August 2020 | Cincinnati Parent

AUGUST 2020

inside:

swapping schools: When is it a good idea?

+

AFTER SCHOOL & enrichment guide

back -to school

TIPS

(FREE)

contents AUGUST 2020

features

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Back-to-School Tips

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Switching Schools: When is It a Good Idea?

Ease into the new academic year with help from some of the pros.

Tips for making the right choice for your family.

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After School & Enrichment Guide

Keep your child engaged outside of the classroom.

departments In Every Issue

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06 Letter from the Editor 07 Local Kids 08 News & Notes

Resources & Calendars 16 Education Guide 20 Things to Do in August

23 Fun & Wacky Calendar

Around Town 11 Hidden Gems: French Park

Sponsored Content 10 Treatment

Reimagined at Child Anxiety Center

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Publisher Mary Wynne Cox mary@cincinnatiparent.com Associate Publisher + Creative Director Katie Clark katie@cincinnatiparent.com

Editor Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@cincinnatiparent.com Account Executives Hannah Mohler hannah@cincinnatiparent.com Trisha Brand trisha@cincinnatiparent.com

Back to School, Pandemic-Style If you would have told me last year that I’d be adding “buy kid-sized masks” to my backto-school list this year, I would have thought you were crazy.

But here we are, starting a new school year, and my back-toschool list is yet another example that 2020 has been a wild ride.

This year’s back-to-school season looks nothing like anyone could have predicted.

As parents, we’ve had to make quick decisions about school that we never thought we would: virtual or in-person? Hybrid or homeschool? I miss the days when the type of back-to-school questions I dealt with were: Should my son wear shorts or pants on the first day of school? Or: Should I pack him a lunch or let him buy lunch at school? Ah, those simpler times before the pandemic.

We are all living in a heightened state of “what if ” and “what next” at the moment. And now that school is back in session, that uncertainty has made its way over into our kids’

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academic lives. I have no idea how this school year is going to play out. I have no idea how — or if — my children will be able to learn the things they need to learn during this stressful and constantly changing time. But I am hoping that, despite this uncertain school year, they will learn some things that might not be on their teacher’s lesson plan, such as accepting challenges with grace. And adopting a growth mindset. And being willing to adapt when plans change. Everyone — including our children — needs to hone these skills, and there isn’t a better time to hone them than right now. I’m sure we’ll get lots of opportunities to practice them throughout the year.

If my children can come out of this year with those skills under their belts, then I’ll consider this a successful school year. I think I’ll add these lessons to my back-to-school list… right under “buy kid-sized masks.”

Production Manager Karen Ring karen@cincinnatiparent.com Community Outreach + Social Media Sarah McCosham sarah@cincinnatiparent.com Digital Publisher Wendy Hasser wendy@cincinnatiparent.com Event Coordinator Brooke Litherland brooke@cincinnatiparent.com Billing billing@cincinnatiparent.com Contributing Writer Haley Paddock Calendar of Events calendar@cincinnatiparent.com

Cincinnati Parent Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2020

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.

say cheese!

LOCAL KIDS Cincy kids have been having lots of fun in the sun! Here are just some of the photos we received that make us glad for this hot summer weather!

Tristan (8) and Eliza (5)

Tavisha (7)

Ahmira (5) and Elizabeth (2) Ryan (4) and Mindy (4)

WANT TO SEE YOUR CUTE KIDS ON THIS PAGE?

Parker (2)

Emily (7)

To celebrate National Grandparents Day on September 13, we want to see photos of grandkids with their grandparents! Email your cutest photos (with first name and age of the child, and the name that the child calls their grandparent) to editor@cincinnatiparent.com, and your photo may appear here!

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NEWS & Notes

Our monthly roundup of news you can use

immerse yourself

in Mayan culture We are so lucky to live near the eponymous Museum Center. This Ohio museum truly puts you there, whether it’s beside Neil Armstrong on the Moon, in the rainforests harvesting cacao beans or deep underground exploring the Earth’s cavernous underworld. This summer, the Cincinnati Museum Center (CMC) invites you to explore ancient Mayan culture in Maya: The Exhibition. Featuring over 300 artifacts, this exhibit shows how Mayan culture lives on today.

Maya: The Exhibition was originally set to open this spring, but was postponed due to COVID-19. After a nearly four-month closure, CMC reopened to the public July 17. Among the steps CMC is taking to keep its guests and staff safe is instituting timed tickets for both general museum admission and featured exhibitions, extensive cleaning protocol, and requiring all guests and staff members to wear masks. Maya: The Exhibition shows just how much this ancient culture has contributed to modern life, and is a wonderful way to sneak in a little history lesson this summer.

DID YOU KNOW? Parents of kids in elementary through high school are projected to spend $789.49 per family on back-to-school shopping, topping a previous record of $696.70 according to an annual survey by the National Retail Federation.

57 million THE NUMBER OF STUDENTS EXPECTED TO ATTEND PUBLIC AND PRIVATE ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS THIS YEAR ACROSS THE COUNTRY. Source: Digest of Education Statistics

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cincymuseum.org/maya

Ohio’s TAX FREE weekend It’s back to school season, and whether your kids are returning full time or resuming remote learning, they’re going to need school supplies. Enter: Ohio’s Tax Free Weekend. For a sixth year in a row, Ohio is offering a weekend-long sales tax holiday in August to help back-to-school shoppers reduce the cost of clothing and school supplies. (In fact, in 2019, a bill was passed to make Ohio’s Tax Holiday a permanent event the first weekend in August each year.) For 2020, the sales tax holiday runs Friday, August 7 at 12 a.m. through Sunday, August 9 at 11:59 p.m. The tax exemption applies to clothing and footwear items that cost $75 or less and to supplies and instructional materials that cost $20 or less.

Be sure to check with your favorite retailers (like Once Upon a Child) for special sales and promotions — for example, last year, many retailers offered sales on school supplies to break below the $20 price point.

tax.ohio.gov/sales_and_use/salestaxholiday/ holidayfaq.aspx

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Treatment Reimagined at Child Anxiety Center

device. Also, as dually licensed school psychologists who are experts in special education law, the Child Anxiety Center conducts comprehensive psychological evaluations and helps parents obtain school-based services and navigate the red tape of 504s and IEPs.”

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health problem affecting our children and adolescents. Still a majority of children are left untreated even though there effective treatments available. According to the Child Mind Institutes Mental Health Report, approximately 30% of children will be affected by anxiety, but only 20% of those affected will receive appropriate care. This is something that Nathan Fite PhD, founder of Child Anxiety Center in Cincinnati, is deeply familiar with.

“This project is personal to me.

I can remember the first time I had a panic attack at 19 years old,” says Fite, who grew up in the suburbs of Cincinnati. “I was walking up a flight of stairs and suddenly felt like I was dying. I had been battling low-grade depression and anxiety for months. I thought I could manage it, but on that day, my body had had enough.”

Dr. Fite was fortunate enough to make it through that low period with the support of his family. However, too many youth don’t, and are left suffering.

“After that experience, I enrolled in an undergraduate psychology program.

Six years later, as I was working on my PhD at University of Cincinnati, the anxiety and depression found me again,” Dr. Fite says. “But this time, it was worse.

This time, my thoughts had become obsessive and my behaviors compulsive. I went from a highfunctioning doctoral student to questioning whether I could carry on, let alone finish my degree.”

He grew desperate to find help that was both accessible and effective. “At that time, a local 30-day residential program would have cost me $50,000,” Dr. Fite says. So, he took matters into his own hands.

Relying on his own expertise in behavioral psychology and ability to parse through research, Dr. Fite created his own personalized treatment plan, recruiting friends and family to help him along the way. That is not the way treatment should work and parents shouldn’t be left to fend for themselves to get their children the help they need. From that experience, the seeds for Child Anxiety Center were planted.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

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“All of the things that I went through with the mental health system — all of the frustrations I had and barriers I went up against: I used those experiences to create a practice that better serves youth and their families,” Dr. Fite says.

Child Anxiety Center offers evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy and medication management for children, adolescents and young adults.

“Our mission is to exceed the expectations that many mental health service providers have neglected,” Dr. Fite says. “That means doing things like providing accountability to parents for treatment outcomes by using progress monitoring data to inform treatment decisions. It also means providing more accessibility and crisis management, meaning that your child can seek and receive help when it’s needed and parents can have the relief of knowing they can access real-time coaching with only a mobile

Treatments can also be adapted to any child’s circumstances. “If a child can’t leave the house, we will go there,” Dr. Fite says. “If the child needs support getting back into school, we will be there. We are also finding innovative ways to integrate technology like virtual reality, biofeedback, and smartwear to make high-quality treatment more engaging and accessible.”

Dr. Fite knows how it feels to stand in the shadow of an anxiety disorder, and is confident that his experience has helped him design the best possible care for every child.

“I also know what it’s like to come out the other side,” Dr. Fite says. “The team at Child Anxiety Center is ready to help you and your child achieve the best possible outcome.”

Child Anxiety Center is currently accepting patients at their primary office in Blue Ash, as well as their satellite offices in Hyde Park and West Chester. For more information, visit childanxietycenter. com.

HIDDEN GEMS

WORDS BY SARAH MCCOSHAM

French Park We’re entering the home stretch of summer, and if you’re looking for a new park to explore, consider French Park. This Cincinnati Park is a true hidden gem; a dreamy natural oasis nestled in Amberley Village.

The park is known for the eponymous French House, which was built in the early 1900s and is a popular venue for weddings and events. The French House stands regally at the end of the park’s driveway, in front of perfectly manicured lawn. Behind the house are rolling hills that beg to be run down, Sound of Music style.

There is a paved path leading down

through in a dreamy way that’s Instagram-worthy. This is the perfect place to creek stomp, as the water is gentle and shallow — perfect for little legs.

For families looking for an adventure on dry land, French Park has incredible hiking trails, including a 3-mile trail that’s perfect for families.

French Park is the perfect place to spend a spring day with your kids; and, at 275 acres, it’s a fantastic place to let your kids run free while practicing safe social distancing.

3012 Section Rd., Amberley Village

cincinnatiparks.com/parksvenues/east/french-park

to a babbling creek that’s covered by a canopy of trees, sunshine peeking

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WORDS BY HALEY PADDOCK

Going back to school can be tough, even in ordinary circumstances — but this has not been another ordinary summer vacation. No one could have prepared for the turn of events that closed out the school year for 2020.

E-learning from home was quite the curveball, and brought with it feelings of confusion and frustration, as well as a longer than normal school break. With the lengthened time away from typical classroom instruction, many parents have been left to wonder how they’ll ever get their kiddos in the back-to-school groove.

We spoke to veteran educators to ask for tips on how to help students prepare for the switch back to a normal school routine. Try some — or all — of these ideas, and make the summerto-school transition a success for your family!

Lauren Guip, M.Ed., is the Montessori Director of Summit Country Day School.

“Social-emotional wellbeing is critical to a child's success as they transition back into a school environment,” Guip says. “It’s important to have an ongoing dialogue with your child about how they are feeling both before school starts and after they are in attendance.”

Guip also suggests helping your child become comfortable with any new procedures that may be in place due to COVID-19. “If your child is

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required to wear a mask at school, spend some time helping them get adjusted to a mask at home, or pick out a mask that they would feel excited about wearing.”

Be Enthusiastic

Raymond C. Kochis is the superintendent of Cincinnati Christian Schools.

Be Patient

Kochis’ advice starts with a good nights sleep.

“Students will need to become accustomed to the routine of getting up early,” he says. “I would suggest that parents begin the gradual adjustment by setting a realistic bedtime two to three weeks before the start of the school year.”

Kochis also stresses the importance of reading over the summer. “The best reading is away from a screen,” he says. “It allows the student to focus on the activity of reading with fewer distractions. Fifteen to 30 minutes a day is an adequate starting point, but the goal is to gradually increase the time to the equivalent of homework from school. Sustained reading enhances the student's language skills, but it will also get him or her used to the time commitment required for daily homework.”

Krista Taylor is the assistant principal at Mercy Montessori.

Taylor understands the new year will be filled with change, and recommends the following ideas:

Regardless of what schedule you are opening under, share with your child in the most optimistic light possible and treat the first day of school like a celebration. Positive energy helps.

Your child hasn’t been in school, or likely adhering to a school schedule since March.

Read back-to-school books to prepare your child. A little TLC goes a long way in easing the stress of those first few weeks.

Remember that teachers have spent much of the summer turning their instructional strategies upside-down to prepare. Give them grace to figure it all out, and remember that this takes time.

Be Prepared

Practice hand-washing a lot! Don’t forget the 20-second rule.

Help your child recognize what 6 feet looks like. Make a game of it. Ask your child to stand 6 feet away from something, and then measure to see how close they actually are. Who can get closest to 6 feet? Do this in various spaces — what does it look like in a small room? A large room? Outside?

Be Aware

On behalf of administrators everywhere, please read the information sent home by your school. There will be a lot communicated, and it may feel overwhelming, but it’s more important than ever that you stay informed and up-to-date.

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WORDS BY SARAH MCCOSHAM

SWITCHING SCHOOLS:

When is It a Good Idea?

TIPS FOR MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOUR FAMILY.

T

he pandemic has brought a host of changes to life as we know it, including to the way schools will run in the fall. For families on the fence about the upcoming school year, know you’re not alone. While there are many reasons for switching schools, the pandemic — and how your child’s school is responding — is most likely topping your list of concerns.

Read on for a preview at the changes students and parents might see when they head back to school this fall, factors to consider when switching schools — and whether that decision is worth the effort.

Why switch?

Bullying, academic boredom or a child who starts to fall in with the “wrong” crowd are all reasons for switching schools. Further complicating matters, COVID-19 is adding extra anxiety for families with school-aged children.

If you’d been thinking of making a change before the pandemic hit, switching from public to private schools could be a great solution, as many private schools offer lower class sizes and more creative learning options. Rich Wilson, head of The Summit Country Day School in Cincinnati, explains: “As an independent school, we are blessed with desirable class ratios, highly-trained faculty and an expansive physical plant. While this pandemic presents challenges, The Summit is in a strong position to respond and will do so in a manner that is consistent with our mission of education to include academic excellence, spiritual growth, character-based leadership and student wellness — both social-emotional and physical.”

Of course, before you make a change, talk to your child about why they are unhappy at their current school and consider how they will adjust to a new environment. If appropriate, talk to your child’s school or district candidly and find out what opportunities may exist within the current structure. There may be a program or school available that families have not considered, especially looking ahead to the upcoming academic year.

School during COVID-19 We’re living in extraordinary times, and frankly, it’s scary. Now for some good news: Right now, parents have an incredible chance to essentially customize their child’s education. If you’ve been unhappy

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with a particular aspect of school or have been considering switching schools, the 2020-21 school year presents an unprecedented opportunity.

In terms of switching to a different schooling structure, the upcoming academic year is full of options that may provide solutions to families looking for a change.

This fall, Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS) will offer a “blended learning” model. For students returning in person, parents can expect fewer children in classes, new safety protocols and regular health checks for students and staff. CPS’s blended model splits students into two groups (a Monday/Tuesday in-person group and a Thursday/ Friday in-person group) and will alternate attending in-person on Wednesdays. When not physically in school, students will utilize remote learning. This is all to maintain social distancing. The district will also offer a digital academy for families who aren’t ready to send the kids back.

This model is in line with most other area districts. For example, parents of children enrolled in Mason City Schools can opt to send their children to classrooms or move to a remote learning program when the school year begins.

Regardless of what parents choose, student safety will be the top priority, says Nancy Berlier, communications director at The Summit Country Day School.

“Among the [safety] practices we will implement will be temperature checks on entry, face coverings, desks facing one direction and distanced, a narrowing of the scope of student contact with each other, elimination of large in-person events and screening of visitors on campus.”

The bottom line Most schools are giving parents the final say in how to approach the upcoming school year — whether it’s continuing remote learning full-time, sending kids to school part-time, or some combination of approaches. Ultimately, the decision is up to you.

In terms of switching schools: You know your kids best. But adding an additional change on top of distance learning, for many kids, might be too much. With all the uncertainty right now, switching schools would certainly be another big adjustment. And if you’ve been thinking of switching schools, using this year as a time for home-based learning and figuring out your next step, might be the best choice.

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CP EDUCATION GUIDE CHILDCARE & PRESCHOOL

MONTESSORI

The Campus at Kids First

Country Hills Montessori

We have FULL DAY Kindergarten!

Located inside the nationally acclaimed Kids First Sports Center, The Campus offers the premier early learning experience for children ages 6 weeks through Kindergarten.

As the only early learning center in the area that makes physical education a top priority, The Campus at Kids First gives your child an academic edge by integrating a world class physical education (including gymnastics, basketball, yoga and soccer!) curriculum in to the daily schedule, at NO additional cost! Our carefully selected and loving teachers utilize a relevance-based curriculum combined with child-directed play to make learning FUN and start each child on their journey to becoming a life-long learner. • 7900 E Kemper

Providing programs for 3 to K. Small, individualized classes with low student-teacher ratios, under the guidance of Montessori certified teachers, in an inter-generational environment. Multiple Locations in Eastgate, Oakley, Harrison and West Chester Ohio and in Ft. Thomas and Union, KY. Visit chmschools.com for all location addresses & phones. •

Chai Tots Early Childhood Center

7131 Plainfield Road, Deer Park, OH 45236, Contact: Christie Sawyer, Phone: 513-697-9021, Email: csawyer@ leavesoflearning.org, little-sprouts.org, Grades: Preschool & Kindergarten, Enrollment: Families choose mornings two to four days per week (T/TH and/or W/F), and/or afternoon sessions on Tuesday and Thursday.

Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, theCampusKF.com, Phone: (513) 629-KIDS, info@theCampusKF.com

Academic excellence via a unique blend of Jewish and Montessori education offering strong academics, stressing life skills, interpersonal relationship skills and nurturing a love for life-long learning.

Individualized curriculum customized for each student, expansive naturally lit rooms, low student ratio. Specials include yoga, music, Hebrew, Spanish, dance, drama, art and Tae Kwon Do. Flexible schedules, before and aftercare, web cams and after-school enrichment available.

Transportation available to/from Mason schools. Limited space - now enrolling! • 7587 Central Parke Blvd.,

Mason, OH 45040, Phone: (513) 234-0600, ChaiTots.com, Ages/Grades: Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Kindergarten (6 weeks-6 years), Enrollment: 60

YMCA of Greater Cincinnati The YMCA of Greater Cincinnati offers state licensed before and after school care at over 85 locations throughout Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. • 1105 Elm Street,

Our goal is to instill a love of learning in each child and to assure a solid grounding in the basics of education that will help each student achieve his potential. We provide an outstanding, experienced staff, low student-teacher ratios, a nurturing, student-centered approach, and on-site before-school and afterschool care. • 8293 Duke Boulevard,

Guardian Angels School Guardian Angels School provides students in preschool through eighth grade with a faith-filled experience focused on academic excellence, whole child education, and attention to each child’s unique learning needs. As a school, we push all of our students to earn their HALO through being Honest, Accountable, and a Leader to Others. • 6539 Beechmont Ave.,

Contact: Susan Schreiber, Owner, Email: susan@chmschools.com, chmschools. com/, Grades: 3 - K

Mason, Ohio 45040, Phone: 513-3987773, Email: info@montacademy.org, montacademy.org/, Ages/Grades: 18 months through 8th grade

Cincinnati 45230, Contact: Mr. Corey Stoops, Principal, Phone: 513-624-3141, gaschool.org, Grades: Preschool Grade 8

Little Sprouts Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten

The New School Montessori

The Summit Country Day School

Little Sprouts Montessori nurtures the natural curiosity and enthusiasm of children, helping them develop a lifetime love of learning. Our goal is to empower children to discover and hone their strengths as they explore the world. We recognize the importance of individualized education, and maintain a 1:6 ratio. •

Mercy Montessori Center Mercy Montessori is Cincinnati's first Catholic Montessori elementary school and provides students with a personalized education. Mercy offers a sliding scale tuition model, in-school swimming instruction starting at age three, and attracts students from over 60 zip codes.

Mercy educates the whole child and develops a strong foundation for learning. • 2335 Grandview Avenue,

Cincinnati, OH 45206, Contact: Amanda Grimm, Admissions Director, Phone: (513) 475-6700 ext. 210, Email: agrimm@ mercymontessori.org, mercymontessori.org, Grades: Preschool - 8th Grade, Enrollment: 296

Cincinnnati, OH 45202, Contact: Trish Kitchell, VP Youth Development, Phone: 513-362-YMCA, Fax: 513-651-3540, Email: tkitchell@MyY.org, MyY.org, Grades: Ages 3-12, Enrollment: Stop by any YMCA of Greater Cincinnati location or check with your local school district.

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Montessori Academy of Cincinnati

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

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

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

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

NON–PUBLIC

Cincinnati Christian Schools CCS has been creating lifelong learners, creative thinkers, passionate disciples, and visionary leaders for over 40 years. Our graduates are welcomed at universities because they’ve become the natural learners and inquisitive students that God created them to be. CCS knows that faith and learning go hand-in-hand.

Outstanding. Proven. • Elementary Campus: 7350 Dixie Hwy, Fairfield, OH, 45014, Junior/Senior High Campus: 7474 Morris Rd., Fairfield, OH, 45011, (513) 892-8500, Contact: Peggy Head, Director of Admissions, Email: peggyhead@ cincinnatichristian.org, cincinnatichristian.org, Grades: PS - 12

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

Full- and half-day Montessori programs for ages 18 months-age 6 begin the academic journey followed by a college-preparatory program (Grades 1-12). The Summit educates students spiritually, academically, physically, socially and artistically while offering the academic excellence and one-on-one guidance of a top-tier Catholic independent school. • 2161 Grandin Road (Hyde Park), Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: 513-8714700, ext. 261, Email: pearl_e@summitcds. org, summitcds.org

SPECIAL NEEDS

Springer School and Center For nearly 50 years, Springer School and Center has empowered students with learning disabilities to lead successful lives. Springer offers a day school for students ages 6-14 and outreach programs and learning disability resources for students, parents and teachers in the Greater Cincinnati area. The Springer Experience. Success Starts Here. •

2121 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: Jill Wieging, Associate Admissions Director, Phone: 513 871-6080 ext. 211, Fax: 513871-6428, Email: jwieging@springer-ld.org, springer-LD. org, Grades: 1 through 8, Enrollment: 200

BE PART OF OUR MONTHLY GUIDE CONTACT

KATIE@CINCINNATIPARENT.COM

* SPONSORED LISTINGS

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after school &

E N R I C H M E N T [ listings]

Gotta Dance Studios

7892 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45255 | (513) 232-9710 | gottadance-studios.com

Convenient, affordable dance classes in Anderson and Mt. Lookout. Our professional staff teaches introductory through advanced levels: ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, pointe, hip hop and more. Non-competitive, safe environment where all students are accepted and challenged to excel – develop technique, self-confidence and performance skills through the art of dance!

YMCA of Greater Cincinnati Multiple locations | myy.org/join

The YMCA of Greater Cincinnati offers programs and activities for all ages, abilities, and stages of life. So what are you waiting for? Start having healthy fun at the Y! Click on the program or activity below to learn more and register!

Cincinnati Boychoir

650 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 | (513) 396-7664 | cincinnatiboychoir.org

Cincinnati Boychoir offers programs in the vocal arts for boys in grades 3-12 from all over the Cincinnati region, with emphasis on artistry, personal growth, community engagement and cultural appreciation. We are planning a full and flexible season that includes virtual and some modified in-person activities. Now scheduling placement auditions.

Cincy Dance Studio

8143 Camargo Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243 | (513) 846-4835 | cincydance.com

Cincy Dance Studio is located in Madeira, OH and attracts dancers from all over the greater Cincinnati area. The atmosphere at Cincy Dance is always welcoming and fun, but class sizes are limited so we can give attention to each dancers technique. We offer two spacious studios for learning along with programs in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Pointe, Hip Hop, Technique and Fitness. Ages 3Adult. The studios are also available for rental for artist to rehearse and host birthday parties.

Cincinnati Youth Choir

1241 Elm Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 | (513) 556-0338 | cincinnatichoir.org

Does your child love to sing? We would like to invite them to be a part of our award-winning choir family. CYC is excited to share our innovative and enriching 28th season with your child! We are now accepting singers ages 7-18 for vocal placement auditions. Register today online!

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* SPONSORED LISTINGS

THINGS TO DO

AUGUST AUGUST PLEASE NOTE DUE TO COVID-19, THESE EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. PLEASE CHECK TO VERIFY EVENTS ARE STILL BEING HELD AS SCHEDULED BEFORE MAKING PLANS TO ATTEND BY CALLING OR VISITING THE BUSINESS OR EVENT WEBSITE.

sat 01 ONCE UPON A CHILD'S BACK TO SCHOOL EVENT

Shop Once Upon a Child's huge selection of fall clothing and apparel! In addition to bargain prices, Once Upon a Child will be giving away a free water bottle with each $50 purchase, and all shoppers can enter a raffle to win a brand-new Chromebook! • Time: All day, Location: All 9 Once Upon a Child Cincinnati/Dayton locations, onceuponachildcincydayton.com

wed 05-sun 09 FREE DAYS IN THE VILLAGE

Visit Heritage Village for FREE and discover the history of Ohio during the 1800s. Several buildings will be open and interpreters in historical clothing will do demonstrations. • Time: Check website, Location: Heritage

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Village, heritagevillagecincinnati.org FREE

thurs 13-sat 15 ALL OHIO BALLOON FEST

This festival offers something for everyone: musical entertainment, food trucks, beverages and vendors, kids’ activities, helicopter rides, plane rides and, weather permitting, lots of beautiful balloons! The All Ohio Balloon Fest is a non-profit event, benefiting people in need here in Union County. This year they will be donating net proceeds to The Hope Center in Marysville. • Time: Check website, Location: The Hope Center in Marysville, allohioballoonfest.com

fri 14 METEOR SHOWER PARTY

Join us for a meteor shower watching party! Get away from light pollution and experience the magic at Pyramid Hill park’s Age of Stone. Bring a private picnic (no outside alcohol) or enjoy our concessions. We will provide a cash bar with a special meteorthemed cocktail, beer, wine, pop and water. Standard admission

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applies: $8/adult, $3/children ages 6-12 and free for members. • Time: 11 pm, Location: Pyramid Hill, pyramidhill.org

PIRATES OF THE OHIO CRUISE

Board the Captain's boat for an afternoon cruise full of fun and games for the entire family. The kids will pick up their free pirate hat and eye patch before boarding this popular cruise on the Ohio River. Get your pirate tattoo or participate in one of our pirate games to see if anyone will have to “walk the plank.” See if you can use your treasure map to collect your bounty before the cruise pulls back into dock. Ever wonder why BB Riverboats flies the Jolly Roger? Listen to the Captain's commentary as you cruise by all of the sights! • Time: 3 pm, Location: BB Riverboats, bbriverboats.com/ cruises/pirates-of-the-ohio-cruise

sat 15 CITY FLEA KIDS MARKET

The City Flea is Cincinnati's original curated, urban flea market that takes place once a month at Washington Park. The Flea is a place to keep your dollars local,

support small business and experience Cincinnati in a unique and engaging way. Each August, the Flea hosts Cincinnati’s smallest makers during their Kids Market! •

Time: 10 am-4 pm, Location: Washington Park, thecityflea.com FREE

WAYNESVILLE STREET FAIRE

The Waynesville Street Faire features 20-25 art and artisan vendors who are setting up in the street to bring, share and talk about the joy of what they artistically create. • Time: 10 am-4 pm, Location: Waynesville Historic District, facebook.com/events/ 331039357840314

fri 21-sun 23 CHARM AT THE FARM

Charm at the Farm Vintage Market is set upon a 56-acre, formerly award-winning, Clydesdale horse farm in quaint Lebanon. The farm has been repurposed and transformed into an enchanting vintage and rustic market full of eclectic and one-of-a-kind treasures. • Time: Check website, Location: 4953 Bunnell Hill Rd in Lebanon, charmatthefarm.com/ events

fri 28 PIRATES OF THE OHIO CRUISE

Board the Captain's boat for an afternoon cruise full of fun and games for the entire family. The kids will pick up their free pirate hat and eye patch before boarding this popular cruise on the Ohio River. Get your pirate tattoo or participate in one of our pirate games to see if anyone will have to “walk the plank.”

See if you can use your treasure map to collect your bounty before the cruise pulls back into dock. Ever wonder why BB Riverboats flies the Jolly Roger? Listen to the Captain's commentary as you cruise by all of the sights! • Time: 3 pm, Location: BB Riverboats, bbriverboats.com/cruises/ pirates-of-the-ohio-cruise

fri 28-sun 30 CINCINNATI CELTIC FESTIVAL

Bring the whole family out for great food, fun activities, live music and more! • Time: Check website, Location:

ONGOING EVENTS EVERYTHING THOMAS AT ENTERTRAINMENT JUNCTION Through Sept. 7

It’s a celebration of Thomas the Train with Thomas-themed train layouts, videos, scavenger hunt, coloring and crafts. • Time: Open daily, Location: Entertrainment Junction, entertrainmentjunction.com

MAYA: THE EXHIBITION Through Jan. 3, 2021

For the first time in the United States, the mysteries of the Maya come to life. Through over 300 artifacts, discover how the Maya live on today — in their inventions that continue to shape our daily lives and in the millions who carry on the Maya tradition in language and lineage. • Time: This is a timed exhibit; check website for times, Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, cincymuseum.org

The Banks, cincycelticfest.com FREE

sat 29 NATURE PAINTING EXTRAVAGANZA AT THE NATURE PLAYSCAPE

Bring your budding artist outdoors for some BIG painting fun! We’ll create large paper paintings while experimenting with natural brushes and paints. Free to members; nonmember adult $9, nonmember child $4. Online tickets purchased for nonmembers include admission.

Nonmember tickets may also be purchased at the gate. • Time: 11 am, Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, cincynature.org

sun 30 GET TO KNOW LONG BRANCH FARM & TRAILS HIKE

This hike is for members who have never visited Long Branch Farm & Trails before. Come check it out!

You'll hear some history, some fun facts and see the natural treasures Long Branch has to offer. Please dress to hike with appropriate footwear and clothing for the weather. Members $5. • Time: 4-5:30 pm, Location: Long Branch Farm, cincynature.org

GROWING A RAINBOW Through Aug. 23

Growing a Rainbow is a reawakening of the Krohn Conservatory to the public. Much like a rainbow shining after a storm, our Summer Show is a bright spot of color after a difficult time. The design features numerous flower beds in the shapes of arches, each with flowers of a specific color. In the center of the room is a long, peaceful water pond for reflection. • Time: Open 10 am-4 pm, Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays), Location: Krohn Conservatory, cincinnatiparks.com/ krohn

SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK Through Sept. 7

CSC provides one of the largest programs for free outdoor Shakespeare in the nation, both in number of stops and the radius of the region visited. Admission to Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s Shakespeare in the Park Tour is free and open to the public. There are no ticket or RSVPs required. Due to COVID-19, the Shakespeare in the Park tour schedule will be announced on a rolling basis. Please check back for updates closer to opening. • Time: Check website, Location: Various outdoor venues around Cincinnati, cincyshakes.com/ shakespeare-in-the-park FREE

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fun and WACKY CINCINNATI PARENT

CALENDAR 08.2020

SUN

MON

TUES

WEDS

THURS

FRI

SAT

1 SANDCASTLE DAY

2 SISTERS DAY

3 WATERMELON DAY

4

5

6 WIGGLE YOUR TOES DAY

ASSISTANCE DOG DAY

8

7

INTERNATIONAL CAT DAY LIGHTHOUSE DAY

BLOGGER DAY

9 RICE PUDDING DAY

10

11

SKYSCRAPER APPRECIATION DAY

PLAY IN THE SAND DAY

17

18

16

12

TELL A JOKE DAY

RIDE THE WIND DAY

23

PLUTO DEMOTED DAY

SLINKY DAY

30

SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com

14

INTERNATIONAL LEFTHANDERS CREAMSICLE DAY DAY

MIDDLE CHILD’S DAY

19 PHOTOGRAPHY DAY

VANILLA CUSTARD DAY

13

20 WORLD MOSQUITO DAY

15 WORLD HONEY BEE DAY

22

21

EAT A PEACH DAY POET’S DAY

day

24

25 BANANA SPLIT DAY

TRAIL MIX DAY

31

26 WOMEN’S EQUALITY DAY

27

28

TUG-OFWAR DAY

BOW TIE DAY

29

LEMON JUICE DAY

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