Dayton Parent Magazine | August 2014

DAYTON

PARENT daytonparentmagazine.com

AUGUST 2014 FREE

KIDS

perfectionist

preschool PREPPING FOR

MAKING A MOVE NEW HOME, NEW SCHOOL, NEW FRIENDS

the 5 “w’s” of

online schools

*

school BACK TO

ISSUE AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 1

YO U R G U I D E T O

PRESCHOOLS BLURB

YMCA

KIDS R KIDS

XXXXX

www.ymcaonline.org 937-610-9622

BOMBECK

www.twillysyogurt.com

www.krkspringboro.com (937) 748-1260

4C FOR CHILDREN

www.4cforchildren.org 937-220-9660

937-567-7818

YMCA (?)

www.twillysyogurt.com 937-567-7818

ST. HELEN

OVERFIELD

www.sthelenschl.org 937.256.1761

www.overfield.org 937-339-5111

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BOONSHOFT

www.boonshoftmuseum.org 937-275-7431

CREATIVE MINDS

937-818-7165

THINK TV

AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 3

contents

back to school

ISSUE

table of contents

features

pg.

11

PREPPING FOR PRESCHOOL

14

MAKING A MOVE

1

18

18

Perfectionist Kids

THE 5 “W’S” OF ONLINE SCHOOLS

pg.

PERFECTIONIST KIDS

17

The 5 “W’s” of Online Schools

21

TEN TIPS FOR TALKING TO TWEENS

31

// AUGUST 2014

AFTERSCHOOL DIRECTORY

pg.

11

Prepping for Preschool

columns 22

23

6

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

7

ONLINE BUZZ

8

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

32

AUGUST EVENTS

34

ONGOING EVENTS

35

WACKY CALENDAR

on the cover

TRUE CONFESSIONS OF A STAY-AT-HOME DAD

FOOTNOTES: THOUGHTS FROM THE MARGINS OF A MOM’S LIFE

24

ASK THE TEACHER

27

THE MODERN MILITARY PARENT

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in every issue

28

BACKPACK SAFETY

29

AUGUST HAPPENINGS

TRENTON EWING (4 Years Old)

photo by: Little Moments By Amber L

WDTN

AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 5

publisher’s note

Back to … you know what!

I

t’s August – and although flip flops and tank tops are still the season’s dress code, there’s no denying the sudden appearance of backpacks and three ring binders filling the store shelves. Back to school season is officially upon us, and whether you’re ready for the regular routine that school provides or wishing summer lasted a little bit longer, the first day is just around the corner.

If this school year is your little one’s very first, congratulations! Entering preschool is a major milestone for children and marks the beginning of a new era for them and you. Most likely you’re both feeling a combination of excitement and worry about this new adventure. Check out our article Prepping for Preschool for some helpful tips on getting your little learner off to a great start.

DAYTON

PARENT PUBLISHER

Mary Wynne Cox | Mary@daytonparentmagazine.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER & SALES DIRECTOR

Katy Mark | Katy@daytonparentmagazine.com

EDITOR

Susan Bryant | Susan@daytonparentmagazine.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Jennifer Baum | Jennifer@daytonparentmagazine.com Katie Clark | Katie@daytonparentmagazine.com Diane DeVillez | Diane@daytonparentmagazine.com

WEB DEVELOPER

Wendy Cox | Wendy@daytonparentmagazine.com

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

Jennifer Beahrs | Jbeahrs@daytonparentmagazine.com

Is your child the “new kid on the block” this year? If you’ve recently moved to Dayton, or just moved across town, adjusting to a different school and community can be difficult – especially for kids. Try reading Making a Move for expert advice on how to make this transition a successful one for your child.

A new school year means higher academic expectations, and some students feel the pressure to achieve good grades as soon as the first bell rings. If you have a child who considers anything less than an A+ unacceptable, our article Perfectionist Kids can help your student gain some perspective in seeing the “big picture” when it comes to their educational career.

Finally, “back to school” doesn’t necessarily require a trip on a school bus anymore. Opportunities for virtual learning exist for just about every type of learner and situation. Take a look at Online Schools for a primer on what these educational programs can offer your student.

This month, as pool parties and popsicles give way to car pools and pop quizzes, we hope you and your family enjoy these last days of summer vacation.

Here’s wishing you a great beginning to a new school year!

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Maria Tancredi | Maria@daytonparentmagazine.com

BUSINESS MANAGER

Roxanne Burns | Roxanne@daytonparentmagazine.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Wendy Schrepherman | S.Wendy@daytonparentmagazine. com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Trisha Shepherd, Michelle Shirk, Karen Ring, Megan Noel, Steffy McCourt, Jennifer Garcia, Sarah Bricker-Hunt, Pete Gilbert, Deb Krupowicz, Kelly Blewett, Molly Blake, Lisa Seibert of DaytonLocal.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

calendar@daytonparentmagazine.com

CONTACT US

daytonparent@daytonparentmagazine.com

COPYRIGHT

Dayton Parent Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2014 by Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary, or services herein.

For information on subscriptions, editorial guidelines, advertising rates and more, visit daytonparentmagazine.com

Katy Mark

Associate Publisher

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online buzz “

“

Terrible two’s feed into terrorist three’s.

-Joyce P.

“ “

3!!!! By far! 2 was a breeze.

-Heather J.

With my oldest we called them the troublesome threes.

-Jennifer F.

“

3 for sure, but each age comes with its own set of challenges and perks.

-Tracie W.

“

“

WE ASKED: WHICH AGE WAS TOUGHER TO PARENT: 2 OR 3? IS “THE TERRIBLE TWOS” A MYTH?

“

f

online buzz

«

@

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DAYTON LOCAL

AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 7

community spotlight community spotlight

Fairborn Sweet Corn Fest

Southview Baby Fair This free event will include: car safety seat checks, prizes, refreshments, Babies R Us Runway Show, Dad’s Derby, Childbirth Education Information, Tour of the Maternity Suites, Meet the Southview Obstetricians, Baby Retailers, Balloon Artist, Face Painting and so much more. Everyone will leave with a great bag filled with coupons and the latest issue of Dayton Parent Magazine! Date: Sunday, August 17 | Time: 2 - 4 pm | Where: Southview Medical Center, 1997 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd. Dayton, OH

5K for Kelli This charitable event is organized by Elesha Snyder and Mandi Moore in honor of their sister, Kelli James, who passed away on October 15, 2006 after losing her battle with breast cancer. All proceeds from the 5k for Kelli will go to Hospice of Dayton, The Good Samaritan Breast Health Center and The Noble Circle Project.

Because Kelli loved fairies, participants are encouraged to wear fairy wings, glitter, tutus, flower crowns, etc. to make the event more memorable and fun.

Don’t have any fairy gear? Don’t worry! Plenty will be available for purchase on race day with all proceeds going to charity. Date: August 23 | Time: 9 am | Where: Wegerzyn Gardens, 301 E. Siebenthaler Rd. Dayton

Kids’ Avenue Sale Kids’ Avenue @ Ginghamsburg is a bi-annual kids consignment sale sponsored

by Ginghamsburg’s Mom2Mom ministry. This is the perfect place to buy slightly used maternity, baby and kid items that are still in great-to-excellent shape while saving money. Local vendors specializing in baby and children’s items will be on hand as well. When: Saturday, August 2 | Time: 8 am – 1 pm | Where: The Avenue, 6759 S. County Rd. 25A Tipp City, OH

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At this family-oriented event, enjoy favorites such as steamed cooked sweet corn, pork chop sandwiches and fresh cut watermelon. Approximately 180 handmade arts and crafts booths and food vendors will be showcasing candles, wood items, jewelry, watercolor and oil paintings and much more. All day both days, activities for children will include a train ride, pony rides and the Big Bounce. Free entertainment will be provided both days in the festival area. Parking and admission are also free. When: Saturday, August 16 and Sunday, August 17 | Time: 11:00 am- 7:00 pm on Saturday and 6:00 pm on Sunday | Where: Community Park, 691 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd. Fairborn, OH

Crayons to Classrooms Dayton-area Kroger stores will be supporting local school classrooms with their seventh annual Crayons to Classrooms Back to School Supply Drive! Customers will find donation containers in thirty-two local stores and, with their generosity, will help provide crayons, pencils, notebooks and hundreds of other classroom items to children in our community’s neediest schools. These stores will also have pre-made school supply kits available for $5.00 as a monetary donation, and customers are encouraged to donate the supply kit as well. Dates: June 15 through July 27

AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 9

CREATIVE MINDS

DAYTON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

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PREPPING for

PRESCHOOL Getting ready for that big first day!

Megan Noel

As a former preschool teacher myself, the first day of school was always full of emotion – excitement, apprehension and maybe even a few tears. With the beginning of something new there’s always a level of uncertainty and anxiety, and the transition to a daily schedule, with nonparent adults, in an unfamiliar environment can be scary. While sending your child off to a new environment may never become easy, these tips can help ease the transition and make those first few days smoother for everyone.

Take a tour When selecting a preschool, you will often take a tour of the facility and talk with the director, and possibly even your child’s future teacher. If you know that your child has a particularly hard time with new situations, consider bringing a camera to your tour.

You can print these pictures later and put them in a photo album for your child to look at in the weeks leading up to the first day of school.

Develop a routine During your tour of the school, or through a phone call to the preschool, inquire about your child’s daily schedule. Once you determine the schedule and expectations, you can begin implementing some of those routines in your day so that your child finds them familiar when he starts school.

Christina Miller, founder/director

of A Great Start Preschool, recommends that parents “be sure to make time in your schedule for downtime and playtime, as well as unrushed quality time like story times before bed.“ She reminds parents to be patient with their child during this transition.

“Many adults are nervous to start a new job, just like your kids are nervous to start the new school year.”

Get something special Take your child to the store and pick out something special just for school such as a backpack, a character notebook or folder or a new shirt. This activity will be a reminder of the upcoming start of school, and help create excitement about the big day.

AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 11

Make new friends Some preschools and cooperatives offer summer play dates, ice cream socials or meet the teacher nights. Be sure to inquire about any before school activities and events that your child’s school offers.

Recognizing familiar faces on the first day of school can considerably ease your child’s anxiety about going into a new environment.

Read all about it Reading books about going off to preschool can help a child prepare for what they’re going to experience. Jenny Zender, teacher at First School says she recommends buying a preschool book and writing a special message inside the cover to your child as they begin their schooling adventures. She says this simple act will allow the child “to reflect back on and see that you were their number one fan from the start!” The following books are all great choices for the first time school goer:

• • • • • •

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn I’m Absolutely Too Small for School by Lauren Child Will You Come Back for Me? by Ann Tompert What to Expect at Preschool by Heidi Murkoff Countdown to the First Day of School

by AnnMarie Harris The Night Before Preschool by Natasha Wing

Parents often are just as anxious as their children about the first day of school. Try to pinpoint what is making you the most nervous, and address those concerns, too!

While the first week or two can be hard, it will eventually get easier for everyone. If you’re still anxious after a few weeks consider talking with the teacher about your concerns or volunteering in the classroom to ease your anxiety.

Preschool is just the start of many future new beginnings for your child – by embracing these changes yourself you provide a valuable lesson to your little one about how to manage all the exciting, scary and wonderful challenges that lay before them.

BOONSHOFT

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WE ASKED D AY T O N PA R E N T FA C E B O O K READERS

“Who had a harder time with the first day of preschool – you or your child?

Me. I stood outside and cried for half an hour.

– Misty M. Definitely me. I was a nervous wreck. He ran off and all I got was “bye mom”. – Joyce P. My son. He was excited to go, but after he realized mommy and daddy were leaving him there, he freaked out. It took quite a while for him to become ok with going to school… - Jennifer R. Me. My daughter had never been away from us prior to that (only with grandparents). She loved it!

– Lindsay P. Neither. She was excited to go, I was overjoyed with the prospect of a couple hours of free time. I embrace each & every new phase of life, as long as I have my coffee first. – Kylie B.

KIDZWATCH

PREMIER HEALTH

AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 13

for their new bedroom. “Even little things help children feel as though they are not victims, but participants,” he explains. Older children and teens may be equipped to provide even more input. “Consider taking teenagers along to some viewings when you are shopping for a new home,” he recommends.

M AKIN

E V G A MO

Adjusting to a new home, new school and new friends Sarah Bricker-Hunt

M

oving is difficult – it takes real strength to pack one’s life into boxes and endure the exhausting process of hauling it through town, to the next state or across the country. Even when the last dish is unpacked, the emotional journey has not yet ended.

Adjusting to a new location can be particularly difficult for kids. In the 2010 study “Residential Mobility, Well-Being and Mortality” published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, researchers found that children who move, especially those who move frequently, often perform worse in school and display more behavioral problems than peers who have not experienced relocation.

The good news is that parents can help shape the experience of moving into a positive one for the whole family. Dr. Gregory Ramey, Executive Director of the Dayton Children’s Hospital Center for Pediatric Mental Health Resources, recommends a two-prong approach for parents: Be a good role model, and keep children of all ages involved in the process.

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Model positivity

“Kids look to us, and they notice the extent to which we’re feeling overwhelmed and stressed out,” says Dr. Ramey. “They pick up anxiety from us, so it’s important to strive for being even-handed and moderate in how we deal with change.”

Dr. Ramey stresses that it is important to be realistic about the process. “Yes, there are going to be problems,” he says. “Yes, the local grocery store isn’t nearby, and the things we usually do have changed.

If we can just say ‘hey, we’ll figure it out,’ kids will pick up on those coping skills and use them, too.”

On the other hand, parents who appear overwhelmed, stressed out and negative about the move may create more problems. Dr. Ramey says it is crucial to “model the behavior you want to see in your children.”

Keeps kids involved

Even the youngest children can be a part of the moving process. Dr. Ramey recommends giving younger kids choices – for instance, choosing between two paint color choices

The key is to encourage an environment where children feel that the relocation is something the family is going through together, rather than something that is happening to them.

Watch for behavior changes

Sometimes, despite parents’ earnest efforts, a child struggles beyond a typical stress level when dealing with a move. Dr. Ramey says to keep an eye out for behavioral symptoms in younger children involving diet, sleep and toileting problems. For tweens and teens, atypical stress might manifest in schoolwork and peer relationship issues.

If you suspect your child is exhibiting troubling behavior related to a recent move, consult with a professional like a school counselor or child therapist. Families who live at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base can take advantage of counseling services through the Airman & Family Readiness Center.

Remember the past, focus on the future

While it is important to move forward and gradually adjust to life in your new area, be sure to also reflect on the good memories of your past home. Consider a project that celebrates your evolving family life, like a picture collage. Give kids the tools they need to stay in contact with the loved ones and friends they miss while embracing the new connections they will make in their current home.

AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 15

THE FIVE “W’S” OF ONLINE SCHOOL THE WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN AND WHY OF VIRTUAL LEARNING MICHELLE SHIRK

Brick and mortar education is so old school. Today’s online academic programs allow Ohio students to learn anywhere life takes them.

New to the concept of online school? We’ve outlined the basics to help you decide whether this alternative educational style might be a good fit for your family.

WHO

Ohio students of all ages can find an online school to suit their needs. For this article, we enlisted the help of the Ohio Virtual Academy (OHVA), Virtual Community School of Ohio (VCS) and TRECA Digital Academy (TDA), all of which serve students from kindergarten through 12th grade.

When it comes to the types of students who can benefit from online education, “There is no cookie cutter mold,” says Dr. Ruth Teeters, Assistant Superintendent of VCS. The school’s enrollment includes busy athletes and artists, individuals who wish to work at a relaxed or accelerated pace and students who choose to attend school online due to health or safety concerns.

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WHAT

All three schools listed here offer tuition-free full-time enrollment to students throughout Ohio. TDA’s fee-based iCredit program also allows brick and mortar students to supplement their coursework by taking individual classes.

Online schools use a variety of methods to deliver course content.

At VCS, lessons are presented to students through text-based materials, video clips, music and more, says Teeters. Students can also interact directly with their teachers by phone, text, email or online.

As in a traditional school setting, students receive a grade for each course.

WHERE

When it comes to the “where” of online school, flexibility is the name of the game. “Students enrolled in the Ohio Virtual Academy can complete their courses anywhere there is an Internet connection,” says Amy Borchers, OHVA Principal for grades 3-5.

Some online schools also offer opportunities for in-person interaction. OHVA schedules spelling bees, science fairs and special outings for students and their guests, reports

Borchers. TDA’s list of family events includes zoo field trips, book clubs and an ice cream social, says Lisa McCain Null Hart, Southwest Regional Coordinator for TDA. “TDA also encourages involvement in local community activities.”

WHEN

Online schools typically allow students to complete coursework as their schedules allow. OHVA’s content is available 24 hours a day, says Borchers. This means a gymnast who must practice five hours daily can plan school around her practice schedule, or a student whose family is on vacation can work from the road.

Of course, students attending school online must still put in their time. “Truancy laws are the same for TDA,” says McCain Null Hart.

TDA students must log in and complete coursework 180 days per year. VCS requires daily participation and suggests its students work about 6 hours per day, or 30 hours per week, says Teeters.

WHY

McCain Null Hart cites mobility and flexibility as benefits of online school, calling it “education that

revolves around your life instead of the other way around.”

Online education also has the benefit of allowing students to move at their own speed, as long as they are meeting progress and attendance requirements, says Borchers. “Students are not pushed to move ahead to another lesson if they aren’t ready and are also able to move ahead when ready, without having to wait for a classroom of students to complete the assigned work.”

In an era where an ever-increasing number of daily tasks can be performed online, it seems likely that this new approach to education will continue to grow in popularity. As is the case for students attending a traditional school, though, parents of students who complete their coursework online continue to play a key role in their kids’ success.

“In an online school setting, the student is most successful when the parent is highly involved in their child’s education,” says Teeters. “It really is a partnership between the student, the parent and the school.”

Sources: www.tdaonline.org www.k12.com/ohva www.treca.org

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PerfectionisT

Kids When only an

will do

Steffy McCourt

It seems like a problem that really isn’t one – a child who is obsessed with achieving top grades in school. The irony is that this preoccupation often gets in the way of real learning.

Compounding the situation, with technology keeping the classroom door open 24 hours a day, a parent can see a child’s grades on homework, quizzes and tests as soon as they are posted. The child’s grades then become the primary topic of parent-child conversations about school.

“It’s hard for parents to let their kids make mistakes or let them fail, but they need to do just that,” says Sarah Schleehauf, Gifted Intervention Specialist of Valley View Local Schools. “Kids need to be able to learn from their mistakes. Instead of parents focusing on the fact (that) their child got a 100% on an assignment or test, they should instead congratulate them for mastering the material, especially if it did not come easily.”

Cobin Trout, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor practicing at Compass Point Counseling Services, says “(A) trap that parents of anxious children fall into is rescuing or attempting to ‘fix’ the outcome for their child. For example, by 18 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

constantly looking over the child’s shoulder while they are doing schoolwork, jumping in to correct mistakes and valuing ‘perfect’ grades over other strengths and capacities, the adult can intensify the child’s perfectionistic tendencies.”

For kids (and parents) focused solely on achievement, the stakes become higher as children progress into high school, where grades are seen as the measuring stick that colleges and universities use to decide whether or not to accept a student.

A recent article by journalist David A. Graham which appeared in The Atlantic looked at what it takes to get into Harvard these days. Hint: It’s more than grades. “’We could fill our class twice over with valedictorians,’ Harvard President Drew Gilpin Faust told an audience at the Aspen Ideas Festival, sponsored by the Aspen Institute and The Atlantic…That means admissions officers rely on intangibles like interesting essays or particularly unusual recommendations to decide who comprises the 5.9 percent of applicants who get in.

Faust’s top tip for raising a Harvard man or woman: ‘Make your children interesting!’”

And to make a child “interesting” a child must be interested in learning, not necessarily in achieving the highest grade possible.

“For some students, not receiving a high grade on any given assignment or test equates to failure, not only immediately, but long term as well. Like not getting into a good college,” says Schleehauf. “I know this may sound intense, but many students put this type of pressure on themselves, especially students who are identified as gifted.”

Trout gives this final advice: “From the outside looking in these traits and behaviors are not all bad. Isn’t it good to practice until you get it right?

Doesn’t persistence lead to success? The difference for an anxious child is that they can’t tell when ‘enough is enough.’ Parents can help this child by reinforcing the importance of balance.”

In time, by changing the focus from performance to effort and emphasizing learning over letter grades, parents can help their report card-conscious kids develop a healthy attitude not only about school, but the many other endeavors they will pursue in life.

AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 19

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Ten Tips for Talking to Tweens Laying the groundwork for positive communication Jennifer Garcia

As any parent of a tween knows, this stage of development comes with its own unique set of challenges.

Tweens operate in that gray area between child and full blown teenager - straddling both worlds simultaneously.

Some days their interests and actions are definitely childlike; other days their adolescent self is fully revealed. All of this can make relating to them more than a little difficult. The time to establish positive communication skills with your tween is now, in order to set the stage for future conversations when the consequences of their actions become even more important.

What can parents do to start this process in the right direction?

1. Be honest.

“Telling children the truth establishes you as trustworthy and dependable,” says Meredith Threatt, M.S.Ed., Professional Counselor and Clinical Resident with Atrium Counseling Services in Dayton. Children know when parents say one thing and do another, so modeling honest communication is critical. “When your words and deeds are inconsistent, you lose credibility.”

2. Educate yourself.

Children glean their information from friends, television, magazines and the internet – and it’s hardly all accurate or unbiased. Don’t wait for your kids to come to you with questions, because they might not. Provide your tween with age-appropriate books on puberty, drugs and sex and read them yourself so you understand the issues that affect them.

shows genuine interest in their individuality and identity, preparing them to enter their teen years with confidence,” says Thompson.

6. Listen, listen, listen.

Conflicts arise when one or both sides feel they aren’t heard. Give your child the chance to tell their side of the story and clearly and calmly explain your point of view.

Try a technique called “reflective listening” in which you paraphrase what your child says back to them to demonstrate that you have really heard what they’ve said.

7. Discuss rules openly.

You may not change a rule your child feels is unfair, but you should still allow their opinion to be voiced.

“It isn’t necessary to incorporate all the feedback you receive, but [hearing them out] will help your tween feel acknowledged,” says Thompson.

8. Let go – just a little.

Children need to be equipped to deal with the world outside your

home, and this can only happen when they are allowed to make some of their own decisions and see the consequences. Threatt uses the example of social media. Parents have the right and responsibility to monitor their children’s activities online, however, tweens should have some freedom in this area and be given a chance to prove themselves trustworthy.

9. Don’t let them off the hook.

Establishing good communication skills with a tween can be tough.

“They’ll roll their eyes, cross their arms and use every non-verbal message that says ‘I don’t want to hear it’,” says Thompson. Keep at it. Families talk to each other.

10. Get help if necessary.

If communicating with your tween is going nowhere and you feel your relationship slipping, don’t hesitate to enlist some professional help. A family therapist can help identify conflicts, develop strategies for resolving problems and teach families how to improve their co m m u n i c at i o n skills.

3. Stand united.

When parents have different rules or expectations, kids may seek a “divide and conquer” approach. “It’s important for parents to agree on the information to be shared,” says Josh Thompson, M.S. Ed., Professional Counselor and Clinical Resident with Atrium Counseling Services.

Talk with your partner about how you will agree to handle situations now and in the future.

4. Pick a neutral location for difficult conversations.

“Difficult topics can be embarrassing for parents and children,” says Thompson. “A neutral or public setting can feel less intimate, therefore alleviating some of the intensity of the conversation.”

5. Think about the praise you give.

Use specific language to focus on what your child does well. “This AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 21

confessions of a stay-at-home dad

Letting Kids Help

True confessions of a stay-at-home dad

By Pete Gilbert

K

ids make accomplishing ANY small task much harder. I used to fight my way through, spending an hour attempting to keep my kids occupied while I tried to complete a chore that would normally take me fifteen minutes. They always wanted to help, but I would send them back to their activity – them disappointed and me frustrated.

One day it hit me. Neither my kids nor I were happy with this arrangement.

They wanted to help and I was spending more of my time getting them to do something else than I did on the actual task at hand. So now, with most jobs around the house, when my kids ask to do something with me, I let them.

When I’m making breakfast and my son wants to pitch in, I let him pick up an egg, crush it in his hand and watch as the egg (and shell) narrowly miss the bowl and end up on the counter. But he is proud of the job he did, because he helped.

When my daughter wants do the laundry, I let her fill the washer, measure the detergent and start the machine. She even asks to fold the clothes when she’s done. (Which makes me feel a little like Tom Sawyer getting his friends to white wash the fence for him.)

This summer with all the extra yard work, it was especially beneficial to “let them help.” We had a pine tree that covered our yard with pine cones. I hired my daughter to pick them up and paid her a nickel each. She picked up 150 pine cones for me that day - $7.50 well spent. Also, my son has a Power Wheels Gator truck that I have him drive around and follow me collecting sticks and hauling them away.

My kids are finally happy and I’m happy, because I let them help. In fact, I even let them help me tyyppe thissss columlksxrwedsdm;l;klm. ;)

Stop by Facebook and “Like” my “True Confessions of a Stay at Home Dad” page for daily updates and links to all my blogs and columns.

FAR HILLS

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footnotes

Footnotes: Thoughts from the margins of a mom’s life The first back-to-school

By Kelly Blewett

A

t just over four, my son doesn’t yet know that August is synonymous with “back-to-school.” He’s never been to school, aside from preschool, which he regards as a long playdate. This summer he went to his first summer camp a few mornings a week. I tell him that when summer camp is over, it will be time to return to preschool. He’s moving to the pre-K room, where I hear there might be some homework. So I suppose this year counts as a back-to-school year. His very first.

I’m not sure what I will do to commemorate the occasion. Take him to buy new pencils? Wash his backpack embroidered with his name? Or maybe let the moment slip by without fanfare, and let the (eventually) changing weather and routine speak for itself. August is the last sigh of summer before fall. John Updike wrote that in August, “The sprinkler twirls/ the summer wanes./ The pavement wears/ Popsicle stains.”

Though the summer is definitely waning, I’m not sure I want my child to be feeling back-to-school too much. Not just yet. Instead, I want him to pick out one more painting project for us to complete on the porch after dinner.

CAIRNS TOYS

I want him to put on his little apron and whisk up one more batch of popsicles. I want to repeat the Fourth of July fireworks and keep going to the pool.

When I was a kid, I used to think that my parents relished the hard stuff of parenting: like making me eat my green beans and keep my closet picked up. But now, as I mom, I know better. I remember my own mother picking me up on the last day of school, singing “V-A-C-A-T-I-O-N, we’re having so much fun!” I realize now that she loved summertime as much as I did. (And she doesn’t really like green beans either.)

So it’s our first back-to-school, but certainly not our last. And I think the best thing to do might be to swallow my own reservations and wash that backpack. My son won’t know that I’ll secretly be missing summertime and hoping to postpone the return to my own fall routines. He will be fooled. And in nine short months we can start my favorite season all over again.

AWESOME YOGURT

AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 23

ask the teacher

Ask the Teacher

Smooth back to school transitions, speech self-consciousness and vacation absences

By Deb Krupowicz

Q

The first few weeks of school seem to wreak havoc on my family. What can I do to make it go more smoothly?

A

Getting back into a routine after many carefree weeks is a challenge.

Fortunately, there are several things that you can do to make the process easier on your children and on you, too.

Re-establishing school-day bedtimes before school starts is key.

Having a late night or two is not a big deal, and it is important to en-

joy every bit of summer! But keep in mind that it is physically tough to get through a school day without a good night’s rest, and without that nothing else will work. Making sure that your child is well rested and in the routine of a reasonable bedtime and wake up time a few days ahead of school will help with all aspects of the start-up.

Simplify schedules as much as possible for those first few weeks.

Cancel the non-essentials like extra-curricular lessons and optional activities. Keep Sunday evenings free to get organized for the upcoming week. Using that time to review schedules, plan lunches and clothes, and identify best home-

work times will help everyone in the family start the week feeling in control.

Q

We are in the process of planning a family vacation in October and are thinking of taking our kids out of school for a few days. A neighbor shared that she experienced a great deal of flack from her child’s teacher for doing that. Is it really that big of a deal to miss a few days?

A

There are several things to consider as you make your plans. First, recognize that missing school creates challenges for all involved.

Take into account your children’s own ability to handle some stress, as they will be doing school double-time on either end of the trip depending upon your school’s policy. Can you help compensate for lost instructional time that your children’s teachers will not be able to reproduce?

Timing is an important factor.

Does your trip fall at the beginning, middle or end of a unit? How will missing a few days impact your children’s understanding of the curriculum?

Acknowledge the extra effort required of the teacher when a student is absent; it takes 20-30 minutes to prepare a “make-up” plan for each missed day. The younger the child, the more time required as more instruction of tasks is necessary. Realize that the list of assignments, even carefully completed, only accounts for a portion of what students who are in class learn from teacher explanations, class discussions and activities.

After considering those things, the importance of this vacation may outweigh the challenges it presents. If so, consider contacting the teacher well ahead of time. A considerate notification goes a long way in avoiding a negative reaction caused by a surprise.

Consult the school office for the school’s policies about vacation absences. Typically, there are forms to be filled out ahead of time that allow work to be completed without penalty.

24 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

ask the teacher

Q

One of the things that my son dreads most about the beginning of school is going back to speech.

He likes the speech therapist, but he is very self-conscious about his speech struggles and his classmates’ teasing. Should I consider taking him out of speech?

A

Whether or not your son should be pulled from speech is a decision that must be weighed with the speech therapist and based upon the severity of his impediment. Early and effective intervention can help children overcome speech

ABS

struggles and eliminate the concern for a lifetime. The ultimate goal likely outweighs the current challenges your son is experiencing.

If leaving class to attend speech is causing your son some stress, talk with the teacher and the speech therapist about the timing of his sessions. Perhaps a better time for him to leave class can be identified. Some schools offer therapy before or after school. Or, it may be possible to arrange private sessions outside of the school day through your pediatrician.

{

Perhaps the actual speech difficulty is what is eliciting the teasing. Empower your son to stand tall in the face of these taunts by helping him practice appropriate comebacks. Consider reactions like “Speech is tough for me, but I am working on it” or “I’ve accepted the challenge of improving” or “I choose to focus on people’s strengths.” Encourage him to keep it positive and not defensive. Explain to him that teasing almost always starts with a lack of understanding of what someone else is dealing with so that he can use the experience as a tool in building his own character.

}

Ask the Teacher is written by Deb Krupowicz, a mother of four and current teacher. Deb holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and has over twenty years of experience teaching preschool, elementary and middle school students. Please send your questions to her at asktheteacher@daytonparentmagazine.com.

PIANO PREP

AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 25

**

Save the Date for

Dayton Parent Magazine’s 1st

Anniversary Kid’s Fest!

Join us at Five Seasons in Kettering, Sat. Sept. 27th from 1 pm-4 pm. Inflatables, balloon artists, face painting, kid’s classes, tons of booths and more. Come for the fun!

26 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

the modern military parent

The Modern Military Parent Back to school tips for military kids

By Molly Blake

M

y daughter is slated this fall to attend her fourth school in five years – and she’s not exactly thrilled about yet another move and another new school.

Military kids move, on average, six to nine times during their elementary school careers – that’s three times more than their civilian peers.

Besides the social aspect of always being the new kid in class, there are also academic challenges when kids move from one school district to another. Educational and achievement standards vary widely from state to state and available courses, for example higher-level math or science classes, might be offered in one school and not in another.

Many states, including Ohio, have signed the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children. This agreement, according to the Department of Defense, includes “coordinating graduation requirements, transfer of records and course placement and other administrative policies for the children of military families.” Each state must voluntarily join and then adopt the compact through the legislative process.

I’ve managed to smooth over the emotional disruption of this move for my daughter with the promise of pierced ears a year ahead of sched-

ule. But in addition to this shameless payoff, I’ve been spending time talking to her about why we are moving, again, and recalling the strategies we’ve employed over the years to make this transition easier.

As it gets closer to the first day of school, here are a few of the lessons we’ve learned thanks to our moves from Arizona to Kansas to Virginia and several states in between.

• Check in with your School Liaison Officer (SLO) before school starts.

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base’s SLO is Andrea Attaway-Young and she can be reached at andrea.attaway-young@wpafb.af.mil. AttawayYoung can help you navigate district policies and connect you with available resources and special services.

A full list of SLO’s is available online at www.military12partners.dodea. edu/.

• Head over to the new school to check it out. What’s the playground like? What are the available afterschool activities? Find out when try outs or sign ups are for sports and other opportunities.

• If you or your spouse are scheduled to deploy or return home after a separation, set up a meeting with teachers and school administration.

Many civilians don’t understand how

emotionally straining it is to ready for a deployment but also a homecoming. Prepare teachers so they can keep an eye out for any signs that your child may be experiencing distress.

• Consider asking a teacher to help organize a pre-first day of school gathering at an area park. Older kids can gather at a local pool or skate park.

• On the first day of school, take pictures with a fun sign with your child’s height, a fun fact and the date. This is a simple way to highlight the day and will serve as a reminder of “first days” as you rack up military moves to new towns and new schools.

• Take advantage of technology to

stay in touch with friends. Block out an hour of Skype or FaceTime on Sunday afternoons so your milkid can connect with former school pals.

With each move and new school, and all the stress and worry, also comes different friends and interesting adventures. In the end, focus on the positive. It’s easy to get hung up on the friends left behind or the hassles of learning different routines, but try to emphasize the excitement of making new friends, exploring new communities and the opportunities that are offered at the new school.

Molly Blake is a freelance writer. Her husband recently retired after serving 20 years in the United States Marine Corps. She attended the University of Dayton and writes about issues affecting military families and other parenting issues. Follow her on twitter @mblakewrites.

AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 27

backpack safety

Backpack Safety

How to get packed for a great school year

By Dayton Children’s Hospital

T

muscles and joints,” says Lehner.

“This can lead to severe back, neck and shoulder pain, as well as posture problems.”

Every fall children of all ages make the trek to the bus stop on the first day of school, toting a backpack full of school essentials, eager to unload it upon arriving at their new desk or locker. But what happens when they unpack their new supplies, only to find that their load has been replaced by a much heavier one for the remainder of the year?

Before you begin the search for the ideal backpack, there are a few features to consider when choosing the right backpack for your student.

Start by selecting a lightweight backpack that does not add much weight to the load. Wide, padded shoulder straps will reduce the risk of straps digging into the shoulders, which can cause pain or restrict circulation. Ensure that the backpack has two straps that are adjustable in order to position the pack close to the body and two inches above the waist. Those with only one shoulder strap that runs across the body cannot distribute weight evenly.

he back to school season is overflowing with the fresh and new. New routines, new activities, new teachers, new classes.

With this comes the demand for new school supplies with a backpack often being at the top of that list.

Lugging around the weight of a backpack can be detrimental to a child’s growth. The added pressure on continuously developing bones, tissue and muscle can cause stress to the body that can result in longterm injury. “Backpacks are designed to distribute the weight of the load among some of the body’s strongest muscles,” says James T. Lehner, MD, pediatric orthopedic specialist at Dayton Children’s Hospital. Backpacks become problematic for children when they are not worn correctly or when the load is too heavy for the child carrying it.

“Backpacks that are too heavy or worn incorrectly can cause injured

28 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

A padded back can protect your child from sharp edges on objects inside the backpack. A waist strap further contributes to comfort by distributing the weight of the pack more evenly. If you are concerned about your child’s need to carry a large amount of weight on a regular basis, consider a rolling backpack.

Realize however, that rolling backpacks must still be carried up stairs and may not roll in the snow.

Another alternative to carrying a heavy backpack would be to consid-

er getting your child a second set of textbooks to keep at home.

lockers throughout the day. Do not carry all books for the entire day.

Once you’ve found a backpack that you and your child can both agree on, here are some guidelines to be sure it always has your pupil’s back.

4. Bend using both knees. Whether bending over to pick up the backpack or while wearing it, bend using both knees. Do not bend over at the waist.

Six tips to help prevent backpack injury: 1. Pack light. As a rule of thumb, children should only be carrying 10 to 15 percent of their body weight.

2. Organize the backpack to use all compartments. Arrange the contents of the backpack so that the heavier items are packed closest to the center of the back.

3. Stop often at school lockers. If possible, it is best to make several stops at

5. Learn back-strengthening exercises.

Building up the muscles used to carry the weight of a backpack can help reduce risk of overuse or injury.

6. Encourage your child to tell you about any pain or discomfort. Do not ignore back pain in a young child or teenager, as it can lead to serious injuries later in life. Consult your pediatrician if your child has ongoing back pain.

august happenings

August Happenings

Plenty of summer fun throughout the month!

By Lisa Seibert, Community Executive, DaytonLocal.com

A

lthough August signals the end of summer as children return to school, there is still no shortage of things to do. If by chance you’ve never been to a drive in movie theatre, you should cross that off your bucket list this summer!

There are still three in the area: Dixie Drive In (Dayton), Melody 49 (Clayton) and the Skyborn (Fairborn).

Drive in movie times, as well as regular theatre information, can be found on DaytonLocal.com.

Centerville Summer Concert Series

Stubbs Park | 255 W. Spring Valley Road | Centerville, OH 45458 (937) 428-4782 | Sundays in August, 7 pm Bring your lawn chairs or blanket.

Aug. 3 - Phil Dirt & The Dozers Aug. 10 - Dulahan with a special appearance by Dwyer School of Irish Dance Aug. 17 - Centerville Community Band plays every type

Champaign County Fair

spotted inside the amazing Butterfly House. While you’re at this park, you should also climb the Tree Tower and hit the trails!

17th Annual Egyptian Festival

St. Mina and St. Abanoub Coptic Orthodox Church | 1531 King Richard Parkway | Miamisburg, OH 45343 (937) 866-0622 | Friday August 1 Sunday August 3 Entertainment, Egyptian food, Egyptian bazaar, raffle prizes, carnival rides and more!

Miamisburg Touch-A-Truck Riverfront Park | 3 N. Miami Avenue Miamisburg, OH 45342 | (937) 8664532 | Tuesday August 5, 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm | FREE Admission

Climb on it, run around on it, sit in it, honk its horn – just don’t drive it away! Children of all ages will love our Touch a Truck event where they can explore all sorts of amazing trucks and vehicles by climbing/ sitting on them and honking their horns.

Twinderella at Town Hall Theatre

27 N. Main Street | Centerville, OH 45459 | (937) 433-8957 | Friday August 8 at 7 pm | Saturday & Sunday August 9 & 10 at 3 pm Everybody knows the story of Cinderella. But not much is known about Bob, her long-lost twin brother! He lived in the same kingdom and ended up with a different wicked stepfamily. But destiny has a plan for both these siblings...especially when they get a little help from their fairy godmother!

The Great Darke County Fair

Darke County Fairgrounds | 800 Sweitzer Street | Greenville, OH 45331 | (937) 548-5044 | Friday August 15 through Sunday August 23

The Lebanese Festival

St Ignatius of Antioch Maronite Catholic Church | 5915 Springboro Pike | Dayton, OH 45449 | (937) 428-0372 | Friday August 22 through Sunday August 24 The 21st Greater Dayton Lebanese Festival, sponsored by St Ignatius of Antioch Maronite Catholic Church, will be held on the church grounds.

The festival will feature Middle Eastern dancing and entertainment, cultural displays, crafts booths, amusement rides and games for all ages.

Authentic Lebanese foods will be available for sale including kibbee, kafta, falafel, tabouli salad, stuffed grape leaves, hummus dip, fresh Lebanese pastries and much more.

For more family friendly events, select “Family Friendly Calendar” from the “Play” menu on DaytonLocal.com.

The Great Darke County Fair dates back to 1853. Carnival rides, several barns filled with livestock, food, arts and crafts, tractor pulls, concerts and so much more!

384 Park Avenue | Urbana, OH 43078 | (937) 653-2640 | Friday August 1 through 8, 2014 Go celebrate the Champaign County Fair in Urbana, Ohio! Live entertainment, tractor pulls, demolition derby, rides, food and more!

The Butterfly House

Cox Arboretum | 6733 Springboro Pike | Dayton, OH 45449 | (937) 275-5053 | FREE Admission | August 1 through 29, 8 am – 8 pm Several species of butterflies can be AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 29

Birthday Parties - Field Trips - Church Youth Groups -Sports/Cheer Team Season Event - Boy/Girl Scouts Party – FUNdraisers- Mom Groups, Play

2109 Lyons Road Miamisburg, Ohio 45342 937-640-3345

Summer “Frog” Camps! Clean, Safe & Climate Controlled FUN!

Parents rate us #1 for Birthday Parties!

Go to LeapFrogsPlay.com for more coupons!

$25.00 OFF! ALL 2014 Private Events

Birthday Parties, Field Trips, Church & Youth Groups, Sports Team Season Event, Boy/Girl Scouts Party Discounts cannot be combined. Not valid with other discounts or prior purchases. Expires 8/31/2014.

& 0% chance of Rain Inside Our Pad!

$3.00 OFF Parents Night Out! Discounts cannot be combined Expires 8/31/2014.

$2.00 OFF

Any Open Play Session!

Discounts cannot be combined Expires 8/31/2014.

Groups & More! Birthday Parties - Field Trips - Church Youth

Birthday Parties - Field Trips - Church Youth Groups -Sports/Cheer

It’s always 73 degrees

Team Season Event - Boy/Girl Scouts Party – FUNdraisers- Mom Groups, Play Groups & More! Birthday Parties - Field Trips - Church Youth Groups 30 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

afterschool directory

AFTERSCHOOL

DIRECTORY Beaver-Vu Bowling

Dance Loft

1238 N. Fairfield Rd., Beavercreek, OH 45432 | 937-426-6771 | susand@ daytonbowling.com

1791 W. 2nd. St., Xenia, OH 45385 | 937-374-1404 | danceloftplus@att. net | www.danceloftplus.com

At Beaver-Vu Bowl and Pla-Mor Lanes, once a week bowling program with partner schools. Transportation on our Big Red Bus. Program Staff supervises bowling, snack, and sign-out. Schedule and participating schools found on website. Annual registration fee $20; weekly program fee $10.

Celebrating 25 years of dance in Xenia, Ohio! The fall dance season offers a variety of styles and begins September 2nd. Flexible starting dates can be arranged. All tuition packages include your recital costume and May Tuition. Registration Fee is only $10. Check out our website for more information at www.danceloftplus.com.

Hand 2 Hand Gymnastics 270 Hiawatha Trail, Springboro, OH 45066 | 937-743-1466 | office@ hand2handgym.com | www.hand2handgym.com

Tumbling, trampoline, cheer and preschool gymnastics classes for ages 2 to 22. Register now for fall classes.

Our instructors are all background checked, safety certified and USA Gymnastics certified. We offer low class sizes, unlimited makeups and a FREE trial class for new students.

Paintbrush Pottery

255 W. Central Ave., Springboro, OH 45066 | paintbrushpottery@woh. rr.com | www.paintbrushpottery.com Drop the kids off after school to paint pottery for 1 1/2 hrs. every Wednesday. A light snack will be included.

Call 937-748-8707 for details!

Piano Prep School

Lessons by Krista

1950 Litchfield Ave, Dayton, OH 45406 | 937-204-4393 | krista@ lessonsbykrista.com | www.lessonsbykrista.com Offering piano lessons to students of all ages, from age 7 through adult.

With almost 10 years experience, I come highly recommended!

AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 31

calendar august calendar

// AUGUST 2014

FRIDAY | 01

First Friday Downtown Dayton

Price: free | Phone: (937) 224-1518 | Location: Downtown Dayton | www.downtowndayton. org

Explore. create. stay out late. The beginning of every month starts with a bang in downtown Dayton. First Friday is a free art hop event held from 5 to 10 p.m. in several locations throughout downtown.

Free Fridays at the Cincinnati Museum Center

Price: Free; Parking is $4 after 4:30 p.m. and $6 before 4:30 p.m | Phone: (513) 287-7000 | Location: Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati | www.cincymuseum.org/events/free-fridays

Visit Duke Energy Children’s Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science and Cincinnati History Museum free of charge from 4 to 8 p.m. on August 1, 2014.

SATURDAY | 02

13th Annual Vintage Truck - Young’s Truck Show

Phone: (937) 767-1433 | Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy. 6880 Springfield Xenia Rd, Springfield | www.youngsdairy.com/truck-show

Join us for our Annual Vintage Truck Young’s Truck Show. See over 100 antique trucks from all over the country.

Blazin’ Hot 5K Run/Walk

Price: $20 | Phone: (937) 224-8907 | Location: Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark. 1301 E. Siebenthaler Avenue, Dayton | www.metroparks.org/ GetOutside/SearchByInterest.aspx

This outdoor community recreation opportunity is sponsored by Building Bridges, Inc. a non-profit organization helping at-risk, court-involved youth.

British Car Day

Price: free | Phone: (937) 293-2819 | Location: Eastwood MetroPark: Eastwood Park. 1385 Harshman Rd., Dayton | www.metroparks.org/ GetOutside/SearchByInterest.aspx

Annual all British car show, displaying over 300 cars and motorcycles. Variety of classes. Show is open to the general public.

SUNDAY | 03 Dayton Dragons vs. South Bend

Price: varies | Phone: 937-228-2287 | Location: Fifth Third Field. 220 North Patterson Blvd., Dayton | www.milb.com/schedule/index. jsp?sid=t459&m=8&y=2014

Special Promotion: Kroger Baseball Buddies Kids (ages 7-13) will get to hang out in the dugout during pre-game to meet the Dragons, be introduced over the PA, run out on the field with the team and receive a replica jersey and other gifts. To enter, look for the display at your local Kroger store.

Deeds Carillon Concerts

Price: free | Phone: (937) 293-2841 | Location: Carillon Historical Park. 1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton | www.daytonhistory.org/event/event-registration/?regevent_ action=register&event_id=361

Join us for free, family-friendly concerts located at Deeds Carillon throughout 2014. Award-winning musician and past President of the Guild of Carillonneurs in North America, Dr. Larry Weinstein, will perform each original concert.

Family Movie Night at The Greene

Price: free | Phone: (937) 490-4990 | Location: The Greene Town Square. 4489 Glengarry Drive, Beavercreek | www.thegreene.com/ portals/2/pdf/the-greene-revised-calendar. pdf

The Tempest

Price: free | Phone: (937) 397-0023 | Location: Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark. 1301 E. Siebenthaler Avenue, Dayton | www.metroparks. org/GetOutside/SearchByInterest.aspx

A free public performance of William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” sponsored by Bespoke Theatre Company.

Bring your own lawn chairs or blanket.

Complimentary refreshments provided.

TUESDAY | 05

Miamisburg Touch-a-Truck

Price: free | Phone: (937) 866-4532 | Location: Riverfront Park. 3 N. Miami Avenue, Miamisburg | www.daytonlocal.com/events/miamisburg-touch-a-truck.asp

Climb on it, run around on it, sit in it, honk its horn-just don’t drive it away!

32 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

Children of all ages will love our Touch a Truck event where they can explore all sorts of amazing trucks and vehicles by climbing/sitting on them and honking their horns. They will also have the opportunity to meet the drivers and vote on their favorite vehicle.

WEDNESDAY | 06

Wednesday Playground Club

Price: $30 for full 5 weeks or $8/ individual weeks for residents, $40 for full 5 weeks or $10/ individual weeks for non-res | Phone: (937) 848-3535 | Location: Magee Park. 1820 Little Sugar Creek Rd., Dayton | www.bellbrooksugarcreekparks.org

her long-lost twin brother! He lived in the same kingdom and ended up with a different wicked stepfamily. But destiny has a plan for both these siblings...especially when they get a little help from their fairy godmother!.

SATURDAY | 09 Train Rides @ Carillon Park Railroad

Price: fees apply; call for details | Phone: (937) 293-2841 | Location: Carillon Park Railroad.

1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton | www.daytonhistory.org/event/event-registration/?regevent_ action=register&event_id=381

Make sure your child is part of the fun at Magee Park this summer! Each time your club meets we will explore a new theme with a variety of unique and educational activities, cooperative field games, and crafts. Ages: 6-12 years.

Train rides are available at Carillon Park from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm unless otherwise noted with weather permitting.

THURSDAY | 07

Price: free | Phone: (513) 897-8855 | Location: City of Waynesville | www.secondsaturdaystreetfaire.com

Backpacking Babies: Flutter by Butterfly

Price: free | Phone: (937) 275-7275 | Location: Sugarcreek MetroPark: Trailhead Parking Lot. 4178 Conference Rd., Bellbrook | www.metroparks.org/GetOutside/SearchByInterest. aspx

A warm summer day is a great time to look for butterflies! We’ll try to catch a few to give your baby an up-close look.

A baby backpack or carrier is required for this program as trails are not stroller friendly.

FRIDAY | 08

Germanfest Picnic

Price: Admission is free, and on-site parking is $2 | Location: Carillon Historical Park. 1000 Carillon Blvd, Dayton | www.daytongermanclub.org/?q=node/295

“Get your Gemuetlichkeit on” at the 31st Annual Germanfest Picnic, sponsored by the Dayton Liederkranz Turner. The weekend kicks off with a 5K run and “Polka Mass,” followed by raffles, games, and authentic German cuisine.

Twinderella

Phone: 937-433-8957 | Location: Town Hall Theatre. 27 N. Main Street, Centerville | www. washingtontwp.org/recreation/theatre/productions/all-children-s-theatre/twinderella

Everybody knows the story of Cinderella. But not much is known about Bob,

Waynesville Second Saturday Street Faire

Waynesville’s Second Saturday Street Faire held June through September on the second Saturday of each month.

Find Local Aritisans, Crafters & Authors, Entertainment, Kids Activities, Cruise-In Car Show and more!.

Three Blind Mice Dollhouse Miniature Show

Price: Single day admission is $5.00 for adults & $2.00 for children (ages 5-15) | Phone: 937278-4776 | Location: Hara Arena Conference and Exhibition Center. 1001 Shiloh Springs Rd., Dayton | www.daytonlocal.com/thingsto-do/three-blind-mice-dollhouse-miniatureshow.asp

Visitors to this annual show will find that miniatures aren’t just for dollhouses.

Dealers and artisans from across the country will be selling everything imaginable in the world of miniatures - from tiny rolls of toilet paper to exquisite handmade furniture. There will be supplies for the do-it-yourselfer as well as a beautiful collectors’ items.

SUNDAY | 10

Art on the Commons

Price: free | Phone: (937) 296-3300 | Location: Lincoln Park Civic Commons. 695 Lincoln Park Boulevard, Kettering | aotc.ketteringoh.org

The 26th Annual Art on the Commons is

august calendar a one-day juried display and sale of fine arts and fine crafts from over one hundred artists from Ohio and surrounding states. At this event, you’ll find booths featuring every kind of artwork: photography, pottery, fine jewelry, paintings, woodworking, prints, watercolors, fibers, basketry, glass and much more.

1940s Weekend at the Cincinnati Museum Center

Price: Free for members; ticket prices vary | Phone: (513) 287-7000 | Location: Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati | www.cincymuseum. org/events/1940s-weekend

Travel back in time and help us celebrate this pivotal decade at Union Terminal during 1940s Weekend. Put on your dancing shoes and experience live history with big band music, a classic car show, 1940s film screenings, educational activities and historical displays.

Most importantly, marvel at the largest artifact in our collection, Union Terminal.

Try Family Camping

Price: $50 per family (up to five people) | Phone: (937) 277-4374 | Location: Germantown MetroPark: Shelter: Morning Glory. 6910 Boomershine Rd., Germantown | www.metroparks.org/GetOutside/SearchByInterest. aspx

Get hands-on and learn basic outdoor skills to help you have successful camping experiences with your kids. We’ll cover everything from setting up camp to outdoor cooking. Enjoy a night hike, campfire program and watch the night sky light up during the Perseid Meteor Shower.

WEDNESDAY | 13 Twilight Concert: Dayton Area Harp Ensemble

Price: $8 for adult non-members, and $5 for senior and student non-members Youth and children 17 and under are admitted free | Phone: 937-512-0152 | Location: NCR Renaissance Auditorium. 456 Belmonte Park North, Dayton | www.daytonartinstitute.org/eventsactivities/musicconcerts/twilight-concerts

The Dayton Art Institute’s Twilight Concerts series offers summer concerts featuring Dayton’s favorite performers, as well as new local talent!.

FRIDAY | 15

Dayton Dragons vs.

Bowling Green

Price: varies | Phone: 937-228-2287 | Location: Fifth Third Field. 220 North Patterson Blvd., Dayton | www.milb.com/schedule/index. jsp?sid=t459&m=8&y=2014

Special Promotion: ZOOperstars! Come on out to Fifth Third Field and catch a special entertainment act during the game from the ZOOperstars!

Columbus Food Truck Festival

Price: free | Location: Columbus Commons.

160 High Street, Columbus | www.columbusfoodtruckfest.com

The Columbus Food Truck Festival is back this summer bigger and better than ever!! The Columbus Food Truck Festival is a two-day event featuring over 60 of the best Food Trucks in Ohio, entertainment, arts & crafts and family fun for all ages.

SATURDAY | 16

5K Chocolate Party Dayton

Price: $30 registration fee | Location: Eastwood Metropark. 1385 Harshman Rd., Dayton | www.5kchocolateparty.com

Run. Eat. Chocolate. What more could you want? Event starts with timed 5k run, complete with chocolate treats along the course. Join us afterwards for chocolate confections galore, live music, and a chocolate slip-n-slide!.

Doggie Dash n’ Splash Fest

Price: free; $5.00 parking donation suggested | Phone: 937-372-8621 | Location: Fairgrounds Recreation Center. 210 Fairground Rd., Xenia | www.daytonlocal.com/events/doggie-dash-nsplash-fest.asp

Greene County Parks & Trails brings you the annual Doggie Dash n’ Splash Fest - a community-wide celebration of our favorite four-legged friends. The Doggie Dash ‘n Splash Fest features fun canine shenanigans including: Canine Sprayground and Puppy Pools, Herding Demonstrations, Dog Demonstrations, and a Silent Auction.

Hispanic Heritage Festival

Price: free | Phone: (937) 274-0126 | Location: RiverScape MetroPark: RiverScape Pavilion.

111 E. Monument Ave., Dayton | www.daytonlocal.com/things-to-do/hispanic-heritage-festival.asp

The exciting Hispanic Heritage Festival is back with hot Latin Music and spicy, delicious Latin Food. The sounds of Salsa, Merengue, Mexico, Latin Jazz, Cumbia, and Bachata music will come alive in the biggest ‘FIESTA’ in downtown Dayton!.

SUNDAY | 17 Bacon Fest 2014

Price: free | Location: Fraze Pavilion. 695 Lincoln Park Boulevard, Kettering | www.fraze. com/bacon-fest-2014/

Savor the flavor of breakfast’s favorite side item - the greatest food on planet Earth - BACON. Whether you’re in the crispy bacon or chewy bacon camp, you’ll love this NEW & IMPROVED summer festival, which features more restaurants, a better booth layout, a lineup of free music on the Fraze stage and pay-as-you-go at each restaurant’s booth.

Fairborn Sweet Corn Festival

Price: free | Phone: (937) 754-3090 | Location: Community Park. 691 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd, Fairborn | www.daytonlocal.com/ things-to-do/fairborn-sweet-corn-festival-infairborn.asp

There will be approximately 180 handmade arts and crafts booths and food vendors. You can enjoy the favorites such as steamed cooked sweet corn, pork chop sandwiches, and fresh cut watermelon. There will be art and crafts for everyone including candles, wood items, jewelry, watercolor and oil paintings, and much more. Activities for children including a train ride, pony rides, and the Big Bounce.

WEDNESDAY | 20

Twilight Concert: David Wion and Friends, The Music of Broadway and More

Price: $8 for adult non-members, and $5 for senior and student non-members. Youth and children 17 and under are admitted free | Phone: 937-512-0152 | Location: NCR Renaissance Auditorium. 456 Belmonte Park North, Dayton | www.daytonartinstitute.org/eventsactivities/musicconcerts/twilight-concerts

happens on the 4th Saturday of every month during the summer, starting in June and ending in September. Enjoy the ambiance of the park and river as you stroll and view classic cars. Make sure you grab some dinner or snacks at a downtown restaurant!.

The Lebanese Festival

Phone: 937-428-0372 | Location: St Ignatius of Antioch Maronite Catholic Church. 5915 Springboro Pike, Dayton | www.thelebanesefestival.com/

The 21st Lebanese Festival features Middle Eastern dancing and entertainment, cultural displays, crafts booths, an array of authentic Lebanese cuisine, and amusement rides for all ages.

SUNDAY | 24

Clodbuster Base Ball

Price: free | Phone: (937) 293-2841 | Location: Carillon Historical Park. 1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton | www.daytonhistory.org/event/event-registration/?regevent_ action=register&event_id=474

Root for the home team! Join us for a true gentleman’s game. See Dayton’s 1860s baseball team play against other period baseball teams.

The Dayton Art Institute’s Twilight Concerts series offers summer concerts featuring Dayton’s favorite performers, as well as new local talent!.

Deeds Carillon Concerts

THURSDAY | 21

Join us for free, family-friendly concerts located at Deeds Carillon throughout 2014. Award-winning musician and past President of the Guild of Carillonneurs in North America, Dr. Larry Weinstein, will perform each original concert.

The Generations Big Band

Price: $5 | Phone: (937) 732-5173 | Location: Jazz Central. 2931 E 3rd St., Dayton | www. jazzcentraldayton.com/

Every third Thursday, bring the kids to listen to big band music. Parking available, and catered food by The Next Level Service.

FRIDAY | 22

Alice in Wonderland

Price: varies | Phone: 937-433-8957 | Location: Town Hall Theatre. 27 N. Main Street, Centerville | www.washingtontwp.org/recreation/ theatre/productions/landmark-theatre/alicein-wonderland

Audiences will be astounded by this theatre company’s imaginative and captivating puppets as they experience this beloved tale as it’s never been told before! All of Lewis Carroll’s unforgettable and madcap characters take the stage as puppets in this visually stunning tour-de-force.

Price: free | Phone: (937) 293-2841 | Location: Carillon Historical Park. 1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton

Sky’s The Limit Memorial 5K Run/Walk

Price: $25 pre-registration before 8/14; $30 after 8/14 | Location: Bell Creek Intermediate.

3777 Upper Bellbrook Rd., Bellbrook | www. dayton5k.com/5k/events.cfm?id=05563dbf9f82-4318-aa75-07bf6faf95b6

In November 2014, Skylar Kooken and two of her friends were killed in a tragic car accident. This event celebrates the energy and passion that Skylar had for life. ALL proceeds will benefit The Skylar Kooken Memorial Scholarship Fund.

For more information, visit: www.iLoveuMore.com.

THURSDAY | 28

Dayton Dragons vs. Lansing

SATURDAY | 23

Price: varies | Phone: 937-228-2287 | Location: Fifth Third Field. 220 North Patterson Blvd., Dayton | www.milb.com/schedule/index. jsp?sid=t459&m=8&y=2014

Price: free | Location: Riverfront Park. 3 N. Miami Avenue, Miamisburg | www.exploremiamisburg.com/cruise-the-burg-3/

The Taste Festival

Cruise the Burg

Miamisburg’s Cruise the Burg event

Price: free | Phone: (937) 296-3300 | Location: Fraze Pavilion. 695 Lincoln Park Boulevard, AUGUST 2014 [ dayton parent ] 33

august calendar Dayton | www.daytonlocal.com/things-to-do/ the-taste-festival.asp

Tired of the same old meatloaf surprise?

Then join us for the 26th Annual The Taste festival! It promises to be a fun evening of good food and entertainment.

The event will be hosted in Lincoln Park Commons. Enjoy samples of delicious food from a variety of local restaurants.

It’s sure to be tastesational!

FRIDAY | 29

1st Annual ‘Boro Bogey Run

Price: $25 before August 15; after August 15 $30 | Location: Heatherwoode Golf Course.

88 Heatherwoode Blvd., Springboro | www. ci.springboro.oh.us/borobogeyrun.html

Run the cart path at Heatherwoode Golf Course! Two courses: one loop around 9-holes, measured at 3.1 miles (5k) and one loop around 18-holes, measured at 5.24 miles. Afterparty includes live enter-

tainment and refreshments.

Labor Day Family Value Weekend

Price: $12 adults (age 12 & over). $6 children (age 11 & under) | Phone: (937) 325-0629 | Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy. 6880 Springfield Xenia Rd, Yellow Springs | www.youngsdairy. com/labor-day-family-value-weekend/

Take advantage of a special value wristband good for all day, unlimited family fun at Young’s this Labor Day Weekend.

Play Udders & Putters miniature golf, batting cages, Cowvin’s Fast Slide, Cowvin’s Corny Maze, Cowvin’s Kiddie Corral, the driving range or Moovers & Shakers.

SATURDAY | 30

The Fair at New Boston

Price: Adults: $8; Children 6-12: $3; Children under 3: free | Phone: 937-882-9216 | Location: George Rogers Clark Park. 936 South Tecum-

seh Road, Springfield. | www.fairatnewboston. org/index.html

Step 200 years back in time at the 30th Annual Fair at New Boston, complete with merchant booths, games, dancing, and entertainment! Everything about this quality event creates the illusion of time travel to 1790-1810.

otic animal exhibits, providing scenery unlike any other venue in town. After the race, children 12 and under can participate in a FREE Cheetah “Cub” Fun Run.

FOR MORE FUN IDEAS, VISIT DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

SUNDAY | 31 Cheetah Run at the Cincinnati Zoo

Price: Registration fee is $35 for Cincinnati Zoo members and $40 for non-members | Phone: (513) 281-4700 | Location: The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati | www.cincinnatizoo.org/events/cheetah-run/

Guests of all ages can join the fun during the 3.1 mile run and walk through the beautiful Cincinnati Zoo. The course will feature the Zoo’s unique gardens and ex-

At Dayton Parent, we work hard to ensure our calendar and guide information is accurate. Occasionally event specifics change after we go to press. Therefore, we encourage our readers to call locations or visit them on the web to verify information.

ongoing events // AUGUST 2014 Cincinnati Under the Sea

(Exhibit runs daily from 6/27-10/26) Price: Free for members; ticket prices vary | Phone: (513) 287-7000 | Location: Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati | www.cincymuseum.org/exhibits/ cincinnati-under-the-sea

About 440 million years ago, most life on Earth existed in the oceans. Back then Cincinnati was underwater, covered by a sea that left the layers of shale and limestone seen alongside local roads today.

Cincinnati Under the Sea shows how regional Ordovician fossils contribute to our understanding of Cincinnati’s natural history—and to our understanding of Earth’s evolution.

Parents Night Out at LeapFrogs Party & Play Center

(Occuring every Friday) Price: $23 per child | Phone: 937-640-3345 | Location: LeapFrogs Party & Play Center. 2109 Lyons Road, Miamisburg | www.leapfrogsplay.com/index.php/ parties-events/parents-night-out

LeapFrogs Party & Play Center’s most popular Special Event for Moms & Dads!

Oh yeah, and the KIDS love it too! Drop the kids off every Friday and enjoy a night out for shopping, dinner, a movie, or just a quiet evening together! The Dayton Mall, Rt. 725 row or the New Austin Landing are all right in our back yard and offer plenty of dinner, shopping, movies or grab a cup of coffee options! We guarantee to wear the kids out with plenty of exercise and fun bouncing, climbing, sliding and playing in our Giant arenas by the time you pick them up! We will even provide the kids dinner and fun-filled ac34 DAYTONPARENTMAGAZINE.COM

tivities! Ages 4-13 welcome; reservations recommended.

Everything Thomas at EnterTRAINment Junction

(Occurring daily from August 1-September 14) Price: Included with Do-It-All Admission | Phone: 513-898-8000 | Location: EnterTRAINment Junction. 7379 Squire Court, West Chester |www.entertrainmentjunction.com/cincinnati_entertainment_and_attractions_calendar

Magical indoor celebration of kids’ favorite Thomas the Train, with several Thomas train layouts, Thomas videos, Thomas scavenger hunt, Thomas coloring and crafts and our indoor kids’ train ride PLUS our hobby shop has the area’s largest selection of Thomas merchandise all 15% to 50% off!

West Carrollton Farmers Market

(Occurring Tuesdays from July through October 21.) Price: free | Phone: 937-847-4634 | Location: West Carrollton Farmers Market. 833 E. Central Ave, West Carrollton | www.daytonlocal.com/specials/west-carrollton-farmers-market.asp

Family-Friendly Farmers Market happening Tuesdays from June 3-October 31.

Vendors include Anderson Brick Oven, Blairquist Speciality Meats, Downing Fruit Farm, Gypsy Chick Farm, Spring Valley Farm, Rib-N-It BarBQ, Rice Family Farms, Tom’s Garden, and more.

Cowvin’s Corny Maze

(Occurring daily from August 2 - October 26) Price: $5.00 per person age 5 and older. Age 4 & under are free! | Phone: 937-325-0629 | Lo-

cation: Young’s Jersey Dairy. 6880 Springfield Xenia Rd, Yellow Springs | youngsdairy.com/ cowvins-corny-maze/

ty Fairgrounds. 800 Sweitzer Street, Greenville | http://darkecountyfair.com/

Cowvin, the baby of the Cow Family, has created a family fun maze at Young’s Jersey Dairy. The maze is created from over 150,000 square feet (more than 3½ acres) of cornfield and has over one mile of paths. Get ready to begin your maze adventure!

The Great Darke County Fair begins each year on the third Friday of August and presently runs 9 days. An average of 250,000 fair goers visit The Great Darke County Fair each year. This event is an annual family tradition that dates back to 1853.

Pony Rides @ Carriage Hill Farm

The Montgomery County Fair

(Occurring Saturdays beginning June 7 through October 25) Price: $5.00 per child | Phone: (937) 278-2609 | Location: Carriage Hill Farm and MetroPark. 7800 E. Shull Road, Dayton | www.daytonlocal.com/things-to-do/ponyrides-at-carriage-hill-farm.asp

Hand-led pony rides, for youngsters ages 2 - 8, are offered on Saturdays only beginning June 7 through October 25, 2014 from 12:00 noon until 3:30. Don’t forget your camera!

Champaign County Fair

(Occurring Friday, August 1 - Friday, August 8) Price: Daily admission: $7.00 | Phone: 937653-2640 | Location: Champaign County Fairgrounds. 384 Park Avenue, Urbana | www. champaigncountyfair.com/

Come celebrate the Champaign County Fair in Urbana, Ohio! Live Entertainment, Tractor Pull, Demolition Derby, Rides, Food Vendors, and More!

Darke County Fair

(Occurring Friday, August 15 - Saturday, August 23) Price: $6.00 per person 12 and older | Phone: (937) 548-5044 | Location: Darke Coun-

(Occurring August 27-September 1) Phone: (937) 224-1619 | Location: Montgomery County Fairgrounds. 1043 South Main Street, Dayton | www.daytonlocal.com/things-to-do/montgomery-county-fair.asp

The 2014 Montgomery County Fair in Dayton, Ohio is Aug. 27- Sept. 1 - We will feature all the fair favorites: harness racing, demolition derby, tractor pulls…fun for the whole family!

Visitor Appreciation Days at The Cincinnati Zoo

(Occurring August 22, 23, and 24) Price: Half price admission and parking; see website for prices | Phone: (513) 281-4700 | Location: The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati | www.cincinnatizoo.org/events/ visitor-appreciation-days/

As a “Thank You” to Hamilton County for their continued support, Zoo visitors of all ages can enjoy half price admission and parking to the world famous Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden during Visitor Appreciation Days.

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