.mcnhs.org for more information and to register.You'll love spending part of your summer with us!

SHARON HILL KIDZ KLUB Primary South Elementary, 825 Lakeridge Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45231 Contact: JoAnn Knapp, Executive Director Phone: 513-772-2666 or 513-851-3338 Fax: 513-772-2667 o Email: jknapp@ sharonhilldaycare.org

www.sharonhilldaycare.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Traditional Special Needs Camps Offered: No Financial Aid Offered: Yes Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30 a.m.- 6:30 p.m.

Dates: June 6,2011August 19,2011 Ages/Grades: 6 years to 12 years of age. Must have completed Kindergarten.

Cost: $150.00 Activities Included: Weekly field trips, swimming, art & crafts, outdoor play, summer bridging Our theme this summer of 2011 is "Go for the Goal"!

The goal of Kidz Klub is to educate our campers while having tons of fun on fitness, nutrition and overall health.

SPRINGER SCHOOL AND CENTER 2121 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208 Phone: 871-6080 ext. 402 www.springer-ld.org Gender of Campers: Coed Dates: June 20 - July 15, 2011 Ages/Grades: Ages: 1st – 8th grade “Adventures in Summer Learning” is designed for students of at least average potential who are not mak-

ing expected progress. The morning program helps children become confident in the basic skills through small group instruction. The afternoon program consists of specialized courses in math, writing, social skills, and creative expression.

WAKE NATION 201 Joe Nuxhall Way, Fairfield, OH 45014 Contact: Peter Kennedy, CEO Phone: 513-887-9253 Fax: 513-863-0516 Email: info@wakenation.com www.wakenation.com Gender of Campers: Coed Type of Camp: Day Basic Category: Sports Financial Aid Offered: No Hours: 10AM - 3PM Dates: Session 1: June 7-9; Session 2: June 14-16 Session 3: June 21-23; Session 4: June 28-30 Session 5: July 5-7; Session 6: July 12-14 Session 7: July 19-21; Session 8: July 26-28 Session 9: August 2-4; Session 10: August 9-11 Ages/Grades: Ages 8 and up.

Cost: $325 for 3 day session Requirements of Campers: Bathing suit and sunscreen.

Activities Included: Learn to wakeboard, water-ski, kneeboard and wakeskate.

Great for beginners and experienced riders.

Kids will learn how to wakeboard and water-ski in a fun, supportive environment from our experienced and professional staff. Our staff will give each camper the attention and encouragement he or she needs to ensure that they have a great experience at Camp Wake Nation.

YMCA OF GREATER CINCINNATI SUMMER DAY CAMPS 2011

3771 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45229 Contact: Rodney Napier, Assistant Principal Phone: 513-861-5551 Fax: 513-861-1563 Email: rnapier@ztca.org www.ztca.org Gender of Campers: Coed Hours: 7am - 6pm Dates: May 31, 2011 - August 5, 2011 Ages/Grades: 3 - 12 years Cost: $88 - $98 per week Requirements of Campers: Registration is required.

Activities Included: Activities include themed weeks, academics, arts and crafts, field trips, water fun, and other outside activities.

Zion Temple Summer Activity Program is fun for all ages. To learn more about our school and our programs go to www.ztca.org.

Residential Camps FALCON CAMP 4251 Delta Rd SW, Carrollton, OH 44615 Contact: Dave Devey Phone: 800/837-CAMP Fax: 216/991-4908

Email: info@FalconCamp.com www.falconcamp.com Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Traditional Dates: 2, 4 ,6 or 8 weeks available from June 19 - August 13 Ages/Grades: Ages 6 - 16 Cost: $2095 - $6500 Requirements of Campers: Willing to have fun and try new things!

Activities Included: Sailing, horseback riding, riflery, archery, tennis, crafts, drama, woodslore, canoeing, swimming, basketball, softball, sports, overnight camping, dances, creative arts, video, much more!

Ohio’s premier summer camp since 1959. Boys and girls enjoy wide variety of activities with outstanding staff. “Fun for Now, Skills for Life” is motto and environment created at Falcon. Located on beautiful 8 mile Leesville Lake in hundreds of acres of woods, great food, great fun, lifetime of memories.

FALCON HORSE LOVER CAMP 4251 Delta Rd. SW, Carrolton, OH 44615 Contact: Emily Devey, Director Phone: 800/837-CAMP Fax: 216/991-4908 Email: HorseCamp@

FalconCamp.com www.falconcamp.com Gender of Campers: All-Girl Basic Category: Animals Dates: One week sessions June 19 – August 13 Ages/Grades: Girls ages 11 - 15 Cost: $1025/wk Requirements of Campers: For horse lovers only. Some experience recommended.

Activities Included: Daily mounted lessons, trail rides, fun rides, games, guest instructors, field trips, your “own horse”, parent demo, take home video, ground lessons, approx. 4 hours actual riding each day.

For Horse Lover’s only! Eat, sleep and breathe horses in this special program designed to improve riding skills, teach horsemanship, horse health and care.Very limited enrollment ensures individual instruction and attention. Excellent instructors and horses. ACA accredited since 1959. References available. If you love horses, you’ll love this camp!

THE HOWE SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP PO Box 240, Howe, IN 46746 Contact: Charles Grady, Director Phone: 260-562-2131

Fax: 260-562-3678 Email: cgrady@ thehoweschool.org Gender of Campers: Both All Boy and All Girl Basic Category: Academic/ Pre-college Hours: Any time Dates: Boys (June 19 - July 29); Girls (July 31 - Aug 5) Ages/Grades: 9 through 15 Cost: Boys (3-wks $2100, 6-wks $3500); Girls ($500) Requirements of Campers: Be ready to have fun Activities Included: Rifle, ropes course, repelling, archery, boating, canoeing, sports, hiking, nature study, games, physical fitness, camp newsletter, and crafts The Howe Summer Camp has three and six-week boy’s residential program and a one-week girl’s program. The boys’ camp offers leadership, education and discipline, including rifle, archery, swimming, canoeing, physical training, ropes course, repelling, crafts, horsemanship, and games. Girls’ camp offers leadership, skills necessary for young women to succeed in today’s careers, including team building, culinary arts, scrapbooking, crafts, ropes and obstacle course and repelling.

Burlington, KY 41005 Contact: Eli Cochran, Executive Director Phone: 859-586-6181 Fax: 859-586-6214 Email: ce@myYcamp.org www.myYcamp.org Gender of Campers: Coed Basic Category: Traditional Financial Aid Offered: Yes Dates: June 12-Aug 20 (one week sessions) Ages/Grades: Ages 6-15 Cost: $500-675 Activities Included: Archery, BLOB, 100 foot waterslide, banana boat, aquacycles, kayaks, canoes, swimming, crafts, zipline, giant swing, burma bridge, airwalk, climbing wall, rock band, big art, moviemaking, and much more!

Steeped in tradition and founded on the YMCA qualities of honesty, caring, responsibility, and respect, campers enjoy top notch counselors and make friends while doing a wide variety of activities. Exciting teen adventure trips and specialty horseback riding, skateboarding, and mountain biking add-ons are also part of our popular program!

YMCA CAMP ERNST OF CINCINNATI

YOUR LISTING HERE Contact Katie at Katie@ CincinnatiParent.com

7615 Camp Ernst Rd,

SU M M ER C *A *M *P *S!

Cincinnati, OH Phone: 513.362.YMCA (9622) www.myY.org Gender of Campers: Coed All YMCA of Greater Cincinnati Camps have earned ACA Accreditation by the American Camping Association.Your child’s safety is our top priority! Registration going on now at all YMCA locations throughout the Greater Cincinnati area. Caring, honesty, respect and responsibility are cornerstones of all YMCA camps.

At all YMCA day camps, each week will have a different theme but they all provide opportunities to learn, make friends, and have fun! Pre and Post Camps, Preschool Camps, Sports and Specialty camps, Adventure Teen Camps, and CIT (Counselor in Training) Camps also available.

ZION TEMPLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 27

28 CINCINNATI PARENT * May 2011

CINCY ON A BUDGET

O N E -TA N K- G E TAWAY S for you and your family

We start with advice from a man who has traveled more than a million miles in and around Ohio. Neil Zurcher has written several books on Ohio road trips, and one of his favorite travel destinations near Cincinnati is The Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio.

“It’s an incredible place to see rare animals from all over the world who run free while humans are caged in safari buses,” Zurcher said. The Wilds is open weekends in May and daily June through August.

Another Zurcher favorite is the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio.

What’s your dream vacation this The museum is free. While you’re there, check out the collection of summer? A day at the beach, Presidential planes. You can walk through the Air Force One craft exploring the great outdoors, or that carried John F. Kennedy’s body home from Dallas.

touring museums? You can do all

Dayton’s Air Show is July 23-24 and is always a big hit for young one tank of gas. We talked with and old with the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, the United local parents and travel experts States Army Parachute Team, a huge sandbox, and hands-on science and found some of the best travel experiments. While you’re in destinations that are close to home. Dayton, head over to Fifth Third Field to catch some Minor League Baseball action with the Dayton Dragons.

of these things and more on just

Jacklyn Ghergurovich with AAA in Cincinnati suggests a trip to The Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky. There is a farm to explore, horseback riding and horse shows to see. She also recommends visiting Amish areas in Adams County to experience a different way of life, and for the nature lovers in your family, Hocking Hills State Park offers caves, water falls and cliffs.

For a little pampering, make your way over to French Lick, Ind. to visit the beautiful

French Lick Resort. About three hours away, this hotel offers special kids events every day in the summer, and the grownups will love the Pluto Mineral Spring’s healing waters.

If you’re looking for a wild time this summer, we’re also surrounded by great zoos. There’s our very own, Cincinnati Zoo, but a short drive away is the Louisville Zoo. It has a new Polar and Grizzly Bear Habitat this summer. Get incredibly close to the bears and get a 50 percent discount on admission if you’re a Cincinnati Zoo member.

You can also get 50 percent off at the Columbus Zoo and see cuddly koalas and rescued manatees.

After visiting the animals, cool off at the water park next door at Zoombezi Bay. The Indianapolis Zoo has new exhibits this summer as well, featuring warthogs, bats and orchids. Visitors can get closer to tigers than ever before at the zoo’s new Tiger Forest. It opens Memorial Day weekend and Cincinnati Zoo members can get a 10 percent discount there.

Another Indianapolis treasure is their Children’s Museum, the largest children’s museum in the world. There is truly something for everyone there. Younger children will love the Dora and Diego exhibit. Fashionistas will enjoy the hands-on Barbie exhibit where they can see Barbie’s most famous looks and do some designing of their own.

Tracy McDonald of Hebron took her daughters, Caroline and Kate, to the museum during spring break.

Treasures of the Earth, and let your budding archaeologist explore the tomb of an Egyptian pharaoh or a Caribbean shipwreck.

Young archaeologists will also find plenty to do at the Falls of the Ohio in Clarksville, Ind. The 390-million-year-old fossil beds are waiting to be explored. The Graf family of Florence is planning their second trip here this summer.

Juli Graf said her daughter, Paige, enjoys finding fossils and imagining what they once were.

“It’s rich in history, inexpensive and just a short car ride away,” she said.

Another destination even closer to home is Jane’s Saddlebag in Big Bone Lick, Ky. It’s hard to describe this place, but owners Pete and Nancy Blackmore say it’s like going to Grandpa’s farm.

There’s Nancy’s home cooking at the restaurant, there’s a petting zoo ($5 admission) and there are history lessons about Big Bone Lick. It’s open weekends in spring and fall and WednesdaySunday during the months June through August.

If it’s fun in the sun you want, area state parks are the way to go. Hueston Woods near Oxford, Ohio and East Fork State Park in Bethel, Ohio both feature a beach, hiking, fishing and picnic areas. (AAA has special deals for Ohio State Parks.) In Indiana, Brookville Lake is popular with two beaches, more than 400 campsites and 25 miles of trails.

“The kids love it,” she said. “But I enjoy it as well. The Barbie exhibit brought back so many memories.”

These are just a few ideas to get you started.

There are daytrip books abound, resources at AAA and plenty of places on the Internet as well. So pack up the cooler, get the camera charged and load the kids in the car and venture out on your one tank getaway!

Don’t miss the museum’s new exhibit opening this summer: The National Geographic

AMY HOLTZMAN is a writer, producer and mom of three living in Northern Kentucky and is a graduate of Xavier University, Class of '92.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 29

30 CINCINNATI PARENT * May 2011

CO MM E N TA RY & PA R E N T I N G

*

dear teacher

Your Questions of Teachers—Answered

my daughter started crying.

The teacher relented a bit by saying that having a tutor or attending summer school might allow her to go to first grade. There’s no way she can attend summer school so I guess we’ll have to go the tutoring route. What else should we do? - Shocked

Retention rarely benefits children.

Avoiding Kindergarten Retention At my daughter’s recent kindergarten conference, I got the surprise of a lifetime when the teacher said my child might be retained. At the fall conference, everything was fine, except for some behavior problems. Right now, the teacher says her reading is satisfactory, but she is weak in identifying the numbers to 30 and writing sentences. Plus, she doesn’t always follow directions or rules or pay attention. This class is very chaotic and noisy when I volunteer, but my daughter is definitely not among the worst-behaved students.

Unfortunately, my daughter was part of this conference and was told that if she didn’t straighten out, she would be in kindergarten for another year. This was so upsetting that

It’s certainly very unprofessional for a teacher to threaten a young child with being held back unless she shapes up. Go back to this teacher and have her spell out exactly the areas in which your daughter must improve. You need a specific list of benchmarks that your daughter must meet to be promoted. Then find a tutor who can start working with her now and continue through the summer.

You also need to find out exactly when the final decision on retention will be made and who will make it. Because your child’s reading skills are on target, we would suggest that you lobby long and hard for your child to be promoted.

Retention rarely benefits children.

Right now, you should be play-acting school situations with the goal of improving the child’s classroom behavior in the few weeks remaining in the school year.

This could be helpful if behavior issues are playing a role in the retention issue.

An Easy Way to Learn about Decimal Points Do you know of a way we can explain the placement of the decimal point in multiplication to our daughter so it is more than a mechanical operation? – Concept Lacking

The more interested children are in the topic of a book, the more likely they will enjoy reading about it.

32 CINCINNATI PARENT * MAY 2011

Find a set of multiplication problems involving decimals like 34.7

x 12.38 in your child’s math textbook.

Using a calculator, have her find the product ignoring the decimal points. In this problem, she would get 429586.

Ask your child to locate the correct position of the decimal point in the answer.

To do this, have her estimate the answer by rounding each factor to the nearest one and multiplying the new factors. For our example, 35 x 12 = 420. Suggest that the decimal be placed in 429586 to get as close as possible to 420 (product of 35 x 12). The decimal point is at 429.586.

After your child has worked through a number of similar problems, ask her to make up a rule for locating the decimal point in multiplication. It is placed so that the number of digits to the right of the point equals the number of places in the factors. For example, there are three decimal places in the problem 34.7 x 12.38, so she should place the decimal three places from the right of the product: 429.586. If your daughter still has difficulty understanding the rule for decimals in multiplication, have her work with smaller numbers.

This explanation is from our book “Helping Children with Mathematics”.

The book has activities to help children in grades 3-5 learn basic math concepts while enjoying working with their parents. It is available online at www.GoodYear.com.

Use the following inventory to discover more about your children’s interests:

* * * * * * * * * *

When nobody is around, I like to …

The sport I like to play best is …

The part of the world that interests me the most is …

What makes me laugh is …

My main hobby or leisure time activity is …

The subject which I like best in school is…

I would really like to learn more about …

The job I want to be doing as an adult is …

The television show or movie that I like best is …

The best book that I have ever read was …

Use this inventory at the library to find interesting easy-to-read books for your children. Then have your children look at these books until they find appealing ones. The more your children read, the more interested and better readers they will become.

PARENTS SHOULD send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher. com or ask them on the columnists’ Web site at www.dearteacher.com. ©Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2010

Turning Disinterested Readers into Interested Readers What can I do over the summer to get my children interested in books? All three of my children dislike reading. – Not Readers Usually, children who dislike reading are not good readers.

Begin by finding out more about your children’s interests. You are probably asking yourself right now what do my children’s interests have to do with their picking up books and reading.

Everything. The more interested children are in the topic of a book, the more likely they will enjoy reading about it.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 33

Childcare & Education Directory Child Care/Preschool CHAI TOTS EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER 7587 Central Parke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040 (513)234-0600 www.chaitots.com Grades: 6 weeks - 6 years Enrollment: 40 Academic excellence via unique blend of Montessori method and traditional Jewish education. Chai Tots teaches children the culture and traditions of Judaism, while developing their creativity skills and promoting independence.

Flexible schedule. Before and Aftercare.

THE COMPASS SCHOOL 9370 Waterstone Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45249 Contact: Laura Carr Phone: 513-683-8833 Email: CompassLC@yahoo.com www.TheCompassSchool.com Ages 6 weeks-6 years plus after school & summer camp up to age 12. Offering outstanding Reggio-Inspired full and part-time Infant, Toddler, Two’s, and Preschool programs, as well as Kindergarten, After School, and Summer Camp for school-age children. Degreed

34 CINCINNATI PARENT * May 2011

teachers, extensive parent communication, and welcoming family environment. Setting the standard in early care and education. Call today for your personal tour.

THE GARDNER SCHOOL OF BLUE ASH 9920 Carver Road, Cincinnati, OH 45242 513-985-9444 www.TheGardnerSchool.com Ages 6 weeks - Pre-K This award-winning, academically focused preschool has recently opened in the Blue Ash Community. You want the best for your child, and so do we. With our nationally-recognized curriculum taught by our degreed teaching faculty, we are committed to providing a nurturing environment for learning readiness where your child can prepare for academic achievement and lifelong success.

GODDARD SCHOOL 4430 Red Bank Expressway, Cincinnati, OH 45227 Phone: 513-271-6311 Grades: Ages 6 weeks to 8 years The Goddard School provides the foundation to encourage your child’s lifelong love of learning. Whether gently holding your infant, encouraging your toddler to share, or providing your preschooler with a variety of enriching

activities, caring teachers support your child’s healthy development from 6 weeks to 6 years, and up to 8 years for after-school enrichment.

To learn more about The Goddard School® in you neighborhood, call 1-800-GODDARD or visit online at www.goddardschool.com.

PLEASANT RIDGE PRESBYTERIAN NURSERY SCHOOL 5950 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45213 (513)631-0170 www.prpc.org Grades: 2 1/2 - 5 years, Parent/ Child classes birth to 32 months Enrollment: 65 Professionally qualified teachers provide active, expressive, child-centered learning experiences at this 3-star award-winning program.

Choose 2, 3, 4, or 5 day AM or PM sessions.

Excellent ratios, degreed teachers and spacious, sunny, classrooms await your preschooler. Parent and child classes also available for babies and toddlers.

SKIDADDLES 5939 Deerfield Blvd., Suite 104, Mason, OH 45040 Contact: Tiffany Sams, President Phone: 513-204-3482 Email: info@skidaddles.com www.skidaddles.com

Grades: 18 months - 12 years Enrollment: New registrations are always welcome. Register once and use both locations - Mason, OH and Florence, KY! Skidaddles offers convenient and reliable care that is available without reservation. Drop-in days, evenings, and weekends whenever you need childcare. Whether you need care for a few hours or all day, part-time, or full-time with flexibility, we can accomodate all your childcare needs! Feel confident knowing your children are having fun and learning while being cared for by well qualified staff in a safe and clean environment.

Montessori

CENTRAL MONTESSORI ACADEMY 1904 Springdale Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231 Laura Saylor 513-742-5800 laura@centralmontessoriacademy.com www.centralmontessoriacademy.com Infancy through Sixth Grade Enrollment: 110 At C.M.A., children (infants through sixthgraders) learn at their pace, building self-esteem while being taught as individuals. Our program is academically rigorous while stressing life

skills (i.e. critical-thinking & courteous behavior). The result: motivated & self-disciplined lifelong-learners who are students of life just as much as they are of academics.

THE CHILD’S PLACE 4936 Old Irwin Simpson Rd, Mason, OH 45040 (513)398-6928 www.montacademy.org Grades: 6 weeks through 4 years Enrollment: 150 Montessori Early Childhood Program! Exceptionally low ratios in a nurturing environment! Our 2-acre campus provides bike and cart paths. Separate play areas for toddlers and preschoolers. Spanish and Music classes offered! Full-time and Part-time available. AMS Affiliate

COUNTRY HILLS MONTESSORI 4400 Glen Este Withamsville, Cincinnati, OH 45236 Contact: Susan Schreiber, Owner Phone: 513-752-1066 Email: sschreiberchm@yahoo.com Grades: 3 - K Providing half day programs for 3 to K. Small, individualized classes with low student-teacher ratios, under the guidance of Montessori certified teachers, in an inter-generational enviornment. Multiple Locations in Eastgate, Oakley, Harrison and West Chester, Ohio and in Ft. Thomas and Erlanger, KY. Visit chmschools. com for all location addresses & phones.

MONTESSORI ACADEMY OF CINCINNATI 8293 Duke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040 (513)398-7773 www.montacademy.org Grades: 3 years – 8th grade Enrollment: 300

Now in our 23rd year offering Montessori curriculum with an individualized nurturing approach. Experienced, degreed teachers foster a love of learning, promote independence and develop the necessary skills for success. New 7.5-acre campus! State Chartered. AMS Affiliated. Extended Care available on-site.

THE NEW SCHOOL MONTESSORI 3 Burton Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229 (513)281-7999 www.thenewschool.cc Grades: 3 year-olds through 6th Grade Enrollment: 150 Founded on Montessori principles in 1970, our wooded playgrounds, home-cooked meals and family-like setting in North Avondale’s Mitchell Mansion provide a stimulating and nurturing environment for learning. We value diversity and create a caring and supportive community. Our graduates excel academically, but more importantly are empowered as citizens of our global community. (Accredited by AMS and ISACS).

Non-Public

ST. URSULA VILLA 3660 Vineyard Place, Cincinnati, OH 45226 (513)871-7218 www.stursulavilla.org Preschool – 8th grade Enrollment: 496 Academic excellence in the Ursuline tradition for boys and girls in preschool through 8th grade. Whole-child development, family atmosphere, dedicated faculty, Montessori or Traditional preschool options, small class size, individual attention, outstanding high school preparation.

SUMMIT COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL 2161 Grandin Road (513)871-4700 www.summitcds.org Grades: Age 2 - Grade 12 Enrollment: 1100 Founded in 1890, the area’s only independent, Catholic, co-ed, college-prep school servin students age 2 - Grade 12 is recognized as a leader in formalized Character Education, Credo. A diverse community of students benefit from a rich, classical and challenging curriculum within three contiguous divisions. Extensive athletic and visual arts programs campus-wide.

CINCINNATI COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

ZION TEMPLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

6905 Given Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45243 Phone: (513)979-0220 www.countryday.net Grades: Early Childhood (18 months); 12th grade Enrollment: 800 CCDS is an independent, co-educational school dedicated to educational excellence serving students 18 months through Grade 12. The School is nationally recognized for its innovative, integrated laptop computer program. Extended day and tuition assistance is available.

3771 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45229 Contact: Rodney Napier, Assistant Principal Phone: 513-861-5551 Fax: 513-861-1563 Email: rnapier@ztca.org www.ztca.org Grades: 3 year-olds through 6th Grade Enrollment: 105 Founded in 1983, Zion Temple Christian Academy is a private, nonprofit Christian School that offers highly competitive academic standards. We use the A Beka Cur-

riculum. Our goal is to develop the total person, based on Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go…”

Special Needs SPRINGER SCHOOL AND CENTER 2121 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208 Phone: (513)871-6080 www.springer-ld.org Grades: 1st - 8th grade Enrollment: 200 For 40 years, Springer School and Center has empowered students with learning disabilities to become strategic learners, helping them to achieve success. Springer offers a day school for students ages 6-13 and outreach programs and learning disability resources for students, parents and teachers in the Greater Cincinnati area. The Springer Experience. Success Changes Everything.

Virtual/Distance OHIO VIRTUAL ACADEMY Best performing eSchool in Ohio (866)339-9072 www.ohva.org Grades: Kindergarten – 10th grade Enrollment: 3,300 Ohio Virtual Academy helps your K-10 children obtain an excellent public school education, tuition free! Under the guidance of licensed teachers, parents help their children learn at home using K12’s comprehensive curriculum and educational materials.

YOUR LISTING HERE! Contact Katie at Katie@CincinnatiParent.com

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 35

TIGER PARENTING on the field Taming the beast within at youth competitions As a middle-aged couple, my husband and I thought it might be fun to join a co-ed softball league.

As it turned out, however, “fun” was not the appropriate term. Besides straining unused muscles I never even knew I had, many of the players on the opposing teams seemed to take the game a little too seriously.

Instead of showing up to have fun playing a game, they showed up only to win. In many cases, they didn’t just want to win, they wanted to pummel the other team.

their pain, and we also see their failures as our failures as parents. As a result, too much emphasis is placed on performance and results, rather than learning and enjoyment.

a distraction to hear crowd noises, but for a child, it is also upsetting. They can easily become frustrated and confused, at which point the game is no longer fun.

We as parents also quickly get our feathers ruffled when we believe our child has been wronged. Therefore, when we see our son fouled during a basketball game or our daughter receive a bad call during her softball game, it’s natural to be upset.

The important thing to remember is that we are not, in fact, helping our child in any way by screaming and yelling.

It’s most important to remember that the way we act is the way our kids think they should act. Angry parents produce angry kids and if we handle our stress and frustrations by yelling or fighting, our kids will handle their own frustrations the same way. As parents, we need to model the behavior we expect and desire in our children. Teach them to handle conflicts and frustrations without hostility.

Unfortunately, this type of behavior is not just limited to adult sports. Adults acting out at youth athletic competitions is becoming a bigger and bigger problem across the nation. Parents fighting with each other, arguing with officials and coaches, and worse, verbally abusing the young players, are all sadly common occurrences. Many schools and athletic institutions such as the National Alliance for Youth Sports, the National High School Athletic Coaches Association and the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation have developed Parent Codes of Conduct, and are even requiring parents to sign an agreement to “behave” at their children’s competitions.

“Parents are so involved in their children’s lives now-a-days,” said Erotas. “Sometimes they are too involved and can find it difficult to separate themselves.”

In addition, children and especially adolescents do not like to be judged. When a parent singles out their child by yelling instructions, advice or corrections, it’s not just embarrassing for the child, it can also be traumatic, in essence, driving them away from sports at a time when group activities and social interaction is essential to development.

“[The fact that] we have parents who are that out of control, should be a warning sign to us.” Christine Ogle Erotas R.N., M.S.N., a certified parenting coach and owner of Work It Out Parent Coaching L.L.C. said. “[Why are we] letting this happen? This behavior is a choice even if we are stressed. People are choosing not to address it or not to get help and other parents are tolerating it. So those should be some real big warning signs to us as a society to get a handle on this.”

WHAT MAKES US ROAR? What is it that causes parents to become so emotional when their child is involved in a competitive situation? There can be many contributing factors. For one, parents are obviously emotionally tied to their child’s failures and successes. Obviously, everyone wants to see their child do well. We feel

Another contributing factor is based on the parents’ own anxieties and anger issues. After a hectic day of work and errands, they are ready to cut loose.

“Many times people come to the games and they’re already angry. Many people carry a lot of anger around with them and [the game] can be an outlet where they think it’s OK and that’s where they let it all out,” Erotas said. The problem occurs when the yelling turns into berating rather than encouragement or cheering.

Sadly, this type of angry belligerence can also be contagious. One loud fan can spur another to act out either for or against him, turning what should be a fun learning experience for a child into a hurtful episode for all.

“By the time they get to high school, the kids drop out because it’s not fun and it’s turned into a performance thing,” says Erotas.

“At a time when kids are on the screens too much, texting, doing Facebook or gaming, they need some positive sharing moments with other individuals. They need to be able to play and have fun and run that energy off. If we drive them away from the sports by making it so intolerable, that’s only going to hurt the children in the long run.”

TAMING THE BEAST When a parent loses control at a youth sporting event, everybody loses. Being a positive role model will make a winner out of both you and your child. When you emphasize to your child that the

object of the game is to learn, have fun and do your best, he or she will not feel the pressure to perform. If you feel the need to say something, keep it positive and encouraging. Never ridicule a child for a missed play or mistake.

After a game, make sure you talk with your child about things that may have gone wrong and let them express their opinion. If a child knows he will be lambasted by his parents after the game, his performance anxiety will be even higher. Keep your comments positive and emphasize the learning elements of the game over winning or losing.

Show respect for coaches and officials, as well as members of the opposing team.

If conflicts arise, handle them in a calm, adult manner. Insults and threats will not just make things harder for you, they will make things harder for your child as well.

Lastly, don’t be a backseat driver. If you are not a coach, don’t coach from the stands.

Let the officials do their job. Conflicting or additional instructions from the stands only upset and confuse children.

Attending youth competitions can be emotional. What we need to remember is that the game is for the children and not the adults. Emphasize to your child that the game is about fun and learning in a social environment rather than about winning and performance. Just remember to emphasize it to yourself as well.

REBECCA TODD is a freelance writer and the author of the book “What’s the Point?”

Contact her at btodd@tds.net.

“It can almost turn into a group bullying thing,” Erotas agreed. “Then it can be rather frightening.”

THE AFFECTS ON OUR YOUNG CUBS First and foremost as parents, we need to consider the affect our behavior is having on our children. It’s obviously CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 37

sun 01 CINCINNATI REDS VS. FLORIDA MARLINS Price: Varies Per Ticket Phone: 513-381-REDS Location: Great American Ballpark. 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.reds.com

Support the Reds as they take on the Marlins! First 10,000 kids (14 and younger) receive Mascot Wall Stickers of Mr. Redlegs and Rosie Red.

PINKIES OUT Times: 1:00 PM Price: $5 Phone: 513-661-2740 Location: Mother of Mercy High School.

3036 Werk Road, Cincinnati, OH 45211 www.motherofmercy. org/FutureBobcats

A tea party for 1st - 4th grade girls and their mothers. Explore the Garden Area of Mother of Mercy High School, enjoy tea, lemonade, sandwiches and cookies, participate in crafts and games, receive give-a-ways and much more. RSVP to Abby Luca, recruiting coordinator, at 513-661-2740 ext. 346 or e-mail luca a@motherofmercy.org

TREE IDENTIFICATION Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Price: FREE Phone: 513-542-2909 Location: Mt. Airy Forest. 5083 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223 Cincinnatiparks.com

Can you tell a beech from a birch, an ash from a walnut? Learn to identify trees through an active detective game in the f ield at Pine Ridge Picnic Area.

Then, with your new knowledge, check out Mt. Airy Arboretum’s collection of trees. Registration requested

TRIPLE CREEK KIDS’ FISHING DERBY Times: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM Price: Free!

Phone: (513) 931-1849

38 CINCINNATI PARENT * MAY 2011

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Location: Triple Creek. 2700 Buell Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45247 GreatParks.org

the Piggliest Raff le, a Post-Race Party and more! Come f ly in Cincinnati!

The lake will be stocked full of channel catf ish just for this event! Youngsters 12 and under can win a trophy if they catch a tagged f ish. Each child who catches any f ish will receive a certif icate and everyone who participates will receive a special derby button. Participants must bring their own equipment. Live bait will be available to purchase at the event.

ARTS FEST

CINCINNATI REDS VS. HOUSTON ASTROS

Price: Free Phone: 859-261-5770 Location: Newport on the Levee. 1 Levee Way, Newport, KY 41071 www.newportonthelevee.com

Price: Varies Per Ticket Phone: 513-381-REDS Location: Great American Ballpark. 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.reds.com

Indoor art show with streetfair f lavor celebrating local artists and unique handcrafted art.

Support the Reds as they take on the Astros!

SENSORY SUNDAY: STORIES, SONGS AND FUN FOR YOU AND YOUR LITTLE ONE

SESAME STREET LIVE: ELMO'S GREEN THUMB

Times: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Price: FREE Phone: 513-703-3343 Location: Gymboree of Mason. 5595 Deerfield Boulevard, Mason, OH 45040 www.myshalomfamily.org

Shalom Family and the Mayerson JCC present a private interactive playgroup for Jewish families with children 18 months and younger in which at least one parent is Jewish! These playgroups are free and feature the popular Miss Meliss, who keeps babies and their parents engaged and entertained with her unique brand of fun.

Play dates always include a snack. RSVP at www.myshalomfamily.org. Shalom Family is an initiative of The Mayerson Foundation for families in the Jewish Community with children ten and under.

TEEN CAFE (AGES 12+) Times: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Price: Free Phone: 859-342-2665 Location: Boone County Public Library.

7425 us 42, Florence, KY 41042 www.bcpl.org

Gaming, Internet, snacks and more No need to register, just drop-in.

MONDAY PRESCHOOL NATURE CAMP

Price: $52, $29, $21, $17, $14 plus parking Phone: 800-745-3000 Location: Bank of Kentucky Center.

500 Nunn Drive, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY 41099 www.bankofkentuckycenter.com

Sunny isn't just the weather forecast - it’s also the name of Elmo’s sunf lower friend.

Join Elmo and friends on an adventure as they help him f ind a new home for Sunny.

Times: 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM Price: $55.00 city resident / $65.00 non- resident for the Spring Phone: 231-8678 Location: California Woods Nature Preserve. 5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45228 Cincinnatiparks.com

Children 4 and up, who have not yet attended Kindergarten, should sign up early for these popular Preschool camps. A different nature topic is presented each week through games, crafts, stories, music and short hikes.

Paid registration required by March 31.

13TH ANNUAL FLYING PIG MARATHON

SPRING GARDEN PARTY

Price: Registration fees vary.

Phone: (513) 721-PIGS (7447) Location: Duke Energy Convention Center. 525 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.flyingpigmarathon.com/

Times: 11:00 AM - 4:30 PM Price: FREE Phone: 513-721-2787 Location: Cincinnati Art Museum. 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45202 cincinnatiartmuseum.org

BABY’S AMAZING JOURNEY

Welcoming athletes of all running abilities, this is a race where you can f ind personal reward. Beyond the race itself there is a full weekend of activities and events for the whole family to enjoy, including a P&G Health & Fitness Expo, Kids’ Marathon, 4-person relays,

Special spring trunk shows including Alexis Bittar jewelry, Rookwood pottery, garden and home decor, 19th century hand-colored engravings and more.

Music, organic ice tea, tea cookies, door prizes, discounts, activities for children and complimentary gift wrap.

Babies have approximately 200 billion brain cells at birth – twice the number of stars in our galaxy! This eye-opening workshop helps parents navigate the challenging waters of infancy by offering effective strategies for dealing with typical eating, sleeping, & fussiness issues, as well as sharing insightful tips that will guide you through expected

Price: $35/parenting team.

Phone: (513) 475-4500 Location: Bethesda North Hospital. 10500 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45242 www.signingsafari.com

MAY 2011 Calendar of Events

05 developmental milestones, assisting you in helping your child reach their fullest potential.

tues 03 CHATTERPILLAR Times: 10:00 AM Price: Free!

Phone: 513-591-2332 Location: Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center. 4244 Hamilton Avenue Cincinnati, OH, Cincinnati, OH 45223 www.theplaceforfamilies.com

Guten Morgen! Bonjour! Hola! The CFEC is hosting weekly foreign language playgroups.

Don't know the language? No problem! You and your child will be immersed in target language play, a fun and effective way to learn a language, for both of you! Birth to 5 years.

BRAIN BALANCE PARENT TALK Time: 7pm Location: Mason Community Center 6050 Mason Montgomery Rd. Mason OH 45040 Phone: 513-257-0705 www.cincinnati.com/brainbalance

Co-Founder of Brain Balance, Dr. Rebert Melillo will be in Cincinnati May 2nd3rd! We invite you to join us for a free parent talk by Dr. Robert Melillo May 3rd.

Visit www.cincinnati.com/brainbalance for more details. Copies of Dr. Melillo's book "Reconnected Kids" will be raffled off at the event. Register today!

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www. myfountainsquare.com

weds 04 CINCINNATI REDS VS. HOUSTON ASTROS Price: Varies Per Ticket Phone: 513-381-REDS Location: Great American Ballpark. 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.reds.com

Support the Reds as they take on the Astros!

thurs 05

Cincinnati celebrates this Mexican holiday on the Square with festive Latin music and salsa dancing lessons. Authentic Mexican beer and food along with margarita’s and caprianas will be available to purchase.

MAGIC THE GATHERING (TEENS 12+) Phone: 859-342-2665 Location: Boone County Public Library.

1786 Burlington Pike, Burlington KY www.bcpl.org

Here, I rule Meet other local players or join us to learn how to get started.

Bring your own deck. No trading.

English cards only. Please register.

EARTH ART SERIES Times: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Price: Free for members/ $5 for nonmembers Phone: 513-921-5124 Location: Imago Earth Center. 700 Enright Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45205 www.imagoearth.org

Children, ages 3-6, along with parents or caregivers are invited to join us in some fun and messy natural art. Together you and your child will embark on artistic explorations, hikes, stories and of course make some great natural art to take home.

This series will take place every other Thursday from March through May. Please visit us online for more information.

fri 06 CAVE OVERNIGHT PROGRAM Price: $28 per camper and per chaperone.

Phone: 287-7000 x 7242 Location: Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45203 http://www.cincymuseum.org/

Grab your sleeping bag and pillow! This popular overnight program is designed to

29 provide visitors with an in-depth study of the longest man made caves. All of CMC’s limestone and ice caves will be explored, animals will be introduced, games will be played, and art will be made. You will enjoy the OMNIMAX f ilm, Journey into Amazing Caves, the next morning.

ON BROADWAY WITH THE MIGHTY WURLITZER Price: $20-$25/person Phone: 513.381.3300 Location: Music Hall. 1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.cincinnatiarts.org

Mark Hardy and Lisa Ericksen, veterans of Broadway, national tours, opera and the concert stage, will be joined by two rising stars from Northern Kentucky University's musical theatre program for a celebration of classic Broadway.

Highlighting the remarkable theatricality of the Mighty Wurlitzer, this foursome will feature favorites from Broadway's golden age along with some current surprises!

FANTASTIC FARM FRIDAYS Times: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Price: Free: Call to Register!

Phone: (513) 521- 3276 ext.100

CINCO DE MAYO

CIRCUS EXPERIENCE: JOIN THE CIRCUS FOR A NIGHT Ongoing on the first Tuesday and third Tuesday of each Month.

Price: Free Phone: 513-921-5454 Location: Essex Studios. 501 Minnesota Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45206 http://www.amazingportablecircus.com/

Bring your child to join the circus for a night at our Studio in Clifton Ohio. He can learn and see some of the skills that we perform on a daily basis like ballooning and juggling.

Times: 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM Phone: 513.621.4400 Location: Fountain Square.

Fountain Square Fifth and Vine streets, Cincinnati, OH 45202 CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 39

Location: Sharon Woods. 11355 Swing Road, Cincinnati, OH 45241 GreatParks.org

Help plant the garden, build a scarecrow, card wool, measure using “hands” or write with a quill pen. Try numerous handson farm activities designed especially for young children and their adult friends. You can even fish with the Buckeye United Fly Fishers at the pond (bait and poles provided).

Experience the farm through live animal demonstrations such as sheep shearing and goat milking. Please call in advance to register.

FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY HOP Times: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Price: FREE! Phone: 859-292-2322 Location: Covington Arts District. Madison Avenue, Pike Street and MainStrasse Village, Covington, KY 41011 www.covingtonartmerchants.com

First Friday of every month. Covington's galleries, shops, studios, restaurants and bars displaying art, music and more.

MOTHER'S DAY TEA PARTY! Times: 6:00 PM Price: Price is $30 per child. ($25 for siblings).

Phone: 513-477-2368 Location: The Enchanted Village. Lebanon, OH.

Come and play dress-up, do a craft, decorate cookies and enjoy a light snack with your special girl(s). The Enchanted Village features a Narnia & Fairy Garden Room where imaginations soar. The best part- parents just take pictures and enjoy watching your little princess have a great time! Space is limited so reservations are required. This party is best suited for girls ages 4-9.

THE PLANT SALE PREVIEW PARTY

Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Price: $40 Phone: 513-221-0981 Location: Civic Garden Center of Greater Cincinnati. 2715 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45206 www.civicgardencenter.org

Shopping, auctions, dinner-by-the-bite, wine and music by Stoopid Rooster. Silent auction includes plants, massages, pottery, jewelry and more. Benefits Civic Garden Center.

Location: 650 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.cincinnatiarts.org

STOMP is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, utterly unique and appeals to audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation, eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. See what all the noise is about.

42ND ANNUAL APPALACHIAN FESTIVAL Occurring Daily Through Sunday, May 08, 2011.

Price: General Admission (12 years & older): $8, Seniors (55+): $4, Chi Phone: (513) 232-8230 Location: Coney Island. 6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45228 www.appalachianfestival.org

What has become one of Cincinnati's most popular annual festivals began decades ago in the basement of Cincinnati's Music Hall as a quaint crafts' exhibition developed by the Cincinnati Junior League. Today, the Appalachian Festival draws nearly 50,000 people over the three-day event to Coney Island on the shores of the Ohio River!

STOMP

Occurring Daily Through Sunday, May 08, 2011.

Price: $22.50 - $57.50 Phone: 513-621-5282

sat 07 BETHEL ART & MUSIC FESTIVAL Times: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Phone: 513-734-4445 Location: North Main and West Plane streets, Bethel, OH 45106

Artisan displays, food booths, music stages, wine tasting and more.

BUTTERFLY WALK FOR CANCERFREE KIDS Price: Registration prices vary.

Phone: (513) 535-2948 Location: Cottell Park. 5847 Irwin Simpson Road, Deerfield Township, OH www.butterflywalk.com

The Butterfly Walk is not your average charity walk, it’s a celebration of courage. It’s a chance to show your support for children with cancer and to help fund life saving research. It’s a time to remember those who have passed and a time to celebrate life with an afternoon full of fun, music, a great festival and activities for the whole family. Please join us for the 5th annual event and help us to break $260,000!

CINCY-CINCO LATIN FESTIVAL Occurring Daily Through Sunday, May 08, 2011.

Price: FREE Phone: 513.621.4400 Location: Fountain Square.

Fountain Square Fifth and Vine streets, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.myfountainsquare.com

Authentic Latin American food, art, music, dancing and children’s activities.

CRAFTY SUPERMARKET Times: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Phone: 513-562-8748 Location: Clifton Cultural Arts Center.

3711 Clifton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220 www.cliftonculturalarts.org

Craft and food vendors, do-ityourself craft activities and more.

FAMILY FLOAT FEST Times: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Price: $25 Adult $75 Family of Four $10 Addl child Phone: 513-221-4673 ext 253 Location: Morgan’s Outdoor Adventures. 7040 Whitewater River Lane, Brookville, IN 47012 www.morganscanoe.com

Centerpoint Health invites you to our first annual Family Float Fest at Morgan's Outdoor Adventures in Brookville, IN. This is a great event for families and canoeing enthusiasts!

Event highlights- River float canoe, kayak or raft, Pig Roast, Music/entertainment, Family fun activities, Nature hikes, Raffle prizes.

Transportation: On-going livery services will be provided to lodge/food fest. Proceeds will benefit Centerpoint Health's Camp Possible and other children's programming.

OPEN STUDIO SPECIAL Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Price: $20 for kids under 18 and $25 for adults Phone: 513-271-2793 Location: Cheers to Art. 7700 Camargo Road, Madeira, OH 45243 www.cheerstoart.com

Studio open to everyone to come in to create a one of a kind masterpiece for a special Mothers Day gift. Use our wall of inspiration or create your own work of art, and take it home that day! No reservation required.

TRI-STATE MULTIPLES SCRAPATHON Price: $25/$30 Phone: 859-391-3019 Location: Evendale Recreation Center.

10500 Reading Road, Cincinnati OH. http://www.tristatemultiples. com/events/scrap.asp

BUTTERFLY WALK FOR CANCERFREE KIDS saturday, may 07 Cottell Park 40 CINCINNATI PARENT * MAY 2011

Join us for a fun-filled day including: (Vendors on site): Creative Memories, Close to My Heart, Stampin' Up, ThirtyOne, Scentsy, Usborn Books, Fancy Free Crystal Tees. Plus, Door prizes, raffle prizes, scrapbook bingo and more.

Light breakfast, lunch, drinks and snacks provided. Benefiting The Tri-State Multiples Families First Fund. A charitable fund that assists families of Higher Order Multiple Birth Children (triplets or more) experiencing extreme financial need.

CURIOUS GEORGE Occurring Daily Through Sunday, May 08, 2011.

Times: 11:00am, 1:15pm, 3:30pm Price: Adults: $18.50, Seniors (62+): $15.50, Children (5-16): $15.50, Phone: (513) 933-8022 Location: Lebanon Mason Monroe RR. 127 South Mechanic Street, Lebanon, OH 45036 www.lebanonrr.com

Take a train ride to see Curious George and the Man in the Yellow Hat! Play on the LM&M play set, enjoy story reading of the classic Curious George favorites, and create a craft! Bring kids, grandparents, and friends to enjoy this memorable moment, but don’t forget your camera! Please remember to dress for the weather, as this event is outside!

TINY TUNES TOGETHER FAMILY MUSIC FUN

tues 10

Occurring Every Mon & Sat Through Saturday, May 21, 2011.

Times: 12:30 PM Price: $100/10 class package for one child or $120 for two Phone: 513-591-2332 Location: Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center. 4244 Hamilton Avenue Cincinnati, OH, Cincinnati, OH 45223 www.theplaceforfamilies.com

GREEN, CLEAN, HEALTHY (AND CHEAP!)

This joyful class of musical play incorporates songs from all over the world emphasizing many different cultures. Class is designed so families with children from birth to age 5 can enjoy making music together - we’ll shake, rattle, and roll! Ages: Birth to 5 years

Times: 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Price: $27; *Pre-Registration required by May 3rd Phone: 513-759-4458 Location: 8933 Cincinnati-Dayton Rd, West Chester, OH 45069

gracetreestudio.com

Ready to take the next step into environmental living? Creating your own cleaning solutions is not only clean and green—it’s also cheap, healthy, easy and fun.

In this workshop, we will discuss the hows and whys, prepare our potions, and leave with our new cleaning arsenal in hand. You will also leave with recipes, pricing, and resources for when you’re ready for you first refill.

weds 11 For more events, check out www. cincinnatiparent.com

sun 08

MOTHERS DAY - SPECIAL PAINTING SESSION Times: 4:00 PM Price: $30/person Phone: 513-271-2793 Location: Cheers to Art. 7700 Camargo Road, Madeira, OH 45243 www.cheerstoart.com

MOM'S PAINT FREE with paid painter! Register and call to add your mother to the reservation!!

MOMS PLAY FREE AT LAZER KRAZE! Price: Moms are FREE! Phone: (513) 339-1030 at Deerfield Township or (859) 371-KRAZ at Erlanger www.LazerKraze.com

It’s your day, Mom, so bring the family in for some fun on us! You play free and your family may purchase games at a discounted rate of $5 per person for each game. See you there!!

mon 09 DOES SPAGHETTI BOUNCE (AGES 9-12) Times: 6:30 PM Price: Free Phone: 859-342-2665

Location: Boone County Public Library. 1786 Burlington Pike, Burlington, KY 41005 www.bcpl.org

Lots of audience participation as the Riegling Magical Science Company amazes you with wacky science. Please register.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 41

thurs 12 MOMS MATTER, TOO! HELPING BUSY MOMS GET CENTERED, RECLAIM THEIR ENERGY AND ENJOY LIFE Times: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Price: $15 per workshop. You must pre-register for each workshop.

Phone: (513) 231-6630 Location: Beech Acres Parenting Center. 6881 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45230 www.ForTheLoveofKids.org

Have you ever felt stressed and completely overwhelmed as mom? If your answer is yes, then this workshop is for you! In this Moms Only workshop, you will learn that you are not alone. We will discuss ways to “center” ourselves by identifying our strengths so that we can be resilient in difficult times. So, take an hour out of your day and spend some time for you, Mom.

STAMPING COMBO CAMP Times: 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM Price: $40 Phone: 513-522-1154 Location: Springfield Township Senior and Conference Center. 9158 Winton Road, Cincinnati, OH 45231 www.springfieldtwp.org

Make five seasonal greeting cards, two gift items and scrapbooking layout/project using the latest stamps, tools and techniques. All experience levels. Ages 12 and under. All supplies provided. Registration required.

www.myfountainsquare.com

Featuring dozens of wines from around the world. Live, light jazz provided a sophisticated atmosphere starting at 5 pm with the gypsy jazz of the Faux Frenchmen followed by the Psycho Dots. A variety of delicious foods to complement the wines will be available for purchase.

CINCINNATI REDS VS. STL Price: Varies Per Ticket Phone: 513-381-REDS Location: Great American Ballpark. 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.reds.com

OVERNIGHT AT THE MUSEUM PROGRAM

Sample dance, music and art from around the world. Includes snacks, face painting and crafts.

Price: The cost is $28 per camper and per chaperone.

Phone: 287-7000 x. 7242 Location: Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45203 http://www.cincymuseum.org/

Grab your sleeping bag and pillow! This new overnight program is designed to allow guests to enjoy all of the Natural History and Science Museum after hours. Guests will be guided through cave, space, and dinosaur exhibits with the addition of animal demonstration. Enjoy the OMNIMAX film, Destiny in Space, the next morning.

Times: 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM Phone: 513-561-1888 Location: The Mad Potter. 7754 Camargo Rd., Madeira, OH 45243 www.mymadpotter.com/Madeira/

TRASH TO TREASURE SALE

With record setting attendance, this popular wine-tasting series reached a new level of success in 2010. Held in various locations throughout the park, each event features wine sampling (8 different wines), live music, and up-close animal encounters.

Light appetizers donated from popular local restaurants round out the event.

Guests also receive a souvenir wine glass.

fri 13 2011 WINE TASTING AT FOUNTAIN SQUARE Times: 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM Phone: 513.621.4400 Location: Fountain Square.

Fountain Square Fifth and Vine streets, Cincinnati, OH 45202 42 CINCINNATI PARENT * MAY 2011

sat 14 CARNIVAL OF CULTURES

Support the Reds as they take on the Cardinals! Come for Fireworks Friday after the game!

Paint pottery and try some very yummy treats!

Times: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM Price: $35 pre-sale; $45 day of (if available) Phone: 513-559-7759 Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens. 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220 http://www.cincinnatizoo.org

Traditionally the celebration of the first spring wine, Maifest in MainStrasse Village is an annual festival offering music, food and drink, kids rides, arts and crafts vendors, and more, with a great German atmosphere.

Times: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Price: Free!

Phone: 859-342-2665 Location: Boone County Public Library.

7425 U.S. 42, Florence, Ky 41042 www.bcpl.org

TASTEFULLY SIMPLY PARTY! WILD ABOUT WINE AT THE CINCINNATI ZOO

Location: Mainstrasse Village. Main Street, Covington, KY 41011 www.mainstrasse.org

Times: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Phone: 513-777-4370 Location: Christ the King Lutheran Church. 7393 Dimmick Road, West Chester, OH 45069 www.ctkluth.org

Items sold include clothing, household items, and furniture. Benefits Christ the King Lutheran Church.

CINCITALIA, CINCINNATI ITALIAN FESTIVAL Occurring Daily Through Sunday, May 15, 2011.

Price: $1 Phone: (513)481-2830 Location: Harvest Home Park. 3961 North Bend Road, Cheviot, OH 45211 www.cincitalia.org

Celebration of food, family and all aspects of Italian culture: art, history, fashion, craftsmanship and sports. Showcase for Italian food, wine and music. Benefits St. Catharine of Siena Parish.

MAIFEST Occurring Daily Through Sunday, May 15, 2011.

Phone: (859) 491-0458

HUMANA BIG BUGS 5K RUN AND KIDS FUN RUN Times: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Phone: 513-521-7275 Location: Glenwood Gardens. 10397 Springfield Pike, Woodlawn, OH 45215 http://www.greatparks.org

Jump, fly, crawl or slither on over to Glenwood Gardens on Saturday, May 14 for one memorable event The Humana Big Bugs 5k Run and Kids fun Run begins at 8:00 a.m. and will be unlike any race in the tri-state, with a 3.1 mile trek through scenic Glenwood Gardens and among the huge insect sculptures that are part of the new David Rogers’ Big Bugs exhibit.

MUSE – CINCINNATI’S WOMEN’S CHOIR SPRING CONCERT Times: 7:30 PM Phone: 513-221-1118 Location: 108 W. Central Parkway, Cincinnati, OH www.musechoir.org

For her 28th Annual Spring Concert, MUSE sings out against bullying and reaches out to promote open-mindedness, unity, kindness. The children of MUSE will take the stage with their mothers, grandmothers, aunts and friends for their traditional song and there will be many old favorites.

PAYING IT FORWARD TOGETHER Times: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

CINCITALIA, CINCINNATI ITALIAN FESTIVAL friday, may 13 - sunday, may 15 Harvest Home Park

Price: $5, free for children. Golf Classic: $340 per foursome.

Phone: 513-295-2855 Location: Glenview Golf Course. 10965 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45246 www.cincygolf.org/glenview/ glenview.htm

Music, raffles, auction, giveaways, concessions and more. Inflatables, games, magician and more for children. Benefits American Cancer Society, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, CancerFree Kids and more.

PETER AND THE WOLF AND THE FROG PRINCE Times: 11:00 AM Price: $7.00 for Adults; $5.00 for Children Phone: 513.241.6550 Location: Covedale Center for Performing Arts. 4990 Glenway Avenue, Cincinnati, OH www.cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com

Adapted and narrated for marionettes "Peter and the Wolf" tells the story of a little boy who captures a ferocious wolf and "The Frog Prince," is the Grimm brothers' famous tale of the princess who kissed a frog and found a prince. See the most incredible handcrafted puppets of Frisch Marionette Company act out Sergei Prokofiev’s musical tale and music of Dmitri Kabalevsky.

SATURNDAY! Times: 9:00 PM - 11:00 PM Price: $6/person Phone: (513) 321-5186 Location: Cincinnati Observatory. 3489 Observatory Place, Cincinnati, OH 45208 www.cincinnatiobservatory.org

Mars may get the headlines, but

no planet is more breathtaking than Saturn.

The Lord of the Rings takes center stage at the Observatory for Saturndays.

TRIMATHLON! Price: Free Phone: 513-948-1212 Location: Mathnasium of Blue Ash. 9525 Kenwood Rd Ste 15, Cincinnati, OH 45212 www.mathnasiumtrimathlon.com

Mathnasium presents 1st National TriMathlon! A math competition for children 3rd-6th grade testing their number sense and showing kids that math can be fun! Prizes will be awarded for top scorers for each grade (National winners split $10,000 in prizes)

CURIOUS GEORGE Occurring Daily Through Sunday, May 15, 2011.

Price: Adults: $18.50, Seniors (62+): $15.50, Children (5-16): $15.50, Phone: (513) 933-8022 Location: Lebanon Mason Monroe RR. 127 South Mechanic Street, Lebanon, OH 45036 www.lebanonrr.com

Take a train ride to see Curious George and the Man in the Yellow Hat! Play on the LM&M play set, enjoy story reading of the classic Curious George favorites, and create a craft! Bring kids, grandparents, and friends to enjoy this memorable moment, but don’t forget your camera! Please remember to dress for the weather, as this event is outside!

Departure times at 11:00am 1:15pm, 3:30pm.

sun 15 SENSORY SUNDAY: STORIES, SONGS AND FUN FOR YOU AND YOUR LITTLE ONE Times: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Price: FREE Phone: 513-703-3343 Location: Gymboree of Mason. 5595 Deerfield Boulevard, Mason, OH 45040 www.myshalomfamily.org

Shalom Family and the Mayerson JCC present a private interactive playgroup for Jewish families with children 18 months and younger in which at least one parent is Jewish! These playgroups are free and feature the popular Miss Meliss, who keeps babies and their parents engaged and entertained with her unique brand of fun.

Play dates always include a snack. RSVP at www.myshalomfamily.org. Shalom Family is an initiative of The Mayerson Foundation for families in the Jewish Community with children ten and under.

SUNDAY SUN-DAY SUNDAE Times: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Price: $6/person Phone: (513) 321-5186 Location: Cincinnati Observatory. 3489 Observatory Place, Cincinnati, OH 45208 www.cincinnatiobservatory.org

Combine safe solar viewing and ice cream sundaes... what could be better?

mon 16

weds 18 MEDIATAINMENT Times: 7:00 PM Price: $7 in advance, $8 at the door; 50% off for Planetarium Members Phone: 513-396-5578 Location: Drake Planetarium. 2020 Sherman Ave., 4th floor of Norwood High School, Cincinnati, OH 45212 www.drakeplanetarium.org

Join us for guided meditation under the stars at Drake Planetarium for a time to relax and rejuvenate. Meditainment involves a blend of proven meditation techniques with stories, music and natural sound effects set under a canopy of moving space images.

SILLY SCIENCE! - NEW! WHY, WHY, WHY? Times: 9:30 AM Price: $100/10 class package or $13/class Phone: 513-591-2332 Location: Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center. 4244 Hamilton Avenue Cincinnati, OH, Cincinnati, OH 45223 www.theplaceforfamilies.com

Mushy and messy creative explorations for the child who loves to get their hands goopy! Children are born scientists: they are naturally curious about the world around them, and learn best through hands-on experimentation. Whether we’ll be learning about worms, bubbles, dinosaurs, water, sand, or bugs, each sensorial class is designed to captivate your child’s curious nature and fulfill their natural desire to touch, see and explore. Ages: 18 to 35 months

thurs 19 CINCINNATI REDS VS. PITTSBURG PIRATES Price: Varies per Ticket Phone: 513-381-REDS Location: Great American Ball Park. 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati OH 45202. www.reds.com

Support the Reds as they take on the Pirates!

EARTH ART SERIES Times: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Price: Free for members/ $5 for nonmembers Phone: 513-921-5124 Location: Imago Earth Center. 700 Enright Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45205 www.imagoearth.org

Children, ages 3-6, along with parents or caregivers are invited to join us in some fun and messy natural art. Together you and your child will embark on artistic explorations, hikes, stories and of course make some great natural art to take home.

This series will take place every other Thursday from March through May. Please visit us online for more information

fri 20 MAY FESTIVAL Occurring Daily Through Sunday, May 22, 2011.

Phone: 513.381.3300

THE SEARCH FOR ANOTHER EARTH Price: $18/person Phone: (513) 321-5186 Location: Cincinnati Observatory. 3489 Observatory Place, Cincinnati OH 45208 www.cincinnatiobservatory.org

Powerful telescopes both on Earth and in space are finding hundreds of planets orbiting other stars. Could one be earthlike? Could one be harbor life? Learn how astronomers search for these other worlds and what conditions are needed for life as we know it to be exist.

tues 17 B-I-N-G-O (AGES 4-8) Times: 6:30 PM Price: Free Phone: 859-342-2665 Location: Boone County Public Library. 8899 us 42, Union, KY 41091 www.bcpl.org

Enjoy an ice cream cone and play a game of Bingo. Please register.

CINCINNATI REDS VS. CHICAGO CUBS Price: Varies per Ticket Phone: 513-381-REDS

Location: Great American Ball Park.

100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati OH. www.reds.com

Support the Reds as they take on the Cubs!

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 43

Location: Music Hall. 1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 mayfestival.com

America’s Premier Choral Festival presents 90th season with masterworks that feature the May Festival Chorus and celebrate the power of the human voice. For two weekends each May the music world turns to Cincinnati for an unsurpassed experience in choral music performance.

BIRDS ALONG THE OHIO Times: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Price: FREE Phone: 231-8678 Location: Fernbank Park. Thornton at River Road, Cincinnati, OH 45233 Cincinnatiparks.com

Let's explore the birds along the Ohio River, one of North America's most important fly-ways. See which birds might be flying through, or arriving for a summer stay. We will have a table set up with binoculars so you can try your hand at birding, examples of birds in the area and information on how to find them on your own will be available Meet by the playground.

FREAKY FRIDAY FISH TOSS Times: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Phone: 513.621.4400 Location: Fountain Square.

Fountain Square Fifth and Vine streets, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.myfountainsquare.com

In Seattle, fish tossing at the Pike Place Market is a top tourist draw. In Cincinnati, it’s another wacky contest that brings people out to Fountain Square.

12 teams of four people will have 60 seconds to toss fish from teammate to teammate down a 50-foot course.

epidemic and raise funds for autism research, family services and advocacy. Pre-walk entertainment includes an autism information fair. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m., and the walk starts at 10:00 a.m. Participants and their children will be able to enjoy the Coney Island rides, following the walk at 11:00 a.m.

ART IN THE MAKING Times: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Price: 20 per each child/adult pair public, $6 for each additional person Phone: 513-721-2787 Location: Cincinnati Art Museum. 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45202 cincinnatiartmuseum.org

Come join us at the Wolff Planetarium for an introduction to the constellations and some of the legends connected to them.

Programs are open to adults and children ages 5 and older accompanied by an adult.

Reservations required. Seating is limited.

sat 21 2011 WALK NOW FOR AUTISM SPEAKS Times: 8:00 AM Price: Walkers are asked to raise a minimum of $25.

Phone: 866-500-6227 Location: Coney Island. 6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45228 www.WalkNowForAutismSpeaks. org/Cincinnati

Join Walk Now for Autism Speaks at Coney Island, and experience the power of thousands united by a single cause. The walk will help to increase awareness about the growing autism 44 CINCINNATI PARENT * MAY 2011

Explore this scenic stretch of wilderness and river Learn about the history of this area and the flora and fauna inhabiting it.

We'll go over canoeing basics and provide the canoes, paddles and lifejackets. Pack a lunch in a Ziploc bag and wear sturdy closetoed shoes. We'll pull in along the bank to picnic before we head back. Families and individuals welcome but register early - space is limited, only two children, 6 years and up, accompanied by an adult.

PAIGE’S PRINCESS RUN

Don’t just a book by its cover! Parents and children collaborate with local artist, Katie Labmeier to learn the intricate art of bookmaking. Interactive class includes a gallery tour and hands-on art making activity. Classes are designed for children ages 6-12 accompanied by an adult.

Times: 9:00 AM Price: $20 Adult Registration, $15 Youth Registration, $60 Family Regis Phone: (513) 759-8100 Location: Wyandot Elementary School. 7667 Summerlin Blvd, Liberty Township, OH 45044 www.paigesprincessrun.com

CINCINNATI ZOO'S NIGHT HUNTERS EXHIBIT OPENING WEEKEND

Come for the first annual Paige’s Princess Run, a 5k Run/Walk and Family Carnival, planned in loving memory of Paige Helene Alessandro, 2004-2010, who bravely battled a spinal vascular disease her entire life. This event is planned for Paige’s family, friends, teachers and classmates to spend a fun-filled day celebrating her life. As we finish the Family Walk, we invite families to join us for a celebration of Paige’s life. The carnival will feature: Cool Critters Outreach, Inflatables, a DJ, Face Painting, Princess Hair Makeovers, Carnival Games, Basket Auctions, Pop corn, snow cones, cotton candy and more!

Times: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Price: Free with admission Phone: 513-281-4700 Location: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens. 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220 http://www.cincinnatizoo.org

This renovated exhibit merges the best of the Nocturnal House and the Cat House into one.

FISHING FUN WITH EXOTIC BAIT

TOWER CHALLENGE

SUMMER SKIES PREVIEW: WOLFF PLANETARIUM Times: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Price: $3 per person Phone: 513-751-3679 Location: Burnet Woods Wolff Planetarium.

3251 Brookline Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45220 Cincinnatiparks.com

Location: Magrish Riverlands Preserve.

5000 Salem, Cincinnati, OH 45230 Cincinnatiparks.com

Times: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Price: FREE Phone: 513-751-3679 Location: Burnet Woods Lake. 3251 Brookline Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45220 Cincinnatiparks.com

Bring your small fry out for a morning of fishing fun. You are welcome to bring your own equipment or use a cane pole from the Nature Center. Bait and training are provided; a fishing license is NOT required. Meet at the north end of the lake.

Times: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Price: $5 per child, per session for members; $7 per child per session Phone: (513) 287-7021 Location: Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45203 http://www.cincymuseum.org/

Challenge yourself, and your peers to see who can build the best tower. You bring your skills; we’ll give you the supplies. Whoever builds the best tower takes home the prize.

These interactive family workshops are designed for 9 to 15-year-olds! Museum admission is not included in the workshop fee.

Take a train ride to see Curious George and the Man in the Yellow Hat! Play on the LM&M play set, enjoy story reading of the classic Curious George favorites, and create a craft! Bring kids, grandparents, and friends to enjoy this memorable moment, but don’t forget your camera! Please remember to dress for the weather, as this event is outside!

sun 22 "DOG PADDLE" TO BENEFIT CANCERFREE KIDS Times: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Price: Early registration is $50 per canoe Phone: 513-922-7658 Location: Morgan’s Outdoor Adventures. 5701 State Route 350, Oregonia, OH 45054 www.morganscanoe.com

Price includes a canoe for two adults, two children, a dog and lunch for everyone! If you don't have a dog, just come for the fun!

mon 23 MUSIC AND MOVEMENT Times: 10:00 AM Price: $5 per child, per session for members; $7 per child per session Phone: (513) 287-7021 Location: Cincinnati Museum Center.1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45203 http://www.cincymuseum.org/

Discover the magic of music together!

Children, along with a parent or caregiver, are invited to sing, dance, chant and play instruments in an informal setting.

Eliana Corredor, a registered Music Together teacher who has a Masters in Music, leads this workshop. Designed for ages birth to 3 years. Museum admission not included with workshop fee.

SACRED WOMAN: THE ART OF BELLYDANCE Times: 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM Phone: 513-759-4458 Location: Grace Tree Yoga & Growth Studio. 8933 Cincinnati-Dayton Rd, West Chester, OH 45069 gracetreestudio.com

All levels welcome!

CURIOUS GEORGE

tues 24

INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL

MUSIC CAFE

Times: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Price: Free Phone: 513-363-7800 Location: Academy of World Languages.

2030 Fairfax Ave., City, OH 45207

Times: 7:00 PM Price: FREE Phone: (513) 863-8873 Location: Fitton Center for Creative Arts. 101 South Monument Avenue, Hamilton, OH 45011 www.fittoncenter.org/musiccafe.html

Come to the International Festival at the Academy of World Languages!

Games, Raffles, International Food, Performances and more!!

LITTLE MIAMI EXPEDITION Times: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM Price: FREE Phone: 513-861-3435

Occurring Daily Through Sunday, May 22, 2011.

Times: 11:00am, 1:15pm, 3:30pm Price: Adults: $18.50, Seniors (62+): $15.50, Children (5-16): $15.50, Phone: (513) 933-8022 Location: Lebanon Mason Monroe RR.127 South Mechanic Street, Lebanon, OH 45036 www.lebanonrr.com

An evening at Music Café is like music to your ears. Literally. Featuring a wide variety of musical performances of all ages.

Come enjoy melodies from all genres, including everything from folk music and worldly sounds to bluegrass and hard rock.

PAJAMA PARTY (AGES 2-5)

FINAL FRIDAY

Times: 6:30 PM Price: Free Phone: 859-342-2665 Location: Boone County Public Library. 1786 Burlington Pike, Burlington, KY 41005 www.bcpl.org

Times: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Phone: 513-241-2690 Location: Main Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Bring your favorite stuffed friend for sleepytime stories. Please register.

weds 25 PLANETARIUM SHOW DISCOVERIES OF THE GREAT OBSERVATORIES Times: 7:00 PM Price: $6 in advance, $7 at the door.

Free for Planetarium Members with Phone: 513-396-5578 Location: Drake Planetarium. 2020 Sherman Ave., 4th floor of Norwood High School, Cincinnati, OH 45212 www.drakeplanetarium.org

NASA JPL Ambassador, Pam Bowers, takes us on a journey of discovery using images from the Spitzer Space Telescope and Chandra X-ray Observatory. These images provide both stunning beauty and a wealth of scientif ic information.

Find out interesting facts, like why Cassiopeia A, a supernova in the Milky Way, acts like a pinball machine, or how stars and black holes are formed.

thurs 26 MAY LADIES NIGHT - FLOWER GIRL Times: 7:00 PM Price: $25/person Phone: 513-271-2793 Location: Cheers to Art. 7700 Camargo Road, Madeira, OH 45243 www.cheerstoart.com

The perfect painting for any girl's bedroom, dressing area or bath! Special price for this session, 20% OFF Boutique items, drink specials, light appetizers and a FREE class drawing. Don't miss this one...

fri 27 FANTASTIC FARM FRIDAYS Times: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Price: Free: Call to Register!

Phone: (513) 521- 3276 ext.100 Location: Sharon Woods. 11355 Swing Road, Cincinnati, OH 45241 GreatParks.org

Help plant the garden, build a scarecrow, card wool, measure using “hands” or write with a quill pen. Try numerous handson farm activities designed especially for young children and their adult friends.

You can even f ish with the Buckeye United Fly Fishers at the pond (bait and poles provided). Experience the farm through live animal demonstrations such as sheep shearing and goat milking.

Please call in advance to register.

sun 29 FAMILY HIKING CLUB

tues 31 CINCINNATI REDS VS. MILWAUKEE BREWERS

Presented by Merchants of Main Street.

Open house of shops and galleries from 12th to Liberty streets.

MAY FESTIVAL Occurring Daily Through Saturday, May 28, 2011.

Phone: 513.381.3300 Location: Music Hall. 1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 mayfestival.com

America’s Premier Choral Festival presents 90th season with masterworks that feature the May Festival Chorus and celebrate the power of the human voice. For two weekends each May the music world turns to Cincinnati for an unsurpassed experience in choral music performance.

sat 28 5TH ANNUAL TRI FOR JOE Times: 8:00 AM Price: Registration fees vary.

Phone: 513-232-8230 Location: Coney Island. 6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45228 www.coneyislandpark.com

Be a part of this triathlon to benef it the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati. The Sprint Triathlon consists of a 700-meter swim (2 long laps around Sunlite Pool perimeter), a 20-kilometer bike ride (f lat and fast course along scenic Route 52) and a 5-kilometer run inside the park. Other events include a Duathlon, a 5-kilometer Run/Walk and a Fun Run for kids age 8 and under.

Come join the fun for a good cause!

Times: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Price: $5 suggested donation per family Phone: 513-921-5124 Location: Yellow Springs. 3790 State Rte. 370, Yellow Springs, OH www.imagoearth.org

Hikes specially designed for families with kids at any age. We pick locations that are not too far away and hikes that are not ridiculously hard. You’ll be led by three experienced naturalists and nature educators with kids of their own who’ll have lots of fun activities that will enrich the experience. For this trip we will visit the Yellow Springs region to check out all the fantastic hikes in this area. Please visit our website to register and for more information.

Price: Varies Per Ticket Phone: 513-381-REDS Location: Great American Ballpark. 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.reds.com

Support the Reds as they take on the Brewers!

FOR EVEN MORE GREAT EVENTS, VISIT CINCINNATIPARENT.COM!

mon 30 CINCINNATI REDS VS. MILWAUKEE BREWERS Price: Varies Per Ticket Phone: 513-381-REDS Location: Great American Ballpark. 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.reds.com

Support the Reds as they take on the Brewers!

CANVAS AND KIDS - DOG OR CAT Times: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Price: $25/person Phone: 513-271-2793 Location: Cheers to Art. 7700 Camargo Road, Madeira, OH 45243 www.cheerstoart.com

Painters choice - Dog or Cat... paint them your own! Not just for kids - Fun for ALL AGES!

P&G TASTE OF CINCINNATI USA Occurring Daily Through Monday, May 30, 2011.

Times: 12:00 PM Phone: 513.621.4400 Location: Fountain Square.

Fountain Square Fifth and Vine streets, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.myfountainsquare.com

Come for the annual food extravaganza and one of the nation's largest street festivals!

Featuring more than 40 f ine restaurants serving up delicious and delectable menu items, plus the Taste of Cincinnati Rock Stage, a music festival, with continuous live entertainment featuring local and national recording stars performing on multiple stages throughout the weekend!

MAY LADIES NIGHTFLOWER GIRL thursday, may 26 Cheers to Art CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 45

ONGOING EVENTS CINCINNATI ZOO BABIES Occurring Daily Beginning Sunday, May 01, 2011 Through Tuesday, May 31, 2011.

Times: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Price: Free with admission Phone: 513-281-4700 Location: 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220 http://www.cincinnatizoo.org

Enjoy Zoo Babies all month with three special weekends of children's entertainment.

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL OVO Occurring Daily (except Mon) Through Sunday, May 08, 2011.

Price: Starts at $45 for adults Phone: 513-232-8230 Location: Coney Island. 6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45228 www.cirquedusoleil.com

OVO is a headlong rush into a colourful ecosystem teeming with life, where insects work, eat, crawl, flutter, play, fight and look for love in a non-stop riot of energy and movement.

CLEOPATRA: THE SEARCH FOR THE LAST QUEEN OF EGYPT Occurring Daily Through Monday, September 05, 2011.

Price: $23 adult, $15 child, and $19 senior; with discounts for Members Phone: 1.800.733.2077 Location: Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45203 http://www.cincymuseum.org/

Phone: 614-228-2674 or 1-888-819-2674 Location: COSI. 333 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215 www.cosi.org

Dinosaurs that walked the earth millions of years ago will roar to life! Features scientifically accurate animatronic dinosaurs, complete with movement and sound. A 3,000 square foot maze offers future paleontologists a chance to uncover dinosaur facts and fossils while measuring their prehistoric knowledge. And COSI’s new digital theater will present the 3D feature Waking the T-Rex: The Story of Sue.

46 CINCINNATI PARENT * May 2011

www.bluemanateebooks.com

Get ready for silly stories, fun fingerplays, and sing-alongs with Miss Gail! free and open to our friends ages 2 and up.

The Cincinnati Park Board presents its 16th annual Butterfly Show at the Krohn Conservatory–featuring the fascinating styles, sounds, and soul of Brazil. The 2011 "Butterflies of Brazil" brings to Cincinnati the vibrant modernism, lush tropical flora and fauna, and the mystery of AfroBrazilian folklore.

Get "up close and personal" with an amazing array of butterflies from exotic Brazil.

Produce, baked goods, prepared lunch foods and beverages, flowers and handmade items.

Get swept away into the beauty and raw power of some of the most dangerous and breathtaking weather events in the world premiere of Tornado Alley. Join Sean Casey, star of the Discovery Channels Storm Chaser series, on a heart-pounding mission to understand the origins, structure and evolution of tornadoes. Show times vary.

Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, May 28, 2011 Through Monday, September 05, 2011.

Times: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45209

STRAUSS & TROY MARKET

DAVID ROGERS’ BIG BUGS!

DINOSAURS: EXPLORE, ESCAPE, SURVIVE

Ongoing Each Wednesday.

Phone: 513-731-2665 Location: Blue Manatee Book Store. 3054

Occurring Daily (except Mon) Through Sunday, June 26, 2011.

Times: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Price: $6, $5 seniors, $4 children, free under age 4 Phone: 513-421-5707 Location: Krohn Conservatory. 1501 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.cincinnatiparks.com/krohn-conservatory

TORNADO ALLEY

Things are definitely getting “buggy” at the Hamilton County Park District! Visit the “invasion” at Glenwood Gardens where you will find over a dozen of these larger-thanlife bugs throughout the park. Be sure to try your best “jitter bug” at any of the four evening concerts during the event, see bugs on the big screen during a special movie night, learn all about a bugs life with exciting guest speakers and programs, “crawl” your way through the Big Bugs 5k Run/Walk and more! So join the invasion and get your David Rogers’ Big Bugs tickets today!

STORY TIME WITH MISS GAIL

THE BUTTERFLIES OF BRAZIL

The world of Cleopatra VII has been lost to the sea and sand for nearly 2,000 years. The exhibition features nearly 150 artifacts from Cleopatra’s time and will take you inside the present-day search for the elusive queen, which extends from the sands of Egypt to the depths of the Bay of Aboukir near Alexandria.

Occurring Daily (except Mon) Through Sunday, August 21, 2011.

Price: Admission is $7.00 for adults and $5.00 for children age’s two t Phone: (513) 521-7275 Location: Glenwood Gardens. 10397 Springfield Pike, Woodlawn, OH 45215 GreatParks.org

FunHouse), plus kids’ interactive play area, handcranked locomotives (seasonal), outdoor train ride (seasonal), American railroading museum, expo center, and incredible hobby shop. Closed Easter.

Occurring Daily Through Tuesday, May 31, 2011.

Price: Members Adult: $5.50, Child: $4.50, Senior: $5.50, Non-Members A Phone: 1.800.733.2077 Location: Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45203 http://www.cincymuseum.org/

SPRING CELEBRATION AT ENTERTRAINMENT JUNCTION Occurring Daily Through Sunday, May 22, 2011.

Phone: (513) 898-8000 Location: EnterTRAINment Junction. 7379 Squire Ct., West Chester, OH 45069 www.entertrainmentjunction.com

Scavenger hunts for families, including bunnies and chicks hidden in the world’s largest indoor model train display. Buy any admission and get half-off a second admission of equal or lesser value, plus receive a ticket for a return visit valid until May 22; celebrate mom with free admission for her to the train display on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 8. Come see the ONLY trainthemed family entertainment center on the planet; all-new Greatest Funhouse on Earth (A-Maze-N

Occurring Each Tuesday Beginning Tuesday, May 03, 2011 Through Tuesday, September 27, 2011.

Times: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Phone: 513.621.4400 Location: Fountain Square. Fountain Square Fifth and Vine streets, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.myfountainsquare.com

THE AMAZING AMERICAN CIRCUS POSTER Occurring Daily (except Mon) Through Sunday, July 10, 2011.

Times: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Price: Free Phone: 513-721-2787 Location: Cincinnati Art Museum. 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org

MOMMY AND ME TIME Ongoing Each Sunday.

Times: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Price: $10 Phone: (859) 652-7250 Location: Stars Lanes on the Levee. 1 Levee Way, Newport, KY 41071

Join us for a little Mommy and Me Time every Sunday from 11am-4pm at Star Lanes!

Receive unlimited bowling, unlimited soft drinks, pizza and popcorn. Also, we will be showing kids' movies and/or cartoons on all lane projection screens!

Grace Community Presbyterian Church.

6246 Turning Leaf Way, Maineville OH.

CINCINNATI FRINGE FESTIVAL Occurring Daily Beginning Tuesday, May 31, 2011 Through Saturday, June 11, 2011.

Phone: (513) 300-KNOW (5669) Location: Know Theatre of Cincinnati. 1120 Jackson Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 www.cincyfringe.com

Local, regional, national and international artists will invade downtown Cincinnati for 12 days of artistic celebration in both traditional and non-traditional spaces. These artists represent a variety of media including theatre, dance, music, poetry, visual art, film and beyond.

R E SO U RC E S

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classifieds

Featuring 80 circus posters created between 1878 and 1939, along with materials related to circus advertising by Cincinnati-based Strobridge Lithographing Company.

JR CHEF WEEKLY CLASSES Occurring Every Tue, Wed, Thu & Sat Through Tuesday, June 07, 2011.

Price: $30 Phone: 513-549-CHEF (2433) Location: Young Chefs Academy. 6649 Western Row Rd, Mason, OH 45040 www.youngchefsacademy.com/cincinnati

Designed to allow creativity to mesh with culinary techniques for exciting results! Ages 5-12. Reservation and Registration required. Times vary.

KID'S VIEW: RINGSIDE SEATS Occurring Daily (except Sun & Mon) Through Friday, June 10, 2011.

Times: 10:00 AM Phone: (513)703-5729 Location: Prarie Gallery. 4035 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223 www.prairiecincinnati.com

Culmination of three-month project in which seven area youth photographers documented boxing gym operated by Cincinnati Golden Gloves at mount Auburn Recreation Center.

Circus Classes • Flying Trapeze Entertainment

may 2011 monday

10

cinco de mayo

how to celebrate: make your own fresh squeezed orange juice!

11

15

tulip day

chicken dance day

20

21

G F U D E DA Y Y T

CH

18

19

international museum day

ON THIS DAY in 1884, the ringling brothers circus opened.

how to celebrate: visit a local museum! indy has an abundance of them! the children's museum, ima, eiteljorg...

23

26

25

BL

29

30

31 AR

RIE S D A

brownbag-it day

BE

RRY

C HEE

endangered species day 27

28

wig out day

jazz day

SE

O O N D AY

MA

C

th

BER

A KE D Y

penny day

morse code day

A

W

how to celebrate: paint your face like a clown. make elephant ears for dessert.

UE

24

how to celebrate: throw a neighborhood block party or simply invite a few neighbors over for dinner.

how to celebrate: have your own races at home on foot, bike, etc.

14

Y

E

C O B B L ER

how to celebrate: pay for a special treat using only nickels.

100 running of the indy 500

13

CA

neighbor day

Y RR

AY

22

137 kentucky derby

how to celebrate: how to celebrate: try a drink today that make derby hats and drink you've never had before. "mock" mint juleps.

12

T

17

D

how to celebrate: chocolate chip pancakes and chocolate chip cookies...yum.

beverage day

7

th

NU

16

ON THIS DAY in 1886, the first nickel in the u.s. was minted.

saturday 6

clean your eat what you room day want day

how to celebrate: create your own comic strip. read a comic book.

AY

O

9

D

CH

L AT E C H I P

play your national ukulele day teacher day ON THIS DAY in 1754, the first cartoon appeared in a u.s. newspaper

happy mother's day CO

N

5

JUICE D GE A

R

8

4

3

friday

ST

how to celebrate: read your favorite rhymes. play duck, duck , goose.

thursday

Y

mother goose day

2

wednesday

A

1

tuesday

OR

sunday

memorial day

Sources: familycrafts.about.com, brownielocks.com, holidayinsights.com & thenibble.com

like this calendar? let us know!

email editor@cincinnatiparent.com with your comments or suggestions!

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 47

48 CINCINNATI PARENT * MAY 2011